Forever Young May 2024

OUR 36TH 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

Vice President / Chief Revenue Officer / Publisher Barbara E. Macks

EDITORIAL

Executive Editor Meagan Walker Doxtad

Managing Editor Donna Hoke

Contributing Writers

Tara Erwin, Amy Lynn Hardy, Carol Ann Harlos, Rick Falkowski, Lisa A. Grisanti, Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits, Judith A. Rucki

Proofreader Sharon C. Levite

ART & PRODUCTION

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, Nancy J. Parisi

ADVERTISING & SALES

Director of Sales & Advertising

National Ad Director

Barbara E. Macks

Terri Downey

Senior Account Executives Mary Beth Holly, Caroline Kunze, Robin Lenhard

Account Executives

Keren Green, Rachel Wasserman

Sales Coordinator Robin Lenhard

MARKETING & CIRCULATION

Director of Audience Development

Social Media Director

Web Master

Finance Manager

DIGITAL

Robin Lenhard

Robin Lenhard

Kim Miers

FINANCE

Elizabeth Harvey

Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2024 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 2024 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 (mdoxtad@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.

To all of life’s big moments

My son’s favorite pastime is clapping. He puts his hands together to greet familiar faces and when he sees a bottle. He throws out applause when he hears a song he knows. These are ordinary occurrences to the rest of us. But nothing is ordinary when you’re nine months old. Every connection is worth celebrating.

Next month, we’ll clap at his cakecovered face when we celebrate his first trip around the sun. No matter one’s age—from nine months to ninety years—connecting is crucial to our wellbeing. And that includes both moments of joy and of sorrow. Let this issue be your guide to connecting through all life’s ups and downs.

As for me, I’m new here. I’m thrilled to be rejoining the journalism world as executive editor of Forever Young after a much-loved career as a copywriter. I interned here as a college junior and learned what a regional magazine can be, and what it can do for—and with—this community.

Throughout her tenure, Sabrina mastered that essential collaborative balance, and I’ve learned a great deal

from her to carry forth. Sabrina, congratulations on an inspiring editorship and thank you for your guidance.

Celebrating Western New York is what Forever Young does best, and I couldn’t be more excited to celebrate our shared home and the people who make it everything it is with all of you.

Here’s to all of life’s big moments— the firsts, the new connections, the milestone anniversaries, the once-ina-lifetimes—and to the happy familiar that deserve their own little clap, too.

Meagan Walker Doxtad Executive Editor

FOREVER YOUNG *MAY RESOURCES

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

Buffalo HEADWAY SUPPORT

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

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

Buffalo ZERO/US TOO! PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT

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

Buffalo LGBTQ MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVERS PROGRAM: The Pride Center of WNY offers support and education for people providing care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. For information: 852-7743 or pridecenterwny.org

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

Depew BREAST CANCER NETWORK OF WNY Call 706-0060 or visit bcnwny.org for more information.

Derby GRAYCLIFF DOCENTS

NEEDED Upon completion of the Graycliff Docent Training Program, trainees will have the knowledge and confidence to present the stories of Graycliff to visitors in their own way. Please complete an online application form by April 1: experiencegraycliff. org/support/volunteer.

East Aurora CHRONIC PAIN/ FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT

GROUP Beginning April 20 from 10-11:30 a.m., this new group will meet at First Baptist Church (591 Porterville Road) and then meet regularly every third Saturday of the month. Share support and stories, learn about causes and symptoms, understand treatment, practice relaxation techniques, and more. Meetings also available via Zoom. For info, call Sue at 697-1657, Barbara at 574-0164, or Diane at 544-0954.

Erie County FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM

Erie County residents ages 55+: stay active and reap social-emotional health benefits by developing oneon-one relationships with children in a school setting. Stipend included. For info: 896-6388 or ccwny.org/ older-adults.

Erie County RECEIVE OR MAKE A FRIENDLY CALL!

Participants and caring volunteers are sought for the free Catholic Charities’ Telephone Assurance Program (TAP) geared to adults 60+ and adults with disabilities who experience loneliness due to isolation. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old; all training is provided. To learn more about receiving calls volunteering, contact Catholic Charities at 262-6164 or TAP@ccwny.org.

Gowanda HEALTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

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

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

Kenmore KENTON COMMUNITY RESOURCE

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

Niagara Falls SENIOR COMPANION/FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM

Looking for seniors who enjoy working with their peers or children. Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 2858224 Jennifer Britton (ext. 217) for Senior Companions and Kelly Carr (ext. 228) for Foster Grandparents

Niagara Falls SINGLES SOCIAL

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

Northtowns SOARING SPIRITS

WNY Widowed people meet for conversation, meals, and support. Ongoing meetings take place at Hillview Restaurant (6135 Transit Road) and Family Tree Restaurant (4336 North Bailey Avenue). Learn more at soaringspirits.org and Facebook. For information, contact Toni (admucilli@gmail.com) or Debbie (howndeb@hotmail.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.com

Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m. FREE. Visit facebook.com/ Buffalo-Laughers for information.

