Forever Young March 2023

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

Give a little bit

As spring approaches, let’s embrace new beginnings—perhaps by finding a meaningful way to pay it forward.

Executive Editor

Managing Editor

Sabrina Kahwaty

Donna Hoke

Assistant Editor Daniel Curry

Contributing Writers Wendy Guild, Carol Ann Harlos, Jonnemarie Kahwaty, Jennifer Merrick, Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits, Ashley Ziomek

Proofreader Sharon C. Levite

ART & PRODUCTION

Almost every area of life relies at least partially on volunteers donating the most valuable thing they have—time—to make a positive difference. In the absence of a paycheck, what keeps them coming back is the experience of helping others: it feels good to do good.

Creative Director

Jean-Pierre Thimot

Lead Designer Nicholas Vitello

Senior Graphic Designers / Illustrators

Joshua Flanigan, Kim Miers

Graphic Designers Taramarie Mitravich, Rachel Kaznica

Photographers kc kratt, Luke Copping, Stephen Gabris, Eric Frick, Nancy J. Parisi, Dan Cappellazzo

ADVERTISING & SALES

Director of Sales & Advertising

National Ad Director

Senior Account Executives

In this issue, we offer several volunteer opportunities. While we only scratch the surface of the myriad opportunities as we highlight charitable work with Friends of the Night People, becoming an Explore Buffalo docent, helping at local theaters, and even volunteering on vacation, there really is something for every

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

interest skill set. If none of these suit you, we hope this issue inspires you to explore your own areas of interest and seek a place for your contribution—your efforts will be rewarded!

Gratefully,

Robin Lenhard

Robin Lenhard

DIGITAL

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 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.

Sabrina Kahwaty Executive Editor

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

Online IMAGINE BUFFALO SPEAKER SERIES Presented by the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library in conjunction with C-SAAHN and ImagineLifelongLearning.com via Zoom every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. Each week features a local speaker and Q&A. FREE. Visit website for Zoom link: buffalolib.libcal.org

Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS

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

Gowanda HEALTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

Activities open to the public age 50+, (no residency requirements), Concord Senior Center, 1 School Street, Gowanda; for schedule, visit communityalliance.org; 532-1010

Niagara Falls SENIOR 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

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

Buffalo HEADWAY SUPPORT GROUPS For individuals who have sustained brain injuries, their families, and caregivers; exchange information and resources, and find mutual support and encouragement. Info: 408-3100 or headwayofwny.org

Southtowns NEW HORIZONS

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Buffalo LGBTQ MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVERS PROGRAM: The Pride Center of WNY offers support and education for people providing care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. For information: 8527743 or pridecenterwny.org

NIAGARA FALLS SINGLES

SOCIAL CLUB: 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

TOPS CLUBS Take Off Pounds

Sensibly Clubs offer tools, programs, support, and fellowship for healthy living and weight management. Akron For info, call Diane 542-4980 Cheektowaga For info, call Karen 247-2334

Cheektowaga For 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

53. Largest share owner

55. “____ to Joy”

57. *Coldest display

61. *”What’s on ____?”

65. Main artery in the body

66. Feathery neckwear

68. Isolated

69. Hipbone-related

70. Octopus’ defense

71. Espresso plus steamed milk

72. Eye contact

73. Word from #32 Down 74. Goes up or down DOWN

1. D.E.A. agent

2. On a deck, perhaps

3. Pad

4. Gem State

5. Depended on

20. One of the Muses

22. Shoshonean

24. Railyard worker

25. Gabbana’s partner

26. Relating to bees

27. Edward Teach’s facial feature

29. *Prepared food department

31. Contributes

32. Get ready to drive (2 words)

33. Type of wheat

34. *Ricotta and eggs section

36. Semiaquatic tetrapod, for short

38. Sips from a flask?

42. Bar by estoppel

45. Novelist HonorÈ de ____

49. Blackbird dessert

51. Paragons

54. Galactic path

56. Pomp

57. Be unsuccessful

58. Dramatic part

59. Sportscaster Andrews

60. JFK or ORD postings

61. Japanese alcoholic beverage

62. Tiny amount

63. Not in favor of

64. Lecherous look

67. *O in BOGO

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

THEME: AT THE SUPERMARKET

Growing Zones and surviving cold

How important are they?

cold, only desiccating wind. If you have plants in pots, bury them in the ground so the roots can experience a proper winter.

