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2 November 2015

Before I moved intoBrantford, I grew up in asmall town. Everyone kneweach other, everyone helpedone another through greattimes and in struggles. Thecommunity was tight knit, asmany would say.

I recalled this memory whileI was watching everyonegather for “Christmas in St.George” this weekend. Atown of around 3,000 peoplerallied behind EvanLeversage, a 7 year old boywho has been battlingterminal brain cancer for fiveyears. When doctors said

they should celebrateChristmas early this year, thefamily prepared, and ascousins brought the story tofacebook, the entire towndecided to rally.

St. George brought theirlights out early and got towork. Before long, the entiretown was decorating for theholiday. The touching storybegan to trend, acrossCanada, the U.S, and thenthe world. Not just becauseof Evan, but because thecommunity came together ina giant way to generouslysupport Evan and his entirefamily. Hundreds of homesand business decoratedearly; Many sporting signsthat said “Merry ChristmasEvan!” and also sporting thegold ribbon symbolizingchildhood cancer.

All of this preparation wouldlead to a celebration andparade going right by Evan'shouse, and throughout thetown, complete with fakesnow, superheroes andcharacters (including Evan'sfavourite, Spongebob), floats,and, of course, Santa.

Over 7,000 people came outfrom around Brant,Brantford, Hamilton andbeyond. Just before theparade start, the police carscame to bring Evan up to hishome, complete with lightsflashing and sirens going.Everyone was shouting“Merry Christmas Evan!” Themotorcade slowed down togive Evan a chance to waveand everyone to greet himwith Christmas cheer. I wasmoved, not just by the factthat it may be Evan's lastChristmas, but by howloving, caring and genuineeveryone was in giving thisyoung boy a sendoff ofdreams.

To be truthful, I wasovercome by emotion atleast three times during thisparade. Seeing the childrencoming out, (one little girlmade me laugh – as thesuperheroes went by,Batman being one of them,wishing everyone a MerryChristmas, this little girlshouted back “And a HappyHalloween!”) seeing the loveand positive energy from theentire crowd, and seeing the

great effort that came fromthis community andsurrounding communities, itbecame clear to me. This iswhat small towns are about.You don't get this in largecities, and sometimes,people from the city “don'tget it.” The emotion, thecomradery, the unity of thecommunity. St. Georgeembodies what every smalltown rallying for their ownaspires to be. It was a trulyremarkable experience beingpart of the crowd.

We captured a glimpse intothese moments, and you cansee them as part of our “HeShot, She Shot” section onpages 22, and 23. If youwould like to help out withChristmas for Evan, you cansupport their fundraisingefforts by visitinggofundme.com/7w6kqyxw.

As the days pass into weeks,I sometimes find it hard toremember what happened ata meeting or what I neededto do this week. As humans,it's sometimes easy to forget.We go about our daily lives

thinking about all the normaltasks we have to do that dayand then do it all over againtomorrow.

Every so often we need totake time off. To rest ordivert us from our dailyroutines. It's only natural forus to take some time andrecharge. To recall what hashappened and to think aboutwhat we have to do when weget back.

Each year, on November the11th, we do just that. We taketime out from our daily livesand routines. We pause, stepback, and recall ourmemories. We think aboutwhat has happened in ourpast and we remember theloved ones who aren't here

with us anymore.

After 100 years, it's moreimportant than ever to take abreak and look back. Evenafter so many years, it's stillimportant to pass on thememories. It may be difficultor hard to discuss, but westill need to think back andkeep the memories alive andto honour those that passed.

It can be tough for many ofus to relate. Those hardships happened decades beforewe were born. But it is stillimportant for us toremember the impact thatthose events have on us andour futures.

Remembrance Day isn't justabout looking back either.

It's a chance to take a look atthe conflicts that arehappening now. We need totake that step back andremember that there arepeople who are currentlyfighting to protect us, andothers. It also allows us tobring these memories intothe future to remind us totry to avoid these types ofconflicts. It reminds to try toseek a peaceful resolution sothat lives don't have to belost.

As we come together thismonth, let us take that timeaway from our daily lives. Letus pause, remember, andhonour. And let us hope thattogether we can worktoward the future.

RememberingNovember 2015 ­ Volume 2, Edition 2

BScene is a free monthlypublication showcasing the greatpeople, events, and ideas ofBrantford, Brant and Six Nations.

BScene is distributed free to youthrough key community partnersincluding local advertisers, retailoutlets, dining establishments, andselected community centres.

Views expressed by contributorsare not necessarily held by thestaff, editor, publisher or ownershipof BScene.

The BScene TeamPublisher & Social MediaJason Freeze (jason@bscene.ca)

Editor & Creative DirectorRichard Robillard(richard@bscene.ca)

Brand AmbassadorJoshua Wall (joshua@bscene.ca)

Chief PhotographerPatrick McEachern(patrick@bscene.ca)

Lead ReporterYvonne Van De Wiele­Cooper(yvonne@bscene.ca)

ContributorsDave CarrolDana Christine DotchinShannon HugmanJack Jackowetz

Photographer / LOLLuvern Mornin (luvern@bscene.ca)

PhotographersIda AdamowiczDean Ellis

Event Guide Coordinator /Graphics DesignEdith Freeze (events@bscene.ca)

For advertising inquiries contactadvertising@bscene.ca

Submissions of articles contactsubmissions@bscene.ca

For listing in the event guide:events@bscene.ca

A member of the Brantford­BrantChamber of Commerce

Small Child, Small Town, Giant Hearts

3November 2015

Kindness in Catching: Pay it Forward

A day to be kind? Shouldn’twe be kind every day? Youknow that the answer to thatis a resounding YES. So whatis Random Act of KindnessDay about?

Random Act of Kindness Dayis a day to celebrate kindnessand encourage people to takethe time to recognize it. We

are often so busy andwrapped up in our ownproblems that we don’t seethe wonderful people aroundus. Has anyone ever helpedyou with parcels that youwere struggling with andopened the door for you toease your way? Did aneighbor continue to shovelhis sidewalk all the way pastyour house? Did a completestranger let you in thegrocery store line up aheadof her or pay the $2.34 thatyou were short? All of thesethings are acts of kindness

and they happen every day.Random Act of Kindness Dayis the day that we rememberand applaud the kindnessthat occurs in ourcommunity every day. OnNovember 6, our KindnessCrews will fan out acrossBrantford, Brant County, SixNations of the Grand Riverand Mississaugas of the NewCredit and “pay it forward”.

Research has shown thatwhen we’re kind, we inspireothers to be kind. By beingkind, we can create a culture

of kindness. It is truly awin/win situation. Ourkindness has a ripple effectthat benefits others and wefeel good for helpingsomeone. Not sure aboutthat? Test it out. Don’t waitfor Random Act of KindnessDay to do something nice.You can send an email tosomeone to congratulatethem on a recent success.Help an elderly person at thegrocery store with theirparcels. Share some of yourperennial plants or plantclippings with a friend orneighbour. There are somany things that we can doand it doesn’t have to costanything. The pay off – thatsmile on the face of theperson you reached out to.Sometimes it is your smileand a friendly hello thattouches a lonely stranger.

We’d like to hear about theripple effect of kindness andask that you share yourstories with us on twitter@brantfordRAKday#RAK365. We chose the#RAK365 to stress thatRandom Act of Kindness Dayis to encourage kindness allyear round, not just one daya year.

Please join us on RandomAct of Kindness Day tospread kindness. To getinvolved, contact the BrantCommunity Foundation at519-756-2499 orinfo@brantcommunityfoundation.ca to get some RandomAct of Kindness Day cards orto join a team so that youbecome part of the cycle ofkindness.

The Random Act of Kindness day is Friday, November 6.

As your Town Crier, I wouldlike to thank everyone inthe City of Brantford forsending me to the CentralOtago World Town CrierTournament in NewZealand. Your faith in myability to promoteBrantford resulted in myreceiving the prestigiousAmbassador Award. In thecompetition, I placed fifth,tied with my brother Billwho represents Oshawa,Skugog and Uxbridge.

Special thanks go toJennifer Middleton ofBrantford Parks andRecreation and SaraMunroe and HeatherMcEwen of Tourism

Brantford. Prints of the BellHomestead provided byartist, Jon Bonfield and abackpack and jersey fromthe Brantford Galaxie wereperfect gifts. It was anhonor to present TonyLepper, Mayor of CentralOtago with a gift fromMayor Chris Friel. I almostran out of brochures, pins,bookmarks and otherhandouts supplied byDonna Clements of ToursimBrantford and Canada pinsfrom M. P. Phil McColeman.

