District 34 - York Region Vol. 31 No. 1 - January 2019 - Photo of Ms. Irwin by Chris Prefontaine - Cover by Rhonda Starr - RTO?ERO District 34
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District 34 - York Region Vol. 31 No. 1 - January 2019
Photo of Ms. Irwin by Chris Prefontaine - Cover by Rhonda Starr
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.com
Page 2 34th STORY
For Your Calendar
Play Bridge Kiss Of The Spider
Mondays Woman
1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fri. March 1, 2019 and
McConaghy Senior Sun. March 3, 2019
Centre - Rm. 103
RTO Art Show
Hava Java March 5 to 23, 2019
Wed. Jan. 16, 2019
Fri. Jan. 18, 2019
Gondoliers
Sat. March 16, 2019 and
Join Us For A Walk Sat. March 23, 2019
Wed. Jan. 23, 2019
Join Us For A Walk
Lunch and Trivia Wed. March 20, 2019
Tues. Jan. 29, 2019
Hava Java
Nature’s Classroom Walk Thurs. March 21, 2019
Wed. Feb. 6, 2019
Retirement Planning
The Mousetrap Tues. March 26, 2019
Wed. Feb. 13, 2019
Mending Fences
Hava Java Wed. April 10, 2019
Thurs. Feb. 14, 2019
York Symphony
Join Us For A Walk Sun. April 14, 2019
Wed. Feb. 20, 2019
Hava Java
Beauty And The Beast Wed. April 17, 2019
Sun. Feb. 24, 2019
Skin Flick
Wed. May 1, 2019
“Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 3
Contents
For Your Calendar.............................................................................................2
District 34 York Region Executive and Committee Chairpersons................................ 4
President’s Message..........................................................................................5
Hava Java On Us...............................................................................................6
Don’t Miss Out and Join Us For A Walk..........................................................7
Bridge Club News and Old Age Security Clawback........................................8
Distinguished Member Award and Last Call For Artists..................................9
Annual Open House Fun.................................................................................10
Acceptance Guaranteed and Lunch and Trivia at Villa Risi...........................12
RTO/ERO Scholarships..................................................................................13
Important Documents......................................................................................14
Pension Update and Nature’s Classroom Winter Walk...................................15
Project Service To Others Grant Recipients...................................................16
Proposed Event Registration Amendments.....................................................16
District 34 Fall Luncheon...............................................................................18
RTO/ERO’s Health And Wellness Website.....................................................20
Boost Your Well-Being...................................................................................20
The Mousetrap................................................................................................21
Registration for RTO District 34 York Region Events...................................22
Disney’s Beauty And The Beast ....................................................................23
The Negative Effects Of Social Isolation.......................................................24
Meet District 34 Member: Bonnie Irwin........................................................26
Kiss Of The Spider Woman............................................................................31
Eating For Brain Health..................................................................................32
Tuna And Tomato Pasta..................................................................................35
District 34 Artisans’ Marketplace...................................................................36
Welcome New Members.................................................................................38
In Memoriam..................................................................................................39
Art Show.........................................................................................................40
Gondoliers.......................................................................................................41
Retirement Planning Workshop......................................................................42
Mending Fences and York Symphony Orchestra............................................43
Discounted Tickets To Skin Flick...................................................................44
Social Isolation Grant.....................................................................................45
Save The Date and Tuscany Trip....................................................................46
Acknowledgement, Waiver and Release.........................................................48
Registration for RTO District 34 York Region Events...................................49
Finding Us and Changing Your Address...............................................50 & 51
Join us on the internet at www.34thstory.com
Page 4 34th STORY
District 34 York Executive Member
Region Executive Craig Lee..................... 905-884-4957
and Committee c.m.lee@sympatico.ca
Chairpersons Benefits Representative
2018- 2019 Susan Leppington ......905-235-4225
President, Constitution Chair susanleppington@rogers.com
and Archivist
Lynn Hitsman ............905-294-6717 Goodwill Representative
lynn.hitsman@sympatico.ca Betty Tobin.................. 905-884-8958
bettytobin75@hotmail.com
Past President
Susan Phillips������������� 905-859-4583 Membership Recruitment
susancphillips@gmail.com John Pickett.................647-273-0790
john.pickett@rogers.com
First Vice-President
Jose Fernandes............905-989-1377 Newsletter Editor
jose.fernandes@rogers.com Chris Prefontaine.........905-471-4624
7chris.prefontaine@gmail.com
Second Vice-President and
Project Service to Others Rep Pension and Retirement Rep.
Regine Baker�������������� 416-293-3514 Pat MacMillan............. 905-773-0916
reginebaker@rogers.com patmacmillan@sympatico.ca
Secretary and Political Advocacy and
Email Communication Rep Foundation Rep.
Angela Stewart...........905-471-3706 Elaine Adam................905-898-6050
34thstoryreminders@gmail.com feats@rogers.com
Treasurer Social Convenor
George McKelvey.......905-294-1935 Ernie Polsoni .............905-773-5814
mckelvey@rogers.com ernpol@yahoo.ca
Membership Coordinator Webmaster
Evelyn Lawrence........905-642-5435 Grant Dale...................905-508-8164
eplawrence@sympatico.ca gdale@sympatico.ca
Executive Member
Ann Evans...................905-830-0407
annlesleyevans1945@gmail.com
“Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 5
Branding is seen as a promise of
what to expect from a business,
organization or corporation or
the ideals for which the business
stands. It is often makes a
company recognizable by its tag
line: “Just Do It”. The provision
of quality, affordable health
insurance will always be the
primary goal of the organization,
Lynn Hitsman, President but in order to gain more
President’s Message members from retirees who have
T
his past October, I been involved in education, we
attended the RTO/ERO must build a brand that is reliable,
Senate meeting. Many clear and understood.
interesting points were raised. I
wish to share a few with you. There was discussion of Federal
Bill C 27 – Pension Reform.
