Edmonton Senior News 2014 February by Kary Bowen

Senior EDMONTON

February 2014

Your Senior Connection in the Capital Region

Volume 24, No. 5

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CABIN FEVER BASH

Residents and staff members of Touchmark at Wedgewood got in some street hockey as part of the West End residence’s Cabin Fever Bash on January 21. The group “Plamondon” provided entertainment for a party indoors, where participants warmed up with a “Touchmark signature drink” following the game. Sounds like a good way to beat the winter blahs. Photo supplied by Touchmark at Wedgewood

Society providing outreach suffers loss of funding By John Tidridge Her livelihood might very well disappear, but Deborah Miville still exhibits nothing but passion for work she does with seniors in difficult situations and compassion for her clients present and future. Miville, a registered social worker since the late 1990s is executive director of the Seniors Outreach Network Society, which provides services to low-income and isolated seniors residing on Edmonton’s north side. This includes the Westmount, Ingle-

wood, Woodcroft and North Glenora neighbourhoods. “I am so passionate that I find it difficult to contain my words and even more difficult to put them into writing,” she said The Seniors Outreach Network Society works out of an office at 10411427-132 Street, in the old Belair apartment complex. Homey and comfortable, it meets the needs of the visiting clients, but its furnishings show that budget constraints are always on the agenda.

The society evolved out of a drop-in established years ago called the Dew Drop Inn, which was and run entirely by senior volunteers who lived in the nearby Baywood apartment. It now provides outreach services -- a registered social worker will make an in-home visit to a senior upon receiving a referral from the senior, a family member, friend, neighbour, community agency, or other concerned individual. The staff also organizes social programs including a once-a-month hot

lunch and information session at the office, along with crafts, games and exercise. There have also been day trips to the country, picnics at city parks and a Christmas dinner. The society averaged 50 open client files last year and had contact with more than 200 people. The vision of the organization is straightforward: To increase the time seniors can live independently and safely, in their choice of residence. See OUTREACH, Page 8

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Pension changes not needed to ensure plan health: study (Staff) -- Alberta’s largest publicsector pension plans are healthy and on the way to returning to fully funded status, a recent actuarial study has found. The report from actuaries at Vancouver-based George & Bell Consulting indicates that the two biggest plans, the Local Authorities Pension Plan and the Public Service Pension Plan are sustainable and healthy over the long-term without any changes. The George & Bell study was commissioned by a coalition of unions and associations that have members in the plans. Union leaders say it refutes arguments used by the Redford government to justify its plan to roll back pensions covering about 300,000 public-sector workers and pensioners in Alberta. “Despite all heated rhetoric that the government has been using to justify their slash-and-burn plan for pensions, the reality is that there is no crisis,” said Guy Smith, president of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees. “Our pension plans are healthy. In fact, they’re on track to getting even healthier without making any ma-

jor changes.” In the fall, provincial Finance Minister Doug Horner announced that major changes would be made to Alberta’s public-sector pension plans. Legislation to be brought in in the spring of 2014 would allow him to eliminate guaranteed costof-living adjustments and all early retirement incentives for workers. The proposed changes would slash the value of pensions earned by Alberta public-sector workers by 25 per cent or more on benefits earned after January 1, 2016, according to union figures. Horner justified the changes as necessary to ensure the sustainability of Alberta’s pension plans. “Where’s the government’s evidence?” asked Marle Roberts, president of the Alberta Division of the Canadian Union of Public Employees. “We’ve commissioned an independent actuarial study showing that Alberta pension plans are healthy and getting healthier, even without cuts or changes. Why hasn’t the government released its own actuarial study? Could it be that their actuary came to the same conclusion as the actuaries at George & Bell?”

2014 Sage Awards

(Staff) -- An initiative of the Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton, the Sage Awards celebrate the contributions and achievements of older people in the city and surrounding area. It is what community members have done after reaching the age of 60 to help build the city and make our world a better place in which to live, work and play that is being recognized. “By celebrating the role that older adults play, we hope that all members of our community will value and appreciate the contributions of seniors to the wellbeing of our city, province, country and world,” said Sage executive director Roger Laing. “The awards are an opportunity to tell the stories of the amazing accomplishments and contributions of these individuals later in life. Seniors didn’t just build our country -- they continue to build!” Award categories are: Arts and Culture; Community Building; Education; Environment; Health and Wellness; Public and Non-profit; Science and Technology; Sport and Leisure; Social Justice and Peace; and Transportation The names of the award winners will be made public at the Sage Awards Luncheon Celebration, presented by Servus Credit Union, on April 30 at the Sutton Place Hotel. Tickets are $65 and go on sale February 3. For more information go to http://www.mysage.ca/events/awards.

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The George & Bell study concludes that, under the most likely economic scenario and with no major changes to benefits, both the Local Authorities Pension Plan and Public Service Pension Plan will return to fully funded status within nine years. The total costs of the plans are also expected to drop. Costs for the Local Authorities plan will drop to the equivalent of 20 per cent of payroll (split between employers and employees) and costs for the Public Service plan will drop to 16 per cent (also split between employers and employees). In the most pessimistic scenarios, the plans would still dramatically improve their funding status and keep costs under control, without resorting benefit cuts. “These pension plans are the cornerstone of retirement security for hundreds of thousands of Albertans,” declared Gil McGowan, president of the Alberta Federation of Labour. “If the government is going to unilaterally undermine that security, then they had better have a damn good reason. What this study shows is that the government

hasn’t managed to get its facts straight. They’ve failed to make the case for the big rollbacks they’re proposing.” Heather Smith, president of the United Nurses of Alberta, described the government’s planned pension cuts as “unjustified, unfair and reckless.” “In the name of sustainability, they’re actually going to make the plans less sustainable by tying the hands of the people who manage the plans and undermining the confidence of the workers and employers who participate in the plans,” she said. The coalition that commissioned the study includes the Alberta Federation of Labour, the Alberta Fire Fighters Association, the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees, the Amalgamated Transit Union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees, the Health Sciences Association of Alberta, the United Nurses of Alberta and a number of smaller unions. The study was submitted to the finance minister in support of a brief from the coalition opposing the government’s proposal to make major changes to the pension plans.

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4 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Digest

Seniors financial group session

Information about federal and provincial financial benefits, tax credits and programs for low-income households is being provided in a Seniors Financial Education Group session on February 20. Other topics will include enduring power of attorney documents and financial elder abuse risks and safeguards discussed. The session will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Edmonton Southside Primary Care Network, #200, 9808-42 Avenue. For information and to register call 780-395-2626. Program workers moving The government employees who administer the Alberta Seniors Benefit, Seniors Property Tax Deferral and Special Needs Assistance programs are changing departments. Affected are about 100 people working in the Seniors Financial Assistance and Seniors Supplementary Support branches, which will now be part of the Human Services department rather than Health. The aim of the measure is to consolidate financial support programs at Human Services, which administers AISH, income supports and child benefits. The changeover is expected to be complete by the end of the government’s fiscal year, March 31. Swinging at City Hall Live swing, jazz and big band music for dancing is being featured in the City Room at City Hall this month. The free Swing ‘n’ Skate pro-

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gram takes place Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. until February 23. The music is also broadcast directly outside for the enjoyment of ice skaters on City Hall Plaza. Free skate rentals are available on a first come, first serve basis. Seniors and technology Most Canadian aged 68 and older now own a cellphone but only much number of them have a smartphone. According to a report by Media Technology Monitor based on surveys done last year, 61 per cent of these seniors had a cellphone, while 13 per cent used a smartphone, About 12 per cent of those polled had a tablet, most commonly an iPad. Some 17 per cent of the seniors said they sent text messages and 23 per cent said they use social media, of whom about 87 per cent were on Facebook. Age-friendly BC Twenty-six communities throughout British Columbia will receive provincial government Age-friendly BC grants in 2014. The grants will go to support programs aimed at helping older adults to stay mobile, physically active and healthy, with a particular emphasis on elder abuse prevention, dementia care and non-medical home support. Benefits increased Benefit rates for the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) increased on January 1. CPP benefits will increase by 0.9 per cent for those already receiving CPP benefits, Employment and Social Development announced. The maximum CPP retirement benefit for new recipients will increase from $1,012.50 to $1,038.33 per month. Rates are reviewed annually. OAS benefits, which consist of the basic OAS pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) and the Allowances, will increase by 0.1 percent. OAS payments are also based on the CPI, but are reviewed quarterly, in January, April, July and October, and revised as required to reflect increases in the cost of living as measured by

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Can We Help provides financial aid for needs The Edmonton Senior “Can We Help?” feature provides financial help to readers seeking money to meet an unexpected necessity or to satisfy a cherished desire. Write to us if you require a sum of money for a specific, one-time purpose or need, and we may be able to help. “Can We Help?” normally responds to requests of up to $100. Send your requests for financial help to: Can We Help?, Edmonton Senior, #340 Carleton Drive, St. Albert, AB T8N 7L3. Include your address, phone number and full name (only initials will be published). Not all letters can be acknowledged but all will be read and considered.

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the Consumer Price Index. The maximum basic OAS pension will increase from $550.99 to $551.54 per month. For further information see the Employment and Social Development Canada website at www.hrsdc.gc.ca. Family member immigration Applications to allow parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada can once be made following the relaunch of the program aimed at family reunification at the beginning of the year. Applications under the program had been suspended since 2011, while Citizenship and Immigration Canada worked to clear a backlog. The new Parent and Grandparent program will have tighter admission criteria and a cap on applications. For further information see www.cic.gc.ca. Quebec health report In Quebec, 84 per cent of people aged 65 and over not living in an institution reported having a chronic health condition. However, the majority (60%) of seniors in the province consider themselves to be in excellent or very good health when they compare themselves with other people of their age. The information comes from a statistical report by released today by the Quebec Institute of Statistics (Institut de la statistique du Québec). The aim of this report is to document the needs of Québec’s seniors as well as their use of services based on their health status. Canada-Norway agreement A revised agreement on social security between Canada and the Kingdom of Norway has come into force. The agreement help seniors, people with disabilities and survivors to qualify for pensions from Canada and Norway based on their affiliation to each country’s pension system. Periods of residence in Norway after 1936 and prior to 1967 can now be considered for Norwegian pensions granted prior to 1991, so Norwegian pensioners residing in Canada are encouraged to request a pension recalculation if their pension was granted before that date.

