VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND OCTOBER 2007
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SCOOTER NATION
Saving the environment ...and money
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Other publications by Stratis Publishing:
• Senior Living (Vancouver Island) • Senior Lifestyle: A Housing Guide for Vancouver Island
2 50th High School Reunion Alan Hedley contemplates the past ...and the future.
Publisher
Barbara Risto
4 The Mystery of Billy Miner
Editor
Canada’s first train robber was also a local hero to the everyman.
Bobbie Jo Sheriff editor@seniorlivingmag.com
6 Travels with Ty
Advertising Manager
Lynne Kelman muses about her favourite fair-weather mode of transportation.
Barry Risto 604-807-8208 Head Office 250-479-4705 Contact Information – Head Office
8 Biplanes to Passenger Jets
Senior Living Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1
Bill Marr spent a lifetime in the clouds.
10 Gypsies At Heart
Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808
Irene and Rick Butler have trekked through 49 countries and they’re still on the move.
E-mail office@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com
postage and handling) for 10 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 (10 issues per year). Senior Living is the trademark of Stratis Publishing Ltd. ISSN 1911-6373 (Print) ISSN 1991-6381 (Online)
Cover Photo: Scooter rider Lynne Kelman hits the open road and connects with nature and other riders. Story page 6. Photo: Ron Kelman
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13 Between Friends by Doreen Barber
23 Ask Goldie by Goldie Carlow
32 Reflections: Then & Now by Gipp Forster
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OCTOBER 2007
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50th High School Reunion Looking Back and Forward
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ing life’s great adventure, most of us thought we had finally figured out how things work. In other words, we had become our parents. And we had fun too! As well as crisscrossing our home and native land, we hitchhiked around Europe, cruised through the Panama Canal, waited for Deng Xiaoping to open the door, and we even bungee jumped over Victoria Falls in Africa. Now here we are, 50 years later, being asked to reflect upon our journey. “What were the highlights?” “What were the best and worst memories?” And most significantly, “What are we doing now?” Although a few of us are still employed, most of us are “retired” – an interesting word. It means, “to withdraw, go away, or remove oneself,” “to withdraw from worldly matters or the company of others.” Is this what we are doing? Is this what we want to do? While there were many signposts when we began life’s adventure telling us where we were, where we were going, and where we should have been going, there are no such markers at this stage in our lives. It is up to us to figure out what to do next. So, what are we doing now? Our most consistent response is “Having fun with and enjoying our grandchildren,” and it seems we have plenty of them, the most being 13. Although not in the Guinness Book (97 is the record), that’s still plenty! With our grandchildren, we do not have to help them try “to figure out
Photo: Darby Carswell
BY ALAN HEDLEY
ast June, I attended the 50th reunion of Prince of Wales High School (formerly located at 25th & Marguerite). After the initial shock of realizing how long ago I last saw some of my classmates, I had a great time. Prior to the reunion, the organizing committee sent us questionnaires asking about “the good old days,” what we did after graduation, and what we are doing now. After the reunion, the committee gave everyone a copy of the 41 responses it received. Below is my interpretation of these responses, paying particular attention to what we are doing now - half a century later! Fifty-odd years ago, we set out on the most important journey of our lives - a journey of self-discovery. At the time, although we did not know where our paths would lead, we were advised to follow signposts along the way: graduation, career, love, marriage, and family. In a way, we were pioneers; we didn’t think anyone had been down this path before, certainly not our parents, who must have been hatched as full-grown adults. They obviously didn’t know what we were going through or the difficulties we experienced. Instead, we sought counsel and consolation from each other, sometimes forming lifelong friendships in the process. Little did we realize at the time that these bonds were an extremely significant part of the puzzle we were trying to figure out: How to connect with one another and with the larger society? Upon graduation from high school, many of us signed up for further instruction in “charting the way” before heading off to become doctors, lawyers, merchants, chiefs, and starting our own families. Though we all experienced many trials and tribulations dur-
what to do when I grow up,” we can grow with them: “I’m enjoying learning and exploring the world with them. Such great teachers and humorists they are!” They are our true “mentors” – still full of the wonder and awe most of us have largely lost along the way. With them, we can regain at least a part of those “wonderful innocent times.” And here’s a piece of advice one classmate offered: “Try something new every year.” We have plenty of time and few restrictions, so we may engage the world on our terms. As former President Jimmy Carter recommends in his book on The Virtues of Aging, “The bottom line is to take on almost any tasks that are interesting and challenging – the more the better.” Our journey of self-discovery, begun so many years ago, is not over until we reach our final destination. Rather than dwell on when our journey will end, why not truly enjoy ourselves along the way? The word for “retirement” in SL Spanish is “jubilación!”
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THE FAMILY CAREGIVER
When the Person You Care for Refuses Help
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eeting the needs of the person you are caring for can be difficult. At times, as a family caregiver, it may be necessary to bring in others to help “share the care.” This necessity may be met with resistance from care recipients, who do not want someone else caring for them or do not want “strangers” in their homes. It is important to talk with your family member and adhere to his or her wishes. Remember, unless people experience some cognitive difficulty, they are still responsible for making decisions about their lives. They may make decisions you wouldn’t make, but it is their choice. This can be difficult for a caregiver when some relief is needed or when there are safety concerns. Developing empathy for care recipients’ situations and why they might be resisting help can be an important first step. It is often difficult for people to accept help because it means having to acknowledge illness or aging, and the physical and cognitive changes that accompany it. Family members requiring outside help are forced to recognize their loss of independence, along with their loss of privacy. Imagine what it would be like to depend on a stranger or even your own son or daughter to bathe you or help toilet you. By resisting help, people try to deny these changes and the reality of their situation. If the person you are caring for resists help, be patient and keep the following suggestions in mind: • Introduce changes slowly. Give them time to accept the idea that they are now unable to do some things for themselves.
BY BARBARA SMALL
• Offer a trial period. They may be willing to try home support for two months, if they know they can change their minds later. • Sometimes people are more willing to accept in-home help if it is presented as being for the caregiver, for instance, someone to help clean the house. • Prepare yourself by learning about the services available and how to access them so you have this information handy when needed. • Regular contact and reassurance that you are supporting your family member’s right to autonomy can go a long way to dealing more smoothly with an emergency when it arises. • If a choice seems silly or unimportant to you, try to see why it may be important to your family member. Listen to their concerns and validate them. • If they make choices that seem dangerous, try to negotiate possible solutions. Arrange for someone to take walks with them, if they are unsafe by themselves. • Involve a third-party, a trusted professional (physician, minister) or family friend, who can help mediate discussions. SL
Next month: When Asking for Help is Hard Barbara Small is Program Development Coordinator for Family Caregivers’ Network Society.
• Assure them they have a say in decisions about their care. You wouldn’t want someone to make all of your decisions without consulting you.
OCTOBER 2007
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THE MYSTERY oF BILLY MINER BY DALE AND ARcHIE MILLER
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t times, hearts and imaginations are captured more by those who break the rules than by those who abide by them. That is especially true if the lawbreaker seems gentle and caring, or has a valid reason for his lawbreaking that somehow resonates or tugs at heartstrings. And, if there is some degree of mystery surrounding that person, so that details may be added or facts interpreted differently, then that individual can quickly become larger than life. One of those individuals was Billy Miner, horse thief, stagecoach robber and leader of Canada’s first train robbery. He is referred to variously as: “the gentleman bandit,” “a spirited rogue” and “a natural born leader.” At his death in September 1913 in Milledgeville, Georgia, the Atlanta Journal carried a fourcolumn wide photograph and two stories which described him as, “A kindly, lovable old man, whose thoughts were humorous, whose manner was that of one who was a friend to all humankind... the most courtly, the most kindly spoken, the most venerable man... one whom they all regard with affection and something of esteem.” Peter Grauer, author of the recently released, self-published book, Interred with Their Bones – Bill Miner in Canada 1903-1907, attempts to explain the phenomenon. “Bill Miner’s status as a legend is partly due to his impact on people and the stories he engendered... he cut a flamboyant figure... he spent freely, flashed around $100 and $1,000 bills and boasted that his pistols would protect him from theft.” “You don’t ride around Kamloops on a beautiful thoroughbred racehorse sitting in a beautiful red leather saddle without wanting to attract attention,” says Grauer. “He told stories, wrote letters and was very generous with his money. He could afford to. He stole all his money.” And, if Billy was popular before, robbing the CPR made him a true hero to ranchers and settlers, alike, who believed 4
the railroad was determined to charge exorbitant prices to its customers. Billy Miner, who carried out the only two train robberies in Canada, may have been unsuccessful, but Westerners thought he had the right idea. The line frequently quoted was, “Oh, Bill Miner’s not so bad, he only robs the CPR once every two years, the CPR robs us all every day.” Billy Miner has been the subject of several books, songs, a feature film and countless newspaper and magazine articles. There are pubs, saloons, hotels and musical revues named for him from British Columbia to Fort Worth, Texas. The city of Mission is described as “a small city in the heart of the Fraser Valley with a rich history, including being the site of Canada’s first train robbery by the notorious Billy Miner in 1904.” At the Pen Café and Bistro, operating in one of the two buildings that remain of the BC Penitentiary in New Westminster, patrons can even indulge in one of several Billy Miner Eggs Benedicts for breakfast. So, who was this man? The facts are not easy to pin down. His birth is recorded as 1842, 1843 or 1847. He claimed at different times, that he was born in Canada, Ohio and California, but most records list Jackson or Bowling Green, Kentucky. He used a series of names inero h c Ar lo ab cluding William A. Morgan, WilP : on ati str lI lu liam Anderson, George Anderson, and George Edwards, but he is most frequently referred to as William A. or Billy Miner. Even in his death, facts seem elusive – his grave marker incorrectly shows his death as 1914 rather than the proper year of 1913. Some dates cannot be argued. On April 5, 1866, Billy Miner began the first of several terms in San Quentin. He escaped, was re-captured and punished many times until finally released in 1901. But by then, the world he knew had changed. Stagecoaches weren’t around anymore, so he turned to the next best target – trains. On September 10, 1904, Billy Miner took part in the first train robbery in Canada, gleaning money and gold as well as bonds
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and securities. In May of 1906, Miner was involved in Canada’s only other train robbery, at Ducks on the South Thompson River. On June 1, 1906, Miner, captured near Douglas Lake, was sentenced to life imprisonment and delivered the next day to the B.C. Penitentiary in New Westminster. He escaped, along with three other inmates, who were immediately caught, in August 1907 – Billy disappeared. That escape and the subsequent adventures of Billy Miner are the stuff of legend. There are almost as many stories as there are those willing to listen. His adventures led him eventually to robbing a Southern Railway train in Georgia in February 1911 culminating in his final conviction, imprisonment, escapes and re-imprisonments, and eventually, his death in 1913 at age 66. The most recent account of Billy Miner’s time in Canada, 100 years ago, is described as “the last word on Bill Miner and the four years he spent in Canada.” Given the romantic appeal of Billy Miner, it is more likely that this book, Interred With Their Bones is actually the latest word, not the last. However, it contains a wealth of information and provides information previously unavailable to the reading public. Details can be found at www.billminer.ca Given Miner’s fascination with a good story, it’s a fair bet he would have been one of the first SL in line to get a copy.
