Forever Young June 2018

JUNE 2018 |

FREE

Western New York’s FREE Monthly Magazine For Adults 50+, With More Than 70,000 Readers

Grandparenting Near and Far Whether in-person or online, keep loved ones close

WNY Playgrounds | Summer Outdoor Music Events

| Exploring South Africa

JUNE 2018

JCC Art Show

11

Canalside 20

Mike Buczkowski

28

Cover: Top: Bozena Obst with granddaughter Magda Cerrone on a visit from Poland. Photo courtesy of the Cerrone family Bottom left: Kids enjoy the playground at Stiglmeier Park. Photo by Anthony Chabala Bottom Center: A crowd attends Wednesday on the Canal at Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Park. Photo by Rick Falkowski Bottom right: A group of zebras on the Amakhala Game Reserve Photo by Jennifer Merrick

Home & Garden 6

Getaways

Bark as Mulch?........................................................Carol Ann Harlos

Let's Talk About...

7

Retying the Knot .......................................................Judith A. Rucki

Arts 8

20 Explore Canalside..................................................Olivia McCarthy 22 South Africa Coast.................................................. Jennifer Merrick

My WNY

Outdoor Concerts............................................................ Rick Falkowski

10 Summer Movie Preview........................................Christopher Schobert 11 JCC Art from the Heart................................................ Judith A. Rucki

Features: Grandparenting Today 16 Long-distance Grandmother.....................................Daniel Meyer

24 The Bisons' Mike Buczkowski............................... Michael Billoni

Being Well 26 Avocados: The Perfect Fruit....................................Catherine Stack

18 Winning Playgrounds................. Anthony Chabala & Kevin Gibbons

Ever y Issue: Calendars 3 | Crossword 5 | Bingo Buzz 12 | Classifieds 28 | Noteworthy 29 COME HOME TO

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EDITOR’S NOTE OUR 30TH YEAR

1738 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 103 Buffalo, NY 14207 Phone 716.783.9119 Fax 716.783.9983 www.foreveryoungwny.com

PUBLISHER

Barbara E. Macks Editor-In-Chief............................................................................Elizabeth Licata

elicata@foreveryoungwny.com

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Andrea Rowley, Jean-Pierre Thimot Director of Marketing...................................................................... Brittany Frey

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Director of Advertising............................................................. Barbara E. Macks

bmacks@foreveryoungwny.com Special Projects Manager ......................................................... Marianne Potratz Senior Account Executives............. Wendy Burns, Bruce Halpern, Mary Beth Holly,

Caroline Kunze, Robin Kurss, Robin Lenhard,

Marianne Potratz, Betty Tata, Lori Teibel National Ad Director...................................................................... Terri Downey Spree Marketplace..................................................................... Louis J. Aguglia Administrative & Finance Director.......................................................................Michele Ferguson Administrative & Marketing Coordinator...............................................................Angela Dowdell Classifieds Sales............................................................................... Robin Kurss BUFFALO SPREE PUBLISHING, INC.

President & CEO....................................................................... Sharon C. Levite Publisher/Chief Revenue Officer............................................... Barbara E. Macks Associate Publisher/Editor-In-Chief............................................... Elizabeth Licata Senior Vice President/Creative Director...................................... Chastity L. O’Shei Vice President/Director of Production.............................................. Jennifer Tudor Vice President/Administrative & Finance.....................................Michele Ferguson Corporate Counsel....................................................... Timothy M. O’Mara, Esq. Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2018 by Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. 1738 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 103, Buffalo, NY 14207 and is open Mon.–Fri. 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. The entire contents of Forever Young are copyrighted 2018 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. Standard mail postage paid at Buffalo, NY 14207. POSTMASTER send change of address to Forever Young, 1738 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 103, Buffalo, NY 14207. Manuscripts and free calendar listings should be sent to the editor (wswearingen@foreveryoungwny.com) at 1738 Elmwood Avenue, Suite 103, Buffalo, NY 14207. 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.

2

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

From the Editor

This poem by William Henry Davies perfectly captures the sweet tilt from spring to summer in Western New York, particularly this year when spring was reluctant to let go of its chill grasp. It's cold and gray until, suddenly and gloriously, it's not.

All in June A week ago I had a fire To warm my feet, my hands and face; Cold winds, that never make a friend, Crept in and out of every place.

Today the fields are rich in grass, And buttercups in thousands grow; I'll show the world where I have been– With gold-dust seen on either shoe.

Till to my garden back I come, Where bumble-bees for hours and hours Sit on their soft, fat, velvet bums, To wriggle out of hollow flowers.

We hope you enjoy this June in WNY and appreciate the warmth and sunshine while it lingers.

Wendy Guild Swearingen wswearingen@foreveryoungwny.com 783-9119 ext. 2253

1+ Erie County STAY FIT

FOREVER YOUNG JUNE CALENDAR

DINING PROGRAM offers a hot noon meal at 45 locations in Erie County. Menus and site list at erie.gov/ stayfit or 858-7639.

1+ Gowanda HEALTH

COMMUNITY ALLIANCE Activities open to the public age 50+, (no residency requirements) , Concord Senior Center, 1 School Street, Gowanda; for schedule visit communityalliance.org; 5321010, or beemana@hcanetwork.org

1+

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+, have a minimum of 15 hours per week to give and want to make a difference, contact Nora Aloian (SCP) at 285-8224 ext. 217or Jennifer Britton (FGP) at 285-8224 ext. 228

1+ PEOPLE, INC. OMBUDSMAN

Phone screenings in progress to become ombudsman volunteer to advocate for seniors in long-term care facilities. To be screened and to learn more about becoming an ombudsman volunteer, call 817-9222.

2+

Lockport T.O.P.S. 9259, Meets every Saturday morning @ 8:30 for weighin and 9am to 10am for weekly meetings, Christ Episcopal church 7145 Fieldcrest Dr., Lockport. Offers tools, programs, support and friendship for healthy living and weight management. Contac: Wendy, 200-2618 or Mary, 433-1693

3+

Buffalo MEDITATION, 2:30 p.m., El Buen Amigo, 114 Elmwood Ave. Free every Sunday. Meditation unites with creative arts and pain management.

Practitioner Sondra Holland welcomes people of all ages. Wear comfortable clothes. For information, Sondra: 9475092; store: 885-6343

4+

Tonawanda TONAWANDA TOPS CLUB #50 Weekly meetings on Mondays, weigh-in 6pm/meeting starts at 6:25pm, Zion United Church Koenig & Parker Tonawanda; 912-6875

5+

Farnham T.O.P.S. CLUB weekly meetings held Tuesdays at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 10633 Church St., starting at 9 a.m. Call 934-9619.

6

class. All levels welcome beginner experienced. Tuesdays 8 p.m. Church of the Advent, 54 Delaware Rd., Kenmore $5 suggested donation. 481-5735

Amherst FREE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Trinity Old Lutheran Church 3445 Sheridan Drive. First Wednesday of the month, for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or any form of dementia. A morning snack and nutritious lunch are provided. For more information on registering for the program, call 836-4868

5+

6+ Boston HATHA YOGA

5+

Kenmore UKULELE SING ALONG Ukuleles provided during

Tonawanda T.O.P.S. CLUB, weekly meetings on Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Claremont Avenue. For information, call 834-7992

5+

Buffalo TAI CHI: MOVING FOR BETTER BALANCE 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday, Tosh Collins Senior Center, 35 Cazenovia St. For more information, contact monicazucco@ gmail.com.

5+, 7+

Tonawanda UKULELE SING ALONG Ukuleles provided during class. All levels welcome beginner–experienced Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. and Thursdays 1:30 p.m.

Brighton Place Library 999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda. Call to register 332-4375 $5 suggested donation

Wednesdays at 7 pm. Gentle and meditative. Bring your own mat. Faith United Church of Christ, 8651 Boston State Road, Boston, NY. For more info call church office 716-941-3529

6 Williamsville WOMEN’S

LYMPHEDEMA SUPPORT GROUP 5:45 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month. Sheridan Surgical room, 4510 Bailey Ave., Williamsville. Call 908-4149

6+ Orchard Park

TAI CHI

Advanced Tai Chi in the Park at Brush Mountain. Classes are held on

Wednesdays at 11 am. Tai Chi builds endurance, increases flexibility and balance. New students are welcome.

Please contact the Orchard Park Senior Center at 662-6452 for information.

Cost $30 for a 8 week session.

7 Amherst WNY FIBROMYALGIA

AND CHRONIC FATIGUE SUPPORT GROUP meets at the John James Audubon Library on the 1st Thursday of the month from 7-8:45 p.m. in Room 1. All sufferers and cargivers welcome. Discuss coping skills and new ways we can improve.

Facebook egroup: WNY Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, and Chronic Fatigue.

Library: 689-4922

7+ Buffalo T.O.P.S. CLUB Successful

weight management combines support, healthy eating, regular exercise, and wellness information.

Every Thursday, 5:30-7 pm, Norwest Buffalo Community Center, 155 Lawn Avenue, Buffalo. Contact Rose at 8841425 for further information.

5+

Niagara Falls T.O.P.S. CLUB, Enjoy light sitting and standing yoga at 5:30 p.m. before weigh in 6 p.m., and a brief interactive educational program at 7 p.m. Facebook: TOPS #173 Niagara Falls, NY, or call 550-1232. Meets Tuesdays at Riverside Presbyterian Church, 815 - 84th St., Niagara Falls

5, 16 WNY RESPITE SERVICES

for those with Alzheimer’s and related dementia on first Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. in Williamsville, and third Saturday, 11 a.m. in Amherst. Location info: (800) 272-3900.

