Forever Young June 2022

JUNE 2022 |

FREE

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

The Third Act

Unexpected pivots in the golden years

Library advocate Elaine Panty | Local author John Loss | Susan Riley’s “small blessings”

Wednesday, June 15th • 1:00pm

JUNE 2022

Solve plant problems

5

Trace hidden roots

6

Learn about a new health calcuation tool

18

On the cover, bottom left: Riverside resident Elaine Panty Photo courtesy of Buffalo & Erie County Public Library; bottom center: Longtime Niagara Falls resident John Loss Photo by Matthew Andrus; bottom right: Small Blessings Purse Project founder Susan Riley Photo by Christine A. Smyczynski

Home & Garden 5

More plant problems.................................. Carol Ann Harlos

Genealogy 6

African American heritage............... Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits

Let’s Talk About 7

When routine becomes a rut........................ Judith A. Rucki

Features: The Third Act 12 14 16 17

Retiree expands cultural horizons.....................Tara Erwin Small Blessings Purse Project.......... Christine A. Smyczysnki Octogenarian publishes book........................Ashley Ziomek Riverside Library named for resident.......Michael J. Billoni

Being Well 18

Photo courtesy of Ned Miller

Move over, BMI ...........................................Catherine Stack

Retiree Chera Apruzzese Thompson is an active volunteer.

12

Ever y Issue: Resources 3 | Crossword 4 | Bingo Buzz 8 | Classifieds 20 | Noteworthy 21

Senior Housing Designed With You in Mind!

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June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 1

EDITOR’S NOTE OUR 34TH YEAR 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12 Amherst, NY 14228 Phone 716.783.9119 Fax 716.783.9983 www.foreveryoungwny.com

OWNER/PRESIDENT

PUBLISHER

Sharon C. Levite

Barbara E. Macks

Executive Editor....................................................................... Sabrina Kahwaty skahwaty@foreveryoungwny.com

Managing Editor............................................................................. Donna Hoke Associate Editor.................................................................... Rhiannon Browning Creative Director..................................................................... Jean-Pierre Thimot Lead Designer............................................................................ Nicholas Vitello Senior Graphic Designers............................................... Josh Flanigan, Kim Miers Graphic Designers.........................................Rachel Kaznica, Taramarie Mitravich

Director of Advertising............................................................. Barbara E. Macks bmacks@foreveryoungwny.com

Director of Audience Development & Sales Coordinator.................... Robin Lenhard Senior Account Executives..................................... Mary Beth Holly, Keren Green, Caroline Kunze, Robin Lenhard, Rachel Wasserman National Ad Director...................................................................... Terri Downey

Administrative & Finance Director..............................................Michele Ferguson

BUFFALO SPREE PUBLISHING, INC.

Owner/President...................................................................... Sharon C. Levite Publisher................................................................................ Barbara E. Macks Executive Editor....................................................................... Sabrina Kahwaty Vice President/Administrative & Finance.....................................Michele Ferguson Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2022 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 2022 by Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. and may not be reproduced in any manner, either whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved. Display advertising information and rates may be obtained by calling (716) 783-9119 ext 2250.

For home delivery by mail, send check or money order for $12.00 payable to Forever Young. Standard mail postage paid at Amherst, NY 14228. POSTMASTER send change of address to Forever Young, 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228. Manuscripts and free calendar listings should be sent to the editor (skahwaty@foreveryoungwny.com) at 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12, Amherst, NY 14228. Material cannot be returned unless accompanied by a self addressed, stamped envelope of adequate size and strength. The publisher does not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the advertising message or any aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the paper.

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

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

2

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

It’s never too late Ever thought about writing a book?

How about starting a business? Think it’s too late? Think again.

Where once retirement meant “slowing down,” it’s now flexible and, sometimes, taking it easy isn’t even part of the equation.

