Forever Young March 2022

MARCH 2022 |

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EDITOR’S NOTE OUR 34TH YEAR 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12 Amherst, NY 14228 Phone 716.783.9119 Fax 716.783.9983 www.foreveryoungwny.com

PUBLISHER Barbara E. Macks

Editor-in-Chief............................................................................Elizabeth Licata elicata@foreveryoungwny.com

Editor..................................................................................... Sabrina Kahwaty skahwaty@foreveryoungwny.com

Creative Director..................................................................... Jean-Pierre Thimot Lead Designer............................................................................ Nicholas Vitello Senior Graphic Designers.............................................. Josh Flanigan, Kim Miers, Adam Van Schoonhoven Graphic Designer..................................................................Taramarie Mitravich

Director of Advertising............................................................. Barbara E. Macks bmacks@foreveryoungwny.com

Director of Audience Development & Sales Coordinator.................... Robin Lenhard Senior Account Executives..................................... Mary Beth Holly, Keren Green, Caroline Kunze, Robin Lenhard, Rachel Wasserman National Ad Director...................................................................... Terri Downey

Administrative & Finance Director..............................................Michele Ferguson

BUFFALO SPREE PUBLISHING, INC.

President & CEO....................................................................... Sharon C. Levite Publisher/Chief Revenue Officer............................................... Barbara E. Macks Associate Publisher/Editor-In-Chief............................................... Elizabeth Licata Vice President/Administrative & Finance.....................................Michele Ferguson Corporate Counsel....................................................... Timothy M. O’Mara, Esq. Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2022 by Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228 and is open Mon.–Fri. 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. The entire contents of Forever Young are copyrighted 2022 by Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. and may not be reproduced in any manner, either whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved. Display advertising information and rates may be obtained by calling (716) 783-9119 ext 2250.

For home delivery by mail, send check or money order for $12.00 payable to Forever Young. Standard mail postage paid at Amherst, NY 14228. POSTMASTER send change of address to Forever Young, 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228. Manuscripts and free calendar listings should be sent to the editor (skahwaty@foreveryoungwny.com) at 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228. Material cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self addressed, stamped envelope of adequate size and strength. The publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertising message or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the paper.

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Membership in NAMPA includes verification of member’s print & circulation totals.

Go green As the leaves turn green, why not join them? Spring is the perfect time to think about ways we can help the environment.

Looking for inspiration? In this month’s issue, we offer actionable ways to go green (that might help your health, too!) from replacing your cleaning supplies, to shopping local and reusable, to getting an education by listening to greenthemed podcasts.

Many (myself included) become overwhelmed by the idea of “saving the environment.” It’s important to remember that being environmentally conscious is a group effort, and it doesn’t have to be an overnight lifestyle overhaul.

Make one change at a time. Any step you take to help the environment is a good one and small steps add up.

Why not make a pledge? Choose one thing to focus on per month, or even year. Some of my past pledges have included using only reusable water bottles, taking items home to recycle them when there is no public recycling, and signing up for electronic mail whenever Never miss a Forever Young! Subscribe for $12/year!

Call 716-972-2238 or fill out and mail in the subscription form on page 20.

the option is available. This year, I pledge to continue to educate myself on more ways to go green.

Sustainablebabysteps.com is a great place to start.

Also in this issue: planting at the right place and right time, find a genealogy community on Facebook, and preventing and curing constipation. Plus, live theater marches on, and find even more exciting events in our Noteworthy section.

Wishing you a happy spring,

Sabrina Kahwaty Editor

MARCH 2022

Photo courtesy of Therese Forton-Barnes

Plan your planting

5

Go green with Therese Forton-Barnes

14

Connect with fellow genealogists

17

On the cover: Dr. Christian Milioto, founder of WNY Pain Relief and Integrative Wellness Center Photo by Dan Cappellazzo

Food

Features: Green Living

4

12

Clean green................................................... Judith A. Rucki

Home & Garden

14

Therese Forton-Barnes.............................Michael J. Billoni

5

16

Little Salmon............................................... Matthew Biddle

St. Joseph’s Day pasta...........Christa Glennie/Michael Franco

Right plant, wrong place?.......................... Carol Ann Harlos

Theater

Genealogy

6

17

Previews: My Left Breast and Stew .................. Donna Hoke

Facebook groups for research ........ Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits

Cover

Being Well

10

18

A new era of rehabilitation.........................WNY Pain Relief

Constipation: reasons and remedies............Catherine Stack

Ever y Issue: Crossword 2 | Resources 3 | Bingo Buzz 8 | Classifieds 20 | Noteworthy 21

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March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 1

CROSSWORD 19. Halloween option

41. Stable worker

22. Not their

44. Relieves

23. 1/100th of a rupee 24. Wrinkle-prone natural fabric 25. Warning 26. ____-do-well

46. On/off type of switch 48. *____ Hurricanes 49. Creepy

27. Part of a stair

50. Work very hard

28. Old World lizard

51. Use a whetstone

29. *Fast-break ____

52. Worry without necessity

32. Skier’s aid 33. Part of H.M.S. 36. *Reward after missed shot 38. *Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy, e.g.

40. Away’s partner

53. Deed hearing 54. A in A&E Network 55. *The Phoenix Suns did it in the 2021 NBA Finals 56. *Professional basketball league

THEME: BASKETBALL ACROSS 1. Repeating word on South Pacific map 5. Bro’s sibling 8. Dashboard abbr.

11. Fusses 12. *Basketball slam 13. Go “Boo!” 15. Boisterous play 16. Upper hand 17. Part of mortise joint 18. *Unopposed attempt to score (2 words) 20. “The Famous Five” children’s writer Blyton

47. Argo propeller 48. Subway in Paris 50. Conclusion starter 52. *Made basket (2 words) 56. Not a soul 57. Like animal near extinction 58. Greek sandwich 59. Bandages 60. Arabian bigwig 61. Answer to “Shall we?”

62. Bar offering 63. *It sends a basketball game to overtime

21. *Basketball player Bojan Bogdanovic or Drazen Petrovic

64. Highland tongue

22. “Mares eat ____” or “does eat ____,” sing.

DOWN

23. One who covers in silver, e.g.

26. Figure 30. Be ill 31. Part of “panther” 34. Capital of Latvia 35. Like helium 37. Quilting party 38. Analyze 39. Dehydrated 40. Litter of piglets 42. Down Under bird 43. a.k.a. aardvark 45. Provincial governor in ancient Persia 2

1. Vomit 2. Sensory input 3. It wasn’t built in a day 4. Characteristic to consider 5. Traditional scarf/headdress 6. Brick of precious metal 7. Place at an angle 8. Indian princess 9. Circus trainer’s poker 10. ‘80s band “____ At Work” 12. Remove antlers 13. Titanic propeller 14. *Shaquille O’Neal and Wilt Chamberlain, e.g.

www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

The solution for this month’s puzzle can be found on page 20.

