KIT Magazine - Fall 2015

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 27 | No. 2 | Fall, 2015 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 1-204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | rtam@mymts.net | rtam.mb.ca

Wellness Seminar More Health Benefits from ASSINIBOINE PARK October 14, 2015 Health Benefits of “Indoor Plants” Workshop: 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

GOURMET LUNCH and “Birding in the Park” Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Health Benefits of "CHOCOLATE” Workshop: 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Presenter: KAREN LIND Educational Director at Assiniboine Park Cost, including lunch

$35.00

Registration Send cheque, payable to RTAM: Maureen Recksiedler Box 744 Stonewall, MB R0C 2Z0 204-467-8518 grecks@xplornet.ca

PN 40037581

NUMBER LIMITED TO 35 Deadline: October 5, 2015

KEEP IN TOUCH All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed to dsage@mts.net, file in Word and no formatting and received by November 10, 2015, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies nor views of RTAM.

UPCOMING EVENTS

October 14, 2015: Wellness Seminar to be held at the Qualico Centre at Assiniboine Park. Topics to include: health giving properties of indoor plants, birding and the value of chocolate!

May 10, 2016: Chapter Presidents' Meeting (Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg) May 11, 2016: RTAM AGM (Norwood Hotel, Winnipeg) RTAM Travel Seminars Third Wednesday of each month RTAM Office, 1555 St. James Street, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

RTAM PLANS ADMINISTERED BY JOHNSON INC.

If you require information and brochures, or if you have any questions concerning these plans (Dental, HouseInsurance, Long Term Care, Life, Emergency Medical Travel) contact: Johnson Inc. Claims and Administration Information 11120 178th Street, Edmonton AB T5S 1P2 Toll Free 1-877-989-2600 | Phone (780) 413-6536 |Fax (780) 420-6082 Email: pbservicewest@johnson.ca

Vol. 27 No. 2 • Fall, 2015

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: rtam@mymts.net • www.rtam.mb.ca Editor-in-Chief: Doreen Sage Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Phone: 204-476-5772 Email: dsage@mymts.net Administrative Assistant: Carol Gillis Office Assistant: Grace Reimer Board of Directors 2015-2016 President: Marvin Krawec Vice -President: Rosalie Bornn Secretary: Joan Dawson Treasurer: Judy Olmstead Past President: Wayne Hughes

NOTICE TO PAID KIT ADVERTISERS

Directors-at-Large Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen JoAnne Hoyak Ken Malcolm Carol Pelton Peggy Prendergast Doreen Sage Ray Sitter Beth Smith Wally Stoyko John Sushelnitsky

HAVE YOU MOVED OR CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS?

Art Direction & Layout: Gayl Punzalan Managing Partner & Creative Director Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca

Please send your hard copy ad and cheque payable to RTAM. Mail to Doreen Sage, Editor. Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0.

Note: The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba does not endorse or promote any products, services or events presented in paid advertisements, the Announcements or Volunteer Opportunities sections, unless specified. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

Contact TRAF at 204-949-0048 or toll free at 1-800-782-0714 or mail to Room 330, Johnston Terminal, 25 Forks Market Road, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4S8.

RTAM can not change your address.

FREE PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Not-for-profit organizations who wish to place public service announcements, volunteer opportunities with service groups, school or teacher reunions are encouraged to do so. Submissions are printed free of charge.

THANKS FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

We would like to thank all those who contributed material for KIT. When sending in files please use Word, black ink only and no formatting. Please keep writing. Photos: 1500 pixels or professionally developed.

2 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

Images are licensed from fotolia.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2015 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

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Table of Contents Life Members.............................................................................. 4 In Memoriam............................................................................... 4 President’s Message................................................................... 5 Marvin Krawec Takes the Helm of RTAM................................. 6 The 2015-2016 Acer-Cart Executive........................................ 9 2015-2016 RTAM Committees.................................................... 9 RTAM Benefits Update September 2015.................................. 10 Get Better Together................................................................... 29 Snowbirds.................................................................28 Valentine Smyth........................................................29 RTAM – Calgary and Area Chapter............................30 RWTA Making a Difference .....................................31 Southwest Assiniboine Retired Teachers’ Tour-2015...................................32 Retired Women Teachers’ Association.......................33

Dr. Louisa Loeb: Permit Teachers Of Manitoba 11th Annual Reunion.............................................34 Class of 56 - 57, MPNS, 58th Reunion.......................35 Our University Of Winnipeg 55+ Program Is Just Right For You...............................................36 Letter to the Editor....................................................37 CLASSIFIEDS..............................................................39

PRE- Election Booklet

Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités The Canadian Association of Retired Teachers www.acer-cart.org

Pages 13-28 Detachable for your use

SENIORS' ISSUES FOR THE 2015 FEDERAL ELECTION

CORRECTION: Snowbirds: Form to fill out is #8840, also referred to as the Closer Connection Form, not #1840 as printed in the summer issue of KIT, page 27.

RTAM.MB.CA PREPARED BY BCRTA

ENDORSED BY

n 3

Life Members June, 2015

July, 2015

Thomas J. Irwin, Petersfield Sr. Marie T. Legault, Winnipeg Barbara E. McKenzie, Winnipeg Edna Siemens, Winnipeg Joyce I. Williams, Winnipeg Myrtle Wilson, Kelowna, BC

Celeste Bent, Winnipeg Alice B. Laing, Steinbach August, 2015

Irene Sehon, Winnipeg Annette St. Pierre, Winnipeg Stanley Swiderski, Winnipeg

In Memoriam April, 2015

June, 2015

Ettie Ackman, Winnipeg J. A. Bertrand Delaquis, Winnipeg M.A. Russel Denton, Winnipeg Eleanor M. Ingalls, Oakville, ON Elizabeth Irwin, Winnipeg Paul Kereliuk, Winnipeg Donna P. Manahan, Winnipeg Ida Irene Murdoch, Winnipeg Ernest Pankratz, Winnipeg Ida J. Patterson, Edena, MB Asa Lillian Reid, Portage la Prairie Dorothy J. Spalding, Whitehorse Eric D. Taylor, London, ON

William D. Chapman, St. Claude Tina Dyck, Winnipeg Thomas J. Irwin, Petersfield Edith M. Kittle, Eriksdale Constance Lee Lyman, Grandview Evangeline Mundell, Brandon David Allan Osborne, Winnipeg Phyllis A. Popham, Duncan, BC M. Jean Robinson, Winnipeg Valentine Louise Smyth, Winnipeg Elizabeth Sneesby, Neepawa Mary E. Toombs, Winnipeg John Richard Topping, Camp Morton

May, 2015

July, 2015

Marion R. Bachman, Victoria, BC Douglas E. Bridge, Winnipeg Gerald M. Curle, Carberry Aline M. E. Duval, Winnipeg Betty E. Helgason, Ashern Marjorie Hindley, Bridgewater, NS Helen Johnson, Watrous, SK Eleanor H.A. Kowalewich, Winnipeg Rowena Margaret Lawrence, Winnipeg Frank McKinnon, Calgary, AB Elisabeth Nash, Winnipeg Hardy J. Penner, Winnipeg Guenter Poschadel, Winnipeg Waldemar Rempel, Steinbach Herbert M. Spencer, Winnipeg Walter Donald Suderman, Sooke, BC Michael Wolfgang Witt, Winnipeg H. Marlene Websdale, Winnipeg

Raymond Bailey, Winnipeg Ernest Donald Boguski, Roblin Elizabeth A. Caldwell, Winnipeg Beverly Anne Dalman, Winnipeg Thomas A. Edwards, Neepawa Isabel M. Jeffery, Winnipeg Albert G. Labun, Winnipeg Margaret Lafrenier, Cartier Janis Lamb, Winnipeg Paul Andrew Laval, Souris David Dianan Maharaj, Winnipeg Barbara Ann Rhind-Harrison, Portage la Prairie Mohindar Singh, Winnipeg Robert E. Still, Winnipeg Jean S. Williamson, Winnipeg Leslie B. Wrightson, Parksville, BC

4 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

President’s Message

At Your Service

W Marvin Krawec RTAM President 2015-2016 RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

elcome back. I trust that everyone has had an enjoyable and restful summer, whether it was at a cottage or in your travels. However, all that seems to come to an end come September.

I should like to welcome the new retirees who have become members of RTAM. I invite those of you, who are not members of RTAM, to become members.

The RTAM Board is getting organized for its first meeting. Most committee chairs have been appointed and committees have been established.

To get all the Board members on the same page, a decision was made that perhaps it would be a good idea if the members met to re-acquaint themselves with governance and to do some strategic planning for the year. Priorities need to be set. Ways to deal with those priorities need to be established. A timetable needs to be set for the achievement of those priorities.

Good planning is the essence of good governance. That is what we shall attempt to do. We have arranged for a day and a half workshop to deal with those eventualities.

In this issue of KIT, you will find articles relevant to your interest and concern. I invite you to peruse them carefully. Common cause issues for retired teachers are much alike across the country. It's not only with retired teachers, but other retirees as well.

You may want to quiz those

running for federal office, should they appear at your door.

RTAM office is in transition. Our administrative assistant, Carol Gillis has decided to take leave; not of her senses, but of her job, after a long and distinguished career.

There are no words to describe her invaluable contribution to the running of the RTAM office. She has made all of us look good at our jobs.

It would take reams to delineate all that she has been responsible for. We wish her well in her retirement. She will certainly be missed.

Carol Gillis is retiring at the end of December and a search committee has been struck to find a replacement for her.

While all this is happening, an adhoc committee has been appointed to hire an executive director for RTAM. RTAM has some 9000+ members and is growing. The demands of the office are steadily increasing. The hours that the office will remain open will extend to 3 o'clock. Board members are all volunteers. Therefore, it is inconceivable that more demands be put on their time.

I should like to reiterate that KIT is your magazine. We invite you to let us know how RTAM could serve you better. Is there anything specific that you would like any of the committees to explore?

