Auction Shots 4-5 Volunteer Service Awards 5-8 SOME Above and Beyond 8-9 St. Michael’s Speedsters 13 Beautiful and Unique Barn 14-15 That Time Again 20 Candids 19-20 Thank You, Joan 11 OF THE Coming Events Calendar 20 Thank You! Thank you! Thank You! 2-3 Final Resting Place 10-11 Thompson Memorial Park Committee 9-10 STUFF Gold Medal Athlete 12-13 Unique Local Art Found at Yard Sale 15-18 Guinness Record Attempt 15 Vittoria’s New Firehall 5-7 INSIDE Local Legends 18 Vittoria Women’s Institute Meeting 11-12

NO. 25 – SUMMER 2009 • PUBLISHED AT VITTORIA, ONTARIO (519) 426-0234

The Vittoria Booster The Vittoria Booster Newsletter is published twice a year by The Vittoria & District Foundation for its Members and Supporters. website: http://www.vittoria.on.ca e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

A n before a person’s name indicates that he or she is a member of The Vittoria & District Foundation. Milestone Anniversaries Celebrated

nEleanor and nWalter Cole, 50 years on January 31 In Memoriam Carolyn and Gordon Walsh, 50 years on February 7 Jean and Alan May, 60 years on February 19 nFrances and nAlan Winter, 55 years on April 14 Bernie Whalen, æ 80, on January 12 Signa Pepper, æ 91, on January 15 “MORE THAN 60” CLUB William Keith Banfield, æ 84, on January 19 nHoward E. and Lois McCall, 62 years on March 6 L. Jane (Jelsma) Devries, æ 59, on January 24 “Neil” Porter, æ 91, on February 4 Reinhold Frederick Schlecht, æ 92, on February 6 Milestone Birthdays Celebrated Joseph Keller Sr., æ 84, on February 7 Sharon (Lampman) Roberts, æ 67, on February 23 Ronald Flint, æ 71, on March 10 nCalvin McDougall, 75 on January 8 Mackenzie Grace Hele, newborn, on March 19 Lorraine Burke, 90 on January 9 Anne (Bahula) Weber, æ 72, on March 29 nBetty Egerde, 75 on January 19 Barry Randolph Tiffin, æ 73, on April 3 nJohn Dennis, 75 on January 26 Mary Ludwig, æ 89, on April 3 nKeith Johnstone, 75 on March 10 Evelyn Marguerite (Engell) Lloyd, æ 91, on April 4 nRay Waldick, 80 on March 17 Jane Anne (Oakes) Freeman, æ 66, on April 23 nKathleen Lloyd, 95 on April 12 William Francis Jewell “Ben” Bezzo, æ 76, on May 6 Alex Skinner, 85 on April 26 Neil VanElsacker, æ 101, on May 25 nBeverly Smith-Walker, 75 on April 29 Clara Bertha (Bowyer nee Townsend) Pow, æ 91, on nMarion Chadwick, 90 on May 6 June 3 nDorothy VanGroningen, 75 on May 14 Helen Rose (Steers) Alward, æ 76, on June 5 nTom Drayson, 75 on May 17 nMarion Joan (Roberts) Robinson, æ 63, on June 9 Ruth Chadwick, 85 on May 17 Gordon Thomas Oakes, æ 60, on June 8 nStacey Dutton, 75 on June 14 Roger John Marsden, æ 52, on June 11 nFrances Engell, 75 on June 23 Allan Harold Howey, æ 77, on June 12 nRobert Riley, 75 on June 28 Anthony Pleli, æ 86, on June 23 “OVER 90” CLUB nAda Stenclik, 94 on January 10 “ABOVE AND BEYOND” RECOGNITION nLaura Snow, 92 on January 17 If you know of, or have, some very helpful neighbour who Audrey Bingleman, 96 on April 15 regularly performs acts of random kindness for others, and goes “Above and Beyond” (see pages 8 & 9), please Minnie Cullimore, 91 on April 19 send us their name and a list of their accomplishments nAudrey Tavender, 92 on May 3 and tell us why you think they qualify for an “Above and Beyond” recognition in a future Vittoria Booster.

-1- Thank You! Thank You! Thank You!

Ken Heaman and Allan Leighton Sincere Thanks to all 2009 Margaret Hicks Auction Contributors Gordon Hill (of Cardinal Glass Studio) n (About 120 Individuals, Families or Businesses) JJL Events Inc. ( Melynda Norman-Lee) nJoan and nKeith Johnstone n Friends of The Vittoria & District Foundation (Anonymous) Jean Karges Kernal Peanuts (nNancy and nErnie Racz) nBrenda and nLarry Assel Knechtel’s n Sharon Atkinson James Kudelka of the Good Bread Company n nAlex Banyasz Regina Lambert n n nPat Barker Rose and Fred Ludwig n Cindy and nPaul Beischlag John Luke n n n Bernhaven (Bernie Wesseling) M&M Meat Shops ( Stella and Joe Keller) n nMarian and nRon Bezzo Marion Macaulay n Rob Blake Oni Maclachlan n nPeter Bosma R.E. Mann Brokers Ltd. ( Ron Mann) n nBradfield Monuments & Garden Centre (Melody and Jack Gail Marr Bradfield) Art Martin n Chad's Welding (nDoug Chadwick) Ruth Martin n nJackie Chadwick Bob Mattice and Eugene Howden Driveway Sealing n nCherwaty’s (nTeresa and nDon Wittig) Louise and Bruce McCann n nJames Christison Calvin McDougall Ed Chapple Sheelagh McFarlane n Church’s Flooring (nGavin Church and Kathy Johnson) June Miller n The Cider Keg (nJoan and nTom Haskett and nCheryl Norah Moore Peck) Norfolk Agricultural Society n nRuth and nJohn Clayton Joan and David Norman nHelen Colombus Carol and Allan Payne n n nDiane and nJohn Cooper Cheryl and Scott Peck Cooper Tyme Real Estate Brokerage (nBrenda Cooper and Don Petker n n nDan Koluk) Pine Valley Golf Club ( Linda and John Hofgraff) n n County Corks (Jim Dunn) Phyllis and Willy Pollet nMichele and nRick Crandall Chiropractic Centre (Dr. Shawn Suprun) nMaebelle and nDoug Cruickshank Port Dover Health & Fitness Centre (Aron Suprun) n n nPam and nRoger Cruickshank Jr. Lois and Ken Porteous n nTwila and nRoger Cruickshank Judy and Pete Porter n Jassen Cullimore Randy Pressey n Karen Culver Elizabeth and Bill Price n n nSusan and nGeorge Davidson Nancy Racz and Ginger Stanley nPatti Dobias and Tracey Frystak of First Stop Barber Shop Regional Auto Glass n nCharlotte and nJohn Donaldson Mary and Neil Rutherford nVirginia and nTom Drayson Sally’s Bakery (Sally MacDonald) Marjorie and Frank Duck Scholten’s Agriturf Equipment Services Ltd. nDoris and nStacey Dutton Brad Schott of Leon’s Furniture Dave Eberly of LegendsNorth Sports Monica and Dave Scott n nKirk Farrish of BPW Distributors Marion Sherman n n nDon Fort Jim and Irene Simmons n n Liz Gammage Gertrude and Clair Smith n nSandy Gedye Beverly Smith-Walker n Carol Gerrett of Fannie Beth Studio Ginger Stanley n nVic Gibbons of the Olde Towne Gallery Ada Stenclik n Bob Gilbertson Rosemarie Stewart n Alec Godden Evelyn Stone nBetty and nHoward Goode S.M.B. Antiques (Sandra and Ross Brown) n Gram’s Pantry (Terra, Shondra, nTerri and nEd Stenclik) Kate Stratford (of Marlin Travel) n n Granny’s Best Strawberry Products (nGary Cooper and Strawberry Tyme Farms ( Gary and John Cooper) nTom Haskett) Sun Tan Bar & Grill (Mabel and Dick Assel) Great Lakes Physiotherapy (Jeff Scott) Doug Trafford n Halmo Jewellers (Cheryl and Mark Halmo) Carol Tupper nVicki Harris of Vineyards Estate Wines Turkey Point Hotel (Mabel and Dick Assel) nTom Haskett and nGary Cooper Turkstra Lumber n nTracy Haskett Linda Vancso -2- Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! nDorothy VanGroningen Randy Lambert Jackie VanLoon nRegina Lambert Vintage Vittoria Fabrication (Jessie Grummett and nTom nOni Maclachlan Haskett) nSandra Maxwell Vittoria Lamport Club nHugh McArthur Vittoria Lioness and Vittoria Lions nBarb Melville Vittoria M.A.F.I.A. nJim Melville Vittoria Women’s Institute nJune Miller Barb Waldick nJoan Norman Brent Waldick nMelynda Norman-Lee nJim Wies nYvonne Pursley Marian With nErnie Racz Tillie Wright nNancy Racz Helen Young nJoan Robinson Yours to Please Catering (Neeltie Arnott) nMarion Sherman nClair Smith Lyle Smith nGinger Stanley Sincere Thanks also to all 2009 nLarry Stanley Auction Volunteers nEvelyn Stone (About 70 Individuals) nLinda Vancso nBrenda Assel Vittoria Guides & Sparks Neeltie Arnott Barb Waldick nLarry Assel Chase Waldick nAlex Banyasz nRay Waldick nMarian Bezzo nTom Waldick nRon Bezzo Judy Walters Barb Boyko nDolores Winter nWarren Burger nLloyd Winter nLarry Cable Dakota Chadwick n Doug Chadwick THANK YOU TO ALL CONTRIBUTORS n Jackie Chadwick of photographs and articles used in this newsletter. n John “Tine” Chadwick Besides those already credited, this would include nGavin Church Jackie Chadwick (W.I.), Doug Cruickshank, nJohn Clayton n n nRuth Clayton nJohn Donaldson, and nFrances Winter. Thanks to nHelen Colombus nLarry Cable for organizing the crew of volunteers nBrenda Cooper to collate, stuff and distribute the Boosters Ð Dalton Cooper (probably nMarian Bezzo, nRon Bezzo, nHelen nGary Cooper Colombus, nJohn Donaldson, Sheelagh McFarlane, Mason Cooper nMary Rutherford, nMarion Sherman, and a few nLucas Crandall others but I don’t know who they will be). nShay Crandall nDoug Cruickshank nPam Cruickshank Written by Brett, the 90 year-old author of The Cleveland nRoger Cruickshank Jr. Plain Dealer: n Roger Cruickshank Sr. "To celebrate growing older, I wrote down the 45 lessons nTwila Cruickshank life has taught me. Here are the first 10.” nGeorge Davidson nSusan Davidson 1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good. nCharlotte Donaldson 2. When in doubt, just take the next small step. nJohn Donaldson 3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. n 4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Virginia Drayson Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch. nSandy Gedye 5. Pay off your credit cards every month. Jessie Grummett 6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to nTom Haskett disagree. Joanna Holman 7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone. Faye Jarvis 8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it. nJoan Johnstone 9. Save for retirement starting with your first pay check. nKeith Johnstone 10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile. nJean Karges -3- Auction Shots

