Fall 2008 Newsletter - RTO/ERO District 7 Windsor-Essex

Publication
Mail Agreement
#40052373
EDITOR
John McLaughlin
Fall 2008
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Past President
Ken Attridge
978-9671
President
Al Linnell
734-1538
President-Elect
Gord Miall
944-1061
Vice-President
Simone Rickerby
979-4094
Secretary
Judy Bowden
948-5214
Treasurer
Jim Sparrow
972-0826
Asst. Treasurer
Ann Cotter
733-3266
Newsletter Editor
John McLaughlin
736-5761
Asst. Editor
John Zangari
735-7958
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Along the line of smoky hills
The crimson forest stands,
And all the day the blue-jay calls
Throughout the autumn lands.
Now by the brook the maple leans,
With all his glory spread;
And all the sumachs on the hills
Have turned their green to red.
Now, by great marshes wrapt in mist,
Or past some river's mouth,
Throughout the long still autumn day
Wild birds are flying south.
Born at Kitchener, William Wilfred Campbell
(1860-1919) was known as the poet of the
Great Lakes. He was the author of Lake
Lyrics, 1889.
There are two reasons I wanted to share
Campbell’s memorable poem that I, and many
of you as children, were required to recite
from memory. As proud retirees we face this
new Fall season with enthusiasm and hope! A
great many of us are presently facing the
inevitable realities of change (seemingly the so
called “operative word” these days)… some
pleasant, some not so pleasant. It is my hope
that the above reflection would also rekindle
thoughts of a simpler, more innocent time
filled with warm carefree secure memories as
well as awe and respect for Nature’s
abundance of beauty!
Embracing change, your talented executive is
involved with many new initiatives for the
coming year. Kudos to our Executive and
Simone Rickerby, V.P. for another well
planned “Hell with the Bell” Breakfast.
We got to meet this year’s new retirees and
would offer our collective heartfelt
congratulations to all in attendance, as well as
RETURN - RTO/ERO Publication Mail Agreement
John McLaughlin #40052373
58 Venetian Drive
Amherstburg
ON
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THE RETIRED TEACHERS OF ONTARIO - LES ENSEIGNANTES ET ENSEIGNANTES RETRAITES DE L’ONTARIO
(Visit our website at http://www.rtoero-district7.org)

est wishes for a stimulating new year. Thanks to
web-master Ann Cotter for her creative visual
documentation.
September 22 nd , saw your executive’s first meeting at
the newly named United Community’s Credit Union
Essex (formerly Woodslee Credit Union). We thank
the Credit Union for their generosity and continued
commitment to our longevity.
To date our membership enrollment is at 2,061. Our
packed Agenda pointed to many requests for money
related to exciting member community programmes.
Following the December 1 st application deadline,
funded recipients will be announced at our December
meeting. Interested members can still make
application by checking our website. We are also
committed to supporting our local “Snoezelen Room”
request for Toronto Project “Service to Others”
monies for the 2008/09 year.
Thanks to Jim Sparrow, our Treasurer and Political
Action Provincial Chair, for his recent many hours of
research (5 years of file retrieval) to bring the
Government’s Retail Sales Branch in Whitby, Ontario
the news that, as a non-profit organization, our local
RTO/ERO should not have to pay sales tax for our
newsletter as we do not collect monies through
advertising. Jim will be receiving a check soon for
over $1,700 to be returned to our account! Other
good news kudos go to Helen Biales, Windsor’s
Senior Committee’s Vice Chair, for asking Windsor’s
City Hall to consider hiring a “Seniors Advocate”, a
voice for seniors overall. She says “seniors have paid
more taxes than anybody else and they deserve respect,
quality services, and a friendly municipal ear!” Many
thanks to Norm Renaud, our district Political Action
Chair and Provincial representative for Project Service
to Others, for seeing that an important message from
our local RTO/ERO will be broadcast forty times
throughout the election period to let the public know
our concerns as retired educators. Norm also sits on
our Bursary Committee with seven other members of
our Executive and is researching a new way for our
local District to interact with future University of
Windsor student teacher recipients. Special recognition
must go to Sheila Wright, former Executive member
and Chair of this important outreach committee, for
her many hours of excellent leadership and dedicated
service to this process. Sincere appreciation goes to
our Member Records Chair, Dorothy Clement, who
has given thirteen years of fine dedication to this
committee since 1995. Dorothy will be finishing her
long tenure as of December and, prior to that, helping
us find her replacement. We wish her and husband
Jerry the very best! Many thanks also go to
Professors Peggy Buck (U. of W.) and Jim
Mroczkowski (Faculty of Nipissing), to Web-Master,
Ann Cotter, to Don Learn, and to Simone Rickerby
for their talented support of this year’s education
workshops for our members. We are grateful to St.
Gregory Parish for the use of their excellent facility.
Judy Bowden, our talented Secretary will now also be
our new teacher liaison representative with the Faculty
of Education, University of Windsor. We thank
Simone Rickerby (V.P) for her excellent work as past
representative. Finally, special get well wishes must go
out to Executive member Emy McBride regarding her
recent golf course mishap.
Your Executive will have four of our members in
attendance at the Fall Pre-Senate in Stratford and
Senate in Toronto (names TBA). We wish our
Provincial Representative Bob Lamoureux “good
luck” as he is seeking office again as 2 nd Vice-
President.
We look forward to seeing you at our November 13 th
Fall Luncheon along with our Crafters and guest
speaker Ken Attridge, Past President & Certified
Senior Advisor (C.S.A.) with a presentation focusing
on medical, social, and financial issues for seniors.
More information will follow regarding our 25 th
Anniversary. Please also let our Executive know if
you have an interest in becoming a replacement on one
of our many committees. In the meantime, check out
your local and Provincial Office Directory at
www.rto-ero.org and please note Sport Fest Windsor
at www.sport-fest.ca as they are now supporting a
newly formed National Registry for organ and tissue
donation. A Tissue Donor Registration form can be
found at www.giftoflife.on.ca.
A final thought on living your dreams………
Alice laughed. “There’s no use trying,” she said.
“One can’t believe impossible things.”
“I daresay you haven’t had much practice”, said the
Queen. “When I was your age, I always did it for
half an hour a day. Why, sometimes, I’ve believed as
many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
( Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking Glass)
Warm regards,
Al Linnell

