TURNBULL PHOTO)
As part of the Paris Lions Club's Canada Day celebration on July 1, which also marked the club's 95th anniversary, Dave Boyd, Lorne Reid, Rod Laframboise and Lion Chief David Arsenault received 95th anniversary recognition awards from District Governor Linda Vinette. Despite the sweltering heat, hundreds of residents attended the festivities at Lions Park throughout the day. See more photos on page 11.
CASANDRA TURNBULL Managing Editor
Public consultation on the proposed transfer of more than 1,300 acres of airport lands from the County of Brant to the City of Brantford has been pushed back until the end of July as both municipalities review the proposal in response to significant public feedback.
In a joint statement released June 30, the City of Brantford and County of Brant said extensive feedback received during June's public engagement campaign has prompted officials to carefully review the proposal and "seriously consider" changes that directly address residents' concerns.
For the first time in decades, residents didn't have to leave town to enjoy a Canada Day celebration.
Instead of travelling to larger centres, waiting in long lines or searching for family activities
elsewhere, hundreds of people gathered at Lions Park on July 1 as the Lions Club of Paris celebrated both Canada's birthday and the club's 95th anniversary with a free community festival.
Despite soaring temperatures, the day drew strong crowds from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with families taking part in entertainment, children's
Rather than proceeding immediately with statutory public meetings, both councils will spend the coming weeks considering potential revisions before likely holding public meetings toward the end of July. Any proposed changes will be released publicly in advance to allow residents time to review the updated proposal before providing further input.
The announcement marks the first indication that changes to the original proposal are being contemplated following widespread public concern over the proposed municipal boundary adjustment, which would transfer approx-
activities and complimentary food.
"Despite the extreme heat there was a great turnout," said Paris Lion Rod Laframboise following the event. "We served more than 900 hotdogs and even more ice cream bars. Many attendees commented on how it was nice to have a local Canada Day celebration that was affordable and family-friendly. From a Lions perspective, it was a wonderful way to say thank you to the community as we celebrate our 95th anniversary."
The celebration also included a special presentation recognizing the club's long history of community service. Early in the day, District Governor Linda Vinette surprised members by presenting the Lions Club of Paris with a framed 95th anniversary recognition award.
The event reflected the volunteer spirit the organization has demonstrated since its founding in 1930. Throughout the day, Lions members served complimentary hot dogs, beverages and ice cream bars while welcoming visitors to Lions Park, a park the club helped build and one of its many lasting contributions to the community.
Entertainment kept visitors busy throughout the day. The Glass Slipper Company brought volunteers offering free face painting, and Disney characters for children. Balloon Twisters dazzled youth with their creations. Doug the Great entertained crowds on stilts, while Tim McDougald, Sarah Smith and Frisky Business performed from the park's amphitheatre.
Bruce Outridge Productions also created complimentary caricature drawings for guests seeking a keepsake from the celebration.
Families arrived dressed in red and white, many sporting Canadian flags, face paint and patriotic accessories as they celebrated Canada's birthday close to home.
The festivities extended beyond Lions Park and into downtown Paris, where residents were also able to experience the newly opened Grand River Street North promenade.
The pedestrian-friendly promenade marked the first opportunity for residents to stroll much of the reconstructed downtown street as the long-running infrastructure project nears completion. While the section from Lisa's Way to just beyond the Grand River Street North and William Street intersection remains closed for ongoing work, much of the downtown core was open to pedestrians.
The promenade featured music throughout the street, a giant inflatable bouncy castle for children and local business owners welcoming visitors into their shops. The County of Brant has indicated the promenade will remain in place throughout the summer, with additional activities and special events planned in the coming weeks.
In other Lions Club news, the Lions Club of St. George once again partnered with firefighters from Station 7 to host its annual Canada Day pancake breakfast at the St. George Fire Hall. The long-running tradition drew another capacity crowd as residents gathered to enjoy breakfast before a
full day of festivities.
The day concluded with a bittersweet finale as St. George firefighters presented the community's final Canada Day fireworks display, bringing to a close a 33-year tradition. Mother Nature, with its surprise outburst around suppertime, did not detour the show.
Thousands gathered to watch the fireworks, with firefighters ensuring the beloved celebration ended on a high note as they truly "went out with a bang."
imately 1,317 acres, including the Brantford Municipal Airport and surrounding lands, from the County of Brant to the City of Brantford.
Despite repeated questions from The Paris Independent, specific details about what changes are under consideration, were not released.
"We are unable to provide additional information at this time," County of Brant Director of Communications Suzie Keczan said when asked what aspects of the proposal may be revised.
The municipalities confirmed only that revised information will be made public before the statutory meetings expected later this month.
The proposed boundary adjustment has generated significant debate since it was announced earlier this spring. While the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by both municipalities is not legally binding, it establishes a framework for negotiating a future restructuring agreement
that would see the airport lands transferred to the City while providing more than $9.6 million in compensation to the County and tax protections for affected property owners.
Public concern has focused on several issues, including the loss of agricultural lands, future development potential, transparency surrounding the negotiations and whether a decision of this magnitude should be made before October's municipal election.
One recurring concern raised through the City's Let's Talk Brantford engagement platform centred on protecting farmland and preserving agricultural production. In its response, the City emphasized that the proposed boundary adjustment would not remove farmland from production or approve development. It said existing agricultural and natural heritage protections would remain in place and any future proposal to redesignate the lands would require a separate planning process under provincial legislation. The City also noted that concerns raised through the consul-
tation process, including those related to farmland and the environment, are among the issues currently being reviewed.
The City also sought to address questions about whether the negotiations are intended to advance future airport expansion or the proposed West Brant Access Route, stating that neither project forms part of the current boundary adjustment proposal and that any future infrastructure projects would require their own planning, financial analysis and council approvals.
Another issue raised repeatedly by residents has been the timing of the negotiations. Many have argued that an agreement with long-term implications for municipal boundaries, taxation, infrastructure and land-use planning should be left to councils elected this October rather than finalized during the final months of the current term.
Asked whether the municipalities still intend to complete the MOU before the election, Keczan acknowledged the County's concerns with the process.
"As we have previously shared, the County of Brant did not initiate these dis-
cussions and while we are disappointed by the manner in which this process was initiated and by the timelines, Council and staff have remain committed to achieving the best possible outcome for County residents, City residents, the Province and First Nations," she said.
The City, meanwhile, maintains that boundary adjustment discussions have been underway for approximately six years and that both current councils remain fully authorized to make decisions throughout their elected terms. It also states that the MOU reflects years of negotiations between two municipalities and that municipal governance continues until new councils are sworn in following the election.
A large crowd attended the June 11 public open house, where residents voiced concerns and asked questions about the proposal. Municipal officials have indicated that feedback collected during those sessions and through the online engagement process is now informing potential revisions to the proposal before it returns to council later this month.
Managing Editor
For most children, an unexpected power outage or natural disaster would be enough reason to skip class. Not for nine-year-old Sofia.
Just hours after a powerful earthquake shook parts of Venezuela, the young student logged onto WhatsApp from her darkened home, wrapped in a blanket and using only a flashlight so she could continue her weekly English lesson with her teacher in Canada.
