OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | FALL 2017 | ISSUE 104 FINANCE Time for a portfolio adjustment HEALTH Do you really need that pill? Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 Snowbirding by Sea Cruising all Winter In This Issue
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Editor’s Message CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright FALL 2017 by Medipac International Communications Inc., 180 Lesmill Road, Toronto, Ontario M3B 2T5. (416)441-7000. 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. ISSN No: 1195-2393 Barb & Ron Kroll Dr. Robert MacMillan David McPherson Andrew Moore-Crispin Robert Wiersema Rex Vogel David Blazek Judith Adam Gabrielle Bauer Donna Carter Michael Coren Jennifer Cox Shari Darling James Dolan Illustrator Karen Huestis Ron Steeves John Foster Garry McDonald Rod Seiling Bob Slack James Leroux Robert Herman Ted Popel Wendy Caban Michael MacKenzie Wallace Weylie President First Vice-President Second Vice-President Treasurer Secretary Past President Director Director Director Director Executive Director Legal Counsel CSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Editor CSA Editor President Art Director Director of Sales Director of Operations Marketing & Events Specialist J. Ross Quigley Karen Huestis Chris Bradbury Peter Prusa Neville B. Levin Paula McGovern Fran Castricone FALL 2017 | ISSUE 104 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. ell, the jury is in; the new CSA directors are people whom the membership can be proud of and can support. It is always interesting to watch the Board turnovers as the new guard gets settled in and the old guard partially retires to green pastures. I say partially, because no CSA director has ever just retired. They continue to volunteer at our events and picnics and make themselves easily available to answer questions and give advice. Karen Huestis, our new president, is strong, smart and tough and I think that has surprised some people. She always listens carefully before making any decisions and handles herself with grace and poise in the many political situations which arise. The other “newbies” have jumped in with both feet and have already spoken at several venues to explain and encourage CSA membership. Their original orientation went very well, although it is a lot to absorb in only a few days. They are all smart and, better yet, dedicated to getting things done to improve snowbirds’ lives. What impressed me was the fact that they had all read the extensive Board documentation before the orientation. Their questions were thoughtful and some directors even had suggestions to improve the Directors’ Manuals. Most have already gone into new snowbird areas to which prior Boards had not had access or were unaware, and have made successful presentations, both in Canada and the U.S. Being a CSA director is hard work and requires a lot of personal time and dedication. Your new Board members are ready, willing and very able and we are very fortunate to have them. Please come out tomeet your new Boardmembers at one of CSA’s many events and, inmost cases, the Board can arrange to have a director visit your group or event and give a presentation. Simply call the office. Then you can thank them in person for giving up part of their retirement to help us all. Sincerely, J. Ross Quigley Editor W CSANews | FALL 2017 | 3
Table of Contents Features FALL 2017 | ISSUE 104 OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION 18 24 Snowbird in Residence Spend your winter at sea on an extended cruise. by Barb and Ron Kroll Going Mobile Discover the rich past of the oldest city in Alabama. by Rex Vogel Travel RV Lifestyle 4 | www.snowbirds.org
Table of Contents 28 34 Departments 39 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 40 Golf by David McPherson 42 Book Review by Robert Wiersema 44 Gardening by Judith Adam 46 Food & Drink by Shari Darling 48 CSA Online by Andrew Moore-Crispin 50 CSA Application 51 Benefits 52 Fun & Games 53 Grins & Giggles 54 Fast Facts 3 Editor’s Message 6 Snowbird Alert 8 Bird Talk 10 President’s Message 11 Government Relations Report 12 Canadian Calendar 14 Insurance by Ross Quigley 15 Opinion by Michael Coren 37 Health Pulse 38 Fitness by Jennifer Cox How to rebalance your portfolio After steady gains in the stock market, it may be time to take the money and update your strategy. by James Dolan Drugs and Seniors Research improves. New studies reveal information indicating that it may be time to examine your medication regimen. by Dr. Robert MacMillan Finance Health CSANews | FALL 2017 | 5
SnowbirdAlert Ever wonder why you often get sick during the transition between fall and winter? Colds and flu are very contagious and can spread quickly and easily, especially as we move indoors and spend more time closer together. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and fight cold and flu this fall: Get vaccinated. The best thing you can do to prevent the flu is to get your flu vaccine every year. Flu viruses change each year and experts create a new vaccine to protect you each flu season. You cannot get the flu from the vaccine. Hand-washing. Washing your hands is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. You can spread certain germs just by touching another person, and catch them when you touch contaminated objects or surfaces and then touch your face. Keep shared surfaces clean. Practise proper hand-washing by using an adequate amount of plain soap, rubbing your hands together to create friction and rinsing under running water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Sleep right. Have you ever gotten sick after a week or two of staying up late, only to feel like you have yourself to blame? Sleeping well helps make us healthier and getting your seven-nine hours can do more for your health than you may realize. Sleeping the right amount keeps your immune system healthier, stress levels down and helps your body repair itself. De-stress. Long-term stress puts extra wear and