July 2019 Royal Canadian Legion, Orillia, Branch 34 215 Mississaga St. E., Orillia, Ontario L3V 1W2 Vet’s Gazette

Ken Neilson, Tyler Shepperdson and Peter DeVillers , Branch 34 Service Officer.. Tyler was presented with a Quilt of Valor. See story on page 7

In Flanders Fields Take up our quarrel with the foe, In Flanders fields the poppies blow To you from failing hands we throw Between the crosses, row on row, The torch; be yours to hold it high. That mark our place: and in the sky If ye break faith with us who die The larks, still bravely singing, fly We shall not sleep, though poppies Scarce heard amid the guns below. grow In Flanders Fields. We are the Dead. Short days ago Col John McCrae We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow Loved, and were loved and now we lie in Flanders fields. PAGE 2 VET’S GAZETTE

Special Events Branch Officers Scottish Festival Carrie Dunn Angela Paylor 705-323-9759 President - Bob Thomas 705-325-4695 1st Vice President - Rick Purcell 705-330-4815 Special Committees Chairpersons 2nd Vice President - Jack Hird 705-619-3319 Legion Crest Complex Angela Paylor 705-323-9759 Treasurer - Pipe Band Manager Linda Buchanan 705-326-5470 John Cropper 705-325-0580 Sick & Visiting Bob Dimaline 705-259-0591 Neville Gale 705-326-1312 Bob Dimaline 705-259-0591 Ladies Auxiliary Officers President - Brenda Watt 705-325-8104 Ron McCron 705-687-7390 Ralph Bernard 705-259-0931 Immediate Past President Annette Mathias 705-955-1046 Theresa Bernard 705-259-0931 Jackie Verbeek 647-607-9071 1st Vice President - Bev Brennan 705-331-3195 Padre Gerry McMillan 705-329-0338 2nd Vice President - Sherry Campbell 705-715-8861 Padre Tony Rennett 705-326-9252 Secretary - Sick & Visiting Padre Terry Bennett 705-329-0289 Bev Brennan 705-331-3195 Sergeant-at-Arms - Ron Wood 705-326-8686 Treasurer - Carol Macksey 705-644-4020 Colour Sergeant - Colin Wackett 705-325-7874 Service Bureau – Peter DeVillers 705-326-2198 Sergeant-at-Arms Sandra Evans 705-915-1036 Membership - Annette Mathias 705-955-1046 Committees Sports Officer - Brenda Watt 705-325-8104 Poppy – John Cropper Executive Membership - Annette Mathias House - Jack Hird. Funeral Lunches Cathy Wackett 705-325-7874 Sports - Neville Gale. Monday Cards - Theresa Bernard 705-259-0931 Ways and Means - Ralph Bernard Seniors - Jackie Verbeek Soup & Sandwich Luncheons - PRO - Rob McCron Deb Stanton - 705-325-4240 Youth Education - Kate Palmer Ways and Means Convener, Retirements, Birthdays, Track & Field - Jamie McIsaac Anniversaries, Small weddings Bingo, Air Cadets, Minor Ball – Rick Purcell - Dorothy Cotter 705-955-1884 Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital - Chuck Penny Craft Show—Candy Cashen 705-826-7907 and Sherry Office Personnel Campbell 705-715-8861 Administrator Laura Simpson Phoning Captain - Sharon Ross Office 705-325-8442 Bar 705-325-1266 Address Vet’s Gazette Correspondence to: Kate Palmer, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 34 215 Mississaga St. E., Orillia ON. L3V 1W2

Phone (705) 325-8442 Fax (705) 325-3758

Our email address is:

[email protected]

Our Web Site is http://www.orillialegion.com

JULY 2019 PAGE 3

President’s Ladies Auxiliary Report President’s Report Comrades, here is not much to report at this Comrades, time. I would like to thank the outgoing President Rick Purcell, ever say never is a term I often and the executive for their service use so here I am back as Tto the branch over the last 2 years. I also President of the Ladies Auxiliary. welcome back to the executive Ralph However, I do look forward to the Bernard, Neville Gale, Bob Dimaline and Nup coming year. I have a great executive John Cropper and our 2 new members, and welcome Dorothy Cotter and Annette Annette Mathias and Jackie Verbeek. Mathias, fairly new members to the Ladies Annette will be our membership chairman and Jackie will work with Jack on house, and Auxiliary. Dorothy will be our Ways and looking after the museum. I also want to Means convener and Annette will be looking welcome Rick Purcell as 1st Vice President after Membership. I would also like to and Jack Hird as 2nd. Vice President. welcome back Carol Macksey. Carol will be Our treasurer Brian Robertson has our treasurer. decided to step down, and we would like to We are a busy executive. In the thank him for his many years of time, and service, to the branch. Brian will continue as month of June we had four functions starting treasurer on the Poppy committee. with a wedding and finishing with the Sir I attended the church service and Samuel Steel parade giving us a total of parade, that was in recognition of Sir Sam approximately 395 people being served. Steele, 100 years after his death, on Sunday That’s a lot of sandwiches. June 23rd. finishing up here at the legion. Thank you to the great bunch of The Shriners provided an antique Fire Truck, ladies who volunteer their time for the which the dignitaries rode on . An antique Tudhope car was in the parade. The City Auxiliary. declared the 23rd as Sir Sam Steele day. Our dart team recently travelled to On Tuesday June 25th I had the Calender for Provincial Darts. honor of presenting the English Proficiency Remember ladies we have meetings Award to Charlotte Snake of the 8th grade in July and August. graduation class of the Mnjikaning Have a safe summer. Kendaaswin Elementry School. This was held at the Rama Mask Sports Complex. Yours in comradeship, There were 14 students graduating and moving on to high school. Congratulations to Brenda Watt all. Branch 34 Ladies Auxiliary President I hope everyone has a healthy and safe summer. Support Yours in comradeship The Scottish Festival. Bob Thomas President Buy a $2.00 Button

