Forever Young September 2023

Photo courtesy of the Chautauqua

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 Carol Ann Harlos, Olivia Guthrie, Jennifer Merrick, Kellie Mazur, Judith A. Rucki, Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits

Proofreader Sharon C. Levite

ART & PRODUCTION

Let’s keep learning

For me, September will always feel synonymous with “back to school.” But just because we aren’t going back to school this month, it doesn’t mean we can’t continue to learn.

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

When I was growing up, one of our family dinner rituals was to go around the table and share something we’d learned—proof that you really do learn something new every day! And while passive learning is great, research has shown that active learning offers many benefits, from brain health to feelings of fulfillment (read more about these in this month’s Being Well).

Director of Sales & Advertising

National Ad Director

Senior Account Executives

Barbara E. Macks

Terri Downey

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

DIGITAL

In this issue, we’re exploring different forms of lifelong learning: local classes, intuitive art, a new resource to aid in health education, and more. Our suggestions are

by no means exhaustive—if something interests you, hop on Google and see what kinds of learning opportunities are available. Especially in today’s world, virtual offerings may be an option if inperson is not.

I hope that you find exciting new learning experiences this fall—and that you learn something new every month when you read Forever Young.

Happy learning!

Robin Lenhard

Robin Lenhard

Web Master Kim Miers

FINANCE

Sabrina Kahwaty Executive Editor

Finance Manager

Dominic Caruso

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.

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.

Gowanda HEALTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE

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

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

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

Niagara Falls SENIOR COMPANION/FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM

Looking for seniors who enjoy working with their peers or children. Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 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

Cheektowaga For info, call Paula 984-3512

Cheektowaga For info, call MaryAnn 895-4414

Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 385-7558

Farnham For info, call 934-9619

Lancaster For info, call Eva 407-0539

Silver Creek For info, call 680-0313

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

West Seneca For info, call 474-9125

Year of the…

National Garden Bureau

highlights plants in six different categories

Each year the National Garden Bureau selects one annual, one perennial, one bulb crop, one edible, one houseplant, and one shrub as its “Year of the” crops. Plants are chosen because they are popular, easy-to-grow, widely adaptable, genetically diverse, and versatile. This year’s winners are amaryllis (a bulb), household orchids, Celosia (a garden annual), Spirea (a flowering shrub), Rudbeckia (a perennial or an annual), and broccoli (an edible). You may have noticed these plants have been featured in gardening shows, garden webinars, and in gardening magazines throughout 2023. This publicity will ensure these plants and/or seeds are more likely to be readily available locally and online for several years.

Let’s look at these plants’ characteristics, growth habits, and ease of culture.

Amaryllis bulbs simply need planting in a heavy pot, in potting mix, pointed side up with the top of

the bulb uncovered. A little water and sometimes a little heat will initiate growing. Staking may be necessary

to prevent the heavy plant from tipping over the pot. I do not follow rules for getting them to rebloom; I let the plants grow. If they die down, I let them rest for a few weeks, then give them a bit of water. Thus, there is always at least one amaryllis in bloom at my house all year long. (They are fun to collect!)

“Household orchids” are orchids raised by growers and sold at low prices, covered with buds and ready to bloom, thus eliminating the need for buyers to induce flowering. Usually Phalanopsis, also called “moth orchids,” they are treated as disposable by many people. I, of course, find this sad;

Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan)

for me, it’s a thrill when an orchid is given the right conditions to induce flowering.

Celosia are annual here in the northern United States. They are easy to grow from seed, which not only saves but yields many colors. The flowers last about a month in the garden, so when the bloom has faded halfway up from the bottom, cut it off near the leaf joint. This not only encourages new flowering but multiple flowers as well!

Spirea prefer full sun not only for the shrub’s health but for flower production. Of the many spirea varieties, some are spring bloomers, some summer. The spring bloomers are more tolerant of some shade.

Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan) needs full sun with organically rich soil that drains well. If you grow perennial Rudbeckia, it needs to be divided every few years to maintain its vigor. I toss the seeds directly into the garden, then place garden cages over these areas so I don’t accidentally uproot the seedlings.

Broccoli needs full sun and organically rich soil, preferably with pH between 6 and 7 (acid to neutral). Its roots like moisture and coolness so mulching is important. You can’t control the weather, but you can add water as necessary during dry periods. Harvest broccoli plants when the center is full of buds. Floating row covers can prevent insects that lay their eggs on the young plants. (Surely

New Energy Efficiency Incentives Available Now!

