Volume 23 | Number 3 | Winter 2011
The new office has much better access, being on the main floor of the building and lots of parking just outside the entrance. We now have two rooms for committee meetings in addition to the reception area.
Carol Gillis, Executive Assistant 113-1555 St. James St., Wpg., MB R3H 1B5 • Phone 889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 • Email: rtam@mts.net • www.rtam.mb.ca
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
The last week of September and October have been busy around the RTAM office. After our September board meeting, the office was disassembled and packed up and moved to a new office at Unit 113, 1555 St. James Street.
A special thank you goes to Barb Mc Dole, who has taken on the task of decorating the new office. She plans to find prints that represent the many parts of AlthoughManitoba.thehours of operation are the same (Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 to 1:00), we anticipate the many board committees will make good use of the new and improved office facilities.
RTAM OFFICE HAS MOVED By Wayne Hughes
You forget all the things you have accumulated and in many cases don’t need any longer. It’s amazing how much has been accomplished over the six years we have been at the Silver Heights location. We were able take some time during the move to “archive” a lot of material. The habits of teaching live on as we “found” a lot of extra copies which we contributed to the recyclers.
Please send all change of address material to TRAF at 949-0048 or toll-free at 1-800-782-0714 by mail/ change of address card to: TRAF, 330 Market, Winnipeg, MB R3T 4F8. RTAM/KIT can not change your mailing address.
EDITOR OF KIT
PRIVACY OFFICER
doreen sage Editorial - KIT Box Neepawa252 R0J 1H0 dsage@mts.net476-5772
82 Whiteshell Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2C 2R9 lwhughes@mts.net222-4011
John sushelnitsky
Judy olmstead 150 Daly Crescent Brandon R7A 6W3 571-0224
AGM 2012/Elections
Ye olde Rusty Golf tournament > 12 1951 normal School class c elebrate Diamond Jubilee > 13 Graysville School 1920-2010 > 14 new Rtam Board Member > 15 Water Ambassadors > 15 t he Mongolian Express, > 16 A Gap Adventure to Europe Misilla Mouse > 19
carol Pelton
818 Crescent Road West Portage la Prairie R1N 0Z1 jmsush@shaw.ca857-3014
WAyne hughes
directors-at-large
R Ich AR d R. BenoIT, PR esIden T
note
Phone: (204) 476-5772
only and no
please
dolores hebert
RICHARD BENOIT
Please
Val smyth Travel
42 Matlock Crescent Winnipeg R3R 3H7 831-6984
Website Box Virden202R0M 2C0 kayaker@rfnow.com748-1463
Barbara Mcdole
Email: dsage@mts.net
Emergency Medical travel insurance – t he claim Submission Process
dr. Mary Pankiw
Political Action Box Portage1325la Prairie R1N 3L5 mwiebe@mts.net857-9613
200 Point West Drive Winnipeg, MB R3T 5H7
writing. Photos by Canada Post please. tHA nkS FoR YouR cont RiButionS
inside this issue
Public MembershipRelations/&Chapter Liaison
110 Des Meurons Street Winnipeg R2H 2M3 dlhebert@shaw.ca233-8618
Ron Kalinchuk
200 Point West Drive Winnipeg, MB R3T 5H7 lbenoit@mts.net261-9839
Peggy Prendergast
By-Laws and Policy
JAg M A lIK, Treasurer P.O. Box 303 Gilbert Plains, MB R0L 0X0 jmlik@mts.net548-2642
111 Vista WinnipegAvenueR2M 4Y5 barbaramcdole@hotmail.com254-8965
2011 Acer- c art Agm > 4 Wellness Report > 6 Pensions c ommittee chair’s Report > 7 neepawa Area
Retired teachers' Association > 8 Manitoba normal School > 9 class o f 1952-1953 Reunion > 10
432 Avalon Road Winnipeg R2M 2L7 tedpoult@mymts.net253-0287
Anne Monk Pension 710 Campbell Street Winnipeg R3N 1C3 ammonk@mts.net586-7201
norman Wiebe
Box Neepawa,252 MB R0J 1H0
FREE PuBlic SERvicE AnnouncEMEntS
Benefits
AGM 2012/Elections
g e . (Ted) Poulter
100 Ridgedale Crescent Winnipeg R3R 0B3 valsmyth@shaw.ca889-9163
Phone: (204) 261-9839 Email: lbenoit@mts.net
23 Cornell Place Thompson R8N 0H4 Travelonly2@hotmail.ca677-3981
When
Vice President
DOREEN SAGE
Board of directors 2011-2012
President's Report > 3
2 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
We would like to thank all those who contributed material for KIT. sending in files use Word, black ink formatting keep
Not-for-profit organizations who wish to place public service announcements, volun teer opportunities with service groups, school or teacher reunions are encouraged to do so. Submissions are printed free of charge.
Educational Advocacy/Wellness 1 Bittersweet Bay Winnipeg R2J 2E5 ppeggy@mts.net257-1962
3. support/commitment to COLA improvement as a priority.Onlythe
Date: May 8, 2012
We all want to live to a ripe old age and enjoy experi ences we have not yet had time to live. Thus, wellness must assume more importance in our lives. The Wellness Committee at the provincial level organizes seminars mainly in Winnipeg but the members can assist chapters everywhere to organize such events. The Wellness Com mittee and the Chair Peggy Prendergast can also provide information and sources of information most valuable in helping create healthy minds and bodies. Teachers never condoned bullying or abuse and retired teachers do not either. This question of bullying, physical and psychologi cal abuse has dramatically and sadly reached the level of seniors. Once again, in cooperation with the Wellness Committee, explore and study these topics and besides informing yourselves, help prevent such abuse in assisted and personal care homes, in families and again in the community at large. The various levels of government are in dire need of our cooperation in striving to eliminate almost all, if not all elderly abuse.
Teachers are usually blessed with writing skills: some are poets, others reporters, others experts in short articles. Get in touch with Doreen, our KIT editor or Ron, our webmaster and contribute! If travel is of interest to you, at tend our annual seminar or, contact Val, our Travel Chair for assistance. John, our Public Relations, Membership and Chapter Liaison Chair is eager to seek new members, promote public relations and create new chapters. All of the above are a necessity in every organization and in RTAM; this committee would welcome new members andBenefitschapters.in
RTAM ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
RTAM requested:
2. support/commitment to significant COLA funding for a long term resolution;
CHAPTER PRESIDENT'S MEETING
regards to our various Johnson plans are being renegotiated this year. RTAM will be keeping you informed of these negotiations as they progress. It is im portant that you understand the Johnson plans as well as any other plan in which you participate. In regards to the Johnson ones in which we are directly involved, read KIT, our website and attend informational meetings. Chapter presidents will probably be invited to such a meeting regarding the progress of our negotiations. Ted Poulter, Turn to page 15
By richard Benoit
President's rePort
RtAM kit • 3Winter 2011
future will indicate the degree of success of our campaign. Two factors remain unchanged in regard to RTAM. This organization will always seek fairness and equity in regards to pensions and we will continue to inform our members, the public at large and politicians of our plight. To the main organizers of our campaign and to all who contrib uted, be proud of your actions and . . . thank you sincerely!
Place: v iscount Gort Hotel, Winnipeg
Date: May 9, 2012
RTAM have experienced a very busy fall season with the provincial election high on the agenda. Through the arduous, thoroughly professional and high quality work, members of the Political Action Committee (PAC) and of the Pensions Committee (in particular Anne, Wayne and Norm) prepared short, concise and extremely helpful documents for general use. RTAM, chapters and mem bers at large could then communicate with politicians of all stripes throughout Manitoba informing them and the general public about the COLA problem.
Some might consider that now, RTAM can rest and wait for another election, another urgent challenge facing our organization. Such is not the case. Did we as teachers and administrators stop and relax for a while before starting a new unit or new semester in the year? Definitely not. We hurriedly and enthusiastically embraced the new unit, the new period. And yes, we still have that drive, that determination, that enthusiasm to continue improving the future of our members throughout the province, in our chapters and communities.
As we become more mature in age, it seems as if time flies even faster . . . Manitobansunfortunately.ingeneral and
1. support/commitment to fairness for retired teachers;
Place: v iscount Gort Hotel, Winnipeg
There were 1492 website visits in 2010; a 14% increase over 2009. A special page detailing basic information about the Congress of National Seniors Organizations (CNSO) was added this year. Also, a federal election Q & A page was used. To celebrate the 20th anniversary, a photo and the biography of every Past President of ACER-CART was developed for access on the website's History page.
