Seasonal update from the Board of Directors of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM)
Dear RTAM Members,
As we approach the holiday season, the Board of Directors of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) is excited to share our winter update, reflecting on a year of growth, engagement, and community spirit.
We are thrilled to report that our recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) was a landmark event, achieving record-setting attendance. This enthusiastic turnout underscores the strength and commitment of our membership and the vibrant community we are building together. During the AGM, we passed a significant new Education Community Membership that allows us to welcome new members into our growing family at RTAM. This initiative not only enriches our organization and ensures long-term success but also enhances our collective voice in advocating for the interests of retirees.
We want to extend heartfelt thanks to our dedicated volunteers, Board of Directors, and staff who work tirelessly to support our initiatives. Your efforts are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate your commitment to enhancing the lives of retirees in Manitoba. It is through your hard work and dedication that we can offer such a dynamic range of programs and services to our members.
In addition to our AGM, we have held a series of successful town hall meetings throughout the Fall, engaging in meaningful dialogue with our political partners. These meetings provide an essential platform for discussing the concerns of retirees and older adults throughout Manitoba. We are proud to have allies in our political landscape who are committed to addressing the issues we face, ensuring that our voices are heard. We encourage all members to continue participating in these important conversations and advocate for our needs and rights as we navigate the evolving landscape of retirement.
As we look forward to the December holidays, may you find joy and warmth in the company of loved ones. We hope this season brings rest and rejuvenation as we prepare to embark on another year of learning, advocating, and growing together.
Thank you once again for your ongoing support and engagement. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!
Warm regards,
On Behalf of the Board of Directors
Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM)
Mise à jour saisonnière du conseil d’administration de la Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM)
Chers membres de la RTAM,
Àl’approche du temps des Fêtes, le conseil d’administration de la Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) est heureux de vous présenter sa mise à jour hivernale, qui fait état d’une année de croissance, d’engagement et d’esprit communautaire.
Nous sommes ravis d’annoncer que notre récente assemblée générale annuelle (AGA) a été un événement marquant, avec une participation record. Cette participation enthousiaste souligne la force et l’engagement de nos membres et la communauté dynamique que nous construisons ensemble. Au cours de l’AGA, nous avons voté l’adoption d’une importante nouvelle adhésion pour la communauté éducative qui nous permet d’accueillir de nouveaux membres dans notre famille grandissante au sein de RTAM. En plus d’enrichir notre organisation et d’assurer son succès à long terme, cette initiative renforce notre voix collective dans la défense des intérêts des retraités.
Nous tenons à remercier chaleureusement nos bénévoles dévoués, notre conseil d’administration et notre personnel qui travaillent sans relâche pour soutenir nos initiatives. Vos efforts sont inestimables et nous apprécions profondément votre engagement à améliorer la vie des retraités au Manitoba. C’est grâce à votre travail acharné et à votre dévouement que nous pouvons offrir à nos membres une gamme aussi dynamique de programmes et de services.
En plus de notre AGA, nous avons tenu une série d’assemblées publiques locales fructueuses tout au long de l’automne, en engageant un dialogue constructif avec nos partenaires politiques. Ces rencontres constituent une plateforme essentielle pour discuter des préoccupations des retraités et des personnes âgées de tout le Manitoba. Nous sommes fiers d’avoir des alliés dans notre paysage politique qui se sont engagés à aborder les problèmes auxquels nous sommes confrontés, en veillant à ce que nos voix soient entendues. Nous encourageons tous les membres à continuer de participer à ces conversations importantes et à défendre nos besoins et nos droits alors que nous naviguons dans le paysage changeant de la retraite.
À l’approche du temps des Fêtes, nous vous souhaitons de trouver joie et chaleur en compagnie de vos proches. Nous espérons que cette saison vous apportera repos et ressourcement alors que nous nous préparons à entamer une nouvelle année d’apprentissage, de sensibilisation et de croissance ensemble.
Nous vous remercions une fois de plus de votre soutien et de votre engagement. Nous vous souhaitons un merveilleux temps des Fêtes et une heureuse nouvelle année!
Sincères salutations, Au nom du conseil d’administration Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM)
Sean Seywright
RTAM Executive Director
Sean Seywright can be reached anytime by email at Seywright@rtam.mb.ca
Season’s greetings from RTAM
As we approach the festive season and welcome the winter months, I would like to take a moment on behalf of the entire RTAM staff to extend our warmest wishes to each of you. This time of year offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments and the collective spirit that binds us as a community of retired educators.
The hustle and bustle of the holiday season may be upon us, but rest assured that true to our commitment, RTAM continues to work diligently on your behalf. Our dedicated team is focused on advocating for the rights and needs of our members, ensuring that your voice remains strong and heard within the education sector and beyond.
In the spirit of the holidays, we encourage you to take time to enjoy the company of family and friends. Whether you are celebrating traditional festivities or simply enjoying the beauty of the season, we hope it brings you peace, joy, and rejuvenation. Looking ahead to the new year, we are excited to share that there will be further updates and announcements coming your way. We remain committed to enhancing our services and support for all our members, and we can’t wait to share those developments with you.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. Wishing you a very happy and healthy holiday season and a wonderful start to 2025!
RAPPoRT du dIRECTEuR géNéRAl
Sean Seywright
Sean Seywright peut être contacté à tout moment par courriel à Seywright@rtam.mb.ca
Meilleurs vœux de la RTAM en cette période des Fêtes
À l’approche du temps des Fêtes et de l’arrivée des mois d’hiver, je voudrais prendre un moment au nom de toute l’équipe de la RTAM pour vous présenter nos vœux les plus chaleureux. Cette période de l’année offre une merveilleuse occasion de réfléchir à nos réalisations et à l’esprit collectif qui nous unit en tant que communauté d’éducateurs retraités.
L’agitation du temps des Fêtes est peut-être à nos portes, mais soyez assurés que, fidèle à son engagement, la RTAM continue de travailler assidûment en votre nom. Notre équipe dévouée se concentre à la défense des droits et des besoins de nos membres, en veillant à ce que votre voix reste forte et entendue dans le secteur de l’éducation et au-delà.
Dans l’esprit du temps des Fêtes, nous vous encourageons à
prendre le temps de profiter de la compagnie de votre famille et de vos amis. Que vous célébriez les festivités traditionnelles ou que vous profitiez simplement de la beauté de la saison, nous espérons qu’elle vous apportera paix, joie et ressourcement.
En prévision de la nouvelle année, nous sommes heureux de vous annoncer que d’autres mises à jour et annonces vous parviendront. Nous restons déterminés à améliorer nos services et notre soutien à tous nos membres, et nous sommes impatients de partager ces développements avec vous.
Nous vous remercions de votre confiance et de votre partenariat. Nous vous souhaitons un excellent temps des Fêtes et début d’année 2025!
Jocelyne Fraser
RTAM Digital KIT Subscribers – Starting in 2025, the digital version of KIT will no longer be sent through Constant Contact. RTAM will be using the Member Portal to forward future editions of the KIT magazine to digital subscribers. Please ensure that you create an Account at the following link https://members. rtam.mb.ca/MIC/Login. If you have any questions regarding the process to Create an Account, please contact the RTAM office.
