Dec 2011

Grey Power Nelson

December 2011

Members Christmas Functions P5

Protect your privacy

Changes to the road rules P 20

P7

Older, Wiser...

Petition Demanding Poll

Nelson City Council - Maori Ward Seat A petition is now circulating demanding that the Nelson City Council conduct a poll to ascertain whether the community wants a separate Maori Ward seat on future Councils.

Grey Power Nelson’s Local Body Committee is appalled at the way this decision was railroaded through Council without any consultation.

Although the law does not require Council to consult on such a decision, this is probably the most important decision the Council has ever faced.

To exclude the community is an insult and we urge members and the community at large to support the petition demanding a poll, to show the Council we expect them to represent the whole community as they were elected to do.

Copies of the petition are available to sign at the Grey Power Office, in all libraries and numerous business premises.

Grey Power is neither for nor against such a seat on Council, but is totally opposed to the undemocratic way in which the Council has introduced it.

If you would like a copy of the petition to obtain signatures for your area please phone Errol Millar 546 7928 or Kevin Gardener 545 2010.

Nelson Grey Power President Gordon Currie with Prime Minister John Key at the Nelson Suburban Club on 9 November. John Key has promised not to raise the retirement age, Prime Minister Grey Power holds you to that promise and looks forward to working with you in the future to further enhance and protect the rights of seniors.

Family Member or Friend 50 or over?

Not a Grey Power Member?

How about a Grey Power Membership for Christmas?

Come into the Grey Power Office and purchase a 2012 membership as a present.

We will issue a voucher wishing the new member a Merry Christmas, let-

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Thoughts from the President Well this is the last newsletter before Christmas, last Christmas wasn’t long ago, each year it is getting shorter and shorter as the years go by!

Are you thinking of building a new home? Well Jennian Homes are offering Grey Power members a very good deal, the discount they are offering works for you and for us, if you are thinking of a new home why not give them a call.

We have held meetings for the leaders of the political parties, some well attended, some not. We don’t have to worry about them for another three years. While I am on this subject I feel I owe the Prime Minister an apology. In the last newsletter I was a bit critical of his non appearance, but he did turn up for a last minute meeting, sorry John!

The new style newsletter was printed, folded and delivered on time. I had one complaint from a member who did not like the new layout, but I think it was accepted very well by most members.

It was produced by the Waimea Weekly at no cost to us, and we also received a cheque to help with the cost of postage, thanks Steve.

I did have a few comments as to who had editorial control of the Newsletter.

As explained in the last Newsletter, Nelson Grey Power retains full control

over the Newsletter content. Waimea Weekly only handle the advertising and the printing and have no say as to what the editorial content is and what we can and cannot put in the Newsletter and that is the way it will stay so please do not worry that the Newsletter will change too much.

After the RWC the political scene is a bit of an anti-climax, I wonder who will win.

It was noted in the Nelson Mail a NCC councillor thinks the local body system needs changing, to hell with democracy, let’s get rid of the stupid idea and just have a couple of commissioners running the councils, it could only come from a Nelson City Councillor: mind you???

We will have a new updated web site on 05 December, Patsy will have control and she will be keeping the web site updated every week, Nigel Bailey is our new web master and has some good ideas for us, thanks Nigel. You will hear more about Nigel and what he has done for our website in our March Newsletter.

Merry Christmas to you all and may the next year be better than this one, try to get the grandkids to be sensible about drink and driving so we can all celebrate the festive season.

Regards Gordon Currie

Disclaimer

Neither this association, nor any person associated with it, accepts any liability for the contents of this newsletter which has been prepared in good faith and is believed to be correct.

The final say on any articles printed in this Newsletter is at the discretion of the Nelson Grey Power President who has over all editorial approval.

OFFICE HOURS: CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR 13 December to 20 December (Monday to Friday) 9am to 1pm The office closes for Christmas on Tuesday 20 December.

The office reopens on Monday 16 January.

16 January to 03 February (Monday to Friday) 9am to 1pm 07 February normal office hours resume, 10am to 2:30pm

Nelson Grey Power 8 Strawbridge Square, Stoke Office Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-2.30pm Ph: 03 547 2457 Fax: 03 547 2157 P. O. Box 2190 Stoke

E: nelsongreypower@xtra.co.nz www.greypowernelson.org.nz

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Office News

Okay, let’s just take a moment, how can it be December already, what happened to this year? Time is supposed to fly when you are having fun, but, I don’t think I have had that much fun!!!!

Members Day at the Mall: Since our last Newsletter we have had some busy times in the office.

The Members “Specials day” we had at the Richmond Mall in conjunction with Michael Hill Richmond and the Richmond Mall Pharmacy was a great success. Members were keen to take advantage of the specials being offered by these two businesses. Grey Power thanks Dave from Michael Hill, Simon and Angela from the Pharmacy plus all their staff for a great day. We look forward to doing it again next year.

Political Meetings: Despite advertising in our Newsletter, on the radio, in the local paper, all but one political meeting were poorly attended.

The John Key meeting which was a last minute addition requested by the National Party just a week prior to the meeting was attended by 240 people.

Are public meetings becoming a thing of the past? Emails, Facebook, Massive media coverage, who needs to make the effort to come out to a meeting when you can sit at home in your comfy chair and have all the information you need at your fingertips.

Vouchers: Once again we will have available vouchers for anyone who would like to give a Grey Power membership as a Christmas present. These proved very popular last year and is great stocking filler for someone who has everything.

New members will receive three, free months Grey Power membership.

Out and About: Grey Power Volunteers will be out and about at all summer events over Christmas, New Year, look out for our Stall at the Richmond Market Day, 30 December, we will also be at Washbourne Gardens Fair, Tapawera Show, Murchison Show and anywhere else we can think of. Come and say hullo, we will be pleased to chat to our members.

Volunteers: The back bone of Nelson Grey Power, our volunteers are very important to us. The office volunteers who give their time so

Dave Moloney, Michael Hill Manager presents the watch won by GP member Win Cozens with Gordon Currie. freely to assist with member renewals. The Newsletter volunteers, without whom this Newsletter would not reach your letter boxes. Our proof readers and our database ladies. We are so appreciative and grateful for all that you lovely people do for Grey Power.

May you always have love to share, health to spare and friends that care. To one and all have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Year, look out for one another.

Patsy PS: A balanced diet is a chocolate in both hands!!!!!

Christmas Humour Sometimes I get the feeling that if Christmas, Father’s Day and birthdays did not exist then after shave too would not exist.

Why does Santa have three gardens? So he can ho-hoho.

People say “it’s the thought that counts not the gift” but

couldn’t they think a little bigger.

Christmas is in my heart 12 months of the year and thanks to credit cards it’s on my Visa Statement 12 months a year too.

Who is never hungry at Christmas? The turkey – he is always stuffed!!!

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DHB Therapy Equipment Store has Moved

Congratulations Pat Carrick, Grey Power Treasurer and Gold Medal Winning Athlete.

Pat had a very successful Masters Tournament winning the Indoor Bowls pairs with partner Kay Forsyth and also being part of the winning fours along with Jean and Kevin McKenzie and Maurice Dodsworth. Well done to Pat and team mates.

The Allied Health Store that receives returns of hospital therapy equipment is moving to Braemar Campus off Waimea Rd. This follows the closure of Dalton House due to the high earthquake risk.

