By George Evens. Dear Prime Minister, MP, Premier, MLA, Opposition Party Leaders, Publishers, Editors, Reporters, Columnists, Talk Show Hosts, Mayors & Councillors, CEO/FRASER HEALTH, Mr. David Black, CEO & Mr. Rick O’Connor, President Black Press, Police Boards/Assn/Commissioner/Chiefs, Political Associations, Seniors’ Associations, Seniors’ & General Public:
“IN THIS EDITION” – The sense of “CHANGE” is in the thoughts of most VOTERS and once started this momentum is unstopable. The “Lead Now” movement is gaining favour and was featured on TV “22 Minutes”. Foremost, all Canadians need to agree & focus attention on being good “Citizens” and secondly, “Good Citizens” pay “Taxes” and “VOTE” – to regain status as a “full Citizen” is our common and collective goal of all Canadians and thus, we are not merely taxpayers or voters, we are to be called Citizens…Deliberately Stupid points fingers at more outlandish incompetence…Seniors are starting to mobilize from grass root Communities, pro-active Advocates who can fight overwhelming odds and win, soon at the polls more than ever….Focus upon Mission Future & “Politicians at the trough”…..Never forget how the powerful can fall, fickle voters, fickle shareholders & surprise more people with integrity speaking-out finally, can end bad governance – RECALL LEGISLATION may soon be on the horizon at Municipal, Provincial & Federal levels? Our story this month is a Focus upon “Ageism & Abuse”…..
Please understand, this “News to You Newsletter” is sent to you under the premise we sincerely believe you care and wish to be part of the solution, we state factual, effective & wise resolutions to causes & issues identified and are eternally grateful so many agree with our conclusions. Simply, as well, we practice and subscribe to the three fundamental principles advanced by Colleagues at Avaaz, a 40 million Global Campaign Activist Network, notably ‘Show Kindness and Respect; Strive for Wisdom & Practice Gratitude” but if we misjudged you & willingness to pursue solutions, we apologize.
Publishing plans will be changed to a quarterly publication January, April, July & October and we are seeking to reduce to 8 pages. Primary objectives will be upon Federal & British Columbia causes, issues & Legislation, with major Focus upon Seniors’ and International Animal Welfare & Cruelty issues and (related) local Fraser Valley initiatives, commencing with creating age-friendly & inclusive Communities & Seniors’ Activity Centre at Mission.
Some Important dates to remember
- Thursday February 5, 2015, 10:30am, Mission Seniors Centre Association – meeting at Mission Community Activity Centre ALL SENIORS’ are encouraged to attend this meeting – JOIN or RENEW MSCA ($10 Annual dues – help plan activities) – YOUR SENIOR VOICE, LEADERSHIP, SUPPORT & WISDOM is needed more than ever NOW! VOLUNTEERS are always needed. But as a sign of solidarity and strength in numbers, ALL Seniors’ need to, at the very least, join the MSCA and become known as a supporter of Seniors’ needs.
- Friday February 6, 2015, Hilton Metrotown, Burnaby, 8:30am – 4:15pm, System Change for Seniors’ Care Forum with Seniors’ Advocate Isabel MacKenzie & Ombudsperson, Kim Carter -workshops on key issues to Seniors’. Register $ 25.00, call Lindsay Bertrand 604-801-5121 X233 or bcseniors@policyalternatives.ca
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- Note: Please email me any important Seniors’ dates throughout the year, that recognize any Seniors’ accomplishment or issues.
Do you ever have cause to ask yourself, “why don’t I speak-out” OR “Why don’t I VOTE”? Maybe too conservative and do not like to draw attention; maybe too scared and fear repercussions; maybe too comfortable, so why help others; maybe too indifferent so who cares about others? Fear not, The Council Advocacy & ECAC via “News To You Newsletters” will speak publicly for you in all matters of civic, political, health, seniors’ or Animal cruelty & welfare issues BUT, in return we need your individual & collective VOTES to elect Municipal Councils, Premiers & Federal Governments that will respond to our demands for improved lives of Canadians.
“Unity in Challenging Times” – this rallying call rings across the land as the ‘sleeping giant’ “Silver Psunami” responds to Seniors’ needs
SENIORS’ MATTER – “It is time for all to shake hands & speak as one strong voice”
Challenge to YOU – One of the most important lessons ALL SENIORS’ need to learn and start to practice is to work together toward common goals. I believe,” The significant challenge to all Seniors’ and by extension Seniors’ Organizations, like major groups, such as CARP or COSCO who boast hundreds of thousands of members and many affiliates, is for all of us to harness our collective energies and influences”. Simply, we need Municipal affiliates, possibly more than one as often Constitution/Bylaws may be self-limiting and simply, we need more pro-active efforts; Provincial & Federal might comprise all individual Municipal individuals/associations but simply, a need exists to formulate all issues into an organized framework, by priority, for advancement to appropriate level of Government for adoption. Governments or others need to understand the force numbers of committed Seniors’ bring to the table up to an including their future in Government.