Reminder to check the RTAM Monthly E-Newsletter for a list of great seminars and workshops!
MESSAgE du CoMITé KIT
Jocelyne Fraser
Abonnés RTAM Digital KIT – À partir de 2025, la version numérique de KIT ne sera plus envoyée via Constant Contact. RTAM utilisera le portail des membres pour transmettre les futures éditions du magazine KIT aux abonnés numériques. Veuillez-vous assurer de créer un compte en cliquant sur le lien suivant https://members.rtam.mb.ca/MIC/Login. Si vous avez des questions concernant le processus de création d’un compte, veuillez contacter le bureau RTAM.
N’oubliez pas de consulter le bulletin mensuel électronique de la RTAM pour une liste d’ateliers formidables !
We are always looking to include articles from our members in our issues of KIT such as: books you have read, special interests or hobbies, travel tips, recipes, seminars or workshops that you have attended, and any other ideas.
As the snowflakes fall and the lights twinkle, may your heart be warmed with the magic of the season. Best wishes for a healthy, happy, and peaceful New Year.
Nous invitons nos membres à nous envoyer des articles pour nos numéros de KIT tels que : les livres que vous avez lus, vos intérêts ou passe-temps particuliers, des conseils de voyage, des recettes, des ateliers auxquels vous avez assistés et toutes autres idées.
À tous nos lecteurs et lectrices, que la magie des Fêtes remplisse votre cœur. Meilleurs vœux pour une nouvelle année comblée de bonheur, de joie et de paix.
We are seeking your ideas for ways to keep socially connected by asking you to identify practices which work for you.
For our Spring edition, we would like to highlight some of your ideas you have found helpful to keep your social connections alive and well.
Please submit them to KIT at the following address kit@rtam.mb.ca and we will collate your responses in hopes of offering some new means of reaping the many benefits of being socially connected.
RTAM’s steps on the path to meeting with the Honourable Murray Sinclair
In 2009, Sinclair was appointed chair of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, investigating the experiences of Indigenous children sent to residential schools. Documenting the experiences of 6,000 students in hundreds of hearings across Canada, the TRC issued its report in 2015, including 94 recommendations and a “Call to Action” to begin the journey towards reconciliation.
2017 – RTAM’s Political Advocacy and Public Relations Committees begin committee discussions as to what might be RTAM’s response to the Call for Action.
January 2018 – The University College of the North (UCN at The Pas) outlines the process of giving bursaries to Indigenous students.
Octobert 2018 – RTAM creates an Indigenous Student Bursary (ISB) to be administered by UCN.
November 2018 – The first recipient of the ISB is Brie Phillips, who provides a project describing the relationship between a young Indigenous person and a grandmother, stressing the role Mother Earth plays for all people. RTAM proposes that the project be expanded into a booklet, to be offered to all Manitoba schools.
March 2019 – RTAM meets with Niigaan Sinclair, Murray Sinclair’s son, a Free Press columnist on Indigenous matters and a professor at the University of Manitoba. His talk describes the progress and current status of Indigenous people in Manitoba. An article on his talk appeared in the April KIT.
October 2019 – Brie accepts RTAM’s booklet proposal which becomes a great success and in demand in other provinces as well. The booklet “Roots” opens many opportunities for Brie as an education consultant as well as a classroom teacher.
March 2020 – RTAM invites the Hon. Murray Sinclair to meet the Board with zoom access being given to the Manitoba Teachers’ Society and the Manitoba School Boards. His address began with the historical view of Indigenous people and Europeans being one of equality as
both could learn from the other. At the creation of Canada in 1867, no Indigenous people were represented. Shortly after, the Canadian government enlisted both religious institutions to “withdraw the Indian child from parental influence “and to be put into “central training industrial schools,” hence the Residential School system was born, and affected seven generations of Indigenous children.
To return to the balance of mutual respect would take time, and Education would be the tool to achieve it. He said, “If we do not play together as children, we will not talk and listen to each other as adults.”
At the end of his address, Brie Phillips presented a copy of “Roots” to Mr. Sinclair. He loved it, saying “a great story! Just as your grandmother told you the story Roots, I will read your story to my grandchildren.”
RTAM began the reconciliation process by introducing an annual Indigenous Bursary to a student of the North. Our commitment to the process continues to the level of four bursaries now. The Honourable Murray Sinclair passed away November 4, 2024. He was 73.
Written by John Sushelnitsky, contributions by Guy Hansen, Pat Bowslaugh and Bill Cann.
Niigaan Sinclair.
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) launched a new website and a member portal in October. RTAM worked with local agency Luscious Orange to develop this new website. We encourage all RTAM members to visit these new online resources to stay up to date with everything at RTAM.
Website
Visit our new website at rtam.mb.ca. This is a public website where we can share news, engage with the community, and promote RTAM membership.
Visit Website (rtam.mb.ca)
Member Portal
Find the Member Portal at members.rtam.mb.ca . You can also access the Member Portal from the Member Login link at the top of the website. The Member Portal will be used to update your profile information, view and pay invoices, create or register for events, join chapters, and much more.
As the Member Portal is a new initiative for all RTAM members, there is no current username or password on file. All RTAM members are asked to create an account. Your TRAF login credentials will not work to login to the RTAM Member Portal.
Please follow these steps to create an
account:
Please follow these steps to create an account:
1. G o t o m e m bers.rta m . m b.c a .
2. T o th e righ t o f th e “Sig n In ” button , yo u w il l notic e Don’ t hav e a n Accoun t an d a lin k t o “ C reat e O ne” C lic k o n thi s link
3. T o creat e you r account , ente r you r lega l firs t an d las t na m e an d you r e m ail T he n clic k “Sub m it ” .
a .If you have accents, hyphens or spaces in your name please include them.
b.Should you receive an error or a message “Contact does not match”, this means that the information RTAM has in our database does not match what you have entered.
c.You will only be able to create an account with an exact match to that in the RTAM database.
4.You should then receive an email in your inbox, if successful, to continue to create your account.
5.Create a password; the password must be at least 8 characters and include a numeric and special character.
If you are having difficulty, contact Dianne at the RTAM office by email to info@rtam.mb.ca or call 204-889-3660; toll free 1-888-393-8082.
RTAM makes a mark at SAGE 2024
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) proudly broke new ground this year by attending the Special Area Group of Educators (SAGE) conference days for the first time in 2024. With a presence at multiple SAGE locations, RTAM volunteers were welcomed as both informal and formal guests, sparking valuable conversations and building bridges with Manitoba’s teaching community.
This new initiative marks an exciting expansion of RTAM’s popular pre-retirement seminars, which continue to draw more than a hundred eager registrants at each session. While the seminars remain a cornerstone of RTAM’s outreach, these in-person appearances at SAGE added an enriching dimension, allowing for more direct engagement with teachers at various stages of their careers.
