Feb 2009 Senior Living Magazine Island Edition by INSPIRED 55+ Lifestyle Magazine

February 2009 TM

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FEBRUARY 2009

CELEBRATING SENIORS IN OUR COMMUNITY

Photo: Enise Olding

FEBRUARY 2009

Don and Bridget Bruneski on the dock of their ﬂoat home.

6 World Citizens

COVER PHOTO: Life-long athlete Don Bruneski contemplates swapping tennis for sailing this summer. Story on page 6. Photo: Enise Olding

World travellers Don and Bridget Bruneski now make Maple Bay their home.

Publisher Barbara Risto

12 Facing My Fears

Editor Bobbie Jo Reid Sheriff Contributors Norman K. Archer, Tiffany Auvinen, Goldie Carlow, Judee Fong, Gipp Forster, Arlee Gale, Frank Hajer, Mary Anne Hajer, Dr. Bala Naidoo, Pat Nichol, Enise Olding, Rosalind Scott, Vernice Shostal, Barbara Small, Judy Stafford Design Barbara Risto, Bobbie Jo Reid Sheriff Proofreader Allyson Mantle Advertising Manager Barry Risto For advertising information, call 479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com Ad Sales Staff Mathieu Powell 250-704-6288 Ann Lester 250-390-1805 Barry Risto 250-479-4705 RaeLeigh Buchanan 250-479-4705 Distribution Ron Bannerman, Rhonda Donkersley, Gail Fattore, Jim Gahr, Lorraine Rhode, Barry Risto, Betty Risto, Sheila Rose Richardson Contact Information Senior Living, 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave.,Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Phone 250-479-4705 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 E-mail (General) ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com (Editorial) editor@seniorlivingmag.com Web site www.seniorlivingmag.com Subscriptions $32 (includes GST) for 12 issues. Canadian residents only. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag.com Senior Living Vancouver Island is distributed free throughout Vancouver Island. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living Vancouver Island (12 issues per year) and Senior Living Vancouver & Lower Mainland (12 issues per year). ISSN 1710-3584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)

FEATURES

SENIOR LIVING

Claire Wilson gets over her fear of motorcycles to participate in the Toy Run to Port Alberni.

14 Morning Light

Author Margaret Grifﬁths honours the memory of her husband and son.

16 Into The Sunshine

Columns 4 The Family Caregiver Barbara Small

10 Victoria’s Past Revisited Norman Archer

24 Ask Goldie

Goldie Carlow

Doug Marsh creates his art with inspiration from geographical anonymities.

26 Scam Alert

18 Storytelling

38 Courageous & Outrageous

Singer-songwriter Judy Norbury travelled to India to ﬁnd the perfect ending to her mother’s unpublished memoir.

28 A Thread of Hope

Ron Spector encourages Mayan artisans to preserve their traditional methods of weaving while receiving fair prices for their works.

33 Integrated Health Network

A unique partnership designed to enhance primary health care services.

34 A Retirement Home Alternative

A tongue-in-cheek look at a not-so-outlandish retirement option.

40 An Historic American Town Lives Again

Return to the 1800s and see what life was like in America during the Industrial Revolution.

Rosalind Scott

Pat Nichol

39 Bygone Treasures Michael Rice

48 Reﬂections:Then and Now Gipp Forster

and...

Home Support Directory 32 Events 44 Crossword 46 Classiﬁeds 47

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THE Resuming Life After FAMILY Caregiving Ends CAREGIVER BY BARBARA SMALL

Consider your current work situation natural feeling of loss oc- Take a moment to catch your breath curs when the need for us before you move on with your life. You and whether it is still right for you. Do to be caregivers ends. It is may feel relief and, then, feel a sense of you want to go back to your full-time similar to the “empty nest syndrome” guilt for feeling this relief. These feel- job or continue working part-time? Do you want to go on a vacation before rethat occurs when children move out, ings are normal. and parents are left with more free Allow yourself some time. Caregiv- turning to work? time and fewer demands. Regardless ing can be both physically and emotionContinue any activities that helped of why or how your role as you care for yourself while a caregiver ends, there is a you were a caregiver. These sense of being at loose ends might include exercise, yoga, Regardless of why or how your or “what do I do now?” massages, eating healthy, writEveryone reacts differenting in a journal, volunteering role as a caregiver ends, there is or gardening. If you were not ly to starting over. For some, a sense of being at loose ends it can feel overwhelming; for able to do these activities as a caregiver, you can enjoy them some, exciting; and for othor “what do I do now?” now. Also, enjoy other activiers, a familiar situation. You need to look forward and find ties you may not have been able opportunities open to you again. Renew ally draining and it is important to allow to do while caregiving, such as visiting old friendships, find a job that you feel yourself time to rest, catch up on sleep out-of-town friends or making changes SL good doing, volunteer, find a new hobby and put time and energy into focusing around your home. or renew an old one. on your own health. Next month: Tips for Navigating the Look back on what you used to do Continue to attend your caregiver before so much of your time was de- support group for a period both for Healthcare System

voted to caregiving. How did you spend your time? What did you enjoy doing? What did you give up in order to focus on your caregiving responsibilities? How is your life different now? How is it the same? The ﬁrst step is to allow and accept your feelings. Permit yourself time to get grounded and reoriented again.

yourself and for what you can offer caregivers who are at earlier stages of their journeys. Reconnect with friends and family. Spend more time with those who you were unable to be with when you were focused on caregiving. Take a class at your local college, recreation centre or senior centre.

Barbara Small is Program Development Coordinator for Family Caregivers’ Network Society.

The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of ElderSafe Support Services

SENIOR LIVING

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FEBRUARY 2009

Senior Living: Vancouver island Size: 7.25 x 9.75

WORLD CITIZENS A

wander around the marinas of Vancouver Island will reveal the usual bounty of boats but also uniquely designed and decorated float homes. Tethered to one dock in picturesque Maple Bay is the home of Bridget and Don Bruneski; their journey to this mooring started near Nyanga in the dry, dusty and remote Eastern Highlands of Rhodesia [now Zimbabwe] where Bridget was heading to her first day of teaching at the only school in the area. Don had been visiting some nearby cave paintings and hitched a ride. “I’d been given a lot of rides myself over the years,” says Bridget, “so, I picked him up!” Later, they both went to dinner at the home of Bridget’s friends who lived self-sufficiently on a farmstead called Susurumba at the foot of a mountain of the same name, which, in Shona, means “mountain with ugly face.” Born in Rossland, B.C., Don pursued outdoor activities, particularly skiing, while studying to become an architect. As a summer student, he worked with Cominco Ltd. in Trail, and later for Vancouver-based architectural firms and subsequently on many buildings that are prominent in that city today. Although he trained hard and competed in the alpine skiing events for Canada in the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley, California, and despite a thought that he’d like to get involved with the ski industry eventually, Don was introduced to sailing by other ex-skiers and even crewed on racing boats. “But, I like cruising better,” he smiles, as he recalls sailing in the Gulf Islands and hankering after a dream to get a deck job on a freighter and go to sea. 6

SENIOR LIVING

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ENISE OLDING

He drove across Canada and down to New York to visit friends who were immigrating to Rhodesia; he decided to join them. Don’s African travels brought him to Beira, Mocambique and eventually Nyanga. He moved on to Salisbury [now Harare], where he worked as an architect. “Coincidentally,” says Don, “I met Bridget’s circle of friends and became a part of that group.” Bridget was born and raised in Rhodesia and moved every few years because of her father’s work. Consequently, she was educated in a variety of schools and eventually attended the University of Rhodesia and Nyasaland [part of the University of Don and Bridget London], where she atBruneski with carvings tained a degree in Honfrom Zimbabwe. ours English. She has a passion for learning and teaching and, throughout her life, Bridget continued with her own education and now specializes in English, ESL and Adult Basic Education. With family and friends in South Africa and Mocambique, she travelled extensively with her family. But soon, Bridget set off on her own explorations, heading north to the cool of Eire and, in the winter, to Norway, Sweden, Germany and Denmark. In the mid-’60s, she travelled with a small multidisciplinary group for a tour of eight countries behind what was then known as the Iron Curtain. “I’ve travelled a lot in north and east Europe and hitchhiked a lot too, so I needed to pay back hitchhikers and was used to picking them up,” she says. This, of course, was fortunate for Don. Some 18 months after they met, Don, now known amongst Bridget’s friends as “the exotic Canadian,” went back to Van-

couver, accompanied by Bridget, on an exploratory trip to see what it was like. In 1973, they took up residence in a rental house but soon became live-aboards on an Australian-designed 36-foot sloop rigged trimaran moored at False Creek, which they named Susurumba. During the next five-and-ahalf years, they sailed to the Queen Charlotte Islands twice, to Barclay Sound and in local waters. They took the opportunity to crew for friends on a voyage to Hawaii to “see if we would like it.” Don: Loved it. Bridget: Not keen. “So, we prepared to go off shore two years later!” laughs Bridget. Susurumba, true to her namesake’s farmstead, was also home to self-sufficient types, and in preparation for the offshore voyage, she would provide basic, simple, practical and workable accommodation. “Our initial auxiliary power was a three-year-old Johnson 25hp outboard,” says Bridget. There was no refrigeration, no water purifiers, no GPS. But there was a ham radio, a self-designed windvane, auxiliary rudder self-steering device and, later, there would be a replacement outboard, an electronic solar-powered autopilot and sewing machine. Bridget took a one-year leave of absence from the Vancouver School Board and, in August 1979, off they sailed to Mexico. As it turns out, the couple travelled for 10 years and along with them went their newly arrived baby boy. “Paul was a central focus to our travels and integral in our decisions to carry on sailing,” says Bridget. “The people we met and the places we went to just lured us on and on.”

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Don and Bridget on the deck of their ﬂoathome with Susurumba in the background, on which they sailed around the world for nine years.

Taking the “super highway for sailboats,” says Don, “we went west to the tropics.” While their travels were dictated by the safe sailing seasons, they spent time in Central America, the Galapagos, French Polynesia, South Pacific Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, New Caledonia and Australia. Here, they took a sailing break and worked. Bridget did some telemarketing and then paid charity collection. Don drove taxi. But the real job was refitting the boat. Two-year-old Paul lapped up every moment of their time in the outdoors-focused way of life that was offered in Brisbane, Queensland. “The facilities for children were spectacular,” says Bridget. “Paul learned to swim there.” And, as per his ever-resourceful parents, it would turn out to be a skill that young Paul would use to his advantage in the future when he and his mom would work for a diving outfit. Meandering up the Great Barrier Reef to Darwin, Susurumba left

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SENIOR LIVING

Australia and headed into the Indian Ocean. On to Christmas Island, Cocos Keeling, Rodriguez, Mauritius, Reunion and Durban, South Africa, they took their time, because “we liked to become part of the community we were in.” Their uncomplicated approach meant they became immersed in the local areas quickly and easily, and enjoyed the novelty of being embraced into the mainstream of life wherever they fetched up. Having ﬁve-year-old Paul along created a lively welcome in those communities that were particularly child-oriented. In many cases, “he was our passport,” they say. At this point in their travels, a weather window allowed Bridget and Paul to make a quick trip to Zimbabwe to meet family and friends. Then they pressed on to Cape Town, St. Helena, Isle de Salut and Barbados. In 1988, the family headed back to Canada via Granada, Venezuela, the Panama Canal, Cocos Islands (where Susurumba ofﬁcially completed her cir-

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cumnavigation) and Hawaii. They were caught up watching the unfolding of a treasure expedition and this put them behind schedule for the final trip. “It was our longest leg at sea,” says Don. “42 days,” grimaces Bridget. But they arrived safely in Victoria at the beginning of September 1989. So, Paul goes to school and his parents go to work, but where will they live? They wanted to live on the boat, but quickly realized that would be impractical. “We were touring the marinas with friends and saw a float home for sale,” says Bridget. “That’s when we got the idea to live on a float home,” agrees Don, “we’ll live on the water in a house we can afford.” Just as they had done in communities around the world, they soon became part of the local fabric. “We became involved with the community very easily and we made friends here – it’s easy to do when you live on the water,” smiles Bridget. Bridget first started teaching at the Multicultural Society and eventually became a committee member. She now teaches at Vancouver Island University (formerly known as Malaspina University-College). She became involved with the Cowichan Family Life Association when she worked on and then co-ordinated, the popular Cowichan Valley Garden Tour; she’s now a board member. No stranger to outdoor activity, she loves rowing. Not one to do things by halves, Bridget enjoys walking, and has completed six of the 53km Great Lake Walks. “For me it is really important to do a little bit for any organization in whatever way it fits in with life, so I do the GLW,” she says. “It is my fitness regime and I can raise money for important organizations. Just put one foot in front of the other and keep going. It’s my life insurance, keeps me fit and I have had many generous sponsors.” Don continues with his architectural work but once an athlete, always an athlete and was happy to discover that the South Cowichan Lawn Tennis Club was close by. The 120-year-old SCLTC is now the only lawn tennis club in

Canada and boasts a fascinating history from its original site on a local farmers’ lands to a prominent former member: the world-famous poet Robert Service, the Bard of the Yukon. Joining in 1993, Don was vice-president from 1994-97 and president in 1998; he continues to be an active member. Since tennis coincides with sailing season, Don hasn’t been on the water much lately, but that’s about to change. He glances out at Susurumba and determines they’ll clean her up and be out sailing this summer. It probably won’t come as any surprise to know that once Bridget retires they’d like to travel. Her eyes sparkle as she ponders travelling North America by car, “from Alaska to Florida and everything in between.” So from their cosy ﬂoathome Bridget contemplates land travel, Don thinks about getting back to sailing, and Paul ﬁnishes off university in between his own travels to Japan, Sweden and Denmark. But, you might be wondering, what was the sewing machine for?