The Allied Health Store is responsible for maintaining, cleaning and receiving Occupational Therapy equipment and Physiotherapy equipment e.g. shower stools, toilet frames, wheelchairs.

The hours for the store are 8am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.

The temporary site for the store will be next to Taylors Laundry which is near the permanent site location and will consist of an Office Cabin - with all office requirements in place and six 20 foot containers – with an option to have more or to use offsite storage.

The office and containers were delivered during the week of 22 November. There is a covered area for dropping equipment off, and parking provided. The week of the 28 November the equipment moved onto the new facility.

The long term Store plans are continuing and after a meeting with the architect plans are awaited. These will then go out to tender.

All existing clients with equipment on loan will be contacted with a detailed map of how to get to the new Allied Health Store.

We hope that people coming from Richmond will turn right at Tukuku St and then turn left onto Campbell St to approach the Motueka St entrance of Braemar Campus.

For more information see www.nmdhb.govt.nz

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Grey Power Nelson

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Some of our Members at Members political meetings Christmas Functions Helen Bruce & Nolene Purvis

Robbie’s Bar & Bistro, Richmond Lunch Wednesday 14 December 12:30pm Doors Open 11:30 Cost $24.00 Dinner Thursday 15 December 7:30pm Doors Open 6:30pm Cost $24.00

Elviene & Colin Brown

Both meals will feature “Phil’s Sumptuous Buffet” Lucky numbers at the door

Phone the office 547 2457 to book Anne, Richard & Harold

Limited numbers for both meals Payment on the day.

If you need to cancel a booking please advise the office, otherwise we will have to charge you for the meal as we get charged for any member who does not show.

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Call Nigel

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Errol Millar, Eric Davy and George Truman

Eyecare Professionals specialising in General Optometry, Geriatric Optometry & Specialised Contact Lens Fitting.

JK London

Phil Matthews Optometrist

Nelson 03 548 3249

Richmond 03 544 4319

Motueka 03 528 8724

www.matthews.co.nz

6

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Gordon Currie Replies to Roy Reid The President Roy Reid is complaining that some Associations are being disloyal. I am sorry, but President Roy Reid’s diatribe in the National Magazine has done more damage to Grey Power than the any of the accused Associations.

Mr Reid blatantly states, that the Federation Board follows what the Grey Power Delegates at AGM’s instruct them to do. Sorry Roy, but that is not the truth. At two separate AGM’s the Board was instructed to shift the head office to Wellington, but after the AGM, by using some weak excuse, the Board refused to carry out the instructions given as per Remit.

Another transgression, the Board Secretary, W Atkinson, refused to lodge Constitutional changes, passed by the Delegates at an AGM, because the Board was to be deprived of their votes at the AGM’s. These were even-

tually lodged by other parties with the Registrar of Incorporated Societies.

Perceived problems are many with the Board, one is there are 17 (seventeen) board members to run Grey Power, who meet quarterly. That involves flights, accommodation and meals etc.

These meetings can last three to four days, and could be done by a 6 (six) member board in one day, or done by conference calls (telephone).

Voting at AGM’s each Association has two votes – very democratic! One year Waiheke Island (with 19 members) each paying $5 capitation, Nelson had 11,000 plus members, each paying $5 capitation, we had two votes. Fair you say? Democratic you say? Oh No!! Because any Association with less than 400 members gets the AGM costs paid by the Federation with our money.

Next Year’s AGM is to be held in Invercargill. No worry to the 17 Federation Board Members because they are paid for with your money, as well as the AGM costs of all Associations under 400 members. When was the last time you heard or read in the media what Grey Power Federation is doing or has done

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– nothing a big ziltch!, so where does our $40 or $50,000 go???? Ego tripping junkets, that is where, achieving nothing and pursuing their own agenda’s.

Roy, in closing, the Delegates at the Christchurch AGM voted for the ex Mayor of Marton a forward thinking younger man, who is experienced in people skills and would have been a great asset to Grey Power, who was voted into the position of Vice President. Who, according to the Federation Constitution, is to take control of the Board if anything happens to the President? Think hard Roy, you have stated in print, that the Board follows instructions from the Delegates and how they have voted at the AGM. The President passed away; did you follow what the Delegates voted? Oh No! Through some convoluted process the instructions of the Delegates were totally ignored, and a person who had not been voted into power by the Delegates, was given the President’s job, then the next President resigned, and what happened “we must follow the Constitution” claimed the Board, real funny that Roy, because you got the President’s job.

Gordon Currie

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547 2457

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Your Personal Information is Valuable Provided by the Privacy Commissioner www.privacy.org.nz

Can I See What Information A Business Has About Me? You can ask to see the information that Who Has My information? a business has about you. If it is wrong, Lots of businesses have information you can ask for the details to be correctabout you. Every time you use a loyalty ed or deleted. card, buy things on line or sign up for an account you are giving information Do I have to Tell Anyone About My about yourself.

Finances?

Businesses have to be honest with you Only share financial information with about why they want your information people if you want to – even relatives or and what they are going to do with it. friends.

They also have to keep your information If someone pushes you to sign somesafe. thing or provide information, say no.

Take time to check with a friend, relaShould I Check The Terms And Condi- tive, lawyer or Citizens Advice Bureau tions?

(0800 367222).

When you sign up for a new service or If you think your financial information product, make sure you know what you is being misused tell someone trustworare agreeing to. Will you be put on a thy like the bank, a friend or the police. mailing list? Will your details be given to someone else?

What Happens If I Cannot Manage My If it is unclear what is going to happen Affairs Any More? with your information, ask. If you are An enduring power of attorney lets anworried, do not provide your informa- other make financial decisions on your tion. Go to a different business if you behalf. Pick someone you trust. You are not happy. will need to get legal advice before signTake your time – do not be pressured ing any paperwork. into anything. If you want to think Nobody can force you to give them an about it, or you want to check with fam- enduring power of attorney, even your ily and friends, say so. Any genuine relatives. Also, you can change your business will respect your wishes. mind about who your attorney is.

Should I Share My Pin Numbers?

Never give anyone your pin numbers, bank security numbers, or passwords. If you have to write them down to remember them, keep then in a hidden place – not in your wallet or by the phone.

How Would I Know If Someone Took Money From My Account?

Check bank and credit card statements regularly to make sure there are no surprise withdrawals or purchases. Contact the bank if there is anything unusual.

Organisations like the Office for Senior Citizens (04 916 3758) and Age Concern have more information on protecting your finances.

How Do I Protect My Passwords?

Choose a password that is difficult for others to guess. For example, do not use your pet’s name, your birthday, or 1234.

Preferably, use a mixture of letters, numbers and symbols.

It is safest to use different passwords for different accounts. If one password is compromised, the rest of your accounts will still be safe.

If you need to write down your passwords, keep them hidden somewhere (not in your wallet, or by your phone). continued over

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How Do I Protect My Information Online?

Make sure you have got up-to-date anti-virus software, especially if you are shopping or banking online. Look for the padlock on a webpage, which suggests it is secure.

Emails from people you do not know often contain viruses that let others access your computer. Do not click on any links or attachments and delete the emails without responding.