5, 19 Buffalo HEADWAY

SUPPORT GROUPS, 2635 Delaware Ave. For individuals who have sustained brain injuries as well as their families and caregivers; exchange information and resources, and find mutual support and encouragement. Peer Support (Suite B), first and third Tuesday, 6:30–8 p.m.; Caregivers Support (Suite B), first Tuesday, 6:30–8 p.m.; Women’s Survivors Support (Suite E), first Tuesday, 1–2:30 p.m. Info: 408-3100 or headwayofwny.org

June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 3

FOREVER YOUNG JUNE CALENDAR 7+Tonawanda

LAUGHTER YOGA Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Thursdays 11 a.m.

Brighton Place Library, 999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda. FREE

7+

Cheektowaga T.O.P.S. MEETING, Thursdays at 9 a.m., St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 900 Maryvale Dr. (corner of Union Road). Come for the love, support and friendship. For information, call Karen at 247-2334

7+

Buffalo GENTLE YOGA, 11 a.m. Thursdays, Tosh Collins Senior Center, 35 Cazenovia St. Bring a yoga mat. Info: 828-1093

7+

Akron T.O.P.S. CLUB Every Thursday, 5:30-6:45pm, at the Akron/ Newstead Senior Center, 5691 Cummings Rd. We offer tools, programs, support, fellowship and recognition for healthy living and weight management.

For information call Diane 542-4980

10

East Aurora GOING CLEAR This award-winning documentary takes a fascinating look behind the Church of Scientology, and reveals alleged abuses and strange practices within the mysterious religion. $6 members, $8 nonmembers. 4 p.m., Roycroft Film Society, Parkdale School Auditorium, 141 Girard Ave., East Aurora; roycroftcampuscorp. com

12

Hamburg ALZHEIMER’S CARE-GIVER SUPPORT GROUP for males at Wesleyan Church, 4999 McKinley Pkwy. 2nd Tues. 626-0600, alz.org/wnyc

12

Orchard Park ALIENATED GRANDPARENTS ANONYMOUS, INC., meetings 1 p.m. the second Tuesday of month, 4295 S. Buffalo St.

12

Depew BREAST CANCER NETWORK OF WNY Monthly meeting second Tuesday, 6 p.m., Bella Moglie Bldg., 3297 Walden Ave. Call 7060060 or visit bcnwny.org. Professional support group will be held at 8 pm

13

Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT GROUPS: General Support Group is second Wednesday, 3 p.m. at Harris Hill Nursing Facility, 2699 Wehrle Dr., Williamsville; 4

Daughters’ Support Group, 5 p.m.

Monthly support groups coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. For more information, call 632-3700 or visit mcguiregroup. com

15 Akron HEARTS AND HANDS

Seeks volunteers to support caregivers of loved ones with early stages of dementia by providing an engaging, safe, and friendly environment to leave their loved one while taking care of their own medical, social, and emotional needs. Wright Center, 11 Church Street, Village of Akron the third Friday each month from 1–4:30 p.m. Contact Eugene Abrahamson at 406-8311 ext. 102, e-mail volunteer@ heartsandhandsfia.org or hnhcares.org

19

Buffalo LGBTQ MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVERS PROGRAM: The Pride Center of Western New York offers the LGBTQ Memory Loss Caregivers Program providing support and education for people providing care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. Third Tuesday each month at 5:30 p.m., Pride Center, 200 South Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, 852-7743 or pridecenterwny.org

16

West Seneca RED, WHITE, & BREWS Clarence Citizens for Veterans presents this benefit for local homeless and wounded veterans on at the Clarence Main Street Town Park Pavilion. Local craft beers, wine, burgers, a basket raffle and live much by the Informers 5–10pm $10, must be 21 years of age or over. Contact: Kathie McGinley at 759-8852.

11

Amherst WNY NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI) 12-week Familyto-Family class is forming for June in Amherst. This class helps families be effective advocates for a loved one who lives with serious mental illness.

Classes begin on Monday, June 11, 5:45-8:15pm for 12 consecutive Mondays. Participants need to make every effort to attend all 12 sessions.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4007 Main St., Amherst.

15

Niagara Falls NIAGARA FALLS SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB,

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

An active 50+ crowd, dances third Friday each month at 7 p.m. at the Buff Social Club, 2565 Young St., NF. $6 ($4 members). Monthly activities include picnics, parties. Door prizes, 50/50 raffle. Info: 439-8387

20

East Aurora BASKET RAFFLE St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 53 West Falls Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m., numbers called at 7 p.m. Free beverages and desserts; roast beef sandwiches for sale. Kitchen proceeds benefit FISH of East Aurora

21-22

Blasdell, TEN LIVES CLUB GARAGE SALE June 21, 11am–4 pm and June 22, 11am–3pm at 3741 Lakeshore Rd. in Blasdell.

Items include holiday decorations,

kitchen items, knick knacks, jewelry, appliances, dog and cat treats, and much more! Garage sale donations accepted through June 15 at the Main Shelter on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 10am–5pm. Tax-deductible receipts provided. Contact: 646-5577 or email tenlivesclubmarketing@gmail. com.

23

Williamsville CTEN LIVES CLUB PET EXPO “Cause for the Paws” at The Williamsville Depot, 86 S. Long St., 10am–3pm. Cats, dogs and small critters are looking for their forever home. Contact: tenlivesclubmarketing@gmail.com or call 646-5577

DANCE CALENDAR MONDAYS W. Seneca BALLROOM DANCING

BY CAROL is a 6-week class @ St. David’s Church, 3951 Seneca St. 7:30–9:30 p.m. Info: 824-0504.

Sloan CLOGGING LESSONS by Kickin’ Rhythm Cloggers, 6:30 p.m. @ St. Andrew’s Parish Hall, 111 Crocker St., Bldg. 1. kickinrhythmcloggers.com, (585) 457-4455.

Buffalo HUSTLE FOR HEALTH URBAN LINE DANCING with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St, Buffalo. 12pm - 1pm. FREE for ages 55+ Call 716 832 1010 TUESDAYS Buffalo LINDY FIX 8–10 p.m. @ Polish Cadets Hall, 927 Grant St. lindyfix.com, swingbuffalo.com.

WEDNESDAYS N. Ton. DANCING WITH DOTTIE AND FRIENDS country-style line lessons, 7:30 p.m. @ Pendleton Center Meth. Church, 6864 Campbell Blvd. 688-6026 or 625-8306.

Buffalo HUSTLE FOR HEALTH URBAN LINE DANCING with Phyllis Caver at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St, Buffalo. 11am- 12pm. FREE for ages 55+ Call 716 832 1010 Amherst AMHERST VICTORIAN DANCE SOCIETY Authentic music, dress and dance of Queen Victoria's time. New members and guests welcomed! 1st Wednesdays @ Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village in

Amherst & 4th Wednesdays @ VFW Post in Village of Williamsville. 7:00 p.m. Info: Geraldine, 877-0222 or amherstvictoriandance.org THURSDAYS Kenmore JACKIE’S THURSDAY NIGHT DANCES @ Brounshidle Post, 3354 Delaware Ave. Lessons: 7 p.m. Open dancing: 8 p.m. 691-8654.

Ongoing WNY BELLYDANCE CLASSES 560-1891, nadiaibrahim.com.

Kenmore JACKIE’S DANCE Monthly dance. Call691-8654 fordetails.

WNY BALLROOM SOCIAL DANCE, Argentine tango and belly dance instruction with Carol Allen; N. Collins and Amherst. 337-3092 or callen8801@aol.com.

West Seneca BALLROOM DANCE classes @ 1761 Orchard Park Rd., 7713110, ballroomiliana.com.

WNY DANCE W/ ERIN BAHN 9977190 or erinbahn.com.

ARGENTINE TANGO IN BUFFALO Dancing & Classes. traviswidricktango.com. Contact Travis @ 517-7047 SATURDAYS Buffalo HUSTLE FOR HEALTH URBAN LINE DANCING at East Community High School 820 Northampton St, Buffalo. 11:30am 12:30pm. FREE for all ages. Free Lunch.

Www.HustleforHealth.com

CROSSWORD 10. Beehive State 11. Not Sunni 12. ____ Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II 15. Bull opponent 20. Prepared 22. Marching insect?

24. Challenger or Atlantis 25. *Co-founder of eponymous treatment facility 26. Dig, so to speak 27. Birth-related 29. *#21 Across' spouse supposedly chopped one down 31. Final notice?

32. Southwestern hut 33. Soap plant

SPONSORED BY

THEME: FIRST LADIES ACROSS 1. Domicile 6. Anatomical pouch 9. Be quiet!

13. Rn, a health hazard 14. "I" mania 15. Tax of one tenth 16. "____ Last Night," movie 17. Dream time 18. Euphoric way to walk 19. *She raised a future President 21. *First First Lady 23. 20-20, e.g.

24. Marked by sound judgement 25. Say "no" 28. Strip of wood 30. War over Helen 35. Cheese from Netherlands 37. Ringo Starr's instrument 39. *She planted a vegetable garden in South Lawn 40. Kind of bag 41. Bigfoot's cousins 43. Computer desktop picture 44. Type of fishing net 46. ____-a-sketch 47. After-bath powder

34. *Founder of "Just Say No" campaign 36. Whimper 38. Muscovite or biotite 42. Woody perennial 45. Subdued 49. Yellow river tributary 51. Whistler Blackcomb visitors 54. Right-hand page 56. Wading bird 57. Opposite of cheer 58. Cantatrice's offering 59. C in NYC 60. Mom's sister 61. Top notch 62. Brainchild 63. Raunchy 64. Put together 66. *Most-traveled First Lady, pre-Hillary

48. Cowardly color 50. "____ and the Real Girl," movie 52. Bovine hangout 53. Used to be 55. Tiny guitar 57. *Pillbox hat fashion icon 60. *She also raised a future President 64. Bird of prey nest 65. PC brain 67. Wear away 68. Supernatural being 69. Beachgoer's goal 70. Extend subscription 71. Freight horse cart 72. Giant Hall-of-Famer 73. Lieu DOWN 1. Speedy steed 2. Ali ____ of "One Thousand and One Nights" 3. Air-transported property 4. Skeptic's MO 5. Have as logical consequence 6. "Que ____," sang Doris Day 7. *First lady Frances Folsom Cleveland had the lowest one 8. Oxford ____ 9. Help to solve a riddle

Because memory disorders result from a wide range of causes, accurate diagnosis is extremely helpful.