The Board members are cognizant of the mission statement that reads, “ . . . to advocate for and to serve and advocate for all retired teachers." §

RTAM.MB.CA

n 5

Marvin Krawec Takes the Helm of RTAM Summary by John Sushelnitsky

(This is a summary of an article written by Johnna Ruocco and printed in The Graphic newspaper of Portage la Prairie on July 21, 2015.) arvin states that he really got involved with RTAM when changes were being made to the teachers' pension plan with Bill 45. After serving the organization at several levels, he accepted the challenge of being its president.

“It's very humbling, considering that the whole responsibility rests on you and you're the general leading the troops, and everybody's going to look

M

towards you to see what actions you take or what you propose, along with other Board members, but everything really, the buck stops with the president.”

RTAM's job is to serve and advocate for retired teachers and to promote their economic interests and ensure their social well-being is protected and enhanced all the time. He said that there are more than 13,000 retired teachers in Manitoba and 82% volunteer an average of 42 hours a month. This has “an incredible economic impact on the province, and nation-wide provides about $51 billion to the Canadian economy, accord-

ing to a TD Bank study two years ago.”

As well, Marvin emphasized the ongoing effort to mend relations with the Manitoba Teachers' Society, “ . . . we've been meeting and talking, coming to some understanding that we're here together.” He added that RTAM is reaching out to other retirees “because there's a common cause there with certain issues.”

This is the first time that a Portager has been named the president of the Retired Teachers' Association of Manitoba. §

STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR ALMA MATER!

THE EDUCATION ALUMNI ASSOCIATION (EAA)

Education Alumni Association

HOMECOMING 2015 — JOIN US! Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2015 Time: 7 p.m.

Location: 224 Education Building Speaker Session: Moving forward: Embedding Indigenous knowledge and Aboriginal history into the work we do Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, Vice-Provost (Aboriginal Initiatives), Lakehead University To register: https://wwwapps.cc.umanitoba.ca/alumni/forms/ Coming up: October 24, 2015: Education Alumni Family Day For info and updates visit: UMANITOBA.CA/EDUCATION

6 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

Reprinted as received from ACER-CART Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités The Canadian Association of Retired Teachers

The Newsletter of ACER-CART Summer 2015

Editor: Norbert Boudreau

MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT JOANN LAUBER: As this new year begins for ACER-CART, we approach it with heightened anticipation of our engagement in a few short months in a civic event of huge import: the coming federal election. In the past year we have been working to enable our members to be fully and meaningfully involved in communication with each political party and its candidates. We must be mindful as well of our role as older citizens in a democracy. As retired people, elders embodying wisdom, the fruits of experience, and vision born of a full life in our blessed country, we want to be examples for other sections of society of the good citizen.

It is not a role new to us retired educators. In our earlier years, we dedicated our energy, thought, and creativity to support and nourish society and to improve the quality of life for each and every one of our students, future Canadians. As educators we sought to foster harmony in a society where each person has equal access to happiness and security. Our professional goals were to nurture, to bring orderliness to society by being orderly and intelligent and exemplary in our own lives and in our profession.

It is important that those same goals continue to guide us and that the reserves of experience and wisdom accumulated in the course of our entire lives be not lost. We have a role of responsibility as stewards of our nation, to strive for and to preserve what is right and good, lasting and of value, for those in our care.

To fulfill that role, we must continue to engage in activism so that we leave for generations to come a Canada of equal access to health care, of financial independence and security for all, in a society of active participation, social justice and supportive, care-giving environments.

RTAM.MB.CA

n 7

politics, including descriptions http://politwitter.ca/page/canadian-politics-hash-tags.

If interested, join me at my twitter id @nobato and I will try to help you along.

Peggy Taillon, visiting speaker at our AGM, said to us: Everyone has a duty to be a responsible citizen. Being a responsible citizen results in a happy and harmonious community – if everyone else&does the same. In fact, to be truly responsible citizens, we sometimes must Health Services Insurance: go out of our way to do things which Canada; help our society – give a little of and our time and effort for the Health care trends across commonly used drugs paramedical services; greater good. and information on initiatives to stay healthy.

We must, as individuals, as retired teachers, ask ourselves what we are doing to help preserve Legislation: the great principles on which our communities, this nation and ourdealing freedoms based.

The Legislation Committee recommended that Articles withare member

associations, signing officers, the termination of mandate of officers and ballot One thing proceedings we each could is to encourage and make it possible for our fellow Canadians to bedo amended. vote. Elections Canada states, “For older or retired citizens, voting remains one of relatively few means expressingIncome: their political will.” In addition, the “act of voting is socially validating Pension & of Retirement and fostersThe a sense of social inclusionplans and dignity.”

We want that sense of empowerment to three types of pension were defined and explained: be experienced only by our fellow older Canadians but by all other generations who are • not Defined Benefit Pension Plan permitted to engage in this privilege of having their voices heard and contributing to a Canada • Defined Contribution Plan imbued with the values we are proud of.

• Target Benefit Pension Plan

We may be inclined to think that with the huge scale of society and the enormous size of The Committee only supports the Defined Benefit Pension Plan government we, as individual citizens, can accomplish little or nothing. However, we can do something in the coming civic opportunity, each in our own way, to achieve the kind of society Political Advocacy: we want – one in which government is “caring, consultative and committed” to building a Under the direction of the 2014 AGM the Political Advocacy Committee undertook to country characterized by freedom, justice, concern and respect for all. In the words of Mother meet its mandate to focus on the 2015 federal election by designing and writing an Teresa, the great humanitarian, "We ourselves [may] feel that what we are doing is just a drop advocacy pamphlet and accompanying support documents. The theme of this in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop." pamphlet is WORKING TO ACHIEVE A CARING, CONSULTATIVE AND COMMITTED CANADIAN PARLIAMENT. Both the Communications and the Become informed. Initiate the conversation. Vote.

Pensions Committees were involved.

2015 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: Wayne Hughes, the new chair of Political Advocacy, speaks in July 2015: Our AGM in June reaffirmed the need to “engage Members and their membership in the political process”. In addition, our new brochure states “ACER-CART wants to ensure that each political party and its candidates are fully engaged in communications with seniors”. AGM members were both excited and impressed with the work done by BCRTA entitled “BCRTA Seniors’ Issues for the 2015 Federal Election”. Consequently, our President has met with BCRTA and asked for permission to use and share their well-researched and thoughtful document with ACER-CART members across Canada. At this stage we are simply asking that you “STAY TUNED” and watch for the final product and start to make plans for circulation to retired teachers across Canada. Some provincial associations are planning a center fold pull out in their fall newsletter as the most cost effective way to circulate these ideas to their membership.

Vaughn Wadelius remains on the executive as a special advisor: At the request of President JoAnn Lauber and the 2015-2016 executive, Vaughn Wadelius, from TheMeeting Pas, Manitoba, member ACER-CART The 24th Annual General (AGM) oflong-time ACER-CART wasofheld on Friday June 5 and Saturday, June 6, 2014 “to in the of the capacity”.

Canadian Vaughn Teachers’ Federation (CTF). has graciously accepted helpOttawa out in office an advisory has served the association as Webmaster and as President.

8 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

The 2015-2016 Acer-Cart Executive

THE 2015-2016 ACER-CART EXECUTIVE:

President: JoAnn Lauber (BCRTA) New Westminster, BC Vice-President: Brian Kenny (RTO/ERO) Burlington, ON Chair: Health Services and Insurance Past President: Dr. Thomas Gaskell (RTO-NSTU) Little Bras d’Or, NS Chair: Nominations and Elections Regional Representatives, East: Dr. James MacAuley (PEIRTA) St. Peter’s Bay, PE Chair: Pension and Retirement Income Regional Representatives, Ontario: Norbert Boudreau (RTO/ERO) Nepean, ON Chair: Communications Regional Representatives, West: Wayne Hughes (RTAM) Winnipeg, MB Chair: Political Advocacy Executive Director: Roger Régimbal, Gloucester, ON Special Advisor: Vaughn Wadelius, The Pas, MB

2015-2016 RTAM Committees

er (BCRTA) New Westminster, BC t: (RTO/ERO) Burlington, ONRosalie Chair: ACER-CART : Delegate: Bornn,Health DauphinServices and Insurance Educational Advocacy: Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Winnipeg t: Observer: Marvin Krawec, Portage la Prairie Gaskell (RTO-NSTU) Little Bras d’Or, NS Chair: Nominations and Elections Members: Connie Newman, Winnipeg; Lorraine Forrest, resentatives, East: AGM & Elections – Wayne Hughes, Chair, Winnipeg Winnipeg; Wally Stoyko, Winnipeg; Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin acAuley (PEIRTA) St. Peter’s Bay, PE Chair: Pension and Retirement Income resentatives, Ontario: Benefits – Judy Olmstead, Chair, Brandon Membership/Chapters: Beth Smith, Chair, Dauphin dreau (RTO/ERO) Nepean, ON Chair: Communications Members: Brian Paterson, Brandon; Doreen Sage, Neepawa; Members: Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin; Joan Dawson, Thompson; resentatives, West: Wayne Hughes, Winnipeg

Bylaws & Policy – Joan Dawson, Chair, Thompson Members: Ray Sitter, Brandon; Ralph Cibula, Gladstone Communications: Jack Fraser, Chair 1. Keep In Touch (KIT) – Doreen Sage, Chair, Neepawa Members: Beth Smith, Dauphin; Joan Dawson, Thompson; Rosalie Bornn, Dauphin; Joan Goble, Thompson; Vaughn Wadelius, The Pas; William Taylor, Brandon 2. Public Relations – Co-Chairs: Guy Hansen, Winnipeg; John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie Members: Ralph Cibula, Gladstone; Pat Bowslaugh, Brandon; Bill Cann, Winnipeg; Karen Boughton, Winnipeg

Ray Sitter, Brandon; Pat Bowslaugh, Brandon; John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie Pension: Chair TBD