The work of many skilled artisans and crafters is donated to our Auction every year. This realistic bluejay was carved by veteran carver Max Chute.

This year, renowned sculptor and artist Alec Godden generously donated this exquisite stainless steel Blue Heron sculpture. Alec’s widely-admired, finely-detailed, unique artistic sculptures continue to become more valuable with each new creation. Many thanks, Alec!

Four members of Norfolk County Council, including Mayor Dennis Travale and Ward 4 Councillor Jim Oliver attended The Vittoria & District Foundation’s Annual Spaghetti Dinner & Auction in March.

One of the featured items at our 2009 Auction was this framed Vic Gibbons Alec Godden was kept busy throughout the evening, answering questions Original oil painting, “Warbling Vireo”, generously donated by the artist, who and conversing with fans of his work. also donated a framed print. Thank you, Vic! -4- More Auction Shots ... and the OVSA

Would you buy a used car from these guys? Well, it really doesn’t matter, because we don’t sell any used cars at our Auction. But you know what? If someone wanted to donate a new car or a classic vehicle to The Vittoria & District Foundation, you can bet that these gents would sure be delighted to sell it to the highest bidder. From the left, Vittoria Boosters Chairman Tom Haskett and Auctioneer Warren Burger engage in a little “Tomfoolery”, while Auctioneers Lyle Smith and Tom Waldick stand patiently by, ready to auction off the first item. The 2009 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards at the VDCC

The Vittoria & District Foundation nominated 6 individuals to receive Ontario Volunteer Service Awards at a ceremony in the Vittoria & District Community Centre on May 19, 2009. Events Chairman nLarry Cable was in charge of the nominations and nominated the following members: nBrenda Assel – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Foundation nRoger Cruickshank – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Foundation nTwila Cruickshank – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Foundation nVirginia Drayson – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Foundation More than spaghetti and meatballs are served at the Annual nMarion Sherman – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Spaghetti Dinner & Auction – garlic bread, a great selection of Foundation salads, and sumptuous desserts like this decadent chocolate cake. nLinda Vancso – 10 Year Award – Vittoria & District Foundation

The easiest way to make your old car run better, In addition to the six volunteers listed above, the is to check the prices of a new car. following Vittoria district residents and volunteers for other Vittoria district organizations were also recognized and received OVS Awards:

-5- Ontario Volunteer Service Awards (OVSA)

