The Paris Independent Saturday, October 29, 2022

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

TIME FOR ‘ME’ RETREAT!- October 23 & November 20th at Five Oaks Mark it in your calendar: Time for Me! Join Anna Carter for a day retreat that restores joy to your body, mind, and spirit The beautiful energy of nature at Five Oaks will embrace you as you engage in activities that invite you to focus on yourself and what brings joy https://fiveoaks venue360 me/public/events/homep age

WILLETT HOSPITAL REUNION TODAYSaturday, October 29th, 2022 starting at 4:30 pm, social from 5 6 pm with supper, catered by Strodes, to follow If you’d like to attend this event, celebrating the Willett’s 100th anniversary, reach out to Diane Hammer (519) 304 0292

PARIS HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETING November 2nd , 2022, social starts at 7 pm and the meeting starts at 7:30 pm Our guest speakers are Molly and Alex Shannon, owners of Canadian Succulents, a small floral design company Their presentation will be by ZOOM “Canadian Succulents Inside and Out” Come on out and join the Paris Horticultural Society for another informative evening

CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA St. Paul’s United Church, 48 Broadway St. W., Paris SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2022 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Crafts, Baking, Preserves, Frozen Meat Pies, Frozen Turkey Pies &; Soup, White Elephant Room and Lunch/Tea Room

WOMEN INSPIRING WOMEN MEETING NOVEMBER 10th, 2022; 7 9PM at Paris Fairgrounds Community Room. Retired RCMP Officer & Author Paulette Breau. Roll Call: When was the last time you saw an RCMP officer…and why? Community Giving: Donation jar for National Service Dogs forAutism and PTSD

CALLING ALL ARTISTS! ART

WORKSHOP

Enjoy an evening of sketching at the Dog Eared Café every Tuesday of the month, 4 6 pm, $40 per person. Each session will have a different theme or focus. Hosted by Rachelle Laurin from Under the Oak Tree. Do you have a young one interested? Kids classes (10+) held Wednesday & Thursdays 6 8 pm at the Gem, downtown Paris.

Visit beautiful downtown Paris as local

JINGLE BELL WEEKEND

the start of the Christmas season! The Paris BIA tradition takes place Friday November 18th through to November 20th .

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ceremony and don’t forget to bring a non perishable donation to help fill a Ram Truck!

SOUTH WARD SCARE –

IF YOU DARE!

Double, Double Toil & Trouble, fire burn and cauldron bubble! No one’s more excited for Halloween than Paris resident Tiffany Martin. If you love Halloween too, click on the map above and it will show you an interactive map of where the spookiest houses are in Paris’ south end. Also, don’t forget to visit Spooky Cedars on Curtis Ave North for a Halloween adventure that’s sure to put you into the right spirit!

Voter turnout down from 2018 election

40% of voters chose the new online option this year

By Casandra Turnbull

The county’s effort to increase voter turnout fell a bit short this week when only 27 41% of eligible County of Brant voters went to the polls, compared to 35.9% in 2018.

Of the 30,786 eligible voters, 8,438 residents voted. It’s not all bad news though. It appears voters liked the option to cast a vote online with 3,575 or 40% of the people utilizing the online vote, something that was not offered before the 2022 election

Melissa Connor, Director Communications and Public Relations, confirmed online voting was a success and that staff will recommend it be utilized in the 2026 election Ultimately the decision will go before council for a vote. Advance polls were open for one day on October 17 and 548 people went out early to vote. On election day, a total of 4,315 people went to the polling stations to cast a vote. Voter turnout at most polls were similar to previous years, with exception to ward 4 where

Councillors David Miller and Robert Chambers were acclaimed.

The current council will meet one final time on November 3 to reflect on its 2018 2022 term in office. The new council will be sworn in on November 15. Connors also reported everything ran smoothly on election day. A total of 119 people were hired to oversee operations, a combination of both County of Brant staff and residents.

Mayor David Bailey re-elected with 72% of mayoral votes

By Bailey Zimmer

On Oct. 25 the County of Brant welcomed back David Bailey for his second term as Mayor. David Bailey won the election on Wednesday night with 5,964 votes, followed by David Swanson at 1,471 and Shawn Pratt with 802. With just over 72 per cent of the votes, David Bailey takes his second term in office.

“For them to have elected me was a big deal and now to re elect with over 72 per cent of the vote fills my heart. I feel like they’re buying

into what I’m selling, which is a good life, a happy life. No more nonsense, no more bullying, no more name calling Just everybody enjoying what we have. We’re very lucky, we’re very blessed,” said Bailey.

In his upcoming term, Bailey hopes to develop a new transportation system for those within the county to travel to larger neighbouring cities. The beginnings of these plans are just around the corner as his next term commences with the new council members on board.

Bailey is excited for the new Paris library to be built at the corner of Church and Burwell Street and plans to keep the current Carnegie Library building of Paris, located at 12 William Street, as a part of the Downtown core.

With a plan to bring residents closer together, Bailey plans on supporting a new community centre in Glen Morris, similar to the nearly completed one in Cainsville, which will be ready for use shortly

In the past four years, Bailey and his team have also built three new fire departments to be easily accessible for more towns and cities in the county.

Mayor Bailey also wants to build temples and mosques for community members to worship in. Bailey hopes this will create a more welcoming and inclusive environment and make room for diversity within the small towns.

“It’s always good to grow, because without growth it [the community] sort of stagnates. I think in the next few years you’re going to see all kinds of new restaurants and festivals and the County of Brant is really a good news story that is going to start to finish itself,” said Bailey.