Your experts in senior housing options Home to Home is a senior housing advisory service providing important consultation and advice regarding senior living options. Our goal, for our clients, is to facilitate smooth transitions into senior homes that meet retirement needs, so that more time can be spent with loved ones. Call now to let us help you with our personalized service. T: 604.739.8080 E: info@home-to-home.ca www.home-to-home.ca
Archie and Dale Miller do historical research, presentations and writing in New Westminster.
JULY 2007 VANCOUVER ISLAND
Housing Guide for Seniors Up-to-date listings of senior housing facilities throughout Vancouver Island, including Independent/Supportive Living, Assisted Living and Residential Care. This guide is an indispensable resource to:
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Senior Lifestyles can be ordered direct from our office. Please mail a cheque for $5.30, along with your name and address, to Senior Living magazine, 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1. We will mail you a copy of this resourceful housing guide upon receipt of payment. OCTOBER 2007
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TRAVELS WITH TY BY LYNNE R. KELMAN
Photo: Ron Kelman
run and insure it with ICBC. Insurance rates are affordable, but do not allow for highway driving. Not a problem since these machines are meant primarily for tooling around town and for shorter distances. I have discovered more side roads, country roads and back roads since having my scooter, and I love the feel of the wind in my “helmet” and the sun on my face. Think Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. The electric drive means I can start and go, and I have storage space under my seat and a box on the back in which to carry a myriad of things, including plants, which I transport back and forth to my allotment garden. One neighbour had us in fits of laughter one afternoon when he described seeing me driving through the gates of our townhouse with what looked like sunflowers growing out of my head. Of course, I had my storage box loaded with newly purchased plants from the local nursery, and the tall flower heads bobbed behind me. One of the cool things about being a “bike” owner involves acceptance in a private kind of club. Bike owners nod and raise a hand in acknowledgement when passing each other on the road, and I get a kick when big, burly Harley drivers nod as they drive past me. I go home and tell my husband with a huge grin on my face. How cool! I bought the scooter because I started talking about motorbikes, and frightening the life out of my poor husband who said, “we’ll go out and look at a scooter to start with,” thinking that would cure my obsession. Many miles later, I must admit, although I love my Vespa, the urge for more power is still in my mind. I leaf through motorcycle magazines and dream of a Honda Goldwing, but at five feet nothing, I know I have to lower my sights to smaller machines. People often stop me at the local mall with questions about my scooter, and I have noticed in White Rock, where I live, there are many new scooter owners. Many of these folks are people like me, recently retired, wanting to enjoy a newfound freedom. On summer evenings, when the heat of the day has cooled, there is nothing more satisfying than jumping on the bike and taking a slow ride by the beach and out towards the valley. I pack my camera and head off, stopping to say hello to cows and llamas on the way. How many of us drive to and fro in our cars, not stopping to enjoy the pleasures of the quickly disappearing countryside?
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ou see them here, you see them there, those little “wasps” are everywhere. I’m talking about scooters, the two-wheeled variety. First designed and manufactured in postwar Italy, Vespas (wasp in Italian) quickly became one of Europe’s favourite, economical methods of transport. Now, with escalating gasoline prices and environmental consciousness, they’ve taken off in Canada, albeit on a smaller scale. The more visible they become, the more popularity they gain. As a young college girl in Britain, I rode passenger on a girlfriend’s Vespa, and dreamed of owning one ever since. Time passed, but I am now the proud owner of a bright, shiny, red Piaggio Typhoon. I call it Ty for short. Piaggio is the family name of the original and largest manufacturer of Vespas in Europe. But mine is not the classic Vespa, it’s built to resemble a smaller motorbike - a gutsy little machine. Ty is a 50cc single cylinder two-stroke with an electric start. Because of the motor size, I only need my driver’s license to 6
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Photo: Lynn e R. Kelman
Photo: Ron Kelman
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When October’s chill draws in, I feel sad because it’s time to hang up my helmet for the winter months. Fall has seen beautiful colours and my camera catches pumpkin patches and mist hanging over the mountains – what a lovely way to travel.
A word on safety when driving a scooter or motorbike: Get a bike that gives you enough power when driving in traffic and to ride with confidence. You cannot pull off the road every time a lug of a truck comes up behind you. For one, the gravel at the side of the road is dangerous and will encourage your machine to skid. Take one of the motorcycle courses offered to new riders. Although there is no road exam for scooter drivers, you need to know the safety of the road rules. Toronto has introduced a scooter test to new motorists in that city, so Vancouver may not be far behind. Once you get going, be safe and enjoy the thrill of filling up at the gas pump for only $3.50. Maybe we’ll meet on the SL road next spring, I’ll be looking for you.
A Great Christmas Gift! Senior Living is pleased to announce the launch of Gipp Forster’s newest book
Reflections, Rejections, and Other Breakfast Foods Limited Edition!! Reflectio3nsFK,FDUJPOT A collection of Gipp Forster’s st Foods and Other Breakfa Limited Edition
MAGAZINE
& Unpublished Writings A Collection of Published t Gipp Forster by Senior Living Columnis
published columns in Senior Living magazine, with other unpublished writings thrown in for good measure. A unique blend of humor and nostalgia, Gipp’s writings touch your heart in such an irresistible way, you will want to buy not only a copy for yourself, but as a wonderful gift for friends and family members. 128 pages Softcover Published by Senior Living Price: $14.95
Reflections, Rejections & Other Breakfast Foods ORDER FORM Name_______________________________________________ Address_____________________________________________ City_________________________________ Prov ___________ Postal Code_______________ Phone _____________________ Email _______________________________________________ ____ BOOKS @ $14.95 each
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Mail to: Gipp Forster Book Offer c/o Senior Living Box 153, 1581–H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 OCTOBER 2007
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BIPLANES To PASSENGER JETS
Photo: Peter Henderson
BY PETER HENDERSoN
Bill Marr with The Canadian Museum of Flight’s Tiger Moth biplane.
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rowing up in the 1920s near a grass landing strip in Fort Langley, Bill Marr launched his lifelong career. Planes used to land there en route from Vancouver to Chilliwack, and in some planes, two kids could travel in the front seat. That’s how Bill got his first ride in a plane. Bill was determined to fly, but Canada’s peacetime Air Force called for a university degree and, at UBC, Bill played sports too much and studied too little. His intention was to apply at the Royal Air Force in England, but his parents died around that time and the English venture was postponed. Bill remained in the Westminster Regiment militia. In 1939, however, the RCAF had him, along with some 10,000 others, strapped to a bench in Toronto and given all manner of tests. Recruits were divided into aircrew, who would actually fly, and ground staff who would 8
not. Selected as pilot material, Bill went to Saskatoon, where pilots were divided into potential fighter or bomber pilots. “Those with a little ‘Hey Rube’ attitude would go to fighters. A man a little lackadaisical in his flying was acceptable on fighters, those more stable would go on bombers,” says Bill. “The fighter boy could only kill himself, but a bomber pilot had a big crew he might wipe out. Also, bombers cost more.” After 50 hours flying a Tiger Moth biplane – Bill could loop and roll it – he progressed to a twin-engine aircraft. He got his wings in Saskatoon. The whole course expected to go overseas, but, “Apparently, it was Churchill’s decision to hold England with what they had, until we in Canada had plenty of instructors, then sending out a flood of trained pilots. My whole class was held back.” Bill went to Moncton to open the school there. “We had old, beat up, Anson aircraft
no longer operational, some with bullet holes in,” he says. Trenton was the heart of the Empire Air Training Scheme, where instructors developed uniform methods and manuals. “I’d graduated a couple of classes in Moncton, but two weeks later got posted back to Trenton as a staff instructor because I was picked out as being able to fly a little better than the next guy,” says Bill. “I was married by that time and our son was born there.” When Bill was posted to operations in England for three years, however, his wife and son went back to Fort Langley. ”All the high-time instructors going overseas got some choice as to where they might go. If you send someone where he wants to go, he’s happier and does a better job. I had flying time up to about 1,800 hours, which was a lot of time. I said I’d like night fighters.