“if a fool can muster sufficient votes, he/she can be elected/re-elected”, so Citizens’ must exercise their VOTE wisely, do your due diligence about Candidates and VOTE wisely, not as an uninformed follower. Support Candidates who support Seniors’. The bar is too low, no standards or qualifications, just get most votes. Equally as bad, no effective “Recall Legislation” exists at Municipal, Provincial or Federal level that would mitigate a poor choice or clear ineptness, thus instead of possible “recall” after one year or annual intervals, Citizens’ could at least seek remedy and to have opportunity to seek a more capable person, which becomes exacerbated now that BC Municipalities have gone to four year terms which dramatically exacerbates potential harm.
The person you get may be the person you know, for example, Politicians or anyone in a Leadership role, Police Chief, CEO, President of Association and so forth, if they were alcoholics, drug addicts, religious zealots, bullies, excessive profanity users, caring and kind, charasmatic. “great people”, that is who you likely will find in the new capacity, as seldom do peoples character and behaviour change, except possibly as a result of a “significant event”. So, if you find your new Mayor lies, becomes aloof, arrogant or self-obsessed with their own arrogance and “know-it-all, that is likely the character you failed to learn about (can you imagine the chagrin of many to Toronto’s Mayor Bob Ford behaviour), which again supports calls for a Municipal “Recall” plan.
Thus, one may surmise, why would some, like BC Premier, run an election campaign on “Family First” values, except for sympathy and to deceive voters as to a ‘fleeting’ character, then witness BC being remiss to establish an effective Child care policy/program, abolish poverty from Children’s lives, guaranteeing meal programs at each School needing support. Conservatives fail to negotiate a new Health Accord with at least 6% increments annually, no National Pharmacare or Health Care standards for Long Term Care, Lyme Disease, Care & Safety standards for Patients with Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease, so why would anyone expect them to care about Seniors’ care & health? The issue therefore, all Seniors’ and their Families, need to think carefully who they vote for next October, vote only for Candidates who support Seniors is the wise call for all.
George F. Evens is the featured Senior in October 31, 2013 Edition of Mission Seniors’ Living 55 Plus, that you can refer to as a base, then each month a new Senior will be featured in each Editions of Seniors 55 Plus. Here is a link to the Mission Seniors’ Living 55 Plus, published in the Mission City Record, the last Friday monthly. The e-edition is available athttp://www.missioncityrecord.com/eeditions/
George is an Advocate/Facilitator, founder of the “Round Table” discussion group and an ally you want in your corner. He has a focus upon the “greater good & larger picture” in areas of selected Advocacy, refer www.thecouncilclaw.ca select issue from CONTENTS
- Seniors’ Advocate/Facilitator since 2005
- Animal Advocate/Facilitator since 1995, affectionally known as The “Catfather”
- Civic & Political Advocate, “political pundit & political reforms”, Host of News To You Newsletter, since 1988
- Archives at www.abbotsfordtoday.ca enter “News To You” or “George F. Evens” click “Search” for numerous reference documents published by this vastly superior Media site.
“EDITORIALLY SPEAKING OF COURSE” BUT DO YOU RECOGNIZE
o That sense of vibrancy that is starting to permeate your every waking moment is the aura created by People coming together in a united spirit of “CHANGE”, it stimulates your mind, gives a sense of hope, a feeling that our Community, Province or Country can rise to the challenges, overcome obstacles and create a unification of self-actualization if we identify the common good needed, the moral spirit to speak-out and demand Leaders listen and act in the best interests of Constituents. There is an air of excitement, an ELECTION is on the horizon and we, the PEOPLE will create and manage the changes needed to transform CANADA back into the once proud Country we were.
o Some proposals I am seeking Citizen support for, include to restore respect for our Seniors’ & Veterans by increasing monthly payments for Old Age Pensions, War Veterans, Guaranteed Income Supplements, Pension Tax Deductions, Homeowner Grants for 70+ year old Seniors’ permitting longer living in Family Homes. An actual commitment to open and operate more long-term care beds thus freeing Emergency ward beds; commitment to refinance and make financial plans to accommodate co-op housing where leases have and/or will be expiring, thus assuring security and ongoing homes for Seniors’ suddenly caught in this dilemma, of losing homes or facing exorbitant costs; financial considerations to all on fixed incomes to mitigate the dramatic impact incessant and exorbitant increases on near every service or commodity dramatically inflicting stress, hardship and financial ruin on most who can barely survive and continue to absorb each and every cost incurred to do so, with no sane reasoning engaged by Government, just some blind abusive uncaring decision to increase cost with no thought of consequences, thus, an annual corresponding cost of living adjustment is imperative to restore and/or retain an acceptable standard of living and not find fixed income people fall into despair or homelessness.
