KIT Magazine - Spring 2016

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 27 | No. 4 | Spring 2016 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 1-204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | rtam@mymts.net | rtam.mb.ca

2016

You are invited to the

Annual General Meeting WINNIPEG, MB

OF THE RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA Wednesday, May 11, 2016 Norwood Hotel, W innipeg, MB

112 Marion Street, Winnipeg, MB

R2H 0T1

PH: 204-233-4475 or 1-888-888-1878 (toll-free)

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All members of RTAM are welcomed and encouraged to attend the AGM and associated events.

All RTAM members and a guest are invited to a reception hosted by RTAM on Tuesday evening, May 10, 2016.

KEEP IN TOUCH All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mts.net and received

by May 11, 2016, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies nor views of RTAM. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

UPCOMING EVENTS

March 16 and March 30, 2016: Mini-Seminars April 26, 2016: Winnipeg May 10, 2016: Chapter Presidents’ Meeting (Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg) May 11, 2016: RTAM AGM (Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg) RTAM Travel Seminars Third Wednesday of each month RTAM Office, 206-1555 St. James Street, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

RTAM PLANS ADMINISTERED BY JOHNSON INC.

If you require information and brochures, or if you have any questions concerning these plans (Dental, House Insurance, Long Term Care, Life, Emergency Medical Travel) contact: Johnson Inc. Claims and Administration Information, 11120 178th Street, Edmonton AB T5S 1P2 Toll Free 1-877-989-2600 | Phone (780) 413-6536 |Fax (780) 420-6082 Email: pbservicewest@johnson.ca

NOTICE TO PAID KIT ADVERTISERS

Note: The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba does not endorse or promote any products, services or events presented in paid advertisements, the Announcements or Volunteer Opportunities sections, unless specified.

HAVE YOU MOVED OR CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS?

Contact TRAF at 204-949-0048 or toll free at 1-800-782-0714 or mail to Room 330, Johnston Terminal, 25 Forks Market Road, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4S8.

RTAM can not change your address.

FREE PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Not-for-profit organizations who wish to place public service announcements, volunteer opportunities with service groups, school or teacher reunions are encouraged to do so. Submissions are printed free of charge.

THANKS FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

We would like to thank all those who contributed material for KIT. When emailing in files please use black ink only and no formatting. Please keep writing. Photos: 1500 pixels or professionally developed.

2 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2016

Vol. 27 No. 4 • Spring, 2016

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: rtam@mymts.net • www.rtam.mb.ca Editor-in-Chief: Doreen Sage Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Phone: 204-476-5772 Email: dsage@mymts.net Administrative Assistant: Mary-Anne Slegers Office Assistant: Grace Reimer Board of Directors 2015-2016 President: Marvin Krawec Vice -President: Rosalie Bornn Secretary: Joan Dawson Treasurer: Judy Olmstead Past President: Wayne Hughes Directors-at-Large Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen JoAnne Hoyak Ken Malcolm Carol Pelton Peggy Prendergast Doreen Sage Ray Sitter Beth Smith Wally Stoyko John Sushelnitsky Design: Blue Ink Media Email: info@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images are licensed from fotolia.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2016 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

Contents President’s Message......................................................5

RTAM Benefits Update April 2016.............................. 11 RTAM Wellness Committee......................................... 14

Detachable Election Material..............................17-24

A Good Reunion

37

Brandon College Teacher Training Class of 1960

Winter Driving Skills................................................... 33 ACER-CART Celebrates 25 Years..........6 AGM Forms................................... 7-10 Press Conference...............................16 Farewell to Carol...............................16 Michael Czuboka: Manifest Destiny – A Novel...........30 Not the End, But a New Beginning....31 MTS 100th Anniversary.....................31 RWTA...............................................32 In Memoriam....................................32

Mary-Anne Slegers – Administrative Assistant..................32 Life Members....................................32 Political Advocacy..............................33 Pre-Retirement Seminars...................34 RTAM – Calgary & Area Chapter........35 RTAM – Okanagan Chapter...............35 Archiving for MTS .............................36 A Great Reunion...............................37 CLASSIFIEDS.....................................39

35

Calgary & Area Chapter Luncheon, held on December 3, 2015, was attended by twelve former Manitobans.

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

34

Vol. 27 | No. 3 | Winter, 2015 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 1-204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | rtam@mymts.net | rtam.mb.ca

To all who send maTerial To KiT • Please do not send your material as “read only” • Attachments cause problems • Send your material in the body of an email • No PDF file unless you are paying for space • Send your photos as usual

Winter 2015 Issue cover image by Judy Olmstead

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PhoTo ConTesT deTails on PaGe 6 ACER-CART documents in English/French and McMaster’s Optimal Aging Portal description, information sheet and how to be a partner can be downloaded from our website, rtam.mb.ca

Pre-Retirement Seminars Your RTAM KIT is now mobile-readable!

Visit rtam.mb.ca for details.

Pre-Retirement Seminars are brought to you by RTAM the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

RETIRED TEACHERS’

RTAM STUDENT AWARD APPLICATION FORM

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) awards annually up to four (4) post secondary STUDENT AWARDS of $500.00 each for relatives of RTAM members.

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Criteria for selection: (The applicant must be) 1) A relative of a RTAM Member 2) Involved in school and community activities 3) A Grade 12 Graduate 4) Entering the first year of a post secondary education program.

APPLICANT’S INFORMATION PLEASE PRINT

First name: Last name: Mailing Address: Postal Code: Phone Number:

Cell Number:

E-mail Address: School (Graduated from Grade12): School Address: (Street)

Year Graduated: (City)

(Postal Code)

Post Secondary Plans Program

Location

RTAM SPONSORING MEMBER INFORMATION Please Print

Name Address Contact Information To be completed by sponsoring RTAM Member:

I confirm that the applicant __________________________, has the following relationship to me ___________________________ RTAM Member’s Signature:

Phone No.:

Applicant’s Signature

Date:

Date:

THE DEADLINE FOR 2016 APPLICATIONS IS JULY 15, 2016 If further information is required, please contact RTAM at: rtam@mymts.net or www.rtam.mb.ca or #206 – 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone: 204-­‐889-­‐3660/ 1-­‐888-­‐393-­‐8082 Phone messages may be left at any time The RTAM office normal hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Check website for changes.)

Office/Voicemail Phone: 1-204-889-3660 Manitoba Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082

SUBMISSIONS TO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1. Application Form 2. Applicant’s description of school and community activities (one page) 3. Letter of reference/support from a non-family member (one page) 4. Final Grade 12 official high school transcript of marks (copy only)

Email:rtam@mymts.net Website: www. rtam.mb.ca

206 - 1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A Belated Happy New Year To All Of Our Members Marvin Krawec RTAM President 2015-2016

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

W

elcome to 2016. I trust that it is unfolding for you according to hoyle as we head into spring.

Spring is a time of renewal, transformation and regeneration.

Metaphorically speaking, the same is true of RTAM and its Board, and, you have an opportunity to contribute in this regard.

In this issue of KIT, you will find information and forms that invite you, the member, to make a commitment to RTAM. Those forms pertain to the RTAM AGM which is coming up on May 10 and 11.

Our hope is that you will choose to attend and participate in discussions pertaining to our concerns, and, perhaps volunteer to serve on one of many of the committees, or, better still, seek a position on the board.

Your input is an integral part for the success of RTAM. RTAM is always looking for individuals who are willing to get involved. If you feel that you can contribute positively for the betterment of RTAM, volunteer to serve on a committee, or, file your name for nomination to the board.

This is your organization.

Secondly, April 19, 2016, is Manitoba’s 41st general election. We urge you to exercise your franchise.

There are many important issues that affect seniors. RTAM, along with

other senior organizations, has joined forces for common cause issues.

On February 18, the group held a press conference to draw attention to the plight of many seniors. There are major issues that need to be addressed.

In this issue of KIT, you will find information relating to those concerns. It is organized in a fashion similar to what ACERCART had outlined for the federal election. Thus, when an opportunity arises for anyone of us, to have a discussion with anyone running for election to the legislature, we can use the data found in KIT to find out whether these aspirants are familiar with senior’s issues.

We need to remind those, who are seeking office, that grey matters in more than one way. Seniors make up a good percentage of the voters. If politicians ignore our voice, they do so at their peril.

I should like to acknowledge those member of the RTAM Board and the other senior organizations for their diligence and perseverance in putting the information together for the members’ benefit.

I want to also acknowledge Norm Gould and the MTS for supporting our AGM; morally and monetarily.

RTAM is grateful for your generous support. Thank you very much. §

RTAM.MB.CA n 5

ACER-CART

ACER-CART Celebrates 25 Years Vaughn Wadelius Special Advisor to ACER-CART

I

n June, 2016, the Canadian Association of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART) will reach a significant benchmark in its history--its 25 year anniversary! Looking back to the first tentative discussions in the 1980s about the possibility of forming such an association and the eventual success of this organization today, one realizes that it took the good will and hard work of many individuals to be able to celebrate in 2016. The discussions initiated by a BC Retired Teachers’ Association vice-president in 1984, the responding encouragement of a Canadian Teachers’ Federation president and the early financial support by CTF for an initial meeting in Ottawa were critical in the eventual founding meeting on June 15, 1991.

