Keep In Touch (KIT) Magazine - Fall 2024 by retiredteachers

IN ThIS ISSUE

106-1780 Wellington Avenue

Phone 204-889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082

Email: info@rtam.mb.ca

Website: www.rtam.mb.ca

EdIToRIAl CoMMITTEE Chair: Jocelyne fraser

Members: Judy Danchura

Gisèle Grégoire

Joan Zaretsky

Email: kit@rtam.mb.ca

BoarD of Directors 2024-2025

President: Gabe Mercier

Vice-President: Vacant

Directors-at-l arGe

Betty-Jean checkley

Jocelyne fraser

Vicky Hutchinson

Jayesh Maniar

Peter Narth

audrey siemens

Marilyn Wiebe

Executive director: sean seywright

Email: seywright@rtam.mb.ca

Office Administrator: Denise Bellesia

Email: dbellesia@rtam.mb.ca

Member Services Coordinator: Dianne casar

Email: dcasar@rtam.mb.ca

Print: concept Printing services

Creative director/design: Kathleen cable Email: conceptprinting@shaw.ca

IPRESIdENT’S MESSAgE Gabe Mercier RTAM

President, 2024-2025

am delighted to serve as President of this great RTAM organization this year. Thank you for the opportunity. I am grateful to be a member of RTAM, and to feel the friendliness and compassion that we have for each other, especially at the board level. RTAM is an organization with diverse educational backgrounds and interests that come together to make good things happen for retired teachers. There is a tremendous feeling about being part of something that is bigger than yourself, and that connection you feel when you provide a service for someone or being the recipient of someone else’s help.

As a member/volunteer, it is our goal to harness the tremendous energy, skills and compassion that is in RTAM. Last year the board made some very hard decisions that will bring greater stability and accountability to RTAM and Chapter activities. The work that has been done over the past two years to provide reporting to the Canadian Revenue Agency was a major accomplishment.

The work of the board was made easier with the experience and contributions of the former board members. I thank them for the support that they gave. Let us continue to honour the board members who came before us and to look ahead to an innovative sustainable future.

Some activities of RTAM:

RTAM is planning a Fall AGM on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024. The event is online only. Registration will open the first week of October.

A new website, designed by Luscious Orange, is ahead of schedule.

Growth Zone is a company working with the RTAM office on a customer relationship management (CRM) system that will improve member communication and interactions.

Some of the opportunities coming to existing Chapters, SIGS and new Chapters in the coming year:

• The Calgary chapter is sharing their monthly activities which is appreciated;

• The French Book Club was started last spring;

• The RTAM Choir is continuing this fall;

• Groups like Portage La Prairie are looking to return to RTAM as a new Chapter with new goals built around community, engagement and staying active.

RTAM Strategic Plan Priorities:

Below are the Pillars identified in the Strategic Plan:

Pillar: Information & Communication

• RTAM Website;

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM);

• French Inclusion; Print and Digital Growth;

• Consistent Assets

Pillar: Organizational Growth & Governance

• Board and Committee Recruitment;

• Bylaw and Policy Maintenance;

• Increase and Diversify Membership;

• Consistent Reporting; Increase Revenues;

• Winnipeg Foundation/ Donations;

• Increase Staffing

Pillar: Member & Community Advocacy

• COLA Awareness and Support;

• Teachers’ Pension Awareness & Needs;

• RTAM Requests for Action;

• Key Stakeholder and Community Partnerships

Pillar: Member Services & Partnerships

• Webinars and Workshops;

• Increase Partnerships;

• Facilitated Membership Interactions;

• In-Person Interactions and Opportunities.

JRAPPoRT du PRéSIdENT Gabe Mercier

e suis ravi d’assumer la présidence de cette formidable association d’enseignants retraités cette année. Merci de m’avoir donné l’occasion de vous servir. Je suis

reconnaissant d’être un membre de RTAM et de ressentir l’amitié et la compassion que nous avons les uns envers les autres, et en particulier au niveau du conseil d’administration. RTAM est une organisation dont les membres aux antécédents de scolarité et intérêts diversifiés se rassemblent pour accomplir de belles choses pour les personnes retraitées. C’est une sensation extraordinaire de faire partie de quelque chose de plus grand que soi, et de sentir ce rapprochement en offrant un service à quelqu’un ou en recevant l’aide de quelqu’un.

En tant que membres ou bénévoles, nous avons pour objectif d’exploiter l’énergie, les compétences et la compassion exceptionnelles de RTAM. L’an dernier, le conseil d’administration a pris des décisions très difficiles qui amélioreront la stabilité et l’imputabilité des activités de RTAM et des sections. Le travail qui a été effectué au cours des deux dernières années pour fournir des rapports à l’Agence du revenu du Canada n’était pas une mince affaire.

Le travail du conseil d’administration est grandement facilité par les anciens membres du conseil d’administration, qui mettent à contribution leur expérience. Je les remercie de leur soutien. Continuons de rendre hommage aux membres du conseil d’administration qui nous ont précédés et d’envisager un avenir novateur et durable.

Certaines des activités de RTAM :

RTAM prévoit une AGA d’automne le mercredi 20 novembre 2024. L’assemblée aura lieu en ligne seulement. L’inscription se fera la première semaine d’octobre.

Luscious Orange : en avance sur le calendrier.

Growth Zone : réunion avec Growth Zone tous les lundis.

Certaines des occasions offertes aux sections existantes,

aux groupes d’intérêts particuliers et aux nouvelles sections au cours de l’année à venir : la section de Calgary partage ses activités mensuelles, ce qui est apprécié. Le bureau relancera le club de lecture en français et la chorale de RTAM encore une fois cette année; nous avons également des groupes comme Portage La Prairie qui aimeraient revenir à RTAM comme nouvelle section avec de nouveaux objectifs axés sur la communauté, l’engagement et la vie active.

Un calendrier a été créé avec le chiffrier Excel pour le plan stratégique. Il indique ce qui s’en vient et nous aide à planifier en fonction des besoins d’une manière stratégique.

Priorités du plan stratégique de RTAM :

Pilier : Information et communication

Site Web de RTAM; gestion des relations avec la clientèle; inclusion du français; croissance des publications imprimées et numériques; uniformité des textes.

Pilier : Croissance et gouvernance organisationnelles

Recrutement de membres pour le conseil d’administration et les comités; tenue à jour des règlements administratifs et des politiques; augmentation et diversification des membres; uniformité des rapports; augmentation des revenus; Winnipeg Foundation/dons; augmentation de la dotation en personnel

Pilier : Défense des droits des membres et de la communauté

Connaissance de l’ajustement au coût de la vie et soutien connexe; connaissance du régime de retraite des enseignants et des besoins connexes; demandes d’intervention à RTAM; partenariats clés avec les intervenants et la communauté

Pilier : Services aux membres et partenariats

Webinaires et ateliers; augmentation des partenariats; facilitation des interactions entre les membres; interactions et activités en personne.