RTO/ERO District 7
FALL LUNCHEON 2008
You’re Invited
Vous Êtes Invités
Place:
Date:
Fogolar Furlan Club
1800 E.C. Row Avenue
Thursday, November 13th
Times: 10:45 a.m. Arrival
Cash Bar
12:15 noon Luncheon
Luncheon Ticket Prices
Members $20.00
Guests $23.00
MENU
Individual Antipasto Italiano
- salami, capicollo, cheese, celery,
green and black olives
Penne with Meat Sauce
Tossed Salad
Breaded Chicken Breast
Roasted Potatoes
Green beans with butter and garlic
Apple pie with ice cream on the side
Bread and Butter
Coffee/Tea
Vegetarian meals available upon request
Arts and Crafts Display from 10:45 a.m. and after lunch
Speaker: Ken Attridge on Elder Abuse
FALL LUNCHEON
Thursday, November 13, 2008
NAME ADDRESS RTO/ERO MEMBER/GUEST AMOUNT
Do you require a Vegetarian Meal? Yes ______
Are you a New Retiree? Yes _____
Please pay by cheque, payable to: RTO/ERO District 7 - Please return this form and your cheque
by Friday, October 31 to: Ass’t Treasurer, Ann Cotter, 90 Harbourview, Kingsville ON, N9Y 2J2
(For further information please call 519-733-3266.)

RTO / ERO DISTRICT 7
CRAFTS / ARTISANS SHOW
The District 7 RTO/ERO Executive are pleased to host the 3rd annual Craft/
Artisan Show and Sales at our Fall Lunch Meeting on Thursday, November
13, 2008 at the Fogolar Furlan Club. Have you prepared some items for a
School Fair… a Church Bazaar…. A Club / Sorority Sale…Art in the Park…( or
Alley )? We know that there is a great deal of artistic talent within the District 7
membership.
What better way to display this talent ( and make some money ) than to highlight
these talents at our November 13, Fall Luncheon. We have 8 to 10 booths set
aside for our participants that will be open before and after the luncheon.
10.45 AM-12PM and then 1PM-2PM.
There is no charge for participants ( who must be RTO/ERO
members ). There is a requirement that participants register for
the luncheon however ( a subsidized cost of $20.00 ).
Photos of the products, as available, will be posted on our local web site.
(http://www.rtoero-district7.org) or the Provincial website (http://www.rto-ero.org)
Click on district web site; then click on District 7 Windsor-Essex.)
……………………………………………………………………………………………
NAME ___________________________ PHONE _______________________
ADDRESS _______________________________________________________
E-MAIL _________________________________________________________
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION __________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
Forward a good quality photo to : Gord Miall, 870 Patrice Dr., Windsor,
Ont. N8S 2R8
Phone 519-944-1061 e-mail – gmiall@cogeco.ca

Vice President’s Report Simone Rickerby
I recently attended a Presidents’ Workshop held in Toronto and organized by the RTO/ERO Provincial
office. Our keynote speaker Charles Pascal focused on “Enhancing Effective Leadership”. He also made
us reflect on the qualities of a good leader and those who inspired us to become administrators or persons
of responsibility. Re-Net was outlined as a new method of communication for Presidents. Harold Braithwaite
spoke on the future of the organization. A District/Unit Presidents’ Handbook has been created and
distributed. Sheets of RTO/ERO Provincial Resources were distributed and will be a great asset to
presidents.
The break-out groups examining “Best Practices” and “What We Do Well” in our districts was very
informative and sharing of the same struggles was prevalent. We all agreed that the main focus which makes
us who we are as an organization are the people who dedicate their time to goodwill and who bring joy and
a feeling of caring to the senior Seniors of our organization.
Many thanks to the ladies in our District who dedicate so many hours sending cards, visiting homes and
bringing small gifts to our senior members.
Committee Reports Simone Rickerby
Social Committee
We really appreciate all who signed up for our Fall Golf tournament but unfortunately there were not
enough for us to hold our tournament. I apologize to those who had shown an interest to play and who
were as disappointed as I was.
The Art workshops were held on October 18 th at St. Gregory the Great Parish Hall. Those who attended
came away with information and a sense of accomplishment. We will continue to offer these workshops.
If missed this time, make sure you sign up for the next group.
Many thanks to St. Gregory the Great Church for the use of their hall. A special thank you to our
presenters: Ann Cotter, Don Learn, Peggy Buck. Jim Mroczkowski, and Al Linnel for dedicating their
time and expertise. Looking forward to our next workshops.
25 th Anniversary Update
The committee is still meeting and planning. If you have ideas we would love to hear from you. Our thanks
to all of you who signed up to help us. Many hands make the load light.
Teacher Education Liaison Committee ( TELC)
The teacher education liaison committee had to postpone the organized Federation Day for Teacher
Candidates due to the University of Windsor strike. The date was rescheduled for October 17 and was
very informative with heads of federation outlining information about each affiliate.
I would like to thank Judy Bowden who will be replacing me on the committee. It has been a pleasure
for me to sit on this committee for the last 4 years.
District 7 Grants
District 7 of RTO/ERO sets aside approximately $1500.00 yearly for special grants to non-profit groups
and organizations which have projects or would like to initiate a project that would benefit children, seniors
or the community in general. Visit our website (www.rtoero-district7.org) to access a copy of the application
form. The deadline for grant applications is January 1, 2009.