Today, this national association has 13 provincial/territory retired teacher association members representing 136,968 retired teachers and it has continued to improve in its influence at the national level. Through its development years, its annual general meetings have identified, discussed and debated issues that affect retired teachers and seniors in general. As a result, directions and decisions have been established that assist its members in their focus, their communication among themselves and provide a collaborative approach in dealing with the national government.

Growth in ACER-CART’s influence over 25 years has been steady. Its bylaws, policies and positions have reflected the commitments of its members during that period. In the mid-1990s,

6 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2016

the importance of being a bilingual organization was recognized and into the 2000s the importance of group and collaborative advocacy was accepted.

This perspective reflected back upon the issues at its founding--support for quality education, health care in all its aspects and the safeguarding of retiree pensions.

In 2002 ACER-CART’s public face was enhanced with the development of a website, and further, in 2005, with the adoption of a logo and the naming of its national newsletter. In 2006, production of important documents in both official languages was achieved. By 2007, ACERCART had become incorporated and its policies and practices codified for better understanding and consistency. ACER-CART proved its adaptability by updating its executive membership over the years to better reflect the size and location of its members and in seeking ways to collaborate with other like minded national organizations.

An enhanced direct service to member Directors was achieved through the inclusion of training and discussion seminars at the ACERCART annual general meetings. The development of a political advocacy strategy and support documents for the 2015 Canadian election were significant achievements that were well received across the country by retired teachers and others.

The 2016 AGM will celebrate the many individuals who, along with their provincial members, have contributed their time and talents since 1991 to energize the national association. ¡

2016 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg, MB WEDNESDAY, MAY 11, 2016 Norwood Hotel, 112 Marion Street Winnipeg, MB R2H 0T1

PH: 204-233-4475 or 1-888-888-1878 (toll-free) ALL RTAM MEMBERS ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND Advance Registration Fee, if received on or before April 11, 2016, is $15.00.

Registration Fee, if received after April 11, 2016, is $25.00.

The registration fee includes a pre-AGM afternoon presentation and evening reception (cash bar) for the member and a guest on May 10th, and the AGM (includes lunch) on May 11. Indicate your attendance and lunch selections below. REGISTRANTS MUST MAKE THEIR OWN HOTEL RESERVATIONS. The Norwood Hotel is offering a reduced rate for reservations made on or before April 1, 2016. Refer to Reservation Group #207766.

RTAM AGM REGISTRATION FORM Name Address

City & Prov.

Postal Code

Date Tues.

May 10

Wed. May 11 Total Fees

Phone

Event & Time

Email

Attending (Y or N)

Guest (Y or N)

Advance Registration Fee

Registration Fee After April 11

$15.00*

$25.00*

Presentation 3:30 to 4:30 pm Reception 5:30 to 9 pm AGM 9 am to 4 pm AGM Lunch Noon- 1 pm

*

Enclose cheque made payable to RTAM in the amount of the Total Fees.

* Circle the applicable registration fee. If a guest is joining you for Lunch at the AGM, please enter $10.00 in the applicable registration fee column. Total the column.

REGISTRANT LUNCH: ❑ Grilled Chicken ❑ Pan-Fried Pickerel ❑ Vegetarian Lasagne GUEST LUNCH: ❑ Grilled Chicken ❑ Pan-Fried Pickerel ❑ Vegetarian Lasagne GUEST NAME: __________________________________________________________________________________ Please identify any health related dietary concern regarding the lunch selection for you or your guest: ___________________ _________________________________________________________________ Mail to: RTAM – AGM 2016, 206 – 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 by May 4, 2016 RTAM.MB.CA n 7

2016 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg, MB “CALL FOR NOMINATIONS”

RTAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS, 2016 – 2017

Nominations for the Officers and Board of Directors of RTAM will be accepted up to and including Friday, April 8, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.

The term of office is one year. Nominees and nominators must be full members in good standing of RTAM. Any RTAM member may be nominated for a position of Director and one Officer position. An unsuccessful candidate for the Officer position has the right to stand for a Director position.

The positions open to election on May 11, 2016 are: OFFICERS: President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer DIRECTORS: up to 15 Directors may be elected.

Nomination Process: Nominations will be received by the Elections Committee up to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2016. Nomination(s) must be accompanied by a signed statement from the nominee to acknowledge their willingness to accept the nomination.

There will be an additional opportunity to nominate from those present in the AGM assembly. Any nomination from the floor will require the endorsement of ten (10) full RTAM members who are in attendance. There will be a minimum thirty (30) minute time frame from the time nominations open to when nominations close.

If you have any questions, please call: Elections Committee Chair, Wayne Hughes at 204-222-4011 or the RTAM office at 204-889-3660; toll free 1-888-393-8082.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD Do you know someone that is deserving of recognition from RTAM?

A Distinguished Service Award may be presented to an individual whose service to RTAM, in the opinion of the Board of Directors, has been extraordinary. The Award may be given posthumously. a. The nominee and the nominator must each be a full member of RTAM. b. The nomination shall be in writing and include a comprehensive description of the nominee’s involvement and service to RTAM. c. The Award shall consist of a framed certificate duly signed by the President. d. If possible, the Award shall be made at the pre-AGM Evening Reception held on May 10, 2016. RTAM shall assume all travel and accommodation expenses, incurred by the recipient to attend the Tuesday Evening Reception and the AGM, on the same basis and rates allotted to Chapter Presidents. e. The President shall receive the nominations.

Deadline: Nominee submissions must reach the RTAM office by Friday, April 1, 2016.

Mail nominee submissions to:

8 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2016

Marvin Krawec, RTAM President 206 – 1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5

2016 Annual General Meeting Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg, MB

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

ALL FULL RTAM MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED AND INVITED TO NOMINATE THEMSELVES OR BE NOMINATED, FOR A BOARD POSITION. We always need new ideas and enthusiasm!

DEADLINE: Friday, April 8, 2016 @ 3:00 p.m.

RTAM BOARD NOMINATION FORM: 2016-2017 (Please print) As a full RTAM member, I, ___________________________nominate the following full RTAM member: Nominee’s Name: _________________________________________________________________ Mailing Address: __________________________________________________________________ Nominee’s Phone:_________________________Email:____________________________________ for the position of: Officer (one position only) ❑ President or ❑ Vice-President or ❑ Secretary or ❑ Treasurer or ...and/or ❑ Director The signed permission of the nominee: ______________________________________________ Or, attach a signed statement of permission from the nominee.

Forward the completed Nomination Form to: RTAM – Nominations, 206 – 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2016.

Please note: Only FULL RTAM members in good standing may hold office, vote, endorse or sign nomination papers. ASSOCIATE RTAM members may not hold office, vote, endorse or sign nomination papers. There will be a meeting of the newly elected board from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm on May 12, 2016 at the RTAM office, 206-1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg.

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

2016 Annual General Meeting Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg, MB

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Volunteer to become aN RTAM Committee Member RTAM members-at-large are encouraged and invited to volunteer on one or more of the ten Standing Committees. Committee work gives YOU the opportunity to get to know more about RTAM and assist in making our Organization better. All Committees are chaired by a Board member and usually meet once a month, from September to June. On occasion, emergent circumstances may arise that necessitate additional meetings.

An Organization always needs diverse skills, creativity, innovation and change. Please consider volunteering to become an RTAM Committee Member by completing and submitting this form.

Following are the 10 Standing 1) AGM and Elections 2) Benefits 3) Bylaws and Policy 4) Communications:

a) Keep In Touch Newsletter (KIT) b) Public Relations c) RTAM Website

Committees: 5) Educational Advocacy (includes Scholarships/Awards) 6) Membership & Chapters 7) Pension 8) Political Advocacy 9) Travel 10) Wellness

Name: Phone:

Email:

Home Address: My interest(s) would be for the following committee(s): _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Please provide a short reflection of your experiences that relate to the committee work: _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________

Submit this form to the registration desk, by the conclusion of this AGM, or, e-mail your choice(s) NO LATER than Friday, May 27, 2016, to: rtam@mymts.net.

10 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM Benefits Update April 2016

T

he following information is being provided to RTAM members who are currently covered

by RTAM’s benefit plans as well as those who may be considering enrolling in the plans: • Open Enrolment for Extended Health Care Plan March 1 to June 1 • Advice on Comparing Travel Insurance Plans • Insurance Plan Renewals April 1, 2016 • 2016 Member Satisfaction Survey

OPEN ENROLMENT FOR EXTENDED HEALTH CARE PLAN MARCH 1 TO JUNE 1, 2016

The coverage under the RTAM Extended Health Care (EHC) Plan provides comprehensive services to meet your needs and make sure you’re financially prepared for any unforeseen costs.

If you are not currently participating in the EHC Plan you can apply without evidence of good health during the open enrolment period March 1 to June 1. There are two options available: a low cost Basic Plan and a more comprehensive Enhanced Plan. Please see the enclosed insert describing the EHC Plan Options available and the application process. After the open enrolment period, you may apply without evidence of good health within 60 days of losing coverage from a group plan.

