www.lifestyles55.net
January 2021
FAST DENTURES
New Happy Year!
947-1807
Don’t forget to Wash Your Hands!
Raising money for the performing arts one step at a time
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Forecast calls for tasty comfort food
The Paddlewheel and the downtown Bay join Eaton’s in history John Einarson
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was saddened to learn of the closing of the iconic downtown Hudson’s Bay Co. store last month. Back in the days when Portage Avenue was the focal point for Winnipeg shoppers and not suburban-based malls, The Bay was always my first choice for clothes. My parents clothed me in Bay threads and as a result, I was a seasoned Bay browser from an early age and the allegiance remained. Every August I would outfit myself in new shirts, ties, slacks, shoes and sports jackets from their secondfloor menswear department, ready to start a new teaching year. But more than shopping for clothes, The Bay’s sixth floor restaurant was my number one downtown destination. The Paddlewheel Restaurant holds warm memories
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s we begin this New Year there is really a kind of hush all over the world. So much has taken place this year as to make it a most unusual year we have faced in our lifetime. But out of all this isolation and dramatic effect many truly beautiful things have emerged as well. Winter brings with it a great sense of “tucking in” and staying the course as we begin to
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New made in Canada Tesla battery is a game changer
John Einarson (right) with Burton Cummings at one of the more colourful events to grace The Paddlewheel. for me and many others. Opened on October 29, 1954 as The Paddle Wheel Buffet, the Paddlewheel’s riverboat and prairie landscape motif, complete with spinning paddlewheel and wishing well, quickly became a popular
lunch spot for shoppers. I can recall my mother taking me there as a youngster before I was old enough to go on my own. Initially, unescorted ladies could sit in the Crinoline Court surrounded by a picket u 8 ‘The Paddlewheel’
There’s a kind of hush all over the world Jim Pappas
428 Portage ave
Guess who’s coming for dinner!
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Goodbye, old friend
208 Power Bldg
semi-hibernate to get through the cold and snow. But the snow and the cold have a wonderful effect on the earth as it puts everything to rest for an extended period. When we look out at the wide expanse of white and see the trees barren of their leaves we have sometimes a magnificent panorama of crystals and a sense of calm. As prairie people we love the landscape and know that this period of rest will be followed by a Spring full of regeneration and joy and hope. So many people love the winter time
I am a senior. I am feeling isolated, my health is declining but I want to stay at home.
Give the gift of companionship to your loved one this holiday season.
and the outdoor pursuits that it brings. Skiing, both cross country and downhill; snowshoeing; trekking; outdoor hockey and just the idea of trying to be one with the landscape can be exciting and thrilling, too. In fact several friends tell me that to them this is the most joyous period of the year as they get a chance to be one with nature and know its serene beauty too. A dear friend who is a renowned Canadian artist tells me that she has been walking daily in the woods and u 8 ‘A hush’
Peter Holle with his Tesla.
Clinton Desveaux, Frontier Centre for Public Policy
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anadians have no idea all of the fancy Tesla battery technology has mostly been developed in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Dalhousie University has partnered with the American Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturer, and created what is commonly referred to as the Tesla Dalhousie Battery Lab. The new 4680 Dry-Cell battery is going into Tesla vehicles sometime between February and April 2021. Here are 6 things, in descending order, you need to know for 2021 as civilization begins a serious transformation from fossil fuel road transportation to EV. 6 – Range: 996 km (which equals 619 miles), one can drive from Portland, Maine to Washington DC or Halifax, Nova Scotia to Quebec City on a single charge. Gone are the days people worried an EV wasn’t able to drive long distances. The 4680 Dry-Cell has changed the game because gasoline and diesel cars can’t go the same distance on a tank of fossil fuels…When you have driven 996 km, it’s time to stretch your legs and have a meal! 5 – Charge Times: Multiple reports have u 5 ‘Tesla battery'
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A year in review L
ately, I’ve included in these articles information about mental health resources. As we continue to battle this virus into the New Year, I want to take a moment to address this topic once more. I think we can all agree that this past year has been like no other. For many of us it’s been an incredibly hard year. Please remember that your mental health is a vital aspect of your well being. While we have been anxious and stressed in challenging ways, we need to take care of our mental health. Reach out to family and friends, check in with others, and be sure to access the available mental health Speaker Myrna Driedger curated a time capsule to celebrate Manitoba’s 150th birthday, co-chaired a restoration committee for the resources. The Manitoba government has Manitoba Legislature, and engineered remote attendance on Zoom. set up virtual counselling sessions available by calling 1-844-218-2955 as well current map of Manitoba, memorabilia opinion, the finest in North America. ried on. With only one third of MLAs in as an online virtual therapy program. celebrating women gaining the right to At 100 years old, it has kept its timeless the chamber all public health orders were Find out more information at https:// vote and the progress made in the last magnificence throughout all these years, followed. Members wore masks, used www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/ 100 years, and information but as with any building, upkeep is need- hand sanitizer, and were seated outside bewell/ . Please do not hesabout the COVID-19 pan- ed. The Legislative Building Centennial of their regular places to accommodate itate to reach out to these demic. There are over 70 Restoration and Preservation Act sets out safe distances. The other two thirds of free of charge, confidential items in the time capsule a 15¬-year plan to thoughtfully research, the Members participated virtually. We mental health resources. including a mystery item. plan, and carry out projects that will en- experienced only a few minor technical Every year, as one year The time capsule itself is a sure our building remains magnificent glitches. I am so glad that our Assembly comes to an end and anpiece of art. Designed by for our future generations. Currently un- created the capacity to carry out this new other one begins, I like to local artist Darren Sawki, derway is the restoration of our beautiful and unprecedented alternative to regular reflect on my highlights it will not be hidden away rotunda. proceedings. I can’t count the times I’ve from the past year. Here are like many other time capI’ve led a team to develop gavel-to-gav- had to say “If the Member would please a few of them: sules, it will be on full dis- el broadcasting of our House proceedings unmute!” To celebrate the 100th play in our legislature until as well as adding virtual attendance via While this unprecedented pandemic anniversary of the Maniit is opened 100 years from ZOOM for MLAs. COVID-19 has posed year has led to many challenges it has also Myrna Driedger toba Legislature and the now. Oh, to be a fly on the a challenge like we’ve never seen before. helped us to develop innovative ways of Broadway province of Manitoba’s wall when future Manito- As Speaker, it fell to me to ensure that doing our jobs. We’ve had to stretch our Journal 150th birthday, I curated bans open the capsule! your representatives were able to fulfill thinking in different ways and we have a time capsule. This time I have served as the Co- their responsibilities to Manitobans and risen to those challenges. Manitobans all capsule is a wonderful snap Chair for the Manitoba advocate for constituents in the house. over our province have worked together shot in time that will be opened 100 Legislative Assembly Building Restora- Balancing these responsibilities with the to flatten the curve. Although this fight is years from now. There are many items tion Committee. This committee is the safety of MLAs led us to use Zoom in not yet over, I am grateful for the many that represent our beautiful province result of legislation passed by all mem- the house proceedings. This was a mam- people in our province working hard to and rich culture. Some of these include: bers of the Legislative Assembly for the moth task and I am grateful to the many flatten the curve. a beaded tobacco pouch, a soapstone purpose to fund the upkeep of our beau- team members who worked tirelessly to Hon. Myrna Driedger is MLA for Roblin carving representing Inuit sculptors, a tiful building. Our legislature is, in my ensure our democratic proceedings car- and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
FINALLY 2021
Happy New Year
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whatsupwinnipeg.ca
January 2021
ISSUES IN THE NEWS
A little bit of philosophy to prepare us for 2021 I
Follow us online at: whatsupwinnipeg.ca Facebook: Lifestyles55 Twitter: @Lifestyles55 PUBLISHER Pegasus Publications Inc. DESIGN Cottonwood Publishing Services EDITOR Dorothy Dobbie dorothy@pegasuspublications.net EDITOR Emeritus Joan Cohen ART DIRECTOR Karl karl@pegasuspublications.net GENERAL MANAGER Ian Leatt ian.leatt@pegasuspublications.net CONTRIBUTORS Clinton Desveaux, Dorothy Dobbie, Myrna Driedger, John Einarson, Merry-Sue AdairGill, Adam Glynn, George Hacking, Jim Ingebrigtsen, Lorne Kearns, Kevin Klein, Ian Leatt, Brenda Martinusen, Nicole Matiation, Fred Morris, Manitoba Seniors Coalition, Manitoba Association of Senior Centres, Connie Newman, Jim Pappas, Peggy Pendergast, Brent Poole, Senaka Samarasinghe, Trudy Schroeder, Elly Spencer, Krystal Stokes, Sherrie Versluis, Wayne Weedon, Robert Wrigley, Nathan Zassman, Daria Zmiyiwsky. Canadian Publications mail product Sales agreement #40027604 ADVERTISING 1-888-680-2008 info@pegasuspublications.net SUBSCRIPTIONS If you would like to receive Lifestyles 55, we offer both monthly newspaper and online formats. To place your order, call 204-940-2700. Subscriptions are $48.00 per year, plus tax. American Express, MasterCard, Visa & cheque accepted. To view a back issue online visit lifestyles55.net
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am having a hard time getting old. No, not because I have aches and pains or because life is harder, but because I can’t feel myself as old. From what I hear, you are supposed to be conscious of this. That you should feel tired, worn out, beaten down, ready to “retire” from life. I don’t feel any of those things. True, I do enjoy luxuriating in my bed a little longer in the mornings when I wake up at six because it is warm there and because I don’t have to drive to the office anymore (but neither does anyone else right now), and I do enjoy . . .what? Can’t think of much different from before. In truth there are a few privileges. I do love having Ian to run the company and Shauna to be the editor of the Dorothy Dobbie Gardener magazine and the Hub, but I love being able to write for them all and to have time to pursue other fascinating things. It is nice not to have to carry all that burden alone. But being old? Sorry. I just don’t get it. Maybe I am one of the lucky ones. Since I had my little heart issue about a dozen years ago and now have to take a bunch of stupid pills, I have never felt better. I don’t have a lot of aches and pains – well, a few, but nothing serious or that I can’t deal with. Mostly, everyday, I am excited to wake up and learn something new, to take on a fresh challenge, to discover a new opportunity. Yes, I do have a few more wrinkles in my skin than I used to – sometimes they surprise me, but then I have to laugh and ask myself what else I should have expected at almost 76. I like to think of my friend, Midge, with whom I roomed when I was in Vietnam last February. At 84, she merrily sailed through a six-km bike ride while I failed cycling, dismally. (I fully intend to move those damn bikes out of the basement next summer). I doubt that I am alone. While there are folks who are ready to take life easier at my age, I just want to proclaim to the world that doesn’t include all of us. I still have a lot of living to do. And I bet you do, too! There are things that come with living a long time that I do notice, though: I am more patient and a little less demanding (I think). However, I still expect things to be done right. Sorry, just “good enough”, is never good enough. If it is worth doing at all, it is worth doing it the best you possibly can. Nor do I have much patience with those folks who take credit for the ideas of others or run to the head of the parade and pretend they are leaders when they see a trend happening. I think good ideas are usually an amalgam of a number of inputs and, if I am lucky enough to put the two and twos together, I like to credit the first one who gave me the idea. That way they are encouraged to continuing feeding these creative thoughts to the rest of us to use in building something bigger and better.
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My 84-year-old friend, Midge, cycled 6 km in Vietnam like a pro. I also hope I don’t take myself too seriously. I know that I often chuckle at the ridiculous mistakes I make. I think that, too, is a gift of accumulated years. I still love to learn and am still trying to figure things out. I guess that is a lifetime quest for the human race. I love the energy and enterprise of young people and try hard not to interfere with their utopian dreams. Who knows? They may not be able to change the world completely, but each generation has made it a little better based on the same blind optimism and determination. Who would want to squash that? They will learn soon enough that human nature militates against communism, but youthful belief that is possible perhaps instills some balance in a necessarily greedy world. Each morning, I am glad to greet the day with a sharper appreciation of its beauty and at its end, I am happy to allow myself to ease into a blissful rest knowing that sleep is a healer, not a hindrance that interrupts my endless busy-ness. But I am glad of the busy-ness that fills every hour with urgency and excitement. I look at things differently now, because I actually take the time to look, thinking back to all those incredible experiences in my life that I allowed to slip by, unremarked and unappreciated. I have learned that when you really look, you see so much more. Life has a luminescence that underlies every experience. It goes on in its perfect way in spite of all the chaos that surrounds us and there is beauty even in the most painful moments. But, yes, I have a hard time getting “old”. I am looking forward to all those new things I am going to learn from the earth and from others. You can’t do that if you are old and have given in to the accumulation of time. Here on the cusp of a new year, I am eager to explore the future, try new things, and take part in the unfolding of the universe as it carries us into what can only be a brighter day.
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3
Recovering from the impacts of COVID-19
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• The provision of approximately $150,000 to each ecovering from the impacts of COVID-19 is a top priority for everyone in Winnipeg. Our ward from the Provincial $50 million grant for three municipal government must lead with a real years. And there are some concerns: commitment to a renewed and strength• The Hotel industry identified finanened partnership with all communities cial issues that are not addressed. How throughout the city. The amount of was the projected accommodation tax funding from federal and provincial levrevenue determined? Have we considels of government has been greater than ered the long-term impact on future tax we’ve experienced in years. But are the revenues? investments reflected equally across the • We are adding management posicity and do they answer concerns resitions at a time when we have staff laiddents have shared? Unfortunately, I don’t off. There were no objectives provided believe they do. to review or salary details. COVID-19 has impacted every cor• Residents will pay more each year ner of our city. Families are struggling for water and sewer for the duration of in many areas of our city. They are conthis plan. cerned for what the future holds. They Councillor • The Vacancy Management line (a are looking for leadership. Small and Kevin Klein slush fund) is growing in departments medium sized local businesses are suffering. Thank you for supporting my Small Inside City Hall that have no historical requirement for such an accounting practice. What’s the Business COVID Relief Motion in your rationale behind that addition? budget. This is an example of how we • The city is negotiating the WFPS contract and can work together as one council in the best interests of residents and fight the adverse effects of COVID-19 soon will begin the WPS CBA. I found no reference to potential wage or benefit increases or details on new together. There are some positives in this proposal that I com- costs associated with the CBA’s up for renewal. Residents are telling me they’re not being heard in mend: • Financial support for small and medium sized this tabled budget. I receive calls and emails regularly from residents who have become victimized by crime. businesses. Residents have called police to learn nobody is com• Increased road renewal work. • Construction of a new North End Community ing. I have been made aware of several neighbourhoods across our city reporting increases in crime. Based Police Station.
