March 2010 Senior Living Magazine Island Edition by INSPIRED 55+ Lifestyle Magazine

MARCH 2010 TM

Vancouver Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 50+ Active Lifestyle Magazine

QUADING

Reaching New Heights

Tinkertown Museum

worth a visit

Diabetes

Are you at risk?

The Sorcerer takes to the stage

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�� PREPARED FOR: PENINSULA NORGARDEN PUBLICATION: SENIOR LIVING INSERTION DATE: MARCH SIZE: 7.25” X 4.75” PREPARED BY: BRAVO ADVERTISING 250 590 1169

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Bringing Our “Neighbourhood” to Yours Innovative Alzheimer’s care at Sunrise of Victoria

Sunrise of Victoria provides specially designed Alzheimer’s care based on each resident’s rich history and individual needs. The result is a personalized environment as loving as it is innovative. We call it the Reminiscence Neighbourhood.

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And because each resident is gently guided along in a place that looks and feels like home, every day is a pleasant day in the neighbourhood.

Call today and visit our Reminiscence Neighbourhood

LICENSED RESIDENTIAL CARE

Sunrise of Victoria • 920 Humboldt Street • 250.383.1366 www.sunriseseniorliving.ca

MARCH 2010

(Vancouver Island) is published by Stratis Publishing. Publisher Barbara Risto Editor Bobbie Jo Reid

FEATURES

Contributors Norman K. Archer, Zan Boyle, Ronald Callender, Goldie Carlow, Judee Fong, Gipp Forster, Gary Grieco, Maggie Kielpinski, Enise Olding, De Rogers, Rosalind Scott, Barbara Small, Alixe Wallis

For active Baby Boomers who trade two wheels for four, safety is priority 1 in the back country.

editor@seniorlivingmag.com

Proofreader Allyson Mantle Advertising Manager

Barry Risto 250-479-4705 For advertising information, call 250-479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com Ad Sales Staff

RaeLeigh Buchanan 250-479-4705 Ann Lester 250-390-1805 Mathieu Powell 250-589-7801 Barry Risto 250-479-4705 Contact Information – Head Ofﬁce

Senior Living Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Phone 250-479-4705 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 E-mail ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com Subscriptions: $32 (includes GST, postage and handling) for 12 issues. Canadian residents only. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag.com Senior Living Vancouver Island is distributed free throughout Vancouver Island. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living Vancouver Island (12 issues per year) and Senior Living Vancouver & Lower Mainland (12 issues per year). ISSN 1710-3584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)

DEPARTMENTS

6 Boomers on All Fours 9 Facing Mountains

Reumatoid arthritis didn’t slow Brian Twohig down – in fact, it pushed him to new heights.

16 Diabetic and Don’t Know It?

Many Canadians who are diabetic or prediabetic don’t know it. Learn the risk factors, so you can take action early.

20 Doing What He Loves

22 BBB Scam Alert 23 Classiﬁeds 30 Resource Directory

COLUMNS 2 The Family Caregiver by Barbara Small

14 Victoria’s Past Revisited by Norman Archer

Wildlife photographer and artist James Lawler turned his hobby into a post-retirement career he’s passionate about.

24 Sorcery of Youth

Gilbert & Sullivan Society members say rehearsing and performing on stage is not only fun and challenging, it’s a great workout.

27 Ask Goldie

by Goldie Carlow

32 Reﬂections: Then & Now by Gipp Forster

28 Tinkertown Museum

Tucked away east of Albuquerque, New Mexico is the creative vision of Ross Ward. Here, one man’s junk is transformed into another man’s treasure.

Cover Photo: Zan Boyle, President of Vancouver Island’s Duncan ATV BC Chapter, overlooking Maple Bay. Story page 6. Photo: Zan Boyle

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View Suite by appointment • Call 250-286-7274, ext. 1 MARCH 2010

THE FAMILY CAREGIVER

ependent on the health and ability of the person you care for, it is likely that at some point in your role as a family caregiver, you will advocate for that person. You may need to be present at appointments to ask questions, research and access services, resolve problem situations and ensure all care needs are respected and met. The following are some tips to help you be an effective advocate: Communicate with the care recipient: As much as possible keep them involved in decisions that regard their care. Focus on their wishes as you work to advocate on their behalf. Develop an action plan: Set realistic goals and take one step at a time toward reaching them. When tasks seem overwhelming, having a plan laying out each step makes everything seem more manageable. The worst time to figure out what is available and how to access it is during a crisis. Prepare questions in advance: Health care professionals often have limited time to spend with you. Write down your questions in advance so you don’t forget them if you become stressed or

Advocating for a Family Member

upset. Rehearse what you want to say. Decide what information is most important and ask those questions first. Be concise and specific about the information you need. Keep a written record: Write down answers you receive to questions. You may need to refer to this information in the future. Also, keep a log of contacts, phone numbers, names, dates and information acquired all in one place, so you can easily retrieve them when needed. In addition, keep a written record of any pertinent details related to your family member’s health condition and behaviour. Remain calm: Believe that the information you seek and what you have to say is important and that you and your family member have a right to the answers. Anger or emotional shutdown will only get in the way of the communication. Communicate clearly and directly: Prepare in advance for any meetings so you can be clear and concise. Ask for what you want and express your feelings. Avoid rambling and don’t expect the other person to guess what it is you are trying to say.

BY BARBARA SMALL

Be persistent and follow up: Finding the answers you need may take time, effort and several telephone calls or emails. Don’t give up. Persistence produces results. Keep in mind that even though you are focused only on your family member, the healthcare professionals have many patients. Find the right person: Determine who the key contact is so you don’t waste time struggling to find answers where they are not available. Find an appropriate time: Good timing is essential and can make the difference between managing the problem and making it worse. Wait until you are less anxious, angry or upset before trying to deal with a situation. Arrange to meet and talk at a time when both parties can focus on problem solving. SL Next month: Stress Management Strategies for Family Caregivers Barbara Small is Program Development Coordinator for Family Caregivers’ Network Society.

The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of ElderSafe Support Services A division of Saint Elizabeth Health Care

The ElderSafe Advantage • Free in home assessment • Non Profit health care agency • Personalized service customized to each unique client

Ask about our new Caregiver Support Program www.eldersafe.com

Victoria: 250-385-0444

24 hour • Affordable • Bonded • Safe and Reliable Home Care 2

SENIOR LIVING

Presented by:

10 am - 4 pm | Pearkes Recreation Centre 3100 Tillicum Rd., Victoria BC

A Full Day of Activity and Entertainment Exciting, Interactive Demonstrations and Displays. Meet active, enthusiastic participants over the age of 50. �� Discover new hobbies or join a new club �� Enjoy a variety of entertainment all day long �� Over 65 exhibits by groups and individuals over the age of 50 �� Performance Stage 10am - 4pm dancers, musicians, singers, storytellers, etc. �� Over 55 exhibits by senior-focused businesses and organizations �� On-site antique appraisals (small items or photos only, please) �� On-site Café Provided by Chef on the Run �� Free Parking

Admission by Donation Master of Ceremony

Antique Appraisals Free Evaluation by Senior Living Columnist Michael Rice. Small items or photos only please.

Meet Senior Living Columnist Pat Nichol, who once again will be playing host to the numerous performers you will see throughout the day.

Win a 7 Night Alaska Cruise for 2 Onboard the Celebrity Mercury Courtesy of:

in partnership with:

MARCH 2010

March 2010 Victoria, BC

March is Embrace Aging Month! The Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation invites you to discover the many resources, activities and educational opportunities available to help embrace the journey of aging.

In Celebration of Embrace Aging Month: Senior Living Magazine presents: 50+ Active Living Celebration March 5th - Pearkes Recreation Centre Alzheimer Society of BC presents: “Forgetful Not Forgotten” One family’s struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Documentary screening with Filmmaker Christopher Wynn March 6th - Ross Place Yakimovich Centre & Community Workshops: Be Well; Be Secure; Be Connected; Be Enriched - Free workshops for seniors & their families. March - Various Times

For details contact the Eldercare Foundation.