For Brantford resident Carol Manikus, it was a moment she will never forget.
"I asked if she wanted to cancel our lesson. Without hesitation she answered, 'No, Teacher. Please continue,'" Manikus recalled. "As our lesson began, my heart broke. There she sat on the floor of her home in complete darkness, wrapped in a blanket, using only a flashlight so she could continue learning English."
The experience has become a powerful reminder of just how much education means to children growing up in one of the world's most unstable countries.
About 18 months ago, Manikus travelled to Venezuela to help launch a private school founded by her sister-in-law, who had dreamed since childhood of providing educational opportunities for children living in poverty. That dream eventually became reality when her sister-in-law transformed her home into a school with the help of volunteers, family and community supporters.
The school, Unidad Educativa Colegio Privado María Sixta, officially opened in October 2024 and now serves more than 130 students from kindergarten to Grade 6. Every student receives daily English and computer instruction, along with transportation to and from school, opportunities that are uncommon for many children in Venezuela.
Many public schools in the country operate only a few days each week, and some children receive little or no formal education at all. As a result, families place tremendous value on any opportunity for consistent learning.
"The children there are hungry for education," Manikus told the Paris Independent. "Many Venezuelan children do not have access to regular schooling, and education is something they deeply value."
Manikus' own journey to the school was anything but ordinary.
Because of political instability in Venezuela at the time, she, her brother-in-law and nephew encountered significant challenges crossing the border after discovering they did not have the required visas. After being detained, fingerprinted and questioned by border officials, they later crossed through another border route and eventually reached the school safely. Once there, Manikus spent time teaching English before returning home to Canada. Today, she continues teaching three students every week through WhatsApp.
Her students include Sofia, 9, Juan, 11, and Miguel, 10.
Despite living in poverty, she said they approach every lesson with enthusiasm.
"They are joyful, respectful, and eager to learn," Manikus wrote. "These children understand something many adults take for granted. They know that learning English opens doors. They believe education can change their future."
Her connection with the students extends well beyond language lessons.
She recently mailed birthday gifts to each of them and said watching their reactions was one of the highlights of her teaching experience.
"Their excitement, gratitude, and joy were overwhelming," she said. "During our next class they proudly showed me everything they had made and thanked me over and over again."
That bond made the recent earthquake especially concerning.
When Manikus was unable to reach Sofia for their scheduled lesson, she assumed another routine power outage had interrupted internet service. It was only after they connected that she learned a major earthquake had struck the region less than an hour earlier.
Thankfully, Sofia and her family were safe, although they experienced aftershocks.
During the lesson, another tremor shook the area.
"Using a translator, I tried to comfort her and asked once more if she wanted to stop," Manikus said. "Again she answered, 'No, Teacher. Please continue.'"
The experience, she said, reinforced the resilience she has witnessed in Venezuelan children since first meeting them.
Many of the students attending the school are being raised by grandparents or extended family members after their parents left the country in search of work. Even so, Manikus said they remain grateful for every opportunity they receive and never take
education for granted.
For Manikus, continuing to teach the children each week is about more than learning vocabulary or grammar.
She hopes every lesson helps provide encouragement and opens doors to future opportunities.
"What touched me most was seeing that even after such a frightening experience, Sofia still wanted to learn," she said. "As teachers, we hope to inspire our students, but sometimes our students inspire us."
Anyone interested in helping provide educational opportunities for a child in Venezuela can sponsor a student for $40 per month.
The sponsorship helps cov-
By Jake Grant
1. What is the birthstone of July?
2. What is the fictional island in Mamma Mia called?
3. What is the capital city of Australia?
4. What do you call a beginner surfer?
5. What is the Italian name for ice cream?
6. What 80s girl band sang “Cruel Summer”?
7. What summer seafood is now a delicacy but was once considered “poor man’s protein”?
8. Which Harry Potter character died on the beach?
9. The person in charge of officiating a baseball game is called what? 10. What is the standard distance for Olympic target archery?
er an outstanding education, daily English and computer classes, transportation to and from school, and, most importantly, hope for a brighter future. Those interested in learning more or becoming a sponsor are encouraged to contact Carol Manikus at Carolinasnow24@hotmail.com for information on how they can make a difference.
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
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
Lansdowne Children’s Centre’s annual general meeting on June 15 was a celebration of the year behind, and an eager glimpse at the road ahead.
Lansdowne is a highly accredited children's treatment centre (CTC) and SmartStart Hub, connecting caregivers with resources, services and support for infants, children, and youth with physical, communication, and/or developmental additional/ special needs across Grand Erie.
During the event, several awards were presented to mark the previous year’s accomplishments.
The Bob Caissie Community Care Award was presented to Julie Neal, mom to Lansdowne client Tenley, and the driver of the Magic of Giving Holiday Market fundraiser for Lansdowne.
Neal said, “To be recognized by an organization that does such meaningful and life changing work for local infants, children, youth, and families is something I never take for granted. Lansdowne Children's Centre makes an incredible difference in our community every day, and I am grateful to play even a small role in supporting their mission.”
She added that she appreciated being able to see Caissie again at the event, and to have the opportunity to meet his family.
“Hearing more about his legacy and the passion he has made this recognition even more meaningful,” she said.
Caissie is a local business owner and a member of the Rotary Club of Brantford. In 2001, he started the Great Northern Ride, a fundraiser for Lansdowne’s recreational programming. In 2004, he had the idea for another major fundraising event, the annual Charity Motorcycle Ride for Lansdowne Kids. These and other events are responsible for funding the Every Kid Counts program, which was founded in 2001, and allows children and youth to participate in mainstream recreation activities with the assistance of a Lansdowne Support Worker.
The Terry Fisher Memorial Award, for art student of the year, was presented to Billie MacDonald-Moore. Her signature piece from the past year was a map of Canada that she created using repurposed medical supply items, including IV caps, an insulin pen and a COVID-19 test.
When speaking about the piece, Tiffany Morgan, SmartStart Hub and Quality Assurance Supervisor, noted, “What makes it so powerful is the intention behind every detail. Each item was chosen with care, some to represent the province they’re placed in, others for the purpose those materials have served. It’s a piece that blends creativity, symbolism, and advocacy in a way that only Billie can.”
MacDonald-Moore said, “Lansdowne has always been a place where I can be me. A place that I will miss when I go to school, a place that became my second home. I appreciate Tiffany and the team for recognizing my work and letting me leave my mark on Lansdowne.”
This fall, she will be studying Environmental Sustainability and Resource Management.
A number of Lansdowne’s staff were honoured, celebrating service milestones for 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service. There was also a special recognition of Lorraine DeJong, social worker, who was retiring after 38 years with Lansdowne.
Speaking to the impact Lansdowne has had over the past year, Board Chair Ashley Veldkamp noted that the organization had supported 10 per cent more infants, children and youth than the year previous, as well as expanding its tiered model of service to every publicly funded school across its 4,000-square-kilometre catchment area.
“This means more children are receiving support earlier, helping them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed at home, at school, and in their communities,” she said. She noted that progress had been made on Lansdowne’s new site in Brantford, including the announcement of the location of the new building, and fund
ing commitments from municipal leaders.
