Publication mail agreement no: 40063603 TRAVEL Real-life fairy tale castles FINANCE Dealing with what-if scenarios HEALTH Is snoring disrupting your sleep? In This Issue OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION | FALL 2018 | ISSUE 108
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Editor’s Message CSANews© is published four times a year and is Copyright Fall 2018 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 Dave Hunter Barb & Ron Kroll Dr. Robert MacMillan David McPherson Andrew Moore-Crispin Robert Wiersema Rex Vogel Judith Adam Gabrielle Bauer Donna Carter Michael Coren Jennifer Cox Shari Darling James Dolan 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 Christopher Davidge Peter Prusa Neville B. Levin Paula McGovern Fran Castricone FALL 2018 | ISSUE 108 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS We acknowledge the support of the Government of Canada. Sometimes I think that we snowbirds are the only sane people left on earth. We have a wonderful lifestyle and are relatively free of “interventions” in our affairs and travels. Looking out the window, we see insane political wars, both in the United States and Canada, and everywhere else for that matter. And dozens of real wars in every part of the world. Racism and hate seem to be the order of the day, but not for us. Weather, what weather? All we have are crises (I had to look that word up), from one storm, to the next tornado, to the next flood, to the next massive heat wave. Did I mention the hundreds of out-of-control forest fires? And erupting volcanoes? And earthquakes? When we think of climate warming, now climate change, we think of cities in China where you can’t see your next-door neighbour, or islands in the Pacific that are disappearing due to rising sea levels, and rivers that have flooded to extreme historic levels, displacing millions of people. What you do not think of is going down in an elevator in the middle of Toronto and ending up in the basement with water up to within one foot of the elevator ceiling. The two men involved were rescued, almost by luck. We should also not forget that some snowbirds have had their homes burned to the ground. But, with a little medical assistance on occasion, we snowbirds generally lead very active and happy lives. We seem somewhat insulated from the disasters of the real world. We should all pause and thank our God and, if that does not work for you, then you should thank your lucky stars. J. Ross Quigley Editor Dave Blazek Illustrator CSANews | FALL 2018 | 3
Table of Contents Features FALL 2018 | ISSUE 108 OFFICIAL NEWS MAGAZINE OF THE CANADIAN SNOWBIRD ASSOCIATION 20 Fairy-Tale Castles & Storybook Villages Enjoy a worry-free cruise along the Rhine & Mosel Rivers from the Netherlands through Germany and France to Switzerland by Barb and Ron Kroll Travel 30 How to ask “what if?” with your portfolio Finance 26 A Florida Commute for Snowbirds Travel writer Dave Hunter finds out what happens to commuter services when all of the workers are tucked up in their downtown offices. by Dave Hunter Asking tough questions to ensure your portfolio survives a variety of market and life risks by James Dolan 4 | www.snowbirds.org
Table of Contents 36 40 Departments 45 Health Pulse 46 Fitness by Jennifer Cox 47 Book Review by Robert Wiersema 48 Golf by David McPherson 50 Longevity by Jennifer Cox 52 Gardening by Judith Adam 54 Food & Drink by Shari Darling 56 CSA Online by Andrew Moore-Crispin 58 Fun & Games 59 Grins & Giggles 60 CSA Application 61 Benefits 62 Fast Facts 3 Editor’s Message 6 Snowbird Alert 7 Snowbird Events 08 Bird Talk 10 President’s Message 11 Government Relations Report 12 Insurance by Ross Quigley 14 Canada Clubs 18 Opinion by Michael Coren 19 Legal by Wallace J. Weylie The Best Places to Travel in Autumn Gear up for autumn in these scenic fall destinations. by Rex Vogel Snoring and Sleep Apnea These sleep-disruptors can significantly affect your health. by Dr. Robert MacMillan RV Lifestyle Health CSANews | FALL 2018 | 5
Top 5 questions you should ask your doctor about prescribed medications When you are sitting in your doctor’s office, it can feel like your mind suddenly goes blank as soon as you are asked ‘do you have any questions’. Cut out this article and take it to your next appointment. 1. How and When Should I Use This Medication? Many medications are most effective when taken at certain times of the day and, in some cases, with or without food. Some medications require learning how to use a device (such as an inhaler, of which there are many types). 2. What Are the BestWays I CanManageMultipleMedications? If you have several medications, it is often good to ask whether they are best taken together or throughout the day. Some pharmacies can pack your pills into pouches, saving you time and confusion about which medications to take when. 3. IsThere a SimplerWay to Get MyMedicationDosing?When it comes tomultiple pills and inhalers, it is easy to get overwhelmed. Advances in treatment may have resulted in easier-to-use medications. Ask your doctor about the best strategy for you to use. 4. HowDo I KnowWhen I Should Stop TakingThisMedication? Some medications are prescribed for a short period based on a symptom that you are experiencing, while others are for longtermuse to help slow down or control disease progression. Check with your doctor before stopping a medication simply because you are feeling better. 