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

Several readers have asked about the usefulness of Growing Zones and how they relate to plants surviving cold weather. This column is for them and you!

All plants have needs that contribute to success or failure in a certain environment. In Western New York state, if you spit an orange seed in your yard, the seed may germinate but you have no expectation that it will grow into a tree in our climate.

Developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Growing Zones are a set of numeric designations that assess hardiness based on the average annual lowest night temperature; the lower the Zone number, the colder the average night temp. Each zone varies by ten degrees and there are thirteen total that range from negative sixty degrees to seventy degrees Fahrenheit. Each Zone is further divided into a and b zones in five-degree variables so, for example, Zone 6a is five degrees cooler than Zone 6b. Western New York ranges from 4b to 6a.

Plant labels provide a hardiness zone range. While it is tempting to purchase plants that are hardy in higher range zones, we need to remember the difficulty of providing that higher temperature in our gardens. But we try—most of our houseplants are tropical!

Hardiness zones have limitations. Macrophylla hydrangeas are hardy down

to Zone 4. This means the roots survive but the flower buds from the previous autumn can freeze. In other words, the plants live; the flowers don’t. Phlox stolonifera is hardy in Zones 4 through 8. It lives in the cold but grows slowly and never reaches its potential. Provenance also enters into this. Red bud trees purchased in northern climates may have been started from seed grown in Zone 8! This is why people are often disappointed in trees or plants that don’t succeed where they live.

You may have viewed All American Selections display gardens near the Buffalo Waterfront. Plants grown there are newly developed and being tested for hardiness, flower production, and disease resistance. Display gardens are grown in different Zones with different growing conditions in various states.

Growing Zones are not the complete answer to plant survival. Moss campion and pygmy buttercups grow and survive in the Arctic, and we know that some plants survive not only in extreme conditions but also in certain areas of our own gardens. Herbaceous plants that have no woody stems above ground die back in the autumn; their underground roots are protected by fallen leaves and other plant parts.

(How sad it is to see naked soil created by fastidious gardeners in the autumn and leaving roots unprotected!) Woody plants gradually harden off in the autumn. Green growth tissue hardens. This protects the plants from water loss, which is why you shouldn’t cut your roses back too soon; cutting back in early autumn stimulates new green growth that subsequently dies back when the season gets cold.

If you check your perennial gardens in winter, you may notice that though the top of the soil is frozen, but soil a few inches down is warmer than you would have thought. If you mulch, or let nature mulch, you’ll find the soil relatively warm.

What about snow? I remember my mother saying that a winter without snow would be a plant killer. Fresh fluffy snow is approximately ninety-five percent air and makes a great insulator. Snow also slows down evaporation of plant water by wind.

What can the gardener do to insure plant success over winter? Buy plants suitable for the Zone in which you live. Keep gardens watered until late in the season. Remember that roots grow where water is. Know that wrapping trees does not protect plants from the

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

Macrophylla hydrangea

Research tips and tricks To help avoid rookie mistakes

I’vebeen there. It’s 9:00 p.m. on a cold Saturday night and I’ve settled in with hot tea and a snack. I research a branch of my family tree and, without taking a breath, quickly jump to the next branch, then the next. By the time I glance at the clock, it’s 3:00 a.m. Not only have I eaten an entire bag of cookies, but I’ve also added dozens of names and dates without checking sources. Sound familiar? I’ve received several emails asking what I wish I had done differently when starting my genealogy research. Besides eating too many cookies, there are few regrets I can share that might help you avoid my mistakes.

Not looking at facts with common sense. Do you have an ancestor born before her parents or an individual strangely appearing in census records after their death? Incorrect dates can crush research. Taking time to create a timeline of your ancestor’s life can help keep dates straight and prevent commonsense errors that are not so easy to correct years later.

Copying data from other trees. I’ve done it. With millions of family trees on research sites like ancestry. com and familysearch.org, it’s hard not to peek. Although collaborating with other genealogists is helpful, copying trees without verifying facts can lead to disaster. Always check sources. Thinking of genealogy like high school algebra and be prepared to show your work.

Only recording names and dates. Genealogy is not solely recording vital statistics. Dates are important, but they are just road signs pointing to your ancestor’s story. Initially I raced off, tracing every available line as far back as possible only to find myself looking at what had become a long list of names and dates. Always look for records that provide color as well. Newspaper articles, local maps,

census, and military records build picture of what our ancestors’ lives looked like beyond birth and death.