o A challenge all Seniors Advocates, facing individuals and organizations alike, consists of identifying our Constituents, even if this means developing relative bases by Community and a voluntary collaboration with each other to common objective and goals, even if some reluctance to amass into one governing body may exist, it could be a longer-term goal. Simply, we ideally need numbers in order to achieve political power and thus, a framework how to organize this mass into dynamic action. Next, who will be active, supportive but not active, indifferent insofar as seem to feel no need given possibly financial status but nonetheless benefit by any national pension or health care gains even though largely isolated in “gated communities, private care & profit facilities” not inter-acting with others in the Community. Thus, having identified segments of participation, the major task of formulating effective communication vehicles is next. One arms-length entity that reflects some of this process is the new Seniors Advocate and decision to constitute a 25-30 member Advisory Council. Some key elements that may differ between each is degree of autonomy, pro-active nature, comprehensive content of issues and last receptive nature of Government to act upon proposals, thus not creating a moribund governance and impression of doing something, while actually not, as present often the case. Therefore, once all “Advocates” are recognized and fully engaged, we shall witness mass improvements to Seniors’ lives.
o CENTRALIZED MEDIA & WHAT ARE WE GETTING – This alarming phenomenon bears repeating and public scrutiny, that while Media is at an all-time low in “dumbing down” media coverage, with notable exceptions, one being the progressive www.abbotsfordtoday.com online media who provide all facts, whereas too many traditional media follow a censorship model and remain in denial, often only portraying local Government in “good light”, so as to “not bite the hand that feeds them presumably”. As well, this local media sadly has succumbed to an at any cost mindset “revenue prevails over all else” and too often papers become an extension of the massive content of flyers by bringing advertisers to overpower the print paper with ads, as well, denying often, public opinions and informative columns and stories
o CENTRALIZED MEDIA & WHAT MIGHT THEY WANT? – Just read about Black Press buying up more Municipal papers and witness their “spin” about economic values but the unfortunate missing component is “trust”. In pre-NAZI Germany, Hitler convinced Citizens “of the importance of economic freedom” but his agenda was (secret) and now, as we study History, the people of the World know. But a component was “State owned & controlled Media” and sadly, being cynical and worried about diminishing entitlements of Democracy, not the least of which our Freedom of Speech, Canadians, indeed people across North America are raising their collective voices about to few Owners of our Media, whether TV & Radio or Print. The CRTC must investigate, by lifting the veil of secrecy and ascertain intent, then act in the interests of preserving Citizens’ interests and Right & Freedoms in our Charter. Simply, it may be one thing to argue the economics and financial constraints, need for profits and such by amalgamating production and business ventures but making a good business case may be one goal, controlling and censoring freedom of speech, what we may read or listen/watch is quite another. When like Fraser Valley, for example, Black Press now own the only two remaining local Newspapers between Abbotsford/Mission, notably NEWS & RECORD and if Readers/Writers were granted opportunity to read opposing opinions and not be subjected to revenue motivated and micro-managed (public) opinions, free of bias and censorship, we may rejoice but when manipulated, ignored and clearly censored, at times, the Public worries is this an over-zealous Editor or by design of Owners to control opinions. When the “only show in town” seems to favour a (Politician) and again, concerns, questions and allegations are simply denied, out-of-hand, by a perceived Publisher/Editor exuding arrogance or indignation that their (dictatorship) may be challenged but the Public worries and rightly so, thus, it becomes crucial Competitor Bureau or other Agencies monitor and act to restore any anomalies and that the Public at-large can gain assurance the Media outlet is not controlling speech or opinions, that indeed they are good Corporate Citizens and the Public well-being is paramount..
“COSCO SAYS “PLAN & WORK WITH SENIORS’, NOT FOR THEM”
JOIN COSCO AS AN INDIVIDUAL OR YOUR ASSOCIATION AS AN AFFILIATE – THIS IS YOUR VOICE!
o SENIORS’ must respond, get involved and offer collective support across British Columbia to the “Council of Senior Citizens’ Organizations of B.C.(COSCO). A growing (117,000 member Seniors’ organization) who need the support of all Seniors’ and Seniors’ Organizations, to observe and demand Government accept a resolution to afford all Citizens’ access to quality health care a fundamental right of every Canadian resident, regardless of race, gender, disability, political belief, social conviction, location or ability to pay, a notion we unequivocally support. COSCO believes a comprehensive national health care system includes education, prevention, diagnosis, counselling and timely treatment, again we unequivocally support. Therefore, they present a resolution that we respectfully request all Seniors’ support, “be it resolved that the federal, provincial and territorial governments be urged to negotiate a new comprehensive health accord that protects, transforms and strengthens our national health care system. This must include human and financial resources including at least a 6 percent escalator, as well as a national seniors’ health care plan and a national pharmaceutical strategy that will improve health outcomes for Canadians”.
o The 2018 Municipal election has started but the important lesson all must learn is “the bigger you are the harder you fall”, don’t be lulled into some false sense of power & popularity, look at how many major Companies and CEO’s have failed; total Governments tossed out Federally and Provincially and yes Municipally. Typically, we make a few recommendations, observe responsiveness by new Mayors & Councils for approximately six (6) months. If unacceptable we commence a public awareness campaign, thus assuring “no reelection” but should a “Recall” plan commence we would be active participants, such as with rid BC of the HST, as moribund, arrogant, unresponsive and inept politicians are redundant and the Public needs public recourse to embarrass into action or replace.
