KIT Magazine - Fall 2018

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 30 | No. 2 | Fall 2018 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | info@rtam.mb.ca | www.rtam.mb.ca

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 30 No. 2 • Fall, 2018

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

RTAM Calgary Chapter

Contents Report of ACER-CART AGM....................................................................................4 2018 – 2019 RTAM Committees List......................................................................5 Your Pension Committee At Work...........................................................................6 Wellness Advocacy Committee Plan For 2018 – 2019.............................................6 Political Advocacy...................................................................................................7 KIT 2018 - 2019....................................................................................................8 Benefits Committee................................................................................................9 My Trip To An ER Under The New Emergency Regime In Winnipeg..........................10 TRAF Restricted Surplus Regulation......................................................................11 Norm Gould, President of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, Speaks at the Rally for Public Education ..........................................................12 Thank you, Brenda!..............................................................................................14 Your Health Care Directive, Power Of Attorney, Wills and Help..............................15 Calgary Chapter's Lethbridge Adventure...............................................................16 RTAM – Okanagan Chapter..................................................................................17 WREA Summer Excursion.....................................................................................19 Thompson Chapter Continues Its Retirement Tradition...........................................22 A Teacher Affects Eternity: She Can Never Tell Where Her Influence Stops..............23 Retired Women Teachers’ Association...................................................................24 Manitoba Biennial Award of Excellence.................................................................25 Manitoba Alpha Delta Kappa, April 28, 2018........................................................25 ART FROM THE ATTIC! ........................................................................................28 80 Years To Celebrate...........................................................................................29 NOTICES & COMING EVENTS...............................................................................31

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 204-889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: info@rtam.mb.ca • www.rtam.mb.ca Editor-in-Chief: Doreen Sage Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Email: dsage@mymts.net Executive Director: Mary-Anne Slegers Member Services Coordinator: Nicole Welwood Board of Directors 2018-2019 President: Joan Dawson Vice -President: Peggy Prendergast Secretary: John Sushelnitsky Treasurer: Carol Pelton Past President: Rosalie Bornn Directors-at-Large Raymond Bisson Pat Bowslaugh Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen JoAnne Hoyak Alison Logan Ken Malcolm Vel McAdam Doreen Sage Linda Scott Ray Sitter Beth Smith Design: Gayl Punzalan Creative Director, Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images : freepik.com and pixabay.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Cover by C. Sage / Riding Mountain National Park, MB Copyright © 2018 by RTAM

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by November 07, 2018, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies or views of RTAM. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RTAM, 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5

PRESIDENT’S REPORT

G Joan Dawson RTAM President 2018 - 2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

reetings to all KIT readers, especially to the newly retired members who are receiving their first copy of KIT. In May, we had a very successful Chapter Presidents’ Meeting and AGM. Thank you to everyone involved in making these meetings such a success. Thank you especially goes to our very dedicated office staff, our Executive Director, Mary-Anne Slegers, and Nicole Welwood, our Member Services Coordinator, who put in hundreds of hours making sure that all of the details were looked after. Also, a big thank you goes out to Dorothy Young, our independent chair for the AGM, for making the meeting go so smoothly and efficiently.

Summer is winding down and hopefully fall will provide relief from this year’s challenges of extreme heat, severe storms, a tornado and for those of us in the North, an extremely rainy August.

My summer was very enjoyable with lots of sun, gardening and visiting around Manitoba. For the second year in a row we had very few mosquitoes to spoil our enjoyment of the outdoors.

The RTAM office remained open throughout the summer with the staff working hard on routine tasks, getting ready for the annual audit and preparing for the September Board

meeting. Due to our small staff there have been times when the office was closed but the closures were posted on the RTAM website, a message was put on the answering machine and a note posted on the office door. It is a good idea to check the website and/or call the office first if you are thinking of visiting the office to ensure that the staff is available to assist you.

We are now in the second year of implementing the Strategic Plan.

Last year saw a major overhaul of the Policy Manual to adjust it to meet the first of the goals from the plan, and to update wording and generally make the document more efficient. This year, the Bylaws manual will be reviewed to ensure that it corresponds with the Policy Manual. The Board will continue to move forward to address the changes needed to implement the Strategic Plan.

The Board of Directors now has 18 volunteer directors with two directors being new this year. The Committee Chairs were named at the May Board meeting on the Thursday after the AGM so that the committees could be formed at the June meeting ensuring that committee work could go forward over the summer. The new policy for the makeup of committees meant that more RTAM members than directors have been named to most Continued on page 4

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

ACER-CART

Report of ACER-CART AGM May 31, June 1 and 2, 2018 / Ottawa, Ontario JoAnne Hoyak, RTAM Director; Vice President 2017 - 2018

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epresentatives from retired teacher organizations across Canada, except for regrets from the Yukon, met and discussed issues of mutual concern and interest at the CTF building in Ottawa.

Excellent pre-AGM presentations included “Advanced Care Planning” and “Deprescribing:” both were topics of importance for all seniors.

Items for discussion at the table concerned the status of the implementation of the National Pharmacare Program, a Bill C-27 update, and a review of the progress for a Ministry for Seniors.

We were also provided with a final Member Pension Plan comparison that should be utilized

by RTAM in our work to have a RTAM member on the TRAF Board as five provinces do at this point in time.

Elections were held with the following results: President, Bill Berryman, N S ; Vice President, Gerry Tiede, BC; Regional Representative East, Margaret Urquhart, NB; Regional Representative ON, Martin Higgs, ON; Regional Representative West, Gordon Cumming, AB.

ACER-CART Priorities for 2018 - 2019 include participation in the 2019 Federal election by co-operating with other like-minded groups to protect pensions, to advocate for a single payer National Pharmacare program as well as a Federal Ministry for Seniors.

In support , we will monitor the ten year bilateral health funding agreements. We oppose the conversion of defined benefit pension plans to target benefit plans as Bill C-27 and our own province advocate. We support the enhancement of the CPP and oppose any measure to privatize Health Care.

Membership in ACER-CART and attendance at the AGM gives RTAM a stronger voice because of the benefit of affiliation with a National group as well as partnerships with other National organizations that lobby in support of our shared issues and goals.

I hold great respect for the dedication and ability of the Directors who sit at the table and represent their membership with such responsibility and eloquence. 

President's Report (Continued from page 3)

committees. Some chairs had difficulty finding volunteers for their committees as no RTAM members had signed up to volunteer for those committees. Chairs were tasked with looking for volunteers over the summer. If none can be found, then they will be asking directors to fill the vacancies. If any RTAM member has the time to serve on a committee, please contact the RTAM office. Thank you to all of the directors and their committee members for their dedication and service.