Sean Seywright RTAM Executive Director

Changes are coming

It is a seasonal thing. We are hitting the end of summer and in the RTAM office we already see members coming back from summer vacations where they visited family and friends, and our Directors are coming back to Board work and helping with the evolution of RTAM.

As sure as the seasons change, as we are about to experience later sunrises and earlier sunsets, so do the operations of a large organization. Our Board will be firing up committees, many made up of new volunteers. We will be launching a new website in September and new member profiles. RTAM will also be moving

their Annual General Meeting to the fall from the spring. November 20th will be our next AGM meeting, which allows us to report the finances in a timelier manner (within 6 months of year end as opposed to 11 months after year end).

Do not forget, with all the changes taking place, you can always reach out to our Board through any of the Directors or the Executive Committee. Our office is here to help with anything our members need as well. So please, stay in touch as we head into shorter days and cooler temperatures.

RAPPoRT du dIRECTEuR géNéRAl

Sean Seywright

Sean Seywright peut être contacté à tout moment par courriel à Seywright@rtam.mb.ca

Il y a du changement dans l’air

C’est saisonnier. L’été tire à sa fin, et au bureau de RTAM, des membres reviennent déjà de leurs vacances d’été après avoir rendu visite à leur famille et à leurs amis. Nos administrateurs reprennent également leurs fonctions au sein du conseil d’administration et contribuent à l’évolution de RTAM.

Les changements de saison sont inéluctables. Par exemple, le soleil commencera bientôt à se lever plus tard et à se coucher plus tôt.

Les changements opérationnels au sein d’une grande organisation sont tout aussi inéluctables. Notre conseil d’administration démarrera les activités des comités, plusieurs étant composés de nouveaux bénévoles, et nous lancerons un nouveau site Web en septembre et de nouveaux profils de membres. RTAM changera

également le moment de son assemblée générale annuelle, qui passera du printemps à l’automne. Notre prochaine assemblée aura lieu le 20 novembre, ce qui nous permet de produire un rapport des finances plus opportun (dans les six mois précédant la fin de l’exercice au lieu de 11 mois après la fin d’exercice).

Cela dit, n’oubliez pas que dans ce contexte de changements, vous pouvez toujours communiquer avec notre conseil d’administration par l’entremise des administrateurs ou du Comité de direction. Notre bureau est également là pour répondre aux besoins de nos membres. Par conséquent, n’hésitez pas à rester en contact avec nous à mesure que les journées se raccourcissent et se rafraîchissent.

In this Fall edition you will find a second Canadian Trivia Quiz #2. Do you know your Canada? Good luck! The answers to this Quiz are found on page 25 in this edition.

A few reminders:

• We invite you to send us, for our Winter edition of KIT, wellness suggestions, teacher stories, travel adventures, book reviews or recommendations, recipes, workshops and seminars you attended and/or any other experience that you feel will be of interest to fellow RTAM members. We would love to hear from you!

• Visit RTAM’s website www.rtam.mb.ca to view some of the workshops, trips, volunteer opportunities and more events that may interest you.

MESSAgE du CoMITé KIT

Jocelyne Fraser Jocelyne Fraser

Veuillez noter qu’il y aura une AGA de RTAM, le mercredi 20 novembre, 2024, via Zoom. Vous recevrez plus d’information en octobre.

Connaissez-vous votre Canada? Essayez de répondre aux questions du Canadian Trivia Quiz #2 dans KIT. Les réponses

• If you would like to receive the monthly e-Newsletter please contact Dianne at the office to add your name and email to the list.

• If you to wish to start a SIG (Special Interest Group) or join the Choir SIG or the French Book Club please contact Dianne in the RTAM office, for more information, at DCasar@RTAM.mb.ca or call 204-889-3660.

In this edition you will find an invitation from the Senior Centre Without Walls (SCWW), a support for older adults (A&O). They offer a variety of workshops, activities, travelogues, etc… All you need to do, if you’re interested, is call them at 204-956-6440 or 1-888-333-3121 (Toll-Free) or email them at info@oasupportservices.ca/

seront aussi publiées dans cette édition.

Le Club de lecture francophone reprendra ses activités de lecture vers la fin septembre, 2024. Veuillez envoyer un courriel à Dianne (dcasar@rtam.mb.ca) pour vous inscrire au Club de lecture.

We are seeking your ideas for ways to keep socially connected by asking you to identify practices which work for you.

For our Winter edition, we would like to highlight some of your ideas you have found helpful to keep your social connections alive and well.

Please submit them to KIT at the following address kit@rtam.mb.ca and we will collate your responses in hopes of offering some new means of reaping the many benefits of being socially connected.

ACER-CART Report / August 2024

Submitted by Gabe Mercier

ACER-CART Priorities

The following priorities evolved from issues affecting the wellbeing of seniors across Canada, issues often dictated by Government legislation.

Priorities:

• Are aligned with the ACER-CART Strategic Plan;

• Are developed by the ACER-CART executive;

• Are approved at the AGM;

• Are addressed by both the executive and the committees;

• Are set annually although the issues may be ongoing depending on socio-political circumstances.

ACER-CART Priorities 2024-25

ACER-CART will continue elevating the profile of our National Association in our provincial associations and at all levels of government and beyond.

Priority

ACER-CART will, in collaboration with like-minded organizations, develop strategies for aging at home.

Strategies:

• Advocate for the development and implementation of National Seniors’ Strategy which includes a universal national Pharmacare program and combats the move towards privatization.

• Advocate for a public health care system that prioritizes appropriately supported care in seniors’ own homes and their own community for as long as possible.

• Members be properly supported in their efforts to achieve financial stability to enable aging in place.

• Complete the strategic plan.

ACER CART performed a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats)

Important concepts discussed include:

• Everyone would like to see representation from Ontario and Quebec, even though Ontario RTOERO (formerly RTO - Retired Teachers of Ontario) pulled out of ACER CART

• Everyone would also like to see representation from the Territories. This is important.

• Building awareness for members about ACER CART is talked about repeatedly in more different ways than any other topic. It is diverse but clearly important for everyone.

• There is a common theme of people wanting to use Zoom to facilitate more conversations, planning and communication. What isn’t clear is at what level? Sub Committee, Working Group, Committee, Board, Executive.

