WINTER 2008/09 Issue
Alive with our
IS IN YOU
History
Driving Tips
Every Day is a Snow Day for a Kelowna couple
PE f W NT or u atch in IC s in 20 TO 09 N
WINTER
A FORUM FOR BOOMERS AND SENIORS IN THE OKANAGAN
MUSIC THE
co nte nt s
47 COVER STORY
8
FEATURES Auld Lang Syne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 Beauty and Baskets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Best Advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Care for Our Community Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 COACH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Creative Interest becomes a Passion . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Don’t let Diabetes break your stride . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Every Day is a Snow Day for a Kelowna Couple . .8 In Charge of Your Life? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Inspiration - Gone but never Forgotten . . . . . . . .54 Kelowna Museums Alive with Our History . . . . . .50 New Girl on the Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 On the Move - Ballet Kelowna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Poem for Older Men . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 The Music is in You: A Family's Evolution . . . . . . . .40 The Winter of my Discontent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 Winter Driving Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
38
16
DEPARTMENTS
40 ISSN# 1718-7435 Mail Publication Agreement # 41324527 PUBLISHER - Laurel D’Andrea EDITOR - Julianna Hayes CONSULTANT - Wayne Duchart LAYOUT & GRAPHICS - Lori Johnson, Dragonfli Studio DIGITAL ADVISOR - Michael Breakey SALES & MARKETING - Laurel D’Andrea PRINTING - Mitchell Press WEB DESIGN - NRG Web Design CONTRIBUTORS - Keni-Lynn Bouvier, Laara Bracken, Marilyn J.Brown, Candace Cameron, Lise Dallien Laurel D’Andrea, Ryan Detwiller, Jeanette Dunagan,Tim Elliot Cindy Fairs, Rikki Frost, Roger Frost, Helen Kaulbach, Leanne Hammond Komori, Judith Lane, Errol N.Hannigan, Julianna Hayes, Sean MacMillan, Cheryl Miller, Risti Nykiforuk, Marilyn Optiz, Arlene Rannelli, Phyllis Rowe, Rae Stewart, Noel Wentworth,Terry Weiss. PHOTOGRAPHERS - Michael Breakey, Heather Hollingdale, Glenna Turnbull. Beyond 50 welcomes unsolicited articles or photos. These items can be sent to 1850 Ranchmont Crescent, Kelowna BC V1V 1T4 or emailed to submissions@Beyond50mag.com BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
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 Okanagan (Summerland to Lake Country). Reproduction in part or whole of this magazine is prohibited without the consent of the publisher. 15,000 copies of Beyond 50 Magazine are distributed to all businesses registered with Canada Post for the Central Okanagan, 5,000 random homes receive a copy and there are various drop locations throughout the Central Okanagan. See page 39 for drop locations list. Beyond 50 Magazine may also be viewed electronically by visiting us at www.Beyond50mag.com We would love to hear your comments.Please send them to Beyond 50 Magazine 1850 Ranchmont Crescent, Kelowna, BC V1V 1T4, phone 250-878-9194 or email us at letters@Beyond50mag.com
Angels Among Us ... 7 Calendar of Events ... 37 Editor’s Note ... 5 Electronically Speaking ... 42 Financially Secure ... 12 From Fat to Fit ... 24 Interior Design ... 16 Kickstart ... 32 Mind Games ... 15 Pictorial ... 28 Picture of Health ... 22 Publisher’s Point of View ... 4 Recipes ... 11 Zero Waste ... 20
50
Sudoku Solution ... 36 3
p u b l i s h e r ’s p o i nt o f v i e w
The other thing I will remember is the fact we were chosen as a finalist for the Rising Star Award with the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce.
L to R: Wendy Duchart, Wayne Duchart, Joe Borg, Kellee Piattelli, Sharon Whiting, Dallas D’Andrea, Laurel D’Andrea, Devon D’Andrea, Kristine Jones, Lori Johnson.
So what will you remember about 2008? Will it be that the Americans elected the first African American as President, that the stock market took a huge hit or that it’s the simple things in life that matter the most. Each and every one of us has the ability to make a difference. It may not be as newsworthy as a U.S. election or affect the stock market but we can affect those around us. We can do little things that affect others in positive ways. In our winter issue, our contributors have a lot to share about their lives, their passions and basic insight that might make a difference in your life. For example, our cover story is about Ray and Marilyn Optiz, who dedicated a lot of time volunteering. Even though Ray and Marilyn spent 15-hour days working towards a better future, they still managed to volunteer at club meetings and events pertaining to the Kelowna Snowmobile Club. Kelowna is also home to a lot of companies that are family owned and operated. We have a great feature on the Wentworth family and how their love of music and family benefits our community. We all need to think about the future,so we are changing the “Trash Talk” department to “Zero Waste.”Let’s just say the new name better reflects our overall philosophy, with a broader focus on a more sustainable future for us all. We want to make sure that our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren will enjoy our planet for many years to come. We have to remember that even 4
though the stock market took a turn for the worse,there are non-profit groups who depend on donations from the community. The Financially Secure department addresses that issue - We share information on how you can continue giving even after you are gone. Some of the moments I will remember about 2008 will be the extra time I have spent with my mom as she continues to battle cancer. She is the strongest woman I know and she is my true inspiration for not giving up. I will also remember the incredible people I get to meet each and every issue. Beyond 50 is so fortunate to have many knowledgeable contributors. I know that I have learned a lot and I hope you have as well. The other thing I will remember is the fact we were chosen as a finalist for the Rising Star Award with the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. The awards night in October was so magical and my sons Devon and Dallas had a great time. Congratulations to Wildwood Media Ltd., who were the winner of the award. The best part of the evening was being at the table with people who share in my dream, my vision and my passion for what I do. It is what they do for me that matters the most. Laurel D’Andrea ABOUT THE COVER: Ray and Marilyn Optiz are enjoying a day at Idabel Lake. The gear and snowmobiles can be found at Banner Recreational Products in Kelowna and Vernon.Visit their website at www.bannerrec.com Check out Ray and Marilyn’s story on page 8 and discover how snowmobiling can enrich your life. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
e d i to r ’s n o te
“Always save for a rainy day,” my mother used to say. It was a cliché often bandied about by people of her generation, but my own never quite got it.
This last year has been a tough one. Like most people,the sudden turn in the Okanagan’s once booming economy has me a little shaken. I find myself weighing every purchase and I walk away from a lot of them, even though I might want them badly. I haven’t been always been so thrifty and perhaps that’s been my biggest mistake. No where has this sudden economic slide been more evident than in the local real estate market. Greedy investors over extended themselves with dual, even triple mortgages in hopes of buying and flipping properties in short time frames and reaping the rewards of escalating housing prices. Many have indeed made small fortunes.They’re the lucky ones. Many more have gotten caught in what is now a real estate drain.Kelowna has several new condo projects that are sitting half empty. Buyers are choosing not to close, walking away from their deposits on units they bought on spec.This sacrifice is peanuts compared to potentially losing hundreds of thousands as prices continue to plunge. My partner and I find ourselves in a bit of a real estate quandary. We own two homes - one we are renovating to move into,the other has been our residence for five years.The house is in an extremely desirable neighborhood. People often knocked on our door to inquire if our home was for sale. Now that we’re ready to move, nobody is buying. Perhaps we should have seen this coming.After all,most of us are of an age when we’ve experienced this before, been through full-blown recessions and even depressions. But we get complacent and take our good fortune for granted. “Always save for a rainy day,”my mother used to say.It was a cliché often bandied about by people of her generation,but BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
my own never quite got it. Whenever she would utter these words,I would roll my eyes and continue to live as if each day were my last. My parents, meanwhile, epitomized frugality. They never made much money so were forced to make every dollar stretch. Their purchases were never wasted, but that didn’t mean we went without. They managed to buy a home in a nice,but not overly fancy neighborhood.They drove new,but practical vehicles. We enjoyed many of the luxuries our friends did - my parents installed a swimming pool, built a games room complete with a bar,pool table and jukebox.We had all the electronics of the day. But they pulled this off by shopping around or buying second hand and doing a lot of the work themselves. We rarely ate out and family vacations consisted of modest weekend road trips - no expensive excursions to Disney World or luxurious Bahamas cruises. To top things off, they put all three of their children through university and retired at a reasonable age. My mom isn’t too concerned about the crisis now looming - she and my dad will simply go on as they always have. For many of us,though,the times call for some major belttightening.And that won’t be easy when you’ve been used to pretty much the best of everything. I know from experience that things will rebound.In the meantime,I’ve just got to suck it in and suck it up. JULIANNA HAYES is a long-time print, radio and web-based journalist who has resided in the Okanagan since 1996.Please feel free to email her at juliannahayes@hotmail.com
5
Labossiere and Company LAWYERS - NOTARIES
Wills, Estates and Trusts Real Estate and Mortgages Business Law and Development 862-9719 868-9335 E-MAIL: info@labossierelaw.com PH: (250)
FAX: (250)
210-347 LEON AVENUE, KELOWNA V1Y 8C7 RON LABOSSIERE
Today’s Markets are Uncertain We can guarantee the same interest rate for the rest of your life. Rates up to 10% and save you the taxes.
Dedicated and Passionate about Client Success
Promoting enhanced quality of life! SERVICES AVAILABLE:
Weekly Visitations
Consider a Charitable Gift Annuity with the Salvation Army. For more information call
Janet Lawrence, Planned Giving Representative
Care Angels provide weekly visitations of three hours in duration.
Companionship Care Angels establish a personalized relationship to meet the individual needs and enhance quality of life.
Examples of Activities
Kelowna: (250) 860-2329 ext. 29 Vernon: (250) 549-4111 ext. 23 janet–lawrence@can.salvationarmy.org
6
• assisting with grocery shopping • scenic drive in the country • stroll in the park • friendship and sharing.
Our mission as Care Angels is to restore the ‘joy’ in the lives of your loved ones. We are passionate about finding their smile and putting back the twinkle in their eyes. As Care Angels we provide a nonmedical companionship that will not only re-kindle their zest for life, but it is our intention to leave them with hope. We are your ‘eyes and ears,’ when you cannot be there.
We care because you care! Care Angels was founded by a Registered Nurse with thirty years experience and a passion to make a difference.
For additional information and a full description of services and rates... telephone 250-451-9497 or email heather@careangels.ca BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
angels among us
A Caring Connection Submitted by Cindy Fairs
Herb has been volunteering with the Lifeline Program for the past six years and continues to be one of the most committed volunteers to the program.
Herb Comben
Do you live alone, or stay by yourself for part of the day? Do you worry about falling or having a medical emergency where you need help? If so, you are not alone. Lifeline is a hospital-based community program provided by Interior Health. With the support of some very dedicated volunteers, Lifeline can easily be installed within minutes. One such volunteer is Herb Comben. Herb is no stranger to volunteering in this community as he is involved in many organizations such as the Lions Club,Crime Stoppers and,of course,Lifeline.Herb has been volunteering with the Lifeline Program for the past six years and continues to be one of the most committed volunteers to the program. Before moving to Kelowna in 1981, Herb lived on the coast with his wife Cathy. Herb took a special interest in Lifeline partly because it has to do with installations and telephones. Having worked with the Alberta Government Telephone Company and BC Telephone, he thought this would be a good fit. Through his involvement with the TELUS Community Ambassadors, he quickly learned that this was an ideal volunteer role. “This work is very satisfying knowing it is a good insurance for the folks,”said Herb.“It gives families the peace of mind to be able to have their loved ones be able to live alone knowing that if something happened to them, that help would be there quickly.” In his spare time,Herb loves to work on his woodworking projects, and enjoys travelling to the Cook Islands and various places throughout Canada and the U.S. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Lifeline provides an emergency response system for the elderly, the medically at risk, and individuals who may be physically challenged, allowing them to maintain independence in their homes. Subscribers to Lifeline wear a tiny waterproof pendant, which, when pressed, sends a message through the telephone line to a 24-hour emergency response centre. Trained professionals have immediate access to your medical information and the names of responders (friends, neighbours, family members) who can be called upon to render assistance if you should happen to need it. If necessary,an ambulance will be dispatched.Currently,there are close to 1,800 individuals in the Okanagan benefiting from the safety and security provided by Lifeline, using the most advanced technology available. Lifeline enables individuals who have been living at risk to continue residing in their own homes, surrounded by the things they love, with the confidence of knowing that help is only a button press away. To find out more about Lifeline please call the Interior Health Okanagan Lifeline Program at (800) 994-8414. WelcometoKelowna.com also likes to recognize special people in our community. Our angel Herb will be featured as the Person of the Day on January 9th. To view that page please go to www.welcometokelowna.com. 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.