“There is nothing that Politicians fear more than an engaged and informed Canadian Citizen”
“DELIBERATELY STUPID AWARD”
This ‘infamous’ increasingly popular broad category distinction, the recognized recipients are the most deserving, the misguided, arrogant, self-centered, truly ignorant, those bringing shame and embarrassment to Canada or their Country of origin, the cyber trolls and bullies living among us – sadly, the lowest form of Humanity living among us but the “deliberately stupid” category is a truly heartfelt distinction not that many, fortunately, can aspire to & attain this award. People who know better and/or (once) being informed “should know better” but instead make a conscious decision, often greed inspired or self-interestideological motivation but totally devoid of conscience and often outwardly narcissist or psychopathic behaviour.
1) Translink “Congestion Improvement Tax” .5% sale tax increase – VOTE “NO”. This additional tax is being added to the likes of .17cents a litre gas tax, Hydro levy, 3% annual property tax and what else will be extracted from Citizens and go into this growing insatible appetite large and growing black sink hole, that, sadly governance and funding methods lacks credibility and thus Citizens must be wary. Simply, Federal & Provincial Governments need to establish appropriate budgets to fund needed infrastructures, such as this “Transportation” and collectively decide how to fund, thus, stop placing onus upon inexperienced and lacking credibility Mayors.
2) Ferry service needs to be added to the same infrastructure budget as Translink, funded and governed, treated as an extension of the Federal roadway to farthest western points of the Country; reduction in ferry fees will dramatically increase revenue whereas any increase is a negative motivator to Ferry users.
3) Government failure to establish a Seniors’ Care National strategy, in part due to Government fiscal restraint policies which is contributing to potential disastrous consequences for the Health Care System. It is estimated 15% of Canads acute care hospital beds are being occupied by Seniors’ who should be at home assisted by Community-based care. Costs are estimated between $880-$2000 daily compared to $200 for long-term residential care. Moribund and inept policy-makers negligence perpetuates “warehousing” Patients, who at 15% today Seniors’ consume an estimated 50% of health care dollars.
4) Governments and (some) STAFF, at each level of political governance exude an immaturity, a dramatic lack of business acumen, an indifference and often arrogance accompanied by an indignant behaviour when challenged, but the gist of the perceived predicament may be summed up by the cliche, “the inmates are running the asylum”. While obviously more a generalization and perception that applies to a prevalent body, the sad outcomes are often indifference, negligence, intransigence, moribund performance and sadly, if too many elected members of a governing body are of likeminded skill level, a Municipality, Province or Country can suffer needlessly. Unfortunately, certain safeguards are bypassed, such as an effective Recall that would mitigate impact. Equally, “Opposition Parties” seem to exacerbate situations and hamper progress being in the untenable position of lacking power of the vote but equally fail miserably to create public awareness of their opposition and/or efforts made to truly represent Citizens. The current perceived leadership of dictator proportions hampers Country/Province or to lesser impact, local Municipality, progress is curtailed as we remain prisoners of dominating leaders, ideology inspired governance and sadly, until qualified leaders emerge with a strong sense of accountability, progress and democratic values, too many Voters will remain disenfranchised and not vote, retaining low turnout at polls and the scenario of ineptness being elected will prevail in many enclaves that otherwise may rejoice at creating and managing change that will benefit humanity and our Animals alike, by enlightened, compassionate and truly democratic inspired leaders who can step aside their self-importance and personal gain motives.
5) Government failure to amend the Criminal Code to recognize Animals as sentient-beings capable of feeling and fearing pain, that cruelty will be an act recognized and punishable without needing to prove intent or willful, as it is an obvious act; to prohibit inhumane Factory Farming methods now not accepted practices, such as eliminate Battery Hen Cages, Pig Farrowing Crates, Fois Gras, Veal Crates, experiments on Animals that are unnecessary for any scientific values, cruel treatment of “downer” Animals and a venture into compassionate farming methods, like free range hens; prohibit breeding, capture and confinement of sea animals, such as Killer Whales, Dolphins, except for rehabilitation needs to save lives; last for this issue, to demand all Genetically Modified Products (GMO) be labelled describing product, alterations made and why any side-effects; simply a vast change to current unacceptable practices that have endured an indifferent and ignorant animal husbandry practices under some preconceived means of maximizing farm production and lower costs of foods that was in reality a falsehood perpetrated upon Consumers who are now much more informed and compassionate, thus discriminate Consumers demand improvement and a new found respect for all Animals immediately.
6) Government & Canada Post utterly foolhardy notion to cease Home Delivery is a retrograde action that first demands the CEO be terminated and if not rescinded sufficient to change the Government, creates undue hardship for shut-ins, Seniors’ with health complications, increase criminal activity with unsecure boxes and given Canada Post is a profitable monopoly it is a nonsensical stupid decision, at best.