tear on your body, dampening your immune system and keeping you from fighting off illnesses. Studies show that a few simple behaviours can have amazing results in keeping your stress levels low. Unwinding with a hobby, exercising regularly and spending time with friends may help keep your stress levels in check. Take antibiotics as directed by your health-care provider. Remember that antibiotics are only effective in treating bacterial infections and not cold and flu viruses. Taking antibiotics for a cold or the flu won›t help you get better and can contribute to antibiotic resistance. You can also reduce the risks of antibiotic resistance by preventing infection or the spread of infection. Wash your hands often, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, keep your vaccinations up to date and stay at home if you’re sick. Find more information online at canada.ca/flu. Snowbirds planning to drive Interstate-75 to Florida this year, and cross at Windsor, Ontario, should be aware that the southbound lanes just below the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit are closed to all traffic until fall of 2018. The 23-kilometre (14-mile) stretch of the interstate is a major construction site to accommodate bridge replacements and other major repair projects. Apart from some lane restrictions, the northbound lanes are unaffected. Snowbirds crossing at Sarnia and using I-75 through Detroit will be similarly affected. After the border inspection at the bridge, the Michigan Department of Transport has posted detour signs using local interstates to help you around this closure. The detour, however, is time-sensitive since it becomes very busy from 2:30-7:30 p.m. during the week, as rush hour traffic departing from downtown Detroit uses the same route. The detour adds an extra 39 kilometres (24 miles) to your journey, an additional driving time of about 31 minutes. Tips to avoid catching a cold or the flu this fall www.newscanada.com Dave Hunter, author of Along Interstate-75, has prepared detailed maps of a better and shorter detour. Readers with the current 19th edition should visit the book’s update website; see page 3 of the book for the website link. Interstate-75 southbound lane construction in Detroit 6 | www.snowbirds.org
Events Snowbird Join us at a CSA Winter Information Meeting! Snowbird Extravaganza RP Funding Center 701 West Lime St. Lakeland Florida Tuesday and Wednesday, January 30 & 31, 2018 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Winter Texans’ Snowbird Extravaganza Boggus Ford Events Center 3000 N Cage Blvd. Pharr, Texas Tuesday and Wednesday, February 6 & 7, 2018 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Canadian Snowbird Celebration Mesa Convention Center 201 N. Center St. Mesa, Arizona Tuesday and Wednesday, February 13 & 14, 2018 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. All events start at 1:00 p.m. (doors open at noon). For more information or to volunteer, call the CSA at 1-800-265-3200 or visit www.snowbirds.org INDIO, CA Monday, February 19 Fantasy Springs Casino Resort 84245 Indio Springs Parkway WINTERHAVEN, CA Tuesday, February 20 Quechan Casino 525 Algodones Rd. IMMOKALEE, FL Friday, February 23 Immokalee Casino 506 South First St. CLEARWATER, FL Monday, February 26 Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland St. BRADENTON, FL Tuesday, February 27 Bradenton Area Convention Center 1 Haben Blvd. PUNTA GORDA, FL Wednesday, February 28 Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center 75 Taylor Street Hundreds of people and sometimes even thousands attend these one-of-a-kind meetings. Join us for a taste of Extravaganza entertainment, hear presentations from the Canadian Snowbird Association, get a Medipac insurance update and pose questions to the panel right from the audience. SUBJECT TO CHANGE NEW LOCATION CSANews | FALL 2017 | 7
BirdTalk Dear Bird Talk, Many in the snowbird community must be thinking about the use of medical marijuana. Please give us guidelines concerningMedipac and U.S. border regulations. James Butler Oakville, ON Ed.: A great and timely question. DO NOT try to take marijuana into the United States, or anywhere else for that matter. Many countries have severe penalties, including jail and physical punishment, if you are found “importing” drugs. I had Evan Rachkovsky, CSA’s research analyst, check the situation in Florida and he says; “Even with a Canadian prescription for medical marijuana, it would be illegal to cross into the United States with it. Florida recently passed legislation in June to expand access to medical marijuana (it was a ballot issue from the general election – amendment 2). Part of the legislation expands access to seasonal residents, who are defined as any person who temporarily resides in the state for a period of at least 31 consecutive days in each calendar year, maintains a temporary residence in the state, returns to the state or jurisdiction of his or her residence at least one time during each calendar year, and is registered to vote or pays income tax in another state or jurisdiction.” This website may be of interest and I would review specific regulations if you winter in other states. www.usnews.com/news/best-states/florida/ articles/2017-06-09/highlights-of-floridas- expanded-medical-marijuana-bill Dear Bird Talk, Can anyone comment on what happens if you overstay your 182 days in the U.S.? I understand that the IRS can consider you taxable on worldwide income, but do they contact you? Has anyone had this happen to them? If it’s over by a few days, are they still going to make an effort to chase you down? Jay Wilkins London, ON Ed.: Many snowbirds have stayed a little longer and nothing has happened to them, so the “community buzz” is that the government doesn’t know and the government doesn’t care. I can assure you that the government DOES care! In this day and age, their tracking systems are becoming more and more sophisticated and your chances of being caught are increasing. When they do catch you, they