FOREVER YOUNG *MARCH RESOURCES *PLEASE CONTACT EVENT/PROGRAM ORGANIZERS TO CONFIRM INFORMATION PROVIDED Do you have an event or resource to list? Email it to skahwaty@buffalospree.com

Online IMAGINE BUFFALO SPEAKER SERIES Presented by the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library in conjunction with C-SAAHN and ImagineLifelongLearning.com via Zoom every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m.

Each week features a local speaker and Q&A. Free. Visit website for Zoom link: buffalolib.libcal.org

Hamburg ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP for males; call 626-0600 or visit alz.org/wnyc for info.

Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m.

FREE. Visit www.facebook.com/ Buffalo-Laughers for information.

West Seneca AMANA GARDEN CLUB OF WEST SENECA, is welcoming new members interested in gardening, floral arrangement, and more. For mor information, contact Marie: 884-8543

Gowanda HEALTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE Activities open to the public age 50+, (no residency requirements), Concord Senior Center, 1 School Street, Gowanda; for schedule, visit communityalliance.org; 532-1010 Niagara Falls SENIOR C O M PA N I O N / F O S T E R GRANDPARENT PROGRAM Looking for seniors who enjoy working with their peers or children.

Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 2858224 Jennifer Britton (ext. 217) for Senior Companions and Kelly Carr (ext. 228) for Foster Grandparents Williamsville MEDICARE EDUCATION PROGRAM offers complimentary services through the WNY Medicare Resource Center.

Appointments encouraged, 833-0252 Buffalo HEADWAY SUPPORT GROUPS For individuals who have sustained brain injuries, their families, and caregivers; exchange information and resources, and find mutual support and encouragement.

Info: 408-3100 or headwayofwny.org Southtowns NEW HORIZONS MUSIC Calling all musicians 50+ interested in music. For info, email Janet Stout at 354janet@gmail.com and visit newhorizonsmusic.org.

Depew BREAST CANCER NETWORK OF WNY Call 7060060 or visit bcnwny.org for more information.

SOCIAL CLUB or call 550-1232 TOPS CLUBS Take Off Pounds Sensibly Clubs offer tools, programs, support, and fellowship for healthy living and weight management.

Akron For info, call Diane 542-4980 Cheektowaga For info, call Karen 247-2334

Cheektowaga For information, call MaryAnn 895-4414 Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 385-7558 Farnham For info, call 934-9619 Lancaster For info, call Eva 4070539 Tonawanda For info, call 693-5161

Buffalo PARKINSON’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP (Caregivers only) 4th Tuesday of Each Month, 3 PM. Weinberg Campus 2650 North Forest, Amherst (off in July & August) Buffalo PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP United Way – Room 219, 742 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo. Contact: Stephanie Mruzek. Email: eastamherstDSM@ solsticeseniorliving.com. Please visit www.parkinson.org for a full listing of Parkinson’s support groups in WNY. Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 6323700 or mcguiregroup.com Buffalo LGBTQ MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVERS PROGRAM: The Pride Center of WNY offers support and education for people providing care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. For information: 8527743 or pridecenterwny.org NIAGARA FALLS SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB: An active 50+ crowd. Meet & Greets second Friday of the month at Tim Hortons (8500 Niagara Falls Boulevard); dances third Friday of the month at Buff Social Club (2565 Young St.). For more info: see Facebook: SINGLES

March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 3

FOOD

Recipe of the month Pasta with roasted cauliflower, olives, and garlic confit

BY CHRISTA GLENNIE; RECIPE BY MICHAEL FRANCO

Simmer on very low heat in a small saucepan for one hour. Do not brown.

For the toasted breadcrumbs: ½ cup plain breadcrumbs Gently toast in a dry sauté pan until nicely browned, stirring often. Set aside.

For the roasted cauliflower: 1 head cauliflower cut in small florets (about 8 cups) 1/3 cup olive oil ½ tsp red pepper flakes 1 tsp salt ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/3 cup large green olives sliced in to 8 slices Toss all ingredients (except the olives) on a sheet pan and roast in a preheated 425-degree oven for about thirty minutes, stirring every ten minutes. Add olives, stir, and roast for ten minutes longer.

For the pasta: 1 pound of any pasta of your choice

T

he month of March holds an assortment of important celebrations for a city as rooted in ethnic and religious tradition as Buffalo, and each of these important dates is accompanied by significant dishes and flavors. In the crux of the Lenten season, the steel town fish fry seemingly takes over our region’s casual restaurants. St. Patrick’s Day celebrations often inspire a massive corned beef outbreak. March 19 is, for many people of Italian descent, St. Joseph’s Day, a Sicilian celebration which is accompanied by a very specific menu.

Michael Franco celebrates St. Joseph’s Day each year, sometimes very traditionally and other times with a little culinary flair. He was kind

enough to share with us this pasta dish featuring many of the ingredients that are found on what is called the St. Joseph’s Day “table.”

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“I love pasta,” Franco blogs on his website, Live to Eat. “It’s a comforting, versatile food staple that is uncomplicated and quick to cook. It’s the perfect canvas that is stable enough to stand up to layers of flavors without losing its integrity and it can hold its own when paired with sauces ranging from a light garden-fresh tomato sauce to a luscious rich cream sauce.”

For the garlic confit: ½ cup olive oil 6-8 garlic cloves thinly sliced ½ tsp red pepper flakes ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper ¼ tsp salt a few gratings of nutmeg

Boil pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Do not overcook.

For the garnish: zest of 1 lemon ½ cup fennel leaves grated Romano cheese toasted breadcrumbs olive oil for drizzling freshly ground black pepper To plate: Drain pasta and gently toss with cooked cauliflower and garlic confit. Spoon into warm pasta bowls and sprinkle with lemon zest, fennel leaves, Romano cheese, toasted breadcrumbs, a drizzle of your best olive oil and freshly ground black pepper to taste. FY *Originally published March 2011

HOME & GARDEN

Right plant, wrong place?

CAROL ANN HARLOS

THE SOUND OF THE CITY

R

ecently, my husband needed a COVID test prior to a medical procedure. We drove to what used to be Sears in the Galleria Mall and sat in the line of cars for several minutes. I looked up to see a poor, sad tree trying to grow in a narrow strip between the concrete and the side of the building. It had grown sideways, and some of its roots were exposed. But it lived!

I have also seen houses with large help them grow as they can’t take up plants inexplicably die. Sometimes, I evergreen trees planted so close to necessary minerals. One must acidify don’t like the effect I have created, so the windows that the trees now lean the soil with a product such as Espoma, I change it. backward for light. No one from the made for just this purpose. One can Gardens are dynamic; they change outside could see into the house. Was also add elemental sulfur. Or…one over time, as do gardeners. Even this intentional? I doubt it. Should we can plant something else. with careful planning and the best blame the gardener? intentions, there will be surprises.

What’s a gardener to do?

