May, 2009 Issue 47 RAINY RIVER, DISTRICT 1
Special Interest! MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
• Welcome to our new Let me begin by wishing valued and it is the hope glorious history of our members: all of you a spring and of RTO to continue to see great District. You are PENNY NEWMAN summer filled with great that your retirement is as always graciously JACK HEDMAN joy and opportunities to stress free as possible. welcome to participate CAROL ROGOZA visit with family and We have a strong local and encouraged to speak friends, for safe travel and Board and several out if you require • UPCOMING many thanks for all the committees for whom we assistance or know of a EVENTS – Important volunteer work you do in cannot thank them friend who could use a Dates on Page 5 your community and have enough for their hand up. In closing, I ask done for the educational dedication. Each year we all of you to be proud of •CONGRATULATIONS system of this fine District. strive to bring our retired your accomplishments Certificates of Recognition to The Retired Teachers of members and guests, be and continue to find ways CARROLL McFAYDEN Ontario is a strong they former active to build a better future for ANGELA LaFOREST advocate of senior issues, teachers or educational RTO, our communities BOB BARRON especially in the Health support staff from and our personal See Page 11 and Recreational fields Atikokan to Rainy River to journeys. and I am proud to serve a common meeting place Sincerely, as your President to bring to tell stories and meet our concerns and new folks. Always the Larry R. Brown Highlights: achievements to the highlight is a review in provincial table. You are print and pictures of the Executive Board 2 Budget 3 Atikokan Report 4 DISTRICT 1 GENERAL MEETING Goodwill Report 5 Thursday, June 18, 2009 Health Report 6 La Place Rendez-Vous Recent Members 12 In Memoriam 13 Social – 11:00 a.m. Luncheon – 12:00 noon
SERVED LUNCHEON
Pork Cutlets Piccatta Mixed Salad Greens Oven Roasted Potatoes Green Beans Almandine Chocolate Mousse Coffee Tea
REMEMBER the Non-perishable or Monetary Donation For the Salvation Army Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009 Page 2 of 14
Our District Representatives DISTRICT 1 EXECUTIVE BOARD are District 1, RTO/ERO January, 2009 to December, 2010 communication link throughout the District. They Immediate Past President – Bob Barron (274-9208) attend District Executive President – Larry Brown (597-6196) Board Meetings. Any First Vice President – Mariette McRae (274-7258) concerns or information you Second Vice President – Mel McFayden (274-3136) may have regarding RTO may be channelled through Treasurer - Len LaRocque (274-9593) your District Representatives. Secretary - Betty Ann LaRocque (274-9593)
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS PHONING COMMITTEE RECRUITMENT - Freeda Carmody (486-3338) Edie Frenette - Committee Chair - GOODWILL - Carroll McFayden (274-3136) 274-7421 HEALTH, INSURANCE – Mariette McRae (274-3338) Fort Frances and Ralph Brown (597-6196) Irene Hill-Haver - 274-3091 POLITICAL ACTION - Gary Gamsby (483-5435) Gordon Ross - 274-6959 PENSION, RETIREMENT - Larry Brown (597-6196) Jan Marshall - 274-2254 COMMUNICATIONS - Carroll McFayden (274-3136) Edie Frenette - 274-7421 and Angela LaForest (274-6806) Jeannine Cornell - 486-3481 (Spare) (Typing) - Carol Lyons Emo (Copy and Mail) - Jim and Freeda Carmody Joyce Meyers - 482-2086 ARCHIVES - Carroll McFayden (274-3136) June Winik - 482-2451 PHONING - Edwina Frenette (274-7421) Rainy River SOCIAL – Sallee Dick (275-7521) Don Ricci - 852-3704 PURCHASING - Barb Cousineau (274-4472) Atikokan WEBSITE - Don Ricci (852-3704) Sally Speck - 597-2219 DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES Emo - Joyce Meyers - (482-2086) We remind you to please notify Rainy River - Don Ricci - (852-3704) Edie (274-7421) if you wish to Atikokan - Pam Money - (597-4348) attend a meeting and have not been contacted by the phoning committee. If unable to attend after registering, please call to cancel or you will be expected to The cost to District 1 for meals pay for your meal. SUBSIDIZED MEALS POLICY in the last two years has ranged It is the policy of District 1 to from $18.00 to $33.00 with the Meeting dates are set in advance. average being $26.00 per meal. Sometimes circumstances require a subsidize the cost of the luncheon change to be made. The newsletter at all general meetings. The phoning committee volunteers call If you are unable to attend after is one tool used to inform members each member to determine the registering, you must call Edwina of upcoming events. It is not number of meals to be ordered. Frenette (274-7421) to cancel. If always possible to inform our Members pay a flat fee of $10.00. you fail to cancel two days prior to members of a date change. The Remainder of the cost for each the meeting you are expected to final notification of our meetings meal is paid by District 1. pay for your meal. We sincerely comes through the phoning request your co-operation. committee. Page 3 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009 er Title RTO District 1 Budget 2008 Actual 2009 Proposed Revenue District Grant $ 12,197.00 $ 12,669.00
Proj. Serv. Others 2,500.00 Other 3.132.75 3,000.00 TREASURER’S REPORT TOTAL 17,829.75 15,669.00 April 23, 2009
Expenses RTO District 1 ended the year Good Will $ 715.26 $ 750.00 with $4,833.00 in the bank. A Recruitment 159.39 300.00 District grant of $12,197.00 has Exec. Meetings 654.02 700.00 District Meetings 7,981.58 8,335,00 been received, of which Newsletter 796.76 800.00 $2,534.00 has been transferred Office 201.39 250.00 to Atikokan as their Unit Grant. Transportation 919.34 1,000.00 The current bank balance is Unit Grant 2,439.00 2,534.00 Archives 168.64 200.00 $17,424.13.