Once, it was used by Don to make a custom sail for the boat. Apart from the usual repairs and modifications to clothes and other items, it was used to create a nation’s flag that they could fly onboard when visiting a foreign port. As Bridget and Don say, “on the boat, we sailed for 10 years without any disasters; it was very basic, and no frills. We became part of the community we happened to be in and the boat was the vehicle which provided the way of life that was important to us.” Life now is an extension of that. SL “We love living here.” LINKS: South Cowicha n Lawn Tennis Club : www.scltc.bc.ca Cowichan Fam ily Life Associ ation (Annual Garde n Tour): www.cowichanf amilylife.org Great Lake Wal k: www.greatlake walk.com

FEBRUARY 2009

T S A P S ’ IA R O T C I V

or the thrill of a lifetime, drive the 450-kilometre Chilcotin Highway (Highway 20) from Williams Lake to Bella Coola – especially the last hair-raising section. The “Freedom Highway,” as it was once called, is a tribute to the determination, self-sacriﬁce and countless hours of volunteer labour from the local citizens. Almost 100 years earlier, an ill-fated and aborted attempt to cross the Chilcotin Plateau by a wagon trail precipitated a bloody confrontation – in fact, it was outright war, the only fully-armed conﬂict in British Columbia between white settlers and aboriginals. Alfred Waddington, a highly ethical, scrupulously honest, generous-hearted, though incredibly persnickety, businessman from Victoria dreamed up an ambitious scheme in 1862 to build a fast route for prospectors to travel from the Bute Inlet to Barkerville at the height of the Gold Rush days. Work was well underway by 1865, when local natives on a rampage suddenly attacked the construction camps. They murdered at least 14 of Waddington’s men. Some say the bloodshed was the result of threats from the workers that if the natives interfered with the progress of the trail, they would be infected with smallpox. Knowing how smallpox had

SENIOR LIVING

A RESPECTABLE OLD FOOL

devastated so many First Nations camps, the local tribes were driven by panic and motives of self-preservation. Immediately, Governor Seymour stepped in and 38 militiamen set sail for the area in HMS Forward, followed by a second force that came by land from Barkerville. Eventually, the uprising was put down and Judge Matthew Baillie Begbie sentenced ﬁve of the ringleaders to hang in Quesnel. This event marked the collapse of the venture. Alfred Penderell Waddington was born into a business family in West London, England on October 2, 1801. He was educated in England, France and Germany and, after some unsuccessful commercial ventures in France, in May, 1850 he decided to seek his fortune in California. The Gold Rush was in full swing and Waddington did well with a grocery business in San Francisco. The lure of gold in the Fraser Valley, however, brought him to Victoria in 1858, not to go prospecting himself, but to set up a warehouse to supply the miners with equipment on a piece of property he purchased between Johnson and Yates Streets. He cut a public access through his property, known today as “Waddington Alley.” Watching from his warehouse, he saw the horses struggling through the

mud on their way to Morley’s Soda Water Factory, so he decided to turn the alley into what some believe to be the first “paved” thoroughfare in Victoria. He simply laid rough-hewn boards along the alley. They were not the neat and tidy wooden blocks one sees today, but any old scrap pieces of wood he could find so the horses could get a foothold. He built several small buildings along his alley of California Redwood and leased them as a fish market, a bakery (Willie’s), a blacksmith, a restaurant and a bowling alley. Then he began to write. He wrote the first book published on Vancouver Island, The Fraser Mines Vindicated, in which he praised the gold seekers – and his own business! He shared, with newspaper publisher Amor De Cosmos, a hearty dislike of James Douglas and the machinations of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Soon, he was writing polemics against the system. He was elected a Victoria District representative to the House of Assembly and co-authored the charter for the new city of Victoria. However, his bid to be the city’s first Mayor was eclipsed by the ebullient local butcher, Thomas Harris, and he withdrew his name. In 1865, he sunk his efforts into a vision he shared with the irascible Amor De Cosmos. It concerned the plight of children from the families of the working poor. To-

THE TALE OF ALFRED WADDINGTON BY NORMAN K. ARCHER

gether, they established a free school system, a pioneer venture for the times. Waddington became its enthusiastic Superintendent of Education. But the new Governor Frederick Seymour was heartily opposed to the concept of public education. Waddington struggled to maintain the system, teachers worked without pay, voluntary donations came in and landlords leased premises without rent, but it was to no avail. The schools were forcibly closed down to await a more enlightened day. Waddington was also a vigorous supporter of Confederation and thoroughly convinced that a cross-country railway, linked to Vancouver Island by way of the Bute Inlet was the secret to future development of the country. He published his ideas in a series of leaflets and undertook a painstaking survey of much of the route. He proposed some revolutionary new concepts of ﬁnancing – he campaigned for funds in England, he addressed the Royal Geographical Society in London, he tried enlisting American entrepreneurs, he even presented a petition to the British House of Commons, but shortsighted political intrigues scuttled the project. Once again, Canada was not ready for him yet. Ever the advocate of the downtrodden and under-privileged, he took an unpopular stance, in 1858, when he spoke out against the hanging of a young Tsimshian named

respectable old fool.” His somewhat dour personality, his fussy mannerisms, his conﬁrmed bachelor status and his dabbling in schemes and ventures that were far ahead of his time did little to enhance his reputation. His readiness to champion unpopular causes and defend the despised of society only attracted opposition. But he never gave up. He was certainly no giant and the fact that British Columbia’s highest mountain is named after him seems a little incongruous. But he was one of the many lesser lights without whom Victoria may not have evolved in the way it has and without his survey, the trans-continental railway may have taken many more years to complete. Waddington only feared one thing: Smallpox. One day, he met a doctor friend at a hotel, who clasped his hand warmly and said, “I have just left the worst case of smallpox I have ever seen!” Waddington died shortly afterwards at the age of 70 on February 27, 1872 – of smallpox.

Allache. The young man’s wife had been attacked and raped several nights in succession by a brawler named Thomas Brown. Finally, driven by sheer desperation, Allache stabbed the man to death. Allache was sentenced to hang for murder. “Indians must be taught to respect the law,” said the judge. The execution took place outside the Police Barracks, the man’s eyes streaming with tears. A moment before his death, he threw back his head and cried out in one, long, loud, blood-curdling wail. The horriﬁed spectators slunk away. His body was left to dangle as an example to any who would dare take the law into their own hands and his remains lie buried in Bastion Square. Only the day before, a white man was sentenced to four years in jail for stabbing to death a harmless vagrant. Waddington was outraged and wrote a vehement attack on what he described as a “mockery of a trial.” Allache could speak virtually no English. The translator was clearly inept. There was no defence worthy of the name. The execution, he said, was “judicial murder.” Sadly, he had few who supported him. “Good Old Waddy,” as most people called him, was never taken seriously. Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s ﬁrst Prime Minister, referred to him as, “a

Norman Archer is an historical city tour guide in Victoria and the author of Tales of Old Victoria. Contact him at 250-655-1594 or nka@canada.com

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Facing My Fears

On a Motorcycle BY CLAIRE WILSON

a ride on his motorcycle. He promised not to speed. He reassured me I wouldn’t need to do any leaning into the corners. All I’d have to do is sit there and enjoy the view. He even promised to go very, very slowly and carefully. If I felt confident enough, he said, we could participate in the Toy Run. I hope the bruises around David’s mid-section healed quickly. On our first trip, I held on for dear life, held my breath around every corner, looked to the right, and studiously avoided eye contact with oncoming vehicles on the left. I survived! On the next ride, we explored the back roads around Coombs, Errington and Hilliers. David gave me an additional assignment on this ride. He told me I should be the one to give the “cool” wave. Now, you may not have noticed this, but all bikers acknowledge one another by raising f I were an animal, I would be a turtle. I’d be close to the ground so I couldn’t fall far. A hard shell would their left hand in a casual salute. There is no Queen Elizabeth protect me so I couldn’t be injured. I’d move slowly rotating of the wrist; there is no little kid bending of the finand enjoy my surroundings. If danger threatened, I could re- gers. It is a study in coolness and is often accompanied by a slight nodding of the head. treat inside my travelling home. What can I say? In order to give the cool wave, you must first So, what was I doing on the back of a motorcycle? be cool – and be aware of oncoming traffic. I failed miserably It started about a year ago, when I saw a news clip about the annual motorcycle Toy Run to Port Alberni. Picture this: on both counts. In my mind, if I didn’t see the danger, then it there’s a large man in a Harley Davidson vest. His muscled didn’t exist. If, by some wild chance, I should spy an oncoming arms are covered in tattoos, his beer belly overflows his motorcyclist, I would also have to release my death grip from leather pants and his smile shows missing teeth. But, held David’s mid-section. That wasn’t going to happen, so David tightly to his chest is a white teddy bear. Its destination? A once again became the chief greeter of oncoming bikers. Soon it was time for the Toy Run. We were to assemble at needy child who will find solace in its fuzzy arms. You just the Little Qualicum Falls parking lot. Even behind the face have to say, “Awww!” A few months ago, my friend, David, invited me to go for shield of my helmet, my surprise must have been evident. The place was full of motorcycles of every size, shape and colour. The bikers were Purchase a subscription to Senior Living for just $32 and never miss an issue! a cross section of humanity, from tough SUBSCRIPTION ORDER FORM Harley types to dads with their kids, to older folks like us. MAGAZINE  Yes, I would like The bikes, also, were intriguing. to subscribe to Senior Name __________________________________________________ Some were made to look like animals Living - Vancouver Address ________________________________________________ with horns, stripes or spots. Flames Island (12 issues). adorned the sides of many. Some were Enclosed please find City ___________________________________________________ obviously antiques; others looked like Province ________________ Postal Code ____________________ my cheque for $32. they had just been driven out of the (Includes GST and S & H) Mail to: Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 showroom. They were all polished to a

SENIOR LIVING

shiny lustre, and their owners were proud. We noted carefully where our bike was parked and went to register and get coffee and doughnuts. With so many bikes in the area, it would have been easy to lose sight of your own. The trip to and from the registration and coffee took ages because of the massive numbers of bikes and bikers. It was truly amazing! An announcement told bikers to prepare to leave. The Toy Run began with the loud boom of a cannon reverberating off the trees and surrounding hills followed by the roar of motorcycle engines. The place vibrated, and the excitement was palpable. I had never ridden in a large group before, but David told me about the staggered placement of each bike, one to the left and one to the right. It seemed orderly and controlled, so I relaxed slightly. As far as I could see ahead of me, there were motorcycles. Since I knew we were about halfway in the group, I reasoned the same would be true behind. As we made our way toward Cathedral Grove, I calmed myself by looking at the trees, “One tree, two trees, green trees, brown trees,” I recited in a mumbled version of the Dr. Seuss story. Then, as we rode through Cathedral Grove, I realized that I could see much more of the Grove from the back of a motorcycle than through the windows of a car. I could also feel the cool air and smell the distinctive aroma of the evergreens. With a shock, I realized I was enjoying myself. This was fun! On the outskirts of Port Alberni, I saw a mom with a little girl. The youngster, dressed in a pink shirt and ponytail, waved her small hand in my direction. What could I do? I waved back. It was not the cool wave of one motorcyclist to another, but the wave of happy hello that friends give to each other. As the crowd increased, so did my waving and so did my happy smile. It felt good to be there, to be part of a group dedicated to helping others through this toy run, and to sit on the back of a motorcycle and wave to a cheering crowd. The event ended at the Fall Fair Grounds in Alberni, where my white bear joined a growing menagerie, and our cash donation was gratefully accepted. There were adult bike games such as riding the plank, kids events (face painting, ﬁsh pond, etc.) and a pig roast. We learned later, there were 1263 participants and more than $55,000 was raised for local charities. On the way home, I sighed contentedly and then gave the SL “cool wave” to a passing biker.