Never email personal details like your bank account or credit card number to anyone, even if you think they are a friend. You do not always know who you are dealing with online.

Think carefully before sending an email or putting something on a webpage. Once your information is out there, you cannot take it back.

If you use Facebook, set your profile to private so you only share information with people you choose.

You can protect others too. If you forward an email, take previous addressees’ names off the message.

There Are So Many Scams – How Do I Spot One? The commonest scams include emails asking you to send money to a friend or Organisation, letters saying you have won a prize, or calls or visitors saying your computer needs fixing or your house needs painting. They are run by people trying to steal money or get your information.

If a stranger tries to sell you something, beware. If an offer sounds too

good to be true, or sounds weird, it is almost certainly a scam.

A bank or Inland Revenue will never contact you to ask you to confirm your password, credit card or account details.

How Can I Protect Myself?

Scammers can sound very plausible.

So it is best not to give any information about yourself to stranger – especially on the phone, at your door, or on your computer. Put the phone down, close your door, or delete the email.

Genuine businesses will not put pressure on you. They will be happy to prove who they are. They will let you speak to a manager, and they will give you time to consider what you want to do.

Check with your relatives or friends if you are not sure whether something is a scam.

How Can I Protect Other People?

Tell relatives, neighbors or the police if you think there is a scammer around.

The Scamwatch website has a list of the latest scams: http//www.consumeraffairs.govt.nz Who Needs My Health Information?

Health professionals often need a lot of information to give you the right health care.

But you have control over who can get information about your health.

If you are unsure why your health

professional is asking particular questions, ask them to explain. They will be able to tell you why they need that information and what they are going to do with it.

If you do not understand, ask then to repeat what they have said.

It can be useful to take a support person to appointments with you, to hear what is said and remember what happened.

Can I Ask To See My Hospital Or Doctor’s Records?

You can ask to see any information your health professionals have about you. It is usually free, but you might have to pay for copies of expensive items like x-rays.

If you think your health information is wrongly recorded, ask for a correction to be put on your file so your views will be considered.

What Information Can My Family Get? Whatever your age, family support is often very important for your health.

Also, family often worry if they do not know what is going on.

Tell health professionals and family what support you want and what information you are happy to share.

This choice is yours. If you do not want health information to be shared, let them know.

Concerned about your privacy?

Phone 0800 803 909 or email enquiries@privacy.org.nz

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Abolishing gift duty and the effect on benefits Ministry of Social Development rules remain unchanged Gift duty is a duty (a bit like a tax) charged on gifts of more than $27,000 made by a person in any one year. The Government plans to abolish gift duty from 1 October 2011.

Inland Revenue administers a number of Acts, including the Estate and Gift Duties Act, which contains the requirement for gift duty. That Act will be changed from 1 October 2011.

The Ministry of Social Development administers entitlement to benefits, through the Social Security Act 1964, a completely separate Act. Although gift duty rules will change, the Ministry of Social Development benefit rules will stay the same.

how income is defined between these Acts. Income for benefit purposes is different to income for tax and duty purposes.

Key Points

• Residential Care Subsidies have a small amount of allowed gifting, per application. From 1 July 2011, allowed gifts will be $6,000 per year per application (to 30 June 2011: $5,500) for gifts made in any of the last five years, and $27,000 per year per application for gifts made more than five years ago.

• Abolishing gift duty is a change in the Estate and Gift Duties Act. There is no equivalent change in social security legislation.

• Entitlement to Ministry of Social Development benefits and subsidies is generally administered through the Social Security Act 1964, not the Estate and Gift Duties Act and not any taxation Act. There are key differences in

Christmas Cake From Maryan Street

Ingredients: 250g Butter, 4 Eggs, 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 cups of flour, 2x 500g packs of mixed fruit, 3tspns golden syrup, ¼ cup of milk, Essences: Almond, Lemon, Brandy, and Rose,

• The social security system operates on the principle that people should look to their own resources first before seeking assistance from the state.

• Under the Social Security Act, there is no ‘allowable gifting’ amount for general benefits. All available resources are required to be used to help the client support themselves. This approach will not change with the abolition of gift duty. It is a separate Act.

• The allowed gifting for Residential Care Subsidies is not changing as a result of the abolition of gift duty. Any amount over the allowed gifting may Spices: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, All spice Directions: Line tin (about 23cm diameter) with several thicknesses of paper, ending with a last layer of cooking paper. Cream butter and sugar until well dissolved. Add eggs, one at a time- beating well. Add essences. Mix in golden syrup. Dissolve soda in milk

affect entitlement, depending on the figures involved.

• Because gift duty is being abolished, the Ministry of Social Development expects that more people will use gifting to manage their assets and finances.

However, if clients gift assets to any party, they need to be aware that their entitlements to financial assistance could be affected.

• The Ministry of Social Development will continue to ask for documents from clients or third parties, to assess the impact that gifting has had on clients’ entitlements to financial help through the Ministry of Social Development.

• It is important that clients seek legal advice before making decisions about their future if they are considering trusts. Clients are able to contact the Ministry of Social Development if they want to know how decisions will affect their entitlement to financial assistance provided by the Ministry.

If you need more information on allowed gifting and Residential Care Subsidies, please phone 0800 999 727. and add. Sift flour and spice and gradually add. Mix in the fruit. A splash of Brandy is also a good additive, but not necessary. Fill tin and bake.

Bake in a moderately slow oven, around 150c for 3 hours. When removed from the oven, and still hot, pour over a small amount of Brandy.

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A French Cottage Renovation Project

By Barry Stott The idea of owning a cottage in France came to us during a fortnight’s barging holiday on the Nantes - Brest Canal in Brittany, in the year 2007. Whilst cruising the waterway, we noticed a lack of shops in canalside villages, and many small cottages were deserted, left to become ruins. On investigation, we found this was due mostly to population migration to the cities, as farming methods had changed considerably from the fifties.

On searching the internet I discovered there were many bargain cottages available, so I managed to have one inspected by my wife, who was visiting a friend in Brittany. Fairly confident it was what we wanted we bought it for a very reasonable price.

The following year, on taking occupation of it, we found it to be habitable, and little work was required, other than of a cosmetic nature, and making

an attractive garden.

This completed, it was not long before two derelict cottages took our attention, 30 kilometres from our live in cottage. After some discussion with a friend experienced in this type of restoration, we took the plunge and bought these two adjoining farm cottages, plus a cowshed, piggery, and large storage barn, again at bargain prices.

My first action was to replace the roofs of the living accommodation, carried

out by UK Roofers. The granite walls are on average 2’ thick, with an airspace of 1’ in between, giving a 3 - 4’ overall thickness, but do not have a damp course and usually just a beaten earth floor.

We are operating to a yearly budget, and found that employing contractors, obtaining the materials, and transporting them was a very costefficient method. We have in fact used NZ builder friends, who work and stay for several weeks combining a holiday with a very interesting work environment.

I use two 25 year old (UK purchased and very cheap) Mercedes Estates as work horses, and find the heavy-duty trailer I brought from UK to be an invaluable tool.

I am not a French speaker, but manage.

My wife is learning, despite the frustration of not knowing what she is shopping for by product name at times!

UK is excellent for building goods so we bring most items from there. However, as time progresses, the French materials are becoming more reasonably priced than when we commenced this project.

