new pictures--new pdf News & Views Contents Table of Volume 17 Number 3 Spring 2009 COLUMNS 11 22 FEATURES Editor’s Musings 2 Travel—A Journey to 3 President’s Message Israel and Jordan An Analysis of Views from This Ron Liepert’s Side of an Orb 13 Proposed New From the Branches Seniors’ Drug Plan Ponoka & District Retired Teachers’ 4 Association 5 24 When Universal What Are We Programs Are 15 Doing Now? Undermined, Reflections on None of Us Is Safe ‘Positive Aging’ Scholarship Winner 26 ARTA Pension Committee 10 16 Impact of In Memoriam Pharmaceutical 7 28 Strategy Best Doctors “Brownie”—Remembering 17 Geneva Corabelle Anderson (née Brown) 20 A View of Provincial Government Strategies: 8 Politics Happy New Health and Have Seniors Become Wellness Year 29 the Enemy? 9 19 Notices 31 Executive Letters 30 to the Editor Classifieds Affinity Program Secretary’s Report for Members
News and Views is published four times a year by the Alberta Retired Teachers’ Association (ARTA). Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to #409, 11010-142 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 2R1. Tel.: 780-447-9474; Alberta only: 1-800-232-7208 ext 474; fax: 1-780-447-0613; e-mail: [email protected]; website: www.albertarta.org Do you like a Contributions to News and Views to the editor: David J. Flower, #409, 11010 – 142 Street NW, challenge? Edmonton, AB T5N 2R1. Check page 25 for Printing by Central Web, 16940 – 110 Avenue NW, Edmonton T5P 1G9 more information
AR-ARTA-12e Greetings from the President
Views from This Side of an Orb Paul E Boisvert
“You can complain because roses its members. It behooves ARTA to It is with a heavy heart that I choose have thorns or you can rejoice continually strive to be an effective to conclude my column in this issue because thorns have roses.” element in voicing the concerns of News and Views with a brief com- —Ziggy retired teachers have in matters mentary about the state of democracy that impact on the quality of their in our beloved Canada and the gen- Without a doubt, the year 2008 lives. Imagine the influence we will eral malaise of life for so many of will be remembered for the many exert on the powers that be when the world’s citizens. I am sure that I innovations that have occurred in we are able to demonstrate that am not alone when I state that there our association. Given the many we are speaking on behalf of the are times recently when those of us favourable responses to the enriched overwhelming majority of Alberta’s brought up according to the tradi- format of News and Views produced retired teachers! tional moral code of the western under the very capable direction of world may wonder whether our soci- When ARTA made the recruitment our editor, David Flower, assisted ety has lost sight of the difference of our fellow retired teachers a pri- by the office staff and publication between right and wrong. It seems mary objective for 2009, it was not consultant, Wes Covington, and the that what is missing is not so much simply to say that we have a larger Communication Committee, 2009 the sense of morality as the sense of membership. Rather we want our begins very well for ARTA. shame that once restrained people colleagues to be fully aware that from doing things that were deemed I cannot stress too greatly the we are here working on issues that disreputable. Still, there is comfort dedication and keen interest of need to be addressed so that justice in the thought that the news media our committee members in assur- prevails for all in the years that are would not go to the trouble of report- ing that ARTA is fulfilling our a justified reward for services ren- ing cases of moral and ethical mission in providing services to dered to the citizens of Alberta. dereliction if people did not see any- thing wrong about them. I must then assume that if morality were really It does not hurt to take a hard look at yourself from time to time dead, then immorality would not be and this should help get you started. During a visit to a mental shocking! It would not be news! In institution, a visitor asked the director what the criterion was that his book The Shack William Young defined whether or not a patient should be institutionalized. (Alberta born, incidentally) writes the following response from “Papa” “Well,” said the director, “We fill up a bathtub, then we offer a (God) to a question of why there is so teaspoon, a teacup and a bucket to the patient and ask him or her much evil in the world: “Humanity’s to empty the bathtub.” inhuman treatment towards others “Oh, I understand,” said the visitor, “A normal person would use has its roots in politics, economics the bucket because it is bigger than the teaspoon or the teacup.” or religious practices...” Oftentimes “No,” said the director, “A normal person would pull the plug. works of fiction contain outstanding Do you want a bed near the window?” teachings! —Paul E Boisvert
2 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views An Analysis of Ron Liepert’s Proposed New Seniors’ Drug Plan
On December 8, 2008, Health What are the implications of this tion is questionable even for the Minister Ron Liepert announced change in policy for ARTA members general senior population. For ARTA a new drug strategy for Alberta and seniors in general? members, most of whom are draw- seniors. As of January 2010, the ing ATRF pensions, meagre as they current program for seniors over First, the elimination of drug costs may be, our own estimates are that 65, which is paid for by the gov- for those seniors with low incomes fewer than 10% will qualify because ernment and administered by Blue is applaudable. Clearly this group even though some pensions are low, Cross, will be replaced. Presently, was most vulnerable. The govern- once OAS and CPP are added in, all seniors regardless of income are ment’s program also pays the full our members will only qualify at covered for 70% of the cost of the drug costs for hospital patients, the very high levels of deductibles approved drugs on Alberta’s Drug cancer patients, those individuals listed in the table below. Once formulary after paying $25 per fighting diseases such as HIV and again middle income seniors lose prescription. Even that $25 fee those on AISH income support. even though they have paid their could be burdensome if someone In addition, there will now be a way during their working years. It was on several drugs and required program to cover catastrophic is this group, who are perhaps still renewals every few months. The drug costs for those people with trying to remain independent and program, however, was universal in rare diseases. Alberta Health Care stay in their homes, that will find it that every Alberta senior, regard- premiums have been eliminated for increasingly difficult to meet these less of income, was covered under all Albertans and that helps those new costs on top of rising costs for the plan. retirees in the 55–64 age group. everything else. For these changes the government The new strategy is based upon the deserves credit. Third, when Mr. Liepert argued for elimination of drug costs for low this plan he suggested that, “There income seniors but requires those Second, as incomes increase, how- should be no sense of entitlement seniors above a government estab- ever, and remember this is on gross when you turn 65. There should lished threshold to pay additional and not net income, seniors will certainly be programs in place to payments that were not required pay more. Although the Minister assist those in need.” This kind of under the previous program. The estimated that 60% of Albertans statement is laden with this govern- following table illustrates the way over 65 would see their drug costs ment’s political ideology. Linda this works: drop or stay the same, this assump- Somerville, a retired Edmonton
SINGLE SENIORS SENIOR FAMILIES Single Senior Deductible Family Senior Deductible Income Range Income Range 1. $0 – $21,325 $0 1. $0 – $42,650 $0 2. $21,326 – $31,325 $149 – $439 2. $42,651 – $52,650 $299 – $737 3. $31,326 – $41,325 $658 – $1,157 3. $52,651 – $62,650 $1,106 – $1,754 4. $41,326 – $51,325 $1,446 – $2,156 4. $62,651 – $72,650 $2,193 – $3,051 5. $51,326 – $149,999 $2,515 – $7,500 5. $72,651 – $149,999 $3,560 – $7,500 6. $150,000 and over $7,500 6. $150,000 and over $7,500
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 3 teacher, suggests, in an article that with increased monthly premiums. the productivity, income and wealth first appeared in the Edmonton Middle income earners, outside of of Albertans, current health care Journal, that means testing of a plan like ours, will either have expenditures are affordable and medical services is not the way great difficulty in finding a private sustainable. Moreover, Albertans to reduce income inequality. That plan for seniors or, because of pre- could spend much more on health should be done through a progres- existing conditions, will be ineligible care and remain low compared to sive tax system rather the flat tax for any private plan. other jurisdictions in Canada and system in Alberta, which favours abroad.” Lastly, Ron Liepert suggested that the wealthy at the expense of the health care is becoming increas- A final point in this regard. Paul middle class. ingly unsustainable because of Krugman, the 2008 winner of the Fourth, the Alberta government has increasing costs. With this new Nobel Prize for Economics, in an changed the rules for retirees. When program he is saving $30 million article from the New York Times they planned their retirement they per year. There is no question that News Service discussed ways to expected that the drug program in health care costs will increase with stimulate any economy at times like place would continue to be there. the expected demographic bulge of these. Rather than focusing on tax With fixed incomes, many cannot baby boomers entering their senior cuts, (or in Alberta’s case, worry- adjust to this change in course. years let alone the normal costs ing about the effects of government associated with new technology and spending on future tax payments Fifth, those of our members who are drugs. by the wealthy), he suggests that a participants in ARTA’s non-profit better way to stimulate is not only sponsored Benefits Program will at A recent report from the Parkland to spend on “shovel ready” public least have a plan that will cover 80% Institute agrees that health care infrastructure for the immediate of their drug costs. When govern- costs will rise by 30% over the next stimulus effect but also to spend ment paid 70% of the cost of most twenty years. However, it goes on to on health care, which takes a little drugs as first payer that meant that point out that although this increase longer but also meets a great pub- they had about 94% coverage for is a lot, it can be accomplished by lic need and helps the economy as most drugs. Now, instead of paying annual increases of 1.32% above well. What Ron Liepert’s plan does 6% of the remainder, they will pay inflation and population growth. is take money out of the pockets of 20%. So, even for current plan par- Further, in the last decade Alberta’s seniors who would otherwise spend ticipants there is an increased cost. GDP has grown by 4.2%, which is it at businesses within their own Further, since the ARTA Plan will three times the 1.32% required to communities on their many other have to cover the full 80% of the maintain current health care ser- needs. It is when people on low or cost of prescribed drugs, that will vices. According to Greg Flanagan, modest incomes have additional mean an additional cost to the plan the author of the Parkland report, spending power that economic and that can only be accomplished “Clearly, from a GDP measure of stimuli really work!
Scholarship Winner
Committee members met on August 26, 2008, to review the applica- tions for the ARTA-Johnson Scholarship. Of the 46 applications, 27 qualified to be considered by the committee. Thanks to adsin News and Views and to promotion by Branch presidents we had a record number of applications. The winner of the ARTA-Johnson Scholarship and the Nykolay Hrynyk Memorial Scholarship is Chelsey Tennant from Chiliwack B.C. ($1750). Other scholarship winners are Patrick Staples of Calgary who is studying music in California ($1250), Morgan Bergo of Ardmore ($1250) and Kathleen Hernder of Edmonton ($1250).
4 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views When Universal Programs Are Undermined, None of Us Is Safe
By Lynda Somerville
Who can argue with the wealthy per prescription.) Surely income insurance against these eventuali- paying their fair share? Certainly disparities should be addressed ties. When such costs are shared by not me. That is why we have a through taxation, not through the everyone, they are affordable. progressive income tax system in health care system. Canada. But not in Alberta. Here Surely, the same is true of health In addition, Liepert has refused any we have a flat tax system, a system care. When we are healthy, we pay further government involvement in that disproportionately benefits the taxes all our lives to help care for opening long-term care beds in a truly wealthy at the expense of the other people so that when we are ill system where at present there are middle class, and a system that or frail, those other people will care over 1,100 seniors urgently in need costs the Alberta government bil- for us. Pharmaceutical coverage is of such beds on a waiting list in lions in lost tax revenues. perhaps the most significant com- Alberta. Instead, he plans to aban- ponent of health care for a majority Now, however, Health Minister don the regulated fee system for of seniors—and certainly the fastest Ron Liepert wants to do away with long-term care beds to attract for- growing in terms of cost. Suddenly, universality of drug coverage for profit operators to build the needed however, Liepert, instead of nego- Alberta’s seniors and introduce a capacity. That is, desperately tiating lower drug prices through kind of progressive tax system—a ill, cognitively impaired, or frail central purchasing, has pushed all sliding scale ranging from $149 seniors—or their families—will those costs onto a narrow group—the deductible for someone with an have to pay whatever the market 40% of the seniors population with income just over $21,325 a year to will bear. The only alternative is an incomes above $21,325. And he is a maximum deductible of $7,500 already deregulated assisted-living doing the same to the most vulner- on an income of $150,000. At this facility, where no nursing care is able of all citizens, those requiring point, Liepert reverts to a flat tax available; where every service, from long-term care. Mid-game, he so that if a senior has $150,000 in toileting to feeding, carries a fee; has changed the rules, throwing income or $2 million or $10 mil- and where, apparently, the Canada seniors’ retirement planning into lion, he has the same deductible. Health Act does not apply. a cocked hat. Is he suggesting that The deductible tax, remember, is Liepert claims that seniors should health care coverage stops once one paid out of after-tax dollars. not have a sense of “entitlement” turns sixty-five? Or does he plan to simply because they have turned extend his reasoning to health care And the deductible is less about 65. Would he also say that school more broadly? taxing wealthy seniors than it is children (and their “wealthy” about taxing the sick, particularly Liepert seems to view public services parents) should not have a sense of those with extensive medical needs paid for by tax dollars as some sort entitlement to public education sim- requiring high on-going drug costs. of charity doled out, at government ply because they turned six? Should whim, to the needy. Means testing The ostensible reason for this move “wealthy” citizens not have a sense is demeaning and divisive—and is so that drugs can be fully cov- of entitlement to police service coming to a local pharmacy and a ered for low-income seniors (those simply because they are robbed? nursing home near you. below $21,325), a desirable end, Should they not have a sense of but paid for with 30 million dollars entitlement to fire service simply Liepert does not seem to understand saved from the current coverage of because their house burns down? that citizens pay taxes based on essentially middle-income seniors. Most of us will never be robbed income as part of a social contract. (At present, all seniors pay a 30% and never lose our houses to fire. Workers and retirees, for example, deductible, to a maximum of $25 But all of us pay taxes as a kind of pay taxes to support public and
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 5 post-secondary education for other such public services extended and That is why the universality prin- people’s children; in turn, those made truly universal—a drug plan ciple is so important. When those children will become workers who for all Albertans, long-term care beds of middle income and the wealthy then help sustain the retirees who for those who need them because no longer have a vested interest in once supported them. when we all protect each other, all the system, the system will collapse. As a retired senior, I continue to of us are protected. When some of But perhaps that is what Minister pay taxes on both my income and us are excluded from the burden of Liepert hopes. my property, and those taxes con- taxation or from the protection of tinue to support public education and universal programs, whether we are Lynda Somerville is a retired high public health care—and I am happy wealthy or poor, the social fabric school teacher who lives in Edmonton. to do so. In fact, I would be willing unravels and none of us is safe. As to pay higher taxes, taxes equal to citizens, young or old, rich or poor, First published in the Edmonton Liepert’s proposed deductible, to see we are all in this together. Journal, December 22, 2008.
An Invitation to Join Our Growing Organization
The Alberta Retired Teachers’ Association (ARTA) was formed in 1963 and has since grown to 10,000 members. With more people Who is eligible to Join? reaching retirement age, we expect this membership to grow even • Retired Teachers in all more rapidly over the next few years. Canadian Provinces We are a provincial organization with an office in Edmonton and • Retired University-College- have 15 branches across Alberta and a new satellite branch in the Technical Instructors Okanagan. • Retired School and Post- Secondary Support Staff Originally our organization served only retired teachers. In 1997, • Retired Persons drawing an we extended affiliate membership to post secondary instructors as Alberta Government Pension well. In 2008 that affiliate membership added two more groups. • Surviving Spouses of above For more information call 1-800-232-7208 ext 474, groups 780‑447‑9474 or visit our website at www.albertarta.org.
ATTENTION—All ARTA Members We have a number of Tony Roma coupons offering 10% off meals for ARTA members. They expire June 20/09. Our problem is we cannot send these coupons to all of our members because that would entail a postage charge of over $5,000 and our budget simply cannot bear the extra expense. So, we came up with an alternate way to get these coupons out to you. If you would like a coupon, mail us a stamped, self addressed envelope and we will send you one. We will honour the first 4,000 requests. When all of the coupons have been allocated, we will post a notice on ARTA’s website.