Due to the increased pace of climate change, there has been a historic push from the federal government and New York State to incentivize energy efficiency upgrades for residential homes.

In April 2022, the federal government passed legislation to fund the single largest investment in climate and energy in U.S. history. This year, New York State is making significant changes to its own energy efficiency programs to make them better than ever.

What does this mean for you?

It means that you can get incentives, up-front, for installing insulation and heating and cooling equipment like heat pumps.

New York State offers some of the best incentives in the country

for energy efficiency projects. If you are on a fixed income like Social Security, New York State incentives will pay for all, or nearly all, of the cost of energy improvements for you home.

Can you really get the entire job paid for by the state?

Yes. If your income meets the program requirements, then insulation work is usually fully funded. Incentives for heat pump installations at income-eligible households typically pay 70 to 80% of the total cost of installation.

To find out more about income qualifications and how to apply for these programs, Google NYSERDA or contact Buffalo Energy at (716) 677-4899 to speak with a home energy advisor.

I told you about serving my family my first homegrown broccoli only to have green caterpillars float up in the water. Yikes!)

I am already thinking of next year’s garden! I love hearing from you: caharlos@verizon.net FY

CAROL ANN HARLOS

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.

Pink celosia

Advertorial

Reading old handwriting

Tips for transcribing genealogy documents

Somuch of genealogy research is about finding old documents—scanned, online, or from record offices— but as your research takes you further and further back, the handwriting on these documents can get tricky. Difficulties reading faded ink, unusual script, and poor penmanship, etc. can put a damper on the excitement you have at finally finding that church register, will, or court record. Over the years, I’ve learned several tips to make this process simpler.

Whenever possible, download, photograph, or scan. Especially with original documents, the less handling the better, but more than that, being able to zoom in or adjust

contrast and brightness allows you to see the document more clearly. Read the entire document aloud. Reading documents aloud, especially family items like diary

entries or postcards, can shed light on the meaning of words that might have been misspelled. It can also help you recognize commonly used words when penmanship is poor.

Make a cheat sheet. Create your own alphabet by identifying and tracing each letter in the writer’s style. Begin by finding letters and words that are recognizable and pay close attention to the thicker pen strokes that often begin words.

Know a little history. If something doesn’t make sense, it’s helpful to see it through the lens of time. Did you know that before 1828, there were no standard spelling rules in the US? Because of this, words were often spelled phonetically. In a letter written by a Confederate soldier to his family, he stated a friend had died of “new money” fever. He was referring to pneumonia or “pneumonie fever” as it was pronounced at that time. In addition, words often had different meanings. “Infant,” for example, was used to describe both a baby and a person under legal age. This could cause real confusion when charting your tree!

Learn common abbreviations. Recognizing abbreviations in a document is crucial in deciphering

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS

it. For example, the symbol @ sometimes replaced the word “per” such as “income @week.” A good online resource is Rootsweb Genealogical Abbreviations (rootsweb.com). Also, punctuation was rarely used and, when it was, its usage may not be familiar to us. For example, dashes or equal signs were often used to end sentences. Create a template for common documents. French documents have always been a challenge for me. But realizing how a typical marriage record, for example, has the same format allowed me to create a fill-in-the-blank template. Of course, each writer has variations, but the template helped me recognize letters and words much easier going forward. Document errors. It’s tempting to correct grammar or misspellings, but it’s important to transcribe documents exactly as written. My only exception to this rule is that I recreate the original with

punctuation, corrections, or clarifications added in brackets, which I believe just makes it more readable for future generations.

The very best way to improve your skills is practice, practice, practice. Becoming a volunteer transcriber really helped me. If you’re interested in becoming a virtual volunteer, check out the Library of Congress website at crowd.loc.gov for opportunities. FY

Carol DiPirro-Spitkovits 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.

“BeautifullyMaintained” –Louise,aresident

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

MONDAY

AMERICAN LEGION MCKEEVER POST

1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 822-6400

HAMBURG–KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg

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

MATTHEW GLAB POST

1965 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna

7 p.m. 825-3733

ST. AMELIA

2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda

7:15 p.m. 836-0011

TUESDAY

AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13

25 Review Pl., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 874-0559

ASSUMPTION PARISH

435 Amherst St., Buffalo

7:30 p.m. 876-1038

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar

ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO.

4932 Clark St., Hamburg

7:30 p.m. 649-9821

FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga

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

HARTLAND VFC 8945 Ridge Rd., Hartland

7:30 p.m.

