buffalohome
LOVING WHERE WE LIVE
DENINE JACKSON ON THE COVER
Designing with Purpose and the Vision Behind
Denine Jackson Interiors - page 5 -
creating memorable events that exceed expectations
photography: @photosbyjacalyn
@pistilandpollen
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On the big day, when she revealed the reception tent to us, my jaw was literally on the floor. We can’t thank Miranda enough for
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Alexis Bandera - Buffalo Wedding Photographer
DESIGNING with PURPOSE
article: HAVERLY ERSKINE photography: AVALON MOHNS
A MOMENT OF TRANSFORMATION
Denine Jackson still remembers the moment that changed everything. A long-time client had just walked into her newly redesigned living room—a once dark, cluttered, and uninspired space. The client gasped as sunlight streamed through the sheer drapes, illuminating soft textures and thoughtfully curated décor. Tears welled in her eyes.
“I finally feel at peace in my own home,” she whispered.
For Denine, this wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about transformation. Spaces have the power to shape emotions, and she knew then that her work wasn’t just about furniture and color palettes. It was about crafting environments where people could truly thrive.
Interior design isn’t just about making things look good. It’s about creating a space that aligns with how you want to feel and live every single day.
AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR LIFESTYLE
With years of experience in design, Denine Jackson Interiors has built a reputation for seamlessly blending beauty with functionality. Whether working with a young family needing a practical, stylish home or a professional seeking a serene retreat, Denine believes every space should reflect the people who inhabit it.
Her approach is deeply personal. She doesn’t just ask about color preferences or furniture styles—she asks about routines, stressors, and dreams. “A home should be your safe place,” she explains. “It should support and inspire you.”
THE JOURNEY TO INTERIOR DESIGN
Denine’s path to design wasn’t linear. With a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Cornell University, her career started in a very technical space. “At first, I thought I would work as an engineer in food science or pharmaceuticals. I enjoyed problem-solving and optimizing systems, and those fields seemed like a natural fit,” Denine shares.
After working in technical fields, Denine came to an important realization: “I’ve always been a creative—I just hadn’t given myself permission to explore that side fully.” But her chemical engineering background, emphasizing analysis and problemsolving, would influence her design work, as she explains, “Research and design have something in common—both require seeing beyond the surface, identifying the root of a problem, and developing a strategic solution.”
Eventually, she took the leap, immersing herself in the industry, and finally founded Denine Jackson Interiors. She honed her craft through hands-on experience, learning that the best spaces aren’t just visually stunning but deeply intentional.
THE SIGNATURE STYLE
Denine describes her style as “classic with a contemporary twist.” She gravitates toward timeless elements—neutral palettes, elegant textures, and high-quality materials—but loves to infuse them with modern touches.
“It’s about balance,” she says. “You want a home that feels fresh and current but won’t feel dated five years from now.”
This philosophy resonates with her clients, who appreciate her ability to create sophisticated yet livable spaces. Whether incorporating cues from earthly elements like wood, plants, and neutral stone, or adding accents for warmth or a modern edge, she ensures every design is uniquely tailored.
Photography: Three Sixty Views
THE CLIENT-CENTERED APPROACH
One of Denine’s hallmarks is her profound collaborative process. She believes good design isn’t dictated—it’s discovered together. “I’m not here to impose my style on anyone,” she says. “My job is to listen, understand, and bring my clients’ visions to life in a way that exceeds their expectations.”
Her process involves detailed consultations, mood boards, and interactive discussions. She encourages clients to be open about their needs and preferences, ensuring the final result is both functional and personal.
A CLIENT’S EXPERIENCE: VANESSA GLUSHEFSKI’S TESTIMONIAL
Denine’s clients frequently rave about her ability to turn vision into reality, and Vanessa Glushefski is no exception.
Vanessa first heard about Denine through a friend who had hired her for a home improvement project. “We met at my house, and I really liked how she presented herself, her ideas, and I admired her style and creativity,” Vanessa recalls.