Violent crime is up in 2020, and this budget provides no comfort to residents who are afraid. To be clear, I reached out to our CFO Mr. Olafson and Finance Chair, Councillor Gillingham via email on Monday November 23, 2020 at 10:38 am. I requested a meeting to review the budget once it was provided to the public, media and non-EPC councillors. I explained the time would allow us to review the budget and ensure I was aware of funds allocated to Charleswood-Tuxedo-Westwood, which is my responsibility. I had questions about allocations made city wide and reasoning behind some expenses. I was doing my due diligence to be supportive of the efforts made. To date I have not received a response to that request. It is difficult and sometimes next to impossible for any Councillor to fulfill their duties and responsibilities when information is withheld, reasoning is not provided, and the administration is elusive. I consider the budget tabled before us to be unfinished. It doesn’t address identified risks, there are unanswered questions, and unquantified data. All of which requires further attention. I remain committed to working with my council colleagues and the Mayor, to prepare a budget that; provides clear reasoning for spending, includes the actual input of all of councillors equally and provides a representative vision of all Winnipeggers. Winnipeg deserves a well-functioning and trustworthy municipal government. We can only achieve that goal together. Kevin Klein is the city councillor for Charleswood-Tuxedo-Westwood.
How dare you question my beliefs?!
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thought I could no longer be surprised at the ap- the upper class, including royalty. Wells read, studied, pearance of people, but I burst out laughing when and educated himself while questioning accepted beI saw an attractive young lady wearing a stainless liefs, abandoning any he viewed to be fairy tales. Despite the strange headgear, by her steel colander on her head while quietly reading such a profound, thought-proreading by herself. I had a second survoking book, I was curious to know what prise when I saw what she was reading, this girl’s views on philosophy were. The New World Order, a serious treatise Cautiously, I requested, “I beg your paron war and peace, written by H.G. Wells don Miss, may I ask you a question?” eighty years ago. Looking up, she stated, “You are wonAt least two of Wells’ novels, The Invisdering why I’m wearing a spaghetti ible Man and The Time Machine, were strainer on my head. Well, it’s because bestsellers which were made into movI’m a Pastafarian, that’s why.” ies. Today, Wells’ serious non-fiction is “Actually, I wanted to ask if you like relatively unknown. In his day, Wells was that book.” accused of being a subversive because he “I was enjoying it”, she replied, “until preached equality of all people and that Wayne Weedon some silly old man interrupted me.” everyone should be educated enough to Embarrassed, I turned away. But, I think for themselves and not be waiting Food for couldn’t help wondering about the colfor orders from their “superiors”. Wells Thought ander. I soon discovered, in some counpointed out that kings are not placed on tries, The Church of the Flying Spaghetti their thrones by some god, but by their own muscle and treachery. Democracies proclaim Monster, known as Pastafarianism, has been recogequality, but most people are undereducated and made nised as a religion. Several jurisdictions have issued to feel like inferiors who must worship aristocracy driving licences with pictures of Pastafarians wearing and celebrities as if they were gods. Quite commonly, their pasta strainer. In some other places, Pastafarianwhen people are obsequious to “our betters”, includ- ism has been denied religious status, even though no ing royalty, clergy, and celebrities, they try to balance court has been able to prove that Pastafarianism is less the scales by searching for anyone they can feel supe- legitimate than any other religion. There is no proof rior to, smug about, and contemptuous of, which only that any form of god exists, or does not exist, includleads to stereotyping, bigotry, and racism. Wells pulled ing the Flying Spaghetti Monster. People have declared himself up from a family of impoverished commoners that no sane person would believe in a Flying Spaghetti to become a wealthy gentleman who hobnobbed with Monster. Pastafarians counter; if that is the case, then,
no sane person would believe in anything which our senses cannot detect; declaring, most of our systems of belief rest upon rotten foundations, and generally these foundations are made sacred to preserve them from attack. They become dogmas in a sort of holy of holies. The Internet is my only source of information about Pastafarianism. I wondered why I did not remember The Winnipeg Free Press reporting about this strange international religion. Is it possible that the Free Press is a free press in name only? H. G. Wells stated newspapers refuse to clash with any beliefs held by their advertisers and readers, normally printing only propaganda and inane entertainment. To dismiss Pastafarianism would compel me to dismiss most religions. Some religions, including Buddhism, do not have a god. With the proliferation of books and documentaries showing that our religions grew out of ancient mythology, more and more people are becoming “non-believers”. However many, after giving up their belief in gods, but influenced by friends and family, continue to follow their religious traditions, declaring they are secular, Secular Jews, Secular Christians, Secular Moslems, et cetera. Pastafarians ask, does it matter if anyone believes in Thor, God, Allah, Poseidon, the Flying Spaghetti Monster, or no god at all? It is not possible to prove or disprove any religious belief. Meanwhile, around the World, Pastifarians are in court demanding legal recognition, which is giving us much food for thought. Wayne Weedon is an Indigenous Manitoba writer of novels and short stories. To sample his wonderful work go to Wattpad. com.
Apple Cheeks Lumley, an unsung hockey hero Fred Douglas
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reat athletes who briefly play in one place are often barely mentioned in that city's sports history. Sixty years ago, Hockey Hall of Fame Goalie Harry Lumley was playing his last professional season with the Western League's Winnipeg Warriors. Harry "Apple Cheeks" Lumley was born on November 11, 1926, in Owen Sound, Ontario. On December 19, 1943, he became and remains the youngest goalie ever to play in the NHL. After allowing 13 goals in his first two games for the Detroit Red Wings, Harry was sent back to the minors. While waiting to travel back to the minors, Harry was the emergency goalie for a New York at Detroit game. Due to a jaw injury to the New York Goalie Ken McAuley, Harry 4
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played the 3rd period shutting out his Detroit teammates. During his sixth season as Detroit's number one goalie, Harry won his only Stanley Cup. Detroit had dominated the 1949-50 regular season, finishing first 11 points ahead of Montreal. In the opening playoff game, the Red Wings lost star forward Gordie Howe with a serious head injury. Toronto and New York both took the Red Wings to seven games in their playoff series. Harry recorded three shutouts, won four elimination games, and won two game sevens in overtime. After spending two years with the last place Chicago Black Hawks, Harry spent four years with the Toronto Maples Leafs. In 1953-54 and 1954-55 seasons, Harry played goal as well as it can be played. He recorded a GAA of 1.89. In 1953-54, he recorded 13 regu-
lar season shutouts. This stands as the most regular season shutouts recorded by any goalie in the six-team era (1942 to 1967). Harry won the Vezina Trophy in 1953-54. He was the First Team All Star Goalie in 1953-54 and 1954-55 seasons. Harry played 14 playoff games as a Toronto Maple Leaf. The Leafs scored only 24 goals in those games. The anemic Toronto offense cost Harry a second Stanley Cup. Harry split the next four years between the Boston Bruins and the American Hockey League. In 1960-61, Harry played most of his last professional season with the Winnipeg Warriors of the Western Hockey League. The last-place Warriors were struggling on and off the ice. However, Harry provided some highlight Winnipeg Arena moments. He led the Warriors to an exhibition game five to four victory over the Boston
Bruins. In October 1960, he outdueled Don Head in a six to two victory over the brand-new Portland Buckaroos. During his 17-year NHL Career, Harry played 803 Games (most for any goalie who played for a Winnipeg-based professional team). In Detroit 1950, and Toronto 1956, he lost his starting job in questionable decisions. His 71 regular season shutouts and career GAA of 2.75 proves that he was one of the great NHL goalies. He is the only goalie to play for five out of the six original teams. The Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Center Arena in Owen Sound is named in his honour. Harry is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame (1980), and Owen Sound Sports Hall of Fame. He died on September 13, 1998. Fred Morris describes himself as a political activist and sometime political candidate. January 2021
What if you broke your leg while break dancing for the 2024 Olympics? George Hacking
“So, my mom has this condo…”
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ften I will get a call or run into someone and the conversation starts here. It’s a growing trend, made more poignant by Covid-19. What we are talking about is aging in place, and statistically it’s good to try and remain in your home as long as reasonably possible. With Covid-19 it has become a strategy for survival as the virus is so lethal to seniors in personal care. Aging in place is a strategy. Similar to your finances or your fitness regimen, aging in place takes planning. Sometimes your house is unsuitable – plotting against you – with tight corridors and doorways, steep, poorly designed stairways, icing roofs, etc. Experts suggest simple is best. Your 2½ storey Victorian may hold amazing memories of your family through generations, however, it
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presents physical challenges that are likely to compound each decade. A simplified downsize home is an excellent compromise, and it’s likely your downsize home will leave some significant change in your pockets. Single level 800 to 1400-square-foot modern homes have bright open designs and modern convenience. Sometimes you can find single level 4-plexes like Okolita Park in St. Vital, Berkley Bend in Steinbach or Brookstone in Selkirk. They offer community as well as privacy in an affordable balance. If you like a more substantial yard proposition “affordable” homes exist in all neighborhoods, but my personal preference for design and value are generally ‘50s and ‘60s houses. Cement, fir and copper were cheap, so you get overbuilt, solid homes that are relatively easy to modify and simple in design. Their downside often involves moisture and weeping tile (or lack thereof) issues in the basement, but improved surface drainage is sometimes all that’s required. Again,
New made in Canada Tesla battery is a game changer Continued from page 1
indicated the 4680 charges in 15 minutes on a Level 3 high Speed Charger. When not charging your car at home you will be able to get it done on the highway quickly for those long road trips in Canada and the United States. 4 – Cold Weather: The 4680 Dry-Cell doesn’t have a traditional electrolyte, that means no liquid acids or gels. Liquid acids and gels don’t like cold, the Dry-Cell eliminates that problem, especially when combined with the heat-pump Tesla developed that will become part of the automotive mainstream. 3 – Life of Battery: The days of questionable battery life from the first generation Nissan Leaf are over – the new Tesla 4680 is good for 3.5 million km’s (2 million miles) before it’s time to replace the battery. That means it’s a game changer in not only the car business, but also the long haul tractor trailer business. 2 – Cost: The manufacturing time and materials required for the 4680 means productions costs will drop by 56%. We are going to see real competition on the raw sticker price in the window at the local car dealer. Currently, 4,416 (Model 2170 lithium ion) cells are placed inside a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y long-range edition battery packs. In contrast, only 960 cells will be required to fill the same space with the new 4680 Dry-Cell. As an added bonus, Tesla won’t have cobalt in their batteries anymore, that means no more memes about children in the Congo! 1 – Future: You are going to see serious discussions and planning in the tractor-trailer longhaul business because of the 4680 Dry-Cell. The development and ingenuity of ever more efficient batteries developed by Tesla will create mass disruption in the market place. In terms of energy density (watt-hours per kilogram) the present standard Tesla battery has 380 Wh/kg (Watt hours per kilogram). In 5 years don’t be surprised if the 4680 Dry-Cell energy density increases by 5% a year compounded from 380 Wh/kg to somewhere in the 480 Wh/kg to 500 Wh/kg range. You need 450 Wh/kg to make commercial air passenger service viable. Let’s hope Canada and its 10 provinces get there act together, and create a plan for a national mining policy. We can either be part of the disruption – or we can watch others benefit from it. It’s time we plan for today instead of yesterday. Clinton Desveaux writes on EV and disruption issues at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy. He lives in Halifax. January 2021
if you’re OK leaving the city, bargains exist in outskirt communities with great senior programs and medical options, but make sure you can stay connected with family and friends. Isolation is not your friend statistically, life balance is. OK, let’s assume you’re in your “aging bunker.” What now? Make it right for you. Comedienne Kathleen Madigans’ retirement plan consisted of learning to write with both hands so she could sign cheques after her inevitable stroke. We can do better! Step out of your day to day and look at your home as if you were a combination of Realtor, Health and Safety Inspector and Home Care Nurse. If you broke your leg while break dancing for the 2024 Olympics, how fun would it be to maneuver to the kitchen and bathroom? When you get that hip replaced on warranty, how would a wheelchair function even in the short term? See if you can pick away at expanding doorways and hallways for increased accessibility. Do you have a walk-in shower
or a large enough bathroom to accommodate mobility aids? Remember, this is about the future– hopefully distant– when you’re going to need help to stay in your home. Other considerations: Is there an option for main floor laundry? How energy efficient is your home? Can you afford the monthly expense if your income/buying power is 75-50% of today's? There is a lot of room for creativity. Let your mad scientist out because the goal is to live long enough to be a problem for your children. Then one day they see their REALTOR® and say, “So my Dad has this condo...” George Hacking is an award winning realtor at Century 21 Advanced Realty on The Hacking Home Team. The properties described are on market homes/condos as per the time of this writing. Opinions, comments, and wild rants are my own and prone to change with variations in weather and availability of alcohol. Details of these on market homes in article are available at www.55plushomes.ca
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96-Year-old walks over 96 km to raise over $100,000 for four local arts organizations
Dr. MacEwan with the cheques for the arts groups, Nov. 11, 2020
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innipeg arts lover, 96-yearold Dr. Douglas MacEwan, has succeeded in reaching his goal of walking 96 km and raising over $100,000, which will be divided evenly between Winnipeg’s four major performing arts organizations: Manitoba Opera, the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. A WWII veteran, Dr. MacEwan concluded his walk on November 11, also his 96th birthday. He walked a total of
109 kilometres and his “Walk for the Arts” campaign raised over $124,000, a combination of the $100,000 contributed by an anonymous sponsor and donations from the community. Unfortunately, the public celebration planned for the conclusion of his walk was cancelled as a result of the restrictions related to the pandemic; so Dr. MacEwan completed his last kilometre of the walk with family members alongside. A long-time arts lover, when the pandemic hit, Dr. MacEwan was de-
Soprano Monica Huisman after a 1K walk with Dr. MacEwan termined to do something to help to ensure the footlights would shine again in his beloved city. He began his walk in mid-July, receiving $500 for every kilometer he walked and an additional $500 for each day he had a walking buddy. “I am very happy to have reached my goal and to have inspired others to donate to the campaign,” said Dr. MacEwan. “And to have been joined on my daily walks by so many artists and other hard-working members of our artistic community was such a treat!”