SAGE 2024 provided a dynamic platform for RTAM volunteers to meet educators, answer questions, and share insights about the benefits of joining RTAM. The event also offered a unique opportunity to connect with future retirees in a setting that encouraged meaningful conversations about the transition from active teaching to a fulfilling retirement.
Conférence des ÉFM
Soumis par Jocelyne Fraser
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing appreciation for RTAM’s presence and the valuable information shared. “It was heartening to see so much interest and enthusiasm from teachers at SAGE,” said one RTAM volunteer. “The face-to-face interaction gave us a chance to build relationships and showcase the support and resources RTAM provides to retired educators.”
This initiative has already proven to be a successful complement to RTAM’s outreach efforts, strengthening connections with Manitoba’s teaching community and inspiring potential new members to join. As RTAM looks ahead, its commitment to fostering these relationships and advocating for the well-being of retired educators remains stronger than ever.
This article celebrates RTAM’s successful debut at SAGE 2024, highlighting its proactive efforts to engage and recruit new members while enhancing its presence in the educational community.
Lors de la conférence d’automne des ÉFM, le 25 octobre 2024, Jocelyne Fraser, Gisèle Grégoire et Lucille Daudet-Mitchell étaient présentes au kiosque des ÉMR. Nous avons rencontré plus de cinquante personnes qui ne connaissaient pas les ÉMR ni Méga-francofun. Félicitations à Carole Jung et Sara Belley, gagnantes du tirage des deux certificats cadeaux de 25 $ offerts par RTAM! C’était un vrai plaisir de revoir d’anciens collègues et de faire valoir notre groupe, les ÉMR! Semer des graines pour le futur!
Treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland
Submitted by Penny Hogan
One of the benefits of RTAM membership is RTAM’s affiliation with Trip Merchant. As a travel agency Trip Merchant works to provide members with benefits and savings along with unique trip opportunities worldwide. Trip Merchant Journeys (TMJ) is the company’s tour operator arm. Journeys develops their own travel programs to destinations worldwide, offering specific brand standards such as 16-24 passengers, 4-5-star hotels, most meals included, expert local guides/drivers, and included gratuities.
As lifelong travelers, my husband and I more recently have decided to leave much of the trip planning and execution of details to someone else. This definitely decreases the stress sometimes associated with a ‘Do it yourself” approach to travel. In late September, we joined Trip Merchant Journeys on the ‘Treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland’ coach tour. Our tour group of 24 travellers hailed from BC, AB, MB and even two Australians. It was a special treat to have Ryan Mikucki, one of Trip Merchant’s founders, along on this tour. Our Irish guide Derek, who accompanied the group on the entire trip, definitely added to the Irish experience with his often entertaining commentaries on the language, customs and history of the places visited.
The ‘Treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland’ included all the expected tourist highlights in Dublin, Belfast, Galway,
Tralee and Kilkenny as well as smaller villages. However, it was the unexpected, out of the way experiences that proved most special. One example in County Kilkenny was the site of the medieval village Newtown, Jerpoint and the12th century Cistercian Jerpoint Abbey on the hill above the town. The Abbey was founded in 1183 and served as a launching point for IrishNorman Crusaders from Kilkenny. A ruined church, located west of the Abbey site is all that remains today. In 2024, current owner of the private farmland site is Maeve, who after serving the group tea and scones with homemade jam, led us up a gravel lane, and into the church ruins located in the rolling Irish farmland. Maeve related the story of the ongoing restoration of a baptismal font in the ruined church, and of hosting curious archaeologists who come to visit. Is that unusual grave slab, circa 1300, the final resting place of St. Nicholas as the story goes?
Whether it was touring the Guinness Experience in Dublin, hearing the story of the potato famine and its devastating effect on the Irish population, climbing the winding stairs in Blarney Castle, hearing Dee, a local guide in Belfast recall being a teenager during the ‘Troubles’, or just enjoying a ‘Jamie-ginger’ in the lounge at Ballygarry House in Tralee after a busy day, there was much to enjoy on this latest Trip Merchant Journey … and Yes! I did kiss the Blarney Stone!
Calgary and area chapter visits the Calgary Hangar Flight Museum
Submitted by Penny Hogan
On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, members of Calgary Chapter visited the Calgary Hangar Flight Museum and enjoyed a fascinating tour. Whether participants were interested in the inner workings of a modern jet engine, or the history of flight beginning with the Silver Dart in 1909,
for training, viewing a replica of the Avro Arrow or the restored Lancaster Bomber, there was something for everyone.
“McCall’s Most Famous Flight”, recounting a story about WWI flying ace Freddie McCall, was complete with picture. The event was chronicled in the New York Tribune on August 3, 1919. The Tribune described how McCall, flying stunts post WWI with two young boys aboard, crash landed his airplane atop a Merry-GoRound at the Calgary Exhibition. The 1919 Exhibition was a precursor to the Calgary Stampede.
to honour Elsie McGill, noted McGill as the designer of the Maple Leaf Trainer II aircraft. McGill led the production of over 1,450 Canadian-made Hawker Hurricanes for the Allied war effort in the Second World War. This unique wartime contribution earned Elsie McGill the nickname “Queen of the Hurricanes”. McGill went on to earn the Order of Canada.
As with many museums, the Calgary Flight Museum is the kind of place that could be visited many times with new discoveries each visit. The outing concluded with lunch at a nearby
Activité de novembre des ÉMR
Atelier de fabrication de couronne d’hiver
Le jeudi 21 novembre 10 membres des ÉMR se sont rencontrés au Centre Communautaire de Grande Pointe pour fabriquer une couronne d’hiver.
Notre animatrice, Brenda Chaput, propriétaire de Fleuriste XO Flowers à Ile-des-Chênes a fourni tous les matériaux nécessaires pour la réussite de ce projet. Nous avions le choix de rubans, de boules et de pommes de pin pour orner nos couronnes. Ce temps des fêtes était à nos portes alors que l’arôme du pin et du cèdre imprégnait la pièce.
Experte dans ce domaine, Brenda a su nous guider, étape par étape, vers un produit dont nous étions tous fiers.
ÉMR Chapter November activity
On November 21st ten members of the ÉMR Chapter met at the Grande Pointe Community Centre to participate in a Winter Wreath Workshop. All materials needed were supplied by Brenda Chaput, owner of Fleuriste XO Flowers from Ile-des-Chênes. The holiday season was upon us as the aroma of pine and cedar permeated the room.
Southwest Assiniboine Chapter of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba
Submitted Laura Ellen Elliott
On Tuesday September 3, 2024, after a summer break, our group of 25 were happy to get together at the Legion Club Room in Virden. After everyone signed in, we had opening exercises and Grace. After enjoying a light lunch provided by the Legion Auxiliary Ladies, we had some fun with door prizes. Thank you for so many prizes brought by some of the members. Once we had cleared the prize table, we enjoyed hearing from Gabe Mercier, President of RTAM. Gabe talked about his history and did some reminiscing with members of SWAC as they knew a lot of the same people. He covered some of the many changes in RTAM and the new contract for teachers and subs.