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STORY AND PHOTO BY ENISE OLDING

MORNING LIGHT G

aliano Island author Margaret Griffiths has sailed across oceans and climbed Mount Everest, but was neither seasick nor frostbitten. She undertook these epic journeys using as her guides the diaries, letters and recorded experiences of her husband, stepson and others who played key roles in the series of thrilling and catastrophic events that resulted in her recently released book Morning Light: Triumph at Sea and Tragedy on Everest. Born in Lincolnshire, England, Margaret eventually attended St. Paul’s Girls School outside of London. In her understated way, she says she did “unexpectedly well in English” – the very skills that saw her write, among many other things, several articles, a play for CBC and the book that would be a literary homage to her adventurer husband George Griffith and his son Blair. Margaret loved school and she eventually moved to Yorkshire to study Social Science at Leeds University. When the Second World War broke out, Margaret joined the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and during the Battle of Britain worked on the first experimental radar. She trained at the most southerly of sta14

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tions and recalls watching the planes muster across the Channel. Working at night with a crew of women, she plotted every bomber coming in and talked with the night fighters. “I really enjoyed being and working with other women of the same age,” she says. One of her most vivid memories of the time was when “I was on the Isle of Wight, it was dark and we were up on a hill and the only light was from the towns on the south coast – they were on fire. That’s what comes back to me – the fire,” she recalls. Eventually, Margaret became an officer. Of all the women she worked with, she has remained in touch with one who now resides in Montreal. Margaret came to Canada in 1953, where she was holidaying with an uncle, Bill Money, who was in the mushroom business. “It was easier in those days to gain Canadian Citizenship without having to go back first,” she smiles. “I just went along to Immigration as a social worker and asked, ‘can I have a work permit?’ They said, ‘yes.’” Her husband and two children joined

Author Margaret Grifﬁths is greeted by a marina cat during her photoshoot.

her, and life in Canada began. In the summer of 1968, Margaret, then a widow with two grown children was house-sitting for a friend on Salt Spring Island when she met a man walking along the beach. It was George Griffiths, and they recognized each other from a previous brief meeting at the B.C. Hydro offices, where they both worked, albeit in different realms. For 10 years after they met and married, she and George continued to work in their respective careers, but always with an eye on the future when they could live in the cedar home they’d built on Galiano Island, and how it would welcome George home from the seafaring adventures of which he dreamed. Eventually, after his retirement, George sailed his boat Kairos across the Atlantic and then the Pacific oceans and was awarded Britain’s Alec Rose Trophy for exceptional seamanship; as an older man he had finally realized his lifelong dream. At sea, he faithfully recorded his progress and it is by way of these tapes, along with his letters and diaries, that Margaret was also able to experience every exhilarating or challeng-

ing sea mile. Adventure did not stop at sea level, but was about to climb the heady heights of Everest. Stepsons Blair and Mark had joined their father for part of the sailing trip, but Blair left early to take his place as cameraman documenting the 26-member 1982 Canadian Mount Everest Expedition Team. Fraught with challenges and tragedy, the expedition eventually saw the first two Canadians stand on top of the world. But in the process, a six-storey wall of ice crushed Blair to death. Another, unexpected and more sober adventure awaited George who, along with his grandson, trekked to Everest Base Camp to say their goodbyes to Blair. Again, Margaret poured over diaries and firsthand accounts from the climbers to cover this part of the story. “I wanted to get it accurate,” she says. She still enjoys a rewarding relationship with many of the climbers and, when she was waiting for the book’s release, joined them at their 25th reunion. “I wanted to honour the courage of the people I was writing about,” says Margaret. “Not only for my family, but the climbers who reached the summit and took Blair’s memory with them to the summit.” The work was slow: listening to tapes and then stopping to transcribe them. An added challenge was her deteriorating eyesight, but by increasing the font size on her computer, Margaret prevailed. For her, it was like living three lives as she worked her way through the personal accounts of the adventurers, especially when hearing their beloved voices again. “It was difficult once I started to relive it,” she says. But she smiles as she recalls that when she first started work on the book when George was still alive, he’d read the first chapter and quipped, “it’s quite exciting – I wonder if he will come through?” Thanks to Margaret’s dedication, meticulous and painstaking research, we know that not only did George come through, but also his adventures, and those of his son Blair, have been sensitively recorded by an author who always considered herself the crucial link with home that all adventurers need to succeed. Morning Light is published by Rocky SL Mountain Books www.rmbooks.com

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FEBRUARY 2009

INTO THE SUNSHINE

BY JUDY STAFFORD

ven in the overwhelming chill of winter, there’s a warmth emanating from a small, eccentric home tucked away on an unassuming street in Chemainus. The last five years have seen this dilapidated structure being reborn into excitement, openness, light and art; Doug Marsh is the creator of this space and so much more. The heat of the crackling wood stove is inviting, but the bursts of colour and mandalas splattered on cupboard doors and walls made expansive by tricks of light and mirrors make this home much more than meets the eye. Mandala, loosely translated from Sanskrit, means circle but it’s more than its simple shape – it represents wholeness; a reminder that we are all connected; a thought that resonates strongly in Doug’s mind and life. Crop circles, another prominent feature in the formation of art scattered throughout the kitchen, also inspire Doug with their mystery. Their origin has been a controversial catalyst for many a debate, whether man-made, hoaxes or gifts from extra-terrestrials. They’ve appeared for centuries in farmer’s fields, sometimes seemingly instantaneously and proceeded by balls of light, flattening grain into immense, wondrous, inexplicable shapes. To date, it’s reported that over 12,000 crop circles have been discovered from the U.K. to Japan to the U.S., and even in Duncan. Regardless of their authenticity, Doug creates beauty with inspiration from these geographical anonymities. “I feel the effect of working with these shapes,” he says. “I feel a real waking, an energy whenever I play with this stuff. I’ve been inspired, gifted in some way with a vision that I have to do something. If I don’t, I am wasting an opportunity, shirk16

SENIOR LIVING

ing a responsibility. It’s the same with my music, I haven’t been expressing myself all that clearly, I’m shy and ashamed people would be angry. I think those are the people that I should avoid – people who enforce that smallness. That ‘stay in that box’ mentality isn’t good.” Doug’s vision of breaking out of his box includes bringing a sense of connectedness to the world around him. And creating his home has been just the beginning of realizing this oneness – albeit with some interesting tribulations. “This house has been the biggest challenge of my life, and it’s deﬁnitely haunted. Not in a bad way, but there is always weird stuff going on,” says Doug. “Like, I’ll say something, and it’s almost like there is a response - something will bang or rattle. And there are different feelings in different parts of the house – some parts I won’t even go in. When I cleaned the attic there were so many cobwebs – solid, black cobwebs, like a catcher’s mitt of cobwebs. And it felt like, this is me in some material way, me dealing with cleaning the cobwebs of myself.” Clearing whatever might have been standing in Doug’s way is going to beneﬁt him and those around him. Island-born, Doug has made Chemainus, a small, sleepy seaside tourist town of under 5,000 people, his home, to be closer to his two teenage children. And now he has great vision for this town, known for its hand-painted murals, by turning it into an ideal community. “We are going to get together a group of people and meet regularly to see what we can do. Play some music, set up an informal coalition, and see how we can contribute to our town. I have had visions for this town for years and I keep expecting someone else to do it. I think these crop circles are something that needs to be addressed. I can paint them anywhere – on my

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furniture, on walls – why not have them everywhere, at intersections, maybe on lamp posts?” His kitchen is scattered with large wooden, painted pieces, each representing different replicas of crop circles that will soon be transformed from aesthetic to functional. A colourful sphere perched atop a tangled array of old maple branches will become a table: a gift for his daughter. At 53, after spending years as an accomplished journeyman carpenter, Doug is coming back into his own and celebrating his talents as the true artist he was discouraged from being as a younger man. His creations – becoming tables and wall hangings – leave his hands faster than he can make them and will soon be seen in local storefronts and shops. And now, bursting with a newfound enthusiasm, he wants to share his escape from hibernation and “stick his head out into the sunshine.” Doug lavishes colour on top of colour and, waving his arms, talks more of his quest. “What if – what if we had the idea to build a town as healthy as possible? Why not see if we can grow enough food to feed ourselves. Perhaps have an incentive program – how much trouble would it be to turn lawns into vegetable gardens, to make impermeable surfaces into permeable surfaces, to bury wires into underground water pipes, how much trouble would it be?” Stopping to smooth out a tiny blotch of colour on another tabletop, he observes, “Everything is a reﬂection of me. And with a little discipline, I can focus my attention anywhere; it’s my will, my choice. It is my autonomous responsibility to focus on the future – a future that I can see of a global village, a utopia of sharing, the collective; it’s a beautiful celebration. I could look back, but does that help me? It’s a choice and I can consciously put myself in the company of people who have that view of the future, have fun, and take action. It’s exciting.” Doug’s green ideas erupt like a volcano with lava pouring down the mountainside picking up steam as it rages ahead. But instead of leaving blackened destruction in its path, they’re planting the seeds of possibilities. And those possibilities are endless as he discusses forming a small group of like-minded community members in Chemainus to share ideas, brainstorm and start taking action – making this town the best it can be. He asks, “If not here, where? If not us, who? If not now, SL when?”

FEBRUARY 2009

Storytelling Through Song and Memoir BY CANDICE SCHULTZ

hen Mary Hargreaves Norbury moved from Vancouver to northern India in 1948, she felt as though she was living a fairytale. Shortly after arriving there, she married an English carpet manufacturer and led a privileged life as a post-Raj Memsahib. When her eldest daughter, Judy, contracted polio at the age of four, the family moved back to Canada, and Mary began writing her memoir. Judy Norbury, now 59, lives in the Comox Valley and is well known in the community as a singer-songwriter, both solo and as part of the folk duo Norbury & Finch. She can often be seen playing at farmers’ markets and folk jams, but has also performed at folk festivals across the province. Her voice has a whimsical, uplifting tone, and her style ranges from bluegrass to folk rock. In 1998, Judy travelled to India for the ﬁrst time since she left her birthplace almost 50 years earlier. When she returned from her trip, she realized that her account of India 18

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was the perfect ending to her mother’s unpublished memoir. She began working on the manuscript for Come Back, Judy Baba, a fusion of her story with her mother’s. With the book now in publication and two albums to her name, Judy is an established West Coast artist. For as long as she can remember, music has been a part of her life. “Music is always being played in India and I am sure that hearing Indian rhythms as a child contributed to the development of my sense of rhythm,” she says. When she was young, Judy would dance to passing gypsy bands in the village near her home. After moving to Vancouver and spending a year in the BC Children’s Hospital to treat her polio, Judy was raised on the east side of Vancouver. When she turned six, she received a transistor radio that she says changed her life. She immediately became obsessed with 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, and then moved on to the works of Bob Dylan and Buffy Sainte-Marie.

