Vol. 31 | No. 2 | Fall 2019 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 RETIRED ASSOCIATIONTEACHERS’OFMANITOBA 40037581PN
RTAM Okanagan Chapter
All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received before November 13, 2019, 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. Published by 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 Acting Executive Director: Daryl Harvey Office Administrator: Denise Bellesia Member Services Coordinator: Nicole Welwood Board of Directors 2019-2020 President: Peggy Prendergast Vice -President: JoAnne Hoyak Secretary: John Sushelnitsky Treasurer: Pat Bowslaugh Past President: Joan Dawson Directors-at-Large Raymond Bisson Linda Blair Bill BethRayLindaDoreenBrianKenAlisonGuyJackRalphCannCibulaFraserHansenLoganMalcolmPattersonSageScottSitterSmith CreativeGaylDesign:PunzalanDirector, Blue Ink Media Email: Website:gayl@blueinkmedia.cablueinkmedia.ca Cover Image by: C. Sage Images : freepik.com and pixabay.com, except the ones provided by the contributors. Copyright © 2019 by RTAM 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 KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 31 No.2 • Fall, 2019 RETIRED ASSOCIATIONTEACHERS’OFMANITOBA President’s Message ................................................................................... 3 Political Advocacy 5 Don't Forget to Apply 5 RTAM Is Leaving A Legacy .......................................................................... 6 2019-2020 RTAM Committees & Chairs 9 Download the RTAM Brochure 10 University College of the North Scholarship ............................................... 10 Bringing Manitoba History Alive! 12 Retired Women Teachers' Association ....................................................... 14 RTAM – Okanagan Chapter ...................................................................... 15 RTAM - NARTA 15 Manitou Memories ................................................................................... 16 RTAM Staff ............................................................................................... 18 RTAM Wellness Advocacy 18 Disability Tax Credit is Available for Retired Educators ............................... 22 Take a Walk on the Wild Side* .................................................................. 25 Slips, Trips And Falls: Our Newest Data Reveals Causes Of Injury Hospitalizations and ER Visits In Canada ...................... 26 Get Your Family Out to Vote ...................................................................... 28 “THE BIG PAYOFF” For Reading 28 Workplace Education Manitoba (WEM) ..................................................... 29 Looking for Volunteers .............................................................................. 30 NOTICES & COMING EVENTS 31 2 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
CONTENTS
RETIRED ASSOCIATIONTEACHERS’OFMANITOBA
and Steinbach. CJNU is staffed mainly by volunteers and supported by the Winnipeg Foundation, which is also where our RTAM Student Award Endowment Fund is located, FOR GOOD,RTAM’sFOREVER.Officers'Committee met
nward and upward! Another chronological report. The second Board meeting took place on June 12 followed by a short meeting of committee chairs. Standing committees were established, the new office staff introduced and ongoing business and business from AGM discussed. The Officers' Committee was given permission to address the upcoming elections over the summer, as the date of the provincial election was set. So now, what happens next?
By the end of June, the Manitoba Senior’s Coalition set their plan in motion. John Sushelnitsky and I are the RTAM members on the Coalition and our responsibility is to discuss Income Security. What has come to be is an insert in the middle of the newspaper “Lifestyles” that is published once a month by Dorothy Dobbie of Pegasus Publications. The paper is free and distributed throughout the province at locations like your local Senior Centre or Safeway. So pick one up! Until March, RTAM will have a 500 word article each month on Income Security and how older adults are affected by societal events, what services are available to be of assistance, and where they are located. As well, we will be heard at 10:37 AM and 3:37 PM on radio clips entitled “Conversation with Connie” on the radio station CJNU, the Nostalgic Station, located on your FM dial at 93.7 or online at www. cjnu.ca/coffee or at 725 on your MTS TV dial. The station has a radius of listening ability to Portage La Prairie
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
President’s Message
→ RTAM.MB.CA n 3
Peggy Prendergast RTAM2019-2020President
in Portage la Prairie on July 12 to discuss the recommendation from the Political Advocacy Committee to send a post card of questions for the candidates in the federal and fast tracked upcoming provincial elections, that the committee put together at their June 13 meeting. Blue Ink Media, that designs and produces KIT, designed the postcard that you received in August. Because of the small amount of space available on the post card, it became evident that the website needed to be up-to-date. Ralph Cibula, Website Committee Chair, was included with Blue Ink Media and the office staff to set up a working process. Since then, a lot of work has resulted in the website slowly evolving into a source of current information about RTAM events: the election happenings, committee events like the Wellness Advocacy workshops in September and October, Student Award information and even some updated Chapter information. By the way, I have already received two invitations to attend a chapter meeting. I am looking forward to attending other chapter meetings so please don’t hesitate to invite me. We encourage you to use the website to keep your chapter members informed of meeting dates and any special events and for Next page
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all of this happening, 42 student award applications have been received and the Student Award Committee is meeting in late August to decide on the four winners of the four $850 awards this year. The Winter KIT will have the names of the winners and their sponsoring relatives. Stay tuned!
Editorial Committee SUMMER 2019 PHOTO CONTEST The two categories are: • Gardens: This can be any kind of garden: indoor or outdoor; container or in ground; personal or professional, etc. and anywhere in the world. • Eggs: Use your imagination: birds’ eggs, cooked or in the shell, decorative such as porcelain, chocolate, Ukrainian, glass, wax, etc. Photography CONTEST
All to be by fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m., October 1, 2019.
for the audit. Daryl Harvey came to us as a temporary replacement for the Member Services Coordinator in May and surprised us all with her previous experience as an ED with the City of Winnipeg and then with the Province. She agreed to come out of retirement to help us set up the office so that RTAM, as an organization that has been working toward having a Governance Board, can achieve that goal. RTAM will hire a part time Executive Director that will be trained by her before she goes back into retirement, which I hope is not for the foreseeable future. We could not have accomplished what we have without the hard work and cooperation of this great team.
RTAM
And there you have it. Another relaxing, quiet, summer break. Hope you had one. Actually, I rather like the excitement and writing all these reports, while looking out over a lovely Lake-ofthe-Woods bay near Kenora on a hot gorgeous summer day.
KIT
sent
entries
mail, email,
Judging by Gayl Punzalan Creative Director of Blue Ink Media
4 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
President's Message . . . continued from previous page
events in general in your area of the province that might interest other older adults or retired teachers who are not already members of RTAM. Call the office and talk to Denise Bellesia, the office administrator, or send us an email at info@ rtam.mb.ca.Aswellas
Full contest rules and entry forms available at www.rtam.mb.ca and at the RTAM office.
This was all possible because a new Acting Executive Director, Daryl Harvey, new Office Administrator, Denise Bellesia, with the help of Nicole Welwood, our Member Services Coordinator who returned July 2 and filled in background information, have worked out the financial system in the office and are now prepared
RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant Application
John Sushelnitsky, Chair, Political Advocacy
A
Don't Forget to Apply
Linda Scott, Chair, Membership & Chapters
COMMITTEE REPORTS
The RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant (CIG) is available to chapters to promote member engagement. Chapters are urged to develop a project and/or activity that meets the unique needs of their individual membership. Once the plan has been formulated, an application form should be completed and sent to the RTAM
office. Each chapter is eligible for a subsidy of up to $250 to assist with their project. Be aware that funding is limited. Please allow 2 - 3 weeks for processing.Download the form at https://bit.ly/2MRTJ9M For more information visit https://bit.ly/2OZbWVr or send us an e-mail at info@rtam.mb.ca
t our meeting on June 13, the Political Advocacy Committee set its priorities for the upcoming year. With upcoming elections provincially and federally this fall, the first item of business was to compile a list of questions for political candidates coming to Members’ doorsteps. In conjunction with the Officers’ Committee, the list was completed in July and sent to members in August. The questions highlighted RTAM’s commitment to seniors’ issues at both levels of government. The questions were non-partisan and sought the response of both the candidate and the party.
