MEET CANDIDATESTHE Pages 19-24 The Paris Independent Y o u r C o m m u n i t y N e w s p a p e r The Paris Independent Saturday, September 17, 2022 Y o u r C o m m u n i t y N e w s p a p e r Proudly Serving Paris & Area THIS WEEK In Politics CLASSICS RETURN! Pages 9 FIGUREAWARDED!SKATERS Pages 13 14 In Entertainment HANDS UP... FOR THE HOBBIT! PDF Emailed $3.99/month In Sports Are you ready to make a Move ? Contact me, Your Experienced Local Realtor! Join Playful Fox Productions in Middle Earth as they bring you one of the greatest adventures ever told: J.R.R. Tolkien's THE HOBBIT. The production takes place September 23, 24 and 25 at the #forParis Centre at the Presbyterian Church. Pictured above at a recent rehearsal is Thorin Oakenshield (Richard V Ouellette) surprised by Bard (Alissa Cooper), while Fili (Ashley Rye) and Kili (Tiffany Snow) look on. See more photos and information on page 12. Photo credit Playful Fox Productions Cake fans See Page 3! Hallowe’en Cake Decorating Contest. Email to register for a chance to bake and win $500! Click here
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 2
The Festival & Events Ontario Award Winning (2021) tradition is returning to St. George this weekend September 17 & 18th 10 am to 6 pm Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm Sunday. This event is listed as a top 100 in Ontario and it’s FREE! Over 120 vendors make up the marketplace along with a schedule of events on two stages! For more information visit
Publisher Managing AdvertisingEditorSalesPhotographerNewsReporterNewsReporter
September 18 at 11 am, meeting location is Paris District High School. Register in advance and start collecting your pledges for cancer research fbclid=IwARhttps://run.terryfox.ca/3060/add/registration?0eLte2I0J6wu1Sq5cjoK_To_ei wDZve9qBXj2eA6AqlSa7nyFM9DB4gCI
PO BOX 99900 LA 012 395 STN MAIN PARIS, ON, CANADA N3L 0C3 Email: subscribe@theparisindependent.com
TERRY FOX RUN TOMORROW IN PARIS
STATEMENT
Chris BaileyCarolinaMichelleWhelanMalvasoSaenzZimmer
VIJDp_SoB4frfd4GrBgVsbMaxemyaWjR0E9yGppQCrvjSr2dr4yfCb0est.ca/?fbclid=IwAR3https://stgeorgeapplef
Published Weekly on Saturday
Chris Whelan Casandra Turnbull
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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:
NEED MORE FAIR? The Drumbo Fair takes place September 24th & 25th in Drumbo. Visit their website for more details!
ST. GEORGE APPLEFEST TODAY
The Burford Fair takes place on Saturday, October 8, Sunday, October 9 and Monday, October 10, 2022. All parking on the fairgrounds is FREE! Please NO PARKING on the grass boulevard along Park Street. Visit their website for more details
ART WORKSHOP Enjoy an evening of sketching at the Dog Eared Café on September 20th from 4-6 pm, $40 per person. Event to be held the third Tuesday of every month, with a different focus each workshop September class will introduce how to map out the face! Hosted by Rachelle Laurin from Under the Oak Tree
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
SPOOK MARKET!-September 30th (5pm to 10 pm) & October 1st (4pm to 10 pm) at the Paris Fairgrounds, return of the night market! Come dressed up in your best costume prize for best adult costume will be given! Pop up prizes for kids’ costumes throughout the event. Hosted by All Canadian Events. Food vendors, axe throwing, scare zone, psychics, and other spooky surprises!
Storyweek!next
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 3
“I have questions about logistics and timing of this project compared to downtown road work we know needs to happen in the near future and the Grand River Street North road work that needs to happen,” said Howes, who asked General Manager of Community and Protective Services, Cindy Stevenson, to illustrate a sequential timeline of how things will unfold. Stevenson said staff is working with the operations department to ensure the fire hall project is not impacted by the road work and vice-versa. She turned the floor over to Rob Walton, general manager of operations, to answer Howes’question.
department to clearly outline the project, so citizens are not concerned with the two projects colliding and the effect it could have on emergency response times.
NORTH END FIRE HALL
By Casandra Turnbull
The hall will be constructed on county-owned land on Scott Avenue in 2024. Councillor Steve Howes said he's happy to see the project move forward but was concerned with some of the logistics and timing.
Essential roadwork on Grand River St N will take place beforehand
SOBEYS
Photo: County of Brant
Continued on page 5
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 4 COMMUNITY NEWS
Councillors discuss logistics of new firehall construction
Howes urged staff members to rely on the communications
“The most important faze of the project, which would impact the fire hall once it is in service is the deep sewer on Grand River Street North and the roundabout on Scott Ave,” said Walton. He said the plan is to tackle the sewer and roundabout in 2023, before the firehall breaks ground.
Members of the Policy Development and Strategic Planning Committee voted in favour of plans to find an Architectural firm to design the new North Paris Fire Station. The topic was discussed at a meeting this past Tuesday, with a few councillors weighing in with questions and comments.
“Residents in north Paris, Ward 2, have observed street work on Market Street.
The new north end fire hall will be located adjacent to Sobeys, beside Paris Veterinary Clinic on Scott Avenue. Construction is slated for 2024.
