Welcome to the Retirees Committee Site

Next Meeting: April 19^th 2016 @ 12 noon MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410, Kris     Croteau: 613-577-2849

PSBT direct debit

As you probably know we are now able to pay our PSBT Health and Welfare premiums by direct debit from our Bank accounts, well, nearly  at all major financial institutions, it seems that TD has to be brought on line, a work in progress.  Some minor problems occurred but a success overall.

Deaths

Two Brothers have passed since our January meeting, Jimmy Davidson and Derick Howard.

Surgery

Tommy Allan has had a few surgery’s in the past 4 months, one for circulation in the groin area, a fractured Hip and another on his right Knee, he’s presently in Scarborough General Hospital Rm.398, hopefully moving to Ajax Hospital for re-hab. Sandy Mc Aslan and myself have been up for couple visits, please check with Sandy at 905-430-2180 if you’re thinking of visiting as he’s in contact with the family.  

Annual “Fishing Derby

The details of the Annual “Fishing Derby” have been posted at the CUSW site Details:
June 25-26th, 2016
at the Desert Lake Resort
$30/adult (16+)

Contact names and numbers are

Kris Croteau at 613-577-2849
or Pat Smith at 905-440-5423.

Shingles Vaccine

I was contacted by a Retiree to see if we were covered for the Shingles Vaccine, which we are not. I sent in a request to the PSBT Trustees Committee for consideration of it being added to our coverage, if you have any requests for items to be added to the plan contact Lisa North at   latis1@sympatico.ca

If you could email me to say if you can make the Luncheon it would be much appreciated.

Regards,

Archie

Next Meeting: January 19^th 2016 @ 12 noon MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410, Kris     Croteau: 613-577-2849

 “Happy New Year”

Hi, not much to report on the Retirement front so I thought I would write a wee bit about an increasing phenomenon in our Society today.

Scams and Frauds

This year I have had three personal experiences. The first was when I received a phone call from Microsoft telling me I that they had noticed on an automatic Windows Download that my Recycle bin had not been deleting properly and that it had started to slow down my Computer, as it happened I was having problems my computer at that time. He then proceeded to tell me how to correct the problem by leading me through various steps, when this was not successful he then asked permission to access my computer, this is when I said no and ended the conversation.

I contacted the RMCP fraud squad http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/scams-fraudes/index-eng.htm

and reported what had happened, they were aware of this scam, as it was coming from India they were having little success in closing it down. The end result of this scam was a payment of $400.00 for a program to clear up the problem. They got the $400 and you got shafted.

The second incident was my Credit card was compromised, by charges of $604.00 in Ireland and a $400.00 Pay Pal payment neither of which was mine; BMO took care of it at no cost to me.  I believe the card was compromised in Daytona, Florida when I used my card to pay for a meal. The waitress took my card rather than brining a card reader to the table, although I realized this a minute or two after and went to the Cash desk I believe the damage was done. Fact or fiction seems this is/was the way it is done in Daytona/USA?

The third one was I received an email from Pay Pal telling me this was confirmation of a Bill they had paid for me, to someone in Australia, and if this was not correct to click here and input my Pay Pal information including my Credit card Info.

As it was obviously incorrect I’m sure those who have a Pay Pal account may have gone the next step and provided the Info. I contacted Pay Pal and the Fraud Squad with the details it was /is another scam.

So be on the lookout, the buggers are getting more ingenious in their way to Con us out of our money.

Still no word on when we will have Direct Debit to pay for our PSBT Benefit Package.

If you could email me to say if you can make it would be much appreciated.

Have asked John Wabb to join us on the 19^th as or our speaker hopefully he can make it.

Lang may Yir Lum Reek

Regards  ….Archie

Next Meeting: October 20th 2015 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville @ 12 noon
Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410, Kris     Croteau: 613-577-2849

Death

Rocco Carroccia died July 22, 2015.

Direct Debit for Benefits

The latest word on Direct Debit for Benefits is that Meridian Credit Union is still in Negotiations with the 5 major banks, no resolve in sight for now.

Budget

Its Budget time for Units and Committees, I have submitted one for the Retirees.

Lunch

Maddy’s has asked if I could let them know approximately how many will be attending for lunch on the 20th, if you could email me it would be much appreciated.

Please come and join us for some fellowship and share those old memories on the 20th^,

If you have any suggestions for topics to be discussed or a speaker you would like, please let me know.

