Mar 2007 Senior Living Magazine Vancouver Edition

VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND

MARCH/APRIL 2007

MARY GAZETAS Artist, author, adventurer

Jay Hamburger The Anvil Salute A tradition of noise, colour and commitment COVER_VANCOUVER_MARAPR07.indd 11

The drama of teaching in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

2/25/2007 2:31:40 PM

MARCH/APRIL 2007

MAGAZINE

Senior Living (Vancouver & Lower Mainland) is published bi-monthly by Stratis Publishing.

FEATURES

Other publications by Stratis Publishing:

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• Senior Living (Vancouver Island) • Senior Lifestyle: A Housing Guide for Vancouver Island

With tax season imminent, it’s time to start preparing to file

Publisher

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Barbara Risto

Around One More Point

Artist, author, paddler Mary Gazetas shares stories of adventure in B.C.’s wild

Editor

Bobbie Jo Sheriff

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Advertising Manager Contact Information – Head Office

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Senior Living Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1

10 The Drama of Teaching & Directing

E-mail office@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com Subscriptions: $32 (includes GST, postage

and handling) for 6 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 indepdendent publication and its articles imply no endoresement 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 office@seniorlivingmag.com Senior Living Vancouver & Lower Mainland is distributed free in Vancouver, North & West Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Delta, Twawwassen, White Rock, Surrey, Cloverdale and Ladner. ISSN 1911-6373 (Print) ISSN 1991-6381 (On-line)

Cover Photo: Mary Gazetas, who penned a book about her paddling adventures and her life as an artist, paddles near her home in Steveston. Story page 4.

Photo: Omar Ruiz-Diaz

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es a uple tak ters wa ond co Richm on the open chance

ion in Adnct ess Love ding kin Sprea the world around dd 11

16 Quilters Never Quit (Volunteering) Volunteer quilters find friendship and rewards in sharing their time and talent

18 The Anvil Salut A tradition of noise, colour and commitment

20 Y2-K Spitfire Will Fly Again

30 Leap into the Unknown

Author Anne Murray put her interests to work to protect the Boundary Bay area

DEPARTMENTS 17 Computer Tips 25 BBB Scam Alert 28 Tasty Traditions Fond memories and heritage recipes

29 Crossword

COLUMNS 3 Successful Retirement

by Dorothy Orr

13 Between Friends

by Doreen Barber

23 Ask Goldie

by Goldie Carlow

32 Just Rambling

by Gipp Forster

Spitfire Ace, Stocky Edwards, reunites with the aircraft in Vancouver, while restoration crews at Comox Airforce Museum work to get it in the air again

• VANCOUVER • BURNABY • NEW WESTMINSTER • WHITE ROCK • NORTH VANCOUVER • LADNER / TSAWWASSEN • PORT MOODY • COQUITLAM • PORT COQUITLAM • SURREY • RICHMOND • WEST VANCOUVER

BALL INnGbe fuAn! Gone Sailing!

HerAciV sing ca Ex

Passionate director Jay Hamburger shares his passion with students in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside

Philanthropists benefit from tax breaks while future generations benefit from their generosity

Senior Living Vancouver is available at most Community Centres, Senior Activity Centres and Libraries in the following municipalities:

D NLAN ER MAI & LOW UVER VANCO

RY/ FEB

Spectacular!

Skagit Valley’s annual Tulip Festival – it’s not just for flower lovers

Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808

JAN UA

Physiotherapy

Is visiting a physiotherapist right for you?

Barry Risto 604-807-8208

_JANF OUVER _VANC

Tuning in to Taxes

26 Leaving a Legacy

7 3:40:44

PM

1/7/200

Call (250) 479-4705 for other locations.

MAGAZINE

EB07.in

COVER

MARCH/APRIL 2007

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Tuning in to Taxes

BY STARR MUNRO

W

ith the onset of spring comes the tedious reality of tax season. Whether a person is 25 or 65, tax preparation can be an onerous, frustrating and timeconsuming burden. Seniors often have the added challenge of multiple sources of income, such as Old Age Security Pension, Canadian Pension, retirement allowances, annuity payments, RRSPs, RRIFs, Capital Gains and investment income.

With all the income options potentially available, retirees may feel they need a math degree or accounting background to wrap their heads around what is required of them at tax time. For those who are not trained accountants, the best approach to tax preparation is to work with a professional. Establish a financial plan, keep good records, and work with experts who know the “ins and outs” of the tax system, especially those familiar with the requirements and needs of seniors.

In an attempt to address the many questions retirees and adults 55 and over have about their taxes, the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) has developed a number of informational resources specific to the needs of seniors.

“There are two important questions

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seniors should ask themselves before they prepare to file their taxes,” says Dave Morgan, Communications Manager for the CRA. “The first question is, ‘Have I received information slips and/or recorded information about all my sources of income, both inside and outside Canada?’ And, ‘Have I recorded and kept receipts for eligible deductions and credits such as medical expenses, charitable donations, RRSP contributions, etc.?’”

“Seniors should determine what types of income from all sources, both inside and outside Canada, they will have and how they will pay the applicable taxes,” says Morgan.

Pre-planning can’t be stressed enough when it comes to effective tax preparation. Most people tend to wait until spring to think about their taxes, but the reality is that many tax frustrations can be avoided by thinking ahead.

By developing a financial plan in early retirement years, regularly organizing all the paperwork related to income sources during the year, and assessing tax requirements, seniors can avoid unexpected surprises come tax time.

“One of the greatest mistakes most seniors make, when it comes to their taxes, is not arranging to have sufficient taxes deducted at [the] source.

As seniors often have multiple income sources, the amount of taxes withheld at [the] source, while sufficient for each income source on its own, may not be sufficient when combined with all other income sources.”

This can result in seniors owing a large amount upon filing their return, which is often difficult for people on a fixed income.

To reduce the impact of paying taxes in a lump sum each year, the CRA provides the option of paying taxes in regular installments throughout the year. If, for more than one year, taxpay-

ers receive income but do not have tax withheld, or do not have a sufficient amount of tax withheld, the CRA may require they pay their tax by installments. Payments are arranged on the 15th of March, June, September and December of each calendar year.

Whether taxpayers prepare their own taxes or hire someone to do them, seniors or retirees will want to know about changes that will affect their 2006 tax return.

What’s new for 2006?

• Age Amount (line 301) – The maximum amount has increased to $5,066.

• Pension income amount (line 314) – The maximum amount of eligible pension income that can be used to calculate the credit has increased to $2,000.

• Refundable medical expense supplement (line 452) – The maximum amount has increased to $1,000.

The CRA has a number of services to assist people in filing their taxes such as the enquiries telephone service, Telefile (phone filing service), Netfile (web filing service) and the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program.

The CRA has also developed a special “Service for Seniors,” which allows seniors to file their 2006 tax return for free, using a touch-tone telephone. This system only requires seniors to identify themselves and answer a few “yes” or “no” questions. Taxpayers must be invited to try the new service, and only those over age 65, with limited income sources and a taxable income in 2005 of less than $10,500, will receive an invitation.

SL For more information call the CRA toll-free at 1-800-959-8281 or visit: www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/individuals/ segments/seniors/menu-e.html

SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND

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SUCCESSFUL

Retirement

BY DOROTHY ORR

Financial Security in Retirement

T

raditionally retirement planning has been about financial planning. Feeling secure about finances is essential for peace of mind.

The issue of how to use the money and make it last is a discussion topic when people plan for retirement. Financial planning is an investment in all aspects your future. As a lifestyle coach, I meet people who only look at financial figures for retirement, but money alone does not determine one’s retirement experience.

The experience of discussing finances for some may be about an emotional connection to money. Taking stock of finances, including having enough money to retire, is a heavy-duty emotional concern for many couples. Financial differences can magnify in retirement. Take action to become a financial team!

Some people choose to work after retirement for a number of reasons. It may be a hedge against the unpredictability of the stock market or a necessity to maintain a particular lifestyle. For others, work is about keeping interests alive and current, not the monetary reward. And a few people refuse to retire in order to leave a financial legacy for their children. No matter what your plans for retirement, they will reflect your attitude about money.

People experiencing the new retirement are at the dawn of change in how our society finances retirement. Increasingly, employers are not providing pension plans, and employees are contractual. Many Canadians try to save in Registered Retirement Saving Plans, because doubts linger about government programs drying up before they reach retirement.

The imminent abolition of mandatory retirement at 65 will give people choices about working until they choose to retire.

Ultimately, this may allow for an increased length of time to accumulate greater financial security in retirement.

Retirement planning includes checking out all possible sources of income, including federal and provincial sources of retirement funding, possible pension funds and invested sources of money. Visit these government Web sites www.canada.gc.ca or www.gov.bc.ca to get more information. Before you start to plan for your retirement, be a savvy consumer, and use available resources.

No matter how well your finances are planned, areas of uncertainty in retirement exist. For example: how long will you live, the value of your dollars over time, the rate of inflation over the term of your retirement, unexpected expenses in housing or travel and unforeseen health or family expenses.

Integrating financial and lifestyle retirement planning is ben-

eficial. Both have the same objective, to help you enjoy retirement. Planning for retirement is not unlike planning a great vacation. Decide where you are going, when you will leave, how you will get there and what activities you will enjoy.

Then, look at how much it will cost and adjust your expenses to suit your finances. Speak with your financial advisor and get some lifestyle planning advice for your retirement.

Those who do well in retirement are good managers of their time, talents and finances. Balancing this with meeting the need to find activities that feed the mind and spirit will enrich life considerably.

SL Dorothy Orr is a Registered Social Worker, qualified Executive Coach, specialising in Retirement and Transitional issues. She is also a Senior Peer Counsellor trainer.

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MARCH/APRIL 2007

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Around One More Point Photo: Omar Ruiz-Diaz

“Let’s go to the beach!” was a daily call in summers spent outdoors, beachcombing and plying the waters of Howe Sound in small wooden boats called “clinkers.”

They fished, picnicked and swam.

“For two months every summer, I rarely wore shoes,” says Mary.

It was an idyllic time and one that taught the girls a love of the outdoors and the sense of adventure reflected in the title of Mary’s book.

BY MARLENE ADAM Mary and Phoebe went their separate ways in adulthood. Mary headed east to pursue studies in costume design at the National Theatre School in Montreal, and ary Gazetas bubbles with vitality and good humour.

Her enthusiasm and energy are contagious – an ac- Phoebe stayed home to attend UBC, then settled in Sooke in the complishment for a woman who, at 63, is just be- late ‘70s. Sixteen years later, Mary returned to B.C. with Aristides and their three children. ginning the next stage of her life as an artist and explorer.

