KIT Magazine - Summer 2017

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 29 | No. 1 | Summer 2017 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 1-204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | info@rtam.mb.ca | www.rtam.mb.ca

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST WINNERS Categories: Pets, Canada

Submitted by Judy Olmstead

Submitted by Judy Olmstead

RUNNER U P

PN 40037581

Submitted by Jayesh Maniar

RUNNER U P Submitted by Jacinthe Ramsay

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 29 No. 1 • Summer, 2017

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

The RTAM chapter presidents

Contents President’s Message............................................................................ 03 Book Review: Polio Child..................................................................... 04 RTAM Photography Contest................................................................. 05 AGM Reports...................................................................................... 07 2017 RTAM Distinguished Service Award Winners ............................... 13 New RTAM Directors for 2017-2018.................................................... 14 Directors Leaving the RTAM Board....................................................... 14 2017 AGM Financial Summary Report.................................................. 15 RTAM Pre-Retirement Seminars........................................................... 15 Keep Your Home Protected While You’re Away..................................... 20 So Request It....................................................................................... 22 RTAM T-Shirt....................................................................................... 22 Thank You, Vaughn!............................................................................ 23 Calgary Chapter Report....................................................................... 23 WREA Celebrates 25 Years as an RTAM Chapter.................................. 24 Retired Women Teachers’ Association Report....................................... 25 Put Patients First................................................................................. 26 Join the Associates of the Winnipeg Art Gallery.................................... 26 Stepping Up to the Plate..................................................................... 27 Letter to the Editor.............................................................................. 28 Memories............................................................................................ 29 In Memoriam...................................................................................... 30 Life Members...................................................................................... 30 Notices & Coming Events.................................................................... 31

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RTAM KIT Summer 2017

206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 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: Mary-Anne Slegers Member Services Coordinator: Nicole Welwood Board of Directors 2017-2018 President: Rosalie Bornn Vice -President: JoAnne Hoyak Secretary: Joan Dawson Treasurer: Carol Pelton Past President: Vacant Directors-at-Large Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen Guy Lacroix Alison Logan Ken Malcolm Judy Olmstead Peggy Prendergast Doreen Sage Ray Sitter Beth Smith Wally Stoyko John Sushelnitsky Design: Gayl Punzalan Creative Director, Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images : freepik.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2017 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 Rosalie Bornn RTAM President 2017-2018

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

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s I complete this post-AGM 2017 report for KIT, in our cabin area there are fish in the lake and morel mushrooms in the woods to interfere with my concentration, but first things first – Sincere appreciation is extended to Ed Richenhaller, President of the Swan Valley Retired Teachers and his trusty committee for their assistance with the planning and the hosting of the well-attended rural 2017 Annual General Meeting of RTAM held in Swam River, MB. All RTAM members and guests in attendance were treated to some terrific Swan Valley hospitality.

AGM 2017 was a bit of a project for our organization. After several years of receiving the suggestion to do so in feedback from previous AGMs, RTAM followed through with securing the services of an independent chairperson to support the flow of the business meeting.

Thank you to RTAM member, Dorothy Young for her meticulous planning and supportive direction while acting as independent chair. We learned a great deal from this process and will use the meeting feedback from participants to determine whether the experiment will become a more permanent practice for RTAM in the future.

At AGM 2017, most of our Board of Directors sought re-affirmation to their Director positions. In addition, we welcome aboard two additional Directors, new Director Alison Logan of Winnipeg and returning former Director, Judy Olmstead of Brandon. We also bid farewell to three departing Directors, Bill Cann, Vel McAdam and Wayne Hughes, and extend our sincere appreciation for their collective years of dedicated service to the RTAM Board and its membership. The RTAM Board may according to the Bylaws, have a total of between twelve and twenty serving Director members. Additional appointments can yet be made, should the need arise.

The morning immediately following the AGM, a short Board organizational meeting was held in Swan River. The next meeting of the Board on June 14 will see the appointment of our committee membership for the operational year. We look forward to following through with our Strategic Planning initiative to set short, mid and long range goals for both decision-making and the operation of our growing and maturing RTAM organization.

In this issue of KIT, an edited version of the AGM Committee Continued on page 6

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

Book Review:

Polio Child F ew of recent generations would remember the fear called polio that once gripped the world.

One might have seen the odd, pinched circle of a polio vaccination scar on a relative, but equate it with other childhood vaccinations such as those against measles and mumps.

In reading Polio Child, Carol Rankmore’s memoir of living through and with the aftereffects of the disease, one may truly understand the debilitating effects polio would have had on someone, and to this day still does.

At age 4 Carol became one of the first patients at the Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children in Winnipeg, where an operation was meant to repair the muscle causing her right foot to turn inwards. Every three months afterwards had a return trip to the hospital for check-ups, or lengthy stays for operations and recoveries, enduring strange procedures and separations from her family. While Carol lived polio-free from her teenage years to retirement, Post-Polio Syndrome now grips her.

Ms. Rankmore writes with a gentle, selfdeprecating tone that does not invite pity but rather empathy, leaving one with the desire to hold her tightly by the hand. Her memoir is peppered with chapters that provide factual overviews: of the disease and its history, the Shriners Hospital

By Carol Rankmore

from its inception and later evolution, the success of Salk’s and Sabin’s vaccines, and of Post-Polio Syndrome.

However the recollections that filter through the check-ups and operations are highly detailed memories of growing up in the fifties in Manitoba. It is this child’s perspective, Available in Winnipeg at McNally Robinson Bookstore, in Brandon at along with her adult Coles Bookstore. discussion of the psychological effects of enduring polio and its treatments, and her candor about her own current and determined battle with Post-Polio Syndrome that make her story so compelling. Polio is a subject that might leave one cold, but Polio Child by Carol Rankmore is a memoir of exceptional warmth and fortitude. n Robyn Godfrey Outreach and Collections Librarian Stratford Public Library 19 St. Andrew St. Stratford, ON

RTAM Student Award Application Form may be downloaded from: https://goo.gl/f6Bnvw

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RTAM KIT Summer 2017

RTAM

Photography

CONTEST

Summer 2017 Photo Contest The KIT editorial committee announces a photo contest.

The two categories are: • Canada Day: Any picture taken on Canada Day which shows what Canada means to Canadians.

• Autumn Foliage: Any plants or trees showing autumn colours.

All entries to be sent by mail, email or hand delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m. November 8, 2017.

Full contest rules and entry forms are available in KIT or at the RTAM office.

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Summer 2017 Photo Contest Rules

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ENTRY DEADLINE: 3:00 p.m. NOVEMBER 8, 2017 ›› Full and Associate RTAM members, in good standing, may submit two photos for each category. ›› Judging by Gayl Punzalan, managing partner of Blue Ink Media ›› Winners will be announced in the Winter 2017 edition of KIT, as well as posted on the RTAM website.

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RULES

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1. Each photo can be entered in one of the following

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categories: • Canada Day: Any picture taken on Canada Day which shows what Canada means to Canadians.

• Autumn Foliage: Any plants or trees showing autumn colours.

2. Entries submitted by postal service, courier or hand delivered to the RTAM office at 206-1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3H 1B5 must be submitted no later than 3 p.m. on November 8, 2017 3. All these 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”.

4. Entries must be backed with rigid backing no thinner than file folder stock.

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Matted or framed photos will not be accepted.

Electronic entries will also be accepted. They will be printed by the Photo Contest committee. Send these entries to office@ rtam.mb.ca no later than November 8, 2017.Please include all the information needed to identify your photos so that the entry forms can be attached to them. The signed entry form for each electronic entry must be submitted by postal service, courier or hand delivered to the RTAM office by the entry deadline. The entry forms will be attached at the RTAM office.

Participants are limited to two photos per category.

Each entry must be the work of the participant.

Entries must not include any recognizable individual’s faces in the photos.

Entries must not have been previously judged in any other photography competition.

Only entries with a copy of the official entry form ATTACHED TO THE BACK OF THE ENTRY will be accepted. Since the entry form is detached from the back during the judging process, attach the form using a bit of tape only. DO NOT GLUE the form to the back of the photo.

Entries will not be returned. Should you require the return of your entries, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope of the appropriate size with your entry or include a note requesting a call from the RTAM office to arrange for pick-up from the RTAM office.

RTAM retains the right to use the entries for promotional purposes during and after the competition.

One first prize and one second prize will be awarded in each category.

First prize will be $25. Second prize will be $15.

All prizes will be accepted as awarded.

Entry Forms can be downloaded at www.rtam.mb.ca.

Entries must be received at the RTAM office no later than 3:00 p.m. on November 8, 2017.

RTAM Winter 2017 Photo Contest 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Questions? Please call 204-889-3660, 1-888-393-8082 (toll-free) or email office@rtam.mb.ca

ENTRY FORM ON PAGE 6 RTAM.MB.CA n 5

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA (RTAM)

Summer 2017 Photo Contest Official Entry Form A copy of this form must be attached to the back of each entry submitted by mail or filled in, signed by photographer and mailed to the RTAM office where it will be attached to the emailed photo PLEASE PRINT

ADDRESS

POSTAL CODE

PHONE

EMAIL

CATEGORY ❏ Canada ❏ Autumn

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE: (optional)

DECLARATION I agree to abide by the RTAM SUMMER 2017 PHOTO CONTEST RULES as set forth by RTAM and posted on www.rtam.mb.ca. and in KIT. I also agree that RTAM and its officers, directors, and employees shall not be liable, without limitations, for any claims based on publicity rights, defamation or invasion of privacy. I also confirm that I am a member in good standing of RTAM. I confirm that all information given by me in connection to the photography contest is true and correct.