The Annual “To Hell with the Bell” Breakfast
A group of new RTOERO members celebrate retirement on the first day of school..
More than 100 retired teachers met at Dominion Golf Club on Tuesday, September 2nd, for a hearty
breakfast and to meet friends and new retirees at the annual “To Hell with the Bell” breakfast. Past-
President Ken Attridge started the morning off by ringing the traditional school bell. President Al Linnell
welcomed everyone, including the 17 new retirees who attended and Past Provincial President, Ron
Stephens. Vice-President Simone Rickerby spoke about upcoming events: the Art Workshops on Oct.
18 and the 25th Anniversary Dinner to be held in 2010. Our thanks go out to Simone for all her hard
work on behalf of the membership and also to the management and staff at Dominion Golf Club.
Ken Rings the Bell Attendance was Large and Lively Ron Stephens

HEALTH MATTERS
WORLD ACCESS CANADA
On June 2, 2008, World Access officially changed its name to “Mondial Assistance”. Please note
that while the contact numbers for any travel inquiries or emergencies will not change from that
listed in your Group Benefits Program booklets, Health Plan participants who call World Access
will be greeted with, “Mondial Assistance, formally World Access”. The company’s website will
change to www.mondial-assistance.ca .
SUPPLEMENTAL TRAVEL
The HS&IC ( Health Services and Insurance Committee) has approved a new Supplemental Travel
Option effective September 1, 2008. A new Five Day Trip Option will be available for purchase under
the RTO/ERO’s Supplemental Travel Plan. The negotiated rates are as follows:
single - $65
couple - $130
family - $143
A communication piece will be included in each renewal package advising Supplemental Travel
Plan participants of the new trip option.
HEART ATTACK WARNING SIGNALS
Thousands of Canadians die from heart attacks every year because they do not get medical
treatment quickly enough. Learn to recognize the signals of a heart attack, so you can react
quickly to save a life.
• Sudden discomfort or pain that does not go away with rest.
• Chest pain or discomfort that is brought on with exertion and goes away with rest.
• Pain that may be in the chest, neck, jaw, shoulder, arms or back.
• Pain that may feel like burning, squeezing, heaviness, tightness or pressure (in women pain
may be more vague).
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Indigestion, nausea or vomiting.
• Sweating or cool, clammy skin.
• Fear, anxiety or denial.
If you are experiencing any of these signals, you should:
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately, or have someone call for you. Keep
a list of emergency numbers near the phone at all times.
• Stop all activity and sit or lie down in whatever position is most comfortable.
• If you take nitroglycerin, take your normal dosage.
• If you are experiencing chest pain, chew and swallow one adult 325 mg ASA tablet
(acetylsalicylic acid, commonly referred to as Aspirin) or two 80 mg tablets. Pain medicines such
as acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Advil) do not work the same way as ASA (i.e.
Aspirin) and therefore will not help in the emergency situation described above.
• Rest comfortably and wait for emergency medical services to arrive.
Source: Heart & Stroke Foundation Canada.

GOODWILL COMMITTEE
HAPPY HALLOWE'EN! Hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. We need your support to make
our committee function well. Please call a committee member to report the need for a sympathy, get well,
special anniversary or thinking-of-you card. We often hear from members or their families concerning
how much a card is appreciated. (Don't forget to join the birthday club when you turn 75.)
At our fall luncheon we are supporting the needy. Please be generous with your canned goods.
See you November 13.
Contact:
Val Luscott 519-839-5128
Mary Mason 519-735-1766
Glenna Hemphill 519-735-7022
BREAKFAST IN THE COUNTY
Val Luscott
On Tuesday, September 2 nd , approximately ninety-seven retired teachers met for breakfast at
Colasanti’s. It is always good to get together on this particular day. This year John Woodbridge was
joined by his friend Peter Scorar.They piped their entrance dressed in full Scottish regalia and I forgot
my camera! They then accompanied us in O Canada. More than one person remarked what a moving
experience that had been.
Joe Colasanti always makes sure we have a plentiful buffet as well as complimentary house plants.
Numbers were drawn for the winners.
Thanks go to Sandy Wrench who collected the money and paid the bill and to Jessie Klein-Lebbink and
Helga Bailey who read a school related item, “How children interpret the Bible”. Ethel Allison always
gives a heartfelt grace.
GARDEN DEDICATION IN HONOUR OF ETHEL ALLISON
At age 88, Ethel Allison is still a prolific volunteer in her community. Recently the Maidstone
Bicentennial Museum dedicated their quilt garden in front of the museum in her honour. Ethel has been
a member of the museum since it was established in 1984. Maidstone Historical Society’s president,
Victoria Beaulieu praised Ethel’s involvement in their children’s programmes and her work in obtaining
information for their archives. Ethel promises to continue her volunteer work for as long as she is able.
Her example is a model for all of us.
A. V. GRAHAM TEACHER WINS NATIONAL POSTER CONTEST
Nelly Brady, a visual arts teacher at A.V. Graham School, recently won the Canadian Teachers’
Federation national poster competition. Her multicultural theme, reflecting diversity among the student
population, is on 28,000 posters displayed in schools across Canada.
Congratulations to Mrs. Brady on an outstanding achievement.

