KIT Magazine - Winter 2017

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 29 | No. 3 | Winter 2017 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

PN 40037581

RUNNER U P

Submitted by Norma Donley

Submitted by Cindy Grabowecky

RUNNER U P

Submitted by Richard Kulbacki

Submitted by Laurel Sarginson

Photo Contest Winners Categories: Autumn Foliage and Canada Day

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 29 No. 3 • Winter, 2017

Published by

The ÉMR Chapter

Contents President’s Message............................................................................................................3 Preventing Financial Abuse, Health Care Directives, Power of Attorney, Wills and Help.....................................................................................4 RTAM STRATEGIC PLAN 2017.............................................................................................6 Stress-free Travelling Checklist.............................................................................................7 RTAM 2017 Award Winners.................................................................................................8 Seniors’ Advocacy Forum...................................................................................................11 Planning a Pre-retirement Seminar.....................................................................................11 A Dark Cloud on the Pension Security Horizon...................................................................12 It Is Time To Get Serious About..........................................................................................13 The Flu Shot For Older Seniors...........................................................................................13 RTAM Okanagan Chapter..................................................................................................14 Les ÉMR dans le Centre ville de Winnipeg - le 21 septembre 2017.....................................15 RTAM - Portage la Prairie...................................................................................................16 NARTA (Neepawa and Area Retired Teachers' Association).................................................17 Retired Women Teachers' Association Fashion Show...........................................................18 Harvest Moon Coffee House..............................................................................................18 Brandon College TTC ........................................................................................................19 Class of 1959/60 – 57th Anniversary.................................................................................19 Letters to the Editor...........................................................................................................20 Note from the Editor.........................................................................................................22 Ye Olde Rusty Classic........................................................................................................23 The Union Nationale des Normaliens/Normaliennes et Éducateurs/Éducatrices d’Haïti Receives the 2017 CTF Norm Goble World Teachers’ Day Award......................................24 In Memoriam & Life Members............................................................................................25 Winter 2018 Photography Contest.....................................................................................26 Photo Contest Entries........................................................................................................28 Province Reminds Drivers Of Winter Driving Conditions......................................................30

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by February 20, 2018, 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 2017

RETIRED TEACHERS’

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 2017-2018 President: Rosalie Bornn Vice -President: JoAnne Hoyak Secretary: Joan Dawson Treasurer: Carol Pelton Past President: Vacant Directors-at-Large Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen Guy Lacroix Alison Logan Ken Malcolm Judy Olmstead Peggy Prendergast Doreen Sage Ray Sitter Beth Smith Wally Stoyko John Sushelnitsky Design: Gayl Punzalan Creative Director, Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images : pxhere.com; pixabay.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2017 by RTAM All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RTAM, 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President’s Message Rosalie Bornn RTAM President 2017-2018

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

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reetings to all Readers of KIT! - RTAM now has a Strategic Plan in place to guide its organizational and budgetary priorities. I have asked that the Strategic Plan be printed in KIT to familiarize all interested readers with our current plan. The offfice staff and the Board of Directors, through their committee endeavours, are currently hard at work putting our Strategic Plan priorities into practice.

- The RTAM organization and the Political Advocacy and Pension Committees in particular, urge all members to stay vigilant with respect to legislative actions that may impact the future health and viability of our Defined Benefit pension plans for both public and private employees.

The Federal government’s current Bill C-27 is one such piece of legislation, that if passed, although specifically aimed at government employees, has the potential to have a precedentsetting effect on Defined Benefit pension plans in general into the future. If at all possible, let your Member of Parliament know that you are concerned.

- Congratulations to the recipients of the 2017 RTAM Student Awards who are acknowledged in this edition

of KIT. We, at RTAM, wish you much success as you embark on your personal post-secondary education paths.

- As is practice, the May 9, 2017, RTAM General Meeting reverts to a Winnipeg location. The newlyrenovated Holiday Inn Airport West has been secured as our AGM site, and the Office Staff and AGM Chair, Wally Stoyko, have initiated tentative planning. We remind all RTAM members that they are invited to register to attend the event, and thus should SAVE THE DATE! - A message to all RTAM members: “RTAM NEEDS YOU! “At this time, all of our director and committee member volunteer positions are of one-year duration.

Each year we anticipate vacancies on the RTAM Board of Directors and RTAM Committees. We do acknowledge that we seem to be more successful getting volunteer response from rural RTAM members, and are especially reaching out to city-based members to help maintain a rural/ urban balance to our Board and Committee membership.

- With the change in the office staffing model this past May, staff are not available to the RTAM office Continued on page 5

RTAM.MB.CA n 3

COMMITTEE REPORTS

WELLNESS SEMINAR

Preventing Financial Abuse, Health Care Directives, Power of Attorney, Wills and Help Maureen Recksiedler, Wellness Committee Member

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he Arts Forward Gallery in Neepawa was filled with retirees from Neepawa, Dauphin and surrounding communities. They were there to participate in a seminar on October 4, 2017, given by Sharon Tod. Sharon is a lawyer with St. Mary’s Law in Winnipeg. Many thanks to Wellness Committee member Joan Rink and her volunteers who took care of every detail ensuring that the seminar ran smoothly.

Sharon began her presentation by urging all of of us to have a Power of Attorney. It is very important to appoint a responsible person to act as our attorney to manage our affairs and make decisions when we may not be able to do it ourselves. The document becomes null and void when we die.

A will is equally important. It will take effect when we die. Sharon suggested that we choose a

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RTAM KIT Winter 2017

reliable executor who will carry out our wishes in a timely manner. We need to let our families and executors know where this document is kept.

There was a discussion about joint ownership of bank accounts and homes other than with a spouse. Sharon gave us some real life examples of how financial abuse may happen in these situations.

Another important document to have is a Health Care Directive. It is often referred to as a living will. It comes into effect when we do not have the capacity to make decisions with respect to treatment. As with wills, we need to make our wishes known to our families and proxy. Sharon suggested that we hand out copies of our Health Care Directive. ERIK kits were available on the registration table to take home. The kit comes with magnets attached so it can be placed on the

COMMITTEE REPORTS

fridge. It should contain pertinent information about current medications being taken so if an emergency takes place at home, paramedics will have this information readily available.

Having a Power of Attorney, Will, Health Care

Directive and a competent attorney and executor will give us peace of mind.

Planning ahead will ensure our wishes will be followed and help our family through a stressful time. ¡

President’s Message (continued from page 3)

on a daily basis to respond to member concerns.

However, as we are a small office environment, I do remind you that if you are planning to visit the office, please call in advance to ensure that Staff is present and available to meet with you.

- As the end of 2017 draws near, it is a time of reflection and hope. It only takes a few days of

following the local, national and international news to realize that we are really in a good place, and perhaps should spend more of our energy appreciating and celebrating that.

I wish one and all a holiday season of special times with family and friends and a happy, healthy and safe 2018! ¡

RTAM.MB.CA n 5

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM STRATEGIC PLAN 2017 Mission Statement (2014)

The mission of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) is to serve and advocate for all retired teachers.