usually send a letter asking for information (they already have it, of course). You are then caught up in their investigation, which is very intrusive. I am personally aware of a few cases in the West, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxes and penalties. A lifetime travel ban was also part of the possible penalty. Dear Bird Talk, In the spring, 2017 CSANews Issue 102, I questioned if any travel health insurance company covered travel in Canada at a reasonable rate. You responded that “the Medipac Annual plan covers unlimited 23-day trips anywhere in the world and also covers you for up to six months in Canada when outside your province of residence.” My 2016-2017 Medipac Travel Insurance Guide clearly states on page 12 that you are covered for only 90 days for travel in Canada. Could you please clarify? Victor Wall Lac du Bonnet, MB Ed.: Absolutely, this was a mid-term increase in our benefits (from 90 days to 182 days) and we did not think it practical to reissue tens of thousands of policies. If we reduced benefits, which we try not to do, then we would naturally have to notify you. The 2017 Early Bird guide reflects the new benefits and the policy does, as well, on page 29. Six months is correct. Dear Bird Talk, If Canadian snowbirds can’t deduct their “allowed days” during short times back in Canada (i.e. for Christmas) unless the visit lasts for 30 days or longer...do the U.S. regulations also state for any SHORT trips by Canadians INTO the U.S. (say for taking a seven-day cruise out of a U.S. port and then returning to Canada after the cruise), that these trips LESS than 30 days ALSO do NOT count towards our 182-day limits??? If not, this legislation is totally one-sided! Trevor Metcalfe Collingwood, ON Ed.: To clarify, there are no days counted if you are “in transit.” If you leave from Canada and return to Canada, but stay overnight in, say, Miami on the way there and back, these days DO NOT count. You are in transit. Your cruise is an excellent example. Most legislation is a mess in any event. Dear Bird Talk, I submit the IRS Form 8840 annually, but do not receive any confirmation from the IRS that it has been received. Is there any way to determine whether the IRS has received this form? Peter Nigel Bradbury Toronto, ON Ed.: The IRS is unresponsive on this and will not, or cannot, confirm the receipt of Form 8840. At one point I recommended that, to be safe, you could use registered mail, but I do not think that this is necessary.You should, however, keep good records of your submissions in case there is ever an IRS question. Dear Bird Talk, Regarding the 30-day absence rule, I have recently had a fellow snowbird informme that they have been told that you must actually return to Canada in order for those days not to be counted toward your U.S. time as opposed to travelling, for example, toMexico for 30 days. Can you clarify this for me? Nancy Rosse Campbell River, B.C. Ed.:We must first clarify that a U.S. border guard has enormous power and basically can do anything he or she wants. They can bar you from the U.S., restrict your trip to 10 days or 60 days, or do whatever they feel like that day. Based on our information, any absence of more than 30 days is NOT counted as time in the U.S. It does not matter where you go. Mexico is fine. Dear Bird Talk, My wife and I enjoy the information and articles found in your magazine. However, I keep being disappointed at the lack of diverse representation depicted in the individuals represented in your articles and features.The most recent issue [summer 2017] is a case in point: there is diversity on the back cover for the Medipac ad and one person represented on page 39 – and she is out of focus because of the nature of the photograph. 8 | www.snowbirds.org
BirdTalk 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: csawriteus@snowbirds.org Bird Talk Come on, folks – this is Canada’s sesquicentennial – show the true faces of our great country and represent all Canadians. Clary Croft Nova Scotia Ed.: I decided to review a few of our past issues for diversity and it appears that you are correct. I will speak to our picture “deciders” and see if we can’t improve in this area. I also printed your letter so that everyone could see “sesquicentennial” in writing and know how to spell it. I am still practising. Dear Bird Talk, If my wife and I visit Arizona for five months every calendar year (say Nov. 1-March 31) and file an 8840 every year, will we be subject to U.S. taxes based on worldly income? Our U.S. tax accountant in Canada says that it is very possible and recommends to not spend more than 120 days every year in the U.S. Marvin Frederickson Courtenay, B.C. Ed.: No, of course not! If youearn income in the U.S., youDOhave to file a U.S. tax return, though. Many people confuse the 120 days indicated on the Form 8840 with the six months you are allowed to stay in the U.S. The 8840 should be filed if you spend more than 120 days in the U.S. and I would personally file it if you are over 90 days. The completed 8840 tells the government that you are not a U.S. resident, but a Canadian resident, that`s all really. There is no risk in filing, although some people will tell you otherwise. You are allowed to spend six months (182 days) in the U.S. in any 12-month period. Notice that this is not in a calendar year, but in any rolling 12-month period. Your five-month holiday is perfect and very proper. Dear Bird Talk, We own a home in Arizona and have two vehicles registered and insured there. We have always maintained full insurance on the vehicles, even if we don’t use them for six months. I am assuming that there is a way to put them in “storage” status and save $$ on insurance. What do other people do in this situation? Heather Curts Calgary, AB Ed.: The simple way to do this is to drop the driving coverages and just leave comprehensive insurance (fire and theft, basically) on your vehicles. Different companies have different ways of dealing with this and call it different things, but