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The RTAM Mission Statement is “to serve and advocate for all retired members.” I am looking forward to serving this year as president. I know that there will be a huge learning curve for me as the year progresses, but I also know that I will have lots of help from the Board and MaryAnne, our Executive Director and Nicole, our Member Services Coordinator. I know that this will be an interesting and productive year for us all. Thank you for your support and input in the coming months. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

2018 – 2019 RTAM Committees List COMMITTEE

COMMITTEE CHAIR

AGM and Elections

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin

Pat Bowslaugh, Brandon

Benefits

Pat Bowslaugh, Brandon

Raymond Bisson, Winnipeg Wayne Hughes, Winnipeg Vel McAdam, The Pas Judy Olmstead, Brandon Doreen Sage, Neepawa

Bylaws and Policy

Beth Smith, Dauphin

Charles Clifford, Portage la Prairie Vel McAdam, The Pas Dorothy Young, Winnipeg

Communications

Carol Pelton, Winnipeg

Ralph Cibula, Gladstone Vel McAdam, The Pas Doreen Sage, Neepawa

a) KIT

Doreen Sage, Neepawa

Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin Joan Goble, Thompson Joan Rink, Brookdale Beth Smith, Dauphin William Taylor, Brandon

b) Public Relations

Vel McAdam, The Pas

Bill Cann, Winnipeg Guy Hansen, Winnipeg Ken Malcolm, Dauphin John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie

c) RTAM Website

Ralph Cibula, Gladstone

Jack Fraser, Winnipeg Wayne Hughes, Winnipeg Doreen Sage, Neepawa

Linda Scott, Winnipeg

Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin Charles Clifford, Portage la Prairie Audrey Greenhill, Winnipeg Allen Havard, Winnipeg Beth Smith, Dauphin

Pension

Alison Logan, Winnipeg

Raymond Bisson, Winnipeg Bill Cann, Winnipeg JoAnne Hoyak, MacGregor Julian Hoyak, MacGregor Rudy Peters, Winnipeg

Political Advocacy

John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie

Ralph Cibula, Gladstone Guy Hansen, Winnipeg Julian Hoyak, MacGregor

Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards

Peggy Prendergast, Winnipeg

Hélène Beauchemin, Winnipeg Maureen Recksiedler, Stonewall Joan Rink, Brookdale

Membership and Chapters

2018-19 Representatives on External Organizations/Committees GROUP

RTAM REPRESENTATIVES

ACER-CART

Director: Peggy Prendergast, Winnipeg Observer: Joan Dawson, Thompson

MTS 100th Anniversary

Pat Lewicki, Winnipeg Beth Smith, Dauphin

Manitoba Seniors Coalition

Peggy Prendergast, Winnipeg John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie

RTAM.MB.CA n 5

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Your Pension Committee At Work Alison Logan, Pension Committee Chair

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am pleased to introduce the members of RTAM’s Pension Committee for 2018 - 2019.

Raymond Bisson, Winnipeg; Bill Cann, Winnipeg; JoAnne Hoyak, MacGregor; Julian Hoyak, Macgregor; Rudy Peters, Winnipeg, Alison Logan, Winnipeg.

The Committee’s Mandate includes: • Being current with aspects of Teachers’ Retirement Allowances Fund Board, The Teachers’ Pension Act and other relevant pension matters • Advising the Board and making recommendations for policies and actions on pension issues • Assisting the Board in responding on pension issues • Assisting the Board on educating members, the public and other related parties on pension issues • Establishing and maintaining liaison with other relevant pension groups • Advocating for, then carrying out, the search process for RTAM’s nomination for the government’s discretionary appointment of a “representative” of retired Plan members to the TRAF Board and conducting the search process and making recommendations in accordance with the RTAM Nomination Process for TRAF Board Appointment.

One of the priorities of the Pension Committee in particular, along with RTAM in general, in the 2017 - 2018 year was the dispersal of the restricted surplus in accordance with the MTS/ RTAM agreement. After being validated by TRAF and sent on to the Treasury Board, we are pleased that the Provincial Government will disperse the funds accordingly. The Pension Committee, in conjunction with the Political Advocacy Committee, wrote a submission to the Government in protest of the Provincial Pension Review Committee’s reform proposal of converting pensions from a Defined Benefit plan to a Target Benefit plan. The vigilance of this development will be ongoing during 2018 - 2019.

Another focus will be retaining the tradition of the Pension Committee and RTAM Board members requesting face to face meetings with the Minister of Education as well as Leaders of the Opposition Parties. This has proven to be invaluable in terms of personal recognition and frank awareness of the pertinent issues discussed.

All of this is carried out on behalf of RTAM members. If you have any questions or wish to reach the Committee Chair you may call the RTAM office at 204 889 3660 toll free 1-888- 393-8082 or send an email to office@rtam.mb.ca 

Wellness Advocacy Committee Plan For 2018 – 2019 Peggy Prendergast, Vice President; Wellness Advocacy Chair

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he Educational Advocacy and Wellness Committee is now the WELLNESS ADVOCACY COMMITTEE with responsibility for the Ad Hoc AWARDS COMMITTEE. As Vice President, I am your ACER-CART

representative and will attempt to keep you informed by posting relevant FEDERAL wellness information on the website as well as provincial news. We also have a new Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living, Honourable Cameron Friesen, the former Minister of Finance as well as Conitinued on page 7

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

Political Advocacy John Sushelnitsky, Political Advocacy Committee Chair

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he Political Advocacy (PA) committee will meet in September and there are at least three topics that will be part of its agenda in 2018 - 2019. Part of the mandate of the PA committee is to keep the Board aware of developments that affect the welfare of retired teachers. Towards that end, the PA committee will continue its research on the topic of proportional representation as it affects the fairness of our voting system. The challenge is to simplify the adjustments that our members, and the general public, would have to make in accepting a change from the way ”we have always done things.” It is a complex subject but we have taken steps towards that goal and will continue to do so in the coming year, particularly with the referendum taking place in British Columbia about whether to employ Proportional Representation or not.

Another topic that will concern the PA committee is the dramatic shift in the distribution of wealth that has taken place in Canada and in many parts of the developed world. With studies that document the increasing impoverishment of many sectors of our society, it is of great concern because it speaks to the fabric of our society when so many people are less well off than they were decades ago.

The third issue will be a study of the Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Many of our members have been in the front lines of this issue of relating to the aboriginal populations and it is of great interest to be aware of the recommendations of that Commission. There may be other issues that emerge as the year moves forward, but as chair of PA I am confident that we will make progress on these three areas. 

Wellness Advocacy Committee (continued from page 6)

a new federal Minister of Seniors, the Honourable Filomena Tassi.

The Manitoba Seniors Coalition is also active and there should be information coming to you about the workings of organizations on behalf of Seniors in our province in the areas of senior isolation, ageism and dementia, to name a few. All of this affects all of us in one way or another and at different times of our lives. There could be threads of these concerns running through the Wellness Seminars we will be offering this year. We are attempting to engage you in the discussion through a survey we will be offering through the RTAM website, www.rtam.mb.ca this year. Please help us when we ask for opinions.

We have established some dates for the upcoming year so please save the dates:

Topics could include: Creativity: The role of art, music and all things creative in Retirement; Decluttering; Senior Driving from Safety Manitoba; Consumer Protection; Get Your Benefits: How Better Income Can Lead To Better Health.

October 31, 2018, half day at the RTAM Office.

Seminar advertised in this issue of KIT November 13, 2018, full day 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at McMaster House: program will be posted on the website February 27, 2019, half day at the RTAM Office. Seminar to be advertised in KIT and on the website April 03, 2019, full day at McMaster House: program will be posted in KIT and on the website, http://rtam.mb.ca 

RTAM.MB.CA n 7

COMMITTEE REPORTS

KIT 2018 - 2019 Doreen Sage, Editor-In-Chief; Members: Beth Smith, Dauphin; Joan Goble, Thompson; Bill Taylor, Brandon; Joan Rink, Brookdale

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he Strategic Plan adopted at the 2017 AGM stated: 2. Communication 2.1 Goal: To improve KIT

Success Indicators

2. Communcation 2.1 To improve KIT magazine: a) Evidence of an increase in space dedicated to chapter submitted material by the year 2018 b) Improve protocol of receipt and approval or rejection of submitted material by the year 2018 The only material that can be printed in KIT, which is published four times a year, is material that is submitted. Therefore, for this Strategic Plan to be fully implemented, all chapters are asked to report on any activity/event that members have taken part in. All material received from chapters is printed in the current issue. Late printing only happens if an issue goes beyond the allowed 32 pages.

All material must be emailed to the Editor, photos may be sent by Canada Post. Once the Editor receives your material, it is given a code number and forwarded to committee editors.

