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Margaret Dorothy Irons— November 20, 2024
Margaret Dorothy Christmas, born June 29, 1934, died very peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Margaret was the beloved daughter of the late Harry and Grace Wright of Kingston, treasured sister of Ed Wright of San Luis Obispo, California, sister-in-law of the late Norah Wright, wife of the late Stan Christmas, the centre of her universe, and incredible Mama Bear to her son, the late Graham Irons, and daughter, Alison Irons (Greg Watson). Upon her marriage to Stan, she became a "Bonus Mum" to his four children, Kathy, Stan, Leona and Steve. Since they lost their mom far too soon, Marg became the only grandmother their children ever knew. Marg was known as "Nanny", in the English tradition, or more fondly as "Nane" to her 15 adored and adoring grandchildren and her 7 great-grandchildren, taking pride in their accomplishments, celebrating their milestones, making sure Christmases and birthdays were all remembered. Mum loved and enjoyed her family above everything in her life. And what a life! As a child evacuated from London, England during the World War II Blitz, she was brought home early by her Mum and lived out the rest of the war in London, with many exciting and terrifying experiences. She immigrated to Kingston with her first husband and children, but the marriage never recovered from the "fresh start" it was supposed to have been. Margaret became a sole support parent to her two children. Unlike many sole support families whose standard of living declines after divorce, Margaret earned her Certified General Accounting (CGA) Diploma and kept increasing her earnings and improving her jobs. A proud day was landing a job as the first female manager in Ontario's CAAT system at St. Lawrence College (as Marg Irons). Margaret eventually became responsible for Pay and Benefits for all 3 campuses of the College, driving through all seasons among the them. Ultimately, she handled non-faculty labour relations and arbitrations for the College, often travelling to Toronto. She and the women she worked with at St. Lawrence became solid friends, and remained so for the rest of their lives, her best friend being our deeply-loved Rita Bell (the late David Bell). Mum loved the College and remained proud of her career and St. Lawrence until her death. Meanwhile, she had met Stan. But after her first marriage, Mum, as fiercely independent as she was, refused to get married again. The two finally tied the knot at home 26 years later, to the infinite joy of their children! Margaret took early retirement from St. Lawrence, then studied for and earned her Fashion Design diploma and became a St. Lawrence alumna. The two started a successful business, Christmas Steel, together, and loved boating on the "Maggie Blue", named for Mum, in the 1,000 Islands during the summer and wintering at their home near St. Pete's, Florida. Sadly, the death of her beloved son Graham in 2011 and the femicide of her precious granddaughter Lindsay in 2013, hastened Alzheimer's Disease, of which there'd already been early signs. Dad, Alison and Kathy took tremendous care of Mum, ensuring Dad got breaks from his primary caregiver role. When Dad received his brutal terminal cancer diagnosis at the age of 84, it became impossible for Kathy and Alison to care for both at home. A broken hip from a fall sent Mum to hospital and ultimately to the wonderful Bayshore Transitional Care Unit in Amherstview, where she stayed until her death. The family wishes to extend its deepest, heartfelt thanks to managers and ALL the Bayshore staff who took such superb, loving, compassionate care of Mum and treated Alison so kindly, especially surrounding Margaret's death. There is NOWHERE else Mum could have been treated with so much love and stellar care from nursing staff at EVERY level on Floors 1 & 2. A special thank you to Housekeeper Katie, who truly loved Mum, talked to her and visited her all the time, and often said she wanted to take her home. The family will receive friends at the Township Chapel of the Gordon F Tompkins Funeral Homes 435 Davis Drive, for a visitation on Tuesday November 26, 2024 from 12:00 until 1 p.m. The funeral service in Celebration of Margaret's Life will be held in our chapel following the visitation at 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Glenhaven Memorial Gardens. Memorial donations, for those wishing, may be made to St. Lawrence College Student Emergency Fund. Online book of Condolences www.GFTompkins-Township.ca. _________________________________________
Wharf & Feather
Holiday Inn, Kingston Waterfront 2 Princess Street, Kingston __________________________________________________
We couldn't play golf on Sept. 3,
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In making the presentation at the Annual General Meeting on May 16, 2024, Nancy Sudac, on the right above, outgoing vice-president of the Retirees Association, spoke of Claire’s dedication to colleagues, students and the community at large. ”As a parent, nurse, neighbour, professor, union steward, and an ongoing backbone to our Association, it’s fitting,” says Nancy, “that the word CARE, suitably is the big part of Clare.”