SIGNATURE __________________________________________ DATE________________________ All entries to be sent by postal service, courier or hand delivered to: RTAM SUMMER 2017 Photo Contest 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Or emailed to: office@rtam.mb.ca ENTRY DEADLINE: 3:00 p.m., NOVEMBER 8, 2017

President’s Message (continued from page 3)

Reports is printed, along with the policy and financial motions that were put forward at the AGM. The complete Committee and Chapter Reports and Minutes of the 2017 AGM, posted for information, will also appear on the RTAM website for those interested members.

At the RTAM Office, we are currently in the process of re-defining our staffing needs so that

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RTAM KIT Summer 2017

for continuity purposes, a full-time staff member will work Monday to Friday in complement with our half-time Executive Director position.

In closing, I wish all readers a pleasant and healthy summer 2017, along with the opportunity to participate in some memorable Canada 150 celebrations! n

THIS FORM MAY BE PHOTOCOPIED.

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AGM 2017 REPORTS

AGM 2017 Reports The reports which follow have been condensed from the original reports submitted to the AGM Assembly. The complete versions of the reports are available on the RTAM website at www.rtam.mb.ca.

President’s Report Respectfully submitted by Rosalie Bornn (Dauphin) As the 2016-17 RTAM year draws to a close, I want to acknowledge the challenge, responsibility and privilege that it has been to serve both the membership and organization as President. This year has been active, productive and exciting.

Our part-time Executive Director, Mary-Anne Slegers has held this relatively new position throughout a complete RTAM year. There have been some bumps in the road as well as welcome acceptance and relief, as we flex to embrace changes in policy and practice. We are currently in the process of re-structuring our additional staff coverage to the office in order to better serve both the membership and the organization.

I urge you to read and study all of the reports to better understand the extent of the work that has been accomplished throughout the year.

There are some RTAM matters that I will personally comment on: • RTAM hosted a successful Meet and Greet event at the Legislative Building in a concerted attempt to establish a positive relationship and to extend a respectful hand to all of the elected members of the Manitoba government, regardless of political affiliation. As a followup, RTAM was able to request and secure opportunities to meet with representatives of all three political parties.

• The collaborative initiative of the joint MTS/RTAM Pension Adjustment Account Committee continued on with its mandate to find a common recommendation to the Teacher Retirement Allowance Fund (TRAF) Board regarding the eventual disbursal of the accumulated restricted surplus of the Pension Adjustment Account. A joint MTS/RTAM recommendation was communicated to the TRAF Board for consideration, as TRAF solidifies its final recommendation to Government in a pre-determined process with explicit timelines. RTAM is most appreciative of the official opportunity to be offered a voice in a very integral matter concerning our pension.

• Our 2016 pre-election collaborative work with the coalition of other Manitoba senior serving organizations has continued on postelection by retaining membership in the Manitoba Seniors Coalition.

• I am most appreciative of the invitations that I received to attend various Chapter meetings and events.

• RTAM continues to pay close attention to how it can best serve its membership. There is a renewed awareness of how to attract new members, to serve the existing members and chapters and to solicit feedback from the membership to better meet their needs. We are aware that we also need to better address our Board renewal process to attract new members to our Board of Directors.

• The Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee was re-activated this year to develop a definitive Strategic Plan for RTAM. The committee

has made significant headway.

We need to soldier on with confidence that our proactive volunteer advocacy efforts have the potential to be a positive affect on the future well-being of both our present members and our members-to-be.

Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités-Canadian Association Of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART) Respectfully submitted by Bill Cann, Vice President and ACER-CART Director (Winnipeg) The Annual General meeting of ACER-CART will be held June 1 to 3, 2017 in Ottawa, Ontario. This year, the RTAM representatives registered, as per RTAM policy, are Bill Cann, ACER-CART Director (RTAM Vice President) and Rosalie Bornn, Observer (RTAM President).

Wayne Hughes (RTAM Director) will also attend on behalf of the ACERCART organization, as their Western Regional representative.

RTAM supported a number of ACER-CART initiatives throughout the 2016-2017 year.

September 2016: RTAM promoted the United Nations International Day of the Older Person (October 1, 2016) by publicizing Seniors’ Voice information on Housing, Health, Pensions and Inequality. RTAM was one of 29 organizations across Canada which, along with ACER-CART, endorsed the Declaration Concerning A National Health Care Strategy for Seniors. English and French copies of the Declaration were posted on the RTAM website.

November 2016: RTAM supported the ACER-CART initiative to influence the Negotiations for A New Health Accord.

January 2017: RTAM supported the ACER-CART request to make our members aware of the Cogniciti project, a confidential online test which provides seniors with an early diagnosis of dementia.

January - April 2017: RTAM support of the opposition to federal Bill C-27. Bill C-27 would allow employers to renege on previous promises of defined benefit pensions as part of the compensation to current employees and retirees.

Executive Director’s Report Respectfully submitted by Mary-Anne Slegers With over 9,500 members, 21 chapters, an 18 member board and 13 standing committees with 67 members, there is a lot going on at RTAM! In hiring an Executive Director, RTAM took a first step toward recognizing that the goals and objectives of the organization could no longer be fully supported by volunteers and the existing staff complement.

To ensure that board, committee and membership needs can be met, a number of administrative changes have been implemented over the past year. Some of the main changes are: • Accounting software (SAGE) is being used that supports the tracking of costs on a “project” basis allowing for improved budgetary monitoring, forecasting and cost control. Upgrades to the computer system.

• Processes and procedures for maintaining filing systems have been revised with the goal of ensuring that there is a complete record of

RTAM.MB.CA n 7

AGM 2017 REPORTS board and committee reports, documents and correspondence for consistency, history and to support board and committee members when there are transitions.

• Office services and administrative support to the Board and Committees have been expanded. A procedure is now in place for vetting of outside communications to improve consistency.

• The part-time administrative staffing model has been re-structured.

The new Member Services Coordinator position will be staffed Monday to Friday (9 to 3).

On average, the RTAM office receives 7 calls per day. 36% of these calls are related to Johnson Inc. queries, 45% relate specifically to RTAM business and 19% are other callers.

It has been a year of transition and there will continue to be challenges as the evolution and growth of the organization continues.

RTAM POLICY CHANGES The following interim policy changes have the approval of the RTAM Board of Directors and are brought forward to the AGM assembly as per Subsection 4.02 of the RTAM Policy Manual (2015).

Policy Motion 1: that Section 7- Duties of the Officers 7.01 The President (2014) section j) be amended to read: j) Appoint an Ad Hoc nominating committee for the AGM election, approve arrangements and plan the program and agenda.

Rationale: This will facilitate the nominating process and ensure a slate of candidates for the AGM’s consideration.

Policy Motion 2: that Section 7- Duties of the Officers 7.01 The President be amended to add: 7.01 (1) The current year’s President may approve the reservation of a venue for the next year’s AGM, subject to cancellation/confirmation following the decision of the Board under 6.01 a) and the approval of the next year’s President under 7.01 j).

Rationale: This motion expands the Duties of the President to include the ability to approve the reservation of an AGM venue for the next year while respecting the authority of the incoming Board to determine the location of the AGM. Policy Motion 3: that Section 8.06 (1) AGM and Elections Committee b) be amended to read: Recommend to the President, no later than September, a suitable venue within the location chosen for the AGM. Rationale: As per 7.02 j), the President has the authority to approve arrangements for the AGM. As such the AGM and Elections Committee is responsible for recommending a venue to the president not to the Board.

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RTAM KIT Summer 2017

Policy Motion 4: that Section 8 - Committees 8.06(1) AGM and Elections Committee be amended to add: 8.06 (1A) The AGM and Elections Committee may recommend to the President, a suitable venue for the next year’s AGM. Rationale: The motion supports the AGM and Elections Committee with the process of recommending a venue for the next AGM to the current President.

Policy Motion 5: that Section 13 - RTAM Sponsored Insurance Plans (2012) 13.01 Insurance Plans and Premiums be amended to add: e) that the surviving spouse of a full/associate member who was enrolled in an RTAM sponsored plan at the time of death may retain the plan without a gap in coverage by applying for an associate membership as soon as is reasonably possible.

Rationale: This allows the surviving spouse to retain the benefits previously enrolled in at the time of their spouse’s death.

REPORTS OF THE RTAM STANDING & AD HOC COMMITTEES AGM and Elections Respectfully submitted by Doreen Sage, Co-Chair AGM (Neepawa) Members: Ray Sitter, Co-Chair Elections (Brandon) This position is, by Policy, chaired by the Past President. Under the circumstances, I was asked to fill this position. Ray Sitter of Brandon agreed to handle the election part of the AGM as Co-Chair Elections. The Swan River Retired Teachers Chapter of RTAM was selected as the host Chapter by the Board for the 2017 AGM. I travelled to Swan River in October, 2016, to meet the Swan Valley Chapter host committee.

All the organizing and planning is done by the chair and the RTAM office staff and vetted by the president, except the Tuesday evening social, which is planned by the Swan Valley Retired Teachers Chapter of RTAM. Benefits Respectfully submitted by Wayne Hughes, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Guy Lacroix (Lac du Bonnet), Judy Olmstead (Brandon), Doreen Sage (Neepawa), Diane Snider (Winnipeg) Ex-Officio: Grace Reimer (Staff) Each year the Benefits Committee is responsible to work with our broker Johnson Inc. to renew the Premier Travel Plan, Extended Health Care Plan and Dental Plan. Johnson provides us with the data of plan experience as well as the opening request from the insurer, Desjardins. Counter proposals are formulated and Johnson negotiates on our behalf with Desjardins.

