WALKER PRESS REVITALIZATION IN JEOPARDY! See story on pages 6-7 FORMER PARIS RESIDENT EXPERIENCES B.C. FLOODS FIRST HAND. Pages 12-13
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The Paris Independent Saturday, November 27, 2021
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PARIS REMEMBERS BELOVED MAYOR
In Community
DRIVE THRU CHRISTMAS DISPLAY RETURNS Pages 4-5
In Sports
SKATING CLUB AWARDS Pages 10-11 In Health Jack Bawcutt (front centre) pictured with the final council for the Town of Paris in 1998 before amalgamation. Photo: Paris Museum & Archives
HOPE FOR HEALTHCARE Pages 22 - 23
Former Paris Mayor and Citizen of the Year Jack Bawcutt passed away on November 22, 2021, after a short illness, he was 98. Read about his incredible life and accomplishments inside on Page 8.
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Email theparisindependent@gmail.com with your community calendar submission. Help us share community news!
Publisher Managing Editor Advertising Sales Photographer News Reporter News Reporter
Chris Whelan Casandra Turnbull Chris Whelan Michelle Malvaso Carolina Saenz Bailey Zimmer
STATEMENT We are a non profit organization made up of like minded volunteers from our community with the main purpose of providing our community of Paris and area with a trustworthy and reliable source of community news. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of everything we publish, we regret any errors that may occur. We limit our liability to that of printing a retraction upon notification of such errors in the next available publication. Our mail and Email addresses are listed below:
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The Paris Independent
November 23, 2021
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COMING EVENTS FOR NOVEMBER & DECEMBER 2021 NOVEMBER 2021
DECEMBER 2021
Kiwanis Breakfast With Santa November 27th at St. James Parish Hall
Open House Bottoms Up Clothing Boutique December 3rd 4:00-8:00 & December 4th 10:00-5:00
Rotary Club information session Monday, November 29th at 6:30 PM at Stillwaters. https://fb.me/e/2Dx8JvMQP They ask that interested people RSVP by email to dalejhall@yahoo.ca Sojourn Church Giving Tuesday Fundraiser on November 30th from 6-9 p.m. Family friendly event includes a sports skills contest and a creative building contest with gift card prizes for the fastest sports time and the best builds by age group. To register in advance please visit Onside and EPIC Giving Tuesday Fundraiser Tickets, Tue, 30 Nov 2021 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite. DECEMBER 2021
Drive Thru Christmas Displays at the Paris Fairgrounds December 4th http://www.parisfairgrounds.com/
Saturday, December 4, All Canadian Events presents Paris Christmas Market at the Paris Fairgrounds, Saturday December 4, 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday December 5 11 am to 3 pm. Admission $5.
Brantford Symphony Orchestra Christmas Bells are here again! December 11 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm - After a pandemic-forced interruption to Brantford’s big symphony extravaganza, it’s time to come back! Dust off your bells (remember those?) and bring them along to ring in the Christmas season with a sleigh full of your favourite Christmastime music. Make up for the time when there were no concerts or special events. Join in the excitement of live music at the Sanderson Centre with your Brantford Symphony Orchestra! Ticket prices: $40 in-person, $15 virtual attendance. Bring your
County Offices Closed Donations to County of Brant Paris Office
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November 27, 2021
COMMUNITY NEWS DRIVE THRU CHRISTMAS DISPLAY RETURNS TO PARIS FAIRGROUNDS Volunteers strike a pose during the 2020 Drive Thru Christmas Display. The event returns this year offering residents a chance to enjoy the festive sights from the comfort of their own vehicle. Photo courtesy of Paris Agricultural Society
By Casandra Turnbull The Drive Thru Christmas Display will be back at the Paris Fairgrounds next weekend so families can enjoy a twist on a very popular tradition in Paris. Without the popular Christmas parade downtown last year and this year, residents can fill that holiday void by driving to the fairgrounds to take in the festive season, without having to leave the warmth and comfort of their own vehicle. The reverse take on a traditional parade debuted in Paris last year. More than 2,500 cars travelled through the grounds, privately owned and operated by the Paris Agricultural Society, in just four short hours. Organizers were thrilled with the overwhelming attendance, and their success was further backed by a Certificate of Achievement from Festival and Events Ontario. The stationary parade will be very similar to last
year except you may notice more human interaction. With fewer restrictions, organizers can allow people to be in the displays and interact with families, providing they take adequate precautions, explained Cheryl Muir, Manager of the Paris Agricultural Society. “This year we are allowing representatives of (participating) organizations to hand out candy canes through car windows and to receive donations of cash and food items for the Paris Christmas Hampers. All volunteers interacting with others must be masked and no one is to leave their vehicles,” said Muir.
