FOUR OUTSTANDING LOWER MAINLAND SENIORS RECOGNIZED

May 4th, 2006

VANCOUVER – Four inspirational seniors who have contributed enormously to their communities were recognized today at the second annual Leisure Care Lighthouse Awards luncheon hosted by David Podmore, president and CEO of Concert Properties.

The Lower Mainland’s second annual Lighthouse Awards are a partnership between the Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Health and Ministry of Community Services, BC Housing, Vancouver Coastal Health, Concert Properties Ltd., the O’Keefe Retirement Community, the BC Retirement Communities Association, the Vancouver Sun, Global TV, Neptune Food Service, and McMillan. The Lighthouse Awards were launched several years ago in the United States by Leisure Care Retirement Communities, based in Seattle.

“As today’s awards demonstrate, British Columbia’s seniors are a dynamic group of people who care about their communities,” said Premier Gordon Campbell. “These are not people who see retirement as a time to slow down, but as an opportunity to become even more involved. Our government is committed to providing the best system of support in Canada for seniors, and the Lighthouse Awards are a great partnership.”

Over 100 nominations in four categories were received for the awards program. The Wisdom of Age Mentorship Award was won by “The Granny Rapper,” Roz Davidson. The Picture of Health Award was given to avid runner and biker Phil Horton. The Shining Light Award was presented to Marg Oakes for her countless hours of volunteer work. The Philanthropy Award was given to Vera Rutledge in recognition of her generosity to her community.

David Podmore, president and CEO of Concert Properties, chaired the judging panel, which included Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and Minister responsible for Seniors’ and Women’s Issues; Shayne Ramsay, CEO, BC Housing; Ida Goodreau, president and CEO, Vancouver Coastal Health; and Carol Omstead, president, BC Retirement Communities Association.

“We were very impressed by the calibre of this year’s finalists,” said Podmore. “We thought last year’s winners were incredible, yet the achievements of this year’s contenders easily matched those. This demonstrates how seniors today are continuing to contribute to society well into their retirement years.”

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BACKGROUNDER
2006 Leisure Care Lighthouse Awards

The Lighthouse Awards recognize adults ages 62 and over living in the Lower Mainland and coastal B.C. who have made a difference in their communities through volunteer service or by serving as an inspiration and role model for others.

The program was started several years ago in the United States by Leisure Care Retirement Communities, based in Seattle. This is the second year that the awards have been held in the Lower Mainland.

Over 100 nominations were received; four finalists were shortlisted in each category. David Podmore, president and CEO of Concert Properties, chaired the judging panel, which included Ida Chong, Minister of Community Services and Minister responsible for Seniors’ and Women’s Issues; Shayne Ramsay, CEO, BC Housing; Ida Goodreau, president and CEO, Vancouver Coastal Health; and Carol Omstead, president, BC Retirement Communities Association.

2006 Lighthouse Recipients

The Wisdom of Age Mentorship Award, which recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the lives of children, was won by Roz Davidson who has been nicknamed “The Granny Rapper” for her anti-bullying songs. The 71-year-old visits schools, libraries, and special events performing her original work.
The Picture of Health Award, which recognizes exemplary commitment to good health and fitness as an older adult, was won by 70-year-old Phil Horton, an avid runner and biker. In his most recent major runs, he placed first and second in his age group. Phil also volunteers with a number of fitness groups.
The Shining Light Award, which recognizes an individual or group for outstanding volunteer service to the community and/or advocacy on behalf of seniors, was won by 89-year-old Marg Oakes. Mrs. Oakes has been caring for others ever since she lost her young son in a traffic accident. She continues to volunteer and encourage other seniors to be involved.
The Philanthropy Award, which recognizes an individual or group who has/have demonstrated a concern for humanity by providing significant financial resources and personal time, was won by Vera Rutledge. At 83, Mrs. Rutledge volunteers with the Crossroads Hospice Society and the Eagle Ridge Hospital Foundation. She is also a major donor, helping out whenever she can, to improve the lives of others.

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Media Contacts:

Susan Thom
Director, Corporate Communications
BC Housing
604 230-1301(cell)

Sam Zeitoun
General Manager
The O'Keefe Retirement Community
604 736-1640

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