6 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Best Doctors When you need to be absolutely sure
Best Doctors connects seriously ill to take control over the final deci- a copy of the Best Doctors report Canadians and their treating physi- sion regarding his treatment and he can be forwarded to your treating cians with world renowned specialists took comfort knowing he was doing physician. Now, you and your doc- to confirm the right diagnosis and everything possible. tor have the answers you deserve to the right treatment options—with- confidently choose the most appro- out having to leave home. Visit priate next steps together. www.bestdoctorscanada.com to find How Best Doctors out more. Works When Do Best Doctors David Hull’s Story Connect Services Start and One telephone call sets it all in How Do I Apply? (In His Memory, motion. By calling Best Doctors, a May 18, 1947–Feb. 25, 2008) registered nurse will be dedicated ARTA’s Benefits Committee has developed an exclusive group ben- David, a financial advisor in to your case and will support you efit offering. It will be available to Moncton, wants his experience throughout the entire process. The ARTA members once 1000 people known by everyone…by the medical nurse will take your complete medi- enroll in this program. Already community, by insurance colleagues cal history and make sure that every almost 200 ARTA members have and by every Canadian, that there one of your questions is answered. expressed an interest in the service is an organization accessible to you Investigate since it was announced in June. Best if you(or a family member) find your Best Doctors then compiles all of Doctors services will start when 800 self in a position like his. Always your medical information, including more members express an interest. allow yourself the opportunity to make all doctors’ records and diagnostic Working collaboratively with treat- sure that your diagnosis is correct tests. A team of Harvard-trained ing doctors and specialists, Best and that you are aware of the best physicians makes an in-depth Doctors provides members with possible treatment options avail- analysis of this information. From empowerment through knowledge, able to you. This is David’s story… their initial diagnosis, the team guidance and one-on-one support. He first learned about Best Doctors selects the leading world-renowned ARTA members will be able to apply during a presentation several years peer nominated expert(s), from the for Best Doctors without belonging ago when the service was added to Best Doctors database of 50,000 to the Extended Health Care Plan. the group health plan. In January specialists, who is best qualified to The monthly fees are $3.75 for sin- 2007, he was rushed to the hospital treat your illness. The specialist(s) gle members and $5.75 for couples/ after experiencing sudden diffi- makes a final decision based on families. Note: Best Doctors is not culty speaking. At the hospital, he all your files and tests, and then typically available to individuals urgently repeated, “Best Doctors, delivers the findings and recom- over age 65. ARTA members under Best Doctors,” His neurosurgeon mendations to your nurse. age 85 will have access to this pro- agreed to work with Best Doctors gram when 1000 members enroll. specialists. Initial tests showed a Report Some conditions apply, however, lesion in his brain and a shadow on You will receive an easy-to-under- such as a six-month pre-existing his lung. Further tests confirmed stand report from Best Doctors condition limitation. There will be David had lung cancer, which had summarizing the expert doctor’s more information to come… spread to his brain. The Best Doctors findings, confirming your diagnosis report confirmed his diagnosis and and providing the best treatment To find out how this service can provided additional treatment options. Your nurse will carefully benefit you and your family, sim- options. David was empowered review all the information with you ply call Johnson Inc. toll-free at with more knowledge enabling him and answer any questions. If you wish, 1-877-989-2600.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 7 Happy New Health and Wellness Year
Well it’s January, a time for new and civic duty trying to kick-start our neighbourhoods. When asked beginnings, and a time for reflec- the economy through Boxing Day on CNN about why she was handing tion. How are you doing? If you sales, and visiting fast-food empo- out T-shirts emblazoned with “Our have the health and resources, riums, maybe it is time for you to Inauguration” at the pre- inaugural you could be dedicating your body get into battle shape for the inevi- ball that she was hosting in hon- to verifying “global warming” table spring and summer seasons of our of Barack Obama, Adrianna in one of those horrible southern grass cutting, garden planting, or Huffington eloquently and simply exposures. If not, you are probably something like golf, tennis, walk- replied, “With the number of prob- living on the leading edge of the ing, hiking or…. lems we face in this country and “global cooling” thought that is with the seriousness of them, do you In addition to the physical, it is now entering the news and views of really think one man can do it all? interesting how others are voicing talk radio. They talk about a lack We each have a job to help. It’s our what many retired teachers have of sunspots but, you might think, inauguration.” intuitively discovered, the joy of that’s obvious, when it is –28ºC, sharing with others the time and What can you do to help your com- blowing and grey. The pine beetles talents they have developed over munity, your country? may have the last word on the sub- the many years of life experience. ject. Will the forestry workers tell Remember: Be Active, Be Healthy, Teachers through ARTA branch us this summer that the critters are Be Happy! As my friend, George involvement in organizing, leading, leaving, or are they continuing to Konduc has always brought into sharing, attending, and yes, even picnic on our boreal forests? our conversations over the last playing, help one another, and their 30 years, “If you don’t have good Have you kept up with your New communities. Others are involved health, you don’t have anything.” Year’s resolutions? The gyms in the in looking after the grandchildren, Take Care and enjoy the blessing of Edmonton area are still humming working, looking after infirm each day. with new recruits zealously atoning neighbours/family. Churches using for their Christmas indiscretions of Rick Warren’s book, 40 Days of Wayne Flaska fingering Aunt Sue’s fine baking. Community, are addressing the need Health and Wellness Committee After doing your social obligations to help the less fortunate amidst
Important Notice For Our Members Online Membership Renewals and Address Change
Starting on May 1, 2009, members or prospective members will be able to pay their ARTA member- ship fee, and some branch membership fees where available, by entering our website for an online transaction by credit card. Credit card transactions will be handled through Moneris, a well-known company with a secure and professional system. In addition, members will be able to update their membership information online for such things as address changes. We will still accept application renewals and cheques by mail as we have always done but we encourage you to use the online service. Please visit our website at www.albertarta.org and have a look!
8 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Executive Secretary’s Report Online Membership Renewals and Don Mock Address Change
We are pleased to announce that, of whom will no longer have full (March 2009) issue of News & starting on May 1, 2009, members support. The impact on our benefit Views so please keep this issue (or prospective members) will be plan costs will also affect those handy when travelling or making able to pay their ARTA membership participating in our plans. For selected purchases from our partici- fee, and, where available, some instance, the government now cov- pating vendors. While some of the branch membership fees by entering ers 70% of most drug prescriptions vendors remain the same as last our website for an online transac- for everyone over age 65 and our year, the list of hotels is now even tion by credit card. In addition, plan pays 80% of the remainder. As more extensive and covers most of members will be able to update their drug costs are over 50% of our total Canada, some of the U.S. and even membership information online for premium costs including travel, we other parts of the world. Overall, such things as change of address. can expect some increases to pre- we have received some very positive We will still accept application miums because most of our plan feedback from members who have renewals and cheques by mail as we participants will no longer have used the program. Those who have have always done but we encourage that 70% coverage and our plan used it have often saved the cost of you to use the online service. While will have to now pay the full 80% their ARTA membership and more. visiting our website for online ser- of these costs. It is our objective to make it better every year. Please give it a try and vice you will also see some of the [For more information on the details give us an account of your experi- things that your organization is of this plan see Lynda Somerville’s ence with it. involved in both at the provincial article and other articles in this and branch level. Our website is: edition.] —Don Mock www.albertarta.org Our Association will be working with Changes for Seniors other seniors groups in an effort to resulting from the Alberta influence the Alberta Government ATTENTION: Member to address our concerns but we will Photographers—In the last Government’s changes to its need the support of our members to few issues of News and Views Seniors Support program be most effective. Please contact your you will have noticed the colour In December 2008, Ron Liepert, MLA and express your concerns. photograph on the front cover. Minister of Health and Wellness, We would be pleased to receive announced a substantial change to Updated ARTA from our members digital JPEG what had been a universal support Affinity-Discount Program photos that might be used for program for all Albertans over Our Membership Services the front cover of future issues. 65 years of age. As of January 1, Coordinator, Jerry Stefanyk, has To find out more about this 2010, the drug prescription pro- completed the 2009 update of our opportunity please contact gram will be means tested. This discount program for our regular Jerry Stefanyk, ARTA Member change will definitely have an effect and affiliate members. The update Services at [email protected] on our members, the vast majority is included in the last section of this
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 9 Impact of Pharmaceutical Strategy by Ralph Levinson (Benefits Committee Consultant)
The Alberta Minister of Health and new strategy’s means test. This of detail, there is a wide range in Wellness proposed a new Alberta estimate translates to $101.30 per premium projections (30% differ- Government Pharmaceutical Strategy person per month for our Individual ence from highest to lowest on December 8, 2008. By Ralph Health (with Travel) Plan. We place estimates). Our best guess is that Levinson, ARTA Benefits Consultant less confidence in this number. At a the 50% increase to $126.25 per Based on ARTA’s actuarial analy- 20% increase, it has the least effect person per month is a very likely sis of this strategy’s impact, the on premiums of all of our methods outcome if the new strategy is implementation will likely result in of forecasting the impact of the implemented. proposed Pharmaceutical Strategy. a substantial increase in your ARTA Note that none of our calculations Again this projection is far from Extended Health Plan premiums. indicate ‘no change’ in premiums or perfect. View it as the least likely of The magnitude of the increase will a reduced cost to our members. We our scenarios as insufficient detail depend on a number of factors as urge you to review ARTA President has been released to complete the yet undetermined. Our initial analy- Paul Boisvert’s outline on pages analysis of the strategy with a sis indicates that we can expect three and four of this issue of News higher degree of accuracy. ARTA insurance plan premiums to and Views and to contact your increase by 50% when the strategy The proposed strategy is very con- MLA and the Minister to express is implemented, an increase from ceptual at this time. Due to the lack your concern. the current premium of $84.50 to over $125.00 per person per month for an individual’s Extended Health Have You Calculated Your Pension Increase Lately? (with Travel) Plan. We cannot say what the impact will Here are my figures since retiring in 2001 be on other health insurance plans. Year Alberta Consumer My Percentage We suspect the effect on premiums Price Increase Increase will be similar. 2002 3.30% 2.06% The actuarial study included an analysis of recent claims by Alberta 2003 1.70% 1.05% members and those made by a com- 2004 5.70% 3.56% parable group of British Columbia seniors under their income-based 2005 1.30% 0.81% drug coverage plan. While there 2006 2.00% 1.25% are many variables in this compari- 2007 3.60% 2.25% son, it is our best guess that future premiums could be set at $126.25 2008 4.90% 3.06% per month for the Individual 2009 3.60% 2.25% Extended Health (with Travel) Plan if the new Pharmaceutical Strategy 26.10% 16.29% becomes a reality. The purchasing power of my pension has decreased over eight We arrive at our most conservative years by 9.81%. projection by comparing drug claims by members over age 65 to those [Ed. note: to find the impact on your pension go towww.atrf.co m under age 65 and extrapolating this and register for on-line service] experience by age then applying the
10 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Editor’s Musings by David Flower
But where does the money go and why?
I am confused! Confusion is not for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) as of March 31, 2007 thus saving an unusual state of mind for me as the figure was closer to $8 billion. $725 million in annual interest some of you may already have real- CCPA economist, Ellen Russell, payments that would be passed ized but I am trying to understand stated “Martinites sit on a loaded along to taxpayers through contin- Canadian neo-liberal fiscal policy. surplus, hoarding it to pay down ued cuts to personal income taxes” I am comparing two examples, the debt.” Although this policy (CBC News, September 27, 2007). that of the Alberta Progressive did not please CCPA, I would have Conservative government and that thought that it would surely have After the fall 2008 federal election, of the federal Conservative govern- pleased the neo-liberals who follow which saw the return of another ment and how they differ. the economic philosophy of Milton minority Conservative government (at a cost of $300 million), the In the early 1990s, the Progressive Friedman. But now comes the con- fusing part, at least for me. government announced that “for Conservative government in Alberta the first seven months [April to was lauded by the neo-liberals for A neo-liberal minority Conservative October] of the fiscal year 2008 ridding itself of deficit budgets and government was elected in 2006 the government posted a surplus of promising that never again would and it immediately announced $200 million, down from an excess a deficit budget be tolerated in “sweeping tax cuts, with almost $20 of revenue over expenses for the the province. Once the deficit had billion in tax relief” (CanadaOne, same period last year [2007] of $6.1 been eliminated (one year after the May 2006). Whatever happened billion” (CBC News, December 23, strategy was announced) then the to paying down the debt? Was this 2008). The federal Finance Minister government proposed eliminating budget a sweetener for business announced that the economy “is the provincial debt. The reason and the general public simply to weakening significantly”—not behind this move was, in essence, encourage greater support for the helped by reducing revenues through that Albertans should not handicap Conservative party? The budget increased giveaways. Reductions their children and grandchildren included a reduction in the GST in tax revenues (corporate taxes by leaving a huge debt for them to from seven percent to six percent down 12.6 percent and GST down pay. According to the province’s (reduced again to five percent 17 percent, both from the previous former premier, that debt was January 1, 2008), numerous tax year) reflect the decisions made by paid. However, for many people breaks for small and large compa- the Conservative government in its the fact that the province is indeed nies and removed some 650,000 previous two years. In December totally debt free is still a matter for low income Canadians from the 2008, the federal Finance Minister debate. tax rolls by increasing the ‘basic blamed the small surplus on the The federal government had a major personal amount’ of federal income prospect of a recession. It would debt during the 1990s as well. The tax. With those changes still in seem to me, hence my confusion, Liberal government made signifi- the works, the Prime Minister that giving former revenue sources cant moves at that time, including announced that the 2006-07 fed- away whether to individuals, small reducing grants and services, to eral surplus “came in at $13.8 businesses or corporations in terms begin paying down that debt, albeit billion”. The surplus, announced of tax breaks, results in less federal only marginally. By 2004, the the Prime Minister, would be used revenue either to pay down the debt Liberal government was projecting “to pay down the federal govern- or, in the current situation, create a surplus of $5.5 billion, however, ment’s accumulated debt, which a federal surplus, or even a bal- according to the Canadian Centre will have dropped to $467.3 billion anced budget. So what happened
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 11 to the neo-liberal belief in paying 1. Sell public assets to gain $2.3 Obviously these various proposals down the debt? Why would you not billion in 2009/10 and a total are not all bad ones but some of ask people to tighten their belts of $10 billion over the next five them reflect the neo-liberal agenda as the Progressive Conservatives years (Ed: Some of you with that swept through many countries did in Alberta so that the debt can long memories might remember in the 1990s. Marc Zwelling com- continue to be paid down instead of that move in New Zealand under mented that the Prime Minister assuming that by giving tax breaks their Finance Minister Roger “must have faced a caucus revolt to it is possible to stimulate spending, Douglas, Unfinished Business, turn him from Milton Friedman to or is the belief that spending is the 1993 and the resulting problems John Maynard Keynes practically only way out of a recession? this neo-liberal direction created overnight” (The Harper Index, for New Zealand); December 22, 2008). The Prime In the Finance Minister’s Economic 2. Reduce equalization payments Minister is a well-known supporter and Fiscal Update on December 17, to have-not provinces by an of neo-liberalism and that philosophy 2008, he claimed that the $31 bil- expected $1.8 billion in 2009/10 is reflected in some of the proposals lion in tax cuts announced as far and by $4.5 billion in 2010/11; in the Economic and Fiscal Update. back as 2006 doubles as a stimulus 3. Cut base funding to any program The question then remains the same, the economy needs. However, “an that had not fully spent its budget as indeed does my confusion. Does analysis by the Centre for Spatial in the previous year—worth $2 the current fiscal dilemma mean Economics concludes the fiscal billion in 2009/10, and more than that the Conservative government stimulus effect of the next round of $5 billion over the next five years; is going to change its policy with tax cuts is a mere $2.5 billion. It 4. Reduce wages for federal public regard to reducing the federal debt, is not the stimulus Canada needs. servants by $4.1 billion over the or is it prepared to do whatever In fact, a Toronto Dominion Bank next five years, including rolling it needs to do to attempt to gain study of U.S. tax rebates found only back increases and outlawing popular support and thereby win ten percent of their value resulted the right to strike; and a majority at the next election? If in actual stimulus to the American 5. Accelerate program review to the party does win a majority will economy” (CCPA January 6, 2009). cover $25 billion of programs, the Prime Minister then revert to So more tax cuts, especially to yielding unspecified amounts of his strong neo-liberal policies by benefit low income earners is not a money coming from unspecified pushing Friedmanite reforms onto way to stimulate growth. However, program cuts—the last round of Canadians including paying off the to maintain the fiction that it will such review covered $13.6 bil- debt whatever way possible? prevent a deficit the government lion of programs and provided announced the following spending $896.1 million over three years Goodness what a change a couple cuts in the Economic and Fiscal to be allocated to government of months can make in the govern- Update, December 17, 2008: priorities. ment’s financial plans!