“Phoebe had always been saying, ‘Wouldn’t it be wonderful to Her first book, Around One More Point: A Journal of Paddling Adventures, is the latest creation in a lifetime of creativity as an do an ocean trip?’”

In August 1982, the time was right. Mary’s daughters were with artist, theatre designer, paddler, instructor and columnist.

“A book was a way to combine the trips and my life as an their grandmother, and her husband was taking a course at Stanartist,” says Mary, who lives in Richmond with her husband of ford, as he often did on his summer breaks from teaching.

“Because I wasn’t an experienced ocean paddler at that time, I 40 years, Aristides. Their home faces the open skies with only nature between the property and the river close by where Mary was at first nervous. I remember when the Lady Rose dropped us off with all our gear onto a float – I had a nervous tummy. Would can launch her kayak.

Around One More Point is a compilation of photos, sketches, we tip, get caught in a gale? Doing a camping trip like this was hand-drawn maps and stories gathered over 24 years of paddling new to me. But I had no doubts about going. I was happy to have adventures in the wilds of B.C.’s West Coast. It’s a visual and an adventure with my sister. It was a ‘why not’ kind of summer.”

They chose Barkley Sound, a vast area southeast of Ucluelet, cerebral fantasy, creating an authentic feel more intimate and compelling than a book of professional photographs. The reader filled with over 100 islands of spectacular beauty: sandy beaches, is drawn into camp life so completely that it is easy to imagine old growth forest, and archaeological sites from the Nuu-chahreaching over to pour a cup of coffee from the camp pot or drop- nulth people. This area under the protection of Pacific Rim Naping one’s fingers into the cool, quiet waters passing beneath the tional Park is a popular destination for kayakers and wilderness campers because sheltered inlets allow for a relatively safe explocanoe.

It all started in the ’40s and ’50s when Mary, her identical twin ration of the unique landscape and culture of these coastal islands. sister, Phoebe, and their two brothers, spent their childhood near In 1982, as now, the camping areas were rigidly controlled by Parks Canada. the water in West Vancouver.

M

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“We couldn’t land and set up anywhere we wanted to. I think that was one of the reasons we never went back there. We wanted the freedom to stop wherever we liked. The remoter the places, the better.”

Although the two women and their paddling guests took coastal marine charts with them, they sometimes had to travel for miles to find a place to land. Wind, rain, eight- to 10-foot swells, bears and cougars are part of the wilderness travel reality, and they experienced it all. But there is also the powerful draw of nature at its most beautiful.

“I love the openness of the ocean waters, never feeling hemmed in. I love those stretches of coast, the smell of saltwater, sea life. To meet the open ocean, the blue, the surges, the movement of water, trees shaped by wind, the variety of birds, the sand, the islands, the taste and smell of exposed coast...”

These powerful images drew the two women back repeatedly.

It was Mary’s children who encouraged her to create a book with the hundreds of bits and pieces she gathered throughout her journeys.

“My husband and children always believed in me,” she says.

“They have always had this wonderful idea that whatever you want to do, you have to believe you can do it. It was a huge inspiration.”

This “can do” philosophy and the phenomenal support of her family provided an underpinning to a life filled with accomplishments.

After taking early retirement from Richmond Parks & Recreation where she worked for 16 years in the culture and heritage department, Mary taught at Langara College.

She has had art showings in West Vancouver, Steveston and Richmond featuring the unique and evocative work she produces from found objects in nature, particularly around bodies of water like rivers and oceans (pictured below). Her most recent pieces are collections, called Beachscapes, made of pieces of wood, shell, stone, bone, plastic and glass.

Mary writes a weekly column for the Richmond Review entitled Folio One. Originally, the column dealt with topics of Richmond’s cultural heritage but has broadened to cover general interest.

For the past five years, she has also been heavily involved in an important project called The Sharing Farm, a community farm dedicated to growing fresh, organic fruit and vegetables for the Richmond Food Bank.

Mary is Chairperson of a group of seven grandmothers who manage the twoand-a-half acres, as well as the 600 or so volunteers who help work the farm every year.

“Most people don’t re-

alize that 26 per cent of the people in Richmond live below the poverty line.”

Last summer, the community farm produced 16,000 pounds of fresh, wholesome food, which the food bank used to serve more than 350 families per week.

“Before Christmas we had winter vegetables to bring in, so we were out there in the rain and mud digging up beets and cutting brussels sprouts.”

“Sometimes you don’t know what’s around the next corner,” says Mary. One gets the feeling this truth has provided the catalyst for a lifetime of exploration and discovery.

“It’s about not giving up on dreams,” Mary says. “For me there were two: first the trips, then the book.”

SL

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MARCH/APRIL 2007

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Physiotherapy keeps you moving!

BY MARGARET BARR

P

hysiotherapy is a health profession that specializes in Patients don’t need a physician’s referral to see a PT in private preventing or resolving physical mobility problems. practice or to have a private practice PT come to their home and When people find themselves limited in daily activities provide treatment. But because physiotherapy was taken off the or recreation because they can’t move as well as they once did, list of MSP services in 2002 by the provincial government, the it’s time to consider seeing a physiotherapist (PT). Moreover, cost averages $45-$65 for an initial visit and $35-$55 for return people who are at risk for an overuse or movement injury should visits, depending on the extent of treatments provided. People get advice from a PT before finding themselves sidelined. with extended medical benefits plans may be eligible to have The terms “physiotherapy” and “physical therapy” are inter- some of this fee reimbursed. Insurers can provide information on changeable, as are “physiotherapist” and “physical therapist.” how much of this treatment is covered.

A PT is a university graduate licensed to practice as a profesFor people on premium income assistance, MSP will pay up sional within the regulations of the provincial Health Care Act. to $23 per treatment, for a maximum of 10 private-practice physThe College of Physical Therapists of British Columbia oversees iotherapy treatments annually. If someone is injured on the job or the licensing and regulatory requirements for safe practice. in a car accident, physiotherapy will likely be provided through A PT is qualified to establish a physical diagnosis; determine the Worker’s Compensation Board or ICBC at no cost. the potential for maintaining or improving movement; and proBe aware that people who decide to take a physician’s refervide a program for return of activity. Any loss of activity or per- ral to a private practice PT instead of waiting for a public health formance from a physical injury or malfunction, like stroke, joint physiotherapy service, will pay the private practice fees (though disease, sports injury, brain injury, aging, still be eligible for any premium assistance congenital anomalies or accidents are reaor extended medical reimbursement). sons to seek the advice and services of a The human body has What to expect PT. As well as their clinical expertise, PTs its own healing time After arriving at a physiotherapy clinic, may also be researchers, teachers, conclients fill out a form about their general sultants and business entrepreneurs. and process after an health, current physical difficulties and Why physiotherapy? injury... People can help the desired outcome. This helps the PT The human body has its own healing focus on which limbs or movements need the healing process by time and process after an injury, whethattention first, what tests might be useful staying active in the er the cause is neurological (such as a and how much can be accomplished in a stroke), cardiovascular (such as a heart first or subsequent visits. Think of it as right way. attack), sports related or simply the wear problem solving with a body expert as an and tear of everyday life and aging. Peoadvisor. ple can help the healing process by staying active in the right The client and PT discuss treatment options and decide on a way. A PT specializes in optimizing body movements. treatment plan for achieving the client’s goals. The plan will inBut physiotherapy isn’t just about recovery. Most people can clude details like the possible number of visits, the type of treatbenefit from physiotherapy by learning how to prevent injury or ments (such as exercise, pain relief, ultrasound) and the need for movement problems. Flexibility, strength, endurance, balance, other professionals (such as an orthotist), as well as how to adapt co-ordination and posture, training regimes and exercise tech- daily routines to achieve the desired outcome. nique all contribute to an efficient and happily functioning body.

Much of the important work will need to be done by the cliWhether the goal is to prevent an accident in the hallway of a ent – with specific exercises or proper positioning of the injury, person’s home or on the ski slopes, a PT can offer advice and while learning alternate ways of accomplishing tasks through the guidance on the way to keep the body moving at its full potential recovery period. What clients do between treatment sessions is and minimize problems. often crucial to how fast and how well they achieve their goals.

To get the most out of the initial visit, clients should bring a list When to see a physiotherapist of questions.

Patients need a physician’s referral to see a PT in a public Where to find a physiotherapist health hospital and in some rehabilitation or long-term care centres. In this case, the B.C. Medical Services Plan (MSP) usually Physiotherapists work closely with physicians and other pays for treatments. medical or fitness professionals in hospitals, sports medicine 6

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clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, community health programs, rehabilitation centres, industrial sites and private practice clinics.

Some PTs work with a variety of clients in a general practice. They have expertise in a wide range of conditions. Others choose to specialize and develop specific skills for particular circumstances. Sports physiotherapists, for example, work mostly with people who have sports-related injuries. Orthopedic physiotherapists will have a large clientele of people with back injury or pain and overuse injuries like tendonitis.

Many physiotherapy clinics offer services in more than one language. And they’re spread throughout Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Word of mouth is still the best way to find out about services in the community. Alternatively, check the Yellow Pages for listings of private practice physiotherapy clinics that specialize. The grey pages usually list hospital physiotherapy departments.

The Physiotherapy Association of B.C. (PABC) has a Web site at www.bcphysio.org The PABC also puts out a directory of PTs practicing in the province, available in some physician offices or community health centres. The listings are voluntary, so may not be comprehensive.

For more information, the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia can be contacted at www.bcphysio.org or 604-736-5130 or by e-mail at info@bcphysio.org SL

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hen the burly, unaffected tour bus driver rounded the corner and entered the farmer’s field, the clouds made way for the sun, casting dazzling light on brilliant colour. The sight overtook him as his eyes welled with tears: “I’ve never seen anything this beautiful.”

What he saw was row upon row of tulips. Blooms as far as the eye could see, like Dorothy’s poppy field in 1939 blockbuster The Wizard of Oz. “People are truly amazed when they see the sight of hundreds of acres of tulips,” says Cindy Verge, executive director of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. “Even if you’re not a flower fan, you’ll be impressed by the fields of flowers you’ll see.”

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With the area’s ideal climate conditions, tulips have long been a lucrative crop in the Skagit Valley, 112 km south of Vancouver. Hundreds of visitors would drop by every year at the dawn of spring to take in the sights and smells of Mother Nature.

So, in 1984, the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce decided to celebrate the Valley’s rich agricultural heritage by launching the first annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

Today, Verge estimates they welcome between 300,000-400,000 visitors throughout April. And what started with five activities has blossomed into 40 events and activities, engaging business owners, fundraising groups, volunteers and locals.