The top responses to the SWOT analysis should fuel the strategic plan. Reading the responses may influence or change some opinions and thoughts or may just inform them of new possibilities.

AGM REPORT

May 8th, 2024

The Hilton Airport Suites - Winnipeg

MEET the team 2024 - 2025

GABE (OCHRE RIVER) President JAYESH (WINNIPEG) Vice President JOCELYNE (GRANDE POINTE) Treasurer

AUDREY (WINNIPEG) Director

PETER (WINNIPEG)

BETTY-JEAN (PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE) Director

Director

VICKY (CALGARY)

Director

MARILYN (WINNIPEG) Director

RTAM:

A Sustainable Future

RTAM offers programing and products for our members’ health and mental well-being.

Currently, we have a little over 10,000 members. Our members have indicated that they value the programs RTAM offers and have appreciated a variety of activities from travel opportunities, seminars on wellness and mental health, participating in local Chapters to developing Special Interest Groups. They also feel fortunate that RTAM offers Johnson Insurance for health, dental, and travel.

RTAM needs to do more to secure a sustainable future. Health, dental, and travel insurance continues to increase significantly.

The RTAM Board has been allowing these insurance premiums to be held to a minimal increase in the past couple of years

by utilizing a portion of funds being held in reserve. RTAM needs to significantly increase our membership base to help counter these increases.

Statistics Canada estimated that 21.8 % of the current workforce is between 55 and 64, and therefore on the verge of retirement. As they retire and age, they will draw more on extended health and dental benefits.

As this demand increases, costs will outstrip premiums being paid and the rate of health care insurance will increase. RTAM offers health, dental, and travel group insurance through Johnson Insurance. The cost of premiums for these services depend on many factors. Some of them are:

Demographics of Members:

Although RTAM memberage ranges from age 55 to 100 plus, the number of persons aged over 85 years is increasing.

In June, 2024, this is the distribution of ages and the number of RTAM members in each range:

400

2272

4724

2703

442

40+ 1

Total: 10,554

By Jayesh Maniar RTAM Director and Secretary

Member Count: An increase in membership will decrease the overall cost of premiums as more members are contributing.

As we age, our heath needs increase and we use even more of our extended health benefits. As we use more benefits, our group insurance premiums will keep going up.

A Sustainable Future Continued

Retired teacher associations in other provinces accept non-teacher members as long as they were employed in an educational institution, regardless of their job title.

By allowing Community Members, the cost of health care insurance for our members may decrease and RTAM can manage to remain a sustainable and a vibrant organization for the future.

Several notes are worth mentioning:

RTAM is not considering amalgamating with any other retired teacher organization RTAM would lose its unique flavour of programming and supports that it offers for all its members.

RTAM offers separate health, dental, and travel insurance packages through Johnson Insurance and members can pick and choose which one or more of the insurance modules will fit their needs best

Retired Teachers of Ontario offer one package for all three insurances and members do not have a choice. If you join their plan, you are forced to take all three modules as one package, whether you need them or not.

RTAM has a liaison on the TRAF Board. But TRAF benefits are set solely by TRAF and not linked to RTAM.

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

RTAM is launching a new website and Membership Portal this fall. We hope it will lead to better communication, easier registration for events and become more inclusive with language as we grow.

NEW SYSTEM LAUNCHES OCTOBER 2024

Once you’re logged in, you’ll see the many benefits the Member Centre has, including:

Member Directory - Maintain your contact information for the member and public directories.

Resources - Gain access to key sites, documents and other member-only information.

Events - Register for our upcoming events.

Career Center - Share job postings and increase your recruiting power.

Hot Deals - Add online coupons and take advantage of deals offered by other members.

News & Blog - Submit news or blog posts to share with members and/or the public.

Referrals - Refer new members to our association to help our business grow.

Email Lists - Subscribe and receive regular communication from us.

Committees - Increase your involvement in our association by participating on a committee.

Continuing Education - Enroll, apply and track your progress for Professional Certifications.

Forum - Network with others by exchanging information, sharing resources, ideas, and more.

Thank you letter from a recipient of the University College of the North bursary

Dear Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba Education Program Bursary Donor,

Iam writing to express my gratitude for the Retired Teachers’ Association Bursary that I have received from your organization. The financial assistance that I have received has helped me tremendously. I am very grateful for the financial support.

I am currently pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Education to become a teacher. I plan to make a positive impact on my future students. The bursary I have received will help me make a difference in the community and students’ lives that I come across.

Once again thank you so much for your generosity and support. When I become a teacher, I would like to give back and donate to students struggling with financial needs while pursuing an education.

Manitoba Teachers’ College Class of 1959

Sincerely,

Harley McLeod

Please be informed that the Manitoba Teachers’ College Class of ‘59 celebrated their Sixty-Fifth Anniversary Reunion, June 6th, 2024, at The Forks. Thirty-two Alumni attended. There were 640 graduates in the Class of ‘59. anniversary was organized by: (L-R) Marge (Hatch) Coleman (C), Bert Suss ((M), Norman Fullerton (B), Norm Guilbert (C) and missing Joseph Plett (L).

Manitoba Teachers’ College Class of 1959

lease be informed that the Manitoba Teachers’ College Class of ‘59 celebrated their 65th Anniversary Reunion, June 6th, 2024, at The Forks.

Thirty-two Alumni attended. There were 640 graduates in the Class

The anniversary was organized by (left to right): Marge (Hatch) Coleman (C), Bert Suss (M), Norman Fullerton (B), Norm Guilbert (C) and missing Joseph

Sadly, Joseph Plett passed away suddenly and unexpectedly several days prior to the event.

passed away suddenly and unexpectedly several days prior to the event.

Sadly, Joseph Plett

Retired teachers visit biomes and Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

by Ed JamEs

Every year around this time a group retired teachers, educators and friends get together to take a field trip someplace to learn new things and maybe meet some new people—while at the same time have some unique fun in our retirement years. As usual, the group included people from Manitoba and Saskatchewan, but this year, some visiting Australians joined our group to help fill up the school bus—making it all the more merrier! The group collectively is known as R-TAM and the bus had 36 people on board as it headed out for Winnipeg on a bright sunny morning from Virden.

was a third area—that of a butterfly collection zone—but it was closed during our visit.

eas. All too soon it was time to go on with our new learning adventures.

even an experimental flying saucer concept craft.

EThe trip leader was Beth Allison, a former Kindergarten teacher, who was able to use all of her teaching tricks and skills to keep things running smoothly. She accomplished this by providing refreshments, games, jokes and homemade cookies during the trip down and back.