Whether it’s a new venture like becoming an author or an entrepreneur or donating time to meaningful causes, seniors all over Western New York are forgoing “retirement” in favor of “third acts,” exciting times of change.

Niagara Falls native John Loss became a first-time author at age eighty. Bibliophile and star volunteer Elaine Panty had a library named for her. Retired teacher Chera Apruzzese Thompson tutors for Buffalo’s refugee population, and Susan Riley used her twenty-seven years of business experience to found Small Blessings Purse Project, which benefits women in need. Their continued energy and generosity is inspiring!

As I write this, just a few days after the horrific violence at Tops on Never miss a Forever Young! Subscribe for $12/year!

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

Jefferson Avenue, I am struck by the thought that the phrase “it’s never too late” is always about taking action.

Though you’re reading this nearly a month since this tragedy, the anger and heartbreak have not diminished.

It’s never too late to take that anger and turn it into positive action. It’s never too late to learn, speak up, advocate, reach out, support, and care for each other. It’s never too late to be the change we want. Starting today.

Respectfully,

Sabrina Kahwaty Executive Editor

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

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

Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m.

FREE. Visit www.facebook.com/ Buffalo-Laughers for information.

West Seneca AMANA GARDEN CLUB OF WEST SENECA, is welcoming new members interested in gardening, floral arrangement, and more. For mor information, contact Marie: 884-8543

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

Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 2858224 Jennifer Britton (ext. 217) for Senior Companions and Kelly Carr (ext. 228) for Foster Grandparents Williamsville MEDICARE EDUCATION PROGRAM offers complimentary services through the WNY Medicare Resource Center.

Appointments encouraged, 833-0252 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 Southtowns NEW HORIZONS MUSIC Calling all musicians 50+ interested in music. For info, email Janet Stout at 354janet@gmail.com and visit newhorizonsmusic.org.

Depew BREAST CANCER NETWORK OF WNY Call 7060060 or visit bcnwny.org for more information.

Buffalo PARKINSON’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP (Caregivers only) 4th Tuesday of Each Month, 3 PM. Weinberg Campus 2650 North Forest, Amherst (off in July & August)

Buffalo PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP United Way – Room 219, 742 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo. Contact: Stephanie Mruzek. Email: eastamherstDSM@ solsticeseniorliving.com. Please visit www.parkinson.org for a full listing of Parkinson’s support groups in WNY. Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 6323700 or mcguiregroup.com 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: 8527743 or pridecenterwny.org

NIAGARA FALLS SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB: An active 50+ crowd. Meet & Greets second Friday of the month at Tim Hortons (8500 Niagara Falls Boulevard); dances third Friday of the month at Buff Social Club (2565 Young St.). For more info: see Facebook: SINGLES SOCIAL CLUB or call 550-1232 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 Karen 247-2334 Cheektowaga For information, call MaryAnn 895-4414 Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 385-7558 Farnham For info, call 934-9619 Lancaster For info, call Eva 4070539 Tonawanda For info, call 693-5161

410 Mill Street, Williamsville 716.632.3000 www.park-creek.com “Embrace seasons past... begin life anew!”

Stimulating social, educational, & recreational activities Medication Management

Access to 24-hour personal care assistance Affordable Memory care program FOR MORE INFORMATION

Call Jane @ 632.3000

Enroll Today!

www.va.gov/western-new-york-health-care/

716-862-8829

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 3

CROSSWORD 15. Raja’s money, pl.

45. Like certain Debbie

20. Changes to a manuscript

49. Unit of absorbed radiation

22. Military moves

51. Relating to nose

24. Fail to care

54. Frances McDormand’s Oscarwinning 2020 role

25. *_____ v. Board of Education 26. Eagle’s nest 27. Kr and Xe on the periodic table, e.g.