Her first project with Denine was window treatments, which went wonderfully. But the second project—transforming a dated, uninspiring space—truly showcased Denine’s talent. “The room had some great features, but it was outdated, and I despised the 80s-style wood and blue wallpaper,”
Vanessa says. “Denine came up with some truly brilliant ideas, like hiring a muralist to paint a theme, hiring painters to paint over the outdated woodwork, and finding some truly beautiful pieces for the room.”
The process was smooth and collaborative. Denine visited the space, took measurements, and sent over ideas. “For the sunroom/puzzle room project, we would send ideas back and forth via email or text. It was a great idea-generating process that led to a stunning result,” Vanessa shares.
“It was such a joy to work with her,” she says. “Denine is extremely funny, creative, and great at solving problems. She’s willing to listen and work with your feedback, and I felt like she truly had my best interest in mind. I look forward to working with Denine on more projects.”
COMMON DESIGN MISTAKES AND NAVIGATING EXPECTATIONS
Like any industry, interior design has its challenges. From managing budgets to aligning with a client’s vision, Denine has learned the art of navigating expectations. One of the biggest design mistakes she sees, especially in renovating older homes, is trying to force a new-build aesthetic into a historic structure without respecting its original charm.
"Many people come in with Pinterest boards filled with beautiful spaces, but they don’t always consider the unique qualities of an older home," Denine explains. "Instead of stripping away character, I believe in enhancing it—using colors, textures, and layouts that feel fresh but still honor the home’s history."
This respect for history shapes Denine’s approach to design, especially when modernizing Buffalo’s charming older homes. She emphasizes the importance of balancing functionality with character, ensuring the home’s essence is preserved while making it more suited to today’s lifestyle.
"A lot of people are so eager to make everything look new that they forget about the warmth and authenticity these homes bring," she says. "My job is to listen, understand, and help clients find ways to live better in spaces that have their own stories to tell."
This challenge—blending old with new—often involves rethinking how spaces function, from storage to layout to lighting. "I start by listening to how my clients live," Denine explains. "Once I understand their pain points, whether they’re redesigning their current space or looking to purchase and renovate an older home, I develop a plan to help them fall back in love with the space without compromising its original charm."
As my business grows, I’m focused on renovating Buffalo’s older homes to suit modern families, while integrating sustainable design. It’s not just about pretty spaces— it’s about creating homes that make people feel happy, comfortable, and truly themselves.
WHY DENINE JACKSON IS THE PERFECT PARTNER FOR YOUR DESIGN JOURNEY
A home should be beautiful, practical, and connected to the people who live in it. Denine helps her clients achieve this with less stress, fewer regrets, and better results. She brings both an analytical and creative perspective, guiding clients to make confident, informed choices about layout, materials, and design. Denine ensures the home is optimized for their lifestyle and feels intentional and personal, not just trendy.
PRACTICAL DESIGN TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR SPACE
Repurpose Unused Rooms: Consider how you use your space. If a room is collecting dust, repurpose it. It doesn’t have to stay as the room it was originally designed for.
Layer Your Lighting: Lighting is crucial. Older homes often lack proper lighting, so Denine recommends adding overhead, task, and accent lights to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Stylish Storage: Clutter can make even the most beautiful spaces feel chaotic. Maximize storage with built-ins, hidden compartments, or well-organized cabinets. A well-placed basket can be a lifesaver!
Photography: Three Sixty Views
the home team
SALES
LAURIE ABBOTT
Marketing Consultant
EDITORS
SARAH CHRIST
Designer + Photographer
KARA IVISON Assistant Creative Director
CONTRIBUTORS
SUZIE WELLS Lead Content Writer
KAITLIN DONNAN
Proofreader/Content Writer
HAVERLY ERSKINE
JEN YUND
JACKIE GEORGEN Contributing Writers MANAGEMENT
STEVE HARRISON President
MANUEL KARAM General Manager
KELLY NOLAN Creative Director
local life
pg. 14 Dance, Feast & Celebrate the Irish Way with the Buffalo Irish Center and Rince Na Tiarna
pg. 18 Enjoy The Health Benefits of Tea Time with @soulinbloom
pg. 24 Take breathtaking budget-conscious adventures with @basictravelcouple
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kSince its inception in 1986 and based in the Buffalo Irish Center, Rince Na Tiarna (which translates from Gaelic to ‘Lord of the Dance’) has been synonymous with awardwinning, stunning dances.