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EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 5

ELLA spring classes offer something for everyone By Ann Campbell It’s this time of year that members of Edmonton’s Lifelong Learners Association get as excited as teenagers do when registering for their spring classes. February 10 is the date that men and women of the 50-plus set can sign up on a first-come, first-served basis to take part in this year’s session if they have a 2014 membership in ELLA, as the organization is often known. From April 28 to May 16 the halls will be teeming with keen, friendly and enthusiastic students as the leaves continue to unfold outside the classrooms at the University of Alberta Education Building, No matter what their educational background, they’ve come together to learn, relax, and make new friends. This will be the 13th annual volunteer-run class offering operated by ELLA in partnership with the university’s Faculty of Extension. Once again more than 400 students are expected to register in the 37 classes offered on a diverse group of topics taught by university professors, or experts in specific fields. Those with an interest in photography will be happy that Bob Lamb is returning for the third straight year. Lamb, who holds MA and MEd degrees, found his calling as an educator in Grade 3. His passion saw him spend 54 years educating students about subjects like history, social studies or anthropology at the high school, college, or university level whilst bringing his lectures to life using photographs. Over 20 years, he also became known as an outstanding photography teacher for Metro Continuing Education. In his 2014 ELLA class, participants with a compact camera will learn how to visually design a pic-

ture and the technical skills needed to make their image even better. Then there’ll be time to practice. Lamb believes “the better the photograph, the better the memory” so focussed time will be spent on travel photography and the ideal makeup of photos involving people. Lamb, 77, is looking forward to returning to the ELLA classroom. “It is such fun teaching for ELLA,” he said. “Photography is a wonderful hobby for seniors as it can be done inside or outside. And other than the man who celebrated his 90th birthday while in my class, I’m always the oldest person in the room.” For those interested in other artistic-type pursuits, soap stone carving has been added to this year’s smorgasbord of learning opportunities. It’s offered alongside watercolour, drawing, mixed media, and pen and ink classes, and courses such as History of Jazz, Writing for Magazines, and Modern Opera -- a Walk on the Wild Side. Other new topics will allow participants to gain knowledge, and engage in insightful, stimulating discussion. Classes you may be interested in include: Middle East Politics/Arab Spring(s): Implication for World Peace; The HumanAnimal Bond; Women and Religion; Alberta The Petro State; Men, Masculinity and the Action Film; The Air We Breathe; and Palaeontology: Bringing the Past to Life. These, along with some fitness and computer classes, are but a few of this year’s choices. Volunteers have developed the 2014 program based on input from last year’s participants and the current environment we live in. Maxine Newbold, an Edmonton Public School Board high school social studies teacher for 33 years,

had a hand in coming up with the fine arts and humanities class catalogue. “The courses offered during spring session are so varied and topical it’s like being in university again,” Newbold said. “But there’s something for everyone whether they have ever been to university before or not. “When I retired from teaching, I tried this and that, and was beginning to come away with a somewhat negative view of seniors. Then I discovered ELLA and my perception changed. The people I’ve met at spring session are vibrant, interested and interesting, progressive thinkers, and dynamic lifelong learners.” She added, “Attending classes with other retirees provides me an opportunity to network in a stimulating environment such that I come away thinking of things that never occurred to me before. It is fun to spend time with others who feel a sense of interest and purpose in their lives.” It’s not only the 70-minute classes that keep ELLA members like Newbold coming back as both a participant and a volunteer. Besides the social events, an enticing line up of noon-hour presentations are bound to keep people engaged while enjoying their brought-from-home or take-out lunch. Presentations include The Art of Weather Forecasting, Indigenous

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6 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Opinion

Negotiating downtown Edmonton’s mean streets By Edith Kirby When I was young and working downtown, it was a simpler place. Recently I had to go to the courthouse on Sir Winston Churchill Square. I thought it best to get there early, before 9 a.m. That was my first mistake -- I got caught up in the rush hour. The next thing was finding a place to park. Signs by the parking meters on 97th Street by the courthouse said that during peak periods vehicles will be towed. Sounds like daytime to me; I’ll park somewhere else. I did the circuit of places I’d parked about 10 years ago. All had changed entrances. All had stuff to read, inside – somewhere! At one of those parkades, the little man in the wicket has apparently found another job, as he wasn’t there any more. Inside, I drove around and around, seeking information, or a human who worked there hosing down the floors, but the rush hour crowd followed me. Tired of waving these busy types on, I took my business to another parkade. Same thing! If I asked someone, “Hey, where do I pay,” they’d point somewhere vaguely, while continuing their frantic pace to their jobs. As I’m a sweet little old lady I didn’t “give the finger” to the ones who tried it on me. Then I drove back to 97 Street. Even though it was “peak hours,” I found a spot and deposited enough coin for two or three hours. My courthouse business lasted about 15 minutes. Back at my car, I found I’d made a gift of 1½ hours to some other hapless motorist. The meters don’t give refunds. The City of Edmonton talks a big game about being “senior friendly.” Well, don’t you believe it! Parking meters are too high for shorties to read. The gutters are full of piles of snow slush. You risk your life in a totally in-

human parkade. Most parking facilities grab your money and don’t allow the “next guy” to get any unused time. Info in parkades isn’t easily readable, even if you can find it. I remember a program called Park in the Heart, which provided for free parking on Saturdays. They’ve even taken that from us. Let’s boycott! Next time City Hall has its Seniors Day to “honour” us, leave the cupcakes untouched! *** My mother is gone, but I remember when things were changing too fast for Mom. One of us would go with her to deal with complicated matters. But there seems to be an invisible signal that tells store clerks, government workers and bank employees that we’ve reached the stage where we need looking after – and that we should be “talked at” rather than talked with or, even worse, ignored completely. Twice recently, that happened to me. I once case, during some dealings at the bank, the clerk would explain something, then ask, “Do you understand?” Well! I do declare! Am I wearing a “Stupid Senior” hat? Being a little deaf adds to the dotty senior image. Just recently, I decided to get a new cell phone. I knew I would be unable either to hear the sales pitch or understand the cell phone technology, so I dragged my son into the equation. He understands cell phone talk. Well, you guessed it: the clerk talked only to him. If I wanted to ask something, I felt like a “buttinski.” Couldn’t she have looked my way, occasionally? Oh, I’m forgetting! I wasn’t even there for her. So far, I figure here’s the choice. Bring someone along, or be prepared to smile sweetly, as a senior should, and say yes when they ask “Do you understand?”

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Letters to the Editor

Quebec City holiday was a positive experience

Editor, Quebec and Western Canada hammer one another quite frequently; a mature man of my acquaintance, for example, refused to drive through Quebec. In December I had a Christmas vacation in Quebec City and am happy to say my experience was positive. The Quebecois speak their own version of traditional French and I spoke Franglais. The Quebecois seemed to appreciate an Anglophone attempting their language and that was great. When I visited NB in 1992 the Acadians spoke a somewhat different version of French; and a female Francophone acquaintance raised in St. Vincent, Alberta, spoke yet a different patois. I would recommend a vacation in old Quebec City any time. It’s a beautiful and historic city, and the people are quite distinct. It’s something like I imagine continental Europe to be, or as close to continental Europe as we’re going to get in Canada. The Romance languages are derived from Latin, which now has no native speakers but is still a vibrant language. I studied it briefly in my last year at university in 1975. I regret that I didn’t finish the course, as it would have served me well in learning some common languages of the world. The satisfaction of a task completed and a base on which to build a repertoire of travel experiences would have made my study of Latin worthwhile. The romance tongues are beautiful languages spoken by beautiful people. The French and English traditionally have been at odds. That’s a shame, in my opinion, because both have much to offer the other. Kenna McKinnon

Condo fire shows need for stricter standards

Editor, My fears about the condo fire in the Rutherford neighbourhood in south Edmonton at the end of September 2013 are: No fire safety features like sprinklers were installed in the framing stage. The fire spread to three buildings destroying the complex. Damages are estimated at around $20 million. Wood is classified as a combustible material and can easily catch fire at any stage of construction. Clearly standards are unsafe and do not fully protect Canadians from harm. Requirements must be changed and the safety of Canadians must be the number one priority. A fire in a wood-frame building can be deadly. Although no one was seriously injured this time, our citizens may not be so lucky next time. Paul Trawick

Publisher: Fisal Asiff Editor: Colin Smith Associate Editor: Danielle Higdon Graphic Design: Noreen Hansen Kary Bowen

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

EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 7

Walking guide key to West End rambles Reviewed by R. John Hayes The Wild Rose Ramblers are up and at it again. Following their 2009 guide to walking trails in central Edmonton, the group turned its attention over the last few years to the river valley west of downtown. The result is the Walking Guide for West Edmonton, a useful guide, similar to but improved from the first. This time round, they have identified 26 hikes or rambles in the western part of the city, all but one in the North Saskatchewan River valley or Whitemud Ravine. There are several notable differences from Walking Guide 1. The hikes do not radiate from one central starting point as they did downtown and there is more detail in the maps and variable access points. As well, there are nods toward safety issues and public transit access. Along with that, the strengths of the first book are back again with this one. The walking and hiking suggestions are reasonable, and do cover the best of the area in the city. The focus on the river valley is entirely reasonable because, as they note in the book, “bestloved trails are in sight of water.” Indeed, “the river brings beauty and life to our city” may seem hyperbolic, but most walkers in the city, and I suspect all users of the various trails in this book, would agree that it is also true. The attractive photographs accompanying each trail description present the city and the trails in their best light. Indeed, in the middle of winter as we are, one wants to get out and experience the beautiful city illustrated in the guide, and that surely is a good thing, if it is frustrating to have to wait as February and March grind past. The book begins where the last left off: at the High Level Bridge. The first of the trails is, indeed, essentially downtown, being the Victoria Promenade starting at 114 Street and 99 Avenue, or alternatively on River Valley Road. From there, walking options paper the valley upstream as far as the footbridge connecting Fort Edmonton Park to the Country Club. Seventeen of the 26 hikes concentrate in this approximately 10 kilometres of river valley. Further upstream, the walks are more widely scattered, with only a couple in the valley, and the rest strewn along Whitemud Creek. Oh, and in what can only be described as a curious inclusion, one lone hike along poor old Kirk Lake is tagged on at the end. Kirk Lake is the teardrop-shaped pond abutted on the south by the Yellowhead Freeway and on the west by the Anthony Henday that many see from their cars at 100 km/h. I suspect it was included so as to spotlight its vulnerability to development and, perhaps, to note the damage already done to the riparian environment in that area, while Kinokamau Lake to the east, hemmed in as it is by road and rail and inaccessible to the public is even more damaged. For each of the walks, several of which are subdivided into two, three or four sections, the book contains a useful map. Included for each is also a description of how to find the trailhead, driving directions, distance and difficulty notations, lists of amenities along the trail and nature notes. Most are also accompanied by a mention of some of the city’s rich history. This time round, the maps are somewhat better, with fewer variances in style and orientation. Anyone should be able to find their way using them. Still completely missing, except for a brief note at the front of the book, is information on public transit, and this note even goes so far as to spend

18 of the 29 whole words devoted to the transit system cautioning that it might not work very well. There is no mention of ETS and its access points on the maps. Another oddity is the fact that the numbering starts neither at the northeast nor at the southwest, but in the middle. I know that this is because the group is based at the John Janzen Nature Centre at Fort Edmonton. But that shouldn’t be a major consideration. Users don’t care, and the result is that the book is oddly skewed to start halfway down the valley, which ultimately makes no sense, and could confuse walkers unfamiliar with the city. There are security issues in relation to the several trails near Victoria and  Government House parks, and these should been flagged. Further afield, the general admonishment tin the “Tips and Notes” section is fine, but downtown there can be more than what are rather vaguely described as “unexpected problems.” The “Tips and Notes” also includes mention of other resources, including the valuable neighbourhood walking guides available for much of the city. Getting them, however, will be a bit of a mystery to anyone who hasn’t already found them. In fact, these green pamphlets are available free at Edmonton Public Library branches. Ultimately, these are minor quibbles. The Walking Guide for West Edmonton is a useful and attractive addition to the publications about the city. In this book and the earlier one for central Edmonton their Heart of the City publication combination and the Wild Rose Ramblers and editor Pat Wishart have produced something of considerable value. I hope guides for the north and east will also be forthcoming.