Purchases 453.90 600.00 The District 1 Financial Donations Statement for the period January Political Action 1 – December 31, 2008 was Website 176.42 200.00 Proj. Serv. Others 2,966.62 . audited by Gordon Ross and Jack Dillon. TOTALS $ 17,632.32 $ 15,669.00
NOTE 1: Bank balance on Jan. 1, 2009 $ 4,832.94 NOTE 2: Bank balance on April 23, 2009 $17,424.13
Submitted by Len LaRocque, District 1 Treasurer DISTRICT 1 WEBSITE REPORT www.rtodistrictone.ca MEMBERSHIP REPORT SPRING SENATE is the address of our District 1 RTO/ERO Rainy River is President Larry Brown and local website. Check now 227 members strong. New Second Vice President Mel it out! Go to our retirees are Alfred Cotterill, Penny McFayden will be attending the photo gallery and see Newman and Jim Newman. New Spring Senate, May 25 – 27 in the many pictures members to our RTO/ERO Toronto. Often we do not publish taken at our local organization are: a district newsletter which events. The link page coincides with receipt of the can connect you to the Penny Newman senate reports from our district Jack Hedman provincial website. senators. The Renaissance Information about our Carol Rogoza publications contain detailed local district can be reports of senate business. If you Welcome to RTO/ERO! More wish to obtain a copy of our found there as well. If members give us a strong voice! District Senate reports they are you have suggestions, available through our secrtary, email Don Ricci: Freeda Carmody (Membership) Betty Ann LaRocque, 274-9593. [email protected] Page 4 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009 er Title ATIKOKAN UNIT, DISTRICT 1 RTO/ERO REPORT
Another winter has come and gone – a over to the District Secretary at our windy winter with lots of snow and extremely Executive Meeting in Fort Frances last cold temperatures for long periods of time. Thursday. Atikokan’s Larry Brown has now Some have labelled it an “old-fashioned” taken over as the District President and we winter. Many are heaving a sigh of relief – wish him well in his new endeavours. Spring is here with its warmer temperatures. In December Larry Brown initiated Spring also means the return of those who discussions with Eva Shields re: the newly vacationed in warmer climates for the winter formed Community Youth Group in months. Welcome back! It’s good to have Atikokan. They had secured property and Congratulations you home! were putting up a building where Atikokan’s to Atikokan Unit Last December 10th, Georgette Rawlings, youth could gather to read, perform on for their initiative Lyn Williams and Pam Money organized a musical instruments and socialize, etc. in securing Christmas Luncheon for our Atikokan Unit. When Larry headed off to Florida, Lyn “Service Project Thirty plus members enjoyed a traditional Williams worked diligently in an attempt to to Others” funds Christmas turkey dinner at the Royal secure funds from the RTO Project Service for the newly- Canadian Legion. Cathy Burton was on to Others. As of today we don’t know the formed Atikokan hand with her energized choirs from North results but we thank both of these people Community Youth Star Community School who put on a for the hard work they put forward on the marvellous performance of tunes and project. Group challenged everyone to get into the spirit of Great news! Atikokan Unit received a Christmas. $3,000.00 grant from Provincial Office. Gord Martin continues to accept Congratulations! donations for our “Educational Scholarship April 30th Larry Brown and I will head to Fund” so, once again, come June, we will be the Rendez-Vous to enjoy the District able to award a scholarship to a graduating General Meeting. Atikokan will host their student who is accepted into an educational Unit General Meeting on May 20th at the program. Legion O’Brien Street. If anyone from the We are pleased to welcome Ralph District wishes to attend please contact Lyn Brown to our Atikokan Executive as the Williams at 597-6505. Political Action representative. He got his I hope everyone has a chance to get feet wet in March when he attended his first outside to enjoy the nicer weather. meeting in Toronto. His report was turned Pam Money Atikokan Unit Rep
RTO – SERVICE TO OTHERS APPLICATION
The Atikokan Unit of the RR of methodologies to reach present a long term site and District has taken the torch for students, to spring loose tools for our youth to demonstrate 2009 and applied for a $4000.00 sometimes hidden talent, and, to leadership and ownership while grant to assist the Youth promote the value of a well RTO can be proud to continue Initiatives Program to obtain rounded education. Sometimes to support our community’s musical and arts equipment, our troubled youth need more students. Our thanks go out to conduct workshops in a soon to support in a neutral setting to Lyn Williams, Unit President, be finished Youth Centre in bring them back on track and feel Pam Money, District Rep, and downtown Atikokan. Teachers a valued part of the community. Eva Shields, President of the have always supported a variety This grant will go a long way to Youth Initiatives Program. Bon chance et merci. Page 5 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