they all understand dropping the driving coverages. Some will refund your money right away and others will hold it until you reinstate the driving coverages. Dear Bird Talk, Being from the Okanagan, I was delighted to read your article about the South Okanagan. However, I was disappointed that you didn’t go slightly further to the lovely town of Summerland. In addition to many beautiful sights, wineries and beaches, it is the home of the Kettle Valley SteamRailway. This heritage train is almost 105 years old and is a delightful ride featuring a great commentary, banjo player, etc. During the summer months ‒ on selected Sundays ‒ it also features a Great Train Robbery from which all money goes to charity. It also includes a delicious dinner. Well worth adding to anyone’s vacation list. Sharon Unrau Summerland, B.C. Ed.: It is now on my bucket list. Thanks. Dear Bird Talk, I enjoy reading the various questions and answers re: Dear Bird Talk. One answer caught my attention in the summer 2017 issue 103. It was mentioned that, sometimes, a border guard will only allow you 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 90 days are up. What would be the circumstances in which they would do this? Thanking you in advance. Faye McDermott Wakefield, QC Ed.: I have found no rationale for the many and varied decisions given by border guards. It appears that their mood and the kind of day they have had can be a factor. Did they have a fight with their spouse that morning? One person was limited to 90 days when she stated that she was going to stay for 182 days. The guard decided that she was trying to “game” the system and said that you can only legally stay for six months, not 182 days. Then he displayed his power by stating that, in your case, he was only allowing 90 days. She started to argue about the six-month rule and he was quite blunt and said it can be zero days if she complains further. She got a piece of paper saying that she had to be out of the U.S. on a specific date, 90 days after crossing, and had to hand in the paper on the way out. She left on day 89 to be sure – a wise decision. Always be courteous and answer direct questions directly, and as briefly as possible. Trying to make friends will only make them suspicious, unfortunately. There is really nothing to worry about as 98% of border crossings are routine. My one bad experience was with the Canada Customs border guards. My wife and I were crossing into New Brunswick from Maine with my 80-ish-year-old parents in the back seat of a 15-year-old Cadillac.We all had to get out of the car and wait for about three hours while they tore the car apart. They charged us $8 in tariffs of some kind and we were on our way. Maybe they just liked the old car! CSANews | FALL 2017 | 9
President’s Message Karen Huestis CSA President Welcome to the fall edition of CSANews. Unfortunately, this means that summer is coming to an end, but the good news is that we will soon be on our way to our winter homes. Last winter, we heard a great deal about some of the economic challenges travelling to the United States presented for Canadian travellers, but there is definitely some good news to report. Did you know that Canadians are purchasing American properties in record numbers? Canadians spent US$19 billion between spring 2016 and spring 2017, an all-time high, according to a report from the U.S.-based National Association of Realtors. As we go to press, the Canadian dollar is trading at 80 cents, up nearly 10 per cent from early May alone. Over the last two-and-a-half months, our dollar has been the world’s best-performing major currency. Obviously we can’t predict the future, but these are both encouraging signs for the upcoming snowbird travel season. Speaking of which, here are a few things to keep in mind while you prepare for your trip south, if you are headed to the United States. For tourism purposes, Canadian citizens are permitted to spend up to a maximum of six months less a day (182 days) in the United States in a 12-month period. The 12-month period generally begins on your admission date to the United States and concludes one year later. For example, if you entered the U.S. on November 1st of 2017, then October 31st of 2018 would be your one-year period. The decision to allow entry into the United States is made at the discretion of the U.S. immigration officer. If you are already present in the United States and you leave for Canada or take a cruise outside of the United States, for fewer than 30 days, and you return to the United States, your departure may be included in your 182-day total.The U.S. Customs and Border Protection officerMAYrule, at their discretion, that your absence was not of sufficient duration to “stop the clock.” The CSA’s recommendation is to err on the side of caution and to treat short trips back home or abroad that are fewer than 30 days in duration, as if you never departed the United States. Finally, for most travellers to the United States, passports must be valid for six months beyond their departure date. This does not apply to Canadian citizens‒ passports only need to be valid for the duration of their trip. However, if you will be travelling abroad, you should verify passport requirements of your travel destination, as these will vary. Some countries may require you to have a passport which is valid for three or six months beyond your departure date. The Snowbird Lifestyle Presentations are right around the corner. This September, we begin our tour in Ontario with stops in Richmond Hill, St. Catharines, Parry Sound and Nepean. Following our Ontario shows, we head to the East Coast for shows in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Moncton, New Brunswick and Halifax, Nova Scotia. As always, admission to these shows is free. Along with professional musical entertainment, they are a great source of information regarding most aspects of the snowbird lifestyle and, if you have a question we don’t have an answer for, rest assured that we’ll find it for you. Specific