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12 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views From the Branches
Ponoka & District was completed within budget and Velma and Russell have contributed with a small amount of money left to countless community, church or Retired Teachers’ over. Many retired teachers worked hospital functions and absolutely Association to complete the project. Laura never say “No.” They say that Wierzba wrote a book of the his- music is the universal language of Ponoka County RTA was first orga- tory of each school district, Rural the world. Their keen spirit and care nized, in 1975, around the kitchen Schools of Ponoka County. The book and compassion for others through table of Viola Shomshor. The first is now in its second printing. Eldred the years are wonderful attributes president was Twig Taylor. Of the & Margaret Stamp, Harry Bourne typical of active retired teachers. and Harold Dootson arranged twenty-six charter members who Members are very active in the contracts, painted signs and trans- joined, two are still active, Edna communities, in PDARTA and in ported them to school sites. Selma Cerveny and Ruth Berdine. Twig ARTA. Meetings are held in differ- Stobbe and others collected money. Taylor attended her first ARTA ent places throughout the area. Our Many others helped to locate school meeting during October 1976. September Back To School break- sites and arrange for the erection of PDARTA members continue to play fast is held at Scott School, (now a the signs. an active role in committees or community centre) east of Ponoka. activities of ARTA. Ponoka retired teachers are very Scott School is over 100 years old. The first objectives of the organi- active in the community. There Luncheon meetings at local restau- zation was for social reasons, to are numerous teachers who hold rants are very popular with many improve the welfare of the mem- part-time jobs or volunteer for the retired teachers and guests attend- bers, to form a group to qualify for many organizations. Ninety-year- ing. A Christmas party is held at the group rates and to generate and old retired teacher, Laura Wierzba, Ponoka Composite High School. It have an influence on the provincial was honoured with the Morna is great to have the high school Food association. The minutes indicate Chorney Heart & Soul Award for Studies students prepare and serve that, in 1976, PDARTA joined the volunteering over many years. She a turkey dinner in the school library. Canadian Pension Committee to try did not know she was receiving the An excellent telephoning committee to improve pensions for seniors. award. The list of accomplishments keeps everyone informed of events. was read and then her name was Meetings are informal with reports For the past three years, PDARTA announced, much to her surprise. A from the various committees such has been working on a project for plaque dedicated to Laura Wierzba as the benefits, pension and school Alberta’s Centennial. Markers have was presented and displayed in marker committees. been placed at the site of each of the education site at the museum. the former rural schools in what is Submitted by During the last week of June, she Vice President, Dorothy Ungstad now Ponoka County. The steel pipe was also named Honorary President signs show the name, the school dis- of the Ponoka Stampede. She com- trict number as well as the years of mented that she would have loved operation. The markers pay tribute to ride a horse in the parade but to pioneers in this area who were thought she was too old. dedicated to providing an educa- tion for their children and also to Russell Petterson and Velma Hart, the many graduates who went on both over 80, received the Rita to higher education. Ponoka News Scott Community Service Award, printed several articles about the given to deserving individuals or history of the school districts. A groups who willingly provide a display at the Ponoka County Fair keen spirit and gifts of volunteering brought an interest in schools with an open heart for the benefit and schooling years ago. Despite of others. Velma plays the piano unexpected delays, the undertaking while Russell plays the accordion.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 13 Honouring and travelled extensively for many years. Edna Cerveny Our First Edna keeps in close contact with her Original signer of the Ponoka Retired children, sings with the Sunshine Contest Winner Teachers’ Association Charter, Singers and Bell Ringers, is active Jean Diduck of Sherwood Park Edna Stretch Cerveny, celebrated in her church and on Sunday morn- is our first News and Views her 99th birthday on September ing walks several blocks with a little contest winner. She claimed 15. This vibrant lady still lives in help from her cane because she her $50 Tony Roma gift cer- her own home and drives her car to believes getting out and exercise tificate at the ARTA office in the Farmers Market. Edna began is very important. She also walks Barnett House on January 14, her 26-year teaching career (was to her hair appointment “because 2009. also the janitor) in 1936 at Mound parking is hard to find downtown.” Red with 18 students in Grades 1 In her winning words “the The Legion Auxiliary, United to 9. “I had to take out a student two words are found on page Church Women, Alberta Teachers’ loan of $400 to make ends meet in 17. The first letter of each Association, the Drop-In Centre, the beginning. I was making about paragraph, last to first, spell Ponoka Hospital & Care Centre $1000 a year and was able to pay TONYROMA in the article Auxiliary, Hazel Hill Handicraft back the loan at 7% interest.” ‘China Awakens.’ Club and the Ponoka & District Edna and Gordon Stretch were Horticultural Society have all ben- Jean is also looking forward married in 1938. Three sons, efited from Edna’s involvement. to our next contest. She Gordon Jr, Brian and Robert com- claims that “exercising your You might find Edna home occa- pleted their family. Edna’s husband mind keeps you sharp.” She is sionally sharing tea and date was tragically killed leaving her to one sharp lady. We did receive squares with welcome visitors. The raise the boys and teach at Ponoka a number of entries, and we aftermath of her glorious birthday Elementary School until she retired hope to be overwhelmed with has left Edna’s home looking like a in 1972. entries for the contest included flower shop. She is thankful for her in this issue. August Cerveny, town councilor, memories of life, family and friends caught Edna’s eye. They married and her favourite community.
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ARTA is in the process of acquiring a new database that will enable members to renew and pay for member ships on line as well as update address changes themselves by visiting our website at www.albertarta.org. To accomplish the above requires an email address for secure identification. Some of the email addresses we originally collected have changed and therefore need updating. For those couples, who are both sepa- rate members of ARTA, we require a unique email address for each in order for each member to access our online membership renewals. Another reason we would like email addresses is to better communicate with our members when important issues arise. Finally, some members may prefer to receive their News and Views magazine by email for environmental reasons and we would like to accommodate that concern. It also saves our organization, and ultimately our members money, when we do this. For those of you without email, we will continue to serve you through regular mail as we have always done. Our privacy policy requires that we do not use or release your personal information for any purpose other than for ARTA business or for access by Johnson Inc., the plan administrator for ARTA insurance purposes. Please email the following information by March 31/09 to [email protected] or write to us at Room 409, 11010 142 St. NW. Edmonton, AB. T5N 2R1 Name ARTA number (if known) Birthdate Address Email address
14 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Reflections on ‘Positive Aging’
I have had some enquiries about the be old to be an elder and she was terms elder, sage and sage-ing®. having none of that!” I observed We are more familiar with the that her wisdom of life experience designation senior and aging but let was shining through her conversa- me propose some research into the tion but her awareness of being an label senior. elder sharing that wisdom was not In his groundbreaking vision of evident. growing older, From Age-ing What about the term ‘sage-ing’®? to Sage-ing, (1995) Zalman The same author contrasts aging as Schachter-Shalomi defines senior “a process of gradually increasing as “… an honorific title that belies personal diminishment and disen- our nonessential participation in gagement from life” with sage-ing® the workplace, family life, and as “a process that enables older the social and political spheres. people to become spiritually radi- According to age-related stereo- ant, physically vital, and socially types, the elderly withdraw from responsible elders of the tribe.” Judy Steiert active participation in the world, The theme of the First Annual pursue innocuous hobbies, travel, Sage-ing® Guild Conference in aging and better tools at our com- and reminisce about the past.” Ohio in June 2008 was: “Changing mand to combat negative images of As an alternative, the definition of the Paradigm from Aging to Sage- aging; “Harry Moody: Later Life elder emerges as “a person who is ing®…One Story at a Time.” Creativity,” an amazing slide-lecture still growing, still a learner, still As a member of the Sage-ing® looking at works through time by with potential, and whose life con- Guild, I had the privilege of hosting Michelangelo, Picasso, Matisse, tinues to have within it promise for, the Second Annual Positive Aging and self-portraits of Rembrandt, and connection to, the future. An Conference Achieving Purpose, along with women artists of the 20th elder is still in pursuit of happiness, Meaning and Vitality in the Second century: Louise Nevelson, Grandma joy, and pleasure, and her or his Half of Life in November 2008. Moses, and Kathie Kollwitz; Dan birthright to these remains intact. The format was a webcast originat- Buettner: “The Blue Zones: Lessons Moreover, an elder is a person who ing at the University of Minnesota. for Living Longer from the People deserves respect and honour and This experience was certainly a Who’ve Lived the Longest” know- whose work it is to synthesize wisdom stretch for me in technology but the ing there is a “recipe for longevity from long life experience and for- 40 participants were very support- and that 75 percent is related to mulate this into a legacy for future ive as we accessed “live” and same lifestyle;” and Joanne Disch: generations.” When I reflect on the day “archived” presentations of “Positive Aging as Public Policy” lives of friends and former colleagues, very current information relevant exploring how every one of us could if they needed a label, I would cer- to this time in our lives. “ age with dignity and purpose” if a tainly honour them with elder. The speakers included Richard philosophy of positive aging shaped Recently, I was in a secondhand Leider: “A Midlife Opportunity— public policy. bookstore and in breezed a woman A Whole New Way to Age” seeking Our presenters shared their collec- with several years of life experience to help us revalue our values and tive wisdom and encouraged us to who was seeking copies of fairly learn how to grow whole, not old act on this information individually, obscure books to round out her col- in the second half of life; Richard in our families and within the com- lection of a particular author. The Bolles (at 81): “The Three Paths munity. Answering the essential owner and I engaged in conversa- (Luck, Step-by-step, Intuition) to question, “What makes me want tion with her about her search. At Find Meaning and Purpose for Our to get out of bed in the morning?” one point I interjected that “it was Life” with advice on better ability becomes even more vital to staying obvious that she was an elder.” to handle our aging, better abil- alive as we age and redefine our- Her response was that “you had to ity to help others achieve positive selves in retirement.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 15 In Memoriam
J. Dale Spencer Armstrong Raffaella Montemurro passed Maureen Vinge passed away passed away October 24, 2008. away October 18, 2008. Raffaella August 15, 2008. Maureen was a Dale worked for Edmonton Public had a distinguished career with the passionate educator. In a career Schools from 1966 until he retired Edmonton Public School Board for spanning 40 years, she devoted in 1999 as a teacher, consultant, 30 years as a teacher and art consul- herself to effecting change in the vice-principal, principal and finally tant. She also taught in Lesoto and world of education, ensuring that as Director of Student Assessment. in Germany. In 2006 she received generations of children would be His dedication to the education of a Provincial Excellence in Teaching fostered in caring, challenging, children and commitment to fellow Award. Raffaella was a passionate inquiry-based learning environ- educators, in the profession he loved and inspired teacher and her teach- ments. She enjoyed success as a so much, will be remembered and ing inspired her own art. teacher, principal, consultant and treasured. As one of the founding Nickol Olinyk passed away October teacher trainer in over a dozen dif- members of the Alberta Assessment 25, 2008. Nickol taught for 34 years ferent countries on five continents. Consortium his legacy of excellence at the Two Hills High School where She was a leader in the development will long influence the consortium’s he was a teacher, vice-principal and and expansion of the International course. principal. He was a remarkable Baccalaureate Primary Years educator, highly respected by stu- Program around the world. Friends Brenda Cavanagh passed away dents, staff, colleagues and parents. and colleagues remember her gen- September 1, 2008. Brenda was In recognition of his dedication and erosity of spirit, her modesty, her a well-loved, dedicated teacher in love of his profession, memorial confidence, her ability to speak Australia, Slave Lake and Drayton scholarships for chemistry and phys- clearly with honesty and courage, Valley and inspired many in her ics will be established by his family her vision, her energy and her pas- wonderful 40-year career. at the Two Hills High School. sion for all things that make life beautiful. To honour Maureen’s Emma Flint (née Newman) passed William Roy Riley passed away life and work, the Vinge family has away October 30, 2008. Emma August 27, 2008. Roy taught for established the Koh Kandal School contributed greatly to society 24 years at Bonnie Doon Composite Project to benefit young children in through her special abilities as a High School, followed by two years rural Cambodia. reading teacher. Children benefited at J. Percy Page High School. After directly from her skills in a wide retiring in 1988, Roy continued to Ruth Whaley passed away in variety of school settings; one-room be involved in teaching at Alberta November 2007. After grade school country schools in northern Alberta, Vocational College. Ruth attended Camrose Normal city classes in Edmonton Public School, graduating in 1935. She Lysle Doreen (Monty) Smith Schools and bilingual classes at spent her entire working life in the (née Montgomery) passed away Talmud Torah School. Her research teaching profession, teaching in September 14, 2008. Monty took country schools before graduating in reading readiness was shared her first teacher training in Normal with students at the University of from the University of Alberta with School and started her first teach- a bachelor’s degree in household Alberta and at Memorial University ing position in Tomahawk, Alberta. in Newfoundland. economics in 1946. She graduated She spent many years teaching in from Colorado State University Ontario and all over Alberta, finally Suzanne (Suzy) McLean (née with a master’s degree in education retiring from MacDougall School Polorski) passed away September in 1967 and subsequently taught in in Calgary. 6, 2008. Suzy taught school in the schools in Alberta and the Northwest Kitscoty area for over 40 years. She Isabel Valli (née Stewart) passed Territories until her retirement in will be well remembered by students away August 27, 2008. Isabel was 1974. Ruth’s bequest of $105,000 and colleagues for her dedication to a dedicated teacher and learner, to the A.T.A. Educational Trust is and love of her profession. and her passions included garden- the largest donation the Trust has ing and teaching. ever received.
16 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views A View of Provincial Politics
By Maurice Tougas (Liberal MLA Edmonton-Meadowlark, 2004-2008)
We called it the Fear Factor. We those in rural Alberta, that the him. Our MLA wrote a nice thank Alberta Liberal MLAs found many Progressive Conservative Party you note to the Big Valley people, Albertans were terrified to talk to and the Government of Alberta encouraging them to invite opposi- members of the Official Opposition have become one and the same, a tion MLAs again. Apparently, it did caucus. A lot of rural Albertans two-headed beast that giveth and not sit well with the Tory powers would rather be seen with Klansmen taketh away, and one you most that be, and we were not invited than with Liberals. What were they definitely do not want to piss off. back. afraid of? You name it. They were The Conservatives have convinced It’s one thing to be not invited to afraid of losing their government rural Albertans that a vote for a contracts. They were afraid of los- an event, but it is an entirely dif- Tory is a vote for a playground, or ferent thing to be de-invited to an ing funding for their pet project. a newly paved road, or a spiffy new They were just afraid of the Tories, event. A while back, all MLAs were government building. Many rural invited to a feedbag sponsored by period. Here’s an example, just one Albertans are convinced that if you of many. an Alberta food producers group, to were to elect a Liberal, funding for be held at the Old Timer’s Cabin, A rural group came to Edmonton your town would disappear faster and was to feature a smorgasbord a while back to bend the ear of a than arts funding from Stephen of Alberta-produced products, minister. From there, they had Harper. which means beef and beef related made an appointment to talk to In order to give the impression that foodstuffs. I eagerly signed up for the corresponding Liberal critic (or they are the only party out there, the this one (note to readers: If you ‘shadow minister’, as we so pomp- Tories go to great lengths to mar- want an MLA to attend your event, ously started to call ourselves when ginalize opposition MLAs, mostly promise food), as did a number of we thought we could form a gov- by pretending they do not exist. My other Liberal MLAs. ernment). While the critic’s office favourite story of the death-grip was in the Annex building (that Sometime later, a flunky from the the Tories have on rural Alberta organization phoned me to say wretched Soviet architecture-style involves the Big Valley Jamboree building that houses MLAs and that the invitation was a mistake, down Camrose way, the Woodstock that opposition members were not staff) that was no more than a two- for the country crowd. We had never minute walk from the minister’s invited, and that I should not come. been invited to Big Valley, although This behaviour is like inviting office in the Legislature, the group our PC brethren were, as a matter insisted on meeting in the critic’s someone to a wedding, then chang- of course. One year, to our shock, ing your mind and telling them they constituency office some distance we received invitations. I did not go away. Why? They were afraid that cannot come because some of the (camping and country music are as other guests do not like them. I can the minister might see them walk- appealing a mix to me as ... well, ing over to the Annex to consort only imagine what kind of pressure I cannot think of a less appealing came to bear on this organization with the enemy. This was not an combination) but one MLA did. Our isolated incident. to force them to actually go through MLA met with one of the organiz- the humiliating process of withdraw- After nearly 40 years with the ers at a Big Valley hospitality tent. ing invitations. (I should say that, same party in power, the major- The organizer, mistaking him for a to the best of my knowledge, ity of people in this province have Tory, admitted that the organizers Edmonton’s big time organizations never experienced anything other had mistakenly invited Liberals, were very fair to opposition MLAs, than Conservative rule. The Tories and wanted to know if he thought it frequently because we were the only have become so ingrained into the was okay? Our guy, naturally, told ones who regularly showed up at psyche of Albertans, particularly him it was a great idea, and thanked events.)
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 17 As the 2008 election approached to introduce even Alberta Liberal or this town, often did the same thing. and the government was shifting New Democrat MLAs in an audi- Does this sound petty? To you, perhaps, into full bully mode, many Tories ence. (I will always remember being it is. But to a politician who depends began to ignore the professional introduced at a public meeting by on the goodwill of the voter for his courtesies that are part of the MLA’s then-minister Yvonne Fritz shortly job, it is a very big deal. Odd as it unwritten code of conduct. Being after I was elected.) Less classy may sound in this cynical age, it is introduced at an event is a Big Deal ministers—which is to say, most of still a big deal to many people to to an MLA. If you go to a large din- them—would introduce their Tory have an elected official show up at ner or a major public event, and the brethren (even when they were not an event. Who did not show up is as MC does not recognize your pres- there, which happened regularly), but important as those who did. That’s ence, you might as well not be there. ignore opposition MLAs. Event MCs, the life of a politician, reason num- Classier ministers always made sure often Tory sympathizers or insiders in ber 287 why I’m glad I’m out of it.
A thief in Paris decided to steal some paintings from the Louvre. After careful planning, he avoided security, stole the paintings and made it safely back to his van. However, he was captured only two blocks away when his van ran out of gas. When asked how he could mastermind such a crime and then make such an obvious error, he replied, “Monsieur, I had no Monet to buy Degas to make the Van Gogh.” (And you thought I lacked De Gaulle to tell you a story like this).
Wainwright Retired Teachers’ Association’s Christmas meeting, December 11, 2008, with Food Bank items and gifts for the Christmas Wish program to which WRTA donates each year. Left to right are Jack MacDonald, Rose MacDonald, Nancy Bullock, George Bunz, Louise Bunz, Maxine Pugh, Allan Ford, Eleanor Perry, Ruth Erickson, Shirley Witholt, Eva Ho, Lillian Daniels, Erika Foley and Marg Clifford.