People frequently ask me about their Have you ever done a planting rhododendrons that suddenly have Try to gain knowledge before you intending to put taller plants toward yellow leaves. I ask several questions: plant. It helps to make a map of your the back and shorter plants in the How long ago were they planted? property or a list of different areas on front, only to find out years later that What is the soil pH? Is the drainage your property. Are there areas where the plant labels were inaccurate? This good? (Usually, drainage is not the nothing grows? Where moss grows? is not your fault. problem.) Then I ask if they planted That are rocky? Shady? Sloped? What Next month, I will share some them about three years ago. Often the do you know about the soil? Is it sweet? gardening ventures with you. Not response is, “How did you know?”

Acid? Sandy? Clay? Oh my goodness, my own, but those of several readers This leads to a discussion about soil this sounds intimidating! who have shared them with me. In pH. People usually plant “rhodies” Now, my dear reader, I am going to the meantime, enjoy your amaryllis, at the proper depth; these plants do confess something. I have never made cyclamen, rosemary, and forced bulbs. well until the roots venture into the a garden plan in my life. This does I love hearing from you: caharlos@ surrounding soil. How long does this not mean that I plant haphazardly. I verizon.net FY take? You guessed it—approximately try to learn about what I plant, but three years! Rhododendrons need a soil I regard gardening as a never-ending Carol Ann Harlos is an awardpH of about 4.5 to 5.5 for the roots to adventure. I plant. I revise. I change winning retired math and science be able to access soil minerals. That’s my mind. If someone wants to share teacher, Master Gardener, beekeeper, quite acidic. an offshoot I take it, look things over, writer, and speaker. She tends extensive To give you some perspective: if you and tuck it in. Sometimes, things gardens, including herbs, and loves live in the Town of Amherst, the soil don’t turn out as planned. Sometimes, learning from others and sharing her pH is around 8.2, making it what’s there are incredible surprises, like the knowledge. known as “sweet soil.” Fertilizing hydrangea that grew from a broken rhododendrons in sweet soil will not piece of a friend’s plant. Occasionally,

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March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 5

ARTS

Ujima’s making Stew and Susan Miller talks My Left Breast

BY DONNA HOKE

Stew Ujima Company

By Zora Howard Director: Curtis Lovell Cast: Karen Saxon, Jacqueline Cherry, Ember Tate, Millie Rodriguez-Spencer “Stew is a show about three generations of African American women making this stew for church and set in Mount Vernon, New York, which is where my mother was born and raised,” says director Curtis Lovell, daughter of Ujima’s founder, the late Lorna Hill. “There’s something warm and infectious about the way they conversate; it’s so quick, moving fast, true African-American-womenin-kitchen. We’re moving real fast, we’re throwing jabs, we’re trying get everything that needs to happen in the day done wrapped around making this stew so mom can feel proud of herself as she goes to church. My grandmother was incredibly religious and there’s a level of history for my mom in particular, which is why I think Sarah Norat, the interim artistic director, chose the story, for that comfort and familiarity.”

Indeed, Lovell says the show

reminds her a lot of her mother and grandmother, not so much in what the words are but in how they are said. “It’s how they stay on top of each other,” Lovell explains. “There’s no room for privacy, no room for an inner thought without someone looking at them and immediately knowing. There’s so much oneness happening even though all the characters are so incredibly individual.

Everybody’s got this level of privacy that gets broken because of how close you are with these women especially in the house that you were raised in. Because everyone in the cast is a woman of color and has a real understanding of what it means to be in your grandmother or your mama’s kitchen that we’ll really be able to just jump into and lose ourselves in the world of the play. I’m pumped about the cast dynamics; it’s gonna be beautiful.”

Directing is fairly new for the 2020 Artie Award-winning (Best Actress in a Musical, Cookin’ at the Cookery), but she got a taste of it with Ujima’s virtual Art That Heals, a collection of Lorna Hill’s poetry set to music and dance. “But I’ve been directing all my life,” Lovell says. “I watched my mother, and we would come home and talk about the

Lara Haberberger stars in My Left Breast Photo courtesy of Brazen-Faced Varlets

show, and I would say what I thought and give suggestions. Sometimes she let me give suggestions while she was directing, so I’ve always been like a little assistant director. It’s opportune and comfortable but challenging and I feel ready for the task for sure. And I really am honored to be doing what my mother had set out so fervently for

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

me to be able to do with my life.”

Through March 27; ujimacoinc.org, (716) 322-5178 My Left Breast Brazen-Faced Varlets

By Susan Miller Director: Alley Griffin Cast: Lara Haberberger It was at least ten years since her breast cancer surgery that playwright Susan Miller took to the stage to semiautobiographically talk about in a one-woman play, My Left Breast.

When the play begins, she comes out dancing, to let you know it’s all right; we can laugh at this play.

“The year it happened my son was eight. He looked at my chest, the day I told him. We had these matching Pep Boys tee shirts. You know—Manny, Mo, and Jack. He looked at my chest and said, “Which one was it? Manny or Jack?”

“Jack,” I tell him.

ARTS “What did they do with it?”

“I don’t know.”

“Well I’m going to get it back for you!”

Yes, you can laugh. “You can also cry, but do both,” says Miller. “It’s not only permissible; it’s an invitation.”

“Here’s why I was able to go to that place that made me vulnerable but I didn’t feel that way,” shares Miller. “I created a character, Susan, with my name, which gave me the freedom to play with time and develop a structure that has a rhythm to and is all grounded and anchored in my life and from life but it’s not a transcription, except for that little chat with my son. That was the context that opened it up the theatrical space for me.”

The separation of Susan the author and Susan the character was happening even as Miller wrote the play—“there’s one section where I use the third person”—and became increasingly aware that the play was not about breast cancer. “There was something larger and more encompassing and everybody experiences loss or illness in their own way. All those things helped me feel like I was creating a character and experience. It was a play.”

Now, twenty-five-plus years past that conversation with her son, My Left Breast is a play in every sense of the word, meaning it’s published and Susan (mostly) no longer plays Susan (she actually had to audition to play herself at the Humana Festival in 1994). When Buffalo audiences see My Left Breast this month, Susan will be played by Brazen-Faced Varlets Artistic Director Lara Haberberger.

“I’ve only seen two other people do it,” Miller admits. “The first time, I was nervous, and it was a little strange at first, but they kept to the spirt of the play and I thought, ‘Maybe it will be okay.’ The second time was in Paris, in French, which added yet another layer of remove, but Millers says, “I could feel the audience responding in the same ways in the same places, so that was really affirming that it was universal.”

Opens March 18; varlets.org FY Playwright Donna Hoke writes about theater for Buffalo Spree and Forever Young.