29. *Postwar prosperity 31. Per person 32. Farm structures 33. Ancient market 34. *”Rio Grande” and “Rio Bravo” star 36. Lose skin 38. *Egypt’s disputed canal 42. Sir Richard Starkey of the Beatles

56. Estrogen producer 57. Spiritedness 58. Equal to distance divided by time 59. Actor Driver 60. Squirrel’s nest 61. Units of work 62. International Civil Aviation Org. 63. Hall of Fame Steelers coach 64. Cooking meas.

66. Fla. neighbor

THEME: THE 1950S ACROSS 1. a.k.a. vampire

53. Deprivation

6. Asian cuisine pan

55. Greek R

9. Type of tide 13. Make more attractive 14. Lawyers’ grp.

15. China grass 16. *”West Side Story’s” Tony and ____ 17. Mourner’s acronym 18. Utilizing 19. *a.k.a. “The King” 21. *Kitschy art movement begun in ‘50s (2 words) 23. Mortar carrier 24. Back of the neck 25. *Kelly or Chanel 2.55, e.g.

57. *”A Streetcar Named Desire” star 60. *Popular type of 1950s restaurant 64. Pro athletes’ move 65. Sea in Spain 67. Narcotics agent 68. Stringed instrument of India 69. Brewpub offering 70. Shakespearean “ergo” 71. *Gwendolyn Brooks’ “Annie Allen” entry, e.g.

72. *Doris of “Que Sera, Sera” fame 73. Disinfectant brand

28. Hurtful remark

DOWN

30. “____ Margery Daw,” nursery rhyme

1. Statue of Liberty: “I lift my ____ beside the golden door”

35. Paper unit

2. Sixth month of civil year

37. Duds

3. Encore!

39. Eurasian antelope

4. *Like Maureen O’Hara and Samuel Beckett

40. Guesstimate phrase (2 words) 41. Unaccompanied

5. Not digital

43. Disgust with sweetness excess

6. On one’s guard

44. Brandish

7. ____-Wan of “Star Wars”

46. Track competition, e.g.

8. Fraternity K

47. Frustrated driver’s recourse

9. *Space program established in 1958

48. Legendary King of Pylos

10. Arabian chieftain

50. Tsar, tzar or ____

11. Are not

52. Greek letters on campus

12. Margaret, for short

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

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

HOME & GARDEN

More plant problems

CAROL ANN HARLOS

And how to address them

Y

ou put chrysanthemums in the ground last fall and were pleased with the resulting show of autumn color; now, there are no signs of life from these plants. What happened? Likely, the mums you purchased late in the growing season had been forced to bloom in greenhouses where their short-term energy was devoted to flower production; as such, their roots didn’t have to time to develop enough to sustain overwintering. What to do? Search for nurseries locally or online that sell mums early in the season. Plant them, taking care to properly spread out their roots. Pinch the plants back until around July 4. Let them bloom in autumn, then mulch them when the soil gets cold to keep the roots from heaving.

Japanese beetles! I hate them, too! Japanese beetle traps use pheromones to draw beetles to them— and to your garden, where males will mate with females. Every beetle eats its way through your garden on its way to a trap. Entomologists believe traps are useless (so give one to someone you don’t like! I’m joking…). Instead, I keep a can of detergent water under a rose bush and, when I go to my rose garden, knock the beetles into it. Take that you @#$%^ Japanese beetles! This method reduces their population in my gardens and makes me feel better. I also learned by accident that stinging nettle acts as a trap plant… the Japanese beetles prefer it to the roses and the perennial hibiscus. Hurrah!

Gardeners sometimes complain that their garlic bulbs are coming in very small, or even rotted. Great garlic begins in October. The soil should be loose. I always mix in some compost prior to planting the biggest cloves from the previous year. When I see the garlic emerging in the spring— if I remember!—I top dress the soil with more compost. In July, when I notice a yellowing at the tips of some garlic leaves, I dig up a few bulbs to check their development. I have not experienced garlic diseases or pests but if I did, I would purchase cloves for planting rather than use my own,

and also plant in a different area of the garden.

