KIT Magazine - Winter 2018

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 30 | No. 3 | Winter 2018 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | info@rtam.mb.ca | www.rtam.mb.ca

"Horses" by Norma Donley 1st Place Winner - Summer

SAVE THE DATE May 7 - 8, 2019 Westman Retired Educators’ Association (WREA) Invites all RTAM members to Brandon, MB RTAM AGM 2019 Theme: “PLANTING RTAM SEEDS”

THANK YOU to: RTAM President Joan Dawson, Executive Director Mary-Anne Slegers and photo contest judge Gayl Punzalan from Blue Ink Media for successfully having the photos judged, through very difficult times.

- Doreen Sage, Editor-in-Chief

Honourable Mentions "Hiking at Mt. Assiniboine"

by Kathleen Nadler

"Botsawana King"

by Penny Hogan

"Inns of Court" by Bernard Boland 1st Place Winner - My Best Shot

See the amazing entries on page 26

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 30 No. 3 • Winter, 2018

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

RTAM Northeastman Chapter

Contents Income Disparity ........................................................................................ 5 Blue Cross Insurance and/or Manulife?........................................................ 6 Tips For Ensuring Your Claim Gets Paid........................................................ 7 Be On Guard!............................................................................................. 9 Wellness Advocacy & Award Committee....................................................... 9 Health Directive, Wills and Power of Attorney............................................. 10 RTAM 2018 Student Award Winners.......................................................... 11 Want To Connect Or Reconnect?............................................................... 12 RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant................................................................... 12 TARE Tours Travelling Display on Anne Frank.............................................. 13 Have Bus, Will Travel and Learn! Retired Teachers Hit the Road Again!...... . 14 Coffee House and AGM............................................................................. 16 Northeastman Chapter.............................................................................. 17 RTAM at TRAF........................................................................................... 17 2018 PNS '55 - '56 Reunion Luncheon...................................................... 18 Brown Under BU’s Spotlight...................................................................... 19 Intrepid Tours Egypt -12-Day Tour.............................................................. 20 RTAM Photo Contest Rules........................................................................ 25 Notices & Coming Events.......................................................................... 31

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

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

Copyright © 2018 by RTAM

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by February 21, 2019, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies or views of RTAM. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

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RTAM KIT Winter 2018

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 REPORT

G Joan Dawson RTAM President 2018-2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

reetings to all readers of KIT magazine. As I sit writing this article, I am reviewing the progress that the RTAM Board has been making since the 2018 AGM. All of the committees have held meetings where they have made progress in accomplishing their goals for the year. The day before the next Board meeting (November 20, 2018) the directors will all be attending a workshop on The Roles and Responsibilities of a Non-Profit Board to further our understanding of what we need to do to go forward with making RTAM an even more effective voice for retired teachers.

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2018 RTAM Student Awards.

They are acknowledged in this edition of KIT. We wish you success as you proceed through your postsecondary education.

The 2019 AGM will be held in Brandon on May 7 and 8 at the Brandon Clarion Hotel and Suites.

The Office Staff and AGM Chair, Rosalie Bornn, assisted by volunteers from the Westman Retired Educators’ Association Chapter, have started tentatively planning this event. We

remind all RTAM members that they are invited to register and attend this event. So, please, Save the Date.

Also, please consider taking a more active role in RTAM by putting your name forward for either the Board of Directors or for a committee. Every year there are vacancies to be filled at both levels. New members and directors bring new ideas and goals plus fresh enthusiasm to the work of RTAM. The Photo Contest continues to thrive and get better every contest.

The winning photos are featured in this KIT and all of the pictures will be posted on the website and in KIT. Please think about entering this contest to make it even better.

There are a few changes in the rules, so please check the website for the most current version.

Winter has already come to Thompson and it is beginning to look a bit like Christmas with lots of snow and ice decorating the area. I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the Board and Office Staff, to wish everyone a joyous and peaceful holiday season, may your new year be a successful one. 

Image is a photo contest entry entitled "At the Pool" by Ken Woodley

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM's PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINARS

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Register Now!

For Winnipeg and surrounding area:

For Brandon and surrounding area:

When: Saturday, February 23, 2019 Time: 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Where: Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West, 2520 Portage Avenue Winnipeg , MB

When: Time: Where:

To register, please email office@rtam.mb.ca by February 10, 2019

To register, please email Ray Sitter at raylarry266@gmail.com by March 23, 2019

Saturday, April 6, 2019 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Central Community Centre 527 - 4th Street, Brandon, MB

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Income Disparity Did you know that corporate bosses today may earn 312 times the wage of their average employee?

Julian Hoyak, Political Advocacy Committee Member

The following article by Julian Hoyak is the result of a study by the Political Advocacy committee of RTAM over two years. Julian has been a valuable member of the committee and has followed with great interest the phenomenon of the growing gap between the average worker and company CEOs. Beyond the obvious stress of declining real purchasing power is

W

ith respect to the mandate of the Political Advocacy committee to engage and inform our membership, the topic to be discussed is Income Disparity – the gap between what is earned by the top income earners and that earned by the average worker.

While there are attempts by right wing think tanks to minimize and trivialize the issue, the evidence is overwhelming that income disparity is a problem. Statistics by groups studying the phenomenon may vary, depending on year and approach, but they are consistent in that they all confirm that the income gap is widening.

The Conference Board of Canada, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Center for Policy Alternatives and the Broadbent Institute all agree that “inequity surged in the 1990s and remains high today.”

To put the assertion into a numerical context, the Guardian, in its August 16, 2018 issue, quoted from a study by the Economic Policy Institute which tracks incomes. It reported that in 1965, the CEO to worker income gap was 20-1. In 1989, it was 58 – 1, and that currently “bosses now earn 312 times that of the average workers wage.”

Marc Montgomery of Radio Canada International informed us ( June 2018) that “by 11 A.M. on the first working day of the new year, the average CEO…has already earned what it takes

the reality of growing unrest and dissatisfaction in the fabric of Canadian and American societies. Because of the decline of our COLA in the past two decades, our readers have a stake in the issues addressed in this article. - John Sushelnitsky, Chair of the Political Advocacy committee

an entire year for the average Canadian to earn”.

