KIT Magazine - Spring 2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 30 | No. 4 | Spring 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

You are invited to attend the

Annual General Meeting 2019

of the

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA Clarion Hotel & Suites 3031 Victoria Ave., Brandon, MB

Tuesday, May 7, 2019 PRE-AGM ACTIVITIES

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Benefits at a Glance Presentation by Johnson Inc. 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Evening Reception / Distinguished Service Award, Food, Cash Bar / Hosted by the Westman Retired Educators’ Association

Wednesday, May 8, 2019 AGM

9:00 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

Noon 1:00 p.m.

4:00 p.m.

Opening TRAF Presentation Meeting Session Buffet Lunch Meeting Session Closing

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 30 No. 4 • Spring, 2019

Published by

RWTA Chapter

CONTENTS President’s Message........................................................................... 3 2019 Annual General Meeting......................................................... 5-9 Bylaws and Policy............................................................................. 11 Petition for Pension Security.............................................................. 13 We’re Making Some Exciting Changes To Your RTAM Travel Policy..... 14 “Be informed: Read the Fine Print!”................................................. 16 Political Advocacy............................................................................. 17 Workshops....................................................................................... 18 MTS 100th....................................................................................... 18 ÉMR Chapter................................................................................... 19 RWTA Fashion Show........................................................................ 21 MTS (Manitoba Teacher’s Society) Warming Hut................................ 22 MTS (Manitoba Teacher’s Society)..................................................... 23 Story-Tellers Wanted......................................................................... 24 Keeping Families Close®................................................................... 26 Life Members................................................................................... 26 In Memoriam................................................................................... 27 A Focus On The Long-Term Sustainability Of Your TRAF Pension Plan............................................................... 28 Teacher And Students Together Again............................................... 29 Notices & Coming Events................................................................. 31

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by May 15, 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.

2 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

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

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President’s Message

Joan Dawson RTAM President 2018-2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

A

s I sit at my desk working on my report for KIT, the sun is shining brightly but it is still -28 Celsius here. It has been an exceptionally cold winter so far. Hopefully, spring is around the corner and we won’t have too long to wait for the snow to go and be replaced with green grass and spring foliage. In December, I was in COSTCO with my sister and we sat down with a retired teacher and his wife while waiting for my brother-in-law to pick us up. We had a great conversation with him about his teaching career and the fact that he was an RTAM member. He told me that he really enjoyed the KIT magazine and read it from cover to cover. I often hear this said about our magazine. It never gets old.

This edition of KIT contains important information about the 2019 RTAM AGM on May 7 and 8 in Brandon, Manitoba. Please read carefully and think about the many ways that you can participate in the AGM and with RTAM throughout the year. As well as attending the

AGM, you could nominate someone for a Distinguished Service Award, nominate someone to run for the Board of Directors or put your own name forward. All positions on the RTAM Board from the Directors to the President are one year terms that need to be filled annually. New members bring fresh enthusiasm and new ideas. Please consider also volunteering to serve on a committee. This year saw several new people sitting on committees but there is room for more every year as members come and go, making room for new people. Please be mindful of the deadlines for registration for the AGM as well as the deadlines for both nominations for the Distinguished Service Awards and Directors.

We welcome the attendance of as many of the RTAM members as possible at the 2019 AGM in Brandon. Hope to see you there.

By the time KIT arrives in your mailbox, a meeting will have taken place with the Minister if Education, Kelvin Goertzen, and representatives Next page

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

from his office and our RTAM representatives at the request of the RTAM Pension Committee, to share our thoughts on matters of concern to all RTAM members. Dialogues with the New Democratic Party and the Liberal Party are being planned as well.

An Adhoc committee prepared a submission in response to the public invitation from Government for input into the 2019 Provincial Budget. The committee did an excellent job preparing this submission in the short period of time allowed. The submission included comments on the effects of inflation on older persons on fixed incomes, support for defined benefits pensions, economic impact of volunteer work by RTAM members, recognition of the increase in funding for various initiatives that help improve citizens cope with life changes and encouragement for continued investment in areas such as joint replacement, cataract surgeries, seniors housing, transportation and Pharmacare. Concern was also expressed that with the repeal of The Manitoba Council on Aging Act, Government has

eliminated the advisory body on matters related to the aging process and the needs and interests of older Manitobans, leading to the conclusion that seniors are becoming invisible to Government.

TRAF representatives, Jeff Norton, President & CEO, Chief Investment Officer and Brad Prokop, Vice President, Pensions, presented the TRAF 2018 Annual Briefing Session at our December Board Meeting. The two hour presentation inspired many questions and resulted in a proposed article based on the theme of common questions and misconceptions about TRAF and our pensions for inclusion in KIT. This year marks the 100th Anniversary of The Manitoba Teachers’ Society. RTAM has had representation on the celebratory planning committee and looks forward in anticipation to the formal acknowledgment of this significant event.

The RTAM Board had accepted, with regret, the resignation of our Executive Director, MaryAnne Slegers, after three years of service. We thank Mary-Anne for her service and wish her well in the future. 

RTAM

Photography CONTEST KIT Editorial Committee Winter 2019 Photo Contest The two categories are: • Looks Delicious: Food too pretty to eat? Take a picture and enjoy!

• My Favourite Vehicle: a car, a bike, a truck, a skateboard, etc.

Entry Form > https://rtam.mb.ca/index.php/rtam-kit/photo-contest-entry-form Rules > https://rtam.mb.ca/index.php/rtam-kit/photo-contest-rules Or use the forms in the winter 2018 edition of KIT All entries to be sent by mail, email, fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m. April 5, 2019.

4 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2019

2019 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Registration Form

WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019 Clarion Hotel & Suites, 3130 Victoria Ave., Brandon, MB 204-728-5775 | 1-800-852-2709 (toll-free) ALL RTAM MEMBERS ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND Advance Registration Fee, if received on or before April 8, 2019 is $15.00 Registration Fee, if received after April 8, 2019 is $25.00 The registration fee includes the pre-AGM Johnson Inc. presentation and evening reception (cash bar) for the member and a guest on May 7 and the AGM (lunch included) on May 8. REGISTRANTS MUST MAKE THEIR OWN HOTEL RESERVATIONS. The Clarion Hotel & Suites is offering a reduced rate for reservations made on or before April 5, 2019. Refer to Reservation Group Code: RTAM. PLEASE PRINT: Name: Address: (include postal code)

Email:

Phone:

Date

Tuesday May 7

Event & Time

Refer to Agenda for complete details

Attending

Guest

(Y or N)

(Y or N)

Registration Fee After April 10

$15.00*

$25.00*

Johnson Inc. Presentation 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Reception 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Wednesday AGM May 8 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Lunch (Buffet) Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Total Fees

Advance Registration Fee

*

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 and include it in the Total Fees.