The meeting included a presentation by guest speaker Tom McHugh, CEO of Grandview Kids, who spoke about his
agency’s journey from a grassroots movement by client families calling for a new facility for the agency to the ribbon cutting on a new building several years later.
CASANDRA TURNBULL Managing Editor
Municipal election campaigns have a way of bringing out both the best and the worst in our communities. Unfortunately, it often doesn't take long for the worst to surface.
As I sat down to write this editorial, I couldn't help but think back to one I wrote more than 20 years ago at the Paris Star. Different election. Different candidates. Same disappointing behaviour. It seems some things never change.
Every election season begins with optimism. Candidates step forward, residents become engaged and important conversations begin about the future of our communities. Before long, however, the conversation too often shifts from policies and ideas to personal attacks, rumours, online insults and attempts to tear others down. It doesn't have to be that way. If you support a candidate, tell us why.
Explain what qualities make them a good fit for council or mayor. Share examples of their leadership, their community involvement or their vision for the future. Give readers a reason to support them.
What you don't need to do is attack someone else. Building one candidate up should never require tearing another candidate down.
We've all seen political advertising that spends more time criticizing the opponent than explaining why someone deserves your vote. Those ads rarely persuade anyone. More often, they leave people shaking their heads at the negativity.
The same principle applies here.
As your community newspaper, we welcome letters endorsing candidates. We believe readers benefit from hearing why residents believe someone is qualified to serve. Healthy debate is part of democracy. What we will not publish are letters that exist primarily to insult, shame or slander another candidate. Disagreement is inevitable. Hate is not.
Criticism of policies, voting records or public decisions is fair game when it is factual and respectful. Personal attacks, unfounded allegations, character assassination and hateful rhetoric have no place in these pages. That is not censorship. It is editorial responsibility.
The Paris Independent has always believed our role is to encourage informed discussion, not amplify division. There is already more than enough anger circulating on social media. Our newspaper will not become another platform for it.
The same goes beyond letters to the editor. Let's put an end to vandalizing campaign signs. Let's stop hiding behind keyboards to spread rumours or attack neighbours because they support a different candidate. Let's resist the temptation to stir up outrage simply because it generates attention.
It is tacky. It is unnecessary. And quite frankly, our communities deserve better. Whether you agree with them or not, every person who puts their name on a bal-
lot is making a significant personal commitment. They are volunteering countless hours, opening themselves and their families to public scrutiny, and stepping into one of the most challenging and often thankless roles in local government.
That alone deserves a basic level of respect. Over the next three months, voters will have important decisions to make. Those decisions should be based on ideas, qualifications, experience and vision, not who can deliver the sharpest insult or the loudest accusation.
So here are our ground rules.
If you want to endorse a candidate, we'll gladly publish your letter, provided it meets our usual standards. Tell readers why that person has earned your support. Let their strengths speak for themselves.
But if your goal is to spread hate, launch personal attacks or use our pages to settle political scores, your letter won't appear in this newspaper. The campaign trail doesn't have to become a mud pit. Let's prove that respectful debate is still possible.
Dear Editor:
I am writing as a concerned resident of Paris who cares deeply about the future of our downtown and about ensuring our local government operates with transparency and accountability.
Like many residents, I appreciate opportunities for public consultation. However, I have begun to question whether these consultations are truly intended to gather public input or whether they are simply presented as procedural after key decisions have already been made.
The County of Brant has advertised a public meeting on July 7 regarding proposed zoning changes in downtown Paris for what it describes as “select municipally owned parking lots and nearby lands”, identified as Area A and Area B. At first glance, this sounds straightforward. However, upon reviewing publicly available information, it appears that not all of the lands within Area B are municipally owned.
Many residents have also heard speculation that Area A, which appears to have greater development potential, could somehow become linked to the privately
owned Area B as part of a broader redevelopment strategy. If that is not the case, Council should clearly explain why. If it is being considered, residents deserve to know before zoning decisions move forward.
At the May 2026 Council meeting, County staff stated, “There is a relationship between the two, as we’re working towards a partnership between the owner of the properties and the County.”
This statement raises important questions that residents deserve answers to.
What is the nature of this proposed partnership? When did discussions begin? What commitments, if any, have already been made? If negotiations involving privately owned land are underway, how does that influence the zoning changes now being presented to the public? Most importantly, are residents being consulted before decisions are made, or simply being informed after a preferred outcome has already been established?
There are also practical questions about parking that have not been adequately addressed. How many existing parking spaces are currently located within Area A? If the County’s own Downtown Park-
ing Needs Assessment concludes that additional parking capacity is required, why is the proposal contemplating the removal of existing downtown parking spaces before a replacement solution has been fully evaluated? These parking spaces are among the closest to the downtown core and are important for seniors, people with disabilities, families with young children, and anyone who relies on convenient access to local businesses and services.
Council has also stated that the cost of a parking structure has not yet been determined. If that is the case, why is Council being asked to consider rezoning these lands before the community and elected officials have a complete understanding of the financial implications? Shouldn’t the estimated capital cost, long-term maintenance costs, operating expenses, accessibility considerations, construction impacts, and overall feasibility of a four-storey parking structure be known before decisions are made that could fundamentally change the use of these lands?
These are reasonable questions, not accusations. Transparency is fundamental to public trust. While I understand
that certain aspects of land negotiations may legally occur in closed session, the public deserves confidence that major planning decisions affecting the future of our downtown are not effectively predetermined before consultation takes place. The issue extends beyond a parking structure or a zoning amendment. It is about ensuring that public consultation is meaningful rather than procedural. Consultation should shape decisions—not simply validate decisions that have already been made.
As someone who has lived in Paris and wants to see our community thrive, I am asking Council to be transparent about its intentions, clearly explain the relationship between Areas A and B, answer these outstanding questions, and provide residents with the information they need to participate meaningfully in decisions that will shape our downtown for generations to come.
An informed public is not an obstacle to good government—it is the foundation of it.
Concerned (and confused) citizen, Laura Ferren / Paris
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
DRUMBO: THURSDAY, JULY 9 FROM 11:30AM - 2:00PM
ST. GEORGE: TUESDAY, JULY 14 FROM 11:30AM - 2:00PM
INNERKIP: FRIDAY, JULY 17 FROM 3:30PM - 6:00PM
AYR: SUNDAY, JULY 19 FROM 11:30AM - 2:00PM
Dear Editor:
Last week’s Independent reported on 2 interconnected issues discussed at the Council Meeting of June 23 - Development Charges (DCs) collected and the brant Sports Complex (BSC) Expansion. I would like to offer some further insights and hopefully quell concerns/issues raised elsewhere.
DCs are generally collected from builders/developers when first building permits are issued - the pace of issue of building permits fluctuates. Whilst we “only” collected $14.6 million in DCs in 2025 this figure exceeds the average of the previous 5 years. The DCs collected end year balance was $ 17.7 million - again this number varies year on year as collected DCs are drawn down to support projects or topped up if there is an annual surplus. Likewise the DC Funding committed to Approved Capital Projects fluctuates - at end 2025 it was $41.69 million - the year before it was $43.1 million and the average over the previous 5 years was just over $30 million.
