The members of the MARTA Branch of NBSRT are always eager for an opportunity to gather together and have fun, and this year’s Spring Potluck Luncheon and Scholarship Auction, held at the historic Seamen’s Hospital in Douglastown, on Thursday, April 16, was true-to-form. Not at all deterred by local traffic detours, 40 members were in attendance and all of them were looking forward to each other’s company, a delicious meal and plenty of fun.
As members arrived and gathered to socialize, they were greeted by a bright and cheery spring-themed setting, courtesy of the Wellness Committee, which certainly enlivened everyone’s spirits. Friendly chatter ensued and cheery smiles were evident from the get-go!
Fundraiser ticket sales were held for the MARTA Scholarship and Bursary Fund, and for the expense account for the MARTA 50 Anniversary AGM, which is to be held at the Rodd Miramichi River Hotel on May 26. Members eagerly participated in ticket sales, before the luncheon commenced and in advance of the time deadline for draws.
Wellness Committee Chair Lois Gilliss opened the event with a cordial greeting and warm welcome to all. Prior to the luncheon being served, she kindly said grace, which she had especially prepared for the occasion and with the members in mind.
The luncheon choices were varied and beyond abundant to satiate the appetites of a small army, thanks to the generosity of members. If the fine company and delicious meal were not enough to make everyone’s day, the Scholarship Fundraiser Auction proved to be the finishing touch, hosted by auctioneers Donnie O’Neill and John Bosma. Needless to say, this duo has become somewhat legendary with members of MARTA and beyond, for their fine sense of humour and spontaneity, which always leaves everyone in side-splitting guffaws of laughter, and perhaps with their wallets somewhat lighter, definitely for a very worthwhile cause.
Among the many fun activities that occur at MARTA events and social gatherings are the prize draws, and the 2026 Potluck Luncheon and Auction was no exception. During the gathering the following members were the lucky winners of this fine events’ draws:
50/50 Scholarship Fundraiser, prize: $107.50 Winner: Twila Sturgeon
2026 50 AGM Fundraiser, prize: $50.00 Gas Card Winner: Twila Sturgeon (It certainly was a lucky day for Twila!)
MARTA 50 AGM Early Bird Registration, prize: $50.00 Winner: Eleanor Watt
Onsite Registration for 2026 MARTA 50 AGM, prize: Commemorative 50 AGM Coffee Mug Winner: Annette Hendry
The MARTA Branch of NBSRT offers an incredible abundance of enjoyment and involvement to retired teachers. If you already have retired and want to become involved, or if you may be planning on retirement, you can access the online application membership form at: https://nbsrt.org/ under the homepage top margin heading of Forms. You certainly will be pleased with your decision. Come on along with us! Most likely you will discover are a rather easy going and friendly lot.
