CANADA FLAGS REEMERGE – A familiar sight in Paris. Page 9 2022 GRADUATES – Congratulations, you did it! Pages 20-21
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The Paris Independent Saturday, July 2, 2022
THIS WEEK In Community
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CANADA DAY RIDE!
MEALS ON WHEELS
Pages 4-5 In Sports
HAVE YOU TRIED LAWN BOWLING YET? Pages 13-15
In Charity
HIKE FOR HOSPICE CHAMPION!
Pages 18-19
Ride with Fire event organizer Mark Stouffer and his wife, Lesley, at the Paris Fire Station on Canada Day morning. The Stouffers, along with their children Keith and Samantha and their grandchildren, Miles and Calvin, all participated in the countywide cycling fundraiser in support of Boots on the Ground. More on page 8. Photo by Casandra Turnbull
Are you ready to make a Move ? Contact me, Your Experienced Local Realtor!
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR FOOD TRUCK NIGHTS- At Sojourn Church (112 Scott Avenue) from 4:45 pm to 7:30 pm on July 19th and August 16th. LOVE LOCAL STREET SOCIAL DAYS – Downtown Paris, Saturday, July 16th from 12 pm to 4 pm. Bring your family, friends and neighbours for a day of great shopping and dining while enjoying local talent from buskers, artists and musicians. County of Brant Library will offer activities and a heritage walking tour will also take place in the downtowns MONSTER TRUCKS IN PARIS – July 9 and 10th at the Paris Fairgrounds. Tickets on sale now online at www.ticketscene.ca/events/39965 18TH ANNUAL CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE– July 9, from 9 am to 2 pm, starting at 15 Kraemer’s Way, Brantford. Presented by Lansdowne Children’s Centre Foundation https://lansdownemotorcycleride.com/
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR PARIS NIGHT MARKET – July 22 at the . Paris Fairgrounds from 5 pm to 11 pm and Sunday, July 23 from 4 pm to 11 pm. After a two-year hiatus, we are ready for some fun! The Festival will come alive with all the things we love and have missed, including great shopping, delicious street food, refreshing drinks, live music & pop up magical entertainment. Creatives & Artisans - applications are available at www.allcanadianevents.com
TD SUMMER READING CLUB- Has kicked off, hosted by County of Brant Library. Head to your local library branch anytime all summer to register (or register online at brantlibrary.ca/beanstack), check out brand new summer books, and put your name into a draw to win fun prizes! The TD Summer Reading Club is Canada's biggest summer reading program for kids, tweens, and teens! For everything you need to know, including registration information, visit us at brantlibrary.ca/tdsrc SENSORY STORYTIME - Join a small group for a fun-filled, interactive storytime followed by open play. This program is designed for children who are on the autism spectrum or who have multi-sensory needs. Sensory Storytime runs every Saturday from June 25 to July 30. There are two different locations and times for this program - when registering, choose which location and time is best for you: * St. George Branch - 10:30 AM * Burford Branch - 1:00 PM Register at brantlibrary.ca/calendar. Parents/caregivers also participate in the program and are invited to enjoy this special time with their child. Sensory Storytime is presented in partnership with our friends at Kids Can Fly Canada! This program is generously funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
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COMMUNITY NEWS Paris Meals on Wheels: Delivering nutritious meals in town since 1967 As the need grows in the community, more volunteers are required. There are lots of ways to get involved! By Casandra Turnbull What started a small church initiative in 1967 has since grown into a full-blown program that feeds isolated citizens in need of a good home cooked meal. Meals on Wheels (MOW) is alive and well in Paris and to ensure its continued success in delivering nutritious and affordable meals, the local chapter is putting a call out for additional volunteers. They are needed to both cook and deliver the meals and you can get involved in whatever capacity suits your schedule. Typically, a volunteer will cook once every eight weeks and drivers once a month, although some volunteers choose to donate their time more often than others. And with demand high for the meals, some volunteers are doing double duty. “We have an absolutely amazing group of people – Paris is so fortunate to have them,” said Paris Meals on Wheels President Corrinne McClure, speaking of the 54 drivers and 64 cooks who ensure residents do not go hungry. Lead volunteer Melanie Pakulis coordinates all the drivers and guarantees all the routes are mapped out for delivery, while lead volunteers Nancy Wight and Wanetta Vader coordinate the magic in the kitchen making certain the meal ideas are planned and executed so that every one of the just over 50 residents receiving a hot meal has a full stomach. Shirley Kipp and Christine Ashton
take care of the financials for the Paris MOW. The program, offered not just in Paris but at 181 communities across Ontario, delivers affordable meals to a variety of people who need assistance seniors, people with physical disabilities and cognitive impairments, individuals suffering from illnesses or recovering from surgeries and those who need special dietary planning and assistance. Continued on page 5
Shannon Bennett delivers a meal to a Paris resident through the Meals on Wheels program. More volunteers, like Shannon, are required to fit the growing need in the community.