ADVICE ON COMPARING TRAVEL INSURANCE PLANS

Today’s retirees are actively pursuing numerous interests and activities, of which travelling is a very popular choice. In addition to packing your toothbrush, you should also travel with comprehensive travel insurance while you are away from home. Be sure that you are getting adequate travel insurance coverage for any medical emergencies that you may incur while travelling out of country, province or territory of residence.

Know before you go! Before selecting travel insurance for your next trip, double-check to ensure that the appropriate activities and events are covered. The following checklist provides a guideline that will help you in your purchase decision, and help you understand what your policy may or may not cover.

• If you are taking multiple trips, does the policy allow for unlimited trips in a specified time period or are you required to purchase coverage for each trip you take throughout the year?

• Can you extend coverage while on a trip by calling your insurance company?

• Are there any age restrictions on the policy?

• Have you had a serious illness? Understand how the policy treats pre-existing conditions.

RTAM.MB.CA

n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS How long do you have to be stable without new symptoms, treatment or change in medication prior to your date of departure from your province or territory of residence for coverage to be in place?

• In the event of a serious illness or accident, will the policy allow for a family member to be flown to your bedside?

• Air Emergency Transportation or Evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility usually must be medically required and approved and arranged in advance.

• Travel Insurance plans only cover “Emergency” events, not routine treatment.

• Extreme activities may not be covered.

A common exclusion is participation in professional sports, scuba diving, motorized race or motorized speed contest, bungee jumping, parachuting, rock climbing, mountain climbing, hang-gliding or skydiving.

• Confirm if Trip Cancellation, Interruption & Baggage Loss is included in the policy.

• Familiarize yourself with the General Exclusions & Limitations in all policies as they apply to all policyholders.

Read your policy and understand how it applies to you. If you have questions about your specific situation, ask before you buy.

For more information on the RTAM Travel Insurance Plans or the Extended Health care Plans, please contact Johnson Inc. at 1-877-9892600, visit the website www.johnson.ca/rtam or

Meeting with Manitoba Liberal Party John Sushelnitsky

R

ana Bokhari, Leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party and her executive assistant, Stephanie Harris, met with RTM to hear our concerns, before the election.

12 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

email pbservicewest@johnson.ca.

INSURANCE PLAN RENEWALS APRIL 1, 2016

The RTAM Benefits Committee and the Plan Administrator, Johnson Inc. completed the annual renewal process for the insurance plans renewing on April 1, 2016. If you are currently covered by RTAM’s benefits plans, you will have received a renewal notification, a personalized benefit statement and a new Travel ID card (if you are covered for Premier Travel). Below is a summary of the changes.

EXTENDED HEALTH CARE (EHC) PLAN HIGHLIGHTS

There will be no premium increase to the EHC plan and we were able to incorporate benefit improvements to the Core and Enhanced Plan based on the 2014 Member Preference Survey: • Core EHC Plan: Vision Care is reimbursed to a maximum of $250 per 2 years (up from $200 per two years) • Enhanced EHC Plan: Vision Care is reimbursed to a maximum of $350 per 2 years (up from $200 per two years) Eldercare Select Services Pilot Project: The Eldercare Select Services Pilot Project will end on March 31, 2016. We wish to thank our Plan Administrator, Johnson Inc. for sponsoring the project for two years and First Health Care for delivering the services.

Members who are receiving ongoing services as at March 31, 2016 will have those unique services extended until they are completed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS RATE CHANGES EFFECTIVE APRIL 1:

All our plans are negotiated on an annual basis and we are working to keep premium rates as low as possible for the best value to our members. We have negotiated the following rates with the insurer effective April 1, 2016: Extended Health Care rates remain the same, with the benefit increases noted above.

Dental Care rates increase by 3.0%, due to annual increases in the provincial dental fee guide.

Premier Travel Base and Supplementary Plan rates increase by 9.5%, largely due to the high US exchange rate relative to the Canadian dollar, as well as increases in emergency medical costs.

Averaged over the last five years, travel premium increases have been modest at 3.9% per year.

Note: Only the Base Travel Plan will automatically renew. If you choose to travel longer than 62 days, please contact Johnson by phone or email to add extended Supplemental Travel insurance coverage to your plan.

For plan questions, please call our RTAM office at 204-889-3660 or toll-free at 1 (888)393-8082; or contact Johnson Inc. toll-free at 1-877-989-2600 or by email at pbservicewest@johnson.ca.

Complete plan details can be found on the website www.johnson.ca/rtam.

RTAM MEMBER 2016 SURVEY REGARDING BENEFITS

Your feedback is important. All RTAM Members are encouraged to complete this online survey regarding benefits, even if you do not participate in the RTAM Benefit Plan. If you provide your email address at the end of the survey, you will also be entered into draw for one of two (2) prizes worth $100 each.

RTAM’s Benefits Committee wants to hear from you, in preparation for the next plan renewal: • how the RTAM Voluntary Group Insurance Benefit Plan meets your current and future needs, • how it can be improved, and • how it can adapt to changes in the public health care environment.

This survey will be available for completion until June 1, 2016, and can be accessed at the URL: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/rtam-members For further questions and plan information, please call our RTAM office at 204-889-3660, or RTAM’s Plan Administrator Johnson Inc. toll-free at 1-877-989-2600, or visit the website www.johnson.ca.rtam and click on Frequently Asked Questions (Plan FAQ or Claim Submission FAQ). ¡

TRAF – Restricted Surplus

Rosalie Bornn

O

At the request of the Pension Committee, on the afternoon of February 17, TRAF CEO, Jeff Norton and plan actuary, Tim McGorman met with all interested and available RTAM Directors to share information enclosed in the DRAFT 2015 PAA Valuation Report.

It was noted that as a result of positive investment returns and low inflation rate, for the fourth time in the history of the Bill 45 directive, surplus funds were available to add to the Restricted Surplus Fund. The presenters also outlined four possible options for dealing with the eventual dispersal of the accumulated Restricted Surplus fund.

The RTAM organization will use the information from this meeting to move forward with developing an RTAM official stakeholder response on behalf of retired teaches to the eventual dispersal of the Restricted Surplus fund after the 10 year Bill 45 directive ends. ¡ RTAM.MB.CA

n 13

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Wellness Seminar April 26, 2016

RTAM and the Manitoba Teachers’ Society have collaborated in the presentation of the following Wellness Seminar

“MONEY MATTERS & MINDFULNESS” Date: ....................TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2016 Place: ....................McMaster House, 191 Harcourt at Portage Time: .....................9:30 a. m. - 2:30 p. m.

9:30 - 10:00...........Registration and Health Break PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Registration will be limited to 70 participants and will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis.

Program: 10:00 – 10:15 ................... Opening remarks 10:15 – 11:45.................... “MONEY MATTERS” – Why Financial Literacy is Connected to our Overall Wellness Presenter.............................. Brian Denysuik Our financial life impacts our overall wellness. We live in a complex financial world with social pressures pulling us in many directions. How do we stop this runaway train so we can focus on what we need to do financially to be comfortable and confident as we progress through our retirement?

12:00 – 1.00........................ Gourmet Lunch 1:00 – 2:15.......................... “MINDFULNESS” Dealing with Stress – Making Sense of Mindfulness Presenter.............................. Keith Macpherson In this workshop, Keith will guide you through the foundations of what it means to come into mind, body and soul alignment to cultivate a deeper practice of mindfulness on a daily basis. Discover what has been stopping you from living a mindful life and expect to come away with a new outlook on how you can truly convert stress and burn out into successful inner peace and balance.

2:15 -2:30............................ Closing Remarks RTAM appreciates the support received from the BALANCE PROGRAM of THE MANITOBA TEACHERS’ SOCIETY – www.mbteach.org/balance.

WELLNESS SEMINAR REGISTRATION FORM

Participant’s name: Address Postal Code:

City/Town Email:

Phone:

Please send $30.00 cheque payable to RTAM by April 21 to: Maureen Recksiedler, PO Box 744, Stonewall, MB R0C 2Z0 14 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Half-Day Mini Seminar WEDNESDAY March 16, 2016 PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS: Wills and Powers of Attorney Choosing the right person to manage your affairs. Preventing Elder Abuse.

Staying up to date. This session includes round table discussion.

Sharon Tod: B.A. LL.B. from St. Mary’s Law New location : RTAM Office, 206 – 1555 St. James Street Winnipeg Time : 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm Coffee and registration at 1:00 pm, $5.00 paid at the door Maximum registration of 30 people. Only first 30 will be registered to attend

WELLNESS SEMINAR REGISTRATION FORM

Participant’s name: Address Postal Code:

City/Town Email:

Phone:

Please email registration to Lydia Heshka, lheshka@shaw.ca OR phone 204 837 6290, before March 8, 2016 OR mail to 692 Vimy Road, R2Y 0T5

Half-Day Mini Seminar WEDNESDAY MARCH 30, 2016 REAL ESTATE TRANSITIONS: Options for down-sizing living spaces Real estate decisions, principal residence rules, family cottages, condos, life leases, rentals.