DANCE, FEAST,
+ CE�BRATE The Irish Way e
Meet Mary Kay Heneghan, Rince Na Tiarna founder who also serves as a teacher and choreographer and has elevated the school to national and international acclaim!
In all of your travels for competitions, what has been your favorite place to visit? I have so many favorites, but judging the World Championships was such an honor and Scotland is beautiful. The Australian Nationals in Sydney was also an amazing experience and definitely a bucket list destination.
Since founding the school, what moments stand out to you? That the school is still thriving after 35+ years! I have taught thousands of dancers and am now teaching their children. Of course, winning our first All-Ireland in teams as well as the World Championships in solo dancing. And any time a beginner starts to dance and they learn the first jig step makes me very proud.
With several accolades and accomplishments under their belt, it is no surprise that the school has reached such critical acclaim and become a leader among Irish dance schools nationwide. Kevinah Dargan, 2005 winner of the World Championships, has returned to RNT, thrilled to teach at the school to which she attributes her success!
What are some of the highlights of your career? In my competitive days, definitely when I won the world championships in 2005! Dancing professionally, one would be dancing at Shea’s Theatre for hundreds of our family, friends, and students. It was such a full circle moment. Also performing at Radio City Music Hall; dancing on a stage that big for so many people was incredible.
What was it like to be the youngest dancer in North America to win a World Championship?
I was 11 years old when I won Worlds. I could not believe it and was just in shock the whole week. I really don’t think it fully set in for me until about a month after. This is an Irish dancer’s ultimate dream!
How fun was the Macy’s Parade? The Macy’s Parade was amazing. Unfortunately, the day of the Parade, it was downpouring, but we are Riverdance and I don’t think many people can say they have actually done Riverdance in the rain!
What are your biggest takeaways from dancing? The life lessons and the friendships. It takes a lot more than just talent to be a successful Irish dancer. It requires a good work ethic, positive self talk, good mentality, the ability to take corrections and the ability to work well with others. These are all things that have helped me far outside the Irish dancing world and will continue to help me my whole life.
2024 St. Patricks Day Parade in Buffalo with some of the Rince Na Tiarna 2024 World Qualifiers
Mattie with her teachers Mary Kay Heneghan & Kevinah Dargan
If you could give advice to prospective students or teachers, what would it be? Be kind to yourself and your teammates; not every day is going to be a good day. We all have bad days and that is completely normal. Learning how to deal with those days and grow from them will only make you better! Come into every class with a good attitude and ready to give 100%. You will never regret anything if you give it your all every time.
Céad Míle Fáilte!
ST. PATRICK’S DAY IN THE HEART OF THE IRISH DISTRICT
Located in South Buffalo, the Buffalo Irish Center (BIC) has stood as a testament to Irish heritage for 55 years. After moving from the First Ward, Irish immigrants established what was originally a social club that has grown to offer music, dance, poetry, art, education, and Irish language lessons.
Meet Mattie Pennington, one of Kevinah's students and a senior who has been dancing for the last 13 years!
What first drew you to Rince Na Tiarna? My aunt signed me and my cousins up for Irish dance lessons, and I’ve been hooked ever since!
What have your experiences been like? A majority of the best experiences throughout my life I owe to Irish dance. I’ve had opportunities to travel the world for competitions, meet my absolute favorite people, and perform locally for friends and family. I got to compete in Ireland on a team with some of my best friends in 2023. We had so much fun traveling and competing together and made so many amazing memories while bonding!
