Executive Board/Conseil exécutif2015-2016

Ronald RobertPresident/Président

Carmaine Hall1st Vice-president/1ère Vice-présidente

Roland Muzzatti2nd Vice-president/2e Vice-président

Dave HodgeTreasurer/Trésorier

Diane BradleySecretary/Secrétaire

Terry MartynPast President/Président sortant

Pierrette NadeauSocial

Peter NiroPolitical Action/Action politique

Gen WaszczyloGoodwill/Bienfaisance

Ronald RobertHealth-Insurance/Santé-assurance

Terry MartynMembership/Adhésion

Jenny RossPensions

Francine HurtubiseNewsletter Editor/Éditrice

Juliette Lavoie-GabouryTravel/Voyages

Gloria PackardMedia/Médias

Debbie LambertUnit 1 Representative/Représentante Unité 1

Diane BradleyWebmaster/Webmestre

http://www.rtoerosudburymanitoulin.com

FALL/AUTOMNE 2015

District 4THE RETIRED TEACHERS OF ONTARIO

LES ENSEIGNANTES ET ENSEIGNANTSRETRAITÉS DE L’ONTARIO

Inside/À l’intérieur…From the President’s Desk .............................................. p.1Social Committee .......................................................... p.2 Reader’s Corner/Le coin du livre…………… ........................ p.2Mot du président ........................................................... p.3Membership .................................................................. p.4Goodwill/Bienfaisance .................................................... p.5In Memoriam ................................................................ p.5Financial Report .............................................................p.7North Shore/Manitoulin Newsbeat .................................. p.8Foundation Report ......................................................... p.9

Awards ........................................................................p.10Merit Travel .................................................................p.11Relay for Life/Relais pour la vie .....................................p.12Political Advocacy….......................................................p.14Registration/Christmas Luncheon ...................................p.15Be Prepared .................................................................p.16Soyez prêts ..................................................................p.16RWTO/OERO ...............................................................p.17Senate Report ..............................................................p.19Inscription/déjeuner (automne) .....................................p.19Registration/Fall Luncheon ........................................... p.20

Adapting to a changing environment..... is it an RTO/ERO priority?

I hope that you have enjoyed this summer’s weather to the fullest. By the time you read this article your local RTO/ERO Executive committee will probably be gearing up for the autumn activities. I hope that you will attend our meeting and luncheon on Thursday, October 8, 2015.

I know that it has been a while since the Spring Senate in May but the report from the Member Services Committee Chair raised what I consider a serious concern. In the report, the Chair lauded the retirement workshop program (RPW) as a valuable recruiting tool for RTO/ERO. This is a fact but the environment is shifting .

In order for the districts to relay the information of the RPW schedule to active teachers, district representatives must contact the Affiliates at the local level. You will recall that in a previous article I mentioned that some Affiliates are no longer willing to help RTO/ERO advertise our RPWs. When this question was raised at the Spring Senate, a discussion ensued on ways we could go about to circumvent the privacy rules in order to get our information out. This approach troubled me and continues to do so. RTO/ERO is not adapting to the new reality and I fear that our relationship with OTF and the four (4) Affiliates is deteriorating. The impact will be self evident: RTO/ERO will no longer receive any assistance from the local affiliate representatives. Therefore the success of our RPWs will be jeopardized and this will ultimately negatively impact future membership in RTO/ERO.

The leaders at RTO/ERO are telling us to foster better relationships with affiliate representatives thereby finding ways to circumvent either the privacy legislation or the edicts from their provincial organizations. This, in my view, is wrong and it places our local Membership Committee Chairs in an untenable and very compromising situation. This is unfair to them and also impacts district RPW organizing committees.

Are the provincial leaders dodging the issue? It is true that our relationship with the Affiliates is not as strong as it once was. If we do not resolve this problem, I fear that the RTO/ERO RPWs will not maintain the success that they now have. Clearly, it is time for our provincial leaders to sit down with the leaders of OTF and the Affiliates in order to foster relationships where we can all work for the betterment of every teacher, either active or retired.

Ronald Robert

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Reader’s Corner…a few delightful reading selections 1. Alan Bradley … The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie 2. Michael Crummey … Sweetland3. Kent Haruf … Plainsong4. Catherine McKenzie … Smoke Le coin du livre…quelques suggestions pour agrémenter votre lecture1. Mensonges sur le Plateau Mont-Royal (tome 2)-La biscuiterie de Michel David2. Les héritiers du fleuve (tome 4)-1931-1939 de Louise Tremblay D’essiambre3. La Saline (tome 1)-Imposture de Louise Lacoursière4. Graziella (tome 1)-Les premières notes de Nicole Villeneuve

Francine Hurtubise

SOCIAL COMMITTEEDates to include in your calendar:

Executive Board Meetings are held at the Howard Johnson Plaza,on Brady Street, at 9:30 am.Wednesday, September 16, 2015 Thursday, November 5, 2015 Tuesday, January 26, 2016 Thursday, April 21, 2016

General Meetings are held at the Howard Johnson Plaza, on Brady Street. - Fall Luncheon – Thursday, October 8, 2015- Christmas Luncheon – Thursday, December 3, 2015- Spring Luncheon & Annual Meeting – Thursday, May 12, 2016 New Retirees’ & New Members’ Luncheon – Wednesday, October 8, 2015 Retirement Workshop (for active teachers) – Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 5:00 pmVolunteer Luncheon – June 2016 (date to be determined)

Automated phone calls to members: Weeks of November 9, 2015 and January 18, 2016 Pierrette Nadeau

A Message from Your Local RTO/ERO Executive Board

Because the availability of phone captains has declined, we are no longer able to provide telephone reminders of upcoming General Meetings.Further, last year we discontinued the postcard reminder ahead of the Christmas meeting.To replace these two communications we plan to employ a “robo-calling” service.This will provide a timely recorded telephone message from your local Executive Board at a fraction of the cost of a mailing.Thus, in the future, when you receive a short automated telephone message purporting to come from the RTO/ERO Executive Board, it will be genuine and not a prank.