A native of Picton, Ontario, Clare graduated from Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. She studied nursing at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and went on to teach at Kingston School of Nursing, which joined with St. Lawrence College in 1973.
Nancy remembered that in retirement, Clare offered valuable time and expertise in marking student papers, mask-fit training and testing, and was called upon to guide and mentor nursing students.
Nancy told how Clare delivered unending duties to our Association—"as Secretary/Treasurer for years too numerous to count, supplying sandwiches and other goodies to our Coffee and Conversations, and Golf tournament, sending Sympathy Cards to families of our deceased members.”
Clare’s leadership and support of Kingston Minor Hockey lasted many years and is a credit to her community commitment.
Nancy recalled that “during our first faculty strike, you had the foresight to offer your home as a daycare centre for children of our faculty, while their Moms and Dads walked the picket line. During another strike, you would prepare and serve lunch and warm drinks in the Root Cellar.”
With colleagues Bill Kirby and Shirley Parent, Clare helped form our association in 2005.
A native of Picton, Ontario, Clare graduated from Prince Edward Collegiate Institute. She studied nursing at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and went on to teach at Kingston School of Nursing, which joined with St. Lawrence College in 1973.
Nancy remembered that in retirement, Clare offered valuable time and expertise in marking student papers, mask-fit training and testing, and was called upon to guide and mentor nursing students.
Nancy told how Clare delivered unending duties to our Association—"as Secretary/Treasurer for years too numerous to count, supplying sandwiches and other goodies to our Coffee and Conversations, and Golf tournament, sending Sympathy Cards to families of our deceased members.”
Clare’s leadership and support of Kingston Minor Hockey lasted many years and is a credit to her community commitment.
Nancy recalled that “during our first faculty strike, you had the foresight to offer your home as a daycare centre for children of our faculty, while their Moms and Dads walked the picket line. During another strike, you would prepare and serve lunch and warm drinks in the Root Cellar.”
With colleagues Bill Kirby and Shirley Parent, Clare helped form our association in 2005.
Some of the attendees at the AGM
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Looking back 20 years
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Bistro Stefan, Best Western Fireside Inn
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At the SLC Retirees' Christmas Party
at Bistro Stefan on November 22
The SLC Retirees' Christmas Party at Bistro Stefan on November 22 was a heartwarming and lively gathering. Adorned with festive decorations, the venue created a perfect setting for attendees clad in our festive attire.
The crackling fireplace provided a cozy backdrop for reconnecting with former colleagues, complemented by an abundance of appetizers.
Clare Rayner's thoughtful homemade sweets added an extra touch of warmth and joy to the festivities. A birthday tribute to Wanda Williams, added an extra surprise to the afternoon’s festivities.
Wishing you all the best for the holidays!
The crackling fireplace provided a cozy backdrop for reconnecting with former colleagues, complemented by an abundance of appetizers.
Clare Rayner's thoughtful homemade sweets added an extra touch of warmth and joy to the festivities. A birthday tribute to Wanda Williams, added an extra surprise to the afternoon’s festivities.
Wishing you all the best for the holidays!
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October 24th, 2023Portsmouth Tavern, 96 Yonge Street, Kingston
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FRAUD AWARENESS & PREVENTION |
Image by Freepik
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Presentation by
Paul VanNest sponsored by Rotary Club of Kingston |
Preventing fraud against seniors requires
awareness and vigilance, Paul Van Nest told members of the SLC Retirees Association gathered at the
Best Western Motel in Kingston on September 29th.
Fraud against seniors is a particularly heinous and prevalent type of financial exploitation. It involves deceptive or manipulative practices aimed at taking advantage of older individuals, typically those aged 60 and older, for financial gain. Perpetrators of elder fraud can be strangers, family members, caregivers, or professionals.
