SPRING 2007 Issue " FREE A FORUM FOR BOOMERS AND SENIORS IN THE CENTRAL OKANAGAN
Afternoon
Delights
Downsize
& UPGRADE
Mothers Great Recipes from the
Wooden Nickel
Norman
walk a mile in his shoes
Beyond 50 presents
Raymond James Ltd. Ste. 500 1726 Dolphin Ave. Kelowna, BC V1Y 9R9 250.979.2726 1.877.979.2700
co nte nt s
43 FEATURES A Reason to Celebrate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 A Story of Loss & Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Afternoon Delights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Colour Your Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Crime Fighting in the Central Okanagan . . . . . 29 Downsize and Upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Early Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Geocache: the Thrill of the Hunt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Living with Hearing Loss: First Step . . . . . . . . . . 35 Meditation is Proactive Healing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Meet Dennis and Dolly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Mothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Norman:Walk a Mile (or more) in his Shoes . . 42 Publisher’s Point of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Smaller Dogs Adopting Older Adults . . . . . . . . 32 Strong Bones Build Strong Lives! . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 The Non-Interfering Mother-In-Law . . . . . . . . . . 30 The Real Deal: an Interview with Bruce . . . . . . . 44 The Romantic Age at Blueberry Hill . . . . . . . . . . 36 Wendy Klein, Artist/Illustrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
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44 36 DEPARTMENTS
ISSN# 1718-7435 Mail Publication Agreement # 41324527 PUBLISHER - Laurel D’Andrea EDITOR - Jeremy Hoemsen LAYOUT & GRAPHICS - Lori Johnson, Dragonfli Studio SALES & MARKETING - Laurel D’Andrea PRINTING - Mitchell Press WEB DESIGN - NRG Web Design CONTRIBUTORS - Saskia Ages, Marilyn Brown, Tom Cooper, Carmen Denby, Vern Epp, Leslie Fee, Ute Fuhrmann, Vivian Hamanishi, Diane Harasem, Jeremy Hoemsen, Wendy Klein, Vivian Kuhn, John Mandoli, Cheryl Miller,Roxane Nicholas,Colleen Owens,Jeannette Procter, Daniel Richard, Kevin Rothwell, Leslee Scott, Norma Selbie, Diane Solski, Rosemary-Jean Thompson, Steve Threndyle, Rick Wiley, Marion Zacks, Randy Zahara. PHOTOGRAPHERS - Stephanie Tracey (Photography West), Harry Brust, Becky Chapman, Tom Cooper, Vern Epp, Heather Hollingdale, Sheryl Low, Desmond Murray, Kellee Piattelli. Beyond 50 Magazine welcomes unsolicited articles or photos. These items can be sent to 1850 Ranchmont Crescent, Kelowna BC V1V 1T4 or emailed to BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
submissions@beyond50 mag.com All submissions are considered property of the magazine unless otherwise agreed. The opinions expressed in this magazine are the opinions of the authors and they do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Beyond 50 Magazine. Beyond 50 Magazine is published quarterly: September, December, March and June.This free publication is distributed throughout the Central Okanagan (Peachland to Lake Country). Reproduction in part or whole of this magazine is prohibited without the consent of the publisher. Beyond 50 Magazine is distributed to all businesses registered with Canada Post for the Central Okanagan. 3,000 random homes also receive a copy and there are various drop locations throughout the Central Okanagan. (See page 23 for drop locations list.) Beyond 50 Magazine may also be viewed electronically by visiting us at www.beyond50 mag.com We would love to hear your comments. Please send them to Beyond 50 Magazine 1850 Ranchmont Crescent, Kelowna, BC V1V 1T4 or email us at letters@beyond50 mag.com
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Angels Among Us ... 9 Better Business Bureau ... 8 Calendar of Events ... 17 Cheers from the Editor ... 5 Electronically Speaking ... 18 Financially Secure ... 38 Laugh Lines ... 16 Mind Games ... 13 Picture of Health ... 34 Recipes ... 40 Travel ... 10 Surf’s Up ... 13 Sudoku Solution ... 16 3
p u b l i s h e r ’s p o i n t o f v i e w
PHOTO • STEPHANIE TRACEY
LAST MONTH’S COVER:
Nick Stokman with one of his many "fans" after the Dec issue hit the stands.
(l to r): Dallas, Laurel, and Devon.
For many of us, spring is a time to start fresh, plant seeds, and move forward in life. Spring is also a good time to reorganize your mind, and prepare for what the rest of the year holds. Perhaps this year you want to downsize your home. Well, John Mandoli has contributed an informative piece on how to make that happen. Spring break may also be the time you get happy feet and do a little travelling. In this issue, we have a few suggestions that show you don't have to go far to have loads of fun. The Okanagan is full of many wonderful places to visit and explore. March, April, and May celebrate colour and in this issue, we have an entertaining article on what colour can bring to your life. Also, for your viewing pleasure we have a breathtaking pictorial by Vern Epp. Vern agreed to share his gift for capturing nature’s beauty here in the Okanagan. Please remember to take time to smell the roses; when you see something that you feel is beautiful, take an extra five minutes to truly admire it - you never know when you will see it again. Life should be about living, and being grateful for what you have. I would like to dedicate this issue to my loving parents, Phyllis and Alfred Perkins. On January 31st, my mom lost her partner of 57 years, and we lost our dad and grandfather. He was a man who provided for his family, a man who loved to laugh,to tease and joke with all his grandkids. Losing dad was one of the hardest things we have had to experience as a family. Our parents are our teachers, our protectors, and our rocks. They help us grow, develop, and 4
become who we are. The next few months will be hard for my family but the good news is that we have a solid base thanks to my dad. We will help each other get through this difficult time. We will make a renewed effort to heed the advice, wisdom, and knowledge that our parents shared, and cherish all the wonderful memories. We hope you enjoy our third issue; this community has so many interesting, creative people contributing compelling, informative stories. When you have a dynamic team like I do,it's easy to put together a high quality,entertaining, and beautiful magazine. So sit back,grab a cup of tea,coffee, a glass of wine, or water, and see how the people of the Central Okanagan have come together once again to share. Laurel D’Andrea
COVER: Photography by
Stephanie Tracey, Photography West ABOUT OUR COUPLE: Janet and John
Eiswerth are the hard working owners of the Glenmore and Peachland Petro Canada. Their busy lives keep them from jetting off so for people like Janet and John a relaxing alternative could be an overnight stay at Lake Okanagan Resort.
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
c h e e r s f ro m t h e e d i to r
…as my good friend Thomas said, if anyone can survive Armageddon, it would be me.
Those of you who read my ‘Cheers’ from the December issue may have noticed how close some of my predictions were. It was indeed one of the worst recorded winters on the Island, thousands of people without power, highways and road closures galore, down to almost minus 10 some nights... practically Armageddon! But as my good friend Thomas said, if anyone can survive Armageddon, it would be me. And here I still am... I’ve missed the Okanagan during these dark winter days and nights, the distance between Kelowna and Victoria widening as the snow piled deeper. I’ve missed the fresh Tree Brewery selections on tap at Siam Orchid, not to mention Ron and his wife’s deliciously authentic Thai cuisine (not that Ron should be allowed into the kitchen). I liked quick,tasty dinners and a beer at Mickey’s Pub,and the view from the Eldorado patio. I’ve missed the relatively short drive to the Kootenays, to Halcyon Hotsprings and Nelson Brewery, stopping near Castlegar to see what latest type of animal my brother Ryan has had made into sausage. There are countless people I grew accustomed to seeing weekly, if not daily: Thomas, Gena, Melissa, and the rest of the fun, dedicated gang at Great Way Martial Arts; many professors and students at UBC-O and Okanagan College; our neighbour Flo on Fuller Ave, who was never too nosy but just concerned enough with the goings-on of our neighbourhood;good friends like Matt,Scotty and Michelle, Catherine and Isak; and yes, even a few people from work, especially Colleen (of BABS bikinis fame) and Suzanne (who swears she lives in a classy, waterproof cardboard box and she does not fly to work on her broom when it snows). Spending 25 years of my life in Kelowna, there are definitely BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
many people, places, and things that I miss, now we live in Victoria. But the flowers have been blooming here since February 1st; I’m surrounded by four brewpubs and several microbreweries, Phillips Brewery producing an IPA that rivals a Tree Hophead; we have too many favourite dinner spots to choose from, with or without views; I train with a great local kung fu school, with its own opportunities and good people; and I know once my brother comes to visit, we’ll never get rid of him - he just loves fishing too much, and, well, we live three blocks from a little ocean called the Pacific. If there’s fish in there, he’ll find them! The people we care about make a good effort to stay in touch: some have been to visit, while others aren’t too far away through email. When I needed references for my newest part-time job (yeah, editing is fun but it doesn’t pay the bills), many people from Kelowna spoke very highly of me, including (I heard through the provincial grapevine) a retired Kelowna postmaster who I didn’t even use as a reference. Thanks, Fred. The point of this sentimental rambling is that life is good anywhere in southern BC and while I’ll never replace what I had in Kelowna, I don’t necessarily want to. There’s a part of me that feels like it’s still in the valley, especially thanks to reading all your submissions. Keep on sending them in,if for no other reason than to make me feel like I’m home in the Okanagan. Cheers! Jeremy Hoemsen
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Beyond 50 presents
May 17 bring your mom for mother’s day
Limited seating
only 125 available tickets
$20 per ticket • door prizes • cash bar • appies
Tickets available at our sponsors: ROSEBUDS 150-1855 Kirschner Rd. 861-1911 BABS 979-1234 2 DANDY DESIGNS Kelowna Farmer’s Market 717-1383 CHANCES 1585 Springfield Rd. 860-9577 BEYOND 50 MAGAZINE 878-9194
th
Chances from 7 to 9pm at
partial proceeds to the
Thursday, May 17th 7pm to 9pm, is the first annual “Every Woman’s Fashion Show” at Chances, 1585 Springfield Road (beside Rona in Kelowna.) Sip a cocktail and enjoy some appies while taking in a showcase of custom design swimsuits from BABS, jewellery creations by 2 Dandy Designs and the latest fashions which Rosebuds has to offer. Bring your mom for mother’s day. What a great gift! Partial proceeds from this event are going to the Kelowna Women’s Shelter. Only 125 tickets available. Tickets may be available at the door on a first come first service basis. Must be 19 years or older to attend.
thanks to our sponsors
Know your limit, play within it.
Every design... as unique as the women who wear them
ROCK CANDY VINTAGE VOGUE SHELL SHOCKED GLAMOUR QUEEN SHIMMER JOLINA GEMS IDENTITY
# 12 Exclusive Lines # Custom made Jewellery # Stones from around the world # Private Home Parties # Corporate Incentive Showcases # The Dandy Diva Program # Send a Friend Some Jewels delivery service # Private Classes
(250)
717-1383
EMAIL:
bc2dandydesigns@shaw.ca
KELOWNA
www.2dandydesigns.com
Hugo Boss • Hurley • Simon Chang • French Dressing
SHOWCASED
at
FARMERS MARKET from APRIL to OCTOBER
Chances... fun is good! Kelowna’s newest gaming entertainment centre!
New Accessories New Oriental Line Monday to Friday 10am - 5:30pm Saturday 10am - 4pm
OPEN:
Our regulars call us their
“Retail Therapy!” KATHY (left): Jacket: black ostrich feather shorty, Blouse: white harve’ benard, Pants: black beaded Ribkoff with slits down the sides, Shoes: Prada, Accessories: Rosebuds. VALERIE (right): Jacket: Joseph Ribkoff, Skirt: Ribkoff, Boots: Italian Leather, Jewellery: Rosebuds.
Looking for a FUN place to spend your time? Try Chances for your next entertainment hot spot!
Designer Consignment Boutique
150-1855 KIRSCHNER RD. KELOWNA
861-1911 In Business 16 Years
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
We have electronic bingo, paper bingo, new slot machines, live off-track horse betting and a fully licensed lounge with a delicious menu! Chances… Fun Is Good!
