Forever Young November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023 |

FREE

Western New York’s FREE Monthly Magazine For Adults 50+, With More Than 85,000 Readers

What’s cookin’?

Recipes, tips, and more

Pumpkin in the kitchen | Love-ly lasagna | Accommodating food sensitivities

NOVEMBER 2023

Track ancestors who became US citizens.

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Enjoy convenient recipes.

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Make a healthful meal for one (or two).

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On the cover: Pumpkin pizza with goat cheese, spinach, onions, cranberries, and a balsamic drizzle Photo by Amy Lynn Hardy

Home & Garden 5

Cooking with plant products.................... Carol Ann Harlos

Genealogy 6

Naturalization records.................... Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits

Features: Cooking 12

Pumpkins: not just for carving..................Amy Lynn Hardy

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Slow and steady..................................................Tara Erwin

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Lasagna Love................................................. Reagan Zuber

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Healthful cooking for one (or two).............. Judith A. Rucki

Being Well 18

Photo by Amy Lynn Hardy

Food sensitivities at the holidays..... Christine A. Smyczynski

Pumpkins can be used in a variety of delicious recipes.

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Ever y Issue: Resources 3 | Bingo Buzz 12 | Classifieds 28 | Noteworthy 29

Senior Housing Designed With You in Mind!

ALBERTA PLACE

64 Amsterdam Ave., Amherst 817-0707  1 & 2 BRs for Seniors 55 & Up

COLONIAL MEADOWS

6018 Broadway, Lancaster 683-3244

 1 BRs for Persons 62 & Up or Disabled Adults Regardless of Age

SOUTHWIND LANDING

716-884-7791 TDD 711

ISLANDVIEW APTS.

JULIANNA APTS.

2136 Baseline Rd., Grand Island 773-2416  Studios / 1 BRs for Seniors 62 & Up

505 Abbott Rd., Buffalo 825-5611

SENECA WOODS APTS.

745 Indian Church Rd.,

 Studios & 1 BRs for West Seneca 825-7200 Seniors 62 & Up or Adult  1 BRs for Seniors 62 & Up Disabled Head of Household

5074 Transit Rd., Depew 206-0281

TOWNVIEW APTS.

50 Grambo Dr., Lancaster 684-3509

TRUE BETHEL ESTATES

WOODLAND PLACE APTS.

871 E. Ferry St., Buffalo 322-1282

4791 William St., Depew 668-9534

 1 & 2 BRs for Seniors 55 & Up

 1 BRs for Seniors 62 & up

 1 BRs for Seniors 62 & Up

 1 & 2 BRs for Seniors 55 & Up

 Income limits apply.  Non-senior households must include at least one adult with a disability.

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 1

EDITOR’S NOTE 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 Vice President / Chief Revenue Officer / Publisher..................................... Barbara E. Macks

EDITORIAL Executive Editor...................................................................................... Sabrina Kahwaty Managing Editor............................................................................................Donna Hoke Assistant Editor........................................................................................... Reagan Zuber Contributing Writers............................................................... Tara Erwin, Amy Lynn Hardy, Carol Ann Harlos, Judith A. Rucki, Christine A. Smyczynski, Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits 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

In the kitchen

Eating is an essential part of life and, unless you’re independently wealthy, so is cooking. For some, cooking is a chance to experiment, relax, and provide others with sustenance from the heart. For others, cooking can be stressful or overwhelming. (I used to fall in the latter group, until pandemic lockdown provided time to make good on my years-old New Year’s resolution to improve my cooking.) Whichever category you claim, this issue has something for you: convenient recipes, cooking to give back, tips on cooking for one (or two), accommodating holiday guests’ food sensitivities, cooking with plant products, and more!

In this month focused on gratitude and loved ones, why not invite someone to join you in the kitchen? Grandchildren can help with smaller tasks or learn

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

ADVERTISING & SALES Director of Sales & Advertising................................................................ Barbara E. Macks National Ad Director..................................................................................... 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................................................................. Robin Lenhard

DIGITAL Social Media Director.................................................................................. Robin Lenhard Web Master..................................................................................................... Kim Miers 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.

This publication is a member of the North American Mature Publishers Association.

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

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

Never miss a Forever Young!

Subscribe for $12/year!

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

something new; friends and family may enjoy assisting or just keeping you company. I have many fond memories of sitting at the kitchen table while my mother cooked; it sometimes sparked the best conversations.

Thank you for your readership, and have a happy Thanksgiving, however you celebrate.

With gratitude,

Sabrina Kahwaty Executive Editor

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

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

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.

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

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.

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 C O M PA N I O N / F O S T E R GRANDPARENT PROGRAM Looking for seniors who enjoy working with their peers or children.

Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 285-8224 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.org Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m.

FREE. Visit facebook.com/BuffaloLaughers for information.

