The Paris Independent for Wednesday July 22nd 2026

A CENTURY OF SERVICE

Members of Paris Legion Branch 29 marked the Royal Canadian Legion's 100th anniversary with cake and a community barbecue on Saturday, July 18, just one of a series of local events leading up to the branch's own centennial celebration this October. In addition to recognizing a century of service to Veterans and their families, Branch 29 is inviting the community to take part in several commemorative projects, including a national remembrance mural and the creation of large poppy blanket displays for Remembrance Day. Pictured, left to right, are Roy Haggart, Chuck Prystupa, Rick Cudmore and Barry Humphrey, with Henry Foster seated in the front. See story on page 11.

Council rejects hydrovac slurry processing plant

CASANDRA TURNBULL Managing Editor

County of Brant council overwhelmingly rejected a controversial proposal to permit a hydrovac slurry processing facility on Curtis Avenue North last Tuesday night, siding with

residents and neighbouring businesses after nearly two hours of detailed presentations questioning the project's compatibility with the surrounding area.

Despite a recommendation from planning staff to approve the rezoning, council voted to deny the application by a decisive margin, with

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Airport land proposal scaled back

The City of Brantford and the County of Brant have scaled back the proposed Brantford Municipal Airport boundary adjustment following public feedback, removing 469 acres of agricultural land from the original proposal. After a public engagement process held throughout May and June, both municipal councils agreed to revise the proposed boundary adjustment map, reducing the transfer area to 848 acres from the original 1,317 acres. The updated proposal also removes lands associated with a potential transportation corridor being studied as part of the City of Brantford's West Brant Access Route Environmental Assessment. Municipal officials noted in a press release issued early last week that the environmental assessment remains ongoing and is separate from the airport boundary adjustment process.

The changes closely mirror many of the concerns voiced by residents in recent months throughout the consultation process, and in letters submitted to the Paris Independent particularly around the protection of farmland and the potential connection between the airport lands transfer and the proposed West Brant Access Route.

A letter to the editor submitted to The Paris Independent by Brantford resident and farmer Adam Parsons focused on protecting agricul-

Council rejects controversial hydrovac facility after residents dismantle staff recommendation

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only councillors Lukas Oakley and John MacAlpine supporting the proposal. Councillor Brian Coleman abstained because he had not been present for the discussion.

The application, submitted by Zelinka Priamo Ltd. on behalf of DCH Group Inc., sought to amend the zoning at 40 Curtis Ave. N. from Heavy Industrial (M3) to a site-specific Heavy Industrial (M3-35) zone permitting a hydrovac slurry processing facility, which is a use not currently permitted under the County's zoning bylaw. County planning staff concluded the proposal conformed with the Official Plan, was compatible with the surrounding employment lands and was consistent with provincial planning policy, recommending council approve the amendment.

Instead, council chambers were packed with residents, business owners and community organizations who challenged many of the assumptions contained within the staff report, raising concerns about noise, contaminated materials, groundwater protection, truck traffic, environmental risks and the proximity of the proposed operation to sensitive community uses.

Among the most detailed presentations came from Ted and Robin Horsfall, owners of Horsfall Auto at 50 Curtis Ave. N., who commissioned their own review of the applicant's noise analysis after leaving an earlier planning meeting dissatisfied with the responses they received.

"We definitely oppose this application based on noise," said Robin Horsfall. "We were at a planning meeting earlier and didn't really come out of all that happy. We were asking for mitigation on noise on our behalf. When I left the meeting there was no mitigation going to be done."

Ted Horsfall argued the applicant's noise study overlooked nearby sensitive land uses, including Jason's Wheelhouse, located roughly 30 metres from the proposed facility.

"Interestingly the hydrovac slurry plant's noise impact study deemed Curtis Ave South 300 metres away from 40 Curtis Ave. N. was the most sensitive land use in direct contradiction to the neighbour Jason's Wheelhouse located within 30 metres from the hydro vac slurry plant's fence line," he said.

He also questioned why nearby recreational trails and the Health Hub were omitted from the analysis. His presentation drew applause from the packed council chambers.

Janice Knill, founder and executive director of Jason's Wheelhouse, told council the proposed facility would sit just 32 metres from the organization's property, where 89 children and adults of all abilities receive programming.

"Forty of 89 individuals we support have epilepsy or another form of seizure disor-

der," she said.

"The safety concerns and distance in our facility is not something we want to deal with. Jason's Wheelhouse is 32 metres from the proposed site."

"This affects our business, our staff, our families and specifically the children and adults that are sensitive to pressure, headaches, noise, with medical issues and heart conditions."

Resident Christine Turple challenged the fundamental planning rationale behind the application, arguing council was being asked to rewrite the zoning bylaw to accommodate a use that clearly fell outside the intent of the existing industrial designation.

"It's not an auto body shop. It's not a dry cleaning facility, it's not an impound yard. It's not a food processing plant. This is waste processing," she said.

"And now we are looking to massage the M3 zoning to fit this. We are massaging the M3 zoning to allow a private company to create a waste processing facility close to residents and established businesses. Why spend all that time developing long-term strategic plans for our county, establishing clear zoning areas just to amend them as we see fit down the line?"

Dozens of written submissions echoed those concerns, questioning groundwater protection, truck traffic, environmental impacts and whether the use belonged in an M4 waste-management zone rather than being added through a site-specific M3 exception. A community petition opposing the application was also submitted to the County.

Several councillors said the public presentations significantly shaped their decision.

Coun. John Peirce praised residents for the work they put into researching the application.

"Kudos for people who came up and spoke here and doing their homework before coming," he said before questioning the handling of wastewater, contaminated materials and the public notification process. He also criticized the fact that no residential properties fell within the County's 125-metre notification radius despite many homes lying within a broader area affected by the proposal.

"That's something we got to work on," Peirce said.

Coun. Steve Howes said many of the questions he intended to ask had already been addressed by residents.

"I came into this meeting with a lot of questions and I have to admit that the residents asked many of them," he said.

"I found the arguments posed by the residents very, very compelling."

After learning there could be situations where contaminated material might arrive on site before testing identified it, Howes said he could no longer support staff's rec-

ommendation.

"This is a scenario where I cannot support a staff recommendation," he said.

Coun. John Bell questioned why staff had not directed the applicant toward a more suitable location from the outset.

"Why was this application not denied on the spot? Or to be more productive why didn’t our economic development team seek to help the developer find a more appropriate site?" he asked.

Bell later said he believed there were better locations in the County for the operation and warned against creating a precedent through repeated site-specific zoning exceptions.

"I would hate for us to get to the point where people lose their trust in the zoning system," Bell said.

Coun. Robert Chambers also questioned whether the proposal represented the highest and best use of one of the County's limited fully serviced heavy industrial properties.

"We should refuse this application be-

cause there are probably more appropriate uses for this lot," Chambers said.

Mayor David Bailey told the applicant he hoped the decision would not discourage future investment in the County.

"Our staff will find you something more suitable," Bailey said.

"But I don't think you should come and disrupt people. I don't think that is cool at all."

Planning staff had maintained throughout the process that the proposal represented a compatible industrial use within the County's General Employment designation, would generate approximately 20 truck trips per day, create minimal dust, and would not process contaminated materials under normal operations.

Staff further concluded the application was consistent with the Provincial Planning Statement and the County's Official Plan.

Council ultimately disagreed, rejecting the zoning amendment and bringing months of public opposition to a close.

Brantford, County shrink proposed airport boundary adjustment after public feedback

County public meeting set for July 29 in Paris

tural land, describing the affected properties as "productive farmland" that contributes to the local economy, food supply and rural heritage. He wrote that once farmland is lost, "it is rarely recovered," and expressed concern the annexation could become "the first step toward additional urban encroachment into surrounding agricultural lands."

According to the two municipalities, the revisions were made in direct response to public input received through the Let's Talk Brantford online engagement portal, two public open houses held June 11 at Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course, and emails and phone calls submitted by residents.

Officials said the revised map reflects a commitment by both municipalities to ensure public feedback plays a meaningful role in shaping proposals of this significance. Residents are encouraged to review the updated boundary adjustment map, which is now available on the Let's Talk Brantford website. The online engagement portal has also reopened to collect additional public feedback on the

revised proposal. Further opportunities for public input will be provided through two upcoming statutory public meetings before councils consider the updated proposal.

The City of Brantford will hold its statutory public meeting on Monday, July 27, at 6 p.m. in council chambers at Brantford City Hall, 58 Dalhousie St. The County of Brant will follow with its statutory public meeting on Wednesday, July 29, at 6 p.m. in council chambers at the County Administration Building, 7 Broadway St. W. in Paris.

Details on how residents can participate in both meetings will be released before the meeting dates.