2 p.m. (second Tuesday)

OUR LADY OF POMPEII

129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster

7 p.m. 683-6522

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30

WEDNESDAY

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

7

Bingo Calendar (continued)

SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

11099 Route 5, Irving

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

ST. AMELIA’S RCC

2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda

1 p.m. ...............................................836-0011

ST. ANDREW CHURCH

111 Crocker St., Sloan

7:30 p.m. 892-0425

ST. JOHN XXIII

1 Arcade St., W. Seneca

7 p.m. 239-2787

SUNDAY

CARDINAL O’HARA HIGH SCHOOL

39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda

1 p.m. 695-2600 x326

DELEVAN VFC

N. Main St., Delevan

7 p.m. ...............................................492-1910

LOCKPORT ELKS LODGE 41

6791 N. Canal Rd., Lockport

7 p.m (first and third Sundays). .......434-2798

OUR LADY OF POMPEII

129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster

2 p.m. 683-6522

SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

11099 Route 5, Irving

1 & 7 p.m. 549-4389

ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH

1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore

7 p.m. 873-6716

BINGO IN CANADA

GOLDEN NUGGET

655 Garrison Rd., Fort Erie

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

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

DELTA MONTE CARLO

4735 Drummond, N. Falls

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

CASINO

SENECA GAMING

Broad St., Salamanca

1 p.m. Sunday • 1 & 7 p.m. Wednesday

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

150 years of learning It never stops at Chautauqua Institution

pillars: arts, education, religion, and recreation.

The institution’s catalog reveals an arts-based focus with concerts, theater, dance, artists in residence, workshops, and classes in every discipline. Its 4,400-seat amphitheater hosts the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra along with dance companies and popular performances while the Bratton Theater presents plays by the Chautauqua Theater Company.

“I feel like I’m a kid in a candy store,” says Letro, whose unforgettable experiences include third row seats at a Diana Ross concert and a mesmerizing performance by violinist Joshua Bell.

Seeking to promote understanding and mutual respect, the institution’s religious component encompasses diverse faiths and belief systems with offerings from daily worship services to choirs to meditation.

BY JENNIFER MERRICK

“Youcome for a week and learn more than you would in a year,” says Cindy Letro, former AM Buffalo host and a regular at Chautauqua Institution (chq.org; 357-6250) since 2006, when she visited with her mother, a firm believer in lifelong learning. Letro shares her mother’s passion for knowledge and delights in a sanctuary that embodies intellectual growth, artistic expression, physical activity, and spiritual exploration.

The 750-acre-property, located on Lake Chautauqua about a ninetyminute drive from Buffalo, has roots back to 1874, when two ministers founded it as a summer retreat for Sunday school teachers. That

gathering evolved to include diverse educational and cultural programs. Today, more than 100,000 curious folks from all over converge annually to attend lectures, listen to concerts, and take classes.

“It really was the first lifelong learning institution,” says Emily Morris, Chautauqua’s senior vice president. She explains that its intended “for the purposeful use of leisure time” focuses on four

The beauty of the surrounding area and the lake as well as the institution’s leisure facility take care of recreation. Enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming on Chautauqua Lake, play golf and tennis on its courses and courts, or take exercise classes in the fitness centers. The property’s hiking trail encourages a connection with nature, and there are guided discovery tours each week along with bird walks, tree tours, and nature talks.

Education, the largest foundational pillar, is supported by lectures, discussions, a book club, and more than 400 special interest courses. Each week centers around a theme, which last summer included A Life of Literature; Freedom of Expression, Imagination, and the Resilience of Democracy; Friendship; National Parks; and Can the Center Hold? A Question for Our Moment. Special interest courses run the gamut and include things like ceramics, Photoshop, watercolors, jewelry making, culinary arts, health and fitness, and exploration of literature, history, government, and politics. Cliché but true, there is something for everyone.

Students of all ages participate in a culinary class at the Chautauqua Institution. Photo courtesy of the Chautauqua Institution

FEATURE

Learning also takes place beyond the classroom, particularly in the connections formed in the open discussions of ideas and viewpoints. New this year are the institution’s red benches. Sitting on one signals to others that you’re extending an invitation to have a chat.

“Conversations flow here from morning to night,” says Letro, who explains that this is just as much part of the experience as the programming itself because it stimulates gray matter when we step outside our comfort zones and broaden our understanding of the world. “We tend to get stuck in the same track, but at the Chautauqua Institution, we have the opportunity to break out of it.” FY

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

Beyond summer

Though most of Chautauqua Institution’s programming takes place in summer, events do occur in fall and winter. A forum on democracy takes place October 20-23 and a recital featuring Cuban dance company Malpaso happens Saturday, November 4.