Hydrangeas that don’t bloom prompt a lot of complaint. Usually, these are macrophylla hydrangeas that grow on old wood, which means the flower buds for this year were formed in late August to September of the past year. Gardeners who feel obliged to prune everything in autumn inadvertently remove flower buds that would bloom the following spring. I learned a little trick that helps. Around July 4, I cut some stems back to about six inches, so they are protected by the stems and leaves of this year’s plants as they enter autumn. Unless the spring is very cold, the flower buds remain protected. The summer of 2021 was a wonderful summer for the macrophylla hydrangeas!

“Bees are attacking!” As a beekeeper, I take this seriously. If a honeybee swarm chooses your property, you have little to fear; their stomachs are full of honey, which makes stinging difficult (That’s why you see pictures of beekeepers covered in bees...they are safe!) Usually, the swarm moves on after a day or two to look for a new home. If you have a problem, visit the website of Western New York Honey Producers Association and request that a beekeeper pick up your swarm. The real problem is the yellow jacket wasps

that have holes in the ground and get mistaken for bees, or the bald-faced hornets that make paper nests in trees.

Properly identify your pests, then seek advice.

What to do about declining tulips?

Folks spend money, plant tulips, have one good year, and then few tulips after that. This happens because many tulips aren’t equipped to naturalize to an area. The problem is compounded by people cutting off leaves when they cut off the flowers; the leaves are needed to feed the bulbs and enable next year’s blooms. Rabbits, squirrel, and deer don’t help. I used to have hundreds of tulips; now, I collect daffodils, chionodoxus, and other spring bulbs.

Gardeners get distressed when they see anthills rising in garden beds. Not only are they aesthetically displeasing, but ants crawl up your pant legs. What to do? No poison please. Simply set a soaker hose on low and put in the area for several days; the ants will leave.

Do you have problems I haven’t mentioned? Send me an email: caharlos@verizon.net FY Carol Ann Harlos is an awardwinning retired math and science teacher, Master Gardener, beekeeper, writer, and speaker. She tends extensive gardens, including herbs, and loves learning from others and sharing her knowledge.

THE SOUND OF THE CITY

•••••••••••••••••

THE SONGS YOU KNOW. THE MUSIC YOU LOVE.

•••••••••••••••••

Featuring: Frank Sinatra Dionne Warwick Tom Jones Ella Fitzgerald Tony Bennett The Carpenters STREAMING LIVE AT

WEBRRADIO.COM

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 5

GENEALOGY

Tracing hidden roots

How to uncover African American heritage

D

o you have African American heritage and wonder how to begin your research? Because enslaved people didn’t have legal rights prior to 1865, it can be difficult to track their lives through census, birth, marriage, and death records. But there are other records that can help. more. These hundreds of thousands signatures and images of original In 1865, Congress created the Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and of documents provide a view into the forms required to open an account.

Abandoned Lands, commonly referred lives of the newly freed. Ancestry.com The questions asked on each form varied by branch, but the common offers this digitized collection for free to as the Freedmen’s Bureau, a federal information included name, date of agency intended to reunite the country at ancestry.com/cs/freedmens transaction, birthplace, residence, Bank records are also useful to and help formerly enslaved people age, occupation, spouse, children, research African American heritage. transition to freedom. The Bureau was and parent’s information. The earliest responsible for providing aid to more Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company than four million people. In operation was incorporated in 1865 by President records sometimes contain names of Abraham Lincoln. Its purpose was to former owners as well as plantation until 1872, the bureau opened name. Ancestry.com has digitized this schools, managed hospitals, supplied create an institution where formerly enslaved people and their dependents collection as well. Find it at ancestry. food and clothing, assisted soldiers and sailors in securing back pay, and could save money safely. Before it com/search/collections/8755/ Finally, ancestry.com also offers performed legal marriages. Along the closed in 1874, there were deposits of more than $57 million from 70,000 another free database, Interviews with way, it gathered personal data about the people it served, including labor depositors. Many of these bank Formerly Enslaved People, 1936-1938 records have survived and are indexed that contains more than 2,300 first contracts, rations, apprenticeships, letters, marriage information, and in a database that includes depositor person accounts of slavery along with

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS hundreds of black and white photos.