Vision Statement (2014)

The vision of The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) is the economic well-being of retired teachers through appropriate member services and strong partner relationships.

Values and Principles (2014)

1. Advocacy

1.1 Goal: To build/strengthen better government relations.

1.2 Goal: To build/strengthen better MTS relations.

The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) values belief in mutual respect, diversity of opinion, tolerance of different viewpoints, integrity and transparency while working collaboratively towards a common goal.

2. Communication

PREAMBLE

3. Governance

In recent years, RTAM has worked toward formulating long range planning keeping in mind the development of a Strategic Plan intended to strengthen and focus the organization. An Ad Hoc Strategic Planning Committee was appointed in 2016-2017 with a mandate to develop an RTAM Strategic Plan, utilizing and building upon work that had been previously accomplished.

The RTAM Strategic Plan 2017 was adopted by the RTAM Board in June 2017. There are five pillars within Strategic Plan 2017: Advocacy, Communication, Governance, Member Services and Wellness. Strategic Plan 2017 is intended to guide the actions of the Board, direct resources and provide guidance to Committee work. As a living document, the Plan can be up-dated to reflect evolving needs and priorities of the organization.

The adoption of a strategic plan provides the structure to link the budgets and expenditures for

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committee projects to Strategic Plan 2017. This process gives the Board the ability to align funding priorities with strategic planning priorities as Committees develop their plans and initiatives and will improve fiscal accountability.

RTAM KIT Winter 2017

2.1 Goal: To improve KIT magazine.

2.2 Goal: To improve the website.

2.3 Goal: To facilitate new member participation on RTAM committees.

3.1 Goal: To improve governance and meeting effectiveness.

3.2 Goal: To establish area representation reflecting the proportion of rural and urban members.

3.3 Goal: To revitalize the Board by encouraging and recruiting new Directors from across the province.

4. Member Services

4.1 Goal: To build, maintain and serve the RTAM membership.

4.2 Goal: To improve overall membership support.

5. Wellness

Goal: To improve communication and advocacy on health, wellness and economic security issues for the RTAM membership. ¡

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Stress-free Travelling Checklist

S

hopping for a new bathing suit and flip flops shouldn’t be the only things at the top of your vacation “to do” list. Are your passports up to date? Are there any vaccines you may need for your specific destination? You probably only look at your passport when you need it and like most people don’t even remember the last time you had a tetanus shot, so putting these items as a top priority, prior to take off will help ensure that your trip goes off without a hitch. To help you along, we created a simple checklist.

Make health and safety a priority.

• Confirm well in advance if any vaccines or medications are needed before visiting the destination. If there are, make the appropriate appointments prior to your trip date. As Manitoba Health does not cover the cost of your vaccines, you may want to contact your health provider to confirm your current coverage. Using the following website http:// www.travelhealthclinics.ca/Travel-HealthClinic-Search.aspx you can find the nearest travel clinic by entering your postal code.

• Check for government issued travel advisories for the country or region you are planning to visit. For example is it safe to drink the tap water?

• Carry sufficient prescription medication and allergy treatments in your carry-on luggage, as well as a copy of the original prescription. Some countries have strict laws, even against overthe-counter medications, so a letter from your doctor is also a good idea.

• Share travel and destination information with loved ones in the event an emergency arises.

• Choose a trusted friend or relative to hold onto a photocopy of all your travel documents and passport in case of loss or theft.

• Have the proper documentation.

• Check to make sure all members of your party, including children and infants, have a valid

passport (and that it won’t be expiring while you’re away).

• If travelling outside your home province, carry provincial health cards, and driver’s licences.

• Add (or keep) your insurance wallet card to your wallet so you have easy access to their phone number should you need to call them for assistance while away.

• Be prepared for potential entry or exit fees from certain countries. These fees are not included in the price of your flight and can range from $25 to $200. Having the proper currency can avoid potential stress and delays at the airport.

Get travel insurance coverage

It’s important to take out travel insurance when you’re away on vacation, so that even if the unexpected happens, you can be prepared. To find out which travel insurance plan is right for you, contact us today.

Once you’ve checked these items off your to-do list, and your bags are packed, it’s important to not forget about preparing your home. Find out the best ways to keep your home protected while you’re away.

If you are currently covered under the RTAM Premier Travel Plan or MEDOC Travel Plan and have questions about your travel insurance or wish to enrol, please contact Johnson Insurance at 1.877.989.2600 or by email pbservicewest@johnson.ca Happy travelling! ¡ RTAM.MB.CA n 7

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM 2017 AWARD WINNERS Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Wellness and Educational Advocacy Committee

RTAM is pleased to congratulate the following winners and their sponsors for 2017:

Jane Harkness

Madison Lambert

Katlaina McEwen-McMillan Julia Miles

Award Winner

Location

Sponsor

Relationship

Jane Harkness Madison Lambert Katlaina McEwen-McMillan Julia Miles Jack Osiowy

Virden Portage la Prairie Winnipeg Winnipeg Winnipeg

David Harkness Linda M. Green Eleanor McMillan Salvatore Scaletta Doreen Poersch

Uncle Grandmother Grandmother Grandfather Grandmother

R

TAM established an endowment fund with The Winnipeg Foundation in 2013 with an initial contribution of $50,000. This fund provides support for four $600.00 awards each year to a Grade 12 graduate who is: sponsored by a relative who is an RTAM member, involved in school and community activities, and enrolled in some form of post-secondary education. There were 36 award applications submitted again this year. The selection committee strongly agreed there should be a fifth award this year. The RTAM Board concurred.

As retired teachers, we place a strong value on education. Growing the RTAM Endowment Fund at the Foundation would allow us to enlarge the size of the award available to each student to at least $1000, and, possibly expand the support for young people in their studies to include post graduate students and students already enrolled in post-secondary education. Compounding

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Jack Osiowy

RTAM KIT Winter 2017

is working well so far with the fund which on December 31, 2016, had a market value of $63,325.03.

On a personal note, I received two scholarships when I was entering university 70 years ago because one of the conditions on applying was that I be a child of a veteran. As much as the money was appreciated at the time so was the support I received in self-confidence. It was a young high school chemistry teacher who was a veteran himself who insisted I apply for these scholarships. As a result of my actions and in receiving these awards, my father's service in the army was recognized in a way that was a delight to him and my dreams of a University education were realized. It became a family dream come true. I know it has the same effect in the RTAM families that participate in this program, Any RTAM member will be delighted they could support and help a student in their family. It

COMMITTEE REPORTS also follows the "Pay it Forward" philosophy of living. Who better than retired teachers know the benefits of education? What a legacy we will leave!

Help grow the Retired Teachers of Manitoba Endowment Fund, held with The Winnipeg Foundation. Gifts can be made through The Foundation by phone, mail or internet. The Winnipeg Foundation is the registered charity through CRA and through the Winnipeg Foundation gifts to the fund are eligible for tax receipts. A bequest in your will or a memorial contribution as part of your funeral arrangements are suggestions for your consideration as is a donation as part of your annual charity giving.