200 volunteers and guests helped close the formal ceremonies by rising for a standing ovation for five 50-year volunteers, as the 2009 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards were presented to Norfolk and Haldimand recipients on May 19 at the VDCC. The Events Committee of The Vittoria & District Foundation hosted the celebration which concluded with a delicious light reception. nBetty Bosma – 25 Year Award – Vittoria Women's Institute Our “Love Affair” with the nLucas Crandall – Youth Award – Vittoria Women's Institute nClair Smith – 15 Year Award – Vittoria Women's Institute OVSA (Ontario Volunteer nGertrude Smith – 15 Year Award – Vittoria Women's Service Awards) Institute – Submitted as an article by Roger Cruickshank in the Norfolk Hub nJane Turnecliff – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Women's Although my own experience with the Ontario Volunteer Institute Service Awards dates back to the 1980s, The Vittoria & nRoger Cruickshank – 30 Year Award – Woodhouse United District Foundation’s involvement began in 2000. Church Early that year, I received a telephone call from a nice nTwila Cruickshank – 30 Year Award – Woodhouse United lady from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship, Culture and Church Recreation. Apparently she had been given my name as a Michele Hitchon – 5 Year Award – Woodhouse United person who might be able to give her information about Church potential caterers for a reception at their upcoming Awards Art Robertson – 5 Year Award – Woodhouse United Church presentation event for the “Brantford Region” which included Shirley Robertson – 5 Year Award – Woodhouse United Haldimand and Norfolk. Church During our conversation, I enquired where the Awards nVirginia Drayson – 20 Year Award – Norview Lodge night was being held. It turned out that a number of venues nDr. James Cruise – 20 Year Award – Grace United were under consideration within the three counties, but no Church, Port Dover definite site had been selected. I asked if The Vittoria & Verna Dorish – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport Seniors District Community Centre was one of the destinations being Club considered. Sadly, she had not even heard of the VDCC. Walter Glynn – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport Seniors I proceeded to give her a bit of its history, and tell her Club what a wonderful facility it is, and I guess her curiosity was Doris Gurney – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport Seniors piqued. When I told her our building was wheelchair Club accessible, she asked if there was a ramp up to the stage. I John Gurney – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport Seniors replied that there was not, but if we were selected to host Club their event, I would certainly guarantee that there would be a Freda Manseeldt – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport ramp in place in time for their ceremony. Seniors Club She promised to get back to me, and within hours, she Clara Post – 10 Year Award – Vittoria Lamport Seniors Club did, confirming the Ministry’s decision to come here. In the Darryl Evans – 25 Year Award – Norfolk County Agricultural meantime, I had called nLarry Cable, the Events Chairman Society (Norfolk County Fair) of the V&DF, who assured me that he and his volunteers -6- More About the OVSA would be delighted and honoured to host the light reception trays of veggies, fruit, cheese and finger food which always follows the presentation of Awards. desserts await, along with coffee, punch, water and Anyone who knows Larry and his merry crew of locally-grown and packed sparkling ciders. volunteers will not be surprised that the Awards folks from 11. The formal program is complete, so folks may mingle the Ministry in Toronto were not only most impressed, but and schmooze as long as they like. actually overwhelmed and delighted by the down-home country welcome, co-operation and assistance they I would rather nominate someone for an award than received. They assured us they would return in 2001, and receive one myself. My wish is that other organizations in they did. and around Vittoria would nominate some of their great We were set to host again in 2002, but a Public Service volunteers. Local organizations who have a number of strike in the spring lasted several weeks, and required that volunteers include the Donnybrook Fair Board; the the Awards ceremonies be compressed into fewer nights, so Thompson Memorial Park Committee; the Vittoria & District the many nominees from this area had to travel to Guelph to Community Centre Committee; the Vittoria District Minor pick up their awards. Again in 2003, award winners from our Sports Association; the Vittoria Firefighters Association; the area had to take a trip, this time to Bingeman Park in Vittoria Lamport Club; the Vittoria Lions Club; the Vittoria Kitchener-Waterloo, to pick up their awards. Lioness Club; the Vittoria Women’s Institute and a number of In 2004, we were delighted to receive word that the V&DF Churches. No doubt there are others I have inadvertently would again be invited to host the Awards Ceremonies at the missed, or don’t know about. VDCC, and once again Larry and his helpers made the Awards team feel right at home. And every year since, we About the Ontario Volunteer Service have hosted the ceremonies for between 100 and 150 Awards (from the MCI Website) recipients (plus their guests) from Haldimand and Norfolk. The Awards team leader says they’ll “see us again next What are the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards? year”, and we certainly look forward to that! The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards honour the The Vittoria & District Foundation and its Boosters thousands of people who generously contribute their time as Committee always deems it an honour, a privilege and a volunteers across Ontario. These awards are an important pleasure to host the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards way to recognize volunteers who have provided service over many years. The procedure: Who are the award recipients? 1. Each nominee is allowed to invite one guest. Volunteers play a very important role in our quality of life. 2. On arrival at the VDCC, each nominee receives 2 They help to build safe, caring and vital communities, and name tags specifying his or her name, number of donate their time to help others. In fact, Ontarians donate years served, and the name of the organization his or more than five million hours of their time each year to her volunteer service was for. One name tag is to be organizations and communities across the province. worn. The other tag is handed to the announcer Who can receive this award? on-stage (when the time comes). The Volunteer Service awards are given to people who 3. Nominees and their guests then find a seat and look volunteer their time to a single organization for several over the program (which contains a list of all years. nominees), or just visit or schmooze until the About the nominees… scheduled starting time of 7:30 pm. Youth nominees: 4. O Canada. • Must be under 24 years old and have volunteered 5. Greetings from the Ministry of Citizenship and with one group for at least 2 consecutive years. Immigration. Adult nominees: 6. Greetings from the MPP. • Must have volunteered with one group for at least 5 7. Guest Speaker. consecutive years 8. Presentation of Awards – one member of the team • 9 levels are awarded – at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30+, 40+, directs recipients to the east end of the stage, 50+ and 60+ years of continuous service maintaining a steady flow. The team leader and Adult and Youth nominees: announcer take the second name tag and introduce • Must not have received payment for their volunteer each nominee as he or she is congratulated and work presented with the appropriate pin by the MPP, • Must be active beyond simple membership in an assisted by the fourth team member. Recipients organization descend the ramp at the west end of the stage and • Must not have performed the services as part of their return to their seats. regular business or professional duties. 9. When all recipients have been introduced and How are recipients selected? presented, the Awards team leader then asks all Recipients are first nominated by their organizations. The 5-year volunteers to stand and be applauded once Ministry then ensures the information sent about nominees is more, followed by the 10-year group, etc. The group accurate, and that the nominees are eligible for an award. A of 50-plus-years volunteers is allowed to remain letter is sent to confirm that the nomination has been seated while everyone else gives them a standing reviewed and accepted. ovation. How are the awards presented? 10. Everyone adjourns to the reception tables where Recipients are awarded pins and personal certificates at -7- More OVSA ... and “Above and Beyond” special ceremonies across Ontario. Different pins and assistance ... it is often a much-needed lifeline. certificates honour a variety of years of service. Each The vulnerable and the disadvantaged know they recipient is invited with a guest. Every organization can always rely upon volunteers to lessen their sense nominating a recipient is also invited to bring two of isolation, to offer advice and support, and to provide representatives to the award ceremony. practical help. What does the award symbolize? Yes, Volunteering is important. On a community The Volunteer Service Award is a stylized Trillium. The level, it can contribute to the regeneration and renewal Trillium is the official flower of Ontario. of an entire area. It can help to create vibrant, Can I nominate someone? energized, and safe communities. Only organizations can enter nominations for the But volunteering is also invaluable on an individual Volunteer Service Awards. Any organization that has been level. providing service for five years or more can nominate up to We all know some man or some woman right in our seven volunteers. For example, nominations are received own neighbourhood, who chooses not to join any from: formal clubs or organizations, but who is, on their own, • Not-for-profit and non-profit organizations and forever performing random acts of kindness for their associations neighbours. • Co-operatives Wouldn’t it be wonderful if there could be a “good • Boards and commissions neighbour” award created, so that in every • Businesses neighbourhood in Ontario one or more of these • Government ministries that recruit volunteers “private volunteers” could be recognized, and • Arts, educational and correctional institutions and honoured, and thanked, for their individual schools contributions to a better society. • Municipalities To all of you volunteers here tonight – for your time • Long-term care homes and hospitals and your energy, for your kindness and your generosity, for giving freely of your skills, we thank The Keynote Address you. (from the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards at the When the roll is called up yonder ... you’ll be there! Vittoria & District Community Centre on May 19, 2009) Now, I’m just a simple country boy, so when the nice young lady asked, if I would be the community Welcome to Vittoria ... the home of 500 really nice keynote speaker, I asked her to explain to me what a people ... and one old grouch! community keynote speaker was expected to do. Now, you may be asking yourself ... “Why would the These weren’t her exact words, but her message organizers of tonight’s program completely ignore the was clear, “Talk for 3 minutes ... then shut up and sit 500 nice people of Vittoria ... and select the one old down!” grouch to speak to us?” I thought ... “I can do that!” Well, it’s a complete mystery to me, too ... but ... Thank you, Eva, for inviting me to speak, I consider here I am! it an honour and a privilege to have been asked. One Sunday, several years ago, a minister at our little country church preached a sermon with the title, Another “Above and Beyond” “Improve the World ... Start with Yourself”. I must confess, I don’t recall many details of that Community Volunteer and sermon, but I do recall thinking ... ‘What an intriguing Good Neighbour – Larry Cable concept ... “Improve the World ... Start with Yourself”' For several years, nLarry Cable has been one of the And whether you volunteers realize it or not, that’s most enthusiastic community volunteers imaginable, exactly what each of you has been doing. constantly promoting Vittoria and its many positive features It is very important for society to show all of you and activities. volunteers that your contributions really are His present “headquarters” is the Vittoria Town Hall, appreciated ... and really are praiseworthy. where he is the Manager/Custodian. Since the building was And these Award ceremonies are a wonderful way renovated, beginning in 2000, and largely through Larry’s of allowing the people of Ontario an opportunity to efforts, the Town Hall is in demand more than ever, having nominate dedicated local volunteers for an award ... to hosted 139 rentals or “usages” in 2008, with approximately recognize the efforts and achievements of those who 4,400 people visiting the facility. For the many hours he so generously dedicate their time, and energy, and spends at the Hall, he receives the princely sum of $3.00 per talents, to helping others. day. The real power of volunteering is that it is something He is the consummate salesman when it comes to that anyone can do ... no matter what age you are, or Vittoria, its organizations and activities. A qualified chef in his where you come from, or how much you earn, or what own right, Larry is well-known for providing simple “extra religious or cultural background you belong to. touches” which enhance the ambience at many events, Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity that is open whether he is catering, or merely renting the Hall. to us all. Each one of us has some gift, or talent, or Larry loves being of service to his community, and gives skill that we can use to help others. most generously of his time. He was one of the organizers of For many of those on the receiving end of volunteer the Vittoria Bicentennial from the very start, and served as -8- More “Above and Beyond” ... and TMPC Update