“Dr. MacEwan has inspired us all with his audacious goal, his determination and grit, and his willingness to dig in and find a way to help something he cares deeply about,” commented Larry Desrochers, Manitoba Opera’s General Director and CEO, speaking on behalf of the four recipient organizations. “When my colleagues and I first learned of his mission, we were overcome. This gift helps us not only financially, but more importantly, reminds us all of the important role that the arts play in the fabric of our community.”
Thank you, Winnipeg, for your giving spirit! The Arts do their part to support those in need in the community
Filbert at the RMTC Mainstage.
rmtc Lobby photo.
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ach holiday season, area agencies rely heavily on the giving powers of arts patrons through community donation drives. Even though audiences couldn’t gather in person for charming holiday productions, Royal MTC, RWB and WSO invited patrons to make curbside donations through the Miracle on Market giving initiative. Miracle on Market accepted contactless curbside donations at the Royal MTC Box Office on December 10, 11 and 12. 6
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“We were pleasantly overwhelmed with the giving spirit of Winnipeggers. I estimate that we received over 5,000 pounds of food, blankets and personal hygiene supplies. Patrons made every kind of donation, ranging from candy canes to toothbrushes and handmade mittens and toques. COVID-19 has created so much uncertainty and loss; it was really hopeful to watch the donations come in and create many tiny miracles,” said Sheena Baird, Royal MTC Director of Patron Services.
Arts patrons were not the only contributors. Those dropping off donations on the second evening enjoyed a surprise visit from Filbert of RWB’s Nutcracker, who made his own 100-pound food delivery. Although our curbside donation drive is over, Harvest Manitoba, Main Street Project and Siloam Mission are still in need of support. Please visit their websites for most-needed items and to make monetary gifts. On behalf of these worthy organizations and members of our community in need, THANK YOU! January 2021
How the New Music Festival puts Winnipeg on the map
The WNMF is your chance to explore music that can be simple or sublime, but which will waken your soul.
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or the past thirty years, the last pieces of music no musician has ever week of January has seen a flurry performed before and no audiences have of excitement and activity around ever heard before. When you attend seven nights of the new the Winnipeg Symphony music festival, you can be Orchestra as it launches guaranteed that you will the intense week of musiinstantly love some of the cal exploration known as music and you will hate the Winnipeg New Music some of the music. Festival. That this festiThis Festival provides val of new creation has one of the very rare opreached the thirty year portunities for composmark is a credit to the ers to gather to listen to loyal new music fans who live performances of each come out each year to exother’s music, to interact perience the most eclecwith each other, to protic and mind expanding vide high level training variety of live music perTrudy Schroeder to young composers, and formance of new music Random participate in discussion one is able to attend in Notes groups and panel discusWinnipeg and arguably sion with the audience. in North America. It is interesting that Winnipeg has This is a chance for audience members been able to sustain this festival for thir- to listen to a piece of music and then ask ty years when orchestras and new mu- the composer why he or she wrote the sic organizations in much larger centres music in that way. At the post-concert around North America have not been discussions, audience members have the able to develop comparable showcases opportunity to have a drink and a snack for new music. The Winnipeg New Mu- with the composers and other music sic Festival is almost miraculous in its lovers. Each day is dynamic and remarkable. scope, scale, and longevity. When you attend the Winnipeg New This festival is also an important measure of the commitment that the WSO Music Festival, you are rubbing shoulhas to advancing the art of symphonic ders with very bright, creative, and admusic. The WNMF is the time in the venturous music lovers of all ages. Each year when the music director and the year, new fans mingle with people who artistic planning team can put together have been attending the festival for dewildly eclectic programs comprised of cades. The concerts and events attract
The Winnipeg New Music Festival returns with 3 livestream shows. For more info: wso.ca Winnipeg’s most adventurous listeners. If you want to see a great cross section of Winnipeg’s creative community, you should attend the New Music Festival. Artists, architects, film makers, actors, designers, dancers, writers, singers, explorers, professors, students and many more attend this festival on an annual basis. They find inspiration, challenges, and opportunities for exploration and reflection. As one Toronto reviewer said…” at the peak of its frigid winter, Winnipeg transforms into an oasis of the most inspiring, adventurous, and riveting music of our time.” Many people think of orchestras as institutions that exclusively play the music of male European composers who died hundreds of years ago: However, symphonic music is a living art form. The orchestra, in its entirety, is an instrument that is capable of an extraordinary
range of sounds and effects. Composers continue to be attracted to the incredible palette of tonal colours that they can work with when they compose for an orchestra. The language of music has also developed so many new ways of expressing the ideas and emotions the composers desire to convey. Also, the field of orchestral composition now includes brilliant women and people of every culture and creed. This year, the 30th birthday festival, will be adjusted and adapted to the circumstances to keep performers and audience members safe. But the Festival will go on, and you can be a part of the live streaming audience. Dates of the Festival are January 23-26, 2021 and Festival Passes can be purchased for just $49 for the whole festival. Trudy Schroeder is the Executive Director of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.
Time for foreign broadcasters to pay their share
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hen we think of the media reach. The broadcaster also needs to unproduction industry, we often derstand who is watching what when, to think of the artistic side – ac- sell ad spaces. The broadcaster uses the revenue earned through tors, writers, directors, ad sales to invest in the designers, make-up and stories that will appeal to special effects, perhaps the appropriate audience, the illustrators and artists the objective being to inthat create animated series vest just enough to mainor features and the comtain growth in audiences posers and musicians who and ad sales and turn a create the music score for profit. Over time, with films; and rightly so, a cable, satellite, and now good story, well-told, will the Internet, the broadfind an audience. Now, casting business model you no doubt have immust adapt to new audiages in mind of rather less ence behaviours by offerthan stellar films and seNicole Matiation ing subscription-based or ries that have made it to a Movie pay-to-view services with screen…and to you, a less Making no ads, or a blend of ads than satisfied audience. and payments. Audience Success in the media production industry is very much measured generally prefers to watch ad-free conby audience size and satisfaction, along tent and will pay for that service. Public broadcasters are based on a with critical success. Understanding why audiences watch what they watch is different model. In some countries both art and science. Audience behavior, they receive 100 per cent of their fundour interest in stories both fiction and ing through the state, in others such as non-fiction, is what drives the business Canada, we have blended model where the CBC/Radio-Canada receives a subof screen-based storytelling. The conventional private business stantial portion of its budget from govmodel for television (and for radio, ernment and then has the option to newspapers and magazines for that mat- generate revenue through advertising ter) is built on ad sales – the network sells and more recently an online subscripa “spot,” a few seconds of “airtime” so tion service. Other models include notthat the advertiser can make the case for for-profit companies with revenue from their product. In order to succeed, the multiple sources including advertising, broadcaster needs shows that will attract subscriptions, government contributhe audience that the advertiser seeks to tions and donations. The Aboriginal January 2021
People’s Television Network (APTN) and TV5 Québec Canada for Frenchspeaking audiences in Québec (TV5) and across Canada (unisTV) are a couple of Canadian examples. Broadcast frequencies are a limited and valued public resources, access to broadcast, television or radio programs is a privilege confirmed through a broadcast licence. These licences are awarded and regulated by the Canadian RadioTelevision and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). Most countries have a similar system based on ensuring that access to broadcast frequencies (and telephone/telecommunications services) is equitable and controlled. Essentially considering broadcast and telecommunications to be public services in the same sense as electricity, running water and sewage systems. Communications services –telephone, telecommunications and now the Internet have been vital to the economic and cultural development of Canada with its very large rugged geography and dispersed, relatively low population. Arguably, broadcast services have also played a part in defining our cultural identity, and sharing news, across the country. This is where the role of the CRTC becomes critical to the support and growth of Canadian programming – independent Canadian music and television have grown in part because the CRTC requires broadcasters to include Canadian programming throughout the broadcast day and to invest in the devel-
opment and production of that content. Currently the emerging online distributors or “streamers”, which are essentially acting as broadcasters, do not contribute directly to the development and production of Canadian content. These giant international companies buy and distribute Canadian programs providing opportunity for Canadian productions to be seen in many countries and they produce content in Canada, providing valued work for Canadian industry professionals. However, for independent writers, directors and producers, there is growing concern that streamers are not paying fair value for productions that were developed and produced with Canadian public investments. For these reasons, the media production industry welcomes the federal government’s move to require that all international companies benefitting from doing business in Canada should contribute to the Canadian economy through taxes. The government has also set in motion amendments to the Canadian Broadcasting Act that will give the CRTC more authority over online distribution services to ensure that all private companies benefitting from Canadian programming also contribute to its development and production. These changes will help to ensure Canadian stories continue to be told by and with Canadian talent for local and international audiences. Nicole Mariation is the Executive Director of On Screen Manitoba. whatsupwinnipeg.ca
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Goodbye, old friend: The Paddlewheel and the downtown Bay join Eaton’s in history Continued from page 1
Many people hold memories of the iconic Paddlewheel Restaurant.
Standing by the Paddlewheel in 2013.
Burton Cummings interviewed at the Paddlewheel for a promotional “Shakin’ All Over” event.
fence while the glassed-in elevated riverboat was for several years a gentlemen-only club. The majority of patrons simply took a table in the main dining room. For many of us, our earliest Paddlewheel experience was likely dessert glasses filled with Jello (with a dollop of whipping cream) or vanilla ice cream on a shopping break with parents. “When I was young I loved to go with Mom to the Paddlewheel at the end of shopping or after going to a movie,” Lenore Clemens remembers. “It was a big treat to stop there before taking the bus home. I loved the magical paddlewheel and always wanted to make a wish in it.” Adds Kate Ferris, “It was my first experience with a cafeteria. I remember feeling very ‘grown up’.” By the mid ‘60s the restaurant had taken on a funky chic as a hip Saturday afternoon teen hangout. Plates of French fries smothered in gravy alongside a glass of Coke
supplanted the Jello, with Keds and corduroy trousers replaced by Beatle boots and skin-tight Tee Kay jeans. For rock ‘n’ roll-crazed Winnipeg teens, the Paddlewheel was the place to be. Here bands and fans met. “Me and my two best friends would stroll in, sit down and scout out who was there,” recalls Patti Ireland. “There was always a who’s who of band guys. I once saw Burton Cummings sitting there but I was too shy to go over and say anything to him.” In my teens, my friends and I would start our weekly Saturday afternoon music shopping routine with a coke and fries at the Paddlewheel. From time to time the Paddlewheel hosted live radio broadcasts and teen events (anyone remember Piccadilly A-Go Go?). In August 1971, I played a back-to-school fashion show there with Fabulous George and the Zodiacs. But my ultimate Paddlewheel moment came on the
afternoon of June 27, 1987, when the venue hosted the launch of my book Shakin’ All Over: The Winnipeg Sixties Rock Scene sponsored by the Variety Club of Manitoba. At a table near the Crinoline Court, I sat elbow to elbow with Neil Young and Burton Cummings, two Paddlewheel habitués from days gone by, signing copies of the book. It was the last hurrah for the once trendy spot. Recognizing the nostalgic stature of ‘The Wheel’, local filmmaker Guy Maddin employed the Paddlewheel, complete with references to orange jello, for a scene in his acclaimed film My Winnipeg. By then the restaurant was living on borrowed time. The Paddlewheel served its final meal in 2013. It was only a matter of time before The Bay’s flagship downtown store would, too, shutter its doors. For me, it’s like saying goodbye to an old friend.
