Forever Young August 2023

Photo by Josh Flanigan

Photo by Christine Smyczynski

OUR 35TH YEAR 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12

Amherst, NY 14228

Phone 716.783.9119

Fax 716.783.9983

www.foreveryoungwny.com

CORPORATE

President Sharon C. Levite

Publisher / Chief Revenue Officer Barbara E. Macks

Vice President Administrative & Finance

Michele Ferguson

Publisher Barbara E. Macks

EDITORIAL

connected

Executive Editor

Managing Editor

Sabrina Kahwaty

Donna Hoke

Assistant Editor Reagan Zuber

Contributing Writers Carol Ann Harlos, Olivia Guthrie, Judith A. Rucki, Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits, Ashley Ziomek

Proofreader Sharon C. Levite

ART & PRODUCTION

Since 2020, it seems we hear more talk about the importance of staying connected—and for good reason. Research has shown that social isolation increases risk of not only mental health issues like anxiety and depression, but also physical conditions like dementia, chronic illness, and hearing loss. A National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine report notes that more than one-third of adults aged forty-five and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged sixty-five and older are considered socially isolated.

Creative Director

Jean-Pierre Thimot

Lead Designer Nicholas Vitello

Senior Graphic Designers / Illustrators

Graphic Designers

Joshua Flanigan, Kim Miers

Taramarie Mitravich, Rachel Kaznica

Photographers kc kratt, Luke Copping, Stephen Gabris, Nancy J. Parisi

Director of Sales & Advertising

National Ad Director

Senior Account Executives

ADVERTISING & SALES

Barbara E. Macks

Terri Downey

Mary Beth Holly, Caroline Kunze, Robin Lenhard

Account Executives Keren Green, Rachel Wasserman

Sales Coordinator

MARKETING & CIRCULATION

Director of Audience Development

Social Media Director

DIGITAL

Robin Lenhard

Robin Lenhard

Robin Lenhard

Web Master Kim Miers

ADMINISTRATIVE & FINANCE

Administrative & Finance Director

Michele Ferguson

Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2023 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 2023 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

During lockdown, we had to get creative with ways to stay in touch: virtual happy hours and distanced backyard hangouts were my mainstays. Now that the world has normalized, it’s easier to get together safely, and yet it can still feel challenging to do it consistently. Forever Young is here to help. In this month’s issue, we’re exploring ways to connect—virtually, in person, and through meaningful activity. We’ve got suggestions for community engagement, finding interest groups, bus tours, and more. If

you don’t see something that appeals to you, check out our Noteworthy events and consider getting a group together for an outing or try a group from our Resources.

As Judith Rucki rightly points out in this month’s “Let’s Talk About...” aging brings many benefits and joys. Embrace them fully by keeping in touch with family, friends, and your community.

Warmly,

Sabrina Kahwaty Executive Editor

FOREVER YOUNG *AUGUST RESOURCES

*PLEASE CONTACT EVENT/PROGRAM ORGANIZERS TO CONFIRM INFORMATION PROVIDED

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

Buffalo PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP United Way – Room 219, 742 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo. Contact: Stephanie Mruzek. Email: eastamherstDSM@ solsticeseniorliving.com. Visit parkinson.org for a full listing of Parkinson’s support groups in WNY.

Buffalo ZERO/US TOO! PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Buffalo VA Hospital (3495 Bailey Avenue, Room 301) 7-9 p.m. and at Sisters Hospital, St. Joe’s Campus (2605 Harlem Road in the First Floor Community Room) 7-9 p.m., on the third Tuesday of each month. Free and open to all.

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

Clarence WNY MEDICARE SMART START PROGRAM offers free help applying for Medicare. WNY MEDICARE SMARTSAVER PROGRAM offers free help to review, research, maximize coverage, and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. Services offered through WNY Medicare Resource Center. Info: 833-0252 or wnymedicare.org

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

Do you have an event or resource to list? Email it to skahwaty@foreveryoungwny.com.

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

Hamburg ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT

GROUP for males; call 626-0600 or visit alz.org/wnyc for info.

Kenmore KENTON COMMUNITY RESOURCE

HUB offers health and wellness and providers, WIC, SNAP, veterans’ assistance, and more. Third Thursday of each month, 11:30 - 1:30 p.m. Kenmore United Methodist Church (32 Landers Road). For info, email kumcoffice32@gmail.com.

Niagara Falls SENIOR COMPANION/FOSTER 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

Niagara Falls SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB: This active 50+ crowd holds Meet & Greets second Fridays at Tim Hortons (8500 Niagara Falls Boulevard) and dances third Friday at Buff Social Club (2565 Young St.). For more info, see Facebook: SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB or call 550-1232

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

Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS

Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m. FREE. Visit facebook.com/BuffaloLaughers for information.