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8 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Out of retirement to new start with seniors’ centre To all readers of my Gifted with Age column: This will be my last column (at least in the foreseeable future). After writing a column on my transition into retirement, I have taken a turn in direction. I was invited to step in as outreach worker at South East Edmonton Seniors Association (SEESA) Activity Centre and I love it! I’m beginning to realize that, as I wrote in a previous column, retirement is a journey of surprises and this has been a very pleasant one. I find my energy level has increased

since I returned to work and I’m enjoying a wonderfully supportive staff and great membership. And, once again, I’m starting to develop new programs, something I’ve always enjoyed doing. I’ve created a program called Chat Room in which I’ll be discussing a variety of topics for seniors. This will including many of the things I’ve written about in these columns, such as motivation and dealing with change. I am facilitating a grief program, open to people dealing with all kinds of losses. I am also working with a

OUTREACH

From Page 1 This is coupled with a mission statement that pledges to provide support, including information, referrals, advocacy and social interaction, to seniors and their families. Further, the organization believes in respecting seniors, that seniors should be free to make their own life choices. Another part of the aim of the organization is to help more and more seniors to age in place. “Living in isolation can mean more than just living alone,” Miville stated. “It might be living

colleague to develop a friendly visitor program that will connect volunteers to isolated seniors through home and telephone visits. In addition, I am facilitating a small group of seniors who meet weekly for an intimate chat and lunch here at SEESA. I will also provide outreach visits to those who are unable to attend the centre. I’ve enjoyed writing this column and I’ve enjoyed the comments you’ve shared with me. For those who wrote to me about your own stories of retirement, I wanted to let you know that I plan to introduce

in a intolerable situation and a ready solution seems out of reach. No matter what the perceived problem; whether it be elder abuse, financial or health concerns, both mental and physical, in fact any thing that might negatively affect a senior, we can help.” She added, “Our services could be likened to that of an insurance broker. We may not provide the services but we know where they are available and how to access them. Lack of adequate funding is an ongoing problem for the society that has recently become

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Carol Kodish-Butt Gifted With Age a program about the psychological transitions of retirement sometime in the next few months. Since I am involved in outreach, the programs I offer are open to all – you don’t have to be a member of SEESA. But I can tell you I’m delighting in finding out all of the wonderful opportunities a seniors centre can provide. So, if I retire again, I look forward to writing once again. But, until then, please feel free to contact me at South East Edmonton Seniors, 780468-1985, Ext. 225 or at carolkb@ seesa.ca. I’d love to meet my readers!

more acute. “Seniors Outreach Network Society recently lost funding from the City, perhaps through a lack of understanding by the committee making the decision to support,” Miville explained. According to her, two types of funding are essential for the continuation of the organization: project funding, for specific projects that have a start and finish date, and sustainable funding, to provide ongoing support for the organization so that projects can be undertaken. “It should be obvious that seniors are here to stay,” said Miville. “So it goes without saying funds are needed to sustain both the operation and the activities it generates.” Currently, other than Miville everyone doing the work of the society is a volunteer. Additional volunteers are needed to do fundraising and keep the website current. This would provide the opportunity for a person or two, not necessarily seniors, who have the expertise and are willing to put it to a good use. “We are currently trying to get the seniors more connected in the community and trying to work with a couple of other groups and then possibly expand,” she said. “It would be to our advantage to advertise, but that costs money we don’t have…” This organization provides a unique service, putting people in touch with other people, not just a telephone number, but a person who can help resolve problems stemming from isolation. It appears to meet specific needs and its loss would be devastating for clients with no place to turn. To reach the Seniors Outreach Network Society call 780-451-4589. Callers may telling hear an announcement providing information about society activities and inviting them to leave a message. Or email outreach@shaw.ca. Office hours: 9:00 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Further information is available at: www.seniorsoutreach.ca.

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EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 9

The lasting love story of a soldier Great Food, and a nurse More Fun.

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to pursue careers and schooling on By Kenna Mary McKinnon During World War II my mother their own, made independent and Jean was a young registered nurse strong by a stern but loving upbringing. during working in London, Ontario. Then in 1967, my parents moved It was here that she met my father at a dance, a tall soldier of Scottish lock, stock and pick-up truck to what origin named Kenneth. MacDonald. would be their retirement home in Her friends had persuaded my non- the Creston Valley in southeastern dancing mother to attend the soiree. British Columbia. My mother nursed My father was at the hall with a for a few years in the Creston Valgroup of sailors. He was in the Ca- ley Hospital while dad worked on the nadian army, so what was he doing fields in the valley and mended farm with sailors? Perhaps he had left the machinery, as he was a handy man with tools and machines. They were barracks on a whim. Soldiers and nurses. How roman- happy there in their house by the tic, in those dim and innocent days side of the road. Both had strokes in before the end of the war. their later years, from Their romance bloswhich they recovered somed, they married, with much hard work and I was born in Octoand rehabilitation. I ber 1944. bought my father a foam Before that event, my football to squeeze with father had been sent his poor right hand to overseas to fight. He build up his strength, was involved in four maas the spring apparajor battles and returned tus given to him by the home scarred by war physiotherapist was memories and malaria. too strong to grip. He The war over, he was constructed a loom discharged, and my from pictures in an enmother came west to cyclopedia and knotted meet him at his farm in the B.C. Peace River The nurse and the soldier: small rugs with his fincountry, where they Patricia Jean MacDonald gers to bring back the Robertson) and muscles in his hands would begin to live (nee Kenneth Ross MacDonald, damaged by the stroke. their dreams. He offered her a small the author’s parents, on When he contracted mixed farm near North their North Rolla, B.C. farm terminal prostate and about 1947. Rolla, with a log house, Submitted bone cancer in 1988 my mother nursed him at and their first car, an Essex. She had me, an old soul of 13 home until he was too ill to continue months, who had welcomed every that way. She walked uphill twice a soldier on the train west with cries day and back to visit him in the Creston Valley Hospital, the same one of “Daddy!” Soon there was my brother, Mur- where she had worked in the past ray Ross, then a year later another and made so many good friends. My father died December 28, 1990. brother, Byron Kirk, and then the youngest and brightest star of our His body was immobilized with fractures and cancer but his eyes with family, my sister Judith Brooks. I remember our parents taking huge effort rolled toward my mother time to walk the edges of their fields at the end. My mother missed my father evtogether in the soft summer evenings, murmuring, making plans and per- ery day of her life thereafter, she but haps reflecting on the war years now learned to be strong and cope on her behind them, while I looked after the own, to her own pride and ours. She turned to her children after that, but brood of children at the house. We all worked hard on the small told me once, “Nobody will ever love farm, riding ponies to school, herd- me as much as your dad did.” My ing cattle, milking cows, feeding the mother lived on alone until her death chickens, tending the gardens, and in August 2006 at the age of 91 in the harvesting crops. We rode ponies Hillcrest Extended Care Centre. They dance again, in the sky to school, shot ducks and grouse for supper, and drove farm trucks and amongst the stars. The four children they left and their grandchildren can tractors before we were 12. When I was 16 and going into gaze on the sparkling meteor of their Grade 12, my parents agreed that love, not extinguished by the pasmom would return to nursing in sage of time or their last breath on Grande Prairie, Alberta, 83 miles this world, where a new generation southeast of Dawson Creek. Their of soldiers arises and young nurses children all left home at a young age still flirt with young men.

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10 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Music played a part in our ancestors’ lives By Denise Daubert The big occasion this month is Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14. Love songs and romantic background music are as much part of Valentine’s Day as are chocolates and roses. The thought of love songs and romantic background music brings up -- on a genealogy level -- the many songs that have been written, performed and enjoyed through the decades. Music was part of our ancestors, lives. When you are writing family stories, researching the music and popular dances of their times can add interesting detail. For those who have ancestors who served in World War I or World War II, there are many songs from both time periods. Are you at a point in your family history research where you are considering putting together a power point presentation? Utilizing music from various decades to match the images on the presentation would indeed add dimension to and personalize it. In family scrapbooks, photocopied or photographed images of music scores or record fronts could add visuals. Ancestors who emigrated from Europe and the British Isles brought their traditional music with them to Canada. Many of our ancestors were musically gifted, as singers or at playing an instrument. Hopefully this musical gift was passed down through the generations in your family tree!

What was popular Music of past decades included ballads, hymns and spirituals, as well as folk, easy-listening, big band, country and classical music, and, of course, rock ‘n roll! The music associated with World War I, which lasted from 1914 to 1918, included songs such as: When The Boys Come Home, Keep the Home Fires Burning and Pack Up Your Troubles. Those living in the second decade of the 1900s would have enjoyed tunes of the day such as Bye Bye, Blackbird or Somebody Stole My Gal and danced foxtrots, waltzes and tangos. Dances were popular with young people, and many met future husbands or wives at these events. During the 1930s, songs heard on the radio or on 78 rpm records on gramophones included the likes of Over The Rainbow, Pennies From Heaven and Puttin’ on the Ritz. Swing dance became popular in the 1930s. The popular music of the 1940s decade includes favourites such as Swinging On A Star, I’m Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover and Chattagnooga Choo Choo. Of course, there are also tunes connected with World War II, such as Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, I’ll Be Seeing You and I Wish I Could Hide in this Letter. In the 1950s, radios and record players were featuring well-known songs such as Unforgettable, Cherry Pink & Apple Blossom White and, of course, the new sounds of rock

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`n roll including hits such as Elvis Presley’s All Shook Up. Teens of the day were learning and perfecting cha-cha, be-bop and jive dance moves. At weddings in the 1950s and 1960s, it was very popular to have a female soloist sing during the ceremony. In the newspaper coverage of the weddings of that era, newspaper reporters included the name of the soloist, what song she performed, and even what she wore that day right to a description of her hat and gloves! Music on the prairies Homesteaders on the prairies lived through long winters and music would brighten up the evenings. These immigrants brought violins (often called “fiddles”), harmonicas, bagpipes, button accordions and banduras (Ukrainian stringed instruments) with them from their home countries. One-room schools were often the site of rural music evenings and dances and families would travel for miles – many by horse and sleigh or Model T -- to join in the fun. Bands were made up from those who brought along instruments and others joined by playing the spoons or clapping to the beat! Children learned songs at school; it was a perfect way to teach children to learn English. There would be an annual Christmas music program and a spring music presentation. If the school had a piano, that was a bonus! Ancestors with musical abilities Did you perchance have a family member who played in a marching band? Marching bands were popular in early Edmonton. The Edmonton Newsboys’ Band (1914 to 1928) and The Edmonton School Boys’ Band (mid 1930s to mid 1950s) were two such groups. Music festivals were also popular in early Edmonton. Attending

musical variety shows and concerts showcasing local and visiting vocalists, instrumental groups and choirs was a popular outing before the introduction of television. Churches often hosted musical concerts on Sunday afternoons. Newspapers carried articles about these concerts – often including great details in the write-ups. If you happen to have an ancestor who was in the Salvation Army, it is likely he or she was a member of one of organization’s brass bands. One of my great uncles served in the Salvation Army between 1922 and 1928 and I have a photograph of him in uniform, holding the baritone he played. Interesting websites If you would like to learn about musical instruments of bygone eras, take a look at the website of the National Museum of Music (University of South Dakota): www.orgs.usd. edu/nmm/index.html. Library and Archives Canada has an online section about sheet music from Canada’s past, www.collectionscanada.gc.ca/sheetmusic/index-e. html. The website of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, www.civilization.ca, may also be of interest. Type the phrase “musical instruments” into the site search box. Genealogy items of note The Popovich Patio Dinner Theatre will be presenting its Roaring 20s Show at Central Lions Seniors, 11113-113 Street, on February 27 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. This live musical theme show will feature famous songs from the early 1900s to the end of the Second World War. Tickets are available by calling: 780-496-7369. Enjoy an evening of the music that was enjoyed in past decades! The Family Tree Trackers genealogy group meets monthTO ASSIST ly at the Strathcona SW seniors who County Library in do not drive to Sherwood Park. Meet DOCTORS, with other genealoCLINICS, gists for a presentaSHOPPING tion, followed by a time to share resources and • Gas reimbursement ideas. Meetings are • Driving time flexible slated for February 13, March 13, April 10, May 8 and June 12 (7 to 8:30 p.m.). Further or email lhhsa@telus.net info. 780-467-6861.