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COMMUNITY NEWS “Each team has a cook ‘lead’ and works with three other volunteer cooks that prepare the meal she and her team have designed,” explained McClure. “This meal is repeated every eight weeks. Having said that, the recipients receive 16 different meals in a two-month period. They are generally very appreciative of the work these ladies put into their meal preparation.” McClure also acknowledged the success of MOW in Paris is not only because of the volunteers who have a genuine desire to help people in the community, but also because of an excellent working relationship with the Paris Agricultural Society. They open their kitchen twice a week, Wednesdays and Fridays, so meals can be prepped, cooked and delivered, hot and fresh. She also acknowledged the generous people of Paris and its service clubs who sometimes donate the costs of meals in memory of loved ones, which enables MOW to keep the meals affordable at $3 per meal, even with the rising costs of groceries and gas. McClure, who became involved in MOW during the height of the pandemic, said giving back to the community is important to
her and this organization is very worthwhile and necessary for the Town of Paris. “I knew nothing about MOW with the exception that they cooked and delivered meals to Paris residents. I started driving and delivering the meals in April 2021 and by June, I stepped into the position I now hold – President. It seems we had lots of workers that were happy to just be workers,” she mused. Paris Meals on Wheels was founded by Jean Emerson and Reverend Stokes of St. Paul’s
Above, left to right, Nancy Dawdy-Curley; Laurie Verge; Melanie Paskulis and Joan Sims serve up meals. To the right, Marg England and Linda Charlton prepare to deliver hot meals. Photos provided by Corrinne McClure
United Church in 1967. At the time there were only five recipients. Today, volunteers meet the dietary needs of 52 residents, which they had to cap off this year to ensure the workload was manageable. Volunteers are trained and must complete a Safe Food Handling course and be willing to deliver with a smile! To learn more or to get on board, contact Corrinne at mcclure@rogers.com or by phone at 519-442-2524.
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COMMUNITY DIGEST Seen and heard around town this week… ARTS AND CULTURE The County of Brant is gearing up to undertake a new Arts, Cultural and Heritage Master Plan in the coming months and they will be asking for stakeholder and community input and engagement into how Arts & Culture activities are supported, promoted, and fostered in Brant. Do you see a need for a new art council or expanded tourism advisory council? If you love arts and culture watch EngageBrant for your chance to provide input. BRANTFORD AIRPORT It seems the Brantford Airport is set to expand in the next few years. The City of Brantford is implementing a process to establish a Vision for the Brantford Municipal Airport and as key stakeholders, the County is supporting that vision. Over the 18 months the Brantford Municipal Airport has been the target of considerable unsolicited interest for new investments from aviation-related corporations and consortiums, so stay tuned! GIANT HOG WEED The County is set to tackle a giant problem – a giant hog weed problem. They will be releasing a media campaign in the coming weeks and months to create awareness and to encourage
control of the Giant Hogweed that is invading the riverbanks along the Grand and Nith, as well as publicly used walking trails. Giant Hogweed is an Asian plant that was brought to North America about a century ago and is now spreading throughout Southern Ontario. It can be hazardous to human health as its sap will make a person’s skin extremely sensitive to sunlight. Contact to the plant, followed by exposure to the sun can cause severe burning and blistering and if the sap gets into your eyes it can lead to blindness. County staff is directed to resourcing for Giant Hogweed control as outlined in this report in the 2023 budget. WOODSLEE AVE RECONSTRUCTION Oxford Civil Group was awarded the Woodslee Ave reconstruction project at a price tag of $3,276.576.97 (excluding HST) and Ciccarelli Contractors was awarded the contract for the new Woodslee Linear Park totalling $156,597; the $65,917 in estimated costs for the park project will be funded through development charges. MARKET STREET RECONSTRUCTION Market Street Reconstruction work was awarded to Amico
Infrastructures Inc. for the bid price of $4,281,821.87 (excluding HST). The County held an information session on June 29th, regarding this major project. Here is what Councillor Steve Howes said, “For those who could not attend, the gist is that the project will start on July 11 and go block by block from Capron to Silver, replacing underground infrastructure. It will take several months (hinging on supply chain issues). Future phases will deal with going under the railway crossing and then south to Broadway. It will be a challenging time, traffic wise, around the north end of Paris and we will all have to allow a little extra travel time until this necessary project is complete.” For more details and to submit questions please see the Market Street section of the Engage Brant website. RCMP MUSICAL RIDE Councillor Chambers advised that he received an email from the Burford Agricultural Society and confirmed that in August the RCMP Musical Ride is coming to Burford. He confirmed it will be a day of celebrating music in Burford in the summertime and noted that they will be looking for event funding in the future.
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS Love Local Street Social days ahead “We are thrilled to work with local businesses and associations in the downtowns of St. George, Paris and Burford to offer an incredible day of shopping, dining and being entertained,” said Russell Press, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “Bring your family, friends and neighbours for a day of great shopping and dining
while enjoying local talent from buskers, artists and musicians. County of Brant Library will offer activities and a heritage walking tour will also take place in the downtowns. County staff will be available.” Join us at Love Local Street Social Days: •Paris: Saturday, July 16, 2022 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Pictured: Memory Lane Street Market occupied downtown Paris last weekend, featuring vintage clothing and handmade crafts, clothing and accessories, as well as deals from downtown business owners. If you didn’t get a chance to pop down, mark your calendar for July 16 from 12 pm to 4 pm and visit downtown Paris Street Social day! Photos by Michelle Malvaso
•Burford: Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm “By injecting the downtowns with some added arts, culture and heritage components on these days, we are leveraging the already great shopping and dining experiences,” said Press.