In a joint statement, the City of Brantford and the County of Brant thanked residents, landowners and community members who participated in the consultation process.

Municipal officials said the public's feedback "has made a meaningful difference to this proposal" and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, accountability and continued public engagement as the process moves forward.

More information, including the revised boundary adjustment map, is available through the Let's Talk Brantford engagement portal.

Writers of Brant donates book proceeds to Lions scholarship

Members of the Writers of Brant recently presented a donation to the Paris Lions Club, fulfilling a promise made when the group published its first anthology, Tapestry of Tales & Poetry. Released last fall, the collection features fiction, non-fiction and poetry by 12 local writers and grew out of the Writers of Brant group, which began through a County of Brant Library program and continues to meet twice monthly at the Burford Library. As announced at the book's launch, proceeds from sales were earmarked for the Paris Lions Club's scholarship fund, helping support local students pursuing post-secondary education. Pictured during the cheque presentation are (left to right) Agi Abert, Debbie Smith, John Harvey, Paris Lions Club member Ted Bickell, Suzanne Craig-Whytock, Cheryl Cudmore and Carol Madou.

The revised proposed Brantford Municipal Airport boundary adjustment map removes 469 acres of agricultural land and eliminates lands associated with the proposed West Brant Access Route transportation corridor, reducing the total transfer area from 1,317 acres to 848 acres following public feedback.

Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!

The Paris Independent

Publisher Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com

Editor

Chris Whelan • editor@theparisindependent.com

Managing Editor

Casandra Turnbull • managingeditor@theparisindependent.com

Graphic Design

Michelle Foster • parisindependentnews@gmail.com

Business Development

Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com

Billing Administrator Jen Gaetan • jen@granthaven.com

Contributors

Michelle Malvaso, George Le Gresley, Rubyyy Jones, Heidi Pfleger, Paul Knowles, Karon Sinning, Jeff Johnston, Wayne Wilkinson, Emma Bowman, Gary Chalk

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Sign dispute reflects ongoing construction challenges for businesses

Managing Editor

A disagreement over signs attached to construction fencing in downtown Paris has sparked a broader conversation about how businesses are promoted during the County of Brant's ongoing downtown reconstruction project.

The issue came to public attention after an interaction between County representatives and a few downtown business owners on Monday, July 13, regarding signs that had been installed on construction fencing outside their stores. While the exchange prompted discussion within the community, both the County and the business owners say the dispute centres on signage policies.

The concerns outlined in this article reflect the views of the two business owners involved in the incident and are not necessarily representative of all downtown businesses affected by the construction project. The Paris Independent did not reach out to all businesses for comments.

Earlier this month, when the downtown promenade opened and construction fencing was removed from a portion of Grand River Street North, the remaining fenced construction area was covered with black screening. The screening was installed, in part, to improve the appearance of the construction zone and shield equipment from public view.

Leah Thomas, owner of Suzanne's of Paris, said she and Rita Hollis, owner of Reiker by LJ Shoes, attached their own promotional signs to the black-screened construction fencing after it was installed. Thomas said the solid black barrier created the impression that the street ended, making it more difficult for customers to realize businesses beyond the fencing remained open.

"Myself, Leah Thomas, and Rita the owner from Reiker shoes put up our signs when the black tarp went up on the fence," explained Thomas. "It [the tarp] made the street look like it ended there."

Because fencing remains in front of both businesses, Thomas said they wanted customers to know the stores remained open despite the construction.

"It's very important the signs go back up as it directed customers to know shopping doesn't end at the black wall," she said.

Thomas said the prolonged downtown reconstruction continues to affect businesses financially.

"Sales are down. Traffic flow reduced," she said, adding business owners have endured two years of construction with no direct financial compensation beyond loan opportunities. She also expressed frustration over what she described as delays in implementing wayfinding signage into downtown after raising the issue with the County earlier this year.

"This should have been completed before construction started! It's funny how the town and the construction companies can put up signage when they are not the ones losing business or pay checks,"

neighbouring businesses, pop-up events on the downtown promenade and improvements funded through the County's Community Improvement Program, which nine businesses have accessed over the past two years. The County also noted businesses may display one sandwich board sign in accordance with the municipal sign bylaw, provided it is located near the storefront, maintains required sidewalk clearance and is displayed only during business hours.

County officials said they remain committed to supporting downtown businesses throughout the reconstruction project and continue to encourage businesses to contact the Economic Development and Tourism team with requests for signage or promotional opportunities.

Thomas said.

Thomas also questioned why business signs were removed while other signage remained on the fencing.

"When I asked Erica [the downtown dig liaison] why the removal of the signs, she said there was no room for them. So, I said but there is for the town’s signs and the construction company’s signs? She said if she did it for us where would it end?” Thomas questions, why should it end? “Shouldn't anyone’s business affected downtown be able to put up a sign if it helps get us through the second year of construction?"

Thomas asked.

The County of Brant, however, says the issue is governed by an established approval process because the fencing is owned by the project's contractor, Navacon, rather than the municipality.

According to a County spokesperson, all signage requests for the fencing must be coordinated through the Downtown Construction Liaison and the contractor.

"The fencing is owned/leased and installed by Navacon, the contractor responsible for the project, and not by the County of Brant," the spokesperson said.

The County explained it has worked with Navacon throughout construction to install fencing signage focused on public safety, project information, local heritage features and promotional messaging benefiting the downtown as a whole, including "Businesses Are Open," "Shop Local" messaging, free parking information and downtown business directories.

County officials said businesses have been advised they may use fencing panels outside their storefronts with prior approval, provided the signage is coordinated with neighbouring businesses and existing County messaging.

According to the County, the signs installed by the two businesses replaced County-installed promotional signage without following the established approval process.

"Recently, County-installed signage was removed and replaced with signage featuring a limited number of businesses. This change was not coordinated through the established process or communicated to

the County," the spokesperson said.

The County said its downtown directory signs, located at six locations throughout the core, are intended to promote every downtown business equally. Paper directories are also distributed through local businesses, County facilities, tourism locations and outdoor kiosks, while online versions are also available.

Officials added that businesses have several other options to promote themselves during construction, including social media marketing, collaborative promotions with

"When the project began, all businesses were invited to provide input into signage needs. The process for using the construction fencing has remained consistent with last year and is intended to ensure a coordinated and fair approach," the spokesperson said.

Thomas said she was not aware that Navacon owned the fencing and said it was not pointed out to her until councillor John Bell reached out via social media. Thomas added that she plans to speak with Navacon about the signage and construction fencing in hopes of having the business signs reinstated.

This

CASANDRA TURNBULL

A community newspaper has never been about one person, one neighbourhood or one generation. At its heart, it exists to reflect the people who call this community home.

That means celebrating accomplishments, recognizing milestones, reporting on council decisions that affect daily life, highlighting local sports, promoting community events and sharing the human-interest stories that remind us why we choose to live here. Every edition should be a

snapshot of our community at that moment in time.

But no newspaper can tell every story without the help of the people it serves.

If you've ever picked up the paper and wished there were more stories that reflected your interests, your family, your generation or your corner of the community, we encourage you to be part of the solution.

You don't have to be a writer. You don't need journalism experience. All you need is an idea.

Know someone doing something remarkable? Has your neighbour just completed a marathon or won a provincial

championship? Are local students making a difference? Is there a community initiative, fundraiser or event that deserves attention? Maybe the children down the street are hosting a lemonade stand for a cause close to their hearts.

Those are stories worth telling.

The Paris Independent is here to shine a light on the people, organizations and moments that make our community unique. Sometimes those stories begin with a simple email from a resident who says, "I thought you should know about this."

Send your news tips, story ideas or editorial submissions to stories@theparisindependent.com. Every suggestion is read, and sometimes our stories begin with someone taking a few minutes to reach out.

Not long ago, this community had no local newspaper at all. For years, there was no dedicated publication documenting our achievements, asking questions at council meetings, celebrating our volunteers or preserving the stories that become part of our local history.

Today, we have that voice. Let's use it. More importantly, let's use it together. A newspaper should never belong solely to the people who produce it. It belongs to the community that fills its pages. The broader the participation, the stronger that voice becomes.

Above all else, we want The Paris Independent to remain a place where positive community news can thrive. While we will always report on important issues and hold decision-makers accountable, we also believe there is tremendous value in celebrating the people who make this community such a special place to live.

No story is too small if it matters to someone. Our goal has always been to reach the entire community, not a selective audience, but everyone. Young and old(er). Families and individuals.

Lifelong residents and newcomers. Athletes, artists, entrepreneurs, volunteers, students and neighbours. This newspaper is strongest when it reflects all of those voices. Help us tell your story.

Downtown businesses need support, not more barriers Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

I was downtown Monday morning doing a little local shopping, and I witnessed something that really bothered me.

