This is a combination of two posts from Steve Howes on Facebook posted December 9, 2021 and December 9, 2015

Throwback Thursday…FB has reminded me that 6 years ago tonight, I sat in the audience at Council Chambers and watched Degrassi creator Linda Schuyler donate $1 Million to help save the Old Town Hall. In appreciation, the County gave Linda this beautiful painting by Holly Ounapuu.

It was an important night for our Community and the building was renamed The Bawcutt Centre, in recognition of Linda’s family. (Linda’s father, former Paris Mayor Jack Bawcutt recently passed away.)

Six years later, I gratefully find myself part of the County of Brant Council and we have significant new plans for this building as part of our new Paris Main Branch Library. Stay tuned as the “next chapter” of this exciting story unfolds.

From December 9, 2015: Kudos to Holly O (Holly Ounapuu) for creating a beautiful painting of The Old Town Hall (in a scene from a snowy Open House evening several years ago). I remember being there for a tour that snowy night, and Holly perfectly captured the emotion and energy. This painting was a gift from the County of Brant to Linda Schuyler last night at Council as a Thank You for her $1 Million donation for the purchase and restoration of this building. The painting, called “Cue the Lights” is fabulous and what a perfect gift for such a generous donation. It was an inspiration to hear Linda speak about growing up in Paris (after immigrating from England) and seeing her parents so active in the community. Linda went on to create Degrassi, which has been running for 35 years…A true success story. The building will be named The Bawcutt Centre in honour of her family. Both of Linda’s parents, Joyce and former Paris Mayor Jack Bawcutt, were in attendance last night – looking great in their 90’s!