While there, our group was divided into three parts for a tour of each climate zone.

very year around this time a group retired teachers, educators and friends get together to take a field trip someplace to learn new things and maybe meet some new people—while at the same time have some unique fun in our retirement years. As usual, the group included people from Manitoba and Saskatchewan, but this year, some visiting Australians joined our group to help fill up the school bus— making it all the more merrier! The group collectively is known as R-TAM and the bus had 36 people on board as it headed out for Winnipeg on a bright sunny morning from Virden.

Something that is becoming more common in the public places we visit is an official acknowledgement of the location of the event as being part of Canada’s Indigenous homelands and to show our respect.

The first stop in Winnipeg was “The Leaf.” This is a new facility in the Assiniboine Park area that is also known as “The Bioms.” The huge new structure is a swirling glass and steel building that is a large bio-dome, in that it has its own separate climate. In this case it has a tropical climate and a Mediterranean climate. There

As you toured each zone you could notice the change in temperatures as it would go from warm to hot and soon jackets and sweaters were taken off.

With our very knowledgeable guide it turned into an experience of smells, tastes and touch as you learned about the many different types of plants that could and have been used for food, medicine, garments and religious ceremonies.

During the tour they took us to a cooling room for a water break! In one part of the display there were hundreds of various hanging plants hanging from the ceiling to dry, as they would been in the past, to be used for a variety of purposes. It was a riot zone of smells for your senses!

The trip leader was Beth Allison, a former Kindergarten teacher, who was able to use all of her teaching tricks and skills to keep things running smoothly. She accomplished this by providing refreshments, games, jokes and homemade cookies during the trip down and back.

“The Leaf” had become a popular location for wedding photos all year round. Outside of the biodome were large areas of bedding plants and open air classroom ar-

R-TAM members and guests at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in front of a Lockheed Electra aircraft which was the type used by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the 1950s.

After lunch at a very busy airport restaurant that was nearby, it was off to the newly renovated Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada, which might sound a bit boring to some people, but it was not given the excellent guides who mixed lots of flying history with a good mixture of humor and personality.

Reprinted from The World Spectaor — Moosomin, Saskatchewan, June 24, 2024

the change in temperatures as it would go from warm to hot and soon jackets and sweaters were taken off.

Both of our tour group guides were former pilots with hundreds of hours of flying experience all over the world. We learned during our tours that even though Bra’Dor Lake in Beddeck, Nova Scotia, is credited with being the founding community of air flight in Canada, that it was Winnipeg, Manitoba that was the cradle of commercial aviation in Canada. It was in Manitoba that many of the first pioneer flyers came from or went to, creating new uses for airplanes such as mail and medicine delivery, mining and forestry surveys, trapping and eventually passenger service. All of that was done with the likes of the early bush pilots who flew planes that defied the laws of physics and would often carry their own mechanics in case of breakdowns.

On the upper gallery there was a play area for young children with airplanethemed activities. From the upper galley you could get a better look at the museum’s collection of aircraft on display on the floor or those that hung from the ceiling. If you wanted some quiet time, in a far corner of the gallery was a wide window where you could watch planes flying in and out of Winnipeg International Airport!

As we walked around the bright and spacious museum there were many original and replicas of the early planes used in Manitoba’s early flying history. However there were also early Air Canada passenger planes such as The Viscount, RCAF military planes, float and ski planes and

After a long day of seeing and learning, it was time for a relaxing ride home in the rain—after we made it through the traffic madness of Portage Avenue and the 4 pm traffic rush! The ride was made all the more comfortable by the many pillows and cushions that many of us had brought with us. You learn these tricks after years of school bus rides! Others, for the ride, brought cell phone games, knitting and even a few real books! After a stop in Brandon for supper and to say goodbye to a few of our group, it was off to Virden and back by 8:30 pm which was followed by some more goodbyes in the rain and talk about next year’s R-TAM trip!

Said Beth Allison about the excursion, “It was a great day for travel, learning, and meeting old and making new friends. The displays in both venues were very well done but it was the on-site tour guides that made them a new learning experience for all of us. As is said in Kindergarten, ‘Try to learn something new every day!’

One of the unique features of the tropical zone was a very high waterfall that refreshed the air and in the pond where it landed were several golden Koi fish, famous in Japanese culture. The long waterfall drop made it a popular place to stop and refresh yourself with the water’s spray. All during our tour, the guide encouraged us to touch and feel the various plants and their textures. She added that “The Leaf” had become a popular location for wedding photos all year round. Outside of the biodome were large areas of bedding plants and open air classroom areas. All too soon it was time to go on with our new learning adventures.

A view from the upper gallery of the museum. Shown are some of the many vintage and historic planes on display in its collection.

While there, our group was divided into three parts for a tour of each climate zone. As you toured each zone you could notice

Above is a secret military project based on a WWII story that the German military had designed a flying saucer. It was a project carried out by the Canadian AVRO Company and it was called the VZ9 Cargo Craft. The example in the museum is a replica.

Shown here is tour guide Sydney at the Assiniboine biodome. Shown here is a retired Vickers Viscount passenger aircraft, circa 1953, as used by Air Canada at one time.

Our guide Sydney at the Assiniboine biodome.

Retired Vickers Viscount passenger aircraft, circa 1953, as used by Air Canada at one time.

that it has its own separate this case it has a tropical cliMediterranean climate. There

ing glass and steel building that is a large bio-dome, in that it has its own separate climate. In this case it has a tropical climate and a Mediterranean climate. There

for wedding photos all year round. Outside of the biodome were large areas of bedding plants and open air classroom ar-

bio-dome, in that it has its own separate climate. In this case it has a tropical climate and a Mediterranean climate. There for wedding photos all year round. Outside of the biodome were large areas of bedding plants and open air classroom ar-

“The Leaf” had become a popular location for wedding photos all year round. Outside of the biodome were large areas of bedding plants and open air classroom ar-

there were also early Air Canada passenger planes such as The Viscount, RCAF military planes, float and ski planes and

Manitoba’s early flying history. However there were also early Air Canada passenger planes such as The Viscount, RCAF military planes, float and ski planes and

made them a new learning experience for all of us. As is said in Kindergarten, ‘Try to learn something new every day!’

done but it was the on-site tour guides that made them a new learning experience for all of us. As is said in Kindergarten, ‘Try to learn something new every day!’

Shown here is tour guide Sydney at the Assiniboine biodome. Shown here is a retired Vickers Viscount passenger aircraft, circa 1953, as used by Air Canada at one time.

Retired teachers visit biomes and Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada

by Ed JamEs

members and guests at the Royal Museum of Western Canada in front Lockheed Electra aircraft which was the by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the

was a third area—that of a butterfly collection zone—but it was closed during our visit.