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 5
NEWS
If they are envisioning that on Grand River Street North, they would have some concerns about the fire department making it to the north part of Paris from its existing location,” said Howes. “Moving forward, if it’s not possible to have the new north fire hall in place before we start digging up the main road in town, please take steps to communicate to people all the measures we are taking to make sure there is no decrease in critical timing of the fire station.”
Councillor Marc Laferriere, outgoing Ward 2 councillor, said he hopes the newly elected council will be supportive of a fire hall design that not only meets the needs of the Fire Department, but also the Laferrierecommunity.noted that the community room in Paris’ current fire station is used frequently. He would like to see a similar design at the North end station to accommodate community groups and organizations looking for community room space. As of right now, county staff is looking at a similar footprint used to construct the three new fire halls built this past year. There are no community rooms in these stations.
COMMUNITY
Ward 1 Councillor John Wheat emphasized this project is not only beneficial to Paris residents, but also residents in Ward 1 that stretch outside of Paris into Glen Morris and towardsAyr. “This is not just about the north end of Paris; it’s about the county,” he said stating this hall will service all of Ward 1 as well. Councillor John MacAlpine agreed, noting he’s received a lot of
feedback from his constituents who are happy to see the project come to light. MacAlpine suggested the County Fire Department reach out to the Ayr Department to see how they can Thecollaborate.FireHall is projected to cost between $4-$5 million. The County of Brant Fire Department has 185 volunteer firefighters working out of stations in Paris, Cainsville, Burford, Mount Pleasant and the Brantford Airport. During the Fire Department’s recruiting process early this year, extra volunteer fire fighters were hired with the the new hall in mind.
According to 2016 census data, there are 130, 296 people living in the Branford Brant riding. That number has obviously increased over the last 6 years.
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 6 COUNTY NEWS
Continued on page 7
A three member commission, directed by the federal government, has suggested changes to the electrical boundaries in Brantford Brant to help combat a growing population in this riding If approved, these proposed changes would take effect in 2025. Currently, Brant County is part of the Brantford Brant County riding. County of Brant communities, Paris, St. George, Burford, Onondaga, Oakland, Middleport, Glen Morris, Scotland and Six Nations and Credit of the Mississaugas, would no longer be under one riding and would be separated into three ridings Paris, Burford, Scotland and Oakland would join Oxford voters in a new Oxford Brant riding, while Glen Morris, St. George, Onondaga and Middleport would become part of a Brantford riding. Six Nations and Credit of the Mississaugas would be part of an expanded Haldimand Norfolk-Six Nations riding.
County councillors had a lot to say about potential changes to the federal electoral boundaries during a policy development and strategic planning meeting on Tuesday evening.
the largest riding in the country, so he doesn’t believe it’s possible for the County to remain under the jurisdiction of one federal riding. “The average parliamentarian is elected with 12,000 votes. I came in third and I had 16,000 votes. People who get elected here get some of the biggest votes in the country,” said Laferriere.
Councillor Steve Howes was concerned with miscommunication spreading in the community. Some residents have approached him with concerns that the municipality will be splitting up.
Under proposed changes from the a federally appointed commission, Brant would no longer be under one riding and would be separated into three ridings Paris, Burford, Scotland and Oakland would join Oxford voters in a new Oxford Brant riding, while Glen Morris, St. George, Onondaga and Middleport would become part of a Brantford riding Six Nations and Credit of the Mississaugas would be part of an expanded Haldimand Norfolk Six Nations riding.
Councillor Marc Laferriere, who has experience running in federal elections, noted that Brantford Brant is
By Casandra Turnbull
Newly proposed changes to federal electoral boundaries a hot topic in Brant
Electedridings.
member of parliament, Brant MP Larry Brock, has his own concerns regarding the upcoming changes. He announced on his social media page last week that since the news broke, he’s met with many stakeholders who are concerned about many integrated and shared services in our current riding. “There are many ways to have your voices heard. At this point, you can submit your written applications to Elections Canada using their interactive mapping tool by September 25,” he states.
He added his office will continue to share information as it becomes available and he’s encouraging constituents to share their concerns by email to larrybrock@parl gc ca
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 7
COUNTY
Adam Crozier, representing the office of the Chief Administrative Officer for the County of Brant, acknowledged it is a tricky subject to approach because of the tight deadline for comments. All written applications, comments, suggestions must be submitted to Elections Canada before September 25th Crozier noted that means council will not have a chance to discuss and ratify any suggestions before the deadline for comment. Mayor David Bailey has already met with MP Larry Brock on two occasions regarding these proposed changes. He’s also sent an email to both Brock and Brant MPP Will Bouma with feedback from the county’s perspective.
Councillor Joan Gatward aired concerns that the newly proposed federal boundaries don’t match provincial boundaries which can and will lead to confusion among constituents
NEWS
While the boundaries for federal electoral votes will change, communities in the County of Brant will remain under one municipality.
wanted to know what stance the Mayor and the County should take when issuing feedback to the commission.
Crozier did clarify that there will be proposed changes coming to the provincial electoral in 2026 that will align with approved changes in the federal
me that is not right The residents deserve better,” Gatward commented.
“I wonder if there is an opportunity for us to do an information brief through our communications department to clarify for people exactly what this means,” he Councillorcommented.Bell
“I think this will make it so confusing for our residents They will say ‘we vote in Oxford when we are connected to Brantford?’ I certainly have my own comments I will forward to the MP and commission. I know it is a difficult job, but they just arbitrarily drew lines to make it fit in the puzzle and to
ADVERTORIAL
be prepared if you need to take time off, plus you will receive many valuable resources and support in your home childcare business, including networking and professional development.