Rhodes Scholar, formerly known as Elderhostel, is a not-for-profit organization that offers 5,500+ learning adventures to more than 100,000 curious travelers annually, including exclusive week-long fall learning adventures to Chautauqua Institution. Dates are September 3-8 and October 8-13, 2023, and May 19-24, 2024. roadscholar.org

Of course, it’s never too early to plan for next summer. Chautauqua Institution celebrates its 150th anniversary 2024 and programming runs from June 22-August 25. –J.M.

3rd Annual car show returns on September 30

The WNY Heritage Discover Center will host its annual Fall Car Show on Saturday, September 30th. The event will run from Noon – 4:00 pm and will feature dozens of cars of all makes and models on display, a food tent, disc jockey, and more!

Located at 100 Lee Street, The WNY Heritage Discovery Center is a mini museum campus housing the information and collections of many local historic and cultural organizations, like:

• Buffalo Irish Genealogical Society

• Steel Plant Museum

• Buffalo Lighthouse Association

• Buffalo Geological Society

The Center is an under-the-radar resource for both researchers and enthusiasts, alike, and hosts meetings and gatherings for these various groups in its welcoming community room.

Most significantly, the HDC serves as the base of operations for the WNY Railway Historical Society. The upcoming car show event is a fundraiser for the WNYRHS. While admission to the event is free, donations are always welcomed.

The next big fundraising event for the WNYRHS will be the annual train show at the Erie County Fairgrounds, scheduled for November 18 and 19. The event weekend will feature speakers and demos, collectibles, theme basket raffles, and a kids area including “Thomas”, Legos, and more!

AT

Railway Historical Society - 716-821-9360

Buffalo Irish Genealogical Society - 716-662-1164

Steel Plant Museum - 716-821-9361

Buffalo Lighthouse Association - 716-947-9126

Buffalo Geological Society - 716-864-2701

For a full calendar of the more events, visit http://www.trainweb.org/wnyhdc/events23.htm

painting encourages pure flow And allows you to explore your inner self

BY KELLIE MAZUR

“It’sall about slowing down and tuning into your own radio station to express something that needs more than words,” says Sophie Michaud, an intuitive artist at Painted Love Arts & Wellness Studio in Tonawanda. After years as an educator and administrator in schools, Michaud leveraged her passion for creativity to teach intuitive painting, a method of creating art that aims to explore and uncover aspects of the inner self. She has experienced the power of this approach firsthand.

When Michaud was days away from giving birth to her daughter in Buffalo, her beloved grandmother in France passed away. Unfortunately, she could

not travel to be with family for the services. Michaud processed this with art. “I went downstairs and cut through a big piece of canvas and just painted,” she recalls. “I

Students are encouraged to get out of their own way to listen to the answer inside. Photos by Sophie Michaud

painted what it felt like to be in that moment. The impossible moment between needing to be in France at my grandmother’s funeral and delivering a baby.”

With intuitive painting, Michaud was able to ask herself: What color is this grief? What

shape does it create? This becomes an image-based conversation with yourself, without the influence of others. She helps others tap into this technique.

“You can’t get intuitive painting wrong. That is what is so liberating. You’re not trying to reproduce

Finished pieces from a Journey to Recovery class. anything. You bypass the logical mind and get into a place of pure flow,” she maintains. “It’s more about the connection to ourselves than it is about making art.”

With a certification from MUSEA in California, Michaud leads intuitive painting classes in both group and private settings at the Painted Love Arts & Wellness

20 Years of Experience

Families

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Studio in Tonawanda. Themes for group sessions have included Sanctuary of the Heart, Journey to Recovery, and Soul Portraits. No matter what, it’s about the process of working with colors and shapes through questions that we’re asking ourselves. Twelve people painting within the same theme will create twelve vastly different pieces.

“When I invite people in, we talk about the overall class plan and agree to be together in that moment but not compare to one another,” says Michaud. “We acknowledge that we’ll be creating something that is deeply persona—in a room with other people.”

Despite this disclaimer, people will inevitably say, “I’m not creative!” which Michaud interprets as “When I compare myself to artists, I cannot do what they’re doing.” She assures, “We are all creative. Every decision you make creates something. When you access your colors and shapes, you are already creating the art of your life.”

These classes are especially popular for those fifty and older. Michaud attributes this to growing wiser. “There’s a depth of wisdom there. That demographic may no longer have children at home or

are approaching retirement and have more time to seek,” she says. “They give themselves permission to ask larger questions and pursue something totally different.”