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There’s a kind of hush all over the world Continued from page 1
to her surprise every day she is seeing birds that she and perhaps provide an oasis of laughter in a dull winter has never noticed before and small animals and deer day. It is such a personal thing to speak to someone and who are finding the calm just as thrilling as can be. In if you don’t have a phone that you can use live chat on, fact since she is so creative she is using it’s the very next best thing. this as a subject for her latest series of I know that I have said it before but I paintings about being one with nature cannot repeat it enough that we all have at this time. family and friends that are living alone in This year a lot of people who normally various situations and we need to keep a try to escape the winter will be spending check on them this winter. To drop off it right here in its midst and learning that goodies, mail a note of cheer or talk on it is not nearly as onerous as they once the phone are all good things to keep us felt it to be. In fact one of them told me all connected. We need to reinforce that already that she is loving staying home. no one needs to be alone in this winter. For those of us who do stay home it will In fact some of our friends are doing even be a bit different as well with lack ZOOM meets once a week with good of one to one socializing and meeting. friends all over the continent...raising a However we can all make the best of it glass or two as they visit virtually. by using the skills we have as humans to Sharing points of view after watching Jim Pappas communicate either by the internet, mail various programs on Netflix or Amaor the telephone. Speaking of the telezon is another good way to exchange phone that is a long ignored aspect that we have not thoughts. Imagine if we could be meeting them at a made use of. By calling others and talking to them we movie theatre and then going for coffee to chat about can bring a sense of cheer, do some memory hopping the film. This can open a new vein of talk with others
Resolution time
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t’s that time of year again! The time them. This led me to wonder, then why of year where we make promises to make it in the first place? Is it tradition or ourselves to do better, to be better, maybe a sense of hope that this year will to tackle those things that we dream of be different? This also had my brain spinaccomplishing. Depending on whose ning because it means that the significant majority of those who make resolutions statistics you look at, anyevery year believe they will where from 60 to 74 per achieve them at some level. cent of us make New Year’s So, 88 per cent of us beresolutions. Interestingly, lieve we will succeed, but this number decreases with only 8 to 20 per cent of age. The younger generaus do. And this happens tions may even reach over year after year. What I love 90 per cent making resoluabout this is it speaks to tions (I love the optimism the optimism and hope in of our youth), while the people. We can be better oldest generation falls to and do better! under 50 per cent. Data Personally, I think the also indicates that anykey is to find something where from 8 per cent to Brenda Martinussen that is truly meaningful 20 per cent of individuals to you. A lot of resoluachieve their resolutions. Nurse Next Door This means a staggering 80 Home Care Services tions are related to selfcare: smoke or drink less, to 92 per cent fail. eat better, lose weight, exI found it curious that 12 per cent of people who make resolutions, ercise more, make time for loved ones, don’t actually believe they will achieve learn something new, read more (my 8
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that are far away. Starting a virtual book club is another as I have done with two of my friends. We read the same books then talk in whichever way we can to disseminate the book and its merits. This need not be a winter of discontent. We have the power to make it a winter to remember by exercising our brains to make things better not only for ourselves but for others. We have the power to get past all this isolation by being responsive caring human beings. By placing others first we can feel gratified and lift our own spirits at the same time. When you consider that our ancestors lived through pandemics, two world wars, a Depression, holocaust and other plagues we can certainly live through all this that we are facing. Most of us live in very safe situations and need to look ahead and to relish the hush that the world is in. To feel at one with nature and the universe and to support those who need our support. I for one am taking this hush as a sign that the world is needing a breath from things that sorely need a breath taken. So I am exhorting you to enjoy this hush and look ahead to brighter days in the future A CLASS ACT with JIM PAPPAS is on CJNU 93.7 FM Mondays at 1 pm.
husband would argue I should read less). Those are all big and broad goals. I know research says to be successful, all our goals should be SMART goals (specific, measurable, accountable, realistic, time-bound). I also know research shows that if we try to do too much at once, it increases the chance we will fail. So, I say start with one thing and start small, then build on your success. Instead of “I’m only going to eat healthy food and under 1,200 calories a day”, how about “I will eat three servings of vegetables per day at least four times a week.” Once you’ve managed that, build on it. I’m reminded of the saying by Karen Lamb, “A year from now, you will wish you had started today.” Put that together with Lao-Tzu’s “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” and what do you have? Small steps can lead to big things; especially if it’s an area that you’ve tried and failed at before (though the only failure is not trying again). But let’s not be “insane” (as defined by Einstein)
and keep doing the same thing over and over again – look at what didn’t work, look at what did and make adjustments. Was the goal too big? You have a crazy work schedule and family life – is working out five times a week realistic? Maybe going for a walk with your spouse or a friend is more within reach to start. I also think with everything 2020 has thrown at us, now may be a time to cut ourselves some slack. Aim for selfimprovement always, but it’s okay to take small steps. I am usually the humbug person who goes to bed at 10 pm on New Year’s Eve, while others are excited to ring in the new year with all of its fresh possibilities. This year though, I am more than happy to kick 2020 to the curb. This year, I think I will join the Millennials and Gen Zers and usher in 2021 with a sense of excitement and optimism – and maybe make a resolution of my own. To contact Nurse Next Door home care services call 204-800-0251 or visit the website at www.nursenextdoor.com. January 2021
A & O: January 2021 update
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Connect Program anuary can be challenging for many, due to the holiRegistered Social Workers assist socially isolated Windays winding down and the cold winter days that lie ahead. If this isn’t enough, there’s a pandemic go- nipeggers 55+ living in the community by connecting ing on that we have to figure out how best to navigate them to resources that will facilitate independent living. Clients of the program may be connected for our own individual circumstances. It’s to: Volunteer Visitors and Callers, Comimportant for all of us regardless of age munity Resources, Senior Centre Withto maintain a positive outlook. This may out Walls, Safety and Security Programs, be easier said than done. A & O: SupCounselling and Support Services. port Services for Older Adults provides Senior Immigrant Settlement Services many specialized programs and services The program offers a wide range of setthat have been in place pre pandemic and tlement services for newcomers 55 years have now been enhanced to provide addiof age and over. Our Settlement Orientational Covid-19 support to older Manition for Seniors program is a group oritobans. Please do not hesitate to contact A & O: entation where participants learn about us if you are feeling blue and/or isolated. Support Services for important settlement topics such as law, The following is a list of programs and Older Adults health and safety, housing, transportaservices that may be particularly benefition, money and banking and community cial during this time. Senior Centre Without Walls information. Upon completing the orienThis program is the first of its kind in Canada and of- tation, participants are referred to The Winnipeg English fers a unique opportunity for Manitobans, 55+, to join Language Assessment and Referral Centre (WELARC) educational and interactive programs from the comfort for a language assessment appointment. They may then of their own homes. Programming topics include; edu- register for our English Language Program for seniors cational presentations, language classes, book clubs, trav- or are welcome to join one of our English Conversation elogues and support groups. The free programs are ac- Circles. A settlement worker is also available to provide cessed through a toll-free number and are offered during additional information about community programs and services, to assist with forms and documents and offer the day and evenings.
opportunities to connect with other older adults in the community. Individual and group counselling for older adults 55+ • Registered Social Workers provide a variety of counselling services that address grief and loss, financial issues, depression, family issues, loneliness/isolation and loss of health • Consultations with family members • Intake Worker available Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Support Groups • Bereavement Support Group • Moving Forward monthly group • Making and Keeping Important Connections • Because We Care: Carer’s Support Group • Buried in Treasures (for older adults dealing with Hoarding Disorder) You are not alone. Don’t wait, call today! A & O has many supports that can assist older adults in aging well. Phone: 204-956-6440 www.aosuppportservices.ca Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter! A & O: Support Services for Older Adults is located at 200-280 Smith Street, Winnipeg. Call 204-956-6440, email intake@aosupportservices.ca, or go online to www.aosupportservices.ca.
Income security: what do we want out of life? Peggy Prendergast
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TAM is a provincial organization of over 10,000 retired teachers. Income security seems to mean it is about money. Money is a tool to “get what you want” in life. Do we all really know what we “want out of life?” This is the time of year we try to answer. Dickens tried to answer it with his story of Scrooge and the three views of Christmas: past, present and future. As older adults many of us are living that reality: alone, isolated and reflective. Those of us with children and grandchildren long to be with them, especially on Christmas day. Will the gift of money or gifts costing money represent the act of caring that a hug or words of caring from the person themselves can convey? It will remain to be seen as we live through this unusual season facing all of us. Next ask the question, “Who is a teacher?” Someone who has learned not only a great deal of information about certain subject material, but also the art of how to put that subject material to practical use and then many different ways to impart that learning to other people. In the
January 2021
case of public school teachers, it is to impart knowledge appropriately to children ages four to eighteen with varying levels of physical, social and intellectual levels of development as well as varying cultural and socially appropriate beliefs. All of this learning is also filtered through the background influences of the teacher. As teachers we learned very quickly to teach by example. If we love to learn and impart that feeling to our students they too will love to learn, no matter what the subject. If life is a positive adventure so too will it be for those we influence and the knowledge we impart will be accepted and learned by those we are trying to teach. Over the past year there are many pieces of information we have explored under the topic Income Security to point out information that will be of assistance to you in finding all the income that is available from the government as we age, such as indexed CPP if we have ever been employed, and OAS just for being a Canadian citizen aged 65. To find out the latest information on these subjects and the special benefits in your particular situation, Google Canada gov.ca as well as Manitoba gov.ca. The booklet www.getyourbenefits.ca is also
available on line to all. There is always something new to find. (For example, did you know that on November 6, 2020, the Manitoba government did away with probate fees?*) All of this plus what we have saved over a lifetime or are able to earn as we continue to age is included in income security, but how much income do we need to be secure is answered when we answer the question “What do we want from the life we are leading?” The pandemic has taught us a very important lesson. Not only are we in this together, we need each other like we have never known before. The act of aging well is one of learning but also one of teaching all those we are in contact with how to live. If we as older adults live a positive life even though we are isolated, we show the world it is wonderful just to be alive whatever age we are. I now derive pleasure from the small things in life: my plants I am talking to and keeping alive, the new ways I am learning to make my meals; exciting, ZOOM, face time, texting and other ways to communicate to keep me connected. Because I am saving money being isolated, I am giving it
to the greater good, the Children’s Hospital Trust Fund. My great granddaughter is alive in Children’s Hospital because of the foresight of people in the past and facetiming with this happy growing child is a miracle and an emotional roller coaster. What of the future? The money that I can amass will go towards helping children stay alive and secure in their future. When the pandemic is over however, I will take every opportunity that presents itself to hug my children, grandchildren and those I hold dear because acts of caring are the core of making life secure and often don’t need money. May peace and serenity be with you this unusual Christmas season. Stay safe and healthy in the New Year. *This means that pre-death ownership transfers to adult children or others once seen as a means to avoid probate fees, may no longer be necessary or desirable. Peggy Prendergast is president of Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM). Retired Teachers’ Association of Manitoba (RTAM) is located at 206 – 1555 St. James St., Winnipeg. Call 1-204-889-3660, email info@rtam.mb.ca or go online to www.rtam. mb.ca.
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Directory Northern AREA Jubilee Recreation of Cranberry Portage Legion Hall, 217 2nd Ave. SE, Cranberry Portage 472-3031 Snow Lake Seniors 71 Balsam St., Snow Lake 358-2151 The Pas Golden Agers 324 Ross Ave., The Pas 623-3663 Interlake AREA Gimli New Horizons 55+ Activity Centre 17 North Colonization Rd., Gimli 642-7909 www.gimlinewhorizons.com Gordon Howard Centre 384 Eveline St., Selkirk 785-2092 www.gordonhoward.ca Grand Marais & District Seniors 90 Matilda Ave., Grand Marais 998-1509 Riverton & District Friendship Centre 24 Main St., Riverton 378-2800 South Interlake 55 Plus 374 1st St. W., Stonewall 467-2582 www.si55plus.org Eastman AREA Beau-head Senior Centre 645 Park Ave., Beausejour 268-2444 East Beaches Social Scene 3 Ateah Rd., Victoria Beach 756-6468 www.ebseniorscene.ca East Beaches Resource Centre 3 Ateah Road, Victoria Beach 756-6471 www.ebseniorscene.ca Pat Porter Active Living Centre 10 Chrysler Gate, Steinbach 320-4600 www.patporteralc.com Central AREA Carmen Active Living Centre 47 Ed Belfour Drive, Carmen 745-2356 www.carmanalc.com Comfort Drop In Centre 31 Main St., Erickson 636-7895 Crystal City Friendship Club 117 Broadway St., Crystal City 873-2091
Dauphin Multi-Purpose Senior Centre 55 1st Ave. SE, Dauphin 638-6485 www.dauphinseniors.com Grandview Drop In 432 Main St., Grandview 546-2772 Herman Prior Senior Services Centre 40 Royal Rd. N., Portage la Prairie 857-6951 www.hermanpriorcentre.com Neepawa Drop In Centre 310 Davidson St., Neepawa 476-5103 www.neepawa.ca/district-drop-in-center Morden Activity Centre 306 N. Railway St., Morden 822-3555 www.mordenseniors.ca Minnedosa 50+ Centre 31 Main St. S., Minnedosa 867-1956
Winnipeg AREA 20 Fort Street Seniors Club 2200 - 20 Fort St., Winnipeg (204) 227-7104 Aboriginal Senior Resource Centre Winnipeg 527 Selkirk Ave., Winnipeg (204) 586-4595 www.asrcwpg.org A&O: Senior Centre Without Walls 200 - 280 Smith St., Winnipeg (204) 956-6440 www.aosupportservices.ca Archwood 55 Plus 565 Guilbault St., Winnipeg (204) 416-1067 archwood55plusinc.weebly.com Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre 51 Morrow Ave., Winnipeg (204) 946-9152 www.barbaramitchellfrc.ca
Gwen Secter Creative Living Centre 1588 Main St., Winnipeg (204) 339-1701 www.gwensecter.com Headingley Senior Services 5353 Portage Ave., Winnipeg (204) 889-3132 Ext. 3 www.headingleyseniorservices.ca Winakwa Active Seniors Club 980 Winakwa Rd., Winnipeg (204) 253-4418 www.winakwacc.ca Manitoba Korean Seniors c/o 388 Waverley St., Winnipeg (204) 837-3470 www.ksam.ca Pembina Active Living 50 Barnes Ave., Winnipeg (204) 946-0839 www.pal55plus.com Rady Jewish Community Centre 123 Doncaster St., Winnipeg (204) 480-7550 www.radyjcc.com
Pilot Mound Fellowship Club 203 Broadway, Pilot Mound
Bleak House Centre 1637 Main St., Winnipeg (204) 338-4723 www.bleakhousecentre.com
Plumas Seniors Club 102 White St., Plumas 386-2029
Brooklands Active Living Centre 1960 William Ave. W., Winnipeg (204) 632-8367
Rainbow Resource Centre 170 Scott St., Winnipeg (204) 474-0212, Ext. 211 www.rainbowresourcecentre.org
Portage Services for Seniors 40A Royal Road N., Portage la Prairie 239-6312
Broadway Seniors Resource Centre 823 Ellice Ave., Winnipeg (204) 772-3533 www.bsrc.ca
South Winnipeg Seniors Resource Council 204-478-6169 www.swsrc.ca resources@swsrc.ca
Centro Caboto 1055 Wilkes Ave., Winnipeg (204) 896-1962
Southdale Seniors 254 Lakewood Blvd., Winnipeg (204) 253-4599
Charleswood Senior Centre 5006 Roblin Blvd., Winnipeg (204) 897-5263 www.charleswoodseniorcentre.org
St. James-Assiniboia 55+ Centre 3 - 203 Duffield St., Winnipeg (204) 987-8850 www.stjamescentre.com
Creative Retirement MB 448 Burnell St., Winnipeg (204) 949-2569 www.creativeretirementmanitoba.ca
St. Mary’s Rd. Seniors 613 St. Mary’s Rd., Winnipeg (204) 257-0678 www.stmarysroad.ca
Sandy Lake Drop In Centre 100 Main St., Sandy Lake (204) 585-2411 Treherne Friendship Centre 190 Broadway St., Treherne 723-2559 Winkler Senior Centre 102 - 650 South Railway Ave., Winkler 325-8964 winkler55plus.com Brandon AREA Brandon Seniors for Seniors Coop 311 Park Ave., East, Brandon 571-2050 www.brandonsfors.ca Prairie Oasis Centre 241 8th St., Brandon 727-6641 Age Friendly Committee of Council - Brandon 638 Princess Ave., Brandon 729-2259 Killarney Service for Seniors 203 South Railway (204) 523-7115
Crescent Fort Rouge United Church 525 Wardlaw Ave., Winnipeg (204) 475-6011 Dakota Comm. Centre - Dakota 55+ Lazers 1188 Dakota St., Winnipeg (204) 254-1010 E206 www.dakotacc.com Elmwood East Kildonan Active Living Centre 180 Poplar Ave., Winnipeg (204) 669-0750 www.facebook.com/eekalc Good Neighbours Active Living Centre 720 Henderson Hwy., Winnipeg (204) 669-1710 www.gnalc.ca
Transcona Council for Seniors 845 Regent Ave., Winnipeg (204) 222-9879 Transcona Retired Citizens Centre 328 Whittier Ave. West, Winnipeg (204) 222-8473 Vital Seniors 3 St. Vital Rd., Winnipeg (204) 253-0555 www.stmarymagdelenewpg.org Winnipeg Chinese Senior Association (204) 291-9028 www.winnipegchineseseniors.ca
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January 2021
Getting your affairs in order in the digital age Your digital undertaker attempts to crack the code on death
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y journey started when my mom died without a will, and I was faced with the overwhelming task of sorting out her estate––in my grief, my frustration mounted when I couldn’t find a basic how-to manual to help me. As I dug into the information that was available, I realised everything that had been written was for the predigital era. There was nothing about estate planning where financial records, photographs, and financial assets are in digital form. This led me to write the how-to manual that would have helped me. I knew it needed to include information for estate planning in a digital world – not for the last century! It also needed a way to make complex processes simple. Because I’d spent twelve years in the military and then another eighteen years at IBM using project management, charts, diagrams, graphics and checklists, I applied this same approach to estate planning. The result is my book, Your Digital Undertaker – Exploring Death in the Digital Age in Canada, which attempts to heighten the awareness of providing a will and improve executor readiness when navigating their role in the digital age. So, how do we organise all of our digital assets as we get our affairs in order? Although few of us have a will or an estate plan, the good news is that all the same planning principles apply. At the same time, if we are going to embrace a more honest conversation about death by talking to our loved ones about our wishes and preferences for end-of-life and death, we should also dust off our paperwork and ensure those difficult conversations capture our intentions in a way that meets the various legalities where you live. Where to begin? Let Your Digital Undertaker - Exploring Death in the Digital Age in Canada be your guide to not only planning your digital footprint on death but also planning for the transfer of your assets. Although I wrote this book considering Canadian laws, the approach and methodology are applicable in any country. If the death-positive movement is successful, then globally through various initiatives, communities, and innovation a new dialogue about end-of-life and death will evolve and take shape.