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Mot du président S’adapter à un environnement en flux... est-ce une priorité pour RTO/ERO?

J’espère que vous avez joui au maximum de la belle température cet été. Lorsque vous lirez cet article, le comité exécutif de RTO/ERO aura repris son travail. Je vous encourage à participer activement à nos activités de l’année en commençant par notre déjeuner le jeudi 8 octobre prochain.

Voilà quelque temps que le Sénat du printemps a eu lieu et dans son rapport, le président du comité Services aux membres a soulevé une problématique que je crois est assez sérieuse. Il décrit l’atelier de planification à la retraite (RPW) comme un excellent outil pour recruter des nouveaux membres pour RTO/ERO. C’est un fait mais il souligne aussi que les paramètres qui servent à préparer cet atelier sont en train de changer.

Dans le passé pour relayer l’horaire et les données pertinentes concernant les ateliers de planification à la retraite, les représentants des districts devaient communiquer avec les Filiales locales. Si vous vous souvenez, dans un article précédent, je vous avais sensibilisés au fait que certaines Filiales ne voulaient plus promouvoir ces ateliers de planification. Lorsque cette problématique a été soulevée au Sénat, une discussion s’est ensuit au sujet des façons de communiquer notre information et minimiser l’impact des règlements au sujet de la vie privée si c’est le cas. Cette approche selon moi est insensée. RTO/ERO ne s’adapte pas à la nouvelle réalité et je crains que sa relation avec la FEO et les quatre Filiales en souffre en conséquence. L’impact se fera bientôt sentir : RTO/ERO ne recevra plus l’aide des représentants des Filiales locales. Le succès de notre atelier de planification à la retraite sera menacé et cela à la longue nuira au recrutement futur des membres pour RTO/ERO.

Les leaders de RTO/ERO nous disent de forger de meilleures relations avec les représentants des Filiales afin de contourner les règlements au sujet de la vie privée ou les décrets de leurs organisations provinciales. Selon moi, ce n’est pas la façon de faire et cela place nos présidents locaux des comités de Membriété dans une position délicate et intenable. C’est injuste pour eux et pour les comités organisateurs locaux des ateliers de planification à la retraite.

Est-ce que nos leaders provinciaux essaient d’éviter cette problématique? C’est vrai que notre relation avec les Filiales n’est pas aussi forte qu’auparavant. Si nous ne résolvons pas cette situation, je crains que les ateliers de planification à la retraite ne seront plus un franc succès comme ils le sont présentement. Il est temps que nos leaders provinciaux rencontrent les leaders de la FEO et des Filiales afin de cimenter une meilleure relation permettant à tous de travailler pour le bien-être de tous les enseignants, actifs ou retraités. Ronald Robert

A Reminder

Merit Travel in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce is offering a delightful 11 day Bavarian Tour which includes beautiful Prague. Departure is from Toronto, October 22, 2015.

It is not too late to register. Call Merit Travel at 705 564 9990

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Membership/Membriété

Congratulations to the following retirees who have joined RTO/ERO District 4. This list includes new members from March – July 2015.

Heather Amos Ghislaine Asselin Fernanda Battocchio Louise Bergeron Enna Ellis Nicole R. FrescuraRhea Laferriere Joan MalanchukMarilyn Martin Suzan J. MerrillAlbert Nesseth Paulette QuevillonJohn Walton Unit OnePaul Flanagan Susan MuncasterBruce Wiggins

If you have any questions about membership, contact Terry Martyn at 705-688-0314 or by email at ‘twmartyn@unitz.ca’.

Congratulations to Jocelyn McInnes!Jocelyn was presented with the Cora Bailey Award for 2014-2015 by the Retired Women Teachers of Ontario (RWTO-OERO) Sudbury Branch Area 10 at their Spring meeting and luncheon. This award is presented for outstanding service to the organization. Jocelyn worked for nearly 35 years as a kindergarten teacher, music teacher and music consultant. Jocelyn served a two year term as President of RTO/ERO District 4 and continues to be an active member.

Is that a fact? As of July 31, 2015, District 4 had a total of 1,689 members. The following chart shows the breakdown by age and gender.

Membership by Age/GenderDistrict 4 – Sudbury/Manitoulin

Age Female Male Total

0 – 54 7 0 7

55 – 64 234 57 291

65 – 74 584 259 843

75 – 84 249 175 424

85 – 89 54 29 83

90 – 94 24 9 33

95 – 99 6 1 7

100 + 1 0 1

Totals 1,159 530 1,689 Terry Martyn

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Goodwill/Bienfaisance

Joe Drago, was “saluted” by the Lougheed Family in the Northern Life. Congratulations!