LIFE AS A RETIREE
by Helen Biales
It was June, 1996, when I once again made a
major change in my life. After 35 years of
teaching and being involved in federation work,
I decided to retire. School Board amalgamations
were looming and I decided I did not want to go
through another major change in education.
Several friends asked me what I would do with
my time. Wouldn't I be bored? Boredom has
certainly not been part of my vocabulary. There
are so many things to do and become involved
in: things I did not have time to do while I taught.
I could sleep in or take the time to read the paper
and do the puzzles as I sipped my coffee.
I immediately became involved in the Retired
Teachers of Ontario at the local level and
eventually ended up as Provincial President. That
was followed by my involvement at the national
level in the Canadian Association of Retired
Teachers. Currently I am serving my second year
as president. I have always been an advocate for
teachers’ rights and now my advocacy extends to
the rights of retirees and seniors.
At the local level, I was appointed to the City of
Windsor's Senior Advisory Committee. Here
again I am involved in advocating with the city
of Windsor on behalf of seniors. To me it is
important that seniors’ concerns be heard and
acted upon by those in positions of responsibility.
As a new committee, we are collecting
information from seniors on their concerns.
Many charitable organizations are always
looking for board members. Retirees have more
time to serve in this capacity and because of our
background we are frequently sought out to
serve. I am a board member for the Alzheimer's
Society of Windsor Essex and have just been
appointed to the board of Hiatus House. These
are two of the many organizations in the city that
provide much needed services in our community.
In the summer, I try to get out and golf as much
as I can. This year I belonged to two golf
leagues. I enjoy being able to go out in the
morning to play eighteen holes of golf. By early
afternoon I am home to finish reading the paper.
In the winter time I bowl in a league. The social aspect
of these sports is as important as the activity.
Whenever I can, I also travel. I've had some wonderful
trips over the years. The nice part of travelling as a
retiree is one can go in the off- season. It's lovely not
having to battle the crowds or travel at the hottest time
of the year. This month I am flying to Budapest,
Hungary to take a river boat cruise to Amsterdam. This
is a great way to travel. Unpack once and visit several
cities and countries without having to pack and unpack.
In November, I will be going on a long awaited trip to
the Galapagos. I am quite excited to visit this world
heritage area.
I am also active in my church, counting money, serving
funeral masses, and working on several
other committees. At the Diocesan level, I am a cofacilitator
in the Diaconate program. This is a program
that prepares men to become deacons in the church. I
find this quite interesting as it is probably as
educational for me as for the candidates.
So for those fearing retirement because they might be
bored – there is plenty to occupy your time. You just
have to choose your activities and you will be kept very
busy. Retired life is great!
Helen and her cousin, Joan (on left), enjoyed a trip
to Pri Dunaji in Slovakia

Our
deepest
sympathy
to
their
families
and
friends
In Memoriam
January 08 - August 08
David Ash
Audrey Bedford Anna Marie Giamberardino Helen Lord
Barry Bostwick Allan Greig Majda Manojlovich
Theron Buchanan Patricia Halladay Louise Olsen
William Byng Dorothy Hallam Alan Pavin
Edward Clifford Nora Helfrich Ruth Scholz
Donald Dawe Helen Irwin Inez Sheppard
H.M. Findlay Mary Kane John Sherman
Lily Gawley Bonnie Kernaghan Ethel Stopford
Retirees as of September, 2008
Jerry Clement
Nina Kennedy
Rose Anne Marentette
Rita Quinn
Pat Hickmott
Ron Kennedy
Patricia Tomaszewski
Adelia Pavlica
Jamie Hillman
Peni Payne
David McNair
Ernie Chauvin
Gwen Hinton
Lynn Santarossa
Liz Kendall
Sue Calleja
John Hogan
Debbie Oehlerking
Greg Mailloux
Sybren Reitsma

WELCOME NEW RTO/ERO MEMBERS
The following 108 retirees have joined RTO/ERO between August 2007 and August 2008. We look
forward to them becoming active members of District 7, RTO/ERO.
Anthony Aczel
Gerald Adams
Bertha Alba
Irene Andriash
Marie Ash
Olimpia Aversa
Grant Balsdon
Helen Beaupre
Edmund Bellaire
Diane Benkendorf
Kenneth Billey
Lorraine Blanchard
Hannelore Bostwich
Susan Bramburger
Katherine Buchanan
David Buchner
Catherine Cada
Larry Calhoun
Dean Campagna
Barbara Campeau
Roland Cassidy
James Chambers
Ernest Chauvin
Jerry Clement
Joan Cornwall
Robert Corrado
Alexander Crane
Therese D'Amours-Levesque
Paul Doesburg
Janis Dominato
John Driedger
Margaret Driedger
Gregory Dunlop
Mary Faccenda
Joyce Findlay
Judy Foreman
Joan Garceau
James Gibson
Kevin Greenwood
Raymond Guillet
Linda Hallinan
Roseanne Herold
Gwendolyne Hinton
Debra Honor
Barbara Hungler
Donald Irwin
Mary Kaufmann
Mary Catherine Kennedy
Ronald Kennedy
Karen Kersey
Judy Krol
Maureen Kuzak
Maxine Lacasse
Anita Lancop
Diane Lebonte
Paul Lojewski
Helen Lord
Debra Lukas
Susanne Lutsch
Dawn Marcotte
Rose Anne Marentette
James Martin
Richard Masaro
Helen McKelvie
Warwick Mercer
Deborah Monk
Sheila Mosley
Sandra Muma
Linda Naismith
Gary Osley
Mary Margaret Parent
Grant Park
Christine Pastorius
Adilia Pavlica
Penilou Payne
Brenda Phaneuf
David Piche
Mary Ann Polachok
William Pollard
Georgette Portelance
Elizabeth Pottle
Paul Reaume
Elizabeth Reid Campbell
Nancy Rice
Diana Robinson
John Robinson
Sharron Robinson
Janet Romiens
Harold Roth
Kathleen Roy
Robert Rumble
Lynn Santarossa
Richard Schloz
Diane Schroeder
Adrian Scott
Colleen Shannon
Deborah Simone
Harriet Stone
Gary Ternovan
Dino Tesolin
Patricia Tomaszewski
Marilyn Tremblay
Helen Vasilic
Donna Voinaroski
Alida Warwick
Wally Wickens
Charles Wright
Bess Zivanovich
Teachers never retire, they just mark time.
Golfers never retire, they just lose their drive.
Academics never retire, they just lose their faculties. Farmers never retire, they just go to seed.
Musicians never retire, they just decompose. Bankers never retire, they just lose interest.
Accountants never retire, they just lose their balance. Arborists never retire, they just branch out.