A study by Emmanuel Saez of U.C. Berkley not only supports the findings already mentioned, but has compared his findings against historical data. He states “American top 1% incomes peaked in the 1920s, right before the onset of the Great Depression.” Statistics Canada data shows that the higher your income bracket, the larger the increase in your income between 2006 and 2015. That the current income conditions in both the U.S. and Canada duplicate those in effect just prior to the 1930s Depression, is somewhat disconcerting, not only for Americans, but obviously for Canadians as well.

There are reasons for the rapidly rising rate of income disparity. One would be the tax structures favourable to wealth protection. There are ways to take advantage of tax avoidance. A second factor identified by the Institute for Policy Studies and AFL-CIO is “the declining role of unions in the United States,” This is an unfortunate trend in Canada as well. Statistics Canada reports that the rate of unionization was 37.6% in 1981 falling to 28.8% in 2014 and the slide continues. A third factor might be the often reported stagnation of wages that has affected incomes for a generation. All have had the effect of suppressing wages for workers.

So – why is this “bounty for some” a problem?

An article appearing in the May, 2018 issue Continued on page 6 RTAM.MB.CA n 5

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Blue Cross Insurance and/or Manulife?

Pat Bowslaugh, Benefits Chair

R

TAM has received several requests for support in dealing with these two Extended Health Insurance providers. Please note that these two carriers are with you from your time as an active teacher and are not under the jurisdiction of RTAM. Therefore, we are unable to intervene on your behalf.

Here are the contact numbers for each: Manulife: 1-204-944-8762 Blue Cross: 1-800-873-2583 (During personal contact with Blue Cross it was confirmed that information re premium costs will

be available for your Income Tax submission.)

SUN LIFE through MTS: There are many of us who purchased a Term Life Insurance policy through the Manitoba Teachers’ Society while we were an active teacher.

Those policies ended upon you reaching the age of seventy.

Glen Anderson, MTS Staff Officer provided information that those policies were held by Sun Life and timely communication with a Sun Life representative may allow you to continue with a private Sun Life policy without a medical verification. 

Income Disparity . . . continued from page 5 of Scientific American and reported by the Conference Board of Canada, outlines a series of consequences of income disparity. While the focus of the article is on poverty and illness, it can be expanded in scope to apply to the general population. It argues that in the spread of infectious disease in the American urban environment, “the main driver is the country’s ever worsening income disparity.” The article links poor quality housing, inadequate education, failing water and waste management infrastructure (all factors in the spread of disease) to inadequate incomes for lower and middle class workers. One could successfully argue that income disparity, affecting the majority of the population, reduces the tax revenues required to maintain social structures.

Income disparity can be related to crime rates as alluded to in a January 17, 2018 Free Press article. Adequate wages for families could pay for housing, child care spaces and the taxes that provide education and funding for social organizations that might be “key to keeping young 6 n

RTAM KIT Winter 2018

people from crime”.

While those with wealth have few constraints on their political participation and influence, those with lower incomes are less able to be involved because they have neither the time nor the money to indulge in what can be recognized as a “rich person’s sport”. This has led to apathy among voters and a downward trend in voter participation by those less affluent.

In conclusion, I submit that the growing income gap is itself a major problem because it concentrates too much wealth in too few hands.

Further, this gap contributes to economic and social problems affecting all of society , seniors included. It exacerbates poverty, decreases income security, affects our health and social infrastructure costs, hampers education opportunities, affects crime rates and discourages political participation. If nothing else, a look at income disparity should invite scrutiny, debate, some thought, and direct action to address the issue and related problems. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Tips For Ensuring Your Claim Gets Paid

T

he media love stories about huge travel insurance claims that are denied, leaving people with medical bills they have no way of paying. It sells newspapers and, sometimes, regrettably, this does happen. The truth, though, is that the overwhelming majority of travel insurance claims get paid with no problems.

That said, there are things that you can do to increase the likelihood that your claim will get resolved, and reduce the stress in an already stressful situation.

When purchasing

• Spend the time up front - Insurance companies ask you to complete an application form and, depending on your age, sometimes a detailed medical questionnaire. Answer all questions honestly and err on the side of giving them too much information. Even things that seem trivial to you may be important to them.

It’s a good idea to go over the questionnaire

with your doctor to ensure that questions about your medical history and medications are correct.

In the event of a claim, the insurance company will review your medical history and if they discover something they didn’t know about, your claim may be denied.

Before the trip

• Read your policy – Before you leave, be sure you understand what you are and aren’t covered for, how to file a claim, and what is meant by a pre-existing condition before you leave. If you aren’t sure about something, call your insurance broker or the insurance company directly and ask to have it explained.

• Note any medical changes since you bought the policy - If you’ve been to a doctor because you were ill, or changed your medication, in

Continued on page 8 RTAM.MB.CA n 7

COMMITTEE REPORTS any way, after you purchased your insurance, but before you leave, your policy may have been invalidated. Contact your insurance company and explain what happened and ask if there is any impact to your policy. You may be able to alter the policy, even the day you leave, but if you don’t, you may be travelling on a policy that will no longer cover you.

• Put the contact card in your wallet - Make sure you have this card and know where to find it all times while on your trip. If you don’t have multiple copies, make some and give a copy to each person you are travelling with so they have this information, too. It’s also a good idea to take your insurance broker’s or travel agent’s contact information with you as well, in case there is an issue they can assist with while away.

• Add your insurance company contact to your mobile phone - Many people travel with their mobile phones and tablets these days. If that’s you, make sure the emergency contact information is programmed into the contact file on your device. You may even want to put it on your home screen so it’s easy to find in an emergency.

After leaving

• Keep all your receipts/tickets/documentation - Don’t throw anything away. For the sake of organization, you may want to have a file or a suitcase pocket identified to store these in, or even take pictures of them on your smart phone as backup. These can serve as proof of location or expenses, and you will likely be asked to submit original documentation for any claim you submit.

If something happens

• Call your insurance company immediately Whether it’s a broken leg, a bad cold, or some lost

luggage, call your insurance company anytime something happens that might result in a claim.

• Many policies state that you must call in the case of medical emergencies and the definition of medical emergency can be broad and may include anything for which you seek medical attention. So, call even if you think it might not apply.

