february 24, 2015

LIVING60PLUS

60plus!plus!LivingLiving

LILILILILILILILILILLLLILILILILIILILILILILILIIILLIILILLILIIILILIIIIILLLLL VIVVVVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIVIIVIVVIVIVIIIVIVVIIIVIVIVIVIIVIVIVIVIIIVIIVIVIVIVVIIIIIVIVVVIIVIIIVIVIVIVVVVVVIVIVIVVVIVIVVVVVIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVIVVVVVVIIVVVVVVVIVVVVVVVIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV NNGNGNGNGNGNGNNGNGNGNGNGNGNGGGNGNGNNNGNNGNNGGNGNGNGNGGNGNGNGNNNGNNGNG60606060606060606060606060606060606600606060606060606660600PLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPLPPPLPPPPLPPPLPPPLP UUSUUUUSUSUSUSUSUSUSSSUSUSSSSUSUUUSUSSUUUUUUUSUUSUS

ON THE ROAD FOR AON THE ROAD FOR ACURE FOR CANCERCURE FOR CANCER

in in Dorothy’s Dorothy’s MemoryMemory

Bringing History to LifeWarrenWarrenSommerSommer

Dorscie Patterson 102 years old and going strong

JIMMCGREGOR

SAYS

CCCCCthe BEST of

a Langley Times Publicationaa LLaanngglleeyy TTiimmeess PPuubblliiccaattiioonn

L A N G L E Y T I M E S ’ S E N I O R L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 5

■ 2 Published by THE LANGLEY TIMES ■ FEBRUARY 2015 ■LIVING60PLUS

Limited Space Still Available!Book a personal tour and stay for lunch on us 604.530.1101

A better way of life...

20899 Douglas Crescent 604.530.7075www.harrisonlanding.ca

21616 - 52 Ave, Langley604.530.1101www.harrisonpointe.ca

Retirement Living in Langley at its Best!INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING

Complete Condo Style Suites •Mountain Views •Full Kitchen •Fireplace •BalconyActive Lifestyle •Outings •Parties •Fitness Programs •Entertainment •ShoppingExtensive Common Areas•Theatre •Billiards Room •Bar Lounge •Library •Garden Patios •General Store •Guest Suite •Hair Salon •Private Dining Room Outstanding Essentials •Chef Prepared Meals •Care Aides 24/7 •Secure Building •Light Housekeeping •Underground Parking

■ FEBRUARY 2015 ■ Published by THE LANGLEY TIMES 3 ■LIVING60PLUS

Langley Living 60 Plus is published by the Langley Times, February, 2015. Publisher: Dwayne WeidendorfProject Coordinator: Sherri MartinEditor: Jim McGregorCreative Director: Millie McKinnon

www.langleytimes.com

20258 Fraser Hwy., Langley, BC V3A 4E6604-533-4157

F E A T U R E A R T I C L E S :

6060plus!plus!LivingLiving

bringinghistoryto LIFE 5

On the Road for a Cure for Cancer – in Dorothy’s Memory Don McIntyre’s amazing drive to Tuktoyaktuk to honor his late wife Dorothy’s memory.

OOOininiiiDDDDDhhhhh55

Langley’s Heritage 13

Our Community Halls 20

McGregor Says 23ALSO INSIDE:

99DorscieDorsciePattersonPattersoncelebrates 102 yearscelebrates 102 years

A CWB Group Company

Rates subject to change without notice and available only in-branch. *WestEarner® TFSA Account only. Interest calculated daily and paid monthly. ** Interest compounded annually, paid at maturity.

Langley Branch19915 - 64 AvenueP: 604.539.5088cwbank.com/retirement

Great rates. Great people.

TAX-FREE SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

2.00%*

Talk to an account manager about your retirement plans today.

Rate Specials**

18 Months 1.50%

30 Months 1.65%

54 Months 1.95%

RRSP/RRIF/TFSA GIC


Th ank you for picking up our magazine. In this issue we celebrate our

community heritage. February 16 – 22 is designated as Heritage Week in our Province and this year’s theme is “Main Street: At the Heart of the Community.”With that in mind, we have included articles on the rich, historical past of our community. Fort Langley was the fi rst Capital of our province and the main street of our community started there.I had the pleasure of sitt ing down with Warren Sommer, a well-respected author and historian who takes history from the generals and politicians and teaches us about the real people who made a diff erence, the builders and the teachers who carved out our villages and cities.Contributor Mel Kositsky provides us some valuable insight into how we preserve our heritage buildings and land. Mel talks to some of the dedicated people who are concerned with the preservation of Langley’s built and natural heritage. We answer the questions, how does a piece of property gain heritage status, who is responsible for rebuilding, how does the community recognize our heritage?Continuing with our aspiration to inspire our readers, what could be more inspirational than 82-year-old Don McIntyre’s solo journey to Canada’s far north? Brenda Anderson takes us on the road with a touching story as Don heads out on a tribute his late wife on a fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society. Don’s journey was also his personal reminder that he still has plenty of life to live.A must read article is the interview with Dorscie Patt erson who has just celebrated her 102nd birthday. Her joy for life and community will get you up out your chair for sure.We hope you enjoy this edition of Living 60+.~ Jim McGregor, Editoremail: [email protected]

notes

Jim McGregor is a lifelong resident of Langley and former Fire Chief for Langley City. Jim is a published poet and author and a regular contributor to the Langley Times.

EDITOR’S

We are Proud To Announce Free Home

Grocery Delivery(Some Restrictions May Apply*)

Call 604-882-2520 to order today

Fresh Assortment Fresh Assortment & Quality Service& Quality Service

Fresh SeafoodDiscover our great full-service selection of fresh fi sh and seafood from sustainable sources.

Fresh ProduceDiscover our produce department with a large variety of delicious fresh fruits and vegetables.

BakeryDiscover our bakery department with a wide assortment of artisan breads and custom cakes made to order for any celebration.

DeliWe’re proud to bring you a wide variety of top quality delicatessen meats, sliced to your specifi ca-tions. Explore a variety of cheeses from around the world.

20678 Willoughby Town Centre Drive604-882-2520

Monday-Sunday 8am-10pm

*/TM the trademarks and logos displayed are trademarks of Loblaws Inc. All rights reserved. ©2012 Loblaws Inc.

Meals to Go: Exquisite dishes, lovingly created by our own executive chefs. Wholesome, convenient and delicious.Find it with our fresh-prepared meals!

Combos:Entrée Plus 1 Side $700

Entrée Plus 2 Sides $800

Thousands of points in-store for free groceries.