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Health Link Alberta expands nutrition, medication support 24/7 phone line support could help you avoid a trip to the emergency room (Special) – Edmontonians who have nutrition and medication concerns are now able to talk about them to registered dietitians and drug specialists through Health Link Alberta. They are an addition to the registered nurses who now staff Health Link Alberta, telephone service that answers health questions from Albertans 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Health Link Edmonton number is 780-408-5465 and there is a toll-free number, 1-866-408-5465, for the other areas of the province, as well as a separate number in Calgary. Callers with concerns about medications are now connected to information specialists at the Poison and Drug Information Service (PADIS). These individuals can respond to questions beyond the scope of the registered nurses who provide callers with most health advice. Those with complex nutrition questions and concerns will have the option of having a registered dietitian call them back to provide more specialized information and advice. To access the medication or nutrition services, callers can contact Health Link Alberta as usual, speak to a registered nurse about their health concerns and, if required, connect the caller to a PADIS information specialist or make the request to have a dietitian follow up. PADIS medical director Dr. Mark Yarema says the increasing number of prescription medications and alternative therapies such as herbal products means it’s important to help Albertans make informed choices about their use. “Our information specialists at PADIS can answer questions about using medications and herbal products, and the possibility of having an adverse reaction after using them,” he said. “The service is free, confidential and available 24/7. We’re very proud to partner with Health Link Alberta to provide this important service.” Alberta Health Services nutrition services manager Stephanie Mori-

artey says having nutrition support through Health Link Alberta will help Albertans get the resources they need. “We are thrilled to be able to support callers across the province and help more Albertans access dietitians for their complex nutrition questions,” she said. Common nutrition concerns include allergies; supplements; intolerances to certain foods; and infant and toddler eating. Dietitians can provide referral information for local community resources should callers require additional support. “These are both great additions to Health Link Alberta,” said Lara Osterreicher, director of Health Link Alberta operations. “Both medication management and nutrition can significantly impact our overall health. If we can give better access to information and advice in these areas, it will go a long way in improving the health of Albertans and building healthier communities.” More than 950,000 Albertans called Health Link Alberta last year and more than 10 million calls have been received since the service launched in 2000. Of those callers needing medical advice, registered nurses were able to provide selfcare information to almost half of them so they could care for themselves or their loved ones at home. It’s estimated about 350 Albertans avoid a trip to an emergency department every day, thanks to advice they received from Health Link Alberta. “These stats show us what a huge impact Health Link Alberta has on relieving pressure from other parts of the health system and supporting Albertans in getting the right care at the right time by the most appropriate provider,” says Osterreicher. In addition to supplying health advice, Health Link Alberta provides a variety of other services, including helping Albertans find health services, interpreting calls in 120 languages, sending via email health information on infant growth and development to new parents, and developing and approving health content for www.MyHealth. Alberta.ca.

EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 11

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Alzheimer Society calls for dementia partnership funding (CNW) – The Alzheimer Society is calling on the federal government to provide $3 million in start-up funding for a partnership to deal with the growing problem of dementia in Canada. At a January 15 hearing in Toronto, Alzheimer Society of Canada CEO Mimi Lowi-Young requested the funds be allocated in the 2014 federal budget. It is estimated that 747,000 Canadians currently living with dementia, sand if left unchecked, it will affect 1.4 million Canadians by 2031, with economic costs soaring to $293 billion per year by 2040. The $3 million would fund creation of the

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can’t afford to let this opportunity slip by.” Last December health ministers from G8 countries, including Minister Rona Ambrose, agreed upon 12 declarations at the first-ever G8 Summit on Dementia in London, England. Chief among these was that national government must start developing plans to tackle the spiralling human and economic costs of dementia. “2013 was an incredible year for dementia,” said Lowi-Young, who was invited by G8 president David Cameron to attend the conference. “It was gratifying to see our government participate in this summit, which is bringing dementia to a new international level. “We were equally encouraged to see the government renew its commitment to dementia research in the recent federal throne speech, and we’re pleased to be invited by Minister of State for Seniors Alice Wong to make our case.” More information about the Canadian Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Partnership and the Alzheimer Society is available at www.alzheimer.ca.

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HEALTH - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 13

Tax credit eases caregiver financial burdens Consider the Family Caregiver Tax Credit when you file your income tax and benefit return

(NC) – Being a caregiver to a loved one can be a rewarding experience, but it can also bring challenges that require compassion, time, and money. It may also take you away from your job, making the financial challenge even more difficult to manage. If you are tending to a loved one who is dependent on you, consider the Family Caregiver Tax Credit when you file your income tax and benefit return. Introduced in 2011, this tax credit helps ease the financial burden of looking after a loved one

by reducing the amount of tax you have to pay. You may be eligible to claim an additional amount of $2,040 in the calculation of certain non-refundable tax credits. If you are tending to more than one eligible dependent, you can claim the credit for each of them. More information is online at www.cra.gc.ca/familycaregiver – and here’s a snapshot: You may be eligible for the Family Caregiver Tax Credit if you are caring for a dependent who is either: • An individual 18 years of age or older, depen-

Self-administered test helps spot early dementia (Special) -- Researchers say they have developed a self-administered test that can help doctors spot early symptoms of cognitive issues in their patients, like Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Best of all, the test is cheap, self-administered, and can be taken virtually anywhere. Memory disorders researchers visited 45 community events where they asked people to take a simple, self-administered test to screen for early cognitive loss or dementia. Of the 1,047 people who took the simple pen-and-paper test, 28 percent were identified with cognitive impairment The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination, known as the SAGE test, is made up of 22 questions designed to evaluate a person’s orientation; language; reasoning/computation; visual spatial; executive (problem solving) and memory abilities. Missing six or more points on the test usually warrants additional follow-up by a physician, Scharre said. While the test cannot definitely diagnose problems like Alzheimer’s disease, it does allow doctors to screen for any cognitive deficits and to obtain baseline cognitive functioning that could be monitored over time. “We can give them the test periodically and the moment we notice any changes in their cognitive abilities, we can intervene much more rapidly,” he said. The SAGE test could also provide health care providers and caregivers an earlier indication of life-changing events that could lie ahead. Earlier research by Scharre found that four out of five people (80 per cent) with mild thinking and memory (cognitive) issues will be detected by this test, and 95 per cent of people without issues will have normal SAGE scores. Early intervention is considered key to good treatment outcomes, but patients with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, often wait three to four years after their symptoms first appear to seek treatment. “Hopefully, this test will help change those situations,” Scharre concluded. “We are finding better treatments, and we know that patients do much better than if they start the treatments sooner than later.” The test is available at sagetest.osu.edu.

Dr. Douglas Scharre goes over Alzheimer’s test results with a patient. Submitted

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A competition in downhill skiing took place as part of the Edmonton Marigold 55 Plus Recreation Association winter medal tournaments. Submitted

Marigold Seniors holding winter competitions (Staff) -- The Alberta 55 Plus Winter Games year are not taking place in 2014, but members of Edmonton Marigold 55 Plus Recreation Association members are getting a chance to take part in the games activities anyway. Winter medal tournaments are being held in swimming, hockey, duplicate bridge, downhill skiing, carpet bowling, cross country skiing, euchre, pool (snooker), badminton, darts, scrabble, pickleball and table shuffleboard

Anyone fifty-five years of age or older who lives in Edmonton is eligible to participate. All you have to do is take out a $30 association membership. Contact Zone 6 membership director Derry Ingram at ingram10@telus.net or 780-4661731 for more information. Several of the winter medal competitions have already taken place. The ones still to come are listed below. Contact the respective activity coordinator listed in advance of the competition date to register.

Activity Date Venue Euchre Feb. 21 Calder Senior Centre Badminton Feb. 15 Queen Elizabeth High Darts Feb. 8 Kingsway Legion Scrabble Mar. 25 Central Lions Pickleball Various dates Various locations Table Feb. 28 Calder Senior Centre Shuffleboard

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Edmonton Marigold will also be putting on summer medal competitions in May and June. This will be followed by Canada 55-Plus games in Sherwood Park from August 27 to 30. For information about participating contact Pat Covington at 780-488-3676.

HOMES - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 15

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Edmonton Valley Zoo handler with a curious Ferret

Houdini the Cockatoo & Louise

Lily & her foster mom Vanessa Wilson A volunteer from P.A.W.S. for Life with Dorothy a Caran Terrier

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EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 17

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A Volunteer with Wings By Tracey L. Anderson Eventually everyone has a life-changing moment. Marsha Johnston’s moment came in April 2010. She was working— as she had for 34 years—as a systems analyst with the Alberta government when her position was suddenly abolished. Many people would falter after such an event. But not Marsha—she grew a new life from seeds already planted in her old one. Around Christmas 2002, Marsha first heard about Dogs with Wings (DWW), a non-profit organization that trains and provides assistance and guide dogs in Alberta, on Edmonton’s Global TV. Touched by the organization’s mission, Marsha made a monetary donation. A year later, she wrote another cheque and offered to help in any other way she could. Karen Baxter, the organization’s fundraiser at the time, asked Marsha to host their “Safeway: We Care” booth in St. Albert. Marsha happily agreed, and her volunteer career blossomed. Since her government job ended in 2010, Marsha has grown her commitment and contribution to Dogs with Wings. She started small, taking dogs outside to be relieved, but now she’s vital to the Dogs with Wings team. Her favorite DWW role is “puppy cuddler”. Each week, Marsha frolics with energetic, enthusiastic puppies-in-training. Through play—and belly rubs—she helps socialize the dogs to people. Marsha has recently been invited to be a dog training assistant two afternoons a week. While Marsha adores all the

Dogs with Wings animals, she shares an extra-special bond with one dog: Macy, the mother of four litters of DWW puppies. Marsha recalls, “I met her the very first day she arrived. She absolutely adores me, and I her. She knows that if I come to see her, it’s for a while, so she is happy to just sit and get on with the loving.” Marsha frequently hosts Dogs with Wings information booths at events around the city and uses her computer and design abilities to produce posters and programs for the annual gala, held each autumn. Currently Marsha is also putting her computing skills to work to create an inspiring new fundraising project. For 2014, she is designing the first Dogs with Wings calendar, which will feature photos of the organization’s animals. She hopes to have it ready for sale by the middle of October and to market it to vet clinics and pet stores and at the October 19 “The Dogfather” gala at the Enjoy Centre in St. Albert. The calendar is sure to be a big hit with Edmonton dog lovers. Marsha brings special traits to DWW: “love of dogs, my artistic abilities, my heart”. In return, volunteering brings something special to her: “I can actually see the difference the dogs make in people’s lives.” She also cherishes the friendships—human and canine—that she has made over the years. Dogs with Wings is not the only animal charity Marsha assists; she’s also involved with adoption and fundraising events with the Humane Animal Rescue Team (HART), a non-profit organization

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18 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR - HOMES