Because an endowment fund lasts forever, a bequest to the Retired Teachers’ Endowment Fund through The Winnipeg Foundation is a powerful choice for supporting your community for generations to come, specifically helping young people realizing their dreams in attending post-secondary education. Everyone has their own reasons for planning a gift. Whether you want to create a legacy, generate tax savings or organize your estate, we are happy to work with you. If you need more information or already know exactly how you want to make a difference, please contact Jennifer Aarhus, at The Winnipeg Foundation at 204-944-9474 ext 259 or at donorservices@wpgfdn.org.

POST-SECONDARY PLANS Jane Harkness "For my future plans, my aspiration after completing my bachelors is to pursue a Master’s Degree in Museum Studies, and possibly a PhD in either History or Museum Studies to fulfill my dream of becoming a museum curator."

Madison Lambert "I am currently enrolled in my first year of post-secondary at Brandon University. I am pursuing a 4 year Bachelor of Science degree, with a major in Mathematics, and a double minor in Chemistry and Psychology.

Upon completion of my Bachelor’s

degree, I will then be pursuing my Bachelor of Education. Through my Bachelor of Education, I hope to fulfill my dream of becoming a high school educator."

Katlaina McEwen-McMillan "My goal after high school is to pursue an Arts degree at the Université de Saint Boniface. I hope to major in either Psychology or English and minor in French and continue on to become an educator.

I also hope to travel abroad for a semester to learn about different cultures in the upcoming years."

Julia Miles "I am currently enrolled in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Ottawa and am studying Environmental Studies. I am also working as a page in the House of Commons. After my year as a page, I plan on transferring to the Faculty of Science and hope to study Biomedical Science."

Jack Osiowy "I am currently enrolled in first year (Direct Entry) Engineering at the University of Manitoba. I plan to go into Electrical Engineering next year." ¡

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

COMMITTEE REPORTS

DID YOU KNOW • Since 1989, RTAM has been a strong voice for retired teachers.

• RTAM is a voluntary independent organization.

• The provincial organization and the local chapters work together serving retired teachers and advocating for their interests and welfare.

• There are 18 RTAM Chapters in Manitoba, one in Alberta and two in British Columbia.

• Full or associate membership in RTAM is available.

• Application forms can be obtained from TRAF, the RTAM office or the website, www.rtam.mb.ca.

• Membership fees are deducted monthly from TRAF pensions or paid annually for members who are not in receipt of a TRAF pension.

• RTAM has over 9,700 members.

• RTAM membership provides access to Optional Group Benefit Plans such as Travel, Dental, Extended Health etc.

• If you would like to find a Chapter in your area, contact the RTAM office at 204-889-3660, 1-888393-8082 (toll-free) or visit the website www.rtam.mb.ca.

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RTAM Presents

PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINARS

“Retirement from a Retired Teacher’s Perspective” Are you contemplating retiring in the next 5 years?

Retirees talk about finances, benefits and lifestyle change.

For Winnipeg and surrounding area: Saturday, February 24, 2018

1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Holiday Inn Airport West 2520 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB TO REGISTER, call the RTAM office at 204-889-3660, toll-free 1-888-393-8082, or email office@rtam.mb.ca with your full name, address, phone number, school division/school and name of your guest (if applicable).

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 14, 2018 For Westman and surrounding area: Saturday, March 17, 2018

1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

Central Community Centre 529 – 4th Street, Brandon, MB Please call Ray Sitter to register at 204-725-1745

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Seniors’ Advocacy Forum November 8, 2017 Gordon Howard Centre in SELKIRK, MB Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Wellness and Educational Advocacy Committee

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he Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority encompasses a large area of Manitoba. Older adults from Gimli, Lac du Bonnet, Petersfield, Stonewall, Victoria Beach and mainly the Selkirk area came to the ninth Seniors’ Advocacy Forum. Topics for discussion were: It’s Not Right: Neighbours, Friends & Families (Elder Abuse); Home Care in the Interlake; Housing Options as we Age; Programs and Services from the Selkirk Seniors Resource Council.

RTAM and MASC (Manitoba Association of Senior Centres) represented by Peggy Prendergast and Connie Newman, (both retired teachers) provided the leadership to organize these sessions. RHA employees provided the needed information, Senior Centres’ executives from the area introduced themselves and gave a brief

review of their services, booths from supporting services such as Man Sheds, the Selkirk Support Services Team and the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association also provided helpful information.

The importance of neighbours, friends and families becoming advocates for seniors and themselves was emphasized as was the part social isolation plays in a person’s life. Everyone, including older adults themselves, needs to become well informed about the health services available to them, how to ‘age in place’, and who to contact in this network of knowledge.

All the evaluations stated that RTAM and MASC should continue these forums. Some added comments were: “very enlightening and informative, an eye opener for me, excellent day and presentations, BRAVO.” We live in an age of living longer, why not live “well?” ¡

Planning a Pre-retirement Seminar

Left to right: Joan Goble, Joan Dawson, Ray Sitter, Audrey Greenhill, Pat Bowslaugh and Beth Smith, Chair RTAM.MB.CA n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

A Dark Cloud on the Pension Security Horizon JoAnne Hoyak, Pensions Chair and John Sushenitsky, Political Advocacy Chair

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t is not raining yet but there are dark clouds gathering over the security of our retired teachers’ pensions. The threat lies in Bill C-27, presently in second reading in the federal House of Commons. The Bill, if passed, would remove the certainty of the defined benefits (DB) approach to pensions to one of uncertainty dependent on the whims of the stock market. This second approach is named the defined contribution (DC) and it is being promoted by companies wishing to reduce the cost of their share to workers’ pensions.

If Bill C-27 is passed into law in its current form it would apply only to federally administered pension plans. It seeks to legally allow the conversion of DB pension agreements to a Target Benefit framework (DC). It will, however, set a precedent for provincial governments to follow if they believe it will save them money.

Remember when banks used to give you a decent return on your savings account. They took our savings and invested it in order to earn a profit for their customers. They took a risk on our behalf.

Then, the rules changed. We were told that we would have to invest ourselves and the banks would give us a minimal interest rate just to hold our money in one place. They transferred the risk from themselves to us. Some customers took the risk, others absorbed the loss .

There is a parallel here with moving the DB into a DC scheme. With the Defined Benefits approach, Continued on page 13

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

It Is Time To Get Serious About The Flu Shot For Older Seniors Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Wellness and Educational Advocacy Committee

A

s we age, the natural weakening of the immune system increases the chances of getting influenza (also known as the flu), which can result in serious complications for older adults. For the 2017-18 season an annual flu vaccine is especially important for those at increased risk of serious illness from the flu, their caregivers and close contacts. This includes: 1. People 65 years of age and older 2. Residents of personal care homes or long-term care facilities 3. Individuals with the following chronic health conditions: • An immune system weakened by disease or medical treatment • Cardiac or pulmonary disorders • Neurologic or neurodevelopmental conditions • Diabetes and other metabolic diseases • Renal disease • Anemia or hemoglobinopathy • Obesity (body mass index ≥ 40) To get your free flu vaccine and/or Pneu-P-23 vaccine (pneumonia vaccine), visit your local

public health office, nursing station, doctor's office, pharmacy, QuickCare Clinic, ACCESS Centre, or the nearest immunization clinic. Remember to contact your health care provider first to check for flu and/or Pneu-P-23 vaccine availability.

