Keep In Touch (KIT) Magazine - Summer 2024

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

106-1780 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B3 | 204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | info@rtam.mb.ca | www.rtam.mb.ca

Vol. 36 | No. 1 | Summer 2024

summer

2024

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 36 | No. 1 | Summer 2024 Published by

106-1780 Wellington Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B3 Phone 204-889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: info@rtam.mb.ca Website: www.rtam.mb.ca Editorial Committee Chair: Gisèle Grégoire

in this issue President’s Report................................................... 3

Pension Committee AGM Report............................ 19

Rapport de la présidente......................................... 4 Executive Director’s Report..................................... 5

Membership and Chapters Committee AGM Report........................................................... 20

Rapport du directeur général.................................. 6

Political Advocacy AGM Report.............................. 20

Message from the KIT Committee........................... 7

Public Relations Committee AGM Report...............21

Message du comité KIT........................................... 7

2023 Student Award Committee Report................21

Canadian Trivia Quiz – Check out your answers.......................................... 7

Substitute Teacher Concerns Committee 2024 AGM Report................................................... 22

Thank you President Linda Blair.............................. 8 We would like to say Thank You................................ 9 BARTA Annual Report 2023-2024...........................10 Calgary and Area Chapter Report............................11

Wellness Advocacy Committee 2024 AGM Report................................................... 22 A new purpose for developing your Legacy Portfolio.................................................... 23

DARTA Annual Report.............................................12

Annual Liberal Party Dinner: Recognition for RTAM’s President – Linda Blair...............................24

ÉMR - Éducatrices et éducateurs manitobains à la retraite.........................................12

RTAM Meeting with the Liberal Party of Manitoba......25

Rapport du chapitre des ÉMR 2023-24................... 13 St. James-Assiniboia Chapter Annual Report 2023-24..........................................14 KIT Editorial Committee AGM Report.....................14 Southwest Assiniboine Chapter 2024 AGM Report.................................................... 15

RTAM and the PC Party of Manitoba....................... 26 Student Success Portfolio Program – Application Form................................................... 27 Student Awards Program by Jayesh Maniar.......... 28 Author Review - Joe Nesbo................................... 28 RTAM Student Award Application Form................. 29 Programme de bourse d’études............................ 30

Thompson Association of Retired Teachers’ RTAM 2023-24 AGM Report.................... 16

Life Members......................................................... 30

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee (EDI) AGM Report.................................. 16

In loving memory of all our RTAM members........... 32

ACER CART – 2024 Annual General Meeting Report....................................................... 17

Recipe: Fresh Berry Salad..................................... 36

Emeriti Committee Report to 2024 AGM................ 18

Recipe: Roasted Whole Steelhead Trout Fillet...... 36

Demande de Bourse D’Études de la RTAM.............. 31 Recipe: Stuffed Bell Peppers................................. 36

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to kit@rtam.mb.ca and received by August 21, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies or views of RTAM. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

2 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

Members Judy Danchura JoAnne Hoyak Gabe Mercier Joan Zaretsky Email: kit@rtam.mb.ca Board of Directors 2024-2025 President: Gabe Mercier Vice-President: Vacant Directors-at-Large 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 Copyright © 2024 by RTAM All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RTAM 106-1780 Wellington Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B3

President’s message

Linda Blair

RTAM President, 2022-2024

Submitted by Linda Blair,

A

s my term as your RTAM President concluded on May 8th, 2024, at the RTAM Annual General Meeting, this message will be the final one for me as your RTAM President. The last two years have been remarkably busy, totally encompassing years. There have been significant advancements made in the world of RTAM. When Bill Cann and Pat Bowslaugh brought the strong recommendation to the Board that an Executive Director with extensive business knowledge as well as longevity be hired to advance RTAM, I never envisioned being the person tasked with working alongside this individual. After two years of working with this new hire, I can confidently state that Bill and Pat had the foresight to see the need for business knowledge and longevity as qualities necessary in our RTAM Executive Director. Sean Seywright has filled the position admirably just as they envisioned.

While maintaining the focus of RTAM, the organization has grown to include many new partners. Our website will become more functional because of the extensive research that the design agency known as Luscious Orange has undertaken to determine our members’ needs regarding our website. Hearing Life provides our members with the ability to access hearing aids at a much-reduced cost. Trip Merchant continues to provide members with trips at reduced cost. Our upcoming RTAM group trips

to Croatia and Portugal are involving our members in exciting adventures. Check out the RTAM website to obtain information on our other partners, as space prevents me from listing all the partners.

Our organization has transitioned quickly into term limits for Board members. Therefore, we have had several new RTAM Board members. They have agreed to serve as committee chairs, which is no easy task, especially as they become the brand-new person to the committee. I have seen our Board members update committee manuals, so the next Chair will have the opportunity to build on what has been accomplished in the preceding year. They brought their experience to our RTAM Board to advance RTAM. I appreciate their focus and dedication to RTAM. Going forward my plan is to assist the new RTAM President while I attend fewer meetings and answer fewer emails. I shall miss the almost daily chats with Sean, the editorial advice on letter formation from Dianne, and the detail that Denise insists I provide on financial matters. I wish Sean, Dianne, and Denise all the best in the days and years ahead. To the new RTAM President and Board, may you all continue to advance RTAM. May you as members enjoy the advancements RTAM has made this year as well as the ones that will be made in the future.

Take care. Be well.

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 3

message de la présidente

Linda Blair

Soumis par Linda Blair, présidente de la RTAM 2022-2024

V

oici mon dernier message en tant que présidente de notre association, puisque mon mandat de présidente de la RTAM se termine le 8 mai 2024 avec l’assemblée générale annuelle. Les deux dernières années ont été très bien remplies, tout à fait passionnantes. Des avancées significatives ont été réalisées dans le monde de la RTAM. Quand Bill Cann et Pat Bowslaugh ont vivement recommandé au conseil d’administration d’engager à la direction générale une personne ayant une solide connaissance du monde des affaires et une grande longévité pour faire progresser la RTAM, jamais je n’aurais imaginé être la personne chargée de travailler aux côtés de cette personne. Cela fait maintenant deux ans que je collabore avec cette nouvelle recrue et je peux affirmer sans risque de me tromper que Bill et Pat ont fait preuve de clairvoyance en insistant sur la connaissance du monde des affaires et la longévité. Sean Seywright a admirablement rempli ses fonctions, comme ils l’avaient prévu.

Tout en maintenant le cap sur son objectif, la RTAM a pris de l’expansion et a conclu de nombreux nouveaux partenariats.

Notre site Web, notamment, sera plus fonctionnel grâce aux recherches approfondies menées par l’agence de conception Luscious Orange pour déterminer les besoins de nos membres à cet égard. Hearing Life offre à nos membres une grande réduction sur le prix des prothèses auditives. Trip Merchant continue d’offrir à nos membres des voyages à prix réduit.

Nos prochains voyages de groupe en Croatie et au Portugal promettent de belles aventures pour nos membres. Consultez notre site Web pour connaître nos autres partenaires, car je ne peux tous les énumérer ici, faute d’espace.

Notre organisation a rapidement décidé de fixer des durées limitées au mandat des membres du conseil d’administration.

Nous avons donc accueilli plusieurs nouveaux membres au sein du conseil d’administration. Ils ont accepté de présider des comités, ce qui n’est pas une tâche facile, surtout quand on est nouveau au sein d’un comité. J’ai vu les membres du conseil d’administration mettre à jour les manuels des comités, de sorte que la personne qui me remplacera à la présidence pourra s’appuyer sur le travail accompli au cours de la dernière année.

Ils ont apporté leur expérience au conseil d’administration pour faire avancer notre association. J’apprécie leur détermination et leur dévouement à la RTAM. Dorénavant, j’ai l’intention d’aider la personne qui prendra ma relève, d’assister à moins de réunions et de répondre à moins de courriels. Les discussions quasi quotidiennes avec Sean me manqueront, comme me manqueront les conseils éditoriaux de Dianne pour la rédaction des lettres et l’insistance de Denise pour que je fournisse des renseignements sur les questions financières. Je souhaite à Sean, Dianne et Denise tout le succès possible dans les jours et les années à venir. À la personne qui me remplacera et au nouveau conseil d’administration, puissiezvous continuer à faire progresser notre association. Quant aux membres de la RTAM, je vous souhaite de profiter des avancées réalisées cette année et de celles que nous réservent les prochaines années.

Soyez prudents et prenez soin de vous.

“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”

Helen Keller

4 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

executive director’s Report

Sean Seywright RTAM Executive Director

Sean Seywright can be reached anytime by email at Seywright@rtam.mb.ca The office has been busy this past season as we get ready for the RTAM Annual General Meeting, provide updates to our website and RTAM membership profiles, and get set for our last two months of programming before the summer break.

We have upcoming sessions which are really taking off! Kudos to our Director, Jayesh Maniar, on starting a new seminar series and opportunities for members and retired teachers. “For Us, By Us” is a new series of webinars, where we empower our members (retired teachers) to present a free online presentation to RTAM members on a topic they are passionate about. Jayesh is the first presenter in the series and has about 100 members signed up for his May presentation on “Aging and the Brain”. If you would like to present at one of our weekly sessions, please reach out to me by email. We are booking presenters for the fall series over the next two months.

The RTAM AGM is set to roll with new Directors coming to the Board and updates to our bylaws, policies and budget being proposed.

As we continue to grow, this is a really important time for RTAM and for members’ voices to share their thoughts. We hope to have more than 100 members join us May 8th to vote on the updates and changes!

We have completed the review, surveys and planning phases for a new website, membership platform and customer relationship management devices. The work on these very large and important projects just started in April and should be ready for launch this September! We can’t wait for members to have better access to information, updates and each other!!

Lastly, the office would like to thank the departing Directors and President. Brent Corrigan, Gisele Gregoire, Dianne Snider and Kelvon Gordon Smith were all fantastic Directors who gave a lot of themselves to help better RTAM. President, Linda Blair, worked around the clock, sometimes even putting in up to 50 hours in a week to help manage the growing Organization in addition to member needs, feedback, praise and concerns. To all five of the outgoing RTAM members, Directors and volunteers – Thank you so much from the three of us in the office. We were so thankful for your service, and we wish you the best as you move forward in your retirement.

DID YOU MISS THE DEADLINE TO GET A PRINT COPY OF KIT?

IT’S OK! YOU CAN STILL REGISTER TO RECEIVE KIT BY MAIL AND IN PRINT.

CALL OR EMAIL THE OFFICE

204-889-3660 office@rtam.mb.ca RTAM Manitoba, Canada 5

rapport du directeur général

Sean Seywright

N

ous avons été très occupés au bureau la saison dernière avec la préparation de l’assemblée générale annuelle, la mise à jour de notre site Web et des profils des membres et les préparatifs des deux derniers mois d’activité avant la pause estivale.

Nous avons des activités très prometteuses à vous proposer!

Félicitations à Jayesh Maniar, administrateur, pour avoir lancé une nouvelle série de séminaires à l’intention des membres et des enseignants retraités. « For Us, By Us » (Pour nous, par nous) est une nouvelle série de webinaires où nos membres (enseignants retraités) sont invités à faire une présentation en ligne gratuite sur un sujet qui les passionne à l’intention de nos membres. Jayesh est le premier présentateur de la série et une centaine de membres se sont inscrits à la présentation qu’il fera en mai à propos du vieillissement et du cerveau. Si vous souhaitez faire une présentation lors de l’un de nos webinaires hebdomadaires, n’hésitez pas à communiquer avec moi par courriel. Nous voulons retenir les présentateurs des webinaires de l’automne au cours des deux prochains mois.

Nous sommes prêts pour l’AGA, avec l’arrivée de nouveaux administrateurs au sein du conseil d’administration et la proposition de mises à jour de nos règlements administratifs, de nos politiques et de notre budget. C’est un moment très important pour notre association, qui poursuit son expansion.

C’est le moment idéal pour nos membres de se faire entendre

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

et de faire part de leurs idées. Nous espérons que plus de 100 membres se joindront à nous le 8 mai pour voter sur les mises à jour et les changements!