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

West Seneca AMANA GARDEN CLUB OF WEST SENECA, is welcoming new members interested in gardening, floral arrangement, and more. For more information, contact Marie: 884-8543 Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 6323700 or mcguiregroup.com Multiple Locations TOPS CLUBS Take Off Pounds Sensibly Clubs offer tools, programs, support, and fellowship for healthy living and weight management.

Akron For info, call Diane 542-4980 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

716-874-6000

KenmoreHousingAuthority.org Stephen V. Stone, Executive Director 657 Colvin Boulevard Conveniently located at the corners of Colvin Blvd. & Kenmore Ave.

Independent Living with amenities such as Security, Social Activities, Elevators and Laundry Facilities.

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 3

CROSSWORD 22. Dinghy propeller

45. Polite social behavior

24. Bear witness

49. How many of the President’s men?

25. *Read between these for real meaning

51. *Cross it when you get to it

26. Writer Asimov

56. Count sheep

27. Likewise

54. Investigative report 57. Bringing up the rear, adj.

29. *Don’t beat around it

58. Between ports

31. Claudius’ successor

59. Consumer

32. Breadth

60. Overhaul

33. Oil holder

61. Tennis scoring term, pl.

34. *Cut one some of this and don’t be critical

62. Pool path

36. Dirt on Santa’s suit?

64. Henna and such

38. Gallup’s inquiry 42. Like Raphael’s cherubs

63. Great Lake 67. *One up your sleeve gives advantage

THEME: IDIOMS ACROSS 1. Nebraska city on Missouri River 6. Not her 9. Earnhardt of racing fame 13. Sea near Australia 14. Slippery when cold 15. Printer cartridge contents 16. *Title of this puzzle, sing.

17. Congressional title, abbr.

18. Title holder 19. *Run around in these and not make progress 21. *Cut these to skip steps 23. He had 24. Nicholas II, e.g.

25. Jack-in-the-Box restraint 28. Subway in U.K. 30. What washing machine does 35. Egyptian goddess of love 37. Crescent point 39. Hot rod sticker, e.g.

40. Org. in Brussels 41. Impede 43. Parks or Luxemburg 44. ____’s, once Canada’s famous department store 46. *One of these in beans lacks importance 47. Barrel-counting org.

48. Nova ____, Canada 50. Mess up 52. Bugling ungulate 4

53. Modeling material 55. Robinson in “The Graduate” 57. *Resting on these stops one from trying 61. *No use crying over this milk 65. Money in the bank, e.g.

66. Certain frat house letters 68. Little dear 69. Like a disreputable neighborhood 70. College assessment test, acr.

71. Fairy-tale oil lamp dweller 72. Hawaiian tuber 73. “Oui” in English 74. The Three Musketeers’ swords DOWN 1. Ear-related 2. Skirt length 3. Gulf V.I.P. 4. Moonshine 5. Cloth armband 6. Kaa’s warning 7. *Break it to start a conversation 8. Synchronizes, for short 9. Pillow filler 10. “Green Gables” character 11. Suggestive look 12. Blunders 15. Full of tribulations 20. Derive

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

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

HOME & GARDEN

CAROL ANN HARLOS

Cooking with plant products

Using your fall harvest in the kitchen

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You could also add rosemary, sage, or mint. Mix in whatever proportions you fancy and store in airtight jars. If salt is restricted in your diet, leave it out and make an herbs-only mix. This salt is a great rub on meats of all types and a light sprinkle on freshly cooked vegetables is wonderful!

Garlic dug in late July is used in mashed potatoes. I combine the drained smashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, milk, salt and pepper, and dried garlic which was pulverized in the blender. Yum is all I can say! (I do make a second batch without garlic for those who can’t tolerate it.)

Desserts are pies—apple, two kinds of pumpkin pie, and banana cream. I don’t raise any of these. I am getting hungry just writing this column!

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

am tired but happy. I have been cutting, digging, freezing, bottling, or canning items from the garden and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of my labor. Please join me as I share what I’ll use for our Thanksgiving feast. save” and the genus name refers to Garden sage is an easy herb to I made cuttings of chives all season its original use medicinally. Of the long. I cut them close to the ground harvest; simply cut and hang to dry. many medieval sayings about sage, my Although I do freeze some herbs, I because this encourages fresh growth. love sage drying in the kitchen. It’s a favorite is “Why should a man die in The cuttings were washed, drained, whose garden grows sage?” and left to dry. Then I chopped them wonderful seasoning for poultry, pork, I also make salt to season meats or up and put them in containers for the and sausage. I also like melting butter, vegetables. I learned how from an old adding dried sage, and pouring it over freezer. friend whose grandmother made it, asparagus or other vegetables. It is, I grow lovage in the herb garden; it’s Carol Ann Harlos is an awardof course, a major seasoning in our thus the name “Nana’s salt.” Making it a perennial relative of celery but more winning retired math and science teacher, is fun; you simply mix dried herbs— strongly flavored. All season long, the traditional turkey dressing!

Master Gardener, beekeeper, writer, and from your own garden of course— The lore of sage is so appealing.

