The Paris Independent News for Saturday November 6th, 2021

ENGAGE BRANT WANTS YOUR INPUT SEE STORY PAGES 4 to 5 FLIP TO PAGE 22 FOR KARON SINNING’S TRAVEL COLUMN

Your Community Newspaper

The Paris Independent Saturday, November 6, 2021

THIS WEEK In News

Proudly Serving Paris & Area

Special Edition

PARIS REMEMBERS

SERVICE CLUBS pages 6-7

In Community

Covid & Churches Pages 16-19 In Sports

SPORTS Page 20

This video was created by Chris Whelan and posted on social media November 10 th, 2020 to help Paris residents commemorate Remembrance Day, virtually, while all of Ontario stayed at home during another Provincial lockdown order. See Pages 8 – 10 for this year’s Ceremonies throughout the County of Brant.

GOT YARD WASTE?

County Offices Closed November 8-12 November 22-26

The Paris Independent

2

November 6, 2021

COMMUNITY CALENDAR **Email theparisindependent@gmail.com with your community calendar suggestion / submission. Help us spread the news! **

Publisher Managing Editor Advertising Sales Photographer Web Designer News Reporter News Reporter

Chris Whelan Casandra Turnbull Chris Whelan Michelle Malvaso Levi Myers Carolina Saenz Bailey Zimmer

STATEMENT We are a non profit organization made up of like minded volunteers from our community with the main purpose of providing our community of Paris and area with a trustworthy and reliable source of community news. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of everything we publish, we regret any errors that may occur. We limit our liability to that of printing a retraction upon notification of such errors in the next available publication. Our mail and Email addresses are listed below:

Published Weekly on Saturday

PO BOX 99900 LA 012 395 STN MAIN PARIS, ON, CANADA N3L 0C3 Email: theparisindependent@gmail.com

The Paris Independent

November 6, 2021

3

COMING EVENTS FOR NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2021 NOVEMBER 2021 Christmas in Paris November 5, 6 & 7.

Friday 1 – 9 pm; Saturday 9:30 – 5pm; Sunday 11 am- 4 pm. All in one location at the Paris Agricultural Society (139 Silver St Paris).

Admission is by donation only with proceeds to support the arts bursaries for high school students in Paris and the County of Brant.

Presented by Kindred Spirits Artisans of Paris.

The No Road Back Music Festival at the Paris Legion. Full day of live music to raise funds for the Cancer Society. Hosted by Jim Young. 12:30 PM to 7:00 PM www.parislegion29.ca Kiwanis Breakfast With Santa November 27th at St. James Parish Hall

St. Paul's United Church Presents its Season Bazaar /Craft Show on Sunday, November 6 from 9 am to 2 pm at 48 Broadway St E. Covid 19 protocols including vaccination passport (including id) and masks will be followed. Hand sanitizer will be provided.

Trivia Night! Thursday November 11th, 18th from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Test your knowledge.

Sign up at https://brantlibrary.evanced.info/signup

Remembrance Day Ceremony Paris Cenotaph Thursday November 11th, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM www.parislegion29.ca Jingle Bell Market Thurs., Fri., Sat., November 18th to 20th Downtown Paris Time Thurs./Fri., 10AM to 9PM and Saturday 10AM to 4PM

Paris Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Friday November 19th at 7:00PM Downtown Cobblestone Commons – Donations appreciated

DECEMBER 2021

Drive Thru Christmas Displays at the Paris Fairgrounds December 4th

http://www.parisfairgrounds.com/

The Paris Independent

4

November 6, 2021

C O U NTY N EWS ENGAGE BRANT WANTS YOUR INPUT

By Casandra Turnbull The County of Brant is using a new interactive platform to reach citizens and gather input into projects affecting their communities. EngageBrant launched in January 2021, and it aimed to effectively engage residents. The birth of the project came during a time where in-person community meetings, often used to gather valuable public feedback, was no longer an option.

“Once the pandemic became a reality and inperson meetings were not permitted, effective virtual engagement quickly became an even greater priority,” said Melissa Connor, Director of Communications and Public Relations for The County of Brant.

County staff turned to Bang the Table, a company that paves the way for digital engagement. It’s a virtual consultation company that’s ‘passionate about helping

public leaders forge meaningful connections with their community.’ Other surrounding municipalities have also utilized the engagement company’s expertise.

“EngageBrant offers a platform where citizens can access information about projects happening in Brant and encourages citizens to offer their insights and opinions, outline their concerns and/or voice their support,” said Connor. It offers several simple and effective engagement tools that the county uses to solicit citizens’ feedback. Citizens can register to attend virtual public meetings – and the convenience with virtual meetings is if you can’t make the live session, you can watch it later at your own leisure.

Residents not so comfortable with technology can still participate in shaping their community. The County has already mailed out literature and moving into 2022 they plan to increase the mail outs to reach even more citizens, allowing them to provide important feedback.

Continued on Page 5

Market Street in Paris - Reconstruction

The Paris Independent

5

November 6, 2021

REVIEW PROJECTS, FORUMS, VIDEOS ONLINE Continued from Page 4 So how does the EngageBrant work? Connor explained “When a project requires input and engagement from the County’s residents, we prepare the project on EngageBrant. We prepare the content so it is easy to understand (as some projects are very technical in nature).

Preparing the project page also includes choosing the most suitable engagement tools.

These may include a survey, quick poll, forum, question and answers, ideas/concept sharing, comments and/or plotting on a map.”

