KIT Magazine - Winter 2014

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 26 | No. 3| Winter 2014 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 1-204-889-3660 | Manitoba Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | rtam@mymts.net | rtam.mb.ca

PN 40037581

VOLUNTEERING SCAN ME

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

KEEP IN TOUCH Winter 2014 • Vol. 26 No. 3

Published by RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed to dsage@mymts.net and received by March 9, 2014, 5:00 p.m.

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

- May, 2015, AGM, Portage la Prairie

RTAM PLANS ADMINISTERED BY JOHNSON INC.

If you require information and brochures, or if you have any questions concerning these plans (Dental, House Insurance, 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: edmonton@johnson.ca

NOTICE TO PAID KIT ADVERTISERS

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.

HAVE YOU MOVED OR CHANGED YOUR ADDRESS?

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.

2 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

206-1555 St. James St. 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 Privacy Officer: Wayne Hughes 82 Whiteshell Avenue Winnipeg, MB R2C 2R9 204-222-4011 lwhughes@mymts.net Board of Directors 2014-2015 President: Wayne Hughes Vice -President: Marvin Krawec Secretary: Judy Olmstead Treasurer: Carol Pelton Directors-at-Large Alex Boyes Peter Carney Ralph Cibula Joan Dawson Guy Hansen Barbara McDole Peggy Prendergast Doreen Sage Ray Sitter John Sushelnitsky Art Direction & Layout: Gayl Punzalan Managing Partner & Creative Director Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images are licensed from fotolia.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2014 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

Presentation of Annual Grant from TRAF

by Norm Gould, Acting Chair of TRAF, to Wayne Hughes, RTAM President.

Table of Contents

17 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.

Benefits of Volunteering.....................................................................04 President’s Report..............................................................................05 Volunteer Survey Winners..................................................................06 More Magic of Herbs.........................................................................07 What’s In A Name, Anyway?..............................................................08 RTAM-PC meeting at the Legislature.................................................09 Educational Advocacy Report............................................................10 Canadian Pension Plan.......................................................................11 Volunteer Survey Summary Report....................................................12 Emergency Medical Travel Coverage ...............................................13 Eldercare Select Pilot Project.............................................................15 Have Your Say With the RTAM Voluntary Benefit Plan Survey.........................................................16 Neepawa Area Retired Teachers’ Association...................................16 WREA – RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant.............................................17 Southwest Assiniboine Retired Teachers...........................................18 Retired Women Teachers’ Association ..............................................19 Senior’s Advocacy Forum...................................................................20 RTAM - Dauphin Chapter...................................................................21 Thompson Retired Teachers’ Association..........................................22 Did You Know That The Lake Winnipeg Coast Guard Is Directed From Victoria?.........................................22 RWTA Fall Outing...............................................................................23 To Hell with the Bells..........................................................................23 Have You Planned For Your Digital Assets?.......................................24 Join The Board - You Won’t Be Bored!..............................................25 Celebrating Chapter Members..........................................................26 Winners of AGM, 2013, Draw............................................................26 Clear Lake Golf Tournament..............................................................27 Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers Of Manitoba 10th Annual Reunion...................................................28 Manitoba Teachers’ College 1958-59 Reunion........................................ 29 CLASSIFIEDS......................................................................................30

RTAM.MB.CA

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Benefits of Volunteering Did you know that volunteering not only has a positive impact on your community but, quite possibly also has many benefits for you as well?

Joan Dawson, Wellness Committee Member

S

taying active is important and what better way to stay active than to become a volunteer.

Whatever your passion, however you get involved, volunteering offers a way to have a real and lasting impact on the world. It really is better to give than to receive.

10 Good Reasons to volunteer

Be a part of your community.

Share your skills with others.

Meet new people.

Build self-esteem and confidence.

Learn or develop skills.

Feel needed and valued.

Give meaning and purpose to your life.

4 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

Improve your health.

Express gratitude for help you may have received in the past.

Make a difference in someone’s life.

President’s Report

November 2014

I Wayne Hughes RTAM President

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

n this position as President, I have found I spend a lot of time “Thanking” people. It may be thanking them for what they have done, are currently doing, or plan to do in the near future. We are fortunate to have so many individuals and groups working in multiple ways to meet the needs of retired teachers across Manitoba and across Canada.

This issue of KIT is no different, except in the numbers. Allow me to start with the largest number.

• 1476 individual “Thank you’s” to all the RTAM members who responded to the Volunteer Survey. That number of responses means over 16% of our membership took the time to respond to the survey. Since you took that time, we now have a very reliable study that confirms the high number of volunteer hours given to our communities by retired teachers. You can read some of the highlights in this issue as well as find out the names of the four lucky winners of the $100 gift certificates. You can also read the entire study as written by Prairie Research Associates on our website at www.rtam.mb.ca.

• “Thank you” to Judy Olmstead and her Ad Hoc Committee for their work in guiding the study to a successful conclusion. Their work was assisted by the consultations and advice given by Jo-Ann Lauber of the British Columbia Retired Teach-

ers’ Association. Since the surveys were of similar design, we now have two very reliable studies that show how retired teachers in two different provinces continue to contribute to their communities after they retire.

• “Thank you” to the 22 members of the Extended Health Benefits Plan who took time to attend the Eldercare information session at the RTAM office on September 17. Jason Hutton from Eldercare gave a very interesting presentation on the services available to them as part of the pilot project sponsored

by Johnson Insurance. An article on Eldercare is included in this KIT. • “Thank you” to the Louis Riel Chapter of RTAM for their invitation to attend their meeting on October 2.

It was a pleasure to see the many colleagues reconnecting and enjoying a pre-Thanksgiving meal. Congratulations to Jack Fraser who has taken on the Presidency role for the chapter.

• “Thank you” to Dennis Kozak and George Takashima for all their efforts in contacting and organizing the RTAM members around Calgary. It looks like we will soon have a new chapter in Alberta. Congratulations!

• “Thank you” to MLA Wayne Ewasko who is the Education critic for the PC party for initiating contact with representatives from RTAM. Together with a number of fellow MLAs, Mr. Ewasko was updated on a number

RTAM.MB.CA

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

of issues important to retired teachers in particular, as well as some general concerns of seniors.

• “Thank you” to all the RTAM members who participated in the “sold out” Wellness Seminar at Assiniboine Park on Oct. 15.

• “Thank you” to Frank Fiorentino for his service to RTAM as a Board member. Unfortunately, Frank has found it necessary to submit his resignation from the board for personal reasons. We are glad he is able to continue as a committee member on two committees.

• “Thank you” to the chapter members of Retired Teachers’ of Winnipeg who assisted with the very informative session at Bronx Park Good Neighbours Active Living Cen-

tre on Oct. 23 outlining the many community resources available in Winnipeg-East, Elmwood and Transcona area. Another “sold out” event sponsored by retired teachers.

• “Thank you” to the TRAF Board hosting our annual liaison meeting. We always appreciate their ongoing interest in our activities as well as the annual grant of $500 which we traditionally use for communication with our chapters and members. We continue to look forward to the discussion on the “Restricted Surplus.”

We also receive a lot of “Thank yous”. Carol and Grace are constantly receiving calls for information and/or difficulties in under-

standing the Plans. They usually end with “Thank you” for making it so easy to understand!” Recently another big “Thank You” was given for their services as Commissioner for Oaths. Remember this service is available at no cost for RTAM members.

Now is most likely a good time to start thinking about attending the Annual General Meeting in May. Hopefully, you will also consider becoming involved with one of our many committees or even serving as a Board member. As an organization we now have over 9000 members. We always need new ideas and enthusiasm. Please consider helping your fellow retired teachers.

Thank you for your continued support.

Volunteer Survey Winners Judy Olmstead

R

etired teachers who completed the Volunteer Survey had the opportunity to enter a draw for $100.00.

