Scarborough Professional Fire Fighters Retirees
Feb 17/19
Termination Of Benefits
Recently it was
discovered by a number of retirees who turned 65 that their pre-65
benefits
with the City of Toronto had been terminated early. For those who have
pre-65 benefits the City says they are
suppose to be good until the end of the month in which you turn 65, at
which
time you would transition to the Health Care Spending Account (HCSA).
For
instance if you celebrate your 65th on January 15th your benefits end
on
January 31st.
For whatever
reason
Green Shields Canada (GSC) have terminated the pre-65 benefits before
the end of that month in which they turned 65. This was
discovered when individuals had their last dental check ups and/or
work done near the end of the month
and the claims were denied. It should be noted that once contacted the
city did correct the issue and the claims were paid.
The unknown
here is
whether all benefits were terminated and the exact date they were
terminated.
If you plan on
traveling up until the end
of the month you turn 65, you may want to make sure your pre-65 out of
country travel insurance
will be active during your travel or acquire coverage to be sure.
If you find
you're
coverage has been denied/terminated you should contact the City of
Toronto Benefits
Department at 416-392-3903. It would also be helpful if you fill out
the form
on the 3888 website so the Association is aware and hopefully
able to work with
the City to correct this issue. If this link does not work, the form
can be found on the homepage of the 3888 website, there's no need to
log in.
Feb 5/19
February Luncheon Reminder
Hello
Everyone,
Our
lunch
this month is on Valentine's day, Thursday February 14th.
At
the Harp & Crown Pub in Pickering (n/e corner of Kingston Rd and
Altona Rd.)
Starting
around
11:30, $10 buys lunch and draw ticket.
As
usual I'll have SFF clothing and window decals on hand.
Hope
to see you there.
Fraternally,
John
V
Jan 4/19
January Luncheon Reminder
Hello
Everyone,
Well
the Christmas and New Year events are over, now we just have to pay
the bills and try to keep those new year's resolutions. (the weight,
where does it come from????)
Our
retiree
lunch will be held on Thursday January 10th. starting around 11:30
at
the usual location The Harp & Crown Pub at Kingston Rd &
Altona Rd in Pickering.
Twenty
one
years on and still going strong, come out and say hello to your old
comrades.
Lunch
is still only $10 and dues are also due again only $10 per year.
See
you there. Fraternally,
John
V
Dec 2/18
Christmas Breakout Lunch
Hello
Everyone,
Hard
to believe Christmas is almost here, seems like yesterday we were at
the Port Perry lunch.
Well
we're
ready for the winter lunches in Pickering starting with the Christmas
Breakout lunch.
These
lunches
are held on the SECOND Thursday of each month from December through
April.
Date
for the Christmas Breakout Lunch is Thursday December 13th, starting
around 11:30 am.
Location
is
still the Harp & Crown Pub on the N/E corner of Kingston Road and
Altona Road in Pickering.
Cost
for the lunch is $10 with a selection of the 4 following items:
Chicken wings. Corned beef on Rye sandwich.
Chicken
Ceasar
salad. or Fish & Chips.
Please
rsvp
so we can get a rough number for the Harp & Crown staff.
Email
John at johntvon@gmail.com or call 905 509-2953 or Roy 416 261-0661.
It's
also
time for membership dues that are due. and still only $10 per year. (I
don't know how we do it???)
The
turnout
for all lunches have increased in numbers even though it's been 21
years since amalgamation.
(Average
turnout
has been around 35 to 40).
Come
out and say hello to all your OLD comrades, this is our biggest
turnout usually.
I'll
have
clothing (hats, T shirts, sweatshirts etc.) and window decals
available.
See
you there.
Fraternally,
John
V
Nov 28/18
OMERS Pension Increase
Everyone likes an early Christmas gift. On November 26th OMERS
advised that "Your OMERS Pension will increase by 2.29%, as of
January 1, 2019".
Hey and what better way to celebrate then to get out to the Christmas
breakout on December 13th @ the Harp and Crown and share a beverage
and some camaraderie with your brother and sister fire fighters -
retired or still hard at we'd love to see you there!!
Sept 22/18
October Luncheons
Hello Everyone,
Well fall has arrived and it's time have the last Lunch of the
season of
the Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees lunch in Port Perry.
Date is: October 4th. Thursday. Starting around 11:30
Location: THE PUB on Water Street in Port Perry.
The season has been a great success breaking some attendance records.
Great to see so many old faces and from so faraway.
I'd like to thank everyone for coming out and supporting the SFF Retiree
Club.
Looking forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Also, I've had a number of inquiries regarding the fall
ladies lunch so I though I'd better get it out early. Yes we're
ready for the ladies lunch.
The date is : Thursday October 11th. starting at 11:30
Location is: The Mandarin Restaurant in Pickering (south/east corner of
Kingston Rd & Brock Road) The cost is $15.00 per person
.
Please reply as soon as possible (as there is limited space) to:
John Vonk email johntvon@gmail.com
phone 905 905-2953 or Roy Fletcher at:
416 261-0661.
Our guest speaker will be from RECUE 7 INC. (John Collie) with the topic
of 'The First Ten Minutes of a Medical Emergency'.
Everyone is welcome to attend , looking forward to seeing you.
p.s. The Port Perry Golf Tourney was a great success with roughly 60
attending dinner.
Thanks to Ray Green and John Barker for their work in putting it on.
p.p.s. Don't forget Daryl Maclennan's retirement on Thursday Sept.
27th at the Harp & Crown Pub in Pickering (Kingston Rd & Altona)
starting at 2pm. tickets $10 at the door.
Fraternally,
John V
Sept 3/18
TPFFA/IAFF Active Retired Membership
As many retired and still active SFDers are members of the
Scarborough Professional Fire Fighters Retirees group, its thought you
may also be interested in the Toronto Firefighters Local 3888/IAFF
Active Retired group. The work to get this off the ground began about
a year ago and to date there are around 130+ members, with membership
growing each month. To date there's been an inaugural meeting and an
Executive Board will be elected at the October 25th meeting.
For $25.00 annually you would be an Active Retired member of both the
TPFFA Loc3888 and the IAFF. As this group grows there will be
educational and training opportunities with the TPPFFA, as well as
travel discount opportunities. Please follow the link to see what all
the membership includes.
Aug 30/18
September Luncheon Reminder
Hello Everyone,
It's time once again for the Port Perry Scarborough Fire Fighters
Retirees Summer lunch, the Date is: Thursday September 6th. starting
around 11:30 a.m. Location is: THE PUB on Water Street in Port
Perry. Last month had an overwhelming turnout, so come out and enjoy the
camaraderie. As usual I'll have SPFF clothing and window decals
available.
Also a quick reminder of the upcoming SPFF Golf Tourney on Friday
September 21st. at the Sunnybrae Golf Club in Port Perry. Contact Ray
Green at 905 985-5031 or John Barker at 905 853-7293 to book your spot.
Fraternally,
John V
June 20/18
Ross McTavish
Hello Everyone,
I found out recently that our Ross McTavish (Alias SAM) had a serious
fall and as a result has had to move to a retirement home.
He was confined to a wheel chair for a while but is now using a
walker.
Ross would love to hear from you or a visit, and is located at: The
Scarborough Retirement Centre - 150 Markham Road Unit 709 (just north
of Kingston Rd).
We wish Ross a speedy recovery and all the best.
Fraternally,
John V
June 8/18
Peggy Rankin's 90th Birthday
I
know its short notice but I'm also sure we all remember how she
would do everything she could to help us when she could and just how
extra special and kind Peggy always was. We received the following
note from Bill Sheddon regarding her up coming 90th birthday. As
John Vonk is away in Ireland there will not be an email blast going
out, so we ask that you share this with as many SFDers as possible -
hopefully some can make it!
"Hi John. I bumped into Tracy Rankin (Peggy
Rankin’s daughter) tonight, her mother is turning 90 and Tracy is
throwing a party for her. She asked me to tell any older SFD guys
about the party as her mother would love to see them. The party will
be in the party room of their condo at 121 Ling Rd. Scarborough. (Lawrence and Morning Side). This Sunday,
June 10th from 1.00 to 4.00. Drop in."
Thanks.
Bill.
May 4/18
TPFFA WSIB Committee
The
following is from the Toronto Professional Fire fighters
Association L3888. It is being posted here as a reminder and
because it may be of importance to some of our retired members.
Dear Retiree,
The
TPFFA WSIB Committee has worked very hard over the past 18 months to
ensure that authorizations to represent have been updated at WSIB
for our retired members. We continue to find a number of
retirees with existing claims for which we have no knowledge.
We can only advocate on your behalf if we know about your claim.