OxfamThanks to the efforts of Pauline Therrien, RTO/ERO members have contributed to Oxfam Canada Projects Supported by Stamp Funds. In 2014, $18 000 was raised which supported two projects: in Zimbabwe (Reducing Vulnerability to HIV/AIDS - the stamp funds are matched 10:1 by donations from Oxfam partners in other countries.) and Cuba (Women’s Empowerment Fund). Since the stamp program began over 30 years ago over $33 000 has been raised to support projects worldwide. Please don’t forget to save the stamps from Christmas mailings and bring them to Pauline Therrien at the next General Meeting. Thank you. Gen Waszczylo gwaszczylo@sympatico.ca

“A great teacher is someone who can learn from their students, who can learn with them, and learns for them” Robert John Meehan, American Educator

“Most of us end up with no more than five or six people who remember us. Teachers have thousands of people who remember them for the rest of their lives.” Andy Rooney

Goodwill/Bienfaisance Committee MembersCall us....Appelez-nous

Annette Blais-Laforge 675-5985 Anne Malnachuk 969-2914 Bessie Budge 869-3408 Josie Girolametto 682-2682 Isobel Patchett 522-0115 Helen Laidlaw 523-1571 Louise Shonwise 969-3584 Nicole St. Germain 758-6614 Juliette Lavoie-Gaboury 897-6028 Helga Leblanc 897-6877 Paulette Stewart 566-5996 Monique Taylor 853-4772 Gen Waszczylo 969-5282

Nous honorons nos membres décédés qui ont transmis la joie d’apprendre.We honour our deceased members who gave their students

the confidence to pursue their dreams.

In Memoriam

Richard MayerAurèle Ethier

Norita PrestageNicole Kotipelto

Bob VitaliMarjorie Zinn

Valda BambersClaire Ferland

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Membres en deuil/Bereaved MembersFrancine Hurtubise, sa soeur Christane Lavoie

Jacqueline Arseneau, son frère LéoPriscille Courtemanche, son époux, LéoCarla Knutson, her father-in-law, DonCarole Aubin, sa mère, Lucille Young

Lise Jutras, sa mère, Lucienne Trudel PatoinePierrette Forget, ses soeurs Lyane Gervais, Sue Spencer

et son frère Ron MrochekMaurice Giroux, son épouse, Annette

Mariette Dignard-Dubé, sa soeur, Claire FerlandCarmaine Hall, son époux, Jack

Pierrette et André Nadeau, sa mère Fernande NadeauDenise Perron et Lucille Bédard, leur frère, Daniel Belisle

Vos collègues vous disent MERCIYour colleagues say THANK YOU

“Mille mercis. Cela a été grandement apprécié.” Roger B.“À la famille ERO/RTO, Merci pour votre don et vos mots d’appui en ce temps bien difficile. Perdre une soeur bien aimée laisse un grand vide dans mon coeur. Vos pensées et vos gestes aident beaucoup à soulager la douleur. Thank you for the condolences and kind words of support. I am devastated by the sudden death of my beloved sister, Christane. A donation to the P.E.T. scanner is a nice way of honouring what she stood for, caring and gentleness.” Francine Hurtubise“To all my dear friends and colleagues from RTO/ERO - Thank you. All your positive energy, your thoughts and prayers, were greatly appreciated. I have not yet spent the gift certificate, but I will.” Louise Shonwise“Chers collègues d’ERO/RTO - Merci pour le don à la mémoire de Léo. C’est apprécié énormément.” Priscille Courtemanche“Thank you for the kind donation to the Sam Bruno Pet Scan Fund on Marjorie’s behalf.” Zinn Family“Quel réconfort que de recevoir ton message de sympathie. Merci pour le don offert à la mémoire d’Annette. Toute mon admiration.” Maurice Giroux“I loved your Japanese Proverb. Thanks for adding his name to your In Memoriam, and the donation to the Sam Bruno P.E.T. Scan Fund is really appreciated.” Doris Vitali“Thank you for your thoughts during this difficult time. Nicole would have appreciated the donation to the Sam Bruno Scanner Fund.” Hannu, Seija and Mark

Did you know that…?1. CHNO Sudbury was the first bilingual private radio station in Canada outside of Quebec.2. On Dec. 4, 1968, Dr. Paul Field conducted Canada’s first successful aorta-coronary bypass operation at the Sudbury Memorial Hospital.

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RETIRED TEACHERS OF ONTARIO - District 4FINANCIAL STATEMENT

FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1 – JUNE 30 2015

Checking Account 6 786.54 Investments - GIC 10 066.25

TOTAL 16 852.79

Grants: Annual 24 424.66 Bilingual 635.27 RPW 1 005.43 Other Income: RPW Meals 1 830.00 General Meetings 3 420.00 Donations 545.00 Payment correction 38.42 TOTAL 31 898.78 TOTAL RECEIPTS AND ASSETS 48 751.57

Good Will 176.00 Meetings: District 3 384.82 Executive 1 211.87 Senate 1 105.00 Newsletter 2 455.62 Bilingual services 635.27 Office Expenses 369.95 R.P.W 3 467.74 Recruitment 635.44 Transportation 1 521.00 Unit 2 2 000.00 Awards 165.00 Provincial Workshops Relay For Life 258.58 Donation 545.00 Website

TOTAL EXPENDITURES 17 931.68 BALANCE 30 819.89 Comprised of: Chequing 20 753.64 GIC 10 066.25

30 819.89

Dave Hodge

OPENING TOTAL ASSETS

RECEIPTS

EXPENDITURES

CLOSING TOTAL ASSETS

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Mantoulin/North Shore Newsbeat