Wee Watch is licensed by the Ministry of Education and has been providing care to families for over 30 years! Providers can join the agency and benefit from their experience, support, and work with the Wee Watch system of programming and safety This combined with the financial incentives currently provided by Wee Watch Brantford Brant makes this a good change, not only for you but for parents and community.
If you’re interested in joining an agency, drop by a Wee Watch information session to learn more!
Providingdevelopment.childcare on your own can be stressful at times and sometimes costlier than anticipated. Working with a licensed agency allows you to
To help facilitate this, the Provincial government is working with the childcare sector in offering financial incentives to aid informal unlicensed providers to join an agency. Parents who currently utilize informal childcare should be encouraging their providers to join a licensed agency so parents can benefit from the 50% fee reduction as of January 1, 2023. Parents can also benefit from the agency with back up care when your provider is sick or on vacation, access to educational programming for your child and in-home monitoring to support child
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 8
Providers needed as National Childcare Plan rolls out
Considering the financial incentives, along with everything that Wee Watch has been providing to both families and Providers for over 30 years, now is the time to call and schedule an in-home interview or attend one of our upcoming information sessions!
The government of Ontario is investing over $2 billion in early years and childcare, which is an increase of over 82% since 2014. The push is on to create more licensed spaces in the private home sector through agencies, which hold a license issued by the Ministry of Education.
To prepare for the event, staff cleared over 100 new vehicles to an offsite location to make way for more than 130 classic cars. There was a wide range of beauties from Ford Model-Ts to 1969 Super Bees and even a modern 2016 Viper aCR Extreme. The Paris Lions Club had their food both set up, there was live entertainment, vendors and raffle prizes
and the local Food Bank.
Photo Credit: Jay Arora
Mike Yarek Dodge Dealership held its annual classic car show on its Dundas Street East lot last Sunday
CLASSIC CARS return to Paris in support of local organizations!
For eight years and counting, the local business has hosted the show as a way to bring classic car enthusiasts together and to raise money for the Paris Lions Club and donations for the local food bank.
“Our staff here at the dealership have a passion for vehicles and a majority of us collect cars as hobby or attend car shows in various locations in Ontario or south of the boarder, so we decided to create our own,” explained dealership owner and long time business man Mike Yarek Sr.
By Casandra Turnbull
“Our family has been ‘car nuts’ long before I was alive,” he said. “My favourite car is our 1970 AAR CUDA,” he added.
Yarek also has a personal reason for holding the event he’s a self proclaimed car nut!
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 9 COMMUNITY NEWS
“This event brings together a team of people to accomplish a goal and that’s to generate money for our local community and HAVE FUN! Sharing stories with familiar faces, families and car enthusiasts, while enjoying a famous Paris Lions’ bacon on a bun and listening to live music is what life’s all about ”
Over 130 classic vehicles, like the ones pictured left, packed into Mike ParisinclassicforEastDundasDealershipDodgeYarekonStreetlastSundaytheannualcarshowsupportofTheLionsClub
organizations. It’s part of the company’s mission to give back and support customers they serve.
Guests who attended were asked to bring a non perishable food item By the end of the day, a full sized RAM 1500 was stuffed full of canned goods and non perishables. It’s a similar tradition Yarek carries out year after year at the Jingle Bell night downtown Paris. Mike Yarek’s has a long history of supporting community events and
The Paris volunteer fire brigade that came wailing over promptly with sirens blazing and lights flashing, in full fire fighting attire, wielding hoses and pickaxes, had nothing more to do than turn off the elements in the stove and open the windows. However, for 15 whole terrifying minutes people hurried home calling out to others “Where’s the fire?!" and evidencing relief when they found out that the fire was not their own Incidentally, the roast was beef, and it was completely ruined!
As a purveyor of local history, I’m always interested to discover that sources of consternation are not unique to our modern advances. One such example of this would be when our cell phones, in addition to radio and television, interrupt our otherwise peaceful existence with bloodcurdling sounds of doom and terror.
For example, about 74 years ago a Paris fire alarm caused plenty of consternation for residents. Fire alarms also did not choose a convenient hour to send their wails and clanging bells, sounding through the town. On a normally peaceful Sunday in June, the alarm that rang at approximately 12 o’clock noon caused plenty of consternation among the members of the congregations of the churches in town. In addition to the fire hall alarm bell downtown, the 1,200-pound bell at the old town hall in Upper Town was also wrung frantically and about 300 town dogs turned towards the sounds, arched their backs, barked, and howled loudly in unison.