Southtowns NEW HORIZONS MUSIC Calling all musicians 50+. For info, email Janet Stout at 354janet@gmail.com and visit newhorizonsmusic.org.

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

Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 6323700 or mcguiregroup.com

Multiple Locations 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 Paula 984-3512

Cheektowaga For info, call MaryAnn 895-4414

Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 385-7558

Farnham For info, call 934-9619

Lancaster For info, call Eva 407-0539 Silver Creek For info, call 680-0313

Tonawanda For info, call 693-5161

www.tops.org

West Seneca For info, call 474-9125

ACROSS

1. Deli side

5. *”Breakfast at Tiffany’s” animal

8. Songs for one

12. What formica and biochemical have in common

13. Prefix for partly

14. Dark

15. Crew equipment, pl.

16. Steinbeck’s “East of ____”

17. Golf shirt

18. *”Marmaduke” animal

20. *”Away & Back” animal

21. Game “field”

22. Slightly insane

23. Casual top

26. Vending machine

30. Rocks, to a bartender

31. Bowling prop

34. Lush

35. Trots and canters

37. Broadcasting medium

38. Inflammatory swelling

39. Highland tongue

40. Sock pattern

42. Bring into play

43. Go back over

45. Theater passages

47. Part of a cheer

48. Lump of anything

50. Milo and Otis, e.g.

52. *”Dunston Checks In” animal

56. Wheel on a spur

57. CISC alternative

58. Private theater box

59. Resembling wings

60. MacFarlane or Rogen

61. Go-____

62. *Bullseye, Hamm and Lotso Bear, e.g.

63. Lyric poem

64. Immediately, doctor’s jargon

DOWN

1. Air quality concern

2. Fibber

3. Farm measure

4. Sushi condiment

5. Natural moth repellent

6. To change, as in the U.S. Constitution

7. Fork prong

8. *”Harry Potter” animal (2 words)

9. Earthenware pot

10. *”Born Free” animal

11. I in T.G.I.F.

13. Administer diazepam

14. When Cinderella wins

19. Civil wrongs

22. “Some Nights” band

23. *”Life of Pi” animal

24. Close call

25. Bank job

26. Gossamer

27. Cry like #5 Across

28. Liquorice flavored herb

29. Hues

32. Backgammon predecessor

33. *”Babe” animal

36. *”Anchorman” and “The Wizard of Oz” animals

38. Kundera’s “Unbearable Lightness

40. “That feels good!” exclamation

41. Set in motion

44. Like a go-getter bird

46. Lies in ambush

48. Wept

49. It makes waste?

50. Singular of #17 Across

51. Home versus ____ game

52. Guesstimate phrase (2 words)

53. To perfection (3 words)

54. Taj Mahal city

55. As opposed to gross

56. *”Willard” animal

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

THEME: MOVIE ANIMALS

Sustaining life

Why pollinator gardens are important

year! This could be a “showy” garden with masses of flowers blooming over the seasons—always something new coming up. Why? Because you are advertising—or your plants are. “Hey, pick up my pollen! My nectar is delicious. Come closer, please!”

Who cares about pollinators? We do; we’re gardeners! But why are they important? Pollen—a powdery substance necessary for plant reproduction—is the only source of protein for pollen eaters or “palynivores.” Honeybees, some beetle species, pollen mites (tiny eight legged creatures), some butterflies and moths, some flies, some spiders, and some birds eat pollen.

Since pollen cannot move on its own, it is carried by wind, water, or insects, birds, and other creatures. Pollen is so tough that it is even found in fossil records at the bottom of lakes. That’s how we know what used to grow here!

Pollen from different plants is different in shape, size, and color, and how much nutrition it carries. I love watching honeybees return to their hives with their pollen baskets (located on their legs) filled. If the basket is filled with orange pollen, it’s from asparagus. If it’s from pear trees, it will be reddish yellow. If it is from the herb borage, it is rather gray. Pollen needs to get from the male part (stamen) of a flower to the female part (pistil); sometimes this is in the same flower. Other times, it’s transferred to another flower of the same type. And this is why creatures that visit blooming plants are so

important. While they are taking care of themselves, they may also be taking care of us.

Did you notice I just wrote “may”? That’s because not all food depends on pollinator insects! Oats, wheat, rye, maize, rice, and other cereal grains don’t need pollinators. Bananas, pineapples, and grapes don’t depend on pollinators. Some plants selfpollinate without any other creature getting involved.

But if you eat apples, cherries, blueberries, peaches, plums, almonds—you perhaps have heard about truckloads of honeybees be trucked to California to pollinate almond trees--watermelon, kiwi, or pumpkins, you’re depending on pollinators to get those to your table.

