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,Y railway car in the country; the system, TRACS, is still in existence today. "As part of that process, I had to physically confirm that the tracks we thought were there were actually there. So I had walk every piece of track in Montreal and Toronto to map out the track system," he said. He'll always remember his one-year consulting stint in Rio de Janiero studying how to improve and modernize Brazil's railway system. "It was a very interesting and challenging experience and my wife and two of our kids were there with me and they had an interesting year as well." Allison retired from the railway in June 1986. A few days later, the family returned to Belleville and he began volunteering. He joined the Kiwanis Club of Belleville in 1988. "I was inspired by the Kiwanians I knew when I was in BCI's Key Club sponsored by Kiwanis. They did a lot of good in the community back then and I knew I wanted to do that some day as well." He served on the board in almost every capacity, including president, and was lieutenant governor of the division. He's heavily involved with the Terrific Kids program and participates in the all-star reading program at Park Dale School where he helps a particular student learn to read. He's had a 15-year association with the Ontario Lung Association, ever since his wife was diagnosed asthmatic in 1983. Twelve of those years were with the Hastings and Prince Edward branch. "It was during my stint as president that the local lung association started the Festival of Trees on its own at the Bay of Quinte Golf and Country Club. We had it there for two years and then we realized we needed a partner (Quinte Arts Council) to realize its true potential," Allison said. The Habitat for Humanity supporter said he's also looking forward to its third build later this year. St. Thomas Anglican Church plays an important role in Allison's life. He's been warden and sits on various committees and has been running its Christmas Sharing program for the past eight years. "I'm always involved with something in the church," he said. Allison credits his family for being by his side through all his endeavours. "I wouldn't have accomplished any of what I have been able to without the active support of my wife of 46 years, Catherine, and my three children. They had to tolerate moving, leaving friends and schools and adjusting to new commiinities and they did so without much complaining." STORY BY HENRY BURY o i -cc r