5. What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose? It happens to everyone, but doubling a dose the next day can be dangerous for some medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist what you should do if you miss a dose of your medication, and request tips for making your daily routine less complex and easier to follow. Always confirm instructions before starting or changing a medication. Be sure to ask your doctor if there are options available that may work better, or which would help to cut down on the number of medications that you take. SnowbirdAlert www.newscanada.com Doctors warn that older Canadians need this health test Were you born between 1945 and 1975? If so, you might not know that you’re at an increased risk for certain illnesses, including hepatitis C. Recently, the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver recommended that Canadians be tested based on their age, not just on possible risk factors. According to the new guidelines on the management of chronic hepatitis C, those born between 1945 and 1975 should be tested for the virus, aligning with the recommendations established by the Canadian Liver Foundation. There is no warning for hepatitis C, because its symptoms often don’t appear until the liver is severely damaged. Undiagnosed and untreated chronic hepatitis C can lead to liver cancer and is the number-one reason for liver transplants in Canada. Many people who have this liver disease show no symptoms, and up to an estimated 70 per cent of people with chronic hepatitis C in Canada don’t even know that they have the infection. To find out your hepatitis risk, complete the Canadian Liver Foundation’s viral hepatitis questionnaire at liver.ca/hepatitisquestionnaire. HearingAwareness One in five Canadians experiences some level of hearing loss, with nearly half of these associated with age progression. The Canadian Hearing Society (CHS) says that age-related hearing decline is the third most-prevalent chronic condition in older adults and the most widespread disability. Moreover, with Canada’s aging population, it’s predicted that numbers are poised to climb dramatically. Although the disability is not a life-threatening condition, if left untreated, it can have serious side-effects that include depression, social isolation, cognitive decline and a greater risk of falling. Hearing specialists stress that hearing loss is progressive – meaning that it will get worse over time – hence early detection is important. Audiologists say that the sooner hearing impairment can be diagnosed, the better the outcome for the person with the loss. One of the biggest challenges about the condition is that it deteriorates slowly over time, meaning that people often don’t notice it until it becomes obvious. Some of the initial symptoms are sometimes overlooked or go unheeded. • Listening to television or radio at a loud volume. • Trouble understanding speech, particularly in a noisy environment. • The perception that others are mumbling. • Difficulty hearing people on the phone. • Often asking people to repeat themselves. • Ringing in the ears. At the first signs of hearing loss, people are urged to get a hearing assessment from a certified audiologist. While age-related hearing impairment is not curable, there is a range of modern treatments and devices that can improve both hearing and quality of life. 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 29 & 30, 2019 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Winter Texans’ Snowbird Extravaganza Pharr Events Center 3000 N Cage Blvd. Pharr, Texas Tuesday and Wednesday, February 5 & 6, 2019 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 12 & 13, 2019 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 18 Fantasy Springs Casino Resort 84245 Indio Springs Parkway WINTERHAVEN, CA Tuesday, February 19 Quechan Casino 525 Algodones Rd. IMMOKALEE, FL Friday, February 22 Immokalee Casino 506 South First St. PORT CHARLOTTE, FL Monday, February 25 Port Charlotte Cultural Center 2280 Aaron St. BRADENTON, FL Tuesday, February 26 Bradenton Area Convention Center 1 Haben Blvd. CLEARWATER, FL Wednesday, February 27 Capitol Theatre 405 Cleveland St. 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 CSANews | FALL 2018 | 7
BirdTalk Dear Bird Talk, We are considering purchasing a trailer from another couple in Alberta. The trailer remains year-round in a California RV park. Is there anything to be cautious or aware of with regard to insurance and registration of the unit? I will be going to California to view the unit in person before purchase. Bruce Andrusiak Edmonton, AB Editor: Here are a few things to consider: • Is there a lease and for how long on the lot? Can you be evicted? • If the land is owned, what are the restrictions? • Review the park’s financials, as there may be large assessments coming; can the park increase your fees? And when and how much? • Do the current owners have a proper RV registration? Where? • Are you agreeing to import the RV to the U.S., by mistake? • Review the park’s rules and regulations – some are tough and unfair. • Are any taxes or fees due to anyone? • In some cases, the park has the right of first refusal on sale. Do they? Finally, I would hire a U.S. lawyer to review everything. A local U.S. agent will be able to provide insurance. Thousands and thousands of snowbirds have done exactly what you are doing and, almost universally, they have been very happy with the results. It is a wonderful lifestyle and a great way to meet new friends. Dear Bird Talk, Can I do repairs to my own property in California (non-permit-required work)? Thanks. John Bastone Cobble Hill, BC Ed.: Yes, of course. I would be very cautious if it is a rental property, however, and would visit the county office for advice. Dear Bird Talk, If I flew back to Canada after three months in the U.S., then boarded a plane the following day to return for another two months, would I run into any problem with CBP? Helen Morgan Fort Macleod, AB Ed.: This is a great question and the answer is “No”, everything would be fine. You are normally allowed to come and go as you please. We actually have recommended this in the past to reduce your insurance costs. Three months plus two months can incur a substantially lower cost than five months. Also, many people have 40-, 60- or 90-day plans from work. If these have