February 2017 spree's special advertising section

SPREE SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS, FEBRUARY 2017

The WIDE WORLD of BUFFALO WEDDINGS

HealthTrends Taking care of your heart

Love on

four legs

BY REBECCA CUTHBERT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

50

TH

Birthday PA RT Y

!

Celebrating the 2017 BEST OF WNY 6:00-7:00 VIP*

July 21, 2017

7:00-10:00 General Admission*

* TICKETS ON SALE IN JUNE FICIA BENE RY: V I P P RESE NTE D BY:

P LATN I U M S P O N S O R:

S P O N S O R E D BY:

80

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The WIDE WORLD of BUFFALO WEDDINGS

SPONSORED BY

By Rebecca Cuthbert

O

ne hundred years ago, Buffalo was an enticing new home to many immigrants, and the Queen City became—and still is—a beautiful tapestry of cultural diversity. These rich cultures are often on display in the traditional wedding festivities that take place in myriad venues from historic churches, mosques, and temples to social halls, family homes, and gorgeous green spaces.

As the Emily Post Institute says in “Religious wedding traditions around the world” (emilypost.com/advice/religious-wedding-traditions-around-the-world), “That so many contemporary brides and grooms turn to these traditions is proof of their lasting power and significance— and attests to the desire of modern couples to invest their ceremonies with meaning and personal and historical context. It’s a way not only to personalize their ceremony, but to honor their heritage” German “Hochzeits” (weddings) According to germanculture.com.ua, lively German marital traditions include honking horns and breaking glass. The “Junggesellenabschied”—which sounds a lot like a cross-cultural bachelor party—is when “a few days

before the wedding, the groom and his male friends go to a pub or sometimes other places to drink and have fun.”

This may happen separately or in conjunction with something like a bachelorette party, with a twist.

“In some areas, (mostly in small villages), friends kidnap the bride, and the groom has to find her,” the website reads. “Normally, he has to search in a lot of pubs and invite all the people in (the pubs along).” And if he doesn’t invite those new friends? He gets stuck with the bill. Concedes the website, “Sometimes this ritual ends badly.”

Another pre-wedding tradition is the “Polterabend,” an “informal party the evening before the wedding, where plates and dishes (porcelain, not glass) are smashed.”

Because “Scherben bringen Glück”; shards bring luck.

Therefore, the bride and groom must sweep up every little piece, so as not to leave any good fortune lying on the floor.

On the wedding day, flowers are carried or worn by the wedding party, and also placed in the church. A large bouquet is also affixed to the hood of the wedding car, and a long car procession forms behind the new couple’s vehicle when they leave the church. The wedding guests all honk their horns at oncoming traffic, and folks honk back www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

81

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

to wish the couple good luck. Think happy traffic jam, with everyone smiling and waving.

Among other traditions, one has the bride tie white ribbons into her bouquet, then give them to guests as they leave the church. The guests tie them onto their cars—it used to be on their antennas; on newer cars, maybe it’s rearview mirrors?—to mark them as part of the wedding procession. Another custom is for the bride’s family to save their pennies to buy her wedding shoes.

Specializing in skincar e

Celtic weddings Celtic weddings often have a strong religious element, but there are also secular traditions couples enjoy.

These include following the classic wedding calendar, “handfasting,” and wearing a special style of wedding band.

According to ireland-information. com, traditional beliefs about when one should get married are summed up in this old wedding song “Marry when the year is new, always loving, kind, and true. / When February birds do mate, you may wed, nor dread your fate. / If you wed when March winds blow, joy and sorrow both you’ll know. / Marry in April when you can, joy for maiden and for

Microdermabrasion IPL® Permanent Hair Reduction ThermaVein® Noninvasive Facial Vein Removal Custom Facials Skincare Products

Linda A. Baldi-Perry Licensed Aesthetician

President of Spa Niagara®

(716) 205-0039

6932 Williams Road Niagara Falls, New York www.spaniagarausa.com 82

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

Sharing in the business of love for three generations, Watson’s is available at eight WNY retail locations or online at our beautiful new website.

man. / Marry in the month of May, you will surely rue the day. / Marry when June roses blow, over land and sea you’ll go. / They who in July do wed, must labor always for their bread. / Whoever wed in August be, many a change are sure to see. / Marry in September’s shine, your living will be rich and fine. / If in October you do marry, love will come but riches tarry. / If you wed in bleak November, only joy will come, remember. / When December’s rain fall fast, marry and true love will last.” (One wonders if discounts are available in March, May, July, and October.)

“Handfasting” is an ancient Celtic tradition that literally binds the couple’s hands, and is likely where we get the term “tying the knot.” “It is similar to an engagement, a time when both parties decide if they really wish to commit. In modern times, the tradition occurs on the actual wedding day, although in centuries past, the ceremony acted as a kind of temporary marriage,” says the website.