We then moved into our meeting. After
the executives had presented their reports, we discussed donations. At this time and with the amount of money we have, we selected to donate it to Western Manitoba Youth Choir. This led to a discussion of other new places we would like to donate to. Others thought that we could donate to other types of groups and support the schools.
We then held our election. Laura Ellen Elliott will remain as President, VicePresident will remain unfilled, and Kathy Welsh will stay on as Secretary. Jerome Brockman will be approached to see if he would stay as treasurer. Peggy McGrath will stay on as Phone Coordinator, Beth Allison as Travel, and Pat Wolfe as Friendship Person.
We discussed the new Manitoba Teachers’ contract. There are some very interesting changes for substitute teachers, which have been included in 17 sections of the contract.
A discussion about changing the venue, different meal ideas, and future presentations occurred.
The meeting ended after the sharing of ideas. The next meeting will be on November 14th.
Retired
Teachers
of
Manitoba
recognize
Current
Educators Submitted
by
Laura
Ellen
Elliott
Retired
Teachers
of
Manitoba
recognize
Current
Educators
Submitted
by
Laura
Ellen
Elliott
The
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(RTAM)
suggested
to
associations
to
recognize
the
current
teachers.
The
Southwest
Assiniboine
Submitted
by
Laura
Ellen
Elliott
Retired Teachers of Manitoba recognize current educators
The
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(RTAM)
suggested
to
the
regional
associations
to
recognize
the
current
teachers.
The
Southwest
Assiniboine
Chapter
of
The
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(RTAM)
suggested
to
the
regional
associations
to
recognize
the
current
teachers.
The
Southwest
Assiniboine
Chapter
of
the
The
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(RTAM)
suggested
to
the
regional
associations
to
recognize
the
current
teachers.
The
Southwest
Assiniboine
Chapter
of
the
Submitted
by
Laura Ellen
Elliott Retired
Teachers
of
Manitoba
recognize
Current
Educators
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(SWAC)
decided
to
give
current
educators
a
gift.
the
help
of
2
grants
of
$250.00
each
from
RTAM,
a
donation
from
Jerome
(SWAC/RTAM)
&
TCaroline
Brockman,
and
Elliott
Brothers
of
Reston, we
purchased
pens
and
cards.
Members
of
committee
and
SWAC
Board
visited
most
of
the
schools
in
The
Fort
La
Bosse
School
Two
Schools
received
their
pens
and
cards
through
the
Division
Office.
They
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(SWAC)
decided
to
give
current
educators
With
the
help
of
2
grants
of
$250.00
each
from
RTAM,
a
donation
from
Jerome
Caroline
Brockman,
and
Elliott
Brothers
of
Reston, we
purchased
pens
and
cards.
the
gift
committee
and
SWAC
Board
visited
most
of
the
schools
in
The
Fort
Division.
Two
Schools
received
their
pens
and
cards
through
the
Division
presented
the
gifts
to
teachers,
EAs,
principals,
secretaries
and
librarians.
All
these
hands
on
with
the
students.
We
decided
to
present
to
Fort
La
Bosse
staff
because
area
most
of
our
association
is
from
and
we
meet
in
Virden.
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(SWAC)
decided
to
give
current
educators
a
With
the
help
of
2
grants
of
$250.00
each
from
RTAM,
a
donation
from
Jerome
(SWAC/RTAM)
Caroline
Brockman,
and
Elliott
Brothers
of
Reston, we
purchased
pens
and
cards.
Members
the
gift
committee
and
SWAC
Board
visited
most
of
the
schools
in
The
Fort
La
Bosse
School
Division.
Two
Schools
received
their
pens
and
cards
through
the
Division
Office.
presented
the
gifts
to
teachers,
EAs,
principals,
secretaries
and
librarians.
All
these
people
hands
on
with
the
students.
We
decided
to
present
to
Fort
La
Bosse
staff
because
this
area
most
of
our
association
is
from
and
we
meet
in
Virden.
presented
the
gifts
to
teachers,
EAs,
principals,
secretaries
and
librarians.
All
these
people
are
on
with
the
students.
We
decided
to
present
to
Fort
La
Bosse
staff
because
this
is
the
most
of
our
association
is
from
and
we
meet
in
Virden.
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Retired
Teachers’
Association
of
Manitoba
(SWAC)
decided
to
give
current
educators
a
gift.
With
the
help
of
2
grants
of
$250.00
each
from
RTAM,
a
donation
from
Jerome
(SWAC/RTAM)
&
Caroline
Brockman,
and
Elliott
Brothers
of
Reston, we
purchased
pens
and
cards.
Members
of
the
gift
committee
and
SWAC
Board
visited
most
of
the
schools
in
The
Fort
La
Bosse
School
Division.
Two
Schools
received
their
pens
and
cards
through
the
Division
Office.
They
presented
the
gifts
to
teachers,
EAs,
principals,
secretaries
and
librarians.
All
these
people
are
hands
on
with
the
students.
We
decided
to
present
to
Fort
La
Bosse
staff
because
this
is
the
area
most
of
our
association
is
from
and
we
meet
in
Virden.
he Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) suggested to the regional associations to recognize the current teachers. The Southwest Assiniboine Chapter of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (SWAC) decided to give current educators a gift. With the help of 2 grants of $250.00 each from RTAM, a donation from Jerome (SWAC/ RTAM) & Caroline Brockman, and Elliott Brothers of Reston, we purchased pens and cards. Members of the gift committee
and SWAC Board visited most of the schools in The Fort La Bosse School Division. Two Schools received their pens and cards through the Division Office. They presented the gifts to teachers, EAs, principals, secretaries and librarians. All of these people work hands on with the students. We decided to present to Fort La Bosse staff because this is the area most of our association is from and we meet in Virden.
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Far left: Mary Ellen Roach (SWAC/RTAM) Gift Committee member with some staff from Mary Montgomery School.
Left: Laura Ellen Elliott (SWAC) Gift Committee member with some staff from Virden Junior High.
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Laura
Ellen
Elliott
(SWAC)
Gift
Committee Committee
Member
with
some
staff
with
some
staff
from
Virden
Junior
from
Mary
Montgomery
School
Ellen
Elliott
(SWAC)
Gift
Committee Committee
Member
with
some
staff
from
Mary
Montgomery
School
Far right: Mary Ellen Roach (SWAC/RTAM) Gift Committee member with some staff from Kola School.
Right: Mary Ellen Roach (SWAC/RTAM) Gift Committee member with some staff from Reston School.