It was corporate, non-profitand individual sponsorsthat made the trip possible,ably assisted by Media.Coun. Dave Neumannkicked off the fund-raising.Corporate Sponsors wereBYO Breweries, PersonalService Coffee, RoyalLePage Brant Realty, SteerDavies Gleaves, LevacsTrophies, Laurier Brantford,Strodes, Prima Clean,Millards, Williamson Group,Advantage Auto and the

Golden Gate Tea Room.Not-for-profit sponsorswere the Chamber ofCommerce Brantford-Brant, BrantfordInternational Jazz Festival,Crossing All Bridges,Brantford Parks andRecreation Dress DownDays, the Arnold AndersonSports Fund and theInternational VillagesFestival. Many individualsponsorships came fromdirect deposits to theevent’s special bankaccount; others fromgenerous folk who gave atevents throughout thesummer; and still otherscame from friends andfamily. Because there wereso many individualsponsors, some known,some unknown, I will justsay, “Thank you!” from thebottom of my heart. Aswell, the City Grant,administered by the BrantCommunity Foundation wasvital.

Brantford’s wonderfulmedia were integral inkeeping the campaign alive:they included (inalphabetical order): BScene,The Brant News, CFWC-FMRadio, Discover BrantfordBlog and The Expositor.Additional thanks go toMichelle Ruby, BrianShypula and Kevin Rolph.

Finally, I am extremelygrateful to Mayor ChrisFriel, M. P. Phil McColemanand M. P. P. Dave Levac fortheir support. Thank youBrantford! And now let’shope that some of thoseNew Zealanders who nowknow why they should visitBrantford, show up!

Town Crier Thanks Brantford for Support

4 November 2015

The biggest “KindnessProject” Project that we have,is one we rarely speak about.It’s not a very “sexy” project,it’s results are not alwaysclear-cut, and it’s a toughone to have a "rah rah" rallyabout it. Freedom House’slow rental housing projectFreedom Gate Apartmentshas taken more time, work,effort and financial faith thananything else Freedom Househas ever done in our nearly13 years. By a LONG SHOT.And what was it all for? 15affordable-living apartmentsfor people to live in. And it'sbeen worth it.

178 Market Street is the spotmany will remember as thehome of The Rainforestrestaurant. It was a blue barwhen we purchased it 13years ago. Still looking like anightclub, this was thesetting for the early years ofFreedom House. I have fondmemories of our humblebeginnings in it. But themore folks we met trapped indestructive cycles of povertyand addiction on that part ofMarket Street, the more werealized that our call to serveour fellow man in practicalways was a real thing. Itextended beyond traditionalthe church walls. In fact inthis case, it meant tearingthem down and putting inbedrooms.

We were reminded of ourneed to intentionally meetphysical needs AS WELL ASthe spiritual needs. The twogo hand in hand. At FreedomHouse we have two rules.Love God and Love People.The rest is gravy. And a bigneed for the people in ourneighborhood was a homethat they could afford and

where they could be safe andstable. We met people whowe were wanting to breakfree of cycles but couldn’tfind a place to live and thecreation of Freedom Gatewould facilitate that desire.So we said yes. After a 1.5million dollar buildingproject, Freedom GateApartments opened in thespring of 2010. While itsometimes seems like a dropin the bucket to say that wehave 15 families using thespace at a time… those are 15real families. It’s been a streetculture-changer in a way thateven a church building wasn’tdoing. That’s because it melta felt-need on that part ofthe street and in our city.And it’s been worth it.

As inglorious as an apartmentcomplex as it can seem... itmatters. I call it ingloriousbecause it really is. Owningan apartment building hascreated a plethora ofdynamics that we didn'texpect, left us as the resolverof issues we never thoughteven existed and has givenour administrator

nightmares. And it's beenworth it.

Even with the grants wereceived and the AMAZINGpartnership/friendship withGK York’s GabrielKirchberger (without whomthe project would have nevereven gotten off the ground),it's a financial load to carry.A big one for a church. Andit’s been worth it. One day,after many years of quietlyoperating this apartment(often living on financial faithto make it work if we'rehonest) it will turn a profittoo. And that money will gotowards funding MOREKindness Project outreacheswhile still accomplishingFreedom Gate’s house goal.

But right now it's work. It’swork that few people knowabout and a project that hasway fewer exciting,motivating stories than aFrosty Fest, CaptainKindness, Living Nativity orFlippin Friday. But as itgrows, we hope to continueto make Freedom GateApartments an exceptionalliving experience.

Freedom House is ordinarypeople who believe thatkindness can transform acity, BY good INTO good.The door is open and we’dlove to have you come by.Follow us on twitter@FHBrantford and learnmore online atfreedomhouse.ca

Freedom Gate Apartments

5November 2015

Visitors to the Brant CountyWar memorial may not beaware that the strikingbronze statues of militarypersonnel displayed on it’sfront, are modelled after realpeople who served Canadain the two great wars. Infact, the backpack on thestatue representing thearmy soldier is replica of thebackpack that belonged toDerek Pite. His name canactually be seen engraved onthe backpack by anyone whosteps around the back of thestatue and takes a good look.That’s because Pite was aconsultant on the projectand a member of the largecommittee that oversaw thelong awaited completion ofthe memorial in 1992. Thesculptor wound uprecreating Pite’s actualbackpack for the monument.Pite, who turns 95 onDecember 19th, enlisted inthe Canadian Army at thetender age of 17 and was

considered a boy soldieruntil he turned 18 a shorttime later in December of1939. That’s when hereceived his first uniformand gear, including abackpack.

The memorial, with theexception of the bronzestatues was first dedicatedin 1933. Through the years,weather and neglect took atoll on structure and in 1987it was decided it should becompleted once and for all. A$370,000 fundraising effortbegan and Winnipegsculptor Helen, GrangerYoung was contracted todesign and sculpt thestatues. They would includethree men representing, TheRoyal Canadian Navy, TheCanadian Army and the

Royal CanadianAirforce , fourfemalesrepresenting anursing sister ofthe RoyalCanadianMedical Corps,The Women’sRoyal CanadianNaval Service ,The CanadianWomen’s Armyand theCanadian AirForce Women’sdivision.

Pite, who alsoplayed a role inthe creation ofBrantford’sexceptional

Canadian Military HeritageMuseum, has many storiesto tell about his time spentduring WWll. He says a boutof pneumonia contracted onthe rifle ranges in the fall of1939 had him laid up untilearly in 1940. That’s when hewas placed on light duty. Itwas then that he spotted anotice on the bulletin board

that his regiment was goingto form an intelligencesection. He wound up joiningthe section which meant hehad to learn to ride amotorcycle that wouldeventually take him rightacross Europe. Theintelligence corps involvedthe study of enemy signalsand training on new rifles,which were just coming in toreplace the ones still in usefrom the First World War.

Pite saw plenty of actionduring the conflict and hasmany medals to show for it.He dodged buzz bombs inThe Battle of Britain. Hereceived a medal from theBritish government for hisservice in that battle andanother for his effort inNormandy where he landedon D-day, June 6th, 1944. AsPite recounts, getting therewas an ordeal in itself. Hisregiment left England aboutfive in the morning and theship broke down on the way.The soldiers then boardedanother ship and weresubsequently separated fromtheir own landing craft. Theyfinally landed on the beachesof Normandy at about 11:30that night. A “Scottish-Canadian” Sergeant Majorordered him to, “Get up theirladdy and build yourself a slittrench,” he said. A slit trenchis a body trench deepenough to lie in, so thebullets will pass over. “TheAmericans refer to this as afox hole,” explained Pite.

There were thousands ofmen holed up in slit trenchesthat night. Was he ever shot?“Well somebody intendedto,” he laughs.

In recounting anotheradventure he tells aboutbeing ordered to ride hismotorbike from Britain toDunkirk, France wherethousands of Allied soldiers“were saved by small boats.”The effort is referred to as

“The Miracle of Dunkirk.” Heand his interpreter, also aBrantford man who spokeFrench, had been billetedalong the way as theytravelled on theirmotorcycles. “We alwaysknocked on a door and got abed” he said. “I’d go into atown and look and see agood house and I’d knock onthe door and I’d be billetedwith them.”

Derek Pite returned to theBrantford area after the warand raised seven childrenwith wife Verna. The couplehas been married 73 years.He remains active as acommittee member forBrantford’s popular “Thank aVet” dinner and is called onfrequently for speakingengagements. Meantime, hesays many people he’s talkedto over the years, includingfolks from out of town,remark on the beauty of TheBrant County War Memorial.

The Story Behind the Brant County War Memorial

6 November 2015

Robin Cooke saysRemembrance Day is a “highholy day” for him. TheNorfolk County man is aretired Canadian soldier,who after spending years asa reservist with the 56thField Regiment in Brantfordand 31 Brigade in London,went to Afghanistan in 2008.There, he served as Captainin the Third Battalion of theRoyal Canadian Battle groupand worked in infantrycommunications as theInformation ManagementOfficer. “Your readers maybe familiar with World WarTwo and Korea movieswhere everyone is over asand table and there aremaps and paper everywhere.It doesn’t happen anymore.Everything is manageddigitally- computerized,” hesaid. It was Cooke’s job toensure all of the informationgot to those who needed it atthe right time, so they couldmake the best decisionspossible.

