july 2017 vet’s gazette - royal canadian legion branch 34 · chairman, ron goebel. to date...

July 2017

In Flanders Fields In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place: and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow Loved, and were loved and now we

lie in Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe,

To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies

grow In Flanders Fields. Col John McCrae

R o y a l C a n a d i a n L e g i o n , O r i l l i a , B r a n c h 3 4

2 1 5 M i s s i s s a g a S t . E . , O r i l l i a , O n t a r i o L 3 V 1 W 2

Vet’s Gazette

Branch 34 Executive, 2017 - 2019 Front row from left to right, Padre Rev Gerry McMillan, Service Officer Peter

DeVillers, President Rick Purcell, 1st Vice President Bob Thomas and Treasurer Brian Robertson. Second Row, Executive members Neville Gale, Bob Dimaline, John Cropper, Harold Durant Jr., Ralph Bernard, Rob McCron and Sergeant-at-Arms Cliff

Vardy. Absent are 2nd Vice-President, Jack Hird, Executive members Sandy Robertson and Jamie McIsaac and Padres Major Gary High and Rev. Terry Bennett

VET’S GAZETTE

Branch Officers President - Rick Purcell 705-330-4815

1st Vice President - Bob Thomas 705-325-4695

2nd Vice President - Jack Hird 705-329-1333

Treasurer - Brian Robertson 705-327-1825

Recording Secretary - Cindy Cassels 705-325-8442

Branch 34 Executive

John Cropper 705-325-0580

Neville Gale 705-326-1312

Sandy Robertson 705-326-1328

Bob Dimaline 705-259-0591

Ron McCron 705-325-9229

Jamie McIsaac 705-326-1232

Ralph Bernard

Padre Gerry McMillan 705-329-0338

Padre Gary High 705-345-7402

Padre Terry Bennett 705-329-0289

Sergeant-at-Arms - Cliff Vardy 705-327-1155

Colour Sergeant - Colin Wackett 705-325-7874

Service Bureau – Peter DeVillers 705-326-2198

Committees

Poppy – John Cropper

Membership - Bob Dimaline

House - Harold Durant Jr.

Sports - Neville Gale.

Ways and Mean - Sandy Robertson

Seniors - Bob Dimaline

PRO - Rob McCron

Youth Education - Jamie McIsaac

Track & Field - Jamie McIsaac

Bingo, Air Cadets, Minor Ball – Rick Purcell

Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital - Chuck Penny

Office Personnel Administrator Cindy Cassels Office 705-325-8442

Bar 705-325-1266

Special Events

Scottish Festival Chuck Penny 705-326-6147

Special Committees Chairpersons

Legion Crest Complex Paul Spears 705-325-8752

Pipe Band Manager Linda Buchanan 705-326-5470

Poppy Loan Cupboard Fred Ritter 705-326-7959

Sick & Visiting Bob Dimaline 705-259-0591

Reta Keeler 705-329-0295

Ladies Auxiliary Officers

President, Funeral Lunches Debbie Stanton 705-325-4240

Immediate Past President - Sick & Visiting

Gladys Fountain 705-326-2507

Secretary/Treasurer Bev Brennan 705-331-3195

1st Vice President - Theresa Bernard

705-259-0931 Bid Euchre and Meeting Luncheons

2nd Vice President - Membership & Corresponding

Secretary Deborah Carey 705-326-5181

Sergeant-at-Arms and Ways Means Sandra Evans

Ways and Means - Cindy Cashen

Sports Officer Brenda Watt 705-325-8104

Phoning Committee - Lillian Butt 705-330-0139

Phoning for helpers for lunches - Cathy Wackett

Executive members

Sandy Robertson (Meeting Lunches) 705-326-1328

Sherry Campbell, Cathy Vitalia, June Frankland

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

mailto:[email protected]

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 3

President’s Report Comrades:

T hings have been fairly quiet at the

Legion.

The floor next to the dart boards has been

leveled. Thanks to the volunteers who laid

the new floor in the Tri-Service Room. What

a difference it makes. Thanks to Larry

Fenton, Bill Stenton, Ron Wood, Bruce

Donaldson, and Bernie Durant.

