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Summer 2015
t h e
r e t i r e d
t e a c h e r s
o f
o n t a r i o
Nurturing
Nature
Donkey whisperer
Learning to grow
Senate highlights
M a g a z i n e
Summer 2015 • Volume 14 • Number 2
renaissance@rto-ero.org  •  www.rto-ero.org
Publisher  The Retired Teachers of Ontario/
Les Enseignantes et Enseignants Retraités de l’Ontario
Editor-in-Chief  Simon Leibovitz
Managing Editor  Kimberly Brathwaite
Assistant Editor  Susannah Maxcy
Health Matters Editor  Lori MacDonald-Blundon
Health Matters Managing Editors  Eliza Ives and
Clara Rodriguez
Production Consultant  Elizabeth Gjerek
Graphic Designer  Chris Simeon
Printing and distribution  Harmony Printing Limited
Translation  Claude Forand
Renaissance is published quarterly for RTO/ERO
members, providing content on topics of interest to
the retired education community.
photo: courtesy of Wendy Parliament.
22
Feature Story:
Donkey whisperer
Learning life-lessons from
unexpected teachers
The views expressed are those of the authors and
do not necessarily reflect the official position of
RTO/ERO.
We accept letters to the editor, article proposals,
photos and artwork, preferably sent to
renaissance@rto-ero.org. We cannot guarantee that
writing and images will be published as received.
Scanned or digital images need to be high resolution
(min. 5”x7” at 300 dpi).
Advertising Associate  Susannah Maxcy
Send queries to advertising@rto-ero.org.
Publication of an advertisement does not
constitute an endorsement by RTO/ERO of
any product or service.
Renaissance est également disponible en français. Si
vous désirez recevoir la version française de ce magazine, veuillez communiquer avec le bureau provincial.
16
26
30
18 Spadina Road, Suite 300
Toronto, Ontario M5R 2S7 CANADA
t: 416-962-9463 | f: 416-962-1061 | tf: 1-800-361-9888
features
Upfront
Departments
26 Learning to grow
1 Editor’s Note
30 The art of nature
1 Letters
16
Saluting Our Senior
Seniors
2 President’s Message
18 ConnectED
RTO/ERO is divided into 48 Districts and has
71,590 members.
3
Executive Director’s Update
34 Health Matters
5 RTO/ERO Foundation
Provincial Executive
46 Members’ Bookshelf
The beautiful and
6
Senate Highlights
48 Classifieds
majestic monarch
8
Senate Reports
butterfly.
11
RTO/ERO’s 2014 Dream
holiday prize winner
49 Reunions
ON the cover
12 Renaissance proposals
wanted
13
The new Pocket Planner
Photo: Lyn Winans, District 18,
Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes
14
2014 Johnson scholarship
recipients
info@rto-ero.org | www.rto-ero.org
June Szeman, President
Norbert Boudreau, Past President
Martin Higgs, First Vice-President
Martha Foster, Second Vice-President
David Kendall, Executive Member
Mark Tinkess, Executive Member
MOVING?
Update your mailing and email address with the
Membership department at membership@rto-ero.org
or by calling 1-800-361-9888.
Editor’s Note | Letters | Upfront
Setting the scene
— Simon Leibovitz, sleibovitz@rto-ero.org
Summer 2015
I read with interest the winter
2014 edition of the Renaissance
magazine from the first to the last
page. Allow me to congratulate
your whole team for the
wonderful work and to commend
all those who work for us, the
Retired Teachers of Ontario.
Thank you to all the volunteers.
With appreciation,
— J eannine Valleau
District 27, Ottawa-Carleton
Illustration: AVA Bitter, shutterstock
“It’s not nice to fool Mother Nature”.
For the majority of our members, this phrase will
evoke memories of a popular TV commercial from
the 1970s. In it, Mother Nature was tricked into
eating Chiffon Margarine, one of the first soft-tubbed
margarines, thinking it was butter. Upon realizing she
had been duped, Mother Nature angrily changed a
serene day to one of nasty weather, retorting the popular line, above.
Contrary to the portrayal in this famous commercial, most think of Mother
Nature as a warm, benevolent figure who has supplied us with magnificent
skies, landscapes, oceans, and vegetation from across this wonderful planet
in which we live. The notion of such a presence and even omnipresence in
nature is prevalent in many cultures, and reflected in writings as diverse as
those of Western tradition, Greek mythology, and Aboriginal legends.
Referred to as Mother Earth, Earth-Mother, Mother Goddess, Mother
Universe, Terra Mater, Mother of Life, and Mother Gaia in many of these
writings, commonly, we have a motherly figure who nurtures nature. Martha
Stewart captured this when she wrote, “I’m very inspired by nature — you
could say Mother Nature. I look at things around me and get all kinds of
inspiration daily.”
Despite the propensity for most of us to revere in the beauty of nature —
trees, flowers, hills and mountains, rivers and streams — there are some who
are may look negatively upon Mother Nature when thinking of the numerous
global tragedies such as tsunamis, earthquakes and anomalies such as the
now infamous polar vortex that has made it miserably cold over the past two
winters for the majority of our members living in Ontario.
Thinking back to the famous commercial
that started in 1971, some may think
that perhaps Mother Nature may be
fooling; I disagree. Though I may
not be the outdoors type, as I do
not enjoy walking in the woods,
camping, skiing, and water
activities, I still admire and
enjoy the beauty around us
and appreciate all that
Mother Nature has provided.
Letters
Just enjoyed reading the spring
2015 Renaissance. I was impressed
by the folks who were able to pull
records about their family history.
Recently while at the
Scarborough Civic Centre, I
listened to Harry van Bommel
who is initiating a celebration of
Canada’s 150th birthday via his
Canada 150 Project for 2017.
He made a compelling case
that much of our past history
has been recorded by documents
such as collected diaries and
letters. Our current culture is
ephemeral whereby folks rarely
like to write letters or use diaries.
Rather, they communicate via
the telephone, text and email.
Harry encourages Canadians to
write their stories for a legacy for
their own families and possibly to
share with the Archives Canada.
For more information visit
www.canada150.ca.
I just started my research and
discovered some intrigue about
my parents who never referred to
their past. They met in England
Continued on page 13
1
Upfront | President’s Message
Senate: RTO/ERO’s big event
Learn what all the fuss really is about Senate.
b y J u n e S z e m a n , D i s t r i c t 4 0 , B r a n t | p re s i d e n t @ r t o - e ro . o rg
T
he 88th Senate of RTO/ERO
took place at the Eaton
Marriott on Bay Street in
Toronto from May 11th to 14th.
Actually, you could say that
activities started the week before as
most of the Districts attended PreSenate meetings during that time.
May 11th, although not witnessed
by the Senators, is a very busy day of
preparation.
The Provincial Executive (PE)
holds its May meeting as well as
a last run through of all Senate
activities. The Constitution Committee
meets separately and with the PE to
anticipate any situations that may
arise and plan for these. Committee
Chairs also meet during the day and
two representatives meet with the
PE to note areas of concern or ideas
that they feel the PE should consider.
Then, from 7 – 9 pm there is a wine
and cheese sponsored by Johnson
Inc. for all attendees, staff, Committee
Chairs and the Provincial Executive.
Harmony Printing, Johnson Inc.,
Manulife Financial, Merit Travel and
Souvenir Canada provide prizes to abet
the festivities of the evening. The last
prize drawn is a $1,000 travel voucher
from Merit Travel. I was speaking very
recently with one of the former lucky
recipients of this voucher and she used
it on a trip to Venice.
May 12th starts for the PE at 7 a.m.
with a breakfast meeting to consider
the day’s agenda. PE attend Senate
in their respective positions but are
2
not responsible for the order of the
meeting. The very able Speakers and
Constitution Committee take over.
A highlight of Senate is always the
banquet. Guests from affiliates and
partners are invited to the Spring
Senate and entertainment is provided.
We were able to honour our retiring
Executive Director, Harold Brathwaite
at this occasion, as well.
This year there was ample opportunity for members to participate in
discussion on a number of issues.
The Committee Chairs were able to
give full reports and accept questions.
Tai Hu addressed the group about
the initiative of the CMA called
Choosing Wisely which is intended
to cut down on unnecessary medical
testing by consultation between
patient and doctor.
On a very happy note we
welcomed Jim Grieve as our newly
appointed Executive Director. Jim
will work with Harold beginning
June 15th and will be ready to step in
on August 1st. We look forward to
a fruitful relationship with Jim and
I am confident it will be a seamless
transition. Much appreciation is
extended to Harold for his guidance
over the past years.
Attending Senate as a Senator and/or
an Observer is a unique experience. It
is even more special to participate as
a member of the executive and then
as President. I feel very proud of our
last Senate. From my point of view
there appeared to be much measured
discussion, good participation and
clear reports. Thanks to all the
Senators and Observers who attended
and participated to bring forward the
opinions of their Districts.
One of the best parts of my job as
your President is meeting with you,
the volunteers from across Ontario and
parts of British Columbia who work so
hard to keep RTO/ERO functioning.
I thoroughly enjoy visiting with
you at Senate and when I come to
your Districts. The many and varied
activities that you conduct for your
members are truly overwhelming.
On your behalf, Martin Higgs,
First Vice-President, and I attended
the annual meeting of The Canadian
Association of Retired Teachers
(ACER/CART) held in Ottawa. It
gives us an opportunity to see how
the retired teacher organizations from
across Canada function. It also gives
us the chance to hear about pensions
and other benefits. In comparison,
we do very well.
The PE meets in June and then not
again until the end of August. I am
looking forward to this short hiatus.
It will provide me an opportunity for
my family’s yearly visit to Vermont
in July. This is family time in the
mountains. It gives me time to
re-create myself. I will also use the
time to get my house back in order
and entertain family and friends.
I hope that you will have the time
to connect or reconnect with those
who mean the most to you. Enjoy the
“lazy, crazy days of summer” to the
fullest.
Renaissance
Executive Director Update | Upfront
The way forward for RTO/ERO
O n e p e r s o n ’s p e r s p e c t i v e
b y H a r o l d B r a t h w a i t e | h b r a t h w a i t e @ r t o - e r o . o rg
E
leven years ago, about this time
of year, I retired for the second
time, and shortly thereafter,
began working at RTO/ERO. Now I am
about to take a third try at retirement.
So, you may wonder, why the audacity
of the title of this last column. Let me
be clear, this is no prescription for
the future of our organization. That
would be a worthless exercise and
disrespectful to our future leaders.
This column is nothing more than a
modest attempt to highlight some of
the inevitable changes and challenges
that lie before us; moreover, it is an
invitation to more members to become
actively involved, and to continue
to develop a vibrant organization
that must be prepared for a rapidly
changing environment.
Based on three major surveys of
our members over the last 10 years,
there is every reason to believe that
healthcare and pension security will
continue to be the primary concerns
of our membership and of older
adults in Canada. However, the focus
on healthcare will shift increasingly
to prevention and to quality of life in
home and community settings.
The massive amount of data being
collected about all of us will lead
to more individualized care and
citizens taking more responsibility
for their health through changes
in lifestyles and behaviour. The
services that RTO/ERO provides to
its members and the role of Districts
in contributing to the social and
Summer 2015
The services that RTO/ERO provides to
its members and the role of Districts in
contributing to the social and emotional
engagement of members and of their local
communities will be vital.
emotional engagement of members
and of their local communities will
be vital. At the very point in time
when technology allows us to be
more independent, we will need to
find ways to connect more directly
with friends and family members for
physical, intellectual, cognitive, and
sensory stimulation.
The challenges to RTO/ERO will
be generated by both internal and
external factors. RTO/ERO was
originally founded through the
intervention of OTF/FEO and we
will always be supportive of publiclyfunded education and of teachers’
rights under the collective bargaining
process. However, the purposes and
goals of our organization are not the
same as those of the teacher affiliates,
and the priorities of those retired from
education should not be subordinated
to those still in the workplace.
Similarly, the priorities of various
seniors’ organizations are not always
the same as those of RTO/ERO.
There will be an inevitable tug-of-war
between members who want us to
join with different groups, and others
who believe we should be selective
about the issues we support and be the
sole spokesperson for our members. I
think, to quote the late Errol Barrow, a
former Prime Minster of Barbados, that
“we should seek to be friends of all,
and satellites of none.”
As an organization, RTO/ERO will
continue to grow, though not at the
same rate because of the size of our
membership. Contrary to the opinion
of some naysayers, we still have the
best overall health plans for retirees,
and we are more than a purveyor of
health plans to our members.
What will change will be some
aspects of the organizational structure
of RTO/ERO to meet the requirements
of new not-for-profit legislation that
will most likely be promulgated
in 2016. This will also be an
opportunity to examine those aspects
of our current structure that are
anachronistic and hark back to affiliate
structures. The integration of new
technology should enhance efficiency,
effectiveness and innovation.
Continued on next page
3
I would be remiss if I did not address
a topic that will arise from time-to-time
and which was included in a report
to the May 2015 Senate — that of the
role and responsibilities of the Senate
and of the Provincial Executive.
Although their respective roles and
responsibilities are delineated in the
RTO/ERO Constitution and By-Laws,
three different legal counsel (Bob
Keel, Ron Pink and George Cottrelle),
and more recently, Don McCreesh, an
expert on corporate governance, have
emphasized that members of the
Provincial Executive and the senior
staff have fiduciary responsibilities
and legal liabilities with respect to
carrying out RTO/ERO business that
do not apply to members of Senate.
Members of the PE and senior staff
cannot authorize, turn a blind eye to or
allow actions to occur that contravene
the law. In such cases they are personally
liable and are not protected by Directors’
and Officers’ Liability Insurance. The
Provincial Executive is also responsible
for risk-assessment covering all aspects
of RTO/ERO business operations.
Therefore, we should not attribute to
malice bureaucratic provisions intended
to protect the organization and its
members.
In the last few years we have
become more inclusive, embracing
all those who have worked in the
field of education. The next stage in
RTO/ERO’s development, and it will
not be without its challenges, is to
accord all members the same rights
and privileges of full membership —
the only reasonable exception being
spouses of deceased members who
want to retain their health plans.
In short, we are all retirees with
similar needs. Moreover, our broader
membership will/should enhance
the opportunity for more willing
participants in District leadership.
4
Our capacity for impact in Ontario
and Canada will in large measure
derive from the collective action of
our membership — serving and
socializing within our Districts and
local communities, advocating in the
political arena for those issues we have
identified, engaging in research with
Ontario universities, and contributing
to the RTO/ERO Foundation’s efforts
to improve the quality of life of older
adults by funding programs and
initiatives that increase the number of
professionals qualified in the fields of
geriatrics and gerontology.
I have been fortunate to have had
the opportunity to serve as Executive
Director and to have worked with
different Provincial Executives,
committees and staff that have all
contributed to raising the profile of
the organization and enhancing the
services to our members. I wish to
express my appreciation to all these
personnel as well as to the staff of
Johnson Inc. who continue to look
Photo: George Fowlie, District 40, Brant.
Upfront | Executive Director Update
for new ways to serve our members
faster and better. At the Provincial
Office, a modest staff of 21 persons
work daily and diligently to address
the needs of our members and the
priorities of the organization. I can
proudly say that never have so many
owed so much to so few. Merci.
2015 Membership Survey
F
or the past several years, and every three years, RTO/ERO surveys a
random and representative sample of our membership. Surveys are
sent to members who represent the various demographics of our
organization — different-sized Districts, English and French-speaking,
male and female, etc. Surveys are sent both electronically and upon
request, by hard copy.
Within the membership survey, there are questions related to areas
communications, advocacy, travel, volunteering and about the types of
programs and services RTO/ERO currently provides and should in the
future. For members who receive the survey who are also participants
in RTO/ERO’s group benefits program, there is also a set of questions
regarding the insurance plans.
The responses from members help the Provincial Executive and the
Provincial Office staff in their strategic and long-term planning.
If you do receive such a survey, we would appreciate you filling it
promptly and returning it.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Renaissance
RTO/ERO Foundation | Upfront
Foundation news
b y Yo l a n d a B r o n s t e i n , D i r e c t o r o f A d v a n c e m e n t a n d F u n d r a i s i n g ,
R T O / E R O F o u n d a t i o n | y b ro n s t e i n @ r t o - e ro . o rg
2015 granting — Big news
T
he 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 is an extension of the initial granting strategy
of working with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term
Care’s recognized Medical Schools in Ontario. This plan
also supports member and donor interests as indicated
with 88% approval for the priority of supporting
geriatrics/gerontology research and training at postsecondary institutions across the province (received
through the Fall 2014 Foundation survey).
We will be pursuing avenues to meet deans and their
team leads at the following medical schools, to have an
open dialogue about potential partnerships and granting
impact related to the Foundation’s mission:
• McMaster University — Hamilton
• Northern Ontario School of Medicine — Sudbury/
Thunder Bay
• Queen’s University — Kingston
• University of Ottawa — Ottawa
• Western University — London
Note: University of Toronto will be omitted from this
granting cycle.
The expected timeline for grant decisions will be fall
2015, with successful grant recipients announced at the
Fall Senate following a thorough review and selection
process by the Foundation Board.
Impact across Ontario
To put this in perspective, before the end of 2015 (and
after only five short years of existence), the RTO/ERO
Foundation — its donors and volunteers together with all
RTO/ERO members — will have a presence across Ontario.
Collectively, we will be elevating the priority for geriatrics
and gerontology research and training and putting in
place a base from which to exponentially grow expertise
and knowledge in these areas.
Impact across Canada
We know that knowledge is shared. It has a ripple effect
no matter the circumstance. With each newly trained
geriatrician, and each new gerontology-related research
discovery — learnings will be shared within care teams,
among professional societies and across provinces.
We have an urgent and lofty vision — and we are
steadily moving forward to achieve it.
Chair, Geriatric Medicine
On that note, we eagerly monitor the selection process
for the RTO/ERO Chair in Geriatric Medicine at the
University of Toronto. There have been five applicants —
two from within the University of Toronto, one from
Canada and two international. Given the timelines required
for selection, and possible relocation of the successful
candidate, we anticipate an announcement this fall.
How To Donate:
Online:
www.rto-ero.org/ways-give-0
Phone:
Yolanda (Office hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 8:30-4:30)
416-962-9463 ext. 245 or 1-800-361-9888
Email:
ybronstein@rto-ero.org
Mail:
Cheques payable to: RTO/ERO Foundation
300-18 Spadina Road, Toronto ON M5R 2S7
Seeking to improve the quality of life of seniors across Canada.
Summer 2015
5
Photo: Susannah Maxcy
Upfront |
Senate highlights
On Tuesday, May 12, Senate
approved the recommendation of the
Provincial Executive to appoint Jim
Grieve as RTO/ERO’s new Executive
Director, effective August 1, 2015.
Current Executive Director Harold
Brathwaite retires at the end of July
after 11 years in the position.
Following the appointment
President June Szeman commented,
“RTO/ERO is indeed pleased to
have a person with Jim Grieve’s
experiences and qualifications accept
the position of Executive Director of
this organization. He will succeed a
strong leader in Harold Brathwaite
but Jim’s many positive attributes will
allow for a seamless transition.”
Jim Grieve brings a wealth of
experience within the education
sector to his new position with
RTO/ERO. Appointed in November,
2009 as Assistant Deputy Minister
of the Early Learning Division for
the Ontario Ministry of Education,
Jim is responsible for the provincial
implementation of full-day
kindergarten for four and five year
olds, leading the work of creating a
seamless early learning experience
for children in Ontario from birth
onward.
Following an exemplary career as
a teacher, school administrator and
superintendent in the North York
6
Jim Grieve, newly
appointed Executive
Director and Harold
Brathwaite, retiring
Executive Director after
Jim’s introduction and
address at Senate.
Board of Education, Jim served as
Director of Education in OttawaCarleton for four years before moving
to the Director of Education role for
seven years with the Peel District
School Board, Canada’s second largest
school board. He holds a Master’s
Degree from OISE/University of
Toronto, as well as undergraduate
degrees from York University and
Victoria College of the University of
Toronto.
Known as a highly visible and
approachable leader, Jim was selected
as Communicator of the Year by
the International Association of
Business Communicators in 2013.