RTO/ERO has set three strategic Although it is sitting on a shelf
goals for this year: at the moment, after an election
-recognition of RTO/ERO as next fall, it might get dusted
trusted voice of senior citizens; off. While this bill is related to
-improving the lives of seniors; federal employees’ pensions, it is
and significant because changes made
-broadening the membership base federally could be considered
of RTO/ERO. provincially which would affect
our pensions. We have defined
Each of these three goals is aimed benefit pensions from OTPP, but
at our current membership, but a provincial version of Bill C27
realizes that we are only part of would change that. More will be
the retired population in Ontario published in a later newsletter.
and in Canada.
There were several presentations
There was a great deal of on the topic of Age Friendliness.
discussion and sharing of ideas on The principles need to be
how to “brand” RTO/ERO. understood, funded and
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.com
Page 6 34th STORY
implemented at municipal, of District 34. Members,spouses
provincial and federal levels and partners are all welcome.
of government. They include
making park benches with Check the dates and locations
listed below and put them on
armrests for each seat so that
your calendar. Since this is one
elderly people can stand up with
of our costliest activities, we ask
support; changing the timing
that members limit themselves
of crossing lights to enable
to regular coffee or tea plus one
people using assistive devices to
treat. Those who want specialty
cross the street safely or having coffees, more treats or breakfast
social worker/paramedics who are asked to pay for these items
investigate senior citizens’ themselves.
repeated calls to 911 to help
organize medication, social We look forward to seeing many
interaction or perhaps other of you there.
housing arrangements. There
is a whole world of situations Dates:
that needs consideration for our Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019 for
society as the 65 year plus age the Aurora location only (Note:
group moves forward. “We are This is a change from what was
the Silver Triumph”, said one previously advertised)
presenter. I agree. Friday, Jan. 18, 2019 for the
Maple and Markham locations
Best wishes for health and
happiness in 2019. The remaining dates are for all
locations:
Hava Java On Us Thursday, Feb. 14, 2019
By Regine Baker Thursday, March 21, 2019
W
hat a great way to Wednesday, April 17, 2019
spend a morning,
chatting with friends Time: 10 a.m. to Noon at all
and former colleagues while locations
enjoying a cup of coffee or tea
along with a donut, muffin, or Locations:
The Old Curiosity Tea Shop
danish, etc. What makes it even
91 Main Street, Markham
better is that it is all compliments
“Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 7
(Parking on Main Street, behind Join Us For A Walk
the tea shop or in the lot on the By Ann Evans
W
corner of Robinson and Main St.
Coffee Culture Café & Eatery inter is here! This
10037 Keele Street, Maple (east should not deter us
side, north of Major Mackenzie from enjoying our
Drive, parking in front or back) monthly walks and lively chats.
Dress warmly and join us.
Longos, upstairs in The Loft
To avoid unfavourable walking
650 Wellington Street East,
conditions in the winter, we will
Aurora (west of Bayview
confine ourselves to the north
Ave.; parking in front; elevator
available) and south trails of Fairy Lake, in
Newmarket as they are always
well maintained.
Don’t Miss Out
By Angela Stewart
R
TO – District 34 publishes
Dates:
a newsletter three times a
Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019
year and it is full of many
Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019
fun and interesting events.
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
We know that retirement is a busy
time and it’s hard to keep track of Parking is at the main entrance
everything, so don’t miss out on of Fairy Lake, 500 Water Street,
reminders, and special notices. Newmarket. (just east of the
south end of Main Street.
If you would like to keep
informed of all the wonderful The days may vary but we will
events that District 34 offer, in always start at 10 a.m. As usual,
the form of a monthly email, afterwards we will warm up with
please contact Angela at: a cup of steaming coffee.
34thstoryreminders@gmail.com
Join us on the internet at www.34thstory.com
Page 8 34th STORY
Bridge Club News Barney Matisko & Bev Suzuki
By Joan Burrows (6NT)
T
he RTO/ERO bridge group Mary Conte & Doreen Bell
has begun its fall season. (6NT)
Members and guests are Please come out and join the
invited to come on a drop in basis fun for the next winter round of
and play social bridge for just bridge playing!
$2. We meet every Monday from
1 to 4 p.m. at the McConachy
Centre (Dining Room #103)
10100 Yonge St. in Richmond Old Age Security
Hill. There is free parking at the
rear of the building.
Clawback
By The Pension and Retirement
Concerns Committee
I
Here are some of the great games n the September 2018
and players since September: Liaison Report, the Pension
Margo Procyk & Peggy Paterson and Retirement Concerns
(6S) Committee informed us that
under Canada’s public pension
Marg Lawlor & Joan Burrows bid
plan system, OAS pension
6 D made 7!
recipients with an expected net
Bob Bell & Linda Karan bid 6H income of more than $75,910
made 7! in the current tax year have to
Joan Burrows & Lorraine Oyama pay back part or all of the OAS
(6H) pensions through an automated
Darlene McCowan & Marg Law- monthly recovery. This amount is
lor (6H) based on the net amount you have
reported when filing your income
Doreen Bell & Marilyn Johnson tax in the previous year. The claw
bid 6NT made 7! back is 15% or any amount over
Darlene McCowan & Linda $79,910.
Karan (6D)
The net amount also includes
Marg Lawlor & Kathy Bunker CPP, OAS, the cashing of RSPs
(6S) and any other income. It can also
“Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 9
be influenced if you income split District 34 Second Vice President
your pension with your spouse. by the end of March.
The full OAS is clawed back
when your net income is greater The Executive will examine all
than $122 843. submissions and determine the
winner(s). For 2019, submissions
As of 2019 the basic OAS is may be sent to
$586.66 a month. reginebaker@rogers.com
RTO District 34 Last Call For
Distinguished Artists
Member Award
S
By Ann Evans
By Regine Baker hare your artistic talents -
T
his award is given to you got ‘em; flaunt ‘em.
