Edmonton Senior News 2014 March by Kary Bowen

Senior EDMONTON

March 2014

Your Senior Connection in the Capital Region

Volume 24, No. 6

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A lasting voice Local crooner has been serenading showgoers for more than 50 years By Danielle Higdon Bob Jones was born in Edmonton in 1945, in what many Edmontonians refer to as the “old Royal Alex Hospital”. Now 68 years old, Edmonton remains home for Bob, and the city is a little more vibrant for it – as he has been sharing his vocal talents with anyone who will listen for more than fifty years. As a child, Bob says music just naturally resonated with him. He enjoyed the sounds of Patsy Cline and Elvis, and began singing at a young age. In the early 50’s, he was featured on Kiddies on Camera, a television program on CFRN-TV, at the time. “That was the first time I ever sang publicly,” he remembers. “From there I was hooked. I sang wherever I could.” Throughout the 60’s, Bob sang with various friends in makeshift bands. But it wasn’t until his brother’s wedding in 1971 that everything truly changed. “My brother had hired a band for his wedding reception,” Bob says. “I asked if I could sing a couple of songs, and they said sure. After the party, they asked me to sing in the band. Three weeks later, I was hired.” During the day, Bob was working a 9-5 job as a social worker, and he says his weekends and evenings singing with the band were his way of finding release. “It was a great time in my life,” he said. “To deal with such serious issues all week and then be able to sing it all away on the weekends, it was a beautiful balance.” It was during this time that Bob says he experienced one of the proudest moments of his career, when he was invited to open for the Roy Orbison show at the old Edmon-

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ton Gardens. “I was so young and the thrill was so overwhelming,” Roy remembers of that time. “That is a moment I could never forget.” Since then, Bob has performed at a variety of venues in the Edmonton area, including weddings, parties, and local stages. Most recently, he performed on Valentine’s Day to a group of captivated seniors at the Central Lions Recreation Centre. To Bob, age doesn’t mean slowing down. He says he plans to continue performing for as long as possible. “I keep coming back because I am a different person on stage,” he says. “When you sing, with the melody, and the memories, it all triggers something. It has an impact. I can’t imagine giving that up just yet.” And with his velvety crooning voice and lively stage presence, people keep coming back to see him too. “I think people enjoy it so much because they can see that I love what I do,” he says. “I remember how much I loved The Beatles, because you could see the enjoyment they got just from being on stage. That’s what makes them want to see you again.” As long as he is able to bring that enjoyment to his audience, Bob says that he will continue to take the stage. “My ultimate goal over the years has been to be a lasting voice,” he says. “I never wanted to be a quick hit – like the Justin Bieber of today. I always wanted to be like Patsy Cline, Neil Diamond, Elvis, and artists like that. Those people still have people today, who weren’t even born when they were around, that love them. That was always my hope, to be able to cross those generational barriers and just connect with people.” Although Bob says he never quite

I N J U R Y

Bob Jones, seen here performing at the Central Lions Recreation Centre on February 14th, 2014, has been singing in the Edmonton area for over 50 years. Photo by Robert Hawkins

made it to the “big time”, here in Edmonton there are thousands of folks who have seen him perform over the years, and who continue to fill seats to hear him sing the reminiscent melodies of his 1000-plus-song repertoire. “It’s so easy to be discouraged, today more than ever,” he says. “But one of the things I’ve learned is that

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Time to shine! 91-year-old woman proves its never too late to step into the spotlight Creative Age Edmonton Many older adults embrace the notion of aging creatively with gusto. And there could be no better person to demonstrate this than Marg Hembling. A mother of three, grandmother of six and great-grandmother of six, Marg says “Music is my life”. Marg has always been involved in the arts in one way or another; as a piano player at the legion on Armistice day, as the deviser and performer of comedy skits for her curling club, and in choirs (from the Lynne Singers to her current group, The Choralaires). But at the age of 91, a dream she’s had since childhood came true: performing in musical theatre as part of the Creative Age Festival. Marg was thrilled when she first saw the listing for the musical theatre class in the program at Northgate Lions Seniors Centre, but immediately became concerned that her mobility issues would prevent her from taking part. She mentioned her trepidations to Janet Nichol, the instructor of the class, on registration day. Janet immediately put her fears to rest. “She said, ‘Don’t you worry, we’ll carry you if we have to!’”, remembers Marg, laughing. “I thought ‘what’s she going to do with me? I can’t dance.’ I had my cane with me most of the time.” Then Marg thought, ‘I can borrow a wheelchair!’ When she told Janet her idea, Marg says, “Her eyes popped open, and she said, ‘Oh wonderful! Do you mind going fast?’ I laughed and said, ‘no, I don’t mind going fast’”. Marg praises Janet’s patience and resourcefulness, and her ability to help her class believe that everything would be okay, even when they were struggling. “Janet is one heck of a director and teacher, so into it, and so encouraging. She’s having a good time, too.” But while Marg speaks glowingly of the laughter and fellowship of the class, she is equally taken by the professionalism of the experience. “When I was first in Janet’s class, she said, ‘All

right, you have to learn this. This is stage right, and this is stage left, and this stage centre.’ And I thought, ‘Oh my god, nobody’s ever told me that!’ And so I’m sitting there, mesmerized by the fact that I’m actually going to be on stage in a musical!” It was the first time she was given a glimpse behind the scenes of the world of musical theatre, a form that she has loved since childhood. “My father was very musical. He was in the First World War, and he was in a band. So all the band members used to come to the house on New Year’s Day. They all played and sang, and I sang. I’ve been singing my whole life. And my dad took me to every musical show that came to Edmonton.” “When I was in grade two, I learned to play piano on a cardboard keyboard. Eventually my dad bought me a piano. It was a lot of money for him. That piano was so dear to me.” And music certainly has been a constant in Marg’s life. She was always asked to play the piano at social gatherings, and did so even when she didn’t feel up to it, to honour the gift of music that her father had given her. Her musical gifts even influenced her placement for her first temp job as a stenographer. “They sent me to CFRN, because they knew I could play if they went off air.” In her retirement, Marg continues to explore her artistic side, taking risks and reaping the rewards of creative aging. Marg has plans to sign up for the class again this year, and while she acknowledges that musical theatre might not be the right fit for every-

What’s on

Marg Hembling, above, joined a local musical theatre class and plans to continue performing. Submitted

one, she encourages others to find their niche by participating in the arts. Visit Creative Age Edmonton at www.creativeageedmonton.ca to connect with arts activities near you, and follow us on Facebook Facebook.com/CreativeAgeEdmonton and Twitter @ CreativeAgeYEG

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Harper says income splitting ‘good policy’ Bruce Cheadle The Canadian Press Prime Minister Stephen Harper is hinting that the key Conservative campaign plank from the 2011 federal election that earned him a majority may not be pitched overboard after all. Income-splitting for couples with children under 18 was a multibillion-dollar pledge during the last election — a Conservative promise that would kick in as soon as the government balanced the federal budget. But Finance Minister Jim Flaherty began publicly questioning the policy even before his Feb. 11 budget that effectively balanced the books this year and projected a surplus for 2015. “I think income-splitting needs a long, hard analytical look ... to see who it affects and to what degree, because I’m not sure that overall, it benefits our society,” Flaherty told the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce during a televised post-budget interview. Under questioning in the House of Commons, Harper refused to repeat his 2011 income-splitting pledge after budget day. Government sources, meanwhile, spread word that the prime minister and his finance minister were of one mind on the matter.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, pictured here visiting with seniors at the Garrison Green Seniors Community Home in Calgary, thinks that income splitting has been a good move for senior citizens. Submitted photo

However, following a week-long break in the Commons schedule, Harper rose in the House on Tuesday to strike another note. “Income splitting has been a good policy for seniors in Canada, and it will also be a good policy for Canadian families,” the prime minister said in French in response to Liberal goad-

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ing about broken election promises. Harper did not repeat the statement in English. His comment came the same day Flaherty told a Reuters news service interviewer in Australia that he has not decided whether he’ll run again in 2015. The Prime Minister’s Office repeated the emphatic defence of income splitting. “It is a good policy,” Jason Macdonald, Harper’s director of commu-

nications, said in an email. “It has been good for seniors and it would be good for families but, as the prime minister has said, we aren’t in a position to talk about additional tax relief until we have the fiscal room to do so. That means balancing the budget and creating a surplus before we talk about additional relief.” Seniors have been allowed to split pension income to reduce their tax burden since 2007. Studies by respected think-tanks such as the C.D. Howe Institute have found that family incomesplitting would benefit only about 15 per cent of Canadian families and the benefits would disproportionately go to the wealthiest, single-income households. Nonetheless, a number of Conservative MPs — including some high-profile cabinet ministers — appeared to be caught flat-footed when Flaherty questioned the soundness of income-splitting as a policy, and there was some grumbling about how Conservative voters would react to any policy shift. The Conservative party in 2011 made several tax relief promises, including a $2.5-billion pledge to allow two-parent households with children under age 18 to split up to $50,000 in income for tax purposes to the lower-income partner. “This measure will be implemented when the federal budget is balanced within our next full term of office,” stated the party platform.

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The Year of the Horse

Visiting the Muttart Conservatory Display

(top) Emma Brinson, 65, sits near a Buddha statue surrounded by picturesque flowers at the Year of the Horse display at the Muttart Conservatory. (lowermid) Beautiful Bonsai trees were available for viewing, along with various other blossoms. (top right) Vibrant lanterns hang from the ceiling. (lower right) The waterfall display adds tranquility and an outdoor feel to the viewing experience. Photos by Kenna McKinnon

E-mail Letters to the Editor editor@abr.greatwest.ca

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6 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Opinion

Who is being held accountable?

Perusing through a daily check- find themselves in a situation where in on a favourite news website, it is their ability to defend and protect difficult not to notice a pattern in themselves has been compromised. Why do these types of situations the types of stories to be found – one that describes an elderly woman’s continue to make headlines? Not only do we have a responsibilordeal after being left abandoned by a company that was supposed to be ity as a society, but there are people providing her with transportation, who are paid substantial amounts of another regarding a senior’s facility money to be accountable when these types of things occur. that failed to report an That accountability incident of sexual abuse is a part of the position against a resident, and they hold – whether it’s of course, the unresolved the developer of a senior issue regarding the lack citizen’s home, the driver of sprinklers in many seof a shuttle service, or a niors homes. personal care assistant. Continuing to scroll When someone is relying through the headlines, on you to ensure that they it is hard not to wonder “what if our grandparents From the Editor are safe, you are accountable. and parents had treated Danielle Higdon Unfortunately, those us with this same level of accountable do not seem to make regard?”. Imagine for a moment, your par- the headlines as much as the issues ents not bothering to put a fire detec- themselves. It can be discouraging, tor in your home. Imagine them not scrolling through pages of headlines, reporting an incident of sexual abuse seeing so many pressing concerns to the police. Imagine them leaving and so few resolutions. But the only you stranded at school with no an- thing more detrimental to the well swers. Imagine the kind of impact being of all aging individuals than continuous updates with no final sothat would have on any child. The impact is no less detrimental lutions, is to stop being aware of the when it happens to a senior. In fact, issues altogether. Being informed is the first step to it can be even more severe, in its own way, because a senior citizen is some- acting accordingly. Here’s hoping the action comes one who was once able to do all of those things for themselves, but now sooner rather than later.