Last year, he was honoured to receive
the Ministry of Education Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Looking forward to his new
role, Jim Grieve commented,
“Throughout my career as a proud
teacher and educational leader I
have worked with many thousands
of dedicated and talented teachers
and educational professionals to
help children learn, grow and feel
valued. I am delighted to be given
this remarkable opportunity to work
with members and staff to lead, to
be a strong advocate and a visible
regional presence for my membership
colleagues in RTO/ERO.”
Renaissance
New Executive Director appointed
Senate Highlights | Upfront
Dianne and Raymond Colbourne and Paulette Gibbens,
District 44, Région du ciel bleu.
Annual charitable donation
A slight, but important,
revision was made to the
Associate Membership
category that allows
surviving spouses of
members to join RTO/ERO
and ostensibly continue
participation in the Group
Benefits Program. This
category now recognizes
that dependents of members
may also join and receive
benefits, as defined under
the Group Benefits Program.
Choosing Wisely Canada
Senate received an excellent
presentation from Tai Huynh,
Campaign Manager of Choosing
Wisely Canada (CWC),
www.choosingwiselycanada.org.
Choosing Wisely Canada is a
campaign to help physicians and
patients engage in conversations
about unnecessary tests, treatments
and procedures, and to help
physicians and patients make smart
and effective choices to ensure highquality care. The organization works
with and represents physicians
across Canada, patients, the media,
and medical stakeholder groups
to address the overuse of medical
procedures. The campaign aims to
engage members of the public to
have thoughtful conversations about
District 17, Simcoe Senate participants proudly standing
in front of their STO dislplay. l-r Paul Healy, Margaret
Holyroyd, Lety Dudgeon, Glenn Conduit and Gail King.
Summer 2015
Revision to
membership category
Each year RTO/ERO, once approved by Senate,
donates $10,000 to a charitable organization, as
suggested by Districts. In 2015, the Nipissing
Serenity Hospice/Maison Sérénité du Nipissing
is the recipient. The donation will help with the
construction of a new hospice for the residents of
Nipissing Region. The area is currently one of the
only major Northern Ontario communities without
such a facility.
whether medical procedures are
necessary.
To date, based on research
conducted by CWC, there are over
100 physician recommendations
that have been made across 20
medical specialties regarding the use/
overuse of medical testing, as well
as 25 patient education pamphlets
released. Tai stated, “Based on studies
in both Ontario and Alberta, about
common medical procedures ordered
by physicians, approximately 30% of
these tests are not necessary.”
Tai suggested that when patients
are confronted with the possibility of
medical procedures, they should ask
these four questions:
• Do I really need this test, treatment
or procedure?
• What are downsides?
• Are there simpler, safer options?
• What happens if I do nothing?
7
Upfront | Senate Reports
Audit Committee
by Jacqueline Aird, Chair
The principal function of the Audit Committee is to oversee the
organization’s financial reporting process and internal control
structure and report its findings to Senate. The Committee met
twice since the last Senate, in November and in April.
Our committee, with the auditors and senior management,
reviewed the draft consolidated financial statements for 2014, the auditor’s
report to the Audit Committee, the management representation letter and the
internal control letter.
In the auditor’s opinion, “the consolidated financial statements present
fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of The Retired
Teachers of Ontario/les enseignantes et enseignants retraités de l’Ontario
(RTO/ERO) as at December 31, 2014, and its consolidated operations and
cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with
Communications Committee
by Laurie Fountain, Chair
The role of the Communications Committee is to assist those in
our Districts who are responsible for communication with our
members by supporting District Webmasters, Newsletter Editors
and District Communications Chairs through the provision of
workshops, using remote interactive support, and by providing
print and electronic resources.
Through professional development workshops, our committee members
continue to become familiar with emerging methods of communication as well
as enhancing our understanding of traditional means of mass communication.
In the past several months, the committee has developed and shared a
Canada Post Guide to provide a less expensive method of circulating printed
District Newsletters to members. We continue to support and provide training
on the use of electronic newsletters as well.
Constitution Committee
by Norbert Boudreau, Chair
The Constitution Committee reports to and through the Provincial
Executive. Its members also serve as Senate Speakers and on the
Senate Resolutions Committee.
The committee receives proposals for changes in the
Constitution, Bylaws and Policies from the Senate, Provincial
Executive, Districts, Standing, and Executive Committees. As well, the committee
prepares resolutions which may affect the Constitution, Bylaws and Policies.
Each year the Model Constitution for Districts is updated. A number of
District Constitutions are reviewed on a five-year cycle.
The committee met in February and April and accomplished the following:
reviewed resolutions that were passed at, and the summary of evaluation from
the Annual 2014 Senate; studied matters coming to the Spring 2015 Senate
and advised the Provincial Executive as appropriate; in collaboration with the
Provincial Executive, studied the 2015 Spring Senate agenda and content in
order to prepare effectively; and revised the Model District Constitution. This
document is dated February 2015 and is available on the RTO/ERO website. All
previous versions should be destroyed.
8
Health Services
and Insurance
Committee
by Gayle Manley, Chair
The Health Services
and Insurance
Committee will provide a most
cost effective, high quality and
competitive group health insurance
plan that meets the needs of the
majority of RTO/ERO’s membership.
Since Fall Senate, RTO/ERO Group
Benefits Program participants received
notification about plan changes for
2015. The Semi-Private Hospital and
Convalescent Care Plan premium
rates were maintained and the Dental
Plan with coverage for the 2015 fee
guide increased rates slightly.
The Extended Health Care (EHC)
Plan had a significant number of
changes to the plan, including travel
coverage extended to 93 days, with a
minor change in rates, approximately
$5 per month. The change to generic
drugs in our EHC plan will assist our
plan participants to have more room
in their $3,100 drug maximum and
it will be an asset to the financial
stability of the plan. It is important
to note that the majority of members
were already using generic drugs and
those who have a medical restriction
will still remain covered for brand
medications.
Participation in our Plans is
growing at a steady pace. In fact,
our growth trend has been stable for
the last five years and for 2014 was
just over 5%. The RTO/ERO Group
Benefits Program continues to grow
as a percentage of our members and
as a percentage of OTPP retirees
with a medical deduction. To date,
approximately 81% of those with an
OTPP deduction participate in our
Plans. There are now over 89,000
Renaissance
Senate Reports | Upfront
Pension and Retirement Concerns Committee
by David Cornwall, Chair
The Pension and Retirement Concerns Committee (PRC) has begun
a new three-year cycle of reviewing the 70 Fact Sheets for accuracy,
relevance and updating. Twenty-nine sheets are being addressed
this year. In some instances the entire document was completely rewritten while
others received only minor adjustments. A need for two new sheets was identified
by RTO/ERO members and the necessary research has begun.
A new framework for providing Districts with answers to pension and
retirement concerns is being developed. The working title is “Staging Your
Aging – a centre for workshops and resources”. This is a long-term project
that will involve the better use of computer technology and various media.
The committee is hosting a workshop for the District PRC representatives in
September. The major focus will be on pension plans in general and OMERS and
OTPP specifically. The previously mentioned framework Continued on page 42
Political Advocacy Committee
by Dale Burley, Chair
The Political Advocacy Committee (PAC) has held two meetings
since the fall Senate, focusing on election preparedness and
the ongoing monitoring of several issues reported previously
to Senate, including GMO discussions. Supporting RTO/ERO’s
direction of keeping our membership healthy by making
informed choices led us to a rich source of information, now available
at www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/seniorsguide. Information on Elder Abuse,
valuable to all seniors, which PAC continues to monitor, can be found at
www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/resources and at www.seniors.gov.on.ca/fr/resources.
Also, as a result of collaboration with ACER-CART’s own Political Advocacy
Committee, we are now aware of Choosing Wisely Canada, a campaign to help
physicians and patients engage in conversations about unnecessary tests, treatments
and procedures. With a plethora of resources, including 61 physician-recommended
fact sheets on a variety of topics, the organization’s website is an excellent resource
for our members: www.choosingwiselycanada.org.
Project – Service to Others Scholarship Committee
by Maureen Capotosto, Chair
The Project – Service to Others Committee met in April to review
and decide on the 27 scholarship applications received for 2015.
Committee members reviewed individually the applications and,
using a marking scheme, selected the ones they felt best met the
criteria and were the most deserving to receive a scholarship. They were most
impressed with the background and experiences the candidates displayed. This
year the committee granted 25 scholarships.
Over the past few years the committee has taken steps to increase the number
of scholarship applications. Last year was a transition year as we changed the time
of year that we reviewed applications. We received 14 in 2014 and 27 in 2015.
We received applications from students embarking on the final year of their college
or university programs in a wide variety of fields of study including: education,
architecture, paramedic, medicine and several others.
Summer 2015
Member Services
Committee
by Joanne Weeks, Chair
The Member Services
Committee focuses on
the areas of goodwill,
recruitment, Retirement Planning
Workshops (RPWs) and travel. One
of the Provincial Executive’s priorities
is to market RTO/ERO. The resources
provided by the Provincial Office staff
and by our committee members assist
with this promotion. Committee
members continue to attend the
Annual General Meetings (AGMs)
of the teaching affiliates and related
educational organizations.
The number of District-sponsored
RPWs continues to grow. Districts are
seeing the positive results of having a
yearly RPW and are doing a great job
of getting our message out to schools
and encouraging participation. Thirtysix workshops were held in 2014.
Five more Districts are planning to
have a local workshop in 2015, to
bring the total to 41.
Our Provincial Recruitment
Workshop last fall, with the theme
“It’s Worth Getting to Know Us”, was
so very successful due in part to the
enthusiasm shown by Districts for the
materials and resources provided to
them. We stressed how very important
personal contact is in attracting new
members to our organization. We are
actively recruiting prospective Full
members at local schools and board
offices but also with staff at private
schools, universities and colleges and
members of the educational support
staff of local school boards. These
are our potential Associate members.
A new category of Full member
includes staff at First Nations schools.
Showing someone that you care is
the greatest gift you can give. Being
9
Upfront |
The new Merit Travel website for RTO/ERO members
b y M e r i t Tr a v e l
T
oday’s travel plans almost always start online.
The internet is so rich with endless possibilities
that reigning it all in can be challenging. That’s
what makes the new RTO/ERO travel website, by Merit
Travel, both a reliable tool and a reprieve from all of
the information you’ll find scouring thousands of travel
websites. This is the home of content and travel options
curated by travel experts. Not just another travel site,
it’s a tool catered to the needs of The Retired Teachers
of Ontario. The new website has improved search
functionality, more travel tools, a gallery for member
photos and stories, and District support options.
Search made easy
Finding your perfect vacation is easy. Your search begins
with three quick options on the homepage, including:
last minute deals, all-inclusive vacations, and cruise
finder. Everything you have come to expect are part of
your search: resort photos, ratings and prices. If in your
search, however, you find you want something more, a
list of hosted tours, cruises and Merit Longstays Vacations
are still easy to find on the site.
Travel tools
When you’ve narrowed down your next vacation of
choice, the travel tools section should be the next section
you navigate to. Read up on the passport and visa
requirements of your destination, check out the weather
forecast, and familiarize yourself with the subway map
before you get there. All of these tools, and more, are in
10
one place! Of note, Merit Travel’s exclusive Pocket Travel
Consultant app is a free download and is just as the name
states: your very own portable, travel consultant. Within
it, you’ll be able to download destination guides so you
won’t have to rely on WiFi when you’re away. Each
destination guide recommends the best things to see, do,
and places to eat.
Your travel website
The new site doesn’t end at finalizing your trip. Often, the
best part about coming home after a vacation is sharing
your memories with family and friends. That’s why a
new Member Stories and Gallery has a permanent place
on the homepage of the new website. Read about other
members’ vacation experiences and peruse photos. It can
even serve as a research tool. If you’re not sure where
you want to go, why not consult the Member Stories
and Gallery section for inspiration and recommendations
from other members who have been there? If this
feature doesn’t make you feel like this is your very own
customized travel website, then maybe the District
Support feature will. Outlined within this area, are ways
that Merit Travel is eager to support your District.
The new Merit Travel website for RTO/ERO was
designed to make travel easy and inspiring. But it’s not
just a website. At the heart of it are the very experts who
have travelled the globe to put together the very best
vacation experiences. The real benefit is having a Merit
Travel Consultant just a phone call away!
www.rtotravel.ca or www.erovoyage.ca.
Renaissance
| Upfront
Announcing RTO/ERO’s 2014
Dream holiday prize winner:
Sandra Candy
O
n Saturday, April 11, in London, in front of the
largest number of potential retirees ever gathered
at an RTO/ERO Retirement Planning Workshop,
new RTO/ERO member Sandra Candy District 8, London,
Middlesex was awarded her special prize for being randomly
selected as RTO/ERO’s 2014 Dream holiday prize winner.
Each year RTO/ERO, in conjunction with Merit Travel,
sponsors a contest whereby one member who joins in the
previous calendar year wins a trip voucher courtesy of
Merit. At the workshop, at which 225 attended, Sandra
was presented with her voucher by Laura Wilder, Branch
Manager of Merit’s London office.
Sandra (l) being
presented with the travel
voucher from Laura (r).
Summer 2015
Sandra was ecstatic to be chosen, exclaiming, “What
are the chances of having my name drawn from all of
those new members who joined RTO/ERO in 2014!
Winning this generous $2,500 voucher, courtesy of Merit
Travel, is such an unexpected and wonderful prize.”
Sandra taught for 41 years for the London Board of
Education, which became part of the Thames Valley
District School Board during amalgamation. She specialized
in Primary Education and Language Development, and in
retirement, continues to be involved with a school Breakfast
Club Program, and teaches writing skills on a volunteer basis.
Commenting on her status as a new member of
RTO/ERO, Sandra stated, “I feel most fortunate as a
retired teacher that we have in this province such a
strong and vibrant organization as RTO/ERO, offering
outstanding insurance plans, along with a multitude of
locally organized activities, events and support systems to
keep members connected and active in retirement.”
The travel vouchers
and travel-friendly
RTO/ERO goodies that
Sandra received.
11
Upfront |
With Renaissance themed issues, our aim is to tackle topics of interest to you. What issues and
trends are important to you? What topics and themes do you want to see featured in Renaissance?
Let us know what themes we should be focusing on in future issues of your magazine.
Request our new
Contributors’ Guidelines at
renaissance@rto-ero.org.
WINTER 2015
SPRING 2016
Creative minds
Sporty living
According to Albert Einstein, “The true sign of
intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination.”
How are you inspired by your imagination or
creativity? Do you spend your days thinking about
the next poem or novel that you are going to write
or are you busy working on another masterpiece
on your canvas? Maybe your creative juices are
stimulated by music, theatre, sculpting or drawing.
We want to hear about how your creative mind
works and see what you have created.
Are you a serious athlete or do you participate in sports
just for the fun of it? Are you a sports fanatic, who
enjoys the camaraderie of playing sports such as pickle
ball, baseball and golf or are you more interested in
running, cycling, swimming, curling or skiing? Have you
taken up a new sport in retirement? Perhaps you are a
longtime coach who loves the thrill of competition and
challenging yourself as well as others. We want to know
how participating in sports impacts you mentally and
physically. Tell us about the social connections you’ve
made through your sporty passion(s) and how you are
sharing it with your friends and family.
Perspectives to consider: How does your
creativity affect your life? Why is using your
imagination and being creative important to you?
Perspectives to consider: Why is being involved in
sports important to you? What inspires you to participate
in sports? What has being involved with sports
taught you about yourself?
Deadline: August 17, 2015.
Deadline: October 26, 2015.
Do you know a special member of RTO/ERO who is over 80 years old, who enjoyed a great career in education
and lives life to its fullest? Have you experienced special moments during your career that you would like to share
with others? If, you’ve answered YES to either or both of these questions send a 300 word outline describing
what you would like to share to renaissance@rto-ero.org.
We are looking for photos of our members
engaged in daily retirement activities such as reading,
walking, jogging, biking, vacationing, surfing the web,
interacting with each other, etc.
Photos are for use in Renaissance, Liaison (the
To contribute or to read our complete Contributors’ Guidelines,
Provincial newsletter), promotional materials
email renaissance@rto-ero.org or call 1-800-361-9888 ext. 224.
and on the website. All photo submissions
Please Note: Submissions are reviewed by the editorial team before each issue.
must be at least 5" x 7" in size at 300
Selected members will be contacted either to write a piece or to be interviewed to be
pixels per inch resolution (minimum
featured in Renaissance. We cannot guarantee that writing and images will be published
1.2 MB file size).
as received. We will endeavour to include as many member viewpoints as we can.
•
•
•
•
You must be a member of RTO/ERO
Send us a BRIEF outline (300 words maximum)
Send us any related artwork or photography
Include your name, membership number and District
12
Renaissance
| Upfront
Your new Pocket Planner is here …
I
2016
Pocket Planner
agenda de Poche
ncluded with this issue of Renaissance, as it always
is with our summer issue, is your new 2016 Pocket
Planner. As you read this, if you have not yet seen
your copy, it is with the other inserts in the large
envelope in which this issue of Renaissance was
delivered. If you subscribe to e-Renaissance, your
Pocket Planner is being mailed separately.
Each member receives the annual Pocket Planner
as a benefit of membership, as the provincial budget
includes funds to provide one calendar per member. If
members wish to purchase additional copies for family
and/or friends, or lose their copy, additional Pocket
Planners may be purchased at $3.00 from Souvenir
Canada, 1-800-259-9641 or scanada@on.aibn.com. Please
note: Pocket Planners are NOT available through
the Provincial Office.
AGENDA DE POCHE
2016
POCKET PLANNER
The covers
Close to 90 RTO/ERO members responded to our call-out for submissions, to be the featured artist on the cover, in comparison
to 50 last year. We would like to thank all of you for taking the time to submit them. This year we selected two members to
adorn the cover with their artwork: Peter Bering, District 9, Huron, Perth (above left) and Gabby Tutak, District 16, Toronto
(above right). Check inside your Pocket Planner to see if you have Peter’s or Gail’s artwork on your cover.
Letters... Continued from page 1
during the Second World War
when dad was in the Canadian
army, and my mother worked
in the English Women’s Land
Army. They married February 17,
1945 and immigrated to Canada
after the war. At 16, my mother
accidentally discovered that her
mother had died several months
after giving birth and that the
aloof woman whom she believed
as her birth mother was in fact
her step-mother. Almost 30, my
father discovered that his parents
adopted him in Sunderland,
England. Secrets were obviously
prolific in our heritage!
—W
endy Hooker, District 24,
Scarborough and East York
Summer 2015
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experts will help you maximize any available funding
so you pay the least amount out of your own pocket.
Plus, RTO members save 10% at Hear More Canada!
Did you know that you can transfer your existing
service plans, warranties and hearing health records
to Hear More at no charge or hassle to you?
We honour all existing service plans and warranties AND
give you all the benefits Hear More offers. Choose the
care you want and deserve. Visit us for details.
Call 1.855.558.4327 today to book
a FREE hearing test. Visit www.hearmore.ca
to find a location near you!
13
Upfront |
2014 Johnson scholarship recipients
RTO/ERO member relatives currently in school receive a helping hand.
We are extremely proud to announce that the children/grandchildren of a number of our members have been named
recipients of the 2014 Johnson Scholarship. Congratulations to:
Teagan van der Mark
Jenna Smallegange
Alexander Court
(Grandchild of Leny van der
Mark, District 15, Halton),
is enrolled in University of
Western Ontario in B.Sc.
Nursing. She volunteered at a
mission in Haiti. She wants to
be a critical care nurse.
(Grandchild of Denise Burridge,
District 48, Leeds and Grenville)
is enrolled in Queen’s University
in the Concurrent Education
Program. She volunteers at
Kingston General Hospital and
wants to become a primary
school teacher.
(Child of Judy and George Court,
District 34, York Region) is
enrolled in University of Toronto
in Economics, Financial Accounting and Psychology. He wants to
pursue a career in marketing. He
is also a Council Youth Commissioner for Scouts Canada.
The talented recipients will each receive a $1,000 bursary to use towards tuition, textbooks and other postsecondary expenses while attending university this year.