Cowboys, field hands, and domestic workers share stories about everything from treatment by owners to views of everyday life. This collection is organized by state and the first page of each includes a list of the informants’ names. The stories give a gutwrenching view of slavery and is worth checking out at ancestry.com/search/ collections/1944.

Researching our ancestors can be rewarding but also frustrating. Those with African American ancestors are faced with an extra layer of complexity as many records are incomplete or even non-existent. That makes surviving records all the more valuable for the information they reveal. FY Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a member of the National Genealogical Society and Association of Professional Genealogists. She has a monthly column in the Niagara Gazette and Forever Young. Send questions or comments to noellasdaughter@gmail.com.

LET’S TALK ABOUT...

When routine becomes a rut Is it time to shake it up?

BY JUDITH A. RUCKI

A

nyone who has juggled career, marriage, children, and a home knows the value of routine. Without structure, nobody gets out the door on time, let alone fed, dressed, and ready to take on the day. Even in the absence myriad responsibilities, routines offer a sense of control. But what happens when they become so ingrained that you can’t decline a Thursday dinner invitation because that’s the night you do laundry?

Your routine has become a rut. The dictionary defines a rut as “a habit or pattern of behavior that has become dull and unproductive but is hard to change.” Are you in a rut?

Lisa Parsons, author of “Routine” Vs. “Rut” – And How to Tell the Difference, says, “A routine is a set of healthy habits that brings you fulfillment, growth, stability in chaos, and a sense of achievement. A rut is where that routine becomes a safety net that stops you from seizing spontaneous opportunities when they arise.”

Doing the same thing, the same way, day in and year out, can sap motivation and decrease fulfillment.

Even when people think about beginning creative hobbies or going to new places, they often dismiss the idea with excuses about lack of energy and time. It’s easier to stay the same than to venture into new territory.

But as the familiar saying goes, “the only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth of the hole.”

If you don’t look forward to each new day, are stressed and tired, or feel you want to mix things up but don’t know where to begin, you may be in a rut. So how do you dig your way out, especially if the idea of change is overwhelming?

Start small. Call a friend for coffee.

Take a walk in an unfamiliar part of town. Eat something special for lunch.

Even healthy habits can stand some change-up. Consult a nutritionist to improve your diet. If your exercise routine has gotten same-y, try a new class or instructor. Hike in a new location. Maybe try an entirely new form of exercise like Pilates, Zumba, or kettlebells. Nothing will feel different if you don’t do something different.

Evaluate your surroundings.

When’s the last time you painted or rearranged the furniture? Changing the place where you spend the most time can change your perspective.

While you’re at it, check out your closet. Are you wearing the same things every day while other clothes languish? Start wearing them! And if they no longer fit or reflect the person you want to be, get some that will help you break confidently out of your clothes rut.

Learn something new. There are so many offerings in our region from adult education at high schools to acting classes at local theaters to writing classes. There are also lectures and hobby sports groups and tours.

Check out the Agenda in Buffalo Spree for an entire month of inspiration!

Learning and leaving your comfort

zone not only keep boredom at bay but are both powerful means of growth.

Practice gratitude. Keep a journal of things for which you are grateful; you may not have all you want but you may have all you need. Express gratitude to others, sincerely, randomly, and without prompting.

These actions help adjust perspective, which can, in turn, affect action.

Set a date to take action. People often say they don’t regret the things they did as much as they regret the things they didn’t do. Don’t be one of those people. Stop wasting time.

Don’t make excuses; make a date.

