Star Phoenix Seniors Week

B7

S A T U R D A Y, S E P T E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

SASKATCHEWAN SENIORS WEEK

S A S K AT O O N S TA R P H O E N I X

SASKATCHEWAN

SENIORS WEEK 2016

Spotlight on Seniors is the largest trade show of its kind in Saskatchewan – offering a mix of informative and interactive booths, plus entertainment and even a fashion show. Spotlight on Seniors takes place Oct. 4 at TCU Place. S U P P L I E D P H O TO S

SPOTLIGHT ON SENIORS SHINES ON OCTOBER 4 DARLENE POLACHIC

For the 17th consecutive year, the Saskatoon Council on Aging (SCOA) is organizing Spotlight on Seniors, a trade show focusing on older adults.

“Spotlight on Seniors is the largest trade show of its kind in Saskatchewan,” says Virginia Dakiniewich, community engagement coordinator for SCOA. “It corresponds with Seniors Week in the province and recognizes the contributions of older adults to the community.”

The event, which is sponsored

by The Medicine Shoppe and coordinated by SCOA and TCU Place, takes place at TCU Place on Tuesday, Oct. 4, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

TCU’s Grand Salon will be bustling with 70 to 80 booths representing a wide variety of services and products, plus leisure and hobby opportunities for older adults. Says Joan Lidington, chair of the Spotlight on Seniors committee, “It’s educational for everyone and showcases what’s available out there.”

As well as the booths, Spotlight on Seniors has food, social opportunities, and a full program of non-stop stage entertainment.

The entertainment includes a band, dancers, fiddlers, and a magic show, “—something for every taste and talent,” says Lidington.

“The majority of the performers are older adults. Some have participated in Zoomer Idol, SCOA’s seniors talent show that takes place in late October.”

On stage will be fiddlers John

LeClaire and Len Dumont, the Bridge City Cloggers, the Paddlewheelers band, and new this year, a magic show with Super Ron, a local entertainer. Also new are Kathie’s Kuties.

A perennial favourite at Spotlight on Seniors is the fashion show from Value Village coordinated by SCOA’s Jennifer Holmes and featuring older adult models.

“The fashion show is about practical dollar fashion sense,” Lidington says. “It’s so popular that the one year we didn’t include it in the show, people were up in arms.”

A new feature at Spotlight on Seniors is the Room for Art experience in the Blair Nelson Room where people can actually create art.

There will also be interactive opportunities like a space where estheticians from Marca College will do mini-manicures for a small fee. Student and retired nurses will also be on site to do blood pressures and offering instruction and teaching on several pertinent health issues. A large poster dis-

play will provide further information on topics of interest.

Food is an essential at any trade fair, and Spotlight on Seniors is no exception. Lunch is available for a reasonable charge; coffee and snacks are provided free.

The general admission of $8 gives full access to everything at the show.

Since 2016 marks the 25th anni-

versary of Saskatoon Council On Aging, a special cake will be cut to commemorate the milestone.

The first Spotlight on Seniors took place in 1999, the International Year of Older Persons. It was a much smaller show then, Virginia Dakiniewich says, and has burgeoned to its present size.

As many as 800 to 1000 are expected to attend the trade show which organizers deem a wonderful opportunity to socialize.

“It’s especially nice for those older adults who are somewhat isolated the rest of the year. Many older adults attend mainly to meet up with friends,” Dakiniewich says. “There will be a large seating area where people can sit together and have coffee and visit.

The emphasis here is on getting together and having a good time.”

Lidington says Spotlight on Seniors is all about promoting positive aging and living a healthy lifestyle, and encouraging inde-

pendence in older adulthood.

“We encourage older adults to be active and engaged in the community, and a number of the trade show booths will provide information about what activities and services are available so people can do that. The show is an opportunity to learn new things, enjoy quality entertainment, and socialize with friends and peers.”

Some bus transportation to TCU Place will be available. For specific information on that, call the SCOA office at 306-652-2255.

Spotlight on Seniors is open to everyone, not just older adults, and is a valuable source of information and resources for caregivers and family members of older adults.

The Medicine Shoppe is the presenting sponsor of Spotlight on Seniors, along with Platinum Sponsor Sage Senior Resources and Gold Sponsor All Seniors Care Preston Park.