A few of the businesses that aren't directly in the promenade area were visited by the County's construction liaison. These businesses had put up signs on the construction fencing to let people know they were still open and where to find them. Considering how much construction has affected our downtown, I thought it was a simple, reasonable way to help customers find them.

Instead, I watched those signs being removed.

What upset me even more was the way it was handled. One business owner was spoken to in a tone that I felt was unnecessary, especially in front of customers. The owner remained calm and professional despite being visibly upset.

I genuinely don't understand the harm in those signs. They weren't offensive,

they weren't blocking anything, and they were simply directing people to local businesses that are fighting to survive during months of construction. They had reportedly been up for about a week without issue.

I was under the impression that the County and the construction liaison were there to support our downtown businesses through this difficult project. What I witnessed today felt like the opposite.

Our downtown business owners have shown incredible patience, resilience, and determination. They deserve encouragement, respect, and practical solutions—not more obstacles.

If we truly want a thriving downtown after this construction is over, we need to support the businesses that are working so hard to make it through.

I hope the County reconsiders its approach and works with these business owners instead of against them.

Beverley Gray

Meet Me in Paris This Summer

RACHELLE ROUSSEAU

If it’s been a while since your last visit, consider this your invitation.

Come for coffee and browse a new favourite shop. Meet a friend for lunch, take a walk by the river, and stay a little longer than you planned.

One of the things that makes Paris special is that no two visits are ever the same. The shop owners remember your name, your daily coffee shop pick-me-up turns into a conversation you didn’t know you needed; and you always leave discovering something new. Paris is not a destination to be rushed. It’s a place for wandering without an agenda. Where community is more than a word - it’s a feeling.

Downtown Paris has always been defined by its people. If “small town charm” had a face, it would be the locals that live and work here. Sometimes it takes seeing Paris through someone else’s eyes to remember just how special it is. If you’ve ever spent time talking with visitors you’ve probably heard them say “I wish I lived somewhere like this”. They’re drawn to the slower pace, the welcoming business owners, the river views, and our sense of community. It’s a reminder that what feels familiar to us, is something truly special, and that we’re incredibly fortunate to call Paris home.

With summer in full swing and our new temporary promenade open, downtown

Paris is full of reasons to stop by. Live music, adult recess, yoga and Zumba are all regulars making an appearance on the promenade this summer. The improvements happening downtown are creating an even more welcoming place to experience everything our community has to offer.

Sidewalk Sundays have begun. Taking a page from John Hall Linen's, many of our downtown shops are spilling outdoors with sales, special finds, and of course, sidewalk chalk. Sidewalk Sundays invite you to wander at your own pace and discover your own favourite moments. No itinerary required.

August will bring us many events and ways to add memories to your Paris story. On August 1, Downtown Paris will come alive for Art Crawl. Artists, makers, and creatives will fill the downtown with inspiration. It’s an opportunity to experience the incredible local talent that makes us proud to call Paris home.

August 8, we’ll celebrate Paris Vintage Fest, a day dedicated to vintage style and the thrill of discovering something with a story to tell. It’s an event that perfectly connects our story of the past with the future of Paris.

August 14 & 15 brings the return of Paris Drinks Fest. A weekend celebrating local craft beverages, food, and a diverse lineup of Canadian music artists. A favourite event for locals to connect and experience one of Southern Ontario's standout summer events.

August 23rd Wincey Mills will host their Endless Summer Market. Local eats, live music, and talented makers will help you fall in love with Paris all over again. Then, on August 28 & 29, we’ll gather again for our Second Annual Block Party. Neighbours, families, visitors, and local businesses will come together for live en-

tertainment and that unmistakable feeling of community, which is what downtown is all about.

These events are more than dates on a calendar. They’re invitations to connect, explore, support local, and create new memories with us.

Meet me in Paris

HISTORIC PARIS PARIS PAST: The 1946 plaque unveiling that commemorates when Paris answered the world's first long-distance phone call

By Chris Whelan

Look closely at the remarkable photograph accompanying today’s column. The date is August 10, 1946, and the heart of downtown Paris has come to a complete standstill. Grand River Street North is absolutely packed with citizens, their summer hats dotting the frame in a sea of anticipation. Standing in front of local commercial staples of the era, the Piccadilly, and Copeland’s Drug Store—the town has clearly paused its usual Saturday routines for something momentous. A temporary stage, draped in Union Jacks and sporting a prominent Telephone Pioneers emblem, holds local dignitaries, guest speakers, and a bustling PA system.

This snapshot in time—originally captured on negative by Kay Marshall and later enlarged by D.A. Smith—immortalizes the 70th anniversary of a moment that forever changed the trajectory of human communication. The crowd in the folding chairs and those spilling out onto the sidewalks had gathered to witness the unveiling of a plaque marking the destination of the world’s very first long-distance telephone call.

The sheer size of the crowd speaks volumes about the pride Paris held, and still holds, for its place in technological history. In 1946, the world was just catching its breath after the end of the Second World War. The telephone had rapidly evolved from a 19th-century scientific curiosity into an indispensable global lifeline. To honour the humble origins of this world-shrinking marvel, the Charles Fleetford Sise Chapter of the Telephone Pioneers of America orchestrated this grand street unveiling. The draped monument visible in the foreground of the photo was about to be revealed, cementing the southeast corner of Grand River and William streets as a historical landmark.

To truly understand the gravity of that 1946 summer afternoon, we must rewind another seven decades to August 10, 1876. Alexander Graham Bell, a young inventor recovering from exhaustion at his family’s home at Tutela Heights near Brantford, was in the midst of refining an invention

that many still considered impossible— or, at best, a fleeting parlor trick. He had already proven that his "telephone" could transmit a voice from one room to another, but the ultimate test remained: could human speech actually travel across miles of wire between two entirely separate municipalities?

Bell decided to use the existing telegraph lines of the Dominion Telegraph Company to bridge the roughly 13-kilometre gap between Brantford and Paris. In Paris, the telegraph office was conveniently situated right inside Robert White’s Shoe Store. To prepare for the experiment, Bell had to ensure the telegraph lines were cleared and that battery power was sufficient to carry the faint electrical signals of a human voice. The setup was crude by today's standards, relying on borrowed infrastructure and makeshift acoustic receivers, but the underlying science was nothing short of revolutionary.

Looking back at the 1946 photograph, the contrast between the two dates is staggering. In 1876, the monumental event was witnessed by a handful of people huddled in a shoe store, straining to hear a faint, crackling voice. By 1946, telecommunications had exploded into an essential industry, and the anniversary brought hundreds of people out into the streets, standing before brick-and-mortar pharmacies, listening to speeches amplified by electric microphones—technology made possible by the very invention being celebrated. The plaque unveiled that day by the Telephone Pioneers still stands as a permanent testament to our local role in the telecom revolution. While Robert White’s Shoe Store and the Dominion Telegraph office are things of the past, the historical marker remains on that very same downtown corner. Today, as we walk down Grand River Street North, scrolling on smartphones that connect us instantly to the other side of the

planet, it’s easy to take for granted that the very first thread of this massive global web was spun right here in our town.

The photograph by Kay Marshall is more than just a piece of local nostalgia; it captures a community recognizing its own extraordinary heritage. The citizens in the photo were witnessing a bridge between a brilliant 19th-century invention and the modern era. So, the next time you find yourself strolling past the corner of Grand River and William, take a moment to look at the plaque. Remember the sheer ambition of 1876, the proud celebration of 1946, and the fact that when the world made its first long-distance call, Paris was the one to answer.

LIVING RETIRED: ‘I

Have Seen The Light!’

By Gary Chalk Non-Pulitzer Prize Winning Columnist

I never, NEVER, NEVER thought the day would come that I would say I enjoy soccer. However, after thirty days of The World Cup I managed to emerge from underneath crumpled Bud Lite empties and crushed Dorito bags and screamed, “GLORY BE TO FIFA!”

Yes FIFA — Fake Injury Football Actors — won me over. So much so that I started playing indoor soccer — in our living room. This is how it went…

First off, to be a soccer player you need to have tattoos all over your body. I went on Amazon and scrolled through pages and pages of temporary tattoos, eventually settling on the Marine Collection that feature glow in the dark, waterproof tattoos of turtles and colourful fish. I pressed COMPLETE ORDER, then went to the front door and picked up my package of temporary tattoos. Just like that I was ready to begin playing soccer.

Day One. The first day was Player Introductions. I put on a pair of easy-stretch waist shorts with suspenders and my Skechers Slip-Ons; it wasn’t pretty. The players walk onto the pitch holding hands with a young child. All I could come up with was Teddy. Jan displays Teddy in our guest bathroom to remind our guests sitting on the toilet of our son Tyler’s furry friend when he was six months old. Teddy

is dressed as a train engineer. With Teddy dangling from my hand, I walked into our living room to a thunderous ovation! The emotion of it all was enough for the day so I tossed Teddy back near his throne in the bathroom.