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German aircraft were trying to infiltrate the stream of British bombers returning from raids, so I did lots of patrolling. We could not fly over enemy territory because of the radar we carried, in case the Germans got a set to examine.” Bill’s expertise was later conspicuous, when he was posted to help a squadron converting from Beaufighters to the very different Mosquito aircraft. “The Beaufighter was a nasty airplane, powerful and heavy, with engines right up beside you,” says Bill. “After going to Rolls-Royce to learn about the Merlin engines powering Mosquitoes, I was given handling notes, and from those I lectured on engine handling, and prepared charts on circuit speeds, landing speeds and other points different from the Beaufighter. With no dual control Mosquitoes, I sat in the cockpit with the pilot on his first trip. No one had any trouble and no one bent an airplane. If you could fly a Tiger Moth, you could fly a Mosquito, you just had to open the throttles gently.” Bill flew over the beaches of Normandy during the D-Day invasion, but by May 1945 was on his way home to join Trans-Canada Airlines. “I first flew the old 14-passenger Lockheed 14s as first officer, flying Vancouver to Lethbridge over the mountains. After a year, they called me into Winnipeg and gave me my captain’s preliminary course, which was a bunch of landings and incidents like engine failures on takeoff,” says Bill. “After three months, they pulled me back to Winnipeg again, where I got captain’s training, to make sure I could really handle the airplane.” “We got rid of the Lockheeds and got Douglas DC-3s. The company said, ‘We’re putting a DC-3 on the Vancouver-Victoria run, with a couple of daily flights to Seattle.’ I preferred flying the West Coast, so I flew there for five years.” Eventually, the airline gave Bill a tie clip for crossing the Gulf of Georgia so often. From there, Bill and his family went back to Toronto, where he flew DC-3s
Flying Officer Bill Marr
for 15 years to Chicago and New York, and to Winnipeg and Montreal. In 1961, Trans-Canada Airlines got its first jet, the Douglas DC-8. Before the Boeing 747s, the DC-8 was the largest airplane in the world. Bill was on them for 16 years, flying Toronto to London and Vienna. In 1970, Bill came to Vancouver, hoping to fly 747s, but senior pilots were claiming them. Bill continued with DC-8s to Hawaii and Japan, but was mostly on the polar route, Vancouver to London. “This was a long haul. In the last few years, I was getting tired because you don’t sleep that well in London with the time change and the noisy hotels.” With just under three years before retirement, Bill was eligible for the 747, but he would have been low man on the totem pole, standing by as extra crew. Accordingly, he was offered 747 wages to stay on DC-8s, saving the company his retraining costs. “I thought long and hard, and stayed on my current equipment, with time off at home and flying the routes I liked to fly.” Bill retired in 1977. From there, he pursued his interest in mining and became involved in a gold mine when the shares were worth 5 cents, then went up to 30 cents. “For years I was busy building a cabin on the Island and paid no attention to mining stocks, but these went up ‘til I had a million dollars worth. I sold at the right time, paid off all my debts and bought a little floatplane. For about six
years, I fished all the lakes in B.C. with two friends in that plane.” When Bill was 82, still flying at the Abbottsford Air Show, he came home to find his wife and daughter waiting for him. He could sense something serious was afoot. “We want your flying license,” they said, “you’re scaring the daylights out of us, still flying. We’re not sleeping, and we want you to quit.” A mid-air collision had recently occurred in which an aircraft had disintegrated. “The chance of a similar happening was a million to one, but after a little under 30,000 hours total flying time, I had to stop.” Today, Bill is involved in a movement to reroute the expected increase in commercial traffic through Langley. He remains very active in the Museum of Flight, which possesses an immaculately kept Tiger Moth biplane. Just like the one Bill cut his teeth on, over 65 SL years ago. Discover the
Adventure
over 250 Adventures await you
www.VIadventures.net OCTOBER 2007
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GYPSIES AT HEART
By IRENE BUTLER
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f we knew more about our ancestry, my husband Rick and I are convinced a good shake of our family trees would result in a fall out of gypsies. Since a young child, I have always felt a strange euphoria when on the road. Rick has forever been magnetically drawn to new trails, but it was not until we retired that we fully realized our vagabond propensities. After becoming a couple 17 years ago while still in the “work-world,” we got away as often as our businesses allowed. Starting out as “tourists,” at some point between excursions, we became “travellers,” and from there, we insidiously morphed into our nomadic existence of today. Looking back on our first vacation together to Hawaii, we recall hauling two humongous suitcases filled with colour co-ordinated shoes for each outfit and a different bathing suit for every day of the week. We have since discovered if we load our backpacks with what we think are necessities, then cut that in half, we have everything we need. An early-on trip to Egypt was a package deal with a planned itinerary. With limited time, it made sense not to invest energy figuring out how to get from site to site, but a few negatives immediately crept in. Our main gripe was wanting more time at a particular site than the group schedule allowed, especially when precious hours were consumed by a commission-eager-driver veering off to a merchant’s shop (not to mention my impulse shopper mode was easily activated). 10 10
Irene and Rick Butler on a hiking excrusion.
In our next travel phase, we would divide a three-week travel package; for instance, our first two weeks through Turkey was a pre-set bus tour, followed by a week in Greece wandering where we pleased. By the time we hit Morocco a few years later, we just bought airline tickets and had not so much as a hotel booked. We were amazed at our evolution. After landing in the capitol, Rabat, we took a bus up into the Rif Mountains, worked our way down to Merzouga for a camel trek on the Sahara, across to the circus town of Marrakech, then up to
Casablanca. Hitting every mosque and kasbah along the way was quite a feat in only three weeks, and we loved the exhilaration and the challenge of going it on our own. The exposure to the culture was so different and real, we knew we would hang up our tourist hats and forever be travellers, letting our trails insouciantly unfold. One day, six years ago, I vividly recollect rubbing my hand over our airline tickets, yet not needing a Genie to appear to grant us our wish – Rick and I were to travel around the world for a year.
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“Now, I realize we can’t stay in as posh accommodations as on a two- or threeweek trip, but if we are going to be tight-wads we may
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as well stay home watching the travel channel.” Rick was not kidding. He proudly produced his calculations of our Canadian cost of living, plus a formulated “budget” based on guidebook pricing for mid-range accommodations, food,
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Several months earlier, we had a chance to sell our business. After ten minutes of deliberation, we said “yes.” This was the true beginning of our gypsy ways, though a full year away was a radical move. After booking our “one-world” tickets that would sweep us away to 12 countries, we questioned whether it was too much too soon. What agency or government bureau would be sniffing us down like bloodhounds for a forgotten procedure in the paper blizzard of closing our companies? And although on-line banking and pre-planning would take care of most personal matters, such as income taxes, property taxes, medical and insurance – what of the forgotten or unanticipated items? Our salvation – one of our sons and his partner willingly took on the responsibility of our mail and let us know about any dangling loose ends. Most important was our family. Would even a molehill problem seem like a mountain from halfway around the world? We devised a rotation phone schedule to keep in touch with our children and grandchildren. E-mail is great, but it was more satisfying to hear their voices and feel from their tone that they were OK. Letting friends know “whaaatz up” was easier. We sent them all a letter announcing our plans. Just when I thought all was settled, Rick threw a crank into the planning. “What if we could travel for a year for the same amount of money as if we stayed home sitting on our couch?” “Are you kidding?” I responded.
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sightseeing and land travel along our loosely defined route; he said he left some wiggle room. Being of the feminine gender, I could intuitively see it would be wise to have some agreed upon modus operandi, which led to the development of Our Travel Mottos: 1) We are not here to suffer. Our comfort range must be adhered to in accommodations and eateries, realizing different cultures have different standards. Budget restrictions are never to be applied to visiting the sights we had come so far to see. (In short – a counterbalance to Rick’s budget.) 2) Expect the unexpected. Don’t get hung up or stressed out on preconceived notions of how things should be from our own societal perspective. If plan “A” doesn’t pan out, go on to plan “B” or “C.” 3) Travel at a leisurely pace. Take rest times between excursions for good health maintenance. 4) Follow the sun. Let spring precede us in countries that have bone-chilling winters. 5) Find ways to have our own breathing space. Solitude needs must be respected so our unaccustomed togetherness 24/7 does not end in divorce court. After trekking that year through Australia, China, Tibet, Nepal, India, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal and France, we came back forever changed. In the vagaries of travel, anonymity washed away how others knew us (work and personal accomplishments), leaving us to continually redefine “who we were” in relation to each culture experienced. Travel is said to be the perfect transitional setting, to let go of old patterns, and to see more clearly where to channel energies during the next segment of life. For us, this has come to mean roaming the planet; milling about ancient ruins, joining in local festivals, having tea with villagers, floating down famous rivers and climbing mountains for breathtaking views. It means living our credence to “trek the globe with gentle footsteps” – to leave behind a favourable impression wherever we go by being ecologically responsible and by adhering to the accepted dress codes and demeanour of a particular culture. It means having the foreignness of a culture fade as we slowly learn to see issues through the eyes of others. Now, five years and 49 countries later, when in one place for too long, our feet itch to find new paths (whether by air, water or land). Our condo in B.C. is a launching pad for our next journey – to wherever our whim takes us for eight or more months of each year. We still chuckle at our transition from days of yore when “roughing it,” meant no room service, to the present, when the only stars we see are in the sky 12
Rick and Irene in Thailand.
(not hotel ratings). Some would say this is regression, but for us the sheer fun and adventure of free-spirited travel more than outweigh the challenges. So, if by chance you hear two mediocre voices ritualistically bellowing Willie Nelson’s, “On the road again, going places that I’ve never been, seeing things that I may never see SL again...” – it may be Rick and I, on the move. Irene and Rick Butler are a writer and photographer team from Richmond, B.C. Since retiring seven years ago, they have trekked through 49 countries, interspersed with visits to their five sons and their families across Canada.
