News To You – December

Dear Prime Minister, MP, Premier, MLA, Opposition Party Leaders, Publishers, Editors, Reporters, Columnists, Talk Show Hosts, Mayors & Councillors, CEO/FRASER HEALTH, Mr. David Black, President/CEO Black Press, Police Boards/Assn/Commissioner/Chiefs, Political Associations, Seniors’ Associations, Seniors’ & General Public:

“Our apologies missing the November issue but we felt right to not publish during the Municipal Election Campaign.  We published a Post-Mortem commentary and the Abbotsford TODAY graciously published the full text at www.abbotsfordtoday.ca so you may peruse at your convenience

My wife Claudia & I extend to you and your families our heartfelt best wishes for a MERRY CHRISTMAS, may you all enjoy good health, happiness and success in your personal lives & best wishes for a HAPPY NEW YEARS!

“The resolution we encourage all of you to make, at least one important one, is to become ‘Engaged Citizens’ as it is though “informed Political & Community engagement” we shall overcome apathy.

 

“IN THIS EDITION” – First and foremost, all Canadians need to agree & focus attention on being good “Citizens” and secondly, “Good Citizens” pay “Taxes” and “VOTE” but equally, if not greater, the wide range of services that tax money provides, from health care, policing, environmental protections, roads, transit, funding for arts, animal welfare, education and much more – 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 Past, Present, 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 on the horizon?  

 

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  “A Reputation for Honesty, Integrity, Persistence, Forthright & Honourable”

v  “Dedicated 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  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  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”.

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.  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.

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.  We often start reading Obituaries and Horoscopes.  Three brief examples I will share with you that recently had meaning to me and it may impact upon your lives, the latter I add to tenets that guide me:

• “Listen to your inner voice”- seems to be a good thought for all of us…
• My Horoscope – “A change with regard to an important relationship may be upsetting but in the end it will be good for you.  Don’t trust anyone with your personal secrets.  Keep the peace”.
• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “In the end we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends”

 

Edmund Burke offered “Evil will flourish when good men and women stand by and do nothing”

Mohandas Gandhi said, ”The Greatness of a Nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way in which its Animals are treated”.

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”.

These are some tenets I live by but ask yourself, “why don’t I speak-out”?  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.

             

Rallying Call “Unity in Challenging Times” rings across the land as the ‘sleeping giant’ “Silver Psunami” responds to Seniors’ needs

 

SENIORS’ MATTER – “It is time for all to shake hands”

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.  Spoken from my vantage point to all Seniors’ at the start of a new year.  I believe,” The significant challenge to all Seniors’ and by extension Seniors’ Organizations, like major groups, such as CARP or COSCO who boast thousands of members and many affiliates, is for all of us to harness our collective energies and influences”.

 

“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’.

 

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/ 

 

“EDITORIALLY SPEAKING OF COURSE” BUT–

• Homelessness is an International predicament many people are finding themselves in today.  It, sadly, could happen to you or I or our families, as a result of essentially no fault of our own.  It can be manifested in homeless as a result of our misfortune but similarly is exacerbated when additional factors, like Mental illness or self-inflicted Drug Addiction.  Too many mistreat people with something different, indeed a stigma against mental illness emerges manifested by some less informed ignorant people.  Unfortunately, too many elected in levels of Government seem more inept or outright indifferent to finding solutions and tend to exacerbate the situation and conflict arises, such as at City of Abbotsford “Homeless” dilemma in progress.

o   Drug Addiction, may start with “Harm Reduction” but addicts must be granted counselling and facilities to deal with their problems.  Governments have been remiss to establish adequate facilities to deal effectively and we witness an endless amount of bafflegab instead of action.  Simply, a Health Minister, like most in other portfolios, lacking competence or credibility but equally pro-active mindset to progress, is possibly the major stumbling block, combined with a revolving door scenario of incumbents goes to explaining some of the dilemma the Public face when dealing with incompetence but it sadly manifests in most situations.

o   COSCO (117,000 member Seniors’ organization) 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   Focus upon Mission “The Past – and the age of the dinosaur 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.  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   Focus upon Mission “The Present” – changing but short-lived, in that a “slate” aptly title CRMG replaced the dysfunctional Council, taxes stabilized and some limited improvements commenced, but as fate may have it, cracks of governance appeared and worsened, lack of confidence in the Mayor and subsequent implosion of the slate.  A key architect and author of CRMG was indeed the former Mayor and current MLA but similarly due to some differences of opinion this relationship ceased.  So, great opportunities presented Mission with the chance to renew itself, a new Mayor and Council but political opportunism soon dashed any progress on the horizon, and the now retired former Mayor/MLA was again seeking his place at the trough.  Opportunities for an inclusive Community, new progressive development of downtown/waterfront, needed bypass, new Seniors’ Centre and as important opportunity for Citizens’ to participate in creating a new vision and inclusive community, formation of Mayors Citizen Advisory Committee and overall prospects were not looking too good.

