May 28, 2015

s r o i n e connection S JUNE 2015

Russ and Brenda Widess capture Alberni Valley’s beauty Page 6 Susie Quinn photo

Alberni Valley

NEWS Every home ◆ Every Friday ◆ Every day online

2

www.albernivalleynews.com

Seniors Connections May 2015

Valley salutes Seniors' Week • June 7–13

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Seniors Week cannot happen without many hands coming together to organize, support, cheer on and ensure things get done. The Seniors Week organizing committee managed to get together for a photo at Echo Centre in between organizing the week’s events.

Even when you’re unable to call, we can still help!

Lifeline with Auto Alert is the FIRST medical alert pendant that can call for help even when you can’t!

For more information call

AutoAlert does not detect 100% of falls.

If able, you should always press your button.

6985315

Alberni Lifeline Monitoring 250-731-1370 x 48147

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

3

Seniors' Week at a glance: MONDAY, JUNE 8

◆

Scotia Bank Seniors’ Appreciation Day: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm

◆

Table Games: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon

◆

Tables Games: 10:00 am

◆

Tai Chi: 9:45 – 10:45 am

◆

Cribbage Tournament: 12:45 pm

◆

Table Tennis: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon

◆

Outrigger Canoeing on Sproat Lake: 10:20 am

◆

Pottery Open House: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

◆

Heritage Place Tour and Afternoon Tea: 1:00 pm

◆

Live Music at the Jade Restaurant: 5:00 pm

◆

“Bingo Bonanza” at Echo Village: 1:30 – 3:00 pm

◆

Rainbow Gardens “Seniors’ Prom” – 6:00 – 8:00 pm

◆

Dragon Boat Paddling: 6:30 – 7:30 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 13

SUBMITTED PHOTO

TUESDAY, JUNE 9 ◆

Kick up your heels with the Sunshine Club and other organizations during Seniors Week, June 7–13.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10

Table Tennis: 8:45 – 10:45 am

Table Games: 10:00 am - 12:00 Noon

◆

Water Shed Tour: 9:00 – 11:00 am

◆

◆

“Balance Class for Women” at Curves: 9:15 am

◆

Disc Golf: 10:00 am

◆

Floor Curling: 9:30 am - 12:00 noon

P.A. Train Station: 1:00 – 4:00 pm

◆

Woodworking at the Old Arena: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon

The Industrial Heritage Centre (Old Arena): 1:00 – 4:00 pm

◆

Carpet Bowling: 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Sunshine Club Special Events Program: 1:00 pm

◆

Table Tennis 7:00 – 9:00 pm

◆

◆

◆

◆

Estate & Will Planning Workshop at CCCU: 1:00 pm

◆

Cribbage Tournament sponsored by the Legion #293: 1:00 pm

◆

Tea at Abbeyfield: 1:30 – 3:00 pm

9:10 am - 12:00 Noon ◆

Woodworking: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon

◆

CIBC Seniors Appreciation Day: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm

◆

Convenient Baking for Seniors Seminar at CCCU: 1:00 pm

◆

Carpet Bowling: 1:00 – 3:00 pm

◆

Whist – 1:00 – 3:00 pm

◆

Old Time Fun and Games at the Alberni Valley Museum: 2:30 – 4:30 pm

◆

Dragon Boat Paddling: 6:30 – 7:30 pm

THURSDAY, JUNE 11 ◆

Outrigger Canoeing: 8:50 am

◆

Fire Safety with Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Randy Thoen: 9:30 – 11:00 am

◆

Floor Curling:

◆

FRIDAY, JUNE 12 ◆

Seniors’ Week Trip: 9:00 am

◆

Coastal Community Credit Union Seniors’ Appreciation Day: All Day

Hike with the Sunshine Club Hikers: 10:00 am

MONDAY JUNE 8 – FRIDAY, JUNE 12 ◆

Adult Swim: 11:30 – 1:00 pm & 1:00 – 3:00 pm for Adult Lanes/Everyone Welcome

◆

Gentle Aquafit: 12:00 – 12:45 pm

◆

TD Canada Trust: complimentary coffee◆ Connect Hearing – free hearing tests. Phone to make appointment.

◆

Free Hearing Screening at NexGen Hearing: 9:00 – 5:00 pm

◆

Fairway Market : free coffee and cookies

◆

Buy Low Foods: complimentary coffee

◆

Save On Foods: a $100 gift card for anyone 100 years or “better”

4

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

So much to do!

30th annual Seniors Week packed with events June 7–13 The Seniors Week committee in Port Alberni has gone all out to offer a full week of activities, from displays at Echo Centre to informative workshops, a glimpse at programs available through the Sunshine Club, deals to be had by participating businesses, and of course stuff with no point other than to have fun.

We have included a selection of the special events planned for this week, as well as a few features on some of the people who are showing

the younger generation that getting old doesn’t mean getting stale.