Political Advocacy
RTAM.MB.CA n 5
The next item was to remind Chapters of the October 1 United Nations Day of the Older Person. This event is international in scope and is a reminder to our communities of the contributions seniors have made and are making. There are ongoing studies of economic disparities, gender inequality, the K12 Education Review and news releases from the Government and the Opposition parties. Each member of the Committee has agreed to update developments in these areas so that we may inform the Board, as the situation arises.
Peggy Prendergast, RTAM President
Legacy 6 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
he 2019 RTAM Student Award Endowment Fund recipients will be announced in the Winter ‘Keep in Touch’ (KIT) magazine and on our website. Did you know the Fund has reached a monetary value large enough to provide $850 awards in 2019 to four students who are relatives of RTAM members? Through the compounding
ability of the monies held at the Winnipeg Foundation, these awards will increase exponentially FOREVER to provide young relatives of RTAM members support to realize their educational goals in the future. These young people will be the leaders of the future. Why wouldn’t we want to be part of their future success?
The increase in the fund over five years
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RTAM Is Leaving A
Aven Glufka
Calene Treichel
Other accomplishments include achieving his gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, two scholarships from RMTC, the prestigious Hubbell Award (air cadets), and several awards and full scholarships from Talent INC. in Toronto and Orlando.
Kelly Yeo
Since receiving the scholarship in 2013, Anthony has had many opportunities and has accomplished many things. Attending university was going to be difficult with learning disabilities, but that didn’t stop him from challenging himself. He auditioned for the four year honours program.
Presently, Anthony is enjoying his recent accomplishment of completing an honours degree: being successful despite his dyslexic disability; beating the odds; being able to choose and further study in a career he loves. Anthony appreciates his family’s support and the many teachers and mentors who have encouraged him to take risks, follow his dreams, and do wonderful things. He is very thankful for the financial assistance he has received.
Anthony Ferens
Let’s make $1000 awards our goal for 2020! Some of us often send a donation to a charity in memory of a loved one who has passed away. Consider leaving a gift in your will or even the proceeds of an insurance policy stating the Winnipeg Foundation is the beneficiary. Make the RTAM Endowment Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation your charity of choice for 2020. Encourage a young person who is beginning their adult life by investing in their education. We have spent so many years of our lives investing ourselves in the young people we have been fortunate enough to teach, why not continue that investment by supporting those who are dearest to us, our grandchildren, nieces and nephews who have a passion for education. Information under the Student Award Committee tab on the RTAM website: www.rtam.mb.ca will tell you how or call the Winnipeg Foundation or the RTAM office.
Anthony Ferens
The following four letters are written by sponsoring RTAM members whose relatives benefited from award monies in 2013. Help make this your member benefit by encouraging your young relatives to apply for an award when they graduate from Grade 12.
While he was in his third and fourth year of honours and devised theatre this past year, he performed in five productions. There was little time for a part time job with these long school hours and commitment. Scholarships were greatly appreciated to start his education.
COMMITTEE REPORTS Next page → RTAM.MB.CA n 7
has raised the award money to almost double its beginning value. Could that come next year? It is possible with your help. Each dollar we provide to the capital of the fund increases each year with the investing expertise of the Winnipeg Foundation.
My son, Anthony Ferens won a scholarship the first year our retired teaching society offered it.
Following my granddaughter, Aven Glufka’s graduation from grade 12 and receiving one of the first RTAM awards, she enrolled in the University
Sandra Ferens, Winnipeg, MB
Calene Treichel
of Winnipeg. In 2017, she completed her B.A. degree with a double major in French and Theatre, receiving the Gold Medal in Theatre Studies. She enrolled in the Faculty of Education program at U. of W.
Marlene Kentner, Dauphin, MB
Kelly began her final year of studies in Pharmacy at the University of Manitoba in September (2018). She has recorded an extraordinary academic record there over the past three years.
Elizabeth Stewart, Brandon, MB
I am writing in regard to the letter from Peggy Prendergast, asking about how my granddaughter used her $500 award, in 2013, and how she is doingCalenenow.Treichel was a recipient of a $500 RTAM Student Award, when she was graduated from high school in Boissevain, in 2013. Getting this award was very beneficial for her University expenses and was used towards paying her tuition for her first year at the University of Manitoba, beginning her Engineering Degree.
is from the small town of Stonewall, MB. After being given the opportunity to shadow a few pharmacists at a local pharmacy, she knew it was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. She often tells people that this was the best decision she has ever made. During her time at the College of Pharmacy at the University of Manitoba, Kelly has been very involved in advocating for the profession as one of Manitoba’s CAPSI representatives, and her passion for pharmacy quickly grew. Her greatest wish is to continue to spread this passion to others in the hopes of continuing to push this wonderful profession even further!
Dale Yeo, Stonewall, MB
You had asked how my granddaughter Kelly Yeo, a first year recipient of a RTAM Student Award that she very much appreciated receiving, is doing. It is a pleasure to provide an update for you.
Kelly Yeo
On June 3, 2018, she was presented with a Centennial Leadership Award while attending the annual Canadian Pharmacy Association Awards Ceremony in Fredericton, New Brunswick, as a U. of M. delegate. Kelly has won numerous other scholarships over the span of her pharmacy and pre-pharmacy studies. We are, needless to say, very proud of her efforts.
I hope this note tells you Aven’s story so far. She is enjoying her experiences
In 2018, Calene graduate with a Mechanical Engineering Degree, and was honoured by being awarded with the medal for graduating with the highest overall average in the 2018 class. Calene is continuing her education at Carleton University, in Ottawa, where she is taking her Master’s Degree. Good luck Calene.
COMMITTEE REPORTS 8 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
On completion of her first year she was accepted into the 10 month International program between U. of W. and Thailand. She did her final year and practicum at Lertlah School in Bangkok, Thailand. She completed her studies at the end of February, 2019. The award financially helped her to work towards achieving her dream of becoming a teacher. We are proud that she chose to carry on the family tradition of teaching.