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“Come with patience as yes, the line up can be slow, but that’s the whole idea – to enjoy the sights of Christmas.” Continued from Page 4 To help combat traffic congestion, organizers have implemented a few new measures they hope will reduce the wait time. However, attendees should still be prepared to wait. “Come with patience as yes, the line up can be slow, but that’s the whole idea – to enjoy the sights of Christmas,” said Muir. Motorists are also urged to exercise common courtesy and keep the flow of traffic moving. This year’s event will be open an hour longer to create extra time for everyone to visit, and there will be additional signs to prepare people for upcoming donation collection points, to keep vehicles moving. The displays, a total of 29 this year, will be laid out in a fashion that covers 100 acres of the property. Motorists are asked to enter through Gate #4 at the west end of the fairgrounds closest to the horse barns. The Paris Firefighters Club will be on site to collect donations and of course jolly old Saint Nick will be at the end waving to families hoping to catch a glimpse of him at the end of the displays. The event is brought to you by the Paris Agricultural Society and sponsored by Platinum Living Realty Team and Dufferin Aggregates. It is open to the public from 4 pm to 9 pm on Saturday, December 4th only. .
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SUBMIT YOUR SUGGESTIONS FOR COUNTY’S 2022 BUDGET MEDIA RELEASE: The County of Brant is excited to engage with County of Brant residents regarding the 2022 proposed budget. The proposed budget for 2022 is still a work in progress and public input is needed to ensure we are meeting the needs of our residents. The County of Brant encourages public input through Engage Brant prior to the Committee of the Whole meeting on November 30, 2021. Engage with us! Visit www.EngageBrant.ca/budget2022. Consideration of the Proposed 2022 Budget & Decision Making A Committee of the Whole meeting will be held on November 30, 2021 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. To view the meeting on November 30, 2021, please visit the County of Brant's YouTube Channel(External link). December 21 2021 Budget Approval at Council To view the Council meeting on December 21, 2021, please visit the County of Brant's YouTube Channel(External link).
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November 27, 2021
WA L K E R P R E S S S P O T L IG H T REVITALIZATION OF HISTORIC BUILDING IN JEOPARDY
Ben Ames, Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Forge & Foster presented a delegation to Brant County Council on Tuesday, hoping to sway councillors to approve the multi-unit commercial plans for the Walker Press building. Parking concerns have put those plans on hold. Photo: Michelle Malvaso
By Casandra Turnbull
planning officials. Mayor David Bailey and councillors shared those same concerns on The Walker Press has a very rich history in Paris, Tuesday. but present-day challenges could impact the historical building’s future. “This is a perfect illustration of how preservation Ben Ames, Partner and Chief Investment Officer of old buildings can offer some modern-day at Forge & Foster, presented Brant County challenges. If you drive around 3 Yeo Street, you Council with a delegation on Tuesday, asking will see that the building covers every square inch officials to support plans to turn the vacant of that property, leaving no space for parking for building into a multi-use commercial space. Ames employees or customers visiting,” said Paris and his associates have met some challenges over Councillor Steve Howes. the last 10 months while meeting with County Continued on Page 7
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TRAFFIC & PARKING CONCERNS ON WILLOW HALT PROJECT Continued from Page 6 Forge & Foster had planned on renovating the 150-year-old building into 19 separate units that featured a combination of retail and office space. They predicted it would employ up to 80 people and already had interest from tenants looking to occupy retail space. Ames said during Tuesday’s meeting it was the most interest in leasing they’ve ever experienced in any of their revitalization projects. Forge & Foster prides itself on bringing vitality to cities as a commercial real estate investment management company. What makes them a unique developer is their ability to breath new life into a building, and preserve its significance, rather than tear it down. They pointed to the recent success of the Brantford Cordage Heritage District on Sheridan Street. They successfully converted one of the last remaining historic industrial buildings into a combination of retail, office, flex, and industrial units.
five parking spaces in the rear of the building (by knocking down a small portion of the building). These spaces would be dedicated to employees, additional employees and visitors could utilize a transit shuttle service from downtown municipal parking to the Yeo Street building. Forge & Foster would also add approximately 8 angled parking spaces out front on Willow Street. Councillor Marc Laferriere pointed out that the County just removed some angle parking downtown Paris due to issues it presents, so they are not looking to bring in new angle parking. “How would it look if we approve a plan that requires 156 parking spaces, and you only have 13. How would you explain that to folks?” Laferriere commented. Councillor John Bell also pointed out that Willow Street is already quite busy as it is a main corridor for traffic travelling from the north end of Paris to Brantford. Now, with the residential development at 2 Willow Street, a few hundred additional cars will utilize Willow Street – and once the homes on the golf course are developed, there will be even more congestion. Councillor Howes asked if Ames’ company had considered removing more of the building to shrink the footprint by 30%, which ultimately decreases the number of parking spaces required.