Certainly, the topic is inherently complex, as multifaceted as the individuals who will carry its burden, and we can never underestimate the challenges when making difficult choices in the face of death when torrents of grief are overpowering. The death-positive movement will hopefully result in a diverse, cross-cultural dialogue that transcends borders and moves the conversation forward about how to honour the wishes of the dying; how to care for caregivers; how to grieve; celebrate; and ritualise our losses. Death shouldn’t be the surprise it continues to be given it is the one universal experience, other than birth, we all share as a human race. Let the power of social media, the wisdom of the practitioners who deal with the dying and their loved ones every day, and millennial innovation continue to fuel this global conversation. At the same time, there is another quieter, yet potentially larger transformation underway in the deathcare and estate industries. We are the first generation who have used the internet and will be the first generation that will transfer our assets to our loved ones and beneficiaries in the digital age. Given that we do virtually everything online, not only does that affect how we plan for our traditional physical assets, such as our home or bank accounts it affects our ability to transfer a whole new set of assets that only exists online – email, loyalty points, social media accounts, cryptocurrencies, and potentially future estate assets on a blockchain. There are already evolving nuances to our digital footprints, including our wishes about our online legacy after death. Do we want a digital after-life when we have passed away? To compound the problem, physical assets are readily lost without a paper trail, can you imagine how quickly digital assets with be lost with only a digital trail? Want to learn more? Connect with Sharon Hartung, Your Digital Undertaker, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/UndertakerTech; Website: www.yourdigitalundertaker.com; Facebook and Instagram Your Digital Undertaker Connie Newman is the Executive Director of the Manitoba Association of Senior Centres.
BE SAFE
AND CONNECTED
especially now.
Lingo lessons Dorothy Dobbie
A
nybody call you a “teek’, lately? Well, it could be true. It refers to an older person – like someone from the Gen X or Boomer generation. On the other hand, a “neek” is someone who is both a nerd and a geek! Of course, you have all, by now heard the term “woke” to describe the ultra “socially aware”. There are many fancy new labels to pin on opinions and people you dislike. Have you heard the term “virtue signalling”? This is said to marginalize a person who is using moral grand standing to publicly display how “politically correct” they are. It is assumed that the “virtue signalling” is a subtle putdown of those who are not of the same mind. “Deniers” are people who have questions about commonly held truisms, usually attached today to those who question the causes of global warming or that it is happening at all. This is now being applied to those who question some of the theories around
COVID-19 and how it is spread, etc. How about “gaslighting”? It refers to an old movie, “Gas Light”, where a husband convinces his wife that she is insane by denying the obvious. Clinically, it refers to a type of psychological manipulation, but it is now a term that is also applied to those who don’t agree with the commonly accepted theories on such things as climate change. Strenuous counterarguments are sometimes termed “gaslighting” by suggesting that questions are meant to mislead others from accepting reality. You may have been accused of being a “troll” if you tweeted a provocative statement, and if there is something the current status quo, the so-called “cancel culture” really doesn’t like or no longer considers correct, then it is “cancelled”. Believe it or not, if you have been cancelled, you are in good company, because so has J.K. Rowling, Ellen DeGeneres and Jimmy Fallon*. Lol (short for “laugh out loud”)! *Jimmy Fallon was “cancelled” for wearing blackface in a 2000 Chris Rock impression on Saturday Night Live (pardon, SNL). Hmm. -Ed.
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Hearty beef stew J
anuary, the days are getting longer, but the cold still bites so here is a meal that will warm you inside and out! With the bitter winter cold days that we are experiencing, there is nothing like a great home cooked meal – something hearty that warms you from the inside. Beef stew is one of those meals that we all love in winter. This is such an easy meal to prepare with everything you need in one pot, and if you are like me, you will make too much and have it two days running. Ian Leatt What makes this one of Foodies those meals that everyone craves? The aroma, the flavour or just a natural desire to feel warm inside?. Probably all of the above. Sometimes slow cooked meals are just the ticket for a bitterly cold day.
Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1,500 gram’s beef (chuck steak) cut into 1 inch pieces 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 9 carrots peeled and cut into chunks 3 sticks celery roughly cut 1 large onion sliced 8 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped 2 cups frozen peas 1 can tomato paste 6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 bottle red cooking wine 3 bay leaves 3 sprigs fresh thyme 4 cups beef stock 8 whole medium red potatoes, peeled and cut into
mouth-size pieces Two handfuls mushrooms roughly chopped. 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley Directions Turn on the slow cooker to medium. Place all the beef in a large bowl, then season with salt and pepper. Lightly dust with flour. Heat oil in a large frying pan then place some beef a little at a time in the frying pan. Try not to crowd the beef. Remember, you are looking at searing, browning on all sides. Once seared remove, placing inside the slow-cooker. Continue this process until all meat has been seared. Reduce the heat on the stove and place three carrots, celery, onion and garlic. Leave to cook for 15 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. Stir occasionally. Add the tomato paste and balsamic vinegar to the vegetables and stir through for a couple of minutes. Pour in the wine and bay leaf and thyme, bring to boil
and leave to simmer for 15 minutes. You will note that the liquid reduces. This is good as it helps to give a more concentrated flavour. Place and the vegetable mixture into the slow-cooker. Add to this the beef stock and turn on high. Once boiling turn to medium and leave to cook for three hours, or until the meat is tender. Remove the sprigs of thyme and bay leaf then add the potatoes and remaining carrots and mushrooms. Leave on medium heat for a further hour. For the last 15 minutes of cooking place the peas in the stew. Stir occasionally. For serving, heat into a large bowl dressed with a little chopped parsley, then enjoy with fresh crusty buttered French bread. Another idea would be to add dumplings. As I always say, it is a matter of choice. Happy New Year. Ian Leatt is general manager of Pegasus Publications and a trained chef.
Appreciation - Dr. Mahinda D. Jayasinghe A caring human being with full of humor Senaka A. Samarasinghe
D
r. Mahinda D. Jayasinghe, MD was a pediatric cardiologist in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He practiced for more than 20 years. His specialty, Pediatric Cardiology treated heart disease in children. His loving wife was Indra. She practiced Pediatrics in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She also practiced for more than 20 years. Their only child son Saman too followed in his parent’s footsteps and qualified as a Preventive Medicine Specialist practicing nearby. The name of Mahinda Aiya's father is Maulise De Silva Jayasinghe (Staff Officer, Ceylon Wharfage Co. Ltd.) married to Aggresha Amarawathie Jayasinghe De Silva. His siblings are Indra Irangani Jayasinghe (deceased), Manel De Silva Jayasinghe, Nihal Ranjith Jayasinghe (in Toronto), and Vinitha Manohari Jayasinghe (deceased). Mahinda Aiya was very proud to say that his loving father migrated from a village called Wauwa in Devinuvara (God’s Town). Devinuwara is the extreme southernmost tip of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. It is a seaport town as well. His paternal ancestors were from Wauwa whereas his maternal ancestors were from Park Avenue next to Campbell Park, Colombo. His father married and settled in Park Avenue. Mahinda Aiya captained Ananda College Cricket Team in 1956, he was fortunate to lead the 27th annual Ananda and Nalanda two-day (31st March and 1st April 1956) match known as Battle of the Maroons. Nalanda College's captain was Nihal Withania. The 27th battle ended in a draw at Oval grounds, 12
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Colombo. He played as the skipper and keeper of the side. Known as a hard-hitting right-hand opening batsman who had an eye for quick runs. In 1960 his brother Nihal played for Nalanda. Although he devoted his time to school cricket as well as holding captaincy of the team, he was qualified in 1963 to enter as a Medical Student to the Colombo Medical College (now Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo). This was established in 1870 as the Colombo Medical School and the second oldest medical school in South Asia. With the Buddhist Renaissance Ananda College was established (1886) to produce well-disciplined citizens with national values. Mahinda Aiya was one of them. The school (Ananda College) and family background, he had special qualities such as practicing Buddhist with diverse interest namely music, art, reading various subjects mainly on history and was a caring human being. He sent emails to me to read Dhamma books such as Thus Have I Heard (Pali: Evam me Suttam) by Maurice Walshe and Discourse of the Buddha by Bhikkhu Bodhi. Can remember conducted Dhamma discussions with him on different topics over the telephone. When I was trying to arrange a visit to Ven. Buddnagala Ananda Thera to Canada in August 2018 Mahinda Aiya actively supported me with his brother Nihal in Toronto. However, the Monk got sick and his visit had to be postponed. Chandani and I paid a visit to Mahinda Aiya and Indra Akka. We landed at the Baton Rouge airport on 15th July 2015. Both of them came to pick us. When I got into the car, I heard from the car radio the song of Pandith Amaradewa a song of Sri Lankan heritage (This is my Mother Land - Me Ape Mathru
Bumiyay). That was the welcome song for both of us. Their well-designed visit started with Jambalaya lunch which is a Louisiana Creole dish of Spanish and French influence. At home, he explained the historical evaluation of Western classical music of Mozart and Beethoven. He focused on two main activities in the backyard namely a swim before lunch and feed fish in the pond by the side of the pool. He explained the annual maintenance process of the in-ground swimming pool (12’ X 24’) and garden inground pond. The home library was another interesting area of Maninda Aiya. From this library, he shared three books with me written by three renowned Ceylon History authors. The names of the authors are R. L. Spittel, George Davison Winius, and R. L. Brohier. He autographed in these three
books as “To Senaka and Chandani, For a Memorable Visit, Mahinda and Indra, Baron Rouge, LA, July 22, 2015”. Besides the city tour in Baton Rouge, they drove us to the port of New Orleans located along the river of Mississippi. From there we drove by the side of Lake Pontchartrain to Bay St. Louis to pay a visit to their family friend, Dr. Leonard J. Cheramie. He too like Mahinda Aiya is a having special interest in collecting antiques. Dr. Cheramie’s home was just like an antique museum. Mahinda Aiya collected Sri Lankan temple paintings published by the New York Graphic Society, New Jersey, USA. Out of which he shared two-color linepaintings (18” X 13”) Phala Viharaya, Mukirigala, Hambantota District, and a scene from the Telapatta Jataka - The king of Taxila riding on his elephant with a Yaksini in human form. Both were drawn in the 19th century. As an art lover, he collected black and white pencil painting photos (16” X 12”) displaying different locations in Sri Lanka. As those were done in the early 19th century each photo carries a historical value of each site such as the port and harbor of Colombo and the town and lake of Kandy. When I asked for medical advice, he always advised me to start with home remedies. All of us at our home got home remedies from Mahinda Aiya. Not only for our household but my brother-in-law Deepal from Medicine Hat in Alberta Province also called him for medical advice. He was our Telephone Doctor. As a caring human being, he always helped his relations in Sri Lanka. I lost a faithful friend and a good relation. May Mahinda Aiya attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana! January 2021
My l’il chickadee F or those who participate in feeding wild birds, there is no bird more adored than the Blackcapped chickadee. A bird filled with such a sense of sweetness that even the movies made it popular. In the early 1930s, actor W.C. Fields most famous line was calling a female character ‘My little Chickadee’ in the movie of the same name. This friendly little bird is a regular visitor at feeding stations and is revered for its interest and communicative behaviour with those who fill the feeder. This makes the Black-capped chickadee Sherrie Versluis one of the most familiar and usually the first idenFeathered tified bird for people who Friends take interest in the hobby of birding. Chickadees are often described as being ‘cute’ for many reasons. Their tiny, round bodies, with their sweet little voices and acrobatic ways as they flit in the trees really are just as cute as can be. The Blackcapped chickadee has a black cap and bib, a grey back and wings, with snow-white cheeks. Its underside is white with buff colours along the edges of its belly. Both sexes look alike but males are somewhat larger than the female. Chickadees weigh about 14 grams and have a wingspan of just over eight inches. This are a non-migratory specie and is found in every province and lives in all types of habitat from the deep woods to suburban areas. Chickadees are cavity nesters choosing natural holes in trees as well as human-provided housing. Nesting season begins in late April when the female constructs the nest on her own using moss, bark, fine grass and even animal hair. Shortly thereafter, six to eight eggs are laid and hatch in 11 to 14 days. During the incubation time, the male works hard collecting and providing food for his mate and even more so once the chicks have hatched. The young will fledge the nest after a mere 12 to 16 days. Parents continue to feed the
young for several weeks even though they are capable of catching their own food within one short week. Chickadees will have one to two broods per season depending on conditions. Before winter sets in, the young have dispersed into their own territories and winter flocks begin to form. Flocks consist of adults and new young that have moved into the area. The flocks can range in size from as small as six or eight up to eighteen. There is a notable hierarchy in flocks and rank depends on age, body condition, singing, and reproductive success. The rank of young birds that join a flock is judged on their time of arrival; those that show up first tend to have higher status. The size of territory a flock will exist in is about 15 to 20 acres and even up to 50 acres depending on food sources and habitat. Benefits of flocking in winter are roosting together in cavities at night to share body heat, more birds to help find food sources, and more awareness of potential predators. Black-capped chickadees have one of the widest vocabularies for a songbird. Scientists have recorded and described 15 different calls from this one specie. Their calls vary including short little chips, whistles,
and gargles, to their most recognized song described as chick-a-dee-dee-dee from which their name derives. The diet of chickadees is plentiful and includes seeds, caterpillars, insect eggs and larvae, and berries. During nesting time the male can be seen with his beak filled with caterpillars all day long as he continuously feeds his family. Chickadees are truly a tree’s best friend as the birds eat many nuisance bugs that can be damaging to the health of a tree. To attract chickadees to birdfeeders, consider a feeder filled with black oil sunflower. They also like shelled peanuts, suet, and really enjoy shelled sunflower seed. They will eat from almost any birdfeeder but some favourites include window feeders, platforms, and smaller sized feeders that are not dominated by House sparrows. House sparrows can be very aggressive towards chickadees and other small birds which is a real deterrent to them visiting. You can put a birdfeeder up at any time of the year to attract your own ‘little chickadee’. Enjoy! Sherrie Versluis owns the Preferred Perch and is an avid birder.