Any
previous representations have been rescinded by WSIB, which
essentially means, that we are no longer receiving any
correspondence. We do not want to miss anything important and
we want to be able to quickly intervene if the need arises.
Unless we have a new authorization to represent we cannot assist
you.
Again,
we ask that any retired member that has an ongoing WSIB claim or any
claim for an occupational disease (e.g. cancer) regardless of the
status to please contact John Snider or Neil McKinnon by email or
telephone (our contact information below).
If
you have not updated your authorizations (or are not sure) to either
Gavin Jacklyn or Andrew Lee from the OPFFA or John Snider or Neil
McKinnon from the TPFFA please contact us so that we can update the
necessary records, if necessary. It will only take a few
minutes of your time but will save considerable amounts of time if
we need to intervene on your behalf in the future.
As
always, if you ever have a question or concern about your claim(s),
please do not hesitate to contact us.
Fraternally,
John
Snider
Neil McKinnon
416-347-7126
416-659-2624
snider@torontofirefighters.org
mckinnon@torontofirefighters.
org
Toronto Professional Fire Fighters' Association
WSIB Committee Co-Chairs
Apr 25/18
Spring Ladies Luncheon
Hello
Everyone,
Well
spring
is finally here, (I put away my snow blower, shovels, salt, snow
tires, boots, gloves, hat winter coat, haaa that feels better!!!!)
It's
time for the Scarborough Professional Fire Fighter Retirees Spring
Ladies lunch, which is to be held on Thursday May 10th. at 11:30 am.
At
the Mandarin Restaurant in Pickering. Kingston Road and Brock Road
(south/east corner).
The
cost is $30 per couple or $15 per person. All are welcome so don't
miss out.
Our
guest speaker will be Jackie Forsey Ambassador from MROO
(Municipal Retirees Organization of Ontario),
to
talk about the organization and support for municipal OMERS retirees.
There
is limited seating (up to 70 people) so it important to rsvp us by
email or phone asap. (already half full).
You
can contact me at johntvon@gmail.com or call 905 509-2953 or Roy at 416 261-0661.
Hope
to see you there.
Fraternally,
John
V
p.s.
The Port Perry lunches will start on the first Thursday of the month
in June through to October. Carl Roncetti in formed me that weather
permitting there will be a lunch on the first Thursday (3rd) in
May
Apr 11/18
Old Metro Pension Plan
Hello
Everyone,
This
notice
is to all Scarborough Fire Fighters (and widows) who
started prior to 1966 and are still receiving a portion of
the old METRO TORONTO PENSION.
As
you may already know this PLAN is being merged with the OMERS PENSION.
However
it must receive 75% vote to be accepted otherwise it will remain
as
the old METRO PENSION plan.
All
members
of this group will receive a minimum cash payment of $2500.00 with the
remainder being rolled into the OMERS plan.
The
deadline
for voting is May 15th. A non vote will be taken as a no vote,
so it is imperative than everyone vote.
For
further
information you can contact Paul Enright (Trustee on the metro board)
at 705 657-2101.
Please
share this with those who may not have access to the internet.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
April 5/18
Luncheon Reminder
Hello Everyone,
It's time for the last Winter Season
lunch at The Harp & Crown Pub in Pickering (Altona &
Kingston Roads). Date: Thursday April 12th. starting at 11:30. Cost
still only $10, Choices of corned beef sandwich, fish & chips,
chicken ceasor salad or chicken wings.
I'll have the usual Scarborough Fire
Fighter clothing and window decals available.
Bring a friend and enjoy the comradery. Hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John V
p.s. the Ladies lunch is again to be at
the Mandarin restaurant Pickering (Kingston Rd & Brock Rd S/E
corner) on Thursday May 10th. 11:30 am, we hope to have a guest
speaker coming from MROO.
Jan 6/18
20 Years Since...
Hello Everyone,
A belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I've been under the
weather with the flu since our last luncheon and just getting over it
now. (my wife
Vicki felt sorry for me so she decided to get it also, basically
ruined Christmas and new years for us.)
Enough of that, is everyone enjoying our heat wave, got to think
positive it's only 4 more months of cold weather!
With that, our 20th anniversary since amalgamation has arrived. Seems
like only yesterday.
So our next lunch will be to celebrate or should I say lament the
demise of the Scarborough Fire Department.
Not to worry the Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees are still going
strong.
(our Christmas Breakout lunch had about 70 of our retirees and active
members come out.)
Mark this on your calendar Thursday
January 11th to mark the occasion of 20 years after
amalgamation.
We'd like to get as many out as possible, it will be the usual winter
location that being: The Harp & Crown Pub at Kingston Road and
Altona Road in Pickering. Starting around 11:30 a.m. Cost for the
lunch is still only $10.
Here are some interesting statistical numbers since the
amalgamation with the City of Toronto.
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED SINCE 1998
--------------- 270
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters STILL ACTIVE SINCE 1998 ---------
190
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters DECEASED SINCE 1998
------------ 147
Other facts about Scarborough Fire Fighter Retirees:
TOTAL Number
of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED roughly -----------
400
AVERAGE Life expectancy of Scarborough Fire Fighters is still
only ------ 69.4 years
AVERAGE retirement years of Scarborough Fire Fighter is only
------------- 16.1 years ( I want to be liked Croft
Simpson who has 37.5 years in and still going)
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED over the age of 90
--------- 9
(the oldest is pushing 94, only a few years ago there was no one)
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED over the age of 80
--------- 58
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED over the age of 70
--------- 126
Number of Scarborough Fire Fighters RETIRED over the age of 60
--------- 150
I have roughly 340 on my email list and another 77 or so by phone and
still looking for another 180 or where I've lost contact.
If you are not on our email list let me
know and I'll add you in. email
johntvon@gmail.com or call me at 905 509-2953
Looks like we may be designated as an endangered species soon.
So come out one and all for the 20 year anniversary and share some
tales and good times with your comrades.
Free Retiree inside window decals for SPFF members at this
lunch.
As usual I'll have SFF clothing and other decals available for sale.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Oct 13/17
SPFF Retirees Update
Hello Everyone,
Just a quick note on
the happenings of the last six months.
The lunches (June to
October) were once again a big success, along with the June and
September Golf Tournaments with thanks going out to Ray Green and
John Barker for hosting them.
The May and October
Ladies lunches were also a big success with good attendance, it's a
great location to having it at the Mandarin.
Gord MacBride informed
me that two more of our deceased members were added to the
Provincial Fire Fighter Memorial at Queen's Park on Sunday October
1st. They are Ted Barnes and Dan Donnelly.
We are taking a break
for the month on November but our Winter lunches will resume in
Pickering at the Harp & Crown Pub on the second Thursday of the
month.
The first one will be
our Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees Breakout Christmas lunch
(Dec. 14th.) And we are planning a big celebration for the 20th
anniversary since amalgamation with Toronto (hard to believe it's
been that long), more info to follow!!!
On a last note there
was a good turnout for Cliff Ferguson's 90th birthday last Saturday
held at the Legion Branch 258.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Oct 1/17
Luncheon update
Hello Everyone,
Where did the Summer go
or should I say where the time go since it still feels like summer
and next week's forecast looks great for our last Port Perry Lunch.
The last Port Perry
Lunch for the Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees will be held at the
PUB on Water Street on Thursday October 5th. starting around 11:30
am.
Come out and see all
your old comrades for the last of the summer season.
Fraternally,
John V
P.S. More lunches
and dates to follow shortly.
The Ladies
Lunch will be held the following Thursday (October 12th.)
in Pickering at the Mandarin Restaurant with a guest
speaker from Encon Insurance.
For those approaching age 65 --- This is the perfect
opportunity to ask those questions regarding post 65 benefit
coverage available from Encon.
Retired or active everyone are welcome - hope to see you
there.
posted Sept 3/17
Benefit Concerns
Back in July an update on HCSA (Post 65 Benefits) was posted here.
Unfortunately it seems some may still not be receiving the package
from the City that was mentioned in that post. As a refresher... you
should receive something from the City one to three months before you
turn 65 regarding the post 65 benefits. If for some reason you do not,
the Toronto Fire Fighters Website has a Benefit Form you can fill out
to get assistance with benefit concerns/problems. Further to this
Kevin McCarthy, Benefit Chair and 3888 V.P. has advised that if at
anytime you have concerns with benefit coverage the use of this form
is the easiest and quickest way to get assistance.
So whether its a pre or post 65 concern please
go to TorontoFireFighters.org
and use the Green Benefit Button located about halfway down on the
right. (NOTE: you do not need to login to the site to use this form)
posted Aug 22/17
OMERS Education & Training
Life is full of choices. So is your pension.