Following the wrong ancestor. Is your tree cursed with a Mary Smith? No offense to Mary but having common names in our tree can be a nightmare! Let’s imagine now that you’ve got the wrong Mary Smith. Building a tree around her is a waste of your valuable research

time. To avoid this, use multiple criteria when searching, especially those with common names. Consider your ancestor’s birth year, occupation, family members, and location before adding the information.

Not maintaining organization. Several years ago, I was looking for a specific death certificate and though I knew I had scanned it, my computer organization lacked to the point that it was easier to find the paper copy among my many boxes. I have since created a system for scanned documents and photos. I did not enjoy the monotony of naming each scanned item but love how simple it is to find something now. Start early and if you’re already in over your head, start today. You won’t regret it. Not citing sources. Most genealogists will name “not citing their sources” as their biggest rookie regret. It may not seem like a big deal at the moment of

discovery, but when you want to find a record in the future and have no idea where you saw it, you’ll wish you’d cited that source. Most genealogy software includes citation templates, but your basic goal is to include what the document is, where to locate it, who authored it, when was it published, and pages referenced.

Trying to go it alone. There are so many places to get help, starting with the local genealogical society in your area or area you’re researching. Genealogists are extremely helpful so join and tap into members’ expertise. Don’t be shy. If you need help, ask for it!

If you have a story to share, question, or idea for a future column, feel free to reach out at noellasdaughter@gmail.com. Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a National Genealogical Society member and Association of Professional Genealogists member. Carol is also Vice-President and Board

Chairman of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. FY

Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists. She is a board member and president of the Niagara County Genealogical Society, as well as a guest lecturer and freelance writer. Email questions or comments to noellasdaughter@gmail.com

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS

Bingo is back!

Please call event organizers to confirm information provided. Listings are alphabetical by day.

MONDAY

AMERICAN LEGION MCKEEVER POST

1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo

7:30

AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041

533 Amherst

HARTLAND VFC

8945 Ridge Rd., Hartland

7:30 p.m.

2 p.m. (second Tuesday)

OUR LADY OF POMPEII

129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster

7 p.m. 683-6522

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH

1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

7:30 p.m. 873-6716

ST. ANDREW CHURCH

111 Crocker St., Sloan

7:30 p.m. 892-0425

WEDNESDAY

AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST

1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 822-6400

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C — SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES

2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

7 p.m. 681-7251

LANCASTER ELKS

33 Legion Parkway, Lancaster

7 p.m. 685-1478

OUR LADY OF HOPE

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

1530 Kenmore Ave, Buffalo

1:00 p.m. 875-5780

ST. ALOYSIUS RCC

156 Franklin, Springville

7:30 p.m. 592-2701

ST. AMELIA

2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda

7:15 p.m. 836-0011

THURSDAY

BLESSED TRINITY

317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo

8 p.m. 833-0301

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

1 p.m. 681-7251

FOURTEEN HOLY HELPERS

1345 Indian Church Rd., West Seneca

7:00 p.m. 674-2374

K OF C MADONNA COUNCIL NO. 2535

755 Erie Ave., North Tonawanda

7:30 p.m. 693-5470 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH

1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

7:30 p.m. ........................................ 873-6716

FRIDAY

AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST

1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 822-6400

ASSUMPTION PARISH

435 Amherst St., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 876-1038

DALE ASSOCIATION CENT.

33 Ontario St., Lockport

7 p.m (first and third Fridays).. 433-1886

SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

11099 Route 5, Irving

7 p.m. 1-800-421-2464

ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA

157 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga

7:30 p.m. 833-1715

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH

1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

7:30 p.m. 873-6716

ST. PHILIP THE APOSTLE

950 Lossen Rd., Cheektowaga

7:00 p.m. 668-8370

SATURDAY

BUFFALO GAY BINGO/ AIDS PLUS FUND OF WNY

Amvets Medallion Post 13, 13 Review Pl., Buffalo

7 p.m (2nd Sat.) 822-0818

CARDINAL O'HARA HIGH SCHOOL

39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda

7:30 p.m. 695-2600 x326

OUR LADY OF BISTRICA

1619 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna

7:15 p.m. ........................................ 822-0818

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 HIGH STAKES

BINGO AT TURNING STONE

5218 Patrick Rd., Verona

12:45 & 7 p.m. daily ............ 800-782-1938

St. Bernard’s Church

1988 Clinton St at S. Ogden St, Buffalo NY (716) 822-8856

Exploring Buffalo Volunteers make it possible

BY DANIEL CURRY

Celebrating ten years since its founding, Explore Buffalo is a nonprofit organization that creates and leads tours across Western New York. The organization’s spine is made up of passionate docents, frequently retirees who love sharing their knowledge and love for Buffalo with visitors and locals alike.