The 2011 Annual General Meeting of ACER-CART, held on June 3 and 4, 2011, was a special one for a number of reasons. As it was ACER-CART’s 20th anniversary, the AGM was preceded by a special session, on June 2, called by the 2010 - 11 President, Vaughn Wadelius. The objec tive was to focus on an Organizational Review leading to a strategic planning seminar. The input given is being used by the executive to continue the organizational review and prepare specific recommendations for the 2012 AGM.
Legislative Committee (Helen Biales, Chair)
There were no proposed amendments to the Articles and Bylaws received this year, but the Executive recommended and the AGM approved the addition of a policy on the Performance Appraisal of the Executive Director.
Annual reports from the ACER-CART committees provided a view of the many efforts, during the 2010-11 year, to advocate and publicize the positions proposed by ACER-CART.
Pension and Retirement Income Committee (Arnold Hull, Chair)
Health Services and Insurance Committee (Thomas Gaskell, Chair)
Johnson Inc.’s Lori MacDonald-Blundon gave a presenta tion to the delegates on "Out-of-Province/Canada Travel" which included the appropriate travel insurance coverage, key provisions in policies, de-bunking myths from facts and new developments for travel to certain destinations.
from Little Bras d’Or, NS, who also become vice-president; Québec: Ed Zegray (QART) from Montréal, QC; Ontario: Brian Kenny (RTO/ERO) from Burlington, ON; West: Dean McMullen (ARTA) from Vermilion, AB. The past president is Vaughn Wadelius (RTAM) from The Pas, MB.
2011 acer- cart agM
Communications Committee (Vaughn Wadelius, Chair)
The AGM itself was held once again at the Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) building. Twenty-six delegates, representing 12 (of 13) retired teacher organizations in Canada, gathered to address various reports and resolu tions from the Executive and Member Associations. This led to a fruitful discussion of events and issues were raised for future consideration.
The annual election brought about a change in some executive officers: Arnold Hull (RTO/ERO) from London, ON, was elected as president. The four Regional Repre sentatives are Atlantic: Dr. Thomas Gaskell (RTO-NSTU)
2011 - 12 Election of Officers
The committee continues to be concerned about drug pricing and the use of generic drugs and warned that there is still a need to focus on health care. It was encouraging that many provincial associations have taken an active role in contacting MPs and MLAs to express their concerns over health care.
Vaughn Wadelius
This committee acted on two 2010 AGM resolutions: that we lobby the federal government to increase CPP/QPP, OAS and GIS benefits and that we support Bill C-516 on the
4 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
Committee Reports
d) to urge the federal government to act, in conjunction
"Who could have predicted some of the major changes that took place following the 2010 annual general meeting? Two unforeseen issues – the loss of AREQ’s membership and the loss of CIDA funding for Project Overseas – in stigated action. Member association support for our col lective action on these and other issues was evident and much appreciated. The seminar discussions concerning our goals, the nature of our organization and our strategic priorities will, I hope, help us re-energize our focus in light of our organizational renewal.”
RtAM kit • 5Winter 2011
In gratitude for the support of ACER-CART Directors and Officers, this was the second year Recognition Certifi cates were presented to those retiring from the Board. This 20th anniversary AGM was also the occasion to recognize past presidents, past executive directors, The Canadian Teachers’ Federation and Johnson Inc. In addition, a 20th Anniversary Souvenir Booklet was specially prepared for the AGM Banquet, honouring those who have led and supported ACER-CART over the years.
automatic inclusion of eligible pensioners for GIS benefits. Pres ident Wadelius wrote the federal ministers responsible. On a mo tion to develop a position paper on poverty amongst older retired teachers, given its complexity, difficulty of obtaining relevant data and resources required, the committee concluded that this study was not feasible.
55th NORMAL SCHOOL REUNION
with the provinces, to establish a national formulary as well as a national drug plan.
2010-11 President Vaughn Wadelius commented:
b) to make Canadian adult passports effective for ten years
Other motions passed at the 2011 AGM were the following:
- Review its organizational structure and include consid eration of programs, expenditures and membership fees.
- Lobby the Government of Canada:
- Reaffirm its support for the five basic principles of the Canada Health Act (1984) and pursue the preservation of these principles (universality, access, comprehensiveness, portability and public administration).
Other Action Taken in 2010 - 11
CLASS of 1956-1957 Friday, June 22 and Saturday, June 23, 2012 c anad inn, Portage la Prairie at 2401 Saskatchewan Avenue, WES t
REGISTRATION: Friday, June 22 at 6:00 pm. Meet and Greet Activities: 6 to 9 pm. REGISTRATION AND LUNCHEON: Saturday, June 23, 2012, 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m. c ost of luncheon: $ 25 payable at time of registration. no cheques. Preferred room rates at the inn. Phone 1-888-332-2623 and quote Group #147764 inquiries: Janice kelly (McGregor) 204 252-2124; les Porteous (Portage la Prairie) 204-3184; Gloria Wilton (Winnipeg) 204 487- 6432
At the post-AGM Executive meeting, committee as signments were made. ACER-CART pledged to continue working with CNSO. The 2011 - 12 President Arnold Hull is its official representative and Vaughn Wadelius contin ues as treasurer.
a) to eliminate the tax on the CPP/QPP Death Benefit
c) to extend any tax credit for registration costs for well ness and/or recreation programs to seniors, similar to that provided for youth.
- Donate $500 to the Canadian Teachers' Federation Trust Fund, in gratitude for CTF support to ACER-CART
ACER-CART is a member of the Congress of National Seniors Organizations (CNSO) and President Wadelius was elected its Treasurer at its AGM in October, 2010. The 2010 -11 priorities of CNSO were: Aging in Place, Elder Abuse, Pharmacare. CNSO accepted three new associa tions for membership in 2011: HelpAge Canada; Canadian Gerontological Nursing Association (CGNA), National Initiative for Care of the Elderly/ Initiative nationale pour le soin des personnes ages (NICE).
To accept, with regret, the withdrawal of AREQ as a member, and to convey to AREQ sincere appreciation for its involvement and contributions during its membership in ACER-CART and extend an invitation to continue to work cooperatively to achieve shared objectives.
ACER-CART Positions Taken
Tobin, director for "Spirits Call Choir," was a very relaxing way to wind down our seminar. As Margaret had us share our individual connections with music, it was evident that music plays a part, no matter how small, in most people's lives. "Spirits Call Choir" offers the opportunity to people of varied backgrounds to participate, whenever possible, with this group, now celebrating their 10th Anniver sary. By joining, you can not only find your own personal harmony, you are able to partake in benefit concerts, that in turn benefit others!
Strong has been knitting since she was four years old! Ger dine has published books, one being Angels, A Knitter's dozen. These angels were darling!. She has also had her patterns published in "Canadian Living" and "Knitter's Magazine." Because Winnie the Pooh is associ ated with Assiniboine Park, she has clothed stuffed bears in a multitude of outfits and these bears are available at the Pavillion. Gerdine's sense of humour was evident as she modeled her knitted hat and face cover which she has named "Bandit." She knits socks that have a place for the big toe and showed us the Danish design, Dancing Grannies--everyone's in step but my Granny!!
Calver, a former elementary school principal, was the first speaker, addressing diet mentalities. She is a lecturer for Weight Watchers and has had her own personal journey with weight loss! She says that quite often, we associate the word "diet" with agony, deprivation, being hungry and having to eat boring foods. Diets should not mean that there are foods that you must not eat. Instead, the approach should be will power and moderation. We need to manage all foods and be in control. When you eat properly, you are not hungry. Be aware of your body's physical hun ger signs and eat in accordance to a schedule that works for you. Don't starve yourself, as that in turn affects your muscles and therefore, your me tabolism. Choose healthy foods from all the food groups, the more variety, the better. Don't eat something you don't like, instead, substitute it with something else. We tend to think of the duration of a diet as being some thing that is short lived; until we meet
Also new was the caterer for our lunch, St. James Healthy Lunch. We will certainly be doing business with them
session with Margaret
Theagain!!afternoon
submitted by Barbara Mcdole
Marge Hutlut from Creative Retire ment was available for the first part of the morning with the Fall, 2011 edi tion of "The Guide" which, as always, offers wonderful new courses, city tours, travel opportunities, health information and special interests
Gayleen Nixon, who is the Mani toba Chapter Coordinator for Project Linus, gave us the background on this very worthwhile organization. Project Linus was started in 1995 in Denver, Colorado, by Karen Baker. "Blanketeers" get together and make blankets/quilts, quite often accom panied by a stuffed bear, for chil dren in difficult situations in our local communities--cancer patients, Children's Wish Foundation, Step ping Stones ages 7-17, Camp Bridges (grieving children), in police cars and ambulances, neo-natal wards (preemie blankets and beenies) and Wish (women's shelter). Their motto is: "Nothing in Life is Free."