AGM 2017 REPORTS This past year has been a difficult negotiation. The claims experience has been very high due to the low Canadian dollar as well as a number of very large claims. Consequently, our members who are participating in the RTAM plans have seen high premium increases for the coming year. The increases are as follows: Premier Travel – 25%; Extended Health Plan – 9.5%; Dental Plan – 3%. Renewal letters have been sent to all our members participating in the plans.

The Benefits Committee also tries to look to the future. To that end, Johnson has been asked to explore some new initiatives that might attract future members and meet their insurance needs. Next year’s benefit committee will be presented with a new plan called “Thrive” which will allow members to choose the level of coverage at one of three levels (Bronze, Silver or Gold level). Stay tuned for these exciting developments.

Feedback from Plan members has been appreciated as it helps build better plans that respond to our members needs while enjoying the benefits of a group plan.

A special Thank You is in order for Johnson Inc. for their willingness to listen and respond to our suggestions and concerns.

Bylaws and Policy Respectfully submitted by Joan Dawson, Chair (Thompson) Members: Vel McAdam (The Pas), Ray Sitter (Brandon), Wally Stoyko (Winnipeg) Committee communication and collaboration throughout the year consisted of two committee meetings, e-mail and phone calls.

We reviewed several policies including the privacy of information policy and those issues are on hold for now until the reorganizing of the office is completed and we know what kind of procedures and motions will meet our needs.

The Committee worked to develop the wording necessary to accomplish Board motions respecting AGM planning and adjustments to qualification for access to group benefits available under the Johnson Inc. plans.

Thank you to the Board of Directors for their valuable input and support of the work of the Bylaws and Policy Committee. Thank you to the committee members for their hard work and efforts throughout the year. Their mentorship has been extremely helpful and made the year proceed smoothly. Working with you has been a pleasure.

Communications Respectfully submitted by Jack Fraser, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Doreen Sage, KIT Chair (Neepawa), John Sushelnitsky, Public Relations Chair (Portage la Prairie) The Communications Committee is a coordinating committee between the Website, KIT, and Public Relations Committees. The priorities for next year will be an overall review of communication coordination in the context of the Board’s 2017-18 strategic plan and a review of technical support for the website and KIT.

Keep In Touch (KIT) Respectfully submitted by Doreen Sage, Chair and Editor (Neepawa) Members: Joan Dawson (Thompson), Joan Goble (Thompson), Beth Smith (Dauphin), William Taylor (Brandon), Vaughn Wadelius (The Pas), Gwen Watson (Matlock) KIT is published four times a year, in full colour. There is a very limited amount of paid advertising as most classifieds are done free for members. KIT is limited to 32 pages per issue, so some material is not always printed in the current issue. Decisions must be made as to what will be printed and what must wait.

Thank you to committee members who have spent much time editing and making suggestions about the material received. Thank you to those who have sent in material. This is your magazine and it is your material, so do keep sending in material, especially chapter reports.

Public Relations (PR) Respectfully submitted by John Sushelnitsky, Chair (Portage la Prairie) Members: Karen Boughton (Winnipeg), Bill Cann (Winnipeg), Ralph Cibula (Gladstone),Guy Hansen (Winnipeg),Vel McAdam (The Pas), Brian McCusker (Thompson), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg) The PR Committee participated fully with the Political Advocacy Committee in the planning and production of the 2016 Meet And Greet the Members of the Manitoba Legislature. The Committee initiated a clothing project to promote the brand of our organization.

There was considerable discussion given to the topic of ‘branding’ our organization so that a positive image is created in the minds of the general public when RTAM is involved.

The Committee submitted an article to KIT explaining the historical decision of the government in 1963 not to match teacher contributions on a monthly basis. That decision has led to a higher government financial cost some fifty years later. The article was a synopsis of a piece in the Winnipeg Free Press by Paul Moist.

The Committee joined the Pensions and Political Advocacy Committees in producing a brochure intended principally for MLAs. Its purpose is to better acquaint them with the activities and contributions of retired teachers. It would also explain our organization’s position on the Cost-Of-Living Allowance (COLA).

Website Respectfully submitted by Jack Fraser, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Wayne Hughes (Winnipeg), Barbara McDole (Winnipeg), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg) The website committee is charged with oversight of the design and maintenance of our website. This year’s committee has identified a set of necessary criteria for technical website support. In order to be appealing, effective and current, we need to be able to update our website on a daily basis. It is imperative that the information from the committees and chapters be posted at the beginning of each new RTAM year, and that changes and new information be posted efficiently. It is the responsibility of committee chairs and chapter presidents to submit proofread, brief, appropriate, and pertinent information with posting and removal dates. A review of the website’s

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

AGM 2017 REPORTS design and implementation plan for the maintenance requirements is recommended to the next year’s committee.

Educational Advocacy Respectfully submitted by Peggy Prendergast, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Lorraine Forrest (Winnipeg), Connie Newman (Winnipeg), Wally Stoyko (Winnipeg)

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The Educational Advocacy Committee held 10 meetings this year.

Much of the ongoing communication and work was shared and carried on by electronic means.

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Student Awards

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In collaboration with The Winnipeg Foundation, a $50,000 endowment fund was established in October 2013 to fund an ongoing award program. Four awards of $500 each were available to four students who are relatives of RTAM members. Four winners received RTAM awards of $500 each using the manual detailing the process involved for the administering of these awards.

The Winnipeg Foundation has informed RTAM that there will be enough funds for the 2017 Award year to offer four awards of $600 to four students who are relatives of RTAM members.

Senior Advocacy The committee organized an outreach information session in Brandon on March 22, 2017. The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) in conjunction with the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres (MASC), and with the Westman Retired Educators Association chapter (WREA), hosted a SOLD OUT (98 registrants) “Seniors’ Advocacy Forum” at the Park Avenue Activity Centre, (Seniors for Seniors) for ALL seniors in Brandon.

Based on positive feedback from the participants’ session evaluations, the Educational Advocacy Committee recommends extending this project to other host communities/chapters next year using the program format established. An integral part of the success of these events is the much appreciated work, commitment, support and cooperation of: the chapters involved, the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres (MASC) and the Senior Centres involved as well as the local health associates who cooperate with the regional health authority and the senior centres in the area.

Membership and Chapters Respectfully submitted by Beth Smith, Chair (Dauphin) Members: Pat Bowslaugh (Brandon), Joan Dawson (Thompson), Joan Goble (Thompson), Audrey Greenhill (Winnipeg), Gerald Shewchuk (Dauphin), Ray Sitter (Brandon) 1.

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Most of the Membership and Chapters Committee correspondence occurs through e-mail and telephone conversations, but as the need arises.

Each Chapter President was sent a welcome letter in September 2016 along with an application form for the Chapter Initiative Grant and updated “Meeting Ideas” Membership in RTAM over the past year, April 2016 to March 2017, has increased by 366 members to 9,540.

Fifteen Chapter Initiative Grants have been approved over the

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2016 - 2017 calendar year.

An advertisement was placed in the Manitoba Teacher, January/ February edition, to inform active teachers of a Pre-Retirement Seminar in Winnipeg. Ads were also placed on the RTAM website and in our KIT magazine, as it is distributed to every school in Manitoba.

TRAF placed an article about RTAM in their newsletter, Horizon.

An advertisement was placed in the Manitoba Teacher, January/ February edition, entitled “Why Join RTAM?” It was also placed on the RTAM website and in KIT. The Brandon Pre-Retirement Seminar was held in December, 2016.

The Winnipeg Pre-Retirement Seminar was held in February, 2017. There were 87 attendees. These seminars have three common themes: Pension and Financial Issues, An Overview of RTAM’s Voluntary Group Benefit Plans and More Than Money – About Planning for a Life in Retirement.

Officers Respectfully submitted by Rosalie Bornn (Dauphin) Members: Bill Cann (Winnipeg), Joan Dawson (Thompson), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg) The terms of reference of the Officers Committee are primarily related to staff, office and finance matters. This year, the activities of the Officers Committee included: • Receiving the Auditor’s Report.

• Negotiating the final details of the Executive Director contract submitted for Board approval.

• Reviewed the status of office operations and planning including the Staffing Re-structuring paper prepared by the Executive Director prior to presentation to the Board.

• The Officers Committee reported back to the Board on matters referred for study regarding expenses for committee members. The conclusions of the Officers Committee were: • RTAM will pay the eligible expenses of members required or invited to attend RTAM meetings based on the Committee Membership resolutions that are passed by the Board.

• The Officers Committee does not support committee size and composition resolutions by Committee Chairs that are above the policy provisions and which will knowingly result in budget overexpenditures.

Pension Respectfully submitted by Peggy Prendergast, Co-Chair (Winnipeg) Members: JoAnne Hoyak, Co-Chair (MacGregor), Julian Hoyak (MacGregor), Ken Malcolm (Dauphin), Ray Sitter (Brandon) Seven committee meetings were held during the 2016-2017 year.