Have you ever found pollen on your car? This comes from gymnosperms—pines, yew, spruce for example. These are wind pollinated

plants so to be successful, they have to produce gigundous (love that word!) amounts of pollen. Pollen carried in the air tends to be small and light, so plants that produce this pollen usually have no petals or nectar; insects only come to them if nothing else is available.

Pollen produced by pretty plants, such as those commonly grown in gardens, is heavy, sticky, and full of protein. Stand near your garden and watch and you might see pollen sticking to insects, especially hairy ones. These pollen grains are chock full of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and carbohydrates. That is the reason that “good honey” is strained to get out bee parts and bits of wax but not filtered; filtering removes pollen and much flavor.

If you have a true pollinator garden, you will be growing plants with flowers during three seasons of the

Double-flowered plants have extra rows of petals that make it difficult for pollinating insects to get their bodies and tongues into the flowers to reach the nectaries. Examples include pompom dahlias, certain hybrid tea roses, and mop head chrysanthemums. Then there are pollenless sunflowers that contain sterile male flowers, that offer no pollen but may have nectar that attracts insects. Pollonless plants are welcomed by wedding planners and florists—less mess.

One reason I love gardening so much is that there is always something new happening in my gardens. I was delighted last year when Sue Martin from the Buffalo News commented in late August that there were still so many plants in bloom and much buzzing and flying of insects. She noticed! Grow a pollinator garden! You will see bees, wasps, flies, hummingbird moths, butterflies….beautiful, sometimes messy...wonderful!

I love hearing from you: caharlos@ verizon.net FY

Carol Ann Harlos is an awardwinning retired math and science teacher, Master Gardener, beekeeper, writer, and speaker. She tends extensive gardens, including herbs, and loves learning from others and sharing her knowledge.

CAROL ANN HARLOS

Draft records

Where to find them and how they help

Recently, while researching my paternal grandfather, I came across—to my surprise—a World War II US draft record for him. Now I’d heard about the “Old Man’s Draft” and had applied it to client’s research but foolishly never applied it to my own. Rookie mistake. He’d emigrated from Italy in 1912 and when WWII began, all seven of his sons volunteered. In my mind, this was my father’s war, not my grandfather’s.

If you’re unfamiliar with how drafts work, as my son was, local boards conducted draft registrations to identify men eligible for service in times of war. In this article, I will focus specifically on World Wars I and II, for which surviving registration cards provide information on several generations of men. Military draft records can

include those who served as well as many who registered but were never called. On the flip side, those who enlisted or were already in the service at the time of the conflict will not be found.

The Conscription Act, or draft, was first employed during the Civil War. Although most of the troops volunteered, about two

percent were draftees and another six percent were paid substitutes. (Fun Fact: Those with means paid a substitute to serve for them. The going price was around $300, but quickly rose to $1,100-plus as the war went on.) The Act declared that men between the ages of twenty and forty-five were eligible for duty along with aliens who had already filed their declaration of intention to become citizens. The draft lasted until 1865, when the war ended.

There were three WWI draft registrations that occurred between 1917 and 1918. The first two registered men between the ages of twenty-one and thirty-one and the third recorded men ages eighteen to forty-five. This means that men born as early as 1873 and as late as 1900 should have a record on file.

The WWII draft registered an even larger selection of men in four groups, including those aged fortyfive to sixty-four as part of what is often known as “Old Man’s Draft” in 1942. Rather than recoding men of fighting age, this fourth draft of men had the sole purpose of gathering information about resources in the United States. Registrations recorded the men’s industrial capacity and skills that could be used for military support.

Draft records may include name, residence, birth information, physical description, enlistment and discharge dates, injuries or illnesses, and disabilities. This information is also useful when combined with other research. Residence and occupation details can separate similar named

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS

ancestors while an immigrant’s claim to be a US citizen could lead you on a search for naturalization records.

Online, you can find WWI records at Ancestry.com, Findmypast.com and FamilySearch.com. WWII records are available at Ancestry. com, FamilySearch.com and Fold3. com. These record collections aren’t necessarily complete as some state’s records were destroyed before being microfilmed. You can also complete

a selective service request form and email or drop it in your mailbox to request copies. Visit stl.archives@ nara.gov. for the form and more information.

Locating an ancestor’s draft card can move your research forward in many ways. Birth information can tell you about births that occurred long before a state began keeping vital records. A woman named as a man’s nearest relative might narrow your search for a marriage record while a personal description including height, build, hair, and eye color allows you to visualize your ancestor where photos are unavailable. FY

Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of both the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists. Carol is also Vice-President and Board Chairman of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. Contact her at noellasdaughter@gmail.com.