RTO/ERO District One Executive Report – Leadership Workshop by Larry Brown
On April 15 and 16 a total of 70 participants, recognized by the intensity of discussion, amount of including 10 executive members, spent eight hours laughter, balance of listening and verbal exchanges on with 2 key guest speakers – Michael Lewis of Michael topic, staying on time and task, agreeing to continue Lewis Training of Leaders, London, Ontario, and reaching a chosen goal. Larry Mogelonsky of LMA Communications, Toronto. Each speaker sought to raise our awareness to the In particular, I enjoyed the examples of meetings dynamics of leadership and reinforce the goals of our beginning with a guiding statement, conversation, organization. High on the list were these time-proven building stronger frameworks in policy, expanding job guideposts which can be used in any volunteer descriptions for new recruits, hiring support services organization on which we serve: when necessary, keeping the socials fun and informative ( i.e., more line dancing) and, lastly, Effective Communication and Often recognizing that time and productivity are important to Positive Attitudes and Collegial Support our aging but busy population. We all need to run on Vision and Goals fully inflated tires, with as full a tank of gas as possible Planning and Execution and a highly alert GPS system. Consensus and Harmony Rewards and Successes Check out the handouts on Leadership, articles in Greater Good and Volunteerism the Renaissance (travel, photos) and especially the article on Annie Jean McLendon Gibson, now of Successful boards and committees are Thunder Bay, but taught in Emo/Barick in 1949-63.
DATES TO REMEMBER May 25-27 Spring Senate (Toronto) June 3 District 1 Executive Meeting, La Place Rendez-Vous (10:00 a.m.) See you all at June 18 District 1 Spring General Meeting, La Place Rendez-Vous the District 1 (Social at 11:00, Lunch at 12:00) Spring General June 7-8 Health Conference, Toronto Meeting on Sept. 9 District 1 Executive Meeting, La Place Rendez-Vous (10:00 a.m.) Thursday, June 18 Oct. 22 District 1 Annual General Meeting, Location to be announced later Social, 11:00 (Social at 11:00, Lunch at 12:00) Lunch, 12:00 Oct. 26-28 Fall Senate Meeting (Toronto) Dec. 3 District 1 Christmas Social, Location to be announced later REMEMBER your (Social at 11:00, Lunch at 12:00) Salvation Army Donation Thursday, October 15, a Retirement Planning Workshop Project (PPW) has been scheduled for teachers planning to retire within the next 5 years. Larry Brown and Freeda Carmody are in charge of this project, with assistance from Joyce Meyers. Page 6 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
POLITICAL ACTION WORKSHOP READ ALERT March 8 and 9, 2009 The spring 2009 edition of Renaissance is a must Ralph Brown (Atikokan Unit) is District 1 read. The article that caught our attention is entitled, “Profile of a Prairier Pioneer at 100,” RTO/ERO’s Political Action Chair. He submitted by Margaret Ann Lorimer, District 2, attended the Political Action Workshop in Thunder Bay. It profiles the career of Annie Jean Toronto in March. The workshop was divided McLendon Gibson who taught in the Emo area into distinct sessions with the presenters before 1963. You meet a fascinating woman who experienced in each particular arena. had been part of the rich educational heritage of 1. Lobbying – presenter Cliff Huber, OTF our District. Political Action Committee and presenter Len Domino, Government POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE Specialist. Needs New Members 2. Revised PAC Manual – presenter Gary Zink, OTF Political Action The Political Action Committee is in need Committee of members under the chair, Ralph Brown 3. Advocacy – presenter Susan Eng, of Atikokan. THE PAC seeks to monitor the Vice-President, Advocacy, CARP needs of seniors, retired educators or not, 4. District Liaison Group Division and the new or cancelled programs of the Ralph felt that our District 1 is behind most respective governments to see if our quality other districts in our region with regard to of life is improved or seriously jeopardized. Political Action. Most districts have active The scope is as large as you want but committees of several members. He necessary in our program of advocacy of recommends that established goals set by seniors’ programs. Please consider joining the Executive Board and Political Action and help us help the governments prepare Committee would make this committee more for a future of active seniors. productive. Anyone wanting further Contact Ralph Brown, Political Action information on any of the sessions, handouts Committee Chair, if you would be interested are available. in serving on this committee, or if you have Ralph Brown questions about committee focus. 807-597- Political Action Chair 2233