RTO/ERO DISTRICT 7 TABLE EXECUTIVE 2007-2008
RETAIN FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
POSITION NAME PHONE E-MAIL
PAST PRES. Ken Attridge 978-9671 kenattridge@sympatico.ca
PRESIDENT Al Linnell 734-1538 alinnell@cogeco.ca
PRESIDENT ELECT Gord Miall 944-1061 gmiall@cogeco.ca
VICE-PRESIDENT Simone Rickerby 979-4094 simspal@aol.ca
SECRETARY Judith Bowden 948-5214 judithcbowden@hotmail.com
TREASURER Jim Sparrow 972-0826 sparrowj@sympatico.ca
Asst. TREASURER Ann Cotter 733-3266 ann_cotter@teksavvy.com
CHAIRPERSONS & COMMITTEES
ARCHIVIST Emy McBride 945-1380 emily.mcbride@sympatico.ca
COMMUNICATION
Newsletter Editor John McLaughlin 736-5761 jmclaugh@cogeco.ca
Assistant Editor John Zangari 735-7958 zangari@wincom.net
Web Master Ann Cotter 733-3266 ann_cotter@teksavvy.com
Media Relations Rep. Mike Murphy 736-6518 mmurphy17@cogeco.ca
GOODWILL
City Mary Mason 735-1766
City Glenna Hemphill 735-7022 rhemphill@sympatico.ca
County Val Luscott 839-5128 luscotts@gosfieldtel.com
HEALTH Doran McTaggart 948-0637 doranmct@aol.com
MEMBERSHIP
Member Records Dorothy Clement 735-5543 dorjer@sympatico.ca
PENSION Keith Robertson 948-4407 k.rob6@sympatico.ca
POLITICAL ACTION Norm Renaud 948-6859 norm.sof@sympatico.ca
SOCIAL Simone Rickerby 979-4094 simspal@aol.ca
Travel Bill Bowden 948-5214 billben9999@yahoo.ca
PROVINCIAL REPS Margaret Clarke Member Services mclarke@wincom.net
Bob Lamoureux Executive Member lamoureuxbob@netscape.net
Jim Sparrow Political Action sparrowj@sympatico.ca
Norm Renaud Project-Service to Others norm.sof@sympatico.ca
RTO/ERO PROVINCIAL OFFICE
1-800-361-9888 (TOLL FREE - Canada & United States)
FAX (416) 962-1061
Website www.rto-ero.org
Office Hours 8:30a.m. to 5:30p.m., Monday to Friday
ONTARIO TEACHERS PENSION PLAN BOARD
1-800-668-0105 FAX (416)730-5349
Website www.otpp.com
Office Hours 8:00a.m. to 5:30p.m., Monday to Friday
JOHNSON INC.
(RTO/ERO Health Plan Administrator)
Service 1-800-461-4597 C Claims 1-800-638-4753

NOTICE BOARD
Downtown Mission in Need of Food Donations
The Windsor Downtown Mission is in urgent need of canned goods or other non-perishable foods.
To get a list of current food needs call 519-973-5573 or email the Downtown Mission at
foodroom@downtownmission.com.
Food donations can be dropped off at the Downtown Mission Food Bank, 664 Victoria Ave.,
Windsor between 8.00 a.m. and 4 p.m. Perishable food donations can be dropped off at Manning
Road Animal Hospital, 1630 Manning Road at the following times:
Monday- Friday: 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Saturday: 9.00 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Elder Abuse
At the November 13 Fall Luncheon, Ken Attridge will speak on the topic of Elder Abuse and its
various forms. Ken is a certified Seniors Advisor. He will discuss the indicators of elder abuse and
the prevention of elder abuse. A handout will also be available.
The issue of elder abuse is a main priority of the Ontario Government. A Fact Sheet on the topic is
is available online at the Provincial RTO/ERO website (www.rto-ero.org) or may be obtained by
calling RTO/ERO Provincial office at 1-800-361-9888 and asking for a copy to be mailed to you.
Applications for Provincial Committee Membership
A prerequisite for application to be a member of a Provincial Committee of RTO/ERO is previous
or current service at the local RTO/ERO District 7 level. There are currently 4 members of District
7 RTO/ERO involved either in the Provincial Executive or as Committee Chairs or Committee
members. All of them have current or previous RTO/ERO service experience at the local level.
The 60-day Window for Medical Coverage
If you know of anyone, soon turning 65 and eligible for health insurance coverage under
RTO/ERO, who is covered under a spouse’s plan outside of RTO/ERO, or who is turning 65
and still under a school board plan, he or she needs to know that there is a 60-day window after
the termination of the current plan to enroll in the RTO/ERO benefit plan without a medical. If
the 60-day window is missed, a prior medical is necessary. Around 40% of those who do not
enroll before the expiry of the 60-day window encounter problems, usually because of preexisting
medical conditions.
(Visit our website at http://www.rtoero-district7.org)