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Between Friends THOUGHTS AND ATTITUDES
By Doreen Barber
“Watch your thoughts; they become words, Watch your words; they become actions. Watch you actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.”
are, good and bad. But where you go from here is up to you. I believe that way too often what we find ourselves doing in our ur minds and thoughts play an important and lives is the product of powerful role in our lives, though we spend negative momentum, little time analyzing their role and where they the product of our life take us. We allow our thoughts to wander, which can lead chain linking our past us into areas that affect our body and its chemistry. Chemi- into our present and cal changes occur when we have pleasant, happy thoughts our future,” says Dr. or negative, disturbing thoughts. Phil McGraw. Remunerating past grievances, pain or hurts can cause Our thoughts lead us, and the result of this is our physichanges in our personality and the very psychological cal bodies following suit. Our physical bodies cannot lead skin we live in. First, we need to realize we all have such by their own volition. We follow our perimeters or boundthoughts, and what we do with them aries of truth, as we know them. is of importance. Becoming aware Our attitudes define our inner be“An optimist thinks that of our negative thoughts, and then ings, and this is what the people in this is the best possible replacing them, is the first step. Beour lives see outwardly. Our actions ing caught in a traffic jam or a long speak loudly and point back to our world. A pessimist fears line at the supermarket can cause a inner dialogue. Our thoughts are that this is true.” strong emotional reaction when we born out of past experiences, conare in a hurry. This would be the clusions from decisions we have time to practise replacement thoughts. Perhaps thinking made, principles and beliefs handed down from generation about the people who are holding us up with thoughts such to generation. We need to ask ourselves, “What is my as, “I wish each one here good health and happiness and truth?” Having done that, watch for a pattern to emerge. At achievement.” You may want to take this a step further by times, our inner truth screams out to us, and often we fail having thoughts of empathy, altruism, unselfishness and to listen. Are you listening? acceptance. Spent energy on unconstructive and negativ- Patient: I’m worried. I keep thinking I’m a pair of curtains. ity send us on a downward spiral. “It got you where you Psychiatrist: Stop worrying and pull yourself together. SL
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PLANNED GIVING T
oday, many different types of Planned Giving vehicles exist. With recent tax changes, planned giving can now be utilized by anyone who is philanthropically inclined. The key to understanding planned giving is to seek the appropriate professional advice in order to structure these gifts properly. The actual “How Tos” of planned giving are detailed and specific to each case. These financial instruments are intended to be part of an overall financial and estate plan, fitting into the philanthropic objectives of the donor, while maximizing tax and other financial benefits. The list of planned gifts is long, so leaving a legacy may be more within reach than many believe. Here are some of the more common gifts: Gifts of Listed Securities. Such as a stock portfolio, mutual fund or segregated fund. Newer rules allow donors to enjoy a tax reduction today, with the resulting tax credit possibly offsetting other income tax. For example, a mutual fund portfolio that has appreciated, and has a $50,000 capital gain would trigger $25,000 in reportable gain if sold and the cash subsequently gifted to charity. However, under the new rules, transferring the investment intact, would result in that same $50,000 capital gain being reduced by half again, triggering only 14 14
pay, as well as on any cash value that may have built up in the policy. Depending on your specific situation, both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Working with a qualified insurance advisor will help in making the right choice.
$12,500 in reportable gain. Along with the tax receipt issued for the full market value of the mutual funds to begin with, no matter what your tax rate is, this could translate into significant savings. Proper planning is necessary to make sure the mutual funds can indeed be given away, and that the full credit of the donation receipt can be utilized. Gifts of Life Insurance, new or existing policies. This is one of the more affordable means for leaving a substantial gift to charity. There are certain nuisances you need to be careful of, depending on when you actually make the gift and when you want the tax credit. Naming a charity as the beneficiary only of your insurance policy means the corresponding tax credit for 100% of the proceeds gifted, will be triggered upon your death, when the gift is actually made. Naming the charity as beneficiary and owner of your policy today means the gift is made today, and the corresponding tax credits are applied to any future premiums you
Gift Annuity. This promises not only a gift of cash to the charity today, but also a steady stream of guaranteed income for the donor. This type of planned gift is more attractive for the 70+ donors, as the older they are, the higher the income is. Given the guarantees the donor receives up front, this option can be an attractive alternative to GICs for some philanthropic investors. Structured properly alongside an insurance contract (referred to as a Gift Plus Annuity), this option could provide more annual income than a standard GIC, and still leave an inheritance for the donor’s family. Gifts of RRIFs. This is a relatively new Planned Giving vehicle, since the tax rules allowing a charity to be the beneficiary of your unused RRIF are now an option. You would choose to leave whatever you don’t use from your RRIF to your favourite charity. The proceeds are then redeemed upon your death (or that of your spouse, if you predecease them), and paid entirely to the charity. Your income for the year of death will still include the full taxable amount of that RRIF, but
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the tax credit your estate receives from the charitable donation could offset the tax owing on the RRIF, effectively wiping out the tax bill on the unused RRIF. Some donors find this very satisfying. Again, through careful planning in the overall estate plan, some people are able to gift the RRIF to charity, and replace that amount in their estate through life insurance in order to leave a corresponding tax-free amount to the family as well. There are many more planned giving vehicles than mentioned here, such as: gifts of real estate, cultural property, tangible personal property, charitable remainder trusts, gifts of residual interest and, of course, gifts of outright cash. Although cash is still the simplest and most common method of giving, it’s not necessarily the best way to give larger amounts offered by some of the planned gifts mentioned in this article. It’s exciting to know that an increasing number of people will be able to take part in planned giving. But, the word “planned� is appropriate and means that anyone who considers this as an option or as an addition to existing charitable goals, be careful in their choices and seek the necessary advice. A good place to start may be to ask your advisors if they are members of The Canadian Association of Gift Planners. It is the only association in Canada that brings together charities and allied professionals who, working together, enSL hance philanthropy and take it to a whole new level.
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Contact our Planned Giving Coordinator to ďŹ nd a representative in your area bcplannedgiving@can.salvationarmy.org Phone: 604-299-3908 Ext 343 bc.SalvationArmy.ca Toll-free:"# ,UNG !SSOCIATION PDF 01-877-469-4438
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GIVING NoW oR LATER D
onors who believe in a cause enough to be monthly donors are also those most likely to consider leaving a bequest in their Will. It’s easier to bond with an organization because of the work and benefits one sees coming out of it. Often the monthly donation takes the form of a pre-authorized monthly debit from one’s bank account. You don’t have to write cheques or think every month where you want to spend your charity dollars. Once set up, the donation usually carries on month after month, year after year, until such time as you notify the organization that you wish to make a change or withdraw
Keep BC Wild at Heart
Contact Chloe O’Loughlin, Executive Director for more information at 604-685-7445
410-698 Seymour Street Vancouver, BC V6B 3K6 www.cpawsbc.org
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your monthly commitment. Research shows that people who leave bequests are not necessarily the wealthiest people. Instead, they are loyal contributors who have given regular small amounts over a period of many years – in other words, the monthly donor. Bequests in a Will can involve a significant lump sum of money, or the donation of some property or other investment. Non-profit organizations truly appreciate the contributions they get from this source, but monthly donations are still the life-blood of charities. Having a long-running monthly donation program stabilizes the day-to-day operations and allows for greater continuity year to year. Large bequests are often used for one-time large projects, like property investments, equipment purchases, building projects, and the start of research programs. Donating monthly, or frequently, rather than in one bequest, helps you get to know that organization, who its people are, how it operates, the work it does, the people it reaches and the services it provides. There are often opportunities to volunteer to get an insider’s look at the operation, or board positions where you can have a hand in the decision-making and future plans of the organization, incorporating your interests and goals with those of other participating members. In Canada, about $1 trillion will be transferred over the next 10 or so years to the next generation. As these transfers are made, charitable organizations will be among those considered as recipients for some of this money. As people retired, annual cash flow may decrease because they are no lon-
ger earning a regular pay cheque, but often their donations stay the same, especially if the donation amount has been of a manageable amount given on a regular basis. A habit started and developed over a period of years usually remains a habit. Donors see no reason to end their support and will often choose to carry on at the level they have established. Emotional ties to an organization is one of the strongest reasons why people continue donating year after year. As long as they are kept informed regularly about what the charity is doing, how it is benefiting the community and using their donated dollars wisely, donors are loyal to the very end – making their most beloved charities the recipients of larger bequests in their Wills. Knowing you won’t live forever may be a reason to put a bequest to a charity of your choosing in your Will, but realizing you can make a difference right now by making monthly donations can be just as meaningful. Plan to do both. Contact the charities that appeal most to you. Find out more about what they do and where your charitable dollars will be used. You can also contact an umbrella organization that oversees donations to a number of different charities (like the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation, Victoria Foundation or Vancouver Foundation). Not only can they help you choose a suitable charity, but if there’s a cause you feel strongly about that isn’t supported by a current charity, they can help you establish a trust, fund SL or bursary for this purpose. §§§ Vancouver Foundation 604-688-2204 Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation 250-370-5664 Victoria Foundation 250-381-5532
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Wishes As Unique As The Children Who Dream Them. For almost twenty-five years now, Make-A-Wish® has made over 1,000 dreams come true for children, 317 years old, who are coping with a life-threatening illness. Wishes are as unique as the children who dream them. Meeting Mickey Mouse, kissing a dolphin, enjoying computer games, being a model for a day or traveling to a far away place….these are some of the exciting wishes that we’ve made come true with the help of our outstanding donors. When a child experiences a life-threatening illness, their world turns upside down. Trips to the hospital for tests and treatment suddenly replace carefree time spent playing with friends and family. The anxiety and uncertainty for a family can be devastating. Having a wish gives everyone a break and allows them time to be together, focused on something positive and fun….just like it used to be.
Emily, age 6, on her Wish to Disney World. Emily and her family had battled her brain tumour for the past year and when a break in treatments allowed Emily to wish, her wish was to go to the magical kingdom of Disney World, where for an incredible week, Emily and her family got to forget that she was sick and experience the Joy that the power of a wish provides.
“For an incredible week, we forgot our son was sick” explained one wish mother after returning from a fun filled, all expenses paid week in Florida to visit Walt Disney World. Our goal is to make every wish magical with the help of our generous corporate partners and our dedicated team of volunteers who help us grant wishes. Make-A-Wish receives no government funding. Instead, we rely on the generosity of individuals, businesses, third party events, grants, foundations and bequests to make the magic happen. Thank you for thinking of Make-A-Wish as part of your planned giving strategy. Share the power of a wish. Please donate today.