Please note that many of the activities require you to pick up tickets at Echo Centre. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis. The Sunshine Club office is open Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 7

Lion’s Club FREE Pancake and Sausage Breakfast – for seniors 65+

9:00 am or 10:30 am

Enjoy a delicious pancake and sausage breakfast provided by the Lion’s Club in the Cedar Rooms at Echo Centre to kick off Seniors’ Week.

The tickets are free and are available at Echo Centre.

There are two times to choose from: 9:00 am or 10:30 am. Please specify which sitting you want to go to when you pick up your ticket.

There is a limit of 100 people for each sitting.

All seniors 65 and better are welcome to attend.

Monday, June 8

Introduction to Tai Chi at Echo Centre for ages 50+

9:45 – 10:45 am Welcome beginners: release that dreadful stress, stay calm and enjoy the feeling of well-being. Tai Chi Chih is a set of 20 smooth, flowing, soft and gentle circular movements that promotes health and wellness on all levels. Tai Chi Chih is suitable for all, regardless of age or physical condition. Wear loose clothing and slippers or socks.

We Have “Tax Free Investment” Accounts individuals can shelter more than just savings account interest; shelter dividends & capital gains. See us for more options Please Contact:

MITCH GARDNER, CFP 250-723-4970 mgardner@globalsec.com www.mgardner.ca

Global Securities CORPORATION

6982698

investment advisor

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

5

From games to paddling: try out everything Table Games at Echo Centre - for ages 50+ 10:00 am - 12:00 Noon

The Sunshine Club Table Games group welcomes you to drop in to Echo Centre to learn and play some table games – including card games Rummy 500, Euchre or Phase 10 or a game of Scrabble.

“Try out Paddle” with Outrigger Canoeing on Sproat Lake – open to all adults

10:20 am The Sproat Lake Canoe Club invites seniors to try out a paddle in an outrigger canoe. Our group meets at Victoria Quay at 10:20 a.m. to carpool to the dock at Sproat Lake Landing.

Paddling starts at 11 a.m.

You don’t need to have any experience with canoeing to give this a try.

Life jackets and paddles are supplied for everyone.

Please phone Darrell at 250 723-0640 if you have any questions and to reserve your spot in the boat.

Club Cribbage Tournament are organizing a special Seniors’ Week Cribbage Tournament on Monday, June 8 at Echo Centre. The cost to register is $4.00 per team; register at the Sunshine Club office by June 1. A maximum of 40 teams (80 people). Six games of crib will be played. Please register by Monday, June 1.

“Bingo Bonanza” at Echo Village – for ages 55+

1:30 – 3:00 pm The residents and staff of Echo Village invite you to join them in an afternoon of fun and laughter as they enjoy an afternoon of “Bingo Bonanza”. Tickets are free.

Tour and Afternoon Tea at Heritage Place – 1 pm

“Heritage Place” (located behind Echo Village) invites seniors to come to Heritage Place for a tour. Tickets are free and can be picked up at Echo Centre.

The West Coast Dragon Boat Society welcomes people to come out to Sproat Lake Landing to experience dragon boat paddling. No equipment is necessary—it will all be supplied free of charge.

Carpooling is available by calling Donna James at 250 723-6865. Please sign up in the Sunshine Club office at Echo Centre or phone 250 720-2505. Limit of 20 people.

Tuesday, June 9

Table Tennis at Echo Centre – for ages 50+

Echo Sunshine Club

Cribbage Tournament at Echo Centre – for ages 50

Dragon Boat Paddling - for

“Fun beg

8:45 – 10:45 am Drop by Echo Centre for

a game of table tennis. All

If you’re 50+, check out the many different programs and services availa equipment is supplied. ages 50+ 12:45 pm the Echo Sunshine Club. There are over 50 different activities to choose f Directors of the Sunshine 6:15 – 7:30 pm Continued / 8 a copy of the monthly newsletter at Echo Centre or call 250 720-­2505 fo

Echo Sunshine Club

“Fun begins at 50”

If you’re 50+, check out the many different programs and services available through the Echo Sunshine Club. There are over 50 different activities to choose from. Pick up a copy of the monthly newsletter at Echo Centre or call 250 720-­2505 for more info.

Physical Activities

Volunteering

Music and Dance

Bus Trips

Friendly Phone Service Lunc

Physical Activities Volunteering Music and Dance Bus Trips Friendly Phone Service Special Events Hobbies Holiday Tours Cards and Games Trailer Club Lunch Service Hobbies Holiday Tours Cards and Games Trailer Club Lunch Service Lunch Bunch

EchoSunshineClubSpecad

6985322

4255 4255 WallaceWallace Street, Port Alberni,Port BC V9Y 3Y6 PHONE: 250 720-2505 EMAIL: sunshine-club@live.com Street, Alberni, BC V9Y 3Y6 PHONE: 250 720-2505 EMAIL: sunshine-clu

EchoSunshineClubSpecad

6

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

Couple captures Valley’s charm PHOTOGRAPHY: | Brenda and Russ Widdess find beauty in the most amazing places.