Recognizing that videos often catch a viewer’s eye, EngageBrant aims to provide a short video for most projects to help boost engagement and interest. They also utilize local media to help spread the word.

Once feedback is collected, staff review the information and bring forward trends, ideas, and other comments to help shape the final recommendations and reports, said Connor.

Current projects of interest in Paris include the Market Street Reconstruction, Mile Hill Meadows Park, the Paris Flood Mitigation, Barker’s Bush Trails Master Plan, the Master Transportation Plan and the Cedar Street Road construction and stormwater management.

Long-term projects affecting the quality of life of its residents include the New Master Plan, the Age Friendly Community Plan and the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.

When you click on a specific project, you get an overview of the project,- and information about the individual leading the project, you can review feedback submitted by likeminded citizens, you can provide your own feedback, or you watch a short video on the project. All documentation from meetings is posted, as well as a timeline indicating how far the project has progressed.

“EngageBrant, by design, is intuitive to navigate,” said Connor, who added that its convenience has bolstered community participation in virtual public meetings.

Between January 18 to November 1, EngageBrant has received a total 9,440 total visits and 6,400 people have visited at least one project page. There are a total of 808 registrants and 408 people have engaged in a survey or forum. The most popular website tools are the ‘ideas, survey and guest book,’ pages.

The top three projects based on engagement include the AgeFriendly Community Plan, the New Official Plan and the

Transportation Master Plan.

One of the first engagements launched in February was the Age-Friendly Community Plan.

Hard copy flyers were mailed to residents throughout the County of Brant and the surveys were available online as well. Over 700 individuals provided input and the results were compiled into a Stakeholder Consultation Workbook that was reviewed by all relevant departments and community organizations for further feedback.

“Age-Friendly Communities are organized around eight domains, as established by the World Health Organization,” explained Connor. “Through engagement and within these domains, the County of Brant identified 66 objectives to improve the quality of life for older adults (specifically those aged 55 and over).”

To learn more about projects affecting you, or to register to become involved and provide your feedback, please visit https://engagebrant.ca

The Paris Independent

6

November 6, 2021

SERVICE CLUBS SATELLITE ROTARY CLUB TO LAUNCH IN PARIS

By Carolina Saenz Attention Parisians! A satellite rotary club is coming to Paris! Aware of the importance of community service clubs, new Paris resident Dale Hall is determined to bring the benefits of a satellite rotary club home. A Rotarian for 5 years, Hall served as president of the Niagara Sunrise Rotary Club and has been involved in the Brantford Sunrise Rotary Club since moving to the area. Moving to Paris in July 2021, Hall quickly recognized the need for more than a traditional Rotary Club in the city.

“When I look at the future of Rotary, I think it is a different type of meeting.

So, when my wife and I moved here we agreed to open a Rotary Club in Paris with the new satellite model,” says Hall.

The Rotary Satellite Club of Paris will be sponsored by the Brantford Sunrise Rotary Club and operate as its extension. As Hall explains, the satellite model “Is essentially a Rotary Club for the 21st century.” As opposed to the

traditional model, a satellite model aims to be more inclusive of all members of the community.

Back in the 90s and earlier, rotary clubs were mostly popular for men and business professionals. This new model caters to the next generation of Canadians. “Rotary has made it a mandate to really push towards having more diversity, more equity and more inclusion in Rotary as a whole,” explains Hall.

“We want family units to feel welcome to come to meetings and projects together. I think all families are looking for more things to do in a cost-effective manner, so what a better thing to do than help out in the community,” adds Hall.

Furthermore, the satellite club will aim to be more action and service oriented by meeting once every 3 to 4 weeks but still participating in a good number of projects. This will cater better to busy families and open the rotary club experience to more members of the community.

The exact plans, of course, will be dictated by the members who will create the identity and image of the club. One of the main goals of the satellite club will be to help and work alongside existing community service organizations to serve the needs of the Paris community and all of Brant County.

Continued on Page 7

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER HONOURED

Paris Optimist Past President Larry Crawley presents Marilyn McCulloch with The President’s Citation for Outstanding Optimist Club Member 2020 – 2021. The award is bestowed upon an individual who demonstrates exceptional dedication, care and love of the Club, Club Members, District, and Optimist International.

Photo Courtesy of Paris Optimist Club

The Paris Independent

7

PARIS OPTIMIST CLUB INDUCTS 2021 – 2022 EXECUTIVE

November 6, 2021

The new executive for the Paris Optimist Club was inducted recently

by Governor Gail Dolson. Left to right are Grant Brooker (board member); Helen Shipp (board member); Lynda Kelley (board member); Marilyn McCulloch (secretary); Gerry Shipp (board member) and Larry Crawley (past president); Back row, Julie Henwood (President). Absent: Andrea Wicks-Cherry (treasurer); Lesley Brown (board member); Bob Nelson (first vice president); Mel Osborne (board member).

Submitted by the Paris Optimist Club

NEW SERVICE CLUB PROMOTES ENGAGEMENT Continued from Page 6 Potential locations for meetings will aim to support a variety of local businesses intermittently. Regardless of what the future brings, rotary clubs have a history of finding ways to adapt and support the community. Even through Covid times, rotary clubs remain active through online meetings, The Niagara Falls Club even having nonagenarians join via zoom!

The Rotary Satellite Club of Paris will be hosting an information session the last week of November. Attendees will go through an application process to ensure Rotary is a good fit for them. The first-year membership fee is $99 directed to Rotary International, which in turn provides benefits such as event insurance to the local club. And depending on membership

numbers, the satellite club is expected to begin sometime in the spring of 2022.