The four winners were chosen

by Prairie Research Associates who conducted the survey. They are: Dave Driedger (Winnipeg), Don Kellett (Killarney), Bonnie Scott (Winnipeg), Jan Tooth (Oakville).

RTAM president, Wayne Hughes, is shown presenting winner, Bonnie Scott, with her $100. Bonnie plans to use her winnings to assist her volunteer work of feeding the homeless

6 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

in downtown Winnipeg. Bonnie volunteers with the Gifts of Grace Street Mission making casseroles and feeding and clothing those in need.

Congratulations to all volunteers, whether you do a little or a lot. You do make a difference!

COMMITTEE REPORTS

More Magic of Herbs O Lydia Heshka, Wellness Committee Member

ctober 15, 2014, was a perfect autumnal day for participants to gather at Assiniboine Park’s Family Qualico Centre for a wellness seminar called “More Magic of Herbs.” This was a follow-up workshop to the one offered last year. This year the objective was that we would learn how to use herbs, not only for re-energizing, but also for relaxation. Herbs can also address our emotional needs.

Our expert instructors, Karen and Bonnie, told us how essential oils are derived from plants.

Leaves, stems, roots or petals are distilled to produce true essential oils. We were reminded how smells trigger memories and emotions. Different essential oils can enhance certain emotions. For instance, citrus-based oils have positive effects on SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), which is characterized by low energy. Lavender and basil can help address stress and sleep disorders. Rosemary is known for strengthening our memories.

Karen and Bonnie soon had us busily interacting, as we made ‘herbal aromatic bath tea’ sachets to take home for a relaxing soak in the tub. We made body lotions and scrubs using various essential oils of our choice. It was a veritable “make and take” party.

Following our morning session, we were served a delicious buffet lunch in the Tamarack

Room, offering us more opportunities to mingle with new and former friends, and hear how they are spending their time in retirement.

The afternoon session consisted of two activities. Our first was an opportunity to do some actual garden photography. There was a slide presentation giving us some general photography tips, such as “the rule of thirds.” This was followed by our actual field-trip to the English and Leo Mol Gardens, where we tried to put into practice what we had learned. Upon our return to the Acorn Activity Room, our second activity was to play in the dirt and transplant our own parsley and lavender

plants. A handout provided us with details on how to care for our two new herbs.

Enthusiastic comments heard throughout the day were reflected by the extremely positive evaluation sheets. There were A+’s across the board with suggestions for ‘a repeat next year’, ‘excellent’, ‘a wonderful day of learning and fun in one of Winnipeg’s treasures (Assiniboine Park) at one of the best times of the year’, ‘I feel energized’, ‘time well spent, splendid day’, and many ‘thank you’s.

Each of us went home with two potted herbs and a bag full of the aromatic herbal products we had made. It was a most energizing and productive day!

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

What’s in a name, anyway?

John Sushelnitsky, Co-Chair of Political Advocacy

P

erception is usually based on appearances, so people say. While a “rose is a rose is a rose,” to some people, it is a beautiful flower with very sharp thorns. They view that beautiful flower with some trepidation because they have been pricked by the thorns and had a favourite sweater shredded by the branches.

Another example occurred recently, well, in 2011, when The Manitoba Teachers’ Society decided to rename its annual fall professional development day.

For many years, it had been known as SAG, or Special Area Groups. The perception of that term SAG was of depression although the day and its activities were exciting and enlightening. So, someone came up with the idea of adding an “e” to SAG making it “SAGE,” a more fitting title for a day of professional development.

In the same way, teacher and retired teacher groups nationally have been re-

8 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

thinking the image that the term “Political Action” calls up. Picketing the Premier’s house and yelling at Education Ministers at Legislative rallies are examples of the most extreme “Actions” that some groups across the country have used and it engenders a very negative image in the eyes of the public. Instead, there has been a movement to change the word “Action” to “Advocacy.”

This new word gives both a softer and more thoughtful image to the persuasiveness that we wish to achieve.

As a result, after discussions at the Public Relations, the Political Action and the Board of Directors meetings, it was decided at the Board meeting October 16, 2014, to change the name of the committee from Political Action to Political Advocacy.

This change of policy will need to be ratified by a resolution at the May, 2015, AGM, being held in Portage la Prairie.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM-PC meeting at the Legislature October 10, 2014 John Sushelnitsky

R

TAM representatives met with Wayne Ewasko, the PC Education critic and members of the PC party, to discuss issues affecting retired teachers. Wayne Hughes, RTAM President, led the RTAM presentation and began by responding to the PC request for feedback on their Blueprint for Policy Change. Our President pointed out that the Blueprint did not mention retired teachers in particular or senior citizens in general. He stressed that seniors were a growing demographic and should be taken seriously.

Peggy Prendergast provided a two page write-up of her personal feedback to the Policy Blueprint as one example of a senior’s perspective. Peggy also emphasized the need for better communication of the services already available. RTAM has sponsored a number of workshops around the province, together with other organizations, to fill this need.

There was a brief summary of the history of events leading up to Bill 45, together with a chart

summarizing the past six years.

There was a chart detailing the declining purchasing power for retired teachers. Looking to the future, there was concern about what will happen to any surplus accumulated in the Restricted Surplus Reserve Fund established by that Bill.

One of the handouts was a letter from former PC leader Hugh McFadyen outlining the PC party’s past support for a number of RTAM concerns such as the cost of living adjustments, TRAF representation and Pension Task Force. The question was posed as to the current position of the PC party.

The PC members were very interested in our Volunteer Survey and would like to receive more information on the details. The

economic value of the volunteer work was mentioned as well as the widespread involvement of retired teachers in their communities. The final RTAM challenge was to find long term solutions for the teachers’ pension plan. The government should take a leadership role in bringing the government, active teachers and including retired teachers together with the plan administrator (TRAF).

In addition to Ewasko, the PCs in attendance were MLAs Ian Wishart, Cliff Cullen, Heather Stefanson; Policy Analyst Stephanie Dudok and Communications Officer Mike Brown. Representing RTAM were Wayne Hughes, Marvin Krawec, Peggy Prendergast and John Sushelnitsky.

RTAM.MB.CA

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

Educational Advocacy Report October 2014

Peggy Prendergast, Educational Advocacy & Award Co-Chair

Austin J. McWhirtier

Taneisha Dumas

T

he Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba has established an endowment fund with The Winnipeg Foundation with an initial contribution of $50,000.

The endowment fund may provide support for four, $500.00 awards each year to a Grade 12 graduate involved in school and community activities, enrolled in some form of post-secondary education and sponsored by a relative who is an RTAM mem-

Nicholas Bonin

ber. There were 45 award applications submitted this year.

As the RTAM Endowment Fund grows, the size and number of awards could also increase. In the future, the awards could expand to include post graduate students and students already enrolled in post-secondary education.

As retired teachers, we place a strong value on education and would like to support young people in their studies. To help grow the size of the RTAM En-

Alexandra Magas

dowment Fund, gifts or bequests can be made to this fund through The Winnipeg Foundation. Tax receipts are issued for all donations. Gifts may be made online at www.wpgfdn.org (search ‘Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba’ on the Donate Now page) or by mail directly to The Winnipeg Foundation, 1350 One Lombard Place, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0X3.

RTAM is pleased to announce and congratulate the winners and their sponsors for 2014: Award Winner

Location

Sponsor

Relationship

Nicholas Bonin Taneisha Dumas Alexandra Magas Austin J. McWhirtier

Winnipeg Rorketon East St. Paul Winnipeg

Mrs. Patricia Vandal Mrs. Elizabeth Michalot Mrs. Shirley Augustine Mr. Andrew “Don” McWhirtier

Grandmother Grandmother Grandmother Father

10 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

S

ince we all contribute to the CPP, perhaps it’s time to throw some light on the subject. It was established by an act of Parliament in 1965.