Guest Name: Please identify any health related dietary accommodation required for you or your guest. _________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Mail to: RTAM AGM, 206-1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 by April 30, 2019 This form may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca

RTAM.MB.CA n 5

2019 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Call For Nominations

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019 Clarion Hotel & Suites, Brandon, Manitoba

“CALL FOR NOMINATIONS” 2019 – 2020 RTAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nominations for the Officers and Board of Directors of RTAM will be accepted up to and including Friday April 5, 2019, at 3:00 p.m. Nominations may also be made from the floor of the AGM assembly.

The term of office for a Board position is one year. In addition, most Board Members also serve on one of the Standing Committees. Board Meetings are held monthly from September to June on the third Wednesday of the month. The exceptions are April, when the Board meets on the second Wednesday of the month and May when the Board Meeting coincides with the AGM usually held in the second week of May. Committees generally meet the day after the Board Meeting.

Nominees and nominators must be full RTAM members in good standing. Nominees must be sufficiently conversant with current communication methods as to be capable of participating in, and assisting with, the work of the board including access to and working knowledge of email.

An individual can nominate themselves. Any RTAM member may be nominated for one Officer position and one Director position. An unsuccessful candidate for the Officer position has the right to stand for a Director position, if they have so indicated on the nomination form. Nominees who meet the nomination deadline are invited to submit a biography (250 word maximum) and photo to be included in the AGM Elections booklet no later than April 10, 2019, to office@rtam.mb.ca.

The positions open to election on May 8, 2019, 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 5, 2019, via completed Nomination Forms. Nomination forms must be signed by the nominee, or 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 from the AGM floor open to when they close.

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.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ Questions? Contact RTAM 204-889-3660; 1-888-393-8082 (toll-free) or office@rtam.mb.ca.

This information may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca

6 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2019

2019 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

2019-2020 RTAM Board Nomination Form MAY 8, 2019 Clarion Hotel & Suites, Brandon, Manitoba

2019-2020 RTAM BOARD NOMINATION FORM 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 6, 2019, at 3:00 p.m.

As a Full RTAM member, I, ______________________________________, nominate the following Full RTAM member: Name of Nominee: Address: (include postal code) Email:

Phone:

for the position of: (check one officer position only (1. to 4.), then check Director for nomination as a Director, if unsuccessful in the officer position, or check Director (5.) for nomination as a Director only): 1. President

Or Director

2. Vice President

Or Director

3. Secretary

Or Director

4. Treasurer

Or Director

5. Director The signed permission of the nominee: ______________________________________________________ Or, attach a signed statement of permission from the nominee.

Nominees are invited to submit a biography (no longer than half a page) and photo to be included in the AGM Elections Booklet no later than April 10, 2019, to office@rtam.mb.ca.

Mail, hand-deliver or courier the completed Nomination Form to: RTAM – Nominations 206 – 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Nomination forms must be received by 3:00 p.m., Friday, April 5, 2019.

There will be a meeting of the newly elected board from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Thursday, May 9, 2019, at the Clarion Hotel and Suites, Brandon, MB _____________________________________________________________________________________________ This form may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca.

RTAM.MB.CA n 7

2019 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Volunteer to Become an RTAM Committee Member

VOLUNTEER TO BECOME AN RTAM COMMITTEE MEMBER All RTAM members are encouraged and invited to volunteer on a Committee. As with any organization, RTAM is always in need of volunteers with diverse skills, creativity and innovative thinking to keep the organization moving forward.

Committee work gives everyone the opportunity to get to know more about RTAM and each other as we work toward making our organization better.

The term of office for a Committee member is one year. Each Committee is chaired by a Board member. Most Committee meetings are held monthly from September to June, on the Thursday of the third week of the month with the exception of April, when meetings are held on the Thursday of the second week of the month. Meetings can be held in person or via teleconference, at the discretion of the Chair, in consultation with the committee member(s). Personal expenses incurred by committee members for attending committee meetings or distance participation are reimbursed at approved RTAM rates.

Volunteers must be sufficiently conversant with current communication methods as to be capable of participating in, and assisting with, the work of the board including access to and working knowledge of email.

Please submit your name, tell us a little bit about yourself and indicate the committee you would be interested in joining.

If you plan on standing for election, or have been elected, to the Board of Directors and are interested in chairing a committee, please indicate so. For more information about the Committees, visit our website at www.rtam.mb.ca. The Board tries to accommodate as many requests as reasonable and possible as we constitute balanced committees within the parameters of our bylaws and policies.

Name: Address: (include postal code) Email:

Phone:

COMMITTEE

Member ü

Chair ü

COMMITTEE

AGM & Elections

Pension

Benefits

Political Advocacy

Bylaws and Policy

Public Relations

Educational Advocacy & Wellness

Student Awards

Keep In Touch (KIT) Magazine

Website

Member ü

Chair ü

Membership & Chapters Provide a short reflection of your relevant skills or experiences:

Submit this form to the registration desk at the AGM, e-mail this form or include the relevant information in an email to office@rtam.mb.ca, NO LATER than Monday, May 27, 2019.

This form can be copied, downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca or picked up at the AGM 8 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2019

2019 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Distinguished Service Award

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD Do you know someone who 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 and the name, address, email and telephone number of both the nominee and nominator.

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 Tuesday May 8, 2018, at the Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West, Winnipeg, Manitoba. RTAM shall assume all travel and accommodation expenses, incurred by the recipient to attend the Tuesday evening reception and the AGM on Wednesday, on the same basis and rates allotted to chapter presidents.

E. The President shall receive the nominations.

Mail, hand-deliver or courier nominee submissions to: Joan Dawson, President Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba 206 – 1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Deadline: Nominee submissions must be received at the RTAM office by 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 28, 2019.

This information may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca.

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

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 $850 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:

City/Town:

Phone Number:

Cell Number:

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

Year Graduated:

School Address: (Street)

(City)

(Postal Code)

Post Secondary Plans Program

Location

RTAM SPONSORING MEMBER INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT) Full Name

Mailing Address

City

Province

Postal Code

Phone

Cell

Email

TO BE COMPLETED BY SPONSORING RTAM MEMBER:

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

Date:

Applicant’s Signature

Date:

THE DEADLINE FOR 2018 APPLICATIONS IS JULY 31, 2019 If further information is required, please contact the office (see below).

SUBMISSIONS TO INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1. Application Form 2. Applicant’s description of school and community activities (one page)

Office/Voicemail Phone: 1-204-889-3660 Manitoba Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 Fax: 1-204-783-2011

10 n RTAM KIT Spring 2018

3.