With the growth Paris is experiencing, there is no better time for projects such as this one to contribute to the community. “Paris is a beautiful town and there is a lot of growth within the community. And growth can also bring a lack of familiarity with your neighbours. So, what used to be a small tight-knit community has grown, and to keep it tight-knit we need to engage with our neighbours. And I really hope Rotary will be a way for new and longstanding members of the community to come together and get to know each other,” concludes Hall. For more information, please contact Dale Hall at dalejhall@yahoo.ca

Paris Remembers

8

November 6, 2021

PAR I S R E M E M B E R S LOCAL POPPY CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY

By Casandra Turnbull Members Paris Legion’s Poppy Committee will be busy over the next few weeks with the official launch of the Poppy Campaign on October 29th.

Poppy Chair Earl MacDonald, along with Rick Cudmore, Charlotte Cudmore, Stephen Scheal and Don Macleod, have dropped off boxes at various locations throughout town. Over the course of the next few weeks, they will be busy collecting and counting donations. Rolling all the loose coin before taking it to the bank can be a daunting task, which is why it takes approximately a dozen people providing all hands-on deck, said MacDonald.

In 2021, The Royal Canadian Legion commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Poppy, Canada’s lasting symbol of Remembrance. The idea for the Remembrance Poppy in Canada was conceived by madame Anna Guerin of France. She was inspired by John McCrae’s poem ‘In Flanders Fields.’

In Paris, the Poppy campaign raised $24,114.72 in 2020, which was higher than the previous year’s count, said MacDonald. This year’s goal is to raise more than last year, of course.

A portion of the funds raised locally goes back into the community. In previous years, the Paris Legion has donated to the Willett Urgent Care for a cardiac machine an ultrasound machine.

The committee ultimately decides how to donate locally. Some of the funds go back to the Ontario Command to support various programs for veterans: Operation Leave the Streets Behind in support of homeless veterans, programs for mental health and PTSD, support for families and seniors, adjusting to civilian life and much more.

Covid has changed the format of the campaign.

Rather than have veterans and legion members canvassing for donations in various businesses, residents will instead see boxes in visible locations for donations. This is in effort to keep everyone safe, said MacDonald. Even though members aren’t physically standing there to collect donations, they are busy running back and forth emptying boxes, he added. He has chaired the committee for approximately four years. He joined Branch 29 Legion six years ago when he moved to Paris. He was a member at both the Wainwright, Alberta Branch, and a Kingston Branch before moving here.

MacDonald joined the Armed Forces in 1966 as a Supply Tech by trade and rose through the ranks to Chief Borne Officer. He served on many bases and air forces throughout his career, including two United Nations tours. He attempted retirement in 1999, but ended up returning to the Armed Forces in various capacities for another 16 years before officially retiring.

Anyone wishing to donate can do so at a participating business, as well as by cheque or cash at the Paris Legion located at 70 William Street. Donations of $5 or more are eligible for an income tax receipt so be sure to include your full name and mailing address on the donation envelope.

You can also support the campaign virtually by downloading a digital Poppy at https://www.mypoppy.ca between now and November 11th.

Paris Remembers

9

November 6, 2021

IN-PERSON REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONIES RESUME

By Casandra Turnbull The Paris Remembrance Day Service will proceed in person at the Cenotaph this year – with a few changes to its normal proceedings.

Last year’s service was held virtually, like most services across the country.

“It was the first time I was not (physically) at a service,” recalled Andy Moran, President of Branch 29.

“We were only allowed to have a certain number of people so we had to be careful.”

This year’s ceremony, beginning at 10:55 a.m. will be officiated by Padre Mario Hryiewicz. All personal wreaths will be laid in advance by the Remembrance Day Committee members, said Moran. In addition, the following are the variations from the regular proceedings.

The regular colour guard parade, marching from Broadway Street to the cenotaph, is not planned for this year. There will be controlled access to the Cenotaph. Only people directly involved in the ceremony will be allowed on the property to limit attendance numbers and ensure proper physical distancing. Despite these modifications, members of the Paris Legion are happy they will be able to attend the service this year.

The service will also be live-streamed on YouTube and Facebook.

In other areas of the County of Brant, The Burford, Cathcart, and Harley Branch 543 will host a colour parade and service starting at 10:45 a.m. at the Burford Legion on Park Avenue.

Paris Legion President Andy Moran and Poppy Campaign Chair Earl Macdonald.

The St. George Legion Branch 605 will have its ceremony at the Cenotaph at 10:45, followed by a community luncheon at the Legion.

Weather permitting, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum will fly vintage airplanes, including the Lancaster in area skies around 11:15 a.m. People are encouraged to ‘Look Up and Remember.’

Finally, the Brant County War Memorial, located on corner of Dalhousie Street and Brant Ave in Brantford, invites residents to drive-by to view the Overnight Lighting Display from Wednesday, November 10 at 6 p.m. to Thursday, November 11 at 7 a.m.

Paris Remembers

10

November 6, 2021

HONOURING PARISIANS WHO MADE THE SUPREME SACRIFICE

By Casandra Turnbull Two new stones were erected at the Paris Cenotaph in 2018 in memory of Paris Veterans who were killed or died during the First and Second World War. The project was a joint effort between The County of Brant Heritage Committee and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 29 Paris. Public input was sought to confirm the names and spelling of names of the war dead. The Great War Centenary Association conducted extensive research, led by Geoffrey Moyer, Meghan

Cameron and Andrew Iarocci. The project was a lifelong dream of residents Jack Allison, Ted Finn and Ken Sinclair. Approximately $20,000 in community donations went towards repairs to the existing monuments at the Cenotaph. Brian McIsaac, owner of Ingham Monuments in Brantford, donated the cost of the stones and the time to redesign and install the new ones.