The old fire
The cause of this “red alert” was a relatively simple one. A roast in the oven of the D. R. Elwood residence had burned to a crisp owing to the oven elements not having been turned off while the members of the family attended church. The smoke pouring from a window caught the attention of one of the neighbors who turned in the alarm. No damage beyond clouds of smoke resulted
Paris Past
The Paris Independent 10
We all know that this is a modern alert system designed to inform us of a missing person or a dangerous situation, to save lives. So, we find it hard to complain about but when it turns out to be a false alarm or something not quite as urgent as originally thought, then we tend to get a wee bit cranky about it Well as it turns out, this modern nuisance of necessary evil isn’t so modern after all
c1948Dept.FireParisPhoto:ters.FirefighParisnsummousedthatalarmtothe
Double, Double, For Whom the Bell Tolls is Trouble
September 17, 2022
LOCAL HISTORY
By Chris Whelan
LOCAL HISTORY
A look back at the Paris Fire Department 1940s – 70s
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 11
“riddle in the dark” scene
Whimsical children’s classic coming to Paris
The Hobbit opens in Paris next weekend at the #forParisCentre at the Presbyterian Church. Playful Fox Productions is offering three shows, September 23, 24, 25 at 7 pm on each date. Tickets are on sale now on Eventbrite. Now recognized as one of the great classic stories, JRR Tolkien's "THE HOBBIT" tells the story of homebody BILBO BAGGINS and his harrowing, yet exciting journey across Middle Earth. Encouraged by the wizard GANDALF, Bilbo leaves his village, Hobbiton, for the first time and sets off on an adventure with a group of dwarves led by THORIN OAKENSHIELD seeking to reclaim their treasure from the dragon SMAUG. Adapted for the stage by Glyn Robbins, this exciting play tells the entire story of BILBO's adventures, travelling from Hobbiton to Lake Town and back again This play features a large cast of characters: Mercedes Davy as Bilbo, Richard Ouellette as Thorin, Alissa Cooper as Bard, Sean Hauk as Gollum and Malakai Fox as Gandalf
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 12 COMMUNITY NEWS
Playful Fox Productions gears up for The Hobbit next weekend
Left to right; Bombur (Nicole Lemieux), Kili (Brittany Snow), Fili (Ashley Rye), Thorin (Richard V Ouellette), Gandalf (Malakai Fox), Bilbo (Mercedes Davy) and Balin (Rob Curwain) Photos submitted by Playful Fox Productions
therehearsing(Gollum)Sean(Bilbo)DavyMercedesandHaukfamous
Left, Madelyn Tapp, Intermediate Spirit Award
A new set of names will appear on the plaques inside the trophy cases at the Brant Sports Complex as local figure skaters were honoured with awards on Thursday. The Paris Figure Skating Club awarded skaters with top honours in achievement, spirit, dedication, enthusiasm and overall love for the sport.
Club President Lisa Campbell congratulated all the skaters who took home awards following a successful 2021/2022 season.
PAGE
Left, Lindsey Andrews receives the Joan Sherman Golden Blade award; Below Camryn Wilson with the Robin Prine Award
Figure skaters honoured during annual awards evening
The Spirt Award recognizes skaters’ enthusiasm and love for the sport, their willingness to both receive and respond positively to constructive feedback from coaches and their ability to interact with their peers in a supportive and encouraging manner. The award is recognized amongst all age and skill level. This year the following skaters were honoured: CanSkate level Henry Bartscher, Jaxson Bishop, Soleil Eliovitz, Gabbie Homewood and Lily Zammit; Junior level Azeezah Akinyemi and Fareedah Akinyemi; Cont’d
CanSkate Spirit Award Winners BartscherHenryandLily Zammit
“With another year of many unknowns due to covid, these skaters persevered and continued to make the best of their time on the ice. Their dedication to the sport of figure skating and our club is an amazing accomplishment,” said Campbell.
PARIS FAIR ¼
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 13 SPORTS
By Casandra Turnbull
Kim Meszaros accepted the Outstanding Skater Award, given to an athlete who works hard to develop their abilities and to excel in the sport. In addition to athletic ability, Kim acts as a role model for other athletes as well as demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship both on and off the ice.
Outside specialized awards, skaters were also recognized for their achievements throughout the year. These awards are determined by the skaters who achieve the most points for tests passed within their level. The CanSkate achievement is based on the number of ribbons and badges passed. Here is a list of this year’s recipients (listed in order of top achievement): Junior division Ella Ballard, Kyra Gorter and Siena Lui and Alex Meyer; Intermediate division Abby MacDonald, Ava DeSousa, Ella Dobrucki, Isabella Hoffman and Breanne Pike, Maggie Donkers, Natalie McGregor and Tianna Tone; Senior division Abbey Dubecki, Heidi Groh and Avery Furtado; CanSkate division Arlie Buitenwerf, Kennedy Cummings and Emmy Miaco and Avery Belanger, Kolby Brown, Olivia Connerty and Hailey Leppard. There is space available in all programs for the fall/winter season. The CanSkate registration will remain open until September 30th . Visit https://www.parisfigureskating.org/ for more information.
SPORTS
“Congratulations to Byron on the Volunteer Award. With his many years of dedication on being on the board of directors and contribution to the club above and beyond his coaching time, myself, our club and the coaches and the skaters are truly supportive of his expertise and the time he dedications to make us a better skating club,” said Campbell.
Intermediate level Madelyn Tapp and Tianna Tone; Senior level Edie Cowan, Samantha Hutchinson and Erin Plaquet; Teen/Adult level Dalyce Dostal and Sherry Osinga. Camryn Wilson was given the Robin Prine Award in memory of Robin Prine. This award is presented to Camryn for her dedication, commitment and enthusiasm for skating.
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 14
Above Senior Spirit Award winners Samantha Hutchinson and Erin Plaquet
The Joan Sherman Golden Blade Award, in memory of the Paris coach, is awarded to a skater who demonstrations a willingness to give of themselves and to help others, thereby promising goodwill and a love of the sport. Lindsey Andrews was honoured this year for the significant amount of time she volunteered to help coach younger skaters, contributing to the success of the club’s programs. Recognizing the club wouldn’t survive without the dedication of volunteers, a special Volunteer Award was created three years ago to award an individual with outstanding volunteerism, a true reflection of their passion and dedication to the club. Any member or coach can submit nominations for this award. This year’s recipient is Byron Sheldrick.