o   Focus upon Mission “The Future” – Election over, the ‘winner’, “recycled” Hawes, the loser Mission, now swept into a time warp circa 1990’s thinking, for four years.  The 2018 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, why at Mission the (thought) popular Atebe regime ended with a perceived dysfunctional Council nearly all turfed out, but one.  Now, the CRMG, even having achieved more than most predecessors, lower taxes and vision underway nonetheless with implosion and self-injury wiped out, but one.  This election has enabled a perpetuation of a perceived “silo” for four years, that may well be on a self-full filling  prophecy in the end, to be mostly case aside, as well.  The most damaging political insight was stated by a new Councillor, sadly remarking, “I’m proud of Mission.  We’ve taken Mission back”, going on to say “believes the new council can work together to move Mission forward”, that while all such rhetoric is commendable of sorts, we must harken back to the many similarly positive comments by successive previous Councils who had the same perspectives until they started on their journey of governance, so, like history, it may repeat itself given the political leadership so devoid of building teams and inclusive communities, when preserving power and bullying of opponents is more the order of the day.  Thus, much of the individual Council members future will be subject to their ethical and moral convictions, their insights to community needs, moral fortitude to do what is right for Mission and not politically expedient or as being “bullied” to comply may dictate, to be responsive to Citizens questions and needs, reluctance to be part of a “silo”, which is a ‘big decision’ to share power with the Citizens’ and not retain within ones of clique – I never did get a response about who “we’ve taken Mission back” is, not a good start eh? 

                               

“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.  As well, to include (some) being the most repugnant people in the World; People who know better and/or (once) being informed “should know better” but instead make a conscious decision, often greed inspired or self-interest ideological motivation but totally devoid of conscience and often outwardly narcissist or psychopathic behaviour.