What are you looking forward to with RNT? Competing as a team is one of my favorite things about dancing. I love getting to dance with others and bond with my teammates. I’m also preparing for the World Championships this April in Dublin and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to compete overseas again!
What would you tell a new student? Have fun and stick with it! The Irish dance community has some of the most supportive and kind people, especially within our school at Rince Na Tiarna. When you start dancing, you get to develop a ‘dance family’ that is irreplaceable. Performing at local St. Patrick’s Day shows is something suitable for any level, and it’s one of the most fun parts about Irish dance!
What does your future hold for dance? As my competitive career begins to slow down, I would love to start looking towards opportunities to dance professionally. There are so many shows out there, such as Riverdance, that tour all over the world and perform exciting shows constantly. I would also love to be a teacher someday. I’ve grown to love helping young beginners and helping others in my class with choreography or steps!
“It’s a home for community,” says Tim Flanagan, Chair of the Board of the BIC. He has spent his entire life here, as his grandparents were founding members of the club. “Not every city has a center like Boston or Chicago, so people will come from all over and often keep coming back.”
The Center on Abbott Road serves as a gathering place for nearly all Irish organizations in Buffalo. With its wrought iron shamrocks and road signs written in Gaelic, it truly lends itself to the heart of the Irish District. The BIC is completely volunteer-based, free, and welcoming to all, regardless of whether they are a member or Irish.
Housed in the building is a library where anyone can come and learn about Irish heritage, the Rince Na Tiarna Irish dance school, and the local Gaelic football and hurling club. Meeting rooms—such as the Emerald of Claddagh Room—can be rented for various events, from wedding receptions to showers to birthday parties, and the building is one of the few places in South Buffalo that has its own parking. The BIC also features a full bar and restaurant that operates from Tuesday to Saturday with wing specials, dances, and live music on Saturdays with a mix of genres and local bands.
While the Center serves to preserve heritage, Tim’s favorite thing about it is “The history, the fact it’s a home for Irish in WNY. Everyone comes to gather there for a common culture and common goal.”
Located at 245 Abbott Road in Buffalo, the Buffalo Irish Center will host a month of St. Patrick’s Day events, including music and live dancing! Check their website buffaloirishcenter.com or Facebook and Instagram @BuffaloIrishCenter for more information.
(L) Buffalo Irish Center’s Mural, artwork by Tara Bystran-Pruski (R) 2024 All-Ireland Ceili Team with Kevinah and Mary Kay
CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS | CUSTOM BEDDING AREA RUGS | LIGHTING | HOME ACCESSORIES western new york’s finest interiors
SPACE PLANNING | FURNITURE
Graciel Evenstar is the creator and owner of The Soul in Bloom, a tea apothecary based in Williamsville. While tea can be enjoyed in any season, its many benefits go beyond simply offering comfort or refreshment. It’s the perfect drink to explore when you want to feel good and support your health!
ARTICLE BY JEN YUND
Teas aren’t meant to replace medical advice; rather, they come with personalized herbal guidance to support each person’s unique health journey.
Tea wasn’t always Graciel’s first career. She spent decades as a floral designer, with a side interest in organizing tea parties for groups and special occasions. In her 40s, she traveled to Istanbul, where she first tried rose petal tea, which she describes as “the elixir of my life.” This sparked her passion for herbal blends, and when she decided to transition away from floral design, a friend encouraged her to expand her offerings beyond just roses. In 2017, Graciel dove into herbalism, purchasing a library of books and educating herself on the healing powers of plants.
Herbal tea is much more than a simple beverage. Drinking herbal teas help the body heal itself. Each plant contains healing components that work together to support the body’s overall balance, while extracting the highest vitamins and minerals. Herbal teas enter the bloodstream quickly because they don’t need to be digested, making them an effective way to deliver beneficial ingredients to the body. So, whether you’re sipping it for relaxation or refreshment, you’re actively caring for your health!