PAGE 4 VET’S GAZETTE

Ways and Means Stay Updated on the

hank you to everyone who voted to Legions Pilgrimage of re-elect me to the executive for Remembrance on Social another term. I have successfully completed a food handling course Media Tand received my certificate on April 23rd. On April 26th we had our first BBQ of he Royal Canadian Legion the year with the proceeds to the Scottish Pilgrimage of Remembrance is set Festival. It was very successful. On May to embark on July 6 visiting 10th another BBQ was held and one for the significant commemorative sites Ride for Dad on May 25. Myself and Billie Tincluding, Normandy, Juno, Ypres and battled the elements for these events. Passchendaele. Upcoming events include a BBQ on Legionnaire Jim Perfitt will chronicle his July 12, another BBQ on August 16th and on and the group’s experiences reflecting on the September 6th there will be a Dinner and events and immense sacrifices of those who Dance with Charlotte and the Dirty Cowboys. served. Follow them on Instragram, Twitter The last BBQ of the season will be held on and Facebook. September 20. I wish you all a good summer, stay safe. General Meetings Respectfully submitted will resume on Ralph Bernard’ Ways and Means Chairman September 11 Dinner is served at 6:30 Membership with meeting to follow ur paid up membership as of May at 7:30 31, 2019 is 939 members and 79 In order to continue with unpaid.. At our general meeting the meals we MUST have in June we voted to accept six a minimum of 20 people Onew members. We also received an Early Bird Award from Provincial Command in in attendance. Don’t miss recognition of attaining 65% or more this opportunity for a renewals in 2018. We actually attained 71% really good dinner for as of November 30, 2018. I will continue to make phone calls to the members that have only $12.00 not yet paid for 2019. Then please stay for the Respectfully submitted meeting so we have the Annette Mathias quorum necessary to carry Membership chairman on the business of the

branch. JULY 2019 PAGE 5

Ladies Auxiliary Past President’s Report Hello Comrades hat a difference a year makes! Not only did I learn so much but I made many wonderful The Branch 34 Poppy connections. I discovered that I Committee Wcould lead despite my inner challenges and follow when it was the best tfor our Invites all veterans to the organization. Mostly, I learned that as a group, we woman can accomplish pretty annual much anything! April: Once again, it was a very busy time with birthdays, retirements, weddings, funerals, businesses meetings, celebrations VETERANS’ of life and monthly branch suppers. Our soup and sandwich events have been so DINNER successful that we will need to increase our quantity, thanks to you! Tuesday, May: Along with all that, LA prepared a BBQ steak dinner for the Monday Evening Ladies September 17 Darts. The teams expressed extreme Dinner at 5 p.m. gratitude to the Ladies Auxiliary. I also attended an informative zone meeting in Midland that month. In the Vimy Room June: Again, we were very busy helping out Branch 34, the branch with celebrations, meetings and Royal Canadian Legion meals. Because of immense participation, all went very well. This invitation is extended to all veterans in With mixed emotion, I say that this is my last the Orillia area. If you know a veteran who report. I wish nothing but the very best to our you think would like to attend please let new leader, Brenda Watt. him/her know. The veteran DOES NOT have to be a Legion member. It has been a great honour! Respectfully: We will arrange transportation for those who need it. Theresa Bernard Immediate Past President, Branch 34 Ladies Auxiliary Call 705-325-8442 to book your spot RESERVATIONS WILL NOT BE TAKEN UNTIL AFTER SEPTEMBER 1ST

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Sick and Visiting

Comrades, n the past three months ending May 31st, Ray Canning, Colleen Payie, and I visited 28 Veterans, 36 Legion and ANAF Members, and 24 friends Iand acquaintances at Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. I'd like to remind fellow Legion members we volunteer to do this not only for the smiles on the patients faces, but for the enjoyment we experience from doing it, and I invite any Legion member to join us on our rounds. Comrades Len Thorne, John Devlin, Tyler Shepperdson is pictured with the creators Joan Goldsmith, Don McKenzie, Gord of the quilt from left: Linda DeVillers, Beth Dubeau, Tyler, Julie Dubeau and designer McArthur, Muriel McArthur Rich Percy,Joe Marion Brophy Fletcher and Jo Dowber continue to make visits to veterans in extended care, assisted living and private homes.

Respectfully submitted Bob Dimaline

About The Royal Canadian Legion

ounded in 1925, the Legion is Canada’s largest Veteran support and community service organization. We are a non-profit organization Quilts of Valour-Canada authentic label showing F the name of the recipient, Official ID No: and who with a national reach across Canada as well it was made by. It says, in both English and as branches in the U.S., Europe and Mexico. French: Handmade with love, respect and With close to 260,000 members, many of gratitude for your sacrifice to Canada. May the whom volunteer an extraordinary amount of hugs stitched into this quilt give you comfort, time to their branches, our strength is in our strength and love. numbers. JULY 2019 PAGE 7

that was filled with the usual routine of appointments and those run of the mill type Quilts of Valour obligations.