Its leaves can be harvested and used in speaker. She tends extensive gardens, scientific name is Salvia officinalis; with coarse salt. I like chives, garlic, place of or in addition to celery; they including herbs, and loves learning from parsley, summer savory, and thyme. can also be harvested and frozen. My the genus name Salvia means “to others and sharing her knowledge. favorite use for them is in lovage soup, which is made like vichyssoise with a large handful of lovage leaves, then pureed and served heated. I know • All utilities included • On-site management that French cuisine had a large effect • Pet friendly • Conveniently located near on Polish cooking in the 1700s, and shopping, restaurants, banking, etc. • 24 hr. maintenance Units I wonder if the traditional Polish • On-site laundry • Meals program Starting lovage soup came about this way... at $577 the merging of two cuisines. (By the 100 Moorman Drive, Cheektowaga, NY 14225 way, another use for the hollow lovage Income Eligible Seniors 55 & Older stems is creating nesting places for mason bees. Collect them now for next spring or leave the hollow stems as winter refuges for bumblebees and Maryvale East Senior Apartments | (716) 681-5061 | maryvale@rcgltd.net other insects.)

Safety, comfort, affordability.

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 5

GENEALOGY

Naturalization records Tracking ancestors who became US citizens

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS

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lmost all of us have family history that includes immigration to the United States. A little-known resource to research this aspect of your genealogy is the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While USCIS does offer a fee-based service, more recent records may be available at no cost through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Generally, you can make an FOIA request for information that is fewer than 100 years old. If you know the specific immigration records you are trying to retrieve and have basic information about your family members, you can submit an FOIA Request on behalf of a relative. You will need signature consent from that person or, if applicable, a death certificate. FOIA requests are typically free.

The fee-based genealogy program provides access to historical immigration and naturalization records of deceased immigrants. This service can actively help you research

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

immigration-related information through five types of records including Certificate Files, Alien Registrations, Visa Files, Registry Files, and A-Files.

Certificate Files or C-Files (September 27, 1906 to March 31, 1956) are copies of records relating to all US naturalizations in Federal, State, County, or municipal courts. Standard files contain at least one application form and a certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship. The file may also contain correspondence and affidavits; files from 1929 onward include photographs.

Alien Registration Forms or AR-2’s

(August 1940 to March 1944) were completed by aliens aged fourteen and older, residing in or entering the United States between August 1, 1940, and March 31, 1944. This form includes basic information such as name, date of birth, etc. but may also list occupation, name and address of employer, membership in organizations or societies, military service details, and details of relatives living in the United States.

Visa Files (July 1, 1924 to March 31, 1944) are arrival records of immigrants admitted for permanent residence under the Immigration

GENEALOGY Act of 1924. Visa forms contain information normally found on a ship manifest, as well as the immigrant’s places of residence for five years prior to emigration and parents’ names.

Files may also include birth records, marriage, military, or police records.

Registry Files (March 1929 to March 31, 1944) document the creation of immigrant arrival records for those entering the United States prior to July 1, 1924, and for whom no arrival record could be found. Most files also include documents supporting the immigrant’s claims regarding arrival and residence, i.e. proofs of residence, receipts, and employment records.

A-Files are the official files for all immigration records created from April 1, 1944, through May 1, 1951.

Should you make a genealogy or Freedom of Information Act request? Submit a genealogy request if you are requesting records of an immigrant who arrived before 1945 or naturalized before 1956. If you are searching for records of a naturalization

after 1956, or an arrival after 1951, submit an FOIA request.

The easiest way to file a request with USCIS is online at uscis.gov. There is no fee to file a Freedom of Information Act request, although you do agree to pay up to twenty-five dollars for research if the files are excessive, which I’m told is an extremely rare occurrence. Currently the genealogy program fee is sixtyfive dollars to have USCIS determine whether it has any records on your immigrant. If it does, you will pay sixtyfive for each copy of a file. Proposed increases to these fees, anywhere from $100 to $340, were recently requested

by USCIS and, if approved, will make this program out of reach for many. If interested, now is the time. FY Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of both the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists. Carol is also Vice-President and Board Chairman of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. Contact her at noellasdaughter@gmail.com.

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 7

Bingo

Calendar (continued)

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

FRIDAY

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............................................874-0559 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m............................................876-1038 ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO. 4932 Clark St., Hamburg 7:30 p.m............................................649-9821

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

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

WEDNESDAY AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m............................................822-6400 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C — SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m.................................................681-7251 LANCASTER ELKS 33 Legion Parkway, Lancaster 7 p.m.................................................685-1478

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

OUR LADY OF HOPE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 1530 Kenmore Ave., Buffalo 1:00 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

THURSDAY AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst St., Buffalo 7 p.m.................................................875-9276 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

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.)........................... 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

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

up to $2560 IN PRIZE MONEY

+ STW, RWB & Bonus Ball.

Progressive STW Jackpot Game.

Live. Local. On-Air. Online.