Bailey is the second official mayor of Brant County and has big plans to develop the area into a thriving and welcoming community for people of all races and sexualities alike

As Ontario’s first openly gay mayor, Bailey hopes for the County of Brant to deepen its relationship with those from all walks of life.

“It’s not that I want to sing

kumbaya, but I want people to be happier and more relaxed.”

“They’re [new residents] coming from different cultural backgrounds and with that comes restaurants and festivals, culture, art and crafts and everything wonderful that comes with diversity,” said Bailey. “That excites me for the County very much, because it will be a very interesting place to live when they all get settled here and I think that’s wonderful.” St. George and Burford are also set to grow in numbers, as there will be about 2800 new houses to be built within the next few years in St George. These development plans for St George, Burford, Paris and other small towns alike have been set in place from 2006 onward and are only just starting to commence The County of Brant has only existed since 1999. While neighbouring small towns co existed, they only joined together 23 years ago to form a county. In the early 2000’s the decision was made to develop on the land and to double the population of Paris and other areas

“It seems like a lot because we had very little development for so long.”

Bailey says Paris is already about halfway done developing in population. Because of new residents within the County, more money is available to the community which will result in more festivals, art galleries, concerts and other community events.

In his last term, Bailey enjoyed small town affairs, like the Drinks Fest in Paris which brought the town together for an afternoon of laughter fun, performances and sampling drinks Bailey says there was no hate, violence or negative nature.

Mayor Bailey appreciates living and growing in the tight knit community of Brant County and encourages everyone to recognize the paradise they live in while not taking it for granted Bailey is hopeful for the future of Brant County.

“The quality of life is getting better and it’s getting to be more fun, there’s more things to do … we’re getting there.”

Rita Collver

Thomas Waldschmidt

Three out of four Paris councillors re-elected; newcomer Lukas Oakley joins council this term

Controlled development, affordable housing and traffic concerns top priority for all four Paris councillors

By Casandra Turnbull

Following Monday night’s municipal election, Paris residents will see a new face at the council table. Lukas Oakley was elected as the newest Ward 2 representative, filling the seat left vacant by Marc Laferriere who chose not to run again for a second term. Oakley received 751 votes and will join re elected wardmate Steve Howes who garnered 1,341 votes. It was a tight race in Ward 2 between Oakley and fellow candidate Jay Arora who received 627 votes.

Over in Paris’ ward 3, both John Peirce and John Bell were re-elected in a close race that saw newcomer Danny Teves narrowly miss a seat. Peirce led the polls with 1,022 votes, followed by Bell with 920 and Teves with 838.

OAKLEY & HOWES IN WARD 2

Oakley plans to hit the ground running. He’s young and ambitious and he can’t wait to get his feet wet. “I received excellent advice and wisdom from Marc Laferriere, Steve Howes, John Bell, Robert Chambers and David Bailey during the campaign, as they were happy to share their experiences on council with me and others running, which was invaluable,” said Oakley. He also wishes to thank his campaign team Ben Pickles, Kyle Pugh and Brandon Westbrook, along with his wife Bryn and countless family and friends who helped him along the campaign trail.

As he pulls up a seat to the council table, Oakley said he wants to continue to build on the previous council’s work on addressing affordable housing and expanding public transit “Brant eRide has been an excellent start and expanding that service is a must, alongside with pursuing partnered transit with the City of Brantford for inter city buses and

New elect Lukas Oakley and incumbent John Bell ran into each other on the campaign trail this month. Now they will serve together as elected councillors in Wards 2 & 3.

in the future, GO transit,” said Oakley. On the affordable housing front, Oakley thinks the recently approved Trillium Way low income housing complex and the county’s approval of ARUs (additional residential units) are great ways to begin to address the affordable housing crisis.

“Regardless of what we are building, in this current housing climate, they will sell, so we ought to encourage them to be housing units that benefit our community.”

The two key issues Oakley documented during his extensive door to door campaign, were development concerns and transportation woes “I think our biggest challenge ahead of us is trying to get our infrastructure to catch up and then keep up with the mandated growth, particularly when the upper tiers of government seem content to mandate and not contribute,” he said.

Oakley feels that while a bridge and bypass around Paris are prudent, they are not financially possible without provincial support. In the meantime, he said, a potential solution could be looking at a partnership with Brantford, Kitchener/Cambridge, Oxford and Haldimand as a unilateral voice advocating for better transportation services, because there is strength in numbers Oakley also hopes to help address a shortfall in schools to keep up with the increased development, tackle frequent power outages in the north end Pinehurst subdivision powered by Hydro One and increase OPP presence in neighbourhoods hit hard by theft and vehicle break and enters. Howes, re elected for his second term, is on the same page as Oakley when it comes to affordable housing solutions. “Most community residents express that we need to slow down the residential growth and at the same time, they are also very aware that we need more affordable or modest sized housing,” said Howes. “We need to create incentives for builders to create the types of homes that our community needs and not just the ones that give the biggest profits.”

In fact, Howes feels the biggest challenge this term will be slowing down that residential growth, which is mandated by the province, and convincing the province to accept the county’s draft New Official Plan to spread the mandated growth over 30 years.

“While we cannot stop growth, we have established proof that we need time to improve our infrastructure and the developer’s race to build out our communities needs to be phased over a longer period of time.”

The draft New Official Plan was approved by council last fall. The County is still waiting for the

province to review and approve it. Another area of focus this term, according to Howes, will be an emphasis on traffic management Referencing the recent traffic headache in Paris during the Butter Tart /Mac & Cheese fest, Howes said, “Peak traffic times have shown us that this is an area that needs attention. The recent closing of Market Street for necessary infrastructure construction has clearly shown how dependent we are on a very small number of routes through and around Paris.”

