KIT Magazine - Spring 2020

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 31 | No. 4 | Spring 2020 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

2020

Annual General Meeting of the

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

Tuesday, May 5, 2020 PRE-AGM ACTIVITIES

PN 40037581

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Johnson Inc. Presentation 5:30 p.m................Cocktails 6:00 p.m................Dinner 7:00 - 9:00 p.m......Program

Wednesday, May 6, 2020 AGM

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..AGM 11:30 a.m.....................Website Tour Noon - 1:00 p.m...........Lunch (Buffet) 1:00 p.m.......................Elections 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.............Trip Merchant

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 31 No.4 • Spring, 2020

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

Neepawa Area Retired Teachers Association (NARTA)

CONTENTS 2020 Annual General Meeting Forms................................................................................... 5 - 9 AGM Committee.....................................................................................................................................10 Wellness Advocacy Committee.......................................................................................................11 Bylaws and Policy Committee........................................................................................................ 12 RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant.........................................................................................................14 The Uninhabitable Earth, Life After Warming......................................................................... 15 Support Your Relative’s Student Award Application: Student Success Portfolios.............................................................................................................. 17 The Public Relations Committee meets Brie!.........................................................................18 Our Personal Wellness........................................................................................................................18 Christmas Celebration .......................................................................................................................19 A Little Island of Freedom................................................................................................................20 Report On Wills, Power Of Attorney, Health Directive To Help Prevent Elder Abuse Seminar....................................................22 New General Secretary Appointed..............................................................................................22 Retired Women Teachers' Association.......................................................................................23 NARTA Goes to the Reptile Gardens........................................................................................... 24 RTAM Okanagan Chapter...................................................................................................................25 Senior Centre Without Walls............................................................................................................25 Gordon Fardoe....................................................................................................................................... 26

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 204-889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: info@rtam.mb.ca • www.rtam.mb.ca Editor-in-Chief: Doreen Sage Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Email: dsage@mymts.net Executive Director: Gordon Fardoe Email: gfardoe@rtam.mb.ca Office Administrator: Denise Bellesia Email: dbellesia@rtam.mb.ca Board of Directors 2019-2020 President: Peggy Prendergast Vice -President: JoAnne Hoyak Secretary: John Sushelnitsky Treasurer: Pat Bowslaugh Past President: Joan Dawson Directors-at-Large Linda Blair Bill Cann Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen Alison Logan Ken Malcolm Brian Paterson Doreen Sage Linda Scott Beth Smith

Johnson Benefits - New Rates...................................................................................................... 26 The Schoolmasters’ Wives Association.....................................................................................27 Thank you, Nicole................................................................................................................................. 28 RTAM Photo Contest Rules.............................................................................................................. 29 RTAM Winter 2020 Photo Contest............................................................................................... 29 Official Entry and Release Form................................................................................................... 29 NOTICES & COMING EVENTS..........................................................................................................30 RTAM KIT Print Stats............................................................................................................................30

Design: Gayl Punzalan Creative Director, Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images : freepik.com and pixabay.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2020 by RTAM

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by May 13, 2020, 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 2020

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

T Peggy Prendergast RTAM President 2019-2020

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

he bitter cold of this winter has been hard on some of us living here in the city this winter, but nothing compared to those of us living here in the RTAM office where we have been living the perfect storm.

The Officers have gone through the process of hiring a new Executive Director, Gordon Fardoe, whom you will be introduced to in this edition of KIT. The calm returned as the RTAM Board welcomed him and started to receive the benefit of his experience and skills learned in his former employment.

A month or so later, Nicole Welwood, the Member Services Coordinator, decided to leave us to follow her path to becoming a CPA. We miss her warm welcoming personality amongst us and the services she provided but wish him well in her new journey, as I am sure most of you do. Again, short staffed, we are in the process of hiring. We are thankful to our Office Administrator, Denise Bellesia, who worked hard to fill the gap and support our new Executive Director. Please bear with us as we move forward with all our new staff.

As you follow the news in this edition of KIT, you will see that I had a wonderful Christmas luncheon with the Portage la Prairie Chapter that was filled with Christmas cheer amongst friends and former colleagues. It was held one day in early December on a day following and during a snowfall so I experienced a highway drive similar to the one many of you that live in Manitoba’s rural area experience in your everyday life. This province we live in offers the RTAM membership, as well as the rest of the older adult population in our province, many different societal

challenges of transportation, health, ageism, and other aspects of healthy ageing.

Two RTAM Board members, I and John Sushelnitsky, are members of the Manitoba Seniors' Coalition. It began in 2016 and has continued to advocate for the needs of the older adult population. Although I have mentioned this previously, I would like again to refer you to www.lifestyles55. ca , www.get yourbenefits.ca, and the RTAM website, www.rtam.mb.ca., to become aware of the many ways older adults are providing advocacy for our wide variety of needs, but also to let the world know of the many ways we, as a group, volunteer to support each other and the people in our society that are less fortunate than ourselves. In the centre pages of the free monthly newspaper, Lifestyles 55, you will read about the RTAM organization and our work to support our members. Other not-for profit organizations that are part of this Coalition also write 500 word messages advocating for specific needs. On the member driven nostalgic CJNU radio station, 93.7 on your FM dial or if you are not in the range of this station, at 725 on your MTS TV, at 10:37 a.m. and 3:37 p.m. you will hear 90 second interview radio clips with a retired teacher volunteer announcer, Grant Paterson, on “Coffee With Connie,” highlighting the reason some of these organizations exist.

You will find the RTAM committees are hard at work with all of us working to achieve the objectives we set for ourselves in the RTAM Strategic Plan. In our quest to become a Governance Board, the Officers have Next page → RTAM.MB.CA n 3

President's Message . . . continued from previous page engaged a consultant to help us become more effective as leaders of a Board that can work with an Executive Director and staff that support committees as they engage in the regular work of the pillars of the Strategic Plan. The website is evolving, KIT is informing you of committee and chapter endeavours, we are informing the world of the vast amount of volunteering retired teachers are providing to their communities and neighbourhoods.

New initiatives to help meet some of our member’s needs and wishes include our venture with Trip Merchant. Stay tuned to our website: www.rtam.mb.ca as this partnership unfolds.

Many of our members include travel in their lifestyle. Based on the experience of other retired teacher provincial organizations, we think this will be a partnership supporting many of our members.

As you will also see in this issue of KIT, the Bylaws and Policy Committee has done extensive work to update our documents. This work will be ongoing as, to become a Governance Board, there needs to be policies in place for staff and committees to follow to coordinate the work and follow privacy, financial, accessible and Human Rights legislation, to name a few.

One added piece of good news. The Retired Teachers' Endowment Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation is able, this provincial 150th birthday year, to offer four $1000 awards. Applications for those of you who wish to sponsor one of your grade 12 graduating relatives are found in this KIT and on the website.

I caution all of you to be extraordinarily cautious with your emails and do not comply to any request for money, your social insurance number, your password or to pay the CRA, to name a few, before checking directly with the person apparently asking for help, either by phone or face to face.

Banks, CRA, Bell MTS (telephone), will not ask you for personal information by email or telephone. If ever you are in doubt about an email, don’t open the email or call and confirm the request is legitimate.