very good limits ($1 million plus) and good terms, you may not have to buy insurance at all. Dear Bird Talk, A question about line 1 in the form8840, what to enter as a snowbird going for 150 days? What type of U.S. visa (for example, F, J, M, etc.) and date you entered the United States… Mike Mares Ottawa, ON Ed.: As a snowbird, with no intention of working in the U.S., you enter on a “B2” Visa. This is normally done verbally as you pass through U.S. Customs and Immigration and allows you to stay for up to six months. Dear Bird Talk, A friend of mine just sent me an e-mail stating that U.S. border guards now have the authority to request your cellphone and its password. If you refuse, the border guards can confiscate the phone for up to five days. Is there any truth to this? Ian Walker Ottawa, ON Ed.: Yes! Actually, the border guards can do almost anything they like to protect the United States. There have been many “bans for life” issued recently, usually relating to marijuana issues, however. It is illegal to bring marijuana into the United States, period! I would, personally, not even own stock in a marijuana company as that could be considered aiding and abetting its use. Messy! We will have more on this in a later issue. Dear Bird Talk, I will be spending the winter in Arizona and would like to know if I need to provide the Lyme vaccine to my dog before crossing the U.S. border? He has all of his other vaccines (basic + rabies) already. Christine Choquette Waltham, QC Ed.: I love learning new things. I did not even know that there was a Lyme disease vaccine. I have crossed the border many times with our dog friends and never had this raised as a question by border agents. But do make sure that you have proper records from your local vet to present at the border for the other vaccines. Dear Bird Talk, As a snowbird, it seems that I am required to have two Amazon Prime accounts, one in each country. I cannot get through the Amazon maze to confirm this; can you with your resources obtain an answer? Jim Anderson Castleford, ON Ed.: Another surprise for me. Amazon has charged me twice – once in Canada ($89) and once in the U.S. (US$99). I did not even notice this and certainly did not approve it. We will do a little investigation and see if we can fix it, but I doubt that we will be successful. Dear Bird Talk, We have been members of CSANews for 20 years +; we enjoy reading and look forward to receiving it. I would like to add to your list of hikes [from CSANews 107, Fast Facts] the BRUCE TRAIL, which is made up of nine sections: Niagara, 8 | www.snowbirds.org
one can gift on an annual basis. The excess is subject to gift tax. However, my very sophisticated Canadian tax accountant states that a gift of any asset is considered to be a disposition for Canadian income tax purposes. (You can gift any asset to your spouse without incurring Canadian income tax.) A gift to your children or anyone else would crystalize any accrued capital gains and the tax rate is about 27%. If you gift U.S. real property, you would also incur U.S. gift tax on the value (not the gain). I believe that the rate is about 40%. There are ways to do it to reduce, and perhaps avoid, the U.S. tax – consult a U.S. accounting professional. A final note on our wills: Mr. Weylie has written an article addressing this and other issues later in the magazine. It is possible and sometimes advantageous to have several wills relating to specific items. I personally have three – one for normal stuff, one for properties and one for my collections. I recommend that you leave charities a specific amount of money – not a percentage or a residual amount. Leaving charities some of your stocks which have capital gains, rather than cash, can be very advantageous. In a perfect world, you will discuss your will and its contents with a U.S. tax lawyer and a U.S. accounting professional, as well as their Canadian counterparts. Do this now, during the planning stage, for best results. 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 Iroquois, Toronto, Caledon Hills, Dufferin Hi-Land, Blue Mountains, Beaver Valley, Sydenham and Peninsula, from Queenston, Ontario along the escarpment all the way to Tobermory, Ontario, a trail of more than 800 km. One can get more information from the BRUCE TRAIL CONSERVANCY at: 55 Head St., Unit 101, Dundas, ON L9H 3H8 Toll-free 1-800-665-4453 Tel: 905-529-6821 E-mail: info@brucetrail.org Website: www.brucetrail.org Bill and Lydia MacGregor Ontario Ed.: Sometimes a free ad makes sense. Dear Bird Talk, I’m interested in knowing the ins and outs (insurance, registration, etc.) of leaving a car in Florida year-round. This would eliminate the need for a 4,100-mile round trip each year. Two options – leave a car purchased in Canada or buy a car in Florida and leave it there. Patrick Woods Saint John, NB Ed.: The only real option is to just buy a car in the U.S. They are fairly inexpensive when compared to Canadian prices, too. If you purchase from a dealer, they will do all of the paperwork. I have imported cars in the past and it is time-consuming and a bit complicated, but it certainly can be done if you are truly in love with your current car. Dear Bird Talk, My wife and I own a mobile home in a resident-owned park in Florida. We own a share plus a home. It now looks as if our park is being sold to a private owner. Our park was a not-for-profit association. If the sale happens, we will be receiving money for our boughtout share. Do we need to report this capital gain to the IRS and, if so, does anybody know at what percentage the taxation rate will be? Perry Lalonde Ontario Ed.: Yes; Wallace Weylie, CSA’s legal advisor, says that any capital gain would have to be reported to the IRS. Probably, the gain could be divided by two, one half to each owner, and they would be able to take two exemptions, which this year was $4,050 each. The tax rate is 20% of the taxable gain. Dear Bird Talk, My wife and I own a home in Arizona and are thinking of transferring ownership to our son, who lives in Arizona. We bought the house in 2006. We live in Canada. Would we have any capital gain to report, as this is not a sale but a gift to our son? Then could he not assume the house for our original purchase price? Wes Berg Cochrane, AB Ed.: This is a little more complicated. Mr. Weylie states that your U.S. property can be passed on to your son without paying U.S. capital gains tax. However, the concern should be about gift tax. Unlike Canada, where one can gift unlimited amounts, the U.S. has limits on the amount which CSANews | FALL 2018 | 9