That the end year balance of DCs collected does not cover the DCs committed over time is not unusual and not a cause for concern. DCs will continue to be collected as the County further develops and those yet-to-be-collected DCs will pay off the balance of the $41.69 million and future calls. We have a further 5500 new residential homes (ca. 50% increase over current numbers) and 7 million sq ft of industrial development (ca. 100% increase) planned across the County by 2051 - lots of DCs. DCs pay in large part for infrastructure and facilities required by a growing community and it is entirely fair that future residents/businesses pay through DCs for facilities that are built to
meet the needs of that growing community rather than existing taxpayers. The DCs collected in any given year and end year balances will continue to fluctuate. Which brings me to the BSC Expansion - a development welcomed by many in the community. Much of the funding will come from DCs or through debt to be repaid by DCs (collected in the future). This funding model reflects good and common financial planning. The approval given by Council on the BSC Expansion is conditional on the securing of Federal and Provincial Grants (a large part of the balance of funding) - if they are not secured then the approval will be reconsidered by Council.
The previous cost estimate for the BSC Expansion, as of May 2025 and reported to Council, was $ 28.3 million based on a conceptual design (Class D estimate) and not $22.1 million as has been reported elsewhere. The current estimate is $ 30.9 million based a completed detailed design and material take off (a more accurate Class A estimate). And it should be noted that the May 2025 conceptual design building was 38000 sq ft whereas the final design is 41000 sq ft - the increase is attributable to a number of factors and explains some of the cost increase. Final note - the Provincial Government would appear to like to see DCs removed altogether but practically they can’t on the one hand demand municipalities grow and then on the other deny use of the mechanism municipalities across the province use to fund the necessary infrastructure to support that growth without a comparable alternative. This is a space to be watched!”
John Bell | Paris, Ont
By Chris Whelan
Imagine the relentless hum of knitting machines suddenly grinding to a halt. Imagine the work whistles over the Grand and Nith rivers going completely silent, replaced instead by the Penman’s Employees’ Brass Band and the excited chatter of thousands of voices heading toward the railway station. For generations of local families, the arrival of the summer months meant one thing: the grand Penman’s Summer Excursion. Whether it fell in late June, July, or mid-August, it was the one day of the year when Paris hit pause, packed its picnic baskets, and headed for the waters of Port Dalhousie.
On the morning of the excursion, Paris was treated to a spectacular sight. Having lined up days in advance to secure their tickets downtown at Russell Sandercock’s drugstore on Grand River Street. Families arrived at the station to catch a special Canadian National Railway (CNR) train that pulled out at a bright and early 7:00 a.m., rain or shine. Despite the sweltering heat, men proudly wore heavy trousers and flat caps, while women donned elegant summer dresses. In the late 1920s, a round-trip ticket to paradise cost a hard-earned $2.05 for adults and $1.05 for children—a small price to pay for memories that would last a lifetime.
When that morning train whistled its
way out of the station, it took the very lifeblood of the community with it. Paris was an industrial town where family ties crossed factory lines; a husband might pull shifts at Penman’s while his wife or children worked the looms at the Paris Wincey Mills. Because of this, running the rest of the town’s industry on excursion day was logistically impossible. Other major plants like the Wincey Mills—which hosted their own celebrated picnics later in the season—would fall silent alongside Penman's. Main Street shops locked their doors, service slowed to a crawl, and the entire town took a collective, quiet breather. For one day, Paris was a ghost town, its working-class heart entirely elsewhere.
When the trains finally pulled into the coast of Lake Ontario, a sea of humanity would spill out into Port Dalhousie's legendary Lakeside Park. Originally de-
veloped in 1902, the bustling amusement grounds were a mid-century paradise. As seen in archival images, the park boasted an electric atmosphere filled with spinning midway rides, a grand dance pavilion, a bandstand, and prominent attractions like the towering mechanical swing ride and the historic carousel. Families brought basket lunches for the noon and evening meals, while free tea, milk, and ice cream were supplied on-site. Leading the charge was the celebrated Penman’s Employees’ Brass Band, providing a booming soundtrack that echoed across the grounds as families carried their massive wicker baskets down to the sand, eager for a dip in Lake Ontario or a ride on the famous carousel.
These excursions were far from lazy afternoons by the water; they were highly organized, fiercely competitive community events. Once the picnic blankets were spread, the afternoon athletic schedule commenced. The Paris Star meticulously recorded the winners of the three-legged races, the single women's footraces, the boys' potato races, and even crowd-pleasing tobacco-pipe smoking contests.
The undisputed main event of the day, however, was the legendary inter-mill tugof-war. The friendly but fierce rivalries cultivated on the factory floors all year long spilled out onto the grass. The brawny workers from the sprawling No. 1 Mill on West River Street would square off against the teams from Mill No. 3 or the spinning departments. Hundreds of spectators would line up, screaming themselves hoarse, as the heavy rope strained under the collective muscle of Paris’s finest industrial workers. By the time the evening sun began to dip below the horizon, The journey home was
even more spectacular: the exhausted picnickers traveled across the lake to Hamilton aboard the grand steamer Dalhousie City before catching a final train back to Paris, rolling into the station at 10:40 p.m. Exhausted children slept with their heads in their parents' laps, their faces sunburned and sticky from midway candy. The heavy suits were slightly rumpled, the widebrimmed hats sat askew, and the fierce rivalries of the afternoon dissolved into the shared, quiet contentment of a community uniquely bound together.
Today, the era of the mass industrial factory picnic has slipped into history. The great Penman’s empire eventually closed its doors, leaving behind the beautifully restored brick architecture that still defines our downtown landscape. But the spirit of those summer excursions is closer than you think. The next time you enjoy a warm summer evening walking near the old rail trails or look out across the waters from the perch of the Penman's Dam, take a moment to listen closely. Beneath the modern sounds of our vibrant town, you can almost hear the faint, echoing whistle of the 7:00 a.m. train, the distant brassy swell of a march, and the laughter of thousands of hardworking Parisians heading off to catch the morning sun at Lakeside Park.
By Gary Chalk Non-Pulitzer Prize Winning Columnist
There is no escaping it. FIFA — Fake Injury Football Actors — has the world in its grip. And the tighter the grip, the more we gripe.
We have finally passed the halfway mark of the tournament. As a Living Retired soccer newbie, from where I sit — buried in my Lazy-Boy recliner by empty Doritos bags and crushed Bud Lite cans — I would like to offer my gripes.
Much of my griping is all the fake injuries, which based on my projections,
should by the end of the tournament, come in at about 15,374 — plus, but not minus. I am gobsmacked with what I see happening…
Watching the Canada Switzerland match a player (as you will read it must have been a Canadian) suddenly toppled head over heels! That was just the start. Before smashing to the ground he completed a triple axle, followed by a salchow — and if that wasn’t enough! — he grabbed his right foot and stretched it all the way up to behind his head AND MAINTAINED THIS POSE UNTIL HE FELL TO THE TURF! Fortunately, there were no French figure skating judges who would have deducted marks because of his inappropriate use of facial Mascara. What was that all about…
Canadian part-time soccer fans like me are not accustomed to this type of athleticism. We watch hockey where when the puck drops the players start beating the
crap out of each other, basketball where the players wait for the last minute and stretch it into an hour to finish the game, and baseball where the players stand around scratching and spitting waiting for something to happen.