SUSAN QUINN ALBERNI VALLEY NEWS

PHOTOS COURTESY R&B PHOTOGRAPHY

Russ Widdess, loaded down with camera equipment, takes a break on a photo trek.

came onto the scene, Russ bought a small one. “They were great because you could take as many photos as you wanted and you didn’t have to wait two weeks to be disappointed.”

Pre-retirement meant motorcycle touring and fishing, until Brenda became more interested in the photography.

“She started taking the

◆ COUGAR PHOTOS the couple took last January quickly went viral, as people shared the images around the world.

Exquisite hand crafted items

15% OFF for Seniors Week

6985400

FOR SENIORS DURING SENIOR WEEK ONLY (excluding the breakfast menu)

QUICKfacts

Blue Fish Gallery

Little Valley Deli

20% OFF MENU

pictures,” says Russ. “Quite frankly she’s better than me at composing things. I’m more of an action shooter. I like shooting wildlife.

“We’re just self-taught, by reading and watching what’s going on,” he adds.

The Widdesses don’t limit their curiosity to the Alberni Valley.

4309 10th Ave. (corner of Roger & 10th) 250-724-0827

2907 2nd Ave • 778-419-3474

6985390

Russ and Brenda Widdess are two popular people on social media, thanks to their photographic prowess and their love of Port Alberni.

The pair can often be found behind the lenses of their digital SLR cameras, capturing the latest kiteboarding action at Harbour Quay or framing quintessential images of the Alberni Valley in their viewfinders.

Russ has always been interested in photography, beginning with a Brownie Instamatic he had when he was younger. “I was so disappointed with the pictures because they didn’t look anything like the ones in Life Magazine,” he says, grinning. “When the kids were small we had better cameras but they weren’t great; we couldn’t afford a better camera.”

When digital photography

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

7

Widdesses find treasure through the lens Born and raised in Port The couple, who will have Alberni in a home on Ninth been married for 45 years in Avenue, Brenda caught the October, love to spend time travel bug early. “My dad outdoors fishing, gardening and mom have travelled all and especially birding. over the world,” she says.

“You meet some interesting Her father worked at Alberni people,” says Brenda.

Plywood and was chosen to “We go from bird go to Malaysia and work at [sanctuaries] to grizzly a fibre mill overseas for two bears in our pursuit of years. everything,” says Russ.

“They came home with so They have travelled to many stories,” says Brenda. both of Russ’ boyhood “That’s where we get our homes and drove the Top of adventure from.” the World Highway between Brenda recalls many a Alaska and Yukon. They plan family camping adventure to head to Las Vegas for a when she was younger— drag race and on to a wildlife something her friends refuge near Albuquerque, couldn’t understand. “My New Mexico in the future. girlfriends never went They are not so discerning anywhere,” she relates. that they cannot find visual PHOTO COURTESY R&B PHOTOGRAPHY “Every summer my dad treasures right here at home.

Brenda Widdess is known for her collages of Alberni Valley would get out the old canvas Between the two of them, moments on the Heart of Vancouver Island Facebook page. tent and would take us they capture the beauty, to the Shuswap. We went action and humour of the everywhere.”

Alberni Valley. Their work is often featured Russ was raised in Vancouver and on The Heart of Vancouver Island Facebook moved to Port Alberni with his family page (as well as the Worst Place to Live in 1956, when his father was transferred page). Although they have had many here. “We moved around a lot,” he says: requests to sell their photos more formally from Dawson City, Yukon Territory to (Russ shoots the Thunder in the Valley drag Quadra Island. race and sells photos to the racers), they are content to Russ spent 45 years working at Alberni Pacific Division share their love of the Alberni Valley via social media.

(APD) sawmill, running the dry kiln facility for 24 years.

“What we try to do is tell a story,” says Russ. “We have so He and Brenda still live in the house they built overlooking much going for us here.” both APD and the former plywood site, now Canal Beach. editor@albernivalleynews.com

“ ‘What we try to do is tell a story.’

✁

ENTRY FORM

McLean Mill Live Edge Wood Coffee Table Custom Made

NAME:

...................................................................................................

PHONE:

..............................................................................................

Drop your entry form at Home Hardware before June 14, 2015.

6944909

EnteWr in to

Must be 65+ to enter

8

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

Who loves a good game of cribbage?

Water Shed Tour – for ages 55+

9:00 – 11:00 am Join staff from the City Works Department to view the city’s water infrastructure. You’ll board the van at Echo Centre at 9:00 am and travel to the City Works Department to view the automation (telemetry), then head to the China Creek intake, Bainbridge Lake, Bainbridge Pumphouse and Cowichan Reservoirs. The tour involves some walking, so please wear appropriate footwear and dress for the weather.

Woodworking at the Old Arena, 10:00 – 12:00 pm

Join the volunteers

from the Sunshine Club Woodworking Shop and check out their shop, located in the Industrial Heritage Society building.

“Balance Class for Women” at Curves

9:15 am at Curves Curves is holding a free specialty class, Balance for Women. This 20-minute, lowintensity class is designed to improve balance, stability and core strength. Phone the Sunshine Club office at 250 720-2505 to sign up.