On May 21, 2015, 26 members met at the Elk’s Lodge in Espanola to share a delicious lunch prepared by the ladies of the lodge and to discuss issues related to the RTO/ERO. The meeting was led by outgoing Executive chair, Laila Kiviaho. Advisor Jenny Ross and Terry Martyn, past president of District 4, Sudbury also spoke about the recent Senate meeting in Toronto, especially concerning health benefits options.As the Executive team option seemed to be an onerous task, no members, present, from the Northshore/Elliot Lake area were prepared to take over leadership of this unit. Therefore it was suggested that the outgoing Executive meet with prospective members from the Northshore/Elliot Lake to discuss the future of this unit. The meeting ended with sing-alongs and the drawing for two door prizes of hanging floral baskets.As there was no interest in taking on leadership roles at the meeting in Elliot Lake, a second unit organizational meeting was held at noon at the Pinewood in Espanola on June 23, 2015, where the responsibilities sheets were reviewed and amended. The following members have volunteered to take the following responsibilities:-Chair: Debbie Lambert-Secretary: Berthe Michon-Treasurer: Claudette Bois-Social: Berthe Michon-Newsletter: Claudette Bois-Membership: Debbie Lambert-Liaison: Jenny Ross-Health Representative: Jenny RossThe new leadership group will meet on Tuesday, September 1/15 at the Pinewood Restaurant in Espanola to plan the upcoming RTO/ERO meeting.If you have any information regarding special birthdays, anniversaries or deaths of RTO members or their families, please contact the Goodwill representative in your area. Barb Cranston, Little Current 705 368-2498; Laila Kiviaho, Central Manitoulin, 705 368-2580; Jane Deyell, Southern and Eastern Manitoulin, 705 859-3538; Val Flanagan, Western Manitoulin, 705 282-3386; Bessie Budge, Espanola, 705 869-3408; Patricia Cairns, Elliot Lake and North Shore, 705-848-2942.

In Memoriam

Elva Doris HesterStanley Gordon (husband of Jacqui Gordon)

Claudette Bois

Reminder:

Our Fall meeting will be held at the Legion hall in Spanish, (5 Brennan Harbour Rd) on Turesday, October 6/15. Guest speaker is pending.Social Time: 11:00 a.m., Lunch: 12:00 ($20.00 per person), Meeting: 1:00 p.m.

Claudette Bois

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Foundation ReportDr. Paula Rochon, Professor of Geriatric Medicine in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto, and Vice President of Research at Women’s College Hospital, has been named the inaugural RTO/ERO Chair in Geriatric Medicine at the University of Toronto. “I am honoured to be appointed as the inaugural RTO/ERO Chair in Geriatric Medicine. I truly look forward to working with the University, The Retired Teachers of Ontario/Les enseignantes et enseignants retraités de l’Ontario and its members on this important initiative that will advance the care of our aging population and ensure that all Canadians enjoy the quality of life that they deserve,” says Dr. Rochon. Dr. Rochon’s research is focused on understanding the

unique needs of older adults, particularly women, who make up the majority. Her research explores the complex challenges of managing the health of vulnerable older adults with multiple complex and chronic conditions. She examines the benefits and risks of drug therapies commonly prescribed to older adults, and she develops practical and innovative strategies to improve prescribing practices among this group. With the country’s elderly population estimated to grow to 10.4 million by 2036 — accounting for almost one quarter of Canada’s total population — it is important for health care research and clinical care in geriatric medicine to keep pace. The Chair will support the training of specialists in Geriatric Medicine who will advance our knowledge and provide the evidence that guides the care of this aging population.” Dr. Rochon was appointed for a five-year term starting July 1.

Other News From The Foundation BoardThe Foundation Board has approved a granting plan for 2015 and is expecting to make multiple grants across Ontario by the end of the year. This plan also supports member and donor interests as indicated with 88% approval* for the priority of supporting: geriatrics/gerontology research and training at post-secondary institutions across the province (*Fall 2014 Foundation survey). We have already had a conversation with all the Deans of the Faculties of Medicine, as listed below, and they are all enthusiastic about this potential partnership opportunity:McMaster University, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Queen’s University, University of Ottawa, Western University.Note: University of Toronto will be omitted from this granting cycle.

Savais-tu qu’…?En 2015, les Canadiens âgés de 65 ans et plus reçoivent 6 768 $ par an comme pension de Sécurité de la vieillesse (SV). Un couple reçoit 13 536 $ par année.Cependant, il y a des changements à l’âge d’admissibilité de cette pension qui ont d’importantes implications financières. À partir d’avril 2023 et jusqu’en janvier 2029, l’âge d’admissibilité à la pension de la Sécurité de la vieillesse (SV) et au Supplément de revenu garanti pour ceux qui qualifient, passera graduellement de 65 à 67 ans. Ce changement touchera les personnes nées en 1958 ou après.Il est aussi important de noter, qu’un couple enseignant, perdra un revenu de 27 072 $ pendant les deux années. De plus, à l’âge de 65 ans, le facteur d’intégration pour le Régime de pension du Canada (RPC) est appliqué aux enseignants. Conséquemment, ce même couple verra sa rente (pension) diminuer de 6 000 $/année/enseignant (12 000 $ par couple). La perte financière est calculée de la façon suivante (jusqu’à ce qu’ils atteignent l’âge de 65 ans):SV: 27 072 $Facteur d’intégration RPC: 24 000 $ (6 000 $/année/enseignant)Total: 51 072 $Nos futurs membres d’ERO/RTO seront sévèrement affectés financièrement, ainsi que nos enfants et nos petits enfants par ces changements.Ces changements sont-ils justes?* Commencez la conversation* Exigez l’inversion des changements à l’âge d’admissibilité* Apprenez toutes les répercussions sur le Régime de retraite des enseignantes et des enseignants* Contactez les politiciens fédéraux et considérez vos options* Vérifiez les positions des divers partis politiques* VOTEZPour plus de renseignements allez au http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

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AWARDS

Two categories of Awards were presented at the RTO/ERO District 4 Annual General Meeting held in May 2015.1. Certificates of Recognition Criteria: A Certificate of Recognition may be given to any RTO/ERO member who either serves at the District level or who volunteers for an extended period of time within the communities of District 4.