Like many fans I am also griping about the hydration breaks. This is what I mean…
Once each half, the Referee calls for a hydration break. With that, water bottles are rushed onto the field for the players. For three long minutes the players stand around hydrating themselves. The referee? He uses the time to rearrange his collection of Hallmark Greeting cards that he waves in the face of delinquent players when they commit penalties. But it doesn’t stop there…
Up in the stands, tens of thousands of fans who have been drinking since they arrived from Europe, some on The Mayflower, use the opportunity to — you guessed it — hydrate themselves more. Just what they need! In the game between Norway and Senegal the poor Norwegian fans had their work cut out for them during the hydration breaks. One of the Norwegian supporters began banging away on a drum which was the signal for the compliant, already well-hydrated
Norwegian fans to en masse pretend they were rowing a Norwegian Viking ship. This went on for three friggin minutes, so long that by the end of it these well-lubricated Norwegian supporters needed, well, a HYDRATION BREAK!
What else do we gripe about? The tattooed man bun players. At this level the players are elite, and stylish. Sure, they sweat like the rest of us, but we mostly don’t have man buns. And if we Living Retired soccer newbies fell down onto the pitch, we would need help getting up!
During one of the hydration breaks I opened AI to see if it could produce a picture of me playing soccer. It took maybe thirty seconds and the image appeared: me with a man bun, wearing soccer shorts held up by suspenders; instead of soccer cleats I was wearing Sketchers Slip-Ins, drinking beer, and Doritos cheese smeared on my face. Jan screamed. “Gary quick grab a screen shot!”
Too late Jan. I hit Delete.
Living Retired by Gary Chalk is published weekly throughout Canada and USA. Living Retired On The Radio I heard Thursday mornings. To inquire about keynote presentations, contact Gchalk@ me.com.
Explore a network of local health services, expert care, and wellness solutions designed with you in mind.
must meet their needs, too.
The dancers of the Lisa Naves Dance Company (LNDC) in Brantford can make anything look easy –from death-defying acrobatics to top-notch, technical tap dancing. But for owner Lisa Naves-Abonyi and artistic director Vicki Fletcher, the journey here – like any production – was a touch unpredictable behind the scenes.
You’d never know it from its sprawling, sunny, 5,300-square foot studio, but LNDC Brantford spent much of its first year without full access to the Papple Rd. facility due to permitting issues. But that didn’t stop Abonyi and Fletcher from offering the best of the best in dance education. That year, the studio held classes out of any location it could – from Abonyi’s original namesake studio in Simcoe to various Brantford community centres and even a golf course clubhouse.
The students and families embraced the chaos, placing their faith in Abonyi and Fletcher’s combined 60 years’ teaching experience.
This past June, LNDC Brantford marked the triumphant completion of its second season – and its first with a permanent, stable home – with its annual Spring recital.
“We have one of the best productions in Southern Ontario,” says Abonyi, who prides herself in the quality of her recitals. It’s a culmination of a year’s worth of education and achievements from its young dancers –and also a showcase of dance community. Every year, it features the infamous “Dance Dads,” who perform a meticulously choreographed and costumed routine, much to the delight – or sometimes embarrassment –of their children. It also includes an extended finale featuring the competitive company, alumni, and even Abonyi, Fletcher and the rest of the staff.
While the recital celebrates LNDC Brantford’s competitive students – who this year racked up overall high score awards, scholarships and invitations to nationals – the show puts its focus on its recreational students.
“That recital is for them,” says Abonyi, who places a strong emphasis on recreational dance. “When I opened, one of the highest priorities was to make sure every recreational student was being trained to the best of my ability. A lot of studios who have high-achieving dancers at a competitive level, don’t [spend] the time or energy on the recreational students.”
Abonyi estimates three quarters of her recreational dancers could have gone competitive if they’d chosen to pursue that path at a young age. But not all students want to compete, she says – and a successful studio
“They are loved, they are important, and they understand that when they graduate, they are always welcome to come back,” says Abonyi, who opened her first studio in 2000 and continues to run a successful operation in Simcoe while overseeing the Brantford studio.
While she no longer teaches every class at the studio, she always makes sure to lead a few classes every season, including the “Leaps and Bounds” class – a format she created for three- and four-year-olds that exposes them to the fundamentals of ballet and jazz in their early years. “They ground you, they humble you… they keep you connected with parents and dancers.”
Many of Abonyi’s highest-achieving alumni and dancers, including reigning Junior Miss Dance Canada Isla Smith, 14, started out as Leaps and Bounds dancers. But whether dancers grow into elite competitors or simply someone who loves to dance one night a week, Abonyi’s students tend to keep their dance education close to their hearts for life.
“I have moms, who now have children [at my Simcoe studio] who were recreational dancers with me – so I’m pretty proud of that.”
Lisa Naves Dance Company Brantford and Simcoe are both currently taking registrations for Fall 2026 –visit LNDC.ca or call 226-401-4474 to sign up.
Softball, compared to baseball, is a relatively new game, developed in the late 1880’s. Believe it or not, softball was first played indoors, with a broomstick and a boxing glove tied up to look like a ball. The biggest advantage that drove softball to outdoor parks was that softball's field dimensions were much smaller than baseball's.
It had been a long time since I’d been to the Pete Lavoie fields to watch a game of softball. I had moved to Paris about 25 years ago and coached a boys' softball team at a facility that then included a wooden announcer’s booth that also served as a snack bar. Today, it is a very modern facility with a snack bar, washrooms, and two fields. The other big addition was a batting cage. Very impressive!
Last Tuesday, I was invited to watch the 5-4 Paris Girls U13 Softball team take on
visitors from Copetown. Riding a threegame losing streak, these young ladies were hoping to end the streak with a win and a very short bench.
It was a very hot evening, with a steady breeze blowing dust from a very dry infield into the visitors' bench. # 6 Kaylee came to the mound to start the game and had a very impressive start, striking out two Copetowners and, with a hit to her defense, throwing out the runner at first base. So far, we have had a perfect no-hitter game! In the bottom half of the first inning, the Paris side scored two runs on a combination of walks and misplays and a hit and a stolen base at home by #5 Alissa.At the bottom of the second inning, things started to unravel, with too many hitters being walked and Copetown scoring the maximum number of 5 runs. In the end, it was a very hot afternoon to take a 13-6 loss. I was impressed by the encouragement the players gave each other, the coaching, and the team's level of sportsmanship.
GREG GRAHAM AKA GG Paris Independent Contributor
Well folks, another round for the Paris Duffers is in the books and, to say the least, it wasn't pretty. On a very hot and humid day the heat was turned up even more with a lot of fiery putting. Before we go further it should be clarified that the first nine holes are for the purpose of scoring for the Burford Men's League. That is only the warm up for the main event. The battle for the milk! This is the serious side of golf as two teams, randomly chosen, battle in a nine hole best ball scramble. That is what we focus on in this column.