and have to start rebuilding exterior walls. Even if we took down 30% of the building, we would still be short on parking,” said Ames. He went on to comment, “We like buying old buildings and most of those sites have parking issues. But we are always able to work through issues with communities, so that was our game-plan when we purchased this building. Let’s figure out a way to keep it and bring it to its highest potential.” Mayor Bailey said Forge & Foster’s timing couldn’t be any worse. Over the last few council meetings, there were a lot of delegations and discussions around parking issues, many on Willow Street. He said the consensus is residents are fed up. “I don’t know that we can support this at council right now. I hope you can think of a plan B because we don’t want to see the building come down.” Ames told The Paris Independent that his company must go back to the drawing board and is unsure how they will proceed. They will decide in the next week on what Ames referenced that project to do next. “I assume we’re going during his 20-minute delegation, to be selling the building and hoping to gain council support. using it as storage for the time However, councillors voted to being.” receive the presentation as He added “Our current M1 zoning information only and did not allows for most of the uses we support a motion to allow the had envisioned, however, Walker Press project to move considering feedback on parking, forward. There were too many a single tenant or operator with concerns surrounding increased limited parking requirements traffic and parking. would be the only use available Ames presented council with new “If we expand on that demolition on site.” drawings that would allow for we get into more structural issues
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November 20, 2021
In Loving Memory of Jack Bawcutt Sunday, November 11th, 1923 - Monday, November 22nd, 2021
Joyce and Jack Bawcutt together for nearly 80 years
The Bawcutt Centre plaque was unveiled during a ceremony on November 20th, 2017. The event was attended by family, friends and the Centre’s namesake, former Paris mayor Jack Bawcutt and his wife Joyce, pictured front and centre.
During the war an English pilot named Jack Bawcutt, training in Dauphin, Manitoba met a Canadian railway agent, living in nearby Sifton, Willard McPhedrain, “Willard would come to the base and invite airmen to spend the weekend in Sifton,” Bawcutt recalled. After the war ended, Willard had launched Mary Maxim in Paris, Ontario and in 1956 Jack had made up his mind that he would come back to live in Canada. Taking a job at Mary Maxim, the young former Londoner now settled in Paris, sent for his family. A few months later, Joyce arrived with their three children and over time a fourth child would be added. Bawcutt worked hard as office and sales manager at Mary Maxim (then operating out of the Old Town Hall on Burwell Street). In 1965, he won a seat on Paris Town Council.
wanted me to move to Montreal.” He and Joyce were dead-set against that so they set up The Millhouse, a textile company on Spruce Street in Paris. As Bawcutt’s business grew, so did his reputation as a municipal politician. He became mayor of Paris, a position he held until Paris was amalgamated into the County of Brant in 1999. As Mayor, he spearheaded improvements to the library, police department, fire station, arena and the aging water mains. In many ways Bawcutt was ahead of his time. He initiated recycling. He was an early advocate of cloth shopping bags. He understood the need to balance growth with the desire of residents to preserve the town’s rural charm.
Linda Schuyler (Stephen) cocreators of the Degrassi TV series, Tony Bawcutt (Tracy), Barb Graham (Rob), and Michael Bawcutt (Lori). He is the beloved “Papa B” to Max, Erika, Carter, Patrick, Christopher, Garrett, Kyle, Matthew, Heather, and “Great Papa B” to Austin, Hannah, Mason, Madison, Scarlett, and Leighton.
After a short illness, Jack died peacefully at Brantford General Hospital with his wife and four children at his side on November “I left to work for Penmans as 22, 2021. Jack is survived by the merchandising manager,” he love of his life, his wife Joyce recounted. “After a year, they Bawcutt, and his four children:
Donations are gratefully accepted to Paris Presbyterian Church and would be appreciated. Online condolences and donations may be arranged through www.wmkippfuneralhome.com WM. Kipp 519 442 3061.
Friends were asked to call at the Wm. Kipp Funeral Home, 184 Grand River St. N. Paris on Thursday November 25th, 2021 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM. The Funeral Services were held at the Paris Presbyterian Church, 164 Grand River St. N. Paris on Friday November 26th, 2021 at 2:00 PM. Interment was at Paris Cemetery.
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November 27, 2021
SPORTS MINOR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION DEBUTS NEW WOLFPACK LOGO By Casandra Turnbull In nature you must evolve – and the Paris Wolfpack are doing just that with the unveiling of their new logo. The minor hockey association updated its branding for the first time in over 20 years. It replaces the logo created by a designer named Dominic Nardone from GFS Consulting & Marketing, circa 1998. The history of the Wolfpack name dates back some 30 years or more. Legend has it that a juvenile team in the mid 1980s called themselves the Wolfpack, named fondly after their general manager, Mr. Wolf. Past President Mel Osborne and popular coach, the late Gord Simons, helped develop the brand. Gord owned GFS Consulting & Marketing and that’s how the logo came about. “It was time for a change, but there’s no way we wanted to forget our past,” said Mike Sinclair, Paris Minor Hockey Association (PMHA) president. The new logo was created by Tim Andrews, a PMHA executive member and creative professional with over 20 years of experience in advertising and marketing.