“It was a tremendous project. There was a lot of research involved with people reaching out from all over the place,” said Andy Moran, President of the Paris Branch 29 Legion.

Installed in 2018, these two monuments honour men and women who made the supreme sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars.

Photos by Michelle Malvaso

Paris Remembers

11

November 6, 2021

Paris Past By Chris Whelan

Photo of eight men standing in front of the Paris War Memorial during the 11 November 1930 dedication ceremony. Photograph is captioned "Dignitaries at the dedication of the Memorial, 1930. L. to R.: Allan Scott; Kenneth Robinson; Rev. Wm. McConnell; Rev. J.A. Wilson; Captain Cox, rector of Anglican Church; Franklin Smoke, K.C.; Salvation Army officer; Mayor Isaac Stewart." The boy on the right is Gordon Parsons, who donated the original snapshot to the Paris Museum and Historical Society.

Lifelong Paris resident, Herbert Thomas Gill, or 'Bert' pictured in his service uniform. He was overseas in WWII where he was wounded and medically discharged from service.

Gill passed away December 6th 1984

Paris Remembers

November 6, 2021

12

The Paris Independent asked a local school to contribute to Paris Remembers by answering this question “What Does Remembrance Day Mean To Them?”

Here are the replies from Mrs. Stewart’s Grade 2/3 Class at Paris Central School: To me, Remembrance Day means there is no war going on and it’s a time to remember the soldiers that fought for freedom.

Jonah S. Remembrance Day means we remember the children and the grown ups that died in the wars.

Skylar B. Remembrance Day means peace and quiet and caring.

We remember the people that fought to give us peace that we have today.

Arlie B. Remembrance Day means that we all take some time to think about what we are thankful for. We all think about the people who suffered and to remember how they were all kind.

Ayla B. Remembrance Day is sad and serious. Remembrance Day is a time to remember the soldiers who sacrificed their selves to bring peace. We all have to be thankful for the ones who sacrificed their selves.

Noah S.

Remembrance Day means peace and quiet and it’s a time to remember. It is sad and it means freedom.

We are thankful for the soldiers. We wear poppies to support Canadian Veterans.

Nash A-P Remembrance Day is a time to think about the people who sacrificed for peace. I care for the people.

Tayden H. Remembrance Day means peace and love. Remembrance Day means poppies and love.

Remembrance day means freedom and love.

Elsa O. Remembrance Day means no wars like many years ago and freedom like today. It is also a day for me to remember.

Nash G. Remembrance Day means there shouldn’t be war and it’s a time to remember all the people who died to let us live. Your mom and your dad, they might have been in it.

River H-Z Remembrance Day is sad. It was so sad. I cried. Lincoln B.

Remembrance Day means peace and quiet. A time to think about all the people that died in the world wars .

Benson S. To me Remembrance Day is a time to think about those who sacrificed. It is a chance to think and appreciate.

Corbin W. Remembrance Day means you should wear a poppy. A time to remember about the people who died in the war.

Kai M-H. Remembrance Day is a time to be thankful and proud. This is a chance to think about freedom in Canada.

Haylie M. Remembrance Day means caring for people. We love all of the soldiers. I love love the soldiers.

Felix C. Freedom. Peace. Country.

Freedom is no wars. Peace means life. Our country is a safe place to live. To me Remembrance Day is sad.

Eli Y.

Paris Remembers

13

November 6, 2021

Top Left: Plaque at PDHS commemorating former pupils that fought in the Great War WW1. Left & Right: Is the list of the names of those from Paris that perished. It is displayed in the County of Brant Council Chambers.

This plaque is dedicated to William Arthur Moyle. Born in 1894, William worked on his family's farm until he enlisted on March 6th, 1916 (21 at the time of enlistment). He served with the Royal Naval Air Service's No. 3 Naval Squadron. William died in 1918 at St. Quentin. He is buried at the Arras Memorial, Pas De Calais, France. The plaque is located on the place of his birth, The Moyle School, now the Olde School Restaurant.

Paris Remembers

14

November 6, 2021

Three black and white photographs depicting the Remembrance .

Day ceremony in Paris, Ontario, on 11 November 1981 PHOTO 1: A crowd of children and adults standing at the corner of Grand River Street North and Mechanic Street in Paris, Ontario, facing towards the Paris Cenotaph. There are two rows of people: one standing on the sidewalk, and another standing in the middle of the street, presumably so the military parade could pass through. Identifiable businesses on Grand River Street North includes the coffee cup, an empty store, McCormicks, H&R BLOCK The Income Tax People, and a clothing store. Photo: County of Brant Public Library Digital Collection.

PHOTO 2: Crowds gathered on the sidewalks surrounding the Paris Cenotaph, and military personnel lined along the sidewalk leading towards the monument. A portion of the cenotaph can be seen in the right background of the image, as well as cars, a light-coloured building, and a billboard. Photo: County of Brant Public Library Digital Collection.

PHOTO 3: A view of the military personnel and civilian crowds, taken in front of the cenotaph looking towards Mechanic Street.