Tea at Abbeyfield – for ages 55+ 1:30 – 3:00 pm

You are invited for afternoon tea and socializing with the

Family Restaurant

SENIORS’ WEEK SPECIALS SUNDAY JUNE 7

Buy 1 Smorgasbord & get the 2nd Smorgasbord 1/2 PRICE

residents of Abbeyfield.

There will be coffee, tea and tasty goodies in their lovely dining room. Take a tour of their home and learn more about Abbeyfield.

Cribbage Tournament sponsored by the Legion #293 – for seniors 55+

1:00 pm The Royal Canadian Legion #293 (located at 4680 Victoria Quay) will be hosting a cribbage tournament for all seniors in celebration of Seniors’ Week. There is no cost to play in this tournament and tickets are not required. Just drop in with your partner at 12:30 pm at the upstairs hall.

Wednesday, June 10

Disc Golf at Echo Centre, 10 am

Spring is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the disc golf course. The Sunshine Club disc golfers meet in the lobby of Echo Centre. Both beginners and experienced players are invited. Discs are also available for purchase at the Echo Centre front counter or Sunshine Club members are

MONDAY - SATURDAY JUNE 8-13

LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU! DISCOUNTS ARE FOR ALL SENIORS 65+

4785 Beaver Creek Rd • 250-723-2474

6985393

6985258

Buy 1 Entree and get the 2nd Entree 1/2 PRICE

welcome to borrow one of the club’s discs.

Sunshine Club Special Events Program at Echo Centre – for ages 50+ 1:00 pm The Sunshine Club will host the Special Events Program starting at 1:00 pm.

We are pleased to announce the Old Tyme Fiddlers will be performing as our entertainment.

Refreshments will be served after the entertainment, compliments of the Echo Sunshine Club. Anyone with a birthday in June or July will also be honoured with a piece of birthday cake.

Table Tennis at Echo Centre – for ages 50+ 7:00 – 9:00 pm If table tennis in the morning doesn’t work for your schedule, why not join us in the evening? The Sunshine Club table tennis players invite you to drop by for a game. All equipment is supplied and all you need to bring is yourself.

However, if you do have your own table tennis racquet, you are encouraged to bring it along with you.

This is a free event.

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

9

Echo Centre hosts Seniors Week displays Several displays will be front and centre at Echo Centre during Seniors’ Week.

Better At Home Program–Information Table at Echo Centre 10:30 am–1:00 pm, Monday - Friday

The Port Alberni “Better at Home” Program will be at Echo Centre during Seniors’ Week from June 8 to June 12, 10:30 am – 1:00 pm. Better at Home is a program to help seniors continue to live independently in their own homes by providing access to simple nonmedical support services coordinated and delivered locally using a mix of paid workers and volunteers.

Stop by Echo Centre and find out more about the Better at Home program.

If you would like to speak with a Better at Home representative, please contact Barb Stevenson and Lynn Turner at pabetterathome@shaw.ca or phone 778-419-3000.

Community Policing Table at Echo Centre 11:00 am–3:00 pm, Monday–Friday

Please stop by Echo Centre and visit the Community Policing table.

Pick up crime prevention brochures and gain some valuable tips on making yourself and your home safe against home invasions.

Volunteers from the Community Policing Society will also be there to answer any questions and provide you information.

Fire Safety Display at Echo Centre

Drop by Echo Centre and pick up information on fire prevention and safety.

Learn how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. A display by the Port Alberni Fire Department will be in the Echo Centre lobby.

Echo Centre Lobby Wall Display by students of Maquinna Elementary School

Children from Maquinna Elementary School will be highlighting their work by

providing a display on the lobby walls of Echo Centre from May 25 to June 19.

These students will be displaying art and poems about their grandparents and the importance of seniors in their lives.

“Faces of the Sunshine Club” Lobby Display Case at Echo Centre

In celebration of Seniors’ Week, the Sunshine Club has arranged a display highlighting the activities and members of their club.

The display features photos of the Sunshine Club and will be available for viewing in the Echo Centre lobby from May 25 to June 19.

We know what it’s like to get on in years as we celebrate our 100th birthday we want to invite all the seniors to Save on Foods during June 7th to June 13th to receive 10% off your grocery purchases.*

Are you celebrating your 100th birthday this year?

Save On Foods will give you a $100 Save On Foods gift card in honour of your 100th birthday! *excluding lotto, tobacco, gift cards, prescriptions, clinics, tickets, bus passes, postage stamps. Seniors are 55+.

6983781

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

QUICKfacts ◆ TUESDAY, JUNE 9, ESTATE & WILL PLANNING WORKSHOP, 1–1:30 P.M. Everyone can benefit from the development of an estate plan. Learn how to retain more of your assets, protect your estate and leave a lasting legacy to your loved ones. Topics include creating an estate plan, preparation of wills, methods of transferring your estate, taxes, power of attorney, implementing family trusts, advising trustees and more.