Warren Sommer has chosen history as his passion for

the opportunity to “Tell the stories that need to be told, to set the record straight, and to dispel the misinformation that exists.”Warren is the author of six books including, From Prairie to City: A History of the City of Langley, Frail Memorials: Th e Cemeteries of Langley, Th e Ambitious City: A History of the City of North Vancouver, and Nothing Without Eff ort: A History of Langley.When asked if he considers himself a Historian he replies, “Yes, but I discourage the term ‘local historian.’ Th at is the same as referring to ‘local artists’ or ‘local writers’ it implies that they only have local knowledge or experience.”

Warren was born in Vancouver and graduated from Kitsilano Secondary and went on to study at UBC for the next eight years, graduating with an M.A. in historical geography. He pursued his interest working for Parks Canada preparing an inventory of historic buildings in the lower mainland and then became the assistant curator for Heritage Village in Burnaby.In 1979 he came to Langley as Curator/Director of the Langley Centennial Museum in Fort Langley and also held numerous positions over 17 years with Township of Langley including Deputy Director of the Parks Recreation division until 1991. During that time he also taught for three years at Simon Fraser University in their Public History program, specifi cally a museums course, teaching that history is not just an academic subject, showing how museums work

Bringing Bringing HISTORY HISTORY to LIFEto LIFE

J I M M CG R E G O R

“Th ere are a lot of stories here in Langley that go far beyond the fur trade and the Hudson’s Bay Company” ~ Warren Sommer Jim McGregor photo

… C O N T I N U E D

YOUR OSTOMY SUPPLY CARE SPECIALISTS

Valley Evergreen Pharmacy • 604-534-1332 • 20577 Douglas Crescent

• Large in stock ostomy supply selection• Carry all major brands• Skin care products• Free Delivery

Full Service Pharmacy! Family owned & operated for 45 years!

Our pharmacy is your one-stop-shop for all of your prescription needs. Talk to our pleasant and knowledgeable staff about any questions you may have about what your doctor has prescribed, or with any other products we stock.

Fu

SeniorsSaturday

15%15% Off OffLast Sat. every montht

Post-Mastectomy products,

& certifi ed fi tters on staff.


From the meticulously maintained grounds to the friendly, professional staff, From the meticulously maintained grounds to the friendly, professional staff, Avalon Gardens provides you with the fi nest supportive living, where Avalon Gardens provides you with the fi nest supportive living, where

you're free to enjoy the lifestyle you're looking for!you're free to enjoy the lifestyle you're looking for!

22323 - 48th Avenue, Langley, BC V3A 0C1 604.546.3130 www.avalon-gardens.com

Independent Lifestyle • Rent or Purchase • Choice of Meal Packages • Small Pets Welcome

Come and see how good life can be! Open for Tea & Tours Every Day 11-5

We Love Spoiling YouWe Love Spoiling YouAt Avalon Gardens, residents can take advantage of our

billiards room, library, crafts and exercise facilities, enjoy our theatre room or have the family over for dinner in our private dining room.

There's so many choices in fl oorplans and services that you can create a lifestyle that really works for you!


and the value of museums and archives to the community. “Many people have lived in our community for years and don’t know we have a museum,” Warren points out. Most of us, when we saw history was the next class on our high school timetable, we sighed and trudged off to class. So how does someone develop an interest and passion for the subject?“You have to fi nd a spark for your interest,” Warren explains. “For me it was my grade fi ve and six social studies teacher. I was looking at areas of history back then that included Mediterranean history, medieval England, ancient Egypt. When I got to UBC, like many other fi rst year students, I wasn’t sure of my focus and then I encountered a very inspirational professor in the geography department, teaching a strange hybrid of history and geography. He took us beyond the political history of names and dates showing us how history actually unfolded on the landscape.”“Some of the challenges for students is that our courses focus too much on dates, places and historical leaders and they don’t learn the human stories which can be very interesting. Seeing history through the eyes of the common man rather than the generals or politicians. We are so overwhelmed by American accounts of history. We have to fi nd out who we are and what our values are as a country.”Warren’s current project is doing just that. “I am currently transcribing the diary of a young Langley man. He was conscripted during the Great War and his diary starts in Vancouver and takes him across Canada by train. Th ere is a great sense of adventure and discovery with detailed descriptions of type of barns, breeds of catt le. Th en it changes dramatically as he gets on the boat, is tossed across the Atlantic and then military discipline kicks in.“Gett ing that perspective from someone we all could have known as opposed to the memoirs of a general writing while sitt ing in a chateau while drinking champagne.”

Warren is the current Chair of the Fort Langley Remembrance Day committ ee and has been researching for another book on Langley and the First World War. “I hope to record the experiences of Langley soldiers and how the war aff ected our community both here and overseas. When we consider that over half the adult male population of Langley went off to serve King and Country and many of those that returned died prematurely in the 1920’s of war related injuries. Try to imagine that today. Would that many of our young people be motivated to take up arms and leave for a foreign country?“Th ere are a lot of stories here in Langley that go far beyond the fur trade and the Hudson’s Bay Company. Th ere is a lot of mythology around the fur trade and it really never was a profi table venture. Th ere are so many changes in the Langley community that have had greater impacts on our development. Maybe somewhere down the line someone will write the story of the demise of local agriculture and what has happened to our green space. Th e rate of change we are dealing with now is phenomenal.”Th e topics for Warren’s books vary from historical studies of the community to stories and catalogues of Langley’s cemeteries.“How I choose my projects is complicated,” smiles Warren. “As a child, I was terrifi ed of graveyards and even though I wasn’t Roman Catholic, I used to cross myself when I passed one just to be safe. But I became interested in historic church architecture in British Columbia and discovered that many older churches had small cemeteries in their churchyards. Th ey were an extension of the church, the congregation was still there.“Aft er a trip to Europe where everything

there is built of brick and stone, I came back to the despair of everything here being built of wood and oft en poorly maintained to sit and ruin. However churches and institutional buildings are bett er cared for and remain standing as part of the landscape. Outside the churches are the gravestones, each one telling a story. We see the evidence of high infant mortality. We see

life expectancy being much lower than by today’s standards. We can walk through a churchyard cemetery and see the makeup of the community and how it has changed over time.“While working on another project for the HBC cemetery, I have uncovered that there were more than one grave site and that far many more people died during that time than originally thought. My research has many interesting new facts that are coming to light and so this book may be on the HBC gravesites, plural.”Researching history is an art in itself, many times having to rely on faded newspaper stories or microfi lm. “I start by tracking down people, family members that can provide clues or start me in a direction. I check museum archives, microfi lm and 19th century newspapers such as the British Columbian published out of New Westminster. Government records are available if you know what you are looking for. Th e best sources are old lett ers or diaries that were kept and handed down through generations.”“Th is will be a big issue for future generations as no one writes lett ers any longer and e-mails and photos are disposable and deleted. Kids no longer write or read long hand, mostly e-mails or texting now. We are losing our enduring historical records.”In addition to his writing, Warren has also

bringing history to bringing history to LIFELIFE

“Kids no longer write or read long hand, mostly e-mails or

texting now. We are losing our enduring historical records.