A. The 8 individuals of the Meta (a word from the East Indian culture that signifies “love offering”) Group were recognized for buying food, preparing that food and serving a meal at the Elgin Street Mission once a month for over 5 years. • Suzanne Perrin • Pauline Carlson • Irene Perrin • Rita Boyer • Gabrielle Julien • Denise Glass • Francine Hurtubise • Cecile Archambault (also has served as our Captain or co-captain for our Relay for Life Team for over 10 years)

B. Murielle Mayer has such a strong service ethic that her family refers to her as “Mother Teresa”. She has given over 2 000 hours over 25 years of volunteering at our local hospitals. The Administrative Council of Bel Lago Condominiums as well as the Club Ste Anne des Pins have benefited from her spirit of commitment and dedication.

C. Eva Mazerolle has shown non-stop involvement in her community from the moment she retired from a 44 year career in teaching. She has been a tireless advocate for the rights of francophone seniors for over 20 years. Here are some of the organizations where she has found friendship, fellowship and fulfillment: Centre club d’Or de la Vallée, Valley East Community Action, Retrouvailles Acadiennes, and Fédération des aînés et des retraités francophones du Moyen- Nord.

D. Lauren MacDonald has served as Secretary of the Unit 1 Executive and as a representative on the District 4 Executive

Board for the past 2 years. She is secretary of the Islander Quilters as well as the secretary of the national organization, the Canadian Quilting Association.

2. Guill Archambault Community Volunteer Award

Criteria: This award is given to any RTO/ERO member who demonstrates a high level of commitment to serving the needs of others either at the District level or within the communities of District 4.This is our District’s most prestigious award.

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Congratulations are extended to Brenda Tessaro who is the 2015 recipient of the Guill Archambault Community Volunteer Award.

Brenda has been an active member of RTO-ERO District 4 since 2007. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the local chapter of The Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP).

Her volunteer commitments include the Northern Ontario School of Medicine in the ‘Standardized Patient Program’ (role play a patient with certain conditions during an interview with a medical student), St. Joseph’s Villa, and the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign.Brenda is a passionate member of the Steering Committee for the “The Northern Cancer Foundation: Sam Bruno P.E.T. Scanner Fund”.In her typical selfless fashion, Brenda has donated the monetary value of this award to the Sam Bruno P.E.T. Scanner Fund. Roland Muzzatti

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Fait accompli!Notre équipe Relais pour la vie a atteint et même dépassé son objectif. Puisque ce relais était mon dernier comme capitaine, j’espérais atteindre un total cumulatif de 100 000 $ en dons. L’an passé, le total cumulatif remis à la Société canadienne du cancer se chiffrait à 96 912 $. Grâce à la générosité de nos participant-es, nos membres, nos familles et nos ami-es, l’équipe 2015 a remis 7 038 $ à la Société canadienne du cancer. Ce montant porte notre contribution totale à travers des années à 103 950 $. Yahoo!!! Nous pouvons être fiers-ères de notre apport à la recherche et à l’aide portée aux familles affectées par le cancer. L’appui reçu de nos divers exécutifs a beaucoup facilité ma tâche de capitaine. Grand merci! Merci aux membres tenaces et aux nouveaux membres qui ont participé! Merci aux membres, ami-es et familles qui ont contribué! Merci tout spécial à Francine Hurtubise pour son appui et son aide. Qu’il pleuve, qu’il tonne, qu’on gèle, elle y était. Même s’il n’y a pas d’équipe, j’espère vous retrouver sur la piste en juin 2016.

Cécile Archambault, capitaineÉquipe/Team 2015 Félicitations et merci! Congratulations and thank you!Aline Bidal Annette Blais-Laforge Diane Bradley Pauline CarlsonDenise Carré Denise Glass Francine Hurtubise Juliette Lavoie-GabouryLois Luoma Claire Mackay Patty Mearini Raymond MonetteIrène Perrin Suzanne Perrin Nancy Piquette Louise ProulxMonique Taylor & Bob Pauline A. Therrien Pauline C. Therrien Cécile Archambault et famille: Anik, Michel, Marisol, Cédric, Pierre Yann, Suzanne, Mathieu We did it!We exceeded our expectations! As captain for the last time, I was hoping that our 2015 Relay for Life team would reach a cumulative amount of $100 000 in donations. Over the years, we gave a total of $ 96 912 to the Canadian Cancer Society. Thanks to the generosity of our participants, our members, our friends and families, our RTO/ERO Team donated $7 038 this year. This brings our lifetime total to $103 950. WOW! WOW! We as a group can be proud of our contribution to the ongoing cancer research and of the effort made to help the families afflicted with cancer.Many thanks to our various executives for their support! It made my job as team captain so much easier. A heartfelt thank you also goes out to the diehard members, to the newer members of our team, to friends and families for your contributions. All of you are responsible for the success of our Relay team. A special thank you to Francine Hurtubise. Come hell or high water she was always there to help.Although we will not have a team, I hope to see you on the track in June 2016.

