Senior Living News November 2025
The Canopy at Westridge
Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - November 2025 - Australia
Resident's Birthdays
Yvonne Caldwell-11/1
Lou Ellen Sharp-11/9
Marilyn Rines-11/14
Month's Celebrations
11/3-National Sandwich Day
11/4-National Candy Day
11/7-National Jersey Day
11/11-Veterans Day
11/19-National Carbonated Beverage Day
11/27-Thanksgiving Day
11/28-Black Friday
Events Spotlight
11/1-Yvonne Caldwell 90th Birthday
11/4-Veterans Museum Trip
11/6-Veterans Honor Wall Ceremony
11/7-11/21-Poker with Terry
11/8-Walk to End Alzheimer’s
11/12-Worship W/Craig
11/6-11/20-Pastor Jim Sings
11/28-Dj Doug Dance Party
Associate of the Month
Melinda Mccombs
Our November Associate is Melinda Mccombs, Ms. Melinda is a seasoned caregiver and has been doing this work for years! One of her greatest assets she brings is her positive attitude as she comes to work every day! Melinda thank you for everything you do in our community!
Australian Joy
Alexa, play Down Under, by Men at work.
Released in 1981, “Down Under” quickly became a defining song of Australian identity. With its catchy flute riff and witty lyrics, it celebrates the country’s laid-back spirit, humor, and pride. More than a global hit, it remains an unofficial anthem—an upbeat tribute to Australia’s culture, people, and sense of adventure.
Pumpkin Painting !
Fall Season Has commenced, and Fall Activities have begun, anything “Pumpkin” Screams fall! Residents enjoyed paint pumpkins and using them as fall decor in their apartments.
what a way to mix the season and an Activity!
Welcome to Australia
Around the World with Atlas
Australia, the world’s largest island and smallest continent, is a land of striking contrasts—from its vast deserts and tropical rainforests to its bustling coastal cities. Indigenous Australians have lived on the continent for over 60,000 years, developing rich spiritual traditions and deep connections to the land. Their art, music, and stories remain an essential part of the nation’s cultural identity today.
European settlement began in 1788 with the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain, marking the start of Australia’s colonial era. British influence shaped the nation’s language, institutions, and political systems, though this period also brought immense hardship to Indigenous communities. Over time, Australia evolved from a collection of colonies into a unified federation in 1901, forging its own democratic and multicultural identity.
Modern Australia is known for its relaxed lifestyle, love of the outdoors, and vibrant cultural mix. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru to its world-class art, music, and sport, the country reflects both its ancient heritage and modern dynamism—a place where tradition and innovation coexist under the southern sun.
New Community Pet !
Our New Community Dog named “Moonie” She provides so much for our residents!
Emotional Support and Comfort
Therapy dogs are trained to provide unconditional love and emotional support to individuals facing various challenges, such as illness, trauma, or loneliness. Their presence can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, offering comfort during difficult times. The bond formed between therapy dogs and humans is unique, as these animals have an innate ability to connect with people on an emotional level, helping to cheer them up and improve their mood.
Stress Reduction
Interacting with therapy dogs has been shown to lower stress levels and promote relaxation. Studies indicate that spending time with these dogs can decrease cortisol, a stress-related hormone, while increasing oxytocin, which is associated with feelings of happiness and bonding. This calming effect is particularly beneficial in high-stress environments such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes, where therapy dogs are often utilized.
Benefits Across Various Settings
Therapy dogs are commonly found in a variety of settings, including: Hospitals and Nursing Homes: Providing comfort to patients and residents, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety.
More Articles
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In Something Wicked This Way Comes, Ray Bradbury captured the quiet strangeness that arrives when autumn fades. The air cools, the light changes, and everything …
Top Questions Seniors Ask About Life, Love, and the Future
Share our good news:
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and togetherness. Rooted in early harvest feasts shared between settlers and Native Americans, it has grown into a cherished American tradition.
To give thanks for all blessings in life
Recipe of the Month
Australian Meat Pies
The following ingredients make a 12 muffin tin plus a small pie from the 20 pan:
For the pie batter:
300g wheat flour, here 1050 plus a little more for working
100ml water
100ml milk
100g butter
1 pinch of salt
Butter for the trays
For the lid:
1/2 roll of ready-made puff pastry
1 egg
For the filling:
1 red onion
1 tbsp oil
500g minced beef
1 cup frozen peas
100g bacon cubes
200ml water
2 bouillon cubes plus 1 pinch of sugar (instead of Vegemite)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
3 heaped teaspoons flour
Salt and pepper
Directions:
Prepare the dough by mixing flour, salt, and warm milk-water-butter until smooth; let rest 30 minutes.
For the filling, sauté onion in oil, then add beef and bacon until browned. Stir in tomato paste, peas, bouillon, water, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of sugar. Simmer, then thicken with flour. Season to taste.
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease muffin tin and small pie dish, line with dough, and fill with meat mixture. Top with puff pastry, seal edges, and brush with beaten egg.
Bake 20–25 minutes (muffins) or 30–35 minutes (pie) until golden brown.
Resident of the Month
Francy Lamendiola
Francy Lamendiola 82 years old enjoys to Crotchet, Catching some sun, good music and dancing, And a scenic drive anywhere!
Francy Lightens up our community with her bright smile and witty personality!
If Francy had to give one piece of advice it would be to love one another at all times and be kind, no matter the circumstances someone else is going through way worse.
We thank you Francy for Choosing Our Community as your forever home!
Collaborators:
Jahqui Gibbs