Your local pharmacist can provide immunization services to people seven years of age and older.

A further option to consider is FLUZONE high-dose Influenza Vaccine. People in long term care facilities will receive this vaccine free. There is a charge for others. Check your insurance company for coverage. Consult: www. fluzonehighdose.ca. for further information about this vaccine. ¡

A Dark Cloud . . . continued from previous page

which we retired teachers in Manitoba have, there is the certainty of knowing how much money we will get each month of our retirement. With the Defined Contribution approach we do not know how much our retired income will be; that will depend on the success, or lack of success, that our investments in the stock market produces. In effect, the risk has been transferred from the employer to the worker. In our case, it would be from the provincial government to the retired teachers.

The current fuss over the federal Finance Minister’s non disclosure of his villa in France as an asset is only a part of the picture. Mr. Morneau has been promoting the Defined Contribution

approach for some time, even before entering politics. Now, as Minister of Finance, he has been in a position to push that agenda. People across the country who believe that they have something to lose, are pushing back. That is the deep concern of retired teachers, along with many other retired groups, on DB pension plans.

RTAM has been tracking developments and offers you a sample letter to your Member of Parliament, should you wish to use it, expressing concern with the possible change in pension approach. The letter has been created by the British Columbia Retired Teachers' Association.

It is not raining yet, but . . . ¡ RTAM.MB.CA n 13

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM Okanagan Chapter Nancy Kostiuk. Photos by Roy Lycar

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he RTAM – Okanagan Annual BBQ and Potluck was held on August 12, 2017 in Oyama, attended by 21 members and guests. Attendees arrived from Salmon Arm to Penticton and points in between. Carol and Pete Rykszynsky graciously hosted the event at their lovely lakeshore home. Pete, along with Lorne Lisik tested the waters and went for a refreshing swim in Kalamalka Lake. The table displayed an amazing variety of dishes, from tasty salads to a glamorous Limoncello cake. Lorne Lisik mastered the BBQ and all production was done to a turn.

Members and guests, old and new, mingled and visited, having an enjoyable afternoon, despite the hazy atmosphere.

As Lorna Rothwell, my passenger, and I were leaving to turn south toward home in West Kelowna, we were met by the flashing lights of

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an RCMP cruiser. The officer informed us that the highway south had just been closed due to a roadside fire in Winfield, so we were turned away in the opposite direction. What to do? Our solution was to travel further north and connect to the Westside Road at the tip of Okanagan Lake, across the way from the fire. Driving the Westside Road would not be on anyone’s bucket list due to the numerous S-curves and switchbacks on mountainous terrain. However, the drive was very scenic and we did see some wildlife, a big-horned mountain sheep grazing roadside.

Thank you to RTAM for the Chapter Initiative Grant which enables us to connect with RTAM members and new retirees living in the Okanagan area. Members received an etched stemless wine glass to celebrate Canada’s 150 th birthday. ¡

CHAPTER REPORTS

Les ÉMR dans le Centre ville de Winnipeg - le 21 septembre 2017 par Evelyne Beaudoin

U

n bon groupe d’enseignants/enseignantes à la retraite se sont rendus à la bibliothèque du Millénaire de Winnipeg pour une tournée guidée par Paula Harrison, bibliothécaire aux Services spéciaux, le tout en français. Pour plusieurs, c’était la première fois à y mettre le pied alors on a appris un tas de choses au sujet de ce bijou dans notre milieu. La salle VIP au Shark Club nous a permis un dîner intime et savoureux.

En reprenant le Skywalk, on s'est dirigé ensuite au Musée des policiers où Randy James, un ex-policier avec 26 ans de service à la Ville de Winnipeg, a pu menotter, emprisonner et relâcher certains de nos membres trouvés innocents de tout crime ! Et la réponse à la question : « Quel est le nom du 1er shérif de la ville de Winnipeg, un métis bien connu… ?» Et bien, c’est Cuthbert Grant que vous pouvez apercevoir dans une des photos.

Ce musée est excellent! Il en vaut bien une visite!

Pour les heures de visite, vous pouvez contacter le musée au 204-986-3976. ¡

The ÉMR Chapter in Downtown Winnipeg September 21, 2017 Evelyne Beaudoin, translated by Norma Lacroix-Gagné

A

good group of ÉMR retired teachers met at the Millennium Library for a visit of this facility. Paula Harrison, who had studied in a French Immersion program and is now Librarian for Special Services, gave us a guided tour in French. For some of us, this was a first visit to the library, so we learned many things about this wonderful treasure in our city. Our lunch in the Shark Club's VIP room was both intimate and delicious.

Again taking the Skywalk, we made our way to the Winnipeg Police Museum. Randy James, a retired policeman with 26 years of service in the City of Winnipeg, managed to handcuff and imprison a few members, but then released them when found innocent of any crime! And the answer to the question: "What is the name of a well-known Metis leader who was the first sheriff in the City of Winnipeg?" The answer, of course, is Cuthbert Grant, after whom is named Winnipeg's Grant Street. This is an excellent museum, well worth a visit for groups, and families as well. You may call 204-986-3976 for visiting hours. ¡

Above: Group photo after our lunch at the Shark Club Far Right: Jailbirds Lyse Bisson and Evelyne Beaudoin Top Right: - In the library, the group listens attentively to Paula Harrison, our blonde guide.

Right: Our guide, Randy James, in front of the statue of Cuthbert Grant; in the background, Thérèse Fréchette and Gilberte Proteau RTAM.MB.CA n 15

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM - Portage la Prairie John Sushelnitsky, Chair, Political Advocacy

With the Political Advocacy initiative to celebrate the United Nations International Day of Older Persons, RTAM Director John Sushelnitsky and RTAM Chapter President Charlie Clifford watch Portage la Prairie Mayor Irving Ferris sign the proclamation highlighting the talents and contributions of senior citizens to their community. Similar activities took place throughout the province to celebrate October 1, 2017, and RTAM plans to continue this annual activity in the future.

Every Thursday, I entertain at a Seniors’ residence in Portage la Prairie and lately, Mrs. Iris Schofield, with a fine singing voice, has joined me in crooning the hits from the 20s, 30s and 40s. We call our weekly gathering the Good Tyme Gang and end every session with the Dale Evans/ Roy Rogers's classic “Happy Trails to You.” 16 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

Although somewhat small in number at this monthly breakfast meeting, the Portage la Prairie RTAM chapter, with over a 100 members in the area, enjoys updates on social events, retired teacher gossip and RTAM news. ¡

CHAPTER REPORTS

NARTA (Neepawa and Area Retired Teachers' Association) Text and photos: Ralph Cibula

Left to right: Claire Denbow, Wendy Denbow, Ruth Hanke, Patricia Cibula, Rose Switzer, Joan Rink, Richard Kulbaki, Ralph Cibula, Lawrence Warwaruck (co-owner).