OPEN 9:30AM - 1AM 1585 Springfield Rd (BESIDE RONA) KELOWNA
(250) 860-9577
Know your limit, play within it.
7
b e t te r b u s i n e s s b u re a u
As tulips bud so do con artists Submitted by Kevin Rothwell
…any legitimate company that wants your business will be more than willing to allow you the time to "check them out
John Michaels,CKOV and Kevin Rothwell, BBB after a segment on "open line".
Spring is here. As the tulips bud,so do the con artists who prey on homeowners, especially senior citizens. These con artists show up at your door offering a variety of products and services, from household cleaners to magazines, from tree trimming to roof repair. Some may offer to pave your driveway with leftover materials from a previous job, mow your lawn, or remodel your home for a very low price. Oftentimes, these fly-by-night operators will drive vehicles with out-of-province license plates, or set up temporary offices from which they can quickly move once authorities start looking for them. Before you pay money to anyone who uses this type of approach, and especially before you allow any unknown individual into your home, the Better Business Bureau suggests that you do the following: • Obtain the name and address of the company that person allegedly represents. If the person seems to be ‘visiting’ our valley and does not represent a known business, ask for references and contact each one. • Get all details of the offer in writing and carefully review it. Make sure you understand everything in the contract. Any verbal promises should be included in the contract. • The contractor should provide proof that he is in good standing with Worksafe BC, is bonded, and can provide third-party liability insurance. If the estimates vary, find out why. For example,are the materials the same quality? Is the time to accomplish the job the same? • Determine how long the company has been in business and call your Better Business Bureau to determine the firm's customer experience record. 8
• If you have checked references and the company's reputation, and you decide to hire the company, make the cheque payable to the company - not to the salesperson or other individual's name. Do not pay in cash. • If you signed the contract in your home with a direct seller, you have 10 days in which to cancel the contract. Notify the contractor of cancellation in writing by using Canada Post registered mail. Be sure to get a signature showing that the mail was received by the contractor. Do NOT allow work to commence until after the 10-day cancellation period has expired. Remember, any legitimate company that wants your business will be more than willing to allow you the time to "check them out". Don't fall prey to high-pressure tactics such as "this is the only chance you have" or "by tomorrow the extra materials will be gone." If you have an expensive repair, be especially cautious of these offers. Obtain bids from several companies. Don't always go for the lowest bid – in many cases, you will get exactly what you pay for. To check out any business, get hiring tips, or to request a job quote from members: Contact the Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC www.interior.bbbvan.org or 1-888-803-1222 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
• B.C. Landscape and Nursery Association www.gardenwise.bc.ca or 604-574-7772 • Canadian Home Builders Association of Kelowna www.chbakelowna.bc.ca or 250-861-3988 • Worksafe BC www.worksafebc.com or 250-717-4313 KEVIN ROTHWELL works for the Better Business Bureau of Mainland BC in the Thompson Okanagan region, accrediting companies and providing consumer and business education. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
angels among us
Irene Morrison Submitted by Randy Zahara
…the organizational skills she learned during that time have been a great asset. Her experience has enabled her to take a leadership role with the other volunteers at many of the performances.”
Irene Morrison is one of the hardest working volunteers you will ever meet. She has been a member of the Apple Corps at the Kelowna Community Theatre for the past 15 years and has been witness to some of the best entertainment that has ever come through our community. Irene was born in Coaldale,Alberta,but her family moved to Glenrosa when she was ten years old. She went to high school at George Pringle Secondary, but graduated from Kelowna Senior Secondary, as it had more choices of courses for her final year in school. This meant she had to take the ferry across the lake to and from school every day. Irene has spent most of her life in the Kelowna area but she has also lived in several other parts of British Columbia, including Kitimat, North Vancouver, and Fort St. John. She loves live entertainment:one of her favourite plays is, “The Number 14,” which is based on an actual transit bus route in Vancouver. Irene likes almost any kind of music (as long as it is good - no heavy metal). She enjoys a wide variety of plays and cultural events, like the Little Eagles of Siberia Children’s Choir (who performed at the Community Theatre on February 25th). Irene enjoys many of the fine restaurants in the Kelowna area; one of her favourite places to have supper before working a volunteer shift at the theatre is at Kelsey’s on Harvey Ave. She also enjoys Tripke’s,the White Spot,and the soon to be gone Beehive restaurant downtown. Irene has been to Hawaii five times, to Australia, England, and Scotland. One year, she spent six and a half months traveling across the southern USA and Eastern Canada. She enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, like walking, hiking, BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
snowshoeing, and camping in places like the Wells Grey Park and Cathedral Lake areas, and in the Headwater Lakes area above Peachland. Irene’s friendly nature and calm demeanour make her an excellent resource. Before retiring, Irene spent over 25 years working in the banking industry; the organizational skills she learned during that time have been a great asset. Her experience has enabled her to take a leadership role with the other volunteers at many of the performances. After retiring, Irene wrote a book called, “The Early History of Glenrosa” about the earliest European settlement on the west side of the lake. In addition to being one of the hardest working volunteers at the theatre, Irene helps out at her church and with the Okanagan Library’s annual book sale. We are very fortunate to have Irene as a member of the Apple Corps at the Kelowna Community Theatre and look forward to seeing her smiling face at performances for many years to come. WelcometoKelowna.com also likes to recognize special people in our community. Our angel Irene will be featured as the Person of the Day on Friday, March 30th. To view that page please go to www.welcometokelowna.com. In addition to featuring Irene, Dot Com Media has graciously donated a gift certificate to Kelsey’s Restaurant so she can enjoy a meal before she volunteers. Do you know someone that goes above and beyond the call of duty? Or maybe you know someone that just has a great smile. If so, please email nikki@welcometokelowna.com to nominate a future Person of the Day. Then keep watching the WelcometoKelowna.com Person of the Day.
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t rave l
Springtime in abundant Kelowna Submitted by Steven Threndyle
In April and May, hundreds of apple trees are festooned with the snowwhite blossoms, a sure sign that spring has arrived in the Okanagan.
As the sun rises in the sky and the days grow longer, the Okanagan valley emerges from the shadows of winter. Blossoms, wildflowers, and plants burst forth in a blaze of colour. Spring is a fabulous time of year to visit Kelowna. This half-day tour takes in four of Kelowna’s prime agritourism attractions: Kelowna Land and Orchard, the Okanagan Lavender Farm, CedarCreek Estate Winery, and Carmelis Goat Cheese Artisan.You will see that,as its visitors’ guide boasts, Kelowna is indeed “ripe with surprises”. Check in at the Tourism Info Centre to get a map and directions from a helpful staff member (544 Harvey Street aka. Highway 97. Call 1-800-663-4345 or (250) 861-1515 or www.tourismkelowna.com). Kelowna Land and Orchard has been such a major player in the city’s economy that there’s even a major road – K.L.O. Road - leading up to it. They’ve been growing fruit on this 150-acre East Kelowna property for over a century. To this day, Kelowna Land and Orchard is very much a familyowned, working orchard. In April and May, hundreds of apple trees are festooned with the snow-white blossoms, a sure sign that spring has arrived in the Okanagan. Since 1995, the Bullock family has welcomed visitors to their orchard, and they continue to make improvements to provide a quality visitor experience. Kids love the petting zoo and the tractor-driven tour of the orchards, which includes stops to sample the juicy,flavourful apples.In 2005, the Teahouse was renamed the Ridge Restaurant and boasts two new chefs - Travis Hackl and Ryan Smid from Okanagan’s Finest Foods. The new menu features informal, 10
family-friendly lunches and barbecues, using locally-grown produce and beverages, such as the award-winning Raven Ridge Cider (made right on the premises). The Farm Shop sells locally-produced jams, jellies, handicrafts, and of course, freshly-harvested apples and freshly-pressed apple juice. It’s a short drive from Kelowna Land and Orchard over to the Okanagan Lavender Farm, on winding, pleasant back roads offering fabulous views over the lake and up into the South Hills. The Okanagan Lavender Herb Farm is tucked just off Takla Road. You don’t need to go to Provence in the springtime to enjoy the intoxicating scents from this vibrant purple and pale green herb. Over 60 varieties of lavender are organically grown on this one-acre plot. They’re refined into an exotic range of products, including oils, soaps, hand cream – even lavender jelly and dried lavender herbs for cooking and baking. Their lavender lemon cake recipe has been featured in the National Post. No trip to the Okanagan would be complete without a visit to a winery, and CedarCreek Estate Winery is internationally renowned, with winemaker Tom DiBello being the recipient of many awards. Fans of the Academy Award-nominated movie Sideways will note that CedarCreek’s 2002 Platinum Reserve Pinot Noir has received rave reviews; big,hearty reds have truly come into their own at CedarCreek. The surrounding 50-acre vineyard is located on a tilted benchland above Okanagan Lake - even without sampling the wines, the views are breathtaking. The Mediterranean-style wine shop and tasting room features BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
ceramic tile floors, rounded archways, white stucco walls, and a river-rock fireplace. May through October, the Vineyard Terrace tapas bar serves up light lunch fare on a patio: it is perhaps the Okanagan’s finest al fresco gourmet experience. Driving farther south on Lakeshore, you notice hillsides and forests scorched by the Okanagan Mountain firestorm of 2003.The surprise:not only are wildflowers and grasses poking through the ashy soil – the people who lost their houses and businesses have rebounded just as well. Take, for instance, the incredible story of Ofer and Ofri Barmor, who moved to Canada in March, 2003, to start a dairy to produce custom-made goat cheese. As Ofri says, “The valley already has lots of wineries,but doesn’t produce much cheese. What goes better with wine than cheese?” With their original dairy almost completed, the wildfire that spread north from near Naramata in August, 2003, incinerated their almost-completed outbuildings (the Barmor’s house was damaged, but remained largely intact). Showing unwavering determination in the face of such a disaster, the Israeli couple pushed on with their plans and opened up Carmelis Goat Cheese the following spring (2004). Having faced the challenge of rebuilding from the ashes of the fire,the Barmors now have another challenge - selling Okanagan visitors on their artisan-crafted goat cheese. Carmelis Goat Cheese Artisan is located in the heart of the forest fire burn area, on Timberline Road about six kilometres south of the Lakeshore/ Chute Lake Road intersection. Tours of the dairy are offered at a nominal fee and include a ‘cheese plate’of the most aromatic and unique cheeses in western Canada. They even make “hard” cheeses like their Vintage and Toscany products - no bland bricks of orange cheddar here! Kids love the 120 goats that roam freely over the nearby acreage, though Ofer admits, “Since the fire, there isn’t that much grass to munch on.” The hay, alfalfa, BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
and feed, the staples of the goats’ diet, is 100% organic. OK, so you’ve got fresh apples, goat cheese, an award-winning pinot noir, and a bouquet of lavender. Where to go to put it all together? Bertram Creek Regional Park is the perfect place for that romantic lunch. Though most visitors stay on the grassy area just up from the beach, a short hike along the bluffs above the boat dock provides
one of the most panoramic views of Okanagan Lake from anywhere in the Valley. Bon appétit, and enjoy the spring sunshine!
STEVEN THRENDYLE is an award-winning professional writer specializing in adventure tourism and outdoor recreation. His work has appeared in Outside, Men's Journal, Skiing, Ski, Western Living and others. Reach him at sthrendy@shaw.ca.
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Meditation is proactive healing Submitted by Daniel Richard
To learn meditation, you don’t need to retreat to a mountain top.
One of the many benefits of meditation is stress release. Stress release is very important in our culture as we’re constantly bombarded with information. This overstimulation can cause us to feel overloaded and frazzled. Stress is a key factor in disease:learning how to manage and release stress will improve overall health and well-being. Another benefit of meditation is self-knowledge. Through meditation,you get to know yourself better. When you know your own truth, you can create a more meaningful, healthy life that is authentic and fits with who you really are on a deeper level. Meditation benefits most people, from children and grandparents, easterners and westerners, to retirees and business people. Meditation relaxes, increases focus, and raises mental alertness. To learn meditation, you don’t need to retreat to a mountain top. Meditation classes are widely offered these days. Find what works for you. Some meditation classes are purely about relaxing the body; some are more about personal growth and self-knowledge. For the best results, find a practice you feel enthusiastic about and commit to doing it for a while. Anything that’s worthwhile doing takes time...