Stay open to chance. When we open our eyes to opportunity, opportunity appears. Next time you say “No” without a moment of consideration, ask yourself what door you may have just closed. Exploring multiple opportunities means multiple options for you to add excitement to your life.

“Routine is part of a balanced life. We are creatures of habit, and these habits should bring us stability and security while allowing us the freedom to explore,” Parsons reminds us. “A rut means that our habits are limiting us, and our balance is out.

The way to avoid stagnation is to keep routines in check and in moderation.

And to be open to flexibility, change, spontaneity, and the new experiences that life presents to you.” FY Judith A. Rucki is a public relations consultant and freelance writer.

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 7

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar Bingo is back!

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 AMERICAN LEGION POST 1041 533 Amherst St., Buffalo 7 p.m............................................... 875-9276 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m............................................... 681-7251 HAMBURG–KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS 36 Pierce Ave., Hamburg 7:30 p.m.....................649-9830/649-4340

MATTHEW GLAB POST 1965 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7 p.m.............................................. 825-3733 ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:15 p.m.......................................... 836-0011

TUESDAY AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13 25 Review Pl., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.......................................... 874-0559 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.......................................... 876-1038 ARMOR VOL. FIRE CO. 4932 Clark St., Hamburg 7:30 p.m.......................................... 649-9821

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

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

WEDNESDAY AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 S. Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.......................................... 822-6400 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C — SPONSORED BY THE JUSTINETTES 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 7 p.m............................................... 681-7251 ST. ALOYSIUS RCC 156 Franklin, Springville 7:30 p.m.......................................... 592-2701 ST. AMELIA 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 7:15 p.m.......................................... 836-0011

THURSDAY BLESSED TRINITY 317 Leroy Ave., Buffalo 8 p.m............................................... 833-0301 FATHER JUSTIN K OF C 2735 Union Rd., Cheektowaga 1 p.m................................................681-7251 FOURTEEN HOLY HELPERS 1345 Indian Church Rd., West Seneca 7:00 p.m...........................................674-2374 K OF C MADONNA COUNCIL NO. 2535 755 Erie Ave., North Tonawanda 7:30 p.m.......................................... 693-5470 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m.......................................... 873-6716 ST. JAMES DEPEW 500 Terrace Blvd., Depew 7:30 p.m.......................................... 683-2746 VFW COL. WEBER POST 989 2909 South Park Ave., Lackawana 7:30 p.m.......................................... 823-9605

FRIDAY AM. LEG. MCKEEVER POST 1770 South Park Ave., Buffalo 7:30 p.m......................................... 822-6400 ASSUMPTION PARISH 435 Amherst St., Buffalo 7:30 p.m.......................................... 876-1038

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Bingo Calendar DALE ASSOCIATION CENT. 33 Ontario St., Lockport 7 p.m (first and third Fridays)........ 433-1886 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 7 p.m.................................1-800-421-2464 ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA 157 Cleveland Dr., Cheektowaga 7:30 p.m.......................................... 833-1715 ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH 1525 Sheridan Dr., Kenmore 7:30 p.m.......................................... 873-6716 ST. PHILIP THE APOSTLE 950 Lossen Rd., Cheektowaga 7:00 p.m.......................................... 668-8370

SATURDAY BUFFALO GAY BINGO/ AIDS PLUS FUND OF WNY Amvets Medallion Post 13, 13 Review Pl., Buffalo 7 p.m (2nd Sat.).............................. 822-0818 CARDINAL O'HARA HIGH SCHOOL 39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda 7:30 p.m.............................. 695-2600 x326 OUR LADY OF BISTRICA 1619 Abbott Rd., Lackawanna 7:15 p.m.......................................... 822-0818 SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m..........................1-800-421-2464

(continued)

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............................................... 823-1090

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June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 9

Bingo Calendar

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FEATURE

Retiree finds adventure in lifelong learning Assisting refugees expands cultural horizons

BY TARA ERWIN

F

or Chera Apruzzese Thompson, life has always been an adventure. Since retirement, she’s discovered that volunteering is a great way to continue it.

