Saskatchewan Imposes Tax on Travel Insurance

OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | SUMMER 2017 | ISSUE 103

In This Issue Saskatchewan Imposes Tax on Travel Insurance

TRAVEL Surprising Gibraltar FINANCE Where to stash your cash RV LIFESTYLE South Okanagan HEALTH Insomnia Protect your home and auto with an insurance plan designed for your lifestyle.

Your world is unique… we insure it.

Call us for a quote today 1-800-267-8000 Group Services Insurance Brokers Limited Editor’s Message

SUMMER 2017 | ISSUE 103

Editor J. Ross Quigley CSA Editor Karen Huestis President Chris Bradbury Art Director Peter Prusa Director of Sales Neville B. Levin Director of Operations Paula McGovern s a child, I was enthralled with monkeys and, when I found Marketing & Events Fran Castricone Specialist out that there was an island which was overrun with monkeys, I decided that I had to make plans to visit one day. I have flown over Gibraltar a few times, but have not made CSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ait there yet. Pat & I cruised by on a cruise ship a few years ago and I President Karen Huestis was determined to finally see it. It turned out to be 3:00 a.m. ‒ in the First Vice-President Ron Steeves middle of the night ‒ and I had fallen asleep. Our story “Surprising

Second Vice-President John Foster Gibraltar” makes me even more determined to get there. Treasurer Garry McDonald Secretary Rod Seiling I also have dozens of friends in the Okanagan Valley and I have never Past President Bob Slack been there either. Rex Vogel’s write-up on the Valley, from the RV per- Director James Leroux spective, just reinforces my desire to visit. Neither of these destinations Director Robert Herman Director Ted Popel will affect our U.S. time limits and we will not need those pesky U.S. Director Wendy Caban dollars. So much to see – so much to do. Executive Director Michael MacKenzie Legal Counsel Wallace Weylie Just to mention a few thoughts on the rest of our magazine…I am a bridge player and I play a few hands on the computer every day to stay sharp. It is sad to see the younger generation drifting towards CONTRIBUTING EDITORS the incessant use of iPhones and iPads and their total immersion in Facebook and similar social media applications. They are missing a great Judith Adam Barb & Ron Kroll Gabrielle Bauer Dr. Robert MacMillan opportunity to meet new “real” friends and to challenge their brains. Donna Carter David McPherson Michael Coren Andrew Moore-Crispin I totally agree with our finance article’s advice that bonds are, poten- Jennifer Cox Robert Wiersema tially, a very poor investment over the next few years. Interest rates are Shari Darling Rex Vogel obviously rising and bonds will lose part of their capital value in this James Dolan environment. Stay away from them; the total diversification strategy can harm your financial health. Illustrator Merv Magus And now for your home remedy idea of the month. Our Health Pulse has a note on leg cramps in this issue and I would like to add that drinking some tonic water (with or without the good stuff) before bed has helped many people. Apparently, the quinine in tonic water acts as a muscle relaxant. Quinine is famous as a treatment for malaria and We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. is made from the bitter bark of remijia or cinchona plants. Try it and, perhaps, you can throw those drugs away.

As a last note, I sleep like a baby every night. Well, except when I have a deadline for the magazine. Enjoy. CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright SUMMER 2017 by Medipac International Communications Inc., 180 Lesmill Road, Toronto, Ontario M3B 2T5. (416)441-7000. Sincerely, Subscription Price: $9.95 Canada; $20.00 U.S. and foreign. Single copy: $3.95. Prices include tax. Published by Medipac International Communications Inc. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and are not necessarily those of the CSA, Medipac International Communications Inc. or its affiliates, their Directors, Officers, or other employees or agents. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No: 40063603. J. Ross Quigley ISSN No: 1195-2393 Editor

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 3 Table of Contents

OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE SUMMER 2017 | ISSUE 103 CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION

Features

Travel 16 Surprising Gibraltar RV Lifestyle There is no place on earth like Gibraltar. 22 The South Okanagan by Barb and Ron Kroll A beautiful desert in the centre of British Columbia. by Rex Vogel

Finance 26 Where to “stash” your cash Understanding your options when it comes to investing your cash allocation. by James Dolan

4 | www.snowbirds.org Table of Contents

Health 32 Insomnia: Causes and Cures Improve the quality of your sleep. by Dr. Robert MacMillan

Leisure 38 The Rise and Fall of Bridge Once the most popular card game on the Health planet, today it’s fraught with a damaging image and debated relevance. Feature by Donna Carter 36 Zika Virus Should you be worried about this deadly disease? by Gabrielle Bauer

Departments

3 Editor’s Message 42 Golf by David McPherson

6 Snowbird Alert 44 Book Review by Robert Wiersema

8 Bird Talk 45 Gardening by Judith Adam

10 President’s Message 46 Food & Drink by Shari Darling

11 Government Relations Report 48 CSA Online by Andrew Moore-Crispin

12 Insurance by Ross Quigley 50 CSA Application

14 Opinion by Michael Coren 51 Benefits

35 Health Pulse 52 Fun & Games

40 Fitness by Jennifer Cox 53 Grins & Giggles

41 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 54 Fast Facts

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 5 Snowbird Alert Saskatchewan Imposes INSURANCE TAX

The province of Saskatchewan is implementing a tax on all insur- Don’t Be a Victim to These ance premiums, including Travel Medical Insurance, effective Six Common Scams July 1, 2017. The P.S.T. rate of 6% applies to all policies with a coverage term starting on or after August 1, 2017. If Internet scams are not on your radar, they should be. It is not only businesses that can fall prey to these scams. Plenty of Canadians Please write to Premier Brad Wall and the members of the have had their personal information stolen through similar schemes. Saskatchewan legislature expressing your outrage with this action. Here’s what to look for in six common scams: For assistance with constructing your letter, we offer the following resource to assist you, as well as a link to obtain contact 1. CEO spoofing. Victims receive an e-mail claiming to be from the information for the premier and MLAs. “CEO” asking them to make an urgent payment outside of normal www.snowbirds.org/writing-guidelines procedures. E-mails are written in a different style than usual and there is an uncommon payment request. The money is inevitably stolen.

2. E-mail scam. Phishing scams appear to be legitimate e-mails, but Lawn Mower Safety are fraudulent messages that may lead to downloading viruses or •• Dress appropriately: long pants, may be attempts to collect and steal personal information. Beware long-sleeved shirts, eye and of unsolicited e-mails that require clicking through. Equip all hard ear protection, heavy gloves drives and network systems with anti-phishing software. and sturdy, closed-toed shoes with slip-resistant 3. Invoice scam. Fraudsters research a company so that they know rubber soles. Wear sun pro- which suppliers are used and when regular payments are due. They tection, a wide-brimmed hat and then pose as a supplier to create phony invoices. Watch for small drink plenty of water. discrepancies in invoices, such as a different address. Implement a standard accounts payable process so that all invoices are validated. •• Never disengage the fail-safe mechanism (dead-man switch) 4. Text message. Text scams called “smishing” look like they are found on power mowers. It trig- from a bank or other trusted organization and alert the victim to an gers the important safety feature account fraud or personal issue. Most smishing messages play on fear. of stopping the blades quickly as Any correspondence that requires personal details is usually a scam. soon as the handle of a walk-behind mower is released, or the operator 5. Internet scams. A fake pop-up sends a “scam alert” message. of a ride-on mower falls off of the seat. Clicking on it links to a fake website, or allows malware to be down- loaded. Beware of any unsolicited message that requires you to link •• Turn the mower off before attempting to examine to somewhere else. the blades, dislodge debris or adjust wheel height. 6. Phone scam. Fraud over the phone, called “vishing,” is still popular. •• Avoid mowing the lawn when it is wet and slippery. It happens when a fraudster calls, claiming to be from the bank or some other trusted organization. It is a scam if personal or financial •• Do not allow children under the age of 16 to use details such as PIN numbers or banking passwords are requested. ride-on mowers and children under the age of 12 to use walk-behind mowers. Protect your workplace by encouraging employees to be on the lookout for scams. Ongoing security training should teach them •• When mowing a ditch, mow down a slope, not to question every request for payment or information change, and across. Better yet, ditch the mower and use a to never disclose sensitive personal information via phone, text or trimmer. e-mail.

•• Never allow passengers on ride-on mowers. All organizations should implement a culture of security from the top down. Partner with reliable third parties for security-related •• Always look behind you before putting a ride-on services, such as Shred-it, to outsource document destruction and mower in reverse. eliminate security risks. www.newscanada.com

6 | www.snowbirds.org Snowbird Events

We have arranged a spectacular line-up of entertainment for this year’s Snowbird Lifestyle Presentation tour! Appearing at all events: Country music superstar, Michelle Wright Scottish Canadian Tenor, John McDermott FREE CONCERT Funny fisherman,Jimmy Flynn

•SEP• RICHMOND HILL Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts ONTARIO 10268 Yonge St. 13 Box Office: (905) 787-8811 Wed www.rhcentre.ca

•SEP• ST. CATHARINES FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, Partridge Hall ONTARIO 250 St. Paul Street 15 Box Office: (905) 688-0722 or 1-855-515-0722 Michelle Wright Fri firstontariopac.ca

•SEP• PARRY SOUND Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts ONTARIO Two Bay St. 18 Box Office: (705) 746-4466 or 1-877-746-4466 Mon www.stockeycentre.com

•SEP• NEPEAN Centrepointe Theatre ONTARIO 101 Centrepointe Dr. 20 Box Office: (613) 580-2700 or 1-866-752-5231 Wed www.centrepointetheatre.com John McDermott

•SEP• SUMMERSIDE Harbourfront Theatre PEI 124 Harbour Drive 25 Box Office: (902) 888-2500 or 1-800-708-6505 Mon harbourfronttheatre.com

•SEP• MONCTON Capitol Theatre NEW BRUNSWICK 811 Main St. 26 Box Office: (506) 856-4379 Tues capitol.nb.ca Jimmy Flynn

•SEP• HALIFAX Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Dalhousie Arts Centre NOVA SCOTIA 6101 University Avenue PICK UP YOUR TICKET TODAY! 28 Box Office: (902) 494-3820 or 1-800-874-1669 Thur FREE* tickets will be available at theatre box offices www.dal.ca/artscentre starting Tuesday, July 4, 2017. Tickets will be available on the day of the event provided that seating is still available. Events from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. * Service charges may apply to telephone and Schedule subject to change. Internet orders.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 7 Bird Talk

 Dear Bird Talk,  Dear Bird Talk, I would like to know how many months we My wife and I have travelled to Hilton problem – they purchased the wrong insurance. can be in the U.S. every year and when does Head, S.C. for the past two winters for three These two insurers/brokers spent their time the year start? All this in plain English. Thank months each time. My question is, can we looking for ways to decline claims and your you. claim our travel insurance on our taxes? friends thought that their (perhaps cheaper) price would cover them properly. These are two Joe Hall Murray Antram more excellent examples of why you should Niagara Falls, ON Mississauga, ON only buy Medipac. We would have paid both of these claims based on your facts. I would have Ed.: The year starts on the day you cross the Ed.: Yes! The Canadian Snowbird Association both of your friends write a letter of outrage to border. You may stay for up to six months during was instrumental in having travel medical the president of the insurance company and the following 12-month period. That’s it! insurance premiums deductible for tax pur- the head of the brokerage company, if one was poses, during the Harper government years. involved. This is outrageous treatment of our Sometimes, a border guard will only allow you snowbird community. a shorter period (for instance – only 90 days); in that case, you will have to comply with the  shorter length of stay and leave when the Dear Bird Talk,  Dear Bird Talk, 90 days are up. People tend to get confused I enjoy your Bird Talk letters and responses. between the IRS (taxes) and the Department What makes it so great is that, as snowbirds, Do you have to return to Canada for 30 days of Homeland Security (formerly the INS), which we all have a lot in common and we share or more to get a new B2 visa, or can you go deals with immigration. Taxes are calculated on our experiences through your efforts. to Mexico or other countries? a calendar year basis, while lengths of stay are calculated for ANY 12-month period – starting My concern is health insurance (a favourite Maurice Michaud from the day you cross the border. topic among seniors). Within the last year or so, on two occasions acquaintances of ours Ed.: The B2 visa is verbally issued by, and applies were denied health coverage because of a only for travel to, the United States. You may “fatty liver” condition. The insurance says travel to other places any time, as long as you  Dear Bird Talk, that the persons answered NO to the liver have the proper documents which the other We have filed 8840 forms for a number of question. In one case, the person suffered country requires. Each province has restrictions years now, having no U.S. income to declare. an ailment totally unrelated to the liver. In as to how many days that you may remain out of In Dec. 2016, my lucky wife won a jackpot in both cases, the persons had to be air-evac province; normally, this is up to seven months. a Nevada casino and, of course, they withheld to Canada with no insurance coverage. In Check the CSA Travellers’ Report Card for each 30%. In Jan. 2017, she filed a U.S. tax return one case, the patient was not even aware that province’s specific rules. with an ITIN number, again with no other he was afflicted with this condition. How U.S. income and, in Feb. 2017, believe it or not many of us might have this liver condition got her tax rebate cheque. Question is, should and not be aware of it? I just want to pass  Dear Bird Talk, she still file Form 8840 for 2016? Thanks for this on. Any suggestion as to what action a the advice. snowbird should take? Re: Letter from Laurel Pettigrew, Cochrane, AB Bill Naturkach Chuck Gentes Fort Frances, ON St. Catharines, ON There is a very reasonable way to have your blood work done. My husband required Ed.: Congratulations! It is relatively easy to get Ed.: I have a fatty liver, and most of our read- monthly blood work and urine analysis (in that 30% withholding tax back, as Bill proved. It ers will, as well. It is not really considered a relation to a kidney disorder) to be provided just takes time. Always file the 8840, and keep disease but is as a result of our rich diets and to the specialist for monitoring of the disease. a copy – no exceptions. lifestyles. Both of your friends had the same We found a company called Healthwaves,

8 | www.snowbirds.org Bird Talk

Bird Talk Featuring the letters & concerns of our members

SEND YOUR LETTERS TO Bird Talk, c/o CSANews 180 Lesmill Road Toronto, Ontario M3B 2T5 or by e-mail: [email protected]

which performs this service for a very rea- Ed.: As most of you know, your travel insurance period. What confuses me and others, I sonable cost. If I remember correctly, we paid does not cover the regular care and monitoring would think, is how to enter the number around $35 per screening. This was in the of a chronic condition. Kidney dialysis and heart of days you were present in the U.S. on Phoenix area and I don’t know if they are in monitoring are the two most common require- the Form 8840. These are two different all states. You can go on their website and get ments and these can be either very inexpensive issues, one being for tax purposes and one dates and locations for months in advance. or exorbitant, depending on where you go. We for immigration, I believe. On filing out They set up in many areas, including grocery found the care for my mother’s dialysis in the the number of days on the Form 8840, I and hardware stores. It is a registered nurse local paper, too, and it was excellent AND cheap. have submitted the actual days we were or practitioner who draws the blood. If you We were in the Tampa area at the time. We also present in the U.S., excluding days where require urine analysis, you have to contact had an incredible battery of tests at a bus in a we returned home for a week or so. Is this them so that they will have the proper pharmacy parking lot for $149, again found in the the right way to fill out the form? equipment at the place where you are going local paper. They found my aortic aneurysm and to attend. We found this by an advertisement probably saved my life. We now go every year. Sherry E. in the paper and it was far more reasonable Vancouver, B.C. than the quote of $450 from labs which we contacted. The results were usually in the mail Ed.: That is the correct way to fill in the 8840  Dear Bird Talk, about two days later and then we faxed them – using only the actual days in the U.S. to the specialist. Hope this helps. We are snowbirds who have been filling out the Form 8840 yearly. We understand that Shannon Hammer the B2 visa allows us ‒ as visitors ‒ to stay in Millet, Alberta the U.S. for up to six months in a 12-month Paying your premium just got easier and more secure! Pay your premium online with your bank’s website or mobile app. Here’s how… 1. Complete your Early Bird Travel Insurance application and calculate your premium. 2. Log into your bank’s website and add MEDIPAC as a payee. 3. Enter your Medipac account number, found under the bar code on your application. 4. Pay your premium. 5. Send your completed application to Medipac.