Letter to the Editor

Don’t let the language stop you

Editor, Just read Kenna McKinnon’s letter on the Opinion page of the February edition of the Edmonton Senior. Sadly, a small percent of western Canadians are reluctant to travel to the province of Quebec, due partly to news coverage of the separatist “Parti Quebecois,” also a small minority in that province. Anyone not experiencing a visit to Quebec is missing out on one of the main reasons that Canada is the greatest country in which to live, and the most envied for having as its official languages, the two most recognized in the world. French spoken in all parts of our country is quite the same as it is everywhere else, even in France. There are a variety of local “patois” in both languages but mostly It is the accent that is different, much as there are different accents in English all over the world. Even in the U.K. there are various English accents just as there are different accents in French in France. The more one travels the more one will realize how both French and English are globally recognized and appreciated. Rene D. Benoiton St. Albert, AB

EDMONTON SENIOR Published By: ALBERTA BUSINESS RESEARCH LTD.

#340 Carleton Drive, St. Albert, Alberta T8N 7L3

No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

Letter to the Editor

No more creative accounting Editor, Once of my concerns for senior’s accommodations are exorbitant costs charged, the accounting practices can always prove these exorbitant costs. It’s called “creative accounting” and any CPA’s worth their salt can become experts in the field. Having eaten at these lodges, I can honestly attest, “gourmet” they definitely are not. Where I rent from (a non-profit organization) I can tell you that ‘seniors abuse’ takes on many forms. I have a 30-plus-year-old stove, an equally old fridge, vandalisms from other tenants that have never been addressed and a promise to paint the unit every five years that when queried about after 15 years (with no sign of a paint job) was changed to “we never paint an occupied unit”. Also, the non-profit organization receives subsidies for power but we still have to pay every month. Then, on top of it all, our rent is raised every year by $25 per month, even though the wear and tear (worn counter tops, lifting linoleum, no weatherizing of windows and doors, or newer appliances that work) is ignored. The water saving devices installed mean “flushing twice” and after several years of malfunctioning washing machines, due to the zealous need to save money by putting the water levels too low to allow actual cleaning of our laundry, we are now having to use cash cards to use new machines. Raising rent without actually maintaining the units is the act of greed and definitely an abuse. Calling it non-profit is simply a lie. This is just one aspect of abuse; the same greed drives the landlords to allow mentally ill renters whose behavior should have them evicted. But the drive to keep property fully occupied comes first. If counseling between tenants becomes necessary there is no qualified person to do anything helpful; certainly no one considered professional. I advocate the abolishment of profit-making lodges which would even the abusers ground considerably; they are an open invitation to profit-seeking so-called “non-profit” profiteers. These Gross profiteers paint themselves out to be a great boon to the Senior Community while robbing them of the basic necessities and bullying them while doing it. That’s been my experience. Sincerely, H. A. Brown Edmonton

Publisher: Fisal Asiff Editor: Danielle Higdon editor@abr.greatwest.ca Graphic Design: Noreen Hansen Kary Bowen

Advertising Consultants: Greg Braun: gbraun@abr.greatwest.ca Judie Matthys: jmatthys@abr.greatwest.ca Nicole Kent: nkent@abr.greatwest.ca Miranda Skelton: mskelton@airdrie.greatwest.ca

Phone: 780-470-5602 • Fax: 780-460-8220 • Toll Free: 1-866-425-3722 • E-mail: senior@abr.greatwest.ca

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 7

New book travels down memory lane By Terri Schlichenmeyer Whenever you get together with old friends, no matter what the reason – there is always the conversation beginning with “remember when…”. Remember piling in the station wagon, scrambling for a good seat in the back? And when your sister chased that bully away? He was bigger than she, but twice as scared. And remember cruising down Washington Avenue in a convertible, top-down? Ah, those were the days: fun then, fun to recall now. And when you read “The Baby Boom” by P.J. O’Rourke, you’ll remember even more of them. To write about the baby boom is to tackle a big project: there are more than 75 million of us, born over the course of nearly twenty years. There are times, in fact, when “the oldest Baby Boomers are sometimes the parents – usually via an “oopsie!” – of the youngest Baby Boomers.” Basically, though, Baby Boomers can be sorted, much like high school, into seniors (at the beginning of the Boom); juniors (born in the early 50’s); sophomores (late 50’s) and freshmen (born at Boom’s end). This book, written by a “senior”, manages to hold memories for all of these categories. Memories like getting a new TV, though the people on television were generally members of the “Silent Generation,” born between “The Baby Boom” by P.J. O’Rourke, c.2014, Atlantic Monthly Press, our parents and us. Later, they’d $25.00 / $27.50 Canada, 272 pages. be the “anyone over 30” we weren’t sarcastically profane humor isn’t missing, either. supposed to trust. Overall, that will appeal to hip first-time readers When we went anywhere in our parents’ bigwithout disappointing long-time fans. finned cars, we rode in the front seat, often Better than an Ed Sullivan marathon; more standing up. Houses had one phone, connected enjoyable than Beach Boys Radio Weekend; to the wall, but we rarely used it because yelling more fun than cleaning out your parents’ attic, across several yards was the preferred neighborthis book is a Boomer’s delight. If your bags are hood method of communication. People wrote packed for a trip down Memory Lane, The Baby letters, too, or they just “dropped over,” no apBoom is a book you’ll want to remember to take pointment necessary. with you. Kids played outside a lot then, and parents liked it that way. Games were fair, it didn’t matter who won, and “we ran wild – in a rather tame A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC manner.” We learned the Facts of Life (and didn’t want to believe it), we spied on one another, blew Affordable, either pre-planning or at your time of need, things up, had crushes, were embarrassed by our First Memorial offers reasonable costs on parents, and were told that we could “be or do both cremation and burial. anything.” It was, says O’Rourke, a “good and happy place” to grow up. Though it does sometimes descend into curmudgeon territory and can seem somewhat growly, The Baby Boom really is quite a pleasure. Despite that author P.J. O’Rourke was an early Boomer (a “senior”), there’s plenty of Universal Boomer Truths here, and lots of nostalgia for anyone born between 1946 and 1964. O’Rourke (largely) ignores his usual topics in this book, in10541 - 81 Ave (in Old Strathcona) • 780-433-7335 stead bringing back the kinds of memories that Riverview Chapel – Fort Saskatchewan • 780-998-9898 occur when family and friends gather – though www.firstmemorialfuneral.com politics peek into the latter half of the book, and

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8 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Get Your MONEY Back!

If an impairment to your health affects your mobility, you’re not alone.

for five years, you’re eligible for a refund on lmost a third of Canadians over taxes you’ve paid over the last five years. the age of 65, and two-thirds of Canadians over the age of 75, To qualify, your condition must be certified have trouble walking around a by a doctor. Grants International has a city block. doctor on staff who will discuss your conWhat you may not dition and pass along know, however, is that a summary that you an impairment may can take to your own enable you to recovfamily doctor for cerer a portion of the tification. This makes income tax that you’ve the process easier paid every year over for doctors who are the last 10 years, up not familiar with the to $5,000 a year. application. Every year, the gov“Grants International ernment pays out hundid all the paperwork,” dreds of millions of says Heidi Kempin of dollars in tax credits Calgary, who received to people with impaira refund after conments. Yet thousands tacting Grants Interof Canadians aren’t national. “All I had to even aware that they do was give them the qualify for the money. information.” “It’s a shame that “DO THIS CORRECTLY THE Not only have Canaone can go for so dians like Heidi Kemlong without know- FIRST TIME, AND YOU’LL pin received a refund ing there’s help just GET THE MONEY FOR THE from income taxes a call away,” says REST OF YOUR LIFE. ” paid in past years, Andrew Burns of Victhey also continue to – Darren Earn, President, toria, who collected a receive the refund in Grants International refund with the help of the future, for as long Grants International. as their health remains impaired. “We work with the government every day,” “Do this correctly the first time,” says Darsays Darren Earn, president of Grants Interren Earn, “and you’ll get the money for the national, “to help clients access the refunds rest of your life, if you qualify.” that can make a difference in their life.” For more information, contact Grants InterThe refund is calculated according to the national today at 1-888-999-2221. taxes paid as far back as 10 years. For example, if your health has been impaired - By Bruce McDougall

DO YOU

QUALIFY? To be eligible for a Health Impairment Refund, you must meet all three of the following conditions:

Your mobility impairment must either have lasted or be expected to last for a continuous perious of at least 12 months.

Your mobility impairment must be severe, and it must restrict you all of the time.

Your severe and prolonged impairment must be certified by a qualified practitioner, like your family doctor.

In addition to a doctor’s verification, you also need to have paid income taxes for the last three years.

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 9

Health

A leisure lifestyle alleviates stress By Terry Jorden When Nicole Zaborowski first started working 20 years ago as a recreation coordinator for seniors, she remembers organizing bingo, crossword puzzles, afternoon teas, exercise classes and the occasional visit from a children`s choir. “Back then, that was our focus -just keep them busy,” said Nicole, now the director of recreation for Revera`s Churchill Retirement Community, a high rise in downtown Edmonton. Today, while many seniors still enjoy those activities, there is a growing trend towards activities that do more than just entertain or pass the time but instead enrich lives and enhance wellness. Just outside Nicole`s office, four residents are gathered around a table for their weekly Spanish class. Earlier that morning there was a meditation class. In the afternoon, after the crib tournament, the book club will meet to discuss Paula Coehlo`s 2008 bestseller The Pilgrimage. On other days you can learn German, study opera or take a yoga class. “All I can say is that today our

residents want to learn, while in the past they were satisfied in engaging in activities they already knew,” said Nicole. The reasons for the change are many and varied. Most agree, it has to do with the changing face of the seniors’ population. First, there is no such thing as the typical senior. Secondly, we are living long and that means there are at least two different generations within the seniors’ population. Ages now range from 65 to beyond 100. Some are Baby Boomers in their late 60s, more educated, travelled and affluent than older seniors. Older seniors, those in their 70s and 80s, became adults in the 1950s and 60s, listening to Elvis and Hank Williams and influenced by the threat of the Cold War. Seniors 90 and older grew up in the depression and lived through WWII, and are more likely to accept more traditional activities. “Many of our residents want to be continually intellectually stimulated,” said Nicole noting that one of her residents, a retired university professor, is teaching a course to

Touchmark’s Life Enrichment and Wellness Director Brenda Edmonds (left) with resident Joyce Lacusta. Submitted by Terry Jorden

residents on the history of Canada’s Aboriginal people. Another factor driving the change in recreational programming is staff

like Terra Kipps, a recent University of Alberta graduate with a degree in Human Ecology. See LEISURE, page 12

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10 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Snooze and you lose! By John Tidridge Do you get enough sleep? Do you enjoy a “power nap” (whether you intend to or not)? Are you married and sleep alone because of trouble resting at night? These may seem like minor concerns, but the impacts can be major! Potentially dangerous, but entirely preventable, falling asleep at the wheel and being involved in an accident is a serious possibility. It could lead to your last accident or sleep, as we know it. A Canada Safety Report, dated May 2008, mentions a mother of 3, driving her vehicle when an oncoming vehicle crossed the center lane, striking hers. The impact killed the women and two of her children and left the remaining daughter badly injured. It was later determined the driver of the other vehicle had been a student who had not slept for 24 hours prior to driving. ‘The cause of this tragic collision did not involve drugs or alcohol, but rather lack of sleep. Driving while fatigued is comparable to driving drunk, only there is not the same social stigma attached’. According to the Canadian Council of Motor