Moderate growth continues in Edmonton house prices

(CNW) -- The Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast released recently showed year-over-year price increases across all housing types surveyed in Edmonton. Detached bungalows rose 3.7 per cent year-over-year to $344,626 while standard two-storey homes posted a modest increase of 1.9 per cent to $363,075 and condominiums increased 2.2 per cent to $207,270. “Overall pricing in the Edmonton market has seen some moderate appreciation over this time last year,” said Tom Shearer, associate broker and branch manager of Royal LePage Noralta Inc. “The real estate market as a whole has been fairly balanced, with no big swings up or down in the last year.” Shearer suggests that the steady migration of workers into the city is one reason for the balanced nature of the market. While many of those new to the city prefer to access their housing through the rental market, there is a fairly regular contingent that enters the real estate market every year. According to Shearer, sales have slowed down slightly in the winter months, as is usual. However, he pointed out that there was a good amount of activity in the real estate

market in the past quarter even after the city experienced heavy snowfall, which typically dampens sales. “The overall inventory in the fourth quarter of 2013 was a little bit lower than this time last year, which could put some upward pressure on prices into 2014,” added Shearer. Looking ahead, Royal LePage forecasts moderate price appreciation of 3.0 per cent in the Edmonton housing market. Shearer says that the slight increase in average prices will apply to all housing types. “The area’s economy is strong and stable and this steadiness will be mirrored in our housing market.” Nationally, the average price of a home in Canada increased between 1.2 per cent and 3.8 per cent in the fourth quarter. The survey showed year-overyear average price increases in the fourth quarter of 2013 of 3.6 per cent to $418,282 for standard twostorey homes and 3.8 per cent to $380,710 for detached bungalows, while the average price of a standard condominium rose 1.2 per cent to $246,530. Prices are expected to maintain momentum into 2014, with Royal LePage projecting a 3.7 per cent in-

crease nationally from 2013 and a shift to a seller’s market in the first portion of the year in a number of regions. “A few short months ago, the country’s housing market emerged from a year-long correctional cycle of dramatically slowed sales volumes,” said Phil Soper, president and chief executive of Royal LePage. “Later 2013 was marked by a transition to buoyant sales volumes and above average price growth. “In the absence of some calamitous event or material increase in mortgage financing costs, we expect this positive momentum to characterize 2014. In fact, we expect a market tipped decidedly in favour

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of sellers for the first half of the year, after which we project a shift to a more balanced market.” Soper also foresees continued upward pressure on home prices in the move towards the spring market. “In addition to normal demand, housing prices in Canada this year will be influenced by buyers who put off purchase plans in the very soft spring of 2013,” Soper said. “Talk of a ‘soft landing’ for Canada’s real estate market in the new year is misguided. We expect no landing, no slowdown, and no correction in the near-term. Conditions are ripe for as strong a market as we saw in the post-recessionary rebound of the last decade.”

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emotional investing. “The markets change daily and monthly – that’s the reality of investing,” explains Philip Bensen, head of national sales at Franklin Templeton Investments. “Historically, however, markets have risen over the long run, and investors should be cognizant of the power of investing to fund their life goals. “For example, the S&P/TSX Composite Index, the major Canadian stock market indicator, has risen in four of the five years since the 2008 global financial crisis. Investors who were spooked by the market downturn would have missed out on these strong gains.” Bensen has some advice for investors looking to get the most out of their RRSP contributions this year: Don’t blindly follow the crowd. Just because one particular asset class is performing strongly now doesn’t always mean it’s the right choice for you. Consult your advisor before making any decisions. Understand percep-

tion vs. reality. While headline-driven markets can experience periods of volatility, over time, equity markets have historically risen. There’s a lot to be said for taking into account long-term trends and knowing when to see things from a glass-half-full perspective. Avoid too much of one thing. Concentrating your investments in just one or two asset classes, even if deemed “safer” (such as bonds) may have a negative impact on your investments. Diversifying your investments across a variety of asset classes and even parts of the world can help capture different opportunities and manage risk. Emotional investing can get in the way of achieving long-term retirement goals. If you are concerned about what to do or where to invest, it’s important to speak with an investment advisor to gain some insight and make informed decisions. More information is available online at www.franklintempleton.ca.

HOMES - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 19

address to the haggis

The “Celebrate Robert Burns” event was held Sunday, January 19th from noon to 4:00. This event featured Scottish dancers, pipers, and poetry reading. Dr. Raymond Grant presented the “Address to the Haggis”, and also treated visitors to stories and poetry from Robbie Burns. Submitted

All Seniors Care holds fifth games in February Year five and growing. The staff and residents of the 20 All Seniors Care Living Centres retirement residences across Canada are taking part in their annual seniors’ games, February 3 to 7. Thousands of seniors from Edmonton to Ottawa/Gatineau, including Saskatoon, Regina, Brandon, Winnipeg and Stratford, will be walking and Wii-ing, playing bocce, shuffleboard, billiards and board games in an atmosphere of friendly competition. In Edmonton the games will be held at Laurel Heights Retirement Residence, 3110-22 Avenue, Lewis Estates Retirement Residence, 9310-211 Street and Rutherford Heights Retirement Residence, 949 Rutherford Road.

“The games have become an annual showcase of the active and vibrant lifestyle our residents enjoy,” declared Joshua Kohl, senior executive vice-president of operations for All Seniors Care. “Our entire company is proud to provide this annual weeklong event for seniors to stay active in a friendly and caring social setting.” All events are being held indoors, with will get underway at around 10:30 a.m. Each day there are different competitions, an awards ceremony, food and special guests. The competitions will take place as follows: Day 1, Walking The Hallways; Day 2, Wii Bowling; Day 3, Billiards and Bocce; Day 4, Wii Golf and Shuffleboard; Day 5, Card and Board Games. Last years, bocce gold medallist, Lloyd Brown

of Winnipeg, turned 100 a few days after the games and will be defending his medal at almost 100 years of age. Four other participants at this year’s games will be celebrating 100th birthdays. Yvette Gauthier and Dora Cright of Residences de la Gappe in Gatineau will turn 100 in May, while Marie-rose Aline Lontin from Chateau Symmes in Aylmer and Clara Fahlman from College Park in Regina will be centenarian athletes in February. They will all be recognized for this special accomplishment during the games by a special toast, given by the chef de mission. Further information is available at www.allseniorscare.com.

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20 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR - HOMES

Retirement saving top financial priority in 2014: poll (Special) – Saving is for retirement is the top financial priority for Canadians, according to a recent RBC poll. Results of the 24th annual RBC RRSP Poll indicate that more than half of Canadians (52 per cent) are now focusing on increasing their retirement savings, with 48 per cent placing a priority on debt reduction. That compares with 44 per cent and 54 per cent respectively in last year’s poll. This reversal of financial priorities is even more marked among middle-aged Canadians – those 35 to 54 years old – with almost two-thirds (62 per cent versus 52 per cent last year) focus-

ing on saving for retirement ahead of reducing debt (52 per cent versus 56 per cent). “These findings indicate Canadians are more comfortable with how they are managing their debt and this is allowing them to focus more strongly on retirement savings this year,” declared Bill Hill, national retirement planning consultant, RBC. “To help ensure those savings will support the retirement they have in mind, we recommend they review their lifestyle and financial goals with a financial advisor as early as possible.” The annual RBC poll also found that RRSP ownership among those aged 35 to 54 has jumped

to 68 per cent from last year’s 58 per cent. In addition, 26 per cent of middle-aged Canadians have determined they will need to save, on average, $545,000 for a comfortable retirement. “This is the age group that needs to be planning now for the lifestyle they want to have in retirement,” Hill emphasized. “As Canadians who have already retired know, there is so much more to your retirement years than just the money you think you’ll need. This is a good time to sit down with a financial advisor to explore all aspects of a successful retirement – you may well find you have more options than you are aware of today.”

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HOMES - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 21

What not to get your beloved for Valentine’s Day By Jerry Stefanyk Yes, I know that Christmas is barely over and maybe you think it’s too early to worry about what to get your loved one’ for Valentine’s Day. You’d be wrong. Guys should be thinking 364 days of the year as to what to get a loved one for Valentine’s Day. This is a gift that could have serious repercussions later on in the year or in the relationship if insufficient thought has not gone into its purchase at this time. I can’t tell you what to buy, but I can give you some tips on what not to buy. Do not buy chocolates. Most of those love those little brown or white morsels of goodness, but it’s still a bad idea. You could get the wrong kind, but worse, you could get the right kind. Then if your goddess devours them all, you are on the hook all that time she had to spend in the gym sweating off the excess poundage you created by giving her chocolate. As for small appliances, think about this one. If you need a particular tool or piece of equipment, do you wait in the hopes your loved one will give you one for Valentine’s

Day? If she needs a small appliance, she will go out and buy it for herself. If you really think she needs one, and you go ahead and buy it, you may end up wearing it or having it as part of your anatomy. Remember, an iron can do a lot of damage administered in the right places. Especially if the iron is hot. Now, if it is a large appliance connected to a house or garage, you may be on the right track. You can’t go wrong with expensive perfume, can you? Yes you can. Each of those lovely ladies out there has their own personal preference on scents and even if you know what that preference is, you may over buy (large economy-size containers are a no no), and a small container may make you look like a cheap-skate. Flowers can override anything. Not so fast. Yes, when you buy your lovely lady flowers – especially roses – it is a declaration of love, but at the same time, she get

her to thinking, “What has he done that he is giving me flowers? What is he guilty of? Stay away from flowers during Valentine’s Day and anniversaries as well. Use only as a last resort when you really are guilty of something. And then go to extremes purchasing a huge amount – like maybe the whole flower shop. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Yes, but that diamond better be the size of a hazelnut or better. Otherwise, if the diamond doesn’t have enough heft, the lady in question may wonder “Doesn’t he think I am worth a bigger one?” This is another area where size does matter, regardless of what you may have heard. How about a gift certificate? A gift certificate is wrong on so many levels. First of all, it narrows your lady love’s purchasing power to one locale. Do you really want to do that? Do you really know her that well? What if she had an unfortunate incident in a shop (like the incident poor Oprah was subject to).

Do you really want to subject her to that type of stress? Then there is clothing. One only purchases clothing for a loved one once in a relationship. And, depending on the strength of the relationship, it could be the last purchase. Again, how well do you know your lady love? Do you know her colors? Do you know her size? Do you know her style? Remember the trick question – “Honey, does this make me look fat?” Stay away from clothing – particularly lingerie. First of all, a man purchases lingerie for himself – not that he is going to wear it, but you get the idea. One method for figuring out what to get your special one for Valentines Day, although sneaky, is to call her best friend and see if you can get some info from her. Be careful, though, be sure this is really a “best friend.” If it isn’t, you are opening yourself to a world of hurt. So what can you purchase for the ‘love of your life’? There are probably countless other things you can purchase. If you find out what they are, please let the rest of us know.

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By Bob Parsons ~ On the Wing During a recent meeting of the local nature club, one of the attendees remarked that there seem to be few snowy owls in our area this winter. Many readers here will know that I frequently mention owls in my articles, as they are a very interesting group of birds. Christmas bird count results usually turn up a few of these white owls but checking the recent reports it would seem that the snowy owl is indeed notable for its absence this winter. There have only been one or two sighted in St Albert and a few seen migrating through the Fort Saskatchewan area. My friend Ben Velner phoned from Medicine Hat and told me that none were seen on the Manyberries count, which is highly unusual. Even reports from Calgary are few and far between, so I thought I would do some research and try and find out where they are this winter. Doing a Google search, it did not take long for me to discover some very interesting facts. There seem to many snowy owls on the east coast, with one even spotted in Bermuda!