1454 Hillside Ave.,Victoria, BC V8T 2B7 250-370-5664 ��www.gvef.org Thanks to Lead Sponsor

SENIOR LIVING

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Celebrate Embrace Aging Month! Join us during March as we celebrate a positive approach to growing older and be inspired! Explore all Embrace Aging Month events online at www.gvef.org or call the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation for more details. According to British Columbia Population Projections 2009 to 2036, 23% of British Columbians will be 65+ by 2030! Embracing art, fitness, education, family and wellness are essential parts of a positive, healthy life for young and old alike. Back for a fifth year with dozens of events for seniors and their families, Embrace Aging Month provides a showcase of resources and activities to help navigate the journey of aging. “By taking advantage of lifelong learning, active participation and healthy choices, we can demonstrate that living well into older age can be the rule, not the exception,” said Lori McLeod, Executive Director of the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation. “We want to encourage the entire community to explore the diversity of resources available year-round and celebrate the talents and achievements of our senior community.” Attending Embrace Aging events can introduce new avenues to help you Be Well; Be Secure; Be Connected; and Be Enriched.

Here are just a few of the events planned this month:

The 50+ Active Living Celebration Come join us on March 5th from 10am-4pm at Pearkes Recreation Centre in Victoria for a full day of activity, entertainment, exciting and interactive demonstrations and displays. Get connected to inspiring people, new activities and valuable resources.

Yakimovich Wellness Centre Workshops Informative sessions scheduled at the Wellness Centre in the Hillside Seniors Health Centre during March will help you Be Well; Be Secure; and Be Enriched. All sessions are free but advance registration is required. Some of the highlights from this year’s line-up include: Housing Options for Seniors (March 13), Naturopathic Approaches to Bone Health (March 15), Friendship & Community (March 20), Why the Geography of Aging Matters (March 29), Personal Powers of Attorney (March 29), Estates & Trusts - What Your Family Should Know (March 31), Laughter Heals! (Apr 1).

Special Embrace Aging Month Events This year’s special events are definitely worth exploring.

You’ll find complete details on the Embrace Aging page at www.gvef.org under Yakimovich Wellness Centre & Free Workshops. Mark your calendar, tell your friends and families, and plan to attend. March 6th - “Forgetful Not Forgotten” One family’s struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Join us at Ross Place Retirement Residence from 7pm till 9pm for this powerful documentary screening with Filmmaker Christopher Wynn. Register: 250-370-5664. March 29th-April 4th - Come see the value of Arts in health care during the Oak Bay Lodge Arts Festival. Literature, puppetry, visual arts, reminiscence theatre, music, dance and poetry are all showcased during this week of free drop-in events.

Explore and Connect! Please visit the Embrace Aging page at www.gvef.org for a full listing events, community offerings and resource links, or call the Eldercare Foundation at 250-370-5664. Brochures are also available at Greater Victoria recreation facilities and senior centres.

MARCH 2010

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Boomers on All Fours BY GARY GRIECO

Members of the Duncan ATV club.

oomers who are just beginning to have trouble with hips, knees and backs have embraced the concept of travelling the backcountry mounted on powerful iron steeds sporting four large knobby tires. These rugged, all-terrain vehicles, called quads, are the land-locked equivalent of personal watercraft, or snowmobiles that can tackle mountains. They all exhibit the same traits of raw power, speed and a masculine image. How could I resist my first opportunity to try one out? Since I have always ridden large motorcycles, I felt somewhat superior to anyone who rode around on four large wheels. What a surprise! My introduction to quading was a lesson in “how not to.” You might think a man of 70 would have more sense than to get on one of these machines for the first time and ride straight up Texada Island’s 1,745-foot Mount Pocahontas. Not so. Mountain goats

would tread carefully on the trails we travelled. My friend John, 26 years my junior, has convinced himself I am about 53, and treats me accordingly. When he casually suggested we take his quads and beat the 4x4s to the top, my ego kicked in. “Of course!” Little did I know that, with those two words plus my already damaged spine, I had condemned myself to a world of pain long after the ride. The goal was honourable enough – along with other volunteers, to help erect a small building on the mountain’s peak, in which to house our island’s new Internet wireless system equipment. The learning curve was steep. What I thought was going to be a leisurely ride up winding country roads to the peak, turned out to be the equivalent of “riding the bull” in a country and western bar. John didn’t tell me the smooth road I assumed we would travel was off-limits to ATVs. Driving a quad

requires balance, a good degree of strength, and huge gobs of luck, if you are a beginner like me. The reality of travelling crosscountry up mountain trails was a joy for John, but soon became a veritable nightmare for me as the steep trip unfolded, and my back did the same. Narrow, rocky outcrops, wet gullies, and upward slopes with rolling stones jarred my spine, and rattled my brain. Crossing a swamp on a quadwide bridge, I was waiting for a wheel to drop off into the murky water. All the while, we climbed to higher elevations with gearboxes howling. I asked Zan Boyle, President of Vancouver Island’s Duncan ATV BC Chapter why the sport was catching fire with baby boomers. “It appeals to adventurous spirits who want to get off the beaten track,” he says. “Seventyfive per cent of our 110 members are seniors. There are clubs in Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Courtenay-

Call today to experience the Beltone difference.

1-800-748-3499 10 Vancouver Island locations to serve you.

SENIOR LIVING

Comox and Campbell River.” Is quading safe? It is as safe as you make it. A safety-training course before you attempt quading is a good start. An experienced quader like John had no problem on the same route that caused me stress and physical discomfort. Statistics show that the majority of serious accidents occur with children, who are fearless. They have great reflexes, but may lack judgment or the strength necessary to guide the larger machines. The second category, the one that I fall into, would be the inexperienced adults, who try too much too soon, without proper training. British Columbia is currently the only jurisdiction in North America that does not have legislation for the use of off-road vehicles on public land. “B.C. is known as the Wild West of off-road motorized recreation,” writes Larry Pynn in the Vancouver Sun. But that is about to change. The economies of Vancouver Island, the B.C. Provincial Government, and Canada are given a billion dollar

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PACIFIC

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combined boost annually from the ATV industry. B.C. is seeking to protect their investment by bringing in new safety regulations over the next two years that will also cover quads. ATV.BC was one of a group of All Terrain Vehicle organizations instrumental in helping develop the regulations for the off-road quading community and will help to implement them. “Safety and training are important issues for the organized clubs in B.C.,” says Zan, who is a Canadian Safety Council ATV Instructor. “All new club members are encouraged to take a safety course when joining a club. Safety training and the type of quad you ride are of paramount importance. There are beater and Cadillac quads. Some of the older machines had low horsepower, and a solid rear axle with very limited wheel and suspension travel. You could bottom out easily, and it’s definitely a lot harder on the body. The newer machines have fully automatic transmissions and four-wheel independent suspensions with ride preferences that can be dialed in. They have become pretty plush. I ride my quad all day, and can still walk when I get off,” he says. Quading is not just confined to the recreational aspect. Senior RCMP Officer Ted Boeriu, who heads up the Vancouver Island Integrated Road Safety Unit out of Courtenay, is also a qualified Canadian Safety Council ATV Instructor and trains the Force’s selected quad team members in a six-

BC N IO T I D E

to eight-hour course. “It’s a physically demanding day,” says Boeriu. “The course includes hands-on training and consists of hard riding without speed in a confined area. The operators learn what it feels like having two wheels off the ground when going around a corner. By the end of the morning, you’re going to feel it in your shoulders, arms and legs.” The RCMP’s quads are used mainly for drug interdiction, the Emergency Management Office, and search and rescue in the backwoods. A good example is the search and rescue of two lost teenage Duncan hikers rescued in September 2009 from Heather Mountain. Qualified Club members from the Cowichan Valley ATV Club found them after being called in by the RCMP. Is riding a quad in the outback fun? You betcha! Will they take you places you would normally never get to see? Another resounding yes! Is it a form of exercise? Straddling a heavy machine with loads of power concentrates the mind and uses muscles in your body you weren’t aware you had. But remember, some initial safety training is a good idea. I suggest you do as I say, not do as I did. SL For more information on ATV Clubs, visit www.atvbc.ca For more information on safety training, visit www.bcatvtraining.ca with links to Work Safety BC and the Canada Safety Council.

A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options

To Move or Not to Move?