However, if you make a mistake and send money, no matter how badly you feel, phone the police and check with the bank or credit card company that issued the funds. They have a process to help and often money is forthcoming. These fraudulent people are professional and skilled at what they do. They are also relentless in what they do. Last Tuesday, I had three calls on the phone and an email with authentic looking letterhead from MTS asking for my email address and password or else my account would be closed because I had too many saved emails. I took the time to call MTS and have a serious technician tell me that the company would never initiate a call or email to solicit that information.

RTAM’s AGM is in Winnipeg this year at the Holiday Inn West on Portage Avenue on May 6 and 7. The AGM Committee with the support of the RWTA Chapter, is planning an enjoyable Tuesday evening, an important election and providing an AGM for important RTAM decision making to take place.

Please come to AGM and support the work of your organization. I look forward to seeing you there. §

Opportunity!

RTAM is looking for a Rural Chapter to host the 2021 AGM. Please consider showcasing your Chapter and community by hosting this AGM. If your Chapter is interested in hosting the 2021 RTAM AGM Meeting, please phone 1-888-393-8082 toll free or (204) 889-3660, or email office@rtam. mb.ca. It would be helpful to receive your expression of interest.

4 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2020

May 5 - 6, 2020

Retired Women Teachers' Association (RWTA) invites all RTAM members to Winnipeg, Manitoba, for the RTAM AGM, 2020.

2020 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Registration Form

WEDNESDAY MAY 6, 2020 Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West, 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB 204-885-4478, 1-800-665-0352 (toll-free) ALL RTAM MEMBERS ARE INVITED AND ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND Advance Registration Fee, if received on or before April 10, 2020: $15.00 Registration Fee, if received after April 10, 2020: $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 5 and the AGM (lunch included) on May 6. REGISTRANTS MUST MAKE THEIR OWN HOTEL RESERVATIONS. The Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West is offering a reduced rate for reservations made on or before April 10, 2020. Refer to Reservation Group Code R5A. PLEASE PRINT. Name: Address: (include postal code)

Email:

Phone:

Date

Tuesday May 5

Event & Time

Refer to Agenda for complete details

Attending

Guest

(Y or N)

(Y or N)

Advance Registration Fee

Registration Fee After April 10

$15.00*

$25.00*

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

Cocktails 5:30 p.m.

Dinner 6:00 p.m.

Program 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 pm

Wednesday AGM May 6 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Website Tour - 11:30 Lunch (Buffet) - Noon - 1:00 p.m.

Trip Merchant - 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.

*

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.

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 29, 2020.

This form may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca RTAM.MB.CA n 5

2020 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Call For Nominations

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2020 Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West, Winnipeg, Manitoba

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 2020 – 2021 RTAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS Nominations for the Officers and Board of Directors of RTAM will be accepted up to and including Friday April 10, 2020 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 (no longer than a half page) and photo to be included in the AGM Elections booklet no later than April 17, 2020, to office@rtam.mb.ca The positions open to election on May 6, 2020, are: OFFICERS: President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer APPOINTED: Past President (Not elected) DIRECTORS: Up to 10 Directors may be elected Nomination Process: Nominations will be received by the Elections Committee up to 3:00 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2020 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 2020

2020 Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

2020 -2021 RTAM Board Nomination Form MAY 6, 2020 Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West, Winnipeg, Manitoba

2020 -2021 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 10, 2020, 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 17, 2020, 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 10, 2020.

There will be a meeting of the newly elected board from 9:00 a.m. to noon on Thursday, May 10, 2020 at the RTAM Office, 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB _____________________________________________________________________________________________ This form may be copied or downloaded from www.rtam.mb.ca.

RTAM.MB.CA n 7

2020 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, and May after the AGM. 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:

Indicate below which of the Committee(s) you are interested in as a Member and/or Chair Member Chair COMMITTEE COMMITTEE ü ü AGM & Elections

Political Advocacy

Benefits

Public Relations

Bylaws and Policy

Website

Keep In Touch (KIT) Magazine

Wellness Advocacy & Student Awards

Member ü

Chair ü

Membership & Chapters Pension 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 Friday, June 1, 2020.

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

8 n

RTAM KIT Spring 2020

2020 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 5, 2020, 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: Peggy Prendergast, 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 26, 2020.

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

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

COMMITTEE REPORTS

AGM Committee

Joan Dawson, Chair, AGM Committee

T

he AGM committee is hard at work planning the 2020 RTAM AGM. RTAM members can look forward to a well-planned event with many interesting reports, an election of Officers and Directors, Policy motions to consider and time to reconnect with old friends and meet new friends during the more social events in the program. The Retired Women Teachers' Association committee

TO ALL RETIRED TEACHERS FROM: PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE:

A

s educators with great memories from parents and grandparents, we have an incredible collective recollection about our classrooms over the past decades. This would be a great time for us to record a few of our favourite memories…why I went into teaching…the time in Grade 8 that I got caught…

Public Relations is considering compiling such a small inexpensive book, as our contribution to Manitoba 150.

Just write down your best story, email it to office@rtam.mb.ca labelling it “Vignettes”, You could also mail it to our office, or hand deliver to our AGM May 6,7. We have chosen this deadline to accommodate our snowbirds. §

10 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

L to R is Gordon Fardoe, Pat Opalko, Emily Williamson, Laurel McFarlane, Arlene Billeck, & Bill Cann. Missing: Lynda Tunny.

Front row: Peggy Prendergast and Joan Dawson.

members have chosen the theme: Manitoba’s Birthday 150. We hope that you keep May 6, 2020, on your radar as you make your spring plans. We would like to have a great turnout of RTAM members to celebrate RTAM’s accomplishments and provide direction for the future. Please join us on May 6, 2020. §

Wellness Advocacy Committee Linda Blair, Chair, Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards Committee Chair

SAFETY FOR SENIORS SEMINAR When: March 10, 2020; 12:30 - 3:30 P.M. Where: Manitoba Teachers' Society Building Registration payment will be received starting at 12:30 p.m. with seminar presentation to start at 1:00 p.m.

This presentation is open to RTAM members and their guests. Cost is $10 per member and $15 per guest. Please preregister by calling RTAM Office at 204-889-3660 by Thursday, March 6, 2020.

HEART & STROKE WEBINAR AND VICTORIA LIFELINE PRESENTATION When: March 20, 2020; 12:30 -3:30 P.M. / Where: RTAM Boardroom The webinar is from Heart & Stroke: Heart & Stroke has released its 2019 Report called (Dis)connected: How unseen links are putting us at risk. The Report, for the first time, examines the complex connections that link heart conditions, stroke and vascular cognitive impairment. By analyzing available data and published studies, as well as interviews with patients and families and consumer polling, we have found many strong associations between these conditions, the challenges faced by and impact on the people experiencing them, and how the health system supports them through their journeys.

The presentation is from Vicki Russenholt of Victoria Lifeline: Vicki from Victoria Lifeline will be presenting “successful aging”, this presentation will be beneficial for individuals who may be facing some health challenges (of any age), live alone or caring for a loved one. Education and being proactive is key to our wellness, only 30% of how well we age is based on genetics, the rest is lifestyle. Two things that will help you age successfully are healthy living and knowing what “tools” are in your tool kit & be willing to use them when you need them.

She will provide examples of many “tools” that are available, one of them being Victoria Lifeline.

Registration will be limited to first 25 members who phone RTAM office at 204-889-3660. Registration payment will be received starting at 12:30 p.m. with presentation to start at 1 p.m. Cost is $10 per member.