Byron Sheldrick is this year’s Volunteer Award recipient for his countless hours and dedication to the club. All photos submitted by the Paris Figure Skating Club
PRESS RELEASE For a team literally comprised of rookies, Monday the Paris Mounties ended their exhibition series with a 3 2 win against the Dundas Blues Aiden Switzer counted for two goals and Tyler Hill Griffeon potted the game winning power play goal with under two minutes to play in the third period
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 15 SPORTS
by Michelle Malvaso
Mounties pick up exhibition win over Dundas
The Mounties look to be a fast skating, aggressive addition to the PJHL Doherty division, offering great entertaining hockey away or at home The Mounties’ PJHL season resumed last night with the first game of the season in Tavistock against the Braves Details of the game were not available by press deadline
Photo: 519 Sports Online
The regular season resumes tonight with the home opener at the Brant Sports Complex as the Mounties take on the Hespeler Shamrocks. Puck drops at 7:30 pm. The Blueline Club will be open and the ever-popular 50/50 draw returns. Admission is
Finn Larmer, from Brantford, was recently announced as the Paris Mounties 2022/2023 Team Captain.
$10, children 12 and under are Infree.other Paris Mounties news, this week team owner Todd Wood announced that Finn Larmer, from Brantford, is the new team captain.
Factory Basketball Academy (FBA) is offering a seven week indoor session for both levels of play at North Ward School, starting October 3 & 4th . The program is aimed at players ages 8 14 and as the academy grows, more programs will be offered, said Matt Lue Hue, a representative from FBA. There are plans to include a high school age session, a men’s league, introduction to children under 8 and competitive travel teams The academy operates exclusively out of Paris, although all Brant County athletes are welcome to join.
New basketball league to debut in Paris next month
16The Paris Independent September 17, 2022 SPORTS
By Casandra Turnbull
The skills development program will focus on building player confidence by teaching players how to develop their skills and teach them when and how to use them in competition
“This town has a peaceful, family oriented environment that people from all over Ontario come and want to be apart of In addition, there are no basketball clubs/programs based in Paris that addresses the growing demand for the sport,” said Lue Hue. He’s got 20 years of player development and coaching under his belt. He’s assisted and coached over 700 athletes, many of which have played in post secondary schools and some who’ve went on to play professionally overseas. Lue Hue is certified under NCCP Level
The program promises to be interactive, fun and inspiring for young athletes looking to grow within the sport. The house league program will begin with an evaluation period and then players will be placed on teams and assigned a coach. The remaining weeks will feature practices and games with a round robin format playoff at the end.
The idea for the academy developed in 2019 but the plans were shelved when the pandemic hit. The Factory Basketball Academy was officially founded in June of this year, according Lue-Hue, in an email with the Paris Independent What attracted the Academy to Paris, he said, was the town’s beauty and the way the community engages and works together to make Paris what it is today.
3 and has completed certification in athletic psychology, athletic nutrition and injury Registrationprevention. is open now for the first seven week session that starts in October. There was an in person registration on September 12th , however, you can still register by email to basektballfactoryparis@gmail com or through their Facebook account.
Another sports organization is debuting in Paris next month bringing the opportunity for basketball enthusiasts to play competitive or beginner ball in Thetown.
PDHS PANTHERS FOOTBALL IS BACK!
SPORTS
16th for a JHSS Jamboree from 1pm to 3pm
PDHS Jr. Panthers Training Camp 2022. Photo: Coach Steve Fergus
The next set of games will be in Paris at Panthers Stadium on Saturday September 24th , with the Jr’s Home Opener at 11:00am and the Seniors Game 2 at 1:00pm. The Paris Optimist Club will be hosting a barbecue during Paris’s home games on September 24th, and October 15th. Enjoy lunch and support our team! Go Panthers!
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 17
The Sr. Panthers Season opener took place Thursday, September 15th, 2022 @8:00pm vs The St. John’s College SJC Green Eagles at the Bisons Alumni Sports Complex, North Park Collegiate in Brantford. It was a great game with a good effort from all. Unfortunately, the Sr. Panthers fell just a little short with a final score of 21 PDHS 28 SJC The Jr.’s travelled to Cambridge Friday night Sept.
NEWS
Festival takes place on Saturday, September 24 from 9 am to 2 pm. Visit wwwstjamesparis ca for more information
The festival was first held in 1975 with the purpose to raise funds for repairs to the St James’ Parish hall. The Lloyd Millward Hall is now a beautiful bright space which serves not only the church but the wider community. As for the festival, what began as a small church bazaar quickly grew, leading to the Fairgrounds as a venue.
“Our most popular booth will be Kitchen Pantry, which features homemade jams, jellies, relishes, then the Pie Hut which sells out of tasty pies pretty quick. We also have a Home Baking Booth, a Jewelry Booth, Used Books, Junktique, a Children's Area, Home Decor, a Tea Room and a Restaurant serving Raw Carrot soup,” details TheDowney.St.James
Summer is coming to an end but thankfully, community events will continue well into the fall and winter
COMMUNITY
Parisians are excited to see some of their favourite events coming back to normalcy this year after a two year hiatus. Celebrating its 47th year, the St James Festival will be held on September 24th from 9am to 2pm at the Paris Fairgrounds. St James Paris Anglican Church’s Don Downey and Judy Cardy share details of the event, which is sure to please the whole family.