Published by Senior Living January 2009

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ONLY

9.95

If you are a senior who has been wondering lately whether you should consider moving - either because you find the maintenance of your current home more difficult due to diminishing ability or energy, or you simply want a lifestyle that allows you more freedom and less responsibility - then this is the book that can help you ask the right questions and find the solution that is right for you. A handy reference guide for seniors and their families wrestling with the issues around whether �� relocation is the best option. This 128-page book provides helpful, easy to read information and suggestions to help seniors and their families understand the decisions they need to make.

Books may be also purchased at these Island locations: (Please call ﬁrst to conﬁrm availability)

ORDER FORM - “To Move” Name______________________________Address _______________________________ ___ BOOKS @ $14.60 each (includes $3.95 S&H plus 5% GST) = TOTAL $____________

___ Cheque (payable to Senior Living) ___ CREDIT CARD # _________________________________ Expiry ___________ Name on Card ____________________________________

Mail to: Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 8

SENIOR LIVING

Please allow 2 weeks for delivery

City______________ Prov ___ Postal Code____________Phone ____________________

• Falconer Books, Nanaimo (250-754-6111) • Home Instead, Victoria (250-382-6565) • Medichair, Victoria (250-384-8000) • Medichair, Nanaimo (250-756-9875) • Medichair, Duncan (250-709-9939) • Munro’s Books, Victoria (250-382-2464) • Pharmasave Campbell River ((250-287-3222) • Pharmasave Comox (250-339-4563) • Pharmasave Cook St (250-386-6171) • Pharmasave Duncan (250-748-5252) • Pharmasave Esquimalt (250-388-6451) • Pharmasave Hillside Ave (250-595-8106) • Pharmasave James Bay (250-383-7196) • Pharmasave Ladysmith (250-245-3113) • Pharmasave Quallicum (250-752-3011) • Pharmasave Sidney (250-656-1348) • Pharmasave Tuscany Village (250-477-2225) • Pharmasave View Royal (250-881-8887) • Pharmasave Westhill Centre Nanaimo (250-740-3880) • Pharmasave Mill Bay (250)743-9011 • Tanner’s Books, Sidney (250-656-2345) • Volume One Books, Duncan (250-748-1533) • Crown Publications (250)386-4636

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FACING MOUNTAINS BY ENISE OLDING

SEABOURN SIGNATURE DELIGHTS

» Photo: Enise Olding

ycling for 201 kilometres over river valleys and with 11,000 feet [3353 m] of Pyrenean ups and downs thrown in, albeit through stunningly beautiful scenery in France, would likely leave anyone with aches and pains. But, it was Brian Twohig’s aches and pains that led him to take part in the 2003 Líetape de Tour; a sanctioned bicycle ride on one of the Tour de France mountain segments, which takes place on a rest day in the middle of the famed race. As a young boy, growing up in Cork, Ireland, and then Toronto, Brian was always active, climbing trees, building forts and only returning home when he was hungry. “High school sports were there at the boarding school I went to,” he says, “we played sports seven days a week.” Over the years, his love of skiing led to a job as part of a ski patrol in Ontario, and he became an avid rower. Brian’s physical activities went hand in hand with his studies. He qualified as a teacher and accepted a position at a Montreal high school. His class consisted of 13-17-year-old students who, he says, didn’t fit in with the other students. Nonetheless, he was determined all his students would pass their exams every term – he taught Latin! “I told them they were all going pass,” smiles Brian, and they did. Encouraged by his success with the students in Montreal, Brian went to York University, where he received an honours degree with a specialty in psychology. Later, he read for his master’s degree in Edmonton, and his teaching career took him to Ottawa, where he set up a secondary program in the Royal Ontario Hospital Psychiatric area. Further work saw Brian involved with setting up learning assistance centres for those with learning disabilities, and a unit within high school for autistic adolescents. For a while, Brian and his family moved to Australia, but

eventually returned to Canada and decided to live in Victoria. It’s here that his daughter started rowing and Brian, always a keen rower, coached at a local rowing club. In 1992, he was awarded Coach of the Year for Women’s Crews in Canada.

THE YACHTS OF SEABOURN™

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Life was busy and Brian just couldn’t fit everything in so, while he continued rowing himself, he gave up the coaching. Activity-wise, a big change happened in the late ’90s when Brian’s

youngest daughter asked him to join her in a fundraising bike ride out of Parksville. He’d been thinking about getting a bike and borrowed one for a couple of weeks. “I fell in love with cycling,” he says.

Home Health Care

Better care for a better life

“When I was out riding it struck me, at this point, the world is so simple I am just a cyclist, life couldn’t be simpler.” Being in the moment and being active was like a form of meditation for Brian. “That got me hooked,” he laughs, “and I joined the Sidney Velo Club and have ridden with them ever since.” But, life hit a snag in the late ’90s when Brian was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. At first, he thought the stiffness in his hands was because of his rowing, and thereafter followed many visits to the doctor and many tests. Brian tried to avoid medication, so, after his teaching, he’d go to the gym and work out, “if I didn’t, I would feel it in my joints,” he explains. In the meantime, Brian was working long hours renovating a house. He recalls being “locked up” with arthritis for 10 days to two weeks when, sometimes, he’d be unable to get out of bed and would fall to the floor and heave himself up gradually by using his elbows. A rheumatologist put Brian on one of the standard medications, but over

FEBRUARY 2010 VANCOUVER ISLAND

Senior Living Special Housing Edition

Up-to-date listings of senior housing facilities throughout Vancouver Island, including Independent/Supportive Living, Assisted Living and Complex Care. This guide is an indispensable resource to:

Home care designed especially for you ��

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In the Victoria area, please call

250.370.2253 / 1.877.470.2253 www.bayshore.ca

SENIOR LIVING

• seniors looking for alternative housing • seniors moving to Vancouver Island from other parts of BC or out of province • children of seniors who are assisting their parent to select a housing option • professionals who work with seniors or their families • businesses that provide services to seniors

Listings include addresses and contact information, housing costs, number of units in the housing complex, hospitality services, optional home care services, amenities and security features.

TO ORDER a copy... Please mail a cheque for $5.25 ($5 plus GST), along with your name, phone number and address, to Senior Living, 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1. We will mail you a copy of this resourceful housing guide upon receipt of payment.

Embrace the Journey - A Care Giver’s Story by Valerie Green

The very personal story of her own journey as a care giver to her elderly parents. This is a story which will touch many hearts and be relevant for numerous adult children who, in midlife, are faced with a similar challenge and must make agonizing decisions and choices. It painfully addresses the problems encountered of ‘aging in place’ and the desire for loving couples to stay together in their home until the end of their lives. 96 pages. Softcover. 5.5” x 8.5” Published by Senior Living. Price $14.95 To order, please send cheque for $19.84 ($14.95 plus $3.95 S&H & GST) payable to Senior Living. MAIL TO: Embrace Book Offer c/o Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1

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the next nine years or so, the symptoms became worse, “flare ups” would last longer. “When it was really bad, I couldn’t hold a water bottle or ride my bike,” he recalls. He cut back on his teaching load, eventually got rid of the house he was renovating and tried to push through it. “I’d swim and do anything just to get moving again and, when possible, I’d get on my bike ride again,” he says. At this point, something, he says, just hit him, “some kind of attitude I brought to play in sports – to put my head down and keep on pushing. I didn’t spend a lot of time feeling bad about myself.” The previously very active Brian recalls a poignant time when his daughter moved and had bought a new couch. “We went to pick it up and I couldn’t do anything. Me, who was always been strong and capable, and now I was watching my daughter and her girlfriends moving this great big couch,” he says. But, he kept teaching, part time, and

Does the thought of downsizing or moving

overwhelm you?

LET CHANGING PLACES TAKE CARE OF THE DETAILS!

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CHANGING SPACES... Adjust your home to age in place. CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION!