R-TAM members and guests at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in front of a Lockheed Electra aircraft which was the type used by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the 1950s.

While there, our group was divided into three parts for a tour of each climate zone. As you toured each zone you could notice the change in temperatures as it would go from warm to hot and soon jackets and sweaters were taken off.

eas. All too soon it was time to go on with our new learning adventures.

even an experimental flying saucer concept craft.

RTAM members and guests at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in front of the Lockheed Electra aircraft whcih was the type used by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the 1950s.

R-TAM members and guests at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in front of a Lockheed Electra aircraft which was the type used by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the 1950s.

A view from the upper gallery of the museum. Shown are some of the many vintage and historic planes on display in its collection.

A view from the upper gallery of the museum. Shown are some of the many vintage and historic planes on display in the collection.

A view from the upper gallery of the museum. Shown are some of the many vintage and historic planes on display in its collection.

A secret military project based for a WWII story that the German military had designed a flying saucer. It was a project carried out by the Canadian AVRO Company and it was called the VZ9 Cargo Craft. The example in the museum is a replica.

a WWII story that the German military had de signed a flying saucer. It was a project carried out by the Canadian AVRO Company and it was called the VZ9 Cargo Craft. The example in the museum is a replica.

Shown here is the wall of plants in the tropical section of the Assiniboine Park Biodome.

on display on the floor or those that hung from the ceiling. If you wanted some quiet time, in a far corner of the gallery was a wide window where you could watch planes flying in and out of Winnipeg International Airport!

Shown here is the wall of plants in the tropical section of the Assiniboine Park Biodome.

here is the wall of plants in the tropical section of the AssiniBiodome.

R-TAM members and guests at the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada in front of a Lockheed Electra aircraft which was the type used by Trans Canada’s Airlines in the 1950s.

On the upper gallery there was a play area for young children with airplanethemed activities. From the upper galley you could get a better look at the museum’s collection of aircraft

Shown here are some students from a tour group cooling off by the indoor waterfall in the tropical section of the biodome.

A view from the upper gallery of the museum. Shown are some of the many vintage and historic planes on display in its collection.

Said Beth Allison about the excursion, “It was a great day for travel, learning, and meeting old and making new friends. The displays in both venues were very well done but it was the onsite tour guides that made them a new learning experience for all of us. As is said in Kindergarten, ‘Try to learn something new every day!’

Shown here are some students from a tour group cooling off by the indoor waterfall in the tropical section of the biodome.

Shown here is the wall of plants in the tropical section of the Assiniboine Park Biodome.

The wall of plants in the tropical section of the Assiniboine Park Biodome.

Some students from a tour group cooling off by the indoor waterfall in the tropical section of the biodome.

Calgary and Area Chapter Celebrates 10 Years!

Submitted by Penny Hogan and Jan Campbell

Calgary 10th Anniversary.

It all began in 2014 when Dennis Kozak, Calgary Chapter’s longtime President and now Past President, placed a small notice in the Winter 2013 KIT wondering if any relocated Manitoba retired teachers might be interested in forming an RTAM Chapter in Calgary. As a result of that small notice, on May 13, 2014, twenty former Manitobans met for brunch in Calgary at the Carriage House Inn. The eventual outcome of that first brunch was the formal establishment by the RTAM Board on December 4, 2014, of the Calgary and Area Chapter. Fast forward ten years, and Calgary Chapter celebrated its tenth anniversary at a luncheon held on Thursday, May 30 at McKenzie Meadows Golf Club in Calgary. So ‘Thank you’ Dennis for planting the seed which has grown into a group of friends who continue to discover many connections to our Manitoba roots.

Patti Syrette, RTAM Lifetime member, and frequent participant at Calgary Chapter events, entertained the group with a few stories from years spent teaching in Brandon with a colleague named Hazel. Another connection was made … Sharon Rogerson added a story of her own about Hazel, who was Sharon’s mentor in her first years of teaching.

The celebration concluded with cupcakes for dessert, and a small gift for each attendee - a $10 gift card from Tim Hortons or Indigo. Calgary Chapter is grateful for the support of an RTAM Wellness grant which helped make this special celebration possible.

Patti and Sharon reminiscing about a former teaching colleague. Photo courtesy of L. Hogan.

Patti Syrette kept the group entertained with stories of her days as a teacher in Brandon. Photo courtesy of L. Hogan.

CURRENT CHAPTERS AND SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS

IN LOVING Memory

JULIAN HOYAK

February 12, 1945 - July 26, 2024

www.clarkesfuneralhome.com/ obituary/julian-hoyak

Submitted

RTAM member, John Sushelnitsky

RTAM remembers Julian Hoyak because he was the stuff of which this organization was created. Feisty in discussion, fastidious in research, caring in all aspects of retired teachers’ welfare and a visionary able to see the big picture when confronted with problems that required decisions to be made, Jules was a gem. His contributions to RTAM were the natural outreach of a man who had cared deeply for his students, his profession and his community.

On a personal note, I knew Jules through his work on the Political Advocacy Committee over many years. With his wife JoAnne on the same committee, they made sure that the committee “rocked” with lively debate and deeply felt convictions about where RTAM should be moving. He believed that RTAM was more than a social club. It had to make A CASE FOR RETIRED TEACHERS not only to the government of the day, but also to the Manitoba Teachers’ Society.

A case in point, he maintained that the current voting system favouring the “first past the post” meant that minority parties would never have a fair chance to be heard in government. Although, he said, his vote would never be represented he continued to believe in and to do the research for alternate

systems. He wrote on income disparity. He was an avid reader of the newspapers and brought many issues to the committee and on to the Board for a wider consideration of what should be RTAM’s position on education and senior issues. For example, he said that RTAM should have an independent public position on the state of senior care homes during the pandemic , independent of any political party but as a voice for concerned retired teachers.

As a concerned teacher, Jules was on the Pine Creek negotiating team for over 30 years, often as Chair, securing better pay for substitute teachers, duty free lunch hours and days off for hours donated to student activities. Jules was the one teachers came to for advice/support when difficulties arose with administration or parents. He was a strong union man and viewed RTAM in the same light, that is, as a union of retired teachers established to protect and further the welfare of its members. Protection and fairness for his colleagues were principles that he brought to his work in RTAM.

For further insight into this remarkable man, may I suggest that you read his obituary on the Clarke Funeral Home in MacGregor/ Gladstone website.