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

West Seneca AMANA GARDEN CLUB OF WEST SENECA, is welcoming new members interested in gardening, floral arrangement, and more. For more information, contact Marie: 8848543

Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 632-3700 or mcguiregroup.com

West Seneca PARKINSON’S SOCIAL GROUP Make new friends every third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (3512 Clinton Street). Info: 6743287 or recmab@aol.com

Multiple Locations TOPS CLUBS Take Off Pounds Sensibly Clubs offer tools, programs, support, and fellowship for healthy living and weight management.

Akron For info, call Diane 542-4980 Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 385-7558

Farnham For info, call 934-9619

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

Tonawanda For info, call 693-5161 www.tops.org

West Seneca For info, call 474-9125

14. *”Spring ____, fall back”

19. Spring mattress filler

22. Acronym in a bottle

23. Ceremonial staff bearer

24. Skylit lobbies

25. “Designing Women” star Jean

26. *Become soft, as in ground

27. Radices, sing.

28. “Way 2 Sexy” rapper

29. “Battle of the ____” movie

32. Swimming competition, e.g.

33. Not amateur

36. *The ____: “Little darlin’, it’s been a long, cold, lonely winter”

ACROSS

1. College cadet program

5. Comedian Schumer

8. Not square 11. October birthstone 12. Dueling weapon 13. FlambÈ

15. Capital of Azerbaijan 16. Rugged rock 17. Actress Vergara

18. *What many chicks are doing in spring

20. “Me and Bobby McGee” singersongwriter

21. *What the weather does in spring across the U.S. 22. Make a seam 23. Old name for 5-iron in golf

Facing

20s dispenser

Bodily fluids

Steak choice 35. Dungeness and snow, e.g. 37. “Chapter” in history 38. African antelope 39. Republic of Ireland

40. Made a feline sound

42. 34th U.S. President

43. Knock-at-the-door onomatopoeia 45. ____ the Great, king of Persia 47. Give it a go

48. Fraternity K

50. Dr Pepper, e.g.

52. *The Beach Boys: “Spring ____, good vibration”

55. Member of Nahuatl people

56. #23 Across, e.g.

57. Articulated

59. Salary increase

60. Umbilical connection

61. Volcano in Sicily

62. Robinson or Doubtfire

63. Bajillion years

64. One-horse carriage

DOWN

1. What highwaymen do

2. Moonfish

3. Bangladeshi currency

4. Type of purse

5. *Simon & Garfunkel: “____, come she will”

6. Wealth

7. Safecracker

8. High quality sound reproduction, for short

9. *Purple flower that starts blooming in spring

10. Fairytale insomnia cause

12. Like repeating tunnel sound

13. Off kilter

38. Highly skilled

40. *Official start of spring

41. Make bigger

44. Vanish without this?

46. Elevates

48. Dry plateau in South Africa

49. Oak nut

50. Same as tsar

51. “The Dock of the Bay” singer

52. Joe Biden, once

53. Solemn promise

54. Pinta and Santa Maria companion

55. Vegas bandit’s body part

58. *It gets longer

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

THEME: SPRING’S IN THE AIR

What not do in the garden this month

Don’t let eagerness be clouded by bad judgment

Imust confess to readers of this column that I made many gardening mistakes when I began to garden—especially in spring. I learned from them and now I want to keep you from making them!

Planting too early because the weather is warm is probably the most common mistake. The eager gardener loves the sunshine. The air is warmer. What could be a better time to plant? Answer: when the earth has warmed up. As I child, I remember Memorial Day was planting time—not a bad idea! Planting earlier means cool soil and poor root growth as water and soil nutrients are not easily taken up by the plant. This leads to poor photosynthesis (the process by which plants make food from carbon dioxide and water) and ultimately a sad plant that doesn’t grow well.

Planting tomatoes and peppers in cool soil and air means the roots cannot absorb calcium properly, which causes blossom end rot. When this occurs, the part of the tomato opposite the stem breaks down and looks leathery.

In early May, outside temperatures can still drop to freezing and kill tender plants. It’s sad, but avoidable. Planting in the wrong place is also a problem. Shade plants burn out in direct sun. Vegetables and herbs thrive in sun. Lungwort loves shade. Know your plants!

Seed catalogs and garden centers make us want to plant everything, which can lead to overplanting more than you need or want. I understand that! However, gardening is work even though we love it. Plant what you can take care of. When people see my gardens, some say, “That must be a lot of work.” I always answer that I love it; not everyone feels this way. Tomatoes from three well-tended plants are better than twenty untended. This goes for annual and perennial flowers as well. They need deadheading, watering, and weeding. Know your limits.

Hopefully, the soil in your gardens was made ready for this season last autumn with weed removal and the addition of soil amendments such as compost. Hopefully, the soil was also tested so you are aware of the pH and other nutrients. The time for soil amendment was then not now, and when it hasn’t been done, some gardeners feed plants when they don’t need it by indiscriminately adding fertilizers to gardens. This is a waste of time, fertilizer, and money that sends excess nutrients into the water and ultimately rivers and

streams. In addition, indiscriminate fertilization can burn roots of new and established plants. Overly fertilized soil also leads plants to produce lots of foliage but few flowers and/or fruit.