“



been conducting and taping oral interviews to compile an oral history for the Langley Centennial Museum. “One of my constant regrets is not interviewing people then fi nding out it is too late, they’re gone. Perhaps they were a branch of a Langley family that sett led here and never got a chance to share their story. Th ere are also many stories waiting to be told by people who have been here shorter periods of time that also have contributed and they have a story.”Currently Warren and Bev, his wife of 33 years, reside in Fort Langley with their dog Tucker. Th ey are the principals of their fi rm, Langley Heritage Consultants specializing in heritage studies and providing such services as interpretive signage for Surrey and Langley and preparing small exhibitions for the Surrey Museum. In addition to his other projects, Warren is the President of Langley Heritage Trust and a Trustee, Langley Builders and Developers Cultural Facilities Trust.Nothing Without Eff ort: A History of Langley and Frail Memorials: Th e Cemeteries of Langley are both available for purchase at the Langley Centennial Museum and the Langley Civic Facility. His books are also available at some local libraries.I’m prett y sure I would have looked forward to att ending Mr. Sommer’s history class.

bringing history to bringing history to LIFELIFE

#100-20265 54A AvenueLangley, BC V3A 3W6

(604) [email protected]

A Home in the Heart of Langley CityConsisting of 14 Residential Care Beds & 22 Independent Living Suites,

this facility maintains a Reformed Christian atmosphere and the Ethnic Dutch Culture.

Applications for Care or Independent Living are to be sent to the Administrator:

3650 248TH STREET, ALDERGROVE 604.607.6934 MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-7PM | SATURDAY 9AM-5PM | SUNDAY 11AM-5PM

OTTER CO-OP PHARMACYOTTER CO-OP PHARMACY

ottercoop.com

• Full Prescription Service • Free Delivery • Full line of vitamin

supplements • Vaccinations

• Ostomy Supplies • Home Health Care• Free blood pressure

testing • Free blister packing

Hisham Metwally, Aldergrove Pharmacy Manager

flushotsAVAILABLE

Check out our great selection of PediFix products in our Healthcare section

TRUE REWARDS: Become a Co-op Member today &

participate in the dividend program. SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY.


Dorscie Patt erson celebrated her 102nd birthday on January 25 and it took some doing to track her down to talk about this incredible milestone

in her life. Dorscie is busy. Sitt ing in the kitchen of her basement suite in the family home, Dorscie pulls her calendar over and spins it around to show me an appointment writt en on every day for the next two weeks. She is a tireless volunteer and an inspiration to everyone she works with.Dorscie was born in the Kirkland Lake area of Ontario in 1913. She was the only child in her family and her father passed away in Saskatchewan when she about three years old. “I was raised by a very strict mother who had very strong community values and that was what I knew, always helping in the community.“Aft er a few severe prairie winters we moved to North Vancouver and we had a corner store with our residence in the back. Th at store was the gathering place for the neighbourhood. Women would come in and pour out their problems and then the clergy would come in and Mother wold tell them which of their fl ock they should go visit. She had a medical background and was well educated, it seemed she was always helping someone.“When I was in high school all the other girls were in their Sweet Sixteen outfi ts but I had black pleated skirts and white blouses, there was no time for fooling around. My Mom met and worked for Tommy Douglas and, at a young age, I att ended many CCF rallies and meetings. I was taught to take an interest in my community, to know what was going on and be part of it.”

Life is Not a Bowl of Cherries, Life is Not a Bowl of Cherries, You have to Work at it.You have to Work at it.


J I M M CG R E G O R

Dorscie Patt erson photo by Marcy Court

Get back to being you.With the latest in affordable hearing

technology from Ears Hearing Langley.

Pricing starting as low as

Everyday LOW PRICE on hearing aid BATTERIES - $1.50/four pack

Personalized customer service and hearing solutions Ongoing support for the life of your hearing aid technology Locally owned independent clinic

$ 95

Put your hearing in the hands of the professionalsKim Galick, RHIP/owner21 years experience in Hearing Health Sciences

✓ Personalized customer service and hearing solutions✓ Ongoing support for the life of your hearing aid technology✓ Locally owned independent clinic✓ FREE Adult Hearing Tests

Everyday LOW PRICE on hearing aid BATTERIES - $1.50/four pack

Unit C 20568 56th Avenue (located next door to Langley Legion)

CALL TODAY 604.427.2828

CALL US TODAY TO BOOK YOUR FREE HEARING TEST

www.earslangley.com /Ears-Hearing-Langley


Being a senior is a reason to smile at Nature’s Fare.

Every Wednesday & Thursday are Senior’s Days.

Enjoy 5% off all regular priced items.

LANGLEY | 120 – 19880 Langley ByPass | 778-278-1300

Mon – Fri: 9am – 7pm | Sat: 9am – 6pm | Sun: 10am – 6pm

www.naturesfare.com

Senior’sday s

LOCAL · ORGANIC · BISTRO · PRODUCE · GROCERY · VITAMINS · SUPPLEMENTS · BEAUTY · HOUSEHOLD

Live well. Live organic.


Dorscie was a founding member of the Langley Hospice Society 31 years ago. She continues to do regular palliative care visits to the hospital and serves on the board, att ending two or more meetings a month. In addition, she serves on the board of the Hospice Th rift store in Walnut Grove, att ending regularly there as well.“One day 31 years ago, a few ladies were sitt ing in Janine McCarthy’s kitchen discussing the need for a hospice and we decided to get the word out and get one going. We got a cheque for $50 from the Kinett es and that paid for stamps to send out pamphlets and a phone and we were in business. Th ings just don’t happen unless you make them happen.”Dorscie has also been a member of the lady Lions as well and regularly att ends meetings and functions. She points to a stack of envelopes waiting for mailing, “I am in charge of keeping track of the club members’ birthdays and sending out their birthday cards. It’s jobs like that that keep you going,

you need a purpose.” Add to that her membership in the Beta Sigma Phi and the Salvation Army Church, you can see how the calendar fi lls up.Dorscie had a career as a teacher and recalls the challenge she was given at Van-Tech. “Th ey told me it didn’t really matt er what the curriculum was, I was to keep the students in school. I decided to make learning interesting and took them out of the classroom on regular fi eld trips.“We went to art galleries, Essondale, and we sat in court rooms. Th ey had to learn that there were many things out there they weren’t going to learn in class and it was a great experience for everyone. When I retired we had moved out here to our farm and for a retirement gift they gave me these yellow cedar trees that you see now standing tall and lining the property. Th ey are a great legacy.”Dorscie and her husband moved to their

A younger Dorscie

Dorscie PattersonDorscie Patterson


WALK • JOG • RUN • PLAY • WE FIT FEET • peninsularunners.com

LANGLEY604-888-1338

#1-20349 88 Avenue

WHITE ROCK604-531-7879

1708 152 Street

ABBOTSFORD604-746-1338

#3-1707 Salton Road

LANGLEY’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED RUNNING & WALKING STORE...