Political Advocacy: Co-Chairs: Ralph Cibula, Gladstone; John Sushelnitsky, Portage la Prairie Members: JoAnne Hoyak, MacGregor; Julian Hoyak, MacGregor; Pat Bowslaugh, Brandon; Conrad Artibise, Winnipeg; Ken Malcolm, Dauphin; Guy Hansen, Winnipeg Travel: Carol Pelton, Chair, Winnipeg Member: Sharon Pekrul, Winnipeg Wellness: Peggy Prendergast, Chair, Winnipeg Members: Denise Payment, Oakville; Maureen Recksiedler, Stonewall; Lydia Heshka, Winnipeg; Joan Dawson, Thompson; Bea Shantz, Winnipeg; Judy Olmstead, Brandon

3. RTAM Website – Jack Fraser, Chair, Winnipeg Members: Carol Pelton, Winnipeg; Ralph Cibula, Gladstone RTAM.MB.CA

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM Benefits Update September 2015

T

he following information is being provided to RTAM members who are currently covered by RTAM’s benefit plans as well as those who may be considering enrolling in the plans: A. MEDOC Travel Renewal B. Other RTAM Benefits C. Tips on Travel Claims D. Member Feedback E. Seniors Care Landscape in Canada

A. MEDOC TRAVEL INSURANCE RENEWS ON SEPTEMBER 1

RTAM members who have selected the MEDOC Travel insurance plan have been notified of the annual renewal effective September 1, 2015. The coverage remains the same with changes in policy wording for clarification. The adoption in 2015 of a revised rating model resulted in a rate reduction of 2%. All MEDOC groups receive rate protection from the entire rating pool.

10 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

B. OTHER RTAM INSURANCE BENEFITS RENEW ON APRIL 1

As mentioned in the spring issue of KIT, most of the RTAM benefits renew each year on April 1.

As an eligible RTAM member you can select any of the following benefits individually, depending on your coverage needs: • Travel −− Premier Travel – Base Plan – Multiple trips up to 62 days per trip −− MEDOC Travel – Base Plan – Multiple Trips up to 17 or 35 days per trip −− Supplementary Plans – Single Trips up to 212 Days −− Trip Cancellation – Included in Travel (plus extra stand-alone option) • Extended Health Care Plan with Eldercare −− Core – 80% Drug coverage up to $500 per person per year. −− Enhanced – 100% Drug coverage up to Pharmacare Deductible

can be used as proof of location or your itinerary, if needed.

No one wants to have to deal with a claims issue while they are away. But with a little planning, you can reduce your chances of having a claim and better protect yourself if you do. Effectively preparing for a claim starts well before your departure.

5. Keep your travelling companion in the know.

Exchange key information with your travel companion. This includes emergency contacts, insurance information, prescriptions, allergies and medical history. This will free you to focus on your situation while making sure that your loved ones and insurance company are contacted without delay.

Here are Johnson’s top 7 claims tips: 1. Take care of yourself, so you don’t get sick.

Did you know that colds, flus, sore throats and stomach illnesses are some of the most common claims? Burning yourself out preparing for the trip is a surefire way to get sick during it. Plan, pack and make your travel arrangements well ahead so you can make sure you are ready to go.

6. Plug in your information.

Add your insurance information and your emergency contact to your cell phone or tablet. If your device is password protected (and it should be), you can add your emergency contact information to the background of your phone’s log-in screen.

That way someone won’t have to know the password to find this critical information.

2. Do a medication check.

Check all your prescriptions. Do you have enough for the time you are away? And while you’re at it, have any prescriptions changed in any way since you last filled out a Medical Questionnaire for travel insurance? Even in cases of reduced medication, your travel insurance coverage can be affected. Report any changes to your medication or any changes in your health to your insurance advisor or insurance company, even if you have already purchased travel insurance. Be sure to travel with your medication in your carry-on luggage.

7. Change of Plans? Call your insurance advisor.

Whether you’ve missed your cruise ship departure and decide to stay in Florida, or you decide to extend your trip, it is important that you have accurate coverage for the full duration of their travels. Many insurers won’t extend coverage if there has been any lapse. Whenever plans change, always ask yourself, “Am I still covered?”.

C. TOP 7 TRAVEL INSURANCE CLAIMS TIPS

3. Take your wallet card.

You should always travel with the wallet card provided with your policy, where you can find the phone number to call in case of an emergency as well as your policy number. Travel with all your emergency contact details and your wallet card on you or in your carry-on luggage.

4. Keep all your receipts.

For both medical and non-medical claims it is important to keep receipts to support the claim and to ensure you receive an accurate reimbursement. Even something as simple as a coffee receipt

D. MEMBER FEEDBACK

Member feedback is always welcome as it is important to ensure the benefit plans are meeting the evolving insurance needs of the majority of RTAM members. Feedback could be a response to formal surveys or questions to RTAM or the plan administrator. The RTAM 2014 Voluntary Benefit Plan Member Survey was instrumental in prioritizing future benefit enhancements to the Health Plan, such as hearing aids, vision care, orthotics and private duty nursing.

A most recent survey has been conducted to help assess member interest in Eldercare coverage, a current pilot project sponsored by Johnson for members of the Health Plan. The Plan assists members and their extended families in managing long term care needs by providing access to a RTAM.MB.CA

n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

• Dental Care Note: Other benefits such as home, life and long term care insurance have individual renewal terms that vary with the type of coverage.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

dedicated Care Specialist (a Registered Nurse) who will provide you with expert advice, guidance and support for your unique situation. This may include providing information and assistance navigating the complex healthcare system wherever you live in Canada. Results will be communicated in the next issue of KIT. E. SENIORS CARE LANDSCAPE IN CANADA

Seniors can face unique challenges due to the organization and funding of seniors care in Canada. Navigating the system to find appropriate care and available services requires education and awareness. The scope of services, challenges, and possible solutions has been studied and presented by the Conference Board of Canada in the April 2015 report: Understanding Health and Social Services for Seniors in Canada.

The scope of care for seniors depends on where you live in Canada. This is mainly because only primary and acute care settings are covered by the Canada Health Act (CHA) and funded by provincial tax revenues as well as Federal Health Transfers to the provinces. Delivery of senior care in the Home or in Long Term Care (LTC) facilities are not addressed by the CHA. Wait times to access LTC facilities are estimated to range from one month to a year depending on the province of residence and the region within a province. Many seniors in Manitoba have access to partially provincially funded LTC, Home Care, palliative care, Pharmacare and vision care, depending on their income level, their awareness of local available options, or the complex registration process for those services. For those who do not qualify for publicly-funded services, private savings and insurance protection are optional sources of funding.

The challenges to Senior Care in Canada include meeting the increasing needs of an aging population with limited budgets and lack of long term funding strategies. It is estimated that the senior population will double to 10 million in 2036 from 5 million in 2011. Chronic conditions

12 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

such as high blood pressure, arthritis, and diabetes tend to increase with age and may require complex treatment, especially when more than one condition is present. Dementia is an increasing condition that requires institutional care for more advanced cases. The Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association estimates that over the next 35 years, the cost of providing long term care is double the current level of government funding, which would mean an unfunded liability of $590 billion.

Investing in solutions now will have long term benefits to providing efficient senior care services.

There are many innovative solutions being tested in Canada and globally to improve the quality of care for seniors. Shifting the care setting between home, LTC facilities and hospitals can be cost effective if needed services are provided in a timely manner. Other care solutions include rapid response teams, more assisted living options and multidisciplinary primary care. Funding solutions for LTC include the creation of a new registered savings plan (similar to a RESP), subsidized LTC insurance and tax-sheltered savings (such as an enhanced pension plan).

The report concludes with an appeal to all stakeholders to address the complex issues around seniors’ health and health care services: federal, provincial, and territorial governments as well as key health care providers and communities.

Community is perhaps the most critical focus: “Keeping seniors socially connected is an integral part of healthy aging. Social support helps to slow cognitive decline, the onset of dementia, and the progression of physical disabilities."

For further questions and detailed plan information, please call our RTAM office at 204-8893660, or RTAM’s Plan Administrator Johnson Inc. toll-free at 1-877-989-2600, or visit the website www.johnson.ca.rtam and click on Frequently Asked Questions (Plan FAQ or Claim Submission FAQ). §

Each time I attend an Annual General Meeting for our national organization (ACER-CART), I am struck by how similar the concerns of retired teachers are from Newfoundland to British Columbia. The same issues are repeated and expanded by each province, with themes that are important to retired teachers, as well as all seniors.

At our most recent AGM, I was very impressed with the work presented by BC Retired Teachers’ Association (BCRTA). Not only did it summarize the many areas of concern, but it also provided facts and figures to support the concerns, as well as provide questions to ask federal politicians and parties when they are soliciting our vote for the October election. When BCRTA indicated their willingness to

share their work with retired teachers across Canada, I became very excited and see this document as a possible way to effect real change and open dialogue on issues that are important to all seniors across Canada.

Please take time to thoroughly read the following 16 pages. Pick the issues that are important to you and ask all the political parties their position. Your interest and advocacy may make a real difference for seniors across our great nation.

Wayne A. Hughes Western Regional Representative for ACER-CART

Association canadienne des enseignantes et des enseignants retraités The Canadian Association of Retired Teachers www.acer-cart.org

SENIORS' ISSUES FOR THE 2015 FEDERAL ELECTION The federal election affects us as senior citizens as well as retired teachers. What the politicians perceive when they look at us as a block of voters is critical. If we are perceived as a dwindling, impotent array of elders who are not to be a serious factor in the outcome of the election then we will suffer the neglect that they will think we deserve. On the other hand, if we are perceived as an active, intelligent body of voters who care about what is in their political platforms the politicians will make an effort to face the issues that are important to us.