Yours Sincerely

Archie

Next Meeting: July 21st 2015 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410, Kris     Croteau: 613-577-2849

Summer at Last?

Welcome, to two more long standing members have retired, Ron Young in February and Hugh Gillies in May, long may they enjoy their retirement.

Two of our senior members from our 1788 days; Alex Ogilvie & Jimmy Shirsinger both have dementia.

Mark's 10% Discount Code for CUSW Members

Emblazon a CUSW logo on your gear.

Details: The coupon bearer is an member, and is entitled to a 10% discount on the following items: Carhartt Merchandise; Dakota Industrial Workwear; DH & WR Shirts, Sweatshirts, Knits, Wovens, Fleece Tops, Fleece Bottoms, Shorts and Cotton Twill Pants (Incl. Nano); Jeans; Rainwear; Winter and Safety Accessories; Casual and CSA Approved Footwear (Incl. Anti-Slip).

I noticed the download at CUSW has an expiry date of June 30^th 2015.

I have new cards with an expiry date of April 30^th 2016

The cost of engraving per article is $5.25.

I am still awaiting word of when we will have Direct Debit to pay for our PSBT Benefit Package.

Golf Tourney season is under way, hopefully you all received my email, if not you can access the Info on the CUSW site, also the Fishing Derby takes place this weekend at Desert Lakes Resort, North of Kingston.

Maddy’s has asked if I could let them know approximately how many will be attending for lunch on the 21^st, if you would email me it would be much appreciated.

Please come and join us for some fellowship and share those old memories on the 21^st, if you have any suggestions for topics to be discussed or a speaker you would like, please let me know.

Yours Sincerely

Archie

Next Meeting: April 21st 2015 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville

Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410, Kris Croteau: 613-577-2849

“Happy EASTER”

This Meeting will fall two days after the Convention in Niagara Falls, celebrating CUSW’s 15^th Birthday. As far as I’m aware only two Retired Members will be in attendance, Ken Waldie and myself.

January 20th meeting

There were 23 people in attendance. With Joe Mulhall, Kerri Mulhall and Sonny Goldstein being the main speakers.

A new and updated Optional Package for Benefits was reviewed, discussed and presented.

It is hoped that those of us who are presently paying by cheque will be able to pay the Benefits by Online Banking by July 2015.

New retirees:

Three of latest retirees were present, Mike Burns, Doug Smith and Sandy McIntosh were presented with a CUSW Jacket in recognition of their Retirement; Ray Amirault was in sunny Florida enjoying his early retirement.

I received an email from the Northwest Unit informing me of three more members retiring, George Puurenen, Ernie Godin and Derick Howard, welcome Gentlemen, wishing you a Long, Happy and Healthy Retirement.

Trustees Meeting

Ken Waldie attended a Trustees meeting on behalf of the Retirees in March these are some of the points he reported on. The Trustees are attempting to have the Life Insurance on Spouses stay at $25,000 at present it reduces at age 75 to half? We will know after the contract with the carrier is re- negotiated          They are going to appoint someone to look into the rejected claims that Great West life is not allowing, to see if they should be paid.          

 The Trustees are still looking for members who have invested their RSP money in the money market, rather than having it invested in something that gives better interest.        

Please come and join us for some fellowship and share those old memories on the 21^st, if you have any suggestions for topics to be discussed or a speaker you would like from CUSW please let me know.

Yours Sincerely,

Archie

Next Meeting: January 20th 2015 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie: 905-372-9410,
Executive Member: Kris Croteau: 613-577-2849

“Happy New Year”

I wish you and yours, health and happiness for this and many more years.

2015 is (our) CUSW Convention in Niagara Falls.

About the Convention:

The 6th Convention of the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers will be held on Friday April 17, Saturday April 18, and Sunday April 19, 2015 in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

The Constitution sets out the Roles within the Union and defines how each of us participates in the day to day activities.

For more on the Convention, visit the Innovation Station

The number of Delegate Nominations received for the upcoming Convention was fewer than the number of open Convention Delegate positions. Therefore all nominated Members are acclaimed as Delegates and ballots will not be distributed.

Delegates will be contacted early in the New Year confirming details for attendance at the Convention.

Questions about the PSBT

There have been a few queries made over payments into the PSBT this past year.