President’s Message Karen Huestis CSA President I hope that you are having a fun and relaxing summer with family and friends. It won’t be long now until we embark on our journeys to our winter homes. Please do not forget to purchase your travel medical insurance before you go. I know that many of our members have already made their purchase throughMedipac’s Early Bird program. In addition to the Early Bird discounts, Medipac offers both loyalty and claim-free discounts. NewMedipac clients may also be eligible for Medipac’s Claim-Free Advantage Discount so, if you have yet to purchase your insurance, please ensure that you’re covered before you go. On July 12, U.S. Senators Bill Nelson (D-FL) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the Canadian Snowbird Act in the United States Senate. This is companion legislation to Representative Elise Stefanik’s (R-NY) Canadian Snowbird Visa Act in the House of Representatives. If passed into law, these bills would allow Canadian citizens over the age of 50 who either own or rent a residence in the U.S. to remain in the country for up to eight months in a 12-month period. “It’s no secret that Canadians love to visit Florida in the winter,” Nelson said. “The millions of Canadian snowbirds who visit our state each year play an important role in our state’s tourism-driven economy. Allowing them to stay even longer is a win for them and for the local economies that they visit.” I met with Senator Nelson inMarch, at which time I asked him to consider sponsoring our proposal in the Senate. On behalf of the Canadian Snowbird Association, I would like to thank Senators Nelson and Rubio for bringing us one step closer to our objective. With recreational marijuana set to officially become legal in Canada on October 17, 2018, many Canadians have questions related to how this will impact their travel abroad, particularly to the United States. Despite the legalization of cannabis nationwide, cross-border rules will remain unchanged. This means that individuals will not be permitted to bring cannabis or cannabis products into Canada, even if they are returning home from a destination in which recreational marijuana has also been legalized. Similarly, although a growing number of U.S. states have legalized marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes, the sale, possession, production and distribution of marijuana all remain illegal under U.S. federal law. Travelling across the border into the United States withmarijuana in any form – even if carrying a medical prescription – can result in legal prosecution and fines, and possibly jail time. Since marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer processing your admission to the United States at a port of entry may question you about your personal marijuana use. Travellers should be mindful that disclosing to a U.S. CBP officer that you have previously used or currently use marijuana could result in a traveller being banned from entering the United States. In these cases, travellers are required to apply for an advanced entry waiver in order to be admitted into the country in the future, but there is no guarantee that an application for such a waiver will be approved. It should also be noted that travellers who lie or misrepresent themselves to a U.S. CBP officer, when questioned at a port of entry, risk being banned from entering the United States. Alternatively, travellers may refuse to answer the question. While there is no legal requirement for travellers to provide an answer, a traveller refusing to answer will likely be denied entry into the United States and face further scrutiny when they attempt to re-enter at a later date. Questions related to involvement in the cannabis industry in Canada are treated in a similar manner and admitting to such involvement may result in a traveller being denied entry or banned from entering the United States. As we always emphasize, entry is allowed or denied at the sole discretion of the admitting U.S. CBP officer. While Public SafetyMinister Ralph Goodale has raised this issue with his U.S. counterparts in bilateral discussions, to date there has been no change to U.S. policy. The CSA is monitoring this matter closely and will provide updates to members as they become available. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and Bill and I wish you safe travels to your winter homes. 10 | www.snowbirds.org