Cost of ambulance may prevent seniors from dialling 911 M I K E S H I PL AC K

Universal health care means different things to different people.

The majority of Canadians know that, when they are sick or injured, they will be taken care of at a clinic or emergency room at no cost. For some, though, the biggest hurdle to receiving health care arises before they even reach the health care facility — with ambulance fees, which are often paid out of pocket, even by those on limited incomes.

That’s why the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism (SSM) is trying to change things — not only for

seniors, but for all Saskatchewan residents. “Ambulance fees need to be covered by our health care system,” says Holly Schick, who has been the executive director for SSM for the past seven years.

“Ideally for all people, but I think that for seniors and other vulnerable populations that are unable to pay, it’s more important for them.”

A non-profit organization, SSM represents various seniors’ organizations across the province that work together to contribute to a better quality of life for older adults. SSM currently represents 16 member organizations, such as

Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism is calling on the Saskatchewan government to eliminate all ambulance fees charged to senior patients and eliminate ambulance fees for transfer patients regardless of age.

G E T T Y IMAGES

the National Association of Federal Retirees, the Saskatchewan Union Retirees Federation and the Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan.

“We’ve had a chance to make government aware of the issue, but we haven’t had changes as of yet. I’ve got to say that, in terms of the government, they are willing to listen to our concerns, even though we don’t always see the results we might like,” said Schick.

SSM has passed two resolutions: one for the elimination of all ambulance fees for seniors, and the other for the elimination of ambulance fees to transfer patients — regardless of their age — from one facility to another. This includes the wait time of an ambulance during medical appointments and tests, or when the patient is being transported to and from special medical vehicles like the STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society) helicopter. “In our opinion, no one should be charged for transfer between health facilities. That seems like a cost that shouldn’t be there for anyone,” says Schick.

Ambulance services in Saskatchewan can be costly. Basic services range from $245 to $325, there is a per kilometer rate for rural residents, wait time fees are between $50 to $100 per hour, and there is

an additional special escort fee if a nurse, therapist or health professional is riding with you, However, if you are over the age of 65, ambulance fees are capped at $275 per ambulance trip.

Additional fees include Saskatchewan Air Ambulance at $385 per flight and STARS charges $385 per flight. Neither of these fees includes the cost of a ground ambulance that may deliver a patient to and/or from the special medical vehicle.

The government of Saskatchewan currently offers assistance programs for seniors, lowerincome families, and people who live in northern Saskatchewan to help cover the costs of ambulance fees. Also, SGI and Worker’s Compensation cover ambulance costs, but only if it’s related to a workplace accident.

Unless seniors have health care benefits as part of their retirement package or pay for third party medical insurance, they could be on the hook for hundreds of dollars in case of an emergency.

The reality is that some people avoid calling 911 if there is an emergency, because they simply can’t afford it.

“Many people are coming from jobs where there wasn’t a pension plan other than CPP, or there

wasn’t additional health insurance that follows them after they retire.

There are not a lot of alternatives out there for people, so if you’re on a fixed income you have to make decisions. You’ll have to get the money from family or make decisions to do away with something else,” explains Schick. “The fact is that for seniors in particular, they are on a fixed income and often can’t earn more due to health concerns. The pension is their income and that’s it. That could be a real concern for people.”

In Saskatchewan, the wellbeing of seniors falls under the Ministry of Health and is found specifically within the Community Care branch. As a unified voice that represents more than 100,000 seniors, SSM currently has quarterly meetings with the Community Care branch, and meets directly with the minister every six months.

Anyone can help make ambulance fees part of Saskatchewan’s universal health care system by making their views known to government by writing letters, for example.

To learn more about how SSM is working to provide a better life for all seniors in Saskatchewan, and how you can provide support for this and many other issues, visit www.skseniorsmechanism.ca.

THIS SECTION WAS CREATED BY CONTENT WORKS, POSTMEDIA’S COMMERCIAL CONTENT STUDIO.

B8

S A T U R D A Y, S E P T E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

SASKATCHEWAN

SENIORS WEEK 2016

SASKATCHEWAN SENIORS WEEK

S A S K AT O O N S TA R P H O E N I X

CONNECTING THREADS, CONNECTING HEARTS

W E N DY L I V I N G S T O N E

A cozy, hand-made quilt can provide warmth for chilly toes on a winter night, but the actions of a Regina quilting group can also warm the heart. Harkening back to 19th century quilting bees, when community members came together to make gifts and charity items, Connecting Threads brings quilters together in Regina to create items for community organizations.