“Volunteering has enabled me to try new things in arenas I have always wondered about,” she says. “These experiences have brought me new friends, a sense of fulfillment, and lifelong learning.”

Thompson, who grew up in Los Angeles and lived in Ohio before moving with her husband and two children to Buffalo more than twentyfive years ago, donates her time and skills to area nonprofits such as Operation Good Neighbor, Explore

Buffalo, Paws for Love, Stitch Buffalo, Shea’s, and Tifft Nature Center.

Nearest and dearest to her heart, however, is International Institute of Buffalo (IIB), where she’s been a Job Club Instructor and a Tutor Trainer for the Home English Language Learners

Chera Apruzzese Thompson volunteers as an English tutor with the International Institute of Buffalo. Photo courtesy of Ned Miller

Outreach (HELLO) Program. Both IIB volunteer opportunities are perfect for Thompson, who taught ESL to adult refugees for BOCES and the Buffalo Public Schools before retiring in 2017.

IIB’s mission is to make Western New York a better place for, and because of, immigrants and refugees.

Its Job Club prepares clients for the workforce by helping with resumes, teaching about work safety, and transitioning their professional and personal lives. The HELLO Program offers homebound students, typically women with young children or the 12

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

elderly, basic English instruction to help to navigate their new community.

Thompson’s always loved travel and experiencing different cultures.

In fact, she worked for American Airlines before earning her Masters degree in Adult Education/ESL in her fifties. Before she moved to Buffalo, her husband’s job had them living in Hungary and Australia. And the couple has traveled with Habitat for Humanity and Fuller Center Global Builds as well.

“I love teaching and engaging with Buffalo’s refugee population because it lets me engage with different cultures

FEATURE on their home turf,” Thompson says.

Her tenure with IIB began shortly after her arrival in Buffalo. Even during the pandemic, she still taught via video apps, which she described as “challenging, but manageable.”

(According to the IIB, exposure to a new language for just two hours per week makes a radical difference in language acquisition.)

Volunteering has given Thompson more than she’s given it, she says, and she urges anyone—retired or not— to be of service. “It’s a way to learn something new or explore a hobby or interest,” she points out. It’s also an ideal way to make friends and become more familiar with the region.

“When you move to a new place and don’t have any friends or family nearby, volunteering really brings socializing and friendships to the forefront,” she said. “It’s easy to form a bond with others involved in an organization because you’re all interested in the same thing. Some volunteers devote time and skills above and beyond what is asked of them and maintain a long-term commitment to the organization they volunteer with.”

In a full circle moment, Thompson, who kept her maiden name as a shout out to her immigrant grandparents, recently learned her Sicilian grandmother lived in Buffalo for three years before moving to Cleveland’s Little Italy. “This was a huge surprise to my entire family as we had only heard Cleveland stories,” she said.

“Now I understand why it was love at first sight for me and my adopted city. I am proud to have Buffalonian roots!”

Editor’s note: Commitment to the HELLO Program is flexible, but usually around two hours a week over a twelveweek period, and volunteers need not have any prior teaching experience.

Anyone interested in becoming a HELLO volunteer or any other volunteering opportunities with the IIB can email volunteers@iibuff.org. FY Tara Erwin lives and writes in Western New York.

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 13

FEATURE

Small Blessings Purse Project

Another way to share the wealth

STORY AND PHOTO

BY CHRISTINE A. SMYCZYNSKI

Small Blessings Purse Project founder Susan Riley poses with her dog in "the purse room."

S

usan Riley is all about “living a purposeful life of service.” A graphic designer for forty years, Riley ran her own business for twenty-seven of them, specializing in creating brochures, marketing materials, and newsletters for the senior care industry.