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

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 9

Bingo Calendar (continued) SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m........................... 1-800-421-2464 ST. AMELIA’S RCC 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m.................................................836-0011 ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m............................................892-0425 ST. JOHN XXIII 1 Arcade St., W. Seneca 7 p.m............................................... 239-2787

Thursday, & Friday 7:30pm Sunday 7pm $10 Admission Package

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

Progressive Number & Bonus Ball  Queen of Hearts  Bell Jar  50/50 

Air conditioned, fully handicap accessible, pizza, snacks and drinks.

St. Andrew’s School McNulty Hall 1545 Sheridan Drive 716-873-6716 





BINGO

Sundays 1:00pm

Saturday 7:30pm

No Game Under $50

$1,000 Progressive with $250 Consolation

Average Payout Over $4,000 3 SUPER Round Robin Games Progressive Share the Wealth $300 Consolation Two $450 Round Robin Games TWO Bonus Balls Played Each Night Regular Bonus Ball and Golden Bonus Ball Guaranteed $1,000 Game Played Weekly

Bonus Ball 70/30 Split

Queen of Hearts & Bonus Ball

$10 Admission Package EARLY BIRD (PLAYED AT 12:50PM)

Average Payout Over $3,000 4 Regular Round Robin Games Share the Wealth 60/40 Split Rags to Riches with $300 Coverall

Sponsored by

Cardinal O’Hara Home School

$2 Admission No prize under $60

Sponsored by

Cardinal O’Hara Booster Club

Oktoberfest MEAT RAFFLE – October 20th – doors 6pm, first spin 7pm $10/advance, $12/door – to benefit the Home School Association * HANDICAP ACCESS *

* CONCESSIONS *

* PLENTY OF PARKING *

* AIR CONDITIONED BINGO HALL *

39 O’Hara Road • Tonawanda, New York • 716.695.2600 x326 (Take Delaware to Joseph, 1st Signal North of Youngman, to O’Hara Rd. to O’Hara High)

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

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

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED to help run BINGO at Cardinal O’Hara Saturdays • 6-9:30pm Festive, family-oriented and fun! Come make new friends!

To learn more, call the school office at

716-695-2600

FEATURE

Not just for carving Pumpkins are versatile and nutritious STORY AND PHOTOS BY AMY LYNN HARDY

A

s spooky season comes to a close, keep your decorative gourds and pumpkins because many of them are edible and delicious—just verify they’re fit for eating before biting in. Sweet or savory, pumpkin is a versatile food that is low in sugar and loaded with fiber and vitamins—such as vitamins A and C, beta carotene, and potassium—which aid in immunity as well as eye, skin, and intestinal health. Raw pumpkin seeds, known as pepitas (they come out of the white shell), are also nutritional powerhouses, rich in antioxidants, aiding in bladder, prostate and hearth health, and protecting against certain types of cancer. More of these in your diet could give your health a boost.

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Candied pumpkin atop a bed of greens Photo by Amy Lynn Hardy

If you picked up gourds or pie pumpkins at any of our Western New York pumpkin patches, get a sharp knife and begin chopping.

If they’re too hard, which many are, soften them by baking before chopping. Pumpkin and gourd recipes range from soup to bread to risotto and pasta sauces. These foods are delicious, hearty, and satisfying for dark nights and inclement weather.

Pumpkin soup is a great way to get a large helping of veggies all at once. Add sour cream and sweet

chili sauce to the soup base once it’s been puréed, then top off with a drizzle of pumpkin seed oil. If you make extra, the soup can be frozen and saved for a later date, say, if another lake effect snowstorm hits and you get stuck at home. This also goes for pumpkin sauce, which has a cheesy, savory flavor that, over pasta, could replace the less healthy macn-cheese as a cold-weather comfort food. Add broccoli or spinach for a hit of greens or spice it up with Frank’s Hot Sauce.

FEATURE There is so much more to do with pumpkin: slice it thin and put it on pizza dough with goat cheese, spinach, red onions, and cranberries. (Try a sour cream base in place of red sauce; it’s great!)

Roast pumpkin slices in the oven with olive oil, salt, and sage to top a salad. Purée pumpkin and make your own pumpkin spice latte mix-in; it has less sugar than coffee shop versions and you can make it as creamy as you’d like. Candy your pumpkin with cinnamon and walnuts for a delicious yogurt or ice cream topping. Search “pumpkin recipes” in your favorite internet browser for even more possibilities.

Nutty, savory pepitas are a great addition to many meals. Toss a handful on your salad for healthy crunch or blend them with cream cheese, garlic, and pumpkin seed oil for a delicious dip or cracker spread.

If you bake bread, top the loaves with seeds, as they taste wonderful roasted as well. And if you enjoy

snacking while watching a holiday movie, roast the seeds directly out of the pumpkin with two tablespoons of Everything Bagel seasoning for a satisfying, fibrous treat.

Winter is coming, so prepare for Western New York weather with the seasonal goodness pumpkins can provide palate and body.