Once a week, 20 to 30 quilters, many of whom are members of the Prairie Piecemakers Quilters’ Guild, meet at the Neil Balkwill Centre and combine their creative efforts, enjoying their hobby while striving to help those who are in need feel comforted and cared for.

“We are a productive group,” says Marlene Smith-Collins. “We donated 204 quilts to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and 214 went to the pediatric and adolescent inpatient and outpatient care at the General Hospital and Wascana Rehab Centre. These are given to kids who are in a chronic medical condition, terminally ill or have experienced some type of trauma. They are comfort quilts.” The group also donated 10 quilts to Sofia House (a secondstage women’s shelter) and 15 to the women and children at Kate’s Place (a residence for women completing court-mandated drug treatment). Three other women’s shelters received 300 pillowcases, and 152 placemats were donated to the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Meals on Wheels program, which serves households as far away as

Marlene Smith-Collins is a member of the Prairie Piecemakers Quilter’s Guild. The group pools their efforts and resources while enjoying a hobby they love to gift many quilts to various community organizations such as the NICU and pediatric ward at Regina General Hospital. WE N DY L I VI NG S TON E / LE AD E R- POS T

Moosomin.

This high productivity does not result in a reduction in quality however. “When we are donating quilts to charity, we want them to be attractive — we want to be proud of what we donate, and we want the people receiving them to be comforted — they are a comfort quilt and they should be comforted by them, not looking at them and thinking ‘who made this,’ type of thing. We take a lot of pride in the charity quilts that we make,” says Smith-Collins.

All the tools and materials needed for the projects are made available at the Balkwill for Connecting Threads participants. “We work with donated fabric — donated

by members of the guild who are downsizing, members of the public because they know we make charity quilts, and estates. Sometimes, we have somebody who is cleaning out their mother’s house, and they just drop it off at Neil Balkwill and we don’t know who donates it,” says Smith-Collins. Several sewing machines, rotary cutters and mats are also available for use.

The group also receives monetary support from various sources. This year, Farm Credit Canada donated $1,500, which will be used to purchase the quilt batting required for projects. The Prairie Piecemakers Quilters’ Guild also contributes financially. It holds a quilt show every two years and sells raffle tick-

ets for a hand-made quilt to raise funds for Connecting Threads’ efforts. In 2016, $2,400 — which will also be used for batting and flannelette backing — was raised through this endeavour. An additional $1,000 was donated in July through Sask Energy’s Share the Warmth program.

Even though the group is very production-oriented, Connecting Threads sewers manage to find time to socialize and share quilting tips.

“There is a tremendous exchange of ideas,” says Smith-Collins. “Somebody always has a different way of doing things, or a different pattern.

You will always get advice — whether you want it or not!”

Many hobbyists are members

of both the Prairie Piecemakers Quilters’ Guild and Connecting Threads, but membership in neither organization is dependent on belonging to the other. Both groups meet from September until June.

Connecting Threads meets from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on and come-and-go basis at the Neil Balkwill Centre every Thursday, and the Prairie Piecemakers Quilters’ Guild meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Whitmore Park United Church.

The guild, which comprises about 140 members, is also a way for quilters to exchange ideas and learn more about the art and craft of quilting. At each meeting, 80 to 90 members meet to discuss topics of interest, such as fibre art or modern quilt design. Presentations cover various concerns that quilters may have, including correct body mechanics for sewing (presented by a physiotherapist) and sewing machine maintenance (presented by the owner of a quilt shop). For those who like to receive their advice in printed form, the guild meetings’ venue houses an extensive library of quilting books.

Like any labour of love, time passes quickly when one begins the process of making a quilt. “I don’t think even any of us that sew or quilt even know how much time we put into something. When I’m asked, ‘how long did it take you to make something,’ I have no idea,” says Smith-Collins.

What a great way to wile away those long winter days.

Dancing through the stages of life

Connie Moker Wernikowski began dancing at age five. Now 62, she is still a very busy professional contemporary dance artist. Moker Wernikowski, her daughter and two granddaughters will present a special performance called Loops and Crinkles at the ninth annual Healthy Dancer Canada Conference in Saskatoon, Sept. 25. G E T TY I M AG E S TOBIE HAINSTOCK

Since she was five years old, Connie Moker Wernikowski has loved dancing. “I took ballet lessons in Prince Albert and when my teacher left, my parents drove me to Saskatoon.”