7
Every Day is a Snow Day Submitted by Roger Frost
With the Kelowna Snowmobile Club relying heavily on a volunteer base, the club is fortunate to have the dedication of people like Ray and Marilyn Opitz.
2008 Idabel Lake (L-R) front row Marilyn Optiz and Kristine Frost and (L-R) back row Ray Optiz and Roger Frost.
With the Kelowna Snowmobile Club (KSC) celebrating its 40th anniversary, it’s only fitting that the Beyond 50 cover story profiles two of the KCS’s most dedicated volunteers. For the last 27 years, Ray and Marilyn Opitz have dedicated their time and knowledge to Kelowna Snowmobile Club events. Both Ray and Marilyn were born and raised in Saskatchewan. They were high school sweethearts and married in 1967. They moved to Kelowna in 1971, where they will celebrate their 41st anniversary in December.They enjoyed a full family life and have two children and three grand children. Ray worked full time at Western Star for 31 years, while Marilyn managed the family business, Tasty Freeze, now known as the Burger Baron. Ray spent all his spare time maintaining and repairing equipment at the restaurant,and looking after the building. Though the business has been sold, they still own the building .
Even though Ray and Marilyn dedicated 15-hour days securing their financial future, they still managed to volunteer at club meetings and events pertaining to the Kelowna Snowmobile Club. Late in 1998, my daughter, Rikki and I were driving by Duck Lake and noticed a snowmobile event taking place. Rikki convinced me to pick up our Ski-Doo and attend.After unloading and sledding approximately 100 feet, I noticed the distinct aroma of fried onions. I guided my sled over to the concession stand, and the rest is history. (Check out Erwin’s recipes on page 11.) After chatting briefly with Ray and Marilyn about the club and volunteering opportunities, I realized it was something in which I wanted to get involved. Since that day I have been regularly promoting and dealing with snowmobiling issues throughout British Columbia. Ray and Marilyn have a long history with the club,joining in 1981.Almost immediately they became part of the board
Playing up at Idabel Lake 2008.
8
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
and were one of the first investors to help purchase a key piece of equipment to clear and maintain the trails throughout the Greystokes. The Kelowna Snowmobile Club hosted its one and only hill climb at Big White in 1992.The following year the event moved to Silver Star Mountain and was jointly put on by the Kelowna and Vernon clubs. Ray and Marilyn were involved in all aspects of the event. In 2002, the last year it was held, Marilyn helped with the pre-staging and staging, while Ray managed the concession. Ray served the hamburgers in a gravy sauce, and they were so well liked by the participants, they named the dish the“Ray Burger.” Over the years, Ray participated in courses to become involved in all aspects of the club including Food Safe Certification,Snow Patrol Leader,and Avalanche Awareness. Ray at a snowy covered tower in March 1982. But the club wasn’t the only organization that benefited with Marilyn director of the phoning committee, and Ray from their benevolence.Ray was a volunteer fireman for the Kelowna Fire Department Rutland Branch from 1976 to director of outdoor events. For 10 years, Ray and Marilyn prepared all the food and 1988, and named an honorary member. Marilyn served in numerous committees and was always equipment and loaded it on to a sleigh to serve the club refreshment throughout the chalets in the Greystokes. It at Ray’s side for events. Marilyn also lends Ray a helping hand in selling 50/50 tickets at club didn’t matter what the weather condimeetings. tions were, it was always a 12-hour day, Ray still serves as a club director,and serving all major events from the Chili as the liaison to the British Columbia Run in early December, to the Poker Run Snowmobile Federation as a regional in late January, and always closing out director. He also works with all local the season with the annual Family Fun dealers, and along with Marilyn, helps Day in mid March.I am sure that Ray and out at certain events and open houses. Marilyn’s efforts were greatly appreWith the Kelowna Snowmobile Club ciated when a cold and damp sledder relying heavily on a volunteer base, the pulled up to the chalet and were club is fortunate to have the dedication greeted with a hot beverage and meal. of people like Ray and Marilyn Opitz.It’s In 1988, when the Kelowna Snowonly fitting that in March 2005, this mobile Club decided to purchase its first tremendous couple were named groomer, the club decided the only way honorary members for life. to finance it was to sell debenture January 1982. bonds. Ray and Marilyn never hesitated
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
9
Upon entering Diane’s Fine Jewellery and Gifts you feel as if you’ve entered a new world of design. This is the place where you’ll find your own unique piece of jewellery unlike anything else out there.
Store Hours: Tues. - Fri. 8:30am - 5:30pm, Sat. 9:30am - 4:30pm Appointments available upon request.
10
2170 Harvey Ave., Kelowna Located in the Ramada Hotel
250-762-2210
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
re c i p e s
Erwin’s Best Burgers Submitted by Marilyn Optiz
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.
burgers and put in gravy mixture. When serving, pull patty out with tongs and shake lightly. When placed on bun sprinkle lightly with seasoning salt. You never serve a poor burger this way and you can accommodate a large crowd in a short period of time.
The recipe section is dedicated to Erwin Rudat. Many of you will remember Erwin from the 4-Seasons Racquet Club, Kelowna Curling Club or the Kelowna Snowmobile Association.Here are two of Erwin’s recipes that people enjoyed. This is the only way the Snowmobile Association will serve up their burgers when they are out playing.
Erwin’s Baron of Beef Roasts Pre-heat oven to 200 F 1 Baron of beef in its own bag Place roast in its own bag in a shallow roasting pan. Make sure bag does not touch edges. Place in oven and cook to desired doneness. After several hours in oven, check periodically by inserting meat thermometer in thickest part of roast to desired internal temperature. When cooked remove from oven, let stand 15 minutes to allow juices to settle. Snip corner of bag to pour out juices in separate pan and thicken for gravy. Season to taste. This way of cooking takes a long time because of the low temperature, but your roast will be tender and juicy.
Erwin’s Quality Burger Patties Trio gravy package (make as per instructions, then thin so when the patty is dipped most of the gravy drains off.) Gravy sauce should be put into a steam tray. Pre-cook
Beyond 50 Magazine is not responsible for the outcome of any recipe you try from this publication. While we try to review each recipe carefully, you may not always achieve the results desired due to variations in ingredients, cooking temperatures, typos, errors, omissions, or individual cooking abilities.
Family Fun Day at Duck Lake for the Snowmobile Association 2001.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
11
f i n a n c i a l l y s e c u re
Simplifying Charitable Giving Submitted by Leanne Hammond Komori
Another decision is whether you want to make a one-time gift or endow your gift so that it can continue to generate income for your favourite charities in perpetuity.
Charitable giving... most of us do it. Sometimes we give in small ways, like the donation I made to Scouts Canada for an apple outside the drug store last week, or for those Girl Guide cookies I covet, squirrelling them away in the deep freeze where the kids won’t find them. Sometimes I write a cheque at my door when the Canadian Cancer Society comes calling. And of course, I always give generously when my children’s school is fundraising. Whether it’s small scale or much more grandiose, every act of charitable giving makes a difference. Having worked for the Central Okanagan Foundation for the past two years has given me an increased awareness of charitable options. The donors I work with through our community foundation take it to a whole new level. They are not just giving; they are practicing philanthropy. Philanthropy is an impressive word that simply means, “love of mankind.” Philanthropy doesn’t have to be on a grand scale, it doesn’t have to involve huge sums of money, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. In my work, I facilitate gifts of various sizes and types; the focus is always on finding a method of giving that suits the donor and his/her unique circumstances. Charitable giving is only complicated and overwhelming when we let it intimidate us. Giving should be a pleasant experience that creates a feeling of joy and well-being. My goal is always to demystify and find the simplest way to meet the donor’s needs. 12
Most charities are able to accept gifts in the following ways. Consider using a community organization like the Central Okanagan Foundation as a neutral intermediary to get your gift to the charity or charities you have in mind: GIVE CASH. Simple and direct, easy to transact, and always appreciated! MAKE A PLEDGE.Most charities are happy to allow you to spread out your giving by making monthly or annual gifts. This is an effective way to make giving more affordable, yet still reach a meaningful goal. DONATE APPRECIATED SECURITIES. While the market may be going through a down phase right now,you may still have some stock in your portfolio you are willing to part with. If the timing for this option does not currently appeal, rest assured the market will eventually improve. Donating securities directly to charity instead of selling them and then gifting the proceeds avoids capital gains tax.The result is lower tax for you, and a larger gift for the charity.You also receive a tax receipt for the value of the stock. DONATE LIFE INSURANCE. Did you know that if you give a fully-paid life insurance policy to charity and make that charity the beneficiary you get a tax receipt for the full value of the policy? If you are still making premium payments, but transfer the ownership to your chosen charity, your payments become tax deductible! DONATE SOME OF YOUR RRSPs. Have you stashed more in your RRSPs than you can pull back out without triggering unwanted income tax? Consider gifting some BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
of your RRSPs to charity in a bequest. RRSPs can be left to charity without causing undue taxes to your estate. RRSPs gifted to charity directly bypass probate and receive a tax receipt for the full value of the donation. Unfortunately the same is not true of leaving RRSPs to your adult children; they will be taxed on the inheritance of RRSPs, which may take a substantial portion of your intended gift. *Consider this when planning for your children. DONATE PROPERTY - Gifts of land left to charity in a will are normally sold with the cash providing a wonderful windfall for the charity. As a related alternative, the Central Okanagan Land Trust was created to accept gifts of property that a donor does not want to see sold. If your land is ecologically sensitive, consider leaving it to a land trust to preserve it for future generations. MAKE A BEQUEST - leave a gift in your will. You can choose either a dollar figure or a percentage of your estate. Using a percentage allows the proportion of your estate left to children, other heirs, and charitable beneficiaries to stay constant despite fluctuations in your net worth over the passage of time. Consider including your professional advisor (lawyer, accountant, investment advisor) in any planned giving decision; he/she may have additional information on how to maximize the benefit of your gift to charity while minimizing your tax situation.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Another decision is whether you want to make a onetime gift or endow your gift so that it can continue to generate income for your favourite charities in perpetuity. If you like the idea of creating a gift that continues to give forever... call the foundation and explore the idea of an endowed fund set up to meet your particular charitable goals. To borrow a phrase from my colleague at the KGH Foundation,“Live Forever... Leave Your Legacy.” Anyone can leave a legacy. The way I look at it, there’s no downside to that. If I’m going to live forever through my gifts, I’m not even close to middle aged! *Spouses can leave RRSPs to each other without triggering income tax; you should discuss this with your investment advisor LEANNE HAMMOND KOMORI is the Executive Director for (COF). She has a keen interest in growing philanthropy and takes every chance she gets to strengthen our local not-for-profit sector. Leanne says the thing she values most about her position is that as a community foundation, the COF supports giving to a wide variety of charitable causes instead of focusing in one particular area. From Education to Arts and Culture, from Seniors to Children,Youth and Families. Leanne can be contacted at 250-861-6160 or through www.CentralOkanaganFoundation.org
13
New Girl on the Block
Helping you move from dreaming to doing
The COF Welcomes Cheryl Miller
The Central Okanagan Foundation is pleased to announce that Cheryl Miller will be joining our team as our new Grants Manager. Cheryl has spent over 10 years in Kelowna’s not-for-profit sector. Her knowledge and reputation in the charitable sector will be a key strength in her new position as she guides charitable groups in their funding applications, and works with our volunteer advisory committees to choose worthwhile projects to support. Cheryl will be a great asset to the COF and looks forward to helping identify and support pressing community needs.