There are still options available to you, even as you’re enjoying
your OMERS pension. Attend an OMERS Retired Member Information
Session to learn about the following and more:
• OMERS financial status
• OMERS bridge benefit and how it works with Canada Pension Plan and
Old Age Security benefits
• Investing in the OMERS Fund through Additional Voluntary
Contributions (AVCs)
• Survivor benefits
The session takes place on September 7, 2017 from 2:00
p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the
Civic Recreation Complex (Meeting Room 4 & 5) located
at 99 Thornton Road South, Oshawa. This free
session is available to retired members and their guests, and you’ll
have the opportunity to ask questions throughout.
To register for this or another upcoming session, click here or call OMERS Client Services at
416.369.2444 or 1.800.387.0813.
See you there!
Regards,
OMERS Education & Training
posted July 27/17
August Lunch Reminder
Hello Everyone,
Yes it's time for our
monthly retirees lunch, whether retired or still active, all are
welcome. So come on out and reconnect over food, drinks and
conversation.
What: Scarborough Fire Fighter Retirees Lunch
Location: THE PUB on Water Street in Port Perry.
Date: Thursday August 3rd. starting around 11:30 a.m.
I'll also have SPFF
clothing, window decals etc. on hand.
See you there.
Fraternally.
John V
posted May 21/17
June Lunch Reminder
Hello Everyone,
It's time for the
Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees Port Perry lunch season.
The first one is
on Thursday June 1st. around 11:30 a.m.
Location: THE PUB on Water Street in Port Perry.
Mark your calendars for
a day of golf ---> Ray Green will have flyers for the upcoming Scarborough
Fire Fighters Golf on June 16th. (see LOCALLINE)
(email to follow with
details).
As usual I'll have
clothing etc. available.
Fraternally,
John V
posted May1/17
May Luncheon...
Hello Everyone,
Well spring is here and
our ladies lunch has been arranged again for the Mandarin Restaurant
in Pickering.
We have a private room
booked that will hold about 66 people.
Our guest speaker will be
our Chaplain Ron Nickle.
Here's the info for the lunch;
Location: The
Mandarin Restaurant Kingston Road and Brock Road (south/east corner)
in Pickering.
Date is: Thursday May 11th. Starting around 11:30 a.m.
Cost for lunch is $15.00 per person.
Please
RSVP as soon as possible as the room is already two thirds full.
Email John Vonk at
johntvon@gmail.com or call & leave a
message at
905 509-2953 or Roy Fletcher
at
416 261-0661.
Hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Feb 4, 2017
Local 3888 Retirement Seminar - POST 65 BENEFITS
As I have had a number of inquiries from retirees who are about to be
eligible for the HEALTH SPENDING ACCOUNT (aka Post 65 benefits) I have
reached out to Local 3888 for some further info that would endure the
test of time on this matter. To date I can offer the following
information regarding a Retirement Seminar on March 2, 2017 which is
to have a representative from The City's Benefits; as well as MROO who
will do a presentation on post-65 benefits. Space is limited so you MUST
use the link in the notice to RSVP. Now I just have to hope the link
works :) Please contact me via the contact page should their be a
problem.
A special thanks to Kevin for his assistance.
Union
Notice #17-010
|
|
Date: February
2, 2017
Subject: 2017 Retirement Seminar
To: All Members
The
Benefits Monitoring Committee is pleased to announce a
Retirement Seminar scheduled for Thursday March 2, 2017 at the
Fire Academy at 9:00am. Members who are close to retirement,
or any interested parties, are encouraged to attend to gain
some insight.
The
list of speakers will include a representative from
city benefits and a representative from OMERS. A
representative from MROO (the Municipal Retiree Organization
of Ontario) will do a presentation on post-65 benefits and how
to use the Health Spending Account.
Anyone
who will be attending should register online, in order to
provide the committee with an idea of the number of
participants.
To
register for this retirement seminar, please click on the link
below and submit the brief form:
http://www.emailmeform.com/builder/emf/tpffa/2017_Retirement_Seminar
Fraternally,
Kevin
McCarthy & James Reed
Co-Chairs, Benefits/Pension Committee
Toronto Professional Fire Fighters' Association
I.A.F.F. Local 3888
|
posted Feb 3, 2017
February Lunch
Hello Everyone,
Well winter's half over,
keep that snow away and we'll have it made.
Our next lunch
is Thursday February 9th at the HARP & CROWN
PUB, Kingston Rd & Altona Rd in Pickering, starting around
11:30, usual cost $10. All are welcome.
This will be your last
chance to order the Winter Jackets that I've offered for the last few
months.
The price is $200 in
advance with your order. It comes with the Scarborough Fire Fighters
crest and your seniority number.
(If you wish to add
the Retiree crest it is an additional $10).
I'll also have the other
usual clothing available along with window decals.
I've had some inquiries
about Retirees luncheon dates so I've listed them along with the
location for the 2017 year.
Second Thursday
January 12th. @ the Harp & Crown Pub Pickering
Second Thursday
February 9th. @ the Harp & Crown Pub Pickering
Second Thursday
March 9th. @ the Harp & Crown Pub Pickering
Second Thursday
April 13th. @ the Harp & Crown Pub Pickering
Second Thursday
May 11th. Ladies Lunch @ the Mandarin
Restaurant Pickering (Kingston Rd & Brock)
First Thursday
June 1st. @ the PUB on Water St. Port Perry
First
Thursday July 6th. @ the PUB on Water St. Port
Perry
First
Thursday August 3rd. @ the PUB on Water St. Port
Perry
First
Thursday September 7th. @ the PUB on Water St. Port
Perry
First
Thursday October 5th. @ the PUB on
Water St.
Port Perry
Second
Thursday October 12th. Ladies lunch @ the
Mandarin Restaurant Pickering (Kingston Rd
& Brock)
Note:
THERE WILL NOT BE A LUNCH IN NOVEMBER
Second
Thursday December 14th. Christmas Lunch @ the Harp &
Crown Pub Pickering.
Hope to see
you at the lunch on Thursday Feb. 9th.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Jan 7, 2017
January lunch
Hello Everyone,
Hope everyone had a good
Christmas and New Year, Yes it's time for our first Scarborough Prof.
Fire Fighters Retiree Club Luncheon.
Where:
at our usual winter location THE HARP & CROWN PUB Kingston Rd.
& Altona Rd. Pickering.
When:
Thursday January 12th, starting around 11:30 am.
Cost of the lunch
is $10.
Reminder, membership dues
are due for 2017 still only $10 annually.
Thanks to those who
mailed in their dues recently, hope we get more.
CLOTHING:
Yes, the winter jackets were a big seller, I'll still take orders
again with cash in advance ($200).
As usual I'll have T shirts, sweatshirts, hats. golf shirts and
toques for sale along with window decals
for: IAFF,
Scarb FF, Toronto FF, and Scarborough Retiree inside
and outside for the cost of 2 for $5.
The proceeds of
the clothing sales help keep the club membership dues down
and keep us solvent.
Thanks again and hope to
see you Thursday.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Nov 28/2016
Scarborough Fire Fighter Apparels
Hello Everyone,
I am now taking orders for
Scarborough Fire Fighter winter jackets with LOGO and your PERSONAL
seniority number.
They are made by the same
company (CANADA SPORTSWEAR) of the original order sold by Local 626
back in 1995.
They are made of leather
sleaves, melton cloth base, cadet leather collar, domed fasteners,
elastic cuffs
and excellent quality.
(better than the 1995 models which cost $140)
The cost of these are $200.00 to be paid
at time of ordering.
They come in sizes from
medium to 2XL.
I will have
samples available to try on at our retirees lunches and
retirement venues (Dec 1 & 8th.)
All other clothing including
winter toques, 'T' , sweat & golf shirts and hats will also be
available.
John
Vonk
(proceeds go to operate the Scarborough Retirees
Club and The Scarborough Fire (Hall #1) Museum)
posted Nov 25, 2016
Green Shield Change Over
As previously reported on October 21st (see below) the City of
Toronto is changing from Health and Dental coverage from Manulife to
Green Shield Canada (GSC). The effective date is January 1, 2017.
Please be aware of the following information...
Please note Green Shield Canada (GSC) has begun the
distribution of Welcome Packages to all IAFF Local 3888 members
and retirees enrolled in the City’s Health and Dental benefits
plan. These packages are being mailed directly to the members and
retirees home address and should be received by the third week of
December.
Each package will include the following:
• A Welcome Letter
• A GSC Health Card
• A Blank Claim Form
IAFF Local 3888 members and retirees enrolled in the City’s
benefits were sent a prepopulated enrolment form in October. The
enrolment form included the members name, address, date of birth
and related dependents as captured with in the City’s SAP system.
Members and retirees were requested to review, sign and return the
form to PPEB. Information on how to add dependents who were not
included on the enrolment form was provided.