Wellness rePort
6 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
This is the first year the Wellness Committee has held a fall seminar, responding to the requests at the April, 2011, seminar evaluations. Participants were keen on having two programs a year and so our commit tee thought we'd give it a try. The Oc tober 26, 2011, Wellness Seminar was entitled,"Revisiting Past Pleasures."
sections.Nadine
our goal. Healthy eating should be an ongoing process, coupled with activ ity. You have shown yourself to have will power in previous life situations, so you CAN and WILL,when it comes to Aftereating.a nutritious health break, we had three presentations from three amazingConniecrafters.Drybrough, a quilter,brought beautiful samples of her work, ex plaining the different methods of quilting. She also spoke to the many courses she has attended world-wide, displaying examples and books. Con nie's end products are placemats, blankets, banners, quilts, table run ners, purses and fabric bowls, to name a few. Many of Connie's crafts are donated to Meals on Wheels, Cancer Care facilities, earthquake victims, Grandmothers for Africa and many other organizations that help those in Gerdineneed.
The positive responses of the Pro gressive Conservative and Liberal Parties, answering YES to our sur vey questions about a resolution of the COLA problem, is a major break through for RTAM. We now have
For several years RTAM has advo cated that the parties sit down and discuss a fair and long-term funding resolution of the COLA problem. While the PC and Liberal Parties have generally been supportive of RTAM, their responses to our questionnaire went a step further in indicating explicitly support for our positions regarding COLA improvement. In particular, the PC Party leader’s letter of intent accompanying his survey response made a direct com mitment to do just what RTAM has been advocating – to work with the parties to discuss a fair and long-term funding resolution on a priority basis. Similarly, the Liberal leader, consist ent with his historical support and positions, indicated significant sup port. The NDP, however, has shown no movement in its approach to the COLA problem.
The PC and Liberal Parties’ indica tion of support/commitment for our COLA approach and positions are a legacy from our election efforts on which RTAM can build in our on going advocacy efforts regarding a COLA resolution. In particular, the letter of intent provided personally by the PC leader to RTAM officials and directly to all members in our election mail-out can be regarded as a covenant with our 8000 members, a commitment to which the PC party should be held.
Pensions coMMittee chair’s rePort
parties and our rational and reason able positions. It has been a major ac complishment on the part of RTAM. Both the PCs and Liberals deserve our gratitude for the support they have provided to RTAM. Past and present Pensions and Political Action Committees, as well as various RTAM Boards, chapters and members who have supported and participated in our advocacy efforts, deserve a pat on the back.
• a special election section in KIT asking our members to get engaged in the campaign and providing ques tions to ask candidates;
submitted by anne Monk
As our members know, the RTAM Board took a neutral stance in the 2011 provincial election campaign, but viewed it as an opportunity to continue to profile the teachers’ COLA problem and advocate for a resolution. Four activities were the focus:
• plans for meetings with candidates by chapters and members;
Turn to page 8
• a questionnaire to candidates in the three main parties asking them about their support/commitment for COLA improvement, and a follow-up letter to members informing them of questionnaire results and allowing them the opportunity to make their own individual judgments about party responses.
one comment is noted for highlighting – that is, the NDP response to our question #3 regard ing support/commitment for similar significant COLA funding for retired teachers or a funding plan as has oc curred respectively for civil servants and nurses. The NDP states, “There has been some recent confusion re garding a number of developments in other pension plans and how these compare to TRAF.”
It is difficult for us to know the im pact of our efforts, but we do know that the survey responses produced significant results that were both a break through and a legacy for retired teachers regarding COLA improve ment.
Why a legacy?
In responding to our questionnaire, the NDP did not directly answer our questions but provided comment only. Its comments are familiar to RTAM and generally sidestepped addressing our direct questions about COLA improvement. RTAM has responded to these typical NDP comments in the past and briefly commented upon them in our election letter to our members.However,
• letters to the political parties regarding an RTAM AGM motion about COLA improvement;
This is not the first time the NDP has responded in this way to RTAM’s comments in particular about recent COLA funding for retired civil serv ants. A logical inference from this statement is that RTAM and retired
A Breakthrough and a Legacy
W ho’s conFused?
Why a break through?
RtAM kit • 7Winter 2011
This outcome is a result of our years of advocacy, our strategy of being neutral with respect to the political
two political parties indicating they are onside with RTAM regarding its approach for COLA improvement.
continued from page 7
submitted by the Program committee
narta rePort neePaWa area retired teachers' association
at the Civil Service Plan, for we are well researched and work in conjunc tion with pension professionals.
The NDP once again does not speak to our point. The question needs to be asked, “Who’s confused?”. Perhaps the NDP Research Director, who
provided the NDP response, should reconsider how he phrases his obvi ously tactical response. Otherwise, he runs the risk of us thinking he and his political masters are patronizing us and viewing us with condescension.
8 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
teachers are confused, that we don’t know the facts or simply do not un derstand. RTAM has never said what the NDP is implying we have said –that the $145 million transfer to the Civil Service Plan COLA account is “government money.” We understand the facts and nature of the transaction
On September 12, 2011, NARTA members held their first meeting of the fall session. The group decided to invite the four poliitical candidates to an informational meeting, where candidates could explain their respec tive party platform on COLA and education.Thismeeting
was held on Septem ber 26. Attending were: Stuart Briese, PC; Gary Sallows, Liberal; Kate Sto rey, Green Party.
Pensions .
On October 5, NARTA members went on their annual fall trip. This year, it was a trip to Sandy Lake to see Earl Symond's model railroads and trains; a visit to the museum, with a local guide; and lunch at Gen erations Tea Room. Some members then toured the Catholic churches, each with a local guide.
The next meeting will be on No vember 28, 2011.
. .
RtAM kit • 9Winter 2011
Left to right: Andy Koshelanyk, Georgina Cuthbert, Al Borys, Bessie-Marie Hill, Cy Nimchuk, Stan Sokalski, Freddie Borys, Wally Stoyko, Eileen Sokalski
old time, toe-tapping music and even square dances. Many dancers took advantage of the great music. Class photos were taken as a memento of a wonderful event.
many people took advantage of a tour to the Aviation Museum; eleven braved the windy weather and golfed. At noon, we toured the old Normal School build ing and had lunch there. It was fun to walk through those halls again, which brought back many memories. Some toured the Museum of Man and Nature in the afternoon. A banquet and dance was held in the evening, with music by the South Glen Fiddlers, who provided us with great
text and photo: eileen sokalski
Wednesday morning, everyone gathered once again for a delicious brunch. “Open mic” provided many laughs. Entertainment was supplied by a musical group, ' Misbe havin'. A special tribute was given honouring the deceased members. Everyone said their good-byes and hoped to meet again for our 60th reunion.
The Manitoba Normal School class of 1952-1953 cel ebrated its 58th anniversary on September 12, 13 and 14, 2011. The event was held at Canad Inns (Polo Park) in Winnipeg. About 96 alumnae and guests, from as far away as British Columbia and Montreal, enjoyed remi niscing and renewing friendships during the wonderful three-day event. It featured a wine and cheese reception on Monday evening with great music supplied by the old Normal School orchestra, which we used to dance to in theOncanteen.Tuesday,
ManitoBa norMal school class of 1952-1953 reunion
Al Borys has agreed to maintain and update the data base of contact information. If you know of a change of address or the passing of an alumna, please email Al at alborys@mts.net.
Missing in the photos: Joyce Tomchuk, Una Kuran, Joyce Kohut, Lorne Ferley
A survey was taken and the general consensus was for a reunion to be held in two years’ time, which will be our 60th. The next reunion will be held in Gimli, September 9, 10 and 11, 2013.