At eight years old, she sang for an audience for the ﬁrst time. Judy and Mary were on a ship travelling back to Canada from Lourdes, France, a trip that her parents had saved for nearly a year to fund. Each day that she spent in the holy city, nuns would immerse Judy in baths of cold spring water, hoping to help her walk again. The ship’s orchestra accompanied her singing debut and she sang “Que Sera, Sera,” and “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” “My performance kindled a lust for an audience I would never lose,” she writes in her memoir. As a youth, Judy participated in choir and music classes, but didn’t begin to write songs until she acquired her ﬁrst Appalachian Mountain dulcimer, a string instrument similar to the Indian sitar. “The music of Tim Buckley inspired and spoke to me and I realized that I could speak about my feelings and desires through songwriting.” She was introduced to the dulcimer

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SENIOR LIVING

“I think parts of my character, such as patience, acceptance, belief in the divine nature of all things and good humour may have been influenced by my first four years, when I spent so much time with the Indian staff,” says Judy. Her most recent experiences in her birthplace, however, have made her thankful she grew up in Canada, with the privileges afforded in North American society. In Come Back, Judy Baba, Judy Norbury with Judy recounts several her mother Mary. challenges she experienced while travelling in a wheelchair, including doors that displayed the international wheelchair symbol, but had no washroom behind them. “I have always been quite comfortable with my disability,” says Judy. “But being in India as a disabled adult made me accept myself in a new way, and thankful for how I was raised and the privileges of being a Canadian. Disabled folk in Canada have it easy. There is disability everywhere in India; it’s not easy for them, but it’s all part of the varied stream of life.” With her new album, Did You Find the Door out, and the music festival season quickly approaching, Judy is hopeful she will have the chance to play in some of the larger festivals, such as the Vancouver Island Musicfest. While she feels that the Comox Valley has plenty of opportunities for artistic expression, it’s difficult to get a spot at the major festivals. Photos: Rosamond Norbury

at the age of 20 when she lived in Pender Harbour on the Sunshine Coast. At the time, she lived across the bay from Rick Scott, an accomplished dulcimer player and his friend, J.R. Stone, a talented dulcimer builder. “I was visiting their house one day and saw and heard my ﬁrst Appalachian mountain dulcimer,” she recounts. “I immediately fell in love with the sound, the drone strings reminiscent of a sitar.” She is sure the Indian-like sound is what initially drew her to the instrument. Shortly after, Judy negotiated a bank loan to buy her ﬁrst J.R. Stone dulcimer. Today, she enjoys performing for an audience, and lacks the nerves that prevent many people from stepping on a stage. The two readings that have accompanied the publication of Come Back, Judy Baba are completely different, though. Surprisingly, Judy feels anxious speaking in front of a crowd and says that it’s not like singing. However, with every reading, she feels more comfortable, and looks forward to her book tour in April. At this stage in her life, Judy doesn’t see a correlation between her trips to India and her songwriting, with the exception of the song “Trains,” which takes inspiration from the many trains she travelled on while in India. She does, however, attest her positive personality to her brief but shaping time as a child in India.

“It’s not like the old days of the Renaissance Fairs that Courtenay was famous for, where it was easy to get a spot, even on main stage,” she says. As the festivals gain popularity and corporate sponsorship, they are turning to more mainstream musicians. This hasn’t deterred Judy’s creative spirit, and while she doesn’t actively seek gigs as often as she used to, she still performs regularly. She is modest about her writing abilities, and says it doesn’t always come easily to her. “Writing songs comes from a need to express a feeling or idea,” she says. “Writing memoir is a totally different and, I believe, unrelated activity for me. I pretty much have to force myself to begin either discipline, but can become obsessed once I get rolling.” Mary now suffers from dementia and resides in a longterm care facility in Vancouver, and Judy looks forward to showing her the published memoir. “It makes me a little sad that my mother cannot appreciate the achievement that she and I have created, but I am satisﬁed that I have brought her manuscript to SL print during her lifetime.” Come Back, Judy Baba is available at www.madronabooks.com

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50+ Active Living Celebration presented by Senior Living magazine Friday, March 13, 2009 10am-4pm

Pearkes Recreation Centre 3100 Tillicum Rd., Victoria BC

If you are over the age of 50, we invite you to come share your passion and interests with others at the 50+ Active Living Celebration. Exhibitors must: • be 50 years of age, or older • be involved in an activity that is interesting and engaging, physically and/or mentally • be able to physically demonstrate the activity or provide an interesting, eye-catching display that shows how they and/or others are involved in this activity.

Personal interests may include sports, ﬁtness, hobbies, crafts, art, writing, travel, learning, outdoors, collecting, volunteering, performing, etc.

Applications that best demonstrate the 50+ Active Living theme and represent a varied cross-section of interests and activities will be selected by Senior Living. Successful applicants will only pay a registration fee of $15 or $25. ($15 Fee for half an 8’ table, $25 for a 6’ table. Additional fees will apply for power, to conduct a rafﬂe or to sell products or services.)

Please apply as soon as possible to increase the chances of being chosen to demonstrate YOUR favourite pastime or activity. Only 45 booth spaces available. Exhibitors can be a single individual, a couple, a group, or a club.

SENIOR LIVING

For more info, or to request an application form, please call (250)479-4705 or email ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com

LAST CHANCE to book your exhibition space! Tables and booths are ﬁlling up quickly for the 2009 50+ Active Living Celebration hosted by Senior Living at Pearkes Recreation Centre on Friday, March 13th. This popular event provides a full day of exciting, interactive demonstration and displays by active, enthusiastic participants who enjoy various hobbies, interests and passions. Authors, athletes, artists, hobbyists, musicians, singers, dancers, storytellers, historians, collectors, senior clubs and more will be on hand to provide information and insight into the activities they enjoy participating in. Come discover new hobbies, join a new club, or just enjoy the ambiance of this fun event. There’s something for everyone. Exhibitors who are 50 years of age or older are invited to participate by purchasing table space. $15 for half of an 8’ table, or $25 for a 6’ table. “We know that people over the age of 50 are involved in all kinds of activities. We would like to showcase as many as possible, the more diverse the better. Visitors to the event will have the chance to consider activities they may have never tried before,” says festival founder and publisher Barbara Risto. “We ask those who are active to ‘Pass it on’.” Businesses and organizations that provide services and products of interest to the 50+ consumer are also invited to participate through the purchase of booth space. Booth rentals start at $400. To get more information or request an application, please call the Senior Living ofﬁce at (250)479-4705.

This is the 4th year Senior Living has held an annual event of this kind. Previously, the event was called the “Senior Celebration Festival.” This year, the event was expanded to include participants over the age of 50 who demonstrate active living through their activities and involvment in the community. In addition to these exhibitors, approximately 45 businesses will be selected to display their products and services. Come be inspired at this year’s Celebration. Join us on Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. when the Pearkes Recreation Centre doors open to a world of opportunity and adventure.

Join a BUS TOUR coming from UP-ISLAND to the 50+ Active Living Celebration Friday, March 13, 2009 PORT ALBERNI - VICTORIA RETURN

7:00 AM PORT ALBERNI - ECHO CENTRE 7:40 AM QUALICUM - CIVIC CENTRE 8:00 AM PARKSVILLE - WEMBLEY MALL 10:00 AM ARRIVE VICTORIA 3:30 PM DEPART VICTORIA 5:45 PM PARKSVILLE - WEMBLEY MALL 6:00 PM QUALICUM - CIVIC CENTRE 6:30 PM PORT ALBERNI

CAMPBELL RIVER / COURTENAY - VICTORIA RETURN

From Port Alberni

$35 Tax incl.

From Courtenay

$35 Tax incl.

From Campbell River

$40 Tax incl.

FOR MORE INFO OR TO RESERVE A SEAT, PLEASE CALL:

Marina 1-877-474-3303 or Bill Cove (250) 723-0197

6:00 AM CAMPBELL RIVER - FERRY TERMINAL TO QUADRA ISLAND 7:00 AM COURTENAY FILBERG CENTRE 10:00 AM ARRIVE VICTORIA 3:45 PM DEPART VICTORIA 7:00 PM COURTENAY - FILBERG CENTRE 8:00 PM CAMPBELL RIVER - FERRY TERMINAL TO QUADRA ISLAND FEBRUARY 2009

Photo: Jason van der Valk

ASK Goldie BY GOLDIE CARLOW, M.ED

Dear Goldie: Last summer, my husband and I went on a camping trip to interior B.C. We became friends with another couple who live in the same city as we do. We have kept in contact and go to dinners or shows together occasionally. The man often drops in for a visit alone. He is retired but my husband still works. They have become close friends. My problem is that these visits are when I am alone. He becomes too friendly and attentive, and now I really don’t like him near me. My husband thinks I am overreacting, but he never sees his behaviour. Meanwhile, his wife is acting very cool toward me. What should I do? –B.D. Dear B.D.: You have explained the situation well; so let your husband read this letter. I think he will realize there are two sides to his friend’s character. If he hesitates to do anything about it, then you can confront the man about his behaviour yourself. Tell him he is not welcome when your husband is not home. Hopefully this will stop the visits and possibly the friendship. Your husband

deserves better in a friend, and you certainly don’t need this kind of attention. Dear Goldie: I am a 70-year-old divorcée, very active in the community, with a busy social life. Recently, at a dinner party, I met a very handsome gentleman with a great personality. I accepted an invitation to a show and coffee. When we arrived at my door after a great evening, he insisted on coming in to have a chat. That was my mistake. He planned to spend the night! Goldie, I am not stupid or inexperienced at dating, but I am disappointed at this kind of behaviour on a ﬁrst date. He seemed to be a nice person in many ways, and I was looking forward to a new friendship. Do you think there is any hope in continuing to date him? He has called to apologize and wants to see me. –Z.N. Dear Z.N.: Sometimes, at social functions, people get their signals mixed. You sound like a happy, outgoing person and he may have interpreted meeting a lighthearted divorcée as an invitation to in-

timacy. I can assure you it has happened before. You seem to be genuinely interested in this man and would like more contact, otherwise, you wouldn’t be writing to me. I suggest you start again and gradually get to know each other as friends. Time takes care of many things and if your friendship does develop into a closer relationship, you will be ready. As a note of caution, sometimes wolves do appear in sheep’s clothing! You have years of life experience, so you’ll no doubt be prepared. SL Good Luck! SENIOR PEER COUNSELLING CENTRES Victoria 250-382-4331 Duncan 250-748-2133 Nanaimo 250-754-3331 Sidney 250-656-5537 Courtenay/Comox 250-334-9917 Salt Spring Island 250-537-4607 Port Hardy 250-949-5110

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

LEARN MORE: Look for our article at www.seniorlivingmag.com “Ask A Professional”

SENIOR LIVING

we’re just around the corner ... and yet a world away. Nestled among the woods of Cadboro Bay, Queenswood has been a sanctuary of peace and renewal for over 40 years. Stay for an hour and take a yoga class, enjoy a massage, browse our extensive library or relax

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FEBRUARY 2009

SCAM ALERT BY ROSALIND SCOTT

What If a Store Goes Bankrupt?

any retail businesses rely heavily on holiday season sales. During tough economic times, sales may plummet, driving retailers into bankruptcy. Customers are then left in the dark, wondering if their purchases will be delivered or whether their gift cards are valid. In the last quarter of 2008, bankruptcy ﬁlings by B.C. businesses rose 20 per cent over the same time last year. In most cases, consumers contact the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to check the status of a company after it closes its doors. The consumer may be out a substantial amount of money for undelivered merchandise. And the retailer may not be answering the telephone. For many, it is a stressful experience. Here is some general advice for consumers on what to do if a retailer closes up shop without fulﬁlling its promises.

Explore your payment options: If you made payment by credit card and a product is not delivered, you may have recourse through your credit card company. First, attempt to contact the merchant. If you have made reasonable attempts, without success, immediately contact your credit card issuer and ask for an investigation into the charges or ask for a chargeback. Advise the credit card company that the merchant appears to be out of business and that the product has not been delivered, as promised. If the claim is verified, a refund or credit may be issued. If you made payment by cheque, examine the back of the cancelled cheque to see where it was deposited. Contact that bank or have your bank assist to see if they maintain an active account, or if they can locate the business and its principals. Can’t find the company, but think they may still be operating? Visit the last known location of the business. Look for signs or instructions. Ask neighbouring firms if they know the whereabouts of the business. Call directory assistance for a possible new address or phone number. Once you locate the business owners, call or write, sending your letter by registered mail.