Our national organization of retired teachers, ACER-CART, has given us a tool to work with in dealing with all the political parties. That tool is a well researched series of questions based on statistics and studies that we can pose to all politicians who come PREPARED BY BCRTA

to our door. It is not slanted to favour one party or another, but it is a tool to help us affect the outcome of the election. It is a tool that brings us credit as a participating body that demands to be heard and respected.

We have devoted so much of this KIT to the ACER-CART document because as Board members we believe it is an affirmative way to advocate for the best possible result for all seniors, including retired teachers. RTAM encourages you to pose these questions to the politicians at your door, at town hall meetings or wherever and whenever you have the opportunity.

Pre-election booklet is also on our website: rtam.mb.ca John Sushelnitsky ENDORSED BY

SENIORS' ISSUES FOR THE 2015 FEDERAL ELECTION 2 SENIO R S ’ I S S U E S I N F O RM AT IO N FO R TH E 2 0 1 5 F E D E R A L E L E C T IO N 3

D EMENTIA A N D CO GN I T I V E I M PA I R M E N TS 4 5

P OVE RT Y A M O N G S E N IO R S 6

7 9

SE N IO R S ' H O U S I N G

H EA LT H ACCO RD F U N DI N G

NATIO NA L P H A RM AC A R E P RO GR A M M E

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END OF LIFE CARE

SUSTA I N A BI L I T Y O F M E DIC A RE

S S U E S I N F O R M AT I I ’ S R O IO SEN HE 2015 FEDERAL ELEC N T T IO N FOR

2015 is a federal election year.

ACER-CART would like to thank BCRTA for its outstanding work in preparing this booklet and sharing it with retired teachers across Canada.

The BCRTA, guided by its constitutional responsibility to provide information to its members on matters of importance to their well-being, has prepared this package of information on a variety of issues that may, and perhaps should, come to the fore during the lead up to the election.

ACER-CART wants to ensure that each political party and its candidates are fully engaged in communication with seniors. ACER-CART is committed to providing appropriate support to its member associations and their retired teachers to engage the candidates and their political parties.

Hopefully, you will use this information to visit the nominated candidates of each political party in your riding and focus their attention on the critical issues facing seniors now and in the future. The questions could also be used at all candidates’ meetings.

Each issue has facts and questions to help you prepare for your visit. You may select only one or two issues important to you to talk about with the candidate.

Use the same issue(s) for the candidate of each political party so you can compare responses.

Unless the next federal government is prepared to show leadership in these areas, an increasing number of retirees will experience a crisis for which they are ill prepared.

The next elected Government of Canada must be committed to providing leadership and support to the provinces and territories so that Canada can realize a truly national approach to addressing the realities of seniors throughout the country.

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DEMENTIA AND COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENTS ISSUE The impact of caring for individuals with Dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment has an enormous economic and social impact on Canadians.

FACTS 1. In 2011, 14.9% of Canadians 65 years and older had dementia. By 2031, if nothing changes the number could be 1.4 million. Today’s costs for dealing with dementia are approximately $33 billion. By 2040, the cost could escalate to $293 billion.

2. One in five Canadians over 45 provides some form of care for a senior with long-term health problems. 1/4 of these Canadians are seniors.

1/3 of this number are 75 years and older.

3. The cost of looking after these individuals amounts to a loss of $11 billion to the economy and a loss of 227,760 full-time equivalent employees.

4. By 2040, family caregivers will provide 1.2 billion unpaid hours annually. The impact on family caregivers is often depression and other psychological issues.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If elected, will you and your party address the escalating costs of caring for Canadians with dementia?

3. If elected, will you and your party provide tax credits for caregivers who have had to take leave from work or reduced their work hours?

2. If elected, will you and your party provide adequate care facilities and caregivers for individuals with dementia and other cognitive problems?

4. If elected, will you and your party work with the provinces to provide adequate care for Canadians with dementia?

REFERENCES “A New Way of looking at the impact of dementia in Canada”. Alzheimer Society 2012 “Baby Boomer Survey Alzheimer’s disease...it’s more than you think”. (2010) Alzheimer Society of Canada “Eldercare: What We Know Today.” (2008) Statistics Canada “World Alzheimer Report 2012. A public priority (2012) World Health Organization.” (WHO) Alzheimer Canada

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G E R I AT R IC I A N S

ISSUE There is a shortage of geriatricians in Canada. Geriatricans are specialists in the health and care of older people.

FACTS 1. In 2012, Canada had 233 certified specialists in geriatrics. Our population was 32 million. At the same time Sweden had a population of 9 million with 500 geriatricians.

2. The lack of geriatricians puts a strain on the medical system as seniors are often admitted to a hospital acute bed with health complications that could have been monitored if there had been some community care system in place.

A community health system would have been able to address multiple health concerns.

3. Canadian medical students are not encouraged to choose geriatrics as a specialty. The field requires additional training and remuneration has a lower monetary average than other specialty fields.

4. Geriatrics as a field of study does not seem to have academic status.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, will you and your party encourage and support federal leadership that would develop a common provincial vision and strategy for the delivery of geriatric services and provide more specialty spaces for geriatricians?

There is much to be done. “Vision and action are required,” says Dr. Heckman, School of Public Health and Health system at Waterloo, “ if Canada is to prepare the health care system for the escalating needs of seniors. “

REFERENCES Hogan, David B. et. al. “Specialist Physicians in Geriatrics – Report of the Canadian Geriatrics Society Physician Resource Work Group” Canadian Geriatrics Journal, Vol. 15, Issue 3 Sept. 2012 68-79.

Anderson, Scott, University of Toronto Magazine. Summer 2009, “Shortage of Specialists to care for Canada’s Seniors”.

Special Senate Committee on Aging Final Report “ Canada’s Aging Population: Seizing the Opportunity” The Honourable Sharon Carstairs, P.C. Chair The Honourable Wilbert Joseph Keon, Deputy Chair April 2009

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POVERTY AMONG SENIORS

ISSUE Poverty among Canadian seniors is increasing.

FACTS 1. According to Statistics Canada, the rate of poverty among the elderly in Canada is on the rise. Between 1976 and 1995 poverty among elderly Canadians fell 25 percentage points from 36.9% to 3.9%. By 2010, the rate had risen to 12.3%. The largest increase occurred in elderly persons living alone. Between 2006 and 2010 there were more than 160 000 existing on low income. Almost 60% of these individuals were women.

2. The rate of income increase between lowincome non -seniors and seniors is not equal.

3. The low-income cut off (ILCO) measure has helped reduce the number of elderly persons in the low- income category.

4. Canada has increased the age for accessing OAS to 67.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, will you and your party ensure that poverty among seniors is eliminated?

REFERENCES Statistics Canada Conference Board of Canada

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SENIORS’ HOUSING ISSUE Seniors want to remain in their homes and communities for as long as possible.

FACTS 1. 25% of seniors live below the poverty line and struggle to survive.

5. Inadequate housing, at times, forces couples to live apart.

2. Most seniors have fixed incomes and as costs rise they are in danger of being on the verge of homelessness or forced to live in inadequate housing.

6. The shortage of adequate senior intermediate and long-term care facilities results in seniors using hospital acute beds which are focused on seniors’ issues such as maintaining mobility.

3. Access to services, such as adapted day centres and activity centres promote remaining in their homes.

7. The cost of an acute bed is approximately $1000 per day. The cost of an intermediate or longterm facility bed is about $300 per day.

4. Retrofitting homes with ramps, wider hallways and access to bathrooms promote remaining in their homes.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If elected, will you and your party work towards ensuring that every Canadian has access to secure, adequate, accessible and affordable housing?

4. If elected, will you and your party provide more intermediate and long-term housing which will address the multidisciplinary needs of seniors?

2. If elected, will you and your party support and fund a national housing strategy that will ensure affordable and adequate housing for Canadian seniors?

5. If elected, will you and your party strive to promote healthy living opportunities that enable Canadian seniors to age with dignity?

3. If elected, will you and your party reinstate the 1993 federal programme to build affordable housing?

REFERENCES National Advisory Council on Aging www.chf.bc.ca/pdf/s95-keyfacts-subsidy%20crisis.pdf

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H E A LT H ACCO R D F U N DI N G

ISSUE The Canada Health Accord expired on March 31, 2014.

FACTS 1. In 2004 the Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments agreed on a ten-year programme of objectives and funding for health care across Canada. This programme was called the Health Accord.

In the Accord, the Prime Minister and Premiers recommitted to the Canada Health Act and its five requirements: public administration, universal access, comprehensive coverage, accessibility without extra charges or discrimination, and portability across the provinces. The Health Accord also aligned the Federal, Provincial and Territorial governments with shared goals regarding wait times, home care, prescription drugs and team based care.

2. In 2012, the Federal government announced that no talks would be scheduled with the Premiers before 2014 to renew the Health Accord. Provincial and Territorial leaders were not consulted about this decision. A coalition of several organizations including the BCRTA petitioned Federal, Provincial and Territorial elected representatives to initiate talks aimed at renewing and improving the Health Accord. The Federal government refused, no talks occurred and the Health Accord expired on March 31, 2014.

3. The Federal government provided 50 percent of provincial health care funding when Medicare was first introduced. Funding was unstable. In 1998, for example Federal funding dipped to only 10 per cent. In 2004, the Prime Minister and the Premiers agreed that during each year of the Health Accord, the Federal government would provide 6 per cent increased funding. Stable funding raised the Federal share to 20 per cent per year between 2004 and 2014. However, the Federal government claimed in 2012 that yearly increase of 6 per cent were unsustainable under current priorities.

4. In 2012, the Federal government unilaterally announced plans to cut at least $36 billion in health care funding to the provinces in the ten years following the Health Accord in 2014. Over time the Federal government’s share of health care spending will decrease to 18.6 per cent by 2024, a far cry from its original 50 per cent contribution. In place of 6 per cent yearly increases, health transfer monies will be tied to economic growth with 3 per cent minimum yearly increases. During the Health Accord transfer amounts were a mix of cash and tax points adjusted for each province’s wealth. Post Health Accord transfers will be cash only and based on population, with no Federal commitment to protect provinces that lose funding.