I had a plan and ideas of what to do and when. This has more or less proceeded as planned. I have a comprehensive tool collection and workshop,

How would you like to go to a place that offers; • Companionship • New friends to make • Lots of clubs to join • Play cards or pool • Great food at great prices • A modern safe environment • Always lots to do or a place for a quiet chat and a drink • Only $40 per year LIVE Entertainment Every Saturday Night

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Grey Power Nelson

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France is four and half times larger than UK, with virtually the same population. A good motorway system is available, and Brittany is on the way to most places of note. We plan to spend 4 months in Europe, 8 months in NZ. I have ex-

perienced a marked decrease in arthritic pain having two summers per year, and believe what they say “a project keeps Alzheimer’s at bay”. Life is in the slow lane in France, enjoyable, laid back, and has a lot to recommend it.

Reasons Why English is Hard to Learn • The bandage was wound around the wound.

• The farm is used to produce produce.

• Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. and have managed to restore original doors and windows to their former glory, constructing others when necessary. The local mayors are all – powerful.

Keeping onside with them is very important; consent starts with them, and costs nothing!

It took a year or two to get the measure of it all. However, my wife and I have no regrets. This year was very demanding, having to construct a garden from a very overgrown and rough surfaced piece of land. It was achieved, mainly due to hiring the correct piece of renovating equipment.

Finally, we are on the home

straight. At times the odds seemed daunting, but we are pleased to have persevered. We celebrate a job well done, and we will be able to hand on the fruits of our efforts to the next generation. I will emphasize that the cost of this project has been most reasonable!

Travelling to France from UK is convenient. The night ferry takes 10 hours, has cabins, so you arrive refreshed early AM, and the car journey is one and a half hours to the properties. The Brittany Ferries, French owned and operated, are modern with all amenities, and we find the journey most pleasant.

Call in and see Andrew and his friendly, helpful staff

• I did not object to the object.

• The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

• They were too close to the door to close it.

• The buck does funny things when the does are present.

• The dump was so full it had to refuse more refuse.

• I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

• It took a minute to make a minute amount.

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12

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News

Beware the dangers of not attaching your own Trailer!!!

By Patsy Mayers Driving out of one of the local Hardware Store carparks the other Saturday, “PP” (Perfect Pete), driving my car, was behind another car that had a trailer attached. The trailer came off and ran into the front of my car. The trailer had been put onto the vehicle by a staff member from the Hardware Store and had not been put onto the drawbar securely and the safety chain had not been attached. Fortunately the damage to my car was not extensive, and things could certainly have been a lot worse. Apparently a few seconds before hand two young children had walked between my car and the trailer. I hate to think what could have happened if the car and trailer had driven onto the road and then the trailer had come off!!!!

Number one lesson to learn from this incident is, if someone other than yourself is attaching something like a trailer to your vehicle always check yourself that this has been done correctly. Many of our elderly members have probably had staff do exactly as above for them without any mishap, but look what could happen. I think it is great that staff will help out in this manner, but do not take it for granted that they know what they are doing or

have done it properly, staff can get distracted.

The gentleman towing the trailer had obviously not checked and in hindsight should have. Apparently there are signs up saying to do just that and there is a form for the customer to fill in basically saying “all care but no responsibility”. But in this case this form was not offered to the vehicle driver.

(On ringing other such stores in the area, they all seem to have the same policy, signs, forms, when it comes to trailers).

“PP” duly got all the other drivers information and came home details in hand to break the news to me about my car. No problems insurance wise, we have all the other drivers info, and the Hardware Store would be at fault.

Take all the details to our Insurance Company and apart from the inconvenience of being without my car whilst it is being fixed I did not see

there being any problems, after all the accident was not “PPs” fault.

The following Monday, armed with all the info off to the Insurance Company I went. Coincidently the Insurance staff member I spoke to said this was the second claim she had dealt with in a week involving a trailer put on incorrectly by a staff member, the other instance being at a garden center. Once again a reminder to check for yourself, two in a week is not good.

Insurance paper work all filled in correctly, yes not “PPs” fault, either other driver or Hardware store would be liable, claim number given, take car to panelbeater, get quote … “oh and you will have to pay the $300 excess” … what, wait a minute, why do we have to pay anything, this accident was not our fault, I thought the party at fault would be liable. (no such thing as a perfect world). The staff member explained that whilst we would initially have to pay the excess the insurance company would probably get the money ($300) back off the party at fault and then reimburse us. Hullo!!! To me it did not seem right that we had to pay anything, okay if it was a hit and run with no details known of the other party, but come on, we weren’t at fault, we

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had given the insurance company all the relevant details, let them pay the excess and then get it back off the party at fault. Well apparently it does not work like that, how naïve am I???

I told the insurance staff member that I was going to write an article for our Newsletter, for two reasons, to remind members to check attachments to vehicles and also to point out being in the right does not always cover you entirely insurance wise. Well of course this got the staffer on the defensive, “you will get your excess back … eventually” I was told.

Still could not understand why I had to pay it at all.

Also not everyone can afford to pay the excess.

I realize that the insurance staff member was only doing her job, but when I get a phone call from her saying that she did not think it was a good idea to write an article as it will mislead people and every situation is different my hackles went up. I am only writing what happened to us, to let members know what could happen and I am sure it will not cause “mass hysteria”. As I pointed out

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to the staff member concentrate on my claim and do not tell me I can’t write this, you are supposed to be working for me as your client.

I have rung several other Insurance Companies, explaining what had happened with my Insurance company and apparently with a claim like this, this is how it would be handled. Party not at fault pays excess and then Insurance company will try to get it back for the client … go figure!!!

Note: I have not named the Hardware Store or Insurance Company as this is not a witch hunt, as far as the trailer is concerned, it is just one of those things that can happen. As far as the Insurance company goes, it would seem that their policy on this is no different to any other insurance company.

Further Footnote: I am pleased to report although the Hardware Store is not admitting liability they are paying for the full repair of my vehicle, including excess.

Total cost of repairs $340, might have been different if the bill had been higher, but all’s well that ends well.

Trailer Know How Need to use a trailer, do you know what a trailer legally needs to be road worthy?

What your trailer must display: A current warrant of fitness and a current vehicle registration label Check that all lights are in working order, and know that if your load obstructs essential lights you must fix temporary lights to comply with legal requirements.

Ensure the tow rating of your vehicle and the trailer coupling is sufficient for your load and compatible with the tow ball size.

The biggest cause of mishaps is the wrong size of tow ball coupling.

What is needed to connect the trailer to the vehicle?

The trailer coupling must be fitted securely onto the towball of the vehicle.

If your trailer has a locking system make sure that is also done up.

Make sure the safety chain is also connected.

The light connection from your vehicle to the trailer must also be connected and lights working.

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Grey Power 2020?

By Errol Millar In the last magazine, I highlighted some of the problems facing Grey Power nationally, and suggested it was time Grey Power looked at restructuring and rebranding.

Duncan McDonald, Zone 4 Director took the initiative and convinced the Federation Board to gain the services of an independent professional facilitator to review Grey Power as an organisation and come up with a strategy to move forward. The $6000 or so Associations contributed towards this survey was very well spent with the facilitator making the following recommendations: + “Reduce the Board to no more than 9 Members (Currently 17) + Reduce Board meetings time to

no more than one day (Presently 3 days) + Separate governance and operational matters at meetings and only involve relevant members in the latter + Attract younger members into the organisation and onto the Board. Develop a plan to have at least 3 Board members under 65 within 5 years. + Employ a small number of specialist staff to assist with research and preparation of lobbying material etc.