During the Middle Ages, Ireland was ruled by “Brehon Law,” and handfasting was a “proper form of marriage.” Later, when the act of marriage became more formal, handfasting transitioned to a symbolic ceremony.

Claddagh rings—depicting two

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

hands holding a heart topped by a crown, and meant to represent the friendship, love, and loyalty that make a happy union—are often recognized even by those not familiar with Celtic traditions. The crown points outward prior to the wedding and is reversed after the wedding, indicating that the wearer is taken. Says the website, “the Claddagh ring is one of the most widespread symbols of Ireland and is very much associated with marriage and romance.”

Other Celtic wedding traditions include the bride walking down the aisle with a lucky horseshoe, which her new spouse will affix above the door of their new home; serving traditional drinks like mead or “poteen” (potato whiskey); and of course, Irish or Scottish dancers at the reception.

Muslim weddings According to the Post Institute, “The Islamic faith is the second largest religion, and while it is not specific to the Arab culture, the traditions are seen most prominently in the Middle East and in Indonesia. Traditions will differ depending on culture, Islamic sect, and observations of gender separation rules.”

Leading up to a wedding, traditions

are meant to bring good fortune to the couple and to show thanks for the good fortune they’ve already found.

For example, “male friends and family of both the bride and groom will meet at the mosque on the Friday after the proposal. A ceremony called a ‘Fatha’ is then held, and prayers are spoken and arms are outstretched to thank God and to bless the fathers of the bride and groom.”

Women may have henna parties, “held a few days before the ceremony with the bride and her closest female friends and family members. Henna is meant to not only adorn the bride, but to protect her as well,” shares the Post Institute, which explains that various sects celebrate differently and no generalizations should be made about Muslim weddings. Some sects require men and women to stay separate during the ceremony, while others encourage men and women to mingle freely.

Some Muslim weddings include formal contracts, with accompanying ceremonies that can last for days. “There is a contract called the ‘Meher’ that is signed and read at the ceremony stating the monetary amount that the groom will give to the bride,” says the Post Institute.

“There are two separate parts to the contract: an amount that is given to the bride prior to the marriage and an amount that is given throughout the bride’s life. The Meher is considered the bride’s security and can be used in any way she chooses.”

The contract is signed during the Nikah (or Nikkah) when the groom states the details of the Meher in front of at least two male witnesses, who are both required to sign the contract. The bride and groom may then share a piece of sweet fruit.

Additional traditions include reading from the Qur’an, eating traditional foods, and congratulating the new couple with symbolic gifts.

Jewish weddings Jewish weddings are known for being vibrant and joyous, with guests participating instead of just watching. Some Jewish wedding customs are breaking a glass, getting married under a chuppah, and dancing the Hora.

Breaking glass can happen twice, first by the mothers of the bride and groom, to symbolize the seriousness of the relationship, then by the groom to signal the end of the ceremony (modern couples often choose

www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

83

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

For Your Special Day...

WNY

Plastic Surgery Celebrating 20 Years of Beauty

MEDICAL SPA • Laser Hair Removal • Laser Skin Rejuvenation • Microdermabrasion • Chemical Peels

• Botox® • Fillers • Kybella® • Waxing

• Facials • Makeup Application/Lessons • Vincent Longo Cosmetics • Bioline Skin Care

COSMETIC SURGERY • Breast Augmentation • Breast Lift

the

MEDISPA:

• Liposuction • Tummy Tuck

where

• Eyelid Surgery • Face Lift

• Forehead Lift • Rhinoplasty

SCIENCE and BEAUTY connect

Andrew P. Giacobbe, mdfacs BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON

Member Of The American Society For Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Member Of The American Society Of Plastic Surgeons

- Honored as a Top Doc for 8 consecutive years -

7 Hopkins Rd: Williamsville | 3040 amsdell Rd: HambuRg 716 634-5555 | WWW.WnyplasticsuRgeRy.com

to stomp on the glass together). Then everyone yells “Mazel tov” and the party starts!

“The chuppah, or bridal canopy, is one of the most symbolic and important (of the traditions that define a Jewish wedding ceremony),” says rabbibarbara.com. “The canopy itself is a symbol of God’s love above the married couple as well as the home that they will now share as husband and wife. The traditional chuppah (dating back to the 1300s) features open sky above to acknowledge God as Creator, who infuses marriage with deep spirituality and cosmic significance, while the chuppah’s four open sides symbolize the open horizons that the couple will share in married life together. For all of these reasons, it is most meaningful for Jewish weddings to be held outdoors with blue sky above, and below, a surrounding panorama of natural creation.”

Dancing the Hora is one of the most iconic parts of many Jewish weddings. “For me, one of the most fun customs is dancing the Hora,” says recent bride Sarah Einstein. “It’s a simple dance and easy to teach to anyone at the wedding who doesn’t already know it. It’s also joyful, and there is something lovely about having almost everyone dancing together.”