Our knowledgeable and caring staff at DENT are here to support patients and their families affected with this challenging disorder.

If you feel you or someone you know is suffering from a memory disorder, let our specialized team assist in helping diagnose, treat and offer resources to cope with daily activities and quality of life issues.

Amherst • Batavia • Orchard Park (716)250-2000 • www.dentinstitute.com

The solution for this month’s puzzle can be found on page 28.

June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 5

HOME & GARDEN

Bark as Mulch?

BY CAROL ANN HARLOS

A

great many people are confused regarding using bark as mulch in their gardens.

It’s good! It’s bad! It provides nutrition for your plants. It eats up nitrogen making it unavailable to your plants. What’s the story?

CAROL ANN HARLOS

First, let’s take a look at mulch. What is it and does your garden need it? In nature (but usually not in gardens) you seldom see bare soil because plant material breaks off and falls to the ground where it slowly decays and becomes part of the soil. This includes seeds, leaves, and all sorts of plant debris. Gardeners frequently disturb soil and often treat these natural materials like garbage. They remove these materials. This leads to loss of nutrients and moisture to the soil.

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

Mulch is any material that is placed on top of the soil to improve the soil texture and health, to keep in moisture, and to prevent the growth of weeds. I believe that the use of mulch is a very personal one. Mulch can be compost, peat moss, leaves, or wood products.

This column focuses on wood products because people have so many questions regarding their use.

If you examine the material used by nurseries in the containers holding plants you buy, you will see that bark is frequently the major ingredient.

This is because bark is cheap, improves drainage, and helps the container stand more erect. But, all bark mixes are not created equal.

Bark can be fresh, aged, or composted.

It is fresh bark that contains phenolic compounds that may slow down the growth of plants. If fresh bark is added to a mix, its decomposition uses up the nitrogen. For the plant to succeed in such a situation, the gardener must add a source of nitrogen.

If bark is processed (aged) the phenolic compounds get a chance to break down. This makes nitrogen more available to plants grown in that medium.

How is bark aged? The trees are debarked and hammer-milled to a particle size appropriate for that bark.

The bark is then piled up and allowed to age for up to a year.

If the bark is to be used in compost, nitrogen is added to the pile of bark. The pile is monitored for its water content. The pile is turned to encourage aerobic (using oxygen) rather than

anaerobic (no oxygen) decomposition.

The decomposition also produces heat (as anyone who composts knows), which kills unfavorable microorganisms and also breaks down any contaminants.

Another consideration is the type of wood used. Hardwoods (maple, oak, cherry) usually contain toxic substances and break down very quickly. Hardwoods also use a lot of nitrogen to decompose. Bark from softwoods (spruce, cypress, cedar) contain a lesser amount of toxic substances and use less nitrogen to decompose. FYI: pine is the most commonly used tree for mixes.

Wood or bark chip mulches can be used around trees, shrubs, perennials, and small fruits. Wood/bark chip mulch creates an environment for earthworms and soil microorganisms.

It reduces soil compaction and the need for extra watering.

When placed on top of soil, wood/ bark chips do not tie-up soil nitrogen.

However, mixing wood/bark chips into a soil can create a nitrogen deficiency due to a carbon-to-nitrogen imbalance.

I am not a user of wood chips for mulch, but you certainly can be. Just promise Carol Ann that you will not use dyed bark. It ain’t natural looking!

The informed gardener can find the right mulch for the right garden or container. Now you know. FY Thank you for all your emails! I look forward to hearing from you: caharlos@ verizon.net OR herbgardener.net.

LET’S TALK ABOUT...

Retying the Knot

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

J

une has long been considered the most popular month for weddings. To anyone celebrating an anniversary this month, congratulations!

My parents were married June 1,1946. It was a whirlwind romance.

My father proposed on their second date the previous September. He wasn’t exactly romantic. He announced he was turning thirty, did not want to “fool around,” and wanted an answer. Something must have clicked.

Alphonse and Harriet Rucki were married for fifty-five years until he passed away.

My mother always wanted a fiftieth wedding anniversary party preceded by a church service where she and my father would renew their vows. Indeed, they had a lovely service at the church where they had been married.

As they were walking out of the church, my mother asked my father if he could have a do-over, would he marry her again. He replied, “I just did.

What else do you want?”

Ah, romance.

For couples celebrating a major anniversary, or just looking to revisit their special day, renewing your vows could be a great way to show your love and commitment. It might even be a precursor to taking a second honeymoon.

The happy couple, their children, or even the original maid of honor and best man can host renewal ceremonies.

The venue could be a place of worship, your home, a garden, a beach, or anywhere that has sentimental meaning. A clergyperson, friend, or a family member can perform the ceremony.

Invite whomever you want, and feel free to dress up. Wedding dress still fit?

Go for it! If that doesn’t work, consider wearing a piece of jewelry your spouse gave to you.

Some couples choose to have their children and grandchildren walk down

the aisle with them. Others may want to have as many members of their original bridal party escort them. There are no formal rules; do whatever makes you happy.

You may want to write new vows to reflect the life you have spent together.

Some couples may decide to get new rings, or have stones reset. As one friend put it, “New ring, same husband.”

It’s up to you if you want to have a party afterward. Consider bringing along your wedding album for a trip down memory lane. Hire a photographer to capture the event.

It doesn’t matter if you do something very traditional or choose a style that reflects who you are today. It’s all about expressing your love and remembering the life you’ve shared.

Perhaps this is the time to take a second honeymoon. In some cases, like my parents, there may not have been a first honeymoon. My father announced that he had seen enough of the world while stationed overseas during WWII and did not want to travel anywhere.

That said, you might have more time and money at this stage to travel.

Many couples feel that getting away

from home and traveling together is a great way to reconnect and strengthen their bonds.

Your first honeymoon may have been grand, but second honeymoons tend to reflect more mature tastes. While some couples may want to return to wherever they honeymooned in the first place, others may want to make a grand gesture. This could be the time to take a fancy cruise or travel abroad.

Put your heads together and decide if you want a second honeymoon that is all about relaxation and luxury, or if you want to turn it into more of an adventure.

You may want to take an African safari (see page 22), hike an Incan trail, or explore the pyramids. If not now, when?

Get creative. You can go to a fancy restaurant or for a couple’s spa day right here in town. But, how often can you go for a hot air balloon ride over the desert or horseback riding on the beach? Try for a unique, first-time experience you both will enjoy.

This is your time to reconnect. You may have spent much of your married life managing careers, raising children, and babysitting grandchildren. Take the opportunity to unwind and see each other in a role other than spouse or grandparent.

What happens after you’ve renewed your vows and/or taken a second honeymoon? Start planning your next getaway, even if it’s just a few hours together at a movie or concert.

The important thing is to keep communicating. You don’t want to allow your feelings to cool off; make sure you invest in your marriage.

Take a look at your spouse and remember all the good reasons that first made you fall in love. Now go rekindle those feelings! FY Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer. Readers may contact her via the editor at wswearingen@buffalospree.com with ideas for making the golden years sparkle, sizzle, and shine.

June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 7

ARTS

Summer Outdoor Music

BY RICK FALKOWSKI

Wednesday on the Canal at Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Park Photo by Bob Blazina

I

n Western New York, we experience all four seasons, and people enjoy each one for its unique qualities. During the summer, many outdoor activities are scheduled. In WNY, we try to pack a full year of events into the months of June, July, and August. There is something to do almost every day of the summer. The hard part is deciding which events to attend.

During the 1950s to 1970s, the outdoor events were primarily church lawn fetes, fireman’s picnics, and special town celebrations. At these events, you would find ethnic bands,

8

food vendors, beer tents, amusement park rides, carnival games, and gambling tents. Many lawn fetes continue today with oldies or classic rock bands, beer tents, 5K or 10K runs

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

or walks, car shows, bounce houses, and face painting, along with other activities.

Beginning in 1987, Thursday at the Square expanded upon the lawn

fete concept by offering concerts in Lafayette Square in Downtown Buffalo. It began as a casual showcase of local talent and progressed to concerts featuring both national and local acts, catering primarily to the Baby Boomer generation. Over time, the event began offering an eclectic lineup of artists, covering all styles of music and, in 2011, it moved to the Central Wharf at Canalside. The fete now caters to all age groups and offers diverse activities almost every day of the summer.

The Thursday in the Square concept of live bands once a week, with concert style PA systems, food, and beverages was replicated by other locations.

Tonawanda’s Gateway Park, which is now the western terminus of the Erie Canal, started Wednesday on the Canal in 2002. This event features two bands every week, retaining the early Thursday at the Square local music format. Molson’s Canal Concerts Series provided a national band, with local opening bands, every Saturday at Gateway Park. That event moved to Friday nights in Lockport in 2008, back to North Tonawanda’s Gratwick Park in 2013, and last year to Batavia Downs.