Day Two. I played Striker/Centre Forward. This is a soccer team’s best scorer so I thought it would be fun. I was surprised how easy it was. I scored five goals on five shots at net before I had a mandatory Hydration Break, so I celebrated with a couple of Bud Lites.

Day Three. Today I thought I would try my hand — oops, my feet — at playing Defence. All that running around the living room yesterday tuckered me out. You know what happened? Even playing Defence, I scored three goals — and I only played five minutes before the game was suspended, Jan wanted to vacuum.

Day Four. Playing soccer is a lot of running at least for guys like me Living Retired so I decided today I would play Goalie. The goal was our living room sofa, so I stood there wearing Jans oversized puffy Betty Crocker oven mitts and scaring the bejeebers out of the opponents by doing jumping jacks. Playing Goalie I still managed to score two goals! Three, if

you count the one on my own net.

Day Five. Today I played Announcer. This was my shortest game because all I did was stand there screaming, “GOOOOOOAAAALLLLLLLL!!!”

This was the one day playing soccer that I didn’t score.

Day Six. This was my most day fun playing soccer. I played Hydration Break. More Bud Lites. Day Seven. This day playing soccer was more fun than I thought because I got to play Fan In The Stands. I got caught up with their antics and got inebriated and tore down the living room drapes! Oh, I managed another goal. Day Eight. I played Referee and Medic. As Referee I wore black shorts and ran around the living room waving Hallmark Greeting Cards in the air. I didn’t last long playing Medic because I don’t like the sight of blood. And Jan said, “Gary if you get blood on the living room carpet the only way you will ever play soccer again is if Trump intervenes with FIFA!”

Living Retired is written weekly by Gary Chalk and published throughout Canada and USA. Gary is a popular keynote speaker at service clubs, corporate events, and retirement parties. Contact Gchalk@ me.com

Exhibit at Mohawk Institute uses quilts to honour Survivors and foster reconciliation

A unique month-long exhibition opening this week at the former Mohawk Institute Residential School invites visitors to reflect on the history of residential schools through the shared language of quilts.

You Are Not Forgotten opens with a free public reception on Thursday, July 23, at the Woodland Cultural Centre and runs through Aug. 14. The exhibition brings together the Grand River Quilt Project and the Six Nations Piecemakers Quilt Club's Quilts for Survivors initiative in a collaboration organizers say is rooted in storytelling, remembrance and reconciliation.

The exhibition is being held in the Mohawk Institute's second-floor gallery. While the gallery will be open only during the opening reception that evening, visitors may tour the Mohawk Institute separately during regular operating hours throughout the exhibition period. Regular admission applies for tours, except during the opening and closing receptions.

The collaboration grew out of a four-year journey that began with the Grand River Quilt Project, a community initiative that brought people living along the Grand River together to share their stories through quilting. As the project evolved, organizers connected with the Six Nations Piecemakers Quilt Club and its Quilts for Survivors initiative, leading to what organizers describe as a natural partnership.

"The collaboration began when the Piecemakers introduced their Quilts for

(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

while creating space for dialogue and understanding.

According to Gashgarian, the exhibit extends well beyond displaying handcrafted quilts.

"The exhibit is about much more than displaying quilts. Each quilt carries stories of memory, resilience, connection, and community," she said. "The Grand River Quilt reflects the many voices and experiences of people connected to the river, while the Survivors Quilts are created as expressions of care, remembrance, and support for residential school Survivors."

She said organizers hope visitors leave with "a deeper understanding of the stories held within these quilts and the people and communities behind them."

"Most importantly, we hope they feel a sense of connection—that they take time to listen, reflect, remember, and recognize that through art and community, we can honour the past while creating space for healing and understanding."

Survivors initiative during a Grand River Quilt Project workshop," said Sharon Gashgarian, one of the exhibition organizers. "This shared commitment to storytelling, remembrance, and connection inspired the two projects to come together in an exhibition at Woodland Cultural Centre - a particularly meaningful setting given its connection to the history of the Mohawk Institute."

Gashgarian said the exhibition was made possible through the support of several community partners. Woodland Cultur-

al Centre donated the gallery space and promotional materials in goodwill, while Grandview Theatre artistic director Peter Muir sponsored the appearance of special guest Vanessa Génier, founder of Quilts for Survivors. Gashgarian also supported the project through funding received from the City of Brantford, in partnership with Laurier Brantford's StartUp program, through its Community Changemakers grant.

The exhibition title, You Are Not Forgotten, reflects its central message of remembering Survivors of residential schools

Holding the exhibition inside the former Mohawk Institute Residential School, one of Canada's oldest and longest-running residential schools, was an intentional decision.

"It was important to hold the exhibit at the former Mohawk Institute Residential School because the setting carries profound historical and emotional significance," Gashgarian said. "The Survivors quilts are about comfort, connection, resilience, and the importance of remembering—and this location provides a meaningful context for

Brimich's new cold storage facility represents more than $100M investment in County of Brant

TURNBULL Managing Editor

A new cold storage and distribution facility under construction on Oak Park Road, just outside of Paris, is expected to bring new jobs, establish a corporate headquarters in the County of Brant and strengthen Southwestern Ontario's food supply chain through an investment expected to exceed $100 million.

Members of County of Brant council and staff toured the Brimich Logistics facility at 635 Oak Park Rd. on July 17, receiving an inside look at the highly automated warehouse that will soon begin operations.

"I've had a lot of people ask about the new building being constructed on Oak Park Road and yesterday members of council and county staff had the opportunity to learn more about this new Brimich cold (frozen) distribution facility," Ward 2 Councillor Steve Howes said following the tour.

Brimich, a family-owned company led by the Fergus family, operates multiple cold storage facilities across Southwestern Ontario and employs more than 600 people. The company specializes in refrigerated and frozen food logistics, serving as a key link between food manufacturers and retailers.

Howes described the new facility as a

the building and its concrete foundation from frost heaving.

The facility will also become Brimich's corporate headquarters, bringing new employment opportunities to the county, including skilled technical and engineering positions.

Ward 1 Councillor Jennifer Kyle said the scale of the operation was particularly striking.

"I left with a much greater appreciation for this often unseen part of our food supply chain," said Kyle who’s spent her career in the agriculture industry. She’s has a hand in operating a farm, visited food processing plants and manufactures. "It's exciting to see a company like Brimich choosing County of Brant for its new headquarters, bringing new jobs to our community while supporting one of our greatest strengths: agriculture and food."

Howes said the project's economic impact extends well beyond the company itself.

"very well planned" operation featuring 35 shipping and receiving doors and space for multiple transport trucks to queue on-site, preventing traffic from backing onto surrounding roads.

Inside, automated storage systems will manage tens of thousands of pallets of frozen food maintained at temperatures of -18 C and -25 C. Heated floors and walls have been incorporated into the design to protect

"By the time they are done, this will end up being a $100 million-plus investment in local employment, creating many new jobs, and will further assist the local economy as other local industries feed into this facility," he said.

He also thanked company president Pat

Afro-CariBrant Festival returns to Paris with expanded two-day celebration

The sights, sounds and flavours of African, Caribbean and Black culture will once again fill Paris Lions Park this Labour Day weekend as the Afro-CariBrant Festival returns for its largest celebration yet.

The free, two-day festival takes place Sept. 5 and 6 under the theme "Heritage in Motion," bringing together live entertainment, cultural experiences, food, art and educational programming for visitors of all ages. Organizers say the event continues to grow as a signature cultural celebration for the County of Brant while fostering community connection and tourism.

Hosted by Darmont GivesBack in partnership with Darmont Events Management, this year's festival builds on the success of its 2025 edition, which attracted 8,479 visitors from across Ontario, other Canadian provinces and abroad.

"Afro-CariBrant Festival is a platform for belonging, cultural pride, and shared community," said Tobi Adedayo, CEO of Darmont GivesBack and organizer of the festival. "Every year, we see people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate, learn, connect, and experience the richness of African, Caribbean, and Black culture. That is the heart of this festival."

The expanded program will include an opening flag parade, live music and cultural dance performances, African and Caribbean cuisine, a Culinary Village, Cultural Marketplace, youth and family activities, educational displays, community booths and a new film series showcasing African, Caribbean and Black stories that helped shape Canada.

One of the festival's featured attractions will be the African Inventors and Icons Exhibition, an interactive travelling exhibit

presented by the Canadian Multicultural Inventors Museum. Housed inside a mobile museum on the festival grounds, the exhibition highlights the achievements and innovations of people of African descent from Canada and around the world.