Developed by Satistics Canada in 1965, it is based on the OTPP (Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan) and was established as a Crown Corporation in 1995.

The amount of one’s pension depends on how long one has contributed and how much employers and employees contribute equally 4.95%.

The contributory period is between the ages of 18 and 65; a total of 47 years. To get to the maximum, one must contribute at least 85% (40 years) of the time of the eligibility to contribute. The standard age for receiving CPP is one month after the 65th birthday. However, one can take a reduced pension from age 60.

(It will be reduced by up to 32.4%.)

From 2012 to 2016 the government is changing the early pension reduction from 0.59% to 0.6% for each month one receives the pension before age 65. By 2016, anyone who starts receiving the CPP at age 60, will receive 36% less than if he/she had taken it at age 65.

The average amount ,of the pension, for new beneficiaries, age 65, as of March 2014, is $611.85. The maximum amount is $1038.33 CPP is indexed. The increase is calculated once a year using the Consumer Price Index. The amounts are adjusted once a year; in January. The rate increase is based on the percentage change from one 12 month period to the previous. The average CPI over,

the 12 months, is used to calculate the rate increase. For example; the average CPI (November-2011 to October -2012) was 121.5 The average CPI (November-2012 to October-2013) was 122.6.

Therefore,122.6 divided by121.5 =(1.009-1) X 100 = .09% . This is the rate increase in CPI Those who start collecting CPP in 2013 will receive more money than those who are already drawing benefits.

Some provinces are lobbying the Federal Government to raise the ceiling of the CPP Pension. There are many retirees whose CPP is unsatisfactory as things stand today. Circumstances were such that their contribution are in not in concert with the economic needs of today.

According to CARP (an article in Zoomer Magazine) seven percent of seniors live in poverty. One fifth of single senior women live in poverty. Some three hundred thousand seniors live on fixed incomes, and some six hundred and eighty thousand are financially vulnerable.

A modest ten percent increase in CPP would result in a maximum benefit of $4830 (CARP) A modest CPP expansion will not have a significant impact on the next generation of retirees according to FEI Canada Policy Forum of May 1, 2014, but it will go a long way towards providing adequate retirement income for more Canadians.

Boosting the premiums and benefits of CPP would not kill 70,000 jobs as Finance Minister Sorenson says. It’s

a misleading assumption according to internal analysis. Canada could absorb any negative impact from an improved CPP. The Federal Government made a commitment to work with the provinces in 2010, to enhance the CPP. Provinces, the likes of Ontario, Manitoba and PEI are continuing to lobby the Federal Government to raise the ceiling on the maximum benefit. Perhaps it’s time for RTAM to beseech the national teachers’ organization, ACER-CART to join forces with those who are lobbying for the expansion of CPP. There is a some $180 billion plus pool of money available for such an intervention.

An article appeared in a national magazine’s September 15th issue entitled ‘Seniors – Old Loaded’ purporting that seniors are rolling in dough, so to speak. The article is suspect, malicious, disingenuous and mischievous. It goes against much of the data that shows otherwise. The article , in the September 2013 issue of Zoomer Magazine is one example of data that is more credible.

APOLOGY Some individual’s names have been unwittingly entered as being members of the pension committee. I apologize to those individuals for the transgression. The pension committee members are: Chair: Marvin Krawec Members: Peggy Prendergast, Winnipeg Frank Fiorentino, Winnipeg Peter Carney, Winnipeg Ray Sitter, Brandon Joanne Hoyak, MacGregor

-Marvin Krawec, Pension Chair RTAM.MB.CA

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

CANADIAN PENSION PLAN Marvin Krawec, Pension Chair

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Volunteer Survey Summary Report Judy Olmstead

T

hank you to all retired RTAM members who completed a survey and congratulations on being such dedicated volunteers. The results are exciting! Prairie Research Associates has compiled the results and prepared a very comprehensive report. With the large number of surveys completed, the results are highly reliable. This is a summary of their findings.

The majority (82%) of the 1,476 RTAM members surveyed report having volunteered in the past 12 months. On average, ongoing volunteers spend about 42 hours monthly, or over 500 hours annually, volunteering. Most demographic subgroups are equally likely to volunteer, regardless of gender, age, or number of years retired.

RTAM members engaged in at least 32 types of volunteer activities over the past 12 months, most commonly sitting as a board or committee member (52%), and organizing or supervising events (49%). About one-third have been involved in educating, canvassing/campaigning/fundraising, or personal support.

(Note-totals sum to more than 100% since

12 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

respondents could provide more than one answer.)

The vast majority (96%) of RTAM member volunteers have volunteered in the past year in an ongoing capacity. The most common areas of focus for ongoing volunteers include community organizations and events, education and religion. As they participate in their volunteer activities, they touch the lives of people in all age groups from children to seniors, and make a phenomenal contribution to the well-being and sustainability of communities. As one respondent noted, “People who volunteer are the fabric that keeps our rural communities strong!”

Another stated, “I reside in rural Manitoba. Volunteers are the heartbeat of my community.”

Overall, 33% of RTAM members have volunteered on a one event basis in the past 12 months. On average, those who volunteer at one event activities, devote 53 hours annually volunteering. The most common one event volunteer activity is canvassing, campaigning or fundraising. Additionally, about 1 in 4 volunteers engage in sports and community and church activities.

While the economic impact of these volunteer hours is huge, there are also personal benefits to the individual. As one respondent said, “Volunteering is one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve ever had! You get such a good feeling knowing you’ve helped.” Another responded, “ I believe that volunteering keeps me younger and active.”

Even among those who have not volunteered in the past year, 41% have volunteered at some point since retiring and about half intend on volunteering in the future. The most common reason for not volunteering is pursuing other interests, followed by health problems.

The survey showed that retired teachers enjoy volunteering and do so in great numbers to the benefit of society. “Without volunteering the world would be a much poorer place,” said one volunteer. “We do not live in isolation. We are part of a whole and we can make the whole better with our involvement.” Another commented “I consider volunteering to be the rent we pay for occupying space on this earth!”

The entire PRA report is available on RTAM’s website at rtam.mb.ca

Submitted by RTAM’s Plan Administrator, Johnson Inc

T

ravel insurance is designed to cover losses arising from sudden and unforeseeable circumstances, while travelling outside of Canada or your province of residence.

It is important that you read and understand your certificate of insurance before you travel as your coverage may be subject to certain limitations and exclusions.

A pre-existing medical condition exclusion may apply to medical conditions and/or symptoms that existed prior to your trip. In the event of an acci-

dent, injury or illness, your prior medical history may be reviewed when a claim is reported.

As described below, RTAM offers two comprehensive Emergency Medical Travel Insurance Plans, with different limitations on pre-existing conditions.

MEDOC Travel has a 90-day medical stability clause, while Premier Travel has no specific stability clause. Both plans require an emergency to be sudden and unforeseen. Both plans require immediate contact to your travel insurance provider to ensure expenses are covered. Both

plans provide pre-trip planning assistance for specific questions about your coverage or trip.

RTAM 62-Day Premier Travel Insurance Plan RTAM offers the following “Premier” Out-of-Province/ Country Emergency Medical Travel Insurance to Full RTAM Members: • Multiple annual trips up to 62 days duration (per trip) with a lifetime maximum of $2,000,000 coverage for sudden and unforeseen eligible emergency medical travel expenses.

Eligible expenses related to a pre-existing condition will be reimbursed at 100%, as long as the Emergency is deemed sudden and unforeseen by the insured person’s medical history and the insurer.

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COMMITTEE REPORTS / Benefits / Johnson

Emergency Medical Travel Coverage of Sudden and Unforseeable Events

COMMITTEE REPORTS / Benefits / Johnson

• Guaranteed issue regardless of age or health status with no evidence of good health required on first application.

• Supplemental trip extension coverage is available for purchase for trips lasting longer than 62 days and up to 212 days, if covered by provincial health care.