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Member
with
some
staff
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Junior
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Committee
Member
with
some
Mary
Ellen
Roach
(SWAC/RTAM)
Gift
Committee
Member
with
some
staff
Committee
Member
with
some
staff
from Reston
School Kola
School
Committee
Member
with
some
staff
from
From
Reston
School Kola
School
Member
with
some
staff
from From
Reston
School Kola
School
Motion = Muscle = Medicine
Submitted by Joan Zaretsky
Recently my massage therapist brought to my attention the many benefits of physical activity for people who are older adults such as myself and our RTAM members. She has some strong beliefs regarding the value of physical health, similar to Sue Lantz’s emphasis on Health in her 5 Strategies for effective “Aging in Place”. My massage therapist sent me the link to an article which she strongly promotes when working with her clients. While it was written 18 years ago (2006), the extensive collation of research findings and recommendations are still very relevant in today’s world. The article focuses on the importance of daily exercise and movement for seniors – “activity” – versus our societal hype that is placed on being physically “fit”.
In the article entitled “Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence”, Walburton, Nicol and Shannon (2006) summarized their findings in the following Abstract:
“The primary purpose of this narrative review was to evaluate the current literature and to provide further insight into the role physical inactivity plays in the development of chronic disease and premature death. We confirm that there is irrefutable evidence of the effectiveness of regular physical activity in the primary and secondary prevention of several chronic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis) and premature death. We also reveal that the current Health Canada physical activity guidelines are sufficient to elicit health benefits, especially in previously sedentary people. There appears to be a linear relation between physical activity and health status, such that a further increase in physical activity and fitness will lead to additional improvements in health status.
Physical inactivity is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and a widening variety of other chronic diseases including diabetes mellitus, cancer (colon and breast), obesity, hypertension, bone and joint diseases (osteoporosis and osteoarthritis) and depression. The prevalence of physical inactivity (among 51% of adult Canadians) is higher than that of all other modifiable risk factors. In this article, we review the current evidence relating to physical activity in the primary and secondary prevention of premature death from any cause, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers and osteoporosis. We discuss the evidence relating to physical fitness and musculoskeletal fitness and briefly describe the independent effects of frequency and intensity of physical activity.”
In this article, they discuss the difference between physical activity and physical fitness. We often associate the goal of “physical fitness” as being desirable for healthy longevity and are not always prepared to go the extra mile to be “fit” compared to simply being “active”. We fail to recognize that our normal daily physical activity with a few small inexpensive tweaks can contribute to our increased life expectancy and our enjoyment of our life along the way. The authors quote the research by Blair and colleagues which “argues that it is preferable to encourage people to become more physically active rather than physically fit” commenting that “sedentary people will likely achieve the fitness state if they do the activity.”
Another article, “Can you lengthen your life?” found in the Taking Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) magazine echoes these beliefs. Written by the National Institutes of Health, the organization noted,
“Even frail older adults can benefit from regular physical activity.
One NIH-funded study included over 600 adults ages 70 – 89, who were at risk of disability. They were randomly placed in either a moderate exercise program or a comparison group without structured exercise. The exercise group gradually worked up to 150 minutes of weekly activity. This included brisk walking, strength and balance training and flexibility exercises. … After more than 2 years, the physical activity group had less disability, and if they became disabled, they were disabled for a shorter time than those in the comparison group. The combination of different types of exercise – aerobic, strength and balance training and flexibility – is important to healthy aging.” (NIH News in Health, TOPS News, March/April 2024. p. 27).
Every bimonthly TOPS magazine includes a section called “Move More” with select articles dedicated to promoting easy to follow exercises and ideas of ways to increase your physical activity.
When living in Tucson over the winter, I attended weekly onehour exercise classes in the local Community Hall. They offered low impact aerobics, stretching and flexibility exercises and mindfulness activities for the 55+ community living in the mobile trailer park. Our instructor encouraged us to continue these exercises during the week in our homes. We even exercised our vocal cords singing 3 or 4 songs to start each session and our eyeballs, looking side to side and up and down to the count of 20. Check out your local community programs for similar activities to promote physical activity for older adults.
The St. Vital YMCA and six other centers across Winnipeg are part of a program called “Minds in Motion”. Designed to support individuals with mild to moderate dementia, caregivers and family members are invited to accompany their loved ones for 45 minutes of mild exercises. Joel Schlesinger, in an article entitled “Motion as Medicine”, talks about “a growing body of evidence that points to the importance of social, intellectual and physical engagement in helping mitigate the symptoms of dementia. The subtitle of the article was “Gentle exercise program keeps dementia patients active and helps reduce the impact of Alzheimer’s”.
What are some simple exercises you can do in your home on a regular basis to increase your physical activity?
1. Between commercials when you watch television, get up and take a walk around your home. Design a trail or route around your kitchen, living room, down your hallway, through the dining room to travel before returning to your television. During COVID, my route was 42 steps. Try to do as many laps as possible each evening to bolster other walking you have done during the day.
2. Strength training is very important. Using a rubber resistance band, put one end under the middle of your foot, then pull the other end up to your knee, your waist and/or higher depending upon your flexibility. You can strengthen your upper body by holding the bands in your hands and stretching them. Resistance bands are available at Diamond Athletics Medical Supplies, 97 Poseidon Bay, located behind the Pan Am Pool or can be ordered online from a number of sites including Amazon. They come in packages with various colors which have different degrees of elasticity to be used to gradually increase your strength.
3. Handheld weights are easily found in various department stores or around your home. While you sit and watch television, you can be lifting a weight, bending your elbow up 90 degrees from a flat position. Be sure your elbow is not resting on a chair arm!! You can start with something light such as a one-pound weight and increase the weight when you are ready. You can also use a can of food or other handheld weights you may have in your home. Start with a small number of repetitions and increase the number and the weight as you get stronger.
4. During different seasons in Winnipeg, going for a walk outdoors in the fresh air can give you a boost physically and mentally. Walking on your block or in a lush green park can be very relaxing. The time goes by quickly, especially if you find a friend to walk with you. In the winter months, shopping malls open early to encourage mall walkers prior to the stores opening. If you are a late riser, try to find a time during the day when there are not too many shoppers to cramp your stride. Focus on lengthening your stride as you walk.
These are just a few easy activities you can add to your daily routine in your home, without changing your current lifestyle. These small physical activities will improve your overall aerobic condition, your strength, your balance and your flexibility, as well as your mental health, resulting in increased longevity. Get into motion, build your muscles, take less medicine and live longer!!
References:
National Institutes of Health, News in Health. Can you lengthen your life? Taking Off Pounds Sensibly News, 2024: Vol 76, No. 2, p. 27.
Schlesinger, Joel. Motion as medicine. Winnipeg Free Press (Taken from a clipping without any date and page number).
Walburton DE, Nicol CW & and Shannon SD. Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence. Canadian Medical Association Journal 2006: 174 (6), p. 801-809.
Discovery of Vitamin F
Submitted by Joan Zaretsky
I received the following email from a friend. I hope you enjoy reading it and will value the importance of this new Vitamin to benefit your longevity!
Why do I have a variety of friends who are all so different in character?
How can I get along with them all?
I think that each one helps to bring out a “different” part of me. With one of them I am polite, with another, I joke. I sit down and talk about serious matters with one, with another, I laugh a lot. I listen to one friend’s problems. Then I listen to another one’s advice.
My friends are like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. When completed, they form a treasure box. A treasure of friends!
They are my friends who understand me better than I understand myself. They’re friends who support me through good days and bad. We all pray for each other.