4.

Letter of reference/support from a non-family member (one page) Final Grade 12 official high school transcript of marks (copy only)

Email: office@rtam.mb.ca Website: www.rtam.mb.ca

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

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Bylaws and Policy Beth Smith, Chair, Bylaws and Policy

Next page RTAM.MB.CA n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Next page → 12 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Petition for Pension Security Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités Canadian Association of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART)

T

he Canadian Association of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART) has posted petition e-2039 on the House of Commons petition site to encourage government to increase the security of retirement income.

• The number of defined benefit pension plans in Canada have declined even though they are the most efficient and secure way to fund retirement income.

• The introduction of Target Benefit plans, whereby members surrender their secure defined pension benefits, would transfer the risk to plan members, which inevitably reduces pension payments to vulnerable seniors.

• Private sector pension plans members, like Sears Canada employees, suffer when a business closes because the pension plan promises are at the lowest priority, behind investors, management bonuses and corporate profits.

This petition asks government to affirm the principle that pension promises cannot be broken for any service that has already been earned. It also asks government to protect the pensions of retirees by providing an insurance plan, paid for by pension plans, that would guarantee the benefits of retirees if their plan closes.

It’s easy to participate. Visit www.pensionsecurity. ca and follow the links to sign the petition.

You may participate in this e-petition even if

you have already participated in previous paper petitions as this petition language is new.

THE PETITION CLOSES ON APRIL 8, 2019 Petition e-2039 Whereas: • Canadians throughout their working years have individually contributed to their pensions, and their employers have contributed to those pensions as deferred wages; • Canadians who have defined benefit pension plans should not live in fear that their earned benefits might be reduced when they are in their most vulnerable senior years; and • Canadians who have worked and contributed to defined benefit pension plans should be protected from the loss of their pensions through bankruptcy or mismanagement of their pension administration and investments.

Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens of Canada, call upon the Government of Canada to promote and protect earned pensions for all Canadians in the future, to withdraw Bill C-27, and to establish a national pension insurance program to ensure that seniors can live with financial security. 

Bylaws and Policy . . . continued from previous page

RTAM.MB.CA n 13

We’re making some exciting changes to your RTAM travel policy

W

hether you’re going for a spring getaway or perhaps planning a shorter jaunt to visit loved ones, there are now even more reasons to look forward to your next trip.

That’s because as of April 1, 2019, Premier Travel Insurance underwritten by Desjardins Financial is being replaced by Prestige Travel Insurance underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada. With Prestige Travel Insurance through Johnson Insurance, you can now enjoy new coverage features*.

We’ve compiled a quick and easy list of some of the benefits under your NEW Prestige Travel Insurance policy: NEW Prestige Travel Insurance

• Coverage for multiple trips of up to 62 days outside of Canada And additional coverage available for trips outside of Canada beyond 62 days (at an additional cost) PLUS Unlimited duration travel coverage within Canada • Up to $5,000,000 per person, per policy year in emergency medical coverage • Optional benefit - Up to $8,000 per person, per trip in trip cancellation, trip interruption and delay benefits • Up to $1,500 per insured (a maximum of $3,000 per family) in baggage & personal effects benefits 14 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

These are just some of the features of the new Prestige Travel Insurance. Refer to your new booklet for the full details on your Prestige Travel Insurance coverage.

Plus, as a Johnson Insurance customer, you continue to receive our friendly and reliable customer service along with online help and support and our 24/7 claims service.

To find out more about your new Prestige Travel Insurance coverage, contact 1.877.989.2600.

Enjoy your next trip and rest easy knowing you’re covered through Johnson Insurance.  *Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc. (“Johnson”), a licensed insurance intermediary, and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia. Prestige Travel Insurance is underwritten

by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada (“RSA”) and administered by Johnson. Valid provincial or territorial health plan coverage required.

RSA and Johnson share common ownership. Trip Cancellation, Interruption & Delay benefits are optional and apply only to travel arrangements booked prior to your date of departure. Eligibility requirements, limitations, exclusions or additional costs may apply, and/or may vary by province or territory. Policy wordings prevail.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Beth Smith, Member of Membership & Chapters

RTAM’s website (rtam.mb.ca) has a list of Chapter Meeting Ideas collected from the various Chapters around the province as well as two Chapters in British Columbia and 1 Chapter in Calgary. The following are just a few of those ideas: • Apply for a Chapter Initiative Grant through RTAM. • Collect food for food hampers and distribute them to a local food bank.

• A “Tin for the Bin” for Christmas hampers.

• Partner with the Diabetes Association to offer classroom presentations on diabetes awareness.

• Collect travel size lotion, shampoo and soap to donate to a local women’s shelter.

• Collect unwanted or outgrown toys to donate to a local women’s shelter.

• Deliver Meals on Wheels.

• Collect eyeglasses for Lions Eyeglass Recycle for Sight.

• Help prepare and/or deliver meals for the Breakfast/Lunch Program in local schools.

• Collect needed supplies for your local Humane Society. Also donate time and/or money for the upkeep of the building and its inhabitants.

• Volunteer to work as ushers at hockey tournaments or other sports events.

• At your meeting have a draw for a night at the movies, dinner out, coffee cards, etc.

• Judge posters, projects for a school or community event.

• Offer to read books during “I Love to Read” month.

• Offer to teach Literacy or English as an Additional Language in your community.

• Offer an educational session with children at the local library where you read stories on how plants grow and then plant seeds with the children.

• Place an article in an issue of KIT. KIT is now sent to all Manitoba schools. Active teachers will be aware of the RTAM organization and the various chapters throughout Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia.

• Provide a “Welcome to Retirement” bag with various goodies to newly retired teachers to encourage them to join their local retired teacher association.

• Host an “Open House.”

• Have a travel agent talk about possible travel destinations.

• Have a “Bucket Trip List” activity, have members share experiences of recent trips in the form of slides, pictures and commentary.

• Offer a Winter Driving Skills Workshop. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 15

COMMITTEE REPORTS

“Be informed: Read the Fine Print!”

Pat Bowslaugh, Chair, Benefits Committee

E

xperiences shared by our members become a “gold mine” to the rest of us.

“How is that?” you might be asking. Read on.

One of our members moved to BC and although he did not have medical coverage from RTAM, we have discovered that his experiences are not uncommon. Reading the “fine print” in your insurance documents is essential and may be fundamental to avoiding unfortunate “concerns”.

Concern # 1:

If you take up residence in another province, check how much your coverage will be in your new province. For example, Health Care Coverage may be based on the exact amount for which you would be covered in Manitoba. Thus, if the cost of your intervention in your new province happens to be higher, your coverage might only be the amount you would have received in Manitoba.