"'Heritage in Motion' is not only about where we come from, it is about what our communities have built and continue to build," said Essay Folami, program director for Darmont GivesBack and festival organizer. "Bringing a mobile museum like The African Inventors and Icons Exhibition to Paris Lions Park lets families walk through that history together, and lets young people see inventors and icons who look like them. That, to us, is heritage in motion."

Organizers say this year's theme celebrates culture as something that continues to evolve and is passed from one generation to the next through stories, traditions, music, food, art and community experiences. "'Heritage in Motion' speaks to the way our culture continues to move through families, communities, creativity, and everyday life," Adedayo said. "Our heritage is not something that sits still. It moves

through our music, our food, our stories, our businesses, our children, and the communities we build together."

The festival has earned growing recognition, winning the County of Brant's 2025 Good Times in Brant Award and being named a finalist in the Partnership and Collaboration category of the 2025 RTO3 Hamilton, Halton and Brant Tourism Recognition Awards. Organizers estimate last year's event generated more than $432,000 in local spending, benefiting businesses in Brant County, Brantford and neighbouring communities.

"As the festival grows, we are also creating more opportunities for artists, vendors, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and community partners," Folami said. "Afro-CariBrant contributes to culture, tourism, local business, and community connection, and we are proud to bring that energy to Paris and the County of Brant again in 2026."

The 2026 Afro-CariBrant Festival runs Sept. 5 and 6 at Paris Lions Park. Admission is free, and organizers are continuing to welcome applications from vendors, performers, volunteers, sponsors and community partners.

Crosswalk commemorates Royal Canadian Legion's 100 years

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

Fergus, local builder Peter Vicano and their teams for providing council with an educational tour of the facility.

Construction has been progressing since 2025 through multiple building permit phases, including foundations for a marshalling bay, electrical room and office building.

The project remains the subject of a zoning bylaw amendment application that will

The application seeks permission to in-

crease the maximum building height from 18 metres to 46 metre, roughly equivalent to a 12- to 15-storey building, and reduce parking requirements for warehouse uses to reflect the facility's high level of automation and lower employee density.

A public information meeting on the proposal was held June 9, with council receiving the information at that time. A final decision on the zoning amendment is expected later this year.

Brimich Logistics operates five other corporate operations and warehouse facilities in the City of Brantford.

Paris Legion marks 100 years of service with anniversary celebrations, community projects

Brantford-Brant unemployment climbs to 6.4% as more job seekers enter workforce

CASANDRA TURNBULL

Managing Editor

The Royal Canadian Legion officially marked its 100th anniversary on July 17, with local celebrations continuing the following day as members of Branch 29 in Paris gathered with residents for cake and a community barbecue.

The July 18 event coincided with the branch's regular summer weekend barbecue but also served as an opportunity to recognize a century of service, remembrance and advocacy for Canada's Veterans.

While the national organization celebrated its centennial on July 17, the date the Canadian Legion was formally incorporated in 1926, Paris Branch 29 will hold its own major celebration in early October to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the local branch receiving its charter.

The Royal Canadian Legion traces its roots to the aftermath of the First World War, when thousands of wounded and disabled Canadian Veterans returned home to limited government support. Veterans formed numerous organizations to advocate for better care, benefits and recognition, with the Great War Veterans' Association eventually leading efforts to unite those groups into what became The Royal Canadian Legion.

For the past century, the Legion has served as an advocate for Veterans and their families while promoting remembrance and strengthening communities

through volunteerism and local service.

As part of the centennial year, Branch 29 is inviting residents to take part in several community initiatives leading up to its October celebrations.

One project encourages visitors to stop by the branch at 70 William St. to write a personal message of remembrance. Messages collected before July 30 will be sent to Ottawa on July 31 to become part of a national commemorative mural recognizing the Legion's 100th anniversary.

The branch is also continuing its ambitious Poppy Netting project, which has already seen volunteers attach more than 10,000 hand-knit and crocheted poppies to netting. Once completed, the large poppy blankets will be draped over the Paris Cenotaph on Remembrance Day before being displayed at other locations throughout the community as part of the centennial celebrations.

Additional Poppy Netting Bees are scheduled for Wednesday, July 22 and Wednesday, July 29, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Legion branch. Organizers say no experience is necessary, and community members are encouraged to attend, help with the project and support an initiative that will become a lasting tribute during the Legion's milestone year.

Branch 29's formal 100th anniversary celebrations are planned for the first weekend in October, commemorating a century of service to Veterans and the Paris community.

Signs, re-zoning, and the strength of community

STONES Around Town

By Jeff Johnston (a.k.a. Stones)

Signs, signs, everywhere signs. Zones, zones, everywhere re-zones.

Before we get into that, much to my chagrin, I forgot to mention Sara Smith rocking the house at Lions Park on Canada Day. She has an amazing voice and plays fantastic music!

I also want to give a tip of the hat to a group of ladies led by former—and yet lifetime—Paris girl Anita Boos. It was a reunion of sorts, so to all the gals who couldn't

make it this time around, make sure you pencil it in for the next one. Ladies, you all look fabulous!

Thanks to the Big Dig detours and a friendly smile, I ended up giving directions to a lady driving a blue Cadillac. Next thing I knew, I was in the passenger seat with my new friend Doris, since I was heading that way anyhow! As it turns out, Doris and her friend Marilyn meet up right here in Paris a few times a year for lunch, dinner, and shopping. They are lifetime friends.

I’m happy to say Doris made it to the Arlington just as Marilyn was walking up. We all had a quick giggle, and off on my merry way I went.

Continuing on my walk, I went to meet with Leah and Reta—wonderful women, by the way—over at Rieker by LJ Shoes. There has been a bit of a kerfuffle lately about signs on the fence. While chatting with the gals and sharing the story of my journey across

More people entered Brantford-Brant's labour market in June, pushing the region's unemployment rate slightly higher even as employers continued to add jobs in several sectors.

Statistics Canada's latest seasonally adjusted figures show the local unemployment rate increased 0.5 percentage points to 6.4 per cent in June. The increase came as approximately 600 additional people entered the labour force looking for work. Because the unemployment rate measures the share of people actively seeking work who have not yet found a job, the increase reflected a growing labour force rather than widespread job losses.

Employment growth during the month was concentrated in management and manufacturing occupations. Over the past year, the region has also recorded steady employment gains in health care and social assistance, accommodation and food services, and finance, insurance and real estate. Nationally, Canada's unemployment rate edged down 0.1 percentage points to 6.5 per cent in June, while Ontario's rate remained unchanged at 7.0 per cent. Norfolk County's unemployment rate continued its gradual decline to 7.1 per cent, and neighbouring communities including Hamilton, St. Catharines-Niagara and Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge also reported lower unemployment rates. Hiring activity also remained steady across the Grand Erie region.

The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie's Jobs platform recorded 2,200 new job postings in June, a three per cent increase from May. The five most

town, Leah mentioned that Marilyn had actually been in her store earlier that very day. Now, what are the odds of a sign like that? Hearing about the whole fence situation had me shaking my head; it was a completely different kind of "sign" experience.

If you are looking for some excellent songs to tune into and tap your feet away this week, check out Tainted Love by Soft Cell and My Babe by Little Walter. (And remember, the password is "Penguin.")

During my travels, I even ran into Marilyn Brown and got myself a great hug, no less. Looking at the bigger picture of our changing town, there is a lot of talk about re-zoning.

If we build up too high downtown, we risk losing the sunny side of the street, along with the very charm and character that makes Paris so special. Doris, who is from Oakville, mentioned they are having the exact same passionate discussions down there.

in-demand occupations were retail salespersons, school teachers, food support workers, transport truck drivers, and paraprofessionals in legal, social, community and educational services.

The latest labour market figures come as the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie prepares to host its annual Growing Your Workforce Conference on Oct. 28 at Six Nations Polytechnic's Brantford campus.The conference will bring together employers, educators, workforce development professionals, service providers, community leaders, policy-makers, students and job seekers from across Ontario to discuss practical solutions to today's labour market challenges. This year's event will focus on hands-on and experiential learning, including work-integrated learning, mentorship, co-operative education and workplace training, to help employers develop the skilled workforce they need.

"June's labour market numbers remind us that attracting, developing and retaining talent remains a shared responsibility,” said Danette Dalton, executive director of the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie.

“Whether you're an employer looking to build your workforce, an educator preparing students for careers, or someone interested in the future of work, this conference offers valuable insights and opportunities to connect with others working to strengthen our regional economy.”

Tickets for the conference are now on sale. While the event is geared toward employers, educators and workforce development professionals, it is open to anyone interested in workforce development, including students and youth.

With word that the space may shift toward county offices and pickleball courts instead of a pool, it's vital that we keep talking about what we want our community to look like.

Finally, on behalf of the Johnston family, we would like to deeply thank everyone for the empathy, kind words, and immense love extended to us following the loss of our Dad, Gord “Syd” Johnston.