Meetings were also held with three Political Parties: in December, with the Honourable Ian Wishart, Minister of Education and Training (Progressive Conservative); in March with Judy Klassen, Interim Liberal Leader who is also the Liberal Education Critic and thirdly with Flor Marcelino, Interim Leader of the Official Opposition (NDP) and Wab Kinew, Education Critic for the NDP. Discussions at meetings during the year centred around:

AGM 2017 REPORTS • The disbursement of the restricted surplus funds. Three RTAM members were appointed to meet with MTS representatives to discuss and eventually agree on a joint proposal to TRAF. • End of Bill 45. Government plans for retired teachers going forward.

• Appointment of an RTAM representative to the TRAF Board. The RTAM position paper, RTAM Nomination Process for TRAF Board Appointment, was forwarded to the political parties that RTAM had met with.

• Pension content on an updated RTAM brochure. Pension, Political Advocacy and Public Relations Committee representatives to work together to design this brochure.

Political Advocacy Respectfully submitted by Ralph Cibula, Chair (Gladstone) Members: Conrad Artibise (Winnipeg), Pat Bowslaugh (Brandon), Guy Hansen (Winnipeg), JoAnne Hoyak (MacGregor), Julian Hoyak (MacGregor), Ken Malcolm (Dauphin), Connie Newman (Winnipeg), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg), John Sushelnitsky (Portage la Prairie) The committee has continued its work as follows: a) b) c)

Researching various areas related to Retired Teachers and Seniors.

Monitoring emerging issues relevant to RTAM members.

Planning and organizing political advocacy platforms.

The Political Advocacy Committee interfaces with other RTAM committees. As a result, there has been a high degree of co-operation and support for a more open advocacy among RTAM committees and with outside organizations such as the Manitoba Seniors Coalition. The liaison with the Manitoba Seniors Coalition was a productive first time extension of RTAM work.

For the 2016-17 year, the Committee did extensive research on the following: a) b) c) d) e)

techniques in dealing with politicians at a personal level. alternative electoral reform. pension issues (defined benefits vs defined contributions). wealth/income distribution/disparity (work in progress).

A Meet and Greet was held at the Manitoba Legislative Building on October 19, 2016. The Meet and Greet is was a joint project researched and developed by joint deliberations between the Political Advocacy Committee and the Public Relations committee.

33 or 58% of the total MLA’s attended, 4 were Ministers. MLAs not in attendance were sent a covering letter together with the hand-out that was distributed at the Meet and Greet.

The Political Advocacy Committee worked with the Pension Committee and the Public Relations Committee to develop a brochure suitable for handing out to MLA’s and others.

We stress the importance of good quality brochures, well designed flags, RTAM branded clothing, banners and plenty of public display materials.

Our Political Advocacy Committee also recognizes the importance of having teachers from all parts of Manitoba participate on an equal basis within the RTAM framework and continues to advocate for nondiscriminating language and actions at the Committee and the Board level. We recognize the useful qualities of the latest communications

technologies and at the same time recognize the deficiencies in the quality of participation meeting by these technologies alone.

The board approved a motion put forward by the PA Committee for a letter to the Special Committee on Electoral Reform. The letter informed the Committee that the RTAM Board, supports in principle the process of electoral reform to replace the first-past-the-post system.

Wellness Respectfully submitted by Peggy Prendergast, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Joan Dawson (Thompson), Lydia Heshka (Winnipeg), Maureen Recksiedler (Stonewall), Linda Scott (Winnipeg), Bea Shantz (Winnipeg) Four committee meetings were held during the 2016-2017 year using conference calls to access the out-of-town members.

The Wellness Committee believes that older adults experience a higher quality of life by becoming responsible for their personal wellness. By providing a number of activities that deal with the following six recognized dimensions of wellness – emotional, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and vocational health, it is our hope to promote development in those key areas and thus integrate wellness into the daily lives of our members.

The fall Wellness Seminar topics for discussion were: FOOD FOR THE OLDER ADULTand REAL ESTATE TRANSITIONS: Options for down-sizing living spaces.

A spring Wellness Seminar was planned with the following topics for discussion: PARAMEDIC SERVICES with an emphasis on Fall Prevention.

DECLUTTERING & DOWNSIZING This seminar was postponed until the fall of 2017.

Ad Hoc-Distance Technology Respectfully submitted by Bill Cann, Chair (Winnipeg) Members: Ralph Cibula (Gladstone), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg) An Ad Hoc committee to facilitate the implementation of internet technology to facilitate long distance audio-visual communication at any RTAM activity was established.

An estimate to install hardware in the RTAM Boardroom to facilitate distance video conferencing throughout the province was received and reviewed by the committee. The committee sought information from other institutions using video-conferencing. The software evaluation is on-going at this time.

Ad Hoc-Strategic Planning Respectfully Submitted by Beth Smith (Dauphin) Members: Bill Cann (Winnipeg), Joan Dawson (Thompson), Jack Fraser (Winnipeg), Carol Pelton (Winnipeg), Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg), Beth Smith (Dauphin) In recent years RTAM has attempted to formulate long range planning, having in mind the development of a Strategic Plan for the organization. Several initiatives were undertaken that led to the development of a Mission Statement, Vision Statement and Values

RTAM.MB.CA n 11

AGM 2017 REPORTS Statements that have been affirmed by previous Board motion.

Utilizing and building upon the work that had been accomplished at previously held facilitator-led Board planning initiatives, was an important part of the committee process. The committee built on these previous accomplishments and zeroed in on the five Strategic Plan Pillars of 1) Advocacy 2) Communications 3) Governance 4) Member Services 5) Wellness. A DRAFT Strategic Plan is ready to be shared with the RTAM Board.

REPORTS ON RTAM Representation on Outside Groups/ Committees Joint MTS/RTAM Pension Adjustment Account (PAA) Committee: Respectfully submitted by Rosalie Bornn, President (Dauphin) RTAM Representatives: Rosalie Bornn, President (Dauphin), JoAnne Hoyak, Co-chair Pensions Committee (MacGregor), Wayne Hughes, Director (Winnipeg) Disbursal of the Restricted Surplus Joint MTS/RTAM PAA Committee Agreement Process Early in the year 2016, RTAM was presented the opportunity to participate in a joint committee of MTS/RTAM members to arrive at a joint recommendation to TRAF of how to disburse the accumulated restricted surplus fund portion of the Pension Adjustment Account of the TRAF plan following the close of the ten-year-period of the terms of Bill 45.

In response, the RTAM Board appointed three representatives, the President, a member of the Pension Committee and a Director with extensive experience with the Pension Committee and knowledge of TRAF Pension matters, to the joint MTS/RTAM PAA Committee. The joint committee then followed a process that included: • Dialogue with the RTAM Board of Directors and collaboration with the Pension Committee.

• Meeting with the CEO and the Actuary of the TRAF plan to become familiar with the information provided to both parties by TRAF. • Securing input from an independent Actuary to further study the matter at hand.

• Seeking additional information from TRAF that was shared with MTS. • Being provided additional information that MTS had requested from TRAF. • Participating in a series of joint MTS/RTAM PAA Committee Meetings to further address the mandate of the joint committee.

• Arriving at a joint MTS/RTAM PAA Committee recommendation agreement to the eventual disbursal of the restricted surplus fund.

• Receiving RTAM Board approval of the joint committee recommendation that would be taken to the TRAF Board for consideration when developing their recommendation to Government.

• Communicating to TRAF the joint RTAM/MTS PAA Committee recommendation as approved by both the MTS and RTAM organizations.

Currently, TRAF is continuing on with the process established by the TRAF Board and external legal counsel. TRAF has initiated a “Request for Comments” process to collect feedback from TRAF members on the options for the disbursal. All TRAF members have the opportunity

12 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

to comment. The Request for Comments information is on the TRAF website, all TRAF plan members for whom TRAF has an email address were sent an email notice and the initiative is advertised in the latest TRAF newsletter. The request for comments is in advance of TRAF’s June 2017 Board meeting, where it is expected that a decision will be finalized that will be recommended to Government.

MTS 100th Anniversary Committee: Respectfully submitted by Beth Smith (Dauphin) RTAM Representatives: Beth Smith (Dauphin), Pat Lewicki (Winnipeg) Celebrating MTS 100 years in 2019 This celebration will coincide with the Winnipeg Labour Congress 1919 Strike Anniversary Activities which will take place in May 2019.

• The celebration will kick off at the August 2018 MTS Summer Seminars.

• Art work will be showcased in the MTS building.

• MTS staff will create a museum section for the MTS website. The Manitoba Teacher will have a special Anniversary Edition.

• The central event is on May 24, 2019 at the Fairmont in Winnipeg.

There will be significant capacity and tickets will be available for a modest price.

• Concurrent celebrations throughout Manitoba and Canada (RTAM Chapters) shall be encouraged. Therefore, satellite venues are also encouraged.

Manitoba Seniors Coalition: Respectfully submitted by Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg) RTAM Representatives: Peggy Prendergast, Co-Chair Pension Committee (Winnipeg), John Sushelnitsky, Chair Public Relations (Portage la Prairie) The Coalition is made up of representatives from A&O: Support Services for Older Adults, Active Living Coalition for Older Adults, Transportation Options Network for Seniors, Manitoba Association of Senior Centres, Fédération des aînés franco-manitobains (FAFM), Long Term & Continuing Care Association of Manitoba, Retired Teachers Association of Manitoba and the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres.

Five Committee meetings were held during the 2016/2017 year. A meeting with representatives from the Retired Teachers Association of Manitoba (RTAM) and the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres (MASC) was held with the Minister of Finance on October 17, 2016 at the Manitoba Legislature. Information about the Manitoba Seniors Coalition was shared. The Minister showed interest in individual stories of seniors and their issues.