There is a woman in the foreground wearing a dark knee-length coat, a hat, and her hair in a bun, facing away from the camera. She is presumably giving a speech. There are six flag bearers on the left holding a Union Jack, Royal Canadian Legion flags, and a Canadian flag. On the right are veterans and military servicepersons in uniform, with a wreath standing on the ground in front. In the background is the light-coloured Tough & Son Hardware and Plumbing building with a large sign on the side. County of Brant Public Library Digital Collection.

Paris Remembers

15

November 6, 2021

The Paris Independent

16

November 6, 2021

COVID&CHURCHES PARIS CHURCHES ADJUST TO VIRTUAL SERVICES

By Carolina Saenz Finding resilience through faith and creativity during unthinkable times call for unthinkable measures.

As The Paris Independent continues its quest to explore the effects of Covid on local businesses and organizations, The Independent turns its attention to local churches.

Located in different areas of the city and showcasing a variety of methodologies, these churches serve as an example of resilience in the Paris community.

Regardless of Covid restrictions, regulations, and even lockdowns it is safe to say these churches are thriving.

Sojourn Church Located on Scott Avenue in the north of Paris, Sojourn Church is inspiring. Looking beyond the inconveniences Covid has caused, Lead Pastor Jay Grimes explains how his church has adapted. Although it has not been an easy process, the Sojourn community has stepped up to the challenges faced.

“As followers of Jesus we are servants. We serve Him by serving others. And so, within every crisis throughout history the church has always been

running to the fire rather than away from the fire”, says Grimes. By staying active within the community even beyond the physical building of the church, Sojourn members volunteered and served those in need.

Some of the major adjustments included having to move towards an online approach by prerecording the service and eventually offering live streaming. And while Grimes does not see a future where the church is solely online, he admits that online streaming is here to stay. It makes service accessible to those who cannot physically come to church, and it also allows for the church to have an online presence. It will never replace being able to gather and meet in person, but it certainly makes one rethink what we have taken for granted.

Another innovation at the church moving the service from the auditorium to the gym. By setting up a worship space at the gym, the church is now able to safely accommodate 150 people as opposed to only 50 to 60.

Grimes emphasizes the importance of being compliant and adhering to regulations,

Sojourn Church Pastor Jay Grimes

while also admitting these were not always straightforward. The lack of clarity from the government was the most inconvenient part of this process but through patience and perseverance, Sojourn remains strong. In fact, Grimes notes an increase in members and credits this in part to Covid. Inspiring people to find something bigger than themselves, in their search for Jesus and to get their questions answered, many new faces have found Sojourn. And as a welcoming community, Grimes has just this message to share: “We’re open. We’d love for people to come.”

Continued on Page 17

The Paris Independent

17

November 6, 2021

CHURCH COMMUNITY BONDS STRENGTHEN Continued from Page 16

Cedarview

Church

Moving on to the Rest Acres Road area of town, Cedarview Church is located right on Cedar Street.

Boasting impressive and immaculately maintained facilities, Cedarview is as welcoming as it is creative. Lead Pastor Wendy Payne is undoubtedly proud of the church. She explains that adjusting to Covid times was a bit of a struggle but by thinking outside of the box, Cedarview has adapted well.

Similar to other churches in the community, Cedarview moved towards an online approach during lockdown.

And what started as a live stream directly from Payne’s cellphone, has turned into a much more organized and professional production. With the loving help of volunteers and a creative eye to stay within budget, Cedarview managed to bring the church to home. This has become especially important for seniors and other members of the community who are still

not ready to come back to the building.

“They can have church at home and still feel connected,” says Payne.

So online streaming, once again, is here to stay. Having chairs instead of traditional pews has also been an advantage, as it has allowed the church to safely distance people. Moreover, by rewiring the church’s sound system and setting up televisions in overflow rooms, Cedarview has been able to accommodate its congregation.

Finding ways to be together while still complying with regulations, has required lots of creativity.

“Air high-fives” have become the new norm, replacing handshakes, and adding humour along the way. But more importantly, allowing members to still bond and experience human connections. “We’ve become more intentional on checking in on people”, says Payne.

Due to Covid, the church has become more conscious of one another. If a member has not heard from or seen someone,

Cedarview Church Lead Pastor Wendy Payne says Covid has strengthened the human connection.

they reach out. “We’ve been separated but I can see it bringing us closer together because we are more aware of the loneliness that can happen through Covid,” Payne further explains. Reaching out to the Paris community has also been a priority. With events such as last year’s Halloween scavenger hunt, which was a fully outdoor drive-through event, as well as running a food bank and partnering with local businesses to provide gift cards to bless teachers, staff at healthcare centres and fire halls, Cedarview strives to deliver a message of love and support to the community.

“We are a welcoming church. I am mama bear proud of my congregation. When people come, we are welcoming. No matter who you are, no matter what your demographic is, you are welcome here,” says Payne.

Continued on Page 18

The Paris Independent

18

November 6, 2021

St. James Anglican Church community, especially for the James include an emergency Moving to another area of Paris, on Burwell Street, historically stunning church is found. The St. James Anglican Church exhibits an exquisite display of architecture, true to Paris. Over 185 years old, the church building has been wellmaintained, and an addition carefully added, maintaining the beautiful cobblestone so important to Paris’ history.

Father Jason Postma explains that St. James continues to adapt and anticipate the changes Covid brings. Managing directions from the province, the health unit, and The Bishop has not been an easy task.