O

n this beautiful day in September, 2017, some NARTA members took advantage of the RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant to tour two main facilities in Neepawa, Manitoba.

The Beautiful Plains Museum was established in the Town of Neepawa 1976. In 1981, it moved to the town’s former Canadian National Railway Station, built around 1902.

The museum tour was under the guidance of Helen Drysdale, curator.

Farmery Estate Brewery was next. This was a comprehensive tour conducted by Wayne Hildebrand.

The process from the malting barley field and the home grown hops to the end variety of several varieties of pasteurized alcoholic beverages was on

the agenda. This is spanking new equipment with an impressive tour involving at least five samplings in the end. This was a tour that any group would be impressed with.

Above, Lawrence Warwaruk, co-owner of Farmery Estate Brewery, poses with NARTA members at the end of their tour of the Farmery Estate Brewery in Neepawa, MB. Everyone had a great time, the tour was fantastic and everyone was impressed with the amount of hard work the two brothers put into this unique brewery concept. We are proud that Farmery Estate Brewery is a part of the Neepawa community.

This was a first time here for some of the members.

I am sure they will be back for more soon. ¡

Left to right are: Joan Rink, Richard Kulbaki, Patricia Cibula, Helen Drysdale, Museum curator, and Rose Switzer.

RTAM.MB.CA n 17

CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers' Association Fashion Show Heather Emberley

The models were: Front (l-r) Eleanor Schulz, Shirley Augustine, Dolores Tutkaluk, Cathie Morgan Matula, Cory Juan, Amy Eisner, Sandra Cerqueira. Back row (l-r) Pat Johnson, Brenda McConnell, Dorothy Young, Donna Majnusz, (Kelly Camara, Sarah Ahmad, Fay Hurd, from Northern Reflections) Diane Bewell, Margaret Tobin, Mary McQueen.

Harvest Moon Coffee House Dorothy Young

T

he St. James-Assiniboia Chapter of RTAM held a very successful Harvest Moon Coffee House on Saturday afternoon, October 21.

The singing was led by guest guitarist, Armando.

The crowd sang along with all of the tunes. Some members didn’t even need to look at the words on the song sheets because the songs were so familiar to them.

18 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

Coffee, tea, water and homemade apple crisp with ice cream were enjoyed by all those in attendance. Thank you to Marj, Mary and Shelley for making the delicious crisp and to the planning committee for this great social event. We are planning another event in the Spring when the snowbirds return. ¡

CHAPTER REPORTS

Brandon College TTC Class of 1959/60 – 57th Anniversary Pat Bowslaugh

Back: Donna Peterson (Airey), Gwen Coates (McNeill), Edna Verhelst (Houston), Andy Auriat, Joanne Hodgson, (Inkster), Bernette Mansell (Kirby), Phyllis Wray(Cochrane). Middle: Kathy Clark (Haigh), Margaret Martin (Robinson), Nancy Birch (Henton), Pat Curtis (Sparrow), Diane Taylor (Fowler), Fay Gillespie (Farley), Donna Vrooman (Cook), Darlene Bright (Bothe). Front: Pat Bowslaugh (Mowatt), Verna Sparks (Waytowich), Maralyne Roberts (Thorley), Marjorie years sonce obtaining

L

ucky Seven! That is what our Teacher Training Class decided two years ago, when we celebrated fifty years since obtaining that wonderful piece of paper that guaranteed we could start teaching . . . if we could find a teaching position.

Many of us had gathered to meet, greet and gossip about those fifty years when suddenly we realized that fifty years is a very long time and would we really be around to celebrate sixty years. Thus, we decided to try the "lucky seven," which just happened to also be Canada's year of celebration as a nation.

Nineteen of us (and fourteen guests) met at Shady Lane Tea House with individuals coming from as far away as Port Coquitlam, B.C., Toronto, Saskatchewan and throughout Manitoba. From

the moment the door opened people started to talk--and talk we did! We reviewed incidences of our year of training, student teaching events and remembered Dean McCutcheon, each of our staff and some of the outrageous paper mache dogs we created for Miss Harpley!

Others launched into school day events; many settled on details of children and grandchildren.

By the time six o'clock rolled around we sat down from our four hour visiting marathon and restored our energy with a delicious turkey dinner . . . and continued visiting! With cell phones snapping tons of pictures we were pleased to score one picture of the 19 tired celebrators as vision of a sixty-year event surfaced to our personal radar.

Please plan to be there! ¡

RTAM.MB.CA n 19

Letters to the Editor

H

i Doreen: I just read through the latest edition of KIT and I appreciate receiving it very much. Once again, it is simply excellent, filled with a variety of news and information, including Rosalie's report, health information, international volunteering, and cross provincial activities. On a personal note, the Riding Mountain Excursion story struck a chord with me. My Mom was born in Whitewater, Manitoba where the German POW's were later kept and in our area of Northwestern, Ontario, there are several POW sites like that where wood was harvested. Would you please pass on my congratulations to the folks that help make your magazine so successful.

Thanks, Brian Kenny President, ACER-CART Dear Doreen,

Thank you for the excellent articles in the latest KIT. I read this issue from cover to cover, something I haven't always done in the past. I appreciated the article by Ron Nordstrom regarding volunteering in Guatemala. What an excellent initiative by the Rotary Clubs and the hard work by the volunteers.

I especially enjoyed, and learned so much, from Judy Olmstead's article, Riding Mountain Excursion. She did a lot of work in researching the history of the area. When I was a little fellow I used to attend summer camp on the shores of the lake. The Seventh-day Adventist church had a campground near Camp Wannakumbak (perhaps on what is now designated Indian Reserve). I have such happy memories of swimming in the lake, skipping stones across the waves (only to be scolded by some of the men who said they'd worked hard to clear those stones out of the lake), evening campfires, and overnight hikes. I don't 20 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

think I've ever slept as soundly as I did on those overnight hikes when we'd unroll our sleeping bags under the stars.

I believe one of Dad's cousins, who was a conscientious objector during WWII, was sent to a work camp at Riding Mountain. I don't know whether he was building park infrastructure or cutting firewood.

Thanks for a great issue of KIT. Robert Ramsay Surrey, BC Teachers:

Retired or active teachers, you need to be aware and alert to changes that can/ will come your way.

We have in the past lived our lives in such a way that it would appear that we are separate groups with little in common with others, and when changes have occurred, we have responded in reactionary and ineffective ways.