Through the program, Johnson Inc. — our group benefit plan administrator and preferred provider of home and
auto insurance — awarded 50 scholarships worth $1,000 each to children or grandchildren of Johnson affinity group
members and other customers across the country. To be eligible for the program, students had to graduate high school
in 2014 and attend post-secondary the following fall.
For many Canadian students, the jump from high school to post-secondary education signals a thrilling transition
into adulthood. Along with the excitement and independence, however, come new responsibilities like paying for
tuition, textbooks and basic daily essentials. To help Canadian students achieve their goals, Johnson has awarded
1,400 scholarships valued at more than $1 million since 1998.
Applications shall be submitted on the completion of the applicant’s graduating year of high school. Completed
application forms must be submitted by August 31, 2015 and must include an official high school transcript of the final
year marks. If you require further information about Johnson’s scholarship program, please call toll-free 1-866-544-2673, email
scholarshipfund@johnson.ca, or visit www1.johnson.ca/scholarship.
14
Renaissance
| Upfront
SIGN UP FOR e-Renaissance
Get your copy of Renaissance electronically and view the issue
from the comfort of your computer or mobile devices.
NEW! You are now able to enjoy e-Renaissance on your e-readers
(such as Barnes & Noble Nook, and Kobo, etc.) and your Apple
and Android mobile devices.
Scan QR Code
to view the
current issue
You will also be able to read e-Renaissance via an EPUB format,
from anywhere.
Send your name, District number, District name,
membership number and current email address to
e-Renaissance@rto-ero.org and register to start
receiving e-Renaissance.
To receive the upcoming fall issue, submit your email
by August 31, 2015.
"Great idea to be able to download on my Kobo. It’s a major improvement in convenience!"
Linda Taberner, District 28, Region of Durham
Summer 2015
15
Departments | Saluting Our Senior Seniors
A born leader
Always focused on family and community responsibility.
b y Te d W h i t e l a n d , D i s t r i c t 2 0 , F ro n t e n a c , L e n n o x & A d d i n g t o n
T
The early years
Irwin was the oldest of three children
born to Elmer and Mabel (née Kilfoyle)
Ruttle. Raised and educated in Ottawa,
he received his teaching credentials
from Ottawa Normal School (1934-35)
as it was always his yearning to work
with children. As teaching jobs were
difficult to find, Irwin scoured the back
roads of Renfrew and Lanark counties
in his Model A Ford to secure his first
position in education. While travelling
down an old dirt road the last weekend
in August, he came across two farmers,
one the chair of the local school board
and Irwin was employed on the spot to
teach five students in his new school,
S.S. #6 Darling Township, Lanark
County (west of Almonte). His salary, a
princely $500 per year.
Serving Canada
Three years later, Irwin moved to
Eganville as Principal and then spent
the Second World War as a Lieutenantinstructor in the Royal Canadian Navy.
He administered tests to assess the
English and math skills of new recruits,
teaching remedial classes for those two
subjects and anything else the Navy
needed the recruits to know before
16
Irwin in his naval uniform in 1943.
The green stripe, between the gold lieutenant
stripes, identifies him as a school master.
being assigned for specialized training.
Irwin was assigned at various times
to land-based training centres: HMCS
Carleton; HMCS Cataraqui; HMCS
York; HMCS Stadacona; and HMCS
Hochelaga. He finished his naval service
as visual aids training officer Atlantic
Command, Halifax.
With the intent of finishing his
degree and returning to Ottawa, he
settled in Kingston in 1946. Shortly
after, he accepted a temporary
placement that lasted 31 years
until his retirement in 1978 after
a career spanning 42 years. This
last placement was as supervising
principal of the Fort Henry Schools.
Irwin has seen a lot over his
lifetime, including two world wars,
the birth of the first transcontinental
telephone call by Alexander Graham
Bell. He even watched the Ottawa
Senators win the Stanley Cup. But,
it is his family and community that
have been the focus of his life.
Irwin’s family
Irwin and his late wife Irene
(deceased in 2011) were married in
1944 and have three children: Carol
(Saskatoon); David (Kingston) and
Renaissance
All Photos: Courtesy of Irwin Ruttle
he Kingston Seniors Centre
was aglow with family, friends,
and former students and
colleagues all of whom had been
touched by Irwin Ruttle, District 20,
Frontenac, Lennox & Addington as
he celebrated his 100th birthday on
December 13, 2014.
Saluting Our Senior Seniors | Departments
Irwin cutting
the cake at his
100th birthday
celebration
with family
and friends.
Irwin and his wife
Irene, on their
wedding day, April
22, 1944, alongside
Reverend Dr. and
Mrs. Thompson.
Taken in 2012, the former S.S. #2,
Darling Township in Lanark County. This
was the second school Irwin taught in.
Brenda (Kingston); four grandchildren
(one deceased); and seven great
grandchildren. As a young family, the
Ruttles travelled extensively in both
Canada and the United States in their
travel trailer. One of Irwin’s hobbies
was photography. He had his own
darkroom and has over 7,000 slides!
Upon his retirement in 1978,
Irwin was interviewed by the local
newspaper and he reflected that in
his Fort Henry Schools’ family alone,
over 11,500 students attended his
schools, with over 300 teachers, some
of them returning two or three times
throughout their careers. He has kept
in contact with many former staff and
students. Several teachers met and
married while working during his
schools and many attended his recent
birthday celebration.
Irwin’s community
Irwin had always been at the
forefront of change and worked
with computers and hard drives
while both were in their infancy
and continually added to his
computer hardware and software.
Personal computers did not become
commonplace until just after he
retired so he did not use them
during his career, but Irwin used
them extensively in several voluntary
positions after he retired.
Summer 2015
He was an active member of the
Ontario Public School Men Teachers’
Federation (OPSMTF), including time
as president and chair of numerous
committees. He also served the
Frontenac County Schools Museum in
the capacity as business administrator
for 15 years. Irwin’s involvement
with District 20, Frontenac, Lennox
& Addington was in the capacity of
secretary-treasurer for an initial twoyear position that eventually lasted
25 years. During this time, he managed
the general secretariat, newsletter
preparation, membership records,
providing the Goodwill committee
current listings, managed telephone
queries and maintained accurate
financial records and correspondence.
Irwin’s commitment has been
recognized by an honorary District
Life membership in OPSMTF
Frontenac and a Citation of
Recognition from the Ontario
Genealogical Society in addition to
an honorary life membership in its
Kingston Branch. Irwin has even
had a District award named after
him, the District 20 Irwin Ruttle
Award to recognize the outstanding
voluntary contributions to the work
of RTO/ERO at the District level.
Miekle Turner, a former RTO/ERO
colleague and himself a recipient
of the District 20 Irwin Ruttle
Award, shared perhaps the most
representative reflection of Irwin:
“When Irwin did finally retire,
the District had to find three people
to replace him — one for each of
the three aforementioned positions!
Always striving for excellence, and
a stickler for detail, Irwin kept tabs
on just about everything in District
20, which at the time covered a very
large geographical area, including the
three counties of Lennox-Addington,
Frontenac and Leeds-Grenville. The
District was so large that after Irwin’s
retirement, Leeds-Grenville was
separated off to become District 48!
He also compiled a very comprehensive list of “what to and how to do
it to help surviving family members
with the jungle of paper work that
follows a death in a family — the epitome of “service to others”. At Irwin’s
100th birthday celebration, it was positively amazing to see Irwin on his feet
most of the time greeting the many
well-wishers; many of whom were
considerably younger and had sought
’time out’ and a chair!”
Irwin Ruttle has set the bar very
high for those who follow and it is
with a great deal of admiration and
appreciation that we share his story.
17
Demystifying
Departments | ConnectED
How to stay secure when surfing the internet
Photo: La1n, shutterstock
b y C h a r l e s Ta b o n e , M a n a g e r, I n f o r m a t i o n Te c h n o l o g y c t a b o n e @ r t o - e r o . o rg
18
Renaissance
encryption
ConnectED | Departments
M
any people worry about
data security, but don’t
understand how it works.
How do you know how secure a
web page is when you open it on
any platform (Android, Mac or
Windows)?
In today’s age there are two pieces
to the puzzle. In the spring 2015
issue, I discussed WiFi and internet
security, but the other piece of the
puzzle is data encryption.
Data encryption is the key to keeping
your personal information secure.
Encryption scrambles the information
that you send over the internet.
WiFi can either be “open” which
means anyone can use it or encrypted.
So, the first rule of thumb: if you
are using an “open” WiFi network,
your data is not safe. If you are using
a WiFi open network, BUT using an
encrypted website, you are safe.
Many websites, like banking
sites, use encryption to protect your
information as it travels from your
computer to their servers.
Look for encrypted sites
To determine if a website is encrypted,
look for the HTTPS at the start of the
web address. The “S” is for secure.
Some websites use encryption only on
the sign-in page, but if any part of your
session isn’t encrypted, your entire
account could be at risk. Always look
for the HTTPS on every page you visit.
What about mobile apps?
Mobile apps don’t have a visible
indicator like HTTPS. Many mobile
Summer 2015
apps don’t encrypt information
properly, so it’s not a good idea to
use certain types of mobile apps on
an unsecured WiFi network. If you
are using a mobile app to conduct
sensitive transactions or shopping
with a credit card, think twice. Use a
secure wireless network.
Don’t assume a WiFi network is
secure. Most WiFi networks don’t
encrypt information and therefore
are NOT secure. In fact, if a network
doesn’t require a WPA or WPA2
password (see next paragraph), it’s
definitely not secure.
There are two security protocols that
are standard to wireless routers, WPA
(WiFi Protected Access) and WPA2
(WiFi Protected Access II). These
protocols were developed to safeguard
wireless computer networks. These
protocols send random codes that
only your computer and the wireless
network knows. As information is
traded between both, the data is
scrambled. It’s these security protocols
that scramble and descramble
information, keeping it safe.
If you must use an unsecured
network, use the company’s mobile
website where you can check for the
HTTPS at the start of the web address
rather than the company mobile app.
Public WiFi protection tips
Here’s how you can protect your
information when using public WiFi.
• When using a hotspot, log in or
send personal information only
to websites you know are fully
encrypted. To be secure, your
entire visit to each site should be
encrypted — from the time you
log in to the site until you log out.
If you think you’re logged into an
encrypted site, but find yourself
on an unencrypted page, log out
right away.
• Don’t stay permanently signed in
to accounts. When you’ve finished
using an account, log out.
• Do not use the same password on
different websites. It could give
someone who gains access to one
of your accounts access to many.
• Most web browsers alert users who
try to visit fraudulent websites or
download malicious programs. Pay
attention to these warnings, and
keep your browser and security
software up-to-date.
• Consider changing the settings
on your mobile device so that it
doesn’t automatically connect to
nearby WiFi. That way, you have
more control over when and how
your device uses public WiFi.
• Some WiFi networks use
encryption: WPA and WPA2 are
common, but they might not
protect you against all hacking
programs. WPA2 is the strongest.
Take steps to secure your home
wireless network by putting a
password on your home wireless
network and using the WPA or
WPA2 protocol.
For more information or if you
have questions, contact Charles,
ctabone@rto-ero.org.
19
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AGAWA CANYON TRAIN JOURNEY
Merit Travel Hosted Tour
The unique atmosphere and rich history of Morocco makes
this an experience not to be missed. Ancient cities, kasbahs
and souks are mixed together with modern architecture. We
will be visiting historical sites, mosques, monuments and
markets in both urban and rural settings. Travel along the
Atlantic Ocean, cross the Atlas Mountains, ride camels, sleep
in a desert tent, enjoy sweet and savoury foods and a folklore
show in Marrakech.
Highlights:
Rabat | Meknes | Fez | Erfoud | Tinehir | Ouarzazate |
Marrakech | Essaouira | Casablanca
Includes: Round-trip air from Toronto
with Air Canada, economy class, 18
nights accommodation, 52 meals:
18 breakfasts; 17 lunches; 17 dinners,
gratuities to guides and drivers;
all taxes; fully hosted
$5,9951 p.p.
19 nights
Departs Toronto:
Oct. 14, 2015
For tailored vacation experiences
exclusively for RTO/ERO members,
visit rtotravel.ca or call 1.877.872.3826
Algoma Country is ablaze with colour during autumn and for decades
the canyon tour has been a favourite way to experience some of the
most spectacular autumn scenery in North America.
Highlights:
Sudbury | Science North | Sault Ste Marie | Agawa Canyon Train
Tour, Northern Ontario
Includes: Fully escorted from Toronto,
accommodation, 6 meals, coach
transportation, admission to Science
North, the Bushplane Museum and
ticket for the Agawa Canyon Tour Train,
taxes and gratuities
$9752 p.p.
4 days
Departs Toronto:
Sept. 28, 2015
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 | Sept. 28 (D) Travel north to Sudbury, visit Science North
before checking in at hotel.
Day 2 | Sept. 29 (B) After breakfast, we depart for Sault Ste Marie
to visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre.
Day 3 | Sept. 30 (B,L,D) Board the Agawa Canyon Tour Train for a
trip into the heart of Northern Ontario. You will have 90 min. to
explore the Canyon. There are hiking trails and waterfalls nearby.
Day 4 | Oct. 01 (B) After breakfast, head back to Toronto enjoying
the scenery along the way, and a stop for lunch en-route.
1.877.872.3826
CDN$ pp dbl occ. 1Single supplement $750. Space is limited on this tour. 2Single supplement $275. Contact a Merit Travel Specialist for full terms and conditions. ON-4499356/4499372
| BC-34799 | 111 Peter Street, Suite 200, Toronto ON M5V 2H1 | Canadian owned
MERIT
HOSTED
CALL US TO BOOK YOUR LONGSTAYS
VACATION FOR WINTER 2016!
GREAT DEALS FOR ONE MONTH PACKAGES
DEPARTING TORONTO FROM AS LOW AS $1,890
PLUS $476 TAXES P.P.
MERIT
HOSTED
PERU PRIVATE COLLECTION HOSTED TOUR
CLASSIC CHINA & YANGTZE RIVER TOUR
Peru is a fascinating country rich in history, nature and hospitality.
Discover spectacular scenery, ancient civilizations and modern
people whose traditions are still very much alive. This private
collection hosted tour is an inclusive cultural immersion, with
great food, and superior accommodations.
As the longest river in China, the Yangtze River offers a picturesque
collection of age old history and culture that has prevailed for
centuries. This complete hosted tour features the Yangtze River
cruise on a luxury cruise complete with shore excursions, plus the
imperial cities of Beijing and Xi’an, the world class city of Suzhou,
the charming water towns of South China, and vibrant
metropolitan Shanghai.
MERIT TRAVEL HOSTED TOUR
Highlights:
Lima | Arequipa | Chivay | Puno | Lake Titicaca | Cusco |
Sacred Valley of the Incas | Machu Picchu | Aquas Calientes
Includes:
1
p.p.
• round-trip international and
14 nights
domestic air
Departs Toronto:
• Vista Dome train to the
Apr. 9, 2016
Sacred Valley from Aquas Calientes
• Thermal baths in the Colca Canyon
• 14 nights superior accommodations
• services of a professional English speaking guide
• most meals and bottled water provided daily
• Peru destination guide
• premium lounge pass
• Merit Travel host
• gratuities
$5,500
Highlights:
Beijing | Xi’an | Suzhou | Yangtze River | Shanghai
Includes:
2
p.p.
• round-trip air from Toronto with Air
Canada, economy class
14 nights
• China domestic flights
Departs Toronto:
• 5-star hotel accommodations
Oct. 17, 2015 or
• daily breakfast, lunch and dinner as
$4,0952 p.p.
indicated on the itinerary
Oct. 13, 2016
• all entrance fees as per program
• guided sightseeing tours as indicated on the itinerary
• English speaking guide and Merit Travel host
• Premium lounge pass
$3,990
1.877.872.3826
CDN$, per person, dbl occ. Space is limited on this hosted departure. Not included: any personal expenses, such as insurance, passport fees, and gratuities, any meals, or items not
mentioned. Contact a Merit Travel Specialist for full terms and conditions. 1Single supplement: $1,700 p.p. 2Single supplement: $995 p.p. ON-4499356/4499372 | BC-34799 | 111
Peter Street, Suite 200, Toronto ON M5V 2H1 | Canadian owned
Wendy giving Paco
a cuddly hug.
22
Renaissance
All photos courtesy of Wendy Parliament.
Feature Story |
Donkey whisperer | Feature Story
Donkey
Learning life-lessons from unexpected teachers — donkeys
b y W e n d y P a r l i a m e n t , D i s t r i c t 2 0 , F r o n t e n a c , L e n n o x & A d d i n g t o n
I
’ve just come in from the first
real blast of winter — northwest
winds gusting to 50 km/h — 20
cm of snow falling … and how am
I feeling? Warm and cozy. Today is
exactly why I’m glad we (my wife
Edie Cairns and I) live with a small
herd of donkeys. No matter what the
weather, we’re up and out right after
breakfast. We adopted a standard
jack named Paco in my last teaching
term. He was fired from his job
looking after sheep — and hired
as a companion here on our little
hobby farm. Over the next year Paco
welcomed three jennies Darby, Rosie
and Bella to complete the herd.
I wondered what retirement would
have in store for me. I’m a tech geek
and love to create websites, blogs,
edit videos and dabble in digital
photography. Then there is my
interest in music, playing the piano
and puttering on art projects. Are you
noticing? That entire list tends to sit me
down. I could easily see days passing
by, while I indulged my passions in my
study. My study that would no longer
be packed with teaching materials … it
would be packed with creative projects
and a lot of sedentary time invested.
For many years now our yard has
been another “room” for our family.
We spend a great deal of time gearing
up in the spring — planning, pruning
and planting. We enjoy getting our
granddaughters involved sowing seeds
for vegetables and bulbs for summer
flowers and harvesting it all later on. In
the summer and fall it is easy to step
out the door and wander from bench
to flowers to bird baths … puttering
and deadheading and admiring what
has bloomed. But as the season
waned so did our involvement with
our outdoor spaces. Then along came
Paco — needing a home — and me
needing lots of incentive to be outside
for longer than the gardening season.
Extended family
I’ve learned a whole new language
to communicate with the herd. Paco
needed real help overcoming a fear of
being handled and of new people. I
learned how to use a clicker training
tool to slowly bring him around. The
herd needed their hooves trimmed
regularly. I met a great local farrier1
who spent an hour a week with us
1 A farrier is a person who shoes horses for horses’ feet. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/farrier
Rosie soaking up the sunshine.
Summer 2015
Paco after his
first year with Wendy and Edie.
Caught red-handed racing for acorns.
23
Feature Story | Donkey whisperer
in the beginning to teach me what
their hoof anatomy is like and I can
now do daily checks and cleaning.
I’ve even given shots on my own.
However, I think the donkeys might
let you know that our vet is much
smoother with that process!
They’ve become a much loved part
of our family. When our children
and grandkids are home for holidays
the paddock (fenced enclosure) is a
popular spot. Our granddaughters,
who live in the city, love their
donkeys and their country home.
When they are here for “Gramma
Camp” they spend hours helping out
with the chores. In our last family
photo we ended up perched in the
woods because, the donkeys are
family too.
Picture perfect in the woods.
Cute smiles. Wendy’s granddaughters spending the day with the donkey herd.
24
Attentive caretaker
Now I know daily what phase the
moon is in, where the wind is blowing
from, what the forecast is for hours
of sunshine, rain, sleet, or snow and
what the predicted high and low
temperatures are. I know what time
the sun will be coming up and when
it will set. I know that there is about
half an hour of twilight in the fall
and much less in the winter. All of
these things determine where I’ll put
the day’s feed. On hot sunny days,
the feed needs shade. In cold bitter
winter winds, the feed needs shelter.
I now own clothing that keeps me
warm, dry, cool, and UVR (ultraviolet
rays) protected. I love being out with
the donkeys for hours every day
regardless of what the weather tosses
at us. I love watching nighttime skies
and noting how the Big Dipper spends
the winter on our northern horizon.
I like noticing cirrus clouds and
preparing for the rain they predict.
We find we’re outside for two hours
in the morning and then at least that
long in the afternoon and evening.