18 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Dear Editor: took millions of years to generate. We are I have a number of comments for close to the tipping point. you and like the wise old school This latter, as researched superintendent “a little praise, a by the Canada West little blame, a little praise” (the Foundation and verified sandwich treatment). by the Pembina Institute, First, the magazine format (high is only two degrees Celsius from tech) and content are excellent— irreversible climate paradigm much improved. shifts. We are already seeing/ feeling the perturbations in much Second, the content is better as to larger hurricanes and the release variety, veracity and volume (just of methane gas (Siberia and right). The print is large as are the East Hudson Bay). Hunker down page numbers. The subscript “com- a bit and enjoy an ice cream cone ments” (purple prose) require a at Markerville—that won’t require Dear Editor: good light, otherwise unreadable— expensive travel insurance. lighten up. The suggestion I am making below Regarding Political Action—very is based on my experience as a Third, this is obviously a magazine good work has been done but, teacher-librarian, school newspa- for old or nearly so folks who are, essentially, we are observers being per adviser, and editor/publisher/ more or less, settled in conventional reported to (except in SUN article). advertising manager of a 20‑page modes and modalities. The [provincial] P.C.s are not now brain‑injury related newsletter. Those are some general comments, the Progressive Conservatives—my now to specifics. moniker for them is Persistent I dreamt about having some color. Corporatists. Just short of violent I actually had some very cheaply: Regarding travel—every time a vituperative messages are likely the the newsletter was printed in big plane crosses the sky it leaves only ones that will get through unless, medium blue. a contrail of carbon particles 50 of course, “we” are prepared to Anyway congratulations on this miles wide. “We,” the planetary continue in our comfortable pew. “we,” have unleashed pollutants fabulous makeover of ARTA News into the atmosphere in only 250 All the best, and Views. years by “unstoring,” carbon it Jim Lavers Here is a suggestion on a very cheap way to make it look even An elderly woman from Kelowna decided to prepare her will. She better—switch from a non-serif to told her lawyer that she had only two final requests. First she a serif font. If you analyze quality wanted to be cremated and second she wanted her ashes scattered newspapers and magazines, you’ll over the parking lot at the local Wal-Mart. “Wal-Mart,” exclaimed the find that’s what they use. Times lawyer, “Why Wal-Mart?” Roman, which is what I used here, is an example. The Romans of “Then I’ll be sure my daughter visits me twice a week,” replied the antiquity used it too.
woman. www.albertarta.org Harlan Hulleman
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 19 Government Strategies: Have Seniors Become the Enemy?
On December 8, 2008, Alberta’s a tax that requires seniors to cover fixed incomes whose decision to Health Minister, Ron Liepert, the full cost of their prescriptions retire was based on the assur- unveiled his government’s until they have spent a required ance that their drug costs would Pharmaceutical Strategy. One week graduated percentage of their gross be limited by the premium-free later, he and the Seniors Minister, incomes. That percentage tops out Blue Cross for Seniors plan. Mary Anne Jablonski, introduced at 5% of before-tax income (about • Fifth, this strategy comes at a their Continuing Care Strategy. 7% of after-tax income) for indi- time of economic crisis when viduals with incomes higher than many seniors who planned for The term “strategy” is apt: my $56,325 and for couples exceeding their retirement have already Dictionary of Canadian English $77,650, up to a maximum income seen their savings reduced in defines a “stratagem” as “a scheme of $150,000. value by 30% or more. or trick for deceiving the enemy.” • Finally, the strategy is dis- Has it really come to the point that criminatory. Prescription drug the Alberta government consid- insurance is available to all other ers seniors the enemy because we So what is so wrong groups in society at a uniform have greater need of health care with this new rate for a given level of cover- services? proposal? age. For middle class seniors, however, the cost of prescription • First, it violates one of the drug coverage will be a function Pharmaceutical five cardinal principles of the of their income. Strategy1 Canada Health Act — universal- ity. Under that principal, health The Pharmaceutical Strategy is ill While this strategy comes with care benefits should be avail- conceived and will be a nightmare a “spoonful of sugar to make the able to all on the basis of need, to administer for the government, medicine go down,” it is in fact a regardless of ability to pay. for the insurance industry, and for bitter pill, one that will have appall- • Second, it transfers the cost of a pharmacists. An insurer providing ing side effects for many Alberta needed social benefit, not onto coverage for the deductible amount seniors and their families, and for society as a whole, but onto a of drug costs for a senior will have the baby boomers who soon will be select group: those who are both to have information on the senior’s seniors. seniors and in high need of pre- income to know the amount of risk scription drugs. Are we now taxing they are assuming. Pharmacists The strategy involves the elimina- people because they are ill? will also need to have access to the tion of premium-free Blue Cross • Third, it skirts Alberta’s own tax same personal financial information Coverage for Seniors, a long- policy, which says that income to know when government coverage established program that limits all should be taxed to a maximum commences. One has to wonder seniors’ drug expenditures to 30% flat rate of 10% of income. how secure our personal financial of cost, to a maximum of $25 per Apparently, the government now information is when it is so widely prescription. Instead, prescription thinks it appropriate for that rate accessible. drugs will be available free to indi- to go up to 17% for seniors who vidual seniors with gross incomes are not impoverished and who of $21,325 or less and couples with have a high need for prescription Continuing Care gross incomes below $42,650. drugs. The health care system is Strategy2 However, this long overdue benefit not the place to address income will be paid for by a form of tax disparity. This strategy comes with a large on seniors whose incomes are above • Fourth, it disrupts the carefully dollop of feel-good rhetoric. It these thresholds. This policy will be laid financial plans of seniors on talks about “providing Albertans
20 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views the option to ‘age in the right arbitrary income thresholds will be issues is by telephone calls and let- place’”. It talks about improving turned over to the tender mercies of ters to your own MLA and to the home care, respite care, and even the private sector. Minister of Health and Wellness, promises, among other things, to the Minister of Seniors and As Minister Liepert said when “increase daily personal care hours Community Supports, and the office announcing this strategy, seniors by 25% for high needs individuals of the Premier. In addition, if you should not have a sense of entitle- in supportive living”. are a member of a group that has ment just because they have turned concerns about seniors and fairness, 65. While the government seems Reality hits, however, when it encourage them to do the same. becomes clear that the document is prepared to provide charity to the not talking about what the govern- most impoverished seniors, it is The MLAs are your representa- ment will do, but rather, about what no longer prepared to provide the tives. Tell them that Mr. Liepert the government will encourage the health and personal care that frail got it wrong, and they, as your voluntary and private sectors to do. and cognitively impaired seniors elected representatives, need to get paid for all their working lives. it right! To aid in this transition, the govern- ment intends to abandon regulating The name and phone number of long-term care accommodation What can individuals your MLA and ministers is avail- rates — the only continuing care able by calling 310-0000 or on this rates currently set by government — and groups do about website:
“The apple does not fall far from the tree” If you were a member of the current Alberta government one would think that you would be a little embarrassed. Imagine having to admit that the people of Alberta have to “Brace for Klein-era cuts” (The Edmonton Journal, January 16, 2009). Whatever happened to the billions of dollars this government has been accumulating and bragging about over the last few years? When the former premier retired and was replaced by the current one Albertans were promised a new style of open government. Apparently as soon as there is a crisis the government threatens to return to the policies of 1993/94 and, one can only presume, the same secrecy. Apparently history teaches us nothing!
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 21 Travel—A Journey to Israel and Jordan
by David and Sue Flower
Old Jaffa, just south of Tel Aviv. The mosque with its traditional minaret was built in 1812 and is used by the local Muslims.
The Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, Isreal.
The Treasury—the first building seen as visitors emerge from the gorge The Indiana Jones Coffee leading to the city. The city was built by Shop at the entrance to the Nabateans in the first century B.C.E. Petra, Jordan. It was a one and a half kilometre walk to the city.
A Bedouin tent in the Wadi Rum in southern Jordan—the desert with Lawrence of Arabia. The olive trees in the Garden of Gethsemane at the associated foot of the Mount of Olives.
22 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Travel—A Journey to Israel and Jordan by David and Sue Flower A concrete wall separates Israel and the Palestinian Authority territory. To get to Bethlehem we had to walk through a turnstile in the wall.
The Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, Isreal. The Western Wall – the The Treasury—the first building seen only remaining part of the as visitors emerge from the gorge Temple Mount built by leading to the city. The city was built by Herod the Great, where the Nabateans in the first century B.C.E. Jews gather to offer prayers.
Old Jerusalem within city walls and the golden cupola on the Dome of the Rock, a location sacred to A view of Tel Aviv, Israel, on the shores of the Mediterranean Muslims, Christians and Jews. – a true resort city.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 23 What Are We Doing Now?
Retirement is a time to do what we want when we want if we want. This column is designed to share with you stories of how retired teachers are doing just that.
Marilyn Bossert
As we enter the village of Mannville, at the school. He and his Grade 4 mode of life we led while teaching to we are greeted by the sign “Recycle students produced a documentary a more relaxed way of life. Second, Today, Save Tomorrow”. This com- describing the life of a bag of gar- it was a way to supplement their munity is the home of the local bage. Remember the worm compost pension. Both had taken time off Bottle Depot where retired teach- boxes? They were in Verner’s throughout their teaching careers, ers Elsie and Verner Thompson classroom. When the time came to Elsie to be a full time mom and can be found Wednesday to Friday recycle pop cans at the school, once Verner to pursue other interests. from 1:00–5:00 and Saturday from again, it was Verner who took the Last, but by no means least, it gave 10:00–4:00. initiative. The money raised went them the freedom and flexibility to to projects that adopted wild ani- pursue other dreams such as travel- Elsie and Verner were born and mals and purchased portions of the ling, golfing, quilting, and hobbies raised on farms north of town, Canada Trail. they had little time for during their graduated from the Mannville teaching days. School, attended the University of When the local Bottle Depot came Alberta, were married in 1969, and on the market, it was a natural The business is becoming more after five years of teaching in the fit for Verner to continue with his successful every day. Customers Northwest Territories and one year environmentalist passions. In his appreciate the cleanliness of the in Vegreville, returned to Mannville final year of teaching, he dropped facility and the honesty of the Thompsons. Their customers come to teach and to raise their three to half time, and spent the other from the surrounding communities, sons. half of his day learning the busi- ness. Verner and Elsie have been with some as far away as Edmonton. As an elementary Science teacher, working together since their youth, Some days are really busy, but Verner was the environmentalist so of course, Elsie would join him the Thompsons never send anyone after school. away. Customers can drop off their load, and return later to pick up Following their their refund. If the day is slow, the retirement Thompsons will leave a sign on the in 2005, the door with their telephone number. Thompsons They live a short distance away so found their new they quickly return. business fit their new lifestyle so Operating a Bottle Depot is not a well. First of glamorous job. (But then, neither all, it gave them was teaching!) “Labour inten- a new focus. sive” takes on new meaning as we Many of us watch the process of counting and need something sorting the latest load of cans and to make the bottles. After the customer collects transition from her $150 for her truckload, the the high energy Thompsons have to do the heavy
24 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views work, the preparation for the weekly off they went to the local summer shipment to the ABCRC (Alberta parades, a great way to promote Beverage Container Recycling their business, and support their community at the same time. Corporation). By the time they have KiheiA Vacation Surfside in Maui all those bottles and cans ready to Now that accounts for Wednesday to go, there is no need for them to go It’s time to plan your Saturday. So what do the Thompsons 2009/10 holidays. to the gym. They’ve already had do the rest of the week? Whatever Immaculate waterfront their workout! they want, for after all, isn’t that what retirement is all about? 1 bedroom,1 1/2 “Take it Off!” is not the slogan bath condo, sleeps one would expect in a bottle depot, —Marilyn Bossert four, free internet but that was the message on the and long distance to Canada, 40” helium balloons and the T-shirts Elsie and Verner were wearing that Do you have retirement flat screen tv with BluRay player, day. Collecting bottle caps is for experiences that you would swimming pool, barbeque, and well- the Caps Off for Kids program with like to share? Your new equipped kitchen. Visit once and you proceeds going to The Rainbow pursuit may be business, will come again. For rates and photos Society of Alberta. hobby, or activity related. contact Bob or Cath Povaschuk at: For example, anyone try But even the business is not all work geocaching yet? Contact 780 430-7339 and no play. This summer Elsie and [email protected] [email protected] Verner decorated their golf cart and
News & Views Contest #2 We hope you had fun with our last contest. This one is a little different. You do not have to look all through the magazine to solve it. It involves sequences. All of you have heard of the famous Fibonacci Sequence. You have heard of the Fibonacci Sequence, have you not? In the Fibonacci Sequence (0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, ...), each term is the sum of the two previous terms (for instance, 2+3=5, 3+5=8, ...). We came up with our own numerical sequence, which probably is not as famous as the Fibonacci sequence, but it’s our own. We substituted letters for the numbers just to make it more interesting. Here it is. U D T C C S S All you have to do is give us the next three correct letters in the sequence and you could be the winner of a ‘One night accommodation at the Coast Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre’ in Calgary, or a $50 Gift certificate to Tony Roma’s. You need to be a current member of ARTA (regular or affiliate are all eligible) to enter. Please send your name, address, and ARTA number along with your answer to: ARTA Contest #2, #409 11010 – 142 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 2R1. Entries must be received by 2:00 p.m. March 27/09. The first correct entry drawn from our mailbag after 2:00 p.m. on that date will win the hotel accommodations gift certificate, and the second correct one will win the Tony Roma’s gift certificate. Decision of the judges is FINAL. Sorry, no email entries, please. The winners may be requested to send in a digital photograph so we can publish them in the next News & Views.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 25 ARTA Pension Committee
by Ken Brown
The Pension Committee is an We need ARTA’s officers to speak The then premier, Ralph Klein, ARTA standing committee with for us since each of them faces the promised it would be paid back retired teacher representation from same day-to-day pension issues that when Alberta rose from the ashes around the province. The commit- we do. The ATA represents only the of debt and destruction. Those tee meets four times a year, usually active teaching force in the prov- times did return. However, anyone in Edmonton, and usually the day ince. There are no costs attached to who retired in those years had their before the Board of Directors this request as ARTA would pay all pensions calculated on a lower five- meetings. The committee chair- of the expenses of our representa- year average. Their pension income man reports to the Board. Most tives. There seems little use to speak will always be less. When others branches have a pension repre- of representation when the two par- attained the rollback in later years, sentative with an interest in and ties have only met twice since 1992 these pensioners did not. ARTA is knowledge of teachers’ pensions. for formal discussions. ARTA advo- willing to work with the govern- The committee worked hard to cates that an annual meeting take ment to find an equitable solution prepare a “wish list,” for want of a place with all parties. Issues con- to this problem. better term, on issues the ATA could cerning pensions and retired negotiate on our behalf during the teachers arise more often than A Bridging Clause unfunded liability discussions with every 16 years. This process blends pension income the government representatives. with Canada Pension income for We were shut out of those meet- Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) those teachers who retire between ings and not one of our items was Currently our COLA payments the ages of 55 and 64 with the full mentioned in the Memorandum of are calculated on the following 85 index (age plus years of service). Agreement between the ATA and formula: Historically teachers’ pensions were the Government. Subsequently, —Pre-1992 service x 0.6 x Alberta based on 35 years of service and age ARTA asked for, and received, a Consumer Price Index (ACPI) 65—an index of 100. The pension meeting with Hon. Dave Hancock, calculation was straightforward— —Post-1992 service x 0.7 x ACPI Minister of Education, and pre- two percent per year of service x 35 sented a brief on pension issues to The extra 0.1 in the post-1992 years = 70 percent on the best five him. The four major issues, in no service is being paid by active year average. Over the years, the particular order of importance, teachers, not by the government. index of years of service and age included representation, rollbacks, Other provinces provide a higher has dropped to 85 with no other cost of living adjustment (COLA) COLA payment to their teachers. adjustments. A bridging clause and a bridging clause. Allow me to We are asking the government would give teachers with 35 years explain briefly each of these issues to look at ways of improving the of service, but less than age 65, a and let you know what you can do COLA payment so that retirees full two-year pension. The “bridge” to help us achieve them. can keep up with the rising costs of would be in effect from age 55 to goods and services. Under the cur- any age up to 65. At age 65 the Representation rent Memorandum of Agreement, Canada Pension payments would Currently there are 22,899 retired neither the ATA nor the government start and the teachers’ pension pay- teachers receiving an Alberta teach- can negotiate any money issues for ment would be reduced accordingly. ers’ pension. They range in age from the next five years—another reason Alberta and Manitoba are the only 55 to 102. Still, we have no voice for representation! two provinces that don’t have a at the negotiating table. The ATA bridging clause in effect today. represents us but none of the ongo- Rollbacks ing discussions take into account Those of us who were still teaching What Can We Do? the concerns of those of us who are between 1993 and 1998 had our One or more of these four issues retired and encountering difficulties. salaries rolled back five percent. affect each Alberta retired teacher
26 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views in some way. All of us can make choices and become proactive when it comes to issues affecting our pen- sion. We have some of our older colleagues (older than 85, for example) whose pension income is very meagre. We need a voice! Find out about pension issues, talk about them at your daily or weekly gath- erings, attend your branch functions, invite your branch pension repre- sentative to speak to your group, invite your MLA to meet with you and explain to him or her about your needs as retired Alberta teach- ers or join a political party and Expires 06/20/09. volunteer in the constituency office. Spread the word! Become involved!