Andrews’ talents landed him several national and international brands, but you may recognize some of his work locally at Juniper Dining Co., The Wincey Mills, Emblem and The Arlington Hotel, amongst others. Currently, he is the Vice President of Brand Experience at a financial company in Toronto. So, approaching Andrews to create the new logo was a no-brainer, said Sinclair, who also admitted he was blown away by the sleek design. The rest of the PMHA executive unanimously supported the redesign as well. “We agreed that the objective of the concept should be a design evolution to support the existing brand, assist with transition costs and represent the PMHA of today and tomorrow,” explained Andrews. The executive wanted to use the bare bones of the original logo to prevent the extra costs associated with replacing the logo in numerous locations around the Brant Sports Complex. It’s easy to update a website and social media, but when you start looking around at logos on players’ benches, the boards, the ice, and the signs, it can become quite costly, said Sinclair. Continued on Page 10
The Paris Minor Hockey Association’s new logo was created by local resident Tim Andrews. This is the first time the association has changed its branding in over twenty years. Photo and Video courtesy of Tim Andrews
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November 27, 2021
BRAND NEW PARIS WOLFPACK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE Continued from Page 9 So, how did Andrew incorporate the new with the old? Like all projects, it began with a little research. He reviewed logos from NHL teams and other minor hockey teams to see what works across all mediums and what approaches could be referenced for the Wolfpack. Then he studied and deconstructed the existing logo into its key elements including the wordmark, wolf illustration and the inverted triangle background. “During the conceptual phase, I sketched a number of variations on overlays until I arrived at a balanced composition with a cool new look,” explained Andrews. “The wolf in the old logo looks pretty vicious and I wanted to change the tone to a more confident and strong sentiment that the players can feel empowered wearing.” Once he developed the direction, he had to design an eye pleasing, geometrically balanced composition, before he could rebuild it digitally. While redesigning he had to keep in mind that the new logo must work on a small and large scale, on light and dark backgrounds, on digital applications like videos and websites, but also on embroidered jerseys. That’s how he arrived at a concept that had
clean lines and a simple composition. He tested several mock-ups to ensure it worked universally. Sinclair and the PMHA executive unveiled the logo last weekend. They also opened an online store so players and families can buy new PMHA swag sporting the new brand. The organization plans to sell merchandise (copyrighted by the PMHA) this season and to hopefully roll out new jerseys next year. The minor hockey website was also revamped last weekend to align with the new branding. “The organization is doing excellent work, developing exciting and involved players, supporting development, and putting on fantastic events – they need a brand that truly speaks to these efforts,” concluded Andrews. “One thing I always had in mind was getting the players excited and proud to wear the Wolfpack logo.” The merchandise, such as masks, t-shirts and sweaters is currently on sale through the online store: PMHA Wolfpack Merch (company.site). Supplies for the launch are limited so get your orders in before they are sold out! The first batch of orders is expected to arrive before Christmas.
FIGURE SKATING CLUB RECOGNIZES AWARD WINNERS The Paris Figure Skating Club handed out its awards for 2020-2021 season on Wednesday evening. Recipients of the achievement awards are Canskate: 1. Mackinley Graham 2. Charlotte Black 3. Clara Bartscher; Junior: 1. Ava DeSousa 2. Natalie McGregor 3. Olivia Wilmot; Intermediate: 1. Isabella Smith 2. Lindsey Andrews and Emma Reynolds 3. Ella Knill, Maya Darnbrough and Taylor Quelch; Senior: 1. Lauren Tiller and Trillium Gazdewich 2. Addison Spencer and Avery Furtado 3. Abby Beck; Gold Test Achievements: Lauren Tiller – Skills and Dance; Abby Beck – Skills; Volunteer Award: Lisa Campbell More Photos on page 11
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November 27, 2021 All photos courtesy of The Paris Figure Skating Club
U7 TEAM FACES OFF AGAINST BURFORD IN FIRST EXHIBITION GAME OF THE YEAR Far left, Jace Allgood had a tremendous debut in net. Left, Luci Corbett skates in for her first goal of the season. Photos: Casandra Turnbull
The U7 Red Team travelled to Burford for its first exhibition game last Saturday. For many young players, this was their first real game of hockey as the 2020 season focussed on practices, scrimmages and developing fundamental skills.
Layton Howells found the back of the net three times for his first hat trick of the year. Also collecting their first goals of the season were Austin Meza, Blake Hodgkinson, Luci Corbett, Emerson Kneale and Parker Sevigny.
Some players were reportedly nervous, although you couldn’t tell because the Wolfpack went home with a win, although there was no ‘official’ score. Jace Allgood donned the equipment for his first time between the pipes. He fended off some excellent shots and was supported by some excellent defensive moves and team play from Levi Blake, Jack Ferren, Connor Hoytema, Emerson Kneale, Oliver Korslick, Ben Turnbull and Cohen Wallis.
The coaching staff was proud to see that all the hard work put in at practice was evident on game day. All players demonstrated excellent sportsmanship by keeping a positive attitude and supporting one another with high fives. Paris faces Burford again on home ice next Saturday, December 4 at 10 a.m.