RTAM.MB.CA n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Bylaws and Policy Committee Prepared by Beth Smith, Chair, Bylaws and Policy Committee

1.

Motions for the 2020 AGM

amended to read: Shall publicize events sponsored by RTAM with prior consultation with the Committee(s) responsible for the event.

A. Bylaw Motions: nil

Rationale: this will assist in cooperation between committees.

B. Policy Motions: a)

Policy 5.05 The Elections Process

e)

Revise k) to read: After the ballots are counted, any candidate may request the number of votes he or she that that candidate received.

Rationale: This brings this policy into compliance with pronoun elimination. b)

Policy 7.01 Duties of the Board

Rationale: Adding the words “economic and social” falls within RTAM’s mandate. f)

That Policy 7.01 Duties of the Board be amended by adding new c) and d) as follows: c) Respecting the privacy of our members and staff is a basic value of RTAM. In the course of their duties, Board and Committee members may be made aware of information of such nature that the use or release of that information, in any fashion other than that authorized by the Board, may cause damage or injury to RTAM, the Board, the provider of the information, or a third party. Therefore, annually all Board and Committee members shall sign a pledge of confidentiality.

c)

Policy 8.05 Treasurer

Rationale: This revision to policy would allow the Political Advocacy Committee to be forward thinking and get permission from the Board before taking any action. g)

11.03 (9) Other Costs Revise as follows: An Allowance or reimbursement of actual costs may be approved by the President where such costs are incurred by the Board or Committee Members in the course of conducting RTAM business Change to read: Invoices presented for payment, which are outside the parameters of the budget, shall be honoured when there is a motion from the RTAM Board to cover the same.

Rationale: This policy is consistent with Policy 8.05 d) Treasurer.

h)

Respectful Workplace Policy This is a new policy.

Add a new d) and renumber accordingly.

Respectful Workplace Policy

d) Invoices presented for payment, which are outside the parameters of the budget, shall be honoured when there is a motion from the RTAM Board to cover the same.

RTAM affirms its commitment to maintain a safe and respectful working environment that is free from harassment and at all times supports the dignity and self-esteem of individuals.

Rationale: This policy is missing from our Policy Manual and if not included leaves the Treasurer in a vulnerable position. d)

In Policy 9.07 (8) Political Advocacy Committee change 9.07 (8) c) by inserting “Initiate” before Plan, delete “if so directed by the Board.” and add “on emergent and emerging issues with the approval of the Board”.

9.07 (8) c) would then read: Initiate, plan and organize advocacy, if so directed by the Board, on emergent and emerging issues with the approval of the Board.

d) Though Board members are expected to act as ambassadors for RTAM with members and Chapters, they shall not disclose matters of a confidential nature, personnel information pertaining to staff or consultant(s) hired by the Board any discussion from Board meetings or discussion or decisions from in camera sessions of the Board. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information is a serious violation of this policy and will subject those who made the unauthorized disclosure to appropriate consequences including removal from the Board and/or its Committees.

Rationale: Respecting the privacy of our members and staff, and of RTAM itself is a basic value of The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba.

In Policy 9.07 (8) Political Advocacy b) insert “economic and social” after the word “political”. 9,07 (8) b) would then read: Monitor political, economic and social issues and advise the President and/or the Board on emerging issues relevant to RTAM.

In Policy 9.07 (4) (ii) Public Relations Sub-Committee The Public Relations Sub-Committee recommended that Policy 9.07 (4) (ii) b) be amended to read: Shall publicize events sponsored by RTAM with consultation from the Committee(s) responsible for the event.

The Committee recommends that 9.07 (4) (ii) b) be

12 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

Harassment, bullying or disrespectful treatment will not be tolerated and may even be considered grounds for suspension or dismissal. An employee or member, who believes they are being harassed, bullied or treated disrespectfully by a person in a position of authority, or by a co-worker, or by a member, or by any other person affiliated with RTAM should report the incident immediately, following the procedures set forth below.

This policy is not intended to apply to cases of suspected child abuse.

Child abuse situations are governed by Child Welfare and must be referred directly to Child and Family Services.

Next page ➔

COMMITTEE REPORTS As well, RTAM commits to ensuring that all of its employees and Board members learn about and understand this policy.

vi) unwanted questions or comments about one’s private life

I. Definition

vii) unwanted physical contact, such as brushing up against one’s body, patting or pinching

Consistent with the Manitoba Human Rights Code, Harassment is defined as: a) A course of abusive and unwelcome conduct or comment directly related to the following: i) ancestry, including colour and perceived race; ii) nationality or national origin; iii) ethnic background or origin; iv) religion or creed, or religious belief, religious association or religious activity; v) age; vi) sex, including sex-determined characteristics or circumstances such as pregnancy, the possibility of pregnancy, or circumstances related to pregnancy; vii) gender-identity; viii) sexual orientation; ix) marital or family status; x) source of income; xi) political belief, political association or political activity; xii) physical or mental disability or related characteristics or circumstances, including reliance on a dog guide or other animal assistant, a wheelchair, or any other remedial appliance or device; xiii) social disadvantage. b) A series of objectionable and unwelcome sexual solicitations or advances; or c) A sexual solicitation or advance made by a person who is in a position to confer any benefit on, or deny any benefit to, the recipient of the solicitation or advance, if the person making the solicitation or advance knows or ought reasonably to know that it is unwelcome; or d) Sexually oriented behaviour or remarks which create a negative psychological environment.

Such behaviour or remarks include, but are not restricted to: i) demeaning remarks based on gender ii) suggestive jokes about sex iii) inappropriate comments about clothing, physical characteristics or activities iv) inappropriate displays of sexual pictures or materials v) leering, ogling, or suggestive or insulting sounds

viii) sexual assault (an offence under the Criminal Code); or e) A reprisal or threat of reprisal for rejecting a sexual solicitation or advance; or f) In addition to the behaviours defined in the Manitoba Human Rights Code RTAM also recognizes: i) a course of abusive and unwelcome conduct or comment undertaken or made on the basis of physical size or weight, medical circumstances or illness as harassment; and ii) retaliation against an individual who: a. invokes the policy; or b. participates or cooperates in an investigation under the policy; or c. associates with a person who invokes the policy or participates the complaint procedure under the policy.

II. Bullying and Disrespectful Behaviour RTAM believes that bullying can be a serious problem that when occurring, requires prompt and accurate intervention. For that reason, bullying has been included in this policy. Complaints involving bullying of staff and/or Board members and/or members will be addressed according to the procedures outlined in this policy.

Bullying is defined as unfair and one-sided aggression towards another person and may include physical, verbal, social, or written aggression (including electronic communication such as social media, text messaging and email), isolation or intimidation. It often involves an imbalance of power and strength and results in the target person feeling humiliated and/or distressed. Bullies generally hurt, threaten, and/or frighten others in a repetitive, intentional way. However, severe objectionable conduct that adversely affects a person’s psychological or physical well-being will be considered harassment whether it happens once or more than once.