Artpark began offering free Tuesday in the Park national band concerts in 2003. The size of the crowds at Artpark continued to grow and production costs continued to increase, so Artpark began charging a nominal fee to enter the events in 2011. Canalside and Batavia Downs have also instituted a low-price admission policy, but the costs are minimal compared to regular concert ticket prices. Some special events like the Erie County Fair, Italian Festival, Irish Festival, and Greek Festival also have an admission fee.

The longest running free concert series is not an evening concert, but the noon time shows presented by M&T Bank. These daily downtown shows on the steps at One M&T Plaza began in 1970. Some of the town concert events also go back several decades, but these shows may not include concert style production, and alcohol is usually not served.

Following are several large scale weekly outdoor events:

ARTS Thursday Canalside Concert Series, Inner Harbor Central Wharf on the Buffalo waterfront Dunkirk City Pier, Central Avenue in Dunkirk Food Truck Thursdays, Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney Street in Tonawanda Friday Rockin’ the Downs, Batavia Downs, 8315 Park Road in Batavia A crowd attends Wednesday on the Canal at Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Park. Photo by Rick Falkowski

Monday Music Mania Mondays, Town of Niagara Veterans Memorial Park, 7000 Lockport Road Tuesday Tuesday in the Park, Artpark in Lewiston Food Truck Tuesdays, Larkinville, 745 Seneca Street in Buffalo

Wednesday Wednesday on the Canal, Gateway Harbor Park, Sweeney St. in North Tonawanda Live at Larkin, Larkinville, 745 Seneca Street in Buffalo River Fest Park, 249 Ohio Street in Buffalo

Concerts also take place on a regular basis at town parks in Orchard Park, Amherst, East Aurora, Williamsville, Boston, West Seneca, Cheektowaga, Hamburg, Blasdell, Lewiston, Youngstown, and other municipalities.

In addition, there are various Food Truck Nights, Car Cruises with live music, and many restaurant/bars feature outdoor bands.

On weekends, there are numerous lawn fetes, ethnic festivals or music festivals; special events like Taste of

Buffalo, Elmwood Art Festival, Old Home Days or Juneteenth; weeklong events like Canal Fest and county fairs; and concerts on the floating stage on Lake Chautauqua in Bemus Point.

Almost all these events feature music for the Baby Boom Generation, with bands playing ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s music, so check web page guides like buffalospree.com, stepoutbuffalo.com, buffalonews.com/event and others for more info and who is performing. A guide just listing outdoor shows is at bestofWNY.com/concerts_festivals.

In addition to events that feature live music, there are many other outdoor activities in the WNY area taking place all summer long. You can only blame yourself if you say you have nothing to do in Buffalo during the summer. Enjoy the good weather and great music. FY Rick Falkowski is author of History of Buffalo Music & Entertainment and is cofounder of The Buffalo Music Hall of Fame. Send questions or comments to info@buffalomusichistory.com

June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 9

ARTS

Summer Movie Preview Dinosaurs, drug wars, and Mr. Rogers

BY CHRISTOPHER SCHOBERT

T

he 2018 summer movie season began—seriously—in April, with the release of the mighty Avengers: Infinity War. That means from now through the end of August, local cinemas will be filled with blockbusters, kid flicks, and independent films.

In addition to Avengers, a number of major films have already opened, including Solo: A Star Wars Story and Incredibles 2. Here is a breakdown of what’s on tap for summer 2018.

(Opening dates are subject to change.)

The biggies Ocean’s 8: This all-female followup to the Ocean’s 11 heist films could not feature a more enticing cast: Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Rihanna, and Helena Bonham Carter. (June 8) Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom: Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard return in the sequel to Jurassic World.

Fallen Kingdom’s dinosaur rescue storyline could mean this is a bit darker than the previous films in the series.

(June 22) Ant-Man and the Wasp: Paul Rudd’s Marvel superhero, Ant-Man, sat out Infinity War. Buthe’s back this July, joined by the Wasp, played by Lost’s Evangeline Lilly. (July 6) Mission: Impossible—Fallout: The trailer for the sixth film in the Mission: Impossible franchise boasts one of the most thrilling trailers of the year. As usual, Tom Cruise leads a team of agents and pulls of some heartpounding stunts. (July 27) See it, then discuss it Won’t You Be My Neighbor?: This acclaimed documentary explores the life of the iconic children’s television host Fred Rogers, better known as Mr. Rogers. (June 8) First Reformed: The great screenwriter (Taxi Driver) and director 10

Saoirse Ronan and Billy Howle star in On Chesil Beach. Photo courtesy of Bleecker Street

(American Gigolo) Paul Schrader directs this compelling drama starring Ethan Hawke as a military chaplain grieving over the death of his son. (June 22) Scotty and the Secret History of Hollywood: Scotty Bowers’s story as a sexual procurer to the stars is utterly fascinating. He tells all in this explosive documentary based on his memoir.

(July 27) Sicario: Day of the Soldado: The 2015 film Sicario was an intense study of the US-Mexico drug war. Two of that film’s most memorable characters, played by Benicio del Toro and Josh Brolin, return for this sequel. (June 29) For date night Book Club: The plot might sound like a yawner—four friends see their lives change after reading 50 Shades of Grey—but look at this amazing cast: Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

Bergen, and Mary Steenburgen.

(Opened on May 18) On Chesil Beach: Fresh from her acclaimed performance in Lady Bird, Saoirse Ronan stars in an adaptation of Ian McEwan’s novel. The story of a young couple’s wedding night is set in 1962 England. (Opened on May 18) Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again: Meryl Streep, Cher, Pierce Brosnan and the music of ABBA? Yes, it’s a sequel to the 2008 musical smash Mamma Mia. (July 20) The Spy Who Dumped Me: The story of Spy—best friends become entangled in an international conspiracy—does not sound too enticing. However, it stars two of the more likable young stars in filmdom, Mila Kunis and Kate McKinnon.

(August 3)

For the grandkids Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation: If you have Netflix and grandkids, it’s likely you’ve watched animated hit Hotel Transylvania 2.

The clever series featuring the voice of Adam Sandler as Dracula returns with a new location: a luxury cruise ship for monsters. (July 13) Teen Titans Go! To the Movies: The popular cartoon series featuring teenage DC superheroes like Robin and Cyborg moves to the big screen. (July 27) Christopher Robin: Ewan McGregor plays the adult Christopher Robin—yes, that Christopher Robin— in this family film that sees childhood friend Winnie-the-Pooh return to his life. (August 3) FY Christopher Schobert is a film critic for a number of outlets, and writes a monthly film screenings column for Buffalo Spree.

ARTS

Art from the Heart

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

A

t long last warm weather is here, bringing with it enough art shows, festivals, and concerts to keep us entertained all summer long.

This year something new has been added. The artists of Yad B’Yad are partnering with the JCC Cultural Arts to present their first art exhibit, Art from the Heart.

Yad B’Yad is a program of the Bureau of Jewish Education of Greater Buffalo. Hebrew for “Hand in Hand,” Yad B’Yad provides outreach, advocacy and program support that assists people with disabilities to achieve full participation in the Jewish and Buffalo communities.

The mixed media art exhibit, which opened May 15, runs through June 29 at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo in the Bunis Family Art Gallery at 2640 North Forest Road in Amherst.

Cindi Mikulik, director of Yad B’Yad, says, “The Art from the Heart exhibit gives our artists a wonderful opportunity to share their talents with the community while raising awareness of their special abilities. Working with the JCC Cultural Arts has been very exciting for us. We look forward to collaborating on more projects in the near future.”

The exhibition, which includes framed drawings, paintings, and more, features the artistic talents and accomplishments of Daniel Rodgers, Jeremy Pratt, Liz Skerker, Sarah Doueck, and Rick Grear.

Artist Liz Skerker says, “I enjoy working as an artist while attending Aspire’s iExpress art program at the Tri -Main Building. I have participated in this program for about ten years and have had the opportunity to work with many instructors during that time.

“I recently painted my brother’s dog, Ozzie. The finished painting made me feel happy, which is how I like people to feel when they view my work. I want them to feel better about art and to feel good, inside and out!”

Artist Sarah Doueck says, “I started making art in grammar school. I now make art when I am at Aspire Co-Op. I like to make art because it makes me feel good. I like to use paints, watercolors, and clay, and my favorite color is yellow.

“My favorite type of art to look at is 3D art from the sixties. I make art because I want people to feel very good inside when they see all of my work.”

Katie Wzontek, cultural arts director at the JCC, curates the gallery. She believes that art has no limitations. “Art allows us to celebrate our differences and explore our similarities with each other,” she says.

“It is one of the best media for inclusion, and we believe that all persons, regardless of their abilities, should have equal opportunities to

Artist Liz Skerker at work Photo by Cindi Mikulik

express their talents and to be successful in the arts.”

She adds, “We are proud to have the opportunity to partner with Yad B’Yad and share these truly talented artists with the community.”

Gallery admission is free. The gallery is open during JCC business hours, including Monday through Thursday from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday from 5:30 a.m. through 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. through 6 p.m. For more information, visit jccbuffalo.org.

Yad B’Yad programs are designed to be inclusive experiences. Most of the programs are centered around events already happening in the community. There is a gathering one to two times per month, generally on Sundays, for a few hours of fun, social activities. Yad B’Yad participants represent all races and faiths, and everyone is welcome. For more information, visit yadbyad.org

There’s always something happening at

For Independent Seniors

Maintenance Free Apartments and Patio Homes Make Our Neighborhood Your Neighborhood!

iXpress is an expressive arts program for people with development disabilities. Painting and sculpting are just two of the many artistic expressions offered.

Some participants use adaptive artistic equipment, including adapted paintbrushes and helmets equipped with a paintbrush or other adaptive techniques. For more information on iXpress Art Program, please call 8380047.

Aspire’s mission is to support children and adults with developmental and similar disabilities, helping them to live their lives to the fullest by providing individualized assistance based on personal choices.