7) “Political Correctness” needs to STOP, it has exceeded commonsense and sound judgment to the other extreme making Canada a fool in World markets and Societies.
8) Dying with dignity is a Citizens’ fundamental right, yet (some) Politicians, often ideology inspired, seek to interfere but the adding of insult to injury and cynically speaking a perceived influence by incumbent Government defies respect to terminally ill and infringes upon their right to die with dignity. The Revenue Agency seem complicit in this inhumane decision by stopping the Charitable status of a group notably Dying With Dignity Canada a non-profit registered in 1982, yet now an audit claims “should never have been registered” using the most profound reason, “because its activities have always had a political purpose, notably “to expand choice in dying”, political, really!? Step one, determine the Revenue Agency person making this decision and terminate, then reflect your disdain at the voting booth. Oh yes, move to restore Charitable status immediately.
9) Municipal Government, specifically City of Abbotsford and District of Mission failure to establish integrated no-kill Animal Shelters for Dogs & Cats (Mission has a Dog Pound) but each Municipality, including, in part, other FVRD Municipalities, is remiss establishing appropriate comprehensive Animal Welfare Bylaws and Shelter. As well, Elizabeth’s Wild Life Centre is drastically under-funded, yet plays a crucial role in the complete FVRD region rescuing and rehabilitating injured wild life relying almost totally upon volunteers & donations, which like lack of Shelters is a travesty perpetrated by indifferent and moribund Councils, which each Municipality ought to undergo introspection to commence some 21st Century thinking and action to remedy needs of Animals.
10) Government complicity at failing to prohibit any experimentation upon Animals, most not beneficial to humans and that can be served better by controlled computerized programs but it is incongruous how any sane person would agree to such inhumane acts of cruelty under any guise. In the US, possibly Canada, for monkeys cruelly condemned to traumatic psychological experiments at a U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) laboratory in Maryland, a lifetime of fear and abuse can begin just moments after their birth.
After being pulled away from their mothers, many of these young animals are locked alone in small metal cages and often crammed into “startle chambers”—cages so small that they can’t stand up or do much more than scream as they’re repeatedly tormented with loud noises and powerful bursts of air. Some will have been bred to be predisposed to mental illness—helping experimenters further traumatize them—or will be purposely addicted to alcohol, which heightens their anxiety and depression. The fear and cruelty will continue throughout their lives, ending only when they are killed and dissected—often before their eighth birthday. And you thought Hitler and NAZI regime epitomized cruelty, when it is going on in our higher places of learning and labs, shame on all who turn a blind eye to these barbaric acts of cruelty by Citizens of our own North America Countries.
The look of absolute fear in the eyes of an infant monkey torn away from his or her mother’s side for use in cruel psychological experiments is simply heartbreaking. Baby monkeys’ cries of terror as they’re isolated, drugged, and frightened with loud noises are even worse. These babies—and countless other animals much like them who endure other forms of exploitation—desperately need your help.
“In My Opinion” – The “Political” future is unfolding with cautiously optimistic opportunities
“The District of Mission – On the Fraser”….. BUT Mission has a major failing that needs to be addressed, first by a “NEW” Mayor & Council but a total overhaul of all Citizen services to formulate a more inclusive Community. The “Branding” Project underway needs a Terms of Reference and Budget to be established, in-conjunction with the District Council but equally Stakeholders in the Project. It is perceived a lack of organization seems evident, judging by the Presentation to Council January 19, 2015.
A simple definition of “Insanity” is “to keep doing the same things and to expect a different outcome” and thus, there lies part of the cause of problems, even though it has been stipulated Mission is rife with “silos” and “cliques” prevail in the governing of many organizations, not the least of which pitfalls including losing membership and not attracting many new members, successive Boards re-electing the same persons, which sadly exacerbates solutions, most remain firmly in denial and this only perpetuates the status-quo, to the chagrin of many. It is my sense failure to establish measurement, such as, for my purposes, while other yardsticks may exist, I use the “eligible voter complement” and measure, for example, attendance to any public event against this statistic, similarly, elected Council members as a percentage of this number and so forth, which may not be scientific it is consistent and realistic, rather than just saying “hundreds attended, well attended and other equally redundant measurement, not the least of which it reflects the number, thus success or failure, of a community-wide Citizen engagement, that may assist in developing more effective future planning.
o Focus upon Mission “The FUTURE – the age of the dinosaur is given a reprieve to the chagrin of most Citizens’ but that is what “apathy, disenfranchisement, divisive political environment and community division and little or no engagement to create an inclusive community” to name a few issues that ail the District of Mission lo these many years. At the risk of some repetition, some years ago a Consultant retained found Mission rife with “silos”, add to this “cliques” dominated most organizations and a compounding factor all were aging and it is perceived ageism was prevalence. Further compounding, many organizations were governed by many of the same people. Indeed, still today, rather than witnessing strong, active member participation and growth, new members joining and active leadership, it is largely the opposite. Having identified Community problems and causes, for example, “silos”, there was no appetite by players to make improvement, as, for example, this may erode a political power base, which, for a major part was the greatest opposition to creating an inclusive community, so Citizens’ were destined to live in failure of this important goal.