During the Hora, the wedding party and guests lift the bride and groom, in chairs, and everyone dances. The couple stays connected by holding a handkerchief together, symbolizing their bond. The tricks to safety here are strong chair-lifters and sturdy furniture!

Jewish weddings might also include the recitation of seven blessings, the drinking of ceremonial wine, and the reading of the Ketubah, which outlines what the groom’s responsibilities are to his new partner.

Latin American weddings Again, the Post Institute warns, we can’t assume anything about Latin American weddings (or any wedding really), because practices differ by country, region, and family. “A Latin American wedding will differ greatly depending on which Spanish-speaking country the traditions are based in, but in general the day is colorful and very festive,” the article says.

“Depending on the couple’s religious views, weddings (may) have a heavy Catholic influence.”

In one tradition, a lazo, often a rosary or silk cord, is symbolically draped around the necks of the bride and groom, and “the couple will wear it for the remainder of the ceremony

84

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

which affirms their unity and commitment. It is removed at the end of the ceremony.” This rosary may be a borrowed family heirloom, or something ornate that the couple keeps and displays in their home.

Another custom, according to the Post Institute, is for the groom to give his partner thirteen gold coins, las arras, that have been blessed by the priest. This represents Jesus Christ and his twelve apostles. In less religious ceremonies, they can represent a groom’s promise to provide for his wife and future children. Often, these coins are saved by the bride and kept in a special place.

In many Mexican weddings, mariachis play a very special role. Mariachi bands serenade the couple, then play lively music during the reception to get everyone dancing.

In Argentinian weddings, a fun custom replaces the bouquet toss, according to “Eight unique Latin American wedding traditions” (latina.com). The single women crowd around the large, tiered wedding cake, from which dangles many ribbons.

Each lady pulls a ribbon, and the one with a ring tied to her ribbon will be the next to get married.

The article also mentions the

www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

85

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

O

Serving Western New York since 1987

Daniel Buckley Proprietor

Michael Roberts Chef

716.352.1315

theotherwomancatering.com 86

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

“White Bell” in Guatemalan weddings. Placed at the entrance of the church, “The bell is filled with rice, flour, and other grains, which symbolize abundance and prosperity.

When the couple enters the church, the mother (of the bride or groom) breaks the bell as a sign of good wishes for the couple.”

The Post Institute also notes the “Money Dance,” which is popular at Latin American weddings, as well as in other cultures. Sometimes called the dollar dance in the United States, this is when guests pay money to dance with the bride or groom. Like wedding or bridal shower gifts, this money helps the couple set up their new life.

Buddhist weddings Buddhist weddings vary, since “the wedding has long been believed to be a secular affair in the eyes of many Buddhist communities,” according to the Post Institute. Without religious ceremony, couples were free to design their own events. Now, though, “(the wedding) has been blessed by the monks and allows couples to hold a small affair, (but each) ceremony will differ depending on the couple’s focus.”

This focus could be on Buddha, Dharma, nature, God, or creation itself. “The ceremony is not focused on religion (itself),” continues the article, “but rather on the couple’s promise to each other to live a harmonious and spiritual life.”

Before the ceremony, the engaged couple may visit a Buddhist monk “to make sure their horoscopes are aligned and show that they are a compatible couple.” A traditional betrothal ceremony, the “Chessian,” may be held to celebrate the coming wedding event.

A Buddhist wedding ceremony might include meditation and moments of silence to create inner peace for the couple and their guests; a shrine to Buddha surrounded by offerings of candles and flowers; and poems or songs recited or performed by the bride and groom to show their love for one another. These may be old favorites or something composed by the bride and groom, similar to how couples write their own vows.

Also, mentions the Post Institute, “Buddhist wedding vows are (often) repeated out of the “Sigalovada Sutta,” an important text from Buddhist scripture, in which Buddha discusses ethics and important practices, also considered a Buddhist code of discipline or ethics.

Hindu weddings The Post Institute says that “The Indian culture celebrates marriage as a sacrament or a ‘sanskara,’ a ritual (that) enables two individuals to start their journey together, as one. The Hindu wedding emphasizes three essential values: happiness, harmony and growth.”

A “Mangi” is an engagement party where the couple is blessed and given gifts. A “Mehndi,” held the day before the wedding, has the bride’s friends covering her in henna designs.

The Post Institute goes on to say that Hindu ceremonies are typically held on a day in “the bright half ” of the northern course of the sun, and that a wedding can last multiple days.

The ceremony often takes place outside “under a canopy called a ‘mandap,’ with a sacred fire.”

The ceremony itself has multiple elements, and includes extended family. One of these is the arrival of the “Vara Yatra,” when the groom and his family show up with singing and dancing, and are greeted by the bride and her family. Another element of the ceremony may be the “Hastamilap;” like handfasting, it is when the couple’s hands are tied together, here with cotton thread. “The multiple layers make it strong, symbolizing a strong marriage and an unbreakable bond,” says the Post Institute.