Come in to receive a

1010%%offoff Seniors discountSeniors discount on any regular priced

footwear. and receive a

FREEFREEGait Analysis

to determine which is the best shoe for you!

Peninsula Runners has been serving Langley for 13 years.

WE FIT FEET Make sure you get

“FIT” the next time you need a pair of shoes

for running orexercise!

We pride ourselves on our goodold-fashioned customer service!Whether you are new to exercise, a veteran runner,

or just need a good pair of walking shoes.Peninsula Runners carries a wide selection of walking and running shoes in many widths, sizes and styles. Before you purchase we will assess your gait

and your needs to ensure you get a properly fi t shoe.

OL’ CROWOL’ CROWBARBERBARBER

20508 Fraser Hwy. in McBurney LaneWed., Thurs., Fri.: 9-5 • Sat: 9-4 • Sun., Mon., Tues., CLOSED

No appointments!604.532.0298

I NEED YOUR HEADTO RUN MY BUSINESS

All Men’sHaircuts$$1010


property on the Langley/Surrey border in 1975. Th ey were married for 61 years and raised two children, a son and a daughter, and she now has three grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Her husband and her son have both passed away.Dorscie values her independence. “I suppose one day I’ll have to move to a facility of some sort but I have my suite here where I do my own cooking and look aft er the housework. I still have my driver’s licence and my car and I drive regularly. I go for a yearly physical and last time my doctor said my eye test was bett er than the year before. I want to know your secret, he said.”So what is her secret? “Th ere is no secret,” she replies. “I enjoy life and I enjoy being with people and keeping busy, no sitt ing around. Even aft er we retired we had a 40-foot boat and we were out on that oft en. I have been active all my life, swimming, skating, gymnastics, playing the piano and painting. I still paint, when I have time for it.“Life is not a bowl of cherries, things don’t drop in your lap, and you have to work for it. I try to leave people smiling, get up get on with it.”When asked what she sees as the biggest change in 102 years, she frowns. “It’s not good. Our education is going down the drain, no one is reading anymore. We are losing our neighbourhoods because people don’t participate any more. Th ey all have their faces buried in some sort of device and unless we can get people talking to each other again, it doesn’t look good.”Dorscie celebrated her big day at her church at the Gateway of Hope with family, friends and Black Forest cake.

5840 Glover R oad, 604.514.1210 • w w w.magnoliagardens.netA Br ia Communit yTM by Centur y Group

...like to garden, work on your favorite crafts, exercise, bingo, bus outings, parties?

Suites now available. Call 604 514-1210 today

to arrange a tour.

Who said retirement living couldn’t be fun?Who said retirement living couldn’t be fun?

Are you looking for the freedom to get involved in those activities you just didn’t have time for? Now is the time to just have some great fun, in a caring and professional atmosphere that will offer you a worry free and relaxing and affordable lifestyle. Magnolia Gardens delivers it all!M AGNOLI A

G A R D E N S

• 24/7 person-centered care• Engaging music and horticulture therapy programs• Single rooms afford privacy and dignity• Contemporary residence is modern, safe and comfortable• Private placement available, call now for an appointment

5451-204th Street, Langley, BC | 604.530.2305 | www.langleylodge.org

Serving Langley Seniors Since 1974

/LangleyLodge



It may be the designated time of the year to remember and celebrate our heritage, but that activity is ongoing in Langley. Th e City and Township of Langley are leaders when it comes to heritage preserva-

tion and both places realize the potential of heritage tourism to help drive economic activity.Known as the “Birthplace of B.C.”, Fort Langley fi rst comes to mind when discussing heritage places, but Langley has much more to off er historical buff s with its buildings and landscapes spread out throughout its various communities. Th ere are a number of heritage precincts and landmarks for people of all ages to explore and enjoy.

Th rough the work of organizations such as the Langley Heritage Society, the Heritage Advisory Committ ee, local governments and private builders, there are many places to view and visit in remembering our past. Because of its vast land size Langley has grown as a community of com-munities and in each area you will fi nd a building, a plaque, a cairn - or just a vista or landscape which brings out the best of the past.“Th e Township of Langley values where we came from and

L A N G L E Y ’ S H E R I TA G E&celebrate

M E L KO S I T S K Y

Photos courtesy Township of Langley

Shortreed Residence before & aft er. “Th e simplifi ed, Craft sman-infl uenced

design refl ects the austerity of the immediate post-First World War era, but also demonstrates the nostalgic traditionalism that suff used North America aft er the end of the war

and the return of peace,” Township heritage planner Elaine Horricks.

Th e building is currently located in the 2600 block of 272A Street.

22301 Fraser HighwayMurrayville, Langleywww.SunridgeGardens.netA Bria Community® by Century Group

We’re going places... together!Sunridge Gardens is a new community for seniors

who want to stay active, live independently, and have funwith their friends and families every day.

You’ll like living here!

RETIREMENT LIVING!

BOUND FORADVENTURE

-------------------CALL US TODAY

604 510-5091

From $1,775 a monthFrom $1,875 a month

CALL US TODAY604 510-5091


it is important that we continue to honour our past,” said Mayor Jack Froese. “Historic places convey our unique story as a community and we know the owners of registered heritage sites invest a lot in preserving, restoring, or adapting their historic buildings for new uses.”Heritage planner Elaine Horricks says Lang-ley’s historical signifi cance can be att ributed to those characteristics and events that have af-forded it a place within the regional, provincial and national landscape - primarily related to its geography and location on the Fraser River, with its ties with First Nations, and its strategic

position in the Pacifi c Northwest during the Hudson’s Bay Company era. Incorporated in 1873, two years aft er the establishment of the province, the Township of Langley is the third oldest municipality in British Columbia.Because of its deep history, Langley has been tied to stories about the establishment of the province, such as the Gold Rush of 1858 and the Declaration of the Crown Colony of B.C. Horricks says the early trade centres which cre-ated the downtowns of today, its streetscapes and neighbourhood nodes, its distinct com-munity businesses, and its cultural landscapes

and transportation infrastructure remain key elements in the district.Th e most signifi cant remaining historic sites are representative of the Township’s major his-toric sett lement periods, from the pioneering eff orts of the Hudson’s Bay Company and the fi rst agricultural homesteads, to the later and more sophisticated mill-cut homes and com-mercial establishments of the Edwardian boom era that preceded the First World War. Many of Langley’s sites consist of more than just an individual building, as their landscape and sur-roundings add to our understanding of how

L A N G L E Y ’ S H E R I TA G E

Hope Carriage House, the last remaining building of a Fort Langley estate built in 1912 is located in the heart of Fort Langley behind the famous Community Hall. Photos courtesy Township of Langley

FREE GROCERY DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE AT BOTH LANGLEY LOCATIONS!