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Pegasus Publications Inc. and Lifestyles 55 is pleased to donate these 2 pages to support CJNU and community radio.
Transmissions Dispatches from community powered radio 93.7 FM CJNU
CJNU wishes you a Happy New Year! A very big thank you to our listeners
C
Those who donated $93.70 during the Pledge Drive were eligible to receive a ‘retro radio’ bluetooth speaker.
JNU 93.7 FM experienced its best annual pledge drive ever this past October, raising almost $73,000 with over 700 individual pledges, far exceeding the station’s goals, and breaking all records! “We were truly overwhelmed by the incredible support of our listeners, members and community partners during what is undoubtedly the most difficult year we have faced in our lifetimes,” says CJNU Station Manager Adam Glynn. “It is no understatement to say that we would be in a pretty poor position to face 2021 without the help of our listeners, and we cannot
thank everyone enough for supporting our 7th annual Pledge Drive.” The station thanks all sponsors, including Peak of the Market, who generously pledged 50 pounds of veggies to Manitoba Harvest for the first 500 donors. This means the charity will receive 25,000 pounds of vegetables for families in need. CJNU 93.7 FM also extends its thanks to the many sponsors who provided early bird, daily and grand prizes to a number of lucky winners. Funds from the annual pledge drive allow CJNU to grow by expanding its ability to retain a
strong on-air and online presence. The theme of this year’s four-day pledge weekend, “The Spirit of our Community” could not have been more apt. With the onset of Covid-19 in early March, CJNU 93.7 FM management had to make significant changes in how they operated to remain on air; however, their main goal was staying connected to their community of listeners. “Many of you reached out to us, making sure we knew just how important we were to you,” says Susan Earl, CJNU’s 2020 Pledge Drive Co-Chair, “providing a beacon of light on the dark days.”
Keeping connected while apart Adam Glynn
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ith 2020 still looming large in the rear-view mirror, I thought I’d explore some of the things that I’ve learned during the strangest year of my life so far. I didn’t realise until I couldn’t sit down with someone in a coffee shop (or bar), that so many problems feel just that little bit more manageable when they can be solved over a latte (or a sociable, ice-cold, adult beverage), and how important body language is when sitting with a friend or colleague. This year I learned how to communicate creatively, be it through conference calls, or video conferencing services such as Zoom. I’m no luddite, but before March I had never heard of Zoom! On that note, it didn’t take me long to learn that technology has become incredibly important in our lives, and that it is something not to be feared, but to be respected… unless it’s not doing what I asked it to do which, of course, couldn’t possibly be my fault! But in all seriousness, modern tech is an incredibly powerful tool, something we should all be able to utilise to its fullest, and something we shouldn’t take for granted. Whether you’re at a desk using a computer, browsing the web on a tablet while curled up on the sofa, or checking the latest news when grab your cell phone, it’s an intangible way of proving that you’re still a part of the wider world even when you’re staying at home.
“How do I get Zoom on this thing?”)
You could be one of us . . . Join us and help us keep nostalgia radio on the air.
Conversely, technology has its limits. When, effectively, one has access to the knowledge of the entire world in one’s purse or pocket, it can be almighty tempting to spend more time staring at a screen than at anything else. There is still real value in doing simple things ,going for walks, reading books, listening to music. It didn’t take me long to acknowledge that technology is not a panacea, but when used well and as a supplement to the tangible, it can be a positive thing in our lives. The past year reinforced for me that human beings are social creatures, even those of us who enjoy a little quiet solitude. It taught me how important it is to keep connected with those we care about the most, even if we must be apart. I know I am very lucky to live with my wonderful wife and our two cats, but I learned just how much I miss simple things like shaking someone’s hand, or hugging a friend or loved one. But finally, and arguably most importantly, 2020 reemphasised for me just how important it is to be both patient and grateful. The pace of life in the last nine months has been slower than usual, and that’s OK! We can (and must) enjoy the ‘pauses’. The last year has likely been the only time in a generation we have, as a species, had such a broadly shared experience. Taking time to be patient with others and thank others for what they do is something I hope we carry forward with us. There is so much to be thankful for, and for once, we have been afforded the time to realise it. Adam Glynn is Station Manager at CJNU.
Application for membership Nostalgia Broadcasting Co-operative Inc. Name:________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________ City:___________________ Postal Code:__________________________
CJNU is a registered co-operative and you can become a member. To join all you have to do is fill out the form below and send it in along with your membership fee. In return, you will: • Get to meet our announcers in person • Receive invitations to our social events • Gain access to all the very best contests for tickets and other prizes on the station But most of all, being a member gives you the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping to make our community better every day.
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Phone: _______________ Email Address:__________________________ Just $25 for membership Charge my: MC Visa Card #_________________________________ Exp. Date ____________ Mail to: CJNU RADIO, Richardson Building, L7 – 1 Lombard Place, Winnipeg MB R3B 0X3 January 2021
CJNU Personality of the month
Merry-Sue Adair-Gill: condensed version of my life and interests Merry-Sue Adair-Gill
A
Merry-Sue Adair-Gill
nyone who knows me, knows I love to talk. I was born in Florida in 1953. Dad went where the work was, so our family– Mom, six children and various pets, did a lot of travelling before settling down in a little town in Southwestern Ontario, in 1963. Dad decided to teach high school and we made two more moves, Kirkland Lake then Fort Frances. After college in Kingston and a brief stint as a telephone operator I joined the Canadian Forces as an electronics technician. Military life seemed to fit our family. My first posting sent me to Germany. My second, week I found the Base radio station, CFNS. After training to work the equipment I was allowed on air and was given two shows to run, a Tuesday night drive home show, and Sunday 9 to midnight show. There was a huge library of records in various genres to choose my music for each show. I met and married my husband while in Germany, and I have two wonderful sons. My last posting was to CFB Shilo with my two boys. After retirement from the
Forces, I went to work for Perimeter Aviation here in Winnipeg until I retired, finally, in 2014. My love of music started young. We had one of those huge TV, record player and radio consoles. I sang along with the radio and joined the church choir with my sisters. I even took singing lessons for a bit. Mom and Dad had an eclectic collection of records, and we all listened to the local radio stations. I heard all different varieties of music. No singing now, except in the car, with the windows rolled up. My tinnitus makes it hard to stay in key. A co-worker at Perimeter introduced me to the future CJNU. I felt at home. I knew the music/words and could “sing” along. I joined the station after years of listening, and donating and became a volunteer in 2016. The people are great to work with and are brought together from a love of music and community. I spend many hours of fun with CJNU’s members and our wide audience. I like to say “The pay is not great, but I love working here.” I appreciate when our listeners call in to comment, make requests or just chat for a few minutes. I have met some wonderful personalities here and on the phone. Keep listening as that is why CJNU is “In tune with our Community”.
A year of challenges Lorne Kearns
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hen growing up (back in the ICE AGE) one of my Mom’s favorite sayings was: “When life hands you a Lemon you just make Lemonade” Well 2020 sure handed us a bumper crop of lemons but boy did we make gallons of lemonade. Things were going along swimmingly until about Mid-March when like everyone else we were hit hard by the Covid-19 viral global pandemic. As a result many of our smaller advertisers either had to close up shop or significantly lower their costs in order to survive and advertising budgets were among the first to go. Plus, in order to follow Government quarantine regulations we had to react immediately to remain on air. Adam Glynn, our Station Manager, began to mix his lemonade cocktail immediately – and we didn’t miss a beat. Home broadcast capability was set up due in no small part to the ingenuity, sacrifice and generosity of our fabulous group of volunteer broadcasters, sound engineers (producers), who often at their own expense made sure they had the equipment necessary to be able
to broadcast from home. Not many radio stations can make that claim. To all of them, we owe a great big Thank You for at its peak we were broadcasting from some 24 locations across the city. The other major success story would have to be our Annual Pledge Drive which took place at the end of October which so far exceeded our expectations as to be almost unbelievable, it taught us to never underestimate the loyalty of the CJNU listening audience. Some 700 of you donated in excess of $73,000, far and away our most successful drive ever. Kudos to Jim Pappas, Susan Earl and their committee, as well as our always-reliable group of dedicated studio volunteers taking phone calls, without whom none of this would have been possible. On a sadder note we at CJNU lost four of our stalwarts this year: Harry Taylor, Glen Miller, Thorey Blow and Wayne Rogers. They all contributed in no small way to the growing success of “The Little Station That Can”. May they rest in peace. On a happier note we wish you all a very Joyous and Peaceful Holiday Season and May your Best day in 2020 be your Worst day in 2021. Lorne Kearns is Board Chair of Nostalgia Broadcasting Cooperative.
Lorne Kearns.
Geocaching: feel like a kid again
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think deep down inside, everyone loves a good mystery – the chance to play Sherlock Holmes or Hercule Poirot and solve a riddle or find a hidden treasure. I know I sure do! So with that in mind, I was really pleased when a friend introduced me to the sport of Geocaching. “Geo What?” I responded. “Geo – Cashing”, he said. “It's like a treasure hunt you can do in your neighbourhood or anywhere around the world! ‘’He explained that Geocaching has been around since 2000, when Global Positioning Systems, or GPS's, were developed that could pinpoint a location within a square meter. Current estimates say almost two million “treasures” have been hidden around the world, with more being added each year. Here in Winnipeg, over 2,700 Geocaches exist. Some are small capsules, containing nothing more than a slip of paper and pencil to record simple information. Larger treasures include boxes with small trinkets like pins or pennies, where you select an item to take with you, leave something in return. In every instance though, the caches have zero financial value, are always on public property and reasonably easy to find. It was with all this in mind that wife, Helga, and I recently decided to give Geocaching a try. We started by downloading a free app to my smart phone. There are a number to choose from, but the one called “Geocaching Winnipeg” seemed like the best bet. Keep it local, right? Next we created a free account in the app, by answering a few simple questions, and allowing the app to January 2021
Frank and Helga.
Hidden treasure!
access my phone's built-in GPS device, ONLY when I had the Geocache App open. That was it. We were set to hunt for treasure. When we opened the app for the first time, it took a few seconds for the GPS in my phone to connect, but when it did, it showed us the location of five caches, within one km of our house! A true feeling of excitement came over us. We were kids again! “X”, or more correctly a little blue dot, marked the spot and our evening walk become something more than just seeing what the neighbours were up to. A short 10-minute walk found us poking around the base of a billboard, when Helga said “What about this rock?” I lifted a small flat piece of limestone, and there it was: a tiny film capsule, expertly wrapped in duct tape to protect it from the elements. Inside was a slip of paper indicating we were the 5th searchers to find “the treasure”.