The practice of giving out RTAM Student Awards is a fine idea. Based on our granddaughter’s experience, I can certainly attest to the need for such awards and their value to the recipient.KellyYeo
Chair: Linda Scott (Winnipeg)
Lynda
JoAnneMembers:Hoyak (MacGregor)
WilliamMembers:Taylor (Brandon)
Chair: Guy Hansen (Winnipeg)
BYLAWS AND POLICY
Rosalie Bornn (Dauphin)
DoreenMembers:Sage (Neepawa)
MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTERS
Chair: Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg)
Joan Dawson (Thompson)
MerylMembers:Orth (Brandon)
Chair: John Sushelnitsky (Portage la Prairie)
BENEFITS
CharlesMembers:Clifford (Portage la Prairie)
Chair: Alison Logan ( Winnipeg)
Julian Hoyak (MacGregor)
PatMembers:Opalko (Winnipeg)
WELLNESS ADVOCACY
RETIRED ASSOCIATIONTEACHERS’OFMANITOBA
JoAnne Hoyak (MacGregor)
Bill Cann (Winnipeg)
Pat Bowslaugh (Brandon)
OFFICERS
c) Chair:WebsiteRalph Cibula (Gladstone)
Allen Havard (Winnipeg)
Joan Rink (Brookdale)
LaurelArleneTunneyBilleckMcFarlane
DoreenMembers:Sage (Neepawa)
JoAnne Hoyak (MacGregor)
LindaMembers:Blair (Winnipeg)
John Sushelnitsky (Portage la Prairie)
Chair: Brian Paterson (Brandon)
Chair: Beth Smith (Dauphin)
POLITICAL ADVOCACY
Ken Malcolm (Dauphin)
a) Chair:KIT Doreen Sage (Neepawa)
Beth Smith (Dauphin)
John Sushelnitsky (Portage la Prairie)
Jack Fraser (Winnipeg)
b) Public Relations
Joan Dawson (Thompson)
Members: TBA
Chair: Linda Blair, Winnipeg
RTAM.MB.CA n 9
AGM AND ELECTIONS
Guy Hansen (Winnipeg)
RTAM
Wayne Hughes (Winnipeg)
COMMUNICATIONS
Dorothy Young (Winnipeg)
Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg)
Manitoba Seniors' Coalition Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg)
Emily Williamson
Ralph Cibula (Gladstone)
PENSION
Raymond Bisson (Winnipeg)
Esmeralda Havard (Winnipeg)
ACER-CART
Joan Dawson (Thompson)
KenMembers:Malcolm (Dauphin)
MTS 100th Anniversary Beth Smith (Dauphin)
Chair: Joan Dawson (Thompson)
Charles Clifford (Portage la Prairie)
Maureen Recksiedler (Stonewall)
Pat Bowslaugh (Brandon)
2019-2020 RTAM Committees & Chairs 2019-2020 Representatives on External Organizations / Committees
GROUP REPRESENTATIVES
Ray Sitter (Brandon)
Joan Dawson (Thompson)
John Sushelnitsky (Portage la Prairie)
RosalieMembers:Bornn (Dauphin)
Joan Goble (Thompson)
Laura Skelly (The Pas)
John Sushelnitsky
University College in the North Scholarship
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Since 1989 RTAM has been a strong collective voice representing retired teachers in the following areas: Pension support and political advocacy. Social connections and activities. Group and Travel Insurance Plans • OurHealthCommunications.andWelfare.strengthisinour collective voice that advocates, provides opportunities for personal well-being and the option to give back. Add your voice to our growing membership of approximately 10,000 members. RTAM InsuranceGroup Annually negotiates improved insurance policies for our members in areas such as Dental, Extended Heath, Travel and House insurance. An example is our “Prestige” Emergency Medical Travel Plan for Full Members, which is among the best available in the voluntary retiree market. There is no medical stability clause, which requires emergencies to be sudden and unforeseen. It covers multiple trips of 62 days duration, trip cancellation, baggage insurance and optional pre-trip supplementary extensions up to 212 days. Thousands of members, spouses and dependents enjoy these benefits. The plans are voluntary and can be single or family based. Chapters share their activities with each other to promote more involvement of all members. A French Language chapter promotes the bilingual aspect of our organization. Informs members about pension issues and changes including the annual cost-of-living Meets regularly with the Provincial Government, the Board of Teachers’ Retirement Allowances Fund (TRAF), The Manitoba Teachers’ Society (MTS) and local MLA’s and the Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités/ Canadian Association of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART). Liaisons with other senior-oriented groups to do research and coordinate position on issues Informs members and the public about ongoing issues such as Pharmacare. Advocates for the appointment of a RTAM member to the TRAF Board. Works with local chapters to lobby locally and to assist with provincial campaigns. Advocates for a better informed public on Provides seminars and workshops organized locally and provincially to inform members and to help them achieve individual wellness. Works with other senior-oriented groups to advocate on seniors’ issues. WHY JOIN RTAM? RTAM Advocacy For more information 1-877-989-2600www.johnson.ca/rtamcontactorphone JOIN RTAM A voluntary independent organization, RTAM’s work is carried out by: An Annual General Meeting open to all RTAM members. An elected Board of Directors open to all RTAM Standingmembers.Committees open to all RTAM Overmembers.20Chapters in Manitoba and out-ofMembershipthe-provincein Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités Canadian Association of Retired Teachers Full-time(ACER-CART)staff in our Winnipeg office How Does RTAM Operate? Call the RTAM office for an application, or indicate your intention to join RTAM when contacting TRAF or download an application from the RTAM Associatewebsite.membership is available for those with less than five years teaching experience.Members may have their fees deducted from the TRAF pension or may pay by cheque directly to RTAM. Annual RTAM fees are comparable to the price of one cup of coffee per month. Full membership requires that you have taught for five years as calculated by TRAF. How Do You Join RTAM? RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA NEED MORE INFO ABOUT RTAM? Download the RTAM brochure • Why Join RTAM? • RTAM Group Insurance • RTAM Member Services • RTAM Communications • RTAM Wellness • How Does RTAM Operate? • How Do You Join RTAM? Go to https://bit.ly/2Z9ck7G COMMITTEE REPORTS 10 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
he Retired Teachers' Association of Manitoba created a bursary for an Indigenous student of the North seeking post graduate studies. The amount of the bursary is $1,000 and will be administered by the University College of the North in The Pas.Their administration will select
Yours truly, Brie Phillips, First Recipient of RTAM Indigenous Bursary April 11, 2019
a student based on their application stressing previous achievement and financial need. The selection of that student will be communicated to RTAM. We are delighted to receive the name of Brie Phillips who is the first recipient of the RTAM student bursary.
“My name is Brie Phillips and I currently attend university at the University College of the North at The Pas Campus. I am in my fourth year of a five-year integrated studies program which works towards a degree in Bachelor of Education combined with Interdisciplinary Studies. I will be graduating next year!
I aspire to pursue my career as an Elementary school teacher in the North. I want to help within the Indigenous community, inspire and encourage as many people as possible: I want to truly make a difference in Education and the world. Thank you so much for your substantial contribution to my education! It is greatly appreciated!