Thanks to Barry Cornish for helping

with the chairs and tables in the Tri-Service

Room.

We are now waiting for the plans for

the new kitchen in the Vimy Room. When

the plans are received we will be looking to

purchase the equipment needed. Some of

the construction is being done by volunteers

at this time. The actual construction likely

will start in August or September.

This will mean a big change for the

Legion. We will be able to have light food

available during the day and possibly

breakfasts Saturday and Sunday mornings.

The Ladies Auxiliary has volunteered to do a

number of chicken dinner fund raisers to

assist in raising funds for the new kitchen.

We hope Legion members

will support their dinners

as well as our normal

monthly summer

barbecues.

If anyone would

like to make a donation

to help us complete the

kitchen quicker it would

be greatly appreciated.

All the sports have

been completed for this

year. They will begin again

in September.

The new executive was sworn in for

the new two year term at the June general

meeting . The Poppy Committee presented

bursaries to high school students going

forward with their education at the same

meeting. General meetings will resume in

September.

The Scottish Festival is July 14, 15

and 16. We hope legion members will

support this event. It is one of our larger

events during the summer.

We are planning a “Gearl’s Night”

event on August 26 with two exciting bands

(boys are welcome too)! This should be a

fun night and something new for the branch.

Hope everyone has a safe and

wonderful summer.

Yours in Comradeship

Rick Purcell

President, Branch 34

Wife calls her husband and says, “Darling, the car is broken, it won’t start.” “What?! It’s in perfect order, what’s wrong with it?” “It’s water in the carburetor, love.” “Oh no, where are you right now?” Um, in the little lake behind the house…

VET’S GAZETTE

Provincial Convention May 13-16, 2017

London, Ontario

D elegates from Branch 34 were President, Rick Purcell, Colin and

Cathy Wackett. Branch L.A. President, Debbie Stanton was present as L.A. Immediate Past Provincial President.

Sunday morning was the traditional parade through downtown to the convention centre. After a delay the convention went into immediate business sessions that lasted until early evening.

As one day had been cut from the convention to save expenses we could expect long sessions. This came true as we spent long days in the convention centre.

Items of interest were the summary of the Military Service Recognition Book by Chairman, Ron Goebel. To date Ontario Command has received $540,000 revenue from the first three editions. Plans are being followed for the next two editions. All branches are being asked to continue efforts to obtain entries for these editions. There are still many branches who have not completely finished circulating information in this regard.

The Minister for Veterans Affairs gave a talk on new services to come for veterans, sadly it was just a talk promising things for the future. I spoke with the Minister and told him that I had heard each preceding Minister talk and wanted to hear a Minister who would take action on some of the promises. He thanked me and left.

The report on Homeless Veterans showed that of Nationwide Funding half came from Ontario. Five hundred veterans from 115 communities have been helped off the streets.

Youth Education report showed that while the Poster, Poetry and Essay programmes are very successful the public speaking program is suffering as schools drop speaking from the curriculum.

Suggestion was to seek other areas of youth activities such as Guides and Scouts.

The Ladies Auxiliary reported many closures of LA branches. Membership in Ontario is 9671. Remarkably they raised a total $6.170,000 of which over $1,000,000. was donated to branches.

Membership totals showed that totals for 2016 were 98% of 2015 membership totals. One hundred and twenty-two branches had an increase in membership.

This is just a brief overview of the convention. It is one comrades view of the event.

The convention report is on file at the branch office and can be reviewed by the membership on request.

Respectfully submitted

Colin Wackett

“Sir, you cannot fish here!”

“Don’t worry, I’m not fishing, I’m just teaching

my worm to swim.”

Kirkin’ of the Tartan

Will be held at

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

Sunday, July 16 at 10 a.m.

All are welcome to join this special service to bless the tartan.