Your gift to Make-A-Wish ensures the wishes of tomorrow. Planned giving enables individuals to make a future gift, lasting far beyond their lifetime.
"RI TI SH #OLUMBIA 9UKON #ANAD A
Contact the BC & Yukon Chapter : tel. 604 688 7944 toll-free 1 866 277 9474 email: bcchapter@makeawish.ca web: www.makeawishbc.ca OCTOBER 2007
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GIFT oF NATURE
Photo: Doug compton Ogilvie Ranch.
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o many, the Cariboo region of British Columbia is the ranching and recreational heartland of the province. To scientists and naturalists it is an extraordinary 18 18
ecosystem needing study and protection to ensure it retains its diversity. This would not have surprised Daphne Ogilvie, an avid birder and nature lover.
In the late 1970s, Daphne and Hugh Ogilvie arrived in Cariboo cattle country in search of a new home. Their shared passion for nature and horses drove them to seek out their ideal prop-
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mpton
erty. Their dream came to fruition with her to the Nature Conservancy of Canthe purchase of a ranch approximately ada (NCC). After several visits from 20 km north of Clinton. Their newly NCC staff, Daphne’s mind was made acquired land stretched for over 480 up and a wonderful relationship develacres of wetlands, grasslands, forested oped between her and NCC. The Nature Conservancy of Canada areas and parts of two lakes, comprising excellent habitat for birds and vari- and the BC Conservation Data Centre completed an ecological assessment ous animals. Unfortunately, Hugh and Daphne of the property in 1996 during which enjoyed their new home together for over 70 species of birds were docuonly a few years. Shortly after the mented on the property in a single day. move to Ogilvie Ranch, Hugh’s health Conservation biologists confirmed failed and he passed away in 1992. that the property was not only imporDaphne had to decide whether to move tant for wildlife species, such as the or remain at the ranch alone. She chose rare and beautiful Sandhill Crane, but the latter. The ranch had become part it was also in excellent condition, with evidence of rich biodiversity and a of her. In the two decades she lived on the remarkable lack of invasive plant speproperty, Daphne grew close to the cies – a testament to Daphne’s careland. She fed the finches, blackbirds, ful stewardship of the land. Daphne expressed her wishes for Clark’s NutcrackNCC to own er and jays that Daphne Oglivie and continue came to her front ’s le g a c y to care for porch. As Daphne is one of caring the land at expanded her the end of her knowledge of about the land , lifetime, and wildlife in the a n d s h a NCC agreed to area, she tracked ring it do so. moose, wolverwith others. The help of ines, coyotes, neighbours and wolves, bears friends made and other animals that moved through the area. She watched it possible for Daphne to stay at her for bighorn sheep on the mountain beloved ranch until the time of her slopes. She documented the rhythms passing in the summer of 2006. In a of the seasons and the movements of final act of generosity, Daphne left the the birds and animals in a comprehen- Ogilvie Ranch to the Nature Consersive slide collection, and kept a journal vancy of Canada. Daphne Oglivie’s legacy is one of every day. She continued to explore the backcountry and learned about caring about the land, and sharing it the geography and rich history of the with others. NCC intends to honour region all the way west to the Fraser her memory by continuing to protect River, south to Cache Creek, and north this crucial wildlife habitat, and ensuring that generations to come will to Williams Lake country. Daphne marvelled at the natural be able to visit the ranch and enjoy its wonders on her land, and generously rich natural heritage. Please consult your tax advisor for shared these discoveries with friends and wildlife enthusiasts. She wel- tax implications of charitable bequests. comed them all to her home and be- Conservation organizations cannot acloved property. Peter MacAllister was cept all gifts of land. If you wish to a friend, a birder and a frequent visitor leave a gift of land to a conservation to the Ogilvie Ranch. Daphne’s wish organization, please contact the orgawas for the ranch to be preserved for- nization to ensure their ability to look SL after the land in the long term. ever and it was Peter who introduced Hastings Mill Store #
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Veteran Fighter Pilot Gives Wings to others BY MAUREEN BAILEY
H
Photo: Dixie Mac Leod
arry Hardy is a Renaissance man. A grandfather and great-grandfather, this 85-year-old former fighter pilot has made many outstanding contributions to the world. He is considered an expert on endangered species of exotic pheasants; he was the first Canadian to propagate the Pacific Copper Pheasant; he is an inventor, carpenter, writer, author – and the list goes on. A decorated Air Force veteran of the Second World War, Harry maintains a profound knowledge of the technical aspects of Hawker Typhoon bombers, which he flew during the war. Typhoons were one of the most dangerous fighter planes in history. He has a burning desire to make them more widely known for their unique and hazardous role as air support to the army’s infantry on the ground. Deep bonding between man and machine is understandable when the mission is to divebomb straight down from as high as 8,000 feet to 6,000 feet at speeds of up to 525 mph, with 2,000-pound bombs attached to the sides. “We’d dive from 11,000 to 6,000 feet if there were Germans firing at us,” says Harry. “All the fighting in the war was the excitement in it,” he says. “We [Typhoon pilots] were a squadron. There were eight of us – always eight of us together. You were alone in a plane, just doing what the army below tells you to do.” Today, a walk through Harry’s south Burnaby home, where he lives with his pug Milo, reflects that deep bonding, though it wasn’t always so. His wife, Hazel, told him he could only hang his war treasures in his office. Meanwhile, she decorated the rest of the house with her own handiwork. Some time after her death, down came the macramé and up went three large-framed photos of Typhoons in action, some signed by members of Harry’s 440 Squadron. Two replicas of “Pulverizer II” are displayed on the mantel. In his tiny office, just off the living room, hang framed medals, his wartime decorations. These include the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), Canadian Forces Decoration (CD), and a “caterpillar” bar for surviving bail out of “Pulverizer II,” one of his personal aircraft. Harry has received so many awards and plaques, including a 2005 Lifetime Achievement Award for many years of dedication, service and breeding in Aviculture that they hang like 20
wallpaper on the walls of his office. He has written 50 articles on the technical aspects of aviculture and is now editing and compiling these for publication in book form, expected to come out in the spring of 2008. Harry James Hardy was born in Verdon, Manitoba but raised in Timmins, Ontario where he says, “the air is so cold you can see it.” He joined his father working in the mines, and just one year later, despite the tears and pleas of his mother, at age 19, he was off to war. After the war, he returned to his job in the mines and married Hazel, a Vancouver girl, with whom he raised two daughters. For two years, Harry studied mechanical engineering by correspondence. Hazel became homesick for B.C. so they moved to Burnaby in 1952 where he found work at a machine shop. Later, he was hired by MacMillan Bloedel and spent 32 years designing and building machinery. This career paved the way for satisfying volunteer work he found soon after retirement. The couple enjoyed travelling after Harry’s retirement in 1992, but, after two years, he’d had enough of what he calls the “hippie lifestyle.” He needed to work. He heard an advertisement on the radio asking professionals to volunteer for the Vancouver branch of the Tetra Society of North America, a nonprofit group dedicated to finding practical solutions for the dayto-day challenges faced by disabled people. In 1994, Harry joined Tetra. Since then, he has helped put the
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wind beneath the wings of many people, recently completing his 218th project. “Sometimes the jobs are easy,” he says. Harry counts installing handrails or grab bars in homes among the easy ones. The Hardy home itself bears over 100 feet of handrails he installed after his wife suffered a stroke following hip surgery in 1995. Harry looked after Hazel at home for 10 years prior to her death. They’d been married 61 years. In June 2007, Harry also suffered a stroke. He jokes that the house with its handrails, was already set up for him when he was released from hospital. “I was lucky they got me fast,” he says of the ambulance paramedics who administered the latest life-saving drugs before he even got to the hospital. Two months later, there was little readily apparent evidence of the stroke, though he still had a walker handy on each level of the house in case he needed one, and insisted his speech was a little cumbersome. Also numbered among the easy volunteer jobs Harry has done is installing toilet kits for people (available from MEDIChair and other home health stores); he’s done five of them. These are a favourite with anyone who requires an elevated toilet seat and can’t bear to use or clean one of those messy, unstable “bumpers” that “just don’t sit properly on top of the toilet,” says Harry. The kit includes a round porcelain attachment which, when installed between the base of the toilet and the floor, increases the toilet’s height by approximately nine centimetres. It makes a toilet look and feel more natural, something that is important to disabled people. Many Tetra projects are designed to make accessibility easier in the home or workplace; others enable the disabled to travel more efficiently. Harry has both designed and installed lifts for wheelchairs to be raised into vans, and even one to lift a folded wheelchair into the trunk of a car. Adaptations he makes to retired bus seats make travel by automobile much more enjoyable for people with special physical needs. When a man with a working dog wanted to be able to give his dog exercise chasing a tennis ball in the park, but couldn’t toss the ball, Harry designed and built a device that attaches to his wheelchair. A spring, released by activating a switch, catapults the ball up and out to about 63 feet. Now he and his dog can play in the park. Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan, a quadriplegic who is also the brainchild of Tetra, used this same device recently. “I just had to make a little adjustment for the baseball,” says Harry. In July 2007, Sullivan used the catapult to throw the first pitch opening the season for the Vancouver Canadians baseball team at Nat Bailey Stadium. The ball was easily caught in the mitt of catcher Dusty Napoleon. Growing numbers of disabled people are involved in sports today thanks to people like Harry and the Tetra Society. When talking to Harry about the gizmos he’s invented for sports (Harry has a Gizmo Award from Tetra), it is easy to see he has gotten great satisfaction designing devices that have enabled
others to bowl with their classmates, play bocce ball, get on and off exercise machines or head off into the woods on trail riders. One device he is particularly fond of is a kayak paddler he invented for a young woman who only has the use of one arm since a tragic skiing accident. She can now paddle a kayak as well as other kayakers and exercise her disabled arm by resting it atop the paddler at the same time. Harry has put smiles on the faces of many people from young to old in his 13 years with Tetra. His latest and 218th project involved adapting a bicycle for a 10-year-old boy who has difficulty balancing due to disability. “We call them balancing wheels,” says Harry winking. “They don’t like to hear ‘training wheels.’” The bicycle now has sturdy wheels attached alongside the rear wheel for safety. Harry secured a pack behind the seat to hold books and other belongings when he is riding. In 2006, Harry was nominated for and received a British Columbia Community Achievement Award for his work with Tetra and for his contributions to life in the province of B.C. Today, besides editing his own articles for the book he is writing, at home in his backyard, Harry continues to breed and care for over 35 species of birds including beautiful, rare Red Golden and Yellow Golden Pheasants, birds which have their origin in China. For lack of space elsewhere in his home, parts he designed and helped to build of a wooden replica of “Pulverizer II” rest on shelves in his bedroom where Hazel’s piano once stood. He intends to fly with the finished replica to Ottawa this month for a presentation, evidence of his passion to make the Typhoons of the Second World War more widely known. Every month, Harry looks forward to the next Tetra meeting where he will most likely be assigned to help another person who can benefit from his inventions and expertise. A fighter pilot at heart, he is always looking for new ways to give wings to others, whether they are fledgling pheasants or disabled people wanting to live normal lives. SL Maureen Bailey is a freelance writer in Delta, B.C.