These might be part time or contractors. + Reconsider the breadth of its advocacy to demonstrate an interest and concern for a wider range of social matters, e.g. the future for young people, education, training and employment etc. The wisdom of old people is too valuable to be lost to society. + Demonstrate its relevance to the new generation of older people (the baby boomers). This will

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mean understanding this group’s interests and concerns and diverting resources into advocating for these. + Understanding and being realistic about the organisation’s image in the wider public eye, i.e. move right away from the ‘Greedy Oldies’ image, being seen as relevant only to ‘old’ people, being no more than a glorified social club (at the local level) etc. If Grey Power is to survive and thrive, it must demonstrate its relevance in a much changed world”.

As at 30 September 2011 Grey Power’s National membership was around 65,500. Of that 9,500 are Nelson Members. I think the facilitator has got it right. When over 20,000 members are lost in just a few years, something has to be done and I feel my earlier comments have been vindicated by this independent report!

Let’s now hope the National Executive is very pro-active in implementing the facilitator’s recommendations.

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Freeview Deals Rowan Dron is still busy installing My Freeview, HD digital television across the region.

When the digital switch over takes place the current free-to-air analogue signals are switched off and New Zealand will move to digital only television transmission. Freeview is the only way you can continue to get free TV and Rowan can look after the transfer for you. Because Rowan is a qualified

and registered electrician he offers a complete package from a simple switch over for your current television, right through to installation of new TV’s, audio systems or home theatre packages, even installing new power points if you need them. Rowan will arrange for the transfer to Freeview to be a simple process and you won’t need to replace your current television set. There are no monthly fees

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Log Pudding

From Debbie Edwards, Ernest Rutherford Marketing Manager

Ingredients: Packet of Choc Chip Biscuits or Ginger Nuts, Cream, Sherry or favourite liqueur, chocolate chips Directions: Dip the biscuits into sherry then sandwich together with whipped cream to make a log. Then cover completely with whipped cream and sprinkle over chocolate chips.

Leave in fridge for a few hours.

Slice and serve.

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Don’t Let Your Valuables Become A Burglars Christmas Presents Home Security Checklist

• When you go out, turn the telephone volume down so that it cannot be heard ringing unattended • Don’t leave notes for family or friends outside your home as potential burglars can and will read them • Don’t leave tools lying around your yard as this can invite impulse burglars to use them and break into your home • Install sensor lights at all points of entry/exit • Remove any shrubs and trees next to your house that may conceal a burglar trying to break in • Install deadlocks on your external doors and ensure any hinges are on the inside • Don’t leave keys in hiding places outside your home. Burglars know most of the hiding places • If you are planning to go away, arrange to have your mail cleared (either by your neighbours or speak to your local post office about holding your mail) and cancel any other regular deliveries such as milk and the paper. Even if you stopped your mail, you may still receive junk mail and local newspapers • Advise relatives or neighbours when you will be home and give them emergency contact details • If you buy a new appliance for your home, such as a television or home computer, be sure to crush and conceal boxes in your rubbish • Photograph and keep a written register of all valuables with serial numbers. Recording the model and serial numbers of valuable items will help police locate your property more easily.

They can be engraved with a number unique to you such as your driver’s licence number • Store valuable documents such as insurance policies and asset registers with your solicitor or bank • Sore emergency contact numbers into your phone memory and label them clearly so as to allow fast dialing in an emergency • Every six months or so, inspect your home as if you have been locked out with your keys.

How would you get in? Examine any weak spots and be mindful that if you can get inside, so could someone else

Grey Power Nelson

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TRAVELS OF A NELSON GAL Episode 6 Arriving in Dover in July and after driving left-hand drive vehicles in USA, Ecuador, several Caribbean islands and Europe, suddenly we were faced with having to cope with a righthand driving country in a left-hand drive vehicle.

That took some getting used to! But, intrepid Kiwi’s that we were we soon managed.

There was one occasion where we actually parked illegally on no-parking lines and were being approached by a parking warden, so I quickly said to Kiwi “speak Dutch”, since the Combi had Dutch plates on it. He did, and all we got was a warning to obey the road signage

- so, there are advantages to Pavement (heart of the financial area) and we continplaying dumb!

By the time we reached Eng- ued to leave the van where it land, we had already been was, parked on a wide street away from NZ for almost under a street lamp, while 18 months so it felt good to we did our first London pub experience. It be in an Englishwas a live-in speaking country job with meals again – if only I provided, so could have understood the acthe pay wasn’t that great but cents! The first enough to surthing was to get vive on and a feed of fish & chips (sadly, I was save some. A disappointed) great thing about this pub and visit a Laundromat. The next was that it was practically thing was to look Maggie Kerr for work as funds next-door to were diminishing fast. So, the Barbican Centre where we headed for Epping Forest there were always free conarea where we could leave certs on Sundays, so we got the van and travel into Lon- culture as well. It was also don on the train each day. a Monday-Friday pub, so we We found jobs within 4 days got weekends off to explore at a busy pub in Finsbury London and would often

train back to Epping to collect the van and go camping somewhere in the area.

Kiwi worked the downstairs bar with the rest of the men, while I worked the upstairs bar with another Kiwi girl.

This pub only ever employed NZer’s because they reckoned Kiwis were the best workers.

I have to say the lunch time drinking habits of the bankers and financial wizards of the area was an eye-opener. They would arrive about 11.30am and not leave until at least 1.30pm and then, of course, would be back at 4.30pm for the evening session!

But, after 2 months, we decided to move on and found jobs at a pub/restaurant called the White Horse in Enfield, North London, where we were made really welcome. This was an-

Here at Queen Street Pharmacy we are so much more than a chemist We’re family owned and operated and those values are passed on to our customers. We know how important a good listening ear is and even more, a clear explanation. All of our staff are highley trained and know their stuff.

As well as prescriptions we have one of Nelson’s largest range of cosmetics, perfumes and accesories and a strong collection of natural remedies.

Plus we will deliver to your home,* all you have to do is call. That includes prescriptions. For same day delivery simply ask your doctor to fax perscription to us on 543 9037 before 4.30pm.

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other live-in job with meals, but this time we felt like part of the family and were actually able to save most of our wages. We were at the White Horse for our first UK Christmas and all the staff was treated to a full Christmas dinner prepared by Sonya & Jon, the proprietors. The pub was about 400 years old and had these crazy little passage-ways and low ceilings upstairs in the living quarters. I spent most of my time in the kitchen, preparing entrees, doing dishes, takings orders in the restaurant, and generally trying to keep the young chef on target since he had a bit of a drug habit!

I made Christmas cakes for the dessert cabinet and was even asked for the recipe on one occasion (yep, I’d taken a small folder of my own NZ recipes on the voyage). Once Christmas 1987 was over, we hit the road again and headed north to Lowestoft on the east coast, in time for Kiwi to enrol for a one year

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course in wooden boat building at the ITCWB in Oulton Broad.