TRAVEL EMERGENCY MEDICAL INSURANCE *1 2 3 4 5 6* 2017 EARLY BIRD PLAN  ACCOUNT NUMBER  Must be postmarked on or before August 14, 2017 If you are travelling for less than 41 days and you are under the age of 56, you do not have to complete sections A, C and D of this application. If you are uncertain of your answer to any of the medical questions, consult your doctor. APPLICANT 1 APPLICANT 2 A. ELIGIBILITY ✓Check Yes or No YES NO YES NO 1 Have you been diagnosed as having a terminal illness, been advised by a physician not to travel or do you 1 have HIV, AIDS or AIDS-related complex? CSANews | YESSUMMERNO YES 2017NO | 9 2 Have you been diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis? 2 YES NO YES NO 3 Have you EVER had stem cell treatment or an organ or bone marrow transplant (excluding cornea or skin 3 graft)? YES NO YES NO 4 During the 5 YEARS prior to the date of this application, have you been treated for, taken or been 4 prescribed medication for, or been diagnosed with Lung Cancer, Metastatic Cancer or two or more types of YES NO YES NO cancer (excluding Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Skin Cancer)? 5 Do you HAVE a Cardiac condition with an ejection fraction of LESS THAN 40% or a ventricular function 5 NO NO grade of 3 or 4? YES YES 6 Do you HAVE Moderately Severe or Severe Cardiac Valve Stenosis? 6 YES NO YES NO 7 Do you HAVE an Aneurysm greater than 4.5 cm in size (diameter or width) which remains surgically 7 untreated? YES NO YES NO 8 During the 6 MONTHS prior to the date of this application, have you: a undergone Chemotherapy for Cancer or Malignant Tumour(s)? 8a YES NO YES NO b ha d Cardiac Pacemaker Implant surgery, Coronary Bypass surgery or surgery on ANY artery? 8b YES NO YES NO 9 During the 12 MONTHS prior to the date of this application, have you: a had any other Heart surgery (including Ablation, Cardiac Defibrillator Implant, Angioplasty and/or Stent), 9a had a Heart Attack or an episode of Congestive Heart Failure? YES NO YES NO b had a Stroke, a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), a Ministroke or Amaurosis Fugax? 9b YES NO YES NO c h ad ANY Chronic Lung Disease (including Emphysema, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease [COPD], 9c Chronic Bronchitis, Reactive Airway Disease or Asthma) which caused you to be hospitalized for more YES NO YES NO than 24 consecutive hours, or for which you have taken or been prescribed Prednisone or Solu-Medrol? d taken or been prescribed Home Oxygen for any reason? 9d YES NO YES NO e taken or been prescribed Insulin or two (2) or more medications for Diabetes AND medication for a 9e heart condition? If medication is taken or prescribed for only one condition, answer “No” to this YES NO YES NO question. The term “medication” includes Nitroglycerin in any form. If you answered YES to ANY of the questions in Section A, YOU ARE If you answered NO to ALL the questions in Section NOT ELIGIBLE to purchase this plan. Call 1-877-888-5259 and ask about A, YOU ARE ELIGIBLE to purchase this plan. Please our Individual Underwritten Insurance. complete the application.

B. PERSONAL INFORMATION Please Print APPLICANT 1 APPLICANT 2

Name: Name: Date of Birth: Date of Birth: Day: ______Month: ______Year: ______Male Female Day: ______Month: ______Year: ______Male Female Provincial Health Version Code: Provincial Health Version Code: Card #: If Any (ON Only) Card #: If Any (ON Only) Pre-retirement Position: Pre-retirement Position: employer: employer: Have you smoked cigarettes in the Have you smoked cigarettes in the 3 years prior to the date of this application? YES NO 3 years prior to the date of this application? YES NO Doctor’s Phone: Doctor’s Phone: Name: ( ) Name: ( ) Specialist’s Phone: Specialist’s Phone: Name: ( ) Name: ( ) Specialty Specialty Type: Type: Emergency Contact Emergency Contact Person not travelling Phone: Person not travelling Phone: with you: ( ) with you: ( ) CANADIAN ADDRESS (Both Applicants) OUT-OF-COUNTRY ADDRESS (Both Applicants) Street Name Apt or Street Name Apt or & Number: Lot #: & Number: Lot #: Postal Zip City: Province: Code: City: State: Code: Phone: Phone: E-mail: ( ) E-mail: ( ) Please mail my insurance policy to my: Canadian Address Out-of-Country Address President’s Message

Karen Huestis CSA President

t the end of May, the U.S. Leslie addressed Parliament, providing combine live musical entertainment Department of Homeland important updates regarding key pieces of with useful information regarding the Security (DHS) published the pending legislation, including Bill C-21, snowbird lifestyle. As always, admission Fiscal Year 2016 Entry/Exit An Act to amend the Customs Act. As is free so, if you’re able, please attend a AOverstay Report, which contains the most you may remember, Bill C-21 permits show and say hello. Feel free to bring a recent data on foreign visitor overstays Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) friend…we are always looking for new to the United States. The data show that to collect personal information about all members. You can find dates and times for the fiscal year 2016, the total overstay individuals who are leaving or have left for all of the shows elsewhere in this issue rate of Canadian visitors admitted under Canada. Passage of this bill is necessary of CSANews. a B1 (business) or B2 (tourism) visa was for the expansion of the cross-border 1.44 per cent. While the data confirm that information-sharing program, known Thanks to everyone who has taken the the vast majority of Canadians travelling as the Entry/Exit Initiative, which will time to renew their CSA membership. by air or sea depart the United States on automate the exchange of information If you have yet to do so, please take a time, there are thousands of Canadian on all travellers crossing the land border. moment to renew by simply mailing us travellers who remain in the U.S. beyond Once fully implemented, an entry record your renewal notice, visiting our website their authorized admission period. It is into the United States will serve as an (www.snowbirds.org) or calling the office. important to note that the information exit record from Canada and vice-versa. We now have more than 100,000 mem- provided by DHS relates to non-immi- Bill C-21 was introduced and passed its bers and believe me, that number makes grant visitors who travel through an air first reading in Parliament on June 16, a big difference when we are talking to or sea Port of Entry (POE), and does 2016. According to the parliamentary our elected officials. not include all foreign visitors to the secretary’s statement, full implementation United States, such as those who enter of the Entry/Exit Initiative is expected by Thanks also to everyone who made dona- the country by car. As the information 2018. We are monitoring the progress of tions to our Special Action Fund. Every being shared between Canada and the this program carefully and will provide dollar donated to the fund is held in a U.S. expands under programs such as updates as they become available. separate account and is used exclusively the Entry/Exit Initiative, the importance to fund our government advocacy efforts. of complying with U.S. immigration Although you are probably reading this Often, we find ourselves having to react policy cannot be overstated. Even in the on what is hopefully a nice summer day, it quickly to emerging issues on the political summer months we, as snowbirds, need won’t be long until it’s time to start think- front and that’s where the Special Action to be mindful of the time which we spend ing about travelling to our winter homes. Fund is a necessary resource. If you south of the border as day trips can add One of the best ways to prepare for the haven’t already, please consider making up quickly. In addition to possibly being journey south is by attending one of our a donation ‒ no amount is too small and denied entry or banned from entering annual Snowbird Lifestyle Presentations. this fund really plays an integral role in the United States for multiple years, the This year, we are starting our tour in allowing us to continue to advocate on potential tax repercussions of overstaying Ontario with stops in Richmond Hill, your behalf. your time in the U.S. can be severe. St. Catharines, Parry Sound and Nepean. From there, we head to Canada’s East Bill and I wish all of you a safe and relax- On May 17, the parliamentary secretary to Coast for shows in Summerside, Prince ing summer. the Minister of Foreign Affairs (Canada- Edward Island, Moncton, New Brunswick U.S. Relations) the Honourable Andrew and Halifax, Nova Scotia. These events

10 | www.snowbirds.org Government Relations Report

Ron Steeves First Vice-President

n Sunday, April 30, Nova Scotia Officer of Nova Scotia, Richard Temporale, emergency medical care which, if required, Premier and Liberal Leader for implementing our recommendation and will be obtained outside of Saskatchewan. Stephen McNeil called a prov- for providing the voters of Nova Scotia with Some provinces in Canada, such as Manitoba, incial election for May 30. As an important new resource. exempt travel medical insurance premiums Owith every provincial, territorial and federal from retail sales tax because health insurance election, the CSA composed an election In the recent 2017 budget, the government of covering the health-care costs of insured handbook which featured the current prov- Saskatchewan announced that it was raising individuals is deemed a non-taxable insur- incial policy regarding a range of snowbird the rate of the provincial sales tax (PST) from ance contract. Other provinces, such as issues. These included time permitted out- five per cent to six per cent. In addition to this Newfoundland and Labrador, exempt travel side of the province, reimbursement rates increase, the government also announced that medical insurance premiums from retail sales for emergency services received abroad and it would be expanding the number of goods tax because the insurance coverage relates to travel supply policy under the Nova Scotia and services subject to PST, including travel risk, peril or events outside of the province. Family and Seniors’ Pharmacare Programs. In medical insurance premiums (which were addition, the election handbook also provided previously tax exempt). The effective date for With more than 5,000 CSA members in members with information about advance the application of PST to insurance premiums Saskatchewan, there is strength in numbers. polls, the continuous poll, as well as the vote- is August 1, 2017. This is why we are asking you to write or by-mail option for absent electors. The Nova e-mail your local MLA, Premier Brad Wall Scotia election handbook was distributed to This change will make Saskatchewan the ([email protected]) and the Minister of our members in Nova Scotia both electronic- only jurisdiction in Canada which collects Finance Kevin Doherty (minister.fi@gov. ally by e-mail and by direct mail. In the end, retail sales tax on travel medical insurance sk.ca) requesting that the government of Nova Scotia voters gave Premier McNeil his premiums and will increase the cost of travel Saskatchewan exempt travel medical insur- second majority government. On behalf of the insurance for Saskatchewan residents. The ance premiums from the provincial sales tax. Canadian Snowbird Association, I would like Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) is Contact information for Saskatchewan MLAs to congratulate Premier McNeil on his victory firmly opposed to the planned application can be accessed online at www.legassembly. and we look forward to working with him of PST to travel medical insurance premiums sk.ca/mlas. and his government on issues of importance in the province. The CSA believes that travel to our Nova Scotia members. medical insurance premiums should remain You may also find ourGuidelines to Writing tax exempt in Saskatchewan, as they are in Government Representatives useful when In the sixth edition of the Canadian Travellers’ every other province and territory in the composing your e-mails and letters, which Report Card, we recommended that Elections country. you can find at www.snowbirds.org. We Nova Scotia produce a comprehensive bro- kindly ask that members copy the CSA on chure specifically designed for travellers, and As you know, supplementary travel medical the e-mails and letters that they send. that they make the brochure readily available insurance is a necessity for those who travel to electors. We are pleased to announce that, outside of Canada, as the government of We will keep members updated regarding for the May 30 general election, Elections Saskatchewan only reimburses travellers a our progress in Saskatchewan via e-mail, Nova Scotia acted on our suggestion and maximum of $100 per day for emergency CSANews and www.snowbirds.org. If you produced a brochure for travelling Nova in-patient hospital care received abroad. have any questions related to this advocacy Scotians. The brochure highlights the options Recognizing the limited emergency medical campaign, please do not hesitate to contact for casting a ballot if you are travelling on care coverage outside of Canada, the gov- our office toll-free at 1-800-265-3200 or or before Election Day. As well, it guides ernment of Saskatchewan recommends that e-mail us at [email protected]. the reader through the timeline regarding residents travelling outside of the country when the application and write-in ballot kit should obtain additional health insurance. Thank you for your participation in this must be completed and received by Elections initiative. Nova Scotia. The brochure can be accessed Moreover, travel medical insurance coverage online at electionsnovascotia.ca/travellers. is generally purchased from providers located We would like to thank the Chief Electoral outside of the province and is purchased for

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 11 Insurance

J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc.

Canadian Travel to the United States “Canadians made 4.8 million leisure trips to the U.S. between January and April, an increase of 6.3 per cent. Overnight travel (for all purposes) to the U.S. has now increased for eight consecutive months, and April was the first month since 2013 that growth in auto trips was registered from all regions. On a monthly basis, travel to the U.S. was 14.9 per cent higher than last April, however, it was 23.6 per cent lower than the peak of April 2013, when the loonie was close to par with the greenback.”

his is a direct quote from the Conference Board of for Early Bird, up to 10% off as your Claim-Free discount Canada’s publication Outward Bound. It appears and up to 8% off as your Loyalty Credit. And then – take that snowbird travel is on the increase once again. that $25 and put it in your pocket. TThe loonie is starting to strengthen nicely and, hopefully, it will be over $0.78 and rising by the time you are reading We are expecting a very busy year this year, so the earlier this. you call us the better – and you can obviously sign up online, if you prefer. If you can use a cheque or a debit Are you planning on heading south this winter? If so, you card, we would be most appreciative as the credit card should buy your travel insurance right now. Medipac is fees are getting to be so exorbitant. offering their Early Bird Special again this year and we have instituted a rate freeze effective during the Early This is going to be a fun year! Not only do we have a CSA Bird season. 25th anniversary, it is also Canada’s 150th birthday. I should also mention that this month is CSA President Karen As you know, the Canadian Snowbird Association is Huestis and her husband Bill’s 55th wedding anniversary. celebrating their 25th anniversary this year and, as a special Oh, and my son Chris is getting married to a wonderful reward for their Medipac clients, we have offered a $25 girl. I am certain that many good things are happening in reduction to your Medipac premium for each person. your world as well; you should try and get out to some of This is only effective for our Early Bird season, so don’t the great events taking place across the country, miss out. All of our other discounts still apply – 5% off enjoy your summer and, as always, travel safely.

12 | www.snowbirds.org Improve your hearing. Improve your life.