Call Sylvia Fleming PHONE
250-860-6067
250-864-1179 307 Banks Rd. 207B, Kelowna
CELL
www.worldfinancialgroup.com
Growing Your Gift for the Future... offering flexibility, knowledge and support to make your giving more effective. CENTRAL OKANAGAN FOUNDATION #217-1889 Springfield Road, Kelowna
250-861-6160 www.CentralOkanaganFoundation.org
14
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
mind games
Sudoku
- VERY HARD
SOLUTION ON PAGE 36
There are many ways you can leave a legacy for those who follow. For information on how you too can leave your legacy, please contact the Okanagan College Foundation at 1-888-650-6968 or 250-862-5630 www.okanagancollegefoundation.ca
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
15
i nte r i o r d e s i g n
Update your Home Submitted by Keni-Lynn Bouvier
I think it’s fair to say that many people are unsure about whether to sell their house or stay put in these unsettling times. It’s also true that most people only make changes they would also enjoy. Home stagers are becoming a necessity if you are in the marketplace right now, but what if you are not planning to sell any time soon? Many clients have inquired about inexpensive alterations, which they can enjoy instead of someone else. Many people overlook the sheer impact paint and coordinating accessories can have on a space.Whether you hire someone, visit trade shows for ideas or do it yourself, changing the colour of your living areas can be very
16
energizing as we get ready for winter. The best way to create positive change is with proper colour coordination. Beautiful colour palettes are not a coincidence, but rather well thought-out alterations. Although the latest trends have seen bolder, dynamic colours like reds, purples and oranges, a properly harmonized colour palette can also have more subdued shades like green, gold or off white with just as much impact. The secret to making good colour choices includes understanding the colour wheel and what actually work together. Most people have not even considered a colour wheel when selecting paint and that is where the confusion can start. Many of us after a certain age simply lump things together with little or no thought to colour principles. This creates a look of disorder that often transforms into clutter. A professional colour consultant will create a new palette that will work with existing areas and pieces. Decorators know that paint is one of the cheapest decorating tools, but they also know it can be one of the biggest problems with overall harmony in a space. Colours are classified into either warm colours like red,
Everything within walking distance
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
orange and yellow, or cool colours like blue, green and violet. Cool colours can evoke feelings of calmness and serenity when used in children’s rooms and well-appointed master suites, while warm colours elicit feelings of excitement and euphoria such as red dining rooms full of conversation or a spice-coloured office for those late night emails. A good colour consultant can balance cool with warm colours because all colours have complimentary or opposite shades which are used for accessorizing the perfect backdrop created by the right palette. When working with a colour palette it is also important to pick colours that you like so they reflect your personality, thus reaping the benefits of a custom-made space in harmony with style. In the next few issues we will be addressing different areas we can change for the better in our everyday homes. The changes will be ideas that can be reasonably implemented for maximum impact... so keep reading and go buy that red paint you’ve been dreaming about!
Three time winner of the CENTURY 21 TOP CENTURION PRODUCER AWARD
KENI-LYNN BOUVIER and her company, Urban Redesigns specializes in, staging, downsizing & decorating for the ‘50 plus crowd’ in the Kelowna area.In the next issue of Beyond 50 Magazine,KeniLynn Bouvier will address issues of lighting.
250-215-4457 www. urbanredesigns.com • Staging for homeowners & realtors • 1 day interior redesigns (up to 3 rooms) • Color consultations for both interior & exterior applications • Personal shopping for updating home furnishings and accessories • Decorating and furniture placement for new homeowners Urban Redesigns now has a decorating program specially tailored for the Beyond 50 crowd. We provide a personalized relocating and downsizing redesign service. Please visit our website www.urbanredesigns.com for more info on our Beyond 50 package!
BEFORE
AFTER
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Refresh Reclaim Redo 17
Best Advice Submitted by Jeanette Dunagan
Some other of my Mother’s clichés applied to relationships at home and in the work place: ”The early bird gets the worm;” ...
My mother’s advice came in the form of verbal clichés. These oft-times banal platitudes proved beneficial to me over the years because most of them apply to personal relationships like friends, co-workers, and the greasing of family dynamics. One memory that still brings a smile to my heart was her observation during a parade in which my brother Jim was out of time with all the other soldiers.“Everyone’s out of step but Jim,”she said, seeing him through the eyes of a mother. Now that I am a mother and grandmother, I can relate to her in the expression of a heart-felt love that sometimes comes in the form of denial. I only wish I had focused more on my children’s accomplishments, like graduations, rather than disappointments, like denied admission to Harvard. The comment,“humour him,” was mother’s response to soothing over matters with dad. I tried reasoning, kicking, screaming, and all out warfare, in order to get my point across, only to learn how far a little stroking and soothing can go toward getting the desired result - cajoling dad to pay for yet another dance lesson, for example. My mother did not work outside the home, did not drive a car, did not watch Oprah. Yet her clichés easily applied to life in the world outside our home. ”If you are looking for trouble,you’ll find it,”was one often heard. The possibility of my brothers or me running with a “bad”crowd simply did not exist. We were not excused from taking responsibility. My brothers raked the rabbit pens and fed the cat and the dog.We cleaned our own rooms and did our own laundry. Pride of family ran deep in our home and luckily we were encouraged to excel in school (study at the table after dinner) and participate in sports (we all played 18
golf) and musical events (we all played piano). We were raised out of trouble and had no desire to “go looking for it” and I think that is still a valuable lesson for today. Some of mother’s clichés applied to relationships at home and in the work place:”The early bird gets the worm;” “Two heads are better than one;”“Don’t put all your eggs in one basket;”and“Time waits for no man.” Her clichés for motivation and inspiration included:“It’s a dog-eat-dog world;”“It’s survival of the fittest;”“You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink;”“One good deed deserves another and finally;” and her early morning mantra, “This is the day that the Lord hath made, I shall rejoice and be glad in it.” My dad also had a lot of sage advice, delivered in the form of Dublin humour, cloaked in affection, like:“Bless your little Irish heart and every other Irish part.” He shared interesting observations of our daily life, such as one time when the family was about to visit Aunt Elvira’s impressive home. As we were getting out of the car, dad turned to mother and said,“Pauline,we will have to lie about how well we are doing.” His financial advice would certainly apply in the present: “Your mother and I are no longer trying to get ahead,we are simply trying to keep our heads above water.” Other clichés from his depression-era portfolio included: “God helps those who help themselves;”“Money does not grow on trees;”and“Money talks, mine said good-bye.” He many tongue-in-cheek remarks concerning affairs of the heart, such as the toast he gave at my parents’ 50th wedding anniversary:“The first 49 years were the hardest.” BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Other love-related comments included: “Love halves your sorrow, doubles your joy and quadruples your living expenses;” “Love is blind, marriage is the eye opener;”“Better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all;” and, ever the romantic, “Love conquers all.” If my parents were alive today, they would probably find some good advice in the cliches we live with: “If you love something, set it free;” and, “Tomorrow’s another day!” JEANETTE DUNAGAN has lived in the Kelowna area for over 30 years and remembers the location of the original LCBC,on Leon.She plays in a Recorder Orchestra, loves to down hill ski and spend time with her grandchildren. You may remember Jeanette from her first column “Sex and the Senior Goddess”in the Kelowna Daily Courier.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
19
ze ro wa s te
Zero Waste Submitted by Rae Stewart
Almost 14-million beverage cans are recycled in the Central Okanagan each year. That’s about 81 cans and bottles for each person.
Welcome to the first edition of Zero Waste. If you've seen this page before, you’ll know the it used to be called Trash Talk. So, why the switch? Let’s just say the new name better reflects our overall philosophy, with a broader focus on a more sustainable future for us all. What exactly is Zero Waste? It’s an international catch phrase that encompasses anything from teens buying fewer lip balms to forcing coffee companies to eliminate their paper-cup disposal. A few years ago, the concept was adopted in the Central Okanagan as a challenge and philosophy. While a Zero Waste goal - like a Zero Accident goal - may not be achievable, it does emphasize waste prevention as an appropriate design principle for solid waste planning. Really, this is what our region has been doing for more than a decade. Now we’re just giving it a name. The Central Okanagan loves to recycle Almost 14-million beverage cans are recycled in the Central Okanagan each year. That’s about 81 cans and bottles for each person. Residents in the RDCO divert about 50 percent of waste from landfills every year. That means about 150,000 tonnes of paper, plastics, aluminum, glass, and other recyclables and compostables are not going into our landfills each year. Paper fibre can be recycled about six times before it breaks down. 20
About 10,000 tonnes of newspaper and cardboard were
recycled from residences in 2007, which resulted in 175,000 fewer trees being cut down. About 62 percent of B.C. homeowners compost. The following Canadian municipalities have adopted a Zero Waste policy: Toronto, Halifax, Nelson, Metro Vancouver, Kootenay Boundary, Central Kootenay, Nanaimo, Sunshine Coast, the Cowichan Valley, and the Central Okanagan. We should be proud of the progress we’ve made in the past two decades. But the fact remains, we live in a throw away society and create way too much garbage. Zero Waste as a goal will help us focus our attention on the need to redesign our products and packaging and to consider our wasteful ways. Our planet deserves the best from us; it’s the only one we’ve got! RAE STEWART is the Waste Reduction Facilitator with the Regional Waste Reduction Office at the Regional District of Central Okanagan. Everything you ever wanted to know about garbage and recycling is available from the Regional Waste Reduction Office. As a program of the City of Kelowna, Regional District and districts of Peachland, Lake Country and Westside, the Waste Reduction Office implements programs to help reduce garbage going to local landfills. Reducing waste conserves natural resources,energy and space in local landfills,protects the environment and saves future tax dollars.You can contact Rae at rae.stewart@cord.bc.ca. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Easier Cleaner Greener
W E N
Wheel
your waste
The NEW Automated Waste Collection System Coming Spring 2009 to Central Okanagan homes an easier, cleaner, greener collection system for garbage, recycling & yard waste. No need to buy bags anymore Yard waste collection every two weeks, spring through fall
Cleaner and tidier And when you get them, you can start using them right away! For more info, go to www.regionaldistrict.com, or call the Regional Waste Reduction Office at 250-469-6250. In partnership with OK Environmental Waste Systems 250-868-3211 A PROGRAM OF THE REGIONAL DISTRICT OF CENTRAL OKANAGAN, THE CITY OF KELOWNA, WESTSIDE DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, AND THE DISTRICTS OF LAKE COUNTRY AND PEACHLAND
Let me help you find the perfect house... CHARLENE BERTRAND
250-870-1870
UPPER MISSION - MLS® #9202429 Truly one-of-a-kind! Architecturally designed 4 bdrm home with fabulous lake and city views. Great B&B potential!
106-1355 FINDLAY - MLS® #9203970 SAVE on this 3 bdrm almost new townhome, 5 appl. Pets welcome! Only $325,000!