PPEB staff are currently processing changes that were identified
on the returned enrolment forms. Due to timing, the GSC Health
Card within the Welcome Package may not reflect submitted changes.
An updated GSC Health Card will be mailed once the submitted
changes have been processed.
Members and retirees who have not received a GSC Welcome Package
by the end of December are to contact their PPEB representative in
January.
Please contact either Ligaya Pascual,
Supervisor Benefits and Employee Service at 416-392-8098
posted Nov 2, 2016
HCSA - aka post 65 benefits
2017
will see about 18 or so retirees who will turn 65. With that milestone
those eligible will be looking to the Health Care Spending Account to
continue their benefits. Lately there have been a few looking for
information on this move so this is posted as a reminder. A while ago
Dave Spence was good enough to share the experience he had when he
made the switch. If
you or someone you know will be making the switch the info provided
by Dave may be a good place to start - just follow this link to get
there. Other info/links maybe found there as well. Good Luck...
posted Oct 21/16
L3888 Benefit Provider Change
Did you retire from the Toronto Fire Service. Do you still have
benefits through the City of Toronto. If so please be aware that the
City of Toronto is changing carriers. Effective January 1, 2017, Green Shield
Canada (GSC) will replace Manulife as the City of
Toronto's Health and Dental benefits provider. Manulife will continue to
provide coverage for Group Life, Optional Life, Accidental
Death and Dismemberment, and Long-Term Disability (LTD). You
should receive communication from the City in the near future. Until
then the notice from 3888 President Frank Ramagnano will
shed some light on what you may expect and should do.
|
Date: October
19, 2016
Subject: Verification
of Enrolment in Extended Health and
Dental Benefits Plan
To: All
Members
Effective January 1, 2017, Green
Shield Canada (GSC) will replace Manulife as the City of
Toronto's Health and Dental benefits provider.
Manulife
will continue to provide coverage for Group Life,
Optional Life, Accidental Death and Dismemberment, and
Long-Term Disability (LTD).
The
current level of health and dental benefits you are
entitled to receive under the collective agreement will be
maintained. We will defend not only our contractual
benefit items, but we will also defend past practice, in
terms of process and benefits.
The City
has sent you an Enrollment Form that is
pre-populated with the information the City currently has on
file and it is the information that will be
provided to GSC for enrollment in the benefit plan. We
have had meetings with the City with regard to the need for
the form. The city made some concessions, but they wanted to
issue the form. The form does not need to be completed for
you to have benefit coverage. However, not filling it
out may cause a delay to benefit
reimbursement.
In
preparation for the move to GSC, all eligible
employees and retirees are encouraged by the
City to review and, where applicable, modify
the information shown on the
enclosed GSC Enrolment Form as follows:
▪ Please
review for accuracy, sign and return to Pension, Payroll and
Employee Services (PPEB)
▪ If
you are an employee or retiree with family
coverage, please note that dependents listed on
the enclosed enrolment form will be enrolled
in benefits with GSC.
▪ If
the information on the Enrolment Form is NOT correct, you
MAY amend the information, sign and return to PPEB, OR
rely on the information currently on file with Manulife.
▪ To add
a spouse or dependent(s) not listed on the enrolment form
and who have not been previously enrolled in the benefits
plan with Manulife, you are required to participate in
'positive enrolment'.
▪ To
add a spouse or dependent(s) who have previously been
enrolled through Manulife, but who are not reflected
on the enclosed GSC enrolment form you may either:
o Participate
in positive enrolment and provide proof of eligibility to
ensure your spouse/dependent(s) have continued coverage as
of January 1, 2017, OR
o Request
the City to validate the enrolment via Manulife.
Note: This option may result in a delay in
reimbursement.
▪ Return
the signed form, along with a copy of any required
documentation, via one of the following
methods: email, inter-office mail, Canada Post,
Metro Hall PPEB Office drop box or in person at an upcoming
enrollment session.
It is recommended that you contact the Chair of our
Benefits Committee, Kevin McCarthy, if you experience any
issues with regard to benefits affecting spouse or
dependant(s). Situations may occur where
validating with Manulife may be the best method, as
opposed to the City's positive enrollment option.
Also,
for the authorization box at the end of the form,
we recommend that you add the line; “I
do not authorize the sharing of my personal health
information”.
The
Association has taken every measure to ensure our members'
benefits and benefit practices have been protected and
maintained. Including, but not limited to, filing a
grievance against the city with regard to altering past
practices.
Any
concerns with regard to deadlines imposed by the city,
please contact your City of Toronto representative listed on
the notice provided in your enrolment package.
Any
concerns with regard to the form, please contact our
Benefits Committee Chair, Kevin McCarthy.
Fraternally,
Frank
Ramagnano
President
Toronto Professional Fire Fighters' Association
I.A.F.F. Local 3888
|
posted Oct 4/16
MROO Mtg.
Hello Everyone,
Just to let everyone know that there will be a Municipal Retirees
Organization of Ontario zone meeting on Tuesday October 11th.
Location is the Ajax Convention Centre, 500 Beck Cres. (hwy401 &
Salem) RSVP: to Email
mroo@istar.ca Website
www.mroo.org or call 1- 800
595-4497.(leave phone # and spell your last name).
Registration starts at
9:15 am and meeting 10:00 am. includes lunch and finishes around
3:30. These are very informative meeting giving info on OMERS,
health care benefits, insurance etc.
I urge newer retirees and
those looking for post 65 health & travel benefits to attend this
meeting.
NOTE: you need to be a member to attend - if you're not a member you
can sign up at the door for a one time fee of $25.00
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Oct 1/16
SPFF Retirees Ladies Lunch
Hello Everyone,
The regular schedule for
the Scarborough Fire Fighters Retirees is back to the south on the
second Thursday of each month for the fall and winter.
(There won't
be a lunch in November. And for the lunches from December
through April they will again be held at the Harp & Crown Pub in
Pickering ).
The first will be the SPFF RETIREES LADIES LUNCH on
Thursday October 13th. Starting around 11:30 AM.
The location is the MANDARIN RESTAURANT in Pickering on the
south side Kingston Road just east of Brock Road.
We have a separate room booked for this event so there should be
plenty of space, however please call Roy or Gord to make reservations.
Our guest speaker will be our own Paul Atkinson to inform us on the
procedures of WSIB claims after retirement.
The cost for this lunch will be $30 per couple for members, and $40
for per couple for non-members.
(I will be away on
vacation for this event so) Please Contact Roy Fletcher at
416 261-0661 or Gord MacBride at
905 294-7173 for reservations.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Oct 1/16
Port Perry Lunch - October 6th
Again just a reminder
for the last Port Perry Lunch of the season, I've checked the
weather forecast and it looks to be sunny
with some clouds and a high of 18C. Still good enough to sit
outdoors.
Date is Thursday
October 6th. Location is THE PUB on Water Street in Port Perry
Starting time around
11:30 am.
I'll have Scarborough
Fire Fighter clothing available for this final outdoor lunch.
Hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Aug 24/16
Newsletter/Lunches
Hello Everyone,
Well the summer is quickly passing by and I think we've all had
enough of the heat already. (till January of course).
Anyway our September lunches are coming up and yes we'll be
having two lunches for both September and
October, so put these dates on your calendar.
The first will be our Port Perry Lunch being held on
Thursday September 1st. starting around 11:30 am at the PUB
on Water Street in Port Perry.
The second will be held back in Scarborough
on Thursday September 8th. starting around 11:30 on the
patio of the STONE COTTAGE PUB at the N/E corner of
Kingston Rd. & Scarborough Golf Club Rd.
(This will be an informal lunch the same as in Port Perry).
For October the Port Perry lunch will be held for the last
time of the season on Thursday October 6th. same time and
location (weather permitting).
Our Ladies lunch for this fall will be held in Pickering
at the MANDARIN RESTAURANT on Kingston Rd just east of Brock
Rd. for Thursday October 13th. starting again at 11:30.
Our Guest speaker will be our
own Paul Atkinson to inform us of WSIB claims and how to proceed
with them even after retirement.
The cost of this lunch will be $30.00 per couple for SPFF RETIREE
CLUB dues paid members and $40.00 for non-members.
(I will be away on vacation for the ladies lunch so) Contact Roy
Fletcher at 416 261-0662 or Gord MacBride at 905 294-7173
for reservations.
And last but not least, don't forget about the September 30th GOLF
TOURNEMENT in Port Perry.
If you are planning to attend
Contact Ray Green at 905 985-5031 or John Barker at 905 853-7293
Cost for this event is $65
(dinner only $25).
Hope to see you soon and enjoy the rest of the summer.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted May 4, 2016
May (Ladies Lunch) Reminder
Just a quick reminder about the May 12th Ladies Lunch. There are only a
few seats left for this event so please
respond ASAP.