Position: Contract Instructor

PACE Program: Educational Assistant Diploma Program

Stipend: Varies depending on course

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Deadline: Ongoing until positions are filled

PACE is currently accepting applications for contract instructors in the Educational Assistant Diploma Program. Teaching the next generation of professionals is a rewarding opportunity for you to share your knowledge and past experiences to help others learn and grow in your field. Work with a great team of highly dedicated and skilled educators and student support staff. How to Apply Directly: Please email your application (cover letter, resume, and course(s) interested in teaching) to instructorsupport@uwinnipeg.ca. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until positions are filled.

Find a full posting and more information on rtam.mb.ca

BCanadian Trivia Quiz #2

Some more fun as you test your Canadian knowledge!

Submitted by Joan Zaretsky

elow are some new trivia questions about our beloved country, Canada. The answers for this quiz can be found in this edition on page 25. Again, enjoy trying to determine the correct answers without using any other source of information except your wonderful memories of our amazing country – Canada!

1. Where is the home of the largest deposits of dinosaur bones in the world?

2. In what city was Expo 1967 held?

3. Which city is the home to a Sleeping Giant?

4. What is Canada’s official motto (in Latin please)?

5. What Canadian literary award is given to a Canadian author of a novel or short story collection in English?

6. What is the name of the 1922 documentary film depicting the lives of the Inuit people of Canada’s Northern Quebec region?

7. What is the honeymoon capital of Canada?

8. Who is the Canadian singer/songwriter born in Ottawa who is famous for the hit song “Diana”?

9. Who were the French Canadian traders who travelled in New France and the interior of North America to trade European items for furs with Indigenous people?

10. Who is the first Canadian born player representing Canada to reach the final in a major singles tennis tournament?

11. Which place in Canada is on the same latitude as northern California?

12. What is the Inuit language spoken in the Central and Eastern Canadian Arctic?

13. Who is the Canadian record producer and film composer who has won 16 Grammy Awards from 47 nominations?

14. What is the second largest lake in the Northwest Territories, the deepest lake in North America and the tenth largest lake in the world by area?

15. Who wrote and performed the “Canadian Railroad Trilogy”?

16. Who is best known for their “Man in Motion” World Tour?

17. Which Canadian author was born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan and was famous for the novel “Who Has Seen the Wind?”?

18. What is an iconic small pastry and one of the most popular desserts in Canada?

19. Who is the world’s all-time leader for international soccer goals for men or women with a total of 190?

20. Who hosted the “Vinyl Café”, an hour-long radio variety show on CBC?

21. Who is the first Canadian NHL goalie to wear a mask full time?

22. What is the iconic retail store that introduced a loyalty program in 1958 using paper coupons that resembled banknotes?

23. Who wrote and performed the song “Jagged Little Pill”?

24. What is the name of the series of 60 second public service announcements profiling Canadian animals, sponsored by Environment Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Service?

25. What island in Lake Huron is the largest lake island in the world?

Remembrance Day

Quotes from Canadians

On November 11, let’s take a moment to reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of those who have saved the True North Strong and Free.

“Remembrance Day is when the country stops for two minutes of silence, to pay respects to those who gave their lives, and our veterans who fought for our freedom.”

Douglas Phillips, Canadian Author

“Our hopes are high, our faith in the people is great, our courage is strong, and our dreams for this beautiful country will never die.”

Pierre Elliot Trudeau, 15th Prime Minister of Canada

“On this Remembrance Day, I’m feeling grateful. The sacrifice and service of those in the Canadian Armed Forces has made our way of life possible.”

Naheed Nenshi, Former Mayor of Calgary

“Canada is the homeland of equality, justice and tolerance.”

Kim Campbell, 19th Prime Minister of Canada

“There can be no dedication to Canada’s future without a knowledge of its past.”

John Diefenbaker, 13th Prime Minister of Canada

“In Flanders Field the poppies grow, between the crosses, row on row, that mark our place: and in the sky the larks, still bravely singing, fly scarce heard amid the guns below.”

John McCrae, Canadian Poet, Doctor and Medical Officer during WW1

SENIOR CENTRE WITHOUT WALLS

All participants will be called in ten minutes prior to the program start time using our audio conferencing system. Participants will also be provided with a toll-free number should they need to call themselves in. Information about this system and FAQs will be provided upon registration.

Look forward to … the announcement of the successful RTAM Student Awards winners and … SURPRISE!

Submitted by Joan Zaretsky

In early September the Student Awards Committee had the invigorating task of selecting this year’s four Student Award winners from the entries received by the RTAM Office on July 31, 2024. If you ever want to be captivated by the current accomplishments of our high school students, you need to join this Committee and read through the wide variety of experiences, opportunities, creations, leadership roles and work experiences in which our young adolescents are participating during their high school years. WOW! You will come to recognize that our high schools are producing some remarkable trailblazers who will lead us into our future!

This year, some students were sponsored by their grandparents, some by their aunts, and some by their parents. We want to congratulate all the RTAM sponsors who should be very proud of the accomplishments of their family members! Every application described some unique combination of coursework, community involvement and school-related contributions which made their individual student stand out as an innovator of their own future.

In the Winter KIT Issue, you will notice a surprise. Instead of only photos of the four students with a brief description of their future goals using their RTAM funds, each student will also submit a photo of their sponsor. RTAM wants to recognize the sponsors for the support they have offered their family members

throughout their lives and in their application for their Award.

Each sponsor may have contributed in different ways to their student’s development along their life’s journey. Some may have provided emotional support, some intellectual stimulation, some educational understanding and others may have just been there for their student to guide them along their path.

An exciting and meaningful way to support your family members for next year’s Student Awards is to assist them, starting this fall, with the development of their own unique RTAM Student Portfolio! As a sponsor in the future, you need only to complete the Student Portfolio Application (on the opposite page) and you are on your way to assisting your student to develop their outstanding Student Award application! The Student Portfolio will be mailed to the student identified on your application. Inside there will be resource materials to suggest potential types of entries, called “artifacts”, the students may start to collect. If you start the Portfolio with your student in Grade 9, it will be bursting at the seams by Grade 12. If your student is currently in Grade 11 or Grade 12, it is never too late to start the collection of artifacts process.

Enjoy the social connections you develop with your family member(s) as you guide them to develop their unique RTAM Student Portfolio!

BLUE ZonES –Increased Longevity in our Communities

Submitted by Joan Zaretsky

Have you read, or heard, about the new concept of Blue Zones in our world? In a recent Senior Scope newspaper (Volume 22, No. 12), there was an excellent article about Blue Zones which are described as areas of the world where people practice “the secrets of exceptionally long life”. They reveal five locations in the world where Blue Zones have currently been identified: Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan and Loma Linda, USA.