Beginning April 2, the Kiwanis Club will serve their traditional Salmon Barbecue daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the historic Hillcrest Lodge. Club members estimate they serve between 10,000-12,000 meals each year. There’s special pricing for seniors and groups of 15 or more can e-mail their orders in advance to kiwanisbbq@hotmail.com Larger events are organized around the weekends, but there’s plenty to do during the week.

“People enjoy touring the gardens,” says Verge, “but they should allow themselves enough time to poke around the Valley and [embrace] the agricultural flavour of our area.”

There’s a month-long art show, and a two-day quilt show that attracted over

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Photo: Erin Grandy

Photo: Wade Clark Jr.

SPECTACULAR!!

SPECTACULAR

R!!

Photo: Wade Clark Jr.

3,000 people last year. Visitors come from as far away as Korea, Israel and Europe. Verge says 12 per cent of the Festival-goers venture down from British Columbia, and many more flock from all corners of the United States. Hawaii residents are especially captivated with the tulip fields since tulips do not grow in Hawaii. And the same goes for Florida, Texas and Oklahoma, where winters never get cold enough to create natural growing conditions for the spring bloom.

In addition to the farmers’ fields where visitors can tramp around in the mud, there are two display gardens – Roozengaarde and Tulip Town. Here, nature has a little help, so the tulips are in bloom the entire month. In the fields, the bloom happens when the tulips are ready.

“The busiest day of the Festival is the sunniest Saturday in April, when the tulips are in full bloom,” says Verge.

When that is, is anybody’s guess. But Verge assures there is “always” a bloom in April.

Behind the scenes, the Festival only has two paid staff, but hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly to make the annual event a success.

“We couldn’t work the Festival without our volunteers,” says Verge, “and many of them are senior citizens.”

On April 14 in La Conner, the Festival Parade will get underway at 2 p.m. Two stages will host performances and there’ll be a salmon dinner, activities for the grandkids and the Shriners for a laugh.

Verge suggests packing gardening mud shoes to trudge around the tulip fields. The weather at this time of year can be unpredictable, so be prepared for cold, clouds, rain, sleet, wind, sun and warmth – all within a 30-minute block.

For visitors with mobility challenges, the display gardens have either gravel or paved walkways. And the magnificence of most farmers’ fields can be viewed from the comfort of a car.

To request a brochure or download it online, visit www.

SL tulipfestival.org or call 1-360-428-5959.

In Celebration of Purdy’s 100th Anniversary

A

Chocolate

Affair

All chocoholics over 19 are invited to join Science World for these special evening events:

SWEET FLICKS Friday, March 30, 6:30 pm Settle in with your sweetheart, watch your favourite chocolate movie ... ‘Chocolat ’... and enjoy some sweet treats from the Purdy’s chocolatiers on-site! · $15 per person ·

LIKE WINE FOR C H O CO L AT E Saturday, April 28, 7 pm Smooth wine, smooth chocolate, smooth sounds.

Sample fine wines, chocolates — and all that jazz — and discover the perfect match. · $30 per person / $50 per couple ·

I RO N C H O CO L AT I ER Saturday, May 5, 7 pm Watch local chefs wage a chocolate battle to make the most incredible, edible concoctions! · $30 per person / $50 per couple · For more information or to buy tickets, call 604 · 443 · 7502 (8:30 am – 5 pm, M – F) or email chocaffair@scienceworld.ca.

Visa and Mastercard accepted. No refunds or exhanges.

Photo: Erin Grandy

All chocolate generously provided by Purdy’s Chocolates as part of The Story Of Chocolate exhibition, February 9 – May 6.

Above, the Shriners are a crowd pleaser at the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival parade.

Left, a farmer’s field errupts with colour when the tulips bloom each spring.

MARCH/APRIL 2007

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THE DRAMA OF TEACHING & DIRECTING

BY MONA LEE

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Photo: Mona Lee

N

ew York native Jay Hamburger is a drama teacher with the Vancouver School Board’s Continuing Education program and the Carnegie Community Centre’s Theatre Workshop. For 13 years, he’s also been the Artistic Director of Theatre in the Raw, a grassroots community theatre on Vancouver’s Commercial Drive.

“I’m not yet 60,” says Jay. “Don’t let the white hair fool you!”

As the son of two The New Yorker magazine reporters, Jay grew up aware of American politics and social issues. He developed talents in writing, poetry and theatre in an unconventional school system that focused on the arts. Later, he attended Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Technical College, an institution known for its dramatic arts and technical engineering programs.

“I started off as an actor and then went into writing and directing,” he says. “I stopped acting and writing to focus on directing and producing.”

When his mother moved to Canada and remarried, Jay joined her, feeling angry at American imperialism, racism and civil rights injustices.

Jay took a break from theatre when he left home and hitchhiked around North America, working at carnivals and restaurants and baling hay before returning to the world of theatre and writing.

“The three to five year hiatus halted my artistic development. Theatre is a demanding art and craft that requires discipline,” says Jay. Eventually, life led Jay and his wife, artist Atty Gell, to the idyllic Sunshine Coast, a fishing community in coastal British Columbia. They were outspoken logging activists who were arrested in 1993 at Clayoquot Sound for non-violent activity.

“I could either protest for most of my life and land in jail, or explore other things I did well and do political plays to break down racism,” says Jay. “I was living hand-to-mouth, at the time, and had few assets because the chances of getting arrested and [being] charged were so great. I decided to become a Canadian citizen and start a family.”

The couple moved to Vancouver, where Jay founded Theatre in the Raw in 1994, with the goal to produce “quality, risktaking artistic works with substance.” Theatre in the Raw has participated in Seattle’s Fringe Festival, toured B.C.’s coast and Lower Mainland and premiered original Canadian plays

in Vancouver.

Jay also works at the Carnegie Community Centre, located in the Downtown Eastside, a neighbourhood infamous for its poverty, prostitution and drug activity. Carnegie Centre offers various outreach, multicultural and arts activities for its residents. Jay’s Theatre Workshop is one such program, which started with a 45-year-old woman approaching him to direct and produce a play she penned as a teenager. It was about a woman in love with a drug addict. Jay rewrote it and presented it at a reading sponsored by the Carnegie Centre.

“What began as a memoir of sorrows, an extraordinary production, resulted in a panel discussion that included police, addicts and counsellors,” he says. “Someone approached me and asked, ‘Why don’t you run a theatre workshop?’”

Jay was interviewed and hired by Carnegie to develop and instruct the free, drop-in theatre workshop. The Nuts and

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Bolts of Theatre is an introduction to the Greek plays, Shakespearean works, playwriting, design, improvisation, scenes, directing and auditions. The eventual goal is that each “student” writes a play.

While he’s dealt with “shit-disturbers who are dysfunctional and in no shape to be in a workshop” he also has regulars who’ve attended his workshop for six years. In fact, some have gone on to work in professional theatre.

He has met talented writers like Sheila Baxter through Carnegie’s workshop. Baxter’s play about a man who died in a dumpster was performed in a church and is now being published.

Jay co-ordinated, directed and broadcasted Carnegie’s original radio plays over Vancouver Co-op Radio 102.7 FM. His workshop attendees also wrote a remarkable play about the missing women of the Downtown Eastside, a hot and controversial issue he feels should be approached and performed.

“I’ve taught at Carnegie for years, dealing with dysfunctional people and having great results and difficult times,” says Jay. “Teaching at the Vancouver School Board is sometimes wonderful, an incredible contrast to Carnegie…not as dysfunctional because the students are professionals in their own fields, have their lives together, and not carrying a huge load of baggage.”

In the process of teaching, Jay has learned much about himself, people and the craft. For him, teaching is an opportunity to nurture others’ exploration of the dramatic arts and help them gain confidence. He continues to learn the importance of patience, focus and listening to students’ fears, wants and desires.

“A lot of it is instinct and students get back in touch with those instincts and try to have enough confidence to let go.

I try not to be intimidating when I direct, to never yell, to have a lot of patience, and not jump to any conclusions. I’ve learned that people can be enormously creative, troubled and can screw up.”

Not only does Jay teach classes, he takes them too. He enthusiastically describes a course on how to teach opera to children. Fellow students were all teachers, mostly females, who could sing and dance. As a group, they created and performed an opera about a child in a concentration camp. He found the experience intimidating and amazing.

“It was with some very experienced adults who are deeply involved in teaching with passion. It was marvellous because, once in a while, we’d talk about behavioural problems in the classrooms. It’s nice to know that I’m in some company and not alone out there.”

Eventually, Jay would love to return to writing and produce a successful and substantial piece of theatre. For now, he is working on Mythological Voices For Our Time and The Tipping Point.

The first project, Mythological Voices For Our Time, consists of one-act submissions based on cultural myths. The 12 to

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I have had more calls from all over Vancouver Island on the Salvation Army’s Planned Giving Programs - all because of advertising in Senior Living. I thank them for the increase in publication and circulation so I can reach a wider senior audience ….

God Bless and thanks for asking me to partner with you …

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Photo: Mona Lee

15 entries, many submitted by women, will be produced and showcased in a festival.

The second project, The Tipping Point, is a musical about Bruce Eriksen, the late Vancouver city councillor and husband of NDP MP Libby Davies. Eriksen was a Downtown Eastside activist who was integral in saving the Carnegie Building from demolition, starting the Downtown Eastside Residents Association and ensuring that sprinklers were installed in single-resident occupancy hotels.

Jay has celebrated personal and professional triumphs, and weathered the challenges of theatre work. He is proud that Theatre in the Raw received a citation from Libby Davies for community work, and the 11th Annual Roger Inman Memorial Award for Community Economic Development in 2004. He Jay’s wife, Atty, puts her artistic talent to use for Theatre in the Raw. praises the people who help him bring theatre to life. the company got their third Canada Council grant. “That’s a “Atty, my wife, has done superb artwork for theatre,” says big step towards getting the company on a more financially Jay. “We have fantastic actors, people from the Downtown secure plateau after 13 years at this. I’ve learned what it’s Eastside, and one person from the Vancouver School Board like to ask for funds, get rejected, how to struggle on without classes who does costumes for most of our shows.” proper financing, what it’s like to hire people and get them Securing Canada Council grants and arts funding for Thea- to do the work you think they can do and they’re practically tre in the Raw has been an uphill battle for Jay. Fortunately, volunteering. It’s an effort of hundreds of people who are generous enough to give up their time, and I’ve learned the reality of when people don’t work out and what it’s like to fire somebody.”

Jay strongly encourages seniors to get involved in theatre, interact with young people, volunteer on theatre boards and write plays from the senior’s perspective.

