CANADA: Newfoundland

Dwight Peterson writes: "In answer to Paul Simon's query, while stationed on the banks of the lovely Lake Quidi Vidi in St. Johns, Newfoundland in the late '50's I did, indeed try Newfie screech! Canada sold alcoholic beverages only through its state controlled outlets, so screech, thrived as a locally bootlegged product. All I ever knew was that it was rum based and incredibly strong and that one only bought it from good Newfie friends because rumors of occasional batches causing blindness etc. were rampant. Given its totally unregulated and illicit production, it seemed good advice. Paul Simon says that a US soldier is credited with inventing screech. I had never heard that before and always had been told it was invented by Newfie fishermen. When I was in Newfoundland the US military had a naval base in Placentia, and an Air base in St. Johns with the airport at Torbay. There was a very small contingent of army in St. Johns, of which I was a part. I question Paul's statement as to the origin of screech" My comment: Probably Paul and Dwight were the only WAISers familiar with Newfoundland screech, and already they are screeching at each other about it. In this debate, I am neutral. Let the best screech win.

Ronald Hilton - 7/27/02