• Government failure to renegotiate a new Canadian Health Accord to replace expired March 2014 accord.
• Government failure to establish a National Strategy for Seniors’ Care, long-term care, home care, affordable housing, poverty reduction and support for family members, as a national responsibility that Provincial & Municipal governments may augment
• Government failure to establish basic and universal health care, particularly in long-term care facilities to address and control onslaught of Demensia, notably Alzeimers, that will determine adequate protocols dealing with staffing levels, particularly at night, preventing dangerous/assertive patients from accessing other patients, particularly more vulnerable patients unable to protect themselves from abuses
• Government failure to adopt a national Lyme Disease program to diagnose and treat Lyme Disease on a national care basis, in recognition of Elizabeth May, MP, Leader Green Party private members bill in progress, but in addition to adopting her bill to proceed swiftly with a national program of diagnosis & treatment within medicare provisions and payment.
• Government failure to adopt a “Silver Alert” Seniors’ warning system
• Politicians so inept and self-serving while younger fail to recognize their fickle health conditions and thus, rather than act, even in self-preservation mode, but simply and fundamentally fail to recognize we all age, our health, including politicians, can suddenly deteriorate, or that of family members, so why wait and be too late, when a sane minds can adopt needed legislation to meet health care needs, now and the future (these thoughts came to mind as I witnessed two former Premiers now presumably with Alzeimers, mere shells of their former selves and I think of all they might have done to advance health care and now benefit themselves).
• Government & Bureaucrats so inept and insensitive they fail to pay exceptional medical treatment costs, for certain extremely expensive medicines, outrageously costly with no fair justification, no chance patients can afford, yet some idiot bureaucrat denies, shameful at best, thus, time to create a “Medical Review Jurisdiction” to mediate these outlandish denial of payment for a highly specialized and costly medicine.
• It bears repeating, Government failure to raise the bar and standards to reflect Societies expectations of respect & kindness, as entitled Human or Animal Rights, exacerbated by the moribund (Leaders). Thus prevention and no tolerance of Domestic violence toward spouse or children and by extension, toward sentient-beings Animals, that must be removed from “property” provision of the Criminal Code.  Violence must not be tolerated in any form, properly defined with enforcement and penalty provisions dramatically enhanced to meet expectation.  By extension, persons in authority, public office or public role models, such as Sports Teams, must receive severe admonishment, loss of position as not befitting that of a (role model).
• Government failure to pay down the debt by any annual budget surplus, instead they start politicking, trying to buy votes by spending surplus , retaining massive debt, and perpetuating debt that next generations will be burdoned by.  This ought to be a legislated requirement that all surplus go to pay down debt.
• Government remiss to establish Water as a human right to Canadians and rights are not for sale to anyone under any conditions.
• Government failure to recognize the Ferry System as an extension of the road system.  Further, failure to reduce fares to pre-Liberal Government amount in a quest to increase ridership and thus increase profits.  This is a fundamental flaw in the business acumen of current government Ministers & Cabinet, to realize increasing fares is not the only solution nor desired and it is this ignorance of simple economics that is most worrisome to Citizens.  As well, generally income level is often a deciding factor of reasonable charges that can be accepted by the vast majority of Citizens.  This mass increase of most all fees and services, etc., is damaging, in part, to the economy, as those wealthy can absorb and for the most part do so without question.  However, most Citizens are currently at or above levels of costs they can absorb and thus, purchases by most are diminishing to most good and services, often foods, luxury items, discretionary spending and so forth, combined with increasing unemployment, hence diminished profits for example, the Ferry fleet, obvious but to the inept and intransigent Minister who just does not understand or get it.
• Government failure to abandon use and prohibit pesticides that are killing our BEE populations.Take action immediately to prohibit use of Bayer productrs, “FlupyradIfurone, Neonicotinoids, as Human life is more important than Company profits manufacturing these harmful to Bee products, shame on Government and Companies to perpetuate this insane production and ignoring death of Bees our human livelihood.
• “Drug Manufacturing”, decisions to cease ongoing Research and Development or Manufacture of effective Anti-Biotic drugs to eradicate all forms of bacterial infections;
• In all instances, a civic oversight department needs to be created, to investigate with full enforcement powers and in doing so adopt the philosophy “Human, Animal, Land, Air, Water health take precedence over so-called “Port Folio Management decisions” implying ‘Stakeholder Investors take precedence over all else, fundamental principles that must be paramount in the World markets & Governments.
• critical steps must be established, as priorities, like rebuilding trust, respect, empathy and lawful enforcement  Therefore, honesty and good character must be the goals to be accepted.
• Failure of Government to mandate labelling of all GMO products, which the current Oregon Yes on 92 “Public Right to Know” initiative is nearing completion of vote counting.  Companies have donated literally tens of millions of dollars to combat Public initiative, so there must be far more to gain and thus potentially harm Consumers, for such huge sums of funds to be used to try and prevent labelling, right?

While we applaud BC Government appointment of a Seniors’ Advocate per se, we decry the ill-advised approach by the BC Government to create as a member of the Health Ministry, reporting to the Minister, whereas, this must be an independent position, an Independent Officer of the Legislature, such as Child & Family Advocate, Ombudsperson, Auditor General, etc., so we proceed cautiously with support but shall maintain a strong lobby to amend this short-sighted plan.  Seniors’ are becoming a “major political force” and it is obvious Government seek to minimize this (threat) to dictatorial government approach, by not permitting Seniors’ a foundation or effective force, hence (controlling budget, authority and independence) in keeping with the perceived micro-managing exuded by sadly, too many inept MLA’s & Leader, who have failed to create effective governance. Michelle Stilwell, is symptomatic of the contempt some display toward Seniors’ issues and, in part, why we have no confidence or trust in Government actions thus far as having any credibility or sincerity of purpose.