Retirement generally occurs when we are approximately 60 -65 years of age. Life expectancy, at age 65, for men is age 84 and for women it is age 87 years. This obviously doesn’t mean that we will all reach those numbers, because statistics tend to be an average. Some of you (us) will live longer; some for a shorter period of time. What it does mean is that at some point we all retire and that most of us will be retired for a generally long period of time. Retirement looks different for everyone. Some continue working until they die.

Others will work for different periods of time in the same job or in some other.

We, fortunately, have an agreement with our employer to defer some of our salary into the future. Both we and the employer have agreed to the amount of our contributions to this deferred salary and the manner in which this deferred salary will be paid back to us. This deferred salary is our pension. What is still open to question is the manner in which our deferred salary will be

increased to meet the cost of living.

Currently, what we can be certain of is that the buying power of our pension will decline each year that we are retired because of inflation. We can also be certain that everything that we purchase in the future will increase in cost. We can also be certain that our needs and wants will change in retirement.

Initially we are active in our retirement. We want to go places and do things. As we age, we reduce this initial activity because we are unable, because of health or interest, to do what we had been doing. As we continue to age we continue to change what we do. We do less, we do things differently, or we stop doing some things altogether and we do other things. For example, we may stop traveling altogether. Each of these life changes requires a change in amounts of money that we spent, where we spend it and on what. The amount of money required continues to increase, in most cases. Some of it due to changes in our life some due to the loss of purchasing power of our pensions. Regardless, we need to reallocate and be sure that we have enough money to outlast our needs (outlasts us).

You are teachers, retired or not. You cannot ignore things that affect you. Be aware of changes that occur in your pensions or are proposed as changes in your pension. Retirement just doesn’t mean that we continue to do the things that we like and not think about the future. We do not have an inalienable right to a happy and carefree existence till we die nor do most of us have unlimited resources. You may be retired but you shouldn’t put your mind out to pasture. There are things to do and actions to take.

First of all you should look at your income coming in. Each of those changes in your retirement requires consideration. You may dislike budgeting. But running out of resources to do what you would like to do in retirement is small potatoes when compared to running out of funds to provide for your basic needs- food, shelter and other daily requirements. Changes in how

your retirement moves forward will be affected by what you can afford. Successful responses to this is easier now then it will be in 15 years or 20 years’ time. Investing in lottery tickets is not an answer. Ongoing planning using a rough budget should be part of your life plan. Precise planning is not necessary but you should have a plan for foreseeable changes as time goes along in your retirement. What you must always take into account is “money in should match money out”.

Beware of laws, written and those proposed, that are injurious to your pensions. By law, pension funds, are far down the list of who gets pension money that is already set aside, if a company goes bankrupt, is sold to a foreign company or if the company just wants to close and move out of country. We need to get our government to change that. Pension money is our deferred wages. How dare they take and give it to others. Question your M.Ps. Are they in favor or against it? What will they do about it? Changing pensions from defined benefit to defined contribution or target pension plans. Learn about them and realize that the plan is to allow provinces and companies, by law, to replace defined benefit plans with defined contributions or target systems. Are these plans inferior? You bet they are. Your pension may be largely unchanged, right now. We need to understand that a forest fire starts small. If given time, it is very difficult to stop and it sprreads.

We need to object and object loudly through our political representatives. Our pensions are agreed to by both us and our employers. One party should not be able to change the agreement without out approval. You should be mad as hell.

In effect your money is being stolen from you.

For your interest, I will describe Defined Benefit, Defined Contribution and Target Benefit pensions. These are the most frequently talked about pension plans in the pension world.

Thanks, Ray Sitter, Retired Manitoba Teacher RTAM.MB.CA n 21

In Memoriam Gwendolyn Christine Watson left us for a new adventure on September 16, 2017.

Gwen was a very valued editor of the Editorial Committee for KIT and she and her skills will be greatly missed.

Sincere condolences to Gwen's family and friends.

Note from the Editor

F

rom time to time KIT receives article submissions from folks who desire to recount their experiences as students or as teachers.

Such writers draw from a depth of experiences that sometimes reach back many decades.

Recently, the KIT editorial committee was reminded that a person’s reliance on memory of an incident, as strongly felt as some incidents may be, are subject to an emotional recollection and may not be as accurate as stated by a writer. There is also a possibility that another person who recalls the same incident has a different perspective and could take offense with a statement that differs from their recollection or the use of their name without permission in the narrative.

In the Summer 2017 issue of KIT, the article “Memories” about the early teaching experience of Olive G. Zeemel in the 1930s was not well received by a reader who also lived that early

22 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

experience. Dorothy Campbell Weselake was a member of the Campbell household described in the article and has asked that the following corrections be noted: • Dorothy’s mother, Florence Campbell, was the daughter of Ellen A. Inkster who grew up in the old Inkster home in Winnipeg, which is now the Seven Oaks Museum. Ellen A. Inkster married Henry McKay. • Dorothy’s recollections of meal times is that the family always ate in the dining room with white linen tablecloths. Animals were not skinned at the dinner table.

KIT regrets that the views of the original writer of the article caused offense to the Campbell family. The KIT Editorial Committee is reviewing its submission guidelines to ensure a more sensitive approach in the future.

Ye Olde Rusty Classic Text and photos: Lana Rinn

O

n September 5, 2017, Carman Golf and Curling Club hosted the 2017 Ye Olde Rusty Classic. One hundred and forty golfers enjoyed the “breezy” weather, good golf and great food. As usual, old friends were reunited and new friends were created. The tournament

featured two “hole-in-one’’ contests for a lease on a new car from Carman Ford and $5000 in merchandise from Janzen Pontiac in Carman.

The Carman Veterinary Clinic donated $100 for “closest to the pin on old #2 hole.” ¡

Winners of the Men’s flight were:

1st Bruce North, Bill North, Blake North & Neil Martin: 58 2nd Dennis Rinn, Fred Erb, Tom Forest & Walt Menzies: 63

Glen McKinnon, one of the organizers of the first tournament with the putter, passed on to next year’s hosts. The putter belonged to Brian Parker, the other organizer of the first tournament

Winners of the Ladies’ Flight:

1st Cheryl Dann, Pat Fenske, Linda Rolof & Charlene Fox: 71 Mixed Flight: 12 1st Jim Dewart, Claudette Closson, Gene Richot & Beatrice Richot: 69 2nd Beth Bisson, Ed Hildebrand, Jessie Hildebrand & Gary Barkman: 71 Ladies' Closest to pin #8: Linda Gosselin Men's Closest to pin #6: Bill North Ladies’ Longest Drive #11: Nancy Reyda Men’s Longest Drive #15: Terry Gabrielle Ladies’ Longest Putt on #9: Linda Gosselin Men’s Longest Putt on #18: Ed Gautron

Picture of Jean Gisiger intently watching his putt in the putting contest, with daughter Michelle watching on. Two generations of retired teachers taking part in the tournament together—how wonderful RTAM.MB.CA n 23

The Union Nationale des Normaliens/ Normaliennes et Éducateurs/Éducatrices d’Haïti receives the 2017 CTF Norm Goble World Teachers’ Day Award Reprinted with permission from Canadian Teachers Federation October 5, 2017

OTTAWA – The Canadian Teachers’ Federation (CTF) is proud to announce that the Union Nationale des Normaliens/Normaliennes et Éducateurs/Éducatrices d’Haïti (UNNOEH) is the 2017 recipient of the CTF Norm Goble World Teachers’ Day Award. This award is granted annually to a CTF partner organization for its World Teachers’ Day (WTD) activities. The award was first presented in 2014.

