Technologically, this is a first for the Chief's seniors' column: the copy is being sent in to the Squamish offices from Portland, Oregon where Glenn and I are babysitting our new little granddaughter.Computer geeks are thinking "So?", but for a multi-tasking/retraining Nanna it is a pretty big deal!
I'm so sorry that no one left a message for my attention that an All Candidate's Meeting, as well as a short meeting for seniors at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre, was planned for this past Wednesday (Jan 18). I mention it now as it brings to light two important items. Announcements can get made only if the columnist is aware of the events and, pertinent to this particular issue, is the fact that it is perceived by many that seniors' issues were not being sufficiently addressed, that, at least up until a week prior to the meeting, the panelists of the All Candidates Meeting did not include a seniors' representative.
There used to be such a thing known as Grey Power; seniors credibly voicing the needs of seniors. Many are still lobbying but maybe what needs lobbying too nowadays is the need for seniors to be taken seriously. It is not frivolous for the older generation of society to want to be ensured of affordable housing and healthcare. They have, for the most part, paid their dues. Assurances and indeed rewards should now be forthcoming.
According to statistics, seniors will soon outnumber young people two to one. All levels of government need to be made aware that the health and well being of those that came before the present mid-generation should be a vital platform issue in all political campaigns.
The Genealogy Group will meet at 10:30 at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre on Monday Jan 23). All interested in tracing their roots are invited. Contact Mima 604-898-3280.
The over the Hill Hikers will meet at 10 a.m. on Tuesday (Jan 24) at the fisherman's entrance to the dyke, south of the Railway Museum, for a Central Channel and Swan Trail walk. Contact Lesley at 604-898-1628 or Ray at 604-898-4316.
The Line Dancers have been off to a slow start with many still away and meetings taking place but 1 p.m. on Tuesday (Jan 25) at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre should determine whether or not to continue for the Spring portion of the year. The music will be swing and the atmosphere jovial. Contact Barbara at 604-898-5029.
The Caregivers' Support Group will meet at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday (Jan 25) at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre. Contact Donna or Patricia at 604-892-2293 if you are caring for a loved one and would benefit by being included in this most helpful group.
The Tantalus Walking Club will meet at 10 a.m. on Thursday (Jan 26) at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre for a Rose Park and Blind Channel walk. Contact Joyce at 604-898-5594. The email address for accessing the full schedule of walks did not transfer last week so phone Roy Shephard at 604-898-5527 for the email address.
The ever popular Soup and Sandwich will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday (Jan 26) at the Tantalus Seniors' Centre. For $5 you get served soup, sandwiches, dessert and beverages in lively company and someone else does the dishes. It is obviously the place to be for lunch this Thursday. Contact Ray at 604-898-4316.
Elaine can be contacted at 604-898-5463 for any of the previously listed bus trips mentioned in past columns sponsored by Branch 70 of the Canadian Legion. Be aware that for your convenience there are two pick up spots: one downtown and one in the Highlands. Some venues are necessarily dedicated to an event or show but most are in proximity to other visiting opportunities and provide a stress free ride to and from the lower mainland.