dates and times are available on our website at snowbirds.org. If you have any questions regarding the shows, please don’t hesitate to contact the office. Recently, some members have contacted the office asking if they are permitted to perform volunteer community service while in the United States. Admitted travellers are permitted to perform volunteer community service, provided it truly is “volunteer”- such as working in a hospital, community recreation centre or place of worship. There can be no pay or compensation received other than perhaps free refreshments/meal and/ or free parking while performing the service. Entering the United States as a tourist class visitor without a valid U.S. work permit does not permit any form of paid work, regardless if payment is in the form of cash, cheque or “in consideration” of some benefit which has a monetary value. On behalf of my husband Bill and I, safe travels and, hopefully, we’ll have a chance to meet at one of our many events. 10 | www.snowbirds.org
Government Relations Report Ron Steeves First Vice-President On July 27, 2017, Congressional Representatives Elise Stefanik (R-NY-21) and Ted Deutch (D-FL22) reintroduced the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act ‒ bipartisan legislation to extend by two months the time for which Canadians who own or lease a home/accommodation in the United States can travel in the United States. As Canadian tourists spend more than $5 billion annually in the state of Florida alone, it’s not hard to understand why Congressman Deutch is co-sponsoring this legislation. Congresswoman Stefanik, the youngest woman ever elected to Congress, represents a border community in New York State. If you are a Canadian who spends six months during the winter in the United States, inmost cases you would not be eligible to visit the United States again for another six months. This obviously has a tremendous effect on the economies of U.S. border communities and is a key reason Representative Stefanik has agreed to co-sponsor this legislation. It is also a key reason we think Congressional representatives from ANY state that wants to increase Canadian tourism, particularly during the summer months, will be supportive of this legislation. Another bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives prior to the August recess was theBorder Security for America Act, H.R. Introduced by CongressmanMichael McCaul (R-TX-10) with 44 original co-sponsors, this bill, among other things, directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement biometric exit-entry systems at all points of entry into the United States. Though this proposal has been deliberated for years inWashington, the most recent iteration comes from an executive order signed by President Trump at the end of January which called for “the completion and implementation of a biometric entry-exit tracking system for all travellers to the United States.” While the details of what such a systemwould entail are not included in the bill, older biometric systems have been based on fingerprint collection and, with today’s technology, systems can be constructed to recognize individual faces and voiceprints. The proposal received a significant amount of push-back from northern border Congressional representatives, such as Congressman Chris Collins (R-NY-27), who cited unnecessary disruptions to both Canadian and American citizens. In a letter to then-Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly, Congressman Collins wrote that “biometric entry-exit scanning at our northern border would significantly delay the daily commutes of hard-working Americans and Canadians and cause undue burdens on trade.” Fortunately, as a result of these concerns, the Border Security for America Act exempts Canadian and American citizens from the biometric requirement. The CSA continuously monitors legislative and regulatory proposals on both sides of the border which would impact members, to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information necessary to stay ahead of any pending policy changes. On August 3, 2017, the United States Senate confirmed Kelly Craft as the newU.S. ambassador to Canada. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Senator from Kentucky (where Ms. Craft is also from) issued a statement congratulating her on the appointment and confirmation. “Our two nations share more than a border; we have a heritage of trade and security relations that benefit us both,” he said. “As a proven advocate for our national interests, Kelly will use her position to continue the long history of friendship between the United States and Canada. I appreciate her willingness to serve our country once again, and I know that she will make Kentucky proud.” In 2007, Ms. Craft was appointed as a member of the U.S. delegation to the United Nation’s 61st Session of the General Assembly. Craft advised the American ambassador to the U.N. on a range of issues, including U.S. engagement in Africa. She is also the first woman to serve as the U.S. ambassador to Canada. The Canadian Snowbird Association has a long history of good working relations with former U.S. ambassadors to Canada and we congratulate and look forward to working with Ambassador Craft. In March, the Saskatchewan government announced that it was raising the rate of provincial sales tax from five per cent to six per cent and that it would now apply to all insurance products, including medical travel insurance. In July, we sat down with the Saskatchewan Health Minister the Hon. Jim Reiter and expressed our strong disapproval with respect to this measure. Minister Reiter appreciates our concerns but, at this time, the government is unfortunately proceeding with this measure. I can tell you that this government has never faced the level of opposition which they are facing now regarding some of the announcements that they made in their last budget. It may well be one of the reasons Premier Brad Wall has announced that he is now retiring from politics. We will ensure that this issue remains front and centre in the Saskatchewan party’s race to elect a new leader, who would presumably spend some time as the new premier prior to the next provincial election. CSANews | FALL 2017 | 11