One of the tasks Cooke wasfondest of while based inKandahar, was acting as the

returning officer for the2008 election, which heproudly points out saw an 86percent voter turnout. Hiswork also took him to otherparts of the country whereCanadian troops werequartered and witnessedfirst- hand the differenceCanada’s presence madethere. “Canada did a lot ofthe heavy lifting for a longtime in Afghanistan” he says.He points out the Canadianmilitary was there for nearly12 years followed by a fewyears of training after that.“I saw personally differencesfrom when I arrived to whenI left. I visited schools andsaw people trying toempower themselves to dobetter,” he said. Cooke saysvillage children would poundtheir hands into their fistswhen they saw Canadiansoldiers, not because theywanted food, but becausethey wanted to be givensomething to write with andpaper so they could go to

school. He explained thereare schools in Afghanistanfunded by non-governmentorganizations and thereseems to be a simple rulethat says you can come toschool if you’ve got a penciland something to write on. “Ireally admired thatmindset from thepopulation,” he said.He also said he sawmore girls beingallowed to go toschool as well as roadsand dams being built.“You know when youhave a dam you canirrigate. When youirrigate you can growthings,” he said.

However, Cooke isoutspoken regardinghis feelings over theway recent militaryveterans have beentreated. “You know it’sthe only job in Canadathat has unlimitedliability. When we left

Canada I think everyoneunderstood, we are not allcoming back and I thinkpeople were good with that,but in the same context weexpect our government totake care of the families andthe veterans and I don’t thinkthe last few years, that hasbeen the case,” he said. Hemade reference to a group ofveterans in British Columbiawho have lost limbs, knownas the Equitas Society whichlaunched a law suit forcompensation against theFederal Government. Thegovernment argued it has nosocial responsibility toveterans. Cooke says thesituation leaves him“speechless.” He also pointsout how servicemenreturning from the SecondWorld War were given lowinterest loans, help with

finding jobs and education,but this is no longer the casetoday.

These days, Cooke spendstime involved in activities atthe Brantford MunicipalAirport. He is also on thecommittee for Brantford’s“Thank a Vet Committee”which stages a luncheon formilitary veterans eachNovember. Despite hisdisappointment at thetreatment of veterans, Cookesays he remains hopeful. Hepoints to a photo of himselfin uniform in a field ofpoppies, holding a photo ofhis Uncle, Lance CorporalJohn Alexander Taylor, whodied in Dieppe in World WarTwo. It’s one he holds dear.“I look forward to a futurewhen we will rememberthem,” says Cooke.

Respecting the Sacrifices Made in AfghanistanRetired Soldier Wants to See Military Retirees Adequately Compensated

The 3rd Annual Handbags for Hospice - Pretty In PinkThe Grand Ballroom at the Best Western Plus Brant Park Inn & ConferenceCentre was buzzing with excitement, laughter, and the occasional scream asladies continued to win prizes while supporting Handbags for Hospice - Prettyin Pink. Nearly 400 beautiful women (and a handful of men) came together insupport of this amazing local cause last night. Surrounded in pink hues,handbags, prizes, and treats everyone had an amazing time.

The event boasted over 200 silent auction items, door prizes, games, a photobooth and of course handbags. The room was surrounded by many goodies andtreats brought in by local shops such as: SWEET Bakery, Petit Gourmet FoodCompany, Personal Service Coffee of Brantford, and Solely Cannoli. The liveauction was a big draw as bidders kept putting their hands up for a chance tobid on their favourite bags. With final bids nearing $1000 each, eventorganizers will surely beat last year’s record.

Event founder and organizer Judy Porter of inspirational hearts was simplyamazed by the response she had this year. Selling out very quickly, she washumbled to have so many people come out to the event. Proceeds fromHandbags for Hospice - Pretty in Pink go toward The Stedman CommunityHospice in support of their programs and services. During their first year, theevent was able to raise $17,000 which was followed by $30,000 the next year.For this year’s event, the organizers are hoping to break their total and wouldlike to thank everyone for their support.

Make sure to Be Seen wearing Pink with your friends at next year’s event!

7November 2015

Weigh Your Scrap and Give Back

An innovative recyclingprogram gives businesses inBrant County a simple andunique way to give back totheir community withoutextra work.

Weigh Your Scrap and GiveBack is an exciting, newinitiative between theOntario Electrical League(Tri-County Chapter),Combined Metal Industries(CMI) and the BrantCommunity HealthcareSystem (BCHS) Foundation.The program helps to raisemuch-needed funds forpatient equipment purchasesat The Brantford General andThe Willett, Paris hospitalsites.

This unique third-partyfundraising initiative cameout of the OEL local chapter,which has been rejuvenatedover the last three years andnow boasts about 25members. It represents locallicensed electricalprofessionals and iscommitted to enhancing thequality of life and improvingelectrical safety andawareness in our community.They have also just launcheda new website atwww.tricountyoel.ca

Mal McEachern of Gilbert-McEachern Electric Ltd., iscurrently the president ofthe local chapter of the OEL– and also sits on the BCHSFoundation Board ofDirectors.

He said the OEL executiveregularly discussesfundraising initiatives tosupport the community, andthis one fits well with theLeague's mission statementof maintaining a strong senseof community where theylive and work, and to helpwhere possible, in theregion.

“The hospital is somethingthat everyone needs at somepoint in your life,” said Mal.

“We’re a caring community,and I’m thrilled that ourmember businesses want tosupport and give back,” hesaid. “But it's got to besimple.”

Weigh Your Scrap and GiveBack allows local businessesto donate between 10% and100% of their scrap metalfrom their work sites.

CMI provides a ‘Weigh andPay’ program that offers apick-up service combinedwith competitive programpricing for all scrap metal,including aluminum, copper,brass, stainless steel, tin,lead, batteries, ballasts,motors, wire and much

more.

“When we went to CMI withthe idea, they werepassionate about it,” said Mal.“They understand theimportance of giving back.”

Kirk Garner, accountmanager with CMI, said thecompany processes thescrap, tracks all theadministration paperworkand issues the cheques forthe proceeds.

“We are proud to be aleading partner,” said Kirk.“Local businesses and theOEL have really worked withus to provide valuedresources to benefit thehospital. It is really inspiringto see how receptive thelocal business communityhas been to the program.”

Weigh Your Scrap and GiveBack is already proving to bea huge success. There arefour main industries onboard with the program,including electrical andmechanical, and room formany more. Kirk said thegoal is to keep growing theprogram by adding morebusinesses – whether they

have a little or a lot of scrapto donate.Launched in April 2015, thecommittee set a goal forWeigh Your Scrap and GiveBack to raise $5,000 for theBCHS Foundation by the endof the year. As of the end ofOctober, more than $6000has already been generatedfrom 30 participatingcompanies and individuals.

“We are so appreciative forthe donations generatedthrough Weigh Your Scrapand Give Back,” says SherriBocchini, President & CEO ofthe BCHS Foundation.“What an incredible exampleof creativity, energy andleadership shown by ourbusiness community tosupport

a strong healthcare system.”

“The healthcare system hasurgent needs for new andreplacement equipment,”said Mal. “To continue givingthe best care to the patient,you've got to upgrade. This isa great partnership with theBCHS Foundation and I’mproud that local businessesare stepping up withmeaningful donations.”

This partnership, and thecontributions from itsparticipants, providesmeaningful support of theBCHS Foundation and helpsto purchase patientequipment not funded by theMinistry of Health and Long-Term Care, provide essentialresources to maintain theexceptional level ofcompassionate patient care,and invest in new andinnovative technology.

“By supporting your localelectrical professional youare helping this great cause,”says Mal. “You can alsodonate any used materialsfrom your project via theelectrical contractor and bea part of supportinghealthcare in yourcommunity.”

For more information onWeigh Your Scrap and GiveBack and how it works, go towww.bchsysfoundation.org/wysagb/ or contact MariaKarambelas at the BCHSFoundation at (519) 751-5510ormaria.karambelas@bchsys.org.

A unique program benefiting local healthcare

8 November 2015

War Horse Warrior Challenge raises over $84K

The War Horse WarriorChallenge hosted by theCanadian Cancer Societyattracted nearly 500participants to the 2ndannual fundraiser. Mostindividuals, groups andspectators who came out tosupport the event came

with a connection to thedisease. It was evident whenyou looked around andnoticed many teamswearing the name ofsomeone on their t-shirts. Itwas also quite difficult totalk to anyone at the eventwho had not been touchedby cancer in one form oranother.

Hilltop Pacers of Ayrparticipated with greatenthusiasm and wonthemselves the title of“Most Enthusiastic Team,”but they weren’t there forjust the mud and fun theywere there for one of theirown. Their honourary teamcaptain, Jen, recentlycompleted treatment andunderwent a cancer related

operation in September andcame out to prove she was afighter and completed thecourse with the entire team.Jen’s comments as she andher team crossed the finishline were, “I proceeded withcaution and skipped someobstacles but I am here toprove to my family andfriends that I am a fighterand this disease won’t getme down.”

The most inspiring teamwas The Sarcoma Squadformed by Christina andteenage daughters Nicoleand Mya in honour ofChristina’s sister and inmemory of her late husbandScott. Scott was a volunteeron the War Horse planningcommittee and longtimeemployee of Event Sponsor,Tigercat Industries. Inspiredby Scott’s commitment tothe event many people fromTigercat formed variousteams and raised acombined total of $13,904.