Intuitive painting invites people to get personal with the questions they are asking themselves. Then, you get to see what you mean when words alone are not enough. “It really is come as you are. Get out of your own way,” she says. “Don’t have any expectations. Just listen to what your answer is inside.”

Michaud also offers Visual Intuitive Guidance and Coaching. These private one-on-one sessions are for people going through change who need a compassionate ear to create a way through that transition.

To learn more about Michaud’s group or individual offerings, visit sophie-michaud.com or email connect@sophie-michaud.com, or find Painted Love – Art & Wellness Studio or Artist Sophie Michaud on Facebook. FY

Kellie Mazur writes about art, culture and people in and around Buffalo, New York.

Michaud believes intuitive painting helps us express something that needs more than words.

Each year, Forever Young asks readers to vote for some of their favorite things in Western New York. We tally the votes, determine the winners, and announce them in our December issue. Ballots must be received by November 1.

DO

Favorite Weekend Activity

Favorite Theater

Favorite Outdoor Event

Favorite Park

Favorite Nature Trail

Favorite Place to Bring Kids

Favorite Outdoor Music Venue

Favorite Senior Community Center

Favorite Senior Living Swimming Pool

Favorite Senior Living Food Service/Dining

Favorite Senior Living Entertainment

Name:

Address: Email: Phone:

Complete the survey online (website below) or mail completed surveys to:

Forever Young Faves, 1412 Sweet Home Rd. Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228

VOTE ONLINE at www.surveymonkey.com/r/FAVES2023

Favorite Senior Living Exercise Program

Favorite Senior Living Outdoor Space

Favorite Volunteer Opportunity

Favorite Farmers Market

Favorite Veterans Program

SHOP

Favorite Garden Shop

Favorite Liquor Store

Favorite Pet Store

Favorite Local Brewery

Favorite Eyewear Store

Favorite Gift Shop

Favorite Estate Sale Company

Favorite Local Winery

Favorite Clothing Shop

Favorite Local Bookstore

EAT

Favorite Takeout Place

Favorite Italian Place

Favorite Chinese

Favorite Taco Place

Favorite Breakfast

Favorite Local Coffeeshop

Favorite Donuts

Favorite Bagel

Favorite Deli Sandwich

Favorite Hot Dog

Favorite French Fries

Favorite Beef on ’Weck

Favorite Fish Fry

Favorite Pizza

Favorite Wings

Favorite Greek Salad

Favorite Omelet

Favorite Sponge Candy

Favorite Custard

Favorite Ice Cream

Back to school!

Local education programs have a class for you

BY OLIVIA GUTHRIE

University Express

Erie County’s Department of Senior Services provides free courses to older adults through University Express. Following a traditional college schedule, classes are offered in semester format with an impressively exhaustive list including history, law, science, and finance, to name a few.

“Looking to learn about relations between the US and China? Maybe you want to know more about artificial intelligence? Are you interested in learning how to eat healthy on a budget? Looking for tips on how to prepare your garden for winter?” Program Coordinator, Katherine Earl asks. “University Express offered over

150 class topics, totaling around 320 sessions this past spring/summer!”

Students are neither tested nor assigned homework; instead, the program’s design allows seniors to further knowledge on topics they’re passionate about while meeting others who share those interests. For example, Forever Young garden columnist

Carol

Ann Harlos,

a certified Master Gardener of Erie County and former teacher, has taught many of the gardening classes and describes her courses as interactive presentations. “I do extensive research but draw greatly from my personal experiences on each topic,” she says; prospective students interested in gardening can expect “shared knowledge, stories, and time to ask questions. And laughter…we have fun!”

How to register

“When we are in session, participants call the location hosting the class to register,” says Earl, noting that seniors do not have to be members of hosting centers. Participants can also “hop” and attend classes at multiple locations. Program catalogs are shared on the University Express website and participating centers and libraries a few weeks before the semester start date. Registration for online courses is completed through the website (erie. gov/universityexpress), and “we also have over 175 recorded classes that you can watch on-demand,” says Earl. The fall session runs from October through mid-December, and spring/ summer runs May through July.

“Learning new things and connecting with others helps to keep us active and fulfilled,” says Earl. The socialization and program/location variety introduce new interests to explore; someone could “see a group of pickle ballers competing” or “learn about the book club at the library while waiting for class to start.”

It’s also a great way to make new friends. “We see people chatting with

Senior Housing Designed With You in Mind!