Suggested corrections, changes, etc. are noted on material and returned to the Editor. Final copy is then forwarded to the designer/publisher, Blue Ink Media. Material is organized in a very specific order beginning with the President's Message, followed by committee reports, chapter reports and then other material.

Care is taken to have any one article all printed on one page. However, if there is "spillage," the rest goes on the next page so readers do not have to search for the ending.

Once the publisher has the magazine in a draft form, the Editor-in-Chief goes over the copy with

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the publisher, checking layout. The final draft is then sent to the printer. Printer is responsible for printing, addressing, postage, sorting by Postal Code and delivering final copies to Canada Post.

Addressing is done using a list sent from TRAF to the RTAM office. Clerical work is done to remove duplicate addresses and add addresses of those RTAM members who are not members of TRAF. All public and private schools as well as politicians and MTS receive a copy.

Some copies are not deliverable, for many different reasons. The list of undeliverable copies is received by the Editor-in-Chief and the RTAM office. This service is also a cost from Canada Post. If you change your address please let TRAF know as soon as possible.

A new feature being implemented is encouraging readers to have their copy of KIT sent to them digitally to their electronic device.

Readers get their copy sooner and do not have to be concerned about what to do with their copy.

All recent copies are on our secure website. For further details, see ad on page 30.

If anyone who sends in material wants a receipt for their material, all they have to do is hit the "receipt required key" on their device. Works very well. Most material received is printed. However, if there is questionable material sent to the Editor, it is taken to the RTAM board for vetting.

KIT accepts very few paid ads as the Board voted some years ago that that was not where they wanted the magazine to go. Most ads are more information about events/activities that retired teachers could be interested in. Johnson ad on the back cover is a paid ad.

If any RTAM member would be interested in becoming a member of the Editorial Committee, please contact the RTAM office or the editor: dsage@mts.net One only needs a laptop/desktop as work is done by email, so you never have to leave the comforts of home to attend a meeting. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Benefits Committee

Pat Bowslaugh, Benefits Chair; Members: Raymond Bisson, Winnipeg; Wayne Hughes, Winnipeg; Vel McAdam, The Pas; Judy Olmstead, Brandon; Doreen Sage, Neepawa

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o all our new retirees, we send sincere congratulations on your retirement and welcome to your new organization! You are now one of almost ten thousand members of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba.

One of the privileges of being a member is your access to a number of “Benefit Plans” which basically are customized group insurance plans.

We can say that they are customized for us due to the ongoing communications with Johnson Inc. This company searches out the best plans looking at both coverages and premium costs. It is to be noted that we are always consulted before plans are accepted and this is where your voice has the potential to impact the results.

We have a total of 9 separate plans as listed below: • CORE Extended Health Care Plan: 80% coverage of a variety of medical supports including medications and several health care interventions.

• ENHANCED Extended Health Care Plan: 100% coverage plan is designed for members who have acute needs, especially prescribed medications. Premiums are coordinated with your own personal income tax level as identified on your annual Pharmacare form.

• Premier Travel Plan: available to Full RTAM Members only. It is our most sought after insurance, offering extensive coverage, with age reflective monthly costs, based on yearlong coverage for trips up to 62 days in length plus the opportunity to extend trips in 15-day packages.

• MEDOC: is also a travel plan for multiple trips of 17 or 35 days duration. The premium reflects

the applicant’s health status and is available to associate members (plus regular full members).

• Stand Alone Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Designed for those who still make travel plans but may not need either of the two coverages above.

• Dental Care Plan: has various percentages of coverages depending on the type of dental interventions that you need ranging from regular maintenance to dentures.

• Term Life Insurance to $150 000 • Guaranteed Life up to $25 000 for ages 50 to 85 • Home Insurance is a package covering several home disasters. Premiums reflect home structure, value and coverages desired.

These are thumbnail sketches only of the supports available to you. If you have any questions or wish to apply for any of our benefit plans, contact Johnson Inc. at 1-877-989-2600 or pbservicewest@johnson.ca, the RTAM Office at 204-889-3660, 1-888-393-8082 (toll-free) or office@rtam.mb.ca or visit the RTAM benefits website at www.johnson.ca/rtam.

Please note: that upon subscribing to any of the RTAM plans, TRAF members may choose to have the premiums deducted from their TRAF pension on a monthly basis.

Again, these opportunities are for our members only and are not available to the public or to retirees who have not joined RTAM. Our committee meets monthly, beginning in September, when Johnson Inc. representatives will be on site with us charting plans for the upcoming year. As a committee, we look forward to meeting your needs. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

COMMITTEE REPORTS

My Trip To An ER Under The New Emergency Regime In Winnipeg CHAPTER TWO Peggy Prendergast, Vice President, Wellness Chair

Q

uestions arose from the article that was printed in the Spring edition of KIT. Where do I get one of these E.R. I.K.’s (Emergency Response Information Kit) that was on my fridge? How much do they cost? In Winnipeg you can obtain a kit from A & O located at 200-280 Smith Street, from most local fire halls, senior centres and, for the most part, they are free. Because some centres have to assemble them, there may be a nominal charge.

RTAM Wellness Seminars dealing with Health Directives, Wills and Power of Attorneys have been providing them free of charge and will continue to do so.

Once in the hospital, on the evening of December 6, 2017, after a long and uncomfortable ambulance ride, I had to wait a couple of hours before it was determined where I would be going in the hospital and when and what surgery would be performed. A catheter was installed and I was given morphine for pain. I then was taken to a room, was told the operation would probably take place late the following afternoon. Actually, 48 hours later, with a 24-hour delay and still with a catheter and on morphine, with little food, I received so called “emergency” surgery, a partial hip replacement. If the province is providing streamlined emergency care why are physicians not ready to perform emergency care in the chosen facility, often far away from where the patient actually lives when they arrive at the hospital?

The following four days saw me up and walking with a walker and help from a physiotherapist and her assistants. I accepted the offer of rehab so I could go home and manage by myself with minor home care when I got there. This was a much different hospital experience. Cutbacks in physio

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and occupational therapy allowed for minimal support or help. The most frightening experience however was with the Flu epidemic that was happening, coincidentally, in the city. People being admitted with orthopedic emergencies were also infected or carriers of the flu strain prevalent last year or contracted it in hospital. Some had even had the regular flu shot but were over the age of 65 and it was not enough to protect them with their diminishing levels of immunity because of their age. At one point during the following ten days I was told by staff that I was the only patient in a pod of 20 that did not have the flu. There were times when I was doing my regular walks that there were patients in recliners in the hallway gasping for breath and with terrible rasping coughs. The nurse on duty was able to keep closer watch on them this way but the air was full of their flu germs. Why did I not get the flu?

I had heard about the “high-dose flu shot” that was being administered to patients in long term care facilities free of charge that were over 65 years of age. There are scientifically researched reasons for having this high dose flu shot. Although it

COMMITTEE REPORTS

TRAF Restricted Surplus Regulation Joan Dawson, RTAM President

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TAM has received confirmation that The Teachers’ Pensions Restricted Surplus Regulation, 2017 (M.R. 63/2018) was registered May 18, 2018. This regulation puts in place the authority necessary to disburse the restricted surplus equally over a five year period commencing July 1, 2018. The regulation is consistent with the joint RTAM/MTS (The Manitoba Teachers’ Society) proposal which had

been accepted by the TRAF Board and submitted to government as a proposed regulation in June, 2017.

The impact for 2018 of the enactment of the Teachers’ Pensions Restricted Surplus Regulation, 2017 (M.R. 63/2018) is that the previously announced COLA of 1.15% effective July 1, 2018 will now be increased to 1.35%.