You then become responsible for the difference in cost between Manitoba and that of your new province.

Concern # 2:

Each province has lists called a Formulary which identifies all of the medications that may be covered by the Health Care System of that province. Provinces do not have identical lists. In the event of you moving to a different province, you are advised to research to see if your medications are covered in your new place of residence.

Concern # 3:

Oftentimes, individuals are prescribed a new medication that is not yet on the Formulary List and thus not covered by insurance. Ask your doctor to prepare an “Exception Drug Status” form which is a communication stating that the medication is essential for your particular 16 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

health situation. Your doctor must then forward your drug Status form to your province’s Health Authority for review and possible acceptance.

Upon acceptance, you must then communicate the approval to your Health Care Provider. (This would be the company/organization through which you obtained your insurance coverage. ) Based on such a process you may be sufficiently fortunate to receive approval for coverage through your health insurance policy. (You have the right to appeal if unsuccessful.) Please remember that provinces differ. Your research with your doctor is essential.

Once approved, it is “future” prescriptions that are covered; there is no retroactive support.

Contact Johnson, Inc. for further information.

(See contact information below. ) Concern # 4:

Another member alerted us to concerns about dental interventions.

When seeking dental care ask for a cost appraisal of what interventions your dentist is suggesting. Then ask questions to clarify the specifics of what you are getting.

Note that there are different methods of filling a cavity. There are also different methods of replacing a tooth.

Please know in advance of the work being proposed that costs may vary from one method to another and from one practitioner to another. It is your right to ask and your responsibility to choose so there are no surprises when you receive your bill.

Protect your smile!

Appreciation note # 1:

If you have any questions and/or you cannot find answers in your RTAM sponsored benefit plan materials, you are welcome to seek clarification from Johnson at 1-877-989-2600. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Political Advocacy John Sushelnitsky, Chair, Political Advocacy

P

art of the mandate of the Political Advocacy Committee is to do assignments sent to it by the Board, but another part of the mandate is to keep the Board informed of trends and events which may impact our members and our organization. It is this flexibility that allows the PA committee to be the “eyes and ears” of our organization regarding the larger world community of which we are a part.

So, how do we use that flexibility?

We encourage our Chapters to do activities that highlight the United Nations Day of the Older Persons, which falls every year on October 1.

Whether we have the mayor of our town declare a Proclamation recognizing the contributions senior citizens have and are making, or bring cookies to school classes , or join with senior centres to host workshops explaining government services, each RTAM member could do something to enrich the community in which they live.

In line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommendations, the RTAM Board passed a motion, last March, to provide a bursary to an Indigenous student pursuing post high school education. The bursary is being administered by the University College of the North, centred in The Pas. It falls in line with bursaries offered by the Manitoba Teachers’ Society and the Manitoba Association of School Superintendents. The University College will choose the student based on a detailed application form and will keep RTAM informed on the student’s progress. The $1,000 bursary will cost Members about ten cents of the $36.00 we pay each year. It is truly “a hand up, not a hand out.”

The PA Committee has informed you of the experiment going on in British Columbia. With many voters disenchanted with the “first-pastthe-post system” (FPTP) which allows political parties to get more than 50% of the seats with only 30% of the vote, there has been a search for a system that gives any political party a fair share of the seats; 30% of the votes gives you 30% of the seats ”proportional representation (PR).” Most countries in the world have adopted this fairer system, but not Canada, the United States or Great Britain.

Recently, in BC, there was a referendum to determine which of the two system voters preferred. The result: six out of ten chose (fptp) and four chose PR. Not bad for a first time choice! In fact, before he was elected prime minister, Mr. Trudeau declared that the last election would be the last time for fptp.

Whatever changed his mind, Mr. Trudeau is now comfortable with a system that favours the main parties.

That flexibility allows us to report on global trends, such as the growing disparity in wealth between the very rich in society and the rest of us, the economic grip corporations have on our lives and the gender inequality that exists in the workplace.

In brief, the Political Advocacy Committee does what it is asked to do by the Board, but it also has a role to play in keeping the Board and our RTAM members informed of the forces which shape our lives as citizens of Canada and the world. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 17

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Workshops

MTS 100th

Text and photo by John Sushelnitsky

Text and photo by John Sushelnitsky

J

ackie Hunt of Volunteer Manitoba has given good advice and instruction to the RTAM Board on two occasions. In January, 2018, she gave us a guide to “Effective, Efficient & Enjoyable Meetings” and more recently, in November, 2018, she addressed the subject of “Governance in a not-for-profit organization.” She proved herself to be well informed and gracious in her task of “rounding up the cats” as she led us through the growing pains of moving from a volunteers only mode to a more professional mode able to service 10,000 members. 

J

ames Bedford, vice President of the Manitoba Teachers' Society, has, on a number of occasions, met with the RTAM Board to keep us well informed of all the preparations leading to the 100th Anniversary of the Society in 2019. Our Director, Beth Smith and Pat Lewicki, RTAM member, have been integral members of the Anniversary Planning Committee. 

RTAM POLO SHIRT If you are going to the AGM in Brandon in May, this is a great opportunity to purchase a RTAM polo shirt for the same price as last year: $29.50 plus tax, final cost $33.34. If you would like one, all you have to do is send a cheque for $33.34 to John Sushelnitsky at 818 Crescent Road West, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 0Z1. Indicate whether you would like the men's or the women’s design and the size. Experience from last year advises to choose one size larger than you would normally wear. John will have the polo shirt ready for you in Brandon.

18 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

CHAPTER REPORTS

ÉMR Chapter Norma Lacroix-Gagné

Photo de groupe / Group photo

T

his Fall, members of the ÉMR Chapter participated in four very different activities.

September 20: a wine-and-cheese at Place des Meurons to welcome newly retired teachers and introduce them to our ÉMR chapter.

We were 27 participants, including four new retirees. We were happy to welcome Julienne Bosc, Paul Bosc, Roma Falsarella and Gérard Massé. Camaraderies and animated conversations accompanied the snacks and wines. Thank you to RTAM for the financial help received for this event. Many thanks to Lucienne and Lucien Loiselle who facilitated the use of the hall at 400 Des Meurons Street. Thanks as well to Raymond Bisson who organized this lovely get-together.

October 18: a visit to the Crystal Spring

Hutterite Colony followed by lunch at the Reimer Student Life Centre of Providence College in Otterburne. Thirty-two members were warmly greeted by our guides, Irvin Edward Kleinsassen, for an educational tour of the colony: the school, kitchen, church and their very specialized, high tech workshops. The extraordinary buffet lunch at Providence College was appreciated by all.