Disrespectful behavior towards others is also contrary to the values and objectives of RTAM. Employees, Board members and members are expected to treat every other employee, Board member, member and visitor in a respectful manner such that their behavior would set an example of appropriate conduct for others. Examples of disrespectful behavior could include swearing, yelling, name calling, gossiping, reprimanding in the presence of others, the improper use of power or authority inherent in one’s position, offensive or inappropriate remarks, gestures, behavior or displays of material. Where an employee is subject to disrespectful behavior, every effort should be made to resolve the issue directly with the other party first. Where this has not resolved the problem, the employee/Board member/member should submit a complaint in accordance with this policy and include reference to the informal efforts previously made. Reasonable actions by supervisors to manage, guide or direct employees/Board members/members or the workplace are not harassment. Appropriate employee performance reviews, counseling and disciplinary or corrective action taken towards an employee is not harassment.

Next page ➔ RTAM.MB.CA n 13

Bylaws and Policy Committee . . . continued from previous page III. Complaint Procedure Any person who believes that they are, or any person who witnesses another person being harassed, bullied, or treated disrespectfully within the definitions as just outlined, should act promptly in order to resolve the situation by using the following procedures: a) Complaints are to be made in writing directly to the Executive Director of RTAM, or if a complaint involves the Executive Director or a member of Board and the employee/Board member/member prefers, a complaint may be made in writing directly to the President of RTAM. In either case, the President of RTAM shall advise the Board that a complaint has been filed. The President will contract with an independent investigator. A complaint must be filed within one month of the circumstances giving rise to the complaint, unless the delay was incurred in good faith and no substantial prejudice will result to any person affected by the delay. b) Once the written complaint is received, an immediate and confidential investigation will be made by the designated contact. Both the complainant and the person against whom the complaint was made will be contacted. c) The designated contact will endeavour to resolve the matter and in doing so shall: i) Assume responsibility for investigating all such complaints to the highest level of confidentiality possible by sharing the minimum amount of information from the written complaint required to perform a thorough investigation. At no time will personal health information be shared with the person against whom the complaint has been lodged. ii) If necessary, take steps to ensure that there is no recurrence of the situation while the investigation is in progress. iii) Take appropriate disciplinary action where such is found to be warranted.

it was done willfully or maliciously, disciplinary action will be taken against the complainant.

Note: this policy is not intended to discourage or prevent the complainant from exercising any other legal rights including the right to file a complaint with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

IV. Consequences of Policy Violation Where it is found that a violation of the policy has occurred, the Board of Directors of RTAM may take action including, but not restricted to, the following: a) Disciplinary Action Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken to redress the situation which could include immediate dismissal or notification that continuation or repetition of conduct found to be in violation of this policy will be cause for further disciplinary action up to and including dismissal; and/or b) Disciplinary Directive A directive from the RTAM Board which specifies certain behaviour with which the party(ies) must comply. If the directive is disregarded, further action will be taken; and/or c) Dismissal of employee; and/or d) Removal of member from membership in RTAM; and/or d) Notification of the appropriate authorities.

V. Confidentiality All records, documents, notes and transcripts of an investigation shall remain confidential. Parties to a complaint are advised to refrain from discussing the complaint with anyone else.

iv) Inform the complainant and the person against whom the complaint has been lodged of the outcome of the investigation. v) If through the investigation, the designated administrator finds that there were no grounds for the complaint and that

RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant Does your Chapter want to plan an activity OR fund a project for Manitoba 150? Apply for a $250 Chapter Initiative Grant prior to April 15, 2020.

Here's the link with all the information: https://www.rtam.mb.ca/chapters/chapter-initiative-grants

RTAM.MB.CA | 204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082

14 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

Rationale: Adoption of this policy will provide a respectful workplace for the Board, RTAM staff and members.

In Memoriam

Life Members

August 2019 John R. Wozny, Edmonton, AB

November 2019 Audrey Borody, Winnipeg, MB Joan Cairns, Winnipeg, MB Hilda E. Comrie, Minnedosa, MB Laverne Fraser, Elizabeth Town, ON Dorothy Gowanlock, Winnipeg, MB Salome Sarah Hiebert, Winnipeg, MB Victor Janzen, Steinbach, MB Edward W. Kustra, Gimli, MB J. Mabel McMunn, Brandon, MB

September 2019 Randolph Richard Loeb, East St. Paul, MB October 2019 Raymond L. Bisson, Winnipeg, MB June M. Bowerman, Azilda, ON Victoria Ellchuk, Winnipeg, MB Edwin M. Fedak, Brandon, MB Gustaf H. Finnson, Gimli, MB Elin Hood, Okotoks, AB Peter Isaak, Winnipeg, MB Harry Koshel, The Pas, MB Peter Anthony Kowalyk, Winnipeg, MB Elfriede Krebs, Kelowna, BC Eldon Kroeker, Winnipeg, MB Doreen Langdon, Winnipeg, MB Olafur Allan Olson, Gimli, MB Anne Reimer, Stuartburn, MB Richard John Skarban, Narol, MB Sharon Lynn Wilde, Winnipeg, MB November 2019 Lawrence George Argue, Winnipeg, MB E. Clarice Brown, Portage la Prairie, MB Christine M. Burrows, Winnipeg, MB Jui Cheng Chen, The Pas, MB Vera M. Derenchuk, Winnipeg, MB Elizabeth M. Finnson, Gimli, MB A. Ruth Grant, Brandon, MB J. Gordon Grist, Winnipeg, MB

Edward Hildebrand, Lorrette, MB Verda Estella Jackson, Russell, MB Beverly Alberta Kristalovich, Winnipeg, MB John J. McDonald, Winnipeg, MB Marie-Anne L. Mundy, Corpus Christi, TX Clemente Ignacio Rohde, Winnipeg, MB Arie Jacob Rylaarsdam, Selkirk, MB Frank Sawatzky, Steinbach, MB Gudrun B. Sigurdson, Riverton, MB Abram Thiessen, Winnipeg, MB Joyce Vandershaaf, Benito, MB December 2019 Edward Arndt, Virden, MB James C. Balness, Winnipeg, MB Hazen Wendell Barrett, Brandon, MB Irene E. Belanger, Nanaimo, BC Ivy I. Campbell, Roblin, MB Harold D. Christie, Winnipeg, MB Robert A. Dale, Kitchener, ON John R. Devine, Winnipeg, MB Fred Victor Futros, Maple Ridge, BC Jarvis W. Korchak, Winnipeg, MB Karen Durnan Kyle, Owen Sound, ON Diane Sandra Minaker, Winnipeg, MB Marie H. Neufeld, Portage la Prairie, MB Hjordis Overgaard, Winnipeg, MB Inga A. Palson, Arborg, MB Roland A. Robert, Winnipeg, MB Ralph Sotolov, Winnipeg, MB Edwin Karol Tuchonowski, Winnipeg, MB Margaret L. Wilkie, Brandon, MB

(Presented at age 90 to RTAM members)

December 2019 Melvin S. Belluk, Winnipeg, MB Laura Evelyn Downey, Winnipeg, MB Frank L. Gustaw, Riverton, MB Iona M. Pople, Portage la Prairie Ruth M. Schroeder, Winnipeg, MB Helen Woychyshyn, Minnedosa, MB January 2020 William Ingleson, Surrey, BC Elisabeth Krueger, Winnipeg, MB Margaret Peters, Winnipeg, MB

The Uninhabitable Earth, Life After Warming

By David Wallace-Wells A Book Review by Willard Anderson

T

he Uninhabitable Earth, Life After Warming by David Wallace-Wells, Tim Dugan Books, New York, a book that has already been compared to Silent Spring. Printed in 2019, loaded with hard information, which is extremely relevant today, epecially for the young. Only 220 pages and reads easily, what we only think we know is clarified in aces here. See reviews on Google. § RTAM.MB.CA n 15

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 $1,000 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 2020 APPLICATIONS IS JULY 31, 2020 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

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

SUPPORT YOUR RELATIVE’S STUDENT AWARD APPLICATION:

Student Success Portfolios Linda Blair, Joan Dawson, Beth Smith and Joan Zaretsky

Background In 2013 the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba established a permanent student award endowment fund of $50,000 with the Winnipeg foundation. Four post-secondary student awards of $500.00 were awarded initially from the RTAM Endowment Fund.