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November 27, 2021
N AT I O N A L N E W S FORMER PARIS RESIDENT TRAPPED DURING BC FLOODS
By Casandra Turnbull Former Paris Star editor/publisher and longtime resident Andrea DeMeer is experiencing first-hand the devastation resulting from catastrophic floods in British Columbia. Living in the small town of Princeton, in the Similkameen region of southern BC, DeMeer and her family were evacuated by boat last week when the Tulameen River burst its banks on November 14, 2021. DeMeer lost three vehicles, which were completely submerged, as well as some belongings. The street in front of her home turned into a river rather quickly. DeMeer described the sudden change of events like a tsunami. She was outside taking pictures of volunteers laying sandbags when the river breached the temporary flood protection measures. Luckily enough, the DeMeers live on the second story of a home, so not everything was lost. Unfortunately, that is not the case for so many residents in that close-knit community.
Above, Andrea DeMeer is rescued by boat; below a picture of her vehicles completely submerged. Photos & Video by Andrea DeMeer / Black Press
“To be blunt, the need here is great,” said DeMeer. “While our own family is okay to carry through, there are many who are not. We are a small and fairly isolated community. Some people live paycheque to paycheque, and others regularly rely on our food bank and other assistance. So many of these neighbours have been displaced,” she added. Princeton is still without drinking water, many homes are without heat, the only grocery store in town has empty shelves and there is an ever-present threat of an infrastructure collapse, she wrote via social media to update her friends and family still residing in Brant County. Most of the county is under evacuation order or on an evac alert. Continued on Page 13
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“To be blunt, the need here is great,” said DeMeer. “Some people live paycheque to paycheque, and others regularly rely on our food bank and other assistance. So many of these neighbours have been displaced.” Continued from Page 12 DeMeer, who lived in Paris for nearly 30 years, was also editor and later publisher of the Paris Star from 1989 to 2009. She moved to BC in 2014 and now publishes the Black Press newspaper The Similkameen Spotlight. In her online post, DeMeer urged people to donate money if they can. The Town of Princeton has teamed up with the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen to create the Princeton Flood Relief Fund. Monetary donations will flow through the Town of Princeton enabling them to provide emergency relief for citizens impacted by the flood. You can learn more about this fund, and donate, by visiting www.cfso.net. Parts of southern BC continue to deal with the aftermath of floods, mudslides and rockslides following a month’s worth of heavy rains that fell over the course of two days. Many highways and vital corridors in the province’s lower mainland are closed. Experts predict it could take weeks, months and even years to recover from the damage. To make matters more grim, upcoming weather patterns for this hard hit area point to more flooding in the Tulameen River. On Wednesday, the Canadian Armed Forces arrived with a platoon of soldiers to help fill sandbags.
Above: Flood waters in Princeton caused the evacuation of many residents in town. The water breached the dikes like a Tsunami. Below, the Canadian Armed Forces sent a platoon of soldiers to help fill sandbags ahead of more precipitation. Photos Courtesy of Andrea DeMeer / Black Press
DO YOU WANT TO HELP DISPLACED RESIDENTS? Learn more about the dire situation in Princeton, BC by viewing Black Press articles: Flood relief fund established for Princeton – Princeton Similkameen Spotlight and contribute online at www.cfso.net.
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The Paris Independent
November 20, 2021
PARIS LOVES A PARADE
Paris Past By Chris Whelan For as far back as I can research Paris has always been up for having a parade. From Military parades to Labour Day parades, from Coronations to celebrating Canada’s Independence, Paris has a long history of hosting parades! We even have photos of our town’s people parading to the park just for a picnic! Celebrations along the downtown main streets has been a tradition that has continued right up until our present day. Among the many parades celebrated in our little town, my favourite has always been at Christmas. Former Reeve and Business owner Gord Gibson used to tell me stories of when he was young and Paris would
have the Santa Claus parade downtown and afterwards all the children of Paris would gather at the Capital movie theatre and receive a bag of goodies from Santa and watch cartoons for the rest of the afternoon courtesy of the Penmans Textile Company. Gord would tell me how much he would enjoy a bag of hot roasted peanuts at the theatre for only a nickel or how the black balls from the palms would turn your whole mouth and tongue black!
75 years ago The Penmans clowns as they were known were always a fun part of every parade in downtown Paris.
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November 20, 2021
The Paris Capitol Theatre Once Anchored Downtown where the Royal Condominiums are Today Paris Capitol Theatre The Capitol was opened in 1917 by the Alan Brothers from Brantford and was originally called the Colonial. It was later sold to Famous Players and renamed the Capitol. It was permanently closed sometime after 1957.
Until the coming of television the New Capitol Theatre was regularly patronized by large numbers of Parisians.
This photo was taken shortly after manager Joseph Bolinsky had the theatre refurbished with comfortable seats, an attractive new stage curtain and newly painted walls and ceiling. A new sound system had been installed so the Capitol could welcome movie goers to the very first ever “Talkie” on July 22, 1930 The film for the gala event was “The Social Lion” with Jack Oakie. The admission was 35 cents for an adult.
Inside the lobby of the Capitol Theatre in 1954 Kay Mackenzie is waiting for patrons from behind the popcorn/candy counter Two executives from "Famous Players" head office are visiting.