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 5

Ladies Auxiliary President’s Report

Comrades,

W ell Ladies it is that time of year again when we put on the

shorts and tee shirts and finally enjoy some nice weather. Once again it gives me great pleasure to have been elected your L.A. President for another term. We have a great line-up of things to do this summer as we are now on a mission to help raise $20,000.00 toward the new kitchen that we are hoping the branch will start soon. I know everyone can hardly wait for this to begin but remember all of this takes time and I know with your help we will accomplish reaching our goal. I would like to thank Joe and Brenda Watt for giving us the stand up thermometer so we could monitor our goals . We had a chicken dinner fund raiser on June 30 and another is planned for July 14th. On July 15 during the Scottish Festival, on July 15 (in the afternoon) we will be selling Peameal Bacon on a Bun at the branch. I am asking both L.A. and Branch members to come out and help support our cause as this is for both of our benefits To my new executive it will be great to work with all of you in the coming year. To those of you who could not make our Pot-Luck in June you missed a great meal. We had a good turn out. At this time I would like to wish all of our sick and shut-ins a speedy recovery and to get well soon. I hope everyone has a great summer but remember we still have our monthly meetings in July and August and as some of the ladies are away on weekends your help is much needed on our funeral and sandwich luncheons that we are always

needing help with. To those ladies that are travelling this summer drive safe and have a good holiday. Yours in comradeship,

Debbie Stanton

President, Branch 34 Ladies Auxiliary

Sick and Visiting

There were 28 visits to Soldiers’ Memorial

Hospital by Bob Dimaline and Reta Keeler.

During April there were 72 visits to nursing

homes and private residences. Thank you

to Pat Loughnan, Joan Goldsmith, Len

Thorne, Ray Canning, Gord McArthur and

Jackie Verbeek. We appreciate all that

you do!

Last Post Lest We Forget

Huffman, Pvt John Leo, C35156 Canadian Army, World War II. Ordinary Member Branch 34, 94 years old. 04/11/17

Worrall, Gunner Charles S., A57011, Army, World War II. Ordinary Member Branch 34. 93 years old. 04/23/17

Holt, Edward (Ted), World War II, Ordinary Member Branch 34, 93 years old. 02/24/17

Russell, Sgt. Maxwell, R295747 R.C.A.F.

World War II. Ordinary Member Branch 34,

90 years old. 06/12/17

Groome, Pvt. John, B123375, Army, World

War II, Ordinary Member Branch 34. 90 years

old. 06/14/17

Davey, John P., 2598752, Royal Air Force,

Ordinary Member Branch 34. 06/27/17

At the going down of the sun

And in the morning

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM

VET’S GAZETTE

Membership Comrades,

A t the time of writing this report we now have 985 paid up members

with 13 of them waiting to be initiated. There are three people waiting to have their transfers come through and one person waiting for approval. I’ve started calling the members who haven’t renewed and hope to get some of them back.

New Membership Cards In late August each branch will receive their new 2018 membership cards for all 2017 members paid up by June 15, 2017. These new cards are plastic (credit card material) and are designed to last for many years. Members’ years of service will now be recognized by their “Member Since Date”. Continuous years of service will still be recorded by Dominion Command. The membership cards no longer require a signature of the member or membership chairman. Beginning in 2019, annual stickers will validate the membership years paid and will be applied to the back of the membership card.

Yours in comradeship,

Bob Dimaline

Membership Chairman

Navy League

T he Navy League has been running very smoothly. They recently had

their annual inspection and the cadets

enjoyed a weekend away at camp. The numbers have been fairly consistent. They break for the summer

Air Cadets

T he Air Cadets are doing well. They recently held their spring camping

and participated in local sports, band and drill competitions. Their annual inspection was held in June and was well attended. Their 2016 - 2017 training year has been completed and many of the cadets are off to summer camps and will return when school resumes the first week of September.

Legion Minor Ball

T he number of participants in this years Minor Ball program is up from last year and by all accounts

everything is running very smoothly.

Bingo

B ingo is doing well. The number of participants is fairly consistent. The

Catch The Ace is moving a little slower than we had hoped but we are doing OK and it is bringing in extra income for the charities and legion and bingo patrons have been winning the 20% each week. Catch the Ace tickets are sold at the office or at the bar as well as each Friday night during meat draws and darts.