Here are some common methods through which fraud is perpetrated against seniors:
Here are some common methods through which fraud is perpetrated against seniors:
- Telemarketing Scams: Scammers often use phone calls to target seniors. They might pose as representatives from legitimate organizations, such as government agencies or charities, and request personal information or money.
- Phishing Emails: Seniors may receive phishing emails that appear to be from trusted sources, asking for personal or financial information. These emails can contain links to fake websites that steal sensitive data.
- Mail Fraud: Fraudsters can send fake invoices, lottery scams, or phony prize notifications through the mail to deceive seniors into sending money or providing personal information.
- Romance Scams: Perpetrators create fake online dating profiles and establish fake romantic relationships with seniors, eventually requesting money for various reasons, such as emergencies or travel.
- Investment Scams: Seniors may be targeted with fraudulent investment opportunities promising high returns. Scammers may use fake documents and aggressive sales tactics to persuade them to invest.
- Home Improvement Scams: Fraudsters offer home repair or improvement services at inflated prices. They may request upfront payments and then perform shoddy or incomplete work or disappear entirely.
- Healthcare Scams: Scammers can pose as healthcare providers, insurance agents, or Medicare representatives, attempting to steal personal information or bill for fake services or products.
- Family or Caregiver Exploitation: Unfortunately, some cases involve family members or caregivers who misuse their access to seniors' financial resources, coercing them to provide money or assets.
- Fake Charities: Fraudulent charities targeting seniors often solicit donations for fake causes. These scams can occur over the phone, in person, or online.
- Grandparent Scams: Scammers call seniors, pretending to be a grandchild in distress and requesting immediate financial assistance.
- Tech Support Scams: Fraudsters claim to be tech support representatives, warning seniors of computer issues or viruses. They request remote access to the computer and charge for unnecessary services.
- Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams: Seniors may receive notifications claiming they've won a lottery or sweepstakes but need to pay fees or taxes to claim their winnings. These winnings do not exist.
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Ron Robinson, Steve Graves and Jerry Zabel organized
the SLC Retirees Annual Golf Tournament for 25 years.
the SLC Retirees Annual Golf Tournament for 25 years.
The founders were presented with certificates
to mark the event
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Each also received a crystal golf ball
bearing the engraved message
“Thanks for the memories from the SLC Retireees”
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Bragging rights go to the team of John Anderson, John Eby, Dorothy Campbell & Barry Keefe at 4 under par, followed closely by the team of Brad Hill, Brian Cox, Steve Graves & Jerry Zabel at 1 under par! Paul Van Nest had “his best game in awhile” no don’t due to his teammates Pennie Carr-Harris and Patti Cox while Verna Lee, Nancy Sudak, Rich Hogan and Janet Reid played a fun loving nine. A great time was had by all!
Held each year at The Landings Golf Club on the Tuesday following Labour Day, the event celebrates 1) the return of the College’s students to classrooms; and 2) the freedom that retirees.enjoy by not having to show up at the College.
The event this year was as popular as ever and the 19th hole gathering attracted many non-golfing members who welcomed the opportunity to gather with old friends.
Held each year at The Landings Golf Club on the Tuesday following Labour Day, the event celebrates 1) the return of the College’s students to classrooms; and 2) the freedom that retirees.enjoy by not having to show up at the College.
The event this year was as popular as ever and the 19th hole gathering attracted many non-golfing members who welcomed the opportunity to gather with old friends.
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Lake Ontario Park Pavilion
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A massive thank you for coming out to our Strawberry Social and making the event an absolute blast!
The plump and juicy strawberries! Paired with the sponge tarts, heavenly ice cream and fluffy whipped cream, made for a mouthwatering treat on that sunny day under the pavilion. Second and third helping were served. |
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A big shout-out to all those who pitched in, to make our event a success. A special thank you to our volunteers Ken Reid and Elizabeth for all your help:) You guys are rockstars!