Members of the Organizing Committee
Desjardins Financial Security (DFS) is the insurer of RTAM's Emergency Medical Travel Insurance Plan. When notified of a Travel Claim by Sigma, DFS sends the member instructions and forms for completion of the claim submission process. DFS reimburses eligible expenses, and applies any benefits and policy limitations (as de fined in the Certificate of Insurance).
the reimbursement with the prov ince.Johnson Inc. (Johnson) assists members with the Travel claims proc ess as needed - to clarify coverage, confirm eligibility, and communicate with Sigma and DFS regarding a specific situation. As group benefits consultant and plan administrator, Johnson advises RTAM on plan de sign, enrols RTAM Members in the Group Benefits Program and answers any inquiries members have.
Sigma Assistel (Sigma) a whollyowned subsidiary of Desjardins Fi nancial Security (DFS), and they are the assistance partner for the Travel benefit. Sigma is the members’ first point of contact in the event of an emergency. They open their claim file, verifying eligibility, referring them to the closest appropriate medical facility, and guiding them through their claim process. Sigma staff are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to assist you in the event of an emergency while you travel.
note: your provincial government is first payer for health expenses. All supplementary insurance polices re quire your provincial plan coverage to be in place. For more information on the Manitoba government cover age, visit the website www.manitoba. ca/health or call the number on the back of your Manitoba Health card 1-800-392-1207.Anadvantage of joining RTAM
1.Who are the RTAM group Ben efits Program partners for e mer gency Medical Travel, and what is their role in the claim submission process?
Before Travel Emergency Treat ment - You should always call Sigma before you seek emergency medical treatment, (or in the event of a Trip Cancellation claim prior to departure or a Trip Interruption post departure). This call to Sigma’s 24-hour assistance centre will ensure you are directed to the nearest appropriate medical facility, your eligibility is verified, and that there are no delays in treatment. At the first onset of symptoms of an Emergency, contact Sigma. If you are unable to do so immediately because you are medically incapacitated, someone else (a family member, friend or travel companion) must contact Sigma within 24 hours or as soon as is reasonably possible. Otherwise, eligible expenses will be limited to $2,000. Note that a phone call to Sigma to report the claim will be considered “Notice of Claim” under the policy terms in the Certificate of Insurance.
10 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
This article will expand on the claims submission process through both the RTAM Plan and Manitoba Health, in the event of a medical emergency by answering a series of questions:
Travel insurance is designed to pay for certain unexpected medical travel costs that may arise when you are travelling outside of Canada or your home province, over and above your provincial health insurance coverage, which may only pay some portion of these expenses.
Because your provincial government is first payer for health expenses you incur while travelling, DFS integrates
eMergency Medical traVel insurance – the claiM suBMission Process
Johnson, inc.
The RTAM Benefits Committee has partnered with each of the following organizations to deliver to the RTAM Members valuable benefits services and support. In the order of contact in the event of a claim, the partners are Sigma Assistel, Desjardins Financial Security and Johnson Inc.
is having access to one of the most comprehensive voluntary emergency medical travel insurance plans avail able in the marketplace to education sector retirees. The spring 2011 issue of KIT outlined the comprehensive features, including trip cancellation insurance, recent enhancements (a 62-day base plan and a $2 million lifetime maximum per insured), and what happens in the event of a medi cal emergency. Full Plan details for RTAM members are outlined in the Certificate of Insurance, as posted on the website www.johnson.ca/rtam.
2.When should I call s igma? Before, during and after a Travel emergency?
As mentioned above, although your provincial government is first payer for health expenses you incur while travelling, DFS will reimburse all of the expenses eligible under your contract so you will receive your reim bursement as soon as possible. As DFS does not yet have an agreement with Manitoba Health to submit the claim to them on the insured member’s be half, you must sign and return to DFS a Reimbursement Agreement form (provided to you with your Claim form). By signing this form, you agree to submit your original invoices to the Manitoba government and reimburse DFS any partial amounts you will re ceive from them. If you do not submit a claim to the government, DFS will ask you to reimburse to them the amount you would have received from the provincial government.
During Travel Emergency Treat ment – In the event of a medical emergency in travel for which you have already contacted Sigma, you must provide updates of any changes in your medical condition, or should additional testing/referrals be re quired.After
6.What would cause a delay in the payment of invoices due to us hospitals and when would collection agencies be involved?
3.What is the process for submit ting and processing an emergency medical claim?
For emergency health care ex penses, the insured must complete a form called, "Claim Form – Expenses Incurred outside the Province of resi dence or country". This form will be provided by DFS as soon as a notice of a claim is submitted to Sigma and/ or DFS, within 30 days of the medical emergency. The claimant must also complete the Reimbursement Agree ment. Depending on the medical emergency that occurred during the trip, DFS may ask for the claim form, "Attending physician's statement" to be completed by your physician (there is no need to complete this form un less instructed to do so by the insurer). For all out-of-pocket emergency medical expenses paid directly by the claimant, original bills and proof of payment will be requested.
evidence of the emergency situation which caused the cancellation or delay;
When a claim or bill is received, DFS assessors make sure all required information is included. If more in formation is required, the assessor contacts the member or the third party to gather any additional in formation. All invoices and medical facility billings are reviewed by DFS assessors, and for complex situations,
Billing practices vary by facil ity. While nearly all of these claims payment negotiations are smooth and prompt, on some rare occasions
4.What claim forms must be completed and what receipts are required for payment of a claim?
Although your provincial govern ment is first payer for health expenses you incur while travelling, DFS will reimburse all of the expenses eligi ble under your contract so you will receive your reimbursement as soon asThepossible.goal of DFS and Sigma is to provide the best client service pos sible as RTAM’s emergency travel provider. When a member contacts Sigma, DFS sends claim forms im mediately. Members are encour aged to return these forms and any required documents to DFS as soon as possible. Throughout the process, the member is supported by DFS call centre agents, who provide help on any claims related issue (completing the forms, inquiries, etc.).
For Trip Interruption or Trip Can cellation claims, the cancellation In surance claim form will be provided by DFS as soon as a notice of a claim is submitted to Sigma and/or DFS. If the cancellation is the result of a medi cal problem or a natural death, the medical statement on the reverse side of this form must also be completed by the family physician. The claim ant will have to provide the invoice from their travel service supplier with details of the intended travel arrangements. When applicable, you must provide DFS with the following information:1)Documentary
Turn to page 20 RtAM kit • 11Winter 2011
2) Proof that a portion of the travel arrangement costs are non-refund able;
Travel Emergency Treat ment – Once your assistance file is complete, claims issues should be addressed to the coordinates provided on forms provided by DFS. In the event no such forms are received, you should notify Sigma so the situation can be rectified.
5) Any tickets or receipts for any extra transportation cost incurred
Most US healthcare providers rou tinely bill international insurance companies at market rates for medical services. For this reason, all travel in surers, including DFS, negotiate lower reimbursement rates.
5.Why must I submit my claim to Manitoba health as well as to sigma/dFs?
3) Any unused transportation tickets;4)Any receipts for land arrange ments and out-of-pocket expenses,
by the DFS medical director.
TheEriksdale.overallwinners
In all, 152 golfers enjoyed themselves in the glorious sunshine while all their younger colleagues in the Province put in their first day in the classroom. Foursomes came from all over the Province with Winnipeg leading the pack with 10 teams, Brandon with 3, Minnedosa 4, St. Pierre Jolys and Eriksdale with 2 each and single teams from Carman, Hamiota, Cartier, Neepawa, Lorette, Morden, Dauphin, Elie, Roblin, St. Andrews, Gladstone, Stonewall and
AfterBrandon.awarm
12 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
afternoon of golfing a delicious meal was served at the Neepawa Legion hall and prizes were passed out. The Olde Rusty Putter was passed on to Swan River ho will host this event next September.
ye olde rusty golf tournaMent
The annual retired teachers' golf tournament, affection ately known as the Ye Olde Rusty Classic, was held, as always, on the first day of school in the fall. This year's classic, open to all retired Manitoba teachers and their significant others, was held at the Neepawa Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, September 6, 2011.
with a score of 61 were from Rob lin -- Hugh Newton, Court Reyda, Bob Lovatt and Rod Brown. The Winnipeg team of Fred Erb, Ted Redekop, Walt Menzies and Tom Forrest won the first flight with a score of 68. A score of 71 by the Winnipeg team of Jim Logan, Alex Bertrand, Janine Bertrand and Alphonse Bertrand won the second flight. The third flight winners with a score of 75 were the all female team of Dawn Curtis, Lynda Nayakamann, Connie Chudley and Sylvia Taggart from
poem, Harry Backlin and Roy White, former student body president, read the Memorial List.