The complete regulation is available at: https://bit.ly/2od87fm 

My Trip To An ER . . . (continued from page 10)

was not free to me and not too accessible I believe it literally saved my life last year. I work with elderly seniors and am one myself, with a chronic condition that warranted me paying the $85 to have this shot. I had no idea I would fall and be in hospital at the height of the flu season, but because I had the shot I was protected.

I will post the details of vaccination and immunization, particularly for the older adult, on the RTAM website: www.rtam.mb.ca for you to read about and make a decision for your own protection. Personally, I believe it should be available free for adults 65 years of age and older as it is in some parts of our country. It would save many of our older adults from the complications that often ensue from the flu and all of us from the cost of the hospitalization of these unfortunate older adults. I believe: IT IS TIME TO GET SERIOUS ABOUT THE FLU SHOT FOR OLDER SENIORS As we age, the natural weakening of the immune system increases the chances of getting influenza (also known as the flu), which can result in serious complications in older adults. For the 2018 - 19 season, an annual flu vaccine is especially important for those at increased risk of serious illness from the flu, their caregivers and close contacts. This includes: • People 65 years of age and older

• Residents of personal care homes or long-term care facilities Individuals with the following chronic health conditions: • An immune system weakened by disease or medical treatment • Cardiac or pulmonary disorders • Neurologic or neurodevelopmental conditions • Diabetes and other metabolic diseases • Renal disease • Anemia or hemoglobinopathy • Obesity (body mass index 30) for example To get your free flu vaccine and/or Pneu-P-23 vaccine (pneumonia vaccine), visit your local public health office, nursing station, doctor's office, pharmacy, QuickCare Clinic, ACCESS Centre, or the nearest immunization clinic. Remember to contact your health care provider first to check for flu and/or Pneu-P-23 vaccine availability.

Your local pharmacist can provide immunization services to people 7 years of age and older.

A further option to consider is FLUZONE ‘high-dose Influenza Vaccine. People in long term care facilities will receive this vaccine free. There is a charge for others. Check your insurance company for coverage and check with your doctor about the vaccine that is best suited for you.

Consult: www.fluzonehighdose.ca. for further information about this vaccine.  RTAM.MB.CA n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Norm Gould, President of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, Speaks at the Rally for Public Education Manitoba Legislature, Friday, May 25, 2018 Text and Photos by John Sushelnitsky, Political Advocacy Chair

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hank you all for being here today.

I think I speak for all teachers when I say that teaching, while always rewarding, is not always easy.

These days, it’s becoming even more difficult.

By being here, you are showing your commitment to the kids in this province – something the government has failed to do. The government says it has increased funding to public education, but as teachers we know the truth.

Public education in this province is under

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attack – not by a foreign source, but by our own provincial government. The last education funding announcement left an enormous shortfall in the funding needed to adequately fund education.

More than half of our school divisions are now receiving less funding than last year. And last year was no better! In fact, this is the second year in a row that education funding has failed to keep pace with the rate of inflation.

Since this government has been in power, I’ve had to give my head more than a few shakes. To

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Norm Gould, MTS President

be blunt- their policies lack common sense. On the one hand, we have the government’s continued underfunding of education. And on the other, we have enrollment numbers which continue to grow. Over the past three years, Manitoba has experienced the fastest population growth in Canada. But classrooms aren’t just growing in size, they are growing in complexity. One in 10 students require English as an Additional Language support.

Support for students with special needs continues to be woefully inadequate. More kids.

More unique needs. Less money. You don’t have to be a Math teacher to see that this equation doesn’t add up. The government also removed the class size cap for K-3. They did this before the initiative even had a chance to get off the ground.

Yet, when they were in Opposition, they were touting the benefits of smaller class sizes.

What we have here is a perfect example of a government that is so blinded by pettiness that they will denounce a good idea on the basis that it wasn’t their idea. At the end of the day, the removal of the class size cap means less one on one time with kids who need it most. And let’s not forget what is happening in Frenchlanguage education. This is the fastest growing education segment in Manitoba. Yet key positions were eliminated in the government department responsible for the development of the French language curriculum. This government campaigned on no cuts to frontline services. Tell that to the Lord Selkirk Division. They have lost 17 teaching positions in two years. Swan Valley is down five positions since this government came into power. These are just a few examples.

Across this province, teachers are spending their own money on classroom resources, because if they didn’t their students would have to go without. Teachers are volunteering countless hours to run sports and arts programs for students because if they didn’t – these programs would cease to exist. There is no doubt that Manitoba teachers are going the extra mile for their students. And it’s working.

Recent results from the Council of Ministers of Education indicates Manitoba students’ test scores are improving. This is proof that Manitoba teachers are doing all they can to support our students in spite of a lack of government support. If these gains in literacy and numeracy RTAM.MB.CA n 13

COMMITTEE REPORTS

are to continue, the government must do its fair share. Teachers simply can’t do it alone. And our Principals and Vice principals – they are continuing to do what they can to support their staff, students and communities – but they can’t do it alone either.

A strong public education system is critically important to the future of Manitoba. It always has been and always will be – it is the great equalizer in our province. Teachers know that teaching is not limited to the classroom. In fact, to be a teacher, is to be an advocate for public education.

This is a time to stand together – teachers,

principals, vice principals, consultants, parents, community members – as partners to fight this injustice to our public education system.

We are calling on this government to make a commitment to ensure education funding is both adequate and stable so that we can provide the high quality of education that our children deserve. The future of Manitoba is in our classrooms and in the hands of our members.

This government needs to step up, do the right thing and fund our future and help our members take care of kids. 

Thank you, Brenda!

R

TAM has known for some time that Brenda Venuto has given notice that she will be leaving her position as Senior Vice President, Member Services of TRAF in Fall 2018.

Brenda began her career with the Teacher Retirement Allowances Fund in May, 1982, shortly after obtaining her BA degree in English from the University of Winnipeg. In 1994, soon after returning from maternity leave after the birth of her second child, Brenda assumed the role of overseeing the Member Services department of TRAF. Over the years, Brenda has been a familiar face at the RTAM Annual General Meeting as a co-presenter of the Annual TRAF Report. At the May, 2018, AGM, RTAM took the opportunity to acknowledge Brenda’s many years of exemplary and responsive service to our membership with a small token of our appreciation, as well as very best wishes for many happy, healthy and relaxing years to explore the plans for retirement that she has set for herself. 

14 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Wellness Seminar

Your Health Care Directive, Power Of Attorney, Wills & Help Date:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2018

Place:

RTAM Office - 206-1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg

Time:

1:30 p. m. - 3:30 p. m.

PLEASE REGISTER WITH THE RTAM OFFICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Registration fee: $5.00 Payable at the door in cash (exact change) or cheque payable to RTAM. Registration will be limited to 25 participants and will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis.

PROGRAM 1:15 p.m.

REGISTRATION

1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Opening remarks: WELLNESS ADVOCACY

1:45 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.

Preventing Financial Abuse; Power of Attorney; Health Care Directive; Wills; and HELP for all of these areas of our lives.

Sharon Tod, B.A., LL.B., St Mary’s Law, 619 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg, is the Presenter. Her preferred areas of practice are Wills and Estates and Real Estate.

3:20 p.m.-3:30 p.m.

Evaluation and Closing Remarks

TO REGISTER

Phone the RTAM Office at: 204-889-3660 or 1-888-3938082 (Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) OR Email your name, address, postal code,and phone number to office@rtam.mb.ca with “October 31 Registration” in the Subject Line.