You can even call for things you won’t be claiming just to take advantage of the 24/7 telephone support. Many companies employ nurses on those lines who can help you find a nearby clinic or answer any other questions you may have about your condition or your policy.

Even if the medical emergency is not covered, this team can often help you through it. This is part of the service that you paid for.

• Alert the authorities - Preferably within 24 hours of an incident for any lost or stolen items.

Your insurance company will want evidence from police reports or airport lost luggage forms when investigating your claim for lost or stolen items.

During the claims process

• Follow the instructions - On your policy document and those from the insurance company’s assistance team. You will be advised on your treatment and follow-up as well as how to submit your claim. Following their advice to the letter will help speed up the claims process and ensure you don’t miss any steps that cause you headaches during the process.

• Submit documents promptly - There are time limits for submitting claims and supporting documentation. They vary by company, but it’s best to submit everything as quickly as possible to avoid missing a deadline and to get your claims settled as soon as possible. 

Esmeralda Havard, Winnipeg is a member of the Membership and Chapters Committee

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RTAM KIT Winter 2018

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Be On Guard!

Pat Bowslaugh, Benefits Chair

F

rauds and Scams are on the rise!

How? There are a variety of ways! BEWARE! When? Possibly any time that you are in contact with other people! BEWARE! Where? Any place where you are: your home at your door, by telephone, at business places, on vacation.

Given that the RCMP feel that only about 33% of Canadians are well educated about personal protection and scam protection, the intent of this article (through the cooperation of the Manitoba Consumer Protection Office in the Department of Justice) the following information is shared to help you become protected from such happenings.

FRAUD, in part, is defined as “the unauthorized acquisition, possession, or trafficking of personal information or the unauthorized use of information, in order to obtain financial gain, goods or services or to conceal criminal activity.”

Other examples of fraud include: • Someone representing an unfamiliar charity at your door or on the phone - ask questions, ask for a tax receipt, don’t give in to pressure, never give cash • Pyramid schemes are where you are offered a distributorship or franchise to market.

- be wary of “opportunities,” verify any franchise or investment before joining

• Ponzi Scheme is an investment where there is a promise of high financial returns or dividends. that are not available through traditional investments.

- Beware of offers that are too good to be true; they probably are • West African Fraud is the scam in which a letter arrives with an “urgent” business proposal.

- do NOT respond; call the local police • Travel Schemes involve a call or letter telling you that you have won a free or low cost vacation.

- do not give credit card or bank details; read the fine print; be careful when filling out contests • Phone Fraud is a call announcing “YOU’VE WON!” or some similar “good news.”

- Be cautious. Ask for the salesperson’s name, address, phone number, business licence.

• When pressuring happens, hang up!

• Identity Fraud occurs when someone steals your personal information to commit a crime.

- Never throw away receipts in a usable form, avoid giving credit card numbers to anyone calling you, reconcile your bank account monthly If you have any concerns regarding your safety that many involve a scam or fraud, call the Department of Justice: 204-945-3800 or 1-800-782-0067. 

Wellness Advocacy & Student Awards Committee The Wellness Advocacy & Student Awards Committee would like to include more of your ideas in the planning for future wellness sessions. To that end, our committee has designed a short survey for you to complete. Please visit www.rtam.mb.ca to access and complete the survey between December 1st and December 31st. This information will enable us to plan future Wellness Seminars that you are interested in attending.

We look forward to tabulating the results and planning accordingly.

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM Wellness Seminar

Health Directive, Wills and Power of Attorney Maureen Recksiedlert, Wellness Advocacy Committee Member

A

large group of RTAM members filled the meeting room of the Holiday Inn on Portage Avenue on October 31, 2018.

Thanks to KIT, we were able to reach our members and publicize our seminar. Sharon Tod was once again giving her informative presentation on Wills, Power of Attorney and Health Care Directives. Sharon tackles her tough subjects using humour and real life examples from the experiences of anonymous clients. We can learn to avoid their errors by doing our estate planning well in advance.

Choosing trustworthy executors, power of attorneys and proxies along with backups for each position will help you ensure your wishes are followed. Notifying your choices for the positions is vital so they know when they need to act on your behalf. The executor of the will’s job begins at death. The power of attorney’s job begins when you request them to act for you regarding

your property and financial affairs. The proxy for the health care directive takes over when we no longer have the capacity to to make decisions with respect to a proposed treatment. Sharon pointed out that these are difficult jobs and may involve considerable time and aggravation.

Health care directives should be placed in your ERIK kit on the refrigerator so it will be readily available in case an emergency arises. The will and power of attorney documents should be placed in your safety deposit box.

There were many questions and Sharon answered them thoroughly so all could learn from her responses.

Sharon feels that paying a reasonable fee to a lawyer to help prepare a will and power of attorney could save you from costly mistakes later on.

The Wellness Committee would like to thank Sharon Tod for volunteering her time to help our members.  Photo Contest Entry "Horses" by Norma Donley

10 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM 2018 Student Award Winners Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards Committee

RTAM is pleased to congratulate the following winners and their sponsors for 2018: Award Winner

Location

Sponsor

Relationship

Ainsley Brown Sarah Lamoureux Camryn McMillan Megan Shackel

Winnipeg Winnipeg Carberry Brandon

Barry Wittevrongel Ken Reimer Gladwyn Scott Manmohan S. Malhi

Grandfather Grandfather Grandfather Grandfather

Ainsley Brown

Sarah Lamoureux

Camryn McMillan

Megan Shackel

I am currently attending the University of Manitoba’s Desautels Faculty of Music. I am a Flute Major enrolled in the Music Education Program. My ultimate goal is to obtain my Bachelors Degree in Music and Education so that I can become an Early Years Music Educator.

I am studying theatre production and business in my post secondary education, with the hopes of pursuing musical theatre production with a company somewhere in Canada.

I am currently enrolled at the University of Manitoba in my first year of engineering.

Next year, I’ll get to choose which department I want to be in, which for me is Biosystems. I plan to work my way through this degree and then afterwards, I hope to go on and get my masters in Biomedical Engineering.

My post-secondary plans include studying psychology at the University of Calgary to obtain my Bachelor of Science.