The top fundraising team byaverage came from a groupof 15 youth ranging from 6-14. Bob’s Mud Runnersraised $5122.00 in memoryof Bob Knox and Bob Janzenof Ayr by hosting a BBQfundraiser in May andasking friends and familyand local businesses fordonations. Taylor Knox, 14,of Bob’s Mud Runners wasnamed the top fundraiserwith a total of $2212.00

raised in memory of hisDad. The event was a hugesuccess as many peoplewent away feelingaccomplished on so manylevels. “This course was epicand one of the morephysically challengingcourses that I have donethis year. Also, hand in handwith that, it was a ton of funand everyone there was sofriendly and upbeat!”-Gordon.

The Canadian Cancer

Society wishes to thankeach and every participant,volunteer, supporter andspectator for their support.The event has raised $84,534.89 to date and theycontinue to receivedonations to the event.

Kiwanis is a worldwideservice organization ofindividuals who want toimprove theircommunities byperforming voluntarycommunity service. TheKiwanis Club of Brantfordwas chartered March 8,1919, and is the third

longest serving Kiwanisclub in Canada. Our clubis involved in a variety ofprojects that involvefundraising, communityservice, and assistingchildren locally andworldwide. We havesomething to interesteveryone.

Our always popularKiwanis Music Festival,The Children’s SafetyVillage, The EliminateProject (eliminatematernal and neonataltetanus), children agedliteracy program “Strong

Start”, The Field of Dreamsat Pauline Johnson HighSchool and so much more.Now is the time tobecome a member. Bepart of the Kiwanis Clubof Brantford and enjoy thecommunity spirit andfellowship.

Our meetings are heldeach Thursday at 12 noonuntil 1:30 p.m. at the BestWestern Brant Park Inn, 19Holiday Drive. Guests areALWAYS welcome! Callthe office at (519) 753-7442or emailKiwanis@bfree.on.ca RSVPtoday!

The Kiwanis Club: An Introduction

Hilltop Pacers. Photo: BlueDog Photography

9November 2015

Left: Dave Levac, MPP ConstituencyOffice representatives present acheque for $2,075 for the annualBrant United Way campaign. (Photoby Jessica Halls)

Right: Twin Flames Design andBrantford Artisans Village present acheque to the Brantford Food Bankfor $716.00 as well as 132 lbs of foodraised at the Fall Craft & Gift Show.

Stedman Community Hospice: Love, Hugs, Support

Thanks to our generous andcaring community, we wereproud to open the doors ofStedman CommunityHospice in 2004 being onlythe 5th residential Hospicein Ontario.

We are here for you from themoment of diagnosis of alife-limiting illness throughto your final days. We servethe City of Brantford andsurrounding areas providingexcellence in end-of-life carewith a professional staff,along with more than 150amazing volunteers.

Since opening our doorsmore than 10 years ago, thescope of our programs andservices has expanded to the

point where we can now carefor everyone regardless ofage, economic status, illnessor religion.

Because of ourunprecedented growth, thetime came when we neededto build a new facility tomeet the needs of ourcommunity. As such, webuilt Stedman CommunityHospice’s new “HankinsonHouse” so we can now offermore love, more hugs andmore support when youneed it the most.

As we all get busy preparingfor the upcoming Holidayseason, we hope you will addStedman CommunityHospice to your giving list.Your gift will help to ensurethat families who will bespending their finalChristmas together at theHospice never receive a billfor the compassionate carethey receive. That’s the bestgift you could give!

We look forward to sharingmore information aboutStedman CommunityHospice in the coming

months. For moreinformation on our programsand services please call us at519.751.7096 ext. 2500 or visitour website www.sjlc.ca, likeus on facebook and follow uson Twitter.

10 November 2015

Welcome back comedy fans.Last month I showed yousixteen movers and shakers,and now I'll give you theirnames and what they're upto. Let's start from the topleft corner and work our wayacross to the right, thendown to the bottom of thepictures shall we? Did youguess which person is not acomedian?

Alex Aucoin: Alex, the youngBrantford man who startedcomedy at The CoffeeStation House over two yearsago, has moved to Oakville topursue his day job. He hasn'tperformed since May, butdoes plan to take the stageagain when he has moretime. He told me he deletedhis FaceBook account andweb-site so if you're lookingfor Alex, we'll just have towait for his next appearance.Stay tuned to my comedycolumn for when he returns.

Clifford Myers: Cliff sent methis quote which I think isperfect LOL “Clifford Myers,world famous for his manyappearances at the BrantfordPolish Hall, is finally gettinghis act together. When he'snot headlining shows orworking on his poorlyproduced podcast, he'sfocusing on a life of healthand wellness. Starting with acommitment to sobriety andhe's going on adiet...tomorrow...probably.Beyond comedy, Clifford ishappy with his wife Lindsay,his pug Hoggle, and fistful ofmemories to take to hisgrave.” www.cliffordmyers.ca

Wally Warwick:

Unfortunately Wally wasn'tavailable to commenthowever, he hosts weeklycomedy shows at Club NV onTuesday nights. To seewho's performing on hisshow, follow 'Comedy CarCrash' on FaceBook. A thirtyyear veteran of comedy willbe headlining on Novemberthird. Special appearance bythe one and only MarkMatthews. Woo hoo!

David Green: David's beenworking on his 'Live OnQueen with David Green'production that takes placein Niagara Falls at TapsBrewery. He's got two moreepisodes to entertain us withthat will finish off seasonone. Next, he's headlining atClub 54 on Friday November20th, and headlining again inBurlington November 21st.Busy man and it's hard tokeep up with his schedule sowhen you see his nameappear in Brantford, be sureto get out and see him.Maybe just visit his websitetoowww.davidgreencomedy.com

Destiny Shackleton: Destinyand Mike Egan manage UpWith Downs Productionswhich books local comedyshows in town. Destinycreated the open miccomedy contest shows atThe Therapy Lounge everyother Saturday. Contestantshave a chance of winning$50! Wanna try comedy for achance to make somemoney? Destiny and Mikeare also very grateful forPhilip and Audrey Pitcher,(who own the Rose &Thistle), who offered themtheir first comedy venue. It'sbeen wildly successful foreveryone involved.November 6th at the Rose &Thistle Kevin Avramheadlines. Woo hoo!

Brenda Lennie: The muchloved and adored Brendateaches improv skills towomen who want toovercome emotional issues,and there's no need forprevious comedy experience.The transformations of the

thirteen women from the lastshow were amazing. Ifyou're interested to sign upfor her next 'wam bamcomedy jam' show, here's herwebsite www.skitz-in-frona-ya.com. She's a standup, and stand out comedianwith a slow style that'spowerful, and she loves toteach her students comedy.

Darren Frost: A Brantfordcomedian who's very busy.Darren will be touringOntario in 2016 with his“Dirty Tour” and he's the firstCanadian comic to release anonline comedy store:comedywhorestore.comwhere you can purchase USBstick comedy sets, DVD setsand other goodies. He'scurrently working on voiceover work for three popularreality TV shows! (TotalDrama Island, RidonculousRace, and CampLakebottom.)

Joseph Monaco: He's thehandsome drink of waterwearing dark shades at night.He's not a comedian, but heshould be LOL Joe supportslocal comedy like no oneelse. He'll offer rides toshows, opens his home tohungry comedians, feedsthem while at shows, butabove all that, he offerspositive encouragement,networking, love andsupport. Joe is part of thereason why Brantfordsucceeded in comedy. He's apromoter at heart and I feltthat he needed to berecognized for hiscontinuous support towardsthe comedians, and venues.Thank you so much Joe!

Mayce Galoni: Listen upfolks! Mayce is a verytalented and intelligentcomedian who's literallyrunning towards celebritystatus. November 10th he'llbe performing at HamiltonYuk Yuk's for a Cancerfundraiser, and he says he'sexcited about thisopportunity because it's for agood cause. His schedule isbusy with out of town showsnow, so when he's back in

Brantford, be sure to see himand maybe ask for anautograph too.maycegaloni.com

Manolis Zontanos: Manolissays he'd like you to checkhim out on YouTube. I thinkthat way you'll get an idea ofhis stage presence, jokestyle, crowd interaction andview his hilarious ways. LOLHere's a quick linkhttps://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=manolis+zontanos You can also findhim on Twitter @ManolisZontanos, FaceBook and atHamilton Yuk Yuk's for thelive experiences. He comesto Brantford occasionally, socheck him out when you seeor hear him name. He hasseventeen years experience.

Patrick Coppolino: Patrick'sjust released his debut onehour comedy special 'TooMuch Information' and youcan buy a copy at his websitewww.patrickcoppolino.com.He's met tons of comedystars, and he hosts theamateur night at Hamilton'sYuk Yuk's on Wednesdays.Incredibly talented with along history ofaccomplishments, he'sanother one to watch forwhen performing inBrantford. Go Patrick!

