.
Search
Email this articleE-mail this story  Discuss this articleWrite letter to editor  Discuss this articleOrder a classified ad

Grey power makes resurgence

Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Simpson (Feb 25/04) - There's a movement afoot to breathe new life into the Fort Simpson Seniors Society.

Three meetings have been held and an acting executive is in place. Interim president Tom Wilson said an annual general meeting will be called in the near future.

"We're a growing segment of the population and we have to make our voices heard," he said.

Having the option of overnight observation at the Fort Simpson health centre is one of the society's initial objectives. Currently, patients are seen and discharged or medevaced out for 24-hour care. Nahendeh MLA Kevin Menicoche was present for that meeting and the concern was relayed to him, said Wilson.

Campaigning to have the format of the phone book's government listings revamped is another goal, he said.

In the meantime, it has been suggested that a list could be drafted and distributed with most frequently called numbers for seniors.

The society also offers a social component, he said. For example, a trip to Lac Ste. Anne, Alta., for an annual spiritual gathering is being discussed.

The Fort Simpson seniors group had been "languishing" since the death of former organizer Bill Laferte and the departure of Jim Villeneuve, said Wilson.

The current group, consisting of close to a dozen people so far, has been gathering at the Stanley Isaiah Supportive Living Home. Christina Holman is acting vice-president and treasurer and Lauren Muir is interim secretary.

Meetings are tentatively scheduled for every second Monday. Those aged 55 and up are invited to join. Associate memberships are available to those who are younger.