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS Cyclists enjoy Canada Day Ride with Fire
Above, Andrew and Nicole Petitti, make a stop at the Paris Station. They started their ride at the Airport Station. To the right, Lora Kikuchi and Theodore Toulis also take a short break in Paris before continuing on to St. George. Photos by Casandra Turnbull
By Casandra Turnbull Cycling enthusiasts had nice weather Canada Day morning for the inaugural Ride with Fire event, which raised funds and awareness for Boots on the Ground, an anonymous helpline that provides confidential peer support to First Responders across Ontario, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. County resident and volunteer fire fighter Mark Stouffer developed the idea not long after taking up cycling as a ‘Covid hobby.’ Challenging himself to ride further distances, it was during a trek between fire stations that the idea set in.
Spanning a 100 km loop, Ride with Fire took cyclists of all skill levels and ages, through all eight fire stations. At each stop, the rider could choose to end the race or carry on to the next station. “Registration definitely exceeded my expectations,” said Stouffer, who already confirmed the event will take place again – on Canada Day 2023. “The generosity of people who couldn’t ride but still donated directly to Boots on the Ground through this event, makes me proud to be a Canadian,” he added. Stouffer thanked the County of Brant Fire Department for their support and all the volunteer fire fighters who gave up their holiday time to make the event such a great success.
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS Spirit of Canada Day alive and well in Paris & Brant (Left) Local realtor Andrea Clendening and Paris Family Eye Care put out about 4,000 flags in and around Paris and Glen Morris. (Right) Realtor, Vicki Gergely, partnering with Cobblestone Medicine and Rehab Centres, put out approximately 7,000 Canadian flags around Brant County, and handed them out at Paris No Frills on June 30th.
By Casandra Turnbull There are a lot of things that make a small town amazing. The sense of community, safety and pride is practically bursting at the seams in Paris. As the story goes, people come here, fall in love, and never leave – at least that is my story. As a Paris resident, one of my favourite aspects of small-town living is how folks find a way to make others smile; sometimes its the smallest gestures that are felt the most. Canada Day is an excellent example. If you’ve lived here long, you’ll know that every year little Canadian flags magically appear at the ends of driveways throughout town. They are carefully placed by local realtors
and business owners looking to spread some patriotism and cheer for Canada’s birthday. You’ll usually know who delivered the gift, based on the business card provided with the flag. It’s a unique way of advertising, but also one that takes money, time and a whole lot of effort. The end result, though, has the town buzzing with appreciation. For me, the excitement mounted earlier this week as I approached my neighbourhood and noticed all the flags. It brought an instant smile to my face and I was once again reminded how proud I am to live in this town. A big THANK-YOU to everyone who helped place these flags that certainly enhanced the patriotic vibe in town.
Local realtor Andrea Clendening and Paris Family Eye Care put out about 4,000 flags in and around Paris and Glen Morris. It took a team of 17 volunteers. Realtor, Vicki Gergely, partnering with Cobblestone Medicine and Rehab Centres, put out approximately 7,000 Canadian flags around Brant County, and handed them out at No Frills in Paris on June 30th.
If you know someone who helped decorate the town for Canada Day and want to give them a shout out, feel free to submit a letter to the editor at stories@theparisindependent.com Happy Canada Day everyone!
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS O’Pancake! Worth the wait in St. George! County residents flocked to St. George yesterday for the return of the popular Canada Day Pancake breakfast presented by the St. George Firefighters & The St. George Lions Club. Decked out in red and white, residents waited in long lines to get their tasty breakfast. Proceeds from donations went towards the Fire & Thunder Canada Day Fireworks Show.
The excitement was real, people were happy to celebrate in person for the first time in two years. St. George Firefighters Association photos
Don’t throw out those flags! Paris resident Kevin Allan and his partner are collecting Canadian flags – as many as 360 if not more– to ship to a friend of Kevin’s who lives in Belgium. On November 11, his friend takes the flags and places them on the graves of Canadian soldiers at a cemetery near his home. Kevin plans to ship all flags collected near the end of October. This is the fifth year he’s collected the flags and said he appreciates everyone’s support. You can drop off your flags to a donation box located at 28C Griffiths Dr, Paris.
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY NEWS Water conservation urged throughout the Grand River watershed MEDIA RELEASE: Water users throughout the Grand River watershed are being asked to cut their consumption by 10 per cent, because of the unusually dry weather this year. Low rainfall since April has contributed to reduced stream flows in a number of tributaries throughout the watershed, and the Grand River Conservation Authority is using its large upstream reservoirs to augment river flows in order to maintain low flow targets on the Grand and Speed rivers. The call for the reduction came from the Grand River Low Water Response Team, which held a virtual meeting on Wednesday. The team is made up of representatives of major water users including municipalities, farmers, golf course operators, water bottlers, aggregate businesses and others. The Low Water Response Team decided to place the entire watershed at Level 1 under the Ontario Low Water Response Program. Level 1 results in a request for a voluntary 10 per cent reduction in water consumption by all water users, including municipalities, aggregate operations, golf courses, water bottlers, farms for irrigation and private users. For residents, the most effective thing they can do right now is to follow their municipal outdoor water use bylaws, which limit watering to specific days and times. The Grand River watershed received very little rainfall in June, which has further contributed to the dry conditions. There is some rain in the forecast however, anticipated precipitation amounts remain quite low” according to Stephanie Shifflett, GRCA Water Resources Engineer. The dry conditions combined with diminishing river and stream flows can place stress on the natural environment in the Grand River and its tributaries”.