DILWORTH - MLS® #9204963
Fantastic 5 bdrm quality home with a self contained suite. Great home, great views! BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
TRADITIONS - MLS® #9204656 Spectacular top quality showhome in fabulous new neighbourhood! Spacious, bright, functional floor plan and numerous features!
250-860-7500
21
p i c t u re o f h e a l t h
From Hopelessness to Happiness Finding Your Inner Strength Submitted by Laara Bracken
I now listen to my body. I learned to receive, as well as, give love. I was so impressed with my results, I decided to make it my life’s work.
Today I am a healthy, happy, productive woman. It’s hard to believe that life once seemed so grim and overwhelming. I was born into a family who believed you had to work very hard and be tough to survive. At age 12, after a traumatic incident,I suddenly became exhausted and didn’t bounce back. My thinking was fuzzy and memory was poor. Nobody believed there was something wrong. Thus, I developed my own inner critic. At age 33, a single mother with two young sons, no high school science, and in a lot of physical, I managed to enroll in university Environmental Biology. I graduated, but the effort took its toll and I suffered a paralyzing physical breakdown shortly afterwards. I was devastated,especially as I had to give up working in the field.I started to feel depressed.My strong,independent, confident facade collapsed.It was time to take a serious look at myself and my life. The next years involved a search for solutions for my body pain,exhaustion,and extremely low opinion of myself. I consulted many caring and talented people in mainstream and alternative health fields. I learned to trust people again, gained some relief, a lot of awareness about who I was and my condition and some excellent advice.Nothing produced lasting change, however. I remained stuck. Then in 1984, I saw an ad that claimed to be the answer to my problems and would required less time than other methods. Curiousity overruled scepticism and I booked an 22
appointment. Wow! Four hours later, my eyes were like saucers. Using gentle, non-leading questions, the practitioner helped me to reach into my subconscious, transforming deeply-imbedded negative beliefs, and the emotions and behaviours attached to them, into positive, consciously-chosen alternatives. This led to transforming my spiritual, mental, emotional and physical levels. The fear we challenged did not return. Positive, life enhancing beliefs made the journey from my head to my heart, then my entire being. With a few more sessions, a loving, strong, confident, whole me emerged. Low self esteem was replaced with compassion for myself and others. Self criticism was transformed into an appreciation of my talents, abilities, strengths and accomplishments. Courage meant I could resume horseback riding, solitary tenting and other abandoned joys. Optimism, peace and happiness were rediscovered and remain the underlying keynote of my life. I now listen to my body. I learned to receive, as well as, give love. I was so impressed with my results, I decided to make it my life’s work. Twenty-three years as a practitioner has increased my enthusiasm. I am not an exceptional person, transitions were natural and easy. Rather, I lucked into a method that went beyond awareness to create changes at my core.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Making lives better one visit at a time! Our loving Care-Givers help Seniors maintain their independence and dignity while living in their own homes. Do you know someone who could use some help at home? We are here for you. Give Nurse Next Door a call and find out how we can provide you with quality home healthcare at an affordable price! We offer a wide range of services because everyone's needs are different. Check out our website for more details. www.nursenextdoorkelowna.ca ® In-Home Care, Support, Nurses & Companionship
250-450-9750 EMAIL: Kelowna@nursenextdoor.com
www.nursenextdoorkelowna.ca Call today for your free in home assessment
Are you feeling stuck? Want to change, but don’t know how? Do you have a talent you would like to develop? Then YOU will benefit from: RAPID, GENTLE, LASTING RESOLUTION OF INNER CONFLICTS • RAPID: Dramatically reduces the time you need to create positive, permanent results.
• GENTLE: No need to relive your pain. • LASTING: Transforms deepest core beliefs
Now accredited as The College of Core Belief Engineering
on ALL levels. Changes last and accumulate. UPCOMING WORKSHOPS Check out my website for more information.
Laara Bracken, B.Sc. Certified Master Practitioner 23 yrs. experience KELOWNA
250-763-6265
PHONE SESSIONS VERY EFFECTIVE www.changecorebeliefs.com BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
23
f ro m f at to f i t
Make YOU your First Priority Submitted by Errol N. Hannigan
Like many others, this individual had no idea where to start or how to go about and so I worked out a personal nutrition and fitness program.
Not long after giving a talk on faith and fitness to a group, someone came up to me and said, "Help me." How could anyone refuse that plea? This individual was overweight and just been diagnosed with Type II diabetes. I know that this type of diabetes is preventable if people keep their weight down and exercise, but it carries with it the possibility of damage to the nerves and small blood vessels of the eyes, kidneys and heart and predisposes a person to atherosclerosis (hardening) of the large arteries that can cause heart attack, stroke and even lead to amputation. This person’s doctor had advised that it’s possible to lessen or even overcome these associated problems if one started eating better and exercising right away. Like many others, this individual had no idea where to start or how to go about it and so I worked out a personal nutrition and fitness program. It was our last conversation that compelled me to write this article. I asked this individual how the program was going and the reply was,“OK, but I am just too busy to find the time to exercise.” When intelligent people say they’re is too busy to look after their own health,it raises serious questions about what is truly important in life. So I said,“You need to make your health your first priority, or all the other things you do in life will quite possibly end up being in vain.” This person, like all of us, needs to put health first and foremost. If we don’t do that, we are jeopardizing our future and the amount of time and enjoyment we will have with the ones we love. Soon after you read this article it will be Christmas and I 24
am asking/pleading with all readers to make the decision to give yourself and your family a special gift,one of your good health. So many diseases and problems are brought on by our poor diets and lack of exercise. I know because I was there.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
When I was overweight, I had dangerously high blood pressure that required medication. I was depressed and on meds for that, as well as, feeling achy and tired most of the time. But once I lost weight and got into better shape, my blood pressure went back to normal and I was no longer depressed.I have more energy and feel better than I have in years. Give the real gift that keeps on giving and decide to get into better physical condition. Your loved ones are depending on you to be around and in the best health possible, so make the decision to look after your diet and schedule some exercise. You only have one life, so why not enjoy it to its fullest and in the best health possible? Anyone wishing more information on fitness or if you have any questions feel free to contact me at enh@telus.net
ERROL N.HANNIGAN,Fitness Ambassador/Writer has become a health and fitness advocate who has channeled his personal experience and training into areas that promote physical fitness and works to encourage Canadians of all ages to practice healthier lifestyles. He is currently writing a book on his two passions, Faith & Fitness.
Sport & Recreation... for fun, for health, for life! • 25 M pool • hot tub, steam room • cardio, weight, and circuit training rooms • hundreds of fun, low impact programs designed to maintain mobility • reduced facility rates for those over 65!
250-469-8800 PARKINSON RECREATION CENTRE 1800 Parkinson Way (Spall & Hwy 97) Visit us on line at www.sportandreckelowna.ca BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Watch for the
NEW Winter Guide 25
Beauty and Baskets Submitted by Candace Cameron
PHOTO • EXPRESS GIFT BASKETS
When it comes to picking and filling a container, be creative! You don’t always have to use a basket.
A gift basket can be the perfect present for anyone on your Christmas list. But creating one can seem like a daunting task! Here are some tips: First, decide on a budget. It is easy to overspend, especially if you try to fill a large basket. Consider picking out your products first, then choosing the size to accommodate them. When it comes to deciding on products, a theme will make your choices easier and your basket more cohesive. Some possible themes include color (you can make all the products green and red);seasonal (a basket full of Christmas decorations); or related products (like a spa basket or a gift of different coffee items). Start by purchasing the more expensive gifts, then fill out your budget and your basket with less expensive items. Using the example of a coffee basket, you could start with some mugs, cloth napkins and tins of specialty coffee. Then fill things in with coffee-scented candles, a spoon rest and individual hot chocolate packets. Try to find items that vary in size and height. When it comes to picking and filling a container, be creative! You don’t always have to use a basket. For a small gift, arrange your items in a coffee mug or wide-mouthed vase. A medium sized ceramic bowl is another interesting option. You can fill in the blank spots and add some color with shredded or tissue paper - put it in as you go to get the product to stay where you want it.Wrap the whole thing in cellophane and top it with a bow or ornament. The staff at your local Paragon Gift Gallery is happy to 26
help you choose items and put together a beautiful gift basket, whatever the occasion. In cosmetics, one of this year’s hot trends is mineral makeup. This makeup is manufactured with minerals from the earth that are sterilized, then pulverized or ground into a very fine powder. This powder is mixed with a variety of natural inorganic colourings resulting in a rainbow of beautiful cosmetic shades.Virtually all cosmetics,from loose powders and cover-ups, to blushes and eye shadows, are now available in mineral formulations. Unlike most cosmetics, the prime ingredients in mineral makeup products are natural inorganic, so bacteria and microbes cannot live in the makeup and infect the skin.This gives these products a long shelf life without the need for preservatives. Mineral makeup is also non-comedogenic, which means it will not block pores and allows the skin to breath. For all these reasons, mineral makeup can be a good choice for women with sensitive skin,rosacea,dryness,acne, or other skin conditions. Most people find them to be skinfriendly products that will not further aggravate skin problems. Some of the cosmetic lines that carry mineral makeup options include Maybelline,L’Oreal,Revlon,Rimmel,and the Feenix line, which is exclusive to your Paragon Community Pharmacy cosmetics boutiques. CANDACE CAMERON is a graphic designer and the Marketing Coordinator for Paragon Community Pharmacy. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Past issues of Beyond 50 can be read online at www.beyond50mag.com
Engraving by hand on crystal, glassware, silver, brass, golf clubs, wine, fragrance bottles. Denise Nielson
250-215-5412
www.handengraving.ca
e-mail: inscriptions@shaw.ca
You may have seen me at: Summerhill Wine Shop • POSH • Evergreen • BC Summer Games • SEARS • Hotel Eldorado • The BAY
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
27
Winter Gallery Photos by Heather Hollingdale
Heather has been a portrait and fine art photographer for over 10 years. Since moving to Kelowna her work has tended to explore the lines and structures found in nature and the architecture of plants.Heather loves the landscapes and plant life of the Okanagan and the way that the light in autumn and winter makes colours brighter and richer. She is also extremely fond of Polaroid film, and some of the images shown here are Polaroid SX-70 manipulations. To view more of Heather’s work and make inquiries on commissions and prints, visit her website: AtomicDaisy.Com.
28
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
29
In Charge of your Life? Submitted by Arlene Rannelli
We don’t know where to turn to ensure our lifestyle and/or to get ahead and at least have some hope of enjoying the retirement we have been dreaming of.