After obtaining my science degree I plan on pursuing an after degree in Psychology.

Photo Contest Entry "Waves" by Judy Olmstead

RTAM.MB.CA n 11

CHAPTER REPORTS

Want To Connect Or Reconnect?

Linda Scott, Membership and Chapters Committee Chair

H

ow often have I heard "I miss the people I used to work with." Sometimes, in retirement, we drift away from those good friends and colleagues with whom we shared the better/best years of our lives. If this refers to you, join one of RTAM's 21 chapter or if there is one that is not in your area, why not start one? By joining an RTAM chapter, social relationships may be continued or new relationships may be established. RTAM is a strong voice for retired teachers throughout the province.

There is no minimum or limit to the number of people needed to start a chapter. If you need information on existing chapters or starting a chapter contact RTAM at: Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba

#206-1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 204-889-3660 or toll free 1-888-393-8082 Email: nwelwood@rtam.mb.ca Website: www.rtam.mb.ca Activities you might consider are monthly coffee, a walking group, a movie or theater outing, visiting Fort Whyte, a ride on the Prairie Dog Express, Manitoba's Baseball Hall of Fame or the Fossil Discovery Centre, a casino trip, bridge, cribbage or canasta games or a curling, golf or pickleball game and maybe even a singing group.

The ideas for activities are endless.

Retirement is the best "job" you'll ever have.

Enjoy yours! 

RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant Linda Scott, Membership and Chapters Committee Chair

T

he RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant (CIG) is available to chapters to promote member engagement. Chapters are urged to develop a project and/or activity that meets the unique needs of their individual membership. Once the plan has been formulated, an application form should be completed and sent to the RTAM office. Each chapter is eligible for a subsidy of up to $250 to assist with their project. Be aware that funding is limited. Please allow 2 - 3 weeks for processing.

The criteria used for evaluating the CIG application are as follows: • The project must promote member engagement.

• Project descriptions should be complete enough to indicate how "member engagement" will be promoted and what activity/activities are involved to facilitate this.

• Activities for which funding is requested must take place after the application date.

• Projects should avoid the direct transfer of funds received from RTAM to another

12 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

organization where there is no additional chapter member involvement.

• The exact same project should NOT be repeated yearly.

• A report must be sent to RTAM after the completion of the Chapter’s Project.

• Reports from a previous grant must have been received by RTAM to be eligible for another CIG. • Project reports are to be received no later than two months after the project’s completion date.

Project completion dates may be projected at the time of the grant application. In these situations, Chapters are asked to advise RTAM of the actual date of the activity once it has been confirmed.

• A description of how RTAM will be recognized for its contribution should be in the application.

• Priority will be given to first-time applications if a choice needs to be made due to budgetary constraints.

Please contact the RTAM office if you have any questions, by phone at 204-889-3660, 1-888-3938082 (toll-free) or email to office@rtam.mb.ca. 

CHAPTER REPORTS

TARE Tours Travelling Display on Anne Frank Joan Goble and Joan Dawson

A

n international exhibit chronicling the life of Anne Frank and her experiences hiding from the Nazis during the Holocaust arrived in Winnipeg this summer and was on display until September 3. Since then it has been going to high schools throughout the province and was in Thompson for the month of October. The goal of the exhibit is to encourage people to discuss racial discrimination and diversity. The travelling exhibit from Anne Frank House in the Netherlands has been on display in more than 60 countries, but this is the first time it has been in Manitoba.

The exhibit includes a video chronicling the life of Anne Frank and her experiences hiding from the Nazis during the Holocaust as well as photographs from Frank's childhood and information about how the Nazi regime's persecution of Jewish people affected her family.

There is also a display of artifacts from that time in Germany.

On Tuesday, October 23, a group from the Thompson Association of Retired Educators

(TARE) met at R.D. Parker Collegiate to tour the Anne Frank exhibit. We were met in the forum and escorted up the elevator to a classroom on the second floor. There we were met by Hannah who was our guide for the rest of the morning. First she introduced herself and the video and after watching that, Hannah took us into the Library where the Anne Frank display was situated. She led us through it panel by panel giving a brief explanation of each. She was happy to answer questions we asked, we were then free to wander through the exhibits at our leisure and observe the memorabilia in the display case. We enjoyed the informative hour and the display which evoked quiet comment and conversation.

Afterwards, we adjourned to The Hub, a local restaurant, for lunch. We were joined there by others who had had prior commitments. After a good meal, great conversation, and very little official business we dispersed but plan to meet again later in November. 

RTAM.MB.CA n 13

CHAPTER REPORTS

Have Bus, Will Travel and Learn!

Retired Teachers Hit the Road Again!

Story and photos By Ed James

O

ne of the very special parts of Canada is the unique and diverse culture. From coast to coast, we have a wonderful variety of cultural lifestyles that have come to this country from all over the world. The various groups have brought us different foods, music, clothing styles, language and traditions to build what a Canadian writer calls “a cultural mosaic,” for the rest of us to enjoy if we take the opportunity. Every year, a group of retired teachers in the Westman area of Manitoba plan a summer road trip to broaden their horizons. These trips can be cultural, musical and historical events and sometimes a mixture of all three. This year, 45 members of the group headed out for the Canadian National Ukrainian Festival, held south of Dauphin at the Selo Ukrainian Site. The concert site is built into the side of a hill, with lots of great seating for all angles of the huge stage. On top of the hill are smaller stage areas, food vendors, gift shops

14 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

and as a senior group, the all important, lots of washrooms!

On the smaller stages there were a variety of younger and new dancing groups who performed and were judged on their skills and performance.

I watched a few of these and was impressed with the throughness of the judges who not only pointed out the strengths and weakness of the groups, but often put down their note and demonstrated various techniques. On the upper levels of the site there was a variety of every type of Ukrainian food you would like to try and places to sit and enjoy it. There were also a number of gift shops, selling a wide selection of traditional and new Ukrainian gifts, artwork and clothing.

At the bottom of the hill there is a whole other site to visit. If you were concerned about the walk down and back up the hill, there were shuttle vehicles for those who are perhaps getting long in the tooth! In fact, it is worthwhile mentioning

CHAPTER REPORTS

Southwest Assiniboine Chapter

that every staff member and volunteer I met at the site went out of their way to help you or to answer your questions. (Where are the washrooms??). It would start with the volunteers who came on the bus to put on our wrist bands and the personal greeting given to us by the official host of this year’s event.