The first group out was Hoogs and Dino up against Kopper and Big Al. Soon after the start of the round Dino found an interesting way of avoiding losing his milk money by exiting early. Although I will not elaborate on his secret we hope he doesn't try it again.
This left the others as a threesome so they challenged our other three man team to fight it out. Good move on their part as they easily handled the likes of Bergy, Beats and Fever. This despite the fact that Barefoot Bergy ditched his foot-
ware regularly in an attempt to change the momentum. Or he just likes the feel of grass on his toes.
Next, Brownie and Double G refused to take strokes against Cutter and Enzo. Big mistake as they were outplayed by the dastardly duo who kept picking each other up for the entire competition. Brownie managed to hit all the targets he was aiming for if, in fact, he was aiming for trees, ponds and 150 yard markers.
Finally Big Ferg, and Big Mac (there's a lot of nicknames that have big in them) fell to Haybo and Jacquer not with a band but a whimper. Seems this one was over quickly as Jacquer and his putter would not be denied. Sometimes it's good sportsmanship not to run up the score boys. Just sayin. On the plus side Mac did a great John Daly impression by hitting three hundred yard bombs from the tee. Sure kept Enzo on his toes. On such a humid day all were in agreement their favorite hole of the day was the nineteenth where the plotting and strategy has already begun for next week. Quote of the week belongs to Cutter who said "Beats is the best range player". IYKYK. Have a great week and keep em in the fairway.
term "offensively innovated" may be better applied.
Hot has been the word of the week with Brant County Weather. And Dusters Hockey certainly has not cooled off either. Another serious 2-2 tie where the goalies kept their confidence firmly in the crease. Greg Montour just kept moving along and was not at all fazed by the G flex of the Cam Stone onslaught. Tensions certainly seemed on the rise. Likely due to the high standards of skill and decorum that the Dusters bring every week. So much, that Chris V's profane outburst ( towards his own team mate and co Dusters founder JY ) got him a yellow card. Some may call JY's play...incorrect and perhaps ill-advised and wrong? The
Cameron Kenney was shown the style of play from 1983 by hardy veteran Rob Malcolm's defense. No remorse on the blue line! Not that the Dusters are shallow, sports only men! Far from it! Kirk's stylish cargo shorts proved that. And a very special honourable mention to our good man, Bob Kivinen. Bob celebrated 38 years of marriage to the same woman by playing some hardcore left wing with the Dusters! Now that is love of the game! Bob is currently now looking for a room to rent, and if you can help, please call the special "Bob's Anniversary Gone South"...hotline! Ok well that says it! The Dusters wait for another week at the BSC and all the stories that will go with it!
A hand-carved duck decoy is part utility and part art, with a mix of history thrown in on some occasions.
The opening of the Davidson Decoy Gallery Collection offers an insight into the world of hand-carved decoys, and gives visitors a chance to see some of Ontario’s finest examples of decoy carving. Situated in the Backus Education Centre outside of Port Rowan, the gallery is located in an area steeped in waterfowling history. Carvers of the area are known by collectors across the continent.
The use of decoys to lure waterfowl into range for harvesting dates back to ancient Egypt. In North America, Indigenous peoples used decoys to bring ducks into bow-and-arrow range. Research has found reeds were a common base for Indigenous decoys. Decoy-making advanced in the 1800s, when market hunters carved wooden decoys, examples of which are highly prized by collectors today.
Wooden decoys continued to be used by the average hunter into the mid-20th cen-
tury, when cheaper plastic displaced them from common use. Some of the Long Point hunt clubs still use wooden decoys to this day. As the use of rougher hunting blocks declined, decoy carving grew as an art form, with the detail of both carving and painting reaching new heights.
The Davidson Decoy Gallery is a modern, well-lit display of decoys not only from the Long Point area but also from other areas across the entire province. The local display includes examples of decoys from the Reeves family, who are renowned across North America. Divided into sections based on the carvers’ home areas, it tells the story of waterfowling through more than 100 decoys. It also includes several examples of modern artistic carvers, including world champions such as Pat Godin, Jeffrey Krete, and Paul Burdette.
The tale of how the gallery came into being was revealed at an opening ceremony this spring. Backus curator Chloe Anna gave credit to Long Point Region Conservation Authority, which owns the Backus Conservation Area, general manager Judy Maxwell, and former curator Sarah Pointer, but said the real credit goes to Bruce Malcolm and Tom Davidson.
“Without their help, this wouldn’t be a thing,” she said. “They’re super passionate and know so much about waterfowling history.”
The journey to the display began with a phone call from Davidson, a hunter at the Lee Brown Marsh, to the marsh manager, Kim Brown.
“It started with a phone call to Kim, and I asked if there was anywhere we could buy or rent a building. He described this place,” Davidson said at the opening.
Brown was surprised at the call.
“I was in shock,” he said. “I’d seen his collection, and it was unbelievable.”
After Davidson drove to see the facility, the wheels were put in motion.
Davidson also met local Bruce Malcolm, who has been collecting decoys for
55 years. In addition to loaning their own decoys for the display, the two sourced decoys from elsewhere.
Malcolm was behind the Canadian Decoy and Outdoor Collectible Association, of which he is a member, bringing their annual show to Backus last fall. Some of the members donated decoys at that time, and the show is coming back on Sept. 19.
Davidson, who lives near Caledon, hunted the Long Point area for 45 years, at Lee Brown Marsh for 35 years, and was a member of the former Bluff’s Hunting Club on
Long Point. He has a passion for the area, saying there is nowhere the hunting is better than at Long Point.
“Our objective was to pay tribute to the great carvers of the past and try to entice collectors of the future,” he said of the display.
The gallery is open until Sept. 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday to Sunday. Extended hours are planned for the fall, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in September and October, to allow waterfowl hunters in the area to see the display.
Five graduating high school students from Brant County have each received a $1,200 scholarship from the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Brantford in recognition of their academic achievement, leadership and community involvement.
CFUW Brantford, one of 95 clubs across Canada, is dedicated to advancing the rights, education and opportunities of women and girls at the local, national and international levels.
The local club has awarded scholarships to women in Brant County every year since 1949. Through its scholarship fund, CFUW Brantford offers two streams of financial assistance: spring awards for graduating female high school students and fall awards for women who have been out of school for at least two years and are returning to education to upgrade their skills or pursue a new career. According to the organization, this year's high school recipients were selected for demonstrating
a passion for learning, intellectual curiosity and a commitment to serving their families, schools and communities.
The 2026 scholarship recipients are:
• Aisha Eldaioub, graduating from Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School, who will study social work at McMaster University.
• Destiny Foa, graduating from St. John's College, who will pursue business studies at the University of Alberta.
• Brook Henriksen, graduating from North Park Collegiate, who will study justice and law at the University of Guelph.
• Danica Petrella, graduating from Assumption College School, who has been accepted into the life sciences program at McMaster University.
• Evelyn Waldron, graduating from Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School, who will study social sciences at McMaster University.
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Several thousand residents and out-oftown visitors attended the 26th annual Wienerfest Home County Festival on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Now in its second year at the Burford Fairgrounds, the event drew well over a thousand dachshunds and various other dogs to the community.