Spraying insecticides as a first resort is a result of ignoring insects. When you see tomato horn worms devouring your tomato plants in July, did you ever ask yourself how they got there? Every few days, walk through your gardens and look at plants not only from a distance but also up close. Look under the leaves. This is where most insects lay their eggs. The tomato horn worm moth for example lays her eggs at night now. A wash with the hose under the leaves will usually take care of future problems.

Ignoring weeds is just as big a problem. Before planting anything, be it shrub or annual, get rid of emerging weeds that steal the nourishment from your plants. You may be thinking, “Carol Ann, how do I know for sure they are weeds?” Weeds tend to come up randomly. Gardeners tend to plant in patterns. Time and experience also teaches us

to recognize weeds. Try to minimize soil disturbance; it only brings up more weeds!

Happy garden, happy gardener! I love hearing from you: caharlos@ verizon.net FY

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

CAROL ANN HARLOS

Donating our family history

Preparing research for future generations

If you’ve visited a local genealogical library, you know it can hold family histories and photos not found anywhere else. This is, in part, thanks to families with local connections who donate personal collections for the greater good. We don’t like to think about our own mortality but, as genealogists, we need to consider what happens to our research after we are gone.

intentions takes the collection in the hopes of continuing the research after they retire, after their kids are grown, or after fill-in-the-blank. It likely ends up forgotten in storage.

3. The family doesn’t know what to do with it or determines it has no value and tosses it (the horror!).

4. The family realizes its value to future generations and donates it to a genealogical society.

When a family genealogist passes away, the family with whom they shared treasured findings over the years is tasked with finding a steward for a lifetime of genealogy research. As priceless as we see our files, who else is realistically going to want to take care of them? Usually, one of the following occurs:

1. A family member with an interest in genealogy continues the research and cares for the collection with enthusiasm.

2. A family member with great

We all hope that someone in our family will continue our efforts, but without previous interest, it’s unlikely but do ask. Donating research is a logical and safe choice, but family members not only need to be educated about the option, but we also need to make it easy for them by preparing our collections for donation. Space is limited and donating two file cabinets, ten unmarked binders, and several boxes—my research reality right now—just isn’t feasible or welcomed. So, what do we do?

Minimize your collection’s footprint by getting organized. Space is limited at most facilities so taking charge now may just save your collection later. Citing sources on original documents and photos should be a priority. Eliminate the multitude of photocopies of originals you’ve found online; they’ll just add more weight. Do keep copies of un-digitized records you located at courthouses. The same goes for family bible records copied from relative or family group sheets, i.e., things that can’t be reproduced.

Organize documents by surname or family in archival boxes or folders, then stash a family tree chart in the front. Include photos of heirlooms and how they connect to the family. Include well-labeled family photos as well. Future generations won’t know who “Uncle Joe” is, so use complete names.

Now that your collection is well organized, contact the genealogical society or library you’ve chosen and

ask if they’d take your collection upon your passing. If not, shop around until you find a good fit. At the very least, let your family know the arrangements you’ve made; at best, add these instructions to your estate planning and make the donation a legal agreement.

For all the work we’ve done, we want our research to be preserved, but unless we are proactive in protecting it, it may not last past our generation. Although we like to keep research on hand while we work, keep future goals in mind to stay organized.

Most libraries don’t have oodles of extra space; planning now will keep your research out of a landfill later. FY

Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of both the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists. She is also Vice-President and Board Chairman of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. Send questions or comments to noellasdaughter@gmail.com

Bingo Calendar

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

MONDAY

AMERICAN LEGION MCKEEVER POST

1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo

7:30 p.m.

822-6400

HAMBURG–KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg

7:30 p.m. ......................... 649-9830/649-4340

MATTHEW GLAB POST

1965 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna

7 p.m. 825-3733

ST. AMELIA

2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda

7:15 p.m. 836-0011

TUESDAY

AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13

25 Review Pl., Buffalo

7:30 p.m.

ASSUMPTION PARISH

435 Amherst St., Buffalo

7:30 p.m.

874-0559

ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO.

4932 Clark St., Hamburg

7:30 p.m.

EVANS SENIOR CENTER

999 Sturgeon Point Rd., Derby

9 a.m.

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C

2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

649-9821

947-0974

1 p.m. ................................................. 681-7251

HARTLAND VFC

8945 Ridge Rd., Hartland

7:30 p.m.

2 p.m. (second Tuesday)

OUR LADY OF POMPEII

129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster

7 p.m.

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH

1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

7:30 p.m.

ST. ANDREW CHURCH

111 Crocker St., Sloan

7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST

1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo

683-6522

873-6716

892-0425

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 p.m. 875-5780

ST. ALOYSIUS RCC

156 Franklin St., Springville

7:30 p.m. 592-2701

ST. AMELIA

2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda

7:15 p.m. 836-0011

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI

4263 St. Francis Dr., Hamburg

7:30 p.m. 627-2710

THURSDAY

AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst St., Buffalo

7 p.m. 875-9276

BLESSED TRINITY

317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo

Bingo B Calendar C (continued)

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C

2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

1 p.m. .................................................. 681-7251

FOURTEEN HOLY HELPERS

1345 Indian Church Rd., West Seneca

7 p.m. 674-2374

K OF C MADONNA COUNCIL NO. 2535

755 Erie Ave., North Tonawanda

7:30 p.m.