Nous avons terminé les phases d’examen, de sondages et de planification en vue de la création d’un nouveau site Web, d’une plateforme d’adhésion et de dispositifs de gestion des relations avec les clients. Le travail sur ces grands et importants projets a débuté en avril et le nouveau site Web et ses fonctionnalités devraient être lancés en septembre! Nous avons très hâte que les membres aient un meilleur accès à l’information et aux mises à jour et puissent communiquer plus facilement les uns avec les autres!

Enfin, le bureau souhaite remercier les administrateurs qui nous quittent et la présidente sortante. Brent Corrigan, Gisèle Grégoire, Dianne Snider et Kelvon Gordon Smith ont tous été de formidables administrateurs qui ont donné beaucoup d’euxmêmes pour aider à améliorer la RTAM. La présidente, Linda Blair, a travaillé 24 heures sur 24, parfois même jusqu’à 50 heures par semaine, pour aider à gérer l’Association en pleine croissance, en plus de répondre aux besoins, aux commentaires, aux louanges et aux préoccupations des membres. Aux cinq membres, administrateurs et bénévoles sortants de la RTAM, un grand merci de la part de nous trois au bureau. Nous vous sommes très reconnaissants pour vos services et nous vous souhaitons le meilleur pour votre retraite.

staying

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

For our Fall 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.

6 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

message from the kit committee

Gisèle Grégoire

I

n this Summer Edition, you will find information about a book recommendation, recipes, Student Awards and Student Success Portfolio, Chapter reports, meetings of the RTAM president with the Liberal Party interim leader, Cindy Lamoureux and Grant Jackson, an MLA for the Conservative Party, and much more. Don’t forget to check the answers to the Canadian Trivia Quiz that was published in the Spring Edition.

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

A few reminders:

Have a wonderful summer!

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

• We invite you to send us articles about travel adventures, author/book reviews, recipes, community activities, Wellness workshops and seminars you attended in person or via Zoom and found beneficial and would recommend to fellow RTAM members. We would love to hear from you!

Message du comité KIT

Gisèle Grégoire

V

Si vous désirez plus d’information au sujet du bulletin de nouvelles en ligne et des Groupes d’Intérêts Particuliers, veuillez contacter Dianne au bureau de RTAM à l’adresse courriel suivante DCasar@RTAM.mb.ca ou veuillez composer le 204-889-3660.

ous trouverez dans cette édition de l’été, les rapports des Chapitres, une suggestion de livre The Cat de Joe Nesbo, des recettes, des informations au sujet des Student Awards et Student Success Portfolio, et bien d’autres.

N’oubliez pas de vérifier les réponses du Canadian Trivia Quiz publiées dans le périodique du printemps.

Bon été à vous tous!

Veuillez consulter le site web de RTAM www.rtam.mb.ca pour en connaitre davantage au sujet des ateliers, des voyages, des opportunités de bénévolat, ainsi que d’autres événements qui pourraient vous intéressés.

Check Out Your Answers!

Canadian Trivia Quiz

In the Spring KIT, there was a Canadian Trivia Quiz consisting of 25 questions. Below are the correct responses. Check them out to see how many you knew!

7. Curling

13. Group of Seven

19. Cape Spear

2. Wild Horses

8. Ottawa

14. British Columbia

20. Foster Hewitt

3. Pearson

9. Haligonians

15. Mr. Dressup

21. Corner Gas

1. Wolf

4. Nickelback

10. Polar Bear

16. The Beachcombers

22. Buffy St. Marie

5. British Columbia

11. The Hockey Hall of Fame

17. In Flanders Fields

23. Moose

6. Los Angeles Kings

12. Habs

18. Garter Snakes

24. Canadian Bacon 25. Saskatchewan

Submitted by Joan Zaretsky

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 7

PRESIDENT LINDA BLAIR

Thank You

FOR YOUR TIME, ENERGY AND COMMITTMENT TO RTAM You have given two years of your retirement time, energy and life to help better our community and organization. You often volunteered between 30 and 40 hours a week, sometimes more than 50 hours in a week.

You helped lead us in creating a plan for our next four years, you worked to update our bylaws, policies and systems to keep us all safe, you added partnerships to help our members save money and get more out of their retirement.

On behalf of the members, the staff, the committees and the RTAM Board of Directors, we would like to share our appreciation and say THANK-YOU!

8 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

WE WOULD LIKE TO SAY

Thank-You!

We were blessed to have such amazing volunteers this past year. All of them served RTAM tirelessly and put in countless hours of service. In addition to their Director work on the RTAM Board, many also took on other projects or Chairing roles with committees. We are so thankful for each of these outgoing leaders and wish them each the best in the next chapter of retirement.

Brent Corrigan (Treasurer)

Kelvon G. Smith (Director)

Brent acted as our Treasurer and Pension Committee Chair. He attended Executive and Board meetings and prepared agendas and meeting dates and times for the Pension Committee. As treasurer, he worked with staff to update the reporting of our finances in a timely and concise manner. Brent was essential in helping to create updates in reporting.

In addition to his Board service, Kelvon also chaired the Public Relations Committee. He was able to communicate to the Board the various areas of focus that his committee members had regarding public relations. He is also a proud representative of Virden and Westman. He was a valued member of our Board and we will miss his cheerful emails.

Gisèle Grégoire (Director)

Dianne Snider (Director)

Gisèle worked as KIT Committee Chair. She worked with committee members to update the KIT Manual while producing the edited content of each KIT promptly, despite many last minute requests. In her time, she has also been an important tie to the EMR Chapter. She has helped to recruit new Directors and has been essential in supporting more French inclusion within RTAM.

Dianne served on our Board starting from the AGM last year. She came very well prepared for all Board meetings to help lead and engage in discussion. Her experience with other Boards and Directors helped the way our Board operates. Her insight was invaluable and will be missed.

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 9

BARTA Annual Report 2023-2024 Respectfully submitted by Catherine McLaren, President Brandon and Area Retired Teachers’ Association’s AGM was held at Seniors for Seniors on April 4, 2023. The following members were elected to the Executive Board: President – Catherine McLaren Vice-President – Darlene Wilkinson Immediate Past President – Rick Oakden Secretary – Heather Shelton Treasurer – Mavis Johnston Director – Pat Bowslaugh Director – Ida Hallatt Director – Doug Adams A revised Constitution and Bylaws were adopted at the AGM, and a new Policies and Procedures document was presented to the members. Board members were elected to complete the second term in their respective roles.

The President attended the Brandon Teachers’ Association Retirement Reception, informally welcoming the new retirees and inviting them to become a “BARTA”. Again, this year, BARTA held some of its Executive Board meetings at the BTA office and assisted Brandon Teachers’ Association at its annual LIFT Conference.

BARTA was pleased to host the RTAM Annual General Meeting on May 2-3, 2023. On May 2, local artist Weiming Zhao shared his education journey, which led him to paint his now world-renowned artworks En plein air. RTAM presented a speaker as well. Following the presentations, a dessert reception was held, with costs absorbed by RTAM using funds that had been budgeted for table centrepieces for the next day’s meeting.

Afterwards, BARTA hosted a social hour with AGM attendees enjoying a relaxing visit after a long hiatus due to COVID. Our AGM Host Committee Co-chairs, Doug Adams and Heather Shelton, organized a committee of energetic volunteers 10 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

who created a welcoming atmosphere at the social hour and the next day, with gift bags for each attendee and room and table decorations evoking memories of schooldays gone by. Costs for the Tuesday event social and Wednesday’s decorations were borne by BARTA. During the year, Executive Board members developed a general timeline for the work of the Association and the Board. Each committee and the Executive Board provided estimated revenue and disbursements, and a draft budget was created. The timelines and budget will be used on a trial basis in the coming year, with a plan to reconcile the Actual figures with the budget, thereby allowing greater accuracy for the 20242025 fiscal year.

Longtime BARTA member Rick Oakden received an RTAM Chapter Member Distinguished Service Award, in recognition for his work as a past president – especially through COVID – and with internal communications.

Members were well informed about Chapter and RTAM news and events, as well as communiqués from all levels of government.

In April, BARTA hosted a funeral preplanning seminar titled “Ducks in a Row”, presented by Joy Bowman. Lunch was served to 53 attendees. Joy helped all in attendance to understand the importance of organizing necessary paperwork and information for our executor(s) following our death.

BARTA members and guests visited Fort la Reine Museum in Portage la Prairie on a beautiful day in July. After lunch at a local restaurant, we window-shopped at a garden centre before heading for home.

As is our custom, BARTA hosted four luncheons this year. A new format was

introduced by the Events and Excursions Committee, with local restaurants as venues for the meal and program.

Members ordered the meal of their choice and were responsible for paying their own tab and gratuity. This format was enthusiastically adopted by the membership. Speakers included Chad Wallin, the co-founder of the local inclusive hockey program called VOLT; Susie McPherson, a knowledge keeper from Brandon Friendship Centre’s Aboriginal Healing and Wellness Centre; and Constable Reni DuFault of Brandon Police Service, who educated us on the latest scams and phishing strategies.

The fourth luncheon preceded our AGM, with Weiming Zhao as our guest speaker. Weiming was presented with an Honourary Membership in BARTA, in recognition of his contributions to education in Brandon and the area.

Each luncheon opened with a land acknowledgment and giving of thanks.

The monthly Breakfast Club, held at a local restaurant, included members and guests. Meetings of the Executive Board took place in the Conference Room at the BTA Office and at the home of Doug Adams.

The BARTA News, distributed at each luncheon, became immensely popular.

Printed copies were available at the socials, with digital copies sent to all retired teachers on our membership and contact lists. The March edition included a feature article about Mavis Johnston, a 24-year veteran as Treasurer for Westman Retired Educators’ Association (WREA) and then BARTA. The Caring Connections Committee sent cards to members who experienced illness, loss, or special celebrations, and phoned those who do not receive email to keep them up to date on BARTA matters. In February, our Association honoured member Hazel Skuce with a

corsage on her 112th birthday. We also honoured member Meryl Orth for her advocacy about health and wellness for older adults. She is committee co-chair of Health Checks, which was recognized by the UN’s Decade of Healthy Aging in December 2023, for its innovation, inclusivity, and promotion of healthy aging.

BARTA’s member recruitment campaign included a congratulatory message to retiring teachers in the June edition of the BTA BUZZ newsletter and a monthly advertisement in that publication – another example of the positive relationship between our associations.

The Membership Committee set a goal of doubling our membership from last

year’s 44. We almost made it, finishing with a total of 81 Full, Life, Honorary, and Associate Members. Members received a membership card showing that they were eligible for discounts at a local greenhouse centre and a restaurant and shop.

The BARTA Readers’ Group met three times during the year, sharing their current reading material as well as books read and to be read. Although the numbers were small, those who attended enjoyed the recommendations and left the Western Manitoba Regional Library with a list of titles for their next selection.

The 2024 Annual General Meeting took place April 2 at the Victoria Inn.

The members approved the Executive recommendation of remaining a chapter of RTAM as new rules and practices are set. The following were elected to the Executive Board: President – Catherine McLaren Vice-President – Doug Adams Immediate Past President – Pat Bowslaugh Secretary – Arlene Ash Treasurer – Kathie Gordon Director Anne McGregor Director – Ida Hallatt Director – Louise Lamont Outgoing Executive Officers and Directors were presented with a BARTA mug, with thanks for their service to the Association.

Calgary & Surrounding Area Chapter Report Respectfully submitted by Jan Campbell and Penny Hogan Chapter Co-Presidents: Jan Campbell, Penny Hogan Treasurer: Richard Dooley Committee Members: Dennis Kozak, Lillian Kozak Members: 71 members and associates Calgary and Area Chapter members reside in Calgary, Airdrie, High River, Lethbridge, Cochrane, Strathmore, and Canmore.

Chapter Activities: • May 11, 2023-A Road trip to High River, AB was attended by 22 members. A morning visit to the Highwood Museum was followed by lunch at the Highwood Golf Club.

• October 5 - Sheila C. Serup, President, CHHA-Calgary spoke on the topic “Hearing Health” at this luncheon. Twenty members were in attendance.

• December 23, 2023 - Our annual Christmas turkey luncheon was attended by 25 members.

• March 21, 2024 - Guest speaker Corinne Spronken MHA BSW RSW Education Consultant with Alberta Health Services will speak on the topic “Advance Care Planning” at our upcoming luncheon.

Calgary Chapter is most appreciative of the RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant received in 2023. The grant was instrumental in the success of Chapter activities.