Yes, that’s a sparkling wine bottle in the background! The OKARTA branch went on a wine tour to Summerhill Pyramid Winery in Kelowna, October 2008. It is one of Canada’s most visited wineries and has the largest certified organic vineyard. Our trip included a tour through a pyramid that is an exact replica of Cheops, the Great Pyramid in Egypt, where the wines are aged under its mystical powers. A great time was had by all.
Photograph by Fred Resler Photograph by Fred
(front); Ron Rhine, Marty and Jan March, Edelone Ball: (middle); Christine MacKenzie, Irene Leeck, Marilyn Resler: (back); Roger Nicholson, Ken Werenka, Tony Denney, Ernie Leeck
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 27 “Brownie”—Remembering Geneva Corabelle Anderson (née Brown)
by James F. Lavers
“Well, if I did nothing else in of Devonshire have shown such We had music appreciation, pastel teaching, at least I taught Audrey interest in educational work.” chalk art classes and a play that Johannson to read.” But getting an advanced education she wrote, which we performed and This statement came from a was not easy. First she had to com- which was selected to be “replayed” ninety-one-year-old sitting with her plete high school at Trochu by fifty years later at the ‘Hanna home coming.’ A vital system of integrated husband of sixty-two years in their working for her board and room. learning, a truly progressive school; beautiful condominium overlooking Fortuitously, a local merchant we studied everything from Eskimos the skyline of Toronto. needed family help in Calgary so Brownie took her housekeeping as to asbestos to tar sands—letters A long, long way in space, time and well as academic skills to Calgary written by us for information. accomplishment for Geneva Corabelle and the Normal School. “My, that Everyone progressed mightily, Brown who, born in Cedar Springs, was hard but one of the best years including Audrey Johannson. Missouri, in 1906, came by covered of my life. I actually learned some- Mrs. Anderson continued to teach wagon with her parents to Alix, thing about teaching and got some south of Calgary until family edu- Alberta, at the age of twelve. good advice—’don’t wear out your cation pursuits necessitated a move Covered wagon? “My parents were welcome. Stay in one school for to Toronto. North York became her the most self-sufficient pair I ever three years, then move’—so that is second educational home where she knew. They never got electricity but what I did.” Next Ms. Brown went revolutionized the teaching of phonics, we lived well—lots to eat and I had back to her ‘home district’ to teach voice training and special education, a horse to ride to school bareback. I “with some trepidation,” she said, and introduced the enterprise system. wasn’t very good in school to begin adding, “All they could do was The University of Chicago heard with. I think my dad was a math throw me out if I wasn’t any good.” of her work and tried to enlist her whiz because he taught me arith- In preparation for her contract, she services, mainly for her capacity to metic at home but I didn’t know bought, first, a piano, then a ukulele teach reading, but self-deprecating, much else when I landed in Alix and, finally, a car. She intuited then she remarked, “I was too busy. I school. The superintendent and the that education is incomplete with- never got round to it.” principal put me back two grades out the arts. Within two years she was principal of the school, a first That’s right, Brownie, too busy but I caught up by Christmas and helping others to bother with power then they promoted me again so for Alberta. “A nice young fellow from Ontario, with a university positions—getting her husband to that I finished four grades in a little drive her to school when eyesight over a year—it was fun.” degree, couldn’t control the big boys, so he left. I thought ‘I’ll give it dimmed so that she could work with After that academically, culturally a try’—so I stayed in that position non-readers “in my basement closet”. and pedagogically, she never looked for three years like I said I would.” Later, “I’m a Westerner, I’ll get back. Later her success at another small back there.” She did—her gravesite A letter, extant, thanks H. J. high school, Scotfield, east of is in Alix. Spicer, Registrar, Department of Hanna, led to marriage, childbirth A remarkable achiever, she was a Education, November 5, 1921, and teaching for several years in model of modern, practical peda- for the Governor General’s Medal my home town, Grades one to nine. gogy that a host of others and I use received “. . . October 29. I appreci- When Aberhardt’s “enterprise sys- to this very day as a benchmark for ated it very highly and am gratified tem” swept through the province, our processes of self and educa- to know that the Duke and Duchess Mrs. Anderson was more than ready. tional enlightenment.
28 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Notices
Golf Tournament Special thanks go to Downtown The book tells of a skirmish in Tim Hortons of Red Deer, Ponoka Haiti and brings to life new infor- The 15th annual To Hell with the Community Golf and Country Club, mation about the ill-fated Nayres Bell Golf Tournament kicked off on Henry’s Eavestroughing of Red Deer, Expedition to the Arctic in 1875, September 2, 2008, at the Ponoka Ron Olney (Sun Life) and Johnson’s where a number of men died Community Golf and Country Club. Insurance, major sponsors of the from scurvy. An inquiry followed. Sixty-eight male, retired teachers event. Thanks also go to the rest of Included in the book are many beau- from all over central Alberta the sponsors who generously tiful watercolours that were done attended. They were treated to donated enough prizes so that every by Dr. Moss during his travels. excellent weather and a superbly golfer went home with something. manicured golf course. The low For further information go to Anyone wishing to get on the mailing www.uofcpress.com and scroll down. gross winner was Bob Nelson of list and join this year’s tourna- Red Deer with a net 66, followed by ment is encouraged to contact Ron Bill Elliot of Wetaskiwin with a net Hitchings at 403-343-6543 or ARTA—Johnson 68. Low net winner was Brian Wayne Brenna 403-347-5479. Martin of Ponoka with a 77. Golfers Scholarships in attendance were from Red Deer, Stettler, Rocky Mountain House, Book review Deadline for applications—July 31, Lacombe, Ponoka, Wetaskiwin, 2009 Edmonton, Alberta Beach, Camrose Resurrecting Dr. Moss: The life and ARTA manages a $5,000 annual and Nipawin, Saskatchewan. letters of a Royal Navy Surgeon, ARTA—Johnson scholarship fund. All of the golfers and sponsors had Edward Lawton Moss MA, RN, ARTA selects students from post- 1847–1880 by Paul Appleton a great time. This year the tourna- secondary institutions as recipients. ment raised $1,700 for prostate Paul Appleton was a high school Applications must be sponsored by cancer research, bringing the total teacher at Bowness and Sir relatives who are ARTA members. in the last seven years to approxi- Winston Churchill. After his short mately $14,000. With this kind illness and death two years ago, his Application forms and criteria are of support perhaps a cure will be book Resurrecting Dr. Moss went available by writing to: found for this disease. to the University of Calgary Press ARTA, #409, 11010 – 142 Street, Next year the tournament will be held and has recently become available N.W., Edmonton. AB T5N 2R1 in Ponoka on Tuesday, September 1. at Chapters and the University or may be downloaded from ARTA’s All male, retired teachers are Bookstore. After Paul found Dr. website at www.albertarta.org. encouraged to join this worthwhile Moss’s medical records at the cause and have a great time. Esquimalt Naval Archives, he was able to track down the great-grand- Pension Deposit Dates children in England and received a shoe box of 50 letters. Your pension payments are made electronically on the third last The book is largely based on the sensitive and articulate let- business day of each month except ters that Dr. Moss wrote home to December. The dates for 2009 are his mother in Ireland. He was a as follows: British naval medical officer who January 28, February 25, March 27, was instrumental in setting up the April 28, May 27, June 26, July 29, Bob Nelson first hospital during his stay on August 27, September 28, October 28, Vancouver Island 1871–75. November 26, December 22.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 29 The Fine Print: ARTA does not endorse these Volunteer/Job Opportunities nor accepts any liability whatsoever for any consequences of anyone participating in the opportunities/jobs presented on this website. Please exercise your own due diligence when contacting any of the organizations/persons listed below. ARTA presents these opportunities strictly as information to members.
Skyline Hikers of the Canadian Rockies 2009 Hike— Advertising Rates—News & Views Whiteman Pass Please send ads to: [email protected] Actual Colour No of Price Includes Come hike with us in this remote Description Dimension or B/W Isssues Per Issue Website ad alpine location. A choice of 5 or 6 Full Page 6¾” x 9½ Colour 1 $1,100 30 days hikes are offered daily from our Full Page 6¾” x 9½ Colour 4 $750 365 days base camp. Camps are held weekly Full Page 6¾” x 9½ B/W 1 $800 30 days Full Page 6¾” x 9½ B/W 4 $650 365 days in July and August. For further 5 3 col Half Page 4 /8” x 6¾ Colour 1 $550 30 days 5 information contact: 3 col Half Page 4 /8” x 6¾ Colour 4 $375 365 days 5 Email: [email protected] 3 col Half Page 4 /8” x 6¾ B/W 1 $400 30 days 5 3 col Half Page 4 /8” x 6¾ B/W 4 $275 365 days Web: www.skylinehikers.ca 5 2 col Half Page 4 /8” x 7” Colour 1 $578 30 days 5 2 col Half Page 4 /8” x 7” Colour 4 $380 365 days 5 2 col Half Page 4 /8” x 7” B/W 1 $410 30 days 5 2 col Half Page 4 /8” x 7” B/W 4 $280 365 days Unique Volunteer Opportunity 5 Quarter page 3¼” x 4 /8” Colour 1 $275 30 days 5 The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Quarter page 3¼” x 4 /8” Colour 4 $200 365 days 5 Quarter page 3¼” x 4 /8” B/W 1 $250 30 days in Edmonton needs former teachers to 5 Quarter page 3¼” x 4 /8” B/W 4 $175 365 days volunteer to present a unique program 1 Column Vert 2¼” x 7” Colour 1 $261 30 days for elementary students about children 1 Column Vert 2¼” x 7” Colour 4 $200 365 day with disabilities. A vehicle (we will 1 Column Vert 2¼” x 7” B/W 1 $235 30 days pay mileage) and a time commitment 1 Column Vert 2¼” x 7” B/W 4 $175 365 days of approximately 2–3 hours per week 3 col Horiz Banner 2” x 7” Colour 1 $261 30 days are required. For more information 3 col Horiz Banner 2” x 7” Colour 4 $195 365 day please contact Volunteer Coordinator 3 col Horiz Banner 2” x 7” B/W 1 $230 30 days 3 col Horiz Banner 2” x 7” B/W 4 $180 365 days Daryl Richel, at 780‑735‑7986 or 2 column Horz 3½” x 4½” Colour 1 $289 30 days [email protected]. 2 column Horz 3½” x 4½” Colour 4 $250 365 day 2 column Horz 3½” x 4½” B/W 1 $245 30 days 2 column Horz 3½” x 4½” B/W 4 $220 365 days 1 Column Vert or Horiz 2¼” x 4½” Colour 1 $174 30 days Tour China 1 Column Vert or Horiz 2¼” x 4½” Colour 4 $150 365 day 1 Column Vert or Horiz 2¼” x 4½” B/W 1 $145 30 days AMA Travel along with Viking 1 Column Vert or Horiz 2¼” x 4½” B/W 4 $120 365 days River Cruises are pleased to pres- 1 Column Vert or Horz 2¼” x 2¼” Colour 1 $87 30 days ent China and the Yangtze River, 1 Column Vert or Horz 2¼” x 2¼” Colour 4 $62 365 day September 9th–27th, 2009. For 1 Column Vert or Horz 2¼” x 2¼” B/W 1 $65 30 days more details on this incredible tour, 1 Column Vert or Horz 2¼” x 2¼” B/W 4 $45 365 days please call Ken Potter in Calgary at Classified Ads: Minimum 20 words, maximum 50 words 403-240-5392 or Julie Bekdashe Classified Rates: ARTA members–$1.00 per word, non members–$2.00 per word in Edmonton at 780-474-8656. Website Ads: undergoing price review—prices to be posted later
30 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Affinity Program for Members January 1, 2009
Keep this directory for future use. There may not be a replacement for some time.
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 31 Enterprise is ARTA’s Corporate Partner for car rentals. Enterprise NORTHERN ALBERTA operates in the Alberta locations Edmonton South 3859 – 99 Street 780-440-4550 listed below and also across the U.S., South East 7615 Argyll Road 780-495-1205 Europe and some other countries. South Central 4517 Gateway Blvd NW 780-415-4350 Corporate Class Name: ARTA West 10222 – 178 Street 780-483-1668 Corporate Class Number: 5CA3528 West Edmonton Mall #1381, 8882 – 170 Street 780-484-3448 Downtown 10172 – 111 Street 780-424-1105 North 8558 – 126 Avenue 780-477-1717 Three ways to make reservations North West 10907 – 156 Street 780-489-7577 1. Book your reservation online Leduc (Edmonton Airport) Bay #2, 6112 – 45 Street 780-986-0548 Camrose 4718 – 44 Street 780-608-4110 Simply visit the Enterprise web- Fort McMurray 530 Mackenzie Blvd 780-791-2468 site, www.enterprise.com and click Fort McMurray Airport In Terminal 780-791-2468 on the corporate accounts link, Fort Saskatchewan 11128 – 86 Avenue 780-992-6790 then click on making a reserva- Grande Prairie 12712 – 100 Street 780-538-8444 tion. Enter your Corporate Class Grande Prairie Airport In Terminal 780-538-8444 Number (5CA3528) and the first Lloydminster 5115 – 24 Avenue 780-871-2883 three letters of your organization’s Lloydminster Airport In Terminal 780-871-2883 Sherwood Park 161 Senica Road 780-416-8880 name. You have now signed in and Spruce Grove 120 Saint Matthews Ave, #5 780-960-9202 can make a reservation. Your PIN St. Albert 184 St. Albert Road 780-419-3984 number is the first three characters of your organization’s name (ART). SOUTHERN ALBERTA Calgary 2. Local Reservations Calgary Airport In Terminal 403-216-3426 You may call your local rental South 7820 Macleod Trail South 403-252-0222 branch directly to make a reser- South Central 4628 Macleod Trail South 403-243-2100 vation. Please find below a list of South Bannister Road 14371 Macleod Trail South 403-216-3630 branch locations in Alberta. South Douglesglen 500, 11488 -- 24 Street SE 403-720-1916 West-Bowness 4603 – 16 Avenue NW 403-202-8720 3. Corporate Class Call Centre Downtown West 828 – 4 Avenue SW 403-263-1273 If you prefer, you can arrange out of Downtown Central 119 – 12 Avenue SW 403-212-5232 town rentals through the Corporate North East Bay #5, 2520 – 23 Street NE 403-735-6080 North Central 4804 – Edmonton Trail NE 403-282-9881 Class Call Centre Service by calling North West – Northland 5100 Shaganappi Trail NW 403-216-3346 1-800-593-0505. You will require North West – Crowfoot #157 – 64 Crowfoot Circle NW 403-241-7053 your Corporate Class Number Airdrie 220 East Lake Blvd, Bay #2 403-912-3680 (5CA3528). Canmore 501 Bow Valley Trail 403-609-5335 Cochrane 544 Railway Street 403-932-0493 ARTA Card—Please remember Lethbridge 525 Mayor Magrath Drive S 403-328-3517 to bring your ARTA card with you Medicine Hat Bay A, 1071 Trans-Canada Way SE 403-526-8064 to verify ARTA membership upon Okotoks 197 Stockton Avenue 403-938-8677 request. Red Deer South 3422 – 50 Avenue 403-347-5145 Red Deer North #100 – 4770 Riverside Drive 403-348-2550 Rates are available for both busi- Strathmore 1040 Westridge Road 403-934-2100 ness and personal.
32 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views LensCrafters offers 30 percent discount on most products to ARTA members upon presentation of ARTA card. Please phone your nearest LensCrafters store for more information
PARK’NFLY operates across Canada and the United States. Upon presentation of ARTA card and code, ARTA members receive a 25 percent discount on parking. Note: Most of these parking facilities are nearby but off airport sites and provide free shuttle service.