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November 27, 2021
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS LONG-TIME VOLUNTEER REMEMBERED It is with heavy hearts that this year the Paris Community Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive Committee members remember the efforts of Debbie Flewelling who was an integral part of the committee. For over 30 years Debbie gave countless hours to the committee. She ensured that children received gifts on their wish lists, that everyone had an extra hat or pair of mitts and she was the first person to offer a word of support or hug when needed. Debbie would drop off posters annually to the many merchants in town that support collection efforts, pick up toys and food from drop off locations, and spend countless hours with local school kids helping them sort the food they had collected for the community. To say that she will be missed is an understatement. The Christmas Hamper committee is asking that if you are donating this year, you take a moment to think of Debbie and how the effort of one can help so many. Photo courtesy of the Paris Community Christmas Hampers Committee
OPTIMIST CLUB DONATES
The President of the Paris Optimist Club, Julie Henwood (left) presented a cheque to Paris Community Christmas Hampers Chair, Shirley Simons and Cherish Elwell (committee member) to assist with the purchase of items for the Hampers Program. Photo submitted by Paris Optimist Club
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November 27, 2021
COMMUNITY NEWS CHRISTMAS BLOCK PARTY OFFERS PONY RIDES, FOOD TRUCKS AND ROASTED MARSHMALLOWS! By Carolina Saenz Holiday season is in full swing. From beautiful decorations to busy shoppers and holiday gettogethers, Paris is buzzing with excitement. And with it, the opportunity to gather with those we love is presented. With a variety of community events available, Parisians have lots of options to choose from. Be sure to add December 5th to your list of festive activities and head over to Sojourn Church for a Christmas Block Party. Organized by the church and its members, the Christmas Block Party promises to be a fun-filled event for the whole family to enjoy. With no admission fees and easily accessible parking across the street, the Christmas Block Party is open for anyone to attend. Not being able to host a Christmas community building event like this last year due to Covid, Pastor Darryl Bergen said he is very excited. “The purpose is for us to gather. For us to build relationships, to get outside and be with one another. And to kick off the Christmas season”, Bergen explains. He is new to Paris as well, so he looks forward to some festive cheer with neighbours.
“This event is to bless the community of Paris. Our vision as a church is to enrich Paris and the surrounding community by daily living out the love of Christ, and we see this as a tangible expression of the church loving our community and creating a space for people to share that love with each other, to find community and welcome with friends, neighbours, and people they don’t even know,” he added. The event will feature a couple of food trucks, including Funnel Cake Dream and Jashan-e-Dawat (authentic Indian cuisine). Attendees can sip on hot chocolate and apple cider and keep warm by the fire pit. Don’t forget to roast some marshmallows and spread some holiday cheer. And to top it off? Free pony rides provided by 3 Nails Ranch and Trails. While the Christmas Block Party is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate with friends, neighbours, and meet new people, organizers want people to please remember that outdoor Covid protocols will be followed to ensure everyone’s safety. For more information, and to sign the required waiver to participate in the pony rides, visit Christmas Block party — Sojourn Church Paris (wearesojourn.church) or email darryl@wearesojourn.church
Register your kids for one of the County of Brant Public Library’s upcoming holiday programs: New Kids Create Kits to take home, New Teen DIY ornament balls, family holiday story time, a Season’s Readings Reading Challenge, Kids’ Holiday Trivia and more! Pick up a flyer from your local branch! Registration for holiday-themed programs and events begins Wednesday, December 1 at 10 a.m. online (at brantlibrary.ca/calendar) or call/visit your local branch to sign up with staff.
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November 27, 2021
TRAVEL SOAKING UP THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE IN AJIJIC MEXICO
Mountains surround Ajiic, Mexico (left) and local school teacher Lorena, who provides Spanish lessons.
This has been another week of beautiful weather. Once rainy season ends here, it is literally one sunny day after another: the perfect climate, 21-24 C daytime and 9-11 C night time. I’ve been venturing out more on my own lately. I enjoy walking and missed being centrally located, within walking distance to the town square and the Malecon (pier), but I certainly appreciate the quiet and pool at the beautiful accommodation where I’m staying. My friend, who I’m staying with, lives in a suburb of Ajijic called San Antonio. It is still in town, but down a cobblestone street with no homes on it. There
is a school located on one side and horses and cows graze and wander down the grassy side, occasionally blocking traffic. As I wanted to enjoy the real Mexican experience, I swallowed any apprehension and ventured out. The walk was very pleasant, and the livestock kept me company! I discovered there are houses on the way, but they are secreted behind towering walls and gates. I was treated to a “hola senora” from a few adorable children one day, at a gate. Once you reach the main road it’s a very pleasant walk. The distance to the Walmart and bank machine is about 1.2 km, so there and back is about a mile. I’ve done this
walk every day, using these landmarks to judge the distance. Wednesday, I wanted to venture farther to attend the weekly outdoor market, so I chose public transportation, the bus. Roy and I did this once while he was here, so it wasn’t a totally new experience. I thought you had to tell the driver where you are getting off, but after some back and forth it really boiled down to holding out a handful of change and letting him choose. Well…I think I’m finally considered Mexican!