 I’m happy to tell you that Joe (Mulhall) will be attending on the 20th and hopefully, have the answers your questions.

Here's a photo from the October meeting:

 

Next Meeting Jan. 20

Please come and join us for some fellowship and share those old memories on the 20^th. I’m hoping Sonny will be in attendance to assist you with your RRSP’s and any other financial questions you may have.

Yours Sincerely,

Archie

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next Meeting: October 14th 2014 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Interim Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793 • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie:  905-372-9410 Kris Croteau: 613-577-2849

– NEWS –

This is the newly elected CUSW National Executive.
        Joe Mulhall (President)
        John Wabb (First Vice-President)
        Jason Landry (Treasurer)
        Craig Batty (Recorder)
        Steve Gilroy Executive Board
        Kris Croteau Executive Board
        Don Mayer    Executive Board

If you Click on the link below it will give you the listing of who is on the Various CUSW National Committees

CUSW National Committees

Deaths: Liam Cahill passed on the 9th of September from a Heart Attack. Liam was a long time member of 1788 & CUSW before taking a position as FLM with OPG our sympathies to his wife Moira and Family.
The Question of when we will be able to pay directly from our Bank accounts for the Benefit package has not been answered, the latest I heard was that Meridian was the stumbling block; I have not received anything further on the matter.

Kris Croteau from the National Executive Board has been appointed to the National Retirees Committee with me, there is still room for more people on the Committee, please consider putting your name forward.

Questions asked but not answered: Other business discussed was the Retirees place within the Union as per the Constitution / Matrix. One of the questions raised was although we cannot run for position on the National Executive Board (NEB) why are we not allowed to vote? Most of the Retirees were founding members of CUSW and believe that we should be able to vote on who will manage the affairs of our Union.

Another question, can a person who is no longer in Good Standing still pay into the PSBT?   And yet another, though maybe farfetched would it be possible for someone to join the Union, pay their out of work dues for three months, not go to work, become a participant of PSBT, then notify that they are retiring, then pick up the option package?

Hope to see you all on the 15th October at Maddy’s

Regards
Archie

CUSW Retirees Newsletter

INTERIM LETTER

An even dozen made it out to the Retirees meeting / luncheon at the July meeting. Sonny Goldstein was our guest speaker, and spoke of the Options available to “Retired Members” for the Power Sector Benefit Trust (PBST).

I have highlighted “Retired Members”, as you must be registered with the Union / PSBT as retired before you qualify to use the Optional package.

This is how Joe (Mulhall) explained it to me, when I asked about the Retirees mailing list:

___________________

Hi again Archie.  Mailing lists are created by category.  See Article 4.03.

When we put this in the Constitution last time around we asked the Membership and Work Rules Committee to define the categories so that the members could choose how they would like to participate.  The Committee created the Matrix.  The category of Retiree was created.  The Matrix was distributed and posted on the website.

The confusion arises immediately after a person leaves the workplace. Members that choose to participate as a Retiree must notify the office that they would like to do so.  All others that leave the workplace will be notified after 5 months that they are in arrears on their dues and if they do not send in their basic dues that they will go on withdrawal.   Most people just don't respond and are placed in the withdrawal category.

It is likely that the number is lower than expected because members leaving the workplace see themselves as retiring and expect that the computer setting will be changed somehow to reflect that.  This is not the case. Only the people that have notified the office that they want to be designated as a Retiree would appear on a list of Retirees prepared by the office.

In addition if a member does not select to participate as a Retiree and is placed on withdrawal then they are no longer in Good Standing and are not eligible to participate in Unit elections either.  We have been trying to get this message out but with limited success.  For most members it does not matter and they don't bother.  For others they just don't know. 

___________________

So have you notified the Union you are officially retired? Call or email them to be put on the Retirees list and be qualified to partake of the Option Package.  Something to note you have to be 65 or older in order to qualify for the Option package.

In previous mailings I have sent out the Matrix, Optional rates, Optional package information, if you need it again please let me know.

Other business discussed was the Retirees place within the Union as per the Constitution / Matrix. One of the questions raised was although we cannot run for position on the National Executive Board (NEB) why are we not allowed to vote? Most of the Retirees were founding members of CUSW and believe that we should be able to vote on who will manage the affairs of our Union. Another question, can a person who is no longer in Good Standing still pay into the PSBT?   And yet another, though maybe farfetched would it be possible for someone to join the Union, pay their out of work dues for three months, not go to work, become a participant of PSBT, then notify that they are retiring, then pick up the option package?