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would hobble to work just to keep moving. He says he needed to move, since, after lying dormant all night, the arthritis was always worse in the morning. Brian’s retirement in 2003 was partially caused by his rheumatoid arthritis. Sometimes, he would be symptom-free and it was during one of these respites that a fellow cyclist was talking about the Líetape de Tour, where a mountainous stretch of the Tour de France would be open to non-competitors. This piqued Brian’s interest and he registered. “As soon as I got my ticket, my arthritis flared up!” he laughed. But, by the time ride came around, he was able to take part. Attributing his new lease on life in recent years to a new medication, Brian’s activities increased to include near annual travel ventures where he took on some of the most challenging competitive cycling routes in France, Italy and Spain. His latest exploit is Le Mont Ventoux, the highest point in Provence at 1,912 metres, which he undertook last year, along with a few cycling colleagues. “I am built as a rower,” he laughs when looking at a photograph of him and his teammates, “but all that aside, I love the challenge of it and the beauty of it.” Although he claims not to be an expert on the clinical aspects of arthritis, he says he is an authority on how to live and deal with the disease. “People think it is an old people’s disease, but it affects young people too,” Brian says. “[My form of arthritis] is an autoimmune disorder, and when I became aware of that, I was my own advocate and I was persistent

The Arthritis Society: www.arthritis.ca Sidney Velo Cycling Club: www.sidneyvelo.ca Tour de France: www.letour.fr Brian’s travel Blog: www.travelblog. org/Bloggers/RAcyclist/

in knowing what is right for me, and I have been able to find people and work with people who have done the right things for me,” he says. Brian encourages anyone who feels they have any symptoms of arthritis to be their own persistent advocate in seeking diagnosis and treatment. Facing mountains, both health-wise and by way of his cycling choices, is nothing new to Brian and, true to form, he will tackle another peak this year: cycling in Abruzzi, Italy, east of Rome on the Adriatic side and, naturally, in the mountains. In the meantime, he’s taking French at the University of Victoria, volunteering at the Belfry Theatre, leading a Spin Class at the Y, spending time with his three grandchildren, indulging his love of music and reading and is thinking about SL “doing something professional” with his voice.

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15th Annual

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Oceanside Community Partners Team

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �

SENIOR LIVING

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NEWS BRIEF

OPEN INVITATION

nitters and crocheters, join us Thursday afternoons at Michaels’ craft room to create blankets for the Victoria chapter of Blankets for Canada, an organization that began with three knitters and has grown to 50 members who meet regularly to assemble blankets to provide warmth for the needy on Vancouver Island. Blanket squares and donated yarn are also accepted. For more information, call Mary at 250-370-1517.

Independent and Assisted Living at its finest Nanaimo Seniors Village Move in before June 30

and receive $500 towards moving cost

Mary Kozicki of the Victoria chapter of Blankets for Canada.

Get a Close-up Look at Your Jewellery Visit us at the 55+ Active Living Celebration and

you’ll see your jewellery big and bold on our Gem Vision screen. We can also show you what it might look like with different stones and additional modifications. We’ll be happy to give your jewellery a FREE professional cleaning when you stop by and visit our booth (#13).

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T S A P S ’ IA R O T World’s Oldest Licence Plates C I V

uring the reign of the dithering King of France, Louis XV, great-grandson of his predecessor, the flamboyant “Sun King,” Louis XIV, the world’s first automobile huffed, puffed, rattled and heaved its way through the cobbled streets of Paris at the breakneck speed of 2 1/2 mph [4 kph]. It was a strange steampropelled three-wheeled contraption, designed specifically for military use. This was in 1769, about 20 years before the Bastille was stormed, ushering in the French Revolution and the same year that Napoleon was born in Corsica. The following year, its inventor, Nicolas Cugnot, produced a steam-powered tricycle to carry four passengers and so began the age of the automobile. Between 1860 and 1880, American factories produced steam-driven coaches for the mass movement of people and freight by road. Francis Jones Barnard may well be credited for introducing mechanically propelled vehicles to British Columbia offering “steam to Cariboo” through his General Transportation Company that owned four Thomson “Road Steamers.” It was a failure. Then on February 22, 1890, the electric streetcar system launched in Victoria – the third in Canada. This was a highly successful mode of transit for over 50 years. Alongside steam, the electric car had gradually evolved from the 1830s. Invented by Robert Anderson of Scotland, it used rechargeable batteries and by the early 1900s, electric vehicles outsold all others. However, two German engineers, Daimler and Benz independently developed a gasoline-powered vehicle, which led to the creation of the modern automobile. Both engineers used the research of Dutch engineer Christian Hygews who, in 1680, produced the first internal combustion device, using gunpowder! Daimler and Benz substituted gas for gunpowder. The early 20th century was awash with more than 100,000

patents of every conceivable kind, all related to the automobile. For many years, no one thought of licensing vehicles. First, there were not enough of them to worry about and, next, any suggestion that a licence would be necessary to use a public road was an outrage. Again, it was France who led the way and the police demanded “number plates” be used to identify mechanical vehicles on the streets of Paris in 1893. Some history books say that in North America, New York was the first jurisdiction to require that licence plates be affixed to vehicles on April 25, 1901. Others claim West Virginia and Massachusetts should be given that honour, since their legislation was State-wide and required the use of officially produced plates in 1903. British Columbia also started registering vehicles in 1903, but it was up to the owner to make up markers to display the assigned registration number. Leather, metal numbers and wood were often the materials used. The letters “BC” appear on the majority of these owner-provided plates. It was not until 1913 that the province began to issue official licence plates, made of porcelain. This followed legislation introduced in 1912 that required all motor vehicles to be registered annually. What is generally not known, however, is that Victoria is the true pioneer of the North American licence plate. Long before the advent of the mechanically powered vehicle, Victoria had already begun a system of licensing for commercial road users. Local enthusiast John Roberts has been a licence plate collector for over 30 years and is an expert in the field of what he terms, “plateology.” About three years ago, John purchased a 5 x 8-inch [12.7 cm x 20.2 cm] porcelain on steel licence plate, the type of which has mystified collectors for years. These plates were issued by the City of Victoria to be affixed to Hackney carriages, and express wagons as early as January 1, 1884.

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The Tale of Victoria’s Transportation BY NORMAN K. ARCHER

It turns out that city council had received many complaints dential areas and 15 mph [24 kph] outside. from tourists to Victoria (yes, there were tourists back then) There are only six of the original Victoria ‘Licensed Vehibeing overcharged by Hack drivers of horse drawn carriages, cle’ plates known to exist, numbered 1 to 200 and John Robthe forerunners of today’s taxicabs. Councillor Baker, in Oc- erts owns plate Number 6, the lowest number of the set. This tober 1882, suggested to council that Hackney carriage driv- may well be the oldest licence plate in the world. Bragging rights to Victoria as the birthplace of the licence ers in the city be issued with badges to identify them, and that plate have now been forwarded to Guinness Book of World fares be regulated. SL In July 1883, the city council enacted bylaw 100, known Records, and John is awaiting a reply. as the “Hack Regulation Bylaw.” Clause 2 of the bylaw states If readers have photographs or plates that feature these that two badges will be issued on which shall be inscribed early Victoria issues, email John at JohnMRoberts@shaw.ca the number of the licence, and the smaller of the badges to be displayed in a prominent place inside the vehicle. All hack and express wagon drivers were to ensure their vehicles were displaying the two plates (each costing $1 annually) effective January 1, 1884. By March 1886, there were 42 hacks plying the streets, of which 28 had not paid for a Norman Archer is an historical city tour licence, so there was general reluctance to accept responsibil- guide in Victoria and the author of Tales of ity for the fees imposed by city hall. Old Victoria. Contact him at 250-655-1594 In 1902, the first motorized vehicle arrived in Victoria, or nka@canada.com startling many of the horses. It was a $900 Oldsmobile driven by Dr. E.C.  Hart, a local physician. It took a while  for the new “horseless carriage” to  catch on, but by 1905, there were  about 20 cars and 10 motorcycles, so  an automobile club was formed.  The same year, the Hutchinson  Brothers began an “automobile livery     service” – Victoria’s first automobile  taxi company. Among Victoria’s early  car-owners was Robert Butchart who,  on May 14, 1904, paid two dollars for    licence plate Number 11. The speed limit was 10 mph [16 kph] within resi

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Diabetic and Don’t Know It? BY RONALD CALLENDER

“I

f I knew then what I know now, I could have delayed the onset of or avoided diabetes,” says Steve Drinkwater. In spring 2003, Steve was living a sedentary lifestyle in France when he got a wake-up call: a pre-diabetes diagnosis. Since that life-changing mo-