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption/Delay: u p t o $ 7 , 0 0 0 per insured per trip • Eligible expenses related to a pre-existing condition will be reimbursed at 100%, as long as the Emergency is deemed sud-

den and unforeseen by the insured person’s medical history and the insurer. “Sudden and unforeseen” means the sudden onset of a medical condition, manifesting itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity that the absence of immediate medical attention could result in: permanently placing the individual’s health in jeopardy; serious impairment to bodily functions; serious impairment and dysfunction of any bodily organ or part; or other serious medical consequences.

Please note: Immediate con-

tact to your travel insurance provider (Sigma Assistel) is necessary to ensure expenses are covered. At first onset of symptoms of a medical emergency and before the Insured Person seeks medical attention, he / she should contact the plan’s 24-hour assistance centre; however if the Insured Person is unable to do so because he / she is medically incapacitated, someone else must contact the travel insurance provider as soon as is reasonably possible. Otherwise eligible expenses may be limited.

What Is The “90-Day Stability Clause” Under Rtam’s 17/35 Day Medoc Travel Insurance Plan?

RTAM also offers the following 17/35 day “MEDOC” Out-ofProvince/Country Emergency Medical Travel Insurance to Full and Associate RTAM Members: • Base Plan for multiple trips up to either (1) 17-days per trip, or (2) 35-days per trip.

• Supplemental Plan for single trips longer than 35-days.

• Guaranteed issue (with short health questionnaire) regardless of age, health status, or date of application.

• Up to $5,000,000 coverage for eligible sudden and unforeseen emergency medical expenses (subject to 90-day stability prior to departure); • Up to $8,000 of non-refundable expenses for Trip Cancellation/Interruption/Delay Insurance per insured person, 14 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

per trip (subject to 90-day stability prior to booking); • A 90-day stability clause applies to MEDOC. The MEDOC plan does not cover pre-existing conditions incurred directly or indirectly as a result of a medical condition or related condition (other than a minor ailment), if in the 90 days before your day of departure or day of booking, that medical condition or related condition was not stable. In other words, MEDOC will not cover any medical conditions that were not deemed “stable” by your health care professional within 90 days of trip departure.

Please note: Immediate contact to your travel insurance provider (Global Excel) is necessary

to ensure expenses are covered.

At first onset of symptoms of a medical emergency and before the Insured Person seeks medical attention, he/she should contact the plan’s 24-hour assistance center; however, if the Insured Person is unable to do so because he/she is medically incapacitated, someone else must contact the travel insurance provider as soon as is reasonably possible.

Otherwise eligible expenses may be limited.

For further questions and plan information, please call our RTAM office at 204-889-3660, or RTAM’s Plan Administrator Johnson Inc. toll-free at 1-877989-2600, or visit the website www.johnson.ca/rtam.

Feedback Requested Submitted by Johnson Inc.

E

ldercare Select services are available to all RTAM Extended Health Care (EHC) Plan members, and their extended families, on a limited time Johnson-sponsored pilot project basis until April 1, 2015.

This is the last chance to promote Eldercare in KIT before the end of the pilot project. Your feedback during the pilot project will be requested and is important in determining whether the service should be continued, either as part of EHC, with over 330 members, or to some or all of 9,000 RTAM members.

Please call Johnson with questions or feedback on the project at 1.877.989.2600 (toll-free).

Services are available in Manitoba and across Canada. To raise awareness of the pilot project, RTAM hosted an information session to interested members on September 17, 2014 in Winnipeg.

Jason Hutton,

the presenter from First Health Care gave the following testimonial called “Henry’s Story” on how Eldercare Select personal care services helped a client in Ontario through a challenging caregiving situation. Call toll free 1.888.327.1500 to speak to an Eldercare Select Care Specialist.

Henry’s Story Submitted by Jason Hutton, First Health Care

Henry had been married to Barbara for 56 years and they had lived an amazing life together; but life had recently thrown them a curve ball. Barbara had managed through several health challenges throughout their marriage; she had survived several fights with cancer, she had to manage diabetes and she was living through the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Henry had always been there to care for Barbara, and had been her primary caregiver for some time, and he cared for her deeply, “She is my girl, she always will be, I would not trade her for anybody in the world.”

Things had recently gotten much more complicated for

Henry. Barbara’s condition had been progressively getting worse and Henry was struggling to continue to provide the care Barbara needed. Complicating things further, Henry had also been diagnosed with a health condition that would require care for him-self. Henry was not sure what his options were or where to turn next? He had a lot of questions with few answers. His insurance provider suggested he call Eldercare Select for help, a Nurse led caregiver support program he had access to through his Extended Health Care plan.

Henry spoke to a Nurse Care Specialist who collected a detailed history of his caregiving challenges and identified what supports were available that could help both Henry and his wife Barbara, both now and in the future. The Nurse Care Specialist put together a customized Map of Care Report that listed out all of the options available for Henry and Barbara. The report contained critical information that would help Henry and Barbara through their unique situation. When speaking of the report, Henry says “The ElderContinued on the next page

RTAM.MB.CA

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COMMITTEE REPORTS / Benefits / Johnson

Eldercare Select Pilot Project:

COMMITTEE REPORTS / Benefits / Johnson

Reminder: Have Your Say With the RTAM Voluntary Benefit Plan Survey Submitted by Johnson Inc.

I

n the most recent issue of KIT, you may recall reading about the RTAM 2014 Voluntary Benefit Plan Member Survey.

This survey focuses on the question: What approximate additional monthly premium would you be willing to consider for new and improved benefits beyond the level currently provided by the RTAM Insurance Plans?

The survey will be open until November 30, summarized and then presented to the RTAM

Benefits Committee for review and decision making on Plan design changes in the future. The survey is conducted by Johnson Inc., RTAM’s Plan Administrator / Benefits Consultant.

It is important to get feedback from as many RTAM members as possible. All those who complete the survey will be entered into a draw for one of two $200 gift cards of your choice. It will take about ten minutes of uninterrupted time to complete.

Here is a link to the survey:

Eldercare . . . continued from page 15 care Select report did two things she was also empathetic and paid for me; I had something I could attention to what I was saying.” read and go back to if I needed Henry has now put in place with good information. I also many of the supports suggested had a real Nurse out there look- by his Nurse Care Specialist for ing after me and the report. I both himself and Barbara. His had confidence in both the writ- interaction with his Nurse Care ten report and what she would Specialist allowed him to identidiscuss on the phone with me.” fy and organize the resources he “My Nurse was not only kind, but needed, and he has called back a

https://surveymonkey.com/s. aspx?sm=rnxoZ8MOq4NzdEZ1UInzUA_3d_3d We appreciate you taking time to complete the survey. If you have any questions regarding the survey, please contact Johnson at 1-877-989-2600 (toll-free), the RTAM office at 1-888-3938082 (toll-free) or 204-8893660 (Winnipeg). For information on the current RTAM Benefit Plans, please visit the website: www.johnson.ca/rtam.

number of times for additional guidance from his Nurse Care Specialist as he continues his caregiving journey. When asked about his overall experience with the Eldercare Select program he says “I would gladly recommend Eldercare Select to anyone that I thought might need it.”

Neepawa Area Retired Teachers Association Joyce Foster

A

NARTA (Neepawa Area Retired Teachers’ Association) group set off September 8, 2014, for a day of fun at Riding Mountain National Park.

Lunch was enjoyed at Poor Michael’s Bookshop: a place with books galore, crafts and art from around the world.

When we arrived for our scheduled Lawn Bowling, the rain had

16 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

started. Bowling was put on “hold!”

We toured the Park Museum until time to walk to the pier to board the Martese for a tour of the lake. Cold and high winds put this on“hold,” too!

The planned ice-cream stop on the way home became hot muffins, coffee and cocoa at Foxtail, Onanole. From a well-planned itinerary, it became a day of good visiting and good fun.