District 34 members, Artists: We know you
not currently serving are out there! This is your last
on the District 34 executive, in call to indicate your intention
recognition of their outstanding to participate in the Spring Art
or long-term contributions to the Show.
work of RTO/ERO at the District
level. Dates:
Each year up to two winners March 5 through March 23, 2019
of this award will be invited
to attend the District 34 May Location:
Luncheon at District 34’s Old Town Hall
expense to receive a plaque and 460 Botsford St.
be recognized by their colleagues. Newmarket, ON
To be eligible for this award a Please contact Ann Evans at
candidate must be nominated by annlesleyevans1945@gmail.com
a fellow member. The nominator if you are interested. The deadline
will submit an outline of the to apply is January 15, 2019.
candidate’s contributions and More details will be sent to you
other relevant information to the once you submit your name.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 10 34th STORY
Annual Open House Fun
Photography By Grant Dale
District 34 members shared in good food, fun prizes and great
conversations on Tuesday, September 25 at our annual Open House!
T
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 11
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 12 34th STORY
Acceptance In response, we are offering a
permanent opportunity for RTIP
Guaranteed
M
4000 policyholders to switch
embers of the RTIP
to our plan, with guaranteed
4000 plan can now join
acceptance.
our health plans with
guaranteed acceptance.
It’s also important to note that
Those insured in the RTIP Gold new members who join RTO/
750 or 2500 plans are also ERO now will enjoy free
invited to make the switch, but membership until Dec. 31, 2019.
will need to complete a health If you have friends who have
questionnaire to qualify. opted to join RTIP 4000 and want
to switch to RTO/ERO, please
In 2016, many RTIP encourage them to phone:
policyholders contacted us for 1-800-361-9888 or 416-962-9463
help because their premiums had
increased dramatically or they
had lost benefits. In keeping with
our mission of improving the
Lunch and Trivia at
lives of our members and seniors, Villa Risi
By Elaine Adam
J
we took the extraordinary step
of temporarily allowing RTIP oin us for our seventh annual
policyholders to switch with Lunch and Trivia, again
guaranteed acceptance. at Villa Risi Ristorante in
Newmarket. Please choose from
We continue to receive numerous these two luncheon choices:
calls from concerned education
retirees, asking to switch from Chicken with mushroom and
RTIP 4000 to our plan. Many onions in white wine sauce and a
of these calls are prompted by a side dish of pasta
noticeable decline in the RTIP OR
customer service and increased Eggplant Parmigiana with a side
costs, despite decreases to dish of pasta.
coverage.
Coffee and tea will be provided
and the restaurant has a fully
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 13
licensed bar; juice and pop Make your cheque out to RTO/
may also be purchased. (You ERO District 34 and send with
may want to circle your order your registration form (pp. 22 or
selection and keep this page for 49) to:
your records.) Be aware that the Elaine Adam
orders are given at the end of the 183 Park Avenue
day on Thursday, January 24 so Newmarket, ON L3Y 1T9
you will not be reimbursed after
that date if you are not able to Please register before January
attend. You are welcome to send 24; remembering to indicate your
someone in your place. choice of meal on the registration
form. Also, indicate whether you
There will be a Trivia contest have a team or wish to be placed
après lunch, with teams of up on one. Come out and try your
to four members each. You are gray matter!
welcome to organize your own
team or we can place you on one.
RTO/ERO
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019
Scholarships
By Regine Baker
E
Time: Noon
ach year RTO/ERO offers
Location: Villa Risi Ristorante up to 25 scholarships of
16995 Yonge Street $1,500 each to relatives
Newmarket of RTO/ERO members who
It is on the east side of Yonge, are currently enrolled in their
south of Eagle. There is final year or semester of a post-
construction right in front of secondary school programme at
the entrance to the parking lot. a university, college or training
Parking is in front and you may school. Applications for this,
park from the Midas shop to the available on the RTO/ERO
north to the gas station to the website, must be completed by
south. the student and submitted to
RTO/ERO by the February 5,
Cost: $22 includes lunch, taxes, 2019 deadline.
tip and money for prizes.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 14 34th STORY
Important b) Will;
c) Birth Certificate;
Documents d) Marriage Certificate;
By Chris Prefontaine
I
e) Adoption Papers
f something unexpected (if applicable);
happened would your family f) Citizenship Papers
members know where to (if applicable);
find your important papers? g) Prenuptial Agreement
Important documents should be (if applicable);
kept in a safe place, in case of h) Social Insurance Card;
fire or theft. These include: a i) Government Health Card;
list of house, cottage and other j) Bank Accounts;
property contents, receipts of k) Safety Deposit Box & Key;
proof of purchase/ownership, and l) Credit Cards & Numbers;
photographs of each room. m) Investments Information /
Certificates;
RTO recommends you ensure
n) Pension Information;
that a copy of your important
o) Health Insurance Information;
documents, including a record
p) Home and Vehicle
of your important data and
ownership(s);
itemized information, are readily
q) Jewelry, valuables, heirlooms;
available to your lawyer and to
r) Pre-arranged funeral
your executor. Some banks and
agreement;
insurance companies publish
s) Ownership of cemetery plot;
booklets, which help to keep
t) Memorial receipt &
records of important papers and
description; and
their location. Some booklets
u) Organ Donation Information.
are available which help to keep
household inventories by listing
For more information or to
items usually found in various
download the fillable Important
rooms of the house.
Documents Fact Sheet visit the
RTO website:
Your spouse/family should know
https://www.rto-ero.org/
the location of:
publications and click on
a) Power of Attorney (Personal
Important Documents.
care & Property);
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 15
Pension Update It will be fun to explore the
Your 2019 Inflation Adjustment forest on snowshoes and learn
about their origin and cultural
T
he annual cost-of-living significance. Snowshoes have
adjustment for 2019 is become smaller and therefore
2.2%. and will take effect less cumbersome, so easier to
in January 2019. use! If snowshoeing does not
appeal then a winter walk would
The adjustment is based on also be very invigorating. York
100% of the adjustment in the Region does not charge for these
Consumer Price Index (CPI), a outings. However, please register
weighted basket of goods and with me using my email address,
services typically purchased by annlesleyevans1945@gmail.com,
Canadian households each month. so that we may have an accurate
number of participants.
The method used to calculate the
adjustment is prescribed by the Registration is important as
terms of the plan and is the same the number of snow shoeing
method used by most other major participants is limited to a
Ontario pension plans, as well as maximum of 25.
the Canada Pension Plan.