We listed our initials, the date and time of our discovery, and then replaced it, exactly as we found it, for the next hunter to find. Talk about fun!! With the weather getting colder, and COVID-19 taking over, our treasure hunting walks has been put on hold for the time being. We’ve replaced them with a treadmill, while hunting for the next great TV show instead. We've also started talking, with optimism, about better times to come in 2021. Europe for a Geocache hiking adventure! A walking tour of Texas, using our GPS to discover Southern treasures! Or, more realistically, finding the four remaining caches within one km of our house. Whatever level you take it to, why not give Geocaching a go, get some exercise, and discover the treasures buried in your neighbourhood. Happy Hunting!! whatsupwinnipeg.ca
15
It’s time to make a commitment to self-care
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020 was a very challenging year in ways we before. A good self-care routine can help you cope could have never imagined. It knocked us off with stress and anxiety as we navigate through these balance, tested our resolve and disrupted the unprecedented times. And remember, self-care looks rhythm of our day to day lives. Normally, a new different for everyone – it can take the form of anything you need it to be! What soothes year is a time for new beginnings and your soul might not work for someone maybe a few resolutions, which are reelse, but there is one common theme ally just promises you make to yourfor everyone – taking care of yourself self. While this year may look and feel feels really good. a little different, making a promise or commitment to self-care in 2021 is one If you are wondering how to incorpoworth making. rate self-care into your own routine, the What does self-care look like to you? Mental Health Commission of Canada An online article from PsychCentral (MHCC) has a great self-care and redefined self-care as, “any activity that silience booklet for COVID-19 that inwe do deliberately in order to take care cludes some helpful tips and a planning of our mental, emotional, and physiguide. Some of my personal self-care cal health. Good self-care is key to immust haves both new and old - turning proved mood and reduced anxiety. It’s off the TV and turning on some muKrystal Stokes also key to a good relationship with sic, getting enough sleep, trying new Healthy oneself and others.” It seems simple recipes, making gratitude lists, nature Living enough – taking some time each day walks, silly dancing with my kids, a nice to care for yourself - but when you’re cup of tea, and a few cuddles a day with living under the dark cloud of a global pandemic, it my dog! That’s what works for me and the guide can may not be as easy as it sounds. help you find what works for you. The self-care guide Without a doubt, the pandemic has impacted our also includes a list of mental health resources by provdaily routines including work, recreation and even ince. https://www.mhfa.ca/en/blog/mental-healthour social lives. Perhaps you used to go to the gym first-aid-covid-19-self-care-resilience-guide after work or out for coffee with a friend on the If you’re caring for an older adult right now, carvweekend to care for your physical or mental health. If ing out time for self-care can be even more difficult. you’re retired, maybe you volunteered or spent time Between worrying for a parent or grandparent’s safeat the local senior centre to stay connected. When ty and trying to balance work and family commiteverything closed down, many of us felt cut off from ments, caregivers experience high levels of stress and the outside world and from all the ways we used to feelings of isolation. Louise Bradley, the president of practice self-care. And perhaps most of all, we’ve the Mental Health Commission, explains, “Caregivmissed being with each other. ers are prone to putting their own mental wellness Finding new and different ways to replenish your last. But no one can pour from an empty cup…caring own internal well is more important now than ever for a loved one is noble, valuable work, but giving
yourself the gift of self-care is priceless.” Vicki Russenholt is quite familiar with the rewards and challenges of being a family caregiver to an older adult. She is the education facilitator at Victoria Lifeline and a caregiver for her mother-in-law. These past ten months have been very hard as many senior living facilities have been in and out of lockdown, but families like Vicki’s still need to provide care and emotional support to their loved one. “So many things are out of our control,” Vicki said, “I need to let go the control I normally have; the staff who are caring for her are doing their best. What I can do is call her every night to tell her how much we love her and to have sweet dreams.” So, what does self-care look like for Vicki - how does she fill that empty cup? “One thing I do every day for my mental health is go for a walk, the fresh air and exercise are so beneficial in more ways than one. During this time, I reflect on the things I am grateful for that day. These are very stressful times, but I can always find something that is positive,” she said. Vicki is also thankful for the peace of mind that Victoria Lifeline provides to both her and her mother-in-law. Knowing that they can’t be with her 24 hours a day, both Vicki and the rest of the family are so grateful that her mother-in-law has access to help around the clock at the push of a button. It helps everyone sleep a little easier at night knowing she is never alone with Victoria Lifeline. If you’d like to know more about how Lifeline can help your loved feel safe and connected, please visit victorialifeline.ca. This article is meant to be informational in nature and should not replace the advice of a trained healthcare professional. Krystal Stokes is the Communications Manager with Victoria Lifeline, a community service of the Victoria General Hospital Foundation.
Natural solutions for tinnitus relief
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ases of tinnitus, the medical term more serious condition characterized by for “ringing in the ears,” are be- tinnitus, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and coming increasingly prevalent hearing loss. Even so, one recent study found that 150 mg per day these days. The symptoms of Pycnogenol, a supplement can be intermittent or shown to be effective for constant, and may include common tinnitus, was also sound misperception, effective in improving symphissing, ringing, buzzing, toms of Meniere’s disease. or pulsing when no actual TMJ Tinnitus sound exists. Tinnitus is The two matching joints caused by a malfunction in front of our ears are called in the cochlea, a part of the temporomandibular the inner ear that converts joints. The TMJs connect sound waves into nerve the lower jaw to the skull. signals interpreted by the TMJ problems include popbrain. It’s estimated that ping sounds in the jaw, jaw up to 20% of the North Nathan Zassman stiffness and pain, headaches, American population earaches, toothaches, and of suffers from mild tinniNatural Health course tinnitus. tus symptoms, and 80% To determine if tinnitus is of sufferers hear ringing constantly. About 30% of the elderly reg- being caused by TMJ problems, a visit to your dentist may be beneficial. Small bite ularly experience tinnitus. Tinnitus is often experienced after ex- adjustments or the preparation of an oral posure to loud noises, or after listening splint may be helpful, especially if teeth to music at high volumes, especially when clenching exacerbates the tinnitus. A amplified in small spaces. High sound change in the sound of the tinnitus when levels are becoming especially problem- pushing on the jaw with the palm of your atic among those who listen to music on hand may also be a sign that it is related portable devices that direct loud music to TMJ disorders. Endothelial Dysfunction right into the eardrum with headphones. and Nitric Oxide Continuous exposure to high sound levels Tinnitus may also be a symptom of can cause permanent damage to the earpoor blood flow, brought on by impaired drum that is not correctable or treatable. Tinnitus is usually transitory, and re- blood vessel function. Cold hands and covery can be spontaneous. If it persists feet, and erectile dysfunction are common for more than six months the condition is symptoms of poor blood flow. Nitric oxconsidered chronic. In addition to expo- ide gas is produced by the endothelium, sure to loud noises, there are a number of the lining of our arteries, veins, and capilother factors that can cause or contribute laries. When nitric oxide is produced, the to the condition. Some antibiotics, com- blood vessels relax and open, increasing mon prescription medications, and non- blood flow to every part of the body, but prescription drugs can cause tinnitus. particularly the extremities (including Conducted over twenty years as part of the feet, hands, and penis). The body the U.S. National Health and Nutrition converts nitrates in foods to nitric oxide Examination Survey, a study of 27,000 through the action of the enzyme endomen aged 40 to 74 found a significant thelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Levassociation between aspirin, acetamino- els of eNOS drop around the age of 40, phen, and ibuprofen, and hearing loss. so as we age, we naturally produce less niOther common causes include head trau- tric oxide. This results in narrower blood ma, sinus and ear infections, high blood vessels and increased resistance to blood pressure, TMJ problems, hypothyroid- flow, causing the heart to work harder to move blood through the body. ism, and certain types of tumors. Impaired endothelial function which It is important to differentiate common tinnitus from Meniere’s disease, a causes poor circulation is associated with 16
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cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and erectile dysfunction. Due to reduced circulation to the inner ear, it may also contribute to tinnitus symptoms. Nitric oxide is called “the miracle molecule” because it improves endothelial function, resulting in open, relaxed blood vessels that increase blood flow to all parts of the body. You can help boost nitric oxide levels by focusing on foods that are high in antioxidants and nitrates. Foods high in nitrates include beets, kale, collard greens, spinach, cabbage, arugula, garlic, hawthorn berry, watermelon, hibiscus, and red berries including Aronia (chokeberry). Avoid eating processed and refined foods, starches, and anything “white.” Increase fibre consumption by choosing whole foods and grains. Reduce consumption of pro-inflammatory omega-6 oils like soybean, sunflower, corn, canola, safflower, and grapeseed oil. Consider intermittent fasting, proven to fight inflammation and speed the healing process. Regular exercise improves blood flow to all parts of the body, including the ear. The nutritional support provided by vitamin and mineral supplementation can have a number of benefits including lower blood pressure and better erectile function, but the improved circulation can also help reduce tinnitus symptoms. Vitamins and Minerals Vitamin A: Vitamin A is found in high concentrations in the cochlea and the retina. Sensory receptor cells that send auditory and visual signals to the brain require vitamin A and zinc. Several studies have confirmed that vitamin A provides substantial health benefits to those with tinnitus. Vitamin B12: Many studies have found a connection between B12 deficiency and auditory problems. In a published report from the American Journal of Otolaryngology, 47% of people with tinnitus were deficient in vitamin B12. B12 is often poorly absorbed in the stomach, especially for those over 40 years of age. I recommend an oral hydroxocobalamin lozenge that includes vitamin B6 and folate. Magnesium: In one study, 300 military recruits undergoing basic training
were exposed to high levels of sound, with tinnitus as the result. Those who received 167 mg of magnesium aspartate saw a significant reduction in symptoms. I recommend Magnesium and Potassium Aspartates or Magnesium L-Threonate, which is the only magnesium that has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier. Zinc: Even the marginal zinc deficiency frequently seen in older people can contribute to hearing problems similar to those caused by ear damage from noise or aging alone. In patients with sensorineural hearing loss and low serum zinc levels, zinc supplementation for 3-6 months resulted in a reduction in tinnitus for about 25% of the cases, in one trial. Another study found that 52% of patients with low serum zinc had an improvement within one month. Lifestyle Recommendations Tinnitus Retraining Therapy: Dr. Pawel Jastreboff and Jonathan Hazell developed tinnitus retraining therapy in 1990, and many have found it to work well. TRT trains the sufferer to “habituate” (grow accustomed) to the ringing that can be so disturbing. Many Canadian Hearing Society audiologists are trained in TRT therapy, which claims an 80% success rate. Ear Wax: A buildup of ear wax can contribute to tinnitus symptoms. Natural wax removal kits and ear drops that include olive oil, garlic, calendula, and other healing oils can help safely remove impacted ear wax and cleanse the ear canal. Chiropractic Adjustments: Many have found that a chiropractic adjustment known as upper cervical chiropractic care can reduce or eliminate tinnitus symptoms, and a German study indicated that some cases of tinnitus can be the result of an injury to the upper cervical spine. You can learn more about tinnitus relief and nitric oxide at AvivaHealth.com. Next month, I’ll outline a selection of additional foods and supplements shown to help address tinnitus. Integrating these lifestyle recommendations and supplements into your daily routine should help to lessen or alleviate this condition, and support overall health. Nathan Zassman is the owner and president of Aviva Natural Health Solutions. January 2021
PUZZLES
Crossword Across 1. Throat-clearing sound 5. Entr’____ 9. _____ nectar 14. West-coast “rival” of “NY, NY” 15. Natalie portrayer Mindy 16. Word with ear or child 17. Featured circus performer 19. More discourteous 20. To whom a caliph prays 21. Figure skater Oksana 23. Mountain pass 25. Bears’ home 30. Wanted poster phrase 33. Rocks, at a bar 35. Orman of CNBC 36. Said too often 37. Comforter fluff stuff 39. Basic security device 42. Be that ____ may 43. Popular font 45. “That was awesome!” 47. Shipping wts. 48. Disney Channel character 52. African gorge 53. Italian possessive pronoun 54. Bring to a close 57. Hawaiian island 61. Not so bold 65. Traffic cops, often 67. Golfer’s target 68. The younger Guthrie 69. German river 70. “Hippy Hippy ____”
71. Cry of pain 72. Part of CD-ROM Down 1. “Ronda ____ Turca” (Mozart piece) 2. Ice pellets 3. Modern sci. course 4. Oversee 5. Here, in Havana 6. Salon implement 7. “Take ____ Train” 8. Scientist Fermi 9. Emergency military operation 10. Gazelle’s cousin 11. Joining word 12. Winning symbol 13. Go off track 18. Becomes friendlier 22. Abbr. on a TV 24. Artist Cezanne 26. Bossy dinosaur in “The Land Before Time” 27. Kenny G’s record label 28. Cabbie’s command 29. “Awake and Sing!” playwright Clifford 30. DVR button 31. Wu-Tang Clan producer 32. Artoo ___ 33. Wyoming neighbor 34. Yellowish red 38. Half of Mork’s signoff 40. Bilk
Word search
41. Red ____ (sweet cinnamon bits) 44. Shirley’s TV roommate 46. Ghoul 49. Solo in “Star Wars” 50. Sideshow site 51. Got down pat 55. Their, in Munich 56. Cash drawer
58. Port or copter starter 59. Globes 60. “Hold on, gimme ____!” 61. Koop and Elders, for short 62. Royal acronym 63. Pro vote 64. Frightened cry 66. Milk additive?