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with Michael Coren

his May, the British author would be a perfect starting point for preserve of a handful of oddities, and actor Stephen Fry was a systematic theology class. He was such laws still exist in Scotland and briefly investigated by the eloquent and perceptive, and forced Northern Ireland; and Denmark – TIrish police on charges of blasphemy. one to think. I don’t have to agree considered a model of pluralism and Yes, you read that correctly. The with him to admire him, though freedom – has just brought the first case was based on remarks made much of what he said was certainly blasphemy charge in 46 years. A stag- two years ago on Irish television compelling. Faith is a dialogue and gering 66% of the Danish population and, if he had been convicted, Fry tough, challenging questions can’t be supports the blasphemy law and, in could have faced a fine of $25,000 strangled or ignored simply because case anybody assumes that this is euros. It speaks volumes, or perhaps they are difficult. That way lies an idea imported from the Muslim bibles, that a member of the public oppression, bigotry and intolerance. world, less than 5% of the Danish in a modern, western, liberal and population follows Islam. democratic country can still initiate More to the point, who knew that legal and criminal proceedings if Ireland – a member of the European Similar laws still exist in Poland, offended by comments about their Union no less – still had blasphemy Austria, Italy, Greece, Turkey and God and faith. I should declare at laws? In fact, this particular darling Russia. In much of the Islamic world, this stage that I know Stephen and is not some stale anachronism but of course, the notion of blasphemy am immensely fond of him, but that was passed as recently as 2009. The is not only part of the political and doesn’t influence my opinion of this so-called Defamation Act prohibits social fabric, it can lead to deadly situation one way or the other. the “publishing or uttering [of] consequences. In Canada, blasphem- matter that is grossly abusive or ous libel is, surprisingly, still a crime During the interview in question, insulting in relation to matters sacred but earlier this year, the government the well-known atheist was asked by any religion, thereby intentionally announced that it was currently what he would say if he met God causing outrage among a substantial under review. It’s difficult to imagine after death. The reply: “How dare number of adherents of that religion.” many Canadians supporting such a you create a world in which there law, but polls in various northern is such misery? It’s not our fault? It’s The Fry debacle passed away, but European countries with similar not right. It’s utterly, utterly evil. Why something far more serious occurred values reveal surprising results. should I respect a capricious, mean- at around the same time when Basuki minded, stupid god who creates a Tjahaja Purnama, Jakarta’s Christian Something deeply troubling is world which is so full of injustice governor, was sentenced to two years occurring. As freedoms expand, and pain?” He continued, “Because in prison in Indonesia for blasphemy. subsequent fears of those freedoms the god who created this universe, if He was accused of insulting Islam develop in reaction and there is it was created by god, is quite clearly while running for re-election, even none so angry as a fundamentalist a maniac, an utter maniac, totally though he has repeatedly denied scorned. Insult for its own sake is selfish. We have to spend our lives on the charge. Here, we have a senior childish and pointless, but strong our knees thanking him. What kind politician sent to jail for allegedly words to make a point or to oppose of god would do that?” The interview making a remark about Islam, in a creed are not only acceptable, but has been watched online more than a country with the largest Muslim also absolutely vital in a healthy dem- seven million times and I am sure population in the world, but one ocracy. I will remember that every that this number will now multiply. that claims equality for the 13% of time I sit down to pray to my God, its non-Muslims. and shall thank Him for our right to As a seminarian studying for ordin- speak our minds. ation to the priesthood, I can assure But, before we congratulate ourselves you that what Stephen Fry said that blasphemy legislation is the

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Story and photos by Barb & Ron Kroll

Surprising Gibraltar

How many surprises can you cram into a British Overseas Territory that is barely twice the size of New York City’s Central Park?

There is no place on earth like Gibraltar. It’s a little piece of Britain linked to southern Spain by a narrow isthmus.

Gibraltar is strategically located on one of the busiest sea lanes in the world, the Strait of Gibraltar, at the junction of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Morocco beckons across the strait only 12 kilometres to the south.

Planes have the right of way

We encountered our first surprise while get- each plane lands or takes off, the safety arms ting here from the Spanish town of La Linea. lift and traffic resumes. Traffic lights stop vehicles and pedestrians following the 1.5-kilometre-long isthmus south Flying time from London, Manchester from Spain after border passport formalities. and other U.K. cities to Gibraltar is about Why? Crossing barriers are the only obstacles 2.5 hours. Most visitors, however, arrive by to collisions between cars and flights using the cruise ship, car or coach tours from Marbella, Gibraltar International Airport runway that Malaga and other Spanish Costa del Sol cities. Six-minute ride on the Cable Car to Top Station intersects Winston Churchill Avenue. After Surprise #2: Gibraltar has only 50 kilometres as New York’s Empire State Building, the 426- of roads. Parking is scarce, so most visitors metre natural fortress juts out of the Strait of leave their cars in the large lot by La Linea’s Gibraltar like an imposing fist of limestone. marina and walk for about 15 minutes (or take a bus) to Gibraltar’s town centre. Another sur- Dwarfing everyone and everything around prise – locals drive on the right, even though it, the Rock was one of the two legendary Gibraltar is British. Pillars of Hercules. (The other promontory is in North Africa.) When the ancient hero It’s easy to see the compact town on foot but, pushed them apart, the waters of the Atlantic to view the attractions on the Rock, Gibraltar’s Ocean rushed through the gap to form the scenic landmark, you should take a minibus Mediterranean Sea, separating the African Winston Churchill Avenue intersects tour or ride the Cable Car as we did. As high Gibraltar’s airport runway and European continents.

16 | www.snowbirds.org Travel

More holes than Swiss cheese

For years, banks and insurance companies sledgehammers, crowbars and gunpowder, touted that they were as solid as the Rock of they blasted and hewed out the rock to create Gibraltar. But, surprise! The limestone rock vital gun emplacements. Today, mannequin is honeycombed with more than 140 caves soldiers dressed in authentic 18th-century and 53 kilometres of man-made and natural uniforms man the guns, facing out towards tunnels. Spain.

St. Michael’s Cave is the largest. During the What happened to the rock excavated from Second World War, the cave was outfitted as the tunnels riddling the Rock? It was used to a hospital, but it was never used. Flashing build Gibraltar’s airport runway, which we multicoloured lights illuminate stalactites viewed below some of the tunnel openings. and stalagmites in a series of underground Yes, the runway that we walked across. chambers stretching 214 metres into the rock. Inside the largest cavern, a dramatic natural cathedral grotto with superb acoustics, audi- ences enjoy concerts and cultural events in a 400-seat theatre.

Equally impressive are The Great Siege Tunnels. A detachment of British military Flashing multicoloured lights illuminate Costumed mannequins and a cannon inside St. Michael’s Cave officers excavated this defence system The Great Siege Tunnels during The Great Siege of 1779-83. Using

Massive black cannon at O’Hara’s Battery

Military history comes to life Entrance to World War II Tunnels During the Second World War, concerns scene. A sign explained that the gun had a 28-ton about a German invasion led to an expansion barrel and a 27,066-metre range. of the tunnel system. The excavations were so extensive that the interior of the Rock was In addition to caves, tunnels and military relics, large enough to house an entire garrison of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve protects numerous 16,000 soldiers, a power station, hospital, flowers and plants. We followed a spider’s web of water distillation plant and supply depots. easy-to-difficult themed trails that weave through Churchill and Eisenhower planned the Allied the greenery. invasion of North Africa from these World War II Tunnels. Crying seagulls and cheeping migratory and resident birds surrounded us. (The Gibraltar Ornithological At O’Hara’s Battery, on the highest point of & Natural History Society lists 311 species.) A free Upper Rock Nature Reserve the Rock, we viewed a massive black cannon, downloadable app provided maps, as well as infor- preserves more than 500 species a 2.8-metre gun and a 1947 film to set the mation about the flora, fauna and points of interest. of flora

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 17 Travel Monkey shenanigans For us, the Rock’s most surprising attraction was the semi-wild troop of Barbary Apes (actually, tailless macaques) that scamper around the nature reserve and the Cable Car Top and Middle Stations. Gibraltar is the only place in Europe where monkeys live in their natural state.

More than 200 of the tiny simians noncha- A management team feeds the macaques lantly perched on rocks and railings, groomed healthy meals of oranges, potatoes, lettuce their youngsters and snoozed on viewing and carrots. Fines of £500 and warning scopes. Their population wasn’t always so signs discourage visitors from feeding the high. In 1942, when their numbers dwindled Barbary Apes. Other signs describe monkey to only seven, Churchill ordered additional behaviours, such as grooming and submissive primates from their original North African gestures, and warn visitors not to touch the homelands. Legend claims that if the playful cuddly looking critters because they can bite. monkeys ever leave the Rock, their demise will spell the end of British rule.

The cinnamon-coloured troublemakers created havoc by attempting to steal food from purses and bags carried by unsuspecting tour- ists. Two nimble-fingered pranksters hopped on our backpacks and quickly unzipped them. Finding only camera equipment, they quickly left and snatched a bag of chips and a can of Macaque sits on railing at the Cable Car Top Station cola from nearby visitors. Panoramic views The Rock’s east face is almost as precipitous Competing with the macaques for our atten- as its north face, but there’s room for a road, tion were the splendid views from the terraces three narrow beaches and The Caleta Hotel around the Cable Car Top Station. It took at the bottom. The town has tenaciously crept only six minutes to ride the gondola from up the craggy west side and extended into the the base to the 412-metre-high platform, a bay, thanks to land reclamation. former Second World War gun emplacement. Since 1841, Trinity Lighthouse has dominated We felt as if we were on top of the world. Europa Point to the south. We were surprised From the terraces, we looked out over two to see the towering white minaret of a mosque continents, three countries and the merging behind the lighthouse. It is the southernmost of two great bodies of water. It was easy to mosque in continental Europe. The £5-mil- imagine how would-be invaders felt when lion gift from the late King of Saudi Arabia they gazed up at this towering obstacle rearing was built in 1997 for Gibraltar’s Muslim up above them. population, who primarily originate from Couple view the 426-metre peak of the Rock from a Cable Car Top Station terrace nearby Morocco.

View from a terrace of the road, two beaches and The Caleta Hotel at the base of the Rock’s east face

18 | www.snowbirds.org Travel Bond was here From the Rock, we also had great views of many yachts moored in the marinas. Gibraltar Harbour may look familiar to 007 aficionados.

In You Only Live Twice, Sean Connery was supposedly buried at sea in Hong Kong Harbour, but the ruse burial was actually filmed from the HMS Tenby in Gibraltar Harbour. The Upper Rock was the 1987 film location for The Living Daylights. The opening NATO exercise scene starred Timothy Dalton, with some mischievous macaques as extras.

Sean Connery liked Gibraltar so much that he married his first and second wives here. Gibraltar Harbour where Sean Connery starred in You Only Live Twice

Another James Bond, Roger Moore and his new wife honeymooned in Gibraltar. Sean Connery and Diane Cilento stayed Until we travelled here, we didn’t know that at The Rock Hotel after their wedding. Gibraltar is an excellent place for viewing In 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono signed Completely different is the Sunborn Gibraltar, dolphins year-round. Our Dolphin Adventure their marriage papers at the Registry Office. a floating hotel inside a 142-metre yacht. It’s ticket pictured the most common species that Charles and Diana boarded the royal yacht located in Ocean Village Marina, from where frolic in the Bay of Gibraltar – bottlenose, Britannia in Gibraltar for their 11-day dolphin-watching cruises depart. common and striped. Mediterranean cruise honeymoon.

Pedestrians walk through one of the arched gates by the Southport Wall

How Gibraltar got its name Much of the town centre is protected by the the rock above the town. In 711 A.D., Tarik- Gibraltar Heritage Trust. At the Southport ibn-Zeyad and his Moorish armies landed Wall and Gates, a sign explained that a wall near the Rock. His name for the Rock, Gebel- has existed here since the Moorish occupa- al-Tarik – which means Tarik’s mountain – th tion. Gibraltar’s ancient ramparts were started was eventually corrupted to Gibraltar. Battle-scarred 14 -century Tower of Homage above the Moorish castle by the Moors, extended by the Spanish and finished by the British. Whether their heritage is British, Spanish or Moroccan, Gibraltarians speak English, The Moors were in Gibraltar for more than Spanish and (surprise!) Llanito. This local Mediterranean languages. Local restaurants 600 years. A 14th-century Moorish castle and dialect is an eclectic mix of British English, reflect this heritage, serving fish and chips, its battle-scarred Tower of Homage cling to Andalusian Spanish, Hebrew and other Spanish tapas and Moroccan couscous.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 19 Travel

Casemates Square viewed through Grand Casemates Gates

Nelson’s Blood

Inside the walled city and its gates, we dis- covered a maze of narrow lanes, steep pas- sageways and elegant stucco buildings, many Friendly bobbies wear helmets with shutters and wrought iron balconies. The ambiance, however, was undoubtedly At the north end of Main Street, the mostly British. As we meandered along pretty lanes, pedestrianized long central avenue, we found we spotted fire engine-red telephone booths Casemates Square with the Gibraltar Crystal and Royal Mail boxes, bobbies with helmets, factory where glass-blowers work, outdoor pubs with alfresco dining and several stores cafés and bars such as the Lord Nelson, which selling VAT (value-added tax)-free fragrances, The Lord Nelson bar features pub grub features live music on Thursday and Friday liquor, watches and British specialties. and live music nights.

Statue of Admiral Nelson at South Bastion

We were surprised to learn that one of ashore and packed it into a keg of rum for Gibraltar’s most popular souvenirs is Nelson’s shipment to England for burial. Two men who Blood rum. Why such a ghastly name? In died from wounds after the battle are buried 1805, after Admiral Nelson died in the Battle in Trafalgar Cemetery just past Referendum of Trafalgar, crew members brought his body Gate on the south end of Main Street.

20 | www.snowbirds.org Travel

Bus drives through the Referendum Gate, named after the 1967 referendum in which 99% of Gibraltarians voted to remain under British sovereignty

A foreign thorn in Spain’s side The Referendum Gate was named after a 1967 centuries. In 1713, Spain ceded Gibraltar to free flow of goods, money and workers across referendum in which 99% of Gibraltarians Britain under the Treaty of Utrecht. Spain the border. Spain wants joint sovereignty of voted to remain under British sovereignty. has been trying to get it back for more than Gibraltar to allow it to retain access to the The 32,460 residents comprise the fifth-high- three centuries since. The 1967 referendum EU market, something Britain is unlikely to est population density in the world – after in which all but 1% of Gibraltarians voted grant. Time will tell what happens. Macau, Monaco, Singapore and Hong Kong. to remain part of England so provoked (Gibraltar is only 6.7 square kilometres in the Spanish dictator Franco, that he closed We lost count of the number of surprises that size.) the border between Spain and Gibraltar. It we encountered in Gibraltar. But we know one remained closed for 16 years, from 1969 until thing for certain. With Brexit on the horizon, This is an interesting time to be in Gibraltar. 1985. this British Overseas Territory will remain Brexit threatens to open old problems endlessly fascinating. between Britain and Spain. Gibraltar has thrived economically under British rule and has enjoyed open trade with After the Spaniards drove the Moors out of Spain since 1973 through the European Gibraltar in 1492, they used the strategic Union. But now, Britain’s divorce negotiations territory as a naval base for more than two with the EU threaten Gibraltar’s access to the

RESOURCES Gibraltar Tourist Board: www.visitgibraltar.gi

Cable Car & the Rock information: www.gibraltarinfo.gi

Barb & Ron Kroll publish the trip-planning website: Shops line the mostly pedestrianized Main Street www.KrollTravel.com

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 21 RV Lifestyle The South Okanagan A Special Place Osoyoos and Osoyoos Lake

rom the moment you first Surrounding the desert, however, Before becoming a wine destina- Two towns are standouts for their see the Okanagan Valley, it are grasslands that look and feel tion, the Okanagan was a family concentration of vineyards and is obviously a special place. as arid and dry as the official holiday spot, best known for its wineries: Oliver (named for long- F desert territory. But, within “beaches and peaches” – the lakes ago British Columbia premier The Okanagan is characterized this land, there is fertility. The with their sandy shores, boating John Oliver) and Osoyoos (which by a dry, sunny climate, beautiful desert and sandy slopes and and waterskiing, as well as the shares a name with one of seven landscapes and a series of lakes. benches that make up the South countless farm stands offering Okanagan bands; pronounce it Okanagan also double as wine fresh produce and fruit. The “oo-SUE-yooze”). Together, the In the centre of British Columbia, country, bursting with goodness. beaches and peaches – and cher- towns boast 39 wineries that near the very bottom of Canada, ries, apricots, apples and pears – extend from the lush valley into there is a desert. On the horizon are mountains of are still there, and the Okanagan the semi-arid mountains which green foliage, aqua blue lakes and, still welcomes families. With its surround the area. Dust kicks up and hovers in the in the distance, rolling vineyards mild, dry climate, the region is air with each step, as if trekking as far as the eye can see. also popular with golfers, hikers through the Arizona outback. and bikers.