Initiatives: • June 2023 - RTAM sent an emailed invitation on Calgary Chapter’s behalf to RTAM members who have relocated to Calgary and the area in the previous year, resulting in 1 new member.

• KIT - Articles were submitted and published in the Spring, Fall and Winter 2023 editions.

• Record keeping - organization of Chapter records into a threering binder was initiated this year and is ongoing …

• Executive meetings were held April 13 and August 16, 2023, and March 4, 2024 Calgary and Area Initiatives for 2024 - 2025 • Outreach to inactive members • Succession planning for Chapter Executive • Calgary and Area Chapter 10th Anniversary Celebration May 30, 2024.

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 11

Dauphin Area Retired Teachers’ Association (DARTA) Respectfully submitted by Joyce McGinnis, President Members: 50

October: Monthly meeting

Meetings

November: Sponsored and laid a wreath at the Remembrance Day Service on November 11 — Decorated Watson Art Centre for Christmas — Tour of the new Obsolete Brewery followed by a pizza lunch — Volunteered at AG Night for the Dauphin Kings’ hockey game.

Our DARTA group has 50 paid memberships for this 2023-2024 year. We had our re-organization meeting in September at the Watson Art Centre’s Firehall.

We continue to apply for Chapter Initiative and Wellness Initiative Grants.

Currently, most members have e-mail access for maintaining regular contact. Those without e-mail are contacted by phone.

Thinking of You, Get Well, and Sympathy cards are sent to present and past members throughout the year.

December: Held annual Cheer and Chat afternoon in the Fire Hall of the WAC. A Tin for the Bin was brought and donated to the Food Bank along with a monetary donation.

January, February, March: Supervised exit doors at Dauphin Kings’ games.

The events and activities of the DARTA Chapter for this year include:

February: Valentine’s party.

September: Re-organization meeting with 20 present. A donation was made to the Senior Fund at Dauphin and District Community Foundation in memory of those killed in the Carberry bus accident. Members manned the Terry Fox donation table at the Co-op Grocery store.

April: The AGM of DARTA was held April 9th where the officers for the 2024-25 year were elected .

March: Monthly meeting.

A visit to the Fire Hall is to be planned for the spring using our Wellness Initiative Grant. It will include a demonstration of the use of a fire extinguisher and home fire safety.

ÉMR - Éducatrices et éducateurs manitobains à la retraite Soumis par Jocelyne Fraser, présidente des ÉMR L’Assemblée générale annuelle des ÉMR a eu lieu le vendredi 5 avril à 9h30 au Club Éclipse. Il y avait 27 membres présents et deux invités : Sean Seywright, le directeur général de RTAM ; et Linda Blair, présidente de RTAM. Ils sont venus nous informer au sujet des changements proposés par RTAM et pour répondre à nos questions au sujet de ce remaniement. Lors de cette réunion une proposition fut adoptée pour continuer notre affiliation avec RTAM. Nous avons observé un moment de silence à la mémoire de nos collègues qui ne sont plus parmi nous. Six membres ont apporté leurs chefs d’œuvres pour notre exposition d’art. Nous avons terminé l’assemblée avec un dîner servi par Le Café Rencontre de l’USB. Le tout s’est terminé vers 13h30.

12 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

On Friday, April 5 the ÉMR held their AGM at the Club Éclipse, in Saint-Boniface. Twenty-seven members were present and two special guests: Sean Seywright, Executive Director of RTAM, and Linda Blair President of RTAM. Sean and Linda were invited to answer questions about the RTAM’s new rules and practices for the Chapters. The ÉMR members voted in favour of continuing their affiliation with RTAM. The meeting ended with a lunch catered by “Le Café Rencontre” of the Université de SaintBoniface.

RAPPORT du Chapitre des ÉMR 2023-24 Rapport soumis par Jocelyne Fraser, présidente des ÉMR Depuis ses débuts, les ÉMR organisent diverses activités enrichissantes et fort intéressantes. Ce qui répond à notre mandant de promouvoir les intérêts sociaux et culturels des membres et autres enseignants à la retraite. Cette année n’a pas fait exception!

Activités 2023-24 : • Le 18 mai 2023 : Visite du Royal Museum of Aviation of Western Canada suivit d’un dîner au restaurant Olive Garden (18 participants) • Le 25 juin 2023 : Pique-nique au parc de Grande Pointe avec une randonnée dans le bois le long de la rivière Seine et quelques participants ont joué aux fers à cheval. (21 participants) • Le 21 septembre 2023 : Visite à la Maison de Gabrielle-Roy suivit d’un dîner à la brasserie Kilter (17 participants) • Le 16 novembre 2023: Tournée guidée du Leaf au Parc Assiniboine suivit d’un dîner au restaurant Gather Craft Kitchen & Bar (16 participants)

participants) Nous avions deux invités : Sean Seywright, le directeur général de RTAM; et Linda Blair, présidente de RTAM. Ils sont venus informer nos membres au sujet des changements proposés par RTAM et pour répondre à nos questions au sujet de ce remaniement. Lors de cette réunion une proposition fut adoptée pour continuer notre affiliation avec RTAM.

Inc. pour l’utilisation des locaux du 255 ave de la Cathédrale en vigueur le 1er janvier 2024. Nous pouvons tenir nos rencontres et des activités sociales et culturelles sans frais. Nous avons Marc Beaudry qui est un membre du conseil d’administration du Club et aussi membre des ÉMR qui est responsable d’ouvrir et fermer les portes de l’édifice lors de nos activités. Merci Marc.

Je tiens à remercier chacun des membres qui siège au Conseil exécutif des ÉMR qui a organisé au moins une activité.

Conseil

Initiatives À l’automne 2023, pour la première fois, les ÉMR ont pu offrir 2 bourses de Francofonds de 1000$ a deux candidats de l’Université de Saint-Boniface selon nos critères. Robert, Gisèle, Marc et moi-même ont fait partie du comité de sélection des lauréats. Nos deux récipiendaires sont : Adrien Sineux et Chantal Boulet.

• Le 14 décembre 2023: Brunch de Noël au Canad Inn Parc Windsor où l’on a profité de l’occasion pour chanter les chants traditionnels du temps des fêtes, dirigés par Bruce Waldie qui nous a accompagné au clavier. (48 participants)

Nous avons participé à la Maison des Affaires, exposition à la 50e Conférence pédagogique annuelle des ÉFM, qui a eu lieu le vendredi 20 octobre au Collège Louis-Riel. Nous avons pu faire de la publicité au sujet des ÉMR et communiquer des informations aux futurs retraités.

• Le 5 avril 2024: Assemblée générale annuelle des ÉMR au Club Éclipse. (27

Au mois de décembre, les ÉMR ont signé une entente avec le Club Éclipse’79

J’aimerais remercier tous les membres du CA pour leur dévouement, leur participation, leur disponibilité et leur travail exceptionnel cette année. Un merci spécial à deux de nos membres du CA qui quittent leur poste : RoseMarie Iafolla, trésorière et Marc Beaudry, conseiller.

Les membres du conseil qui ont été élus par acclamation pour 2024-25 sont : Jocelyne Fraser, Gisèle Grégoire, Corinne Barrett DeWiele, Lucille Daudet-Mitchell, Robert Daigneault, Gisèle Poirier.

Enfin, merci aux gens qui ont participé à nos activités de cette année. Continuons à participer en grands nombres. Merci aussi pour vos suggestions des diverses activités proposées pour nos sorties de groupes. Ça nous aide beaucoup à l’organisation de ces sorties. Continuons à demeurer jeunes de cœur et riches en expérience!

You’re only here for a short visit. Don’t hurry, don’t worry.

And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.”

Walter Hagen

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 13

St. James-Assiniboia Chapter Annual Report 2023 – 24 to the RTAM AGM Submitted by Lynn Land, President Officers 2023 - 2024 Chairperson – Lynn Land Vice Chair – Alison Logan Treasurer – Corinne Barrett DeWiele Secretary/Recorder – Rudy Peters Membership/Communications – Dorothy Young Members at Large – Marj Bilous, Shelley Herbert, Will Peters, Linda Scott The main objective of the St. James Assiniboia Chapter of RTAM is to promote the economic interests of its members and to support the Provincial RTAM Board in its endeavors to that end. The Chapter shares information with its members across Canada. In turn, members share the information with friends, family, and colleagues still actively teaching in Manitoba. Membership is 358 and includes retired teachers/ administrators/superintendents and a few spouses of deceased members.

The St. James-Assiniboia Chapter of RTAM held its AGM on October 12, 2023, in the lower level of St. Paul the Apostle Church. Thank you to Marj for making these arrangements. We devoured bratwurst barbequed by Fred and Terry, perogies cooked by Lynn, Linda, and Marj, and self-served ice cream sundaes. Our 50/50 draw winner was Audrey Fulham, and the wine basket winner was Brent Corrigan.

We thank Provincial RTAM for the Chapter Grant which helped

to make our event very successful. It was so nice to get reacquainted in person with former colleagues. We thank Lynn, Alison, Corinne, Marj, Rudy, Will, and Shelley for organizing this event, and Dorothy for getting out the notice to our members.

We are proud of these members of our Chapter who were elected to the RTAM Board for 2023-24: Brent Corrigan and Diane Snider. We are pleased that the following members of our Chapter have served on Committees this year: Alison Logan and Bill Cann.

We congratulate all retirees who have put forward their names for election to the 2024-25 RTAM Board of Directors.

2023-24 has been an interesting year for all of us. Hopefully by the time you read this report, things will have settled down in our world.

Since March 2023 we have shared information on the following St. James-Assiniboia colleagues who have departed this life: Joyce Aitken – Phyllis Cook – Val Clancy – Ellen Gould Paul Granovsky – Merrill Groff – Robert Harbottle Edward Hurta – Darryl Johnson – Roseanne Keyes Carolee King – Ralph Lyndon – June MacDonald Maureen McGowan – Inez Striemer – Elenore Wieler Garry Winfield We look forward to 2024-25 being a good year for all of us.

KIT Editorial Committee AGM Report Submitted by Gisèle Grégoire, Chair (Ile-des Chênes) Members: Judy Danchura (Winnipeg), JoAnne Hoyak (MacGregor), Joan Zaretsky (Winnipeg) and Gabe Mercier (Ochre River).

This year the Committee reviewed and updated the KIT Manual guidelines. KIT is limited to thirty-two pages per issue, so some material is not always printed in the current issue. Material that is time sensitive is prioritized. Decisions must be made as to what will be printed and what must wait.

KIT (Keep in Touch) is published four times a year in the Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer. The magazine is available on the 14 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

RTAM website, digitally and in print.

Thank you to the Committee Chairs, the Chapters and RTAM members for submitting material. A special thank you to the Editorial Committee members for their hard work editing material and for their innovative ideas and suggestions to further improve our magazine. It is greatly appreciated.

To get the magazine published on time the deadlines for submissions must be respected. All material for KIT should be sent to the following email address kit@rtam.mb.ca.

Southwest Assiniboine Chapter 2024 AGM Report At our September 2023 meeting we elected our 2023-24 Executive: President - Laura Ellen Elliott Secretary - Kathy Welsh Treasurer - Jerome Brockman Immediate Past President - Kelvon Smith Phoning- Peggy McGrath Friendship - Pat Wolfe Travel - Beth Allison Before the September meeting the previous executive held a meeting to agree to present a recommendation and make a motion to stay as a RTAM Chapter. This carried.

We met three times at the Virden Royal Canadian Legion Club Room in September, November, and April.

Southwest Assiniboine Chapter held a lunch meeting April 16, 2024, at the Virden Royal Canadian Legion Club Room.

Twenty-four members plus one guest had a wonderful meal of rice, sweet and sour meatballs, vegetables, and dessert.

Our Legion Auxiliary Ladies provided us with a great service with these lunches.

We thank them very much!

After our lunch, our guest speaker Alison Radford from Advanced Hearing Clinic

of Virden spoke on hearing issues and the services they provide to our local communities. She explained how hearing aids work and what they offer. She had tips for taking care of ears and hearing aids. Alison is a local girl who helps our seniors by providing this service closer to home, so we do not have to drive all the way to Brandon. We thanked her for her time with a pen and gift card.