Enjoy the challenges of helping Senior Living “If seniors write plays for seniors, that’s going to open magazine grow and expand doors. Not all our plays have to be about kids in love. It’s successfully in the Vancouver & important for the young to see people as they age and listen to Lower Mainland area. what they’re saying, their experiences and wisdom, and learn We are looking for someone who understands the potenfrom them how to survive.” tial of our magazine in the rapidly growing senior market, While Jay admits he is tempted to retire and relax in the appreciates the quality and pride we invest in each issue, Gulf Islands, he prefers to continue working in theatre. Theaand wants to work with us to expand the revenue base of tre is his vehicle to address social injustices and political isour magazine. sues, and his way to “connect with the student and get them to This is a ground-floor opportunity with outstanding potenrealize how wonderful they can be. This is adding something tial for the person who wants to work hard to build their positive to the universe.” income base to an above average level by providing reliTo theatre novices and aspiring actors and playwrights of able service to our business clients. Do you understand all ages, Jay encourages them to see some theatre or take an the growing senior demographic and how this impacts acting class. “Try not to make assumptions or have preconbusinesses? Do you enjoy the challenge of commission ceived notions. It’s about exploring, giving a part of yourself, based selling? If so, please contact us. P/T or F/T availbelieving yourself in that situation. There’s no such thing as able. failure, except by not doing.”

To learn more about Theatre in the Raw, visit their Web site Fax cover letter and resume to at www.theatreintheraw.ca (250)479-4808 or e-mail Jay’s classes are available through the Vancouver School office@seniorlivingmag.com SL Board Web site, www.continuinged.ca

PRINT AD SALES REP NEEDED

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Between Friends Friendship

BY DOREEN BARBER

“Friendship is the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe with a person, having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring all right out just as they are, chaff and grain together, certain that a faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping and with a breath of comfort blow the rest away.”

–author unknown

F

riendship can be likened to a flower that blossoms in the heart, enhanced by love cultivated and nurtured through many stages of evolution.

The word “friendship” covers a broad range of human interaction and leads us to ask, “What kind of friend am I?” Are we friends only to those we know, respect or care about? What about people we don’t know or have any association with? Can we be a friend to them?

The 2006 Noble Peace Prize winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus, a professor of economics in Bangladesh, gives insight into the power of friendship. He was perplexed by the poverty that surrounded him, saying, “I teach a series on economics, but people are going hungry.”

One day, as he walked among the people of a local village, he pondered how he could help one person

for one day. He soon learned that moneylenders held the people in bondage.

After interviewing 43 people, all basket weavers, he learned they could each be set free from debt with $27. Moved by their need, Yunus paid off their debts.

He then offered each of them loans to start their own business ventures with nothing held as collateral; the Gramine Bank was formed.

Some of the businesses involved raising sheep, cows, chickens, weaving baskets and selling cellphones. From that humble beginning, Gramine Bank has now lent over $6 billion worldwide.

Of the individuals who applied for loans, 58 per cent are now independent business owners who are able to fully support themselves, and have climbed out of poverty. Most of Yunus’s customers are women; their children are well fed and are either in school, college or university.

Yunus’s gesture of friendship has forever changed the lives of those who

received the opportunity to better themselves, and help their families.

C.S Lewis put it this way, “Don’t walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don’t walk behind me, I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend.”

Have you touched one person today? Start by asking the question, “What one person can I help today?”

The answer usually comes quickly.

Dr. Yunus reached out in friendship, care, compassion and empathy bringing about freedom from debt and oppression to many.

Friendship is like a sweet fragrance that lifts the spirit of those SL who come into its presence.

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BY BETTY TRASK

Heart-Smart Cooking Y

ears ago, a succulent steak, topped with a gener- den, or are available year-round in the supermarket. They’re ous dollop of herbed butter, and served with a good in salads, marinades, with roasted vegetables or tied in sour cream laden potato was not only absolutely a bundle and added to a pot of beef stew or soup. delicious, it was the norm for a tasty meal.

Reducing the sauce is also a very important step in proWhen the new low-fat way of cooking was introduced, ducing a tasty meal. Don’t be tempted to skip this step, the first few years were pretty awful. Boneless, skinless and which intensifies flavour by evaporating and condensing the mostly tasteless chicken, cooked every which way, had only sauce over lively heat (even if dinner is a few minutes late!). one discernable flavour – whatever The taste and appearance of the meal sauce one put on top. are worth the wait.

In 1990, when my husband In the summer, we routinely fill Roy suffered a heart attack, folour freezer with local berries and lowed by open-heart surgery, his cherries. These make welcome low cholesterol diet became my additions to our morning porfocus. Dietary fats were the enridge and become dessert most emy, and war was declared. nights.

The evolution was taxing.

Roy has a serious sweet tooth; While cookbooks burst at the no meal is complete without desseams with low-fat recipes, low fat sert. I have no trouble finding a vaseemed to mean low taste. riety of cake, cookie or muffin recipes in I tried to change that, and have found the many low-fat cookbooks. Most of these many ways to keep the zip in our meals. things can be frozen and thawed as needed.

One such change, on the advice of my daughter, The Internet also has many sites to go to for ideas. a chef, was to season every layer as I cook. After sauEpicurious.com is great, as is BonnieStern.com or Food téing vegetables, I give them a shake of salt and freshly Network Canada Recipes. Like cookbooks, these sites are ground pepper. Then I do the same with each layer. This a wealth of information, and can keep me busy for hours at method seems to lock in flavours better than adding it all a time. Don’t be afraid to try new recipes – your spouse will at the end. forgive you for the odd flop!

Braising is another of my favourWhen it comes to the barbecue, it’s ites. I used to think only slow cooking one of the best methods for cooking meats (tough cuts) were suitable for meats, fish, and vegetables, too, withWhen the new lowbraising, but now I use it for chicken out excess fat. Nothing better than a fat way of cooking pieces or pork. The key is to simmer piece of grilled chicken or steak on meat gently in a bit of liquid, as it tends a bed of salad greens, especially if was introduced, the to toughen if it’s rushed by high heat. you’ve used a tasty rub or marinade first few years were Be sure the skillet has a tight-fitting first! lid, or is well wrapped with aluminum If fish is not an important part of pretty awful. foil. This technique works equally your current diet, try to eat it more well in the oven or on the stovetop. often. Fish provides protein, niacin, Rubs, too, are a big help in the quest vitamin B3, iron, selenium, zinc and to enhance flavour. The recipe that follows demonstrates essential fatty acids. Health experts recommend eating it one such rub, but you can make them up as you like, using twice a week. your own favourite spices. Rubs are excellent on meats for And remember, have fun in the kitchen! A nutritious the barbecue, too. diet and plenty of exercise are the best ways to a long and One of the biggest hits in the taste department is the use healthy life.

SL of fresh herbs. They are easy to grow in a backyard garBon appétit!

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g

i>Ă&#x152;Ă&#x160;,OW )NTEREST PORK TENDERLOIN WITH SPICE RUB AND CURRANTS 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander seed 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Pinch cayenne pepper 1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloin, trimmed 2 Tbsps olive oil, divided Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup currants 1 cup chicken stock 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves 2 tsp maple sugar Plump the currants by soaking them in 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar for one hour, or to speed the process, gently heat on low for five minutes and let cool.

Combine the dry spices. Rub the tenderloin with 1 Tbsp of the olive oil and coat with the spices. Wrap in plastic wrap. Leave at least 20 minutes for some flavour to develop, or prepare ahead and refrigerate for a more intense flavour.

When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In an ovenproof skillet, heat the remaining oil until very hot. Unwrap the tenderloin and sear to create a nicely browned exterior. Season with salt and pepper. Place the tenderloin in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the pan and wrap to keep warm.

Drain off any excess fat from the skillet and add the Dijon mustard to the pan, whisking to incorporate any pan juices. Add the currants, chicken stock, thyme and maple syrup. Reduce over medium-high heat to a syrupy consistency.

Taste, and adjust the seasonings.When the sauce has thickened, slice the pork and add the juices from the meat to the sauce. Serve drizzled with the sauce and scatter the currants as a garnish.

Serves 4 to 6. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Betty Trask

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We got RESULTS from Senior Living magazine! â&#x20AC;&#x153;Over the last 2 years, Senior Living magazine has been an integral part of our overall advertising strategy.

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QUILTERS NEVER QUIT (Volunteering)

BY BETTY HO

B

16

Jean Valliant works on a quilt to be donated to St. Paul’s preemie nursery.

supportive.”

Yet another volunteer activity kept Jean busy from October to December last year. “There were six in my group and we tested every single Christmas light bulb used in The Festival of Lights at VanDusen Gardens. When the big storm came, we had to test all these thousands of bulbs again!”

Like Beatrice, Jean doesn’t view her many activities as volunteer work, and enjoys the benefits she gains in return.

“I get some satisfaction that I still contribute. I’m 85, going on 58! I spent 35 years behind a desk doing secretarial work, so the furthest thing in my mind was to spend more time in an office.”

Susan Shafer, 67, a former computer programmer, is a kindred spirit to the quilters. She enjoys visiting them because she machine quilts at home and donates her colourful works to the Centre. A volunteer for Make Vancouver Spectacular, she is one of 15 year-round volunteers who travel around the city or their own neighbourhoods and keep the streets tidy by picking up litter. They receive everything needed for the task – gloves, garbage bags, a picker-up tool and orange vest – delivered to their doorstep by City recycling program staff.

It’s volunteer work Susan would like to see more people undertake.

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Photos: Betty Ho

eatrice Kwan’s invitation to join a quilting group at the South Granville Seniors Centre came in the form of a simple question: “Do you know how to sew a straight line?”

That was two years ago. Beatrice, 69, answered “yes” and became one of five women who make quilts for donation to local hospitals or for sale to cover the cost of supplies.

The quilters meet every Monday from 10 a.m. to noon to work together on one giant quilt that stretches across four long poles propped on the backs of four chairs. Volunteer coordinator Jean Valliant keeps production running smoothly.

“I didn’t ask to be in charge,” says Jean as she shows off a finished quilt. “We [also] make panel quilts that we donate to St. Paul’s preemie nursery, although this one I’m holding will likely sell for $40 to $50 to help pay for other craft supplies.”

More a social gathering than a quilting workshop, the women spend two hours a week chatting, telling stories, and hand stitching lines around colourful patterns. The cordial atmosphere makes it easy to forget that this is volunteer work.

“I’m just having fun,” says Beatrice, “because there’s no pressure to do a certain number of quilts. I come here to chitchat.”

Beatrice also enjoys her volunteer work at the B.C. Cancer Agency craft group on Wednesday mornings, where she makes head scarves and small bags for cancer patients.

In addition to co-ordinating the quilting group, Jean also volunteers for the Mustard Seed, a Wednesday afternoon craft group that knits, crochets and makes jams for sale to cover costs for the South Granville Seniors Centre. And once every two weeks she heads over to Youville Intermediate Care Residential Facility for three hours to work at the Youville gift shop.