n April 1st at Branch 34 Canadian But it also had a very important message in it Legion in Orillia Ken Neilson, as well. Well for me it did! made the following presentation You see, a lot of things happen during the to Tyler Shepperdson on behalf course of transition - especially post service, Oof the Quilts of Valour – Canada it’s inevitable in a sense. This can be positive, negative and at times, even both, and this is “It is with honour that I present you with his OK. beautiful quilt. This quilt was personally For me personally, I forgot what it felt like to designed by Julie Ella Dubeau, Beth Dubeau, be connected with others. Or to the finer Marion Brophy and Linda DeVillers and is details that just mean so much more. itemized as "ON3-2019-10" for historical Like today... purposes . Mr. Shepperdson Served with the Gratitude is indeed the stitch that'll mend ones Royal Canadian Air Force on numerous way. domestic and international deployments I'm extremely humbled and flattered by the abroad such as Central America (Belize - work everyone put into my quilt. So many Building Schools mission), Dubia in support of hours, finding the time, thought upon design, the Afghanistan campaign, worked with the renting machines! US Forces at Fort Pickett in support of CF You all hold a very special place in my heart Forces Reserves in training there and also to and I'll never forget your care for me today. CFS Alert, Greenland and Eureka, Alaska in Thanks for the hugs, the project (QOV) and support of CF Box Top Operations. Mr. making me feel like I was at home.” Shepperdson was critically injured while Serving and has since been medically Tyler Shepperdson released. Tyler Shepperdson is most deserving to receive this wonderful comforting quilt from a grateful Nation on behalf of all those who represent Quilts of Valour - Canada Society. Thank you Tyler for your dedicated service.” For more about Quilt of Valour-Canada contact: https://www.quiltsofvalour.ca/contact.html Don Oliphant - Secretary Phone: 519-350-2099 [email protected]

While accepting his Quilt of Valour Tyler had these comments: “I awoke upon a familiar process today. One PAGE 8 VET’S GAZETTE

New Visual Identity blends While community feedback also expressed hospital history with openness to a new design, there was a strong modern design desire to maintain the name. As such, Orillia th Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital remains intact. OSMH celebrated its 111 birthday in style this Another driving factor behind the need year, with a refresh of its visual identity for change was the stark difference between ushering in a bold vision for the future that also the visual identities of OSMH and the OSMH pays tribute to the lives and sacrifices of the Foundation. About ten years ago, the soldiers who are our namesake. Foundation introduced its own unique image to Anchored by a woven emblem inspired draw attention to fundraising efforts. While by the shape of a World War I service medal that worked at the time, it was determined that presented to more than 70,000 Canadians, the a similar image shared by both organizations, new logo strongly reinforces the hospital’s “is a better approach,” said Mark Riczu, longstanding connection to local veterans. Executive Director of the OSMH Foundation. Formerly Orillia General Hospital, our hospital “We want our shared identity to reflect was renamed Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial the important connection between the hospital Hospital in 1922 in honour of local soldiers and the Foundation, working together to who served in World War I. improve the health of the community.” In step with the bold and unique new Riczu also points out that studies have graphics, the colour scheme of the logo is shown that a rebrand in the charitable sector predominantly purple, a strategic switch from can result in better fundraising performance, the previous logo that incorporated blue, white particularly as brand equity grows. and gold. “Changes to an organization’s visual “Many hospital logos are blue, and we identity are important and should never be wanted something different,” said Carmine taken lightly or without appropriate Stumpo, OSMH President and CEO. “Purple consultation,” said Stumpo. is powerful and has connotations of strength, “For the past century, our name and honour, and remembrance, and we feel it visual identity have helped define who we are, embodies much of what we strive to promote how we respect and admire the values and through our work. We’ve created a captivating commitment that soldiers have brought to their new symbol with a compelling story behind it duties, and how we as a hospital strive to that will become easily recognizable to the emulate those values in the work we do. Our community. ” visual identity reflects that commitment. It has The previous hospital logo presented evolved over time, but always with the same legibility and accessibility challenges. The intent of honouring our past, acknowledging outlined lettering and word order didn’t meet the present, and leading us into the future.” best practice standards for the visually impaired and the ornate design and writing inside the letter ‘o’, for example, wouldn’t replicate properly on smaller versions, or on embroidery placed on clothing. The other primary design element is the enhanced prominence of the word ‘Soldiers’ which is a direct result of feedback received during the community consultation phase of the project. “It’s the most common term that people use when referring to our hospital,” said Stumpo. “You’re not just going to the hospital, you’re going to Soldiers’, and that The World War 1 service medal which the means something in our community”. new OSMH logo draws inspiration from. JULY 2019 PAGE 9

Poppy

his year the Branch 34 Poppy Committee Tpresented bursaries to 5 students from the Orillia high schools. The legion members. Any veteran and their spouse presentations were made at the June general or caregiver is invited to attend. If you know a meeting. Three of the students were able to veteran who might be interested in attending attend and one was represented by her please have them call the branch AFTER grandmother. Pictured here are: John Cropper, SEPTEMEBER 1ST TO MAKE A poppy committee chairman, Anner Yep, Martina RESERVATION. Rides will be arranged for Hill (representing her granddaughter Makaila those who need them. This evening is a very Coulson,) Sam Grecco, Cassandra Watson and casual event, just dinner, comradeship and a Brian Robertson, poppy committee treasurer. little music Numbers are limited to 100 people. The fifth recipient Matthew Dixon was unable to attend. Once again the Poppy Committee will host a Veteran’s Dinner to be held in the Vimy Room on Tuesday, September 19. Many of the area veterans look forward to this annual event Below: Bob Dimaline, Theresa Bernard, which started 14 years ago. The Ladies Chuck Penny and John Cropper attended Auxiliary is planning a wonderful meal. It is the official unveiling of the new logo for important to know that this dinner is not just for Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital PAGE 10 VET’S GAZETTE