Doctors tell us that friends are good for our health. Dr. Oz calls them Vitamin F (for Friends) and counts the benefits of friends as essential to our well-being. Research shows that people in strong social circles have less risk of depression and terminal strokes.
If you enjoy Vitamin F constantly, you can appear to be up to 30 years younger than your real age.
The warmth of friendship stops stress and even in your most intense moments, it decreases the chance of a cardiac arrest or stroke by 50%.
I’m so happy that I have a stock of Vitamin F! In summary, we should value our friends and keep in touch with them.
We should try to see the funny side of things and laugh together and pray for each other in the tough moments.
Thank you for being one of my Vitamins!
BuIlDING BRIDGES: RTAM welcomes Minister Grant Jackson and leader Wayne Ewasko
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) recently had the privilege of hosting Minister Grant Jackson and Progressive Conservative Party Leader Wayne Ewasko at RTAM’s office for a meaningful and engaging meeting. The visit provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss pressing issues facing Manitoba’s retired educators and older adults, reaffirming the PC Party’s commitment to supporting this vital demographic.
Representing RTAM were Advocacy Committee members Audrey Siemens, Marilyn Wiebe, and Past President Linda Blair, whose thoughtful questions reflected the concerns of members across the province. The discussions focused on critical topics, including longterm concerns with teacher pensions, guaranteed income for seniors, and
the broader needs of older adults in Manitoba.
Minister Jackson and Leader Ewasko displayed a commendable dedication to the dialogue, staying longer than anticipated to ensure all questions were addressed. Their willingness to listen and engage in open conversation left a positive impression, underscoring their role as strong advocates for Manitoba’s retired educators. “The insights and experiences shared by RTAM are invaluable as we shape policies that affect older adults and retired professionals,” remarked Leader Ewasko.
The meeting served as a reminder of the power of collaboration in tackling the challenges facing retirees. RTAM is deeply grateful for the time and effort Minister Jackson and Leader Ewasko
dedicated to this important discussion. Their commitment to understanding the complexities of teacher pensions, financial security, and aging with dignity offer hope for meaningful progress.
As we move forward, RTAM remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the well-being of retired educators and older adults, confident in the strength of partnerships like these. Together, we can build a future that ensures retirees are valued and supported in their golden years.
This article celebrates RTAM’s productive dialogue with key members of Manitoba’s PC Party and their shared commitment to addressing the needs of older adults and retired educators.
Advocating for Retired Teachers: A collaborative Town Hall with Cindy Lamoureux
Retired educators across Manitoba found a supportive ally in Cindy Lamoureux, leader of the Manitoba Liberal Party, during a recent town hall meeting hosted by the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM). The event, held earlier September, was an engaging and productive dialogue, reflecting RTAM’s ongoing commitment to championing the needs of its members and older adults across the province.
Representing RTAM was Director Marilyn Wiebe, a dedicated member of the Advocacy Committee. Known for her deep understanding of the issues affecting retirees, Marilyn posed thoughtful and incisive questions on behalf of the organization. Topics ranged from healthcare accessibility and pension security to the growing
need for affordable housing options tailored to older adults. Marilyn emphasized the vital role retired teachers continue to play in their communities and the importance of ensuring they are supported in their later years.
Cindy Lamoureux’s responses underscored her longstanding support for educators and older adults.
“Our retired teachers have shaped generations of Manitobans,” she said. “We owe them a future where they can thrive with dignity and respect.” Cindy elaborated on her vision for improving healthcare and ensuring financial stability for retirees, earning nods of approval from the attendees. Her approachable demeanor and clear commitment to advocacy resonated strongly with those present.
Adding a personal note to the occasion, RTAM extended warm congratulations to Cindy on the exciting new addition to her household. As she embarks on this joyful chapter, RTAM wishes her and her family all the best.
The town hall highlighted the power of open dialogue in driving change and fostering mutual understanding. RTAM remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the rights and well-being of retired educators, confident in the continued support of allies like Cindy Lamoureux. Together, we can build a brighter future for all older adults in Manitoba.
This article captures the spirit of collaboration and shared goals between RTAM and Manitoba’s Liberal Party leadership.
We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm, and adventure. There is no end to the adventures that we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open.
FloWERS: Indoor medicine throughout the year
Submitted by Joan Zaretsky
In the September 2024 “Wellness News”, there was a short clip about “Workplace Wellness with Flowers”. As I read it, it took me back to the fall and winter when I was on a sabbatical leave to write my doctoral dissertation. Each week, I would select a different bouquet of flowers from what was available in the grocery store and place them in a pretty vase in the centre of my dining room table. Their bright colours added a spark of energy and supported my writing through the long cold winter.
The article in the “Wellness News” highlights the importance of jazzing up your workspace with fresh flowers. (I added in the “home” environment as well!)
“Brightening your office (and home) with fresh flowers each week isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s a boost for mental well-being too. Studies show that being around flowers can reduce stress, enhance mood, and increase productivity. The vibrant colours and natural beauty bring a sense of calm and happiness to your workspace (and/or home), fostering creativity and positivity. Flowers also improve air quality, making your environment healthier. Whether you are aiming to create a more welcoming atmosphere or simply want to lift spirits, ordering (or purchasing) weekly flowers is a small, yet impactful way to promote mental wellness and joy in your workplace (or home).”
— Submitted by RoysFlorist.ca
As you prepare your gardens and flower beds in the fall, perhaps you can pot some plants to keep indoors over the next few months until spring appears. I often bring in some of my hanging plants each fall and place them on a windowsill, bench or shelf which allow them to receive the sun from our kitchen windows. They are there sharing their bright cheery colour to enhance our shorter days and longer nights until spring arrives with its longer warmer sunny days.
RTAM 2024 student award winners and their sponsors
Jayesh Maniar, Chair, Student Awards Committee
RTAM is pleased to congratulate the following winners and their sponsors for 2024:
Award Winner Location
Sponsor Relationship
Kamryn Boden Russell, MB Gary Boden Grandfather
Troy Boughton Winnipeg, MB Linda Boughton Grandmother
Brief description of post-secondary plans provided by the award recipients.
Kamryn Boden
I am enrolled in a Bachelor’s program of Social Work at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta. While I am still exploring my career options and interests, I am most interested in working with youth and mental wellness and in family law. Throughout my studies, I intend to stay involved in extracurricular activities such as sports and continue my community involvement through volunteering.
Troy Boughton
I am currently studying Business Management and Organizational Studies at the University of Huron and the Western University of Ontario in London, Ontario. I may also take advantage of my advanced early option (AEO) status to the Honours Business Administration Faculty in Ivey at the Western University in my third year. Or I may complete my BMOS degree and study Law or another graduate program. At this point in my studies, I have lots of options, but.I am not certain of my definite path yet. I am interested in financial planning, commercial real estate and corporate and sport law.