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

693-5470

7:30 p.m. 873-6716

ST. JAMES DEPEW

500 Terrace Blvd., Depew

7:30 p.m.

VFW COL. WEBER POST 989 2909 South Park Ave., Lackawana

7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY

AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo

683-2746

823-9605

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

876-1038

7:30 p.m.

822-6400

8 p.m. 833-0301

7 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.) 874-0559

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.

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

549-4389

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

Holy Mother of the Rosary Cathedral

MONDAY BINGO AT 11:30 AM, DOORS OPEN AT 10:00 AM

Weekly Queen of Hearts Game

6298 Broadway

Lancaster, NY 14086 (Between Schwartz and Ransom Roads) Phone (716) 685-5766

No single game under $60 • Air conditioned • Ample, free parking Bingo hall located on first floor with no stairs • Handicap accessible • All paper bingo Bingo camera with 4 monitors • Verification system • 2 progressive jackpots up to $2560 IN PRIZE MONEY + STW, RWB & Bonus Ball. Progressive STW Jackpot Game.

My loved one needs Medicaid

Now what?

Is your loved one in a nursing home or assisted living? Are you struggling to pay the expensive monthly bill? Are you running out of money? Did the facility tell you to apply for Medicaid, but the idea of filling out the application forms feels overwhelming, horrifying, and time consuming? You’re not the only one; the Medicaid process can be stressful, difficult, and confusing. Don’t go it alone.

Summit Health Care Solutions has been representing individuals in long-term care facilities for more than twenty years and they can represent your loved one, too. Are you unsure if your loved one qualifies for Medicaid or how to protect as many assets as possible? Put your mind at ease by scheduling a Medicaid Planning Consultation with Summit Health Care President Darlene Maclay, Certified Medicaid Planner and licensed nursing home administrator (LNHA). One client told Maclay, “I have no words to express my gratitude. It eased my anxiety knowing you are in my corner.”

Summit Health Care Solutions has worked with thousands of families in New York State and across the country to obtain Medicaid for their loved ones, and it is ready to help you. Summit’s team of experienced, compassionate, and qualified Medicaid experts offer personal, supportive, and professional services. Best of all, team members answer the phone when you call, meet you at a location of your choosing, and guarantee their Medicaid representation fee 100 percent. You don’t need a lawyer when your loved one is admitted to a facility; you need the affordable Medicaid experts at Summit Health Care.

To set up a Medicaid planning consultation or obtain representation for your loved one’s long-term Medicaid, call Summit Health Care Solutions today at 332-6487 or visit MedicaidbySummit.com.

As Maclay likes to say, “Let us do the work, so you don’t have to.”

Connect to the world via Buffalo’s sister cities

Cultural events, meet-ups, and exchanges

BY AMY LYNN HARDY

Didyou know that our lovely city has nearly twenty sister cities? Within these partnerships, opportunities for cross-cultural exchanges, connection, community gathering, and global learning promise to expand our worlds. “There are quite a few things going on between Buffalo and its sister cities in various countries around the world,” says Bernard Kunz, vice president of the Buffalo-Lille Association. “Currently, we are working on supporting our friends in the Ukrainian sister cities of Horlivka and Drohobych. Earlier this year, we were supporting the rebuilding efforts in our sister city of Kanazawa, Japan. A group of high school students from Dortmund, Germany, are currently enrolled in local schools here, and students from Kenmore are currently in Lille, France.”

Sister Cities International was created by President Eisenhower in 1956 to promote peace and prosperity by fostering bonds between people from different communities around the world. The organization’s website defines a “sister city” as “a broad-based, long-term partnership between two communities in two countries.” These relationships can stem from historical connections, expatriate communities, trade relationships, shared geographic/sector challenges, study/work abroad, etc.

On April 12, all Buffalo sister city committees participated in SisterCity Mixer, which was a huge success. Here’s a sampling of what they have going on in Buffalo: Dortmund, Germany: This sister city relationship was proposed

by Herbert Morgenroth, who came to the University at Buffalo as an exchange teacher in the seventies. He noticed similarities between the two places—the suburbs, the size, the famous steel companies— and approached the Honorary German Consul in Buffalo to apply for the program. To this day, this partnership offers a high school exchange as well as cultural events, such as Waldfest in Marilla on July 21. In June, the Buffalo-Dortmund Sister City Committee celebrates the forty-fifth anniversary of the partnership and holds a fundraiser at the Buffalo Yacht Club. (facebook. com/Buffalo.Dortmund) Kanazawa, Japan: JapanWNY runs the Buffalo-Kanazawa Sister City Committee, which hosts exchange events and activities

between the two cities. “We regularly send delegations to Kanazawa for the Kanazawa Marathon and major festivals, and we host official delegations for major events like our sixtieth anniversary in 2022,” coordinator Chris Morrison explains. Other cultural activities include mochimaking workshops or mizuhiki (knot-tying). The organization is currently running a Noto Earthquake relief fundraiser to Kanazawa residents affected by this natural disaster. The best way to get involved is to become a member. (japanwny.org)

Rzeszów, Poland: Pomost International runs an active twoweek exchange for all ages with Polish sister city Rzeszów; it runs annually in July. It includes