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Transport Administrators fatigue is a factor in up to 21 per cent of motor vehicle collisions, resulting in about 400 deaths and 2,100 serious injuries every year. At 21 per cent, fatigue would rank as the third highest measurable cause of collisions behind alcohol impairment and speed-aggressive driving. An attempt to confirm these statistics has been unsuccessful at this point, but local Edmonton police, when contacted, indicated that 21% would be considered high. Both the city and the RCMP indicated falling asleep is not a ‘tracked accident cause’. Sgt. Ted Hrebien, Major Collision Investigation Section, of Edmonton Police service said, “We don’t see too many situations where we can say fatigue was the primary cause. In all my years in Traffic, falling asleep has never been the subject of a collision. For those situations where a vehicle veers off the roadway and collides with a pole, tree or rolls over in the ditch, alcohol impairment and speed are the primary causes.” But beware, in spite of the uncertainty of the statistics even one fatal accident is one too many, particularly if it’s your own. Whether statistics have been kept, and regardless of whether legislation might be enacted to class falling asleep at the wheel as a criminal offence or not, anyone who knowingly gets behind the wheel when they are aware they are over-tired should consider the consequences of their actions. The signs of fatigue are easy to recognize: loss of concentration, drowsiness, yawning, slow reactions, sore or tired eyes, boredom, irritability, missing road signs, drifting out of your lane, and nodding off. Potential passengers should check out the driv-

er before setting off, just as you would for impairment by alcohol. Better an angry spouse than a deceased one. From the statistics, whether high or not, the picture is clear that the dangers of ‘driving while tired’ are simply not resonating with the driving public. Like driving while impaired by alcohol there are measures that can be taken to avoid driving while sleepy. In the alcohol scenario there is the designated driver and if you are alone, don’t drink if you are going to drive. Same process could apply to sleepiness…if you are feeling sleepy, get someone else to drive, if you are alone, don’t drive. Consider the following: ‘Drive only when rested, keep your mind alert, find a safe place to stop if you feel drowsy, avoid sugary and fatty foods and drinks, instead drink water and eat high-protein snacks, drive defensively’. The term “defensive driving” means many things to many people, one defensive driving strategy is to work out what is or might happen on the road ahead and around you. Speak to yourself, what is that car going to do, or will that pedestrian dart across the street, etc. Most people if pressed will say they have driven ‘tired or sleepy’. Many think that just because they haven’t been drinking, they are okay to drive. But as stated above the evidence shows that an over-tired driver can be as lethal as an impaired one. Drivers of all ages are urged to consider the safety of others, and if necessary that of their own. There is nothing to say seniors get more tired more easily than young people, or is there… only you can be the judge of that! Now, to get a good night’s sleep!

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10 Diet Tips No Senior Should Skip! Edmonton Senior News Staff As we get older, eating right becomes ever more imperative. Our bodies tend not to be as forgiving of overindulgence and lazy eating; they expect to be well maintained and will punish us if they are not. A proper diet for seniors promotes mental alertness, higher energy, better recuperation from illness or surgery, and avoidance of health problems like osteoporosis and constipation. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy diet as an older person: 1. Understand that as you age, your metabolism slows, therefore all else being equal, you need fewer calories. Depending on activity level, a man over 50 should consume 2,000 to 2,800 calories, while a woman over 50 should consume 1,600 to 2,000 calories. 2. Get plenty of fiber in your diet. This reduces the risk of constipation and certain chronic diseases. Good sources of fiber include fresh fruits and vegetables including beans, and whole grains. 3. Reduce bad fats like butter, fried foods, full fat dairy, and fatty meats. Eat good fats that promote the good kind of cholesterol, like avocados, fatty fish, nuts and seeds, and olive oil. 4. Older people are especially at risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures if they fall, so it’s important to get plenty of calcium in your diet for strong bones. Good sources of calcium include almonds, broccoli,

cheese, kale, milk, tofu, and yogurt. 5. Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. As we get older, we do not regulate fluid levels as well, and our sense of thirst can be dulled. 6. An older body does not absorb certain nutrients as well, such as vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and folic acid. Be sure to get plenty of these in your diet, or take vitamin supplements. 7. Watch your salt intake. Salt is especially bad for those prone to high blood pressure. 8. Be aware of factors that can alter a person’s diet for the worse, and deal with them. Dental problems can affect the taste of food. Medications can affect the taste of food. Limited mobility can affect a person’s ability to shop for the food they need. Poverty can prevent a person from being able to buy the food they need. Alzheimer’s can leave a person confused as to what they should be eating, what they’ve eaten so far today, etc. 9. Don’t be too proud to ask for help if you’re having problems like these. Meals on Wheels, for instance, is a wonderful program for getting nutritious food to shut-in seniors. 10. Consult your doctor for nutrition tips specific to you and your condition. People are living longer than ever. Why not aim for 100 or more? With the proper diet, you’ll increase your chances of getting there.

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leisure From Page 9 Terra says seniors are well aware of the old stereotype or stigma of the forgetful, frail senior telling stories about the good old days. “Seniors are aware of the stigma and, frankly, they want to stick it to the stigma,” she said. Brenda Edmonds, the Life Enrichment and Wellness Director at Touchmark, an upscale private residence for about 200 seniors, is seeing similar changes. She started her recreational career in 1990 in a hospital day program where the main purpose of the activities was to give care givers a break and to provide some basic stimulation to long term care patients. Most recreation coordinators see significant differences in programming in different settings. In hospitals or long term care facilities, activities re-

main traditional, low cost, and more recreational than educational, sometimes with a therapeutic goal. In retirement developments like Touchmark, programming is changing to meet the growing expectations of residents. In community seniors centres programming varies depending on the community, budgets, and key volunteers. At Touchmark, Brenda Edmonds says her monthly recreation schedule includes courses on how to use computers, pet therapy, drama club, glee club, live music, trips to the casino, a session on how to entertain your brain and the long running Brenda Edmonds Show, a talk show in front of a audience of residents featuring interviews with politicians, authors, athletes and others. “I don`t program for seniors,” said Brenda. “I program for everyone.”

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Down the hall, the Fireside Lounge is literally buzzing with excitement, as a group of residents watch for the first time a professionally produced, high definition video featuring several residents recording their personal stories and reminiscences. “I was part of this program,” said resident Wendy Rempel to the other residents. “For Christmas I gave my sons this DVD. They were thrilled. They heard me tell stories they had never heard before. They said this was the most precious gift I have ever given them.” Donna Durand, the executive director of the Alberta Council on Aging, agrees that recreation activities for seniors has changed significantly in the past 20 years. She says activities like lawn bowling, darts, social dancing and card playing are declining while different activities, in part influenced by the internet, are growing in popularity. “Seniors now are exposed to world philosophy, music, food, travel, whereas in the past this was less common,” said Durand. “A new form of travel and recreation that has emerged in the past 15 years is eco travel and medical service volunteerism.” She said she expects to see an increase in the use of personal trainers, travel companions and lifestyle counselors.

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 13

Dual master bedrooms rising trend for baby boomers.............14 Fixes for wall colour disasters.15 Tips for helping a senior move.......16

Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day brunch................. 17 How to have a successful garage sale........19

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14 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

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Dual master bedrooms rising trend for baby boomers Edmonton Senior News Staff What began as an answer to buyers living alternative lifestyles has rapidly become a desired feature for maturing baby boomers buying a new home. Dual master bedrooms are becoming an attractive idea for couples whose children have long since left the nest. There are a number of reasons for this trend, not the least of which is getting a good night’s sleep. One reason for wanting dual master bedrooms is the need to care for elderly parents. As boomers age, so do their parents. Having a second master suite for elderly family members gives both the dependent relatives and their caregivers much needed privacy and a degree of independence. For married couples, sleeping together can sometimes become troublesome in the later years. For light sleepers, their partners’ nocturnal visits to the bathroom can rouse them from sleep, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Of course, there’s the age-old problem of one partner snoring, while the other lies awake thinking of ways to clog up her loved one’s nostrils without

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causing suffocation. Having another comfortable bedroom to escape to may be the answer to the prayers of the sleep deprived. But nightly disturbances are not the only reason for wanting dual master bedrooms. For boomers leaving the workforce, dual master suites gives each partner a retreat, a place that needn’t be shared with anyone else. After years of sharing space, including bathrooms, with spouses, children, and overnight guests, having a space of one’s own can be a dream come true, a reward for years of sacrifice and tight living quarters. Retirement, though, is not necessarily quiet days spent before a television in one’s own bedroom. As boomers enter their retirement years, they’re drawn to active living communities. As is often the case with couples, interests may be divergent. As couples come and go throughout the day and evening, partners can shower, change or nap without interfering with their spouses’ schedule. If all this sounds like couples are living separate lives, and the romance is gone, think again. See BEDROOMS, Page 16

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 15

Fixes for wall colour disasters Edmonton Senior News Staff Wall colour disasters happen to even the most seasoned interior decorator. Paint chips can be deceptive, and once on the wall, a dream colour can quickly turn into a home improvement nightmare. Luckily, the wrong wall colour does not have to be a lasting problem. The following are fixes for wall colour disasters: Give Colour a Chance In the event the room has been completely painted, it may be tempting to run straight back to the paint store and start again, but a trial run of the new colour may be in order. Often, a negative reaction to a new paint colour is not dislike so much as shock, particularly if the change is dramatic. By replacing the switch and outlet covers, rehanging art, and returning the room to a functional state, the painter can get a better sense of whether the colour works or doesn’t work in the environment. Once the shock of the change subsides, the painter may just come to view his or her colour disaster as a decorating happily ever after. Try a Faux Finish Another fix for the less-than-fabulous painted room is a faux finish. By treating the undesired paint colour as a base, the painter can use paint or glaze to change the overall style of the walls. Any number of looks can be accomplished

with faux finishes. For example, with paint and stencils, painted walls can be given the look of wallpaper, or layering glaze over the base colour with sponges can create an Old World look. A paint technique using a comb and brush can give walls the rich look of linen. A perusal of the faux finish section of a craft or home improvement store can offer inLuckily, the spiration, or websites like wrong wall HGTV and DIY offer ideas colour does and detailed how-to videos. not have to Modify the Paint Colour be a lasting If the painter realizes a problem. paint colour is wrong early in a project, there may still be time to correct the problem. Unfortunately, unless an error was made in the mixing process, most hardware and home improvement stores do not accept custom paint returns; however, many paint stores are willing to alter the colour to a more pleasing hue. While magenta cannot be made over into ivory, slight changes can be made to the existing paint, which may be just enough to make the colour spot-on. Often, the store will make these adjustments at no additional charge. Start Again The last resort resolution in a wall colour disaster is to go back to the drawing board. Now that a paint mistake has been made, it should be used as an opportunity to see where changes need to be made. Was the colour too light? Too dark? Too red? The new paint colour should

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go right where the disaster paint colour went wrong. Painters needing a little guidance in selecting a new colour can follow expert tips like the ones found here. Before investing in a gallon or more of the new paint, a sample should be applied to the wall. By observing the test area of the wall at different points of the day as the light changes, the painter can determine whether or not the colour will work. Ideally, multiple tests conducted side-by-side to allow for comparison. Getting a wall colour wrong can be discouraging, but the crisis is only temporary. With a little patience and creativity, a wall colour disaster can be turned into a decorating success.