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Annual General Meeting |
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TUESDAY, MAY 16, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 11:00 a.m. by Pennie Carr-Harris, president of the association, “We had a great year in 2022-23. We had five events over the year and 130+ members and guests attended.”
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Thanks were extended to Janet Reid who was responsible for adding the fifth event—the very successful Strawberry Social! “We are grateful for her bountiful energy,” says Pennie.
The five events will be repeated in 2023: June – strawberry social, Sept – golf tournament & 19th hole gathering; Oct – pub night at the Portsmouth House; Nov – Holiday gathering; May – AGM
The five events will be repeated in 2023: June – strawberry social, Sept – golf tournament & 19th hole gathering; Oct – pub night at the Portsmouth House; Nov – Holiday gathering; May – AGM
On the issue of the Golf Day, Pennie thanked Ron Robinson, Steve Graves and Jerry Zabel who organized the golf event for the first day of each school year for years!
“For TWENTY FOUR years actually,” says Pennie. “They informed us after last years tournament that they wish to retire! Deservedly so! They agreed to have the Retirees Association take the reins! An honour and a privilege … to try to fill their shoes.”
“For TWENTY FOUR years actually,” says Pennie. “They informed us after last years tournament that they wish to retire! Deservedly so! They agreed to have the Retirees Association take the reins! An honour and a privilege … to try to fill their shoes.”
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Thelma Mott, Treasurer,
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The C.R. Tindal Award of Merit 2023
This award was created by the 2019-2020 Executive to recognize members of the Association who have not only contributed to the success of SLC but also shown exceptional support of the SLC Retirees Association. Dick Tindal was the first recipient in 2021.
The honour this year was awarded to Bill Kirby
The honour this year was awarded to Bill Kirby
...who demonstrated leadership as coordinator of the BST program both locally and provincially, was a key supporter and contributor to the development of the degree program in Behavioral Sciences.
In presenting the award Pennie Carr-Harris, president of the SLC Retirees Association, recognized Bill’s leadership in the development of our Association. “Bill is the Founder of our Association. He was the leader in getting the Association 'off the ground'. He was our first 'webmaster', helping retirees to receive information online. He has remained an active, thoughtful, dedicated contributor to the Association at the Executive level ever since.
“Bill attends most of our events, if not all, and encourages others to do so. He always makes sure everyone feels welcome. He is a gentle soul with unquestionable ethics.”
In presenting the award Pennie Carr-Harris, president of the SLC Retirees Association, recognized Bill’s leadership in the development of our Association. “Bill is the Founder of our Association. He was the leader in getting the Association 'off the ground'. He was our first 'webmaster', helping retirees to receive information online. He has remained an active, thoughtful, dedicated contributor to the Association at the Executive level ever since.
“Bill attends most of our events, if not all, and encourages others to do so. He always makes sure everyone feels welcome. He is a gentle soul with unquestionable ethics.”
Bill is congratulated by Dick Tindal, first recipient of the C.R.Tindal Award
The man in the hat arranged to make a stop in Kingston on May 29, before he left to visit family near Peterborough and in Toronto. The photo, proceeding from the left, front side of the table, shows Jack Breault, Dick Tindal, Tom & Pat Harpell, David Craig & Barb Carr, the guest of honour (under the hat), Susan Tindal, and Anne Breault. There was lots of lively conversation and laughter.
(ANSWER: He is David Schleich!)
(ANSWER: He is David Schleich!)
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Brockville Retirees...
Some of the Brockville Campus “SLC RETIRED LADIES” were happy to reconnect on Wednesday January 4 at Chateau Brock in Brockville to share memories and enjoy each other's company again. Nola Kendall reports that the next planned event will be held in JUNE 2023
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Tuesday, November 22, 2022
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The holiday season came early this year for SLC retirees. We mixed and mingled at Tom’s Place, snacked at the buffet table and gave generously to the Partners in Mission Food Bank. A good start to Christmas and time to wish bon voyage to snowbirds. See you in the Spring!
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We gathered at The Ports
at the venerable Ports on October 18, scene of many a gathering of SLC folks over the decades. Members and guests dropped in for a chat with friends. It was a very nice event .