Dortmund, Germany Kanazawa, Japan

housing and meals, tickets to sporting and music events, and intensive classes and workshops. Rest easy, you don’t have to speak Polish to participate, but you will learn some if you decide to go. Pomost president Gloria LaSota says, “our goal is to build personal, cultural, and international relations between Rzsezów and the USA.” (pomostinternational.org)

Lille, France: The BuffaloLille Association holds monthly meetings. Its big event this year is a trip July 6-14 to visit Lille and its neighbors in Belgium (Mouscron, Tournai, and Courtrai). The program includes visits to the European Parliament in Brussels, the offices of the Lille Eurometropolis region, Bruges, and tour of public murals in Lille curated by the arts organization collectif Renart. (facebook.com/ BuffaloLille.org)

The opportunity for connection and learning doesn’t stop there. The sister cities website (www.buffalony. gov/645/Buffalo-Sister-Cities)

includes contact information for sister city alliances around Western New York, a map, and a brochure about each place.

You can also connect by taking a language class! Whether beginner or advanced, language classes around WNY offer connection to far off lands. For example, the Alliance-Française de Buffalo offers French conversational classes and workshops all year round at Buffalo State University campus (afbuffalo.org/Classes). The Centro Culturale Italiano di Buffalo has Italian classes (ccibuffalo.org/ classes). And St. Stanislaus Parish has Polish Saturday School for all levels (polishschoolbuffalo.com). For online classes, check out the website: languagetrainers.com/ buffalo-language-courses.php.

To practice your new skills, find a foreign pen pal on websites like InterPals, Global Penfriends, or PenPal World. There, you can decide if you want to write letters, e-mails, or message each other on WhatsApp.

These fantastic opportunities for connection allow us to support our sister cities in both times of need and celebration, and learn about their views, lifestyles, and values

in a quickly changing (and often confusing) world. FY

Amy Lynn Hardy is a former teacher and freelance writer.

Image courtesy of the Buffalo Sister Cities Committee

Rzeszów, Poland

Friendly voices

Help is just a phone call away

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

Check in with an older adult and they might say they feel lonely. Dig a little deeper and you may find the problem is social isolation. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) say there is a difference: “Loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact. Social isolation is a lack of social connections.”

“Volunteers call TAP members once a week,” the website explains. “Calls are generally fifteen to sixty minutes and are scheduled between the volunteer and client often at the same time each week. Interested volunteers must be at least twentyone years old. Training will be provided upon acceptance into the program.”

The organization is always looking for both older adults and volunteers to participate in TAP, which provide one-hour weekly phone calls. To receive calls or to request more information about volunteering, call Catholic Charities at 262-6164, or email TAP@ccwny.org.

Loneliness not only feels bad, but it can also be damaging to your physical and emotional health. It’s linked to high risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Further, social isolation is linked to increased risk of stroke, heart disease, dementia, and premature death.

If you think social isolation is affecting you or a loved one, assess the risk with AARP Foundation’s Connect2Affect Social Isolation Assessment tool at connect2affect. org. In three minutes, you can determine risk levels for yourself or others and receive helpful information and local recommendations based on results.

“You don’t have to accept loneliness, and you shouldn’t,” the Institute on Aging reminds us. Seniors are encouraged to “make new connections, learn new information, and have something to look forward to.”

Catholic Charities of Buffalo offers a free Telephone Assurance Program (TAP), the longest-running social program for homebound older adults in Erie County.

At FeedMore WNY, “The Companion Call program began during the height of the pandemic as a way to provide socialization and an additional well-being check for our home-delivered meal recipients, since our volunteers could not stay and socialize during meal delivery,” says Catherine Shick, public relations manager. “However, it has been so well received that we chose to continue the program even though we no longer follow social distancing guidelines.”

Many of FeedMore WNY’s clients live on their own and are fairly isolated, explains Shick, who notes that the phone calls “help combat that isolation and provide our homebound neighbors with some socialization.”

Interested volunteers, who must be eighteen or older, are required to come to FeedMore WNY’s Holt Street office. Training is provided onsite at the beginning of the shift. To sign up or to learn more, visit feedmorewny.org/get-involved/ volunteer/volunteer-signup-form or call 822-2002.

“We may be isolated, but we don’t have to be alone,” according to AARP.. “Sometimes, just hearing a friendly voice on the other end of the line can help in challenging times.”

Seniors in the United States can request a call from a trained AARP Friendly Voice volunteer by calling 888-281-0145 between 9:00 a.m.

“You don’t have to accept loneliness, and you shouldn’t.”

and 5:00 p.m. or using this link: aarp.org/friendlyvoice. Leave your information, and someone will call you back. Spanish speakers should call 888-497-4108. The requests go on a roster that volunteers use to schedule calls.

New York State’s Office for the Aging is another avenue for keeping older adults connected and engaged. Their partnership with GetSetUp “has connected nearly 200,000 older adults to free online courses and communities that help them learn new skills and interact with others who share their interests.”

Google getsetup.io to find “hundreds of live online classes to keep you mentally, physically, and

socially active. Classes are interactive, easy to join, offered day and night, and free to our community.”

Categories include, but are not limited to, art, computers, cooking, exercise, food and nutrition, mental enrichment and fitness, music, photography, and social hours.