Pepita Dip 1 oz. pepitas 1 garlic clove 7 oz. cream cheese 1 Tbsp. pumpkin seed oil Salt and pepper to taste Blend ingredients in a food processor until well-mixed. Serve with crackers, baguette or veggies.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Mix-In 1/3 C. pumpkin puree (fresh or canned) 1 C. sugar (cane or brown) 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract 1 3/4 C. water

1/4 C. white cooking wine (optional) 3/4 C. shredded mozzarella cheese or nutritional yeast 1/4 C. grated parmesan cheese

1 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1/4 tsp. ground cloves 1/4 tsp. ground ginger Pinch of salt Combine ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce to medium heat and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring intermittently. Once it has reached a syrupy consistency, remove from heat and let cool. Refrigerate in an air tight container and add to coffee or lattes as desired.

Cheesy Pumpkin Sauce 2 C. pumpkin puree (fresh or canned) 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 small onion, chopped 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. onion powder 1/2 - 1 tsp. black pepper (depends on preference) 2 Tbsp. butter or oil 1 C. milk of choice

Heat butter or oil in a saucepan until melted. Add chopped onion, then garlic, and sauté until translucent. If adding optional wine, do it now, and stir. Add milk and continue stirring. Add pumpkin puree and mix well. Add and stir in all the cheese until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth. Stir in salt, onion powder, and pepper. When sauce has a thick consistency, it’s ready to use on pasta, rice, steamed veggies, chicken, etc. Optional: top with extra Parmesan cheese and Frank’s Hot Sauce. FY Amy Lynn Hardy is a former teacher and freelance writer.

November 2023 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 13

FEATURE

Slow and steady Win the day with minimal effort

BY TARA ERWIN

T

his time of year, we’re looking for dinner ideas that require minimal effort, so that between coming home from work and dashing off to a holiday concert, lights display, or settling in to catch up on our favorite shows, we don’t have to worry about “what’s for dinner?” The answer: slow cookers.

Invented by Irving Nachumsohn, the slow cooker received its patent in 1940 and enjoyed modest success until 1970 when Nachumsohn sold

his business to Rival Manufacturing.

Rival rebranded the slow cooker as the Crock Pot, the “set it and forget it” appliance we all know and love,

and it became a kitchen staple.

Each of the following three recipes represent a specific memory or feeling from our contributing cooks, and each promises to yield tasty, satisfying results.

Rival’s Retro Mac and Cheese: My mother had an early version of the Crock Pot that sported the brown and tan decorative colors du jour, and one of our family’s favorite Crock Pot meals by far was macaroni and cheese, which was surprisingly creamy and flavorful. This recipe, from the lovingly used and tattered Rival recipe booklet that accompanied Mom’s circa 1980 appliance, is perfect for a family-friendly weeknight meal or can be used as a base for a festive gathering, where partygoers customize with toppings like tomato slices, breadcrumbs, chives, lobster, crab, or chicken.

Rival’s Retro Mac and Cheese 3 or 4 C. cooked macaroni Sauce: 2 C. evaporated milk 1/2 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. salt 2 Tbsp. minced onion 1 egg (beaten) 2 C. cubed cheese (cheddar or American) 2 Tbsp. butter

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

Put all sauce ingredients in the Crock Pot and stir well. Cover and cook on high for one hour, stirring occasionally. Add cooked and drained macaroni. Cover and cook on low for three to five hours. For a thicker recipe, add one beaten egg to the sauce mixture before adding macaroni.

Homesick Chili: Jaurdyn Johnson has been a multimedia journalist with WKBW-TV Channel 7 since August 2022 and although she loves Buffalo, she admits missing her home state of Montana sometimes. “Whenever I miss Montana or my family, I make this chili,” she says. “It’s super simple and reminds me of October’s crisp, cool mountain air in Big Sky Country.” And it’s ready in only two hours.

Homesick Chili 1 lb. ground beef 2 onions, diced 1 jalapeno pepper, diced and seeded (can keep a few seeds for a spicier chili) 1 can black beans, undrained 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilis, undrained 1 can corn, undrained 1 can light red kidney beans, undrained 1 can beef broth 1/2 C. distilled white vinegar 1 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. coriander 1 Tbsp. chili powder 1 Tbsp. garlic powder Olive oil for sautéing Add olive oil to a large frying pan and sauté onions, ground beef, and jalapeno until vegetables are softened and beef is no longer pink. Drain fat.

Add mixture to slow cooker, then add remaining ingredients. Stir, and cook on high for two hours or low for four hours.

Italian Beef Sandwiches: This recipe is always a hit at Casa Erwin, whether it’s for a fun weeknight meal or gameday treat. I love it because it’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require fancy ingredients or pre-prep. My husband and kids love the tangy flavor, au jus for dipping (“dunkability” at our house), and gooey melted cheese on top.

FEATURE

Italian Beef Sandwiches 1 boneless beef chuck roast, between 3-4 lbs.