Cécile Archambault, captain

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Retirement Planning Workshop/Atelier de planification à la retraiteThe RTO/ERO Retirement Planning Workshop (RPW) for active teachers was held on April 23, 2015 at the Howard Johnson Plaza. Once again it was very well attended and the future retirees greatly appreciated the information sessions and the handy material distributed. Thank you to the members of the Executive committee who prepared and hosted this valuable information workshop.

Your Executive Committee at Work

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Political Advocacy I know that it has been quite a while since I have written an article, but I can assure you that anything that the government does of a political nature that affects retired teachers is monitored very closely and acted upon as quickly as possible. My family and I have had to weather some personal difficulties in the past year and a half. Therefore, I would like to thank the members of the Executive committee for their patience, support, and understanding. I would also like to thank all the members of RTO/ERO district 4 for their kind words and support during a difficult time; it meant a great deal to me and my family.On the political scene, Sudbury has elected a new mayor, Brian Bigger, and a completely new council. Provincially, the Liberals were elected and formed a majority government. Sudbury became a political hot spot during the by-election and, after much fanfare, Glenn Thibeault became Sudbury’s MPP. On behalf of the retired teachers I wish him well and hope that he can do great things for Sudbury. We will be watching Mr. Thibeault and his government over the pending sale of Hydro One, the implementation and effects on the taxpayer of the cap-and-trade system (Carbon Tax), the Ontario Pension Plan, and their dealings with the teacher unions.Federally, the latest polls show that all three major parties are very close and anyone can win. The federal election will be held on October 19, so it is very important to keep an eye on party platforms on key issues. Also, make sure that you cast your vote.

Peter Niro

Did you know that…?In 2015, 65 years old and up Canadians received $6 768/year in Old Age Security. A couple received $13 536/year. However, there will soon be changes to the age of eligibility.

Starting in April 2023, the age of eligibility for the Old Age Security pension and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) will gradually increase from 65 to 67 over six years, with full implementation by January 2029. This change will affect people born in 1958 and later.

Future RTO/ERO members will be affected by this change, so will our children and our grand children. Are the changes fair?• Start the conversation • Expect the reversal of the changes in the age of eligibility• Know all the repercussions on the Teacher Pension Plan • Contact politicians and consider all the options• VOTEFor more information, go to http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Did you know that…? 1. Sudbury was the first Ontario municipality to own and operate its own electricity plant. 2. The City of Sudbury has the dubious honour of being the first city in Canada to install parking meters.

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Register Early for the Christmas Luncheon

Please use the following registration form to attend the Christmas Luncheon/Complétez l’inscriptionci-dessous pour participer au déjeuner-rencontre de Noël.

Howard Johnson, Brady StreetThursday, December 3, 2015/le jeudi 3 décembre, 2015

10:15 am - Meet and Greet/10 h 15 Accueil et retrouvailles11:30 am - Business Meeting/11 h 30 Réunion d’affaires12:15 pm - Buffet ($22) Cash Bar/12 h 15 Buffet (22 $) Bar payant-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Name/Nom: _______________________________________________________________________

Telephone number/Numéro de téléphone: ____________________________

Amount of cheque/Montant du chèque: _________________$ -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please make cheque payable to/Libellez votre chèque à: RTO/ERO District 4.Registration and cheque must be sent no later than November 20, 2015. Send your registration form to/Postez votre formulaire à:

Pierrette Nadeau 989, Soloy Drive Sudbury, ON P3A 1E6 (705) 524-1972

Songs That Make You Want to Travel

I Left My Heart in San Francisco Tony BennettNew York Frank SinatraFly Me To The Moon Frank SinatraCome Fly With Me Frank SinatraTicket to Ride The BeatlesOn the Road Again Willie NelsonMarrakesh Express Crosby, Stills & NashHit the Road Ray CharlesSweet Home Alabama Lynyrd SkynyrdLeaving on a Jet Plane John DenverBack in the U.S.S.R. The BeatlesKatmandu Cat StevensLife is a Highway Tom CochraneThese Boots are Made for Walking Nancy Sinatra

Rivers of Babylon Boney M.Walk Like an Egyptian The BanglesWithout a Map Sam Roberts BandHotel California The EaglesSurfin’ USA The Beach BoysViva Las Vegas ElvisCalifornia Dreamin’ Mamas & the PapasRocket Man Elton JohnAlabama Song The DoorsCome Away With Me Norah JonesCocomo Beach BoysDo You Know Your Way to San Jose Dionne Warwick