22 | www.snowbirds.org RV Lifestyle

Story and photos by Rex Vogel

See Ya Later Ranch looking north toward Tinhorn Creek looking Okanagan Falls and Skaha Lake south toward Osoyoos

Borrowing Owl Gehringer Brothers

he premium Okanagan Today, most vines in the famed icewines. These are con- NK’mip (pronounced ‘Ink-a- wine industry didn’t begin Okanagan Valley are less than 25 centrated, sweet dessert wines meep’) Cellars, North America’s until the late 1980s. After years old and many of its wineries often served in chocolate shot first aboriginal owned and Tdabbling for decades in easy- are still run by the families who glasses. operated winery near Osoyoos to-grow hybrids and labrusca started them. Lake. NK’mip sits on natural (native American varieties), Among the reds, expect out- desert land surrounded by the the Okanagan wine industry The wide diversity of growing standing Merlot, Cabernet stunning contrast of sagebrush got its real launch in 1988. In a environments in the Okanagan Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and vineyards. move designed to counter the means that the region is suited Pinot Noir, Syrah, Gamay Noir North American Free Trade to an unusually varied selection and Marechal Foch. Wine tasting here is as much Agreement’s negative effect on of grape varieties. about the surroundings as the the Canadian wine industry, Wineries that clearly exceed wine itself. Wedged between the government began paying The top white varietals include our grape expectations include the Cascades and the Columbia growers to pull out labrusca and Chardonnay, Sauvignon Tinhorn Creek, Gehringer Mountains, the Okanagan Valley French hybrid vines and replant Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Brothers, Hester Creek, C.C. enjoys hot summers and mild with the more desirable European Gewurztraminer and Riesling, Jentsch Cellars along Oliver’s winters unique to Canada – it (Vitis vinifera) grape varieties. with some grapes being left to Miracle Mile, Burrowing Owl constitutes the country’s only freeze on the vine for the region’s on the Black Sage bench and temperate desert region.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 23 RV Lifestyle

soyoos Lake, the warm- est lake in Canada, is particularly suited for a Odip early in the morning before the beach traffic reaches its busy peak, a blissful way to start a day.

Whether you descend the steep switchbacks of the Crowsnest Highway into Osoyoos or drive through Penticton past the rugged Skaha Bluffs, the South Okanagan appears completely different from its surroundings, almost un-Canadian.

Its reputation often precedes it of course – Canada’s “pocket desert,” a small area of bunchgrass, prickly pear cacti and rattlesnakes that cling to undeveloped sites in the valley between Oliver and Osoyoos. The dominant shrub in Lake Osoyoos this area is the antelope-brush, a gangly plant that is covered A place of great geological and with fragrant yellow blossoms biological diversity, birders come in spring. from all over the continent to see This is not another place. the 200 species that breed in the Okanagan. There are few places It is the place. of similar size in North America —Charles Bowden which could match that total. The diversity is a product of both location – sandwiched between the coast and the prairies, Between Oliver and Osoyoos between cold northern forests and Great Basin deserts – and elevation.

The Okanagan is British Columbia’s deepest interior valley, extending from the hot valley floor at 900 feet to alpine peaks at 7,300 feet elevation.

The valley was born millions of years ago in the collisions of continents which built the entire West Coast of North America. Two hundred million years ago, the West Coast was somewhere between the Okanagan and Calgary; then a large piece of land known as Quesnellia slid into North America, creating much of the British Columbia interior. A second collision formed the coastal regions of the province.

24 | www.snowbirds.org RV Lifestyle

McIntyre Bluff at the south end of Vaseux Lake

Skaha Lake looking north to Penticton and Okanagan Lake beyond

Then, about 55 million years ago, Volcanic activity was common the collisions subsided and the during the birth of the Okanagan, monumental pressure that had creating mountains throughout been pushing eastward through- the central Okanagan including out British Columbia eased. This Knox Mountain in Kelowna, relaxation created deep cracks Giant’s Head in Summerland and throughout the province, among most of the hills around the White them the newborn Okanagan Lake Basin northwest of Oliver. Valley. The ancient rocks that had once been the continental shelf of The final geological touch in the North America, long buried by shaping of the valley came two Quesnellia, rose to the surface. million years ago, when the valley They now form the cliffs along was covered by a series of ice the east side of the Okanagan, sheets. The Pleistocene glaciers As the last glaciers melted about torrential rain to Vancouver and as well as the massive McIntyre rounded off the local mountains 10,000 years ago, the meltwaters Seattle are grey skies and a brisk Bluff that forms the west wall and brought massive amounts created the silt benches between southerly wind on Osoyoos Lake. of the valley at the south end of of sand and gravel to the valley Penticton and Naramata (that Vaseux Lake. bottom. are now renowned for their fine As a result, the south Okanagan vineyards), as well as the sandy receives only 30 cm of precipita- benches of Oliver and Osoyoos tion each year – about the same that are so ideal for the noble as Tucson, Arizona. The cold grape varieties. Canadian winters are strongly moderated by the large lakes in The Okanagan lies in the the valley, and vintners needing rain shadow of the Cascade to harvest icewine grapes at -8 °C Mountains. Pacific storms, are often forced to wait for the pushed by westerly winds, are coldest night in January. wrung dry as they ascend the cold coastal slopes of these high The summer beach experiences peaks. As the air descends into and tree-ripened fruit are still the Okanagan, it is relatively part of the Okanagan’s unique warm and dry; often, the only charm. local signs of a storm bringing SS Sicamoos moored on Okanagan Lake at Penticton CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 25 Finance

Where to “stash” your cash Understanding your options when it comes to investing your cash allocation By James Dolan

hey say that money makes the world go around. It’s probably more accurate to say that cash does; that is, the physical (and increasingly, digital) currency which we use to buy Tgoods and services every day. When we have enough cash, life goes a little more smoothly. When we don’t have enough of it – or, when the cash that we do have isn’t easily accessible or readily available to us – then even getting through the day seems a little more of a struggle. And that’s despite the wealth which we may have in real estate, stocks, bonds and other assets.

This simple realization that cash matters (a lot!) brings up an important question: where, exactly, is the best place for you to “stash” your cash?

As always, the answer to that question depends on your financial goals, along with your personal risk tolerance. To determine which option is right for you, it makes sense to step back and take a big-picture look at the role that cash plays in your overall finances, and try to understand exactly what your purpose is (or should be) when investing your cash.

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Understanding your need(s) for cash

On the surface, it doesn’t seem as if we need to “understand” anything about cash. Most of us have a lifetime of experience with it and, unlike stocks, bonds or real estate, there aren’t a lot of complicated features and it doesn’t take a PhD in finance to figure out how it works.

That said, we use cash for very different purposes. And thinking about those purposes may in fact lead us to explore different options for where we put our cash. Most of the time, you hold cash for one or more of the following reasons:

Everyday spending Emergency fund This is money that you use for paying your utility Let’s face it: stuff happens. And when it does, getting back to bills, buying groceries, filling up the car, buying normal usually costs us something. Whether it’s for a trans- your morning latte and so on. Although the exact mission that falls out of the car, a washer and dryer giving up definition of what constitutes an “everyday” expense the ghost, or a medical problem which you didn’t see coming, depends on your personal lifestyle, chances are that it’s good to know that you have a stash of cash you can dip access is the most important feature here – you want into, rather than having to take out a loan or sell some of your your spending cash close at hand and instantly retirement portfolio. available. Earning interest is nice, but it’s probably a secondary concern. How much cash should you hold in your emergency fund? That depends on both your personal circumstances and your comfort Most of the time, you’ll want this portion of your level with the kinds of “what-ifs” discussed above. That said, cash to sit in a chequing and/or savings account, most professional advisors recommend having a store of at least accessible by a debit card, because you’ll be dipping six months’ worth of everyday expenses (mortgage payments, into it for almost everything that you buy. property taxes, home and auto insurance, food and clothing allowance, etc.) within easy reach. However, some people sleep better at night knowing that they have a larger stash which they “Parked” money can access if they need to. This is the cash which you plan to use in the near future – in the next few months, or maybe a year at most – to pay for larger expenses. Some Portfolio diversification common examples include a new car to replace This is the cash that you hold within your broader retirement that 10-year-old clunker, or the new roof that you portfolio. In addition to the stocks, bonds and other assets which know you’ll need before the snow starts falling. you may hold, it’s common to hold at least some of your assets For snowbirds, the money which we set aside for in cash – partially as a way of balancing out the ups and downs our annual sojourn south of the border is another of other assets, and partially as a short-term parking place when example. you sell a given investment and before you reallocate the funds to another opportunity. If you’re like most Canadians, you’ll need to save up for these larger expenses over several months. The time period for which you’ll be holding this cash is hard During that time, you need a safe place to “park” to pin down. Some investors intend to only hold cash until the your cash while you’re building up the pile toward next opportunity arrives in some other asset. Others always your ultimate savings goal. Access isn’t so much of hold cash, in an effort to smooth out volatility in the equity an issue here – if anything, it may be a good idea to and bond markets. Either way, you’ll want to know the best remove the temptation to dip into the cash before place to put it, so that you can earn as much as possible on it you actually need it. for your retirement.

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Key features of cash vehicles/investments

Before we discuss some of the places in which you can hold cash, it makes sense to focus on some key features of common cash vehicles and investments. Keep in mind that the relative importance of these features depends largely on your personal financial circumstances, as well as on your emotional “feelings” about holding cash.

For example, one person may feel most comfortable with several thousand dollars in a chequing account – they don’t really care about earning interest, as long as their money is accessible with an ATM card wherever they are in the world.

On the other hand, other investors may feel strongly that they want to earn as much as they can and, if they have to “lock up” their cash for six months at a time to get a better interest rate, well, so be it. Neither of these is right or wrong – it all depends on you.

Access Interest rate Complexity/simplicity One of the principal differences between These days, it’s tough to make a Generally speaking, cash is a cash and other assets is that cash is more living from the returns offered by simpler investment than stocks, easily accessible than many other assets. cash investments – especially after bonds, real estate and other You don’t have to call up a realtor, for taxes and inflation. While most assets. You put your cash into a example, or wait until the stock market financial institutions pay you at given vehicle, an institution pays opens on Monday just because you want least a nominal rate of interest for you interest while it sits there to get hold of some money. the privilege of holding on to your and, in most cases, that’s about it. cash, that payment is likely to pale in That said, some forms of cash offer comparison to bonds, real estate and However, over the past several easier access than others. Keep your cash other income-oriented investments. years, institutions have intro- in a chequing account, for example, and duced several other options for all you need to do to get your hands So the question becomes: how much investors looking to wring a few on some of it is to find an ATM. On of a priority do you place on earn- extra dollars out of their cash the other hand, if you choose to keep ing a good return on your cash? Of holdings. GICs are the prime your cash in a Guaranteed Investment course we all want to make as much example here – there are now Certificate (GIC), you might have to money as we can on our assets. But GICs offering returns linked to wait for several months until the term when the rubber hits the road, what any one of the world’s major stock finishes before you’re able to use your are you willing to give up or trade off markets. cash. in order to get a better interest rate? Do these different vehicles To determine how important access is Always remember: higher returns intrigue you? Are you willing for you, ask yourself exactly how often come with higher risk – anyone to shop around and learn about you’re likely to need cash. Thinking who tells you differently is either these more complex investments? about your monthly expenses is a good (a) ill-informed or (b) trying to Or, are you looking for a “keep it start – how much cash do you know sell you something. And, with simple” solution – a low-main- that you need on a regular basis? Then, cash investments, most of the time tenance “set it and forget it” type think about how access makes you feel. the “risk” involves not being able of cash account? There are plenty Do you feel safer or more comfortable to access your money for a given of people in both categories, but knowing that you can have your cash period. Ultimately, it’ll be up to you it makes sense to know which whenever, wherever? to determine whether such trade- group you belong to before you offs are worth it. start looking for places to stash your cash.

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Security of principal Costs and fees The last thing anybody wants to Most of the time, cash invest- worry about is whether the bank, ments don’t cost you much credit union or other institution in the way of fees. Sure, your that’s holding their cash is in bank may charge you a couple financial trouble. Most of the time, of bucks every month for your this isn’t really an issue – most chequing privileges, but normally analysts believe that Canadian there aren’t a lot of buying/selling banks are among the safest in the commissions, management fees or world. But there’s nothing to say other transaction costs associated that it can’t happen. with most cash investments.

The good news is, many cash One cost to consider, however, is investments are protected by the cost of gaining access to your deposit insurance – chequing cash. Whether it’s something on your accounts and GICs are examples. “bucket list” that you’ve always wanted But not every cash investment to do, a great deal which you just can’t offers such protection. And, pass up or an unexpected expense in many cases, there are limits: that punches a hole in your monthly deposit insurance only protects budget, there may be times when you’ll up to a certain maximum, for need to get at your cash sooner than you example, or only if funds are kept planned. Some cash investments allow in Canadian dollars. you to access your money whenever you want. With others, you’ll have to pay for If the thought of your institution that privilege. going under makes you feel sick to your stomach, stick to those Before you choose a particular vehicle, vehicles that offer the greatest ask yourself what penalties or other costs degree of protection, and those will you incur if your plans change? Can institutions that are on a solid you get instant access to your cash in an financial footing. If you’re not all emergency? Do you feel less “secure” or that concerned about it, you’ve less “in control” of your finances if the got more options available to you. answer is no?

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Where to put your cash

When it comes to investing your cash, you’ve got options, each of them offering a different combination of the main features described above. Here’s a quick review of some of the more common ones.

Chequing/savings account High-interest savings accounts/ Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs) Investment savings accounts You probably have an everyday GICs are a mainstay of cash investing. Available at most banking account already. And for One alternative to the run-of-the-mill lending institutions (including banks, credit unions and good reason: they’re a familiar, bank savings account is the high-in- many others), they allow you to invest your cash for a convenient place to put your cash. terest savings account. As their name specific length of time – usually from three months to five And, if you choose your account suggests, these accounts pay higher years, although there are longer terms available. Generally, wisely, you can access it at little interest rates than standard chequing the longer you lock your money in for, the more interest or no cost. and savings accounts – often by a full you’ll earn on it. percentage point or more – while The downfall: in the current offering much the same level of access. The “guarantee” with GICs comes from the Canadian interest-rate environment, your Deposit Insurance Corporation, a federal Crown corpor- chequing or savings account Most of the big banks offer some form ation that backs the deposits held by individual investors probably pays next to nothing of these accounts, although they’re for up to a maximum of $100,000. For GICs, insurance in the way of interest. And even primarily intended for brokerage extends up to a maximum of an additional $100,000 for then, you may be forced to main- clients. Other accounts are offered GICs denominated in Canadian dollars with terms of tain a minimum balance if you by “non-traditional” financial up to five years. want to get paid. companies – insurance providers, alternative mortgage lenders and The big issue with GICs is access: many of them require On the other hand, round-the- even a few non-financial organizations you to “lock up” your money for the entirety of the term. clock, round-the-world access (including at least one well-known If you need your cash before then for whatever reason, (including in your chosen winter hardware retailer). Because of this, you’ll likely have to pay a significant penalty – if you’re destination) is not something to you’re unlikely to be able to visit an permitted to withdraw at all. True, many institutions sneeze at. An added plus: your actual branch – most of your dealings have responded to this criticism by offering “cashable” cash will be protected by the will be online. or redeemable GICs. But these frequently offer interest Canadian Deposit Insurance rates that aren’t a lot different from high-interest savings Corporation up to a maximum If you’re comfortable with that and accounts. of $100,000 at any one institution. you don’t need a lot of face time with That’s something which many a teller or other bank officer, these Many institutions now offer equity-linked GICs and other other forms of cash investment accounts can be a great way to get alternatives to the tried-and-true interest-generating GICs. don’t offer. a little extra bang for your savings The main attraction of these is the potential for higher bucks. On the other hand, if you returns than typical GICs. It can be a pretty tempting offer appreciate the services and products for yield-starved investors – particularly those who don’t which you find at a more traditional mind locking their cash up for several years. Ultimately, bank, chances are that you’ll be better however, these investments are based on financial deriv- served by a run-of-the-mill savings or atives and offer a much different risk profile than typical chequing account. cash vehicles. Before you put your cash into one, make sure that you understand exactly what you’re getting into.