We had a few items for door prize draws that provided a little fun, and everyone enjoyed visiting and catching up after the winter. The table which held the donations for the Virden and Area Food Cupboard had lots of good items to help the community. We then moved to our meeting and discussed correspondence, finance, and our trip planned for June 10th. We received thanks from The Westman Youth Choir and two youth from Deloraine Border Festival and Virden Music and Arts Festival for donations for their awards. Members who have moved away are dealing with health issues, or the ones who are celebrating something are recognized through cards. Pat Wolfe told us about her contacts and asked for any others whom she needs to contact.

Beth Allison presented the plan for our

Day Trip we try to take every year. We have only missed the years during covid.

Anyone interested in going to Winnipeg with a group having fun together at the Leaf and Royal Western Canadian Aviation Museum, please look for the information in the RTAM e-newsletter and their website.

After looking at our financial statements we noticed we were spending a large amount on advertising. It was decided we would not put the ads in the papers next time. We would continue with the phoning committee and advertise on the free local services. We would make sure we use the RTAM e-newsletter and website.

At the end of our meeting, we thanked Beth Allison for all her work planning the Day trip. She figures out every detail! We also thanked Kelvon Smith for his service as a RTAM director this past year. We presented him with a pen.

Our next meeting will be September 3, 2024, at the Virden Royal Canadian Club Room. Start time is 11:45 and cost is $15.00 for lunch. Bring a non-perishable food item or cash donation for the Virden and Area Food Cupboard.

“I truly believe that everything that we do and everyone that we meet is put in our path for a purpose. There are no accidents; we’re all teachers if we’re willing to pay attention to the lessons we learn, trust our positive instincts and not be afraid to take risks or wait for some miracle to come knocking at our door.”

Marla Gibbs RTAM Manitoba, Canada 15

Thompson Association of Retired Teachers’ RTAM AGM Report for 2023/2024 Submitted by Joan Dawson, President President: Joan Dawson, Vice-President: Fran Hartog, Secretary/Treasurer: Sue McCartney The Thompson Association of Retired Teachers (TARE) is made up of a small group of retired teachers (17), some spouses (4 regulars) and one associate member.

We meet for lunches, breakfasts, and hold informal meetings as needed in local restaurants. Emails are used to inform members of events and issues and to obtain feedback from them.

An RTAM Chapter Initiative Grant project that we started in 2019 has finally been completed. It was started to document the early years of the School District of Mystery Lake. Requests were sent out to as many retired teachers as we could find asking them to send us some of their early stories about teaching in Thompson. These stories would be collated into three binders to be placed in the School District office, the Thompson Public Library and the Thompson Museum. Over the years more stories were collected and placed in the binders but due to COVID they were never placed in the three buildings. When we could finally meet again, we voted in a new executive. The secretary, Sue McCartney, took over the binders. She did more editing and retyped the stories, organized them into decades and has since

been researching and writing a short history of the district along with the names of the superintendents and important events of the time. Several photos of the schools during those decades have been incorporated. The binders will be presented later this year when more of our members have returned from their winter holidays.

This year we continued with the Chapter Initiative Grant that we have been involved with for several years. We have been working with the Thompson Public Library to fill their four large planters with mostly plants that produce things that the children can watch grow, and then eat the produce. We meet in the spring to plan the work and then go to plant when it is warm enough for the plants to survive. We continue throughout the summer to water and weed as well as maintain the flower beds around the building. In September we meet to pull the plants and generally get the library plantings ready for winter. We received a Wellness grant as well which we used to put on a session on Seated Yoga.

We also toured the North Forge Makerspace Thompson facility.

Most of our meetings are held in the spring and summer as several of our members spend their winters in the south due to the extreme cold.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee (EDI) AGM Report Respectfully submitted by Betty-Jean Checkley, Committee Chair Committee members: Checkley, Betty-Jean / Portage la Prairie Desaulets, Ray / Winnipeg Gardiner, Catherine / Port Bruce, Ontario Mercier, Gabe / Ochre River Prendegast, Peggy / Winnipeg Udow, Ira / Winnipeg • EDI (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) is a Working Group.

• The purpose of the Working Group within the RTAM of Manitoba is to promote and advance the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion within RTAM. • The EDI working group was formed in October 2023, and it has an initial term of two years.

16 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

• The EDI working group has met once in 2023 and 4 times in 2024. As a result of the meetings, a Terms of Reference Document was finalized and submitted to the Board for approval in Feb. 2024.

• Some of the objectives that the EDI working group have been concentrating on are to identify systemic barriers that hinder equitable participation and representation of diverse retired teachers within the association.

• Another objective is to collaborate with other committees and stakeholders to integrate EDI principles into the association’s policies, programs and practices to make it part of RTAM culture. This is an area of focus in 2024.

ACER CART – 2024 Annual General Meeting Report Submitted by Gabe Mercier With the withdrawal of Ontario from ACER-CART Bill Berryman from Nova Scotia became president.

The biggest issue with Ontario was the poaching approach by ACER-CART; they wanted to poach members from other parts of Canada.

There will be a motion at the AGM to increase the number of representatives on the executive committee by two (one from the east and one from the west) and discussion about a TwoYear Term of office renewable instead of the current one-year term of office. The emphasis will be on stronger regional groups and regions will have autonomy to set their own agendas for the meeting.

Financial picture of ACER-CART Close to $50K invested, and $33,000 in assets.

The budget is set at $68K per year.

The account will deplete at a rate of $20K per year if the membership is without a membership fee increase.

Membership There was a drop in membership with the departure of Ontario: 168,000 drop to 84,204; difference of about 80k. The executive feel they can continue without a membership due increase and can function with the dues being received.

Cost savings Cost savings- General meeting every two years 2026 and 2028; Use Zoom every odd year, without an election; Rotating meetings at east and west. Must have AGM to meet Feds requirements Annual General Meeting AGM 2024 June 6 and 7 in Ottawa. Stay at the Delta. Thursday’s AGM - business meeting; guest speaker Gerry Sewatski top 10 trends affecting Canada; at CTF building; supper at the hotel.

After 2024 there will be AGM every two years: every two years 2026 and 2028.

Priorities 2024 In the past ACER-CART had too many priorities, so the Executive will be working on just three items: • Pharma care program (1) • Ageing in place (2) • Working on a Strat plan (3)

National Pharmacare Follow-up Discussion involved a possible third letter sent by the President of ACER-CART to keep the pressure on. He indicated that he would like this letter to go out sometime in April. A member shared that the Quebec government has a Pharmacare Program that was developed with the pharmaceutical companies. In discussion, it was pointed out that both Quebec and Alberta are against the National Pharmacare and Dental Programs. Both provinces would like the money given directly to them. The following motion came out of discussion.

Ageing in Place Ageing in Place covers a huge array of topics, and it was felt that no more than 3-5 areas should be explored. The Health Services Committee will work on ‘Ageing in Place’ and will bring forth what they feel are the top issues to the next Political Advocacy meeting. It was agreed that when letters are sent to the Minister of Health, Minister of Seniors, the Prime Minister, and so on that there should be a letter from the President of ACER-CART on behalf of its members. Individuals would also be encouraged to continue to send their own letters.

Discussion on Dental Care A member shared that BCRTA have written letters to various government people expressing their concerns on the Dental Program from the Federal Government. This concern is for low-income people who do not qualify for the Dental Program because they might have a dental program available to them.

There is confusion in how the Federal Government has laid out the plan. A member shared that in Quebec, even though she has her eligibility card, dentists have been discouraged from taking part at this time. The committee decided that a letter expressing our concerns would be drafted then passed on to committee members for comment.

National Pensioners’ Federation It was felt by the Political Advocacy Committee that this organization may be a good one to have an affiliation with.

In discussing the National Pensioners’ Federation, the questions were should the focus be on the National Charter, or do we look at the idea of having our members join Regional Chapters. Grace Wilson, from BCRTA, is the representative in that province at the National level. Four provinces have affiliations with the National Pensioners’ Federation: B.C., ON, N.S., and SK. Bill Berryman will have further talks with Trish Mcauliffe, from the Federation.

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 17

Emeriti Committee Report to 2024 AGM Respectfully submitted by Bill Cann, Chair of the 2023-2024 RTAM Emeriti Committee The Emeriti Committee was created by the RTAM Board upon recommendations from both the RTAM Executive Director and former President Bill Cann. The function of the Emeriti Committee is “to work together on issues or concerns related to the growth of RTAM and the protection of the organization’s historic knowledge.” The committee was composed of the following 12 volunteers, each with past Board experience: Bill Cann, Chair (Winnipeg), Rosalie Bornn (Dauphin), Pat Bowslaugh (Brandon), Bob Davies (Winnipeg), Joan Dawson (Thompson), Jack Fraser (Winnipeg), JoAnne Hoyak (Macgregor), Alison Logan (Winnipeg), Brian Patterson (Brandon), Joan Rink (Brookdale), John Sushelnitsky (Portage), and Vaughn Wadelius (The Pas).

The Emeriti Committee met four times via Zoom (2023-0908, 2023-11-07, 2024-01-08, and 2024-03-06) as well as at an interactive lunch and hybrid meeting with the Board (on 2404-02). Prior to each of the four regular meetings, the Emeriti Chair discussed agenda topics and board information updates with the Executive Director. Following each regular meeting, the Emeriti Chair submitted to the RTAM President a Summary Report which included recommendations for consideration by the Executive Committee and the Board. Following the Executive Committee meeting, the Executive Director provided the Emeriti Chair with feedback on the recommendations. While the Executive and Board were not bound to implement Emeriti recommendations, the feedback was much appreciated and helped to focus future Emeriti discussions.

September 8th, 2023, recommendations: 1. It is recommended that the Election Information package currently on the RTAM website be shared with as many members as possible prior to the opening of the Provincial Election Advance Polls on September 23-30, 2023. In addition to being included in the Fall KIT magazine, it is recommended that an additional September E Newsletter be sent out urging our electronic members both to vote and to access the link to the Election Information package on the RTAM website.

2. It is recommended that a Standing Committee Chair be responsible for Board and member recruitment.

3. It is recommended that a final effort be made to ensure that RTAM members who may be without access to email or are not computer literate can acquire print copies of the KIT magazine.

4. It is recommended that a public version of the monthly President’s and Executive Director’s reports to the Board be shared with the Emeriti Committee to facilitate effective 18 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

communications and understanding of recent developments during the two-month span between Emeriti Committee meetings.

November 07th, 2023, recommendations: 1. It is recommended that Director recruitment could be enhanced by: 1.1. Clarifying the Term Limit of Board members as described in Bylaw 6.04 (b), especially with regards to the word “continuous” and Strategic Plan Goal 3.3.

1.2. Annually reviewing with Chapter Presidents, the terms of the Six-year Rotation of Chapter Nomination/ Recruitment process which was negotiated at the 202109-07 Chapter presidents’ meeting.

1.3. Considering the advantages of a four-year term limit with a 9-12-member Board and with 3-4 members retiring each year based on seniority. Other term lengths, regional representation, rotation options and maximum consecutive service limits were also presented.

1.4. Providing active encouragement for Chapters to annually recruit new retirees to join an RTAM standing committee.

1.5. Conducting Exit interviews with retiring Directors.

2. It is recommended that Member recruitment could be enhanced by: 2.1. Ensuring that the Benefits at a Glance document is updated annually on or before August 31 and that it be posted on the website and reviewed at each RTAM PreRetirement seminar.

2.2. E nsuring that the planning and quality of the PeRetirement seminars is a top RTAM priority.

2.3. A rranging with Local Association MTS Presidents for an RTAM representative to attend annual retirement functions or at least get contact information for the retirees. Experience of Emeriti members indicate personal one-to-one contact is the most effective recruitment technique.

3. I t is recommended that viewing time for each In Memoriam slide be 25 seconds. It is also recommended that the AGM Chair draw attention to the In Memoriam page references in the AGM Handbook, that delegates remain seated during the slide show and that delegates who are able stand for a moment of silence following the slide show.

January 8th, 2024, recommendations: 1. Numerous concerns were expressed about the new policies concerning Chapters. The consensus was that they are overly restrictive and could lead to the dissolution of all or most Chapters.

1.1. Such major policy changes would be better introduced for debate at an AGM. 2. I t is recommended that member recruitment could be enhanced by 2.1. Requesting permission from TRAF for RTAM to send a recruitment email to non RTAM members emphasizing the benefits of membership, insurance, and partnership programs. It is understood that the RWT Chapter (Retired Women Teachers) has such an annual privilege.