Whetheryou want to learn a new hobby or explore a third act career, there’s a continuing education program to suit your needs.

one another before class starts,” Earl observes, “and then they schedule a time to grab coffee.”

60 and Over Auditors Program

University at Buffalo offers New York State seniors free educational access through its 60 and Over Auditors Program. Seniors over age sixty are welcome to audit university classes free of charge for all semesters. Auditing is similar to being a registered student; participants will be provided with parking passes, enrolled in UB’s online system for students, and may need to purchase textbooks and materials,

Registration begins in early August for the fall semester, early October for the winter term, early December for spring, and early March for summer sessions. To apply, eligible seniors submit a form indicating which course(s) they want to audit. Acceptance into a class depends on course eligibility, available space, and permission from the instructor.

For more information and to register, visit buffalo.edu and fill out the Sixty and Over Auditor Form.

Among other ways to prioritize lifelong learning are taking affordable or complimentary certification courses online; attending themed workshops organized by local libraries, businesses, and museums; or checking out adult ed schedules in your town. We can learn through simple activities, too, like picking up a retired textbook from a family member or watching documentaries. Opportunities to learn are unlimited, and whatever method you choose will positively impact your cognitive health and social well-being. FY

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

JFS Program Liaison Starts Group Session for Caregivers at Local Place of Worship

BY MACY CLAWSON & TODD GEISE

In the early part of the year, our agency connected with a local woman in her sixties who was the primary caretaker for her aging mother. We explained the many services JFS has to offer and acknowledged the challenges faced with those who are deemed caregivers.

is brief yet all important interaction led to the beginning of many group sessions at one of our partners, a local place of worship. ese group sessions were specifically designed for caregivers to share their experiences and resources, and to collectively learn the necessary skills to aid with the emotional challenges that can arise with caregiving. What we have learned from this is that there is a need for additional caregiver support opportunities. We are actively looking at this as a way

to enhance our services and meet the needs of the caregiving community.

When we consider that Erie County has a population of more than 922,000 persons and that 20% of these persons are age 65 and older, that’s more than 184,000 who are caregivers for aging parents or who are receiving caregiving themselves.

We will continue to connect with those who need us, take in valuable feedback, and adapt our services to provide the necessary support to those who need it most.

For additional information on agency services, please visit www. jfswny.org or call 716.883.1914.

Macy Clawson is a former Jewish Community Services Liaison and Todd Geise is Director of Marketing.

FALL FOLIAGE

Come see the most beautiful hills in Western New York as the leaves change colors. Senior Fall Foliage rides available on October 6th and 13th at 1:00pm.

TICKETS: $22.00/Adults, $20.00/Seniors, Veterans, $19.00/Children

Weekends in October at 11:00am & 2:00pm Plus Wednesday October 11th & 18th

SANTA’S WONDERLAND EXPRESS

All aboard the Wonderland Express! Journey to the “North Pole” for activities the whole family to enjoy, including elf sleigh rides, family photos, mailing wish-lists, visiting the Elf House, and so much more!

TICKETS: $35.00/Adults, $32.00/Seniors, Veterans, and Children

November & December

For tickets call 585-492-3100 or visit aarailroad.com

OldSmarts™ University promotes healthcare empowerment

Geriatrician debuts educational website

BY REAGAN ZUBER

Robert Stall has dedicated his career to the care of older adults. After earning a degree in electrical engineering and computer science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, he attended medical school at University at Buffalo. He’s now been practicing more than twenty years, currently as owner of Stall Senior Medical in Amherst.

Dr.

After a lightbulb moment in the shower ten years ago, Stall now directs his extensive experience toward his website, OldSmarts™ University.

“We found that people are looking for geriatric information all the time, but often don’t know what to search or how to decide what advice is right for them,” says Stall, whose website aims to educate older people—along with family, friends, and health professionals— and empower them to be proactive about their healthcare.

“It’s not always ‘just getting older.’ People tend to be ageist even towards themselves,” Stall maintains. “My first key principle is that sudden change comes from sudden problems, and lots of times, treatment is possible.”

This educational platform will provide both services and

information. Stall’s key principles for self-advocacy and a “bill of rights” for geriatric patients will provide confidence and guidance in healthcare empowerment. Self-assessments on health and medication symptom checkers— where potential causes of symptoms can be identified from a list of medication—will help with selfawareness, education, and advocacy. There will also be courses on healthcare education that end with a quiz to ensure understanding. A final open-ended question allows participants to reflect on how they can apply what they learned.