Events Chairman throughout. to a reasonable level, ending the year’s activities with an He is a Founding Trustee of The Vittoria & District incredible surplus, despite the many costs involved. He Foundation, a Vittoria Booster, and Chairman for Special served as the Chairman of three Great Vittoria District Events such as hosting the Ontario Volunteer Service Pickup Raffles. Awards ceremonies. On behalf of The Foundation, Larry He was Founding Chairman of The Vittoria & District organizes two bus trips each year, with the coach always Foundation, and served six terms as Chairman. He is a filled to capacity. valued member of the Vittoria Boosters. Jim is generous with He is a wonderful organizer of volunteers, both adult and his time and his talents, and can be counted on to contribute student. He constantly mentors his student volunteers, and some interesting item to local fundraising auctions. for those who are receptive, his influence can be Jim has earned many accolades for his service as life-changing. Manager/Custodian of the busy Vittoria & District Community He is also President of the Vittoria Lamport Seniors Club. Centre. Larry’s wife nMary loves tending their sprawling Besides his involvement in a multitude of community Cablegardens that has become one of Vittoria’s showplaces. projects, Jim also enjoys fishing and going to yard sales, as Larry and Mary welcome garden enthusiasts and wedding well as family activities with his wife nBarb and son Jamie. groups who drop by to pose against the flowerbeds, gazebos The skills Jim has developed through his extensive and water features. experience in positions of responsibility in community Whenever he drops in for a brief visit, his parting words organizations, combined with his strong work ethic and always are, “Call me if you need me”. And he really means it! enthusiasm make him another valuable asset and a good Larry certainly is an “Above and Beyond” community neighbour, going well “Above and Beyond” for our volunteer. community. Another “Above and Beyond” Thompson Memorial Park Community Volunteer and Committee active for more Good Neighbour – Jim Melville than 35 years nJim Melville was born in Simcoe in 1944 and is a The Thompson Memorial Park Committee (TMPC) held lifelong Vittoria resident. He was educated at Vittoria Public its annual cleanup and maintenance sweep of the Vittoria School and Simcoe High School. He is a prime example of sportspark areas on Saturday, April 25. the ultimate Vittoria volunteer, rising “Above and Beyond” the A good turnout of members assisted by a few energetic call of duty. student volunteers and community friends did a fine job of As a youth and young adult, Jim participated at a gathering up and disposing of wagon loads of debris which competitive level in hockey and fastball. His interest in sports always seems to accumulate over the winter. led him to become a member of the Charlotteville Minor The TMPC was formed more than 35 years ago as a Sports Association, and a Founding Member and former committee of the Council of Charlotteville Township, with Coach of Vittoria Oldtimers Fastball League. twelve members. The original purpose of the Committee was He is an active member of the Thompson Memorial Park to build a new ball diamond for fastball in Vittoria. Over the Committee with more than 35 years service, including terms years, the responsibilities of the Committee have expanded as Chairman and Co-ordinator of Special Events. and membership has grown to more than 25 members. Five Jim served the community as a volunteer firefighter for of the original 12 members still actively participate in the more than 35 years, most of them as Fire Chief. He served capital and maintenance projects undertaken by the as President of the Vittoria Firefighters Association and the Committee, which is now a Committee of Norfolk County Haldimand-Norfolk Mutual Aid Association and he attended Council. many Firefighters' Training Programs so he could give the Additional facilities which are now the responsibility of the area the best fire protection possible. He was a member of Committee, in partnership with Norfolk County, include a the Ontario Fire Chiefs Association. second ball diamond which could be converted to a soccer He was an active member of the Steering Committee and field if needed; a multi-purpose concrete pad used at Building Committee for Vittoria & District Community Centre different times for tennis, road hockey, basketball, for 5 years and presently sits on the VDCC Building skateboarding etc.; a children’s playpark area; a picnic Management and Finance Committee, as he has for 21 pavilion with tables; a concession booth with washrooms; years. two storage buildings; an Electronic scoreboard and scorer’s Jim is a member of the Vittoria Lions Club, having served booth; a passive park area; and a quantity of miscellaneous as President, Treasurer, Assistant Secretary and Scout recreation and maintenance equipment. The TMPC also has Liaison Officer. a long-standing and continuing interest in the oversight of 1993 and 1994 was an especially auspicious period for the Vittoria & District Community Centre. Jim - he was Fire Chief, President of the Lions Club, and Following the park cleanup, the TMPC held its 2009 Chairman of the Thompson Memorial Park Committee - all at Annual Meeting. The following Executive Officers were the same time - and provided exceptional leadership to all confirmed: Chairman - nTom Haskett; Secretary - nFred three of these fine service organizations. Ludwig; Treasurer - nRoger Cruickshank; Directors - nJack Jim did a superb job as Chairman of the Finance Bingleman, nJim Melville, Bob VanHooren. Committee for the Vittoria Bicentennial, containing expenses Tom Haskett thanked all of the workers, particularly the

-9- Our Final Resting Place! student volunteers, some of whom have surpassed the spaces the size of a bus station locker, that run in rows one volunteer hours required for graduation, but continue to on top of the other. They are covered over with a plaque volunteer, anyway. He also expressed thanks to Doug onto which is engraved the person's name and date of Oakes and nBrian Hodgson who volunteered many chilly death. Each niche can hold two urns. hours and did a wonderful job making natural ice on the Greenwood Cemetery in Waterford built a grey-and-black outdoor rink this past winter. granite columbarium with 48 niches last June at a cost of The Committee is still trying to determine the most $17,000. It sits at the west end of the cemetery surrounded cost-effective application available to resurface and upgrade by benches and bushes. the 30-year-old multi-purpose pad. Other upcoming projects So far, there have been two interments. are currently being investigated and assessed by the “It's a sign of the times,” Joyce Hall, president of the Executive Officers, in co-operation with the Community Waterford Greenwood Cemetery Corporation, said of the Services Department of Norfolk County. trend to cremation. “It's convenient and less expensive. You don't have to be buried right away.” Final Resting Place The price for a niche in Waterford is $1,380 compared to – Adapted from an article by Daniel Pearce in the Times-Reformer $600 for a grave. But with a grave you have the added Officials look to the future for Norfolk cemeteries expense of a tombstone. With an aging population, rural communities like Norfolk More land for burials, said Joyce, “is not something we face potential shortages in the future when it comes to are in a hurry for.” burying the dead. The section around the columbarium is still open for As baby boomers move into retirement and beyond, and graves. our county turns greyer as it becomes more of a retirement Land that sits to the northeast in a farmer's field could be community, the number of burials is expected to soar locally. available in the future if necessary. If and when that land is To make sure there's enough room in the 111 cemeteries developed for, say, housing, the cemetery would apply to across the county, officials at town hall are surveying the become part of its greenspace. land available and doing some calculations. For county officials, the most pressing concern is the “We are looking beyond the 10-, 15-, 50-year mark,” said Bayview Cemetery in Port Rowan. The lakeside community Steve Scheers, Norfolk's superintendent of forestry and is expanding mainly with retirees coming to its “villages” cemeteries. development. The cemetery meanwhile is landlocked by the The work is actually more complicated than that. lake. Bird Studies Canada, and . Of those 111 cemeteries, Norfolk is the official owner of The county will survey Bayview this summer and start to 39. Spread around the countryside next to back roads and at plan for the day it is filled. the backs of farmer fields are all kinds of small cemeteries, “We're surveying what capacity the land has down there some forgotten about and abandoned, others still belonging and what the availability is for private partners (to help us),” to the descendants of the county's earliest settlers. said Steve Scheers. These private cemeteries are increasingly being handed over to the municipality to run. So the county may have even Cemeteries in the Vittoria more cemeteries on its books in the future — a blessing when it comes to space but a drawback when it comes to district maintenance. ACTIVE These smaller cemeteries have to be cleaned up, Normandale Cemetery - Normandale Cemetery Board - headstones repaired or rearranged, and the names of the Peter Mauthe - 519-426-8750 dead recorded on computer. St. John’s Anglican Cemetery - St. John’s Anglican As this work gets caught up, the county is focusing more Cemetery Board - Fred Judd - 519-426-4461 on planning for the future, Steve said. Vittoria Baptist Cemetery - Vittoria Baptist Cemetery Will there be a problem with having enough land to bury Board - nMarian Bezzo - 519-426-0505 the dead? Vittoria United Church Cemetery - Vittoria United At this point, Steve said, it doesn't appear so, but county Cemetery Board - Bill Walsh - 519-426- officials are doing due diligence to keep it that way. Walsh United Church Cemetery - Walsh United The west end of Oakwood Cemetery in Simcoe, for Cemetery Board - nCraig Smith - 519-426-1758 example, was recently tiled and drained to make it usable for Woodhouse United Church Cemetery - Woodhouse burials, he said. And another 1,200 graves were just opened United Cemetery Board - nJim Tiller - 519-426-1872 up in Division 'H' of the cemetery. Another thing to consider is the impact of the growing INACTIVE trend toward cremation. About 45 per cent of all Canadians Walsh Baptist Cemetery - Norfolk County - Community are opting to be turned into ash at death. Services - 519-426-5999 An urn containing human remains takes up much less space than a coffin being buried under the ground. Multiple ABANDONED/INACTIVE ON PRIVATE urns can be put into a grave meant for two. PROPERTY Cremation also provides the option for cemeteries to build Birdsell Cemetery - Abandoned - Community Services - above ground graves. Known as columbariums, these 519-426-5999 structures consist of multiple “niches,” square storage -10- Thank you. Joan ... and W.I. News