Howes believes that the new Transportation Master Plan will start moving us in that direction Howes wanted to thank his campaign volunteers for delivering literature to almost every door in Ward 2 and to the very talented local resident who kept his website up to date. “This was a very effective team effort that delivered a very large number of votes. I am very grateful for everyone who helped make that happen.

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Councillor Steve Howes (right) was re-elected Monday night. He bids farewell to wardmate Marc Laferriere who chose not to run for a second term.

PEIRCE & BELLIN WARD 3

On the other side of Paris (south end), John Peirce hopes to use this new term to continue to ‘tap the breaks’ on development. During the last term, council successfully paused development applications for over a year, but were not able to stop the development of homes already approved. When it comes to approving future development, Peirce plans to take a firm stance on what those subdivisions will look like, with the hopes of approving plans that make sense for the community That will mean continuing to fight developers/developments at the provincial tribunal and by not approving ‘over development.’ “They are looking for higher density without additional parking or builds that are against the character of the neighbourhood,” said Peirce. Both Peirce and Bell voted against a recent Losani site plan to build 101, three storey townhouse units in the Edgar subdivision because the plan did not, in their opinion, have adequate parking. Peirce also hopes to expand on the additional residential units (granny suite/tiny home) approvals this term and to continue to stream council meetings online to offer residents the opportunity to view from home, which equates to better transparency. Like all councillors in Paris, Peirce also acknowledges the biggest challenge ahead will be how to handle the continued growth in a sensible fashion, while trying to improve the infrastructure to keep up with that growth. Peirce thanked everyone who supported him during this recent campaign, “and also to those that may not have made me their choice BUT did take the time to vote.”

Wardmate John Bell has some very distinct plans for the next four years, which include building on the successes of last term: finalizing approval and implementing the draft New Official Plan, implementing the Paris Downtown Master Plan, delivering on the Brant Safe Streets Strategy and

making the most of the new Cowan Community Health Hub.

His concerns over the next four years are very similar to Peirce’s addressing rapid growth, building affordable housing options, and parking in newer, higher density subdivisions. “I will pursue an urgent review of our parking by law and associated zoning by laws with the intent of making adjustments as needed for a longer term solution,” said Bell

Road safety is another worry and Bell plans to request additional funding in the 2023 budget to allow for more traffic calming measures and greater enforcement action. Part of road safety includes looking at a mounting traffic problem in Paris’ downtown core.

“We need to consider creative solutions to the ultimate bottleneck of the Grand River Street North and William Street junction, such as the use of state of the art smart traffic lights, removal of angled parking, and the consideration of one way systems around the downtown core,” said Bell Bell thanked all the residents in Ward 3 that voted for him and for all the input he received during his door to door campaign, as well as online conversations with constituents.

Councillor John Peirce chats with Mayoral candidate Shawn Pratt during the candidate open house hosted by The WIW Women’s Institute & the Paris Chamber of Commerce.

Two new councillors with communication and agricultural backgrounds step into new roles in Wards 1 & 5

By Casandra Turnbull

Paris’ ward 2 wasn’t the only ward to welcome new representation at council following this week’s municipal election.

First time candidate Jennifer Kyle was elected in ward 1, with just 157 votes less than her re elected wardmate John MacAlpine. Meanwhile in ward 5, Christine Garneau won the popular vote with 1,018 votes, followed by councillor elect Brian Coleman with 829 votes.

Kyle, who has a career in communications and an extensive agricultural background, feels these two qualifications will be an asset around the council table. “I want residents to feel like they are being kept in the loop with what’s going on at the council table,” said Kyle. “I think my agricultural background will also be an asset. Council decisions need to be made through the lens of how they impact our primary

sector.”

Kyle and her husband operate a dairy, beef, lamb and cash crop farm with her family northwest of Paris. She’s also the Manager of Public Engagement and Digital Strategy at the Beef Farmer’s of Ontario.

While she aims to improve communications, the first step to settling into her new role will be gathering knowledge and establishing relations to gain a better understanding on how council operates in conjunction with county staff.

“I’m anxious to get up to speed on where things are at with various issues, policies and projects so I have a better understanding of process, plans and context. I’m also looking forward to getting to know my fellow councillors and county staff.”

Over in ward 5, Christine Garneau also plans to bring some strong communication and professional experience to the

Left, Jennifer Kyle celebrates her win Monday with family, friends and neighbours who volunteered on her campaign team. Right, Christine Garneau with Mayor David Bailey during the candidate open house in Paris.

council table. In addition, her commitment to rural and agricultural communities resonated with voters. Garneau is deeply committed to maintaining rural and agricultural heritage. “I look forward to being our voice around the council table and advocating for the needs and priorities of the ward’s nine communities,” she stated. Garneau said she will ease into the job by starting conversations with fellow councillors with regards to shared priorities, foremost road safety. With the public comment period open for the recently presented Transportation Master Plan, now is a great time to address speeding, dangerous driving and the conditions of the wards in rural Brant, she shared. “I’m also looking forward to next week’s Agri-Food forum, committee appointments and continuing to engage with residents about the issues that are important to them.”

2022 Community Christmas Hamper program officially underway

Applications accepted at County office effective November 1st

By Casandra Turnbull

The annual Christmas Hamper program is officially underway for 2022 with the announcement this week that residents can soon make their application.

It officially kicks off next week and hamper applications will be available as of November 1st at the County of Brant customer service office located at 66 Grand River St N. The office will also accept monetary donations for those looking to contribute to the program that gives back to residents in need during the holiday season

“Our Christmas Hamper program is once again looking forward to helping residents in our local area,” said Shirley Simons in a press release. Simons is one of several founding members.