Raylyn Koshowski
I am currently attending the University of Calgary and am enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program. I volunteer with children with disabilities, where I am able to support their development and growth. Through both my volunteer activities and education, I am able to deepen my understanding of the unique needs of individuals which has fueled my passion for pursuing a career in Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Nursing or Medicine, particularly working with children with disabilities to help them reach their full potential. Upon completing my undergraduate degree at the University of Calgary, I will continue to pursue my graduate studies with the intention of returning to my home province following completion of my studies.
James Lesyk
I am currently studying at the University of Manitoba in the Faculty of Science. Right now, I am taking classes in general sciences, as I do not have a specific career in mind, though by the end of the year I hope to narrow down my options. It will likely be something in the fields of science or mathematics, where my passions lie heavily.
RTAM Award Winner of the Past
Alex Iwanchysko has become employed with Manitoba Hydro as a Power Maintenance Electrician. His post secondary journey took him through Red River College in Winnipeg through their apprenticeship program. He is now employed full-time and working in Gillam, Manitoba. Through the opportunities of scholarships like the RTAM student award, he was able to find a career that has made him very successful.
July 2024
Henry Fast – Steinbach, MB
Br. Jean Claude Guay – Joliette, QC
Margaret M. Healey – Winnipeg, MB
Michael Kachmar – Winnipeg, MB
Lorraine E. Mysak – Pine Falls, MB
Wilma D. Perrin – Brandon, MB
Harold Stewart – Brandon, MB
August 2024
Edgar Aston – Winnipeg, MB
Louis C. Baltus – Ste Anne, MB
Sylvia J. Bohonos – Winnipeg, MB
M. Irene Huska – Winnipeg, MB
Louise O. Shaw – Winnipeg, MB
Life Members
September 2024
Abe W. Peters – Winnipeg, MB
James M. Richtik – Winnipeg, MB
Joyce D. E. Simms – Russell, MB
Florence C. Torcutti – La Broquerie, MB
James A. Turner – Minnedosa, MB
October 2024
Lois I. Clark – Brandon, MB
Lawrence D. Nahachewsky – Brandon, MB
Joyce M. Nykoluk – Winnipeg, MB
Peter Prystupa – Winnipeg, MB
To respect the privacy of RTAM members, who can no longer share their consent with the RTAM office, moving forward their names In Memoriam will no longer be listed quarterly in KIT. Family members who wish to provide consent for their loved one’s name to appear in the In Memoriam can contact the RTAM office by email info@rtam.mb.ca. Only RTAM members will be listed.
In memory of RTAM members who dedicated their lives to education in Manitoba and beyond, we will remember you.
The four characteristics of humanism are curiosity, a free mind, belief in good taste, and belief in the human race.
STUDENT SUCCESS PORTFOLIO PROGRAM
PARTICIPANT APPLICATION FORM
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) Student Portfolio Project has been formed to engage communication and mentoring between RTAM members and their young relatives . Retired teachers can play a major role in the lives of their young relatives who are currently in high school by sharing their skills and strengths to guide the students to become successful and caring adults.
RTAM members are encouraged to communicate on a regular basis with their relatives to prompt their collection of appropriate documentation useful in the development of their Portfolio, their RTAM Student Award application as well as other scholarships or bursaries in preparation of attending a post-secondary institution.
Participation criteria:
1) Open to an RTAM Member and a young relative in Grade 9, 10, 11 or 12
2) Relative interested in preparing applications for scholarships or bursaries
APPLICANT’S INFORMATION (RTAM MEMBER)
PLEASE PRINT
First Name: Last Name:
Address:
City/Town: Province: Postal Code:
Phone Number: Cell Number:
E-mail Address:
Relationship to Recipient:
Portfolio Language Preference: English or French
RTAM wishes all members and recipients participating in this project, all the best in your future endeavors!
PROGRAMME STUDENT SUCCESS PORTFOLIO
FORMULAIRE DE DEMANDE
Le Student Portfolio Project (projet de portefeuille d’élève) de la Retired Teachers' Association of Manitoba (RTAM) a été créé pour favoriser la communication et le mentorat entre les membres de la RTAM et les jeunes de leur famille Les enseignant(e)s retraité(e)s peuvent jouer un rôle important dans l’existence de ces jeunes qui étudient actuellement au secondaire, en les faisant bénéficier de leurs compétences et de leurs forces pour les guider afin qu'ils deviennent des adultes épanouis et bienveillants
Les membres de la RTAM sont encouragés à communiquer régulièrement avec les jeunes de leur famille pour les inciter à rassembler la documentation nécessaire à l'élaboration de leur portefeuille, de leur demande de bourse d'études de la RTAM et d'autres bourses en vue de leur inscription dans un établissement d'enseignement postsecondaire
Critères de p articipation :
Critères de participation :
1) Ouvert à un(e) membre de la RTAM et à un(e) jeune de sa famille qui étudie en 9e, 10e, 11e ou 12e année
2) La jeune personne en question souhaite préparer des demandes de bourses d’études ou d’autres bourses
RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LE DEMANDEUR / LA DEMANDEUSE (MEMBRE DE LA RTAM)
EN LETTRES D’IMPRIMERIE
Prénom : Nom de famille :
Adresse :
Ville/Localité : Province : Code postal :
Téléphone : Cellulaire :
Courriel :
Lien de parenté avec le / la bénéficiaire :
Préférence linguistique pour le portefeuille : 0 angla is ou 0 français
RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LE / LA BÉNÉFICIAIRE (QUI EST EN PARENTÉ AVEC LA DEMANDEUSE / LE DEMANDEUR)
EN LETTRES D’IMPRIMERIE
Prénom : Nom de famille :
Adresse :
Ville/Localité : Province : Ville/Localité :
Téléphone : Cellulaire :
Courriel : Niveau (cocher la case correspondante) : 0 9e 0 10e 0 11e 0 12e
Nom de l ’école fréquentée actuellement :
Adresse de l’école :
Ville/Localité : Province : Code postal :
Téléphone de l ’école :
Courriel de l’école :
La RTAM souhaite aux membres et aux bénéficiaires qui participent à ce projet tout le succès possible!
Class reunions
The St. John’s High School graduating class of 1975 will be celebrating 50 years in June of 2025. If you were a St. John’s teacher in this era, or if you attended for even 10 minutes between 1970-1975, we’d love to have you on our contact list to keep you in the loop. Please email tigers1975@myyahoo.com to get connected.
LSRCSS Selkirk High School 50-year reunion Class of ‘75
We are looking for all teaching staff to attend our class reunion of 1975.
Friday July 18 – meet and greet at high school cafeteria 6-8pm
Saturday July 19 – reunion banquet at Selkirk Golf course
Contact Jim Schreyer for more info at js1975reunion@gmail.com
UP – UP – AND AWAY
Submitted by Joan Zaretsky
Read until the end ... you’ll laugh.
This two-letter word in English has more meanings than any other two-letter word, and that word is ‘UP.’It is listed in the dictionary as an [adv.], [prep.], [adj.], [n] or [v].
It’s easy to understand UP, meaning toward the sky or at the top of the list, but when we awaken in the morning, why do we wake UP?