Fisher/Montrose Cemetery - Abandoned - Community strong, and her marathon Services - 519-426-5999 complete. McCall/Fairchild (Boughner) - Abandoned - Community Cancer didn't beat Joan Services - 519-426-5999 ... She beat it ... She ran her Memorial Anglican Cemetery - Abandoned - race ... She made so many Community Services - 519-426-5999 of our lives better ... She Mitchell Burying Ground Cemetery - Abandoned - looked upon us and gave us Community Services - 519-426-5999 hope in all that we do ... She Tisdale Cemetery - Abandoned - Community Services - made us smile. 519-426-5999 Our eyes opened a little Walsh Family Cemetery - Abandoned - Community wider when she was present, Services - 519-426-5999 her race was one we all got to participate in and we all became better people for it. Thank you, Joan nJoan Robinson I am going to miss Joan – Adapted from an article by Dave Scott in the Norfolk Hub A few weeks back my daughter had her public school ... But I know every time we track meet. She enjoys the distance runs and we sat one all go for a jog or workout ... She will be right there ... quietly afternoon and talked about the long races. We discussed encouraging us to run our own race, to finish what we start, issues like setting a pace, stretching her stride, relaxing her to help others, and never give up! breathing and gearing up to a higher pace level when the time was right ... she did her race, set her pace, maintained it, and then discovered she had more gears she could draw Vittoria W.I. learn about upon when needed ... she finished 4th or 5th it doesn't matter ... because she learned something about herself and Alzheimer’s her drive and pace ... – Adapted from an article by Joan Doyle in the Port Dover Maple Leaf Last Tuesday morning I received some bad news – that a Members of the Vittoria Women’s Institute who gathered friend of Monica's and mine bad passed away after a long for their January meeting at the Old Town Hall was the ideal hard battle with cancer. I was sad, mad and frustrated for the group to hear a presentation about a disease where better part of the day ... And then I remember the whole talk I three-quarters of the sufferers are female. had had with my daughter about running. The disease is Alzheimer's and it is the most common You see, my friend Joan was a runner also and looking cause of dementia. It attacks the brain and it destroys back on her race with cancer I realized she ran the race her memory particularly short-term memory - and plays havoc way. with reasoning and judgment, orientation to time and place, Let me explain ... I believe that when Joan found out and brings on sudden mood swings. about her cancer she knew it was going to be a marathon. There is no known cure. She didn't back down from the challenge, she kept training Susan Cuming, public education coordinator for the hard. By that I mean her quiet determination to be strong, Alzheimer Society of Haldimand Norfolk, gave a PowerPoint not allowing others to feel sorry for her. Her subtle way to presentation to the Women's Institute on January 11 to turn the conversation and ask how you were doing, you just educate the group and to dispel some of the myths and looked at her and saw that resolve, that this was her race ... stigma surrounding Alzheimer's. her marathon was under way ... she set her pace proudly ... One major piece of misinformation out there is that controlling her breathing ... working through the pain with Alzheimer's is a normal part of aging. “It's not,” Susan dignity, challenging herself with every step ... and telling the Cuming declared. A new study confirms that the elderly are folks in the race with her to keep going ... making them not the only ones who could be vulnerable. Also people as believe they too could continue on ... young as 40 and 50 are developing the disease. At the half way point of the race Joan's stride was Known risk factors include aging and family history, she growing stronger. She was climbing the hills with ease, her said. Risk factors that are under investigation include head focus was clear, her race was on her terms and anything injury or trauma to the brain, Down syndrome, Mild Cognitive was possible. At the time I remember with grace she helped impairment, hormone replacement therapy and aluminum, all those around her ... I remember her working out in the although aluminum has pretty much been dismissed as a Cancer fitness room at the school ... asking what she could risk factor, she said. do to help ... fixing straps on the rowing machine ... Donating So what does happen to the brain that once could to the billboard campaign ... always giving ... never remember everyone's birthday or could make a cake without complaining about a thing ... I always told her get better ... ever looking at a recipe? that we needed more people like her around — Joan got it! A normal brain weighs between three and five pounds, She knew what was Important in life ... helping others ... she said. One affected by Alzheimer's shrinks away from the She entered the last leg of her marathon. It had gotten skull and drops in weight to about a pound. Or, it can tough; there was only a little way to go – She knew she disappear altogether. needed that big kick at the end to finish strong and she Pointing out that she is not a neurologist, Ms Cuming delivered ... She kicked in that extra gear, felt the wind in her explained in lay terms that a MRI of an affected brain would face, took in the world around her, asked if you were OK and show A-beta protein deposited around the nerve cells. It is crossed that finish line with head held high, determination plaque and it's similar to that found on teeth. Also, -11- W.I. Update ... and Gold Medal Athlete! thread-like tangles begin to appear inside brain cells and of how Alzheimer's disease affects a person, she said. “I choke out their ability to be healthy. Eventually, the plaque encourage family and friends to become educated so they and tangles win the battle. realize the person isn't doing things on purpose but their There are 10 warning signs connected to Alzheimer's. actions are the result of a broken brain. We always tell 1. Memory loss that begins to affect day-to-day caregivers not to take any of the person's behaviour function. It's normal to occasionally forget a person's name personally. Look for the person behind the disease. They are or a phone number but sooner or later, it will come to us, still there.” Susan Cuming said. But even with a reminder, the person Public Education Coordinator Cumin also advised Vittoria with Alzheimer's simply doesn't re- member. She gives the Women's Institute members to keep their brains active. Take example of a man asking another man about his brother. up music lessons, do crosswords and play card games. The man replies that he hasn't seen his brother for a long Things like these activities promote good memory, she said, time, but the man asking the question knows that the two adding the importance of physical activity, eating well and brothers were just talking to each other. getting lots of rest. 2. Difficulty performing a familiar task. Some of us have left the carrots on the stove or in the microwave, only to remember them at the end of the meal. A person with Gold Medal Athlete – Adapted from an article by Jacob Robinson in the Alzheimer's, who has cooked all their lives, has great Not many 13-year-olds can talk seriously about getting a difficulty doing the task. college athletic scholarship, but not many 13-year-olds have 3. Problems with language. We all have trouble finding two gold medals from an international track and field the right word occasionally but a person with Alzheimer's competition either. may forget the simplest of words and substitute words into a Celina DeCarolis, a Grade 8 student at St. Michael's sentence that don't make sense. Walsh, entered into a “supermeet” competition in Toronto 4. Disorientation of time and place. It's normal to forget last summer, and although the results were good, she never the day of the week - for a moment - but an Alzheimer thought a trip overseas would come of it. sufferer can get lost on their own street, not knowing how But Philip Riddell of Centro Scoula in Toronto — a track they got there or how to get home. team made up of Italian descendants — got in contact with 5. Poor or decreased judgment. In this cold weather, Celina’s mother Irene, and the rest, as they say, was history. we put on our coats, hats, mitts and boots, but a person with “I spotted her at the supermeet and said, 'This girl has got Alzheimer's might dress to go outside as though it was potential,'” said Philip Riddell. “So I phoned her mother and summer. said you should get her on a track team and we'll be in 6. Problems with abstract thinking. Susan Cuming touch. Two days later they drive two hours each way to show gives the example of balancing a cheque-book, which is way up for a two-and-a-half hour practice.” too difficult for a person with Alzheimer's. She also mentions And making the trip two to three times a week since has that paying the bills is difficult, and tells the story of one paid off. Celina has been tearing up track and field events all spouse not finding out that a utility bill hadn't been paid until over the province, even though she's usually competing the service was cut off. against girls a year older. 7. Misplacing things. Anyone can temporarily misplace Earlier this year, Centro Scoula athletes qualified for the their wallet or keys, she said, but a person with Alzheimer Giochi della Gioventu — which translates into English as disease may put things in strange places, like the iron in the Games of Youth — held all over Italy from May 2-10. The freezer or a wristwatch in the sugar bowl. event is sponsored by the Italian Olympic Committee, and 8. Changes in mood and behaviour. Everyone gets has been inviting displaced Italian communities from all over moody occasionally but a person with Alzheimer's can go the world to take part since 1984. from calm to tears to anger for no apparent reason. When her long jump and 4x100 m relay results from the 9. Changes in personality. Alzheimer sufferers can event's qualifying round came back, it was a dream come become confused, suspicious or withdrawn. He/she may true for Celina. become fearful or act out of character. “I was just surprised,” she said. “even though I had 10. Loss of initiative. It's normal, she said, for people to thought about it before, it still didn't process.” tire of housework or business activities, but then resume Irene had probably thought their was a chance that activity. A person with Alzheimer disease may become very someday she'd watch her daughter compete for Canada passive, and wouldn't think of being involved. He/she won't overseas, but not before she even graduated elementary participate in conversations like they once did. She tells the school story of a man who often went out for coffee with his pals, “In the movie “The Secret' they say if you really believe in but he quit because he found the conversation to be too something and want that wish, you're supposed to write it confusing. down and put it away,” said Irene. People might think the symptoms are a normal part of “When the coach called and said they would be going to aging, she said, but they aren't. Go to your doctor and get a Italy, Celina said, 'I can't believe my wish came true so medical diagnosis, she advised, adding that some health soon.' To have it happen so quickly, she was thrilled to issues can present the same or similar symptoms. In death:" particular, dehydration, urinary tract infections, an improperly But Celina wasn't just pleased to be there. She topped all working thyroid gland, and even stress can all present others with a leap of 4.50 m in the long jump and won a symptoms that are like Alzheimer's. second gold with her 4x100 m relay team. It is also very important for family members to be aware All those hours driving to practice and working on getting -12- St. Michael’s Speedsters! better paid off in spades. “It was wonderful,” Celina said. “I loved every moment of it” Watching her daughter be awarded two gold medals a world away from home was a unique experience for Irene, but not all that unexpected. “With her drive, she doesn't go in to something without determination,” she said. “I was very happy, but at the same time I wasn't 100 per cent surprised because she has that zone that she gets into.” And it's that zone that has kept her coming back for more. “Trying to balance everything was tough (this year),” said Irene. “But this is what her passion is, she's the one pushing me saying 'let's go, let's go.'” This summer, Celina has a few goals, two of which are hitting 5.20 m in long jump and 1.60 m in high jump. She's not thinking too long term at this point, just excelling at Holy Trinity for the next four to five years. “I just want to get a scholarship, that's really all I've thought about,” said Celina. There will be a few things working against Celina DeCarolis, but her mother said there's one undying thing that St. Michael’s Catholic Elementary School in Walsh was awarded top honours in the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board Track and Field meet. Students who helped earn the school the A Division championship as well as the overall championships included, left to right, Kaitlyn Vanderlee; Celina DeCarolis; Clark Vanderlee; Kyle Vigar; and Logan Land. Coach T.J. McCool kneels behind his athletes. Photo by Ashley House, in the Times Reformer