NEWSLETTER SUBMISSIONS Articles are required for consideration for inclusion SALVATION ARMY FOOD BANK in future issues. Do you have: The Salvation Army Food Bank is always in * information you would like to see in the need of contributions. The District 1 Executive newsletter Board has decided to * an account of an unusual holiday provide the opportunity for * an important question members to make * special memories of a colleague or student donations at all meetings. * items of humour (credit source) The executive has WRITE TO TELL US! arranged to have the food and c/o Angela LaForest c/o Carroll McFayden monetary donations delivered on 1039 River Road 209 Armit Avenue your behalf. Your generosity is most Fort Frances, ON Fort Frances, ON appreciated. P9A 2V3 P9A 2H1 Page 7 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
ARCHIVAL REPORT HOME SECURITY Precautions to Increase the Security in your Home The Renaissance magazine article on Alice Irvine, a member of RTO/ERO District 1 Rainy When it comes to the protection of your family and River, under the title, “A Rainy River the security of your property, there are some simple Remembrance” has been placed into our Photo steps you can take to increase both. Album as part of the district archives. As noted in Pretending to be the Criminal the article (Fall, 2008), “She left the profession in 1973 with 32 years of experience. Now 95, she One of the best ways to increase the security of has been retired 35 years – three years longer our home is to pretend to be “the criminal.” Walk out than she has taught. She still marvels at how her to the street and study your own property, all the while monthly pension cheque today far exceeds her asking yourself how you would defeat the home first yearly salary of $800. The article was written security of this home. A few tips are: by Jacqueline Black from District 2, Thunder Bay. . Provide sufficient lighting around the home It is a gift to our area to have a record of the life and near entrances. experience, with photos, of Alice’s recollections. . Ensure all doors and locks are secured Carroll McFayden strongly to avoid them being entered easily. Archival Chairperson . If you have a security system or a dog, post signs indicating their presence. . Minimize places criminals could hide if they were trying to gain entrance to the home. Introducing New District 1 President LARRY BROWN Doors, Windows and Lighting Locking doors and windows are just two of the Larry was born in Fort Frances and raised many precautions to take. on a farm north of Stratton with four siblings. . Are the doorframes strong enough to He attended one room schools in Pattullo for withstand a kick or pry bar? his elementary school education and bused . Is the exterior door made of solid wood or to Rainy River for his secondary schooling. metal and is there glass in the door or on the side within three feet of the inside lock? He graduated from Lakehead Teachers’ . Is there a deadbolt lock that extends a College, and furthered his education at the minimum of 1 inch into the doorframe and is University of Waterloo, Lakehead University the area reinforced with steel? and Nipissing University, graduating with . Can the lock be reached from the outside with specialties in Environmental Studies, Special a hanger through the mail slot or pet door? Education, Curriculum and Supervisory . Is there landscaping hiding the sight of anyone Officer Studies. Larry taught 33 years, most trying to break in? of them in Atikokan, retiring in 1999. He . Is the door and surrounding area well lit so married Lauren and together they raised four you can identify who is at the door? children and delight in their six grandchildren. They spend summers on Turtle Lake north of Atikokan and winters in RTO MERCHANDISE AVAILABLE Panama City Beach, Florida. He is an active There will be new RTO/ERO items for sale at member of the Church of the Good our June 18 Annual General Meeting at La Shepherd, the Atikokan Kiwanis Club, Royal Place Rendez-Vous. RTO sweatshirts with a Canadian Legion, and, he is an Easter Seals copper logo on the chest are now available. advocate. He enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting, Glass drinking mugs, playing cards and cotton cooking, cards, small town politics and canvas totes have been added to the list of working hard for RTO/ERO District 1. articles on display. Come and check it out the golf shirts! Barb Cousineau, 274-4472, Purchasing Page 8 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
GOODWILL REPORT Cards Sent Out 2008 Sept. 20 Al Lowe (Thank you, supplied biography for newsletter) Oct. 8 Dale and Mary Cooper (Congratulations, son Neal inducted into Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame) Oct. 8 Joseph and Gabriel Marohnic (Welcome back to Atikokan – new home) Oct. 8 Gary Gamsby (Congratulations: awarded the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association Award for long-serving service (26 years plus 2 present terms) Oct. 12 Barb Ross (Thinking of you – surgery) Oct. 12 Alice Irvine (Thinking of you – article published in Renaissance, Fall, 2008, “A Rainy River Remembrance”) Oct. 12 Sallee Dick (Welcome to RTO/ERO District 1 Executive Board as Social Chairman) Oct. 12 Mel McFayden (Welcome to RTO/ERO District 1 Executive Board as 2nd Vice President) Oct. 14 Trisha Wood, Cindy Gauthier (Thank you for presentation, “Diabetes and Nutrition – October Annual Meeting) Oct. 14 Mildred Brockie (Thank you for supplying