Eventually she went on to achieve a BA in Dance at York University and a master’s in education at the University of Regina. From

1994 to 2009, she served as the artistic director of Youth Ballet and Contemporary Dance of Saskatchewan.

Moker Wernikowski is a highly talented and creative professional contemporary dance artist who still maintains a healthy balance of physical activity through dance and yoga at the age of 62.

“My body may be limited, but my body still moves and I’m able to

Learning never stops K I R A O L F E RT

An engaged and learning brain is a young brain. This is something that Saskatoon Seniors Continued Learning Inc. recognizes as they work to provide a wide variety of innovative and thoughtprovoking classes for seniors and those over 55 who are looking to keep learning and critical thinking a part of their every day lives.

SSCL president Audrey Hall explains that the program is collaboration with the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Saskatchewan as a part of their community service mandate, and has been in place in some form or another since 1982.

For a $5 annual membership fee, members have access to two-hour classes once a week for eight weeks. The registration fee for the classes is $55 per course. Students are not expected to write papers or exams, although Hall says that most professors will suggest readings for the seniors to enrich their learning experience. Classes this term will be offered in the areas of history, chemistry, economics, religious studies, literature and politics.

As well, members participate in the annual President’s Lecture Series, which is a series of eight

lectures sessions all focusing on one theme. This year’s theme is “A World Without Books: Education in a Digital World.” The sessions are presented by different professors, including the president of the U of S. There are numerous benefits for members, who range in age from 55 to over 80, says Hall. “On a practical level, living in a winter city as we do, these classes give our members a reason to get out of the house. The program also provides a social environment filled with thought-provoking discussions with our peers.”

These discussions, she adds, are a “major feature of every class, and help to broaden our perspectives of the world. We take what we have learned from class and start to notice it in the media and in the outside world. We make the connections from what we have learned to our everyday lives.

“And,” she continues, “our presence on campus and in the hallways of the Arts building while we are waiting for our classes to start is an example of life-long learning for the younger students.”

Most important, Hall says, “is the stimulation our brains get from learning. Over time, I think our focus narrows as we spend a life time working and raising our

express myself in an artistic way,” she says.

As owner of Big Fish Yoga, Moker Wernikowski offers instruction to people of many age groups. Classes are available for beginners and up. There are also gentle levels for those of limited flexibility. Having always practiced yoga, she finds that it has made a difference in her body movement, making her more flexible. It was in 2010 that she decided to become a teacher and pass on to others what she had learned.

Being a dancer, choreographer and yoga instructor, Moker Wernikowski understands the value of being active throughout all stages of life. According to NIH Senior Health, regular physical activity and exercise are important to the physical and mental health of almost everyone, including older adults. Staying physically active and exercising regularly can produce long-term health benefits and even improve health for some older people who have diseases and disabilities.

She encourages people of all ages to do activities that they enjoy and

find something that is sensitive to their body’s limitations, but adds that whatever you do, don’t let your age stop you. Moker Wernikowski says that maintaining an active lifestyle at any stage of life is also beneficial on a deeper level. “Dancing and yoga connect me to myself.

They help centre me and find my inner joy. I even dance through sad times and times of grief.”

To celebrate the varied stages of life and motivate people of all ages to live an active lifestyle, Moker Wernikowski has choreographed a contemporary dance, titled Loops and Crinkles. This thoughtful and graceful performance is multigenerational, and features Moker Wernikowski, her daughter Katrina Currie along with granddaughters Evelyn Currie and Elle Wernikowski. The dance intimately praises the inherent human spirit as it moves through all of the stages of life.

Moker Wernikowski says that her daughter is also a trained dancer and that her granddaughters exude a lot of energy and spontaneity. Her focus in choreographing Loops and Crinkles was to chan-

nel that energy and include that spontaneity while demonstrating the experience and skill of herself and Currie — it is a demonstration of the beauty of youth and experience melding into one. “We hope to throw a few ‘Loops and Crinkles’ into the preconceived notions that some may have about the age and timeline for dance, and who can dance together.”