• Government failure to address the serious and growing phenomenon and huge dilemma of “unnecessary, unhealthy noises” of all types, in context and perspective to the harm being caused.  Unlike the ignorance & indifference, not forgetting self-interest, of too many oft described as the “red neck” among us, noise is serious if it causes sleep deprivation, alienates neighbours, destroys enjoyment of one’s home.  It is time for all to realize “because they enjoy noises, like roaaar of dragster, squeal and horns of trains, booooom box or incessantly barking uncontrolled Dog (which illustrates lazy & irresponsible Guardians), noise must be taken more serious as a Community threat;
• Municipal Mayors & Councillors are the major cause of Animal abuses, overpopulations of Cats, cruelty to Dogs, spawning “puppy & kitten mills”, in part, at failing to adopt effective Bylaws, such as but not limited to, “Basic Care & Handling provisions, no Dog tethering, inadequate specification for shelter/runs and fenced yards; inadequate spay & neuter, that without “Breeding Permit” provision is a weak ineffective bylaw”; the second culprit is Veterinarians, who fail to provide low-cost or free spay & neuter clinics/blitzes to eliminate over population, instead monopoly high costs prevent people from taking action, due to cost, to fix their Pet; the third factor is Humane Shelters failing to commit to taking in unwanted Cats, regardless of their situation, simply, the Public rely upon Volunteer Humane Societies to rescue animals and not be told when mustering effort to catch and take the animals to a Shelter, only to be told, “we are full”, which seriously erodes public confidence, diminishes will to donate which seriously can impact on (budgets revenue) and does not bode well for Government funding to continue and finally too expensive to adopt a Cat (often over $ 100.00), which seems to be exacerbated by the folly of some to try and break-even by charging adoption cost to recoup cost of spay or neuter, tattoo, shots which creates a “catch-22” scenario and further stress upon Volunteers to fund raise, given (some where no Animal Control agreement is in place) Municipal Councils are remiss to adequately fund Humane Societies via fee-for-service-grants what it may cost the Municipality to operate the Shelter.
• Government failure to establish National programs, to deal with “Long Term Care Homes” in safe, compassionate facilities (ie: Saskatchewan Care Home model); Permit Seniors to remain in family homes by providing increased Homeowner Grants, dramatically increased Tax Return Pension deductions beyond current $2000.00 Federal or $ 1000.00 BC, to minimum $ 10,000.00 (Age 65) and $15,000.00 (Age 70); to commence a National dementia care plan, include (effective) components of Denmark experience
• Provincial, Municipalities & Cities failure to establish independent civil “Police Boards” to govern Police, with dramatically improved training methods, including compassionate resolution, dealing with Mentally challenged, Homelessness, eliminate excessive force aspects, particularly “deadly force” and a new commitment to “serve & protect” citizens, not employ (bullying tactics) or sense of immune to public scrutiny pursuing “Police State” venue.
• Government failure to prohibit microbeads or microplastics, resulting in massive amounts building up in Coastal water, eventually entering the Human feed chain via Fish humans eat.  Deemed impossible to clean up once in the waterway, these plastics can release toxic chemicals pollutants.  ALL miscobeads must be eliminated from ALL products, as they are not necessary.

• Everyone must come to realize, noises are harmful, hence, “A fundamental understanding that unnecessary incessant noise is unhealthy, harmful to babies, children and adults alike. Noise in any form is a cause of health concerns, whether as intrusive as a hot tub or air conditioner pump at a neighbours, to increasing disturbance of peace and quiet, including sleep deprivation, by boom box stereos, incessantly barking Dogs, train whistles during quiet of night, noisy mufflers of motorcycles or vehicles, to dragster noise, offensive and useless propane cannons used by more inept Farmers instead of effective bird scare devices, they all culminate in creating health problems, from heart conditions, to hearing loss, to sleep deprivation, to neighbour alienation, to disturbing peace & quiet of one’s home. Government failure to adopt legislation to prohibit unnecessary noises is repugnant and dereliction of duty of an elected person to represent Constituents. A more informed look is needed by all, including use of train whistles at controlled crossing and emergency vehicles during nighttime hours when no traffic present, a fundamental understanding that all such noises are impacting upon a families health”.  As well, Citizens need to band together in a common opposition to all unnecessary & unhealthy noises, not as too often occurs, individuals in self-interest selfish mode, try to demean others opposition as not as important as (theirs) implying to condone the other but give sole resolve to their concern (ie; the Citizen disliking train whistles but condoning dragster noise, tries to demean one in his favour and this alienation of too many Citizens plays into the hands of indifferent local Politicians and implications Citizens don’t know what they dislike, due to this lack of common resolve against “all unnecessary unhealthy noises”.
• Government failure to penalize Guardians who take their Pet out in vehicles, or transport unrestrained or protected in rear of pick-up truck (at any time) but specifically on “HOT DAYS” a Pet can be dead in as little as 10 minutes, Guardians need to be fined a minimum $ 500.00 per Animal, for either infraction and Pets perceived in distress may be rescued, including the breaking of a vehicle window by any rescuer and they absolved from all liability.  As well, Government failure to amend the Criminal Code to make “cruelty” a self-evident infraction and no need to prove wilfull, as simply, the obvious condition of cruelty and inhumane actions is self-evident and distress of an Animal self-evident fact.  Proclaiming Animals as sentient-beings, capable of feeling & fearing pain must be established and thus removal of Animals as “property” must be abandoned from Legislation.
• Local Fraser Valley Government failure to adequately fund local Humane & Wild Animal refuge centre’s, notably FVRD (specifically lead Community City of Abbotsford) dismal effort to recognize immense value to the Fraser Valley, that Elizabeth’s Wildlife Centre provide, placing near total accountability upon caring Volunteers to fill the massive funding void created by elected Council.  Not to be outdone, Mission ignores most needs of Fraser Valley Humane Society – one must ask, “is there something in the Fraser Valley water that creates numbness of compassion”?