Juliette Lavoie-Gaboury

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Be PreparedSince February 2013, RTO/ERO District 4 has given me the opportunity to share with our members findings in the health care system that are available to us in Sudbury, in Ontario, and even across Canada. The area of greatest concern, as I see it, is the lack of support for family caregivers who are expected to provide long term care for those with ongoing serious health issues, including palliative care. They save the health care system huge amounts of money. Therefore, family caregivers earn and deserve our appreciation and our respect ; the system must support their work, train them to feel confident about the care they must deliver and, most importantly, medical personnel must monitor the caregivers’ health as they encounter numerous stressful situations, have little time for personal activities and tend to neglect their own health needs.This summer, the Ontario Government and LHIN requested input from the public in two different areas. The Ontario Government will select our first Patient Ombudsman and has asked us to help in the selection of a recruit. There is a link on our District 4 website so that you can learn about the responsibilities of the Ombudsman. LHIN also offered an online survey so that individuals could respond to the way money will be allocated in the next three years. I hope some of our members offered their input in both surveys. In my responses, I emphasized the need to have financial resources dedicated to the support of family caregivers. There was no mention of money dedicated to that specific need.I have been a proud member of RTO/ERO for twenty years. I have always known that my yearly membership fee of around $60 gives back huge rewards to our membership. I am aware and immensely proud of the work of member volunteers in District 4 and at the Provincial level. Our summer edition of Liaison made me smile broadly when I read about the RTO/ERO $10 000 donation to Nipissing Serenity Hospice, the only major Northern Ontario community without a Hospice. Then I read about Choosing Wisely Canada (CWC) which works to help physicians and patients “engage in conversations which aid with decision making to ensure high quality of care.” Of course, news about our Foundation Board emphasized the breadth of its “presence across Ontario” and its impact across Canada. Each new gerontology - related research discovery and learning will be shared within care teams, among professional societies and across the provinces.”I will continue to research changes within the health care system, and add links to our website, but I will write only one report per year under Be Prepared. Liaison and Renaissance are also excellent sources of information. I always appreciate your calls and our conversations at meetings; your experiences are an excellent source of information for our members who must deal with their health concerns. Monique Taylor 705 853 4772 moniquetaylor@xplornet.com

Soyez prêtsDepuis février 2013, ERO/RTO District 4 m’a donné l’occasion de partager avec nos membres les résultats des recherches dans les soins de santé dont nous disposons à Sudbury, en Ontario, et même à travers le Canada. La question la plus préoccupante, selon moi, est le manque de soutien pour les aidants naturels qui fournissent les soins de longue durée pour les personnes ayant de graves problèmes de santé, y compris les soins palliatifs. Ils épargnent d’énormes sommes d’argent pour ceux qui gèrent les soins de santé. Ces aidants naturels gagnent et méritent notre gratitude et notre respect; par conséquent, le système de santé doit soutenir leur travail, leur apprendre à se sentir confiants dans leurs habiletés. Plus important encore, le personnel médical doit surveiller la santé des aidants naturels car ils ont tendance à la négliger. Aussi, ils envisagent de nombreuses situations stressantes et ont peu de temps pour des activités personnelles. Cet été, le gouvernement de l’Ontario et le RLISS ont demandé la participation du public dans deux domaines différents. Le gouvernement de l’Ontario choisira notre premier ombudsman des patients et nous a demandé d’aider à la sélection d’un candidat. Il y a un lien sur notre site web District 4 de sorte que vous pouvez en apprendre davantage sur les responsabilités de l’ombudsman. RLISS a aussi offert un sondage en ligne afin que nous puissions offrir nos idées sur la façon dont l’argent sera réparti dans les trois prochaines années. J’espère que plusieurs de nos membres ont offert leurs idées lors des deux sondages. Dans mes réponses, je soulignais la nécessité de dédier des ressources financières au soutien des aidants naturels. Il n’y avait aucune mention de fonds dédiés à ce besoin spécifique.Je suis fière d’être membre d’ERO/RTO depuis vingt ans. J’ai toujours su que ma cotisation annuelle

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de l’ordre de 60 $ redonne grandement à nos membres. Je suis consciente et immensément fière du travail des membres bénévoles du District 4 et au niveau provincial. Notre édition d’été de Liaison m’a fait sourire quand j’ai lu que RTO/ERO a fait un don de 10 000 $ à Nipissing Serenity Hospice, la seule communauté majeure du Nord sans Hospice. Ensuite, j’ai lu au sujet de Choisir avec soin Canada (CSC), une campagne nationale qui encourage un dialogue entre le médecin et son patient afin de choisir les examens et les traitements les plus appropriés pour assurer des soins de qualité. Bien sûr, des nouvelles de notre Conseil de fondation soulignent l’ampleur de sa «présence partout en Ontario» et son impact à travers le Canada dans le domaine de la gérontologie. Les découvertes dans ce domaine seront partagées au sein des équipes de soins, des sociétés professionnelles et à travers les provinces.”Je vais continuer à faire des recherches sur les changements au sein du système de soins de santé et ajouter des liens à notre site mais je vais écrire qu’un seul rapport par année sous Soyez prêts. Liaison et Renaissance sont également d’excellentes sources d’information.J’apprécie toujours vos appels et nos conversations lors des réunions; vos expériences sont une excellente source d’information pour nos membres qui doivent envisager des problèmes de santé. Monique Taylor 705 853 4772 moniquetaylor@xplornet.com