The Manitoba Seniors Coalition was established from the Seniors Vote Coalition that focused on issues relevant to seniors that were found to be common to seven different senior organizations during the last provincial election. The pillars of concern are modelled after those used in the last Federal Election by the Canadian Association of Retired Teachers (ACER-CART). The coalition believes that “If the world is right for seniors it is right for everyone.”

2017 RTAM

Distinguished Service Award Winners

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he recipients of the 2017 RTAM Distinguished Service Award were announced at the AGM Reception on May 9, 2017, held at the Swan Valley Museum in Swan River, Manitoba. Of particular note this year, is that John Kastrukoff, the First President of RTAM and a Distinguished Service Award winner was from the Swan River area.

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual whose service to RTAM has been extraordinary. In 2017, three RTAM members are being honoured. This brings the number of Distinguished Service Award recipients to 21 since the award was established in 2001. The names of the RTAM Distinguished Service Award winners are placed on a permanent plaque in the RTAM Office. The 2017 RTAM Distinguished Service Award winners are: Marvin G. Krawec (Posthumous) served RTAM as a Chapter President, RTAM Vice President and RTAM President. What makes his nomination worthy of such recognition was his

boundless enthusiasm and energy for reaching out to build bridges, as he would often say. He realized the importance of building bridges to a better relationship with The Manitoba Teachers’ Society, government and all political parties, to national retiree organizations and to provincial senior groups. Although his time was brief on the RTAM provincial stage, his impact was profound, setting a tone for engagement with our many partners in the retirement community.

The award for Marvin G. Krawec will be presented to a family member at the 2018 AGM. Connie Newman has served on several RTAM committees. Her role in the creation of the Manitoba Seniors Coalition before the 2016 provincial election has led RTAM to an expanded vision of what its relationship to other senior groups should be. Although not alone in her commitment to this vision, she has given leadership that is worthy of our recognition of distinguished service to our organization. As a member of the Educational Advocacy Committee,

Photo by Swan Valley Star and Times

Submitted by Mary-Anne Slegers RTAM Executive Director

RTAM.MB.CA n 13

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Through his committee work, John has helped develop many new and innovative directions for RTAM. One of his most important contributions was convincing the Board to commission a professional assessment of RTAM’s structure, strengths and weaknesses. The impact of this study will be felt for many years in all aspects of improving RTAM’s service to its members. John is always ready to volunteer his time and expertise, whether assisting with the new brochure for MLAs, writing articles on behalf of RTAM, or just playing his guitar and singing for everyone’s entertainment at social events.

The award for John Sushelnitsky was presented to him at the AGM Reception on May 10. n

New RTAM Directors for 2017 - 2018

Directors Leaving the RTAM Board

Photo by Dorothy Young

she has taken a leadership role with the chair of the committee over the past four years working towards making seniors more aware of the services available in their local communities.

The award for Connie Newman was presented at the May 5, 2017, meeting of the RTAM St. James-Assiniboia Chapter.

John Sushelnitsky joined the RTAM Board eleven years ago. He has served as a Director and chaired various committees. John’s service as one of the two RTAM representatives to the Seniors Coalition has already provided numerous benefits, most notably a much stronger collective voice in recent federal and provincial elections. Perhaps more important for RTAM’s future, are the improved awareness, services and political voice on matters concerning the health, wellness and economic security of retired teachers.

John embodies in both his personal and professional life the mantra of “Service to others before oneself.” As a long serving Director, John frequently provides the Board with the benefits of his insight, experience and abundant common sense. During debates, he can always be depended upon to ask questions which clarify meaning and intent. One of his most important projects has been the annual Meet and Greet evenings with the politicians of all political parties at the Manitoba Legislature.

Connie Newman, Bill Cann and Peggy Prendergast

Bill Cann Alison Logan

14 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

Judy Olmstead

Wayne Hughes

Vel McAdams

COMMITTEE REPORTS

2017 AGM Financial Summary Report • The Auditor’s Report for the 2015 - 2016 fiscal year was received and the Board was authorized to appoint BGP Accounting and Tax Services as the auditor for the 2016 - 2017 fiscal year.

• An increase in the RTAM Membership Fee to $36.00/year effective July 1, 2017, was approved. This will be a $0.50/month increase for RTAM members whose membership fees are deducted from their TRAF pension or $6.00/year for RTAM members whose membership fees are not deducted from a TRAF pension.

• Allowances for personal travel expenses remain at 2016 - 2017 rates. ($0.50/km for mileage, breakfast @ $15.00; lunch @ $20.00; dinner @ $25.00, Hotels $150/day, private accommodation 50% of hotel rate.)

• The Reserve Fund for 2017 - 2018 is set at 25% of the 2016-2017 budget which is $98,486.

• The 2017 - 2018 RTAM budget proposed by the RTAM Board of Directors was approved with revenues and expenses of $447,545 each. n

RTAM Pre-Retirement Seminars

Photos by Beth Smith

Beth Smith, Membership & Chapters Chairperson

P

re-Retirement Seminars are offered by RTAM (Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba). These seminars have been offered in Brandon (December, 2016), Winnipeg (February, 2017) and Thompson (May, 2017).

These seminars have three common themes: Pension and Financial Issues, An Overview of RTAM’s Voluntary Group Benefit Plans and More Than Money – About Planning for a Life in Retirement.

The Winnipeg Pre-Retirement Seminar had 87 attendees from public and private schools from Winnipeg and surrounding areas. Letters had been sent out to superintendents and principals, as well as private schools, providing them with the Winnipeg Pre-Retirement Seminar information.

Please contact RTAM if you would like more information about these Pre-Retirement Seminars, or if you would like help to plan one for your area. n RTAM.MB.CA n 15

2017

Incoming Board of Directors for 2017 - 2018 First row: (L-R) Ray Sitter, Joan Dawson, Rosalie Bornn, Carol Pelton, John Sushelnitsky.

Middle row: (L-R) Beth Smith, JoAnne Hoyak, Guy Hansen, Doreen Sage, Judy Olmstead, Wally Stoyko Top row: (L-R) Peggy Prendergast, Ken Malcolm, Guy Lacroix, Jack Fraser, Ralph Cibula

Norm Gould, President, MTS brings greetings and a $3,000 contribution toward the RTAM AGM. 16 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

Jeff Norton, President & CEO, TRAF presents 2016 TRAF Report

Brenda Venuto, Senior Vice President, Member Services, TRAF presents 2016 TRAF Report

Glen McKenzie, Mayor of the Town of Swan River brings greetings

Photo by Judy Olmstead

Annual General Meeting

Photo by Judy Olmstead

Chapter Presidents 1st Row (L to R) Ben Veselovsky, Southwest Assiniboine; Guy Gagnon, ÉMR; Ron Landry, Intermountain; Garry Finlay, VanIsles; Joan Smith, Dauphin; Darlene Wilkinson, Westman.

2nd Row (L to R) Lana Rinn, Boyne; Ruth Hartnell, Retired Women Teachers’; Nancy Phillips, Interlake; Joan Rink, Neepawa; Vel McAdam, The Pas; Joan Goble, Thompson.

3rd Row (L to R) Abe Wiebe, Hanover; Ed Richenhaller, Swan Valley; Dennis Kozak, Calgary; Jack Fraser, Louis Riel; Charles Clifford, Portage.

Dorothy Young, AGM Independent Chair

John Sushelnitsky, Director, RTAM, leads the singing of O Canada in both official languages

AGM photos purchased from Swan Valley Star and Times, unless otherwise indicated.

RTAM.MB.CA n 17

(L to R) Jeff Bennett, Jessica Simpson, Lil Urichen, Dauphin Chapter (Winner of the Ipad mini), Shannon Patershuk, and Judy Olmstead.

Photo by John Sushelnitsky

Photo by Judy Olmstead

Retired teachers, formerly of Thompson

Sheila Kelbert, Swan Valley Retired Teachers announcing the winners of the door prizes

Valerie Bertram, Constituent Assistant to MLA Rick Wowchuk brings greetings on behalf of the Honourable Ian Wishart, Minister of Education and Training

AGM Head Table (L to R) Joan Dawson, Secretary RTAM, Rosalie Bornn, President, RTAM, Dorothy Young, RTAM member and AGM Independent Chair

18 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

Mary-Anne Slegers, Executive Director, RTAM, taking notes during Chapter President presentations

Photo by John Sushelnitsky

The Swan Valley Retired Teachers’ Reception Committee (L to R) Sheila Kelbert, Ed Richenhaller, Pat Richenhaller, Carol Fahrenschon, Aneta Betcher, Henry Bartkowski

Ed and Pat Richenhaller from the Swan Valley Retired Teachers Chapter with an album commemorating the Chapter’s 25th Anniversary in September 2015.

Photo by John Sushelnitsky

Attendees enjoying the evening

Johnson Inc. (L to R) Shannon Patershuk, Regional Manager, Retiree Program Relations (West), Jessica Simpson, Regional Manager, Plan Benefit Claims and Administration and Jeff Bennett Vice President, Group Benefits (West Region)

Attendees enjoying the evening

An AGM attendee The Burghart family band, “MaJicaL LSG” provided the entertainment for the Reception

AGM photos purchased from Swan Valley Star and Times, unless otherwise indicated.

RTAM.MB.CA n 19

Keep your home protected while you’re away

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week, a month or even a year, discover tips to keep your home safe so you can travel worry-free.