For 2019, four awards of $850.00 were awarded from the revenue generated by this fund.

Criteria for Student Award Application • • • •

The recipient must be: A relative of a RTAM member.

Involved in school and community activities.

A Grade 12 graduate.

Entering the first year of a post-secondary education program.

Student Success Portfolios The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) would like to assist your grandchildren, nieces and nephews and other relatives in their successful application for our annual Student Award Program. We are offering information for students to prepare “Student Success Portfolios” to encourage them to collect their mementos and

documents starting in Grade 9 to support them in the development of their Student Award application.

The development of a portfolio would support students, not only in applying for our Student Awards, but for other scholarships and bursaries as it helps the student to collectively organize all their accomplishments over their four years of high school.

A portfolio is more than a concrete product. The portfolio development process enables students to become active and thoughtful learners about their own personal growth and skills. Portfolios are the windows into a student’s successes over time.

If you have a relative you believe would be a candidate for the RTAM Student Award when they complete their high school education, you can get them thinking about their many skills and talents to build their own Student Success Portfolio. We believe this RTAM contribution to the preparation of the Student Award applications will facilitate your relative and add to their own self-reflection as they review what they have accomplished during their high school years.

Check for information on building a “Student Success Portfolio” on the RTAM website www.rtam.mb.ca. §

RTAM.MB.CA n 17

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The Public Relations Committee meets Brie!

Guy Hansen, Chair, Public Relations

The Public Relations Committee finally meets Brie Phillips and her faculty advisor through Skype. First time Skyping: John Sushelnitsky, Peggy Prendergast, Gordon Fardoe, Guy Hansen, Helene Beauchemin.

B

rie Phillips was raised in a border town just West of Flin Flon. She is currently enrolled in The Pas Campus of UCN and is studying to become a teacher. Brie was our first recipient of RTAM’s bursary specifically for Indigenous students.

One of Brie’s assignments was published online. It was a story Brie’s grand mother had told her.

Brie’s grand mother was born in Winnipeg, lived just west of Flin Flon with her husband from The Pas. Grand mother had told Brie about all beings and their connection to the earth, as well as to each other. Brie wrote this story down, titled it quite appropriately “ROOTS."

Her book has wisdom from an earlier time, including direct quotes from her grand mother herself.

The book is beautifully written and selfillustrated. It fits so well with both our Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and our celebration of MANITOBA150.

Public Relations is interested in publishing this book and gifting it to every school in Manitoba. As of this writing, we have gone so far as applying for a grant from Manitoba’s Indigenous and Northern Initiatives Fund (we’re waiting}.To this effect, we also met with Brie on Skype. Peggy and Gordon attended, along with the PR committee. §

Our Personal Wellness Linda Blair, Chair, Wellness Advocacy Committee

A

t an event entitled A Conversation on Women's Heart and Brain Health on February 11, I had the priviledge of hearing Dr. Olga Toleva, an award winning International Cardiologist, speak about her research in heart health, especially women's heart health. Women have the same heart health concerns as men However, our heart attacks can look different.

Patti Le Blanc spoke of her personal experience with her heart attack. She felt a heavy pressure on her chest as well as a very sore jaw. Fortunately, she was seen by Dr.Toleva. A very quick and precise diagnosis was made from the tests done.

Ladies, we need to learn from others' experiences.

First, focus on doing one thing at a time.

18 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

Multitasking is NOT something to strive for and/ or be proud of as this practice is hard on our heart.

Secondly, focus on taking care of yourself. We are very good at taking care of others. Now, remember to take the time to care for yourself. Thirdly, we need to support one another. That support helps with the quality of our recovery.

Gentlemen, we need your suppport, too.

Reminders to look after ourselves is something many of us need.

To learn more about heart health, be sure to phone the RTAM Office to reserve your spot at our March 20 event, as this event is limited to the first 25 people who call. Hope to see you there. §

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Christmas Celebration

RTAM Board of Directors and Staff Joan Dawson for PR Committee

T

he RTAM Board of Directors and staff held their annual Christmas celebration again this year. Due to the cancellation of the December meeting, the event was held January 14, 2020, the day before the January Board meeting.

The traditional Christmas buffet with all of the trimmings was held at the Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West. The food was delicious and the company was great. Music was provided by John Sushelnitsky, JoAnne Hoyak and Julian Hoyak.

They performed a number of favourite rock songs

and encouraged us all to sing along. Their music was most appreciated. Pat Bowslaugh had us all participate in a Christmas game. It was a lovely evening where the directors got to meet each other’s spouses and learn more about each other in a setting other than the RTAM office. Seeing each other in a different light makes for a better understanding of each other and promotes a more collegial atmosphere while dealing with the many issues that concern RTAM members. It was a wonderful evening. §

RTAM.MB.CA n 19

COMMITTEE REPORTS

A Little Island of Freedom

A Conversation with Dr. John R. Wiens John Sushelnitsky, Chair, Political Advocacy

F

ollowing are excerpts from an interview with Dr. John R. Wiens, Dean Emeritus at the University of Manitoba. He has been a lifelong educator, serving as a teacher, counsellor, work education co-ordinator, principal, school superintendent and university professor. He spoke with the RTAM Political Advocacy Committee on November 21, 2019.

When the RTAM Board gave the Political Advocacy Committee the task of monitoring developments in the Government’s K-12 Education Review, a sub-committee was set up to do so. In its research, the sub-committee became aware of a series of op-ed articles written for the Winnipeg Free Press by Dr. Wiens. The PA Committee invited Dr. Wiens to share his viewpoints on the government review. The opinions and viewpoints expressed are Mr. Wiens’ and we thank him for his candor and a very enlightening and engaging presentation. His views are food for thought, but do not express any official RTAM position at this time.

On Manitoba: We are “a little island of freedom in education” in Canada because we have never had a labor disruption and we have an unusual amount of local authority. Teachers gave up the right to strike in favour of arbitration. Today, some politicians are pushing us in the direction of labour unrest because of their desire for more control and power; fewer bargaining units and less democracy with fewer school divisions, ie. less dissent.

On decision-making: With Indigenous councils, I have sat through three-hour meetings that would take us fifteen minutes but at the end of it people present have all convinced themselves that there is a decision because everyone has had equal opportunity to speak. They may have said what others have said, but they have said it out loud, and there is something about doing that which is really 20 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

powerful. If you say it, you are “on board.” That is what I think consultation means to Indigenous peoples.

On dissent: Don’t worry about the fact that people will try to use your stuff for their own purposes. Governments will try to say to our organizations, ”Well, you don’t represent, because there are a couple of dissenting voices in the group. That is exactly where the MTS and MASS seem to be at the present; they have sentenced themselves to silence because they are trying to bring some dissenting voices on side, and it’s not going to happen. They have made themselves increasingly ineffective because governments know that not all members agree and some just seem to be afraid for their futures, and governments use this knowledge to their advantage to reduce dissent.