TheatreAlongside the Canal

Friday, July 14 Bellissima Productions “Spotlight Cabaret: The Past 5 Years”

Friday, August 4 Stand Up Entertainment Comedy

Friday, August 18 Lake Plains Players “State of the Arts” Cabaret

Food & Beverages Available from Old Man River

Tonawandas Gateway Park along the Erie Canal

Tonawandas Gateway Park along the Erie Canal

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

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

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar

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

WEDNESDAY

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C — SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

7

Bingo Calendar (continued)

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. 239-2787

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

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

BINGO IN CANADA

GOLDEN NUGGET

655 Garrison Rd., Fort Erie

1 & 7 p.m. daily • 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday

4 p.m Saturday and Sunday. 905-871-1277

DELTA MONTE CARLO

4735 Drummond, N. Falls

1& 7 p.m ............................... 905-356-8104

CASINO

SENECA GAMING

Broad St., Salamanca

1 p.m. Sunday • 1 & 7 p.m. Wednesday

7 p.m. Thursday and Friday • 1 & 7 p.m. Saturday 945-4080, 877-860-5130 ONEIDA INDIAN

The joys of being older Living happily ever after

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

Women past fifty can be heard complaining about Invisible Women Syndrome. People stop seeing them, men look through them, and salespeople ignore them. Men don’t always fare much better. Some lost hair here and a paunch there can bring about an air of quiet desperation. And yet, despite cracks in the Fountain of Youth, aging doesn’t have to mean becoming isolated, invisible, or unhappy.

Randomly asking people what they enjoy about being older results in answers from funny to sublime. No more fear of unwanted pregnancies, not having to work for a miserable boss, opportunities to pursue dreams, and a guaranteed minimum income are a few advantages cited.

With a few years under our belts, we cope better with negative emotions like anger, fear, and sadness. We learn to focus on what matters and let go of what doesn’t. We no longer care what others think about us. We’ve learned that worrying about what others think can be damaging to our selfimage and mental health.

Older folks tend to have a greater sense of acceptance of self and others. We’ve achieved life experience that helps us make smart decisions. And we understand the importance of being grateful for what we have.

Writing for Verywell Mind, Mark Stibich, Ph.D., posed the question, “Is aging the secret to happiness?” and goes on to cite research showing Americans get happier as they age, despite health conditions and other problems.

“An aging America may be the happiest America we have ever seen,” says Stibich. “Perhaps this is because of the wisdom that comes with age or because older people adjust their expectations in life. Whatever the reason, there is solid evidence that older Americans are truly happier than younger ones.”

Aging is inevitable, but smart choices can slow declining effects.

Author Tara Parker-Pope’s New York

Times article “How to Age Well” offers several suggestions to keep bodies “tuned up and our minds tuned in.” As she says, “It’s never too late to get started.”

Losing just five percent of our body weight has been shown to reduce our risk for diabetes and heart disease. Parker-Pope suggests avoiding processed meat, and eating colorful foods like blueberries, cherries, spinach, and kale. She advises skipping packaged foods and getting tested for vitamin deficiencies.

Exercise is important to our overall health, and high intensity workouts that last fewer than fifteen minutes can be more beneficial than an hour of continuous and relatively moderate exercise. Weightlifting helps us maintain muscle mass and stronger bones. Parker-Pope points out that we don’t have to lift weights like a body builder to reap benefits. And seven to nine hours of quality shuteye each night gives our bodies the best chance to repair, restore, and revitalize.

Researchers tell us that people with healthy lifestyles and friendships live the longest so add years by staying in touch with family and friends, as well as forming new relationships. Stay connected by making friends, volunteering, joining clubs, or working. (This issue has plenty of suggestions!)

“Aging well means taking care of both the body and the mind,” says Parker-Pope. “Most of what we do to keep our bodies fit is also good for the brain.” So dance, paint, quilt, sing, write, play an instrument; these activities “add

meaning, joy, and a vibrant sense of well-being to the lives of older people.”

One last thought courtesy of neuroscientist Daniel Levitin, who cites World Health Organization data from sixty countries showing that happiness grows with age. In fact, some experts say eighty-two may be the happiest age, a time when feelings of joy and contentment peak. Looks like we have a lot of living to do! FY

Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer.

Zedek

“There is solid evidence that older Americans are truly happier than younger ones.”

Taking Buffalo by bus

Tours make travel efficient

BY ASHLEY ZIOMEK

It feels like the first true summer since COVID entered our lives that we don’t feel overshadowed by it. Buffalo is opening back up full throttle, and there is so much to see and do. What better way to explore than by bus?