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November 27, 2021
“LIFE HERE IS VERY SIMILAR TO HOME” Multiple bus rides had convinced me bus fare is 10 pesos. In watching people pay, I did notice that most Mexicans didn’t say where they were getting off, handed over the 10 pesos and then got change back. Last bus ride I got on, passed my 10 pesos over, the driver gave me a real “side-eye” look and handed over 3 pesos change. In fairness to his judgment skills, I tan very well and have spent most of each day outside. Also, I was carrying a Walmart bag full of groceries and there weren’t any other “gringos” on the bus. I nearly laughed out loud; that made my day!
Spanish) during our lesson. In the last 2 weeks, we have learned how the vowels sound and many different nouns (masculine & feminine, singular & plural). We will miss next week as we are heading out on a mini vacation to Guayabitos on the Pacific coast, just above Puerto Vallarta. There has been some disturbing news from Mexico, out of the Cancun area this week. I can assure you that is nowhere near Ajijic and where I am staying. While I know there can be crime anywhere, staying in a small town like Paris in population makes me feel more secure. Life here is very similar to home. I did something as mundane as get my nails done yesterday and it all felt very normal.
Covid restrictions have certainly changed the market’s size from the one I attended 2 years ago. It is only about one third the size it was the last time. There are still lovely, handcrafted items, food and clothing available. The smells walking through are enticing, I think anything cooked outside with garlic and onions smells delicious, but I’m not sure about my personal As I said, we are heading over to the coast on constitution, so I took a pass. Monday (farther away from Cancun) for a little
trip. The temperature there is much warmer than Getting the bus back was more of a challenge as here: 31+C. I can’t wait to see the beach! the sidewalk for most of the route is in a lower, walled off area along the road. Short of climbing the wall or walking on the busy road, I couldn’t Photos & article submitted by local resident Karon see how to catch it. By the time I realized you Sinning, as she adventures through Mexico caught it on the side streets at the round-a-bouts, it was only an 8 minute walk to Walmart and it hardly seemed worth it. I chose instead to stop at a wonderful little cafe for a break, Cafe Negro. (Negro is the Spanish word for black.) This is a lunch and breakfast place and I just squeaked in before closing.
I also attended another of Emmanuel’s wonderful cooking classes. Recipes included Chicken Barbacoa and Chicken Rolls in a Dijon honey cream sauce. Delicious! Wednesdays we have been attending Spanish lessons with Lorena. Lorena is a school teacher here and offers lessons to her English friends. I thought getting somewhat of a basic understanding would be fun. And it is! Along with the vocabulary, we enjoy a glass of vino, (see
The Paris Independent
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November 27, 2021
H E A LT H Y L I F E S T Y L E HEALTH HUB READY TO OPEN ITS DOORS
On Monday, November 29, 2021, the Cowan Community Health Hub will officially open its doors to the public. The 41,365 square foot facility will be home to the following agencies/groups: The Alzheimer’s Society, Brant Community Services, Brant Family and Children’s Services, Brantford Radiology, Cobblestone Medicine and Rehab Centre, Community Hub Pharmacy, Grand River Community Health Centre, Life Labs, Nova Vita, Paris Denture Clinic, Paris Heart Clinic, Participation Sport Services, Primacare Community / Family Health Team, and South Choice Hearing Health Services. The fundraising campaign is almost 90% complete thanks to the generous donors! For services at the Health Hub and to donate, visit brant.ca/HealthHub.
The Paris Independent
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November 27, 2021
DON’T DREAD THE HOLIDAY TREATS: PLAN AHEAD AND ENJOY THE SEASON! Just for the Health of It! with Coach Shell
The Christmas season is upon us and with that comes parties, dinners out, office potlucks, cookie exchanges and Grandma's stuffing! So how do you keep from gaining the dreaded holiday 10 pounds this season? REALIZE: First off, realize that although you feel like there is a get-together every other day in the month of December, that if you are eating 21 meals in a week, then most likely there are only going to be 2-3 out of the 21 that will be more plentiful! So, if you are in control and eating a well-balanced home cooked meal at least 18 times a week, then it won't seem so out of your control and you don't have to have a 'free for all' December eating plan just because of a few events. PLAN: Secondly, plan for your feasts. If you know that you are going to a friend’s house with the girls for a Christmas social, then eat lighter throughout the day to allow for the extra wine and charcuterie yumminess that you will be indulging in later.
Try not to skip meals as you don't want to go there hungry, but instead eat high protein/veggie meals that will keep you satiated but give you a little wiggle room for your night. RELAX: Thirdly, relax. Do not stress about going to the event and do not stress about your eating and drinking when you are at the event. Stress keeps weight on and interferes with digestion. So you inadvertently could make yourself unwell and may not enjoy the festivities. The worstcase scenario is that you went on a crazy binge despite your best planning, and you are up a couple of pounds on the scale the next day. If you go back on your plan you may notice it will all come
off in a few days.