Renaissance
Donkey whisperer | Feature Story
Wendy working in the
woods with Paco and Bella
keeping her company.
Loving care. Wendy
tending to the donkeys
in the winter.
All photos courtesy of Wendy Parliament.
Sprint for acorns
That doesn’t include the hours invested
in plowing after a snowstorm. We also
have to race the donkeys for the acorns!
We found out after we’d adopted the
donkeys that acorns are not good for
them to eat in any quantity. We have
a number of huge oak trees so rather
than cut any of the trees down we stay
on alert and wait for the acorns to fall.
Then we, and often our granddaughters,
head out with pails to search them
out. Some days we end up racing
the donkeys. They catch on quickly
to what it is we’re “harvesting”. The
squirrels love that they can just stop
by the compost pile to pick up their
winter supply. Although, sometimes
we get a good laugh when we find a
squirrel carting a mouthful back into the
paddock and woods to hide them again.
All this has kept me fit and provided
a dose of fresh air that seems to have
gone a long way to making these first
two years illness-free: no flu or colds.
Living with these creatures has
brought me back to earth and
renewed my appreciation for the little
things in life. I’d highly recommend it.
My adventures learning to be a
donkey whisperer can be followed
by checking out my blog at
http://meadowmice.net.
Sunkissed.
Paco’s first
summer on
the farm.
Summer 2015
25
Features |
Photos: courtesy of Helena Wehrstein, District 16, Toronto
Compiled by Susannah Maxcy
Helena helping out in the
Everdale greenhouse.
26
Renaissance
Learning to grow | Features
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
— Audrey Hepburn.
S
tudies1 show gardening has many physical and mental health benefits, but that doesn’t mean you need to read
a study to get out and enjoy the beauty and bounty that comes from getting your hands dirty in the garden.
From school yard to back yard, we caught up with members, Helena Wehrstein, Don Tremeer, and Lyndia and
William Hendry to discover the wild, wonderful joys of gardening.
Growing with the garden by Helena Wehrstein, District 16, Toronto
I live in downtown Toronto, but also rent a place on a 50 acre designer who created the garden in 2003. There are flower
farm one hour away: Home Alive! It is a straw bale home with beds, three small ponds with water plants and frogs, a
a beautiful permaculture garden at Everdale Place, the location hugelkultur2 area, a greywater wetland, and, of course,
of a free school from 1966 to 1974, and current home to
lots of weeds to control. Farmers and interns are always
Everdale Environmental Learning Centre, which I cofounded. at hand to answer questions and to give gardening advice.
My partner and I have been on the property since 1992, but
Benefits? They are many: relaxation; good exercise; soul
moved into Home Alive! in 2009.
renewal from being surrounded by nature, fresh air, and
I used to garden years ago, but switched to a low
natural beauty; and satisfaction from eating and sharing
maintenance yard at my Toronto home as priorities
inexpensive, home-grown, fresh produce. I love using my
changed and interest waned. Although the main focus of
creativity in planning and photographing the garden, and
the Learning Centre is training
coming up with ideas on how to
farmers, my involvement has
use yet another darn zucchini.
been in financial and board
I also get much inspiration and
matters, supporting our farmers,
hope for the future by being
but with no interest in actually
around young, enthusiastic
farming myself, until the
farmers and being a part of the
Home Alive! garden grabbed
local food movement.
me. At first, I felt obliged to tend
This spring I also got my
to its lovely, rather wild garden,
hands into the dirt at Black
as the home is occasionally
Creek Community Farm, an
open for tours, but gradually
urban farm run by Everdale and
over the past five years, I have
community partners at Jane and
spent more and more time there
Steeles. We have an RTO/ERO
during the growing season and
Project — Service to Others
have become more ambitious
grant to help fund school visits,
Home Alive! is the world’s
first
prefabricated
straw
with our garden; the garden
so I’ve been learning, teaching,
bale house and is designed
and growing has grown on me.
and sharing my enthusiasm for
to
have
a
minimal
We grow veggies and herbs,
growing food with local kids.
environmental impact3,
but also have a bounty of berries
Can’t wait until this year’s
seen here with its garden
and fruit from bushes and
harvest! To learn more: visit
designer Brad Peterson.
trees planted by the landscape
http://everdale.org.
Fun
fact
1 Michigan State University, http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/what_are_the_physical_and_mental_benefits_of_gardening. Accessed March 13, 2015.
2 Hügelkultur (also spelled huegelkultur, roughly translated from German as “hill culture”) is the practice of composting large woody material to create a raised garden
bed. It is a way of dealing with excess amounts of woody garden wastes, for example prunings, hedge clippings, brassica stems, or brushwood. www.appropedia.org/Hugelkultur.
3H
avest Homes http://harvesthomes.ca/news/item/home-alive-the-house-that-thinks-drinks-and-breathes-enernews. Accessed March 13, 2015.
Summer 2015
27
Features | Learning to grow
by Donald Tremeer, District 9, Huron, Perth
After 35 years of working with human nature in the teaching
profession, retirement seemed to be the logical next stage
of life. As my back yard replaced my classroom, efforts
gradually switched from human nature to Mother Nature.
The similarities have been astounding as the annual
harvest of fruits, vegetables, and flowers has replaced the
annual graduation of another “crop” of students.
My lot is approximately an acre in size and includes a
large vegetable garden, many flower beds and an apple
tree. This tree has a special place in the yard as it was
planted by my father nearly 50 years ago.
It has five different varieties of apples, not unlike the
odd student that seemed to have several personalities
wrapped into one body.
Having grown up on a farm in Huron County, I always
want to plant things in the spring and enjoy harvesting
the fruits of my labour in the fall. This always contrasted
with getting a new bunch of students in the autumn and
seeing them off at the end of spring.
Besides apples, my fruit crops consist of strawberries,
raspberries, red currants, and rhubarb, which are popular
with family, friends and neighbours. Some of the most
requested vegetables are asparagus, garlic, tomatoes,
parsnips, beets, and Brussels sprouts. In the fall, everyone
helps themselves to the squash collection in our carport.
These usually consist of pepper squash and zucchini, as
well as orange and white pumpkin.
There is a limited selection of herbs that appear
annually. Chives, mint, and dill are easy to produce. I also
have horseradish as I like to grind my own each year. If
you like it hot, you’d like what I’ve got!
What are the benefits of having a garden? There is
definitely no financial reward since no one is allowed
to pay for anything that comes from the garden. Seeds,
gasoline and fertilizer are all expensive, but the many
hours of labour are free. Occasionally my chiropractor
and massage therapist get rewarded.
The birds benefit from the many insects, fruits and
seeds created in a garden setting. The most rewarding
part of gardening is the sharing of products with others.
After 15 years as a student, 35 years as a
teacher/administrator and 20 years as a retiree, I have
come to one conclusion: there are more similarities than
differences between human nature and Mother Nature.
Strawberry plants ready for winter.
28
Renaissance
Photo: courtesy of Donald Tremeer, District 9, Huron, Perth.
Spring fever Learning to grow | Features
Dreams, plans, and plants
Photos: courtesy of Lyndia and William Hendry, District 13, Hamilton-Wentworth, Haldimand.
by Lyndia and William Hendry, District 13, Hamilton-Wentworth, Haldimand
Lyndia and William’s farm in winter.
In the mid 1990’s we began a new adventure as
retirement loomed. We bought a 96-acre farm northwest
of Hamilton. Two thirds of the property was agricultural
land and the remainder conservation lands, including
portions of Eastern Carolinian Forest and Beverly Swamp.
Through the “country grapevine” Joe Mount, one of
Bill’s former students, heard about the purchase and asked
to farm our fields. His family had farmed in the area for
generations using environmentally friendly practices. Thus
began a unique experience where the student became the
teacher and the teacher became the student. He taught us
how to care for the land and to grow fruits and vegetables
to fill our plates for the year and have enough to share
with family, friends and neighbours.
As the city began to encroach, we realized this land
needed to be preserved for future generations and so
began our search for an organization to partner with us
to preserve and use it for educational, environmental,
and recreational pursuits. A Rocha, an international
organization dedicated to conservation, research, and
education was a perfect fit.
Since working with this organization, the benefits have
been amazing. A Rocha arranged to have beehives placed
on the property, worked with a local school to build and
erect 50 bluebird houses, and removed and replaced
invasive plants with native ones. They also invited local
Summer 2015
Diego, a student
who participated in the
program, shown here
harvesting radishes.
artists to come to the property and interpret what they saw
through painting, sculpting, quilting, and wood cuttings;
we later hosted an art show to showcase their work.
Working with the Halton Conservation Authority, A
Rocha also mapped the various forest vegetation found on
the property. Of course, we wouldn’t be teachers if there
wasn’t an educational component to the project. A Rocha
has been instrumental in developing educational activities
and events such as an apple cider pressing event which
saw young children learning about food, enjoying nature,
feeding rescued animals and pumping water with an old
hand pump. With their help, we hope to inspire more
people to love and care for nature.
As for future plans, we hope to build a bush trail,
improve water quality, create Community Supported
Agriculture (CSA), work to protect rare species and create
a world-class environmental centre. Over the years,
we have learned that when we nurture nature, nature
nurtures us. We are dreamers, planners and planters.
To learn more, visit www.arocha.ca/events/?city=Hamilton.
29
The art of nature
Compiled by Susannah Maxcy
“Green fingers are the extension of a verdant heart.”
— Russell Page
S
ome people garden for beauty,
others for the delicious
produce. Whatever your
reason, gardening is a great way to
take a break from technology and
connect with yourself and the earth.
We chatted with June Mewhort
and Cindy Matthews about garden
magic, conquering tough terrain, and
digging your way to better health.
Above: Lilacs are beautiful and
aromatic.
30
Revitalizing the outdoors
by Cindy Matthews, District 10, Grey and Bruce, Dufferin
Almost 30 years ago, my husband,
John, and I bought a 102 acre
property in Bruce County. It had been
used for agricultural purposes until
the house burnt down in the 1940s.
Thereafter, various owners used it
primarily for recreational purposes,
which we continued. Our goal was to
move to the property in retirement,
which we accomplished in 2012.
Another goal was to improve the
landscape and existing bush lot by
expanding and building vegetable
and perennial gardens, planting trees,
and excavating the pond, which have
many benefits.
You are what you eat
Flowers provide ongoing beauty
throughout the growing season. We
primarily grow perennial flowers
and grasses. As the perennials
mature, they offer colour, shape, and
texture to the property. Throughout
the season, there’s much work
to be done: planning, planting,
composting, mulching, watering, and
weeding. Work is beneficial because
it is purposeful exercise with the
added benefit of being outdoors.
Gardening keeps hand muscles agile.
Joint pain in my hands is minimized
by keeping active.
Renaissance
photo: Cindy Matthews, District 10, Grey and Bruce, Dufferin
Features |
The art of nature | Features
Vegetable gardens offer fresh,
organic produce. Nothing is as tasty
as a fresh, homegrown tomato with
a robust flavour and juicy finish.
In addition to tomatoes, we grow
leaf lettuce, herbs, peppers, carrots,
potatoes, and peas to name a few.
Growing food means the growers eat
more vegetables, helping John and I
maintain healthy body weights. Seed
cost is negligible when compared
with the cost of store produce.
Gardening also provides emotional
and cognitive benefits. Nurturing a
plant to maturity boosts my frame of
mind. Solitary activities like hoeing
have meditative properties. Achieving
tangible results such as filling a
wheelbarrow full of weeds gives me a
sense of accomplishment. To keep my
brain sharp, I study soil improvement
techniques and cultivation methods to
improve yields. Seminars, the internet,
and magazine and book resources
expand my knowledge.
Trees provide shade thus reducing
need for air conditioning. Trees also
provide gorgeous foliage, and their
root structures help reduce erosion.
We collect fallen branches to chip into
mulch for the gardens and pathways.
Vegetable matter is composted and
eventually returned to the gardens.
For people brand new to gardening,
I suggest starting small, perhaps with
a patio tomato and small herb garden.
Later, when gardening on a larger
scale, I recommend taking frequent
breaks, staying hydrated, and pacing
work. You might wonder how you ever
existed without gardening in your life!
Cindy and Jack in the sunflower patch.
Summer 2015
Photo: courtesy of Cindy Matthews, District 10, Grey and Bruce, Dufferin.
Environmental impacts
The property is 75% covered by bush
lot and we work hard to maintain
and improve its existing bush trails.
To improve wildlife habitat, increase
food sources, and provide cover from
predators, we planted 4,000 seedlings
(butternut, oak, cedar, pine, and black
locust) in meadows and on elevations.
White-tailed deer and eastern wild
turkeys are opportunistic foragers. They
consume soft mast so we elected to
leave already established wild apple,
pear, and hawthorn trees. Other animals
that benefit from our efforts include
song birds, ruffed grouse, woodpeckers
and wood ducks to name a few.
Trees, vegetables, and flowers help
the environment. Pollinators, like
honey bees, benefit from access to
pollen. Green plants absorb carbon
dioxide and potentially harmful gasses
from the air and release oxygen.
31
Features | The art of nature
Gardening enchantment
by June Mewhort, District 28, Region of Durham
Lasagna gardening
I had read Lasagna Gardening by Patricia Lanza and since
we would be working with very tough terrain of field grass
and weeds, I was sure her method would work. Instead
of trying to dig through stubborn grass and tree roots, we
began with a layer of wet newspaper and cardboard as
directed in the book. This smothers any unwanted plants.
Then, we created the layering effect using manure and
straw from the barn alternately with peat moss and new
soil. After about a dozen layers, the soil bed was ready.
Following the instructions, we left the bed for a while to
settle before doing any planting. A couple of months later
I planted a few annuals to colour our work.
Since the new bed was under the remaining tree canopy,
it needed to be a shade garden. The following spring I
Photo: courtesy of June Mewhort, District 28, Region of Durham.
I have always needed and cherished solitude for
contemplation and psyche repair. As a young child I found
it in our magical garden in England and as an adult here
on our farm in Victoria County. Since arriving here, my
husband and I have created many flower gardens, but my
favourite is the original fairy garden.
It began years ago with the demise of a lovely old
maple tree that had lost its upper boughs and was leaning
precariously on power lines, so it had to come down.
The stump and lower trunk languished in its old space as
a reminder of ages past. Every time I walked the lane, I
became aware of a “lost soul” feeling and, feeling the need
to mend the energy web, I decided to use the downed
tree’s decaying log as the backbone of a garden.
"Fairy lady" June
with one of her
beloved fairies.
32
Renaissance
June’s enchanted fairy garden.
transplanted a couple of hostas and some other shade
perennials from other beds. As the garden began to bloom,
it had the magical properties of the treasured English
garden from my childhood and I decided to make it a
“fairy” garden. In it, I placed fairy fixtures I already had
and protective angels in various sizes that my family
and friends bought me. Over the years, I have added
miniature glow-in-the-dark fairy houses.
There are now two fairy beds in the lane. The second
one is in a sunny location, so that I can diversify the
plants and have more sites to put my many fairies.
Fairy lady
To a few neighbourhood children, I am known as the
“fairy lady” and they delight in coming for a visit when
the fairies are placed in early summer. I change the fairies’
locations each year so that they have to search for their
favourites. My grandchildren use the fairy gardens as
their play area when they want to get away from adults
for a little while. They know that they can go as far as the
first garden (in sight of the fairies), but no further if we’re
not with them.
For me, the gardens add magic and whimsy to my life.
They keep me young and they keep me busy. Most of all,
they fulfill my need for solitude on warm, sunny days.
Summer 2015
Downsizing? Relocating?
Buying or selling a cottage?
Moving out-of-country?
Have a rental or
investment property?
We welcome RTO/ERO
members to contact
us to discuss your
real estate needs
and ambitions!
Tailored commission
fees available
to RTO/ERO
members.
When Experience
and Results Count!
Since 1981
Nick A. Damiano
Owner/Broker of Record
nick@venturerealestate.ca
Venture Real Estate Corp.
Brokerage
1-888-999-7797
venturerealestate.ca
venturerealestatecorp
@VRECorp
Helping clients achieve their real estate goals
and needs is Venture’s commitment in each transaction.
Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
33
Photo: courtesy of June Mewhort, District 28, Region of Durham.
The art of nature | Features
Departments | Health Matters
inside
Smoking cessation..........................................36
Tips for submitting receipts.............................37
Blood glucose test strips.................................37
Cautious travelling..........................................38
Brain activity apps..........................................39
Photo: Hugh Wesley
Thank you.......................................................39
34
Out-of-Province/Canada Travel Benefit............40
With stroke, minutes count..............................41
Renaissance
Health Matters | Departments
Lyme disease
compiled by Eliza Ives
L
yme disease is found in Europe,
Asia, and in many parts of North
America. The risk of getting
Lyme disease is increasing in Canada.
Canadians are encouraged to take
preventive measures to reduce their
risk when spending time in areas
where there may be ticks.
Lyme disease is a serious illness
caused by the bite of an infected
blacklegged tick. Ticks are small,
ranging from the size of a poppy seed to
that of a pea. The size of the tick varies
depending on its age and whether it has
fed recently. The bite is usually painless
so you may not know that you have
been bitten. It is important to be on the
lookout for ticks and the symptoms of
Lyme disease.
The risk to Canadians
The greatest risk of contracting Lyme
disease is during the spring and
summer months. Ticks might also be
active in the winter, if the winter is
mild and has little snow.
Blacklegged ticks are most often
found in forests and the overgrown
areas between the woods and open
spaces. It is important to note that as
tick populations are spreading, it is
possible to be bitten outside of these
locations. The Public Health Agency
of Canada works with provinces
and territories to identify where
populations of infected blacklegged
ticks are established or spreading.
These areas include:
southern British Columbia;
southeastern and south-central
Manitoba;
southern and eastern Ontario;
southern Quebec;
southern New Brunswick and
Grand Manan Island; and
parts of Nova Scotia.
Symptoms of Lyme disease
Some people may have no symptoms at all. Others may suffer severe
symptoms, but not for weeks after the bite. As such, they may not associate
the illness with a tick bite. Lyme disease signs and symptoms can include
one or a combination of the following, with varying degrees of severity:
fatigue;
fever or chills;
headache;
spasms, or weakness;
numbness or tingling;
swollen lymph nodes;
skin rash;
cognitive dysfunction
(brain fog), dizziness;
nervous system disorders;
arthritis and arthritic symptoms
(muscle and joint pain); and
abnormal heartbeat.
Untreated symptoms can last months to years. More serious symptoms
include recurring arthritis (muscle and joint pain), nervous system
and/or neurological problems, numbness and/or paralysis (unable to
move parts of the body). Although not common, fatalities from Lyme
disease have been reported.
Information contained in Health Matters is intended to be used for general
information and should not replace consultation with health care professionals.
Consult a qualified health care professional before making medical decisions or if
you have questions about your individual medical situation. RTO/ERO makes every
effort to ensure that the information in Health Matters is accurate and reliable, and
cannot guarantee that it is error-free or complete. RTO/ERO does not endorse
any product, treatment or therapy; neither does it evaluate the quality of services
operated by other organizations mentioned or linked to Health Matters.
Summer 2015
Ticks don’t move far by themselves,
but they can attach themselves to
migratory birds and fall off far from
their original location. Infected ticks
can therefore be found in other areas
across Canada, and not just in the
confirmed areas noted above.
Scan this QR
code with your
smartphone
to view Health
Matters in the
Members’ Centre.
35
Feature
Lyme disease
Continued from page 35
Smoking cessation
T
obacco use and exposure to second-hand
smoke is associated with the development
and progression of chronic disease, mobility
restrictions and a decline in physical function.
Quitting smoking can enhance your quality of life
and reduce your risk of illness and premature death.
Counselling is a proven intervention strategy that
greatly increases the chance that a smoker will quit.
Smokers’ Helpline
1-877-513-5333 | www.smokershelpline.ca
Who is most at risk?
If you work outdoors or participate in outdoor activities
like golfing, hunting, camping, fishing and hiking, you
may be at greater risk for tick bites.
What to do if you are bitten by a blacklegged tick
Removing ticks within 24-36 hours usually prevents infection.