Lest the word conjure images of yellow school buses, let’s say “motor coach,” i.e. top of line, spacious vehicles with comfortable

seating, easy entrance access, and even restrooms! Touring with a

group this way offers opportunities to meet people with similar interests based on the activity or destination you’re headed to. If being social isn’t a priority, it’s still a chance to check out the city from a comfy seat, with no concerns about parking, walking, etc. A tour guide is stationed on the bus with you, there to explain history, architecture, and more. Many tours make stops for exploration, picturetaking, and food breaks. Guides are always open to questions.

Buffalo companies offer tours from local to hours away to out of state. Choose from overnight tours, dining experiences, a two-hour trip, and more.

Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tour

246-9080

These two-story buses allow you to sit up high or down low while you tour the city with humor. The tours provide spunk, jokes, and educational information as you explore one of the many sites offered, including the silos and waterfront.

D & F Travel, Inc.

835-9227

On classic charter buses with plush seats, you’ll enjoy a day at the casino, sightseeing or shopping, or perhaps an overnight stay. Some trips even include a boat cruise!

Maestro Tours

235-7165

Maestro travels all over— to Michigan, Rhode Island, Gettysburg, New York City, and so much more. Coming in November, a special mystery tour—destination unknown until you board—also includes a dining experience.

With such a multitude of tour offerings, vibes, and destinations, it’s time to grab some friends, or just grab your water bottle, and check out what Buffalo has to offer!

Ashley Ziomek is a freelance writer living in WNY.

Buffalo Double Decker Bus Tours owner Joel Dombrowski Photo by Josh Flanigan

Click in to your community The internet makes it easy

BY REAGAN ZUBER

Through the power of the internet, we can connect to people around the world instantaneously. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a resource to meet people right here in Western New York. Use the following websites to find fun and friends in your own backyard.

Facebook

This popular social media app helps you keep up with friends you already have and make new connections as well. The best way to do the latter is through Facebook groups, where likeminded people gather virtually to connect on just about anything you can imagine. One popular group, “Buffalo & WNY seniors group 55 and older,” currently has 22,000 friendly members who share on topics of interest to spark conversation and friendship.

Buy Nothing groups allows neighbors to post items they wish to give away or offer help; on the flip side, BN group members can request items or help when needed. Search Facebook by hobby to find groups like the “WNY Hooks and Yarn Crochet Group” or “WNY Fishing.” Groups are monitored by admins who enforce rules to create respectful and healthy environments. You’ll need an active Facebook account to participate.

On the left side of your profile, click on the Events tab to find festivals, concerts, theatre and comedy shows, and more. Entering your location and a date range will help you narrow them down. Clicking through to an event page provides more information on registration, location, and requirements, and even gives you the option to RSVP and share the event with friends.

MeetUp

MeetUp is also a popular site to find in-person events. Simply make an account and type in your location to find groups near you. Groups are available by age ranges, such as “WNY Women 45+ seeking new fun friendships,” as well as by interests, such as “WNY Golf for Fun,” “Western New York Walking Group,” “Buffalo Beer and Wine Tasting Club,” and “Shut up and write! Buffalo.” If you can’t find a group you like, make your own!

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a mobile app that connects you with your neighbors. People post neighborhood events, buy and sell items, ask questions, and discuss issues in the community. You can also message directly with your neighbors. To use, make an account and verify your address.

Dating sites

Online dating is hugely popular and available to all ages. OurTime is intended for mature adults looking for a serious connection, and allows you to insert a desired age range and zip code to find other singles. SilverSingles claims a high success rate and numerous members; it uniquely provides daily profile quality checks to ensure your safety. SeniorMatch only allows members above forty, with a focus on members fifty and over; it claims more than a million members

and thousands of success stories. These are just a few of the many platforms; every site and app has its own focus, so explore and see what works!

Online connections are a great way to form meaningful relationships in the real world, but always be cautious about sharing personal information

that could endanger your physical or financial safety. Meet in public places and let your loved ones know where you’re going and who you’re with. Most of all, have fun! FY

Reagan Zuber is Assistant Editor of Forever Young.

The key to emotional well-being Community engagement keeps us connected

BY OLIVIA GUTHRIE

Humaninteraction is essential to life. COVID robbed us of so much of it, but now that the world has opened up, it’s time to make up for what we missed. One of the best ways to stay connected is through community engagement, a key factor in emotional and physical well-being. Working with others to give back to the place you all call home provides a sense of community that extends from your own group to the region beyond. Keeping up with opportunities can be challenging, so we gathered a few awesome ideas to consider.

