JUANITA KNIGHT | President , ARTA

write this — my last president ’ s message in news & views — with mixed emotions and a fair degree of sadness . I ’ ve been privileged to serve ARTA for the past three years : it ’ s now time to move on to new things as past president . On the other hand , I ’ m honoured to be able to celebrate with you and to share my message in the 100th issue of news & views !

Our little newsletter , originally printed on a Gestetner , was all done by hand , without the aid of a computer or modern database mailing . What an onerous task ! And today , even with the aid of digital technology , I believe our editor , Robin Carson , and associate editor , Margaret Sadler , would concur that it still is . Over the years with some thoughtful and careful guidance , our editors have kept raising the bar to new heights for the standard of excellence befitting communication with our retirees ! Kudos for their vision and foresight .

ARTA has grown in so many ways . We grew up and moved out of what had been our parents ’ house ( with thanks to the ATA for its many years of generosity ) and into our own home ; our membership has grown exponentially and news & views , like many of our girths , has expanded with more information , contests , and thought-provoking articles . Our committees have taken on new roles and ventured into new territory based on their insight and the feedback

and recommendations of our ever-changing demographic . I cannot possibly pick out any single thing that has impressed me the most about ARTA because ARTA functions as a concerted effort on everyone ’ s part ! Like a beautiful diamond in a solitaire ring , each person is a facet that refracts the light of their expertise and vision from the beautiful and shining gem of ARTA itself .

Personally , I would like to thank Marilyn Bossert , Dolaine Koch and Gordon Cumming for their support , patience and assistance ; they truly are a professional team to work with . And behind the scenes is another excellent team , led by our chief administrative officer and executive director , Daniel Mulloy . Their talented work makes ARTA a strong , transparent , accountable and more vibrant organization .

So thank you all , executive , committees , staff , branches and the 20,000 members for making my term a very rewarding and memorable time . It has helped me hone my vision and get on track with my plans for the next twenty years . I am grateful for the privilege of getting to know and work with so many of you . You have helped me grow and learn in ways I never dreamed possible . What more could a person ask ! �

Regards , Juanita news & views AUTUMN 2017 | 5