There will be time set aside for asking questions too. ◆ DEADLINE TO SIGN UP IS FRIDAY, MAY 29 Call the Sunshine Club office at 250-720-2505. ◆ RHONDA JOHNSON OF RLR LAWYERS will hold this estate and will planning session. ◆ THE WORKSHOP WILL BE HELD at the Coastal Community Credit Union Office, 3009 Fourth Ave. Beverages and treats provided.

Admission is free but registration is required.

Learn about fire and falls “Fire and Fall Prevention” Program with Fire Safety and Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Randy Thoen at Echo Centre – ages 50+ 9:30 – 11:00 am The “Fire and Fall Prevention” Program, which Port Alberni Fire Department fire prevention officer Randy Thoen will present on Thursday, June 11 at Echo Centre, was designed for Older Adults by the NFPA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help older adults live safely at home for as long as possible.

It is centered around 16 key safety messages – eight fire prevention and eight fall prevention.

This program was developed by experts from national and local safety organizations as well as through focus group testing in high-fire-risk states. It targets a range of older adults and is meant to be of interest to active seniors.

Did you know that seniors aged 65 and over are twice as

QUICKfacts ◆ FIRE AND FALL Prevention program takes place Thursday, June 11, 9:30–11 a.m. at Echo Centre with Fire Prevention Officer Randy Thoen. Call 250-720-2505 to register.

Free admission.

likely to be involved in a firerelated incident? And by the age of 75, that risk increases to three times—and four times by age 85.

Fires and burns are not the only hazards that threaten older citizens. Statistics show that falls are the leading cause of death from

unintentional injury in the home. Thirty percent of people age 65 and older are involved in falls each year.

By focusing attention on these two serious issues, the community can make a measurable improvement in the health and well-being of older adults, says Thoen.

The Fire and Fall Prevention program is designed to prevent injuries among older adults and help them live safely at home.

Thoen will provide information on how to keep your home fire safe by planning and eliminating hazards, explain the common causes of fires and what to do when they happen.

ALBERNI DISTRICT CO-OP

SENIORS RECEIVE Free Draw for a

$50 Gift Card at either location June 7-13, 2015

4006 Johnston Rd. 250-724-0008

6985233

10

6985399

Our profits are your profits.

Lifetime membership benefits for only $10!

LOCALLY INVESTED Seniors receive $15% Discount

(regular priced items only) for seniors week

COMMUNITY MINDED

LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS visit adcoop.ca

4885 Beaver Creek Road • 250-723-2831 4006 Johnston Road • 250-724-0008

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

11

QUICKfacts ◆ MCLEAN MILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE is offering seniors a coupon for half price off the seniors’ admission rate for the mill and/or steam train.

Pick up your coupon between June 7–13 at the Sunshine Club office at Echo Centre, then present the coupon any weekday between July 2–Aug. 28 and receive half off your ticket.

SUSAN QUINN/ALBERNI VALLEY NEWS

Jack James, of JJ Logging, is a well known face at the steam donkey display at McLean Mill.

Past comes alive with JJ Logging Ask Jack James to tell you a story about his logging days and be warned: James spent more than 50 years in the woods and he’s got a story for

SENIORS

RECEIVE FREE COFFEE & GROCERY DELIVERY JUNE 7TH THROUGH 13TH 4647 Johnston Rd. Port Alberni

bunkhouse fires at Camp A Englewood, where his father found work. Throughout his career he worked most of the big camps on the coast and learned to operate most of the machinery.

He spent his final 33 years as a woods foreman before retiring—the first time—in 1992.

250-723-4811

◆ FOR MORE INFO on the Alberni Valley Heritage Network, including McLean Mill National Historic Site, the steam train, Maritime Discovery Centre and Alberni Valley Museum, go online to www. alberniheritage.com.

Continued / 12

seniors 10% OFF 4824 johnston rd. port alberni 250-720-0900

monday - thursday lunch or dinner, lunches: 11:30 am - 8 pmpm 11:30 am - 4:00

6985330

SUSAN QUINN ALBERNI VALLEY NEWS

darn near every day.

James grew up around mills following in his father’s footsteps. “Logging was all I ever knew,” says James.

He moved to B.C. with his family in 1942 when he was 11 years old and spent the rest of his logging career plying the woods of the west coast.

He started when he was 11, lighting the cookhouse and

6985212

MCLEAN MILL: | Jack James and his crew operate oldtime logging.

◆ NOT VALID in combination with other offers, discounts, promotions or select special events. FMI: call 250-723-1376.

12

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

Oldtime logging done in real time

QUICKdates ◆ PORT ALBERNI TRAIN STATION on Wednesday, June 10 from 1–4 p.m. ride the rails on the hand pump car, visit the new “old trucks” and enjoy the display in the truck depot of the station.

No fee or tickets are required (donations accepted). Everyone is welcome.