Ed House: Ed's style ofcomedy is dry humourloosely based on a poor kidwho had lots of love. Hiswife is expecting a child nextmonth, so Ed will be taking ashort leave of absence fromhis LOL Comedy Show at theStarving Artist. Big BopperBob will be hosting theWednesday night shows inEd's absence. Big Bopper isbig, and really doesn't need amicrophone LOL He'shilarious, and we wish Ed allthe best with a quick returnto the stage.

Gavin Stephens: Gavintravels all over Canadaperforming and that's exactlywhat he's doing now.Covering middle to EasternCanada. With a long history

of comedy accolades, he'sknown as a pro. If you'reinterested to book him for anevent, you can find him herewww.gavinstephens.ca

Graham Chittenden:Brantford's busiestcomedian. Graham isfinishing up his ninety showcomedy tour with theInvestors Group! InNovember he'll be touringwith the Just For Laughsfestival from the middle ofCanada out to the Westcoast. In between all that, hedoes a lot of corporatecomedy gigs. I'm not surewhen Graham is availablebut you can try booking himhere: www.grahamchit.com

Melanie Crawford:Melanie's quote: “I am fueledby watching and facilitatingothers to come out of theirshell and illuminate a room.It's not just about the laughs,it's about being someone anaudience can relate to, beingsomeone that inspires othersto live unapologetically.We're all in this together andyou'll never doubt that whenyou're at my shows.” You caninteract with Melanie everyother Wednesday night atThe Starving Artist. She'sbusy securing future comedyshows for November andDecember, so stay tuned forthose details.https://www.facebook.com/groups/109564996061802/

Nikki Payne: I saved thebest for last. Nikki says she'svery excited to be in acartoon next year on theTeletoon Network, and shehopes you'll like it. Nikkitold me she totally enjoyedherself during her last trip toBrantford. Hey, me too! LOL

So there you have it comedyfans, these are some of thecomedians who perform inour city. Next month I willshowcase two specialcomedy talents in our town.Huh...they are both women.Yay! LOL See ya soon!

LOL Luvern on Laughs

11November 2015

BAdvised -

Taryn CrieghtonTip Top Health Shoppe164 Colborne Street W519.759.3304www.tiptophealthshoppe.com

Chris SchmidtThe Colour Shoppe Inc.41 Morton Avenue East519.753.3406www.colourshoppeinc.com

Harry BazoianRE/MAX Twin CityDirect: 519.758.6801Office: 519.756.8111www.BrantfordBroker.com

Multiple Offers – Part 3

So, what else do we need to know about multipleoffers. Well I can tell you that although price isdefinitely a key factor and usually the biggestdeciding factor, it’s not always the only decidingfactor. Many a bidding war has been lost not over theprice, but the conditions of the offer. In many casesover the years my clients had a better offer when itcame to price but too many conditions killed the dealfor them. In some cases they were ok with theoutcome and in some cases, in hindsight they wishthey had taken a bit more of a risk. Either way, Imade sure they knew the scoop and they wereinformed with the right information to make theproper decision for them, because the bottom line isthat sometimes in multiple offers you may want totake a risk to get what you want but you need to beinformed with regards to that risk.

I love to do what I call “work things backwards” and Ido it all the time in many aspects of the real estatebusiness. In this case what I mean is, if you’re theSeller and your home is listed for $299,900 and youreceive multiple offers, lets say 2 offers and the firstoffer is for $300,000 with no conditions and thesecond offer is for $303,000 with financing and homeinspection conditions for a week. The potential Buyerthat submitted the $303,000 offer may think he issitting pretty good but if you work it backwards andthink of how the Seller is going to view these 2 offersyou’ll see you may not be in as good of shape as youthink. In more cases than not the Seller would love tograb your offer for more money BUT, chances are theSeller also has a home that they already have anoffer in on and they may be at risk of losing it if theydon’t firm up quickly, plus there is always the stress

factor of the whole process and they may just want itdone so that they know where they stand with bothhomes, their current home and the one they’repurchasing. Therefore, although your offer of$303,000 is for more money, they take the $300,000offer because there are no conditions and the soldsign would literally go up that night.

This happens more than you think. Now from a RealEstate Broker’s point of view please don’t get mewrong. I am not suggesting that just because you’reinto multiple offers you just go ahead and forgo allthe conditions you would have put into the offer ifnot in multiple offers, but be very careful about whatconditions you put in. What I mean is, lets say thehome you’re wanting to buy is 5 years old. Thenewness of this home doesn’t mean that there isnothing wrong with it because there could be. I amjust saying if I was going to take a bit of a risk and notgo with a home inspection condition I would probablyfeel more comfortable doing that on a newer homerather than a 70 year old home. It’s the same with thefinance condition, a great way to not have to worryabout the finance condition is to get pre-approved.That way if you get into a multiple offer situationthere is no need for a finance condition. By the way,financing and home inspection are the 2 mainconditions in most offers unless the offer is on a ruralproperty or unless you also have a home to sell inwhich case you’d most likely want a sale of propertycondition in there as well.

So, be protected but don’t let conditions kill the dealon your dream home!

For more info on this or any other Real Estate matter,visit my website www.BrantfordBroker.com or callme direct at 519-758-6801

Tammy Hunt-EechauteThe Closet Door111 Sherwood Dr519‐771‐8954www.facebook.com/TammyJeanene

Well we are heading into cold & flu season, butTip Top Health Shoppe & Crystal Salt Spa haseverything you need to keep you & your familyhappy & healthy! Your first line of defence tostay well is your immune system, & believe it ornot a big part of that system is your gut. Yourgood intestinal flora not only break down thefood you consume down to the vital nutrientsyour body requires to thrive, but they also keepbad bacteria, parasites, yeast & fungi in check.Eating cultured foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, &drinking Kobucha & Kefir all help maintain ahealthy gut balance.

In general for a healthy immune system youshould be taking as a baseline a good qualitymultivitamin, greens formula, fish oil andprobiotic. We also carry chaga mushroom,which has the highest anti-oxidant score on theplanet, and a very mild, pleasant taste. If youfeel you are run down, it doesn’t hurt to take animmune boosting formula as well. And ofcourse Vitamin C is a great immune boost. Kidslove our Natural Factor’s chews, which are buy 1get 1 for 50% off right now. Chaga & fermenteddrinks will be served at our smoothie bar soon.

Even with a healthy immune system, we areexposed to viral and bacterial infections all the

time, & sometimes you are bound to get a bug.But that doesn’t mean you will get sick! At thefirst sign of infection, taking anti-viral/anti-bacterial oil of Oregano under the tongue everyfew hours is often enough to fight it off. We alsocarry Doterra Essential Oils which you can buyby the drop & their “On Guard” formula is a verypotent blend. You can take it internally, apply ittopically or inhale/diffuse it to ward off orcombat infectious bugs. And of course there issalt. Gargling with pure Himalayan crystal saltdissolved in hot water is very effective if you useit asap after symptoms begin. Salt lamps putnegative ions into the air, neutralizing positivelycharged free radicals & EMF waves. And ofcourse a salt treatment in our Crystal Salt Cavedoes this on a much more concentrated level, &is very effective at cleansing lungs, sinuses,detoxifying through your skin & leaving you veryrelaxed. Holiday special on now, buy a giftcertificate for 4 sessions for just $100, savingyou $80! If you do succumb to a bug, we havenatural products to help you feel better soon.Be well. Let Tip Top Health Shoppe & CrystalSalt Spa get you in tip top shape to thrivein, notjust survive, the cold & flu season!

When you come into our store you willquickly see that we are different from everyother paint store. We are neither a boxstore, even though our building may havethat commercial/industrial look, nor acorporate store or franchise. We are a trulyindependent paint store. We are not underany corporate umbrella or dictated to sell aparticular line of paint or product.

When you come to our store…

1. You are at the paint department.When you enter, you are greetedimmediately to show that you are valuableto us and that we care that you are here. Wedo not have any button to press to page anassociate. You also won’t experienceconstant annoying pages for an associate tohelp someone at a particular location. Wepromise to always have employees availableso you won’t have to go searching forsomeone to help you.

2. You will always see the same faces.Our great staff will be here every time. Thisallows us to help you with every project youare working on from beginning to end.

There will be no need to have to explain overand over to each new person who helps you.We are amazing at remembering your painthistory. This familiarity turns intorelationships where we know you and whatyou have accomplished.

3. You will find a wider variety ofproducts.Box stores and “chain stores” only carryproducts that move quickly. If it doesn’t sell,they discount it and never carry it again.When you need a particular product or havea particular situation, more often than not,we have the specialty products to help yousave money and time to get your job doneright the first time. Our specialty servicesthat set us apart from other paint storesinclude carrying out product to your vehicle,custom paint matching, custom colourcreation (making a colour lighter than thisone but darker than that one), custom stainmatching, custom stain colour creation,expert advice on how to prepare and applyall our products, and customer service withevery purchase. Guaranteed.

It’s worth supporting local business bybuying from local businesses.

Hangers full of clothing in what we used tolove ...CLOSET LOVE!Whether your a shopper of thrift, maybeyour guilty pleasure of shopping high end?YOU can make better choices in where torecycle your gifts of clothing that oncewhere the hit of the party, an evening outwith your friends or your work attire thatyou want to SUIT UP, CHANGE UP!