During an interview last year, she recalls how it all started some 40 years ago in longstanding member Marg Knill Wilson’s basement. It has grown considerably over the decades and Simons still marvels at the success of the program.

In addition to monetary donations, the county office is also accepting knitted mitts and hats. The popular program is a community wide initiative with businesses, service clubs and residents working hand in hand to make it successful. In 2020 the program distributed 165 hampers and 140 hampers in 2021. Non-perishable items and NEW TOYS may be dropped off at the Paris LCBO, County office, CIBC, TD Canada Trust, Your Neighbourhood Credit Union, The Full Plate restaurant and the

Cowan Community Health Hub. Simons confirmed in the press release that many local schools will be collecting throughout November and December.

As reported last week, the County of Brant Fire Department will once again collect toys at the Jingle Bell Night on November 18th and will collect toys at Canadian Tire on November 24-26th . They will collect for the Food Drive December 3rd and 4th and December 10th and 11th at both grocery store locations. The County of Brant OPP, and the fire department, will also bring back their ‘Fill a Vehicle’ campaign both of those weekends. If you’d like to sponsor a family, you can contact Shirley Simons at 519 442 3550

This year’s hampers will be distributed on Friday, December 16th at the Paris Fairgrounds. “On behalf of the committee, thank you to everyone for sharing and making it possible for many happy faces at this Christmas time in our community,” stated Simons.

Volunteers help sort canned goods during last year’s hamper campaign. Left to right, Bill Tough, Shirley Simons, Corrinne McClure, Sheila Tough and Tawnia Martel

Horticultural Society plants 500 native plants and shrubs on Watts Pond Road

Fourteen members of the Paris Horticultural Society took advantage of the summer like weather last Friday to plant 500 native plants and shrubs on a green area just off Watts Pond Road. Doug Hanna and Dave Collins purchased the plants and shrubs, brought them to the park area, added some soil and dug holes to prepare for members who planted a variety of native plants. The club’s mission is to assist insects in the pollination process since native plants are at risk of being overrun by plants that are invasive and not native to our growing area This area which is at the border of a new subdivision on one side and farmland on the other side, will now have a variety of pollinator and butterfly attracting perennials and shrubs to naturally beautify the area beside Watts Pond Road There were several brilliant and healthy maple trees already there which received a little bit of a trim. The club pledges to do its part to add to the biodiversity needed to maintain the beautiful community of Paris while promoting native plants, trees, and shrubs. Members who planted were Dave Collins, Doug Hanna, Joe Stone, Edith Stone, Brenda Simpson, Patti Gladding, Carol Reansbury, Shirley McAllister, Larry Stewart, Maureen Little, Anne Vernon, Nancy Burkholder, Bob Hasler and Pat Moore. Great job by an active and friendly garden club!

Club Photos were taken by Dave and Carol / Maple Tree Photos by: Michelle Malvaso

Wee Watch opts in to National Childcare Plan

Families will see fees drop 25% and retroactive rebates applied starting November 1st

By Casandra Turnbull

The deadline to opt into the National Child Care Plan is looming on November 1st . Wee Watch has announced it is opting in and was officially approved as a Canada Wide Early Learning Child Care participating agency. That’s good news for parents who will start to see a reduction in rates effective November 1st . Not only will day care fees drop by 25% next week for Wee Watch families, but that reduction will be retroactive to April 1st, 2022, and parents and caregivers will see that rebate by credit card or refund cheques, said Luisa Pappert, Area Supervisor for Wee Watch Brantford Brant.

“We are encountering parents that are not aware of the fee reduction or that it is happening It is real and happening as of November 1st for our agency,” Pappert announced. Furthermore, the agency will reduce fees by another 25% in 2023 to meet the provincial average of $23.00 per day. Ontario was the last province to sign the National Child Care Plan, just days before the March 31st , 2022, deadline. Families provincewide were rejoicing at the prospect of lower fees with the hope that by 2025 working families will see the benefits of $10 a day care. The government hopes this massive reduction will drive economic growth and enable parents to return to the workforce

The $30 billion Canada wide plan, introduced by the Federal Government, will dole out $10.2 billion in funding to Ontario over the next five years with $2.9 billion promised in the sixth year. The funding will be distributed to licensed home

Wee Watch staff (standing left to right) Luisa Pappert, Linda O’Donnell and Terry Winder Sholer and sitting Tara Jones and Maria Luciani. Wee Watch is participating in the National Child Care Plan. As of next Tuesday, fees will drop by 25% and parents and care givers will see that reduction retroactive to April 1st , 2022. To help meet the growing demand for child care, Wee Watch is actively looking for more providers to join their licensed agency.

and centre based childcare facilities who opt in and apply. Ontario has also committed to creating 86,000 new spaces before the end of the six year deal to address waitlists

Pappert said the increased demand for licensed childcare spots will be the obstacle to overcome in the years ahead.

“We have been actively recruiting providers this year and have increased our capacity by approximately 10%,” she said. “There are currently families on the centralized waitlist for the County of Brant and City of Brantford. We will need to meet with informal providers in the community to encourage them to join the licensed agency to be able to offer the reduced rates to their families as well as supporting other families on the waitlist.”

Pappert said Wee Watch understands that compensation is important to attract more providers to a licensed agency, so the organization is offering additional financial supports to existing providers and financial incentives to onboarding new providers.