When Caregivers Forget To Take Care
“I’ll try to hold my breath…just until we get through this next transition” … “ If I just push a little
further, I can rest later” … but later never comes. If you provide care for a friend or family member,
these strategies sound all too familiar.
Unfortunately, caregivers are less likely than non-caregivers to get enough sleep, eat healthy,
exercise, stay in bed when sick or keep up with their own medical appointments.
If you are one of the generous individuals giving of your time, money and energy to care for an older
relative, but find yourself pushing your needle past empty on a regular basis, consider the effects of
your priorities. When caregivers neglect their own needs, the result is often two people in need of
help rather than just the one initial care recipient. If your motivation is to provide the very best care,
remember that keeping yourself physically and emotionally strong is a responsible and loving choice.
Your are the conduit of care – keep the lines in good shape.
Ways Self-Care Promotes Better Care of Others
If you are a caregiver:
1. Care recipients often reflect the stress of their caregivers. Organizing routine respite into your
schedule will help you feel balanced and reduce stress. Don’t wait until you are overwhelmed
and creating a crisis for you and the person for whom you are providing care.
2. Time you spend in meditation or prayer at your place of worship will help you remember why
you have made the commitment to provide care and how much of the result is out of your
control. Your job is to be the best possible companion on the journey.
3. Exercise protects you from injury, especially when the care recipient needs physical help such
as assistance transferring to and from a wheelchair or bed.
4. Prepare a list of things that need to be done. This makes it easier to delegate when someone
offers help. By letting others help, you are providing a web of support rather than a single
lifeline.
5. Joining a support group to vent your feelings can also connect you to information and
resources about your care recipient’s condition. This kind of information helps you anticipate
certain needs and ask better questions of medical professionals.
You are the resource for care for your care recipient. They would be lost without you. Putting
yourself first is the most unselfish act you could perform for your care recipient. If you are a
caregiver, be sure to take care of YOU.
Provided by
Ken Attridge, M.Ed., CFP, CSA
Past President RTO/ERO District 7
Reprinted with permission of the Canadian Academy of Senior Advisors
Contact RTO/ERO about an Address Change
If you have changed your address, contact Dianne Vezeau at RTO/ERO. Provincial Office provides
the address information for each member and, if the address is out of date, local ERO/RTO District 7
has to pay additional postage on each undeliverable newsletter. Phone: 1-800-361-9888 ext. 223 or
email: dvezeau@rto-ero.org
If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen defrocked, then doesn't it follow that electricians can be
delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys deranged, models deposed, tree surgeons debarked, and dry
cleaners depressed?

Agenda Item 4 e )
September 18 t h
Meeting
FACT SHEET
IDENTITY THEFT
E-11
A. Background
The crime of identity theft occurs when someone, without knowledge or permission, acquires personal
information and uses it to commit fraud. It is the intent of this Fact Sheet to provide preventive measures
to minimize personal risk against a selected sample of identity theft schemes.
A list of website links is included in the reference/glossary. Members should view this Fact Sheet as a
cursory overview of this complex topic and take their own steps to ensure that they do not become victims,
including becoming vigilant against new scams that appear on a regular basis.
B. Stolen Mail and Trash
1. Paper items containing financial information and personal identification should never be included with
recyclables and trash.
2. Invest in a crosscut or diamond-cut shredder and shred all financial statements, credit/debit card slips,
pre-approved credit offers, blank cheques (including those from pre-approved credit offers), cancelled
cheques, tax information, cheque attachments, business items, credit cards, phone calling cards, CDs
containing personal information; basically anything that contains personal information and identification.
3. Mail should not be left in rural or apartment mailboxes when on vacation or away for an extended period
of time.
C. Credit Reports
1. Request a credit report at periodic intervals and check carefully for unauthorized inquiries, address
changes or account activity. If possible, get reports from more than one source. Credit reports
provide plenty of background information that would assist an identity thief.
2. Place fraud alerts with Trans Union (1.877.525.3823) and Equifax (1.800.465.7166) if an identity
has been compromised.
D. Cheques, Bank/Credit Cards and Related Statements
1. Review various statements electronically, on line, or as soon as they arrive, for accuracy. This is the
time to shed related slips once vetted against personal statements. Report unauthorized items right
away.
2. Don’t put phone numbers on cheques. Have new cheques sent to the bank instead of a residence.
3. Try to have a photo on credit and identification cards. Instead of signing the back of such cards, print
“Photo ID required” in indelible black ink.