All The Latest RTAM News At FingertipsYour VISIT RTAM ONLINE AT RTAM.MB.CA University of AlbertaUI Survey Photography Workshop At Assiniboine Park Volunteer Opportunity at Winnipeg Harvest Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prominent, often overlooked, condition among older adults. If you are age 65+ and experiencing UI, we (RTAM) would like to invite you to complete the following survey on behalf of Dr. Adrian Wagg. Bring your camera – DSLR, SmartPhone, Tablet, PowerShot – any digital camera works for this workshop. Whether you are experienced or a beginner, we will take you through the whole process of successful photography. Must enjoy working with a wide variety of people and various atmospheres, including: children and youth; teachers; and within classrooms; Experience working with children and youth is a substantial asset. FIND THE DETAILS AT RTAM.MB.CA RECENT POSTS Our website will make it easy for you to check out upcoming events, follow the ongoing work of our many standing committees, keep you informed on local chapter contacts and activities, and provide you with easy links to other websites frequently used by retired teachers. Email: Website:office@rtam.mb.cawww.rtam.mb.ca 206 - 1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Office/Voicemail Phone: 1-204-889-3660 Manitoba Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 Fax: 1-204-783-2011
In theory, it would be a short drive to Winnipeg. In a perfect world, however that would be a world without summer road construction. My hat goes off to our bus driver who not only overcomes the road construction, but takes us right to the front entrance of Rainbow Stage, on some very narrow and winding roads. I think the roads in Assiniboine Park were originally bridle paths. Clutching our tickets in hand, in we go, with only a few of us stopping for another pee break. The theater staff is very helpful and, as promised by Kelvon, we have good seats. The vendors are busy selling programs and 50/50 tickets as we get settled in. However, a member of the staff comes by and up grades all our seats, as the house is not full for the afternoon performance. An observation on my part is that
or several years now, the retired teachers of the Westman area and their friends have been very active enjoying their retirement and not content to sit on the front porch in a rocking chair. The yearly bus road trip has taken them all over the Westman and Eastsask area, to all points of theThiscompass!yearwas no exception and it was another great live theater experience at Rainbow Stage in Winnipeg to see the production of "Strike." The bus started out from Virden, Manitoba, at 8:00 a.m. with a few stops along the way to pick up some folks, bringing our number to 45 happy campers. I do mean happy campers, because it was a very comfortable bus, with air conditioning and the trip organizer, Kelvon Smith, with the help of Beth Allison, kept us busy with games, refreshments, movies and jokes as we rolled down the TCH. The bus even had enough empty seats that there was room for a few of the group to find a quite place to have a peaceful nap, lulled to sleep by the hum of the bus wheels. Did I mention it had a washroom? Some of us older teachers have a few plumbing problems. Oh, the joys of getting
F
Text and photo by Ed James
older. On every trip, it is always a surprise to see where we will have lunch, as most of us are not the fast food chain restaurant clientele. Lunch this trip would be the Rivercrest Motel, where we had a variety of choices and good size proportion, topped off with friendly service. Nobody left there hungry.
CHAPTER REPORTS 12 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
Bringing Manitoba History Alive!
The play begins and it was worth our travel in time and the cost. This production had it all with great set design, lighting and acting. The atmosphere of working class 1919 Winnipeg was on the stage in music, sights, songs and words. The play's story line showed the very real struggle for hard working new immigrants and returning W. W. 1 vets to find employment with a living wage. On the other hand, the factory owners' fears were well portrayed and the fear of Bolshevism for the comfortable world they lived in. The songs and music played an important part of the production and the young actors who played the newspaper boys and girls were described by production music director, Danny Schur, as a quadruple threat on stage, in that they could act, sing, dance and play a musical instrument. As a former history teacher, I can remember teaching my students about the Winnipeg General Strike and how it was a major point in Canadian social and economic history development. Had the play been on when I was still teaching, I would have
It was a great day for all concerned and the $250.00 grant from RTAM was well appreciated, since the COLA has not been that great the last few years. Who knows where the group will head out for next year, but I'm sure it will be worth it to learn, live and laugh. Thanks to Kel Smith, Beth and Glen for all that you do on these trips.
"As a former history teacher, I can remember teaching my students about the Winnipeg General Strike and how it was a major point in Canadian social and economic history development."
CHAPTER REPORTS RTAM.MB.CA n 13
about 90% of the audience are seniors with lots of white, grey and no hair. Again, the joys of old age.
made the trip to Winnipeg with them to see it. The number of sub plots about race, religion, love, fear, freedom of the press and the importance of family gave the audience an opportunity to get involved at different levels that perhaps they might have identified with. All too soon, it was over and the bus waited outside for us. However, this time we got caught up in five o'clock Winnipeg traffic, so it was another opportunity for a quick cat nap for some of us. We are heading for Portage la Prairie and a favorite dinner spot. This would be the local Royal Canadian Legion Branch and a great roast beef supper, with all the fixings and maybe a few liquid libations. By 10 p.m. and after a few drop offs along the way, we were back in Virden and the travelers drive off into the last rays of a late summer evening sun set.
After
Circle one: (Miss, Ms. Mrs.) Last Name First Name E-mail address: Preferred Phone number: City:Address: Postal Code: _____ Check here if you are aged 90 or over for a Free Lifetime Membership. Year of birth if over 90 (do not send any money)
CHAPTER REPORTS RWTA Executive 2018-2019 RWTA Executive 2019-2020 14 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
date, notices will be sent and phone calls or
he Retired Women Teachers' Association held the annual meeting of its executive on May 23, 2019 at the Belgian Club on Provencher Avenue with Pat Opalko assuming theMembershipchair. chair and retiring president, Cecile Alarie-Skene, announced that the club now has
***Membership cards will be distributed at each luncheon. If you wish to receive yours by mail, send a self-addressed stamped envelope with your membership form.
Retired Association _______ this form and return it with your cheque for $8.00 before October 1, 2019. this e-mails made only to members.
New _______ Complete
THE RETIRED WOMEN TEACHERS’ https://rtam.mb.ca/index.php/rtam-chapters2ASSOCIATION (A chapter of RTAM Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba) https://rtam.mb.ca Renewal
Women Teachers'
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FOR OFFICE USE ONLY: Cash DateCheque__________________________________________________________________processed__________________________ DO NOT CUT THIS FORM
266 members plus 14 life members. The club's next luncheon meeting will be held on September 26 and will feature a fashion show of fall and winter clothing with members acting as models. Membership in the RWTA is open to all former women teachers. For more information contact Cecile Alarie-Skene at caskene@mymts.net
Make cheque (no post-dated cheques) for $8.00 payable to: Retired Women Teachers’ Association, and mail to Cécile Alarie-Skene, RWTA Membership Convener 227 Parkville Bay Winnipeg MB R2M 2J6 Phone 204-256-6176 / caskene@mymts.net
RTAM – Okanagan Chapter
Thank you to RTAM for supporting this outreach through the Chapter Initiative Grant.
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E
ARTA held a celebration meeting at the old Stony Creek School on Riverbend Park in Neepawa, Manitoba on June 18, 2019. It was a regular meeting in conjunction with a celebration of the 100 anniversary of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, the 100 anniversary of the Winnipeg General Strike and the 30th anniversary of RTAM (Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba).
Carol and Pete, Sue and Glenn, Lorna, Betty and Roy, Sue and Lorne, Betty, Jack, Nancy, Barry, Doris and her friend from Germany, and Alba.
In other words, there were no wild fires here to put a damper on festivities. Thanks to Lorne Lisik and Glenn Forsyth for tending the BBQ, where everything was done to a turn, and to Lorna Rothwell and Roy Lycar for supplying the photos.
The day was comfortably warm and the food was great. A good time was had by all.
CHAPTER REPORTS RTAM.MB.CA n 15
Nancy Kostiuk
RTAM - NARTA
We are an older group and are looking forward for the newbie retired to join us down the road.
Text by Ralph Cibula, NARTA Member
ighteen members and friends congregated in West Kelowna for a delicious pot luck and barbecue on July 12. The weather was conducive to having an enjoyable outdoor visit.
A friendly visit in the Okanagan
Photo by Kira Paterson of the Neepawa Banner and Press
16 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
une 19 dawned bright and sunny. Twelve WREA members and the three guests left in a motor cavalcade to Manitou, Manitoba, to visit the homes of Nellie McClung. Our travels took us on a beautiful drive through the Souris River Valley at Wawanesa, east past the camel (mascot statue) at Glenboro, past Treherne, home of the bottle houses and south past one of southern Manitoba’s wind turbine farms.