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 6, 2019
What does this means to you?
In January 2019, you’ll receive Time: 10:30 a.m.
a pension increase of 2.2% more
than in 2018! Location:
Hollidge Tract
Nature’s 16389 Highway 48,
half a kilometer south of Vivian
Classroom Winter Road (Mulock Drive). It is on the
Walk east side of the road, across from
By Ann Evans Cherry Street.
We have been invited by Aileen
Barclay to enjoy a winter walk in
the beautiful scenic trails of the
Hollidge Tract.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 16 34th STORY
Project Service To events. There is also one open
every Wednesday from
Others Grant 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Andrews
Recipients Presbyterian Church in Aurora.
By Regine Baker
C
ongratulations to District If you see one of these booths
34 member Linda Shea- or are in Aurora, stop and buy a
Carter along with Susan drink and help keep this project
Popper, Valerie Hume, Martha viable.
Sheppard, Simon Hubers and
Cindy Heavener on receiving a
$3,085.90 grant through the RTO/ Proposed Event
ERO Project Service to Others
programme.
Registration
Amendments
Their project, Employable By George McKelvey
T
Math Skills and Social Skills he executive is exploring
Development, provides mentally proposed amendments to
challenged and autistic adults in the registration process to
York Region with the training events sponsored by RTO District
and support needed to get work 34 for the spring issue of The
in their community. First they 34th Story.
are taught simple math skills and
money handling in a classroom PROPOSED AMENDMENT
setting. ONE:
Then, in conjunction with Each member will have the
Commons Coffee and Catering, option of mail-in registration
a not-for-profit organization, and payment or the option
they are trained in how to set up, of electronic registration and
manage and dismantle a catering payment.
booth. They learn how to order, Method 1. Mail Registration:
store and prepare beverages
for sale and how to deal with Fill out the registration form
customers. The booths are set up (and waiver form, if applicable)
at several community fairs and and mail it to the event organizer
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 17
along with the cheque. Cheque/ This reduces the need for most
Payment Must Accompany refunds.
Registration.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT
This is the same process that we TWO:
currently use.
Sometimes our very popular
Method 2. Electronic events fill up very quickly.
Registration: Although, all thirty seven
a) Fill out the registration form hundred 34th Story newsletters
(and waiver form, if applicable) are delivered to the post office at
and eMail it as an attachment one time, some of our members
to the event organizer. Do NOT do not receive their copies for
send payment. several days. We are proposing
that the event organizer will
b) The event organizer will reply not process the registrations
to the applicant to confirm the until a number of days after the
registration. newsletters are mailed.
c) The member will make an For example, the newsletter
Interac eTransfer to a yet to be goes out on the 10th. The event
named RTO 34 eMail address. organizer would not process the
The money will go directly into registrations before the 20th. If
the RTO District 34 bank account. the organizer has received fifty
No question or answer required. four combined (electronic and
The registration is complete. posted) registrations for an event
with a forty-eight limit, he/she
NOTE: Why payment is would randomly select forty eight
not to accompany electronic applicants.
registration? Since RTO District
34 bank accounts require two This appears to be a fair way for
signatures, refunds can not be all members, who apply within
made electronically. If a person a day or two of receiving the
sent payment with the registration 34th Story, to have an equal
and the event was sold out or opportunity to be granted a spot
cancelled, the treasurer would be at the event.
required to refund with a cheque.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 18 34th STORY District 34 Fall Luncheon Photography By Grant Dale The District 34 fall luncheon was held on October 25, 2019 at the Cardinal Golf Club in Newmarket. The 140 attendees got to enjoy great food and good company - some even got to do some of their holiday shopping. Once again, thank you to Grant Dale for all the outstanding photos! “Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 19
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RTO/ERO’s Health that promote wellness are also
provided. The information
And Wellness is confidential and personal
Website information is never shared.
By Susan Leppington
L
aunched in September, On January 7, 2019 a Total
the Health & Wellness Health Challenge is set to begin.
Website is part of RTO/ The online health challenge
ERO’s ongoing commitment to allows participating individuals
promoting a healthy lifestyle. The and teams to experience daily
website is designed to encourage activities and health bonuses
members to improve their which let participants earn points
physical and mental health. as they enjoy better health. All
activity counts.
There are three main elements:
a website of wellness strategies Explore the website at
and resources, webinars of pre- www.mywellness.com and click
recorded health presentations and on the various tabs at the top.
a lifestyle questionnaire. Only members who hold an RTO/
ERO health insurance policy
The lifestyle questionnaire (extended health, semi-private
is designed to assess an hospital or dental) including their
individual’s health through a covered spouses can log in to take
series of questions aimed at advantage of additional features,
their demographic, medical such as health questionnaires and
measurements, nutritional the Health Challenge.
habits, physical activity and
life balance. Upon completion
of the questionnaire, members Boost Your Well-
immediately receive a
personalized health profile,
Being
By Susan Leppington
R
summarizing their health status. It
helps members better understand esearch has found that
how everyday habits and family engagement in artistic
history impact their health. activities such as singing,
Tools, resources and information music, dance, painting, drawing,
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 21
photography, etc. can help to at Monskwell Manor. In spite
reduce loneliness and social of poor weather, their rooms are
isolation. soon filled with an interesting
array of eccentric characters.
Participation in this type of When the group is trapped by a
activity has a positive effect on raging blizzard, they discover
the health and well-being of older to their horror that there is a
adults including improving their murderer in their midst. That’s all
memory, creativity, problem the information you’ll get here,
solving, ability to carry out daily but this classic “whodunit” is sure
activities and reaction time. to be a crowd-pleaser!