will always be there. “Things can change. Kids can grow differently ... and she could get injured,” she said. “But she has that passion and I don't think she'll lose it. If she holds on to that, she has a chance to go far.” Grandson recalls family's 4-storey barn – Adapted from an article by Bill Ramp Jr. in the Port Dover Maple Leaf That is a gorgeous photo of the barn on the nHoward and nBetty Goode place in The Maple Leaf for May 6. The barn was built by my grandfather W. George Duncan about 1917-1918 after leaving a career in electrical engineering to take over his father's farming operations about 1915. There had been an orchard on what is now the Goode place at least as far back as the 1880s, part of an extended apple export business carried on by William and Hugh Duncan in Lots 7, Concession 1 and Lot 7, Concession 2. The original kernel of their orchard was probably a small planting of Snow apples on the farm of Bill and Ruth Ramp dating back maybe to the 1820s or 30s. One of these trees survived until the 1970s. In 1913, farm records for William Duncan's orchard indicate that 1286 barrels of apples were shipped to England, followed by 1642 barrels in 1914. The varieties mentioned, roughly in order of prominence, were Greening, Baldwin, Spy, Russet, King, Jenetting, Spitzenberg, Snow, Bellefleur, Romanite and Levaar. The big five appear to have been Greenings, Spies, Baldwins, Russets and Kings, with Greenings overwhelmingly dominant. Celina DeCarolis excels at both the long jump and as a member of a 4x100 After 1917, George Duncan engaged in an ambitious m relay team, having experienced gold-medal success in International competitions. replanting on the Goode property, keeping some old -13- Beautiful and Unique Barn

shelves. Some may still remember their different uses and tastes. This business was finally wound up in 1966 with the sale of the farm to Howard Goode's father, though the Matz family, I believe, continued to crop some of the trees for a while thereafter. Back to the barn building - it had four floors: stabling for cattle and horses and some space for equipment at the bottom; a packing shed, workbench area and cistern above (the apple grader from this level is now at Backus); space for storage of baskets, boxes, ladders, machinery, wagon and other harvesting and packing necessities above that, and a mow at top. An elevated driveway led directly to the top two levels. There was also a chute that led directly from the mow at top to the stables at bottom: we were always warned to stay away from it. Howard and Betty Goode have done a wonderful job of keeping up the barn and the grounds. Photo of barn as it looks today – by Earl Hartlen The barn was indeed a very social place up through the early 1960s, with numbers of local people involved in picking varieties but adding new ones, some experimental. and packing the fruit, many returning year after year. This eventually resulted in a mixed fruit operation (which My grandfather and one of his sisters were avid amateur he called “Creston Orchards”) with a broad range of photographers in their younger days, and luckily twelve varieties. photos of various stages of the barn's construction survive, Apples: Baldwin, Bellflower, Duchess, Golden Delicious, along with a large group photo of the barn-raising dinner Greening, Jonathan, Macintosh, Melba, Red Delicious, (showing many local worthies of a century ago), and photos Russet, Scarlet Pippin, Sheepsnose, Spitzenberg, Spy, of many people involved in the work of the farm from the Tolman Sweet, Wealthy. 1920s through the 1960s. Peaches: Elberta, Crawford, Fisher, Golden Jubilee, Hale Haven, Red Haven, Rochester, Sun Haven. Pears: Anjou, Bartlett. Guinness Record attempt at Plums: Damson, German Prune, Grand Duke, Italian Walsh P.S. Prune, Reinclaude. – Adapted from an article by Marg Werden in the Norfolk Hub Sour Cherries: Montmorency and Richmond. Several local schools, including Walsh Public School, Sweet Cherries: Bigareaux (or Bigarreau) Bing, Brown took part in a Guinness Book of World Records record Windsor, Hedelfingen, white or yellow cherries (varietal attempt to break the current record for the most children name unknown). being read to simultaneously by an adult. Most of the varieties planted new 90 years ago, along Spearheaded by the ABC Canada Literacy Foundation, with those of a generation earlier, no longer appear on store the event was organized to coincide with Family Literacy Day on January 27 and to promote family literacy. “As part of Family Literacy Day, January 23 was designated as World Record Attempt day,” explained nDirk Matthys, Principal of Walsh Public School. “The current record is 78,791 set by the United States in 2006.” Schools across Canada were invited to participate in the attempt through a school council newsletter. “nPatty McGuire, our Council Chair, brought the ad to one of our meetings and we thought it was a good idea and decided to run with it,” Mr. Matthys said. “We thought it was a good thing for the school to get involved in.” The record attempt required the students to read with an adult for 30 minutes without interruption. “We were required to read five stories written by Robert Munsch,” the principal explained. “We had several copies of the books here and the ABC Canada Literacy Foundation made the stories available on-line with pictures and text. Several of our classrooms used our smart boards to read the stories.” More than 190,000 people at over 1,000 locations across Canada registered to take part in the event, including 325 The four-storey barn of W. George Duncan under construction about 1917-1918. Kindergarten to Grade 8 students at Walsh Public School. -14- Going for Guinness ... and Yard Sale Find!!

Whether the record was broken by Canada will not be known until all participants return the paperwork that attests to the fact that all conditions of the event were met. Yard Sale Find! This past April, I received the following email from my brother Doug, who had forwarded it from an old friend in Toronto.

Hi, Doug: This morning while unpacking donations to the sale at our church I came across two small “pictures” ... quite nice really ... a matching set, each about 5" x 7" including the frame. The 'art' consists of sea shells glued to the back ... each shell being painted so that the net result looks like a 3-dimensional floral bouquet. The frame itself has glass to protect the 'art' from damage. The pictures and frame are in good condition although the backing paper is torn in spots. The surprise was the neatly typed label on the back. It reads: “This Original Floral Miniature is comprised of shells from the Gulf of Mexico and is the creation of Capt. Rev. Andrew D. Robb 'Windwhistle', Port Ryerse, Ontario.” It appears to me to be a product of the 40's or 50's but could easily be older. Would you or Roger know anything of the background? I'm not interested in it myself but if it's a 'local treasure', I could likely buy them for a small sum. Let me know today if there's any interest. Paul

I notified Doug and Paul that, even though I had not been able to find any useful information on the Internet, about Captain Robb, I would be interested in the two pieces, if the price was right, and told them how much I was willing to pay. I then received this response. Each “shell art” picture is enlosed in a decorative frame and show the detail, care and skill employed by the artist Capt. Rev. Andrew D. Robb, of Port Hi: Thanks for getting back to me quickly. Glad I Ryerse. didn't have to join the throngs of bargain hunters that will arrive in the morning. I was at home after lunch the Atlantic in England. repairing an antique balance scale for the sale. I just Many Brantford citizens know Capt. Robb, known returned the scale to the church and picked up the familiarly to his friends as “Andy” Robb. Hundreds of “pictures” which had been moved from the Brantfordites, as well as citizens of many parts of Canada miscellaneous pictures and frames area to the better and the United States know Capt. Robb who, for more than “treasures” and fine china room. 40 years preached the Gospel of Christ as an ordained Got the pair for your offer. Will bring them along next minister of the United Church of Canada. Six years ago, time we make a trip that way. Paul. Capt. Robb retired from the ministry and declared himself finished with speaking engagements, dramatic recitals and In the meantime, I vaguely recalled seeing some kind of the like, through which he acquired a continent-wide article about a Reverend Robb, and in a search of my own reputation. He has addressed service clubs in Brantford on computer archives, I found the following article. several occasions. At the time of his retirement, however, Capt. Robb had no way of knowing that an affliction would be visited upon him. CAPT. REV. ANDREW D. ROBB, DESPITE Some time ago, in Toronto, this revered cleric underwent a AFFLICTION, PURSUES SHELL CRAFT HOBBY serious operation and, although still exceptionally active and By J.M. Merriman able to take keen enjoyment out of life, he will never talk Nestled in among the trees at Port Ryerse, on the fringe again. of , is a summer cottage. People term most of the Nucleus For Story residences in Port Ryerse as summer cottages but, actually, Capt. Robb's career up to his retirement and his amazing this particular residence, bearing the name “Windwhistle”, is philosophy and outlook on life since retirement, and since he more than that, for “Windwhistle” is more than 100 years old was stricken, constitute the nucleus for this story as and is the home of Capt. Rev. Andrew D. Robb, known and observed recently when this newspaperman, in company beloved to thousands of people on this continent and across with an old friend of the cleric, spent part of an evening at