Using clean tweezers, grasp the head as close to the skin as
possible and slowly pull straight out. Afterwards, wash the
bite site with soap and water or disinfect with alcohol or hand
sanitizer. If mouthparts break off and remain in the skin,
remove them with fine-tipped tweezers. If you are unable to
remove them easily, leave them alone and let the skin heal.
If possible, save the tick in a zip-lock bag and record
the date of the bite. If you develop symptoms of Lyme
disease in the weeks after being bitten, contact your
health care provider right away. Bring the tick with you to
your medical appointment, as it may help the doctor in
assessing your illness.
Prevent Lyme-infected tick bites
The best way to protect yourself from Lyme disease is
to prevent tick bites. Protect yourself if you venture into
forested or overgrown areas:
wear closed-toe shoes, long-sleeved shirts and pants;
pull your socks over your pant legs;
wear light coloured clothes to spot ticks more easily;
use insect repellent that contains DEET (common
active ingredient to keep biting bugs away) or Icaridin
(always read and follow label directions);
shower or bathe within two hours of being outdoors to
wash away loose ticks; and
do daily full body checks for ticks on yourself, your
children or grandchildren and pets.
The Ontario Drug Benefit program also provides
smoking cessation supports to Ontarians aged 65
years and older, including coverage for prescription
cessation medications and access to free cessation
counselling by community pharmacists.
ServiceOntario
1-866-532-3161 | TTY: 1-800-387-5559
Smoking cessation drugs, such as Varenicline
(Champix®), or Bupropion (Zyban®), that require
a prescription by law are covered under the
RTO/ERO Extended Health Care (EHC) plan
under the Prescription Drugs benefit. The benefit
reimburses 85% of ingredient cost for the lowest
cost generic product, subject to the overall drug
maximum of $3,100 per insured person per
calendar year. Over-the-counter items that do not
require a prescription such as nicotine gum or a
nicotine patch would not be covered.
In some cases acupuncture is used to help
individuals quit smoking. If performed by a
certified or licensed acupuncturist, this service
cost would be eligible for reimbursement under
the RTO/ERO Extended Health Care (EHC) plan’s
Paramedical Practitioner benefit. The benefit
reimburses your eligible expenses at 80% to a
maximum of $1,100 per insured person per
calendar year for all practitioners combined. A
physician’s referral is not required and payments
are made from your first visit.
If you have any questions please email Johnson
Inc. Plan Benefits Claims, pbclaimsontario@johnson.ca.
Source: Government of Canada
36
Renaissance
Tips for submitting receipts
Here are few tips that will be helpful to you when submitting a claim under the RTO/ERO Group Benefits Program.
If you are submitting your claims electronically through
the Johnson Inc. Members only website, keep in mind
that a picture or a scanned copy of a receipt must be
clear and legible. Please ensure pertinent information
(e.g. name(s), date(s) of service) is visible on your
provider’s receipt when scanned. For audit purposes,
Johnson Inc. may ask for original receipts at any time,
so please retain your receipts for at least 24 months.
If you are mailing in your claims, always attach your
receipts and any other required documents to your claim
forms and keep copies for your files. Receipts must
indicate the name of the patient, the type of service(s)
rendered or item(s) purchased, the dollar amount, the
date paid in full and/or the date services were rendered as
well as the name, address and designation of the provider.
By showing your RTO/ERO Johnson ID Card, your
pharmacist, dentist, some paramedical practitioners
and vision care specialists may bill Johnson Inc. directly
for your eligible expenses. You may need only to pay
the portion not covered by your plan. There are less
up-front costs for you and you do not need to mail your
receipts for any expenses not covered by your plan,
such as dispensing fees or the co-payment amount.
Cash register receipts and credit card receipts are not
acceptable. Handwritten receipts are acceptable as
proof of payment provided the issuer has included
all necessary information. Receipts that have been
modified or altered may be returned to you with a
request for a new, unaltered receipt.
For coordination of benefits, a copy of the explanation
of benefits from the other insurance carrier, photocopies
of all receipts and a completed Extended Health Care
claim form, are required when submitting your claim.
If you have any questions, you can email Johnson Inc.
Plan Benefits Claims at pbclaimsontario@johnson.ca or call
905-764-4888 for toll free 1-800-638-4753.
Blood glucose test strips
photo: ratmaner, shutterstock
A
ccording to the Canadian Diabetes
Association, diabetic patients often incur
medical costs that are two to three times
higher than those without diabetes.
One way of offsetting some of the costs
associated with your diabetes management is to
participate in the RTO/ERO Extended Health
Care Plan. Items such as your blood glucose test
strips are reimbursed up to a maximum of $3,100
annually under the Prescription Drugs benefit.
If you are age 65 or older, one way of stretching
your Prescription Drugs benefit maximum and
controlling your expenses, is to purchase blood
glucose test strips that are reimbursed by the Ontario
Drug Benefit (ODB) Program. As not all diabetic
test strips are covered by ODB, your physician or
pharmacist may be able to confirm if the test strips
you use are ODB-funded or help you identify test
strips that are eligible for reimbursement under ODB.
Alternatively, you can contact Johnson Inc. Plan
Benefit Claims for confirmation.
When you submit a valid prescription from
your physician for blood glucose test strips, your
pharmacist can claim the test strips under the
Summer 2015
ODB Program instead of through your Prescription
Drugs benefit. Through your pharmacy, the Ministry
of Health and Long-Term Care’s Health Network
System will track and automatically determine the
number of blood glucose test strips that you are
eligible to receive in a 365-day period based on your
diabetes treatment methods. This will be based on
your prescription records for the past six months.*
Accessing ODB-covered test strips is a smart
way of controlling your costs. Not only are you
preserving your annual Prescription Drugs benefit
maximum of $3,100 for prescription drugs that are
not covered under the provincial plan, but you are
also helping the RTO/ERO Group Benefits Program
save money and keep costs down. Please make sure
you obtain a prescription from your physician to be
able to claim under the ODB Program!
If you have any questions about your coverage,
please send an email to Johnson Inc. Plan
Benefits Claims at pbclaimsontario@johnson.ca or call
905-764-4888 for toll free 1-800-638-4753.
*Source: Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care,
August 2014
37
Cautious travelling
Swimming and bathing:
Water may look clean, but could
still be polluted or contaminated.
You can get sick if you inhale
or swallow it while bathing,
showering or swimming.
Try to avoid getting water into your
mouth or nose when swimming
or participating in activities in
freshwater (streams, canals, lakes)
or water in pools or hot tubs, which
may not be adequately treated.
Water treatment methods
A
n intestinal illness can be caused by viruses, bacteria or parasites, and
usually involves vomiting and diarrhea. People often call it the flu,
though it is in no way related to the influenza virus, which causes
respiratory illness.
Eat and drink safely while travelling
The most common illnesses among
travellers are generally caused by
eating food or drinking beverages
contaminated by bacteria, parasites, or
viruses. Always take precautions with
food and water to avoid getting sick.
Eating and drinking:
Boil it, cook it, peel it or leave it!
Always wash your hands before
eating or preparing food. It is also
important to remember to wash your
hands after using the bathroom,
changing diapers, or having contact
with animals or sick people.
Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
if soap and water are not available.
It’s a good idea to always keep
some with you when you travel.
Only eat foods that are wellcooked and served hot. Avoid food
served at room temperature.
Avoid raw or undercooked (rare)
meats and fish, including shellfish.
38
Only eat fruits and vegetables if
you have washed them in safe
water or peeled them yourself.
Avoid salads or other items that
are made with fresh produce.
Avoid food from street vendors.
Drink water only if it has been
boiled or disinfected or if it
is in a commercially sealed
bottle.
Use ice made only from
purified or disinfected
water.
Commercially sealed
beverages in cans or bottles
and served unopened, such as
carbonated drinks, and drinks
made with boiled water and served
steaming hot, such as coffee and
tea, are generally safe.
Brush your teeth with purified or
bottled water.
Avoid unpasteurized dairy
products and fruit juices.
To ensure that water is safe to drink,
there are several water treatment
methods available for travellers.
These methods include boiling, using
chemical disinfectants, portable water
filtration devices or ultraviolet light.
Bottled water from a trusted
source is a convenient alternative to
water purification. Prior to drinking
bottled water, ensure the seal has not
been tampered with or broken.
H
Source: Government of Canada
Fast fact
You cannot tell the
difference between
contaminated and noncontaminated food by the
way it looks, smells, or
tastes. Safe food handling
and cooking practices
are key to preventing
foodborne illness.
Renaissance
Brain activity apps Exercise your brain with apps and websites
by Eliza Ives
Luminosity
Luminosity provides a series of brain
training exercises. After you specify
which cognitive skills you would
like to build on, you will be taken
through a series of quick tests. Using the results of these,
Luminosity will design a training program based on the
goals you have specified.
There is an app and website version. For the app, you
will be able to use three games per day for free. Visit
www.lumosity.com for more information.
Duolingo
Duolingo is a free language learning
website and app, downloadable on the
Apple App Store and on Google Play.
If you are an English speaker, you can
learn a number of different languages including French,
Spanish, Italian, Swedish, and German. The site is also
available for speakers of other languages, including
French.
You will be tested on your existing level of
competence, or you can start learning a completely new
language. Go to www.duolingo.com to start today!
Elevate
Elevate is a cognitive training app
designed to build communication and
strengthen analytical skills. Members
are provided with a personalized gamebased training program that adjusts to the individual over
time based on his or her performance. The app provides
detailed tracking of your progress. The free version gives
you access to three games per day for free. There is a
monthly or yearly charge for the Pro version. The app
is downloadable on the Apple App Store and on Google
Play. It is available in a variety of languages including
English and French. Give yourself a mental workout at
www.elevateapp.com.
Fit Brains
Fit Brains is designed to train
crucial brain skills such as memory,
concentration, problem-solving,
processing speed, language, and visual-
Summer 2015
spatial recognition through games accessible online
through their website and on an accompanying app. Take
a look at the website www.fitbrains.com to see if you can
enhance your focus and speed. The app is downloadable
on the Apple App Store and on Google Play. The first five
brain training sessions are free.
Y
T
hank
ou
Johnson Inc. congratulates the “Direct Deposit
2014” contest winners, Ginette Dunlop, District 27,
Ottawa-Carleton and Charles E. P. Juryn, District
33, Chatham-Kent, and extends a big thank you to
all those who participated.
Those who enrolled for direct deposit of their
claim payments were entered in a draw to win
one of two $1,000 pre-paid credit cards. Johnson
Inc. was extremely pleased with the response from
RTO/ERO members.
Mrs. Dunlop remarked, “The Direct Deposit
service is a quick, convenient and secure way to
access funds, no matter what I’m doing or where I
am. It is easy and hassle-free since there is no wait
time depositing or cashing a cheque, or concern
about postal delays or any other delivery issue.
Direct deposit is a green (no paper!) service that
definitely meets my needs.”
Mr. Juryn said, “I highly recommend enrolling
in the direct deposit service. You get your money
sooner, no matter where you are, plus claim
payments will never be held up by postal delays.”
He further endorsed direct deposit as “secure,
reliable and convenient”.
For those who have yet to sign up for this
convenient service, please email Johnson Inc. Plan
Benefits Service at healthbenefits@johnson.ca to request
an enrollment form.
39
Your Questions
Out-of-Province/Canada Travel Benefit
Q. If I have a medical emergency while travelling, am I
required to pay up-front for my emergency medical
expenses?
You should not be required to pay up-front for your
emergency medical expenses. In most cases, Allianz
Global Assistance will arrange for payment directly
with your service provider on your behalf and they will
also coordinate the recovery of eligible expenses from
your Government Health Insurance Plan. Some service
providers, however, will demand cash or credit card
payments up front before treating a patient. While Allianz
will make every effort to have the medical provider bill
them directly, the billing method is at the discretion of
the provider and practices vary from country to country.
You could be required to pay for treatment up front if
the provider will not bill Allianz directly. If you are able,
contact Allianz prior to receiving treatment so they can
direct you to providers who will charge the insurer for
the cost of emergency medical expenses.
Q. If I have a medical emergency, do I have to return
home once I am stable to travel? We have a summer
home in Ontario but cannot stay there in the winter.
Following treatment of a medical emergency during a trip,
Allianz, in consultation with your attending physician,
will determine whether you must return to your province
of residence for continued treatment. If the attending
physician confirms that you are stable to travel and
can wait to have further treatment, Allianz will make
arrangements to return you to your province of residence
for continued care. If you choose not to return, Allianz
will issue a “limitation of benefits”. This means no further
payments will be made for continued treatment, recurrence
or complications arising from the same or a related medical
condition. Coverage will remain in effect for unrelated
medical emergencies. The intent of the Out-of-Province/
Canada Travel benefit is to stabilize your condition so you
can return home for the required continued treatment.
Q. What is my “date of departure” and why is it important?
Your “date of departure” means the calendar day that you
leave your province of residence. Therefore, if you return to
your province of residence during an insured trip, your day
of departure will change as the most recent calendar day that
you departed from your province of residence has changed.
For example, if you book a flight to Florida departing
November 1, 2015 and returning February 1, 2016, your
40
Answered
date of departure would be November 1, 2015. However,
if you return to Ontario (your province of residence)
December 22 – 29, 2015 to spend Christmas with your
family, December 29, 2015, (the day when you return to
Florida), is now the date of departure for the remainder
of your trip. This is because it is the most recent calendar
day that you left your province of residence.
In the event of a claim, Allianz requires your date of
departure to determine how long you have been outside
your province of residence. This date is also used to
determine if your condition is considered sudden and
unforeseen according to the RTO/ERO Out-of-Province/
Canada Travel benefit’s medical stability clause.
For example, if we look at the trip dates above, the
medical stability period for your initial trip to Florida is the
90 days prior to the date of your departure, November 1,
2015. As we have seen, because you are returning to
your province of residence between December 22 and
December 29, 2015, your subsequent return to Florida
has a new date of departure of December 29, 2015 and,
therefore, a new medical stability period.
The medical stability period is the 90 days prior to
December 29, 2015. Consequently, any medical conditions
or emergencies that occur during the first trip (November 1 –
December 22, 2015) or during the period back in your
province of residence (December 22 – 29, 2015) may affect
the stability clause for the second trip (December 29, 2015 –
February 1, 2016) because these periods now fall within
the 90 days prior to your date of departure. If you have
any questions about the medical stability period, please
contact Johnson Inc. Plan Benefits Service at 416-920-0939
(Toronto area) or 1-877-406-9007 (toll-free).
Q. If my doctor changes one of my medications or if
I switch from a brand to a generic drug in the 90
days prior to making a trip, will this affect whether
my condition is considered stable?
A change in medication, dosage or usage does not
automatically mean that the condition would be excluded
from coverage under the RTO/ERO Out-of-Province/
Canada Travel Benefit. However, if the change in
medication was due to a change in condition, it is that
change in condition that would make related claims
ineligible for reimbursement should you choose to travel.
A switch from brand to generic does not constitute a
change in medication.
Renaissance
Q. W
ill I be able to claim for pre-paid travel
arrangements for trips within my province of
residence under the trip cancellation benefit if I have
to cancel them due to a medical emergency?
The RTO/ERO Out-of-Province/Canada Travel benefit
defines a ’trip” as a defined period of travel outside your
province of residence while your insurance is in effect.
Your trip begins on the date you leave your province of
residence. As a result, travel plans within your province
of residence are not eligible expenses under the trip
cancellation benefit.
Q. W
here can I find Allianz’s emergency contact phone
number for the country I am visiting?
Allianz Global Assistance offers many additional
services to help ensure a worry-free vacation, including
information on how to contact them from any country.
Some examples are:
1.Pre-Trip Assistance, providing important travel
information about the country you are visiting, including:
Travel advisories;
Required inoculations;
Local currencies;
Visa requirements;
Allianz’s emergency contact phone number(s), which
may be different depending on whether you call from
your personal cell phone or a local land line; and
How to make a phone call, including the required
country codes.
2.Assistance with the replacement of necessary travel
documents or tickets if lost or stolen. The cost is your
responsibility.
3.Referral to a local legal advisor, assistance with
arranging for advances from your personal credit card
and/or arranging for family/friends to post bail and pay
legal fees. All expenses are your responsibility.
4. Telephone interpretation services in most major languages.
5.Message service where telephone messages to/from you
or your dependents are held for 15 days.
With stroke, minutes count
T
ime is everything during a
stroke. In fact, there is a saying
that “time lost is brain lost.”
Stroke occurs when the blood
supply to the brain is cut off.
Brain cells die at a rate of two
million per minute after a stroke,
so the sooner blood flow can be
restored, the better the chance
of survival — with little or no
disability.
It is important for Canadians to
learn the signs of stroke and know
what to do. FAST is an easy and
memorable way to remember the
major signs of stroke:
LEARN THE SIGNS OF STROKE
© Heart And Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2014
Summer 2015
#
As soon as you recognize a stroke
sign, call 9-1-1 or your local
emergency number and tell them
you are having or witnessing a
stroke. Arriving by ambulance
means not only getting to the
hospital faster, but getting to the
“right” hospital — one that is
equipped to provide emergency
stroke care. Not all hospitals have
the capacity to administer clot
busting drugs, which can stop
or reverse the effects of stroke.
With the correct information the
emergency medical services will be
able to determine which hospital in
your area can best help.
Stroke is the third leading cause
of death in Canada and a leading
cause of disability. There are an
estimated 62,000 strokes in Canada
each year. That is one stroke every
nine minutes.
For more information visit
heartandstroke.ca.
© 2015 Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
41
Communications
The committee offers regional
workshops whereby workshop
leaders travel to Districts at the
Committee’s expense to lead sessions
on various topics.
The committee holds PD in-service
sessions before meetings. Since the
last Senate we learned about Twitter
features that allow Districts to more
immediately communicate with their
members, and explored the features
of MailChimp, an online program for
emailing newsletters.
Health Services
participants in the Plans.
The utilization of Eldercare
Select services which is available
to members of the EHC Plan grew
steadily throughout 2014. Types of
assistance provided have included
health condition guidance, seniors’
safety, transition advocacy, resource
identification and general seniors’
health information.
One of the strengths of the
RTO/ERO Group Benefit Plans is
that members can submit possible
plan enhancements for consideration
to our committee which is also
composed of RTO/ERO members.
A group benefit plan is owned by
the members and is governed by a
committee of members (HSIC). It
provides the protection of a group,
just like a union. In February the
committee started the renewal
process for 2016 by reviewing
over 50 health plan enhancements
submitted by members. Over the
next three meetings the HSIC will
look at potential costs for various
submissions and decide what changes
will be made to coverage for 2016.
42
Pension and Retirement
Audit
Canadian accounting standards
for not-for-profit organizations.”
The Audit Committee,
auditors, and senior management
worked cooperatively to
review financials and specific
concerns related to the
operation of RTO/ERO. Staff
provided the data, files and
financial statements for the
auditors to review, which
were then reviewed by the
Audit Committee before being
presented to Senate for approval.
RTO/ERO continues to enjoy
sound finances, well monitored
by the Provincial Executive,
and well managed by staff.
Over 35 Locations
Across Ontario
Arnprior
Barrie*
Belleville
Bolton
Burlington
Campbellford
Collingwood
Essex
Etobicoke
Hawkesbury
Kingston*
Leamington
Lindsay
London*
Mississauga
Orillia
Orleans
Ottawa*
Perth
Peterborough*
Richmond Hill
Scarborough
Stittsville
Strathroy
Tecumseh
Trenton
Windsor*
We look forward to
hearing from you!
will be introduced and input from the
representatives added to it. Presentations
will be given by both committee
members and external personnel.
One of the committee’s priorities
has been to upgrade its technical
skills especially as they pertain
to the use of computers, the
internet and social media. It is
anticipated that webinars, YouTube
videos, downloadable PowerPoint
presentations and links to other
websites will be a significant part of
the available tools. Also, the revised
PRC manual will be distributed in
a user-friendly electronic version.
In doing so, the committee
anticipates making all its resources
more dynamic and therefore more
attractive to the members.
Hear Now, Pay Later
For as little as $132 a month,
you will benefit from the newest
hearing aid technology and start
enjoying life to the fullest today!