SPFF RETIREES LADIES LUNCH
THURSDAY MAY 12th.
Location will be: Sabina's Casual Dining & Pub in a reserved
private room (formerly 'The Courtyard Restnt' and 'Papps')
(Same location as our October lunch) 1755 Pickering Parkway (N/E corner
of Brock Rd & Hwy 401. in Pickering)
Our guest speaker will be M. JANE MCCARTHY of the PALTER, MCCARTHY LAW
FIRM
to inform us on wills, estate planning, executor changes and other legal
matters.
Starting time is the usual 11:30 and a cost of $20.00 per couple $30.00
for non-members for the lunch.
There is limited seating (60 maximum) so book early as the room
will fill quickly.
Please email me at johntv@sympatico.ca asap or call Roy Fletcher at 416
261-0661
or John Vonk at 905 509-2953 to reserve a space.
Also SPFF RETIREE SUMMER LUNCHES PORT
PERRY
The summer lunches will once again move to Port Perry on the FIRST
Thursday of the month. For the dates of June 2nd , July 7th,
August 4th, September 1st, and October 6th.
The location is The PUB on Water Street in Port Perry. Usual starting
time of 11:30.
Hope to see you there.
John Vonk
posted Apr 21/16
Retirees April Newsletter
Hello Everyone,
The following are some of the events coming up soon.
SPFF RETIREES LADIES LUNCH
THURSDAY MAY 12th.
Location
will be: Sabina's Casual Dining & Pub
in a reserved private room (formerly 'The Courtyard Restnt' and
'Papps') (Same location as our October lunch) 1755
Pickering Parkway (N/E corner of Brock Rd & Hwy 401. in Pickering)
Our guest speaker will be M. JANE MCCARTHY of the PALTER,
MCCARTRHY LAW FIRM
to inform us on wills, estate planning, executor changes and other
legal matters.
Starting time is the usual 11:30 and a cost of $20.00 per couple
$30.00 for non-members for the lunch.
There is limited seating (60 maximum) so book early as the room
will fill quickly.
Please email me at johntv@sympatico.ca asap or call Roy Fletcher at
416 261-0661
or John Vonk at 905 509-2953 to reserve a space.
SPFF RETIREE SUMMER LUNCHES PORT
PERRY
The summer lunches will once again move to Port Perry on the FIRST
Thursday of the month.
For the dates of June
2nd, July 7th, August 4th, September 1st, and October 6th.
To be held at the PUB on Water Street in Port Perry. Usual starting
time of 11:30.
UPDATE RE: REV. RON NICKLE CONDITION
I received the following email from Gord MacBride regarding Ron's
condition sent from Ron's wife Sharon.
Hi Gord:
You probably know that Ron’s heart valve, implanted 12 years ago, was
failing. It became quite critical, quite suddenly, and Ron had
surgery to insert a new heart valve last Friday. (he was scheduled for
Tuesday, but he would not have survived that long). It is
done like an angiogram through an artery in the leg, so no open chest
this time. The surgery went well, but it is taking him a bit
longer to recover because of all the problems he had prior to
surgery. With the old valve failing, he had congestive heart
failure, kidney failure, fluid in the lungs, and a host of other
issues, caused by the leaky valve.
At present, he’s up and around, walking without any assistance.
As I understand it, the doctors are pleased with the functioning of
the new valve; his kidneys and lungs are working properly again, and
he feels at least 100% better than a week ago. He still needs to
regain some strength and stamina, but we’re hoping to have him home
soon, possibly even tomorrow.
Please tell the guys that he appreciates their concern and
support, but please also tell them not to overwhelm him with phone
calls. He still has a problem with coughing when he tries to
talk much, particularly talking on the phone, so I’m going to be the
(w)itch guarding the phone to keep him from getting tired out.
Give him a couple of weeks and he’ll be more sociable.
Meanwhile, once he is home, he can certainly answer his own emails,
and would likely be happy to hear from anyone.
Thanks, Gord.
Sharon
OTHER EVENTS
SPFF SPRING GOLF TOURNEMENT PORT
PERRY FRIDAY JUNE 17th.
Ray Green will be running the upcoming golf tournament and has asked
to have anyone interested in making foursomes for this event. It will
be held at the Sunnybrea Golf Club in Port Perry. Ray is presently
making his way back from Arizona. More details of contact information,
times, location and cost will follow.
RAY COOK'S 80TH BIRTHDAY PARTY
Ray's surprise birthday party is being held at the Sunderland Legion
this Saturday April 23rd. from 1 to 4 pm.
Location is 104 River Street. Sunderland.
RETIREMENT -- congrats to
FRANK QUAST on his retirement as of March 31 2016
PAUL DZUBA RETREMENT PARTY
TUESDAY APRIL 26.
Paul s retirement party scheduled for Tuesday April 26th 2pm at the
Harp & Crown Pub Pickering (Altona & Kingston Rd.)
Paul was an ADC at 231 (hall 7) and then promoted to full DC at 212
November 2009 (the new hall on Sheppard near the zoo).
Retirement Party for Platoon
Chief Trevor Trotter
Date: Thursday, April 28, 2016
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258
45 Lawson Road, Scarborough
Come and wish Trevor farewell and thank him for his service!
ticket price includes gifts for Trevor and light snacks Cost: $20.00
per person
Toronto Fire Services in partnership with the Toronto
Professional Fire Fighters’ Association invite you to the 16th
Annual Toronto Fallen Firefighter Memorial Service on
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Memorial Service: 1:00
pm – 2:15 pm Reception to follow Harbourfront Fire Station
334 339 Queen’s Quay West
posted Mar 3/16
March Lunch Reminder
Hello Everyone,
Yes March is here and coming in like a lion, but don't fret it'll
be warm and sunny for our
March 10th lunch, I guarantee it!
Our monthly luncheon is scheduled at the usual time and location being:
THE SCARBOROUGH PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS RETIREE LUNCHEON;
DATE: THURSDAY, MARCH 10th.
starting around 11:30 am
LOCATION: THE HARP & CROWN
PUB Kingston Rd. & Altona Rd Pickering.
Still only $10 for lunch, and don't forget to pay your dues for 2016
(also still only $10 annually since 1992.)
Clothing will also be available for sale. (Toques, hats, 'T' shirts
etc.)
Please let us know if you will be attending so we an inform the Harp
& Crown.
Contact John Vonk email at johntv@sympatico.ca or call 905 509-2953
or Roy Fletcher at 416 261-0661.
See you there.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Jan 31/16
February Lunch
Hello Everyone,
Our monthly luncheon is scheduled at the usual time and location
being:
THE SCARBOROUGH PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS RETIREE LUNCHEON;
DATE: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11th.
starting around 11:30 am
LOCATION: THE HARP &
CROWN PUB Kingston Rd. & Altona Rd Pickering.
Still only $10 for lunch, and don't forget to pay your dues for 2016
(also still only $10 annually since 1992.)
Clothing will also be available for sale. (Toques, hats, 'T' shirts
etc.)
Please let us
know if you will be attending so we an inform the Harp &
Crown.
Contact John Vonk email at johntv@sympatico.ca or call 905 509-2953
or Roy Fletcher at 416 261-0661.
We had great turnouts for the December and January lunches.
Hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Jan 6/16
January Luncheon
Hello Everyone,
Yes it's time for our first 2016 SPFF Retiree Lunch.
Date: Thursday January 14th. 2016.
Where: At the Harp & Crown Pub Altona &
Kingston Rd. Pickering
Time: Starting around 11:30
a.m.
Cost: Still only $10.00.
Please email me if you you will be attending at johntv@sympatico.ca
or call and leave a message with Roy at 416 261-0661 or John at
905 509-2953. This is to get a rough count for the staff a the Pub for
our lunch.
Gord MacBride will not be attending as he just had a hip replacement
yesterday.
There will also be new clothing for sale, namely toques with our logo.
I also have the DVDs from the Haunted House ( 84, 85 & 86)
available for the
price or $10.00 or your membership renewal for the year.
Hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John V
posted Jan 2/16
Fire Fighters Health Care Spending Acct.
Welcome
to 2016 - There is no doubt that overtime the information that's
been obtain on the HCSA (Post 65 benefit) will eventually get buried and those interested
will have to scroll endlessly looking for it. So to make it easy to
access it will have its own page. A link has been placed on the 'HOME'
page near the bottom under 'More Features'. Also should more
information be obtained that will help make the process clearer and
maybe even easier it will be added to the page.
posted Dec 29/15
Fire Fighters Health Care Spending Acct. (Post 65 Benefit)
As
mentioned previously, at the December breakout lunch
I was ask a number of times if I knew how to apply for the Fire Fighters
Health Spending Acct. (referred to by some as 'Post 65 Benefits'). It
became apparent that there was very little information regarding the
accessing of this benefit. As a result I contacted Sandra Soon Sr.