On negotiations : The negotiation table is one of the few places where we can legitimately, as teachers, get into conversations about things that are important to us.

That is one of the most important parts of collective bargaining. That is where you can put on the table things that are important to you and they have to be heard.

On political ideology: The political scene right now hammers us with the idea that you have to choose sides. I refuse to do that on a partisan basis. How do I not choose sides?

I focus on education, children and young people and democratic participation. There are consequences to choosing sides. If one is automatically expected to choose a position before going into a dialogue with someone, there can be no open discussion or reasonable disagreement, both of which are necessary to democracy.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The essence of freedom of speech is that you should keep your mouth shut unless you have a thoughtful contribution to make.

– John Wiens

On freedom of speech: The essence of freedom of speech is that you should keep your mouth shut unless you have a thoughtful contribution to make. Some people focus on the right rather than why we think freedom of speech is important, the content of what you have to say.

On Winnipeg School Divisions: If we look at Toronto, we see basically one big school division and, if we want to talk about systems where decisions are usually made far from where they are to be implemented, it is representative. So, I would say generally that we are better off with small enough school divisions where people have an opportunity to interact responsibly and responsively. But, I think that we can almost bet that Winnipeg School Divisions will disappear in its present form. The rumour is that the rivers will decide the boundaries, and that there will be four divisions in Winnipeg. On the other hand, I think this government is quite unsure with what to do with southern Manitoba, and rightfully so, as we do not need large systems to educate people and we are still feeling the reverberations of the last amalgamation.

Here are some recommendations Dr. Wiens made in his submission to the K-12 Review Commission:

That Government 1.

2.

commit to the public purposes of education and public schools, and their role in renewing democracy; encourage the school system,to explore and organize visitations, student exchanges and inter-school collaboration, such as professional development opportunities

John Wiens

between public schools and First Nation Schools and school systems; 3. do further study of cradle-to-grave educational tracking and the role of parents, caregivers, teachers and students in its implementation; 4. initiate negotiations with faculties of education, school divisions, First Nations and MTS, MSBA and MASS, to introduce and implement teacher education internship and residency programs in rural, northern and First Nation communities; 5. develop an annual report on education, including the Ministry of Education’s activities of the past year and plans and priorities for the next year, and rationale for same; 6. reaffirm the importance of the role of local school boards in the governance of the public school system in Manitoba; 7. re-create the inter-organizational advisory committee on education finance with expanded representation to regularly review the education funding regime; 8. undertake an in-depth review of taxation policies and practices; and, 9. renew its commitment to education as an investment and to the pursuit of reducing unwarrantable inequities. § RTAM.MB.CA n 21

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Report On Wills, Power Of Attorney, Health Directive To Help Prevent Elder Abuse Seminar Linda Blair, Chair of Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards Committee

O

n February 13, the RTAM Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards committee hosted a Seminar entitled Wills, Power of Attorney, Health Directive to help prevent Elder Abuse presented by Sharon Tod. The 22 attendees enjoyed the presentation. Each person obtained a folder with a copy of the power point presentation as well as a copy of the Get Your Benefits booklet and the Emergency Response Information Kit {E.R.I.K}. §

New General Secretary Appointed MTS President James Bedford announced today that Dr. Danielle Fullan Kolton has accepted the position of General Secretary of The Manitoba Teachers’ Society, effective June 1st, 2020.

Prior to joining the staff of MTS, Fullan Kolton’s career included that of school principal, education consultant and university instructor.

Fullan Kolton joined the MTS staff in 2013 as an education research analyst and shortly thereafter became a staff officer. She went on to become the department head of Professional and French Language Services and for the past year has been acting in the role of Assistant General Secretary.

“I’m delighted to welcome Danielle to her new role and look forward to working with her on behalf of our 16,000 members province-wide,” said Bedford.

“Please join me in congratulating Danielle and wishing her every success as she transitions to this new challenge.” §

RTAM POLO SHIRT If you are attending the AGM in Winnipeg in May, this is a great opportunity to purchase a RTAM polo shirt for the same price as last year: $33.35 (includes tax). Send a cheque for the above amount 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. Experience from last year advises to choose one size larger than you normally wear. The ordering deadline is March 31. John will have the polo shirt ready for your pickup at the AGM in Winnipeg.

22 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers' Association Pat Opalko, RWTA President, photos by Helen Norrie, publicity chair

T

he Retired Women Teachers' Association, a chapter of RTAM, celebrated the winter season with a Christmas themed luncheon on December 12, 2019, at the Masonic Centre in Winnipeg. We were entertained by the a cappella

women's group "True Harmony." Judging by these photos, their beautiful voices and choice of music certainly put 165 members and friends who attended in the Christmas spirit. §

RTAM.MB.CA n 23

CHAPTER REPORTS

NARTA Goes to the Reptile Gardens Betty Rink, President, NARTA

T

wenty-five members of the NARTA group had their Christmas Get Together at the Arts Forward Building in Neepawa. We enjoyed our usual full Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, which was locally catered.

Some of the members entertained with a typical country school Christmas Concert item in which a farmer returning from a winter holiday was met at the train station by his hired man. What followed was truly hilarious.

The members and guests also enjoyed participating in Christmas Season focussed games. A time of fellowship was enjoyed by all.

In September, the NARTA members and guests enjoyed a full day excursion to three extremely interesting locations in the Brandon area. The tour started with a guided tour of the Royal Canadian

Artillery Museum in Shilo. One could spend an entire day at this museum because of the wealth of information and displays on Canada's military history.

Lunch was enjoyed at the Shilo Golf Course.

Our next stop was the Reptile Garden in the Douglas area. Featured were numerous varieties of full grown crocodiles, alligators and tropical snakes.

Finally, we made a much enjoyed visit to the Doll Museum where the owner kindly gave us a guided tour of her fascinating collection of historic china dolls. She also spoke on the process of making as well as restoring these dolls. Truly a specialized artisan experience.

Late afternoon tea concluded the day at Shady Lane Tea House. Nature provided us with a gorgeous fall day. §

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM Okanagan Chapter Submitted by Nancy Kostiuk, photos by Lorna Rothwell

Lorne Lisik addressing our members and guests

A

well-attended festive Christmas luncheon was held at Wings Restaurant in West Kelowna on Tuesday, December 10, 2019.

Members and guests enjoyed a friendly afternoon get-together. The emceeing was ably handled by

Lorne Lisik as he supervised the drawing for the door prize and monitored the gift exchange. The group donated a total of $150 for the local food bank.

Lorna Rothwell provided the photo. §

Senior Centre Without Walls

S

enior Centre Without Walls through A & O: (Age and Opportunity) Support Services for Older Adults offers free educational and recreational programs over the phone. The program reaches out to socially isolated older adults 55+ living in Manitoba. Individuals and groups are welcome. There is no cost to register. We will call participants and join them into the programs.

Please view our current Program Guide on the following link on our website: http://bluetilde.ca/3 In our guide you will find the following topics plus a whole lot more!

• Welcome to Senior Centre Without Walls!