The GRCA’s large reservoirs are within their normal operating range for this time of year, but increased discharges to maintain flow targets, coupled with high evaporation and low inflows means water levels will continue to drop. The GRCA is operating these reservoirs carefully to meet flow targets downstream, while maintaining storage in order to help augment flows throughout the summer. Over the past week, augmentation from GRCA reservoirs accounted for approximately 85% of the flow in the Grand River through Kitchener, 40% of the flow through Brantford and about 50% of the Speed River flow through Guelph. This augmentation helps municipalities that get some, or all of their drinking water from the Grand River including Waterloo Region, Brantford and Six Nations. Water from these reservoirs also support the proper operation of about 30 wastewater treatment plants throughout the watershed. As the augmentation season progresses, the conditions of the reservoirs will be closely monitored and reviewed. More information on the Low Water Response Program is available on the GRCA website at www.grandriver.ca.
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July 2, 2022
COMMUNITY EVENT Locals gather to hear John Bemrose’s heartfelt introduction of The River Twice Click on photo to watch video
John Bemrose with Sharon, County of Brant Library Paris branch staff member, at last Sunday’s book reading. Bemrose grew up in Paris and this latest novel is set in Paris post World War One. See last week’s copy of The Paris Independent for a full review. All photos by Michelle Malvaso If you’d like a copy of John’s book they are available downtown at Green Heron Books
Above, Nancy Hayward, originally from Paris, now living in Portland OR, has her copy of the book signed. To the right, it was a packed room at the Library as interested residents gathered to hear Bemrose speak.
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S P O RT S Have you tried Lawn Bowling? Tucked away from the bustle of Grand River Street North, down by the river, sits the historical Paris Lawn Bowling Club
By Casandra Turnbull Maybe you’re looking to take up a new sport. Not something that would involve a great deal of athletic ability, but perhaps one that would include a little bit of strategy, comradery and just the right amount of luck. Wouldn’t it be ideal if you could play with friends, down by the picturesque Grand River, as you unwind from a busy day? If any of this sounds enticing, you should check out the Paris Lawn Bowling Club as it might just be the perfect way to pass a summer, while challenging yourself to master a
new sport. Your pending membership might also save the club from demise. The club is struggling financially and will cease to exist in the near future without new members according to its website. “Help us keep the club going. Come on out and join us for some outdoor sports entertainment,” said President Rick Brzostowski, extending an open invite to everyone in the community. “It’s a magical summer evening down by the Grand River.” Continued on page 14
It’s never too soon to play lawn bowls. In fact, children under 12 get a free membership, so bring the whole family out for a little fun this summer. New members are encouraged to ensure the continuation of the longstanding club. Photos provided by the Paris Lawn Bowling Club
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S P O RT S The Lawn Bowling Club is very much a part of Paris’ original fabric, dating back to 1884. Its origins are traced to Andrew Baird’s front yard, before relocating to Paris Presbyterian Church grounds. It eventually found permanent roots, across the road at 169 Grand River St N before the start of the twentieth century. The long-standing sport, which can be described as a cross between bocce ball and curling, has held its own in Paris for nearly 140 years, without its hardships of course. Club membership dipped to 13 members in 2015 and on the brink of extinction, a call to action by resident David Powell saw numbers climb back up to 75 people in 2019. However, like other Covid casualties, the pandemic wreaked havoc on its membership momentum and last year the numbers dropped to 36 again. To help turn things around, the club is looking for members through new advertising platforms, particularly social media campaigns and by word-of-mouth. “We are seeing an influx of younger members this year and many are new residents of Paris looking to meet people and make new friends,” said Brzostowski. So far, things are on the upswing again with 48 members so far this year. “We recently explored different advertising strategies to try and promote the game to a younger demographic. It has been a challenge to try and get rid of the stigma that one must be retired to play lawn bowls,” he added.
Members help newcomers learn the sport during an open house held at the Paris Lawn Bowling Club last month to help boost membership.
Brzostowski joined the club about 7 years ago when he was introduced to the sport through his wife’s involvement in the Women’s Institute. It’s not uncommon for various community groups and organizations to drop by the club to learn more about sport. He said it didn’t take long before he was hooked. Newer members Ryan and Claire agree with Brzostowski, stating it was ‘love at first play.’ “We wanted to try something new, have a chance to meet new people but most importantly find an activity
that we can do together,” said the Paris couple. “Hearing about the Lawn Bowling Club, on one of our local community Facebook groups, we thought, why not? With zero experience, we attended a recent open house and signed up for a membership shortly after.” They added the history of the club is something to be cherished and they hope it can be carried on through interest from like-minded residents. “We are glad to have found this little gem in our growing town.” Continued on page 15
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COMMUNITY NEWS Another motivation for the club should thrive is extensive renovations planned for the aging building. The 75-year-old clubhouse was built in 1948 but was eventually turned over to the Town of Paris for $1 when membership dwindled, and they could no longer afford the upkeep in 1986. The County of Brant inherited the clubhouse and its property from the Town of Paris during amalgamation. Although appropriate to its setting and not without its charms, the existing clubhouse is nearly 75 years old and requires updating to today’s standards. It was determined through a 2019 relocation/renewal report that the building be replaced with a new multi-purpose facility that can be used year-round, not just for the Lawn Bowling Club members, but also for senior’s programming and general public rentals. The
existing footprint will be maintained on the site, with modern accessible facilities, according to Kathy Ballantyne, Director of Parks & Facilities for the County of Brant. The county’s consulting architect is engaging with stakeholders to develop drawings and documents with the hopes of preparing a tender call in 2023, pending council approval.