“We had such a good response to our first event that we decided to continue running it. It is more about connecting with the community on a wider scale than just within the parish, we have people from surrounding county's come and take part in the event, as well as travelers who come from farther away who enjoy attending this event,” explains Downey.
While the St James Festival has been celebrated yearly, the pandemic meant that the event was restricted to being held at the St James Church instead of at the Paris Fairgrounds. This year, going back to the Fairgrounds means the event will have more to offer to please those who count on it as a yearly tradition.
By Carolina Saenz
The festival takes an enormous amount of planning and work but after it’s finished, the organizers are already looking forward to next year’s festivities. So, it is no surprise that with so much joy and dedication, the St James Festival has become a Parisian staple
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 18
St. James Festival Celebrating its 47th Year!
A staggering 1,500 guests are expected to attend this year’s festivities Admission to the festival is $2 and includes an entry to a draw for the door prize of a handmade quilt The draw will be held at 2pm. About a dozen different vendors will be available in addition to the highly anticipated Kitchen Pantry booth and two brand new St James specific vendors this year: New To You Clothing (like new clothing for the whole family) and Pet Portraits (watercolour paintings by a local artist).
“It means a great deal for us to be able to return to the Paris Fairgrounds for a true community event. We have come through the past couple years and are excited to welcome back our vendors, convenors, shoppers and lookers and to be able to look to future events held in and for the community,” shares Cardy.
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 19
JENNIFER KYLE
1ST Municipal Election Campaign
While municipal politics has always been an interest, the catalyst for my decision this year was looking at a council photo. Taking nothing away from work done by previous councils, County Council should reflect the reality and diversity of our growing community. We need women, people from underrepresented groups, farmers, and we need a mixture of ages. New perspectives bring new ideas and creative solutions to issues that Therematter.iswork to do to improve access to essential services and
Communications Professional and Farmer
Leading up to the election, we will ask local candidates a series of questions, posed by you, so you can get answers to help you make an informed vote. If you have a question you’d like to pose, please send us an email to stories@theparisindependent.com
infrastructure; ensure development is thoughtful and strategic; advocate for agriculture as our major economic driver; enhance recreational facilities and programming; and ensure regular and transparent communication with residents. My background, communications skillset and wide range of experience will serve me well as a Ward 1 councillor and your voice on Council. Visit my website for more information!
I have called County of Brant home for over 15 years My husband and I operate a dairy, beef, lamb and cash crop farm with our family northwest of Paris As is common for many multi generational and young farming families, I also work off of the farm My day job is serving as Manager of Public Engagement and Digital Strategy at the Beef Farmers of Ontario
Get to know the people who want to represent you
This week we are asking ‘Why did you run for council?’ Here is what the candidates had to say:
This week The Paris Independent will introduce candidates running in Ward 1 & 5. If you missed last week’s edition, check it out online to find out what candidates in the Mayoral, Ward 2 & Ward 3 had to say!
The municipal election is Monday, October 24th . There is a race for a seat in every ward, except ward 4 where incumbents Robert Chambers and David Miller were acclaimed.
WARD 1
MUNICIPAL POLITICS Meet the Candidates
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 20
I also represented Brant in boundary adjustment meetings
deal of time in my youth working on neighbours’ farms and I have operated MacAlpine Furniture for 40 years now and with my wife Susan for the last 16 years We have been married for 23 years
I grew up south of St. George on Highway 99 and spent a great
Ward 1 Councillor, 1st term
MUNICIPAL POLITICS
Ward 1 Councillor, 5th term
JOHN MACALPINE
the county remains in good shape moving forward
JOHN WHEAT
the course of the next 6 weeks, I look forward to talking to community members and hearing their thoughts and priorities as we shape the future of Ward 1.
community services, which includes parks and recreation and both fire and ambulance services
I feel a great deal of pride in the part I have played in a very busy term of council working throughout Ward 1 and look forward to continuing in the planning and implantation of projects we are currently working on if reelected.
If re elected, my focus will be on building a new fire hall in Paris, continuing to move ahead with solar projects to provide green energy sources in the community, managing coming residential growth as slowly and responsibly as possible, exploring more industrial possibilities to grow job opportunities in the area, continuing to work with our Six Nations partners, continuing to convert gravel roads to hard surfaces.
MacLean’s Magazine a couple of years ago ranked Brant County as one of the top 10 best communities to live in. It has been my greatest priority to try and retain that quality of life that we have created as we grow for all ages. It is going to be a busy term in the ward as development speeds up and it is more important than ever to see it doesn’t get out of control.
WARD 1
My name is John Wheat, I’m currently finishing up my fifth term on Brant County Council and have had the privilege to serve constituents in this ward for nearly 20 years. I’ve chaired various committees, including
Overnow.