November 15: a workshop on how to begin a genealogical research at the Centre du Patrimoine in Saint-Boniface and lunch at the restaurant Resto Gare. The session was both interesting and informative for the 35 participants. As usual, the meal in the train section of Resto Gare was delicious. We were pleased to welcome three new members to our chapter: Doris and Julien Next page

Raymond Bisson, Denis Clément, Gérard Massé (nouveau membre / new member), Lucienne Loiselle

Denis Bisson, Aimée LaBossière, Lyse Bisson

Marc Beaudry, René Perreault, Pierre Beaudoin

Dans le / In the Centre du Patrimoine

RTAM.MB.CA n 19

CHAPTER REPORTS Lachance as well as Paulette Pineau-Hughes.

Thanks go to Raymond Bisson who organized this activity.

December 13: a Christmas dinner at Aaltos in the Canad’Inn of Windsor Park and an evening of Christmas carolling.

We were 53 members and spouses at our annual Christmas get-together. Dinner was followed by a sing-along of Christmas carols with Guy Lacroix

at the guitar while his wife Agathe passed the microphone around the room. In the spirit of Christmas, a hat was passed around and $ 445.00 was collected to donate to the Flavie-Laurent Centre. Thanks to our sponsors for the 18 door prizes.. A warm welcome to three new members: Claire Asselin, Suzanne Jolicoeur and Bernard Beaudry. Thanks to Denis Gautron and Marc Beaudry for organizing this event. 

Section ÉMR soumis Norma Lacroix-Gagné

C

et automne les membres de la section des ÉMR ont participé à quatre activités très variées.

Le 20 septembre: un vin-fromage pour accueillir des nouveaux et nouvelles profs à la retraite et leur faire connaître les ÉMR. Nous étions 27 participants, dont quatre nouvellement retraités. Bienvenue à Julienne Bosc, Paul Bosc, Roma Falsarella et Gérard Massé. La camaraderie et les bonnes conversations rayonnaient d’ampleur. Bonnes grignotines et bons vins agrémentaient bien le plaisir de se retrouver.

Merci à la RTAM qui nous a offert de l'aide financière pour cette activité. Remerciements à Lucienne et Lucien Loiselle qui ont facilité l’utilisation des locaux au 400 rue des Meurons.

Merci aussi à Raymond Bisson qui a organisé cette belle rencontre.

Le 18 octobre: une visite à la colonie Huttérite de Crystal Spring et un dîner au Collège universitaire Providence à Otterburne.

Trente-deux membres furent chaleureusement reçus par nos guides Irvin et Edward Kleinsassen

pour une tournée éducative des lieux: l'école, la cuisine, l'église, et les usines très spécialisées et à la fine pointe de la technologie. Le repas, un buffet extraordinaire au Reimer Student Life Centre sur le campus du Collège universitaire Providence, fut apprécié de tous. Merci à Denis Clément et Evelyne Beaudoin qui ont tout organisé.

Le 15 novembre: un atelier sur la recherche généalogique au Centre du Patrimoine à SaintBoniface et un dîner au Resto Gare.

Jean-Pierre Noël fut notre animateur au Centre du Patrimoine. Ce fut une rencontre informative et intéressante pour les 35 participants. Nous souhaitons la bienvenue à trois nouveaux membres: Doris et Julien Lachance ainsi que Paulette Pineau-Hughes. Le repas au Resto Gare fut délicieux. Merci à Raymond Bisson qui a organisé cette activité.

Le 13 décembre: un souper de Noël chez Aaltos au Canad’Inn du parc Windsor et une soirée de chants de Noël.

Nous étions 53 membres et conjoints à notre rencontre annuelle de Noël. Le repas fut suivi Next page →

Dans le / In the Train Bar @ Resto Gare

20 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

Lorraine & Raymond Bisson, Mimi Iafolla, Colette Balcaen, Ginette Préjet, Patricia Thibodeau, Julien & Doris Lachance

Alphonse Tétrault, Guy Lacroix

Denis Clément, Guy Gagnon, Arsène Huberdeau, Gerry Clément

CHAPTER REPORTS

RWTA Fashion Show Cecile Alarie-Skene

T

he Retired Women Teachers’ Association featured a colourful fashion show as part of their September 27 meeting, the first of this year’s program. Ten models, all members of RWTA, displayed the latest in fall and winter wear from Northern Reflections. Participating were Cory Juan, Brenda McConnell, Amy Eisner, Dorothy Young, Lynda Tunny, Sandra Corqueira,

Phyllis Hunter, Louise Burton, Joan Lloyd and Manuelita Mejos. Also pictured are the representatives from Northern Reflections.

The next luncheon of RWTA took place at the Masonic Centre on December 13 at 11:45 a.m. and was open to all retired women teachers and guests. A hot turkey dinner was served at $20 for members and $25 for non-members. 

Section ÉMR soumis . . . continued from previous page de chants animés par Guy Lacroix à la guitare et son épouse Agathe. Dans l'esprit de Noël, le chapeau fut passé et nous avons ramassé 445 $ pour offrir au Centre Flavie-Laurent. Merci à nos commanditaires pour les 18 prix d'entrée.

La camaraderie, la joie de vivre et les retrouvailles ont fortement ajouté à une merveilleuse soirée.

Une très chaleureuse bienvenue à trois nouveaux membres : Claire Asselin, Suzanne Jolicoeur et Bernard Beaudry. Merci à Denis Gautron et Marc Beaudry qui ont organisé cette soirée. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 21

MTS (Manitoba Teacher’s Society) Warming Hut Beth Smith, RTAM representative on the MTS 100th anniversary committee Top photo courtesy of Matea Tuhtar (MTS Staff) and right photo by Skylar Bélanger, Tec Voc Photography

C

arpentry, machine and welding technology students at Tec Voc High School built a replica of a one-room schoolhouse to help commemorate the MTS 100th Anniversary this year.

The schoolhouse, designed by students in the design and drafting program, will spend the winter season on The Red River Mutual Trail (river trail) at The Forks.

Inside, the schoolhouse is equipped with benches and a little free library, stocked with a variety of books. 

22 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

MTS (Manitoba Teacher’s Society) 75th Anniversary Time Capsule Opening Article by Beth Smith, photos by Matea Tuhtar (MTS Staff)

O

n October 20, 2018, guests gathered in the Atrium of McMaster House to witness the opening of what the 75th Anniversary Committee sealed into a Time Capsule, 25 years ago on, May 28, 1994.

The Time Capsule has a glass lid to showcase the contents and is on permanent display in the foyer of the Arnett Auditorium at McMaster House. 

