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Recorded Classes

What is Prediabetes?

We'll talk about the risk factors, testing, and ways to help prevent developing Type 2 diabetes. You'll leave with nutritional tips and exercise ideas.

Instructor: Darcie Hanson, R.N., clinical coach, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 2, 2021.

Click below for the handouts:

Snack Ideas

Building a Balanced Meal

Prediabetes and Diabetes

Choose Your Foods List

Writing to Connect: A Mother and Son On Writing a Memoir

Linda Drajem and Christopher Drajem wrote a collaborative memoir spanning almost ten years. It began when Linda was an English teacher in Buffalo and Christopher recently moved to Seattle. He came home for a visit told her and the rest of the family he was gay. In this session, mother and son will share their experiences forging a relationship of mutual support and abiding respect focusing on how writing bridged the inevitable gaps. Sharing letters and emails, the two will discuss the impact of outdated gender roles, stifling religious doctrine, and the importance, above all else, of honesty. Participants will leave with a list of suggestions about how to reinforce connections with those who are most important by building on shared values. Instructors: Linda Drajem, Retired English Teacher and Current Memoirist; Christopher Drajem, writer & educator *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 1, 2021.

The Larkin Soap Company

From it's founding in 1875 through it's ultimate demise in 1967, the Larkin Company used "Factory to Family" marketing to get products directly into the homes of Larkin consumers. You'll learn about the Larkin Company's unique marketing that made the company the second largest mail order catalog company in America, but also was the catalyst for it's closure. Instructor: Shane E. Stephenson, director of Museum Collections, Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park; owner, Archives in the Buff *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.

Let's Get Composting!

Learn the science behind composting and the benefits. We'll cover what materials you can compost and how you can get started today either in your own backyard to by taking advantage of some local places that accepting food scraps for composting. Instructors: Gary Carrel, solid waste recycling specialist; Amy Alduino, recycling coordinator, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Environmental Compliance Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.

Increasing Strength and Speed of Movement

While there are many activities that enhance the physical function of older adults - implementing strength training and speed of movement should be a priority. Learn a variety of resistance band exercises that help increase strength in the lower extremities. Also, discover an array of speed training activities that help improve function, balance, power, and mobility. If you are missing that "spark" in your step, this is for you! Instructor: Jill Bronsky, Owner, Forward Fitness Inc.; Author *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 25, 2021.

Fat Facts

Learn about fats - which are the healthiest and which to limit. We'll share tips for adding healthy fats to your meals without sacrificing taste. Instructor: Jennifer Johnson, health promotion coordinator, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 24, 2021.

Senior Services: How We Serve You

Join for a lesson on what Senior Services does and how you can access the programs and services. Instructor: Erie County Department of Senior Services Staff *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 21, 2021.

Opioid Overdose Recognition & Naloxone Use

Join the conversation about the current status of the opioid epidemic in our community and what is being done. After watching this presentation, you will be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, properly administer naloxone, and know the necessary follow-up steps. Dependent upon naloxone availability, participants in Erie County, NY who watch this presentation will be able to receive a kit containing two doses of naloxone at no charge. Participants must be 16 years or older. Text the Narcan line at 716-225-5473. Instructor: Cheryll Moore, Medical Care Administrator, Erie County Department of Health *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 20, 2021.

Protecting Your Health Care Identity

Get the inside scoop on how to avoid the latest scams, how Medicare fraud affects you, and how the Senior Medicare Patrol can help. Instructor: Beth Nelson, Director, NYS Senior Medicare Patrol *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 19, 2021.

Presidents in Buffalo

How many Presidents have come to Buffalo either before, during or after their presidency? Who are the Presidents that have had a significant impact on Buffalo? Learn the answer to these and other questions in a presentation that details Buffalo's unique Presidential history. Instructor: Bren T. Price Sr., Retired Educator, Trustee, Buffalo Presidential Center, Master Docent, Explore Buffalo *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 18, 2021.