There is value in your clothing that can bewell loved by another, the value of selfconfidence and styles they might notafford otherwise. Look into yourcommunity and support local that givesback local! "Keeping Up with theKardashians", Lets change that inBrantford to "Keeping UP with theCOMMUNITY", by keeping up with all Thriftstores that inspire others for a cause. Letyour clothes be the meaning to keeppaying it forward!

Lots of loving thrift stores, with passionwith that "seeing is believing" concept! Youwanna have your donation seen and notjust heard. The Closet Door does just that,it doesn't just hide behind the norm ofbeing just heard, as YOUR monetary

donation is posted monthly to theFacebook Page and gifted to our loved localcancer clinic, along with the gift chosen forthe patient going through treatment....afterall YOU are the reason that makes thispossible and present.

You need to be dressed up in CLOSETLOVE?, YES PLEASE! Opening YOURCLOSET DOOR for a cause, a new item tofind and indulge in seeing all your heartson your sleeves displayed in your closet!ADD a little CLOSET LOVE to yourcommunity and self indulge, you deserve it!Since this is a expertise column i shouldadd a little fashion advice so here it is.....Keep it Simple,...there is one thing that willnever go out of style, DONATING! Right!

Look fashion forward to my next article inDecember's BScene issue! ...."Let it Snow"! Adviceon how to dress for those "winter wonderland"events and "baby, it's cold outside", but warminside our closets!

What A Truly Independent Paint Store Means To You

Keep Happy & Healthy this Cold & Flu Season!

Closet Love!

Brantford-Brant Event Guide November 2015Stay Updated! Visit BScene.ca for additions and changes

Follow @BScenePaper on twitter and BScenePaper on facebook

Send your event listing to events@Bscene.ca

Deadline for Next Edition: November 25

14 November 2015

Grand River Naturals is located at 111 SherwoodDr in Brantford’s Artisan Village. I sat with ownerHercules and learned all about it.

B: When did the business open?

Hercules: We opened our storefront in The ArtisanVillage in September, originally moving from Galt,Ontario. We also have a satellite location at theBrantford Farmers Market. We chose the farmersmarket platform to launch the company, because Ithought people that see value in buying local andorganic food, would also see value in buying ourproducts that are made from mostly local, organic,botanicals and additives. We opened this storefrontso we could have a retail location close to thefarmers market to service this new and growingcustomer base and because the spirit of the Artisan'svillage made us feel like it's a place we should be.

B: What do you do here?

Hercules: Grand River Naturals is all about naturalsoap and skin care. The thing we are probably bestknown for is our handmade cold-processed soaps.We also have a line of Dead Sea products: Dead Seasalt and Dead Sea mud. We believe they are the mosttherapeutic out of all of the salts in the world. Wecarry a baby line as well. It’s unscented and verynatural, so you can feel confident about what you puton your child's skin. Then we have our body careproducts: Salt scrubs, sugar scrubs, foot balms footsoap and a variety of things like that. They are alldesigned to take care of your skin. We makeeverything here locally on site and start with thingsyou can eat. One of our mottos is, “If you can't eat ityou won't find in our natural skin care products.”Everything we do is natural. We do not use anychemicals and we are phasing out the use of artificialcolours.

B: What are the benefits of your products versusstore bought products?

Hercules: One of the things we pride ourselves on is, ifyou read our ingredients on our products, it’s all thingsyou’ll recognize; likely things that are in your ownhome. When you compare our products to items you’llfind in a drug store, you’ll see things you think are soapbut some are just petrochemicals engineered to latherand cleanse. Do they cleanse your skin? Sure. Maybe,but they are made with chemicals and are cooked upin a lab. All that goes down the drain into our soil andwaterways. We feel confident when you use ourproducts that they are great for you and theenvironment.

B: How do you give back to the community?

Hercules: We take pride in making this quality ofproduct available at a similar price as you’ll find thestore bought soaps. Often you’ll find all natural basedproducts are too high priced for an average family'sbudget. We make sure to keep our prices reasonable.We also give proceeds from sales to children'scharities. When I started this business it was because itwas hard to find natural and safe product for ourchildren. We worry about what we put in or on ourbodies and even more so, on our children.

B: Where does the name Grand River Naturalscome from?

Hercules: The Grand River is of course a tribute towhere we are. It is such a beautiful, historic and naturalbody of water. It reflects what's important to us as acompany, in terms of paying attention to theenvironment and the ebb and flow of nature.Originally, the company was called Grand River Soap,but it very quickly expanded beyond that, so wechanged the name to Grand River Naturals. Thatreflects the natural element of all of our products.

"On the grow" with BrantFroBrantFro is visiting BRANTastic Businesses, with photography by Luvern Mornin.

Your Way Developmental Support Services ishelping people connect with the community andso much more. I spoke with owner Deanna tolearn how.

B: What do you do?

Deanna: I provide Support Services to people whohave a developmental disability as well as home careto anyone who needs it. My business is all aboutsupporting people and helping them get out, aboutand to be a part of the community. There are twomain parts of Your Way Developmental SupportServices. First, there's developmental services whichcan be anything from personal care, teaching life

skills, assisting involunteer efforts, aswell as offering jobcoaching to assist anindividual in finding andmaintaining a job thatsuits them. Then thereis home care. We offer ahelping hand to anyonewho needs a littleassistance. It could be asenior who wants tocontinue to liveindependently in theirown home, or a personwho has injuries froman accident or illness tocompassionatepalliative care. Things assimple as making ameal, getting to anappointment and day today house work as wellas personal care, can beoverwhelming or

impossible and we can help with that.

B: How did you get into this field?

Deanna: From the beginning to as far back as I canremember, I have always been about helping others.After high school, I went on to college and took theDSW course. I have worked in many different areaspertaining to life skills, residential services, jobcoaching and all activities of daily living and then Iwent on to fostering. I became a foster parent forchildren with special needs and have been for over10 years. I then thought about getting back into thecommunity and started looking to see where therewas a need. I found there is a great need for support

services at home and I plan to help fill that gap inour community.

B: Where do you see this business in five years?

Deanna: Right now I’m only one person and I canonly do so much. I’m taking it step by step andfollowing this path to see where it leads. I know a lotof support workers whom I respect, and haveworked with who would also like to connect withfamilies in the community. I’m looking forward tohearing from different people about what theirneeds are and what they are looking for. Being anew company, I want to grow in the direction ofwhat our clients need. You can contact me atdeanna@yourwaydss.com with your suggestions orcomments.

B: How does what you do impact the community?

Deanna: By increasing the quality of life for thepeople I work with, we not only make their livesbetter but we impact the lives of the people theyinteract with in the community. My clients come firstand I’m not necessarily on the clock. My job is towork with people and improve their quality of lifeand that involves a lot of work on my own time andeven in some cases, volunteered time, to end upwith the best result for my clients. You can learnmore about me or my services on my website. -www.yourwaydss.com

B: Where does the name come from?

Deanna: It’s your way, I’m saying to the individualand the family. It’s all about you. It’s not only whatyou want but how you want it. It’s your way..

15November 2015

Lily Crawford has been anartist in the art scene for just4 years, but in February of2015, after noticing a distinctlack of art in our downtowncore, she opened TheCrawford Collective. As thename suggests, theshowroom is a collective ofartists that Lily has broughttogether to showcase theircreations. On the first Fridayof every month, local artistsand their works arepresented at an eventfittingly called First Friday.The event is an incredibleopportunity to meet andgreet with the Collective’sartists and offers a greatexperience for visitingguests. Since its inception,this event has inspired otherlocal businesses in thedowntown core to hold theirown First Fridaycelebrations; Lily isextremely proud of the effectit has had in downtownBrantford.

When most people think ofan art gallery, many assumeit is just pictures in frameshung on walls, but TheCrawford Collective has somuch more to offer. Worksof art crafted from almost

every medium arerepresented: paintings,sculptures, jewelry,photography, pottery,etcetera. Prices on thevarious works of art rangefrom as little as $7 tobasically cover the cost ofmaterials, to pieces thatreflect the time and effortthe artist has invested intotheir work. This upcomingholiday season, Lily eagerlyencourages people to stop induring business hours to findthat one-of-a-kind piece ofart for themselves or thosethey love; leaving thecustomer with thesatisfaction of supportinglocal art. Lily is available tohelp you learn more abouteach work and find the piecethat is right for you.

The Crawford Collective willbe open on Sunday’s duringthe month of December, andwill feature a complete artchangeover beforeChristmas. They will alsohave a Christmas Market,beginning Friday, December4th, that will run untilSunday, December 6th. TheChristmas market will focuson unique gift items for theChristmas Season. This willprove to be an exciting eventso make sure to be seen thisholiday season at TheCrawford Collective.

To find more informationabout the CrawfordCollective, please visit thenonline atwww.thecrawfordcollective.com, find them on Facebook,or stop in and visit. They areopen Tuesday through Friday10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturdays10 a.m. to 4 p.m. andSundays (December only.) 12

p.m. to 5 p.m.