OPENING

March Theater Listings

March 1 My Fair Lady Boasting classics like “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor determined to make her a “proper lady.” Through March 6; sheas.org, 716-847-1410 March 3 Tribes Billy is the only Deaf member of a loving yet dysfunctional family who raised him as part of the hearing world. When Billy meets Sylvia, a young woman on the brink of deafness, he starts to learn what it means to be heard. Through March 27; roadlesstraveledproductions.org, 716-629-3069 The Children Two retired nuclear scientists reside in an isolated cottage by the sea as the world around them crumbles. They plan to live forever on yogurt and yoga, until an old friend arrives with a frightening request. Through March 26; newphoenixtheatre.org, 716-8531334 in collaboration with Red Thread Theatre

Working Works are intertwined narrative Based on Studs Terkel’s best-selling taking place at neighborhood book of interviews with American dive Martin’s Bar & Grille. workers, Working explores what makes artofwny.org, 716-697-0837 work meaningful, whether in an office, restaurant, home, or in retirement.

March 11 oconnellandcompany.com, Constellations A spellbinding romantic journey 716-848-0800 begins with a simple encounter between a man and a woman. What March 27 happens next defies the boundaries Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird All rise for Academy Awardof the world we think we know, delves into infinite possibilities, and winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of raises questions about the difference Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning between choice and destiny. Through masterwork. The New York Times March 26; secondgenerationtheatre.com, Critic’s Pick To Kill a Mockingbird is “the most successful American play 716-508-SGT0 in Broadway history” (60 Minutes). sheas.org, 716-847-1410 Stew In this 2021 Pulitzer Prize Finalist, Mama is up early to prepare an March 31 important meal and, even with Berserker her family on hand to help, time is In this Mazumdar-winning new running short. Tensions simmer with comedy, an idealistic teacher comes three generations of Tucker women face-to-face with a bear in the wilderness under one roof, and things come to and finds himself spiraling into a mida boil as the violence at the periphery life crisis. alleyway.com, 716-852-2600 of their lives intrudes on the sanctity of Mama’s kitchen. Through March 27; ujimacoinc.org, (716) 322-5178 CLOSING

March 18 My Left Breast “I am a one-breasted, menopausal, Jewish, bisexual lesbian mom, and I’m coming soon to a theatre near you!” A woman’s humorous March 4 and moving encounters with Pride & Prejudice relationships, parenthood, cancer, This isn’t your grandmother’s and her ever-changing self are charted Austen! Bold, surprising, boisterous, in this solo piece. varlets.org and timely, this P&P for a new era explores the absurdities and March 25 thrills of finding your perfect (or Stage Kiss imperfect) match. Through March 27; Two actors and ex-lovers find kavinokytheatre.com, 716-829-7668 themselves starring opposite each other in an off-off-Broadway 1930s March 10 melodrama. It doesn’t take long for Fall From the Grace of God the lines between life and art to blur ART/WNY continues its season in this farcical comedy. dedicated to 716 playwrights by irishclassicaltheatre.com, 716-853-4282 showcasing ten writers’ short plays inspired by the music of the Pogues.

March 19 Buffalo Quickies Back for the thirty-first year, another set of brand-new short plays comes to Alleyway! “Everyone wants to know if we’re going to replicate this year’s [storefront] Quickies,” says Alleyway Artistic Director Chris J Handley. “The answer is, ‘well where’s the challenge in that?’” alleyway.com, 716-852-2600 March 27 American Rhapsody A renewed version from its 2009 MusicalFare world premiere, American Rhapsody features the music of Gershwin, Berlin, Joplin, Handy, Blake, and others while looking at the social, racial, and musical synthesis that helped to create Rhapsody in Blue. musicalfare.com, 716-839-8540

March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 7

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar Bingo is back!

Please call event organizers to confirm information provided.

Listings are alphabetical by day.

MONDAY AMERICAN LEGION MCKEEVER POST 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 822-6400 AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst St., Buffalo 7 p.m.......................................... 875-9276 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m.......................................... 681-7251 HAMBURG–KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg 7:30 p.m.................649-9830/649-4340

MATTHEW GLAB POST 1965 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7 p.m......................................... 825-3733 ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:15 p.m..................................... 836-0011

TUESDAY AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13 25 Review Pl., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 874-0559 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 876-1038 ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO. 4932 Clark St., Hamburg 7:30 p.m..................................... 649-9821

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m.......................................... 681-7251 HARTLAND VFC 8945 Ridge Rd., Hartland 7:30 p.m.

2 p.m. (second Tuesday) OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster 7 p.m.......................................... 683-6522 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m..................................... 873-6716 ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m..................................... 892-0425

WEDNESDAY AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 822-6400 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C — SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m.......................................... 681-7251 ST. ALOYSIUS RCC 156 Franklin, Springville 7:30 p.m..................................... 592-2701 ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:15 p.m..................................... 836-0011

THURSDAY BLESSED TRINITY 317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo 8 p.m.......................................... 833-0301 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m...........................................681-7251 FOURTEEN HOLY HELPERS 1345 Indian Church Rd., West Seneca 7:00 p.m......................................674-2374 K OF C MADONNA COUNCIL NO. 2535 755 Erie Ave., North Tonawanda 7:30 p.m..................................... 693-5470

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ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m..................................... 873-6716 ST. JAMES DEPEW 500 Terrace Blvd., Depew 7:30 p.m..................................... 683-2746 VFW COL. WEBER POST 989 2909 South Park Ave., Lackawana 7:30 p.m..................................... 823-9605

FRIDAY AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................................... 822-6400 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 876-1038 DALE ASSOCIATION CENT. 33 Ontario St., Lockport 7 p.m (first two Fridays).............. 433-1886 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 p.m............................ 1-800-421-2464 ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA 157 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m..................................... 833-1715 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m..................................... 873-6716 ST. PHILIP THE APOSTLE 950 Lossen Rd., Cheektowaga 7:00 p.m..................................... 668-8370

SATURDAY BUFFALO GAY BINGO/ AIDS PLUS FUND OF WNY Amvets Medallion Post 13, 13 Review Pl., Buffalo 7 p.m (2nd Sat.).......................... 822-0818 CARDINAL O'HARA HIGH SCHOOL 39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda 7:30 p.m..........................695-2600 x326 OUR LADY OF BISTRICA 1619 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7:15 p.m..................................... 822-0818

Bingo Calendar SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m...................... 1-800-421-2464 ST. AMELIA’S RCC 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m.......................................... 836-0011 ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m..................................... 892-0425 ST. JOHN XXIII 1 Arcade St., W. Seneca 7 p.m.......................................... 823-1090

SUNDAY CARDINAL O'HARA HIGH SCHOOL 39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m...............................695-2600 x326 DELEVAN VFC N. Main St., Delevan 7 p.m.......................................... 492-1910 LOCKPORT ELKS LODGE 41 6791 N. Canal Rd., Lockport 7 p.m (first and third Sundays)... 434-2798 OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster 2 p.m.......................................... 683-6522

(continued)

SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m................................... 549-4389 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7 p.m.......................................... 873-6716

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COVER

A new era of rehabilitation Eliminate chronic back, joint, and nerve pain safely, naturally, and effectively COURTESY OF WNY PAIN RELIEF AND INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS CENTER

A

s we age, we may begin to experience increased aches and pains due to past injuries or development of spine or joint degeneration. Over time, this pain may lead to drastic changes in our ability to perform simple tasks like walking, lifting, or bending. We find ourselves dreading trips to the grocery store. Walking up and down stairs becomes exhausting as legs and feet grow tired, heavy, or weak. Symptoms may affect sleep, completion of household activities, and the ability to care for ourselves or loved ones.