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Money market mutual funds Short-term bonds (and bond ETFs) These are mutual funds that invest in a pool of cash In any other time, bonds wouldn’t really be considered a place to investments – typically certificates of deposit, gov- put your cash. But in the current low-interest-rate environment, ernment-backed securities such as Treasury Bills, many investors have been tempted to eke out higher returns by and short-term corporate debt. The interest rates that looking beyond GICs, savings accounts and similar vehicles. they offer are frequently higher than many other cash investments. Depending on the type which you invest It’s easy to see why: bonds (particularly short-term government in, and what account they’re held in, you may even be bonds) are often considered to be “safer” (i.e. less volatile) than able to access your money with a cheque or a debit-type stocks. And, with the rise of bond ETFs, it’s never been easier (or card that you can use at your ATM. less expensive) to buy into a well-diversified portfolio of bonds that offer returns which are, in some cases, several percentage Some years ago, money market mutual funds were one points higher than cash vehicles. of the preferred vehicles for earning interest on the cash that you held within your investment accounts. But there’s a downside: even though government bonds are far However, that popularity has waned as the current less volatile than stocks, you can still lose money on them, par- low-interest-rate environment has continued, and as ticularly in a time of rising interest rates (as we are entering right investors have become increasingly unwilling to pay now). As for corporate bonds, because their value is ultimately the fees which fund companies charge. (In fact, there tied to the financial health of an individual company, they can are several funds in which the cost of ownership is actually be just as volatile as equities. Neither of these is really actually higher than the return that they generate.) what you’re looking for in a cash investment.

Still, money market funds have a lot going for them. For this reason, it’s probably best not to consider bonds as a Because they invest in highly liquid securities issued true alternative to the cash investments discussed above. Sure, if by extremely well-financed entities (including your you need income, bonds are the place to be. But for cash, there government), you can usually be pretty sure that your are likely other alternatives that can provide more security and money is safe. Worth looking into, but chances are that easier access without the added worry of wondering whether there are other options which offer much the same the value of your holdings will drop overnight. rates at a lower cost.

One final thing to keep in mind about cash: you don’t have to make an “all-or-nothing” allocation. Feel free to portion it up into as many different vehicles as makes sense. For example, keeping your chequing account for day-to-day needs, while using a high-interest savings account to save up for next year’s stop in the sun belt, while parking your emergency fund in a one-year GIC is a perfectly viable strategy.

If you’re wondering what to do with your cash, or you’re not sure about how much cash you should have on hand, make sure to talk to a qualified financial professional. It makes sense to consider these kinds of allocation decisions from a big-picture perspective – a perspective that a professional advisor is well-trained to provide.

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by Robert MacMillan MD INSOMNIA Causes and Cures

ast night I had trouble getting to sleep, had For most young adults, unless there is an obvious cause, to get up once during the night and awoke at sleeping disorders are quite rare but, as we age, insomnia 6.00 a.m. Sound familiar? For many senior happens more frequently. Although the physiological adults, poor sleeping habits happen far too reasons for this are not well understood, there are factors Loften and statistics show that we are not alone. Almost which are well known and modifying these may, to some half of adults over the age of 60 suffer from insomnia. extent, improve the quality of our sleep. In practice, I recall the numerous times seniors would be looking for advice on how to alleviate this problem. Insomnia may be experienced as taking a long time to fall asleep, waking one or more times at night, awakening I remember as a teenager, I could go to bed on a weekend early, not being able to fall asleep again and suffering at 10.00 p.m. and my mother would have to wake me 12 fatigue and listlessness during the day because of one hours later because I was still asleep. Those days are gone. or more of these symptoms.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS INACTIVITY As we age, most of us become less active ‒ which is probably the A bright room, background noise, a room most prevalent cause of insomnia. Not only do we not get as much that’s too hot or too cold, an uncomfortable physical activity as we should, we end up with far more time bed and a restless or snoring partner are for sedentary activity and napping than when we were young. obvious factors Furthermore, we in contributing get far less outdoor to poor sleep. Remedies: Be sure that activity than we did in Remedies: Be sure and get Sometimes travel, your pillow and bed are just earlier years and this is regular exercise throughout the year. visits with family or right. Sleep in a cool, dark, usually exacerbated in Evidence shows that outside activity, hospitalization will quiet room, wearing earplugs the winter (unless we in particular, promotes better sleep. lead to insomnia if necessary. If you or your are able to participate Whether it’s walking, golfing, pickle because of one or partner snore or disturb each in the snowbird life- ball or dancing, your sleep and more differences other’s sleep, try separate style and, thereby, keep general health will probably be better. from home. rooms. more active). Physical activity promotes a good day-night pattern and, when your body is tired, you sleep better.

STRESS-RELATED CAUSES DAYTIME NAPS Sometimes, there are mental reasons as to The urge to “take a wee nap” ‒ especially following meals or after why a good sleep is unobtainable. The recent alcohol consumption ‒ is a common habit of many seniors, more loss of a loved one, depression, built-up commonly men. For someone who suffers from insomnia, this is anxiety one of the most obvious contributing factors, especially when the regarding nap is more than “forty winks” and a deep sleep is achieved. The family Remedies: Keep the late evening logic used is often, problems, hours free of stress and excitement. “Well, I didn’t get a finances or Reading or light TV may be suitable. good sleep last night, Remedies: Keep a regular sleep other issues Try relaxing techniques such as a warm so I need to take a pattern, even on weekends. If you may upset bath or a light snack before sleep. nap.” Thus begins have a problem with sleep, you should one’s sleep. Activity before going to sleep should the cycle which, for try and avoid naps altogether. If you not involve such things as violent TV many, is very hard to do nap, do it early in the day and not programs or strenuous physical work. break. in the evening, limiting your nap to 20 minutes or less.

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PHYSICAL CAUSES There are many physical conditions which can affect sleep. By far the most common interruption to sleep is the need to void. The feeling of a full bladder not only precipitates awakening, the need to get up and go to the bathroom further interrupts a restful night. For some, this may occur only rarely or once a night but for many, it may occur three or four times. The cause is either a problem of increased urinary output, inadequate bladder storage or a combination of both.

In women, the most common cause is Overactive Bladder Syndrome (OAB). This condition is characterized by four symptoms including an urgent feeling to urinate, frequent urination, the urge to urinate at night (nocturia) and sometimes incontinence.

For men (although they too can suffer from OAB), nocturia is most commonly caused by enlargement of the prostate gland (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia-BPH). In this condition, there is a non-malignant increase in the size of the gland which lies at the outflow of the bladder. With this enlargement comes an increased resistance to the flow of urine, inability for the bladder to store urine as long and, in most cases, an increasing problem with nocturia. With the urge and necessity to void at night comes the disruption of a sound sleep pattern. In addition, for both men and women the risk of a fall and a fractured hip increases with more night trips to the bathroom.

Persons suffering pain from arthritis, back pain, neuritis, Parkinson’s disease, shingles, cancer, menopause, lung disease, indigestion and other disorders frequently complain of sleeplessness. Other disorders Remedies: All of these physical conditions, if such as snoring, restless leg syndrome and sleep apnoea may affect affecting your sleep, should be reviewed with your sleep. Restless leg syndrome is a disorder that often, because of doctor. Medical advice and specific medications are unpleasant feelings in the legs, results in a strong need to move one’s useful in many of the physical disorders affecting legs. This causes poor sleep patterns and daytime fatigue. In sleep sleep, in particular those with nocturia. In addition apnoea, the gaps in breathing most commonly caused by partial to drugs that are often helpful, those persons should obstruction of the airway during the natural relaxation of the throat avoid consuming beverages after supper. Nightlights muscles during sleep are often witnessed by one’s partner. That or motion-sensor lights should be installed along finding, along with frequent wakening and snoring, can lead to inves- the route to the bathroom and the path must always tigation confirming the diagnosis. These latter two conditions require remain unobstructed. specific diagnostic tests and can both be treated, usually improving the sleep disorder.

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FOOD Ingestion of large meals, especially shortly before bed, may cause insomnia. Spicy foods and certain foods such as onions and cucumbers may cause indigestion or gas and give rise to poor sleep. For those with a hiatus hernia or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), symptoms of indigestion may occur as soon as they ALCOHOL lie down. It is Remedies: Keep your evening It is well documented that alcohol has an effect on sleep. Alcohol well known meal free of any spicy or gaseous consumed shortly before going to bed may help with falling that caffein- items and consume any caffeinated asleep, but it actually disrupts sleep patterns ‒ resulting in ated beverages beverages during the morning hours, daytime fatigue and the possible aggravation of certain health and chocolate rather than later in the day. Don’t problems such stimulates the eat large amounts of food in the late as sleep apnoea. brain. Taking evening hours, however, a small snack Alcohol consumed Remedies: The recommended caffeine after such as milk and a cookie or toast before or during maximum of two drinks a day for the noon hour helps some to sleep. If nocturia is a the dinner meal men and one drink a day for women may affect problem, liquids should be avoided. (six hours or longer should be followed and those drinks sleep. Persons with GERD or hiatus hernia before retiring) has should be consumed at or before the can be helped by specific medication. less adverse effect. evening meal. Persons with sleeping However, the sedat- problems should pay close attention ing effect of the to whether alcohol promotes their alcohol may result napping and how alcohol affects their DRUGS in an after-dinner sleep. If insomnia is a problem, one Certain prescribed drugs and even some over-the-counter snooze, which should cease alcohol consumption for medications may be a contributing factor to insomnia. also promotes a time to see if this helps. Typical drugs used by seniors such as those prescribed for insomnia. high blood pressure, the statin drugs for high cholesterol and drugs for depression may aggravate sleep Remedies: Unless prescribed otherwise, taking the medication in the morning may help. Otherwise, consult or increase your physician. There are many choices in high blood pressure medications for seniors and the least likely to nightmares disturb sleep is a benzothiazepine calcium channel blocker. In the case of treatment for mild elevations in chol- in some esterol, recent research has shown that the benefit of statins in persons over the age of 70, without evidence of persons. Over- cardiovascular disease, cannot be proven. Therefore, dietary measures may suffice in such persons who may be the-counter experiencing possible adverse side-effects, such as insomnia or muscle pain. As we age, we become less tolerant medications of drugs. More side-effects and adverse reactions between drugs can cause more than insomnia. Always be on such as the alert for symptoms which you think may be caused by medication and consult your physician. The use of glucosamine and “sleeping pills” ‒ whether prescribed or otherwise ‒ is not recommended as a long-term solution, especially in chondroitin are the elderly for whom side-effects such as thought disorders, dependency, low blood pressure, falls and anxiety known to affect are more frequent. Over-the-counter sleeping medications are often contraindicated in seniors taking other some persons. drugs. Do not take unless recommended by your physician. In healthy individuals, on a short-term basis of a week or 10 days, such medication may be indicated for a hospitalization or sudden traumatic event in one’s life…but taking more than that invites the risk of dependency.

Although we can’t all expect to sleep as well as we did when we were teens, there are many measures that we can take to help improve our sleep pattern. Consider some of these tips and consult your physician about further measures that you might take to get a good night’s sleep.

34 | www.snowbirds.org Health Pulse SUPPLEMENT SCORE CARD: Legs that go Which ones are worth your money? OUCH There’s no need to turn your medicine cabinet into a supplement store. in the night Focus on the short list backed by science: Nocturnal leg cramps ‒ you know, the stabbing pains that • Calcium: Your bones will thank you for it. So will your muscles and wake you up and cause you to yell out ‒ occur most often in nerves. And, contrary to previous reports, calcium supplements (within calf muscles, but can also seize up your thighs or feet. While recommended limits) do not appear to raise the risk of heart attacks. To the cramping generally subsides within minutes, your muscles stay on the safe side, don’t exceed 1,000 to 1,200 mg per day and skip the can stay sore for up to a day. supplements on days during which you eat a lot of calcium-rich foods. Not to be confused with restless leg syndrome, nocturnal • Vitamin D: You might call it calcium’s dance partner: it works with cramps can happen to anyone, but become more common calcium to keep bones strong and also boosts muscle strength. The jury in people older than 50. They affect men and women equally. is still out regarding its disease-prevention clout. Six-hundred to 800 IU Certain conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and cirrhosis, per day meets most people’s requirements. further bump up the risk. • Vitamin B12: This powerhouse vitamin plays a role in almost every body system. Best of all, it helps maintain brain health. 2.4 micrograms/day To prevent them or reduce their frequency should have you covered. Stay well hydrated. Aim for six to eight • Vitamin B6: You need this vitamin to form red blood cells. Aim for 1.7 glasses of water per day. mg/day if you’re a man and 1.5 mg/day if you’re a woman. Wear properly fitted shoes.

Before deciding on supplements and doses, talk to your doctor. Gently stretch your leg muscles before going to sleep. All in one? Keep bedding loose around your feet to It may be tempting to get all of the nutrients that you need in one swallow, avoid putting pressure on your toes. but there’s no evidence that multivitamins boost health or prevent illness. That said, many doctors continue to recommend them, chiefly because Vitamin E, vitamin B complex and magnesium may have a they ensure a minimum of vitamin D. If you choose this route, go for a benefit, while anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve the lingering brand that meets or approaches your daily requirements for key nutrients. muscle pain. Your doctor may suggest other treatment options. Source: www.berkeleywellness.com Source: my.clevelandclinic.org

Skin cancer hot spots Skin cancer of all types can occur anywhere on the body, but some places are more vulnerable than others.

▶▶Face: The sun-exposed face tops the list of skin cancer sites, with the nose being a prime target. Fortunately, most facial skin cancers are the highly curable basal or squamous varieties. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. ▶▶Hands: Watch for small firm nodules, scaling or crusty skin, or cuts that don’t seem to heal ‒ all possible signs of squamous cell cancer. ▶▶Neck: Along with basal and squamous cell cancers, melanoma may develop here, especially in men. While more serious, melanoma is ▶▶Trunk: In men, melanomas occur most frequently on the chest or highly treatable if caught early. back. Look for spots that are becoming larger, darker, or uneven.