“New”, 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.  While various studies abound and most gather dust on shelves, the current Downtown/Waterfront revitalization plan demonstrates merit.  Similarly the Seniors’ Task Force has produced valuable and practical ideas that need to be implemented now!  A new “Civic Downtown Centre” is a crucial ingredient

Missions perceived character traits leave much to be achieved, from apathetic, indifferent, self-absorbed, lacking awareness & vision, which sadly, has manifested in many of those we elect, to each level of Government and perpetuates this “beautiful environment & small town flair but too many backwoods mentality” .  But how do we change a mind-set, rid an ideology, create a sense of pride and wonder at new ideas and vision, get our leaders to accept facts and stop being in denial.  In part, we are evolving through old-line thinking, changing political power base, diminished supporters and inaction giving way to a (more) progressive thought and needs approach but an absence of leadership.  Hence, “Branding” may be a necessary evolution step.  The other component is the lack of Public engagement in most every aspect, with such devices to prevent any attempt at being inclusive. Mission is destined to remain largely in a time warp, a divided Community.  Mission is in need of curtailing urban sprawl, environmentally and effective development will remain stalled, yet here to, we find practices and self-interest, not venturing forth to support others, hence perpetuating a divided Community.  Sadly, even our Business Community expecting “shop locally” emotional expectations by Consumers fails to preach inclusiveness, can be found to support (Council) ventures over Citizens, not do their collective homework what Consumers want and then have audacity to expect loyal customers. 

• “In my opinion” I am inclined to believe Chris Turner new book “The war on science” when he concludes “Canada is becoming a ‘narrow, mean place’, a Country “where policy determines the facts and evidence is shaped to fit political goals”,  Like myself, “I hope this revelation makes every Canadian angry”? One fundamental error by the Government was elimination of the vast array of facts needed, by their elimination the long-form census but as we lift the veil, we may find an increasing number of similar retrograde steps to eliminate infrastructures needed by Canadians.
• “In my opinion”,  I believe “COMMUNICATION” skills are the key to success and” TRUST” is the Biggest issue.  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.  Justin Trudeau is perceived a man of “depth, substance and principle” albeit current perceptions may indicate still a little immature as a statesperson but he can be allowed some unintentional indiscretions, in this vein, as not mean-spirited nor malicious in nature, and time will develop skills and maturity needed.  By contrast, Stephen Harper has been touted as a “man of depth, substance & principle” but sadly, epitomizes failure to strengthen and create an inclusive Canada.
• Around the same time we alerted Governments to prohibit use of anti-biotics in Farm Animals, again dismissed and told “not to worry” but now, coupled with an alarming lack of diligence by Doctors among others, the excessive and unnecessary use of anti-biotics for near everything, including untreatable virus, we witnessed a compounding of anti-biotic uses and yes, now “Super Bugs” but sadly, thus far, noone is held accountable, a process we have recommended change and some Government and others suffer enforcement & penalty.  We extend to this list Boards & CEO, as stated elsewhere, of Pharmaceutical Companies, who are maliciously failing Canadians by adopting a “Port Folio Management decision” process, placing all Canadians at risk and we submit this malicious and aforethought known outcome is an act against Humanity and deserves the fullest extent of prosecution under the law, as this mindset and dereliction of trust and responsibility must not go unresolved.