If you think the business may be bankrupt: When a business cannot pay their debts, they may ﬁle for 26

SENIOR LIVING

bankruptcy. This process must be handled by an insolvency professional – a private sector trustee who is registered by the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy. This office maintains a central database, which records all bankruptcies filed in Canada. For a fee, they will search the records for you to confirm the bankruptcy status of an individual or business. In this case, you can make a claim with this trustee. To search a company, you can visit the Superintendent of Bankruptcy website: www.ic.gc.ca Bankruptcy law is specific regarding who will benefit first in the case of a retailer’s liquidation. Unfortunately, customers are at the back of the line. Typically, money gained from selling off the company’s assets goes to paying secured creditors and employee wages. If anything is left over, it is divvied among customers who didn’t receive the promised services or goods.

Warranties may be still valid: If a retailer goes out of business, the consumer may be able to rely on the manufacturer’s warranty. If a manufacturer goes out of business, the consumer may be able to rely on any warranties provided by the retailer. Many extended warranties and service plans are provided and administered by third parties and are typically not affected by a retailer or manufacturer going bust. Check to see if there is third party warranty coverage.

Start with the BBB: The BBB receives information daily on a number of changes in business locations and ownerships and may be able to help. Go to bbb.org to search through our North AmericanSL wide database of company reports.

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

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A THREAD OF HOPE BY JUDEE FONG

Working together.

the east is El Salvador. With a population of 13 million, the country has suffered through decades of brutal military dictatorships with the indigenous people hit hardest. Today, under a democratic republic government, the country is recognizing its native population. “I ﬁrst visited Guatemala in 1977 when I was 25 years old,” Ron remembers. “I was there before and after the worst of it. I wanted to know more about these people and how they were coping. The Mayans were still growing their own food and weaving their own clothes. I had a lot of respect for that. I really like the people and the country,” he says earnestly. Ron was inspired the ﬁrst time he saw the beautiful hand-woven fabrics made by the Mayan people. “I recognized the potential of what the Mayans could offer. I’m a good organizer and I wanted to help market the goods they produced,” he says. 28

SENIOR LIVING

Ron was especially drawn to the unique designs and simplicity of the work created by the women using the backstrap loom, an ancient tradition passed from mother to daughter. Unlike other looms, the backstrap is unrolled with one end strapped around the waist of the weaver and the other end tied to a tree or post. This traditional technique is a very slow means of weaving clothes for family members. In addition to cooking, cleaning and caring for her family, a Mayan woman can spend as many as eight hours a day at her loom. Her cultural identity is proudly illustrated through the skillful weaving of her “traje” or costume. With as many as 20 different regional dialects in the Mayan language, the common bond is the backstrap weaver. “I met some of the women who survived the massacres in their villages,” says Ron. “I worked at the refugee camps in Mexico for a few years. These women continued with their traditional weaving to have some means of subsistence.” Using his own money, Ron began supplying cotton threads and, later, rayon threads to the Mayan women in the refugee camps. He then purchased the ﬁnished items to sell in North America. Soon, word spread to the women in the rural villages of Guatemala. In 1987, Ron was invited by two leaders to the small community Photo: Jude e Fong

eaving hope, one thread at a time, is the story behind the beautiful woven accessories Ron Spector markets for the Mayan women of Solola, Guatemala. A country rich in natural resources, Guatemala’s trading neighbour on its north and west border is Mexico and to

of El Triunfo, Solola in the highlands of Guatemala. As a “community organizer,” he helped start a self-help project with 17 widows who had survived the massacre of their village. Today, this small group has increased to 180 women, who have formed a weaver co-op called the Asociacion Maya de Desarrollo. “The co-op is a community of Mayan women who are learning the business of allocating funds for supplies, creating and selling their goods, as well as being fairly paid for their work,” says Ron. ‘The tiny salary the women earn allows them to provide a better diet and to buy needed medicines for their families.” Originally, the Solola weavers used cotton threads mixed with silk threads to weave their beautiful scarves, jackets and handbags. Over the years, the price of silk threads became

Ron Spector

too costly, so other alternatives were pursued. Cotton threads are still used today, as well as 100 per cent bamboo threads, which produce a silky fabric that drapes well.

Warping the bamboo, chenille yarn.

All the threads are received as undyed cones and the weavers make them into skeins for dying. “The colours are made by dipping the skeins of threads into different buckets of dyes so that the blues run into the greens and browns or other colours. When it’s woven, there is a ﬂow of colours that’s very pleasing to the eye,” Ron says enthusiastically. Ron works closely with the Asociacion Maya de Desarrollo in their struggle to sell their unique craft on the international market. By keeping to the tradition of the backstrap loom, the

Photos: Ron Spector

Preparing yarn for the weavers.

Ronald A. Postings

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Embrace the Journey - A Care Giver’s Story

by Valerie Green The very personal story of her own journey as a care giver to her elderly parents. This is a story which will touch many hearts and be relevant for numerous adult children who, in mid-life, are faced with a similar challenge and must make agonizing decisions and choices. It painfully addresses the problems encountered of ‘aging in place’ and the desire for loving couples to stay together in their home until the end of their lives. 96 pages. Softcover. 5.5” x 8.5” Published by Senior Living. Price $14.95

To order, please send cheque for $19.84 ($14.95 plus $3.95 S&H & GST) payable to Senior Living. MAIL TO: Embrace Book Offer c/o Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Please include your clearly written shipping address and phone number. Allow two weeks for shipping. FEBRUARY 2009

weavers are creative in using new ﬁbres such as bamboo and different combinations of colours in their designs. However, with changes in the international market, as well as advances in technology, it has been increasingly difﬁcult to provide wearable Mayan art at a fair price that would pay the weavers for their time. Currently, the backstrap loom is the slowest method of fabric production in the world. Technology has found it cheaper and faster to produce imitations. Seeking to expand the co-op market through a show-and-

craftsmanship and perhaps, treasure the accessories for themselves.” Ron’s goal, over the years, has been to encourage the Mayan artisans and to preserve their traditional method of weaving. “I would like to see a fair exchange between the weavers and those in the north who appreciate SL the quality of their work.”

Sharing the proﬁts.

sell method, Ron says, “We are looking for people who would be willing to promote Mayan weaving by hosting parties in their homes. This will give women an opportunity to admire the

Ron Spector can be contacted at asocmaya@intergate.ca For more information on Asociacion Maya de Desarrollo, visit www.athreadofhope.com

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Campus Honda 506 Finlayson Street Victoria, BC V8T 5C8 Tel: (250) 388-6921 Fax: (250) 388-7968 www.CampusHonda.com

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E T I S WEB

100s OF ARTICLES • CURRENT MAGAZINES • BOOKSTORE • SENIOR HOUSING GUIDE • INFO ABOUT SENIOR FOCUSED BUSINESSES

SL-TV... Are you a video buff? Do you take videos of events, trips, occasions, interesting scenery, etc.? If YOU have a video that our senior readers would be interested in, drop us an email with details -- ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag. com

Do you get our MONTHLY READERS NEWSLETTER?

Interesting info speciﬁc to our readers, special offers from senior focused businesses, upcoming events, recipes, travel tips, contests and more.... emailed to you directly. Be the ﬁrst to know what’s new at Senior Living. Sign up today on our website.

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Read Us ON-LINE

We now have our magazines available on our website. You will FLIP over our new technology that allows you to virtually turn the pages of your favorite senior magazine page by page, just like a regular magazine. We want to make our website more reader friendly. Email us at ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com and let us know what YOU would like to see on our website. Our website is in transition - check back often for changes, updates, new content... Under Construction: “Ask the Professional” Q&A

Over the months ahead, we will be inviting professions to post their articles on our website for the beneﬁt of our readers. We look forward to turning this section of our website into a valuable informational resource. If you would like to see a particular professional on our website, let us know... we’ll see what we can do...

FEBRUARY 2009

RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY RESOURCE DIRECTORY

RESOURCE DIRECTORY A concise reference guide of services and products offered by businesses and organizations on Vancouver Island

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South Vancouver Island and Ladysmith

Nanaimo Lifeline Program (250)739-5770 or (250)947-8213 Mid Island, Cassidy to Bowser

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Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

NEWS BRIEF

INTEGRATED HEALTH NETWORK

here’s a new health care service in Victoria called the “Integrated Health Network.” In January 2008, a team of health professionals (registered nurses, a social worker, a medical ofﬁce assistant and a dietician) began to work collaboratively with local physicians to support clients living with chronic health conditions. This unique partnership is designed to enhance primary health care services with the goal to improve client capacity to self-manage complex health conditions and promote improvements in quality of life. A free service, it is available to people aged 50+ years that have two or more of the following conditions: high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depression/anxiety or congestive heart failure. To be eligible, the patient’s doctor must be a member of the Integrated Health Network (IHN). The Victoria IHN offers a variety of services including individual appointments, group medical appointments and group education workshops. Health services include blood pressure monitoring, comprehensive health assessments, individualized nutrition advice, streamlined access to community resources and individualized care planning. IHN also works in alliance with local organizations to enhance service access. Current community partners include the Canadian Diabetes Association, Take Heart (cardiovascular rehab/exercise program), the NEED Crisis Line and BounceBack. IHN hopes to extend its partnerships to more organizations during 2009. One in three British Columbians live with a chronic health condition. It is projected that enhancing access to health services in the community will inﬂuence change in health service utilization patterns, reduce exacerbations of chronic conditions and prevent or minimize disease complications. Given the impact of chronic disease affecting the population, it is important for all people to review their healthrelated activities. Maintaining a personal health record is a valuable tool – record blood pressure, blood glucose levels, medications and health conditions, and bring the record to every appointment with a health care provider. Also, be sure to write down questions for the health care provider. Remember, each person is his or her own health expert. Being a part of the Integrated Health Network will strengthen the support available to help those involved lead a healthy and satisfying life. To receive free services through the Integrated Health Network, ask your doctor if they are members of the IHN in Victoria. Physicians can contact the Integrated Health Network SL at 250-519-5288.

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A RETIREMENT HOME ALTERNATIVE?

or many of us, the thought of spending our “golden years” in a retirement home is anything but appealing. My parents spent their ﬁnal years in a “nursing home,” and I am quite familiar with these facilities; both the high-end private ones and the more spartan places operated by public-sector agencies. In addition, my wife was a nurse manager at a publicly operated extended care facility for more than a decade and frequently brought home stories about the shortcomings associated with these facilities. Not looking forward to the prospect of emulating the experience of my parents, I wondered if there was some alternative to the frightening prospect of spending my waning years in a retirement home.

I investigated the options available and discovered there were many; each catered to different market segments. Market segments really means how much you can afford to spend to maintain yourself during the final stage in the life cycle. In Canada, where we have a form of “socialized” health care, those with a meagre retirement income can rely upon the government to subsidize them by providing state-operated retirement homes. Those with large retirement incomes have no shortage of options available to them – some of which are quite luxurious. If you are in a position to spend $5,000 to $6,000 per month, you will have no difficulty finding privately operated retirement facilities where you can spend your declining years in luxury. After reviewing my investment portfolio, it quickly became apparent I was not a candidate for a high-end privately operated retirement home. On the other hand, I was not prepared to spend my remaining years in a drab government-run facility. Is there any alternative to these two extremes? A close friend and recently retired family physician provided

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www.oceanpacificfinancial.ca Suite 101-3960 Quadra Street (250) 727-7197 ext. 260 34

SENIOR LIVING

BY BARRY MAYHEW, PH.D.

a possible answer to my dilemma. On a Caribbean cruise with her physician husband, they encountered an elderly lady who appeared to be more at ease than most of her fellow passengers who, in many cases, were taking a seven- or 14-day cruise to “unwind” from the demands and stresses associated with life in the 21st century. Here is the story, as told by my friend: “At dinner, we noticed an elderly lady sitting alone along the rail of the grand stairway in the main dining room. I also noticed the ship’s staff, ofﬁcers, waiters, busboys, etc. seemed to know this lady. I asked our waiter who the lady was, expecting to be told she was a major shareholder of the cruise line, but he said he only knew that she

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had been onboard for the last four cruises, back to back. “As we left the dining room one evening, I caught her eye and stopped to say hello. We chatted for a few minutes before I said, ‘I understand you have been on this ship for the last four cruises.’ ‘Yes, that’s true,’ she replied. ‘I don’t understand,’ I said. She replied, without a pause, ‘it’s cheaper than a retirement home.’ “So, since then, I have decided there will be no retirement home in my future. Not when the high-end facilities are charging fees up to $200 per day. When I get old and feeble I am going to book passage on one of the hundreds of cruise ships plying the world’s oceans and live out my life in luxury.” The Economics of Extended Cruising I have researched the economics of this alternative with one of the popular cruise lines and discovered I could, by combining their long-term and senior’s discount programs, secure a comfortable ocean-view cabin for about $135 per day, considerably less than many high-end retirement facilities. Allowing for the customary $10 per day for gratuities, you are still much better off. Several other advantages enjoyed by long-term cruise passengers include: 1. I could have as many as 10 meals a day, if I could waddle to one of the ship’s restaurants or I could have room service (which means I can have breakfast in bed every day of the week) at no extra charge.