West Side Seniors

151 Vermont Street, Buffalo; wscsbuffalo.org

West Side Seniors is a program offered by West Side Community Services (WSCS), a nonprofit organization working to better the Niagara district through various

programs for all age groups since 1978. The program provides seniors with weekly scheduled activities held at WSCS. All are welcome, not just West Side or Niagara district residents. The program includes get-togethers every Wednesday and Friday from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. with “coffee

and conversation, bingo, and lunch,” according to the website. West Side residents can take advantage of the program’s van service to get to and from WSCS.

On Wednesdays, drop-in, “paywhat-you-can” mat yoga classes with instructor Candace Caprow run from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Caprow also teaches seated and standing variations, which may be better for those with mobility limitations, from 10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m.

The Silver Pride Project pridecenterwny.org/ WhatWereHereFor/Aging

Aiming to combat loneliness, the Pride Center of WNY’s Silver Pride Project “provides a community of new friends for seniors.” With workshops, parties, dinners, and plenty of other planned outings, you’ll always have something to do. In addition to making friends, attendees have access to everything the Pride Center offers, like health resources

and social services. The community group is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation or age.

Become a foster grandparent ccswoh.org/foster-grandparents; 8966388

The Foster Grandparent Program through Catholic Charities is a meaningful way to stay connected in the community. Under direct supervision, coordinators assign foster grandparents to children with special needs to teach them how to read. Volunteers can expect between five and forty hours of in-person tutoring each week. The participating educational facilities for the program include Buffalo Public and charter schools, homeless shelters, and preschool and after-school programs.

According to its website, the Foster Grandparent Program offers the following advantages: “making a difference in the life of a child, a small stipend, partial transportation

The Silver Pride Project community group is open to all, regardless of sexual orientation or age.

and meal reimbursement, volunteer insurance, and monthly training.”

Join the Mar-Bon Social Club marbonsocialclub.com

In East Amherst, the Mar-Bon Social Club prides itself on being “Western New York’s first and only social club built exclusively for seniors.” The senior club was created by the children of Mary and Boniface Pope after they witnessed the profound effects that social interaction and community had on their mother following their father’s passing.

The social club dives deeper into what “community” really means. Members can take advantage of daily home-cooked meals, participate in organized activities and exciting events, and get their hair done at the club’s in-house salon.

Mar-Bon provides tours for interested parties who want to experience the club’s offerings before joining.

“DIY”

If clubs or programs aren’t your cup of tea, consider hobbies and passions you enjoy or ones you’ve just always wanted to try. Creating a social group can even be done and enjoyed from the comfort of your home. Ideas for easy set-up and organizing can be as simple as gathering friends and peers from your regularly visited local spots and meeting weekly for a book, movie, knitting, or scrapbooking club. To get outdoors, start a gardening or photography meet-up.

Opportunities to remain engaged are endless so find the one that works for you and reap the benefits of better well-being. FY

Olivia is a civil rights investigator and freelance writer based in Buffalo, NY. She is a contributor to Buffalo Spree and Forever Young. contact@ oliviaguthrie.com

Sisters Victoria Pope and Laurie Pope-Greco own and operate Mar-Bon Social Club.

Photo by Christine Smyczynski

A collection of experiences

BY TODD GEISE

For more than 160 years, Jewish Family Services of Western New York (JFS) has offered a variety of services to improve the lives of Western New Yorkers. While originally formed to support returning Civil War Jews and resettle Eastern European Jews fleeing persecution, the agency has evolved into an organization that today serves everyone—regardless of beliefs or background.

One of JFS’ core service populations is older adults. At JFS, we don’t use the terms “senior” or “senior citizen” because we know that being over fifty, sixty, seventy, or eighty does not lessen your contributions to the world. The wisdom that comes from the collection

of experiences in your life is probably one of the key contributions you provide.

For example, let’s discuss the story of Faina and Naum. These octogenarians are Holocaust survivors who both fled Kiev, Ukraine as children and lived

in Uzbekistan through the remainder of the World War II. At the war’s conclusion, they returned to Kiev to find it destroyed. As they grew up in a post-war world, Faina and Naum met at a school dance. Together, they began the process of building an adult life

that included marriage and the birth of a daughter. But life was not easy for them.

Although the war was over, the persecution of European Jews continued. When Faina and Naum’s daughter was an adult, she left Ukraine for Canada. Longing to be free of discrimination and closer to their daughter, Faina and Naum applied to move to the United States. They were successful and settled in Ohio. This was closer, but not close enough, so the couple moved to the Buffalo area. They are now content with their proximity to Canada, their modest apartment, and the support they receive from JFS’ Holocaust Survivor’s Program.

This program, like all of JFS’ programs, is designed to support individuals in culturally appropriate and responsive ways. Faina and Naum are not numbers; they are a couple with a story that includes joy and pain. The JFS approach is holistic in its intentional development of a plan that speaks to the individual.