Find online classes in container gardening, space exploration, tai chi, plant-based kitchens, chair yoga, tech topics, container gardening, and that barely scratches the surface! The community plan offers ten free live classes available every week, along with unlimited communityled sessions.

Loneliness and social isolation don’t have to be a part of any senior’s life. Pick up the phone and connect yourself, or a loved one, to a world of possibilities. FY

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

A grueling journey of grief Technology aids healing

BY LISA ALESSANDRA GRISANTI

Alittle over two years ago, my only sister died suddenly, three weeks after her fifty-fifth birthday. Just two days prior, she and I folded clothes in my mother’s kitchen, talking about my recent trip to New York City and laughing about the rigors of online dating at our age. How could this be? I would ask myself again and again as I planned her memorial service while also caring for my elderly mother.

At the time, my eighty-five-year-old mother’s health was failing and, after consoling and caring for her over the next eleven months, she, too, passed away in January 2023.

Losing my sister and my mother within eleven months of each other triggered a sadness I had never experienced before, a grief that often felt debilitating, overwhelming, and almost punishing. These were my closest confidantes, family members I spoke with every day and spent time with regularly.

Normally outgoing, I felt alone and isolated. Some friends showed up in ways that were very helpful, but others didn’t show up in a way I needed them to. In addition, my mind was preoccupied with what ifs,

memories, intrusive flashbacks of the days my mother and sister passed, and some regrets, which I later learned are a normal part of processing grief and trauma.

Since my sister’s death, I have avoided crowds, big social gatherings, and several things I used to enjoy. Navigating this world without them still feels somewhat foreign and confusing. Early on, when not working part time, I opted to mostly cocoon in my home in my purple bathrobe, sometimes watching Netflix or journaling, other times reminiscing over family photos or spending time with my nephews. Grief is exhausting, and I needed simple reprieves and quiet time.

I knew I needed real help, but it all

felt like too much. Leaving my house to attend a grief group felt a like lot. But grief has a way of gathering likeminded community, and I ultimately used technology as a convenient and effective way to start processing my intense emotions. Online grief support groups, professional therapy via video chat, grief-related podcasts, and even social media were both resources and distractions. As a source of comfort, I began cooking Italian family recipes and sharing them on Instagram as a way to feel connected to my mother and sister, my grandmothers, and my culture.

Connecting and identifying with others online validated what I was going through and gave me an outlet to express grief in a way critical to

my healing. Through these resources, I have been able to tune in to topics as they relate to my grief, everything from losing a sibling to the impact of traumatic loss.

With loss also comes sorting through my loved ones’ belongings. While it was mentally challenging, social media meant a few clicks allowed me to easily sell or donate furniture.

Still today, on a daily basis, I tap into an online grief group or listen to a griefrelated podcast while on a morning walk or cooking a meal. My regular grief therapy sessions are mostly online video sessions as well. Even online shopping (Amazon, Instacart, etc.) came to my rescue during those early dark days when the thought of grocery shopping in a store felt overwhelming.

There is no getting over grief, but thanks to the various online resources that allow me to work through it in a way that is comfortable to me, I am doing better. I take it one day at a time, and I’m still learning how to do that.

Online Resources

Grief.com

Access to specific online grief support groups with grief expert David Kessler. Live video and replay sessions available several times per week. Subscription cost is $34 per month.

griefshare.com

Videos, daily emails, articles, local groups, and more curatinggrief.com Curating Grief (certified grief coach, curator, and speaker); monthly online gathering on Instagram @curating_grief

Podcasts:

All There Is with Anderson Cooper Instagram @andersoncooper

Good Mourning Instagram @goodmourningpodcast

Grief Out Loud from Dougy Center, dougy.org

Facebook Loss Groups:

The Wild Edge of Sorrow, by Frances Weller audible.com and paperback FY

Lisa Alessandra Grisanti is a tour guide, writer, and content creator.

Radio legend John Zach recounts historic Cheektowaga school fire

BY RICK FALKOWSKI

The book Built to Burn: The Cleveland High School Fire was released by legendary WNY radio newsman John Zach to commemorate the seventieth anniversary of the tragic fire that occurred on March 31, 1954.

Hailing from the Kaisertown section of Buffalo, John Zachwieja attended Seneca Vocational High School and played in the band John Zach & the Furies. He was interested in radio since his youth, and DJ Danny Neaverth further ignited his interest in becoming a radio announcer.

Western New Yorkers began listening to John Zach on the radio in 1961, when he was hired at WKBW. The sixties were the golden days of Buffalo radio, with WKBW’s 50,000 watts being heard along the East Coast from Maine to Florida. Zach was a member of the station’s “Pulse Beat News” with Jim Fagan, Henry Brach, and Irv Weinstein. They reported the news while Danny Neaverth, Joey Reynolds, Fred Klestine, Tommy Shannon, and other classic DJs played the music that influenced the Baby Boom Generation. Radio stations like WEBR, WBEN, WGR, and WBFO had fully staffed news departments covering local news.

Zach rose to the position of news director and remained at KB Radio until 1988, when the station dissolved the news department and changed format. A 2002 inductee into the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame, he was co-host of the top-rated morning news program at WBEN-AM from 1998 to 2017 and was also on the airwaves at WGR and WECK.