#117-8850 Walnut Grove Drive

604.513.4377 OPEN 8AM-9PM DAILY

4121 - 200th Street

604.533.1823OPEN 8AM-9PM DAILY

WALNUT GROVE BROOKSWOOD

RECEIVE FREE DELIVERYWHEN YOU CALL INYOUR GROCERY LIST

BETWEEN 9-11AMON TUESDAYS

AT OUR WALNUT GROVE STOREOR WEDNESDAYS

AT OUR BROOKSWOOD STORE.(MIN. $25.00 ORDER)

CHECK OUT OUR FLYER ONLINE AT www.buy-lowfoods.com


they were originally inhabited and utilized.“We truly appreciate the eff orts taken to conserve these sites. Th e Township created the Commu-nity Heritage Register Plaque Program to recog-nize that commitment,” said Mayor Froese. “Th e program started in 2010 and since then close to a dozen projects have been commemorated for enhancing our conservation eff orts and helping to preserve Langley Township’s unique history.”Th ree times per year Langley Township off ers its Heritage Building Incentive Program, which funds up to 50 per cent of the cost of refurbish-ing the exterior of designated heritage buildings. To be eligible for a grant, owners must have their residential, commercial, institutional, industrial or agricultural buildings listed in the Township’s Heritage Inventory, which documents the com-munity’s historic places. Th e amount of funding received through the program depends on the level of legal protection a property has. Up to 50 per cent of exterior project costs can be contrib-uted to sites that have offi cial heritage designation under municipal bylaws or through Heritage Re-

vitalization Agreements.“We need a commitment from the owner, and the minimum criteria is that the building needs to be on the Register. Th e goal is to encourage invest-ment in our heritage resources,” said Horricks. “Once they are gone, they are gone for good. We want to keep these gems.”She estimated the program has generated an in-vestment in excess of $2 million in conservation projects since 2006, which compares very favour-ably with similar programs that support heritage sites around the province.Buildings or resources qualify for inclusion on the Community Heritage Register based on a thorough evaluation of their architectural, cultural and historic att ributes. Resources on the Community Heritage Register are also included on the British Columbia Register of Historic Places, and may be included on the Canadian Register of Historic Places: www.historicplaces.caFor more information go to www.heritagebc.ca.

Right: Th e Cummings residence was part of the Edwardian-era expansion of Murray’s Corners.Th e Roderick Cummings house was built at 21561 Old Yale Road approximately 97 years ago. Photos courtesy Township of Langley

+ taxDine-In OnlyChild $599

5-10 yrsToddler $299

3-4 yrs

2 & under Freeincludes bottomless pop!

$1299


Gladys Andreas is playing the hammered dulcimer on left .

Old time f i d d l e m u s i c

has become a major att raction at the Aldergrove OAP Hall, with fans coming from as far as Vancouver and Hope to dance Saturday aft ernoons away.Gladys Andreas, who has been coordinating the twice-monthly dances here since she started it in June of 2013, says, “It’s been very successful. We have 60 to 80 att end, with the oldest regular being 94 years old. Many of them would like us to play every week but it would be hard to get all the players to commit to that.”Th e orchestras are all volunteers from the Central Fraser Valley Fiddlers, Surrey Old Time Fiddlers and Hazelmere Heritage Fiddlers, who take turns at providing the music for the dances.

Gladys is a long-time member of all of these fi ddle organizations and performs herself with the groups at their weekly rehearsals, as well as at their dances and shows.“We play schott isches, waltzes, polkas, foxtrots, heel and toe, and square dances,” says Gladys.“Julius Cott er, who is 90, calls the square dances, and sometimes he joins in on fi ddle or harmonica. It’s rewarding to see people enjoying themselves, the smiles on faces, the rapport they have, hugging one another. It’s inspired me to start writing a poem about it.”While most are there to dance, Gladys notes there are some who come just to listen and enjoy themselves even if they are wheelchair-bound.Th e cost to att end is kept low, thanks to other volunteers such as Norm and Mary Hildrum, who

help by shopping for, and preparing the refreshments, sausage and cheese plates and desserts. Th e $6 admission fee includes everything, from the music to the refreshments and light lunches.“People love the treats. We’re going to have cupcakes with red hearts on them for the Valentine’s day dance,” says Gladys.And while the fi ddlers, accompanied by pianists and guitarists, are all volunteers many of them are professional performers. Gladys has performed in Las Vegas, and Surrey Fiddlers president Evan Sanyshyn and his son Michael are top notch players. Michael is a winner of many awards and has performed on concert tours across the North American continent with many of the top country music stars, but he enjoys sitt ing in with the old time fi ddlers if he has a free night.A retiree herself, Gladys keeps busy as a contributing member of 11 organizations, as well as contributing to the upcoming B.C. Old Time Fiddlers Association history book.But her fi rst love is playing fi ddle — as well as dulcimer and mandolin.“I grew up on a farm in Alberta and that’s what we did for fun, we played music and went to dances.”Th e Aldergrove Seniors’ Old Time Dances are held every second Saturday, 1-4 p.m. at Aldergrove OAP Hall, 3015 - 273 St. Cost is $6

per person, includes refreshments. Upcoming dates to mark on calendars are Feb. 28, March 14 and 28, no dance April 11 as there will be line dancing instead that day, and resumes on April 25, May 9 and 23, June 6 and 20. Th ere is a summer break for July and August, and dances resume in September.Th e Surrey Fiddlers also host monthly dances at Clayton Hall, 18513 - 70 Ave., on the fi rst Th ursday of each month from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m.Th e public is also welcome to att end the weekly practices of the fi ddlers, although there is no dance fl oor available at the venues. Typically 15 to 20 members att end and musician guests are also able to sit in and play.Central Fraser Valley Fiddlers meet every Wednesday, 6:45-9:45 p.m. at the Hallmark seniors’ centre, 3055 Princess St., Abbotsford. Th ere is no admission fee. Funds raised by the club go to providing fi ddle workshops for youths.Hazelmere Heritage Fiddlers meet every Monday, 7-9 p.m. at Hazelmere Heritage Hall, 16 Ave. at 184 St., Cloverdale. Admission is $2. Funds raised by the club go to hall maintenance and to the food bank.