The Jewish Federation Apartments Williamsville are a great example of support for all, as one does not need to be Jewish to live there. A JFS staff member works out of the apartments to serve building tenants, providing everything from activities to social services support.

Not too long ago, a grant was awarded to the Federation Apartments that allowed residents to go on a journey anywhere around the world. The COVID experience was particularly hard on older adults; many were isolated, alone, lonely, and afraid. Perhaps you felt this way. JFS knew

we needed to provide opportunities for residents to experience something new—something safe, enjoyable, and that would help them to feel connected and provide conversation.

The answer came in the form of headsets with monitors that could take

residents on virtual journeys around the world. With vibrant photos, videos, and narratives, many residents felt they were actually visiting these European, Asian, and South American countries and cities. Of course, they knew they were not, but this non-threatening and

secure mechanism helped bring faroff experiences closer. What’s more, residents found themselves learning about technology and other places in the world, and they had enjoyable conversations about their travels in the building’s community room. Since the initial introduction of this activity, the equipment has been updated with new places to visit.

As a decades-old resource for older adults, JFS understands that aging is not easy. We hope the two stories we’ve shared here provide you with a glimpse into our work on a more personal level and demonstrate our appreciation for your thoughts and feelings.

We would be remiss if we did not mention that we also understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. To this point, we want to remind you that it is okay to talk with someone. Mental health and wellness are big concepts you may have heard a lot about in recent years. Whether you are coping with physical health

challenges, grieving the loss of a loved one, or simply struggling to keep up with a world that seems like it is moving faster and faster, there are support systems available.

For additional information on JFS’ services for older adults, please call (716) 883-1914. FY

Octogenarian Holocaust survivors Faina and Naum Photo courtesy of Jewish Family Services

Todd Geise is Director of Marketing at Jewish Family Services of Western New York.

The Aunt Ruthie Project

BY DONNA HOKE

About fifteen years ago, my mother was taking turmeric at bedtime because her sister, my aunt Ruthie, had recommended it for leg cramps; she said it helped. My own sister, Lynn Meslinsky, recalled Aunt Ruthie having homeopathic suggestions for fever and cough, and one day asked her if she was writing all this down to pass on to her family. In response, Aunt Ruthie handed my sister a box, what my sister calls “an accumulation of over sixty years of notes, articles, and newspaper clippings, a summary of what one woman learned about nontraditional medicine in her lifetime.”

Lynn sorted through the box, categorized, organized, typed, and compiled to create the end result, a seventy-six-page labor of love, Aunt Ruthie’s Home Remedies. She made a bunch of copies of the book, and distributed them to the family for reference on everything from digestive tract health to skin care. I came upon my copy recently and thought it might be fun to pull a few of Aunt Ruthie’s remedies, and couple them with some “why it works” information or, conversely, why it’s myth (we’ve learned a lot in the past sixty years). And because it’s summer, and we’re all trying to shed that excess winter weight, I’m highlighting a few tidbits from her section on Weight Loss & Metabolism (there is actually a table of contents!).

Item #1: The “hot” in chili peppers, capsaicin, is an effective weight-loss tool. Studies have shown that it acts as an appetite suppressant and people will consume fewer calories at meals that

include chili, cayenne, or other types of “hot” peppers. Capsaicin temporarily stimulates your body to release more stress hormones, such as adrenaline, which speeds up your metabolism and increases your ability to burn calories.

True or False: True. A host of studies confirm that capsaicin boosts thermogenesis, which is the rate at which you burn calories. And, as recently as February 2015, researchers at the University of Wyoming determined that it may do this because it turns white fat to thermogenic brown fat. Other studies show that capsaicin can reduce cholesterol, act as a topical pain reliever, slow the spread of some cancers, and clear congestion. And, good news for non-spicy eaters, there is evidence that shows the compound dihydrocapsiate (DCT), capsaicin’s non-spicy cousin, may be equally effective. I do, however, take issue with the idea that it’s an “effective weight loss tool”; one study I read said that eating a half teaspoon of cayenne

can help you burn ten more calories per four hours than if you hadn’t eaten it. Ten—that’s maybe a mini rice cake. But since cayenne has other benefits, including suppressing appetite, it’s still a good addition to a healthful diet.

Item #5: Carnitine helps deliver specific types of fat to the mitochondria of the cell, where they can be converted into energy and help to metabolize fat.

True or False: True, but the National Institute of Health advises that we do not need to add carnitine— which comes primarily from animal products—to our diets because our liver and kidney make enough of it to meet our daily needs. Thus, carnitine is not an essential nutrient, except in specific genetic and medical cases. Ingesting extra won’t serve to burn more fat, and will be excreted with your urine.