“I’m there for the residents who sometimes just want to come in and talk,” says Jean. “The staff there are friendly and

“Phone the Spectacular hotline at 604-871-6544,” says Susan. “I can’t stand litter, but I’m careful about staying away from some areas because I don’t want to take away jobs from people hired to keep specific areas clean, such as Granville Street.”

“There’s great satisfaction in doing things that help others, helping community,” says Susan. “I meet interesting people who do interesting things.”

Fun and friendly people, interesting experiences and inner satisfaction are three reasons these women enjoy their volunteer work. And they can all sew a straight line!

Computer Tips & Tricks

A Mouse in the House

SL

BY LOUISE LATREMOUILLE

Volunteer Opportunit ies South Gra nville Senio rs Centre Contact volu nteer co-ord inator Lindsa burn at 604 y Mil-732-0812 o r lm ilburn@south villeseniors.c a gran Visit www.s outhgranville seniors.ca fo information r more Youville In termediate Care Residentia l Facility Contact volu nteer co-ord inator Kay H 604-806-955 ubball at 3 or khubb al l@providence bc.ca health.

Make Vanc ouver Spec tacular Call the Hotl ine at 604-8 71-6544 B.C. Cance r Agency V olunteer S Contact volu ervices nteer co-ord inator Julie 604-877-628 Dahl at 8 or jdahl@ bccancer.bc.c a

Photos: Betty Ho

Quilters Mutsumi, Beatrice and Valerie work together on a volunteer project.

G

etting a computer seemed like a good idea, but the learning curve has been so darned frustrating that the cotton-pickin’ machine just sits there.

Sound familiar? Learning how to use a personal computer doesn’t have to be difficult or frustrating. Some simple basics will get you started.

First, the mouse.

A computer mouse is an extension of the keyboard, with perks! Move your mouse around on your desk and you will see a corresponding arrow move around on your computer screen. They move together, like good dance partners. With a little practice, you will mouse as gracefully as Fred and Ginger danced!

A mouse has two buttons - the left-click button and the right-click button.

Slide your mouse around and left click to instantly place the cursor at that spot on your screen. The left click is used to give commands.

Right click your mouse and you will see a mini menu of commonly used commands. These commands are useful as you become more familiar with your computer.

To open a file or e-mail, always “double-click” with the left-click button.

The best way I can describe how to double-click is with music. In the song Happy Birthday To You, the word “happy” is sung in one beat. To get a double-click beat, sing “happy” twice in the same amount of time that you would normally sing it once. TA DA! It’s that easy.

A computer mouse might also have a roller. With it, you can easily scroll up and down pages on your computer.

New computer users learn best by doing, so go for it!

Have fun, explore and try something new with your computer.

SL Louise Latremouille is the author of My Parents First Computer and Internet Guide. Available at local bookstores or www.myparentsfirst.com, proceeds from the book are donated to the Canadian Cancer Society.

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THE ANVIL SALUTE

BY DALE AND ARCHIE MILLER

“C

over your ears and open your mouth. Don’t scream, just open your mouth.

That way you won’t feel the explosion as much.” Then comes an enormous bang that sets off car alarms, rattles windows and causes those who missed the MC’s words of warning to jump or yelp, and then look around with an embarrassed grin to see if anybody noticed.

Every Victoria Day since the late 1880s, the Ancient and Honourable Hyack Anvil Battery has fired a 21-anvil salute in New Westminster to honour the reigning monarch. At precisely 11:55 a.m., they fire a sighting shot, followed at noon by 21 thunderous explosions at one-minute intervals.

The only exception was in 1901 when the Battery remained silent out of respect for the recently-deceased Queen Victoria.

The tradition of firing a 21-gun salute on the sovereign’s birthday began soon after the Royal City’s establishment by the Royal Engineers and naming by Queen Victoria in 1859. Residents celebrated the birthday of their Queen with rifle fire and cannon shot, at first from naval signal guns, and then from the brass muzzleloading howitzers of the Seymour Artillery Company. When the howitzers were no longer available, the annual ceremony became the responsibility of the Ancient and Honourable Hyack Anvil Battery, formed by ex-members of the pioneer Hyack Volunteer Fire Brigade. “Hyack,” a Chinook 18

word meaning “hurry up,” was an appropriate choice for that energetic group of firemen. Today, descendants of early Battery members still play a part in the ritual firing of the anvils.

The current captain, 94-year-old Bill Drinkwater, for many years, touched off the explosion, a role he inherited from his father, Bob Drinkwater, a blacksmith who remained an active member of the Battery until his death at age 77. When a position becomes available, it usually goes to a relative of a current member – or a least a long-time resident of New Westminster.

By custom, there is only one regular salute fired each year – on Victoria Day. On several historic or unique occasions, however, an extra parade has been called. The Battery has saluted the Silver Jubilee of King George V, the coronation of King George VI, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the 100th birthday of the Province of B.C. on July 1, 1958, and the visits of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip.

For some, that’s part of the thrill of being a member of the group. “How else would an ordinary guy like me get to salute the Queen and actually be introduced to her?” said one longtime member.

The colourful and unusual method of making a loud bang with anvils and gunpowder is based on an English cus-

tom from the 19th century. The “shots” are made by placing a charge of gunpowder between two cast iron blacksmith’s anvils, one turned upside down on top of the other. The gunpowder is placed in a recess in the lower, heavier anvil and levelled with an ordinary playing card, which is then laid on top. The charge is touched off with a red-hot iron rod attached to a long pole, heated in a portable forge, and the top, lighter anvil is blown several feet in the air accompanied by a loud and satisfying report.

Fortunately, since he is often only a few feet from the detonation, that thunderous report is one of the favourite parts of the event for the current Toucher-off, Bert Houston, a 35-year member of the Battery.

Now 83, Bert used to work for the New Westminster Electrical Department, where the anvils were stored between shoots. He always delivered them to the appropriate location with his truck, and was delighted when he was asked to join the group. He still delivers the anvils with his truck – the bottom one weighs 350 pounds and the smaller top one weighs 150 pounds. But now the biggest challenge for him arises when he occasionally sets up the forge too far from the anvil, and needs to ask one of the younger members to take a turn or two running out to set off the explosion.

Fred Sparkes, retired school administrator, has filled most roles in the Battery and is the current Timer. He is hoping other

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family members, like his son and grandson, follow him and join the Battery.

“There is something special about the group,” he says.

“We have no practice sessions, but everything always goes like clockwork.”

Both Fred and Bryan Griffiths, a retired school principal, treasure the camaraderie within the group. Those strong ties are demonstrated each time the group meets socially at Christmas and after the Victoria Day shoot – the families of younger members treat widows of former members like favourite grandmothers.

Every member of the Ancient and Honourable Hyack Anvil Battery stands a little taller when he puts on his bright red and blue uniform. They are proud to be following in the footsteps of their own ancestors, and the pioneers of the City. They know they are the stewards of a colourful and important piece of the history and heritage of New Westminster, the Royal City, and feel privileged to be able to share it each year with the community.

SL The titles given to the members are as colourful as their uniforms: Swabber-off – cleans the surface of the anvils Powder-monkey – handles the powder and places it in the anvil Blower-up – tends the forge Toucher-off – sets off the explosion Right & left hand hoisters and their assistants – place the anvils in position Timer – times the one-minute intervals of the salute Chalker-up – keeps the count In addition, there can be a Recorder, Musical Director, Historian, Medical Officer, Adjutant and Captain.

Editor’s Note: Bill Drinkwater, Captain of the Ancient and Honourable Hyack Anvil Battery, passed away February 9, 2007, after 59 years as a member of the group. The staff at Senior Living wishes to extend our condolences to the Battery and Bill’s family.

Photos courtesy of A Sense of History Research Services Inc.: (From top left, clockwise) Bert Houston about to touch off the anvil explosion in Queens Park Stadium.

Early anvil shoot on 8th Street in New Westminster circa 1910.

Four members of the Anvil Battery carefully carry the forge used to heat the metal rod for the Toucher-off.

Smoke rises and thunder roars from the anvils as they explode apart.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip react to the noise of the anvil firing in front of New Westminster City Hall during their 1983 visit (from The Columbian, March 11, 1983).

604.638.3326 MARCH/APRIL 2007

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Y2-K SPITFIRE WILL FLY AGAIN

BY PAT MURPHY

R

ecently reunited with the famous Spitfire at the Vancouver Airport, it’s been over 61 years since the former Wing Commander, James Francis “Stocky” Edwards sat in the aircraft. Thanks to Robert Jens, a Vancouver aviation enthusiast, Stocky was given access to Robert’s Mk XIV, stored at the Vancouver Airport.

With over 470 combat sorties in his logbook, Stocky, reunited with the aircraft with which he once had a profound connection, was thrilled. Near the end of the Second World War, Stocky (DFC 20

with bar DFM and Order of Canada) commanded an entire wing of Spitfires.

In 1939, Stocky graduated from St. Thomas College in Battleford, Saskatchewan, and immediately enlisted in the RCAF. His dream, like thousands of other young patriotic Canadians, was to fly Spitfires and prevent the Nazis from further advancements.

Stocky eventually realized his dream and flew with several different RAF and RCAF Squadrons, serving in North Africa, Italy and, later, bases out of Southern England leading up to D-Day. He

flew various versions of the Spitfire, but his favourite was the Mk IX. “It was the finest fighter ever built,” he says.

Today, history is being made at the Comox Air Force Museum, where a group of dedicated and committed aviation enthusiasts are restoring the legendary Spitfire Mk IX to an airworthy condition.

The restoration is now in its sixth year of a total rebuild and parts are being fabricated and fitted to an historic aircraft that played a critical role in the

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Left, former Wing Commander James Francis “Stocky” Edwards sits in the cockpit of a MK XIV Spitfire at the Vancouver Airport. The Spitfire Ace had not occupied the seat of a Spitfire for over 61 years.

Right, a wartime photo of Stocky Edwards taken in Germany in May 1945.

Stocky’s initials – JFE – are painted on the side of his Spitfire, as was the policy for Wing Commanders.

Below, a colour depiction of the Y2-K Spitfire created by Brian Cauchi of Malta

eventual defeat of a tyrannical enemy who was determined to conquer the world. Stocky, a frequent visitor to the restoration hangar, is anxious to see the Spitfire back in the air. The restoration team’s biggest challenge, says Stocky, is raising the funds to continue the project.