In the meantime, Pappert confirmed they have increased administrative staff to process and execute the upcoming retroactive rebates to families. Once the agency receives the funding from the province, they have 20 days to apply or mail out the rebates. When the National Child Care Plan was rolled out in Ontario last spring, it faced wide criticism and backlash for lack of clarity leaving many licensed agencies wondering if it was a smart financial move Most other provinces saw well over 90 per cent of eligible providers opt in. Ontario initially set a September 1st opt in deadline but extended that deadline to November 1st and went back to the drawing board to make further changes to its $10 a day program to boost uptake. The Ministry of Education collected feedback from childcare providers stating the need for stability, consistency, and financial security. The minister implemented new guidelines aimed to make it easier for operators to opt in. These changes guarantee that operators will not lose any funding in 2023 by opting in “The government is moving to a cost based budgeting formula for 2024 and we anticipate further discussions to ensure delivery of quality care, viability, accommodation for inflation and increased costs to cover staff wages and provider rates, all

while continuing to provide the reduced rates,” said Pappert She also predicts the average daily rate of $12 per day will be provided to Wee Watch families by 2024.

The Paris Independent reached out to Paris Child Care for a comment. They did not respond to our email before press deadline. We will continue to follow this story if we become aware of other participating centres.

If you’re a home based childcare provider and would like to join the Wee Watch agency or learn more about them, visit www.weewatch.com/provider/child care services brantford brant/ . If you’d like to research a participating agency, offering reduced rates as of November 1st , visit www.brantford.onehsn.com

Online Voting open until Sunday, Oct. 23 at 6 pm

LOCAL HISTORY

Paris Past

By Chris Whelan

The Tale of Two Kisses

After immigrating to Canada from Scotland, Edward and Albert Kerr opened a candy store and bakery in St. Thomas, Ontario in 1895 to great success. Three years later the Kerr brothers sold the bakery and moved the business 100km east to Brantford, Ontario. There, the Kerrs expanded the business and opened six (yea, that’s right, six) confectionery factories where they were producing some of Canada’s favourite candies including Lollypops, Caramels, Butterscotch, Scotch Mints, Striped Mints, Toffee, Fruit Drops, and those little strawberry candies we have all grown to love.

By 1904 things were getting really bright when Kerr’s started marketing their first foil wrapped candies and had to move their operations to Etobicoke to better meet the high demand They have recently re located to a new facility in Oakville in 2021 after the land they rented was needed by the school next door.

At the end of WW2 Kerr’s introduced a molasses candy wrapped in orange and black that was only available in Canada and only for Hallowe’en No one seems to ever like them, but they mysteriously sell out of stores every year…Canada’s love hate relationship with this 76 year old candy is an endearing seasonal confection: The Kerr’s Molasses Candy Kiss! which may be mistakenly hated due to the fact that other companies have marketed similar molasses candies of lesser quality. Those that

grew up with Kerr’s fine quality candies know that not all “Kisses” are created equal. Allan Candy Company is one such example:

While Allan’s claims sales have been steadily declining, they abandoned the kiss a few years ago. Kerr’s however still sells completely out across Canada from Victoria to St. John’s year after year after year!

Early Kerr’s Butterscotch Taffy sign The Kerr Brothers Images courtesy of Kerr's Candy archives

PHS members clean up trees at Paris Cenotaph

On Thursday morning you might have noticed Doug Hanna and Dave Collins prepping the cenotaph ahead of the Remembrance Day service that will take place in a couple of weeks. Hanna and Collins, members of the Paris Horticultural Society, took their pruning equipment down to the Paris Cenotaph and gave the two crab apple trees that grace the entrance to the Cenotaph a much needed pruning. Read next week’s Paris Independent for full details on this year’s Remembrance Day service.

Photo submitted by the Paris Horticultural Society

Sacred Heart School donates to Paris Food Bank

Cyclist killed on Green Lane

A 62-year-old Brant County man was struck and killed while cycling on Green Lane in Paris Thursday evening.

The giving season is approaching, and the Food Bank is preparing for its busiest time of year with the holidays not far off Local businesses, organization and schools are collecting and donating the Paris Salvation Army Food Bank. This week the Salvation Army applauded Sacred Heart School in Paris for a successful food drive and donation to the Paris Food Bank. The school, located off Rest Acres Road, collected 1,093 pounds of non perishable food items. If you’re looking to donate to the Paris Food Bank, there is a collection box at Paris Sobeys and Nick’s No Frills or you can arrange a drop off by phone 519 442 3432 or email

William.ratelband@salvationarmy.ca

The County of Brant OPP, Fire Department and Brant Brantford paramedics were called to a collision at 5:57 pm involving a passenger vehicle and a cyclist. Tom Keen, of Brant County, was transported to an area hospital and pronounced deceased by attending physicians.

Green Lane was closed for approximately six hours while emergency crews and investigators were on scene.

The OPP West Region Traffic Incident Management Enforcement team is asking anyone in the area who owns a dash camera and may have been in the area, to contact them at 1 888 310 1122. The collision is under investigation

Thursday night’s win puts Panthers in Senior Football Final against rival SJC Eagles!

AABHN Senior Football - Paris Panthers vs NPC Trojans

Thursday Oct 27th , Senior Panthers 17-8 over North Park. Touchdowns from Tyler Kreslin and Jack Kelly. Convert and field goal by Ryan O’Neill, plus a panther rouge. St. John’s and Paris will now play for the AABHN championship on Nov. 4 at the Gretzky Field at 7:30 p.m.

AABHN Junior Football - Paris Panthers vs BCI MUSTANGS

Friday night Oct. 28th ,

BCI

. See details in next week’s edition!

Photo by Michelle Malvaso

PantherGraphicsby: KeeganParkhillDesignCo.