So many people held a special place in his heart, and so many were proud to call him a friend—and really, what more can you ask for in a life well-lived right until the end?

As Dad would always say, misery loves company, so let’s carry on with the beautiful memories we have.

Let's smile, bridge the gaps of friendship, and look out for one another. That is the ultimate sign of the love and deep sense of community we are so lucky to live in. Semper Fi (Fidelis).

All the best, Stones Around Town

Sponsored by Paris Canadian Tire

Brantford Red Sox 11U Select show remarkable growth with semifinal finish in Mississauga

A season that has tested the resilience of the Brantford Red Sox 11U Select team may have reached its turning point this weekend.

After enduring a slow start to the year, with several close league losses and just one tournament victory to their name, the young Red Sox put together their strongest performance of the season at the Ontario Baseball Association 11U Select Tournament in Mississauga, advancing to the semifinals against some tough select competition.

The tournament, held July 17-19, featured 12 teams from across the Greater Toronto Area, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge and Brantford. Brantford finished fourth in round-robin play with a 2-1 record before falling 16-9 to Burlington in a hard-fought semifinal.

For head coach Pierre Saucier, the result was about much more than wins and losses.

"This was the first season with player pitching for most of our team, as they've come up through the younger divisions where pitching machines were still used," said Saucier. "On top of that, the majority of our roster is made up of 10-yearolds playing in an 11U division, so there was a lot to learn. The adjustment to both pitching and hitting against live pitching came with a steep learning curve, but the growth they've shown has been incredible. They've become much more confident on the mound and at the plate, and it's been great to see how much they've developed over the course of the season."

The Red Sox are also a select team, meaning players continue developing their skills through Brantford Minor Baseball's recreational program while competing at the representative level. For many players, this season marks their first exposure to select baseball.

Their improvement has been evident throughout the season. Earlier this year, Brantford suffered a mercy-rule loss to the Cambridge Cubs. This weekend, the Red Sox turned the tables, defeating Cambridge 14-4 by mercy rule to clinch a semifinal berth.

Brantford opened the tournament Friday with an impressive 16-1 victory over the Ajax Spartans. The offence produced 10 hits, led by Elijah Robinson's two-RBI performance, highlighted by a stand-up triple to right field. Robinson, Kennedy Robdrup, Eli Forbes and Jordan Bell each recorded two hits as the Red Sox bats came alive. They also showed patience at the plate and racked up 30 stolen bases, with Ben Turnbull, Aria Steeves, Mavrick Todd, Marty Thomson, and Mathias Santos lead-

ing the team with two free passes each and all of them coming around to score runs on heads up base running. One of the game's top defensive plays came when Forbes delivered a pinpoint throw from behind the plate to Turnbull at third base to erase an Ajax runner attempting to steal, showcasing the Red Sox's sharp defensive play.

Jacob Saucier earned the start on the mound, striking out five over 1 2/3 hitless innings before Bell and Mathias Santos combined to finish the game.

The Red Sox dropped their second game 13-2 to Burlington despite making consistent contact at the plate. Brantford struggled to capitalize on scoring opportunities, while Burlington's offence found gaps in the defence. Heavy rain during the final two innings further hampered any comeback attempt.

Needing a win to reach the playoffs, Brantford delivered one of its best performances of the season, defeating Cambridge 14-4.

Forbes led the offence with a perfect 3-for-3 outing, including a triple, double and single. Bell and Turnbull each drove in two runs with hot hits, while the Red Sox drew 10 walks, stole 26 bases and once again played flawless defence without committing an error. In one inning, Todd

cleanly fielded three back-to-back outs at second base to shut down Cambridge’s offensive attempt. Thomson earned the start on the mound, with Bell providing a scoreless inning in relief.

The semifinal offered another opportunity to measure the team's progress against Burlington, a club that had already defeated Brantford earlier in the tournament and won a tournament championship this season.

This time, the Red Sox refused to back down.

Brantford built an early lead and was tied 9-9 entering the fifth inning after Nick Richardson doubled down the left-field line to even the score. Ben Parker had a nice catch in thee outfield, turning away Burlington’s hot bats. They ultimately pulled away late for the 16-9 victory, but the Red Sox proved they could compete with one of the tournament's strongest teams.

"The biggest difference this weekend was their mindset," said Saucier. "From the very first game, they believed they could win. They played with confidence, stayed focused, and competed hard every inning. They never took their foot off the gas and kept battling right through to the final out on Sunday."

While the tournament ended one game

short of the championship, Saucier believes the weekend reflected how far the players have come since the season began.

"I'm incredibly proud of how much they've grown—not just as baseball players, but as teammates," he said. "On the field, they're making routine plays consistently, communicating well, and playing with confidence. Off the field, they've become a true baseball family. They lift each other up during the tough moments, celebrate every success together, and genuinely enjoy playing for one another. That team-first culture is something every coach hopes to build, and these kids have embraced it this weekend."

The team is coached by Pierre Saucier, Sarah Saucier, Matt Parker and Brad Clahane, whose commitment to developing each player's individual skills has helped guide the young Red Sox through a season defined by steady growth, resilience and confidence.

Their semifinal appearance in Mississauga may not have ended with a championship, but it demonstrated just how far the team has come. They will take that momentum and confidence into their next tournament in Windsor July 31-August 2.

Burford Optimist Club seeks

BURFORD, Ont. — The Burford Optimist Club is asking for the public’s assistance after a food trailer used to raise money for local youth programs was stolen from a storage location in the County of Brant.

The trailer was taken on Sunday, July 5, at approximately 10:05 a.m. from a property near the intersection of Second Concession Road and Middle Townline Road (County Road 25), according to the club.

The trailer contained cooking equipment and other supplies used by the organization to operate food concessions that help fund youth activities and community organizations in Burford.

The club said it is working with the Ontario Provincial Police as the inves-

tigation continues and is appealing to anyone who may have seen the trailer or has information about its whereabouts to come forward.

The stolen trailer bears Ontario licence plate J3972V.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online. Police are also reviewing images of the pickup truck believed to have been involved in towing the trailer away.

The Burford Optimist Club said it appreciates the community’s support and hopes public assistance will help recover the trailer and the equipment needed to continue its fundraising efforts for local youth.

Homes of Heroes seeks community's help to Honour more veterans, expands search

Homes of Heroes is grateful for the support we received last summer and fall. Our original plan was to place a sign in front of every address where a veteran lives now or lived when they served. The signs were placed about three weeks before Remembrance Day and were removed afterwards. We placed about 50 signs last fall, thanks to the homeowners who agreed to participate and thanks to all the people who provided us with information about those veterans. And we could not have done it without all the work that researchers at the Paris Museum had already done and shared with us so generously. We hope to double the number of signs this fall.

Homes of Heroes is not back because we never left. Over the past winter and spring, we have continued to research the stories of Paris veterans. You will be reading about some of those veterans in future issues of The Paris Independent. And we will continue to reach out to the Paris community to help us achieve our goal, especially because we have broadened our original focus.

First, we limited our research last year just to veterans who enlisted in Paris. But that left out many men and women from other communities who served in the military and who came to Paris afterwards and became a part of the fabric of the Paris community. We want to hear about those veterans now.

Next, we have expanded our research to veterans of the First World War. So far, we have written bios of over 140 WW1 veterans from Paris, and we are still looking for more. The challenge, of course, is that the further back we look, the fewer people there are who know those stories. Homes of Heroes wants to recover those stories before they are lost for good.

And finally, we have also expanded our focus not just on the Town of Paris but on the greater Paris community. There are many veterans who lived in South Dumfries Township or Brantford Township, for example, who went to school in Paris, or worked in Paris, or shopped here, or attended church here. We believe that they should also be recognized, and we have already included some of those veterans in our project. But we know there are many more.

This expanded search has made our goal of placing signs much more difficult. It has been very difficult to find addresses for WW1 veterans, for example, because not all houses had numbers, or the numbers have changed, or veterans got their mail from a Post Office Box. So far, we have uncovered 18 addresses of WW1 veterans, which is a good start, and we want to place a sign in front of each of those addresses. But we still want to find more.

Here’s How you Can Help

First, we are reaching out to the people who have that information – who have a photo or a story or a document that shows that that is the house or that is family farm where a veteran lived. We need those living memories before they are lost.

Second, we are a small committee, and we realize that we have created a lot more work for ourselves. In fact, we have taken on more work than we will be able to do alone. We cannot place a sign in front of a home without the current owner’s expressed permission. Last summer, we put requests in more than 50 mailboxes and since we do not know if ownership or interest has changed, we need to receive permission again. And we hope to double the number of signs we place this year, so now there are many new homeowners we need to contact as well. You can help to achieve that goal.