Blue Zones are defined as “regions of the world characterized by exceptional longevity, where extraordinary populations of centenarians live. A centenarian is a person who has lived to over the age of 100, and Blue Zones are where large numbers of these individuals tend to be found, living vibrant lives well into their 100s.” (The Senior Scope, Vol 22, #12, page 9).

I had to google Loma Linda as I found it amazing there is one such Zone found within our continent. Google reported:

“A community of about 9,000 Adventists in the Loma Linda area are the core of America’s blue zones region. They live as much as a decade longer than the rest of us, and much of their longevity can be attributed to vegetarianism and regular exercise. Plus, Adventists don’t smoke or drink alcohol.” (Google, July 6, 2024.)

My reflective question was “What are these people doing to live so long compared to our RTAM members and family members in our cities and

communities in Canada?” This edition of the Senior Scope identified common characteristics of these centenarians, many of which relate to the strategies we have been discussing with Sue Lantz and the keys proposed by Michael Ungar in the development of resiliency. Another article, developed by “Heart to Home Meals” suggests:

“Blue Zones encompass not only geographical locations but also cultural and lifestyle factors contributing to longevity as well, common characteristics shared by these populations have been identified, including dietary habits, physical activity levels, social connections and sense of purpose.” (p.9)

They identify the common characteristics as reflecting an “Intuitive Mind, Body and Soul Connection”.

“The Mind characteristics are supported when individuals get a good night’s sleep. In Blue Zones, napping is part of their daily routines and reduced work weeks allow more down time for more relaxed individuals. The centenarians tend to experience less stress as they consciously support good mental and emotional health practices. The resiliency factors identified supporting the relaxed mind include the presence of “social connections, leisurely activities and a laid-back positive attitude towards life’s challenges.”

The characteristics of Blue Zones which support a healthy physical Body include “a whole food diet based on nutritionally

balanced meals and limited meat consumption. Each of these regions also exist in places of the world where locally grown food is prioritized and year-round growth is possible.” While we would have trouble providing locally produced fresh food year-round with our winters, we can try to reduce or eliminate our prepared and fast food consumption and eat more real foods where possible. I found intriguing the 80% Rule they suggest as being a common practice, where the older people focus on their physical sense of fullness and stop eating when their stomach is 80% full. They suggest “moderate alcohol consumption” because of the antioxidants in wine which support digestion. Lastly, physical activity in these areas of the world tends to be a daily expectation, with “walking as their primary means of transportation and holding laborious jobs and hobbies that require some physical exertion day to day.”

Lastly, the importance of promoting a healthy Soul was highlighted. This is achieved by having a sense of belonging to a “strong social community, living in social networks where they receive emotional support and have deep social connections with family and friends.” I found it interesting that they specify the importance of sharing meals together, a practice I believe we did more often in the past than in our fast-paced society of today. Strong Family Ties were discussed with intergenerational connections. Sue Lantz has shared some housing designs where intergenerational families live together and provide support for

each other. “The family is considered a tight-knit unit in these regions.” Lastly, a supportive characteristic for the centenarians is having a sense of purpose, a factor which Ungar promotes in his resiliency framework. They comment that having “an intangible sense of purpose and belonging runs through Blue Zone populations” and that inhabitants live longer when they have “a reason to wake up in the morning” and a “feeling of personal value in one’s place in society”. They conclude this section noting “This sense of purpose provides centenarians a greater source of satisfaction, leading to a happier life.”

As I read through these many common characteristics of people living in Blue Zones, I started to reflect on my own life

and how I could increase my personal longevity by consciously incorporating some of these strategies. These were some of my questions:

• Were there some strategies you reflected upon reading this article?

• Are there practices you could adopt without changing your life too dramatically?

• Is there one area – Mind, Body, or Soul – where you could foresee as a starting point to encourage a longer, more fulfilling life for you?

• What are some practices you can decrease and/or eliminate, without too much disruption, to support your longevity?

• What is one thing you can do to support your sense of belonging and give you a purpose in your life?

I do not foresee that Winnipeg, or the province of Manitoba will be a Blue Zone in the near future, but we can all do our part to start the movement. Let’s give it a try and see if you notice any new positive feelings associated with your life as you put your longevity strategies into practice!

The 5 Day Social Connection Challenge

Submitted by Joan Zaretsky

You will recall that in Sue Lantz’s “Aging in Place” Framework, the third strategy she discusses is “Social Connections”. The value of social connections to increase longevity cannot be overrated in accordance with Sue’s and the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging’s research and recommendations.

Below is a 5 Day Social Connection Challenge for any of you who are interested in participating. The goal is to be in touch with others and have a good time completing the Challenge. You may want to complete this round and continue next week from Day 2 - 5 to contact more friends and family. It can be an endless cycle with many rewards for the time you spend reconnecting with your social connections!

Day 1:

Determine what makes a relationship special for you. Establish how you will ensure you meet these criteria for the others you are about to contact during the week.

Day 2:

Send a message to a friend reminding them of a great memory you share together.

Day 3:

Arrange to meet for coffee with someone you have not seen for a while.

Day 4:

Call a family member you love.

Day 5:

Tell three loved ones that you love them today.

Please note: This Challenge is based upon a “Relationship Challenge” handout with no formal references available other than“@THEFABSTORY” at the bottom of the page. The first day has been altered slightly, but the remaining four days are quoted directly from the handout.

We hope you enjoy the Challenge! Pass it onto others who you believe would enjoy the Challenge!

STUDENT SUCCESS PORTFOLIO PROGRAM

PARTICIPANT APPLICATION FORM

The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) Student Portfolio Project has been formed to engage communication and mentoring between RTAM members and their young relatives Retired teachers can play a major role in the lives of their young relatives who are currently in high school by sharing their skills and strengths to guide the students to become successful and caring adults.

RTAM members are encouraged to communicate on a regular basis with their relatives to prompt their collection of appropriate documentation useful in the development of their Portfolio, their RTAM Student Award application as well as other scholarships or bursaries in preparation of attending a post-secondary institution.

Participation criteria:

1) Open to an RTAM Member and a young relative in Grade 9, 10, 11 or 12

2) Relative interested in preparing applications for scholarships or bursaries

APPLICANT’S INFORMATION (RTAM MEMBER)

PLEASE PRINT

First Name: Last Name:

Address:

City/Town: Province: Postal Code:

Phone Number: Cell Number:

E-mail Address:

Relationship to Recipient: Portfolio Language Preference:  English or  French

RECIPIENT’S INFORMATION (RELATIVE)

PLEASE PRINT

First Name: Last Name:

Address:

City/Town: Province: Postal Code:

Phone Number: Cell Number:

E-mail Address: Grade (please check):  9  10  11  12

Name of Current School:

School Address:

City/Town: Province: Postal Code:

School Phone Number:

School E-mail Address:

RTAM wishes all members and recipients participating in this project, all the best in your future endeavors!