From left to right, Ralph Cibula, Edith Kidds, Irene Sulik, Wendy Denbow, Richard Kulbaki, Joan Rink, Ross Foster, Joyce Foster, Audrey Simon

Heather Shelton

O

n September 23, 2014, with the help of the Chapter Initiative Grant, WREA held a session entitled, “Opportunities for Tomorrow – Life After the Classroom.” Our intent was to explore some of the many hobbies and interests that are available and at the same time to encourage our members, both long time retires and new retirees, to join us in such an exploration.

An enthusiastic group met at Park Avenue Activity Centre and enjoyed six presentations.

One of our members, Cathy McLaren, led us through the steps of making electronic photo books. The Fung Loy Kok Tai Chi group (several of whom are

retired educators) performed a demonstration. We even got to try it! The art of wood carving was presented by Don Fosberg as he exhibited several beautiful, lifelike birds. For those who were interested in delving into the world of water colour and other art pastimes, Linda Skeoch from the Palette Club advised us of those opportunities. Our own Ray Sitter presented information regarding TFSA accounts.

A well-known local musician, Joan McKay, entertained us with piano music and a sing-a-long as well as providing wonderful background music during lunch.

The staff and students of Crocus Plains Regional High School Food Services provided an excel-

lent lunch of soup, sandwiches, and salad, rounding it off with pecan pie and strawberry/vanilla mousse for dessert.

We made sure everyone took home an RTAM bag which included an RTAM notebook/ pen as well as other “goodies” donated by local businesses. We also had three door prizes.

It was a very enjoyable time together. Those in attendance were very enthusiastic and asked many questions of each presenter. It was well worth the effort to explore some of the many activities that are available after retirement. Our thanks to RTAM for the Chapter Initiative Grant.

Clockwise from left: Cathy McLaren, Tai Chi group, Don Fosberg, Linda Skeoch, Ray Sitter, Joan McKay

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CHAPTER REPORTS

WREA – RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant

CHAPTER REPORTS

Southwest Assiniboine Retired Teachers Text and photos: Ed Arndt

Retired Teachers’ Tour Members exploring the Spirit Sands Desert near Carberry.

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n June 18, 2014, approximately 35 retired teachers and guests boarded a Brandon Bus Lines Motor Coach for “Another Adventure of a Lifetime Tour”…. well maybe not quite the “adventure of a lifetime”, but nonetheless quite interesting, informative and entertaining.

As in the past decade or so, this tour was once again sponsored by the Southwest Assiniboine Chapter of Retired Teachers’ Association and was organized and directed by our fellow retired educator, Kel Smith. Our capable and congenial bus driver for this tour was Jim Farthing.

This year we had multiple destinations scheduled. The first stop was the town of Carberry where we visited the Carberry Plains Museum and a very unique “Gingerbread House” adjacent to the museum. This house contained many turn of the century furnishings, etc.

This writer and many of my fellow travelers were particularly interested in a photo on the wall

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Southwest Assiniboine Retired Teachers’ Tour participants with “Sara the Camel” at Glenboro.

of a rather scantily clad former female Goulter School Principal.

I hasten to add it was picture of this person taken in her early infancy when she was probably six months old!

Our next visit was to the Seton Centre honoring a very famous former Carberry resident, Ernest Thompson Seton. This centre housed much information including many books and articles written by Seton. A garden featuring many native plants (part of the Seton Centre) was quite interesting and enjoyable and provided some equally interesting photo opportunities. Prior to leaving Carberry we were served a delicious lunch at the Carberry Legion.

From Carberry we proceeded south on No. 5 Highway to the Spirit Sands Desert. En route we went by the newly constructed Spirit Sands Casino which was scheduled to open to the public several days hence. It was probably a good thing that it was not open as I am sure some members of our touring group would

have insisted we stop in order to allow them to squander their hard earned pension money!

When we arrived at the “desert” (not a true desert but rather a remnant of a sandy delta of the Assiniboine River), two covered wagons both drawn by a matched team of beautiful , well-mannered Belgian horses awaited our arrival for a tour.

Mere words seem so inadequate to describe the beauty of the plants and the landscape of this “Manitoba Gem”. A part of this tour included a visit to the “Devils Punch Bowl” where “the sand slips and slides down a bowl shaped depression into an ever moving, eerie pool of blue green water”. A veritable visual smorgasbord and a photographer’s delight.

Following our visit to this tranquil and peaceful place, we continued on to the village of Glenboro, “Home of Sara, the Camel”. Here we visited the “Burrough of the Glen Museum” which housed many artifacts pertinent to Glenboro and area.

Continued on the next page

CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers’ Association June Slobodian

T

he Retired Women Teacher’s Association of Manitoba held their Fall Luncheon and Fashion Show on October 2, 2014. Louise Burton, our own Fashion Coordinator, conscripted 15 RWTAM members to show Nygard’s fall fashions.

Pianist Charlotte Stetch accompanied the models as they strutted their stuff on the runway. Special thanks to

our beautiful models: Eleanor Schultz; Mary Pankiw; Rosemary Sharness, Barbara Drouin, Brenda McConnell, Amy Eisner, Sandra Cerqueira, Dorothy Young, Pat Johnson; Nancy Fennell, Sylvia Semeniuk, Donna Majnusz, Mary Zadorozny, Orysia Jackson and Jean Lloyd.

New members were welcomed.

Everyone received a discount certificate from Nygard, and

several lucky ladies received door prizes.

Our December luncheon will be a sit down turkey dinner on December 11 at 11:30 a.m. Place: Masonic Temple at 420 Corydon Avenue. Entertainment: “Sisters

By Choice”.

All retired women teachers are invited to attend. Phone June Slobodian: 237-4511 for more details.

Southwest Assiniboine (continued from previous page) Prior to leaving Glenboro, we assembled at “Sara’s Statue” for the “mandatory” group picture.

At this point in our tour we were ready for the final leg of our journey which consisted of a visit to the Sisiweske Nuseum located in the village of Wawanesa (originally known as Sisiweske,

the Cree word for “light through the trees”). Once again, artifacts featuring the history of this community, including those of the Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, were viewed with a great deal of interest.

And. . .as all good tours should end. . .we enjoyed a delicious and

relaxing supper (dinner) at the well-known “Kurt’s Schnitzel House Restaurant” in downtown Wawanesa.

Plans are already underway for another tour in 2015.

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Senior’s Advocacy Forum Lorraine Forrest

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n October 23, from noon until four, the Winnipeg Retired Teachers Chapter hosted a Seniors’ Advocacy Forum at The Good Neighbours’ Active Living Centre on Henderson Highway The event was sponsored by the Education Advocacy Committee of R.T.A.M working in partnership with the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres (M.A.S.C.) and Age Friendly Manitoba.

The organizing committee consisted of Peggy Prendergast, R.T.A.M. board member, Connie Newman, Executive Director of Senior Centres, Cath McFarlane, Community Facilitator of the River East Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (W.R.H.A.) and myself as President of the hosting chapter.

Thompson, Dauphin and Portage La Prairie retired teacher

20 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

chapters had already presented similar events and had found them well received by their communities. The forums were available to ALL seniors in the area. Our forum focused on the areas of Elmwood, River East and Transcona. Working with Cath McFarlane of the area’s W.R.H.A. was excellent! Cath knew the area well, was well connected with all the Senior groups and had access to any speakers needed.

A poster was created by a professional person and between volunteers from the Retired Teachers of Winnipeg and staff from the Regional Health Authority, posters went up throughout the areas. We found that no grocery store chains had any place to put up posters, community clubs only displayed their own activities, but all the churches, senior centres and se-

nior blocks were very interested in displaying the posters. Information was also put in the Good Neighbour’s Newsletter.

We served lunch to thirteen speakers and forty-two participants. Kildonan East Collegiate culinary students made lasagna while the salad and garlic bread was made by Good Neighbours.