So, if you want to be part of this exciting new development, or just meet new friends while taking up a great, easy-to-learn sport, Brzostowski invites you out on Tuesday or Thursday evenings at 7pm when members play. “We are a friendly, relaxed group of people enjoying an easy to learn game in a hidden gem of a location in Paris,” and of course, no experience is required! “There is no dress code and training for beginners is always available.” The registration/membership fee, which goes a long way to support the club, is very a $90 for the season. Children under 12 are admitted free of charge. To learn more about the club, visit their website https://parislawnbowlingclub.ca/
LET’S PARTY! Members of the Paris Historical Society Board look over newspaper clippings from 1972, when the PMHS was first formed. Reminiscing of days gone by, while celebrating the successes ahead, a 50th anniversary party will take place on September 18. Mark your calendars for an afternoon of fun at Lion’s Park with more details to follow! PMHS photo
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July 2, 2022
LOCAL HISTORY
Paris Past By Chris Whelan The History of the Paris Lawn Tennis and Bowling Club (as it was originally named) can’t be told without starting with one man, Andrew Hugh Baird, owner of The Wincey Mills Co., was a son of Nicol Hugh Baird, Civil Engineer, and Mary Telfer nee White, and was born in Montreal, March 1st, 1834. Both parents were from Scotland. His father spent some time in Russia, as a Civil Engineer, coming to Lower Canada three or four years before Andrew was born. The latter was educated in private; at fourteen years of age left Montreal for Paris, where he became a clerk for Charles Whitlaw, the leading flour and grain dealer in Paris. Mr. Baird was a very active and efficient businessman and had done a great deal of solid work in the municipalities of the town of Paris and the County of Brant. He was on the town council for sixteen years and has been deputy reeve, reeve, and warden (1872; was eight or ten years in the School Board; has been Mayor since 1877 and has had much to do with shaping the municipal laws and enforcing them, and with improving the Public School system of this town, Paris being somewhat noted for the high grade of its schools. For several years he took an active part in the volunteer system. He attended the Military School, took a First-Class certificate, and retired in 1870 with the rank of Captain. He was at one time President of the Paris Mechanics Institute and had a hand in all local enterprises of the least consequence. He was a member of the Masonic Order, and was Master of St. John’s Lodge, No. 82, in 1877. The wife of Mr. Baird is Cynthia, daughter of Horace Capron, of Paris, and niece of Hiram Capron, founder of the town. They were married October 24, 1858, and have five children, two sons and three daughters. RIGHT: PARIS TENNIS CLUB, JULY 1901. Front Row: Frank Clark, Helen Jones, Lou Simpson, Allie Craig, Hilda Aitkin, Margaret Allan,Nora Craig, J.M.Hall, Mame Simpson, Madeline Dewar, Milner Hall, Letty Allan,Lillian Wickson Miss.MacKinney, S.Nesbit Moffat, Walter Collins, Alan Foley, Campbell Tibbs, Ken Watson, Maude Mc.Kinnon, Tom J.Murray. Children in Front.......Hal Macpherson and Connie Foley Back Row: Mrs. Boultbee, Mrs. Balingal Brown, Mrs. Aitkin, Mrs. Dear, Miss Elizabeth Curtis, Mrs. R. Thomson, Miss Kintrea, Bessie Thomson, Maggie Carnie, Dr.Mc.Pherson, Mrs. Whitby Jean Hall, Miss E.Armstrong, Miss Jane Capron, Margaret Hall, Gordon Smith, Mrs. Allan, Mrs. Baldwin, Maude Whitlaw, Capt.Peter Cox, Mrs.R.C. Macpherson,Mrs. Temple, Mr.Macpherson Mrs. Cox, Mrs. Foley, Mrs. Simpson, Madeline Acres, Mrs. Cockburn, 2unnamed house maids, Mrs. Whitlaw, Mrs. Baird, Janet Whitlaw, Mrs. Dr. Thomson, Andrew Baird. Photos: Paris Museum & Historical Society
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July 2, 2022
LOCAL HISTORY The Paris Lawn Tennis and Bowling Club is one of the oldest clubs in Canada, second only to The Caer-Howell Bowling Club in Toronto which was in existence in 1837, from which date a minute book exists (fonds located at Archives Ontario). Prior to 1883, lawn bowling was practiced on Elm Street, and was later moved to Andrew Baird’s front lawn. In 1883, the sport took place at the Presbyterian Church grounds. In 1884 – The Paris Lawn Tennis and Bowling Club was established. There were 25 members. This This 15 room Manor home was built in the 1860s for Andrew Baird at 194 Grand River Street North, Paris, ON. This house was is the first recorded instance of a one of the first 3 houses in the world to have a telephone. tournament where players went to the Arlington for dinner afterwards. Once the church purchased the property, the greens moved to its current location (169 Grand River Street North), which, was rented from Mrs. Davis for a number of years until in 1928 Reginald Thompson purchased the property and donated it to the club. A donation made by Mr. Turnbull allowed for the addition of the south green for bowling. Also, in 1928 a meeting was held at the Community Hall to determine if a ladies’ section should be created in the club. Thirty women signed up to become members on that date. The ladies section Paris Museum: May 25, 1908. At this tournament, the Paris team played continued into the 1980’s. St. George, Troy, & Brantford Teams. Shown is the original clubhouse. While early original records call the club by the name of the Paris Lawn Tennis and Bowling Club, the two sports eventually belonged to separate organizations, which is clear by about 1912. Special to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club is its perseverance throughout the depression and war. While many clubs suffered during these years, the Paris Lawn Bowling Club has never had an inactive year since its