• Frauds & Scams and Personal Safety (Winnipeg Police Service) • Moccasin Making • A Grassroots Response to Climate Change: Rainwater Harvesting • Interesting Manitobans: Women in Blues – Stone Soup Jam

Lydia Robertson, Program Assistant at A&O

• Health and Wellness Presentations: Cancer Screening Explained, Psychology Month and Nutrition Month • Lessons: Spanish Express • Travelogues: Nigeria, Israel, Amazon and B.C. • Music Therapy, Art Therapy and Meditation • Celebrity Bingo and Fun and Games • Book Clubs, Short Stories, Poetry (read aloud) • Observances & Celebrations: Purim, St. Patrick’s Day, April Fool’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Leap Day Please let us know if you would like to have copies of the guide or posters (front page of guide) mailed to you. Call 204-956-6440. Please note that the number of copies may be limited. Thank you for helping us get the word out about this program to older adults across the province!

PLEASE NOTE: We will not be filling any previously requested standing orders for each new term; so, please email a new request. Thank you. §

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

Gordon Fardoe

RTAM Executive Director Peggy Prendergast, RTAM President

O

n behalf of the Board, I am pleased to welcome Gordon Fardoe as the new Executive Director for the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba. In conducting our search, the Board of Directors listened carefully to wishes of the membership, board and staff, and we are confident we have a great fit for this position.

Gordon brings over twenty five years’ experience from the not for profit world.

Gordon has served as Executive Director for Deer Lodge Centre Foundation, The Certified Technologists and Technicians of Manitoba and the Red River College Students’ Association, Gordon has provided administrative services to MusikBarock Ensemble, the Gilbert & Sullivan Society of Winnipeg and the Manitoba Naturalists Society. Gordon has been the Chair of the Masonic

Foundation of Manitoba, LITE (Local Investment Towards Employment). Gordon has served on many Boards including the Red River College Board of Governors, the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce and Folklorama’s Pavilion of Scotland.

Gordon is also a private piano and voice teacher, has performed all over the province and is a very active Freemason.

Gordon looks forward to working collaboratively with the membership, staff and the Board. His strengths in programming, capacity building, governance, human resources, foundation promotion and fundraising, strategic planning, and managing diverse challenges will help us achieve our mission. Please join us in welcoming him to this amazing organization! §

Johnson Benefits - New Rates Your RTAM Benefits Committee, along with your Plan Administrator Johnson Insurance, have completed the annual group insurance renewal negotiations for your RTAM Prestige Travel, Extended Health and Dental Plans.

We are pleased to announce some exciting changes to your Group Benefits effective April 1, 2020:

1. No change in monthly premium for 2020 policy year

Extended Health Care: CORE EHC PLAN MONTHLY RATES

2. NEW Additional coverage of $100 per insured per

policy year for vaccination under Core Extended Health Drug Plan

1. Monthly premiums will increase by 0.6% for the 2020

Dental: DENTAL PLAN MONTHLY RATES

policy year

2. Annual maximum of $1,100 per insured increased to $1,200 per insured per policy year

Prestige Travel:

1. Annual premiums will increase by 2.9% for the 2020

BASE PLAN DISCOUNT OPTIONS Please note: only one discount option can be selected

2. Addition of 93-day consecutive Base Plan, includes the

Opt Out of Trip Cancellation, Interruption and Delay benefits

20% discount

$1,000 Deductible per Claim $5,000 Deductible per Claim

20% discount 45% discount

policy year

same coverage as the 62-consective Base Plan

Those members who currently have the 62-day Base Plan coverage will remain on the Plan at reissue (April 1, 2020).

For those who would like to change coverage to the 93-day Base Plan, you must contact Johnson Insurance by phone (1.877.989.2600 Option #2) or by email (pbservicewest@johnson.ca).

RTAM KIT1, Spring 2020that is either 62 or 93 consecutive days outside of Canada, (depending on your plan selection) insured 26 n As of April 2020 travel members must return to their province or territory for at least 24 hours before departing on another trip.

The Schoolmasters’ Wives Association

Front row from left: Jean Klasz, Margaret McPherson, Bernice Flood, Viola Pelletier, Dorothy Bilash.

Standing from left: Fay Alward, Helen Currie, Irene Huska, Mary Louise Zorniak, Evelyn Smith, Rosrmary Schur, Lois Green, Gail Farough, Joan Shume

Joan Shume

I

n 1954, a group of ladies whose husbands were educators (Schoolmasters) met informally on several occasions to discuss the possibility of organizing a teachers wives’ association for all areas in the city. These women were interested in community service work, educational concerns, social opportunities and camaraderie.

Arrangements were made to hold a general first meeting on January 31, 1955, in the Free Press Board Room on Carlton Street. Over 80 replies were received after an advertisement was posted. Keen evidence of support was shown when 75 women braved minus 30 degree weather and climbed a long flight of stairs to attend. That evening, “The Winnipeg Schoolmasters Wives’ Association” was launched.

Membership grew most rapidly in the 1960’s and 70’s. One of their most important goals was to provide scholarships for students with high scholastic achievement and promising teaching qualities. The first scholarship of $100 was awarded in the year 1958-59. This has grown to three $1000 scholarships being awarded yearly. Scholarships were funded by projects such as coffee, dinner and card parties, teas, and craft sales. One big fund raiser was a SMWA cookbook, Treats for Teachers.

In 1978 the fund, with The Winnipeg Foundation, as the administrator of the trust, established scholarships to be awarded in perpetuity. From 1958 to 2018 one hundred and fifty-four scholarships have been awarded for a total of $74,900.

Our continued interest in education resulted in one of the most ambitious undertakings of the organization: "Seminar ‘75 Dilemmas in Modern Education,” a contribution to celebrate International Womens’ Year. Three key-note speakers, a panel discussion, an audiovisual presentation and a collage and a television interview were features of the seminar.

The organization’s project and social activity groups (bowling, bridge, crafts, gourmet dinners and a book club) cemented our participation and friendships in the Schoolmasters’ Wives Association through the years.

On December 31, 2018, after 63 years of activity, the members felt it was time to bring the Association to a close, due to declining membership. The scholarship plan has been established in The Winnipeg Foundation and interested persons may contribute to it as a gift, bequest or memorial. This fund is the lasting legacy of the The Schoolmasters’ Wives Association to deserving students in the Faculty of Education. § RTAM.MB.CA n 27

RTAM

Photography CONTEST KIT Editorial Committee WINTER 2020 PHOTO CONTEST The two categories are: • I Am Ready For My Close-up: Take a picture of something 14 centimetres or less and make it look big.

• Black and White Photography: Indoors or outdoors, any subject but no human faces.

Judging by Gayl Punzalan, Creative Director of Blue Ink Media Full contest rules and entry forms available at www.rtam.mb.ca and at the RTAM office.

All entries to be sent by mail, email, or delivered to RTAM no later than 4:00 p.m., April 3, 2020.

Thank you, Nicole Gordon Fardoe, RTAM Executive Director

I

t is with a mix of sadness and gratitude the RTAM office announces Nicole Welwood departure as Membership Services Coordinator of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba, effective January 31, 2020.

Nicole has taken a position which aligns with her current education and goals of becoming a Certified Public Accountant.

Over the last three years Nicole has provided

28 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

excellent customer service to the members and great support to the Board and volunteers of RTAM. Again, we cannot thank Nicole enough for the dedication, passion, enthusiasm and motivation she has given the association over the past three years. Nicole will be greatly missed by the staff, Board, volunteers and members alike. We want to wish her all the best as Nicole moves forward in her education and new career. §

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RTAM Winter 2020 Photo Contest Official Entry and Release Form

A copy of this form must be completed for each entry submitted to the photo contest. Photos cannot be entered into more than one category. Complete Photo Contest Rules are posted on the RTAM Website (see below).