Graciel believes in sourcing as many local ingredients as possible, but she also acknowledges the challenges in finding them. While she forages plants locally when she can, she often relies on plant emporiums that provide organically grown herbs and flowers. “There are no local sources of organic herbs grown in the quantity I require for my blends,” she says.
Evenstar
Graciel
Teas and Tisanes: The Blending and Benefits
It’s important to note that “tea” and “tisane” are not the same thing, although they are often used interchangeably. True tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant—think black, green, or oolong tea. Tisanes, on the other hand, are infusions made from other plants, such as herbal teas.
Graciel focuses on creating wellness blends that go beyond simple refreshment. “My goal is to help people feel better,” she says. “I advocate for nature as a healing ally in the quest for health, and I create blends based on the needs and requests of my customers. My teas aren’t meant to replace medical advice; rather, they come with personalized herbal guidance to support each person’s unique health journey.” These aren’t random mixes— each blend is thoughtfully researched to meet specific needs.
Herbal tea is much more than a simple beverage. Drinking herbal teas helps the body heal itself. Each plant contains healing components that work together to support the body’s overall balance, while extracting the highest vitamins and minerals.
With her background as a floral designer and an herbalist, rose petals as a consumable herb are most important to her. Here are a few of her regular ingredients:
Dandelion leaves:
As a component of an herbal tea blend, these are packed with iron and Vitamin C. Their bitterness activates the digestive system, making them a natural aid for weight loss. They are also a healthy diuretic, restoring the body’s potassium levels instead of diluting them.
plantain leaves:
A ubiquitous “weed” like dandelion, these are a favorite herb in Graciel’s tea blends. Plantain is one of the best plants to remove toxins from the blood. It helps clear up mucus infections, aids the liver and helps with acid reflux.
rose petals:
As a tea they soothe the nervous system, have more antioxidants than green tea, are a source of Vitamin C, and offer emotional healing for grief.
Self-Care Through Tea
Hygge is a Danish and Finnish word describing the feeling of coziness and contentment. As we transition from winter to spring, the need for hygge feels especially fitting. Graciel says, “If we are ever to be balanced within, we as individuals must learn to put society’s demands aside and mimic the wisdom of the natural world. As winter gives way to spring, it’s a time to reflect, rest, and rejuvenate. It means nourishing our bodies and souls with time alone, time outside, and focusing on sustainable wellness practices. I embrace this season with creative hobbies, reading books, and of course, sipping warm herbal tea.”
Tea is a great drink option any time of day, all-year round. Graciel considers it her favorite self-care practice as she sips herbal tea throughout the day to stay hydrated while nourishing and nutrifying her body. She starts each day with a cup of tea and a lit beeswax candle to calm and focus herself.
You can find Graciel at markets and events throughout Western NY, teaching in-person herbal wellness classes, and online at www.thesoulinbloom.com or on Instagram:
FROM BUDGET TO BREATHTAKING basic travel couple
Through savvy credit card strategies and a passion for local experiences, the Basic Travel Couple inspires budget-conscious adventurers to explore the globe—without breaking the bank.
Written By HAVERLY ERSKINE
Lisa Kulpa first caught the travel bug during a college study-abroad program in Australia, but the prospect of traveling on a budget seemed daunting after graduation. That all changed when she met Dave Musielak in November 2015. Their shared passion for exploring the world and saving money led to the creation of Basic Travel Couple, a Buffalo-based blog and online community for budget-conscious travelers.
Their journey into affordable travel began unexpectedly during a class on credit scores, where another attendee mentioned using points and miles for travel. Intrigued, Lisa and Dave dove into research, and by the time Lisa's flight to Arizona landed, they were ready to explore the world of credit card rewards travel. Their first major trip together was to Costa Rica, followed by a month-long celebration of their 30th birthdays in Thailand. These adventures solidified their commitment to exploring the world affordably.
Founded in 2018, Basic Travel Couple shares the knowledge Lisa and Dave have gained about using credit card reward points to reduce travel costs. This strategy allowed them to focus their budget on activities, excursions, and food, making their travel experiences more accessible. Their mission is simple: explore as much of the world as possible while embracing different cultures and sharing their insights with others eager to travel on a budget.