Benefit Rep with the City of Toronto resulting in the following. As
outlined in the following form (link) it appears Manulife will process
claims for post 65 benefits. Please take the time to refer to this
document on the Health
Care Spending Account (HCSA) Applicable to Retired Fire Fighters Post
65 (you should be able to print this from your computer?) Note -
any unused amount does
not get carry over to the following year. Apparently once you
reach entitlement at age 65, you can pay as you go or purchase a plan. MROO and Manulife
are examples of where
coverage may be purchase (do your homework).
Since contacting Sandra Soon, Dave and
Pam Spence have passed along their experience and the information
garnered when he applyed for the HCSA (Please follow
this link for Daves information).
REMINDER
- Sandra Soon advises that should you have difficulty figuring out how
to manuever the HCSA you can contact the following City of Toronto Reps
for direction.
Stephanie
Caines (A to
M) 416 397 4563 scaines@toronto.ca
Lucy
Kozieja (N to
Z) 416 392 8121 lkoziej@toronto.ca
Again its hoped that this will be of assistance to those eligible for
the HCSA and you dont find yourselves.... 
Happy New Year and all the best in 2016
Chuck
Posted Dec 6/15
2016 OMERS Increase
OMERS announced that pensions will increase by 1.16% as of January
1, 2016. This increase reflects the change in the cost of living as
measured by the Canadian Consumer Price Index (CPI).
OMERS inflation protection increases retirement, disability and
survivor pensions each year. OMERS uses a similar method to that used
by the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) to calculate its annual increase for
pensions, but CPP has a different rounding approach.
In late December 2015, OMERS will send an Annual Statement of
Pension to members and survivors, with their updated pension
amount for 2016. Members whose pensions began in 2015 will receive a
pro-rated increase.
How the Annual Increase is Calculated
Here’s how this year’s increase was calculated:
CPI average 12 months (Nov
2014 to Oct 2015) – 1 x 100
CPI average 12 months (Nov 2013 to Oct 2014)
126.26 – 1 x 100 =
1.16% (rounded to two decimal places)
124.81
(from OMERS.com)
posted Dec 6/15
Breakout Reminder
2015 SCARBOROUGH FIRE FIGHTERS CHRISTMAS BREAKOUT
LUNCH
Just a
reminder for the annual Scarborough Fire
Fighters Christmas Breakout LUNCH.
It's to be held on Thursday Dec. 10th starting at
11:30 a.m. lunch is still only $10.00.
To be held at
the usual location the HARP & CROWN PUB, located
at Kingston Rd & Altona Rd (N/E corner) in Pickering.
All are welcome and I expect that the festivities will
last well ino the afternoon or later.
Please let us know
if you will be attending so I can give the Harp & Crown a rough
estimate number for the lunch. Please email me at
johntv@sympatico.ca or call
905 509-2953
or call Roy at 416 261-0661 and leave a message.
DUES ARE DUE
Our Treasurer, Gord
MacBride will be accepting dues to the club for our 2016. Again still
only $10.00 per year.
Again, Roy will again have the Scarborough LIONS Christmas
cakes available.
I will have Scarborough
FF CLOTHING and window decals on hand.
I will also
have SPFF Haunted House charity drives DVDs
on hand for the years of 1984, 1985 and 1986. Anyone who particpted in
these events know how much fun we had and the money that was raised
for the Scarborough General Hospital Burn Unit. It's a great 2 hour
video, well worth watching.
Al Adams documented these events in 84, 85 and 86 on video
tape and his wife Lynn transferred them to dvd format and gave to
me a copy at the October lunch. I thank Lynn for doing this as it is a
great part of our Scarborough firefighter history and is greatly
appreciated. After getting these I, in turn made several
dozen copies . Anyone interested in getting a copy you can contact me
at the luncheon. The only charge I ask is that you pay your
annual dues ($10) or $10 cash donation t kee the SPFF retirees museum
and club afloot.
OMERS Pension
increase for 2016 is 1.16% .
This amounts to
roughly $50.00 per month depending on when you retired, years of
service, rank and best 5 years.
Looking forward to seeing you at Luncheon.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Nov 26/15
Christmas Breakout
Hello Everyone,
December is almost here and it's time for the Scarborough Fire
Fighters Christmas Breakout LUNCH. It's to be held on Thursday
Dec. 10th starting at 11:30 a.m. at the usual location the HARP &
CROWN PUB, located at Kingston Rd & Altona Rd in Pickering. All
are welcome.
Let us know if you will be attending, You can email me at johntv@sympatico.ca
or call 905 509-2953 or call Roy at 416 261-0661.
Roy will have the LIONS Christmas cakes available and I will have
Scarborough FF clothing on hand.
On another note, remember 30 years ago we held the SPFF Haunted House
charity drives at the training grounds. Well, Al Adams documented these
events in 84, 85 and 86 on video tape and his wife Lynn transferred them
to dvd format and gave to me a copy at the October lunch. I thank
Lynn for doing this as it is a great part of our Scarborough firefighter
history and is greatly appreciated. After getting these
I, in turn made several dozen copies . Anyone interested in getting
a copy you can contact me at the luncheon. The only charge I
ask is that you pay your annual dues ($10) or $10 cash. It's an
interesting two hour dvd.
Looking forward to seeing you at Luncheon.
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Oct 28/15
November Luncheon
Hello Everyone,
Just a note to let you know that there will NOT
be a retiree luncheon in November.
However, get ready for our big Christmas
BreakOut Lunch on Thursday December 10th.
starting at 11:30 and ending whenever:
At the usual winter location: The Harp & Crown Pub in Pickering
(Altona & Kingston Rd). The cost is still $10 for the lunch.
Will send a reminder closer to the date.
Fraternally,
John V
posted September 15, 2015
Retirees Newsletter
Hello Everyone,
This is to inform you of the limited seating for the upcoming
Ladies Lunch. (60 maximum) and booked room is half full already. Please
email me at johntv@sympatico.ca asap or call
Roy Fletcher at 416 261-0661 or John Vonk at 905 509-2953 to reserve a
space.
The October Ladies Lunch will
be held on Thursday October 8th.
again starting at 11:30 am.
Location will be: Sabina's Casual
Dining & Pub in a reserved private room (formerly 'The
Courtyard Restnt' and 'Papps') (Same location as our May
lunch)
1755 Pickering Parkway (N/E
corner of Brock Rd & Hwy 401. in Pickering)
(Note if you are exiting eastbound on hwy 401 at Brock Rd. you can
only go south due to brige construction, if you are coming from the west
I would recommend exiting at White's Rd north and taking hwy 2 Brock Rd.
south or south and taking Bayly St. to Brock Rd. north)
We will have David Martidale as speaker coming from the MROO ENCON
Group Insurance to talk about post 65 Health, Dental and Travel
insurance.
The reason for this is Encon is be holding a special Guarateed
Enrollment offer for MROO Members (Municial Retirees Organizaion of
Ontario) Health, Dental and Annual Travel Insurance Plans. This is a one
time offer available from Setember 1st to October 31st. 2015 only.
It will allow those under the age of 75 (up 76) who have not signed up
in the past to join with no medical questionnaire.
We will have updated insurance packages available at the luncheon.
We hope to see you there.
Fraternally,
John V
posted September 9, 2015
Sue Brown / Ladies Bowling
C4 Centre Bowling Ladies League are a fun, low
key group of ladies who enjoy meeting up at 10:00 on a Tuesday
morning. Cost is $15.00
per session. We have
several fire fighters wives (Fran Keeler, Phyl Lukewich, Pat White,
Marg Padley) in the league (myself included) and are looking for
more ladies to build up the league.
The Centre is located at Brimley and Eglinton.
A banquet is held at the end of the season (May) and the
cost is included in the $15.00 week rate.
We have a lot of fun and there is no serious competition. I
won one of the worst bowlers prizes last year - but I did have a lot
of fun. We usually (the fire group) go out for lunch
after.
Those interested can give Sue a call @
905-509-9456 and/or sbradbrown@gmail.com
Thanks
Sue
posted August 25, 2015
Retirees Newsletter
Hello Everyone,
Well summer is quickly passing by,the CNE has started and in two
months our snowbirds will be migrating south.
Luncheons: The next
PORT PERRY lunch will be held on Thursday September 3rd. at
THE PUB on Water St. starting around 11:30.
The last lunch was the biggest turnout we've had to date in Port
Perry with close to 50 people showing up. There were some faces
there that I hadn't seen for a loooong time. So come
out and enjoy the camaraderie and old tales.