We seek doctors’ help with managing or eliminating this pain.

For some, this leads to diagnostic tests, X-rays, MRIs, or blood work.

For others, physical, chiropractic, or massage therapies. In severe cases,

pain medications, injections, or surgery. But what happens when we find we are still in pain? We ask ourselves: why did all these years of therapy, injections, and surgery not work? Do I have to live the rest of

Dr. Christian Milioto, founder of WNY Pain Relief and Integrative Wellness Center Photos by Dan Cappellazzo

my life this way? The answer is NO! Imagine a pain free life. A life full of reduced or eliminated medications, injections, or surgeries. A life utilizing safe, effective, and pain free therapies specifically designed to treat your needs. The life you deserve.

For patients suffering peripheral neuropathy (spinal, joint, and nerverelated pain), there comes a point where basic avenues of care provide only temporary relief and pain medication merely suppresses the brain’s interpretation of pain, leaving patients the same or slightly reduced pain and not feeling like themselves.

Potential surgery may be dangerous and should be a last resort. At this point, advanced care is needed for rehabilitation. Rehabilitation, 10

www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “a set of interventions designed to optimize functioning and reduce disability in individuals with health conditions in interaction with their environment.”

WNY Pain Relief and Integrative Wellness Center has provided true rehabilitation for thousands of individuals suffering chronic pain, who had exhausted all avenues of care and given up on enjoying daily life without constant pain and discomfort. WNY Pain Relief’s offices, therapies, and approach, founded and developed by Dr. Christian Milioto, are unlike any others in the region.

“When I founded my practice, I dedicated my life to being a doctor

COVER that would give everything I have in terms of knowledge, treatment, and understanding patients’ pain and conditions,” Dr. Milioto says.

“When I developed my treatment, it was to approach chronic pain by addressing each element of someone’s inflammation and pain, to help heal, not to simply manage pain.”

WNY Pain Relief has helped patients with advanced spinal conditions regain strength and balance, and improve their ability to walk, stand, and care for themselves, and eliminated debilitating nerve pain in diabetic, idiopathic, spinal, chemo/radiation-induced, or circulation/medication-induced forms. “We have had the honor of giving people their lives back who have felt pain from sciatica, stenosis, disc degeneration, bulges, herniations and arthritis,” Dr. Milioto shares.

“We have eliminated numbness, burning, tingling, and pins and needles with those experiencing nerve pain, neuropathy, and circulatory disorders, and helped restore balance and strength from tired, restless weak legs.”

At WNY Pain Relief, expect great care, individual attention, and relief. Learn how you can eliminate medication, surgery and endless cycles of care. “When someone calls for a consult, they sometimes don’t know what to expect as we offer unique advanced therapies and technologies,” Dr. Milioto explains.

“When I sit down with a patient, they have my undivided attention; I will spend an hour or longer understanding their history, pain and going over X-Rays or MRIs. I explain and educate them on why they feel what they do and how they can heal from their pain. We create a treatment plan. I take great pride in being an advocate for my patients and their needs and goals. A piece of me goes to each of my patients; that is the only way I can truly feel I did my job.”

WNY Pain Relief offers educational seminars on pain, inflammation, neuropathy, joint pain, and back pain. Prospective patients can view video testimonials on the website,

Dr. Milioto approaches chronic pain by addressing each element of a patient's inflammation.

as well as read Google reviews from patients. Here is an example: “I have been seen at WNY Pain Relief and Integrative Wellness for a year. I have peripheral neuropathy (no feeling and tremendous amount of pain) in both feet. After seeing numerous doctors over the years with no help, I saw the Wellness Center advertised on television and decided to inquire. Dr. Milioto properly diagnosed my major issue to be a lower back injury. I had no back pain, so I questioned his diagnosis. After six to eight weeks on the decompression table, my pain level has been cut in half. A huge thank you to all at the Wellness Center.” –Daniel WNY Pain Relief will provide the attention and care you deserve. If you are ready to take the next step in pain relief and healing, call 650-PAIN (7246). Visit buffalopainrelief.com to take the patient questionnaire and learn more. FY

March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 11

FEATURE

Clean green

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

include vinegar, tea tree oil, Castile soap, and baking soda (especially popular because it deodorizes, whitens, brightens, cleans, and gently scrubs). If you mix your own cleaning products, use spray bottles that won’t be confused with food containers. Label them so you know what’s in each bottle.

WebMD suggests this formula for a natural, all-purpose cleaner: • ¾ cup hydrogen peroxide • ½ cup distilled white vinegar • 1 teaspoon unscented liquid Castile soap • 10 drops tea tree oil • 20 drops lavender essential oil • 2 cups water Good Housekeeping also offers these recipes for homemade cleaners:

H

aving grown up in a family where cleaning was akin to an Olympic Sport, I was determined my first apartment would sparkle. One day, I decided to clean the bathroom with a mixture of ammonia and bleach. Toxic fumes had me flinging open windows and running for cover; I unwittingly created a version of mustard gas.

Several decades later, I have a better considered eco-friendly, such as grasp on environmentally friendly Seventh Generation, Clothes Doctor, household cleaning products. There and Spruce. are numerous plant-based products Some good natural cleaning products

• Mix one-part distilled vinegar with three-parts water to create a simple cleaning spray. Dilute the mixture according to your needs or trade white vinegar for apple cider vinegar. Lemon juice can be added to disinfect surfaces. *Note: The acid in vinegar can etch natural stone, so it is not recommended for granite and marble countertops, stone floor tiles, egg stains or spills, irons, hardwood floors, or stubborn stains.

• For hard water stains, cleaning trash cans, and wiping away smudges, combine one-part white vinegar, one-part water, lemon rind, and rosemary sprigs. Pour into a spray bottle, shake, and allow the mixture to infuse for a week.

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• Four tablespoons of baking soda mixed with one-quart warm water will clean kitchen counters, appliances, and the inside of the refrigerator. Pouring baking soda straight from the box into a drain or garbage disposal removes odors.

Baking soda can also be used in litter boxes, garbage cans, and diaper pails to absorb odor. A water/baking soda paste remove spots from stainless steel.

According to WebMD, vinegar is a natural disinfectant good for removing gummy buildup, rust, and hard water stains. It can also remove buildup from your coffee pot.