Legalities will be discussed. This session includes round table discussion.

Sharon Tod: B.A. LL.B. from St. Mary’s Law New location : RTAM Office, 206 – 1555 St. James Street Winnipeg Time : 1.30 pm – 3.30 pm Coffee and registration at 1:00 pm, $5.00 paid at the door Maximum registration of 30 people. Only first 30 will be registered to attend.

WELLNESS SEMINAR REGISTRATION FORM

Participant’s name: Address Postal Code:

City/Town Email:

Phone:

Please email registration to Lydia Heshka, lheshka@shaw.ca OR phone 204 837 6290, before March 23, 2016 OR mail to 692 Vimy Road, R2Y 0T5 RTAM.MB.CA

n 15

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Farewell to Carol

Marvin Krawec

L

ast December, at a Christmas celebration, we sent Carol Gillis packing. But before we did that, we bestowed upon her an honourary lifetime Membership to RTAM. The membership allows her to participate in RTAM events should she so desire.

I have to say nice things about her because she made the president look good. But, all jocularity aside, Carol was a stalwart at RTAM. Her demeanour, comportment, patience and diplomacy around the office were exemplary. It’s not often that one gets an opportunity to work with such an individual.

Everything had its place and that everything was in its place. This made our work somewhat easier.

Such is the duty of an administrative assistant.

We, the Board members, wish her many

Press Conference

F

ebruary 18, 2016, at Grace Church / Pembina Active Living 55 plus, a very successful press release was held. It was the launching of the SENIORS VOTE 2016 campaign. Representing RTAM: Marvin Krawec, President; John Sushelnitsky, Peggy Prendergast and Guy Hansen. Five seniors groups came together: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION of MANITOBA (RTAM) MANITOBA ASSOCIATIONS of SENIOR CENTRES (MASC) ACTIVE LIVING COALITION for OLDER ADULTS (ALCOA) TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS NETWORK for SENIORS (TONS) CANADIAN ASSOCIATION for RETIRED PERSONS (CARP - West Winnipeg)

16 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

enjoyable days gardening, planting flowers, feeding the birds, shopping and all other pleasurable pursuits. It is our hope that she will indulge in the privilege accorded her. ¡

Guy Hansen; Photos by John Sushelnitsky

Their common issues are Income Security, Social Isolation, Health, Affordable Housing and Transportation.

A questionnaire has been circulated to the major political parties. The responses will be published in KIT and the website.

Many of you will already be aware of this through the media; it was well covered. After the TV cameras shut down various reporters held their own interviews. We are attempting to put this video on our RTAM website.

The word is out, we are on the move.

For us, as Manitoba Seniors and members of RTAM, this is a proud moment.

Keep an eye on our website, you may be asked to help out. ¡

SENIORS VOTE

Making life better for all seniors in Manitoba will make life better for retired teachers

Here are issues that we are concerned about for the 2016 provincial election

CONTRIBUTING O R G A N I Z AT I O N S ▼

Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba

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Manitoba Association of Senior Centres

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The Active Living Coalition for Older Adults in Manitoba

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The Canadian Association of Retired Persons

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The Transportation Options Network for Seniors

P R E FA C E Preparing an RTAM position for the April 2015 provincial election, a series of five meetings took place between representatives of the Political Advocacy, Pensions and Public Relations Committees and the president, vice-president and past president of RTAM. A position was agreed upon and presented to the Board, which approved it. In addition to detailing the loss of purchasing power that has occurred for retired teachers, RTAM has joined a coalition of senior groups which address the larger issues which face all seniors in the province. There are two versions of the document Seniors Vote. The original document is a longer, in depth look at the issues, and was sent to all three political parties on February 1. A response to the questions has been requested and appears in this issue.

An edited version, which follows here, retains all the essential questions, data and facts but attempts to be a tool which members are more likely to carry into conversations with the candidates of all parties. If members wish to access the original document they may read it on the RTAM website or request a copy from the RTAM Office.

The other organizations joining RTAM are : Manitoba Association of Senior Centres, the Active Living Coalition for Older Adults in Manitoba, the Canadian Association of Retired Persons, and the Transportation Options Network for Seniors. The original document was written by Connie Newman and Peggy Prendergast, and the edited version by John Sushelnitsky with input from RTAM Board members.

Adam Dooley was retained to lead a media campaign in Winnipeg and several centres around the province. This alliance with other senior organizations is an historic first for RTAM and bodes well for future endeavors.

What is your government prepared to do about the loss of purchasing power for retired teachers?

Facts: Since 2000, retired teachers have experienced a loss of purchasing power of an average of one % per year. Teachers who retired in 2000 have lost approximately 15 %, which means that each dollar of their pension buys only 85 cents of goods and services.

This has been called “incremental poverty” and requires a fix. Each passing year further undermines the value of the pension that retired teachers paid for all their working years.

Facts: In 2007, Mr. Tim Sale, a former MLA, made a number of recommendations which in his words would “strengthen the future COLA capacity of the Pension Adjustment Account” (Sale Report, October 2007). In 2008, the government accepted a number of recommendations from the Sale report by enacting Bill 45. While Bill 45 gave a beneficial method of interest creditingfor the PAA, the other recommendations have resulted in a further decline of purchase power of 6% as well as withholding over $11 million dollars in a Restricted Surplus that will not be distributed until 2018.

If elected, will you support and fund an affordable housing strategy that will enable seniors to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible?

Facts: Most seniors have fixed incomes and as costs rise they are in danger of homelessness or forced to live in substandard or unaffordable housing. However, retrofitting homes with ramps, wider doorways as well as adding bars to bathrooms allows older adults to live comfortably and longer in their own homes. With a few simple additions for safety, couples can remain together as they age.

What steps would you take to improve the senior, intermediate and long term-care facilities for seniors once they must leave their homes?

Facts: Without these facilities, older adults occupy costly hospital acute beds. This is not an efficient use of hospital beds and it is not healthy for patients and the elderly. Expensive long term health care costs will be reduced.

Making life better for all seniors in Manitoba will make life better for retired teachers

If you are elected, would you support the Defined Benefit Pension Plan(DBPP) for all Manitobans?

Facts: Manitobans, like many other Canadians, are not saving adequately for their retirement. In addition, the trend away from DBPP has lessened the level of financial security for those who do have a pension plan in their workplace. In the private sector, only four out of ten employees are covered by a company pension plan. It is estimated that of those retirees who have a DBPP only 10 to 15% collect the GIS while, in comparison, 45 to 50% of those without the DBPP collect the GIS. The DBPP saves the government tax money and nationally that amounts to $2 to 3 billion annually. In addition, the DBPP beneficiaries paid some $14 to $16 billion in taxes.

If elected, how would you work to eliminate poverty among Manitoba seniors?

Facts: Poverty among Canadian seniors is increasing. There are approximately 50,000 seniors in Manitoba who receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) to assist in their survival.

Approximately 10,000 receive the Manitoba 55+ Supplementary Income Benefit. The 2000 Census indicated that 65% of single visible minority seniors were considered low income compared to 39% of single seniors who were not of visible minority.

These people live below the “poverty line” and cannot afford costly prescriptions or proper foods.

Without either of these, their long term health is at risk. Consequently, their health care costs will increase substantially.

If elected, will you support the improvement of the CPP?

Facts: The Canadian Pension Plan is a universal Defined Benefit Pension Plan which affects all Manitobans, as well as other Canadians. The level of financial support needs to be raised in the interest of seniors who are mainly on fixed incomes and are unable to cope with rising costs due to inflation.

Will you commit to addressing the affordability of ambulance transportation, oral health services, vision care and hearing aids for all Manitoban seniors?

Facts: We experience the world and our environment through our physical senses.

Hearing, vision and dental health are fundamental assets to a senior’s enjoyment of advancing years. Unfortunately, Manitoba has the highest rates in Canada for ambulance service, starting at more than $500 per trip. Our province has no assistance for seniors in purchasing hearing aids and the growing isolation of hearing loss seriously affects the well being of seniors so afflicted. The cost of dental work rises faster than the rate of inflation as anyone needing a filling can attest. Changes in vision occur faster as one ages and adjustments are costly but necessary.

What are your plans for addressing the ever increasing concerns about dementia?

Facts: Within 20 years, the number of Canadians living with dementia is expected to double. By 2038, there will be 34,000 (2.8%) of Manitoba’s population affected by dementia. We need a comprehensive approach that includes greater caregiver support, mandatory dementia care training for healthcare providers, and more funding for specialized home care and long-term care.

What increased funding would your government give to senior centres?

Senior centres provide a much needed social engagement to older adults

What steps would your government take to face the transportation challenges that senior citizens have in the rural areas of the province?

Facts: A lack of safe, reliable and affordable transportation leads to the isolation of many seniors. Losing one’s driver’s license is a traumatic change for those who have led independent lives. Then,afterward, there are few transportation options in rural areas when there is a need to meet medical appointments, shopping or social activities. The quality of life is dramatically changed when one is unable to get around.