▶▶Scalp: Most scalp cancer occurs in balding men, but a full head ▶▶Legs: Women are most likely to find melanoma on their legs, espe- of hair doesn’t guarantee that it won’t happen. Ask your barber or cially below the knee. When doing a skin check, don’t forget the hair stylist to watch for spots. For added protection, buy a couple of backs of your legs. statement hats ‒ and wear them. Sources: www.cancer.org/cancer/skin-cancer.html CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 35 Health Feature

Stay smart about

What’s changed, what to know, what to do

by Gabrielle Bauer

he Zika virus made women face the greatest danger of Toronto. Indeed, the study worldwide headlines in from Zika, which can cause also assessed 41 former dengue 2016, especially while microcephaly (underdevel- patients and didn’t find any TBrazil ‒ the epicentre of the out- oped head and brain) in their complications in this group. break ‒ was hosting the Olympic newborns. “Our results reinforce the need Games. Then summer ended, the for continued vigilance.” mosquitoes that carried the virus This doesn’t mean that Canadians left the scene and Zika became past the child-bearing years can Brian Goldman, the Toronto old news. ignore the threat. In a recent study emergency physician who hosts of 41 Canadian travellers who the popular CBC radio show But summer is upon us again. acquired Zika in the Americas, White Coat, Black Art, couldn’t While Zika headlines may not symptoms were all over the agree more. “We think of dengue rival those of last year, the disease map: along with the expected as a serious illness and Zika as itself has survived the winter and aches and rashes, two subjects mild but, from what I’ve seen, has even spread northward. And, developed a complication called it’s the other way around,” he if a new Canadian study is any Guillain-Barré syndrome (a says. What’s more, “The risk of indication, it’s not just pregnant potentially life-threatening con- contracting Zika ‒ and getting women who need to worry about dition causing paralysis) and one complications ‒ may be greater it. got viral meningitis. in older people because immune systems weaken as people age.” Zika spreads to people through “We were surprised to find these the bite of an infected mosquito complications in such a small In Dr. Goldman’s view, and can also be transferred group of travellers, given their “Canadians may not be as well through sexual contact. Most rarity in other travel-related ill- prepared as they should be, given affected people experience only nesses,” says infectious diseases the shifting course of the out- mild, flu-like symptoms, and specialist Andrea Boggild, the break.” Last year, Zika marched some may not even realize that study’s lead investigator and through Central America and the they have the virus. Pregnant a professor at the University Caribbean. This year has seen

36 | www.snowbirds.org Health Feature

local outbreaks as far north as But there’s another threat to Florida and Texas. (Other states consider: What if different types have also reported Zika cases, but of mosquitoes could carry the transmission occurred outside of virus? At the end of last mosquito the country.) season, Dr. Hunter put this idea to the test. Unfortunately, “it was Why would Zika settle in new a very dry season and we couldn’t parts of the world? “Researchers collect as many mosquito species believe the disease spreads as hoped,” she recalls. Only one of most readily to the warm places the species which she tested had where Aedes aegypti, the mos- a modest transmission success, An ounce of prevention… quito thought to carry the virus, around 2%. “This bodes well for There’s no vaccine for Zika yet (though scientists can thrive,” says Dr. Goldman. us Canadians, though our sample are working on it). In the meantime, here’s how to This may explain why Zika has sizes were small and we didn’t test found its way to several parts of every local species.” protect yourself when travelling to a Zika hot spot: Southeast Asia. For the time being, Dr. Hunter ▶▶ Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved, Which raises the question: Could aligns with Dr. Goldman’s cau- loose-fitting clothing and a hat. Zika ever migrate to Canada? tious stance. “We’re not as safe Fiona Hunter, a biology profes- as some would think,” she says, ▶▶ Use insect repellent on exposed skin. sor at Brock University in St. noting that “we have witnessed Catharines, Ont., has devoted the northward expansion of a lot ▶▶ Apply a permethrin insecticide to months of lab time to answering of different fly species, including clothing and travel gear for greater that question. “If you listen to the different types of mosquitoes.” news, you hear over and over that On the plus side, Dr. Boggild protection. we’re safe here because we don’t maintains that “the risk of acquir- have the Aedes aegypti mosquito,” ing Zika in the Caribbean is lower ▶▶ Use outdoor netting for events such she says. But that’s not quite true: than it was last year.” as barbecues and picnics, when biting Last year, both Aedes aegypti and activity may be intense. Aedes albopictus (another good So what does all of this mean for Zika carrier) were collected in Canadians travelling to Zika- ▶▶ Protect living areas from mosquito Southwest Ontario. “It’s possible prone areas? Assuming that entry: stay in enclosed or well- the species have overwintered you’re not pregnant, “just use and their populations may standard precautions against screened spaces; if this is not possible, increase,” she explains. This insects when you’re outdoors,” use a bed net. doesn’t mean that an outbreak says Dr. Boggild [see sidebar]. is on the way: “The mosquitoes Or put the picnic on hold and ▶▶ Avoid sexual intercourse or use would have to feed on someone splurge on a Michelin-starred condoms during the trip. who has Zika virus and then feed restaurant instead. on a local human about 10 days later to infect them.”

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 37 Leisure The Rise and Fall of Bridge Once the most popular card game on the planet, today it’s fraught with a damaging image and debated relevance. by Donna Carter

t has taken decades for the worldwide popularity of bridge to diminish yet, despite its decline, the game is far from dead. Granted, its global population of loyalists is markedly smaller now than it once was, but passion remains high Iamong those still “turning tricks.” In spite of game faithfuls, some say that bridge has simply gone out of fashion, however, various studies see it otherwise. It’s commonly believed that the game’s change in status is a multifaceted shift wherein no single issue can be named as the direct cause. The question, of course, is its future. If bridge is to maintain traction, or even gain ground, there are difficult challenges to overcome including its unfavourable reputation as distinctly an “old person’s game.” While the assumption is harsh, it is nevertheless based on irrefutable observation. Scan the room at almost any club and what’s typically seen is a sea of mostly “white cap” seniors – a clear sign that the altered state of the game is generational in nature.

The three local clubs to which I belong are good examples. Consider my friend and fellow player Josephine, who repeatedly states that she would play five days a week if the opportunity existed. This spirited, sharp-witted woman whom everyone calls Jo has been playing bridge for at least seven decades. She plays three days a week and remains a card-savvy force to be reckoned with, notwithstanding the fact that she is 93 years old. Moreover, Jo is not the only nonagenarian member of my clubs. Others include Jim, Olive, Muriel, Elsie and Edith, who all also share an unwavering passion for the game. While this group generally tops the upper age bracket of people who regularly play, in the majority of clubs across Canada and around the world, players are often in their sixties, seventies and eighties with a smattering in their fifties. Therein lies the problem. It’s difficult to dispute the claim that bridge is an old person’s game when there is little evidence to counter it. However, the problem goes even deeper. It’s obvious that the elder population of players cannot perpetuate the game forever and, seemingly, there are insufficient new joiners to sustain it as it once was. For the most part, bridge clubs worldwide are bemoaning the absence of young players. Take my own clubs, for instance, at which almost all members are over the age of 65, with many in their seventies and a waning percentage in their eighties and nineties.

The demographics were not always thus. There was a long stretch of time when playing bridge (or some form of it) was a favourite pastime of adults of all ages.

38 | www.snowbirds.org Leisure

In fact, the game traces its roots back to the 16th-century emergence of trick-taking card games such as whist. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, whist was on a transformation path that led to the bridge game which we generally know today. Since the late 1800s, it has largely been accepted as the principal intellectual card game in existence. It has been lauded by such famous aficionados as author W. Somerset Maugham, who once said, “bridge is the most entertaining and intelligent card game man has so far devised.” No less enthusiastic is American billionaire business mogul Warren Buffet, who once stated, “bridge is such a sensational game that I wouldn’t mind being in jail if I had three cellmates who were decent players and who were willing to keep the game going 24 hours a day.” Buffett, who is currently 86 years old, also said that playing bridge is like running a business. It’s about hunting, chasing, nuance, fellow players were extremely patient as my continue to remain hopeful. My 12-year-old deception, reward, danger, co-operation and, learning curve developed, but not all. Sharp grandson is an avid video gamer, but I can on a good day, victory. rebukes cut deeply and can, in some instan- still interest him in playing a game of chess ces, sadly result in wannabe players walking and the leap from chess to bridge is not an Here’s my personal considered opinion of away. Wisely, some clubs have enacted a “zero unreasonable one. Nevertheless, interesting the game: bridge offers unrivalled attributes tolerance for criticism” policy which, if fully youngsters in the game that has been loved by that include mental challenge, team work, enforced, makes it far less likely that a newbie so many over the centuries is clearly a tall order entertainment, versatility, development skills, player will leave the game due to berating. in the face of overwhelming technical distrac- strategic planning, the perverseness of chance tions. In addition, without visible role models, and universal socializing. So if the game is that However, like many others, I believe that there young people will likely continue to regard wonderful – and I believe that it is – some is a more significant and obvious reason why bridge as a game which their grandparents might ask why people are not joining bridge the young generation has, for the most part, play. Furthermore, the decline is not entirely clubs in droves. Among some of the reasons little or no interest in bridge. Simply put – it’s driven by young people. Working adults are advanced is that bridge is shown to have a steep technology – wherein computer and video occupied with making a living, leaving little or learning curve. A person can fairly quickly games have become the new normal. They no time for card playing, especially a game that learn the basic mechanics of the game, but to provide instant gratification in a multitude requires a high level of devotion and patience. achieve any degree of mastery usually requires of gaming environments that offer surprises, a much-longer period – even years. There are challenges, stimulation and travel into alter- In spite of the influences that have contributed more than 635 billion possible bridge hands nate worlds filled with fantasy and rewards to its reputation as an old person’s pastime, it’s and a daunting assortment of approaches, for skill. Young people and adults alike (a arguably premature to suggest that it’s “game stratagems and techniques for playing them. 2014 study done by the U.S. Entertainment over” for bridge. My personal view is that it In addition, some have said that learning the Software Association cited the average age will not go into a continuous free-fall, but bidding language of bridge is like learning to of a video game player as 35) have bought that its popularity will never again reach the speak Russian. heavily into video gaming, a phenomenon level of that long period during which it was that has easily eclipsed card games – including universally accepted as the most popular game Moreover, some seasoned players have little bridge. Actually, player numbers began falling on the planet. Maybe it will continue to be or no patience for the undeveloped skills of off long before the presence of computers and regarded as an old folks’ game and leave it new members. Criticism and intolerance video games. By 1960, when television sets had at that. Maybe the younger generation will can sometimes be credited with new players become commonplace in most households, the connect with online bridge (deemed to be a abandoning the game forever. I confess that popularity of parlour bridge began showing boon to beginners) since it’s both fast-paced I came close to giving it up myself. I had signs of decline. By extension, club bridge and user-friendly. Maybe international bridge previously played for only six months before started following the same trend over the next organizations will step up youth-oriented pro- work-related obligations led to a 30-year decade and beyond. grams. Whatever the case, there’s no crystal hiatus from the game. Consequently, when ball to predict how the cards will fall for this I resumed play three decades later, I was a It’s unclear how the future of bridge will shake finest of finest games. definite neophyte – and it wasn’t easy. Most down in numbers and longevity, however, I

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 39 Fitness by Jennifer Cox

UNIQUE WAYS TO GET EXERCISE THAT YOU MAY NEVER HAVE THOUGHT OF We all know how important it is to stay physically fit. But not all of us are wired to go to the gym (regularly), or to seek out exercise on our own (with a home gym). Sometimes, we need something else to inspire us to do something physical, something that we find fun, exciting or challenging.

So here are a few unique ways to get exercise – and these are definitely not your “conventional” activities.

Flying kites

A childhood pastime that provides great benefits for adults later in life, kite flying will get you moving (and may just incite some giggles too, as you have lots of fun watching your kite cut through the air). Kites that are more simply designed will require less work Tap dancing to fly them, meaning that you’ll just need a quick sprint to get them up and then some People who love music and socializing simple cardio (walking or jogging) to keep with other like-minded people should seek ‘em going. More intricate kites could require out a tap-dance class! Once you get those two hands to control them, meaning that tap shoes on, you won’t be able to hold you’ll need a bit more muscle strength to back tipping and tapping across that dance keep a handle on them. However, that also floor. Even if you have never put on a pair means more physical benefits for you. Hula Hooping of tap shoes, beginners as well as experts can find a place in a tap-dancing class. Tap Sure, you spent hours playing with your hula dancing helps with some cardiovascular hoop as a kid, and now you can “play” again. conditioning, as well as improving strength, Hula hooping is a tremendous way of staying flexibility and co-ordination. It will build in shape, as it burns approximately seven up leg and foot muscles, and could also help calories per minute and it works out that with flexibility in the ankles, knees and hips. ticker! It also helps to strengthen your core and improve flexibility. So get out that plastic loopy loop and start hula-ing!

Forza (Japanese sword fighting)

We’re guessing that you’ve never heard of this, however, it’s catching on across the country and beyond as a unique and Metal detecting exciting way to get some exercise. This is a workout for your core Yep, hunting for buried treasure is a fantastic way to stay in that is based on samurai swordship, but don’t worry: you won’t shape (and maybe find a few gold coins too!). You can rent a be working with actual swords. Instead, most classes use a metal detector from certain beachfront companies, or buy one broomstick or wiffle-ball bat for their classes. Engaging (if you so desire), and then it’s time to hit the beach. As you walk and definitely out of the ordinary, this form of up and down the shore “detecting,” you’ll be getting in some exercise will have you coming back for more cardiovascular activity while enjoying the crash of the waves and and more (and, you can really battle that salty sea air. Tone your muscles and decrease stress, plus, you bulge!). never know what you’ll discover beneath the sand’s surface.

40 | www.snowbirds.org by Jennifer Cox Longevity LONGEVITY AND EDUCATION is there a link?

f you have a university degree, does it mean that you will live longer than someone who Idoes not? According to myriad studies conducted in the last seven years, the short answer is, yes.

Researchers have found that there’s a link between higher education and a higher life expect- ancy. Two years ago, a study by researchers at the University of Colorado Denver, New York University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill estimated the number of deaths that can be linked to differences in education, and found that vari- ation in the risk of death across education levels has widened considerably. The findings also suggested that lacking education may be as deadly as being of education is a strong predictor college compared to people with frowned upon,” he said. “But we a current, rather than a former of longevity due to many factors, a high school education or less, have not done the same thing smoker. “In public health policy, including higher income and according to David Cutler, dean for the less educated. That’s the we often focus on changing health social status, healthier behav- of social sciences at Harvard. And big thing that’s really killing us.” behaviours such as diet, smoking iours and improved social and the gap is growing, they reported. Despite billions of dollars spent and drinking,” said Virginia psychological well-being. Cutler and Ellen Meara, assistant on warning against smoking, Chang, associate professor of professor of health-care policy less-educated persons, especially, public health at NYU’s Steinhardt Deaths from cardiovascular dis- at the Harvard Medical School, continue to smoke. School of Culture, Education, ease played a greater role than found that persons with at least and Human Development and deaths from cancer in these one year of college increased their So, while it seems that education College of Global Public Health, growing gaps in mortality and lifespan by nearly a year-and-a- does have an overall impact and associate professor of popu- improvements in survival for half from 1980 to 1990. But those on how long we live, it’s not lation health at NYU School of well-educated people, likely due with a high school diploma or less simply because we didn’t seek Medicine. “Education – which to advances in the prevention gained only about six months. out a university degree that our is a more fundamental, upstream and treatment of cardiovascular lifespan might decrease. Other driver of health behaviours and disease among those with more However, the article went on to things come into play. Instead, disparities – should also be a key education (Steinhardt School at state, what’s killing people isn’t it’s the socio-economic factors element of U.S. health policy.” NYU). necessarily a lack of education, that make education a factor in More than 10 per cent of U.S. but such fundamental issues determining longevity. However, adults ages 25 to 34 do not have ABC News cited another study, as smoking, obesity and inact- it never hurts to keep on learning a high school degree, while more done by Harvard University, ivity – and all those things are (plus, it may add a few months to than a quarter have some college which found a “stunning” correla- reflected in the level of education. your life). but no bachelor’s degree. Yet, tion between the longer lifespan “Smoking among the better-edu- studies show that a higher level of people with at least one year of cated people is very low, very

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 41 Golf

Make Time for Nine

“Time is on my side, yes it is. Time is on my side, yes it is.” – The Rolling Stones

Despite what Mick Jagger sang on golf course more than once a week? was at the PGA Merchandise Show the Stones’ classic 1964 ballad, these Cut the number of holes in half and in Orlando, Fla. and The Golden Bear days, time – as we can all attest – is you cut the time spent strolling the was one of the keynote speakers to not often on your side. Between going fairways in half too. Sounds like a launch this annual meeting of the to watch your grandkids’ soccer win-win, doesn’t it? You gain time in minds of the golf industry. Here’s or baseball games or dance recital other areas of your life; yet, you still what Nicklaus said, offering one to barbecuing with friends at the get to enjoy a round of golf. way to try to boost participation cottage, or just filling in a lazy after- in the sport: “We should consider noon escaping with a book, fitting So here’s my proposal for you this the possibility of making 12 holes in a round of golf in the summer is season: take time to play nine. In the standard round…eventually, it often more challenging than the rest Canada, there are 868 nine-hole would be accepted because it makes of the year. courses. These tracks account for sense in people’s lives.” Originally, the almost 37% of the country’s total Old Course at St. Andrews (always One of the biggest reasons people supply – outnumbering 18-hole referred to as the home of golf) had mention when it comes to why supply in two provinces. Canada also only 12 holes. they don’t play more golf is time. boasts three six-hole courses and nine No matter what the stats say, it’s the 12-hole tracks. Closer to home, one golf course one which I believe makes the most decided to try out this model to sense. Whether you are a teenager Personally, I’ve always felt that 12 great success: Derrydale Golf Club or a retiree, who has time these holes is the ideal number. I’m not the in Mississauga. Owner Jim Holmes days to spend five-plus hours on a only one. A number of years ago, I heeded Nicklaus’s words and decided

42 | www.snowbirds.org Golf

By David McPherson

This summer also marks Canada’s 150th birthday ‒ or the sesquicentennial anniversary of Canadian Confederation. There’s no better time to get out and play nine, 12 or 18 holes. We are lucky to have an abundance of golf courses from which to choose. Did you know that our country contains seven per cent of the world’s golf facilities? At more than 2,300 public and private course options, that’s a lot of choice. From coast to coast, there are few other countries that rival ours for golfer rates per capita.