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Meditation to Ease Back Pain: An Exercise Find a room where you can be still and won’t be disturbed. Make it comfortable for you - include light music or candles. Sit down comfortably in a chair. Close your eyes,start to bring your focus to the room you are in...to your body...to yourself, sitting relaxed in the chair. Imagine a giant tree or anchor lowering itself from your pelvis, going down through your chair... down through the floor, through the layers of the earth... right into the core of the earth like tree roots, or like an anchor lowering itself to the ocean bottom. This is your grounding, your connection to the earth. Your grounding supports you in releasing unwanted energy. Allow your grounding to flow downward like a waterfall, releasing. Bring your focus to that part of your back where there is some discomfort or pain. Start to relax that part of your body as you breathe into it, allowing the discomfort to gradually dissolve. Continue to relax that part of your body. Allow what you are releasing and dissolving to move down and out your grounding cord. Continue with this process until you feel it is complete (usually five to ten minutes for the entire meditation). When complete, open your eyes and gently move your body - enjoy your relaxed state. Practice this regularly. Notice what happens to the discomfort in your back. You can also do this meditation standing or lying down. Healing and health start from within. Our outside world mirrors what is going on inside of our selves, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. If we are feeling well about our inner world, our outer world will reflect that through our relationships, career, and in other ways. When you take a proactive approach to your health through meditation, a healthy diet, and massage, it empowers you to create a BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
mind games
Sudoku
- EASY
more balanced, healthy, and meaningful life. DANIEL RICHARD, a Natural Health Practitioner and certified Meditation & Healing Teacher, offers Meditation Classes, Aromatherapy Massage, Aura Readings, and other forms of healing through Praxis Meditation & Healing Centre and Rainbow Bodyworks in Kelowna, BC. Contact him at 250.860.5686, 250.870.0920, daniel@praxiscentre.ca or visit www.praxiscentre.ca.
Surf’s up!
SOLUTION ON PAGE 16
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13
Downsize and upgrade Submitted by John Mandoli
You can lock and leave without worry, travel without a thought about who is going to cut the lawn and weed the garden.
The kids are gone and your house is looking big and empty. You have become an “empty nester”and now feel it is time to make the move to a smaller home. But before you make this decision, do your homework! You will be learning about your comfort zone. You are used to your neighbourhood - you might even like your neighbours! You have to decide where you want to move. Do you want to be close to friends or family? Certainly, you want to be in a neighbourhood where you will feel comfortable. Is it close to the amenities that you consider important? Consider shopping, transportation, recreation facilities, health facilities, green space and parks, noise, your need for being around lots of people, etc. After you decide the “where”, you need to decide what type of housing you are interested in. Are you tired of the upkeep in a single-family dwelling or do you enjoy working in a garden? An apartment style condo may have all that you require in location and facilities. With this type of facility you could have a safe, warm and pleasant home. You can purchase an apartment at a lower price than other types of homes,freeing up capital,banking surplus money for travel, luxuries, or financial security. You may have access to a pool, workout room, event room, and gardens - none of which you’d have to maintain. You can lock and leave without worry,travel without a thought about who is going to cut the lawn and weed the garden. You can be at home without always thinking about chores in the yard, instead spending time on golf, shopping, or other enjoyable activities. 14
But you may feel claustrophobic with no direct access to the outside. Ensure you can live without that yard. Be sure to consider the “strata”. There are strata fees and rules to check out. What about a house in a gated community? While there are still strata fees and rules, you can use shared facilities. In this type of home,the owners may tend their little yards,but sometimes the strata corporation will look after this. There are people around,there is the sense of security of the gated property, and you may have direct access to a patio and yard. You’ll be able to lock and leave,going away worry free. With any property that is subject to strata, there are rules that may work for or against your life-style. If you do any extended travel, can you rent out your home? What about small pets? Is there parking for your extra car, boat, or motor home? Can you barbeque on your own balcony? How much are those strata fees? You may find the cost reasonable when compared to having a yard service tend your garden and lawn when you are away. “Downsizing” does not mean you need to “downgrade”. You can upgrade your home, obtaining better locations and premium features. Sit down with a knowledgeable realtor to look at all of your needs and options. Before you sell or buy, be sure to do your homework so your decisions will be the absolute best for your specific life style. JOHN MANDOLI, B.Sc., B.Ed., M.A., is a Licensed Realtor with Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty. Call him at 860-7500 or visit www.kelownahomework.com. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Look what we grew this winter! We’re open April 2nd with a variety of bulk products, perennials, annuals, vegetable plants, shrubs and trees available. Come in and get started on your garden.
Ultimate service! Ultimate results! Buying a house is exciting! Sometimes it can be complicated and stressful. That’s why I’m here... to guide you through the process and smooth over the rough edges making your house buying experience a positive one.Let me help you find the next house you’re going to fall in love with... because where you live is where great memories are made.
Kyran (left) AGE 7 Kerris (right) AGE 4
Katana BORN
January 3, 2007
491-4142
Thinking of buying or selling? Call Charlene today for a FREE confidential market evaluation 870-1870
184 Fitzpatrick Rd., Kelowna HORIZON REALTY • 860-7500
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Sunday, June, 3rd 7:30pm At the Kelowna Community Theatre Tickets on Sale at Ticketmaster, Located at the Town Centre Mall On Bernard Ave. Downtown Kelowna or online at www.ticketmaster.ca Proudly Sponsored By The Kelowna Community Theatre and OV/63 Radio
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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laugh lines
The thing mother never told me Submitted by Rosemary-Jean Thompson
I wasn’t going mad, I didn’t have some rare, life-threatening disease - nobody would lock me in a room somewhere and throw away the key...
When I was a kid, I knew to look to my mother for advice, especially when it came to, you know, ‘girl stuff’. I became confident in how to dress, how to behave like a lady, how to prepare for womanhood, how to cook, and how to keep house - at that time, all the things a young girl needed to know about becoming a woman. 40 years later, I discovered my mother didn’t tell me everything. Womanhood was about to take on a whole new meaning – a new journey was about to start, one I had no idea was coming! I suppose my husband noticed something before I did, but couldn’t put his finger on it. My surges of agitation, constant forgetfulness, tears of joy, tears of laugher, tears of anger, tears of... well, just tears. I was hot, I was cold, I was happy, then I wasn’t. Sometimes, I had no idea what I was. I couldn’t multi-task anymore, something I had become somewhat famous for. I was tired more often than not. I woke up in the night with heart palpitations and what seemed like panic attacks. It finally occurred to me: I must be going mad, getting Alzheimer’s, or have some rare condition that would deliver my demise. What was this curse which overwhelmed my life? Up to this point, I hadn’t told anyone the collective of symptoms. I would mention one problem to this friend,and another to a closer friend,but didn’t put the pieces together for fear that someone would figure it out and I’d need to be locked away. When I started to chat with women who were a few years 16
older than me (and obviously much more mature), the mystery started to unfold. Bit by bit, the common denominator was becoming more apparent. I wasn’t going mad, I didn’t have some rare, lifethreatening disease - nobody would lock me in a room somewhere and throw away the key (although women in years past had been though such horrors). If managed properly, I would not only survive this condition - I would find a new journey with hope,promise and,some have even said, freedom.
Sudoku Solution
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
c a l e n d a r o f e ve n t s
What’s happening This calendar of events is compliments of Community Information and Volunteer Centre 250-763-8008 Cheryl Miller and Linda Hartford of CIVC.
MARCH 2007 Kidney Foundation Awareness Month National Epilepsy Month National Nutrition Month 12-18 Community Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth 15-16 CASEY “Safe Online Outreach Society Roadshow” 17-19 Travelling World Film Festival supporting the Kelowna Community Food Bank at UBCO APRIL 2007 Cancer Awareness Month RDCO Community Clean-up Month Parkinson Month 2-28 Kiwanis Music Festival 7 World Health Day 7 Easter Market Presented by Kelowna Farmers’ & Crafters’ 8 Ski to Sea Race 8-14 National Wildlife Week 12 32nd Annual Civic & Community Awards 15 Family Environment Day 15 Strong Bones Walk Fund Raiser 17 Equality Day (Canada) 15-21 National Volunteer Week 15-21 Waste Reduction Week MAY 2007 Speech & Hearing Month Hospice Month Hepatitis Month Cystic Fibrosis Month Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month Medic Alert Month Multiple Sclerosis Month Kelowna Farmers & Crafters Market – May to Oct International Motorcycle Safety Month 1 International Labour Day 1-7 National Summer Safety Week 1-7 National Allergy Awareness Week 3-6 Okanagan Spring Wine Festival 6 Hike for Hospice (H4H) 6 Kiwanis Music Festival - Gala Concert 6-12 Emergency Preparedness Week 6-12 North American Occupational Safety & Health Week 7-13 National Elizabeth. Fry Week
21 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 22 Un/City of Kelowna - World Water Day 29 Dining Out for Life - Living Positive Resource Centre 25 Campus to Campus Half Marathon 25 Taste of Kelowna - Kelowna Curling Club 29-Apr. 1 Daffodil Days Canadian Cancer Society 31 National Shred it Saturday 20-22 21 21-22 22 22
Global Youth Service Day Environmental Mind Grind School Challenge Boat Show at Kelowna Yacht Club Earth Day call Canadian Earthcare Society Super Cities Walk/Run for MS 2007 at Kelowna City Park 22 Champagne Wishes & Chocolate Dreams" at Summerhill Pyramid Winery 22-29 National Organ Donor Awareness Week 23 World Book & Copyright Day 23-29 International TV Turnoff Week 23-29 Prevention of Violence Against Women Week 27-29 Silver Threads – Orchard Valley Quilters Guild at Kelowna Curling Club 28 National Mourning Day (workplace deaths) 29-May 5Bike to Work Week 7-13 7-13 8 11-13 12 12 15 15-21 19-21 19-21 24-26 25 27 27 27 27
National Mental Health Week National Hospice Palliative Care Week World Red Cross Day Life & Arts Festival - illuminArts Lantern Celebration International Nursing Day Canada Health Day International Day of Families National Road Safety Week Rutland May Days at Rutland Ball Park & Arena Knox Mountain Hill Climb Mayor’s Environmental Expo at Mission Creek Park National Missing Child Day High Tea for Hospice at Minstrel Café Walk the World for Schizophrenia Family Fun Day - Parkinson Rec Motorcycle Safety Roadeo 10-5 at Kelowna & District Safety Council 23-25 Central Okanagan HOSPICE Association Linen Sale
www.kcr.ca BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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e l e c t ro n i c a l l y s p e a k i n g
Digital photography 101: being prepared Submitted by Tom Cooper
Often, an award-winning image is not the uniqueness of the subject matter that was captured, but far more the individual, creative perspective of the photographer.”
Ever wonder how professional photographers capture great images? Do they sit and wait for hours, or days, for just the right moment? Are they just luckier than the rest of us? Do they have better equipment? All of these can play a role but above all else - they were prepared! There are three foolproof ways to prepare yourself to take great digital images. Have your camera with you at all times! This is the most important rule. I have both a point-and-shoot camera (light,small,and easy to stash in a jacket pocket) and a d-SLR camera for more serious work. I always have at least one of them close at hand, along with extra batteries and memory cards... whether in a knapsack, in a coat pocket, or on the back seat of the car. No camera with you? Then you've no possibility of taking any shots at all... great or otherwise! It's as simple as that! Too many times, I have encountered the quintessential photographic moment and had no camera! Now that you have your camera with you, what else do you have to do to be fully prepared? Have your camera set appropriately to what you want to shoot and how you want to shoot it. Some questions to ask would be: What shooting mode will best handle what I want to capture? Action mode? Portrait mode? Landscape mode? A creative mode,e.g.aperture priority or shutter priority? Or maybe one of your camera's pre-programmed modes (e.g. snow mode, low-light mode, still-life mode). 18
Amazingly, this deer was tame enough to allow me to approach to within 15 or so feet as it wandered over and around a local golf course. I stopped playing long enough to approach it and snap at least a dozen or so shots. My camera is always tucked away in my golf bag rather than remaining in the car.