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ment, he began volunteering for the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), hikes mountains, and enjoys kayaking and cycling. Another CDA volunteer Petronella “Nel” Peach observed 27 years ago that she had some diabetic symptoms, headed to the doctor, and said, “I think I have diabetes,” but she was misdiagnosed. Later, Nel was diagnosed as diabetic. Today, she walks at least eight kilometres daily. Additionally, as a member of Team Diabetes, Nel participates in marathons in Canada and the U.S. She carried the 2010 Olympic torch in Salmon Arm on January 27. Dr. Marshall Dahl, an endocrinologist and a clinical associate professor at UBC, will shed light on some of the diabetic risk factors. Family History “Type-2 diabetes is mostly genetic, so it’s common to find a family history of diabetes,” says Dr. Dahl. “Traditionally, about half the people who have diabetes don’t know it.” Nel’s family history of Type-2 diabetes includes her father’s sister, and her daughter (Nel’s cousin) and Nel’s brother. Yet, Nel has Type-1 diabetes. Waist Measurement The waist measurements of both genders are related to being overweight

Steve Drinkwater, then (above) and now.

and indicate who is at the greatest health risk. Men’s waist: 102 cm (40 inches) or greater. Women’s waist: 88 cm (35 inches) or greater.

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“When I was diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes, my trousers size was 42; today it is 38,” says Steve. Waist size is also connected to body mass index. Body Mass Index (BMI) BMI uses a person’s weight and height to determine their degree of body fat. BMI applies equally to both genders and can be a Type-2 diabetes risk factor. In fact, a BMI of 25 or greater is a pre-diabetic risk factor for some people. “Not all obese people develop diabetes; you must have the diabetes gene,” says Dr. Dahl. “Diabetes isn’t only about lifestyle, it really is a genetic thing.” When Steve was diagnosed with diabetes, his BMI was 36; today it’s 30.” The data also show that people with below normal or normal BMI have also been diagnosed with diabetes, most notably Asians. BMI = (weight in kilograms) divided by (height in metres x height in metres) For adults older than 20 years, the World Health Organization categorizes BMI as follows: Normal: 18.5 - 24.9 Overweight/Pre-obese: 25.0 - 29.9 Obese: 30.0 - 39.9 Morbidly obese: At least 40

Blood Pressure “Blood pressure does not trigger diabetes. It just happens to the same person,” says Dr. Dahl. “People who get diabetes often have the genes for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and abdominal weight as well. If I have high

blood pressure and high cholesterol, I should want to know my blood sugar reading because they often go together.” Nel says that for the past eight years, her blood pressure was maintained by the lowest dosage of medication, but recently her blood pressure was high.”

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Fruity Smelling Breath Fruity breath is an indicator of ketoacidosis – acid in the urine, and diabetes. See a doctor if breath fragrance is a concern or if someone comments adversely about it. Twentyseven years ago, Nel was diagnosed with ketones, which result when the body burns its own fat and is a common diabetic complication. If left untreated, it can lead to ketoacidosis, which can result in coma or even death.

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Blurred Vision Nel works hard to maintain good blood glucose levels because high levels once blurred her vision, which cleared up when the levels returned to normal. Vision blurs when high glucose levels cause the lens of the eye to swell. See an ophthalmologist at the first sign of blurred vision, because glaucoma, cataracts, and retinopathy are the three leading eye problems that afflict diabetics. Diabetes is the main reason for blindness in people aged 20 to 74 years old. Yeast Infections Yeast infections are related to Candida (fungal) infections. For both genders, frequent bouts of these infections can lead to a diabetes diagnosis. “When I was diagnosed with Type1 diabetes, I had a yeast infection,” says Nel. Some genital symptoms for yeast infections are common to both genders: itching, burning, irritation and painful urination. Because

Endocrinologist and Clinical Associate Professor at UBC Dr. Marshall Dahl.

these infections could be related to other diseases, a medical examination is in order to find out the cause. Eating Frequency A voracious appetite is another risk factor. This is particularly true if

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there’s been no increase in physical activity. Nel thought her “diet was under control,” but her ravenous appetite caused her to eat all the chocolates she received at Christmas in short order.

Erectile Dysfunction This risk factor can affect men in varying degrees. See a family doctor or urologist at the first sign of erectile dysfunction.

Increase Thirst and Frequent Urination An insatiable thirst for sodas and other fluids alone or combined with frequent urination are pre-diabetic or diabetic risk factors. “When I was in France, I was very thirsty and drank lots of Evian water,” says Steve. “It resulted in frequent urination, and I felt tired a lot, so much so that I thought I was just getting older. Later, during a routine examination, I was diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes.” Dr. Dahl says, “Diabetics might start urinating frequently when the body tries to reduce high-blood-sugar level. This effort removes lots of water from the body through urination. As a result, they get very thirsty and that causes them to drink and urinate frequently.”

Life-Long Irregular Menstruation Dr. Dahl says, “There is a female hormonal condition characterized by lifelong irregular periods called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). It has a very strong association with Type-2 diabetes.” Besides symptoms, diabetes has many complications. Poorly managed diabetes can cause blindness, kidney disease, amputation (due to poor circulation), heart disease and stroke. Symptoms can drastically affect lifestyle or shorten lives. People who have a family history of diabetes, or other risk factors, should be screened for diabetes to find out their diabetic profile. Knowledge is the best defence against this debilitating and chronic disease. SL

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DOING WHAT HE LOVES worked as a freelance photographer for local newspapers and magazines. He eventually taught himself to paint the wildlife he photographed. Smiling, he props up his painting of a heron, the beautifully executed brush strokes showing the feathers gently ruffled by the breeze. “This is Henry, the resident heron at Beacon Hill Park,” he says. “I set up my tripod and took some photographs, so I always say, ‘thank you’ for the camera. It captures a moment an artist can later translate into a picture.” Even if only for a moment, James

Photo: Judee Fong

“T

here’s no such thing as retirement,” says professional wildlife photographer, artist and musician James Lawler. “I’m busier now than when I was working!” Originally from Ontario, James was working for the Ontario Lottery Corporation when a friend from Victoria sent him a copy of the Times Colonist. “The Ontario snow was up to here, the temperature dropped down to there and we decided enough was enough,” says James. “We came out for a ‘looksee’ six years ago and have been here ever since.” While living in Ontario, James and his wife owned a cottage surrounded by birds and wildlife – a photographic opportunity for someone with patience and a camera. At that time, James

BY JUDEE FONG

believes a skillfully painted picture can capture the imagination and grab attention. When a person comes back and wants the painting for himself, then the artist has done his job well. “I always try to make my next painting better than the last one. I tell people my next painting is my best and that keeps me on my toes!” Moving beyond art as a hobby, James has had a few tentative opportunities fall through as he navigates the perilous business of a professional artist. “I had an opportunity to work with Roger Soane, the General Manager of the Fairmont Empress, before he moved to Whistler,” says James. “We were going to do a project involving a ‘makeover’ of the Bengal Room. I wanted to remove the tiger skin off the wall and hang a blow-up of one of my tiger paintings. There would be coasters made of