Zach reported on many national events like the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger, and the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, as well as local events including the December 1983 propane explosion and the Blizzard of 1977, when he got to the radio station via snowmobile. In 2004, he did a special report about the fiftieth anniversary of the Cleveland Hill Union Free School District elementary school annex fire. This was the most tragic school fire in New York State history: fifteen students died; nineteen students, three teachers and the school principal were injured; and hundreds of students were emotionally scarred by the event. The devastation and circumstances of the fire left an indelible impression on Zach.

In 1988, Zach self-published the successful book The Train Man about the Spoonley family from South Buffalo that created one of the largest model train businesses in the United States. After leaving radio in 2018, he released “The Day the Buffalo River Burned,” the story of jeweler Stanley Spisiak, Buffalo’s premier conservationist who brought pollution concerns about the Buffalo River to the attention of Senator

Robert F. Kennedy and President Lyndon B. Johnson. Then, with the Cleveland Hill fire embedded in his memory and its seventieth anniversary approaching, he decided to reinvestigate that tragedy.

The fire was reported in the Buffalo Evening News, Courier Express, and Cheektowaga Times, and Zach scoured their archives. He reinterviewed journalists, television reporters, photographers, students, teachers, administrators, maintenance workers, engineering staff, medical professionals, politicians, firefighters, police, historians, and anyone who could shed additional light on the incident. It was even necessary for him to file Freedom of Information Law requests to obtain inaccessible information and to solicit the assistance of Representative Brian Higgins’ office to cut through some red tape. The research comprised the most extensive information about the fire. No specific cause was determined, but readers may draw their own conclusions after reviewing previously unreleased information.

The fire was contained to the eightclassroom wooden annex that was attached to the brick school building. It was constructed to accommodate the influx of additional students from the Baby Boom after World War II. At the time of the fire only one sixth grade music class was being held in the annex. The students were unable to exit through the door to the annex, and the teachers had difficulty breaking the windows to escape. Ten students were found huddled together below the windows burned beyond recognition.

This tragedy could have been even more devastating. Just three months prior to the fire, all eight classrooms were being used for instruction: The building could have been filled to a capacity of over 200 children and the casualties may have been substantially higher.

The devastating fire prompted the enactment of a slew of safety procedures. Building codes were changed for schools, including rules implementing window types and sizes, availability of fire extinguishers, installation of fire alarms and sprinkler systems, mandatory fire drills, and establishing better communication between schools and fire departments. Learn more about this event by getting John Zach’s Built to Burn at area bookstores, gift shops, or online.

Rick Falkowski gives presentations on Buffalo music and history. He is the author of History of Buffalo Music & Entertainment and Profiles Volume 1: Historic & Influential People from Buffalo & WNY – the 1800s.

Local news personality John Zach Photos courtesy John Zach

Prediabetes and how to fight it

It’s time to make lifestyle changes

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

According to the National Diabetes Statistics Report, an estimated 97.6 million American adults are prediabetic, while another 38.4 million already have diabetes. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate in the United States, and millions of people are undiagnosed. As expressed by the CDC, diabetes is “a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.”

Classic signs and symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, numbness or tingling in the feet or hands, frequent infections, slow-healing sores, and unintended weight loss. While prediabetes usually has no signs or symptoms, one possible indication is darkened skin in the neck, armpits, and groin.

The risk of prediabetes increases with age. Nearly half of adults sixtyfive and older have prediabetes. While it’s more common in men than in women, women who had gestational diabetes are at higher risk.

Many people are unaware of their

prediabetes until fasting blood tests indicate problematic glucose levels.

Levels at 100 to 125 milligrams per deciliter (mgdl) is considered prediabetic. Another test, the A1C, measures average blood sugar level over the past two or three months.

An A1C between 5.7 and 6.4 percent indicates prediabetes.

“The same factors that increase the odds of getting Type 2 diabetes also increase the risk of prediabetes,” Mayo Clinic experts say. Factors include excess weight, a large waist, diet, inactivity, age (risk increases after age thirty-five), family history, genetics, ethnicity, gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, obstructive

Sarah Griffin DiVincenzo, a certified integrative nutrition health coach and owner of Pilates Art Studio in Buffalo, suggests learning which foods and combinations of foods cause blood sugar spikes. The glycemic index is a numerical system that measures the rate at which carbs from food arrive in the bloodstream as glucose (blood sugar) in the hours after they are eaten.

“We live in a great age right now where we can purchase a continuous glucose monitor and watch our blood sugar rates on our smart phones,” she says. “Generally speaking, eating a low glycemic, balanced, clean diet with a variety of fibrous vegetables, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and proteins is best. Obviously, processed food should be discontinued.”

The Balanced Plate Method, courtesy of the CDC, advises using a nine-inch plate. Fill half the plate with non-starchy vegetables, one quarter of the plate with protein, and the last quarter with carbohydrates. A glass of water or other zero-calories drink makes a well-balanced meal.

sleep apnea, and smoking. High blood pressure, low levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and high levels of triglycerides are also associated with an increased risk of diabetes.