In an effort to keep the Y2-K Spitfire project moving forward, Stocky is one of 12 Spitfire pilots who have signed a special Limited Edition art print that was commissioned to raise funds. The print is titled “Touche” and is a depiction of the Y2-K Spitfire in action June 30, 1944 over Normandy. On this day, Flight Lieutenant Arnold Roseland shot down two enemy aircraft. Roseland was a veteran of 442 Squadron and served with the Squadron during the early days of the Second World War while stationed at Vancouver. Roseland saw considerable action in the Aleutian campaign; regrettably he was shot down and killed July 13, 1944.

The print was commissioned by his son, Ron Roseland Barnes of Oakville, Ontario to help get the Y2-K Spitfire back into the air. Barnes does not remember his famous father, as he was only seven months old when his father was posted to England to train for the DDay landings. This collectable print will honour his father’s memory and help raise necessary funds.

The Limited Edition print has helped the restoration project raise nearly $15,000 in the past year. Every dollar raised goes to the restoration, says Project Manager Captain Mike Forbes.

All 12 Canadian Spitfire pilots who signed the print can be seen on the project’s Web site at www.y2kspitfire. com The Spitfire hangar is open to the public each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In the past six years, over 31,000 people have visited the hangar to in-

spect “Canada’s most significant aviation project.”

On Sunday, May 20, 12 distinguished, veteran Spitfire pilots will attend the 7th Annual Open House at the Comox Airforce Museum – one of the largest gatherings of Spitfire pilots in recent history. The guest list will include former Lt.-Cmdr. Jimmie Rankin RN, and F/L Hugh Morse RCAF both of Vancouver.

The Spitfire restoration team is expecting over 1,500 visitors that day.

They will be available to answer questions on the history of the aircraft, the restoration project and fundraising efforts. The Spitfire veterans will sign autographs, and many Spitfire souvenirs, which will be available that day, including any remaining Limited Edition prints.

The sound of the Supermarine Spit-

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Right, three of the 12 veteran Spitfire pilots who will attend the May 20 Open House at Comox Airforce Museum.

Left to right, Duke Warren, Jim O’ Toole, and Stocky Edwards.

For more information on the restoration project, contact Pat Murphy at 250-390-4571 or pjmurphy@shaw.ca For directions to visit the restoration hangar at the Comox Air Force Museum, go online to www.y2kspitfire.com 22

The Y2-K Spitfire project hangar is open to the public each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Over 31,000 visitors have dropped in to view the project in the past six years.

Photos(this page and page 20): Pat Murphy

fire powered by its reliable Rolls Royce Merlin engine is like sweet music to those who flew or serviced them during the Second World War. Even for those who only heard it once, it’s a sound forever etched into their memory.

That sound has the ability to transport the mind back to the lush green fields of England, besieged Malta, Anzio, North Africa or the turbulent skies of 1944 Normandy.

The Spitfire is a graceful legend and, in part, prevented Hitler’s jack-booted storm troopers from landing on the beaches of Southern England in the autumn of 1940. The Spitfire was not just a graceful fighter with a deadly reputation and classic lines, it was considered by many as a symbol of victory over evil.

The Y2-K Spitfire will fly again! And it will help all Canadians connect with an exciting piece of Canada’s history. This living memorial will not bring back the heroes who died fighting for Canada’s values, but will allow the memory of their sacrifice to live on.

“Lest we forget.” SL

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Photo: Jason van der Valk

ASK

Goldie

BY GOLDIE CARLOW, M.ED

Dear Goldie: My life seems to be at a standstill since I recently retired.

After years in a business office working as a secretary, I was looking forward to this period of my life, with no commitments and time for fun. However, I feel tired and have no ambition to do anything.

I am a 64-year-old widow, in good health and active. My two sons and three grandchildren live on the East Coast, so I have no family here. I do, however, have many friends and some social life.

What can you suggest to get my life moving in a new direction? R.A. Dear R.A.: You mention that your retirement is recent, so my immediate thought is that you need a period to relax, after all those years in the business world.

First on the agenda, you could check with your doctor regarding your fatigue.

All being well, you could make yourself a plan. You might begin with a visit to your family. When you return, you can make definite plans for social engagements with friends, and eventually travel.

You are beginning a new stage of life. Between travelling and social events, you will find time on your hands. Why not look into volunteering? It can be very rewarding, and a way to meet new people and develop new interests.

However, you need time for you first. Daily walking is a great habit, and a means to clear thinking and insight to life ahead.

Best of luck!

Dear Goldie: I am a 70-year-old male, active, healthy and have a wonderful lady friend. My life was really great until about six weeks ago when a crazy lady moved into the apartment next door. Life has been hell ever since!

Every time I leave my apartment, she seems to be waiting in the hall for me. She grabs my arm and begins an idiotic conversation.

Her chatter, plus her excessive makeup and perfume, would turn anybody off. But she seems all set to snare a man!

I don’t want to move because I like where I live and have been here five years. I can’t take this any longer. What should I do? M.D.

Dear M.D.: You really do have a problem, and while some might find it an amusing situation, it certainly infringes on your privacy.

You have been a tenant for several years, so you could ask your landlord to intervene. I doubt he wants to lose a good tenant.

Another tactic would be to have your lady friend tell her you are taken, and hands off!

Good luck! I (and our readers) would like to hear how you make out.

SL

Goldie Carlow is a retired registered nurse, clinical counsellor and senior peer counselling trainer. Send letters to Senior Living, Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 2C1.

Senior Peer Counselling Centres (Lower Mainland) New Westminster 604-519-1064 North Vancouver 604-987-8138 Burnaby 604-291-2258 Richmond 604-279-7034 Vancouver West End 604-669-7339 Coquitlam – Tri-Cities 604-945-4480

CLASSIFIEDS General listings • Events • Personals

Advertise in Senior Living magazine’s Classified section.

COMING SOON Contact info must be included in each ad, Box #s will not be provided. $30 for 20 words or less. $1.25 per extra word. Plus 6% GST. Payable in advance by cheque or credit card. Make cheque payable to Senior Living, Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Avenue,Victoria, BC V8T 2C1. Call 250-479-4705.

Deadline 15th of the month.

MARCH/APRIL 2007

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PRINT AD SALES REP Enjoy the challenges of helping Senior Living magazine grow and expand successfully in the Vancouver & Lower Mainland area.

Join the Senior Living sales team.

Are you adept at prospecting and providing reliable service to clients? Do you understand how to create effective print ad campaigns for businesses?

We are looking for someone who understands the potential of our magazine in the rapidly growing senior market, appreciates the quality and pride we invest in each issue, and wants to work with us to expand the revenue base of our magazine.

Fax cover letter and resume to (250)479-4808 or e-mail office@seniorlivingmag.com

24

This is a ground-floor opportunity with outstanding potential for the person who wants to work hard to build their income base to an above average level by providing reliable service to our business clients. Do you understand the growing senior demographic and how this impacts businesses? Do you enjoy the challenge of commission based selling?

If so, please contact us.

SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND

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2/27/2007 2:37:08 PM

BBB Better Better Better Better

Business Business Business Business

Bureau Bureau Bureau Bureau

SCAM ALERT

BY LYNDA PASACRETA

Becoming Fraud Aware

M

arch is Fraud Prevention month across Canada. The Better Business Bureau (BBB), law enforcement, banks, businesses and other consumer and business protection agencies join forces to educate the public so they can recognize, report and stop fraud.

While it may be hard to believe that one could become a victim of fraud, the reality is that thousands of people, of all ages and ethnicities, fall victim to identity theft, email and phone fraud each year.

In the last month, the BBB learned that the parent company of Winners and HomeSense had their consumer database hacked into, which exposed the personal information of over two million Canadians.

Talevest Mutual Funds had a hard drive go missing during transport between Montreal and Toronto that led to the disappearance of personal data for 470,000 clients.

The Canadian Department of Finance reported the distribution of fraudulent (phishing) e-mails, which promised a tax refund if an appended form requesting personal information was filled in and returned.

And the RCMP dismantled a telemarketing fraud ring that targeted consumers with poor credit histories, falsely offering debt consolidation and reduced interest rates, for a fee.

On a smaller scale, consumer after consumer called the BBB after receiving phones calls stating they had won a vacation prize package. Many were asked to provide their credit card number in order to book their free holiday vacation. And every day, consumers receive e-mails, phone calls and mail promising large lottery winnings that can be cashed in for a comparatively small fee.

No matter what the scam, the purpose of these elaborate plots is to steal people’s financial information or their “identity,” so that the scam artist can profit, while the

victim suffers. Scam artists are creative and savvy at pulling these stunts off, and everyone is susceptible.

Statistics compiled by PhoneBusters in 2005 and 2006 demonstrate the degree to which phone fraud has evolved in the past couple of years. In 2005, there were 12,409 reported cases of identity fraud in Canada, totalling nearly $9 million in losses. In 2006, there were 7,778 reported cases, totalling over $16 million in losses. There may be fewer victims one year to the next, but the financial impact of ID theft has increased dramatically over the past two years.

Another interesting statistic is the age range and financial losses experienced by victims of telemarketing prize and lottery frauds. In 2005, 72 per cent of reported victims of this type of fraud were under 60 year of age, while 28 per cent were over 60. The total average dollar loss per victim was about $11,000. In 2006, 60 per cent of victims were under 60, while 40 per cent were over. The total average dollar loss per victim in 2006 was closer to $5,000.

This means between 2005 and 2006, victims lost less on average to telemarketing prize and lottery fraud, but more seniors became victims. And the impact of a $5,000 loss to many seniors can be devastating.

Rather than being terrified one might become a victim of fraud, the BBB recommends people take the time to educate themselves about the different scams and frauds that could impact them. PhoneBusters has detailed descriptions of current scams. Visit www. phonebusters.com for more information.

The BBB posts regular news alerts on our Web sites about new scams impacting our region. Visit the current alerts

page at www.bbbvan.ca Victims of a fraud or scams should not be embarrassed to report it. By reporting incidents of fraud, not only do victims help themselves, they also provide enforcement agencies with valuable information they can use to catch the thieves.

What to do when fraud is identified: • Victims of fraud should contact their local RCMP Detachment or police service. Also, be sure to contact financial institutions to report the fraud, and patiently work with them to see if the money can be returned. In many cases, money lost to fraud cannot be recovered.

• Forward a copy of fraudulent e-mail to PhoneBusters at info@phonebusters. com where their intelligence gathering unit, called the Canadian Anti-fraud Call Centre (CAFCC), collects and reviews such scams.

• Nigerian/West-African letters received via e-mail or mail should be forwarded to PhoneBusters as well. PhoneBusters is interested in copies of any “new” versions of Nigerian letter schemes, particularly those involving Canadian mailing addresses or telephone numbers.

• To verify the legitimacy of an offer, contact the BBB to check out the company and discuss the potential offer or scam before sharing any personal information.

