Third Age Learning Niagara (TALN) is a not-for-profit organization, offering a unique opportunity for people over the age of 55 in Niagara to learn about topics that are interesting to them, in an engaging and exciting way. TALN offers three themed Learning Series per year, with four presentations in each Learning Series. TALN will have presenters who are experts in their fields and who are known for providing interactive and stimulating learning opportunities for our members who have a desire to continue growing and learning.

March learning series starts March 7 see www.thirdagelearningniagara.ca for more details 

CARP stands for Canadian Association of Retired Persons for the 45 plus.  It was founded in 1984 in Toronto and was modeled after the AARP. The size of the membership is 300,000 across all of Canada and supported by more than 30 chapters and CARP national is located in Toronto.

We are the Niagara chapter and we have over 6000 members spread across 12 communities.

Joining the Niagara chapter can be done either online at carp.ca or by phone at 1-800-363-9736. In both cases please ensure that the membership is assigned to chapter #31 which is Niagara. The yearly membership is less than $25 that includes the 9 issues of Zoomer Magazine and membership is free for your spouse or partner. 

CARPs purpose consists of three corner stones which are Advocacy, Benefits and Community. 

Advocacy,  CARP is the voice of this strong membership as they age and improve the quality of life by Advocating social change to bring financial security, access to high quality health care and freedom from discrimination for all Canadians as we age. CARP advocates for change in areas where gaps in law and policy make aging difficult. 

Some of the current wins; retirement income security by playing a pivotal role in ORPP , expanded support for caregivers by getting the EI compassionate care benefit increased from 6 weeks to 6 months, got the law changed in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec to have sprinklers mandatory in all nursing homes. 

Benefits, CARP has negotiated up to 50% off on various products & services. The average CARP member saves hundreds of dollars through our partners. These partners cover various sectors such as medical services and appliances, car rental agencies, home care and downsizing services, hotels and travel, and wireless provider.

Community, that is the local chapter and in our case the Niagara chapter #31. We offer the opportunity for a meeting place for members to stay active, be socially involved and make a contribution to their community. Being involved and participating in the community one gets the sense of satisfaction and the communities also benefit. Volunteering is a form of participation that communities benefit with the social capital that members are providing. 

Social network can positively influence good health behaviors such as success in quitting smoking or remaining active. Conversely social isolated people are more at risk of negative health behaviors including drinking, smoking, being sedentary which can lead to falls. 

 Social isolation is considered a risk factor for elder abuse, including financial abuse and may increase fear of crime and theft. Unfortunately this may cause some to not participate in social activities.

CARP Niagara meetings/events are held at the club house of Royal Niagara Golf course, located at 1 Niagara-On-The-Green Blvd, Niagara-on-the-lake, L0S1J0.

The meetings/events are from 2 - 4 pm and the doors open at 1:30pm. We have coffee, tea and snacks before. We also have a computer users group workshop from 3:30 to 4 pm on the same days as the meeting.

Like us on Facebook @NiagaraRegionCARP, where you will find our events, photos, posts and other information for Niagara seniors. 

The Kingston Meistersingers present JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT!  April 4-14 at the Octave Theatre. 7:30 pm evenings and 2:00 pm matinees. Adults: $28 | Youth: $25 Tickets available at meistersingers.ca 

Feast on a large serving of liver and onions incls potato, coleslaw,roll/butter or try the "COOK'S SURPRISE" ,$ 7 pltx, every Monday from 4-8 PM. Full menu always available. Call 519-253-1834 for more information.

A writing workshop facilitated by Author Patricia Josefchak, at the Brockville Public Library on March 23, 1-3 p.m.; registration required 613-342-3936. Cost $10, includes a workbook.

Spaghetti, Penni, Homemade Meatballs, Sausage, Salad, Bread, Cookies, Coffee & Tea, Adults and Takeout $10.00, Children 5-12 $5.00, Under 5 Free, At The Crystal Ridge Community centre, 99 Ridge Rd. S. Crystal Beach