For the first few days we stayed with a lovely couple in their B&B with their family of dogs and, a couple of days after Kiwi had started his tuition, we were offered a bed-sit room in the main house on a farm/ park on the northern outskirts of Lowestoft, where some of the other course participants were living in caravans. And this was home for the next 11 months, and an interesting time that turned out to be!

Jerry, the farm owner, also had a mechanical workshop out in the barn in conjunction with another chap, which was handy because the Combi was starting to show signs of old age.

Kiwi was able to car-pool with the other guys, so I started to look for work.

After all, somebody had to pay for the vehicle repairs, the course fees, and the living expenses. And that, dear reader, is where we will pick up next time.

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Changes to the Road Rules

Grey Power Nelson

Change the give way rules for turning traffic

By Eric Davy This is going to have a significant impact on the use of Nelsons Roads and I cannot stress enough that you must be aware of the changes. The right hand rule has been returned to what it was as you all learnt it before 1974.

Note; This action would change the current give way rule

The Old Rule since 1974

Second change to this rule is that if you are on a through road such as Nayland Road and you are turning right into Hamill Grove and a car is exiting Hamill Grove and turn-

The Old Rule since 1974

The above changes apply at uncontrolled intersections or intersections that have the same control features. Like traffic lights, Stop Signs or Give Way signs. e.g. Main Road Stoke and Songer Street or Vanguard Street and Toi Toi Street.

to require traffic turning right to give way to all traffic including those turning left into the same road.

This means that if you are turning right you give way to all straight through and left turning traffic. The RED car always gives way in this situation.

The new rule from the 25 March 2012

ing right, because you are on a through road you have the right of way.

The RED car always gives way in this situation.

The new rule from the 25 March 2012

A new rule that has been added “A driver exiting a driveway must giveway to a vehicle on a roadway, including a vehicle turning or about to turn right into the driveway�

For example into and out of car parks at shopping areas.

Grey Power Nelson

Other changes to the Road Rules that people have raised.

You will find around Nelson at some Traffic Light Controlled Intersections the markings as shown below. Advanced stop box for cyclists at an intersection.

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The markings are now done in Nelson with Green Paint. This allows cyclists to see and be seen and to let them get clear of the traffic first. If you see cyclists in this situation ensure you give them room to move when the lights change etc.

If you have any questions please call Eric Davy at 547 3322 or email eric_diane. davy@xtra.co.nz

Transport Report

By Addo Mulders For many years Nelson Grey Power has asked Nelson City council to make it safer for pedestrians to cross Rocks Road at the place where Day’s Track finishes.

Recently mention in “Live nelson” is was proposed to create a pedestrian refuge in that area.

A meeting was organized with the Nelson City Council Traffic engineer and information was obtained as to where this refuge might be situated.

Some car parks just before the curve on the road leading to Nelson will be lost. This will be unavoidable.

As elected transport spokesperson, on behalf of Nelson Grey Power members it was agreed to be in favour of the proposal with the understanding that the loss of car parks will be minimal.

BUYING NOW Heritage Antiques • Gold & Silver • Coins & Notes • Medals & Badges • Military Memorabilia We are currently buying Coins (Pennies, Sixpences & Threepences etc) Watches (Wrist & Pocket working or not) Old Gold & Costume Jewellery. All Manner of Rare & Collectible items considered.

For a friendly, no obligation appraisal, call Benjamin Heritage Antiques Benjamin Hodges and Collectables Licensed Second Hand Antique & Collectible Dealer

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Grey Power Nelson

GreyPower Presents

The Leisure Travel Programme

Dear Readers, All aboard for the most talked about trips in town.

Whether it’s a pleasant regional day trip or an all inclusive no fuss tour somewhere around the country we have something for you. With our fantastic drivers, top quality touring coaches and genuinely well thought out outings we really stand behind what we’re doing - as do many of our happy travellers.

Whether you have questions, comments or wish to place a booking, Christine and I look forward to hearing from you.

See you soon on the coach!

Tom Heaphy – Tour Coordinator

DAY TRIPS

Please note: meals are not included in the day-trip prices, unless specifically stated. Times of pick-up/ departure will be between 8am and 10am and you will be notified a day or two prior, according to pick-up schedule.

Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 January – The Naked Possum, Langford Store and Collingwood - $25 (Due to popularity we are taking two trips on two different days) Today we will get on the road as early as possible, grab morning tea in Motueka and then head over ‘the hill’, past Takaka and out to the Naked Possum for lunch and to explore the fascinating shop or surrounding short walks. On the return we will call into the Langford Store – a historic general store and post office still run by the Langford’s who opened for business in 1928. Apparently a great place to get a pot of tea and some toffee.

Depending on time restraints we will then return via Collingwood and then Takaka.

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Wednesday 15 February – Blenheim and Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre - $45 (includes Omaka entry) Due to popular demand we have decided to go back to the ever-changing Omaka Aviation Centre. Our day starts off as usual with a morning tea stop along the way and then getting your own lunch in Blenheim. After lunch we head to Omaka to experience the Knights of the Sky Great War Exhibition along with much more. After this we will make our way back home.

Tuesday 13 March – Moutere Area and Butterfly Enclosure - $25 Today we’ll venture out to the Moutere area stopping for morning tea, a possible gallery visit and for lunch in Upper Moutere with the option of eating at the historic Moutere Inn. After lunch it’s off to the Sunrise Valley where we’ll visit a Butterfly enclosure to witness the butterflies and learn a little bit about their lives and the related conservation. We can also view their pottery gallery (entry donation is included in the trip price). From there we’ll stop for afternoon tea on the way back before drop-offs.

TOURS

Please note: all tour prices are based on twin share accommodation. Single supplements and double rooms are available on request (subject to availability). All tours are subject to minimum numbers.

Christmas Tour, 23 – 28 December – Tour is full sorry North Island Tour, 16 – 24 April 2012 (tentatively) – Price TBC Next year, due to popular demand we are heading back up north for our big tour. The preliminary plan at this stage is to head away for 9-days, 8-nights around the central North Island and up to the Coromandel Peninsula with some special new destinations and activities along the way.

Once again, we ask for expressions of interest. When we have finalised the plans and cost we will send out an itinerary to those who have put their names on the interested list. Putting your name on the interested list is in no way a commitment to travel, simply a request for more information when it becomes available.

For bookings, full itineraries or more information please call Tom or Christine

Ph 539 0834

Grey Power Nelson

News

The Volunteer – God Bless Them!

A rare breed they – the volunteers Opposite to the profiteers They give their time, seek no return Of gratitude they little earn Many will be shocked to find, When the day of judgment nears, That there’s a special place in heaven Set aside for volunteers.

Furnished with big recliners.

Satin couches and foot stools; Where there’s no committee chairman, No group leaders or car pools, No eager team that needs a coach, No bazaar and no bake sale.

There will be nothing to staple, Not one thing to fold or mail.

Telephone lists will be outlawed, But a finger snap will bring Cool drinks and gourmet dinners And treats fit for a king You ask: “Who will serve these privileged few And work for all they’re worth?”

“Why, all those who reap the benefits And not once volunteer on earth!”