You spent a long winter daydreaming about beaches, gelato stands, and fancy hotel rooms… and now it’s finally your turn to go on vacation. It’s time to pack up and head out. But before you do, take a few simple precautions to keep everything safe back at home. Whether you’re going away for a week, a month or a year, these steps can keep your home and possessions secure while you’re far away. So when you’re strolling down that cobblestone street at sunset, you really won’t have a care or worry in the world.

“Most people remember to lock the doors but they don’t take other important steps,” says Keith Simons, general manager of Canadian Security Professionals. “For example, they leave their garage door opener in the car. That is a problem because it’s relatively easy to break into a house through the garage.”

Here are a few more expert tips to help protect your home from burglary, fire, flood, and other damage while you’re away, whether you’re planning a short getaway or long-term leave.

Planning to be away for one to two weeks

1. Install a home security system Even if you’re only gone for a few weeks every year, it’s still a good idea to install a home security system. These systems are connected to a control panel that activates when doors or windows are opened. Some systems also include fire and carbon monoxide alarms, broken glass detectors and motion sensors. Sophisticated systems also control home lighting and temperature. Post signs that indicate your home is protected by a security company. And be sure to notify your security company of your travel plans.

20 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

2. Invest in good locks We know you’ll remember to lock all your doors and windows before you go. But not all locks are created equal — deadbolt locks are best for all external doors and windows and slide locks are effective on sliding glass doors.

3. Get a neighbour to check in Give a neighbour your vacation information and contact numbers in case of an emergency.

Take that house key you keep under the mat (an easy find for burglars) and give it to that trusted neighbour instead. Not only is it good to have someone come by to check on things, they’ll also help create the impression that someone is at home.

• Ask them to collect your mail and newspapers daily.

• On a short trip, they probably won’t need to mow the lawn or trim the hedges, but you may ask them to keep the snow shovelled in the winter.

• If your car isn’t in the driveway, invite a neighbour to park there occasionally while you’re gone.

• If they can’t come by every day, invest in a timer for your interior lights, television, and radio so they go on and off at varying times.

4. Do a quick utilities check These small steps help to protect your house from fires and floods — and may save you money, too.

• Ensure smoke detectors are working before you go.

• Unplug all appliances (except those that are on timers.)

• In the winter, turn the heat down to about 13 degrees Celsius. That will cut hydro costs while preventing your pipes from freezing. You can also cut costs if you set the temperature to about 30 degrees Celsius in the summer.

Planning to be away for a few months

1. Put subscriptions on hold If you’re going to be away for longer than a few weeks, you should put a stop on all mail and newspaper delivery.

2. Check your pipes Ensure your pipes don’t leak or burst while you’re away.

• Turn off the water supply with the exception of the fire sprinkler system.

• Drain water from your pipes and clear water from the tanks and bowls of your toilets. If you’re going to be away in the winter, pour special antifreeze in the tanks and bowls.

• Ensure the pipes are well insulated during the winter.

• Have a neighbour to stop by once in a while to turn on the faucets.

Planning to be away for a sabbatical

Recruit the experts If you’re going to be away for more than a few months, you’re going to need to rely on more than just the neighbours. Here are some resources to help keep you safe.

• Notify police that the property will be vacant.

• Hire a professional to inspect your heating system before you go.

• Ask an electrical contractor to inspect your wiring and outlets.

• Call someone in to check the roof and clean the gutters.

• Ask a landscaper to remove dead trees and prune tree branches that hang over the house.

• Finally, call your home insurer. They will let you know what’s needed to keep your policy in force while you’re far away.

Article courtesy of Johnson Insurance. Johnson is an insurance provider specializing in home, auto and travel insurance, as well as group benefits. More information about Johnson at www.johnson.ca.

Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc., a licensed insurance intermediary, and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia.”

RTAM.MB.CA n 21

So Request It Vaughn Wadelius

H

ave you had occasion to send someone an email and wondered if they received it? Most email programs have a mechanism for the sender to find that out. Usually found under the TOOLS tab at the top of your email page, if you drop down from this tab, click “Request Receive Receipt” and when you send the email it alerts the recipient that you want a receipt.

Unfortunately, the onus is then on the recipient to click on “Send Receipt” for this action to be taken. Usually, if it is a slow email day, the recipient will do that and you will be informed.

However, there are times when a recipient just doesn’t want to do so. If they are writing a reply to you anyway it may seem like a duplication to them to initiate such an additional step. If they are being inundated with emails at that moment they may forget to send that “Receipt” out, or they just don’t want to take the time to do so.

Some email programs may seem not to have this mechanism as they have it more hidden from the users of their software. The Outlook 10 email program I have been required to use has it located under OPTIONS then MAIL then

RTAM T-Shirt

A

TRACKING. In that location there are various options to select which can confirm that the email has been sent out, that it has been received, and how to deal with the email message you get back with that information. Users of Chrome who compose messages in “Draft” may know there is a feature in its tool bar called “Options,” one of which is to request a receipt of a sent message.

Ultimately one has to become familiar with the various shortcuts so as to use them. You may have to ask your local techie, or a friend who is a competent user, or buy the appropriate “Software for Dummies” manual. n

John Sushelnitsky

nother opportunity to purchase an RTAM logo polo shirt! For a limited time only, if you would like to buy an item that promotes the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba you can do so by sending a cheque for $33.35 (tax included) to John Sushelnitsky, 818 Crescent Road West, Portage la Prairie, Manitoba R1N 0Z1. The cheque should be made out to RTAM. The deadline for ordering is August 1, 2017. The shirt is provided at cost. The RTAM shirt will be sent to you C.O.D (mailing costs) before September. Sizes: S, M,L,XL,2XL,3XL, 4XL for Ladies and Men. You must include your mailing address. Thank you for your support. n

22 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

CHAPTER REPORTS

Thank you, Vaughn!

Rosalie Bornn, RTAM President

V

aughn Wadelius of The Pas, MB, attended AGM 2017 in Swan River MB as a chapter representative of The Pas Retired Teachers’ Association. Vaughn is a former Director and President of RTAM (2005 - 06) and is a past recipient of the RTAM Distinguished Service Award.

After his volunteer work with RTAM, Vaughn moved on to several years of active volunteer service with the ACER-CART Board of Directors, eventually serving as President and more recently, in the capacity of Special Advisor to the ACER-CART organization.

Vaughn’s attendance in Swan River gave RTAM the opportunity to acknowledge Vaughn’s many

years of volunteer advocacy on behalf of retired teachers at the national level and to also present him with a small memento of appreciation from RTAM. n

Calgary Chapter Report

Penny Hogan

O

n Thursday, March 2, 2017, the Calgary and Area Chapter enjoyed an enthusiastic presentation by Ellen Humphrey, Calgary Public Library Deputy CEO. In her self introduction, Ellen admitted to the fourteen members assembled that she has been employed with the Calgary Public Library so long that she no longer pays into the pension plan! Her long career has definitely not deterred Ellen’s enthusiasm. This was so evident as Ellen spoke on the topic “Not Your Grandmother’s Library.”

A new Calgary Central Library is currently under construction in Calgary’s East Village.

Fast facts: 245,000 square feet on five floors at a cost of $245 million (on budget and fully funded thanks to private and corporate donors) when the building opens on schedule in late 2018. An open competition, which included 39 firms from around the world, awarded the design of the building jointly to the Swedish firm, Snowhetta and Dialog in Calgary. Details and

The New Central Library, located just east of City Hall in East Village, will be 240,000 square feet of functional, flexible, beautifully designed space. Photo taken from yycnewcentrallibrary.com/

pictures of the Central Library, many of which were included in Ellen’s presentation, are available at: yycnewcentrallibrary.com The Calgary Chapter continues to meet four times yearly for lunch, camaraderie and presentations on topics of interest. If you have relocated to Calgary and Area, we invite you to consider joining us at our next get together. Contact Dennis Kozak 587 891 7114 or email Penny Hogan at literacyplus@ shaw.ca for details. n RTAM.MB.CA n 23

CHAPTER REPORTS

WREA Celebrates 25 Years as an RTAM Chapter Article and photos by Judy Olmstead

W

estman Retired Educators’ Association celebrated its 25th anniversary as a chapter of RTAM with an anniversary cake at their AGM luncheon on April 11, 2017.

There was a very active Westman Retired Educators group as early as 1975, ​which was involved in publishing books and developing slide programs related to the teaching of children, furnishing a club room with shuffleboard, pool and card tables, and enjoying bridge together. In September 1991, this group formulated their constitution and became the 5th chapter of the newly organized RTAM. To mark the 25th anniversary, WREA also decided to grant an award to a student or group of students. The Brandon School Division Youth Revolution group, comprised of 600 students​ from grades 5 through 12 in Brandon schools, was chosen as the recipient of the $500 award.

The YR group is now rooted in volunteerism and philanthropy, with the students bringing forward ideas and deciding where they want to go. The YR group will decide on a project or projects for using the award in the 2017-2018 school year and report back to WREA.

24 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

The J.R. Reid YR group just completed work on a joint project with the Vincent Massey YR group, and the award was presented at their celebration lunch on May 2, 2017.

Shown are students from J.R.Reid accepting the award ​on behalf of Youth Revolution from Judy Olmstead (Past President) and Darlene Wilkinson (President) of WREA. n

CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers’ Association Report Submitted by Cécile Alarie-Skene, President

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etired women teachers are invited to join the Retired Women Teachers’ Association.