Norm Gould, (MTS President, opens the MTS 75th Anniversary Time Capsule while Provincial Executive, Association Presidents and the 75th and 100th Anniversary Committee members look on.

75th Anniversary Committee Members from left to right: Cordell Barker, Val Wake-Barker, Art Reimer, James Bedford (MTS VP), Doug Moore, Phyllis Moore and Linda Thomas Missing – John Warkentin

100th Anniversary Committee Members from left to right: Jonathan Waite (SRTA), Sydney Shore (Strauss Event and Association Management), Catherine Hart (SOTA), Pat Lewicki (RTAM), James Bedford (MTS VP), Valerie Remillard (EFM), Jason Oliver (RETTA), Beth Smith (RTAM), Mary Chalmers (BLTA) Missing – Roland Stankevicious (MTS Staff), Sandy Turcotte (COSL), Shawna Dobbelaere (WESTTA) RTAM.MB.CA n 23

Story-Tellers Wanted Duane Duff, Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia

W

hat do you know about the generations before yours in your family? Likewise, what have you told your descendants about you, your times, and your experiences?

My dad homesteaded near Broadacres, in western Saskatchewan, in the first two decades of the 20th century. He returned to southwestern Ontario in 1917 with his wife and two children, ages seven and three. It was several years into the 21st century when I learned from an older brother that the remains of an old car, along the lane behind our barn when I was a child, had been the vehicle that had brought the family back to Ontario. It was a Saxon of about 1917 vintage. I have made the trip between Alberta and the same part of Ontario several times. My cars were much newer and the highways also were much better. Those trips were still long and tiring. What was the family's route and did they have any car trouble? How long did the trip take? My dad never told me – nor did I ask him.

What an experience that must have been! It is now lost. How many more stories from my dad, my mother, and my maternal grandfather did I miss?

I have learned very little of the generations before me. Yet, I knew several great aunts and uncles and several great-great aunts and uncles after I left home following high school.

It took me 62 years, after one of my brothers was

24 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

released from prisoner-of-war camp in Germany, for me to write the story of his experience. What a story that was! I learned a bit about my oldest brother and my sister during World War II, but I never questioned them afterwards. When I was in grade 7, a retired major came to our school and described trench warfare in World War I. What an impact those talks had on us students!

I was 75 before I started writing stories of my memories for my own grandchildren, resulting in my autobiography being formed. I realized that, when a person dies, so do his/her untold experiences. That inspired me to collect stories from people in several countries, then in specific professions, mainly military veterans and retired teachers. Some people feel that they do not have stories, yet they have shown that they do. Others supply amazing stories from their memories. Still others choose to keep their memories private. Thus, their stories will be lost.

I am urging younger people to seek out the stories of older members of their family who have lived in times of the past. They have so much to share.

Likewise, older members need to pass on their stories, whether written or oral. Down through the ages, this has been done by people who recognized the value of doing so. Researchers have used these records to write various types of history. However, anything not preserved is lost history.

Do not leave your descendants wondering about your times and your experiences. Who knows who might benefit from your taking the time to relate your memories.

Some people keep extensive diaries of their day-to-day activities. This is history in the making.

Some remember the past and tell it orally. This brings to mind the story of Alex Haley's Roots in which the author traced his genealogy to Africa, several generations back. Yes, genealogy is history of family trees. Some tracers travel far to create books about their ancestry. Yet, some people have no interest in this hobby and, thus, know little or nothing of their family background.

There was a group centred in Toronto that was collecting oral stories of war veterans while they were living, Time is running out. There was a group in Surrey BC that was helping seniors, who wanted to record their personal stories, by interviewing them and then writing the story for each person.

There may be others trying to save stories, but there are not enough.

Is it not time for you to record the information for your descendants? You will not always be here to provide it. You may be a housewife, a labourer, a homeless person, a professional, or a retired person – anyone. You have a story! If you can use a keyboard, or a pen and notebook, or have someone who can record while you narrate your experiences, or are able to compose your story, you are all set to have it preserved. You may find that your memories of times and places are useful to your local archive as primary sources and thus to researchers. At

least, tell your story informally to your children and grandchildren.

I have stories of many fascinating people who shared with me. One man was born with a physical defect and has ever since used crutches or wheelchairs. He rightly considered himself a survivor. One lady trained as a minister, but, on reaching her charge, found that she was also the teacher of 35 students (K-9), with the only supplies being slates and two copies of a reader. In her later years, she became famous for her letter-writing to up to 1,000 service personnel per month – yes, per month. A member of the Correspondence Department of a foreign shortwave station felt that she was only a common person when invited to share her story. She was happy when she went to work and happy when she returned home. She provided a beautiful story.

Do not worry about proper English when you relate your story by the written word or by the oral word. Someone can provide help on that later. Producing your memories is what is most important. If you are not already doing this, how soon will you start? You will enjoy it and will know that you are contributing to future generations.

Do not leave your descendants wondering about your times and your experiences. Who knows who might benefit from your taking the time to relate your memories.  RTAM.MB.CA n 25

Keeping Families Close® Article submitted by Ronald McDonald House Charities Manitoba

“P

roviding a much-needed and muchappreciated service to others in their time of need” brought Nancy Trush, a retired teacher from the Transcona-Springfield School Division, to volunteer with Ronald McDonald House Charities® Manitoba. For the last five years, Dorothy Barg-Neufeld, a retired mediator, and Nancy have volunteered together to bring warmth and compassion to all those who come through the Ronald McDonald Family Room® doors.

Each and every day, volunteers like Nancy and Dorothy help support families at both core Ronald McDonald House Charities programs.

Located on the third floor of the hospital, Ronald McDonald Family Room is a 3,500 square foot space that supports both Winnipeg and rural families. The day use area is open seven days a week from 9 am to 9 pm and offers a full kitchen, shower and laundry facilities, a napping lounge, a dining area, a children’s play area, and computer access. Three overnight sleeping rooms on-site provide a safe haven for families, directly in HSC. In 2018, the Family Room welcomed over 24,000 visitors and provided overnight accommodation to 239 families.

Ronald McDonald House® is a “home-awayfrom-home” for rural Manitoba and out-ofprovince families with a child requiring treatment at a nearby hospital. The 11,000 square foot House is located on Bannatyne Avenue, only two blocks from HSC Children’s Hospital. It accommodates up to 14 families at one time.

Families have access to a safe, welcoming, clean and compassionate home environment offering accommodations, meals, transportation, parking, laundry, computer, wireless Internet, large kitchen and dining room, fitness room, multiple common areas, and shared washrooms. The House program supported 179 families with average length of stays ranging from only one night to over 2 months.