For more information, phone 4076837 or visit info@aspirewny.org. FY Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer.

Walk for Alzheimer’s Fundraiser Thursday 6/21, 11:15 a.m.

Picnic Lunch and Entertainment by Friends of Harmony Minimum donation of $10

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Call For a Tour | 716.741.7741 | 5945 Vinecroft Drive | Clarence Center, NY 14032 | www.vinecroft.org June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 11

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar MONDAY AMERICAN LEGION #1322 STEPHEN SIKORA POST 950 Payne Ave., Nort Tonawanda 7:25 p.m......... 693-1740 CONGREGATION SHIR SHALOM 4660 Sheridan Dr., Williamsville 7:30 p.m......... 633-8877 AMERICAN LEGION MCKEEVER POST 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 822-6400 HOLY ANGELS @ POLISH CADETS 927 Grant St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 875-3211

885-3767 (church)

12

HOLY MOTHER OF THE ROSARY CATHEDRAL Fellowship Hall, 6298 Broadway, Lancaster 11:30 am......... 683-7527 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m......... 681-7231 VILLA MARIA COLLEGE 240 Pine Ridge Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m.............. 896-0700 AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:15 p.m.................... 875-9276 AM. LEG. POST NO. 567 3740 N. Buffalo Rd., O. Park 7:30 p.m......... 662-9780

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:40 p.m......... 836-0011 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 p.m.............. 549-4389 DOWNTOWN POST NO. 64 A.L. INC. 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.

VALLEY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION 93 Leddy, Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 823-4707 MATTHEW GLAB POST 1965 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7:30 p.m........ 825-3733 HAMBURG–KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg 7:30 p.m..649-9830/649-4340

TUESDAY AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13 25 Review Pl., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 874-0559 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 1 p.m.............. 876-1038 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m.............. 681-7231

(continued)

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m......... 873-6716 OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack, Lancaster 7 p.m.............. 683-6522 WHEATFIELD NO. 1451 6525 Ward Rd., Sanborn 7:25 p.m......... 731-4712 AMERICAN LEGION TONAWANDA NO. 264 60 Main St., Tonawanda 7:30 p.m......... 692-9785 GEORGE F. LAMM POST 962 Wehrle Dr., Williamsville 7:30 p.m......... 633-9242 RESURRECTION BINGO 130 Como Park Blvd.

7 p.m.............. 683-3712 JOSEPH HRICZKO VFW POST NO. 6245 29 Clemo St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 854-1000 HARTLAND VFC 8945 Ridge Rd., Hartland 7:30 p.m.

ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO. 4932 Clark St., Hamburg 7:30 p.m......... 649-9821 ST. STANISLAUS RCC 123 Townsend St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 849-4980

Bingo Calendar ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m......... 892-0425 OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CHURCH 115 O’Connell Avenue, Buffalo 7:30 p.m......... 852-2671 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 p.m......................... 549-4389 B.O.Y.S. ASSOCIATION OF LACKAWANNA VFW, 2909 South Park St., Lackawanna 7:20 p.m.................... 948-0316

(continued)

SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m.................... 681-7231 POLISH FALCONS 445 Columbia Ave., Depew 7:45 p.m.................... 684-2373 FATHER BAKER K OF C 2838 S. Park Ave., Lackawanna 12:45 p.m.................. 825-5150 LANCASTER K OF C 6114 Broadway, Lancaster 11:45 a.m................... 684-1905 RESCUE FIRE CO. NO. 5 1241 Strad, N. Tonawanda 7:30 p.m.................... 695-3923 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m.................. 549-4389 ST. ALOYSIUS RCC 156 Franklin, Springville 7:30 p.m.................... 592-2701 ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:40 p.m.................... 836-0011 ST. MICHAEL’S BINGO 140 Warsaw, Lackawanna 7:15 p.m.................... 825-9415

WEDNESDAY ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI 4263 St. Francis Dr., Athol Springs 7:30 p.m.................... 627-2710 SHAWNEE VOL. FIRE COMPANY 3747 Lockport Rd., Sanborn 7:30 p.m. .................. 731-3666 AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 822-6400 KENMORE K OF C 1530 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo 1 p.m......................... 875-5780 POLISH CADETS CLUB 927 Grant St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 875-3211 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C —

THURSDAY FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m......................... 681-7231

LG R O MILLUNTEVE ER VO

AMVETS BINGO 600 Ward Rd., N. Tonawanda 8 p.m......................... 694-6290 BLESSED TRINITY 317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo 8 p.m......................... 833-0301 BUFFALO IRISH CENTER 245 Abbott Rd., Buffalo 7:45 p.m.................... 825-9535 ST. BERNARD’S CHURCH Clinton @ S. Ogden, Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 822-8856 PVT. LEONARD POST 2450 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga 7:15 p.m.................... 684-4371 ST. JAMES DEPEW 500 Terrace Blvd., Depew 7:30 p.m.................... 683-2746 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m.................... 873-6716 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 p.m......................... 549-4389 ST. CLARE’S 193 Elk St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 823-2358 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 7:20 p.m.................... 693-5470

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Bingo Calendar ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m.................... 873-6716 LAKE ERIE CLUB 3200 S. Park Ave., Lackawanna 7:15 p.m.................... 825-9870 DALE ASSOCIATION CENT. 33 Ontario St., Lockport 7 p.m......................... 433-1886 SOUTH BYRON VFC Rte. 237, South Byron 7:30 p.m........... 585-548-2611 SANBORN VFC 5811 Buffalo St., Sanborn 7:45 p.m.................... 731-4616 MILLGROVE VFC 11621 Genesee St., Alden 7:45 p.m.................... 937-7612 GASPORT CHEMICAL HOSE 8412 State St., Gasport 7:30 p.m.................... 772-7751 OUR LADY OF PERP. HELP 115 O’Connell St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 852-2671 ST. STANISLAUS RCC 123 Townsend St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 849-4980 ST. PHILIP THE APOSTLE 950 Lossen Rd., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m.................... 668-3344

NIAGARA FRONTIER AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst Street, Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 875-9276 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 O’BRIEN HALL Lafayette at Grant, Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 885-2469 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 876-1038 KENMORE K OF C 1530 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 875-5780 OUR LADY HELP OF CHRISTIANS 4125 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m.................... 634-3420 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 & 10:30 p.m........... 549-4389 ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA 157 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m.................... 833-1715 ST. KATHERINE DREXEL 122 Shiller St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 895-6813

(continued)

SATURDAY

SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1, 7, & 10:30 p.m...... 549-4389 ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m.................... 892-0425 PALLOTTINE FATHERS 3452 N. Falls Blvd., Wheatfield 7 p.m......................... 694-4313 SOUTH WILSON VFC 4193 Chestnut Rd., Wilson 7:30 p.m.................... 751-6079 CARDINAL O’HARA HIGH 39 O’Hara Rd., Tonawanda 7:30 p.m. 695-2600 ext. 326 CORPUS CHRISTI CHURCH 199 Clark St., Buffalo 2 p.m......................... 896-1050 OUR LADY OF BISTRICA 1619 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7:15 p.m.................... 822-0818 BUFFALO GAY BINGO/ AIDS PLUS FUND OF WNY Westminster Church, 724 Delaware Ave., Buffalo 7 p.m (2nd Sat.)......... 882-7840

ST. AMELIA’S RCC 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m......................... 836-0011 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 876-1038 BLESSED TRINITY 317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo 8 p.m......................... 833-0301 ST. JOHN XXIII 1 Arcade St., W. Seneca 7 p.m......................... 823-1090 CORPUS CHRISTI CLUB 165 Sears St., Buffalo 2 p.m......................... 892-0469 INFANT OF PRAGUE 921 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga 7:15 p.m.................... 634-3660 ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA 157 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga 1 p.m......................... 833-1715 VILLA MARIA COLLEGE 240 Pine Ridge Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m......................... 896-0700 LANCASTER ELKS 1478 33 Legion Parkway, Lancaster 1 p.m......................... 685-1478 OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack, Lancaster 7 p.m. (1st Sat.)........ 683-6522 O’HARA BOOSTER CLUB 39 O’Hara Rd., Tonawanda 7:30 p.m.. 695-2600 ext. 326

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14

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

For the past 20 years, the family owned and operated Angle Park Senior Apartment complex has offered both one and two bedroom apartments tailored specifically to the needs of an elderly population.

Conveniently located in the Town of Orchard Park at the corner of Angle Rd and Southwestern Blvd, Angle Park features generous kitchens equipped with modern appliances, wall-to-wall carpet, and offers special features like grab bars in the bathrooms and private television satellite service.

The complex boasts community rooms accessible from all apartments.

These social areas provide the opportunity for lounging, card playing and TV watching. They are available for resident group activities

and the large community room can be reserved for family events and special parties.

Laundry facilities are located on each floor, on-site supervision and maintenance is provided, and each tenant has a separate storage area easily accessible to their apartment.

A security entry system enables each resident audio and video contact with their guests before entering the complex.

The apartments’ location is accessible to all major points of interest in the Southtowns Community, just minutes from “Five Corners” in Orchard Park. Lighted parking and recreation areas provide a safe and comfortable setting.

Call today to visit one of our models! (716)675-2777.

Bingo Calendar ST. LEO THE GREAT 885 Sweet Home Rd., Amherst 2 p.m......................... 835-8905 OUR LADY OF THE SACRED HEART 3148 Abbott Rd., O. Park 2 p.m......................... 824-2935 KENMORE K OF C 1530 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 875-5780 ST. BERNARD’S CHURCH Clinton @ S. Ogden, Buffalo 7:30 p.m.................... 822-8856 OUR LADY HELP OF CHRISTIANS 4125 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m......................... 634-3420 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m.................. 549-4389 DELEVAN VFC N. Main St., Delevan 7 p.m......................... 492-1910 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7 p.m......................... 873-6716 OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack, Lancaster 7 p.m......................... 683-6522 CARDINAL O’HARA HIGH 39 O’Hara Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m....... 695-2600 ext. 326

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Timeless Music.

