Posts Tagged ‘August 2025’
AESES Volunteers’ Appreciation Banquet 2025
Friday, August 1st, 2025
Annually, AESES acknowledges, thanks, and celebrates its Board of Representatives and longstanding volunteers. This year’s event took place at the Norwood Hotel at the end of April. Rob Parker, AESES President, presented the following pins and awards after supper:
Bronze Pin – 5 Years of Service
- Michaela Ablaza*
- Joey Pothe
Silver Pin – 10 Years of Service
- Debbie Armstrong
- Tessa Pearen*
- Melinda Sasek
- Colleen Thompson
Gold Pin – 15 Years of Service
- Lynne Wichenko
* pictured
Dedicated Service Award
The Dedicated Service Award was posthumously awarded to Anne Ferenc and presented to Anne’s close friend, Louise Sabourin. Anne’s consistent and unwavering dedication to AESES was recognized with this award. Anne’s contributions to AESES started over 15 years ago with the Board and various committees over the years, ending with the Activities Committee that oversaw the Children’s Winter Holiday Extravaganza, among other events.
Honourary Life Member Award
An Honourary Life Membership is the ultimate recognition by AESES and, therefore, should be considered as being somewhat restrictive. Honourary Life Membership will be granted only to those who have contributed outstanding or meritorious service to the Association over a substantial period of time. This year, Gloria Saindon was recognized with an Honourary Life Membership award at the banquet. Unfortunately, Gloria was unable to attend.
Past-President Memorial
The final presentation of the evening was by Laurie Morris in memory of Chris McCann. Laurie retold stories of Chris’ achievements for AESES and how proud she was to have known him. Laurie then presented Chris’ wife, Karey, a bronzed bison statue in honour of his commitment and past presidency to AESES. The plaque on the statue read, “Chris McCann Thank you for your tenacious commitment to AESES and its membership since 2000, culminating as president in 2024. AESES celebrates your positive and lasting legacy.” Sarah McCann then took the stage for an emotional thank you on behalf of the McCann family.
After the presentations and speeches, the night ended with fun-filled casino games.
A huge thank you to all our volunteers who provide their time and expertise to help the organization and the members. Volunteers are the lifeblood of AESES and essential to continued success and support for members.
If you are reading this and would like to volunteer, visit these respective pages: Board of Representatives or Committees, or email aeses@aeses.ca.
President’s Message – August 2025
Friday, August 1st, 2025
Ah – the dog days of summer!
The thought often connotes lazy doggos, lounging and relaxing in the summer heat. At least that is what I see in my mind’s eye. Historically, however, the adage has had a completely different meaning. More specifically, it was associated with the rising of the star Sirius, which ancient folk believed coincided with extreme temperatures, eventually driving people and, yes, even dogs mad!
These days, however, we understand that it is merely just a wonderful time of year to take some time off, recharge, and enjoy the hopefully great weather we all so much deserve.
Things are no different at AESES, where our folks, both paid and volunteer, look forward to taking time to spend with family and friends. Still, there are always things happening to ensure that our members are well cared for and that our best interests are kept at the forefront.
Bargaining at The University of Winnipeg is underway, and at the University of Manitoba, the deadlines for the submission of proposals and nominations for the Negotiation Committee have now passed. We have had many proposals from our members, and the negotiation committee will soon begin the work of preparing these submissions for the bargaining table. The Bargaining Committee will then be struck from this body and will begin to bargain in earnest with the University.
Information on the process at the UM can be found here if you’re interested. Please keep an eye on this space as well as on our website and social media (Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn) for updates.
Both the Winnipeg Blue Bombers game on July 18 and the Winnipeg Goldeyes afternoon on July 27 were well attended, and a wonderful time was had by all. A huge shout-out to all four of our local sports teams for the great deal they provided again for our members!
Finally, I would like to remind you that we have deals in place for member discounts with both Perkopolis and Union Savings on a variety of goods and services. Lots of ‘em! Please take advantage! You can learn more here.
Enjoy these wonderful dog days of summer! Remember – AESES is here – whenever you need us!
In Solidarity,
Rob