establishment. Originally, a small clubhouse for men and 20 well-kept bowling greens were present on the lot. A women’s clubhouse used to be located in a corner by the greens, and on the same side were tennis courts that were later replaced by horseshoe pitches. There was also a 10-foot wide boardwalk along the river’s edge of the property. It is said that trainloads of players from England would travel to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club for tournaments, and then go to the Arlington for dinner and head back to the train station to travel to other Canadian cities for the sport. The club became incorporated in 1927, and in 1949, the men and women’s clubs merged after renovations allowed for a much larger clubhouse to be built in place of the previous men’s building. The new $10,000 club was open to its members on May 24, 1949. In 1986, the club was sold to the town of Paris for $1 and the club has been maintained by the County of Brant ever since. Council must soon decide the future fate of this valuable historic landmark.
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SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITY Paris woman’s remarkable dedication to Stedman Hospice stems from the heart By Carolina Saenz
Hike for Hospice celebrated its 18th year on May 15th, 2022. This fundraising event invites people of all ages to participate and support Stedman Community Hospice (SCH). Paris resident, Daneka Miller, has experienced first-hand the support that SCH offers to the community. Motivated by her experience and in loving memory of her mother, Miller completed her 6th hike this year. “To me, hospice means hope. A safe, caring environment where you become a family again instead of a caretaker. The hospice supports their patients so well as if they were their own family. Their main goal isn’t to fix the dying, it’s to make them comfortable before they go. They give families back their sense of family,” writes Miller, who was just 13 years old when her mother Cindy Miller was diagnosed with brain cancer in November 2016. In January 2017, after brain swelling and seizures had paralyzed her left side, Miller’s mom was admitted to hospice care. She passed away on March 10th, 2017, just a month before her daughter’s 14th birthday. The care, sympathy, and support provided by SCH is life-
Over the past six years, Daneka Miller has fundraised an estimated total of $45,000- $50,000 for Stedman Hospice in memory of her mom, Cindy. This year alone, she raised $7,550 individually and $10,170 with her team.
changing. A part of the St. Joseph’s Health System, it offers both long-term care and hospice services. It is also the largest Long Term Care Home in Brantford and Brant County, and only one of two notfor profit homes in the area. SCH not only cares for patients and supports families, but staff do what they can to help fulfill final wishes. Continued on page 19
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SPOTLIGHT ON CHARITY “My mom, being a teacher, wanted so badly to see me graduate grade 8. When she was admitted to the hospice in January of 2017 they made it all come together in less than 3 days. When entering hospice care, tomorrow isn’t always a promise. They rocked every little detail and made my mom so happy to see that,” Miller explains. And just one and a half months after her mom’s passing, Miller participated in her first Hike for Hospice. Since then, she has been participating at the annual event and even completed a co-op opportunity at the hospice during grade 11. “The hospice motto of you are loved every step of the way is so true, I have felt so loved over the last 6 years. They never stop supporting you,” shares Miller. That’s why it’s easy for Miller to support SCH because donations and events such as Hike for Hospice are extremely important, as the hospice relies heavily on donations and volunteers to operate. “They receive little government funding and receive most funding from the community, and I think that’s what makes it so special. A community that comes together to support each other and provide in times of need. People should support the hospice because you never know if one day it will impact your family. It truly is a beautiful place that impacts so many different people, and you can see how grateful patients, volunteers and staff are for the support and donations of the community,” assures Miller.
In addition to the Hike for Hospice, there are other ways to contribute to SCH. Volunteer positions are available to support families, help in the kitchen, or in the gardens. There is also a Handbags for Hospice event in October and donations are welcome and appreciated anytime of the year. Over the past six years, Miller has fundraised an estimated total of $45,000- $50,000. This year alone, she raised $7,550 individually and $10,170 with her team. Miller acknowledges the importance of community support and thanks her family, as well as Punt Installations, Bell City Carpet One, The Fit Effect, and Hoggs Installations. “Every person and their families at end of life deserve to have cost-free care, as well as the chance to be a family at
the most critical times in life. I believe that people deserve to pass comfortably with their families away from the business of a hospital. What keeps me going is my mom, I know that she would see my chances to inspire others- not just adults but kids as well. Children impacted by death and the amazing work of hospice care are the future of it. It keeps me going knowing that others are going to be inspired by my story and will help others have a story like mine, of hope,” Miller adds. She plans to continue participating for many years to come, fundraising and also speaking about hospice care. “Tomorrow isn’t always promised, and remember you are loved every step of the way,” Miller concludes.