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the tiger’s head and people could take these home as a souvenir. Roger was really enthused over this project, but then he got transferred and everything came to a standstill.” Playing his clarinet began as a form of therapy. “I had a stroke and was losing the ability to use my hands,” says James. “I couldn’t let this happen. Years ago, I played a bit of clarinet, so I made myself pick it up and play again. It made me concentrate on using my fingers and mind to play the music. The clarinet gave me back control of my hands.” James plays music “by ear.” He has approximately 500-600 tunes in his head. “If I hear a tune or melody for the first time, I can play it back within seconds,” he says. Reflecting on his self-imposed rehabilitation, James says, “Music helped in my stroke recovery just like painting was another form of therapy. Both were challenging, at the time.” Rediscovering the delights of playing music, James got together with a few other retirees to form a four-piece combo called Moon Glow. They played the melodies of the ’40s and ’50s for seniors who remember the music of that era. Moon Glow also played for seniors in care homes and hospitals. “In many of the places we played, the seniors were bedridden but we would see their feet tapping or their hands moving. When you looked at them, they would wink at you – it made our playing the music more memorable.” “At present, the band is dependent upon everyone’s health,” says James. “We play when we can, but it’s no longer a regular thing, which is too bad.” James does play his clarinet for the Oak Bay Monterey SingAlong Group, which visits various senior homes once a month. “It’s great!” he raves. “Music is something you have to keep playing and the people who hear us enjoy it!” With Moon Glow, James says, “We’ve all played together for awhile and have developed a chemistry where a nod at the other guys tells them to repeat the chorus or segue into the next piece. The pianist at the Monterey Centre played this piece brilliantly. At the end of the song, without any communication between us, she carried on with a tag where she repeated the last phrase three times. I knew she was going to do this and she knew I would follow her. I was totally blown away because it seemed so natural. That’s the intangible, the chemistry between musicians.” Living his life to the fullest, James is a “people person.” His art and music gives him public exposure. “I like meeting people, building a reputation, getting the recognition,” he says. “It’s a lot of fun when people approach me because they recognize a bird or a place from my paintings and want to chat about it. I will never get rich, but I’ve enjoyed doing this!” To anyone approaching retirement or newly retired, James advises, “You’ve spent years working for someone else. Retirement is your chance to do something you’ve always wanted to do like learning something new or trying something different. Whatever it is, don’t talk yourself out of it – just go ahead and do it!” SL See samples of James Lawler’s art at www.seniorlivingmag. com/Lawler. James can be reached at 250-598-1532 or by email at jamesart1924@yahoo.ca

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MARCH 2010

SCAM ALERT BY ROSALIND SCOTT

Hiring a Reputable Tax Preparer

he deadline for filing your income tax return is fast approaching. By doing a little homework now, before you hire a tax preparer, you can save yourself the hassle of being ripped off or having to deal with an erroneous income tax return. It is well worth the time to look for a qualified, dependable and trustworthy tax preparer to ensure your private financial information stays private and the information included with your tax return is accurate. You are responsible for the contents of your return, regardless of who prepared it. BBB suggests the following tips for choosing a reputable tax preparer and avoiding those who may be problematic:

edge of current tax law, and whether they are members of a professional organization with continuing education requirements and a code of ethics.

Check on qualifications. Ask about their training, experience and knowl-

BBB advises consumers to steer clear of tax preparers who sound too good to be true. Beware if they:

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Learn about their service terms in advance. Find out whether they guarantee the accuracy of their work and amend the return if there’s a mistake. Ask for references. Get referrals from satisfied clients. Check with BBB (vi.bbb.org) to determine if the tax preparer has a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. Request a quote. Ask for an estimate of the preparation fee before authorizing the work.

Boast they can obtain larger refunds than their competitors. Pressure you to sign up for immediate payment of your refund. This involves a loan that typically carries a high interest rate. Base their fee on a percentage of the refund amount, rather than the complexity of the tax return; or Don’t ask to review your records

and receipts, or discuss whether you qualify for expenses and deductions. Once your income tax return is prepared, make certain the preparer has signed it and get a copy and payment receipt for your records. Also, review the return before signing it and ask for clarification of any entry you don’t understand. A tax preparer is acting illegally if they encourage you to claim inflated personal or business expenses, false deductions or excessive exemptions; manipulate your income level to obtain false tax credits; ask you to sign a blank or incomplete form or guarantee you will not be audited. To learn how to file online and other information about Canadian tax law, go to the Canada revenue Agency website: cra.gc.ca March is Fraud Prevention Month. Get educated. Stay Informed. For tips on protecting yourself from becoming a victim of fraud, visit vi.bbb.org SL

If you believe you have been the target of a scam, call the Better Business Bureau Vancouver Island at 250-386-6348 in Greater Victoria or at 1-877-826-4222 elsewhere on the Island, so others can beneﬁt from your experience. E-mail info@vi.bbb.org

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS / VIRTUAL ASSISTANT Correspondence; general bookkeeping; faxes; document editing/finishing; office organizing. Business services for small businesses and individuals. 100% Confidential. Checkerhouse Works Inc. e:sparebrain1@gmail.com 250-886-3975. SAANICH VOLUNTEER SERVICES seeks volunteer visitors to brighten up a lonely Saanich resident’s week. Ladies and gents welcome. Call 250-595-8008. HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE - Would you like a little assistance? Meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, appointments, or respite. We also hire seniors. Call 250-382-6565. COLLECTOR SEEKING vintage/collectable cameras, binoculars and microscopes. Nikon, Leica, Contax, Rolleiflex, Zeiss, Canon, etc. Mike 250-383-6456 or e-mail: msymons6456@telus.net USING HYPNOSIS YOU CAN MANAGE: stress, pain relief, habit control. Tap into motivation and creativity. Nohands-on deep relaxation. Safe, comfortable, confidential. Judith Grey, Registered Clinical Counselling Hypnotherapist. 250-388-3925. UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR SENIOR LIVING. Own your own lovely 1-2 bedroom condo in Cook Street Village and have the services of assisted living. Price from $110,000. For more information call Mette, Remax Camosun at 250-418-0584.

WRITTEN A BOOK? Aldridge Street Editing can get your manuscript print-ready. Transcription - Editing - Cover Design - Book Layout. www.aldridgestreet.com Call 250-595-2376. PLAY-FOR-PLEASURE piano lessons, Cordova Bay. Beginners package available. It’s never too late! Call 250-658-0246 COMPUTER BASICS IN YOUR HOME. Patient senior computer lady to show you e-mail, surﬁng. Hourly fee. Connect with your world. 250-516-5980. A LOT OF JUNK WON’T FIT IN YOUR TRUNK. You’re in luck, I own a truck. Seniors discount. City Haul John 250-891-2489. MUSIC LESSONS at the Peninsula Academy of Music Arts, 1662 Mills Road, North Saanich 778-426-1800. All instruments. www.PeninsulaAcademy.ca RUTH M.P HAIRSTYLING for Seniors in Greater Victoria. In the convenience of your own home! Certiﬁed Hairdresser. Call - 250-893-7082. FOOT CARE NURSE with years of experience offering in-home visits. “Nursing Your Feet to Better Health”. 250-592-4788. WANTED ROOM AND BOARD. Quiet, clean, 40’s male. Will trade chores for lower rent. Or house sitting. Call John 250-891-2489.

ARE YOU A HOMEOWNER 60 OR OLDER who does not want to move? Unlock the value in your home and enjoy life on your terms. Reverse mortgages for seniors. Get up to 40% of the value in your home in tax-free cash with no payments required for as long as you live in your home. For more information, please contact Nick Chepil of DLC Sidney Mortgage Experts at 250-858-4299 or visit www.nc-mortgages.ca PAINTING THE ISLAND. Interior, exterior, residential, commercial. Many references. Seniors Discounts. Prompt, professional. Free estimates. Gordon - Coastal Building Services 1-250-951-7675. PERSONALS COMPATIBLE INTRODUCTIONS LTD. Personalized dating and matchmaking service. Call us today for our 40th anniversary membership promotion. Find a relationship of a lifetime. Call Ann Lester 250-616-2906. www.compatibleintroductions.bc.ca

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$30 for 20 words or less. $1.25 per extra word. BW only. Boxed Ad - Small (2.2 x 1.2) $110. Boxed Ad - Large (2.2 x 2.4) $210. Add BW Logo - $25. Red spot color 10% extra. Plus 5% GST. All Classiﬁed ads must be paid at time of booking. Cheque/Credit Card accepted. Ph. (250)479-4705 or toll-free 1-877-479-4705. Deadline: 15th of the month. Make cheque payable to: Senior Living, 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave.,Victoria BC V8T 2C1

LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO ACT FOR YOU IN YOUR SENIOR YEARS? F. Kenneth Walton, Q.C. Barrister & Solicitor Victoria BC (250)595-5368 Fax. (250)595-5378 • 35 years a lawyer • Compassion & integrity • Preparation of wills, representation agreements, power of attorney and health care agreements • Probate and estate processing including sale of estate goods • Will look after provision for your present healthcare needs or property management • Willing to accept appointment as executor of your will or as an attorney under a power of attorney or representation agreement • Will attend at your home • Will do estate court cases