THE ROYAL CANADIAN  Money Spent on Medical Equipment and Research totaled over $1.3 million. LEGION ONTARIO  Not including funds spent on Veterans, COMMAND FACT over $557,000 was used for Seniors’ Programs SHEET  Ontario Provincial Command Branches and Ladies Auxiliaries Charitable Foundation approved $521,682.00 to April 2019 Ontario communities in 2018. Since its (Fiscal Year 2017-2018) inception in 1979, donations approved The Legion at work in amounted to over $16,959,922.52 to various Hospitals, Health Clinics, Homes Ontario: - for the Aged and Charities in communities throughout Ontario.  There were 399 Branches, with a total  - Through our Bursary program in the membership of almost 100,000 (92% of 2017-2018 academic year a total of 452 Ontario Command Branches responded to applications were awarded to students in this survey) need for post-secondary education in the  Total Poppy Donations received for 2017- total amount of $338,500.00 in the 2018 were $5,368,572.32. Statements Province of Ontario. Since the academic throughout the Fact Sheet reflect where year of 2002-2003 to 2017-2018 our these funds were disbursed by Branches Bursary program has made a total of to support Veterans, their dependents and 11,484 awards totaling $5,790,325.00 greater community  Additional Bursaries from Poppy Trust  Funds spent on Veterans Programs for funds were awarded in the amount of 2018 totaled over $2.7 million $725,115.08  Branches and Ladies Auxiliaries continue  Sponsors and facilitates low rental housing to support the Homeless Veterans for senior citizens Program - "Operation: Leave the Streets  Continued to support accessibility for Behind". As of March 2019 over $2.3 Veterans, their families and the million has be disbursed in support of 719 Communities in excess of $443,000 Veterans being assisted (of which 71 were  Continued to support Boy Scouts, Girl female Veterans) in 147 communities Guides, Army/Air/Sea/Navy Cadets and  For the year 2018 Grants from Poppy other Youth Programs in excess of funds, to the Royal Canadian Ex-Service $1.3million League in the Caribbean totaled  Other donations to local charities amount $90,950.00 to over $1.5 million, not from Poppy Trust  Provide funding for Provincial Service Funds Bureaus, for Provincial Service Officers to  Donations to local Community Projects assist, all Veterans – Currently Serving totaled over $1.3 million and Ex-Service Personnel, with pension  Ontario Command Members annually put applications, benefit concerns, on an in over 444,500 volunteer hours ongoing basis - free of charge  In 2018 Ontario Command Branches had  Ontario Command is very proud to over 6552 volunteer staff and employed support "Operation Service Dog"! In over 1300 full time and part-time staff collaboration with Wounded Warriors  Ontario Command Branches offered their Canada this program has, and will facilities free of charge to community continue, to drastically improve the lives of groups for over 27,600 occasions in 2018 many Veterans!  Branch and Ladies Auxiliary members visit Veterans in hospitals and continue to supply comforts and entertainment to enhance their quality of life JULY 2019 PAGE 11

activity.” Program helps Veterans living The first of its kind in Canada, Operation VetBuild with mental health arose from similar successful initiatives in Great Britain and the United States. Upcoming sessions challenges in Legion branches around the country this year include in Ontario (Ajax, Angus, Flesherton, OTTAWA, ON, 16 June, 2019 – Serving and Hamilton Mountain), Alberta (Edmonton), Quebec retired veterans participated in the national (Lacolle) and British Columbia (Agassiz), with launch of The Royal Canadian Legion’s new more locations to be announced in the coming Operation VetBuild program in Ajax, ON today. weeks. The program uses scale-model building kits in a To learn more about Operation VetBuild, supportive atmosphere. Working in a stress-free visit the Operation VetBuild Facebook page setting alongside other Veterans, it’s a chance to For more information on how the Legion supports learn new skills and relax. Veterans, visit: Legion Veteran support “I look forward to seeing the incredible handiwork, the camaraderie and the peer About BSO Legion OSI support that will come from Operation VetBuild,” The Royal Canadian Legion Operational Stress says Legion Dominion President, Thomas D. Injury Special Section is a national, member- Irvine, CD. driven initiative that provides outreach, peer One of the Legion’s key focus areas is the support, and referral services for Veterans and transition to post-service life, including helping their families who are affected by operational tackle issues such as the mental health stresses stress injuries, including anxiety, depression, that can come from military life. addictions, PTSD or other mental health Jason Salo, a retired reservist and military challenges. policeman says Operation VetBuild gives him a chance to meet other Veterans with similar backgrounds. “I was missing the camaraderie of getting together and chatting,” says Jason. “It is Vimy Ridge Day interesting to sit around the table with different at Base Borden generations of veterans and hear the same sorts of stories from everybody,” he says. Attending the (April 9, 2019) sessions with his 11-year old son Cohen has also ight of our legion members took part added another dimension to his experience, he in the annual Vimy Ridge Day adds. They get to participate in a fun activity ceremony at Base Borden on April 9. together, and it allows his son to learn directly Those in attendance were John ECropper, Richard Percy, William Kinghorn, Bob from other Veterans about the challenges they Dimaline, Ralph Bernard, Colin Wackett, Steve face. Craig and myself. An idea of the Legion’s Operational Stress Injury General (Ret) Walter Natynczyk, CMM Special Section (BSO Legion OSI), the response MSC CD a retired Canadian Army general who to the program’s pilot projects was extremely has served as Deputy Minister of Veterans positive. It prompted the ongoing development of Affairs since 2014 was the guest speaker at a full-scale initiative, says Craig Hood, Operation the breakfast served in the Officer’s Mess Hall. VetBuild Program Lead, and Chair, BSO Legion It was a great breakfast and everyone enjoyed OSI. the day. Thanks to John Cropper for driving “We know this sort of activity can be very us.. therapeutic,” he says. “We plan to expand to include as many branches across the country as Yours in comradeship we can, so we can give as many Veterans as Gerry Henry possible the opportunity to participate in this fun Colour Sergeant PAGE 12 VET’S GAZETTE

4. If the patient is going into a Nursing Orillia Soldiers Home or Retirement Residence in the community, we can put them on our list for Memorial Hospital future visits with our visiting team.