Retired Women Teachers of Ontario/Organisation des enseignantes retraitées de l’Ontario (RWTO/OERO)Un automne bien anticipé!Même si notre groupe est petit, il ne manque pas d’enthousiasme et de coopération. Tous les postes au conseil d’administration sont comblés par des femmes qui font preuve de créativité et qui mènent à bon port les dossiers de la Région 10. Cette année, l’objectif est faire connaître davantage l’organisme RWTO -OERO et promouvoir ses activités.Quel coup d’envoi pour notre réunion générale des membres du 1er octobre: la conférencière Nathalie Poulin-Lehoux nous parlera du BONHEUR. De plus, la présidente provinciale Diane Rice sera des nôtres. Erna Fex est toujours active dans la rédaction des articles pour “Reflexions”.Apportez les sacs de lait (les gros sacs qui renferment les 3 petits sacs) car ils seront utilisés pour la confection de tapis pour les enfants de l’Haïti. Nous allons poursuivre nos activités auprès des organismes de bienfaisance, les personnes âgées dans les résidences pour personnes à la retraite ou dans les centres de santé à longue durée, la banque alimentaire et Meals on Wheels. Un comité sera mis sur pied afin d’organiser des activités du 60e anniversaire de RWTO-OERO.Soyez des nôtres et venez vous divertir et socialiser avec nous.The Sudbury branch, Area 10 is small in numbers but makes up for it in enthusiasm and cooperation. We are pleased to have all the positions on the Executive board 2015-2016 filled with bright and efficient women. We anticipate Autumn and the year ahead with bright eyes and bushy-Tales. We will concentrate our year on membership by advertising in local newspapers and by encouraging our members to ‘Bring a Friend, a new retiree, at our luncheon meeting. Our guest speaker will be Nathalie Poulin-Lehoux, a motivational speaker. We will also welcome our Provincial President, Diane Rice.Luncheon : October 1 Howard Johnson 11:30 $ 20We are in the process of forming a rug hooking group to create floor mats out of plastic milk bags for the Haitian children. Our Outreach Program will also continue to support our senior members in nursing homes and who are housebound, women and children charities, the local Food Bank and the Meals on Wheels program. We anticipate another article soon from our author-member, Erna Fex who writes wonderful ‘Reflexions’ in one of our local newspapers. Lastly, we have set up an Ad Hoc committee to prepare for the ‘Great 60th Celebration’ of our provincial organization: music, decorations, food and amusement. Once again we, the Sudbury Executive and Members continue to care and share while having fun. Laurianne Valiquette, Communications Convenor

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Spring Annual Meeting and Luncheon/Déjeuner et rencontre du printemps 2015

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FORMULAIRE D’INSCRIPTION AU DÉJEUNER RTO/ERO

HOWARD JOHNSON, RUE BRADY

Le jeudi 8 octobre, 2015

10 h 30 – 11 h Accueil & retrouvailles11 h 15 – 11 h 45 Réunion d’affaires 11 h 45 – 12 h 15 Invitée d’honneur, Sarah Walker12 h 15 Déjeuner (22$ la personne) – Bar payant ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nom : (imprimez s.v.p.)____________________________________________________

Numéro de téléphone : ________________________

Montant du chèque : _________________$ (Aucun chèque postdaté, merci)------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Veuillez libeller votre chèque à RTO/ERO District 4 et le faire parvenir avec votre formulaire d’inscription AU PLUS TARD le jeudi 24 septembre, 2015 à : Pierrette Nadeau 989, promenade Soloy Sudbury, ON P3A 1E6 (705)524-1972

Senate ReportA new Executive Director, Jim Grieve was hired. He is to start on July 1st. Harold Brathwaite will mentor him for 3 months.His background includes the following responsibilities: Teacher, School Administrator, Superintendant, Director of Education and Assistant Deputy Minister of the Early Learning Division for the Ontario Ministry of Education.A one hour informal session was introduced to the agenda. At this Senate, the topic was “We versus Them”. The Provincial Executive presented a discussion paper with History of Senate, roles and responsibilities of Senate and P.E, Political Advocacy, Financial Matters and Communications, concluding with potential solutions. Senator Max Radiff, through a motion presented a discussion paper with his rationale. Much discussion ensued but in the end it was “let sleeping dogs lie”. P.E. and members have a shared vision and we must trust that the P.E. has our best interest in making decisions.Guest Speaker was Dr. Tai Huynh, campaign manager for Choosing Wisely Canada. The rising cost of healthcare is attributed to patient wanting more care, needed or not, unnecessary tests and higher cost of drugs. He gave a very interesting talk. It is a worthwhile site to visit and to publish the address in our Newsletter and on our Website.www.choosingwiselycanada.orgwww.choisiravecsoin.orgJohnson Inc. has committed $50 000 per year for 5 years to the Foundation.John Crouse clarified the Health Plan Reserves. He dealt with how the reserves are determined, why the increased cost and what assets are balancing these reserves.OTIP and RTO/ERO met 5/6 times with OTIP’s proposal to merge and administer the plan. RTO/ERO refused. RTO/ERO did meet with Liz Sandals, the Minister of Education, to reiterate their interest in maintaining our Group plans and extending them to active members if that would be required to ensure the continuation of members to our plan. The plan growth was 5%. 80% of OTPP contributors participate in RTO/ERO’s Health Plan.The Ad Hoc Committee on Marketing reported that RPWs continue to grow. A discussion on the challenges to reach the future retirees through the affiliates followed. Bottom line – the provincial executive expressed no worry since the number of participants is still on the rise.A revised model constitution is available on line. A chart comparing the RTO/ERO Group benefits Plan to the RTIP and OMERS Plans was distributed. Jenny Ross

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Editor/éditrice: Francine Hurtubise (525-0971)fhurtubise@sympatico.ca

REGISTRATION FORM RTO/ERO’S FALL LUNCHEON

HOWARD JOHNSON, BRADY STREET

Thursday, October 8, 2015

10:30 am – 11am Meet & Greet11:15 am – 11:45 am Business Meeting11:45 am – 12:15 pm Guest speaker, Sarah Walker 12:15 pm Luncheon ($22 per person) – Cash Bar------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Name: (please print)______________________________________________________

Telephone number: _______________________________

Amount of cheque $ _________________ (Sorry, no post-dated cheques accepted)------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please make cheque payable to RTO/ERO District 4 Send your registration form to: Pierrette Nadeau 989 Soloy Drive Sudbury (ON) P3A 1E6 (705) 524-1972

Deadline for registration is Thursday, September 24, 2015.

If you have a change of address, email or phone number please contact DIANE VEZEAU at 1-800-361-9888 or by e-mail: dvezeau@rto-ero.org