Sudoku
Puzzles’ solutions on next page
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Masons Moons Muffles Organ Pansy Peters Piracy Reaps Revert Satin Shake Shines
Skewer Slung Smidgen Soups Sweet Triumphs Trumpets Ultra Weeks
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Probate fees removed in Manitoba Dorothy Dobbie
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ur current government often does not get the attention it deserves when passing legislation or changing regulations to our benefit. One of these quietly observed measures is of interest to seniors thinking about their estate. As of this past November 6, the automatic fees that used to apply to probating a will have been removed. Also, provincial sales tax is no longer assessed on legal fees for drawing up wills and tax returns. These measures alleviate some of the
burden on estates and remove the stress on seniors to transfer property to children, pre-death, on the basis that this will avoid probate fees. These transfers have created problems in the past when the child to whom the property was gifted later married, got sued or even died. Other strategies employed to avoid these fees included joint ownership, complicated multiple wills and setting up trusts. In the past, if you planned to leave your estate or part of it to someone other than a joint owner, a fee of $70 for the first $10,000 value and an additional $7 for every $1,000 thereafter, was assessed on the estate. Land transfer fees may still apply, however. In Manitoba, these fees
Covid-19 conundrums
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are on a sliding scale up to two percent on values in excess of $200,000. A property valued at $500,000 will bear a tax of $7,600 plus a $70 “registration fee” This is the highest tax in Canada and there is no rebate for first time homebuyers and there is in both Ontario and B.C. While there is no “inheritance tax” per se, property is assessed as if it had been sold prior to death at fair market value unless the inheritor is the spouse (common law or married). So children inheriting an estate would see the estate taxed at 50% of value-added gains along with any residuals of RRSPs and RRIFs that could be added as income to the final tax return of the deceased if a beneficiary is not named. This can create a pretty hefty
We have a dog that, I am told, doesn’t shed. He does. s it just me … … or are you too, starting to run out of things Not much but, dust mopping the hardwood floors is almost a daily chore depending where to do during these interesting times the morning sun comes in to reveal the we live in? Is your patience starting to cursed dust bunnies. I am sure I shed wane? I had mine tested last week … I’m more. I might have a touch of OCD (obnegative. Those who can still leave your sessive covid dusting). I’m not a clean home to go to work, even with these freak but I like clean and I seem to have challenging days at least have a change more time than ever to do just that. The of scenery, environment and more social problem is, as time passes, there is less to interaction. clean on a daily basis. If I went out of my I take care of the laundry. Always have. way to do more, I believe it would lead No big deal. As I have said for many to an all-out disorder. years to those I know, laundry is what My wife renewed her interest in acrylic you do when you are doing other things. painting which is a great pastime, one One machine does the washing and anshe enjoys and she’s good at. I painted other dries it. Job done. I clean out the Jim Ingebrigtsen the front hall closet (which didn’t need lint catcher after the dry cycle is finished to be painted). I can’t find anything else but and I actually wash the screen occaIs It Just Me... sionally especially if you use fabric softthat needs painting. I’m not quite ready ener dryer sheets. It might look clean but for jigsaw puzzles but I can see myself there is a build-up of some sort of gunk you can’t see. moving in that direction. I saw one the other day that Now I’m wondering if I should seek professional help. had “two to for years” on the box. I laughed. I bet I
tax bill for the estate, although there are Lifetime Capital Gains Exemptions and exceptions for principle residences. By the way, the executor of an estate is paid five percent of the estate’s value in Manitoba, but it is not a task for the casual administrator. There are many rules and requirements, plus liabilities, that should make you think twice before accepting this responsibility. The best advice is to consult a qualified wills and estates lawyer to have a legally biding will drawn up. By the way, if you have been thinking of including elaborate plans for your own funeral in your will, know that there is nothing in the law to compel your wishes to be followed.
could have it finished in four to five days. I’ve gone through the kitchen drawers and cleaned and sorted everything in them. All the spices are in alphabetical order. All the knives are sharpened. The tools in the workshop are organized as they are in the garage. All the shoes are polished and the boots are waterproofed. We were washing windows outside on December 9. I rid the back yard of doggie doo twice a day whether it needs it or not. The bird feeders are filled regularly so they’re well fed, which means the squirrels are fed. And, as the first question every day in our house is, “What are we doing for dinner?”, so are we. Or maybe I’m just fed up. None of us has ever experienced the times we are in. Lest we forget, during the last pandemic there was no Netflix, television or any social media. Even the telephone was relatively new. Sadly, happy hour with neighbours is postponed until further notice. But I was wondering … “Can you put vodka in a humidifier?” Keep safe, keep clean and when you can, raise a glass to all the frontline workers.
New crafts emporium opens on Main Street and Kolt becomes social media hit!
H
appy New Year! Though it is been sitting on its well-washed hands as still a few weeks away as we we earnestly await the vaccines that will protect us. We have been write this column working hard to perfect and it breaks a long-held our social media presence Scottish rule that forbids all over town with on-line the celebration of the new shopping opportunities for year until the old one is local goods from artisans well and truly gone, we and crafters through the are so grateful that 2020 Flin Flon Arts Council’s is over and done that we Virtual Christmas Arts and are throwing caution to Crafts Sale and the brand the winds. There is no new Uptown Emporium, way next year could be a store-front on Main any worse for individuals Street dedicated to selling and especially for the arts handcrafted goods made communities anywhere in Elly Spencer by artisans in northern the world than our recent The arts from communities. Customers COVID-infected past has up here can order on-line and use been, so roll on 2021, you curb-side pick-up or delivare so welcome. That being said, Flin Flon has not ery service to obtain their purchases. The Northern Visual Arts Centre (NorVA) also set up a Last Minute Market for gifts with on-line purchasing and home delivery of artwork before Christmas. The photographs on their website of the items available for sale
were works of art in and of themselves so cheers to their social media consultant, Noelle Drimmie, for that. On Christmas Eve, local radio station CFAR broadcaster and pod-caster Raphael Saray, along with his wife, Susan Gunn-Saray, hosted Christmas Time is Here featuring musical guests Mark Kolt, Kim Jones, Lane Laderoute and Jacob Harvie along with several surprise guests bringing greetings, to warm our hearts and feed our music hungry souls in time for the big day. The Flin Flon Arts Council YouTube channel can be accessed at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCfCgLh418OTxLF7ji1Pjr0Q and is well worth the look. Speaking of YouTube and Mark Kolt, he has become a somewhat unlikely sensation. Many years ago, Kolt wrote the first of several Christmas carols that have enjoyed yearly playing here in Flin Flon. The carol Star of Bethlehem is really pretty and is a perennial favourite at Flin Flon Community Choir Christmas Concerts, which of course, could
not happen in 2020. Kolt recorded the musical accompaniment and uploaded it to YouTube for soprano Kim Jones, who had agreed to provide the vocals for the afore-mentioned on-line concert, to practice with. Kolt has uploaded many pieces of music to YouTube during this Christmas season, all instrumentals and with all instruments being played by him, just to keep Flin Flonners warm and comfortable while we long for live performances. The pieces he chose are both sacred and secular and you could put them on to play on your computer while you buzzed around getting ready for whatever celebration you could manage. Then he uploaded ‘Star of Bethlehem’. It received 400+ views per day in December, something Kolt states has never happened before and even more unusually, over 70% of these views are in the United States of America. Well done Mark Kolt, way to fly the flag! Music surely is the universal language and can be a positive influence when times are hard.
Puzzles’ solutions
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whatsupwinnipeg.ca
January 2021
Insulation is the key to helping with your energy budget
Y
ou are probably spending a lot more money heating your home than you have to, due to inefficiencies that you may not have recognized. There are many places where heat can escape in amounts you might not have imagined – up top 35 percent in some ares: • Windows and doors 25% heat loss • Walls and ceilings 35% heat loss • Attic or lofts spaces 25% heat loss • Basements and floor 15% heat loss Each one of these plays Brent Poole a vital role with in-house Home economy savings in the Improvements longer term. Where to start is a major concern for most homeowners. Walls would be the recommended place simply for math purposes. With the possibility of a 35% heat loss, better insulation is key to keeping the home warmer on colder days and in keeping the home cooler in warmer days. Winnipeg homes average 40 years of age. Much has changed in insulation technology over those years. Improvements include blown-in/loose fill insulation, which is typically used in larger more open spaces, to batts of fibreglass or rock wool, precut and designed for easy handling. Finally, there is foam board, or rigid panels. These can be used in any part of the home. Knowing what product to use and where you to use it will help in your decision making process. If you have small areas to re-insulate, there are specific products, for example, spray foam, ideal for small spaces, cracks, doors and window seals; and vapour barriers, which are used to help control moisture. The big thing to remember is the R-value? What is that? You may ask? Thermal resistance is defined as the ratio of the temperature difference between the two faces of a material to the rate of heat flow per unit area. Sounds all very technical, simplified, the higher the number the better it is for you and your home. See the graph to give you some sort of idea. It is best to connect with your contractor to ascertain true readings before knocking walls down and reinsulating. We would recommend using a thermal imaging camera to see if there are cold spots in the wall. We may also
Insulation will make a big difference with your energy budget.
Good
Better
Best
Ceilings below attics Cathedral ceilings and flat roofs Floors over unheated spaces Walls above grade Foundation/basement walls
R-50 Batt or Blown Insulation R-31 Batt Insulation R-28 Batt Insulation R-19 Batt Insulation R-14 or R-12 Batt Insulation + R-5 CodeBord®
R-60 Batt or Blown Insulation R-31 Batt Insulation + R-5 CodeBord® R-31 Batt Insulation + R-5 CodeBord® R-19/22 Batt Insulation + R-7.5/10 CodeBord® R-14 Batt Insulation + R-7.5/10 CodeBord®
R-60 Batt or Blown Insulation R-31 Batt Insulation + R-10 CodeBord® R-31 Batt Insulation + R-10 CodeBord® R-24 Batt Insulation + R-15 CodeBord® R-22 Batt Insulation + R-10 CodeBord®
use old technology, which is to remove a plug from the wall and measure from back to front the depth of insulation currently in place. In doing this we could also check to see if there is a recommended vapour barrier. Another way is to simply check to see if there is cold air coming in from around the baseboards, in this way it would indicate that the insulation is poor within the wall itself.
No matter which you chose, always check with your contractor, they should know the best course of action to take. Brent Poole is the owner operator of Handy Hands Construction, which he has run with his father Jim since 1997. A carpenter by trade, Brent enjoys all types of projects. “We’re not happy until you are happy!”
From lockdowns to locking in for recovery
Canadian report forecasts moderate escalation for on, bc and qc in 2021; and low escalation for prairies and the Atlantic provinces
B
TY is pleased to release its 17th annual Market Intelligence Report (MIR) for the construction industry across Canada, including market snapshots for the U.S., the U.K., Ireland, Turkey and the EECA. The firm expects recovery efforts and accelerated trends from 2020 will spur investment opportunities in best positioned markets and sectors in the New Year. The MIR forecasts projected construction cost escalation in Canada, and provides insight on trends, market and sector drivers and drags, and innovations on building strategies, materials and techniques. The escalation forecast for 2021 projects moderate escalation of 3% to 5% in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec, with low escalation in Alberta (1% to 3%), Saskatchewan (0% to 2%), Manitoba (1% to 3%), and the Atlantic Provinces (0% to 2%). The continuing impacts of COVID-19 on construction are being felt unevenly by province as well as sector, creating a mixed economic outlook across the country. While the residential forecast grew strongly in late 2020, uncertainty remains about longer-term expansion given the sharp drop in imJanuary 2021
migration and reduced foreign direct investment due to the pandemic. Infrastructure, renewable energy and industrial building are forecast to be the top performing sectors, with mega projects in BC, Quebec and Ontario counterbalancing declines in commercial and leisure sectors. Investment in renewable energy is the bright spot in Alberta, which, like most provinces, is also increasing investment in infrastructure to boost the economies. "The construction industry's ability to rally after pandemic lockdowns and return to work safely reflects the resilience and adaptability it has shown through past crises and economic downturns," says Managing Director Toby Mallinder. "In the longer term, we are expecting changes driven by COVID-19 – especially in technology – to accelerate improved productivity. Achieving – and surpassing – pre-2020 construction activity levels still depends on a robust economic recovery supported by a speedy, successful and sustained vaccine rollout." With Canada's economic growth forecast projected to return to positive territory in 2021, the overall outlook for construction remains favourable, albeit with some regional variation. Here
is a province-by-province summary: Ontario: An already robust infrastructure program – bolstered by increased government stimulus spending – will help offset sharp declines in commercial building and a projected dip in housing starts. British Columbia: Mega energy projects, a long roster of major infrastructure projects and government stimulus spending will keep BC construction buoyant. Alberta: The second sharpest economic contraction among provinces will prolong the return of construction to pre-2020 levels. The bright spot is rapidly growing private sector investment in renewables. Saskatchewan: Continuing weakness in the energy and mineral mining sectors are slowing recovery, but booming agrifood production and exports will help the Province weather the storm until recovery takes hold. Manitoba: Manitoba – expected to experience the least economic impact from COVID-19 – will still see construction declines across the board despite new government infrastructure spending. Quebec: With multiple major transportation projects underway, supported by added government investment in in-
frastructure, the non-residential sector should soon return to pre-2020 levels. Residential recovery may take longer to gain momentum but remains one of the hottest markets in the country. Atlantic Canada: Buoyed by major capital spending, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick will bounce back stronger and faster than Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. Slow – and even negative population growth – will be an added drag. BTY Group has been publishing its annual industry review of construction cost forecasts across Canada since 2003. Over the years, the Market Intelligence Report has earned a reputation in the property, infrastructure and finance communities for crucial insights on factors behind the changing marketplace and reliable unit rate cost projections for the coming year. A full copy of the report can be accessed on our website at www.bty.com/ from-lockdowns-to-locking-in-for-recovery/ About Bty BTY is an award-winning professional consultancy providing complete project solutions in real estate and infrastructure asset planning, development, operations and transactions. Source: BTY Group. whatsupwinnipeg.ca
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January 2021