**
Contact Helix to book your appointment.
877-685-5327 I www.helixhca.com
* Multiple locations.
** Payment amount calculated after all applicable government grants and discounts.
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BayLuderitz
and Luderitz
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| $5,323
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INSIDE 2NDINSIDE 2ND
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OFFOFF
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Aegean
2nd person
2nd person
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to Athens
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(2-nt hotel
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hotelGolden
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Fly to Fly to
Mumbai,
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cruisecruise
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Salalah,
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Safaga
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– return
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$
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11,995 | $6,595
| $6,595
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INSIDE 1STINSIDE 1ST
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your entry for a chance to win.
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to Cape
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from from
Enter our contest by guessing the destination in the
photo and win a $500 travel voucher towards any
package with Merit Travel!
50%50%
OFFOFF
• Excursions
• Excursions
with with Casablanca
Casablanca
(Rabat);
(Rabat);
Marrakesh
Marrakesh
(Agadir);
(Agadir);
expertexpert
guidesguides
• Pre-•and/or
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Post-cruise
hotel hotel
stays stays
CLASSICAL
CLASSICAL
CIVILIZATIONS
CIVILIZATIONS
Where in the world is this?
from
only 25%
25%
INCLUDES:
INCLUDES:
• FREE• FREE
roundtrip
roundtrip
airfare*
airfare*
WE INVITE
WE INVITE
YOUYOU
TO JOIN
TO JOIN
US ON
US AON
CRUISE
A CRUISE
TO VISIT
TO VISIT
INSIDE 2NDINSIDE 2ND
PERSON PERSON
Travel in the company
of likeminded people;
SOLO SOJOURNS
enjoy single occupancy
DISCOVER PARADISE!
costly single supplements;
accommodation without the
experience the comfort and
safety of small group travel.
COSTA RICA SOLO TRIP
The diversity of experiences and climate zones can only be experienced
in a well planned itinerary. Enjoy the fascinating culture, wildlife,
landscapes and activities. You will discover volcanoes, rainforests, cloud
forests, mountains, exotic birds and animals, soft adventure activities
and much more.
Highlights:
Arenal Volcano | Hot Mineral Springs | Waterfall Canyoning |
Ziplining, Hanging Bridges | Monteverde Cloud Forest | Manuel
Antonio National Park | Naranjito and Londres | San Jose
Includes:
nine nights accommodation (single
occupancy), breakfast daily, five lunches,
four dinners, transportation and
activities as described
$3,150 p.p.
9 nights
Departs Toronto:
Jan. 11, 2016
For tailored
For tailored
vacation
vacation
experiences
experiences
exclusively
exclusively
for RTO/ERO
for RTO/ERO
members,
members,
visit visit
rtotravel.ca
rtotravel.ca
or call
or 1.877.872.3826
call 1.877.872.3826
1.877.872.3826
Prices are
Prices
per person
are perbased
persononbased
double
onoccupancy,
double occupancy,
space available
space available
in U.S. dollars,
in U.S. BUT
dollars,
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and is applicable
and is applicable
when booking
when booking
the complete
the complete
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cruise-tour.
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registry:
Ships registry:
Malta. ON-4499356/4499372
Malta. ON-4499356/4499372
| BC-34799
| BC-34799
|
|
111 Peter
111Street,
Peter Suite
Street,
200,
Suite
Toronto
200, Toronto
ON M5V2H1
ON M5V2H1
| Canadian
| Canadian
owned owned
CDN$ pp dbl occ. Land only. Space is limited on this hosted departure. Contact a Merit
Travel Specialist for full terms and conditions. ON-4499356/4499372 | BC-34799 | 111 Peter
Street, Suite 200, Toronto M5V 2H1 | Canadian owned
The AmaWaterways River Cruise Advantage:
EXCLUSIVE RTO/ERO MEMBER SAVINGS
AVAILABLE ON AmaWaterways!
Black Sea Voyage
$2,249
* p.p.
SAVE
$750
p.p.
7 nights
Departs: Nov. 2, 2015
Calling on: Austria | Hungary | Croatia | Romania | Serbia |
Bulgaria | Turkey
Optional 6-night land program in Vienna or Budapest (2 nights),
Bulgaria (1 night) and Istanbul (3 nights) available for $1,500 p.p.
RTO/ERO Members Bonus: $300 Shipboard Credit!**
Paris & Normandy
Cruising the Seine through Normandy in France
* p.p.
$2,499
• spacious staterooms with French balconies or
revolutionary Twin Balconies
• in-room Entertainment-on-Demand system
featuring high-speed internet access, newly
released movies and music library
• complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi access
• whirlpool or pool with swim-up bar, Spa, fitness
room, hair salon
• multiple dining venues, including The Chef’s Table
specialty restaurant
• complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with every
lunch and dinner
• nightly entertainment, cocktail reception, welcome
dinner & Captain’s gala dinner
• daily excursions including complimentary culinary
tours, guided bike tours and hiking tours
• a fleet of bicycles to explore on your own
• services of a professional Cruise Manager
Melodies of Danube – Wine Cruise!
$2,049* p.p.
p.p.
p.p.
7 nights
Calling on: Hungary | Austria | Germany
Optional land program in Munich (3 nights) available for $900 p.p.
Christmas on the Rhine
SAVE
$750
SAVE
$750
$2,698* p.p.
SAVE
$1,500
p.p.
7 nights
Departs: Dec. 23, 2015
Calling on: Netherlands | Germany | France | Switzerland
7 nights
Optional 4-night land program in Switzerland Lucerne (2 nights)
and Zurich (2 nights) available for $1,160 p.p.
Optional land program in Paris (2 nights) available for $600 p.p.
Treasures of the Main & Rhine
Other dates and itineraries available - please inquire!
$2,698* p.p.
7 nights
Departs: Dec. 28, 2015
Calling on: Czech Republic | Germany | Netherlands
SAVE
$1,500
p.p.
Optional land program in Prague (3 nights) available for $780 p.p.
For tailored vacation experiences
exclusively for RTO/ERO members,
visit rtotravel.ca or call 1.877.872.3826
1.877.872.3826
*USD$ pp dbl occ, cruise only. Call for Solo Pricing. Space is limited on this hosted departure. Prices listed are for 7-night cruise only per person in a category E stateroom based on double occupancy.
Prices listed for Christmas on the Rhine and Treasure of the Main & Rhine are in a category BB based on double occupancy. Land programs, airfare, port charges and gratuities are not included in the
price listed. Offer valid through June 30, 2015. **Shipboard credits are per couple. ON-4499356/4499372 | BC-34799 | 111 Peter Street, Suite 200, Toronto ON M5V 2H1 | Canadian owned
MERIT
YOUR WORLD AWAITS
YOUR DISCOVERY
HOSTED
ALL THE SAILINGS LISTED INCLUDE:
Round Trip Air | Pre-Paid Gratuities | Complimentary Internet |
PLUS the Shipboard Credits Listed Below, Per Stateroom
2015
SAIL DATE
DAYS
EMBARK/
DISEMBARK
CRUISE NAME
SHIPBOARD
CREDIT†
SPECIAL FARE PER
GUEST CAT. G
Aug. 5
onboard
Riviera
7
Barcelona to
Monte Carlo
Scenic Coves
$450
USD $2,478*
+ 121 taxes
Aug. 14
onboard
Marina
7
Copenhagen to
Stockholm
Baltic Marvels
$450
USD $2,337*
+ 162 taxes
11
Venice to Istanbul
Alluring Adriatic
$750
USD $4,524
+ 175 taxes
Aug. 27
onboard
Nautica
12
Copenhagen to
London
Nordic Splendor
$600
USD $4,485*
+ 314 taxes
Sept. 2
onboard
Marina
12
Amsterdam to
Barcelona
Vineyards and Vistas
$750
USD $4,722*
+ 277 taxes
Sept. 14
onboard
Marina
10
Barcelona to
Rome
Italian Impressions
$700
USD $4,259*
+ 140 taxes
Sept. 20
onboard
Insignia
20
Dubai U.A.E to
Singapore
Far East Jewels
$1,050
USD $4,422*
+ 277 taxes
Oct. 4
onboard
Nautica
21
Istanbul to Dubai
Footsteps of
Discovery
$850
USD $3,993*
+ 506 taxes
8
Athens to
Barcelona
Mediterranean
Mosaic
$450
USD $2,572*
+ 127 taxes
10
Monte Carlo to
Barcelona
Coastal Treasures
$850
USD $3,563*
+ 136 taxes
Aug. 27
onboard
Riviera
Oct. 5
onboard
Riviera
Oct. 14
onboard
Marina
**
DISCOVER PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, the County is a Gem that
must be discovered! So much to offer including artisan cheese
makers and farms, boutique wineries, gorgeous landscapes and
trails, charming inns and shops. Prince Edward County is a
cornucopia of foods and wines making the eat local concept part
of daily life. Our first destination is Picton, in the heart of the county.
Includes:
• luxury motor coach transportation
• two nights accommodation
• two breakfasts
• visits to Lake on the Moutain
• winery tour and visit to an
artisan cheese maker
• tour of Kingston
dinner at The Waring House
$6751 p.p.
double occupancy
$8501 p.p.
single occupancy
3 days
Departs Toronto:
Sept. 30, 2015
For other day trip and multi day trips including:
Agawa Canyon, NYC, Boston, Quebec City and more,
please visit our website at www.rtotravel.ca. We would also
welcome your suggestions of places you would like to see!
Contact your local
Merit Travel Specialist
to book one of these
amazing sailings!
1.877.872.3826
*USD$ pp dbl occ. CAT G. Inside Stateroom. **CAT F. Inside Stateroom. †Shipboard credits are in USD$, per Stateroom. Round trip air is included from Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and
Vancouver. Other gateways available at an additional charge. Government taxes and fees are included. Offer is based on availability at time of booking, is capacity controlled and
may be withdrawn without notice. 1CDN$ p.p. Land only. ON-4499356/4499372 | BC-34799 | 111 Peter Street, Suite 200, Toronto M5V 2H1 | Canadian owned
Departments | Members’ Bookshelf
The Loyalist’s Wife
by Elaine Cougler, District 37,
Oxford, 342 pp, Createspace,
2013, ISBN: 9781490414898
Review written by Millie
Gremonprez, District 41, Elgin.
E
laine Cougler’s
historical novel, The
Loyalist’s Wife, offers
readers an entertaining and
adventure-filled account of
John and Lucy Garner’s dual
stories of separation, war,
and epic struggle both at
home and on the battlefield.
The young couple has only just settled onto their
new homestead in isolated New York State when John
is tormented with an agonizing decision. Should he stay
home and follow through on their dreams of a new life,
or head off to support the British by joining Butler’s
Rangers in the American War of Independence? His
Loyalist conscience is strong and he and his neighbour,
Frank, head off to join the troops. Lucy, a Boston girl new
to the wilderness, must manage the little farm and the
livestock on her own.
Punctuated with timely historical events, the novel
showcases soldiers’ daily lives as well as their inevitable
battles. The soldiers’ brave idealism soon gives way to
the realities of endless marching, loss of comrades and
the ongoing plight of natives caught on both sides of the
conflict. John and Frank are separated from the rest of
the Rangers, leading to an encounter with Canada’s best
known native Loyalist, Joseph Brant.
Lucy struggles with daily solitude and only one small
letter from John early on. Now pregnant, her future
and survival are uncertain in the wilderness. Her father,
victimized back in Boston for his Loyalist convictions,
arrives to join her in the life he had so opposed at the
time of her marriage to John. We are witness to her
metamorphosis from a city girl to a brave woman.
The Loyalist’s Wife is a compelling story and a
fresh perspective on early settlers who laid down the
foundations of our own history. Well-researched and
highly entertaining, it is a tale of ordinary people who, in
extraordinary times, became heroes.
To purchase the book on Amazon, visit
www.amazon.ca/The-Loyalists-Wife-Elaine-Cougler/dp/1490414894.
46
On ne revient jamais de Compostelle!
by Rhéal Sabourin, District 27,
Ottawa-Carleton, 306 pp., Les
Éditions de la Francophonie,
2012, ISBN 9782896273140
Reviewed by Pauline DuquetteNewman
O
n ne revient jamais de
Compostelle! The book
tells the tale of Rhéal
Sabourin, a retired FrancoOntarian teacher and school
principal, who walked the
Compostela in September
2006, thereby achieving a 10-year dream of completing
the whole route, from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to
Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Compostella, alternately
know as Way of St. James or Camino de Santiago, is a
pilgrimage route the author took as a retreat on a spiritual
path for his personal growth.
In this book, Rhéal describes his month-long journey
along an illustrious route. We read about his pilgrimage
experienced at two levels: the intellectual/physical level and
the less tangible emotional/soul-directed path. He comes
to the realization that all the adventurers are walking in
their own way, for their own reasons, which may include
learning to live after the death of a loved one, redefining
spirituality or as a fitness challenge. The reader witnesses
the author’s questions day-by-day, over time and through
encounters, where he soaks in the age-old history of this
legendary route, its architecture and fortresses, bridges,
fountains and cathedrals; it is impossible not to imagine
pilgrims travelling over the centuries.
The book gives a down-to-earth description of his state
of mind inspired by his encounters, the landscape, the
temperature challenges, sometimes unstable and rocky paths,
pilgrims’ huts, meals with good company, happy coincidences,
the Bodegas Irache wine fountain, misadventures, the fear of
“coquillards” (tricksters who profit from people’s generosity)
and the animals that sometimes share the path. There is also
the competition among walkers who need to leave early
in the morning, in the dark and sometimes in the fog, to
make sure they have a roof to sleep under that night.
“How did you feel when you got back from Compostella?”
Some, like the author, have never really come back, but
perhaps this book will inspire you to go. To purchase the
book, visit www.editionsfrancophonie.com, for $24.95.
Renaissance
Members’ Bookshelf | Departments
The Wives’ Tales: Looking Back How War Changed Our Lives
Edited by Helen Amoriggi, 151 pp, DR Press, ISBN: 9781552233351
Reviewed by Anne Wilson, District 5, Cochrane, Temiskaming
I
found this book to be a fascinating
collection of 14 riveting stories about
the lives of a group of women. Each
one had married a soldier, who became
a refugee from communism at the end
of the Second World War.
This is the common thread in the
book, since each story is so different and
so unique. The women’s lives passed by
in various countries of the world: United
Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Yugoslavia,
Canada, the United States and Australia.
Their lives and families evolved in
various circumstances over time.
The foreword is where the stage is
set by the editor, Dr. Helen Amoriggi
of McGill University. She describes
her connection to the group of
women, through her work with one
of the authors, Jeanne Milovanovic,
District 24, Scarborough and East York.
The introduction provides the
historical background of this critical
period, before, during and after the
war. Each soldier was a member of
the Serbian Volunteer Corps, who
fought for their freedom, faith and
trust in the monarchy.
Each story has a picture of the
married couple at the end. The author
of the last two stories describes a
horrific wartime experience in the first
story and then goes on in her second
story to write about, what she entitles,
“My Exodus”. Readers who enjoy
modern history, as I do, will find
much to ponder in each story. The
Wives Tales reminds us that each of us
has a story to tell.
Since the publication and first
printing of the book in 2005, the
60th anniversary of the end of the
Second World War, a considerable
sum of money has been donated
to refugees and orphans in Serbia
and Montenegro. This publication
of these stories was spearheaded by
five of the authors. Eva Naisanovich,
Jeanne Milovanovic, and Olga
continue to be involved with this
book. Contact Jeanne Milovanovic,
leannemilovanovic@rogers.com, if you are
interested in purchasing the book.
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clinic for details. ®†™†Trademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Co. and Canada Hearing Ltd.
MAG-RTO-BOGO
Summer 2015
47
Departments | Classifieds
FOR RENT
TRADITIONAL MUSKOKA COTTAGE on 200’
waterfront. Sleeps 6. 20 min from Port Carling.
Contact morrow1206@gmail.com.
TUSCANY. Beautifully restored farmhouse on
a hilltop surrounded by award winning vineyard.
2 br, 2 en suite baths. Stunning views. Near
Montepulciano, Cortona, Siena. Travel info. package with detailed itineraries included. RTO/ERO
discount. 416-588-1954, www.tuscany-villa.com.
FRANCE – BEAUFORT. Charming village home
surrounded by vineyards of the Languedoc region
in the south of France (3 br, 21/2 baths). Sunny
gardens, pool, large windows and shady pergola.
Close to markets, sightseeing, fine restaurants
and regional wines. Driving distance to the Mediterranean. House Manager avail. nearby for assistance. Refer to www.maisonbeaufort.com.
BRUCE PENINSULA COTTAGE. Sleeps 9.
Huge, beautiful, private. Amenities. $900 per wk.
519-471-5155.
FRANCE, RIVIERA. Seaview Studio, steps from
beach and market. http:/bandolstudiorental.blogspot.com,
francoisecockburn44@gmail.com.
SOUTHERN FRANCE – NARBONNE. Spacious
2 br furnished apt on canal. Old world charm.
Modern conveniences. Centrally located. Parking.
From $725/wk. 416-690-8622, larobine@sympatico.ca,
larobineapartment.com.
ANDROS ISLAND, BAHAMAS. New 2 br luxury apt
on a secluded beach, with spectacular views of ocean
and mangrove swash. Private sandy beach for swimming, snorkelling, and birdwatching. All amenities incl.
For more info, contact androsislandholiday@gmail.com.
EDINBURGH, U.K. Beautiful 1 br holiday apt avail
year round. Ideal location, very reasonable rates.
helendonohoe@sympatico.ca.
BEAUTIFUL 5 BR LAKE HURON COTTAGE.
Info/details at http://tinyurl.com/c8u3kom. Fully
equipped. $850/wk. May, June, Sept.; $1250/wk.
July, Aug. Contact crnrcttg@gmail.com.
BARBADOS. Main floor condo, opening onto gardens and swimming pool. All amenities. Walking
distance to everything you need. 2 br villa in same
area avail. dmckerron@live.com, 519-648-2941.
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA. Gorgeous condos,
1 or 2 br, resort setting, with everything
needed for a perfect holiday! Pictures, etc.
www.29desertsunescape.com. Kathy, 1-519-720-0267
(Brantford ON), kathy.robins@sympatico.ca.
BERMUDA ST. GEORGES CLUB. 1 br cottage,
full kitchen, sleeps 4, avail Nov. 28, 2015 for 1 or 2
wks, stunning views. Email stewgraydon@hotmail.com
or call 416-255-5169.
FOR SALE
FOR SALE: NERJA, SPAIN 2 WK TIMESHARE,
sleeps 4. Contact ed.davey@rogers.com.
DEEDED TIMESHARE. $2,000, desirable 2 br RedWeek #29, includes RCI membership to 2018 plus
4 vacation/exchangeable wks. helen_wiber@me.com.
BEAUTIFUL SEBRING FLORIDA HOME. Detached,
2 br, 2 baths, updated kitchen, cathedral ceiling,
garage, lanai, amenities, golf course community.
Asking: $135,000 U.S. Info: jsgurr@muskoka.com or
705-641-2323.
LOVINGLY KEPT FAMILY HOME IN 25 ACRE
FOREST. 5 br, two baths. Many upgrades.
20 min from Goderich. Email for further info,
mcdonnellcarol223@gmail.com.
LAKEFRONT OR OCEANFRONT – Yours to choose
from in relaxing Nova Scotia. RTO/ERO member
and real estate agent seeks your business. Current
market prices will surprise you. Beautiful harbour/
oceanfront acreage in active artist’s haven; more
remote with 3-season access and 2 br cottage, etc.
Email pam.winters@exitinterlake.com or 902-354-8550.
SERVICES AND OPPORTUNITIES
MASSAGE WITH EXPERIENCED RMT. For an
appt, call Jack 416-255-7490, website, jacekc.com.
RELOCATING TO VANCOUVER ISLAND? Join
RTO/ERO District. 1. Make new friends 2. Keep
all your health benefits 3. Become involved in your
new community. Contact Darrell Grande, President, dpgran@shaw.ca, district47.rto-ero.org.