Wienerfest founder Linda Sonnenburg said she started the festival 26 years ago as a way to meet other dog owners interested in talking about their pets. What started off as a small gathering at Spring Bank Park in London, Ontario, has now formed into a bustling event.
“My dad helped me raise my first wiener dog, so it’s always been my passion. Back then, I would get together with my friends and they would talk about their children, but I didn’t have any myself and I just wanted to talk about my dog,” she said with a laugh. “So I started this 26 years ago in London and it’s grown from a small, 40 people gathering, to having thousands of people and at least a thousand wiener dogs. Because it kept growing, we went from London to Thamesford, to Embro then Pittock and Woodstock, and now we’re here in Burford where we’ll stay. This venue supports us and Burford is just a really lovely community, and we really appreciate the warm welcome.”
When asked what was so special about dachshunds, Sonnenburg couldn’t help but smile.
“They’re just low to the ground, they’re very tenacious and they have a mind of their own. They can be very stubborn and I think it’s their personality that just wins everybody over,” she said. “There’s just something about them that you can’t get enough of, they’re kind of like potato chips, you can’t just have one.”
Throughout the event, visitors roamed the grounds. While some took advantage of shopping from the 130 vendors on site, purchasing new collars, harnesses, treats and fashionable hats for dogs, others checked out the various activities and entertainment taking place.
From the lure course, special abilities races and puppy dashes to the Top-Notch Ween Trick Show, distraction course, contests, an Oscar Mayar photo booth, the inflatable mascot fun run, and the wiener water park, there was no shortage of things to see and do.
The festival also featured a STOMPtastic line dancing show, food vendors, flash tattoos, a hot hot dog tasting contest, a memorial service for passed fur friends, nail trimming and food specialist, and the Wiener and Wheels car show.
“We have all kinds of fun events going on this weekend. Everyone loves the wiener races, and we’ve got the costume contest, the look-alike contest, and the special abilities contest,” said Sonnenburg. “Sunday is going to be really cool too because we
have our first annual mascot fun race and hot hot dog contest. We really try to make the whole event fun and enjoyable with different things going on for everybody.”
Meghan Musngi, who travelled from Toronto with her two dachshunds to attend the festival, said it was her first time at the event.
“We’ve been to another wiener dog event in the past, but it wasn’t like this; this festival is huge, we’ve already done three circles around the grounds, and there’s so much stuff to do,” she said. “I like that there’s something for the adults and stuff for the dogs, it’s been really fun. It’s also been really nice to see all the other wiener dogs here. They’re all just so cute.”
While the event was free to attend, organizers were collecting donations at the door, the proceeds of which go towards different animal rescues every year.
“At the end of the day, once we pay the bills, we give back to local rescues that don’t have the manpower to do things on their own,” said Sonnenburg. “There were 25 shih tzus recently found dumped within the fields all around Oxford County and so one of the things we’re going to look into contributing to and help with is the veterinarian care for those dogs.”
The organizer said that overall, the best part of the weekend is seeing people enjoy themselves.
“I love seeing the smiles on people’s faces, it’s just amazing,” she said. “Even our sponsors and vendors like Tom and Roxanne from Raw for Pets, genuinely make me smile. It’s a lot of work to put on this event, but when I come here and see everyone come together, looking around and having a good time, I get recharged.”
Kimberly De Jong’s reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. The funding allows her to report rural and agricultural stories from Blandford-Blenheim and Brant County.
What started in 1975 with founder Henry Hiemstra has grown into an adventure park for children of all ages. The park features a corn maze, bee discovery station, bee barrel train rides, super slides, pedal carts, an animal barn, a water park and so much more.
Hiemstra started the commercial beekeeping and honey business in 1975. He was also a hobby artist whose paintings and drawings are featured in the on-site art gallery, along with antiques, including old organs displayed near the entrance.
"My grandpa had beekeeping in his blood," said Caitlyn Suderman, granddaughter and general manager. "He was also an artist and loved to paint and draw. Some of his artwork is displayed here in the gallery."
Hiemstra moved to Canada from the Netherlands and passed his love of beekeeping on to his six sons. He started selling honey out of a small garage and
a way to attract visitors to the small town of Aylmer, so, in addition to operating the honey business, they began adding family attractions to the property.
By restoring and repurposing antique buildings and barns, they transformed the farm into something unique. Restored barns, corn cribs, pig houses and even an old train became part of the attraction.
The countless activities range from a water park to petting and feeding animals, including goats, miniature cows, sheep, chickens, a peacock and even a friendly turkey. There are also a variety of play structures, including a small combine, a kid-sized hamster wheel, a bike track, a rock-climbing wall, pillow-jumping structures and even an old airplane, allowing children’s imaginations to run wild.
On-site, visitors will also be able to attend a short presentation on how honey is made, the life cycle of bees, and the different roles bees play within the hive. Visitors learn about everything from baby bees to worker bees.
"Part of the tour is getting to touch a
"Inside the hut, we have what we call the 'five senses' experience,” said Suderman. “Guests can place their hand on top of a beehive to feel its warmth and vibration, put their ear up to another hive to hear the sounds inside, and even smell a beehive. It's a hands-on way to experience the world of bees through all five senses."
Throughout the farm, there are accessible washrooms with infant and adult changing tables, helping ensure all visitors can enjoy their visit comfortably and without wor-
ry. Guests will also find a variety of food options available on-site, with the family recently adding more locations across the property. Offerings now include everything from ice cream to smash burgers, all available at affordable prices.
“What we were finding is that with the three food locations on our busy weekdays, we couldn’t keep up with the volume, so we just need to offer more food entries and different locations,” said Suderman.
Now in its fourth generation, Suderman and her brother Justin Hiemstra work on the farm in various capacities. Caitlyn plans to take over the farm one day, while Hiemstra continues to use his handyman skills to create fun and imaginative rides and attractions for visiting children.
The pair lost their youngest brother, Jordan, who died by suicide at age 17. The family continues to honour his memory and named one of the farm's attractions Jordan's Play Fort after him. Located near the entrance, the large play structure allows children to climb high among the trees.
The family believes the foundation of healthy families is built through shared experiences and multi-generational play, something they strive to provide for visitors every day.
Tickets are available online and at the gate, although families are encouraged to purchase them in advance due to potential lineups upon arrival. Prices vary throughout the season, with tickets starting at $22 when purchased online.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.clovermead.com
I’m built grain by grain but can be washed away in minutes by the tide.
What am I?
A Sandcastle
I have no wings, but I soar high above the beach when the wind is just right.
What am I?
A Kite
I’m full of tiny treasures from the sea, but I’m empty inside.
What am I?
A Seashell
I’m worn on your face to keep the bright sun out of your eyes.
What am I?
Sunglasses
9:35 PM
I’m sweet, juicy, and green on the outside but red on the inside. I’m a popular picnic snack.
What am I?
A Watermelon
Meet our Pet of the Week:
These two gorgeous Haflinger's Cora and her foal, Caramel have been enjoying the hot summer days.
The Haflinger breed has roots reaching back to midieval times. Over time this sturdy breed transitioned from a working mountain horse into a multi-purpose driving and riding horse.
Stay tuned for more heartwarming stories every week from Paris Veterinary Clinic.