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 7

Poppy Report

S ix area students were recently presented with bursaries valued

at $500 each from the Branch 34 Poppy Trust Fund. Three of them are shown pictured above with Poppy Chairman John Cropper. The students were guests of the branch at the June general meeting. The poppy committee continues to assist veterans and their spouses with much needed help especially with eye care, hearing aids, wheel chair and scooter repairs etc. At the District E Spring convention donations of $2,000 were made to each of the following Provincial Command charities: Ontario Command Charitable Foundation, Ontario Command Bursary Fund, Commonwealth Ex-Servicemans’ League, Leave the Streets Behind and the District E Hospital Trust Fund. Once again the poppy committee will host a Veterans’ Dinner. This evening of fellowship and good food will be held on Tuesday, September 19th in the Vimy Room. Notices will be posted in the branch, after which time veterans are

invited to call the office to reserve a spot. Rides will be provided to those who need them. This evening is not restricted to branch members so if you know a veteran, especially one who doesn’t get out much, please let them know and encourage them to join us.


John Cropper

Poppy Chairman

Hey Sue, what do you say to a nice walk?

Oh Harry, that would be lovely!

Wonderful. Could you bring me some beer

on your way back?

The Orillia

Scottish Festival

Presents

The 48th Highlanders Military

Band

Saturday, July 15th with performances

at 2:15 and 3:15 p.m. In the Branch 34 Royal Canadian

Legion Tri-Service Room

All are welcome!

VET’S GAZETTE

Investment in our military is needed now… for those who

serve, and for the future of Canada

The following is a press release from Dominion Command, June 8, 2017

The Government of Canada’s new Defence Policy was announced yesterday afternoon, with a focus on investing in its people, the military’s long term capabilities, growth and transparency, and operating with a new vision for the future. Coming on the heels of the March 2017 Federal Budget that reduced funding for replacing and maintaining Canada’s aging military equipment, it was clear the 70% increase in budget was aimed at showing the world Canada would be spending more on its military. Yesterday’s announcement promised an increase from $18.9 billion now to $32.7 billion by 2026-27, with $62.3 billion in funding over the next two decades. However, timelines for most major investments were not so clear, and there are significant delays in spending, with some funding not expected to open up until after the next election. Given the 2017 Budget announcement, The Royal Canadian Legion was not surprised to see a lack of details and delays in spending around equipment acquisition, maintenance and operational capability. Our concern is that the delay in new spending now could be affected by cost-cutting in the future. It is the Legion’s position that military equipment acquisition and maintenance is essential to supporting the operational capability, training and safety of Canada’s military personnel, and the security of our nation. The Legion stands firm that the government must allocate funds to support military equipment acquisition and renewal now. Our personnel are the most valuable resource, and we want our military to have the tools, resources, training and support to protect our serving men and women,

ensure they can do their job, and come home safely. In yesterday’s announcement, the Department of National Defence recognized that people are the Canadian Armed Forces’ most valuable asset. The Defence Policy highlights a renewed focus on ‘Putting people first’, which includes health and wellness supports for its members, improved transition for ill and injured Veterans to civilian life, a plan to support military families, and greater cooperation between the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada. Also outlined in the policy was an increase in personnel to sustain operations, support new priorities and deliver on new investments. As part of that, the Department of National Defence will grow their forces by 3,500 Regular Forces and 1,500 Reserve Forces. The Legion was pleased to see a renewed emphasis on the care and support for our military members and their families from enrolment to post release, a cradle to grave philosophy. Of course, the devil is in the details, and the Legion urges the Department of National Defence to share more details on what, when, and how they will deliver on their promises. Perhaps more importantly, as Canada commits our soldiers, sailors and airmen and airwomen around the world, our Government must be prepared to look after them when they come home. The Government of Canada must reaffirm their solemn obligation to Canada’s Veterans. For those who served to protect the very rights and freedoms we enjoy today, The Royal Canadian Legion stands committed, working to ensure the care and benefits of Canada’s Veterans are the best they can possibly be and that all governments honour their obligations to the men and women who serve in the Canadian Armed Forces.

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 9

100th Anniversary of the Battle

of Vimy Ridge

Members of Branch 34 and their colour party joined with the members of the Champlain Seniors Service Club to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge

The Service of Remembrance was held in Veterans’ Memorial Park.