Facts: 3 out of 10 older adults live alone. Senior centres provide a much needed social engagement/ participation to older adults, enhancing their quality of life, better health, longevity and a decrease in disability, depression and dementia. Senior Centres have a shoe string budget, minimal staff and many volunteers.

How would your government commit to providing opportunities for older adults to engage in regular physical activities that contribute to their functional ability for daily living?

Facts: Affordable and accessible programs help seniors reduce the incidence of falls and associated losses.

Supporting seniors so that they remain fit and healthy is a great cost benefit to the government. There needs to be cooperation across government departments and with nongovernment organizations so that seniors are regarded as a priority and not an afterthought.

Would your provincial government adhere to national standards for wait times, home care, prescription drugs and team based primary health care?

Would you support a National Pharmacare Program, including a bidding procedure for the purchase of drugs and the purchasing of drugs in bulk?

With the proposed new Canada Health Accord to take effect in 2017, would the Manitoba government ensure that the transfer payments go to the health areas it was intended?

Prepared by Connie Newman (MASC) and Peggy Prendergast (RTAM) Edited by John Sushelnitsky RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Answersto

SENIORS VOTE

LIBERAL PARTY

L

iberal Leader Rana Bokhari is very concerned about the ability of Manitobans to make ends meet, and that is especially concerning for seniors and those on a fixed income. To this end we are looking to tackle the problem head on. We will do a pilot project on Guaranteed Annual Income also known as Mincome from the pilot done in Dauphin in the 1970s.

We believe that offering every Manitoban a Mincome will mean they will have enough to live a healthy and productive life. If the results of this pilot show us what we believe they will we have the potential to not only save money in healthcare, justice, education, family services and other departments, but we will have a healthier society.

We have also promised a two year rent freeze on all apartment rentals in Manitoba. This is to take a pause and allow us to work with stakeholders to get a handle on rapidly increasing rents. We acknowledge that costs continue to rise, but when rent increases at more than double the rate of inflation we have a problem. Over the past several years rents have risen, on average, more than double the rate of inflation or the benchmarks under rent control. Rent control is broken and we need to fix it.

We are not opposed to discussions on improvements to CPP, but as you know, even CPP is limited to how much an individual pays into it. We prefer to explore the benefits of a Mincome that could replace virtually all government programs and simply provide a secure and predictable level of income to all Manitobans. We hope the federal government will support our pilot and consider Mincome on a national level.

On clean affordable housing we will continue the

practice of increasing the affordable housing stock, but ensuring people can afford to live where they are now is a more admirable goal. Seniors should not have to leave the neighbourhoods they are comfortable in. That is our focus, ensuring people can stay in their homes.

We share your concerns about seniors and all Manitobans access to vision, hearing and dental costs. Our focus is to find a means for all Manitobans to be able to afford the basics of food, shelter and healthcare. This is why we are committed to covering mental health services under medicare. By seriously looking at a Mincome or Guaranteed Annual Income we can tackle many issues associated with too little money. We will work with your group to find solutions to the cost of hearing aids, glasses and dental work.

Ambulance costs are too high, period. We will reduce these costs as has been done in other provinces. The idea that anyone chooses not to call an ambulance because they don’t feel they can afford it. That simply cannot happen in a modern society like ours.

In regard to homecare we feel this is one of the keys to ensuring people can stay in their homes longer and take pressure off the medical system. Investments in early intervention have proven to speed recovery and make it more likely that people will be able to remain independent longer. Rana Bokhari knows what many Manitobans and Canadians are going through when caring for loved ones at home. Her parents live with her and she is their advocate and primary supporter.

We have spent many sessions with those who advocate for team based health care and are certainly open to working with health care providers and others to examine

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

how this could improve both results and access.

On Dementia we need to ensure people suffering with this debilitating condition are enjoying the best quality of life possible. As we live longer the chance of dementia or other brain related illness continues to grow. We will work with experts to ensure we are able to accommodate the increased numbers of people living with dementia and work to find ways to reduce its instances.

We will abide by the 2017 health accord as long as our partners are keen to keep in place as it is, but will be happy to discuss it with Ottawa to ensure we are getting the most out of the accord and ensure flexibility to Manitoba-specific areas.

We are encouraged the federal government is engaged on a national pharmacare plan and hope we are able to work together as a country and provinces to see the best results for our citizens.

The cost of drugs must come down if we are able to manage health care into the future, but that said we must also promote lifestyles that decrease our dependence on drugs.

Regarding transportation we are already taking a proactive approach to increasing the availability of transportation by allowing ride-sharing services like Uber to enter the province. This will be especially important to communities that don’t have taxi service now as this will create an industry that responds to the needs of the population with part-time drivers looking to make a little extra money. Aside from that we do need to ensure seniors are able to access transportation especially accessible transportation and will continue to fund these services and look for ways to enhance them.

We are very interested in the social well-being of our seniors and are looking for ways to get them more engaged in life in Manitoba. We are interested in the concept of regional senior’s centres and the possibility of childcare centres attached to seniors centres to create greater engagement for seniors. This has been wildly successful in other jurisdictions in North America. We will look for other ways to engage our seniors socially and are fully aware of the need for a meaningful existence.

We must, as a society, become more active from the start of our lives to the end. We are committed to working with young Manitobans to increase their awareness and interest in physical activity and must work with our seniors to get them up and active as much as possible. We know in some cases mental health issues are at play and that is why we will cover psychologists under medicare. We as Liberals believe there is need to explore the benefits of Mincome again to see if providing a guaranteed income will create healthier society. How we engage our seniors is sometimes a complex formula so with that in mind we will be good listeners. We know one size does not fit all and will work with advocates to ensure all ideas are being listened to and heard.

Mike Brown Director of Communications Manitoba Liberal Party 204.558.1313 media@manitobaliberals.ca

NEW DEMOCRATIC PARTY

T

hank you for your letter and policy document outlining six key policy issues involving seniors.

Manitoba seniors helped build this province, and deserve a government that protects the services they count on for them, their kids and their grandkids. That’s why the Manitoba NDP is committed to protecting these essential services like hospitals, home care, while making sure life stays affordable.

26 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

Retirement Income Security Pensions are an important part of a sustainable retirement. We remain committed to ensuring Manitobans have financial security in their retirement years, and that seniors do not suffer the indignity of living in poverty after a lifetime of hard work.

The key to this security is a well-funded and portable pension plan, with defined benefit pensions providing

the most predictable supports. The best way of ensuring this security is through modest increases to the Canada Pension Plan. We remain committed to working with other provinces to convince the federal government to make this valuable change.

Manitoba has the 2nd highest percentage of workers covered by registered pension plans in the country at nearly 43%, according to Statistics Canada. The number of workers covered by pensions is also rising.

Between 2013 and 2014, this number increased by over 1,000 people. Since 2000, we have directed over $4.5 Billion to pension obligations.

In 2010, we adopted the most comprehensive overhaul to private sector pensions in 35 years with the proclamation of the Pensions Benefits Act. These changes meant we ensured workers are entitled to pension benefits they receive immediately after they begin work rather than waiting up to two years. We increased benefits for workers who stay in their jobs past the age of 65. Pensions now offer flexible benefits such as early retirement and cost-of-living adjustments, and have new rules protecting the rights of spouses and common-law partners to benefits.

In the 1990s, the Conservatives sat by and did nothing to invest in teachers’ pensions. The Manitoba NDP government has put more money into the Teachers Retirement Annuity Fund to ensure that teachers can have a safe, secure retirement. Since 1999, we’ve contributed over $2 billion directly into to TRAF, including $177 million this year. We also created the $1.5 billion Province of Manitoba Trust Account to keep teacher’s pensions stable and we’ve matched teacher pension contributions dollar for dollar since 2000.

Affordable Housing Your Manitoba NDP government has working hard to make sure seniors have access to safe, affordable homes. That’s why we’re investing now to build additional social and affordable housing for Manitobans, including our seniors. We’ve already invested in more than 15,500 homes for seniors across the province. We even developed the safe suite program for older adults leaving abusive relationships.

Our long-term housing strategy includes $200 million

to build hundreds of more Personal Care Home beds.

We’re committed to supporting seniors live in their homes for as long as they want. But it can be a cost not every senior can afford. That’s why in 2015 we doubled the Seniors’ School Tax Rebate. Seniors who live and own their home can save up to $1,570 every year on their property taxes. Nearly 24,000 seniors will be eligible to no longer pay school taxes.

We also want to make it easier for Manitobans caring for their loved ones to do so, without having to worry about the cost. Your NDP government has boosted the Primary Caregiver Tax Credit, which now helps more than 18,000 Manitobans a year. That means individuals caring for their loved ones are able to receive up to $4,200 a year. This past fall, we also introduced important legislation for caregivers, which will extend compassionate care leave, and 2011 we created the Caregiver Advisory Council.

For some seniors, the right choice is living with family members, but it can be a big financial cost renovating a home so it’s the right fit for seniors. As a government, we introduced financial supports to help out families renovating their homes for their loved ones. Families can now claim up to $35,000 for an addition or renovation of a secondary suite.

We also introduced the Safety Aid program to help prevent slips and falls at home, while also keeping seniors safe. Safety Aid provides and installs nonslip mats and home adaptation devices to help prevent injuries. It will also install home security systems for low income seniors to help deter home invasions.