According to culturalindia.net, the elaborate customs do not stop with the ceremony. Post-wedding, “in the ‘Vidaai ceremony,’ the family of the bride gives her a sobbing farewell. Before leaving, the bride throws back three handfuls of rice and coins over her shoulders, toward her parental home,” says the website. “This is done to ensure wealth and prosperity remain in her home forever. On the arrival at the groom’s house, the new couple is welcomed by the groom’s mother, with a traditional aarti” (the lighting of a special lamp or candle). After that, there may be games and a lavish reception.

Weddings vary because of cultural and religious backgrounds, but also because every couple is unique.

However they mark the day, the goal is always to celebrate with friends and family. Whatever the customs at the next wedding you attend, join in and raise a toast, say a prayer, offer a blessing, or wish good luck for the happy couple.

Rebecca Cuthbert lives, writes, and cares for shelter dogs in Dunkirk. She is a frequent contributor to Spree and Forever Young.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

LOCAL WEDDING RESOURCES Abino Mills Glassworks 255 Delaware Avenue Buffalo, NY 14202 716-844-8299 abinomills.com All Season Rental 5885 Transit Road East Amherst, NY 14051 716-688-9531 rentrightnow.com Batavia Downs 8315 Park Road Batavia, NY 14020 585-343-3750 glowwessingexpo.com Brierwood Country Club 5324 Rogers Road Hamburg, NY 14075 716-648-2700 brierwoodcc.com Capello Salon & Day Spa 5422 Main Street Williamsville, New York 14221 716-634-4111 220 Franklin Street Buffalo, NY 14202 716-852-5600 9424 Transit Road East Amherst, NY 14051 716-639-8019 6462 Transit Road Depew, NY 14225 716-228-7111 capellosalon.com Chef ’s Restaurant 291 Seneca Street Buffalo, NY 14204 716-856-9187 ilovechefs.com

Make Your 1st Dance Spectacular!

Iacono

BALLROOM CENTER FREE Consultation Call Today! (716) 839-2690 www.iaconoballroom.com www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

87

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Diamond Hawk Golf Course 255 Sonwil Drive Cheektowaga, NY 14225 716-651-0700 diamondhawkgolf.com

Jeweler’s Studio 4130 North Buffalo Road Orchard Park, NY 14127 716-662-8228 thejewelersstudio.com

Doubletree By Hilton Niagara Falls 401 Buffalo Avenue Niagara Falls, NY 14303 716-524-3333 doubletree3.hilton.com

Millennium Buffalo Hotel 2040 Walden Avenue Buffalo, NY 14225 millenniumhotels.com

Excuria Salon & Spa 5725 Main Street Williamsville, NY 14221 716-839-3106 excuriaspa.com Fox Valley Club 6161 Genesee Street Lancaster, NY 14086 716-683-6161 foxvalleyclub.com Iacono Ballroom Center 2211 Kensington Avenue Amherst, NY 14226 716-839-2690 iaconoballroom.com

88

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

Niagara Dermatology Associates 5320 Military Road, Suite 104 Lewiston, NY 14092 716-205-8324 niagaradermatology.com

Santora’s 1402 Millersport Highway Amherst, NY 14226 716-688-3081 7800 Transit Road Williamsville, NY 14221 716-634-6000 santoras.com Spa Niagara LLC. 6932 Williams Road, Suite 1700 Niagara Falls, NY 14304 716-205-0039 spaniagarausa.com

Other Woman Catering 716-352-1315 theotherwomancatering.com

Tan Tara Golf Club 4391 Tonawanda Creek Road North North Tonawanda, NY 1412 716-694-0366 tantaragc.com

Salvatore’s Hospitality Italian Gardens Restaurant Garden Place Hotel The Delevan Hotel & Spa 6461 Transit Road 716-683-7990 salvatores.net

WNY Plastic Surgery 7 Hopkins Road Williamsville, NY 14221 3040 Amsdell Road Hamburg, NY 14075 716-634-5555 wnyplasticsurgery.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Only Comprehensive Dermatology Office In Western New York

2017 DATES STILL AVAILABLE! SPECIALS ON AVAILABLE HOT DATES

Weddings ~ Receptions ~ Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Showers ~ Engagement Parties Post Reception Brunch

Call Today!

CALL ASHLEY LESLIE

716.648.2700 extension 204

A C C E P T I N G N E W PAT I E N T S

ALeslie@Brierwoodcc.com www.BRIERWOODCC.com

Adult and Pediatric Dermatology, Cosmetic Dermatology, Surgical Dermatology including Mohs Surgery Anne Ramsdell, MD

Michael Bubar, RPA-C

Craig Miller, MD

5320 Military Rd, Suite 104 | Lewiston, NY 14092 NEW LOCATION: 2780 Delaware Ave, | Kenmore, NY 14217 (716) 205-8324 | www.niagaradermatology.com

Elegantly rustic.