One of Dr. Stall’s favorite phrases is “ask not what your doctor can do for you; ask what you can do for your doctor.” To promote selfadvocacy, a questionnaire on the site can be prefilled before doctor visits to identify potential problems, pain,

BECOME A FOSTER GRANDPARENT!

and symptoms. The printed copy can then by brought to the doctor to provide a more holistic look at patient health, which will made appointments both more productive and less stressful.

OldSmarts™ University aims to help not only with disease but also “dis-ease,” or other factors that inhibit quality of life, such as loneliness, boredom, pain, and depression. The goal is to be a onestop shop with a wide variety of information, specially curated by Dr. Stall and his staff, that will be practical for day-to-day life, e.g. how to pick a Medicare plan, how to avoid phone and internet scams, or new technology that may be useful.

A section aimed at family members and caregivers will provide tips for increasing quality of life, planning for the future, and educating others about basic concepts relating to geriatric healthcare.

Call today to learn more!

716-285-8224 x 228

In the future, Stall hopes to provide direct connection to him and his staff through the site. He also wants to provide live webinars and in-person seminars aimed at creating an informed and supportive community. While the program is still in progress, Stall aims to provide reasonable pricing in a subscription service and later hopes to partner with insurance companies to enhance their Medicare benefits and allow as many people as possible to have access to reliable and helpful information.

Oldsmarts.com expects to launch soon, with more phases releasing over time to expand the content and services, and ongoing evolution as information and resources change and grow. Dr. Stall welcomes volunteers to give feedback on a sneak preview prior to launch. Please email drstall@oldsmarts.com if interested.

“I want to help people directly,” says Stall. “I’m sixty-six myself, and I hope to be useful before I go by sharing my cumulative knowledge and experience.” FY

Reagan Zuber is Assistant Editor of Forever Young.

The Foster Grandparent Program matches volunteers age 55+ with children in classrooms throughout Niagara County.

Foster Grandparents provide support to children with special needs

Income-eligible volunteers receive a small, tax-free stipend.

Dr. Robert Stall

Photo courtesy of Dr. Robert Stall

• Aetna

• Amigone Funeral Home

• Anchor Health Choice

• Bath Fitter

• Bu alo Energy

• Bu alo Rehab Group

• Cardinal O’Hara Bingo

• Care Patrol

• Clarity Group

• Community Care Home Health Services

• Precious Memories

• Dengler, Roberts, Perna Funeral Home

• Dent Neurologic Institute

• Elderwood

• FayeBrooke Apartments

• Feel Rite Fresh Markets

• Field of Dreams Allegany

• Healthforce

• Heathwood Assisted Living and Memory Care

• Icircle Care

• Independent Health

• Inspire Dental

• Jewish Family Service of Bu alo & Erie County

• Nascentia Health

• People Inc.

• Riverview Professional Pharmacy

• Senior Benefits of NY

• Stern At Home Therapy

• Turtle Creek Apartments

• United Healthcare Community Plan

• WellCare

• Western New York Railway Historical Society

• WNY Heritage Press, Inc.

AND MANY MORE!

Keep your brain happy By learning for life

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

“Nomore pencils, no more books …”

That’s a little ditty some of us sang when school was out for the summer. Fast forward to adulthood and a Library Research Service study that tells us thirty-three percent of high school graduates don’t read another book the rest of their lives. Forty-two percent of college graduates never read another book after college.

Yet lifelong learning is good for our brains, mental well-being, and self-esteem.

Personal and professional development are two key reasons we continue to learn throughout life. When our understanding of the world is enhanced, we create more opportunities for ourselves and experience improvement in quality of life. Continued education can also lead to career advancements, plus help us gain practical skills and connect with like-minded individuals.

But lifelong learning can also mean indulging the natural interests, curiosity, and motivations that lead us to learn for the fun of it. For

ourselves, not someone else.

Lifelong learning skills are like soft skills. They relate to how we connect with each other and the world. In some ways, they are about building relationships. “Lifelong learning keeps our brains active and keeps us engaged with the world,” says Dr. Susan Palwick, retired social worker and English professor from the University of Nevada at Reno, is also a writer who has taken up weaving. “I think ‘use it lose it’ comes into play here. Keep your brain stimulated, and it will be happy. And more interests give us more things to do or talk about with friends.”

Need ideas? How about

drawing, painting, creative writing, photography, learning a foreign language, or playing a musical instrument? Or investment, history, woodworking, or a sport?

“Anything that interests us and actively engages us in problemsolving is helpful,” according to Palwick. “If there’s a social component, that’s great too, because loneliness and isolation are dangerous to our health. So, learning a language in a class is probably better than learning it from tapes, and playing an instrument in a band or orchestra is probably better than playing by yourself in your living room.