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H E A LT H ACCO R D F U N DI N G

5. The Prime Minister must meet with the Premiers to negotiate a new Health Accord based on the principles of the Canada Health Act. The new Health Accord must set national standards and guidelines for wait times, home care, prescription drugs and team-based primary care. The Parliamentary Budget Officer has shown that Ottawa can increase programme spending and transfers while maintaining fiscal sustainability. Fair tax measures at the Federal level would mean an additional $29 billion in the public treasury. A renewed 10 year Health Accord with at least 6 per cent yearly increases in the health transfer funding will bring the Federal government closer to its original 50 per cent contribution.

6. By contributing at least $36 billion less, the Federal government will have less influence on health care. It will be more difficult for Ottawa to ensure that both the Canada Health Act and the national standards are in place. As they did during health care transfer cutbacks in the 1990’s, Provinces and Territories will cut services and privatize. Public health care will be diminished. Families will experience financial hardship as the costs of drugs and health services rise. Ultimately, Canadians will hold the Federal government accountable for the destruction of Medicare.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If elected, will you and your party ensure that the Prime Minister and the Premiers meet to negotiate a new Health Accord?

2. If elected, will you and your party ensure that the five principles of the Canada Health Act be part of the new Health Accord?

3. If elected, will you and your party ensure that the new Health Accord include national standards for wait times, home care, prescription drugs and team based primary health care?

4. If elected, will you and your party ensure that the Canada Health Transfers will be stable and adequate to maintain the new improved Health Accord?

REFERENCES Parliamentary Budget Officer, Renewing the Canada Health Transfer: Implications for Federal and Provincial-Territorial Fiscal Sustainability (2012), http://www.parl.gc.ca/PBO-DPB/documents/Renewing_CHT.pdf Council of the Federation Working Group on Fiscal Arrangements, Assessment of the Fiscal Impact of the Current Federal Fiscal Proposals (2012) http://www.councilofthefederation.ca/pdfs/CoF%20Working%20Group%20on%20Fiscal%20Arrangements%20 Report%20and%20Appendices_July.pdf CUPE fact sheet No. 1: Protect Medicare: Stable and Sufficient Federal Funding.

Parliamentary Budget Officer, “Fiscal Sustainability Report 2012” (2012), http://www.pbo-dpb.gc.ca/files/files/FSR_2012.pdf Canadian Union of Public Employees, “Changing the Channel on the Economy” (2012) http://www.slideshare.net/cupescfp/ changing-the-channel-of-the-economy Life Before Medicare Canadian Experience

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N AT IO N A L P H A R M AC A R E PROGRAMME ISSUE Pharmaceuticals are the largest cause of health costs in the country. Canada is the only industrialized country in the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) with a Universal Health Care System that does not provide public pharmaceutical coverage for its citizens. Legislation is needed that would guarantee that pharmacare services are available to all Canadians regardless of where they live in Canada.

FACTS We pay 15% to 20% more than the International Average price for new drugs.

1. 10% of Canadians DO NOT FILL their prescriptions because of costs.

2. Brand name drugs are expensive. e.g. Tylenol Extra Strength $16.99 Generic Extra Strength $5.99

3. Canada needs a national strategy to bid for contracts with the drug companies to negotiate better prices.

4. Canada needs to purchase drugs in bulk thus reducing the costs.

5. $7.3 - $11.4 billion would be saved with a National Pharmacare Programme. All Canadians would benefit.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If elected, will you and your party support the creation of a National Pharmacare Programme?

3. If elected, will you and your party support purchasing drugs in bulk?

2. If elected, will you and your party establish a bidding procedure for the purchase of drugs?

REFERENCES Time for a New Prescription: Universal Public Pharmacare is Safe and Affordable. Julie White November 2014, Congress of Union Retirees of Canada Estimated cost of universal public coverage of prescription drugs in Canada Steven Morgan, Michael Law, Jamie R. Daw, Liza Abramham, Danielle Martin NOTE: The federal government is presently negotiating the Canada European Trade Agreement. There are discussions regarding pharmaceuticals including market exclusivity, which has a “no filing” period in which no application of generic drugs can be given regulatory consideration and a two-year period during which generic drugs can progress toward market readiness but not be sold.

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PENSION REFORM ISSUE Many Canadians do not have pension plans that they or their employers contribute to during their years of employment. They often do not have sufficient personal resources for their retirement years and rely on CPP and OAS.

FACTS 1. RRSPs are not the answer RRSP Average holdings for Canadians (for the 58% of Canadians who have RRSPs) Age 35 Age 35 - 45 Age 45 - 54 Age 55 - 64 Age 65 and older

$22,500 $49,100 $90,300 $124 500 $108,200

If only 58% of Canadians have RRSPs that leaves 42% relying only on CPP and personal and other pensions.

An average RRSP of $124,500 for a 55-64 old person will pay a non-indexed annuity of $651/month. Add that to the maximum CPP benefit at age 65 and the person’s annual income is about $20, 000 – barely above the Low Income Cut-off line of $18,421. Even

if Old Age Security (OAS) were added in, the annual income would only be $27,720 less income tax.

Starting in April 2023, the age of eligibility for OAS will gradually increase from 65 to 67.

2. Only 32.5% of the labour force has a registered pension plan.

3. 26% of Canadians believe they are not saving sufficiently to meet future retirement needs and 15% are saving nothing because they do not earn enough to make contributions.

4. Both employees and employers generally pay into pension plans but 75%-80% of the pensions are paid by investment returns. They represent excellent value to both employees and employers and to the taxpayers. Seniors without pension benefits rely almost entirely on taxpayer funded programmes.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If you and your party are elected, will you support Defined Benefits plans and encourage new Defined Benefit plans that are superior and provide more protection to the individual and to future taxpayers?

REFERENCES

2. If you and your party are elected, will you support the improvement of CPP, which is a universal Defined Benefit pension plan, has forced participation and is the most economical choice?

3. If you and your party are elected, will you oppose any future movement away from Defined Benefit plans?

The Wealth of Canadians – Statscan and fairpesnionsforall.net http://www.statcan.gc.ca/tablesaux/um-som/101/cst01/labor26a-eng.htm Angus Reid

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END-OF-LIFE CARE

ISSUE A national, comprehensive palliative care policy/strategy is needed so that all Canadians have access to palliative care services regardless of where they live.

FACTS Fewer than 20% of Canadians who died in 2014 had access to hospice, palliative and end-of-life care services because these services were not available consistently throughout Canada.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: 1. If elected, would you or your party work to reestablish the National Secretariat on Palliative End of Life Care that was abandoned in 2007?

2. If elected, would you and your party ensure that all Canadians have access to appropriate palliative care services?

ISSUE Doctors and nurses need more education and training about palliative care approaches, pain management and advance care directives.

FACTS Systems-wide approaches to hospice, palliative care training and education are needed so that Canadians will receive quality care in all care settings where they die.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, would you or your party provide financial incentives and establish new national programs for the encouragement and development of doctor and nursing programs, and teaching and training facilities for persons who provide palliative care in Canada?

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END-OF-LIFE CARE

ISSUE All Canadians need to be persuaded that end-of-life planning is important for everyone, not just for those diagnosed with life limiting illnesses.

FACTS 86% of Canadians have not heard of advance care planning and less than half have had a discussion with a family member or friend about their healthcare treatments in the event that they became ill and unable to communicate.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, would you or your party provide models and frameworks that will encourage Canadians to discuss and plan for end of life care?

The goal of end of life care is the same regardless of setting: to ensure the best possible quality of life for dying people and their families.

CANADIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION: DEFINITIONS Advance Care Planning: End of life wishes discussion. Treatment goals and preferences. e.g. Written directives or advance care plan.

Palliative Care: Prevention and relief of suffering. Treatment of pain and other physical, psychosocial and spiritual symptoms.

Euthanasia: Explicitly ending another person’s life. An act undertaken with empathy and compassion.

REFERENCES “ Canadian Institute for Health Information, Health Care Use at the End of Life in Western Canada “ https://secure.cihi.ca/free_products/end_of_life_report_aug07_e.pdf “Canadians Want End-of-Life Care Brought Out of the Shadows “(2014) https://www.cma.ca/.../EOL/National-Dialogue-Press-Release.pdf Canadian Medical Association National Ipsos-Reid poll indicates majority of Canadians haven’t talked about their wishes for care (2012) http://www.advancecareplanning.ca/news-room/news-archives/national-ipsos-reid-poll-indicates-majority-of-canadians-haven%E2%80%99t-talked-abouttheir-wishes-for-care.aspx Health Canada’s Chronology of Key National Palliative and End-of-Life Care Developments in Canada (2014) http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hcs-sss/palliat/support-soutien/chronolog-eng.php Kirby Report: The Senate Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology (2002) www.parl.gc.ca/Content/SEN/Committee/372/.../repoct02vol6-e.htm Fact Sheet Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (2012) www.chpca.net/.../fact_sheet_hpc_in_canada_may_2012_final.pdf “CBC: Palliative care motion gets unusual near unanimous support” (May, 2014) http://www.rcinet.ca/en/2014/05/29/palliative-care-motion-gets-unusual-near-unanimous-support-in-canadas-house-of-commons/

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S U S TA I N A BI L I T Y OF MEDICARE ISSUE Medicare is based on the five principles contained in the Canada Health Act: public administration, universal access, comprehensive coverage, accessibility without extra charges or discrimination and portability across the provinces. In the words of Roy Romanow, the issue is, “Medicare is as sustainable as we want it to be”.

FACTS 1. Public Health Care is sustainable.

2. Health costs are being driven up by prescription drug costs, medical imaging and expensive medical technology.

3. Seniors cause an annual 0.8% increase in medical costs. The Canadian population is increasing at an average of 1.1% while Inflation is 2.5%.