At the bottom of the hill is a recreation of a traditional Ukrainian Village, with actors to show you the old skills and techniques. These would include traditional music, framing techniques, arts and crafts and my favorite, the baking of bread in the traditional large round clay ovens. If you were more adventurous, you could go over to the Cossacks camp site where they were busy cooking traditional dishes over an open pit fire, with free samples for the asking. The smell of the wood burning fire just added to the mood and made the food taste better! Now it was time to go back up the hill to the main stage area for the afternoon

show. Since this is the 50th anniversary of the festival, you can be sure that they have worked all of the technical problems out of the performances, to give you a great show. It was a very hot day so you came prepared with water, hats and sun block to enjoy the event.

Two of the items that makes for a great performance are a good sound system and an even better MC. The MC that day, despite the almost 30 degree temperature, had the energy and stage presence that was a perfect match for the two hours of entertainment. If your foot was not tapping or your hands clapping, you might want to have your hearing checked! The dance groups, singers and band offered a mixture of traditional and new Ukrainian music and dance. You had such groups as the famous Shumka Dancers, the Zirkauk dancers and the dancing Cossacks, to name a few (the few I can spell!). These various Continued on page 16 RTAM.MB.CA n 15

CHAPTER REPORTS

Coffee House and AGM

Dorothy Young, St. James Assiniboia

T

he St. James-Assiniboia Chapter of RTAM held a very successful Coffee House and AGM on September 12, 2018. Members visited and got caught up with each other while enjoying homemade apple crisp and ice cream, coffee/tea/water. Thank you to Marj, Lynn, and Shelley for making the crisp. Guitarist Armando led us in some singing. We elected our new executive.

James Bedford, MTS Vice President, was our invited guest. He brought greetings on behalf of the MTS. He updated us on the 100th Anniversary events planned for 2019 and encouraged us all to vote to support public education. We had door prizes and twenty retired teachers went home with a prize! Thanks you to Rudy, Linda, Marj and Lynn for the prizes. Thank you to the Executive for planning this event and to RTAM Provincial for the financial support. It was greatly appreciated. We are planning another Coffee House and AGM for next fall. 

Southwest Assiniboine Chapter . . . continued from page 15 acts came from Ukrainian communities all over Canada. The colourful costumes and dance steps were like a rainbow at time as they flew across the large stage. But wait, there would be more!

To further demonstrate the cultural diversity of Canada, there were special performances by “The Asham Stompers” from Winnipeg, MB. These were a group of dancers of all ages who performed “a high energy jig and square dance.” Their mission is to recapture and preserve the history of the Metis people through the Red River Jig mixed with traditional square dance routines now known as the Red River Dance.” Once they hit the stage the floor boards were rumbling with rhythms as they performed group and individual dance sets.

The crowd were elated by their dance steps and costumes and from the side of the main stage you could see the other dancers cheering them on with 16 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

applause and cheers. They brought with them a very accomplished old time fiddler who did an 11 minute version of “Maple Sugar” and “Orange Blossom Special“ that the dancers burned up the stage with as the tempo got faster .

All too soon, the day trip was over as we headed back to our welcomed air condition bus that tour organizer, Kel Smith, had arranged as we headed back through the beauty of Riding Mountain National Park. My day had started off at 6:00 a.m. and I got home by 10:00 p.m., but the long day was worth every moment with hundreds of photos and memories of some of the unique cultural events I had seen that day. We have so much in this country to be thankful for with our rich cultural mosiac, the way I see it! BUDMO!! (cheers in Ukrainian.)

CHAPTER REPORTS

Northeastman Chapter Article and Photo: Brian McKenzie

A

fter a hiatus of two years, NRTAM members were contacted and a meeting held in Beausejour, October 22. Because of the geographical size of the region, having a full membership in attendance is usually not achievable. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss dividing the Chapter into two sub-regions which would more closely align with the members in each area and attract more of them to attend

short meetings and social events.

After a discussion, the decision was made to keep to the original format of the present Chapter but with more emphasis on social events.

An email has been sent to those members of NRTAM on our email list to explain the decision and to encourage them to suggest activities that could occur between May and September so that a maximum number of members can be involved. 

RTAM at TRAF John Sushelnitsky, Board Secretary

T

he event took place on October 15, 2018, when TRAF invited the RTAM Board to a meeting at the newly renovated TRAF office at The Forks. This event is an annual get together to acquaint RTAM Board members with the people responsible for the smooth delivery of our pensions. There are forty TRAF employees now and their office space has recently doubled with the acquisition of additional space.

Board Chairman, Bryton Moen, presented RTAM President Joan Dawson with a cheque for $500, continuing a practice that began in the mid-90s when TRAF and RTAM collaborated on communication activities to engage our membership. Accompanying Joan were Linda Scott, Peggy Prendergast, Carol Pelton, Guy Hansen and John Sushelnitsky. The meeting presented an opportunity for RTAM to present some of our concerns to the TRAF Board as well as a chance to meet, personally, individuals who

work on our behalf. Notables at the meeting for the TRAF Board were: Jeff Norton, President & CEO; Brenda Venuto, Senior Vice President; David Asselstine; and Norm Gould, MTS President. The meeting was both cordial and informative.  RTAM.MB.CA n 17

2018 PNS '55 - '56 Reunion Luncheon Article by Mickey Hersak, Member, Provincial Normal School 1955-56 Reunion Committee; Photos by Dorothy J. Martin

O

n the morning of June 9, 2018, the 1955 - 56 class of the Provincial Normal School met at the Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg to celebrate their 62nd Anniversary Reunion event.

The 52 guests and participants who began to arrive at 10 a.m. were greeted by the registration team of Nelma Fetterman and Rita Schroeder.

Mingling and visiting began immediately since it had been two years since the class last met. The informal program was called to order at 11:50 a.m. by Mickey Hersak, the emcee for the day.

Dorothy Derksen, the Reunion Committee Chair, brought greetings on behalf of the organizers.