26 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

To help relieve the financial and emotional stress our families’ experience, the Ronald McDonald House and Family Room core programs offer all the comforts of home. Our two core programs also provide a wide variety of programming intended to provide our guests with an opportunity to spend time together as a family and relieve stress.

Volunteers like Nancy and Dorothy are an integral part of operations that keep families together every day at Ronald McDonald House Charities Manitoba. If you are interested in volunteering your time with at either of our two core programs, please visit rmhcmanitoba.org or call/email Kasia James at 204-787-4626 or kasia@rmhmanitoba.org for more information. 

Life Members November 2018 Shirley Biedler, Beausejour, MB Ruth E. Bilowus, Brandon, MB John J. Dyck, Winnipeg, MB Kathleen Tomecko, Oakbank, MB Roy E. White, Winnipeg, MB December 2018 Vona E. Cochrane, Brandon, MB Mary Grudeski, Cranbrook, BC Beatrice Jolly, Brandon, MB Arnice Pollock, Winnipeg, MB Helen A. Sigurdson, Winnipeg, MB January 2019 Elizabeth Brooks, Winnipeg, MB Bernice B. Enstrom, Fisher Branch, MB Betty M. Gingrich, Gimli, MB William J. Hutton, Winnipeg, MB Alma Pippy, Winnipeg, MB

In Memoriam August 2018 McCallister, Diane, Portage la Prairie, MB

October 2018 Achtemichuk, Paula L., Narol, MB Anderson, Hazel, Grandview, MB Baird, Winnifred A., Brandon, MB Barzey, Mary Albertha, Winnipeg, MB Bially, Eva, Tolstoi, MB Charlesworth, Clifford, E., Victoria, BC Field, Marvin William, Winnipeg, MB Fredrickson, Lois D., Winnipegosis, MB Friedman, Lloyd A., Winnipeg, MB Gossfeld, Emma Abbey, Thompson, MB Harrison, Michael E., Dauphin, MB Henley, Lorraine Evelyn, Courtenay, BC Kines, Helena, Roblin, MB Kirk, Nora, Hamiota, MB Kish, June Helen, Niagara Falls, ON McIntyre, Audrey W., Winnipeg, MB Shand, Carol Deborah, Winnipeg, MB Swidinsky, Anthony A., Winnipeg, MB Thompson, Douglas Wayne, Winnipeg, MB Ungrin, Cecilia A., Richmond, BC November 2018 Bartlette, Karen I., Invermere, BC Flom, Thelma S. Winnipeg, MB Glenesk, A. Lorraine, Sanford, MB Hersak, Arnold T., Calgary, AB Hooper, Brenda Joyce, Courtenay, BC Kelbert, Sheila Gail, Minitonas, MB

Kirkwood, Dorothy, P., Winnipeg, MB Lehn, Carolyn Catherine, Winnipeg, MB Loney, Diana Geraldine M., Winnipeg, MB Martin, Astros H.E., Winnipeg, MB McFadden, Thomas Dale, Minnedosa, MB Miller, Alan R., Gimli, MB Pallister, Harley G., Brandon, MB Pruden, Doreen, Winnipeg, MB Roberts, Kathleen, Brandon, MB Suderman, Peter James, Winnipeg Sweetland, Andrea Lorraine, Eriksdale, MB Todd, Patricia Aileen, Winnipeg, MB Wiebe, Gerhard, Winnipeg, MB Zubrycki, Vernon Joseph, Winnipeg, MB December 2018 Brown, Dorothy M., Melita, MB Dyck, Dorothy Margaret, Steinbach, MB Dyrkacz, John W., Dauphin, MB Hales, Lorna June, Brandon, MB Maharaj, Dyanand Gangadhar, Winnipeg, MB Mercredi, Joseph Alexander, Nelson House, MB Moger, Alice A., Neepawa, MB Mohr, Marguerite Anne, Winnipeg, MB Pennell, Charlotte, Winnipeg, MB Phillips, Nina C., Ottawa, ON Polcyn, Charles Jacob, Winnipeg, MB Rakowski, Lydia H., Winnipeg, MB Spooner, Sheila Mae, Winnipeg, MB Taft, Katharine Purvis, Glenboro, MB Tesarski, Thomas, Alexander, MB Webb, Robert J., Winnipeg, MB

RTAM.MB.CA n 27

A Focus On The Long-Term Sustainability Of Your TRAF Pension Plan

A

“Special Edition Newsletter Focused on Sustainability” is now available.

Inside its pages, you’ll find an overview of the plan’s funding and account structure, and an assessment of the longterm financial outlook of the plan. Whether you’re early or mid-career, or approaching or enjoying retirement, it’s important to understand the financial outlook of your pension plan.

Access the “Special Edition Newsletter Focused on Sustainability” on our website at www.traf.mb.ca and contact TRAF if you have any further questions.  TEACHERS' RETIREMENT ALLOWANCES FUND Johnston Terminal, 330-25 Forks Market Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3C 4S8 (204) 949-0048 / (800) 782-0714 info@traf.mb.ca / www.traf.mb.ca

28 n RTAM KIT Spring 2018

Teacher And Students Together Again Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers Of Manitoba 14th Annual Reunion - July 12, 2018 Text by Theresa Antoniuk (with some revisions) by Ed Arndt. Photos courtesy of Theresa Antoniuk and Ed Arndt

O

n July 12, 2018, some 52 permit teachers, guests and former students registered for the 14th Annual Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba Reunion at The Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg, MB. Building on the former years of success, the theme of the Reunion was once again, “Teachers and Students Together Again.” Former students and permit teachers were invited to attend.

The Registration Table was opened at 10:00 a.m. Welcoming guests to the reunion were Edith Alexiuk (Registrar), Karen Boughton, Vera McCallum and Lavone Lesperance-Caron. The attendees received a program evaluation sheet, pen and note pad, color coded meal tickets and door prize tickets. Andy Alexiuk, Ed Arndt and Ralph Trombo were the official “Wal-Mart Greeters” and greeted the guest as they arrived to register.

Before the program officially began, committee member, Karen Boughton, handed out an “Icebreaker” activity featuring towns and cities in Manitoba which challenged and kept the guests occupied until “The Call to Order."

Reunion Committee Chair, Theresa Antoniuk, called the attendees to order using an old fashioned school hand bell (very appropriate) which brought back a flood of memories to those attending. She called upon teacher, Marlene Anderson, to introduce her former two students, Irene Coleman and Shirley Walker. (It should be noted at this point while committee member, Vera McAllum was not officially introduced she was also a former student attending-guest of Ed Arndt, her former teacher in 1959-60 at Tartakiw School.)