4. Canadians have a right to know how our money is being spent so that we can be assured that we are getting value for our money.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, what steps would you and your party take to assure Canadians that Medicare spending will be transparent and cost effective?

ISSUE Tax cuts have impacted public services and Medicare.

FACTS 1. Health costs take an increasing amount of provincial budgets. The reason is not uncontrollable spending. Tax cuts have impacted the maintenance and delivery of government services.

2. Medicare spending continues to take the same share of provincial revenues as it did 35 years ago.

3. Corporate and personal income tax cuts have removed $170.8 billion between 1997 and 2004.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, would you and your party assure that a universal pharmacare programme would become part of the Canada Health Act?

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S U S TA I N A BI L I T Y OF MEDICARE ISSUE Tax cuts have impacted public services and Medicare.

FACTS A universal Pharmacare programme could save $7.3 - $10.7 billion annually and cover all Canadians.

QUESTIONS FOR THE MP CANDIDATE: If elected, will you and your party establish a national pharmaceutical programme?

REFERENCES Time for Transformative Change

Standing Committee on Social Affairs

Life before Medicare Canadian Experiences “Canadian Health Coalition Fact Sheet “ Health Coalition.ca Romanow Report “Estimated cost of universal public coverage of prescription drugs in Canada” Steven G. Morgan, Michael Law, Jamie R. Daw, Liza Abramham, Danielle Martin

NOTES AND QUESTIONS RELATED TO MY CONSTITUENCY:

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Denise Payment, Member of Wellness Committee

“C

hronic disease self-management doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor.”

Amy Yonda, coordinator of Get Better Together Programs in Manitoba has seen what this program can offer to individuals.

Many individuals live with silent or visible chronic issues. This could be depression, anxiety, arthritis, diabetes, movement challenges, colitis, etc. Perhaps it is more prevalent in the retirement years. There are physical, emotional, mental and spiritual challenges.

Get Better Together is a provincial, free program that you may have considered or maybe have not heard of. It is a course from Stanford University Please read the pamphlet included as well as contact numbers in your area. www.sogh.ca/wellness/get-better-together RHA contacts are: • Prairie Mountain Health South : Sydney Bernard, sbernard@pmh-mb.ca , 204-523-3224 • Prairie Mountain Health North: Deb Wilson, dwilson@pmh-mb.ca , 204-937-7522 • Southern Health Santé Sud: Sabrina Turgeon, sturgeon@southernhealth.ca, 204-870-0629 • Interlake Eastern RHA West: Jay Adam, jadam@ierha.ca, 204-886-4316

and has been adapted for Canada. A reference book (Cdn) is given to all participants. The program is offered in various areas in Manitoba as well as online. (courses beginning this fall) The six week course is presented in a group setting, includes goal setting and social support.

The course is peer led by trained individuals and leaders. Being a leader, I can share that GBT is a positive, empowering, experience and I recommend it for anyone wanting to create positive change for themselves. You will discover resources available to you in Manitoba.

Knowledge is power. §

• Interlake Eastern RHA East: Robyn Laurie, rlaurie@ierha.ca, 204-444-6142 • Northern RHA The Pas and Flin Flon: Christa McIntyre, Cmcintyre2@nrha.ca, 204-681-3145 • Churchill: Jason Nault, jnault@wrha-ch.ca, 204-675-8360 Two GBT online programs are running this year: - September 14 – October 29 - February 1 – March 17 Registration is done by visiting www. getbettertogether.ca and clicking on the link to GBT online

Valentine Smyth Val was a director or RTAM 1999 – 2001 and 2010 – 2011.

Valentine Smyth peacefully, after a lengthy battle with cancer, passed away on June 9, 2015 at the Riverview Health Centre.

She began her teaching career in Neepawa, then returned to Winnipeg to teach at Sisler High School. She went back to work with the Winnipeg School Division in 1970, and worked as a guidance counsellor, then as an administrator in several schools until she retired from her position as Principal of Isaac Brock in 1997. § RTAM.MB.CA

n 29

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Get Better Together

CHAPTER REPORTS

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30 n RTAM KIT Fall 2015

RTAM – Calgary and Area Chapter Penny Hogan on behalf of Dennis Kozak, Lillian Kozak and George Takashima

T

he Calgary and Area Chapter is composed of retired Manitoba teachers currently living in Calgary, AB and the area south to Lethbridge and west to Canmore, AB. Some members are new retirees who moved to Calgary quite recently, often to be close to children and grandchildren. Others moved west much earlier in their careers. One member has lived in Calgary since the mid 1980s. Our roots as teachers, counsellors, administrators, and clinicians are in school divisions throughout Manitoba. Of 58 names currently listed on our contact list, a core group of twenty-nine individuals have attended at least one Chapter get together. As a new RTAM chapter, we look forward to welcoming new members!

Twenty people attended an initial breakfast meeting on May 13, 2014. Two important decisions were made. The group decided to meet for luncheons to avoid the reality of early morning traffic in Calgary and we wanted to investigate becoming an official RTAM chapter.

Twelve individuals attended a luncheon on September 11, 2014.

Several of those were new faces. Many individuals sent regrets. It seems retired teachers are a busy bunch! At this meeting, Dennis Kozak presented a draft Constitution for a Calgary and Area Chapter. George Takashima agreed to take on the task of fine tuning the proposed Constitution.

On December 4, 2014, luncheon was attended by nineteen. Food hamper items collected at the luncheon were donated to the Calgary Food Bank. Those in attendance agreed unanimously to forward a signed copy of the “Constitution of the Calgary and Area Chapter Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba Inc (RTAM)” to RTAM. In January, 2015 Dennis Kozak received a letter from RTAM accepting the Calgary and Area Chapter as an official chapter of RTAM. A certificate, signed by Wayne Hughes, RTAM President, and Judy Olmstead, RTAM Secretary, was received. We appreciate the advice and assistance of Wayne Hughes, President, throughout the process of becoming an ‘official’ chapter of RTAM. Thank-you also to RTAM for the financial assistance provided towards developing a new Chapter in Calgary. §

CHAPTER REPORTS

RWTA Making a Difference Heather Emberley, Publicity

“I

t all started with a conversation after one of our lunches,” says Cécile Alarie-Skene, President Elect of the Retired Women Teachers Association of Manitoba. “ A casual comment about what to do with all those little bottles of shampoos, lotions, soaps and samples sparked a volunteer effort to collect toiletries and items requested by women’s shelters.”

Forty-five bags of personal items were recently delivered to Winnipeg women’s shelters, thanks to the Retired Women Teachers’ Association of Manitoba.

Since putting the call out to its membership in 2012, the RWTA has supplied fifteen shelters and drop-in centres with bags and boxes of personal care items and toiletries needed for daily living. Through generous donations from the association items including shampoo, soap, sanitary products, deodorant, dental products, sunscreen, lotion, hair products and new underwear to name but some of the essentials shelters require are distributed to women in need. Items specific to children are also collected.

There is a Bhuddist saying that generosity is the first sign of love. Retired teachers come by that love from years as front line workers and witnesses to the needs of not only families in their schools but on an international scale as well.

In the past four years the RWTA has collected 700 pairs of used eyeglasses for the Lions Eye Bank in Central and South America. “We are told that persons receiving our used glasses are very excited to be able to see clearly for the first time in their lives,” reports Cécile. This is an on-going project and we encourage you to keep looking in your drawers for old glasses. To make arrangements to donate eyeglasses or items for women’s shelters please e-mail caskene@mymts.net Because teachers know so many Winnipeg children come to school hungry, the RWTA collects monetary and food donations at the yearly February luncheon and a special Winnipeg Harvest truck is dispatched to the RWTA. Besides the gala fashion show at the October 1 lunch, the camaraderie and the commitment to

Forty-five bags of personal items were recently delivered to Winnipeg women’s shelters thanks to the Retired Women Teachers' Association of Manitoba

lifelong learning through workshop sponsorship, there are many reasons to join RWTA. For more info contact President, Ruth Hartnell: 204-287-2146/ hartneller@shaw.ca or President Elect, Cecile Alaire-Skene at caskene@mymts.net § THE RETIRED WOMEN TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION (A chapter of the Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba)

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION FOR 2015 - 2016 ❏ RENEWAL ❏ NEW Complete this form and return it with your cheque for $7.00 before October 5, 2015. After this date, notices will be sent and phone calls made only to paid-up members.

Circle one (MISS, MS, OR MRS.)

Last Name First Name E-mail Address Postal Code Phone ❏ Check here if you are aged 90 or over to be eligible for a Free Lifetime Membership (do not send any money).

Make cheque (no post-dated cheques) for $7.00 payable to: Retired Women Teachers’ Association, Cécile AlarieSkene, RWTA Membership Convener, 227 Parkville Bay, Winnipeg MB R2M 2J6. caskene@mymts.net.

Phone 204-256-6176

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Southwest Assiniboine Retired Teachers’ Tour-2015 Text and photos by: Ed Arndt-Virden

Above: Participants 2015, Retired Teachers' Tour, Assiniboine Park Zoo-Winnipeg.

Top-right: Tour organizer Kel Smith with Brandon Bus Lines Driver Doug Thiessen.

Right: Human Rights Museum, Winnipeg (Photo by Patrick Coulee. Courtesy of Ed Arndt.)

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n June 17, 2015, some 41 retired teachers and their guests boarded a Brandon Bus Lines motor coach for another “Discovery Adventure Tour” which has become an annual event for more than a decade. This year we were pleased to have Bruce & Pat MacDonald, former teachers in Virden, now residing in Charleswood, join our tour.

As were all our previous tours, this tour was once again sponsored by the Southwest Assiniboine Chapter of Retired Teachers’ Association and was once again organized and directed by our own very capable fellow retired educator, Kel Smith. Our bus driver on the first leg of our journey from Virden to Winnipeg was none other than the owner/operator of Brandon Bus Lines, Gordon Hrechka. Upon arriving in Brandon he surrendered control of the bus to Doug Thiessen, who was our driver for the rest of the tour.