Some Normalites who came long distances were: Jean Tully (Nanaimo), Harry Backlin (Prince George), Leon Stocki (Grassland, AB), Ruth Arm son (Whitehorse), Genvieve Majcher
Special thanks to the organizing committee co-conveners: Pat Chal lis and Olive Johnson, Dorothy Haithewaite, Vera Skayman, Dorothy Day, Betty Summer, Steve Stasiuk, Shirley Maurice, Elaine Rex and Glad wyn Scott. Reunion profits of $534 were split between Sun Fund for Kids and Ronald McDonald House.
1951 norMal school class celeBrate diaMond JuBilee
(Powell River, BC), Marion Duggon (Toronto), Wilma Treloar (Three Hills, AB), Sarah Muir (Carnduff, SK), Clarice Hobson (Vancouver), Rose McIvor (Moose Jaw), Carl Braun and Harry Rudy (Calgary). These long distance travellers each received a small gift.
Class G: left to right, back row: Marguerite Chrustie, Harry Rudy, Dorothy Haithwaite; front: Doris Kristjanson, Gladwyn Scott, Arise Kondziela
gladwyn scott
Left to right: Dorothy Haithwaite, Wananesa; Ena Sparrow, Brandon; Audrey Coulson, Oak River; Olive Johnson, Cyprus River; Vera Skayman, Brandon
Seventy-two members of the 195051 Manitoba Normal School Class cel ebrated its Diamond Jubilee Reunion at the Canadian Mennonite Univer sity, September 17 and 18, 2011.
RtAM kit • 13Winter 2011
The Sunday morning Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiv ing was led by Steve Stasiuk, with a very thoughtful message delivered by Gerry Hildebrand, who was our graduation valedictorian 60 years ago. Pianist, Dr. Carl Braun, accompanied the choir, led by Peggy Lawrence. After Dorothy Haithewaite lit the Memory Candle and read a special
Some highlights included a tour of Ye Ole Normal School by C.M.U. students: Chapel, Dining Hall, new gymnasium, former residence and classrooms. Everyone could not believe how the Chapel and Dining Hall had diminished in size!!! Plenty of time was allocated for visiting and reminiscing.
A grand total of 102 registered for the “Last Hurrah,” although annual luncheons will continue in Winnipeg on the third Saturday in June and at Brandon in early September.
Everyone enjoyed two sumptuous meals served by King Cole Catter ing in the former Dining Hall. Some programs included: open-mike ses sions, piano entertainment by Doreen Stapleton and power point pictures of former reunions by Doug Johnson.
Class H: Left to right: Audrey Coulson, Shirley Maurice, Steve Stasuik, Olive Johnson, Leon Stocki
graysVille school - 1920-2010
if you were on Parental leave while you were an active teacher, please remember, that you have until December 31, 2011, to apply to t RAF for credit on your pension. it is possible to transfer RRSP money to pay for this credit. Retirees must apply before age 71. See "Fall 2011 kit, page 26," for details.
14 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
numerous active teachers purchased term life insurance through the Manitoba teachers' Soci ety. t his group plan ceases for individuals once you reach age 70. t he purpose of this note is to inform you that, since Sun life is the carrier, there is the potential to continue in a Sun life Plan in a more seamless manner. However, this is the responsibility of the individual by contacting a Sun life representative. Moving to another life insurance carrier is another possibility by personal choice.
Many stories were told and socializing with friends, many of whom we hadn’t seen in years, was a wonderful part of the reunion. The reunion was a great success.
it would be a big undertaking but we were determined to hold a reunion before the school was sold. Our first task was to find the names of all the students who had attended. The archives had student lists from 1920 –1965. With the help of the Prairie Rose School Division, who had the registers, we were able to find students from 1966 – 2010. Using the telephone, email, Facebook, and word of mouth, we were able to locate most of the students, former teachers, and custodians.
A reunion committee came together in April of 2011 made up of Judie Owen, Ethel Hook and Carrol Bruce. We three had attended the Graysville School from Grade 1 to We12.knew
Graysville School, in a small hamlet seven miles west of Carman, Manitoba, closed its doors June 30, 2010. The school and property were put up for sale.
LIFE INSURANCE INFORMATION
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
Our reunion was held July 30, 2011, with more than four hundred people attending from Ontario to British Columbia and the USA. The day began with the singing of O Canada and raising the flag. Candice Hoeppner, Mem ber of Parliament for Portage La Prairie; Blaine Pedersen, Member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba; and Elaine Owen, a board member of the Prairie Rose School Division were our guest speakers. Neil MacNair, a former student and a local resident who also had two sons attend the school, reminisced of how education had changed from his parents’ era to the closing of the school. Memorabilia was on display and many people had the opportunity to tour the school. A skit took place with Dorothy Hudson, teacher, trying to control her classroom.
What a memorable day.
A book titled “Graysville School 1920-2010 and its Com munity” was put together by the reunion committee with the help from the community.
submitted by carrol Bruce
two fully furnished condos for rent (one & two bedrooms). www.29desertsunescape.com; k athy Robins 1-519-720-0267; krobins29@hotmail.com
A cold plate supper was served. George Baker, ninety eight years young, and a grade one student in 1920, cut the cake. After the supper, there were races for the children.
URGENT: FINAL NOTICE
Almost one billion people lack access to clean water. About half the world doesn’t have use of a toilet. Women and children spend hours walking an average of four miles a day carrying buckets of water that weigh 40 pounds. (6 km/20kg).In2003,
ne W rtaM Board MeMBer
Water aMBassadors canada
RtAM kit • 15Winter 2011
Heather and Barry with Jaime Torres in Guatemala.
Barry and Heather went on their first mis sion trip to Guatemala to install a water well in a poor village. This experience was life changing. They formed a nonprofit, faith based charity called Water Ambassadors Canada.Sincethen,
Throughout my career professional development was al ways an interest and priority of mine. I served on many professional development and curriculum development committees at the school, division, and provincial levels. I was also actively involved with the MTS Status of Women in Education Committee, and served as the chair of its Re source Team.
President's report . . . from page 3
Generally, our chapters are vibrant and very active. Strive to activate them still more, to organize many parties and outings as well as business meetings. Above all, help serve and enjoy through and because of RTAM. Besides rejuvenating yourself, you will help bring joy to other col leagues who are not as fortunate as you are.
It was never Barry’s nor Heather’s intention to retire and become ‘water missionaries’. But this new direction has completely changed their lives as well as the Canadians who go to help. It has also changed the lives of the people who receive the water.
If you would like to consider joining on a water team or to donate to water projects please visit our web site: www. waterambassadorscanada.org. See ad page 22.
Barry says, “Helping to give clean water is an incredible life changing experience. You are stretched a bit. You enter a village a little bit fearful but after getting to know the people there you leave (tearfully) as friends.”
As an administrator I was actively involved in the Win nipeg Principals' and Vice-Principals' Association.
By Barry hart
Formerly a secondary school teach er, guidance counsellor, and school administrator, I have been retired from the Winnipeg School Division for the past 10 years.
our Chair, Carol and members of his committee can be of assistance to you. In regards to contact numbers for other plans, contact your insurer or, if you cannot think of a first contact, contact Carol at the office.
Thus RTAM must march on and onward not only re garding justice in financial matters, but also in the many areas listed above. Reach out, and others will reach out to you. Help others and they shall reciprocate. Get involved and enjoy.
I have been a member of the RTAM Board in the past, serving on various committees. I believe in the work that the Board does to further the well-being of our retired teachers.
Lors des jours de notre jeunesse, le temps des fêtes nous apportait beaucoup de joie de vivre, de belles soirées et de moments de paix! Puisse cette saison nous bénir de ces expériences et ce même, tout au long de 2012.
Val Smyth
Barry Hart is a retired high school science teacher. A few years after retiring, he was at a conference with his wife Heather, where the message about the lack of clean water in the world went from their heads to their hearts.
Finally, as the year draws to an end, I wish you peace, happiness and good cheer with loved ones and friends during the holidays! May 2012 bring you health, joy and love! Are these not the attributes of retired teachers generally?
200 to 300 Canadians have gone on 100+ projects to Central America, the Caribbean and Africa, drilling water wells, repairing wells, installing purifier units and distributing water filters. Teaching proper hy giene practices is included.
William taylor
Every traveller has a dream destination. Mine had always been the Great Wall of China and travelling on the Trans Siberian Express. While surfing the internet, hoping to connect the two, I blundered onto a web page that outlined tour companies that offered exactly that.