information for newsletter article – and Happy 66th Wedding Anniversary Mildred and Dave) Oct. 20 Freeda and Jim Carmody (Sympathy, death of Jim’s brother) Oct. 24 Sharon Tibbs (Congratulations on being highlighted as “woman in the lead,” newspaper article, “Women’s History Month” for her leadership as town councillor now serving Fifth term) December Christmas Cards Rainycrest: Mildred and Dave Brockie Bob Fryer Roy Tinkess Rainy River: Iris McQuaker Emo: Alice Irvine Out of Area: Iris Osadchuk (Vita, MB) Audrey and Ari Borger (Thunder Bay, ON) Jack and Elsie Cameron (Wellington Arms, MB) June Drazenovich (Minneapolis, MN) Graham & Stella Ducker (Oshawa, ON) Jack and Paulette Fafard (Keewatin, ON) Herman Green (Buffalo Point, MB) Eileen Kirk (Prior Lake, MN) Marjorie Macklem (Winnipeg, MB) Nick Krawchuk (Winnipeg, MB) Sister Hilda Lang (Regina, SK) Jessie Martinson (Vancouver, BC) Jane Turple (Saksatoon, SK) Eunice and Ron Bang (Thunder Bay, ON) Gail Briggs (Thunder Bay, ON) Marion and John Duggan (Toronto, ON) Bill and Bonnie Morrison (Thunder Bay, ON) Lawrie and MaryAnn Sundine (Thunder Bay, ON) Continued on Page 9 Page 9 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
Goodwill Report (Christmas Cards, continued)
Shut-ins: Shirley Russell Special: Mal Steele (First Christmas alone) Isaac Dyck (First Christmas alone) Azaela McQuaker (First Christmas alone) Jim and Freeda Carmody (Newsletter) Dick and Carol Lyons (Newsletter) Angela and Maurice LaForest (Newsletter) La Place Rendez-Vous (Thank you for services and meeting donations) Northwestern Health Unit (Thank you for use of display boards) Nelson and Carol Rogoza
Nov. 15 Special Invitations to Dec. 4 Christmas Luncheon for Members 80 years and older
Edith Newman Josephine Benson Joy Bourre Merveline Brown Eva Fleurie Vera LaRocque Bernard Maher Nita Mills Marjorie Macklem Gordon Ross Fran Shelfantook Lenard Ricci Marjorie Bolen Chris Von Niebelschutz Laura Donaldson Isaac Dyck Edwina Frenette Margaret Livingston Al Lowe Jan Marshall Barb Murray Dorothy Morrow Marjorie Stuart
Nov. 15 Kathleen Modeland (2008 Octogenarian Special Invitation) Nov. 15 Jessie Enge (2008 Octogenarian Special Invitation) Dec. 7 Rose Bernardi (Christmas card, in hospital in Kenora) Dec. 9 Helen Mose (Sympathy, death of mother) Dec. 9 Jessie Enge (Sympathy, death of daughter-in-law) Dec. 13 Jo Benson (Thinking of you, in hospital) Dec. 18 Bernie Cousineau (Thinking of you, in hospital) Dec. 19 Roy Tinkess (Sympathy to family – donation to Rainycrest) Dec. 21 Merveline Brown (Thinking of you, fall, broken bone) 2009 Jan. 1 Lee Stinson (Thinking of you, ill) Jan. 1 Gale Donaldson (Thinking of you, in hospital) Jan. 1 Myron Hawryluk (Thank you, Christmas Luncheon entertainment) Jan. 1 Mel McFayden (Thinking of you, surgery) Jan. 19 Elizabeth Donaldson (Thinking of you, husband`s illness) Jan. 19 Bernie and Barb Cousineau (Thinking of you, Bernie’s illness) Jan. 22 Carol Rogoza (Sympathy, death of husband Nelson, donation Canadian Cancer Society) Jan. 28 Josephine Benson (Thinking of you, surgery) Feb. 6 Penny Newman (Welcome to RTO and pin) Feb. 10 Judith Johanson (Thinking of you, illness) Mar. 2 Freeda Carmody (Thinking of you, surgery) Mar. 7 David Ogden (Sympathy, death of wife Carol, donation Riverview United Church, Atikokan) Mar. 7 Cecil Ogden (Thinking of you, Carol Ogden’s death) Mar. 7 Patricia Ogden (Thinking of you, Carol Ogden’s death) Continued on Page 10 Page 10 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
Good Will Report, continued Mar. 7 Mamie Ogden (Thinking of you, Carol Ogden`s death) Mar. 7 Jean Corrigan (Thinking of you, Carol Ogden`s death) Mar. 8 Jack Hedman (Welcome to RTO and pin) Mar. 18 Jeannine Cornell (Sympathy, death of sister) Apr. 19 Henry Miller (Congratulation, winner of the Larry Wallace Memorial Volunteer Award, Sportsman Club) Apr. 16 Betty Ann LarRocque (Thinking of you, fall, broken hip and wrist) Apr. 24 Gale Donaldson (Welcome to new home at Rainycrest) Apr. 24 Bernie Cousineau (Thinking of you, hospital) Apr. 24 Barb Cousineau (Thinking of you) Apr. 24 Liz Donaldson (Thinking of you) Apr. 24 Eva and Dave Thornton (Thinking of you) Apr. 24 Mal Steele (Spring card) Apr. 24 Cecile Cole (Octogenarian 2008, invitation to presentation of pewter pin Apr.30 meeting) Apr. 24 Don Ricci (Congratulations, elected president of Rainy River Chamber of Commerce) Apr. 24 Spring cards to Rainycrest, Emo, Rainy River Mildred Brockie Dave Brockie Bob Fryer Gale Donaldson Alice Irvine Iris McQuaker Apr. 28 Gordon Ross (Thank you for auditing District 1 Financial Statement for January 1 to December 31, 2008) Apr. 28 Jack Dillon (Thank you for auditing District 1 Financial Statement for January 1 to December 31, 2008)
Sincere apologies if anyone has been missed. I depend on you keeping in touch with me about our members. Remember, it is never too late to send a card. Carroll McFayden, 274-3136