LOCKPORT ELKS LODGE 41

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6791 N. Canal Rd., Lockport 7 p.m......................... 434-2798 PVT. LEONARD POST 2450 Walden, Cheektowaga 7:15 p.m..................684-43710

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COVER

Long Distance Babcia Grandmother stays connected 4,000 miles away

BY DANIEL MEYER

I

t may not be common practice to associate a grandma with gadgets and gizmos, but, for one woman in Poland, today’s advanced technology allows her to communicate on a daily basis with her beloved granddaughter living thousands of miles away in Western New York.

Maintaining a relationship with someone from afar can be difficult, but the challenge of staying in touch can be conquered if there is a strong enough desire to learn how to navigate computer programs and comprehend how to properly use a smartphone.

Michael and Joanna Cerrone of Hamburg are determined to have their daughter Magda and Joanna’s mother in Poland know each other and form a unique relationship.

That focus has helped formulate a shared goal to adapt with the times and take advantage of technological advancements that allow for frequent communication despite obvious physical barriers.

“The most important thing for me is that my daughter and my mother talk and see each other on a regular basis,” says Joanna Cerrone. “We make sure we do that almost every single day, sometimes maybe four or five times a day. I value and treasure that. I know my mother does, and I know as Magda gets older she will grow to appreciate it as well.”

By using cell phones to access video chat programs such as FaceTime and Skype, the Cerrones can easily contact Joanna’s mother, Bozena Obst, who lives over 4,200 miles away in Ostrow Wielkopolski, a city located in central Poland. Their frequent conversations often include long stretches of interaction between grandmother and granddaughter, lively talks that include back-and-forth banter exclusively in Polish.

“My mother is sixty-eight years 16

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

Bozena Obst holds granddaughter Magda Cerrone. Photos courtesy of the Cerrone family

old and knows very little English,” explains Joanna. “Our desire is for Magda to learn how to speak and fully understand Polish. I’m very proud of where I’m from and I want Magda

to experience that, which is why, from my perspective, it’s important to help establish their relationship and maintain it by staying in touch throughout the day.”

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Magda, who turns three years old this month, enjoys speaking to her babcia in Poland. She has quickly grasped the basic fundamentals of the Polish language, which thrills her parents.

“We have committed as a family to embrace the language to maintain their relationship,” says Michael Cerrone. “Magda being bilingual is how she will maintain her connection to her grandmother.

As the father and the son-in-law, I am so pleased that they are able to bond and maintain regular communication. The familiarity of speaking sometimes several times each day allows them to bond even though they are several thousand miles apart. It’s really amazing to witness.”

Bozena Obst usually travels from Poland to the United States once a year for an extended visit, staying with the Cerrones for several weeks. Because of the familiarity she has with Magda, they avoid the awkward or clumsy interactions that can hamper many long-distance relationships.

“Because they know each other’s voices and faces, there is no hesitation whatsoever by Magda to embrace and openly engage with her grandma,” explains Joanna.

“They just pick up where they left off the last time they saw each other.

It’s incredible to see, and it wouldn’t be possible without my iPhone and

using FaceTime every single day.”

“Without the technology, it would be extremely difficult to maintain the incredible relationship that Magda and her grandmother have,” says Michael. “We are blessed and fortunate. It’s also allowed Magda to stay in touch and become familiar with her aunt, uncle, and cousins who also live in Poland.”

The advanced technology and the family’s commitment to take the time to stay connected means that the 4,236 mile distance between grandmother and granddaughter has become less of a burden.

“Magda and her grandma have a very close relationship. She is bilingual, and we have so many wonderful memories that we can instantly share even though my mother is so far away,” says Joanna.

“I believe we are truly fortunate and very blessed. Is it different? Of course it is. But I wouldn’t change it, because all of the different factors have allowed for the two of them to find love and great admiration for one another, which is what I think being a grandmother is all about.”

FY

Daniel Meyer is a freelance writer and contributor to Forever Young and Buffalo Spree.

June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 17

FEATURE only are children entertained, there is something for the adults, too. Below is a list of what we consider to be among the best playgrounds in WNY for grandparents, parents, or childcare providers to take their youngsters.

Slide into Summer Our WNY playground picks

BY ANTHONY CHABALA AND KEVIN GIBBONS The playground at Stiglmeier Park Photo courtesy of the Town of Cheektowaga

T

oday’s playgrounds are unrecognizable compared to those of yesteryear. What began as a simple sand garden where children played has evolved into expensive and elaborate feats of creative architecture.

The first recognizable playground appeared in Manchester, England, in 1859. When applied to today’s standards, the original playgrounds look more like torture devices than a safe place for children, but aesthetics and fun were not necessarily the central aim. Teaching both fairness and safety were the playground designers’ primary concerns. There were not many ladders

to climb, so the children had to exercise patience and order and stay in line. The ladder led to a long, flat plank (not a slide like nowadays), where users had to be extraordinarily careful, or they would get injured (prime example of the phrase “natural consequence”).

Fast forward almost 150 years.

Today, playgrounds are seen as tools to escape rules and order, not learn

them. However, within the seeming chaos of a playground, the skills of empathy, patience, and persistence can be fostered. But for the great Theodore Roosevelt and his dedication to getting children outdoors and funding parks and public places, playgrounds as we know them might never have been. Luckily, Western New York has incredible playgrounds where not

Charles Burchfield Nature and Art Center 2001 Union Road, West Seneca The Burchfield is undoubtedly the odds on favorite for a win-win with respect to all adults and children.

The play area is large, simple, and safe. There are slides (both open and enclosed), ladders, viewing areas, plus all the playground essentials. However, the fact that Burchfield’s gorgeous art is tastefully placed throughout the area truly helps tie the entire park together.

The large colored sticks beside the large, carved out cave-like structure are the most visually stimulating pieces in the area. When not on the playground, there are trails, built in art installations spread throughout the grounds, an amphitheater, tons of history, and plenty of shady benches when you feel ready to relax. One would be hard pressed to not enjoy his or her visit here.

Cayuga Heights 1780 Como Park Blvd., Depew Every once in a while a school playground simply gets it right. Cayuga Heights Elementary School in Depew did just that. Now, realize that one must wait until after school hours or weekends to visit a school playground,

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The boardwalk at Stiglmeier Park Photo by Anthony Chabala

FEATURE

The playground at the Charles Burchfield Nature and Art Center Photos by Anthony Chabala

but this is worth the wait! Here, the playground offers a large volcano, pirate ship, and other attractions for your child to climb up and slide down.

Seemingly, no expense was spared, and the money was spent wisely.

Stiglmeier Park 810 Losson Rd., Cheektowaga According to one grandparent who preferred to go unnamed, “Stiglmeier Park is the best kept secret in the area.

I joke with people that it’s the jewel of Cheektowaga!” Stiglmeier Park offers a luscious green space that is ripe for bird watching, animal sightings, and nature walks. The nature trails are simple and safe, and the park is known for its cleanliness. There are tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and plenty of space to sit and relax while the young ones play. The playground itself is more of a modern day obstacle course than your simple slides and swings, which makes it all the more exciting (imagine the characters of the old, hit show, American Gladiators, designing a playground). Plus, the children have access to music-making contraptions and can feel braille letters throughout the park. However, the highlight of the experience is strolling the boardwalk.

Elevated where you need it, and flat where you want it, the boardwalk takes you to some of the most scenic parts of the park in a very safe and easy-tomaneuver manner.

Additional playgrounds that should be on your “Summer of 2018 Playground Tour” include:

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Great Beahre Swamp Town of Amherst Conservation Park Located in the Town of Amherst, this Wildlife Management Area actually has a zip line! This makes up for the lack of a traditional playground.

Plus, the paths, boardwalks, and trails are all very flat and easily accommodate strollers and wheel chairs. There is tons of wildlife to see, and the area can be enjoyed by anyone.

There you have it, a checklist of places you and your little ones must experience or rediscover this year.

Plan ahead with sun screen, snacks, water and, as always, never pass up the opportunity to use a bathroom you pass by; when at a park, you never knows where the next one will be. FY Anthony Chabala and Kevin Gibbons are family law attorneys in Buffalo, New York.

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June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 19

GETAWAYS

Explore Buffalo Lafayette and Canalside

BY OLIVIA MCCARTHY Canalside Commercial Slip Photo courtesy of Explore Buffalo

T

his month, we’re breaking the rules and bundling two tours together for our tour of the month. June is a great month for exploring the waterfront and downtown landmarks, but summer days in Buffalo can get pretty busy, so we’re trying something new with a few one-hour tours. Brand new for 2018 is the Lafayette Square Tour and the Intro to Canalside Tour! These noon-hour tours are a way to get out of the office or the house for a short walking tour with a whole lot of history packed in.

The Lafayette Square tour is held Fridays at noon starting from the Western New York Book Arts Center at the corner of Mohawk and Washington Streets. The historic square has gone through a number of phases since the early years of the Village of Buffalo.

Today, the buildings range in style

from the International style of the Central Library to the French Renaissance style seen at the Hotel at the Lafayette. We’ll share some stories from the past along with historical photos that capture the square, once called Courthouse Park.