Here is what we need you to do. First,

visit our website, www.homesofheroes.ca, and click on the word Veterans at the top of the home page. You will find a map of the town, and on that map is a maple leaf that identifies every address in Paris we have identified so far where a veteran once lived. Type in the name of your street. (St. for St. Andrew, St. George or St. Patrick) Do you live at an address where a veteran once lived? Email us at info@homesofheroes.ca if you agree to let us place a sign on your property. But also check your neighbours’, your friends’, and your family’s homes. Do they live at one of those addresses? Then let them know and encourage them to give us their permission. We want to fill that map. And we hope to place some signs in front of homes that are beyond the limit of our map, or we will expand the map. Homes of Heroes is a community project, and it will take everyone in the Paris com-

munity to make it as successful as it can be. And while you are on the website, scroll down a little further, where you will still see the names of all the First and Second World War veterans, including those who lost their lives in service of our country, and you can read their stories too by clicking on their names. We know that we will never be able to place a sign for every one of these hundreds of Paris veterans. But their stories need to be told, and they need to be read.

If you can help to add to these stories, or can help us to tell new ones, please contact us at info@homesofheroes.ca. Paris is a home of heroes. Together, let’s tell their stories.

By Jake Grant

Navigating loss: Answers to common grief questions

ASK THE GRIEF COACH

By Tammy Adams

Grief is something everyone experiences at some point in life, yet it can often feel isolating, confusing, and difficult to talk about. In a new monthly column, Ask the Grief Coach, certified grief recovery specialist Tammy Adams will answer readers’ questions about navigating loss, understanding emotions, and finding ways to move forward while honouring the people and experiences we carry with us. Each month, Tammy will respond to questions submitted by members of our community, offering practical insight and compassionate guidance for those who may be struggling with grief of any kind. If you have a question, you would like Tammy to address in a future column, we invite you to submit it to stories@theparisindependent.com.

Questions may be edited for length and clarity, and names can be withheld upon request. By sharing your question, you may help others who are experiencing similar feelings but don’t know where to begin.

1. I lost my spouse more than a year ago, and everyone seems to think I should be "moving on" by now. Is there such a thing as grieving for too long, and how do I know if what I'm feeling is normal?

Grief is deeply personal. No two people experience loss in exactly the same way, and no two journeys through grief will look alike.

Our experience of grief is emotional and is shaped by the unique relationship we had with the person we lost, or by the event itself. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, only our individual path.

For many people, the phrase “moving on” can feel uncomfortable, even painful, because it implies forgetting someone we loved. But what if we shifted our perspective to think of it as “moving forward”. After a sudden or unexpected loss, this subtle shift in language can make all the difference.

I have come to realize that one of the greatest fears in healing is that healing may weakening our connection to the person we have lost.

In reality, the opposite is true.

While the pain may feel like the last link to a loved one, love itself does not disappear. The connection we shared remains part of who we are, and healing can never erase that connection.

It is important to remember that grief is a normal and natural response to loss. Our minds and bodies are designed to process difficult emotions.

The repetitive thoughts that often accompany grief are not a sign that something is wrong; they are often our mind's way of drawing attention to emotions that still need our attention.

Unfortunately, many of us were never taught the skills or given the tools to navigate profound loss. When the strategies we have tried do not seem to help, it is easy to believe that we are somehow failing.

Healing does not follow a schedule, and there is no deadline for grief. Instead of asking, "When will I be over this?" perhaps a more meaningful question is: What if it were possible to remember my loved one without first experiencing overwhelming emotional pain? What if those treasured memories could bring comfort, gratitude, and even peace?

Grief may always be part of our story, but with healing, it does not have to remain the only chapter.

2. I'm going through a divorce after nearly 20 years of marriage. Even though no one has died, the grief feels overwhelming. Is it normal to mourn the end of a relationship the same way you

would the loss of a loved one? How do I move forward?

Yes, it is completely normal to grieve the end of a relationship much the same way you would grieve the death of someone you love. While the circumstances are different, the emotional pain is often just as real.

Grief is not limited to death. It can arise from any significant loss or life change.

Sometimes we grieve what was familiar and comforting. Other times, we grieve what never came to be, the relationship we hoped for, the future we imagined, or the dreams and expectations that will never be realized. We may also carry the weight of conversations left unfinished and words left unsaid.

When these emotions remain unacknowledged, they can keep us feeling stuck, as though we are caught in an endless cycle of sadness, anger, regret, or longing. Healing does not happen by pretending those feelings do not exist. It begins by recognizing them.

If you have tried everything you can think of and still feel overwhelmed by the pain, please do not assume you will always feel this way. Many people have been led to believe they should simply "move on" or "get over it," but grief doesn't work on a timeline. It asks us to process our emotions rather than avoid them.

One of the most important steps toward healing is learning to name what you are feeling. Is it sadness, disappointment, guilt, anger, loneliness, or fear? Giving language to your emotions helps make sense of your experience.

Allow yourself permission to ride the emotional roller coaster instead of judging yourself for being on it.

And when you are ready, consider reaching out to a grief professional who can help guide you through the healing process.

Grief is deeply personal and often more complex than it appears. When you are living the experience, it can be difficult to see the path forward on your own.

Sometimes healing begins with having someone walk beside you as you find your way.

3. My best friend recently lost a child, and I desperately want to support her,

but I'm afraid of saying or doing the wrong thing. What are some meaningful ways to help someone who is grieving without making things harder? I don't feel like I have the right words.

When someone experiences the devastating loss of a child, many of us struggle to find the right words. My advice is to begin with honesty. Simply say, "I want to be here for you, but I'll be honest, I don't know what to say." Those words open the door to real connection.

Too often, our discomfort or uncertainty causes us to pull away. We worry about saying the wrong thing, so we say nothing at all. Unfortunately, that silence can leave grieving parents feeling even more isolated at a time when they need support the most. Honest acknowledgment breaks the ice and creates space for compassionate and presence.

It is also important to remember that many grieving parents cannot easily articulate what they need. Rather than saying, "Let me know if you need anything," offer practical help instead. Pick up groceries, prepare a meal, organize a meal train, drive siblings to and from school or activities, or help with household chores. These everyday acts of kindness can lift an enormous burden.

Above all, what grieving parents want most is to be heard with dignity and respect. The greatest gift you can offer is yourself.

Resist the urge to fix their pain (for you cannot) or attempt to provide explanations as to why this may have happened. Grief is not a problem to be solved but is rather an experience to be witness.

One comment to avoid at all costs is: "You are young and you can have another child." While often intended to comfort, this comment dismisses their profound loss.

No loss is replaceable, especially the loss of a child.

About the Columnist

Tammy Adams is a Certified Coach Practitioner and Grief Recovery Method Specialist, supporting individuals across Canada. To learn more about The Grief Recovery Method, visit tadams.ca or contact Tammy for a free consultation.

those themes."

She said bringing the two quilt projects together at the historic site creates a meaningful dialogue between community stories and the lived experiences of residential school Survivors.

"We hope the setting encourages visitors to slow down, reflect, listen, and consider how art and community can help keep stories alive," she said. "The quilts do not erase the painful history connected to the site, but they bring messages of care, remembrance, connection, and hope into a place where those messages hold deep meaning."

The exhibition also serves as an invitation for the broader community to engage with ongoing truth and reconciliation efforts.

"I would say that this exhibit offers an opportunity to begin learning through listening," Gashgarian said.

"You do not need to know everything about residential schools or Indigenous history before visiting. What matters is coming with an open mind, respect, and a willingness to learn."

She added that while awareness is an important first step, reconciliation requires continued action.

"For the wider community, this exhibit is an invitation to learn more, to listen to Survivors and Indigenous communities, and to consider our

shared responsibilities in the ongoing work of reconciliation. Education and reconciliation begin with awareness, but they continue through listening, understanding, and building respectful relationships." The You Are Not Forgotten exhibition runs from July 23 to Aug. 14 at the Woodland Cultural Centre, 184 Mohawk St., Brantford. A free opening reception will be held Thursday, July 23, with the Mohawk Institute's second-floor gallery open exclusively for the event. Regular admission applies for tours during the exhibition period, except during the opening and closing receptions. Visitors are encouraged to check the Woodland Cultural Centre website or call ahead for current tour hours.

OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: A brilliant destination right next door

By Paul Knowles

There was a talented young violinist busking in front of the Avon Theatre. As I dropped a loonie into her case, I couldn’t help but notice that the coin nestled into a large collection of American bills. And that reminded me of a cliché – one that is none the less true. That is: we almost never visit wonderful destinations that are too close to home. A good number of Niagara Region residents don’t go to see the Falls. Lots of Ottawa folks never visit the National Gallery. Many Winnipeg people have not darkened the door of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

And while Americans and Canadians from farther away pour into Stratford by the score to see some of the best theatre in the world, we locals often give it a miss.