2.2. Developing the relationship between Chapter’ presidents and local MTS association presidents.

2.3. Extending to Chapter presidents the postal code information of RTAM members in their respective regions.

2.4. Enhancing merchandising to promote the RTAM brand.

Examples such as RTAM fridge magnets or decks of cards could be provided to registrants at pre-retirement seminars, especially in-person ones. Similar marketing swag was used successfully in the past to promote membership.

2.5. Continuing to ensure that the website is current, and navigation is user friendly.

3. The Emeriti Committee accepts the Executive Director’s suggestion to host the In Memoriam portion of the 2024 AGM.

4. The Emeriti committee would appreciate clarification of the proposed in-person meeting with the Board in April; specifically, the date, time, location of the meeting, the number of Emeriti members to attend and travel, hotel and meal compensation for those members travelling from outside Winnipeg.

March 6th, 2024, recommendations: 1. A draft proposal for the 2024-2025 Emeriti Committee will be submitted to the RTAM President prior to the April 2nd Joint meeting.

2. I t is recommended that the April 2nd Joint Board and Emeriti Committee meeting be hybrid and follow lunch.

3. Vaughn Wadelius accepted the nomination to be the 2024-25 Emeriti Committee Chair.

4. Vaughn Wadelius and John Sushelnitsky volunteered to host the In Memoriam section of the 2024 AGM. April 2nd, 2024, Luncheon Meeting.

The luncheon was followed by a Hybrid Zoom so that the Board and Emeriti members could come together and talk about the past year. A healthy and respectful exchange took place on a number of issues including the new regulations for Chapters, the transition to a Governance model, and meeting the requirements of accountants, lawyers, and the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA). There was general agreement that similar interactive meetings would be beneficial to RTAM in the future, especially in the areas of improving communications, team building and focusing on developing the most effective methods of implementing goals/plans.

Pension Committee AGM Report Respectfully submitted by Brent Corrigan, Committee Chair Committee members: Corrigan, Brent, Chair / Committee Secretary Bowslaugh, Pat / Member Cann, Bill / Member Logan, Ali / Member Mozdzen, Karen / Member Prendergast, Peggy / Member Blair, Linda / RTAM President Seywright, Sean / Executive Director • Advocate that the province brings TRAF account B to fully funded status and increase funding available to the Pension Adjustment Account (PAA) to help fund a COLA. The issues are complex, and the solutions could require significant investment by the government, but the longer it takes to address the concerns related to accounts B and the

PAA account, the more expensive it becomes to both the government and Manitoba taxpayers, and the more inflation erodes pensions and quality of life.

• Continue to advocate for an improved COLA and other inflationfighting strategies to enhance pensioners’ financial health.

• Work with stakeholders to provide increased support for those cohorts identified in the demographic income analysis who are most vulnerable, particularly females aged 70 and older whose TRAF pension is near or below the poverty line. RTAM proposes to work with the Government, MTS and TRAF to seek solutions to alleviate that hardship.

• A joint RTAM/MTS meeting regarding current teachers contributing more of their current contribution to COLA was recommended.

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 19

Membership and Chapters Committee AGM Report Respectfully submitted by Dianne Casar, RTAM Member Services Coordinator Committee members: Casar, Dianne / Member Services Coordinator Blair, Linda / RTAM President Bellesia, Denise / Office Manager Seywright, Sean / Executive Director • Membership applications received for non-TRAF members, that were not defined within the Bylaws and Policies of RTAM, were forwarded to the RTAM Board for review and approval.

• In 2022-2023, there were 10 Chapters that met the Chapter Initiative Grant criteria and were awarded $250.00 for member engagement events.

• RTAM continues to host Pre-Retirement Seminars for active teachers thinking of retirement in the future. In the fall of 2024, RTAM hopes to have an in-person presence at SAGE events

throughout the province, to share the benefits of joining the organization after retirement.

• The Council of Chapter Presidents continued to meet bimonthly throughout 2022-2023 and into 2023-2024.

• New this year, RTAM created Special Interest Groups (SIGs) – Choir, book clubs and more. By creating these SIGs, members have a chance to engage in groups with others who share the same interests. Additionally, RTAM has gained new members, as only RTAM members can participate in these groups. RTAM office is always looking for ideas on new Special Interest Groups that would engage members.

• As of January 31, 2024, the RTAM membership counts, 10,578 members.

Political Advocacy AGM Report Respectfully submitted by John Sushelnitsky (2006-2024) Committee members: Blair, Linda / Winnipeg, MB Hansen, Guy / Winnipeg - Thompson. MB Kozak, Dennis / Calgary, AB Hoyak, JoAnne / MacGregor, MB Hoyak, Julian / MacGregor, MB Sushelnitsky, John / Portage la Prairie, MB 1. One of the primary activities of the Political Advocacy committee is to advise the Board on its communications with the Government and all political parties. With the RTAM president as a member of the PA committee, it can communicate concerns such as COLA, senior issues and educational developments in an effective way. The PA committee acknowledges and commends the recent meeting of RTAM with the new Minister of Education.

2. The vision of the Political Advocacy Committee focuses on both the internal workings of RTAM and on the relationship of the organization with the wider society of Manitoba and the world in which we live. Because of that vision the PA committee has been a leading proponent of reconciliation with the indigenous community. In that direction the PA committee moved RTAM to establish four bursaries at the 20 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

University College of the North, and further bursaries are being considered at other universities.

3. The PAC has strongly suggested that an RTAM presence be made in the communication outlets of The Manitoba Teacher, in print and online. Our RTAM symbol needs to be ever present in the minds of current teachers as they move towards retirement. Once retired, teachers need to look to RTAM because they are no longer covered by the MTS. 4. The PA committee in years past has invited Ed Schreyer, former premier of Manitoba, Nigann Sinclair, university professor and columnist on indigenous affairs, and former Senator Murray Sinclair, head of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, to speak with RTAM. The committee has taken the initiative to meet with people who are key to current events affecting retired teachers and society as a whole. The PA committee has acted as RTAM’s “window on the world.”

5. I n line with following directives from the Board to the PA committee, the PA has been given the task of formulating RTAM’s position statements on issues such as long-term care, voter reform and income disparity. The PA committee has been instrumental in assisting the Board create policies that interact with the stakeholders in society.

Public Relations Committee AGM Report Respectfully submitted by Kelvon Gordon Smith, RTAM Public Relations Chair and RTAM Board Director Committee members: Davies, Bob / Winnipeg Hansen, Guy / Winnipeg Smith, Kelvon / Virden Sushelnitsky, John / Winnipeg York, Linda / Just Outside of Winnipeg • The RTAM Executive asked the committee to conduct a survey for three different age groups concerning what was the best way to communicate with their age group. This was discussed and three surveys were sent in. If you wish to see them then contact the PR Committee Chair.

• During the year, we suggested to the RTAM Executive the need for RTAM Pride Clothing & Items. This will happen when the new website is constructed and operational with extras. We look forward to this convenience to our RTAM Membership who wish to purchase said clothing to make public that RTAM exists and that they are a proud member.

• The committee put forth the idea to the Executive that KIT should re-instate retired teacher memories. This idea was accepted by KIT with the PR Committee being the committee to send them stories submitted to the PR Committee by retired teachers. We will develop a bank of stories and forward to Kit good stories for their approval (if the stories pass their professional standards).

• The RTAM Executive requested that we offer ideas on how to inform the Membership of the Strategic Plan. This was discussed and acted upon with a few ideas being submitted.

• Every Child Matters (Orange Tee-Shirt) for RTAM Members who wish to have one was discussed in length. This will happen and be available to the membership when our newly constructed website is up and running. This is a matter that no doubt is of importance to our membership concerning our feelings and wish for reconciliation with our First Nations, Red River Metis, and Inuit people.

2023 Student Award Committee Report Respectfully submitted by Jayesh Maniar, Chair, Student Awards and Portfolio Committee Committee Members: Jayesh Maniar (Winnipeg) / Chair Joan Zaretsky (Winnipeg) / Member Judy Danchura (Winnipeg) / Member Kathy Bellemare (Dauphin) / Member Marilyn Wiebe (Winnipeg) / Member Betty-Jean Checkley (Portage la Prairie) / Member Peggy Prendergast (Winnipeg) / Member Linda Blair (Winnipeg) / RTAM President The Student Awards Committee met on Monday, August 28, 2023 and Wednesday, August 30, 2023. On August 28 and 29, each committee member assessed every application according to the revised rubric. The assessments were collated on August 30, 2023.

1. Student Award Committee Operating Manual The Committee reviewed and revised the Operating Manual updating it to align with current practices.

2. R evision of the Current Matrix Used to Evaluate Applications The Committee reviewed and revised the Rubric for Student Awards.

Four students were successful candidates for the Student Awards for 2023 as follows: • Anastasia Miller (Thornton, CO, USA; sponsored by Gloria Hersak) • Talia E. Iwanchysko (Dauphin, MB; sponsored by Nadia Yakielashek) • Victoria A. Sangermano (Winnipeg, MB; sponsored by Raymonde J. Malewski) • Zahra R. Slutchuk (Winnipeg, MB; sponsored by Sharron Z. Corne)

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 21

Substitute Teacher Concerns Committee 2024 Annual General Meeting Report Gabe Mercier – Chair & Secretary Audrey Siemens Kathy Stevenson

4. The committee had a Zoom meeting on February 1 with Brad Prokop, Chief Operating Officer with TRAF and it was a very fruitful meeting.

Substitute Teacher Concerns Committee had a very successful year.

5. BARTA did send a list of possible dates to have a seminar with our members. Saturday, March 23; Thursday, March 28; Saturday, April 6; Tuesday, April 9; Wednesday, April 10; Tuesday, April 16; Saturday, April 27. April 27 was chosen as the date to deliver the workshop. A weekend presentation would work better for members who are engaged in working during the week.

1. The committee members worked cooperatively with the RTAM office. The RTAM Office advocated on behalf of substitute teachers who are retired teachers and members of RTAM. During meetings with the MTS President and Vice President issues were raised that were important to retired RTAM members who are still teaching.

2. The committee raised issues of compensation and especially insurance for on the job with MTS and government officials.

The issue of insurance is important to substitute teachers because those teachers are not covered by worker insurance while on the job.

3. Retired Substitute Teachers have access to information on MTS bargaining and other issue through the MTS My Profile web page.

6. Content of TRAF’s presentation: a) W hen do substitutes have to contribute (voluntary versus mandatory rules)? b) Purchasing substitute service (cost, two formulas, school division data requirements) c) Pension formula d) Teaching after retirement rules (90-day rule, 120-day rule).

Wellness Advocacy Committee 2024 Annual General Meeting Report Submitted by Gabe Mercier – Chair & Secretary Jayesh Maniar Peggy Prendergast Wellness Advocacy Committee had a very successful year.

1. The committee members worked cooperatively with the RTAM office in the delivery of workshops and seminars, by providing the RTAM Office with ideas on workshops/seminars they felt were of interest to members. The RTAM office also conducted its own research on the needs of members of the association.

The office has been using the internet and social media very effectively to market the workshops, seminars, and other activities.

2. In the coming year the committee will be working on clarifying policy and procedures for the board to consider on grant applications and review the workshop evaluation form.

22 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

3. Members of the committee helped in finding presenters.

4. A member conducted research and provided an article to KIT on the golf tournament.

5. T he committee evaluated the workshops presented to members and provided suggestions for improvements.

6. The committee evaluated and approved grant funding applications on wellness activities from regional Chapter groups.

7. T he committee reported to the board on wellness issues, workshops/seminars, and strategies to improve the wellness of RTAM members.

A new purpose for developing your Legacy Portfolio Writing Your Memoir Submitted by Joan Zaretsky Recently, I was asked to develop some classes for interested

for you and your family. Discuss the role of food in your family

individuals from the South Interlake 55+ Center on developing

holiday traditions.”

their Memoir. Having recently published my autobiography, “The Missing Puzzle Pieces: Finding My Birth Family”, with a special twist of miraculously locating my birth family, the idea of facilitating others to develop their life stories into a Memoir was very intriguing for me.

A memoir is defined online by Grammarly as:

“How did you celebrate special holidays – Christmas, Easter, Birthdays, etc. - in your family home?”