• What white balance should I be considering for today? Sunny? Cloudy? Shooting into shadow? Tungsten light? Cold or warm fluorescent light? • Am I shooting into or away from the sun? Is the sun's intensity, or lack of it, a consideration? • Should I use Auto ISO or set the ISO myself? • Will auto flash be of use? Should I consider fill/force flash in this situation? • Should I use matrix (light) metering or would I be better off being ready to change to spot metering or centerweighted metering on occasion? (Just to mention a few of the more important questions you should have asked... and have answered!) Take a look at your LCD display before taking your first shot: be sure of what every display icon and text readout means. This way, you can assess the camera's setup and do a reality check on whether it addresses projected photographic challenges. Also, take test shots before getting down to the serious business of capturing your perfect image. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
If your camera is set correctly to the current conditions... and you're lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, as I was here, then great pictures are yours for the taking!
Hardy Falls, Peachland shot during a sudden cold spell.There is a time to use fast shutter speeds to freeze the action but there is also a time when showing movement is desirable. Here a shutter speed of 1/15th second allows water to blur somewhat and makes a beautiful contrast to the stark detail of the ice and rock. At this speed a tripod is a must.
Always look for golden opportunities in everyday life. I think of every trip in my car as a photographic outing; every hiking trip is an opportunity to capture dozens of outstanding images. Imagine the myriad of photographic possibilities in and around your house: light hitting the dining room crystal in the early morning hours, a sunset from the front yard, the first bloom of a spring flower in your garden. Often, an awardwinning image is not the uniqueness of the subject matter that was captured, but far more the individual, creative perspective of the photographer. Now go out and shoot more pics!
Pine Lighting
1953 Baron Road ~ Kelowna
250-862-3245
TOM COOPER, a retired graphic artist and teacher, currently occupies his time with freelance photography and providing workshops on digital cameras, digital photography, and digital photo-editing. He is also a member of the Central Okanagan Photographic Society. He lives with his wife Jane and their Golden Retriever, Taylor, in Westbank, BC. Still have questions about digital cameras or digital photography? Want to know if I am giving a workshop near you? Drop me a line at tom.cooper@shaw.ca.
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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Afternoon delights PHOTO • HEATHER HOLLINGDALE
Submitted by Marilyn Brown
It didn’t matter if you had two left feet, only that you gave it your best shot and had fun.
I’d like to let you in on my afternoon affairs. It’s alright,my husband knows all about my meetings. In fact, he encourages them! You can quit your snickering and eyebrow-raising - this is NOT one of those stories about warming more than the cockles of your heart! Three years ago, in the never-ending saga of my weight management,I enrolled in a group aerobics class called Fifty Plus at the local ladies fitness centre. When I signed up, it didn’t seem to matter what my age was. But before I’d even donned my leggings and T-shirt, I had to confront the fact that I was edging much closer to that ominous “50/senior” threshold. But onward,I strode into the gym,with head held high! It was a small class,only seven or eight gals. There was an age range of between 50 and late-60’s. I was impressed with the stamina and fitness level these ladies showed throughout the hour class. For the first time in a long while, I really enjoyed an aerobics class. I was inspired to stick with the classes, through winter and summer. With each week, other fitness newbies joined. Friendly conversations developed; soon, we were swapping stories and advice. It was reminiscent of Monday morning water cooler sessions at the office (minus the doughnuts). While this medley of ladies, some retired, some not, had the common goal of self improvement, we were all searching for something more than a typical workout session. As we sweated away to the motivational prompts of our upbeat instructor, there were often outbursts of laughter or singing or dancing. It didn’t matter if you had two left feet,only that
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you gave it your best shot and had fun. I don’t think anything is more entertaining than watching two dozen ladies try to balance on an uncooperative exercise ball, while tensing a rubber bungee cord and singing show tunes. As boisterous as this gathering of women gets, I am captivated with the clever perceptiveness that surfaces while chatting. I am enlightened with family anecdotes and recollections of earlier times. Amongst the gals, there is an honest bluntness of senior issues, retirement advice, and life. There is genuine concern if someone has been missing more than one class: better check up on her. As a group, we share in the loss of a loved one or the excitement of a wedding or new grandchild. There are the running complaints about spouses, an aching this or that, and never enough time for sleep or chocolate. Many conversations have spilled out into the parking area simply because we’re enjoying ourselves too much! Perhaps this bunch of friends is no different than the quilting bees of an earlier generation. The venue is updated but the topics probably haven’t changed so much. It’s about women coming together, sharing experiences, and having a good time. It’s certainly not about your age! These fabulous women I choose to sweat and laugh with each week are my afternoon delights. Maybe after next class,we should get together over coffee and muse on other afternoon delights that come to mind. After all, that’s good exercise, too.
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
A reason to celebrate!
Celebration Singers mark 10 years of music-making in Kelowna Submitted by Carmen Denby
Last year, our Motown concert had guests dancing in the aisles and sparking up their lighters.
It’s seven pm on Monday night. For the past seven years at my house, that means “mom’s choir night”. Monday nights, I make music with a wonderful group of women called the Celebration Singers. We are 25-auditioned female voices who love to sing under the direction of our very own former opera diva, Katherine van Kampen. This year, we celebrate 10 years of music-making in Kelowna. These days, I have an extra spring in my step as I go off to choir rehearsal because I have Cuba on my mind: colourful music,warm beaches,and Latin beats. They will all be part of the Celebration Singers anniversary trip. In February 2008, we travel to Havana for a week of music workshops and performing. It was Katherine’s goal to mark our 10-year milestone with a special trip. With a decade of experience, we have lots to share and we’re eager to learn new musical traditions - not to mention the fun and adventure of a week away in the sun! But before we make our Cuban debut, we need to work on our 2007 Spring Concert. On June 8 and 9 in the Mary Irwin Theatre, we will perform an upbeat, psychedelic tribute to two musical icons: Abba and The Beatles. We will sing and dance in fine attire accompanied by a full band, including our #1 musician, Elizabeth Wocks. She’s been our pianist for nine years. Last year, our Motown concert had guests dancing in the aisles and sparking up their lighters. We can entertain and we love it! BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Our director, Katherine, is the glue that holds it all together. Her experience as a world-renowned opera singer allows her to not only teach us music, but also the art of performance. Her expectations are high - we must memorize all of our music and be polished for performances. These demands can be tough and we wouldn’t have it any other way. On performance night, most of the audience may have no idea how many hours go into these shows (except for our husbands and children, who have been subjected to endless replays of scratchy practice tapes, and hours of dance moves in front of the mirrors,oven doors,or windows we’re washing). It’s special when my two young boys see a different side of mom, on stage, singing and dancing with confidence in a sparkly gown, high heels, and false eye lashes! The members of Celebration Singers come from diverse backgrounds - an 18 year-old university student sings beside an experienced doctor, and a music teacher harmonizes with a retired nurse. One thing we all have in common is our love of singing. And there is comfort in knowing you are surrounded by 25 friends! Mark June 8 and 9 on your calendar and come to see us in concert at the Mary Irwin Theatre. Tickets will be available through TicketMaster. We look forward to sharing another wonderful night of music, fun, and laughter. 21
A story of loss & love Submitted by Saskia Ages
…this country took us in. Canada has always been good to us; we could live here in peace. Now we can do something good for Canada.
This story begins decades ago in war-torn Europe. Eugene Oestreicher was born 86 years ago in what was then Czechoslovakia. He survived a Russian prisoner of war camp at the end of WWII, and made his way to Germany where he reunited with his first wife.In 1956,they emigrated to Canada. Landing in Ottawa, he worked as a photographer until his retirement to Kelowna in 1979. Meanwhile,Johanna Gertrud Helm (neé Sturm) was born on February 13, 1925, in Liebau, East Germany (the town is now part of Poland). Johanna fled from East Germany in 1946 to escape the advancing Russian army. She went to Hanover, Germany, where she met and married Leopold Helm. The couple emigrated to Toronto in 1954. In 1972, Leopold and Johanna left Toronto and moved to Peachland, BC. They purchased a resort motel, running it until 1978. They sold the motel and retired to Lakeview Heights in Westbank. Eugene and Johanna did not know one another during this time. They first met years later when their respective spouses fell ill and were under care in Cottonwoods. They shared the joy and struggle of caring for loved ones. Sadly for both, their spouses passed away. But an enduring friendship had blossomed between Eugene and Johanna. Luckier than most, they married and today share a 22
mischievous, playful enjoyment of one another. The story doesn’t end here because Eugene and Johanna Helm have established the Johanna and Eugene Helm Endowment Fund through the KGH Foundation. Their fund will live on in perpetuity, providing medical assistance to future generations. “We came to Canada with absolutely nothing,” says Eugene, “and this country took us in. Canada has always been good to us; we could live here in peace. Now we can do something good for Canada.” Johanna says their fund will be used to keep critical equipment up to date. “The Foundation is a safe place to give our money. I know that it will be used to help so many patients.” That two broken hearts found each other in Kelowna has taken on special meaning in the Planned Giving Office at the KHG Foundation. We honour Eugene and Johanna for their meaningful generosity. We can only wish for ourselves what they have found. For information on planned giving and Leaving Your Legacy,please contact Saskia Ages, Director of Planned Giving at KGHF. Drop by our office in the KGH lobby or phone 862.4438.
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Beyond 50 Magazine maybe picked up or enjoyed at the following locations: Lake Country A&W Café Caliente Coopers Curves IDA Pharmacy Market Place IGA Pharmasave Wooden Nickel Café
LIST OF ADVERTISERS: 2 Dandy Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A Pure Shade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Alzheimer Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 BABS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 BC Commissioinaires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Bone Appetit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 BT’s European Auto Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Canadian Cancer Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Chances Entertainment Lounge . . . . . . . . . . 7 & 41 Charlene Bertrand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Furniture Heaven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Kelowna Community Theatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 KGH Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 KickStart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Lake Okanagan Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Okanagan Plant Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Kelowna Sports & Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Pharmasave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Photography West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 & 31 Phyto Essence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Pine Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Raymond James Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Right Click Computer Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Rosebuds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Terry Perchel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Waste Reduction Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Watkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Kelowna A & W - Leathead A & W - Gordon A & W - Harvey Chances Entertainment Lounge Blenz - Glenmore Capri Centre Mall Cooper’s - Rutland Cooper’s - Mission DeBeans Denny’s Restaurant Dyck’s Medicine Centre Esquire Coffee Greyhound Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Kelowna Community Resources Kelowna General Hospital Market Place IGA Percs Perkins Family Restaurant Pharmasave - Glenmore Pharmasave - Mission Rosebud’s Consignment Store Second Cup Seniors Outreach Services Society Shefield Gourmet The Haven - Your Breakfast Retreat Tim Horton’s Town Centre Mall White Spot Zeller’s CFDC Building & Deli Water Street Seniors
Westbank A&W Cooper’s Pepper Pot Grill Pharmasave United Travel UPS Store
Peachland Bliss Bakery Curves Marketplace IGA Peachland Pharmacy Serendipity Spa Sunnyside Market BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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Brilliant Blooms Submitted by Vern Epp
I was raised in Kelowna and graduated from KHS. After technical school was hired by B.C. Telephone in the radio-microwave department. My hobbies included cameras, amateur radio and computers. I wrote some technical articles and operated a radio paging company. I retired from BC Tel in 1993 at Nelson B.C.and moved back to Kelowna. Digital photography became my main interest and moved from a 1-2-5-8 megapixel camera. I enjoy beauty in photography and combine them with fractals. I still consider myself an amateur and do not charge for any work I do.