Stedman Hospice helped fulfill Cindy Miller’s final wish to see her daughter graduate grade 8 before she passed away. This is just one reason why Daneka (left) fundraises and advocates for the local hospice.
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July 2, 2022
2 0 2 2 G R A D U AT E S “Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson
(Above) Emmajayne GatesPatterson, Grade 12 grad at PDHS and (left) Kaiden Gates, Grade 8 grad at Cobblestone Elementary School. Photo submitted by proud mom Melissa Patterson
(Above) Blake is a proud Kindergarten graduate and his parents are very proud of his accomplishments.
(Left) Amelia Flint graduated from Grade 8 at North Ward School last week. All the best in high school, Amelia!
(Left) Caitlyn, Grade 12 grad from St John's College. Congrats Caitlyn, we are so proud of you. Love Mom, Dad, Syd, Carleigh and Sadie
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July 2, 2022
2 0 2 2 G R A D U AT E S (Left) Caden McLeod is part of the 2022 PDHS graduating class – congrats on a job well done.
(Left) Ethan Barnett is another Grade 8 grad off to high school next year. His parents are proud of his accomplishments and can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds for him
(Above) Austin Wight is a Burford Elementary Grade 8 grad. Parents Annette and Kevin are very proud of his determination and wish him all the best in high school.
(Left) Ryan Airdrie collected a mathematics and male athlete award and graduated with honours from his recent Grade 8 graduation – and now he’s off to high school!
(Left) Roman’s family is proud to share he is officially a Pre-K graduate.
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July 2, 2022
COUNTY NEWS County receives more grant funds to offer digital support to area businesses MEDIA RELEASE: The County of Brant is pleased to announce that it will once again offer digital support and coaching to local businesses as a result of a grant from the Digital Main Street program for a two-year Digital Service Squad program. The program provides small business owners with the tools and support needed to digitally transform their businesses.
Brant that has a brick-and-mortar commercial store and is open to the public, you are eligible to receive coaching from this program,” said Press. Digital Service Squads offer trained specialists who meet with small businesses, at no cost, to help them complete an online assessment and introduce them to online training modules designed to build their digital knowledge and skills. Squad members are also trained to help qualified small businesses with the development of their Digital Transformation Plan and then with the application process for a $2,500 Digital Transformation Grant.
“The County is thrilled to receive a $95,095.00 grant from the Digital Main Street program to continue offering this service to the business community,” said Russell Press, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “Having a strong online presence is critical for most “Small businesses are innovative and businesses and increasingly important are the entrepreneurial, but often lack the resources to digital tools available to assist with the respond to change, be resilient, yet flexible,” said management of a business.” Kay Matthews, Executive Director, Ontario Examples of one-on-one assistance includes: Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA). • establishing social media platforms and a social media strategy For more information, email DSS@brant.ca. • setting up a Google Business Profile • enhancing a website • basic digital storefront setup
• 360⁰ photos • establishing software for payroll or inventory management, and more This is the fourth grant the County of Brant has received, totalling $188,245. To date, 46 local businesses have been supported through the $2,500 Digital Transformation Grant. “If you operate a business within the County of
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July 2, 2022
T R AV E L Slowing the pace in Gozo After a week on my own I was ready for company! Carol and Steve are coming to Malta, and while Steve is only here for a week, Carol will stay until the end of my trip. Carol and I worked together for many years and, since we’ve both retired, we’ve been doing many things together. We are planning another few days together in Rome at the end of our trip. Carol and Steve were set to leave Pearson Airport at about 9:15 pm June 21 and arrive in Malta via a connecting flight in Amsterdam, June 22 at 2:50 pm. There is a 6-hour time difference between Malta and Canada. To say “things didn’t go as planned” is likely the understatement of the year!
Carol and Steve at The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven, in the Cittadella of Victoria in Gozo, Malta. Photos by Karon Sinning
Citadel at Gozo
They arrived in plenty of time at Toronto airport, checked in and then the delays started. They were delayed leaving Toronto by close to 3 hours, which meant they were likely going to miss their connecting flight in Amsterdam. Arriving in Amsterdam, as the Air Malta flight departed (Steve saw it taxiing on the runway) they were told there were no other flights to Malta. They had now been travelling about 13-14 hrs overnight, 3 hrs early at the airport, 3 hr delay and a 78 hr flight to Amsterdam. Arriving in Amsterdam at about 11:30 am. They were then told they were being put on a flight to Heathrow Airport in the UK at 5:40 pm, for a connecting flight to Malta! Continued on page 24
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T R AV E L There is a 1-hr time difference between Amsterdam and London and the flight time is about 1 hour 40 minutes. The flight from Heathrow to Malta left at 8:30 pm; arriving in Malta at 12:40 am. Another approximately 13 hours travel time. Discounting the time they woke up on travel day, and who among us sleeps like a baby the night before, the travel time is now up to 26-27 hours. Originally 7.5 hours from Toronto to Amsterdam, 3 hours Amsterdam to Malta, totalling 10-11 hours of travel time, turned into 26-27 hours of travel time to Malta. They were not alone on that flight, since there were many other travellers with similar stories! Finally…..they made it to Malta….but no luggage. After filling out a multitude of forms along with a throng of other travellers in the middle of the night, they finally arrive at the apartment about 2:30 am. The luggage did eventually arrive…just not both pieces at the same time. Only Steve’s arrived. Then the driver went back to the airport and got Carol’s. Arriving at Toronto airport at 4 pm June 21 and the apartment in Malta, June 23 at 2:30 am. Travel time from Canada to Malta: 34.5 hours. This is not just a story….this is a real problem. Allowing time for the massive jet lag and the luggage to finally arrive, we spent their first full day, and Carol’s birthday, relaxing.