INSPIRING OTHERS TO TRAVEL
Though Basic Travel Couple doesn’t sell traditional services, it provides valuable information on navigating credit card rewards travel. Through their Facebook group, Basic Travel 101 ~ Points, Miles & More, and their Instagram account (@basictravelcouple), Lisa and Dave offer tips, share the latest credit card offers, and foster a supportive community for travelers. The group connects like-minded travelers, shares credit card offers, and provides tips on maximizing points and miles. It’s an inclusive space where members share advice, answer questions, and celebrate travel victories.
Their blog is a passion project alongside their full-time jobs— Dave is a high school counselor, and Lisa manages a real estate portfolio. The couple earns a small commission from affiliate links to credit card offers, which helps maintain the blog. Ultimately, their goal is to empower others to travel affordably by using the same strategies that have allowed them to explore the world at a fraction of the cost.
Through Basic Travel Couple, Lisa and Dave aim to inspire others to dream big and travel smarter. Their journey proves that with the right strategies, traveling the world doesn’t have to be a luxury reserved for the wealthy—it can be a reality for anyone willing to learn and explore.
TRAVELING ON A BUDGET
Lisa and Dave’s expertise lies in leveraging credit card rewards to book flights and accommodation at a fraction of the usual cost. Here are their top tips to help others become budget-savvy
• Use versatile points from cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve, which allow for bookings across multiple airlines or hotel
• Research budget-friendly destinations and accommodations using tools like Google Flights, Skiplagged.com, or hotel points
• For beginners, consider traveling to countries with lower living costs, like Thailand, and save on meals by grocery shopping, taking advantage of hotels with free breakfasts, or exploring
The couple emphasizes the value of flexibility and preparation. By strategically planning their wedding spending to earn points, they booked luxurious Qsuite flights on Qatar Airways—complete with private suites, gourmet dining, and top-tier amenities—and secured free Hilton accommodations, enjoying an unforgettable six-week honeymoon that began in the Maldives without
“TRAVEL CHANGES YOU. AS YOU MOVE THROUGH THIS LIFE AND THIS WORLD YOU CHANGE THINGS SLIGHTLY, YOU LEAVE MARKS BEHIND, HOWEVER SMALL. AND IN RETURN, LIFE - AND TRAVELLEAVES MARKS ON YOU.” – The late Anthony Bourdain
TRAVELING WITH A BABY
Travel changed for Lisa and Dave in 2023 when they welcomed their son, Miles. Their first trip as a family of three was when Miles was just four months old. “It was way easier to travel before he was walking!” Lisa shares. “He used to nap a lot more and just kind of chill.”
Despite the added challenges, they’ve embraced traveling with their son. Lisa’s top tips for traveling with a baby include:
• Pack smart: Use packing cubes to separate clothing, don’t grab all the toys, and rely on local resources like buying diapers at your destination.
• Invest in a versatile stroller: Their stroller doubled as a trolley for transporting their belongings at airports.
• Bring a baby carrier, especially for tours or locations where strollers aren’t practical.
• Travel light.
• Leverage hotel resources: Most hotels provide pack-and-plays, which simplifies packing.
Traveling has become trickier as Miles grows, but watching him experience the world is worth every challenge. “Seeing him take in new places is the best experience,” Lisa says.
“TRAVEL HAS SHOWN US HOW HAPPINESS TRANSCENDS MATERIAL WEALTH.”
– Lisa Kulpa
LOVING LOCAL DINING
The joy of eating local, authentic dishes goes beyond just satisfying hunger—it’s a way to connect with the culture of the place they’re visiting. Asking locals, including hotel staff, for recommendations has often led them to fabulous finds that might not be immediately obvious to tourists. Whether it’s a hidden café or a popular local dish, these food experiences often become some of the most cherished memories from their travels.