July 8 - July 14 2026
ARIES
Mar 21 - Apr 20
Momentum builds, Aries. A timely opportunity rewards patience and steady effort. Stay confident—it helps you embrace change and welcome success ahead.
Apr 21 - May 21
Confidence grows, Taurus. Reliable routines bring comfort and renewed determination. Stay adaptable—it encourages progress and creates rewarding opportunities ahead.
May 22 - Jun 21
Communication shines, Gemini. A surprising encounter inspires fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Stay curious—it encourages success and uncovers exciting possibilities ahead.
Jun 22 - Jul 22
Kindness matters, Cancer. A thoughtful gesture strengthens trust and mutual understanding. Follow your heart—it encourages harmony and deepens meaningful connections ahead.
LEO
Jul 23 - Aug 23
Creativity flourishes, Leo. An exciting project highlights your talents and confidence. Stay focused—it attracts recognition and encourages rewarding achievements ahead.
Aug 24 - Sept 22
Organization helps, Virgo. Careful planning brings confidence and noticeable progress. Trust your instincts—it encourages success and strengthens important relationships ahead.
JULY 8
Kevin Bacon, Actor (68)
JULY 9
Tom Hanks, Actor (70)
JULY 10
Sofía Vergara, Actress (54)
JULY 11
Alessia Cara, Musician (30)
LIBRA
Sept 23 - Oct 23
Optimism returns, Libra. A positive conversation encourages cooperation and fresh perspectives. Stay patient—it strengthens partnerships and supports encouraging progress ahead.
SCORPIO
Oct 24 - Nov 22
Determination grows, Scorpio. Smart choices create momentum and valuable opportunities. Trust your experience—it encourages achievement and lasting confidence ahead.
SAGITTARIUS
Nov 23 - Dec 21
Excitement builds, Sagittarius. A fresh challenge inspires confidence and renewed purpose. Follow your dreams—it encourages adventure and positive experiences ahead.
CAPRICORN
Dec 22 - Jan 20
Discipline succeeds, Capricorn. Steady progress brings reassurance and growing confidence. Stay determined—it supports advancement and meaningful accomplishments ahead.
AQUARIUS
Jan 21 - Feb 18
Inspiration returns, Aquarius. A creative breakthrough sparks excitement and fresh possibilities. Trust your vision—it encourages innovation and lasting progress ahead.
Feb 19 - Mar 20
A pleasant surprise lifts your spirits. Trust your intuition— it encourages confidence and meaningful opportunities ahead.
JULY 12
Brock Lesnar, Athlete (49)
JULY 13
Harrison Ford, Actor (84)
JULY 14
Conor McGregor, Athlete (38)
THURSDAY, JULY 9
Men’s Probus Club of Brantford Monthly Meeting - will be held on Thursday, July 9, 10:00 a.m. till noon, at Walter Gretzky Municipal Golf Course, 320 Balmoral Drive with keynote speaker Dmitri Pasricha, founder and Cyber Security Coach at TechSet, with over 18 years in the profession, who will be speaking to us on cyber security. The goal of the Probus Club of Brantford is to provide fellowship, friendship, and enjoyment for people in their retirement and semi-retirement years. Men’s Probus Club, website: brantfordprobus.ca. Mailing address: PO Box 26003, Brantford, N3R 7X4. Come join us.
FRIDAY, JULY 10
County of Brant’s Movies in the Park series - offers a delightful way to enjoy summer evenings under the stars. Visit Mount Pleasant Park on July 10 for a viewing of ‘Hoppers.’ Bring your lawn chair, blankets and snacks, along with a non-perishable food donation for the local food bank.
SATURDAY, JULY 11
Downtown Paris Street Market - from 10 am to 5 pm. Free entry. Support local, shop local. Hosted by the Rustic Palm
THURSDAY, JULY 16
Telephone City Musical Society Music in the Park Series - Enjoy an evening of free live music at Paris Lions Park with the Telephone City Musical Society Music in the Park series beginning at 6:45 pm. This week features Avery Raquel. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, relax outdoors, and enjoy great community music all month long.
SATURDAY, JULY 18
Brantford's "One and Only Flower Show" - Come out and view Brantford's "One and Only Flower Show" on July 18th from 2 - 4:30 pm at the Lions Park Auditorium in Brantford. Free Admission, Everyone welcome.
MONDAY, JULY 20 - FRIDAY, JULY 24
Summer Kids Camp Paris Baptist Church - Join our detective squad and hunt for clues to uncover the truth of who Jesus is! July 20 - 24 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Free Program Ages 5-12. Register now at parisbaptistchurch.org.
Canada has everything the world wants and needs. We have an abundance of resources and talented people. We have trade agreements with 51+ countrties. The government is travelling the world promoting Canada as a place to do business.
Canada has enormous potential. But we also need to ensure our economy is ready to compete with the best in the world and win.
The recent news that CUSMA will not be renewed and instead be subject to a rolling annual review, coupled with an uncertain world only underscore the urgency.
The 2.6 million Canadians who rely on trade with the Americans need a plan that leverages our strengths to meet the moment.
Today’s article focuses on some of what we must to do ensure our economy is primed to grow and compete.
The OECD (Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation) is the top 38 industrialized economies in the world. Canada is an OECD member. Yet, recent OECD reports indicate Canada has one of the lowest levels of business sector investment in our economy – often ranking near the bottom of OECD countries. This weak investment, particularly in machinery, equipment, and intellectual property, has resulted in a significant decline
in capital per worker and lagging productivity.
How do we seize the potential before us and ensure our economy isn’t an economic laggard? How do we attract more international investment to Canada?
One problem to address is that of overregulation. KPMG estimates there has been a 37% increase in regulations since 2006. There needs to be a focused effort to identify inefficiencies, reduce government regulatory burden and eliminate wasteful or duplicative programs.
where and how to invest. Government needs to look at how to simplify and rebalance the tax burden.
This is particularly true for entrepreneurs and start-ups. Canada is losing start-ups, and the innovation they bring, to other jurisdictions. We need to restructure taxation to reverse that.
Additionally, there are too many corporate grants that unfairly choose winners and losers. Simplifying regulations and taxes are a better way to ensure all Canadian businesses are on a level playing field to compete.
We also need to look at how to reduce the
burden businesses face from the CRA – which is too often a daily paperwork challenge.
Taxes are the other side of the coin and can impact decisions businesses make about
Restoring fiscal balance in the economy by shrinking the federal government’s spending as a percentage of GDP is important to achieving a rebalancing of the tax burden. Canada can’t continue to run deficits at unsustainable levels forever and expect it won’t impact our potential for economic growth.
Other important levers: competition and consumer choice. In too many sectors of our economy there is not enough competition. Banking, telecom, airlines, groceries to name a few. Competition laws in many European jurisdictions, as well as south of the border, have more teeth and ensure consumers have greater choice and benefit from price competition.
Each of these topics merit more exploration than the page of this paper allows. However, the point is that we need to get our house in order to see growth in GDP – which is a measure of our standard of living. We need to work on what’s holding us back. We can position Canada for the growth of the future. We can accelerate our ability to compete at a time when we need it most. There’s lots of reason for optimism. Let’s get to work.