I’m running for council again because I’d like to see council stay the course We need continuity and by keeping council matters consistent we can ensure
WARD 1
I’ve also been fortunate to have served as chair of John Noble Home Board of Management I chaired the arena addition to the South Dumfries Community Centre and sat on the committee for the Burford Arena renovation
Lifelong Dairy Farmer Ward 5 Councillor, 5th Term
Traffic concerns and safety are two of the biggest problems everyone faces daily in our communities and on our rural roads Increased traffic and speeding is something we constantly address and will continue to aggressively do so. Hard surfacing of gravel roads and constantly upgrading our many miles of main roadways is ongoing New firehalls in Cainsville and Onondaga are operating for the benefit of our firefighters and safety of our communities. I know proper planning and preserving farmland is the future of our municipality. I also know the province of Ontario ultimately has
As a retiree, I can dedicate time to serving as a Ward 5 councillor. In the last election, I came very close to winning. I am a fourth generation resident of Ward 5. With my husband Richard Tunstall, we focus on medicinal herbs, conservation and ecotourism on our farm.
I have been a councillor in Ward 5 since 2003. Along with my two sons, Pete and Mark, my wife Joan and now our 6 grandkids, I have been a dairy farmer on Country Rd 18 my entire life. We face the challenges of farming everyday, but also know its importance and the rewards it provides. 5
Co owner of Hearts Content Organic Farm, retired Assistant Professor, currently Project Manager of the Langford Conservancy Municipal Campaign for Ward 5, 2014 / 2018
I have served on various committees: Biggars Lane Landfill Liaison, Brant Parts and Recreation (for Ward 5), and the Environmental and Sustainability Policy Advisory Committee. I have experience serving on the Board of Directors for various farm organizations and I currently serve on three committees related to protecting farmland and solidarity with migrant farm workers. I am running because I have a vision for the future of the County of Brant
that I feel many others share: protected farmland and natural heritage; no urban boundary expansion; geared to income housing; smart growth; public transit; green spaces; local environmentally friendly jobs; safety on our farms and our roads; reduced waste going to the landfill through composting, re use, recycle and repair; and inclusive rural communities for all ages.
WARD 5
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 21 MUNICIPAL POLITICS
BRIAN COLEMAN
the final say in a lot of these decisions. As councillors we must work together to try to achieve our goals I believe experience and a common sense approach is necessary moving forward in the County of Brant. I look forward to hearing your concerns and helping to solve your problems in a fiscally responsible way. Serving the rural community is something I have taken very seriously and try to support my constituents in every way I can. Contact me at: brianatbridgeview@gmail com
WARD
ELLA HALEY
1ST Municipal Election
1ST Municipal Election
ADVERT#4
WARD
ensure value for tax dollars. As a rural historian and local entrepreneur, I am deeply committed to maintaining our rural and agricultural heritage. My family and I are actively restoring our Cainsville area farm to agricultural production. Future development must be strategic and sustainable, emphasizing supports for small businesses with connections to our communities.
Owner of Seventh Coffee Company
Co Owner of Creek View Acres and Project Manager at J.B. Landscape Construction Ltd.
WARD 5
to live in Brant’s outlying communities and the need for fresh representation in municipal government. We are ready for well rounded, professional Councillors like me who bring the strong administrative, managerial, and advocacy skills necessary to provide better oversight of County Havingactivities. managed municipal property maintenance, landscape construction, and snow removal contracts, I am well qualified to
“Where’s my missing street sign?” What began as a casual conversation around the farm quickly evolved into a serious discussion about what it means
deserves to be heard, and have their opinion respected. Road safety, the importance of having the correct infrastructure in place prior to development, and the importance of preserving our heritage have come through loud and clear. I will push for what the residents of Ward 5 believe is important, with respect, transparency, and responsiveness. Customer service will be the hallmark of everything I do in council. I will be a phone call, email or text message away.
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 22
MIKE GATOPOULOS
My name is Mike Gatopoulos. I live in the beautiful village of Mount Pleasant within Ward 5 along with my wife, and our combined five children. One of my children, Jack, has special needs, and sharing in his journey has shown me the importance of community, inclusivity, 5
MUNICIPAL POLITICS
Continued on page 23
collaboration, and lifelong learning. This journey led me to join the board of directors for Lansdowne Children’s Centre. I sit on the Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) for Grand Erie District School Board. I have also founded Seventh Coffee Company, which operates as a social enterprise giving back to the community. These experiences give me a unique perspective that I will bring to council.
I’ve built a platform based on community input. Every citizen
Christine Garneau
With a background in public sector governance, I am process oriented and bring proven experience engaging stakeholders at the right stages to ensure meaningful
MUNICIPAL POLITICS
JEANNINE FORBES
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 23
If we can begin to accommodate the rural Brant matters of fair taxation; shared growth; and renewed respect for the vitality, security, and traffic safety of country living, then the future bounty of the County is immense
Oakland, former museum archivist, retail manager, industrial management consultant, newspaper columnist, college instructor
WARD 1
programs and services in their home communities, preserving productive agricultural lands, and protecting environmentally sensitive areas.
WARD 5
to thousands of acres of Brant County farmland, Paris is pretty puny. Yet planning policy directs all major development to Paris as if it were the centre of the municipal universe. However, the rural hinterland is still taxed at Paris
Active retiree at Wildflower Grove Farm
JOHN STARKEY
rates. Everyone pays the full tariff, but chiefly only Paris reaps the Allbenefitsthewhile, rural areas have seen their local businesses, amenities & services dwindle This means the death of rural Brant Peripheral blight spreads The whole can only be as healthy as the sum of all of its ThepartsProvincial government is eager to build highways and housing We can partner in these initiatives, cooperating with our regional neighbours, and enhance and develop the communities that
In last week’s ‘Municipal Politics’ section, the job description for Ward 2 candidate Steve Howes, contained an error. “Marketing and International Sales, Paris Playground Equipment” was Steve’s job title 30 years ago. Today, the company is called PlayPower Canada and Steve is Playground Design and Sales. We apologize for the error.