K U RT L A N G M A N N

Fiddle tunes delight at seniors’ dances

Tired of the same meals Tired of the same meals week after week?week after week?

Gourmet Takeaway is a proud, approved supplier to Veteran’s Affairs Canada (VAC).

Providing a great selection of quality meals that change monthly, delivered to your door

(or pick-up) for Seniors, Singles and Busy Families.CATERING ALSO AVAILABLE. CALL FOR DETAILS.

604.533.0700gourmettakeaway.ca#3-6280 202 St., Langley

202 S

treet

64th Ave

62nd Ave

LONDON DRUGS

Special Diet:Diabetes, low fat & low sodium meals.


On the Road for a Cure for Cancer – in Dorothy’s Memory B R E N D A A N D E R S O N

One of the many photos taken by Don McIntyre on his drive to Tuktoyaktuk. Don McIntyre photo

Don McIntyre’s northern adventure is coming to an end.Having accomplished what he set out to do — drive

nearly 4,000 km to Tuktoyaktuk alone in the dead of winter — the 82-year-old Langley man is returning with a clear sense of accomplish-ment, hundreds of photos and some great memories.On Sunday morning, Feb. 1, McIntyre climbed into his white Honda Crosstour and set out on his own for the farthest reaches of northern Canada — a drive he would make as a tribute to his late wife, who passed away from cancer in July 2013. His journey, Titled On the Road Again For Dorothy, began as a fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society, but for McIntyre it also became an opportunity to remember his wife, to say goodbye and to remind himself that he still has plenty of life to live.“I was kind of making up my mind as I drove,” he said over the phone, from his granddaughter Arica’s home in Whitehorse.“I did what I could when (Dorothy) was alive and I’ve done what I can now that she’s gone. “I’ve got to turn the page. I’m not turning my back on her, but I’ve done all I can.”During their 55-year marriage the Langley couple oft en spent weeks at a time on the open road, driving from coast to coast across Canada and around the U.S., usually in their RV, camping along the way.Aft er Dorothy died, McIntyre made a solo drive from Arizona, winding

along the Gulf Coast, to Key West, Fla. It was tough, he said, navigating some of the large U.S. cities, without Dorothy in the passenger seat to guide him.But when it comes to sheer degree of diffi culty, McIntyre said, the drive to Tuktoyaktuk is the most challenging he’s faced in North America. “Th ere was ice, there was black ice, there was icy compact snow, there was rutt ed, icy compact snow with black ice in between, and there was snow so (heavy) you could not see, and the big trucks were dropping big chunks of ice that you did not want to hit,” he wrote in an email to friends and family.“Th ere’s no forgiveness up there,” he added. “You can’t do something stupid or you’ll pay the price.Th e ice highway between Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk was a revelation in itself — as wide as two football fi elds in places, said McIntyre. It is smooth as glass, he explained, until it nears the ocean where it develops “huge, ugly” ridges that limit drivers to speeds of 10 km/h.And then there were the extreme cold temperatures, which at times dipped as low as -46 C (-51 F) without windchill As he travelled north, McIntyre would pull over occasionally to take photos of the spectacular — and incredibly remote — scenery. “You can’t be an atheist up there,” he said. “I think I was just overwhelmed with the beauty,” he said. “Blue sky and acres of white snow. It’s so big, so vast.”


I have gone to the end of the earth, so to speak. WHY? To run away from my grief? If so, the trip was a failure, because I still mourn. To fi ght cancer? If so the trip has been moderately successful. To go on a grand adventure? If so, the trip was a great success. I wanted to prove as Dorothy always said age does not matt er, it is how you live your life. To push to the limit of my courage and stamina? If so I have to admit that I did that. When I started up the Dempster highway, I was really wondering what I had got myself into, and a couple of times I was quite tired. Please believe me when I say the trip was wonderful. Th e Arctic is beautiful in winter, the drive challenging, and the people ever so friendly.So what is there to say, except to say that I learned that one cannot run away from one’s grief. It is here to stay. One can only learn to cope, and to get used to it. ~ Don McIntyre

It is done.


Seven days aft er he pulled out of Fort Langley, McIntyre found himself bundled in his parka and mitt ens, standing at the edge of the frozen Arctic Ocean, clutching a bouquet of silk roses he’d brought to lay in Dorothy’s memory.As he stood there, he caught the eye of a local man who had been trying, unsuccessfully, to start his snowmobile. Eventually, the man wandered over, introduced himself as Roger Ett aqaik, and the two struck up a conversation.“He said he’d been a photographer in another life,” recalled McIntyre. And so it was, through the chance meeting with Ett aqaik, that the Langley man fi nally ended up with a couple of pictures of himself standing at the top of the world — photographic proof of his accomplishment.McIntyre laid the roses, along with a poem he’d writt en for Dorothy, at the gate of the town’s cemetery before heading back down the ice highway toward Inuvik and the fi rst leg of his journey home.He was ahead of schedule, having arrived in ‘Tuk’ a day earlier than expected. During his drive north from Dawson City, McIntyre had planned to break his journey at Eagle Plains and booked a room there for the night. When he arrived, the clerk told him that a storm was expected to blow through the following day. She advised him to get ahead of it, so McIntyre carried on to Inuvik.A few days later, as he passed through Eagle Plains on his way south, McIntyre decided once again to carry on driving, rather than stay overnight as planned.

As he gassed up his vehicle, the same woman with whom he’d spoken a few days earlier came running out to the pumps with an envelope in her hand.Aft er he’d left , she explained, she’d told his story to some of the locals and truckers on their way through town. Passing the hat around, they raised $250 for his cause.So far, McIntyre’s On the Road Again For Dorothy campaign has raised about $3,600 for the Canadian Cancer Society.He hopes it has also raised a bit of awareness.It’s important, McIntyre said, that people realize that just because someone has reached a certain age, it doesn’t mean their journey is over.“People look at seniors and they don’t pay att ention. Th ey think our lives our fi nished, but we’re not fi nished — not if you have reasonable health and the will to keep going.”Asked where he’d like to go next, McIntyre chuckled.“Th ere’s really nowhere left to drive,” he said.Leaving Whitehorse, the Langley senior planned to make one more stop on his way home — in Prince Rupert, where his son, Cameron, lives. From there, he said, he planned to book passage on the ferry to Port Hardy and, with nothing left to prove to himself or anyone else, let someone else do the driving for a while.“I feel a lot bett er for having made the trip,” McIntyre said.“I’m prett y proud of myself, to tell you the truth.”