COMMITTEE REPORTS The Newsletter publishes Committee Reports 2008 OCTOGENARIANS so that the membership will be kept informed of Belated birthday wishes to Cecile Cole who District 1 activities. Any inquiries arising from the became an Octogenarian in 2008 and was reports will be addressed at the General missed on our list. She will be presented with Meeting. Informational materials are available on the RTO/ERO pewter pin at the April 30 the display area or from executive members. meeting at La Place Rendez-Vous. Two members from our Atikokan Unit, Kay HOW TO CONTACT RTO Modeland and Jessie Enge received pewter Mail: 18 Spadina Road, Suite 300, pins at the Atikokan Christmas luncheon in Toronto, ON M5R 2S7 December. Azaela McQuaker was reported to Phone: 416-962-9463 be the 2008 Octogenarian in our October Toll Free: 1-800-361-9888 Ext 223 Email: [email protected] newsletter. She chuckled at the mistake, There is a form that you can fill out at the RTO pleased that at the age of 90 she would be website, taken for a young 80 year old! www.rto-ero.org Page 11 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
HEALTH COMMITTEE REPORT Spring 2009 Cover your nose and mouth with a Health and Insurance Updates tissue when you cough or sneeze. Supplemental Travel Plan Throw the tissue in the trash after you RTO/ERO has announced a new option under the use it. Supplemental Travel Plan. You can now purchase Wash your hands often with soap and an additional 5 days. This insurance covers days water, especially after you cough or beyond the 62 days that are automatically insured sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners for participants in the Extended Health Care. Rates are also effective. for 5 extra days are $65 for single, $130 for a Avoid touching your eyes, nose or couple, and $143 for a family. Up to 150 extra mouth. Germs spread this way. days may be purchased. Try to avoid close contact with sick New Passport Requirements A reminder to people travelling to the United States people. by land, air or sea, that effective June 1, 2009, a If you get sick with influenza, stay home valid passport will be required for entry. and limit contact with others to keep Trip Cancellation/Interruption from infecting them. Trip cancellation/interruption insurance is automatically included under your Extended Health Mariette McRae Care or Supplemental Travel Plans. Members with District Health Representative Extended Health Care coverage do not need to purchase this from travel agents or companies. Access Your RTO/ERO Health Insurance Plan Information Online HARMONIZATION OF TAXES To read the Health Insurance Plan booklet online, RTO is currently researching the Pros and Cons of simply go to RTO/ERO’s Members Only website, the recent announcement of the harmonization of www.rto-ero.org taxes. An official paper will be produced if the New Rates and Benefit Coverage government passes the necessary acts. The PAC will be overseeing the issues from all sides and will Beginning February 1, 2009, premium rates report the impact on our members and seniors in for Semi-Private Hospital Plan decreased by general. 10 percent. Reimbursement level for semi- private coverage increased to 95 percent. Dental Care benefit changed to cover the 2009 Fee Guide for General Practitioners. CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION The Hearing Aid benefit increased to $1000 The Retired Teachers of Ontario Provincial overall every 3 consecutive calendar years. Executive has presented Certificates of The prescription drug benefit increased to Recognition to three District 1 Executive $2300 per calendar year. members. Carroll McFayden received Vision Care (eyeglasses, contacts and laser recognition for her excellent leadership as our surgery) increased to $300 every two Goodwill Representative; Angela LaForest consecutive years. Eye exams are covered for her many years of dedicated service as the to $75 every two consecutive years. Health Services and Insurance Orthotics benefits are $500 every two Representative; and Bob Barron for his three consecutive calendar years. terms of devoted service as President of District 1. SWINE FLU (H1N1 Virus) What can I do to protect myself from getting sick? There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause Q – When is a retiree’s bedtime? respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these A – Three hours after he falls asleep on the everyday steps to protect your health: Couch. Page 12 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
NEW MEMBERS
MARY LYNNE BONDETT LINDA HILL Mary Lynn was born in Sarnia, Ontario. At Linda was born and raised in Fort Frances. the age of eight her family moved to the far north After graduating from Grade 13 she attended to the small community called Matheson. She Lakehead Teachers’ College and began her career completed Grade 12 in Iroquois Falls before the as a classroom teacher in Fort Frances. Linda family moved to North Bay. At Western University earned her BA and BEd taking courses from in London Mary Lynne specialized in Phys Ed and Lakehead University off campus. She has worked after graduating, attended McArthur College in in Fort Frances all her career – classroom teacher, Kingston taking a primary, junior and intermediate Primary/Junior Consultant, Principal and Assistant specialist. In 1978 she began her teaching career to the Director. She retired after 30 years in at Cornerbrook