Canada Clubs University of Guelph Florida Alumni - 2018 Events February 7, 2018 - mid morning (exact time to be determined) Mote Marine Sarasota Florida Sea Life Encounter Excursion, 1hr 45 min. Relaxing cruise on Sarasota and Roberts Bays. Discover the diverse sea life living in the local grass flats. Cruise costs $29. Lunch at a local restaurant to be followed by a short planning meeting for the March picnic. Reserve with Larry Thompson 613-402-4411 or email larry_t@bell.net by January 18/18 March 7, 2018 - Annual picnic at Maple Leaf Estates, Port Charlotte FL. Feature speaker Dr. Rene VanAcker, Dean OAC. Registration at 10:30 a.m. Info: Larry Thompson, ON (613) 402-4411, larry_t@bell.net Clearwater/St. Petersburg OPP Veterans’ Association – Suncoast Annual Luncheon Wednesday, March 7; Meet and Greet at 12:15 p.m.; luncheon at 1:00 p.m. Cody’s Original Roadhouse, 26210 U.S. 19 North at Enterprise Road, Clearwater, FL. Minimum of 60 people required for this event; please contact Liz to register. Info: Liz Wickund, FL (727) 530-9438, lizbillwicklund@aol.com Toronto Police Retirees Reunion Wednesday, March 7, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Banquet Masters, 13355 49th Street North. This is the 26th-year reunion. Cost is $20.00 per person. Payment information will be circulated at a later date. Info: William Fordham (cell) (705) 351-1966, Florida phone number to follow. william_fordham@yahoo.com; Hugh Ferguson, FL (727) 391-1083, hgano1036@hotmail.com; Gary & Muriel Hooper, FL (727) 943-2512, muriel853@yahoo.com Canadian Club Gulf Coast Florida Join our happy group of retired Canadians who meet monthly over the snowbird season at Banquet Masters, 13355 49th Street North. (SE corner at Ulmerton Rd.), St. Petersburg, FL. We enjoy Canadian talk, tasty refreshments, a wonderful meal, and great speakers. Our first lunch for 17/18 is Wednesday, 22 November; doors open at 11:00 am. We also have a pleasant inexpensive weekly golf group. Special events include: Dinner/Theater Nights, Santa Claus, Museum Trip, Blue Jays Baseball Game. Come and have some fun meeting new people. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, or info@ccgcfl.org RCMP Annual Picnic Thursday, March 1, at 11:00 a.m. at Sand Key Park, Site 2 in Clearwater Beach. Come and have a great time! Bring your own “everything” event. Members and guests are all welcome. Info: Jack Burbridge, ON (613) 824-2513, FL (727) 729-4565 after January 15. Royal Canadian Legion, Eastern Zone USA, Pinellas County Post 144 Our busy winter 17/18 schedule begins with five (5) events in November; 5th (parade), 11th (at MacDill AFB), 18th (Dinner/Theater), 20th (Meeting), and 25th (Picnic). We meet at Turner-Brandon American Legion Post 7, 1760 Turner St., Clearwater, FL. You will forever remember honouring our fallen comrades by dedicating your poppy at the Remembrance Service at MacDill AFB, hosted by the Canadian, British, and French CENCOM Representatives, with our RCL Post 144 Colour Party. To attend, contact Dann by 15 Oct ’17 for security vetting. Then we are into our ongoing meetings, dance (w/Santa), levee, invasion, potluck parties and any other excuse to get together to be Canadian. Whether you are a snowbird looking for something interesting to do, or are already a Legion member, come and join us for some up-home comradeship. Also, look for our booth at the Snowbird Extravaganza in Lakeland. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, or rcl@galt.biz CANADIAN CALENDAR 2017/2018 Please note: Always contact the information person listed for exact details, such as time and location. FLORIDA ARIZONA Buckeye Canada Day Party at Sundance Adult Village Saturday, January 27. Canadian games start at 1:00 p.m.; potluck dinner, dance and entertainment at 6:00 p.m. Open to all residents and guests of Sundance Adult Village. Info: Dennis O’Hare, oharedj@gmail.com Yuma RCAF Veterans Luncheon Friday February 2. Doors open at 11:00 a.m., luncheon at 12:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 19, 2575 S Virginia Drive, Yuma, AZ. Contact Barry or Lynn Ryan to purchase tickets. Info: Barry or Lynne Ryan, AZ (928) 248-4583 lynnebarry@shaw.ca HAWAII Kailua, Kona Annual Canadian Potluck Thursday, January 25 at 4:00 p.m. in the large pavilion at the north end of the old airport. Please bring a dish to share, your own plates and cutlery, and beverages. A few picnic tables are available, but to be guaranteed a seat please bring your own chairs. Info: 403-256-6000, ethabs@hotmail.com 12 | www.snowbirds.org
Canada Clubs The phone number for placemat orders is 1-877-888-2505 Oh, say canyou see by thedawn'searly light What soproudlywehailedat the twilight's lastgleaming? Whosebroad stripesandbright stars thru theperilous fight, O'er the rampartswewatchedwere sogallantly streaming? And the rocket's redglare, thebombsbursting inair, Gaveproof thru thenight thatour flagwas still there. Oh, saydoes that star-spangled banneryetwave O'er the landof the freeand thehomeof thebrave? STARSPANGLEDBANNER OCanada! Ourhomeandnative land! Truepatriot love inall thy sons command. Withglowinghearts we see thee rise, TheTrueNorth strongand free! From farandwide, OCanada, we standonguard for thee. Godkeepour land gloriousand free! OCanada, we standonguard for thee. OCanada, we standonguard for thee. OCANADA! Arizona California Florida LakelandCenter Lakeland Florida McAllenConventionCenter McAllen Texas Toorderplacemats foryour social function,call theCSA/Medipacplacemat lineat 1-877-888-2505orvisit www.snowbirds.org. HaveaGreatTimeToday! SeeyouatanExtravaganzanearyou! MesaConventionCenter Mesa Arizona TheVoiceofTravellingCanadians. Ifyou'renotamember,becomeone! 1-800-265-3200 www.snowbirds.org Yourworld isunique. We insure it. 1-800-267-8000 Enjoy the freedomof the snowbird lifestyle. Callus…beforeyou travelagain! 