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2. Some cruise ships have as many as three swimming pools, a gymnasium, free washers and dryers, movies and live stage shows every night of the week – all at my disposal.

3. Many even provide free toothpaste, razors, soap, shampoo and body lotion.

4. They even treat you like a valued customer, not a patient. Oh, and an extra $5 worth of tips will have the entire crew scrambling to help you. 5. You get to meet new people every seven or 14 days.

Leave a Bequest in your Will to Variety - The Children’s Charity and BC’s children who have special needs.

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Senior Living publishes two special Planned Giving editions in May and November. For more information how you can advertise in these editions or in this monthly Planned Giving section, call 250-479-4705.

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FEBRUARY 2009

7. Clean sheets and towels every day and you don’t even have to ask for them. 8. If you fall in a retirement home and break a hip, you will be eligible for Medicare, but if you have a similar accident while a cruise passenger, most companies will upgrade you to a suite for the rest of your life. Now consider what many would regard the best perk of all. Do you want to see South America, Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand, traverse the Panama Canal or visit virtually any other exotic location on the globe? Any number of cruise lines are standing by and ready to show you the world in style. If you enjoy a cocktail or two before dinner or a night-

Photos: Barry Mayhew

6. TV not working? Light bulbs need replacing? Mattress lumpy? No problem. They will ﬁx or replace anything and apologize for the inconvenience.

cap before turning in, you can do it on the cheap. Every port you visit will have a duty-free liquor outlet, where you can replenish your supply at a very low cost. But keep that to yourself. The cruise lines discourage this practice. They would much prefer to sell you the booze they purchase duty free at exorbitant prices. If you happen to die while on board, the ship’s captain or perhaps a travelling chaplain will perform the appropriate ritual before they dump you over the side at no cost. Not only will you be leaving in an environmentally friendly manner, but your next of kin will think kindly of you for saving them several thousands of dollars in funeral expenses. My friend’s ﬁnal advice is the following: “Don’t look for me in a retirement home, just call shore-to-ship but, please, SL don’t call collect.”

“It’s All About Me!” Helen, President of Ballet Victoria & Derma Spa Client

fter years of being in the sun, Helen’s face had developed a few sunspots and broken capillaries. In coming to a medical spa, Helen felt more relaxed and comfortable while receiving her treatments. She was surprised at how easy and uncomplicated the laser treatment was and, more importantly, she is amazed at the results. For vascular and pigmented skin, the Xeo Coolglide Nd:YAG or Limelight will help with smaller areas of the face and body. We can diminish spider veins, broken capillaries and hyperpigmentation. Contact us for your complimentary skin consultation today.

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To Move Or Not To Move?

A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options $9.95

My Patchwork Life

by Patricia O’Connor $14.95

Identity Theft

In Your Good Name by George Greenwood $26.95

The Search For Jacqueline

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Red Tomatoes by Les NacNeill $14.95

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Nude On A Fence

Nature’s Bounty: Why Certain Foods Are So Good For You by Dr. Bala Naidoo $21.95

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by Eliza Hemingway $17.95

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FEBRUARY 2009

GST and Shipping Costs will apply. Please allow 2 weeks for delivery

Courageous s u o e g a r t u O

BY PAT NICHOL

HARVESTING ELDERS’ WISDOM

Photo: Frances Litman

t began like many other wonderful concepts; an idea from committed people who wanted to build community and retain the wisdom of others. It started as a church program to reconnect housebound seniors. Rather than waiting for their eulogies to share their stories, a number of elders were connected with companions, younger members of the church. In more than one case, this has not only led to their stories being published, but also to friendships that might never have happened. Interestingly, all but one of the elders was female. This may change if another book is written. The entire congregation has decided they want to be part of any future projects. What came of it? I spoke with Helen Mau, an elder, and Cyndi Frame, a companion, along with Terry Dance-Bennick, the editor. We talked about the stories, the people and the lives that make up church communities. Helen has lived in many places around the world and to be in proximity to her wonderful energy is joyous. Helen says this exercise has enabled her to write a more complete life history for her relatives. She is now at 65-plus pages.

Long after the exercise was completed, Cyndi still meets with Helen – just because. Terry sums up the success of this journey: “By honouring our elder’s stories, we beneﬁt from the wisdom they’ve gained through love, loss and service, as well as their insight into spirituality.” How many of us have said to those in our lives who have gone before us, “Why don’t we record some of your stories for the next generations?” How many of the next generation have said, “Why didn’t someone get Grandma’s stories before she died?” My father was an amazing storyteller, but all those stories were lost when he died. The concept not only became a book, Stories United – Harvesting Elders’ Wisdom, but Terry and others have been giving workshops on the subject across Canada. If you would like to participate in a group working with your own or someone else’s personal history, a course called Writing & Sharing Your Life Story runs on Thursdays, February 19 to April 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at First Metropolitan United Church, 932 Balmoral Road. Register by calling 250-388-5188. Perhaps this will be your opportunity to build commuSL nity and share your wisdom.

Pat Nichol is a speaker and published author. She makes her home in Victoria, but travels the world. She can be reached at www.patnichol.com

Add some UVic to your life! Participate in recreational learning and community events through Continuing Studies—new courses start throughout February, March and April! • Active Living for Older Adults • Art and the Caribbean • Becoming a Published Author • Coffee Talk • Deep Ecology and Personal Connections with Nature • Exploring Local Foods • Introduction to Scottish Literature

• Life After Loss: New Beginnings • Living Authentically • Sea Tales of Old Victoria • Travel Photography in the Digital Age • Writing the Memoir … and many more! Dunsmuir Lodge on the Saanich Peninsula: • 24 courses available until the end of March!

Learning for life.

Pick up a course brochure at Victoria libraries. To register, call 250-472-4747, or online at www.continuingstudies.uvic.ca/courses 38

SENIOR LIVING

BYGONE Treasures View of Roatan from Valor

Please, May I Have Your Autograph?

hances are good you have something tucked away and likely forgotten that was signed by someone else. No, I don’t mean that awful report card you got in Grade 7, or that cheerful note telling you your cable rates are going up. It’s more interesting than that! Years ago, young ladies (and many young gentlemen) kept autograph books filled with humour, poetry, sketches and reflections on life as seen through eyes still eager to take in all the world had to offer. I see these sometimes in my journey through basements and attics, and make a habit of reading every page, not to be nosey, but to reflect on the directions the writers may have taken, and to admire the creativity they’ve shown. Inevitably, many pages are filled with countless variations of “roses are red” and “by hook or by crook, I’ll be last in your book,” but often, imaginative India ink drawings, watercolours and charming verses are included as well. If you recall having one of these, go find it. Then, if you’re blessed with a granddaughter, ask her to come over (tell her David Cook from American Idol is stopping by, that should work!) and talk about friends you met along the way who wrote in it and created wonderful memories. If you don’t do this, I guarantee that sometime in the future, someone will be fishing your autograph book out of a box and a little piece of your family history will be discarded and forgotten. With apologies to Monty Python, “and now for something somewhat less than completely different” the other side of autographs! I’m as guilty as many in wanting to own something touched by a famous person. I have a collection of signature cards and signed photos of writers, actors and musicians, including Stephen King, Kirk Douglas, Ernest Borgnine and Burton Cummings. There are also signatures of the Lone Ranger, Roy Rogers and Sir Noel Coward. I even have an old wallet once belonging to and with a note signed by the late Stewart Granger. Autographs are avidly collected, and many have significant collector value, provided they’re genuine. If you have photos and letters signed by modern day actors and actresses, current politicians or other celebrities in the news, the odds are the signatures are either printed on the item, signed by a secretary of the fan club or signed by that diabolical invention, the “auto-pen.” There aren’t enough hours in a day for these people to respond personally to thousands of autograph requests. To a collector, the best – and obviously most authentic – signature is one obtained “in person.” Some celebrities, such as actors Johnny Depp and

George Clooney are delighted to provide signatures on reBY MICHAEL RICE quest. Others refuse to sign autographs for anyone. If you have a library of books, check to see if they’re author signed. I once found a rather battered copy of a minor Tarzan novel signed by Edgar Rice Burroughs, turning a $3 book into a $200 book at the ﬂick of a page. When someone passes on, the value of his or her autograph increases exponentially. The main reasons are (a) the person is unlikely to be signing things any more, no matter how nicely you ask, and (b) collectors who never thought to ask for an autograph while the person was alive are suddenly overcome with an urge to pay a high price for an autograph now that the person is dead. The medical term for this is “silly.” What a signature is on can affect its value. A Dr. Ruth signature in a book is worth more than her signature on a baseball. Babe Ruth’s signature is worth more on a baseball. Sadly, your Aunt Ruth’s signature isn’t worth much on either, but could have value if it’s at the bottom of her will. In Victorian times, autograph collectors wanted only signatures, and destroyed historical documents by clipping off the desirable bits and throwing the rest away. Then they stuck what they kept in books, using glue made from elephants” feet and, assuming no one else could read, would write “This is Queen Victoria’s signature” across the face of what would otherwise be a nice example of Queen Victoria’s signature. Bad Victorians! This leads to my usual admonition not to tinker with what you have. If Grandpa enjoyed a correspondence with his old friend George Bernard Shaw, keep all the letters together as they’re more valuable that way. Regarding your autograph book, turn the pages occasionally, and keep it dry and upright on a shelf, not in a drawer, as lack of air will result in you owning a dusty SL box of bran ﬂakes. Comments and suggestions for future articles are welcome and may be sent to Michael Rice PO Box 86 Saanichton BC V8M 2C3 or via e-mail to fenian@shaw.ca Curious to see if some of your old stuff has collector value? Michael Rice will be at the 50+ ACTIVE LIVING CELEBRATION at Pearkes Recreation Centre on March 13 providing FREE valuations. Smaller, interesting old things preferred. No furniture, artwork or expensive jewellery, please! FEBRUARY 2009

AN HISTORIC AMERICAN TOWN LIVES AGAIN STORY AND PHOTOS BY R.A. PROPPER

f you visit the U.S. to sightsee Washington, D.C., there’s a super side trip where you can return to the 1800s and see what life was like in America during the Industrial Revolution. Oella, a 19th century small town nestled deep in the historic Patapsco Valley, celebrated its bicentennial in 2008; a town that time forgot – and then remembered. Technically, it’s a southwest suburb of Baltimore, allowing commuters to work in Baltimore or Washington. Oella’s history is the history of America. The whole town was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and named for the woman who, as legend goes, first spun cotton in America. Spinning textiles was the basic industry in the town until 1972 when American industries went overseas and overwhelmed Oella’s prospects. The town could have drifted into obscurity as so many towns have across America, places that have lost the battle to preserve the memories that make up the character of a people and their society. Originally, the town was established to support a textile mill in 1808. At that time, President Jefferson established an embargo prohibiting importation of cloth made by foreign countries to promote and support domestic textile manufacturing. The first railroad line established in the Unites States in 1827, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, ran close by Oella, transporting passengers and goods to and from Baltimore and Ellicott City, also an historic town. All this industry was driven by the Patapsco River, which boasts some of the finest white water kayaking and canoeing around. The paved Trolley Line Trail follows the original trolley route and is now used for walking, bicycling and even taking baby carriages along to delightful places not seen from the roads. The terrain is a bit hilly, but most of the inclines are not steep. The heart of the town is the textile mill, once the largest in the United States, founded originally as the Union Manufacturing Company in 1808 and owned by various companies until the 1970s. Above, Mount Gilboa Chapel Right, Ellicott City Workers Housing 40