12 oz. beef broth or stock 12 oz. light beer (we use Blue Light) 12 oz. jar sliced pepperoncinis, drained 1 packet Italian seasoning mix 8 oz. Provolone cheese 6 hoagie rolls

Place roast in the slow cooker. Add other ingredients in order; do not stir. Cook on low eight to ten hours, depending on the size of your roast.

Remove beef from slow cooker and shred on a welled cutting board.

Add everything back to the slow cooker mixture and stir.

Slice hoagie rolls; toasting is optional but we like the added crunch.

Using tongs, place shaved beef slices and pepperoncinis over the bottoms of rolls and top with Provolone. Place under your oven’s broiler and watch carefully; broil until cheese is melted and bubbly (this should only take a few seconds). Remove from oven.

Top with the other roll halves and cut sandwiches in half. Ladle au jus in individual ramekins or small bowls and serve. FY Tara Erwin lives and writes in Western New York.

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FEATURE

“Above all, Lasagna Love values kindness.”

Lasagna Love Spreading home-cooked kindness

BY REAGAN ZUBER

T

he COVID lockdown of 2020 created worldwide feelings of helplessness and isolation. In response, mother and chef Rhiannon Menn founded Lasagna Love, a platform connecting neighbors to home-cooked meal delivery.

What began as a grassroots way to help moms in her neighborhood has blossomed into a global nonprofit with 45,000 volunteers delivering 3,500 meals a week who have spread kindness to more than 1.5 million individuals across three countries. Menn has been featured in Forbes, Women’s Day, the Washington Post, the Today Show, the Kelly Clarkson Show, and Good Morning America. This past summer in Buffalo, Lasagna Love teamed up with Galbani Cheese to promote at the Buffalo Italian Festival and appeared on local news stations on National Lasagna Day to spread awareness.

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“It’s a great way to give back to your neighbors in need and see exactly where your efforts are going,” says volunteer and Spree employee Rachel Wasserman, who participates in a way that works with her schedule.

“You are literally cooking in your own kitchen on your own time. It can be every day, once a month, or once a year.” Anyone can volunteer and there are no requirements for the number of times you participate; do as much or as little as you like.

Jenn Belkota, dual county leader for Niagara and Erie County, became involved in December 2021. “I was looking for something more to do for the holidays to promote giving and kindness in my daughter’s eyes,” she says. “I wanted to show her it’s good to give if you can. It doesn’t have to be a pricey meal. You can go as cheap as you need to, [and] although lasagna should be the first option for a requestor’s meal, you can definitely make a meal you both agree on.

“It’s given me leadership skills that I didn’t know I had,” Belkota continues. “It’s also given me a lot of networking opportunities. It made

my daughter want to do more things like this, and she’s only five. I had an elderly request during the holidays in December 2022, and my daughter lit right up as she wanted to be the one to hand the meal over to the lady.”

Above all, Lasagna Love values kindness. “This agency is something the country and the world need,” says Belkota. “It promotes kindness not just to the needy. Anyone can request, for themselves or anyone in their lives who needs a break from cooking in today’s hecticness.”

Lasagna Love promotes a kindness pledge on its website and social media. When you sign up and share, you pledge to: • Spread kindness in your community • Offer help when you see someone in need • Commit random acts of kindness that delight and inspire • Empower others through positive acts and words • Visualize value and worth in everyone around you To request a meal for yourself or a loved one, sign up as a volunteer, or sign the kindness pledge, visit lasagnalove.org. Schools and organizations who require community service hours can also contact the organization as an option to fulfill requirements.

The results will warm your heart, says Wasserman: “After a drop off, I received a text from the recipient later that night that her five-yearold daughter said it was the ‘bestest’ lasagna she ever had.” FY Reagan Zuber is Assistant Editor of Forever Young.

FEATURE

Healthful cooking For one (or two)

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

C

ooking for one, or even two, can be challenging. It may be tempting to turn to fast food, or open a can of something processed, but those aren’t the healthiest options.

If you find a recipe you like, don’t Meal kit delivery services like be deterred because it serves at least six.

HelloFresh are flexible enough to You can always freeze leftovers (mark meet any lifestyle. Step-by-step recipes freezer bags with contents and date), come with nutritional information and if you don’t want to, then simply and fresh, premeasured ingredients. If reduce the recipe by a third to a half you don’t even want to do the cooking, to meet your needs. Alternatively, seek many grocery stores carry fresh readyout recipes intended for just one or two to-eat meals as well (though they can diners (see sidebar). And if you’re feeling get pricy!). lazy, salads, omelets, pasta, and stir fry If you’re tempted by the convenience dishes make good single serving meals. of microwaveable packaged frozen meals, check nutrition facts before buying. These meals may not contain the nutrients you require and usually have high amounts of sodium.

Consider them a backup for when fresh food won’t work.

The experts at HelpGuide, an Healthy Cooking for One independent non-profit that runs one Cookbook: 75 Delicious Recipes of the world’s leading mental health Made Simple by Lauren websites, says, “The key to cooking O’Connor for one is to master a few basic skills, stock up on essential ingredients, and The Ultimate Cooking for One get creative in making meals that work Cookbook: 175 Super Easy specifically for you.”