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Tips for helping a senior move Edmonton Senior News Staff There are two different types of senior moves to consider. One is voluntary, and may involve relocating to be closer to children, to a more healthful climate, or to a place requiring less upkeep. The other involves a necessary move to a nursing home, assisted living facility, or child’s home. Voluntary moves are by far the easier type, both for the senior and for helpers. Generally, if a senior citizen has made the decision to move for any of the reasons listed above, he or she will either be looking forward to relocating or will at least be resigned to it. Seniors in this position usually have most or all of their faculties and may or may not want your help. Beware of treating the elderly like children and taking away their right to do things their own way. Assuming you avoid bossy, controlling behavior, most seniors will welcome help with locating a new home, especially if they no longer drive and are not computer savvy. They can also use help with sorting through possessions, holding a garage sale or transporting items to charity, and ultimately packing what’s left. Help with cleaning and making necessary repairs prior to marketing the home may be especially welcome. Its best to ask them what help they want or need instead of just jumping in. Once the actual move is over, they may need help cleaning and putting things away, mapping public transportation routes, and finding a good doctor and dentist. Involuntary moves can be extremely painful. In most places you will need a power of attorney or a court order to relocate a senior who can no longer care for him- or herself, but is unwilling to move. Before taking such a step, be sure to consider the possibility of a livein caregiver. While generally more expensive, such an option is ideal for those who are very attached to their homes and don’t mind having another individual living with them. If live-in care is not possible, there are some strategies that will make the relocating easier. Most seniors dislike giving up their independence and may be upset if their own chil-

dren can’t take them in and may not wish to be a burden on them even if they can. If the senior is still capable of good decision making, he or she should have as much input as possible into the choice of living arrangements. If a nursing home or assisted living facility is the only option, investigate the facility to make sure there are no outstanding complaints against it. Try to match the place with the senior’s interests and needs. Social butterflies will want a place with lots of opportunities for interaction with others, and animal lovers will be much happier in a place that allows pets. Those who love their privacy will be happiest in an individual apartment if this is still an option, or at least in a single room. Frequent visits from friends and family are especially important during the first few months, when the adjustment process is taking place. In the second situation, de-cluttering and selling the old home may fall largely on the helpers. Again, a power of attorney will probably be necessary. Be sure that any incapacitation is permanent before disposing of someone else’s home! If you live far away, a professional estate sale is the easiest way to dispose of the contents in one easy step, and a professional Realtor will probably be a necessity. Be sure to hang on to as many items that hold personal meaning as possible. The senior will be happier if you can bring some of his or her own furnishings to the new home, and mount a large bulletin board full of family photos. Avoid bringing expensive antiques or jewelry since these may disappear. Accentuate the positive aspects of the move, such as freedom from home maintenance chores and opportunities for social interaction. Monitor the senior for signs of depression, even when the move is voluntary. In some cases another move may be necessary if things are not working out. Try to give a situation several months before making this decision, because frequent relocations are extremely hard on the elderly. The goal is to create a situation in which the senior is happy, and friends and family have peace of mind.

BEDROOMS The allure of visiting one’s love interest in her boudoir can be an aphrodisiac; and visiting a gentleman’s quarters can feel a bit naughty, adding a bit of spark to the passion. On the more practical side, dual master suites are certain to add market value to a home. Particularly in communities catering to the over-55 market, housing need not be the traditional home for the nuclear family. Retirees need

not be concerned with meeting the needs of children. Rather, they want their own needs met, and they want floor plans that accommodate their new active lifestyle. Dual master bedrooms are versatile and practical. They provide solutions to problematic sleeping arrangements and offer alternative living arrangements for changing lifestyles.

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 17

Valentine’s Day brunch

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Ray and Pat Guenette celebrated their 5th wedding anniversary at the Valentine’s Day Brunch. Photo submitted by WESAC

By WESAC Talk about a room rampant with red! The energy in the decorated cafeteria at the West Edmonton Seniors Activity Center (WESAC) on February 14 was high as most attendees were dressed to match the occasion in some form of red clothing or adornment. The fun-filled two-hour event started with a welcome from Presi-

dent Ken Jolin. He turned the mike over to guest speaker Dr. Raj Sharma who promptly surprised everyone with a short pep talk on the need to increase the current population in Canada as it was falling behind. According to Dr. Sharma the current birth rate is not enough to replace our decreasing population. See VALENTINE’S DAY, Page 18

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18 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

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From Page 17 He encouraged the audience to “make hay” if they could or get their kids to do so to catch up! The audience responded with laughter and several comebacks. Sharma closed his speech by thanking the center for inviting him and congratulating the staff for their hard work in making this event so successful. Ken Jolin gave a brief history of the origin of the romantic side of St. Valentines Day, saying that it began in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer from the High middle ages when the tradition of courtly love flourished. Later on in England, the occasion evolved into an event in which lovers expressed their love by offering flowers and confectionaries and sending greeting cards, known as valentines to each other. Therefore, he continued, “in celebration of this event, we’re going to get you to do make your own valentines after breakfast”. Volunteer pancake flipper Dr. Ken Wiancko was then asked to say grace before the food

was served. He commented, “if the pancakes are good, then I made them. If not, then I had nothing to do with it”. After breakfast, special event coordinator Louise Suru instructed everyone to fill out a valentine that was handed to them and address it to someone in the room or make it anonymous with an appropriate comment. She reminded everyone that this was Random Acts of Kindness week. Each person received a valentine to remind them they are special. Other events were being celebrated at the brunch. Ken Jolin pointed out that WESAC members Pat and Ray Guenette were happily celebrating their 5th anniversary, and member Laurie Baxter’s grandson Dusty Koreck was taking part in the ski jumping event at the 2014 Olympics. At the end ten prizes ranging from gourmet food baskets to a cuddly red stuffed dog were handed out to lucky ticket holders. However, even if you did not get a prize, you still went home with a rosy glow in your heart from all the good food, fun and companionship--a great way to enjoy this holiday.

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How to have a successful garage sale Edmonton Senior News Staff With the summer season upon us, these tips will make your sale a “must-stop”! Garage sales are an effective way to de-clutter your home, make some extra spending cash, get to know your neighbors better, or even raise money for a cause. To have a successful garage sale, you must put a lot of effort into the planning stage. Timing is everything. Find out if Realtors are having open houses in your neighborhood on a particular weekend. Though you may advertise in the paper and put up signs directing drivers to your garage sale, it is helpful to have plenty of drive-by traffic. Watch the weather reports and make sure there are no forecasts for inclement weather. What other events are going on in the community that could draw people to your sale or away from it? Super Bowl weekend may or may not be a good time. The guys will probably be glued to the set, but the ladies may be up for a garage sale. You get the idea. If you find that you don’t have enough items, call your friends, neighbors, and relatives to see if they would like to participate. The more items you have, the more interesting the garage sale looks to passersby. Make sure everyone has their items labeled clearly and have a system for keeping each person’s earnings separate. Having more than one person sit during the sale is helpful also and is, frankly, safer. One person should tend the moneybox while another person is helping the buyers. Never let people enter your home for any reason unless

Trevor Hotz SENIOR REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST ...bringing you home!

you know them very well. Be in attendance of each customer without hovering. Once you have your items together, you must price them and arrange them on tables, hanging racks, or on a drop cloth. Price them the night before and arrange them very early in the morning. Avid garage-sale goers like to get a jump-start on everyone else, so expect them to arrive early. Put an ad in the paper and make sure to give the address. If you have large items such as used appliances or furniture, you might also wish to give a phone number. Make some attractive signs that can be seen easily. Put them in strategic locations such as near a major thoroughfare. Make sure there are no regulations against your posting this signage. In addition, call or e mail your friends and family and ask them to put out the word. Be sure to post a sign in front of your home so people driving by don’t think you are moving or just cleaning out your garage. Helium balloons are a nice touch and draw attention to your sign. Your garage sale should be up and running by 7 AM. Your negotiating powers will be stronger in the early morning. Buyers know they can get a better deal as the day progresses. So try to sell the bulk of your items in the morning. Be flexible. The sticker price should not reflect your bottom line since all skilled garage sales shoppers will want to haggle with you a bit. It’s all part of the fun. You have to let them think they are getting the best of you. Take only cash. Don’t hold items for anyone longer than an hour or two. Have plenty of change for people: ones, fives, a few tens, and loose change.

Keep your cell phone handy for emergencies. Keep your eye on the moneybox. And if you start to amass a lot of money, take some of it inside and put it in a safe place. Keep your house locked up, too. In these days, one must take all precautions. Do you have enough parking spots for people? If not, who do you know who does? Adequate parking is a must for a really good garage sale. Finally, call the Salvation Army or some other group to pick up the items that don’t sell. If you have inventoried them and assessed their worth, you may be able to use this donation as a tax deduction. Have them arrive at the closing of your sale. You won’t want to pack up everything and haul it back in your house!

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EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 21

Coffee

Break

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Jokes: One day during the lunch shift at a local restaurant, a chef watched as an elderly couple ate. It seemed as if the man was the only one eating - first his appetizer, then his main, and then finally his dessert. All the while with his wife just looking on, not touching her food. Confused, the chef approached the woman and asked if there was anything he could get for her. “No thank you,” came her answer, “it’s his turn to wear the teeth.” An elderly gentleman visits the doctor complaining that his wife can barely hear. The doctor suggests a test to find out the extent of the problem. “Stand far behind her and ask her a question, and then slowly move up and see how far away you are when she first responds.” The old man, excited to finally be working on a solution for the problem, runs home and sees his wife preparing supper. “Honey” he asks standing around 20 feet away “What’s for supper?” After receiving no response he tries it again 15 feet away, and again no response. He repeats again at 10 feet away and, as before, no response. Finally he is 5 feet away “Honey, what’s for supper?” She replies “For the fourth time it’s lasagna!”

Craft Word Search ACRYLIC ADHESIVE APPLIQUE CARDSTOCK CHALK COLLAGE CRAYONS DECOUPAGE DIMENSIONAL EASEL EMBOSSING EYELET FABRIC FLOSS GLOSSY GLUE GROMMET LAMINATE

MASKING MATTE MODEL PAINT PARCHMENT PASTELS PEN PENCILS POSTERBOARD QUILTING RELIEF SMUDGE STAMP STENCIL TAPE TRACE WOODEN YARN

CLUES ACROSS 1. Plural of eyrir 6. Concord 12. Photographer 16. Atomic #18 17. Tobacco cylinder 18. Of I 19. 1/10 meter (abbr.) 20. In the year of Our Lord 21. Belittle 22. 1/2 of an em 23. Equally 24. Cornmeal mush (British) 26. Desires 28. Of sound mind 30. 1st moon man’s initials 31. Public broadcasting 32. Bodily cavity 34. Insecticide 35. County in China 37. Platforms 39. Frost 40. Crucifix 41. Bodily faculties 43. Seladang 44. Denotes three 45. Imbibe slowly 47. What’s left 48. Liberal degree 50. Competition 52. Confederate 54. 7th Hindu month 56. Senator Frankin 57. “Crying” singer’s initials 59. Taro root dish 60. Bahrain dinar 61. Sun god 62. 39th state 63. In a harmful way 66. Immunoglobulin (abbr.) 67. Differences 70. Moves slowly 71. Snarl, growl (var. sp.)

CLUES DOWN 1. Aviator 2. Boutros’ group 3. Go over 4. Be among 5. Cloth scrap 6. Clerks 7. Vacuum tube 8. Actress Blanchett 9. Removes the lid 10. Atomic #45 11. Peremptorily 12. Dishonorable men 13. Spanish appetizers 14. Algerian gulf & port 15. Sets again 25. About Freemason 26. One point N of due W 27. Not happy 29. Accumulates on the surface 31. Peels an apple 33. Diamond weight unit 36. Possesses 38. Note 39. About heraldry 41. Hair filament 42. Title of respect 43. Hair product 46. Colas 47. Capital of Huila, Colombia 49. More diaphanous 51. Eliminate 53. Change to a vapor 54. Ancient temple sanctums 55. Pesters 58. Off-Broadway award 60. Light Russian pancake 64. Baseball official 65. Work unit 68. Jr.’s father 69. Atomic #77

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22 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Coffee

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Leisure

Thorogood to play for 40th Anniversary Tour

Quotes: If I had known how wonderful it would be to have grandchildren, I’d have had them first. - Lois Wyse

We grow neither better nor worse as we get older, but more like ourselves. - May Lamberton Becker

Sudoku Solutions on page 30

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GT & The Destroyers’ Canadian tour dates are as follows: 4/30/14 CN Center Prince George, BC 5/1/14 Interior Savings Centre Kamloops, BC 5/2/14 Hard Rock Casino Vancouver Coquitlam, BC 5/3/14 Hard Rock Casino Vancouver Coquitlam, BC 5/5/14 Northern Alberta Jubilee Aud. Edmonton, Alberta 5/6/14 Southern Alberta Jubilee Aud. Calgary, Alberta 5/7/14 Esplanade Arts & Heritage Ctr. Medicine Hat, Alberta 5/8/14 TCU Place Saskatoon, SK 5/9/14 Casino Regina Show Lounge Regina, Saskatchewan 5/10/14 Burton Cummings Theatre Winnipeg, Manitoba 5/12/14 Sudbury Arena Sudbury, Ontario 5/13/14 The Centre In The Square Kitchener, Ontario 5/14/14 Hamilton Place Hamilton, Ontario 5/15/14 Massey Hall Toronto, Ontario 5/16/14 National Arts Centre Ottawa, Ontario 5/17/14 Metropolis Montreal, Quebec 5/20/14 Theatre Capitole Quebec City, Quebec 5/22/14 Aitken Centre Fredericton, NB 5/23/14 Casino New Brunswick Moncton, NB 5/24/14 Halifax Metro Centre Halifax, NS

PRNewswire George Thorogood & The Destroyers will be kicking off their 40th Anniversary with a 2014 national U.S. and Canadian tour starting February 27. The first leg of the tour will take off in the U.S. from February 27-March 22, then hit Canada from April 30-May 24, and then back to the U.S.