Reverse Mortgages & Alternatives The Canadian Dream - to own a home and have a healthy and active retirement. Many seniors are finding their cash flow is not sufficient to met their basic needs but most have built up equity in their home as a savings plan. Releasing equity can increase cash flow. Call or visit www.equityrelease.ca for more information.
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Mortgage Consultants and Strategists Accredited Mortgage Professionals Proud Supporters of the Canadian Dream! OCTOBER 2007
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Visit Senior Living’s Online Bookstore Discover a Selection of Books by Senior Authors and on Topics of Interest to Seniors Reflections, Rejections and Other Breakfast Foods
To Move or Not to Move?
ISBN 978-0-9783948-1-3
A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options If you are a senior who has been wondering lately whether you should consider moving - then this is the book that can help you ask the right questions and find the solution that is right for you. Advice from professionals who are experts in the area of assisting seniors with their relocation questions and concerns. Published by Senior Living October 2007. 128 pages. Softcover. Now selling for $9.95
ISBN 978-0-9783948-0-6
Nude on a Fence
ISBN 978-0-9698170-3-1
by Eliza Hemingway Fourteen short stories about people in compromising situations similar to being caught nude on a fence. Some are humorous, others poignant. Three were previously published, one in Tonto Short Stories, England. The book was a winning finalist for USA Best Books Award 2007. Published 2006. 269 pages. 8.25” x 5.25” Softcover. Price $17.95
by Gipp Forster A collection of Gipp Forster’s published columns in Senior Living magazine, with other unpublished writings thrown in for good measure. A unique blend of humor and nostalgia, Gipp’s writings touch your heart in such an irresistible way, you will want to buy not only a copy for yourself, but as a wonderful gift for friends and family members. 128 pages. Softcover. Published by Senior Living October 2007. Price: $14.95
Gipp Forster’s Collected Ramblings by Gipp Forster A collage of over 150 anecdotes and insightful ruminations on life’s experiences, first aired on C-FAX radio, now provided in print format for your reading enjoyment. “Gipp writes with that light touch that nudges the conscience and the funnybone at the same time.” - Roy Bonisteel. Published 1989. 188 pages. 5.5” x 8.5” Softcover. Book Price $10 ISBN 0-9694240
Nature’s Bounty: Why certain foods are so good for you
ISBN 1-55430-015-0
by Dr. Bala Naidoo A collection of articles on fruits, vegetables, beverages and other miscellaneous topics, covering the latest research on the health benefits of fibre, omega-3 fats, folates, antioxidants and other phytonutrients. It shows how to reduce the risks of heart disease, cancer, type-2 diabetes and obesity by choosing your food carefully. Published 2004. 176 pages. 5.25” x 8” Softcover. Price $21.95
Nature’s Bounty: More about foods for a longer and healthier life
ISBN 1-4196-1140-2
by Dr. Bala Naidoo A collection of articles on fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices and other foods. It illustrates the health benefits of fibre, omega-3 fats, folates and other vitamins, antioxidants and other phytonutrients. It shows how, by choosing your food properly, you can reduce the risks of heart disease, cancer, type-2 diabetes and obesity. Published 2005. 168 pages. 5.25” x 8” Softcover. Price $21.95
CDs Gipp Forster’s Christmas Vol 1 by Gipp Forster An hour-long tapestry of voice and music. For maximum enjoyment we suggest you listen in a room lit only by a crackling fire and a sparkling Christmas tree, while snuggled under a comfy Christmas quilt and sipping from a steamy mug of hot cocoa topped with sweet whipped cream. Gently falling snow optional. CD Price $16 Also available on tape. Tape Price $13
Gipp Forster’s Christmas Vol 2: Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Gipp Forster Another nostalgic and memorable selection of seasonal words written and narrated by Gipp Forster, accompanied by musical selections to enhance your listening experience. If you enjoyed Vol. 1, you will certainly want to add Gipp’s second CD to your Christmas collection. CD Price $16 Not available on tape.
GST and Shipping Costs will apply. Please allow 2 weeks for delivery
Purchase these items online at
www.seniorlivingmag.com 22
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ed
r
r.
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Photo: Jason van der Valk
ASK
Goldie
BY GoLDIE cARLoW, M.ED
Dear Goldie: Now that I am a retired widower and have become a senior, I seem to spend a lot of time reflecting on the mistakes I have made in the past. Some of them were foolish and hurt me as well as others. I would truly like to improve my habits and become a better person. Any advice on where I begin? B.N. Dear B.N.: I think you have already started the process. You are reflecting on the mistakes you have made, and realize you can change. These are two important steps to begin a new lifestyle. Now you can move on to listing the changes you want and deciding how to accomplish them. Finally, list them in a reasonable order and time frame so you can begin. Do not dwell on the past. Look at mistakes as part of your growing process – lessons you learned. Obsession with previous errors can cause you to miss new opportunities. Alexander Pope wisely stated in the 17th century: To err is human, To forgive, divine. Be patient with yourself. Reflect weekly on any slight changes in your attitude and behaviour and reward yourself for each accomplishment. Reading and socializing are a necessary part of the process. Libraries or bookstores offer a wealth of information on how to make changes in your life. Senior Centres introduce new friends and new ideas. Good luck in your life improvement! Dear Goldie: Recently, I unexpectedly inherited some money. At first, the news seemed wonderful, but now it’s causing a family rift. I am a widower in my 70s, live alone, and keep busy reading and gardening. My two sons and daughter visit fairly often. Usually, they encourage me to be independent, but since I came into this money, they interfere in my plans. My wish is to invest half of it for myself and divide the other half among my four grandchildren for their education. My three offspring are insisting I invest it all for myself. This seems selfish. What is your opinion? L.V. Dear L.V.: Congratulations on your good fortune. It sounds like you
have a caring family, too. It is important, however, for you to maintain your independence and decision-making as long as it is safe to do so. Seniors are living longer, and your children may feel it is essential that you use the money for your own security. The assistance of a financial planner may help keep peace in the family. If you give your grandchildren a small amount of support as they begin university, they may be able to help themselves working weekends and holidays in their final years. Many students have to earn their own way. Hopefully, a financial expert will have choices for you to restore peace in your family. 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.
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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 ofďŹ ce@seniorlivingmag.com
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This is a ground-oor 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.