School, teaching a Grade 7/8 split. education. Her retirement plans include being a Later Mary Lynne moved to Robert Moore School Snowbird. Linda and her husband, Len, have working in the intermediate division teaching purchased a park model trailer in Pharr, Texas and language and math, girls’ phys ed and health. will winter in the sun. They will continue to enjoy After 10 years she moved to Sixth Street School, their summers at the lake home on Rainy Lake. working part time with primary children as she now They are also looking forward to becoming had a young family. After three years she moved grandparents. February and May of this year are to Alberton School teaching a Grade 1/2 split, and special months. one year a triple grade split. After the closing of Linda recalled the occasion, while supervising the school she went to Huffman to teach Grade 3 students in the hall at Huffman School, a little for a year, and finished her career at J. W. Walker Senior Kindergarten student came up to her crying. School, working with intermediate students and She told her that another student had said the “L” then working as a literary resource teacher in the word to her. She had dealt with the “S” word, the school. Mary Lynne participated in school canoe “F” word, and the ”B” word, but was stumped as to trips; initiated a gymnastics program at the “L” word. She took the little one into the office Cornerbrook School; took intermediate students and asked her just what the other student had said. on school trips to Toronto and Winnipeg, helped The student told Linda that he told her to, “Get the develop the Grades 7 and 8 day celebration held ‘L’ out of here!” It was very difficult, Linda recalls, to at the high school for all intermediate students in keep a straight face. Kids do say the darndest the district; worked with staff and parents to things. develop a school-wide snow machine program; worked with students at J. W. Walker to fund raise for the African relief and Tsunami relief projects; made quilts with her Alberton Grade 1/2 students. MAUREEN RICARD Mary Lynne plans to travel, spend more Maureen was born and raised in Fort time with friends and family. Both her children, Frances, attending Sixth Street School, Robert Adrian and Kate, live in Ottawa and she and Dave Moore and graduating from Fort Frances High still have their parents in North Bay. School. She remembers fondly her kindergarten Mary Lynne reflected on the highlights of teacher, Dorothy Weir and Jan Marshall, her her career: Grade 3 teacher. She attended Lakehead “. . . teaching and working with students I taught. University and received her Bachelor of Education There were 7 previous students working at J. W. with a Major in History. She began her career Walker last year” teaching Grades 7 and 8 at Walker School. She “. . . teaching grandchildren of students – there recalled Azaela McQuaker being her mentor and should be something in our contract that says as encouraging her to become knowledgable about soon as that happens a teacher is granted her Federation. Maureen taught for 35 years, retirement.” working in two schools, J. W. Walker and “. . . being part of a live video conferencing with Alexander McKenzie, and with students from my nephew who was a soldier fighting in Grades 2 to 8. She spent her last 8 years as Afghanistan.” Literacy Co-ordinator for the Rainy River District Page 13 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
NEW MEMBER, Maureen Ricard (continued) IN MEMORIAM School Board. She has decided to ease into retirement by working on occasion for the Rainy ROY TINKESS River District School Board and Confederation College, do some volunteer work, become involved Roy was born in Mirror Lake, BC, August 24, in community activities, and keep learning. Once 1922. While serving in WWII he met and married Lorne retires they plan to travel the world. Their Alice May Goding. They returned to Fort Frances two children have decided on careers in education. where Roy worked for the Rainy River District Alyson is currently teaching in an American private School Board, first a janitor and later as a high school in Guatemala and Rick is in his second year school teacher. He was well known as the education. Maureen enjoys running and will take part in 5 km and 10 km competitions while Lorne drivers’ training teacher. In retirement he and participates in running marathons. Alice spent summers at Kakagi (Crow) Lake, and “An experience I reflect back on quite winters in Arizona. His greatest pleasures were regularly,” recalls Maureen, “occurred early in my being with Alice and family, and travelling. The teaching when I taught a Grade 7 and 8 class and Executive Board and membership of District 1 we decided to do a play, Legend of Sleepy Hollow. RTO/ERO extend sincere condolences to Roy’s I had a group of disengaged boys who did not want to be involved in the acting so I gave them dancing family. roles, much to their dismay. I didn’t know how to square dance so we held sessions at night with my NELSON ROGOZA mother as the instructor because she knew some Nelson was born July 9, 1940, in Vita, MB. At the steps. The boys showed up at night