This year we had two major destinations a bit

further afield than usual, The Canadian Museum for Human Rights located at The Forks in Winnipeg and the Assiniboine Park Zoo. The Canadian Museum for Human rights was opened to the public some months before our visit. This museum is the “first museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration and future of human rights.”

The aim of the museum is “to build not only a national hub for human rights learning and discovery, but a new era of global rights leadership.”

The eight floors were full of much information, many displays and there was just not enough time in the amount of time we had at our disposal to do justice to viewing all the displays and absorbing all the information. I believe it is safe to conclude that many of our group resolved to come back for a more leisurely future visit to this marvelous and captivating museum. This writer was particularly fascinated with the Holocaust Display and spent most of his time on this floor.

Continued on page 33

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers’ Association Ruth Hartnell, RWTA President

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wish to invite all women retired teachers to join our organization. The RWTA has been active for almost 65 years with the objectives of dealing with problems concerning the welfare of our members and providing an opportunity for them to continue social relationships. Our luncheons, held four times a year, are a good means of meeting new friends and reconnecting with our retired colleagues. These luncheons are held at the Masonic Centre, 420 Corydon Avenue (Confusion Corner) Winnipeg. For more information, please contact Cecile Alarie-Skene: 204-256-6176 caskene@mymts.net. Looking forward to seeing you. §

Executive Committee 2015 - 2016

President: Ruth Hartnell Past President: Diane Bewell Vice-President: Cecile Alarie-Skene Treasurer: Dolores Tutkaluk Recording Secretary: Pat Opalko Corresponding Secretary: Cathie Morgan-Matula Membership Convener: Cecile Alarie-Skene Club Notices: Brenda Zebrynski

Luncheon Dates:

October 1, 2015: Buffet Lunch and Fashion Show December 10, 2015: Served Lunch and Seasonal Program February 25, 2016: Buffet Lunch and Guest Speaker A retired teacher tells about being a caregiver to a family members with Alzheimers April 21, 2016: Served Luncheon, AGM and Fun Program

Social Committee: Bessie Marie Hill, Louise Burton, Lynda Tunny, Donna Majnusz, Kathy Deyman, Bernice Stebbing Tickets: Birdielyn Gray, Kathleen Parums RTAM & Pensions: Peggy Prendergast Visiting: Emily Williamsom Publicity: Heather Emberley Archivist: Sultana Hussain Pianist: Charlotte Stech

Southwest Assiniboine . . . continued from page 32

Upon leaving the museum we ventured over to the Canadian Mennonite University in Charleswood for a very delicious lunch including of course a bowl of Mennonite Borscht! Following lunch and a time of fellowship we departed for our next “port of call” the Assinoine Park Zoo. While I cannot be absolutely certain of this, I thought I overheard several retired teachers mutter something to the effect that coming to a zoo was a bit like returning to the classroom. But then my hearing is not as good as it once was!!!

The Polar Bear Exhibit seemed to be the main attraction during our visit. Many of the bears were

outdoors snoozing in a cool spot we did not get to see many of them close up and swimming. I guess everyone is entitled to a day off now and then. Prior to leaving the zoo we gathered at a statue of a “no name” Polar Bear for our traditional/mandatory group photo.

On our way back to Virden we stopped at the ANAF Vets Hall in Portage La Prairie for supper and more fellowship.

Upon arriving back in Virden at the scheduled time, another tour came to a successful end.

Plans will soon be underway for another tour in 2016. § RTAM.MB.CA

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Dr. Louisa Loeb: Permit Teachers Of Manitoba - 11th Annual Reunion Text & Photos By Ed Arndt-Virden Far left: L-R: Ed Arndt, The Honourable James Allum, Minister of Education & Advanced Learning, Theresa Antoniuk (Reunion Committee Chair). Left: Marlene Anderson from Delta, B.C. is recognized as the person "Coming the farthest" to attend this reunion.

Far left: Registration Desk Personnel welcomed reunion attendees. L-R: Lavone Lesperance-Caron, Edith Alexiuk (registrar), Karen Boughton. Left: Theresa Antoniuk makes a presentation to Bill Badiuk (Petersfield) for being the first to register for the 2015 Reunion.

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n July 9, 2015, a year’s planning by the Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba 11th Annual Reunion Committee culminated in a reunion of approximately 50 permit teachers and their former students and guests at the Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg.

The theme this year was “Students and Teachers Together Again.” This theme reflected the fact that this year, as a slightly different approach to our reunion we were encouraged by Louisa Loeb to invite former students whom we had taught on permit to attend the reunion with us. This first attempt appeared to be somewhat successful and it is our hope to expand this aspect for our 2016 Reunion. It was interesting to note some nine former students were in attendance, including five from one school in the rural Gilbert Plains area.

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Committee Chair, Theresa Antoniuk, welcomed all teachers and guests and outlined the day’s activities.

Ed Arndt introduced The Honourable James Allum, Minister of Education, who was the featured speaker during the day.

In his speech Minister Allum acknowledged the great contributions made to the educational process by permit teachers in Manitoba and congratulated the assembled group for their ongoing efforts in preserving this aspect of Manitoba’s history.

On behalf of the permit teachers Wally Stoyko thanked the minister for taking the time out of his busy schedule to attend this reunion.

A sit down meal was served followed by an enthusiastic “Sing Along” led by Marie Enns accompanied by her autoharp.

Several attendees were recognized for various reasons. Marlene Anderson of Delta, B.C.

was awarded a prize for coming the farthest to attend this reunion and Bill Badiuk from Petersfield, MB was recognized for being the first to register for the 2015 reunion.

The “Open Mic” session provided an opportunity for both former teachers and their students to share some humourous and intriguing stories of their experiences as teachers and students of permit teachers.

Thanks to many generous donors a host of door prizes were given away during the day.

A new reunion committee to plan the 2016 Reunion was elected. This committee includes Andy & Edith Alexiuk, Theresa Antoniuk, Ed Arndt, Bill Badiuk, Mel Bodnarus, Karen Boughton, Wally Stoyko, Ralph Trombo and former students Vera McCallum and Sydney Puchailo. §

CHAPTER REPORTS

Class of 56 - 57, MPNS, 58th Reunion Gloria Wilton

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ur 58th reunion for the class of 1956 1957, Manitoba Provincial Normal School, held in Portage la Prairie on May 21, 2015, at the Canad Inn, was fun (it always is).

The numbers were rather disappointing. We were 49 in all, with another 20 alumnus who never arrived. The ballroom setting was pleasing, the food always exception and the staff were very accommodating.

The committee, hard working and helpful, were: Jeanette Moran, Janis Kelly, Venda Terry, Gloria Wilton, Winnipeg; Evelyn Rheaume, Portage la Prairie; Sheila McCausland, Phyllis Crosson, Brandon; Bernice McMahon, Delta, BC. They were soundly applauded and deservingly so.

Hopefully, there will be a 60th reunion to be held in Winnipeg. People who will soon be octagenarians are equal to the task of organizing the next reunion We just need more volunteers.

So we are old. We are past our prime. Our bodies are starting to hurt a lot. To the casual observer and yourself, you are starting to sag, wrinkle and forget stuff. Many invasions of our body are not welcome: hives, cataracts, shingles, hearing loss, fractures, prostates, age spots, hair loss, sciatica, bunions, varicose veins, eating disorders, etc., etc.

Yes, maintaining a healthy balanced life style helpls. a good diet and regular excercise should be de rigeur. However, when you suffer from AGE, just let the good times roll.

Since 1957, we have been through some tumultuous and historical times. The first moonwalk, the emergence of newly elected political parties, the new voting age of 18, the recognition of Louis Riel as a political figure of importance; the still emerging Feminine Mystique; and, of course, the Joe Oliver Federal Budget of 2015.

Our children will soon be fed up with remembering our birthdays with cards and gifts. However, in terms of personal wealth, most of us are financially better placed than our parents were.

This results in our children being left not negligible inheritances.

Sadly, since May, 2013, the 56th reunion, we have lost 15 of our alumnus. "We who have seen the stars, fear not the night."

We have commemorated our 58th reuion with two poems. Appreciation to Delores Lohrenz and Bernice McMahon, Poetesses.

We find KIT a wonderflplace to advertise events and submit our aricles and photos. Thank you to all who subscribe to KIT. It definitely does Keep us In Touch. § RTAM.MB.CA

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Our University Of Winnipeg 55+ Program Is Just Right For You Mark Shaddock, Member, Advisory Committee, 55 Plus Program, PACE, University of Winnipeg

F

or retired teachers, with a zest for learning, the University of Winnipeg's 55 Plus Program courses are designed to meet your every interest. Although it is called the 55 Plus Program, it is meant for adults of any age who want to continue to learn. All of the courses are taught on campus in an environment that is invigorating, social and friendly. It can be an exciting place to be.

There are no admission requirements; no academic requirements; no course prerequisites; no assignments and no exams. Students take these courses purely for the joy of learning.

Just select your course(s) from the online list on our website found at http://pace.uwinnipegcourses.ca/55-plus-program. Register online or phone 204 982 6633 at the University to register and pay the modest course fees. You can also register in person at the Buhler Building on Portage Avenue at Memorial Boulevard. That's it!

The selection of courses offered changes each year, but typical subject areas include history, current affairs, religion, music, literature, politics, philosophy, art history and the sciences. Each course runs for two hours one morning or afternoon each week and most courses are 6 to 12 weeks in length. Fall session classes begin in September or October and Winter sessions classes begin in

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January or February.

The 55 Plus instructors are renowned local experts in the course that they teach. They range from current or retired U of W professors to a retired Justice to retired politicians, even a retired Manitoba Premier has been one of our presenters.

This year, five of the instructors are past winners of the prestigious Clifford J. Robson Award for Teaching Excellence, in recognition of their dedication to and love of teaching.