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Logan Airport in Boston always appears to be an over-wintering hotspot and local banders have been quite busy there over the years. Obviously birds, especially flocking birds, are not welcome at any airport. Snowy owls do not flock but they could cause immense damage if sucked into an aircrafts engine. The answer is to catch them, band them and then relocate them far away from any airport. Owls are banded and colour marked to aid in determining where they go and to see if they will return to the place where they were banded. It has long been that many owls venture south from the Arctic during the winter in search of food. But researchers have noticed that when owls are abundant most of them are in very good condition. The big numbers might indicate a good breeding year up north and this is usually tied to a good lemmings year whereby food is plentiful. Do some of the owls that come south die? It can be tough to survive to adulthood, especially when the birds have to deal with local automobile traffic, electrical wiring, power poles even rodenticide poison. Not every owl is the greatest hunter out there so naturally starvation can be a problem. Over the years banders here in Edmonton have found a few snowy owls to be in poor shape but a visit to the local wildlife rehab clinic will help them along! Another question I have often wondered about is how to tell males from females? I have always been under the impression that males are completely white while females and juveniles are streaked with gray. Apparently this is not necessarily the case, as a researcher in Russia has photos of snowy owls that are almost white overall and have been sexed in hand as breeding females. New discovery here, readers! One thought I’ve had is that maybe something is happening in the Arctic with climate change that is causing these population fluctuations. I am sure that some folks are researching this at the moment so it will be of interest to keep an eye on future research papers. One final owling note. One of the first snowy owls to show up in Massachusetts this current winter had a wing tag A75. It was a hatch year male banded November 2012 by a birder north of Saskatoon. Small world, isn’t it? *** Mark your calendar for this year’s Snow Goose Chase. The dates are April 26 and 27. The cost is $42 and you can book through the website, www.snowgoosechase.ca, or call Donna Bamber at 780-963-5469.

HOMES - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 23

Coffee Break Truffes au Chocolat Tailor-made for Valentine’s Day indulgence Valentine’s Day is known for many things. Youngsters associate the day with exchanging homemade valentines with their classmates, while couples look at the day as an annual opportunity to express their feelings for their partners, often over a nice dinner. But no Valentine’s Day is complete without sweets. On Valentine’s Day, healthy eating often takes a backseat to indulging in various confections, as seemingly everyone finds a way to enjoy a special treat on February 14. Those who want to experience how Parisians might indulge their sweet tooths on Valentine’s Day can try the following recipe for “Truffes au Chocolat” from Sarah Woodward’s “The Food of France” (Kyle Books). Makes 20 to 24 truffles • 1 cup heavy cream • 2 tablespoons super fine sugar • 1 tablespoon Cointreau or Armagnac (optional) good quality cocoa powder • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter • Scant 1/2 pound dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa solids Scald the cream with the sugar by just bringing to the boil and then removing from the heat immediately. Whisk in the chocolate piece by piece until you have a smooth emulsion. Allow to cool slightly then whisk in the butter, again in pieces, followed by the alcohol if you are using it. Chill the mixture in the freezer 20 minutes. Now stir the mixture well and, using either two teaspoons if you are dexterous or your fingers if you don’t mind getting messy, fashion the truffles into small balls. Place on parchment paper or foil on a baking sheet and put in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or so. Roll well in the cocoa powder and leave in the refrigerator at least overnight before serving.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Int’l. language specialist’s org. 6. Filament container 10. Amounts of time 14. Double curves 15. Clumsiness 17. Incapable of compromise 19. Mekong River people 20. Chinese broadsword 21. Rescue squad 22. Cablegram (abbr.) 23. Mold-ripened French cheese 25. Don’t know when yet 27. Rivulet 30. Wild Himalayan goat 32. Astronaut’s OJ 33. Scientific workplace 35. Xenophane’s colony 36. Exchange 38. Semitic fertility god 39. Chit 40. Sylvia Fine’s spouse Danny 41. Sole 42. Benne plant 44. Small amount 45. Sodas 46. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.) 48. UC Berkeley 49. Express pleasure 50. __ Paulo, city 53. History channel’s #5 show 59. Divertimento 60. Ridge on Doric column 61. Pastries 62. The “It” Girl 63. Hand drum of No. India CLUES DOWN 1. Labor 2. North-central Indian city 3. About aviation 4. The sheltered side

5. Salem State College 6. Twofold 7. Unusually (Scot.) 8. Floral garland 9. Birthplace (abbr.) 10. Tooth covering 11. Confederate soldiers 12. Signing 13. Point midway between S and SE 16. Ground where each golf hole begins 18. A lyric poem with complex stanza forms 22. Atomic #73 23. Thin wire nail 24. Ancient Germanic alphabet character 25. Jupiter’s 4th satellite 26. Woman’s undergarment 28. African antelope 29. Afrikaans 30. Vietnamese offensive 31. Expression of sorrow or pity 32. Scot word for toe 34. Journalist Nellie 36. Compress 37. Whiskies 38. Feathery scarf 40. White clay for porcelain 43. Keeps in reserve 44. Infectious lung disease 46. Draws off 47. Chinese chess piece 48. Parrot’s nostril opening 49. Once more 50. One from Serbia 51. Fleshy, bright seed appendage 52. Plural of os 53. The horned viper 54. Japanese apricot tree 55. Taxi 56. Bustle 57. Feline 58. Malaysian Isthmus

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24 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Leisure

ON THE TOWN

Compiled by Denise Daubert

ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Muttart Conservatory Feature Pyramid Display – January 11 to March 2 Lunar New Year This spectacular show features azaleas, cyclamens, bromeliads, celosias and cymbidium orchids amongst lanterns and replicas of figures from China`s famous Terracotta Army. 9626-96A Street. Ph. 311 from inside Edmonton or 780-442-5311 from outside Edmonton. West Edmonton Mall 55+ Senior Social – February 5 Phase I in front of Target. Featuring a Talent Showcase on centre stage. Ph. 780444-5321. 34th Annual RV Show – February 6 to 9 See the newest RV models. Edmonton EXPO Centre, Edmonton Northlands. Ph. 780-471-7210. Canadian Birkebeiner CrossCountry Ski Festival – February 7 and 8 This cross country ski event honours the spirit of the Norwegian

Birkebeiner legend. Five events and distances at three venues: Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Recreation Area and Elk Island National Park. Ph. 780-430-7153. 24th Annual Silver Skate Festival & Winter Celebration – February 14 to 23 Venue for this festival is Hawrelak Park; ETS shuttle service is available. This festival is rooted in the Dutch tradition of a love of the outdoors. Sports events encompass The Edmonton Winter Triathalon, long blade skate races and Dutch long blade sprint races. Activities include snow sculpting, horse drawn sleigh rides, evening fire sculptures on specific dates plus a Nightworks in the Park multimedia extravaganza. Ph. 780-488-1960. 2014 Family Day Events – February 17 Downtown at the Legislature is the Winterfete at the Legislature event from noon to 4 p.m. Both indoor and outdoor activities including wagon rides and skating. Free to attend. Ph. 780-4277362. In the west end between noon

and 4 p.m., the Valley Zoo will host a family winter fun event. Indoor and outdoor activities. Regular admission rates apply. Noon to 4 p.m. Ph. 311 from inside Edmonton and 780-442-5311 from outside Edmonton. Sherwood Park/Strathcona County SUN Chapter Meeting – February 18 Topic: Elder Abuse: Financial Awareness with guest speaker Caroline Ventura of Strathcona County Family & Community Services. 1:30 p.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church (298 Bethel Drive, Sherwood Park). Ph. 780-464-2288. Seniors Dance and Social – February 20 Dance, socialize or just enjoy the music; partners and singles welcome. 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. Edmonton and District Historical Society Monthly Speaker Series – February 25 The society welcomes members and the general public to their monthly speaker series; free to attend. Topic: Biography of Chester Ronning Guest speaker will be Dr. Brian Evans. Queen Alexandra School gymnasium, 7730-106 Street. 7:30 p.m. Ph. 780-439-2797. City Market Downtown at City Hall – Ongoing Saturdays from October 26 to May 11 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ph. 780-429-5713. Old Strathcona Farmer’s Market – Ongoing Saturdays Indoor market offering produce, baking and crafts on display and for sale. Hours: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. indoors at 10330-84 Avenue. Ph. 780-439-1844. GARC Senior Skate – Ongoing Mondays between October and April Seniors’ skating between 1:45 and 2:45 p.m. at the Glen Allen Recreation Centre in Sherwood Park. Ph. 780-992-2730. SUN St. Albert Chapter Monthly Meetings – 4th Monday Monthly Meetings start at 1:30 p.m. and feature guest speakers. St. Albert Legion (Tache Street in St. Albert). Ph. 780-907-7618. Meals on Wheels Lunch n’ Learn Sessions – First Tuesday of Each Month Sessions are held from 12 p.m. to 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.

IN CONCERT Full Moon Folk Club – February 7 Madison Violet February 12 Dala 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-OnThe-Square (780-420-1757) or at the door.

Festival Place – February 7 Juan Martin (world music; flamenco guitar). February 7 Pharis and Jason Romero (country). February 8 Blackie & The Rodeo Kings (blues). February 15 J. P. Cormier (singersongwriter). February 20 Women of Folkways Hosted by Maria Dunn (folk). February 22 Allen Toussaint (blues). February 21 Monkey Junk (blues). All concerts at 7:30 p.m. 100 Festival Way, Sherwood Park. Box office: 780-449-3378. Edmonton Symphony Orchestra – February 7 & 8 Life is A Cabaret! 8 p.m. both dates. February 15 & 16 Warner Bros. Presents Bugs Bunny at the Symphony II 7 p.m. on February 15 and 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on February 16. February 21 & 22 Beethoven’s Pastorale Symphony 7:30 p.m. on February 21 and 8 p.m. on February 22. February 27 Music by Gershwin 8 p.m. March 2 Violin & Horn 2 p.m. All concerts at the Winspear Centre. Box office: 780428-1414. Arden Theatre – February 8 California Guitar Trio & Montreal Guitar Trio February 14 Turtle Island Quartet: The Art of the Groove February 22 Storytellers Four artists join in concert to articulate insightful experiences through song. February 28 Chic Garmine and Oh My Darling All performances at 7:30 p.m. on date listed. 5 St. Anne Street, St. Albert. Box office: 780-459-1542. Alberta Baroque Ensemble – February 9 Concertos in a Grand Tradition 3 p.m., Robertson-Wesley United Church, 10209-123 Street. Tickets at the door or at TIX-OnThe-Square 780-420-1757. Pro Coro Canada – February 9 Canadian Connections II Pro Coro Canada hosts the Elmer Iseler Singers of Toronto. 2:30 p.m. All Saints Anglican Cathedral, downtown. Tickets: 780-428-1414. Edmonton Recital Society – February 12 Main Series 3: Benjamin Butterfield (tenor) and Peter Dala (piano). 7:30 p.m. Muttart Hall, Alberta College Conservatory of Music, 10050 MacDonald Drive. TIX-On-The-Square 780-420-1757. Northern Light Folk Club – February 15 Jack Semple March 1 Cabot`s Crossing Both concerts at 8 p.m. at Queen Alexandra Community Hall 10425 University Avenue). Tickets from TIX-On-TheSquare (780-420-1757), at Acoustic Music and also at Myhre’s Music. Maclab Theatre – February 21 Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute Band 8 p.m. Maclab Theatre is located in Leduc at 430550 Street. TIX-On-The-Square 780420-1757. Shell Theatre at DOW Centre – February 21 Sass Jordan (acoustics). 7:30 p.m. The DOW Centre is located at 8700-84 Street in Fort Saskatchewan. Tickets: 780992-6400 or 1-888-655-9090.

leisure - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 25 I Coristi Chamber Choir – February 22 Voices 7:30 p.m., Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 1003784 Avenue. TIX-On-The-Square 789-420-1757. Horizon Stage – February 23 Hotel California: The Original Eagles Tribute Band 7:30 p.m. Horizon Stage is located at 1001 Calahoo Road in Spruce Grove. Tickets: 780-962-8995 or 1-888655-9090. Beaver Regional Arts Society Concert – February 23 Troubadours: Duane Steele, Jake Mathews, Sean Hogan and Tim Hus 2 p.m. show. A dinner is available following the show. Venue is at 5019-50 Street in Holden. Ph. 780-688-2126 MacEwan University – February 26 Faculty Performance 7:30 p.m., Centre for the Arts and Communication, 10045-156 Street. TIX-On-TheSquare 780-420-1757.