Combining ¼ cup white vinegar and one tablespoon cornstarch with four cups warm water makes for a nonstreak window cleaner. Dissolve the cornstarch before spraying. To prevent streaking, wipe clean with a microfiber cloth and then a dry cloth. To sanitize a surface, combine one cup vinegar, one cup club soda, and two drops tea tree oil. Spray the mixture onto a surface and wipe clean. This works as a disinfectant only when freshly made.

Garbage disposal smells can be eliminated by running ice along with a squeezed orange, lemon, or lime.

Ice sharpens the blade while citrus peels create a fresh scent. Microwave getting funky? Mix six tablespoons baking soda or ½ cup lemon juice with one cup water in a microwavesafe glass container. Microwave until the mixture boils, then let it sit inside (door closed) until cool. Grime will loosen and wiping down the inside of the microwave will be easy.

After a shower, mix 1/3 cup rubbing alcohol with one cup water. Shake, spray, and prevent mold, no rinsing necessary.

Going green involves making lifestyle choices that are good for both our health and the environment.

According to the World Health Organization, nearly twenty-five percent of diseases are caused by things in the environment that we can change. Harmful cleaning products emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that linger in the home. Green products are made without chemicals

FEATURE

that affect air quality, and won’t irritate lungs, eyes, or skin.

Another bonus is the green we can save. The average American family spends between forty and fifty dollars per month on cleaning supplies. It’s estimated that most DIY cleaners cost less than a dollar to make. When compared to store-bought products that cost anywhere from five to fifteen dollars per bottle, doesn’t it seem worth a try?

And if you’ve got some extra cash from making your own products, further the green experience by splurging on some potted plants, like the parlor palm, which removes VOCs from the air.

That’s really going green! FY Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer.

March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 13

FEATURE

Going green with Therese Forton-Barnes The founder of Green Living Gurus shares her story

BY MICHAEL J. BILLONI

I

n the 1960s and ’70s, Buffalo native Therese “Tee” Forton-Barnes was raised on an all-organic food lifestyle. Back then, there was not much available; organic wasn’t the trend it is today.

But Forton-Barnes’ mother, an original member of the Lexington Food Co-Op, taught her early on the importance of a healthy lifestyle and avoiding toxic chemicals as a way of life.

Young Tee thought everyone ate the way her family did but soon realized this wasn’t the case.

Forton-Barnes attended Ithaca College and earned a degree in Business with a Health minor. She dreamed of opening a health food supermarket but, when Whole Foods beat her to the punch, she opted for event planning instead. Her company, Events to a Tee! and Associates (events2atee.com), has planned and executed more than 700 events in the Buffalo area in the past thirty years.

Green Living Gurus founder Therese Forton-Barnes Photos courtesy of Therese Forton-Barnes

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

“I always try to plan an event by making certain all five senses are used by each attendee,” Forton-Barnes explains. “Each event I produce is a puzzle. There are many pieces and I must find ways for each one to fit. My sixth sense is organizing.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic completely shut down the event planning business, Forton-Barnes recognized an opportunity to pursue her passion to help people eliminate toxic and harmful chemicals and live healthier lives. She launched a new business using fifty-plus years of hands-on, real-world experience living a holistic, non-toxic lifestyle.

“The Green Living Gurus, LLC are promoters of healthy living and a non-toxic lifestyle,” Forton-Barnes says. “Our mission is to help people reduce their exposure to toxins, especially carcinogens, in their homes and daily lives. We assist people with compromised health conditions in creating a non-toxic home, reducing chemical exposure, lessening fear

of cancer, and other illnesses, and increasing odds for a healthy life.

Reducing exposure to chemicals can also eliminate headaches, migraines, rashes, runny noses, itchy eyes, sore throats, wheezing, and hives.”

Forton-Barnes continues to train and further her education; she recently completed a course that explores the history of the environmental health movement, public policy around toxins, industry front groups, epigenetics, toxicology, and detoxification protocols. She also has studied potential exposures in and around homes, such as home construction, furniture, carpeting, bedding, personal care products, indoor air quality, basement, garage, and lawn care.

Green Living Gurus, LLC sells a line of cleaning products called Tee’s Organics. Unlike traditional cleaning products, these use safe, non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients. All bottles are refillable. The company also partners with Austin Air and is

FEATURE an Amazon associate, which allows them to provide customers with a “one-stop shop for all items organic, non-toxic, green, and sustainable” including air purifiers, reusable personal care products, and more.

Forton-Barnes also launched a podcast, Green Living with Tee, in 2020; it’s now nearing its hundredth episode. On the show, Forton-Barnes helps listeners navigate the process of making healthier choices and informs them of alternative products and options that are not harmful to their

health and the environment. She also hosts special guests such as doctors, health coaches, fitness experts, and epigeneticists to discuss various topics. Listen at thegreenlivinggurus. com/podcasts.

For information on how to avoid toxic chemicals and lead a healthier lifestyle, visit thegreenlivinggurus. com. FY Michael J. Billoni is a storyteller and publisher.

Hear from Green Living Gurus' customers The most exciting part of doing business for Forton-Barnes is hearing from satisfied customers.

Check out what a few of them have to say: “I used to put on a mask and make sure the kids and dog were not in the room when I would clean. I then realized I was polluting my house with toxic chemicals!

Therese has helped us learn about the massive amounts of chemicals in products and avoid them, from candles, laundry soap, personal care, and cleaning supplies. I was so happy she began Tee’s Organics.

Now, no one needs to leave the room. I don’t need five different products; I clean the bathroom, the toilet, the kitchen, and even the car with it. I love the smell, and it has changed my life. I don’t mind cleaning anymore. The kids love it too!” –Laura “As a cancer survivor, I was on a mission to find a cleaning product that did not have toxic

cancer-causing chemicals in it. I was ecstatic to have found Tee’s Organics. My eyes used to water when I would use the ones loaded with chemicals. I knew this could not be good for me. I now have peace of mind knowing I am not spraying any chemicals in my home and the air we breathe is so much cleaner. I use it for everything, and my husband and I love the smell!”

–Mary “Therese has taught me so much about everyday products and what to be on the lookout for in ingredients. I always thought I needed to use chemicals to clean. I started researching the ingredients I was spraying in my home and realized this could not be good for my family or me. I studied how the chemicals I was using also can harm our immune system and potentially make us sick. I am so happy she began Tee’s Organics product line, and the slogan is perfect: ‘healthy for you and your home!’” –Kathy

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ARTS

Closing the loop

Buffalo gets its first zero-waste shop

BY MATTHEW BIDDLE The refill station at Little Salmon Photo by Tracey Wei

R

eusable alternatives for disposable cotton swabs. A soap dish made from recycled concrete. Collapsible water bottles and food containers. Cocktail-inspired soaps in scents like mint mojito, limoncello, and Long Island iced tea.

These are just a few of the products you’ll find at Little Salmon, along with compostable iPhone cases, stainless steel straws, and adorable dryer balls that look like ladybugs and penguins.