On this tour, you’ll learn about

the buildings sitting on the square today, like the Brisbane and the Tishman building, as well as what came before them. A fun variety of styles and uses are represented historically around the downtown landmark. For example, did you know, the Rand Building, built in 1929, started off as a lumberyard

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in the 1830s and was then followed by a Presbyterian Church, a burlesque theater, and an early movie/vaudeville theater? That’s a whole lot of development. We’ll also explore the symbolism and history behind the Soldiers and Sailors Monument at the center of the square and work our way around to the gorgeous Hotel at the Lafayette for an interior look.

Similar to Lafayette Square, Canalside has many layers to its history. After the opening of the Erie Canal, commerce and industry boomed along the waterfront.

Canal workers in particular were known to put their wages toward a host of activities and businesses associated with drinking, gambling, and spending time with “Buffalo Gals.” This led to one of the streets of the Canal District being named “the wickedest street in the world.”

It is amazing how far we’ve come!

The waterfront neighborhood is now the center of year-round entertainment, filled with activities for all ages. A couple of highlights along the way include visiting the site of the Old Aud, posing with Shark Girl, catching up with new development projects, and walking the boardwalk of the central wharf.

Join us for this tour Mondays and Fridays at noon, starting from the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel. You’ll walk away with an understanding of how Canalside came to be and the many fascinating layers involved in its rich history.

We hope residents and visitors enjoy these new one-hour tours throughout the summer that are perfect for kids, families, older adults, and anyone working downtown looking for an active lunch hour! FY Olivia McCarthy is associate director at Explore Buffalo, a volunteer-driven non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Buffalo’s architecture, history, and neighborhoods through quality education to learners of all ages. More info on this tour and others at explorebuffalo.org

GETAWAYS

Out of South Africa Exploring the Eastern Cape STORY AND PHOTOS BY JENNIFER MERRICK

A giraffe wanders the Amakhala Game Reserve.

L

ong before I heard the catchphrase "bucket list," I dreamt of going on safari. I’d imagine myself driving through the African plains in an open-air jeep, photographing lions, outfitted like Meryl Streep in the movie Out of Africa.

But now, decades later, I finally had the chance to visit this great continent with a dream trip to South Africa’s Eastern Cape, located on the southeastern coast of the country. Our safari at Amakhala Game Reserve was magical with sights of graceful giraffes rambling through the vegetation, sougly-they’re-cute warthogs darting about with their tails straight as antennas, and even lions lounging at the edge of the cliff looking into the sunrise—not to mention monkeys, zebras, water buffalos, wildebeest, and rhinos.

These animals roamed through some of the most picturesque landscape I’d ever encountered: emerald green rolling plains that dipped into a large basin lined with red sand cliffs. At the bottom was the Bushmans River winding through even more pristine veldts.

Interestingly, as much as the safari experience lived up to my expectations, 22

there was so much more that I didn’t anticipate on this trip to South Africa.

Witnessing rural village life, discovering a wild coastline teeming with marine life, and hearing so many different accents spoken in urban centers with diverse multi-cultural legacies were just as much bucket list adventures as photographing the big five.

Touring Mandela’s childhood playground “Some of the happiest years of my boyhood were spent in Qunu,” wrote Nelson Mandela in his memoir Long Walk to Freedom. So it was a thrill to see firsthand where his remarkable life began on a Nelson Mandela early childhood excursion with Imonti Tours.

Mandela would have been 100 this year, but his heroic legacy lives on in South Africa and throughout the world.

In his compelling autobiography, Mandela nostalgically described the

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

veldts and valleys of the village, located in the former homeland of Transkei on South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

“Nature was our playground,”

Mandela wrote, and what a scenic playground it is.

Greener than I expected, the rural countryside stretched out hill after rolling hill. Some valleys were shallow, while others fell deep into the earth, and I found myself catching my breath, looking down at the pastoral landscape dotted with colourful, traditional round homes, and a river twining around it all.

Animals were everywhere, and Velile needed to be vigilant to avoid hitting the countless sheep, as well as various donkeys, pigs, chickens, dogs, and cattle.

“Cows are the Eastern Cape traffic lights,” our good-natured guide joked as we came to a stop yet again to wait for the animals to saunter oh-so-slowly to the shoulder. Not that we minded, since it gave us a chance to snap pics of the Watusi cattle, which looked quite dignified with their distinctive long horns.

As we drove down the bumpy roads, Velile pointed out significant places of Mandela’s childhood, like the railway (now in disuse), where he fled to Johannesburg with his cousin to escape an arranged marriage.

“I was a romantic,” Mandela wrote in his memoir. “And I was not prepared to have anyone select a bride for me.”

Other notable sites included the school he attended, and, of course, his village homes, both the modern house

The ICAMAGU Institute

GETAWAYS exhibitions encompass photographs and artifacts from his childhood until his presidency.

Mandela himself opened the museum in 2000, and it’s a fitting tribute to the modern-day hero who dedicated his life to garnering peace for this beautiful country. Quotes line the museum’s walls, including one in which Mandela defines his purpose: “I will pass through this world but once, and I do not want to divert from my task, which is to unite the nation.”

Croix Island viewed from the Raggy Charters Marine Safari

Mandela had built when he was released from prison as well as the site of his childhood home. They’re not tourist attractions in any way—not even a commemorative plaque indicating that one of the greatest heroes of our time once resided at these very spots.

But Velile brought us as close as possible and pointed them out. The village of Qunu is in many ways the same as it was in the 1920s when Mandela was a child, stick fighting with his peers and sliding down rocks. An elderly villager invited us into a Shebeen, a shanty building, where homemade beer is served, but we needed to move on and so we continued down the bumpy, serpentine dirt roads.

“Even Google maps wouldn’t find it,” said Velile. The picturesque rural landscape captivated us, and it was hard to resist not getting out for photo opps at every turn.

ICAMAGU Institute Dr. Nokuzola Mndende, theologian, founded the ICAMAGU Institute to educate people about the Xhosa culture. Many of the approximately 8 million Xhosa people live in this area, and it’s Mandela’s ethnicity as well. It’s a fascinating culture, as we found out in the next couple of hours, starting

with a typical lunch, consisting of samp (maize) and beans, chicken stew, and squash.

Next, we toured the traditional homes, the same type of round thatched huts that Mandela lived in, while Dr. Nokuhzola’s son, Andile, explained some of the Xhosa’s beliefs, the core of which embodies a deep respect for the environment. Andile showed us medicinal plants, including a “dream plant,” and he demonstrated how the remedy is used. Kneeling on the floor, he placed the plant in a wooden bowl full of water and rubbed a stick between his palms until a frothy broth appeared.

“You don’t drink the water itself, just the foam,” explained Andile. “If you’re having trouble with a dream, it will make it clear.” His mother, a healer, passed down this knowledge to him, which is an important responsibility since, as Andile commented, “Most youth today aren’t interested in preserving the culture.”

Nelson Mandela Museum In Umtata, the largest city in the area, is the Nelson Mandela Museum, another interesting stop on our tour.

Divided into stages of Mandela’s life: character, comrade, leader, prisoner, negotiator, and statesman, the

Cultural kicks on Port Elizabeth’s Route 67 Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape’s capital, is a laid-back town with a layered history, a thriving culinary scene, and a remarkable coastline.

In town, we found out about Route 67, an initiative to honour Mandela through attractions of gardens, murals, sculptures, and other art-based projects, representing the sixty-seven years Mandela spent in politics.

“It’s a journey that celebrates people, heritage, and culture,” said Ntina Khozi our guide from Lungston Tours.

One compelling installation was a sculpture showing people lining up to vote on the first all-race election in 1994.

“Everybody remembers where they were on that date,” said Khozi.

Raggy Charters Marine Safari When I imagined my African safari, I certainly never pictured myself bouncing around in a boat with waves hitting the bow, splashing us with the cold Indian Ocean waters. However, this was not your average African Safari! We embarked on a marine safari with Raggy Charters in the coastal waters off Port Elizabeth in the Algoa Bay, an area that afforded outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities. The big five we hunted on this excursion were whales, dolphins, seals, sharks, and penguins. No sharks or whales made an appearance, but it didn’t matter a bit because the penguins stole the show, waddling in a line going out to the water from their rocky home on St. Croix Island out to the water. Located four kilometres offshore, the island has 22,000 breeding pairs of African

penguins, the largest colony in Africa.

Who knew? It was my first time, seeing a penguin in the wild, a bucket list experience I never imagined when I first dreamed of Africa many moons ago.

For more information on visiting South Africa go to southafrica.net/gl/ en. FY Jennifer Merrick is a freelance writer and avid traveler based in Toronto.

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MY WNY STORY

Mike Buczkowski

BY MICHAEL J. BILLONI

M

ike Buczkowski’s office at Coca Cola Park overlooks a meticulously manicured green field, which is being cared for by an award-winning grounds crew hours before a recent Buffalo Bisons baseball game. This year, Buczkowski celebrates his twenty-fifth anniversary as general manager—the longest-tenured GM in the nearly 150 seasons of Buffalo baseball. Booch, as everyone refers to him, looks over the field and begins to reflect on when the ballpark was built in the 1980s.

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He tells the story of “The Park that Jimmy Built,” from a true insider’s perspective. The late James D. “Jimmy” Griffin was Buffalo’s iconic four-term mayor, responsible for leading the fight to build the $56-million downtown ballpark, working closely with Bison owners, Bob Rich, Jr. and his dad, the late Robert E. Rich, founder of Rich Products, Corp., a $3.6-billion privately held multinational food products corporation headquartered in Buffalo.

Buczkowski’s family is from Griffin’s home turf of South Buffalo, and Mike’s late father, Stan, was a member of his administration. “I remember sitting around a table with my dad and listening to the mayor talk about the importance of building this ballpark and what it will do for the revitalization of downtown Buffalo. He kept saying how they just had to start digging the hole and putting up steel beams and then it can never be stopped,” Buczkowski recalls.