VET’S GAZETTE

Branch 34

Financial Summary for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2017

12 Months ending 12 Months ending May 31, 2017 May 31, 2016

Bar revenue $291,549 $308,068 Cost of goods sold 142,527 154,362 Gross Bar profit 149,022 $154,506 Gross Profit %age 51.1% 50.1%

Committee revenue $48,643 $41,782 Committee expenses 49,069 46,218 Committee profit (loss) $ (426) $ (4,436)

Revenue-Ways & Means $33,282 $40,023 Expenses-Ways & Means 9,206 12,779 Ways & Means profit $24,076 $27,244 Revenue-Normandy Room $54,000 $ 39,744 Expenses-Normandy Room ----- 14,673 Normandy profit $54,000 $ 25,071

Member Fees-net $17,579 $18,950

Other Income $28,969 $35,722 Expenses Building $66,491 $70,463 Payroll 142,587 139,592 Administration 55,044 45,093 Total Expense $264,122 $255,148

Net Profit (loss) $ 9,098 $ 1,909

Cash less payables $ 5,214 Bingo Bank Account $ 1,400 Nevada Bank Account $ 3,000

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 11

Treasurer’s Comments July 2017

Financial statements May 31, 2017: Profit & Loss June 1 to May 31, 2017; 1. Bar sales for the twelve months ended May 31, 2017 were $16,600 less than the twelve months ending May 31, 2016. Branch bar sales are approximately 5% less than last years’ bar sales mainly due to the Normandy room loss of bar sales. 2. Bar gross profit for the 12 months ended May 31, 2017 is 51.1% (50.1% in 2016); Gross profit for the 12 months to May 31, 2017 is $5,500 less than the 12 months to May 31, 2016. 3. Committee loss for the 12 months ended May 31, 2017 is $4,000 less than the 12 months to May 31, 2016 mainly resulting from Scottish Festival and Legends increased profits. 4. Ways and Means profit for the 12 months ending May 31, 2017 is $3,200 less than the 12 months to May 31, 2016 mainly resulting from repairs to a pool table & reduced table revenues of $3,000 & reduced Friday night dart/ draw revenues of $3,000 offset by a $1,700 Dr. Krane profit and a $1,000 increase in Ride for Dad profit. 5. Normandy room profit for the 12 months ended May 31, 2017 is $28,900 more than last year’s profit due to the rental of the room to the Bingo Hall. 6. Membership fees are $1,300 less or about 60 members less than last year at this time. 7. Other income is $6,700 less for the 12 months to May 31, 2017 as compared to the 12 months to May 31, 2016 mainly due to a decrease in donations. 8. Operating expenses are $9,000 more than last years’ expenses with Building costs being $4,000 less this year, Administration costs being $10,000 more mainly due to the Dominion convention expense, complimentary coffee and drinks

and increased advertising costs and Payroll being $3,000 or 2% more this year than in 2016. 8. Operations had a profit of $9,098 for the 12 months ended May 31, 2017 as compared to a profit of $1,909 for the 12 months ended May 31, 2016. Balance Sheet-May 31, 2017; 1. Retained earnings at May 31, 2017 were $17,589. 2. Cash on hand was $71,194. 3. Accounts payable & reserve liabilities including the Horizon Grant and other Kitchen donations were $76,408 leaving a negative cash balance of $5,214 at May 31, 2017. 4. The Bingo and Nevada bank accounts have a balance of $4,400.

Respectively submitted,

Brian Robertson

Treasurer

Play

Catch The Ace

A new ticket is drawn every Monday.

It could be yours !!!

Tickets are $5.00 each and are

available in the office, at the bar or on Friday nights during meat darts and draws.

VET’S GAZETTE

Scottish Festival

V olunteers are always needed to

help make the Scottish Festival a

success. This is the 40th year of the

festival and we are celebrating the 150th

Anniversary of the Incorporation on the

City of Orillia and well as Confederation.