Moker Wernikowski and her family are thrilled about performing this stunningly artistic dance at the ninth annual Healthy Dancer Canada Conference in Saskatoon, Sept. 25. The theme for the conference this year is Dancing through Life. The Loops and Crinkles dance will be part of the opening at 9 a.m. and will encompass the conference’s theme.

As we move through life, our bodies transition from one stage to another; this does not, however, mean that we should sit on the sidelines after a certain age.

Not only is keeping active through life beneficial for us on a physical level, Moker Wernikowski says that it is very important to help us maintain quality of life.

families. These classes give us the opportunity to learn about topics outside of our line of work and life experiences.”

Hall adds that every year, “researchers studying various aspects of aging at the university ask SCCL members to consider participating in their research studies.”

Professors love the program as well. “We often get professors approaching us, asking if they can teach one of our classes. For some, it is because they have a

topic they are passionate about and would like to teach. These are often very cutting edge classes.”

And, Hall adds, “the fact is, they love teaching us. We are very engaged students who are there because we want to be there.

We aren’t there staring at our phones, we are there because we

want to learn about the topic. We are there because we love learning. It is a win-win situation.”

If you are interested in the SCCL or would like to register for the Winter or Spring sessions, you can click on https://ccde.usask.ca/sscl or call 306-343-6773.

An engaged and learning brain is a young brain.

Saskatoon Seniors Continued Learning Inc. provides a wide variety of innovative and thought-provoking classes for seniors over 55. It’s a great way to keep learning at every stage of life. G E T TY I M AG E

B9

S A T U R D A Y, S E P T E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

SASKATCHEWAN SENIORS WEEK

S A S K AT O O N S TA R P H O E N I X

SASKATCHEWAN

SENIORS WEEK 2016

Gail Greenberg, chair the Regina Grandmothers for Grandmothers Sponsorship Committee, (left, wearing red shirt) takes part a South African march.

SU P PLIED PHO T O

G4G EMPOWERS AFRICAN GRANDMOTHERS A N D R EW L I V I N G S T O N E

When Stephen Lewis, the United Nations’ special envoy for HIV/ AIDS in Africa, spoke out in 2005 about the challenges faced by subSaharan grandmothers who were forced to fend for a generation of AIDS-orphaned children, grandmothers across Canada were inspired to organize in support of their African peers. Women like Orla Lockerbie and Sharon Maher of Saskatoon began to raise funds for the Stephen Lewis Foundation (SLF) and spread awareness of the issue, and thus began the Grandmothers 4 Grandmothers movement, which now boasts groups in Regina, Saskatoon, and throughout the country.

Claire Brown, current co-chair of the Saskatoon G4G group, said that two or three other groups across the country were similarly galvanized by Lewis’ words, and, “When we had money, we went to the Stephen Lewis Foundation, and then they realized pairing up African grandmothers and Canadian grandmothers was a really good match.” Although the SLF would use the name Grandmothers “to” Grandmothers, the concept was the same. “They liked our name, but they didn’t want to

just copy it.”

It was the SLF’s gathering of 100 African grandmothers in 2006 on the eve of the International AIDS Conference in Toronto that prompted grandmothers in Regina to take action, says Gail Greenberg, who sits on the G4G Regina executive as chair of its Sponsorship Committee.

By that time, the SLF was poised to connect grandmothers who expressed an interest in the cause, and the Regina group quickly took form. “For many of us at the time, we were used to volunteerism of one sort or another — many of us in our own communities — and many of us were touched by what we saw, recognizing that we live in the ‘land of plenty,’” Greenberg says. “It started with a very small group of us and a commitment to doing some volunteer work that impacted on the international community.”

Prospective members need not have grandchildren or even be female, but Brown says that the majority of the organization’s membership is, “Women of a certain age.”

Since the movement began, the Regina group has raised just under $600,000, while the Saskatoon group has taken advantage

of its head start to raise $627,000.

In that time, both organizations have adopted increasingly effective and creative fundraising methods.

The Regina group held its Art from the Attic event on Sept. 17 at the Cathedral Neighbourhood Centre. “It’s a huge job,” says Greenberg. For weeks, the organization had volunteers constantly travelling throughout the city to retrieve and price the donated art in order to orchestrate a successful event. “Last year, we got donations of 1,800 pieces of art, which have to be cleaned, and priced, and prepped, and then set out for a one-day sale, so it requires a tremendous amount of energy.”