“The hardest change for us as a church was the fellowship aspect. We have weekly meals on Sundays so after service we all have lunch together. There are programs during the week that involve food and we’ve had to stop all that since March of 2020 and that’s probably been the hardest thing for us to deal with.

The elimination of having food together. We are still waiting for that day”, says Father Postma.

Covid has changed the weekly schedule of lifelong parishioners, making it impossible to share bread and limiting human connections. Father Postma explains that “[t]he biggest need has been the need to be together.” And not being able to do so physically, has been challenging and has increased anxiety and depression in the

most vulnerable.

People need bonds of affection; they want to be with each other.

St. James has adjusted to offering services online, and while it was difficult at the beginning, the church has figured that a smart phone is the simplest and best thing for their purposes as a small church. Not wanting to rely on simply having an online presence, Father Postma is skeptical of the idea of a digital church in the Anglican tradition. When asked if St. James will continue providing an online presence, Father Postma says “[i]t will continue but it cannot replace, because I do not think that the idea of a digital church makes any sense.” He emphasizes the importance of gathering to worship, in bodies, and receiving the Eucharist.

While St. James continues to offer daily prayers online, Sunday service is now exclusively offered in-person.

Going from very busy church running activities everyday of the week to being an empty building and now slowly opening back up, has been a process. It involves finding a balance between regulations and managing parishioners’ expectations.

Some people finding the church is doing too much, others feeling it is not doing enough. Father Postma explains that finding that balance is key as an Anglican church, not wanting to be in the extremes.

Some of the programs ran at St.

food bank, two growing 12- stepprogram groups, and the Boy Scouts program. Father Postma says Covid has increased the needs in the community but has also seen a lot of support from community members. And not surprisingly, St. James has also welcomed new faces. Father Postma explains that “Covid has exposed the longing or the need for human communication. I think it’s raised big questions about life after death, so death is now very clear. People are dying of Covid and that is causing people to reflect on their own mortality. So, they are coming to church hoping to get those questions answered.”

St. James’ message to the Paris community is that of peace and welcome. “You come in and you feel welcome, whatever baggage or struggles you bring you don’t have to feel conscious about that.

We are a safe place, a hospital for sinners. We are a place of welcome and a place of belonging and healing”, concludes Father Postma.

Continued on Page 19

St. James Anglican Church Father Jason Postma

The Paris Independent

The Presbyterian Church As a last stop, The Independent interviewed Pastor Joel Sherbino of Presbyterian Church. Located close to downtown right on Grand River Street North, Paris Presbyterian is a treat in the heart of Paris. Currently under restoration, as the 128-year-old building is brought back to life, the church has taken Covid challenges and transformed them into positive action. While Covid has slowed down the restoration of the outside of the building, it provided the perfect opportunity to renovate the sanctuary. Not having to worry about relocating the congregation, as it was already operating online, Paris Presbyterian renovated the sanctuary in August of 2020.

“It has been amazing to see through our renovations how we’ve been able to open it up to other usages within the community”, says Sherbino.

Setting up a whole new stage by adding a platform and professionally redoing lights and sound, the church is now accessible for concerts, theatre groups and community groups.

They are now hosts of DT Concert Series and Playful Fox Productions. And with a capacity of 500 people, the possibilities are endless.

When reflecting on the impact Covid has had on the church, Sherbino says “[i]t’s really put us in a place where we can think through how we want our building to be used more and more by the community.” And

19 while Covid has delayed restorations due to a lack of supplies, Sherbino hopes that the outside restoration will be completed early in the new year.

For now, the church focuses on building a sense of community and continues running valuable programs such as The Raw Carrot Soup Enterprise, two annual food drives, a backpack school supply program, and more. In terms of building an online presence, Paris Presbyterian has gone full force.

Hiring staff and investing in equipment to run an online ministry, all the services provided in person are also available online. “I would say now we have a hybrid ministry, both in person and online”, says Sherbino. The online service takes a different approach. It is a whole production pre-recorded in relatable environments such as living rooms, kitchens, and patios, making it more conversational and appealing to viewers. As Sherbino puts it, “It is the same message but delivered differently.”

And people are responding well to this approach. “More people watch online not during Sunday morning. So, we upload it for Sunday, but the majority of people watch it later in the day or even later on in the week. So, it is a great way to connect with people at different times,” says Sherbino.

Not only reserved for those who cannot physically come to church due to health reasons,

November 6, 2021 going online has increased the number of people engaging with the church. By making online service accessible to seniors, young families with kids, people involved in Sunday sports and events, the church is busier than ever before. “It’s actually made it easier for people to invite people to come because it’s ‘here’s a link, will you join us?’” explains Sherbino.

Serving about 220 households pre-Covid, that number has certainly increased. Like other churches, Paris Presbyterian has welcomed newcomers. “We’ve been very intentional of what we’re speaking about, and people are asking the questions, so we can jump right in,” says Sherbino.

So, with growing ministries, Paris Presbyterian continues to focus on the positive. “We’re #ForParis and as a church we want to be for you. We want to be a part of the community. And one of the things that Covid has taught us is the importance of being in this together and I would say our church is a place where you can come, and you can belong. We talk about life and faith and hope in the midst of how it all plays out day to day,” concludes Sherbino.