The festival runs Friday, July 14 to

Sunday July 16. Volunteers are especially

needed on Saturday, July 15. If you can

give any time that day please contact the

office and a committee member will

contact you. Volunteers are required for:

Parking

Button Sales

Parade

Set Up

Take Down

Watering the bands

All help is greatly appreciated.

Chuck Penny

Chairman, Orillia Scottish Festival

Committee

Orillia Tartan

W ork has been done to

complete a tartan for the

City of Orillia. Currently the tartan has

been submitted to Tartan Registry in

Scotland and will be a registered

tartan.

Pre-orders for items made in the

Orillia Tartan are currently being

accepted at the legion office. Please

contact Cindy for further details.

Products available include: ties $30.00;

scarves $35.00; blankets $80.00 and a

metre of material $60.00.

If interested please contact the

legion at 705-325-8442 so that orders can

be placed.

Chuck Penny

Come to the

Ceilidh Friday, July 14

7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30)

Vimy Room Royal Canadian Legion,

Branch 34 Enjoy Pipes and Drums, Highland

Dancers and some traditional Celtic

music with

Tom Leadbeater

$15.00 per person Tickets available at the

door or call

705-325-8442

Enjoy a light lunch,

cash bar, door prizes,

and many laughs

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 13

Gearls Night at the Legion Featuring Gearl Jam

and SMW (Slow Motion Walter)

Saturday, August 26 Doors Open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 9 p.m.

$15.00 per person

Includes pizza slice, Caesar salad

and bottle of water

Gift bag for first 100 women through the

door !

Oh - boys are welcome too !!!

Gearls Night Out

VET’S GAZETTE

100th Anniversary, RFC, RAF and

RCAF

O n a beautiful Saturday Morning CAF members and

veterans attended Base Borden to Commemorate the 100

th Anniversary

of the RFC, RAF, and RCAF to rededicate the memorial to those past and present who served. A full military parade was held with all of the protocols for such an event fully followed. It was a new experience for many of the legion members but they performed

extremely well. Branch 34,Orillia attended with ten members There were 4 others from the legions in the area. We were on parade with peacekeeper veterans and others. Although well promoted throughout District E the lack of attendance on parade was noticeable. The veterans led the parade under the command of a WO 1 RCAF. Several fly pasts took place during the ceremonies with both old and newer aircraft participating. All in all a great day. Following the parade we visited a display with aircraft from the First World War and up to current times.

Colin Wackett, Zone E4 PRO

Wife sends a text message to her husband on a really cold winter morning: Windows are totally frozen, will not open. Husband replies: “Carefully pour some warm water over it and tap the edges first with your hand, if that doesn’t work, then gently with a hammer.” 15 minutes later, the wife texts back: “Oh no, I think the laptop is now totally gone.”

Among the Branch 34 members at the 100th Anniversary of the RFC, RAF and RCAF, were from left to right: Cliff Vardy, Harold Durant Jr.,

Bob Dimaline, Rich Percy, John Cropper, Gerry Henry and Rick Crouch.

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 15

EXCLUSIVE OFFER TO LEGION MEMBERS Doolittle-Carson Funeral Home is proud to offer, to all Legion Vets and Members in

good standing, a very special offer on funeral planning.

This deeply discounted offer is being made to all members with proof of current

membership in good standing.

This includes pre-planned and at time of need funeral arrangements.

At the time of planning we will ask about any Legion arrangements you might wish to include, ad-

vise of any Veterans benefits that might apply, assist with completion of documents both prior to

and following the funeral services.

Due to the nature of this offer we must restrict it to members in good standing only.

For information please call or speak to Branch 34 member COLIN WACKETT

This is a service….FOR LEGION MEMBERS….BY LEGION MEMBERS

Phone 326-3595 email: [email protected]