-15- Port Ryerse Artist Created Rare and Unique Shell Art

“Windwhistle,” the quaint summer home at Port Ryerse, on of his works are “Fear, and Be Slain”, “Forever England”, the fringe of Lake Erie. “My Horse Warrior”, and “Launch”. It is indeed difficult to know just where to commence in Returning to Canada in 1921 Capt. Robb struck up an writing of this reverent gentleman, but one fact is definite. It acquaintance aboard ship with E.M. Pritchard, then just a is that this newspaperman left “Windwhistle” much humbler boy, who is now Secretary-Treasurer of the Kitchen Overall at heart than when he arrived. No person could spend two and Shirt Company, Limited. That chance acquaintance has, hours in the company of this benevolent gentleman, who, through the years, grown to a lasting friendship. Mr. despite the fact he has been deprived of a faculty which for Pritchard was at “Windwhistle,” the other evening and the more than half a century had been counted as one of his pleasure this visit brought to Capt. Robb was obvious. greatest - and most eloquent - assets, and come away with After the first Great War, Capt. Robb continued his anything but a sense of shame and humiliation, knowing that ministry at St. Paul's United Church, Dundas; Westmoreland heretofore complaints had been voiced against the heat, or United Church, Toronto; Glebe Road United Church, the cold, or the rain, or lack of moisture and a Toronto, which was built during his ministry there, and later hundred-and-one minor ailments and grievances. at St. Andrew's United Church, Oshawa. At the latter church, Human Philosophy Ed. Bisch, another well known Brantford man, was a church Be that as it may, however, the story of Capt. Robb is one official and he, too, came to know and love Capt. Robb. brimming over with color, charm, success, broad human Some weeks ago, Mr. Bisch visited the cleric at philosophy and reconciliation. All these factors came from “Windwhistle”, and old acquaintances and friendships were one or two of many scratch pads, being written renewed with vigor. Capt. Robb spent six years at St. unhesitatingly and with a firm hand by the central figure in Andrew's Church, Oshawa, retiring from the ministry in 1938. the story and, in answer to my questions. The Robbs have been going down to “Windwhistle” at Career in Ministry Port Ryerse every year for 24 years. In fact, most of the Capt. Robb was born in Woodstock, 75 years ago. He trees, among which the old house nestles, were planted by decided early in life on entering the ministry and, as a Capt. Robb. student minister, a church in Cainsville was his first charge. I asked about the old home. Capt. Robb's face lighted up. Educated at Hamilton Collegiate and Albert college, he He held up his hand, scribbled quickly on his scratch pad graduated from Toronto's Victoria University with high and wrote: “It is a beautiful old place. You notice the door? honors. That is the original door taken from an old barn in Port He ministered for a time at Burford and after graduation Ryerse. The iron knocker is 300 years old. That's a long time at Cathcart, there it was that he met Charles and Aut for a door to hang together, isn't it?” his note said, and his Ludlow, well known Brantford business men, who, at that eyes twinkled humorously. time operated Cathcart's general store. Mecca For Children Greatest Joys “Windwhistle” is a mecca for children. Every year groups While at Burford, Capt. Robb met Maude E. Smith, of boys from Camp Ruddy and from “Restall,” a camp daughter of Douglas Smith, Fairfield Plains, who later operated by a Hamilton church, congregate at the cottage to became his wife. The Robbs celebrated the 45th anniversary hear stories told to them by Capt. Robb. of their marriage last June 13. Mrs. Robb has always been a Recently, two groups came over, unaware of the affliction true helpmate of her husband. The union was blessed with which had overtaken their storyteller. Capt. Robb saw them three children, all of whom are married. They are Dorothy coming, scribbled a few notes on his scratch pad, handed and Jean and Douglas, and they reside in Toronto. Capt. them to Mrs. Robb, who told the youngsters the story. What Robb counts his eight grandchildren among his greatest a perfect example of “pinch-hitting!” joys. Shell Craft Hobby While the writer was at “Windwhistle,” two of his However, the large majority of Capt. Robb's young grandchildren, Peter and Paul Pierson, Dorothy's boys, were visitors -- they are all his friends -- come over to the cottage there also, and the conversation was frequently interrupted to watch him work at his hobby which is shell craft. For years with boyish requests for information from their grandfather. It Capt. Robb wintered in the south and one of his major was plain to see that whatever grandfather decided was interests has been the acquiring of a collection of sea shells. perfectly all right with the healthy, rosy-cheeked, youngsters. He showed this collection the other evening and While Capt. Robb was at University, he took keen interest hundreds of amazing specimens were displayed to the in the Glee club, being a member of the Victoria College delight of the visitors. In fact, his private collection of sea Quartet and one of the editors of ACTA VICTORIANA. This shells is reputed among the finest on the continent. literary turn of mind, with his extensive reading, brought him His shell craft hobby has also brought him distinction and into the field of dramatic recitals and he prepared a number his shell ornaments have an international reputation. They of epitomes of great classics, some of his outstanding are beautifully designed and veritable works of art. Mrs. recitals being “Ben Hur”, “Les Miserables” and “A Tale of Robb also pursues this hobby with equal success. Two Cities”. Just before leaving, Capt. Robb presented this In First Great War newspaperman with a small souvenir, a box of matches on When the First Great War broke out, Capt. Robb enlisted the top cover of which was a quaintly designed ornament as a Padre and served in that capacity with the Canadian made of shells. The matches were made in Sweden and this Cavalry Brigade for three years. Commanding Officer of the fact brought a query from the newspaperman. The reply was Brigade was Brig.-General J.B. Seely, who later became instant and direct: “Some matches are made in Heaven, but Lord Mottistone, and a noted author. Among the best known more in Sweden”, was written on the scratch-pad and the

-16- Port Ryerse Artist’s Unique Shell Art Found at Yard Sale inevitable humorous twinkle was in the cleric's eye. and died of laryngeal cancer in Toronto Chorley Philosophy Epitomized Hospital, Dec.18 1945. Barb says she had not seen Among his collection of shells and shell craft work are a the article sent by Roger before so it was welcome number of cleverly designed pictures made from the shells. I news. She expects to review the article for errors and noticed up in the left-hand top corner of each picture a shell possibly additions, etc. so I have sent her a “.doc” replica of a bird in flight. Curiosity overcame me and a query version to facilitate this. We'll let you know what was again forthcoming. It brought forth this reply: “Ah, that is comes of it. my trademark. A bluebird of happiness, no less”, he wrote. Oddly, she was not the person who put the 'pictures' Capt. Robb's trademark epitomizes his philosophy and in the rummage sale. However, since he spent time at his general outlook on life, which is distinctly one of Glebe United in Toronto ( which is not a long way from reconciliation and of happiness. This brings the story of this our church ), maybe they came from a former reverend, gentleman almost to a close, except for one item. parishioner there or a friend. Also Betty Murton told Annually, for many years, Capt. Robb has delivered a me that she has one or two of his floral creations. sermon to the congregation of St. James’ United Church, Paul. Simcoe. This year he was unable to do so, but he prepared the address and it was given by proxy at the appointed time. (Rumour has it that this striking pair of original shell Fitting Climax art pieces created by Capt. Rev. Robb of Port Ryerse in I secured a copy of this address, delivered for Capt. Robb the early 20th century may be offered for sale at the by the Minister of the church, Rev. Earl W. Brearley, and the 2010 V&DF Auction. Any collector interested in unique closing paragraphs of this masterful sermon on the part local heritage art may wish to keep this in mind as played in the war by Canadian youth, provides a fitting March 20 approaches.) climax to this story. Here it is: “Some of us have come very close to the gates of that happy Shangri-La, but must need wait for priorities ere we New Vittoria Firehall Finished enter in : ‘The hands of Christ are very pale For they were broken by a nail. But only he gains Heaven at last Whom those pale broken hands hold fast.' “Thank you, my good Simcoe friends, for your kind indulgence, the Voice that gives utterance to my thoughts, and to my minister for his gracious gesture in proffering me, ?? am hors de combat, a chance for a valedictory. “To all who weep let me say this: 'I said to the man who stood at the gate of the years. Give me alight that I may tread with safety into the unknown. And he said unto me: Go out into the darkness. Put your hand into the hand of God. that will be to the better than light and safer than any known way.”

*** The Vittoria Firefighters Association is proud to announce that their New I forwarded the complete article to Doug and Paul, and Vittoria Firehall is ready to go. Trucks and equipment have been transferred, then received the following messages. and a Grand Opening will likely be announced very soon. Great news!

Hi: I just dropped Mary Ann off at 9 am to work in the books area of today's rummage sale. The doors open at 10 am and there were already 25 people waiting to get in. A bit later they will be served coffee while they wait. I returned to find what Roger had found on our sea shell 'artist' ... quite interesting. The info I received didn't carry any dates so it's a bit hard to determine his exact era but I'm sure that could be determined from the numerous references in the story. I checked the two 'works' for his signature bluebird in the upper left corner. Sure enough, they were there, although in one of the pictures, the bluebird is in the upper right corner. Regards. Paul.