Participants paid five dollars to register and an additional three dollars was subsidized by RTAM for lunch. Participants received RTAM bags, note books and pens and glass cleaners. Tables were set up with helpful information for seniors.

The program was filled with information for seniors in the targeted area, From the Access Centre a Team Manager and a Community Housing Coordinator provided two sessions on Home Care and Housing Continued on the next page

CHAPTER REPORTS

RTAM - Dauphin Chapter

Members of the Dauphin Chapter volunteered at the Alzheimer Coffee Break at Corinna’s on Main, on September 11, 2014.

Senior’s Advocacy Forum (continued from previous page) Options for Seniors. Speakers from the Good Neighbour’s Active Living Centre, the Elmwood East Kildonan Active Living Centre, the Transcona Council for Seniors, the River East Council for Seniors and the Healthy Aging Resource Team (H.A.R.T.) each had five minutes to talk about what their group had to offer seniors. Susan Crighton, a Consultant from the Manitoba Government and the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat spoke about “It’s Not Right –

Neighbours, friends and families for older adults. “ We, as an executive, have not debriefed together yet, but the evaluations were certainly very positive. The structure of the day should probably be changed so people do not have to sit for long periods of time.

As part of the organizing committee, I found it great to be working with people from the W.R.H.A. and local Senior groups. This area of the city has many resources for seniors, but

all seniors are not aware of what is available to them.

It is hoped that other Winnipeg Chapters will also get involved and put on a similar event customized for their area. It is an excellent way to reach out and be involved in the community. I’m sure that Peggy Prendergast, who is a delight to work with, will be in touch with other chapters. Peggy is a very dedicated member of RTAM’s board who is passionate about issues for seniors!

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Thompson Retired Teachers’ Association Joan Dawson

O

n September 3, 2014,Thompson chapter of RTAM (TARE) took advantage of a district wide in-service to bring cake to celebrate RTAM’s 25th anniversary.

The cake was well received as were the retired teachers who stayed to visit during the coffee break.

Did You Know That The Lake Winnipeg Coast Guard Is Directed From Victoria?

Gary Finley, Co-Chair

Elizabeth Kozak, Riaan McKee Patrick M

M

embers in attendance at the Van Isles Chapter of RTAM’s “Party on the Harbour” were asked if we knew where Gimli was. Surprise! Surprise! We all knew!

We were surprised, however, to find out that Lake Winnipeg is under the Regional Operations Centre, Western Region (Victoria) of the Canadian Coast

22 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

Site of the “Party on the Harbour”

Hildi Banting, Bill and Suzanne Adkins, David, Mithal and Eileen Patel

Guard. Rhian McKee, Fleet Planning Operations Officer gave an interesting presentation of the Canadian Coast Guard followed by a tour of the helicopter base, right next door to 21 Dallas Road - the site of the party.

The 28 members in attendance would like to thank Elizabeth Kozak for providing us with the hospitality room and balcony of

her condo building, overlooking beautiful Victoria Harbour what a location for a Party! She also arranged for the catering by a local Chinese restaurant and by all accounts the food was fabulous! Ps. There was not a mosquito to be found! (Ouch, only a former Manitoban would be so mean as to share that bit of trivia!)

Louise Burton

M

embers of the RWTA enjoyed a fall bus tour along “The French Trail in Southern Manitoba” on September 24, 2014. After a stop at the new Bothwell Cheese Factory we drove to St. Pierre-Jolys where we had an interesting guided tour of the museum built in 1900 as a teaching

convent, the Cabane à Sucre and Maison Goulet. The latter is a typical Métis style home built on the Crow Wing Trail, an historical trade route which connected the Red River Settlement with St. Paul, Minnesota in the 1800s. In St. Malo everyone enjoyed a delicious French style lunch which included tourtiére

and maple sugar pie before visiting the beautiful St. Malo church. Before returning home we stopped in Rosenort for an afternoon coffee break.

Thank you to Bessie Marie Hill for all her hard work in organizing this informative trip.

To Hell with the Bells Viriginia Braid (one of the original three To Hell With the Bell group)

I

n June, 2002, three teachers from R.W. Bobby Bend School in Stonewall retired at the same time. They decided that on the first day of school in September they would meet for brunch. Not breakfast because they did not want to wake up early as they had done for most of their teaching lives. They said, “To Hell With the Bells,” no more living according to the clock. They were retired and would enjoy life on their own time. Well, twelve years later, the group, known as the “To Hell with the Bells” group is now twenty-nine people strong and at least ten more individuals will be joining the group in the next few years. They meet for brunch/lunch and sometimes dinner about four times a year. In the summer they have ventured out to member’s cottages for fun times in the sun. Bobby Bend School has a reputation for wonderful, delicious potluck affairs, and the “To Hell with

the Bells” gang still holds up that tradition by having at least one potluck event at a member’s home each year. The group is composed of teachers, principals, superintendents, secretarial and para-professional staff. There are a few gentlemen, (custodians, principals and teachers), who are considered de facto members of the group as they not too keen on attending the luncheons with so many ladies.

The criteria for membership is simple: one must have worked at Bobby Bend School before 2002 and be retired. If you fit that description, you are given a small

bell on a string to keep and you are notified by e-mail about “To Hell with the Bells” activities.

Not all members come to each occasion every time, (after all they are retired and may be out of the country or touring somewhere in Canada), but they all keep in contact.

What about the staff who have worked at Bobby Bend since 2002? Well, we hope they start their own “To Hell with the Bells” group! It is a good way to keep in touch, keep up-to-date on educational issues, reminisce and just enjoy the pleasures of retirement.

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CHAPTER REPORTS

Retired Women Teachers’ Association Fall Outing

Have you planned for your digital assets?

Vaugh Wadelius

W

e won’t be here forever, but there are some aspects of our existence that will be around for a while unless you have planned to deal with them. You may know who will inherit your property, your jewellery and the family heirlooms, but not many of us think about or even plan what will happen to our digital estate. After we’ve passed away, our computer files and email and social media accounts will still be here. Ask yourself “Will your family will be able to figure out how to deactivate your digital accounts?” Not sure? Here’s what you need to know.

What are digital assets?

Almost everyone has an email account, but many of us have more digital assets - photos, music-storage accounts (iTunes), various online accounts, email, social media sites and cloud accounts. These are often overlooked digital assets the average person has. Most of us have a computer, Internet service and a smartphone but we don’t think twice about what will happen to them if we were to die.

How can you protect your family?

The most basic advice is to ensure that those who survive have awareness of the deceased’s passwords. Such a list will have to be continuously updated, maybe kept in a safety deposit box or

24 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

in a secure but accessible place at home. They’ll need to know the various data and online accounts related to the passwords.

What info should you list on paper?

You may want to consult an estate planner or a lawyer who can speak to digital assets to make sure you’ve covered all bases, but here are some basic account assets to keep in mind : • Social media accounts (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr), their handles or account names and passwords • Email accounts and their respective passwords, including email accounts you don’t use very often.

• iTunes and Google Play.

• Online banking.

• Retail websites you have accounts with; websites where you’re a seller, such as Amazon, eBay and Craigslist.

• Where your digital photographs, video and other digital files are kept - and how to access them.

Should your will include digital-estate details?

Yes, because a lack of detail can cause difficulties for those left behind. Don’t gloss over how you want your digital assets to pass when you die, since much of your financial and personal information is found online - and not anyplace else - so it’s best to

be as detailed as you can. What happens with the Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn? Once you’re gone, you won’t be posting, tweeting or updating your own feeds, but others can still post to your walls and tweet at you. No agency automatically steps in to deactivate or memorialize your accounts.

Different social media networks have varying ways of allowing accounts to be deactivated, and there’s no standard operating procedure among them.

Facebook will allow an account to be memorialized. Twitter allows for deactivation by an authorized person. LinkedIn will remove the profile of a deceased person if you get in touch with the company. With LinkedIn, you don’t have to be an authorized representative of the deceased to file a request for review.