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Local Body Report PRINCIPAL SPONSOR OF

Another Rotary Community Fundraiser

ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND 29 JANUARY 11AM - 6PM Original voice of Little River Band

GLENN SHORROCK Plus the two Kiwi classics Sharon O’Neill & Mark Williams The Peasants The Wizard Band The House of Kramit Earlybird $40 (until 20 January)

Full $50 (Booking fee applies)

Children 12 and under free (entertainment provided)

Greys Winery Bryant Lane Brightwater

TICKETS AVAILABLE • Online - www.bwff.co.nz • iSite Centres • Phone bookings - 0800 635 827 (NELTAS)

By Errol Millar The last couple of months have been very quiet for us with the Rugby World Cup being the focus of local attention. What an amazing experience This committee is continuing to monitor the Nelson City Council’s proposal to seek a plan change to increase the noise levels for events etc on Council owned parks. Their proposed increased noise levels are well in excess of world health standards and people living in close proximity to such venues i.e. Botanics, Founders Park, etc should be very wary of what is being proposed...

It is disappointing that the Rocks Road v Victory Square debate has reared its ugly head so soon again, and equally disappointing to see the same old, same old’s blowing their trumpets for their own agendas, while having little regard for ALL who would be affected We must remember that trucks have been using Rocks Road (not forgetting it is a state highway) for decades and it has not suddenly become some “Riviera” type setting. The Railway Reserve is NOT the “be all” alternative. Victory does not have a waterfront but it does have hills and valleys, and if those determined to see a heavy traffic route through this area, please tell all the residents of this proposed route

where the fumes from these vehicles will disperse. At present the waterfront route provides a natural disbursement of fumes with the sea breeze and being open to the west. And we must not forget that there are many educational institutions on both routes. I wonder if those so determined to have the southern link are giving any consideration to the health and wellbeing of the Victory community, especially the children. Neither route is ideal but shifting the problem is like moving the goalposts. May common sense prevail?

Interesting to see NCC is very interested in bidding for the under 20 Soccer World Cup. As long as it does not cost the ratepayers millions of dollars I am sure we will all get behind the venture and would make it a great success like the RWC... With Trafalgar Park upgraded it would be a crime to see it continually empty... Cricket may be gone forever but the number of sports that could utilize this facility is huge.

The NCC has a responsibility to see the park fully utilised and be very pro-active in ensuring the facility is affordable for even the minor sports.

Both the TDC and NCC rate increases in 2011 were much more responsible than in the past, may the change in direction continue into 2012 and beyond. We will be there to keep them honest!

Wishing all readers a very merry Christmas and all the best for 2012.

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Nelson Grey Power Association Inc

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2012 Brightwater Wine and Food Festival Hometown girl Sharon O’Neill is just one of three international acts performing at the 9th Brightwater Wine & Food Festival next year.

Event Manager and Rotary member, Glenda Buschl says she is very excited about the festival line up.

“Sharon loves coming back to perform in Nelson and we are thrilled she’ll be part of the festival,” Glenda says. “With her hits Maxine, Losing you, Asian Paradise, Words, and Danced in the Fire, Sharon became one of the most popular female artists in Australia and New Zealand.”

Headline act for the festival is Glenn Shorrock, a founding member of Aussie super band, Little River Band. LRB had a string of hits including Home on a Monday, Cool Change and Help is on its way.

“Everyone knows a LRB song,“ says Glenda, “so I expect the dance floor to

be busy.”

Completing the line-up is Mark Williams. Mark had hits with Yesterday Was Just the Beginning of My Life, It Doesn’t Matter Anymore and the 1990 single, Show No Mercy. In 2005 Mark became the vocalist for the reformed Dragon.

Glenda says Glenn, Sharon and Mark have performed together, toured together and been friends for years. She says they are a good mix for the festival and will put on a great show for the crowds.

Three local bands, The Peasants, The Wizard Band and The House of Kramit are also performing at the festival. The indie-pop group The Peasants won the 2011 Smokefreerockquest with one of the judges describing lead singer Georgia Nott as ‘one of the best female singers in New Zealand’. The Wizard Band is made up of some of the best jazz and pop musicians in the industry.

There’s a significant change in date for the 2012 Brightwater Wine and Food Festival. The festival is now on Sunday, 29 January. Glenda says the commit-

CASH PAID Wanted to buy;

• Stamps • Coins • Bank Notes • Medals • Badges

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• Silver • Tools • Gold • Jewellery • Paintings

• Maori Artifacts • Old Firearms • Early Photographs • Shed Items and more...

tee shifted the date to Nelson anniversary weekend so visitors and locals can enjoy the festival over a relaxed long weekend.

The 2012 festival includes a new hospitality zone, featuring corporate tents and cooking demonstrations.

“The hospitality zone will be the place to be at the festival, so we’re urging people to treat their team or clients to a table and a tent and the tastiest of al fresco fare,“ says Glenda.

Festival stallholders will provide a variety of gourmet foods and award winning local wine, beer and ciders.

The Brightwater Wine and Food Festival is a Richmond Rotary fundraising event, that has been able to distribute over $200,000 to local charities over the years. The festival committee will decide after the festival who the beneficiaries will be.

The Brightwater Wine & Food Festival is on Sunday, 29 January 2012 between 11am - 6pm, in Bryant Road, Brightwater. Tickets will be available soon through the festival website, www. bwff.co.nz, or at i-SITE centres.

Marsden House presents

‘Snippets of History’ APPLES IN WAR-TIME In 1941 apples were not considered an essential war-time export so the entire crop of 1.5 million cases was denied export and had to be sold in New Zealand.

The Government took over marketing and began an “apple campaign” with an apple song and an apple play on radio, lots of apple recipes, and cases of apples as a prize for radio quiz shows.

12,000 cases a week went into the nation’s schools.

For more Snippets of History contact Marsden House. Volume One and Two available for $15 each; or in a two-disc audio CD pack for $25. Proceeds are donated to local Nelson charities.

or anything Old & Interesting

Tim Gladstone 0800 65 39 35 03 548 5235

Support and care through your grief

Ph 03 548 2770

www.marsdenhouse.co.nz 41 Nile Sreet East, Nelson

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Grey Power Nelson

Something to Think About

richmond

OPEN 7 DAYS

For Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Celebrate Summer

with Robbie’s Apply for your Robbie’s Loyalty Card now to earn bonus dollars

Large Menu to suit all Tastes Call in for Morning/Afternoon Tea Tea/Coffee Cookies/Slice/Cake

$12.90 Lunch Specials Every Day

Ph: 544 7289

321 lower Queen St, Richmond

Over the past few months, Hopefully, some will keep I have attended meetings their vision in mind, and on Aged Care, After Hours achieve it. Some will go Doctors Services and Po- on to do great things in the litical Meetings. I went public sector, quite a few to Wellington with the will be taking to the skies Advocacy Group and had and seeking employment meetings with Politicians, overseas, but all will have Government Dedebt to pay back. partments, Age Something our Concern, Nursgeneration did es Organisation, not have.

Combined Trade Youth unemUnions and Stuployment bedent Union. tween the 17 – 24 I was taken to year age group is task about the high. The cost of meetings with living over the the Student Unpast year has rision and the CTU Pam Schouten en at an alarming – why was this Zone 5 Director, rate and more of necessary?