Paris Mounties fan base continues to grow

By George Le Gresley Paris Mounties Communications

One thing that is a constant with the Mounties, are kids loving their hometown team Saturday prior to the game, a young man (he wanted to be called Sonic) came down the hallway hoping to see a Mountie player come out the door into the hall with his homemade sign in tow. Sonic was asked if he would like to go in the room, meet the team and give a pregame speech. Sonic, about five or six, gave a speech on how much he loved the team, how he made a special sign and he would cheer tonight for a win. Unfortunately, Sonic’s wish of a Mountie win did not come true, a 4 1 loss to Norwich, but Sonic’s love of the Mounties and being in their room will be a memory that he will keep if not forever, then for a long time Mounties forward #17, Ryan O’Keefe, like Sonic, a Paris kid, was also a fan of the Mounties and grew up to be a young man on the Mounties team Ryan, a grade 12 honour student at Paris District High school, spent all his minor hockey years playing for the Wolfpack organization, with an eye on playing for the local Junior team Ryan made the team and is surprised by the support of the home team crowd and even more surprised on how many local fans show up for their road games as

well.

As for the future, like many young people his age, Ryan is unsure of what his next step will be academically or what his career path will be. One thing for sure is that he wants to see he and his teammates succeed and win as he continues building memories with the Mounties organization. Paris’ 4 1 loss to Norwich last Saturday was a well fought battle against the Merchants who sit in a three-way tie for third place in the PJHL standings. O’Keefe scored Paris’ first goal only 55 seconds into the game. Paris held the Merchants off until the 10 minute mark when their opponents tied the game. The Merchants would add another one to end the first period in a 2 1 lead Norwich’s next two goals came in the second period. Paris was in Woodstock to meet the Woodstock Navy Vets on Friday, details of that game were not available by press deadline. They’re back at home tonight to host the Hespeler Shamrocks the puck drops at 7:30 pm Admission $10 Children 12 and under Free

Paris’ own Ryan O’Keefe celebrates a goal during an October 15th Mounties game. O’Keefe scored Paris’ lone goal in a 4 1 loss to Norwich last weekend. And Mounties super fan, Sonic, following his pre game speech to the team.

Photo credit left to Michelle Malvaso and right to George Le Gresley

U11 Rep off to a 2-0 start on the season

The Paris Wolfpack Under 11 Rep team, sponsored by Pelton Transportation, is off to a solid 2 0 start on the season.

The puck dropped for the first time on October 20th as the Wolfpack hosted the Tavistock Titans.

Liam De Vries, Marshall Lerno and Luke Cochrane each scored their first goals of the season in a 3-2 victory in front of a hometown crowd.

The team travelled to Burford on October 24th for their second regular season game against the Coyotes and skated away with a 7 3 victory

It didn’t take long for Colson Baker to record his first hattrick of the year and not to be outdone, Nash Johnston found the back of the net twice. Single goals also came from Reid Cadwell and Brody Farrington

Great start, Wolfpack Keep up the momentum!

*U13 Rep Sponsored by Optimist Club of Paris wins 4 2 over the Hagersville Hawks

*U11-2 Team 2 wins 11 2 over the Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U18 1 Sponsored by Cobblestone Medicine, ties 3 3 against the Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U15-3 Sponsored by Canadian Tire wins 10 0 over the Six Nations Blackhawks

*U18-2 Sponsored by Hoogs Installations, loses 1 3 against the Waterford Wildcats

*U15-3 Sponsored by Canadian Tire, ties 3 3 against Simcoe Warriors

*U11 Team 1 wins 9 0 over the Tillsonburg Tornadoes

*U15 2 Sponsored by Burford Foodland wins 7 5 over the

Waterford Wildcats

*U15 Team 1 sponsored by Adkins Financial wins 6 1 over Ingersoll Express

*U13 Team 2 Sponsored by Fifth Ground Entertainment loses 3 2 to Norwich Knight hawks

*U13 1 Sponsored by Arora Dental loses 3 1 over Waterford Wildcats

*U11 Team 2 wins 8 5 over the Langton Leafs

*U18 1 Sponsored by Cobblestone Medical loses 2 1 to Burford Coyotes

*U11 Team 2 wins 5 2 over Waterford Wildcats (2)

*U11 Team 1 loses 3 1 to Waterford Wildscats (2)

News from the ‘other’ rink in town….

Did you miss last week's Try Curling Open House? well have no fear, because "Another One" is here!

That's right, This Sunday, October 30th from 2 pm to 4 pm, come on out to the Paris Curling Club, also known as ‘The Friendliest House in Town,’ to try your hand at curling!

Current PCC members will be on hand to provide some knowledge & instruction about curling and teach you the basics of the game. You'll also get to go on the ice and throw a couple rocks. All you'll need to bring is a clean pair of "indoor shoes" and some warm ish clothes (we recommend not jeans).

Then, once you decide you love curling and want to do it more, you can sign up to join our official Learn To Curl program in November.

BCHS needs 178 more nurses

The Brant Community Healthcare System, like many other hospitals across the region, continue to feel the effects of short staffing and demand on the healthcare industry.

Despite these challenges, BCHS continues to take advantage of all of the available human resource funding and initiatives in order to support and expand the culture of its hospital sites, according to a social media post this week

Currently, there are 271 job vacancies, including 178 for nurses. BCHS is reaching out to the community urging people visit a list of job opportunities to see if there is a career path that aligns with your qualifications.

President and CEO of the BCHS, David McNeil, reminds people that, “It is an unprecedented time trying to manage the daily issues that our staff, physicians and volunteers face In these very difficult times, kindness goes a long way.”

The post went on to state that BCHS offers flexible work arrangements, incentive pay, wellness initiatives, a new peer support program, and more. Last month, the Hospital Insider, a BCHS publication, revealed how BCHS is enhancing orientation practices in order to better attract and retain new employees

Angela Burke, Clinical Educator, oversees the orientation for newly hired

clinical staff and a preceptorship program, which matches a current staff member with a new employee.