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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Strong bones build strong lives! Submitted by Ute Fuhrmann
…Better Bones Promote Better Bodies and Better Health! Strong Bones Build Strong Lives!
It’s that time of year again when the Kelowna Chapter of Osteoporosis and Paragon Pharmacies Ltd. gear up for the 5th annual “Strong Bones Walk”on Sunday, April 15th, 2007, at the Water Street Senior Centre. This event has helped raise awareness of and funds for our Osteofit Exercise Program. The proceeds help us make it available to all those who can benefit from it. Registration for the Walk begins at 9:30am.Walk starts at 10:00am at Water St. Senior’s Centre. Cost is $15 per person or family rate (for three) is $40. What is Osteoporosis? It is a condition that causes a loss in bone strength and a greater risk of fracture. Osteoporosis is very common: it’s estimated that one in four women and one in eight men, over the age of 50, have this condition. An exercise program can help slow down the bone loss and make muscle stronger. Stronger muscles improve balance and help reduce the risk of falls and fractures. The Kelowna Chapter has a support group that meets on the third Saturday of every month, at the Senior’s Centre in Kelowna (1360 Water Street at 10am).This dedicated group of volunteers promote membership, education, prevention, and advocates for a healthy lifestyle. The Kelowna chapter also has a qualified “Osteofit’ instructor who provides exercise classes year round to promote bone health, balance, strength and mobility. To contact us please call the local Chapter at 250-861-6880.
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Mothers Submitted by Norma Selbie
Mother is the name for God in the lips and hearts of little children. William Makepeace Thackera
M - Mends Clothing... and hearts O - Offers advice... and food T - Teaches right and wrong... and good manners H - Helps us when we fail... Hopes we'll do better next time E - Excuses our flaws... Encourages our greatness R - Receives undying gratitude from her grown offspring! What comes to your mind when I say the word mother? A smiling lady in a dress and apron,smelling vanilla? A welldressed woman, briefcase in hand, straightening the shoes and couch cushions as she backs out the door on her way to work? Or maybe it is a feeling that comes rushing back, rather that a picture: Tenderness.Warmth. Security. Love. I have come to realize that there are many different types of mothers, and that simply bearing a child does not a mother make. Mother’s are homemakers, career women, and volunteers. Women who teach, clean, comfort, clean, discipline, clean, and worry. If you are a mother of grown children (and grandchildren), YOU STILL WORRY!!! It is the one action, which globally binds mothers together. When my children were small, I worried that they would choke,run away,or get sick. I worried that we wouldn't have enough money, that we over (or under) disciplined, that they wouldn't have enough friends... or that they would have the wrong friends. Now that they are grown, I still worry-about whether they are working too hard, getting enough sleep, and putting something away for retirement! And now I also have the pleasure of worrying about my grandchildren. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
When my own mother would come to visit while I was raising our children, she often remarked on how tired I looked. Guess what? Now,when I visit my daughter and her family, I get exhausted just watching her. She never sits down! There is always one more shoe to tie, one more dish to put away, one more drink to pour, and one more mess to clean up! I had a wonderful relationship with my mother. She was hard working; fun loving, intelligent, and creative, and she taught me not to fear the working world. In fact, I suppose she is the one I can credit with giving me that great feeling that "the world is my oyster” I have always been fairly entrepreneurial,even into my golden years,which has made for a fulfilling and enjoyable life. In addition to my career, I have been a wife and mother, raising three of my own and one foster daughter. Have my children made all the right choices, so that their own lives have been problem-free? No. But then, neither have I. Motherhood is more than simply trying to rear perfect offspring; it is preparation for that great event called LIFE. Motherhood means encouraging your children to try, and try,and try again:cheering like mad when they succeed,and hugging when they don't. Motherhood means knowing when to offer advice, and when to remain silent. It means walking a tightrope between freedom and responsibility, joy and sorrow. In short, motherhood is the most demanding,challenging,fulfilling,and rewarding career one can ever have!
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Geocache: the thrill of the hunt Submitted by Dianne Harasem
After dropping the measuring tape into the box, we closed the lid tightly, and put it back in exactly the place we had discovered it.
A month prior to our daughter’s 35th birthday, we phoned to ask what she would like. Usually, she says she doesn’t need anything but this time was different. “A GPS!” “What on earth do you want one of those for?”we asked. “I want to search for treasures,”she replied. Apparently, through the web, you can search around the world for a treasure someone has buried. Once you have found the “cache”, you open the lid to find out what was left behind,sign a book,indicate what you’ve taken out,and the article you’ve replaced it with. Lori received a GPS for her birthday (though not from us). After Lori, Duane and Lori’s two sons (Seth and Levi) scouted out their first cache,we had a phone call telling us all about it. That was it. I wanted to go “caching”with them. Fresh air, hiking, searching, digging, and finding a hidden treasure all seemed exciting to me. We took the car, the GPS tightly gripped in Lori’s hand. She directed me down a road in Rutland. We found a parking spot, jumped out of the car, and headed across a ditch into waist-high weeds. Now why didn’t I wear runners? Sandals don’t cut it when you are geocaching! Into more and more weeds. We were close! The tension rose. Who would spot the hidden box first? One of the boys cried out, “I found it!” I was sooo disappointed. I thought that since this was my first outing, I would surely have the honour of spotting it. Oh well,I could finally look into my first geocache container. 28
We pried open the lid: a book was inside. Make sure to record your name,city,and date (this is very important,I was told). Then check out the goodies. The boys were allowed to take out one item each but had to put something back. Not being properly prepared for this hike, I was carrying my purse. But it was perfect - I always have lots of stuff in there. What could I leave? Not my driver’s license, or my lipstick, notebook,nail file,or keys. But wait! I had been shopping for a piece of furniture and my measuring tape was still in the bottom of the endless bag. It was one article I could part with. After dropping the measuring tape into the box, we closed the lid tightly, and put it back in exactly the place we had discovered it. We went back through the weeds, and through the ditch to the car. That was my first geocache! Now, I’m hooked. A couple of days later, we were swimming at Sunoka Beach. Lori asked if we would stay with the boys while she and Duane went geocaching in Peachland. “What? And leave me behind!” I was torn. Stay with my grandsons, whom I love dearly and can’t get enough of, or go geocaching? Seth and Levi won out. Building sand castles is fun,splashing each other in the lake is exhilarating, eating sand-filled treats is wonderful. But the whole time, I was wondering, “What are those two finding on their treasure hunt?” I think it’s in my blood...
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Crime fighting in the Central Okanagan Submitted by Roxane Nicholas
Making the community safer and more connected gives an individual a feeling of empowerment and pride.
2007 is an exciting year for Crime Stoppers in the Central Okanagan - they are celebrating serving the community for 20 years! Since 1987, they have received over 12,000 tips and have cleared more than 2,700 cases. They’ve given over $188,556 in rewards and have recovered more than $52,264,000 in property and drugs. What this means is the members of our community have affirmed a commitment to keeping the Central Okanagan a safe and healthy place to live. This involves a partnership between law enforcement agencies, the media, local government, sponsors, and the public. Play an integral role by familiarizing yourself with your community, your neighbours, and the regular activity in your area. If you are aware of criminal activity, you can call the Crime Stoppers’ anonymous tipsline at 1-800-222-TIPS. If you are uncomfortable calling the tipsline, you can also submit a tip at www.tipsubmit.com and follow the links. This online tool is completely anonymous. Everyone in the community is a valuable resource for fighting crime, regardless of age. Making the community safer and more connected gives an individual a feeling of empowerment and pride. Tipsters are a fundamental part of the Crime Stoppers program, and can be secure in the knowledge that any tips that they do give are completely anonymous and confidential. If a tip leads to an arrest, the tipster may be eligible for an award of up to $2,000. Visit your Crime Stoppers website at www.crimestoppers.net.
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The non-interfering mother-in-law Submitted by a mother-in-law • no names used to protect the innocent
You know guys, I don’t want to interfere. It’s your wedding and your day. But…
“We’ve picked a date”, my daughter announced with sparkling eyes. I looked up from my crossword puzzle, smiling at the couple. Megan and David had recently announced their engagement. I was glad to hear they weren’t going to drag the engagement out, prolonging the time until the big day. Putting my pen aside, I eagerly asked them questions. Hands joined, the young couple shared their carefully thought-out plans. I suppressed a smile when they pulled out a spread sheet with all the wedding details carefully outlined. My future son-in-law had just graduated with a degree in Business, while my daughter was pursuing her goal to become a school teacher. It looked as though the university education was paying off - the wedding plans were the most organized I had ever seen! Scanning the information, I felt a sense of relief. Details about the church, reception venue, flowers, music, bridal shops - it was all there in perfect order. This was going to be a cinch! I recalled stories of friends who had gone through the wedding planning process in the past few months and I felt a sense of relief. My organized daughter and her efficient fiancé were going to make it easy for me. I started to put the spreadsheet aside when I noticed one omission. “What about the photographer?”I asked. “Oh,we’re going to use the one that Candace and Jeremy used,”Megan replied.“Their outdoor pictures were really good.” That sounded sensible. I was determined not to be an 30
overwhelming future mother-in-law: if they liked their friend’s wedding photographs, that was good enough for me. But while I nodded my head in agreement, I had a flashback to nearly 30 years ago. Back to my own wedding day. My special day was in the 1970’s. As a journalism major in the days when it was still considered unique for women to study journalism, I was determined to continue carving my niche as a non-traditional career woman. I was not going to have a traditional wedding: pictures had to be outdoors; everything had to be very casual. The wedding plan sounded good but I learned that things aren’t always as good as they sound. Despite my belief that “September in the Okanagan is always sunny,”my wedding day arrived with wild gusts of wind and pouring rain. Having no choice, we soldiered on, took some pictures outside, tried for family shots in the small overheated church and in the poorly lit reception hall. Bringing myself back to the present,I noticed Megan and David staring at me in confusion. My face must have reflected the memories of regret and disappointment, the tragedy of my motley assortment of ‘professional’ photographs. “You know guys, I don’t want to interfere. It’s your wedding and your day. But have you thought about if it rains? What’s the photographer’s back up plan? What if it’s windy? What if another wedding is being photographed in the same park? Where will Great Grandma sit while she BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
waits for the family pictures?” Embarrassed, I stopped. I was on the verge of interfering. But my 30 year old memories of disastrous wedding photos seemed like yesterday. My wedding dress was cleaned and stored for preservation, my flowers pressed and dried, my rings still sparkle on my finger. But the most important memories of that day are a collection of images with rain-streaked backgrounds and windblown hair. Fortunately for Megan and David, their story will be different. It didn’t take much to drive my point home - all I had to do was show them my wedding album. After they got over how young her dad and I looked,David picked up the phone book. He was looking for a professional photographer who had a studio. Smiling with relief,I was determined to continue on my quest to avoid becoming an interfering mother-inlaw. But sometimes, you just have to say something...
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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Smaller dogs adopting older adults Submitted by Colleen Owens
PHOTO • KELLEE PIATTELLI
Feeding a small dog is gentler on the bank account…
PHOTO • SHERYL LOW
“We give dogs time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It's the best deal man has ever made.” M. Acklam Dogs provide people of all ages with unconditional companionship: this is medically proven to be emotionally and physically beneficial. For a number of practical reasons, many adults in their later years choose dog breeds that are smaller in size. The Toy Group (a category recognized by registries like the Canadian and American Kennel Clubs) includes dog breeds that have been primarily developed as pint-sized companions. Some Toys are scaled down versions of other breeds, retaining the same characteristics as their larger counterparts. The playful, intelligent, and spirited Yorkshire Terrier is the most popular of the Toy breeds (American Kennel Club, 2007). Like the Toy Group, small breeds are enjoying an increase in popularity and with good reason (small breeds are those that weigh less than 20 lbs, such as the Cairn Terrier, Bichon Frise, and Dachshund). The desire to share your life with loving canine companions 32
must be balanced with other considerations. If you reside in strata managed condominiums, townhouses, or apartments, rules dictate the acceptable size of a dog. Small breeds meet those restrictions while offering many options to match the lifestyle of the older adult. The home with a small breed doesn’t need to be as “dog-proofed”as it would with an overly-curious, counter-surfing large breed. Small breeds can be easier to walk as they are not as powerful as their larger cousins, although their exercise needs can be deceiving,since some smaller breeds demand more exercise than some of the giant breeds. As watchdogs, the smaller breeds are just as effective, sometimes more so (although they may not be as much of a physical threat). When travelling, you can usually place your small dog in the care of friends and family they are easier to manage and require less space.For those who enjoy travelling with their dogs, the smaller breeds are able to fly in the plane cabin and are more likely to be accepted in hotel rooms. Feeding a small dog is gentler on the bank account, as are any of their grooming needs BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
and they are easier to load into a vehicle for veterinary trips. When choosing to adopt a dog, make an educated decision by researching the breed characteristics, average size, health concerns, grooming, and exercise requirements. You won’t regret it.