City of Brantford Councillor, 1978 2006
already dot the rural landscape, while avoiding uninspired suburban sprawl Even fans of ‘The prettiest little town in Canada’ lament, “They’ve ruined ‘MoreParis” of the same’ cannot be the way forward
I am in this election to rebalance local government
Comparedpriorities.
CORRECTION
Jeannine’s responses were not received as of press deadline. She is a registered candidate for Ward https://www.voteforbes2022.com/1.
consultation. I believe residents are ready for responsive Councillors like me who are in touch with current ward issues including road improvements and safety, access to County
In spirit of The Year of the Garden, The County of Brant opened a Year of the Garden Virtual Tour & Photo Contest. The County thanked all the residents who participated. The Paris Independent has shared a few entries below. To see all the entries, visit brant.ca/virtualmap.
The Canadian Nursery Landscape Association and the Canadian Garden Council proclaimed 2022 as the Year of the Garden. The initiative aimed to inspire and inform Canadians about the many health and well being, economic and environmental benefits of gardening. With a call for everyone to ‘live the garden life,’ you didn’t have to be an expert to participate, although judging by some of these photos, there may have been a few experts who participated!
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 24 COMMUNITY NEWS
You can vote until September 20th online on the county’s Facebook page as well. The winner will receive a Walter’s Greenhouses Gift card.
Have you voted on the best garden in Brant County?
Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water)- Happiness is on its way. You have options in your career You have a connection in your love life. If you are single, you feel very optimistic and at peace with the way things are going for you This energy is great to have and use to make your life better
Horoscopes with Tina EnergyGrazianoReader
Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water)-You do not want to disappoint anyone. Unfortunately this week you find yourself doing just that. Relationships begin to show cracks Career is one mess after another You have to take your control back and stop the spiral By the time you do this you will have to then play fixer and cleaner upper for a couple days.
You are going to have to balance your finances this week It is important to find a way to make more money If not, the financial burdens spill over into your life creating a lot of stress. You are going to have to find a creative way to fix this
Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth)- You are healing from disappointments. You are not healing fast enough for your liking. You're starting to shift focus onto your love life. You make plans to have a break away from everything that is causing you any sadness, so you can get your groove back in time to enjoy the weekend.
Gemini: May 21 June 20 (Air)
Your love life is in the spotlight But it may not be for good reasons People that care about you will be voicing their concerns about the choices you have been making lately Even your career needs some attention Do some soul searching and you will be back on track by the weekend.
Taurus: April 20 May 20 (Earth)
You have been thinking about a love interest a lot lately. It is starting to affect your ability to focus. You want to connect with someone on an intimate level, but you have no idea how This is not the week to make any big changes right now. Reach out and have some conversation with people who can guide you.
Your feelings matter You want to be appreciated in love and career. Keep pushing for the respect you deserve. You have been spending a lot lately. Sit down and find a way to save or make some extra money This will relieve stress
September 17, 2022The Paris Independent 25
Aries: March 21 April 19 (Fire)
Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire)-
ASTROLOGY
Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air)- Focus on your mental health. Take the time to find a way to ask for the help you need. You have decided you want to have a healthy mind, body and soul. Now comes the hard part Do some work to accomplish this Conversation, exercise, meditation do whatever it takes to find mental peace.
Everything this week is like pulling teeth With every set back your frustration builds. You do have to go through it, but you could do some things to make it more bearable. You have great friends, use them. Find a way to relax, you will be calm and peaceful by mid week
Capricorn: December 22 January 19 (Earth) Having a lazy week. You just do not feel like doing anything It would be a great week to be on vacation. If you're not able to take a break then you will struggle with finding the energy to accomplish even the simplest of tasks Funny how the weekend brings back your spark though.
Aquarius: January 20February18 (Air)- Great connections can be made this week. You feel drawn to certain people in career and love. You are seeking out individuals that motivate and inspire you If you focus this on your love life, you will make a magical bond.
Sagittarius: November 22 December 21 (Fire)- You have the ability to be a very passionate person. This week brings opportunities to you to show just how passionate you can be Once you choose a path there is no stopping you from completing your goals successfully. Choose wisely.
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 er/?ref=page_internal
Cancer: June 21 - July 22 (Water)-
The Paris Independent 26 https://www.theoxforddrivein.com September 17, 2022 FINAL WEEKEND
Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday September 17, 2022
Top Gun: Maverick 12:50p.m. 3:10p.m. 6:15p.m. 9:20p.m.
Barbarian 1:40p.m. 4:30p.m. 7:10p.m. 10:00p.m.
Pearl 12:20p.m. 4:00p.m.6:50p.m. 9:30p.m.
See How They Run 2:00p.m. 4:40p.m. 7:20p.m. 9:55p.m.
Bullet Train 12:10p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:45p.m.
The Invitation 9:25p.m.
DC League of Super-Pets 11:20a.m. 1:30p.m. 4:20p.m.
The Woman King 11:50a.m. 3:10p.m. 6:30p.m. 9:40p.m.
Minions: The Rise of Gru 1:00p.m. 3:40p.m.
Thor: Love and Thunder 7:00p.m. 9:50p.m.
Little Sorcerer 11:00a.m.