Health Care The NDP is the party of health care, and we will continue to make health a key priority as we move Manitoba forward for hard working families and seniors. Your Manitoba NDP believes in public, universal, high quality health care for everyone, and our seniors deserve to age with dignity. We will be working with all provinces and the new federal government towards a renewed national health accord that provides for predictable funding increases. This will support our NDP government’s ongoing and continued efforts to provide resources to train, recruit and retain doctors, nurses and other health professionals, as well RTAM.MB.CA n 27

as address wait times in key areas.

Unfortunately, not all parties value the essential services that seniors rely on. Brian Pallister and his Conservatives support American-style, two-tier, privatefor-profit health care where his wealthy friends can buy their way to the front of the line for tests and procedures. Brian Pallister has spent his whole career privatizing services Manitobans depend on. He tried to sell homecare and introduced user fees.

We’ve worked with Liberals on progressive work in health care in the past, but the provincial Liberals’ pledge to give massive corporate giveaways to banks and large corporations will mean cuts to services such as health care and seniors care. We’ve seen this from Liberals before – in Ontario patients are being charged hundreds or even thousands of dollars for private home care.

We know there is more to do. Your NDP government is focused on investing now, not going back to the devastating Conservative health care cuts, when they fired 1,000 nurses, drove away doctors, cut 15 medical school spaces, and cancelled investments on hospital construction, renovation and expansion.

Ancillary health (oral, vision, hearing) We are committed to working with Seniors to ensure they are receiving the supports that they need. In fact, our Department of Health is currently reviewing the programs that provide assistance to seniors for hearing aids and vision care, among others, to determine how to modernize them, support better administration of the programs, and make sure that benefits are directed where they are needed most.

National standards Manitoba is already committed to meeting national benchmarks in many areas like wait times, and regularly reports the results on our website.

In other areas, we have set our own ambitious targets – for example the Family Doctor for All and our Home Care Leadership Team, chaired by Reg Toews, will be making recommendations to help us improve our standards for home care services across the province.

28 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

Home care A strong home care program helps loved ones remain at home as long as possible, which is what Manitoba families want.

We’re proud that it was an NDP government that established home care in Manitoba 40 years ago – the 1st universal home care program in Canada – which quickly became a model for other provinces.

Manitoba’s home care is widely regarded as one of the best in all of North America, and to ensure it remains accessible to all Manitobans, we will continue to reject calls to base home care on one’s ability to pay.

We’ve more than doubled funding for home care, from $149 million to over $330 million. We’ve also hired doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, occupational and physical therapists, speech language pathologists and respiratory therapists to create hospital home teams that will make home visits.

Dementia For some seniors, living staying in their homes isn’t the right option. That’s why we’re supporting Riverview Health Centre with creating an Alzheimer’s unit to help those in need. We also recently announced expanded support for Actionmargeurite, to ensure more beds for seniors struggling with complex needs, including dementia.

These additional supports to Actionmargeurite will mean more access to specialized treatment for those suffering from dementia, while ensuring seniors who need intensive, long term care have access to it.

Ambulance affordability We know that for some people, ambulance fees can be a real financial burden. That’s why the government invests in the ambulance programs across the province.

But we know there is more to do. We are currently in the process of seeing how ambulance fees can be made more equitable across the province, as well as exploring alternatives where appropriate. For example, the government has supported the cancer society transport program which has been a very successful alternative for people to attend Cancer Care appointments. We don’t want to see Manitobans making choices between their health and their pocketbook.

National pharmacare We are also committed to a National Pharmacare program. It’s the right program for Canadians and the right program to support seniors struggling with the cost of prescription drugs. While we again called on the federal government to implement a National Pharmacare program this January, we’re not waiting.

We’re expanding prescription drug coverage under Manitoba’s Pharmacare program.

As one of the few provinces with a truly universal Pharmacare program, we want to see substantial federal support so we can continue to improve services.

One of the aspects of the Manitoba Pharmacare program that has been very successful is the ability of people to spread their deductible payments out through the year on their Manitoba Hydro bills. We are committed to finding ways to provide a better, cheaper plan for Manitobans through initiatives like our generic drugs policy which has saved millions and our Home Cancer Drug program – which is only available in Manitoba – to relieve the financial burden of illness.

Transportation Staying mobile is essential to the lives of seniors. Your Manitoba NDP are committed to ensuring seniors have affordable access to transportation when they need it.

That’s why we’re continuing to support Handi-Transit to help Manitobans with limited mobility get where they need.

We support the Mobility Disadvantaged Transportation Program, which serves more than 60 communities across Manitoba. Through this program, communities are eligible for start-up grants to establish handi-transit services, more than 1/3 of their annual operating costs covered by the province, and regional incentive grant funding for communities that deliver handi-transit services to a large region.

We’ve also invested more than $5 million to replace Handi-Transit vehicles in rural Manitoba. We also contribute 50% of the costs of Winnipeg’s transit system, including Handi-Transit.

Your NDP has worked closely with the City of Winnipeg to ensure seniors continue to have safe, affordable access to the transit system. We’ve committed to future phases of Rapid Transit and

increased ongoing funding to Winnipeg Transit by more than $1.5 million to help keep fares low and to make sure the bus stays an affordable and accessible way to get around.

We’ve also heard how hard it can be for northern and rural seniors to access affordable options for transportation, which is why we announced a new study and public consultations to determine the ways to restore northern and rural bus services.

Healthy Aging, Quality of Life, and Social Engagement The Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat (SHAS) plays such an important role in ensuring seniors and the issues they face are heard loud and clear.

SHAS is where Manitoba seniors and their loved ones, caregivers, and other organizations can get the information they need to stay healthy, independent and respected. SHAS works closely with Healthy Living and Seniors, but also with community groups and businesses across the province to make sure seniors are getting the care and support they need.

The Manitoba Council on Aging also plays an integral part in ensuring seniors have the quality of life they deserve. The Council actively consults with seniors and advises the Minister on policies and programs effecting seniors, and also plays a key role in raising awareness and understanding on the process of aging.

Staying active and social is an important part of aging. That’s why we’ve increased our support for Seniors Centres with a 5% increase across the board.

We’re also proud to partner with the Active Living Coalition for Older Adults to support the 55+ games.

We also proud to support important local organizations across the province, like Aboriginal Senior Centres, Age and Opportunity support services, Creative Retirement programs, the Franco-Manitoban Association, the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres, the Centre on Aging, the University of Manitoba Transportation Network for Seniors, and Good Neighbours Active Living Centre.

While we’ve been working hard to address what matters most to seniors, we know there is always more to do. We’d be happy to meet with your organization to better address key issues you’ve raised and discuss the upcoming provincial election.

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

Again, thank you for your letter and your important concerns facing seniors today. We’re committed to making sure seniors have access to the services they need, when they need them. We’re on the side of seniors.

PROGRESSIVE CONSERVATIVE PARTY PC reply not received by publication date. All replies will be posted on the website at rtam.mb.ca

Matt Austman, Communications OBO Leader Greg Selinger Manitoba NDP

McNally Robinson Booksellers & The Korea Times present

Michael Czuboka: Manifest Destiny A novel about the loves and adventures of Peter Farley, A Canadian in the Korean War

“M

anifest Destiny is a novel about the Korean War. It is a fast-moving story with a series of subplots. This is not your usual run-of-the-mill war story.

It has combat and much more.

The main character’s experiences begin in a small prairie town, take him to Korea and Japan, and ultimately to the torments of posttraumatic stress disorder.

Recurring in the narrative is a cliff-hanger of a spy story and other diversions, all of which augment the main plot.

I read the book in one setting, which speaks for itself. Two points, in particular, appealed to me. One was the very descriptive accounts of Peter Farley’s struggle with PTSD. The other was the Epilogue. Too often a book ends up with the subsequent fate of the characters up in the air. Czuboka provides a summary of the fate and fortune of his principal characters. This is an engaging novel and I recommend it highly to veterans and non-veterans alike.” – REVIEW

BY ESPRIT DE CORPS magazine columnist Les Peate, a published Korean War author

30 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

“[Manifest Destiny] is absolutely superb and a wonderfully entertaining book. I honestly could not put it down and was led into the next chapter with anticipation and eager to know what was next with Peter Farley and his fellow soldiers, and indeed the other characters. I particularly liked the way in which you wove the communist infiltrator into the story, and the ‘pursuit of women’ by Farley. It all adds up to a wonderful, intriguing and very interesting novel. You brought out the terrific human aspects of war so very well – and of course the usual bureaucratic bungling at higher headquarters!” - Lieutenant General Ray Crabbe, Retired Deputy Chief of Defence Staff ¡

Not the End, but a New Beginning David Gibson

A

fter 25 years of teaching, I decided last June that it was my time to retire, or as I like to call it “Repurpose.” As I look back, I am reminded of the highs and lows of my teaching career and realize that the high moments greatly outnumbered the low moments. I was so very fortunate to have stumbled upon the amazing opportunity to do foreign travel with my students. Even though I retired last June, I am taking one last trip, my 24th, with my students

this spring break. My students and I have been so fortunate to have travelled all over Europe as well as Costa Rica, Egypt and Kenya. I have had the privilege to watch the faces of my students as they see the Eiffel Tower in Paris for the first time or the Coliseum in Rome, as they ride a camel around the Great Pyramids of Egypt or help build a school in Kenya. Travel changes lives and it certainly did with my students.