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BBB Better Better Better Better
Business Business Business Business
Bureau Bureau Bureau Bureau
SCAM ALERT
By Lynda Pasacreta
AVOID MOVING MADNESS
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hether moving across the country, across town or across the hall, the act of packing one’s belongings and transporting them to a new location can be time and energy taxing. Researching, locating, co-ordinating and working with relocation and moving companies can be a challenge in the best of circumstances. If you’ve had an unsettling moving experience you are not alone. The Better Business Bureau regularly receives inquiries and complaints from consumers about the challenges faced during their recent move. In 2006, moving companies rated second in the number of complaints received by the Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island. And every year, it seems moving companies fall into the top 10 list of most inquired about types of businesses. Typical moving-related issues include company lateness, lost and damaged goods, over-billing, disputes over the actual weight of goods compared to the estimates, and disagreements over the value of various relocation services provided. The BBB recommends the following considerations before moving: • Start planning your move at least six to eight weeks prior to your targeted moving date. • Determine the type of assistance you need: Do you need someone to help you downsize, clean, pack up your belongings and organize your move? If so, you are probably looking for a company that specializes in relocation services. Or do you just need movers to transport your belongings? • Do some research to get an idea of the variety of services, timelines and costs that might be associated with your move. • Ask friends or neighbours to recommend companies they have been happy with for past moves. • Check out the companies’ Reliability Report with the BBB (visit www.bbbvan.org) • The Canadian Association of Movers has a handy Consumer Checklist for Choosing a Moving Company (www. mover.net). Before hiring a moving or relocation company consider the following tips:
1. Obtain several estimates. Keep in mind that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best when you consider insurance, training and experience. Verify that the cost estimate includes all the items you need assistance with (i.e. donating extra furniture). 2. Always get the estimate and contract in writing. Some moving companies tarnish the industry by using unscrupulous practices such as charging hidden fees or providing a low estimate and then, at delivery, charge more or hold your goods in storage until you pay. Do not sign any contract with sections left blank. Carefully read and understand the contract before signing. 3. Make sure you understand how much insurance the carrier has and what it covers. Ask them to provide you with the insurance company’s name and policy number. You may need to purchase extra insurance to protect your possessions. Find out if the company has WCB insurance to cover any accidents that may occur while workers are on your property. 4. To save on packing charges you may want to pack part of your belongings yourself. Often, if the company packs everything, they are responsible, but if you pack items, you are responsible. Make sure you understand who is responsible for what. This should be outlined on your contract. 5. Stay involved in the process. Ensure you have an inventory of the goods to be moved, and that someone is supervising the loading and unloading of your belongings. Hiring the right people to do the job can relieve much of the stress that comes with moving. So, do your homework well in advance of your move! 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 OCTOBER 2007
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Sharing the Harvest BY BETTY Ho
T
Photo: Betty Ho
ransplanted from WinAll seven women are grandmothnipeg, Ann Mackie disers. Although each brings various covered a kindred soul skills such as grant writing, public when she found herself gardenrelations and administrative skills ing next to Mary Gazetas’ plot in to RFTSP, they all work hands-on Richmond. in the two garden properties. “It’s exactly what I needed in In 2004, the City of Richmond 2000 when I came to Vancouver offered RFTSP the use of threeafter retirement as a family theraquarters of an acre at the end pist with Winnipeg Family Serof Gilbert Road on South Dike, vices, and private practice,” says where different varieties of squash Ann. “With no family other than are grown. The following year, the children, I formed friendships City donated the use of two-and-awith others who share the goal of half acres at Terra Nova Rural Park, producing food.” where they grow radishes, celery, Along with retired City of potatoes, kale, tomatoes, broccoli Richmond employees Jane and berries. The Terra Nova Rural Wheeler and Mary Gazetas, Ann Park site continues to develop in became part of the Richmond stages. It now includes a 30-by-50 Fruit Tree Sharing Project in foot greenhouse where peppers, 2001. With help from the Vantomatoes and other hothouse vegcouver Fruit Tree Project, this etables are grown. Next year, the Sharing Project directors (l to r) Mary Gazecommunity initiative connects group will begin a “Greenhouse tas, Jiff Price, Ann Mackie and Diane Eward. people who have excess fruit on Social Club” and invite active setheir backyard trees with those who have the time and energy to niors to take part in the Sharing Farm. harvest it. The picked fruit is then given to the Richmond Food “The greenhouse will enable seniors to plant and garden at Bank. Interest the first year was so great that London Farms in waist level,” says Jiff. Richmond loaned the project six plots of land to grow organic The paid staff includes two university students, a high school vegetables the following year. The Richmond Fruit Tree Shar- student and a part-time farm manager, who receive remuneraing Project (RFTSP) became a registered non-profit society in tion through Human Resources Development Canada grants. 2002 with five founding directors, three of whom are still ac- One of the university students, Susie Mcmillan, confesses she tive: Ann, Jane and Mary. loves working on the farm – she first volunteered during high “We began on a small scale with picking donated fruit, but school. The students work throughout 14 weeks of spring and because the Richmond community has gotten involved, we are summer, when they till, plant, weed, weed, weed and harvest – devoting most of our time to growing healthy organic food that all by hand and all organic. is given to the Richmond Food Bank,” says Mary. “We’ve been blessed with gifts in kind,” says Ann, “receivUnder the direction of seven volunteer directors, the RFTSP ing such things as seeds, a potting shed, a greenhouse and volhas expanded and partnered with property owners, community unteer labour from corporate sponsors who pay their staff to supporters, food recipients and many, many volunteers. come work for a day as a team building exercise. Since we beAnn says about the Board of Directors, “We call ourselves gan in 2001, we have grown and harvested over 90,000 pounds the ‘Tribe’ and we help each other out.” Diane Eward, another of vegetables – every box of food grown is weighed. About 95 director, agrees. “I feel as if I belong to a tribe. Our relation- per cent of the food is given to the Richmond Food Bank; the ships are close.” Recruited by Jane, Diane joined shortly af- rest is given to community groups.” ter she retired as co-ordinator of the Minoru Seniors Centre Volunteers are always welcome and indeed, made to feel part in Richmond. “I’ve known Jane for over 20 years through our of the team. There are many opportunities to join a picking or work in Richmond. She got married the same year I did and our field gleaning team, or helping at the Sharing Farm. SL children grew up together.” For more information, visit www.richmondfruittree.com Completing the tribe are Joan Glossop, Jiff Price, and Shir- To volunteer, call the Volunteer Information Hotline at 604ley Jaye who joined through their tennis connections with Mary. 270-9874. 26
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N
NEW K BOO
To Move or Not to Move? A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options
To Move or Not to Move?
To Move or Not to Move? A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options
MAGAZINE
Available
October 2007
Published by Senior Living
14.95 Buy it now! REG. PRICE: $
ONLY
$
9.95
If you are a senior who has been wondering lately whether you should consider moving - either because you find the maintenance of your current home more difficult due to diminishing ability or energy, or you simply want a lifestyle that allows you more freedom and less responsibility - then this is the book that can help you ask the right questions and find the solution that is right for you. • What residential options are available? • Define your current situation - What residential option is right for you? • How to research and assess Independent and Assisted Living residences. • What do Independent, Assisted Living and Complex Care facilities have to offer? • How much does it cost to live in an Assisted Living residence? What subsidies are available? • Thinking of moving in with family members? Questions to consider before making your decision. • Are there any other residential options besides Independent, Assisted Living and Complex Care facilities? • If you choose to stay in your own home, what are your options and what should you plan for? • Who can help you decide what you can or cannot afford? • Funding sources available to seniors - tax deductions, housing subsidies, home care subsidies, equipment loan programs, renovation grants, etc. • Selling your home - how to find the right realtor or relocation services to assist your move. • Plan your move - suggestions to make the process easier • Tax implications and/or benefits related to moving • Downsizing - Where do you start? How do you proceed? • Adapting your home to meet your mobility needs - tips and suggestions • Security measures; protecting your home; using medical alarm devices • Hiring home care services; do it yourself or hire an agency? • Legal matters - how to make sure you receive the care you desire should you not be able to communicate due to some incapacitating condition; appointing a trustee to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf. • AND MUCH MORE
Advice from professionals who are experts in the area of assisting seniors with their relocation questions and concerns. A handy reference guide for seniors and their families wrestling with the issues around whether relocation is the best optionThis 128-page book provides helpful, easy to read information and suggestions to help seniors and their families understand the decisions they need to make.
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Mail to: “To Move” Book Offer c/o Senior Living Box 153, 1581–H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Free shipping to British Columbia addresses ONLY. To have book mailed to addresses outside of BC, please call Senior Living 250-479-4705 for shipping costs. Please allow 2 weeks for shipping.
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TASTY Traditions
BY ELLEN NEAL
THANKSGIVING DINNER
TURKEY AND DRESSING
T
rying to impress my mother-in-law was not an easy task. She had given me a white, linen tablecloth that took hours to iron, and because she was there for Thanksgiving dinner, the crease-free tablecloth graced the table. Half of the turkey was carved and neatly laid out on our new platter, the other half sat on the counter for refills. The turnips (a necessity for a proper Thanksgiving dinner) were mashed and buttered and the cranberry sauce was sweetened to perfection. Mashed potatoes were in a bowl, and the gravy, with lumps removed, filled the gravy boat. Steam rose from a bowl of peas and carrots while red tomato juice sparkled in the crystal glasses (a new acquisition) in front of each plate. Pumpkin pie awaited on the counter for our dessert. There was even a small vase with the last rose from the garden as the centrepiece. Our house was small, so we dined in the kitchen. Twoyear-old Garrick sat in his high chair, ready for his “adult” food, while Carla, not quite one, had just finished her baby food; she still held the spoon in her hand to drum on her tray. Everything was ready. We sat with heads bowed, as I held Carla’s hand still, while Grandma said grace. We raised our heads and were about to begin dinner when Carla, with perfect aim, spewed a projectile of vomit all over the dinner table and the white tablecloth. Everything was still, until my husband and I laughed. It was so awful! Grandma Neal looked down at her plate of predigested food and sat pompously pursing her lips in disgust. The more she was “not amused,” the more my husband and I laughed. Dinner was a disaster! Impressing my mother-in-law never seemed to work. I bundled up the whole mess and put it in the sink. For dinner, we ate the other half of the turkey and the pumpkin pie. I threw out the linen tablecloth. 28