Tom Mudra retired in 2006 and was looking for something to do; he began work as a docent the following year after he answered an ad in a local paper and was, he says affectionately, “immediately roped in. Once you volunteer for something, they got you,” says Mudra. “You learn a heck of a lot about the city and your community.”

In 2012, Mudra and a few others created Explore Buffalo to bring awareness to the incredible sites in our city. Though Mudra is no longer an active docent, he says that his time as a guide connected with his community and taught him even more about his hometown. Becoming a docent does require training and dedication, but the process is simple and worthwhile.

“Sign up as a volunteer at explorebuffalo.com. The first part of the process is a telephone interview that explains what Explore Buffalo is about,” Mudra says. “Then there is a twelve-week training program where

you learn about tours and how to give them, as well as a comprehensive history of Buffalo.” A fee is required for written materials and a tour microphone. Once training is complete, docents choose tour times based on their availability.

“People can also volunteer to be a tour assistant,” Mudra says. “They pretty much walk in the back of the group and make sure that there are no stragglers. So that’s a good opportunity for someone who wants to volunteer but isn’t necessarily comfortable giving a tour. We have all sorts of volunteers at Explore Buffalo.”

Kathy Pollock is celebrating her ninth season with Explore Buffalo and is active in both planning tours and training docents. “You should never stop learning and exploring, but the older you get, you have less opportunity for challenges and to meet new people and do new things,” she says. “I want to encourage people to sign up for tours, walk around the city,

and take advantage of the things that are out there. With Explore Buffalo, I made lasting friendships. It’s amazing that you find new things that you enjoy. The thing I love most is sharing stories of Buffalo, its rich history and architecture. I get to do that with people from around the world.”

Like Pollock, Larry Mruk is a current docent who began after retirement and shares love for his hometown, learning,

Zedek

teaching, and engaging with people from all walks of life.

Mruk has been a docent with Explore Buffalo for eight years, focusing on history, especially down at the waterfront, where he teaches guests about the towering grain silos. “I’m a former teacher,” he says. “I taught architecture and computer design classes, so I thought I would be giving a lot of architecture tours. But now I’m down at the waterfront doing tours of Silo City. I like to tell the history through stories, and I like to connect with the people.”

Being Explore Buffalo docents has gifted Mudra, Pollock, and Mruk a new passion that has direct impact on the city and proves that there is always something new to learn—even about your own region. FY

Daniel Curry is Assistant Editor of Forever Young.

Before leading a tour, Explore Buffalo’s volunteer docents undergo a twelve-week training program. Photos courtesy of Explore Buffalo

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Friends of the Night People Helping the homeless since 1969

BY ASHLEY ZIOMEK

In the 1960s, downtown Buffalo’s Chippewa Street was known as the red light district. Full of bars, cheap hotels, and sex workers, the area had a reputation for trouble. But out of necessity comes innovation. In 1969, Friends of Night People (FONP) was established to provide safety and solace for red-light wanderers. “[FONP was] set up by pastors who were tending to people once bars closed on Chippewa,” says Joseph Heary, FONP member for more than fifteen years and current executive director. “They would serve coffee and chat with people.”

Looking for more ways to volunteer in your community?

Western NY Heroes

Seeks to ease transition between combat and civilian lives

Contact: 630-5020

Website: wnyheroes.org

Pride Center of WNY

Supports the LGBTQIA+ community, including youth

Contact: 852-7743

Website: pridecenterwny.org

Compass House

Provides safe shelter to at-risk, runaway, and homeless youth

Contact: 886-1351 ext. 114

Website: compasshouse.org

Buffalo City Mission

Fights homelessness, poverty, and hunger

Contact: 854-8181

Website: buffalocitymission.org

Volunteer Transport Network

Needs administration and drivers to coordinate rides between VA appointments

Contact: Cynthia 862-8671

Website: visn2.va.gov

Do you or a loved one need help locating resources? Available 24/7, dial 2-1-1.

Today, the larger organization that grew from those simple beginnings can be found at 394 Hudson Street. From this location, FONP offers everything from showers, lockers, clothing, and hot meals to acute medical care. FONP staffs a team of case workers able to help with short-term assistance, financing and/or obtaining identification information, or finding housing.