After seeing our first two Stratford productions this season, I have to say we locals are making a big mistake.

I often hear people comment on the cost, sometimes comparing it to other regional theatres. Well, yes, Stratford is more expensive than the others. But frankly, as good as the regional theatres can be, Stratford is consistently several steps higher on the ladder of excellence.

We’ve just seen Guys and Dolls and The Importance of Being Earnest. The acting, singing, dancing, sets… in fact, everything… is simply the best, by far, that you will find anywhere in this area. The productions, I venture to say, are as good as anything theatre-goers will find, anywhere!

And another note about the cost – we locals are often offered bargain basement prices. Last week, I received social media notifications of ticket prices at the Festival, as low as $29, and ranging upward, but never getting near the usual price.

It also occurs to me that, even at full price, tickets to see amazing theatre are still less expensive that good seats at a Blue Jays’ game, and way less than tickets to see the Leafs lose. I say this as a lifelong Leafs fan, by the way.

Enough about economics. Stratford is a destination that locals

are foolish to ignore. Not just the theatre, but also the restaurants, the concerts (often outdoors and free), the shops, and the beautiful parks and gardens.

But most of all, the theatre.

The two plays I’ve seen were both enormous fun. Difference genres, but both full of laughter, extremely talented performances, and very clever sets.

Let’s start with Guys and Dolls. In my mind, the star of the show never appears on stage: she is Donna Feore, a Stratford resident who is a wildly talented choreographer and director. She performed both duties for Guys and Dolls, and that dance sequences are more than worth the price of admission, on their own.

The cast is terrific – Mark Uhre as Nathan Detroit, Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane as Sarah Brown, Jennifer Rider-Shaw as Miss Adelaide. But I admit I am biased –

I have enjoyed the work of Dan Chameroy every time I have seen him on stage, and I did so, again. And the show-stealing song, “Sit Down, You’re Rocking The Boat” is performed magnificently by Steve Ross, as Nicely-Nicely Johnson. Full disclosure – Steve is a much-treasured acquaintance of mine, and to see him nail the performance was a highlight of the afternoon for me.

The entire play is performed with great energy, and yet, minute attention detail. If you like musicals with happy endings, you will love Guys and Dolls. If you don’t like musicals with happy endings… I don’t think I can help you.

If song and dance is the signature of Guys and Dolls, words are the focus of The Importance of Being Earnest. This clever, funny, satirical piece is the work of Oscar Wilde, and it is jam-packed

with his wit. But it’s also silly, in a brilliant way.

Again, the cast was excellent: Carter Gulseth as Algernon Moncrieff, Allison Lynch as Gwendolen Fairfax, Marissa Orjalo as Cecily Cardew, and Joe Perry as John Worthing were in the lead roles, and were terrific. But the play holds a special treat: two giants of Canadian stage and screen were featured in this production: Fiona Reid as the unstoppable Lady Bracknell, and Lucy Peacock as Miss Prism, a prim spinstress with a deeply guarded secret.

A secret which is, of course, revealed, along with many other misunderstandings, misconceptions and downright lies that form the basis for the hilariously unfolding plot.

I am guessing that most of the audience had seen a performance, or the movie, of Earnest prior to taking their seats in the Avon Theatre. Including me. It says everything about the excellence of Stratford theatre that prior knowledge did not detract one bit from the sheer enjoyment of the performance. Even the big reveal by Miss Prism was received with shouts of laughter – not because folks were surprised, but because Lucy Peacock was so good at her job. Stratford: a destination that attracts visitors from all across North American and beyond, and where the doors are wide open to the Festival’s neighbours, all season long. Enjoy!

Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and Past-President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@ golden.net.

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BUSINESS DIREC TORY

WEEKLY

Horoscope

July 22 - July 28 2026

ARIES

Mar 21 - Apr 20

Fresh energy arrives, Aries. A simple decision opens new possibilities and renewed excitement. Stay determined—it encourages confidence and reveals meaningful opportunities ahead.

TAURUS

Apr 21 - May 21

Steady progress continues. A practical choice brings reassurance and lasting confidence. Stay positive—it encourages success and creates pportunities ahead.

GEMINI

May 22 - Jun 21

Communication shines, Gemini. An unexpected idea inspires motivation and creative thinking. Stay curious—it encourages progress and uncovers rewarding possibilities ahead.

CANCER

Jun 22 - Jul 22

Kindness surrounds you, Cancer. A heartfelt gesture strengthens trust and lasting appreciation. Follow your instincts—it encourages harmony and deepens supportive connections ahead.

LEO

Jul 23 - Aug 23

Confidence returns, Leo. A promising opportunity highlights your talents and determination. Stay focused—it attracts recognition and encourages rewarding achievements ahead.

VIRGO

Aug 24 - Sept 22

Organization pays off, Virgo. Thoughtful preparation brings reassurance and steady momentum. Trust your judgment—it encourages success and strengthens important relationships ahead.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 22

Selena Gomez, Pop Singer (34)

JULY 23

Marlon Wayans, Movie Actor (54)

JULY 24

Jennifer Lopez, Pop Singer (57)

JULY 25

Matt LeBlanc, Actor (59)

LIBRA

Sept 23 - Oct 23

Peace returns, Libra. A shared understanding creates balance and renewed confidence. Stay open—it strengthens partnerships and encourages meaningful progress ahead.

SCORPIO

Oct 24 - Nov 22

A worthwhile challenge reveals strength and valuable experience. Trust yourself—it encourages achievement and inspires lasting confidence ahead.

SAGITTARIUS

Nov 23 - Dec 21

Optimism grows, Sagittarius. A fresh perspective inspires motivation and exciting possibilities. Follow your instincts—it encourages adventure and memorable experiences ahead.

CAPRICORN

Dec 22 - Jan 20

Consistent efforts bring rewarding progress and growing confidence. Stay focused—it supports advancement and meaningful accomplishments ahead.

AQUARIUS

Jan 21 - Feb 18

Original ideas flourish, Aquarius. A creative opportunity inspires excitement and fresh direction. Trust yourself—it encourages innovation and lasting success ahead.

PISCES

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Gentle encouragement finds you, Pisces. A welcome surprise renews hope and inspires fresh confidence. Trust your intuition— it encourages meaningful opportunities and strengthens lasting connections ahead.

JULY 26

Mick Jagger, Rock Singer (83)

JULY 27

Triple H, Wrestler (57)

JULY 28

Lori Loughlin, Act (62)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

SATURDAY, JULY 25

Brant Cares Community Connection Day - at Lion’s Park in Paris from 11 am to 4 pm. This free, family-friendly event will feature local community partners and service providers, cultural groups, food trucks, live performances at the Walter Williams Amphitheatre and a FREE public swim at the Paris Community Pool, 12:30-3:30 pm, sponsored by Brant Cares. Whether you're new to the area, looking for local resources, or simply want to spend a fun day with the family, Community Connection Day is a great opportunity to discover what makes the County of Brant a great place to live, work and play.

SUNDAY, JULY 26

Outdoor Gospel Music Content - with Mission Hill. Sunday, July 26th at 7pm. Burtch Baptist Church, 352 Cockshutt Rd. Brantford. Bring a lawn chair. On-site parking, wheel chair accessible, inside if raining, freewill offering. Come and enjoy a beautiful casual evening of inspirational music.

AUGUST 1, 2, 3 & 7,8,9

Sunflower Festival - at Brantwood Farms, 351 German School Road from 10 am to 5 pm. Wagon ride, sunflower trail, photos spots, play patch, farm animals, pick your own sunflowers. More information online at www.brantwoodfarms.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

Brant County Men's Probus Club Meeting - is on Tuesday, August 11th at 10 AM at the Sherwood Restaurant 799 Colborne Street in Brantford. The guest speaker will be Patricia Barlow, the Fitness Lady. New members are always welcome. Come join us for a coffee, fellowship and a presentation.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21

Movies in the Park Series - The County of Brant is hosting its free Movies in the Park series turning local parks into open-air theatres for family-friendly films under the stars. All screenings begin at dusk and are free to attend thanks to sponsorships from Riverside Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. and Grand Bridge Energy. Friday, August 21at King William Park in St. George, featuring the movie Bad Guys 2.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25

Knights of Columbus Monthly Meeting - on Tuesday, August 25th at 7:30 PM in the Sacred Heart Parish hall at 17 Washington Street, Paris.

MONDAY, AUGUST 31

Brant County Singers Hosting a Choral-oke - Monday, August 31st at 7:00 pm at the Sydenham-Heritage United Church, 120 Sydenham Street, Brantford. The event is open to all potential singers as both the women's and men's choruses will be present to learn several songs. Join us for two hours of song and see if you enjoy the sounds with other singers.