o Speaking of “fools”, the last election at Mission, was the worst on record anywhere, to me, with several unacceptable postings on web.sites, with one over-zealous zealot spouting the most vitriolic verbiage against CRMG, mostly unfounded but typical of (desperation) and while the beneficiary our (elected) Mayor made no visible attempt to dissuade the individual it was symptomatic in nature. The incessant negativity by the zealot persisted throughout the election campaign and when some known twenty (20) Citizens, probably more, tried to refute or offer opposing opinions, they were arbitrarily deleted and banned from posting on the web.site, clearly censorship and bias. Now, the site announces a senior “Staff” member has been appointed as an Editor and that a collaboration has been entered into with the Municipality. This reflects poor optics, a clear sign of bias emerges and Citizens wonder at the desperation a legitimate Community web.site would resort to in order to engage Citizens. Some are rightly asking, is this pay back by the Mayor, for the web.site support getting him elected? Another disingenuous motive by too many is posting irrelevant, disrespectful and repugnant comments about another, someone totally unknown and only crime seems to be having a different opinion. It is incongruous how some web site Hosts will condone such negativity and hostile sentiments. Equally, the credibility of the District of Mission is at stake, that an elected Council & paid “Staff” would be complicit in this collaboration, given facts, is raising Public questions about integrity & motives, when keeping at an arms-length would suffice.
o Let me hasten to add, “Negative” comment by Advocates is symptomatic, an Advocate typically is addressing the negative aspects that exist in the desire to bring improvement, just that simple. For certain, Government spend millions of taxpayer dollars nonsensically telling Citizens’ how great such and such a Government action was, thus, Advocates, are left to try and bring some meaning and progress for the others in Society that Government shuns or ignores. Local Media can play an integral part conveying topical, timely and factual information to Citizens in a transparent, informed, empathetic manner, instead of exuding perceived censoring and indifference. How does your local paper respond and serve Citizens, particularly affording “Public Views via Opinion or Letters Page”, such as at least 1/2 page+ each publication?
FOCUS MISSION & ABBOTSFORD ELECTION NOVEMBER 2018
“We are only limited by the Imagination, Vision & Competence of our Leaders”
- Seniors’ hold the balance of power and if we band together better, we will elect new Councils, Provincial & Federal Governments across the land.
- NEW 2018 VOTER TURNOUT TARGET at MISSION 40.0% (2011= 30.0%, 2014 = 33%)
- What do Politicians like the most about VOTERS? Given most (Politicians) have an established group of “follow at any cost mentality supporters”, they love to witness low voter turnout, a thriving apathy but when the eligible VOTERS become aroused, seek “change” a higher voter turn-out is anticipated.
- FEDERAL ELECTION OCTOBER 2015 – “In my opinion”, I believe “COMMUNICATION” skills are the key to success and” TRUST, TRANSPARANCY & ACCOUNTABILITY” are the Biggest issues. To this end, Canadians are likely to VOTE Centre-Right next Federal election 2015 and it is perceived the Liberals will move quickly to solidify their position accordingly. “CHANGE” is the “buzz-word” of the day and will permit Citizens’ the opportunity to instill “Pride” back into Canadian Culture but equally, for Seniors’ and Veterans, Children and Homeless to be offered new hope, thus “Incumbents” ought to rightly fear defeat as a “change & managed change” will undoubtedly witness new Leaders.
o All Citizens’ and VOTERS ought to read an enlightening paper book called “Harperism” by Donald Gutstein, “How Stephen Harper and his think tank colleagues have transformed Canada”. Frankly, if you do not understand who and what you are voting for, you ought to but whoops forgot, most Canadians are apathetic and don’t care or do we? As I have stated previously, Governments are elected by “getting the vote out, most votes win, and has no resemblance to progressive objectives for our Nation or the best qualified Candidates overall, a moron can be elected to office, as examples abound.
- In my Opinion, the saying, “Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely” fits too many scenarios, just as too many believe they are invincible to public opinion but these same powerful people time after time repeat history as complete Governments are tossed out.
- “LEARNING PAGE” – Reflecting back to a growing concern of Seniors’ notably need for creating inclusive Communities, from an Age-Friendly perspective and defeating “Ageism & Seniors’ Abuse”…..
….. Some retrospection will identify a road to follow …..BUT, First, (our focus) Seniors’ & a (story) that needs to be told will appear in this section, from time to time. THIS MONTH WE FOCUS UPON
“Ageism & Seniors’ Abuse”…..
- To combat ageism and resulting abuse, we all need to challenge the myths, the erroneous notions that Seniors’ lives are less valuable, don’t deserve respect or seniors’ do not feel emotional pain and the senior s’ are largely responsible for growing health care costs.
- Informed seniors’ can prevent negative stereotypes of aging and combat perceptions by younger generations viewing seniors’ as different. Instead we need to create positive stereotypes of aging, in that older people are wise, caring & involved.