“We wait for people to identify what their needs are. We try to be kind, compassionate, welcoming, [and] make them feel comfortable,” says Heary. “Some individuals are dealing with shortterm setbacks, maybe an extra utility bill, their vehicle broke down, they’re recently homeless or released from prison, and they just need short-term assistance. Other people may spend a month

getting comfortable before they open up, before they’ll let us know what they need, and then we’ll try to connect the dots.” Knowledge of FONP services typically spread through word of mouth, but also through partner organizations, which FONP is always seeking to assist with its goals.

“Being an organization that’s open 365 days a year, we need volunteers each and every day,” says Heary. “We serve breakfast Monday through Friday nine a.m. to eleven a.m., [and] dinner from five to seven p.m.,” says Heary. “We can serve anywhere from 100-150 people, and [for] volunteers, we try to have at least six for breakfast, and ten for dinner service.”

Staff members from the outreach team and culinary department are present during meals and “are committed to ensure that

dignity, compassion, and safety of volunteers and guests are always maintained,” Heary explains.

Some volunteers have been with FONP for forty years. If you’d like to join them, Heary encourages groups to coordinate volunteering through their relationship manager, and individuals can sign up on the FONP website. “There’s online orientation, and a place to pick a volunteer shift,” Heary says. “[Booking is] usually one to three months in advance.” Volunteers are asked to wear comfortable clothes.

FONP also welcomes all donations, including hygiene products, blankets, clothing, childcare necessities, monetary, and beyond. They are unable to accept household items, children’s toys, or medical equipment. “People can arrive seven days a week, between ten a.m. and seven p.m. to our side door at Wadsworth, and we accept

the donations right here at our building,” says Heary. “Everything is given away free.”

FONP also has a volunteerbased clinic that opened in 1994. “[The clinic is] partnered with the School of Medicine, from the University at Buffalo,” Heary explains. “They’re first and second year med students, and a local attending physician helps with acute illnesses.”

As FONP expands its reach through the city and surrounding communities, Heary says its message is this: “First and foremost, we’re grateful for the generosity of the people in Buffalo and WNY who support our mission to help care for others in need.” FY

Ashley Ziomek is a freelance writer living in WNY.

“BeautifullyMaintained” –Louise,aresident

Help the show go on And get to see it yourself

BY WENDY GUILD

Volunteering at theaters and other venues is a wonderful way to see world-class entertainment for free, socialize, and make friends. Most theaters—even Shea’s—rely on volunteers in some capacity to keep things running. This is not a complete list, but chances are if you ask the theater near you, they can use your help.

Volunteer tips

• Most theaters offer volunteer orientations. Check with each theater to see when they’re scheduled.

• Usher volunteers assist, direct, and seat patrons and are prepared to assist them in the unlikely event that a building must be evacuated.

• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes; you’ll likely be on feet for several hours.

• Ushers usually wear black on the bottom, white on the top.

• Bring a mini flashlight to read tickets after the house lights go down.

• Avoid coming to the theater if you are not feeling well. Illness can spread to the cast and decimate or even cancel a show.

• An up-to-date COVID vaccine is usually required and masks may be required.

All utilities included

Conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, banking, etc.

On-site laundry

Shea’s Performing Arts Center sheas.org

650 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14202

Nikiya Campbell

Operations Coordinator ncampbell@sheas.org; 829-1196 x 113

I joined the Shea’s volunteer team in August, and since then have had the opportunity to see performances as varied as Alice Cooper, Come From Away, Tina, and Dancing with the Stars Live, all while ensuring patrons (approximately

300,000 a year) have a safe, comfortable, and wonderful experience. Each team is assigned a day of the week; I work Tuesday evening shows, for instance. Shea’s has two types of volunteers: ushers and spotlight. Ushers greet patrons and guide them to seats. Spotlight Volunteers support performances by selling concessions, champagne, or raffle tickets; operating the coat check/hearing enhancer station and player piano; and staffing the Spotlight Lounge.