THEATRE Citadel Theatre – January 25 to February 16 Clybourne Park February 5 to 23 Do You Want What I Have Got? A Craigslist Cantata 9828101A Avenue. Box office: 780-425-1820. Shadow Theatre – January 29 to February 16 Marie Antoinette: The Color of Flesh Matinee and evening performances. Venue is in Old Strathcona at 10329-83 Avenue. TIX-On-TheSquare, 780-420-1757. Mayfield Dinner Theatre – Ends February 2 The History of Rock ‘n Roll: Stars & Stripes February 11 to April 6 Death Trap Mayfield Inn & Suites, 166 St. and 109 Ave. Tickets: 780483-4051. MacEwan University – February 5 to 10 Young Frankenstein 7:30 p.m. performances at the John L. Haar Theatre, Centre for the Arts & Communication, 10045-156 Street. TIX-On-TheSquare 780-420-1757. Walterdale Theatre – February 5 to 15 Blithe Spirit 10322 83 Ave. in Old Strathcona. TIX-OnThe-Square: 780-420-1757.

St. Albert Theatre Troupe – February 1315, 20-22, 27 and 28 and March 1 Same Time Next Year This is a dinner theatre presentation. Venue is Kinsmen Hall, 47 Riel Drive, St. Albert. Ph. 780-222-0102.

MUSEUMS AND ART EXHIBITS Gallery at 501 Exhibition – January 10 to February 16 Beatnik Generation A selection of artworks that were created in the 1950s and 1960s. There will also be Beatnik cafe and poetry readings. February 21 to March 9 501 Members Show & Sale Group exhibit of artworks. 501 Festival Avenue in Sherwood Park. Ph. 780410-8585. Jeff Allen Art Gallery – January 31 to February 26 Hillview Artists in Harmony An exhibit by this group of artists showcasing paintings featuring the technique of Chinese brush painting. February 28 to March 26 Captured Moments An exhibit of oils and acrylics by artist Sharon Vanderwolf from Sangudo, Alberta. Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Strathcona Place Senior Centre, 10831 University Avenue. Ph. 780-433-5807.

Art Gallery of Alberta – Ends February 17 CHAGALL: Daphnis & Chloe February 1 to April 27 Lyndal Osborne: Bowerbird, Life As Art 2 Sir Winston Churchill Sq. Ph. 780-422-6223. Royal Alberta Museum – Ends February 23 Seeds in Disguise: The Biology and Lore of Ornamental Seeds Ends March 16 Species At Risk Ends April 27 Chop Suey on The Prairies 12845-102 Avenue. Ph. 780-453-9100.

DANCE Alberta Ballet – February 14 and 15 Ailey II This guest company’s first visit to Alberta. 7:30 p.m. both dates. Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. Box office: 780-428-6839. Brian Webb Dance Company – February 28 and March 1 Prairie Dance Circuit 8 p.m. both dates. Timm’s Centre for the Arts. TIX-On-TheSquare 780-420-1757.

Art Society of Strathcona County Exhibit – Saturdays and Sundays Between February 1 and 23 An exhibit entitled Our Passion – Two Artists Who Share the Same Obsession. Works by two local artists: Joyce Boyer and Elaine Tweedy. Noon to 4 p.m. Loft Gallery, A.J. Ottewell Centre, 590 Broadmoor Blvd. in Sherwood Park. Ph. 780449-4443. Art Gallery of St. Albert Exhibit – February 6 to March 1 At Odds This exhibition of intriguing works is rich with symbolism and explores personal narratives. Banque d`Hochelaga Building at 19 Perron Street, St. Albert. Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours to 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Ph. 780460-4310.

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Travel

Cruisin’ the Islands, Aloha style By Sheree Zielke You’ve cruised before. You have visited the Hawaiian Islands before. But you have ever combined the two? Consider adding this highly relaxing combo to your bucket list. My husband, David, and I recently cruised out of Los Angeles onboard the Star Princess for a 15-day trip that included four Hawaiian ports, a stop in Mexico, and 10 sea days. In the past we have tended to explore Hawaii by car, so we were a little fearful that the cruise would disappoint. What a surprise! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and did not feel short-changed by limited time on the islands. Why Hawaii for a cruise? Exploring the ports of call is great! There is so much to do and see on Oahu, Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. Book a snorkel excursion near Captain Cook’s monument out of Kona, visit a pineapple plantation on Oahu, join a whale watch off Lahaina, visit the famous Fern Grotto on Kauai, spend a day on the beach, or explore the port towns on foot and enjoy the sunshine. Normally, you would have to fly inter-island air should you want to see more than one island in a single visit, but your cruise ship will get you to them with great ease. Yes, sometimes weather gets in the way of port visits, but the captain tries to provide as much island time as possible. Our latest cruise missed Lahaina, Maui due to unforeseen events, but the captain added Kona,

on the Big Island, at the end of our visit. There are people who worry about being bored during multiple days at sea, but we never met a bored passenger. Even the least self-motivated found something to do. Go Hawaiian! You can make Hawaiian leis with real orchids, learn to hula dance or take Ukulele (that’s, oo-koo-lay-leh) lessons. Where else can you learn a new musical instrument in only two weeks? We met one woman who had taken her first shipboard lesson five years back and now plays professionally. Other options? Catch a quartet in one of the bars, try your luck at a music trivia game, take a dance class, watch a movie on the outside deck under the stars, sunbathe, read a book, browse the net, visit the spa, hit some golf balls, learn how to better use your digital camera during an edutainment lecture, take in a musical stage show, watch a magician, or just stand out on the deck and let the sea breeze blow through your hair. You will be stunned at how quickly the time passes. You can also sleep well into the morning in your cabin and order room service (which is included in your ticket). This is your chance for total relaxation. Let somebody else do the cooking, the cleaning, the chauffeuring, even the laundry (if you desire). A big advantage of cruising is that you unpack only once. Your hotel goes with you. Leave all the heavy

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David and his ukulele teacher aboard the Star Princess. Photo by Sheree Zielke

baggage behind when you visit the islands. A clinic, medical personnel, spa attendants, gym coaches, nutritionists, a variety of restaurants and shops, and your own bed float around with you, too. Yes, it’s true -- one can eat 24 hours a day on a cruise ship. Eat privately in your room or visit one of the ship’s specialty restaurants. Modern “anytime dining” has taken the pressure off those who do not care to share a table with strangers according to a set schedule. With all that opportunity for eating, you want to take advantage of some of the opportunities for exercise. Walk or jog around the outside deck and enjoy the ocean breezes, take the morning Zumba classes, visit the gym, or climb up and down the ship’s many staircases. Just getting back and forth to the buffet several times a day is sure to burn a few calories. The Aloha ‘Oe wrap-up stage event featuring passengers in a ukulele orchestra and as hula dancers, lacks the usual tacky tourist kitschy feel, and is instead heartfelt and genuine. The activities, the port talks, the deck musicians, the enrichment events, the how-to lessons, all contribute to that magical Aloha spirit that most of us seek. You won’t want to leave the ship after 15 days of non-stop Hawaiian life. Suggestion? Buy a ukulele and keep those memories alive. Cruising tips Choose a room with a balcony. The benefits are worth the extra fee. Stepping out into the tropical air in the middle of the night can be magical. Most of your cruise, including a good view of the ports and the Hawaiian sunsets and sunrises, can be seen from the privacy of your own balcony. You might even see a humpback whale or a school of dolphins riding the surf. Bring an electrical power bar. There are limited power outlets in your stateroom. Remember all your chargers: smart phone, tablet, ebook reader, camera, etc. If you make an impromptu decision while off the ship to go snorkelling or sunbathing, you can buy or rent everything you need right at

the beach, including swimming suits (even plus sizes), hats, sunscreen and towels, along with lounge chairs. Disabilities? On cruises we have met many people with special needs, including those who were blind and the paraplegic. During most shore excursions, the needs of disabled people will be met. To avoid seasickness, wear your sea bands right from the start. These elastic wristbands with plastic buttons can be purchased at any drug store. Putting them on too late is why most people get seasick. Don’t forget them when you tender ashore because tender boat rides can be very bumpy and nauseating. Digestive upsets during your cruise are a real possibility. Bring along some over-the-counter medicine (buying onboard can be expensive). Multi-symptom relief Imodium tablets could prove a godsend. If you have a very sensitive stomach, drink only bottled water when onshore, too. Go with the flow, so to speak, and gracefully accept changes in the ship’s itinerary. Water and weather conditions can often create disappointment. But if you enjoy the journey, you will not be put off by missed ports of call or changes in arrival or departure times. David’s tip for the frugal: If you don’t want arbitrary (per person) daily gratuities charged to your shipboard account, go to the Passenger Services desk and ask that these be stopped. At the end of the cruise, pay your room steward whatever amount you deem suitable. California time Before your Hawaii cruise, spending time in California can be a great add-on. Fly into a western port like Los Angeles or San Francisco early. Rent a car and tour the gorgeous Pacific Coast Highway before boarding your ship, or stay in Anaheim and be a kid for a few days while visiting the Disneyland parks. Discounted three-day “Park Hopper” passes can be bought at your local AMA before travelling. After the cruise, take another couple of days and visit the L.A. beaches, especially the Santa Monica pier with its famous Route 66 trail’s end sign.

travel - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 27

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By Jane Milburn I’ve found myself in a bit of paradise. I’m not completely sure how, but I am happy to let you all into my secret. It is the Costa Baja Resort, located on the southern half of the Baja Peninsula, near the city of La Paz. Many Canadians have “discovered” the resort community of Cabo San Lucas, at the southern tip of the peninsula, but La Paz, which is on its west side, is less familiar. However it is easy to reach on Westjet and relatively cheap to fly there. I arrived at the Costa Baja Resort at night. Having just jetted out of snowstorm and -30 temperatures, I was intrigued to find the foyer was completely open to the elements and a huge back wall was not glassed in as I had thought, but was a balcony, vaulted over a vision pool. The view stretched endlessly, to a wide starlit bay, fringed by twinkling city lights. By day, what meets the eye are gorgeous beaches of the magnificent Sea of Cortez. I returned to earth with a bit of a bump on looking at the hotel tariff, but paradise does not come easy or cheap. It took me a few days to realize the extent of Costa Baja Resort project. The architects must have had a ball, as they seem to have been let go to indulge their every fancy. There are vaulted rock walled theatres; housing complexes tumbling down the mountains sides; and intimate shopping parades nestling next to the luxury marinas. The Hyatt business hotel, in regulation modern style, looks a bit severe, next to the warm Mexican abode-type buildings. The outdoor restaurant/bar is located on a white, white beach. From this vantage point you can observe the sun worshippers, while sheltered under a rattan-roofed cabana and enjoying a large cool ice laden drink. This is golfer’s heaven. Gary Player designed the signature golf course that “challenges all levels of player.” I would be challenged to keep my eye on the ball and not be distracted by the sight of multi-million dollar yachts gliding into the marina. See BEACH RESORT, Page 28