NAME ADDRESS CITY

PROVINCE

POSTAL CODE

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE Please check:

❏ I Am Ready For My Close-Up

❏ Black and White Photography

Take a picture of something 14 centimeters or less and make it look big.

Indoors or outdoors, any subject, but no human faces.

By submitting my entry to the RTAM Photo Contest, I hereby grant permission to the Retired Teachers’ Association (RTAM) to use/edit/reuse my photograph in any and all of its publications and on its website. I understand that there is no time limit on the validity of this release. I confirm that I am a member in good standing of RTAM and I agree to abide by the Photo Contest rules as set forth by RTAM and posted on the RTAM website (https://rtam.mb.ca).

By signing this release form, I acknowledge that I have completely read and understand what this permission signifies.

ENTRY DEADLINE

Name in Print / Signature / Date Signed

April 3, 2020 at 4:00 P.M.

RTAM Photo Contest Rules Submission Requirements: Print Entries: • All entries sent must have an image which is no smaller than 5” x 7” or larger than 12” x 12”. Square formatted images will be accepted provided that they are not smaller than 7” x 7” or larger than 12” x 12”. Panoramic photos will not be accepted.

• Matted or framed photos will not be accepted.

• Photo titles are mandatory, must be written on the back of prints and match the title on the Contest Official Entry Form.

Electronic Entries: • Electronic photos can also be submitted. The covering email or file name must include the photo title which must match the title on the Contest Official Entry Form. Electronic photos will be printed by RTAM for judging purposes.

Please read the full contest rules at https://rtam.mb.ca/index. php/rtam-kit/photo-contest-rules or at http://bluetilde.ca/2

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba Spring 2020 KIT – Printing Statistics

RTAM KIT Print Stats KIT COUNT CALCULATION-SPRING 2020

RTAM Members at January 31, 2020 Less Deletions Due to: One Per Household Subscription Cancelled Upon Request/Other Online Only NET RTAM Member Mailout Total Plus Complimentary Copies: Honorary Life Member Other Provincial RTA's, Political Parties, MTS, etc.

Local School Division Teacher Associations Manitoba Public School Divisions & Schools Funded Independent Schools TOTAL KITS FOR MAILOUT TOTAL KITS FOR PRINTING (round to next 100) RTAM Membership Stats- January 31, 2020 TRAF-Winnipeg TRAF-Non-Winnipeg Total TRAF Members Non-TRAF Members Total RTAM Members Life Members included in the Total RTAM Members TRAF Non-TRAF Total Life Members

10,056 515 127 83 1 38 40 702 62

(725) 9,331

843 10,174 10,200

5,129 4,684 9,813 243 10,056 221 22 243

Prepared by, Nicole Welwood, Member Services Coordinator

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS McCreary Homecoming July 31-August 2, 2020 Former teachers and students of McCreary School are invited to attend a Tea at the school, Saturday, August, 2020, in the afternoon. School tours will be available.

Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!

PNS Class of 1955-56

A Class Luncheon is planned for Thursday, June 11th 2020 If interested in attending e-mail Normalschool56@mymts.net Or write: PNS 1955-56 314-895 Wilkes Avenue, Winnipeg MB R3P 1B8

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

Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960

Caregiving With Confidence

A 60th Reunion for Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960 is being planned for July 2020. We are looking for the following former teachers or classmates: Linda Lucht, Miss Ishenburg, Chester Johnson, Heather Hepworth, Miss Oberck, Miss Connor, Joe Segal, Colleen McCann, Mrs. Cartwright, Bob Sutton, Wallace Linton And Don Suderman. Please contact Willa Keith at willakeith3319@icloud.com or at (204) 745-2714.

Winnipeg Normal School Class of '54

Hold the Date: Friday, September 17, 2021, 11:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. at Canad Inn Polo Park, Winnipeg Celebrating 67th Reunion. This will be the 12th Reunion for this class. For further information contact: Mary Starodub, Winnipeg: 204-889-6046 Morris Demkiw, Winnipeg: 204-832-5413. Also watch KIT for further information. - Mary and Morris 30 n RTAM KIT Spring 2020

Caregiving with Confidence is a non-profit agency that provides support and resources to informal and family caregivers. We are in urgent need of volunteer drivers for our Ring-A-Ride program. Many older adults experience a loss of independence due to the inability to drive. Our volunteers help clients maintain their self sufficiency by providing transportation and support, to and from their appointments. If you would like to help older adults in your community and you enjoy driving, this is the opportunity for you! We offer driver orientation, flexible schedules, and an honorarium for every ride that is completed, to offset your costs.

For more information, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at cwc@aosupportservices.ca or call our office at 204-452-9491. An application form is also available at http://caregivingwithconfidence.org/ volunteer-opportunities/

K IT I S N O

W MOBILE-R

YOUR RT A

M

DABLE EA RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 31 | No. 4 | Spring 2020 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

2020

Annual General Meeting

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 31 | No. 4 | Spring 2020 Vol. 31 | No. 4 | Spring 2020

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 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

of the

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

2020

Annual General Meeting

2020

PN 40037581

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Johnson Inc. Presentation 5:30 p.m................Cocktails 6:00 p.m................Dinner 7:00 - 9:00 p.m......Program

Annual General Meeting RETIRED TEACHERS’ of the

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

AGM

Holiday Inn Winnipeg – Airport West 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..AGM

Tuesday, May 5, 2020 PRE-AGM ACTIVITIES

of theWednesday, May 6, 2020 AGM

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

11:30 a.m.....................Website Tour

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Johnson Inc. Presentation

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

PN 40037581

PRE-AGM ACTIVITIES

3:30 - 4:00 p.m.............Trip Merchant

5:30 p.m................Cocktails 6:00 p.m................Dinner 7:00 - 9:00 p.m......Program

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..AGM

11:30 a.m.....................Website Tour Noon - 1:00 p.m...........Lunch (Buffet) 1:00 p.m.......................Elections

Holiday Inn Winnipeg3:30– -Airport West 4:00 p.m.............Trip Merchant 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

Tuesday, May 5, 2020 PRE-AGM ACTIVITIES

3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Johnson Inc. Presentation

PN 40037581

Tuesday, May 5, 2020

5:30 p.m................Cocktails 6:00 p.m................Dinner 7:00 - 9:00 p.m......Program

Wednesday, May 6, 2020 AGM

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m..AGM 11:30 a.m.....................Website Tour Noon - 1:00 p.m...........Lunch (Buffet) 1:00 p.m.......................Elections 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.............Trip Merchant

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.

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 options.

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

Prestige 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., a licensed insurance intermediary, and operates as Johnson Inc. in MB. Johnson administers the EHC Plan and the options for Prestige Travel and Dental Care (“Options”). The EHC Plan and Dental Care Option are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security (“DFS”). Coverage under the EHC Plan is subject to proof of enrolment in the applicable Provincial Pharmacare program. Prestige Travel Insurance is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada (“RSA”).

Valid provincial/territorial health plan coverage required. Johnson and RSA share common ownership. Travel assistance is provided by Global Excel. Eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions may apply and/or may vary by province/territory. 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.

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