LANGLEY #111-6360-202 St. 604-530-1735

be safe

L 35

CLEARANCE MODELS AVAILABLE NOW!• Manual Wheelchairs • Scooters • Easy Lift Chairs • Walkers and Canes

• Power Wheelchairs • Bathroom Safety Products • ADLs• Ceiling Track Lift Systems

Free In-Home DemosFree In-Home Demos •• SalesSales •• RentalsRentals •• ServiceServicewww.a-1wheelchairs.cawww.a-1wheelchairs.ca

bbbbbbbbeeeeeeeeee sssssaaaaaaaaaafffffffffeeeeeee

bebe comfortable

be independentbe active

be safe

be free

WHEELCHAIRSWHEELCHAIRSUNLIMITEDUNLIMITED SUPPLY LTD.

On the Road Again – For Dorothy

Barbara A. PunnettBarbara A. Punnett - -R.D.R.D.

DENTURE CLINICComplete Denture Service since 1980

smile solutions

20785 Fraser Hwy., Langley604-534-4400

Call for your appointment�

• Complete & Partial Dentures

• Dentures on Implants

• Relines • Soft Lower

Denture Liners • Repairs &

Adjustments • Complimentary

Consultation


When it comes to community

building Langley has an advantage over most other places.Because of its rich history and agricultural base, distinct communities were created in Langley that exist today - and nearly all of those areas still have their own community halls run by a non-profi t organization composed of dedicated neighbours. Th ey act as gathering places for all age groups or as community hubs for special events. Th ey are also utilized extensively by the fi lm industry.And Langley Township would

like to keep it that way. Last May the Township’s Heritage Advisory Committ ee held a workshop at Milner Church Hall to support the long-term survival of community halls by collecting and documenting information on how local halls are run, funded and maintained, as well as how volunteers are engaged and resources utilized. More than 20 not-for-profi t organizations came to the workshop to talk about their concerns and share information.“We wanted to know why they think these halls are important,” said local historian Jane Watt , who heads the task force working on this project. Th e

M E L KO S I T S K Y

Reviving the HEART of the COMMUNITY

www.

donn

avan

beek

.comEveryone needs a

NOTARY PUBLICat some point in their life

Call Donna M. Van BeekYour answer for Personal & Quality Service

604-888-6605201, 20171 - 92A Ave, Walnut Grove

• Estate Planning • Mortgages• Powers of Attorney • Property Transfers• Wills • Codicils

• Representation Agreements and Advance Health Care Directives

LangleyMemorialHospitalFoundation

www.lmhfoundation.com

604.533.6422

SUPPORT HEALTHCARE IN YOUR COMMUNITY WITH A LEGACY GIFT TO THE LANGLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

What will your legacy be?

101-22198 48th Ave, Langley • 604-533-8475Website: oracare.ca Email: [email protected] EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS AVAILABLE

Dr. Faria ChohanDentist

Dentistry has never been easier...

60 is the new 40 COMPLIMENTARY

Take Home Whitening KitWith every new patient

exam, cleaning and xrays.

Bonding • Porcelain Veneers • Inlays and Onlays Teeth Whitening • Tooth Extractions • Dental Sealants • Bridges

Crowns • Dentures • Fillings & Restorations Gum Disease Laser Therapy • Root Canals

We now offer Oral Sedation Dentistry



proposed sourcebook will look at how to foster strong societies, governance, maintenance, fi nances and future planning.Th e workshop was one of the action steps recommended in a new Heritage Strategy, which was endorsed by Township Council in 2012. It outlines strategic goals and actions for heritage that align with the broader civic goals of economic, environmental and cultural sustainability.Langley is home to 15 community halls, each owned and run by a hall society. Nine halls have been recognized or legally protected for their heritage value. Th ese halls are integral to modern Langley. Th ey were built over the last century through community fundraising and donations of land, materials and labour.

Th e advisory committ ee’s task force will be releasing its fi ndings in the form of a guide book later this spring. Watt says: “Our halls exist at the heart of the distinct neighbourhoods that make up the Township of Langley. We know that halls are really good for our community. Langley was built on cooperation, working together, and looking out for each other. Th at’s what we want to capture and enhance in the halls’ sourcebook that we are creating - a go-to document for hall volunteers.”Th ese halls continue to make strong social contributions to their neighbourhoods and to the larger community. Th ey host banquets, weddings and other special events, as well as regular programs for

Th e newly renovated Willoughby Hall left , and as it looked in 2010.

*Hearing screenings are always

We understand how challenging hearing problems can be for people.

Backed by 65 years of experience our team of hearing care professionals can help you find solutions for better hearing. So you may hear “I Love You” this Valentines Day or any day of the year.

The best reassurance that you are not missing any sweet sounds is to get a *FREE hearing screening at Miracle-Ear.

DON’T MISS ANY SWEETSOUNDS THIS FEBRUARY

BUY ONE, GET ONE 50% OFFBuy one fully digital Miracle-Ear

hearing aid & get the second one 50% off!

Offer valid on ME-1 or ME-2 Hearing Solutions only. No other offer or discounts apply. Offer cannot be combined and does not apply to prior sales. See participating Miracle-Ear stores for details. Offer expires 03/15/15.

Langley#106 – 20641 Logan Ave.

(604) 227-7744www.miracle-ear-langley.ca

© 2014 Miracle-Ear, Inc.

South Surrey#250-15355-24th Avenue

(604) 243-9196www.miracle-ear-southsurrey.ca

Guildford Village Square#203A 15135-101 Ave. Surrey

(604) 256-6901www.miracle-ear-guildford.ca


LIVING 60+ RESOURCE GUIDE

various youth groups, seniors, religious groups, fi tness classes, craft sales, trade shows, and even act as venues for performing artists.One example is the recently restored Willoughby Hall on 208th Street at 83rd Avenue. Th e hall is a designated heritage building and the restoration work was performed under a Heritage Revitalization Agreement. Work began in 2013 and the hall was offi cially re-opened on May 24, 2014.Th e hall was restored as part of the Athenry Gate apartment development by Peak Construction Inc. New foundations were provided on the same site where it has always stood, a restored exterior - including roof, windows and doors were completed, and an interior upgrading was included in the scope of the project.Despite its modest architectural appearance, the Hall is a Willoughby landmark and is at the centre of social life, constantly in use for meetings, events, birthdays, weddings, dances and community dinners.Th e Willoughby Community Hall has a long history of community

service and volunteering. It was built by volunteers on land donated by Jack ( John) William Bray, a founding member of the society and a former Township Councillor. Construction of a new hall was needed aft er a fi re claimed the original 1924 building - a structure that was also at the centre of community life and served as the fi rst elementary school in the area. Construction of the second hall under Bray’s direction started in 1937 and was offi cially opened on January 14, 1938. Its governing body, the Willoughby Community Hall Society, incorporated under the Societies Act as a non-profi t body on April 12, 1937. Over the years functional additions have been added, such as the porch entrance and a cloak room - and these features remain at the newly-renovated hall.