In the third class, we will be discussing their development of a Legacy Portfolio over the summer months to support their continued writing process and to share with classmates next fall. In my planning, one of my first thoughts was to support the

“A nonfiction narrative in which the author shares memories

interested individuals to develop a Legacy Portfolio because of

from a specific time and reflects upon a string of themed

the many memories which could be sparked as they started to

occurrences throughout their life. The terms memoir and

gather their artifacts.

autobiography are often used synonymously. These two nonfiction genres are very similar, so it’s easy to get them confused. They’re both the story of someone’s life written by that person, and they both use the pronouns “I” and “me”.

They’re both true stories from the author’s life. However, an autobiography is a factual and historical account of one’s entire

As highlighted in a previous KIT magazine, a Legacy Portfolio is a collection of personal artifacts which depict your life story. In a Legacy Portfolio, you may include photos, newspaper articles, certificates of achievement or completion of special training, letters, greeting cards, postcards, special small objects or

life from beginning to end” rather than a shorter snippet of time.”

anything which you believe will support your family’s memories

In developing my book, I began by writing on separate papers

questions about different events or facts that they would like

a number of stories which I wanted to ensure I included in

to ask you now while you are still alive and in a sound mind to

my book. I later organized them into chronological order and

answer them. After Sue Lantz’s Caregiving Team workshop,

different themes I was exploring in specific chapters. I view the

you may want to include information to support your family in

development of a memoir or an autobiography as starting with a

understanding your medical wishes if, and when, you are no

collection of unique personal stories which are later sequenced

longer cognitively able to offer health information. A Legacy

to fit a desired purpose.

Portfolio is a useful tool to organize any artifacts which your

In planning for my three upcoming June classes, I have decided to focus on Childhood Experiences which would offer

of you in the future. You may ask your family to develop some

family may need, and enjoy, in reviewing the joys and challenges you have faced in your life span.

participants a good starting point for their memoir. During each

Developing your Legacy Portfolio can become a very creative

class, students will be given some story starters such as:

adventure as you fill it with unique artifacts which your family

“When you were young, what was your favourite thing to do and why? How did you feel when you were involved in this activity?

This could be a hobby, a sport, an art, anything you were passionate about.”

“List your favorite foods and drinks that your parents made

will recognize as symbols representing events, experiences and opportunities which, over your lifetime, shaped your becoming the person you are today. I look forward to working with my class in June and hope that you may start to jot down some notes about some of the items you place in your Legacy Portfolio which could be developed into your Memoir in your future!

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 23

POLITICAL UPDATES UPDATES POLITICAL

Annual Liberal Annual LiberalParty Party Dinner: Recognition for Dinner: Recognition for RTAM’s President RTAM’s President- -Linda Linda Blair Blair RTAM president Linda Blair Blair and RTAM president Linda and the the Retired Retired Teachers’ Association Associationof ofManitoba Manitoba(RTAM) (RTAM) Teachers’ was recognized recognizedby byCindy CindyLamoureux Lamoureuxand andthe the was Liberal Party Party of of Manitoba Manitoba for for her Liberal her dedication dedication to retired teachers, teachers, seniors seniors and and advocacy advocacyas asaa to volunteer for for older older adults adults in in Manitoba.

Manitoba. volunteer

This past pastFebruary February22nd 22ndthe the This Liberal Party Partyof ofManitoba Manitoba Liberal hostedtheir theirannual annualKickoff Kickoff hosted Rally and and evening eveningof of Rally recognition. recognition.

Dr. Jon of the theLiberal Liberal Dr. Jon Gerrard Gerrard of Party reached reachedout outtotoRTAM RTAM Party PresidentLinda LindaBlair Blairand and President invited her herto toattend attendthe the invited event based basedon onRTAM’s RTAM’swork work event with Cindy Cindy Lamoureux Lamoureuxand and with last year’s years successful successfulpassing passing last of Bill Bill 208, 208, recognizing RTAM of recognizing RTAM as the the official officialvoice voiceofofRetired Retired as Teachersin inManitoba.

Manitoba.

Teachers Unbeknownstto toRTAM RTAMand and Unbeknownst Linda, our our President Presidentand and Linda, Organizationwere were Organization rtam.mb.ca rtam.mb.ca 24 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

SEAN SEAN SEYWRIGHT SEYWRIGHT

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DIRECTOR

being recognized recognizedfor forthe the being work that thathas hasbeen beendone done work in the the past paston onbehalf behalfofof in retiredteachers, teachers,older older retired adults and andseniors seniorsinin adults Manitoba. The The recognition recognition Manitoba. is also also for forthe thecontinued continued is investmentininRTAM RTAM investment advocacyand andpolitical political advocacy action. action.

Four (4) (4) groups Four groups were were honored that thatnight nightfor for honored variousprograms programsthat thatare are various helping Manitobans Manitobanshave have helping healthierlives. lives. healthier

2024 Certificates 2024 Certificates of of Merit Merit

Linda Blair Blair and and the theRetired Retired Linda Teachers Association Associationofof Teachers' Manitoba: Retired Retired Manitoba: Teachers Teachers Ernie Nathaniel, Nathaniel,Tangi TangiBell Bell Ernie and Armand ArmandPoirier: Poirier: and Unpolluted Water WaterAquifers Aquifers Unpolluted Andrea Richardson Richardsonand and Andrea Gladys Nielson: Nielson: Hearing Hearing Gladys Health Health Kobra Hosseini Hosseiniand andDaniel Daniel Kobra Awshek: Refugee RefugeeSupport Support Awshek:

2024 2024

POLITICAL UPDATES

RTAM Meeting with the Liberal Party of Manitoba

and suggestions. One of which meeting with keen insight and will hopefully lead the new suggestions. One of which will Board of Directors to create a hopefully lead the new Board of committee for review of key Directors createand a committee issues withtopublic political for review of key issues with stakeholders. public and political stakeholders.

Cindy also imparted three (3) Cindy also imparted three (3) key messages on behalf of the key messages on behalf of the Liberal Party to RTAM Liberal Party to RTAM members: members: Past Director David Harkness and RTAM President Linda Blair, pose with Cindy Lamoureux, Liberal Party of Manitoba (interim leader) and the signed copy of Bill 208 at the Provincial Legislative Building this past April.

into the office WWhenhenyouyouwalk walk into the

of the Liberal Party of office of the Liberal Party of Manitoba, you’re instantly hit Manitoba, you’re instantly hit with history of the room and with history of the room and the people who have served the people who have served Manitobans since 1870.

Manitobans since 1870. Sharon

Carstairs, John Gerrard and Sharon Carstairs, John Gerrard Kevin Lamoureux are just and Kevin Lamoureux are just some of the familiar names some of the familiar names to to voters, last which, voters, thethe last of of which, the the Lamoureux family, Lamoureux family, hashas become become our own version our own version of the of the Kennedy’s or Bush’s.

They Kennedy’s or Bush’s.

They are are Manitoba the Manitoba contribution the contribution to to famous multi-generational famous multi-generational Ministers and Ministers and public public servants. servants. rtam.mb.ca

This past April, the interim leader of the Manitoba Liberal This past April, the interim Party, Cindy Lamoureux leaderMLA of the Manitoba Liberal hosted pastCindy RTAMLamoureux Director Party, MLA David who presented hostedHarkness past RTAM Director on matter of retirees, pensions David Harkness who shared and the impact of COLA. RTAM his views on retirees, pensions President Linda Blair was also and the impact of COLA. RTAM in attendance to present on President Linda Blair was also substitute teacher needs and in attendance to present on those of all retired teachers. substitute teacher needs and

thoseLamoureux of all retired teachers.

MLA showed great consideration for many of the MLA Lamoureux showed great ideas being brought forward consideration for many of the and added greatly to the ideas being brought forward meeting with keen insight and added greatly to the

1. The Liberal Party appreciates 1.The Party theLiberal advocacy andappreciates effort of the advocacy and effort of RTAM and its Directors and RTAM and its Directors and looks forward to working looks forward to working on on projects with all parties projects with all parties together in the future. together in the future.

2. T here is a great history 2. There is a both greatgroups historyand between between both groups and ongoing success as we both ongoing success as we both work to change legislation for work to change legislation for Retired Educators.

Retired Educators.

3. T he Liberals have concerns 3. The haveolder concerns for Liberals retirees and adults for as retirees and older adults as it relates to healthcare and it relates to healthcare and the the affordability of increasing affordability of increasing medication and services. This medication and services. This and COLA remain important and COLA remain important topics of discussion. topics of discussion.

RTAM Manitoba,2024 Canada 25

RTAM AND THE PC PARTY OF MANITOBA

David Harkness (past RTAM Director), Grant Jackson (Conservative Party of Manitoba) and RTAM President, Linda Blair.

RTAM was honored to meet Grant Jackson from the PC Party of Manitoba this past April.

As RTAM continues to meet with political partners and stakeholders, President Linda Blair reached out to the office of MLA Jackson to schedule an interview and meeting between him and RTAM representatives.

Mr. Jackson was very quick to reply and to book a meeting, immediately sharing how important he felt RTAM was as a party partner and as a resource to retirees in Manitoba.

The former Brandon University grad spent close to two hours in the RTAM office, hearing updates about teachers pensions, cost of living increase,

substitute teacher concerns and even Pharmacare was reviewed and discussed.

The meeting was productive as the PC Party of Manitoba remains an ally to RTAM and retired teachers in Manitoba. Below are three (3) takeaways from the meeting with Grant.

He is hearing from everyone that we need more schools and space for students. This is a large concern for him and the party. Education is a priority.

He and his party really want to see the education funding model from the NDP sooner than later. They want to ensure there is time for review and community feedback.

RTAM is an amazing voice for retired teachers and older adults. Grant is excited to work with us on concerns and solutions.

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:

Phone Number:

Cell Number:

Postal Code:

E-mail Address: Relationship to Recipient: Portfolio Language Preference:

0 English

or

0 French

RECIPIENT’S INFORMATION (RELATIVE) PLEASE PRINT

First Name:

Last Name:

Address: City/Town:

Province:

Phone Number:

Cell Number:

E-mail Address:

Postal Code: Grade (please check): 0 9 0 10 0 11

0 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!

106-1780 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B3 • Phone 204-889-3660 • Toll Free: 1-888-393-8882 • info@rtam.mb.ca • www.rtam.mb.ca

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 27

Student Awards Program

By Jayesh Maniar

RTAM Members can sponsor, their child, grandchild, great grandchild, niece, or nephew who is a Grade 12 graduate and entering their first year in a university or a college, for a RTAM Student Award.

There are four $1000.00 CDN awards given annually. The application form must be received in the RTAM Office on or before July 31, 2024, by mail drop-off by 4:00 PM or by email by 11:59 PM. For Application Form, go to Student Awards (rtam.mb.ca/profile/ studentawards).

Benefits to RTAM Member • Develop a closer relationship with the young person being sponsored that will carry a lifetime of memories. These relationships are priceless.

• Allows a member an opportunity to learn

about the passions and dreams of their family member.

•W ith the member’s encouragement, the student’s life will be enriched.

Benefits to Student •D evelop a closer relationship with the award sponsor and form a bond that will provide a lifetime of memories.

•A llows students an opportunity to highlight their experiences and passion, specifically their academic grades, school-related activities, community involvement, leadership roles, and employment.

Student Success Portfolio The Student Success Portfolio is designed to encourage students to

develop a portfolio to collect their artifacts from Grade 9 through Grade 12 which are valuable in applying for the Student Awards and other scholarships, bursaries, and awards.

• A portfolio serves as a physical framework to support the collection of samples of evidence significant to meet the requirements for the RTAM Student Award.

• The development of a portfolio supports students to collectively organize all their achievements, leadership skills, and experiences over their four years in high school.

For more information, visit Student Success Portfolios (rtam.mb.ca/profile/ ssp). When you click on More Information, there is more specific information for the sponsor and the student.

Author Review

Joe Nesbo

Submitted by Penny Hogan

Fans of mystery fiction who haven’t discovered Jo Nesbo are in for a treat. Jo Nesbo is an Oslo, Norwaybased author whose novels have been translated into 55 languages. Nesbo introduced his detective character Harry Hole (pronounced Hole-eh) in ’The Bat’ published in 1997. Each of the 13 books in Nesbo’s series can be read as stand-alone novels, although there is a core of interconnected characters throughout the series.