If you have a question please forward to me and when I get the answer we can share it with all the retirees.

Since January when Ken and Judy gave up their positions on the NRC it’s been a one man show, although Ken did attend the Trustees committee on the behalf of the Retirees, we have no report as to what took place.

 As this is the year when the Committees are formed / appointed we need people to put their names forward to participate, attached is where you get your nomination form, please have your name put forward for consideration for the Retirees Committee.

  http://www.cusw.ca/documents/14484/2148108/2014_national_committee_elections.pdf/e70d208b-7e6c-4d5b-ad54-e1ec6b496611

Best Regards

Archie

 

Next Meeting: July 15^th 2014 at MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville
Interim Chair, Archie Wallace: 905-697-1793  • Trustee Rep Ken Waldie:  905-372-9410

– NEWS –

Hello again, sounds like the start of a song?

We need a committee, can’t go on as a one, two man show, nominate someone they can always decline have a look / listen to the video below, nominations in July appointments by September.

http://vimeo.com/76571695

Below are the Web pages for the East End and Niagara Hamilton Units Golf Tournaments.

https://www.cusw.ca/documents/14484/2256104/Cusw+golftourney_flyer+2014.pdf/28c09f14-4bfa-48d4-b963-5b36fde4f701

https://www.cusw.ca/documents/14484/2256104/NH+2014+Tourney.pdf/fd43ee33-c9d6-4900-a4a8-dd088b6707ef

We are still pursuing a copy of the “A Le Carte menu” for Benefits with no luck so far, if any member has a copy please scan and email it to me please.

I believe we have three new Retirees if my source is correct, Ray Amirault, Doug Smith and Thomas “Sandy” MacIntyre from the East End Unit don’t have an email address but I will try to contact them and invite them to our next meeting. Please if you are talking to them, invite them to our next meeting.

https://www.cusw.ca/documents/27475/1965546/Membership+Matrix-April+13-12.pdf/7438083e-3423-446c-89e9-a81aeefaafaf

The above address is the Membership Matrix, which will guide you on what and how members participate including Retired Members.

Hope to see you all on the 15^th at Maddy’s

 – Archie

 

 

The CUSW National Retirees' Committee has positions available.

Interested Members can apply to the National Executive Board, via Archie Wallace: awallace3@sympatico.ca.

Consider putting your name forth!

See you all at Maddy’s on the 15^th April

Best Regards

Archie N Wallace

awallace3@sympatico.ca

CUSW National Retirees Committee, Volume 36

Next Meeting: JANUARY 21, 2014

Archie Wallace, Chair, 905-697-1793

Where? MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville

When? TUESDAY, JANUARY 21, 2014

NEWS

Another year has passed and 2014 is beginning. Seasons Greeting to everyone and I wish you all a Healthy and Happy  year.

After turning 75 this year and being in the position of chairperson of the Retires for more than 10 years, and writing over 36 newsletters. I have decided it is time to pass this position to someone else.

It is my belief someone else will have new ideas and new ways to do things, so before I grow stagnate I am passing on this position.

Over the years of working and getting the Retirees Group started, I enjoyed the help of many people, helping get things organized. I would like to say thank you, to all those.  We could not have done it with out your help. Also to the membership, all of you who read the newsletter, all those who called me to talk and give me comments, all those who sent e-mail addresses when I asked for them. THANK YOU.

THE NEW LEADER

Archie Wallace has graciously decided he would take over the position of Chairperson of the Retirees. It is my wish that you extend the same co-operation to him as you did me. Come and welcome him at the next meeting at Maddys, on January 21^st

To those who haven’t sent an e-mail address: Due to the news the Post Office just reported that stamps will soon be going up to $1.00, it is most important if you would like to continue to get the newsletter to send in an e-mail address.

DEATHS

F. McParland  passed away January 4, 2013 our deepest sympathy to his family and friends.

Jim Hind passed away October 2013. our deepest sympathy to Jim`s family and friends.

This will be my last letter to you.