Opened in summer 2021, Little Salmon is Buffalo’s first zero-waste shop. It aims to help customers reduce their carbon footprint with products made from sustainable and ethical sources. Before stocking an item, coowner Tracey Wei scrutinizes every brand for quality and sustainability by examining labor practices, packaging (or lack thereof), and use of biodegradable, organic or recycled materials.

“Zero waste is the perfect goal that 16

we want to work toward, but life isn’t perfect. No one is perfect,” says Wei, who owns the shop with partner Michael Mahoney. “We’re all flawed and busy, so [the shop] is more of an offering to help people improve and keep the conversation going.”

Located on Lexington Avenue in the Elmwood Village, Little Salmon is built on the principle of a circular economy, which seeks to eliminate waste and pollution by transforming how products are made and used.

In contrast to a traditional linear economy, which rewards consumption of resources, the circular economy prioritizes renewable energy and encourages sharing and reuse.

www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

Around the artfully merchandised store, examples of the circular economy abound: tooth tabs that cut out plastic toothpaste tubes, Swedish dishcloths that replace paper towels, and shampoo bars that avoid plastic bottles. Wei’s favorite is the beeswax wrap that replaces plastic clingwrap in her kitchen.

Little Salmon’s refill station allows customers to fill up their own containers with everything from body wash, shampoo, and conditioner, to lotion, beard oil, and hand soap, thus eliminating another single-use bottle from the waste stream each time. Wei says customers can bring in their own clean containers, purchase one from the

store, or use one that’s been donated by a previous customer.

To attract local customers, Little Salmon offers free delivery on orders over $30 within five miles of the shop, even on refill purchases. In that case, customers simply leave their containers outside, and Wei’s team will pick them up, fill them, and return them within a couple days.

“It’s definitely scarier; the unpredictability is higher,” Wei says of opening a new business during a pandemic.

Another challenge? Being the only store of its kind in the market.

“I took a leap of faith,” Wei says.

“There weren’t craft beer places in Buffalo a while ago, and someone took a chance and opened one. We were banking on people wanting something new, something different. And we thought, ‘Maybe if we’re the first and only ones, then there’s not much competition, right?’”

So far, the response has been positive, Wei says, with many repeat visits from customers who have embraced a lowwaste mindset.

In turn, those sales have already allowed Little Salmon to give back to the community by donating three percent of its profits to the Buffalo nonprofits Upward Design for Life and the Massachusetts Avenue Project. In addition, Wei says many of the brands featured in the store donate to their own causes, like animal welfare groups, ocean cleanups, WaterAid, and 1% for the Planet.

“It’s business with a purpose,” says Wei. “We don’t want to run a business purely for profit. We want to run a business with a story to tell, that engages with the community.

“Know that something good is happening when you purchase here.

You’re voting with your dollar.”

For more information, visit littlesalmon.co. FY Matthew Biddle is a Tonawandabased writer and frequent contributor to Buffalo Spree and Forever Young.

GENEALOGY

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS genealogy community becomes. See what new things Facebook can do for you—and for your ancestors. FY

Using Facebook groups for research W

hen Facebook was becoming the next big thing, I didn’t have much interest. Why did I need a computer to talk to people I could just call? My attitude changed when my oldest son moved to Japan. Facebook became a lifeline and, years later, it’s still the simplest way for us to keep in touch.

Social media has taken connection Forum, along with many much smaller take photos of an ancestor’s grave for to a whole new level, and, over the groups with more specific interests such me. Genealogy gold. years, I’ve found ways to use Facebook as Random Acts of Photo Restoration, are Once group membership is groups to expand my genealogy also available. approved, you can search through research. If you’re interested in family A couple of my favorites are posts and ask questions. If you don’t history but you’re not a Facebook user, Technology for Genealogy (for the find help in one group, move to it’s time to jump aboard. latest tech news) and Random Acts another, but not without trying to help Before social media, there were of Genealogical Kindness (for help someone yourself first. Good karma chat rooms and online forums with those research brick walls). The goes a long way. where genealogy enthusiasts could Genealogy Squad, created by genealogy The ways in which a Facebook group share resources. Because there are experts, answers questions while can be helpful are limitless and may countless websites and societies to aid teaching best practices. The Organized surprise you. One of the more unusual genealogists, it may not have occurred Genealogist shares tricks for finally things I’ve seen was the posting of an to you to try Facebook, where getting rid of that paper pile while unidentified family photograph. The people congregate in specific spaces Deciphering Genealogy Script is the researcher admitted that it was a Hailto communicate about common second pair of eyes you need when the Mary after years of research. We all interests, including genealogy. words just don’t make sense. cheered when another group member Did you know that Facebook has Search by location. For example, posted the same photograph; they were over 11,000 genealogy groups? There I belong to a group devoted to my second cousins living 5,000 miles apart! are larger ones such as Ancestry, Family grandparents’ small village of San Pietro As you explore groups, you’ll be Search, and Family Tree Maker, as well a Maida, Italy. Occasionally, someone reminded that you’re not alone; we’re as DNA-specific groups like DNA will post a photo with a familiar name all trying to knock down our own brick Detectives. Topical groups such as that opens a line of communication. A walls. The more people who share The Civil War Genealogy and Research recent connection was kind enough to questions and insights, the stronger the

Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists.

She has a monthly column in the Niagara Gazette and Forever Young Magazine. She is a Board Chairman as well as President of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. Send questions or comments to her at noellasdaughter@ gmail.com

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BEING WELL

Constipation: reasons and remedies

BY CATHERINE STACK

L

ast month’s discussion of the top ten side effects of constipation may have left you wondering how to prevent or cure this uncomfortable issue. Because constipation occurs for different reasons, there is no one-sizefits-all answer.

The knowledge I’m about to of constipated patients for more than share didn’t come from medical or fifteen years. As there is little guidance even holistic training; it came from on this topic, I am currently writing experience with treating hundreds a course for healthcare providers on

18

www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

methods I’ve seen work. Research studies largely involve prescription medications, rather than magnesium or herbal remedies, as there is more financial incentive to study pharmaceuticals and/or medical intervention.

Colon hydrotherapy, the most effective tool I have ever witnessed to help turn things around permanently, isn’t found in studies at all; it’s often shrugged off as “woo-woo.” Patients consistently report their doctors saying that colon hydrotherapy (colonics) will deplete healthy bacteria or cause harm. I disagree as this has been the most help to my patients, even after specialist visits have been exhausted.

The constipated individual rarely has an abundant supply of healthy bacteria and being constipated is far more problematic, not to mention uncomfortable. A properly trained colon hydrotherapist will not cause harm, as he or she is well-versed in determining appropriate candidacy for this therapy.

Acute constipation can occur when normal routine is disrupted by things like travel, surgical procedures, and pain medications. It typically responds well to use of over-thecounter laxatives, stool softeners, or enemas. Used infrequently, these methods will have no untoward effect.