Victoria, Gozo (above) and Fields on Gozo (below)
Our next stop was the Ggantija Temple. Even though I’d had a previous visit, the sight is still awe inspiring. Steve and Carol both enjoyed this experience. Built about 5,000 years ago, it just amazes me that this size of structure was achieved with primitive (to modern standards) tools. These temples were built before the use of metal.
One of the things we found unique to Gozo was the closure of most stores during the afternoon hours. Between 12:30 and about 4:30 pm shops shut down and then reopen until 7:00 pm. I asked one owner if this was due to the heat and he just shrugged and said, “no, we’ve always done it.” Evidence of the more laid back lifestyle. Continued on page 25
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T R AV E L Friday we were off to Gozo. We took a taxi to the ferry terminal which by Malta standards is a long way from the apartment (28 KM). Arriving there with minutes to spare, we jumped out of the cab and immediately started chasing other people who looked to be running for the same ferry. As we ran, staff along the way were shouting at us all to hurry up! We ran a little faster. Coming around the corner it was now apparent that we were entering the ramp for the vehicles, not the ticket booth. Staff still shouting to hurry up, we ran in. Ticketless! Within minutes of setting foot inside, the door was closed and off we went, stowaways. Coming back to Malta, you are still required to buy a return ticket, so even though we hadn’t paid to get there, we paid for both ways when returning.
bought Hop-on, Hop-off bus tour tickets for the next day. Temperatures on Gozo when we arrived were 36-38C. We opted for the next day’s tour to start early, when it would hopefully be a bit cooler.
facility perched up on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This site, as with so many of the historic Maltese buildings, has been lovingly restored and maintained. Going into these historic buildings, you don’t have to imagine what it looked Checking in at Casa Gemelli was like newly built, they feel and another pleasure. Sarah and I had look like new. previously stayed here, and Anna (the owner) remembered me. It Sadly, even leaving in the felt like a friend greeted morning for the bus tour didn’t us! This boutique hotel is an mean it was any cooler. But the oasis in the heart of Victoria. The tour bus offered a great narrative rooms are opulently appointed, on the areas we passed through big airy spaces and the air and the ability to stop and conditioning was sublime after browse where we wanted. Our the heat of the day. Breakfast first stop was the Ta’ Dbiegi craft was included and was delicious market in Gharb. This was more the next morning. In my opinion what I had thought of as a craft Casa Gemelli has the best coffee market. While it was too hot for in all of the Maltese islands. outdoor stalls, many small air conditioned buildings dotted the After checking in, Anna made a area offering many local reservation for us at Maldonado handmade items: glass, pottery, for dinner. While finding the lace, jewelry and iron works. We restaurant was a bit of a had a cold drink here in a small challenge with the very narrow cafe before boarding the next sidewalks (nonexistent at some bus. points), traffic and heat, once there, dinner was wonderful. Getting back to the hotel was Column written and easier and cooler!
Gozo is a much smaller island than Malta and life here is at a slower pace. Gozo is very close to Malta, actually it was a quicker trip on the ferry, than the cab ride from the apartment to the terminal! We were travelling light, so on arrival we just With some time before dinner, hopped on public transportation we took a walking tour of the into Victoria and our hotel. Gozo Citadel. This is another example of an ancient, walled Before leaving the terminal, we
submitted by Paris resident Karon Sinning as she travels cross Europe. Follow us next week for more of Karon’s adventures.
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ASTROLOGY
July 2, 2022
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July 2, 2022
ASTROLOGY
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Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford For Saturday July 2, 2022 Minions: The Rise of Gru Standard 12:30p.m. 2:15p.m. 2:50p.m. 4:40p.m. 5:10p.m. 3D 7:30p.m. 9:50p.m. Top Gun: Maverick Standard 11:50a.m. 2:55p.m. 6:10p.m. 9:30p.m. Jurassic World Dominion Standard 11:40a.m. 3:10p.m. 6:30p.m. 9:50p.m. 3D 7:00p.m. 10:15p.m. Lightyear Standard 11:30a.m. 1:30p.m. 4:20p.m. 7:00p.m. 9:40p.m. Elvis Standard 12:50p.m. 2:40p.m. 6:20p.m. 10:00p.m. The Black Phone Standard 12:00p.m. 4:30p.m. 7:20p.m. 10:00p.m. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Standard 12:20p.m. 3:30p.m. 6:40p.m. 9:45p.m. Pokémon Detective Pikachu Standard 11:00a.m.
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