“I like to say, that even before a person is hired, we are already preparing to ensure their success,” said Burke “It’s a very thorough orientation, involving many aspects of our organization, including everything from our corporate mission, vision and values, information technology, finding your way through the hospital, and training tailored to where the new employees will be working ”

Burke is working to launch a residency program for newly graduated nurses, including workshops that will provide social support for new employees.

If you or somebody you know is interested in applying to the BCHS a list of job opportunities is available: wwwbchsys org/careers

**Excerpts taken from Hospital Insider, September 28, 2022 and October 26, 2022 Social Media post**

Healthy lifestyle leads to new life, accomplished goals

her life? Let me share her story! Here is her account:

Melanie's journey over the past 13 months (and 3 days, to be precise!) has been nothing short of incredible. Not only has she lost 50 pounds, but she has learned to make this a lifelong lifestyle so that she will NEVER have to go on a diet again

The transformation is not only outstanding in her pictures but in her life. If you are a friend of hers on Facebook, you will see all the adventures she is now taking part in with her family and her class. The sky is truly the limit for her as nothing is stopping her from living her life to the very fullest And the best part is....she is now a certified nutrition coach and is joining the GFS staff this November!

She's jumping right in as she and Coach Julie are gearing up for a 6 week long nutrition coaching program that runs up to Christmas eve More details are provided at the end of this column if you’d like to change your unhealthy habits ahead of the proverbial New Year’s resolution!

So how did Melanie transform

“As I stood on the scale this morning there were so many emotions bursting through my body. After so many fad diets, memberships, pills and just trying everything that would provide me with a fast fix to help me feel better about myself, I finally found a lifestyle. This nutrition program is good for my body, makes sense and has no restrictions. I am happier, healthier and have so much energy to live each day to its fullest. My family and friends get a better version of me Thanks to Shelley for this amazing life changing program and thanks to

my number one supporter, fan, coach and friend Julie, who has stuck by my side and pushed me when I needed to be pushed and was so sensitive to life events that happened along the way My advice to others is to change your mindset and to think ‘how can I change my nutrition to make it a lifestyle where I am eating foods that make my body feel healthy and strong ’ Yes, it is hard work at first, and you need to want it, but it’s so worth it. The feeling is unbelievable!”

GFS is committed to helping you discover your HEALTHY lifestyle Reach out at any time to learn more about our programs and services

Coach Mel (pictured before and after her lifestyle transformation) and Coach Julie are now accepting applications for nutrition coaching spots available in a six week program, starting Monday November 14 until Christmas Eve. There would be no better gift to give yourself this Christmas then the gift of better HEALTH and WELLNESS. Message Coach Shelley to learn more about this opportunity at gaudetfitnesssolu tions@gmail.com

Just for the Health of It

With Coach Shelley Gaudet

County staff execute emergency response exercise

The County of Brant Emergency Operations Centre team engaged in an annual emergency exercise on October 20, 2022.

The simulated incident included a major weather event and the initial response to help community members and support first responders. The exercise allowed County representatives to utilize their skills and training on emergency response and identify gaps and needs. “Emergency response is a high priority for County Council and staff This exercise is a critical tool to ensure our community is resilient,” said Mayor David Bailey. “We want to ensure we have the tools and knowledge available to our citizens at their

time of critical need ”

Chief Administrative Officer, Michael Bradley said “the County’s Emergency Operations Centre had a challenging and engaged emergency exercise Our team performed with calm professionalism. We are very confident that we are ready for unprecedented situations.”

The County of Brant is required under the Ontario Regulation 380/04 to engage in annual emergency training. Undertaking an annual exercise and having key personnel participating in training is a key component of being prepared and building Brant’s resiliency.

‘High priority’ training focussed on response to major weather event

OF THE DEAD

Day of the Dead poems poke fun at Paris

There are many traditions, quirks, and general idiosyncrasies in Mexican society and perhaps one of the most popular are Calaveritas, Day of the Dead poems designed to evoke some humour into a Mexican tradition celebrated on November 1st and 2nd . Paris Independent reporter Carolina Saenz has created two Paris centric Calaveritas one focussing on Canada’s Prettiest Town and the other on the one and only community newspaper The Paris Independent. Enjoy!

La Catrina is back, again with no warning for Día de Muertos for hers everlasting.

She first visits Chris as he is the founder of the great Independent, and rumour is it’s thriving. He’s painting and sculpting, barely notices her, the clicking of bones blending into the air. She won’t take him yet, he’s far too creative, and if he weren’t here, there’d be no Independent.

She goes to Casandra’s who writes and then edits, she stares right at her trying to come to her senses. But oh, what a shame! She’s too bright to take, and with all that typing her skeleton shakes. She rushes to someone a little more young, she calls herself Bailey, a reporter in town. But something distracts her, a flashing of light, it’s the Independent’s artist Michelle keeping guard. For photo after photo, her skills are improved, she won’t take her either her time isn’t due.

She smells something foreign, familiar perhaps, it must be the Mexican lady at last. Hola Carolina, La Flaca smiles but just as she’s pouncing, two littles arrive. They’re so sweet, so special and to her surprise, they start speaking Spanish right to their mamá. Oh, no! What to do! She can’t take her either, for even La Muerte must have her own limit.

And so The Independent team will stay one more year, for then La Calaca might re visit Paris

Photos by Karon Sinning

Will La Catrina visit Paris next week? Perhaps!

DAY OF THE DEAD

Here comes November with its celebrations, and right here in Paris we’re seeking salvation.