E. ATMs or Point-of-Sale Keypads
1. Thieves use tiny cameras hidden on themselves and elsewhere to spy on individuals as they input
PINs at ATMs or point-of-sale keypads on checkout counters. Shield the keypad when using these.
2. Try not to hand credit cards to servers who take them for processing. Pay at the cashier or insist they
bring the machine to the table. Ensure cards are not swiped more than once.
Thieves make duplicate passes with the cards, then steal the information to access accounts.
3. PINs should be changed regularly. Personal information should not be on a card slips.
F. Internet and Email
1. When receiving a new computer, avoid the temptation to go online immediately. Take the time to
activate, register and update the virus protection program. Many computers are compromised in the
first fifteen minutes online because the operator began to browse before initiating the anti-virus
program.
2. Most malware is constructed to target Microsoft products (Internet Explorer and Outlook Express).
Other products seem less susceptible to attack, might have superior features, and typically are no-cost
items, e.g. Mozilla’s Firefox browser and Thunderbird and Google’s Gmail e-mail program.
3. Those with DSL or cable high speed service, especially with wireless access, are especially vulnerable
to identity thieves. Turn computers when you not using them. Protect wireless networks with
passwords to protect unwanted access.
4. If storing passwords electronically, consider using a removable drive with no locating information on
it, instead of a hard drive. Avoid copy-and-pasting passwords. Thieves use programs which harvest
data from temporary memory. Remove temporary internet files regularly.
5. Online money transfer services (PayPal is one example) pose significant risks. Register only lowcredit-limit
credit cards or a low-balance bank account with such a service. See “Phishing” below.
6. Never click on a link then enter personal or account information. Instead, open a new browser and
go directly to the company’s site and log in from there.
7. Install and regularly update appropriate firewalls (free at www.zonealarm.com), anti-spyware (free at
www.microsoft.com/athome/security/spyware/software/default.mspx), and virus protection (free at
www.avast.com). Routinely (or automatically) check for Windows or other operating system updates
and install them.
8. Remember that VoiP (Voice-over-Internet Protocol) telephones can be hacked and conversations
eavesdropped upon. VoiP providers can help users protect themselves against this type of potential
identity theft.
9. Avoid aiding and abetting spam (unsolicited junk e-mail), the mechanism by which much of online
identity threats are spread. Do not forward those jokes, hoaxes, chain letters etc..forwarded to you. If
an email must be forwarded, copy and paste it into a new message and send it to a specific individual.
10. Avoid sending e-mail messages to entire lists unless the blind carbon copy (BCC) feature is used, so
that individual email addresses are not revealed to the other recipients. Thieves love getting entire e-
mail lists and compiling masses of them for sale to spammers.
G. Phishing and Spoofing
1. Thieves will send emails with special offers or requests for information. Often, such emails
look legitimate, using exact logos and identifiers of trusted businesses. However, the
legitimate businesses never ask for such information or make such offers on line.
Sometimes, the tip-off to illegal activity lies in the awkward sentence structure or misspelled
words of the message. Forward such messages to the legitimate website of the organization
and ask for verification.

2. Never click on a link in an unexpected e-mail. If a fraudulent e-mail from its very
appearance in an inbox looks suspicious, don’t even open it, because the simple act of
opening it may compromise a computer. Three sources of such phishing often involve fake
banks, EBay or PayPal.
3. Some e-mails ask to update account information. Immediately forward such requests to the
legitimate websites of these or other relevant companies (see above). Financial institutions
do not contact clients by e-mail; neither does Microsoft, Bill Gates, etc.
H. General Information
1. Don’t leave information open to view, even at home. Keep personal information in a secure
place, ideally not in a dresser. Maintain a back-up list of all card numbers with emergency
800 numbers, and include items such as passports, licences, credit cards and SINs. Keep this
list in a secure place (with copies for your spouse/partner), but not on the hard drive of a
computer.
2. Passwords should be changed on a regular basis. Do not use the same password for all
applications and don’t use obvious passwords such as a mother’s maiden name or partner’s
birthdate. Use a password which is case sensitive, alpha-numeric and at least 6 characters
long, preferably more. Keep a secure list of your passwords, logins and what each relates to
(but not on a hard drive). Update these lists regularly. If possible, passwords and
licence/card numbers should be memorized.
3. When ordering new or replacement cards, make a note to watch for the incoming mail. If the
replacements don’t arrive in a week or so, notify the issuers. Cancel all cards not used for six
months. “Open” credit is a prime target.
4. The three-digit code on the back of a credit card must be safeguarded. If a thief gets it, it is
very difficult to prevent unauthorized on line or phone use of the card.
5. Don’t carry a Social Insurance card, birth certificate or passport unless necessary.
6. Be very cautious about using credit cards for on-line payments, and if so, ensure that it’s on a
secure site (beginning with “https”).
7. If donating to a tele-marketed charity or responding to a request from someone who asks for
personal information, ask them to send a request in the mail or tell them you’ll look up their
phone number and so that a call will be placed with them to verify the authenticity of the
request. Persevere and resist through their encouragement to “do it now, on the phone”.
8. Don’t permit photocopying of documents when asked to provide your ID.
9. Use initials on phone directories, not full names.
10. Cell phone users who are on line should be vigilant and alert and should seek advice from
service providers with respect to protection against identity theft.
11. Banks and other financial institutions never ask for personal information over the phone. If
someone tries to “verify” an account or asks for “help to catch an internal thief”, this is a
scam. Try to get a phone number from them and then call the bank to report the phone
numbers as possibly fraudulent.
12. The Ontario government has a plan to ensure that property will not be lost as a result of the
registration of a falsified mortgage (obtained with stolen identity), a fraudulent sale of
property or a counterfeit power of attorney. As well, consumers in Ontario have the right to
have fraud alerts placed on their credit report to help stop identity thieves from using their
personal information to commit fraud.