The main character Harry Hole is best described as an anti-hero. To his Oslo Crime Squad colleagues Hole is a brilliant detective who despite his struggles with alcoholism and depression, and his serious lack of social graces, manages to solve the latest mystery. Some reviewers have compared Nesbo’s Harry Hole to the likes of Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot. The city of Oslo as the main setting in the books takes on a character of its own through the author’s apt descriptions of Harry’s surroundings.

‘The Snowman’ published in 2007, drew me into the series. I have since read most of the series, all borrowed from my local library. Nesbo’s books are widely available in bookstores, and online. Just when I think I have figured things out, I am surprised by an unexpected plot twist in the last few pages. Nesbo seems to have mastered the art of keeping his reader guessing until the very last page. Reading about Harry’s growth in self-awareness as time passes through each book in the series is an added bonus.

28 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

RTAM STUDENT AWARD APPLICATION FORM The Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) annually awards four (4) post-secondary STUDENT AWARDS of $1,000 each to relatives of RTAM members.

Criteria for selection (the applicant must be): 1) 2) 3) 4)

A relative of an RTAM Member (child, grandchild, niece or nephew) Involved in school and community activities A Grade 12 graduate Entering the first year of a post-secondary education program (University or College)

Submissions to include the following:  Student Award Application Form  Applicant’s comprehensive written description of employment, school and community activities (one page)  One (1) letter of reference/support from a non-family member (one page)  Final official high school transcript of marks (copy only) If further information is required, please contact the RTAM office (see below).

APPLICANT’S INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT) Full name: Mailing Address: City/Town:

Province/State:

Phone Number:

Postal Code/ZIP:

Cell Number:

E-mail Address: Year Graduated:

School Name (Graduated from Grade12): School Street Address: City/Town:

Province/State:

Did you receive an RTAM Student Success Portfolio?

 Yes

Postal Code/ZIP:

 No

Post Secondary Plans Program

Location

RTAM SPONSORING MEMBER INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT) Full Name: Mailing Address: City/Town:

Province/State:

Phone Number:

Postal Code/ZIP:

Cell Number:

Email Address: TO BE COMPLETED BY SPONSORING RTAM MEMBER:

I confirm that the applicant

, has the following relationship to me

RTAM Member’s Signature:

Date:

Applicant’s Signature:

Date:

THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JULY 31, 2024 by mail/drop-off at 4:00 pm or by email at 11:59 pm Only the winners will be contacted in early fall.

Office/Voicemail Phone: 204-889-3660 Manitoba Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 Fax: 1-204-783-2011

Email: info@rtam.mb.ca Website: www.rtam.mb.ca

106 – 1780 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B3

RTAM Manitoba, Canada 29

Programme de bourse d’études par Jayesh Maniar

Les membres de l’Association des enseignants retraités du Manitoba (RTAM) peuvent présenter une demande de Bourse d’études RTAM pour leur enfant, petit-enfant, arrière-petit-enfant, nièce ou neveu qui a obtenu un diplôme de 12e année et qui entreprendra une première année d’études universitaires ou collégiales. Quatre bourses d’une valeur de 1 000 $ CA chacune seront décernées chaque année. Le formulaire de mise en candidature doit être reçu au bureau de RTAM au plus tard le 31 juillet 2024, par la poste ou par livraison avant 16 h ou par courriel avant 23 h 59.

•A voir l’occasion d’en apprendre davantage sur les passions et les rêves du jeune membre de sa famille.

•P articiper à enrichir la vie de l’étudiant ou l’étudiante avec cette marque d’encouragement.

Avantage pour l’étudiant ou l’étudiante •D évelopper une relation plus étroite avec la personne ayant présenté la mise en candidature et créer un lien qui sera une source de souvenirs inoubliables.

Pour obtenir le formulaire de mise en candidature, rendez-vous à Student Awards (rtam.mb.ca/profile/ studentawards).

•M ettre en valeur ses expériences et ses passions, au niveau de ses résultats scolaires, de ses activités liées à l’école, de son engagement communautaire, de ses rôles de leadership, et de l’emploi.

Avantages pour le membre de RTAM

Dossier de la réussite scolaire

• Établir avec la jeune personne une relation plus étroite dont il gardera un précieux souvenir sa vie durant. Ces relations n’ont pas de prix.

Le Dossier de la réussite scolaire est conçu pour encourager l’étudiant ou l’étudiante à créer un dossier qui rassemblera ses travaux de la 9e à la

12e année, lequel sera utile lors de la présentation d’une demande de bourse d’études RTAM, ou d’autres bourses, prix ou récompenses.

• Le dossier est un support physique qui vient appuyer la collecte d’échantillons nécessaires pour prouver que l’étudiant ou l’étudiante satisfait aux exigences de la Bourse d’études RTAM. • L’élaboration d’un dossier aide l’étudiant ou l’étudiante à organiser et à rassembler l’ensemble de ses réalisations, de ses aptitudes en leadership et de ses expériences au cours de ses quatre années d’études secondaires.

De plus amples renseignements se trouvent à la page Dossiers de la réussite scolaire (rtam.mb.ca/profile/ssp). De l’information plus détaillée à l’intention du membre commanditaire ou de l’étudiant ou l’étudiante se trouve à l’onglet « Plus de renseignements ».

Life Members January 24

February 2024

March 2023

Steve Onyschak – Winnipeg, MB

Celine Dansereau – Winnipeg, MB Hilde Ilmer – Winnipeg, MB Marian E. Martin – Winnipeg, MB Louise I. Perrault – Winnipeg, MB Oriole A. Veldhuis – Winnipeg, MB Jeanne V. Witwicki – Winnipeg, MB

Shirley J. Murphy – Grandview, MB Ephraim F. White – Toronto, ON

30 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

DEMANDE DE BOURSE D’ÉTUDES DE LA RTAM

La Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) décerne chaque année quatre (4) BOURSES D’ÉTUDES postsecondaires d’une valeur de 1 000 $ chacune à des étudiants parents avec des membres de la RTAM. Critères de sélection (l’étudiant(e) doit être) : 1) 2) 3) 4)

parent avec un membre de la RTAM (enfant, petit-enfant, nièce ou neveu) engagé(e) dans des activités scolaires et communautaires e diplômé(e) de la 12 année inscrit(e) en première année d’un programme d’études postsecondaires (d’une université ou d’un collège)

La demande doit inclure les documents suivants : 0 Formulaire de demande de bourse d’études 0 Description complète de l’emploi, de l’école et des activités communautaires de l’étudiant(e) (1 page) 0 Une lettre de référence ou d’appui d’une personne qui n’est pas un membre de la famille (1 page) 0 Dernier relevé de notes officiel de l’école secondaire (copie seulement) Pour de plus amples renseignements, prière de communiquer avec la RTAM (voir ci-dessous).

RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR L’ÉTUDIANT(E) (EN LETTRES MOULÉES) Nom complet : Adresse postale : Ville/village :

Province/État :

Numéro de téléphone :

Code postal/ZIP :

Numéro de cellulaire :

Adresse courriel : Année d’obtention du diplôme :

e

Nom de l’école (d’où le diplôme de 12 année a été obtenu) : Adresse de l’école : Ville/village :

Province/État :

Avez-vous reçu un dossier de réussite scolaire de la RTAM? 0 Oui

Code postal/ZIP : 0 Non

Projets d’études postsecondaires Programme

Endroit

RENSEIGNEMENTS SUR LE MEMBRE DE LA RTAM PARRAINANT L’ÉTUDIANT(E) (EN LETTRES MOULÉES) Nom complet : Adresse postale : Ville/village :

Province/État :

Numéro de téléphone :

Code postal/ZIP :

Numéro de cellulaire :

Adresse courriel : À ÊTRE REMPLI PAR LE MEMBRE DE LA RTAM PARRAINANT L’ÉTUDIANT(E) : Je confirme que l’étudiant(e), ___________________________, a le lien de parenté suivant avec moi :_______________________ Signature du membre de la RTAM :

Date :

Signature de l’étudiant(e) :

Date : DATE LIMITE DE SOUMISSION DES DEMANDES : 31 JUILLET 2024

par la poste/livraison : 16 h; par courriel : 23 h 59 Seuls les récipiendaires seront contactés, et ce, en début d’automne.

Bureau/Boîte vocale: 204-889-3660 Manitoba (sans frais): 1-888-393-8082 Télécopieur: 1-204-783-2011

Courriel: info@rtam.mb.ca Site Web: www.rtam.mb.ca

106 – 1780, avenue Wellington Winnipeg (Manitoba) R3H 1B3

In loving memory of all our RTAM members

November 2022 Rodney S. Lindquist – Winnipeg, MB

April 2023 Hardo W. Bewer – Winnipeg, MB Valerie H. Bowles – Winnipeg, MB December 2022 Louise-Anne Buhr – Winnipeg, MB David W. Curtis – Surrey, BC Phyllis L. Cook – Winnipeg, MB Christine H. Massan – Gillam, MB Leo J. Delaquis – Winnipeg, MB Lawrence Giesbrecht – Altona, MB “The above RTAM members, were regretfully Agnes F. Grobowsky – Winnipeg, MB Merrill D. Groff – Winnipeg, MB missed from our 2022-2023 AGM list. We sincerely Lawrence C. Hoffman – Winnipeg, MB apologize to their families.”

Evelyne Holenski – Winnipeg, MB Jean-Joseph J. Isme – Montreal, QC March 2023 Leslie E. G. Ainge – Winnipeg, MB Mary L. Jackson – Winnipeg, MB Sandra Allen – Winnipeg, MB Linda J. Lenius – Winnipeg, MB Robert E. Benedictson – Portage la Prairie, MB Diane E. Little – Ottawa, ON Mike Biluk – Winnipeg, MB M. Irene Loewen – Winnipeg, MB Donna M. Cochrane – East St. Paul, MB Norman A. MacDonald – Winnipeg, MB Kenneth W. Ellison – Winnipeg, MB F. Jean McQuarrie – Oak Lake, MB Lillian Glenn – Brandon, MB Gordon Menzies – Winnipeg, MB Melanie M. M. Hall – Winnipeg, MB Lois J. Nay – Brandon, MB B Carol Hawn – Winnipeg, MB Alice K. Olive – Brandon, MB Lydia K. Hedrich – St. Andrews, MB H. Marion Pederson – Vita, MB Robert J. Hobbs – Neepawa, MB Ronald B. Perron – Winnipeg, MB Roxanne D. Klassen – Steinbach, MB Ivan Pokus – Winnipeg, MB Margaret M. Kulczycki – Winnipeg, MB Donald R. Smorang – St. Andrews, MB Kevin W. MacKay – Winnipeg, MB Charles R. Snow – Winnipeg, MB Jack Mohr – Winnipeg, MB Leonora Unrau – Saskatoon, SK Henry W. Peters – Winnipeg, MB Donald C. Rankmore – Glenboro, MB May 2023 Ronald L. Rayner – Winnipeg, MB Julien O. Allard – Winnipeg, MB L. Arthur Reimer – Winnipeg, MB Carole J. Anderson – Carman, MB Barbara V. Smith – Pilot Mound, MB Raymond K. Bradshaw – Winnipeg, MB Kaye A. Snatenchuk – East St. Paul, MB A Morley Campbell – East St. Paul, MB F. Faye Speers – Griswold, MB Dorothy E. Cox – Carberry, MB William J. Stevenson – Winnipeg, MB Esther K. Dobson-Golletz – Onanole, MB Henry J. Toews – Winnipeg, MB Thelma M. Enns – Winnipeg, MB Russell Tymos – Winnipeg, MB Ruth J. Follis – Pilot Mound, MB Roger G. Vermette – St. Jean Baptiste, MB Cheryl E. Freeman – Winnipeg, MB Mohamed Hawash – Gimli, MB