From / 11

James is the boss of the oldtime logging operation at McLean Mill National Historic Site. It was his idea to create the steam donkey and spar tree demonstration, as a way to preserve the heritage of old-time logging. The Alberni Valley boasts of one of only a couple of authentic logging demonstrations in North America—and James was brought in as a consultant at one of the others.

The 1929 Washington Iron Works steam donkey at McLean Mill fired into action in June 2009, and the operation has entertained thousands of spectators from around the world ever since.

James works with his JJ Logging crew, comprised of retired millworkers or former loggers like himself who are mostly volunteers. His team includes Keith Young, Hank Bakken, Alan Greene, Tony Super, Ron Greene, Rod Clarke, Bert Simpson, Gordon Erickson and David Hooper.

Together, they keep the memory of the Alberni Valley’s logging past alive as one facet of the steam-driven mill.

DAVID HOOPER/SPECIAL TO THE NEWS

Members of the JJ Logging crew gather around the old spar tree at McLean Mill, above, while the train crew alight from a rail speeder.

◆ FOR MORE INFO on the Alberni Valley Heritage Network, go online to www. alberniheritage.com.

SENIORS SPECIALS JUNE 7-13 Regular Priced Items (except small appliances) and 20% OFF Complimentary cookies and 15%

coffee for seniors (MON-FRI)

OFF the First Monday of Each Month

Open 7 Days a Week 6504617

3036 3RD AVE.

◆ INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE CENTRE on Wednesday, June 10 from 1–4 p.m. everyone is welcome to drop by the IHS centre in the old arena on Ninth Avenue and Dunbar Street.

Check out current restoration projects and see the vintage trucks and equipment that has been restored by IHS volunteers.

Enter our draw for a $20 Gift Certificate

Kitchen & Gifts Follow us on

724-5851

250-

Seniors Receive a

dio

il Stu

Na air &

10% Discount from June 7 - 13, 2015

H

Full Family Services Including: • Cuts & Colours • Foils & Streaks • Perms & Styling

Men’s, Ladies, Children and Teens

• Extentions • Gel Nails • Mani’s & Pedi’s

• Pierce Ear & Nose • Retail & More • Walk-ins Welcome

4311 10th Ave | 250.723.HAIR (4247)

6982873

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

13

Try curling without the cold temperatures Thursday, June 11 “Try out Paddle” Outrigger Canoeing on Sproat Lake – open to all adults 8:50 am The Sproat Lake Canoe Club invites seniors to try out a paddle in an outrigger canoe.

Life jackets and paddles are supplied for everyone. Please phone Darrell at 250-723-0640 if you have any questions and to reserve your spot in the boat.

Floor Curling at Glenwood Centre - for ages 50+ 9:10 am - 12:00 pm The Sunshine Club floor curlers invite you to come out and try this fun sport.

The floor curling “rocks” only

weigh 2.5 pounds each and no sweeping is involved as in ice curling.

Experienced floor curlers will be in attendance to give instruction and show you how to play. Pre-registration is not necessary, just drop-in to Glenwood Centre.

Woodworking at the Old Arena–50+ 10 am – 12 pm Volunteers of the Sunshine Club Woodworking Shop invite you to drop in and check out their shop, located in the Industrial Heritage Society building.

Bring along your own wood and work on a project.

Drop-in fee is free today.

CIBC Seniors’ Appreciation Day – for ages 60+ 11:00 – 2:00 pm The CIBC Bank is having a Seniors’ Appreciation Day and will be offering complimentary coffee, tea and goodies.

Carpet Bowling at Echo Centre – for ages 50+ 1:00 - 3:00 pm Drop by Echo Centre to try out carpet bowling.

The cost is free and all equipment is supplied, so all you need to do is drop by and join in the fun.

Whist at Echo Centre, 1–3 pm The Sunshine Club Whist Group welcomes you to play with them.

Please arrive with a partner

starting at 12:30 pm so everyone is set and ready to start at 1 pm. There will be a drop in fee of 50 cents which will be awarded as prizes.

Old Time Fun and Games, Alberni Valley Museum 2:30 - 4:30 pm Travel back in time and enjoy a special afternoon with your grandchildren at the museum as you take part in some old-fashioned activities, games and a treasure hunt.

Dragon Boat Paddling 6:30–7:30 pm Come out to Sproat Lake Landing’s dock to experience dragon boat paddling. No equipment is necessary, PFDs and paddles provided.

If you need a ride, call Donna James at 250 723-6865.

SPRING CLEAN

Make Catalogue Orders IN STORE and enter to

win $100 draw.

Seniors, We Salute You. Thank You. email: hetheringtonind@shaw.ca

6985245

4715 Roger St. Port Alberni, BC.

Tel: 250-724-5112 • 1-800-563-6004

Draw date Aug 1, 2015

FREE

Drop-off Delivery in town for Seniors

June 7-13

Senior’s Week Special 15% Off Product in Store Front Available at both locations 3949 Maple Way 250.723.7270

4833 Southgate 250.723.4940

250.724.4451 3540 3rd Ave

Store hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 11am - 3pm

6984565

June 7-13

Guaranteed Best Prices!