RTAM.MB.CA n 15

CHAPTER REPORTS

Calgary Chapter's Lethbridge Adventure Penny Hogan / Photos by Louis Hogan

Front Row: L - R: Lillian Kozak, Jan Campbell, Penny Hogan, Sharon Rogerson, Grace Neufeld, Barry Rogerson. Back Row: L - R: Dennis Kozak, Keith Campbell, Louis Hogan, Vic Neufeld.

Missing: Missing: Richard Dooley, George Takashima, Peggy Takashima

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hursday, June 7, 2018, was a beautiful, sunny day as members of RTAM Calgary visited the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge, Alberta. The Nikka Yuko Garden was established as a “Canadian Garden in the Japanese Style” in 1967, Canada’s Centennial Year. It recognizes contributions made by citizens of Japanese ancestry to the multi-cultural community of Lethbridge and is a symbol of international friendship.

As our group meandered along the winding garden path, our guide explained the features of Japanese garden design. Water, an important design element, is featured in a tumbling waterfall, a gurgling stream and a reflective pond. As the path winds along, carefully pruned trees and shrubs intentionally hide from view the architectural components of the Japanese garden, until the visitor is nearby. Large rocks, positioned by crane, and smaller hand-picked rocks, were carefully chosen during construction, from a nearby mountain pass and are featured in Nikka Yuko. The turtle shaped island represents long life, while the smaller smooth rocks of the ‘karesansui’ dry garden are placed to inspire quiet contemplation. The teahouse, bell tower with bronze Friendship Bell, the gates, bridges, the stone pagoda and stone lanterns were crafted in Kyoto and shipped to Canada.

A highlight of our visit was ‘story tellings’ by

Dr. George Takashima, who is a member of the Calgary Chapter. George recounted his personal experiences as a young Japanese Canadian boy living in Vancouver at the outbreak of WW II. George and his parents, along with more than 20,000 Canadians of Japanese ancestry living on Canada’s west coast were removed from their homes by the Canadian government. They were sent to internment camps located in BC interior towns such as Castlegar, Slocan, New Denver and Kaslo. George recounted his boyhood memories of living conditions and schooling during the internment. George went on to describe the integration of the internees and their descendants into Canadian society.

The Garden is a living monument to the contributions of Nikkei - emigrants and their descendants from Japan. Post-war WW II, southern Alberta had the third largest Nikkei population in the country. On October 19, 2017, the Alberta government designated Nikka Yuko Next page >

16 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM – Okanagan Chapter Nancy Kostiuk / Photos by Sue Lisik

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he annual BBQ, Potluck and Games was held on Thursday, July 19, 2018, hosted in West Kelowna by Nancy Kostiuk at the Sun Village Clubhouse.

The smoky haze from Okanagan forest fires kept attendees down to fourteen members and

guests. Lorne Lisik mastered the BBQ and entertained with his Manitoba Trivia. A variety of dishes provided a delicious supper for all.

Thank you to RTAM for facilitating this gathering with the Chapter Initiative Grant. 

Calgary Chapter (continued from previous page)

Garden as a Provincial Historical Resource.

After a tasty Bento box lunch enjoyed on the patio of the Garden tea-house, our trip continued to the Galt Museum, named after Sir Alexander Galt. Galt co-founded the city of Lethbridge after discovering coal along the banks of the Oldman River. Entering the museum’s viewing gallery, one is immediately struck with the expansive vista - from the High Level Railway Bridge, to the depths of the coulee below where the Oldman River winds past Fort Whoop-up. Our guided tour included the historical importance of coal mining in the Lethbridge area, the High Level Bridge construction, and the ‘Alberta on the Silver Screen’ exhibit. From the era of silent film through more familiar movies filmed in southwestern Alberta, the magic of movie making in southwestern Alberta is exhibited.

We express our gratitude to RTAM, for the Chapter Initiative Grant which facilitated our trip to Lethbridge!  RTAM.MB.CA n 17

CHAPTER CHAPTER REPORTS REPORTS

We spent a wonderful hour and a half travelling down memory lane before dragging ourselves away for lunch.

After lunch, we went to the Farmery Estate Brewery where Lawrence Warwaruk told us his family’s history: how he and his brother Chris came to be brewers of beer.

18 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

CHAPTER REPORTS

WREA

Text and photos by Judy Olmstead

O

n June 19, 2018, members of Westman Retired Educators’ Association met at 9:15 a.m. to carpool to Neepawa for tours of the Beautiful Plains museum and the Farmery Estate Brewery. This trip was made possible by RTAM’s Chapter Initiative grant.

The Beautiful Plains Museum, established in 1976, is located in the former CNR train station.

This heritage railway station was built in 1902.

Work is currently underway to restore the bricks on the exterior of the building to their original colour. Inside the museum, on the three floors of the station, are many rooms of artifacts. There is a general store, a medical hall, a military room, a chapel, a room of dresses and hats and a collection of old text books and toys in the children’s room.

There is even a replica of a one-room log cabin.

In the main entry room, there was a collection of history books from the various districts around Neepawa for anyone to use for research. These books are especially useful for people searching

their family history. As well, this area has a collection of clothes for youngsters from the neighbourhood daycares or preschools to use for dress-up.

We spent a wonderful hour and a half travelling down memory lane before dragging ourselves away for lunch. After lunch, we went to the Farmery Estate Brewery where Lawrence Warwaruk told us his family’s history: how he and his brother Chris came to be brewers of beer.

The Warwaruk brothers worked on the family farm near Neepawa, Manitoba. During the 1980s, interest rates around 20% combined with falling cattle prices made it difficult to make a living farming. In the late 1990s, having lost the ownership of their farm land and on the verge of bankruptcy, they moved to Winnipeg and decided to start a four star restaurant called LuxSole. The restaurant opened on Osborne Street in 1998 and was a success.

Ten years after successfully running LuxSole, they opened the first gastropub in Winnipeg, two RTAM.MB.CA n 19

CHAPTER REPORTS

doors down from the restaurant, called Luxalune.

It featured over 100 beers from around the world.

With the profits of their businesses, the brothers were able to buy back the family farm.

After years of success in the food and beverage industry, they were still missing their roots, so they combined their farming experience with their service industry knowledge to launch Farmery beer. Craft beer was becoming popular in the United States, so in 2008, the brothers went to Wisconsin to learn about making craft beer. In 2012, they launched their first beer, the Farmery Premium Lager, made with their own barley.

Their vision was to produce their own beer on the farm where the ingredients were grown. On January 8, 2013, they appeared on the Season 8 finale of Dragon’s Den to pitch this idea. David Chilton and Arlene Dickinson agreed to a partnership to give them $200,000 to help build a brewery in exchange for 6% royalties. Farmery is

20 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

the first estate brewery in Canada.

The farm produced the barley, but in the beginning, hops were imported from the western United States, which was usual for most beer production in Canada. Now, the Warwaruks grow their own hops on their farm as well. Hops vines grow to 18 feet tall and must be trained to grow up a trellis. Hops flowers in August and produces cones that resemble a pinecone. After harvesting, the cones are dried and an essential oil is extracted to be used in the brewing of the beer.

Now, it was time for our tour of their brewery.

Three years ago, they moved into the present building, which is a converted implement dealership in Neepawa. It is filled with tall, gleaming metal tanks, rows of silver cans moving along a track and colourful stacks and stacks of cases of various beers. They even have a seasonal flavor—Endless Summer. Although the four main ingredients of beer are malted barley, hops,

CHAPTER REPORTS

yeast, and water, at the Farmery Estate Brewery, different flavours such as lemon and iced tea are added at the last stage before canning. One brew batch produces 6000 to 8000 cans.