It changed mine as well. I’ll miss those opportunities.

However, since I’m “Repurposing,” I’ve decided to continue to travel. Parents of students and former colleagues have been asking for years when was it going to be their turn to do one of these trips? As a result of these requests, I’m taking my first group of adults on a tour this June to Thailand

and Cambodia. Slower paced, no curfews, wine with dinner, how fun! I’m so looking forward to showing the world to another generation!

If other retired teachers and their families and friends might wish to join our adventurous team, our next trip leaves on February 7, 2017, to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. I’d love to share with you this part of the world. If you might be interested, do not hesitate to send me an email me at tanman.gibson@icloud .com or go on line to see the trip at davidgibsonaustralia.grouptoursite.ca. ¡

MTS 100th Anniversary John Sushelnitsky

O

n January 21, Jamie Bedford, VicePresident of the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, attended the RTAM Board meeting to give details of the upcoming celebration in 2017 of the 100th anniversary of the teacher organization.

RTAM has been invited to be a part of that celebration and Beth Smith, Dauphin, is the RTAM representative. ¡ RTAM.MB.CA n 31

Retired Women Teachers’ Association Heather Emberley

Mary-Anne Slegers

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s 2015 wrapped up, The Retired Women Teachers’ Association, at their December luncheon, were entertained by the Sassy Cats. Something to sing about for 2016 is RWTA’s 65th anniversary. The robust membership ranges from the newly retired to two members who are 102 years of age!

If you would like to join RWTA (membership, a mere $8.00 a year) in celebrating not only this anniversary year but the joys of teaching, please contact Cecile Allaire-Skene, President Elect at (204) 256-6176 or caskene@mymts.net ¡

RTAM Administrative Assistant

ary-Anne started with RTAM in late November 2015 providing administrative support, primarily with the accounting functions of the organization on a part time basis. She took an early retirement from a varied career with the provincial government, mostly in the areas of education administration and education finance. Mary-Anne is encouraged by the many different activities and activism initiatives in support of retired teachers that emanate from RTAM. She is looking forward to working at RTAM and appreciates the lifestyle opportunities that go along with part-time employment. ¡

IN MEMORIAM

LIFE MEMBERS

OCTOBER, 2015

NOVEMBER, 2015

Albert D. Brady, Winnipeg Barbara Linda Drouin, Winnipeg Anna B. Firman, Winnipeg Olga Hanchar, Calgary, AB Helen Letkemann, Winkler Beatrice M. MacKenzie, Winnipeg J. Elizabeth Ruby, Winnipeg Beach Irvin Sera, Winnipeg Ellen E. Wherrett, Winnipeg

Alfred J. Yanuszewski, Kenora, ON

NOVEMBER, 2015

Jane Bosace, Winnipeg Ruth Hallonquist, Winnipeg Linda Margaret Kohut, Winnipeg Ann O. Nazeravich, Winnipeg Deirdre Prabha Nancoo, Winnipeg Kenneth John Stobbe, Dauphin Lawrence P. Suchar, Oakbank Leona J. Tomchuk, Winnipeg Alice Winia, High River, AB M. Frances Winters, Okotoks, AB 32 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

DECEMBER, 2015

John Martens, Carman Rosalia J. Martin, Campbell River, BC Hjordis Overgaard, Winnipeg JANUARY, 2016

A.Mary Bancroft, Winnipeg Irene Bauman, Brandon William C. Davison, Brandon Gloria H. Ferguson, Edmonton, AB Betty M. Ford, Winnipeg Lena Lumb, Brandon Margaret Soloway, Nanaimo, BC

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM Wellness Half-day Mini Seminar, January 22, 2016

Winter Driving Skills Lydia Heshka, Wellness Committee Member

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inter in Manitoba is a reality. Winter driving is a challenge, which requires seven times the skill level of summer driving.

The afternoon of January 22nd saw a boardroom full of retired teachers learning how to be better drivers. Winter Driving Skills, presented

by Bill Ward, taught us numerous skills. We learned such things as, how to hold the steering wheel (8 pm and 4 pm, not 9 pm and 3 pm), that the car warms up more efficiently if it is in neutral, and that looking through the upper quarter of the windshield, allows the driver to see further ahead, and plan/act accordingly.

In addition, we were each given “The Extreme Weather Conditions Driving Manual,” which provided much more information. There was emphasis on the importance of snow tires. We learned that a car’s footprint, the surface area

touching the road when we hit snow, slush or black ice, is smaller than a shoe footprint! Check for both the snow and mountain symbols, and be sure that all tires are the same brand. To quote from Bill’s manual: • The winter tire must be mounted on all wheel positions.

• It must be the same tread pattern, model and make in all locations. This is necessary so that the handling characteristics of the vehicle remain the same as in the summer.

One unfortunate fact that we learned is that we needn’t worry about self-driven cars in Manitoba, because the technology requires clean, clear white lines on the roads! Not in Manitoba. Not during winter! ¡

Political Advocacy

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n January 13, 2016, Wayne Ewasko Education critic of the Progressive Conservative Party, and Shannon Martin, MLA from Morris, met with members of the RTAM John Sushelnitsky Board to discuss what Political Advocacy “RTAM wants.” RTAM was represented by (left to right) Guy Hansen (Public Relations), Wayne Hughes (past president), Shannnon Martin, Wayne Ewasko, Marvin Krawec (President), Peggy Prendergast (Pensions) and John Sushelnitsky

(Political Advocacy). Ralph Cibula (Political Advocacy) and Rosalie Bornn (Vice-President) participated by teleconferencing. ¡

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

Pre-Retirement Seminars

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hese Pre-Retirement Seminars are brought to you by RTAM - the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba.

Retirement is a time of transitions. Throughout your career you belonged to the Manitoba Teachers’ Society (MTS), but upon retirement

Beth Smith

you are no longer a member. The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) exists to serve and advocate for the needs of retired teachers. We invite you to join the growing number of RTAM members and enjoy the benefits of belonging.

BRANDON Photos by Judy Olmstead

Ray Sitter

Shannon Patershuk

WINNIPEG

On February 20, 2016, RTAM hosted a preretirement seminar for 70 Winnipeg and area working teachers who are contemplating retirement.

We received such an overwhelming response that we had to move from the RTAM boardroom to the Holiday Inn Airport West. Three presenters were showcased: • Wayne Hughes - Past President of RTAM who spoke about “Pension Issues.”

• Shannon Patershuk - Johnson Inc. (Edmonton) who spoke on “An Overview of RTAM’s Voluntary Group Benefit Plans.”

• Peggy Prendergast - Member of Pension Committee, Chair of Wellness Committee and Chair of Educational Advocacy Committee, whose topic was “More Than Money - About Planning for a ‘LIFE’ in Retirement.”

We received very positive comments and several suggestions that we hope to incorporate into future Pre-Retirement Seminars.

The cookies were very good! ¡ 34 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

At the Brandon seminar on January 23, Judy Olmstead welcomed the pre-retirees and introduced the speakers.

Shannon Patershuk, from Johnson’s Edmonton office, presented information on RTAM’s Voluntary Group Benefit Plans. Ray Sitter presented information on Finances in Retirement and Pat Bowslaugh presented information on Lifestyle.

Those in attendance enjoyed coffee and refreshments. Draws for door prizes were made to conclude the afternoon.

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM – Calgary & Area Chapter Penny Hogan; Photo by Lillian Kozak

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he RTAM Calgary and Area Chapter December 2015 Luncheon, held on December 3, 2015, was attended by twelve former Manitobans. Our guest speaker was Mr. Wayne McLachlan, Chief Instructor with Alberta Motor Association. His informative presentation, complete with handouts, on the topic of “Mature Drivers” was most informative.

We are always happy to welcome a new face to our Chapter, and this luncheon was no exception.

Joy Penner taught at Virden Collegiate and later at Red River College (Steinbach branch), until she and her husband relocated to Calgary in 2007.

The RTAM Calgary Chapter has been meeting in May, September and December, but we have decided to add a fourth meeting date. This has been tentatively scheduled for March 10, 2016.

Standing Left to Right: Ed Masters, Joy Penner, George Friesen, Jerelyn Orr, Neil Theissen, Leah Toews-Friesen, Linda Masters, Gary Thrush, Walter Krochak, Dennis Kozak; Seated Left to Right: Jan Campbell, Penny Hogan, Lillian Kozak

If you are a former Manitoban, now retired in Calgary and Area, please consider joining us.

Contact Dennis Kozak 1-587-891-7114 or kozak3@shaw.ca for information. ¡

RTAM – Okanagan Chapter Nancy Kostiuk

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he RTAM–Okanagan Chapter Christmas luncheon on Tuesday, December 8, 2015, was well-attended by 28 members and friends.