Given the financial mess that is occurring in the world these days, it is both interesting and disheartening to watch people scramble looking for the next miracle idea, product, or solution that will save them from disaster. We don’t know where to turn to ensure our lifestyle and/or to get ahead and at least have some hope of enjoying the retirement we have been dreaming of. I spent 15 years in the financial field from 1974 through 1989, and during that time I learned a great deal about people and what seemed to be important to them. I appeared on CHBC TV with a stock market weekly wrap-up and during the late 80s, when the markets dropped considerably, panic ensued and everyone was looking for someone to tell them what to do next. I have found that, in general, people have a tendency to seek guidance on which route to take, what rules to follow and how to make choices in their lives that will benefit them. The problem with trusting others to 30
give us our answers is that we then attempt to live someone else’s way and we are continuously attempting to fit a square peg into a round hole. It doesn’t work! What would happen if we were to take responsibility for our own lives? What if we found out that no one outside of ourselves actually has the right answer for us? We are the only ones who really know what is truly most important to us. We are the only ones who have the internal intuition to guide us to our own answers. The problem is that we stopped
listening to the intuitive voice inside of us and we began listening to our ego and/or to other people. At this point in the game, we have difficulty figuring out which voice is speaking so we don’t trust the answers that come from within. We end up feeling like victims in this game of life and we have many people, and our own ego, to blame for the mess we find ourselves in. There is a solution! All we need to do is to begin living our lives according to what is truly most important to us. We need to tell ourselves the truth
Give the Gift that will
Change Her Life
Imagine the impact you will have on her life when you give this empowering resource of inspiration, motivation and life guidance. Author Arlene Rannelli joined 49 other powerful women of transformation, personal growth and change to create this ultimate guide for women. Get your autographed copy and give the gift that will have her saying,
“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Call 250-317-4627 or go to
www.masteringyouressentialenergy.com BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
when we ask ourselves what we want. That is the most difficult question for most people to answer. Most people end up dying without ever having truly lived! We get so caught up in what we are supposed to want - what society says is best for us that we have developed an image and most people never get past their image. Do you have a desire to experience a more meaningful life? Do you ever have moments when you feel absolutely terrific - as though everything is working incredibly well in your life and time just passes without you even being aware of it? Are you aware that in those moments you are living in your “Essential Energy” and you are directly connected to Source Energy or God Energy? Would you like to live in that feeling more often, doing what you love, being guided by the true intuitive voice inside of you and experiencing a meaningful and fulfilling life? Is the way you are currently living honoring you? Do you have a sense of what you want to experience in your life? Do you ever wonder,“How do I get there from here?.” The decision to be the master of your life is up to you. The decision to trust yourself and live your life in accordance with what is truly most important to you, is your choice. One of these days, your life will be over. Will you leave this planet celebrating your life and thinking, “Yeah me! I lived according to my beliefs and values and I honored the gift of life I was given?” Or will you be one of the people leaving the planet thinking,“I wish it had been different. I wish I would have had the courage to live up to my own beliefs and live what was truly most important to me while I had the chance?” In this life, it is all choice, and the choice belongs to each of us. Choose wisely! ARLENE RANNELLI is a Facilitator, Life Coach, Key Note Speaker. Check out her website at www.masteringyouressentialenergy.com BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
31
kickstart
JOIN US FOR A WINTER WALK Meet friends and neighbours for a friendly walk. You'll feel invigorated, you'll connect with new friends, and you'll increase your over-all health and well-being just by taking a few steps.Maybe you could even start up a walking group in your own neighbourhood. Everyone is welcome and there is no fee to try out a walk. Please arrive on time for walks. ORCHARD PARK SHOPPING MALL 2271 Hwy 97 WHERE TO MEET: East side of Mall. Enter through side door Near Pearl Vision Tues. (7 weeks) Jan. 13 - Feb. 24 7:00 - 8:00am CAPITAL NEWS CENTRE INDOOR WALKING TRACK Gordon Drive and Lequime WHERE TO MEET: Lobby Downstairs Wed. (7 weeks) Jan. 14 - Feb. 25 11:30am - 12:30pm
Highway to Health
The Power of Potential
MISSION CREEK GREENWAY SPRINGFIELD PARK Springfield Rd at Durnin Rd. WHERE TO MEET: The Gazebo next to the EECO Centre Mar. 2 10:30 - 11:30am MISSION CREEK GREENWAY SPRINGFIELD PARK Springfield Rd at Durnin Rd. WHERE TO MEET: The Gazebo next to the EECO Centre Mar. 9 10:30 - 11:30am
KICKSTART YOUR HEALTH IN 2009
Crystal Flaman Wed. Jan. 21, 2009 7:00 - 8:30pm
With
Rotary Centre for the Arts Mary Irwin Theatre Unlock your potential and KickStart the New Year with this dynamic presentation. Crystal will engage you with her interactive presentation based on her own personal trials and tribulations. Crystal will share her own challenges on how she
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 250-469-8811
became a successful Entrepreneur, business owner, teacher, and accomplished athlete. Crystal’s message is clear; “Aim to become not only the best IN the world, but also the best FOR the world!” Join this interactive and informative discussion specifically designed to help you gain insight and tips on how to become active, healthy, and how to discover your untapped potential. Tickets available Dec. 15 at the Rotary Centre for the Arts Ticket office. FREE to Steps Out participants and anyone interested in
ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY WALKS
Snow Shoe Walks
Jan. 28 - 4:30-6:00pm Mission Creek Greenway at EECO Centre Feb 25 - 4:30-6:30pm Mission Creek Greenway at EECO Centre COST: $5 per person, $15 with snow shoe rental
KickStarting their life! Limited Tickets available Call 250-469-8811 for more information
B E A C T I V E | S TAY A C T I V E
TO REGISTER CALL
250-469-6140 (space is limited) 32
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
COACH - Kelowna’s Cardiac Rehab Submitted by Helen Kaulbach
Statistics show that heart patients who attend a cardiac rehab program have a 26 per cent reduction in mortality over those who go home with no rehab.
Exercise Specialist, Calla Buzunis, of COACH, checks on patient, Guy Voyer, during an exercise session at COACH’s clinic.
One of the treasures of Kelowna’s health care system making a huge difference in people’s lives is COACH Central Okanagan Association for Cardiac Health. COACH started nine years ago when two cardiologists made a proposal to Kelowna General Hospital that a cardiac rehab program was needed in the area. Jennifer Charles, a Director on the Board of COACH, and Administrative Liaison with the staff, said that before the association was formed, patients recovering from a heart attack, by-pass surgery or any form of heart disease, got some recovery instruction in the hospital, but no other support once they left. Patients who later developed problems usually ended up back in hospital. Now anyone leaving the hospital after a heart event is referred to COACH. Charles stressed that COACH is a non-profit association with only 30 per cent of its costs covered by patient fees.The rest is raised by donations and fundraising events. COACH’s eight-week program is two-fold. The primary program is prevention for people who are at high risk of having a heart attack. They can be referred by family physician or cardiologist. The secondary program is for patients who have had a heart attack or by-pass surgery. They usually go into the program shortly after their release from hospital. COACH staff member, Jacqueline Gabelhouse, said that a team of experts, including kinesiologists, exercise therapists and dieticians, provide patients with guidelines to safely start a program that will help them regain their strength, as well as lifestyle changes in nutrition, medication and stress BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
management to help prevent a reoccurrence. They also encourage spouses to attend. Statistics show that heart patients who attend a cardiac rehab program have a 26 per cent reduction in mortality over those who go home with no rehab. COACH patients also had lower hospital readmission rates and shorter stays when they were readmitted, resulting in substantial savings to the health care system. An affiliate of COACH is KCES - Kelowna Coronary Exercise Society - to which COACH graduates are referred for continuing support. KCES meets three times a week at the Capital News Centre. Lois Conradi, a graduate of COACH, who now goes to KCES, is enthusiastic about the program.“When something happens to your heart, you’re scared to death - afraid to exercise, afraid to move even, in case something goes wrong. COACH gives you the confidence to face these fears. You start slowly, you’re constantly monitored and someone is always there. You feel very secure as you work to regain your health and strength. The staff is very supportive and they’ve been there when I needed them. I’m very glad I went through the program.” With a large referral base of 1.2 million throughout central B.C., Kelowna General is fortunate to have this association realizing huge cost saving and preventing readmissions. And heart patients in Kelowna are fortunate to have this support system. HELEN KAULBACH is a freelance writer from Kelowna and a past contributor to Beyond 50.
33
Don’t let Diabetes break your stride… Submitted by Lise Dallien and Sean MacMillan
...many diabetics wear their shoes too small without realizing it. This can cause circulation restriction, skin breakdown and possibly infection.
Diabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are dangerously high due to a lack of naturally occurring insulin. It can be diagnosed in children (type I) or in adults (type II). This process can become harmful to various organs and systems within the body. The effects of diabetes can alter how the nervous system works reducing sensation in the feet. In advanced or poorly controlled diabetes, neuropathy (nerve death) results.Circulation damage slows the body’s healing mechanism, which increases the likelihood of developing infections. Stiffer joints make it more challenging to bend to take care of the feet. Compromised vision add more difficulty in providing regular foot care. Shoe fit is particularly important with diabetes.A compromised nervous system can affect the degree of sensation of the skin. As a result, many diabetics wear their shoes too small without realizing it. This can cause circulation restriction, skin breakdown and possibly infection. Don’t take your health and feet for granted. The leading cause of amputations is due to complications resulting from diabetes. 34
What can you do to protect your feet? 1. Make sure footwear fits well. a) Have both feet measured when standing.Keep in mind that feet change with age, weight gain, pregnancy, hormonal changes and time of day (usually larger at the end of the day) b) One foot is often bigger than the other. Fit to the largest foot. c) Try on both shoes, walk around and be sure that the footwear is comfort-able immediately. d) Don’t rely on the shoe“stretching” or breaking in the shoe. This occurs at the expense of your foot. 2. Never walk barefoot. Have supportive footwear for the home,garden,etc.
Orthoquest Pedorthics
3.Always check the inside of your shoes before putting them on to inspect for objects that should not be there. 4. Practice good foot care by keeping toe nails and skin healthy. Consult with a foot care nurse regularly. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.ca), all people living with diabetes should have their feet examined at least once a year to avoid the risk of developing complications. 5. Control your diabetes through a healthy diet,moderate exercise,coping mechanisms to deal with stress and regular communication with your family physician. If you have any discomfort, callus• Biomechanical video assessments • Prescription foot orthotics & footwear modifications • All foot orthotics fabricated in house
CERTIFIED PEDORTHISTS CANADA SEAN MACMILLAN 1468 St. Paul St., Kelowna
LISE DALLIEN 205-3320 Richter St., Kelowna
250-861-9091
250-860-4181
www.orthoquestpedorthics.com BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
ing, corns or irritation on your feet, a Certified Pedorthist (Canada) can examine your them and study how you walk.Custom foot orthotics can be designed for your shoes in order to alleviate pressure that may be causing irritation. Always treat diabetes with care and attention in order to manage symptoms,quality of life and longevity.
Poem for Older Men A man is not old when his hair turns gray, A man is not old when his teeth decay, A man is only old and getting weak, When his mind makes appointments His body can not keep. - ANONYMOUS
This article was provided by Orthoquest Pedorthics, a company that analyzes how people walk and,designs and manufactures custom foot orthotics. Sean MacMillan operates the downtown clinic 250-861-9091.Lise Dallien operates the Mission clinic 250-860-4181.
Do you have sensitive skin? Are you tired of wasting money on expensive product?
SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY OFFER
Sensé beautiful science® is a complete line of skin care products, without added chemical preservatives, for healthy looking skin and a healthier you. TRIAL SIZE
9.99
One Week Supply $ ONLY
+tax
Great stocking stuffer, teacher’s gift, or Valentines Day present! To take advantage of this limited offer, call Mona McKay at 250-317-3886 or email mona-m@shaw.ca
www.mckay.usana.com INDEPENDENT ASSOCIATE
Because your health matters to us! Call 250-861-4443 and take advantage of our “Home Delivery Service” for all your personal shopping needs. • Free prescription delivery • Sales & Rentals - walkers, canes, mobility aids • Registered Nurse on staff specializing in foot care & flu shots (home visits may be arranged) • Check out our Best Treasures Boutique - gifts for all occasions OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: MON. - FRI. 9AM - 7PM SAT. 9AM - 5PM SUN. 10AM - 5PM HOLIDAYS 10AM - 5PM Locally owned and operated by Craig and Elena Tostenson
Proud to support our Community BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
GLENMORE • Glenvalley Plaza *next to Brandt’s Creek Pub
35
Sudoku Solution
LIST OF ADVERTISERS Arlene Rannelli . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Banner Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 BC Housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 BC Wine Institute & VQA Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 BT’s European Auto Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Canadian Cancer Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Care Angels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Central Okanagan Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Chances Gaming Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Charlene Bertrand - Coldwell Banker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Colleen Pfannenschmidt - Raymond James . . . . . . . . . .15 Crossfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Diane’s Fine Jewellery and Gifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 EARA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Easy Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Esteem Lingerie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Global Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 GMS Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Helmut Hubert - Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. . . .17 Jeremy Mason - Odlum Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Kelowna Actors Studio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Kelowna Curling Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Kelowna Gospel Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 Kelowna Health Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Kelowna Laser & Hair Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Kelowna Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Kelowna Pool Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 KGH Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Kickstart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Laara Bracken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Labossiere & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Lasting Inscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 MS Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Nurse Next Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Orthoquest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 OUC Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Oxy Dry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Paragon IDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Pharmasave - Glenmore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Pine Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Project Literacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Quality Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Regional District Central Okanagan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Rosebud’s Designer Consignment Boutique . . . . . . . . .39 Rotary Centre for the Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 Salvation Army . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Seeger & Son . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Sport & Recreation - City of Kelowna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Sylvia Fleming - World Financial Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 T-Zone Vibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 The Body Firm Wellness Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 The Kelowna Home Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Urban Redesigns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 USANA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 V Spot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
36
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
c a l e n d a r o f e ve nt s
What’s happening This calendar of events is compliments of Community Information and Volunteer Centre 250-763-8008 DECEMBER 2008 10 Human Rights Day 60th Anniversary JANUARY 2009 Mothers March (March of Dimes) Kinsmen 4 World Braille Day 9, 10, 11 Avalanche Awareness 18 World Religion Day 18-24 National Non-smoking Week www.quitnow.ca FEBRUARY 2009 Heart and Stroke Month Junior Achievement Month 7 30th Annual Heart & Stroke Foundation Curl-a- Thon at Kelowna Curling Club 1-7 International Coaching Week 3-9 Eating Disorder Week 6-14 Spirit of BC Week 2008 www.spiritofbc.com
17 Thompson Okanagan Housing Awards, Grand Okanagan Hotel 25 Walk for Memories Alzheimer Society of BC 21-27 National Family Literacy Week 27 National Family Literacy Day 14 Annual Heart & Stroke Celebrity Breakfast Coast Capri Hotel 15 National Flag Day 14 Annual Okanagan Arts Awards 14, 15 Kelowna Health Show at The Grand Okanagan 18-22 Chamber of Commerce Week in BC 9-16 Heritage Week
The listing of an event in the Calendar of Events does not indicate endorsement and the exclusion of an event does not imply any disapproval by Kelowna Community Resources. If you have a fundraising event and need volunteers please contact Community Information and Volunteer Centre for inclusion in the Calendar of Events 250.763.8008 E24.
www.kcr.ca
To obtain a free copy of the Okanagan Volunteer Opportunities Fair booklet and more information on volunteering in our community please visit our office at 120-1735 Dolphin Avenue or email informkelowna@kcr.ca. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
37
On the Move - Ballet Kelowna Submitted by Judith Lane
PHOTO • GLENNA TURNBULL
Ballet Kelowna’s young dancers together with LaHay regularly take centre stage after the performances to engage audiences in informal question and answer sessions ...
Christina Cecchini & Cai Glover.
En pointe for just five years, Ballet Kelowna has established its place on the Canadian ballet scene as a bold, innovative dance company.Since its inception, this youthful troupe (ages range from 18 to 23) of rising ballet stars has moved local audiences with its captivating artistry. And it takes the show on the road. In its first season Ballet Kelowna staged seven performances in six towns. They now tour twice a year, presenting 50 performances that entertain, inspire, and thrill audiences in over 30 communities from Dawson Creek in the north, Grand Prairie in the east, southern towns like Oliver and Trail, to North Vancouver on the coast. Setting Ballet Kelowna apart from other companies are its boutique size, professionalism, and total commitment to Canadian dancers and choreographers. The troupe boasts six vibrant dancers bursting with energy and talent, ever ready to excel, impress, and stir audiences as they dance an inspiring repertoire of classical and contemporary ballets, including original works by Artistic Director David LaHay and six award winning Canadian choreographers. The compactness of the company in combination with relatively small out-of-town theatres affords an intimacy and a connection with audiences not found with larger troupes and venues. Ballet Kelowna’s young dancers together with LaHay regularly take centre stage after the performances to engage audiences in informal question and answer sessions that enhance attendees’ perception of dance, and in many instances, instill a love of the art. Some are entranced by the sheer physical work that these dancers routinely undertake in order to keep their 38
bodies in optimum condition. Often compared to finely tuned racehorses, they display a level of athleticism similar to Olympic athletes. It’s all part of the commitment they make to their art and to Ballet Kelowna. LaHay and his company thrill when first time attendees remark that they’re “hooked.” They love that they have the ability to touch people, and can instill and nurture a love of dance. There’s a reason that many of Ballet Kelowna’s touring performances are so popular. The company’s boutique size enhances its dynamic repertoire, engaging children and adults alike with excerpts from classical and contemporary ballets. These bring excitement, immediacy, and intimacy to the dance, seamlessly delivering the essence of each piece. The hugely successful fall season included Bolero, a vibrant new ballet from Artistic Director LaHay, and an elegantly bold, innovative work by Gioconda Barbuto ‘Negotiating Shifts’ that fulfill Ballet Kelowna’s desire to inspire and entertain. They do. The June 2008 issue of Ballet-Dance magazine notes, “David LaHay is an energetic, intelligent, knowledgeable and canny artistic director who displays impeccably trained dancers in an eclectic performance. His little troupe is a joy to watch.” This spring, Ballet Kelowna will premiere “The Promise of Angels & Other Works” on February 6th at Kelowna Community Theatre before touring the show to over 15 communities throughout B.C.and even Alberta. For full tour information and to learn more about Ballet Kelowna, visit BalletKelowna.ca. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Beyond 50 Magazine maybe picked up or enjoyed at the following locations:
Monday to Friday 10am - 5:30pm Saturday 10am - 4pm
NOW OPEN Sundays 12 - 4pm
Rosebuds Designer Consignment Boutique
Spanx
G E N T LY
OPEN:
“You CAN always afford to look beautiful” Designer Labels Handbags Jewelry Ed Hardy Professional Engraving Evening Shopping Parties
A N D
IN BUSINESS 19 YEARS
N E W
Kelowna A & W - Leathead A & W - Gordon A & W - Harvey Chances Entertainment Lounge Blenz – Glenmore Capri Centre Mall Cooper’s - Rutland Cooper’s - Mission Dyck’s Medicine Centre Greyhound Jus Juiced & Bean Caffe Kelowna Chamber of Commerce Kelowna Community Resources Kelowna General Hospital Market Place IGA Marmalade Cat Paragon Community Pharmacy -Black Mountain -Centuria -Glenpark -Mission Centre -Lake Country Percs Perkins Family Restaurant Pharmasave - Glenmore Pharmasave - Mission Rosebud’s Consignment Store Rutland IGA Rutland Seniors Center Second Cup Seniors Outreach Services Society The Haven - Your Breakfast Retreat The Women’s Place Tim Horton’s Town Centre Mall White Spot Zeller’s CFDC Building Valley Bowling Lanes Water Street Seniors
U S E D
Lake Country A&W Café Caliente Coopers Curves IDA Pharmacy Market Place IGA Pharmasave Winfield IDA Wooden Nickel Café
Ask us about our
THE
FUND
Let’s help the ladies in our community. 150-1855 Kirschner Rd. Kelowna DESIGNER CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE
250-861-1911
Westbank A&W Blenz Bodyfit Byland’s Cooper’s Curves Esteem Lingerie Extra Foods Shopper’s Drug Mart Staples Pharmasave UPS Store Vintage Resale Zellers Peachland Community Centre Curves Serendipity Spa BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
39
The Music is in You: A Family's Evolution Submitted by Noel Wentworth
As I understand it, my father started selling a few guitars in the front window. They sold and he ordered a few more...
Wentworth’s first day in operation under the name Wentworth House of music.
So what does a kid growing up in a family of musicians end up doing? In my case, it was a bunch of different jobs including a brief career as a Vidal Sassoon hair dresser (that’s another story).In the end,the kid winds up back in the business with the rest of the family, not because I had to, but because it was just the natural place for me to be. Wentworth Music goes back four decades in the Okanagan. Am I proud of that legacy? You bet. Anyone who has had anything to do with music in the valley at some point has come through our doors. Ask my family and you’ll hear stories of people like Vinnie Paul, Paul Rogers or Roy Orbison. Would you believe that Wentworth Music started as an electrical shop? It’s one of those stories you hear about that’s just kind of neat to know. My grandfather Walt, who had just retired from the air force as an electrical engineer working on projects like the Avro Arrow, got a job working for Capri Electric in the Capri Centre Mall. One day he came home from work and told my grandmother Vera that he bought the business then renamed it Capri House of Lights. Shortly thereafter my father,Dale,began teaching guitar out of the back of the shop as he was articling to be an accountant. As I understand it, my father started selling a few guitars in the front window. They sold and he ordered a few more. The day came that Capri House of Lights was shrinking and the music store started taking shape.With the support of his 40
parents and with the suggestion of one of the new music suppliers, the business was renamed Wentworth House of Music (later shortened to Wentworth Music). The store moved from Capri Mall to Sutherland Avenue where the family expanded the teaching operation and floor space. My dad met my mom Hedy, who was hired on as a piano and voice teacher. Seven months later they married - I think my mom’s cooking that was the deciding
L to R: Back row - Noel , Hedy and Dale Wentworth. Front row - Neil , Lora , Vera and Nori Wentworth. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
If you saw the movie, School of Rock, factor there. They had three kids, Noel and its final scene featuring the battle (that’s me), Neil and Nori. Although we of the bands, you’d have a good idea of were never encouraged to pick up an my vision. Almost every student who instrument, we all gravitated to music has been in one of our shows will say like sticks to a drum - pun intended. the same thing backstage,“I want to do I suppose, like my father, I learned that again!” They have a hard time the business from the outside in. falling asleep because of the rush they Starting out as a performing musician,I got from 800 screaming people. went to music school where I met my We have single handedly inspired wife, Lora, and got a diploma. I came our students and kept them away from back from school, performed regularly video games at the same time.The best and taught music lessons full time. part is that all the proceeds from our When the opportunity presented shows go towards charity. Together itself for Lora and I to start a music with Interior Savings, this year alone we school and rekindle what my father have raised almost $6,000 for the had started years earlier, we dove in children’s ward at Kelowna General with both feet. Over time we ended up Hospital. teaching kids whose parents took With that in mind, mark February 14, lessons from Wentworth when they 2009, on your calendar as we perform were young. Walt and Vera Wentworth our tribute to Bryan Adams at the Here’s the neat part: during the in Deep Cove 1942. Kelowna Community Theatre. Tickets extended days of starting a music school, I had a crazy dream, one that I had been kicking are on sale in December through ticketmaster.ca. These shows are truly awesome, as well as, being a great around for years. It was something that hadn’t been done before in Canada. I took students and put on shows that family event! What else can you do in town like this for the would rival anything you would see on tour with other price of going to a movie and some popcorn? Come check it out! www.wmec.ca professional groups.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
41
e l e c t ro n i c a l l y s p e a k i n g
Create a Aural Legacy Submitted by Tim Elliot
Everybody has a story and there are many ways to tell it. Joe’s just happens to be in song.
Joe at the microphone.