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Watch for the
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p i c t u re o f h e a l t h
Helping Thelma:
the benefits of private MRI Submitted by Jeannette Procter (with help from Mike Large & Terri Ponich)
PHOTO • COURTESY OF IMAGE ONE
Our health is our most precious asset. Sometimes we need to spend a little to help keep our bodies healthy.
At 61, Thelma lived to golf; five days a week, she’d be found on the golf course. As the Ladies’ Club Captain at her local golf club, and reigning champion, she combined fun with competition. The fall would find Thelma and her golfcrazy husband, Max, at some balmy golf destination south of the border, doing what they loved best. In September, in a brief, single moment, everything changed for Thelma. A quick turn of the ankle landed her in a heap at the bottom of her basement stairs. A trip to Emergency and a few x-rays later... thankfully, nothing was broken. Thelma’s shoulder was not healing as quickly as she,golfstarved and grouchy, desired. Her doctor and physiotherapist agreed that by now she should have had much greater mobility in her shoulder, and were concerned about her nagging pain. Perhaps there was soft tissue or ligament damage that just didn’t show up on the x-ray. He advised her that an MRI might help find the answer. The local MRI clinic (Image One MRI) could see her within two days. The MRI revealed a tear in one of the ligaments of Thelma’s shoulder, explaining why her arm was still very painful. MRI shines in its ability to provide beautiful detail of soft tissue. The radiologist, who interprets the images, can identify abnormalities,determine whether they are cystic or fatty, blood or fluid, and in certain cases, whether they are benign or malignant. Just as importantly, the radiologist can confirm that everything is normal. As Thelma discovered, the MRI exam is painless and 34
doesn’t involve any radiation. Each MRI is tailored to a specific area of the body, producing detailed images of that area. While the technologist takes lots of images at different angles, the client is made comfortable, relaxing with some music. Some even doze off. MRI has become the diagnostic imaging tool of choice of many doctors because of the amazing information that can be provided. However, this demand has put tremendous pressure on local health authorities, resulting in growing waiting times for MRI appointments. Private MRI clinics can play a supporting role in the community, by easing some of this pressure and offering an alternative for those wanting answers to their health issues more quickly. Someone deciding to have a private MRI might help the hospital system by making another appointment space available. It’s as simple as talking it over with your family doctor to find out whether a MRI scan may be helpful for you. Our health is our most precious asset. Sometimes we need to spend a little to help keep our bodies healthy. Life is too short for waiting around in pain and being miserable. Thelma’s quick diagnosis helped get her on the surgical list for the ligament repair. Although she had to dip into her “new golf club fund” to pay for her MRI, she doesn’t care. She’s happy, looking forward to swinging her trusty old clubs and getting her life back!
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Living with hearing loss: first step Submitted by Leslee Scott
Faking doesn’t fool anyone except the person who is doing the faking.
People don’t like admitting to hearing loss. But I tell people I have hearing loss and then I am accommodated. This is better than someone thinking,“Boy, she’s not swift!” Coming to terms with hearing loss is a personal thing, dependent on individual circumstances. Some accept it readily enough and become proactive, purchasing a hearing aid, being upfront with family, friends and coworkers, and taking other steps to deal with it. Others will deny it, ignore the effects it has on themselves and others, and withdraw from society. Faking doesn’t fool anyone except the person who is doing the faking. More often than not, hard of hearing people don’t know when they didn’t hear correctly. Here are some basic tips for people to deal with hearing loss in a healthier and proactive manner. 1. Admit to a hearing loss as early as possible. Have it checked. (When eyesight diminishes, people do not have qualms about buying glasses, as they are fashionable). Manufacturers work at making hearing aids more “acceptable”. Accept the recommendations from the audiologist. The smallest, in-the-canal aid may only help people with certain types of hearing loss but the audiologists know what is suitable given people’s type and
severity of hearing loss. With new technology coming out on a regular basis,there is something available for everyone. 2. Once fitted with a hearing aid, you need to work with the audiologist/hearing aid dispenser to get the right fit and improved quality of sound. For the amount of money you pay, you are entitled to a number of return visits for finetuning digital hearing aids. I kept a list of my problem areas (what was too loud,not loud enough,not clear,metallic,etc.) to help them reprogram my aid-it took me several visits before I was satisfied. Saying, “The hearing aid is not working,” and putting it in the drawer does not help you. If your hearing loss has been progressive over the years, it takes time for the brain to relearn to hear and understand. Perseverance, patience, and practice is important. Start in quiet settings for short periods of time and build up your tolerance to sound again. 3. Be realistic about your expectations for the hearing aids: they do not restore perfect hearing; they DO make improvements to your quality of life. Discuss your needs with the audiologist (i.e. work, social life, recreation, family) and what you expect from your hearing aid. 4. Yes, they are expensive. Unfortunately, there is limited continued on page 39
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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The romantic age at Blueberry Hill Submitted by Vivian Kuhn
Her organizational and marketing skills, plus her determination, had her presenting her paintings and reproductions to the public in a very short time…
Vivian and Al Kuhn are enjoying their second life in the ‘Romantic Age’ at Blueberry Hill. They met more than 50 years ago. Al, the newly-minted school principal at Ellison Elementary, had found a comfortable place to board with Edith and Arthur Geen, Vivian’s parents. This was the homestead where Arthur and his brothers and sisters had grown up. (They’d established a pear orchard in 1904 at the corner of Old Vernon Road and Scotty Creek Road and had attended the Ellison School. The original Geen home is still there, with some modifications.) Vivian was at home but headed off to University the next week. Her brother Gerald was still in high school so Al was to be ‘big brother’. Having gone their own ways, Vivian and Al married other people and raised families but kept in touch as family friends.Al continued a very successful career in teaching and administration in Kelowna, Keremeos, and Vernon. Fulton High School in Vernon was his last posting. Upon retirement, Al designed and built a superb log home on property he had held for nearly 30 years, using logs from the property. (Vivian’s artistic skills have played a part in the decorating of their home.) Vivian had a very successful career as a primary school teacher for 15 years. Vivian’s students greatly benefited from her interest in children’s paintings. She set up the first class for children with learning disabilities in Maple Ridge in 1973. This brought her to work in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser
University for a year. When she moved to Victoria in 1977, she decided she would enjoy being a Realtor. Her organizational and people skills put her in the top 5% of Realtors there for 14 years. But life has many twists and turns. When her older brother, Glen, died at 56, she decided it was time to pursue a different career, one that had seemed impractical many years before. Vivian had always said she would be an artist. She decided that if she was ever going to be an artist, this was the time. At age 55,she had the opportunity to attend a week long workshop on watercolour painting with an international teacher. She was instantly hooked, painting late into the night or early morning! Her teacher kept remarking to the class that he couldn’t believe what he was seeing; he could hardly wait to see what this lady would be doing two years from then. As they bid farewell, he admonished her to paint and paint and never stop! Vivian stepped forward into a new life with faith and courage. She was going to be a full-time artist! Her organizational and marketing skills, plus her determination, had her presenting her paintings and reproductions to the public in a very short time (she’d assessed the continued on page 39
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Colour your life Submitted by Marion Zacks
Orange helps us release stress and supports balanced thinking; this helps us use our practical and creative abilities. It helps us enjoy life and have fun.”
March is when we can really focus on Spring being here. Nature has woken up, the birds are singing, the sky is clear, and the sun is shining. Showers of rain cleanse the earth and refresh us - the world is alive and thriving again. Take a moment or two to look at nature’s rainbow colours, reminding us how amazing and beautiful life really is! The blue sky, the yellow of sunshine, the multi-coloured spring flowers, the shades of green in the new leaves and growing grass. Think of the colours in the foods we eat. We often don’t remember that colours are scientifically measurable wavelengths of energy. All living beings need that energy, not just to survive but to support our vitality and wellbeing. Colour is fragmented light; vibrational wavelengths within the visible portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. It nourishes and communicates on many different levels. Our subconscious recognizes this, responding as colour creates instant impact. Being attracted or repelled by specific colours affects our moods and our well-being. Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. Visualize each colour of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet). Imagine the colours to be in a liquid form and that you are literally going to fill your ‘tanks’ up with liquid colour. But before you start filling your ‘tanks’,
have a look at them individually - how much red liquid you have in your red tank, how much orange in your orange tank,etc. You may be surprised how little you have of some of the colours initially. Take your time and fill up your tanks until full. Make a mental note of how you feel after this exercise and for the rest of the day. If you feel energized, practise it every day. Try other colours as well. Notice, visualize, and absorb Nature’s colours any time. Red supports vitality and passion; it helps us get on with the job at hand and helps us restore our energy. And it’s not just a ‘doing’colour;it also helps us stop,rest and regenerate. Look at those luscious red berries, succulent tomatoes, and peppers. Orange helps us release stress. It supports balanced thinking, helps us use our practical and creative abilities. It helps us enjoy life and have fun. Think of orange pumpkins, carrots, and oranges. Yellow supports mental clarity-mentally working-out! It supports us as we react to everyday experiences, helping us release anxieties and fears. If you are feeling nervous or frightened, think yellow! Remember the yellow foods like continued on page 39
BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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f i n a n c i a l l y s e c u re
Charitable donations upon death to reduce tax Submitted by Leslie Fee
This tax credit has completely eliminated the tax liability on the shares at death and the value of the estate is preserved.