Do prediabetic people eventually become diabetic? The CDC says it’s not inevitable: “Eating healthy foods, making physical activity part of your daily routine, and staying at a healthy weight can help bring blood sugar levels back to normal.”

In other words, even if diabetes can’t be cured, prediabetes can be reversed with early intervention. Your primary care physician may offer information to help, including a referral to a nutritionist or dietician.

It can be overwhelming to hear you need to clean up your diet, count carbohydrates, eat less sugar, drink more water, exercise regularly, get more sleep, have less stress, reduce alcohol intake, and stop smoking, all while maintaining a healthy weight. In her book, The Prediabetes Plan, Hillary Wright, M.Ed, RD, explains how to reverse prediabetes through healthy eating and exercise and includes lists of healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, along with snacks. There’s even a shopping list that includes brand names that offer good choices for all your meals. She also talks about how managing the emotions and assures you can still dine in restaurants.

“Education in this area is critical,” says  Griffin DiVincenzo. “If someone has high blood sugar, they should take it very seriously because this is something that you have a lot of control over, and it can determine the health span of your life. Blood sugar problems lead to so many other disease states.” FY

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

FIND SAVE AND

Virtual Health Resource Center now open

VA Western New York Healthcare System is now offering inperson and virtual services at the Virtual Health Resource Center (VHRC).

VHRCs offer support to Veterans, their family members, and caregivers. Each VHRC is staffed with health technology experts who provide guidance, hands-on support, training, troubleshooting help, and other information regarding virtual care tools, such as VA Video Connect, My HealtheVet, mobile health apps, and devices.

The VHRC experts hold regular trainings for staff to stay up to date on virtual care tools and technologies and serve as a resource that VA staff can refer Veterans to when they have questions or need technical support beyond the VA staff member’s expertise.

The VAWNY VHRC is located on sixth floor in room 629C and is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Veterans interested in scheduling an appointment can call 862-7886.

Your service was then. Your benefits are now. Get the care you earned, with the best and most affordable health care in America for Veterans.

From the desk of WECK Radio owner and local business

advocate Buddy Shula

GIVEAWAYS GALORE

Everyone loves great giveaways and winning prizes! At the BIG WECK, Buffalo’s Oldies Station, we have a blast giving away tons of great prizes every day! Do you like concert tickets? BIG WECK has them! How about gift certificates to your favorite restaurants? BIG WECK has those too! BIG WECK even gives away trips to amazing destinations.

It’s so easy to “get in the game!” Download the BIG WECK app and join our free text club, become a part of our email club online, join us on Facebook, or win the old-fashioned way by listening to the radio or with a voice-activated device.

It’s all part of playing a vital role in our fans’ lives and the Buffalo community. Buffalo’s coolest oldies and prizes are found every day at 1230AM, 102.9FM, 100.1FM, and 100.5FM, streaming online, on the app, and listening with Alexa. Thanks for being a part of the BIG WECK family.

Buddy Shula President /CEO

CLOCK REPAIR

All types including Grandfathers. Free In-Home Estimate, Pick Up, Deliver. Call or Text: 716-418-2773.

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Forever Young readers: we want to hear from you! Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized? Tell us more. Do you have a story you’d like to share? Drop us a line. We want to devote space in Forever Young to what matters most: you. Send your story ideas to mdoxtad@ foreveryoungwny.com.

MAY SOLUTION

May 8

Sweet Expectations

FeedMore WNY’s annual fundraiser offers an array of sweet and savory bites from local vendors, live music, a silent auction, chef demonstrations, and an open bar. Purchase tickets online.

5-8 p.m., the Show at Shea’s Seneca (2188 Seneca Street; feedmorewny.org)

May 15

Senior Health & Resource Fair

Network in Aging’s third annual event is open to all, specifically caregivers and older adults, and features more than fifty vendors, as well as complimentary blood pressure and glucose screening. Tickets are $20 by Venmo (@NetworkIn-Aging) or check; $22 by credit card.

10 a.m.-1 p.m., Ironworkers Banquet Hall (196 Orchard Park Road, West Seneca; networkinaging.org)

Opens May 9

Crossing Delancey

With the help of her irascible grandmother, Izzy, a young Jewish woman seeking love and purpose in New York City, struggles to choose between a handsome, successful author and a gentle, unpretentious pickle vendor.

Pickle Party May 22; film screening May 27 (jccbuffalo.org/jewish-repertory-theatre; 281-0092)

May 18

Dare to Repair Cafe

Reduce landfill waste by bringing broken items to the repair cafe for free fixing by volunteers. For more information, visit thetoollibrary.org/daretorepair.

10 a.m.-1 p.m., Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve (93 Honorine Drive, Cheektowaga; reinsteinwoods.org, 683-5959)

May 24-25

Signature Stars and Stripes

The BPO continues its Memorial Day tradition with a musical tribute to the men and women of the armed forces.

10:30 a.m. on Fri. & 7:30 p.m. on Sat., Kleinhans Music Hall (3 Symphony Circle; bpo.org, 885-5000)

Sweet Expectations image courtesy of FeedMore WNY; Crossing Delancey image courtesy of Jewish Repertory Theatre of WNY; Dare to Repair image courtesy of The Tool Library; Stars and Stripes image courtesy of BPO.