“Crafts—knitting classes or

groups, ceramics, woodworking— are great because they engage us physically, too,” Palwick continues. “Likewise, anything athletic, like dance classes, or exercise classes.”

Think it’s too difficult for seniors to learn something new? Experts at WebMD say, “Despite the changes in cognition that may come with age, older adults can still do many of the things they have enjoyed their whole lives. Research shows that older adults can still learn new skills and form new memories.”

If you aren’t sure where to start, Google local.aarp.org and check out AARP’s Virtual Community Center. You’ll find “free interactive online events and classes designed for learning, self-improvement, and fun.” Choose from exercise, cooking, car technology, Mah Jongg, and how to protect yourself from fraud.

The Buffalo & Erie County Public Library (buffalolib.org) also offers a variety of options. Listen to audiobooks, join or start a book club, access free computer classes, or attend a lecture series. There’s plenty more to explore, including Senior Resources, which has an entire section devoted to lifelong learning.

“We often think of learning as something that happens at school or on the job,” says Buffalo & Erie County Public Library Director John Spears. “But embracing a mindset that learning can—and should— occur throughout your entire life is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Begin by embracing your natural curiosity, exploring the things that interest you.

Set achievable goals that help define what you want to learn and by when. Make this a habit in your life, whether through attending classes, having intentional conversations with others, establishing a set time to read every day, or journaling about what you have learned. This will be a journey and not a destination. Enjoy that journey and allow yourself the freedom to constantly explore.” FY

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

From the desk of WECK

BREAKFAST IN SEPTEMBER

The BIG WECK, Buffalo’s Oldies Station, is now the exclusive home of JP’S Breakfast with the Beatles, every Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., following Ronnie D’s BIG WECK Polka Show Breakfast with the Beatles, the second-longest running Beatles show in America, has been airing locally for twenty-eight years. Now, you can hear it live on WECK.

Thanks to loyal listeners like you, the BIG WECK continues to be the dominant oldies station in Buffalo and across the country. When you get a Nielsen Radio Ratings Diary in the mail, we’d appreciate you writing down WECK. It helps us continue to bring you free, quality daily programming.

Listen to the BIG WECK on the radio at 1230AM, 102.9FM, 100.1FM, and 100.5FM, online, on the free app, or by asking Alexa to “Play the BIG WECK.”

Thanks, as always, and go Bills!

All the best,

Buddy Shula Owner /CEO

Radio

advocate Buddy Shula

Opens September 6 Guys and Dolls at MusicalFare Theatre

Guys and Dolls tells the overlapping love stories of high roller Sky Masterson and mission worker Sarah Brown, and lovable rapscallion Nathan Detroit—on a quest to find a safe place for his floating crap game—and Miss Adelaide, his fiancée of fourteen years.

MusicalFare Theatre

(4380 Main Street, Suite 123; musicalfare.com)

September 9-10 FREE Clarence Arts & Crafts Society Fall Holiday Arts and Crafts Show

Shop a fine selection of works from more than forty local artisans and enjoy a basket raffle. Free parking!

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Town Park Clubhouse and Large Pavilion

(10405 Main Street, Clarence; facebook.com/clarencearts)

September 7

Burchfield Penney Book Club: I, Black Pharaoh: Rise to Power with Emmanuel Kulu Jr.

Author Emmanuel Kulu discusses his novel I, Pharoah: Rise to Power, which brings to light accurate imagery of African kings never seen before by the western world.

6:30 p.m., Burchfield Penney Art Center  (1300 Elmwood Avenue; burchfieldpenney.org, 878-6011)

September 30 FREE

Explore Buffalo Doors Open

Enjoy exclusive access to twentysix downtown landmarks and historic sites. Registration is required for this family-friendly event. Visit the website to register and see all participating sites.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. (explorebuffalo.org)

Join

Wednesday, November 1, 2023 11:30 a.m. Registration | 12:00 p.m. Program

Salvatore’s Italian Gardens – 6461 Transit Road, Depew, NY 14043

The Red Kettle Luncheon has always been the major fundraiser for The Salvation Army, kicking off the holiday season and Red Kettle collections in the Buffalo community. This event serves as a celebration of the accomplishments and achievements from the past year and a look to the future work being done to restore HOPE and health to communities throughout Western New York.

Please know that your donation supports feeding those in need, provides workforce development for those seeking employment, offers shelter to families that are homeless, and is a source of HOPE to everyone that enters our doors.