If anyone would be interested in submitting an outline for a course that they would like to teach in the 55+ Program, we would be very pleased to hear from you. We are always looking for new instructors and courses. There would be a modest stipend for the instructor teaching the course.

This would be for courses in the 2016/2017 program period and beyond. If you are interested, please get in touch with Lelita Bailey, Program Manager at PACE at 204-982-1701.

The 55 Plus Program is administered through the University of Winnipeg Professional, Applied and Continuing Education office (PACE) in the Buhler Building. If you have any questions, please visit the website or call PACE at 204 982 6633.

We would be happy to answer any of your questions and we look forward to seeing you at one or more of our courses. §

Letter to the Editor

I

read the letter to the editor written by employees’ pension. And that would be for each Ray Sitter with great interest. It was an and every year. What sane employer would want impassioned letter and I believe that the to take on this liability?? author had the very best of intentions, if not the If we were to go back 60 years, we would find best knowledge as to how pensions work or don’t that employees worked until age 65 and then had work. At best, his research and knowledge of the decency to die around age 72. Pension plans pensions is lacking. At worst, it was an attempt to were quite stable and able to pay out pension pour gasoline on the pension flames. funds without worrying too much about being Mr. Sitter used the term “Defined Benefit underfunded.

Pension Plan” but conveniently omits the basic Today, employees are able to retire earlier with fact that there are three (3) types of defined full benefits and no reduction in their pension pension plans, each with its own peculiarities. benefits. It is possible to retire at age 55 with full There is: pension benefits. Therefore, what you have is an 1) the Career Average defined benefit employee who contributes for 10 years less into 2) the Final Average defined benefit and the pension plan but lives 35 years longer than her 3) the Best Average defined benefit predecessor. Ask your math teacher if he truly I will attempt to clarify this for you by giving believes that the same formula is sustainable with you the following examples and their outcomes. the different parameters.

For this, I will assume that Alice starts her career In his second last paragraph, Mr. Sitter gives at a salary of $25,000 and receives a $2,000 raise a choice of two employment opportunities, one each and every year for her 35 year working career. In her 35th “Today, employees are able to retire year, her salary will have risen to earlier with full benefits and no $93,000. These numbers may reduction in their pension benefits. It closely reflect a teacher’s salary over the past 35 years. is possible to retire at age 55 with full Let’s look at the pension pension benefits. Therefore, what you benefits for Alice under each of the three options. Under have is an employee who contributes #2 & #3, her pension would for 10 years less into the pension plan be $62,300 per year. However under #1, her pension would but lives 35 years longer than her be only $41,300 per year. It is predecessor.“ more of a true reflection of her earnings as it takes into account her earlier years. For 19 out of the 35 years, with a Defined Benefit Pension and the other her gross income would have been less than her without. I grew up in Winnipeg’s North End. pension income under options #2 or #3.

That may not mean anything to anyone who did The difference in her pension would be $21,000 not grow up in the Holy Land, but we were taught for each and every year she lived in retirement. at an early age that there was no validity in a twoNow let’s assume that her employer had 15,000 sided proposition. There was always a third side employees. This would give her employer a to everything. potential liability of $300,000,000 for the Let’s add a third side to Ray’s proposition, RTAM.MB.CA

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the third side being no Defined Pension Benefit but the funds that would have gone into the pension are now diverted to your personal RRSP. Everyone knows that an individual RRSP has growth potential and flexibility that no pension plan can possibly match. Given the third choice, anyone who ever passed Grade 8 would opt for the RRSP. In short, the choices given by Mr. Sitter were not complete nor were they fair.

Unfortunately, Mr. Sitter, like the British at Hong Kong during WWll, has his guns pointed in the wrong direction. Proper research would have pointed his efforts in the direction of the Canada Pension Plan and its theft of funds from Canadian taxpayers. It is of a degree that makes Bernie Madoff look like a nickel and dime hustler.

The maximum required contribution to the CPP is currently $4,850 per year, half to be paid by the employee and half by the employer.

Assuming that the current contribution level stays constant, (It will not) if you start at age 25 and contribute for 40 years to age 65, you will have contributed a total of $194,000 to the plan. If the plan had a growth rate of 5%, it would have Grands 'n' More Winnipeg Presents:

An Evening with Barbara Coloroso Barbara Coloroso is an internationally recognized speaker and author in the area of parenting, teaching, school discipline, non-violent conflict resolution and reconciliatory justice. She is the author of five international best sellers.

Discussing her latest book The Bully, The Bullied, and The Not-So-Innocent Bystander • Knox United Church 400 Edmonton Street • October 14, 2015 7:00 - 9:00 pm • Tickets $20.00 – McNally Robinson Book Store, Grant Park Shopping Centre – Barb: 204 - 257 - 7511 (after September 1) – grandsnmore@gmail.com Barbara Coloroso's accommodation provided by

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grown to $585,878. At 6%, it would have grown to $750,955. At 10% (what a well-managed fund should return) it would have grown to $2,146,574.

That represents a fair amount of change.

The benefit to the recipient is calculated to be ~$12,000 per year. The return on your investment is roughly from a high of 2.0% to a low of 0.5%.

No self-respecting financial advisor would consider this a decent return on your investment.

They would call it abysmal at the very best.

And that’s the good news!!! The bad news comes when you die. Assume that you die at age 65 with no spouse. The death benefit is a whopping $2,500.

That’s out of your total contribution of $194,000.

Perhaps Mr. Sitter’s question should be, “What happened to my $191,500??” or my $583,000?? Or my $748,500?? Or my $2,144,000?? It disappeared, that’s what happened to it.

In the next breath, politicians will tell you that retired Canadians do not have sufficient income to maintain a lifestyle in retirement. Of course they don’t!! You have just stolen anywhere from $500,000 to $2,000,000 from each and every Canadian who contributed to your sacred CPP. And to add insult to injury, the provinces now want to get into the pension game. After all, it is morally wrong to allow a sucker to keep his money.

I won’t even go into what Pigmeat Markham had to say about it.

My question is, “Why aren’t Canadians mad as Hell about this theft, shouting it from the rooftops and doing something about it.” Or are they so apathetic that they refuse to get off their collective butts?? Or are they really so ignorant of finances that they just don’t understand that they are being financially raped??

Perhaps it’s time to put the real problem in the spotlight. The question of a Defined Benefit Pension Plan vs a Defined Contribution Pension Plan pales in comparison to the real threat to retired Canadians income. Your input to this matter would be greatly appreciated. § William Mahon

CLASSIFIEDS The Manitoba Teachers’ Society seeks

photos, artifacts and other records of teaching and Society activities from 1919 to the present.

The ManitobaCall Teachers’ Mireille Theriault at 204-888-7961 ext Society354 seeks or email mtheriault@mbteach.org

photos, artifacts and other records of teaching and Society Friends ofactivities the Winnipeg from 1919 to the present.

Public Library

11th Annual Big Fall Book Sale Saturday October 17,at10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Call Mireille Theriault Sunday October 204-888-7961 ext18, 35411 a.m. – 3 p.m. or email Grant Park High School Gym, Grant & Nathaniel, mtheriault@mbteach.org Winnipeg 60 tables loaded with good used books from nearly new to very old. CDs, DVDs & LPs too.

On Sunday everything is half-price.

For more information: (204) 488-3217; info@friendswpl.ca A Friends' Fundraiser in support of Winnipeg Public Library projects.

St. Paul's Fort Garry - 12th Annual BrushWorks Friday, October 16 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m: wine and cheese Saturday, October 17 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.: cafe Sunday, October 18 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.: cafe St. Paul's Fort Garry, 830 North Drive, Winnipeg, MB Phone: (204) 475 7549 (church office for information) Come and share the opportunity to view and purchase original art work by 36 Manitoba artists. Framed and unframed oils, watercolours, pastels, prints and art cards will be available.

There will also be raffles of art work and a cafe for you to enjoy while contemplating which art piece will be perfect for that special wall space. Be sure to tell your friends!

Normal School Class of 1955 - 56 60th Anniversary June 11th 2016, Winnipeg MB For more information contact: E-mail:normalschool56@mymts.net or write 60th Reunion 330 Montrose Street, Winnipeg MB R3M 3M8 Please send your address, e-mail and information on other class members. More information will be mailed out in Fall 2015

Don't get stuck inside this winter!

Deer Lodge Ladies Curling Club is looking for curlers for its Tues./Thurs. morning league starting after Thanksgiving.

Curl once or twice a week; flexible schedules an option.

New curlers and stick curlers welcome! Training Provided.

Call Karen at (204) 889-1450 for information.

University Women's Club of Winnipeg 35th Annual Christmas Market at 54 West Gate Locatedin the national Historic Site of the 100 year old Ralph Connor House Friday, November 6th 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday, November 7th 10;00 am - 4:00 pm Admission $ 3.00 3 floors of Manitoba crafts and giftware including baked goods. 204-954-7880, www.uwcwinnipeg.ca

Volunteers Needed!

The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba is looking for volunteers for the Minds in Motion® program.This program focuses on promoting physical activity, socialization and mental stimulation for people with dementia and their care partners.

Please visit our website at www.alzheimer.mb.ca/ mindsinmotion for our volunteer program assistant description & our fillable online application form!

For more information, call Maria Mathews, Minds in Motion® Program Coordinator at 204-943-6622.

House sit for expenses

Nanaimo, November 01, 2015 to April 01, 2016 hewebber@msn.com

It’s the 20th anniversary of Coffee Break®! Make your coffee count! Host a Coffee Break® event this September or October. It is an easy and fun way to show your support for people affected by dementia. Register online today.

Scottsdale, AZ

CUBA – ‘Spanish Studies in Cuba’ (Havana)

Condo vacation rentals by owner Kathy Robins (Goldman). www.29desertsunescape.com; 519-720-0267 Brantford, ON

$2,870.00 CAD for 4 wks. Hotel with breakfast and dinner, tuition fee. (Air fare not included). 250-478-0494 ssic@telus.net / http://spanishstudiesincuba.ca

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