The Best Regards to All,

Ken

CUSW National Retirees Committee, Volume 35 

Next Meeting: OCTOBER 15, 2013

Ken Waldie, Chair, 905-372-9410

Archie Wallace Vice Chair, 905-697-1793

Judy Mitchell-Wilson, Secretary Treasurer, 705-484-1073

Where? MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville

When? TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2013

NEWS

I have very little news to report and now have no access to get any.

Our next annual meeting will be held at Maddy`s in Bowmanville on October 15^th. I hope you can make it to our meeting. In the past we have had as many as 24 to this meeting, it would be great to see a new record set. We have some important issues to discuses.

Out of Country Insurance

The Out of Country Insurance is still an important question for us the Retired Members. Many people don’t realize that you should have Out of Country just to go to another province, and absolutely need it to go to the USA or abroad. A medical problem without insurance could cost you your home.

It would have been nice if the Power Sector Benefit Trust had at least got a price of what the increase might have been and how it would have affected the younger members. After all the younger members of today will be the older members of the future.

Deaths

A passed member of 1788:

R. S. Cassanova has passed away April 20, 2013.

With great sadness I report to you the passing of member

Jim Watson around July 19th, 2013.

Our deepest sympathy to the families and friends of these members.

Best Regards,

Ken,

kenwaldie@aol.com

Hi Retirees,

I thought you would like to know what’s going on with the Retirees Committee.  I’ve sent a similar email to all the CUSW committees'  Chairs and Co Chairs as you can see below.

Ken left me with a number of lists with addresses and emails. To cross check them with the mailing list would take to much time. So I’m asking that, if your email address is sort of undecipherable such as "wirewoodshed", "amrdbr" or "dodoset" to name a few. Please would you drop me an email as to who I’m emailing . Also let me know if you’ve received it twice.  awallace3@sympatico.ca

I would also like to remind you of our next Retirees luncheon / get together is at Maddy’s on the third Tuesday in April, the 15th 12.00 –12.30. All are welcome. My apologies to those who I’ve missed, and to those who have received the email please pass the word on.

Email to CUSW Committee Chairs / Co Chairs, Feb. 10:

This email is to let you know that there has been a change within the National Retirees Committee: Ken Waldie, Judy Mitchell-Wilson, & Don Douglas have resigned their positions, leaving Serge Vidotto and myself (Archie Wallace) remaining. I have assumed the position of Chair on an interim basis till nominations & appointments take place later this year.

The Retirees have been meeting quarterly at Maddy’s Restaurant in Bowmanville (Division St) on the third Tuesday’s of January, April, July and October since forming a Retirees Group, its committee evolving into the National Retirees Committee.

We do have an email list of Retired members though I feel it may be incomplete.  I’m asking if you would pass this information on to all Retired members within your Units and ask that they contact me through email at awallace3@sympatico.ca  or call me at 905-697-1793.

Regards,
 
Archie
A.N.Wallace
Interim Chair
National Retirees Committee

CUSW National Retirees Committee, Volume 34

Next Meeting: JULY 16, 2013

Ken Waldie, Chair, 905-372-9410

Archie Wallace Vice Chair 905-697-1793

Judy Mitchell-Wilson, Secretary Treasurer 705-484-1073

Where? MADDY`S, 7 Division Street, Bowmanville.      

When? TUESDAY, JULY 16, 2013

I’m sorry to report only two persons were interested in finding out what our coverage of the Power Sector Benefit Trust covers of our health insurance. Needless to say we will not need to run a course.

Out of Country Coverage

The Power Sector Benefit Trust contacted Great West with regard to extending our Out of Country Coverage from 75 to a greater figure like 85, this I am told was rejected, like NO WAY.

My favorite line is after age 75 I go in Jail. In other words after 75 we can’t leave Canada because most people have a health problem and can not afford out of country insurance.

If you listen on the news they keep saying how people are living longer, the Government is raising the Old Age Pension higher to 67 because of this, but insurance companies don’t appear to be backing them up by raising the insured age at least to 77.

I wonder if the people making these decisions will feel the same about it when they reach 75? Lots of people are working into their 70s, they won’t have long to travel and will be surprised when they spend Big Bucks after age seventy five.

Deaths

If I have missed  a brothers death, please email me and let me know .  

It is with great sadness that I report to you the passing of the following member

Robert Henderson passed away May 9^th our sympathies to his wife Margaret.

Our deepest sympathy to the families and friends of these members.

Best Regards,

Ken.

kenwaldie@aol.com