The BBB will often know if a scam is being targeted in a specific area, and work with enforcement agencies to share information about suspect companies.

SL Lynda Pasacreta is President of the Better Business Bureau of Mainland B.C. For confidence in marketplace transactions, contact the Better Business Bureau to check a company report or Buyers’ Tip before you purchase or invest. www.bbbvan.org or 604-682-2711. To contact Lynda Pasacreta, e-mail her at president@bbbvan.org MARCH/APRIL 2007

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LEAVING A LEGACY

BY JUDEE FONG

“From a tiny acorn grows the mighty oak.”

L

ike the acorn in this old maxim, regardless of the size of a bequest, it can grow into a lasting legacy.

Financial advisors often hear the same question, “Shouldn’t I leave my entire estate to my children and relatives?” Depending on the current tax laws, adding a bequest to a favourite charitable organization can reduce the final personal taxes owing after death.

“Your estate will benefit from a tax deductible charitable bequest,” says David Denley, KPMG Tax Partner, Corporate Advisory Services. “The simplest way to leave a bequest is in your will, naming the charitable organization with the specific dollar amount they are to receive. Be sure the organization or foundation is a registered charity that can issue receipts. [British Columbia] has no estate taxes, but there is a probate fee. When you pass away, you are generally deemed to have disposed of all your assets at fair market value, which may or may not give rise to taxable gains. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule so you should seek professional advice from a tax advisor, financial planner or estate planner.”

Other kinds of bequests may be an insurance policy or an RRSP naming a charitable organization as the beneficiary.

A charitable remainder trust is another source of income one might consider bequeathing to a registered non-profit organization or foundation. This type of trust allows the donor to retain the income and receive the tax benefits for life, but upon death, the remainder passes to the designated charity. This type of trust cannot be taken back, is not subjected to probate fees and is not included in one’s estate. The tax savings can be substantial.

Another bequest may involve securities such as real estate, mutual funds, stocks and bonds. Due to federal tax changes in May 2006, the 50 per cent capital gains tax on securities was eliminated, if it was given as a charitable donation. This has generated significant tax benefits for donors.

Lastly, an endowment is a gift made in life or bequeathed in one’s will that provides an ongoing source of income for the designated charitable organization.

People should always consult an estate planner or financial advisor to learn how planned giving can work to their advantage – whether in the present, when they can reap the benefits of a tax break, or after death, when their estate benefits.

The Community Foundation of Canada cites a number of reasons why people include bequests to registered charitable foundations in their wills: A personal and positive experience with a specific organization; a wish to remember a friend or relative; a need to help others less fortunate; a desire to give back to the community, and the bonus of tax benefits.

Alice MacKay, a hard-working secretary, wanted to do some26 26

thing special for Vancouver. In 1944, she gifted her life savings of $1,000 to the fledgling Vancouver Foundation. It was her wish that the money be used to help Vancouver’s homeless women trapped in poverty. W.J. VanDusen, an influential philanthropist who created the Vancouver Foundation in 1943, was inspired by Alice’s gift – the first donation for his Foundation. He convinced nine other Vancouver philanthropists to match his own $10,000 donation.

The original capital of $101,000 has grown to over $800 million today – the largest community fund in Canada.

“The Vancouver Foundation brings to grant making a knowledge of community issues and the many organizations involved in addressing them,” says Andrea Majorki, Communications Co-ordinator for the Vancouver Foundation.”

“Donors can leave bequests to numerous existing funds under the umbrella of the Foundation, create new funds for a specific purpose meaningful to the gift-giver, or contribute to several “open funds” where no donation is too small.”

Like the tiny acorn, Alice MacKay’s gift grew into an active and healthy endowment fund. Education, arts, sciences, health, music and more benefit from grants totalling $35 million, distributed annually by the Vancouver Foundation to communities throughout B.C. For many people, the bewildering maze of estates, trusts, wills and bequests can be confusing. Julia Jenkins is one of many Elder Planning Counsellors (EPC) trained to work closely with seniors, guiding them through this puzzle.

“Elder Planning Counsellors may have an additional background as financial planners, healthcare professionals, lawyers, accountants, estate planners or tax specialists. [We] are also trained and qualified to deal with a wide range of Elder issues,” says Jenkins.

“The EPC may offer professional advice or refer to other specialists in the appropriate field. [We] take care to make sure the decisions are truly that of the elder, and in his or her best interests.”

The Canadian Association of Gift Planners (CAGP) is a national organization of professionals from various disciplines who ensure donor’s bequests go to the charitable organization closest to the donor’s heart.

“LEAVE A LEGACY is a public awareness program under Photo: Doug Compton CAGP,” says Andy Wickey, spokesperson for LEAVE A LEGACY in Vancouver. “It is sponsored by various non-profit organizations and estate planning professionals encouraging people to consider leaving a gift to charity in their wills. The theme of the program, “Make a difference in the lives of those who follow,” emphasizes the point that, large or small, the bequests will benefit future generations.”

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on

LEAVE A LEGACY’s minimal fundraising, says Wickey, covers the costs of their public awareness programs.

“Our larger mandate is to help other registered non-profit charitable organizations by introducing the idea of legacy giving to their donors.”

Vancouver’s Peter Chipman, Director of Planned Giving for Variety-The Children’s Charity of B.C., which endorses LEAVE A LEGACY, says since Variety’s creation 16 years ago, generous donors have made bequests in their wills totalling $16 million.

“This represents a large percentage of our annual fundraising revenue and enables us to help many more children who have special needs in British Columbia.”

Among hundreds of British Columbians, notable bandleader Dal Richards has left a bequest to help the province’s special needs children. He believes in Variety’s mission.

“I have been supporting Variety for almost 40 years with my Big Band music,” said Richards in an earlier interview with Peter Chipman. “Because of the bequest to Variety in my will, I shall continue to support B.C.’s children with special needs long after I am in Big Band Heaven.”

People, who care enough to include bequests to charitable organizations in their wills, leave a legacy of financial assistance and hope.

“Bequests to The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) represent a commitment to thousands of individuals who turn to the CNIB each year when they experience significant vision loss,” says Sylvia Zylla, CNIB Associate for Corporate and Personal Giving. “We work in the community providing programs and services to visually impaired children, students, working-age adults, seniors and their families.”

Donors can specify where their bequests may be used, designating areas such as orientation and mobility, independent living skills and others.

Often, donors wish to make a bequest to a charitable organization or foundation within their community or province.

The designated CNIB – B.C./Yukon Division, for example, ensures bequests remain in British Columbia.

Established in 1935, the B.C. Cancer Foundation is another local independent charitable organization. At that time, B.C. had the worst cancer prognosis in Canada. Today, it has the best.

“Once donors learn they can give through their will, they feel empowered knowing that, even though they may not be able to give right now, they can leave a gift supporting B.C. Cancer Agency’s world-class research into the future and [make] a difference in many people’s lives right here in B.C.,” says Isabela Zabava, Senior Director of Planned Giving for the B.C. Cancer Foundation.

British Columbia Paraplegic Association (BCPA) has a rich history of growth and success in creating opportunities for people with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities. BCPA have encouraged their members to live independent lives and contribute to their communities.

Planned giving is more than giving money to a worthy cause; it’s a legacy from the heart and a gift of caring for future SL generations.

For more information on the organizations mentioned: Variety-Children’s Charity of B.C., Peter Chipman, 604-320-0505; peter.chipman@variety. bc.ca B.C. Cancer Foundation, Isabela Zabava, 604-877-6157; izabava@bccancer.bc.ca LEAVE A LEGACY, Andy Wickey, 604-532-2650; a.wickey@telus.net Vancouver Foundation, Andrea Majorki, 604-688-2204; Andrea@vancouverfoundation.bc.ca Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) B.C./ Yukon Division, Sylvia Zylla 604-431-2002; Sylvia.Zylla@cnib. ca Elder Planning Counsellor (EPC) Toll-free: 1-877-332-8383

MAGAZINE

WRITERS and PHOTOGRAPHERS REQUIRED Senior Living needs your help finding writers and photographers in the Vancouver area. We are looking for people who enjoy writing or taking photos, meeting people, and are able to meet deadlines. Professional experience is not necessary. We are willing to assist people who enjoy writing or have a knack for taking interesting photos - as long as they are willing to learn and take direction from our editorial staff.

May be any age.

SALES REPS NEEDED Do you have a passion for seniors and enjoy print ad sales?

If you possess a desire to be part of a team and would enjoy the challenges of helping a young magazine grow and expand successfully, then you might be the person we’re looking for. You must be adept at closing sales, provide reliable service to clients, and understand how to create effective print ad campaigns for businesses. We are looking for part time or full time sales reps in all areas of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Call (250)479-4705 or email office@seniorlivingmag.com MARCH/APRIL MARCH/APRIL2007 2007

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TASTY Traditions

BY KRISTJANA MAGNUSSON CLARK

VINARTERTA Batter:

T

he name “Vinarterta” evokes memories of the aroma of cookie dough baking, along with the smell of sweet prunes bubbling in a pot on the woodstove at Grandma’s house. Grandma would look at us, saying in her soft lilting voice, “Vinarterta always keeps so well and is wonderful to have when company comes.”

Vinarterta (Vienna Tart) originated with Viennese bakers and became popular in Iceland. Icelanders in Canada turned it into a tradition, and it has often been used as a wedding cake by the younger generation. Usually baked in six thin layers, it’s spread with a rich, flavourful prune filling. Topped with butter icing and sprinkled with colourful rainbow decorations, it’s an attractive and mouth-watering layered creation.

NEW 2006 EDITION

VANCOUV ER ISLAN

VANCOUVER ISLAND

TO SENIOR

RESIDEN

CES AND200 CA5

/ 200 RE OP6 TIONS

2006 / 200

Housing Guide for Seniors • Informative articles • Up-to-date listings of senior housing facilities throughout Vancouver Island.

D GUIDE

Senior L ifestyles A Hous ing Gui de for Se ni ors

Alert Bay Campbe ll Chemain River us Cobble Hill Comox Courten ay Crofton Cumberl and Duncan Gabriola Island Ladysmit h Lake Cow Nanaimo ichan Parksvill e Port Albe rni Port Har dy Qualicum Salt Spri Beach ng Shawniga Island n Lake Sidney Sooke Victoria

New thi s issue Age in : Place Op tions An Annua

l Publica

tion of MAGAZIN E

Published annually by Senior Living magazine Vancouver Island Senior Housing Guide Order Form Name _________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________ Postal Code ______________

Phone: _____________________

Cheque for $5.30 ($5 + GST) is enclosed.