Coach Shell is the proud owner of Gaudet Fitness Solutions (aka GFS). She runs a fitness studio out of her renovated garage on Misener Road W in Paris. She offers classes in person and online, video recordings of classes daily, and has coached hundreds of women to better health and wellness with her BLean Nutrition program. She also runs 3-4 large weight loss challenges each year. Shell is dedicated to helping women realize that taking time for themselves to exercise and eat well is not selfish but rather selflove!
The Paris Independent
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November 27, 2021
HOPE FOR HEALTHCARE CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY
(L to R) Garnet Lasby, President, Massilly North America, Karen Engelhart, Executive Assistant, Kristy Maslen and Amber Dunphy, Account Coordinators with Massilly North America are proud supporters of the Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation’s Hope for Healthcare campaign Photos Submitted by The Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation
“We are incredibly appreciative of our donors and for donations of all denominations that help us continue to invest together to re-imagine health care in our community. It is so heart-warming to see how donor dollars directly improve patient experiences at the BCHS,” said Kari Wilson, Executive Director of the BCHS Foundation. As donations continue to come in over the course Residents will begin to receive pamphlets/letters in of the next six weeks, the Willett and BGH will the mail asking for donations. light up in blue, both in support of healthcare workers and to showcase the generosity of Continued on Page 22 community donors. MEDIA RELEASE: The Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation’s Hope for Healthcare Campaign is underway this holiday season and your monetary donation will go back into services or equipment required at the Willett and Brantford General Hospital.
The Paris Independent
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November 27, 2021
“We certainly have a new appreciation for our healthcare workers, physicians and support staff that have been working diligently to provide safe and effective patient care throughout the pandemic.” 21 “We are so grateful to Massilly North America for their generous donation to benefit health care in You can specify how you want our community, especially your donation allocated: to The during this uncertain time as we Willett for radiology equipment, all continue to manage a fourth to the BGH for a CT scanner or pandemic wave,” said Heather to the redevelopment of the Wilson, Chair of the BCHS BGH Emergency Department. Foundation Board of Directors. The multi-million-dollar “We certainly have a new redevelopment, expansion and appreciation for our health care renovation of the emergency workers, physicians and support room is financially supported in staff that have been working part by the provincial diligently to provide safe and government. The Brant effective patient care throughout pandemic.” Community Healthcare System the must come up with Garnet Lasby, President of North America, approximately $8 million to Massilly cover renovation expenses, as commented, “With the success well as new medical equipment we saw last year, our company is that may be required for patient excited to partner as a matching care in the new space. donor again this year for the The 2021 campaign follows a 2021 Hope for Healthcare very successful fundraiser in campaign with a second $75,000 2020 where the appeal raised donation. It is our hope to over $275,000 to benefit encourage other local businesses healthcare in the community. and community members to give This amazing success was due in what they can knowing that part to a $75,000 matching every dollar will be matched up $75,000.” donation from Massilly North to America, according to a press The BCHS Foundation is release issued by the Brant committed to raising critical Community Healthcare System funds to support the top priority Foundation. The Brantford- needs for The Brantford General based Massilly North America is and the Willett, Paris. Your a global manufacturer of metal meaningful support of the helps purchase twist-off closures for food jars Foundation servicing the food packaging medical equipment that is not covered by the Ministry of industry. Continued
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Health funding model, provide essential resources to maintain the exceptional level of compassionate patient care, and invest in new and innovative technology. The BCHS is excited to be moving forward with the next stage of planning in the emergency department redevelopment project, preparing tender documents for the new build. The redevelopment will include enhancements such as new entrances, a new waiting area, extended stay zone and an Indigenous Healing Suite. These renovations will help improve and ensure patient safety and privacy. The 2021 Hope for Healthcare campaign will run during November and December. Look for your letter to arrive at your home and watch both the Brantford General and The Willett, Paris be illuminated in blue light.
If you are interested in learning more about the BCHS Foundation and the Emergency Department redevelopment visit www.bchsysfoundation.org.
The Paris Independent
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November 27, 2021
Showtimes for Galaxy Cinemas Brantford Saturday November 27th, 2021 Ghostbusters: Afterlife Standard 12:20p.m. 3:40p.m. 7:00p.m. 10:00p.m. Encanto Standard 11:00a.m. 1:45p.m. 4:30p.m. 3D 7:20p.m. 10:10p.m. House of Gucci Standard 11:00a.m. 3:20p.m. 6:50p.m. 10:20p.m. Eternals Standard 11:50a.m. 2:20p.m. 6:10p.m. 9:40p.m. Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City Standard 11:15a.m. 2:00p.m. 4:50p.m. 7:40p.m. 10:30p.m. Dune Standard 6:00p.m. 9:30p.m. King Richard Standard 11:20a.m. 2:50p.m. 6:20p.m. 9:50p.m. Clifford the Big Red Dog Standard 12:55p.m. 2:30p.m. 5:00p.m. 7:30p.m. Venom: Let There Be Carnage Standard 10:00p.m. Ron's Gone Wrong Standard 11:40a.m. 3:20p.m.