Editorial Happy 150th birthday Canada. Happy 150th birthday Orillia. As we head into summer, we at Branch 34 have a lot to be thankful for and much to look forward to. We’re thankful that the floor in the Tri-Service Room is finally finished and looks amazing. We’re thankful for the staff and volunteers who do such a great job for us. We’re thankful for the Scottish Festival and look forward to celebrating their 40th Anniversary on July 14, 15 and 16. This year instead of honouring a single clan the festival will celebrate the sesquicentennial of Canada and Orillia. The festival of course will be highlighted by the Parade of Pipes and Drums down Mississaga Street to Couchiching Beach Park on Saturday, July 15. A great afternoon has been planned in the park which includes the ever-popular sheep dog demonstrations, children’s village, pub tent, competitions, highland dancers and much, much more. We look forward to “Gearls Night” on August 26– something new for the branch which sounds like a lot of fun. We are thankful and look forward to the new kitchen that will be built downstairs with construction starting in the late summer or early fall. While a lot of the work is being done by volunteers, donations are being accepted to help offset some of the costs. We are thankful that the branch and ladies auxiliary have both elected full slates of officers. And most of all we are thankful for our veterans and are grateful for their service. We look forward to sharing an evening with them at the annual Veterans’ Dinner on September 19, a night of great comradeship and good food.


Kate Palmer, Editor

VET’S GAZETTE

Back By Popular Demand

President Rick Purcell, right, presents medals and bars for the past term to from the left: Bob Dimaline Membership Chairman; John Cropper, Poppy Chairman; Harold Durant Jr. 1st Vice President; and Neville Gale, Sports Officer

Installation of Officers Rick Purcell is installed as President of Branch 34 for his second two year term

The colour guard is Ralph Bernard, left and Rick Crouch.

Below left Peter DeVillers is presented for installation as Branch 34 Service Officer by

Sergeant-at-Arms Cliff Vardy.

Below right, Acting Sergeant-at-arms Barb Hird presents Cliff Vardy to installing officer

Colin Wackett.

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 17

Back By Popular Demand

Dr. Krane Saturday,

September 23

Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 9 p.m.

Only $15.00 per person

(includes pizza slice, Caesar salad and bottle of

water)

VET’S GAZETTE

The Legion celebrates Canada’s Invictus team Dominion Command Press Release Jun 19, 2017 Team Canada’s second – and final – training camp for the Invictus Games Toronto 2017 wrapped up in Kingston, ON. on Friday, June 16. That evening, the chair of the Legion membership committee, Tom Irvine, hosted the entire team at a closing reception at Branch 560. In his pre-dinner remarks, he delivered the Legion’s heart-felt congratulations and best wishes to the athletes. Later, he presented each team member and all training staff with a gift package that included a We Support Our Troops 24 kt. gold ribbon pin. “We are very proud to be associated with the upcoming Invictus Games,” Irvine says. “We’re especially happy to salute the serving members and Veterans who have earned the privilege of wearing the maple leaf for Team Canada.” That evening, he also took the opportunity to express the Legion’s appreciation for the remarkable work done by Soldier On. This organization, led by founder Greg Lagacé, encourages and supports Veterans with physical or mental health injuries to develop new skills and build confidence through physical activity and sport. As a way to further salute the Veterans’ hard work, achievements and commitment, the Legion asked Soldier On to let team members know they are eligible for a free one-year membership. “We were happy to pass on Legion membership application forms to the team members,” Lagacé said. “It’s a great way to end a very successful training camp and, at the same time, look to the future.” The Legion is grateful to Branch 560 for its hospitality and to its past-president Al Jones and service officer Merrill Gooderham for being on hand to welcome Team Canada. “Legion members across the country are looking forward to cheering on the more than 550 wounded servicemen and women from the 17 allied nations competing this September in Toronto,” says Irvine.

Quilt of Valour

Veteran and Branch 34 member Don Wilkie, centre was the recipient of one of four Quilts of Valour made by the Orillia Quilters Guild. He received the quilt from

Alice Hutt of the Guild and Branch 34 Service Officer Peter DeVillers

Chicken Dinner

On Friday, July 14,

Friday, August 11

Friday, September 15

Enjoy Chicken dinner at 6 p.m. prepared by the Branch 34

Ladies Auxiliary

ONLY $12.00

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 19

The Branch 34 Poppy

Committee

Invites all veterans to the annual

VETERANS’

DINNER Tuesday,

September 19 Dinner at 5 p.m.

In the Vimy Room

Branch 34, Royal Canadian Legion

This invitation is extended to all veterans in the Orillia area. If you know a veteran who you think would like to attend please

let him/her know. The veteran DOES NOT have to be a Legion member.