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Annual September Golf Tournament and 19th Hole
Social Get-together Tuesday September 6, 2022
at The Landings
The 24th Annual St. Lawrence College Retirees Golf Tournament, organized as always by Steve Graves and Jerry Zabel, was held on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 (the first day of classes) at The Landings Golf Course.
The "19th hole" gathering in The Landings Clubhouse at the conclusion of play, was organized by the SLC Retirees Association. Golfers and non-golfers gathered to enjoy some snacks, good conversation and a cash bar. A donation of $10 helped to offset the cost of the food.
The "19th hole" gathering in The Landings Clubhouse at the conclusion of play, was organized by the SLC Retirees Association. Golfers and non-golfers gathered to enjoy some snacks, good conversation and a cash bar. A donation of $10 helped to offset the cost of the food.
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Let this happy little cartoon character
take you to humorous material submitted by our members |
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Tuesday, June 28th, 2022 1:30pm - 3:00pmLake Ontario Park Pavillon
920 King Street W, Kingston |
What can be said about the Strawberry Social?
It was tasteful? It certainly was tasty!
It was a colourful event? Red, white and orange on the green background that is Lake Ontario Park in Kingston! The strawberry strawberries were picked fresh at Fruition Farm and heaped on smooth white Breyers natural vanilla ice cream and spongy orange-coloured mini flans.
“It takes a team and we did it very well, even second helpings!” says Janet Reid, captain of the team, refusing to name those who enjoyed thirds. “Clare Rayner was all around cheerleader, collecting funds, distributing name tags and garbage patrol. She never quits!! The Incredible servers were Nancy, Pennie, Joan Gardiner and Elisabeth.”
The final word? Yummy!
It was tasteful? It certainly was tasty!
It was a colourful event? Red, white and orange on the green background that is Lake Ontario Park in Kingston! The strawberry strawberries were picked fresh at Fruition Farm and heaped on smooth white Breyers natural vanilla ice cream and spongy orange-coloured mini flans.
“It takes a team and we did it very well, even second helpings!” says Janet Reid, captain of the team, refusing to name those who enjoyed thirds. “Clare Rayner was all around cheerleader, collecting funds, distributing name tags and garbage patrol. She never quits!! The Incredible servers were Nancy, Pennie, Joan Gardiner and Elisabeth.”
The final word? Yummy!
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SLC Retirees Association
2022 Annual General Meeting
May 18, 2022
Cataraqui Golf and Country Club
Some of the members attending the 2022 AGM (from the top): Chuck Molson, Bill Kirby, Dick Tindal, Paul Van Nest, Barb Carr, David Craig, Brenda Charette, Ron Kelly, Clare Rayner, Pennie Carr-Harris, Thelma Mott, Orla Myrfield and Nancy Sudak.
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The last (15th) “Do You Remember” scenario
was posted (and correctly answered).
The contest is being retired (at least for now) but you can see the Scenarios and the responses they generated by clicking on the Contest link in the Navigation Bar at the top of the page.
was posted (and correctly answered).
The contest is being retired (at least for now) but you can see the Scenarios and the responses they generated by clicking on the Contest link in the Navigation Bar at the top of the page.
The “Do You Remember” series of scenarios were developed by 3M (our Mystery Memory Maven – aka Humble Scribe—aka Dick Tindal)
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The Book of Memories
highlighting the first half century of SLC has been published!
You can read an electronic copy HERE
Or order a printed copy with a click of this button
You can read an electronic copy HERE
Or order a printed copy with a click of this button
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No Rocking Chair Yet!
Volunteering
Many, many retirees are actively volunteering
throughout the community.
Here is Dick Tindal's surprising
REPORT
You can reach the Volunteer page anytime
by clicking on the drop-down tab Volunteers
under Bulletin Board
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We are an organization dedicated to facilitating contact between former staff members of St. Lawrence College. Our focus is primarily on social activities but we also advocate on matters of interest to our members, including pensions.
We organize and host events throughout the year: Spring Coffee House, Strawberry Social, Golf Tournament & 19th Hole, Pints @ the Ports, and a Holiday gathering with the AGM Social finale. Spouses & family are always welcome!