The man sitting in my studio with his guitar poised and microphones adjusted, was grinning like a kid in a candy store. After singing and playing for 70 years, Joe was thoroughly enjoying his first time in a recording studio. I spun slowly around in my chair and hit the record button as he launched into his first number. Suddenly I was the one grinning. It was an amazing performance with him singing, playing guitar and...yes, yodeling. I felt so honoured to be the one to capture Joe’s music for his family. His session fit perfectly with our mission at Everybody’s Audio Recording and Archiving in Kelowna. Everybody has a story and there are many ways to tell it. Joe’s just happens to be in song. Peter had been a child POW during the Second World War in Shanghai. His was a story to be told and he had been frustrated trying the typical means of writing, typing and even recording himself. Our studio set the mood so he 42
could relax without having to focus on the technical aspects. I enjoyed meeting and listening to him as he recounted his personal journey. With every detail, every inflection in his voice, I was transported into the world that helped shape his life. What a treasure for his family to appreciate and draw on for generations to come. There has been plenty of emphasis on stardom in the media. The cattle call for talent has spun off many variations of the celebrity-making reality shows. When I listen to people such as Joe and Peter, it seems to me that they are already stars - at least to their families. Whether they acknowledge it or not, they are heroes to many. To borrow from a line in a well-known song,they are the wind beneath our wings. Capturing and preserving these peoples’ voices and their stories honours them in a way unlike any other. Voices for Eternity is a unique package that was created specifically with this in mind. We produce a top-quality recording using broadcast microphones in either our studio or the client’s home. A single session consists of two hours during which we record our client, take pictures if desired, and generally treat them like a star. The audio files, once mastered to archival standards, are stored in multiple formats in-house, as well as, on multiple servers online in password protected “family vaults.” Everyone gets their files on disk, which they can copy and have reproduced however they like. The online storage enables private access from virtually anywhere. Compatibility with future formats is a non-issue; you simply convert the files. What a privilege it will be to listen to the voice of someone we miss, years or even decades from now, hearing BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
them share their thoughts feelings and experiences from life. I wonder what that would mean to my kids, and their own children. To hear that person tell their story as though they were right there? And the actual sound of their voice - haven’t we all noticed how much grown-up children sound like their parents, especially on the phone? Our voice is as unique as our fingerprints and yet familiar to our lineage. Bruce Cockburn once wrote a song that has come back to haunt me lately. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
“No Footprints” may have a single message for most listeners, but with my father’s passing one year ago came a fresh and growing imperative. When we go, we take nothing but our footprints. In the meantime, my passionate quest is capturing these footprints - our aural footprints - for families to share for all time. Go to www.ear-a.com to learn more about the many services and packages from Everybody’s Audio Recording and Archiving. 43
Care for Our Community Day Submitted by Laurel D’Andrea
In our Fall issue, we told you that we were going to clothe and feed the homeless. Beyond 50 partnered with the TELUS Community Ambassadors and the Kelowna Gospel Mission. We collected warm clothing and blankets and the TELUS Community Ambassadors made up comfort kits that included items such as: a survival blanket, socks, toques and gloves and many other useful items. The meal served at the Kelowna Gospel Mission that day was hot stew and pumpkin pie. The individuals we helped that cold and rainy day redefined what life is about for a lot of people. They were so grateful for what this group of volunteers did.It was all about commitment, compassion and caring. The TELUS Community Ambassadors, Beyond 50 and The Kelowna Gospel Mission showed what can be done to make a difference. The support from the community was also greatly appreciated, we want to thank all of our readers who came down and helped or donated items. We also would like to acknowledge some others who helped make it happen: • CHBC - for covering our story • Gertie Johnston - IODE Thrift Shop Dr Knox Chapter - donations of clothing 44
• MCC Thrift Store - donation of clothing • Points West Realty - use of their truck to make it happen • Shoppers Home Health Care - a cane for a man who really needed it • Staff at Kelowna Gospel Mission - for being there each and every day
• Sunrise Rotary Club - donation of clothing A few items we could have used more of were: sweatshirts, hoodies, wool socks and men’s jeans. So if you have any lying around let us know and we will make sure they are given to those in need.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Most cars these days are built to be traded in. This one was built to be kept.
In our disposable society, there are few who recognize the beauty of the “classic.” Some things are irreplaceable. This passion may be shared by a few but when trying to find a mechanic it’s even more rare and more important. At BT’s European Auto Repair they not only share this passion but combine 30 years of experience with their passion to be the perfect fit for those who own and drive these “old beauties.” Need some help? Come in to BT’s European Auto Repair
and you’ll discover a friend you’ll keep for as long as you own your car... and that’s a long time!
727 Baillie Avenue, Kelowna • (Formerly the Volvo Shop)
250-862-3717 • TOLL FREE 1-888-862-3717 btseurope@telus.net www.btsauto.com
EMAIL:
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
45
Winter Driving Tips
Submitted by Ryan Detwiller Marketing & Communications Coordinator, Strategic Marketing, ICBC building trust. driving confidence.
Snow, sleet, rain and fog are just some of the challenging conditions you may encounter while driving in B.C.Use your common sense and remember that others are sharing the same road. Since weather is unpredictable, plan ahead to make your trip safer. Making sure your vehicle is seasonally prepared is just as important as slowing down and observing any posted traffic or road advisories. In poor weather, consider delaying your trip or taking transit. If you must drive in poor conditions, remember these tips: • Avoid driving through flooded or washed out roads. • Reduce your speed in wet conditions to avoid hydroplaning. • Turn off the cruise control in wet or slippery conditions to prevent wheel-spin. • Don’t drive with badly worn or under-inflated tires.
in extreme temperatures. • All-season tires are not designed for snow or severe winter conditions. Install a full set of official winter tires. Look for this symbol. • See and be seen. Clear all frost and snow from windows, mirrors, headlights, rear lights, hood and roof. • All-wheel and four-wheel drive vehicles should have the same type of tire on all four wheels. • Watch out for black ice, especially near shaded areas, bridges, overpasses and at intersections, where car exhaust and packed snow can ice up quickly. Check roads and weather before your trip:www.drivebc.ca or phone 1-800550-4997 or Cell: *4997.
MAKING THE DRIVE SAFER • Tell someone your route and have a safety kit in your vehicle including water, energy bars, first-aid kit, shovel and blanket. • Keep the wiper fluid topped-up for clearer visibility. • Allow yourself at least twice the normal breaking distance on wet or slippery roads. • Low-beams are more effective in fog or heavy snow. • Posted speed limits are designed for ideal road conditions. Slow down when driving on snow, ice, slush or rain. • Check tire pressure regularly. Pressure drops in colder conditions. • Use extreme caution when approaching highway maintenance equipment including plows, salt and sand trucks. Never pass on the right. • Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline from freezing 46
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
The Winter of my Discontent Submitted by Marilyn J. Brown
Comfort foods and holiday goodies are not a consolation to the need for micro-fleece sheets and comforters at day’s end.
I have never embraced winter. In fact, I fall into a hibernation pattern when the winds turn icy and coats become necessary Comfort foods and holiday goodies are not a consolation to the need for micro-fleece sheets and comforters at day’s end. Grey days and dropping temperatures makes me just plain grumpy. The winter of 2007 shouldn’t have been extraordinary in terms of managing the weather nasties. Yet, my patience was tested in ways I didn’t foresee. I was reminded of the sorry character, Joe Btfsplk of the Li’l Abner, with the dark rain cloud following him. I felt akin with the little fellow that winter. The blasts of Arctic air that arrived after early November compelled my husband and I to wrap and protect the sensitive shrubs before journeying overseas for a family celebration.Those plants probably had it better than we did in England. But the penetrating, damp cold we experienced there might have helped to fortify us for things to come. Back home, the Christmas schedule was hectic, but controllable... until six days before the Christmas feast with family and friends. One of the connections under the kitchen sink broke loose - while everyone was away, naturally - soaking the new laminate floor,a portion of the dining room carpet,and about a third of the basement below. It wasn’t on the scale of a tsunami or even a Fraser River flood, but it was a miserable thing to clean up, and it was emotional to see the new floor either busted up into pieces or with an undulating warp in it. Insurance would help, but not before the holiday BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
gatherings. We simply told visitors to bring their slippers and brace for our new“light industrial décor.” The flood taught us that you should never take household duties for granted. We got that memo, thanks. We didn’t need to have the furnace fail to enforce that lesson. Actually, we didn’t need the heating to quit on a handful of occasions before the end of January - playing Russian roulette with a temperamental furnace is never a good idea in the dead of winter. Did I forget to point out that the frigid temperatures sent my car’s battery to the Great Hereafter, too? And yet another dump of snow was in the forecast charming! My poor back began to give out and I felt another cold coming on. Gosh, how I needed to hibernate and step away from that shovel! My grumpiness was not improving. So what did that leave for the rest of that winter - since we were only into February and unfortunately there was no free trip to Mexico in sight? I guess I would have to cope with shedding my extra insulation around my middle before the gardening season began. So Lord, please spare me more obstacles this coming winter. I honestly can’t believe old Shakespeare could have understood just how “discontented” one can be, unless he stepped into my shoes. Make that snow boots. MARILYN BROWN is a regular contributor to Beyond 50 Magazine. We appreciate her fun perspectives and enthusiasm. We are grateful that she has chosen to share here talent and wit for our readers to enjoy!
47
Creative Interest becomes a Passion Submitted by Terry Weiss
“Pansies” Terry won Best Show Award in 2003 with the Calgary Sketch Club.
From a young age, I have always been interested in painting and colour.Considering I was the seventh child of eight living on a farm in Southern Saskatchewan in the 1920s and 30s, I did not have the supplies or instruction to paint like I wanted. But even as a child I found ways to create art out of materials I had. One of my favourite things to do was to flip through Eaton’s catalogues and find images of colour and allure to paste together to make a picture of my own.
“Sunrise at Jasper” Terry was a Camp Mother for the Sketch Club when she painted this in 2001.
48
“Isabela” is one of Terry’s granddaughters. Isabela was 2 1/2 when this was painted. She is now 16 and is in grade 12 in Maple Ridge. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
My pursuit in painting really started when I married my husband, Bill Weiss, left home for Saskatoon and started raising a family of four. I ended up taking lessons in Saskatoon from Hans Herald and Robert Harrison in Regina. By this time, my art skills were improving and I was really enjoying the activity. After moving to Calgary in 1972, I found employment managing an art gallery and frame shop, which encouraged me to devote more time to painting. During this time, I had the luxury to attend numerous workshops and lectures given by many well-known artists. Some years later, an artist friend, Jim Black, and I started a seniors’ art group in Calgary named “The Brush Strokes.” At first our group comprised of just six, and it was fun to be around people who enjoyed painting as much as I did. Twenty-five years later, there are 77 artists in the Brush Strokes showing and selling their paintings. I have been painting for many years,as well as teaching seniors the skill. My paintings hang in homes in most Canadian provinces, the United States, England, and Columbia, as well as in corporate offices in Calgary, and in a permanent collection at Foothills Hospital in Calgary.
“Ana” is another of Terry’s grand daughters, and she painted this when Ana was 8. Ana is now 20 and attends OUC-UBC.
TERRY WEISS moved to Saskatchewan to Alberta and then to BC. She now resides at Sandalwood Retirement Resort. She loves the fact that the people and staff are very friendly. She enjoys playing pool, cards, exercise classes and movie night. She has started a small art group and is hoping over the winter months more people will tap into their creativity and join them.
“Fitness that Fits your Lifestyle!” 10 minutes, 3 times a week is all you need! • Lose Weight/Inches • Tone Muscles • Drain Lymphatic System • Increase Bone Density • Boost Immune System No other facility offers what we do.
healthy 8 energized 8 happy We’re here to make your life better. Why not be healthier and happier?! You’ll be surprised what 10 minutes can do for you.