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the podium from which Nellie McClung spoke in favour of the vote for women. There is also a bust of Nellie outside the Opera House. Upon leaving the Opera House, we proceeded to walk a few blocks down the main street of this charming little town. We saw the home of one of Nellie’s closest friends, the original site of McClung's Drug Store and other places of historical significance depicting the growth of Manitou. When we returned to our cars, we went on a short driving tour past St. Andrew’s United Church, which began as a Presbyterian Church prior to the amalgamation of the Presbyterian and Methodists congregations, Nellie McClung Collegiate and the Manitou Gas House, which is the only gas house left in Manitoba. Of course, it is not a gas house any longer but rather is a
CHAPTER REPORTS
Westman Retired Educators' Association
Text and photos by Judy Olmstead
The present-day Opera House was built in 1930 on the same site where the first one had burnt down. They did manage to save one item from the devastating fire and that one item was
WREA members and friends touring Manitou
The Manitou Opera House was our first stop. We were met by Bette Mueller, a retired teacher and her husband, Walter. They would serve as our very knowledgeable guides.
Manitou Memories
Both homes were full of artifacts from that time period and elicited many stories and memories from members of our group. It was truly a walk through the past for all of us as we remembered pieces of our own personal history.
RTAM.MB.CA n 17
The gas house in Manitou
Certainly, the highlight of our trip was touring the places where Nellie McClung lived when she came to Manitou to teach, where she began her writing career, where she raised her family and where she developed her philosophy and determination regarding the role of women in society. Our tour guide regaled us with stories of Nellie’s life in Manitou.
Nellie wrote “Sowing Seeds in Danny” in a study off the dining room.
CHAPTER REPORTS
The kitchen at Hazel cottage which Nellie described in one of her books
residence wherein the vat used to produce the gas for parts of Manitou is now the basement of a residence.
We toured Hazel Cottage, which was the Hasselfield home, located three miles north of Manitou, where Nellie boarded as a newly fledged sixteen year old teacher. Nellie went on to marry Wesley McClung, the town pharmacist and the son of one of Nellie’s mentors. Their home was a beautiful, stately prairie abode. It was where
Lunch took place across the highway at the Manitou Golf Course. The food was excellent and the view was lovely. Our day had come to an end and many of us left with a desire to return to this pretty little town where one of our most influential Manitobans resided.
We are grateful for the RTAM Initiative Grant which, as one of our members stated, “gave me the opportunity to see a part of Manitoba I have never seen before.”
Mural of McLung's pharmacy in downtown Manitou (Nellie's husband was the town pharmicist)
Hazel cottage where Nellie lived when she arrived in Manitou to teach
The room at her home which Nellie used for writing
Maximum registration of 25 people. Only first 25 will be registered
E-mail RTAM at: office@rtam.mb.ca Please type in the Subject Line: Participant’s Name, Address, E-mail and Phone Number.
FRIDAY October 18, 2019
Location: RTAM Office - 206 – 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
WELLNESS SEMINAR REGISTRATION FORM
Coffee and registration at 1:00 p.m. $10.00 paid at the door
Nicole Welwood
18 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
Presenters: Samantha Rodeck: Coordinator (TONS) Transportation Options Network for Seniors
Daryl Harvey
Chris Bohemier: Community Relations Specialist, MPI (Manitoba Public Insurance)
RTAM WELLNESS ADVOCACY
Half-Day Mini Seminar
RTAM Staff
We are pleased to advise that on July 2, Nicole Welwood returned from an extended leave and very easily eased back into her position as Member Services Coordinator. You will hear her cheerful voice or see her smiling face whenever you phone or drop by the office. Nicole’s friendly disposition is infectious! You will be smiling, too, when talking with her. That she is a wealth of information and always ready to be of assistance when dealing with you just adds to the positive experience. We are all very glad to have her back. Nicole is happy to be back, too!
Daryl Harvey is a retired senior government executive, who sometimes does temp work to help keep her skills and mind flexible, believing if you don’t use it you lose it. Although she came to RTAM in May as a temporary replacement for the Member Services Coordinator, RTAM is currently benefitting from her previous management experience with the City of Winnipeg including as a Policy Analyst for the Mayor’s Office and Executive Policy Committee and as Vice President of Finance and Administration with a former crown agency of the Province, The Manitoba Floodway and East Side Road Authority. While assisting the Board towards achieving its Governance Board goal, she is organizing the office’s financial and administrative functions to ensure the on-going
transition for the Board and the organization is smooth and seamless. Daryl is thoroughly enjoying her experience with RTAM.
EXTREME WINTER DRIVING CONDITIONS
Winnipeg Time:
2019 Place:
–
RETIRED ASSOCIATIONTEACHERS’OFMANITOBA WELLNESS SEMINAR Creativity In Retirement Discover the creativity lurking within you. Please consider attending. Date:
p.m. PROGRAM 9:30 - 10:00 Registration 10:00 Opening remarks 10:10 - 11:45 PRESENTER: Gayl Punzalan from BLUE INK MEDIA Bring your camera – DSLR, SmartPhone, Tablet, PowerShot – any digital camera works for this workshop. Whether you are experienced or a beginner, we will take you through the whole process of successful photography. We will be working both inside and outside in the lovely fall colours found in the park and the English Garden that is close by. NOON - 1:00 p.m. Gourmet Lunch from the Restaurant 1:00 - 2:30 Photography Exercise 2:30 - 3:30 Critique and Closing Please register early – limit of 40 registrants REGISTER FOR THIS WORKSHOP CONCERNSDIETARYEMAILPHONEADDRESSNAME SELF-ASSESSMENT Please check the items that apply to you I will bring a DSLR SmartPhone PowerShot Tablet I have attended a photography workshop before Yes No I am familiar with Exposure Triangle Composition Please send a cheque for $35.00 made out to “RTAM” together with this registration form to the RTAM Office at 206-1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg MB R3H 1B5 by September 13, 2019 RTAM.MB.CA n 19
GRAPHYPHOTOWORKSHOP FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, Assiniboine the Qualico Centre–10:00 a.m. 3:30
Conservancy Tamarack Room in
by the medicine man to receive a ritual aromatic smoke cleansing similar to how North American Indigenous people use sweet grass. Messages to invite guests were shouted from a cave with an echo off the surrounding hills several kilometres away.
From the museum we walked to the Valley Enclosure, the domain of the First Wife or Queen. Her position was protected by tall dry stone walls made of granite blocks about the size of bricks. Wide at the base and tapering at the top, the walls are buffered inside with rubble and rise to a height of eleven metres. An easily defended doorway leads into a ritual space with standing stones serving as a sundial to measure seasons. The huge inner area has spaces for living and other ritual sites such as a tower archeologists think was used to instruct young girls in the expectations of marriage.
– AN AFRICAN HISTORY LESSON
The choices of venue for visitors depended on whether they were coming for a ceremony, a judgement for some crime, or to consult with the king. Rituals and judgement were performed on a stage surrounded by tiers of courtiers, nobles and wives. The king presided from the judgement seat high above them on a rock which represented the back of the fish eagle, the symbol of his power.
Text and photos by Ann Timonin
The Great Zimbabwe Monument
Higher up the hillside is a reconstruction of a traditional African village where plaques outside each of the huts record the hierarchy of the king’s wives and children. Goods were assigned according to rank, although the king apparently favoured the fifth wife over the fourth. Traditional dancers performed a rain-making ceremony for us with gourd rattles on their legs making the sound of hoped for rain.
ot far from the Beit Bridge border between South Africa and Zimbabwe there is a World Heritage Site called the Great Zimbabwe Monument – evidence of an African civilization that endured from the 11th to the 15th centuries.Aguide met our tour group at the entrance and explained the site before leading us to the museum, where large plaques detailed the history and design of the area. Eight carved birds, one of which is now taken as the symbol of Zimbabwe on the flag, showed the progression of the kings memorialized in the development.