Along the adventure trails, I kept jottings in a small book, which I shared with family and friends from in ternet cafes, when available. It was, for me, an adventure of a lifetime. I would like to share a few of the highlights from my jottings.
16 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
March 26, 2011. 7:00 a.m. and I seem to have missed a day or two and lots of sleep. Neverthless, I am in Beijing! The Beijing airport is immense, new and impressive. Where are all the hordes of this one billion, plus, nation. Our flight is the only group in this cavernous structure. It took 10 minutes to clear customs and go forth into an array af immaculately dressed, white-gloved, young military personnel.
All signs are in Chinese and English. Even on their ef ficient underground, one can hear the stops repeated in English and a London-style tube sign on the doors of the carriages, 'Mind the Gap'!
A group of giggling young school kids ran up to us and stood staring and smiling. At their teacher's prompting, they chorused out, "Good morning.” This, we discovered, had exhausted their English vocabulary, but they were thrilled that they could 'speak English'; not one of us could respond, in kind, in Chinese!
The expressway to the centre was bounded by immacu late-tended greenery; pussy willows, flowers, green grass
the Mongolian e XPress, a gaP adVenture to euroPe
and trees and no snow! What a pleasant reception to Bei jing! Wide avenues, imposing buildings. Where are the throngs I had expected; the streets seem deserted. This country has prefected commercialism. There are shops, restaurants and cafes everywhere.
The cost of a taxi to the city centre was at least $60. If there was another way, there was no way I was going to pay that. That can buy a lot of rice, folks! I asked a young soldier and he said there were busses going to the centre for only 16 Yuan. I wasn't the only frugal person in China. Even the bus driver wore white gloves.
March 26, 2011. As I strolled the neighbourhoods adja cent to our hotel, I noticed the small cafes and a myriad of small closet-sized eateries and shops full of people eating from very large bowls, steaming hot! When in Rome! At lunchtime, I observed, I ordered, I enjoyed; a huge full bowl of steaming hot noodles, vegetables and chunks of meat (don't ask), plus a side tray of small dishes of brightly coloured, pickled vegetables. An icy cold, 700 ml bottle soothed jet lag immediately. Who needs to know what day it is, anyway? All this delicious meal for about $4.00.
It is a 21-day adventure, called The Mongolian Express. It departs out of Beijing, on The Mongolian Express train system, to Ulan Bator, and from there, via the Trans Si berian Express, to Irkutsk, Ekaterinburg, Moscow and St. Petersburg, with many station stops along the way. The next tour reverses the order.
March 24, 2011. I rushed to the Winnipeg airport, di rectly from an RTAM meeting for the long haul to Beijing via Chicago and Frankfurt.
March 27, 28 (internet dates). Well, I've found the peo ple. Thousands of Chinese tour groups fill Tienanmen Square, a square the size of Winnipeg, it seems. Mao's tomb is closed for some reason. I can see Mao's giant portrait, which is repainted every year, for the past 25 years, by the same artist, on the wall over the entrance to the Forbid den City. He keeps a watchful eye on his people. Everyone passes strict airport-like security gates to enter the Tienan men Square. So don't take your guns to town, son!
This is the cleanest city I’ve ever visited. An army of uniformed workers keeping the streets, boulevards im maculate. I dropped a Kleenex one day and suffered a sprung spine and a guilty conscience on the split second swoop up; I had been noticed.
When I clicked on one of the links, to my surprise, it was a tour company of our very own, that offered the soughtfor tour, several times each year; GAP Adventure Tours, with head offices in Calgary.
2, 2011. Ulan Bator, the Mongol capital. We are in Mongolia, the land of quaint but happy yak herders, supping on fermented mare's milk and cavorting merrily outside their yurts with their wild ponies. That from the romantic stories of Highroads to Reading, of our oneroomed school days. Later, I was glad I'd kept that bit of lore to myself!
We crossed the entrance bridge into the moated and walled world of the former emperors of China. Who knew it would take half of the day just to walk through it? If I had lost the guide, I would still be there, roaming the maze of passageways, winding through magnificent temples, gardens and palaces. How large is it? At one time, it housed the emperor, servants, his ministers of state, the royal family and 20,000 concubines! An exhausting place in more ways than one.
During the years of the Soviet occupation, the unique Mongolian script was dropped in favour of the Russian Cyrillic alphabet. Many of the Buddhist temples were either destroyed or closed; in a nation of 70% followers of Tibetan Buddhism. Well, the magnificent are back and so is their script, but only in the schools and on government publications. All signage is in Mongolian and English.
The new golden-domed parliament building, both modern and majestic, dominates the central city square. A huge statue of Genghis Khan (whose hero-worship the Russian had forbidden) adorns the grand staircase leading up to the main entrance.
of these? I am tall and am certain my feet would be on the ground, ready to help one of the unfortunates bear me across the desert. I do see microwave towers and lots of well-maintained fences, belying the wasteland impres
Not one yak in sight!
April 3, 4, 2011. We travelled 35 km out of the capital, to the colossus built to honour the national hero at the site of his birth. Of course, we had stopped at one of the
The shopped-lined streets are packed with slim, hand some, well-dressed and mostly young, people, who all seem to be texting on their cellphones! Sales spill out onto stalls on the street. This is a fun, happy city and it's booming. I notice a lot of Gucci, Hermes and Tag Heuer displays in department store windows, right up there with endless arrays of beautiful cashmere clothing.
March 30, 2011. Our training begins! We boarded the Mongolian Express at Beijing's central railway station, for a 35-hour, cross-Mongolia journey, to their capital, Ulan Bator.
It is a very modern city of 1 million, in a country of only 2 1/2 million. The 1 million sq km country is not over crowded. The city sure is. It is bursting at the seams. Fuelled by a wealth of minerals and petroleum, the streets are clogged with bumper-to-bumper shiny new cars. An interesting side note: there is an evenly-divided number of right and left-hand drives, depending from where they are bought; right-hand from Japan, left-hand from China and elsewhere. It is sunny and crisp, but no snow. Ulan Bator is on the 47th parallel of latitude. Green grass, lots of trees and many, many small, twittering birds. The city is framed by a picturesque backdrop of low mountains.
RtAM kit • 17Winter 2011
March 29, 2011: 6:00 am In a tour van (we are seven) on the way to welcome a new dawn from the ramparts of the Great Wall of China. We did arrive at the site in time to get the dazzling effects of a gorgeous sunrise. Thankfully, I didn’t take my camera. Most watch it through a camera lens. Of course, we arrived before the cable cars opened, that carry tourists up the hill to one of the entrances at the top of the many-turreted wall. Gasping, not at the beauty, but at the 997 steps it took to get up the grand staircase, to the ramparts. There are many landing stages to catch the view and your breath, which I had trouble finding. It's all been said before. To encapsulate, stunning.
As in Europe, the train carriages have three classes of sleeping compartments. The second-class carriages have 4-berth (bunks) to a compartment. Compartments line only one side of the carriage, with a long carpeted cor ridor running the full length. There are two toilets, one at each end. There is an attendant (more on that later), each passenger is his own porter. A package with sheets, pillowcase and one towel, to be strictly accounted for, is handed out upon entering the carriages. Four well-fed tourists are at close quarters, believe me. Forget modesty and privacy; hopefully there is no snorer in the cell when the compartment door is closed for the night. Our group of six, plus the leader, shared two compartments for the eight nights we would be hotelling on the trains. Berths and carriages are on your ticket, at purchase time. We had a happy, congenial, fun time on those trains.
March 31, 2011. We are in Mongolia! All day, mile after mile, hour after hour, a treeless and flat expanse of desert-like landscape devoid, pretty much, of any vegeta tion. I can see the sandy soil is dotted with tufts of grass and I often see small herds of tiny antelopes. I spotted lots of shaggy, small horses wandering at will. How did corpulent Genghis Khan ever ride off to victory on one
sion.April
The Tsars didn't like Moscow, either. So, Peter the Great built his eponymous capital on the Gulf of Finland.
This 2004 colossal monument, topped with a 150 foothigh glittering stainless steel statue of Genghis Khan mounted on his steed dominates the skyline. The immense site is gated with an arch bearing the statues of his generals and is surrounded by his war camp of 200 yurts; a mu seum and interpretive centre is in the structure beneath the statue. An elevator whisks visitors up to the observation deck, which surrounds the horse's hoofs. It is as amazing as the pyramids of Giza.