Examples: Ottawa Edmonton Montreal Halifax Toronto 613-247-1014 780-986-9080 514-631-3359 902-873-4574 Self-park 905-677-9143 Self-park Valet Self-park 3600 Uplands Dr 8410-43 St. Leduc 668 Barnes Dr Valet 12155 Côte de Liesse 5815 Airport Rd Vancouver Express A Corporate Code: Self-park Calgary 604-270-9476 700 Rue Marshall 31724 933 Dixon Rd 403-250-6533 Valet Express B Please use this code when Economy Self-park 6380 Miller Road 630 ave Michel booking 626 Dixon Rd 9100 Barlow Trail NE Long term Valet Jasmin
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ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 33 34 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Alb erta Ontario Brooks 403-362-8000 Barrie on Bayfield 705-722-4466 Calgary Int'. Airport (Hotel) 403-291-1260 Barrie 705-734-9500 Calgary Macleod Trail (Hotel) 403-253-7070 Bracebridge 705-645-2235 Calgary North 403-289-0211 Brockville 613-345-3900 Calgary South 403-253-1111 Burlington on the Lake (Hotel) 905-681-0762 Calgary University North 403-289-6600 Cambridge 519-622-1180 Clar es holm 403-625-3347 Chatham 519-436-1200 Cochrane 403-932-5588 Cochrane South, Thriftlodge 705-272-4281 Drumheller 403-823-5302 Guelph 519-836-1331 Edmonton East 780-474-0456 Huntsville 705-789-5504 Edmonton South 780-436-9770 Kenora 807-468-3155 Edmonton West 780-483-6031 Kingston Lasalle (Hotel) 613-546-4233 Edmonton In't Airport/Leduc 780-986-2264 Kitchener, Thriftlodge 519-742-7900 Edmonton / Stony Plain (Hotel) 780-963-1161 London South 519-681-1200 Lethbridge 403-329-0100 Marathon 807-229-1213 Alb erta Medicine Hat (Hotel) 403-527-2275Ontario Niagara Falls - At the Falls,Thriftlodge 905-357-2200 Brooks 403-362-8000Red Deer Barrie on Bayfield 403-346-2011 Niagara Falls705-722-4466 - At the Falls 905-357-4330 Calgary Int'. Airport (Hotel) 403-291-1260Strathmore Barrie 403-901-0000 Niagara Falls705-734-9500 - Bonaventure 905-374-7171 Calgary Macleod Trail (Hotel) 403-253-7070 Bracebridge Niagara 705-645-2235Falls - By the Falls (Hotel) 905-356-2842 Calgary North 403-289-0211 BritishBrockville Columbia North Bay613-345-3900 705-495-1133 Calgary South 403-253-1111CampbellAlb erta River Burlington on the Lake250-286-6622 (Hotel) Lakeshore905-681-0762Ontario (North Bay) 705-472-7171 Calgary UniversityAlberta North Brooks 403-289-6600Chilliwack 403-362-8000Cambridge 604-792-4240Barrie on BayfieldOntarioToronto North519-622-1180 York 705-722-4466 416-663-9500 Clar es holm 403-625-3347 Chatham 519-436-1200 Brooks Calgary Int'.403-362-8000 Airport (Hotel)Courtenay 403-291-1260Barrie on Bayfield250-334-4491Barrie Os hawa 705-722-4466705-734-9500 905-436-9500 CochraneAlberta RetiredCalgary Teachers’ Macleod403-932-5588 Trail AssociationDuncan (Hotel) (Silver Bridge) (ARTA)403-253-7070Cochrane members South, Thriftlodge250-748-4311 receiveBracebridge a 15% discountOttawa East705-272-4281 / Gloucester 705-645-2235 613-745-1133 Calgary Int'. Airport (Hotel) 403-291-1260 Barrie 705-734-9500 Drumheller on hotelCalgary room North rates403-823-5302 atFernie over Three 90 Sisters Travelodge403-289-0211Guelph locations250-423-4438Brockville across Canada.Ottawa Hotel519-836-1331 & Conference Centre613-345-3900 613-722-7600 Calgary MacleodEdmonton Trail East (Hotel) Calgary South403-253-7070780-474-0456Golden 403-253-1111BracebridgeHuntsville 250-344-2291Burlington on the LakeOttawa (Hotel) Downtown705-789-5504 Doral705-645-2235 Inn 905-681-0762 613-230-8055 Calgary NorthEdmonton South Calgary University403-289-0211780-436-9770 NorthKamloops 403-289-6600BrockvilleKenora 250-372-8202Cambridge Owen Sound807-468-3155613-345-3900519-622-1180 519-371-9297 EdmontonIn orderWest to obtain these specially780-483-6031 negotiated rates,Kingston ARTA Lasalle members (Hotel) must book their rooms613-546-4233 Calgary South Clar es holm403-253-1111Kamloops Mountview403-625-3347Burlington on the250-374-4788 LakeChatham (Hotel) Pembroke 905-681-0762519-436-1200 613-735-6868 Edmontonin advance In't Airport/Leduc by callingCochrane 1-800-578-7878780-986-2264Kamloops, Thriftlodge or through403-932-5588Kitchener, the Thriftlodge website250-374-2488 at Cochranewww.travelodge.ca South, ThriftlodgeSault Ste. 519-742-7900and Marie (City Centre) 705-272-4281 705-759-1400 Calgary University North 403-289-6600 Cambridge 519-622-1180 Edmontonquote/enter / Stony Plain the (Hotel)Drumheller ARTA Client780-963-1161 IDKelowna # 1000006371.403-823-5302London Same South day reservations250-763-7771Guelph may be Scarboroughaccepted,519-681-1200 / Toronto East 519-836-1331 416-299-9500 Clar es holm Lethbridge Edmonton403-625-3347 East 403-329-0100Langley 780-474-0456ChathamMarathon 604-888-4891Huntsville Simcoe 807-229-1213519-436-1200705-789-5504 519-426-4751 Cochrane Medicine Hat (Hotel)but youEdmonton must 403-932-5588use South the403-527-2275 tollLangley free City number780-436-9770 orCochraneNiagara the Fallswebsite South, - At the 604-533-4431to ThriftlodgeFalls,Thriftlodge obtainKenora the discount.St. Catharines905-357-2200705-272-4281807-468-3155 905-688-1646 Drumheller Red Deer Edmonton403-823-5302 West403-346-2011Maple Ridge 780-483-6031GuelphNiagara Falls - At the604-467-1511 Falls Kingston Lasalle (Hotel)Sudbury905-357-4330 (Hotel) 519-836-1331613-546-4233 705-522-1100 Strathmore Edmonton In't Airport/Leduc403-901-0000Merritt 780-986-2264Niagara Falls - Bonaventure250-378-8830Kitchener, Thriftlodge Thunder905-374-7171 Bay, Airlane (Hotel) 519-742-7900 807-473-1600 Edmonton East 780-474-0456 Huntsville 705-789-5504 Edmonton / Stony PlainNanaim (Hotel) o 780-963-1161Niagara Falls - By the250-754-6355 FallsLondon (Hotel) South Thunder 905-356-2842Bay 519-681-1200 807-345-2343 Edmonton South 780-436-9770 Kenora 807-468-3155 Alberta BritishAlb LethbridgeColumbia erta Parksville (Oceanview)403-329-0100North Bay 250-248-2232MarathonOntario Timmins705-495-1133 807-229-1213 705-360-1122 Edmonton WestBrooksCampbell River Medicine780-483-6031 Hat (Hotel)403-362-8000250-286-6622Penticton 403-527-2275BarrieKingstonLakeshore on Bayfield (North Lasalle Bay)250-492-0225 (Hotel)Niagara Falls - At the Falls,ThriftlodgeToronto 705-722-4466705-472-7171Airport Hotel613-546-4233 (Dixon Road)905-357-2200 416-674-2222 Edmonton In't CalgaryChilliwackAirport/Leduc Int'. Airport (Hotel)Red Deer780-986-2264403-291-1260604-792-4240Prince George 403-346-2011BarrieKitchener,Toronto North Thriftlodge York 250-563-0666Niagara Falls - At the FallsToronto Downtown705-734-9500416-663-9500 West519-742-7900905-357-4330 416-504-7441 Courtenay Strathmore 250-334-4491Ques nel 403-901-0000Os hawa 250-992-7071Niagara Falls - BonaventureTrenton 905-436-9500 905-374-7171 613-965-6789 Edmonton / StonyCalgary Plain Macleod (Hotel) Trail (Hotel) 780-963-1161403-253-7070 BracebridgeLondon South 705-645-2235519-681-1200 Duncan (Silver Bridge) 250-748-4311Salmon Arm Ottawa East / Gloucester250-832-9721Niagara Falls - By the WindsorFalls (Hotel) 613-745-1133Ambassador Bridge 905-356-2842 519-972-1100 Lethbridge Calgary North 403-329-0100403-289-0211 BrockvilleMarathon 613-345-3900807-229-1213 CalgaryFernie Three South Sisters 403-253-1111250-423-4438BritishVancouver Columbia Airport (Hotel)BurlingtonOttawa Hotel on & the Conference Lake604-278-5155 (Hotel)North Centre Bay Windsor905-681-0762613-722-7600 Downtown (Hotel) 705-495-1133 519-258-7774 Medicine HatCalgaryGolden (Hotel) University North Campbell403-527-2275 River 403-289-6600250-344-2291Vancouver Lion's Gate250-286-6622CambridgeNiagaraOttawa Downtown Falls - AtDoral604-985-5311 the Inn Falls,ThriftlodgeLakeshore (North Bay) 519-622-1180613-230-8055905-357-2200705-472-7171 Red Deer ClarKamloops es holm Chilliwack403-346-2011403-625-3347250-372-8202Vernon 604-792-4240ChathamNiagaraOwen Sound Falls - At250-545-2161 the FallsToronto North York 519-436-1200519-371-9297905-357-4330Quebec416-663-9500 Strathmore CochraneKamloops Mountview Courtenay403-901-0000403-932-5588250-374-4788Victoria Airport Sidney250-334-4491CochraneNiagaraPembroke South,Falls -Thriftlodge Bonaventure250-656-1176Os hawa Montreal705-272-4281613-735-6868 Aeroport Montreal905-374-7171 Trudeau905-436-9500 Airport 514-631-4537 DrumhellerKamloops, Thriftlodge Duncan (Silver Bridge)403-823-5302250-374-2488Victoria 250-748-4311GuelphSault Ste. Marie (City250-388-6611 Centre)Ottawa East / GloucesterHotel Montreal519-836-1331705-759-1400 Centre 613-745-1133 514-874-9090 Niagara Falls - By the Falls (Hotel) 905-356-2842 EdmontonKelowna East Fernie Three Sisters780-474-0456250-763-7771 250-423-4438HuntsvilleScarborough / Toronto EastOttawa Hotel & ConferenceSt. Sauveur Centre705-789-5504416-299-9500 613-722-7600 450-227-4628 EdmontonLangleyBritish South ColumbiaGolden 780-436-9770604-888-4891Saskatchewan 250-344-2291SaskatchewanKenoraNorthSimcoe Bay Ottawa Downtown Doral Inn 807-468-3155519-426-4751705-495-1133613-230-8055 Langley City 604-533-4431 St. Catharines 905-688-1646 Campbell RiverEdmonton West Kamloops250-286-6622780-483-6031Melfort 250-372-8202KingstonLakeshore Lasalle (North (Hotel)306-752-5961 Bay)Owen Sound 613-546-4233705-472-7171Manitoba519-371-9297 Maple Ridge 604-467-1511 Sudbury (Hotel) 705-522-1100 Chilliwack Edmonton In't Airport/LeducKamloops604-792-4240 Mountview780-986-2264Moose Jaw 250-374-4788Kitchener,Toronto NorthThriftlodge York306-692-1884Pembroke Winnipeg519-742-7900 East 416-663-9500613-735-6868 204-255-6000 Merritt Kamloops, Thriftlodge250-378-8830 250-374-2488Thunder Bay, Airlane (Hotel)Sault Ste. Marie (City Centre) 807-473-1600 705-759-1400 Courtenay Edmonton / Stony Plain (Hotel) 250-334-4491780-963-1161Prince Albert LondonOs hawa South 306-764-6441 Winnipeg,519-681-1200 Thriftlodge 905-436-9500 204-786-3471 LethbridgeNanaim o Kelowna 403-329-0100250-754-6355Regina (Hotel) 250-763-7771MarathonThunder Bay 306-586-3443Scarborough / Toronto East 807-229-1213807-345-2343 416-299-9500 Parksville (Oceanview) 250-248-2232 Timmins 705-360-1122 Duncan (SilverMedicine Bridge) Hat (Hotel) Langley 250-748-4311403-527-2275Saskatoon, Thriftlodge604-888-4891NiagaraOttawa Falls East - At/ Gloucesterthe306-244-2191 Falls,ThriftlodgeSimcoe 905-357-2200613-745-1133519-426-4751 Fernie Three SistersRedPenticton Deer Langley City250-423-4438403-346-2011250-492-0225Saskatoon (Hotel) 604-533-4431NiagaraOttawaToronto FallsAirport Hotel - At Hotel &the 306-242-8881Conference Falls (DixonSt. Catharines Road) Centre 905-357-4330416-674-2222613-722-7600905-688-1646 StrathmorePrince George Maple Ridge 403-901-0000250-563-0666Swift Current 604-467-1511NiagaraToronto DowntownFalls - Bonaventure West306-773-3101Sudbury (Hotel) 905-374-7171416-504-7441 705-522-1100 Golden Ques nel 250-344-2291250-992-7071 OttawaTrenton Downtown Doral Inn 613-965-6789613-230-8055 Merritt Weyburn 250-378-8830Niagara Falls - By the306-842-1411 FallsThunder (Hotel) Bay, Airlane (Hotel) 905-356-2842 807-473-1600 Kamloops Salmon Arm 250-372-8202250-832-9721 OwenWindsor Sound Ambassador Bridge 519-972-1100519-371-9297 British Columbia British NanaimColumbia o 250-754-6355North Bay Thunder Bay 705-495-1133 807-345-2343 Kamloops MountviewVancouver Airport (Hotel) 250-374-4788604-278-5155 PembrokeWindsor Downtown (Hotel) 519-258-7774613-735-6868 CampbellAlb erta River Parksville (Oceanview)250-286-6622OntarioBOLD INDICATES TRAVELODGE250-248-2232Lakeshore HOTEL TIEROntario (North Bay) Timmins 705-472-7171 705-360-1122 Vancouver Lion's Gate 604-985-5311 BrooksKamloops, ThriftlodgeChilliwack 403-362-8000Penticton250-374-2488604-792-4240Barrie on Bayfield 250-492-0225TorontoSault Ste. North Marie York (City Centre)Toronto 705-722-4466Airport Hotel (Dixon Road)416-663-9500705-759-1400416-674-2222 CalgaryKelowna Int'. Airport (Hotel)CourtenayVernon 403-291-1260Prince George250-763-7771250-334-4491250-545-2161Barrie 250-563-0666OsScarborough hawa / TorontoToronto EastQuebec Downtown705-734-9500 West 905-436-9500416-299-9500416-504-7441 Victoria Airport Sidney 250-656-1176 Montreal Aeroport Montreal Trudeau Airport 514-631-4537 CalgaryLangley Macleod TrailDuncan (Hotel) (Silver Bridge)403-253-7070Ques nel 604-888-4891250-748-4311Bracebridge 250-992-7071OttawaSimcoe East / Gloucester Trenton 705-645-2235 613-745-1133519-426-4751613-965-6789 Victoria Salmon Arm 250-388-6611 250-832-9721Hotel Montreal Centre Windsor Ambassador Bridge 514-874-9090 519-972-1100 CalgaryLangley North City Fernie Three Sisters403-289-0211 604-533-4431250-423-4438Brockville OttawaSt. Catharines Hotel & Conference Centre613-345-3900 613-722-7600905-688-1646 Calgary South Golden 403-253-1111Vancouver Airport250-344-2291 (Hotel)Burlington on the Lake604-278-5155OttawaSt. (Hotel) Sauveur Downtown Doral InnWindsor905-681-0762 Downtown (Hotel) 613-230-8055450-227-4628 519-258-7774 CalgaryMaple University Ridge NorthKamloops 403-289-6600SaskatchewanVancouver604-467-1511 Lion's250-372-8202 GateCambridge 604-985-5311OwenSudbury Sound (Hotel) 519-622-1180 519-371-9297705-522-1100 Clar esMerritt holm KamloopsMelfort Mountview403-625-3347Vernon 250-378-8830250-374-4788306-752-5961Chatham 250-545-2161PembrokeThunder Bay, AirlaneQuebec (Hotel)Manitoba519-436-1200 613-735-6868Quebec 807-473-1600 CochraneNanaim o Kamloops,Moose Jaw Thriftlodge403-932-5588Victoria Airport250-754-6355 Sidney250-374-2488306-692-1884Cochrane South, Thriftlodge250-656-1176SaultWinnipegThunder Ste. East MarieBay (City Centre)Montreal705-272-4281 Aeroport Montreal Trudeau705-759-1400204-255-6000 Airport 807-345-2343514-631-4537 Drumheller Prince Albert 403-823-5302Victoria 306-764-6441Guelph 250-388-6611Winnipeg, Thriftlodge Hotel Montreal519-836-1331 Centre 204-786-3471 514-874-9090 Parksville (Oceanview)Kelowna 250-248-2232250-763-7771 ScarboroughTimmins / Toronto East 416-299-9500705-360-1122 Edmonton East LangleyRegina (Hotel) 780-474-0456 604-888-4891306-586-3443Huntsville Simcoe St. Sauveur705-789-5504 519-426-4751 450-227-4628 EdmontonPenticton South LangleySaskatoon, City Thriftlodge780-436-9770 250-492-0225604-533-4431306-244-2191SaskatchewanKenora St.Toronto Catharines Airport Hotel (Dixon807-468-3155 Road) 905-688-1646416-674-2222 EdmontonPrince West GeorgeMapleSaskatoon Ridge (Hotel) 780-483-6031Melfort 250-563-0666604-467-1511306-242-8881Kingston Lasalle (Hotel)306-752-5961SudburyToronto (Hotel) Downtown WestManitoba613-546-4233 Manitoba705-522-1100416-504-7441 EdmontonQues In't nel Airport/LeducMerrittSwift Current 780-986-2264Moose Jaw250-992-7071250-378-8830306-773-3101Kitchener, Thriftlodge306-692-1884ThunderTrenton Bay, Airlane (Hotel)Winnipeg519-742-7900 East 807-473-1600613-965-6789204-255-6000 EdmontonSalmon / Stony Arm PlainNanaimWeyburn (Hotel) o 780-963-1161Prince Albert250-832-9721250-754-6355306-842-1411London South 306-764-6441ThunderWindsor Bay Ambassador Winnipeg,Bridge519-681-1200 Thriftlodge 807-345-2343519-972-1100204-786-3471 Lethbridge Parksville (Oceanview)403-329-0100Regina (Hotel) 250-248-2232Marathon 306-586-3443Timmins 807-229-1213 705-360-1122 MedicineVancouver Hat (Hotel) AirportBOLDPenticton INDICATES (Hotel) TRAVELODGE403-527-2275 HOTELSaskatoon, TIER 604-278-5155 Thriftlodge250-492-0225Niagara Falls - At the306-244-2191 Falls,ThriftlodgeTorontoWindsor Airport Downtown Hotel (Dixon (Hotel) Road)905-357-2200 416-674-2222519-258-7774 Red DeerVancouver Lion'sPrince Gate George 403-346-2011Saskatoon604-985-5311 (Hotel)250-563-0666Niagara Falls - At