Recipes Made Just for You by They suggest cooking a little extra Joanie Zisk and inviting a co-worker or neighbor Cooking for One or Two by to join you. Try sharing cooking Heidi Reuter Lloyd responsibilities by taking turns preparing entrees and desserts.

30-Minute Cooking for One: If you’ve never considered yourself 85 No-Waste Recipes Made much of a cook, skip the grocery store Easy by Amelia Levin and shop at a community or farmer’s Taste of Home’s Cooking for market. You might pick up some One or Two cooking tips. Take a cooking class. Or

Cookbooks for the solo cook

invest in convenient and useful devices like a slow cooker, toaster oven, hot plate, rice cooker, or steamer.

The American Heart Association (AHA) offers a few basics on how to cook “deliciously for one” that begins with stocking your pantry with shelfstable items.

Canned tuna can help meet the AHA’s recommendation of eating fish—preferably oily fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids—at least twice a week. Use tuna to make a sandwich or stir it into low-sodium pasta sauce with chopped peppers and a dash of paprika for a Spanish sauce. Tuna can turn into a salad by adding grated carrot, celery, raisins, and curry powder. Substitute low-fat plain yogurt for mayo. Tuna with apples and sunflower seeds makes a tasty salad topping.

Canned beans, after being drained and rinsed, can be added to mixed greens, vegetables, and sunflower seeds for a lunch or dinner salad.

Make a quick soup by microwaving a sweet potato and pureeing it with beans and low-sodium chicken broth.

Sauté beans in a bit of olive oil and garlic for three minutes, add lowsodium tomato sauce, and serve over whole wheat noodles.

While brown rice is a good choice, add different flavors and textures to your meals with pearled barley, whole wheat couscous, bulgur, or whole grain corn grits.

Use low-sodium or no-salt tomatoes to make a simple personal pizza. Heat canned tomatoes with dried oregano and garlic or garlic powder. Spoon the mixture onto whole wheat pita bread

and top with a little low-fat mozzarella and fresh vegetables.

If you make a big batch of red sauce, pesto, or low-fat white sauce, freeze it in ice cube trays, then transfer to a zip-top plastic bag. Tomato sauce can be reheated in the microwave. Defrost pesto and white sauce by dunking the freezer bag in hot water. Serve over cooked vegetables or whole grain noodles.

Tortilla chips and pita bread can be kept in freezer bags in your freezer.

Cut two corn tortilla chips into eight slices, spray them with cooking spray, and turn them into warm corn chips after eight to ten minutes in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Top with drained and rinsed canned beans, green peppers, chopped tomatoes, and a sprinkling of low-fat, low sodium cheese. Voila—nachos!

Frozen fruits and vegetables are versatile additions to your menu.

Frozen vegetables tossed into lowsodium chicken broth makes a bowl of soup. Try topping it with a cooked egg or stir in shredded chicken breast.

Add frozen fruits to a batch of corn muffins or spoon them over whole grain toaster waffles. Create a smoothie by whipping frozen fruit and low-fat milk in a blender.

Once you’ve taken the time to prepare a meal for yourself, use a nice place setting and a linen napkin. No eating out of the pan over the sink. You deserve an elegant dining experience, even if you’re eating alone! FY Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer.

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BEING WELL

Meals for all to enjoy Addressing food sensitivities at the holidays

BY CHRISTINE A. SMYCZYNSKI

I

t’s the holidays! Time to pull out all your favorite recipes and indulge! However, if you, a family member, or guest has a food sensitivity or allergy, it can be tricky to plan a holiday meal that everyone can enjoy–but not impossible. was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at be life-threating. If you have a food First determine what sensitivities thirty-one. Just a few months ago my sensitivity or allergy yourself, let your and allergies you have to accommodate.

You likely know what foods to avoid for middle son, at age thirty, was told to host know and offer to bring a dish that you know you can eat. When your immediate household, but when avoid raw vegetables that can aggravate attending a gathering, don’t be afraid his pollen allergy. Lactose intolerance inviting extended family and friends to ask questions about ingredients and, or bringing a dish to a party, it’s best is common; it affects me, as well as all obviously, don’t eat something if you’re to ask if there are issues you should be four of my children.

Top food allergens are milk, eggs, not sure what it contains. aware of—even if you think you know.

If the sensitivities extend beyond you Allergies can develop in anyone at any wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, to your family, it’s often less stressful and peanuts.

While some of these time; my daughter was in her early to offer to host a holiday gathering. twenties when her gluten sensitivity cause relatively mild symptoms, such Even if it’s more work, you can control became apparent, and my oldest son as digestive upsets, other reactions can COME HOME TO

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2023

what foods are served. For large buffet gatherings, you can even label foods— gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, etc.— to eliminate guesswork.