After 75 years of mind-numbing dictatorship, I suppose one should be more charitable. However, the dour, grim service in all the shops I entered seems to be an inherited leftover from the people's paradise. This massive city has been cleaned up and all its marvellous buildings, statues, fountains and parks as well as the renowed subway system, are in mint condition,
No one who had ever visited, during the grim USSR days, would recognize the commercialized capital, nor their largest department store, GUM. Unless you are weighted down with golden roubles, skip the first few, upper-class floors of exclusive shops and head to their top-notch, “People's-era” cafeteria.
18 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
EveryRail?carriage,
April 5, 6, 2011. The Trans Siberian to the Siberian megalopolis, Irkutsk, a huge, very attractive city.
We spent one night in a genuine yurt camp. There were even real yaks to fulfil my romantic dreams. I was impressed by the very spacious and beautifully carved interiors of the yurts. The yurts were furnished with four large, authentically hand crafted, brilliant beds and a large open family space whose centre was taken up by the low, portable wood-burning (dung-burning) stove. There were three of us per yurt. There was no snow in this hilly valley. The nights did get down to -2C (T-shirt weather on Canadian playgrounds) and the stove had to be fed regularly. This job was assigned to me by Australian and Dutch yurtmates, as I carry farmer's blood in my veins. I didn't let the old farm down. In fact, I didn't let the farmer (me) down very much during that stove-tending night. William the Stoker.
Aprl 9, 2011. Two days and two nights, while our electri fied train crosses the Siberian boreal forests; clones of our northern Manitoba one. It’s a long tramp from Irkutsk to Ekaterinburg on the Ural Mountain gateway to Europe.
whether in Mongolia or Russia, has a very large samovar of boiling hot water at the end of the corridor, available 24/7 for tea, instant coffee or the ubiq uitous noodle pots; all of these may be purchased on board at all stops. On the Mongolian Express, they were heated with charcoal. All the Russian trains are electric.
April 12, 13, 2011. Moscow, unfortunately, for a first impression, covered with snow and more falling, mixed with cold rain and sleet. Red Square looks particularly despondent. It seems to match the moods and service of the shopkeepers. They have a lot to learn from China on Business 101.
The following day, we travelled to Lake Baikal, for a two-day tour and home visit. There were two of us per private home. The Dutch lad and I lucked out. Though our hostess couldn't speak English, she cooked spectacularly in Russian. We feasted on every known Russian delight. She looked nonplussed when we couldn’t get enough potatoes. There had been long, rice-filled days preceding our Russian stay. There is open water on Lake Baikal.
At all Russian stops, babushkas (grandmothers) sell delicious and very inexpensive ($3-$4) packaged snacks: boiled potatoes, blinis, perogies, pickles, meat patties and excellent homemade breads. There are also kiosks that sell just about everything.
I must digress, for a moment, to the compartmental life on the train. Each carriage has a harridan attendant; to be fair, we encountered one jovial and kind one on the St. Petersburg Express. In Soviet-style military uniforms, she rules the carriage. Her sceptre of power, the very large key that locks the toilets. At her whim, usually on the stroke of
prayer mounds, along the highway, to offer up our humble petitions as we circled the mound three times, tossing the obligatory three small stones--not easy in a desert.
April 11, 2011. Ekaterinburg , Russia, gateway to Eu rope. The site of the murder of Tsar Nicholas II and all the royal family. This is a beautiful city of 1.6 million. The communists had closed or destroyed most of Russia's churches. The golden domes are gleaming now throughout all of Russia. Ekaterinburg has a palace for visiting presi dents (Medvedev at present). A newly-constructed seven golden-domed Orthodox Cathedral honouring the seven members of the royal, now sainted family, stands on the site of their murder. It is truly magnificent
a full bladder, these are firmly and magisterially locked by the petty tyrant. No amount of cross-legged pleading will thaw her resolve. This I know. Old soviet Russia lives on in many facets of Russian society. A lesson to be learned by Via
This story combines reality with fantasy in an interesting way.
RtAM kit • 19Winter 2011
April 14, 15, 16, 2011. St. Petersburg. Even the sun joined in the celebration of this city of splendour. This is a rival of any European or South American capital. Endless canals, lined with gleaming palaces and Victorian-like edifices. This city was built on a grand scale and it is grand. This is Europe and, boy, can you see the difference. Cannot believe
Reading Misilla Mouse is an enjoyable and rewarding way to increase vocabulary and build lanuage repertoire. This story exposes the child to experiences, portrayed in a positive light, by Misilla Mouse and her friends as she excitedly prepares for a Christmas fun party for her friends.
Written by dr. Mary Pankiw, illustrated by nadya Pankiw
Misilla Mouse
Bouquets of flowers and bunches of pussy willows are being sold on the street corners. There are kiosks of fresh fruit and the bakeshops are a lure not to be missed. It is very sunny and very warm.
this is still Russia; vibrant, dynamic city, whose crown jewel is the Winter Palace. The Winter Palace, or more commonly, The Hermitage, is an all-day of discovering the complexities of palaces. How did the royal families find each other at supper time? We all love this city. I am taking an extra three days to just shop and explore this marvel . . . coffee shops everywhere!
dr. Mary Pankiw nadya Pankiw
PO goes on to list the government contributions against the liability and subsequent changes in calculations.
PO: 2. The Pension Task Force is a statutory body created by the government. By statute, MTS represents all pension plan members, both active and retired.
Here are the facts:
david Mcdowell
D: Why is it that MTS takes such an adversarial stance against according RTAM members a voice? Surely representation means open dialogue and movement towards accommodation of the views of a group that all teachers are soon to be joining?
The long-fought battle is that that position is a "grace-and-favour" appointment and MTS was silent when, last summer, a private member’s bill sought to have a permanent member in the legislation.
7.Where can more information be found?
Sigma Assistel www.assistel.com 1-877-775-3695 Desjardins Financial Security 1-888-732-3212www.desjardinslifeinsurance.com
Paul Olson concluded with a call to vote for the candidate of our choice. As our non-elected representative, he has, by his own admis sion, taken on the representation of a group, yet he gives short shrift to open communication. This does little to bridge that gap. I ask him to justify why we should continue to accord him allegiance.
they may continue over the course of several weeks or longer. In a small percentage of such instances, the medical provider may try to "shortcircuit" the process and apply pressure on DFS by attempting to collect the undiscounted charges directly from the patient.
20 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
1. A retired teacher already sits at the TRAF table. The NDP government appointed a retired teacher as one of the government nomi nees.D:
D: While some of these measures were necessary to keep the plan viable and meet the long-warned-about deficits, I hold that while it may help with the long-term debt it still leaves the inequity of a properly addressed COLA. Why are teachers any less worthy of a fair COLA than nurses or government employees? This is a situation that needs immediate attention!
PO: MTS would be the first to support any group's right to engage in the political process around a provincial election. However, as MTS is the representative for all members of TRAF, we are compelled to provide some clarification to ensure that our members have ac curate information.
Make sure you understand your in surance benefits and limitations. The governing document is the certificate of Insurance, which is posted on the web site www.johnson.ca/rtam. For your safety, we recommend you leave a copy of all contact information and coverage with a close friend or family member.
emergency con't. from page 11
To the e ditor of KIT:
For the sake of refreshing everyone’s memory, I repeat some of his arguments and the discussion points I would have given.
D: If he represents Retired Teachers, why is he unable to respond to a query from a caller, who did not identify himself as being re tired?PO:
PO: 3. Since 2000, government has made substantial improvements to our pension plan and has committed to correcting mistakes that were 25 years in the making.
If a collection agency should contact you on behalf of a hospital at which you were treated, please contact DFS as soon as possible.
During the recent election campaign RTAM conveyed to the membership the results of their survey. No sooner were the results in our hands than Paul Olson, President of the MTS, rushed to set us straight. I phoned three times about his stance against the ability of retired teachers to voice their opinions and did not have the courtesy of a reply.