Paris Presbyterian Pastor Joel Sherbino

The Paris Independent

November 6, 2021

20

SPORTS SUPPORT THE WOLFPACK THIS WEEKEND AT THE MEMORIAL ROB JOHNSTON TOURNAMENT U11 PELTON TRANSPORT The Paris Optimist U11 won its first game 5-2 on Friday night against the Newcastle Village Stars. Details of the game were not available before press deadline. They play again on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. against the Kawartha Coyotes and again 3:30 pm on Saturday Against the Aylmer Flames. Semifinal and Final games will be held on Sunday.

played again at 8 pm on Friday night but details were not available before press deadline. They have a Saturday morning game at 11:30 am against the Lucan Irish and play again Saturday evening depending on the outcome of their morning game.

For more tournament details and up to date scores, please visit Rob Johnston Memorial Rep Tournament (Paris Minor Hockey)

U13 PARIS OPTIMIST CLUB

The Pelton Transport U13 lost 2-0 to the Shallow Lake Lakers on Friday afternoon. They

The U13 team, pictured below, during the October 28th game against The Aylmer Flames. Paris lost 4-1.

Photos by Michelle Malsavo

The Paris Independent

21

November 6, 2021

BUSINESS NEWS

PARIS HOME BUILDING CENTRE STAFF OVERCOME PANDEMIC OBSTACLES

By Casandra Turnbull The staff at Paris Home Building Centre weathered the pandemic by relying on alternate methods of customer service, as well as their expertise. The last 18 months haven’t been easy, and while things are beginning to change, there are still hurdles to overcome. If there is one thing Owner/Dealer Jeffrey Woods is grateful for it’s the return of in-person shopping.

Throughout the various lockdowns and imposed restrictions, Woods and his team had to come up with a plan to help customers curb-side – not an easy feat when customers are buying job-specific materials. It soon became apparent how important the telephone would become.

The store phone was constantly ringing, and Woods was worried about the number of customers who could not get through so staff started utilizing cell phones to meet the customer demand.

“Sometimes we would find ourselves running out to the parking lot 2 -3 -4 times to look after the same customer,” Woods explained of the challenges of shopping almost on behalf of the customer.

Woods credits his staff, and their expert knowledge, on making it through the trials they faced. He said he was fortunate to have adequate staffing throughout the pandemic. “I cannot emphasize enough how amazing of a job our staff did during this time. The pressures, full parking lots, phones ringing off the hook, questions after questions from customers – just wow! They were amazing,” he credits.

From the customer’s perspective, Woods

certainly felt their frustrations. Not only did they have to contend with curbside shopping, viewing materials on a webpage only and relying on staff to pick out their supplies, but they also had to deal with the surging price of lumber and other building materials, as well as a backlog in orders to get the materials they needed.

So, what caused the rising cost of materials, especially lumber? It can be attributed to primary factors: a boom in the housing market and a drastic drop in supply as many sawmills were not operating during some of the pandemic lockdowns. Not only were houses quickly selling thanks to a low interest rate, but new homes are being constructed as well. Many communities, Paris included, are experiencing a surge in new home construction. Take the demand for those subdivisions -and existing home renovations and couple them with material shortages due to lack of labour and it becomes clear why supply and demand peaked this year.

Woods co-owns Paris Home Building Centre alongside his wife Laurie and business partner Jesse Buchan, who also owns the Burford and Brantford locations. He has been a part of the Home Building Family since early 2000. It has been a family-owned business since 1996 when his father-in-law Arnie Small purchased the business then operating as Beaver Lumber.

Woods said he is proud to be a part of this community. Not only does he have a terrific staff, but also a very loyal customer base.

“People in this community are always willing to help one another. We are blessed to have a busy store with a terrific staff in a great town,” he concluded.

The Paris Independent

22

November 6, 2021

TRAV E L C O LU M N PARISIAN EXPERIENCES DAY OF THE DEAD IN MEXICO Well, the only rain has been overnight last Saturday. Blissful temperatures during the day and clear cool nights perfect for sleeping.

Dinners here are a treat. Ajijic has almost unlimited cuisine, from traditional Mexican to Italian, Chinese, American, and beyond. Monday night Freda suggested we try the Mexican.

After consultation with Kathie for suggestions, we decided on El Sombrero.

our meals and stayed to chat. He and his wife Gosha thought to retire here but their love of cooking (and eating) pointed them in another direction.

Carlos is from the Yucatan peninsula and Gosha is Polish.

Carlos perfects every dish on the menu and can take up to a year to do so. Gosha is now in charge of her own restaurant, which we are heading to later in the week. As Carlos boasted “the best ribs anywhere!”

November 1 and 2 are considered Day of the Dead here in Ajijic, when family and friends honour those who have passed away. Traditionally, November 1 is to honour children, November 2 for all others.

November 2 was exceptionally upbeat with a celebratory feeling.

Our front desk receptionist Marta shared with us that we needed to go to the cemetery as this was something very special. “Take your cameras”, she told us. The cemetery is located about 3 km from where we’re staying so Marta kindly arranged our taxi.

Following this, we were to head to the plaza After dinner we were joined by (square) by 6 pm for the parade candle lighting.

Carlos Hernandez, the owner. and He wanted to ensure we enjoyed Entering the cemetery, we Staying in town, we are able to walk to some places and this was one of them. From the outside most places really don’t reveal what’s inside.

El Sombrero even looks a little sketchy…old west saloon comes to mind. Inside is a totally different vibe.

Cathedral plus, ceiling heights keeps it cool and comfortable; and nicely spaced tables allow for ample social distancing. The decor is casual, clean, and welcoming. We all enjoyed our dinners, but only Freda chose a traditional Mexican dish, Chicken Mole (MoleA).