Have your wedding your way.

(716) 694-0366 ext. 112 4391 Tonawanda Creek Road, North Tonawanda, NY 14120 www.tantaragc.com www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

89

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

MaryBeth Billittier-Darling & Lou Billittier Jr. welcome you to

Celebrate at Chef ’s Bridal Showers • Family & Rehearsal Dinners Or a Romantic Evening for Two!

WILLIAMSVILLE 5422 Main St. | 716-634-4111 BUFFALO 220 Franklin St. | 716-852-5600 EAST AMHERST 9424 Transit Rd. | 716-639-8019

Banquet rooms can accommodate up to 125 guests Specialized catering menu Excellent wait staff

SALVATORE’S DELAVAN HOTEL & SPA 6461 Transit Rd. | 716-288-7111

www.capellosalon.com SHORT STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

291 Seneca St. | (716) 856-9187 | www.ilovechefs.com

All you need is love!

DIAMOND HAWK is a beautiful unique setting with our elegant room, great food, and undivided attention for your special day. Our professional staff strives to make your dream wedding come true. Relax and let us help you celebrate your new and bright future together.

g o l f

c o u r s e

651-0700

255 Sonwil Drive Cheektowaga, NY 14225 www.diamondhawkgolf.com

90

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HealthTrends

SPONSORED BY

Taking care of your heart

By James Catanese

T

he “ticker” is the one muscle in the human body that none of us can afford to ignore. The heart is more closely monitored than any other organ, and for good reason: cardiovascular disease is responsible for one in every four deaths, and is the number one killer of American men and women. As such, prevention is critical, which is why every year since 1964, February is proclaimed American Heart Month.

While it may seem obvious, it is important to understand just how crucial the heart is to overall health. When stimulated by electrical impulses, this muscular organ expands and contracts to pump blood to the entire body; this activity is the “heartbeat” we can hear and feel. The

heart first pumps blood to the lungs, where it picks up oxygen; the oxygenated blood is then pumped to all the tissues in the body. If the heart is malfunctioning, oxygen depletion impairs bodily systems and tissues.

Heart disease encompasses many issues. Most complications are a result of atherosclerosis, a narrowing of the blood vessels caused by plaque buildup. This narrowing restricts blood flow through the vessel and can lead to stroke or heart attack. Heart disease also refers to heart failure (a decrease in the heart’s pumping efficiency), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat), or heart valve malfunctions.

While many factors can increase risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, high LDL (the bad) cholesterol, and www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

91

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

smoking are, by far, the main culprits.

Nearly half of all Americans have one or more of these three factors.

Also contributing are diabetes, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption.

The good news is that steps can be taken to prevent heart disease, as well as correct and improve existing conditions. As is the case for nearly all disease prevention, healthy diet and exercise are the best weapons to fight cardiovascular disease. Exercise can make your heart stronger and more efficient, lower your blood pressure,

92

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

reduce high cholesterol, and decrease weight. Likewise, eating a well-rounded, healthful diet can control weight and provide your body with the nutrients it needs to keep your heart operating at peak efficiency.

Sometimes, though, diet and exercise are not enough. For a variety of reasons such as genetic predisposition, issues like high cholesterol and elevated blood pressure can prove too stubborn to respond to lifestyle modifications. This is when both prescription drugs and over the counter supplements can provide support.

Generally, prescription drugs are intended to manage risk factors associated with heart disease, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Doctors may prescribe from an army of agents that work in different manners to reduce risk of complications such as stroke and heart attack. Additionally, your doctor may prescribe drugs that help control and improve efficiency of the heart’s pumping function.

Many people, however, choose to avoid prescription medication, if possible, and attempt to tackle cardiovascular issues through nutritional supplementation. While individual circumstance and severity of disease state vary from person to person, this “natural” approach may prove effective when paired with healthful diet and exercise. As with prescription drugs, there exists a number of nutritional options, each addressing different complications of heart disease.

When aiming to target high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, heart healthy omega supplements, as well as those containing red yeast rice are common. Today’s popular statin drugs were actually modeled from red yeast rice, which, like statins, works to lower your body’s production of LDL. Omega supplements serve a dual purpose in lowering triglyceride levels, as well as potentially reducing inflammation caused by plaque buildup in the arteries.

One of the most common over the counter supplements, omegas products are not all equal in quality or effectiveness. Often derived from seafood sources, which earns them the name “fish oil,” omega products can contain different levels of the essential omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, the substances that give fish oil its beneficial effect. Consumers must be vigilant in reading product labels, as many omega supplements may list a larger dosage of “fish oil” on the label, when, in fact, the active omega3s (EPA and DHA) are minimal, and the bulk of the listed omega-3s are inactive ones that are poorly utilized by the body. For patients with high cholesterol, the typical target dosage for EPA and DHA combined, is 1,500mg to 3,000mg.