Golf is just one of the 150 activities which ParticipACTION references in its Canada 150 Play List. So, while you are playing nine holes over the next couple of months, use this time to also celebrate our nation’s milestone birthday and introduce a friend to one of the greatest games humans have invented, or take part in a golf-related activity. Visit the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame & Museum at Glen Abbey in Oakville, Ont. Attend one of our national opens such as the RBC Canadian Open (also at Glen Abbey this year from July 24-30) or the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open – held this year in our nation’s capital at the Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club (August 24-27). Or simply hit the road and try out a new course across this great country of ours.

to put his theory into practice. Flash the early evenings after school (once Finally, summer offers longer days. back to 2010. The club sold 33 acres my homework was complete) and if As Mick sang, time is on our side. to a real estate developer, reducing the course was not busy, I would play From late June until the dog days of the family-owned, 18-hole executive six holes since, after the fourth hole, summer in August, we gain more course to nine holes. Regular players you could skip across the fairway and daylight hours to enjoy the great did not react well to this change and play 8 and 9. The circuit would take outdoors before the sun sets. What rounds fell. Holmes decided to take less than 90 minutes. I look back on this means is that you can tee off the remaining portions of the former these nights wandering the fairways later and still get in nine holes. Or, course that were not sold to resurrect and the rough by myself as some of you can have an early dinner and three holes – turning Derrydale into a my favourite golf memories. then squeeze in a loop around your 12-hole facility. The result: increased favourite course. The choices are rounds and revenue and happier Many courses offer specials for nine endless. So are the excuses for not clients. Golfers can play in 2.5 hours and dine. So why not make some taking time for nine. I don’t want to and the price is right, especially for memories this summer on – and off hear them. Your tee time waits. seniors (anyone over 60) who pay just ‒ the course by planning an evening $24 for a round. out with your spouse or friends. Thanks, Mick. I understand what you Personally, I can’t think of a better were singing about now. Your lyrics Growing up at Westmount Golf & night out than getting some exercise, were not so far-fetched. Like most Country Club in Kitchener, Ont., I then sharing some laughs, good food things in life, it’s all about perspective. was spoiled. I lived just a sand wedge and conversation with friends and Time is on our side if we make from this private course so, often in family on a patio somewhere. time for nine.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 43 Book Review

THE NATCHEZ BURNING TRILOGY (Natchez Burning, The Bone Tree and Mississippi Blood) Robert Wiersema by Greg Iles

ississippi writer Greg Iles had It’s not, strictly speaking, necessary to read already published three novels the first Cage trilogy before reading the featuring Penn Cage (among a second, but you definitely should. Not only numberM of other best-selling titles) by the are they terrific reads in their own right, the time of the 2011 car accident which almost first three novels introduce readers to both claimed his life. The first Penn Cage trilogy the complicated relationships and social pol- (The Quiet Game, Turning Angel and The itics of the community as a whole, as well as Devil’s Punchbowl) followed the story of to characters who will appear again in the former prosecutor-turned-novelist Cage, Natchez Burning trilogy. Chief among these who returned to Natchez, Mississippi – are Caitlin Masters ‒ a crusading journalist his hometown – with his young daughter and Cage’s on-and-off girlfriend ‒ and Cage’s following the death of his wife. The first parents, especially his father Thomas, a retired Penn Cage novels didn’t shy from history; and beloved doctor noted for his treatment of it would be impossible for a writer raised in both black and white patients during a time the American South, and still living there, to when even medical services were culturally avoid questions of race and violence. These segregated. issues run through those books as a minor chord, present, but not the focus of the stories TheNatchez Burning trilogy revolves around which saw Cage confronting corruption, a murder trial. Thomas Cage is accused of drugs and false accusations both in and out murdering his former nurse Viola Turner, of court. a black woman who worked for him in the 1960s and with whom he had an affair. Turner In the years of recovering from his injuries was terminally ill and returned to Natchez to (which were so severe that he spent more die, possibly with the assistance of Thomas than a week in an induced coma, and which Cage. Cage’s father, however, refuses to defend cost him his right leg below the knee), Iles himself or to have his son defend him. Rather wrote another trilogy featuring Cage. The than waiting on the sidelines, Penn begins to accident galvanized Iles, who had already investigate not only Turner’s death, but also begun planning the fourth Penn Cage novel. the circumstances of her life and the history In the wake of his near-death experience, of Natchez, most crucially: what happened in he decided to confront the racist past ‒ and the 1960s, why did Viola have to flee Natchez present ‒ of his beloved South head-on. and why did she return?

The result is a powerful trio of books Natchez( The novels, which are rooted in the domestic, The Natchez Burning trilogy is a powerful, Burning, The Bone Tree and Mississippi Blood) are shockingly expansive, incorporating a disturbing, breathtaking piece of fiction. It which comprise a trilogy in name only; in history of racial violence in the South over the succeeds as both a straight-ahead thriller practice, they read as a single, epic, 2,000-page last six decades ‒ everything from the legacy (there are attacks and near escapes aplenty, novel. Be warned: you’ll want to have all three of school integration to the political assassin- and no one is safe from harm) and as a books on hand before you start reading. You ations of the 1960s to the racist violence and critical examination of a world ‒ and world won’t want to even pause between books. The politicking in the wake of Hurricane Katrina views ‒ which will be alien to most readers, a second trilogy is a stunning achievement, a in New Orleans. The world which Iles reveals pulse-pounding read and a chilling view into fusing of fast-paced storytelling with a deeper is startling in its secrets and the lengths to a nation’s darkest shadows. It’s an unforget- sense of history, its secrets and its shames. which some will go in order to keep them, table reading experience, and one and in its casual bloodthirstiness and racism. which you should not miss.

44 | www.snowbirds.org Gardening

Judith Adam

Home ground With a sunny Canadian summer ahead, thoughts turn to this year’s garden. Hopefully the Moss rose ‘Etna’ work will be minimal, the rewards sweet and all problems resolved. Here are some thoughts Photo: Photo: Brendan Adam-Zwelling on keeping the lawn green, the flowers blooming and the home landscape healthy.

Drought-proofing the lawn drought-proof lawn that will never go brown have strong inbred disease resistance, such Most lawns are a mix of soft Kentucky and dormant in summer heat and drought. as the family of Knock Out landscape roses. bluegrass and resilient ryegrass and fescue The hatching of mid-summer Japanese bee- varieties. You can keep your water bill down tles can spell disaster for tender rose petals, and strengthen the lawn’s resistance to hot Summer annual and but early- and once-blooming antique roses and dry weather by regulating irrigation and perennial flowers (such as moss rose ‘Etna’) produce all of their mowing practices. Keep flowering plants blooming by dead- perfumed blooms in an impressive, six-week heading spent flowers weekly, before they display in early summer, finishing just as the Instead of short periods of daily irrigation, begin putting energy into forming seeds. A beetles emerge with voracious appetites. If ear- water twice a week for extended periods of weekly pass through the garden to remove wigs are chewing rose foliage, remove mulch time (30 to 45 minutes). This will allow mois- deadheads can extend the blooming period of and debris from the soil surface where they ture to reach deep into the root zone and keep perennials by two weeks, and will encourage hide and breed. Roses can be fertilized twice grass roots from baking in heated soil near summer annuals to rapidly produce fresh in a growing season, and will produce blooms the surface. Watering in the morning or early growth. Remove decayed or injured stems for approximately four to six weeks after each evening, when wind is low and direct sun is off and foliage to prevent infection of healthy application. If your roses are ever-blooming the lawn, will prevent excessive evaporation plant tissues. Avoid fungus diseases by thin- (from late spring through early autumn), plan and help deliver moisture to the root zone. ning crowded stems, thereby improving air on making the final fertilizer application in circulation through plants. late July. Mow turf grass high, allowing it to stand 2-1/2 to 3 inches tall (6 to 8 centimetres). The longer For non-stop flower displays, feed summer Gardens are home to many kinds of soft-bod- the blades, the longer the roots, and they’ll be annuals every second week, using a water-sol- ied sucking insects, such as white flies hud- able to reach cool soil and moisture below. uble fertilizer with a higher middle number dling on the undersides of leaves, and green Mow every 5 to 7 days and allow the clippings (such as 15-30-15) to promote root growth or black aphids lining up along stems for their to remain on the lawn to mulch the crowns and bud formation. Flowering plants in con- meals. Aphid colonies can easily be removed of grass plants against hot sun. tainers should receive a half-strength mixture by sliding fingers up the stems to dislodge of fertilizer to prevent burning their roots. them (with a gloved hand for the squeamish), Nitrogen lawn fertilizer requires consistently or with a stiff spray of water. White flies are moist soil and moderate temperatures to be more difficult to keep off the back of leaves, useful. Withhold fertilizer during the summer Pests and diseases but won’t like a twice-weekly splash of insecti- apply it in September through mid-October, Garden fungus diseases are difficult to control, cidal soap. when cool air temperatures and soil moisture because they are greatly advanced before you are more reliable. notice any symptoms on stems, leaves and/ With just a bit of preparation and strategic or flowers. Many hybrid tea rose leaves are problem-solving, it’s going to be a relaxed and Next spring, over-seed with white clover chronically afflicted with black spot fungus. rewarding summer garden season! seed (Trifolium repens) to guarantee a Replace these with shrub rose varieties that

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 45 Food & Drink

Gnocchi

by Shari Darling For more information on wine and food, go to www.sharidarling.com

love Italian dumplings, called Roman gnocchi, semolina flour dried style from our local Italian If you want to sip brut sparkling gnocchi, all year-round and is the main ingredient and the deli. I love Gnocchi di Patate Al wine or a crisp, dry white wine especially in the summer. little dumplings are baked and Tartufo! This is truffled gnocchi with dinner, prepare a sauce IThey are a nice alternative to tossed with butter and cheese made with potato. The truffles of extra virgin olive oil, fresh pasta and can be either boiled or tomato/meat sauce. Potato add a lovely earthy flavour. lemon juice and salty cheese. like spaghetti or baked. While gnocchi is made from mashed Add asparagus. The tanginess of the classic version (pronounced potatoes, egg and flour. Sweet Because the prosciutto and fresh lemon juice and saltiness “NYO”-key) is made from mostly potato can also be used. These cheese are salty, either a crisp of the cheese demand a light, potato, gnocchi can be made dumplings are often tossed with dry white or full-bodied red will crisp white wine. Wines that will from any ingredients that can butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano work with this dish. work with this summer gnocchi be formed into dough. or gorgonzola cream sauce. include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Cream-puff dough is used to When well made, gnocchi are Gris, Pinot Grigio and dry In the winter and autumn, gnoc- make Parisian gnocchi, which like little fluffy clouds. Place the Riesling. Vermentino, Verdicchio chi tastes delicious when smoth- are then pan fried and tossed frozen dumplings in a pot of and Soave are Italian whites that ered in a heavier blue cheese or with fresh herbs. Ricotta, flour rolling, salted water. When the will also complement spring cui- meat sauce. But in the spring, and egg are used to make ricotta dumplings float to the surface, sine. At the LCBO, Verdicchio you can prepare the dumplings gnocchi. Nowadays, at the local drain them and prepare the sauce can range from $10 to $30 per with lighter ingredients such supermarket, gluten-free gnocchi accordingly. bottle. So choose one that will as chicken broth with a drizzle made from rice or other glu- harmonize with the quality and of olive oil, light cream, fresh ten-free grains can be purchased. The nutritional value of gnocchi occasion of your spring cuisine. asparagus, fresh lemon juice and depends on many variables, fresh chives. Finish the resulting Now a full-time caregiver to my including the ingredients from I like a light cream-and-cheese dish in freshly grated Pecorino husband Jack (with Alzheimer’s), which they are made (such as sauce, which complements both cheese. Delicious! I simply do not have time to potato, ricotta, semolina flour white and red wines. Here’s a prepare gnocchi from scratch or rice) and the type of sauce super simple recipe: Several types of gnocchi exist, at home. I purchase these little used. Whole-grain versions will such as Roman-style, potato, dumplings frozen at the super- have three times the fibre as any Parisian, ricotta and others. In market or, sometimes, I buy the gnocchi made from white flour.

46 | www.snowbirds.org Food & Drink

Gnocchi with Green Peas, Prosciutto, and Cherry Tomatoes: Serves 4

1 lb. gnocchi (dried or frozen) 1 cup light cream 2 cloves garlic, minced Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi to sauce pan and toss together Add gnocchi. When dumplings float to for 2 minutes on medium heat. Add 1 cup frozen green peas the top of the boiling water, they are ready, Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino until ½ cup sliced cherry tomatoes about 4 minutes. Drain. sauce is thickened. Divide between plates and garnish each with freshly ground black 3 tbsp. butter Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, heat cream pepper and more cheese. ¼ lb. sliced prosciutto with garlic cloves, frozen peas and cherry tomatoes. Simmer for about 3 minutes. Suggested Wine: Oregon or Ontario Pinot ¼ cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese Whisk in butter to incorporate well. Add Noir to taste prosciutto (cut into strips) and simmer Parmigiano-Reggiano for garnish for another 5 minutes until all ingredients are tender, warmed-through and well Freshly ground black pepper for garnish combined.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 47 CSA Online by Andrew Moore-Crispin

The Pace of Change

e’ve been talking in this column for quite a As your last yard sale or charitable donation may attest, while now. Granted, the conversation is a bit technology has a shelf life. It’s effectively disposable. It’s one-sided. In the time I’ve had the pleasure just a factor of the speed at which things change. Moore’s Wof working with the CSA writing this Online column, Law calls for about a doubling of transistors and, therefore, we’ve discussed everything from the latest and greatest of computing power every two years. Moore put this law coming out of the big tech-trade shows to holiday gift forward in 1965. It has yet to be proven untrue. While guides to smartphone buyer’s guides. We’ve looked at there’s a lot that a two-year-old laptop, smartphone, set- laptops, tablets, phones, even video games. top box, tablet or whatever can do, there’s a heck of a lot more that the newest model is capable of. So I feel as if we can be honest with each other. Consumer tech is kind of the opposite of green. In terms of pure progress, it’s good news. The pace of change does leave a lot of obsolete tech in its wake, though. It’s a tough truth to accept, given how the same technology can improve our lives, but it’s a truth nonetheless.

A Little Perspective

Back when the iPhone 6 was first released, it was reported that more than 500,000 iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus devices were flying off Taiwanese assembly lines daily. Even with better than half-a-million units being made every single day for a time, both models were in short supply on store shelves in those early days.

That was more than two years ago. Two product cycles. Past data suggests that we should expect a new iPhone in September of this year.