The last PORT
PERRY lunch will be held on Thursday October 1st. same
time & location.
If you miss the Port Perry Lunch we are back with our regular
luncheons in Scarborough.
The regular lunch will be returning on the second Thursday
being
September 10th. starting at 11:30.
The location is the patio of THE
STONE COTTAGE PUB on Kingson Rd &
Scarborough Golf Club Rd. (north east corner). Scarborough.
We hope to see you there.
The October Ladies Lunch will be held on Thursday October 8th. again starting
at 11:30. Roy and I are working on the location for this Lunch and
will inform you later. We will have speaker coming from MROO ENCON
Group Insurance to talk to you about post 65 Health, Dental
and Travel insurance.
The reason for this is that Encon
will be holding a special Guarateed Enrollment offer for MROO
(Municial Retirees Organizaion of Ontario) Health, Dental and Annual
Travel Insurance Plans.
This is a one time offer available from Setember
1st to October 31st. 2015 only.
It will allow those
under the age of 75 who have not signed up in the past to join with no
medical questionnaire.
We will have updated
insurance packages available at any of the above luncheons.
Fraternally,
John V
posted June 8, 2015
August Luncheon REMINDER
Hello Everyone,
Just a reminder about the next Scarborough Fire Fighters
Retirees lunch:
Where: THE PUB IN PORT PERRY on Water street
When: Thursday August 6th. around 11:30 am.
Who: All Scarborough Fire Fighters Retired and Active are
welcome.
On another note I'd like to welcome Rick (Chuck) West #549 to our
group.
Chuck retired July 31, 2015 with 35 years service. (How fast the time
went!!!)
Fraternally,
John Vonk
posted Jun 8, 2015
TFS F/F's Memorial Wreath
Presentation
William (Bill) D. Crawford, died
Mar. 2, 2015. Recognized
as Line of Duty Death his was one of the many names
added to the memorial this year. On
Sunday June 7th. Gord McBride and John Vonk attended the Toronto
Fire Fighters Memorial. Together they presented a wreath in
remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
posted May 23, 2015
Port Perry Luncheons
The Port Perry Luncheons are a go for the first
Thursday of each month starting June 4th and going through till October.
They will take place at the usual location - The Pub on Water Street,
starting around 11:30am. The SPFF Retirees will not
be holding lunches for June, July and August, but will resume in
September on the second Thursday (Sept 10/15).
posted May 23, 2015
Retirees Newsletter / FireFighters Memorial
The Scarborough Prof. Fire Fighters Retirees will be participating in
the upcoming June 7th. Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Service Gord
MacBride and I will be laying a wreath on behalf of our fallen
members.
Below is a list of the 19 names of SFD members who were
recognized as LODD.
1. FF Alex Budd Nov 21,
1957: 2. Capt. John
Wilde Aug 29, 1960: 3.
FF Joe Kennedy Aug 29, 1960: 4.
FF Pete Van Kirk May 2, 1967: 5.
FF Gord Smith May 16, 1974: 6. FF
Pat Cleveland July 13, 1989: 7.
Capt. John MacFarlane Aug 29, 1996: 8. Capt.
Joe Truax July 15, 1997: 9.
A/D/C Roger Holmes Aug 10, 1999: 10.
Capt. Jim Arnold Nov 6, 1999: 11. A/C
Jeff Spencer Feb 6, 2001: 12. Capt.
Dave Kennedy Oct. 5, 2003: 13. FF
Bill Smith Feb 5, 2005: 14.
Capt. Brian Whitehead June 15, 2005: 15.
Dep/Chf Ross Forfar Sept 1, 2005: 16.
D/C John Lalonde Feb 2, 2010: 17. D/C
Jim MacDonald July 6, 2011: 18.
Capt. Neil Harrison Feb 24, 2014 and 19.
FF Bill Crawford Mar 2, 2015.
15TH Annual Toronto Fallen Fire
Fighters Memorial Service
On Sunday, June 7, 2015 Toronto
Fire Services and the Toronto Professional Firefighter's Association
will host the annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service. Six names
will be added this year.
Captain Terry Haworth, died June 20, 2008
Firefighter David E. Obrien, died Oct. 30, 2013
District Chief John Anktell, died Feb. 15, 2014
Firefighter Bruce B. Statton, died Aug 20, 2014
District Chief John D. Roach, died Aug, 2014
Firefighter William D. Crawford, died
Mar. 2, 2015 (former SFD)
The ceremony will take place at:
Location:
Harbourfront Fire Station #334
339
Queen’s Quay West (behind Station #334, east of Spadina)
Time:
11:00 to 12:15 hours
Reception
to follow
Parking:
Exhibition Place Lot 6
This
is your opportunity, along with friends and family of the fallen, to
honour the memory of Firefighters who have paid the ultimate
sacrifice, while serving the citizens of Toronto.
All
Toronto Fire Service personnel are cordially invited to attend,
march, and show their respect.(Full dress uniform/white shirts).
Hope to see you there.
John Vonk
posted May 5, 2015
Reminder - May Luncheon
Hello Everyone,
Just a reminder to let
you know that the space for this luncheon is limited and filling
quickly, so please letus know as soon as possible if you plan to
attend.
The SPRING LADIES LUNCH will be held on Thursday, May 14th 11:30 am. at a new location
- Sabina's
Casual Dining & Pub (formerly the Courtyard or Papp's
restaurant).
We chose Sabina's casual
fine dining restaurant since it has a private room for our use.
Its located at the Ridge Mall 1755
Pickering Parkway unit 20 - North East corner ofBrock Road and
Highway 401 in Pickering (right
across
from the Amish Furniture & Aren't We Naughty stores) (That
shouldhelp everyone!!!)
For all the recent
Retirees we will have a guest speaker from OMERS (Mr. Martin Diokno)
to talk about AVC's (additional voluntary contributions) which
returned 10% interestlast year as a investment opportunity.
Cost of the lunch for members is $20.00 per couple and $30.00 per
couple for non members
All are welcome to
attend, however there is limited seating for this luncheon
(maximum 70 people) solet us know ASAP if you will be attending by
email at johntv@sympatico.ca
or calling John at 905 509-2953 or Roy at 416 261-0661.
John Vonk, Roy Fletcher
& Gord MacBride
posted Apr 15, 2015
Retirees Newsletter/May luncheon
Hello
Everyone'
Just a heads up to let you know that the SPRING
LADIES LUNCH will be held on
Thursday, May 14th at a new location - Sabina's
Casual Dining &Pub (formerly the Courtyard or Papp's
Restaurant) Located at the Ridge
Mall 1755 Pickering Parkway, Unit #20 - North East corner of Brock
Road and Highway 401 in Pickering.
(right
across from the Amish Furniture & Aren't We Naughty stores)
(That should help
everyone!!!)
We chose
Sabina's casual fine dining restaurant since it has a private room for
our use.
For all
the recent Retirees we will have a guest speaker from OMERS (Mr.
Martin Diokno) to talk about AVC's (additional voluntary
contributions) which returned 10% interest last year as a investment
opportunity.
Cost of the lunch for members is $20.00 per couple and $30.00 per
couple for non members
All are welcome to
attend, however there is limited seating for this luncheon
(maximum 70 people) so let us know ASAP if you will be attending by
email at
johnv@sympatico.ca or
calling Roy at 416 261-0661.
I will be away for
the rest of this month.
MORE NEWS
The April luncheon
was a big success with a lot of new retirees attending along with the
returning snowbirds.
The Port
Perry Lunches (the Northern Chapter) will be starting in June
on the First Thursday of the month, location to be verified but
probaly the same spot (the Pub on Water St).
Dave Cossitt
informed us that the the final tally for the Moonlight
Benefit Fund (Ella & Landon) was $6,079.40 raised by the
TORONTO PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTERS CELTIC SOCIETY. This along with our
Donation of $800.00 plus an additional $200.00 private donations came
to a total of $7,079.40 . Our thanks go out to all those who
participated in this fund raising event .
All the best,
John, Roy
& Gord
posted Apr 4, 2015
Retirees Newsletter - April
Hello Everyone,
Mark this on your calendar.
Next Thursday April 9th is
our monthly Scarborough Professional FireFighters Retirees Lunch.
At our usual location the Harp & Crown Pub in Pickering (Altona
& Kingston Rd).
Starting at around 11:30 am. Still only $10 for lunch.
I expect the snow birds will returning soon or on their way.
Anouncements
The SPFF Retiree Club has made a donation of $250.00 to the Tony Stacey
Centre (Legion Branch 258) retirement home, which is in need of a new
roof. They are looking at a bill of $250,000 for this maintenance
project.