A New Home for the Arts in Brantford

Photos: Dean Ellis

In Celebration of Small Business week, the Salute to BrantBusiness 2015 event was held on Thursday October 22nd. Joshuaand Jason went Behind the Scene to find out more.Heralded as a salute to businesses in the County of Brant, theevening was a premier event for the region. The event focused onlocal businesses working together with County staff and localpoliticians to increase the economic base of the County.Approximately 180 people attended the 14th year of this inspiringevent. It has only continued to grow and raise awareness for theEconomic Development and Strategic Investments division of theCounty since its inception. The business community has becomequite astute at forwarding leads to the EDSI to help and assistlocal businesses in prospering.

“This is a small thank you to the business community for itssupport in helping grow the County economy. We often hearbusiness people talking and saying “we didn’t know you did that” ifwe can get a broader knowledge of what people do then they aremore likely to make use of business in the County.”

David Johnston - General Manager of Economic Development andStrategic Investments

The event was a great success and everyone left with a smile ontheir face, ready to go back to business as usual on Friday.

16 November 2015

Being Seen with BSceneA look back on September, through the eyes of our reporters and photographers.

SCARE IN THE SQUARE - ZOMBIE WALK 2015

SHOP TILL YOU DROP 2015

SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH - 125TH ANNIVERSARY

Photos: Jason Freeze

Photos: Jason Freeze

Photos: Jason Freeze

17November 2015

Being Seen with BSceneA look back on September, through the eyes of our reporters and photographers.

BRANT SUNRISE PROFESSIONAL GROUP

For additional pictures and coverage, be sure to check out Bscene.ca and our facebook page. To BeSeen with BScene, contact Jason Freeze (jason@bscene.ca) or Joshua Wall ( joshua@bsecne.ca)

BACK TO THE FUTURE DAY - DIMES FOR ETHAN Photos: Dr Brenda Gough

Photos: Dean Ellis

18 November 2015

In my last article we tracedsettlement in the Brantfordarea from the end of the iceage until the arrival of theHaundenosaurnee.

The arrival of theHaundenosaurnee hastenedsettlement in the Grand RiverValley of Upper Canada.Joseph Brant, travelling alongthe Detroit path, led hispeople to the Grand RiverValley in the fall of 1784. Notonly did Brant encourage hisnon-Native friends to thearea, other non-Natives wereattracted by the prospect oftrade and barter with thesizeable Native population.

The first settlers that arrivedfound a land covered in athick forest. The first order ofbusiness was to clear the landand build homesteads. Thehomes were small and simple,round logs caulked withwoodchips and clay. Therewere no glass windows,rather openings covered withoiled paper to make themtranslucent. The earliestsettler’s settled beside riversand creeks and worked theirway inland over time. Theland was rich, providing anexcellent yield for crops. Thiswas a land where settlerscould prosper. A productivefarm could be establishedwithin six or seven years.

In 1793 Benaijah Mallory andhis father-in-law AbrahamDayton claimed land in theBurford area. Dayton built thefirst house in what becameBurford. Thomas Horner alsoarrived in 1793 and built thearea’s first saw and grist mills.Whiteman’s (white man)Creek was named after him.

Of note, Joseph Brant moved

to Burlington in 1798, buildinga fine home overlooking LakeOntario on land granted tohim for his loyal service tothe King during the AmericanRevolution. Brant passedaway in Burlington in 1807.His remains are interred atthe Mohawk Chapel.

The Ellis and Sturgis familiesaccepted Brant’s offer of landin the Mount Pleasant area in1799. The village of MountPleasant was the first tradingcentre in the area. It wasnamed by Henry Ellis in 1800because it reminded him ofhis home in Wales. There isno mount or high ground inMount Pleasant, it is locatedon an unbroken plain.

The Mohawk Village thatBrant started was still theprincipal and largestsettlement in this area. Thefirst inhabitant in what wouldbecome Brantford was JohnStatts. (Published histories ofthe area identify him as JohnStalts but recent researchsuggests that the spelling ofhis last name may have beenmisinterpreted, the double tat the end of his nameinterpreted as l t becauseonly one t was crossed.Reviewing settlement recordsindicates that the surnameStalts was unique whereasthere is evidence of the Stattssurname in Upper Canada.)John built a log hut in 1805where the Boar WarMemorial now stands in frontof the Armoury. This locationwas near the ford, a shallowspot on the Grand River usedas a crossing. Enos Bunnellbuilt a cabin nears Statts’ twoyears later. This site wascalled Mississauga Hill,because it was a favouritecamping ground of theMississaugas.

The exact location of the fordhas been debated fordecades. Local historian, thelate Robert Deboer,researched this extensivelyand through his efforts, thelocation was determined tobe between the Lorne Bridgeand the TH & B railway bridgeconnecting Brant’s Crossingwith Fordview Park. A plaquein Lorne Park identifies the

location of the crossing.

Jacob Langs settled in whatwould become Langford inBrantford Township in theearliest days of the 19thcentury. In 1806 John Oles Sr.and Issac Whiting settledalong Fairchild’s Creek.

The opening of the LondonRoad to the Grand Rivercrossing from Hamilton in1810 made the countrysidemore accessible The road wasrough, little better than apath. By 1812 it became acorduroy road (logs laid sideby side) to facilitate troopmovements. In 1815 the roadwas planked, graded andlevelled, but by no means wastravel on this road quick orcomfortable; a trip from theGrand River crossing toHamilton, a distance of 23miles, took seven hours.

Non-Native settlement at theGrand River crossing wasslow. Thirteen years afterStatts built his log hut, 1818,the population at the crossingconsisted of 12 people.However things were aboutto soon change. MarshalLewis arrived from New Yorkin 1821 and built a grist mill.Lewis reportedly constructedthe first bridge across theGrand River at the crossing.Consider H. Crandon, acarpenter fromMassachusetts, arrived aboutthe same time.

By 1823 the London Road wascompleted to London and thepopulation at the crossingwas about 100. Thecompletion of the road andthe potential of trade withthe Natives attractedbusiness and tradesmen tothe crossing. Three tradingstores were operating ownedby John Aston Wilkes, S.V.R.Douglas, and Nathan Gage;two shoe shops owned byWilliam Dutton and ArunahHuntington; and a blacksmithshop established by WilliamQua.

Wilkes store was opened andrun by his sons, John andJames. Wilkes Sr. joined themin 1825. Wilkes became a largelandowner in the area.

Huntington, who came herefrom Vermont, possessedkeen business instincts andamassed a small fortune withhis business and moneylending enterprises.

Up until 1820 mail had to becollected in Ancaster, when apost office was established inBurford. A post office wasopened at the crossing in1825.

The community continued togrow slowly. A school wasopened on what is nowMarket Square in 1826. By1827 between two and threehundred non-Natives lived inthe vicinity of the crossing.The settlement needed aname. Marshal Lewissuggested Lewisville; RobertBiggar of Mount Pleasant,who owned land at thecrossing and built the secondbridge across the GrandRiver, lobbied for Biggar’sTown; John Wilkes wantedBirmingham, his home town.Since the place was at thelocation were Joseph Brantforded the river, Brant’s ford,this name gained unanimousapproval. The ‘s was quicklydropped and Brantford wasborn.

Since the settlement waslocated on Native territorythe settlers were concernedwith the legalities of theirland transactions; they didnot have clear title to thelands they acquired. Thissituation resulted in the slowgrowth of the settlementduring the 1820‘s. In 1830 theNatives surrendered 807acres to the Crown, for 5shillings, as a town plot. Thesettlers could then obtainformal titles to theirproperties. The site of thevillage was the farm of ChiefJohn Hill. Lewis Burwell, thedeputy surveyor to PeterRobinson, Commissioner ofCrown Lands, was taskedwith preparing a survey of thearea and a plan for the village.Lewis’ village plan consistedof eight streets running east/ west and thirteen streetsrunning north / south.

Next column, Brantfordbecomes a village.

A Look Back

JACK JACKOWETZ

@jJackowetz

jJackowetz

Return with me, one-halfmillennium,To a fording place in a grand riverYet untouched by Europeans.

Breath deep this Carolinian forestWhere Snapdragons and Trilliumsglorify Mother Earth,And bear and beaver too soon willroam no more.

Here, a path to the river’s edgeIs trampled hard by generations ofmoccasined travelers,And bullfrogs and trout feed in itscattail border.

In 300 years, this paradise will beclaimed –A tract racked with the pain ofdevelopment.No forest. No legacy. No memory.

DAVID V. MCKEE

Before theGenesis ofBrantford

POETRY

Be Seen withBScene!

BScene.ca

19November 2015

With modern pop musicoften being more of a mixof auto tune vocalsmanufactured in the studioand lip syncing in concert,we were impressed to seeFARAHRI bare all with anacapella version of her soonto be released “What SheSaid” single, during herRogers Inside Brantinterview. Her powerfulvoice could be heard wellbeyond the sound proofstudio, captivating bothstaff and awaiting guests,and making it very apparentwhy this up and comingCanadian performer isbecoming an InternationalPop Sensation.