5. We visit all those who served in the Make sure you or your family Military. It is important that they know that informs the hospital, upon they have not been forgotten, nor has their admission if you have had military service to our country. service

eterans and those who served in the Ladies Auxiliary Canadian or Allied forces may not be treated differently, however they Soup and should be recognized differently for Vtheir service to our country. For the sacrifice Sandwich they gave and for the freedom they protect. Luncheon Reasons for Identification upon admission: Tuesday, 1. To obtain a specific military service list for two community Veteran Clubs; Royal Canadian Legion Branch 34 & Army, Navy Air October 15 Force Unit 400. Weekly visits to those who served in the military are conducted by both 11:00 a.m. to organizations. In the past, it has been extremely difficult to locate these patients. 1 p.m.

2. Veteran Affairs – There are many services available to veterans by Veteran Affairs. In some cases, the patient may not In the Vimy have been connected, or required help from Room Veteran Affairs and often do not realize they may be eligible for more help. These patients Price $7.00 regularly may find it beneficial to be re- Come out and enjoy assessed upon leaving hospital. If we know who they are, we can help steer them to these homemade soup, sandwich services and connect them directly with area and dessert. Service Officer from the legion, Peter DeVillers. The Ladies Auxiliary will 3. Legion Branch 34 and ANAF 400, both continue to do lunches the have programs which may assist those who have served in the military. In some cases, a 3rd Tuesday of every month person may not have a K number or be able from October until March to achieve benefits from Veteran Affairs, however they may receive help from the veteran organizations.. It is our mandate to DON’T MISS IT!!! assist. JULY 2019 PAGE 13

Parade of Pipes, Drums and Colour Parties Scottish begins at 12 noon down Mississaga St along Centennial Dr. into Couchiching Beach Park. Festival Festival Pub and food, Children’s Village, Scottish Country and Highland dancers, Pipe he countdown Band performances, entertainment stage, tug is on to the of war, 78th Fraser’s re-enactments, Clan, 42nd Annual craft, vendor booths and massed Pipes and Scottish Drums will be taking place at Couchiching TFestival July 19, 20, 21 Beach Park. There will also be entertainment 2019 honouring Clan at the Orillia Legion. Look for the detailed Buchanan. The festival schedule available closer to the event in print is sponsored by Royal Canadian Legion Orillia and/or by visiting Orillia Scottish Festival on Branch 34. The committee members continue Facebook or scottishfestival.ca. to work hard to offer an unique day of fun for families and individuals to experience Scottish July 21st, Kirkin’ O’ the Tartan at St. Andrew’s culture. Church at 10 am followed by Scottish The chairmen would like to recognize Entertainment taking place at the Orillia the committee volunteers who for the last year Legion at 1:30 pm featuring Tom Leadbeater have been organizing the festival ensuring the success of the event. We would also like to Please buy a button for $2 to support the Orillia recognize all the volunteers outside of the Scottish Festival. If you would like to volunteer committee that have dedicated their time to your time over the weekend of the festival help run events on the weekend leading up to please contact the festival chairmen. and including festival weekend. Thank you to those who supported the Scottish Festival and attended the steak dinner Thank you, in April. Angela Paylor Please join us by attending any of the following Carrie Dunn events: Co - chairmen Orillia Scottish Festival Committee 2019 July 13th, members of the committee will be in attendance at the Orillia Farmer’s Market to Find us on Facebook - Orillia Scottish Festival remind folks of the festival taking place on Website - scottishfestival.ca July 19 - 21, offering buttons for purchase and showcasing the Orillia tartan. After we spend time at the market we will be heading The Take A Vet to Dinner down to the waterfront with Piper Pat Reid at the helm Committee needs new volunteer board July 15th, members of the committee will be holding a flag raising ceremony at 11 am in members front of the Orillia Opera House If you are interested July 19th, Scottish Ceilidh at the Orillia Legion Contact Charles Kelly at featuring Celtic group Ugly Horse. It will be a great night with prizes and light food. Doors 705-327– 5702 open at 6:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased at Or Rick Purcell at the Legion bar and door for $15 705-330-4815

July 20th, Festivities throughout the day! PAGE 14 VET’S GAZETTE

Sir Sam Steele Day n Sunday, June 23 Branch 34 was proud to play host to the reception following a church service and parade whereO Orillia Mayor Steve Clarke declared the day Sir Sam Steele Day. More than 200 people attended the church service at St. James Anglican Church where Steele was baptized. Steele born and raised in Medonte and Orillia, first served with the 35th Simcoe Battalion Infantry (now the Grey And Simcoe Foresters), The North-West Mounted Police (now the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, led The Lord Strathcona (Royal Canadians) Regiment in the Boer War and led the 2nd Canadian Division and District Commander of the British Troops in World War 1. Steele was in the middle of most major events and, milestones of early Canadian history from the Klondike Gold Rush to supervising the building of the CPR and witnessing the treaties on the Prairies.