(Source: McMaster Optimal
Aging Portal) Date: Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2019
Although not a cure-all, it may Time: 8 p.m.
be time - which hopefully you
have more of - to reawaken your Location:
artistic passions. Find the camera, Flato Markham Theatre
buy some paints and artists’ 171 Town Centre Boulevard
canvas or tune up the piano. Get Markham, ON (corner of
out and be a participant rather Hwy. 7 and Warden Ave.)
than a spectator in arts and
crafts activities offered by clubs, Cost: $16 per person
museums and libraries in your
community. Make your cheque out to RTO/
ERO District 34 and send with
The Mousetrap your registration form (pp. 22 or
By Angela Stewart
M
49) to:
arkham Little Theatre Angela Stewart
is pleased to offer 42 Schouten Crescent
discounted tickets Markham, ON L3P 7W7
for RTO/ERO members to their Please place your order by
production of Agatha Christie’s, January 23, 2019.
The Mousetrap.
Visit the RTO table to pick up
Mollie and Giles Ralston are
your tickets the night of the play.
expecting their first paying guests
Join us on the internet at www.34thstory.comPage 22
Page 22 34th
34thSTORY
STORY
Registration for RTO District 34 York
Region Events
Please print.
Name of Event:___________________________________________
Date of Event: ____________________ Cost per person: _______
Registration Deadline Date: ________________________________
Name(s): _______________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
Telephone: _____________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
Bus Pick-up: (if included in the price of the event); (check only one):
Newmarket Location Richmond Hill Location
Meal choice (if applicable): ________________________________
Enclosed is a cheque made out to RTO/ERO District 34 for
$________ for _______ person/people at $_______ each.
Send your completed registration form with your payment to
the address given in the event description. Please use a separate
registration form and cheque for each event request.
NOTE: If bus transportation is included in the price of the event,
the signed waiver found on page 48 must be included with your
registration.
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 23
Disney’s Beauty Location:
Flato Markham Theatre
And The Beast 171 Town Centre Blvd.
By Craig Lee
A
Markham, ON
n arrogant young prince (North-West corner of Hwy. 7
and his castle’s servants and Warden Ave. The theatre
fall under the spell of a is attached to Unionville High
wicked enchantress, who turns School)
him into the hideous Beast
until he learns to love and be Cost: $25
loved in return. The spirited,
headstrong village girl Belle Please place your order by
enters the Beast’s castle after he February 4, 2019
imprisons her father Maurice.
With the help of his enchanted Make your cheque out to RTO/
servants, including the matronly ERO District 34 and send with
Mrs. Potts, Belle begins to draw your registration form (pp. 22 or
the cold-hearted Beast out of his 49) to:
isolation. Craig Lee
21 Lippincott Court
Richmond Hill, ON L4C 7M5
The Unionville Theatre Company
Tickets may be picked up at
invites you to be “our guest”
the box office on the day of the
for an enchanting theatrical
performance.
experience. Featuring iconic
songs such as ‘Belle’, ‘Beauty
and the Beast’, ‘Home’, and
‘Something There’, this classic
story of love, magic and
acceptance will delight all ages.
Your grandchildren will love this
musical.
Date: Sunday, Feb. 24, 2019
Time: 1 p.m.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 24 34th STORY
The Negative Older, retired individuals are
Effects Of Social often subject to feelings of
isolation after the loss of a
Isolation spouse, or having experienced a
By Chris Prefontaine
T
decrease in mobility or cognitive
he objective of the RTO/ decline.
ERO Research Foundation
is to “enhance the quality Social isolation is the number one
of life for aging adults” by emerging issue facing seniors in
funding “age-related research Canada.
and training” and “innovative
community initiatives that
promote social connections and
engagement among older adults.”
Humans are social beings who
thrive through meaningful
relationships with others. The Foundation selected last
Connections with family, friends, October to be “Social Awareness
neighbours and colleagues “keep Month.” Their goal was to raise
us engaged and socially active, awareness through information,
contributing to happiness and facts, tips and action ideas;
better emotional and physical empower people to recognize
health.” and help those who are socially
frail; and support programs and
research on social isolation.
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 25
“Social connectedness has proven The campaign is over, but
to be vital to seniors’ health and don’t let that stop you. Join the
well-being. Those with close challenge now! Reach out and
connections and relationships connect with aging adults in your
tend to cope better with health area.
conditions and experience
fewer mental health issues, like ENGAGE “to raise awareness
depression. Social isolation and take action to bring
can cause physical risk and put Canada’s seniors from isolation
seniors at increased risk of elder to inclusion.” Let’s end social
abuse.” isolation!
We can’t end social isolation Visit https://www.rto-ero.
through activities that take place org/endisolation for more
over just one month. information.
On October 10, 2018, RTO members experienced an enjoyable
morning hike as part of their participation in The York
Regional Forest Nature’s Classroom Program.
Join us on the internet at www.34thstory.comPage 26 34th STORY
T
he Meet District 34 volunteering, Bonnie has a few
Member section of The projects on the go; all of which
34th Story will contain relate to her life’s philosophy of
a series of articles designed helping others.
to introduce local members
of RTO/ERO who have made Born in Kitchener to a Baptist
significant contributions of Minister, Bonnie and her family
artistic merit, service to others moved to the Markham area
or any achievement which may in 1955. She even remembers
be of interest to our group. If when Highway 48 was just
you know of someone who you a dirt road! Bonnie attended
think might be included, please elementary school in Whitevale
email Chris Prefontaine at (at that time, a small rural area
7chris.prefontaine@gmail.com just to the east of Markham), then
Markham High and because she
Meet District 34 skipped two grades early on, she
graduated from York University
Member: at the age of 19.
Bonnie Irwin
By Chris Prefontaine It was a “seller’s market” in the
W
hen is the best time early days after she graduated and
to retire? We have all you could get a job by just going
asked ourselves that down to the Royal York. “Can
question at some point. Is it when you type?” asked one gentleman
you are at the top of your career of Bonnie when she arrived
and want to go out on a high there looking for a job. When
note? There are still one or two she responded, “Yes,” he said,
new things that you’d like to try? “Good, you’re a typing teacher at
Maybe you are hoping to discover Birchmount Park.” After teaching
a new talent or two. for two years in Scarborough
where some of her students were
For District 34 member Bonnie actually older than she was,
Irwin, we might say, “all of the Bonnie returned to her alma
above”! Even though Bonnie mater, Markham High where she
retired from teaching in 1997, taught for another 29 years.
she has never really stopped
working. And, with a passion for
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 27
Arriving at Markham High, “keyboarding was going to be
Bonnie found that she would always essential and that progress
be working under Mr. Herbert wasn’t as far ahead in Europe as
who was head of the business they might have thought it was,
department and her former and that computers were here to
accounting teacher – the one who stay.”
made her write the lines: “I must
not chew gum in Mr. Herbert’s The next year, Bonnie got a
class.” The first time, she only computer lab at the back of her
had to write 100 lines, but it classroom – 20 “Pet Computers”
went up by 50 every time she and she was to teach “word
got caught – and unfortunately, processing”; a term that was just
Bonnie liked to chew gum. starting to be used in ’83.