I have been going to the V-Spot for almost three years. I have found it has increased my energy level, helps keep my weight maintained and hey girls!! No cellulite. gotta' love it. Kathy "Rosebuds" In the first few months of coming to the V-Spot, I achieved greater results than I did going to the gym for years. I have been coming for just over one year and the change in my core stability has been great! Darcy Onosrychuk
www.thevspot.ca
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
WHOLE BODY VIBRATION
Fitness & Wellness Centre 2080 B Springfield Road Orchard Plaza, Kelowna
250.762.2054
49
KELOWNA MUSEUMS PHOTO • KELOWNA PUBLIC ARCHIVES
Alive with Our History PHOTO • KELOWNA PUBLIC ARCHIVES
Submitted by Risti Nykiforuk
Circa 1808, Vernon.
There are four museums operated by the Kelowna Museums Society, a non-profit organization that promotes a greater interest and awareness of the natural, cultural, agricultural, and military heritages of the Okanagan region. Located in the heart of Kelowna’s Cultural District, the Kelowna Museums offer a wide selection of exhibitions, educational and public programs, and special events. Your four Kelowna Museums are: the Okanagan Heritage Museum, the BC Orchard Industry Museum, the BC Wine Museum & VQA Wine Shop, and the Okanagan Military Museum. Each museum acts on your behalf to collect, preserve, interpret, and display the items of historical significance in our community. You can visit all four museums on a self-guided walking tour, starting at the corner of Ellis and Queensway at the Okanagan Heritage Museum. This museum documents the cultural and natural histories of the Okanagan, from the First Nation inhabitants to the first European settlers and onwards. On January 8, 2009, the museum will debut an exhibition on the photography of war. Make sure to visit in the New Year and check it out! Next, head over to the Okanagan Military Museum, located inside the Memorial Arena on the corner of Ellis and Doyle. This museum is dedicated to the preservation and awareness of Okanagan military heritage and houses a significant collection of small arms, uniforms, insignia, and equipment, including artifacts from every major war of the 20th century. Your next stop is the historic Laurel Packinghouse, 50
Kelowna’s first designated heritage building, located on the corner of Ellis and Cawston. The Laurel Packinghouse was built over the winter of 1917/1918. In its heyday, the Laurel was one of many fruit packinghouses that packed and shipped Okanagan tree fruits to markets across Canada and the world. Today, it is home to the BC Orchard Industry Museum and the BC Wine Museum & VQA Wine Shop. The BC Orchard Industry Museum explores the Okanagan’s roots in the orchard industry through engaging exhibits on irrigation, picking, packing, and more. Mark your calendars now and join us at the Laurel Packinghouse for the 14th Annual Cherry Fair on July 25, 2009, and enjoy a day filled with cherry treats and festivities. Finish your walking tour with a complimentary wine tasting at the BC Wine Museum & VQA Wine Shop where the knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect wine from over 400 listings of BC VQA wines. There is so much to learn about our home and about the people and events that have shaped our community. The Kelowna Museums encourage you to explore and discover something new. To learn more about the Kelowna Museums please visit us online at www.Kelowna Museums.ca. To learn more about Kelowna’s Cultural District please visit www.ArtsinKelowna.com. RISTI NYKIFORUK is the Marketing & Special Events Coordinator for the Kelowna Museums. Events@KelownaMuseums.ca or 250-763-2417. BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
Auld Land Syne Submitted by Phyllis Rowe
Thirty-eight years later, after he was gone, I foolishly played Glen Miller’s rendition of Auld Lang Syne over and over again, hoping to become immune to the memory pangs this music aroused in me.
Phyllis and Holly.
1788. Auld Lang Syne - this traditional song was composed by Scotsman, Robert Burns. Singing and sprightly dancing accompany this music in Scotland. The tune is used for a Dutch football song. Translated into Danish in 1927, a rock group recently modernized the melody. In Japan, France, Spain, Poland, United States, Canada - this song is time-honoured, heralding in the New Year world over. December 31, 1947. On my winter wedding day Auld Lang Syne was ushered into my life. Here is my story: Mom and Aunt Dorrice baked for days and nights in preparation for a reception to follow the wedding ceremony. The kitchen woodstove huffed and puffed with decadent dates for a double recipe of Date-Filled Cookies. A large pan with spitting shortening was melting for Easy Donuts. Bittersweet chocolate and aromatic coffee was a decadent mixture for Feather Devil’s Food Cake. Zesty 52
lemon filling bursting with balloon-like plops was ready for tarts or filling for one of the many One-Egg Layer Cakes. Assorted spiced, sliced meat and circles of cheese for openfaced sandwiches were lined up on the cupboard and on makeshift shelves in the shed. They were covered and tucked around with tea towels and waxed paper to keep inquisitive fingers from sampling the bountiful spread. Fearing hearty appetites and the possibility of running short on food, a decision was made at dawn on the 31st. A few cups of milk and more eggs were necessary to mix up another cake or two. “We’ll have to surprise Bossy with an early milking,” said Mom. Sweaters were tossed over shoulders as Mom and Aunt Dorrice briskly trotted to the barn. Mom milked Bossy. Aunt Dorrice used her apron to gather warm eggs from under hens that sat stunned on their nest. On their way from the barn they brought in a few sticks of hardwood for the stove to keep it piping hot. The mixing spoons were in motion again. At daylight they looked with sleepy satisfaction over the copious results of their labours. “Let’s find our pillows,” sighed Mom. A pooped Aunt Dorrice agreed. Oblivious to the cooking aromas in every corner of the house, I went to bed much earlier as Miss and dreamed of the next day when I would be Mrs. My satin brocade wedding gown and American Beauty roses would be waiting at the rectory for a 4:00 exchange of vows. It was a sub-zero, snowy, windy day when we left for the church. My sister, Helen, looking beautiful in her blue BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
bridesmaid dress, was cautiously holding on her lap one of the layer cakes with peaked Seven-Minute Frosting. Mom guarded boxed delicacies, while Dad drove and grumbled about the icy roads and blowing snow that made it hard for him to see. “Here we go!” he shouted, as we spun out of control and plowed into a snowdrift. Helen’s face was thrust into the icing on the cake. Having the amazing ability to find amusement when things go horribly wrong, she was hysterical with laughter, while at the same time uttering “yum, yum” sounds and smacking her lips. I sat freezing, whimpering complaints, knowing I would be late for my own wedding. We managed to get out of the snow bank, thanks to the brute strength offered by several good Samaritans. Farmers emerged from their cozy homes, and plowed through the snowdrifts with shovels and pails full of gravel. They dug, pushed and poured gravel close to the tires until Dad got enough traction and the car was moving again. The rectory was warm but my shivering persisted. After changing into my gown and placing the sequined tiara on top of my curls, I was all ready to accept the bouquet of fresh American Beauty blooms specifically ordered by my husband-to-be. Instead, limp, frost-bitten roses were placed in my waiting arms. Now my chill was accompanied by stinging tears. The hovering minister’s wife showed me a well-thumbed Bible that I could carry instead of my bouquet. This brought a new profusion of tears. She pointed her finger at the clock, plumped the roses, Baby’s Breath and Boston fern, and patted my tear-stained cheeks with her linen hankie. At the same time she gave me a gentle jostle towards the door. I was on my way to the church. Clutching my fluttering bridal veil and walking cautiously on high-heeled across the icy pathway, I caught a glimpse of
my waiting groom and a frantic organist turning pages of her hymn book. A musical explosion began when the foyer doors opened. Every year thereafter from 1947 on, at precisely 4:00 on December 31st, with arms entwined with my husband’s and I raised our glasses to the resonance of the now-intimate Bobbie Burns song. “Here’s to you Mumsy,” he always whispered. Thirty-eight years later, after he was gone, I foolishly played Glen Miller’s rendition of Auld Lang Syne again and again, hoping to become immune to the memory pangs this music aroused in me. It didn’t work. Sentimental outbursts continued at the stroke of twelve on New Year’s Eve. New Year’s Eve, 2006: My new husband and I stood motionless in a sea of jovial merry-makers on the dance floor of the Eldorado Hotel. At midnight we sang the song and left the jam-packed dance floor. An on-the-spot resolution was made to pass the torch to someone else who could carry on with the countdown, bells, whistles and earsplitting hilarity at midnight. Auld Lang Syne was put in a box and dropped to the bottom of my emotional sea - a no fishing sign was on it. New Year’s Eve, 2007: Cocktails at 4pm followed by a delicious dinner. Quiet time. We watched some of our DVDs and went to bed at 10:30. We assured ourselves that we celebrated in a sensible way. No dressing up, no dancing, no song. New Year’s Eve, 2008: I’m going fishing! PHYLLIS ROWE met and married Floyd her second husband in the 90s. They moved to Kelowna and love it here! The Society for Learning in Retirement has been a stimulating experience for Phyllis. She has been in a writing class for many years bolstered by classes in Ancient Civilizations, Beyond Science and Genealogy.
One million working age British Columbians don’t meet the minimum level of literacy! You can help… Become a volunteer tutor for 2 to 4 hours/wk. Our tutors come from all backgrounds: academic, business, manufacturing, trades and the legal, health and financial professions. Our general tutors help adults to: • Improve reading, writing & math skills • Prepare for GED and other exams • Learn English as a Second Language
Our trade’s tutors help adults with: • Trades math and terminology • Apprenticeship courses • Challenging trades certificates
LITERACY MATTERS • Low literacy, poverty and exclusion are all part of the same problem. • Quality of life for families, including income levels and employment is directly related to the literacy levels of the parents.
OUR EDUCATIONAL SERVICES ARE FREE TO ALL CLIENTS
Project Literacy Kelowna Society #205-591 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna BC 250-762-2163 email: admin@projectliteracykelowna.org www.projectliteracykelowna.org BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009
PLKS client, Kevin Mardell, winner of the 2008 Literacy BC Cooperators Provincial Learner Achievement Award with his tutor, Jean Lee (left).
53
Inspiration Gone but never Forgotten Submitted by Rikki Frost
I never realized how much having him there really meant until he was gone. And that’s something that really gets to you.
Have you ever lost someone you were really close to? Well, I have. He was like an uncle to me. We were close ever since I was a little girl. I never realized how much having him there really meant until he was gone. And that’s something that really gets to you. His name was Dan Michaud. He was the most kid-friendly adult that I have ever met in my life. I will never forget all the times when I was little and wanted to play Barbie, he would be the first one to come play with me - and we played for hours and it never bothered him once. Although he was quiet, he was such a friendly person - not just with kids, but with everyone. There was one time when we moved and he moved and we didn’t get to see him for a little while. But then he became the new caretaker of McCulloch Lake Resort. My dad was working on developing it and we had a unit we called the “fourplex,” which is where we often stayed on weekends and holidays. We are a huge snowmobiling family and Dan always used to take part in that with us. I remember countless times I had gotten myself stuck somewhere in the snow and he would be the one who would come and get me out. No matter where it was or how bad I was stuck, he never complained once. One day, my dad was going up to meet him about the resort. The night before Dan had driven to a nearby town to visit some friends. Let’s just say he never made it back. 54
He was driving home and fell asleep at the wheel and crashed his car into a ravine. His dog, J.D., was with him and was thrown through the sunroof, but Dan didn’t survive. The reason I submitted this article is because Dan was turning 50 on his next birthday and he will always be close to our hearts. At his memorial service, I wrote a speech to present to his fellow friends and family. Writing it was what I thought would be hard, but standing up there and reading it in front of all those people was even harder. But after I was done, I felt like those were my last words to Dan. I felt as though those were the words that he got to hear before he left us forever. That is a good feeling because he now knows that he can rest in peace and have everyone remember him for all the good he had done and the memories he made. He will always be a part of our family no matter how far away from us he is in heaven. R.I.P. Daniel Michaud, for your love is in our memory and will remain. RIKKI FROST is a 15 year old student at George Elliot Secondary School. She is also the number one fan of the Valley Vixens Dragonboat Team.
BEYOND 50 • WINTER 2009