Artpark

Artpark.net

450 S. 4th St., Lewiston, NY 14092 Francine Delmonte

Artpark Volunteer Coordinator fdelmonte@artpark.net; 754-9000

People looking for a fresh air environment filled with varied cultural/ artistic and musical offerings will find Artpark fits the bill. Email Francine Delmonte indicating your interest; applications are emailed to prospective and current volunteers in mid- to late April. Demonte shares:

“People stepped away from volunteering once the pandemic hit and many have not returned. I don’t know of a venue that doesn’t need volunteers. I have many volunteers that have been at Artpark ten years or more and one that has been with the park since it opened in 1974! I really appreciate them. “New volunteers and those with fewer than five years of experience are expected to work at least one graduation and/ or dance recital. New volunteers are strongly encouraged to work the many cultural (non-concert) programs like the Fairy Festival, Strawberry Moon Festival, free Family Saturdays, New Music in the Park events, and others offered throughout the summer. Time requirements for each event varies from a half hour to an hour and a half before an event begins.

“Artpark has three venues, the expansive outdoor Amphitheater, the 2,400-plus-seat Mainstage Theater that opens up to a sloping lawn, and the Emerald Grove stage that hosts smaller events. The park’s hilly terrain requires volunteers to be mobile and able to stand for long periods of time.”

Irish Classical Theatre Company irishclassical.com

625 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14203

Kate Boswell

Director of House Management

housemanagement@irishclassical.com

853-4282

At Irish Classical, most volunteers are ushers. Email house management or call the box office to reach Kate Boswell. “Before the season begins in September, we do an orientation, but if folks join us later on in the year, I let them know about any important information they may need to know,” says Boswell. “We look for individuals who will provide our patrons a pleasant experience at the theater, whether that is helping them find their seats, answering questions, or supplying a friendly face. Generally, we ask ushers to work one performance for each of the six shows we have during the season. We ask them to arrive an hour before the performance to go over information and stay fifteen to twenty

minutes after the show to help with clean up.”

Alleyway Theatre Alleyway.com

1 Curtain Up Alley, Buffalo, NY 14202

Chris Handley

Executive Artistic Director

chandley@alleyway.com; 852-2600

Alleyway maintains a roster of volunteer ushers to work each performance, and they play a big role in the audience’s experience. Alleyway is currently seeking ushers. Visit alleyway.com/about/opportunities to fill out the online form and the volunteer coordinator will contact you. Alleyway’s Chris Handley notes, “Our volunteers are mostly ushers but, depending one’s skills, we’d love to have more volunteers throughout our building [helping with] the work we do.” FY

Wendy Guild is a freelance writer and editor living in Lewiston.

Volunteering on vacation The joy of combining fun and service

for an outing (which I was surprised to learn involves dropping a trail of almonds for the pig to follow).

BY JENNIFER MERRICK

Workon your vacation? Aren’t they supposed to a relaxing time away from obligations? It may seem counterintuitive, but volunteer work could become the most enjoyable part of your getaway. It was for me when I volunteered at Best Friend Animal Sanctuary on a trip to southern Utah. It was my first time, but many helpers are regulars who spend vacation time at the sanctuary year after year.

Located just outside Kanab, a small town near Zion National Park, this animal rescue shelter has served our four-legged friends since 1984. Volunteer opportunities at this 3,700-acre no-kill facility include

socializing animals, dog walking, hosting pet sleepovers, helping with housekeeping, or even taking a pig

At Cat World, volunteer Joyce gave me a nametag and I was greeted with a purring leg rub by Abigail, who had been so covered with sores when she arrived that she was nicknamed Scabigail by her previous shelter. Now healthy, she’s one of the approximately 550 cats in the eleven buildings that make up Cat World. Dogtown, Horse Haven, Parrot Garden, Bunny House, and Marshall’s Piggy Paradise are other areas volunteers can work in.

I spent my morning at Morgaine’s House, the “mild” sick building for felines with special needs. Staff member Annabel, who had volunteered for six months before taking a full-time job, assigned some housekeeping tasks and told me that petting and playing with cats was also encouraged for socialization. I bonded

Jo and George Dietriech volunteer at Petrified Forest National Park. Photo courtesy of NPS Photo

Photo by Jennifer Merrick

with Noelle, a shy little tabby who took to me, and Mosby, an affectionate feline who followed me as I changed bedding, refilled water, and cleaned.

The three-hour shift flew by, and it was with some reluctance that I said goodbye. At the onsite restaurant, Angel Village Café, I lined up with other volunteers, visitors, and staff. Not only was the fivedollar vegetarian lunch tasty, it came with a phenomenal view of Angel Canyon, which shows off Utah’s famous red rocks, pink-tinged peaks, and the white cliffs in the distance.