“The Mayor faced opposition from many different groups, including the Common Council, but Jimmy was a fighter and he was determined. He

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often spoke of his fondness for the Rich family and how they were with him during this fight,” he continues. “This ballpark, when it opened in 1988, was probably one of the first public-private projects of its size in city history.

“Together, along with state funding and former Governor Mario Cuomo’s support, they accomplished something many said would never occur.”

A quarter century later, Buczkowski and his hardworking, enthusiastic, and creative front office team still look forward to the Herd’s opening home stand in April, maybe even more than youngsters anticipate the arrival of Christmas Day or the start of Hanukah.

Buczkowski says Bison associates spend all winter creating plans for the upcoming Triple A season and as the calendar nears April, excitement builds as they work on preparing the thirtyone-year-old ballpark for another season. The City of Buffalo owns the facility, but the team is responsible for all operations of the International League’s oldest ballpark. The team and Mayor Byron Brown enjoy a similar relationship as it did with Griffin.

Buffalo Bisons General Manager Mike Buczkowski Photos courtesy of the Buffalo Bisons

Our extended winter caused seven straight postponements due to weather after the Herd played its first two games of the opening home stand in early April.

“Baseball is meant to be played every day and our staff prepares for the season just like our players so having that stretch of no games was a challenge to all of us,” Buczkowski explains.

MY WNY STORY With the team now in the heart of its season, the vice president/GM is excited about its relationship with the Toronto Blue Jays and the creativity of his staff, which continue to offer fans new, exciting changes at the ballpark.

“Being with the Blue Jays has been great for us, because so many new fans are coming from Southern Ontario to watch the Jays of the future. Our best events are when we have our diehard baseball fans seated near families of parents and grandparents with kids who are here for the giveaway, the Friday Night Bash fireworks, or a special event, such as Star Wars Night, Superhero Night, or Key Bank Independence Eve Celebration,” he says with extreme pride.

Booch also credits the success of the Bisons, considered one of the premier franchises in professional baseball, to its ownership team of Bob and Mindy Rich.

“The fans may not see them at the ballpark as often as they did in the past because, as chair and vice chair of Rich,

they are travelling around the world on business. With our games live on the internet, they are watching wherever they are, and we hear from them before, during, and after every game. They are great owners, and they are great for the city of Buffalo,” he adds. “Mindy is always challenging us to come up with new, innovative ways to improve the fan’s experience at the ballpark.”

Buczkowski says that has become extremely important these days because fans have many choices for entertainment in a revitalized Buffalo.

“We must be cognizant of what we do have here—the national pastime, played outdoors on a beautiful green grass field. That makes us unique to the other venues in the city,” he adds. “The game itself is what is important. We are watching Major League Baseball stars of the future.”

For information about upcoming games, visit bisons.com. FY Michael J. Billoni is a storyteller and publisher.

Mike Buczkowski speaking at Hall of Fame Day

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BEING WELL

Avocados The mother of all fruit

BY CATHERINE STACK

T

his once unpopular fruit, commonly mistaken as a vegetable, was avoided by many people for being high in fat. This is partly right, however, avocados are high in healthy, protective fats and therefore should not be avoided. Avocados grow on trees that can reach sixty feet. Once picked, the avocado takes one to two weeks to ripen.

Avocados contain approximately 160 calories, 2 grams of protein and 15 grams of healthy fats. Although they each contain 9 grams of carbs, 7 of those are fiber, so there are only 2 “net” carbs, making this a low-carb-friendly plant food. Avocados do not contain any cholesterol or sodium and are low in saturated fat.

Avocados are often referred to as the healthiest food due to their impressive nutritional value. They are plentiful in many of the B vitamins, as well as C, E, and K. Minerals include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc. Avocados contain more potassium than bananas. They also

contain folate, which is very protective to cardiovascular health and stroke protection. This powerful fruit, high in beta-sitosterol, lowers bad cholesterol, raises good cholesterol and lowers triglycerides. It also protects against birth defects, especially spina bifida and other neural tube defects.

Great for healing the stomach and intestinal lining, they are easy to digest, especially for those with colitis, Crohn’s, or IBS. Avocados have an anti-inflammatory effect without a blood thinning effect. They also heal or potentiate healing in those with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

One of the best brain health foods,

IMPROVING LOCAL CIRCULATION and RELIEVING PAIN and INFLAMMATION.

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

the avocado helps optimize the central nervous system, which can alleviate Alzheimer’s and dementia symptoms.

Studies have shown that foods high in oleic acid, such as the avocado, have a preventative roll in breast, prostate, oral, and colon cancers.

As most of us know, foods high in antioxidants promote longevity. Eating avocados will help your body absorb and potentiate other antioxidants that are consumed. Avocados have an antiaging effect on the skin, improving one’s glow, and may even help eliminate dark circles—but that is just the tip of the iceberg. Because avocados contain

Experience Revitalizing Light with

more lutein than any other fruit, they are one of the best ways to protect your eyes from macular degeneration and cataracts. Avocados contain glutathione, a very popular antioxidant in the study of anti-aging medicine and the prevention of chronic illness, as it combats free radical damage (premature aging).

Avocados are high in fiber and will help you feel fuller longer, potentially helping with weight loss. High fiber helps metabolic health and steadies unstable blood sugars.

Maybe the most common preparation of the avocado is guacamole. Seasoned with onion, jalapeño, lime, cilantro, and salt to taste, this tasty dip is great for veggies or a great topping for chicken dishes, turkey burgers, or hamburgers.

My favorite way to enjoy avocado is in a very simple salad. Dice one ripe (not over-ripe) avocado. Add a half pint of cherry tomatoes sliced in half. Mince up a handful of cilantro and squeeze a half of fresh lime juice over the top.

Add some sea salt and mix well. You will not be dissapointed.

Avocados go well with any kind of eggs. Some even replace mayonnaise with ripe avocado for deviled eggs or egg salad. Ripe avocados are a great base to some of the best salad dressings ever made.

Start making avocado a regular staple in your diet. You have so much to gain. If you are not sure how to select a ripe avocado, it’s easy. Ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure should be eaten within a day or two. Unripe, firm or green fruit can take four to five days to ripen at room temperature. When an avocado begins to yield to gentle pressure, place it in the refrigerator to slow the ripening process. Now you are in the know when it comes to this amazing fruit. FY Catherine Stack (RN, ND) is a practicing Doctor of Naturopathy, Certified Nurse Midwife, and the founder and CEO of Journey II Health Center for Rejuvenation. Her book, Free Yourself from a CONSTIPATED Life, is available on Amazon. Visit her website at journeyiihealth.com or email cath626@gmail.com.

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A Few of Your Fav orite Things

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EVENT SPACE

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Having an Event? Call me for Space Rental. 716-834-8519 or 716-423-7130

Summer Dance, Trinity Methodist Church, 911 NFB, Amherst 14226. Friday, June 8, 2018, 6:30 pm.

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From the desk of WECK Radio owner and local business advocate Buddy Shula irst off, if you are already a WECK listener, thank you! If not, please give it a try.

WECK is Buffalo’s very own station for Western New York’s adult consumer. WECK plays timeless favorites twenty-four hours a day from artists like Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, The Carpenters, Barry Manilow, Andy Williams, Barbra Streisand, and thousands more.

WECK also features wellknown local personalities like Danny Neaverth, Joe Chille, Jon Summers, Harv Moore, Gail Ann Huber, Steve Cichon, Tom Donahue, Moon Rivers, and Ralph Irene.

You can listen to WECK on the radio at 1230 AM in Buffalo, 102.9 FM in the Southtowns, and now, 100.5 in the Northtowns, as well as streaming online at WECKBuffalo.com and with voice-activated smart speakers like Alexa/Amazon Echo and Google Home.

WECK is a friendly place. We are proud to offer an alternative to the talk, the politics, the nasty remarks.

We provide reliable, relevant local news and CBS national news.

We take our responsibility to serve our community and listeners very seriously.

We hope you enjoy WECK radio as much as we enjoy bringing it to you. FY

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YOUR PAGE 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 Wendy Guild Swearingen at wswearingen@foreveryoung. com or 1738 Elmwood Ave., Suite 103, Buffalo, NY 14207.

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2018

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June 1–3 100 American Craftsmen Discover this year’s exhibiting artisans in clay, wood, metal, glass, paper, mixed media, leather, fiber, and jewelry.

Through June 4 at Kenan Center Gallery (433 Locust St., Lockport; 100americancraftsmen.com or 443-2617)

June 16 BBQ & Blues Enjoy live blues, barbecue, beer, and good company while supporting the children and families served by Gateway Longview.

5 p.m. at Illinois St. in Buffalo’s Historic Cobblestone District (bbqbluesbash.com)

June 8–10 St. Mary of the Lake Lawn Fete This festival features music with Strictly Hip, Krossfire, Hit N Run and Reset to Vinyl, plus a 5K race, raffles, a vendor fair, food, rides, an outdoor mass on Sunday, and much more.

June 8 at 6 p.m. through June 10 at 11 p.m. at St. Mary of the Lake (4737 Lake Shore Rd., Hamburg; 627-3123)

June 23 Wild Edibles Walk Explore the trails for what wild plants are for eating, what are for healing, and what to avoid during this guided workshop. Registration required.

2–3:30 p.m. at Tifft Nature Preserve (Fuhrmann Blvd.; tifft.org or 825-6397)

June 29–July 1 French and Indian War Encampment Old Fort Niagara’s hosts its annual recreation of the historic Siege of 1759.

10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Old Fort Niagara (Youngstown; oldfortniagara.org or 745-7611) June 2018 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 29