Government Relations Report Ron Steeves First Vice-President This fall, voters in Quebec and New Brunswick will go to the polls. The New Brunswick provincial election will be held on September 24th, while voters in Quebec will go to the polls on October 1st. In order to ensure that political issues of importance to our members remain part of the conversation, CSA staff is preparing provincial election handbooks for both provinces. These handbooks will outline the limitations of the respective province’s reimbursement rates for out-of-province medical care, as well as the differing policies on preservation of health coverage for frequent travellers, prescription drug allowances and many other issues of importance to Canadian travellers. Under the portability section of the Canada Health Act, insured Canadian residents – when temporarily absent from their home province and when outside of Canada –must continue to be covered for insured health services during their absence. When the insured services are provided outside of Canada, payment is supposed to be made on the basis of the amount that would have been paid by the province for similar services rendered in the province. This allows individuals to travel or be absent from their home province or territory, within a prescribed duration, while retaining their provincial health insurance coverage. As our election handbooks highlight, New Brunswick and Quebec are paying significantly lower than home-province rates for emergency hospital services received outside of Canada and are, thus, not meeting their obligations under the portability section of the Canada Health Act. These handbooks will be sent to the political parties in both provinces prior to the elections and will ask the leaders to clarify their positions on these important issues.They will also be mailed to our members in both provinces so that local residents can raise these issues with the candidates when they knock on the door and at local forums in the community. They are also a great resource that contains handy and important information regarding election times, dates, required identification and polling information. This fall, British Columbia is having a referendumon what voting systemwill be used for future provincial elections. The referendum will be held by mail and the voting period will extend from October 22, 2018 to November 30, 2018. Detailed information about the different voting systems will be available on the Elections BC website, elections.bc.ca. We have received confirmation fromElections BC that electors who are temporarily absent from the province during the voting period will be able to request a voting package while abroad. It is recommended that absent electors request their voting packages as soon as possible. Residents of British Columbia can ensure that their voter information is up to date by contacting Elections BC directly at 1-800661-8683, or by visiting elections.bc.ca/ovr. In response to the recent tariffs imposed by the U.S. Government on Canadian steel and aluminum, the Government of Canada has retaliated with a series of tariffs which includes a 10% surtax on more than 120 consumer goods originating from the United States.The 10% surtax came into effect on July 1, 2018 and is applicable on a wide range of goods such as washing machines, motorboats, ketchup and whiskey. The surtax applies to commercial shipments, as well as goods being imported by travellers above their personal exemptions. As a reminder, personal exemptions do not apply to same-day, cross-border shoppers. Canadian residents returning to Canada after an absence of seven days or longer can claim goods worth up to CAN$800 without paying any duty or taxes. A complete list of consumer goods subject to the 10% surtax can be accessed here, www.fin. gc.ca/access/tt-it/cacsap-cmpcaa-1-eng.asp. On July 26, U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL) and TomRice (R-SC) reintroduced the Jobs Originating through Launching Travel Act or, as you may recall, the JOLT Act. This was the name of the legislation that contained our proposal for the creation of a Canadian Snowbird Visa in the last session of Congress. This version of the bill again includes language that would extend the stay of Canadian citizens over the age of 50 – who either own or rent property in the United States – from six to eight months in a 12-month period. A companion bill in the Senate is expected shortly. This means that we now have two significant bills in the U.S. House of Representatives and one in the Senate that potentially accomplish our goal. In no way does this conflict with existing house bill H.R. 3513, the Canadian Snowbird Visa Act that we have talked so much about during the last year. It is simply another card in the deck; if either of those bills was to pass in the House, then our visa passes in the House. It is essentially the same situation in the Senate. The bottom line is that our inclusion in the JOLT Act increases our odds of eventual passage. We will keep you apprised of our progress. CSANews | FALL 2018 | 11
J. Ross Quigley CEO Medipac International Inc. Insurance “PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONmeans a medical condition that existed before your effective date whether or not diagnosed by a physician, and/or whether or not you required or received treatment.” A harmless little clause in a flashy old insurance product, recently revised. Needless to say, this is not a Medipac policy clause. My father, age 89, woke up with heavy chest pain one morning and needed an emergency bypass. He had no idea that he had any problems. NOT COVERED. You wake up in Arizona one morning and find it difficult to breathe. It turns out to be lung cancer. NOT COVERED. I went to one of the medical testing buses in Tampa a few years back and they found a large aneurysm in my descending aorta. If that had burst, I may have been dead. Dead in more ways than one. NOT COVERED. These are all things which you did not know you had until it was almost too late. If you buy this policy, it will be too late. I decided to go online and buy a few policies today. Two of the largest travel insurance providers did not have a full policy online. I wonder why? You should wonder why, too. In both cases, it was a long tedious process designed to milk me of all the information they could and then, they would not even showme their policy. They just wanted my money! And then there are the policies that will not cover ANY pre-existing conditions. And how about the policies that will only cover a pre-existing condition if it is listed on the policy itself? So tell me – how does that work? If I have atrial fibrillation and it is listed on the policy as covered, am I