the306-242-8881 FallsToronto Downtown West 905-357-4330 416-504-7441 StrathmoreVernon Ques nel 403-901-0000Swift Current250-545-2161250-992-7071Niagara Falls - Bonaventure306-773-3101Trenton 905-374-7171Quebec 613-965-6789 Victoria AirportSalmon Sidney Arm Weyburn250-656-1176250-832-9721Niagara Falls - By the306-842-1411WindsorMontreal Falls (Hotel) Ambassador Aeroport Bridge Montreal Trudeau905-356-2842 Airport 519-972-1100514-631-4537 BritishVancouver Columbia Airport (Hotel) 604-278-5155North Bay Windsor Downtown (Hotel) 705-495-1133 519-258-7774 CampbellVictoria River Vancouver Lion's Gate250-286-6622BOLD INDICATES250-388-6611 TRAVELODGE604-985-5311Lakeshore HOTEL TIER (North Bay)Hotel Montreal Centre 705-472-7171 514-874-9090 Chilliwack Vernon 604-792-4240 250-545-2161Toronto North York St. Sauveur Quebec416-663-9500 450-227-4628 Courtenay Victoria SaskatchewanAirport Sidney250-334-4491 250-656-1176Os hawa Montreal Aeroport Montreal Trudeau905-436-9500 Airport 514-631-4537 Duncan (Silver Bridge)Victoria 250-748-4311 250-388-6611Ottawa East / Gloucester 613-745-1133 514-874-9090 Melfort 306-752-5961 Hotel Montreal Centre Manitoba Fernie Three Sisters 250-423-4438 Ottawa Hotel & ConferenceSt. Sauveur Centre 613-722-7600 450-227-4628 GoldenMoose Jaw 250-344-2291Saskatchewan306-692-1884Ottawa Downtown DoralWinnipeg Inn East 613-230-8055 204-255-6000 KamloopsPrince Albert Melfort 250-372-8202 306-764-6441306-752-5961Owen Sound Winnipeg, Thriftlodge Manitoba519-371-9297 204-786-3471 KamloopsRegina Mountview (Hotel)Moose Jaw 250-374-4788ALBERTA306-586-3443 RETIRED306-692-1884Pembroke TEACHERS’Winnipeg ASSOCIATION East 613-735-6868 204-255-6000 Kamloops, Thriftlodge 250-374-2488 Sault Ste. Marie (City Centre) News 705-759-1400& Views 35 Saskatoon, ThriftlodgePrince Albert 306-244-2191306-764-6441 Winnipeg, Thriftlodge 204-786-3471 Kelowna 250-763-7771 306-586-3443Scarborough / Toronto East 416-299-9500 Regina (Hotel) 306-242-8881 LangleySaskatoon (Hotel)Saskatoon, Thriftlodge604-888-4891 306-244-2191Simcoe 519-426-4751 LangleySwift City Current Saskatoon (Hotel) 604-533-4431 306-773-3101306-242-8881St. Catharines 905-688-1646 MapleWeyburn Ridge Swift Current 604-467-1511 306-842-1411306-773-3101Sudbury (Hotel) 705-522-1100 Merritt Weyburn 250-378-8830 306-842-1411Thunder Bay, Airlane (Hotel) 807-473-1600 Nanaim o 250-754-6355 Thunder Bay 807-345-2343 BOLD INDICATES TRAVELODGE HOTEL TIER Parksville (Oceanview)BOLD INDICATES TRAVELODGE250-248-2232 HOTEL TIER Timmins 705-360-1122 Penticton 250-492-0225 Toronto Airport Hotel (Dixon Road) 416-674-2222 Prince George 250-563-0666 Toronto Downtown West 416-504-7441 Ques nel 250-992-7071 Trenton 613-965-6789 Salmon Arm 250-832-9721 Windsor Ambassador Bridge 519-972-1100 Vancouver Airport (Hotel) 604-278-5155 Windsor Downtown (Hotel) 519-258-7774 Vancouver Lion's Gate 604-985-5311 Vernon 250-545-2161 Quebec Victoria Airport Sidney 250-656-1176 Montreal Aeroport Montreal Trudeau Airport 514-631-4537 Victoria 250-388-6611 Hotel Montreal Centre 514-874-9090 St. Sauveur 450-227-4628 Saskatchewan Melfort 306-752-5961 Manitoba Moose Jaw 306-692-1884 Winnipeg East 204-255-6000 Prince Albert 306-764-6441 Winnipeg, Thriftlodge 204-786-3471 Regina (Hotel) 306-586-3443 Saskatoon, Thriftlodge 306-244-2191 Saskatoon (Hotel) 306-242-8881 Swift Current 306-773-3101 Weyburn 306-842-1411
BOLD INDICATES TRAVELODGE HOTEL TIER Hotel Discount Rates
Hotels confirming ATA member rates for ARTA ARTA would like to express their thanks and appreciation to the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) in providing ARTA members with the following ATA hotel contacts to be used by ARTA members. While these hotels have agreed to recognize the ARTA membership card, in some cases where hotel records are not updated, you may have to identify yourself as a retired ATA member. Please note: These rates may be subject to change. They do not include taxes. However, you as an ARTA member will receive the best rates provided to ATA and ARTA members. Choice Hotels reservations There are two ways to make reservations using ARTA client ID# 00064576 1. Call our toll-free number 1-800-424-6423 or for service in French 1-800-BO-REVES and quote the ID#00064576 2. Visit our website at www.choicehotels.ca or www.albertarta.org and: • in the Quick Search section on the left side, click on Enter Your Special Rate ID • enter you Client Rate ID # 00064576 in the box and click “go.” ARTA’s welcome page will appear • Please note: If using the weblink from ARTA’s website to ours, the previous 2 steps are not applicable as the client ID# and SSPO rate is already embedded. • To find an hotel, enter the city name in the Location box along with a check-in and check-out date and click “go” The SSO rate code will automatically appear in the rate box. • A list of hotels will appear with rates on a 14-day calendar. The requested check-in date IS HIGHLIGHTED. By clicking on the rate of the arrival date, a new screen will open, allowing viewership for different room types and rates. Proceed to make reservations. • Clicking on the Hotel name will also give an overview of the hotel, hotel services and area info. To ensure members are receiving the correct rate it is important to make advance reservations.
ALBERTA Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge Brooks Banff (1-800-661-1379; 762-2307) Heritage Inn Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa $143 (delta) Jan 2–Jan 31 (1-888-888-4374; 403-362-6666) (1-800-563-8764) $171 (delta) Feb 1–Apr 11 $95 (s) $95 (d) Call to get quote and identify your- $143 (delta) Apr 12–Apr 30 Heritage Inn & Suites Heritage Inn self as a Alberta Retired Teachers’ $174 (delta) May 1–May 31 (1-888-888-4374; 403-362-8688) Association member. Rooms range $251 (delta) June 1–Sept 30 $109 (s) $109 (d) $147 (delta) Nov 1–Dec 23 from $134 upwards depending on Calgary the time of year. $217 (delta) Dec 24–Jan 1 ($25 per additional person 5 Calgary Downtown Suites Banff Ptarmigan Inn per night) (1-877-451-5551; 403-451-5551) (1-800-563-8764) $159 minus 15% Sun thru Thurs Hidden Ridge Resort Call to get quote and identify your- $99 minus 15% Fri and Sat self as a Alberta Retired Teachers’ (1-800-563-8764) Association member. Rooms range Call to get quote and identify your- Blackfoot Inn from $125 upwards depending on self as a Alberta Retired Teachers’ (1-800-661-1151; 403-252-2253) the time of year. Association member. Rooms range $143 (s)—excluding June 12–16 and July 6–16 when rate is $205 Charlton’s Cedar Court from $170 upwards depending on (1-800-661-1225; 403-762-4485) the time of year Carriage House Inn $84 Jan 2–Jan 31 Inns of Banff (1-800-661-9566) $103 Feb 1–Apr 11 (1-800-563-8764) $125 (deluxe) plus taxes—mid-week $84 Apr 12–Apr 30 Call to get quote and identify your- $119 (deluxe) plus taxes—weekend $102 May 1–May 31 self as a Alberta Retired Teachers’ Coast Plaza Hotel & $166 June 1–Oct 31 Association member. Rooms range Conference Centre $102 Nov 1–Dec 23 from $125 upwards depending on (1-800-663-1144) $133 Dec 24–Jan 1 the time of year $124 excluding Calgary Stampede
36 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Days Inn—Calgary South Marriott Calgary The Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel (1-800-361-3422) (1-800-896-6878; 403-266-7331) (1-800-663-1144) Rates: Standard room $89. Note— $199 (s)(d) excluding June 8–11 and $119 (s)(d) (coast comfort room) they have a variety of rooms at July 2–11 Executive Royal Inn West Edmonton different prices from $89 to $119. Radisson Hotel Calgary Airport (1-800-661-4879) Ask for what you want. Identify (1-800-333-3333; 403-291-4666) $109 (deluxe queen) yourself as an ARTA member. 10% off room rate $159 (executive king) Delta Bow Valley Ramada Hotel Downtown Calgary Greenwood Inn & Suites (1-800-268-1133; 403-266-1980) (1-800-661-8684; 403-263-7600) (1-888-233-6730) $169 (s)(d) Jan–Apr $115 (s)(d) Jan 1–Apr 30 $115 (traditional) $189 (s)(d) May–Oct $125 (s)(d) May Howard Johnson Hotel— $169 (s)(d) Nov–Dec $139 (s)(d) June 1–Sept 30 West Edmonton Delta Calgary South $125 (s)(d) October (1-800-556-4156; 780-484-3333) (1-877-278-5050; 403-278-5050) $115 (s)(d) Nov 1–Dec 31 $81 (s)(d) 10% off the best available rate Note blackout dates: June 8–11, Mayfield Inn July 2–11, Sept 2–5, Nov 26–29. Executive Royal Inn North Calgary (1-800-661-9804; 780-484-0821) (1-877-769-2562) Sandman Hotel Calgary City Centre $124 (s)(d) $109 plus taxes deluxe accommoda- (1-800-266-4684; 403-237-8626) Quality Inn West Harvest tion includes hot buffet breakfast $109 (add $10 per person per night) (1-800-661-6993) Sheraton Cavalier Hotel Calgary $99 (standard) Fairmont Banff Springs, (1-800-235-3535; 403-290-0107) $125 (executive queen) Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, $185 (s) $185 (traditional) exclud- $142 (executive king) Fairmont Chateau Whistler, ing June 8–11 and July 3–11 Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Sutton Place Hotel (1-800-441-1414) Travelodge Hotel Calgary (1-866-378-8866; 780-428-7111) 30% off regular rate Macleod Trail $139 (s)(d) Rooms starting at $199 (1-877-530-9206; 403-253-7070) Travelodge Edmonton West $89 (s)(d) excluding Calgary (1-800-578-7878; 780-483-6031) Fairmont Palliser Stampede $89 (s)(d) (1-800-441-1414; 403-262-1234) $179 (Fairmont) Wingate Inn Calgary Union Bank (514-0099) (1-888-423-3601; 780-423-3600) Four Points by Sheraton Hotel Prices range from $139 to $269— $169 (premier) and Suites Calgary phone for details rates valid to Oct 31, 2009 (1-877-288-4441) Canmore West Harvest Inn—West Edmonton $119 plus taxes Jan 1–Feb 29 Canmore Inns and Suites (1-800-661-6993) $139 plus taxes Mar 1–May 31 $99 (standard); $112 (executive queen) $159 plus taxes Jun 1–Oct 15 (1-888-678-4656; 403-678-4656) $129 plus taxes Oct 16–Dec 31 Prices range from $79 to $129 per Edson Note blackout dates where rates room depending on the season— Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites do not apply—July 3–13 ($240), please phone for a quote (1-888-733-4011) June 8–13 ($240), Cold Lake $119 Reserve Reference 4289. El Lobo Motel High River Greenwood Inn and Suites (780-594-7521) Heritage Inn (1-888-233-6730; 403-250-8855) $85 (s) $90 (d) (1-888-888-4374; 403-652-3834) $119 (s) $119 (traditional suite) Lakeland Inn $104 (s) $112 (d) $128 (twin) International Hotel Suites Calgary (1-877-594-3311) Jan 1–Jun 30 (1-800-661-8627 or $108 (s) $122 (d) plus taxes $137 (s)(d) $154 (twin) bookinternationalhotel.ca) (continental breakfast included) July 1–Dec 31 International studio suite Edmonton $114 (s)(d) $138 (twin) $189 plus taxes Alberta Place Suite Hotel Hinton Note blackout dates: June 7–11, (1-800-661-3982; 780-423-1565) Holiday Inn July 3–12, Aug 31–Sept 8. Rates $99 plus taxes (suite) (1-800-262-9428) will be higher on those dates. Identify yourself as ARTA member $129
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 37 Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Rocky Mountain House Heritage Inn (1-866-965-2299) Holiday Inn Express (1-888-888-4374; 306-665-8121) $145 (403-845-2871) $89 (s)(d) Jan 1–Mar 31 Jasper $109 $91 (s)(d) Apr 1–Aug 31 $93 (s)(d) Sept 1–Dec 31 Amethyst Lodge, Lobstick Taber Lodge, Marmot Lodge, Heritage Inn NOVA SCOTIA Pocahontas Cabins and (1-888-888-4374; 403-22-4424) Halifax Chateau Jasper $87 (s)(d) (twin) (Central Reservations: Four Points Sheraton (1-866-444-9494)(reservations) 1-888-8JASPER) BRITISH COLUMBIA You must mention that you are an $125 (+taxes) Jan 1–Apr 30 & Alberta Retired Teachers’ Association Cranbrook Nov 1–Dec 31 member/employee at the time of Heritage Inn Hotel and $145 (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 booking (you may be asked to sup- Convention Centre ply proof of employment at time of (1-888-888-4374; 250-347-9311) ONTARIO check in). 7 days advance reserva- $89(s) $99 (d) (twin) Toronto tions are required. Black out periods Vancouver Four Points by Sheraton apply. All reservations must be The Westin Bayshore Toronto Lakeshore guaranteed to a credit card. (1-604-682-3377 or 1-800-westin! (416-766-4392 or Lloydminster (937-8461) bayshore.reservations www.fourpointstoronto.com) Tropical Inn Hotel and @westin.com $110 (+taxes) Jan to Apr & Conference Centre City View—main building— Nov to Dec (1-800-219-5244; 780-875-4404) $169 (+taxes) Jan 1–Apr 30 $135 (+taxes) May to Oct $113 (s) $120 (d) $229 (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 Blackout dates where rates do not (continental breakfast included) $165 (+taxes) Nov 1–Dec 31 apply July 31–Aug 2, Aug 3–8, tower building— Oct 18–21, Nov 6–7, Nov 13–14, West Harvest Inn $209 (+taxes) Jan 1–Apr 30 Dec 31/09 (1-888-882-9378; 780-875-6113) $269 (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 $109 (standard) Four Points Toronto Airport $205 (+taxes) Nov 1–Dec 31 (1-800-565-5769) or Medicine Hat Harbour View—main www.fourpointstorontoairport.com Medicine Hat Lodge $199 (+taxes) Jan 1–Apr 30 $139 Identify yourself as an ARTA (1-800-661-8095; 403-529-2222) $259 (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 member when you register. $89 (s) $99 (d) $195 (+taxes) Nov 1–Dec 31 $99 (p) $99 (p) tower— Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel $125 (ls) $125 (ls) $239 (+taxes) Jan 1–Apr 30 (1-888-627-7175; 416-361-1000) $299 (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 $189 (+taxes) Jan 1–Dec 31, 2009 Pincher Creek $235 (+taxes) Nov 1– Dec 31 Regular rates run from $350 to Heritage Inn $415 plus tax. (1-888-888-4374; 403-627-5000) SASKATCHEWAN $109 (s)(d) (twin) Jan 1–June 30 QUEBEC $116 (s)(d) (twin) July 1–Dec 31 Moose Jaw Laval Heritage Inn Sheraton Laval Red Deer (1-888-888-4374; 306-693-7550) (1-800-667-2440) Holiday Inn Express $81 (s) $88 (d) (twin) (1-800-223-1993; 403-343-6666) $135 (+taxes) Jan 1–June 30, $114.99 (standard room with Regina Sept 1–Dec 31 either two queen beds or one king West Harvest Inn $135 (+taxes) July 1–Aug 30 bed, breakfast included) (1-800-853-1181) $125 (+taxes) $109 (s)(d) Red Deer Lodge Hotel and Gatineau-Ottawa Conference Centre Saskatoon Four Points by Sheraton Hotel and (1-800-661-1657; 403-346-8841; Best Western Harvest Inn Conference Centre www.reddeerlodge.ca) (1-888-244-5552) (1-800-567-9607) $96 (s)(d) $109 $125 (+taxes) year round