Can you rely on online advice?

Don’t believe everything you read online. Keep in mind that what you learn online about digital-estate planning might be intended for an audience in the United States or another country, so it may not apply to you.

Canada has yet to enact specific laws with respect to digital assets and wills. The best way around this is to seek a professional opinion from a lawyer or an estate planner.

Join The Board - You Won’t Be Bored!

Alex Boyes

T

he Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba has over 9000 members and it is growing.

Our volunteer board of directors consists of a possible total membership of 20; four officer positions, the appointed PAST President and 15 additional directors-at-large. One might suppose that the competition for these important positions would be highly sought after. Such has not been the case in recent years.

At each AGM, elections are held and often many of the positions are filled by acclamation. That, in and of itself, is not a problem.

When board members are fulfilling their roles with integrity and accountability, there is little need to change.

What is being postulated here is that more RTAM members should give some consideration to putting their names forward for the next AGM set to be held in May, 2015, in Portage la Prairie.

Why ???

Your RTAM works for you in many “mysterious” ways. Not really! Although KIT is the primary way of keeping in touch with all of us, RTAM committees and sub-committees are at work behind the scenes all the time.

The Pension Committee is constantly monitoring the ever changing pension landscape through its contact with other provincial retired teacher organizations, especially ACERCART (Canadian Association of Retired Teachers). Equally important is the role RTAM plays in assuring that the outcome of COLA serves the best interests of RTAM. The Benefits Committee attempts to secure, annually, the best rates and benefits for those enrolled in its various programs.

Recently, an Ad Hoc committee completed a study about the amount of volunteer time RTAM members give to their respective communities. You will, and should, be impressed.

Watch KIT for more information.

There are many other RTAM committees in action: Educational Advocacy/Scholarship;Public Relations; Bylaws & Policy; KIT; Membership, to name just a few.

RTAM is cognizant of your time and other commitments.

If you become a board member, no matter where you reside, your travel, meal and accommodation costs are covered. This would apply to you if you decide to

become a board or committee member. You get to meet and mingle with other RTAM members from across the province.

Gender and regional representation on any board are important factors to consider.

Therefore, it is important to have potential candidates from as many parts of our province as possible and representative of gender. In addition, membership diversity is an asset to any volunteer board. New members from different areas of MB are more apt to bring fresh ideas to the membership mix.

When you consider that our membership in RTAM costs each of us $2.25 each month, we are “ getting a good bang for our buck.” More than that, we are looking out for one another through our many activities.

That’s a good thing.

So, when the edition of KIT comes out asking for RTAM members to consider becoming either a board/committee member, do give it some serious thought.

You won’t be bored, you might get on Board!

CHEERS.

RTAM.MB.CA

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Celebrating Chapter Members Denise Payment, Wellness Committee Member

D

uring the spring and summer RTAM ran a survey on retired teachers and volunteering. Over 1400 people filled out the survey. The results were smashing: 82% of retired teachers give back to their chapters, to their communities, to sports events, to their churches and more.

Recently, all Manitoba RTAM Chapter presidents received a letter informing them of a $250 incentive grant. This is a yearly

grant to be used at the grassroots level. The Wellness Committee is nudging all chapters to make use of this resource and reward their members for all that they do. Sometimes a thank you is warranted or some recognition because we all know RETIRED TEACHERS MAKE THE BEST VOLUNTEERS. If any Chapter needs ideas and support to organize a wellness event please contact Peggy Prendergast at the RTAM office

or ppeggy@mts.net. The Wellness Committee is available to support you in whatever way we can that will be seen as a reward to your members.

Also, did you know that funds are available for new chapters that are in the making? Contact Wayne Hughes for more information.

Celebrate your members. Plan an event. These retirees will appreciate it. Be sure to report the event by submitting an article to KIT along with pictures.

Winners of AGM, 2013 Draw

I

t was a big surprise to win the Elkhorn gift Certificate at the 2014 AGM. We enjoyed the experience very much - especially the spa package.

Elkhorn is a great resort and in a wonderful location.

Thank you very much.

-Bea and Dale Shantz

Editor’s Note: Bea is the lady who was the spearhead for getting the plantings done in Thompson for our $250.00 grant from RTAM. TARE/ RTAM had two areas - one at the local library and one by a restaurant. Both looked wonderful and both had signage.

She and her husband Dale also organize the 10,000 Villages Sale in Thompson.

26 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

Bea and Dale Shantz at Elkhorn Resort.

LIFE MEMBERS A current RTAM member who reaches the age of ninety (90) shall be granted a Life Membership in RTAM.

Clear Lake Golf Tournament

SEPTEMBER, 2014 Jean (Dulcie) Anderson, Carman, MB Margaret E. Heise, Hamiota, MB Alfred Emil Klein, Ste. Rose du Lac, MB Doris F. Line, Winnipeg, MB Catherine J. McDonald, Leduc, AB

IN MEMORIAM SEPTEMBER, 2014 Marie Lucie Carmelle Dumontier, Belair, MB Robert R. Simms, Brandon, MB Cynthia Eleanor Walkes, Winnipeg, MB June D. Gislason, Winnipeg, MB Alice Mary Stewart, Winnipeg, MB Henry Ens, Winnipeg, MB Raman Patel, Tomball, TX, USA Elizabeth Anne Wetick, Ethelbert, MB J. Leo McGinn, Kelowna, BC Lois M. Anderson, Winnipeg, MB Patricia R. Winser, Winnipeg, MB Alfred Brooks, Winnipeg, MB

AUGUST, 2014 Ronald Phillipe Lagace, Winnipeg, MB Glen Curtis Brooks, Gimli, MB Murray Golub, Winnipeg, MB Randall Garth McGunigal, Winnipeg, MB Leona Florence Painchaud, St. Eustache, MB Beatrice I. Brady, Winnipeg, MB Nancy Gurr, Virden, MB Kathleen May Staub, Winnipeg, MB Helen M. Smith, Ninga, MB Shirley Anne Klein, Ste. Rose du Lac, MB Dolores L. Hebert, Winnipeg, MB Elizabeth M. Ilott, Winnipeg, MB Betty Oliver, Portage la Prairie, MB Michael Huska, Winnipeg, MB

Fred Stevenson is the presenter. First is Brian Franklin 2 - Brian Patterson 3- Cam Hotel 4- Don Curtis, 5- Karen McKinnon 6 - First Flight winners - Bill Moody,Don Taylor, Fred Stevenson, Ray Hurd 7 - Second Flight winners Dennis Smith, Karen McKinnon, Faun Scott, Glennis Scott. 8 - Larry McDougal.

O

n Tuesday, September 2, the 2014 Ye Olde Rusty Classic Golf Tournament was held at Clear Lake Golf Course in Riding Mountain National Park. Even though the weather attempted to dampen their spirits: a field of 152 golfers enjoyed the day and comradeship of fellow retirees. Golf was followed by dinner at the Elkhorn Resort. Look for next year’s tournament to be held at the beautiful and challenging Minnewasta Golf and Country Club in Morden, Manitoba.

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Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers Of Manitoba 10th Annual Reunion Edith Alexiuk; Photos by Ed Arndt

O

n July 10, 2014, our 10th annual reunion was held at the Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg, MB. The theme for this occasion was “Create a Legacy, While Filling a Gap.” The guest of honour was Dr. Louisa Loeb, a renowned educator in Manitoba. During World War II and after, many young people just out of high school became permit teachers. Some had a six-week training course, some had no training at all.

Louisa felt that these teachers received little recognition. She then proceeded to organize a few

28 n RTAM KIT Winter 2014

of them ten years ago for a reunion.

Unfortunately, her health declined shortly after and she was forced to have others carry on as a committee, which is still in existence today. She also compiled a book of individual teacher’s experiences.