I. Resources
While it is believed that these links represent reliable sources of information, it is a
member’s responsibility to verify authenticity. RTO/ERO takes no responsibility for a
site’s purported accuracy, completeness or reliability.
If you are accessing an electronic version of this fact sheet, practise cutting and pasting the
links into your browser address line. This enhances your internet security. Phone numbers, if
available, are also provided.
1. Safe Canada.ca (Fed. Govt.) about a hundred clickable links for useful information
http://www.safecanada.ca/identitytheft_e.asp
2. Ontario government’s website at www.seniorsinfo.ca has links to information for seniors in
general, and for victims of identity theft in particular.
3. Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) - fourteen links to relevant articles
http://www.carp.ca/display.cfm?SEARCHTERM=identity+theft&search=yes
4. Canadian Snowbirds’ Association alert re a fraudulent US Internal Revenue Service W8-BEN
form – particularly useful for members who spend a significant amount of time or own
property in the US http://www.snowbirds.org/html/w8-BENScam.html
5. Consumer Measures Committee, Consumer issues and information kits for seniors
http://cmcweb.ca/epic/site/cmc-cmc.nsf/en/Home
6. “Heads Up” Fraud prevention Association – a useful, point-form set of recommendations
along with dozens of useful links for further information http://www.headsup.
ca/schemes_id_theft.htm
7. RCMP Phonebusters www.phonebusters.com
8. Calgary Police Service – a useful set of information and recommendations
http://www.calgarypolice.ca/sections/crimeprev/identity.html
9. Halifax Regional Police http://www.halifax.ca/Police/Programs/fraudprevention.html
10. US Federal Trade Commission – a variety of useful links
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/about-identity-theft.html
11. US Credit Advisor – good one-pager on safeguarding personal identity, and the relative
sensitivity of personal information
http://www.yourcreditadvisor.com/blog/2006/10/the_ultimate_gu.html
12. CBC Marketplace item on phishing
http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/scams/phishing/index.html
13. CIBC/Mellon page related mostly to phishing. Other useful links.
http://www.cibcmellon.com/Contents/en_CA/English/AboutUs/EmailFraud.html
14. University of BC publication - A virtual internet security fact sheet in itself
http://www.cariboo.bc.ca/cpj/identitytheft.html
15. Google.ca - Enter identity theft prevention and click on “Canadian Sites Only”. The sidebar
has links to useful information including sources of credit reports.
16. US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – variety of A/V information on on-line banking
fraud http://anon.vodium.com.edgesuite.net/anon.vodium/fdic/identitytheft/index.htm

UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN 2008
“Together, we’re changing lives.”
Retirees in Essex County have a strong tradition of supporting the community. You know about the good
things the United Way does in our community. Thanks to the generosity of the RTO/ERO District 7 Retirees,
$15,909.00 was donated to the United Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County in 2007. Those donations have a
direct impact on children and youth, families and individuals, persons with disabilities, seniors and the whole
community. Your United Way contribution has a direct and lasting impact on the lives of people right here in
Windsor and Essex County.
The Impact
After 60 years in Windsor-Essex County your local United Way has learned a few things.
We know that …mentoring programs increase a child’s likelihood of being successful in academics and
completing their secondary school education. And when young people stay in school, they are less likely to
become involved with drugs and criminal activity.
That’s why United Way invests in youth programs such as the Early Intervention
Program which provides hands-on, intensive social skill programming to students and
teachers in local schools. In addition, short-term counseling and service coordination is
provided to specific families.
We know that … when you need help and assistance finding the right community service, sometimes making
several calls, you struggle and become frustrated on not knowing where to find that help.
That’s why United Way invests in 211, a partnership with the City of Windsor and
County of Essex. 211 is a centralized number that helps you find the help you need
through a streamlined service for information and referral for community, social, health
and government services. One number, one call for assistance.
Additional investments in the Windsor-Essex County community for youth programs:
Collect and distribute winter coats to hundreds of children and families in need throughout Windsor and
Essex County
After school help with homework and an evening Drop-In Centre for youth between the ages of 11 to 15
Promote the physical and mental development of youth in the communities throughout Windsor and
Essex County
25,000 youth receive street and bus safety through Safety Patrol Program
Young girls and boys mentored by adult role models
Finally, we know that … we can’t do it without your help. Building a better community takes all of us
working together and doing our part. United Way brings the whole community together – business,
government, community organizations and people like you. Together, we’re sharing ideas, setting priorities
and taking action towards meaningful change. “Together, we’re changing lives”.
Sincerely,
Sheila Wisdom
Executive Director
United Way Windsor-Essex County

DONATION FORM
United Way/Centraide
Windsor-Essex County
300 Giles Blvd. East, Unit A1
Windsor, ON N9A 4C4
Tel: 519-258-3033
Fax: 519-258-2346
Website: www.weareunited.com
e-mail: united@weareunited.com
Name:
Address: Prov. Postal Code
Phone:
54321
Email:
The United Way Monthly Giving Program is an easy and convenient way to invest in your community,
bringing lasting change, right where you live. Please join us today and help us build Windsor and Essex
County.
Yes! I want to support United Way/Centraide of Windsor-Essex County for 2008.
This year I’d like to invest:
$130 $120 $110 $
Yes! I want to join the Monthly Giving Program with a monthly gift of:
$20 $15 $10 $________/month
I’ve enclosed a cheque marked “VOID”. Please withdraw the above amount each month from my bank
account
OR
Please charge my: Visa MasterCard American Express
Card No._______________________________________________Expiry__________________________
Cardholder’s Name______________________________________ Phone__________________________
Signature______________________________________________________________________________
Email_________________________________________________________________________________
I understand that I may change, pause or cancel this arrangement at any time by notifying United
Way/Centraide Windsor-Essex County in writing.
Signature_________________________________________ Date______________________
Thank you! A tax receipt for your total year’s contribution will be sent in January of the next
calendar year.
United Way is a registered charity. Our charitable business number is 10816 0334 RR0001