covered for a heart attack or stroke, or even a mini-stroke? The same question would apply to high blood pressure. Am I covered?? Such uncertainty; and I suspect that they do this to avoid paying some claims, especially the big ones. This has been a very disruptive year in the travel medical insurance marketplace. Several companies dramatically increased their rates due to huge losses; there are whispers of losses in excess of $10 million at one company. You would think that they would learn. Two very large companies got out of the business altogether; they finally figured it out. You can’t take Medipac’s rates and add on huge commissions and marketing fees and expect to make money. Some of the very best life insurance agents refer their clients to us and get no commission. Why? Because they know how to read a policy and they know that Medipac’s policy and service are excellent. My last thought involves discounts. WithMedipac, you primarily earn your discounts through Loyalty Credits and Claims-Free discounts. Even if you have a claim, if you have MedipacPLUS, your first claim does not count against you. These two discounts can add up to 18% off the “book” premium. Then you can deduct the Early Bird Discount of 5% by purchasing early and that adds up to 23% off. It only makes sense to purchase Medipac early on in your snowbird life to maximize your discounts. And don’t be mesmerized by a one-year rate wonder from another company…it won’t last and you may lose your discounts. Being fair, we will not penalize you if you are unable to travel due to illness in a particular year. Many companies will not continue to give you a policy if you are over a certain age. I don’t think that you want to wake up when you are 70 or 75 or 80 and start to pay real prices for insurance at those ages with a different insurer. It’s expensive! A substantial discount will help a lot and you can earn that with Medipac. This year, we have five snowbirds who will turn 100 years old while they are away. Thank you Medipac – COVERED! 12 | www.snowbirds.org
Snowbirds have unique needs that we understand. Protect your home and auto with an insurance plan designed for your lifestyle. We’ll be with you all year long. Call us for a quote today 1-800-267-8000 Heading South this Winter? Endorsedby theCanadianSnowbirdAssociation. UnderwrittenbyRoyal&SunAlliance InsuranceCo. RSA isa registered tradenameofRoyal&SunAlliance InsuranceCompanyofCanada. “RSA”and theRSA logoare trademarksusedunder licence fromRSA InsuranceGroupplc
CanadaClubs University of Guelph Florida Alumni - 2019 Events February 6, 2019 - Babcock Ranch Eco Tour, Punta Gorda, Florida. Mid-morning 2-hour bus tour of the ranch narrated by a ranch agricultural specialist. We will visit the cattle, horse, timber, and solar operations. Group buffet lunch on site. Cost is $25.00 plus lunch charge. Reserve with Larry Thompson by January 17, 2019. March 6, 2019 - Annual Picnic at Maple Leaf Estates, Port Charlotte, Florida. 10:30 registration. There will be time to socialize, followed by lunch and a Special Guest Speaker from the University of Guelph leadership team. Registration will be with the University of Guelph Alumni office. Info: Larry Thompson, ON (613) 402-4411, larry_t@bell.net Clearwater/St. Petersburg OPP Veterans’ Association – Suncoast Annual Luncheon Wednesday, March 6; 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 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Banquet Masters, 13355 49th Street North. This is the 27th year for this event. Cost is $20.00 per person. This is a prepaid event. Send cheque or money order in US funds to either one of the following committee members: William Fordham, Unit 516, 7701 Starkey Road, Seminole, Florida, 33777, (727) 398-1967, william_fordham@yahoo.com or Muriel Hooper, 2035 Shady Cove Dr., Holiday, Florida, 34691, (727) 943-2512, muriel853@yahoo.com Canadian Club Canadien 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 18/19 is Wednesday, 28 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, info@ccgcfl.org RCMP Annual Picnic Thursday, March 7, 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 18/19 schedule begins with four (4) events in November; 10th (Gulfport parade), 11th (at MacDill AFB), 19th (Meeting), and 24th (Taylor Park Picnic). We meet monthly 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 12 Oct ‘18 for security vetting. Then we are into our ongoing meetings, dance (w/Santa), levee, invasion, Elvis, 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, rcl@galt.biz CANADIAN CALENDAR 2018-2019 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 26. 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 1. 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 Surprise Annual Canadian Dinner & Dance Party at the Arizona Traditions Ballroom Wednesday, February 27. Doors open 5:00 pm, Dinner at 6:00 and dancing at 7:00 to the sounds of Boomerang &The Sunsations. Open to all Canadian residents of Arizona Traditions and their Canadian guests. Info: Fred and Sharon Brade, (403) 952-5115, sbrade@shaw.ca 14 | www.snowbirds.org