 

• 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, CEO’s of major corporation are fired, Spokespersons of varied organizations are quickly replaced when they themselves come under adverse public scrutiny, Public personalities in Media often lose popularity and “bang they are gone in an instance”, the point being, abuse of power in the public eye will create needed change eventually.  Too often, such as current Federal Government who being self-obsessed and “all powerful” in their view are incurring massive public unrest “just under the surface” and like a volcano eruption will blow at the first opportunity, think next election. Further, while Media is at an all-time low in “dumbing down” media coverage, with notable exceptions, one being the progressivewww.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. 
• “LEARNING PAGE” –   Our story this month reflects 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, but today a commentary on “Seniors’ Financial Abuse” will appear… To start, rather than “reinvent the wheel”, I refer you to an excellent article and study by Vancity Credit Union, titled, “The Invisible Crime: A Report on Seniors’ Financial Abuse”, published athttp://www.missioncityrecord.com/news/282723351.html?print=true

 

FOCUS MISSION & ABBOTSFORD ELECTION NOVEMBER 15, 2014

“We are only limited by the Imagination, Vision & Competence of our Leaders”

• Seniors’ held the balance of power and if we had banded together better, we could elect the new Council

1. NEW TURNOUT TARGET at MISSION 35.0%, actual 33.3%
2. In my opinion both Abbotsford & Mission had the opportunity to win big, remember first is to get a Council majority of members elected, to control all votes, I believe that means:

• elect at least 5 candidates at Abbotsford.  SUCCESS, new Mayor Henry Braun and four Abbotsford First Candidates elected, so significant progress can be made with a more astute, compassionate and progressive Council majority.
• elect at least 4 at Mission.  FAILURE, elected ‘recycled’ Mayor Randy Hawes but “guarded success” with new Councillors.  The greatest opportunity for Mission was to elect Tony Luck, but one of the most astonishingly mean-spirited and vitriolic campaigns, in part, by a couple of zealots on a local social media site exceeded the pale, and implosion of CRMG all contributed to a mean-spirited campaign and sadly, again an established support base came through, albeit only 3068 voted to “recycle” instead of going with new vision and energy, combined with “fringe Candidates” was just enough to squeak a win, to the chagrin of some 21,707 eligible Citizens’ who did not vote for Mr. Hawes and/or vote.

 

 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 – sadly not much change in voter numbers was achieved.

 

“Alarm Bells are ringing but new Council is not listening to Citizens” – Mission Council have joined Fraser Health Authority to impose pay parking at Mission Memorial Hospital in 5 years.  This must prompt expansion of ongoing (current) protest to eliminate pay parking at Hospitals, 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.

 

“NEW” 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 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; include 600 sq ft plus low cost suites up to market value varied accommodations, the sale of which will probably pay Seniors’ Activity Centre facility development cost.  Preferred location adjacent the Leisure Centre, with a ground level shared parking or above/under ground parkade; conversely, incorporate into District owned Welton Commons site, as part of a Civic Complex.

 

• “New Feature” – “What ever happened” –  in the interest of space we will leave this subject blank this edition.

 

Some Important dates to remember

• Thursday DECEMBER 4, 2014, 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.  By sad contrast, the perceived apathy and indifference generally, of voters and notably Seniors’ in this cause, convey weakness of spirit and yes, VOTES, to Politicians more impressed by (numbers), so don’t hesitate and weaken the Seniors’ resolve for recognition, get active and join MSCA now!
• Friday February 6, 2015, Hilton Metrotown, Burnaby (details to follow soon), Forum with Seniors’ Advocate Isabel Mac Kenzie & workshops on key issues to Seniors’.

 

Note: Please email me any important Seniors’ dates throughout the year, that recognize any Seniors’ accomplishment or issues.

Some Important web.sites to become aware of & informed about Seniors’ issues

 

• The Elder Citizen Action Coalition (ECAC) –  www.thecouncilclaw.ca ‘click’ CONTENTS.  The pro-active, private owned & operated “cutting-edge Leadership for Seniors’ in Canada” – Seniors’ unite & organize; NOW  on ECAC site, 23 pictures of the impressive “New” Pitt Meadows Seniors’ Activity Centre  (adjoining  “The Wesbrooke Seniors’Living Community”
• 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
• 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?
• MISSION SENIORS’ CENTRE ASSOCIATION (MSCA) web.site www.missionseniorscentre.com – ALL SENIORS’ 55+ years of age should consider joining MSCA
• CARP “ – A new vision of aging for Canada         www.carp.ca     – 60 Chapters, support@carp.ca Possibly your Association may benefit joining CARP?
• The Council Claw, Advocacy for Animals, to eliminate “Animal Cruelty”                    www.thecouncilclaw.ca refer to CONTENTS and select the issue and area of interest, astonishing “Gallery of Horrors”, to minimum STANDARDS to raise Farm Animals at “Wholesome & Humane Program”, to an array of effective Municipal Bylaws at “Your Direct Action” – leading-edge practices, policies and Legislation to ensure fair treatment of all Animals including your Companion animals (Dogs & Cats).