SENIOR LIVING

Many factions wanted to tear down the old mill or let it decay into sad ruins. One man was instrumental in saving it: Charles Wagandt, the great, great-grandson of William J. Dickey who originally bought the town in 1887. Thirty years ago, Wagandt saw that the only way to save the town was to buy it. And he did! A large development company is now rehabbing the mill into high-ceilinged sumptuous condominiums; retaining its interior parts while enhancing its historic ﬂavour. Wagandt, now a senior, still goes to work everyday in his ofﬁces in a converted 1904 church. The church along with many other buildings was preserved and adapted but never architecturally compromised, upholding the town’s mandate to bring controlled development to Oella and keeping it alive and kicking into the 21st century. This is not easy considering the competing interests willing to overlook preservation restrictions as happened to so many American towns. The town’s history is everywhere. A row of 1830’s attached brick worker’s residences near the mill, are situated around a curve fronting almost to the street. They now defy modern building setback regulations, but are allowed to continue Oella’s historic traditions. The workers houses still function as homes for

some of the retired mill hands. You’ll find colourful place names like: Granite Hill, The Hollow, Log Town Shop Row and Herring Hill. Mount Gilboa Chapel, reportedly the only pre-Civil War African American church still standing in the Baltimore area, was built in 1859 and sits near the centre of town. It was originally served by descendents of a community of slaves set free in 1786. An early resident of Oella, Benjamin Banneker, was America’s first African American scientist and the first African American to receive a presidential appointment. George Washington appointed him to a commission for the planning and construction of Washington, where he helped survey the site of the capitol between 1791 and 1793. Today, The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum is a must see, situated on 142 acres in Oella. The Park has a number of walking trails including a Historical Loop around the Museum, an archeological site and a nature trail. On the nature trail, birdwatchers might see the Eastern Bluebird, Yellow Bellied Sapsucker, Baltimore Orioles, Red Shouldered Hawk and many other varieties of wildlife native to Maryland. At the end of Oella Avenue, which runs through the centre of the town, is Ellicott City, founded in 1772. Its historic highlights include the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Station and Museum built in 1830, a colourful historic district with

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A Great Place to call “HOME” To book a tour or for other info:

Peace of mind, comfort and security are just part of daily life at Lakeside Gardens – your private apartment, nutritious meals, weekly housekeeping and caring staff available 24 hours a day.

Our services include recreational activities, social outings and Assisted Living care to meet your needs.

Come for a personal tour, and have lunch on us.

Call 250.756.0799 4088 Wellesley Avenue Nanaimo, BC V9T 6M2 www.Lakeside-Gardens.com

Retirement Community

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Look no further if you have a clock or watch in need of service or repair. Instore is our third generation, European certiﬁed, watch and clockmaker Marek Glodek. With over 27 years experience, Marek has worked on many fascinating and complex timepieces. Rest assured your timepiece is in expert hands no matter the size or scope of the repair. All work is guaranteed and we’re happy to do house calls for larger clocks.

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www.barclaysjewellers.com 106-2187 Oak Bay Ave. 250-592-1100 FEBRUARY 2009

Oella Historic House

antique shops, restaurants, rare-ﬁnd boutique shops, coffee shops, a tearoom and many other points of interest. In July 2008, CNN/Money and Money magazine ranked Ellicott City/Columbia the eighth best place to live in the United States. Adjacent to and linked to Ellicott City via the new Grist Mill Trail Extension, is the Patapsco Valley State Park. The Park winds along 32 miles [51.5 km] of the Patapsco River, encompassing 14,000 acres with ﬁve developed recre-

NEW

BC N IO T I D E

ational areas. Park years of history along the Patapsco Rivrecreation activi- er. The developed areas of the park have ties include hiking, facilities that are wheelchair accessible. fishing, camping, Most picnic pavilions and restrooms are canoeing, horse- also accessible. A one-acre pond in the back, and mountain Avalon Area is restricted to fishing by bike trails, as well those under 16, over 61, or disabled, as picnicking for and is accessible by wheelchair. When you’re planning your next trip individuals or large groups in the park’s south of the border, consider the extraormany pavilions. dinary town of Oella. There are many One of Mary- places to stay nearby and the distances land’s first state between attractions are short. SL Welcome to Oella! parks (1907), the valley and its natural resources have been enjoyed by the Native Americans, explorers, settlers and present-day visitors. With the river’s source in Frederick and Carroll counties, the Patapsco serves the Port of Baltimore, and empties into the Chesapeake Bay. The Park’s Avalon Visitor Center, housed in a 19th century stone dwelling, features Ellicott Main Street exhibits spanning over 300

A Helpful Guide for Seniors Considering Their Residential Options

To Move or Not to Move?

Published by Senior Living January 2009

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9.95

Purchase this book and pick up your free copy of the Vancouver Island Housing Guide for Seniors and Senior Living magazine at any Island Pharmasave store.

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

• Home Instead #222 - 1595 McKenzie Ave, Victoria (250-382-6565) • Medichair Victoria 1856 Quadra St. (250-384-8000) • Medichair Nanaimo 2517 Bowen Rd. (250-756-9875) • Medichair Duncan #6, 2628 Beverly St. (250-709-9939) • Munro’s Books 1108 Gov’t. St., Victoria (250-382-2464) • Paradise Isle Senior Centre 1013 Victoria Cres., Nanaimo (250-754-9566) • Russell Books 734 Fort St., Victoria (250-361-4447) • Tanner’s Books 2436 Beacon Ave., Sidney (250-656-2345)

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

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

Mail to: Senior Living 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 42

SENIOR LIVING

OFFREE FE R*

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Ad size: 4.75"w X 7.25h" Colour: 4 colour Publication: Senior Living (November Issue) Format: PDF 300dpi or EPS E-mail address: TBD Deadline Date: October 9, 2008

The cost of a leaking toilet

1157e_v.1_3 Oct 9, 2008

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High volume water leaks often come from toilets. They For questions or concerns regarding this file contact: are hard to detect and are usually caused by worn or misaligned parts. toilet that continues to run after Sharon Washington 905A522 8589 flushing could be wasting 20-40 litres per hour if swashington1@cogeco.ca not repaired. That’s 175,000 to 350,000 litres per year, enough water to fill a swimming pool. Did you know that a leaking toilet can cost you up to $355 per year?

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FEBRUARY 2009

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SPEAKERS AND WORKSHOPS COSCO On-Going

The Council of Senior Citizens Organizations (COSCO) is an advocacy group devoted to improving “The Quality of Life” for all seniors. Seniors organizations, associations wishing to afﬁliate or individuals wishing to become members please contact Ernie Bayer 604-576-9734 or ccbayer@shaw.ca

ASSUME NOTHING Until May 24

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria stages an ambitious, international contemporary exhibition Assume Nothing: New Social Practice. This exhibition takes place for 115 days and includes sculpture, video-documentation, drawings, ﬁlms, performances, actions, networks, sound works and a theatrical performance exploring community based and socially engaged art. Projects will be located onsite at the AGGV (1040 Moss St.) and throughout downtown Victoria, including Market Square, Beacon Hill Park and Chinatown. More info, 250-384-4101.

INCREASE YOUR RESILIENCY Feb 7

We all have a limited supply of energy. When we begin caring for another person, our resiliency initially relies upon energy reserves. These reserves deplete quickly and there is soon nothing left. At that point, all we can rely on is adrenaline to get us through the crises. This exhausts our bodies. In this workshop you will focus on practical and concrete ways to increase your resiliency so that you too can feel cared for and can replenish your energy reserves. 9:30am–12:30pm at the Canadian Cancer Society, Vancouver Island Lodge, 2202 Richmond Road. $30, Limited seating. 250384-0408.

STRESS, DEPRESSION AND DEMENTIA Feb 28

Stress can alter brain chemistry. Depression is an illness if not treated will result in dementia. After looking at the stress response of the body, depression will be discussed including signs and symptoms, comparison to grieving, why seniors deny having depression, caregiving approaches and the connection to dementia. In the Junior Room, Salvation Army Citadel, 4030 Douglas St. $25 Space limited. 250-384-0408.

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WOODWYNN COMMUNITY FARM Feb 5

Come ﬁnd out the future of food and farmland on Vancouver Island with an exclusive screening of Island on the Edge. Share the Farmlands Trust’s Vision for Woodwynn Community Farm: to promote local food security and sustainable agriculture; to create a community resource on Woodwynn Farm; and to provide teaching and land tenure for new farmers. Meet others and enjoy refreshments after the presentation. 7pm in the David Lam Auditorium, MacLaurin Building, University of Victoria. To learn more or donate, visit www.farmlandstrust.ca or call 250-652-2906.

COMMUNITY SALES BOOK SALE Feb 7–8

Friends of the Library Book Sale: Thousands of titles! Fiction and nonﬁction, children’s books, lots of choices – come early for best selection. Rock bottom prices. Feb 7: 5pm–8pm, $2 admission. Feb 8: 9am–1pm, free admission. 1pm–2:30pm, $4 buys admission and all the books you want! Nellie McClung Library, 3950 Cedar Hill Rd.

RUMMAGE SALE Feb 28

Included in the rummage sale will be women’s & children’s clothing, sewing remnants, household items, white elephant plants, games & puzzles, tools, books, electronics, pictures/frames, attic treasures and more. Refreshments will be available. Sale starts at 9am–1pm at the Monterey Recreation Centre, 1442 Monterey Ave. Proceeds go to Oak Bay Seniors Activity Association. 250-370-7300.

THE HUDSON’S BAY COMPANY IN BC Feb 26

Historian Richard Mackie offers a lively look at the company that helped shape the ﬁrst British Colonies. Free. 7:30pm at the James Bay New Horizons, 234 Menzies St. Visitors welcome. 250-480-1061.

ARTS VICTORIA FLOWER ARRANGERS GUILD Feb 10

Topic: Beginner workshop. New members and visitors welcome to watch. Presenters: Guild ex-

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perienced designers. Garth Homer Centre, 813 Darwin Rd. Saanich at 7pm. 250-655-1524.

MUSIC & THEATRE 63RD ANNUAL PRAIRIE NIGHT Feb 22

The Greater Victoria Police Chorus performs at the Centennial United Church at 7pm. 612 David St, Victoria. Free will offering and courtesy parking. Refreshments will be served after the event. Wheelchair access. 250-384-6424.

KATERYNA Feb 16

A sweeping tale of love and war that is presented in a fusion of music, folk traditions, dazzling costumes and skilled technical expertise in acrobatic, ballet and folk dance. Show starts at 7:30pm at the McPherson Playhouse, 3 Centennial Square. Tix: $34.50 250-386-6121 or online at www.rmts.bc.ca

DUO DELIRIO Feb 22

Nicholas Fairbank and Catherine Fern Lewis in an eclectic and entertaining program. 2pm, St. Michael’s Church, 2858 Mill St. Chemainus. 250-246-2522 or www.smpconcerts.ca

OUTDOORS GARDEN CITY WANDERERS Throughout Feb

Feb 7 – 5/10km walk: Meet at Willows Beach, Beach Drive. Contact Margaret 250-370-5073. Feb 8 – 5/10km walk: Meet at White Spot Restaurant, 1845 Island Hwy. Contact Rick 250-4787020. Feb 14 – 5/10km walk: Meet at Harbour Towers, 345 Quebec St. Contact Brenda 250360-0861. Feb 21 – 5/10km walk: Meet at Petro Canada, 2435 Millstream Rd. Contact Rick 250-478-7020. Feb 22 – 5/10km walk: Meet at Kings Road Parking Lot off Shelbourne St. Contact Wendy 250-598-9390. *NOTE: Registration for all above walks is 9:30am, walk 10am. NEW Feb 15 Ski/Snowshoe Event: Meet at Mt. Washington at 9:30am. Contact David 250-5984316. Tuesday PM Walks – Feb 3, 10, 17 & 24: Meet at Running Room, Broadmead Shopping Centre. Registration 5:45pm, walk 6pm. Contact Gail 250-477-4472. Wednesday PM Walks – Feb 4, 11, 18, & 25: Meet at Harbour Towers, 345 Quebec St. Registration 5:45pm, walk 6pm. Contact Brenda 250-360-0861. Monday & Thursday AM Walks – Registration

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8:45am, walk 9am. Contact Rick 250-478-7020 for current schedule.