Initially, Bonnie was worried To help her with this endeavor,
that she would not be able to live the board sent Bonnie to take
up to Mr. Herbert’s standards; a course on the Wang Word
but she did well, spending the Processor and she learned the
rest of her career teaching a intricacies of the skill herself – an
variety of classes in the business expertise that had applications
department, including typing, and outside of the classroom. Bonnie
accounting. knew from her mother who
had been a legal secretary how
In 1983 when computers had just difficult it was to type wills and
come in to the schools, Bonnie how perfect they had to be. Any
asked the board if she could take mistake and a page had to be
a sabbatical to study the use of retyped.
computers in Europe. Her request
was granted and with her young Bonnie saw the potential for
sons, Bonnie toured England, word processing to change this
Scotland, Wales, Ireland and so she took her new skill to
France just to see how they were lawyers in North York who saw
using computers in their schools. the advantages and potential for
Upon returning, Bonnie had to incredible time saving. Bonnie
make a presentation to the board was hired to type wills for that
to let them know what she had firm and since then, Bonnie has
learned. Her message was that probably done thousands of wills
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 28 34th STORY
working nights and weekends she knew she would be doing
until 2014 when she moved to something. After 31 years of
Ballantrae. teaching, Bonnie wanted to
embark in a different kind of
19 years after she started teaching challenge so she decided to
business at Markham High, work as an executive assistant
Bonnie followed in Mr. Herbert’s for a Toronto city councillor; a
footsteps and became head of job which required her to drive
the department. She liked the downtown every day. She looks
management aspect of the job and on these years fondly, as a “great
would teach whatever anybody learning experience,” organizing
else didn’t want. She especially a variety of events and meetings
enjoyed teaching a two year to help bring the Scarborough
course with 23 boys who were Malvern community together. It
taking a lot of tech subjects – was in her ninth year, that Bonnie
“a handful” but she just loved decided to run for office herself,
them. Bonnie told this group and although she lost the election,
of boys, “You will either be an she says, “even just running
entrepreneur or you will work for for an election was a fantastic
one. So, make up your minds.” experience.”
To help them with this, Bonnie
took the group downtown to visit Bonnie moved from Markham
Ed Mirvish to talk about free to Ballantrae four years ago and
enterprise; which probably gave says, “I’m so glad that I’m not
her the idea to create a course on working, because I don’t know
entrepreneurship in York Region where I would find the time to
with her assistant head. do all the things that I do. Every
day is full!” Bonnie loves being
After 10 years as department able to do whatever she wants,
head, Bonnie decided that it whenever she wants. She plays
was time to leave education. golf, swims, loves cooking and
Mr. Herbert attended her recently, Bonnie has begun
retirement party – arriving with a quilting and loves that too! She
“huge” pack of gum! finds it “absorbing” so everyone
“I didn’t really have a plan,” in the family got table runners
at that time, said Bonnie, but this past year Christmas.
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 29
Bonnie does a lot of volunteer
work: she drives neighbors
to doctor’s appointments and
physio; she has a variety of
“medical devices” (seniors’ seats,
walkers and chairs) from her
Photo by Chris Prefontaine mom that she lends out to people
in need; she fund raises for North
Bonnie’s biggest surprise, York General, where her son is
however, was learning that she an anesthesiologist; and she is
has a talent for painting. Not on one of the condo boards in
realizing that she could paint her subdivision – but perhaps
anything more than a “stick Bonnie’s biggest contribution to
figure,” Bonnie enrolled in a society is her work with seniors!
course at Varley Art Gallery in
RTO/ERO made last October
Unionville. Her instructor, Judy
their End Isolation Month and
Livingston, helped Bonnie “open
sent out emails with suggestions
her eyes” as to her capabilities.
of how members could make
The art work on the cover has
a difference. Bonnie accepted
all been painted by Bonnie and
the challenge and embraced the
decorates the walls of her home
activities, but really they just
and her basement “art gallery.”
fit in with her existing efforts.
Bonnie reflects on the times in
life when she thinks seniors might
feel isolated - when “becoming
an empty nester,” moving into
a new area, and definitely after
the loss of a child or partner (by
death or divorce) you might “tend
to withdraw into yourself.” She
thinks that eating meals alone is
also isolating and discouraging.
Photo provided by Bonnie Irwin
Bonnie tries to encourage seniors
who live in her neighbourhood
with “excuses to get together.”
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 30 34th STORY
Many of her ideas for these now grown to include 10 knitters
“parties” coincide with who created about 180 scarves,
established holidays: A Thanks 90 hats, 90 pairs of slippers and
for Girlfriends’ Dinner, Robbie 50 pairs of mittens last year.
Burns Night progressive dinner
parties, Halloween Shell Out
for seniors who live on their
own (dressing up as witches and
delivering home baked goods),
Valentine’s Lunch, Easter Brunch
for Neighbours, Welcome Spring
Breakfast and a Remembrance
Afternoon. “We get together for
Photo provided by Bonnie Irwin
any dumb excuse at all! You just
need somebody to come up with In short, they created and sent
an idea.” 400 pounds of knitted goods
to the East Three Secondary
School in Inuvik, NWT. Minister
of Indigenous Services, Jane
Philpott, was delighted to see
what they had created at their
Canada 150 Open House.