Beyond cholesterol management, supplements exist to support healthy blood pressure. For instance, arginine is an amino acid, that, when taken as a supplement, can promote relaxation of the blood vessels. This relaxation, or vasodilation, eases the flow of blood through the vessels and thus lowers the pressure exerted on them.

Finally, other supplements promote

a d v eADVERTISING r t i s e m e nSECTION t SPECIAL

February is American Heart Month

A time to understand what the face of heart disease really looks like

F

ebruary is a short month, filled with winter activities, school breaks and Valentines. It is also American Heart Month, a time to notice what the “face” of heart disease really looks like. A special local volunteer, Shannon Jayasinghe, supports the Buffalo Niagara American Heart Association. She knows heart disease and stroke affect mothers (like herself), daughters, sisters and friends. It is the No. 1 killer of women. It is treatable and preventable.

Heart disease and stroke can happen to any woman. In fact, cardiovascular diseases kill nearly 1 in 3 women each year. Shannon, President of the Healthcare Division of bizWin Strategies, based in Williamsville, NY, is like most moms; they take the kids to play-practice, manage the office, sit on the local board and take care of loved ones. That woman with heart disease could be the CEO of the household.

Yet there are some women who don’t stop to listen to what their body is telling them. That woman will shrug off symptoms and signs that she could be having a heart attack or stroke rather than admit something is wrong – just so she can do one more errand or go to one more meeting. That woman may decide she can address it tomorrow.

But to understand a little further, why knowing more about heart disease and stroke is so important, we spoke with Shannon, the 2017 chair of the Go Red For Women® Luncheon February 1st at the Lexus Club in Buffalo. We asked Shannon to tell us about herself, how she came to the Buffalo Niagara American Heart Association and why advocating for heart health is so important for her and her family.

1. Where are you from?

I am originally from the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania area but now live in North Tonawanda. I help run bizWin Strategies, a local executive search firm with my husband, Dharshan.

2. Why do you support the American Heart Association?

The American Heart Association changes and saves lives by providing education to people of all ages and conducting groundbreaking research for medical advancement.

It is important to my husband and me from a personal, community and humanity standpoint that there is greater awareness about cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

While heart disease is the #1 killer nationally, stroke is #3 in Western New York, higher than the national average. That is a devastating statistic. These things can be prevented.

3. Why did you decide to chair the Go Red For Women Luncheon this year? What does that mean to you?

We h a v e a l w a y s m a d e i t our mission to give back to the c o m m u n i t y. D h a r s h a n b u i l t s o much momentum with his executive leadership team and the American Heart Association staff on the 2016 campaign that I wanted to keep it going strong! This role gives me a wonderful opportunity to positively impact the lives of the people in my community while working alongside the amazing, dedicated executives on my leadership team and the American Heart Association team.

4. What does heart disease look like in your family as well as Dharshan’s?

My grandfather suffered for 5 months after a failed quadruple bypass surgery and my maternal grandmother and her identical twin both had a series of strokes that devastated their quality of life.

Dharshan’s father passed away at 45 years of age from a massive heart attack. Dharshan and I both want to make sure that we reduce these risks in our family and in our community so other generations don’t have to see their loved ones go through what we have.

5. Why should women and men attend the Go Red For Women® Luncheon?

The luncheon is the perfect event to attend! It is informational.

It is an opportunity to learn. It is an inspirational event and a time to reflect on what your “Why” is.

The American Heart Association says, “Everyone has a reason to live a healthier, longer life. What’s your why?.” For me, my “Why” is my family. This is an ideal event to learn about heart disease and stroke, hear local survivor stories, and to think about your own “Why.” 6. What did you like best about the past Go Red For Women Luncheon, besides the fact that your husband was the chair?

The event was so well attended.

It was wonderful to see so many inspired women (and men) coming together to support heart health in our community. There are some really incredible survivor stories that just make you realize taking care of yourself and your loved ones is so important every day. The Heart Association offers great tools for you to be able to do that.

7. Being a woman executive, what is the one thing you want all women to realize about heart disease for themselves? For their families?

Heart disease is more prevalent in women than you probably realize and can be prevented! Educate yourself and your family on prevention, but also know the symptoms of heart disease, get regular medical checkups and have an emergency plan.

8. Does your family discuss your family health history together?

Our family discusses our health history, past and present, often. We do this to examine where we are currently in terms of health and how we can be proactive to reduce health risks. Sometimes we need to tweak where we are with diet and exercise and make sure that we are on track.

It helps to reflect as a family and support each other.