Hi: I've been in touch with Capt. Robb's granddaughter, Barbara Moote. The new Firehall is expected to be much more functional than the old one, Capt. Robb was born in Woodstock Dec. 18, 1874 with ample space for the Firefighters to house their trucks and other rescue equipment, and perform their training, operations and maintenance. -17- More Candids ... and a few Local Legends

There are always numerous prizes to be won in the Regular Raffle, the Santa paid a surprise visit to the Vittoria Women’s Institute Christmas dinner Toonie Draw, and the draw for the Door Prizes. for Seniors. He was greeted by W.I. representative nJackie Chadwick.

nGary Cooper was driving down the street in a Harold Jarvis went to the doctor to get a physical. A sweat because he was late for an important meeting few days later, the doctor saw Harold walking down and couldn't find a parking place. Looking up to the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm. heaven he said, "Lord, take pity on me. If you find A couple of days later, the doctor spoke to Harold me a parking place I will go to Church every Sunday and said, "You're really doing great, aren't you?" for the rest of my life. I’ll even give up drinking Harold replied, "Just doing what you said, Doc: 'Get Wiser’s!" Miraculously, a parking place appeared. a hot momma and be cheerful.'" Gary looked up again and said, "Never mind, I found The doctor said, "I didn't say that. I said, 'You've got one." a heart murmur; be careful.'"

nWarren Burger, Lyle Smith and nTom Waldick Two of our local Irishmen, nMichael O’McGuire and were enjoying a Tim-break with some of the Vittoria nRichard O’Crandall were sitting at a pub having boys, when nJim Melville asked them, "When you're beer and watching the brothel across the street. in your casket, and your friends and family are They saw a Baptist minister walk into the brothel, mourning over you, what would you like them to and one of them said, "Aye, 'tis a shame to see a say?" man of the cloth goin' bad". Warren said: "I would like them to say I was a Then they saw a rabbi enter the brothel, and the wonderful husband, a fine, upstanding inspirational other Irishman said, "Aye, 'tis a shame to see that leader, and a great family man." the Jewish are fallin' victim to temptation as well." Lyle commented: "I would like them to say I was a Then they see a Catholic priest enter the brothel, wonderful auctioneer and community volunteer who and one of the Irishmen said, "What a terrible made a huge difference in people's lives." pity...one of the girls must be dying.” Tom said: "I'd like them to say, 'Hey look, he's moving!'"

A man went to see the Rev. George Watt. "George, A senior citizen said to his eighty-year old buddy, something terrible is happening and I have to talk to "So I hear you're getting married?" you about it." "Yep!" George asked, "What's wrong?" "Do I know her?" The man replied, "My wife is poisoning me." "Nope!" George, very surprised by this, asks, "How can that "This woman, is she good looking?" be?" "Not really." The man then pleads, "I'm telling you, I'm certain "Is she a good cook?" she's poisoning me, what should I do?" "Naw, she can't cook too well." George then offers, "Tell you what. Let me talk to "Does she have lots of money?" her, I'll see what I can find out and I'll let you know." "Nope! Poor as a church mouse." A week later George calls the man and says, "Well, I "Well, then, is she good in bed?" spoke to your wife. I spoke to her on the phone for "I don't know." three hours. You want my advice?" "Why in the world do you want to marry her then?" The man said yes and George replied, "Take the "Because she still has her driver’s licence!" poison."

-18- It’s That Time Again! ... and Coming Events

• The Vittoria & District Foundation was formed in 1997, a spin-off from Vittoria’s 1996 Bicentennial COMING EVENTS celebrations. In the ensuing twelve years, our UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, ALL EVENTS ARE AT Foundation has compiled an impressive resume of THE VDCC (VITTORIA & DISTRICT COMMUNITY accomplishments. Thanks to the generosity of our CENTRE). members, the many contributors to our annual ST. WILLIAMS SUNDAY BRUNCHES fundraising auctions (and the enthusiastic bidders), and AT THE ST. WILLIAMS COMMUNITY CENTRE. our awesome dedicated volunteers, we have been able DATES FOR 2009: July 12, Aug. 9, Sept. 13, Oct. 11 to make significant contributions totalling more than Sun. Aug. 9 WOODHOUSE UNITED CEMETERY $300,000 to local beneficiaries including: Community DECORATION DAY ~ Service at 9:30 am Centres, Halls, Parks and Museums owned by Norfolk County; the Family Fund; NGH Sun. Aug. 9 ST. ANDREW’S UNITED CEMETERY CAT Scanner; NGH ICU Upgrades; NGH Digital DECORATION DAY ~ Service at 11:00 am Mammography equipment; SCS Sabres “Rising from the Wed. Sept. 30 BRIDAL SHOWCASE ~ 6:00 pm. Free Ashes”; Gifts to other area Non-profit Organizations; Admission with invitation only. For your Scholarships and other Youth programs; and numerous invitation and to register for the Showcase, please contact your Welcome Miscellaneous Community Improvements. We thank the Wagon hostess, Virginia at 519-426-3794. entire community for its support! • On a number of its special projects, The Foundation Sat. Oct. 17 BUS DAYTRIP ~ Arranged by The Vittoria & District Foundation. Leave at 7:30 am. has forged partnerships with dedicated service Mystery Destinations. Tentative price is organizations in the Vittoria area. “The Magnificent $65 per person, Supper included. Folks Seven” is an informal alliance of seven service who went on the May 10 Bus Daytrip organizations which includes the Vittoria Lamport have first chance, then customers from (Seniors) Club, the Vittoria Lions Club, the Vittoria Larry’s waiting list until tickets are sold out. To get your name added to the list, Lioness Club, the Vittoria Firefighters Association, the contact Larry at 519-426-5923. Vittoria Women’s Institute, and the Thompson Memorial Sat. Oct. 17 VITTORIA LIONS CLUB WING DING Park Committee as well as The Vittoria & District (Chicken Wing Dinner & Dance) ~ Music Foundation. As well, we have received occasional by DJ. Doors Open At 5:00 pm. Dinner At private donations from a number of generous 6:00 pm. Contact Jim at 519-428-0783. individuals and the Vittoria Independent Order of Sat. Nov. 21 CHRISTMAS IN VITTORIA ~ Visit ten Foresters. Thanks to everyone for partnering with us! Sun. Nov. 22 local artisans, craftspeople and local • Membership in the V&DF is open to anyone, food producers. Enjoy light lunch at ye anywhere, who pays a $20 per year membership fee Olde Town Hall. Contact Cheryl at (which is tax-receiptable upon request). The V&DF 519-426-0705. presently has approximately 300 members. New Sat. Nov. 21 VITTORIA ART & WOODCRAFT SHOW ~ members are always welcome. Please call John at Sun. Nov. 22 Vittoria’s very own ‘one-of-a-kind’ show and sale. Contact Ron at 519-426-0505. 426-8583 or Twila or Roger at 426-0234 for information and a membership application form. Sat. Nov. 28 MEAT RAFFLE ~ Thompson Memorial Park Committee – 8 pm - 11 pm. Everybody Welcome. Door Prize.

Yes, it’s that time again! Sat. Dec. 5 MEAT RAFFLE ~ Vittoria Lions Club – 8 TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP FOR 2009, OR TO pm - 11 pm. Everybody Welcome. Door JOIN OUR FOUNDATION FOR THE FIRST TIME, Prize.

PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN THE CANARY Sat. Dec. 12 MEAT RAFFLE ~ Vittoria Firefighters – 8 (YELLOW) SHEET (IF ONE IS ENCLOSED). pm - 11 pm. Everybody Welcome. Door PLEASE BE SURE YOU INDICATE WHETHER YOU Prize. WANT A RECEIPT OR NOT. Thurs. Dec. 31 NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION ~ AN IMPORTANT NOTE Vittoria Lions Club. Contact Jim at Our Treasurers, Twila and Brenda are unpaid 519-428-0783. volunteers. Between them, they spend hundreds of REGULAR MONTHLY ACTIVITIES (Some organizations cancel summer and December meetings. hours each year on our behalf. They need to have a Please check with the Organization) completed Membership Application form for every BAPTIST W.A. – 4TH WEDNESDAY – 2 PM (in lower church auditorium) member, as they these must be kept on file for the LAMPORT CLUB EXECUTIVE 2 PM - SECOND THURSDAY (in Town Hall) Auditors. They only ask that you complete your own. LAMPORT CLUB POTLUCK – 4TH THURSDAY – 6:30 PM (in Town Hall) LIONESS CLUB – 2ND WEDNESDAY – 7 PM If you don’t, then Twila or Brenda has to do it for you LIONS CLUB – 1ST and 3RD WEDNESDAYS – 7 PM (and possibly dozens like you). We respectfully UNITED CHURCH WOMEN – 1ST TUESDAY – 7:30 PM (in Sunday School room) request your co-operation. WOMEN’S INSTITUTE – 2ND WEDNESDAY – 1 PM (in Town Hall) PLEASE COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION FORM PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.vittoria.on.ca NOW AND SEND IT IN. THANK YOU! WE SINCERELY APOLOGIZE IF WE HAVE INADVERTENTLY OMITTED OR MIS-SPELLED ANYONE’S NAME. -19- A Few More Candids

Each year, the Vittoria Women’s Institute generously hosts a much-appreciated Christmas Turkey Dinner for seniors from Vittoria and district. As usual, the delicious 2008 dinner at the Vittoria Town hall served a full house.

You may write your own caption for this photo. Are Warren, Gary and Lyle hanging their heads in shame as Tom scolds them? They look like they may have been caught with their hands in the cookie jar. Or is Tom leading them in prayer? Is that microphone really embedded in Warren’s eye? -20-