Bonnie at Robbie Burns Night
Photo provided by Bonnie Irwin
Bonnie’s Seniors Helping Youth
(SHY) project arose out of her
desire to create a Canada 150
project while watching a program Photo provided by Bonnie Irwin
on indigenous youth. “Why not
help our own people who live up Bonnie would like to encourage
north!” she thought. Starting out other RTO members who knit and
as a “group” of two, SHY has crochet to join them. There are no
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 31
requirements to join other than staffs are tight knit when they
you need to know how to knit are together working – so reach
basic stitches. You are welcome out to former colleagues to get
to knit in the group or on your together every six months or so to
own - members live in Atlanta sit down and enjoy each other’s
Georgia, Scarborough, North company.
York, Markham and Ballantrae.
Please contact Bonnie by email if Bonnie Irwin has a very positive
interested. blirwin@rogers.com philosophy that helps her through
from day to day. “There are
so many people that are less
fortunate. So whenever you have
a bad day, or I think, oh my back
is hurting, I think, you know
what, I’m OK. I can do this and I
can help somebody else.”
Photo provided by Bonnie Irwin Kiss Of The Spider
Bonnie’s advice to others is to Woman
“reach out.” We have the skills – By Craig Lee
P
we’ve been reaching out to kids Theatre Aurora
all our lives.” She recommends lot Summary: Two
taking isolated seniors out for prisoners, Molina and
coffee, helping non-English Valentín, share a cell in
speaking seniors write letters, a Buenos Aires prison. Molina,
helping them with their an effeminate gay window-
technology, getting together with dresser, is in jail for “corruption
others to eat meals, planning easy of a minor,” while Valentín is a
activities for friends, and keeping political prisoner who is part of
up to date on local activities such a revolutionary group trying to
as Studio Tours and Home Tours. overthrow the government. The
two men, seemingly opposites in
Bonnie also recommends forming every way, form an intimate bond
KIT (Keep in Touch) clubs in their cell, and their relationship
with former colleagues. Many changes both of them in profound
Join us on the internet at www.34thstory.comPage 32 34th STORY
T
ways. Molina recounts various he Healthy Eating section
films he has seen to Valentín in of The 34th Story will be a
order to help them forget their three part series supporting
situation. “It comes as near to RTO/ERO’s focus on the health
being about pure undiluted love and welfare of aging Canadians.
as any play I’ve ever seen.” - The Food is an important part of our
Sunday Times day-to-day existence. Registered
Dietitian Christina Iaboni will
give us some tips and pointers to
Dates: help us improve our nutritional
Choice # 1 Friday, March 1, 2019 well-being.
Time: 8 p.m.
Choice # 2 Sunday, March 3,
2019
Eating For Brain
Time: 2 p.m. Health
By Christina Iaboni, MHSc, RD,
CDE
T
Location: 150 Henderson Drive,
Aurora (south end of Aurora west he human brain is a
off Yonge St.) powerful, complicated
organ which controls
Cost: $20 everything we do. As we get
older, we all want to keep our
Please place your order by brain healthy, so we can enjoy life
February 8, 2019. Make your to its fullest. Unfortunately, many
cheque out to RTO/ERO District Canadians suffer from dementia
34 and send with your registration and the rates are rising.
form (pp. 22 or 49) to:
According to the Alzheimer’s
Craig Lee
Society of Canada, 564 000
21 Lippincott Court
Canadians are currently living
Richmond Hill, ON L4C 7M5
with dementia and that number
is expected to rise to 937 000
Tickets may be picked up at
people in 15 years. Of those over
the box office on the day of the
65 years old being diagnosed,
performance. Acknowledgements
65% are women. Alzheimer’s
will be emailed upon receiving
disease is the most common
the registration form.
form of dementia and symptoms
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 33
include memory loss, difficulty switch your white pasta for a whole
performing daily activities, and grain variety. Oatmeal is a great
changes in judgement, reasoning, whole grain choice for breakfast but
behaviour, and emotions. if you want to try something new,
reheat leftover barley with some
While there is no guaranteed way milk, cinnamon, walnuts and fruit.
to prevent dementia, having a Dark leafy green vegetables: eat at
healthy lifestyle will help keep least one serving daily of dark leafy
your brain as healthy as possible, green veggies such as spinach, kale,
and that includes eating a healthy or swiss chard. Use them in a salad
diet. The food we eat affects the or soup or just sauté them in some
structure and function of the brain olive oil and garlic.
and plays an important role in Other non-starchy vegetables: eat
keeping it healthy. at least one serving per day. Aim for
a variety of colours, such as orange,
In recent years, a new diet purple, red and white as they each
has emerged called the MIND have different antioxidants which
Diet with promising research can protect the brain from cell
that it can help reduce risk of damage.
Alzheimer’s disease and slow the
loss of brain function over time. Nuts: aim for at least 5 servings per
The MIND Diet is a combination week. Snack on almonds or walnuts
or add them to oatmeal, salads, and
of the Mediterranean Diet and
homemade muffins.
the DASH Diet. This diet is high
in nutrients and antioxidants Berries: eat at least two servings a
that can help reduce the plaque week. Berries are the only specific
formation in the brain that is fruit included in the MIND Diet.
thought to cause to Alzheimer’s Berries are full of antioxidants which
disease. can help reduce inflammation and
improve blood flow to the brain.
What foods are a part of the MIND Some studies have shown that
Diet? blueberries can enhance memory
and prevent age related decline in
Whole grains: eat at least three cognition. Add them to oatmeal,
servings per day of whole grains; yogurt, or homemade muffins.
this includes oatmeal, whole grain
breads and pastas and barley. To get Fatty fish: fish such as salmon,
more whole grains into your diet, trout, and sardines are full of brain
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 34 34th STORY
healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Our fats can make the cells of our
brain is made up of about 60% fat brain less flexible and cause
and the type of fat we eat affects damage.
the structure and function of the
brain. Getting enough omega-3 One of the great things about the
helps ensure smooth communication research on the MIND Diet is that
is possible between brain cells even people who followed the
(also called neurons). Aim for two diet moderately had a reduction in
servings of fatty fish a week. their risk for Alzheimer’s disease,
Olive oil: use olive oil as a main it was not “all or nothing.” The
added fat instead of butter or more the diet was followed and
margarine. Olive oil is rich in the longer the length of time
monounsaturated fats which are it was followed, resulted in a
good for the brain as well as the greater reduction of Alzheimer’s
heart. disease risk.