Federation Board our children are We all have conliving lives that Member. cerns in common. are less then equiCost of living, Youth un- table. employment, Children in I have had to learn a great Poverty, the Green Paper deal over the past year. on Children at risk and The Chairman of the FedStudent debt. These are eration Health Committee only a few of the concerns died, Jo Millar from Dunthat are climbing out of the edin and I, had to step up. I have probably made some woodwork.

Grey Power has not over mistakes, but that goes the last few years, been a with the territory. voice for only the older I make no apologies for the person. Most of us have stand Grey Power is taking children and grandchil- at the moment, our main concern is the elderly, but dren.

Our senior and university our children and grandstudents are in the main, children are of great conforward thinking, have cern as well. This is one great ideas, and some have of the reasons why we are great vision.

These are expanding our interests. the people who will have a May you all have a happy great say in how New Zea- Christmas, may the New land goes forward over the Year be kind to you all, next 10,20 or 30 years. take care of each other.

Remember to check us out at www.greypowernelson.co.nz

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Isel House Charitable Trust Volunteer Opportunities Isel House is built of wood, brick and stone and was built by the Marsden family between the years of 1894 and 1915.

It is registered as number 1592 with the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.

It resides in approximately 4 hectares of wood lands called Isel Park and is owned by Nelson City Council. It is leased to Isel House Charitable Trust who has undertaken the task of restoring the property and making it publicly accessible.

Currently there are 6 rooms open to the public displaying original fine furnishings from 17th – 19th century Europe, stories of the people of Isel and Stoke, 19th century building work and 21st century restoration methods.

Funds for restoration and maintenance come purely from grants, fund

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raising efforts and admission by donation.

To open to the public Isel House depends on volunteers.

Isel House is open for visitors 6 days a week (Tues – Sun, 11am to 4pm) from October to April, weekends only in May and by appointment at other times.

The hours each day are divided into two shifts of 2.5 hours each (11.30am to 1.30pm and 1.30pm to 4.00pm).

We also need help from volunteers for various projects from time to time.

If you: • Like to meet and greet people; • Could explain the history and layout

For compassionate and professional help at a difficult time...

of the House, and its contents (once you are familiar with that).

• Enjoy quiet surroundings; • Don’t mind being on your own at times; • Are able to climb stairs; • Have an interest in preserving local history; • Can handle cash and basic information recording; • Would like to find out more and/or volunteer your time and services Please phone us on 547 1347 or email us at isel@ihug.co.nz.

Specialising in:

Our brand new funeral home offers a warm and inviting Chapel, a modern, comfortable catering lounge including outdoor patio, plus free parking in our large new car park.

• Latest Technology European Dentures • Excellent fit and extremely natural appearance • Cosmetic Dentures to support and improve Facial Structures

• Funeral planning • Inflation proof prepaid funeral trust fund

• Implant assisted dentures

• Chapel facilities • Full catering facilities & services

• Total Professional Care for Denture Patients

Special Offer

Double Grey Power Discount for Grey Power members 31 December 2011

Serving the Nelson & Tasman Districts since 1862

Gilbert Matravers

Office & Chapel - 164 Tahunanui Drive, Nelson

Clinical Dental Prosthetist

Phone (03) 546 5700 Fax (03) 548 5513

0800 386 372

For 24 Hour Personal Service

www.shoneandshirley.com

We are proud to be associated with Nelson Grey Power. Present your membership card for a 10% discount on all caskets if account paid in full by the due date.

Our guarantee is in your smile

Ph/Fax: 548 1478 0800 2 SMILE 35 Waimea Road, Nelson

Experience Counts

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Over 72 speciality stores in a relaxed, friendly environment Over 800 Free Parks Including 14 Access Parks and over 30 ten minute parks all right outside one of our 4 entrances A delightful a place to shop, meet friends and enjoy some great food and drink

OPEN 7 DAYS

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Diabetes Awareness

produced.

Type 2 diabetes can mostly be prevented by choosing a healthier lifestyle such as being regularly active and eating healthier foods. This lifestyle is important both for people with diabetes and for people who may be at risk of developing diabetes. It’s also good for the whole family or whanau.

The good news is that diabetes can be managed, and help is available to help you do this.

In the Nelson Tasman region there are free community education sessions available for anyone wanting more information about Type 2 diabetes, Diabetes NZ Nelson has an information centre in Halifax Street, Nelson and your general practice team can offer lots of support No WOF, No Reg, No Petrol, No License! options if needed.

For information 10 cents of electricity can take you 35 kilometres. about the free 2 year guarantee. community diabetes education sessions phone Bee Williamson on 0800 731 317 Grey Power Discount or email Bee.WilLithium battery, charger, lights, mudguards, rack, comfy seat, liamson@nbph. puncture resistant tyres and disc brakes all included! org.nz On display at Avanti Plus Cycles Nelson and Village Cycles, Richmond.

For more information about diabetes awareness week visit www. diabetes.org.nz

Diabetes is caused by having too much glucose (sugar) in the blood. This happens because either the pancreas cannot make insulin, or the insulin it does make doesn’t work properly.

• More than 200,000 people in New Zealand have diabetes – and about 90% of these people have Type 2 Diabetes • An estimated further 100,000 people have diabetes, but have not had it diagnosed • Every day 40 more people are diagnosed with diabetes • Diabetes costs New Zealand over $250 million a year, and could cost over a billion dollars by 2021 • In Type 1 diabetes, no insulin is produced, in Type 2 diabetes insulin does not work properly or not enough is

Call Jace: 03 545 1122 www.electricbikehub.co.nz

24/7 Fuel Spring Grove Service Station and Workshop Stockists of

Main Rd North Ph: 541 8444 Wakefield, Nelson Fax: 541 8445 Email: springgrove@xtra.co.nz

Grey Power Nelson

Health Report

By Carole Currie Nothing much going on in the Health sector, but as usual we don’t hear a lot, till it’s too late.

The new dental bus is working well, sets itself up at a specific site and the parents bring the children in. It has all the facilities of a practicing dentist, i.e., x-ray, and latest technology.

Let’s hope it gets fully utilised.

The sleepover bill for carers has gone through Parliament; this has been a bone of contention for quite some time. This is more in line with those with mental problems rather than a home care situation.

The NZ Aged Care Association is looking into improving conditions for their members. Their members care for over 40,000 elderly throughout NZ and this number is growing fast as the baby boomers come on board and start enjoying the problems associated with growing old.

Christmas is a family time, which can also bring hassles, try and enjoy this time; it can change quickly and become a lonely time for some. Look after your health, don’t over indulge as you do pay for it in some form or other, most of us put weight on, and we all have to watch how much rich food we partake in, as we all enjoy food, but it can make us pay for over indulgence!!

Take care and enjoy the summer, but don’t get sunburned!!

Stoke Seniors ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER Wednesday December 14 from 11.30am in the Stoke Memorial Hall. Cost: $20.

Entertainment by The Strum-Pets Ukulele Group and “Good Time Country” CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR Tuesday December 20.

Depart Centre @ 9pm. Transport: $5 BIG BUS TRIP TO CANAAN DOWNS & PICNIC Monday January 23 2012 COST: $30. Leave Centre @ 9.30am All Bookings and Enquiries to Stoke Seniors, Main Road, Stoke Ph: 547-2660

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Nelson Grey Power Association Inc PO Box 2190, Stoke Nelson 7041