It’s Day of the Dead and although not in Mexico, here comes La Huesuda attracting attention.

Some say she was called, invoked by a neighbour, the truth is she simply enjoys a nice pueblo.

For who can resist the charms of this place dubbed ‘The Prettiest Town in Canada,’ all over the net.

Her first stop’s the library, for she likes a good read and always accompanied by a Dog Eared treat.

But right as she’s struttin’ all over the Grand, she notices bubbles and just can’t hold back. They come from Fizz Soakery and what a cool place, if only La Chula had somebody left.

She’s all bones and spirit but elegantly dressed she stops for some shopping, just right at Suzanne’s.

Now on to accessories to Wabi Sabi she heads, and with all those crystals she almost feels blessed.

She’s looking for something a little more fun, she finds inspiration at Kat’s BOHO hall.

It’s truly spectacular, the art here in town, from Holly O’s florals to Taren White’s art.

All these explorations have emptied her out, she’s looking for something to help her recharge.

She sees all the staples, the burgers and fries, chocolate, cheesecake, and arepas are found.

But although local restaurants are impressive to most, none carry a menu to satisfy her urge.

See, Día de Muertos is her special day with all of the beings right at her dismay.

From adults and children to babies and pets, La Calaca is ruthless and won’t discriminate.

If she tries to take you oh, don’t you resist, just dance to her music till you cross the bridge. For Día de Muertos shall happen again, a chance for your loved ones to see you well fed.

With candles and flowers to guide you on your way, a feast of your favourites will be on display. It is truly special to feel close again and remember the memories from back in the day.

Though right here in Paris and anywhere else, the longing for loved ones needs no holiday.

Pictures taken by Paris resident Karon Sinning during her October/November 2021 trip to Mexico.

She was there to experience Day of the Dead celebrations.

ASTROLOGY

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire)Now is the time to stop avoiding the things you are afraid of You will have great courage given to you this week. Go out and talk to your secret crush, take the next step in your relationship or ask for that promotion you deserve Use this before you lose it

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth)Deep passion is on the horizon You will feel completely connected mind, body and soul. Most people will use this passion in their love life, but it can also be used to better yourself or your career This gives you the rare ability to be able to express yourself emotionally This is a great gift.

Gemini: May 21 June 20 (Air) You will have to decide what is most important to you this week. You do not have the proper energy to do everything at once You will have to prioritize only the things that are absolutely necessary to make it through the week. You will get your mojo back by Friday.

Cancer: June 21 July 22 (Water) You are fighting the Universe Why? You are missing signs everywhere You have been shown your soul mate, yet ignoring the connection. You have been offered opportunities in your career and you let them pass you by? Take this week to really look around and see all the signs and listen to what the Universe is yelling at you.

Leo: July 23 August 22 (Fire) You are connected to your intuitive side Listen to your gut, it is correct. This can excel love and romance. I would instead use it to increase your financial situation or your physical health Follow what your inner self is telling you it really does know what you need the most.

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth)- You are seeing beauty in everything Everywhere you look you are pausing to take it all in. This leaves you feeling truly blessed. This connection is a blessing, but also maybe a distraction. You will find yourself daydreaming and easily distracted Balance enjoyment and focus carefully.

Libra: September 23 October 22 (Air) You are putting your power into your career. It is needed to get your finances on track. Lately slacking in this area has caused way too much stress in your life You have not been focused enough to create anything stable. Time to pull up your socks and do more work.

Scorpio: October 23 November 21 (Water) You will have opportunities coming to you. This is a great week for you to change things for the better in your life path. When you are presented with these opportunities, take them seriously You have been waiting a long time for changes like this.

Sagittarius: November 22 December 21 (Fire)- Things seem to start and stop for you. This week is going to feel like you are just treading water in a circle Frustration is going to leave you by mid week, so hang in there. By the weekend you will finally feel more steady and slowly start progressing to better days.

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) You are a magical being. Sometimes you doubt this and want to see facts. But this week you will see that you are bringing magic in your life. Use it. Increase the connection in love and boost your career options. You will be offered great things that will increase your finances... If you can just believe in magic.

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18 (Air) Your dry spell in romance is over. You need some snuggles and passion. Go out and find it this week. The energy supports a true love connection You have been working on balancing yourself and now this hard work is finally paying off Accept this you have earned it

Pisces: February 19 March 20 (Water) The energy this week is supporting abundance in your life This will be like having a four leaf clover in your pocket You are very lucky Be open to the positive, you seem to avoid anything you feel is too good to be true Stop doing this, the doubt will only bring in the negative

Horoscopes

with Tina Graziano Energy Reader

Tina Graziano was born an energy reader. She uses her gifts to heal and guide others as a life coach. If you need support and insight in life, contact Tina for an energy reading directly online at https://www.facebook.com /Tina.Graziano.Energy.Read

Showtimes

October 29,

Showtimes for

Black Adam 12:00p.m. 12:30p.m. 3:00p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:10p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:10p.m. 9:40p.m.

Showtimes for Ticket to

Ticket to Paradise 1:20p.m. 4:10p.m. 6:50p.m. 9:30p.m.

Showtimes for

Halloween Ends 1:50p.m. 4:30p.m. 7:20p.m. 10:00p.m.

Showtimes for

Smile 1:00p.m. 4:00p.m. 7:00p.m. 9:50p.m.

Showtimes for

Prey for the

Showtimes for

Lyle, Lyle,

Showtimes for

Don't

Showtimes for

The

Showtimes for

1:30p.m. 4:15p.m. 7:10p.m. 9:45p.m.

12:40p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:30p.m.

3:20p.m. 6:20p.m. 9:20p.m.

12:20p.m.

9:25p.m.