Other annual events in Regina include the Scrabble for Africa and Jabula dinner fundraisers, which will take place on Oct. 31 and Apr. 30 respectively.

Meanwhile, the Saskatoon group is preparing for its Fabric Sale fundraiser on Oct. 17 at St. Martin’s United Church. “It’s a big event for us,” says Brown.

“They’ve donated fabric, and we sell it, and the money we raise goes to the Stephen Lewis Foundation … A lot of the people who buy it are buying it to use in some sort of charitable organization as

well, so you’re giving twice.”

Following that, Saskatoon’s fundraising dinner will be on Mar. 3, its Art from the Attic will be on May 27, and members will be participating in the Stride to Turn the Tide walks in June.

Brown says that these efforts are important because, rather than making African grandmothers dependent on donations, the money raised will help them to

empower themselves. “The Stephen Lewis Foundation doesn’t give somebody a fish — they teach them how to fish … These ideas aren’t told to the African people.

They come up with the ideas because they know what’s going to work in those communities.”

This summer, Greenberg had the opportunity to confirm that for herself when the SLF arranged for her and several other Canadian members to visit Zambia, to see examples of how their fundraising dollars are spent, and South Africa, to attend a gathering of grandmothers from across that country. “The one thing that resonates with me is that they’re grassroots organizations,” she says. “It makes it really real, and you come back thinking, ‘We’re going to keep doing this, because our job is to raise funds, and their job is to care for their kids and do everything else that they need to do in order to stay on top of the pandemic.’”

Each June Grandmothers for Grandmothers Saskatoon hold their annual Stride to Turn the Tide to raise funds and awareness around the AIDS pandemic in Africa. SUP P LIED P HOT O

“SAGE” has moved in Market Mall, we are now by the inside parkade entrance for your convenience!”

Always celebrating Seniors!

“SAGE” “Your one stop shop for Home Health and Mobility aids” Grandmothers for Grandmothers Saskatoon are gearing up for their Fabric Sale on Oct. 17 at St. Martin’s United Church. The proceeds will go towards the Stephen Lewis Foundation to help African grandmothers care for AIDS-orphaned children. SUPPL IE D P H O TO

SAGE SENIORS’ RESOURCES MARKET MALL 2325 PRESTON AVE SOUTH PH: 306-955-7243

Live Awesome. Age Awesome.

FREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES

INSTALLATION

WALK-IN TUBS

Bathing Solutions for Independent Living View Your Options at Centennial 360 710-51st Street E, Saskatoon 306.700.3965 centennial360.com

B10

S A T U R D A Y, S E P T E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 1 6

SASKATCHEWAN

SENIORS WEEK 2016 JENNIFER JACOBY-SMITH

This year it’s billed as “Saskatoon’s own Ed Sullivan Variety Show”, but for those who’ve attended or participated, Zoomer Idol is known just as a whole of fun. This year’s event takes place on Thursday, Oct. 27 at TCU Place.

Presented by the Saskatoon Council on Aging, the annual event provides a chance for adults aged 55 or older to compete in a American Idol style competition.

Organizer Virginia Dakiniewich, community engagement coordinator for SCOA, says Zoomer Idol 2016 showcases eight “vibrant acts”. Auditions occurred earlier this year and the finalists have been narrowed down to these acts: Brenda Bennett (baton twirling), Mary Ellen Buckwold (vocalist), Maggie Burke (vocalist), Draw the Stars (Wendy Crawford and Trish Cameron, vocalists), Gaye Lynn Kern (vocalist), Michele Wilchuck and Jackie Johnsrude (vocalist), Spectacle (Lowell McLaren, Pat Mitchelle, Ed Bajak, Gary Smith vocal group), Two Tall Dudes (Ken Jackson, Rob Zuk, Evert Van Olst, vocal group).

“Zoomer Idol is all about fun, the thrill of competition, the oppor-

SASKATCHEWAN SENIORS WEEK

S A S K AT O O N S TA R P H O E N I X

ZOOMER IDOL CONTINUES TO ENTERTAIN tunity for audience participation and voting for your favourite idol,” says Dakiniewich. The event is also a gala evening with a dinner and program. The show is an excellent opportunity to meet and mingle with friends old and new and also get acquainted with the Saskatoon Council on Aging.”