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for dates from June 19-July 20. Additional shows will be announced for the duration of the celebratory year. Touring in relation to their Universal Music Enterprises George Thorogood & The Destroyers ICON album and Eagle Rock Entertainment’s live DVD titled Live At Montreux, Thorogood and his band will give audiences the opportunity to hear their greatest hits live such as “Bad To The Bone,” “I Drink Alone,” “Who Do You Love,” “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer,” and many more. Says fellow guitar legend Slash, “George Thorogood’s genuine style and attitude continue to inspire me as he and The Destroyers rock on into their 40th year. He has been a hero of mine since I first heard his music in the 70’s, and is one of the baddest rock ‘n’ roll songwriters/electric slide guitar players ever.” Echoes Steve Miller, “For 40 years, I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of sharing the stage with George many times, and what started as admiration has grown into a deep love and respect for the man, his music, his band, and his spirit. He is truly an original.” George Thorogood and his longtime band The Destroyers – whose current lineup includes: Jeff Simon (drums, percussion), Bill Blough (bass guitar), Jim Suhler (rhythm guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), have released 16 studio albums, with two Platinum albums and six Gold albums. Taking the stage for the first time on December 1, 1973, the band has established themselves as a mega successful powerhouse rock group with bar roots, unchained attitude, and a love of its country and blues history. The ICON album includes the following songs: “Bad To The Bone,” “I Drink Alone,” “Willie And The Hand Jive,” “Gear Jammer,” “If You Don’t Start Drinkin’ (I’m Gonna Leave),” “Who Do You Love? (Live),” “Treat Her Right,” “I’m A Steady Rollin’ Man,” “One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer (Live),” “Get A Haircut” and “Do The Do.” For more information on the band visit www. georgethorogood.com.

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 23

Seniors Games a golden experience for all By John Tidridge Following up on the story that appeared in our February issue that highlighted the Seniors Care Games, on February 3, 2014, opening ceremonies were celebrated for the start of the games across the country. The Seniors Games are part of the commitment that All Seniors Care Living Centres have made to provide seniors with innovative ways to develop and maintain an active lifestyle at their 20 retirement communities This meant in Edmonton three ceremonies were occurring in three separate facilities. Councillor Mike Nickel attended on behalf of the city: Members of the ‘community at large’ were invited into the facility and to this end there were visits during the week from Eskimo football players, staff from The Edmonton Public Library, Pharmacare and other groups. Evan Gallant, Director of Health and Wellness at the Laurel Heights facility said that, “Vice

President of Operations Josh Kuhl for All Seniors Care came to our opening ceremonies and threw a ‘celebratory opening of the games’. Kuhl and the entire staff were a huge asset and so helpful during this high-octane week of activity”. Resident participation was excellent and 20% of the 100 residents at Laurel Heights competed in the events. The events included Wii Bowling, Wii golf, Billiards, Bocce, Shuffle Board, Bridge, Cribbage. It is amazing how electronically savvy seniors are becoming and how short a time it takes for them to pick-up the know-how of the game[s]. And of course not just games, many are extremely competent on computers and cell phones. There were some outstanding athletes, namely Elizabeth Feil who is 94 who won three medals and participated in the most activities. Alan Price won national gold for Wii golf and Dal Adams won a national gold for Bocce. Gallant explained that, “Athletes competed within the in-

NHL great Paul Coffey joins roster for the 2014 Alzheimer’s face-off Tournament to take place in Edmonton, April 11-13th By Alzheimer Society of Alberta Event will celebrate hockey royalty at the Legends Luncheon with Walter Gretzky, Friday, April 11th. Celebrated former Edmonton Oilers defenceman Paul Coffey is the next former NHL star confirmed to lace up his skates to play in the 2014 Alzheimer’s Face Off in Edmonton, along with notable legends Bryan Berard, Sean Brown, Nathan Dempsey and Mark Napier. These hockey greats will team up to lead the fight against Alzheimer’s, giving a host of enthusiastic fundraisers the chance to play alongside their childhood idols. Coffey will join previously announced players Rob Brown, Al Cameron, Russ Courtnall, Doug Hicks, Chris Joseph, Curtis Joseph, Mike Krushelnyski, Dave Lumley, Jamie Macoun, Brad May, Marty McSorley, Kraig Nienhuis, Fernando Pisani, Jason Strudwick, and Bryan Trottier. Additional alumni will be announced in the coming weeks leading up to the tournament. “With every name we add to the incredible host of NHL alumni, Edmonton’s 2014 Alzheimer’s Face Off gains more invaluable support in the fight against Alzheimer’s,” said Bill Gaudette, CEO, Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories. “This tournament raised $1 million for Alzheimer’s research last year, thanks to both this long list of NHL greats as well as passionate, keen participants. This year will truly be an amazing ex-

perience for everyone involved, and I have no doubt the support of the Edmonton community will astound us yet again.” “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be involved in this year’s tournament – this event just keeps getting bigger and better,” said Paul Coffey, former Edmonton Oilers defenceman. “Being a part of the 2014 Alzheimer’s Face Off means getting the chance to support an incredibly deserving cause, all the while playing the sport I love the most. I can’t wait to hit the ice with my team!” The Alzheimer’s Face Off will commemorate the best in hockey history at the Legends Luncheon on April 11th featuring the celebrated Walter Gretzky. This star-studded luncheon will have, amongst other hockey greats, Alex Delvecchio, Frank Mahovolich, and Garry Unger in attendance. Tickets are now available and can be purchased via the Alzheimer Society at 1-866-9505465 or online at Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.. Raising funds for the Alzheimer Society of Alberta and Northwest Territories, the Alzheimer’s Face Off charity hockey tournament will take place over two days and will provide amateur hockey players with the opportunity to play with their childhood NHL heroes while also raising funds for Alzheimer’s research. For more information about the tournament visit alzheimersfaceoff.ca, and follow the excitement on Twitter @AlzFaceOff and on Facebook.

dividual buildings but for certain games, such as Wii Bowling and Bocce Ball, scores were sent to the head office and compared between all of the buildings across Canada. Once the scores were tallied, national medals for the winners were then sent to the Winners’ buildings and presented to the winners at the closing ceremonies. Gallant summed up the event by saying, “it was an incredible event and I was so honoured to be a big part of it. Seeing that people of such age can still get up be active and have a lot of fun while doing it should be a huge inspiration to everyone”. So, a message to all seniors, keep up the fitness level, join in activities that get you moving and your lifestyle will be a little less stressful.

24 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Travel

Upcoming spring travel shows

Are you scared of Mexico?

By Jane Milburn Are you scared of Mexico? Then the town of Ajijic would be your first choice. It abounds with Gringos and has many amenities, including a HSBC bank, a Subway, Walmart, TelCel and COSTCO, all within twenty kilometres. People who speak Spanish and are used to the experiences of true Mexican culture while traveling will probably shudder, but if you are just transitioning into the world of traveling south, it is a excellent way to wade your way into the waters rather than jumping in head first. There are houses, houses everywhere, but not a drop to drink! Well there is Tequila of course, but all your drinking water has to be bought and carried into the house in big blue jugs. Something that takes a little getting used to! You can amuse yourself by hiking hot dusty trails and peering over the vast local terrain, or kayak the Lake Chapala and observe (or torment, as I did!) the wonderful bird life. I paddled secretly and quietly (so I thought) amongst the grasses and reeds but apparently not quietly enough, as clouds of cormorants, pelicans and ducks lifted into the rich evening sky. My kayak tutor was strict “Keep your arms straight and move from the waist!”, and I obliged. All went well! If golf is your thing, for 450 pesos (there are 12

Anderson pleased to announce their spring travel shows featuring new Journeys product, Travel Oregon, Tourism Winnipeg, Tourism Saskatchewan and Rocky Mountaineer

A typical restaurant in Ajijic. The majority of restaurants have outdoor seating to enjoy the sunshine. Submitted by Jane Milburn

pesos to the dollar) you can enjoy the sport. I saw a happy group of men yarning and preening in the shady nineteenth hole of a posh public clubhouse. It offered delicious meals of pescario (fish), or pollo (chicken). The only Spanish word that I really need is “quiero”, which translates to “I want”! You can also take spanish lessons at the Lake Chapala Society, which offers all sorts of intriguing classes: yoga, art, philosophical discussions and even travel talks. They also have a huge video library and books for everyone’s taste. You can join for the whole year or by the month, which is useful for visitors. Ajijic is a maze of tiny streets which house all kinds of tiny shops, offering a variety of clothes, art, jewelry, dainty hair coiffeurs, beauty products, and laundry services. There are a large number of realtors as well. Varied restaurants abound in savory; many featuring secluded sumptuous courtyards. Cars push down the tiny streets and bump over the cobbles, which rattle your teeth if you should try to bike down to the “Malecon”, which borders the lake. See MEXICO, Page 24

Anderson Vacations is pleased to announce that on March 12th, 2014 at Sutton Place Hotel in Edmonton that they will unveil their 2014 product line up in conjunction with their destination and supplier partners from across Western Canada and the state of Oregon. This is a chance as well for the company to discuss more with their clients about their new “Journeys” tours which will include home pick up, be air inclusive and provide clients the opportunity to check off some of those “bucket list” destinations and experiences. Join President/CEO Corey Marshall, his management and product team as they announce their product line up and also share with you all of the ways they are celebrating their 20th Anniversary in business. For those interested in attending please RSVP to Heather Murray at hmurray@andersonvacations.ca or toll free on 1 866 814 7378. Space is limited.

Upcoming ToUrs PORTLAND: Waterfalls, Shopping & Tulips

April 6 - 13 – 8 Days Everything is in bloom in the Pacific Northwest, and it is a great time to meander through Spokane and the Columbia River Gorge to Portland, with its cool vibe and laid back culture. $1040 Price per person

Anderson Vacations Manitou Hot Springs EXCLUSIVE 20th ANNIVERARY April 28 - may 2 – 5 days Right in the province next door is at CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE April 14 - 17 – 4 days Fairmont Hotels has put together a program exclusively for Anderson Vacations, at the spectacular Chateau Lake Louise, premier resort hotel of the Rockies. Join us for this Gala Event! $995 Price per person

WHAT’S NEW!

San Juan Islands & Seattle

may 25 - April 1 – 8 Days one of the best spa and healing Combine the flavours of Vancouver, with mineral springs in the country. its multicultural influence, with the glorious Take time out for you this spring … explosion of colour in the gardens of the coast and Vancouver Island, and you have a winner! $595 Price per person *Transportation to Edmonton available $1650 Price per person for Calgary customers at addition cost.