While the actual brewing process takes 7 to 10 days, we were in luck, as on this day, bottling was also happening. What was most interesting was that carbon dioxide was injected into the cans to remove the oxygen before the cans were filled with beer, as the oxygen would interfere with the finished product. Five tubes lowered into the cans to inject the carbon dioxide, then the five cans moved to the next position, and five tubes injected the beer. The lids were put in position and crimped on.

The next step is pasteurizing. Seven hundred cans at a time were pasteurized for 28 minutes to extend the life of the beer from six months, to one to two years. Finally, labels were applied— different colours for different flavours, and then

the cans were boxed, ready for shipment around Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The brothers hope to expand their market in the future.

Besides beer, the Warwaruk brothers also produce barley flour mixes for flapjacks, chocolate cake and beer bread from their barley crop. They also make a variety of beauty products such as face lotion. Located outside the brewery, is the Farmery Food truck which serves delicious fish and chips with barley flour batter.

The tour concluded with a sampling of the various flavours of Farmery Estate beer. Needless to say, a good time was enjoyed by all, and we would recommend this tour if you are in the area. The province of Manitoba recognized the uniqueness of Farmery Estate Brewery by making it Manitoba’s latest Star Attraction for tourism.

WREA thanks RTAM for the Chapter Initiative Grant which made this tour possible. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 21

CHAPTER REPORTS

Thompson Chapter Continues Its Retirement Tradition Joan Dawson

T

he Thompson Association of Retired Educators (TARE) continues to visit the classrooms of newly retiring teachers to celebrate with their students. It is such a fun time for us that we no longer vote on whether or not we are going to hold the event, we just discuss which retiring teachers to visit. We bring Rice Krispy Cake, talk about retirement, tell funny stories about what retired teachers do with their time, sing a song or two and take pictures.

22 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

It’s great to be able to welcome retiring teachers going into retirement. This year’s retirees

are Pat Pegus, a grade three teacher and Denise Tucker, a primary resource teacher. 

CHAPTER REPORTS

A Teacher Affects Eternity: She Can Never Tell Where Her Influence Stops F. Sultana Hussain

T

his was evident at the RWTA luncheon, a beautiful Winnipeg Spring day on April 26, 2018, with 150 members in attendance!

The entertainment featured the iconic Winnipeg native Ron Paley on the keyboard accompanied by crooner Glen Matthews doing the vocals and percussion. Hit numbers like: Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World, My Girl by The Temptations, Lean On Me

by Bill withers, Mustang Sally by Wilson Pickett, songs by Lionel Richie and Marvin Gale were some of the delightful numbers.

Ron Paley swing big band styled music had members up and dancing; as they were enthralled by non-stop hand clapping, whistling, dancing, and swinging interactive music.

The biggest delight however, was to witness the joy in our iconic musician Ron Paley when he recognized his Grade

Three Elementary Teacher, Irene Huska, from Florence Nightingale School, in the audience. All he wanted was a picture with “his Teacher.” There was sheer joy in their meeting and greeting. He was pleased that she recalled names of his siblings and friends.

The business part of the Annual General Meeting announced the new Executive for 2018 - 2019. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 23

CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers’ Association Cécile Alarie-Skene, President

R

etired women teachers are invited to join the Retired Women Teachers’ Association.

RWTA’s goals are maintaining relationships with former colleagues and making new friends.

We are also active in dealing with problems concerning the welfare of our members.

We are pleased to invite you to our luncheons which are held four times a year at the Masonic Centre, 420 Corydon Avenue (Confusion Corner).

2018 – 2019 Luncheon dates are:

• September 27, 2018: Luncheon and Fashion Show by Northern Reflections If you are not yet a member but wish to attend this first luncheon, call Lynda Tunny before September 14 at 204-735-2823.

Other luncheon dates are:

• December 13, 2018; February 28, 2019; April 25, 2019.

Served lunches with entertainment will continue to be $20 per member and now $25 per non-member.

This is payable at the door but you must register in advance with Lynda Tunny.

RWTA Executive Committee 2018 - 2019

• President: Cécile Alarie-Skene • Vice-President: • Past-President: Ruth Hartnell • Treasurer: Phyllis Arnold-Luedtke • Recording Secretary: Pat Opalko • Corresponding Secretary: Ethel Mair • Membership Convener: Cécile Alarie-Skene • Club Notices: Brenda Zybrinski • Social Committee: Chair Louise Burton, Kathy Deyman, Sultana Hussain • Luncheon Coordinator: Lynda Tunny • Tickets: Birdielyn Gray, Lenore Butler • RTAM and Pensions: Peggy Prendergast • Visiting: Emily Williamson, Lenore Butler • Publicity: Helen Norrie • Archivist: Jacquie Field • Pianist: Charlotte Stech • Phoners: Ellen Laubenstein, Vi Hultin, Barbara Haddow 

RWTA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2018 – 2019 Please complete this form and return it along with your cheque for $8.00 before September 14, 2018.

After this date, notices will be sent and phone calls made only to paid-up members.

If you are paying your fees at the luncheon on September 27 please complete this form and bring it with you to the luncheon.

Name (Miss, Ms, Mrs.): E-mail address:

Phone number:

Address: City:

Postal Code:

Make $8.00 cheque payable to Retired Women Teachers’ Association and mail to: Cécile Alarie-Skene, 227 Parkville Bay, Winnipeg MB R2M 2J6 No post-dated cheques, please.

If you wish your membership card mailed to you, send a self-addressed stamped envelope with your form and cheque.

24 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

Manitoba Biennial Award of Excellence Manitoba Alpha Delta Kappa, April 28, 2018 Lynn Land

O

n behalf of Manitoba Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority, we are honoured to award Dianne Soltess, Beta’s president for 2018 - 2020, the Provincial Biennial Award of Educational Excellence.

Dianne exemplifies our convention’s theme “Observe, Reflect, Act – Give it ‘Owl’ You Have!”

Dianne has demonstrated, throughout her career in education, outstanding leadership in Mathematics education locally, provincially and nationally as a teacher leader and mentor, math coordinator & consultant. She uses her strong understanding of Math development to address the differentiated needs of all students in her work with students, teachers, administrators and parents.

In her career as a classroom teacher, with experience teaching grades one through six, she received the Murray McPherson Award for contributing distinguished meritorious service in the field of Math education in curricular development, contributions to professional development outstanding classroom teaching & exemplary leadership.

Dianne’s extensive involvement with education has included: • introducing Multi-age teaching at Strathmillan School in St. James-Assiniboia • a member of the Manitoba Association of Mathematics Teachers actively participating in the MAMT as president, treasurer and as a math professional development workshop presenter, including SAG days • a member of the Science Teachers’ Association of Manitoba’s Board of Directors • Consultant on the Manitoba Department of Education Training & Development of the Western Canadian Protocol Curricular

Framework K-12 mathematics • Author of the K-4 Math Support Documents • Author of the K-6 Science Support Documents • Writer-authorsenior editor for the Hands on Math and Hands on Science resource series: an active inquiry based problem solving and critical thinking resource for teachers.

• Senior editor of Mental Math Activities Grade 1-4 Manitoba and Ontario editions • She has taught both undergraduate and post baccalaureate math courses for the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba.

• As Math consultant in the St. James Assiniboia School Division, she has presented workshops to teachers, administrators and parents. She has been an important participant in school planning and training of teachers in enhancing numeracy, assessing and planning intervention.

• She organizes and implements professional development math in-services, arranges speakers and has given workshops (K-8) for Manitoba School Divisions, School Boards, The Manitoba Department of Education and has given presentations internationally.

In her “retirement” she continues to be a project consultant, coach, mentor and leader, providing guidance in all areas of mathematics.