The Ryan Moonlight Benefit Hockey game was big success with a big
turnout and lots door prizes. Our thanks go out to the organisers
(Dave Cosett and crew) for their fine work.
The SPFF Retirree Club made a donation of $800.00 to the Ella &
Landen Trust Fund on the retirees behalf.
The weather is finally improving so we hope to see you at next
thursday's lunch.
Regards,
John V
P.S. Please email or call if you will be attending the lunch.
John Vonk johntv@sympatico.ca
905 509-2953
Roy Fletcher 416 261-0661
posted Mar 8, 2015
Retirees Newsletter/update
Hello Everyone,
Spring is almost here and we're into daylight savings time. Great, now
we can look at the snow that's yet to melt until 7:30 in the
evening.
SCARBORouGH
PRO.FIREFIGHTERS
RETIREES LUNCH
THURSDAY MARCH 12th. starting at 11:30 am AT THE HARP & CROWN
PUB
Kingston Rd & Altona Rd in Pickering
Still only $10.00
Let me know if you are coming, email me at: johntv@sypatico.ca
or call John Vonk at 905 509-2953. Please don't leave a message with Roy
Fletcher this time, since he's in the hospital (Tues. march 10) getting
himself a new right knee. He picked this for his birthday
present which is this Thursday. Happy
74th. Roy
JOHNNY WALKER MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
I was informed by Rob Reid that John Walker was hit by a truck while
riding his motorcycle
in Florida recently. He's out ICU now but is awaiting an air ambulance
to take them home (Canada) to hospital and rehab.
They said he flatlined on the scene of the accident but brought him
back, 5 broken ribs, punctured lung, broken shoulder, concussion and
road rash... John has no brain damage is speaking and lucid. We
don't know what hospital he'll be in yet at home.
ERIC COTTER RETIREMENT
Eric has finally retired after 40 years with Scarborough &
Toronto Fire.
There will be a retirement for him on Friday
Apil 3rd. starting at 7:00 pm at the Harp& Crown Pub, Kingston
Rd & Altona Rd Pickering.
JIM
CRUMMEY & KEN LESLIE RETIREMENT REMINDER
Tuesday March 10th.2 p.m. at the
Harp & Crown Pub
FUNDRAISER HOCKEY GAME
FOR RYAN MOONLIGHT'S KIDS (ELLA
& LANDON)
Reminder of the fundraiser hockey game at the Canlan Arena 159
Dynamic Dr.
Scarborough Thursday March 26th. at 12:30
Contact Dave Cossitt at email d.cossitt@hotmail.com
or call 905 449-2373
SAINT PATRICK'S DAY PARADE
SUNDAY
MARCH 15TH. 12:00 pm
Meet at
the Adelaide Station #332 transport to start between 10 &
11:30
Peameal breakfast sandwiches available.
Reception to follow at grace O'Malley's pub 14 Ducan st.
REMINDER: SPFF
CLOTHING IS AVAILABLE AT OUR RETIREES LUNCH
T shirts, sweatshirts, golf shirts, hats and
window decals
I would also ask that you keep me informed if
you a have a change of email address or phone #. Keeping
members current contacts is the most difficult job. New
members or any changes email me at johntv@sympatico.ca .
Check out Chuck West's
website for updates and happenings -
www.scarboroughfirefighters.org
That's all for now, see you at the luncheon
on Thursday.
John Vonk
posted Mar 2, 2015
GTMAA 40th Anniversary
Hello Everyone,
The following notice is for the 'Greater Toronto Multiple Alarm
Association'
After 40 years of service to the Fire Fighters of Toronto and
the previous 6
fire deparments of Toronto, I encourage you to come out and say thank
you for
their support for the all the calls on those long cold nights and
sweltering days.
From the Scarborough Professional Fire Fighters Retirees Club
We congratulate them for their dedication and long voluntary service
to all totonto
Fire Fighers.
John Vonk, Roy Fletcher
Co-Presidents SPFF Retirees
The Greater Toronto Multiple Alarm
Association
is celebrating our
40th.
40th ANNIVRSARY DINNER, SATURDAY, APRIL 4TH. 2015
AT THE CANADIANA RESTAURANT SIX
POINTS PLAZA
KIPLING AND DUNDAS
GUEST
SPEAKER, DOOR PRIZES, 50/50 DRAW, GTMAA HISTORIC
SLIDE PRESENTATION
COCKTAILS
@ 6:00 PM (CASH BAR) DINNER SERVED @ 7:00 PM
TICKETS $40.00 PER PERSON
YOUR COICE OF BEEF, CHICKEN, SALMON OR VEGETARIAN.
BECAUSE OF THIS VERY SPECIAL EVENT WE ARE ASKING FOR THOSE THAT
HAVE
PLEASE WEAR YOUR DRESS UNFORM.
RSVP BY MARCH 23, 2015 Email:
thewignalls@sympatico.ca
with questions or rsvp.
posted Feb. 5, 2015
February Newsletter/Reminder
Hello Everyone,
Just a short note about next week's Scarborough Firefighters
Retirees Lunch.
At the usual spot, The Harp & Crown Pub, at Kingston Rd &
Altona Rd in Pickering.
Thursday February 12th. starting around 11:30.
There was a great turnout for Ron Wretham & Dennis Thompson's
retirement last Tuesday,
It was great seeing so many old faces, we wish Ron & Dennis many
years of health and happiness. We are looking forward to seeing
them at our luncheons.
All the best.
John V
posted Feb. 3, 2015
A Letter from Sharon and Bruce Moonlight
Hello Everyone,
I received the following letter from Sharon & Bruce
Moonlight and was asked
to pass it on to our SPFF members.
Once again we wish Bruce, Sharon & Family our deepest
condolences in their
Ioss of
Ryan.
A
letter from Sharon and Bruce Moonlight
In memory of Ryan, donations may be made to a family trust for Ella
and Landon:
RBC 07842-003-5098017
David & Lindsay Moonlight
In Trust for Ella & Landon Moonlight
John V
Posted Dec 13, 2014
OMERS Pensions to Increase by
1.80% in 2015
OMERS announced that pensions will increase by 1.80% as of January 1,
2015. This increase reflects the change in the cost of living as
measured by the Canadian Consumer Price Index (CPI).
OMERS inflation protection increases retirement, disability and
survivor pensions each year. OMERS uses a similar method to that used
by the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) to calculate its annual increase for
pensions, but CPP has a different rounding approach.
In late December 2014, OMERS will send an Annual
Statement of Pension to members and survivors, with their
updated pension amount for 2015. Members whose pensions began in 2014
will receive a pro-rated increase.
How the Annual Increase
is Calculated
Here’s how this year’s increase was calculated:
CPI
average 12 months (Nov 2013 to Oct 2014) – 1 x 100
CPI average 12 months (Nov 2012 to Oct 2013)
124.81 – 1 x 100 =
1.80% (rounded to two decimal places)
122.60
OMERS
NEWS
Posted Dec 12, 2014
Welcome to the new Retirees page. It is hoped you are enjoying the
new changes to the site. Going forward we will endeavour to post
information and events received from John Vonk, Roy Fletcher and
others. If you are looking for something that may have been posted
previously the old page can be accessed through the link to the
right. If you have something that may be of interest please feel
free to pass it along.
Posted Dec 12, 2014
Well the weather certainly impacted the turnout for this years
Christmas breakout. For all those that made the trek to the Harp
& Crown it was still an ejoyable time seeing those we haven't
seen for a while. If it was just catching up, or reminicing,
discussing new found love, social media consequences, and even
recent political changes, everyone seemed to have a good time. Once
again the food was good and the commeraderie even better. The next
get together will be the second Thursday in January - we hope to see
you there.
Posted Dec
4, 2014
Hello Everyone,
Just a
reminder that December is here and we'll be
holding our annual
SCARBOROUGH FIREFGHTERS CHRISTMAS BREAKOUT LUNCH
at the
Harp & Crown Pub (in Pickering Altona Rd &
Kingston Rd) on THURSDAY
December 11th. starting 11:30 am. (and finishing
at ????)
Along with this the Scarborough Lions Club will be selling their
christmas cakes.
All Scarborough FireFighters (retired & active)
are invited. Cost of the lunch
is $10 PLEASE let me know if you will be attending for the
LUNCH as I need a
head count for the kitchen staff at the Harp &Crown by no
later than Monday
December 8th.
email me at johntv@sympatico.ca or call
905 509-2953 or Roy Fletcher at
416 261-0661.
Come out and see your friends and make this the biggest reunion
ever.
(last year we had 100).
I will also have Scarborough FireFighter
clothing available for the afternoon,
consisting of 'T' shirts, sweatshirts, golfshirts,
hats and SPFF & IAFF window
decals.
Regards:
John Vonk and Roy Fletcher