After lunch, I hiked the Water Canyon Trail and ran into Janet, a volunteer walking an energetic terrier. She was staying at one of the cottages for a week, her second volunteer vacation at Best Friends, and she’d booked another for six months hence because she likes the combination of beauty, animals, and being away from a stressful job. “After a week here, I’m ready to face my life again,” she said. FY

Jennifer Merrick is an awardwinning freelance writer, photographer, and avid traveler based in Toronto.

Find the perfect volunteer vacation

BY JENNIFER MERRICK

Pick the brains of friends, family members, colleagues, and acquaintances. When I asked my network, I received a flood of responses about experiences and charitable programs.

Tara Nolan, author of gardening book, Raised Bed Revolution, wrote that she volunteered at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens a few years ago. “They have a ‘Weed and Pot Club’ that meets regularly, so I helped plant cuttings of native species and weeded parts of the garden that has invasive species.” She wasn’t the only one volunteering in the Aloha State. Jami Savage, lifelong adventurer and founder of adventureawaits.ca, recently took part in the Malama program.

Malama means “give back” and volunteer opportunities range from reforestation projects and beach clean-ups to restoring the Missouri Memorial Battleship and Hawaiian quilting sessions. Jennifer Bains, editor of National Parks Traveler, will be in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park this winter on a two-week stewardship program with national parks service. With more than eighty-five million acres to protect in its 420 parks, opportunities to lend an extra hand abound in federal wilderness areas and historic sites. Visit volunteer.gov for a list of 100s of opportunities like.

State parks also rely on volunteers, and a great option of is a week-long Volunteer Vacation with the American Hiking Society to help build and maintain trails across the country. Participants come from all ages and backgrounds and are encouraged to go at their own pace though a reasonable level of physical fitness is expected. Trips on this year’s schedule include Mammoth Cave KY (Apr. 2 – 8), Letchworth (June 11- 17), and Moab UT (Oct. 1 – 7).

Ros Walker, a learning technologist from Scotland, is excited to be a steward at this year’s UK folk festival and says that “most festivals will give a free ticket in lieu of a few hours work per day.” Others voluntour with providers doing projects that range from working in an elephant sanctuary in Thailand, protecting turtles in Costa Rica, conserving sharks in Fiji, and teaching English in Laos. Exercise due diligence when choosing a provider. Orphanage volunteering, for example, poses serious risks to children and perpetuates exploitation and child trafficking. But done right, volunteering while traveling opens our minds and hearts to new places, cultures and ideas closed to ordinary tourists. FY

Freshly made soups, chopped romaine salad mix and fresh fruit salad. Huge selection of ingredients, toppings & dressings, complemented with garlic bread sticks and fresh rolls. Eat in or take out.

The benefits of meditation For mind and body

BY JONNEMARIE KAHWATY

With the rise of meditation and principles of mindfulness in Western culture comes a plethora of information that can obscure their simplicity and accessibility, as well as their benefits. Practicing meditation and living mindfully can increase mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve mood and concentration. In addition to cognitive benefits, you might also manage chronic pain, lower blood pressure, and even boost immune function, which is particularly beneficial to our health as we age.

Mindfulness is being fully aware and engaged with the present moment. You achieve this through meditation, the practice of bringing full awareness

and focus to a single thing. (And yes, you can meditate without sitting on the floor with your eyes closed and legs crossed! More on that later.) It

sounds simple until you remember how common multitasking and overstimulation are in today’s world. As you read this, what else is competing for your attention? Are you walking, eating, drinking a cup of coffee? Is the TV on in the background? Are thoughts floating in the back of your mind about what you’re going to do once you’re done reading? Take a moment to let everything else go and focus your attention to this one task, without distraction. It may feel difficult and uncomfortable at first, but that’s perfectly normal…that’s why we call it a practice!

What can this practice look like for you? It could involve passive meditation—the classic eyes closed, seated posture visual that probably popped into your head—which is the easiest way to start because by closing

your eyes to the outside world, you eliminate distraction and facilitate your mind’s ability to focus inward. With practice, it becomes easier to stay present.

One of the biggest misconceptions about passive meditation is that the goal is to “clear your mind.” People try once, experience a random thought, and give up thinking they failed. It’s natural for your mind to wander. As mentioned earlier, choose one thing to focus on while you’re meditating. Breath is common, but it can be a body part, mantra or emotion. If sitting cross-legged isn’t comfortable, find a different position; discomfort is a distraction.