At a meeting, why does a topic come UP?
Why do we speak UP, and why are the officers UP for election and why is it UP to the secretary to write UP a report? We call UP our friends, brighten UP a room, polish UP the silver, warm UP the leftovers and clean UP the kitchen. We lock UP the house and fix UP the old car.
At other times, this little word has real special meaning. People stir UP trouble, line UP for tickets, work UP an appetite, and think UP excuses.
To be dressed is one thing but to be dressed UP is special.
And this UP is confusing: A drain must be opened UP because it is stopped UP.
We open UP a store in the morning but we close it UP at night. We seem to be pretty mixed UP about UP!
To be knowledgeable about the proper uses of UP, look UP the word UP in the dictionary. In a desk-sized dictionary, it takes UP almost 1/4 of the page and can add UP to about 30 definitions.
If you are UP to it, you might try building UP a list of the many ways UP is used.
It will take UP a lot of your time, but if you don’t give UP, you may wind UP with a hundred or more.
When it threatens to rain, we say it is clouding UP. When the sun comes out, we say it is clearing UP. When it rains, the earth soaks it UP. When it does not rain for a while, things dry UP. One could go on and on, but I’ll wrap it UP, for now . . . my time is UP!
RTAM STUDENT AWARD APPLICATION FORM
The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) annually awards four (4) post-secondary STUDENT AWARDS of $1,000 each to relatives of RTAM members.
Criteria for selection (the applicant must be):
1) A relative of an RTAM Member (child, stepchild, grandchild, niece or nephew)
2) Involved in school and community activities
3) A recent Grade 12 graduate
4) Entering the first year of a post-secondary program (University or College)
Submissions to include the following (in standard 8½ x 11” format):
0 Student Award Application Form
0 Applicant’s comprehensive written description of employment, school and community activities (one page)
0 One (1) letter of reference/support from a non -family member (one page)
0 Final official high school transcript of marks (copy only)
If further information is required, please contact the RTAM office (see below).
APPLICANT’S INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT)
Full name:
Mailing Address:
City/Town:
Province/State: Postal Code/ZIP:
Phone Number: Cell Number:
E-mail Address:
Did you receive an RTAM Student Success Portfolio? 0 Yes 0 No
Applicant’s Signature : Date :
School Name (Graduated from Grade12):
School Street Address:
City/Town:
Post-Secondary Plans
Year Graduated:
Province/State: Postal Code/ZIP:
Program Location
RTAM SPONSORING MEMBER INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT)
Full Name:
Mailing Address:
City/Town:
Province/State: Postal Code/ZIP:
Home Phone Number: Cell Number:
Email Address:
TO BE COMPLETED BY SPONSORING RTAM MEMBER:
I confirm that the applicant , has the following relationship to me
RTAM Member’s Signature : Date : THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JULY 31, 2025 by mail/drop-off at 4:00 pm or by email at 11:59 pm Only the winners will be contacted in early fall.
FORMULAIRE DE DEMANDE DE BOURSE D’ÉTUDES DE LA RTAM
La Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) décerne chaque année quatre (4) bourses d’études postsecondaires de 1 000 $ chacune à des jeunes apparenté(e)s à des membres de la RTAM
Critè res de sé lection (auxquels doit satisfaire la demandeuse / le demandeur) :
1) A un lien de parenté avec un(e) membre de la RTAM (enfant, enfant de la conjointe/du conjoint, petit-enfant, nièce ou neveu)
2) Participe aux activités scolaires et communautaires.
3) Récemment diplômé(e) de la 12e année
4) Entre en première année dans un programme d’études postsecondaires (université ou collège)
Les dossiers doivent comprendre les documents suivants (en format standard 8½ x 11") :
0 Formulaire de demande de bourse d’études
0 Description écrite complète des emplois et des activités scolaires et communautaires de la candidate / du candidat (une page).
0 Une (1) lettre de référence/de soutien d’un(e) membre de la RTAM extérieur(e) à la famille
0 Dernier relevé de notes officiel de l’établissement secondaire (copie uniquement)
Si vous avez besoin de plus amples renseignements, communiquez avec le bureau de la RTAM (voir ci-dessous).
RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LA CANDIDATE / LE CANDIDAT (EN LETTRES D’IMPRIMERIE)
RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LE MEMBRE DE LA RTAM QUI PARRAINE LA DEMANDE (EN LETTRES D’IMPRIMERIE)
Nom et prénom :
Adresse postale :
Ville/Localité :
Téléphone :
Courriel :
Ville/Localité :
Téléphone :
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Base
Vegetable oil
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sifted icing sugar
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Filling
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp each baking powder and salt
2 eggs
1 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup finely chopped almonds or slivered almonds
3/4 cup maraschino cherries, drained and chopped (keep the juice)
1/3 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
Cherry Bars Delight
Submitted by Gisèle Grégoire
Topping
1/4 cup maraschino cherry juice
3 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 cups sifted icing sugar
1. Preheat oven at 350F. Spray a 9x13 in. baking dish with oil. In bowl, mix flour with 1/2 cup icing sugar. Using a pastry cutter, cut in the 1 cup of butter until coarse crumbs form (you can also use a food processor). Press over bottom of baking dish. Bake in centre of oven until light golden around edges (25 to 30 minutes).
2. Meanwhile, in a bowl, stir flour with baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs, stir in brown sugar. Gradually, stir in flour mixture, then almonds and cherries. Spread over warm base.
3. Bake at 350OF in centre rack of the oven until filling is set (25 to 30 minutes). Meanwhile, in a bowl, using an electric beater, beat cherry juice with butter and almond extract. Gradually add the 2 cups of icing sugar until fluffy. Cover and set aside. Cool bars, then evenly spread icing overtop. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before cutting into bars. Refrigerate for up to one week or freeze up to one month.
Enjoy!
Chocolate Nut Upside-Down Cake
Ingredients
10 tablespoons of butter (2/3 cup)
1/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup broken walnuts
1 3/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 eggs separated
3 squares unsweetened chocolate, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup milk
Instructions
1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan; stir in brown sugar; heat until bubbly. Stir in corn syrup and cream; heat stirring constantly, just to boil. Add nuts; pour into a generously buttered 10-inch (12 cups) angel food cake pan (mixture will be thin). Let stand while preparing cake batter.
2. Sift flour, baking powder and salt in bowl or on wax paper.
3. Beat remaining butter until soft in large bowl. Gradually beat in granulated sugar until well combined. Beat in egg yolks, melted chocolate and vanilla until well combined.
4. Add flour mixture, alternately with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Beat egg whites until stiff in a small bowl; fold into cake batter. Spoon batter evenly over nut mixture in pan.
5. Bake in moderate oven (350 degrees) 45 minutes or until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean.
6. Loosen cake from edges with a small knife; cover pan with serving plate; invert; shake gently, then lift off pan. Scoop out any nuts and syrup clinging to pan onto cake with a rubber scraper. Serve with whipped cream.
Bake at 350OF for 45 minutes.
Makes 10 servings.
Enjoy!
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