Jean Burke and Doreen Walker are familiar with the nerves these contestants will face on Oct. 27.

The duo have performed music of various genres for audiences for decades. Walker plays keyboard and Burke plays bass guitar.

Though neither describe themselves as competitive, the pair teamed up for Zoomer Idol last year and won.

They played a wide range of music starting with the Saskatchewan Song. They threw in some Maple Sugar with Walker performing the fiddle on the keyboard. Burke says it was her yodeling that “brought the house down”.

Walker and Burke will be performing at this year’s event as well.

Burke gives credit to SCOA for all the work they do to put on such a tremendous event. She’s also grateful such an even exists that allows zoomers a chance to showcase some of their talents – even those talents that may have taken a back seat while zoomers raised a family or pursued a career.

“It’s nice to get up there and be rewarded for some of your itty bitty talents,” she says.

Proceeds from the event benefit SCOA and their various programs to encourage older adults to live full active lives. Dakiniewich, says, ”Zoomer Idol promotes a positive image of aging – active engaged older adults having fun and participating in the community.”

These positive images are important in a society where youth aging is viewed negatively – something to be endured.

“We are all growing older in one

way or another. We need to change the dialogue about getting older; aging is not a negative experience but can open up a whole new realm of opportunities,” says Dakiniewich.

Positive aging can mean different things to different people but overall means maintaining a positive attitude about yourself, stay-

Zoomer Idol is all about fun, the thrill of competition, the opportunity for audience participation and voting for your favourite idol.”

ing active, healthy and engaged in life as you age. Promoting positive aging is what SCOA is all about.

Tickets for Zoomer Idol can be purchased online at www.scoa.ca or through Eventbrite. You can also visit the SCOA office at 2020 College Drive, Saskatoon Field House. For more information call 306-652-2255.

• Professional 24 Hour Private Care for all our Residents • Trained Caregivers on Staff 24 Hours a Day • Nursing Support • Family Physician on Call • Prescription Drug Delivery Arranged • Elevator Service (Maguire Residences)

➤ Care Home Specialists ➤ Bubble Packs or Plastic Strip Packaging ➤ Real Time Electronic Medication Administration ➤ ➤ ➤ ➤

Records Braces and Supports Compression Stockings & Compression Pumps Large selection of Home Care and Mobility Aids Wheelchair, walker, and nebulizer rentals

Refill your prescriptions on-line at www.willowgrovepharmacy.ca and like us on facebook

• 2 Prime East Side Residential Locations • Modern Facilities Built to Specifications for Seniors • Fire & Sprinkler System

306-665-1000

• Large Bedroom Windows for Ample Natural Light • Park-Like Yard & Outdoor Patios • Nutritious Meals • Social Director on Staff & Social Activities (including Wii Exercises)

• Live Music Entertainment

by Local Artist

KONIHOWSKI RESIDENCES

MAGUIRE RESIDENCES

(Silverspring Area)

(Willowgrove Area)

1023 Konihowski Rd. 1318 Konihowski Rd. 1322

Zoomer Idol, organized by the Saskatoon Council on Aging, continues to offer those over 55 years of age a chance to show off their talents. SCOA’s June Gawdun (left) stands with last year’s winners Jean Burke (middle) and Doreen Walker (right). SUPPL I E D P H O TO S

• Professionally Decorated, Designed & Maintained

318 Maguire Court

Konihowski Rd.

322 Maguire Court

306.220.9324

306.260.0801

FACSIMILE 306.249.2901

FACSIMILE 306.382.4037

1-527 Nelson Rd fax 306-665-1011 Located Next to Willowgrove Medical Group

Email: info@qualitycarehomes.ca www.qualitycarehomes.ca

Diamond House

P ers on al C a re Hom e • Wa rm a n, S K nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn Diamond House, located in a quiet residential area, is a home that has 6 unique houses under one one roof. A new concept for meeting residents specific care needs and lifestyle preferences, Diamond House offers all levels of care and the choice of six different styles of suites. “Aging in the Right Place” philosophy with 24/7 care so residents never have to move again.

“A gi ng i n the R ig ht P l a ce ” Located at 700 Ballesteros Cres in Warman, the home is now open for viewing. For more information, call Tracey at 306-955-1300, email hauph@sasktel.net. or check our website at www.goldenhealthcare.ca