Until 1996, charitable donations weren’t a major consideration as a means of reducing taxes in the year of death. This is because the amount eligible for the donation tax credit was limited to a maximum of 20% of the individual’s net income for the year, with a one-year carryback. Since 1996, the rules have been amended to allow charitable donations of up to 100% of net income to qualify for the tax credit in a taxpayer’s year of death, with excess donations still eligible for the one-year carry-back. The 2000 Federal Budget allowed donors to name charities as beneficiaries and as such, be entitled to a full tax credit when the death benefit is finally paid to the charity. These changes made planned giving using life insurance very attractive to potential donors. These tax changes give rise to a major estate planning opportunity. EXAMPLE: A father who owns a family farm wishes to gift the shares to his children through a provision in his will. He would like to eliminate the capital gains taxes payable at his death in respect of the shares. When he passes away, the taxable capital gains reportable on the shares upon death is $500,000. Tax owing on this amount is $250,000 (assuming a 50% marginal tax rate). SOLUTION: A life insurance policy for $500,000 payable to a selected charity. A clause directing his personal representative(s) to make any election under the Income Tax Act to reduce taxes. RESULT: At death, the life insurance proceed will be paid directly to the charity and will be considered a donation by the father in the year of death. The tax receipt issued for the 38
donation by the charity will qualify for a tax credit that can be used in the deceased’s tax return. This tax credit has completely eliminated the tax liability on the shares at death and the value of the estate is preserved. The premiums for the life insurance are paid with relatively small percentage of the funds that would otherwise have been used to pay the taxes owing. (Though it should be emphasized that it would require less life insurance coverage to simply pay the taxes owing at death, as compared to using the life insurance proceeds for charitable donations to eliminate the tax liability). By naming the charity as the beneficiary of the life insurance policy owned by the donor, the proceeds are not exposed to probate fees as prescribed under the applicable provincial rules. Creditors of the donor have no right to the funds payable under the policy if the donor dies indebted. The use of life insurance in the context of charitable giving at death will appeal to those individuals who want to reduce or eliminate taxes at death and/or who have a strong desire to make a bequest to one or more charities. This opportunity should be considered in the bigger context of planned giving options that are available to the prospective donor both during his or her lifetime and at death. LESLIE FEE is a Financial Security Advisor and Investment Representative with Freedom 55 Financial/Quadrus Investment Services. Member of Life Underwriters Association of Canada, member of Advocis and Member of Million Dollar Round Table. Email: leslie.fee@freedom55financial.com or phone (250) 763-1114 Ex 233. The above should not be taken as providing legal, accounting or tax advice. You should obtain your own independent professional advice from your lawyer and/or accountant to take into account your particular circumstances BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
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financial support for seniors. This may change as the government recognizes a need for support assistance for lowincome seniors, with costs for things such as hearing aids (summary report of Premier’s Council on Aging and Senior’s Issues, Dec 1/06). The Canadian Hard of Hearing Association, BC Chapter, continues to lobby on behalf of seniors. See Next Issue: Communication Strategies
purchasers of art and realized that many people would enjoy art, but not all could afford originals).Her collectors smile and chuckle at her vibrant colours and whimsical folk art interpretation of the world; ‘Valentino’, an irreverent seagull, turns up in most of her paintings. Then a wonderful thing happened! Al and Vivian were both on their own after nearly 40 years. They married and began their second life. They are grateful for the wonderful 12 years they have shared at Blueberry Hill and hope they can have many more! ‘Grandma Vivian’ (with four children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren) always teases Al about meeting in 1953 but not proposing until 1994! They are truly enjoying their romantic age!
grapefruits, lemons, bananas, and corn. Green - Nature’s blanket surrounding us with grass and green leaves. Green is about balance and being true to ourselves. It helps us process information with under-standing and discernment. There’s a profusion of green food - grapes, apples, kiwis, avocados, limes, cabbage, broccoli, sprouts, peas, beans, and much more. Blue supports peace, calmness and communication, helping us go with the flow, following our inner direction, while violet helps us with motivation, co-ordination, change, and absorbing information. Violet also helps quiet the mind when we can’t sleep or need to wind down. Nourish yourself with colour. Let’s bring more light and colour into our lives!
Visit VIVIAN’S world at: Blueberry Hill Gallery 766-0525 • 4000 Glenmore Road North,Kelowna, BC or www.viviansworld.com.
For more information, go to www.aratavacolour.com or email mail@aratavacolour.com.
LESLEE SCOTT is a rehabilitation counselor with the Western Institute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (WIDHH) in the Okanagan branch since 2003. She is hard of hearing from birth and has worked with hard of hearing and deaf people since 1983. She and Bolder,her Dogguide for the hearing impaired, travel around BC assisting people in their workplaces, working with clients to develop career goals and obtain employment, and she has started to teach Living with Hearing Loss this January, a much needed program for the many individuals with hearing loss. She can be reached at work 250 763-3562 or by email (preferred) at lscott@widhh.com ; www.widhh.com
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www.kelownaaccountants.com BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
39
re c i p e s
Everyone’s favourites! Submitted by Rick Wiley & Diane Solski
Here are two tasty recipes that are worth more than a “Wooden Nickel.”
Rick Wiley and Diane Solski are the owners of the Wooden Nickel Café in Lake Country. Diane had previously owned the Time Out Café in Pentiction for seven years and suddenly found herself in Princeton, BC.This is where Diane met Rick; seven years ago and together they realized their mutual love of food. Diane obtained a Management job with a retail company in Kelowna and thus they moved to Lake Country.It was a good job but still the love of food and the desire to have a place of their own was there. The Wooden Nickel Café came up for sale and they couldn’t resist the temptation. The café had all the elements of a wonderful venture but needed some fine-tuning and a lot of TLC. They enjoyed their new clientele, who are these on a daily basis, the new friends they have made and cooking good food for people they care about.The business also does catering for events, meetings, weddings, etc.which really gives Diane and Rick a chance to shine. “We love what we do!” BC Apple Cake ~ Easy, Moist and Delicious YIELDS 6-8 SERVINGS
CAKE 3 eggs 1 1/2 cups oil 2 cups sugar 3 cups flour 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup pecans 3 cups of cored, peeled, diced apples 40
Don’t know about the Wooden Nickel Cafe? It’s been a main stay in Winfield for years located on Highway 97 in the Winfield Shopping Centre.
ICING 4 oz butter 1 cup packaged brown sugar 1/4 cup milk Mix all cake ingredients and pour into 9x13 oblong pan. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cook icing ingredients in small saucepan for 2.5 minutes. Pole holes in the cake then pour icing over the cake. This cake is so moist it is sinful. Not low cal but worth every minute. This cake also freezes very well. NOTE: you only need to serve small pieces,it’s a very rich cake. Cabbage Rolls ~ Diane's Way MAKES 40 CABBAGE ROLLS
1 16oz can of sauerkraut 2 heads of cabbage Steam cabbage; separate the leaves, trimming the edge from back of the leaves. 2 lbs. lean ground beef 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 1 tsp onion powder 1 tsp garlic powder 1 cup plain rice cooked (per directions) 1 small onion finely chopped BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Now here is the "secret": There are some wonderful packaged rice products out there. The ones you cook with the seasoning products so it flavors the rice. There are wild rice, long grain and other varieties. You will need two pouches or boxes of whichever variety you choose.Try the one you personally like best. What this does is add a lot of flavor from the inside out. Mix ground beef (raw), cooled rice, cooled rice mixes - make sure the ingredients are cool as you do not want to put the raw found beef into the danger zone while preparing the rolls. Mix in onion and seasonings to ground beef and rice mixture.Mix well. Now you are ready to roll. Place one tbsp or more of meat filling depending on size of leaves. Roll and place in casserole dish. Top each layer with a generous sprinkling of sauerkraut. This also adds great flavor. Make a mixture of tomato paste and water about 1 1/2 cups and pour over cabbage rolls. Cover and bake in a 350 oven for 22 1/2 hours. Always check after 1 hour to ensure there is still some liquid in the casserole dish.
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Things are jumping here! Kelowna’s newest gaming entertainment centre!
SAUCE 1 can tomato soup 1/2 can water 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp onion 1/2 tsp garlic 1 tbsp sour cream Mix all ingredients together. Uncover cabbage rolls when there is only 30 minutes cooking time left. Pour sauce over cabbage rolls and finish baking. Rick thought I should submit my famous cabbage roll recipe. He had to convince me to give up the "secret" and I almost did but not quite! We want to hear about your favorite recipes. Please send them to info@beyond50mag.com or by fax at 869-1490 or mail them to 1850 Ranchmont Crescent, Kelowna, BC V1V 1T4. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Come find out what all the excitement is at Chances! We have electronic bingo, slots and off-track teletheatre horse race betting. Enjoy the licensed lounge and our big screen TV’s for watching the game. There’s also smoking and non-smoking areas.
OPEN 9:30AM - 1AM 1585 Springfield Rd (BESIDE RONA) KELOWNA
(250) 860-9577
Know your limit, play within it.
41
Norman:
walk a mile (or more!) in his shoes Submitted by Vivian Hamanishi
He tells me he’s sure he wouldn’t be walking without a walker, if it weren’t for his daily exercise with the poles.
Early retirement My Dad, Norman, turned 90 years old in December. It’s amazing - at one time, he smoked three packs of cigarettes a day and sat in a truck six days a week. He drove the mail in a single-axle truck with a 35-foot trailer from Dawson Creek (Mile Zero on the Alaska Highway),up to Whitehorse,Yukon (mile 918 on the highway). It’s a three day trip each way. Now, he walks between four and seven kilometres a day. He walked an amazing 1250 kilometres in 2006. From the time he moved in to the Highlands, a senior’s home in North Glenmore,he started to walk regularly. He had some trouble with his knees and the uphill walks. When he read about the Keenfit Walking Poles in the paper, he tried them out at the Senior’s Centre in Rutland. He got his new walking poles December, 2005 for his birthday. He’s been walking nearly every day since. In the summer months, he sets off before breakfast, and when the weather is cooler,after breakfast. He usually walks down towards the mall along Glenmore Road; a good coffee and muffin are the rewards on the way home. He tells me he’s sure he wouldn’t be walking without a walker, if it weren’t for his daily exercise with the poles. They help with the sore knees,make him walk straighter with better posture, and he can now walk up from the mall and back to the Highlands on the uphill portion. He says he’s noticed that he has more muscle mass in his upper body, too. When people stop him to enquire about the poles, he gladly tells them to visit www.keenfit.com or to phone (250) 769-9241. Dad is really just a youngster at the Highlands. He says there are residents who are 97, one who is 94, and several others who had their 90th birthday before him in 2006. But I’m proud of my Dad: I don’t think there are too many other 90 year olds who walk 1250 kilometres a year.
Submitted by Wendy Klein
He counted down the busy days and checked off each requirement, It’s almost time to clear his desk to languish in retirement. No more rising bleary eyed his life ruled by the clock, He’d spend each morning in his chair not caught in some inane gridlock. His wife made lists of things to do “What fun to be so hectic, forget the hum drum daily chores we’ll make our life eclectic.” Alas his thoughts of lazy days were lost in some dark chasm, His wife was quite relentless with her bright enthusiasm. That run that lasted far too long and cycling miles to follow, Today he’d rest his weary joints if left in peace to wallow. But sure enough like every day she bounces in to Dennis, “I’ve booked a court for us today We’ll play four hours of tennis!!!!” Feb 2007
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Kick•Start (kik’start) n. To start or reinvigorate an activity, system or process. KickStart is a community driven initiative focused on creating an awareness of the benefits of physical activity.
It’s part of a 5 year program focused on increasing levels of physical activity in our community by 20% by 2010.
Dolly & Dennis were created especially for Beyond 50 Magazine by Wendy Klein. As we mature so will Dolly & Dennis! Watch for them in future issues.
Wendy Klein Artist / Illustrator • Tickled Pink Studio Wendy`s interest in art began at a very early age. Over the years, it developed into a passion and necessity. In 1979, after moving from her home in Sussex, England, to California, she spent over two years at college, studying the arts under the strict supervision of a dedicated professor. Perseverance and hard work resulted in her becoming a freelance illustrator, expanding her clientele to include a variety of magazines, newspapers, a children’s book, and private commissions. During a four year period of living in rural France, it became very natural for Wendy to introduce “tongue in cheek” humour into her work. She studied, sketched, and painted the growing number of feral cats and critters who shared the 300 year old farmhouse she and her husband were renovating. BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Wendy`s art was exhibited in several cities in central France before she and her husband eventually settled in the Okanagan Valley in 2000. Her work was first included in the annual Art Walk exhibition in Winfield. This resulted in other shows and exhibits in Vancouver and galleries in Kelowna and Vernon. Her cards, prints, and her recent two books, “For the Love of Real Women”and “For the Love of Cats”, can be purchased at her Tickled Pink Gallery in Lake Country, and selective retail stores. By popular demand, many paintings were reduced and printed into Greeting Cards. Matted Prints and Giclees are available at TP Studio and in retail stores in and around the Okanagan, Vancouver, Toronto, the USA, and England.
It’s simple... as little as 30 minutes of activity per day will improve your overall health and fitness, reduce stress and increase relaxation.
Exercise helps maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints, and promotes weight control.
Exercise promotes a happier healthy sense of wellbeing, increases energy levels.
Exercise builds healthy families with healthy minds.
Be Active Stay Active
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The real deal: an interview with Bruce Submitted by Jeremy Hoemsen
I strive to always improve, no matter what I’m doing. If it’s kicking or punching, I want to push myself. I try to do things to the best of my ability. I get more pleasure out of it if I do it for real, as opposed to just showing up and putting in time.