It’s worth noting, however, that many of the aforementioned acute episodes may be more chronic than one thinks.

However, many of the acutely constipated people described above are more chronically constipated than they think. If this might be you, listen up.

Chronic constipation rarely responds to drinking more water and eating more fiber. Increased fiber intake can backfire, leaving constipated individuals feeling even more uncomfortable. I don’t recommend fiber supplements until things are moving well, at which point they can help prevent future back-up. Maybe.

Based on my own observations and assessments, I estimate that fifteen percent of chronically constipated individuals are likely anatomically incorrect and therefore predisposed to long-term constipation. (With colonoscopy, be alert for terms like tortuous bowel or elongated bowel.) These individuals often say that they have had issues for as far back as they can remember. For this group, switching things up is the absolute key to success. It can be tedious but there is so much to gain.

Magnesium is the staple of these remedies. Suggested intake may be 800-1200 milligrams of magnesium citrate—in capsule or powder form— every night. This is safe to use nightly and will not cause melanosis coli (darkening of the colon lining) like regular laxatives. It is easily excreted via the kidneys, and, if you take too much, you’ll have diarrhea. Oh, happy day!

Supplements to rotate include aloe ferox (Cape Aloe), Smooth Move tea, Kondremul Oil, Mag07, a vitamin C flush and some of the over-thecounter supplements that contain senna and or cascara. Switching things up keeps your body guessing and moving and avoids complications

BEING WELL from laxative abuse. Sameness allows the body to easily slip back into the uncomfortable state of constipation.

Dietary advice is simple. Steer clear of dairy—even yogurt. Eat flaxseed and/or chia seed daily. Of course, I highly recommend fruits and vegetables make up the bulk of your diet.

Clearing chronic constipation and healing a damaged gut is often a journey full of trial, error, and commitment. Here are some common mistakes to avoid: • •

•

Relying on laxatives for a longterm solution Not getting to or even trying to find the root cause of the problem and settling for a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) Expecting complete resolution or recovery in thirty days when suffering has been going on for much longer

• • •

Expecting dietary changes to solve everything Not realizing that stress and anxiety play a huge role in gut health Trying a new remedy and expecting it to work continuously

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF!

Stay positive, don’t give up, and email me with questions at journeyiihealth@gmail.com. FY Catherine Stack is owner, facilitator, and Doctor of Naturopathy at Journey II Health.

She specializes in colon health and bio-identical hormone replacement and is a practicing staff midwife at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital.

Her books, Free Yourself from a CONSTIPATED Life and PUSH, Labor & Delivery from the Inside Out are available on amazon.com.

Visit cathistack.com for more info.

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March 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 19

RADIO

CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH SOLUTION SOLU TION

CLOCK REPAIR All types including Grandfathers.

Free In-Home Estimate, Pick Up, Deliver. Call or Text: 716-3647224.

SERVICES MUSICAL MEDITATION AND COMPASSION WITH SONDRA consisting of guided breathing, gentle yoga, & pianistic music via phone. Call between 10am & 5pm. Fee donations accepted.

716-947-5092

From the desk of WECK Radio owner and local business advocate Buddy Shula

CHILLE FOR BREAKFAST It may not taste good, but it’ll sound great! Beginning March 7, local morning show legend Joe Chille will be waking up with you every weekday from 6 a.m.—9 a.m. on the BIG WECK. Many listeners know Joe, a Buffalo Hall of Fame Broadcaster, from his fifty years of morning show hosting at JOY FM or, most recently, Mix 96.

Now, he returns to the BIG WECK to host a fun, live morning show complete with local weather, traffic, news you need, and, of course, the best oldies to start your day off right.

Joe will be joined each morning by Channel 2 meteorologist Patrick Hammer.

WECK is also thrilled to announce Buffalo Hall of Famers Tom Donahue from 9 a.m.—12 p.m. and Roger Christian from 12 p.m.—3 p.m. Fan favorite Bobby O sits down with you for supper from 3 p.m.—7 p.m., and Glenn Topolski rounds out your day from 7 p.m.— midnight, Monday-Friday.

When it comes to local radio truly made in Buffalo, think WECK: Buffalo’s #1 Oldies Station.

Listen on air, online, on your phone, and on your voice-activated devices.

Have a wonderful month of March, and thanks for listening.

AD DEADLINE IS NO LATER THAN MARCH 16TH FOR THE APRIL ISSUE. To Place your ad Call NOW!

783-9119 x2220

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Forever Young readers: we want to hear from you! Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized?

Tell us more. Do you have a story you’d like to share?

Drop us a line. We want to devote space in Forever Young to what matters most: you. Send your story ideas to editor Sabrina Kahwaty at skahwaty@ foreveryoungwny.com.

Buddy Shula Owner /CEO 20

EXPERIENCED ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES WANTED

Go to www.facebook.com and search for “Forever Young”

www.foreveryoungwny.com | March 2022

The ideal candidates: • Know and love the WNY region • Have experience in advertising sales • Love meeting new people • Are equally comfortable at happy hour as around the conference table • Possess excellent communication, negotiation, and closing skills

is growing!

Join our team at WNY’s longest-running publication for mature adults!

Full and/or part-time position includes competitive compensation and health benefits.

Email resumes in confidence to Publisher, Barbara Macks at bmacks@buffalospree.com

NOTEWORTHY 16

17-20

27

31

March 5, 12, 19, 26 Take a Look: Create!

Kids create their own art inspired by the Burchfield Penney Art Center’s collection.

9:30–10 a.m., Burchfield Penney Art Center (1300 Elmwood Avenue; burchfieldpenney.org, 878-6011)

March 17–20 Plantasia WNY’s premier landscaping and gardening show includes two buildings of beautiful gardens, vendors, and educational seminars.

10 a.m.–9 p.m. (Thurs, Fri, Sat), 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (Sun) at the Hamburg Fairgrounds (5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg; the-fairgrounds.com, 649-3900)

March 16 Louise Blanchard Bethune Join Bethune biographer Kelly Hayes McAlonie as she brings this Gilded Age icon, the first professional woman architect in the United States, to life.

6 p.m., Buffalo History Museum (One Museum Court, buffalohistory.org; 873-9644)

March 27 - April 2 Harper Lee’s To Kill A Mockingbird All rise for Academy Award-winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork. The New York Times Critic’s Pick To Kill a Mockingbird is “the most successful American play in Broadway history” (60 Minutes).

Shea’s Performing Arts Center (646 Main Street; sheas.org, 847-1410)

March 31 Diana Krall Grammy-award winning musician Diana Krall is the only jazz singer to have eight albums debut at the top of the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. Her artistry transcends any single musical style and has made her one of the most recognizable artists of our time.

8 p.m., Mainstage Theatre (Center for the Arts, UB North Campus, Amherst; ubcfa.org, 645-6915)