Call me for a free consultation (250)595-5368

OCTOBER 2009 39 MARCH 2010

Sorcery of Youth BY ALIXE WALLIS

Photo: De Rogers

Sullivan’s first full-length collaboration. It’s the tale of a sleepy little village where life is predictable until John Wellington Wells, a.k.a. the Sorcerer, douses them with a love potion. Adrian Sly was cast in this pivotal role. “This will be my third involvement, having sung it 37 years ago while living in Montreal and 27 years ago in Halifax and now finally I’ll play the Sorcerer himself! Singing is a wonderful work-out,” says Adrian, “and, as I get older, I find [my] voice becoming even stronger.” Not only does he love the challenge of singing, but the process of co-ordinating stage movements with the rhythm of the music. “Keeping in character while singing

Derek and Katharine Ellis

or these four Gilbert & Sullivan members, one of the advantages of joining the Society is that it keeps them young. Adrian Sly, Derek Ellis, George Morfitt and Rick Underwood are all committed to the demanding schedule of putting on The Sorcerer, Gilbert &

and dancing certainly keeps the mind totally focused – and while it’s great fun, it’s definitely therapeutic as well.” As for turning professional, Adrian admits it’s a path he chose not to follow. “Then I wouldn’t have had anything to do as a hobby!” If keeping mentally fit is a goal, then join the G & S Society – according to Derek Ellis who plays the part of the Village Bobby in the production. With a lifelong fondness for singing, starting as a choirboy, it wasn’t until five years ago, at the age of 75, that Derek auditioned for a G & S operetta. He thought a Gilbert and Sullivan melody would be most appropriate, but then failed the audition. Undaunted, he requested another try and, with a strong number from My Fair Lady, nailed the performance. “Then,” he says, “I took singing lessons and was shown the cor-

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SENIOR LIVING

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rect way of shaping my mouth and how to achieve maximum volume with proper breath control. One of the great sideeffects of using all these techniques is that your overall stamina improves, as well as voice quality.” “Furthermore,” laughs Derek, “we’re all encouraged to flirt – but only in the context of the opera where a magic potion makes the villagers fall in love with the first person they see.” And indeed, what could be more invigorating than that! George Morfitt, who served as B.C.’s Auditor General for two terms, claims that different parts of the brain come into play when performing. After a full and rewarding career both in business and government, he took up the fivestring left-handed banjo, which he’d always wanted to play. Quite a stretch from the world of facts and figures – but his brain loved it! The role of the Notary was the one that most interested George, and he plays the character of an aging official lucky enough to draw the attention of a beautiful young charmer after both sip the magic potion. “That’s the fun of this group,” he adds. “It maintains one’s youthful spirit while making lasting friendships with people young or old who share the same interests.” And last, but not least, George still feels energized after three hours of rehearsals three days a week. In fact, everyone contributes hundreds of hours to the building and painting of sets, making costumes, doing make-up and co-ordinating schedules, all with the express desire of putting

on the best show possible. Conductor Rick Underwood co-ordinates the music, working alongside Stage Director Wendy Merk and Choreographer Scott Vannan. This production also brings the added dimension of the Canadian Pacific Ballet. “We only have one rehearsal with the entire cast before the production – and there’s no turning back after the dress rehearsal! It’s quite a feat of co-ordination,” admits Rick. “And I’m happy to say that so far nothing has ever gone wrong!” After teaching music for 33 years, Rick became even more involved in Victoria’s music scene. “What does retirement mean?” he asks. “Whatever it is – I love it! I can do what I want whenever I want. I can turn my attention to things I love and, needless to say, Gilbert & Sullivan is a highlight!” So, make a date to find out what transpires in this engagingly convoluted tale set 140 years ago, when a small village encounters sorcery, spells and general SL mayhem. The Sorcerer with special guest the Canadian Pacific Ballet March 13 & 20, 8 p.m. and March 14 & 24, 2 p.m. at Charlie White Theatre, Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Tickets Box Office 250-656-0275 March 27, 8 p.m. and March 28, 2 p.m. at McPherson Theatre,Victoria Tickets Box Office 250-386- 6121 For more info, visit www.gilbertandsullivanvictoria.ca

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The 60-Voice VICTORIA BROADWAY CHORUS presents an evening of Broadway and Hollywood Favourites led by pianist Bob LeBlanc

March 19, 7:30pm March 20, 2:00pm Central Baptist Auditorium, Victoria Tickets $25, available at Long & McQuade, Munro’s Books, Ivy’s Book Shop, or at the door. Open seating.

March 27, 7:30pm March 28, 2:00pm Charlie White Theatre, Sidney Tickets $25, available at the box office or by phone 250-656-0275. All seats reserved. www.victoriabroadwaychorus.com

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MARCH 2010

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SENIOR LIVING

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Photo: Jason van der Valk

ASK Goldie

Do you qualify for the Disability Tax Credit?

BY GOLDIE CARLOW, M.ED

Dear Goldie: I just read your answer to K.H. in the Oct/09 issue of Senior Living. About being independent, I cannot see what is so great about cooking, dishwashing, cleaning, shopping and maintaining a house. I live in Assisted Living. We are independent to come and go, invite friends overnight as well as for meals. (Right now we have a special deal – three months free rent!). We have first-class meals, weekly cleaning and change of linen, free use of laundry room and service, and a full-size in-suite fridge. There are entertainment, bus outings, parties and fun. We have volunteer drivers and taxis. We can also be alone in our suites, if we choose. If health conditions change, home care is available. Those who stubbornly stay by themselves into their 80s, thinking they can keep old age at bay, are missing out. Better to plan and move, while you are still in good health, and make new friends. If you stay on your own for too long and your health declines, you could suddenly end up in 24-hour care, a very big change. Here, you are all in your own suites, with your own stuff and home care, as long as possible. –W.P. Dear W.P: Thank you for a very informative letter about your new residence. It is unusual to hear a senior respond so positively to a change of living conditions. You seem to have made the perfect choice for you. Age and health are two important factors in making a satisfactory change of residence. It is easier to accept new routines and relationships when we are mentally and physically active. This should be the determining reason rather than number of years attained. I agree, timing is important in making changes, so to lessen the impact, begin to plan early while you have choices. W.P., your letter is an encouragement to anyone contemSL plating a move into Assisted Living. SENIOR PEER COUNSELLING CENTRES Victoria 250-382-4331 Duncan 250-748-2133 Nanaimo 250-754-3331 Sidney 250-656-5537 Courtenay/Comox 250-334-9917 Salt Spring Island 250-537-4607 Port Hardy 250-949-5110

Goldie Carlow is a retired registered nurse, clinical counsellor and senior peer counselling trainer.

Many people think they do not qualify, or are intimidated by the process. Some have tried and were denied by CRA due to technical errors. With a 95% success rate we can help! Our average tax reimbursements are over $5,000 and can be retroactive up to 10 years. Unless we are successful you pay nothing. We concentrate on ensuring you get what the law entitles you to. Visit us online to complete our evaluation form or for more information on the extensive list of conditions that may qualify for the disability tax credit. Call today for your free eligibility assessment!

Linda Chornobay Disability Refund Specialist (250) 514.2699 or linda@enabledfinancial.ca 550-2950 Douglas St.