From the village, in 30°C heat, we climbed a steep path laid with granite blocks and occasional steps to the top of the hill where the king lived. During his reign, all visitors were obliged to pass
Rider Haggard used the historic structures as the location for King Solomon’s Mines. At one time 18,000 people were thought to have inhabited the settlement, significantly straining local resources. The king eventually dispersed the people to multiple small sites to the north in the time of Portuguese colonization because of this over population and, out guide said, in order to avoid having the Europeans act as middle men in the king’s traditional trade with the Arabs.
20 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
The king’s hut was specially guarded although it didn’t differ from those of the subjects. It stood in a protected clearing with a niche for the reigning king’s carved bird in the rock face nearby. At the death of the king, the entire structure was destroyed and a fresh set of seats were carved for the heir. Archeologists have identified seven previous sets of benches inserted into the walls around the hut space. A guard kept watch from the highest point on the hill and the king could escape danger through narrow passages or down a tunnel. The tunnel is to be explored with ground penetrating radar in the near future to establish where it went. Previous archeologists who tried to explore it did not return.
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Hilltop Fortifications
RTAM.MB.CA n 21
Replica African Village
"The tunnel is to be explored with ground penetrating radar in the near future to establish where it went. Previous archeologists who tried to explore it did not return."
Judgement Seat Fish Eagle
Entrance to the Valley Enclosure
The DISABILITY TAX CREDIT is a nonrefundable tax credit that reduces income tax payable for those who qualify. It is available to Canadians who are deemed to have “one or more impairments that impact the activities of daily living, where those impairments are not likely to get better any time soon and have already been in place for a period of at least one year.” Eligibility is based on the condition’s severity and length that
M
any people in Canada are suffering debilitating illness for years, unable to enjoy their retirement and their lifestyle has changed because of serious injury or persistent severe mental or physical condition. As Manitobans, we may have missed out on all or several of the disability credits that might be available to us, particularly the DISABILITY TAX CREDIT-DTC.
Disability Tax Credit is Available for Retired Educators
22 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
Peter J. Manastyrsky
TAX CREDIT is eligible to all individuals (young, middle age, seniors) whoever has a physical or mental ailment. Furthermore, this DTC is transferable to a caregiver if the impaired person does not have enough income to generate tax payable that can be reduced by this non-refundable credit amount.
There is a possibility of obtaining DISABILITY TAX CREDIT on behalf of a deceased person for their estate. The DTC can be obtained only
in the year of death if a medical doctor certified “before death” that the individual had a severe and prolonged mental and /or physical impairment in their medical file, and that the impairment was reasonably expected to last for at least 12 months or more. There must be an Executor of the Estate.
The DISABILITY TAX CREDIT is possibly one of the most frequently missed provisions on the tax return and under claimed. People are not aware of the large amount of tax refunds available to them. Once you have become familiar with the DISABILITY TAX CREDIT, you can benefit from it in two ways: by adjusting your previous returns and the second way by continuing to deduct the tax credit savings on returns you file in theDISABILITYfuture.
"As a retired educator, you might be unable to, or are having difficulty performing basic activities of daily living because of walking impairment (knee and/or hip problem), elimination of (bladder and/bowel function), feeding or dressing oneself, difficulty performing mental functions for everyday life; you might qualify for the DISABILITY TAX CREDIT."
The DISABILITY TAX CREDIT is a pivotal section of the Income Tax Act that opens the door to other tax benefits.
RTAM.MB.CA n 23
As a retired educator, you might be unable to, or are having difficulty performing basic activities of daily living because of walking impairment (knee and/or hip problem), elimination of (bladder and/bowel function), feeding or dressing oneself, difficulty performing mental functions for everyday life; you might qualify for the DISABILITY TAX CREDIT.
has impaired your ability to perform basic tasks.
This Tax Credit is separate from any of the other disability benefits. If you have paid taxes (total payable) in the past years, your claim for an adjustment can go back as far as 10 years, retroactively to the date of impairment.
Jerzy R. Bibik, Winnipeg, MB
Conrad A. Artibise, Winnipeg, MB
Elin Jolly, Vancouver, BC
May 2019
Clive Richard Taylor, Brandon, MB
F. Wilma L. McKerchar, Thunder Bay, ON
Theresa Longtin, Winnipeg, MB
Agnes Margaret Hall, Vancouver, BC
Josephine H. Zeller, Teulon, MB
M. Marie Kuhn, Winnipeg, MB
Anne Ezowske, Dauphin, MB
Barbara M. Scott, Crystal City, MB
Carol Lynn Stankey, Winnipeg, MB
Jake Letkeman, La Riviere, MB
Borislaw Bilash, Winnipeg, MB
Victor Jacob Loewen, Ste. Anne, MB
Elizabeth Brooks, Winnipeg, MB
Vernon Wayne Penner, Winnipeg, MB
Arva J. Hryciuk, Portage la Prairie, MB
Alice B. Laing, Steinbach, MB
Margaret J. Harrison, Winnipeg, MB
Margaret Anne Maciver, Newmarket, ON
Donna Wiwchar, Winnipeg, MB
John Rudolph Fast, Winnipeg, MB
F. Bernice Nowak, Swan River, MB
Charles A. McArthur, Souris, MB
Patrice I. Letain, Dauphin, MB
Trudy Lynne Chappellaz, St. Claude, MB Walter Hercia, Winnipeg, MB
June 2019
Margaret R.M. Lesperance, Portage la Prairie, MB
May 2019
June 2019
Olga M. Skolrood, Dauphin, MB
Presented when a member reaches the age of 90
Lorraine Anita Marie Arbez-Meridji Winnipeg, MB
M. Lucille Muldoon, Ottawa, ON
Anne Moroz, Winnipeg, MB
Marjorie L. Connor, Comox, BC
Beatrice E. Venables, Powell River, BC
G. Ivan McBurney, Winnipeg, MB
April 2019
Joseph-Arthur Dupuis, Grande Prairie, MB
Mervyn Farough, Winnipeg, MB
John Suderman, Dauphin, MB Edwin A. Woods, Stonewall, MB
M. Eileen Hamilton, Roland, MB
John David McDowell, Winnipeg, MB
Isabella Maksymyk, Winnipeg, MB
In LifeMemoriamMembers
Alfred Z. Zorniak, Winnipeg, MB
Edith M.K. Richmond, Treherne, MB
December 2018
Heather Kathleen Muirhead, Portage la Prairie, MB Hugo Muller, Winnipeg, MB
Barbara Matthew, Winnipeg, MB
Colin S. Walley, Saskatoon, SK Sophie West, Winnipeg, MB
Karen Elizabeth McNeil, Boissevain, MB
Marion E. Kreshewski, Brandon, MB
James Allan Smith, Winnipeg, MB
Carol Ann Pelton, Winnipeg, MB
Heather Gale Rothnie, Hamiota, MB
Murielle Savard, Prince Albert, SK Lois C. Scott, Winnipeg, MB
Leonard Takoski, Victoria, BC Kethleen Tomecko, Oakbank, MB
March 2019
Ronald George Smith, Brandon, MB
24 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
Irene Dolores Tetreault, Ste. Genevieve, MB
Douglas Cowling, Yorkton, SK
July 2019
Evelyn G. Dempsey, Winnipeg, MB
Eldeen M. Henderson, Winnipeg, MB
Clara E. Darvill, Winnipeg, MB
Lillian Joyce MacMartin, Winnipeg, MB
Nettie Rose Corneslson, Rosenort, MB
January 2019
The Rosedale Farm Trail is located 16 km north of Neepawa on Highway 10, then 8 km west on PR 265. The two trails are each 2.5 km in length. They wind through the Rosedale Farm Conservation Project, a farm rehabilitation experiment begun in 1966. The rolling trails pass through coniferous plantations and natural woodlands with panoramic views from the Riding Mountain Escarpment to the eastern farmlands.