Kirkin’ of the Tartan

Top: Colour Sergeant Gerry Henry leads the Branch 34 Will be held at colour party. Bottom: The reviewing party including St. Andrew’s General (Ret) John Hayter of the Grey and Simcoe Foresters (on the platform) and Mike Beresford dressed Presbyterian Church as Sir Samuel Steele Sunday, July 21 at 10 a.m. Zone E 5 Fall Convention All are welcome to join this Saturday, September 21 special service to bless the tartan. Branch 619 Warminister

JULY 2019 PAGE 15

Thank you ladies The Branch 34 Ladies Auxiliary were very busy this spring preparing meals for weddings, funeral lunches, birthday parties etc. as well as the celebrations for Sir Sam Steele Day on June 23. Shown above are part of the very hard working crew who were out on the 23rd. From left: Annette Mathias, Sandy Robertson, Bev Brennan, Brenda Watt, Hennie Piccardt, Janet Garrod and Sandra Evans. Thank You Branch 34 Poppy Committee Thank you and the entire Branch 34 for the honour of receiving the 2019 bursary. With your help I will be able to pursue my dream school and career at the University of Last Post Toronto studying economics and international relations. Lest We Forget Best Regards, Anner Yep Hawkins, Flying Officer James Edward, NATO, Ordinary member, Hello! I would like apologize for my absence Branch 34, 88 years old. 03/29/2019 from dinner Wednesday, June12, and to Crawford, Grant Henry, C.P.C , WW II, also thank you in regards to receiving the Ordinary member, Branch 34, 96 years Poppy Award. I was unable to attend due to old. 06/23/2019 having an exam Thursday morning in At the going down of the sun Toronto. It means a lot to receive this award and I am extremely grateful. Thank you very and in the morning much. We Will Remember Them

Best regards, Makaila Coulson. PAGE 16 VET’S GAZETTE

Branch 34 Financial Summary for the twelve months ending May 31, 2019

12 Months ending 12 Months ending May 31, 2019 May 31, 2018 Kitchen revenue $ 7,149 $ 428 Bar revenue 344,006 331,390 Cost of goods sold 167,520 154,409 Gross Bar/Kitchen profit $183,635 $177,409 Gross Profit %age-bar 53.2% 53.5% Gross Profit %age-kitchen 10.0% 0.0%

Committee revenue $38,006 $ 35,808 Committee expenses 36,943 39,017 Committee profit (loss) $ 1,063 $ (3,209)

Revenue-Ways & Means $39,378 $39,822 Expenses-Ways & Means 13,125 11,243 Ways & Means profit $26,253 $28,579

Revenue-Normandy Room $48,400 $51,000 Expenses-Normandy Room ------Normandy profit $48,400 $51,000

Member Fees-net $19,327 $20,033

Other Income $34,982 $24,675 Expenses Building $69,056 $72,318 Payroll 162,360 149,218 Administration 62,032 65,809 Total Expense $293,448 $287,345

Net Profit (loss) $20,212 $11,142

Cash and GICs less payables $16,718 Bingo Bank Account $ 3,700 Nevada Bank Account $ 2,000

JULY 2019 PAGE 17

2. Cash on hand was $80,355. Treasurer’s 3. Accounts payable & reserve liabilities were $63,637 leaving a cash flow excess of Comments $16,718 at May 31, 2019. 4. The Bingo and Nevada bank accounts July 3, 2019 have a balance of $5,700.

Respectively submitted, Financial statements May 31, 2019: Profit & Loss June 1 to May 31, 2019; Brian Robertson 1. Bar sales for the year ended May 31, 2019 were $12,600 more than the year ended May 31, 2018. Branch bar sales are approximately 4% more than last years’ bar sales. Kitchen food sales were $7,149. 2. Bar gross profit for year ended May 31, Don’t Miss the 2019 is 53.2% (53.5% in 2018); Kitchen gross profit is 10.05%. Gross profit for the year to May 31, 2019 is $6,226 more than Steak last year. The kitchen lost $6,417 during its operation. 3. Committee revenue is $4,300 more this year than last year due to the reduction in BBQ’s sports costs of $900, a net revenue increase in regalia of $1,300 and a Scottish throughout the Festival increased net revenue of $2,100. 4. Ways and Means revenue is $2,300 less summer for the year ended May 31, 2019 than for year ended May 31, 2018. 5. Normandy room revenue from the rental July 12, of the Bingo Hall is $2,600 less this year due to decreased Bingo Hall rent of $500/ August 16 and month and increased kitchen rent of $200/ month. September 20 6. Other income is $10,300 more this year than last year resulting mainly from increased donations of $4,600 and Orillia Booster bar net revenue of $5,700. These BBQ’s sell out 7. Expenses for the year to May 31, 2019 are $6,100 more than last year. Wages are fast so $13,100 more than 2018 due to wage increases of $6,000 and kitchen wages of watch for $7,100. 2019 utility costs are $2,900 higher than last year. Repairs and maintenance ticket sales are $8,300 less this year. and get 8. Operations had a profit of $20,212 for the year ended May 31, 2019 as compared to a yours early profit of $11,142 for the year ended May 31, 2018. Balance Sheet-May 31, 2019; 1. Retained earnings at May 31, 2019 were $43,443. PAGE 18 VET’S GAZETTE