RWTA’s goal is to maintain relationships with former colleagues and hopefully, make new friends. We are also active in dealing with problems concerning the welfare of our members.

We are pleased to introduce new menus created for our luncheons, which are held four times a year, at the Masonic Centre, 420 Corydon Avenue, Winnipeg, MB (Confusion Corner).

2017 – 2018 Luncheon dates are:

September 28, 2017, Luncheon and Fashion Show by Northern Reflections If you are not yet a member but wish to attend this first luncheon, call Lynda Tunny before September 15, 2017: 204-735-2823.

Other luncheon dates with entertainment are: December 14, 2017; February 22, 2018; April 26, 2018.

Served lunches with entertainment will continue to be available for $20 per event payable at the door (but you must register before.)

RWTA Executive Committee 2017 - 2018

President: Cécile Alarie-Skene Vice-President: non named Past-President: Ruth Hartnell Treasurer: Dolores Tutkaluk Recording Secretary: Pat Opalko Corresponding Secretary: Ruth Hartnell Membership Convenor: Cécile Alarie-Skene Club Notices: Brenda Zybrinski Social Committee: Louise Burton, Lynda Tunny, Kathy Deyman, Sultana Hussain Tickets: Birdielyn Gray, Kathleen Parums RTAM and Pensions: Peggy Prendergast Visiting: Emily Williamson, Lenore Butler Publicity: Heather Emberley, Ruth Hartnell Archivist: Carol Pelton Pianist: Charlotte Stech n

RWTA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 2017 – 2018 To become a member complete this form and return it along with your cheque for $8.00 before September 15, 2017.

After this date, notices will be sent and phone calls made only to paid-up members.

If you are paying your fees at the luncheon on September 28, please complete this form and bring it with you to the luncheon.

Name (Miss, Ms, Mrs.):___________________________________________________________________ E-mail address: ___________________________________ Phone number: _________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________ City____________________________________________ Postal Code___________________________ Make $8.00 cheque payable to Retired Women Teachers’ Association and mail to: Cécile Alarie-Skene, 227 Parkville Bay, Winnipeg, MB R2M 2J6 No post-dated cheques, please.

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

Put Patients First

Guy Hansen, Board Member; photos by Faye Hansen

A

t a short rally at the Victoria Hospital, Winnipeg, the chant broke out “PUT PATIENTS FIRST.” It was led by the Manitoba Nurses’ Union, opposing the closure of three Emergency Care Rooms in Winnipeg Hospitals. Our board had just voted to “have a presence” at this event. We all know that as we

get older, we no longer bounce when we fall.

We break.

There was a real sense of unity at this rally, with cars going by honking and a couple of tandem trucks on their air horns. Quite a few of the 200 participants carried their colors on placards or flags. n

Join the Associates of the Winnipeg Art Gallery Esme Scarlett, Chair, Associates of WAG

W

e would like to extend a warm invitation to join the Associates of the Winnipeg Art Gallery.

As an Associate you will have the opportunity to learn more about art, meet local artists, volunteer for a variety of exciting events and make new friends as you support the growth and vitality of Canada’s oldest civic are gallery.

The Associates were established in 1948 and our group has been instrumental in raising funds for the gallery to purchase art, present major exhibitions, expand children’s programs and most recently to support the building on the new Inuit Art Centre.

Membership has its benefits as you have access to exclusive opportunities to learn about art, including our Art Study Groups, lectures

26 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

and tours. You will work closely with staff and artists and receive early notification of programs including our often sold out international Travel Tours. There are lots of opportunities to be involved on subcommittees organizing events and having fun with friends.

We currently have 110 members, many of whom are retired teachers, in fact 30% of our current Executive is made up of retired teachers!

So join us and become involved in learning about art, volunteering, event organizing and fundraising. It’s fun to be an Associate!

Esme Scarlett, The Associates, President For more information or to join contact: associates@wag.ca or 204 786-6641 ext 286 wag.ca/associates n

Retired Women Teachers’ Association

Stepping Up to the Plate

By Heather Emberley

R

WTA’s 65th anniversary year coincided with the 25th anniversary year of a remarkable achievement by one of Manitoba’s finest teachers.

“It seemed like the right thing to do,” said June Gislason (1921-2014) as she reminisced about her involvement with Winnipeg Harvest during a visit I had with her at Misericordia Place.

An educator for 34 years, June was named Teacher of the Year in 1981 by the Canadian College of Teachers. She taught us, “we’re all in this together.” What a wonderful legacy June Gislason leaves Winnipeg Harvest, her children, 14 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

June started a Winnipeg Harvest Depot to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Unitarian Church in Winnipeg. From its beginnings on Banning Street to the weekly Thursday morning food bank at 603 Wellington Crescent, the venture is a tribute to the woman who lived her commitment to social justice.

The idea of a food bank “called to me,” said June and she set to work. A visit to David Northcott at Winnipeg Harvest resulted in an invitation to dinner with his family to discuss the possibility of a food bank with a concept like no other at that

time in the city. “And the rest is history,” reflected June.

After a quarter century in operation, the UU Food Bank reflects June’s determination that people who come for assistance June Gislason are to be treated with the utmost respect. June was instrumental in pioneering a service where “visitors would be allowed to shop, to make choices, to feel like they can decide which items they need.”

June also initiated a annual Orange Appeal held each December whereby Harvest families receive a box of mandarin oranges. June reiterated many times that “a food bank can happen to anyone with two missed paycheques.” June’s motto of “whatever needs to be done,” was what she was prepared to do to make food available for those in need. For her efforts she received the Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Award.

June Gislason knew hungry kids can’t learn.

Her legacy of compassion lives on and RWTA is pleased to accept donations of food and cloth bags at their annual February luncheons. n

RTAM.MB.CA n 27

Letter to the Editor This article was written before the Prime Minister’s announcement, putting the election promise of electoral reform on the back burner. However, I am still submitting it because the issue of electoral reform is complicated and requires time, thought and patience to understand. This is a first step. I would recommend George Stephenson’s article in the January/February issue of the Manitoba Teacher , pages 20-21, to anyone wishing to have a good perspective on proportional representation. It is entitled Canada needs Trump protection.

Why electoral reform?

We are ,for the most part, a pretty comfortable lot, we Canadians. Why in God’s name would the Liberal leader suggest that the past election would be the last for the process known as “first past the post”? I assume that he thought it was an unfair process. So, why could it be considered “unfair”? I vote for a candidate in my constituency and if he/she wins I am happy; if they lose, I am unhappy , but life goes on. This works well when there are only two parties: one winner, one loser.

Or does it? What happens when several parties split the vote so that no political party gets 51% and a clear mandate to govern. Then, a party with much less than a majority support gets to make the laws for the rest of us.

In other words, a party with 30% of the popular vote might get to govern although it was opposed by the other 70% that did not vote for it. There’s the rub! There’s the unfairness, and it has happened...

Perhaps it is the simplicity of understanding “winners and losers”, as Donald Trump sees the world, that makes “first past the post” so appealing, but it is also its greatest drawback. When so much power has gravitated to the Prime Minister’s Office in recent decades, and the House of Commons has becomes weaker as a consequence, there is an absence of the checks and balances that a democracy needs . Electoral reform might very well strengthen the Commons and moderate a government that has less than 50% of the popular vote.

So, what other process could be used? Some people have suggested that there should be more weight given to the overall voting strength expressed in the election. It seems on the surface to be a more complicated process but most of the countries in world have adopted it, and make it work. Perhaps, we should look a little closer at that other process and its possibilities.

Let’s assume that there are four political parties with different platforms appealing to the electorate for its support. Candidates would run in each constituency as they do now, and each party would gain support according to the election results. But, there would be no “first past the post winner. Instead, the vote would be tallied nationally and each party would get the number of seats that “it had earned on a national tally sheet. So, if a party had earned 40% of the vote it would get 40% of the seats, and so on. Each party would decide who among its candidates had deserved recognition, and decisions on government roles would be decided much as they now, by the political party leaders.

Let’s contrast what the differences might be. Now, every vote would be a factor in deciding the national outcome. Under the present system, all the votes for the candidates not winning the constituency are useless and have no bearing on the decisions that are made by government. There are opposition parties but they do not represent the actual strength of people who voted for them. Under the system being considered by the Electoral Reform committee there would be a more equitable distribution of seats, and hence, power, so that the governing party, whichever one it happens to be, would be much more aware of the concerns of all Canadians as expressed by the stronger opposition parties. Alliances and compromises are much more likely to happen based on the necessity of governing and being aware of the collective will of all citizens.

So, if change should come, let’s consider that there might be a fairer way to represent the will of the people than “first-past-the post”.

John Sushelnitsky (The writer is a director on the RTAM Board, however, the above letter is his personal opinion, not of his committee, or of the RTAM Board)

28 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

MEMORIES

I

Written by Olive G. Zeemel, submitted by Karen Boughton

n September, 1935, I enrolled in the Winnipeg Normal School at William Avenue and Gertie Street.

I had grade 12 in the hopes of earning a First Class Certificate, but was told my marks were not high enough, so I went into the Second Class training. There were three rooms of classes that year with approximately 100 teachers in training.

The cost was $100 for the year or (for most of us) $10.00 a month. Several students were asked to leave during the year as the $10.00 could not be raised (so much for the depression).

Before graduation, I am sure that all of those who were were becoming trained teachers applied to all 53 schools advertising for teachers for the following year. There would have been applicants from the Brandon Normal School and many who had not been successful in getting a school from the classes of 1935.