EXPERIENCE ALGONQUIN. On a small lake in
the heart of Algonquin Park, Tanamakoon offers
a peaceful setting for participants age 50+ who
want to enjoy an active wk in the outdoors. Excellent food, exciting program, beautiful setting.
All incl. price $735. Program runs early Sept.
www.tanamakoon.com/adult.shtml or call 905-338-9464.
D’S CREATIVE COMPUTER SERVICES. Need
help with your computer? Digital camera? Thinking
about a new smart TV, tablet, smartphone or GPS,
but are frustrated with anything digital. Don’t be.
Learn to adapt technology to your needs. Friendly,
patient, in-home service and instruction, purchase
consultation and setup all at reasonable rates (GTA
only). Perry: 647-933-3006, 905-539-0852.
NOVA SCOTIA RENOVATED FARMHOUSE.
Near Fundy shore in Hampton. For rent from Sept.
1 for one year. lck@eastlink.ca.
UKULELE KIDS, Canada’s largest extra-curricular ukulele program is looking for managers
and instructors. Classes of elementary age students meet at lunch or after school. Write to
ken@ukukelekids.ca.
TIME SHARES. Birchcliff Villas at Deerhurst Inn.
1 br in May. Quality Muskoka resort with terrific
facilities. Royal Harbour in Thornbury. Studio in
Feb. Comfortable resort in great setting; skiing paradise. 705-283-1260 or ericpeg.balkind@gmail.com.
YESHIVA YESODEI HATORAH is seeking experienced, certified elementary and junior high teachers for 2015-2016. Afternoon positions. Contact
Rabbi Mendel Bornstein, office@yesodeihatorah.ca
or 416-787-1101, ext. 237.
48
DONATE YOUR RECENT BOOKS. Under 7 years
old only. We sell them to fund schools in Haiti.
Google us online “Fernlea Ivix Non-Profit Books”.
TRAVEL
CUBA – ’SPANISH STUDIES IN CUBA’ (HAVANA).
$2,500 CAD for 4 wks. Hotel with breakfast and
dinner, tuition fee (airfare not incl.). 250-478-0494,
ssic@telus.net, spanishstudiesincuba.ca.
BARBADOS. Vacation anytime at The Crane,
www.thecrane.com. F o r m o re i nfo, em ai l
krippon99@sympatico.ca.
AMA WATERWAYS #1 IN EUROPE FOR RIVER
CRUISING. 11 different itineraries to choose from
in the spring, summer and fall of 2016. Blue Danube,
Bordeaux, Rhine & Switzerland, South of France,
Portugal, Spain and many more. TICO #50012993.
Call Expo Cruises & Tours at 416-439-6311 or
1-888-819-7447, www.expo-cruises.com.
ADVENTURES FOR THE SEASONED TRAVELLER. 1st class packages to: Africa, Bhutan,
Burma, China, India, Nepal and Tibet. Train journeys aboard Golden Eagle to Russia, Siberia and
China or Africa aboard Rovos Rail from Dar to
Cape or Namibia, the most luxurious train in the
world. TICO #50012993. Call Expo Cruises &
Tours, 1-888-819-7447, www.expo-cruises.com.
GREECE. Charming 1 br on Mediterranean Sea.
Fully equipped, AC. Contact morrow.gr@gmail.com.
FRANCE ALSACE. Wine route near Strasbourg,
large 2 br apt. Balcony overlooking river, beamed
ceilings. Contact morrow.gr@gmail.com.
CHINA and YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE. Spend 16
days in the Eastern Giant, Oct. 6, 2015. Visiting Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai and Guilin, see the magnificent
highlights and set sail on a delightful cruise through
the Three Gorges. Escorted by retired Niagara
teacher Pam Cannon. Call 1-800-387-8890 or visit
www.craigtravel.com. TICO #1498987.
NAMIBIA. Join retired Peel teacher Janet Williams
as she escorts you through some of the finest
game viewing in Etosha. From prehistoric rock
paintings to the Bushmen of the Kalahari Desert,
immerse yourself in the wonders of Africa on
Sept. 29, 2015 for 18 days. Call 1-800-387-8890
or visit www.craigtravel.com. TICO #1498987.
GREECE, PELEPONNESES. Beachfront apt,
fantastic views. Family-run rental, mildest winter
climate on continent. www.alexandrakhouse.com.
A CASTLE IN PROVENCE. A unique and memorable wk in your very own 14th century Provençal
castle. Small groups, relaxed pace, wonderful
destinations, gourmet dinners with fine wines and
much more. From $3,500 p.p. dbl. (some singles
avail at $3,750 per room). Sept 2016. Contact
Hélène at hbuisson@ofrance.ca, www.ofrance.ca.
COSTA RICA FOR NATURE LOVERS. Private luxury ocean side villa, jungle pool view, RTO/ERO members 50%. www.villacostarica.info, Joan 416-578-5640.
Continued on next page
Renaissance
Reunions | Departments
CALLING ALL CENTRAL TECH ALUMNI, former teachers and friends.
Central Technical School will be celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2015.
The CTS Alumni Association is planning many events and activities leading
up to our Gala Event in Oct, 2015. For more info, please visit our website,
www.ctsalumni.com or call 647-693-2013.
OTTAWA BOARD OF EDUCATION STAFF REUNION. This is an invitation to
a fun filled evening at the 2015 OBE staff reunion to all former Ottawa Board
of Education, Sept. 26, from 4:30 – 11:00 p.m. at Algonquin College. For
details, www.obereunion.ca. Contact registrar@obereunion.ca.
ST. CATHARINES TEACHER’S COLLEGE FIRST GRADUATING CLASS
OF 1965-66, 50th year reunion, Sat., Sept. 19, 2015, Brock University,
St. Catharines. Contact p.carroll4@hotmail.com or cphillips4@brocku.ca.
STRATFORD TEACHERS’ COLLEGE 1966 GRADUATING CLASS 50TH
REUNION. Mon, Sept. 12, 2016, Arden Park Hotel, Stratford, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Not to be missed. Contact Stephanie (Stevie Hiller) Hunsberger,
yaya3jade@yahoo.ca, 519-888-0661.
SCHOOL REUNIONS IN OTTAWA. Special invitation to those who attended
École St-Conrad and/or Notre-Dame du Bon Conseil from ’60 – ’67: we are
planning a reunion for July 17, 2015. If interested, please send your response
before July 1 to Marcelle Chartrand, 613-837-3079, marcellechartrand@rogers.com
or Diane (Huppé) MacMillan, 613-748-1281, macnmac@rogers.com. If you contact
us, we will send you the details of that day.
TRAVEL (continued from page 48)
MAGNIFICENT EUROPE from Amsterdam to Budapest on the AmaWaterways ms Sonata Sept. 29 – Oct. 14, 2015 or port wine and flamenco from
Madrid to Lisbon and Douro River in Portugal on the AmaVida ship, April
8 – 22, 2016. Please join retired Halton teacher Joyce Poth by calling Craig
Travel 1-800-387-8890 or email cruises@craigtravel.com. TICO #149887.
ACCOMM IN VEDADO, HAVANA. Cdn standards, private, great
location, walking distance for university classes, Malecón, etc. Email
abby@abbysplacehavana.com, 416-603-9858.
HIKING ADVENTURE IN CINQUE TERRE AND AMALFI COAST. Hike
with retired Peel teacher, Sue Gurr and professional photographer, Jon Gurr,
through picturesque villages, along the scenic Italian Coast Sept. 21 – Oct.
5, 2015. Call 1-800-387-8890 or visit www.craigtravel.com. TICO #1498987.
WHISTLER, BC. A 4-season destination, stay in our recently upgraded 1 br
penthouse condo, sleeps 4. Contact krippon99@sympatico.ca.
JOIN US ON OUR ESCORTED, ALL INCLUSIVE DELUXE DANUBE
RIVER CRUISE on Aug 20, 2016 from Prague to Budapest. Attend special concerts, spend a day in Mozart’s Salzburg and the medieval Český
Krumlov and much more. I will be your host in my home city, Budapest.
Early booking bonus applies. For detailed inclusions contact Erika Gal at
erika.gal@visiontravel.ca or 905-318-0289. TICO #50018498.
Email your ad to classifieds-reunions@rto-ero.org or fax to 416-962-1061.
RATES
MAX WORD COUNT**
Classifieds Members: $2.80/word*
Non-members: $3.55/word*
50
Reunions
60
Free
2015 SUBMISSION DEADLINES***
Fall: July 13, Winter: October 15.
Please note that deadlines depend on
the number of submissions received for
the issue. Submissions are accepted
starting one month prior to the
deadline. Publication of an advertisement
does not constitute an endorsement by
RTO/ERO of any product or service.
* Plus HST. Classifieds must be paid in full upon approval prior to publication. ** Contact information is counted as one word each.
*** Ads received after the submission deadline are subject to a $10 late fee.
Political Advocacy
The Provincial Executive authorized the preparation of a strenuous
initiative regarding RTO/ERO involvement in the October federal election. A
sum of $3,000 is available to each District for this initiative and Districts have
received materials from the Provincial Office giving directions for the use of
this funding as well as materials related to: RTO/ERO’s non-partisan status,
development of local strategies, background information on areas that are
under federal government jurisdiction, and website addresses for the major
federal parties.
Member Services
aware of the needs of others and following up with acts of caring, compassion
and celebration are carried out by District/Unit Goodwill Committees.
We would like to congratulate all volunteers for reaching out to members
especially those who are unable to participate in RTO/ERO activities.
This past winter a Request for Proposal (RFP) for travel services was
developed by staff and reviewed by the committee prior to its placement in
several travel industry publications. Interviews were held in mid-April and
the Provincial Executive endorsed the committee’s recommendation that
RTO/ERO’s current preferred travel partner, Merit Travel, continue for another
three years.
Summer 2015
Project – Service to
Others Scholarship
As is its practice, the
committee has considered and
decided on some refinements
to the application form. When
these revisions are complete
the 2016 application will be on
our website for the 2015-2016
Scholarship year. There will
be plenty of time for Districts
to advertise the scholarship
program to their members
which we encourage, so that
the scholarship program
is available to all qualified
students.
49
Depuis 1968
Since 1968
300 – 18 chemin Spadina Road, Toronto, Ontario M5R 2S7
416-962-9463  •  1-800-361-9888  •  www.rto-ero.org  •  info@rto-ero.org
À votre service...pour le soin de votre avenir.
Here for you now ... Here for your future.
40014127
A Special Way ...
Claudia Mang
District 22,
Etobicoke and York
Sheila Langdown
District 11,
Waterloo
... to remember or honour family, friends
and fellow RTO/ERO members.
New
In Memory and In Honour cards
Here is a meaningful and
thoughtful way to remember
family, friends and fellow
RTO/ERO members.
Gifts made in memory
or in honour will be
acknowledged with a special
card. You may be pleased
to know that the art is new
and created by your fellow
RTO/ERO members.
And all donations support
the Foundation’s vision of
positively impacting the lives
of senior citizens in Canada.
For more information or to make a donation, please visit the
Foundation website at www.rto-ero.org/ways-give-0 (you can
donate online or download a donation form), contact your
District Foundation Representative, or call the Foundation
office at 416-962-9463 x 245 or 1-800-361-9888.
Celebrating
a milestone
birthday, special
anniversary or
other special
occasion?
Why not suggest
to friends and
family to make a
donation in your
honour?
P.S. Keep this card in your office as a handy reminder and quick reference when the need arises!
In Honour
Dear RTO/ERO Member,
Much of the advocacy work we do is focused on raising awareness of hearing loss and ensuring the very best hearing
healthcare options are available to you.
The latest results from the Canadian Health Measures Survey indicate that an astounding 47% of adults age 60-79
have hearing loss, and most of this age group have binaural loss (occurring in both ears). Perhaps the most concerning
revelation is that 70% of the surveyed respondents with hearing loss had never been diagnosed by a hearing healthcare
professional, and therefore, were unaware they had a hearing problem.1
These findings are significant and we believe they require action. That’s why we’re supporting the National Campaign
for Better Hearing – An initiative to help all Canadians get a baseline hearing test to begin annually monitoring their
hearing health. As part of this campaign, we will donate $2.00 for every hearing test we perform in order to provide
hearing aids for those who cannot afford them. Our goal is to raise over $100,000 for hearing aids this year!
As a valued RTO/ERO member, we encourage you to support this campaign by simply booking a FREE, no obligation
hearing test at your nearest participating hearing centre. ListenUP! Canada has more than 100 locations in Ontario,
and 50 partner locations across the country. As a reminder, should your test indicate that you could benefit from
wearing hearing aids, RTO/ERO members will receive the following:



SAVE 10% off all regular-priced hearing aids and earn up to 1,000 AIR MILES® reward miles.
Hearing aids come with everything you need for 3 full years – lowest price and satisfaction guaranteed.
If you already wear hearing aids, no matter where you bought them, get 3 months of batteries for FREE.
For more information, please visit CampaignForBetterHearing.org/RTO or call toll-free 1-877-371-1356 to book your
FREE, no obligation hearing test in support of the National Campaign for Better Hearing. Tell your friends and relatives
too – Together, we can make a difference!
Sincerely,
Jillian Price
Chief Audiologist, ListenUP! Canada
‒ PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS ‒
This letter is a paid insert. Hearing tests are provided free of charge for adults ages 18 and older. Some conditions may apply. Please see clinic
for details. 1 http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/82-625-x/2015001/article/14156-eng.htm
LTR-CFBH-RTO
A Collection of Longstays Winter Experiences
2016
MeritTravel.com
Great value vacations for one month or more
Arizona • texas • france • GREECE • portugal • spain • Italy • AUSTRALIA
hosted vacations, cruise & stay packages, BUCKET LIST Longstays VACATIONS
WHY
Choose Longstays VACATIONS?
Merit Longstays is a collection of vacation
experiences designed for the mature traveller
lucky enough to escape winter for a month
or longer.
Merit Longstays features packages inclusive of
airfare, transfers, condo style accommodations,
EUROPE
Longstays VACATIONS
Portugal, Algarve: With fabulous
beaches, affordable accommodation
and an average temperature of 18 C,
it’s no wonder winter-weary Canadians
love Portugal and return year after year.
All Portugal packages include:
return airfare on Air Transat I
accommodation I airport transfers I
half day excursion I services of a
local representative
cultural excursions, all taxes and fees and
in most cases, the services of a Merit Host.
In this section:
Our team of travel consultants are ready to
Alfagar Village, Albufeira, Algarve
help you plan your perfect winter escape.
Alto Da Colina, Albufeira, Algarve
Grand Santa Eulalia Apartments,
Albufeira, Algarve
Jardim Do Vau, Portimao, Algarve
2016
P ORTU GAL
Early
booking bonus!
!
BOO
KIN EARL
G Y
BONUS
Book by Aug. 31
and save $50
per person.
28
nights
FEB*
MAR*
20/11ºC 26/10ºC
Alfagar Village,
ALBUFEIRA, ALGARVE
Longstays Vacation
This year we are introducing a popular resort that enjoys a stunning
cliff top location overlooking the sea. Set in a protected area of natural beauty
made up of nine hectares of gardens and cliff top formations, the Alfagar Village
offers direct access to Santa Eulalia Beach via private steps (10 minute walk).
Guests of Alfagar Village can use the facilities of the Alfagar hotel next door.
Departs Jan. 26, 2016
Departs Mar. 1, 2016
$1,890 p.p.
$1,990 p.p.
from Toronto
• 40 minutes from Faro International airport
• direct access to the beach, on site mini supermarket
• shuttle to Albufeira (one euro each way) and free parking on site
• five minute drive from San Joao for shopping and entertainment
• one bedroom garden view unit with kitchen, cleaning three times a week
• indoor and outdoor pool, outdoor tennis court, free wifi access available
in some public areas
• half day Loule Market excursion plus services of a local representative
from Toronto
!
BOO
KIN EARL
G Y
BONUS
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Single Supplement: $900.
Seaview upgrade add $150 p.p. double occupancy or $300 p.p. single occupancy.
Additional: Tax $472. Subject to availability.
28
nights
FEB*
ALTO DA COLINA, ALBUFEIRA, ALGARVE
Longstays Vacation
This charming hilltop hotel has an unbeatable location overlooking the sea.
In the exclusive Balaia area, just 5km east from the centre of Albufeira,
it’s close to the famous casino and marina in Vilamoura. Conveniently located
near San Joao for shopping and entertainment.
$1,990 p.p.
$2,090 p.p.
from Toronto
MAR*
20/11ºC 26/10ºC
from Toronto
• direct access to famous Santa Eulalia beach via the Alfagar Village
• one bedroom land view unit with kitchen and balcony
• indoor heated pool, shuttle to Albufeira daily (1 euro each way),
cleaning five times per week, supermarket, elevator, wifi access in the lobby
• gym, sauna, steam bath (complimentary)
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Single supplement: $900.
Seaview upgrade add $150 p. p. double occupancy or $300 p.p. single occupancy.
* Average temperature
PO RT UGAL
Early
booking bonus!
!
BOO
KIN EARL
G Y
BONUS
Book by Aug 31.
and save $50
per person.
28
nights
FEB*
MAR*
20/11ºC 26/10ºC
Albufeira, Algarve
Longstays Vacation
Photo credit: Georgia Kourakos
$2,295 p.p.
$2,395 p.p.
from Toronto
This luxurious resort enjoys a stunning location with lush gardens,
spacious pool areas across from Santa Eulalia beach and just east of the
lively resort area of Albufeira in the exclusive Balaia area. You will have
access to a great range of restaurants, bars and resort amenities including
an outdoor heated pool plus a free shuttle to Albufeira!
• one bedroom apartment with kitchen, living room, and private balcony
• outdoor heated pool, restaurant and bar, cleaning one time per week
• free wifi, free use of safety box, free shuttle to Albufeira • half day Loule Market excursion plus services of a local representative
from Toronto
!
BOO
KIN EARL
G Y
BONUS
Prices are in CDN$ per person, double occupancy. Single Supplement: $1130.
28
nights
FEB*
Jardim Do Vau, Portimao, Algarve
Longstays Vacation
Set on one of the most beautiful beaches of the Algarve and with direct access
to Praia do Vau beach, and between Praia da Rocha and Alvor this beachfront
property will leave you returning year after year. Enjoy beautiful sunsets,
walks on the beach and a short walk to restaurants and shops. A Canadian
favourite
with seaview one bedroom accommodations, an indoor heated
Add a car
rental to your pool plus a complimentary shuttle to Portimao once daily!
$2,195 p.p.
$2,295 p.p.
from Toronto
MAR*
20/11ºC 26/10ºC
from Toronto
Price is in CDN$ per person double occupancy. Single supplement: $1050.
Two bedroom seaview $300 per person double occupancy. Additional: Tax $472.
*Based on Europcar Fiat Panda or similar (manual) including unlimited mileage,
full insurance, (CDW & SPLDW) airport service charge, and taxes.
CDN$ per car per week.
Portugal
vacation!
Only $300*
• one hour from Faro International airport
• beachfront, 200 metres from bus stop, 2 km from the Alto Golf Country Club,
25 km from Lagos
• one bedroom sea view apartment with kitchen and balcony
• heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, cleaning six times per week
EUROPE
Longstays VACATIONS
I TA LY
For a completely worry free experience,
our tours are hosted by dedicated and
experienced travel professionals who
have in depth destination knowledge.
All hosted packages include:
return air I accommodation I
cultural excursions I english
speaking guide I Merit Tour Host I
gratuities
Tuscany, Italy: Experience the “Dolce Vita” in Italy and
discover the towns and countryside of this richly picturesque
and culinary provocative region of Italy. The wine of Tuscany’s
Chianti region is famous around the globe. Tuscany’s capital,
Florence is a great art center that remains closely linked to
its medieval past.