Air Cadets guaranteed $300 game and a final jackpot of $1000. he Air Cadets is a youth There is also a Super Jackpot that is $2100 organization for young males and on designated numbers each evening. females from the ages of 12 to 19. The bingo hall has recently introduced a They meet every Tuesday new game, which is a promotional game. Tevening starting in September and ending June of each year. The prize usually is around $300, but has an additional opportunity to receive The Air Cadets meet at the Kubota something new each month. Building, 107 Wyandotte Street, Tuesdays at 7:00. The Bingo Hall took 50 customers to Casino Niagara in May. And there is a draw The Air Cadets is a youth movement for two $25 gift certificates each night for which emphasizes leadership, citizenship, the month of June. and training in aviation subjects. There is a full kitchen with an excellent Each year they have camping selection of small food selections as well as weekends, parades, and competitions in nightly specials with full course meals. various areas such as sports, band, and shooting. The Orillia Air Cadets has a Lots of room for new bingo players. successful pipes and drum band and accepts new trainees each year. There are lots of opportunities to send young boys and girls to summer camp each year. Come to the Senior cadets can qualify to receive their Gliders Pilots License or their Power Private Pilots License, at no cost to them Ceilidh If you know of someone who would benefit from the Air Cadet Program, have Friday, July 19 them call 705-325-9999. 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30) Navy League Vimy Room he Navy League is for younger Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 34 boys and girls, 9 to 12. Enjoy Pipes and Drums, Highland Dancers and They participate in training some traditional Celtic music with Wednesday evenings at ODAS the Celtic group TPark. Of course their training is around boating Ugly Horse and sailing. They also go camping and $15.00 per person participate in parades and competitions. Tickets available at the door or call 705-325-8442 Bingo / Nevada ingos are doing fairly well at the Enjoy a light lunch, cash Orillia Legion. bar, raffle and many Bingos are Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings starting at laughs . B5:30 and ending around 9:30. There are 12 games nightly, with a JULY 2019 PAGE 19

Editorial Comrades, n this issue we have an article about a Quilt of Valour being presented to a veteran. The quilt was lovingly designed and made by Julie Ella Dubeau, Beth Dubeau, Marion Brophy and Linda DeVillers and presented to local veteran Tyler Shepperdson. I was so moved by Tyler’s words of thanks. That something like a Iquilt can bring so much happiness to a man who served our country. Thank you sir for your service Congratulations to new executives of both the branch and the ladies auxiliary. While the branch elects officers for a two year term the auxiliary has elections every year. Our auxiliary has been very busy and continues to help the branch in many ways. In October they will resume having luncheons the third Tuesday of the month. The first will be soup and sandwiches. Who knows what the following months bring — Come out and see what they have to offer. Regardless of what they serve - it is always a wonderful meal. Finally we are getting some warmer weather. Come down to the branch, enjoy the patio and the comradeship. Have a healthy and safe summer Kate Palmer, Editor

Dinner and Dance

Friday, September 6 Dance to the music of everyone’s favourite Charlotte and the Dirty Cowboys ONLY $25.00 PER PERSON WATCH THE BULLETIN BOARDS FOR MORE DETAILS PAGE 20 VET’S GAZETTE

Carleton Place was elected president; Provincial Derek Moore of Mount Forest was elected 1st Vice-President. The three vice Convention presidents are Brian Harris of London, Lynn arly in May Comrades Rick McClellan from Elora and Pam Davidson Purcell, Colin Wackett, Cathy from Gravenhurst. Comrade Pam is Wackett and I attended the 51st District E’s immediate past district biennial convention of The Royal commander and a friend to many of us. It ECanadian Legion’s Ontario Provincial is the first time since 1995 that a member Command in Niagara Falls. of our district has been elected as a The weekend started with the provincial officer. Among the many Provincial Public Speaking contest on reports presented was one from “Operation Saturday. This is the first time that the Service Dogs”, a new initiative of Ontario contest was held in conjunction with the Command. We have partnered with convention and was very well attended. Wounded Warriors to sponsor 10 service The speeches, as always, were amazing. dogs for Ontario veterans. We even got to On Sunday morning a wreath laying see “Chartwell” a service dog who will soon ceremony was held at the First World War be paired with a veteran. President Sharon cenotaph at the bottom of Clifton Hill. This McKeown presented a cheque for was followed by a parade to the Crown $150,000 as part of Ontario Command’s Hotel and Convention Centre ongoing commitment. Glen Reid, a veteran The opening ceremonies were held waiting for a service dog spoke later that afternoon where we heard from passionately about the program and how Diana Abel, the 2017 Silver Cross mother. serious the need is. “I have seen four of Through tears, Mrs. Abel spoke of her son my comrades die due to suicide since Michael David Abel who was killed in a Christmas,” he told the delegates. “Having tragic accident in 1993 while deployed to a service dog is a tool that will allow me Somalia. He was 27 years old. The and my family to have a better life.” During convention was officially opened by the convention another $111,250.00 was Comrade Bruce Julian, first vice-president donated by branches. of Dominion Command. And then the business began. There were 519 accredited delegates at the convention. These delegates carried 748 proxies for a voting strength of 1,267 votes. There were also 31 observers and 21 guests. From Sunday afternoon until Tuesday afternoon we heard reports from all of the standing committee chairmen. Nominations for eight offices were held followed by elections. For those of you who think it took a long time to count the ballots to elect our six executive officers in April - it took 7 hours to elect three vice- presidents. Garry Pond of JULY 2019 PAGE 21