Dr. Norman Goble, better known as Norm, served as the CTF Secretary General for 12 years, from 1970 to 1982, and the Secretary General of the World Confederation of Organizations of the Teaching Profession from 1982 to 1988. Norm made many stellar contributions to education in Canada and throughout the world, and is rightly credited for his work in the initiation of WTD. Following Norm’s lead, and working through Education International (EI), CTF lobbied for the creation of WTD. In 1994, UNESCO inaugurated WTD to focus attention on the contributions and achievements of teachers, and to highlight teachers’ concerns and priorities regarding education. October 5 was selected as the date to internationally celebrate teachers because on that date in 1966, a special intergovernmental conference adopted the UNESCO recommendation concerning the status of teachers. Norm was a delegate at that seminal meeting. For the first time, this recommendation

24 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

gave teachers throughout the world an instrument that defines their responsibilities and asserts their rights. In adopting this recommendation, governments unanimously recognized the importance for society to have competent, qualified and motivated teachers.

The UNNOEH is one of CTF’s newest partners, committed to raising the status of the teaching profession and to highlight teachers as professionals in their country. The CTF Norm Goble WTD Award includes CAN$1,000 for the recipient organization to carry out its proposed WTD activities. In addition to the Award, CTF has also cited the Fédération des Syndicats de l’Éducation Nationale in Togo and the National Teachers’ Association of Liberia for Honourable Mentions, which include $500 for the recipients to use in their WTD celebrations.

Those eligible for the award must be national or regional teacher organizations outside of Canada, partners of CTF — that is organizations that have entered into agreements with CTF between 2010 and 2017 — and affiliated with EI. Recipients are chosen based on proposals for WTD activities.

Founded in 1920, the Canadian Teachers’ Federation is a non-profit organization and a national alliance of provincial and territorial Member organizations that represent over 232,000 teachers across Canada. CTF is also a member of Education International. @ CanTeachersFed and @EnseigneCanada. ¡

In Memoriam As received from TRAF June 2017 Stanley Bullock, North Saanich, BC Russell Roney, Brandon, MB

July 2017 Anne Boschman, Mission, BC Lucile J. Freynet, Winnipeg, MB Steve George Gazdewich, Winnipeg, MB Elizabeth Giesbrecht, Winnipeg, MB Brian Algot Josephson, Brandon, MB Michelle Rollande Lalancette Portage la Prairie, MB Juanita L. Loat, Winnipeg, MB Germaine E. Lussier, Winnipeg, MB Clarence M. McMullen, Winnipeg, MB Flora Mae Nordman, Winnipeg, MB James George Ogston, Winnipeg, MB Marie E. Potier, Winnipeg, MB Casimir John Pyra, Winnipeg, MB

Louis R. Simkulak, Winnipeg, MB Inga Storgaard, Winnipeg, MB Gertrude M. Templeton, Winnipeg, MB Heather Marie Wenger, Vernon, BC Donna Wilkins, Winnipeg, MB

Patricia A. Taylor, East St. Paul, MB Allen H. Valentine, Winnipeg, MB William Welsh, Winnipeg, MB Shirley G. Willoughby, Gladstone, MB Lillian G. Wonnacott, Winnipeg, MB

August 2017

September 2017

George I.H. Atwell, East St. Paul, MB A. Grace Balderstone, Kelowna, BC Susan Elizabeth Berry, Winnipeg ,MB Walter M. Bohonos, Arborg, MB Stella M. Cummings, Carman, MB Irvin Victor Hanec, Ile des Chenes East, MB Dale Marie Edna Laird, Vancouver, BC Katherine Lee, Winnipeg, MB Catherine Mary Nizio, Winnipeg, MB Bertha W. Norberg, Winnipeg, MB Miro A. Procaylo, Winnipeg, MB Frank Senkow, Winnipeg, MB

Katie Brown, Winkler, MB Jean E. Deans, Winnipeg, MB Andrew Frederick Gault, Winnipeg, MB Doreen L. Gilbart, Victoria, BC Anna Rose Marie Labelle, Glenlea, MB William H. Rentz, Edmonton, AB Phyllis A. Rodych, Winnipeg, MB Dorothy Schram, Cartwright, MB Roy James Stevenson, Winnipeg, MB E. Lorraine Taylor, Kelowna, BC Patrick Charles Turner, Birtle, MB Gwendolyn Christine Watson, Matlock, MB

Life Members As presented by RTAM August 2017

September 2017

Vera R. Butterworth, Winnipeg, MB Gilberte A. Champagne Sherwood Park, AB Alda B. Gillies, Winnipeg, MB Mary Kubas, Fisher Branch, MB Glenn H. Nicholls, Brandon, MB Anne C. Yanchyshyn, Winnipeg, MB

Irene E. Belanger, Nanaimo, BC Phyllis A. Hunt, Winnipeg, MB Beatrice S. Moore, Winnipeg, MB A. Milton Muldrew, Winnipeg, MB Roberta L. Ratz, Brandon, MB L.J. Maxwell Taylor, Qualicum Beach, BC

October 2017 Cecile Campeau, Winnipeg, MB Dorothy B. Flood, Winnipeg, MB Phyllis I. Hunter, Winnipeg, MB Lorne L. Karlowsky, Winnipeg, MB Ella Marie Mitchell, Grandview, MB Louise J. Mydynski, Qualicum Beach, BC

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

RTAM

Photography

Winter 2018 Photo Contest

CONTEST

The KIT editorial committee announces a photo contest. The two categories are: • Joy: Something that make you feel joy. What makes you happy? A new something, a lovely sunset or sunrise, a snowy day, a beautiful plant or display? Take a picture of it and send it in.

• Manitoba Skies: Sunny or stormy, day or night, Manitoba has a variety of intriguing skies. Send us your favourite shot.

All entries to be sent by mail, email, fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 3:00 p.m. April 3, 2018.

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

RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA (RTAM)

Winter 2018 Photo Contest Official Entry Form

PLEASE PRINT NAME ADDRESS

POSTAL CODE

PHONE

EMAIL

CATEGORY ❏ Joy ❏ Manitoba Skies

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE: (optional)

DECLARATION I agree to abide by the RTAM WINTER 2018 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 2018 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 3, 2018 26 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

THIS FORM MAY BE PHOTOCOPIED.

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

Winter 2018 PHOTO CONTEST RULES ENTRY DEADLINE: 3:00 p.m. April 3, 2018

• Full and Associate RTAM members, in good standing, may submit two photos for each category.