Quite a deal for a $10.00 annual fee OR take advantage of the $100 life-time fee.
WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?
•Stay connected with former colleagues and friends
•Help your transition into retirement with fun activities
•Opportunities to stay engaged in the SLC community
•Volunteer and leadership opportunities
We organize and host events throughout the year: Spring Coffee House, Strawberry Social, Golf Tournament & 19th Hole, Pints @ the Ports, and a Holiday gathering with the AGM Social finale. Spouses & family are always welcome!
Quite a deal for a $10.00 annual fee OR take advantage of the $100 life-time fee.
WHATS IN IT FOR YOU?
•Stay connected with former colleagues and friends
•Help your transition into retirement with fun activities
•Opportunities to stay engaged in the SLC community
•Volunteer and leadership opportunities
Members of Executive
(Elected at the 2023 AGM)
(Elected at the 2023 AGM)
- Pennie Carr-Harris, President
- Charlene Mastin, Vice President
- Thelma Mott, Treasurer and Membership
- Janet Reid, Administrator
- Ron Kelly, Webmaster
- Bill Kirby, Founder and Director at Large
- Clare Rayner, Director at Large
- Nancy Sudak, Director at Large
- Dick Tindal, Director at Large
Pennie, Charlene, Janet, Ron. Bill, Clare, Nancy and Dick
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Your CAAT Plan pension includes many valuable benefits, and the CAAT Pension Plan fall webinar series gives you the opportunity to learn more about the pension you are earning. Learn about it HERE
SLC Retirees
very latest
Retiree Reflections,
Ruminations, and Ramblings (R4)
Issue # 22
September, 2022
Read it HERE
Produced by Dick Tindal
To read other recent Reflections, Ruminations and Ramblings
click on the links below:
Issue # 21 July, 2022
Issue # 20 May, 2022
Issue #19, April 2022
Issue # 18, December 2021
Issue #17 November 2021
Issue # 16 September2021
Issue # 15 June 2021
Issue # 14 May 2021
Issue #13, April 2021
Issue #12, March ,2021
Issue#11, January 3, 2021
Issue #10, November 24, 2020
Issue #9, July 7, 2020
Issue # 8, June 23, 3030
Issue #7, May 8, 2020
Issue #6, April 19, 2020
click on the links below:
Issue # 21 July, 2022
Issue # 20 May, 2022
Issue #19, April 2022
Issue # 18, December 2021
Issue #17 November 2021
Issue # 16 September2021
Issue # 15 June 2021
Issue # 14 May 2021
Issue #13, April 2021
Issue #12, March ,2021
Issue#11, January 3, 2021
Issue #10, November 24, 2020
Issue #9, July 7, 2020
Issue # 8, June 23, 3030
Issue #7, May 8, 2020
Issue #6, April 19, 2020
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Have you renewed your membership this year?
Just a reminder to delinquent members that we would really appreciate your $10 renewal.
Please forward your cheque, payable to St. Lawrence College Retirees’ Association, to:
St. Lawrence College Retirees’ Association
c/o Thelma Mott, Treasurer/Membership
100 Inverness Crescent, Kingston, ON, K7M 6N7
If you know of a retiree who might be interesting in joining our Association, a membership form is available below.
Please forward your cheque, payable to St. Lawrence College Retirees’ Association, to:
St. Lawrence College Retirees’ Association
c/o Thelma Mott, Treasurer/Membership
100 Inverness Crescent, Kingston, ON, K7M 6N7
If you know of a retiree who might be interesting in joining our Association, a membership form is available below.
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Click on the card above to read St. Lawrence College before IT
a Voyageur column by Dick Tindal
a Voyageur column by Dick Tindal
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Root Cellar Memories
Dick Tindal's Retiree Association column in a recent issue of Voyageur focused on the Root Cellar and its role in the rich social life of the college in the early decades. Dick issued an invitation to our members to share their memories of this venerable site. He is pleased to pass along this contribution from John Mason which illustrates the extensive volunteer activities of early Root Cellar members.
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