6985252

excludes prescriptions and sale items

14

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

Log some kilometres on the Log Train Trail Friday, June 12

Centre - for ages 50

Seniors’ Week Trip Date: June 12, 2015 Departure time: 9 am Arrival home: 6 pm Registration: Ongoing in the Echo Centre lobby Payment date: upon registration Cost: $56 (includes transportation,entrance fees, lunch & gratuities) We are heading up-Island to Comox/Courtenay to visit the tourist centre, museum and wander through the Filberg gardens. Lunch will be at the popular, “Black Fin” Pub on the waterfront.

Coastal Community Credit Union Seniors’ Appreciation Day – for seniors 60+ All day during regular hours Seniors are invited to drop by any time during regular businesses hours on Friday and enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and cookies.

Scotiabank Seniors’ Appreciation Day 9:30 am – 2:30 pm Coffee and cake will be available in the lobby of the bank from 9:30 am – 2:30 pm.

Table Games at Echo

10:00 am - 12:00 pm The Sunshine Club Table Games group welcomes you to drop in to Echo Centre to enjoy some table games, including card games Rummy 500, Euchre or Phase 10 or a game of Scrabble. If you don’t know how to play any of these games, volunteers will be there to help teach you.

Table Tennis at Echo Centre – for ages 50+ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm The table tennis group offers three opportunities in the week to play – Tuesdays from 8:45 – 10:45 am, Wednesdays from 7:00 – 9:00 pm and Fridays 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.

All equipment is supplied and all you need to bring is yourself.

This is a free event and tickets are not required—just drop by the Cedar Centre Room at Echo Centre.

Pottery Open House at Echo Centre – for ages 50+ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Drop into the Craft room at Echo Centre (in the back of the building) to try your hand at pottery.

Sunshine Club members will

be working on their own clay creations. You are welcome to watch what they are doing, or members will help you create your own hand-built project or give you brief instruction on using the pottery wheel.

Tools and enough clay to get you started will be supplied.

The Sunshine Club pottery group meets regularly on Tuesdays and Fridays and new members are always welcome. Come out and give it a try.

Live Music at the Jade Restaurant 5:00 – 7:00 pm Plan for a wonderful evening of music and dining on Friday, June 12 at the Jade Restaurant. Customers will enjoy live music performed

by BJ Harper, Diane Dvorak and Coreen Hooper to enhance your dining experience.

Seniors 60+ will get a 10% discount on your meal (excluding alcohol).

Rainbow Gardens “Seniors’ Prom” – for ages 50+ 6:00 – 8:00 pm Rainbow Gardens residents and staff invite seniors to

get dressed up and enjoy a wonderful evening at the “Senior Prom”.

There will be a live band, dancing and refreshments.

Two lucky participants will even be crowned king and queen of the prom!

Tickets are free (20 tickets available) and can be picked up in the Sunshine Club office.

Saturday, June 13

Hike with the Sunshine Club Hikers – for ages 50+ 10:00 am We invite you to join us for exercise, fresh air and socializing on Saturday, June 13. We meet at Echo Centre at 10:00 am. We will drive to McLean Mill for a hike along the Log Train Trail, stopping at Mulcaster Swamp (lake) for lunch and then loop back to the vehicles. The trail is basically flat, but good hiking shoes are recommended.

Bring your lunch and a drink and join this friendly group.

If this is of interest to you and you would like to join us, please sign up with the Sunshine Club by phoning 250 720-2505.

MORE THAN JUST A PAINT STORE! Over 2000 Beautiful Colours to Choose From Local Painters Referred

UP TO

OFF

CUSTOM BLINDS

20% Off

SENIORS WEEK %

VEGAS GIVE AWAY!!!!!

3 days, 2 nights, return flight and accommodation FOR TWO! Purchase $1500* in custom blinds or $3500* in floor coverings and receive your Las Vegas get away.

15 OFF

ONLY 4 PACKAGES LEFT!

PAINT & PAINT SUPPLIES

6985470

Mon.-Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm • CLOSED SUNDAYS • www.albernicolour.net • #1- 4310 10th Ave. • 250-720-0030

EVERYTHING IN STORE! June 7th - 13th 2945 3rd Ave. • Ph: 250.724-4244

Find us on Facebook

(Gallons Only)

MORE THAN JUST A PAINT STORE!

Find us on Facebook

6985386

60% Seniors Save

Over 2000 Beautiful Colours to Choose From

UP TO

60

GIVE AWAY!!!!!

Mon.-Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00VEGAS pm • CLOSED SUNDAYS % 3 days, 2 nights, return flight and accommodation FOR TWO! OFF #1CUSTOM - 4310 10th Ave. • 250-720-0030 • www.albernicolour.net Purchase $1500* in custom blinds or BLINDS

Local Painters Referred

$3500* in floor coverings and receive your Las Vegas get away.