THE HUB OF THE COMMUNITY

New foundations were provided as part of the Willoughby Hall renovations.Seniors (55+) are invited to enjoy a social luncheon that includes guest speakers, good food and great company.

9 locations to choose from, 4 days a week.Cost: $5.00 • Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Call for more information: 604-533-1679

Food & Friends Socials

20660 - 48th Avenue, Langley BC V3A 3L6 Phone: 604.530.1115 | Fax: 604.530.8851

Email: [email protected]

Programs are FREE of Charge | No Referral Needed

Langley Hospice Society

Providing compassionate care and support since 1983

Providing compassionate care and support within the community through:

• Individual and group grief support programs• Supportive Steps Walking Group for Bereaved Adults – Tuesdays @ 1PM• A Resource Library• Caregiver Respite and Vigil Support• 10 Bed Langley Hospice Residence Certified Professional

Consultant on Aging

CPCA®

Certifi ed Relocation & Transition Specialists (CRTS) and Certifi ed Professional Consultant on Aging (CPCA) meet education & exam requirements, are held to insurance, security screening & continuing education.

Let Alison Porter, CPCA® CRTS®, Certifi ed Professional Consultant on Aging and Certifi ed Relocation and Transition Specialist handle all the logistics needed for your next move

— sorting, purging, packing, transfer / cancellation of services, and resettlement.

Everything just as it should be…a smooth seamless transition!

Specializing in assisting Seniors and Families with their next move with our all inclusive services. References available upon request.

Compass Seniors’ Inc.604-531-8772ww.compass-seniors.ca

COMPASSmakes downsizing & relocation for seniorsEASY, FUN& STRESS FREE!

Two Nurses with Big Hearts

www.twonurseswithbighearts.cawwww

“We treat your loved ones like our own”

Local company providing personal care, foot care (medical pedicures) and companionship and more. Safe, competent care.Contact 604-807-0991for a free in home consultation. Save 25% off your fi rst visit.


I was coming out of a grocery store the other day and a young boy about 11 or 12 years old was standing beside

his bike which had a fl at tire. He was wear-ing blue jeans a jacket and new sneakers. He reminded me of generations of many other young boys running errands on his bike, except for one thing. He was using his cell phone to call his Mom to come pick him up because his tire was fl at. I suppose my generation has to accept the fact that life has moved on and technology has created ways and means for us to live a much less complicated life. But gett ing your own bike was a sign of independence and freedom. Riding a bike used to be some-thing you had to do if you wanted to keep up with everyone. I remember when they paved Norris Road. No more gravel or pot holes and every kid on that street from the McGregors at one end down to the Muenchs at the other end rode back and forth on that smooth black pavement for hours until it was dark.I’ve never had a fancy bicycle. My fi rst one was my older brother’s worn out CCM. Th ere were no frills like hand brakes or chain guards. Once in a while the chain would grab my pant leg and slam me down on the bar. Remember that guys? Boys that wore hats with ear fl aps or pants with bicycle clips had a tough time in elemen-tary school and a torn right pant cuff was a badge of courage.My fi rst new bike was a heavy duty Schwinn with balloon tires and a big black metal paper carrier on the front handlebars. Good for the paper route but not so good for speed, unless you were going down-hill. One day and as my buddy and I were coasting down the 208th St. hill, which was mostly gravel back in those days, my jacket was in the carrier and a sleeve worked its way through, jammed between the spokes

and the front forks and the bike stopped, right now. I became the Human Cannonball arms stretched out in front, and landed hard. But I had no way of calling anyone. We had to fi gure things out for ourselves.As I drove home from the

grocery store, I found myself visualizing my old paper route bike. On the back of the seat were 2 slots that the straps of the tool kit buckled to. Inside the kit were a few important tools that would save you from having to walk the last half of your route if you had a break down.Th e bicycle wrench was a truly amazing invention, rivalling the Swiss army knife for its versatility. Th e wrench had seven or eight diff erent sized hexagon and square cut outs that could loosen or tighten any bolt on your bike and usually had one or more tabs to be used as a screw driver.Most guys carried a small can of 3-in-1 oil in their pouch and maybe a pair of pliers. I always had wire cutt ers to cut the copper wire that held the paper bundles together when they got tossed off the truck. But a vi-tal addition to the tool kit was the puncture repair kit.Th ey came in metal tins in various sizes and shapes marked Dunlop or Goodyear and if you had a fl at at the corner of Carvolth and New McLellan you were a long way from home. Even if you did have the courage to knock on someone’s door and ask to use the phone, nobody was going to jump in the car and come to get you.You would take the tool kit off , fl ip

the bike up so it rested on the seat and handlebars and undo the nuts holding the wheel to the frame. Th e front one was easy, but if it was the rear, you had to contend with the chain.Next you had to pull the tube out. Good bikes had a bicycle pump att ached to the lower bar of the frame. Aft er you pumped up the tube you had two options, you could put the tube up to your face and spin it un-til you felt the air coming out or you could hold it in a puddle and watch for bubbles.Once the hole was found, you buff ed it with the small rasp in the puncture kit, let the glue dry for a minute then put on the patch. Aft er you ran your fi ngers around inside the tire to check for anything sharp, you put it all back together, pumped it up, bolted it on and went on your way. Today, if the professionals break down in the French Alps, they don’t phone Mom; they just grab a new bike and carry on.Maybe for my next lesson, I’ll discuss how to get your pants leg out of the bicycle chain. I can’t believe my buddies and I sur-vived our childhood without cell phones. At least that’s what McGregor says.

mcgregor saysthe best of

Navigating Through Childhood Without a Cell Phone

LIVIINGNGNG6060PLLUSS

d

Jim McGregor

MCGREGOR

says

No two of us are alike.

The City of Langley’s only funeral home since 1955, Henderson’s Langley Funeral Home was established by the

Henderson Family, a name synonymous with funeral service in the Fraser Valley.

As a Dignity Memorial provider, we take great pride in being part of our community. And to us, that means more

than just doing business here. it means serving others. It means being a good neighbour. It means we truly care

about the people here, our city’s past, and its future.

Henderson’s Langley20786 Fraser Highway, Langley

778-726-0376 www.hendersonslangleyfunerals.com

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Call us today to receive your FREEPersonal Planning Guide.

Be informed, be preparedyou owe this to your loved ones

Dignity Memorial® is a brand name used to identify a network of licensed funeral, cremation and cemetery providers that comprise the Dignity Memorial® Network. The Dignity Memorial® Network includes a liates of Service Corporation International, the world’s largest death care company, as well as many other ne independently owned and operated funeral establishments.

february 24, 2015

Documents

e s s e n

e y t i

t u r e

i f e s t y

n e f e b r u

t months

langley branch19915

r t i c