9. Do you have a favorite quote?

“Alone we can do so little; tog ether we can do so much.” ~Helen Keller

Shannon and Dharshan Jayasinghe Shannon is the 2017 Go Red for Women Chair

10. What does bizWin do as a company to help its employees learn more about heart disease and stroke?

We a t t e n d A m e r i c a n H e a r t Association events and other medical education opportunities as a company, whenever possible. We have held lunch and learns, presented by the American Heart Association, educating staff on Hands-only CPR®, stroke, and heart healthy nutrition.

11. What is one thing you would want everyone to remember when they think about their health?

I would encourage anyone, whether you have been affected by heart disease or stroke, had a history of heart disease or stroke in your family, or none of these, to know your numbers, get checked, stay on top of your health, get involved with your local American Heart Association and spread the word about prevention!

GO RED FOR WOMEN® “KNOW YOUR NUMBERS” TIPS & FACTS G o R e d F o r Wo m e n ® i s a movement that starts with you. It’s time for all women to learn the most critical numbers in their life -- their hearts depend on it.

Here’s how: 1. Understand Risk Factors There are some you can control like blood pressure, smoking, cholesterol, lack of regular physical activity, and some you can’t control like age, gender, and family history.

That’s why it is important to Know Your Numbers, learn your family history and discuss all risk factors with your healthcare provider.

2. “Know Your Numbers” Five numbers can change your life - Total Cholesterol, HDL (good) Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, Blood Sugar and Body Mass Index (BMI).

3. Take Action and Manage Your Numbers Schedule a separate visit with your healthcare provider to learn these numbers and commit them to memory. Work to improve your numbers, if necessary.

FACTS ABOUT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES • Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD) kill nearly 1 in 3 women each year.

• Cardiovascular diseases kill about one woman every 80 seconds but about 80% of cardiovascular diseases may be preventable.

• Heart disease is the number 1 killer of women, taking more lives than all forms of cancer combined.

• Almost half of cardiovascular related deaths are in females.

• About 3.6 million stroke survivors alive today are women.

• Only 17% of women consider heart disease or stroke to be the greatest health problem facing Americans today.

Join us at the Go Red for Women® Luncheon.

Come together to help fight heart disease and stroke in women.

Hear inspiring stories and learn to improve your own heart health.

Go Red for Women Luncheon Wednesday, Feb. 1, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Lexus Club, KeyBank Center, 1 Seymour Knox III Plaza, Buffalo Tickets are $100 each. Macy’s is a national sponsor of Go Red for Women®. Local sponsors include bizWin Strategies, Lakeshore Savings Bank, Buffalo Medical Group, New York Beef Council, Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Spree, WKBW, Entercom and Buffalo Healthy Living. For information, visit BuffaloGoRed. heart.org or call 716.243.4603.

www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

93

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

overall heart health. Coenzyme-Q10 is a powerful antioxidant in the body that plays a role in energy production, and may enhance the function and health of the heart. Additionally, Co-Q10 supplements are commonly given to patients on statin therapy, as these drugs deplete our body’s natural stores of Co-Q10, which can lead to complications, such as the muscle pain and fatigue.

When buying any supplement, consult a health care professional trained in and familiar with their usage. Stores such as Pine Pharmacy in Williamsville specialize in providing these products, and ensuring their quality and safety.

Proper heart health is as—or more—essential to overall well-being as any other aspect of your life. Take time this month to pay attention to your “ticker”—it might save your life.

James “Bo” Catanese is a pharmacist at Pine Pharmacy.

94

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Better Health. Better Life.

O

February is American Heart Month

O

Women already advocate for all loved ones

Know the Signs & Symptoms of Heart Disease by talking with your physician

Nora Meaney-Elman, M.D. 1829 Maple Road, Suite 201 Williamsville, NY 14221 716.839.7107 www.drnorameaney-elman.com www.buffalospree.com

February 2017

95

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Finding true love can be a challenge that takes time and several bad dates—unless you’re looking for love on four legs. Compared to romantic love, falling in love with a special bundle of fur is “doggone” easy.

Verseda Beuzenburg, of Brant, didn’t expect a funny-faced puppy to show up at her house in December of 2010, but that’s how she met Abel, and how her “perfect” German shepherd mix, Paxton, got a little brother. “About two weeks before Christmas, my niece and her boyfriend decided to surprise my husband Larry and me with a puppy that they found on Craigslist,” she remembers. “When I first saw them pull into our driveway and this gorgeous brindle boxer/pit mix puppy came bounding out, I knew he was going to be a handful.”

But Beuzenburg also knew he was the “one,” and, six years later, they’re inseparable. “He just had this face and smile that made the world seem brighter,” she says. “Abel and I have pretty similar personalities. Our favorite activities include snuggling on the couch, watching movies, and taking naps. We also enjoy playing with his varsity ball outside and going on walks with his human dad.”