ONLY 4 PACKAGES LEFT! Mon.-Sat: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm • CLOSED SUNDAYS • www.albernicolour.net • #1- 4310 10th Ave. • 250-720-0030

Find us on Faceboo

Seniors Connections May 2015

www.albernivalleynews.com

15

Modify your home for safety

It has been shown that most seniors are happier if allowed to live out their years in their own homes.

However, there are many activities that become more difficult as we age, and our home can become a maze of potential hazards that can be dangerous to seniors.

There are a number of things that can be done ranging in cost and skill required for installation that

will make the home much safer for the senior. This can give them the best quality of life possible by allowing them to remain in their home, and it also ensures that they will be safe.

There are a few areas of the house that most seniors are likely to have trouble with and these are the areas that are usually the focus of home safety modifications.

These problem areas are the bathroom, kitchen, stairs, and exteriors (like entrances, exits, sidewalks, etc.).

Simple home safety modifications

• Remove all loose carpeting and rugs. This will cut down on the risk of falls. • Install non-skid flooring in the kitchen and bathroom. These are two of the riskiest areas when it comes to slipping and falling. Especially the bathroom, as water is involved.

Weekdays 10 - 5:30

• Replace clocks and phones with larger print versions that are easier for the senior to read. • Install non-skid adhesive linings in the tub to reduce the chance of a slip and fall in the shower. • Install handrails, grab bars and/or safety poles on stairs, entrances, exits, and areas where one would need assistance in standing. • Install shower and toilet safety bars that make it easier for the senior to get in and out of the shower and on and off the toilet. • Subscribe to an emergency response system that will alert the proper authorities in the event of an emergency. Provide those authorities with a means to access the home in case of an emergency such as a combination lock box on the exterior of the home. • Arrange furniture to ensure that there is enough space for the senior to easily get around in a wheelchair or with a walker without impediment. • Shower chairs, transfer

6985206

This article was provided

by The Comfort Zone Mobility Aids & Spas in Port Alberni, phone 250-724-4477.

Saturdays 10 - 5

S E N I O R S

W E E K

S P E C I A L

All Seniors get 15% off regularly priced merchandise

SENIORS June 72toTO 13,8 2015 JUNE 2013

15% off

• fabrics • quilts

regular priced stock

Certified Bra Fitters on Staff

benches and bath lifts are a great choice for seniors with limited mobility.

These items can allow for continued independence when a caregiver is involved. • Raised toilet seats also make it easier for someone with mobility issues to use the toilet comfortably on their own. • Rope off unsafe areas of the house such as the basement and reassure the senior that if they need something from these areas, someone will get it for them.

Stairlifts can be an option as well.

If mobility is a real struggle, consider setting up most of the seniors’ needs on one floor. • Install scald control features that will keep the senior from burning themselves. Reaction times are slowed as we get older and this offers protection.

,INDA "OWERS

Tel: (250) 723-0966 s &AX s WWW BOUTIQUEBELLESAMIES CA

5344 Argyle Street, Port Alberni, B.C. V9Y 1T8

• notions • classes

• patterns • books

www.kismetquilts.com • 5334 Argyle St., Pt. Alberni 250-723-6605 • Mon–Sat 10am–5pm

6985327

As our parents age, it can be difficult to watch the changes they go through that threaten their independence. While many of us are too busy to move in with our parents and care for them in their golden years, most of us also do not want to ship our loved ones off to a nursing home.

1-888-723-1800 24 hrs. 1-250-723-1800

Toll Free

4213 Princess Rd. Corner of Ian & Johnston

We Connect with Seniors Buying or Selling, Your Experience Will Be an Enjoyable One!

Alease Arcus 731-7733

&

Chris Arcus 731-6637

3916 Shaunessy

Eleanor Coffey 723-1800

$158,000

Craig Filipchuk 720-6220

Gerry Hickey 723-3853

2773 11th Ave

&

Pat Hickey 723-3853

$177,700

Jim Robertson 723-2394

2736 Anderson Ave

Lukh Saran 723-1800

$209,900

NEW PRICE CLOSE TO MALL AND SCHOOLS • 3 Bedroom, 2 bath • Large level lot Craig Filipchuk

$228,000

5734 Watson

NEW PRICE FAMILY LIVING

• 3 bedroom 2 bath split level home • Vaulted ceilings, new kitchen, bathrooms, flooring • Detached shop/garage + double carport • Fenced backyard

Pat & Gerry Hickey

GREAT FAMILY HOME • 4 bedroom 1.5 bath • Close to EJ Dunn/Maquinna School • Spacious yard fully fenced • Vacant/quick possession Lukh Saran

5075 John St

3 BD RANCHER WITH SHOP • New windows & fence • Redone kitchen • 20x28 Detached garage/shop Eleanor Coffey

$179,900

4852 Ian Ave.

$144,900

NEW PRICE RANCHER • 3bds 1 bth • Walking distance to all amenities • Big attached shop/ garage Chris & Alease Arcus

GREAT STARTER • Upper North Port • 4 bed, 1 bathroom • Fenced backyard Jim Robertson 6985237