One new member was welcomed. The setting, view and decor of the Sunset Ranch Golf club lent a festive air as everyone mingled and chatted.

Following a delicious meal, there was a lively regifting exchange where Lorne Lisik managed to guide the enthusiasm to a successful conclusion.

It is noted that someone kept a sharp eye out for Garry Little’s contribution to the gift exchange, which was a lovely hand-turned wooden bowl, a real work of art!

Thank you to RTAM for the Chapter Initiative Grant which is much appreciated as we continue to spread the news out here in the Okanagan. ¡

Louise and Gary Adams with Lorne Lisik.

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Archiving for MTS Submitted by Manitoba Teachers’ Society

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ot many people can say that their job feels like a little bit of Christmas when a new pile of work hits their desk. As the archivist for the Manitoba Teachers’ Society, Mireille Theriault says that feeling of anticipation does come close though whenever someone sends over a donation for the collection.

“That first peek inside a box I’ve been waiting for is a real treat. I’ve got my gloves on and can’t wait to start sorting through it all. What I would consider a real gem is an actual teachers’ contract from the 1920’s or 30’s, a notice of a local meeting to members or official correspondence from the federation’s head office. And of course photographs of teachers.

Those are always a great find,” she says.

Since first starting to publicize MTS’s search for archival materials, Theriault has received about a half-dozen phone calls that have culminated in a donation of either photographs, back issues of the Manitoba Teacher or personal memorabilia from teaching days. A few presidents of teachers’ associations have also come forward with collections of their meeting minutes, newsletters and correspondence.

“I hope to receive more over the next year or so. I just know there is a lot out there about the Manitoba Teachers’ Society and we want to bring as much of it home as possible in time for the 100th Anniversary in 2019.”

This approaching milestone was the impetus in establishing an official archive for the Manitoba Teachers’ Society in the fall of 2013. “Education

36 n RTAM KIT Spring 2016

is an integral part of any culture and the MTS has played a huge part not only the lives of teachers and students but in how our educational policies and institutions have developed,” says Theriault.

“The provincial executive along with former General Secretary Ken Pearce recognized that, aside from preparing for the anniversary, it was high time we properly organized the information we had in our possession.”

Over the years some of the Society’s historical materials have been destroyed by flood but thankfully, due to an earlier donation by the MTS to the Provincial Archives of Manitoba the earliest original records from the Manitoba Teachers’ Federation are safe.

The MTS facilities can’t hope to match the exacting standards of the Manitoba Archives, but the society did work with a professional archivist who evaluated the collection on hand in addition to providing technical expertise and training. As the archivist on staff, Theriault carries on the work of processing documents in addition to providing research support and outreach services to ensure access to those records. A public internet portal to the MTS archives will be available in the next few years. “We want people to learn what it was like to be a teacher in Manitoba through the years and to see the difference the MTS has made in our province. It will also be a lovely resource to possibly find some references to family members involved in the teaching profession.”

With nearly 300 boxes and as many more yet to be sorted and added to the database, you wouldn’t think she would care to keep looking for more but Theriault is adamant about filling in gaps of the collection that offer a historical context of the teaching profession. If you have questions about making a donation or what types of records are available for research so far, please contact Mireille Theriault, Digital Archive Assistant at 204-837-4666 ext 354 or email mtheriault@mbteach.org ¡

A Great Reunion

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hen one looks at the calendar and one does the math, suddenly 55 years is a long time! For those of us who had been together in the Brandon College Teacher Training Class of 1960, we decided that another reunion was in order. We were able to fast track a little bit because Marjorie (Hoy) Wildeboer had researched every single name of our original group of the almost 100 students registered that year. Only two people were completely elusive to her search but with help from Verna (Waytowich) Sparks, letters were sent out to every surviving classmate and we had celebrated at fifty years. This time we had nineteen from the original three classes attend an afternoon and evening event at Shady Lane Tea Room where reminiscing preceeded a fabulous meal.

While we paid respects to the 27 people who were reported to have passed away we also launched

Pat Bowslaugh

into memories of items of the past. We recalled hectographs, gestetners, workbooks, ink wells, shiny chalk boards from which students copied notes as well as Dick and Jane, boarding places and the STRAP. Each one related a prominent incident of their past and even spouses contributed their reflections from tales brought home.

We acknowledge with great appreciation the support of Brandon University Alumni Department in this venture and would encourage all alumni to consider a reunion. Memories are treasures and those present at 55 years heavily requested another event in TWO years.

Please note that our group is part of an upcoming project planned for the Education Building in remembrance of our Dean, Dr.W.W. McCutcheon.

Anyone wishing to participate is welcome to contact Carla Eisler at Brandon University Alumni Office for wonderful support. ¡

The Editorial Committee of RTAM has decided to involve readers by holding a photography contest. Here’s how to enter: • Photo, in colour, must have been taken by a RTAM member • Size: no smaller than 5” x 7” and no larger than 8” x 12”, mounted on material no thinner than a file folder • Categories: a) Canadian sunset, b) snow/frost on a fence or trees • Entries to be judged by qualified photographers.

Prizes: first, $25.00, second, $15.00, in each category • Photos must be received by April 29, 2016 at the RTAM office.

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CLASSIFIEDS 65th Annual Reunion

Normal School Class of 1955 - 56

A Day at The Forks

60th Anniversary June 11, 2016, Winnipeg, MB For more information contact: E-mail:normalschool56@mymts.net or write 60th Reunion 330 Montrose Street, Winnipeg MB R3M 3M8 Please send your address, e-mail and information on other class members. More information will be mailed out in Fall 2015

Manitoba Teachers’ College Class of 58-59

Changing Roles of Women During the 1st World War

of the 1950 - 1951 Normal School Class June 6, 2016, Viscount Gort Hotel 1670 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB 11:30 - 2:30 Contact: P. Challis

June 2, 2016

The Reunion Committee has arranged an opportunity for us to gather once again to meet, chat and reminisce with colleagues on this fifty–seventh anniversary of our year at MTC. We have chosen The Forks as our venue. At this historic merger of the Assiniboine and the Red River we have places to eat, an opportunity to visit the beautiful Museum of Human Rights situated close by and to walk the paths or visit the shops of this iconic Winnipeg location.

The committee plans to contact members by letter with the details by April 1, 2016. If you do not receive a letter contact Bert Suss at blsuss@gmail.com. 204-326-9470.

Step back into the past where you will see a Living History of Costumed performers provide a hands on experience at the 1914 Ralph Connor House located at 54 West Gate Tours available September through June the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Call the office at 204-954-7880 or email at uwc@mymts.net for further information.

Power of Print Series Books I Have Known and Loved 6 Tuesday mornings: April 5 - May 10, 2016 9:30-11:30 am (coffee & tea available at 9:15 am) Registration opens February . 29 Fee $75 Call Maggi at 204.954.7880 or email uwc@mymts.net for further informaion. Fee should accompany registration.

Normal School Graduates of 1951-52

CALLING ALL DND OVERSEAS TEACHERS 1954 to 1992

Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY WITH HISTORIC SEVEN OAKS HOUSE

64th Anniversary to be celebrated June 10, 1916 Victoria Inn, Winnipeg, MB If any grad has NOT received the information letter to register, please contact 204 773 2578, Barbara Cochrane. Box 969, Russell, Manitoba R0J 1W6 OR email ShirleHogue@hotmail.com

12th Annual Reunion Viscount Gort Hotel, 670 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB. Thursday, July 14, 2016 / 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registration: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.

For further information, contact: Edith Alexiuk, Registrar: 204-256-6484

The University Women’s Club and Friends of Ralph Connor House

Invite you to their annual Signature Spring Luncheon Saturday, April 30, 2016 / 11:15 a.m. – 3 p.m.

St. Charles Country Club $75 – Tickets available at 54 West Gate / 204-954-7880 Fabulous Raffle Table (25 tickets for $20), Silent Auction of unique items, door prizes.

Served meal with complementary glass of wine Guest Speaker – Ovide Mercredi will talk about his involvement in the rights of worldwide Indigenous Peoples

The final national DND overseas teachers reunion will be held in Trenton, Ontario Sept 2-5 2016. For further information, registration forms etc., please go to facebook DND schoolies/the order of the stammtisch or contact Stu Colt at stucolt@cogeco.ca

Seven Oaks House Museum is seeking individuals to serve as volunteer board members. Seven Oaks House is the historic home of Winnipeg’s renowned Inkster family, and is today a Provincial Heritage Site. This architectural gem was built in 1853, and is located on the grounds of a beautifully treed park at 50 Mac Street in West Kildonan.

The large home included a store and post office, and the museum preserves a picture of life during the Red River Settlement era. For information on becoming a board member, please call Neil at 204-470-9208 or email sohmuseum@gmail.com.

Rotary Career Symposium

Volunteers are needed to help in various areas at the Rotary Career Symposium, Monday,evening May 1, Tuesday, May 2 and Wednesday, May 3.

The Symposum will be taking place at the Winnipeg Convention Centre in Winnipeg. Please consider giving some of your time for the youth of today. For further information contact Linda Thomas 204-284-4872

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