Experiencing the local cuisine is an essential part of their travel adventures. Staying at larger resorts can sometimes limit food options to expensive resort restaurants, so they often eat off-resort for more affordable and authentic dining experiences. A great way to discover delicious, budget-friendly meals is by seeking out local food markets or farmers markets, which offer fresh, traditional foods at a fraction of the cost of tourist spots.
Lisa and Dave also turn to documentaries about the countries or cities they're visiting before their trips to get inspiration for local dishes and hidden gems. They’ve found that wandering through neighborhoods and walking into restaurants not necessarily listed on a map often leads to the most unexpected and delicious meals. Whether finding a
EMBRACING MINIMALISM AND CULTURAL LESSONS
Travel has profoundly influenced Lisa and Dave’s lifestyle. Observing minimalist cultures encouraged them to live more simply and focus on meaningful experiences rather than material possessions. These days, they prioritize collecting memories over souvenirs, opting for a single magnet from each destination as a memento.
Interacting with locals has been humbling and eye-opening for the couple. “Travel has shown us how happiness transcends material wealth,” Lisa shares. “People with far less than us are often the happiest and most giving.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Lisa and Dave are optimistic about the future of travel but acknowledge the challenges posed by over-tourism. “Certain destinations, like Machu Picchu, already limit the number of daily tourists to protect their natural beauty,” Lisa notes. They expect these measures to become more common as global travel continues to become popular.
Their focus now is on raising their family and continuing to share their passion for travel with others. “We love hearing that we’ve inspired someone to visit a destination they never thought possible,” Lisa says. “That’s what keeps us going.”
MASTER THE ART OF AFFORDABLE TRAVEL
Traveling on a Budget – The Basics
• Use credit card reward points to book flights and accommodations.
• If you’re just getting started, consider backpacking or traveling light to save on luggage costs.
• Grocery shop for easy meals like sandwiches or snacks to reduce dining expenses.
• Take advantage of hotels offering free breakfast and limit dining out to one meal daily.
• Travel to destinations with a lower cost of living, like Thailand, to stretch your budget further.
Finding Affordable Accommodations
• Book with points: Start by selecting your destination. Search for major hotel brands to see if you can book directly with points.
Discovering Budget-Friendly Flights
• Use flight search tools: Check Google Flights or Skiplagged.com for options to fly for less if you’re flexible with destinations and dates.
• Leverage points for flights: For specific destinations, search online for “Flights to [Destination] on points” to find booking tips. Focus on earning versatile points from banks. Transfer versatile points to multiple airlines for better options, unlike single-airline points like United.
Eating Well While Traveling on a Budget
• Explore local markets: Visit food or farmers’ markets for fresh, affordable meals and snacks.
• Opt for off-resort dining: Eating at local restaurants near your hotel is often cheaper than dining at resorts.
• Watch food documentaries: Research destinations beforehand by watching documentaries for food ideas and hidden gems.
• Trust spontaneity: Some of the best meals are discovered by wandering and trying unlisted spots.
• Ask for recommendations: Hotel staff can often recommend great local eateries.
for the home
pg. 32 Sweet Buffalo: A City of Good Neighbors supporting two locals facing challenges
Kimberly LaRussa from Sweet Buffalo has always given so much to our community, and now it’s our turn to support her. Kimberly was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently in her third round of chemo, fighting with incredible strength.
As a loving mom, wife, daughter, and friend, Kim is always there for others. Buffawix Candle Co. is raising funds with their “You Make Buffalo Sweeter” candle to help Kim through this challenging time. As Kim says, “I get to see how much I am loved right now, and I’ll hold onto that love forever.”