38 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Montreal BRITISH COLUMBIA St. John’s Crowne Plaza Montreal Airport Chilliwack Quality Hotel Harbourview (1-877-344-1999) Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL $139 (+taxes) Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 709-754-7788 Tel: 604-858-0636 Four Points Montreal Downtown NOVA SCOTIA (1-800-842-3961) (full breakfast included) Jan 1–Apr 30 MANITOBA Amherst $129 (s) (+taxes) May 1–Oct 31 Brandon Comfort Inn $145 (s) (+taxes) Nov 1–Dec 31 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL $129 (s) (+taxes) Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 902-667-0404 Alberta Retired Teachers please Tel: 204-727-6232 Bridgewater mention your affiliation (ARTA) Winnipeg Comfort Inn and the RATE CODE:RTA Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Airport Tel: 902-543-1498 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 204-783-5627 Dartmouth Westmount Hospitality Comfort Inn South Comfort Inn Group VIP program Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 204-269-7390 Tel: 902-463-9900 All hotels listed are managed Holiday Inn Harbourview by Westmount Hospitality NEW BRUNSWICK Corporate ID: 100205578 Group. For more information Campbellton Tel: 902-463-1100 or to book these hotels go to Comfort Inn Halifax www.innvestreithotels.com Corporate ID: LOYAL Holiday Inn Select Halifax Centre Tel: 506-753-4121 Corporate ID: 100205578 Please contact hotel directly Tel: 902-423-1161 to book your VIP rate. Edmundston Comfort Inn New Glasgow Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL ALBERTA Tel: 506-739-8361 Tel: 902-755-6450 Fredericton Calgary Sydney Comfort Inn Holiday Inn—Macleod Trail South Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 100205578 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 506-453-0800 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 403-287-2700 Tel: 902-562-0200 Travelodge Hotel—Airport Moncton Truro Corporate ID: 801347 Comfort Inn Moncton East Comfort Inn Tel: 403-291-1260 Corporate IUD: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 506-859-6868 Travelodge Hotel—Macleod Trail Tel: 902-893-0330 Corporate ID: 801347 Comfort Inn Moncton Magnetic Hill Yarmouth Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 403-253-7070 Comfort Inn Tel: 506-384-3175 Edmonton Corporate ID: LOYAL Saint John Tel: 902-742-1119 Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL ONTARIO Tel: 780-484-4415 Tel: 506-674-1873 Barrie Travelodge Edmonton South Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 801347 NEWFOUNDLAND Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 780-436-9770 Corner Brook Tel: 705-722-3600 Travelodge Edmonton West Comfort Inn Holiday Inn Barrie Corporate ID: 801347 Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 780-483-6031 Tel: 709-639-1980 Tel: 705-728-6191
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 39 Belleville Kanata Markham Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Toronto–Markham Tel: 613-966-7703 Tel: 613-592-2200 Corporate ID: 100205578 Brampton Holiday Inn Select Hotel & Suites Tel: 905-474-0444 Comfort Inn Ottawa–Kanata Midland Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 100205578 Comfort Inn Tel: 905-452-0600 Tel: 613-271-3057 Corporate ID: LOYAL Brantford Kapuskasing Tel: 705-526-2090 Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Mississauga Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Tel: 519-753-3100 Burlington Tel: 705-335-8583 Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Kenora Tel: 905-624-6900 Corporate ID: LOYAL Holiday Inn Toronto West Tel: 905-639-1700 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 100205578 Holiday Inn Hotel & Tel: 807-468-8845 Tel: 905-890-5700 Conference Centre Newmarket Corporate ID: 100205578 Kingston Tel: 905-639-4443 Comfort Inn—401 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Cambridge Tel: 905-895-3355 Comfort Inn Tel: 613-546-9500 Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Midtown North Bay Tel: 519-658-1100 Corporate ID: LOYAL Best Western Corporate ID: LOYAL Chatham Tel: 613-549-5550 Tel: 705-474-5800 Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Waterfront Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 100205578 Comfort Inn Airport Tel: 519-352-5500 Tel: 613-549-8400 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 705-476-5400 Cobourg Kirkland Lake Comfort Inn Lakeshore Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 705-494-9444 Tel: 905-372-7007 Tel: 705-567-4909 Dryden Travelodge Airport Kitchener Corporate ID: 801347 Comfort Inn Radisson Hotel Tel: 705-495-1133 Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 63522 Tel: 807-223-3893 Oakville Tel: 519-894-9500 Guelph Holiday Inn Select Hotel & Leamington Comfort Inn Suites @ Bronte Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 519-763-1900 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 905-847-1000 Tel: 519-326-9071 Holiday Inn Orillia Corporate ID: 100205578 London Comfort Inn Tel: 519-836-0231 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Hamilton Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 705-327-7744 Comfort Inn Tel: 519-685-9300 Oshawa Corporate ID: LOYAL Quality Suites Comfort Inn Tel: 905-560-4500 Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Huntsville Tel: 519-680-1024 Tel: 905-434-5000 Comfort Inn Radisson Hotel & Suites Holiday Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: 63522 Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 705-789-1701 Tel: 519-668-7900 Tel: 905-576-5101
40 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Travelodge Oshawa St. Catherines Radisson Hotel Toronto East Corporate ID: 801347 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 63522 Tel: 905-436-9500 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 416-493-7000 Ottawa Tel: 905-687-8890 Radisson Suite Hotel Toronto Airport Comfort Inn Ottawa East Sudbury Corporate ID: 63522 Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Tel: 416-242-7400 Tel: 613-744-2900 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 705-522-1101 Travelodge North York Les Suites Ottawa Corporate ID: 801347 Comfort Inn Rate Code: LOYAL Tel: 416-663-9500 Tel: 613-232-2000 Corporate ID: LOYAL Trenton Quality Hotel Tel: 705-560-4502 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Travelodge Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 613-789-7511 Corporate ID: 801347 Tel: 705-522-1100 Tel: 613-965-6660 Radisson Hotel Ottawa— Waterloo Parliament Hill Thunder Bay Corporate ID: 63522 Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 613-236-1133 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 519-747-9400 Travelodge Ottawa East Tel: 807-475-3155 Whitby Corporate ID: 801347 Timmins Tel: 613-745-1133 Quality Suites Whitby Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Owen Sound Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 905-432-8800 Comfort Inn Tel: 705-264-9474 Windsor Corporate ID: LOYAL Toronto Comfort Inn Tel: 519-371-5500 Comfort Inn Toronto North Corporate ID: LOYAL Parry Sound Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 519-966-7800 Comfort Inn Tel: 416-736-4700 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Holiday Inn Express—North York Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 705-746-6221 Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 519-972-1331 Tel: 416-665-3500 Quality Suites Windsor Pembroke Holiday Inn Express Downtown Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 519-977-9707 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 416-367-5555 Tel: 613-735-1057 Radisson Riverfront Hotel Holiday Inn Express Corporate ID: 63522 Pickering Toronto East Tel: 519-977-9777 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 100205578 Travelodge Hotel Downtown Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 416-439-9666 Corporate ID: 801347 Tel: 905-831-6200 Holiday Inn On King Tel: 519-258-7774 Sault Ste. Marie Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 416-599-4000 PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Holiday Inn Toronto Charlottetown Tel: 705-759-8000 Airport East Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 100205578 Corporate ID: LOYAL Holiday Inn Waterfront Tel: 416-240-7511 Tel: 902-566-4424 Corporate ID: 100205578 Holiday Inn Toronto Midtown Tel: 705-949-0611 Corporate ID: 100205578 QUEBEC Simcoe Tel: 416-968-0010 Alma Comfort Inn Quality Suites Toronto Airport Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 519-426-2611 Tel: 416-674-8442 Tel: 418-668-9221
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 41 Anjou Lévis Ste-Foy Quality Hotel Montreal Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Airport Hamel Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 514-493-6363 Tel: 418-835-5605 Tel: 418-872-5038 Baie Comeau Montreal Thetford Mines Comfort Inn Holiday Inn Select Centre-Ville Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Montreal Convention Centre Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 418-589-8252 Corporate ID: 100205578 Tel: 418-338-0171 Tel: 514-878-9888 Beauport Trois-Rivières Comfort Inn Quality Hotel Downtown Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 418-666-1226 Tel: 514-849-1413 Tel: 819-371-3566 Pointe Claire Boucherville Val D’Or Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Montreal Aeroport Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 514-697-6210 Tel: 450-641-2880 Tel: 819-825-9360 Quality Suites Montreal Aeroport Brossard Corporate ID: LOYAL Ville de Québec Comfort Inn Tel: 514-426-5060 Comfort Inn Airport Duplessis Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 450-678-9350 Holiday Inn Pointe-Claire Montreal Aeroport Tel: 418-872-5900 Chicoutimi Corporate ID: 100205578 Comfort Inn Tel: 514-697-7110 SASKATCHEWAN Corporate ID: LOYAL Québec Prince Albert Tel: 418-693-8686 Quality Suites Comfort Inn Dorval Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Tel: 618-622-4244 Tel: 308-763-4466 Corporate ID: LOYAL Rimouski Regina Tel: 514-636-3391 Comfort Inn Comfort Inn Drummondville Corporate ID: LOYAL Corporate ID: LOYAL Comfort Inn Tel: 418-724-2500 Tel: 306-789-5522 Corporate ID: LOYAL Rivière-du-Loup Quality Hotel Tel: 819-477-4000 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Gatineau Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 306-569-4656 Comfort Inn Tel: 418-867-4162 Saskatoon Corporate ID: LOYAL Rouyn-Noranda Comfort Inn Tel: 819-243-6010 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Laval Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 306-934-1122 Comfort Inn Tel: 819-797-1313 Swift Current Corporate ID: LOYAL Sept-Iles Comfort Inn Tel: 450-686-0600 Comfort Inn Corporate ID: LOYAL Quality Suites Laval Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 306-778-3994 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 418-968-6005 Tel: 450-686-6777 Sherbrooke Radisson Hotel Comfort Inn Corporate ID: 63522 Corporate ID: LOYAL Tel: 450-682-9000 Tel: 819-564-4400
42 ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views Canmore Lethbridge Radisson Hotel & Lethbridge Lodge Hotel & Conference Centre Canmore Conference Centre (1-800-333-3333; 403-678-3625) (1-800-525-9055; 403-328-1123) $118 (Q) $133 (K) Jan 1–Apr 30 $99 (s) (standard) & Oct 21–Dec 24 $123 (s) (business class) $129 (Q) $149 (K) May 1–31 $129 (s) (suite) (formerly Chip Hospitality) & Oct 20 Please add $10 per day for double occupancy www.greatcanadianhotels.com $174 (Q) $194 (K) June 1–Sept 30 & Dec 25–31 Red Deer Red Deer Lodge Hotel & BRITISH COLUMBIA Edmonton Conference Centre Victoria The Mayfield Inn & Suites (1-800-661-1657; 403-346-8841) (1-800-661-9804; 780-484-0821) $102 (tower, 2Q) Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites $124 (deluxe) $112 (courtyard) (250-385-2405) $134 (deluxe K) $129 (courtyard poolside) Jan 1–Apr 30/Oct 1–Dec 31 $154 (junior suite) $129 (tower, 1K) $89 (standard) $174 (suite, includes breakfast) Note blackout dates where rates do $119 (bachelor suite) Note blackout dates where rates do not apply—Mar 17–22, Nov 9–15 $129 (1 bedroom suite) not apply—Feb 8–15. $169 (2 bedroom suite) SASKATCHEWAN May 1–May 31 Radisson Edmonton South Regina $119 (standard) (1-800-333-3333; 780-437-6010) Regina Inn & Conference Centre $139 (bachelor suite) $135 (standard) (306-525-6767) $169 (1 bedroom suite) $155 (superior) Jan 1–Dec 31 $219 (2 bedroom suite) $175 (deluxe) $120 (standard) June 1–Sept 30 Please add $10 per day for double $140 (superior) $148 (standard) occupancy $150 (business) $168 (bachelor suite) Ramada Hotel & Saskatoon $198 (1 bedroom suite) Conference Centre Edmonton Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre $248 (2 bedroom suite) (1-888-747-4114; 780-454-5454) (306-242-1440) Vancouver $104 (standard) Jan 1–Dec 31 Residence Inn by Marriott $114 (superior) $129 (deluxe) (604-688-1234) $134 (business, includes breakfast) $144 (king) Jan 1–Apr 30/Oct 1–Dec 31 $164 (suite) $159 (business) $89 Standard Note blackout dates where rates do Radisson Hotel Saskatoon $119 (bachelor suite) not apply—July 24–26, Nov 4–11. (306-665-3322) $129 (1 bedroom suite) Jan 1–Dec 31 Fort McMurray $146 (standard) $169 (2 bedroom suite) Quality Hotel & May 1–October 15 $151 (corner) Conference Centre $166 (king) $199 (superior) (780-791-7200) $209 (deluxe) Jan 1–Dec 31 ONTARIO $219 (premium) $205 (regular) Rate includes daily buffet breakfast Sault Ste. Marie $225 (executive) Great Northern Hotel & ALBERTA Grande Prairie Conference Centre (705-942-2500) Calgary Quality Hotel & Jan 1–June 15/Oct 15–Dec 31 Radisson Hotel Calgary Airport Conference Centre $92 (standard) (1-800-333-3333; 403-291-4666) (780-539-6000) $107 (business) $134 (Q) $154 (K) Jan 1–Dec 31, 2009 June 16–Oct 14 Note blackout dates where rates do $124 (superior) $109 (standard) not apply—June 9–13, July 3–13, $144 (business) $124 (business) Sept 1–6. $164 (suite) Rate includes continental breakfast
ALBERTA RETIRED TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION News & Views 43 Ottawa Sainte Foy NOVA SCOTIA Crowne Plaza Ottawa Hôtel Gouverneur Québec Halifax (613-237-3600) (Sainte-Foy) Citadel Halifax Hotel Jan 1–Dec 31 (418-651-3030) (902-422-1391) $159 (standard) Jan 1–Apr 30/Oct 16–Dec 31 Jan 1–May 15/Nov 1–Dec 31 $179 (deluxe) $103 (standard) $112 (standard) $199 (club) $118 (superior) $122 (deluxe) $133 (business) Mississauga $142 (business) May 1–Oct 15 $162 (junior) Sandalwood Suites Hotel $123 (standard) (905-238-9600) May 16–Oct 31 $138 (superior) $135 (standard) Jan 1–Apr 30/Oct 1–Dec 31 $153 (business) $109 (deluxe suite queen) $145 (deluxe) Tadoussac $115 (deluxe double queen) $165 (business) $135 (business suite) Hôtel Tadoussac $185 (junior) May 1–Sept 30 (418-235-4421) $109 (deluxe suite queen) May 7–July 3/ NEWFOUNDLAND $120 (deluxe double queen) Aug 31–Oct 11 St. John’s $140 (business suite) $119 (standard) Travellers Inn St. John’s Rate includes continental breakfast July 4–Aug 30 (709-722-5540) $175 Jan 1–May 31/ QUEBEC Oct 1–Dec 31 PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Montreal $76 (superior queen) Charlottetown $84 (deluxe king & deluxe dd) Hilton Montréal Bonaventure Best Western Charlottetown (514-878-2332) June 1–Sept 30 (902-892-2461) Jan 1–Apr 30 $95 (superior queen) Jan 1–June 15 $179 (standard) $101 (deluxe king & deluxe dd) Oct 16–Dec 31 $204 (business) $94 (main) $229 (executive) $119 (north court) May 1–Oct 31 $134 (suite) $209 (standard) June 16–Oct 15 $234 (business) $134 (main) $259 (executive) $144 (north court) Nov 1–Dec 31 $164 (suite) $185 (standard) Rate includes continental breakfast $210 (business) $235 (executive) NEW BRUNSWICK Please add $25 for double or extra Fredericton person for Business rooms and $30 for Executive rooms Riverside Resort & Conference Centre St-Hyacinthe (506-363-5111) Hôtel des Seigneurs Jan 1–June 30/ (450-774-3810) Sept 1–Dec 31 Jan 1–Dec 31 $90 (standard) $114 (standard) $100 (waterview) $114 (superior) $100 (executive) $134 (deluxe $140 (suite) $144 (business) July 1–Aug 31 Business rate includes hot buffet $114 (standard) breakfast $124 Waterview $124 (executive) $164 Suite
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