Not being hired, I had my name put on the list of available teachers for substituting in the City of Winnipeg and over the year got in several weeks of classroom work.

The following August, I was called for an interview with Mr. Tomlinson who was the Official Trustee for the school districts which had no local School Boards. He told me there was a teacher needed at Grand Rapids and I said I would take it.

He replied, “No, talk it over with your parents.

You might just as well go to Headingley and have the gates closed behind you for the year, as go to Grand Rapids.”

One had to go up on the last trip on the S. S. Kenora in September and return on its first trip in July.

I called the next day and accepted the posting and was paid $2.25 per teaching day. Out of this, I was to pay $20.00 a month for my room and board.

So, on September 23, 1937, I boarded the S. S. Kenora for the trip north to Grand Rapids, stopping at all the small fishing villages on the

way to let off or take on passengers and/or freight.

The trip took two days and two nights.

I was met at the landing at Grand Rapids by my landlady to be, Florence Campbell, and her three daughters, Margaret, Dorothy and Audrey.

Mrs. Campbell was the owner of the only store in Grand Rapids. The Post Office was in the store. Margaret, the eldest, looked after the store.

Dorothy and Audrey were still in school. Francis, her son, was also in school.

Florence was a widow. She was the daughter of a Scot trader who had started the store. Her mother was a girl from the Reserve. Florence, in turn, married a Scot Trader so she and her three brothers, Valentine, Lawrence and Arthur, were considered the only white people in the town.

The mailman would leave on the first of every month to take mail to The Pas. He travelled by canoe in summer and dog team in the winter. He would return on or about the ninth of the month with the Grand Rapid’s mail.

The Mountie came twice during the year and I was to report any truancy to him as he was the Truant Officer. He was responsible to see that the children came to school and weren’t kept home to do bead work or work on making things to be sold the following summer when the S. S. Kenora would make weekly trips all summer with tourists.

I had 32 pupils in the school. All classes from one to eight and one Grade Nine, a correspondence pupil, whose work I monitored and marked to report monthly to the Official Trustee. It took a couple of weeks before I could get everyone straightened out as they were very shy and would hide their face and giggle when I asked their names.

It took getting used to, too, to having a squirrel or rabbit skinned at the table by Francis while we were having our meals.

Christmas mail arrived on December 9 and it was hard, but I never opened the parcels until Christmas Day. Radio “Messages to the North” were broadcast Continued on page 30

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

In Memoriam JANUARY, 2017

FEBRUARY, 2017

MARCH, 2017

Calvin J. Alward, Winnipeg Rose-Marie Lillian Bernicot, Winnipeg Margaret E. Curwen, Winnipeg Raymond C. Davis, Winnipeg Henry T. Edwards, Winnipeg Gloria H. Ferguson, Edmonton, AB John Hanchuk, Winnipeg James Gillis Johanneson, Ste. Rose du Lac Maureen Anne Rodniski, Winnipeg Agnes M. Stephenson, Brandon Ronny Hubert Van den Bussche, Winnipeg Rosemarie Ann Wadelius, The Pas

Willa Flatt, Winnipeg Margaret Friesen, Killarney G. Glen Harrison, Winnipeg Margaret H. Hood, Carberry Frances M. Hutmacher, Winnipeg Eva Barbara Kay, Winnipeg Barbara Jean Kinsley, Winnipeg Michel Pierre Lambert, Grande Pointe Patricia May McClelland, Emerson Metro Michalchuk, Winnipeg Richard Joseph Plaisier, Virden Donald John Playfair, Winnipeg Russel William Prior, Ste. Anne Sheila J. Reid, Winnipeg Daniel Talnicoff, Winnipeg Sandra Jean Tremaine, Ste. Anne

Gerhard Alisch, Winnipeg Rene Desmet, Victoria Beach Mary M. Dziadow, Arborg Oral S. Gavaga, Lac du Bonnet Yvonne C. Gervais, Winnipeg Lennox Knowlton Harris, Winnipeg Antoinette L. Jachetta, Winnipeg Keith E. Malcolm, Winnipeg Larry D. McDougall, Daupin Wilma Blanche McLaughlin, Minnedosa William Nazeravich, Winnipeg Alice Mary Osborne, Winnipeg Sue Shklov, Winnipeg William P. Solypa, Winnipeg Janette Victoria Stephenson, Winnipeg Iris M. Winning, Rosser

Memories . . . (continued from page 29) on Friday evenings and I got messages from friends and family with news from home ever Friday.

When the S.S. Kenora arrived during the first week of July several of the men had their canoes waiting to get paying customers among the tourists who came to “Shoot the Rapids.”

The canoes and tourists were loaded onto a huge flatbed platform on railway wheels. This was drawn over the railway, the first railway in Manitoba, to take everyone up to the top of the rapids. It was hauled

by Mrs. Campbell’s horse, the only horse in town.

Everyone was loaded into canoes and “Shot the Rapids,” approximately six miles of fast water.

Incidentally, the railway was built to take the army, equipment, armaments and soldiers to the calm waters about the rapids to take them to fight “The Battle of Batoche” during the Riel Rebellion.

Another item of interest on the way back to Winnipeg on that first trip of the season, I could not get over how soft and velvety the bread was on board after a year of coarse, third grade flour, made into bread. n 30 n RTAM KIT Summer 2017

Life Members FEBRUARY, 2017 Virginia D. Andrew, Winnipeg Susanna Hilderandt, Winnipeg Rita Nemish, Winnipeg Mary Toews, Winnipeg H. Harry Yoshida, Winnipeg MARCH, 2017 Paula L. Achtemichuk, Narol Victoria Baker, Calgary, AB Jessie I. Butterfield, Swan River Mary Kathleen Hamiton, Winnipeg Gerhard A. Hildebrand, Winkler Adelard Ouimet, Winnipeg Florence Richter, Ashern APRIL, 2017 Laurence B. Friesen, Winnipeg

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba

13th Annual Reunion Viscount Gort Hotel, 670 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB Thursday, July 13, 2017 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

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

Normal School Reunion Class of 1953 - 1954 August 12, 2017 Canad Inns Destination Centre Polo Park 1405 St Matthews Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

For more information contact Morris Demkiw, 9 Manitou Bay, Winnipeg, MB R3K 0V5 OR ammoe@mts.net OR phone 204-832-0413

Normal School Reunion Class of 1952 – 1953

Tuesday, September 12, reception Wednesday, September 13, tours, activities, lunch and banquet Thursday, September 14, farewell breakfast CanadInns, Portage la Prairie, MB. For more information contact: Al or Frederica Borys 67 Baldry Bay, Winnipeg, Mb. R3T3C5 204-269-3408, alborys2@gmail.com

Oak Bank Elementary School

50+ Anniversary Celebration Thursday, October 12th, 2017 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Oak Bank Elementary School For further information: Email: obe50@sunrisesd.ca Or Web site: http://www.sunrisesd.ca/school/oakbank Information will begin to be posted as of June 15th, 2017

Bowls (Lawn Bowling)

Free Open Houses, Wednesday, June 7 and June 14, at 1212 Dakota Street, Winnipeg, from 7:00 to 9:30 p.m.

Equipment and instructors will be provided. Flat soled shoes are required.

Thereafter on Wednesday nights commencing June 21, we will have Friends and Family evenings at 1212 Dakota Street. Time etc. same as above. Cost will be $5.00 for adults and $2.00 for youth. Any questions, please call Marilyn at 204-256-6744.

Ye’ old Rusty Golf Tournament

Carman Golf Club will be the host of the Retired Teachers’ Golf Tournament on Tuesday, September 5, 2017. The entry form can be obtained from the Carman Golf and Curling Club website. Details will be provided on the form and website. Individual entries will be accepted for mix and match teams.

Proshop 1-204-745- 2366. Ask for Dean!

CUBA – ‘Spanish Studies in Cuba’ (Havana), $4,700.00 CAD for 4 wks. Hotel with breakfast and dinner, tuition fee. (Air fare not included).

250.478.0494 ssic@telus.net http://spanishstudiesincuba.ca

The Manitoba Museum

is looking for English and Bilingual Volunteer Tour Guides to deliver curriculum based education programs. Volunteers receive free admission to the Museum, Science Gallery and Planetarium along with discounts on Museum Shop purchases and continued learning opportunities. A bus ticket and parking subsidy is also available. A history, science or education background is an asset, though not necessary as comprehensive training is provided on all programs delivered. Program delivery is flexible depending on your interests and availability. If you enjoy working with children (K – 12), and have a minimum of 3 hours per week to volunteer, the Manitoba Museum will be a great fit for you! For more information contact Noreen at (204) 988-0633 or by email at nhees@manitobamuseum.ca.

Attention: Former WTA Members now covered by the Manulife Extended Health Plan.

This plan has been reviewed by WTA and there are changes effective March 1st 2017.

The existing rates have been increased for active and retired teachers by 7%.

The new rates for RETIRED TEACHERS are as follows Single $66.00 (was $61.68) Family $137.72 (was $128.71) The following improvements were made for retired teachers in classes B & H in the last two years: a. Paramedical $850/calendar year. (this year) b. Cardiac Rehab $500/lifetime (last year) For further information: Go to the WTA Newsletter or Michael Krauss @ 204-831-7104

Deadline for the Fall 2017 Edition of KIT is August 23, 2017.

All materials must be sent to dsage@mymts.net not later than 5:00 p.m.

RTAM.MB.CA n 31