Let’s show Kim she’s not alone. Every little bit helps. Together, we can make Buffalo sweeter.
order online at buffawixcandleco.com
MeetDakarai
sweet buffalo gives back
Dakarai Jackson Jr., a senior at Tapestry High School in Buffalo, NY, started his final year with high hopes but soon began feeling unusually tired and in pain. After a visit to the hospital in November 2024, he was diagnosed with Acute B-cell Leukemia and immediately began chemotherapy. This life-changing diagnosis forced Dakarai to miss school and his usual activities. In February 2025, the family faced another setback when Dakarai's father, Dakarai Jackson Sr., was laid off after 24 years at his job due to the company’s closure. With mounting medical bills and the added pressures of daily life, Sweet Buffalo is now calling on the community to help a friend in need. Donations are being sought to support the Jackson family as they navigate this incredibly challenging time.
<< scan to Donate follow on FB & ig @sweetbuffalo716
support kimberly larussa
Ryan Gott & Jeff Kramer
Rita C. from Tonawanda
CURLING 101
THE SPORT YOU NEVER KNEW YOU’D LOVE
Buffalo Curling Club (BCC) has continued this tradition at its home in the historic Buffalo China site. As the city’s only indoor curling facility, the entirely member-run club thrives on the passion and dedication of its curlers, coaches, and volunteers. Offering leagues, beginner programs, and specialized sessions for veterans, youth, and adaptive players, the BCC embodies the heart of a communitydriven sport that welcomes everyone—from curious beginners to seasoned veterans.
Through its many programs, the BCC proves that curling is much more than a game; it’s a bridge to camaraderie, wellness, and lifelong connections. Whether you’re drawn to the strategy, the social aspects, or the sheer joy of sliding stones down pristine sheets of ice, curling clubs may offer a place for you.
BCC ADAPTIVE PROGRAM
The Buffalo Curling Club hosts an adaptive program from January through April in partnership with Greater Buffalo Adaptive Sports. Established in 2020, the program welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels, including groups from Oishei Children’s Hospital. Instructors are specially trained to support individuals with a wide range of physical, cognitive, and sensory impairments. With wheelchair-accessible ice and adaptive equipment provided, the program ensures an inclusive and enjoyable curling experience for everyone.
BCC VETERANS PROGRAM KEEPS GROWING
Initiated by Dan Walther, a combat veteran who served in the Army and Coast Guard for 33 years and was inspired by his involvement in PGA Hope to explore curling’s potential for fellow veterans. Now in its third year, the Buffalo Curling Club’s Veterans program has grown exponentially, from just 8 participants in 2022 to nearly 200 today.
SUNDAY VETERANS PROGRAM
Each Sunday afternoon, over 20 veterans gather for the 22-week program to enjoy camaraderie and low-pressure competition.
Derek Henshaw, a 30-year veteran of the U.S. Army and National Guard/Reserve, reflects on the experience, saying, “I get to be with other veterans while learning a sport that is individual. Every throw is an opportunity.”
Patrick McGowan, VA Outpatient Recreational Therapy Coordinator, joins the group each week, proudly donning his Vet Rockers zip-up. McGowan, a passionate advocate for winter sports, places curling at the heart of veterans’ wellness initiatives. Veterans from Vietnam, the first Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Afghanistan have found the program beneficial in addressing wellness goals such as improved communication and aggression management. McGowan emphasizes the program’s inclusivity, saying, “Sport is for everyone. Everyone’s an athlete.” He has also observed a notable reduction in hospitalizations among participants.
Supported by the Basil Family of Dealerships, the program provides all necessary equipment, including grippers, brooms, and adaptive delivery sticks. Central to its success is the veterans-helping-veterans ethos, with many of the program’s trainers having served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard.
Seven veterans, along with McGowan, have taken their involvement further by joining the BCC as league players and substitutes, with one even learning to prepare the ice. As the program continues to grow, the BCC envisions hosting a VA bonspiel (curling tournament) in 2028. Veterans interested in joining the program are encouraged to contact the VA Healthcare Recreational Therapy Department for more information.
MARCH 8:
BCC Open
APRIL 5:
BCC Ladies Bonspiel
APRIL 25-27: Mixed Memorial Bonspiel
Go to the Buffalo Curling Club’s website for upcoming events, league play, programs, & to learn more!
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