Item #12: Having a drink before a meal causes people to eat around 200 extra calories. The body burns

off alcohol first, which means that the calories in the rest of your meal are more likely to be stored as fat.

True or False: Mostly true, but a little jumbled. It’s true that alcohol can temporarily turn off your body’s ability to burn calories, so whatever energy it was using to burn stored fat, it begins to use to get rid of that alcohol. And alcohol does reduce inhibition when it comes to eating, but less so when the drink itself isn’t sugar-laden: stick to wine, beer, and liquors without mixers. Also, eat while you drink; this causes alcohol to hit the bloodstream more slowly, and also fends off the ravenous binges that occur when you drink first, then decide to eat.

Item #13: Weight training is the best way to crank up your resting metabolic rate.

True or False: False, kind of. Mostly, I’m taking issue with “best” way. While having increased muscle does burn more calories per day—and certainly more than fat—it’s not a monumental amount (unless you’re a body builder), certainly not enough to create the “torching” effect that many weight training programs boast. And, in recent years, interval training has shown to have longer lasting effects on the metabolism. But, weight training, like all exercise, does burn calories, keep your bones healthier as you age, help with balance, and give your body a nicer shape, even when you’re carrying excess pounds.

Item #16: Drink six to eight glasses of water a day.

True or False: This doesn’t actually make any claims about water and weight loss, so I’ll just say that while water doesn’t actually have a weight loss effect, choosing it over other beverages will save you calories and not set up the sugar cravings that diet drinks do. In addition, it’ll make you feel fuller, make your skin look better, keep elimination regular, promote good kidney function, and hydrate your muscles so they can operate at peak efficiency. But you knew all that, right? FY

Donna Hoke is Managing Editor of Forever Young.

BIG WECK AT THE FAIR

August in Western New York means the Erie County Fair! While many think of the Fair as the “unofficial end of summer,” there is still plenty of summer left.

This year, BIG WECK returns to its gazebo at the Fair, giving you the chance to meet broadcast legends Roger Christian, JP, Joe Chille, Tom Donahue, Dan Rinelli, Junior Rosati, Ronnie D, and more while you spin to win great prizes. A portion of proceeds benefits Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. Plus, visit bigweck.com to see the Grandstand shows we’re welcoming, like Chubby Checker and the Spinners.

Find the coolest oldies by listening to the BIG WECK at 1230AM 100.1FM, 102.9FM, and 100.5FM, on voice-activated devices, at bigweck.com, and with our free BIG WECK app. Download it on your tablet or phone and connect via Bluetooth—the sound quality can’t be beaten!

The BIG WECK looks forward to seeing you at the Erie County Fair!

All the best,

Buddy Shula Owner /CEO

August 9-20

Erie County Fair

The beloved Fair includes all the usual exhibits, the Midway, and the grandstand events. Visit the website to buy tickets and download a free Fairgrounds app.

(5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg; ecfair.org, 649-3900)

August 21

Griffis Sculpture Park Summer Festival

This annual fundraiser for Griffis Sculpture Park features live music from local and visiting musicians, a vendor village, a kids’ craft area, food stands, beer, wine, and more.

1-6 p.m., Griffis Sculpture Park

(6902 Mill Valley Road, East Otto; griffissculpturepark.org, 667-2808)

25-26

Through August

August 12

Charity Bowling Fundraiser

Rapids Bowling Center donates all thirty-two lanes to raise money for Help and Hope for Homeless, Inc. A $10 fee includes three games and bowling shoes. This is a “no-tap” event, so if you knock down nine pins on your first ball, it’s a strike!

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Rapids Bowling Center

(9524 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Niagara Falls)

August 25-26

Northwest Jazz Festival

The Northwest Jazz Festival in historic Lewiston returns to highlight local, international, and North American jazz artists. The festival mainstage opens with the United States Air Force Rhythm in Blue Jazz Ensemble and closes with supergroup Something Else! In addition to live music, the event hosts food and beverage vendors including local wineries, distilleries, and breweries. Visit the website for details and full lineup of artists.

lewistonjazz.com, 754-9500

Through August FREE

Free Family Saturdays

Join Artpark each Saturday for arts and crafts, stories, workshops, and live performances.

11 a.m.-4 p.m., Artpark

(450 S. 4th Street, Lewiston; artpark.net, 754-4375)

Erie County Fair photo courtesy of Erie County Fair; Stu Weisman photo courtesy of Northwest Jazz Festival; bowling photo courtesy of Rapids Bowling Center; Griffis photo by Olivia Guthrie; Artpark photo courtesy of Artpark