In getting ready to write this message, I did some research. I read the messages from Cathy Telfer and Adriann Pieters, my immediate two predecessors. In both cases, there was mention of snow. I do recall that we had some serious snow in late 2010, with people stranded overnight on highway 402. So it is with much delight that I enjoy this snowfree weather in the first weeks of January, 2012. Of course, having taught for 30 years in Sioux Lookout in North Western Ontario, where there was usually snow on the ground by Halloween, and -400C was not uncommon, most winter weather “down south” here in Chatham Kent is good winter weather. I do admit that fog in January is still a bit hard to handle and it is too damp! I also know that many of our members are enjoying much nicer weather in a wide variety of warm locales all over the world. The joys of retirement!

As is traditional, this issue details the Travel Committee’s plans for the coming year. I hope that you will consider taking part in one or more of these well-planned, fun excursions.

Congratulations go out to Emily Taylor, daughter of District 33 member John Taylor. Emily was awarded a $1000 RTO/ERO Scholarship to attend a faculty of education in Canada.

A few years ago, the results of a member survey showed that our members were active volunteers in over 70 organizations within Chatham-Kent. I remember being very impressed and proud to be part of such an active group. I am certain that our members continue to be actively involved in their community, wherever they may reside in Chatham-Kent. At our Semi-Annual meeting in May, we will be honouring a few of our members for their fine efforts as volunteers. If you know of a fellow member who is deserving of this recognition, please contact Joanne Murphy, 2nd VP.

Our Semi-Annual meeting takes place on Wednesday, May 23. Our guest speaker will be Gordon Cressy, the Director of Advancement and Fundraising for the new RTO/ERO Charitable Foundation. Gordon is a wonderful speaker and will bring us up to date on the Foundation and the fundraising initiatives that Gordon and his Board have in place. We are going back to a luncheon format for this meeting, based on feedback from members.

Our “Bell” breakfast will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 4. If you have not attended any of our District meetings lately, why not join us for breakfast and help us welcome and congratulate our new retirees. I originally became involved in RTO/ERO to meet some new folks, who shared common interests. I certainly have never regretted that decision.

Paul Brown, President