In Memoriam Continued

May 2023 Continued Nicholas Hudyma – Dauphin, MB Jack H. Hyde – Winnipeg, MB Carolee J. King – Winnipeg, MB Ralph G. Lyndon – Winnipeg, MB Judith C. G. Maltman – Winnipeg, MB Donald W. Orloff – Winnipeg, MB Sylvia M. Peiluck – Gimli, MB Kenneth G. Petkau – Morden, MB Albert J. Prestayko – Winnipeg, MB Anita M. Riffel – Winnipeg, MB Joan A. Shields – Brandon, MB Raymond L. Sitter – Brandon, MB Michael T. Smith – Pinawa, MB Terrence J. Sprott – Erickson, MB Ronald H. Stevens – Winnipeg, MB Beatrice E. Venables – Powell River, BC Maureen J. Wood – Winnipeg, MB Harvey R. Young – Brandon, MB Anita R. Zimmer – Russell, MB June 2023 Clare Anderson – Nanoose Bay, BC Richard H. Bender – Niverville, MB Linda J. Bradley – Peterborough, ON E Andrina Draper – Goulds, NL Philippe J. Dufort – Winnipeg, MB Dennis P. Hallick – Winnipeg, MB Glen J. Hammond – Winnipeg, MB Glenna A. Lambert – Winnipeg, MB A Muriel McHaffie – Ottawa, ON Nettie Nakonechny – Dauphin, MB David C. Riddell – Jalisco, Mexico Marie Sedor – Winnipeg, MB Cathrine M. Starkell – Winnipeg, MB L Claude Steeves – Winnipeg, MB Patricia M. Turner – Brandon, MB James A. Wycoff – East St. Paul, MB July 2023 Clara D. Anderson – Stonewall, MB Diane R. Barlishen – Winnipeg, MB Vera R. Butterworth – Winnipeg, MB

July 2023 - continued David H. Cochrane – Neepawa, MB Madeline F. Coopsammy – Winnipeg, MB Madeleine R. Enns – Winnipeg, MB Brian G. Jasper – Gimli, MB Alan W. Kaye – Winnipeg, MB Doris M. Kristjanson – Winnipeg, MB Helen I. McGregor – Brandon, MB Gerald D. Rey – St. Claude, MB Larry G. Shields – Winnipeg, MB Inez C. Steele – Winnipeg, MB Jessie Zacharias – Winnipeg, MB Rosalie S. Zatser – Winnipeg, MB August 2023 Gerald Bitney – Winnipeg, MB Gerald Boehm – Winnipeg, MB Mary Derksen – Steinbach, MB Ross Fahlman – Russell, MB David H. Friesen – Winnipeg, MB Valeria M. Gillis – Winnipeg, MB Rhoda M. Lambert – Portage la Prairie, MB William B. McNeice – Winnipeg, MB Maria Moseychuk – Dauphin, MB G Barry Nelin – Nanaimo, BC Leonard Neufeld – Beaconia, MB Lily I. Sewell – Winnipeg, MB Robert M. Swayze – Brandon, MB H. Raymond Turner – Winnipeg, MB Candace Wolfe – Brandon, MB Myrtle Wilson – Kelowna, BC September 2023 Nancy M. Adkins – Winnipeg, MB Robert A. Baker – Salmon Arm, BC Laurie J. Bush – Beausejour, MB Alvin H. Funk – Ste. Anne, MB Carolyn J. Gadsby – Winnipeg, MB William S. Gallinger – Ste. Anne, MB Ellen M. Gould – Winnipeg, MB Robert E. Hague – Winnipeg, MB Garnet B. Hyndman – Hamiota, MB Roy Johnson – Winnipeg, MB

In Memoriam Continued

September 2023 - continued Gerald Jones – Selkirk, MB Charles W. Kurtz – Winnipeg, MB George B. D. Perkins – Hamiota, MB Clifford E. Pirie – Strathclair, MB Barbara J. Plumb – Brandon, MB Maureen R. Ramage – Cartwright, MB Hortense M. Wilcott – Pine Falls, MB Sharon L. Zilkey – Souris, MB

October 2023 Margaret Bergen – Winnipeg, MB William M. Bolley – Brandon, MB Walter S. Cheslock – Winnipeg, MB Roy A. Einarson – Mulgrave, NS James Farmer – Matlock, MB Thomas L. Gallant – Pictou, NS Ruth A. Kopp – Saint John, NB Clarence R. Koss – Kelowna, BC Lucienne Lavallee – Winnipeg, MB Robert McCormick – Winnipeg Beach, MB Carol A. McGonigal – Winnipeg, MB Robert G. McIntosh – Belair, MB Maria M. Michalchuk – Rossburn, MB John Sawatzky – Steinbach, MB Ruthann I. Schadek – Winnipeg, MB Alvin C. Semenek – Winnipeg, MB Blake B. Surman – Winnipeg, MB Jeanne E. Turner – Parkland County, AB Garry D. Winfield – Winnipeg, MB November 2023 P. Joyce Aitken – Winnipeg, MB John T. Barsby – Winnipeg, MB Barbara L. Brandt – Winnipeg, MB Maria C. Fournier – Selkirk, MB James D. Hamm – Calgary, AB Robert C. Harvey – Langley, BC Shirley J. Hicks – Beausejour, MB Lawrence R. Hodkinson – Winnipeg, MB Lorne P. Kornelsen – Rosenort, MB John R. Lohrenz – Winnipeg, MB

November 2023 - continued Joan L. Main – Balmoral, MB Robert N. McAlpine – Winnipeg, MB Kimberley D. Midford – East St. Paul, MB Edmund J. Mulholland – Winnipeg, MB Joan N. Prokopow – The Pas, MB Jeannette Ruest – Winnipeg, MB Arthur R. Turner – Ninette, MB Marlene Ward – Winnipeg, MB Barbara M. Waterman – Selkirk, MB Elenore I. Wieler – Portage la Prairie, MB James H. Will – Winnipeg, MB Dennis E. Wilson – Winnipeg, MB

December 2023 William C. Barlow – Gimli, MB Aneta A. C. Betcher – Swan River, MB Gloria J. Breznik – Petersfield, MB Edgar G. Freynet – Winnipeg, MB Paul Granovsky – Winnipeg, MB Edwin C. Johnson – Brandon, MB Miriam I. Kalb - Winnipeg, MB Roseanne E. Keyes - Winnipeg, MB Raymond Klippenstein – Altona, MB Raymond A. Le Neal – Treherne, MB Virginia Martin – Winnipeg, MB Maureen J. McGowan – Winnipeg, MB Joyce A. McLeod – Winnipeg, MB Martha A. Moffat – La Barriere, MB Evelyn G. Peterson – Winnipeg, MB Darlene D. Schade – Winnipeg, MB Sandra J. Schledewitz – Winnipeg, MB Moira A. Skelding – Winnipeg, MB Marlene A. Watson – St Andrews, MB January 2024 Julia L. Berthlette – Kinosota, MB Helene M. Clement – Winnipeg, MB William J. Cook – Thompson, MB Don G. Goltz – Edmonton, AB Marjorie B. Hadaller – Anola, MB Robert M. Harbottle – Winnipeg, MB

In Memoriam Continued January 2024 - continued Morley L. Hartel – Virden, MB Mildred O. Henderson – Flin Flon, MB Rita F. Hettig – Winnipeg, MB William D. Illsey – Riverport, NS Hardy Kehler – Steinbach, MB Holly P. Korba – Winnipeg, MB Patricia S. Kreklewetz – Winnipeg, MB Paul M. Olenick – Swan River, MB Doreen E. Oliver – Selkirk, MB Barbara L. Payment – Fisher Branch, MB E. Eugene Quasso – Steinbach, MB Janice R. Rae – Winnipeg, MB Eveline M. Reese – Thornton, ON Louis J. Reginer – Winnipeg, MB Esther G. Reid – Winnipeg, MB Olaf Reinart – Winnipeg, MB Claretta Shefrin – Winnipeg, MB Dennis M. Skibinsky – Neepawa, MB Inez B. Striemer – Winnipeg, MB A Hal Sveistrup – Rivers, MB Beverley A. Vargo – Winnipeg, MB Ian A. Wingfield – Winnipeg, MB S. Lorraine Woods-Bavasah – Winnipeg, MB February 2024 William Andrews – Brandon, MB Bill Bergman – Altona, MB Sonia Earle – Meaford, ON Emily M. Cherney – Roblin, MB Edwin R. Douglas – Navin, MB Evelyn M. Hagen – Winnipeg, MB Mary E. Hamilton – Sherwood Park, AB John P. Harper – Winnipeg, MB Susanna Hildebrandt – Winkler, MB Claudia M. Jaresh – Winnipeg, MB Darryl S. Johnson – Winnipeg, MB Socorro Juan – Winnipeg, M Isai E. Lujan – Winnipeg, MB Carolina A. Meseric – East St Paul, MB Anne Neufeld – Winnipeg, MB Norris G. Pawlychka – Winnipeg, MB

February 2024 - continued Arthur J. Peters – Winnipeg, MB Beryle E. Plews – Winnipeg, MB Karen J. Pursaga – Winnipeg, MB Janet E. Redgwell – Winnipeg, MB Russell T. Reid – Lac du Bonnet, MB Edward Richenhaller – Swan River, MB Sr. Helene Rousseau – Winnipeg, MB Dorothy M. Sadler – Winnipeg, MB Freida R. Tolton – Morden, MB Jeanne V. Witwicki – Winnipeg, MB March 2024 Shirley A. Allen – Thompson, MB Margaret E. L. Evaschesen – West St Paul, MB Beverley Franklin - Winnipeg, MB Hugh J. Fraser – Holland, MB Sandra J. Fraser – Winnipeg, MB Janice L. Gardner – Winnipeg, MB Juliette M. Granger – La Salle, MB Carl R. Hultin – Winnipeg, MB Odette Jobin – Cumming, GA (USA) Brenda M. Johnston – Winnipeg, MB Janet B. Lundman – Victoria, BC Marian E. Martin – Winnipeg, MB M. Elaine Mayer – Winnipeg, MB Diana M. Neuman – McCreary, MB John D. Parrington – Winnipeg, MB Jacob Penner – Seven Persons, AB Evelyn A. Rheaume – Winnipeg, MB Jocelyne Scott – Winnipeg, MB Gary N. Shapira – Winnipeg, MB Alex Shalay – Winnipeg, MB Dennis M. Turek – St. Laurent, MB Adriano Valentin – Winnipeg, MB

Stuffed Bell Peppers

All recipes submitted by Gisèle Grégoire

Ingredients:

Directions:

4 red, green, orange or yellow bell peppers, tops sliced and saved 2 cups cooked basmati rice (warm) 2 tbsp olive oil 2 cloves of garlic minced 1/2 an onion, finely chopped 1 cup finely chopped Cremini mushrooms 1/2 cup finely chopped Kalamata olives 2/3 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store bought) 1/2 a cup shredded parmesan cheese 1 small handful of fresh basil chopped 1 tbsp of fresh chopped parsley Pinch of red pepper flakes, black pepper and salt

Slice off tops of bell peppers, remove seeds and discard. Place open side down in square glass baking dish with 1/4 inch of water. Microwave for 5 minutes to gently steam the peppers. Set aside

Serves 4

Heat olive oil and saute all the chopped ingredients except for the olives. Remove from pan and place in large bowl. Add warm rice, tomato sauce, chopped olives, basil, parsley, pinch of pepper flakes and shredded parmesan. Toss well to combine ingredients (the cheese will melt slightly). Season with salt and pepper.

Stuff each pepper with filling and place in square baking dish.

Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Remove from oven, place the pepper tops on each pepper. Cover with foil. Cook another 15 minutes or until tender.

Fresh Berry Salad 2 cups sliced strawberries 2 cups blueberries 2 cups raspberries 1 tbsp finely grated lime zest 2 tbsp lime juice 3 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Place all the berries and ingredients in a large bowl and gently stir to combine. Cover and refrigerate for one hour to allow flavours to develop. Serve with vanilla ice cream or plain yogurt.

Roasted Whole Steelhead Trout Fillet 1 large whole Steelhead trout filet (about 3 lb/1.4kg)

Marinade

Instructions

3 tbsp pure maple syrup 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice 3 tbsp grainy Dijon mustard 2 tbsp minced fresh dill 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp grated lemon zest 1 tsp minced garlic 1/4 tsp each sea salt and fresh ground black pepper 1 lemon, very thinly sliced

Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly oil. Place the trout filet in baking dish and set aside.

Makes 8 servings

36 RTAM KIT / Summer 2024

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together maple syrup, lemon juice, mustard, dill, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over trout and turn to coat both sides with marinade.

Arrange lemon slices over trout. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 425 F. Roast trout (with marinade), uncovered, for about 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, a rice side dish, or a leafy green salad.

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