A Great Reunion

Pat Bowslaugh

When 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 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.