A banner was made to commemorate the event. A picture of the present committee was taken in front of it, including our guest speaker Deanne Crothers, MLA for St. James, representing the Minister of Education, James Allum.

A sit down meal was served.

A boisterous sing-song of old familiar favourites took place,

led by Marie and Henri Enns, with accompaniment on an autoharp. Many intriguing stories of permit teaching were revealed on the open mic. There were several prize draws. The winner for coming the farthest was Ed Arndt from Virden, MB. This is in contrast to past years when many people came from out of province, but age and illness seem to be a factor now.

It was a heartwarming day.

Louisa was happy to be with us and participated. Sadly, one of our long time members, the Rev. Keith Boughton, passed away two weeks after the reunion.

Manitoba Teachers’ College 1958-59 Reunion

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CLASSIFIEDS Normal School Class of ‘54-’55 60th Anniversary June 2 and 3, 2015 @ Holiday Inn West Winnipeg, MB

If you did not receive the first mail out and wish to receive information on the forthcoming Celebrations, please contact: Phyllis (Maxfield) Meseyton 55-18th St. SW Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 2X8 (204) 857-5891 / phyllis9@mymts.net or Fern (Finnen) Bamford - Box132 Manitou,MB R0G 1G0 / (204) 242-2224

Class of 1956-57 58th Normal School Reunion

Thursday, May 21, 2015 Portage la Prairie, MB Canad Inns, Main Floor 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Smorg OR Soup & Sandwich Bar Cost to each individual Book exchange - bring a favourite and exchange with a person of your choice Registration - 11:30 a.m. - $5.00 Contacts: Janice Kelly, Winnipeg: 1-204-831-8643 Jeanette Moran, Winnipeg: 1-204-697-3386 Phyllis Crosson, Brandon: 1-204-726-4406 Bernice McMahon , Delta , BC: 1-604-946-4928

CUBA – ‘Spanish Studies in Cuba’ (Havana)

$2,500.00 CAD for 4 wks. Hotel with breakfast and dinner, tuition fee. (Air fare not included). 250-478-0494 ssic@telus.net / http://spanishstudiesincuba.ca

WINNIPEGOSIS 100th CELEBRATION July 10, 11 & 12, 2015 (Save the date!)

The organizing committee cordially invites all retired former teachers of Winnipegosis area schools to help celebrate the village centennial. For further info: www.winnipegosis100th.com

WANTED TO RENT

A part or whole of a Winnipeg garage. Guy Hansen at 204 283 4265 or guydhansen@hotmail.com

The Manitoba Teachers’ Society

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

The Manitoba Teachers’ Society seeks Call Mireille Theriault at 204-888-7961 ext photos, artifacts and 354 or email mtheriault@mbteach.org other records of teaching and Society activities from 1919 to the Winter 2014 30 n RTAM KIT present.

60th Reunion

Sir John Franklin Public School Kindergarten class of 1954-1955 September 7 and 8, 2015.

Contact: Walter Badger: 204 467 5838 badgerw@mymts.net Derek Legge: 204 837 1290/dlegge@mts.net

DR. LOUISA LOEB

PERMIT TEACHERS OF MANITOBA 11th Annual Reunion Viscount Gort Hotel 1670 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB Thursday, July 9, 2015 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Registration: 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

For further information, contact Edith Alexiuk, Registrar - 204-256-6484

TEACHERS: BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCE you will enjoy & never forget in an EAST AFRICA COUNTRY Contact Ann Predy, apredy@gmail.com , 780 752 4127

Juba Christian Academy in South Sudan

Requires a kindergarten and elementary school teacher.

April Habeger/admin@jcasouthsudan.org

Ye Ole Rusty Classic

Minnewasta Golf & Country Club (Morden) will be hosting the Retired Teachers’ Golf Tournament on September 8, 2015. Watch for the Official Entry Form in the June Issue of KIT and on the website. Entries will be accepted only by mail on the Official Entry Form.

ORDER coins/notes

RONALEA COLLECTIBLES, Box 130K, Plumas, MB R0J 1P0

Neepwa Area Retired Teachers’ Association (NARTA)

has launched a new Bursary Fund to support graduating students from Neepawa Area Collegiate Institute, Carberry Collegiate and William Morton Collegiate of Gladstone. You can make a difference. This is your opportunity to support education in your community. To make a donation: Beautiful Plains Community Foundation.

204.476.2681 / bpcfinc@mymts.net

Scottsdale, AZ: condos for rent

www.29desertsunescape.com or 1.519.720.0267 or kathy. robins@sympatico.ca

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Volunteer Opportunity English Conversation Circle Facilitator Program for Older Adult Immigrants PURPOSE: To assist participants in the program to achieve greater fluency and confidence in the English language through conversation in an informal group setting.

save

Duties/Responsibilities:

400

up to $

• Facilitate the conversation group sessions using resource kits developed by the program.

• Attend and participate in the English Conversation Facilitators’ orientation and training sessions • Meet with EAL participants on a regular basis as assigned.

• Initiate and stimulate conversation during the sessions.

Make every effort to involve each member equally.

• Provide participants with encouragement and constructive feedback.

• Take group attendance for record, and maintain regular communication with the supervisor to provide session updates and for consultation regarding issues or concerns as needed.

per person*

Mention Offer Code: KAR2 - AX1- 918

Qualifications: Must be culturally sensitive.

• Interest in working with people from different cultures and with seniors.

• Leadership skills and experience in group work.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Friendly and welcoming manner

Workshops / peersharing sessions on working in English as an Additional Language (EAL) program are provided.

Spectacular South Africa

starting at

13 Days • 21 Meals • April 20, 2015

$2,699* p.p.

The Complete South Pacific

starting at

27 Days • 38 Meals • April 16, 2015

$6,799* p.p.

Reflections of Italy

starting at

Supervised by assigned EAL Specialists.

10 Days • 14 Meals • April 22, 2015

$2,649* p.p.

2 hours per week (90 minute session & prep time).

10 weeks commitment preferred.

Classic Danube

starting at

11 Days • 23 Meals • April 20, 2015

$3,349* p.p.

Contact Maureen Keelan at 204-956-6440 Email: mkeelan@ageopportunity.mb.ca

Tropical Costa Rica

starting at

9 Days • 14 Meals • April 13, 2015

$1449* p.p.

Shades of Ireland

starting at

10 Days • 13 Meals • May 5, 2015

$2,299* p.p.

For more information, call your local travel professional

For updates, visit RTAM at rtam.mb.ca

*Rates are land only, per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. 1Offer is valid on new retail bookings only made between 11/15/14 - 12/31/14 for travel between 11/15/14 - 4/30/16 on any tour. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offer is not valid on group or existing bookings or combinable with any other offer. Offer savings of up to $400 per person is calculated as follows (all savings listed are per person, land only): Europe savings of $200; Africa savings of $200; Australia & New Zealand savings of $400; and Tropical Costa Rica savings of $100. Other restrictions may apply; call for details. Mention Promo Code: KAR2-AX1-918 Travel Industry Council of Ontario Reg. # 3206405; B.C. Reg. # 23337

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Voluntary Benefits for RTAM Members.

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

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

Travel Insurance with Trip Cancellation & Interruption Additional Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Extended Health Care with Elder Care Dental Care Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance Term Life Insurance Home Insurance

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

1.877.989.2600 | www.johnson.ca/rtam 11120 – 178 Street NW, Edmonton, AB. T5S 1P2

RTAM sponsors pre-retirement seminars for teachers each spring.

RTAM Plans are administered by Johnson Inc. Premier Travel, Health and Dental are underwritten by Desjardins Financial Security. Travel Insurance and Stand Alone Trip Cancellation Insurance are underwritten by RSA Canada.

Home insurance is available through Johnson Inc. a licensed insurance intermediary. Policies are primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company. Eligibility requirements, limitations and exclusions may apply. CAT.05.2014