June 7 - 15 – 9 Days Whale watching off the Pacific Coast, quaint Friday Harbour, the best attractions of the Emerald City, and the lovely Bavarian themed town of Leavenworth. What better spring trip! $2125 Price per person

2014 Day Tour Schedule available! Call us to request your copy.

Below are a couple of Anderson new JoUrnEY Tours:

Get ready for Anderson Vacations Journeys product. These trips feature explorer itineraries to exciting and exotic destinations, places you have dreamed about and wished for. And we will take you there. As always, we want to take the worry out of travel for you and make sure your travel experience is hassle free. So we have added additional amenities to make your experience even better. · Home pick up on all Journeys Product · 50% off the single supplement for the first 4 singles on select departures!

Upcoming Travel Show!

Vancouver Island Gardens & Gourmet

New Orleans & Cajun Country

April 11 - 18 – 8 days Experience the heart and soul of creole in The Big Easy and the dynamic state of Louisiana. Music, Cajun, plantation country, Mississippi River, and food that you just have to love. $3340 Price per person

Coast to Coast by Train

may 6 - 18 – 13 Days Canada was built on the railroad, and this tour gives you the opportunity to travel from the west coast to the east coast, experiencing the grandness of this vast country first hand. $5885 Price per person

Magic of Ireland

may 17 - 28 – 12 Days The beauty of Ireland is not only in its lush green hills, the ancient castles, the vibrant music and pub culture; it is in the warmth of the people, quick to laugh and open in heart. $5245 Price per person

• Show discounts of up to $400 per couple • • Prizes & Giveaways • Two Show Times: 9:00AM or 1:00pm • Refreshments • Sutton Place Hotel

March 12th, 2014

For reservations or information contact our Friendly, Professional Reservation

Call toll free 866-344-7378 • Office in Calgary 430-245-6200 or email bookings@andersonvacations.ca

20th ANNIVERSARY ALASKA CRUISE

August 12 - 18 – 8 Days Join president Corey Marshall and his family on a 7 day Alaska Cruise with Princess Cruise Lines round trip from Vancouver. The best way to see coastal Alaska! PricES from $2475 Price per person Discounts of up to $400 pp still available

Call to RSVP today! Limitied transportation available

#301, 1117 1st Street SW, Calgary, AB

www.andersonvacations.ca

All pricing is per person based on double occupancy, plus gsT. single pricing available please call. gsT charged where applicable. single and triple fares available on most tours.

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 25

World War I Centenary to be commemorated

MEXICO

From Page 24 Public transport is excellent on jolly little buses which tear along the Caraterra; the main road around the lake. You do not need your car, as taxis are cheap and plentiful. Mexicans are vigorous drivers and I witnessed two needless collisions as I hid beneath the shade of the Primavera trees, which line the main road. There is an excellent travel agency called The Charter Tour Company so you can make Ajijic your base for all sorts of adventures. Visit the swarming Monarch butterflies, a Tequila farm or a natural spa that plunks you in coffee and cider vinegar tubs and then massages you in mud; or go to the beach at Puerto Vallarta. The evidence speaks for itself as every other person is either from the USA or Canada and they tell me they have visited each year,

Includes: • • • • • •

A typical restaurant in Ajijic. The majority of restaurants have outdoor seating to enjoy the sunshine. (inset) A house in Ajijic, Mexico. Houses nd roads are more compact than in Canada. Submitted by Jane Milburn

or have even bought properties and lived here for many years. The wonderful climate, friendly people, good food and company

keeps this area high on the list of ‘where I wannabe.’ Who knows? Perhaps it could be where you want to be, too.

By Denise Daubert Almost one hundred years ago, on August 3rd of 1914, war was declared. In what was to become a tragic period in the annals of world history, this war lasted for a period of four years and three months and it affected people around the world in many ways. The Great War (as it is referred to by historians) ended on November 11th in 1918 when Germany signed an armistice with the Allies. The battles were fought across Europe. Many countries sent troops to the European fronts, including Canada. In total, some 620,000 men and women answered the call to military duty. Wounded? Some 173,000. And 67,000 lives were lost in battle. Soldiers experience the many horrors of war. Many of them left good lives and cherished families at the homefront. For those families back in Canada, there was worry and sadness. Those soldiers that died in battle

Accommodation in Deluxe Room, double occupancy Full board meals (breakfast buffet, lunch, coffee / pastry and dinner) Consultations with our in-house doctors Daily treatments, designed for your specific health needs Access to our 7 different steams, saunas, and pools Complimentary internet and free underground valet parking

meant families lost husbands, sons, uncles or brothers. The last surviving veteran of the Canadian military to have served in WW1 was John Babcock. He died in early 2010. He served between 1916 and 1918 and was a young man from Ontario. Not only will Remembrance Day 2014 (being observed on November 11th) be extremely special this year, there are a number of special commemorations marking the centenary. Those with ancestors who served in The Great War have amazing research opportunities to learn more about a family member’s service in The Great War. Special commemorations in 2014 The Royal Canadian Mint has designed and produced a special coin (Proof Fine Silver Dollar) representative of those who fought and those left behind. See their website for information at www.mint.ca. See MEMORIAL, Page 28

Call 1.877.275.1556 for more information and to make your reservation!

*Price is per person based on double occupancy.

Okanagan Valley, Vernon, BC

1.877.275.1556

www.sparklinghill.com

26 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Town On The

Compiled by Denise Daubert

ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS

Muttart Conservatory Feature Pyramid Display – March 8 to April 6 Enjoy thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths of the Netherlands in this annual spring bulb show. 9626 – 96 A. Street. Ph. 311 from inside Edmonton or 780-442-5311 from outside Edmonton. 2014 Edmonton Boat & Sportsman Show – March 13 to 16 Edmonton EXPO Centre. Ph. 780471-7210. Sherwood Park/Strathcona County SUN Chapter Meeting – March 18 Topic: Elder Abuse: Scams and Frauds with guest speaker John Fuga of Alberta Crime Watch Association. 1:30 p.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church (298 Bethel Drive, Sherwood Park). Ph. 780-464-2288. Seniors Dance and Social – March 20 Dance, socialize or just enjoy the music; partners and singles welcome. Band: The Hi-Lites. 7 to 10 p.m. with doors open at 6:30 p.m. At the Log Cabin in Sherwood Park (50A Spruce Avenue). Tickets $9 per person and purchased at the door. Ph. 780-413-3300. 2014 Edmonton Home & Garden Show – March 20 to 23 March 20 from 4 to 9 p.m., March 21 from noon to 9 p.m., March 22 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and March 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Edmonton EXPO Centre. Ph. 780-471-7210.

TOLL FREE: 888-883-9114

Edmonton Nature Club Monthly Meeting – March 21 Guest speaker: John Acorn. Presentation: New Insights into Edmonton Butterflies, and the Role of the Naturalist. 7 p.m. for refreshments and 7:30 for the meeting. King’s University College (9125 – 50 Street). Ph. 780-459-6389. Edmonton and District Historical Society Monthly Speaker Series – March 25 The EDHS welcomes members and the general public to their monthly speaker series; free to attend. Topic: Recollections of a French Pioneer in the Athabasca Country 1910-1914 Guest speaker will be Dr. Vivien Bosley. Queen Alexandra School gymnasium (7730 – 106 Street); 7:30 p.m. Ph. 780-439-2797. Seniors Fitness Day – March 27 Join in on either a workout that is suitable for all fitness levels or take part in a walk on the track; also featured will be a guest speaker, coffee and snacks. 10 a.m. to noon at Millennium Place in Sherwood Park. Drop-in admission or Millennium Card required. Ph. 780-416-3300. Tracing Your Family Tree Course – March 29, April 12 and May 3 An annual course, presented by The Alberta Genealogical Society. Course will run on three Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each date. Pre-registration required. #162, 14315 – 118 Avenue. Ph. 780-424-4429. West Edmonton Mall 55+ Senior Social – April 2 Phase I in front of Target; centre stage. Featuring Linda Keith and The Emeralds. Ph. 780-444-5321. Central Lions Seniors Welcome Tours – Ongoing Fridays For those who would like to learn about Central Lions and programs, there are tours at 1:30 p.m. each week. Please call ahead to leave your name if you wish to take a tour. 11113 – 113 St. Ph. 780496-7369. North Edmonton Seniors Association Bake Sale – March 27 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 7524 – 109 Avenue. Ph. 780-496-6969.

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3 nights in Deadwood at the Mineral Palace, 1 in Great Falls, 1 in Regina, 4 breakfast, $10 Slot Play, $5 food coupon, Wine & cheese reception, Slot & blackjack tournaments with cash prizes, optional Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse

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12 days - $649.00

6 nights in Laughlin, 3 in Wendover and 2 in Helena, 9 meals, Slot Play & side tours

NEW

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2 nights in Helena w/4 meals, 4 in Wendover with side tours. 4 buffets, $28 slot play +

ELKO / ELY and WENDOVER 10 days - April 28 to May 7

2 nights in Helena and Elko, 3 in Ely and 2 in Wendover, 6 meals, visit the Eureka Opera House, and th Sentinel Museum. Enjoy a Historic Train ride, the Great Basin National Park Visitor Center, Lehman Caves and enjoy a tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats.

NORTHERN LIGHTS CASINO 3 days $199.00

RIVER ROCK RESORT & CASINO

March 16, May 11 NEW 2 breakfasts and a $75.00 Casino Package Edmonton area area via hyw 16 east

6 days - $549.00 - April 27 & Oct 5

COEUR D’ALENE CASINO

GLACIER PEAKS CASINO RESORT

6 days $469.00 • April 9 and Oct 8

1 lunch, $20 in slot play, $30 food & beverage, city tour, Granville Island & Historic Stevenson Browning, MT

4 days - $339.00

2 nights Kootenai River Casino 2 x $5.00 meal coupons 3 night Coeur d’Alene Casino $25.00 Slot Play, $45.00 Food & Bev

3 breakfasts, $75.00 Casino Package, Shopping in Great Falls

DEADWOOD, SD

DEADWOOD SUMMER SPECIAL

7 Days $509.00 • May 3 & Sept 3

NEW

April 14, May 5

7 Days - $569.00

3 nights in Deadwood at the Mineral Palace, June 7, July 11, Aug 9 1 in Great Falls, 1 in Regina, 5 breakfast, Same as 7 day tour with added features of a $10 Slot Play, $5 food coupon, Jewelry Factory Tour, Shopping in Rapid City and a Cowboy BBQ Dinner with good old Wine & cheese reception, entertainment that will have you Slot & blackjack tournaments, optional Keystone, Clappin’ your hands and Tappin your Toes Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 5 days – June 26

2 nights in Helena, 2 in Yellowstone, 5 meals, Virginia City, Quake Lake Yellowstone National Park w/Old Faithful.

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SUN St. Albert Chapter Monthly Meetings – 4th Monday Monthly The March 25th guest speaker will be Lori Jack , a geriatric nurse with St. Albert Primary Care Network. Meeting starts at 1:30 p.m. Cornerstone Pentecostal Fellowship Church (Grandin Mall, 22 Sir Winston Churchill Avenue) in St. Albert). Ph. 780-460-7736. Meals on Wheels Lunch n’ Learn Sessions – First Tuesday of Each Month Sessions are held from 12 p.m. – 12:45 p.m. A Registered Dietitian leads a session on various nutrition and healthy living topics. Sessions are free but you must preregister. Either bring your own lunch or purchase the lunch of the day. Parking is free. Ph. 780-4292020. Spring Rummage Sale Coronado United Church – March 22, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. 4 miles north of Gibbons on Hwy 28, ½ mile east on TWP Rd. 570. Bethel Lutheran Church - Come and see the compelling movie Faith Like Potatoes based upon the true story of Angus Buchan, ‘South Africa’s Billy Graham,’ at Bethel Lutheran, Sherwood Park on Sunday, March 16th. There will be 2 showings 2pm and 6pm - with a goodwill offering accepted.