When I first walked into Great Way Martial Arts to check out something called ‘Wing Chun kung fu’, I was greeted by a kid named Cody. He was only about 15 but he shook my hand and started a comfortable discussion with more ease than most adults I’ve met. His casual confidence and lack of aggression showed me that this was the kind of school I wanted to be part of, where the training helps produce amazingly well-adjusted people like Cody. After years of training with adults of all ages, one of the fascinating things I’ve found is that some of the older people, those around 50, have an incredible drive and focus. Not only do these people keep up with the 20 year olds in class, they keep going and going, no stopping to chat or to think about how tired they may be. Recently, I’ve had the honour of training with a guy named Bruce. I thought it would be interesting to discover what makes the older martial artist tick. This is his story.
pains and all that but I did a little research... I didn’t even know about Wing Chun but when I started reading about it, I thought,“Hey,this might be for me.” So I found a local place and called up Sihing Bill. He didn’t force you to do any backflips or jumping kicks... B: No, that’s one of the things that appealed to me about Wing Chun;that it’s simple,practical,effective,without all the acrobatics. As you get older,things don’t bend quite the way they used to. So after a three week introductory course, I decided this could be alright. I felt okay ’cause there were a couple other guys around my age. And I’ve been doing it ever since. That was about three years ago now. And I work for the Queen’s Printer. Being stuck in an office all day, there’s not a lot of opportunity for staying fit...
Did you start doing Wing Chun kung fu before you turned 50? B: Pretty much started at 50. I’ve always liked martial arts. A number of years ago, I tried Shaolin kung fu and I enjoyed it. But it’s a hard style, although I was younger and stronger. I tried a couple lessons in karate, then a little wushu. They didn’t really strike a chord with me...
Other than doing butt clenches on your office chair...but people might wonder what the hell you’re doing over there... B: (laughing) Yeah, you don’t want to know. I could always pump iron and work on bulging muscles but I wanted a more well-rounded exercise program. Martial arts covers all the bases - the physical, the mental, the psychological... it incorporates everything I was looking for to keep fit and to keep my mind sharp as I get closer to retirement.
You didn’t like all the yelling in karate? B: Yeah, and some things just didn’t feel right to me. I know there’s different styles of martial arts but some of it just relies on power,strength,and brawn.As you can see,I’m not a huge strong guy. Thought I’d like to get back into it but thought, “Geeze,maybe I’m too old.” You know,years go by,aches and
Was there something about Sihing Bill’s school that appealed to you? B: There wasn’t a lot of pressure, just come on out and see what you think. I decided this is the route I want to go and ultimately, I’m glad I did. It helps me with stress, with aches and pains, keeps me limber.
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
So this is what keeps you coming back? B: Yes, all the things I was looking for to keep me active, mentally and physically. And I like the lifestyle philosophy of Wing Chun, trying to incorporate those principles into daily life... Ideas like simplicity, economy of motion, overall efficiency... how do you apply them in your daily life? B:I’m always thinking of a more efficient way to do what I do. And I find that keeping in tune physically and mentally helps my self-confidence in a stressful situation. You keep telling us in class,“Don’t forget to breathe. Keep breathing.” And in stressful situations, I can forget to breathe. I realize I’m really breathing shallow, from the top of my lungs. Now I remember, “Okay, breathe deep, calm down, settle down, deal with whatever it is.” That’s cool. Do you have any short or long term goals in your training? B: I’m going for my level five in about a month. I just want to get more comfortable with what I have to do for my grading. As for long term, nothing specific, I just want to continue on with it as long as I can. I want to really understand it, not worry so much about a piece of paper on the wall. But it’s a nice piece of paper... B: Yeah, yeah. But I’d like to see how far I can go with it, see what level I can get to and be able to maintain that level. I want to stay fit for my retirement years, not just sit in front of the TV. I want to be physically active. My father is in his eighties and he still tries to take good care of himself. I want to be the same way... How far away is retirement? B: About five to seven years.
What other kinds of hobbies do you have? B: I’ve been a photographer for a number of years. I’ve worked with a local commercial photographer... I used to have my own dark room for black and white. And I like hiking, doing photography when I’m hiking. Another hobby is music... I was a working musician for about 35 years, playing guitar in bands. Wow. So you still play,I guess? B: Yes, I’m not currently in a band but as a matter of fact, today I got a call from someone I worked with in the past who wants to get something going again... Did you used to have long hair? Are you a rock n roll type of guy? B: (laughing) Yeah, the last few bands have been along the lines of country rock and classic rock. Do you have any heroes in the music world? B: Mostly guitar players who are good at their craft...some of the jazzy rock guys as opposed to say bands like Aerosmith. That’s fine, it’s fun to do, and I’m not really a jazz player, but listening to the jazz guys playing up-tempo, rock n roll stuff is what appeals to me. What about other heroes? Kung fu heroes? Political heroes? Maybe George Bush? B: Not really (laughing). I’m very passionate about politics but I know it causes problems when you talk with people. So I really try not to talk politics with people unless I know they’re on my side... That’s smart. Is there anything specific you find the training helps with physically? B:Well,I have arthritis in my lower spine and I have stiff joints. I can’t lie on my back for any long period of time,I just get too stiff and sore. When I’m involved in classes like this, we work
Health Care the way it use to be...
• Free prescription delivery (please ask) • Home Health Care sales & rentals (walkers, canes, mobility aids) • Large selection of gifts for all occasions in our Best Treasures boutiques • Fast, friendly & efficient service • Registered nurse on staff specializing in foot care & flu shots (home visits may be arranged)
Because your health matters to us! Locally owned and operated by Craig and Elena Tostenson
MISSION • 717-5330 Mission Park *next to Coopers Foods GLENMORE • 861-4443 Glenvalley Plaza *next to Brandt’s Creek Pub BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Proud to support our Community 45
all the joints,there’s good cardio,it gets the blood circulating, and I feel better every time I finish a class. When I was diagnosed with the arthritis, they wanted to put me on all these heavy duty medications, but I just didn’t take to it they made me feel ill. But if I put in as much effort as I can, every time I come away from a class, I feel better. You don’t think about all your day to day problems when you’re in class; you’re listening, practising something, total focus on what you’re doing... Especially with someone’s foot flying towards your face... B: Pretty much. Are you satisfied with the kind of progress you’ve made over the last few years? How do you feel about how quickly and how well you learn things in class? B: Well, I’ve always been a bit of a perfectionist and I can get frustrated when I don’t meet my own level of expectation. I don’t need to be perfect but I want to strive to be as good as I can be. I know that other people have a more natural physical ability. I just do the best I can. I do feel like I should devote more time to it than I do, especially practising at home.I’m definitely happy overall,or I wouldn’t keep training two classes a week. I’ve trained hard with you in class, and you just keep going and going. You seem very driven. What is it that kicks in? B: When I want something, I tend to drive towards it.
When you elbow something, you do it really hard.What makes your elbowing so hard? B: I like to do things for real. Like with music, I’ll sit in my rec room and play something ‘til I get it right. And I strive to always improve, no matter what I’m doing. If it’s kicking or punching,I want to push myself. I try to do things to the best of my ability. I get more pleasure out of it if I do it for real, as opposed to just showing up and putting in time. Do you have a favourite part of class? Do you enjoy random combat as much as I do? B: Yes, as close to the real thing as possible... it puts you on the spot, tests you - do you really know what you’re doing? Can you act well in a panic situation? If you make a mistake, can you get out of it? I like testing myself against superior students. I like the challenge. The last class, we had two attackers on one defender, that was good. I like getting into the attacker’s space,getting close enough so they don’t have a chance to back off and throw attacks at you. Deny them the ability to throw a strong attack, shut them down. I don’t need to see how good they’re going to be... sometimes the best defence can be a good offence. Would you recommend Wing Chun training to others in the 50 plus crowd? B: Yes, without a doubt. If you’re physically capable and prepared for a certain time commitment, I think martial arts is a very well rounded activity. You’d have to gauge your physical ability and your commitment to the art, and if you approach it as part of your lifestyle instead of just as a fitness class, I think you’d do better with it. With Wing Chun, you don’t need the acrobatics that other sports might require, you don’t need to punch through concrete blocks or wooden boards. Yes,we do try not to punch concrete... B: I mean, it’s fun to watch, but how practical it is, I don’t know. What about any negative mental or physical effects? Has it made you more aggressive? Have you been going out and starting any bar fights recently? Accosting people on the street? B: If anything, I find it reduces any need I might have to be involved in an altercation. I know now how easy it can be to really damage another human being;I would do anything to keep away from that. If someone’s nervous or afraid or has a large ego, they may feel an unrealistic urge to protect themselves... the more training I have in this art, my selfconfidence and knowing what I know would allow me to diffuse a potentially physical altercation. On that note: could you kick David Carradine’s ass? B:(laughing) I don’t know how much of a martial artist he is... but he’s probably getting pretty old. He’s gotta be about 80. You could take him...
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BEYOND 50 • SPRING 2007
Why work for us? Commissionaires BC is dedicated to providing meaningful and rewarding employment to everyone who works here. Additionally, because we are a Not for Profit Society, our focus is on ensuring the maximum return to every Commissionaire. Founded almost 80 years ago, we offer a wide variety of positions to former military and police personnel as well as to others of good character. Our culture is one dedicated to each and every Commissionaire’s success. When you work for Commissionaires BC, you’re really working to help make BC a safer, friendlier place – and working with a well trained team that supports you every step of the way from classroom training to on the job training, not to mention competitive compensation and excellent benefits. As a Commissionaire security officer you’ll have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments – each with its own range of rewarding experiences – that make every day on the job different. From border crossings to corporate sites and courthouses and holding centers to city streets, you’ll discover a new kind of job satisfaction – and enjoy continuing opportunities for both professional and personal development. By joining Commissionaires, you can be assured you are joining a team of professionals dedicated to providing a high level of service to our clients and support to each other.
Benefits We offer an extensive benefit package that includes, but is not limited to: >Group AD & D insurance, with loss of wage protection and 24/7 coverage for business or pleasure; >Group life insurance (shared cost); >Group extended health, dental and prescription drug plan (shared cost); >TD asset builder group RRSP; >Pay rates among the highest in the industry; >Free uniforms and dry cleaning of most uniform items; >Optional critical illness coverage; >Optional additional life insurance; >Bonus vacation pay; >Statutory Holiday pay not worked; >Paid bereavement leave; >Gratuitous pay-in-lieu; >Four hour minimum callout; >Flexible working conditions; >Free training to veterans.
**Positions available throughout the Okanagan ** Please submit resume to: Commissionaires BC, 103-346 Lawrence Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 6L4, or email: mgrhr.interior@commissionaires.bc.ca or fax to: 250-763-1099. www.commissionaires.bc.ca
w e n All g a b e u l b r u o y in
Plastics
No glass! Here’s something new: #1-7 plastic containers (like yogurt, margarine and detergent bottles) and plastic film (like grocery bags) are now accepted in the curbside recycling program. Look for the recycle symbols on the bottom of the container. Just take off the lid, rinse and flatten before putting them in your blue or clear bags. No Styrofoam, motor oil or chemical containers are accepted. And here's something else that's new: Glass is NOT accepted anymore. Recycle your glass at your local recycling or bottle depot. 1
start date:
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Feb.5/07
For more info visit our website at www.regionaldistrict.com, call the Waste Reduction Office at 469-6250, or call your BC Recycling Hotline at 1-800-667-4321.
Recycling Depot locations:
Bottle Depot locations:
KIRSCHNER, 1988 Kirschner METRO, 144 Cambro Road (off Sexsmith) WESTSIDE LANDFILL, Asquith Road GLENMORE LANDFILL, 2105 Glenmore Road
WINFIELD RETURN-IT CENTRE, Lakewood Mall COLUMBIA BOTTLE DEPOT, 680 Dease Road COLUMBIA BOTTLE DEPOT, 2914 Pandosy BOUCHERIE BOTTLE DEPOT, 2711 Kyle Road