In this section:
Italy, Tuscany/Rome
Italy + Cruise, Tuscany/Rome/
Mediterranean Cruise
Adagio Access, Nice, French Riviera
Hipark Residences, Nice, French Riviera
Photo credits: Cindy Taylor
Photo credits: Cindy Taylor
I TA LY
Photo credit: Cindy Taylor
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
25
nights
FEB*
12/3ºC
MAR*
15/4ºC
LongstayS Vacation
Live your dream in the beautiful Tuscan region as you explore the rich history
and traditions of Italy. Spend three nights in Rome and visit the famous Vatican
Museum and Sistine Chapel. Continue to Tuscany for 22 nights in your apartment
set on the hillside with wonderful views of olive groves, vineyards and the
countryside, only 33 km from Florence. Explore the local culture and charming
historic towns of Siena and Pisa. Learn to cook dishes by discovering regional
secrets from a local chef. Enjoy a wine tasting and cooking class in San Gimignano.
• Rome: three nights at the Visconti Palace Hotel w/breakfast, Vatican & Rome tour
• Tuscany: 22 nights at the Borgo Artimino with breakfast daily
• units include one bedroom, kitchen, living room, and wifi access
• five excursions to Florence, Pisa, Siena, wine tasting and lunch in Chianti,
cooking class in San Gimignano
• all transfers, service fees, and gratuities included
$4,790 p.p.
from Toronto
Upgrade to two bedroom: $200 p.p., double occupancy or $150 p.p.,
triple occupancy. Quad occupancy rate: $4,590 per person. Additional: Tax $650.
30
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
Hosted Tuscany, Italy
nights
FEB*
12/3ºC
$5,795 p.p.
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy, based on category IC interior
stateroom. Additional: Tax $750. Single supplement: $3300. Upgrade to
2 bedroom: $200 p.p., double occupancy. Upgrade to category BC balcony
stateroom add $750 p.p.
MAR*
15/4ºC
Gratuities
included
onboard
cruise!
Hosted Tuscany, Italy
Longstays Vacation & Mediterranean Cruise
Book early
to receive special
amenities onboard
the cruise! Limited
availability.
We invite you to live the “Dolce Vita in Italy” as you explore the
beautiful Tuscan region. Start with three nights in Rome and visit the Vatican
Museum. Spend 20 nights in Tuscany near Florence overlooking the medieval
hamlet of Artimino surrounded by rolling hills ancient olive groves and vineyards.
Discover the regional secrets of the Tuscan cuisine from a professional chef and
participate in a cooking class in San Gimignano. Then embark on a seven night
Mediterranean Cruise aboard the Norwegian Epic departing from Civitavecchia,
Rome and calling upon Florence, Cannes, Palma Majorca, Palermo and Naples!
• Rome: three nights at the Visconti Palace Hotel w/breakfast, Vatican & Rome tour
• Tuscany: 20 nights at the Borgo Artimino with breakfast daily
• Mediterranean Cruise: seven nights cruise onboard Norwegian Epic
with meals
• five excursions to Florence, Pisa, Siena, Chianti & San Gimignano
French R iviera
French riviera: Enjoy a glamorous Mediterranean vacation in Nice. Situated in a magnificent
bay, the capital of the Côte d’Azur stretches along the famous Promenade des Anglais facing
the Mediterranean. With its lively old town, elegant Belle Époque district and bustling port area,
Nice is a city of many facets. Its museums house the richest collections of French modern and
contemporary art outside Paris and not to be missed is a visit to the Marc Chagall Museum as
well as the Matisse Museum.
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
28
nights
FEB*
14/6ºC
MAR*
16/8ºC
Adagio Access, Nice
HOSTED Longstays Vacation
With a prime location close to the Promenade des Anglais and the
Bay of Angels. These apartments have air conditioned and inviting
living areas, and located just a stone’s throw from shopping streets
and restaurants.
• 28 nights at the Adagio Access Nice Magnan Aparthotel
• studio apartment with fully equipped kitchen
• complimentary wifi in your room
• safety deposit box, swimming pool
• four cultural excursions: Antibes, Cannes, Monaco,
and St Paul de Vence
• Merit Tour Host & transfers
Departs Feb. 29, 2016
$2,995 p.p. Studio Suite
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Upgrade to a one bedroom
suite: $400. Additional: Tax $650. Subject to availability.
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
28
nights
FEB*
14/6ºC
MAR*
16/8ºC
from Toronto
Price is in CDN$ p.p, double occupancy. Single Supplement: $1300.
Upgrade to a one bedroom suite: $350. Additional: Tax $650.
Hipark Residences, Nice
HOSTED Longstays Vacation
Stay for a month in a modern and upscale residence with a prime
location in the heart of the Acropolis quarter and just a five minute walk
from the train station. Enjoy complimentary use of the fitness room
and sauna for your relaxation. Explore the local attractions along with
your tour host and enjoy fabulous excursions to nearby Antibes,
Cannes, Monaco, St Paul de Vence!
• 28 nights at Hipark Residence in a studio suite with modern kitchen
• full continental buffet breakfast daily, housekeeping once per week
• complimentary use of the fitness room and sauna, wifi in your room,
supermarket and shopping mall across the street
• bars, restaurants, five minute walk from Nice-Riquier train station,
1.5 km from Nice’s Old town
• four cultural excursions: Antibes, Cannes, Monaco, and St. Paul de Vence
• Merit Tour Host & transfers
EUROPE
Longstays VACATIONS
COSTA DEL SOL, Spain: Discover beautiful
landscapes, a rich cultural heritage,
fabulous beaches, coastal sites, and
charming villages in Costa del Sol.
This stretch of Malaga coastline boasts
an average of 300 sunny days per year
and is a great base for nearby cultural
excursions to Seville, Cordoba, Nerja,
Gilbraltar, Mijas and Malaga.
COSTA DEL SOL, Spain and ALGARVE,
Portugal: Discover the best of Spain and
Portugal. From sun drenched beaches,
medieval hilltop towns, fascinating culture
and architectural treasures, these two
countries offer endless possibilities.
In this section:
Ecuador Park Apartments,
Costa Del Sol, Spain
Hotel Melia, Costa Del Sol, Spain +
Algarve, Portugal
Hotel Melia, Costa Del Sol, Spain +
Cruise + Barcelona, Spain
C osta D el S ol
& ALGARVE
PO RT UGAL
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
28
nights
FEB*
15/6ºC
MAR*
17/8ºC
Longstays Vacation & overnight Stay at Parador Hotel
New this year by popular demand spend a month discovering the Costa Del Sol
area at the charming Ecuador Park Apartments located 300 meters from the
charming harbor of Benalmadena and a short walk to the beach and restaurants!
Explore the local area with your tour host and join seven cultural excursions
included with your package. For a unique experience not to be missed you will
travel to Ronda and stay overnight at a luxury Parador Hotel!
• Costa del Sol: 28 nights at the Ecuador Park Apartments including an overnight luxury stay at Parador Hotel in Ronda with welcome dinner
• five full day excursions to Granada, Cordoba, Gilbraltar, Nerja and Ronda w/lunch
• two half day excursions to Malaga w/Tapas dinner, Flamenco show w/dinner
• one bedroom, kitchen, living room, balcony, housekeeping three times per
week, and wifi
• walk to the charming harbor of Benalmadena, the beach, bars and restaurants
• all transfers, service fees, and gratuities included.
$3,695 p.p.
from Toronto
Additional: Tax $650. Add-ons available from various Canadian gateways,
please enquire.
30
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
Hosted COSTA DEL SOL, Spain
nights
FEB*
15/6ºC
$5,495 p.p.
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Hotel Melia Costa Del Sol
and Grand Santa Eulalia apartments with half board meal plan.
Single supplement $1990. Additional: Tax $650. Add-ons available
from various Canadian gateways, please enquire.
MAR*
17/8ºC
Hosted COSTA DEL SOL & ALGARVE
Longstays Vacation
Your hosted Mediterranean vacation starts with 14 nights in Costa del Sol in a
luxury beachfront hotel with breakfast and dinner daily. Then transfer to Portugal
for 14 nights at a deluxe beachside apartment resort, a hidden gem in Albufeira
in the Algarve. Enjoy the beaches, whitewashed villages and stunning seascapes.
End your stay with two nights in Lisbon one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.
• Costa Del Sol: 14 nights at the Hotel Melia Costa Del Sol with two meals daily
• four full day excursions to Granada, Cordoba, Gilbraltar and Nerja with lunch
• two half day excursions to Malaga w/Tapas dinner, Flamenco show w/dinner
• Algarve: 14 nights at the Grand Santa Eulalia Apartments with two meals daily
• units include one bedroom with kitchen, free wifi, outdoor heated pool
• two excursions to Moorish Heritage include wine tasting and Loule market
• Lisbon: two nights at the Hotel Mundial with breakfast and Sintra excursion
with Lisbon city tour
C osta D el S ol
& CRUISE
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
25
nights
FEB*
15/6ºC
$5,495 p.p.
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Hotel Melia with half board
meal plan, 10 night NCL cruise based on inside stateroom category IC,
including meals onboard plus transfers. Additional: Tax and Port Fees $750.
Single supplement: $2100. Upgrade to balcony stateroom category BB
or similar add $700. Subject to availability.
MAR*
17/8ºC
Gratuities
included
onboard
cruise!
Hosted Costa del Sol
Book early
to receive special
amenities onboard
the cruise! Limited
availability.
Longstays Vacation & Mediterranean Cruise
A classic favourite this complete hosted vacation starts with
13 nights in Costa del Sol in your marvelous beachfront hotel with
breakfast and dinner included daily. Located just a short walk from
the charming harbor of Benalmadena where you can explore the
gorgeous beaches and local culture. Then embark on a 10 nights
NCL Cruise sailing from Barcelona to the Canary Islands and Morocco.
End your tour with two nights in Barcelona with an artistic tour,
a visit to the Sagrada Familia plus a tour to Montserrat.
• Costa Del Sol: 13 nights at the Hotel Melia Costa Del Sol with
two meals daily
• four full day excursions to Granada, Cordoba, Gilbraltar and Nerja
with lunch
• two half day excursions to Malaga with Tapas dinner, Flamenco
show and Mijas with dinner
• NCL Cruise: 10 nights onboard Norwegian Epic with meals on board
• Barcelona: two nights at the H10 Casanova Hotel with breakfast,
one welcome dinner, half day artistic tour, and half day Montserrat
tour with lunch
• all transfers and gratuities
• Merit Tour Host
USA
Longstays VACATIONS
USA
Stay for a month in well appointed
condos in popular sun destinations and
explore the local culture and attractions.
return air I accommodation I transfers I
Merit Tour Host
In this section:
San Antonio and Galveston
Hosted Longstays & Cruise Vacation
Arizona, Mesa
Hosted Longstays Vacation
Texas - San Antonio and Galveston Island: Explore San
Antonio and the famous Riverwalk providing scenic pathways
and waterways for the city’s cultural and historic sites.
Then continue to Galveston Island which boasts 32 miles
of pristine Gulf Beaches, famous 19th century architecture,
excellent medical facilities, and a vibrant historic downtown!
US A
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
34
nights
FEB*
MAR*
23/10ºC 28/15ºC
Gratuities
included
onboard
cruise!
$4,695 p.p.
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Cruise interior stateroom category M
including meals onboard plus transfers. Additional: Tax and Port Fees $750.
Upgrade to outside stateroom: category I or similar add $220. Upgrade to
balcony stateroom category E2 or similar add $600. Subject to availability.
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
30
nights
FEB*
MAR*
23/10ºC 28/15ºC
Hosted San Antonio & Galveston
Longstays Vacation & CARIBBEAN Cruise
Spend 14 nights in the heart of the world famous San Antonio Riverwalk near
restaurants shops and attractions like the Alamo which houses exhibits on the
Texas Revolution and Texas History. Continue to Galveston Island at your ocean
view condo nestled along the fabulous seawall offering spectacular gulf views
and then embark on a seven night RCI Western Caribbean Cruise calling upon
Jamaica, Grand Cayman & Cozumel Mexico.
• San Antonio: 13 nights at the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel. Includes daily breakfast, wifi, welcome reception & excursion to Alamo with city sightseeing tour
• Galveston Island: 14 nights at the Casa Del Mar Condominiums in a
one bedroom unit with gulf view, kitchen, balcony and wifi
• RCI Western Caribbean Cruise: seven nights on board Liberty of the Seas
with meals
• Galveston Island city tour
• airport and cruise ship transfers
Hosted Mesa, Arizona
Longstays Vacation
Enjoy a month of Arizona warmth and sunshine in your studio suite where
shopping, dining and golf are all within walking distance.
• 30 nights in a studio suite with fully equipped kitchen
• complimentary deluxe continental breakfast daily
• three complimentary social evenings with food and beverages included
each week
• complimentary fitness facility, gas grill, large pool and hot tub
• complimentary grocery shopping service
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Additional: Tax $260.
Upgrade to one bedroom: $275.
Caribbean
Longstays VACATIONS
B arbados
BARBADOS HOSTED Longstays VACATION:
Life didn’t begin in Barbados - it was just
perfected here! Every day in Barbados is
a celebration - a spectacle of living!
With each Barbadian playing their part to
perfection. You can hear it in their voice,
see it in their smiles and feel it in their
music. It’s a passion that emanates across
this small Caribbean paradise, welcoming
all to Love Live Life. Barbados... a magical
destination to escape winter.
28
nights
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
return air I accommodation I transfers I
Merit Tour Host
FEB*
MAR*
29/23ºC 29/22ºC
In this section:
Bridgetown, Barbados
Hosted Longstays
$3,850 p.p. One Bedroom Suite
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy. Additional: Tax $300.
Hosted Bridgetown, Barbados
Longstays Vacation
This charming and intimate property located in the heart of the west coast
of Barbados. It’s excellent location will make for an unforgettable getaway.
Halcyon Palm Apartments include full kitchen, living/dining area,
one bedroom with twin beds, and balconies overlooking the pool and gardens.
• return air from Toronto to Bridgetown, Barbados
• 28 nights in a one bedroom apartment with fully equipped kitchen
• two excursions including Harrison Caves, Flower Forest and Wildlife Reserve
• air conditioning in bedrooms, ceiling fans in other rooms
• pool
• daily housekeeping
Visit our website at MeritTravel.com for additional Longstays programs in Florida and Arizona.
One month packages with exceptional value pricing.
BUCKET
LIST
Longstays VACATIONS
For the experience of a lifetime our
bucket list trips are extraordinary journeys
to richly picturesque destinations with a
combination of history, culture, land tours
and a luxury cruise that will provide you
with a lifetime of memories.
GREECE: Discover the magic of Greece from the mountains to
the sea - from noble Athens, once home to Plato’s Academy
and Aristotle’s Lyceum, to the picturesque islands with their
remains of archaic architecture, around every corner on this
fascinating Greek experience you will be walking on the
paths of the ancients yet pursuing your own Greek odyssey.
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
return air I accommodation I cruise I
cultural excursions I english speaking guide I
Merit Tour Host I gratuities
GREECE & CRUISE
27
nights
MAR*
15/7ºC
In this section:
$5,995 p.p.
Greece
Longstays & Cruise Vacation
Australia and New Zealand
Longstays & Cruise Vacation
FEB*
13/5ºC
Gratuities
included
onboard
cruise!
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy.
Additional: Tax $1200. Single supplement: $3800 based
on interior category N stateroom or similar. Upgrade
to category H outside stateroom or similar $1200.
category BC balcony stateroom or similar $2400.
Hosted Greece
Longstays with Grand Mediterranean Cruise
Spend 14 nights in a sophisticated seaside area in Mati, Attica just 26 km from
the centre of Athens. Explore Athens on a city tour that passes Constitution
Square and Panathenaic Stadium - home of the first modern Olympic Games.
Visit the famous Acropolis of Athens on foot, and discover famous monuments
including the Panthenon. Drive to Ancient Delphi and Meteora, two legendary
UNESCO World Heritage sites for an overnight stay. Then embark on an
unforgettable 12 night Holland America Grand Mediterranean Voyage Cruise
sailing from Athens, Greece to the Greek Islands, and Turkey and ending in
Venice, Italy. Your amazing journey ends with an overnight in the gorgeous
city of Venice with its famous canals!
• Greece: 14 nights at the Hotel Aquamarina with buffet breakfast and dinner daily plus three excursions: Athens city tour with the new Acropolis Museum,
overnight Delphi and Meteora, Nauplion and Argolis tour
• side seaview room, complimentary indoor heated pool and wifi access
• Holland America Grand Voyage Cruise: 12 nights on board MS. Prinsendam
with meals
• overnight in Venice with breakfast
• Merit Tour Host
A ustrali A ,
N ew Zealand & C R U I S E
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia: Host of the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the Gold Coast is
the ultimate dream destination for Canadian snowbirds. From the glamour of Surfers Paradise,
to wildlife sanctuaries, over 57 kilometres of sandy beaches, championship golf courses and
rainforest wonderlands, there is a new adventure waiting for you in the Gold Coast!
Ho Fu
st lly
ed
30
nights
FEB*
MAR*
27/20ºC 25/18ºC
$7,995 p.p.
from Toronto
Prices are in CDN$ p.p., double occupancy, based on category L interior
stateroom or similar. Additional: Tax $1495. Single supplement: $3400.
Upgrade to category F outside stateroom or similar $650. Upgrade to
category VD balcony stateroom $1700.
Hosted Australia
& New Zealand
Longstays and Cruise Vacation
Gratuities
included
onboard
cruise!
We invite you to on this bucket list trip to Australia and New Zealand!
Your unforgettable adventure starts with 13 nights in the Gold Coast
in your beachfront apartment in the centre of Surfers Paradise!
Then fly from Brisbane to Sydney, Australia for an overnight stay.
Then embark on a luxurious 14 night Australia and New Zealand
Cruise aboard Holland America’s MS. Noordam sailing from Sydney,
Australia to Auckland, New Zealand! Your amazing journey ends
with two nights in Auckland, New Zealand, a city of natural wonders
and stunning coastlines!
• Australia’s Gold Coast: 13 nights at Mantra Sun City Apartments
• beachfront apartment in the heart of Surfers Paradise
• four excursions including Gold Coast Excursion, Tamborine Glow
Warm Caves tour, O’Reilly’s & Lamington National Park with
lunch and Aqua Duck Safari
• Sydney: Overnight at the Grace Hotel with breakfast and city tour,
one welcome dinner
• Australia/New Zealand Cruise: 14 nights onboard MS. Noordam
with meals
• Auckland: two nights at the Rydges Auckland Hotel with breakfast,
one dinner cruise and full day city tour
• Merit Tour Host
Start planning your next Longstays Vacation
Merit Travel Victoria
250.477.0131 I Victoria@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Winnipeg
204.269.9530 I Winnipeg@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Toronto
416.345.9726 I Toronto@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel University of Victoria
250.405.5888 I UVic@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel London
519.472.2700 I London@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel York University
416.661.0661 I York@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel University of British Columbia
604.822.2426 I UBC@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Peterborough
705.743.1635 I Peterborough@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel University of Ottawa
613.238.8222 I OttawaU@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Vancouver
604.659.2887 I Vancouver@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Kingston
613.549.3553 I Kingston@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Ottawa
613.724.6206 I Ottawa@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Edmonton
780.439.3096 I Edmonton@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Kingston Groups
613.549.3342 I KingstonGroups@MeritTravel.com
Voyages Merit Montreal
514.843.8511 I Montreal@VoyagesMerit.com
Merit Travel University of Calgary
403.282.7687 I UCalgary@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Brockville
613.342.1412 I Brockville@MeritTravel.com
Voyages Merit Sherbrooke
819.346.0422 I Sherbrooke@VoyagesMerit.com
Merit Travel Calgary Groups
403.282.7687 I CalgaryGroups@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Sudbury
705.564.9990 I Sudbury@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Halifax
902.482.8000 I Halifax@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Calgary
403.262.6632 I Calgary@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Newmarket
905.895.3331 I Newmarket@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel St. John’s
709.737.7926 I StJohns@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Saskatoon
306.975.3722 I Saskatoon@MeritTravel.com
Merit Travel Waterloo
519.886.0400 I Waterloo@MeritTravel.com
Find a Travel Expert near you or visit:
MeritTravel.com/meet-the-experts/
Merit Travel | 1.866.341.1777 | MeritTravel.com/Longstays
ON-4499356/4499372 | BC-34799 | 111 Peter Street, Suite 200, Toronto M5V 2H1

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