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beach resort From Page 27 The rich and famous come to play in the Baja and use this point as a convenient harbour from which to explore the islands and observe the sea life that abounds in the safe, warm waters. Whales arrive and nurse their babies. Dolphins and flying fish frolic in and out of the waves. Pelicans work the sea and circling vultures pick up any remains. If you need therapy the hotel spa is state of the art and uses organic oils to pamper you. You can be wrapped in herbs and coiffured and pedicured, while your husband refuels the yacht. This beautiful site has been developed to be as “eco-friendly” as possible. Water is pumped from the ocean and desalinated to provide for guests and plants alike. Should you wish have your own piece of Costa Brava’s paradise, you can buy here, whether a house or a condominium or a fraction thereof. You even can even start from square one at the bottom and buy a piece of land and design your own unit to fit your purse. You can be part of the larger community by heading down the road to La Paz. La Paz is a dear little town (population about 220,000) and safe. I wandered up and down the Malecon, the waterfront promenade, and while I had to be careful because of the condition of the sidewalk, the only person to accost me was a friendly American He told me that all sorts of English-speaking folks gathered at the marina at the Club Cruceros de la Paz. This confirmed the information I was given by ‘Super Gina” who was

manning an art gallery. She had told me that from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. all sorts of people gathered at the marina, to drink coffee and exchange news, and they would welcome me as a friend or as a renter, or even as a hand at cards. So for 100 pesos you get a social life, and can find rental properties and even radio people on the boats. La Paz is full of Canadians and Americans, along with Mexicans going about their business. The first place you bump into on the way into La Paz is a giant Costco. The city also has a Sears and cute little shops as well as high quality restaurants that grill meats and swordfish on mesquite wood to achieve the correct bouquet! Canadians often worry about their healthcare but if you can get used to trusting a foreign doctor, you get very good care by going to a doctor, who will give you a diagnosis and a prescription at a low cost. If you should want to buy here, I found a realtor who English-speaking realtor. Gordon G. Herpst has lived in the district forever and knows all the ins and outs of buying property in the Baja. His email is omnilapz@gmail.com. Should you need more information on living in Mexico contact mexicanlaura@gmail.com. La Paz is a beautiful and undiscovered area with access to wonderful sea life. It is a jumping off place for visiting pristine islands. You can camp or fish or scuba dive or just loaf around on the beach and eat delicious seafood. If you are rich go to Costa Baja and if you are looking for a bargain go to La Paz. I hope you enjoy paradise as much as I did.

travel - EDMONTON SENIOR, February 2014 29

Visit Ellis Farm when the birds return By Carolyn Hall “Look, grandma, I’m a bluebird,” shouted five-year old Britney, her arms flapping as she bounced along. It was last year, and we were on the path to the upper pond at the Ellis Bird Farm. The bluebirds, hummingbirds, purple martins and other winged visitors the farm hosts during the season will not return to Alberta for some months, but this is the place to be when they do. On 276 acres of land located halfway between Joffre and Lacombe, Alberta, the tranquil bird sanctuary is a must-see not only for birdwatchers, but also for kids of all ages. The migrating birds arrive in early spring and if you want to see lots of them, that’s probably the best time to visit, along with the months of June to the beginning of August. The farm has many special events, workshops and programs such as a bug jamboree, edible plants or macrophotography workshop and public lectures. In July, the bluebird festival provides an opportunity to learn about, and see, mountain bluebirds that come to nest in many of over three hundred customized nesting boxes on the bluebird trail that lines the perimeter of the working farm. Charles Ellis, known as Mr. Bluebird, and his sister Winnie inherited

the homestead of their parents in the grams. early 1950s and made it their lifeIn addition to bird-related books time work to maintain the land as and gadgets, you can purchase birda conservation farm. In 1956, there house kits or a chickadee and finch was one pair of nesting bluebirds. birdfeeder and pick up plans for By the late 1970s, the farm boasted building your own bird nesting boxmore than 60 pairs. es. You can also get many tips on how At the entrance to the visito discourage sparrows and tor centre, a hummingencourage other birds to bird garden provides visit your home feeder. shelter and nourCollections of ishment for rubybirdhouses are evthroated humerywhere: on the mingbirds that antique fencing sip nectar from that borders the burgundy hollyfarm, on buildhocks and truming walls, on pet vines. posts where the Look closely at purple martins the garden, and roost in their own you may spot a community conleaf-cutter bee house dos, in the space-age tucked in amongst the gourd nest display, in blossoms and a great trees where woodpecknumber of bees flitting The pond is a focus for ers have abandoned beautiful floral display. amongst the spiky blostheir hollows and perPhoto by Carolyn Hall soms of the lambs ear haps even in the motor perennials. casing of an antique tractor. Each In the visitor centre are numerous nesting place has its own characdisplays of birds, nests, birdhouses, teristic and charm, but more imporbutterfly, bat and lady bug houses, tantly, it provides shelter for cavitysparrow traps and other projects re- nesting birds. lated to the work done by the Ellis When we visited, tree swallows Bird Farm, whose mandate includes were swooping and diving as they a summer nesting program, win- came in for a soft landing in what ter bird feeding program, scientific was once a seed elevator, one of the research and public education pro- few remaining and oldest small-farm

TOLL FREE: 888-883-9114

structures of its kind in Alberta. Near the elevator is a metal sculpture that indicates the wingspan of various birds such as the purple martin, great horned owl and bald eagle. Don’t miss it. The wildlife demonstration habitat includes birds, wetlands, woodlands and even a domestic petting barn and pen that features English black pigs, a handful of mischievous miniature goats who love to climb, docile sheep, a Muscovy duck and other gentle farm animals. Pathways are paved and are wheelchair accessible. The self-guided discovery walk is labeled and easy to follow. After dipping your nets into the upper pond to “fish” for pond life and tadpoles, you may want to head to the teahouse, the original Ellis farmhouse. They serve made-fromscratch lunches in the small restaurant. The waits are a bit long, so be sure to make a reservation or bring your own lunch. There are picnic tables on the premises. For grandchildren, special birthday parties can be arranged that include building a birdhouse, making tree cookies and playing nature games. These extra highlights may determine when you want to visit. But, whenever you go, your experience at Ellis Bird Farm will take you to new heights.

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Includes: 4 nights in Las Vegas, 2 in Wendover, 2 in Helena, 6 meals, Slot Play, side tours The Golden Nugget fun book value $250.00 TheD - $20.00 in food coupons

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Apr 1, May 12, June 23 Includes $20 Meal & $40 slot play, city tour, optional day tour to Regina

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4 days $329.00 - May 12 and Sept 29 Includes $15 meal coupons, 1 lunch, 50% off day spa coupon, and shopping trip to Spokane

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6 Days $434.00 • May 3 & Sept 3

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

ELKO / ELY and WENDOVER 10 days Apr 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 from Ely to Keystone, Visit 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

NEW

Feb 16, Mar 16, May 11 $75.00 Casino Package Edmonton area going east

COEUR D’ALENE CASINO

6 days $469.00 • April 9 and Oct 8 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

DEADWOOD, SD

7 Days $509.00 • May 3 & Sept 3

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

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 5 days – June 26

Includes: 2 nights in Helena, 2 in Yellowstone, 5 meals, Virginia City, Imax & Grizzly Wolf Visitors center and 2 days discovering Yellowstone.

RIVER ROCK RESORT & CASINO

6 days - April 27 & Oct 5 $549.00

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

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March 3, April 14, May 5 Includes 3 breakfasts

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6 days - May 25 & Sept 7 - $439.00

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30 February 2014, EDMONTON SENIOR

Classifieds WANTED

FOR RENT

WANTED: Vintage/ older (50’s to 70’s) toy’s, Cereal & Radio Premium’s. Also looking for Older Diecast: Corgi toys, Dinky toys. Please call or email: 780457-1790, awid1@shaw. ca.

Furnished 1 bedroom, self contained basement suite, private entrance. Seeking only a clean, quiet N/D, N/S, no pets/ kids, $700/ month + half utilities, March 1st. (780)462-7517.

CLASSES

ACCOMM WANTED

Geneolgy classes: Feb. 20 & March 20, 7pm to 9pm at The Old Timers Cabin, 9430-99 Street, Edmonton. Phone Marg to register @ 780-469-7843.

Older N/S, N/D gentleman, with 2 pets, requires a suite with yard, available to do yard work and small repairs. Box #3115.

personal companion Are you in need of a personal companion? I am a 61 year old woman with over 10 years experience working with elders both in a nursing home setting and as a personal companion. Please contact me at (780)439-3447 for more information.

Classif ied CALL 7 Advertising 80.470 .5602 340 Ca rle

ton Driv St. Albe e, r t, AB T classifie 8N 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!

EDMONTON SENIOR CLASSIFIED ADS

Ladies

GENTLEMEN

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.

I’m 73 years young, Taurus, 6’ tall, enjoy dining out occasionally, retired, live in own home, enjoy traveling, attend United Church and am a Tim Horton’s fan. I look forward to hearing from female of similar interests, call 780-417-8725.

LADIES GENTLEMAN COMPANION Use the form below or call: 780.470.5602

From the Edmonton Senior For Individuals Only (not for businesses)

DEADLINE: 18th of Prior MONTH

• 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

City:

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.

Place your Senior Metting Senior AD Here

Happy Valentine’s

Classified Advertising

Name: Address: Postal Code: Email: Phone: AD Content:

Senior Meeting Senior

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, February 2014 31

Business Classifieds Business Advertising CALL 780.470.5602

We are looking for Drivers! Are you 50 - 70 yrs. old and in good health? Would you like to earn $11.00/hour moving our cars between our various locations? Originating at International Airport and going to our locations

Please fax a letter of interest to Jamie at

Sell Your House

‘as is’

for a fair price “Choose your date!”

We Buy Houses! To get your FREE special report visit us at: www.solutionhomebuyers.ca

780-890-2393

Please include your contact information when responding. jaross@hertz.com

or Call:

780-484-6040

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

Mature House Cleaner - punctual, reliable, hardworking, willing to work in Edmonton and St. Albert. References and consultations available. $25.00 per hour with aminimum of 3 hours per visit. Please call (780) 458-6144.

Beautiful, Fully Furnished 1 Bdrm Bsmt Suite. All Util. & Cable incl. $800/month. Small pet welcome.

Call 780-489-8638

FLOORING SALES Carpet, Lino, Lam. & Hardwood BBB Member

Carpentry painting • Renovations • Repairs • Large or Small JOBS

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

780-999-6105 Home Upholstery Ltd.

Business Advertising CALL 780.470.5602

and/or

Transitions Established 1997

WE HELP MAKE YOUR TRANSITION WORRY FREE

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32 February 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

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780.980.3064

RIVERBEND SQUARE

200 Falconer Court • Edmonton, AB 780.433.2223

TERRA LOSA 17203 99 Avenue • Edmonton, AB 780.435.2000

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4069 106 Street • Edmonton, AB 780.437.7171

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W Haven Dr

Hwy

50th Ave

izabeth

Queen E l

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