IN CONCERT Edmonton Classical Guitar Society – March 7 Rovshan Mamedkuliev 8 p.m., Muttart Hall, Alberta College (10050 Macdonald Drive). Tickets through Avenue Guitars and Acoustic Music Shop in Edmonton and ADW Music in St. Albert and from TIX-On-The-Square 780-420-1757. Full Moon Folk Club – March 7 Del Barber plus Karen Savoca March 21 Vin Garbutt Doors at 7 p.m. with shows at 8 p.m. both dates. St. Basil’s Cultural Centre (10819 – 71 Avenue). Tickets at Acoustic Music Shop, TIX-On-The-Square (780420-1757) or at the door.

PROMOTION TOURS www.promotiontours.ca

780-460-4408 or 1-866-460-0777 (toll free) TASTE OF THE ATLANTIC & NEWFOUNDLAND

15 DAYS DEPARTING June 10 & Sept 9 $3295.00 Both dates guaranteed INCLUDES RETURN AIRFARE, 14 nights accomm. (7 in Nfld) local tour guide, Lobster dinner plus 18 other meals, ferry crossings, admission & tours to numerous tourist locations in all 4 Atlantic provinces including Peggy’s Cove, Anne of Green Gables, Alexander Graham Bell Museum, Cape Breton Island, Twillingate, Cape Spear and much more.

MOOSE JAW TEMPLE GARDENS April 21 (Guaranteed) & May 6 4 Days - $319.00 $60 casino pkg, unlimited spa use NORTHERN LIGHTS CASINO (PRINCE ALBERT) 3 Days - $199.00 Apr 27 2 nights accomm., 2 breakfasts, $75 casino pkg.

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS & VICTORIA (Guaranteed)

9 days - Apr 21 - $839.00

1 night Vernon, 2 nights Harrison, 4 nights Victoria, 1 @ 3 Valley Gap, Guided city tour of Victoria, Circle Farm tour & lunch in the Fraser Valley, Butterfly Gardens, Butchart Gardens, Steak bar-b-que, Vancouver Island tour.

HISTORIC DEADWOOD 6 Days - Apr 27 - $429.00

1 night Regina, 3 nights Mineral Palace Deadwood, 1 night Moose Jaw Temple Gardens, $45.00 Casino pkg. (Sask.), Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse & Black Hills tour ($15.00 p.p.)

MOTHER’S DAY IN JASPER 2 Days - May 10 - $169.00 Accomm. at Lobstick Lodge, Mother’s Day Brunch, Athabasca Falls & Maligne Canyon. BRANSON SPRING TOUR 13 Days - May 18 - $1639.00

9 days - Mar 22 - $499.00

12 nights accomm. (5 in Branson), 12 breakfasts, 8 shows in Branson, incl. 2 dinner shows, Branson City tour, Precious Moments Chapel, Mall of America in Minneapolis

LAUGHLIN & GRAND CANYON

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 5 Days - June 28 - $499.00

LAUGHLIN & GRAND CANYON (Guaranteed)

2 nights Helena, 2 nights Wendover, 4 nights Laughlin, 7 meals, $14 slot play, trip to Grand Canyon

(Guaranteed)

12 days - Apr 5 - $649.00 2 nights Helena, 3 nights Wendover (Rainbow), 6 nights Laughlin, 9 meals, $15 cash, trip to Vegas & Grand Canyon

4 nights accom. 4 hot breakfasts Tour of Yellowstone (Old Faithful) Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Centre and Imax Theatre

Prices based on per person (double occupancy) Cdn. Funds + GST on Cdn. Tours

Centres SENIOR

By Albert J. Fernando

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 27

St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and spring courses in March “Creative Writing: The Plot Thickens,” will be conducted every Thursday, from March 6 to 27 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. A Travel Talk on “River Cruising— Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of Mekong,” will be held on March 11 from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m.

Jewish Senior Citizen’s Centre Phone: 780-488-4241

Calder Seniors Drop-in Centre Phone: 780-451-1925 Live music jam sessions are held every Wednesday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Fun and Friendship Coffee Group meets every Tuesday from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Pancake Breakfast will be served on March 2 from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Birthday Party will be held on March 7 from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by the Drama Club. Potluck Bingo will be held on the same day starting at 5:00 p.m. Military Whist will be played on March 10 and 27 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Floor Shuffleboard takes place on March 3, 17 and 31 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

Central Lions Seniors Centre Phone: 780-496-7369 A 3-hour class on Digital Photography and Video will be conducted on March 5 from 9:00 a.m. to noon. Also on the same day, there will be a class on Editing Your Digital Photos from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

A trip to listen to Big Band at John L. Haar Theatre, MacEwan University, 10045-156 Street, Edmonton, takes place on March 2 at 7:00 p.m. Celebrate PURIM with a Purim Speil (play) on March 17. A trip to attend the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers performance at Jubilee Auditorium is on March 20 at 10:00 a.m. On March 26 there is a visit to River Cree Casino, leaving at 10:30 a.m. A trip to see “Light in the Piazza,” at John L. Haar Theatre has been scheduled for March 30, leaving at 2:00 p.m.

NESA – Phone: 780-496-6969 NESA which runs the Northgate Lions Seniors Association has already issued its Spring Programs and Activity Guide. Call for a copy or check their website: www.nesa1.ca. Spring registration begins on March 24. St. Patrick’s Tea is on March 14 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Crafts are on sale and there will be door prizes. Also, meet few of your City Council Members. Senior-friendly fitness centre is open Monday and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday Night Dances will be held on March 5, 12, 19 and 26, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.

SAGE – Phone: 780-423-5510 Arthritis 101 presentation is on March 4 at 1:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. High Tea at Hotel MacDonald followed by a historical tour is on March 8. Please register by March 6. Meet at the Hotel at 2:15 p.m. Snap-Happy Photography Group meets 10:30 a.m. on March 13. St. Patrick’s Day Party takes place on March 17 at 1:00 p.m. This will be an afternoon of fun, dessert and entertainment. The movie “The Butler,” will be screened on March 21 at 1:00 p.m. Birthday Party is on March 27 at 1:15 p.m. Please note that SAGE will provide assistance to low-income seniors to prepare their income tax returns for 2013. Phone 780-423-5510 to make an appointment.

Westend Seniors Activity Centre Phone: 780-483-1209 “A Bite of China” a Chinese Cookery workshop will be conducted on March 4from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Recipes and nutritional information will be provided. Income Tax assistance to prepare filing their tax returns will be provided to low-income seniors on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in March from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tasty Travel program features Ireland on March 15 with lunch and a movie. An informal bereavement support service will be provided on March 12 between 2:00 and 3:30 p.m. (Please note that no fees for events have been published. Kindly call the particular seniors centre for details.)

ESCORTED MOTORCOACH TOURS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Fly to Cairns & return from Aucklan 27 days, various dates

BRITISH COLUMBIA BEST Includes Victoria and Inside Passage Cruise! 10 days, July 4

GREAT BRITAIN & IRELAND Featuring England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales! 15 days, various dates

BRITISH COLUMBIA CIRCLE Includes Inside Passage Cruise & Train Ride! 8 days, August 17

VICTORIA STAY AWHILE Enjoy a “taste of spring” tour! 9 days, April 7 guaranteed

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CALIFORNIA REDWOODS and SAN FRANCISCO Towering redwood forests, Reno & Jackpot 10 days, April 17, October 16 CALIFORNIA WINE COUNTRY, SAN FRANCISCO AND OREGON COAST Includes the Napa Valley Wine Train! 13 days, May 7, September 10 ALASKA MIDNIGHT SUN Includes the Inside Passage Cruise! 19 days, June 2 & 23 guaranteed VICTORIA and THE PACIFIC RIM Includes a whale watching cruise! 8 days, June 12

CROSS CANADA by MOTORCOACH Autumn Splendour Tour! 29 days, September 6 & 9 MARITIMES by MOTORCOACH Several FLY Tours to Choose From! NASHVILLE, BRANSON & THE SMOKEY MOUNTAINS Dollywood, Graceland & Grand Ole Opry! 21 days, October 8 guaranteed NASHVILLE, BRANSON and MEMPHIS Graceland, Grand Ole Opry & more! 16 days, October 13 guaranteed

TRAVEL SHOW! Sunday, March 30, 2014 - 2:00 p.m. Ramada Hotel North - Courtyard Room 11830 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton Complimentary when pre-registered

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28 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Annual Snow Goose Chase By Bob Parsons Here in Edmonton, we are very fortunate to be right on the western edge of the annual snow goose migration route to the Arctic tundra and there is no sight that I know of that can compare to seeing thousands of the beautiful geese flying en masse northwards. All nature lovers welcome the sights and sounds of migrating geese, swans and other waterfowl, usually from late March to early May. There are many favourite staging areas and lakes in our vicinity where the huge flocks of Canada, White-front and Lesser Snow geese tend to rest up and feed in preparation for the final push north. Good places to witness this annual fly-through include Joseph Lake, Miquelon Lake, Big Lake (St. Albert), Bretonna Pond as well as the many sloughs and ponds in the Tofield and Beaverhill Lake area just to the east of the city. Even though

MEMORIAL

From Page 25 Canada Post will release a new stamp on Remembrance Day 2014 as a memorial to The Great War. Ottawa will be the site of a statue in honour of In Flanders Fields poet, Canadian solider John McCrae. This famous poem was written in May 1915 and the statue will be unveiled in May of 2015; the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery is spearheading this project. McCrae’s poem is very recognizable by young and senior-aged Canadians alike and it is recited at Remembrance Day ceremonies across Canada. Many other initiatives are happening across Canada and across the globe to mark the Great War Centenary. A good website, offering news and information and also including educational resources is www. centenarynews.com. Ancestors in The Great War Do you have ancestors on your family tree who served in World War 1? I do. A great uncle from my paternal line (who enlisted in Alberta) served, as did a great uncle of my husband (who enlisted in Saskatchewan) from

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Beaverhill Lake is still pretty dry these days, the area still attracts many species of ducks, shorebirds and other waterfowl that take a break before moving on northwards. The snow geese can be found in very large flocks and tend to be quite vocal. When flying they stay together in large groups but do not fly in the V formation as swans and Canada geese do. Because of the apparent waving motion of the flying lines, snow geese are sometimes known as “wavies”. The Edmonton Nature Club is again organizing the 15th annual Snow Goose Chase, which this year will take place on the weekend of April 26/27th. There will be up to 8 buses for innercity youth and families again this year but most important of all, the club is again operating three buses for the paying public which depart around 8.30 am from the Percy Page Centre on 118 Ave and Groat Road. The guided tour will take par-

ticipants to Hastings Lake, then onto Tofield and the Beaverhill Lake Nature Centre as well as visiting the many displays and exhibits set up in the local community hall. Visits are planned to other viewing spots and all will witness the many thousands of snow geese coming through the area. There will also be occasion to see and hear about sandhill cranes, hawks and owls that are present in the Tofield vicinity. Most years close to 50 species can be seen during the outing if the weather holds up! The scouts, tour guides and assistants are all very experienced and it is a tremendous nature learning opportunity for all taking part. The $42 ticket price includes a hot luncheon at the Royal Tofield Legion, snacks, juices, door prizes and various give-aways. Spotting scopes, binoculars, bird books and checklists are readily available so a great day out is guaranteed!

his maternal line. My great uncle, Louis Accarias, came back home to Canada safely from the war. My husband’s great uncle, Russell Long, tragically died on a battlefield in France and did not come back home to Canada safely from the war; he is buried in France. With technology offering digitized records and websites, it means that I have been able to learn about these ancestors and their military service. I was also fortunate in that family stories had been passed down about both gentlemen, making it easier to research and find or order documents about them. Some websites that may be helpful to you in researching Canadian ancestors who served in The Great War include: The Vimy Foundation (www. vimyfoundation.ca), The Memory Project (www. thememoryproject.com) and Archives Canada (www.collectionscanada.gc.ca); link to Military Heritage and then search the WW1 databases. At this Archives Canada site, you can enter the name of an ancestor and find his or her attestation papers and other documents tied to their military service.