Beans: aim for four servings per Eating well to keep our brain
week. Beans are full of fibre and
healthy is important but food is
protein and low in fat. Use them in
also a highly social experience.
salads, chili, or a replacement for
Taking the time to enjoy a meal
meat in a pasta sauce.
with others provides us with a
Poultry: two servings per week of sense of connection which can
chicken or turkey. also help reduce risk of dementia.
Red wine: red wine has compounds Other lifestyle factors that help
that can protect the brain but be sure promote brain health include
to limit it to no more than one glass a being physically active, not
day. People who consume moderate
smoking, reducing stress, and
alcohol have a lower risk for
developing dementia but excessive
challenging our brain by learning
alcohol consumption increases the something new.
risk. For more information, visit the
The MIND Diet suggests limiting Alzheimer’s Society of Canada
red meat, fried foods, butter/ website at www.alzheimers.ca
margarine, cheese, and sweets - Christina Iaboni has been a
due to the high amounts of registered dietitian since 2011 and
saturated and trans fats. These has worked in a mental health and
“Service to Others”34th STORY Page 35
addiction facility since 2012. She is Reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water.
the owner of Cucina di Christina, a To make the sauce, in a large
nutrition communications company. skillet, heat olive oil over
She has a passion for helping people medium heat. Add the red onion
improve their health by eating and cook until softened, about
nutritious food and empowering
4 minutes. Add the capers,
them to cook simple but delicious
food. She is also the niece of RTO cook 1 minute. Add the cherry
member Theresa Zavaglia. tomatoes; cook, stirring until the
tomatoes burst, about 5 minutes.
Smash with a spatula, then stir in
Tuna And Tomato the tuna, breaking it into chunks.
Pasta Toss with the cooked pasta. If the
By Christina Iaboni sauce is too thick, add some pasta
T
water to loosen.
his recipe is full of flavour;
the cherry tomatoes add
a nice sweetness to the
sauce. You can make the sauce
in the amount of time it takes to
cook pasta so it makes a great
weeknight dinner. The recipe is Tips:
lightly adapted from the March * Cook your pasta until it is al
2017 issue of Food Network dente, or a bit firmer to the bite.
magazine. Serves 2 to 3 Pasta is full of carbohydrates
Ingredients: and al-dente pasta is digested
2 tbsp. olive oil more slowly than softer cooked
½ a red onion, sliced pasta, promoting a slower release
2 tbsp. capers of carbohydrates into the blood
1 x 14oz. can of cherry tomatoes stream.
198g. can of tuna of packed in oil
12oz. whole grain spaghetti (just *Choosing whole grain pasta
less than half a 454g. bag) over white pasta is a great way
to increase your fibre intake.
Directions: Fibre also helps slow digestion of
Cook pasta according to package carbohydrates which is important
directions for al dente pasta. for people with diabetes.
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 36 34th STORY District 34 Artisans’ Marketplace By Susan Leppington, Photography By Grant Dale At our fall luncheon, 20 talented RTO members shared the wonderful expressions of their artistic passion with the 140 attendees. Our first Artisans’ Marketplace was held amidst a very social atmosphere on a beautiful fall day at Cardinal Country Club. Tickets were sold for the raffle of each vendors’ donated piece of work and over $700 was raised for RTO/ERO’s Foundation for geriatric research. We gratefully thank those members who displayed and offered for sale their beautiful work and all the members who attended. It was great day. “Service to Others”
34th STORY Page 37
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comPage 38 34th STORY
Welcome New Members
By Evelyn Lawrence
S
ince our last newsletter was printed, the provincial office has
informed us that the following have become members of RTO/
ERO and have indicated their wish to be affiliated with District
34 – York Region. Information which is received after we go to print
will be included in the next newsletter.
Cynthia Gasner
Carol Griffiths
Lenore Greaves
Teresa Hickey
Leslie Johnstone
Janet Jordan-Shagass
Henriette Landry
Carol Lang
On behalf of the Executive and Lynda Levenstein
all of the members of RTO/ Donna Lieberman
ERO District 34, I extend a Laura Lindover
warm welcome to these new Carol Lindsay
Members within our ranks: Jean Lyons
Lois Alderson-Wigelius Elaine Maddeaux
Afsaneh Amir-Rahimi Debra Mancini
Pierre Amplemann Elazar Morel
Kevin Anderson Anna Mueller
Naomi Babineau Donna Paskewich
Betty Branch Linda Patterson
Alva-Joye Carroll-Allman Paul Quattrociocchi
Janice Christen Darlene Ramsey-Wu
Kimberly Cimetta Ralph Robertson
Ida D’Addese Patricia Rudderham
Judith Dickens Jean Rudman
Anne Marie Devine Lisa Scherer
Elizabeth Foot Elizabeth Schilbach
“Service to Others”34th STORY
STORY Page
Page39
39
Stephanie Sebben
Andrea Shapiro In Memoriam
Michael Sharkey
Edward Taylor
Richard Topp W ith sorrow we have
learned of the
passing of the following
Gerald Trefler
members of District 34. To
William Vansickle their families we extend our
Santina Vitale heartfelt sympathy.
Reid Wilshire Helen Bradstock
Shelley Wister-Smith Edgar Branch
Mary Wynn Earl Brown
Maria Theresa Zavaglia Carmine Buonocore
Irvine Dean
Sharon Emerson
WELCOME NEW Christopher Foot
MEMBERS FROM OTHER Gail Gardner
DISTRICTS Sybil Garrick
Jean Gosbee
Marie-Claude Chalifour-Vessio William Guy
Mary Louise Hunt
Dale Jackson
George Lester
Richard Lieberman
Stanley Lindeblom
Margaret Murray
Maryann Quattrociocchi
Helen Shepherd
Ann Turko
David Wallace
Robert Weir
Gary Wynn
Join us on the Internet at www.34thstory.comYou can also read