CanadaClubs 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 inallofus 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 RPFundingCenter Lakeland Florida PharrEventsCenter Pharr 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 CurrencyExchangeProgram 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 first and third 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 22, 12:00 p.m. at Harpoon Harry’s in Panama City Beach. You can pick up tickets at Harpoon Harry’s. Info: Carl Simpson, 705 268 0457 or (705) 221-1051 (cell), carlsimpson@eastlink.ca Port Charlotte Canadian Club of Port Charlotte Third Thursday in November, then the second Thursday of each month from December through March; all at 11:30 a.m. 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. Our 18/19 season meetings are on Thursdays, starting 15 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 Snowbird Extravaganza in Lakeland. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, rcl@galt.biz HAWAII Kailua, Kona Annual Canadian Potluck Thursday, January 31 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: Brenda Pries, 306-621-7927, bpries1@gmail.com TEXAS Mercedes Llano Grande Lake Resort Picnic Dinner/dance Monday, February 4. Picnic Tuesday, March 12. Cost of tickets includes food and beverages. Open to all Canadians living in Llano Grande Lake Resort. Info: Jayne Wilson, (956) 825-7011 (yearround), jaynewilson33@yahoo.ca Zephyrhills, FL Royal Canadian Legion, Eastern Zone USA An amazing group is recruiting Royal Canadian Legion members in Zephyrhills, FL. Our 18/19 season Meetings will be Tuesdays, starting 20 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 Snowbird Extravaganza in Lakeland. Info: Dann Oliver, ON (705) 242-9606, FL (727) 343-3843 after 26 Oct, rcl@galt.biz Please allow a minimum of 2 weeks for delivery. CSANews | FALL 2018 | 15
Roaming refers to the ability to use your mobile device outside of your cell phone provider’s network. For example, when travelling to the U.S., your Canadian cell phone will still be able to receive and dial voice calls, send and receive messages and access data through “roaming”. Roaming Charges Roaming involves fees that are usually called “roaming charges”. If your wireless plan only includes usage in Canada, these roaming charges apply every time you use your cell phone when travelling outside of the country. For example, you will be subject to “roaming charges” when you answer a call from Canada or send emails, browse the internet or use apps while in the U.S. Each cell phone provider has di erent rates for pay per use roaming fees for voice, text and data. You can check with your own provider about your detailed pay per use roaming rates. Avoid High Roaming Charges It’s important to know that roaming charges can easily add up if you’re not careful in monitoring your usage when travelling. Here are 4 di erent ways to avoid high roaming charges: 1. Turn o data roaming Turning o data roaming on your device prevents it from accessing data through other networks when travelling. While data roaming is o , functions like the use of apps that require a data connection, sending picture messages and receiving emails will not work. However, you will still be able to make calls, send and receive text messages while data roaming is turned o . It is important to note with the use of voice calling or texting, roaming charges can still be incurred. Keep in mind that once you turn your data roaming o , there could be a backlog of emails and other app updates. If you decide to turn data roaming back on while still travelling, your phone will load the backlog that was waiting to be delivered since you turned data roaming o . This can result in unexpected roaming charges. Tip: If you want to access the internet while travelling, and not get charged for any data roaming fees, you can connect your phone to Wi-Fi networks. Most hotels, restaurants and shopping malls o er a Wi-Fi connection. When your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, you will have access to your email, the internet as well as use di erent apps with no additional roaming charges. 2. Get a SIM card from the country you’re visiting When you have arrived at your destination it is possible to purchase a SIM card from the local cell phone provider. To change SIM cards, you must remove your existing SIM and keep it somewhere safe until you return. You will need an unlocked device and a SIM card that ts your cell phone. Changing SIM cards means that you will use a local number from your destination. It’s important to know that your Canadian cell phone number will not work while your Canadian SIM is removed and you will need to make sure to let your family and friends know your new number attached to the SIM you just purchased. When you switch SIM cards, you will get charged the speci c cell phone plan rates of the country you’re visiting instead of the usual roaming charges. Don’t forget to put your Canadian SIM card back when you return from your trip! 3. Get a travel add-on Cell phone providers o er add-ons to your wireless plan that are usually called “travel packs”. These travel packs include a limited number of minutes, text messages and data usage allowance, which you can use during your trip. Rather than being charged for roaming every time you use your phone, you will just use the features included in the travel pack you purchased. SimplyConnect o ers a $40 U.S. Travel Pack that includes 50 minutes of calls, unlimited text messagesand200 MB of data allowance that you can use while travelling. Travel packs are typically applicable for 1 month from the date of purchase or until the features of the travel packs are used up. 4. Get a plan with roaming usage Some Canadian providers have options for plans that include U.S. roaming usage. This type of plan usually includes minutes, texts and data that can be used either in Canada or in the U.S. For example, SimplyConnect’s Canada/U.S. plans include cell phone usage for bothCanadaand theU.S. SimplyConnect’s Canada/U.S. plans prevent unexpected and expensive roaming charges while travelling in Canada and the U.S. These plans are perfect for Canadian Snowbirds who travel back and forth to both countries - one plan, one phone number andone SIM card for both your Canadian and U.S. wireless needs. O to the U.S. for a month? For 3 months? You will never have to worry about cross-border calling costs, switching plans, temporary numbers or changing SIM cards ever again. Travel Seamlessly Choose from our Individual Canada/U.S. planspacked with the right features to keep you connected while away or choose from our Couples Canada/U.S. plans that you can share when travelling with a loved one. Have a seamless travel experience with Canada/U.S. plans! Call 1-888-281-2105or visit simplyconnect.ca/canada-us-plans. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MOBILE ROAMING UNDERSTANDING ROAMING