Robert and Norma Somers
The Langford Trail is accessed from Highway 16. It is located 10 km east of Neepawa and then 5 km south on Road 81 W. There are five different trails, ranging in length from 1.2 to 3 km, totalling 10 km in all. The trails meander through mixed woodlands of oak, aspen, and pine as well as grassy prairie with flat and gently rolling terrain.
Come feed your soul; soak up the natural beauty of these two trails, take in other attractions in the area and reap the many benefits of a walk on the wild side.
*Apologies to Lou Reed
Take a Walk on the Wild Side*
Both trails have trail maps, interpretative signs, rest stops with benches and simple washrooms.
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A view from Rosedale Farm Trail
RTAM.MB.CA n 25
e all know that walking is a great way to exercise - it’s simple and easy to do. And walking in beautiful places adds the benefits of stress reduction and nature appreciation.Twobeautiful foot trails await you in the Neepawa, MB, area. Both trail projects were developed and are maintained, in large part, by retired teachers.
Langford Trail
He encourages seniors to use handrails and grab bars in public spaces and to carry a little bottle of hand hygiene gel to use afterward.
Falls prevention
• Collided with or hit by people or objects
Last year, seniors accounted for more than half of all injury-related hospitalizations among Canadians. Women made up almost two-thirds of seniors’ hospitalizations.
Parachute Canada also offers tips for preventing falls and other preventable injuries. Best practices include having non-slip surfaces in the tub and shower and asking for help with tasks that can’t be done safely alone.
Julie Bortolotti, Communications Specialist, Communications Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI)
Other causes of injury and trauma
• Wear safe footwear indoors and outdoors to reduce slips.
While slips and falls were to blame for the majority of injury hospitalizations, there are many other causes. The top 5 in our data are
• Vehicle collisions
Seniors account for half of injury-related hospitalizations
• Accidental poisoning
26 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
Geoff Fernie, Senior Scientist and falls prevention expert at the University Health Network and the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, provides 2 practical ways for seniors to prevent falls:
• Install easily graspable handrails on both sides of your stairs and outdoor steps at home — and use them.
Mr. Fernie recommends that seniors change into running shoes after arriving home — rather than walking around in socks or bare feet — to help reduce the risk of slipping. He also suggests
SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS: Our Newest Data Reveals Causes Of Injury Hospitalizations And ER Visits In Canada
buying new winter boots every year and following recommendations to ensure that the treads have maximum slip-resistance are not worn out.
• Falls
• Attempted suicide and self-inflicted injury
Our data shows that 4 out of 5 injury hospitalizations involving seniors were due to falls. Over the past 3 years, injury hospitalizations among seniors due to falls increased by 9%, or about 8,900 people, the largest increase among hospitalizations for seniors.
I
t doesn’t take much — a missed step, an out-ofplace rug or an item left on the floor can cause a nasty fall. And fall injuries send thousands of Canadians to the hospital each year. Earlier this month, we released our latest Injury and Trauma Quick Stats, which explore causes of injury-related hospitalizations and emergency room visits.
he recipient of the 2019 RTAM Distinguished Service Award was announced at the AGM Reception on May 7, 2019, held at the Clarion Hotel and Suites, Brandon, Manitoba.
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• The joint MTS/RTAM Pension Adjustment Account Committee to address the dispersal of the restricted surplus fund. The TRAF proposal provided that the Restricted Surplus be distributed over a five-year period which
The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual whose service to RTAM has been extraordinary. In 2019, one RTAM member has been honoured. This brings the number of Distinguished Service Award recipients to 22 since the award was established in 2001.
• KIT proof reader (Member)
• Served, actively, on local committees.
• Chaired local MTS committees.
Since retiring, she has been a strong supporter of the Dauphin Area Retired Teachers’ Association (DARTA), having served as President three times. (Two one-year terms and one two-year term).
served on many committees, as either a committee member or the Chair of the committee:
Rosalie Bornn retired from Dauphin-Ochre School Area, which later became Mountain View School Division, in June 2006 after thirty-five years of full-time teaching. She was the Local MTS president during Amalgamation and her leadership during that period was crucial to the development of successful teacher relations.
Throughout her working career, she was active with MTS (Manitoba Teachers’ Society):
• Membership and Chapters (Member and Chair)
• Bylaws and Policy (Member and Chair)
Next page → RTAM.MB.CA n 27
Projects that were undertaken during her tenure as President:
The names of the RTAM Distinguished Service Award winners are placed on a permanent plaque in the RTAM office. The 2019 RTAM Distinguished Service Award winner is Rosalie Bornn.
2019 RTAM Distinguished Service Award Winner
• Active committee membership on provincial MTS standing committees.
• Pensions (Member)
She was vice president in 2015 – 2016. She was president for two years, 2016 – 2018.
In her role as vice president and president, she was active with ACER-CART (Canadian Association of Retired Teachers) and travelled to Ottawa for their AGM for three years.
Rosalie joined the RTAM Board in 2008 and
• AGM and Elections (Chair)
• Educational Advocacy and Student Awards (Member and Co-Chair)
• Served on local executive.
LEGO LEADER
Skills Required:
• basic literacy skills
• Finalized the Strategic Plan for RTAM and implemented it in 2017.
Date: October 7 - December 19, 2019
LITERACY TUTOR
Description of Duties:
• play games
commenced on July 1, 2018.
Address: 617 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB
• Passion for Lego
• RTAM requested and received observer status authorization from MTS for RTAM Directors to attend MTS Regional Meetings for the purpose of information sharing on critical matters currently affecting the members of MTS.
• patience & a sense of humour
• write notes about the child and how the lesson went and concerns which may arise
Contact Karen Velthuys at kvelthuys@ldamanitoba.org
• Secured the services of an independent chairperson to support the flow of the business meeting at AGM.
Time Commitment : 90 minutes, once a week (evenings) for 10 weeks
Tuesday and Thursday (10 weeks) - 6:45 – 7:45
• lead one student through a given lesson plan containing guided reading, phonetics, spelling, sight words and writing (training & feedback is provided)
• Ability to foster experiential learning
Karen Velthuys, Executive Director, Learning Disabilities Association of Manitoba
Skills Required:
Looking for Volunteers
We require individuals to lead our program and supervise our youth during their "builds".
• RTAM’s change in governance direction from a working board to the incorporation of the Executive Director position with increased office staffing added through the Member Services Coordinator position. For the first time, there is consistent coverage for six hours a day, Monday to Friday.
• MTS and RTAM worked collaboratively to develop a joint response to the preliminary recommendations of the Pension Benefits Act Review.
• flexibility in scheduling
Address: 617 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB
• After a three-month interim trial period, the board passed a motion to restore increased executive function to the Officers’ Committee.
Time: 5:15 - 6:45 P.m.
Description of Duties: Lego® Club is a social development program that teaches students how to work as a team to solve a problem. Lego® Club provides a safe and inviting environment where youth can learn and practice independent social skills.
