November’s Lunch & Learn had a timely topic – Easing the Transitions of Life. Our speaker was Christine Janev, M.A., RP, RSW, who works primarily with older people dealing with the life challenges that are involved in aging. She reminded us of the ways life can change suddenly or gradually as we age, and advised us to anticipate the inevitable challenges before they happen, make a realistic and manageable plan and work through setting up supports as much as possible before a crisis arises.

When movie night falls on Halloween it is an opportunity to go a little out of routine. Movie goers enjoyed some popcorn and Halloween treats along with the movie for an extra special evening. Trick or Treat!!

Movie night is on the last Tuesday of each month. See you again in November.

This month’s Lunch & Learn was presented by Emilio de Santis, Assistant Branch Head of Richview Public Library. He amazed residents by running through a long long list of services available there. Did you know that there is a 3D printer, or that you can gain free admission to local attractions through the library website? You can take an online course, or learn a foreign language, download movies for free or read magazines from around the world.  Would you be interested to read consumer reports, or learn about your car? There is so much more than can be listed here. Libraries have certainly kept pace with the changing world.

After the presentation some residents stayed to get library cards and others gathered in the Bistro for coffee and treats.

Yesterday families joined in an afternoon of Halloween crafts in the Recreation Centre activity room. The themed crafternoons have become increasingly popular with grandparents, parents and their little ones. We are grateful to all the volunteers who plan, prepare, organize and clean-up afterwards. 

Our Lunch and Learn about  Recognizing and Avoiding Scams was well attended. Two  officers from the local Crime Prevention department showed slides and videos. They explained how scammers operate and how to recognize fraud.  The audience joined in too with questions and anecdotes that indicated how frequently this crime happens.

We were advised to take the time to think before reacting especially when we sense we are being rushed, and to never divulge private information. Scammers are relentless and although many frauds are deliberately targetted at seniors, everyone is vulnerable.

Managing water consumption is good for the environment, saves the condominium money and may save you from expensive water damage.

You should know that bathrooms generally account for more than half the water used indoors so that’s a good place to start. Here are some tips for good water management at home.

• Consider installing low- or dual-flush toilets, low-flow showerheads and faucets with faucet aerators.
• Now may be a good time to change a few personal habits. When washing, brushing your teeth or shaving, try to avoid letting the tap run continuously. Fill a glass with water to rinse your mouth when brushing your teeth. Rinse your razor by filling the bottom of the sink with a few centimetres of water.
• Wondering if you have a slow leak in your toilet? Put a few drops of food colour into the tank, then wait to see if the bowl water changes colour. A plumber will be able to remedy the leak.
• Our municipal water system is not a dump. Do not throw garbage, dental floss or medicine into the toilet.
• Avoid toxic chemicals when cleaning the bathroom – choose biodegradable and environmentally-friendly products.

Small changes can make a big difference over time.