I have some sad news to share. Two prominent Burnaby women passed away recently. Simma Holt, a former journalist and MP, died on Jan. 25. She was 92 and living at Burnaby's Seton Villa. I never had the pleasure of interviewing her, but I'm told she was a principled and strong woman. As recently as 2013, she was advocating against proposed bus route changes in her neighbourhood that could have made it more difficult for seniors using public transit.
Holt started working as a reporter at The Vancouver Sun in the 1940s, an era when the field was dominated by men and female reporters were assigned to the "women's pages." Holt worked there for three decades, before securing the Vancouver Kingsway seat for the federal Liberals. Holt passed away from lymphoma.
Carol Matusicky, a Burnaby resident who dedicated her life to helping children and families, passed away on Dec. 5 at 73. I was introduced to Matusicky in 2013 through Jeanne Fike, former executive director at Burnaby Family Life. At the time, the B.C. Council for Families was honouring Matusicky with a Lifetime of Distinguished Service to Families award. Matusicky was a renowned family advocate and former executive director with the council. During her time there, the council set up parenting programs and supportive networks that B.C. families can still use today. Matusicky also sat on 25 provincial government task forces and advisory committees, always with a focus on helping families. Her main emphasis was on prevention - dealing with problems before they start - so people can create healthy families.
"She was such a mentor, a friend, and a bright light in this world for so many," Fike said. "Her impact was local, provincial, national and international. She was steadfast in her advocacy efforts, right up until the end."
Fike said Matusicky's family was deeply grateful for the support the ALS Society provided.
"It was a loving dignified passing over from that terrible disease," Fike added.
"I know Carol is in a better place."
Welcoming dinner
Are you new to the city? Do you have kids? The Burnaby Neighbourhood House would like to invite you to dinner for families who have lived in Burnaby for fewer than five years. The evening will include socializing, food and games. There will also be information on the types of programs the neighbourhood house offers. The event is on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at 4460 Beresford St. Tickets are $3 for adults, $2 for children. (Kids three and under get in for free.) For more information, call Maheen at 604-431-0400.
Sing-Along
Here's something to get you in the mood for Valentine's Day. Local crooner Henry Thompson is organizing the Bonsor Seniors Sing-along this Thursday. We featured Thompson in the NOW last summer, when he performed at Music in the Park, a free performance series put on by EPIC, the Edmonds residents' group. Thompson, now in his 80s, has been singing since he was a young man, working on the railway in India. He regularly organizes the sing-along, which runs twice a month. The event on Thursday will be from 1 to 3 p.m. at 6550 Bonsor Ave. There will be an open microphone at the event, and anyone interested in leading the crowd is welcome to sing. Admission is free.
