First things first: Thank you to the dozen readers who took time in the last couple of weeks to send thank-you notes and express appreciation for this column. We are most grateful for your encouraging words.

Before the pumpkin is smashed for the pie, before the turkey is stuffed and long before the silver is polished for Thanksgiving, it’s time for holiday fairs. Few say “Christmas” fairs in this PC world of ours. Every church and community organization plans a fair, it seems, and for those who are balancing survival against surprises under the tree, local fairs are a lifesaver. There truly is something for every one on your list. And the organizations supported by these events are all about community investment. So get some friends together, wear comfy shoes and dress for the weather – and go shopping. A side benefit of fair shopping is the opportunity to see friends, make new ones and enjoy the outing.

If you live where you have a walkway and steps to maneuver during the winter, take a minute now and check with your town’s public works department to see if there is free salted sand for residents – and then round up someone to get some for you to use on your walkways and stairs. Maybe it’s not available yet, but check it out. I live on the second floor and have outside stairs to climb. To avoid slippery steps, one of my brothers tacked some asphalt shingles onto the wooden treads. No ice forms and traction for better, safer walking.

Before you hunker down for the winter, take in one of the many bean suppers, harvest suppers and in some cases, free suppers offered at local churches and Granges. This is another great chance to avoid isolation – something that happens to many seniors.

And before I hunker down for the snow season, I must get a new computer so I can put the finishing touches on my second book about the history of my hometown. Right in the middle of formatting the pages so it could be published, my printing equipment died – and my computer’s operating system doesn’t “talk” to the new printer. The wonders of technology leave much to be desired. But I’ll get it straightened out – then I can hunker down!

If you’re available, a National Senior Games film documentary will premiere in Portland on Sunday, Nov. 11, at 1:30 p.m. at University of Southern Maine Abromson Center. Titled “Age of Champions,” it’s the inspiring story of a group of athletes a 100-year-old tennis champion, 86-year-old pole vaulter, team of basketball grandmothers, and a pair of swimming brothers all chasing gold at the National Senior Games. AARP Maine is sponsoring the USM screening and all tickets are free. Immediately following the local premiere, film director Christopher Rufo will participate in a question- and-answer session with the audience. Doors open at 1 p.m. For more information, go to www.ageofchampions.org.

Most of us are afraid of falling – for good reason. A nationally recognized program called “Matter of Balance” works wonders and it’s offered by Southern Maine Agency on Aging. They’re looking for volunteer coaches and are offering training instructions. Perhaps you, or someone you know would be interested. If you’re a strong communicator, dependable, and enthusiastic about working with older adults, consider the free Matter of Balance coach training. Coaches receive easy-to-use materials and ongoing support, too. Training takes place on Dec. 13 and 14, 8 a.m.- noon (must attend both days), at Southern Maine Agency on Aging: 136 US Route 1, Scarborough. Pre-registration is required by calling Liz Weaver at 396-6578 or lweaver@smaaa.org.

We honor our veterans on Sunday, Nov. 11. Take a moment and say thank you.

Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.

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