Delegates voted to approve 9 changes to our bylaws that dealt primarily with on-line banking. There were only three resolutions Advice from A that required our attention. Wise Old Man We were also updated on the status of “Operation Leave the Streets Behind” -Keep skunks and bankers at a distance. This program started in 2009 with no -Life is simpler when you plow around the funding. Today it has grown to a multi- stump million dollar program that has seen 714 -A bumble bee is considerably faster than a homeless veterans, 71 of which are female, John Deere tractor. be assisted in 147 towns and cities across Ontario. Almost $99,000.00 was donate by -Words that soak into your ears are branches during the convention. Donations whispered… not yelled. were also made to the Charitable -Meanness don’t jes’ happen overnight. Foundation, the bursary program and the -Forgive your enemies; it messes up their RCEL. heads. In his address to the convention -Do not corner something that you know is Comrade Julian thanked the branch service meaner than you. officers for all of their hard work. He spoke -It don’t take a very big person to carry a about the strategic plan to modernize grudge. infrastructure, increase awareness, improve -You cannot unsay a cruel word. governance and celebrating volunteers. He stressed the importance of moving with the -Every path has a few puddles. times “Let’s honour our past, take glory in -Most of the stuff people worry about ain’t our past, but we can’t live in the past,” he never gonna happen anyway. told delegates. -Remember that silence is sometimes the One of the common threads in best answer. almost all of the reports was the need to -Live a good, honorable life… Then when attract new members and maintain current you get older and think back, you’ll enjoy it ones. a second time. As always, there was a little bit of -Don‘t interfere with somethin’ that ain’t time for socializing. Many great ideas are bothering you none. sometimes exchanged off the convention -Timing has a lot to do with the outcome of floor. It was a long three days and I thank a Rain dance. you for the opportunity to represent our -If you find yourself in a hole, the first thing branch. The next major convention will be the Dominion Convention held in August of to do is stop diggin’. 2020 in Saskatoon. Several branches put -Sometimes you get, and sometimes you in bids for the 2021 provincial convention get got. and the decision is pending. -The biggest troublemaker you’ll probably ever have to deal with, watches you from Yours in comradeship the mirror every mornin’. -Good judgment comes from experience, Kate Palmer and a lotta that comes from bad judgment. -Lettin’ the cat outta the bag is a whole lot Pictured to the left are the Orillia delegates, easier than puttin’ it back in. Colin Wackett, Cathy Wackett, Rick Purcell -If you get to thinkin’ you’re a person of and Kate Palmer (in the back) some influence, try orderin’ somebody else’s dog around.. -Most times, it comes down to common sense. PAGE 22 VET’S GAZETTE

July 2019

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 Happy LA Executive Meat Darts Meeting Meeting and Draws Canada 5pm Euchre 1pm Day

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Meat Darts 1 p.m and Draws 5pm STEAK BBQ 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Bid Euchre Meat Darts Scottish 1 p.m and Draws Euchre 1pm Festival 5pm CEILIDH All day at the 7PM park 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Scottish Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Meat Darts 1 p.m and Draws Festival 5pm Entertainment starts at 1:30 28 29 30 31 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Scottish Festival 1 p.m Scottish Festival JulyJuly 19, 19, 20, 20, 21 21 JULY 2019 PAGE 23 PAGE 23 August 2019

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 Meat Darts Ride for Dad and Draws 5pm May 25

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Civic LA Executive Meat Darts Holiday Meeting Meeting and Draws 5pm Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm 1 p.m 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Meat Darts 1 p.m and Draws 5pm STEAK BBQ 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Meat Darts 1 p.m and Draws 5pm

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Meat Darts 1 p.m and Draws 5pm PAGE 24 VET’S GAZETTE September 2019

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Labour LA Executive Meat Darts Day Meeting Meeting and Draws 5pm Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm 1 p.m DINNER DANCE 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm General Meat Darts Meeting 1 p.m and Draws Dinner 6:30 5pm Meeting 7:30

15 16 17 18 19 20 Meat 21 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Mixed Darts and Zone E5 1 p.m Mens Darts Darts Draws 5pm Convention Ladies Darts Veterans Steak Warminster Dinner BBQ 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm SALT Meat Darts and Draws 1 p.m Mens Darts Mixed 5pm Ladies Darts Darts

29 30 Bid Euchre Dinner and Dance 1 p.m Friday, September 6th with Ladies Darts Charlotte and the Dirty Cowboys JULY 2019 PAGE 25 October 2019

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 1 2 3 4 5 LA Executive Mixed Meat Darts Meeting Meeting Darts and Draws 5pm Euchre 1pm Mens Darts 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm General Mixed Meat Darts Meeting 1 p.m Mens Darts Darts and Draws Dinner 6:30 5pm Ladies Darts Meeting 7:30

13 14 15 LA 16 17 18 19 Happy Soup and Mixed Meat Darts Thanksgiving Sandwich and Draws Darts Euchre 1pm 5pm Bid Euchre 1 p.m Mens Darts

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm SALT Meat Darts and Draws 1 p.m Mens Darts Mixed 5pm Ladies Darts Darts

27 28 29 30 31 Bid Euchre Euchre 1pm Mixed 1 p.m Mens Darts Darts Ladies Darts

42nd Annual Orillia Scottish Festival Honouring Clan Buchanan July 19, 20, 21 2019

Friday July 19 Celtic Ceilidh featuring Celtic group Ugly Horse, Pipes and Drums, Highland dancers, Storyteller, prizes, light food 7 pm (doors open 6:30) Orillia Legion Branch 34 $15/person (get tickets at the Legion Bar and door)

Saturday July 20 Festivities throughout the day: Parade of Pipes, Drums and Colour Parties Festival Pub and food, Children’s Village, Scottish Country and Highland dancers, Pipe Band performances, Entertainment stage, Tug of War, 78th Fraser’s Re-enactments, Clan, craft, vendor booths, Massed Pipes and Drums

Sunday July 21 Scottish Entertainment featuring Tom Leadbeater, Pipes and Drums, Highland dancers 1:30 pm Orillia Legion Branch 34

For more details: Orillia Scottish Festival on facebook and www.scottishfestival.ca

Buy a festival button $2