Roger Starr read out the names of deceased colleagues prior to Nelman Fetterman delivering Grace. The served lunch was enhanced by table decorations consisting of mirrors and centre pieces arrange by Muriel Stiles.

Gordon Goldsborough, a reknowned radio personality, historian, webmaster, photographer, author, biologist and environmentalist, was the guest speaker. His presentation, "Early Schools in Manitoba," delighted an extremely receptive audience. Pat Holbrow thanked Gordon who remained afterward for book signing and to share more stories of early Manitoba schools with the participants. Interestingly, the enlarged yearbook pages which were on display included photos of our guest speaker's mother, Joan Hodgson, and his aunt, Dorothy Goldsborough. Musical entertainment by Elbert and Lorraine Toews, who sang "We Have This Moment," was enjoyed by all.

Mickey Hersak and Gordon Goldsborough

One of the attendees, Dorothy J. Martin, formerly Robinson, described her day as follows: "It was very exciting to meet a happy crowd of people renewing old friendships and making new ones. This was a day to be remembered and I am anticipating another in the future. Sincere thanks to all who worked so hard to make this wonderful reunion possible and such a success!"

The Provincial Normal School 1955 - 56 Reunion Committee, comprised of Dorothy Derksen (Chair), Mel Bodnarus, Claudia Eisbrenner, Nelma Fetterman, Mickey Hersak, Pat Holbrow, Lawrence Huska, Rita Schroeder, Muriel Stiles, Roger Starr and Elbert Toews, is in the process of preparing for the 65th Anniversary Reunion scheduled for 2021.

Photo Contest Entry "Kayaker at Sunset" by Roy Helene

18 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

Brown Under BU’s Spotlight Carla Eisler, Alumni Relations Officer, BU

B

randon University honoured a pair of alumni at the Homecoming Dinner and Awards ceremony held on 13 October 2018.

Gerald R. Brown, who graduated from the elementary Teacher Training Certificate program in 1956 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1963, received the Brandon University Alumni Award for Exceptional Service.

The ceremony was held on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Harvest Hall on the BU Campus.

“As we celebrate our 50th year as a university, we’re delighted to recognize Gerald, who has maintained strong ties with the university and community through their distinguished careers and volunteer activities,” said Carla Eisler, Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at BU, in a news release.

After graduating from the elementary school teacher training certificate program at Brandon College, Brown began his teaching career in Ninga 56-58, Brandon 58-59 and later Shilo 59-65.

In 1965, he joined the Winnipeg School Division as its School Library Program Organizer, a position he held until his retirement as Chief Librarian in 1992. At that time, he began an independent consulting career, which gave him opportunity to champion school librarianship in 49 countries around the world.

Also, all that time, he was carrying a BU banner, and counselling young people to consider BU as a campus of choice.

Brown helped establish the Dr. Wilfred McCutcheon Scholarship in Education, in recognition of the first Dean of Education at Brandon College, which has provided at total of more than $81,000 to more than 50 students since 1998.

He also helped fundraise for the creation of the McCutcheon Alcove, dedicated in 2016, in the Education Building.

Brown received the CLA Outstanding Service for Librarianship award 1993. He

Gerald R. Brown

was also named an Honorary Ambassador for the International Association of School Librarianship in 1997.

“Brandon College helped me learn how to navigate the challenges ahead,” Brown said. “I believe that is what the faculty are doing today for young people for southwest Manitoba and also around the world. Brandon University is a “wonderful gem on the Prairies”. It has the teaching staff to help aspiring students reach new dreams.”

Since “Mr. Turtle” has decided to slow down on the consulting circuit, Brown has taken over responsibility for the library program at Lions Place, 610 Portage Ave. It is a project that is unparalled in any other Seniors institution in the Winnipeg. And while he is leading this team of volunteers, he is also sharing the good news about scholarships, music programs, and opportunities for their grandchildren to go to Brandon University. Brown seems to have boundless energy. Ask him about Brandon University, and he breaks out in a big grin, and is prepared to champion its strengths on the spot.

Homecoming ran from Oct. 11 to 14, 2018. RTAM.MB.CA n 19

INTREPID TOURS EGYPT 12-DAY TOUR William (Bill) Taylor

20 n RTAM KIT Fall 2018

F

or my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move. Robert Louis Stevenson QUESTIONED OFTEN: “Why would you want to go to Egypt now? It’s really dangerous, isn’t it ?”

Well, what could be more life threatening than my advanced age?

“No one’s going there!”

BINGO! I am!!

A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for. John A. Shedd In 2010, Egypt attracted about 15 million tourista a year. After terrorist attacks and civil riots, the number plunged to about 4 million. It has had disastrous effects on Egypt’s employment rate and its economy. It’s a shame, really, as there is so much and so many amazing things to see.

I find the hardest part of travel is just making up my decision to walk into a travel agent. I did just that, in September, 2017.

There were two recommended options for Egypt: Canada’s g Adventures and Australia’s Intrepid Tours; both small-group (max.16) tours.

I have taken g Adventure Tours at least five times; would do so at the end of the Egypt Tour, going on to Jordan with g Adventures.

Knowing what I had to face, travel wise, I decided to go two days earlier than the tour started. These tours always begin DAY ONE: with a 7:00 p.m. introductory meeting. So, in fact, I had three full days.

I chose the very-similar Intrepid 12-day tour as it started with a 4-day Nile cruise, from Aswan to Luxor, with stops at the major monuments and sites each morning. Believe me, it was absolutely wonderful. Worth going to Egypt just for the Nile Cruise!

After the Winnipeg Airport wait and security, then Toronto’s, the flying tie is 15 hours. I knew the 7-hour time change, airports and flights would have me speaking in tongues when arriving early in the morning in Cairo.

The next best choice I have ever made was to go online to Tripadvisor.com and find a private tour company.

My guardian angel chose Egypt Tailor Made Tours. For those three days I would have a private car, a tour guide and driver. The total cost, in Canadian dollars, payable in cash, was $398. Our Canadian dollar goes a long way in Egypt, at that time, it sure did.

Tour included everything seeable in Cairo and a half-day trip to Memphis, the ancient capital, 35 km out of Cairo.