1-888-MEDIPAC www.medipac.com Securecross-borderbanking. Preferred rates.$0-5 transfer fees. 1-800-265-3200 www.SnowbirdExchange.com They are FREE and make wonderful table accessories for your Canadian event. To get your supply of placemats, choose one of the following options: ●● Visit us online at www.snowbirds.org ●● Send an e-mail to placemats@medipac.com CSA/MEDIPAC PLACEMATS Order Now! Ellenton/Bradenton Canadian Club of Colony Cove Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in Manatee Hall, beginning in November and ending in March. Annual events include a breakfast before the meeting in January, Can/Am golf tournament in January and a dinner/dance in February. The Farewell Picnic takes place in March and includes games and prizes. Info: Robert Vail, robert.pei13@gmail.com Panama City Beach Canadian Snowbird Luncheon Friday, February 23, 12:00 p.m. at Harpoon Harry’s in Panama City Beach. You can pick up tickets at Harpoon Harry’s. Info: Nancy Hopcraft, FL (850) 233-8376 after January 1. Port Charlotte Canadian Club of Port Charlotte Second Thursday of each month, at 11:30 a.m.; November through March. Held at the Cultural Center of Charlotte County, 2280 Aaron St. Info: Hazen Walters, NL (709) 535-1971, FL (941) 624-2073 hazenwalt@aol.com Lakeland, FL Royal Canadian Legion, Eastern Zone USA There is a movement afoot to organize a Royal Canadian Legion Post in Lakeland, FL. 17/18 season Meetings are on Thursdays, starting 16 Nov; 7:00 p.m. at American Legion Lakeland Post 4, 1375 Ariana St., Lakeland, FL. Come to learn what is happening, and maybe help us grow with lots of picnics, dances, invasions, and potluck parties throughout the snowbird season. We’ll also be at the CSA Florida Snowbird Extravaganza in Lakeland, 30/31 Jan ’18. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, or rcl@galt.biz Zephyrhills, FL Royal Canadian Legion, Eastern Zone USA Another group is organizing a Royal Canadian Legion Post in Zephyrhills, FL. Our 17/18 season Meetings will be Tuesdays, starting 21 Nov; 7:00 p.m. at American Legion Zephyr Post 118, 5340 8th St., Zephyrhills, FL. Come to learn what is happening, and maybe help us grow with lots of picnics, dances, invasions, and potluck parties throughout the snowbird season. We’ll also be at the CSA Florida Snowbird Extravaganza in Lakeland, 30/31 Jan ’18. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, or rcl@galt.biz TEXAS Mercedes Llano Grande Lake Resort Picnic Dinner/dance February 5. Picnic March 7. Cost of tickets includes food and beverages. Open to all Canadians living in Llano Grande Lake Resort. Info: Ron Cave, ON (519) 524-5097, TX (956) 246-7063 CSANews | FALL 2016 | 13
J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc. Insurance North and South; there is trouble and suffering everywhere. Let us all take a few minutes to remember those people ravaged and displaced by the enormous and out-of-control wildfires in British Columbia. Kelowna is the most threatened area as we go to press and the surrounding areas, in which many, many snowbirds live, are being hit the hardest. Pray for rain and a lot of it. A few hundred miles south, where many snowbirds winter, is a disaster occurring of the opposite kind. The entire southern coast of Texas has been rocked by high winds and unrelenting rain and it is flooded. This is Hurricane Harvey, one of the worst tropical storms in years. It built up to a Category 4 storm as it made landfall and hung around far too long for comfort, dropping more than three feet of rain in some hard-hit areas. Houston, the fourth-largest city in the United States, is flooded and it is about 40 miles inland. We can only imagine the coastal damage at this point, but some forecasters are predicting that it will be more than 10 years before things can return to normal. Many of these displaced people are our friends, so let us help them out as much as we can. And, for those of us who own property along the Texas coast, we will just have to wait and see. There may be an opportunity for Medipac to get “on the ground” in Texas later next week and, if so, we will try to get our photographers there to get pictures of the properties which we can identify. We are all so lucky just to be here! But back to travel medical insurance for just a minute. I would like to confirm the amazing success of our Early Bird Program this year. We have written more insurance for more snowbirds than ever and that is after accounting for our Canadian Snowbird Association Special 25th Anniversary discount. Medipac contributed $25 in premium to every snowbird who purchased our Early Bird Program this year. That’s $50 per family and I am sure that you will use it wisely. Medipac will also waive our cancellation fees for any snowbirds who have to cancel their insurance due to the Texas storms. I do urge you to find a new spot to land in Texas, though, as they will need our support more than ever this year. We will be donating $10,000 to help out in British Columbia and a second $10,000 to assist in Texas. Although not much, every little bit helps. I had some interesting stories to tell you about travel medical insurance, but they will have to wait until our winter issue. My staff is hovering ‒ waiting for me to submit my stories and Bird Talk ‒ so I have to go now but I will see you in the south, somewhere. Be safe and travel safely, but remember to travel with Medipac and, to quote our 2017 Travel Insurance Guide… “Medipac is more than an insurance policy…much, much more!” Thank you for your incredible support. 14 | www.snowbirds.org