MISCELLANEOUS RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS NEEDED TO COMPLETE QUESTIONNAIRES On-Going

Dr. Heather Hadjistavropoulos’ research team is seeking individuals to participate in a study on experiences of older caregivers. If you are currently 65 years or older and caring for someone who is frail and/or has a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, you are eligible to participate. Your participation would involve completing a series of brief questionnaires in exchange for a $10 honorarium. Questionnaires will be mailed to participants along with a pre-paid envelope to return the materials. If you are interested, contact Ms. Nicky Pugh at pugh200n@uregina.ca or 306-585-5369.

VOLUNTEER On-Going

Just a few hours of your time can mean a lifetime of change in another person’s life. The Heart & Stroke Foundation has an urgent need for volunteers to assist with fundraising this year. Please think about making a gift of time to the community this year and call Sue Dakers at 250-382-4035 to volunteer for just a few hours.

NORTH ISLAND CAMBODIA SUPPORT GROUP Feb 21

Pianist Arne Sahlen will perform ragtime/Broadway tunes/classical music at Chemainus United Church.10-11am. Tickets $10, incl. “meet the performers” reception at 11 am, children under 16 $5. Tix available at British Allsorts, 9776 Willow St. Chemainus, by calling 250-246-9102 (days/evenings) and at the door. Proceeds go to post-war reconstruction in Cambodia through Cambodia Support Group. More info: shelaghag@shaw.ca

To avoid disappointment, check ahead to make sure the event you want to attend is still happening. If you have an event our readers might like to know about, e-mail info to ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com

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NATHANIEL DETT CHORALE Feb 14

Back by popular demand for their 10th anniversary tour. Canada’s ﬁrst professional choral group dedicated to Afrocentric music of all styles, including classical, spiritual, gospel, jazz, folk and blues. Pre-show chat 6:45pm, show at 7:30pm. Tix: $42. The Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. 250-754-4555.

EVERLASTING HAYDN Feb 21

While Franz Joseph Haydn, the father of symphony, died quietly 200 years ago, his music lived on. In 2009, orchestras around the world will be playing his music to commemorate his legacy. Guy Few, Canada’s virtuoso trumpeter and pianist, performs the famous Trumpet Concerto in E-ﬂat and Piano Concerto No. 4. Haydn frequently incorporated jokes into his music, and the Symphony No. 94 (“Surprise”), contains the most famous of all. Tix: $42. The Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. 250-754-4555.

KING ARTHUR’S KITCHEN Feb 7

Fast-paced laugh fest in preparation for the King’s banquet. Show starts at 1pm at the Malaspina Theatre at VIU. Tix: $12. Call TheatreOne 250-754-7587. www.theatreone.org

ZONTA RED GALA Feb 6

6th annual Red Gala in support of women’s heart health research and Zonta projects. Dinner, prizes, silent auction and entertainment by Kenny Holliday as Rod Stewart and Bon Jovi,

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events

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evening starts at 6pm at the Coast Bastion Inn, 11 Bastion St. Tix: $60(includes $25 tax receipt from Heart and Stroke Foundation). Call 250758-8792 or 250-616-9143.

VOLUNTEER TRAINING APPLICATIONS Mar 2–Apr 6

Nanaimo Community Hospice is now taking applications for our Volunteer Training session that runs Mondays and Wednesdays. The cost of $125 includes $75 reimbursable after 100 volunteer hours contributed. Call Hospice at 250758-8857 or e-mail shannonf@nanaimohospice. com

BLOOD MONEY Feb 4–21

Nanaimo Theatre Group presents Blood Money, a thriller, at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Rd. Matinees 8th & 15th. Tickets 250-758-7224 or www.bailey.nisa.com

KIDNEY FOUNDATION AGM LUNCH Mar 5

Speaker: Dr. M. Copland, Provincial Medical Director, Dialysis Program. 12:15pm at Oliver Woods Community Centre, 600 Oliver Rd. Lunch $7.50. RSVP: Marian 250-758-4561.

KATERYNA Feb 15

A sweeping tale of love and war that is presented in a fusion of music, folk traditions, dazzling costumes and skilled technical expertise in acrobatic, ballet and folk dance. 7:30pm at the Port Theatre, 125 Front St. Nanaimo. $36 250754-8550 or online at www.porttheatre.com

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Mind GAMES

Crossword PUZZLE Across 1. Energetic 6. Unﬂedged pigeons 10. Section of a wall 12. Bread rolls 14. Pertaining to tannin 16. Ring used in the game of quoits 17. Tree 20. Plural of Mister 22. Class 23. Upper covering of a house 25. Souvenirs 27. Attach by stitches 28. Tribute 29. Continue 31. Not rough 34. Prevented from speaking 36. Wept 38. Flood 39. Founder of Islam

41. Scandinavian troglodytes 44. Having a lip or lips 46. Repast 47. Vase 50. City in E Wisconsin 52. Former capital of Moravia 53. Fly 55. Language of Nepal 57. Yes 58. Sunrise 59. District 61. Engrave with acid 62. Nut-like 63. Lofty birds’ nests 64. Fine

Down 1. Arid areas 2. Disposed 3. Madam

4. Interior 5. Vessel for burning incense 7. Adjoin 8. Floats 9. Long-billed sandpiper 11. Textiles 13. Boiled slowly 15. Turning point 18. Apparatus for weaving 19. God of the Ammonites and Phoenicians 21. Carve 24. Consisting of ﬂowers 26. Sully 30. Bury 32. Shy 33. Made of hemp 35. Herb with aromatic leaf stalks eaten raw or cooked 37. Spruce 39. Sweet dessert 40. Make deeper 42. Alley 43. Inclined 45. Mention something unpleasant from the past 48. Path 49. Female name 51. Best of a group 54. Tributary of the Rhine 56. Very small quantity 60. New York City

ANSWERS

SENIOR LIVING

Classiﬁeds SAANICH VOLUNTEER SERVICES needs volunteers who can spare some time to drive, visit, or call a Saanich neighbour. Call 250-5958008.

Victoria BC V8V 4A1. Toll-free phone line for Up-Island 1-877-826-4222 (South Island dial 250-386-6348). www.bbbvanisland.org E-mail: info@bbbvanisland.org

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE - Would you like a little assistance? Meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, appointments, or respite. We also hire seniors. Call 250-382-6565.

WANTED: Canadian National Park buffalo and beaver plaques, chauffeur badges, licensed driver badges. Please call Rick at 250-382-2283 - Thank you.

NEED A HAND? Or have a senior family member needing help? Mid Island. When you can’t always be there, we are committed, trustworthy professionals specializing in helping seniors lead digniﬁed and independent lifestyles. www. helpinghealinghands.com or 250-954-3733. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY. Rent recumbent & upright bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers or rowers. Details at www.advantagehealthandﬁtness.com or 1-800-661-4737. THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU of Vancouver Island is located at 220-1175 Cook St.,

RUTH M.P HAIRSTYLING for Seniors in Greater Victoria. In the convenience of your own home! Certiﬁed Hairdresser. Call - 250-893-7082. COLLECTOR SEEKING vintage/collectable cameras, binoculars and microscopes. Nikon, Leica, Contax, Rolleiﬂex, Zeiss, Canon, etc. Mike 250-383-6456 or e-mail: msymons6456@telus. net WANTED: OLD POSTCARDS, stamp accumulations, and pre-1950 stamped envelopes. Also buying old coins, medals and badges. Please call Michael 250-652-9412 or email fenian@shaw.ca

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

$30 for 20 words or less. $1.25 per extra word. BW only. Boxed Ad - Small (2.2 x 1.2) $110. Boxed Ad - Large (2.2 x 2.4) $210. Add BW Logo - $25. Red spot color 10% extra. Plus 5% GST. All Classiﬁed ads must be paid at time of booking. Cheque or Credit Card accepted. Ph. (250)479-4705 or toll-free 1-877-479-4705. Deadline: 15th of the month. Make cheque payable to: Senior Living, 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave.,Victoria BC V8T 2C1 VANCOUVER & LOWER MAINLAND NOVEMBER 2007

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SENIORS! HAVE FUN making lifelong friendships through internet correspondence. www.cybercityseniors.com PART TIME SALES POSITION specialty wool store, excellent customer service, independent worker/team player, interest in wool an asset. 250-389-0622.

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Dream Workshop Mary Jane Wilson, MA Mondays, Feb 16-Mar 16 (10am - 12noon) $90 series, or $25 drop in • 1831 Fern St.

250.380.9786 earthliteracies@gmail.com

Call for details.

(250)479-4705

www.livinglanguageinstitute.org • Programs in Earth Literacies •

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Reﬂections THEN & NOW IT DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT!

mentioned to a friend recently that my wife says I remind her of Robert Redford. My friend was silent for a moment or two and then said, almost apologetically, “I don’t mean to be rude or insensitive, but you don’t even remotely look like Robert Redford.” “I know!” I said. “That’s what my wife keeps telling me.” And yet, in all fairness, what does Robert Redford have that I haven’t got? Other than, being tall, slim, blond and handsome, talented, popular, inﬂuential and rich? Take all that away, and we’re both about the same! I’ve been me for over 70 years and I’m kind of used to it. I’ve been pretty lucky too! The only time I ever went to prison was when I was visiting someone. And I never made enough money to worry about someone trying to steal it. I don’t walk too well anymore, but I have ﬁne memories of when I could. I have incredible children and stepchildren, and their children for grandkids. I even have great-grandchildren but, then again, I think they’re all great! I’m an extremely blessed man. I live

in a free society with tons of television shows I don’t have to watch. I can voice my opinions, even though few choose to listen. And I don’t have to get a tattoo. I am overweight and not undernourished, and I can nap with the best of them. (I’ve been sitting here staring into space – contemplating my next line or two.) My wife asked me what I was doing! With great solemnity I answered, “I’m searching; and I’m lost in thought.” “Careful!” she cautioned. “You’re in unknown territory.” (I wonder why it is that deep thinkers are seldom recognized in their own home.) But that’s okay, too. I mean, I have a home to not be recognized in. I suppose to look like or be like Brad Pitt or George Clooney or Robert Redford has its bonuses and its perks: to be beautiful and popular and wealthy and famous, as well as adored, is to have the largest slice of the pie, to be sure. But is it the best slice? I’m sure most young people would cry: “You bet your boots, Gramps! It doesn’t get any better than that!” I guess I might have said the same

Reﬂections, Rejections, “Reﬂections” MAIL-IN ORDER FORM and Other Breakfast Foods Name_____________________________________ by Gipp Forster A collection of Gipp’s humorous and nostalgic columns. A wonderful read for Reflections, �� yourself, and and Other Breakfast Foods a thoughtful gift for friends and family members. Limited Edition

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Make cheque ____ BOOKS @ $14.95 each = $_________ payable to SHIPPING ($3.95 PER BOOK) = $_________ Senior Living SUBTOTAL = $_________ MAIL TO: GST (5% on SUBTOTAL) = $_________ Reﬂections Book Offer 153, 1581-H HillTOTAL = $_________ side Ave., Victoria Please allow two weeks for shipping. BC V8T 2C1

Photo: Krystle Wiseman

BY GIPP FORSTER

thing 50 years ago, or 40, or 30, or even 20! But as years pile themselves on other years, coveting egos and prizes begins to show itself for what it is: simply dust on the wind. I mean, Brad Pitt or George Clooney or Robert Redford can’t simply go for a walk whenever or wherever they please. They can’t just go and take in a movie downtown or go for a slice of pizza or an ice cream cone. They can’t browse a department store at their leisure. They have lots of money, to be sure, but they can’t get joy out of spending it. Then, the more they get, the more they seem to want. And their prison gets tighter and tighter around them, until they start to lash out at what they originally coveted. I may not look like a movie star or have the wealth of a movie star, but I have something they don’t. I have freedom. Freedom to not look like anyone else or act like anyone else. I have the freedom to be me. That’s pretty heady stuff. That’s a lot of wealth to have. It doesn’t rust or fade away and its wealth I can even take with me when God calls me to come in. As I mentioned earlier, I’m a blessed man. And to top it off, I have this beautiful city to wile my days away in. So, I’d say to the young who care to lift their faces from the trough of competitiveness: “It doesn’t get any better SL than that!”

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