But Beuzenburg had been right that first day; Abel wasn’t always easy.

“We were originally told he was four months old, and he was really eight months,” she says. “We had to potty train. And he was really dog aggressive.

We went through three trainers before we found one that made a difference.

Abel is actually the reason I decided to go to school to be certified as a dog trainer.”

Beuzenburg says she can’t imagine a day without Abel in it. “For as much of a butthead as he is, [Abel] is equally sweet, smart, and loving,” she gushes. “He is my cuddlebug whenever I’m blue. And he gives great kisses.”

Dr. Stephanie West, veterinarian and hospital administrator at Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Cheektowaga, approves of love-by-exercise, and is all for well-earned couch naps. But, she advises, to keep pets healthy, show affection with hugs, pets, and bellyrubs instead of treats—at least most of the time.

For the Veterinary Emergency Clinic blog, Mike Bean writes that “overfeeding, giving human leftovers and too many treats (to your pet) may feel loving, but you aren’t helping them.

Instead of killing pets with kindness, consider a proper healthy diet and exercise to ensure they live a long and happy life!” (petemergencybuffalo.com).

(And watch dogs around that Valentine’s chocolate; too much can be toxic.)

96

February 2017

www.buffalospree.com

Love wasn’t a surprise for Marie Cameron of Angola, though. For her, pity led to kindness, which led to fondness, which grew to love for a poor little cat named Carl. “I met him at the Lakeshore Humane Society,” she prefaces. “I had heard about him before I met him. As a volunteer, I received an email one evening saying we had taken in two emergency cats. One was Carl.

A friend of a volunteer had been out walking by a vacant building and discovered kids throwing rocks and sticks at two frightened cats. She scared the kids away and called us. I’ll never forget the picture she sent. Carl was on top of the other cat, wide-eyed, petrified, but trying to protect the other cat.”

After only a few days, Carl’s friend, a Siamese, was adopted. Carl remained, and week after week, Cameron spent

Love on four legs

BY REBECCA CUTHBERT

SPONSORED BY

time with him, showing him the world wasn’t always such a bad place. But it was Cameron’s husband, Scott, who sealed the deal. “I hemmed and hawed about it for a month,” Cameron recalls.

“My husband had met him a few times (at LHS). One day when we were both there, I said, ‘Let’s go see Carl.’ And my husband said, ‘The only way I’ll go see Carl today is if we’re bringing him home.’”

Carl joined the other four-legged rescues at the Cameron home, and, along with a couple of kids, he’s part of a happy family. Oh—and Carl may have more quirks than the Camerons’ toddler. “Honestly, we spend a lot of our quality time in the bathroom,” Cameron shares. “He insists on being in there if I am. When I take a shower, he curls up in the sink and waits for me to get out.”

“We had to put our dog, Guinness, to sleep,” says Bladell resident Colleen Renzoi, who explains that her

young son, Owen, took it the hardest. “About three months after we put Guinness to sleep, Owen began asking if he could get another dog, not to replace Guinness but to bring back some life to our home.”

At first, Renzoi and her husband, Paul, thought they were looking for a greyhound; they both love the breed.

When they found Wilma—short, wrinkly, cute but not graceful—they decided they didn’t need a “long dog” after all. “She stole our hearts in mere seconds,” says Renzoi, adding that now eighteen-month-old Wilma, an English bulldog, is from Buffalo Pug and Small Breed Rescue.

The Renzois made sure that Wilma got along with their resident dog, Lila, a chow/retriever/coonhound/Rottweiler; all three of their sons adored her from day one. “Paul and Owen built her a ramp to she could get up onto Owen’s bed at night. She loves to cuddle and is happiest when sleeping with her peeps,” Renzoi says; family time also involves games of tag and fetch. “She is a pushy little stinker and will wiggle her way onto your lap no matter what you are doing. She is in my lap while I type, and I have also learned to crochet around her.”

The Veterinary Emergency Clinic’s blog has plenty of tips about keeping your pet happy and healthy during the chilly months, including what to do after you come back inside from chasing tennis balls in the yard or going for walks: “After long periods of time outdoors, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach. This will remove ice, salt, or chemicals that could have been touched on their walk. Snow and ice has been known to ball up in your pet’s toes, so be sure they are clear to keep them toasty.”

After you towel off your pets, take a page from the books of Abel, Carl, and Wilma: grab a soft quilt or fluffy afghan and claim a spot on the couch with your favorite furry Valentine. Still looking for four-legged love?

Head to your local animal shelter and open your heart. Once you do, talk to your vet about fun and healthy ways to spend quality time with your sweetfaced pup or kitty.

Rebecca Cuthbert lives, writes, and cares for shelter dogs in Dunkirk. She is a frequent contributor to Spree and Forever Young.

Greater Buffalo Veterinary Emergency Clinic 4821 Genesee Street Cheektowaga, NY 716-780-4533