Mail to: Senior Living Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 28

7

1 cup butter 1 cup sour cream 2 cups sugar 2 eggs 2 tsps baking soda 2 tsps baking powder 1 tsp almond extract dash of ground cardamom 6 cups flour (approximately)

Cake: Cream butter, add eggs and sour cream. Sift dry ingredients and work into mixture. Add flavouring. Knead in flour. Roll into about 10 or 12 round or square layers as this recipe makes two six-layer cakes. Bake layers at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes. Cool and spread prune filling between layers.

Prune filling: 2-3 cups prunes, cooked and puréed 2 cups sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla dash of ground cardamom Prune water Boil prunes in water until soft. To get the best moisture content when cooking prunes, barely cover them with water in the cooking pot. After prunes are stoned and puréed, heat to dissolve the sugar, stirring constantly, cooking to spreading consistency. Add vanilla and cardamom flavouring. Ice, decorate and serve proudly.

SL

Please send us YOUR favourite Heritage Recipe along with the memories it evokes.

Without your contributions, Tasty Traditions doesn’t exist.

Contact us at office@seniorlivingmag.com or Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 2C1

SENIOR LIVING VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND

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Crossword PUZZLE Across 1. Arterial plaque deposit 11. Sweetheart 12. In bed 13. Menu 14. Married woman 16. Name 18. Globes 19. Ancient North Briton 20. Anti-knock fluid 21. Where events are held 22. Drinks slowly 26. Peak 27. Shout of greeting 31. Implement 32. Catch sight of 33. Move along in a stream 34. Ark builder 35. Laugh loudly 36. Select

Mind GAMES 37. Health resorts 40. Middle Eastern monarchy 42. Pains 43. Cozy 45. Makes brown 46. Subordinate ruler 47. Ribbons 52. Rhythmic swing 53. Bluish white metallic element 56. Penniless 57. Fifth month 58. A West Coast American Indian people 59. Car race 60. Soon 61. Oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own person 62. A European customs union

Down 2. Ski-tow bar 3. Aromatic plant

4. Consumes 5. Regret 6. Pertaining to circumstances 7. Charge per unit 8. Notice of death 9. Third son of Adam 10. Indolently 13. Seashore 14. Chop into small pieces 15. Precipitous 17. Arm joint 19. Seed of a legume 23. Grecian architectural style 24. Dog 25. Quench 28. Astir 29. South American ruminant 30. Navigation system 36. Trousers 38. Sacred song 39. Bad-tempered 41. Child cruelty prevention organisation 44. Pistol 48. Related by blood 49. Yearn deeply 50. Finishes 51. Eye infection 53. Sector 54. Image of a deity 55. Not upper class 58. Adult male

ANSWERS

MARCH/APRIL 2007

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2/27/2007 2:37:19 PM

BY JEAN WIGHTMAN

“I

wonder what direction my life would have taken if I’d gone to Greenland,” quips author Anne Murray from her Tsawwassen home. After obtaining a science degree in physics and geology from the University of Exeter (England) in l973, Anne applied for work as a geophysicist in Greenland.

“Even though I [had] a good degree and did better than the guys,” says Anne, “I was told ‘no way’ will they take a woman to Greenland!”

Instead, Anne became a science teacher while her husband, Len, who obtained a similar degree, was employed as a geophysicist and then an engineer. Len’s work led them to Calgary in l98l, followed by a stint in New Guinea. The couple finally arrived in Tsawwassen in l988.

“I feel settled here,” says Anne. “I’ve 30

got a lot of friends here, especially in the naturalists group. But, if my children were somewhere else, that [could] shift me away.”

Tsawwassen is a better place because of Anne. In addition to a private math tutoring business, she is a community activist, a renowned birder and Delta naturalist, a multi-award recipient, including the prestigious Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award for nature conservation, and now writer and publisher.

Anne clarifies the difference between a naturalist and naturist. Anybody who likes nature is a naturalist, she says. A naturist removes his or her clothing outdoors. “I don’t go nude,” she jokes.

The seeds for A Nature Guide to Boundary Bay were sown in l992 when Anne and many others, involved in the Boundary Bay Conservation Society, “endlessly tried to convince people to

keep habitat. [There was] so much lack of awareness among people making the decisions,” says Anne. To help educate them, she wrote a 25-page booklet, Ours to Preserve. “This was not enough,” says Anne, who has now written a fulllength book.

Anne’s 50th year was a turning point in her life. While she started to gather information for her book, a close friend, also 50, died suddenly.

“This profoundly affected me,” says Anne, “and made me think about life differently. Marci’s death made me get on with it.”

“I felt I needed to do something to protect the Boundary Bay area. I wanted an achievement I would appreciate, and to leave a legacy for those after me. I wanted to do this while my parents were alive,” she says. “I wanted to prove myself to them.”

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Photo: Len Murray

LEAP INTO THE UNKNOWN

Photo: Len Murray

For the next several years, Anne kept busy. It was a challenge to gather the information, work with American photographer David Blevins, and actually write the book, but she persevered.

Even after she was unable to find a publisher, Anne decided to take a leap of faith and self-publish. She compiled a list of 20 tasks she needed to accomplish, including setting up her own Web site, applying for copyright and finding a printer. Anne was ready.

“Then the biggest challenge,” says Anne, “was making myself go all the way to the end and doing it – getting it out the door. Each item on my list was a new thing for me. Since I didn’t know anything, I learned as I went along.”

Anne admits self-publishing has inherent advantages and disadvantages.

“I enjoyed having complete creative control and being able to promote it on my own,” she says. “But I miss the big ads in the paper you receive with a known publishing company, and not being eligible for grants or support.”

“Not knowing how to get into bookstores and cold-calling were a bit nerveracking at times,” says Anne.

Her stumbling blocks reminded her

of the we-don’t-take-women attitude she encountered in England in the ‘70s.

“I enjoy moral support from my family and husband,” says Anne. “This was crucial to my writing and especially self-publishing. Len never questioned my decision. Today’s computer technology, and support from a Canadian printer enabled me to proceed. It was a huge relief when the book went to the printer.”

“I can do anything now!”

Anne’s initial research amounted to so much material on the Boundary Bay area that she is now working on a companion volume, with a focus on history.

“Writing about wildlife itself is easy,” says Anne. “I’m writing about what I know.”

For Anne, the life of a writer means she never stops thinking about what she’s writing.

“I never switch it off,” she says. “I carry it with me. One of the things I liked about being a teacher was meeting a lot of people and standing and moving around.

“I felt I needed to do something Now I sit at a desk a lot.” to protect the Boundary Bay area.

Anne’s busy life includes leading nature and I wanted an achievement I would science walks and talks appreciate, and to leave a legacy for for children, adults and university students, usuthose after me.” ally on a volunteer basis, – Author Anne Murray although occasionally as a

A Nature Guide to Boundary Bay

By Anne Murray Photographs by David Blevins

promotional event.

As for future plans, Anne hopes to continue writing and looks forward to more travelling.

“I’d love to go to South America and would very much like to see India.”

She ties her holidays in with birding.

“I go somewhere so I can do birding, [or] I bird when I’m somewhere doing something else.”

“I’m never bored,” she says. “I find incredible nature spots everywhere. I can always meet people.”

A Nature Guide to Boundary Bay is available in local, independent bookstores around Lower Mainland, Victoria and the Gulf Islands and in selected stores, like Mountain Equipment Co-op and Wild Birds Unlimited. To purchase online or for a list of retailers, go to www.natureguidesbc.com SL

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Just Rambling

BY GIPP FORSTER

REFLECTIONS ON THE PAST

I

’ve always been a handyman. I said those six words aloud as I wrote them – sending my wife into gales of hysterical laughter! I am aware that genius is rarely appreciated, so I will ignore her.

As mentioned, I have always been a handyman. If anything in or around the house goes awry, I am there! I am handy. I can’t, as a rule, fix it, but even my wife has to admit I’m handy.

Recently, an annoying squeak developed in our front door. And as always, I was on the alert and prepared.

My tool belt was laid out in the shed, ready for immediate use. I strapped it on and did my inventory. Screwdriver, check. Hammer, check. Pipe wrench, check. Monkey wrench, check. Pistol, check. (That’s for pests like mice or rats or house guests who stay too long!) The flashlight was there, as was the levelpliers and a rolled up copy of Senior Living.

I was loaded and ready for bear.

What door could stand up against such preparedness? I felt like Wyatt Earp on the way to the O.K. Corral! When I arrived at my destination, however, my show-off wife had gone and put a drop of oil on the hinge, which of course, immediately cancelled my mission of “handiness,” and left me with an unfired tool belt.

I left the tool belt on, though, and did a tour outside and around my house so my neighbours would know I was a handyman.

After an hour or so, the tool belt felt heavy. And on close examination, I discovered it was bruising my hips. So, I took it back to the shed and laid it out 32

neatly in preparation for the next emergency.

My wife’s reluctance to recognize my “handiness” irritates me at times.

Our carpenter-builder, electrician and plumber not only recognize me as a handyman, they admire and praise my work. Every time I build something or join something or tighten something or take something apart, at least one of them, without fail, shows up to inspect my work!

They shake their head in admiration and say: “Oh wow! This is unbelievable.” They stare at my work for two or three minutes, then they look at my wife with wide eyes and say: “Can you believe this? This is incredible! How can one man do all this?”

But she won’t even take the word of a professional. And yet it’s always she who calls one of them and says: “Come and see what he’s done now!” (Talk about mixed signals).

At any rate, I blush under their praise and definitely feel like part of their fraternity.

A while ago, our little radio in the kitchen suddenly stopped working. But before I could reach my tool belt, my wife was out the door and half a block away clutching the little radio in her arm like a football. For a lady nearing 70, she sure can run fast!

Out in our other shed - the one we call the cold shed because it’s unheated – there are all kinds of things waiting to be fixed: a lawn mower, a waffle iron, a 25-foot heavy-duty extension cord, a toaster, a broken chair and an eight-track player. There are many other things too.

Only one problem – the door is pad-

Photo: Krystle Wiseman

HANDYMAN

locked! My wife had the key because she was the one who installed the padlock, but she says she can’t remember where she put it. She says not to worry, though, she plans to look for it in a few months when she’s not so busy.

She’s repeated that phrase for over a year and a half now. Oh well! There’s plenty around here that needs fixing in the meantime. My chair has sprung because it lost a spring. The refrigerator makes a funny sound and there’s that drip from the kitchen faucet.

There’s the kitchen radio too, although my wife says she can’t remember where she put it - just like the key!

Oh yeah! Lots to do for a handyman.

Even as I write this, the light bulb in the living room lamp burned out. Well, I better put my tool belt on and change it.

I wonder if my wife realizes how lucky she is to have me?

SL Probably not.

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Photo: Lynne Kelman

EARLY MORNING ON COLEBROOK ROAD, SURREY BC

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