The sites were almost tourist free The dozens of poor riderless camel drivers begged for me to ride.

I would rather go on a porcupine. I was on a camel in Jordan. Once is more than enough. They are small and they bite!

My guide, Heba (with her written permission), was an absolute wonder; a young graduate of Egyptology (she can read the hieroglyphics), and a married mother of a two-year old daughter.

A female as a guide is a rare sight in Cairo. We started off with Cairo’s most visited site, the massive Saladin Mosque; later the Cairo Museum.

At Memphis, (King Cheops) we crawled and crept deep down into the burial chamber of the pyramid; this is an extra-fee travel option with all Intrepid and g Adventures.

Heba took me to the tour companies’ avoided part of Cairo, the Christian Coptic Cairo. We braved tanks and soldiers to visit the Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church, built on the spot where Joseph, Mary and Jesus rested, after fleeing into Egypt, past the Roman Fortress “BABYLON” to visit the Hanging Church, 3rd Century AD, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Three days I will RTAM.MB.CA n 21

carry with me forever!

The oft written about, El-khalili souk, or market maze is an endless maze of little streets selling much the same as the other. It can become boring. Stop for coffee and, you must try a dish of Koshary. You will be accosted by desperate hawkers. Hang on to your purses and bags. I had all my money, passport and credit cards in and under-my-clothing travel belt.

We were warned to watch our pockets as pick pockets were the best in the world and we would be unaware. Well, if a pick pocketer could get his hand down to my travel pocket I would have to be dead anyway!!

I looked up all sites we would travel to but ignored endless lists of Pharaohs, sites, gods and goddesses.

Another reason I chose Intrepid: To get to the cruise ship (not the ones of Europe’s rivers), rather than a flight; we took an overnight passenger train to Aswan. What a great experience. Had my 22 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

own upper/lower bunk compartment. A porter brought a hot supper on a tray. Unlike on an aircraft, I slept!!

All the site are available online with these two tour companies. I found the most awesome were, Karnak, Abu Simbel Temples and Hatshepsut’s Temple at the entrance to the Valley of the Kings.

We flew back to Cairo in the early morning. A day free to go shopping in El-kahalili; I went to the lovely sidewalk coffee shops, where a waiter, unasked, will bring the males a hookah, just in case you need an extra high after the tiny cup of liquid caffeine. Yes, I did!!!!

That evening, at the same hotel, I met up with the Canadian g Adventure Jordan tour of 15 Australians!! On my Australian tour it was mainly Canadians. Canadians and Australians made up the majority of the travellers I met along all our many stops.

If, like I had, had always wanted to go, GO! 

In Memoriam March 2018

August 2018

Wilfred Earle Aberdeen, Winnipeg, MB

James Gallafant Bowler, Winnipeg, MB Anne Chudy, Winnipeg, MB Marcel Daeninck, Winnipeg, MB Abram Dyck, Winnipeg, MB Jeanne E. Forbes, Winnipeg, MB Brian Stuart Hayes, Winnipeg, MB Robert Alfred Hyatt, Russell, MB Barbara Ann McIntyre, Thompson, MB Elinor G.A. Moen, Winnipeg, MB Luc Rino Nadeau, St. Pierre-Jolys, MB Junita Kay Nielsen-Goertzen, Horndean, MB John Richard Peet, Winnipeg, MB Hugh M. Pollitt-Smith, Crystal City, MB Leonard E. Schmidt, Winnipeg, MB Hilton L. Stewart, Brandon, MB Wayne Robert Stinson, Stonewall, MB

July 2018 Allan Cartlidge, Selkirk, MB Rose Marie Chapman, St. Claude, MB Dorothy M. Flesher, Edmonton, AB Jacqueline R. Graham, Winnipeg, MB Margaret Yvonne Kirbyson, Winnipeg, MB Garnet G. MacDonald, Brandon, MB Alvin R. Mills, Flin Flon, MB David Negrych, St. Andrews, MB Horst Rath, Chilliwack, BC Edna Siemens, Winnipeg, MB Ernest N. Tashe, Winnipeg, MB Rose Tataryn, Russell, MB Issac F. Wiens, Centennial, CO, USA

Life Members

Judy Taylor, Neepawa, MB Marjorie R. Young, Cypress River, MB Donald Peter Zorniak, Winnipeg, MB

September 2018 Margaret G. Bean, Winnipeg, MB Lillie F. Boese, Steinbach, MB Diedrich (Dick) Derksen, Steinbach, MB Murray Albert Grass, Winnipeg, MB Peter Kubas, Winnipeg, MB John R. Lord, Winnipeg, MB Marlene H. Neufeld, Brandon, MB Lincoln J. Peturson, Calgary, AB Ivan T. Rainey, Virden, MB William Alexander Smith-Windsor, Lebret, SK Marita Watson, Winnipeg, MB

Photo Contest Entry "Oriole" by Norma Donley

August 2018 Elsie J. Bradley, Winnipeg, MB Walter O. Fuller, Dauphin, MB F. Jean McQuarrie, Oak Lake, MB Jack Mohr, Winnipeg, MB Olga Regehr, Winnipeg, MB Coralie M. Standing, Winnipeg, MB

September 2018 Eleanor Gladys Fischer, Brandon, MB Abram J. Friesen, Steinbach, MB Velma Jean Hamilton, Gilbert Plains, MB Frances Lofto, Winnipeg, MB Gloria R. McMillan, Selkirk, MB Nickolai Poetker, Winnipeg, MB Albert E. Thompson, Winnipeg, MB

October 2018 Jakob Hildebrandt, Winkler, MB William M. Kotelko, Stonewall, MB

RTAM.MB.CA n 23

RTAM

Photography CONTEST

Winter 2019 Photo Contest

The KIT editorial committee announces a photo contest. The two categories are: • Looks Delicious: Food too pretty to eat? Take a picture and enjoy!

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

All entries to be sent by mail, email, fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m. April 5, 2019.

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA (RTAM)

PLEASE PRINT NAME ADDRESS

CITY

PHONE

EMAIL

CATEGORY ❏ Food ❏ Vehicle

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE: (optional)

POSTAL CODE

DECLARATION I agree to abide by the RTAM WINTER 2019 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 WINTER 2019 Photo Contest, 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Or emailed to: info@rtam.mb.ca ENTRY DEADLINE: 3:00 P.M., APRIL 5, 2019 24 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

THIS FORM MAY BE PHOTOCOPIED.