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Tinkertown Museum STORY AND PHOTOS BY MAGGIE KIELPINSKI

n my bucket list since a first enchanted glimpse on the Antiques Roadshow in 2003, Tinkertown Museum is tucked away in a canyon off the Sandia Crest Highway on the kindly east side of the Sandia Mountains. I say kindly because the east side is blanketed with conifer forests where residents of nearby Albuquerque can find recreational hiking and biking trails along with winter skiing; on the west side, massive granite walls face the desert pro-

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viding daunting hang gliding and rock climbing challenges for even the most accomplished. The Sandia Peak Tram does provide an easier ascent of the west face together with vast panoramas across the Rio Grande Rift Valley and beyond. Entering Tinkertown is like turning back time to a wildly wacky nether world of Americana, the breathtaking result of one man’s passion; a joyful celebration of life – unstructured and in miniature; Monty Python in clay-mation – wonky,

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whimsical and silly, and all with a subtle undercurrent of social commentary. Our magical history tour starts outside at the bottle wall; waves of green, amber and opaque white bottles, cemented together and years in the making, topped by a hodgepodge of metal – old carriage wheels, weathervanes, horseshoes and buckets – an overwrought Dali masterpiece. Found objects are everywhere; a small red wagon is buried in part of the wall, an iron bench of old train tracks is topped with three turquoise tractor seats and colourful hand-painted signs offer directions and homespun advice. From humble beginnings in a five-room vacation cottage, the museum has morphed into a labyrinthine 24 rooms. Armed with a fist full of quarters to feed the antique arcade machines, we are serenaded by the sweet vocals of ‘Rusty Wyer and his Turquoise Trail Riders’ through a maze of nar-

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Comox Valley Lifeline Society 1-866-205-6160 North Island, Cowichan Valley and Chemainus/Crofton

HERITAGE MANOR - DUNCAN (250)748-3488

Resources to maintain an independent lifestyle Compression stockings, diabetic socks, fashionable canes, Dr. Comfort diabetic/orthopaedic shoes, an excellent book selection, & full prescription services.

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row corridors cobbled together with bottles, old wormy wood and rusty metal sheets. Every niche and corner is crammed with oddities; whale jawbones, totem poles, carved wooden Indians, a pair of beaded leather gloves and kachina dolls. Painstakingly carved and animated, the western town, country store and three-ring circus are each a masterpiece of absurdity and wit. Crafty details enliven each scene; a drunken stage driver, the temperance league, Chinatown, a rattlesnake coiled in the middle of a dusty western street, Mary Poppins flying across the sky, a dissolute fiddler on the roof of the Monarch Hotel. Old-fashioned arcade machines include a fortune teller and Egyptian snake charmer, which can still be played for a quarter. There are unique collections; Buffalo Bill posters, circus memorabilia – including a suit of Big Louie’s clothes from Ringling Bros. (at 8’4”, then the largest man on earth) – posters, clowns, dolls, carousel horses and an unlikely collection of 132 wedding cake toppers. All this is the result of 40 years of collecting and whittling. Imagination piqued early in Ross Ward in the tiny prairie town of Aberdeen, South Dakota. By age 11, he’d already created his first western town out of cardboard boxes and orange crates. He saved every nickel to buy animals, tin cowboys and Indians at the local Woolworth’s and Newberry’s. Ross’ inspiration was the circus and the itinerant travelling sideshows of the day – some say he was a “carnie”

at heart. He painted signs and sideshow backdrops, murals and carousel horses for a living and, in his spare time, he whittled and modelled in clay, collecting miniatures, antiques – indeed, just about anything – as he rambled throughout the west. Together with his wife, Carla, they began work on the museum in 1980 and opened their doors in 1983. Sadly, Ross died in 2002 at the age of 62 but the Tinkertown tradition lives on, lovingly supervised by the Ward family.

We return to the parking lot and pause by the wooden lean-to covering a gaily-painted Jeep Cherokee. The riddle, posed to us by the young cashier in the gift shop, of how to turn a Jeep into a Lincoln, is solved: it’s covSL ered in pennies. Admission is a bargain at $3, seniors $2.50 and children $1. Open from March 15 to October 31, daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit www.tinkertown.com

Are you a not-for-profit organization interested in engaging seniors in your community? New Horizons for Seniors Program Call for Proposals The Government of Canada is accepting applications for Community Participation and Leadership funding under the New Horizons for Seniors Program. The Program funds community-based projects that encourage seniors to play an important role in their community by helping those in need, providing leadership, and sharing their knowledge and skills with others.

The deadline for applications is April 16, 2010. 1-800-277-9914 TTY 1-800-255-4786 www.hrsdc.gc.ca/seniors

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March 9 – Gin-Honey-Flowers – Gin tour & tasting, Honey tour & tasting & Jar of Blueberry Honey, Eurosa Farm Tour and a little surprise - $80 + GST March 18 – Mayne Island – Gulf Island ocean cruise, Japanese Garden, 1896 Jail – Lockup, 1880 Lighthouse, 1892 historical Springwater Lodge & lunch & snacks - $120 + GST April 6 – Nanaimo by Train – Train ride, snacks, Tea & lunch, ferry ride & transportation to & from train from designated departure locations - $99 + GST April 17 – Chemainus – Sunshine Boys – Show & buffet lunch - $110 + GST Call our ofﬁce for Winter/Spring brochure 250-477-3322 • Limited seats, book now! • Escorted Tours MARCH 2010

Reﬂections THEN & NOW

BY GIPP FORSTER

hen I was in my mid-forties, I would go to the gym to work out two and sometimes three days a week. I was trying to rearrange some of the fat that had begun to creep up on me and see if I could make it look like muscle. I was surrounded by young guys that would make Charles Atlas look like Mortimer Snerd. I tried to breathe like they did – with a kind of hiss – as they lifted weights of 100 to 200 pounds or better. But no matter how I tried, I still sounded like a beached whale. I was only lifting 35-pound weights, but they felt like a Greyhound bus. Like an elephant in the midst of a herd of gazelles, I noticed the physiques that surrounded me. The gym had floor-to-ceiling mirrors that these guys worked out in front of – admiring their progress – telling each other how great it was and how much they enjoyed “working out.” I was the only guy in the gym who worked out with his back to the mirror and wondered if all these guys had all the strings on their banjos. I longingly stared at the door that led to the street – and freedom. How could anyone “enjoy” this torture? But I didn’t dare ask

them. I wasn’t that brave! These guys looked at excess fat like it was leprosy on Shirley Temple. So, I just grunted and groaned along with them hoping, sooner or later, I would once again be able to see my feet. I knew they were there. I just needed to see them with my eyes. I remember one guy with bulging biceps and a flat stomach, lifting weights that King Kong would hesitate to contemplate, glaring at me while I smiled weakly with a five-pound weight in each of my hands. I felt very vulnerable. But, I kept going. I don’t know why really. I didn’t have dreams of kicking sand in someone’s face or being a standin for Arnold Schwarzenegger. I practised my grunts at home so I would at least sound the part when I went in for my weekly torture, swimming and nearly drowning in a sea of perspiration. The “fun” part I enjoyed, like carrying my Adidas bag and telling people I was off to the gym to work out. It was the agony I couldn’t stand. The day I liked best, though, was Sunday. The gym was closed that day! Now, these 20-odd years later, whenever I pass a gym, my body protests

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Photo: Krystle Wiseman

WORKING OUT

violently and even, at times, shakes. But it needn’t worry. I won’t venture back! I still can’t see my feet, but I no longer gasp, groan and grunt (unless, of course, I’m sleeping) and no longer feel I need to compete. I never really enjoyed hanging around gyms anyway. I can feel macho in so many other ways. I can still open a door for a woman or walk on the curb side of the sidewalk when strolling with a lady down the street. I still know how to wink and, now and then, chew gum. I can still belch loudly and unscrew the lid on a pickle jar. I may not look like Charles or Arnold, but I don’t have to go to the beach or run for governor of California. I guess the secret is that I’m no longer trying to impress anyone. I don’t know why I ever thought I had to in the first place. I may not try to lift heavy weights anymore and I may puff from just watching television, but I can still think heavy thoughts and sometimes stay up until midnight! (Well, maybe not midnight, but at least until 10.) Many young people are not only devoted to bodybuilding, but also body tattooing and body piercing, as well. There seems to be something for every generation. Mine was pegged pants and Brylcreem. At least I could wash the Brylcreem out! Oh well! Who knows what tomorrow will bring. The gyms and spas will always be here, I suppose. A home for grunts, groans, and sighs. I haven’t given up totally, though. Every morning when I wake up, I do my 100 push-ups: first the right eyelid, then the SL left. It keeps me young!

an exceptional cup of tea, for two.

Life is always interesting at Carlton House of Oak Bay. As Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest seniorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence, we know how to enjoy life and as such, we offer you a wonderful range of programmed activities and special events to enjoy at your leisure, such as High Teas, Tai Chi classes, and musical performances. Learn more about an exceptional life at Carlton House. All-inclusive suites are available from $2495 a month. Call Seona Stephen today at 250-595-1914 | www.carltonhouse.caa

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