In Memoriam

February 2024

Margaret R. Venables – White Rock, BC

RTAM recently received notice of the above members passing.

April 2024

Marcel A. Bonneau – Winnipeg, MB

Ryan J. Brako – Winnipeg, MB

Elizabeth J. Cairns – Brandon, MB

Claire M. J. Chenier – Winnipeg, MB

Erica M. Devins – Winnipeg, MB

Georgina A. Jarema – Winnipeg, MB

Laretta Kinamore-Obeng – Winnipeg, MB

Frances Lofto – Winnipeg, MB

Katharine E. McDonald – Brandon, MB

Elizabeth Otke – White Rock, BC

Lena Pauls – Winnipeg, MB

Shirley A. Payne – Flin Flon, MB

Joseph G. Plett – Winnipeg, MB

Peter Podhorodeski – Dauphin, MB

Sandra M. Proudfoot – Winnipeg, MB

Joseph M. Ptashynski – Winnipeg, MB

Wilfred R. Taylor – Minnedosa, MB

Mary Zadorozny – Winnipeg, MB

May 2024

David J. Bain – Winnipeg, MB

Ernie Burdeniuk – Brandon, MB

Calvin F. Caughlin – Winnipeg, MB

Isabella M. Dryden – Winnipeg, MB

Mae C. Dyrkacz – Dauphin, MB

John R. Goran – Dauphin, MB

James R. C. Graydon – Winnipeg, MB

Shirley J. Koroluk – Winnipeg, MB

William R. Marsh – Brandon, MB

Dirpaul Ramkissoon – Winnipeg, MB

Irvine D. M. Skelton – Melita, MB

Robert H. Thompson – Winnipeg, MB

Michael Totte – Russell, MB

Wanda H. Waldner – Blumenort, MB

Roy E. White – Winnipeg, MB

Anne Wiens – Winnipeg, MB

June 2024

Victor A. Chaput – Winnipeg, MB

Bonnie L. Gerbrandt – Revelstoke, BC

David M. Gilbert – Winnipeg, MB

Dorothy S. Hunter – Virden, MB

Carole A. Kurdydyk – St Andrews, MB

Staney Lesniewski – Miami, MB

James W. Pringle – Nanaimo, BC

John S. Richer – Swan River, MB

Wilma L. Ritzer – Nore Dame de Lourdes, MB

James M. Roberts – Winnipeg, MB

Alexander E. Scharf – La Riviere, MB

M. Joyce Smyth – Winnipeg, MB

James A. Weber – Winnipeg, MB

Wendy C. Winslow – Victoria, BC

Life Members

April 2024

Julia E. Anderson – Brandon, MB

Sr. Jacqueline Bartush – Winnipeg, MB

James A. Diehl – Maple Ridge, BC

Ben Sawatzky - Winnipeg, MB

May 2024

Joan M. Baker – Camrose, AB

Elsie E. Butler – Erickson, MB

Justina Ewert – Victoria, BC

Alex Krawec – Stonewall, MB

Richard LaPage – Winnipeg, MB

Ronald Latourelle – Winnipeg, MB

D. Irene Legg – Winnipeg, MB

Margaret L. Owen – Winnipeg, MB

John Tkach – Dauphin, MB

June 2024

Arthur Butler – Erickson, MB

Lena Ewanyshyn – Grandview, MB

Anne Ratuski – Winnipeg, MB

Mary Ann Starodub – Winnipeg, MB

Zucchini Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Ingredients

3 very ripe bananas

1 1/2 cup shredded zucchini

3/4 cup sugar (brown or white)

1 egg

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp melted coconut butter (or coconut oil)

1 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Coconut oil for oiling the loaf pan

Cauliflower, Chickpea,

Directions

Set the oven at 350 degrees and oil a loaf pan with coconut oil. Start by mashing the bananas extremely well in a bowl, being careful to get all the lumps out as much as possible. Add the egg and sugar to the mashed bananas and mix well, then add the shredded zucchini and combine.

In a separate bowl mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. If using coconut butter, melt it in microwave and set aside. Combine the wet and dry ingredients together and mix gently with a wooden spoon until smooth. Then stir in the melted coconut butter or oil, the vanilla and the chocolate chips. (Since the batter is thick at this point, I mix it with my hands). Place the batter in the oiled loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes.

Mmm.. so good! Enjoy!

and Sweet Potato

Curry with Spinach and Coconut Milk

Ingredients

1 tbsp coconut oil or olive oil

1 cup chopped onions

2 tsp minced garlic

4 cups small cauliflower florets

3 cups peeled, cubed sweet potatoes (yams)

1 tbsp curry powder

1 tbsp grated fresh ginger root

2 tsp garam masala spice blend

1 tsp ground cumin

1 can (19 oz/540 ml) diced tomatoes (with liquid)

1 can (14 oz/398 ml) coconut milk (light or regular)

1 can (19 oz/540 mil) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

4 cups or more fresh spinach

2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro or fresh parsley (optional)

Cooked brown rice, basmati rice or quinoa for serving (optional)

Instructions

Heat coconut or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic. Cook and stir until onions begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Add cauliflower and sweet potatoes. Cook and stir for 3 more minutes. Add curry powder, ginger root, garam masala and cumin. Mix well. Cook and stir for another 3 minutes. Add tomatoes with their liquid and coconut milk. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 10 minutes.

Stir in chickpeas and spinach. Cover and simmer for 5 more minutes, or until cauliflower and sweet potatoes are tender and spinach is wilted. Remove from heat. Stir in cilantro or parsley and serve hot over cooked rice or quinoa, if using.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.

ENJOY!

All recipes submitted by Gisèle Grégoire

Keep hearing & learning

Summer may be coming to an end, but there are plenty of reasons to look forward to in the new season.If you have plans to explore new hobbies or spend the remaining milder months being outdoors, your hearing plays an important part in all of that. Sounds are a powerful source of inspiration for creativity. When your hearing is clear, your mind is free to focus better and engage deeply in your favourite activities, whether that’s painting, reading or enjoying the soothing sounds of nature.

To help you experience the difference healthy hearing can make, we’re offering RTAM Members and their family a FREE 30-day hearing aid trial* – no commitment to purchase afterward!

Did you know about our Price Match Policy?

We’ll match the price for equivalent hearing aids!***

RTAM Members & Family receive an EXTRA 10% off the final purchase price of hearing aids and custom noise protection! **