Canadian War Museum The phenomenal Canadian War Museum in Ottawa opened in 2005. This world-class facility informs Canadians about their military heritage. There is a specific exhibit area on The Great War. My husband and I were fortunate to visit The Canadian War Museum in the autumn of 2013. It is so worth a visit and we felt so grateful for our freedom here in Canada after being there and also realized the great sacrifice Canadian soldiers have made over the years in various wars. There is a comprehensive website at www.warmuseum.ca. Several of the Virtual Exhibits pertain specifically to The Great War. Genealogy Items of Interest A recent ribbon cutting downtown at 99 Street and 103 A Avenue (the site of the former Main Edmonton Post Office) means that plans are going ahead for the construction of a new facility for the Royal Alberta Museum. This new facility will replace the museum now located west of downtown in Glenora. It is slated to open in 2016. Edmonton is to be home to the first outdoor neon museum in Canada which will be up and ready by the time you read this. The TELUS Equipment Building at 104 Street and south of 104 Avenue will showcase eight neon signs on its exterior that are all important parts of Edmonton’s history (including signs from Mike’s News and W.W. Arcade). Additional signs will be added as they are donated. Local sign companies have donated time to repair or reproduce parts of signs that were in poor condition. Plaques will also be featured and will outline the history of each sign. Of course, the best time to view these nostalgic neon signs will be at night!

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EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 29

EDMONTON Senior Bingo’s Pet Shop: A Pet Store Helping Shelter Animals By Travis Grant “You guys have a pet store inside the Edmonton Humane Society?! Wow, that’s so cool.” It’s something we hear all the time here. When some people visit us they expect to see little more than an adoption gallery full of cats, dogs, and small animals. Maybe it’s because they remember our previous shelter, the one that stood kitty corner to the old Gainers meat packing plant, on a dusty stretch of the Yellowhead Trail. If those are the images that inform some impressions, then the sight of our new shelter – with its bright glass façade, exposed beams, and vibrant siding (a sophisticated nod to the dreary metal cladding of old) – will swiftly change minds. When we were designing our new shelter, part of the philosophy was to provide as much service and support as possible to pet owners. This gave rise, among other things, to our vision for Bingo’s Pet Shop. Located immediately across from our adoptions desk, Bingo’s is a place where adopters and the general public can purchase food, leashes, toys, pet care items, and many other accessories, while getting sound advice on responsible pet ownership. If you’re looking for a great gift for the animal lover in your life, Bingo’s has that covered, too; the shop has plenty of pet-related gift items, and staff members are never short on ideas. One of the most difficult aspects of pet ownership is the eventual loss of a companion animal. When we survive our pets, we’re understandably burdened by a deep sense of loss and grief, and we do what we can to remember them. Bingo’s staff members are pet owners who know intimately that pets are a part of our families, so they’ve given careful consideration on ways to honour a pet’s memory. Bingo’s

Advertise HERE

Be part of our new ALL ABOUT PETS page

780.470.5602

carries memorial cards, frames, and a beautiful selection of urns to help keep your pet’s presence felt in the home long after they’ve passed. Many of our customers like to show support for our shelter and our animals by wearing official Edmonton Humane Society clothing and accessories. Bingo’s carries EHS hooded sweatshirts, jackets, hats, and t-shirts. We love seeing our supporters proudly wearing EHS gear. It’s a powerful, heartwarming visual of animal advocacy in action. For those who’ve got a speciality product in mind that we don’t currently carry, not to worry. Bingo’s staff members are able to make special orders for our customers. In fact, we’re happy to do it. Talking with people about special order items helps the Bingo’s team learn about new products that other customers might not know about but find useful and wish to order. What sets Bingo’s apart from its competitors is revenue generated from sales goes directly back into the shelter, helping us provide care for the thousands of homeless, neglected, and abused companion animals each year. Our relationship with our customers is circular – we’re animal lovers helping animal lovers. And by supporting one another, we provided tremendous support for the companion animals who need it the most.

Pet PHOTO of the Month WINNER

“Pip” the Yorkshire Terrier

Congratulations to Enid Binsted. Her photo of “Pip”, the Yorkshire terrier wins Edmonton Senior’s Pet Photo of the Month contest.

Do you have great photos of your pet? One of them could win you PRIZES or $50 in cash. Just enter them in the Edmonton Senior Pet Photo Contest. Every month the best photo is selected by a panel of judges and wins the prize. Email your photographs to

senior@abr.greatwest.ca or send prints by postal mail to

Pet Photo Contest, Edmonton Senior 340 Carleton Drive, St. Albert, AB T8N 7L3 Bingo’s Pet Shop

TRAVELLING THIS SEASON? What to do with the cats?

Cat Sitting by The Cat Lady House sitting also available Call Sandra at

780-982-6496

Let your cat(s) enjoy your vacation in the comfort of their own home

Prize Basket provided by the

30 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Classifieds WANTED Gently used computer with “Word” or equivalent & IBM 2000 Internet desktop. Offers or possible trade? (780)756-3228.

WANTED Will buy or sell any type of unwanted guns.Please call Ben 780-915-3477 between 4pm-9pm.

ACCOMMODATION WANTED Accommodation wanted senior non-smoking male, fit, would like to rent 1 bedroom with shared kitchen and bathroom. Willing to do household chores, clean snow, cut grass in exchange for partial rent. Good cook & handyman. 780-996-9815

HELP WANTED Wanted: house cleaner for duplex, SE side. Must be efficient, able to organize. Good wage for good work. Monthly or bi-monthly. 2-3 hours. References. (780)756-3228.

Senior Meeting Senior Ladies

Ladies

63 year old SWF, healthy, fit and active, and living in Sherwood Park, would like to meet gentleman 62-70 years old with similar qualities. Would also like him to have a sense of humour and NS, SD. Looking for a partner to enjoy walking, cycling, dining out, movies, theatre and a little travel together. Box #3093.

Slim, trim, widow (73) looking for gentleman (74-84) who likes short trips, walks in the woods, dining out and holding hands at movie shows plus interesting conversations at the fireside. All replies answered. Box #3036.

Single white female, social drinker, non-smoker, mid 70’s, very active.Looking for sincere honest gent who is in good health. Someone who wants a nice long term companionship, likes driving, walking, dining out, some travel, day trips, etc, between 68-77. No couch potatoes. Box #3102.

I’m 69 years young, SWF, petite, blonde, good dresser, very active, love dancing, movies, sports, golf, and travel. Love going to church, born again Christian. Looking for male who must have some of the same values. Box #3073. W/F looking for healthy active widower, 70-80 yrs. young, sense of humor, loves country music, dancing & travelling. Send photo. Box #3099.

Place your Senior Metting Senior AD Here LADIES, GENTLEMAN or COMPANION Use the form below or call:780.470.5602

EDMONTON SENIOR CLASSIFIED ADS Name: Address: Postal Code: Email: Phone: AD Content:

Classif ied CALL 7 Advertising 80.470 .5602 340 Ca rle

ton Driv St. Albe e r t , AB T8N , classifie 7L ds@

1 stal www.alb bert.greatwest.c ertaseni a or.com 25 words o (Each add

r less $2

1.95 + g

itional wo

rd @ 25 c

ents each

Announcements For Sale • For Rent Seniors Meeting Seniors Help Wanted & Much More!

CALL 780.470.5602 or use the form below DEADLINE: 18th of Month PRIOR

• Mail to Edmonton Senior Newspaper 340 Carleton Drive, St. Albert, AB T8N 7L1 • Email: classifieds@stalbert.greatwest.ca • Call 780-470-5602 or Fax to 780-460-8220 25 words or less ................................................ $21.95 Each additional word @ 25 cents each.............. N/C Free box number (Check if needed) ............ q Mailing out box replies (if desired) ........ $2.00.

5% GST....................................................... Total ...........................................................

(attach additional sheet if necessary) Payment is required with insertion orders.

Classified Advertising

For Individuals Only (not for businesses)

City:

)

Please address Box replies c/o Edmonton Senior 340 Carleton Drive St. Albert, AB T8N 7L1 Box XXXX

q Cheque Enclosed Payable to Edmonton Senior

q Mastercard q Visa q American Express

CardHolder Name Card No. Signature: Expiry Date: Edmonton Senior Newspaper reserves the right to refuse any advertisement

EDMONTON SENIOR, March 2014 31

Business Classifieds CALL 780.470.5602 to Advertise Your Services!

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780-540-4310 Cell 780-719-8837

 Relocation

Service Reasonably Priced

I BUY/SELL Antiques, Artwork, etc. 30yrs.

* Estate Dispersal * Coins & Jewelry * Collectables

780-999-6105 Home Upholstery Ltd.

TURN CRAP INTO CASH CRAP 2 CASH We are looking for quAlITy CONSIGNMENT MARKET Consignments Consignments accepted by appointment only

• Live auctions every Thursday 6pm to 8:30pm •

EDMONTON’S #1 CONSIGNMENT STORE! Bonded and Insured • Estimates Provided • Pickup Available

780.439.2727 10375 - 59 Avenue OPEN: SAT 10 - 6 & SUN 10 - 5 www.crap2cash.com • info@crap2cash.com

• Electrical, Plumbing, Painting, Bathrooms • Install hot water tanks, Bathtub/shower grab bars • Many happy customers! • Insured

Assistance looking for, moving to, settling in a new residence. Licensed, Bonded & Police Screened

Pager Number

780-419-4673

Serving Edm & Area Since 2006

780-996-3069

Buy/Sell

SAVE LOTS OF $$ USE A HANDYMAN!

Stair lifts Scooters Porch lifts Hospital beds, etc

Com./Res. Painting or Carpentry/Renos 30 years experience Reasonable Rates

Call SILVER CROSS®

Splish Splash Painting/ Carpentry 780-691-9959

780-450-6992

Senior EDMONTON

Your Senior Connection in the Capital Region

Edmonton Senior Business Classfieds

Here to help with your Service needs! Call 780.470.5602 • www.albertasenior.com

32 March 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Now Renting in Leduc! LEDUC LIFESTYLE OPTIONS RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Now renting one bedrooms! • Socially interactive dining experience • Meaningful unique life experiences • Independent living with home care, Designated Supportive Living & Dementia Care • Visiting health professionals, foot care, hair salon, spiritual services & so much more • New move-in incentives • We’ll drive! Our buses are spacious

Call today!

780.980.3064

RIVERBEND SQUARE

200 Falconer Court • Edmonton, AB 780.433.2223

TERRA LOSA 17203 99 Avenue • Edmonton, AB 780.435.2000

Now Renting! WHITEMUD CROSSING

4069 106 Street • Edmonton, AB 780.437.7171

www.lifestyleoptions.ca

W Haven Dr

Hwy

50th Ave

lizabeth

Queen E

108 West Haven Drive Just south of HWY 39 HOURS Mon – Sat 9am to 5pm

Now Renting

Grant MacEwan Blvd

Leduc Showsuites

W Haven Blvd

with wheel chair & walker access

Black &

Gold Dr 2