- Sometimes ageism takes on a disdain and dislike, such as avoiding contact with older people, perceptions of seniors’ being weak, frail, disabled, being treated different ,often meaning (less), less valued, capable and thus “ageism” rises.
- Ageism often surfaces in discriminatory practices and services of all kinds, often where greater social value is given to people without impairments. Indeed, often Seniors’ are perceived “having outlived their usefulness” and lifelong contributions are overlooked.
- Ageism often manifests in how visible Seniors’ are in society and some seek to marginalize & make them feel unwelcome.
- There are wide differences among seniors’ in their chronological age and avoidance of creating impressions of being possessions, not as individuals, so it is common to see people seldom think their actions are ageist. Seniors’ may witness authorities not believing them, discounted out of hand, not considering harm as serious or unreliable memories of seniors’. Rationalizing financial abuse or that older adults have less right to their money or property than younger family members, perpetuate the negative attitude towards older people.
- Ageism equates to fewer public resources available for abused seniors’ than other groups.
- Ageism, discrimination and abuse are all inter-related within a social attitude.
- Ageism thrives out of ignorance, thus education and challenging someone disparaging a senior, correcting inaccuracy and to let them know comments are hurtful or offensive. As Senior advocates we must create bridges to connect the lifespans of all age groups, to create, sometimes (politically) environments that advocate greater acceptance of seniors’ in society.
- Sadly, many Seniors’ can be their own worst enemies, failing to get involved, demand improvements and rights, to unite in purpose and often to criticize behavior of other elderly people.
- The District of Mission and notably Municipal Councils, of the past, epitomize the governance and approaches that have been remiss to address Seniors’ needs, to eliminate loneliness, to create a camaraderie and instill a pride of belonging, by, in part, the simple gesture to establish a Seniors’ Activity Centre.
- The Elder Citizen Action Coalition (ECAC) share these observations with the Public in a hope the issue may be recognized, unacceptable behavior changed and Seniors given due respect and benefits to enhance their lives.
CITIZEN ALERT – ignore & pay the price later
“MISSION MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PAY PARKING” – “Alarm Bells are ringing but new Council are not yet listening to Citizens” – Mission Council have joined Fraser Health Authority in a Memorandum of Understanding that will permit FHA to impose pay parking at Mission Memorial Hospital in 5 years, sometime after March 2017. This must prompt expansion of ongoing (current) protest to eliminate pay parking at (other) Hospitals, like Abbotsford Regional. by adding a protest to prohibit FHA & Mission Council from proceeding with an agreement to add MMH to the list of Hospital charging (unacceptable) parking fees. Like Delta Hospital, it may start with Council adopting a Bylaw to Prevent Pay Parking. I recently had a Letter to Editor published to this extent but Public apathy is astounding, until of course, when in 2017 Citizens visiting Patients suddenly find exorbitant parking fees confronting them, then oh my word, panic will set in.
SENIORS’ ALERT – support George F. Evens proposals & protect your interests
Mission Council must pick-up the ball and take the building of a new Seniors’ Activity Centre to a touchdown now! The Seniors’ Centre Task Force completed its review and made several recommendations, which we are essentially in agreement with per se, except we vehemently oppose, “reference to likelihood it may take several more years to see the centre built” which flies in the face of some 6-8 years already lost by former Council indifference, which has witnessed too many Seniors’ not being able to enjoy a facility in their lifetime, many having died, illness or disillusionment but enough is enough, we say, so an expedited process and development is demanded, that more Seniors’ will enjoy the facilities within their lifetime. New Council ought to place this “time sensitive” need as a high priority. Some crucial key changes to the Seniors’ Task Force, include a cement structure for safety, a seniors’ only facility with option to rent space, thus (OUR) opposition to multi-generational facility idea, as impractical logistically given a fully furnished facility would not permit shared use, Seniors’ in the daytime and others at night, as suggested, instead it should be Municipally owned Seniors’ governed, a Seniors’ facility to use at their discretion, so, follow the mandated “plan with Seniors, not for them” thus, give the autonomy to govern for themselves; “SENIORS ARE ADULTS & MENTORS” so stop treating as Children & expecting to share space with others. Include 600 sq ft plus low cost suites up to market value varied accommodations, the sale of which will probably pay (most) Seniors’ Activity Centre facility development cost. Preferred location adjacent the Leisure Centre, with a ground level shared parking or above/underground parkade; conversely, incorporate into District owned Welton Commons site, as part of a Civic Complex.