Since my daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease, I serve gluten-free foods and even use separate cookware for those foods. With so many glutenfree options available in most grocery stores, it’s easy to prepare a glutenfree meal; most of the time, no one can detect the difference in taste or texture, not even my youngest son! For the holidays, I’ve learned to make all of our favorite recipes gluten-free— baked goods, pasta, pierogi—no one can taste the difference. I haven’t had regular (gluten containing) flour in the house for years.

I also try to lower sugar content when cooking for the holidays. In addition to my oldest son, several friends and extended family members have diabetes. A few months ago, my son requested lasagna for his birthday dinner. When looking at sauces in the store, I was surprised to see some had ten grams of sugar or more, while some had as little as three grams. I picked the sauce with the least sugar, used gluten-free noodles so my daughter could partake, and even found lactosefree mozzarella and ricotta cheese. The lasagna turned out great and everyone enjoyed the meal. (Sometimes, using lactose-free substitutions affects texture. For example, for pudding, use Lactaid brand milk; if you substitute soy or oat milk, the pudding might not set properly. (Lactaid also makes a product, an enzyme sold in chewable and swallowable forms, that lactose intolerant people take with their first bite of cheesecake, farmers cheese pierogi, ice cream, etc. I often joke that we have a box of Lactaid on the table next to the other condiments.)

The key to planning a holiday meal that everyone can enjoy is to gather information, plan ahead, and be creative! FY Christine A. Smyczynski is the author of several travel guides about Western New York and New York State. In addition, she has written hundreds of articles on a variety of topics for local, regional, and national publications.

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RADIO

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From the desk of WECK Radio owner and local business advocate Buddy Shula BIG WECK AND BIG WECK 2 If you love the fifties, sixties, and seventies, you’ll love the BIG WECK, America’s number-one oldies station. However, there are so many cool songs from those thirty years, it’s hard to play them all on just one radio station.

So, we listened to you, and have created BIG WECK 2: a radio station with no antenna needed that plays “lost favorites,” “one-hit wonders,” records’ B-sides, and deeper cuts from your favorite era of music.

If you love traditional Christmas music, you’ll be pleased to learn that BIG WECK 2 will be playing holiday favorites 24/7 from Thanksgiving to Christmas for a Christmas like the “ones you used to know.”

Listen to the BIG WECK and BIG WECK 2 on 1230AM, 102.9FM, 100.1FM, 100.5FM, online at bigweck.com, on all voice-activated devices, or with the BIG WECK app.

Have a great Thanksgiving!

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NOTEWORTHY November 4 FREE “Lights, Camera, Action” Senior Prom

November 18-19 42nd Annual Great Buffalo Train and Toy Show This show features more than 350 vendor tables, multiple operating model railroads, demonstrations, door prizes, refreshments, and more. The event is wheelchair accessible with free parking. Admission is $8 and free for ages twelve and under.

Buffalo Toronto Public Media invites older adults to dress up, socialize, dance, and dine!

Enjoy live music from the Boys of Summer, dinner from Chef’s, a photo booth, and favorite tunes from the fifties, sixties, and seventies. To RSVP, call 845-7000 x0 or find the event on Eventbrite. The event is handicapped accessible and has free parking.

4-7 p.m., Buffalo Toronto Public Media Studios (140 Lower Terrace, Buffalo)

10 a.m.-5 pm. on Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday Hamburg Fairgrounds Event Center (5820 South Park Avenue, Hamburg; trainweb.org/wnyrhs/trainshow.htm)

Opens November 24 A Christmas Story In the 1940s, nine-year-old Ralphie Parker wants nothing more than a genuine Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher, and even Santa Claus himself at Higbee’s Department Store. The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out!” Enjoy your favorite movie moments on stage.

November 25 Disney’s Frozen in Concert: Film with Live Orchestra Celebrate the tenth anniversary of Frozen with a screening of the film as the BPO performs the score live under the baton of Ron Spigelman. Bring the grandkids; costumes are encouraged!

Buffalo native John Scherer stars as Ralphie. Photo by Parker Slaybaugh

Lancaster Opera House (21 Central Avenue, Lancaster; lancasteropera.org, 683-1776)

42nd annual Greater Buffalo

TRAIN & TOY SHOW Saturday, November 18 — 10-5 Sunday, November 19 — 10-4 The Event Center at the Fairgrounds G 5820 South Park Ave, Hamburg G More than 350 Vendor Tables G Operating Model Railroads in N, HO, S, + O Scales G WNY NMRA Division Meeting with Clinics + Demonstrations G Operating Lego Layouts & Activities G Railroadiana G Basket Raffle/Door Prize G Collectibles G Slot Cars Presented by WESTERN NEW YORK RAILWAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Adults $8 G Age 12 and under FREE Wheelchair Accessible G Free Parking

trainweb.org/wnyrhs/trainshow.htm G 716-837-1791

Image courtesy of Disney

2:30 p.m., Kleinhans Music Hall (3 Symphony Circle; bpo.org, 885-5000)