We will arrange transportation for those who need it.

Watch the bulletin boards for more details as the date becomes closer.

RESERVATIONS WILL NOT BE TAKEN UNTIL AFTER

SEPTEMBER 1ST

Watch the bulletin boards for details of upcoming

Steak BBQ’s July 21,

September 8

Only $12.00

Great Meal, Great Price!

New Trees A number of new trees, including apple and pear trees were planted at the Legion Crest Complex. Helping with the work were board

member Peter DeVillers, left and complex staff members, Ellie Drury, Pauline Reilly,

Daphne Tarrant and Steve Bloom

VET’S GAZETTE

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1

Happy Canada

Day

2 3 Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

4 Euchre 1 pm

L.A. Meeting 7 p.m

5 Executive Meeting

6 7 Meat Darts & Draws 5 p.m.

8

9 10 Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

11 Euchre 1 p.m.

12 13 14 Meat

Darts & Draws 5 p.m.

Chicken Dinner 6 p.m

15

Scottish Festival

16

Scottish Festival continues

17 Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

18 Euchre 1 p.m.

19 20 21 Meat Darts & Draws 5 p.m.

Steak BBQ

22

23 24 Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

25 Euchre 1 p.m.

26 27 28 Meat Darts & Draws 5 p.m.

29

30 31 Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

July 2017

During the afternoon of the Scottish Festival the Ladies Auxiliary will be serving Peameal

Bacon on a bun at the Branch

JUL Y 2017 PAGE 21


1

Euchre 1 p.m.

L.A. Meeting 7 p.m

2

Executive Meeting

3 4

Meat Darts & Draws 5 p.m.

5

6 7

Civic Holiday Bid Euchre

1 p.m.

8

Euchre 1 p.m.

9 10 11


Chicken Dinner 6 p.m

12

13 14

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

15

Euchre 1 p.m.

16 17 18


19

20 21

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

22

Euchre 1 p.m.

23 24 25


26

Gearl’s Night (see

ad page 13)

27 28

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

29

Euchre 1 p.m.

30 31

August 2017

VET’S GAZETTE


1


2

3 4

Labour

Day

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

5

Euchre 1 pm

L.A. Meeting 7 p.m

6

Executive Meeting

7 8


Steak BBQ 6 p.m.

9

10 11

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

12

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

13

General Meeting

Dinner 6:30

Meeting 7:30

14 15


Chicken Dinner 6 p.m.

16

17 18

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

19

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

20 21 22


23

Dr. Krane returns

(see page 17)

24 25

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

26

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

27 28

Ruck Walk with

Georgian college

29


30

September 2017

JUL Y 201 7 PAGE 23


1 2

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

3

Euchre 1 pm

Men’s Darts

L.A. Meeting 7 p.m.

4

Executive Meeting

5 6


7

8 9

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

10

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

11

General Meeting

Dinner 6:30

Meeting 7:30

12 13


14

15 16

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

17

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

18 19 20


21

22 23

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

24

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

25 26 27


28

29 30

Bid Euchre 1 p.m.

Ladies Darts

31

Euchre 1 p.m.

Men’s Darts

October 2017

40th Annual Orillia Scottish Festival

Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Incorporation of the City of Orillia and Confederation

July 14, 15 and 16 Ceilidh in the Vimy Room Friday at 7 p.m.

(note new start time)

Pipe Band performances, Highland Dancing

Tom Leadbeater

Saturday Parade of Pipes and Drums starts at noon

(down Mississaga St. E., to Couchiching Beach Park)

Opening Ceremonies and Massed Bands at 1:15 p.m.

Festivities continue during the day with competitions, Scottish Entertainment, Festival Pub, Highland Dancing, children’s village,

sheep dog demonstration and vendors

Massed pipes and drums and awards presentation at 5:15 p.m.

Ceilidh in the Tri Service Room

Sunday at 2 p.m. Tom Leadbeater, Scottish entertainment,

Highland Dancers

Everyone welcome!

july 2017 vet’s gazette - royal canadian legion branch 34 · chairman, ron goebel. to date...

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