To recap, Sigma is the members’ first point of contact in the event of an emergency. When notified of a Travel Claim by Sigma, DFS sends the member instructions and forms for completion of the claim submis sion process. Johnson assists members
Johnson Inc. www.johnson.ca 1-877-989-2600
with the Travel claims process as needed - to clarify coverage, confirm eligibility, and communicate with Sigma and DFS regarding a specific situation. More information on each of the RTAM Group Benefits Program partners may be found at their respec tive web-sites and toll-free numbers:
'58-'59 reunion
Join a water team to give clean water in central America. one week around $3000 ( tax Re ceipted). Family and friends can contribute/fundraise to project and share cost. no experience required. Be part of something significant. Water Ambassadors canada. Founded by two retired 1-877-988-4688teachers. bassadorscanada.org.www.wateram
THE PAS1912-2012CENTENNIAL
Former teachers and residents of The Pas are invited to return on the August 3-5, 2012 weekend for the celebration of the town’s centennial. Information is available on a (thepascentennial.bravehost.com).website
t he immigrant & Refugee c ommunity organization of Manitoba (iRcoM) is cur rently recruiting reliable volunteers with classroom experience to assist with our newcomer literacy initiative. iRcoM's newcomer literacy initiative consists of free English as an Additional l anguage (EAl) classes and free childcare services for newcomers to Winnipeg. volunteers can expect to assist EAl instructors to run small group activities and facilitate lessons for 2.5 hours per week from September to May. individuals interested in sharing their skills with the newcomer community are invited to contact iRcoM's volunteer coordinator, Erin Anderson, at 943-8765, ext 23 or erina@ircom.ca. to learn more about iRcoM and our programming please visit us at www.ircom.ca.
EAL ClassroomNeededAssistants
1) this year's topic: open mic with a humorous anecdote from your year(s). 2) if you wish pictures, please bring your cameras.
Formerly Bannatyne School 363 t hompson Drive St. James SchoolAssiniboiaDivision #2
22 • R tAM kit Winter 2011
Class of 1953-1954
PAID AD
May 4 and May 6, 2012
Save the dates as celebration plans are underway!
100th Anniversary celebration
PAID AD
DR. LOUISA LOEB EIGHTH ANNUAL REUNION PERMIT TEACHERS of MANITOBA
tRAvEl WitH A PuRPoSE
ECOLE BANNATYNE SCHOOL
More information to follow.
WANTING TO BUY
A researcher and published author on the former use of the strap in commonwealth schools is looking for examples of the now-banned Regula tion School Strap; price depending on model, condition and provenance. c onfidential inquiries: (905)vintageschoolsupplies@cogeco.ca,Harold,627-4211.
MANITOBA NORMAL SCHOOL
Matt k awchuk: mrmatt1@mts.net or 204-728-8432
CLASSIFIEDS
When: thursday, July 12, 2012 time: 10:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m Registration begins at 10 a.m. All teachers who taught on PERMit are welcome to attend. contact Wally Stoyko at or204-222-0435EdithAlexiuk at 204-256-6484
will be celebrating our 58th year reunion Saturday,on September 22, 2012 in Brandon, Manitoba at the Royal c anadian l egion Hall 560-13th Street East For information contact Marg mcullen@wcgwave.cacullen: or i204-727-8833nformationand registration forms will be sent in June, 2011 to all members whose address is known.
to report any changes in your mailing address, phone number or e-mail contact:
cuBA – ‘Spanish Studies in cuba’ (Havana), $2,500.00 can. for 4 weeks. Hotel with breakfast and dinner, tuition fee. (Air fare not included). 250-478-0494 ssic@telus.net
Where: viscount Gort Hotel
• 4 Post-opera wine and cheese Seattle is truly a Ring city Wadsworth’s Ring is the most accessible of the 22 Rings i have seen.
ALASKA TOUR, AUGUST, 2012
AUGUST 19 - 26, 2013
Seating is assigned June 2012. Yes, June 2012!!
- Board Room, l ounge, Dining Room, and Pub options
JouRnEYS Wit H JunE - liFElonG lEARninG A nD ADvEntuRE
- Quiet downtown venue for coffee, lunch, refreshments
• More complete info available February, 2012 Book early for best rooms
• Return air Winnipeg/cuba
to be held at the v ictoria inn Hotel and c onvention c entre, 1808 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB 1:00 p.m. until midnight.
- new food choices feature freshness and local in-house specialties
MA nitoBA noRMA l ScHool REunion
For more information contact
Barbara c ochrane Box 969 Russell, MB, R0J 1W0
- Rent-free booking for after-hour catered private events
• Book early as this unique tour will sell out quickly
SOLDOUT
• Suitable tour for families.
• 9 nights at stately Marqueen Hotel
CUBA CRUISE & LAND FEBRUARY, 2013
- Free invitations to programs, parties, and Speakers
Seriescomplete information and Application Form are Ms.http://www.facultyandstaffclub.caavailable:PamelaDelormeat(204)786-9435
• Return air Winnipeg/ vancouver
• Be among the first to cruise around cuba
- Golf, water sports, salsa
SEATTLE WAGNER’SOPERARING CYCLE
• Your final opportunity to see Wadsworth’s beautiful production of t he Ring.
• Whales, seals, icebergs, glaciers
• Excellent educational talks
Ring tickets are usually sold out one year before it begins.
cl ASS oF 1951 – 1952 “Join t HE cREW oF ‘52”
• orchestra Prime seats for 4 Ring operas
METROPOLITAN OPERA TOUR
An invitation to stay connected to your alma mater The Board of the Faculty and Staff Club reminds all Alumni of the university of Winnipeg that they are eligible to be Associate Members of the club at the incredible bargain of $40 per year. Why consider this opportunity?
WAGNER'S RING CYCLE
- networking in attractive and comfortable environments
MAY 4 - 13, 2012
• Educational Shore Excursions
• 7 days at sea
• 7 day inner passage cruise
• Experience the real cuba in depth: - Artisans, museums, cathedrals
• Holland America Ships
tour l eader, June Slobodian 1-888-737-4511204-237-4511jodian@shaw.ca
60th A nnivERSARY REunion Friday, June 18, 2012.
Booking: charlene underhill c ontinental charlene@continentaltrav.com1-800-665-2626204-989-8576travel
• 7 additional days in cuba
• Return air Winnipeg/Seattle
RtAM kit • 23Winter 2011
if you only see one Ring, this is the one!!! Book early for best seats.
Phone: 204 – 773 - 2578
- Your choice
***NEW***
• 7 shore excursions including several unESco sites
- Dos Equis
NEW YORK CITY
Photos enhance your submitted material. Send photo by Canada Post.
Please send your hard copy ad and cheque to the Editor (payable to RTAM) before each deadline.
noticE to PA iD kit ADvER tiSERS
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½V page (9.53 cm. wide x 25.7 cm. deep) $250.00
May 8, 2012 - Chapter Presidents' Meeting
PHotoS
Materials published herein do not necessarily represent the policies nor the views of R tAM. k k k k
113 - 1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5.
A DVERTISING IN KIT add 5% GST
All materials for the next issue of kit must be typed and e-mailed to dsage@mts.net and received by February 24, 2012
Not-for-profit organizations who wish to place public service announcements, volunteer opportunities with service groups, school or teacher reunions are encouraged to do so. Submis sions are printed free of charge.
Free Public service Announcements:
Publication Agreement NumberContact40037581TRAFat
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Advertising on the RTAM Web Site: Membership reunions and Chapter events may be promoted on the RTAM web site at the discretion of and for a period determined by the Webmaster. There shall be no fee for posting these events.
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Advertising Rates for KIT per issue are:
RTAM OFFICE HAS MOVED
May 8, 2013 - AGM, Dauphin
The Editor and/or the Board of Directors of RTAM accept no responsibility or liability for failure to insert an advertisement for any reason. In such instances, full refund will be given.
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RTAM, Box 252 Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba does not endorse or promote any products, services or events presented in paid advertisements, the Announcements or Volunteer opportunities sections unless specified.
k
C OMING E VENTS
If you require information and brochures, or if you have any questions concerning these plans (Dental, House Insur ance, Long Term Care, Life, Emergency Medical Travel) contact: Johnson Inc. Insurance Benefits Administration 11120 178th street, edmonton AB T5s 1P2 Toll Free 1-877-989-2600 | Phone (780) 413-6628 Fax (780) 420-6082 | email: cgrandish@johnson.ca
1/8 page (9.53 cm. wide x 6.5 cm. deep) $150.00
The Editor of KIT
R tAM Pl A nS ADMiniS t ERED BY JOHNSON INC.
The editorial committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.
Retired teachers’ Association of Manitoba Box 252 neepawa, MB R0J 1H0
May 9, 2012 - AGM, Winnipeg
H AvE You MovED oR cHA nGED YouR ADDRESS ?
May 7, 2013 - Chapter Presidents' Meeting, Dauphin