Dianne was a presenter at our North Central Regional Conference in July 2018. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

In Memoriam April 2018 John Rodney Allen, Gimli, MB Donald Wayne Askholm, Winnipeg, MB Jean Joseph Rene Avanthay, Winnipeg, MB John W. Carroll, Winnipeg, MB R. James Duncan, Winnipeg, MB Ruth A. Emisch, Prince Albert, SK Cheppudira P. Gopalkrishna, Winnipeg, MB Lillian A. Hoey, Nanoose Bay, BC Valdine G. Johnson, Winnipeg, MB Hans W. Kerr, Winnipeg, MB Walter Steve Lukie, Winnipeg, MB Stanford Penner, Landmark, MB

Karl Preiss, Winnipeg, MB Nancelyn Ross, Winnipeg, MB Eugene Yarmie, Winnipeg, MB May 2018 Irene Bauman, Brandon, MB Dennis Edward Boyd, Brandon, MB Elizabeth Olive Delgatty, Winnipeg, MB Lorna Mary Hamilton, Hamiota, MB Barbara E. McKenzie, Winnipeg, MB Alys Finlay Tomasson, Winnipeg, MB M. Claire Toupin, Anola, MB

June 2018 Frederick C. Cole, Brandon, MB Jake Daniel Hildebrandt, Stuartburn, MB Margaret Houston, Winnipeg, MB Emile Joseph Huberdeau, Winnipeg, MB Mildred Johnson, Russell, MB Edward William Mitchler, Winnipeg, MB William J. Rhoda, Winnipeg, MB James Brandt Wollenhaupt, Flin Flon, MB

Life Members February 2018 Lillie F. Boese, Steinbach, MB Sadie S. Pittner, Victoria, BC Rudy A. Schulz, Winnipeg, MB March 2018 John J. Arendt, Saskatoon, SK Gordon C. Emberley, Lac du Bonnet, MB Elizabeth O. Genik, Winnipeg, MB K. Audrey MacKenzie, Winnipeg, MB Mary M. Michaleski, Dauphin, MB Catherine J. Orchard, Miami, MB Frances Sanderson, Winnipeg, MB

26 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

April 2018 Harry William Chornoboy, Winnipeg, MB Margaret J. Harrison, Winnipeg, MB D. Douglas Southam, Devon, MB Olive M. Tesarski, Alexander, MB H. Raymond Turner, Winnipeg, MB May 2018 Rose K. Podruski, Winnipeg, MB June 2018 Mary M. Dupas, Steinbach, MB Jake W. Dyck, Winnipeg, MB

Jean L. Hewko, Winnipeg, MB Anne Kiliwnik, Brandon, MB Natalie Lenkewich, Winnipeg, MB Marjorie R. Young, Cypress River, MB July 2018 Elizabeth Bergmann, Winnipeg, MB Eileen E. George, Winnipeg, MB Ronald H. Stevens, Winnipeg, MB Sylvia Unruh, Winnipeg, MB Grace Vadeboncoeur, Victoria, BC

RTAM

Photography CONTEST Summer 2018 Photo Contest

The KIT editorial committee announces a photo contest. The two categories are: • Summer: What does summer mean to you? Take a picture of your favourite summer view or activity.

• My Best Shot: Everyone has a wonderful photo that came out better than all of their other pictures.

Enter it in our contest and let us admire it too.

All entries to be sent by mail, email, fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m. October 3, 2018.

Full contest rules and entry forms are found at http://rtam.mb.ca/index.php/2018-photo-contest-rules or at the RTAM office.

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA (RTAM)

Summer 2018 Photo Contest Official Entry Form

PLEASE PRINT NAME ADDRESS

CITY

PHONE

EMAIL

CATEGORY ❏ Summer ❏ My Best Shot

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE: (optional)

POSTAL CODE

DECLARATION I agree to abide by the RTAM SUMMER 2018 PHOTO CONTEST RULES as set forth by RTAM and posted on www.rtam.mb.ca. and in KIT. I also agree that RTAM and its officers, directors, and employees shall not be liable, without limitations, for any claims based on publicity rights, defamation or invasion of privacy. I also confirm that I am a member in good standing of RTAM.

THIS FORM MAY BE PHOTOCOPIED.

A copy of this form must be attached to the back of each entry submitted by mail or filled in, signed by photographer and mailed to the RTAM office where it will be attached to the emailed photo

I confirm that all information given by me in connection to the photography contest is true and correct.

SIGNATURE __________________________________________ DATE________________________ All entries to be sent by postal service, courier or hand delivered to: RTAM WINTER 2018 Photo Contest, 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Or emailed to: info@rtam.mb.ca ENTRY DEADLINE: 3:00 p.m., OCTOBER 3, 2018 RTAM.MB.CA n 27

Greetings: October 1 is the International Day established by the United Nations to recognize Older Persons. Each year, Seniors' Voice which is a collaboration of seniors organizations seeks to have this day recognized by governments and publicly celebrated in a way appropriate in each community. We focus on four general areas of concern: Housing, Health, Pensions and Inequality.

We hope that your organization would be an active participant in this celebration this year. If you have not already done so, the first step would be to add the name of your organization to the list of collaborating organizations on the web site: https://seniorsvoice.org The second step would be to post on the web site any events your group plans to hold. There is a guideline on the web site to assist you. Where an event is already planned in your community, we would hope that you would participate in it.

If none is yet organized and you want assistance

to organize one, please feel free to email a member of the steering committee and we will endeavour to put you in contact with other people interested in an event. Some provinces have recognized October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. If your province has not done so, we would appreciate your efforts to help make that happen.

We would appreciate hearing back from you about your plans.

Sincerely The Steering Committee for Seniors' Voice Lucienne Bahuaud - lucienneseniorsvoice@gmail.com Herb John - herb.john@npfmail.ca Pat Kerwin – patjkerwin@gmail.com JoAnn Lauber - jlauber@shaw.ca Sayward Montague - smontague@federalretirees.ca 

ART FROM THE ATTIC! Back for the Fourth Year in Winnipeg!

F

rom June 1 to September 1, 2018, Grands ‘n’ More Winnipeg has volunteers standing by to pick up any art that people find sitting in their attic, or art they want to have someone else enjoy while they get new pieces for display. We appreciate donations of any hangable art in good condition.

Grands ‘n’ More is an organization of Winnipeg of grandmothers and community members who support African grandmothers who are caring for the 17 million children orphaned by AIDS. Anyone who wants to donate can call (204) 204.599.8787 or email: gnmAFTA@gmail.com.

28 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

A Grands ‘n’ More Winnipeg volunteer will arrange to pick up donations. All proceeds go to the Grandmothers Campaign which is part of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

The sale of donated art will be on Sunday, September 30, 10:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M., a Norwood Community Centre at 87 Walmer Street, off St. Mary's Road.

To learn more about Grands ‘n’ More Winnipeg, please visit our website at http://grandsnmore. com or find us on Facebook. 

Years

To Celebrate

T

he Manitoba School Library Association proudly celebrated 80 years in the service of school libraries in Manitoba on Saturday, March 10, 2018 at École South Pointe School in Winnipeg.

Teacher-librarians and school library technicians, new, experienced and retired, from schools around Winnipeg and beyond, gathered to share stories and experiences from the past in a vibrant space that projects the future of school libraries. École South Pointe School staff members; Ruthanne Dyck, principal, and Martina Blanchet, teacher-librarian, were welcoming and generously shared the new school and its wonderful facilities.

The library, a well-appointed teaching space with high flexibility and excellent break-out spaces for a variety of student projects and creative growth, was a key place to visit.

Many special guests brought greetings and shared their personal stories about libraries.