Equally powerful is themessage FARAHRI’s songscontain. Not wanting to bejust another starlet singingabout her booty and fastmoney, she is using herfame to bring positivemessages to today’syounger generations. Hermessages are not just foundin her music, but also in herlife. As the foundingmember of the GlobalPursuit of Positivity orGPoP for short, FARAHRIwrites and speaks about thevery basic concept of lovingoneself. FARAHRI believes alot of the world’s problemsstem from the root cause ofpeople not lovingthemselves, which yieldsand breeds negativity anddestruction. Furtherinformation about the GPoPmovement and becoming aFARAHRI Firefly can befound on her website,www.farahri.com .

Her voice and her messagehave caught the attentionof not only fans around theworld, but other artists aswell. Artists such asChoclair and Gyptian havedone remixes withFARAHRI’s early singles andshe has already shared thestage with superstars such

as Usher, Chris Brown,Shaggy and Beenie Man.Her current soon to bereleased single “What SheSaid” has been picked up bythe hit Sirus XM radio showof the same name as theirtheme song.

FARAHRI will be doing twoshows in Brantford on Nov21st at Holiday Concert forDisadvantaged Youth, beingcoordinated by RaymondKnight at Club NV. Allproceeds from theperformances will be goingto Help a Child Smile,Easter Seals and other local

charities. Knight explains“In all of our fund raising

events we attempt tobenefit as many childrenand youths in need aspossible”. He continued“After hearing FARAHRIspeak about her passion inGPoP we knew we neededto add an all ages event tothe concert we hadplanned. She has a messageour youth needs to hear”.The all ages event isscheduled from 5pm to9pm, and will include fullperformances as well as DJ‘s. The 19+ concert will startat 9:30pm the sameevening.

Also performing withFARAHRI is special

guest performer AndreaGodin. Andrea, originallyfrom St. George and aformer St John’s student isseeing her own singingcareer take off very quickly.This concert will mark herfirst appearance inBrantford since beinginvited on stage to sing withNew Kids on the Block’sJoey McIntyre overThanksgiving weekend, andthe release of her latestsingle, “Falling”.

2015 has been an incredibleyear for Andrea. Her mostrecent collaboration withItalian artist ALVINO,“Outta Your Hands”, andcharted #6 on the iTunesDance Charts. Her video“Hot Summer” has alsoreached over 1 million views

on Youtube as well. Nowwith the release of “Falling”Andrea is poised to take theworld by storm.

Like FARAHRI, Andrea has apassion for today’s youthand the struggles they face.To this extent Andrea hasinvited Candie Buck tospeak briefly before herperformance during the allages’ show. “Candie is ahighly sought aftermotivational speaker for

both youth and adults”exclaimed Knight, “We arevery grateful Andrea hasbeen able to arrange for todo a short presentation atour event”

Tickets to both shows are$10 each in advance, withparents accompanyingtheir children to the AllAges show being free. ClubNV will be alcohol free onthe main level and dancefloor during the All Agesperformance, with a speciallounge upstairs for parentssponsored by Silver LakePremium Vodka. Bothshows are being brought toBrantford by the generosityof Corine Johnson, of CozyCommanda Lake Cottages,and strong supporter ofmental health in Brantford.

Tickets are available inBrantford at Crazy Bill’s,Archie’s Place, Club NV,Jebbo’s Computers,Mattress Miracle, and theCircus Room in TurkeyPoint. Also companieswishing to purchase largeblocks of tickets at specialpricing can do so by calling519-732-8480.

BScene Music Scene: FARAHRI & Andrea Godin

Singer Farahri, who will be performing at Club NV November 21.

Andrea Godin will be a special guest performer.

20 November 2015

BScene Music Scene: Chris Strei

Singer, songwriter, andguitarist Chris Strei hashad an enthusiastic love formusic stemming from anearly age. Catching up withChris in his hometown ofBrantford, we got right intohow music has beensomething within himsince childhood. Fromplaying a keyboard tosinging alongside songs onthe radio, he laughs withhumility and an energeticpresence, sharing a storyof singing in a shoppingcart as a young boy in adepartment store. Streiadmits that there wasalways an attraction tomusic and singing, but itwasn't until a little later atthe age of 13 where hereally developed his desirefor making music- hismusic.

A solo artist as well as frontman for Minus Everything,Strei takes from music

culture and hissurroundings, saying hiswriting process oftencomes from just anemotion. "Every once inawhile the dam will breakand a few songs gethammered out without itbeing a forced process;kinda like the right drunkout of sober, and it justcomes together.Sometimes music first,sometimes lyrics first, andthen the mashup happens.”Something Strei feels addslayers to the music,

especially whenperforming on stage. ButchWalker is someone whocomes up in conversation,and I can see why.

When it comes torecording, MinusEverything have recordedone full length, ten trackalbum FACES straight frommom's garage andbasement. “Find a room orspace that works andsounds well and go with it,”says Strei. MinusEverything is planning towork with a producer ontheir next album despitenot doing so on their firsttwo. They are stillcontinuing the trend oftheir first album by havingone good party song, muchthe same as Alice Cooperhas done on albums.

“Intervals,” the name ofStrei's aquostic set at theStarving Artist in Brantfordwhere he performsmonthly, is an intimate setof original songs that easefrom one to the next andhave the audience engagedin the soul and sound ofStrei's lyrical guitar playing.

In 2008, Strei was in aserious car accident thatleft him in the hospital andin limbo about his physicalcondition, but not leavinghim without his desire tocontinue in music. While ina hospital bed, he was stillthinking about his next gig,even after hearing that thisaccident could potentiallychange his physical lifeforever. Making

concessions about how hecould keep his obligatoryperformances he hadbooked, Strei persevered,recovered, and isperforming all over. Notjust Brantford, but in theGTA as well. Last weekendMinus Everything (withbandmates Kevin Ronsomon bass and vocals, anddrummer Jordan Malcolm)played at The Central inToronto along with BadReed, another local bandwith a great following.When asked about thelocal band scene and thecircles they run in, Streisaid “thinking about all thebands out there, gettinggigs, and creating afollowing can be tough, butwe are all making ithappen.”

You can catch MinusEverything in localestablishments, includingsuch places as Central inToronto, Corktown inHamilton, and in andaround the GTA.

Chris Strei. Photos: Dean Ellis

21November 2015

BScene Music Scene: Brantford Symphony OrchestraMusic filled the air as the Brantford Symphony Orchestra graced the Sanderson Centre with theirmagical performance this afternoon. The stage was bustling with musicians, instruments andfanfares as they prepared for their big show. Unlike some other musical groups, the BrantfordSymphony Orchestra only rehearses their set once before their performance.

This first concert of the 2015/2016 season brings listeners to the home of many famous Classicalcomposers – Vienna. “Viennese Connections” offers a selection of music from Beethoven, Haydn, J.Strauss, and Mozart. You can find out more about the BSO and their performances atwww.brantfordsymphony.ca

Make sure to Be Seen listening at the next concert with the Brantford Symphony Orchestra!

Photography by: Ida AdamowiczAries: It’s all about the Spidey Senses.It takes courage to face the truth;when you take a honest look at yourfears they will dissolve. Release anyworries surrounding money and closethe door on self shaming.

Taurus: Relationships are in thespotlight. It’s crucial to rememberthey're a dance between giving andreceiving. Any partnership leaving youfeeling drained must change. Trust inyourself but also know it’s safe to letothers in.

Gemini: Stay in the moment. Life asyou know it may be dissolving butallow the change to occur. This may bea confusing time, but keep breathingdeep and don’t be afraid to feel youremotions.

Cancer: Make playtime a priority. If lifefeels heavy spend time doing what youlove. As you follow your heart manynew people will enter your life. Havefaith and release old relationships tomake room for the new.

Leo: A legacy is being born; start bybuilding a solid foundation withinyourself. As you create a home base ofself love each puzzle piece will fall intoplace unveiling a masterpiece.

Virgo: The more you share and expressyourself; the more blessings you’llreceive. Expansion, learning andadventure surround you. Open yourmind, share your truth and soak up thefun.

Libra: You are worthy of it all. Avoidover thinking how you will receivewhat you desire. Instead take a deepbreath and trust you are worth it.

Scorpio: Like when the cabin pressureon an airplane drops; this month youlearning to secure your mask beforesecuring others. If relationships triggeryou; amp up the self love and be yourown partner.

Sagittarius: It’s a time of endings andbeginnings. Take it moment bymoment, embrace an attitude ofgratitude and know all will be clearernext month.

Capricorn: It’s an exciting time ofconnections and community. Takewhat you love and share it with theworld. Everyone benefits from yourpassion.

Aquarius: What’s the legacy you areleaving behind? Get clear on that thismonth. Set goals, brainstorm newideas and take it step by step. If youare nervous, spend quiet time aloneand connect to your inner power.

Pisces: If you are feeling drawn totravel somewhere or learn somethingnew go for it. The more you expresswhat you desire the more connectionsand support you will experience.

Looking for even deeper insight?Shannon is available for your ownpersonal readings.

22 November 201522 November 2015

He Shot / She Shot:

23November 2015 23November 2015

Merry Christmas, Evan!!!