Remember Moore’s Law.

So what happens to all of those old phones? In this example, there’s still plenty of life left; an iPhone 6 can be sold, passed down or otherwise handed on. iPhone 5? iPhone 4? The iPhone 3G turned eight in July of this year. Good luck selling one of those to anyone other than a Given how closely Apple is watched and, in some cases, mirrored collector. by other consumer tech companies, we can hope that others will follow suit. One day, many of the raw materials which we’ve already Keeping with this example, Apple is beginning to reckon with its collectively pulled out of the earth can be saved and put back into own impact. On Earth Day this year, the company promised ‒ on circulation in the next phone, TV, laptop, whatever. The sooner the the record ‒ that it will one day use exclusively recycled materials in better. its products...albeit without a plan to reveal or a specific timeline to which it was ready to commit. So where do we come in as the people who buy all this stuff?

48 | www.snowbirds.org CSA Online

Reduce Recycle Given the usual subject matter of this column, it may be hypocritical When a gadget is truly at the end of its useful life, whether it’s broken, of me to suggest that we could all do with buying less consumer tech. not holding a charge or just plain obsolete, the easy thing to do is to I love this stuff and, if you regularly read the CSA Online column toss it into the garbage. There’s a better way. Less than 16 per cent of (thanks!), it’s fair to assume that you feel the same way. Maybe it’s not e-waste was recycled in 2014, according to a United Nations University about buying less so much as it is about buying smarter. Maybe it’s as report. The outlook might be a little better today, but I can’t imagine simple as supporting companies that focus on sustainable practices that it’s by much. and ethical manufacturing. Maybe we just need to treat every buying decision as if it’s a big one. In some jurisdictions, there’s an environmental fee applied when you purchase something like a TV. This fee is collected to fund local landfill diversion and recycling programs of which we should all avail Reuse ourselves. In the case of cellphones, often the carrier will take a device If a gadget has outlived its usefulness, it can continue its life as a that’s reached the end of its useful life and send it off to be recycled. hand-me-down. If you or someone you know is so inclined, an older Increasingly, gadget disposal and recycling boxes are appearing in smartphone can be turned into something new and useful. Just Google major chains. IKEA and Best Buy immediately come to mind. We “uses for an old smartphone” to see some simple, smart ideas. just need to seek them out.

There are numerous charities that will take older, but still useful In the end, we vote for companies and the way they do business with tech and give it a new lease on life. Not-for-profit second-hand and our spending dollars. We choose what we support and what we don’t. thrift stores are an obvious and simple bet. A quick online search for donating whatever tech item you are trying to pass on will turn We’re not passive consumers. We’re customers and we have a say up myriad others. in things.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 49 CSA Application Sign up five new members and become a Key Member of the CSA! Let us grow together The CSA is constantly looking for new members, just like you. Sign up five new members and get your next annual membership FREE. Download five applications from our website at www.snowbirds.org or photocopy the application below. Have five of your travelling friends become new and valued members of your association. Your efforts will be honoured with: •• Free Annual Membership •• Special Key Member Pin •• Your name published in CSANews 1-800-265-3200 Canadian Snowbird Association www.snowbirds.org MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 180 LESMILL ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA M3B 2T5 Membership Number (for renewing members)______Language English Français

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Membership per household (maximum 2 people) 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 5 Year Lifetime $25 $45 $65 $99 $325 Credit provided for any dues paid in the last 5 years; call to confirm savings. Special Action Fund Donation $20 $30 $50 $100 Other ______Payment VISA MasterCard Cash Cheque (Make payable to: Canadian Snowbird Association) Credit Card # ______Expiry ______

I/we hereby apply for membership in the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) and, if 3) The association will make reasonable efforts to ensure that we are advised of the purposes for which accepted, acknowledge and/or agree as follows: the information may be used. 1) Membership dues are non-refundable and are renewable every June 30. 4) The letters patent, by-laws, rules, regulations and policies of the association are binding. 2) Information contained in this application may be used by the association for various The Canadian Snowbird Association is in compliance with the Personal Information Protection and purposes in accordance with privacy legislation including, but not limited to the Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) of the Government of Canada. following: To exclude your subscription to the CSAnews magazine, deduct $9.95 from the annual dues rate. a) Marketing purposes or research. b) Association-approved third parties as may be necessary. Membership dues and fees are subject to change without notice.

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50 | www.snowbirds.org CSA Benefits

CSA INFORMATION BOOKLETS THE CSA MEMBER HANDBOOK: CSAnews BENEFITS & SERVICES The CSA provides members with OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | FALL 2016 | ISSUE 100

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Publ TRAVEL TEXA TAX-FREE CE E FINAN TH FINANC NIN’ HEAL TING CVD SAVINGS CATION BERMUDA RUN PREVEN ACCOuNTS TION VA RTIES DRY NEW SEC PROPE PORTUGAL a look at another snowbird destination regarding issues that impact GET REAdy TO TRAVEL HEALTH GOLF NKNOWN CISE hEAd SOuTh U PE EXER EURO Monastery of Santa Maria in Alcobaça JoãoPhoto: Paulo E Pristine Yo HIS ISSU HEALTH S uSIDE T e CIN r LTHY e o V r the HEA pa u oing fo S Patagonia Plannt n t ACK style ge e d Life B Snos!w bir 6 mmon Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON || sUMMer 20062006 || issUe 5959 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON || fall 20052005 || issue 56 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON || wiNter 20052005 || issUe 57 & n Co Officials News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sPriNg 2006 | issUe 58 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | wiNter 2006 | issUe 61 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sPriNg 2007 | issUe 62 Seve 40 nt Error nvestm e I lic Health ting Pub Protec Meet Dr. Beach What’s Inside? who he is and how he rates America’s Top Ten beaches It’s early Bird Time! Snowbird side-trips CSA Need help deadline is august 10 Osteoarthritis treatment Breakthrough! A leader speaks Drive to Bermuda? Federal Health Minister finding a advises provinces to our favourite i-75 guide comply with the C.H.A. doctor? takes us over the ocean See Me, Hear Me ISSUE combat sensory deprivation access to good Medical care associated with your age

publications, you will find information at home and away 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Newfoundland and Labrador 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication discoverOntariO Keep exploring this summer! travelling Canadians. As an active

Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Florida Tax Crisis louisiana rebirth How did we get here? Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Restoring the SOUL of the U.S. 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Publication mail agreement no: agreement 40063603 mail Publication NEW ZEALAND summertime in the winter 100Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON sPriNg 2008 | issUe 66 pertaining to border crossing, tips to help Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | fall 2007 | issUe 64 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | wiNter 2007 | issUe 65 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sUMMer 2008 | issUe 67 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | fall 2008 | issUe 68 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | wiNter 2008 | issUe 69 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sPriNg 2009 | issUe 70 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sUMMer 2009 | issUe 71 The Amazing It’s Early Canadian Dollar! Bird Time! subscriber and member of the Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Inside You’ll Get: Eating Healthy inside… A Good Night’s Sleep CSA President explore Living in Lake ChapaLa taking care of your skin Myrtle Beach Your Retirement An in-depth look at a southern haven for Canadians Don Gardiner the allure of Oaxaca Mexico Alberta Fixed Mess With Texas... Explore the Lone Star State

you plan a lengthy trip and the various Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sPriNg 2010 | issUe 74 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | wiNter 2010 | issUe 77 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sPriNg 2011 | issUe 78 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sUMMer 2011 | issUe 79 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | fall 2009 | issUe 72 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | wiNter 2009 | issUe 73 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | sUMMer 2010 | issUe 75 Official News MagaziNe Of the caNadiaN sNOwbird assOciatiON | fall 2010 | issUe 76 Before you Seeking Borrow… adventure? WHat's home equiTy Victory! On the road in an RV A Better loAns ontaRio snoWbiRds CSA, you will receive four issues deciphering Your wAy to Give can Vote by mail dividendS Choosing a Charity Different strategies for hobby? Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication uncertain market conditions Keeping active after retirement Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 no: agreement mail Publication What are you

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The Canadian Snowbird Association Designed Exclusively for the Canadian Snowbird Lifestyle Snowbird Currency offers its members a hassle free service Exchange Program to convert their Canadian currency into American funds, and it has never been Not only is there strength in numbers…there are better. Every month we will deduct the dollars in your pocket because of them! As a member funds from your Canadian financial of the CSA, you can take advantage of highly institution, exchange the currency and deposit the funds directly into your U.S. Proven by thousands of snowbirds competitive rates negotiated through the CSA’s group Exclusive, preferred exchange rates Automatic monthly transfers purchasing power. For your home, car and cottage based bank account. No paperwork, no Low or no transfer fees Save $100s each year! protection, look to the CSA. phone calls. Just convenience. Endorsed by the 1-800-267-8000 1-800-265-3200

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CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 51 Outside the Box Puzzles CSA News Summer 2017 (No. 103) Edition Candidates 01 02 03 U win lose shooter + win + lose + win + lose mdownuth Outside the Box Puzzles 04 05 06 CSA News Summer 2017 (No. 103) Edition Candidates Fun & Games Outside the Box Puzzles 01 02 03 Tom CSA News Summer 2017 (No. 103) Edition Candidates Tom Tom Tom g Tom Can you guess them all? Steven Tom 01 r 02 03 Harry These Outside the OutsideBox puzzles the will definitelyBox Puzzlesease teaseU your brain! Dick CSA News Summer 2017 (No. 103) Editionwin loseCandidates shooter + win + lose + win + lose U mdownuth 01 02 win07lose 03 08 09 shooter + win + lose 1. 4. + win + lose CRY! 04 05 mdownuth06 CRY! U c ea s it shooter win lose h CRY! 04 + win + lose 05 u F Tom06 L + win + lose Tom Tom CRY! p mdownuth Tom g Tom Steven TomTom r Tom HarryTom Outside the Box easePuzzles Dick Tom 04 05 10 06 Tom 11 12 CSA News Summer 2017 (No. 103)g Edition Candidates Steven Tom r OIN IN HarryG O G G

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Tax Talk! Taxes and politicians are closely related. Once we get stuck with a tax, the only thing politicians know how to do is to raise it. New taxes are like mustard plasters ‒ easy to put on, but almost impossible to remove. This talk about a “new source of revenue” simply means tapping the same old taxpayer in a brand-new place. The fellow who said, “What goes up, must come down” must have lived before they invented taxes and postal rates. Advice to vacationers: Don’t overtax yourself. The government will do it for you.

Dear God... A little boy wanted $100.00 very badly and prayed for weeks, but nothing happened. So he decided to write God a letter asking for $100.00. When Canada Post received the letter addressed to God, Canada, they decided to send it to the prime minister. The prime minister was so amused that he instructed his secretary to send the little boy a $5.00 bill. The Prime Minister thought that this would appear to be a lot of money to a little boy. The little boy was delighted with the $5.00 bill and sat down to write a thank-you note to God, which read:

Dear God, Thank you very much for sending the money. However, I noticed that for some reason, you sent it through Ottawa and, as usual, those jerks deducted $95.00 in taxes.

CSANews | SUMMER 2017 | 53 Fast Facts

25 years ago in Canada’s leaders in 1992 Canada ▶▶ Prime Minister of Canada – Brian Mulroney ▶▶ Dr. Roberta Bondar becomes the first Canadian ▶▶ Premier of Alberta – Don Getty woman in space (until December 14), then Ralph Klein ▶▶ The "new" Ottawa Senators play their first game in the National ▶▶ Premier of British Columbia – Mike Harcourt Hockey League ▶▶ Premier of Manitoba – Gary Filmon ▶▶ The Toronto Blue Jays become the first non-United States team to win ▶▶ Premier of New Brunswick – Frank McKenna the World Series ▶▶ Premier of Newfoundland – Clyde Wells ▶▶ The Westray Mine Disaster in Plymouth, Nova Scotia, kills all 26 ▶▶ Premier of Nova Scotia – Donald Cameron miners working the night shift ▶▶ Premier of Ontario – Bob Rae ▶▶ Four people are killed in a shooting rampage at Concordia University ▶▶ Premier of Prince Edward Island – Joe Ghiz ▶▶ Canadian voters reject the Charlottetown Accord ▶▶ Premier of Quebec – Robert Bourassa ▶▶ Canada enters into the North American Free Trade Agreement with ▶▶ Premier of Saskatchewan – Roy Romanow the U.S.A. and Mexico

When did taxation begin 25 years ago in the in Canada? United States In 1918, the wartime government under Sir Robert Borden imposed a “temporary” ▶▶ Ross Perot runs for president income tax to cover wartime expenses. Despite ▶▶ Bill Clinton is elected as the 42nd president of the United States the new tax, the Canadian Government ran ▶▶ Hurricane Andrew hits south Florida up considerable debts during the war and was unable to forgo income tax revenue after the ▶▶ U.S. refuses to sign the UN Convention on Climate Change war ended. Income tax has remained in place ▶▶ Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega is sentenced to 40 years in prison ever since. ▶▶ Mafia boss John Gotti is sentenced to life in prison ▶▶ Jeffrey Dahmer is sentenced to life in prison What gives ▶▶ The Rodney King riots break out in Los Angeles the Government ▶▶ Ruby Ridge standoff takes place in Idaho the right to tax us? ▶▶ Barney the Dinosaur makes his debut on the PBS network ▶▶ Johnny Carson make his final appearance hostingThe Tonight Show The constitutional authority for the federal income tax is found in section 91, paragraph 3 ▶▶ Miley Cyrus is born of the Constitution Act, 1867, which assigns to the federal Parliament power over “The raising of Money by any Mode or System of Taxation.” 25 years ago around The constitutional authority for the various provincial income taxes is found in section the world 92, paragraph 2 of the Constitution Act, 1867, which assigns to the legislature of ▶▶ South Africans vote to end apartheid each province the power of “Direct Taxation ▶▶ Boris Yeltsin and George H. W. Bush agree to stop targeting cities within the Province in order to the raising of a of the United States and Russia with nuclear weapons, and formally Revenue for Provincial Purposes.” The courts declare that the Cold War is over have held that “an income tax is the most ▶▶ The Church of England votes to allow women to become priests typical form of direct taxation.” ▶▶ The Queen of England begins paying income tax ▶▶ Prince Charles and Princess Diana announce their separation Answers to Outside the Box Puzzles from page 52 ▶▶ Euro Disney opens in France 1. Sharpshooter 2. You win some, you lose some 3. Down in the mouth ▶▶ McDonalds opens its first restaurant in China (in Beijing) 4. Falling apart like a cheap suit 5. A fool’s paradise 6. Going around in circles

54 | www.snowbirds.org Snowbird Currency Exchange Program

The Snowbird Currency Exchange Program is designed specifically for the snowbird lifestyle. It’s that unique!

Join ranks with thousands of satisfied snowbirds who transfer money from Canada to the U.S. at exclusive, preferred exchange rates with little or no fees. It works with all major financial institutions, and the transfers are automatic.

The Snowbird Currency Exchange Program is the ultimate in cross-border banking for Canadian snowbirds. The program enables you to transfer money automatically from your regular Canadian chequing account to your U.S.-based bank account. The rest is up to you!

You can specify which months and what amounts you want to transfer, or you can have the same amount transferred every month on a continuous basis. Proven by thousands of snowbirds

What makes this program really unique is that we pool the funds of every enrolled snowbird and complete a single bulk transaction. This grants us access to exchange rates otherwise unavailable to the consumer, and we pass the savings on to you.

Unlike most exchange programs, the Snowbird Currency Exchange Program will not subject you to additional fees when your funds are transferred to your U.S. bank account. It’s that good!

The Snowbird Currency Exchange Program – it’s convenient, secure, trusted by thousands and worry-free.

For information please call the CSA or download 1-800-265-3200 the application from www.snowbirds.org Enrol early and save more with Medipac Early Bird Travel Insurance®

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