These included greetings from the Provincial Government, Jon Reyes, MLA for St. Norbert; from the Manitoba NDP, Education Critic, Matt Wiebe; from the Manitoba School Boards Association, Josh Watt, Executive Director; from the Manitoba Teachers Society, James Bedford; from the City of Winnipeg, Councillor Janice Lukes, Fort Whyte District; and Kathleen

McMillan brought greetings from Julie Fisher, Chair, PTSD Board of Trustees. Pauline Clarke, from Winnipeg School Division representing the MB Association of School Superintendents sent a written message.

MLA Jon Reyes commented on his happy experiences as a student in the Sisler High School library, and was delighted to acknowledge Margaret Gerber, his teacher-librarian, who was in the audience.

James Bedford talked about his experiences as a science teacher working with Zoya Osipova, teacher-librarian at Dakota Collegiate. He said, I express great confidence that my assessment of our teacher-librarians is accurate because I know many of you are past award recipients.

Josh Watt, Executive Director of Manitoba School Boards Association, reminded us that: Celebrating our history is one of the most important contributions that one can make to their colleagues and citizen tax payers. You cannot drive ahead if you are constantly looking in the rearview mirror, but then, you will not know where you are headed if you do not take time to look at where you have come from.

The attendees of the celebration thoroughly enjoyed the talk given by David Alexander Robertson, who spoke about the process of reconciliation and empathy. David’s story telling RTAM.MB.CA n 29

kept the audience rapt, laughing, and nodding in appreciation. He urged us to think about our personal stories, and allow ourselves to connect them to the stories of the Indigenous people, so we can all share our past. David Alexander Robertson is a long-time friend of MSLA and an award-winning author and graphic novelist from Winnipeg. His book, When We Were Alone, won the 2017 Governor General’s award for Young People’s Literature; Illustrated Books and the McNally Robinson Best Book for Young People Award.

MSLA Archivist and historian, Gerald R. Brown gave a brief history of the “Six Golden Threads of School Library Association History.”

He recognized individuals who had over the years, played significant roles in 1. Leaders and Leadership, 2. Education and Training, 3. Professional Development / Professional Learning; 4. Publications, both print and

electronic, 5. Awards and recognitions, and 6.

Out of Province Activities and Recognitions.

He commented on how these threads are woven together as a tapestry to tell the story of commitment and dedication to the teachers and students of Manitoba. Brown referred to the Association archives, now housed at the Provincial Archives, as a golden treasure waiting to be explored, to guide us as we grow and change.

Norm Guilbert, retired from River East Transcona School Division, commented: It was an outstanding event, and I had an opportunity to meet colleagues I had not seen in more than two decades. Thank you for compiling the archives. Obviously, that is a labour of love that has taken many hours. For more information, please contact Gerald R. Brown, Library Consultant, Lions Place, 906-610 Portage Avenue, Wpg. Phone: 204-284-5620; E mail: browner1@shaw.ca 

Your RTAM KIT is now mobile-readable!

To receive your digital copy of KIT instead of a paper copy, send your e-mail address to dsage@mymts.net including your Canada post mailing address.

30 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS St. Paul's Fort Garry - 15th annual BrushWorks Friday, October 19, 2018 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - wine and cheese

Saturday, October 20, 2018 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - cafe

Sunday, October 21, 2018 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. - cafe

Place: St. Paul's Fort Garry, 830 North Drive (204) 475 7549 (church office for information) Come and share the opportunity to view and purchase original art work by 36 Manitoba artists. Framed and unframed oils, watercolours, pastels, prints and art cards will be available. There will also be raffles of art work and a cafe for you to enjoy while contemplating which art piece will be perfect for that special wall space.....Be sure to tell your friends!

Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!

Would you like to make a difference by helping our community members to learn and to speak English?

Marlene Street Community Resource Centre is a nonprofit organization located in St. Vital, Winnipeg. We provide support and services to low-income families which include children, youth, single parents, Indigenous families and newcomers. Parking space available on site.

For more information, contact: Saima Siddiqui (Adult Program Coordinator) or Angela Konkin (Executive Director): 204-253-8994 or email: msacord@shaw.ca

Hold the Date – June 6, 2019

The Manitoba Teachers' College Class of 1958-59 is celebrating 60 years on June 6, 2019. The celebration will take place at the former MT College, Canadian Mennonite University. Further information will be forthcoming.

Faculty of Education Homecoming 2018

Date: September 26, 5:00 - 8:00 P.M. Education Building, 71 Curry Place, Fort Garry Campus Event Description: 5:00 P.M. - reception, followed by a tour of the faculty's new science labs and a panel discussion on the theme of inclusivity, titled: "Is Education in Manitoba Inclusive Enough? Where we were, where we are and where we want to be."

Contact Information: Charlie McDougall 204-474-7402 charlie.mcdougall@umanitoba.ca

SNOW BIRDS’ SPECIAL OFFER

Travelling during your retirement involves keeping informed on critical issues: • Trip planning • New border-crossing protocols and customs requirements, especially when travelling to the United States • Safety issues for Canadians • Importance of travel health insurance • Restrictions and limitations of government health insurance plans The free Snowbird Retirement Kit is for all retired people who like to travel. The package includes: • A one-year complimentary CSA membership.

• Information on retirement abroad.

• Snowbird Currency Exchange program information which could save you hundreds of dollars if you plan to move money between a Canadian and U.S. bank account.

• CSA Travellers’ Checklist.

• CSA Travel Information Guide.

• Medipac Travel Insurance Plan.

• CSA Auto Club.

• CSA Personal Accident Insurance Plan. www.snowbirds.org

Are you interested in becoming a mentor?

N.E.E.D.S. Inc. (Newcomer Employment & Education Development Services) is currently seeking volunteer mentors to work with newcomer youth ages 6-18.

N.E.E.D.S. Inc. is a non-profit, charitable organization that seeks to provide accessible services and supports to immigrant and refugee newcomer youth and their families during their settlement in order to enhance their integration into Canadian society.

Please consider becoming a mentor today! It only takes 6 hours a month to make a difference in the life of a refugee youth new to Winnipeg. Mentors connect newcomer youth to the community and engage them in educational and recreational activities.

Hours are flexible and a minimum commitment of 6 hours per month for 1 year is required. Please contact Matthew Fast: 940-1265 or matt@needsinc.ca if you are interested in applying or want more information.

CONTACT INFO: N.E.E.D.S. Inc., 251-A Notre Dame Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 1N8; Phone: (204) 940-1260 Fax: (204) 940-1272. Check out www.needsinc.ca for more information on N.E.E.D.S Inc.

PARTNERS FOR LEARNING

Retired teachers in the Winnipeg area for part time tutoring over the summer and the upcoming school year for Grades 1-10 Language Arts, Maths and Science.

Email resume to Partners for Learning at pfl1@mymts.net.

RTAM.MB.CA n 31

for RTAM Members.

the insurance needs of the majority of retired teachers. Since 1998, we achieved this through RTAM’s sponsorship of an increasing range of voluntary insurance plans.

A variety of voluntary insurance options are available to RTAM members and their eligible dependents including: • • • •

Premier Travel with Trip Cancellation Additional Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Extended Health Care Dental Care

• Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance • Term Life Insurance • Home Insurance

For more information please contact the plan administrator, Johnson Insurance.

1-877-989-2600 | pbservicewest@johnson.ca www.johnson.ca/rtam #100, 17203 – 103 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB. T5S 1J4

RTAM sponsors pre-retirement seminars for teachers Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc. (“Johnson”) and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia. Johnson is a licensed insurance intermediary. RTAM Plans are administered by Johnson Inc. Premier Travel, Health and Dental are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security. Travel Insurance and Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Insurance are underwritten by RSA Canada. Home insurance is available through Johnson Inc. a licensed insurance intermediary. Policies are primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company. Eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions may apply. 0459_16