Opinion with Michael Coren Proximity can lead to indifference. Or, to put it another way, there is a danger of taking what is close for granted. I say this because in the Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Ontario, we have in Canada one of the finest theatre companies and drama festivals in the world and, while many of us know this, it’s extraordinary how often I meet people who have never been. What a tragedy that is. What we sometimes forget is that Stratford is within fairly easy driving distance for millions of Canadians. Even for those further afield, a short flight and a motel or hotel for a couple of nights is still a bargain – book for three or four shows and maybe move on to Toronto afterwards. I’ve been visiting the place for almost 30 years now and the standard of production, depth of cast, and skill and variety of performance has gone up each year. We tend to use the description “world-class” too often in Canada but, in this case, it genuinely applies. Take this latest season for example. Romeo and Juliet is an extremely difficult play to perform effectively for contemporary audiences. They know or assume that they know it well, and some of the romance can be misinterpreted as humour. This one was done superlatively, with Sara Farb in particular quite startlingly good as Juliet, as she managed to mingle childlike infatuation, maturing emotion and love, and absolute pathos. There wasn’t a weak player in the entire drama. Believe me, I’ve seen some renderings of Romeo and Juliet that ache with misunderstanding and clumsiness. Then there is Guys and Dolls, once again about a romantic relationship, but totally different in almost every other way. It’s a musical, it’s set in post-war New York, and most of us know the songs. Good Lord it worked well. Fresh, beautifully choreographed, expertly sung and acted. Or throw inThe School for Scandal, a late 18th-century British comedy based on social observations that could, if not handled so adroitly, be a little mannered and contrived. Here, it was as relevant and biting as if it were written last week. It’s compellingly funny and relentlessly vibrant. These were only three of the numerous offerings. This season, the festival is offering Twelfth Night, Tartuffe, The Breathing Hole, The Komagata Maru Incident, HMS Pinafore, Treasure Island, Timon of Athens, The Virgin Trial and The Madwoman of Chaillot, among others. That’s fairly typical in number and content – in other words, there is something for almost everybody. While Shakespeare is obviously the heart of the body, the festival is not exclusive in its scope. Having said that, do try at least one of their Shakespearean productions. Of course, he is sometimes tarnished by the pretentious types and the snobs who are out there, but he wrote for everybody and unquestioned genius is never stale. Some of the actors are regulars, other young and new, but the mix of experience and youth is one of the many strengths of the place. As is, by the way, the versatility of those involved. Remember, these people are doubling up on roles that are enormously diverse and demand different and various skills. I reviewed plays in London, England for a number of years before I came to Canada and I’ve seen some of the finest actors, in the hands of some of the best directors in the world, and what we have in Ontario can compare to any of it. The town itself has similarly developed and, almost every year, some new store or restaurant or park seems to appear or expand. While weekends are very busy, there is far less traffic – people as well as cars – during the week and this is wonderful walking as well as watching country. Beyond the three theatres – the Avon, Tom Patterson and the Festival ‒ and the cafes, eateries and shops, there is the natural beauty of the river and the paths. Have lunch or dinner, but it’s often worth booking for the latter, or maybe take a hamper and have a picnic by the water. Perhaps book for a 2 p.m. show, then have a meal, then an 8 p.m. production. I’ve grown to love Stratford very much indeed and don’t know anybody who hasn’t done the same, once they’ve been. Sometimes the best things in life are a lot closer than we think. CSANews | FALL 2017 | 15
With SimplyConnect’s new Canada/U.S. plans, your phone, rates, and number are the same whether you are in the U.S. or in Canada. These plans are perfect for Canadian Snowbirds who travel back and forth between Canada and the U.S. Off to the U.S. for a month? For 3 months? You never have to worry about cross-border calling costs, switching plans, temporary numbers or changing SIM cards ever again. • Seamless cell phone servicewhen you cross the border from Canada to the U.S. and back again. • Your plan goes with you. No need to contact SimplyConnect about your travel plans. • Use your existing cell phone andnumber when travelling. • No need to unlock your phoneor switch SIM cards. • No expensive roaming fees while you’re in the U.S. • Stay connected instantly with friends and family at all times in either country. Call SimplyConnect to inquire about the Canada/U.S. plans. Simply pick the best plan for you to stay connected with your family and friends. Enjoy using your phone in Canada and while traveling in the U.S. You will not notice any change in service when you cross the border. Not only do you get the ease of continuing to use your plan, your number and your phone while away, your friendly and Canadian customer service team is also just a free phone call away should you have any questions. To learn more about these convenient Canada/U.S. plans, call our dedicated live agents today at 1-877-931-2266 or visit simplyconnect.ca. s summer turns to fall, Canadian Snowbirds begin planning to go South for the winter. Whether it’s for a month or the whole season, preparing for a trip to the U.S. is a ritual of arranging health care coverage, home security, travel insurance and making sure finances are accounted for. These are all essential to a trouble-free trip but one thing that’s easy to overlook is your cell phone plan. In the past, cross-border cell phone coverage could include locating a U.S. cell phone company, getting a U.S. plan as well as a temporary number to use while away and possibly unlocking your Canadian cell phone or having to buy a new whole cell phone. It was a hassle… until now. A CANADA/U.S. PLANS BENEFITS HOW IT WORKS CONTACT US 1 2 3 ?
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