The Guest Speaker, Sergeant Shawn Lowry, head of the Winnipeg Police Canine Unit, did a power point presentation and explanation regarding explosives. Shawn brought his lead dog, “ Nero,” to search for explosives. Fortunately,

The 2017-2018 Reunion Committee of the Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba. B.R. L-R: Andy Alexiuk, Ralph Trombo, Karen Boughton, Mel Bodnarus (Treasurer), Bill Badiuk (Vice Chair), Lavone Lesperance-Caron. F.R. L-R: Edith Alexiuk (Registrar), Wally Stoyko, Ed Arndt (Secretary), Vera Lesiuk McCullum (student representative), Margaret Lesperance.

at this meeting of retired teachers, he could find no explosives! Committee Member, Bill Badiuk, thanked Sergeant Lowry for the interesting presentation. Although “Nero” had an important role to play as a Member of the Police Force, as he is also a great ambassador for his profession and he spent a lot of time “chatting” with the teacher!

Sergeant Lowry was presented with a toke of appreciation by Bill Badiuk.

Before the luncheon, Committee Member, Karen Boughton, presented an “In Memoriam” followed by “Grace.”

Following a delicious lunch prepared by and served by the courteous and pleasant staff of the Viscount Gort Hotel, chairperson, Theresa Antoniuk, gave special recognition to several people attending. On behalf of the 14th Reunion Committee, Theresa thanked and honored Dr. Louisa Loeb (who was present at this Reunion) for starting the reunion 14 years ago.

Whenever Dr. Loeb (due to deteriorating health) could no longer chair or participate, she always made a point of attending the reunions chaired by other chairpersons. The Committee Next page RTAM.MB.CA n 29

kept in touch with her by sending the minutes of the meetings At the l4th Reunion, Chairperson, Theresa Antoniuk, honoured Dr. Loeb with a corsage. Gerald Loeb, Dr. Louisa’s son, spoke about his mother. Gerald always brought his mother to the reunions. He graciously thanked the committee for carrying on his mother’s legacy.

Special recognition was given to Artha Anderson from Libau, MB, who was the first person to register for the reunion. Also acknowledged for special recognition was Marlene Anderson who travelled the furthest to attend this reunion. Marlene came from Delta, BC. Both Artha and Marlene were recognized with a small gift, presented by the chairperson.

Committee Member, Mel Bodnarus, introduced Leo Gosselin who entertained the guests with the Grand Stick, a unique musical instrument.

Leo played a variety of music in Latin. Jazz, pop, western and others. Mel presented an honorarium

to Leo in appreciation of his wonderful entertaining music.

“Memories of Permit Teaching Years” (open mic), were moderated by Wally Stoyko and Mel Bodnarus. This provided an opportunity for attendees to share their humourous stories of their experiences while teaching in the rural oneroom schools.

Treasurer, Mel Bodnarus, presented a Financial Report summarizing the year’s financial activities.

Our thanks are extended to the many generous donors who donated the door prizes which were presented by Wally Stoyko.

The same Reunion Committee will remain to plan the 15th Final Reunion” scheduled for July 11, 2019 at the Viscount Gort Hotel. If you taught on permit and would like to attend, please phone Edith Alexiuk at 204-256-6484 and request a registration form. 

Your RTAM KIT is now mobile-readable!

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

Not available for non-RTAM members.

30 n RTAM KIT Spring 2019

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS 60th MTC Reunion

Date: June 6, 2019, 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Registration Deadline: April 15, 2019 Location: Canadian Mennonite University (former Teachers' College) Event Description: 9:00 a.m.sign in and breakfast at Pancake House, 2220 McGillivray Blvd., followed by either a city tour or visit to the zoo. Dinner at 1:30 p.m. in the Great Hall at CMU. Visiting and reminiscing afterwards.

Contact Information: Emily Williamson, 204-837-5668, emiwill@mts.net or Bert Suss, 204-326-9470, blsuss1@gmail.com

In celebration of the 40th year of the EnglishUkrainian Bilingual Program (EUBP) The Osvita Foundation has announced this year's testimonial banquet will be honouring

The Past and Present Teachers of the English-Ukrainian Bilingual Program Friday, May 24, 2019 at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights We are trying to reach all teachers who have taught in the EUBP in Manitoba, since 1979. We would like to identify these Ukrainian language teachers to be recognized and their contributions acknowledged at the event.

Teachers can send us your contact information by visiting: www.mpue.ca and click the link “Osvita Honours EUBP Teachers” fill in their name, school(s), years taught and email address. Any questions or want ticket information? Email: mpueinc@mpue.ca

WE MEET AGAIN – JUNE 5, 2019

FINAL REUNION / DR. LOUISA LOEB Permit Teacher's of Manitoba 15th and Final Annual Reunion Viscount Gort Hotel 1670 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba Thursday, July 11, 2019 09:30 - 3:30 pm Guest and former students welcome For further information, contact Edith Alexiuk 204-256-6484 Half-Time Employment Opportunity

Club Director, Zig Zag Yacht Club, Clearwater Bay, ON ZZYC runs summer events & family programming on Fisheman's Island in Lake of the Woods, Ontario.

Seeking a lead employee for the Club, responsible for administration, operations, and employee oversight (hiring by April 30th). The Club Director will work part-time, independently in winter, and full-time on-site in summer (July/August). The Club is well equipped and can provide the necessary tools & accommodations for a person with the needed skill set. (eg. Boat, Systems, Living Quarters, Business experts, etc.). A teaching/coaching background would be a strong asset. For more info about ZZYC visit www.zzyc.ca. To apply or inquire, email Michelle Williams at michybaz@gmail.com.

Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!

The Normal School Class of 54-55 is celebrating 64 years on June 5, 2019.

We hope you will join us at the HOLIDAY INN WEST, 2520 PORTAGE AVE. 10:30 am to 5:00 pm to reminisce good times. To get more information or to register please contact: Bev Smith, 204-452-0413, grandi2012@shaw.ca or Irene Huska – 204-489 4871, huskami1@shaw.ca

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

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

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

For Rent

For Sale By Owner

Furnished beach house on Vancouver Island for rent Off season rates available 250-248-3446 kapitt@shaw.ca

FOR SALE: RCI Time Share, Las Vegas, sleeps 8 abaca_007@yahoo.ca

RTAM.MB.CA n 31

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

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

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

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

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

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

GROUP BENEFITS

RTAM sponsors pre-retirement seminars for teachers.

Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc. (“Johnson”) and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia. Johnson is a licensed insurance intermediary. RTAM Plans are administered by Johnson Inc. Premier Travel, Health and Dental are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security. Travel Insurance and Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Insurance are underwritten by RSA Canada. Home insurance is available through Johnson Inc. a licensed insurance intermediary. Policies are primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company. Eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions may apply. 0459_19