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Boil the turkey neck in 2 1/4 cups water When the neck is fully cooked, remove it from the water and push it into the turkey cavity. Add the following to the water: 1/2 cup diced celery 1 cubed apple (core removed) 2 carrots, sliced Cut-up turkey giblets 1 Tbsp lemon juice 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley 1 tsp sage 1 tsp thyme 1/4 tsp oregano 1 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper Raisins or cooked chestnuts (optional) In a fry pan, cook 1/2 cup of diced onion with 1/3 pound of sausage meat, and add this to the liquid portion. When thoroughly mixed, add 4 or 5 slices of bread torn into bite-size portions and 1 cup of uncooked oatmeal. If there is insufficient liquid to moisten the bread, add water. Before spooning the stuffing into the turkey, wipe the cavity and the outside of the turkey with a lemon-soaked cloth. Stuff the mixture into the turkey. To hold it in, tuck a full crust of bread over the cavity. Brush olive oil over the skin then sparingly sprinkle with salt. Place in a roasting pan and cover. Cook at 325F for 20 to 25 minutes per pound. Baste twice approximately 1 1/2 hours into the cooking and an hour later. Uncover an hour before the turkey is done. 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 editor@seniorlivingmag.com or 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 2C1
23/09/2007 12:12:04 PM
Crossword PUZZLE Across
1. Distance 6. Alleviates 11. Rearwards 14. Old tongue 15. Crop 16. Indian title 17. Smooths out 18. Expertise 19. Particle 20. Keepsake 22. Cultivated land 24. Branches 26. Glow 30. Unsound 34. Fleece 35. Determines 36. Galilean town 37. Wind instruments 39. Insulate 40. Child, pre-birth 41. Keenness
Mind GAMES 42. Minnesota city (2,4) 44. Wag 45. Organic compound 46. Single out 48. Regiment 49. Aper 54. (Trademark) a metal model construction set 59. Sheep 60. Coarse 62. Perforated 63. Hideaway 64. Colossus 65. Wipe off 66. New York time, sometimes 67. Hurdle 68. Pauses
Down 1. Slight 2. Trim 3. Speck
4. Film 5. Catches up 6. Laxative (5,5) 7. Large boat 8. Fit 9. Sumerian air god 10. Trade 11. Land mass 12. Decorative loop of braid 13. Projecting point 21. Large plant 23. Spear 25. De-icing tool 26. Stopped dead 27. Roundish divisions 28. Sub (1-4) 29. Booking 31. Religious decree 32. Eskimo 33. Discernment 38. Lament 40. John Gould --------, US poet 43. Impulse 47. Nigerian city 49. Give up 50. Due 51. Shut up 52. Type of television 53. Ballet skirt 55. Nub 56. Unfortunately 57. Gun emplacement 58. Poems 61. Lentil sauce
ANSWERS
OCTOBER 2007
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A Conversation with O
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ing, asked me, ‘Why would you want to leave? You’ve got tenure here, you’ve got a subscription to the Metropolitan Opera, I’ll give you a raise to tempt you to stay.’ “To this day, I cannot say why I decided to take up the offer. I was happy where I was, but I wanted to go to Vancouver. That spring of 1965, I took a train from Montreal to Vancouver for $90, meals included, so I could see Canada.” He laughs, “Coincidentally, it was July 4, 1965, American Independence Day, when I moved into my first
apartment in Vancouver.” It wasn’t until the week before the university opened that the new faculty was allowed to go up to Burnaby Mountain – it was still just a logging road. “It was absolutely exciting to be at the birth of a brand new university!” One of Alan’s favourite discussion topics is the Seniors Program at SFU. “About 10 years ago, I was ‘thrown out’ of the History Department at SFU, only because I turned 65. Then an unexpected thing happened. The university
Photo: Betty Ho
n the first day of class, historian and opera buff Dr. Alan Aberbach faces the stares of his students. “Throughout my life, the start of every semester has been exciting,” says Alan. “You see so many eyes wondering, ‘Is this class going to be any good?’ I want people to like my courses because I love teaching.” His passion and enthusiasm for teaching is so evident that Alan was the first member of Simon Fraser University’s History Department to receive an Excellence in Teaching Award in 1986 – not from his colleagues, but from his students. The award is given only once during a professor’s teaching career. Program Director of the Seniors Program at SFU, the New Jersey-born professor recalls how he came to Canada. During a meeting in 1964 of the American Historical Association in Washington, D.C., he happened upon a room filled with notices for positions available at various universities. He saw a picture of a university being built, but was not looking for a position. Curious, Alan chatted with the chair of the History department. “A couple of months later, I got a call from this fellow, and he asked me, ‘How would I like to be a charter member of the History faculty to teach at this brand new university?’ “The chair of Long Island University, I was teach-Church Labyrinth atwhere St. Paul’s Anglican
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Dr. Alan Aberbach BY BETTY Ho
was looking for someone to take over would challenge and excite the mind. “And you know what? That’s just the senior program, which was rather small. The Dean of Continuing Edu- what our seniors wanted!” Full enrollment cation, at the time, in this fall’s nonColin Yerbury, told “I am touched when credit courses, like me, ‘I want you to In Praise of Pagandevelop a Seniors people come up to ism, New Directions Program and enjoy doing it at the same me to say thank you in the Global PolitiEconomy, Jourtime. I will support for these courses. It’s cal ney of the Questing you 100 per cent.’” Soul and Hot Topic Alan thought it changed my life, and – Current Events in was an interesting hearing that gives me a Global Perspecchallenge, and retive, proves him membered his mothreason to get up in right. The Seniors er, Sydna, who was the mornings.” Program at SFU determined to go to has increased from university after her its early beginnings education had been cut off when she started a family. She of three to four courses 30 years ago, was a pioneer, going to school in her 50s to three credit courses, 20 non-credit courses at the Vancouver campus; five before it was acceptable to do so. “I was at her university graduation non-credit courses at the Surrey camand to see her walking down the aisle pus; and free monthly Saturday forums in her cap and gown just beaming - it at both campuses. Participation is well changed her entire life! She died two over 2,000. In addition, an Outreach Program months before her 90th birthday. I remember the very last phone call provides free DVDs on MulticulturalI got from her. This is how it started, ism, Canadian Identity and Grandpar‘Alan, I’m worried.’ And I said, ‘What enting in the 21st Century to senior cenare you worried about, Mother?’ And tres or organizations throughout B.C. “We offer special seniors courses at she said, ‘I’m worried about what’s happening in Bosnia and Herzegovina.’ the Vancouver campus at Harbour CenI thought to myself, ‘I can’t believe this, tre, especially for those who are just reshe calls me from where she’s living in turning to university for the first time,” Florida because she’s worried about says Alan. “Sometimes seniors like to civil war breaking out in Bosnia.’ Up be in a classroom where the students to the day she died, her mental abilities are predominantly seniors and they feel like they’re with their peers. Both the were unchanged.” Alan saw what education and learn- credit and non-credit courses are exciting did for his mother’s life. This influ- ing because we have people who are enced his decision to offer courses in the coming back, sometimes to take two or lifelong learning seniors program that three degrees!”
An eligible bachelor, Alan has devoted his heart and soul to his work. “Not that I’m opposed to marriage, I think it would have been wonderful to have children. I wonder what could have happened, if I had been married. I’m usually here by 7 a.m. I love what I’m doing. But then, I’m only 75, perhaps when I’m 85 or 90, I might slow down, but I haven’t slowed down yet.” Senior students often share their thoughts and feelings with Alan about their learning. “I am touched when people come up to me to say thank you for these courses. It’s changed my life, and hearing that gives me reason to get up in the mornings. Each day is a great opportunity to be useful. There’s nothing sadder than people who have no excitement, no passion for doing things. I read in the paper where people are working in positions when they are not happy at jobs they don’t like. I’ve been blessed that I have never felt that way.” When professors turn 65, the employment contracts are renewable year by year and so far, the university has asked Alan to stay on. “My enthusiasm comes when I can do things that make life interesting for other people – to do something that is productive, to bring a quality of life to others. That is exciting. It’s a duty, a reSL sponsibility, a passion.”
www.seniors101.ca Vancouver Island retirement guide includes recreation and travel, real estate, investments and health care information. www.seniors101.ca OCTOBER 2007
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Reflections
BY GIPP FoRSTER
THEN & NOW
I
didn’t always need or wear glasses. I don’t need to now unless, of course, I want to see. When I was a kid, some other kids wore glasses and they went through some harassing times! They were called “four eyes,” “specs” and “professor.” So very glad I wasn’t part of the taunted, I joined the side of the taunters! I used to think anyone older than me who wore glasses was intelligent. You could always tell the smart ones by their glasses. Everybody knew that! I didn’t need my first pair of glasses until I was almost 40. So, I wasn’t too bright up ‘til then. I certainly improved after getting glasses though. We must think of glasses as an extra pair of eyes. Good eyes! It would be terrible if we had to get glasses for our glasses. A little while ago, I thought I was going to have to get glasses for my glasses. My vision was getting blurry and hazy – it was difficult to see. I complained to my wife, and she became concerned, too. She took my glasses to examine them and, lo and behold, when I put them on again, I could see clearly. I was elated! “What did you do?” I cried. “This is wonderful! You are a genius, a healer, perhaps even a prophet!” My wife, being a humble person, simply shook her head (almost sadly) and whispered, “I cleaned them,
Einstein.” Then she quietly walked away without further praise. (She calls me Einstein often, which proves just how much smarter I am since I started wearing glasses.) When I buy eyeglasses, I have to buy two pairs. Without an extra pair, how am I going to find my first pair when I misplace them? I tried wearing contact lenses, but I am nearsighted in one eye and farsighted in the other. With my contacts, I could see into the distance but I couldn’t read anything. So, I had to get a pair of reading glasses. Then, I kept losing a contact, so I had to get another pair of glasses to aid in the search for my lost contact. It all became so confusing that for a while I just walked around with my eyes closed. A little boy once told me that he really liked wearing glasses, especially at school. When asked why, he said, “Well, the boys don’t beat me up and the girls don’t try to kiss me.” It works when you are an adult, too! I haven’t been beaten up in years, and girls never try to kiss me. Even if they wanted to, I doubt they could catch me, now that I have a walker. Glasses used to make men seem sissified, at least to guys who didn’t wear them and who had their girlfriends’ names tattooed on their upper arms or
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Photo: Krystle Wiseman
EYEGLASSES
chests – but not anymore. Many people wear glasses. Glasses are in. They’re stylish! Now, guys with tattoos wear them. As mentioned, I have had numerous pairs of glasses, but I’ve never had a tattoo. Just like glasses, tattoos are in too! Even the girls have them. I can’t imagine how, when eventually they become grandmothers or great-grandmothers, they will respond to their grandkids’ or great-grandkids’ request to see their tattoo! A sunrise when they first got it will be a sunset on a sea of relaxed skin when they unveil it to the inquisitive eyes of the future. Their grandkids and great-grandkids may need glasses to see it, but I hope they only need one pair. Now that I think of it, I might get a tattoo so my wife will look at me more as a sailor than a couch potato. I could have a sailboat tattooed on my arm and wear short-sleeved shirts. And when I shake the loose skin on my upper arm, it would look like the sailboat is in a violent storm. It would be impressive – especially if I had my glasses on while I did it. Intelligence and adventure all wrapped up in one package! She’d probably be struck with such admiration, she would be at a loss for words; just like when I gave her that three-way flashlight for her birthday! At any rate, I am going to get my other pair of glasses and watch a little television. Now, where did I put them? SL
SENIOR SENIOR LIVING LIVING VANCOUVER VANCOUVER & & LOWER LOWER MAINLAND MAINLAND
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