protesting, by age of five his family settled in Fort Frances. saying they wouldn’t come. However, they did, and After completing the first summer in the “Pre- we learned the steps. I had a hard time containing Teachers’ Course” in Thunder Bay, he taught in my laughter then, as I do now, whenever I think of them square dancing in front of their peers at our North Branch, about 20 miles north of Stratton. school and other schools. As I further reflect, I Following the second summer school session, his realize that the fun and laughter we had learning assignment was Grades 1 to 8 Central School in the dances and putting on the play for others Alberton. Nelson married his high school helped to engage these boys and build class sweetheart, Carol Hinrichs, on August 27, 1960. community.” He taught at the Robert Moore School in Fort Frances after completing his full year of Teachers’ College in Thunder Bay. He completed HAVE YOU MOVED? his BA in 1969 and became principal of J. W. Remember to inform the Provincial Office Walker School. Nelson achieved a Masters of if you have a change of address. You can do this Education from the University of Minnesota, by calling: 1-800-881-6956, ext. 223. Duluth. He retired in 1994, after 35 years in Provincial provides address labels which are education. used in all local and provincial mailings. I order Nelson was an active member of St. Georges’ these labels for each mailing of the newsletter, Ukrainian Orthodox Church serving on the and an updated address ensures that it would church executive as president and later as the not be necessary to re-address your envelope. financial secretary for the past 35 years. In 2008 Freeda Carmody Nelson was awarded the title of “Senior of the Year” by the Township of Alberton, Q – Why don’t retirees mind being called acknowledging his strong participation in his Seniors? community throughout the years. A – The term comes with a 10 percent The Executive Board and membership of the Discount. District 1 RTO/ERO extend sincere condolences Page 14 of 14 Rainy River, District 1 RTO/ERO Newsletter, May, 2009
IN MEMORIAM INTERVIEW WITH YOUR PHARMACIST
CAROL JOYCE OGDEN A reminder to your District/Unit membership over Carol was born in Midnight Lake, SK on April 13, the age of 65 years who require three or more 1937. She was married to David Ogden for 56 prescription drugs, that a personal, confidential years and they raised three children, Marilyn, interview is available from their pharmacist upon Larry and Sandra. They have seven grandchildren request. Discussion will concern correct use and and two great-grandchildren. Carol was known cautions to be aware of in the use of the drugs prescribed. There is no financial charge for this for her love of life and family. Everyone was service. always welcome at her table and she was happiest From DHR/UHR Newsletter with her family and friends around her. Her final days were spent in the Atikokan General Hospital OUT of PROVINCE/COUNTRY under the care of compassionate nurses and with her family by her side. All Out-of-Country/Province RTO/ERO Health The Executive Board and membership of District 1 Plan Claims will be processed through WORLD RTO/ERO extend sincere condolences to David and ACCESS CANADA regardless of the dollar family. amount. Members must call WAC within 48 hours of emergency. Failure to do so limits the claim to $2000. Ensure you have your insurance card readily available - the numbers DO YOU HAVE A RESIDENCE OUTSIDE to call are on it. THE PROVINCE/COUNTRY? One factor that you need to be aware of is your “Out of Province/Country insurance is just that. WEBSITE FOR SENIORS Some people have cottages that are in a The provincial government, in co-operation different province and may stay there longer with federal and municipal partners, has than the allotted number of 62 days and then launched SeniorsInfo.ca making it easier for are caught short when they need assistance. seniors to access information, programs and So do be aware if you have residences outside services from all levels of government. of Ontario. SeniorsInfo.ca (www.seniorsinfo.ca) is a new and exciting website that provides a single source of information about programs and RTO MEDICAL PLAN AVAILABLE services for seniors offered by the federal, WITHIN 60 DAYS OF LEAVING provincial and municipal governments and SPOUSE`S GROUP local community agencies. RTO/ERO has several members who are retired and remain under a spouse’s group WHAT WORKS FOR ME benefit plan until the plan expires. These I fell twice this year and wondered why. individuals are eligible to join RTO/ERO Health Because I pride myself on being a problem Plans within 60 days of leaving that group plan solver I analyzed all that had occurred during without a medical. the fall. I realized I was not paying attention; my lack of focus contributed to my fall. I have since started to count when I come to a Q – How many seniors does it take to set of steps and as I put my foot down I begin Change a light bulb? counting each step until the end. I have not A – Only one, but it might take all day! fallen since. I hope that this tip will be useful to other seniors. (Phyllis Walker)