During meditation, the goal is not to shut down thoughts, but to observe them. You may have an urge to follow them and shift your attention, but the

key is to acknowledge the thought for what it is—just a thought—accept it without judgment and refocus. Continue this process as thoughts, feelings, and sensations come up during your practice.

If you feel overwhelmed, remember this is a practice. Think of yourself as sorting through a filing cabinet that hasn’t been touched in years—there are going to be a lot of files! Be patient and kind to yourself. Starting with even a few minutes daily can be incredibly effective.

Once your mind has been trained, you’ll start to practice active meditation more naturally as well. Active meditation is just that—meditation in motion! Instead of meditating while sitting and doing nothing else, you find meditative moments throughout your day. Some people find it less intimidating to focus on common activities like cooking, cleaning, eating, walking, or showering. Mindful eating can aid with digestion.

Start by eliminating intentional

distractions that normally accompany these activities. If you normally eat dinner while watching TV or scrolling your phone, eat without devices. If you have earbuds in while walking or cleaning, perform these activities in silence. Take advantage of the stillness to focus attention on your actions and bring awareness to your senses one by one. Observe colors, shapes, and textures of ingredients as you cook. Notice the sound of the broom sweeping against the floor. It might feel weird at first, but as you continue your practice, tuning into your senses will become second nature.

Everyone has mindfulness; we just have to learn to access it. Meditation is not one-size-fits-all so it’s important to find a practice that feels comfortable and sustainable for you. It may take time to develop a consistent practice, but the benefits are worth it.

Jonnemarie Kahwaty is a dance instructor, musician, and herbalist with a passion for holistic health and wellness.

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MARCH INTO THE BIG WECK

Radio, like every other form of broadcast media, has changed a lot over the past decade. In radio’s case, that’s a great thing! Now, listeners can hear the Big WECK anywhere, not just in the car, at home, or at work.

Big WECK broadcasts on all media platforms. If you have a “regular” radio, good for you! Keep it—it will become an antique. However, many listen to Big WECK from their voiceactivated devices like Alexa or by downloading the free Big WECK app on a smartphone or tablet. You can even stream on our website: bigweck.com.

It’s never been easier to listen to Buffalo’s Oldies Station. No excuses—that’s for sure. If you love oldies from the 60’s and early 70’s, the Big WECK is your station. Listen anywhere!

Thanks for listening to local radio made in Buffalo, NY.

Buddy Shula President/CEO

18-19, 25-26

March 3-5

Orchid Show and Orchids After Dark

In collaboration with the Niagara Frontier Orchid Society, the Botanical Gardens’ annual orchid showcase features dozens of hand-picked and award-winning exhibits. Orchids After Dark is a beautifully lit evening experience. E-tickets required.

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

(2655 S. Park Avenue; buffalogardens.com, 827-1584)

March 11

Buffalo Art Studio’s Live on Five

Reconnect with Buffalo’s dynamic creative community for the big auction of small works featuring hundreds of five-by-five-inch pieces by coveted local artists, all starting at $25. This year, all are invited to see the work beginning March 4 before virtual bidding via mobile app goes live. The in-person reception on March 11 includes bars, music, and light fare.

7-11 p.m., Buffalo Arts Studio (Tri-Main Center, 2495 Main Street, Ste. 500; buffaloartsstudio.org, 833-4550)

March 9-19

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

A mermaid princess makes a Faustian bargain to become human in the hopes of winning a prince’s love.

Palace Theatre (2 East Avenue, Lockport; lockportpalacetheatre.org, 438-1130)

March 18-19, 25-26

Maple Weekends

Go behind the scenes of maple syrup production in Western New York during designated Maple Weekends. Members of the New York State Maple Producers’ Association invite the community into their “sugar houses” to experience a world of pure NY maple syrup. Located at farms and museums across the state, this is a delicious, fun-filled outing for the whole family. Check the website for closest sugar house.

mapleweekend.nysmaple.com

March 21

Author talk: Bodyslams in Buffalo: The Complete History of Pro Wrestling in WNY

Former Pro Wrestling Illustrated Senior Writer Dan Murphy discusses the history of professional wrestling in Western New York, from Ed Don George and Jim Londos filling Bison Stadium in 1932 to WWE and AEW thrilling audiences in 2023.

6:30 p.m., Cazenovia Neighborhood Library (155 Cazenovia Street; 821-0564)

The Little Mermaid image courtesy of Disney; gallery photo courtesy of Buffalo Arts Studio