Winter 2019 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

RTAM PHOTO CONTEST RULES Winter 2019 • Contest is open to all Full and Associate RTAM members in good standing.

• Deadline: 4:00 p.m., April 5, 2019 • Participants are limited to two photos per category specified on the Contest Official Entry Form.

• Each photo can be entered in only one of the categories specified on the Contest Official Entry Form.

• Each photo must have a title.

• A completed Contest Official Entry Form is required for EACH photo submitted.

• 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.

• Entries will not be returned.

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

• Winners will be announced in KIT and posted on the RTAM website.

• One first prize of $25 and one second prize of $15 will be awarded in each category.

• RTAM may additionally designate Honourable Mention awards in each category, without a prize.

• All prizes will be accepted as awarded.

• The Contest Official Entry form can be downloaded at www.rtam.mb.ca.

Submission Requirements:

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

• Matted or framed photos will not be accepted.

• Photo titles are mandatory, must be written on

the back of prints and match the title on the Contest Official Entry Form.

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

Entry Submission Instructions:

• Prints together with entry forms are to be sent by postal service, courier or hand delivered to: RTAM Photo Contest 206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Electronic photos and entry forms can be emailed to: office@rtam.mb.ca • Hard copy entry forms to accompany electronic photo entries can also be submitted by: FAX to: 204-783-2011 or by Postal service, courier or hand delivered to: RTAM Photo Contest 206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 • Photos and Contest Official Entry Forms must be received by the deadline specified in the Contest Official Entry Form. Photos with incomplete entry forms, photos whose title does not match the title on the entry form, photos received without entry forms and photos received after the entry deadline will not be eligible for contest entry.

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

RTAM Summer 2018

Photography CONTEST

26 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

RTAM.MB.CA n 27

28 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

RTAM Annual General Meeting 2019 > SAVE THE DATE! As the volunteer local host Chapter of the May 2019 Annual General Meeting of RTAM, Westman Retired Educators’ Association (WREA) cordially invites all members of RTAM to SAVE THE DATE!

Invitation:

Westman Retired Educators’ Association (WREA) Invites all RTAM members to Brandon, MB RTAM AGM 2019 Theme: “PLANTING RTAM SEEDS” Tuesday, May 7, 2019 Chapter Presidents’ Meeting, Johnson Insurance Presentation, Evening Reception Wednesday, May 8, 2019 -RTAM General Meeting 2019 Location: Clarion Hotel & Suites, 3130 Victoria Avenue

Your RTAM KIT is now mobile-readable!

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

30 n RTAM KIT Winter 2018

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!

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

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

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

Hold the Date – June 6, 2019 The Manitoba Teachers' College Class of 1958-59 are celebrating 60 years on June 6, 2019. The celebration will take place at the former MT College, Canadian Mennonite University. Further information will be forthcoming.

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

PARTNERS FOR LEARNING

Retired teachers in the Winnipeg area for part time tutoring over the summer and the upcoming school year for Grades 1-10 Language Arts, Maths and Science.

Email resume to Partners for Learning at pfl1@mymts.net.

Are you interested in becoming a mentor?

N.E.E.D.S. Inc. (Newcomer Employment & Education Development Services) is currently seeking volunteer mentors to work with newcomer youth ages 6-18.

N.E.E.D.S. Inc. is a non-profit, charitable organization that seeks to provide accessible services and supports to immigrant and refugee newcomer youth and their families during their settlement in order to enhance their integration into Canadian society.

Please consider becoming a mentor today! It only takes 6 hours a month to make a difference in the life of a refugee youth new to Winnipeg. Mentors connect newcomer youth to the community and engage them in educational and recreational activities.

Hours are flexible and a minimum commitment of 6 hours per month for 1 year is required. Please contact Matthew Fast at 940-1265 or matt@needsinc.ca if you are interested in applying or want more information.

CONTACT INFO N.E.E.D.S. Inc. 251-A Notre Dame, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 1N8 Phone: (204) 940-1260 Fax: (204) 940-1272 Check out www.needsinc.ca for more information on N.E.E.D.S Inc.

RTAM.MB.CA n 31

HOME TRAVEL

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“I’ll stop chasing mine”

When you travel, be sure to pick up MEDOC® Travel Insurance through Johnson Insurance.

With just one call, you could get multi-trip coverage that is often less expensive than paying for multiple trips separately3.

1-855-473-8029 Johnson.ca/rtam Mention that you’re an RTAM member for your preferred rates.

†

Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc. (“Johnson”), a licensed insurance intermediary, and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia. MEDOC® is a Registered Trademark of Johnson. This insurance product is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada (“RSA”) and administered by Johnson. Valid provincial or territorial health plan coverage required. The eligibility requirements, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions, which apply to the described coverage are as set out in the policy. Policy wordings prevail. 1Coverage for Trip Cancellation begins the day of booking your trip provided your insurance is in effect. If a trip is booked prior to Trip Cancellation insurance being in effect, coverage for that trip will begin the day that the insurance premium is paid and the policy is issued. 2A 90-day Health Stability Clause applies to pre-existing medical conditions and other restrictions may apply. 3Based on a comparison of MEDOC’s multi-trip annual C plan design against single trip plans with similar benefits. Johnson and RSA share common ownership. Eligibility requirements, limitations, exclusions or additional costs may apply and/or may vary by province or territory. Call 1-855-473-8029 for details. Vehicle may vary from illustration. BMW Canada Inc. including its parent company, subsidiaries, divisions and other operating entities, has neither authorized, sponsored, nor endorsed this Contest. BMW, BMW model designations and all other BMW related marks and images are the exclusive property and/or trademarks of BMW AG. †NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open January 1, 2018 – December 31, 2018 to legal residents of Canada (excluding NU) who have reached the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence and are a member of a recognized group with whom JI has an insurance agreement. One (1) grand prize available: 2018 BMW 230 xi xDrive Coupe vehicle (approx. retail value $50,650). Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Math skill test required. Rules: www1.johnson.ca/bmw2018