Chicken with chocolate sauce!

were offered hand sanitizer, but other than that, keeping our masks in place is the only noticeable precaution for Covid.

Marta was right…the cemetery was a vibrant, upbeat place completely different from any cemetery I’ve been to in Canada. Graves are not lined up in rows; they follow pathways throughout the area with some exceptionally large gazebo types to smaller more modest sites. There seems to be no rhyme or reason to the placement. But it is lovely.

Despite the crowd, there was a peaceful atmosphere.

Continued on Page 23

23

The Paris Independent

Continued from Page 22 Our group of 4 separated, wandering in all directions. When I caught up with Phil, it was to discover Freda had lost her purse! It’s a small, gold coloured clutch with a wrist band. What a blow! Freda takes everything in stride, so I think I was more upset than she was. We scoured the areas we’d been and found nothing. Arturo, our taxi driver had planned to wait for us. When Freda went to check if she left it in the cab, here came Arturo waving the lost clutch in his hand. It must have fallen on the ground at the rear of the cab and another fellow picked it up and asked Arturo if it belonged to him!

What wonderful people! Trust me ….

Arturo got a great tip It was too early to go to the plaza, so we opted to be dropped in the downtown area and wander the shops for a while. We booked Arturo for our trip to dinner, and he arrived promptly which is not very Mexican, lol.

When we discovered that, yet again, Arturo was going to wait for us, we invited him for

dinner.

Having a Spanish speaking friend came in very handy when we needed the ceiling fan turned down above our table. We all enjoyed a lovely dinner at Adelita’s, as well as the conversation with Arturo. We did discover that he is Marta’s brother Now we were off to the plaza!

We had spent some time here in the previous couple days but this in no way prepared us for the throngs of people there for this celebration. Everywhere there were people in costumes and face paint, adults, and children. One side of the plaza seems dedicated to artists and in a previous visit I had noticed an artist working on a huge canvas.

This canvas was now complete, and a shrine set up before it. I took several pictures and then ended up beside a very tall fellow, who in my opinion seemed to be admiring his work.

“Did you paint this?” I asked him. “Yes,” was his reply.

Efren Gonzalez was the artist. In the center of the shrine was an unfinished painting. So of

November 6, 2021

course, it begged the question, “why?” We asked if that was his father and he laughed and said, “he wished!” Then he explained that the gentleman in the painting was a former editor of their local newspaper, who passed away about 10 years ago. He chuckled and said, “he owed me money, this (the unfinished painting) is pay back!”

Efren also told us not to miss the candle lighting. There were about 1,600 candles along an entire wall of skulls, each with their own name. People are encouraged to bring their own lighters or matches to participate.

The candles are lined up, waist height to roof height, beneath skulls along the side and front of a primary school adjacent to the plaza. Each skull represents a resident who has passed away, including non-Mexican expat residents. Death unifies us all. But first the parade!

We positioned ourselves along what we assumed, based on the crowd, would be the route.

Continued on Page 24

The Paris Independent

24

November 6, 2021

DAY OF THE DEAD COSTUMES, PARADE, EXQUISITE Continued from Page 23 It wasn’t a parade as such, more of a procession.

I would say there were easily more than hundred fully costumed walkers that had made their way from the cemetery (3 km) to the square. Once it passed, we made our way through the crush of people to the far side of the square in front of the church, for the candle lighting.

Luckily this positioned directly in the path of the end of parade. Now we had a front row seat to all the participants. Some of the costumes were exquisite, as we could now appreciate firsthand.

Just as Efren had told us, candle lighting began precisely at 8 pm. Spectators were encouraged to light candles they could reach, while long lighted sticks were used from the roof down to light the higher ones. It really was a spectacular sight when completed.

Following the parade, and thanks to Freda’s research, we discovered that Efren Gonzalez was in fact the artist who created the wall of skulls! No wonder he was so informed!

Photos & article submitted by local resident Karon Sinning, as she adventures through Mexico

RECREATIONAL DROP IN PROGRAMS RESUME MEDIA RELEASE: The County of Brant is pleased to announce that several drop-in recreational programs and skates are back!

Please review all information and rules including COVID-19 protocols before attending a program.

Drop-in skates are available at the Brant Sports Complex, Burford Community Centre and the South Dumfries Community Centre. This includes Adult Skates, Adult Shinny, Beginner Skates, Parent and Tot, Preschool Stick and Puck and Public Skates.

The costs of the Drop-in skates are as follows: Adult Skate - $2.00/person; Adult Shinny $6.00/person; Beginner Skate – $3.00/child; Parent and Tot – free; Preschool Stick and Puck - $1.00/child – Children must be wearing a helmet with a face mask. Adults must wear a helmet. Public Skate - $3.00/person. For a full schedule of skates, please visit www.brant.ca/Skate

Drop-in Programs have returned to the Syl Apps Community Centre. These programs include Kinderplay, Fly Fishing, RC Flyers and Walking on the Turf.

The costs of the drop-in programs are as follows: Fly Fishing - $5.00/person; Kinderplay - $3.00/visit ; RC Flyers – $5.00/person; Walking - $1.00/visit or $25.00 for season For a full schedule of drop-in programs at Syl Apps Community Centre, please visit www.brant.ca/SylApps All Drop-in programs will have limited capacity and will operate on a first come, first serve basis. Proof of Vaccination is required for adults and youth 12 and older.

Please visit our Community Centres page for full details. Participants must practice physical distancing and remain 2 metres from other participants unless from the same household