28 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
• Ability to relate to diverse learners
Monday and Wednesday (10 weeks) - 4:30 – 5:30
Date: October 8Th - November 12, 2019
• Patience and a sense of humour
• Conflict management skills
• Ability to delegate
• Distribution of RTAM’s “Join Us” brochure at MTS Retirement Seminars. Throughout the ten years she was on the RTAM board, Rosalie mentored new RTAM members and encouraged them to take the role of chairperson of a committee. This enabled them to function effectively as a successful committee chairperson.Rosaliehas shown her dedication to retired teachers in retirement, as a member of the RTAM Board for ten years, as she showed for active teachers, in her thirty-five years as a teacher.
• ability to follow direction, work independently and as a team member
e sure to vote and do it as early as you can. If possible, do it at an advance poll so that you are not hampered by poor weather or personal illness, etc. Make sure your vote is counted!Takeyour spouse! Take your grandchildren! Have them observe the political process and appreciate the need for all citizens, all taxpayers, to be a part of our society. Help them to realize the need for all Canadians to get out and vote! It is not right to complain about things if you do not vote.Voting! It is the right thing to do.
5. What group accounts for half of injury-related hospitalizations?
Get Your Family Out to Vote
Submissions must be received by: November 6, 2019.
4. Where can you take a “Walk on the Wild Side”? (Name the area and the two trails).
The winner of the KIT Summer 2019 contest was Dorothy Young of Winnipeg, MB.
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8. Explain what the RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant is.
Ken Malcolm, PA Member
1. Where is the RTAM office located?
3. What does the Canadian Snowbird Association offer retired people who like to travel?
Here are your fall contest questions and information. Find the answers to the following questions and submit your entry by: a) email to bxssmith@mymts.net, with KIT Reading Contest in the subject line, or b) by mail to Beth Smith, RTAM KIT Reading Contest 206-1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5
2. Explain what “BrushWorks” is about.
7. What did the retired teachers of the Westman area do to “Bring Manitoba History Alive?”
9. Give two practical ways for seniors to prevent falls.
“THE BIG PAYOFF” For Reading
10. How do you join RTAM?
6. What are the two categories for the RTAM Summer 2019 Photography Contest?
A random draw among entries with all answers correct will determine the winner. Be sure to include your name, mailing address, and phone number. The prize is your choice of a $15.00 gift card; Tim Hortons, Superstore, McDonald’s, Subway. Please identify which gift card you prefer. The winner will be announced in the next edition of KIT. Good Luck!
Thank you to all the readers who entered the summer "Big Payoff" Contest
RTAM.MB.CA n 29
mobile-readable! To
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There have been some problems with readers still receiving a hard copy of KIT after asking for digital only. Work has been done on the digital list. However, if you are still receiving a hard copy, please e-mail dsage@mymts.net with your name and complete mailing address.
• Able to work Wednesday evenings
30 n RTAM KIT Fall 2019
• Experience customizing and building lesson plans with a workplace goal in mind.
Your RTAM KIT is now 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. Not available for non-RTAM members.
orkplace Education Manitoba (WEM) is seeking an individual to facilitate and instruct Essential Skills in our Selkirk WEST Centre and Interlake Region. The successful candidate will help learners connect the skills they are learning to practical application in the workplace. We are looking for a Contract DesiredInstructor.experience includes:
Workplace Education Manitoba (WEM)
• Essential Skills instruction with a Math focus
• Experience in working with multi-skill, multilevel groups.
• Adult learning facilitation, assessment and recording
Our WEST Centers are based on adult learning principles – for those that understand and relate to this instruction and facilitation – this work is forPleaseyou. send your cover letter/resume to irc@wem.mb.caForadditional information please visit our website at www.wem.mb.ca Position open until filled.
Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!
Would you like to make a difference by helping our community members to learn and to speak English?
• Trip planning
• New border-crossing protocols and customs requirements, especially when travelling to the United States
• Importance of travel health insurance
NOTICES & COMING EVENTS
• Restrictions and limitations of government health insurance plans
Saturday, October 5 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - cafe
16th annual BrushWorks -St. Paul's Fort Garry Friday, October 4 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. - wine and cheese
For Rent
Date: Oct. 4, 2019
options such as: Portraits from Life, Basic Design, Woodland Art, Cartooning 101, Teen Manga, Artivism, Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, Acrylic Mediums, Gouache, Charcoal Portraits, Watercolour, Expressive Painting in Water Soluble Oils & much more!
Free parking all around, wheelchair friendly, ages 7 years & Toup.register:
www.forumartcentre.com/classes or register@forumartcentre.com or call 204-235-1069.
The free Snowbird Retirement Kit is for all retired people who like to travel. The package includes:
Register now for our Fall Art classes starting September 9 at Forum Art Centre, 120 Eugenie Street in St.
• 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 Personal Accident Insurance Plan.
• Medipac Travel Insurance Plan.
Please consider donating items: Yearbooks, Photos, School Newspapers, Shirts, Uniforms, Trophies etc.!
• CSA Auto Club.
• Information on retirement abroad.
• CSA Travellers’ Checklist.
We Need Your Memorabilia!
SNOW BIRDS’ SPECIAL OFFER
Place: St. Paul's Fort Garry, 830 North Drive (204) 475 7549 (church office for information)
Details: 4:30-7:00 Anniversary ceremony and former staff and student get together.
Art Classes
Note* Staff from the early years (1970s) of Bruce Junior High please contact Wendy Sutton at wsutton8670@gmail.com.
Travelling during your retirement involves keeping informed on critical issues:
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!
Furnished oceanfront condo in downtown Victoria, BC; 2 bedrooms/2 bathrooms. Call 1-204-485-4583 or email evergreengate@mymts.net
(Note: Loaned memorabilia needs to be labelled and picked-up Oct. 4th at the conclusion of the event):
• A one-year complimentary CSA membership.
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
Memorabilia drop off starts August 26th, 2019 at BMS
40+Boniface.Class
Sunday, October 6 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. -cafe
WWW.SNOWBIRDS.ORG
RTAM.MB.CA n 31
• Safety issues for Canadians
• CSA Travel Information Guide.
Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960
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.
Location: Bruce Middle School, 333 Booth Ave.
Bruce Middle School 50th Anniversary
A 60th Reunion for Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960 is being planned for July 2020. We are looking for the following former teachers or classmates: Linda Lucht, Miss Ishenburg, Chester Johnson, Heather Hepworth, Miss Oberck, Miss Connor, Joe Segal, Colleen McCann, Mrs. Cartwright, Bob Sutton, Wallace Linton And Don Suderman. Please contact Willa Keith at willakeith3319@icloud.com or at (204) 745-2714.
For more information please contact the plan administrator, Johnson Insurance. 1.877.989.2600 | www.johnson.ca/rtampbservicewest@johnson.ca #100, 17203 – 103 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB. T5S 1J4 RTAM sponsors pre-retirement seminars for teachers. Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc., a licensed insurance intermediary, and operates as Johnson Inc. in MB. RTAM Plans are administered by Johnson Inc. Health and Dental are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security. Prestige Travel and Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Insurance are underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of 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. GROUP BENEFITS 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 options. A variety of voluntary insurance options are available to RTAM members and their eligible dependents including: • Prestige Travel with Trip Cancellation • Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance • Additional Stand Alone Trip Cancellation • Term Life Insurance • Extended Health Care • Home Insurance • Dental Care Voluntary Benefits for RTAM Members. 0459_19