Use your phone seamlessly inCanadaor theU.S. *Offers shown are available until October 31, 2018 or while quantities last and are subject to change without notice. 10% off applies to the Talk & Text Canada/U.S. monthly plan fees, and 15% off applies to the Smartphone Canada/U.S. monthly plan fees. Discount applies with a 2-year service agreement and cannot be combined with Bring Your Own Phone Discount. Early cancellation fees apply. Some conditions apply, call 1-888-281-2105 or visit simplyconnect.ca/canada-us-plans for details. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. • Wireless plans to suit your needs • Great phones includingbasic and smartphones starting at $0 • Friendly &dedicatedCanadian customer service • 30-day money-backguarantee Why SimplyConnect? Holidays 2018 Samsung Galaxy J3 Prime $ 0 2-year term $250 no term Call 1 888 281 2105 andquote promo code “CSA0918“ to get this o er or visit simplyconnect.ca/canada-us-plans for more details Canada/U.S. Talk & Text 150minutes and unlimited text messages inCanada/U.S. $36 /month * $40 15% OFF Canada/U.S. Smartphone plan* 10% OFF Canada/U.S. Talk & Text plan* CSA MEMBERS SAVE MORE! OR Save 10% Huawei P20 lite $ 0 2-year term $500 no term Canada/U.S. Couples Data Share Plan $100 Save 15% $85/month for 2 lines * Unlimited calling and texting between both users, share 1 GBof data and 400minutes inCanada/U.S. INDIVIDUAL PLAN SHARED PLAN Other plansandphonesavailable
Opinion with Michael Coren In April, a terrible, tragic massacre occurred in Toronto when a van was driven through crowded sidewalks, killing 10 people and injuring a further 16. What can be said about such a grotesque, pointless crime; what words can possibly communicate the way we feel? That our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, that we are in shock or tears, that we should all hug one another? Much of that might be true, but I’m not sure what is achieved by making our feelings so public. It’s easy to play the cynic in all of this, but the one absolute is that when such tragedies occur – and, alas, they frequently do, and will continue to do so – it is the dead, the wounded and their loved ones who matter. The rest of us are simply not the story. Sometimes, that doesn’t appear to be the case. More than 30 years ago, I reported from the bloody and violent conflict in Northern Ireland and saw terrible violence and suffering first-hand. On one occasion, someone was shot dead just a few steps away from me. It took almost 48 hours for me to react and, when I did, I sat in my hotel room and shook and sobbed. As awful as all of this is, however, life does reset astoundingly quickly. That, whether we like it or not, is the reality of howwe work and function as people. So when reporters constantly ask people with no direct involvement in a tragedy how they feel, and demand to know what the event and the trauma means to them, we must ask whether this is easing the situation, aiding the victims, or merely magnifying public emotion for its own sake. Of course I care, of course I feel, but I’mnot sure if genuine compassion and meaningful empathy are helped or hindered by this culture of public grieving. Wounds never heal if we constantly scratch away at them, especially when there is absolutely no point in doing so. When Princess Diana died in 1997, for example, Britain sank into paroxysms of sorrow. It was indeed genuinely terrible that a young woman, a mother of small children, should die like that. But this mass reaction was for someone whommost people had never met and knew only through media or fantasy. I hosted a radio show at the time and, while expressing sympathy for Diana and her family, mentioned a story from London in which a person had died, and none of the neighbours even knew or noticed for almost a month! Real community and genuine fraternity, I suggested, are about caring for all and not concentrating love on one lionized figure. Sorrow for the glamorous and the famous might not be real sorrow at all. The general reaction to what I said was extraordinary. I was criticized for being uncaring and hard, when in fact all I was doing was asking for a reasonable, balanced response to the trauma and pain of loss. Do we grieve because we care about others, or because we care about ourselves? That might be a politically incorrect question, but it needs to be asked. Self-analysis may be painful, but that doesn’t make it wrong. The Toronto horror and the terrorist attacks and U.S. shootings are different from the death of Princess Diana, of course, but our reaction to them still provokes some fundamental questions: do we react the same way when countless innocent people are murdered in the Middle East, and do we show such emotion when yet another homeless person dies on the street? I think that we know the answer. Part of the problem is that we’ve often forgotten how to grieve. The decline of organized religion has removed much of that collective solidarity, whether it’s the Roman Catholic wake, the Jewish sitting shiva, or any other ordered process of trying to deal with passing. Politicians mouthing words about thoughts and prayers, or television cameras thrusting into crowds of onlookers just isn’t the same. Emotion is a good thing, but emotionalism is not; and false tears for the sake of appearance are positively awful. Please grieve, please feel, and please share in the pain of others. But do so for all people and in appropriate and suitable proportion. And never forget that it’s never about us, it’s always about them, no matter what the culture and the media might expect. They are the ones who matter. 18 | www.snowbirds.org
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