• Judging by Gayl Punzalan, managing partner of Blue Ink Media.

• Winners will be announced in the Summer 2018 edition of KIT, as well as posted on the RTAM website.

Each photo can be entered in one of the following categories: • Joy: What makes you joyous? A new or favourite something, a lovely sunset or sunrise, a snowy day, a beautiful plant or display? Take a picture of it and send it in.

• Manitoba Skies: Sunny or stormy, day or night, Manitoba has a variety of intriguing skies. Send us your favourite shot.

RULES:

• Entries submitted by postal service, courier or hand delivered to the RTAM office at 206-1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3H 1B5 must be received no later than 3:00 p.m. on April 3, 2018.

• 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.

• Electronic entries will also be accepted. They will be printed by the Photo Contest committee.

Send these entries to office@rtam.mb.ca no later than April 3, 2018. Please include all the information needed to identify your photos so that the entry forms can be attached to them.

The signed entry form for each electronic entry must be submitted by postal service, courier,

fax, email or hand delivered to the RTAM office by the entry deadline. The entry forms will be attached at the RTAM office.

• Participants are limited to two photos per category.

• Each entry must be the work of the participant.

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

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

• Only entries with a copy of the official entry form ATTACHED TO THE BACK OF THE ENTRY will be accepted. Since the entry form is detached from the back during the judging process, attach the form using a bit of tape only.

DO NOT GLUE the form to the back of the photo.

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

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

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

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

• All prizes will be accepted as awarded.

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

• Entries must be received at the RTAM office no later than 3:00 p.m. on April 3, 2018.

RTAM Winter 2018 Photo Contest

206-1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Questions? Please call 204-889-3660, 1-888-393-8082 (toll-free) or email info@rtam.mb.ca or Fax 1-204-783-2011

RTAM.MB.CA n 27

PHOTO CONTEST ENTRIES Thank you to all of the entrants in our photo contest. All of the photos were great. Our judge, Gayl Punzalan, had a very difficult time choosing the finalists.

The directors and judge were very impressed with the quality and variety of the photos. All of the entries are posted in this edition of KIT and will be placed on the RTAM website soon. Some of the pictures will be used in future editions of KIT. as space permits. We encourage you to keep entering the KIT contest.

Thank you to Joan Dawson and Judy Olmstead who looked after the competition.

28 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

Province Reminds Drivers Of Winter Driving Conditions As Weather Statement Is Issued

M

anitoba Infrastructure reminds motorists that snow-clearing equipment will be on highways if and when adverse weather conditions develop.

With a special weather statement having been issued for areas of the province, drivers are reminded all maintenance equipment uses flashing blue warning lights and motorists should stay well back of the equipment. Slow down when passing approaching snowplows and do not attempt to pass a plow in operation from behind.

Whether on a highway or in a community, the

posted speed limit is intended for ideal road and weather conditions. In bad weather or on slippery highways, motorists are requested to slow down and drive according to the conditions.

For the most recent information on road conditions or highway safety, visit www. manitoba511.ca, call 511 or follow the Twitter account for road closures at www.twitter.com/ MBGovRoads. A Manitoba 511 app is now available for download from the Manitoba Residents Portal at http://residents.gov.mb.ca/apps/511.html

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 mailing address.

30 n RTAM KIT Winter 2017

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS The Manitoba Museum

is looking for English and Bilingual Volunteer Tour Guides to deliver curriculum based education programs. Volunteers receive free admission to the Museum, Science Gallery and Planetarium along with discounts on Museum Shop purchases and continued learning opportunities. A bus ticket and parking subsidy is also available. A history, science or education background is an asset, though not necessary as comprehensive training is provided on all programs delivered. Program delivery is flexible depending on your interests and availability.

If you enjoy working with children (K – 12), and have a minimum of 3 hours per week to volunteer, the Manitoba Museum will be a great fit for you! For more information contact Noreen at (204) 988-0633 or by email at nhees@manitobamuseum.ca.

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

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

The Winnipeg School Division Adult EAL Program

Located at 275 Portage Avenue, is seeking volunteers to help adult newcomers learning English, starting in or after September 2017. Activities include assisting students with classroom activities, leading conversations in small groups, or helping students one-on-one.

Volunteers must have experience assisting learners, good command of English (equivalent of CLB 7 or higher), good communication and interpersonal skills, and should be willing to accept directions and supervision from staff.

The minimum time commitment is once per week, for two months, at one of our daytime class schedules: · 9:15 AM to 12:15 PM; · 12:45 p.m. to 2:45 PM; · 12:45 PM to 3:45 PM; · 5:15 PM to 7:15 PM; or · 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. For more information, please contact volunteer coordinator Ana Azevedo at (204) 953 1070 extension 8, or at aazevedo@wsd1.org

Give the Gift of Art Classes

Forum Art Centre, 120 Eugenie St., 204-235-1069 or visit www.forumartcentre.com. Registration starts Nov. 11th with an Open House on December 14th. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. for winter classes starting January 8, 2018.

Fitness, Fun and Friendship!!!

Learn Modern Square Dancing at Kirkfield-Westwood Community Club, 165 Sansome Ave - Open House on Friday, January 12 2018 7:00 - 9:30 pm. Singles, couples and inexperienced dancers welcome. Dancing continues every Friday evening; your first three dances are free! Join in the fun! Keep fit! Find great, new friends. For more info call Carole at 204-831-8954.

Teaching Opportunities in Nunavut

The Government of Nunavut Department of Education is seeking to recruit teachers to work in the Qikiqtani (Baffin Island) region of Nunavut as soon as possible.

We are reaching out to retired teachers who might be interested in full time, indeterminate and term teaching positions within Nunavut. We have 40 positions available for hire.

For more information, email info.edu@gov.nu.ca

RTAM Annual General Meeting 2018 May 9, 2018

Chapter Presidents Meeting May 8, 2018

RTAM.MB.CA n 31

Voluntary Benefits for RTAM Members.

RTAM’s goal is to provide the best voluntary benefits at a competitive price to meet the insurance needs of the majority of retired teachers. Since 1998, we achieved this through RTAM’s sponsorship of an increasing range of voluntary insurance plans.

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

Premier Travel with Trip Cancellation Additional Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Extended Health Care Dental Care

• Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance • Term Life Insurance • Home Insurance

For more information please contact the plan administrator, Johnson Insurance.

1-877-989-2600 | pbservicewest@johnson.ca www.johnson.ca/rtam 11120 – 178 Street NW, Edmonton, AB. T5S 1P2

RTAM sponsors pre-retirement seminars for teachers Johnson Insurance is a tradename of Johnson Inc. (“Johnson”) and operates as Johnson Insurance Services in British Columbia. Johnson is a licensed insurance intermediary. RTAM Plans are administered by Johnson Inc. Premier Travel, Health and Dental are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security. Travel Insurance and Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Insurance are underwritten by RSA Canada. Home insurance is available through Johnson Inc. a licensed insurance intermediary. Policies are primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company. Eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions may apply. 0459_16