Some important web.sites to remember and view frequently
v The Council Claw – HOST site for results-oriented private Advocacy Groups – www.thecouncilclaw.ca ‘click’ CONTENTS. The pro-active, private owned & operated “cutting-edge Leadership in Canada”. Following are a few Advocacy Groups included:
– Elder Citizen Action Coalition (ECAC) – Seniors’ unite & organize under the auspices ECAC; NOW on ECAC site, 23 pictures of the impressive “New” Pitt Meadows Seniors’ Activity Centre (adjoining “The Wesbrooke Seniors’Living Community”
– The Council Animal Advocacy (CLAW) – Eliminate “Animal Cruelty” – view the astonishing “Gallery of Horrors”,
– The Wholesome & Humane Program – view minimum STANDARDS to raise Farm Animals
– “Your Direct Action” – learn an array of effective Municipal Bylaws, leading-edge practices, policies and Legislation to ensure fair treatment of all Animals including your Companion animals (Dogs & Cats).
v “News to You” is the informed source of Public Opinion, the place (Leaders) and discerning Citizens look for facts and (true) public opinions. “Brought to you by popular Public Opinion representing Public Interests”, the overwhelming desired “new face of Politics” and the new “World Order”. No decisions based upon political ideology only scientific proof & facts; no party-line, only apolitical impartial opinion; no religious doctrines, a clear separation of religion and state; support for free enterprise & reasonable income & profits but frown upon usury practices, greed inspired excessive profits and tax dodging people or corporations. A Canadian perspective and Canadian first focus, what is best for Canadians? No laissez-Faire politics, instead effective “Regulations” to eliminate massive abuses non-regulations encourage and spawn, as sadly most are inspired by greed; a move to proportional representation politics”
v “News to You Newsletters” have been publishing facts for a discerning public since 1988. Sometimes provocative to stimulate discussion, occasionally “devil’s advocate”, always factual, representing public interests, public opinion and a sincere, informed & forthright approach, that ignoring is at one’s own peril. We have the strength of conviction and courage to do the right thing; no “sacred cows” and “we do not suffer fools lightly”. Helping form the Canadian culture, mosaic & conscience.
v George F. Evens, The Council Advocacy, News To You, all hold “A Reputation for Honesty, Integrity, Persistence, Forthright & Honourable”. They epitomize“Dedication to seeking and speaking the truth in the face of injustice – perceived or real”
v “We bring a strong, loud voice to the thoughts of millions who do not speak for themselves but share our values”
v There is no Solicitation intended and we provide opinion on a wide ranging number of topics, many that are under-reported and thus a massive lack of knowledge exists, that we, as possible try to impart facts to you that you may be better informed to get involved and improve the World we all live in. Opinions are as permitted under the Charter of Rights & Freedoms, “Fundamental Freedoms, such as freedom of conscience, thought, belief, opinion and expression, freedom of the press and other media of communication, freedom of association”.
v While most of you have been receiving our “News To You” as far back as 1988 in the belief you are keen on knowing (facts) and most subscribe & support (opinions) albeit (some) may be remiss or unwilling to “speak-out”, so, in part, may rely upon our forthright approach to represent you.
o Thus, likewise, if you prefer to not receive this document, simply reply with your email address and notation to “unsubscribe” and we shall be pleased to delete your name.
v District of Mission Council – www.mission.ca – watch Council meetings in progress LIVE VIA WEB CAST or check back anytime to view any topic or issue
v COSCO “Council of Seniors Citizens’ Organizations” www.coscobc.ca – 86 affiliated organizations; 202 Associate Members, total 117,000 senior members – The “Joys & Tears Conference” notes now posted – Possibly your Association should join COSCO?
v MISSION SENIORS’ CENTRE ASSOCIATION (MSCA) web.site www.missionseniorscentre.com – ALL SENIORS’ 55+ years of age should consider joining MSCA
v CARP “ – A new vision of aging for Canada www.carp.ca – 60 Chapters, support@carp.ca Possibly your Association may benefit joining CARP?
v OMBUDSPERSON – www.bcombudsperson.ca – A Roadmap To Better Seniors’ Care In B.C., A Summary of BC Ombudsperson Report – 176 detailed recommendations. Subscribe to receive email updates at http://www.ombudsman.bc.ca/subscribe Simply, “The Ministry of Health has, in many cases, failed to fulfill its leadership role for Seniors’ care in B.C.”.
v BC Centre for Elder Advocacy & Support www.bcceas.ca – – check out their many Workshops, such as, “When I’m 64 Benefits/Services/Controlling Affairs”, Elder abuse
v BC Government SeniorsBC http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/theme.page?id=E2F17E8BD56D50D8D4BAA2892C68960F
v BC Health Coalition http://www.bchealthcoalition.ca/content/view/24/83/ 10 pg. Summary Ombudsperson Report; numerous Reports back to 2006
v Tenets we can all live by and succeed together
v As we age and become brilliant of mind we recognize values may improve, we become often more tolerant, we are not impressed nor intimidated by the self-important Politicians. We tend to be more enlightened, not getting caught in our own “Media” and small cliques or silos, as naturally when we are so isolated we only witness the ego-stroking and parroting of cronies, failing to look at the broader pictures and public opinion beyond our own self-interests and supporters. Following are key tenets that guide me
v Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “In the end we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends”
v Edmund Burke offered “Evil will flourish when good men and women stand by and do nothing”
v Mohandas Gandhi said, ”The Greatness of a Nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its Animals are treated”.
v Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has”.