Prompted by the pandemic’s adverse effect on workflow, Riley decided to retire and enjoy life. “I was fortunate to be able to retire early,” she says. “I’m determined to make the most of my time” donating them to organizations that purse items are “small blessings.”

In fall 2019, feeling thankful for all “I’m trying to build women up and assist disadvantaged women. she had, Riley wanted to find a way to lend a helping hand,” says Riley, who Now, Riley calls her ministry Small give back, something she could do from does the work in honor of her mother, Blessings Purse Project, as she wanted home. She began collecting purses to a faith-based name and because the who passed away seven years ago. “This fill with personal care products, then COME HOME TO

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

ministry is only a small gesture to help women who may be struggling, to brighten their day and put a smile on their faces.”

The project started small, with a notice in her church bulletin at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Clarence; the response was encouraging. “Women are extremely generous,” Riley says. “They see this as an opportunity to help other women.

Empowered women empower women.

They have an emotional attachment to their purses; they know where they bought them and will tell you the history of the purse and why they want to give it to others.”

Word spread. Soon, other churches and organizations—including Christ the King Church in Snyder, Our Lady of Peace in Clarence, Alden Presbyterian, and Chesterton Academy—contacted Riley offering to organize ongoing collections with Small Blessings Purse Project. Donations are now collected year-round. In her first year, Riley filled and donated 165 purses; this past year, more than 500 purses were filled and donated.

A few years ago, to assist her mother, Riley moved back into her childhood home. Her former childhood bedroom is now “the purse room,” filled with bins of purses of all sizes and varieties, including designer bags and even backpacks. Some are new with tags still attached. “I’m amazed at the generous amount of stuff people give me!” she says.

Also in the room are bins upon bins of toiletry items like deodorant, shampoo, soap, tissues, hand sanitizer, etc. People donate these items as well as gift cards to Dollar Tree, which Riley says has the best products at the best price. The products are set up to fill purses in assembly-line fashion.

Riley tailors purse donations to the organization’s recipients. For example, Journey’s End Refugee Services often assists families, so she will give them bigger purses filled with full size products. If she is donating purses to organizations serving homeless or displaced women, she uses smaller purses filled with travel size products.

For faith-based organizations, she adds a rosary and a miraculous medal. Ladies

FEATURE from her church make the rosaries, and a priest blesses them.

Every purse also has a little “bling,” a small piece of donated costume jewelry.

“It’s great,” Riley says, “because it’s something that they’re not expecting!”

Riley shares some comments from some organization recipients: “Many families left their countries with few possessions. Sue’s purses are a way we can give women a practical welcome gift when they arrive in Buffalo.

The Small Blessings Purse Project is a fine example of why Buffalo is the City of Good Neighbors. Thanks to Susan and her many donors, we can extend kindness in our world!” (Andy Cammarata, Journey’s End Refugee Service) “Mothers come to our door focused on providing for the needs of their little ones, not themselves. Receiving a gift of a purse, and feeling the care and concern behind it, definitely blesses their day and brings a smile to their faces.” (Cheryl ZielenErsing, St. Gianna Molla Pregnancy Outreach Center) Riley is also involved with

Water=Life, a non-profit organization that was founded locally in 2013 to provide water filtration systems in third world countries. In January 2020, Riley traveled to Uganda to bring water filters to 150 schools and to train schoolteachers how to assemble, use, and maintain the system. waterequalslife.org Small Blessings Purse Project is collecting donations of clean, gently used purses, along with the following new/unopen personal care items: soap, deodorant, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, hand sanitizer, lip balm, brush/comb, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, dental floss, socks, tissues and costume jewelry. FY To make a donation and ask questions, contact Susan Riley at rileydesign@ gmail.com.

Christine A. Smyczynski is a freelance writer and blogger and author of Western New York Explorer’s Guide.

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 15

FEATURE

It’s never too late to start

NF octogenarian publishes book to aid the homeless

BY ASHLEY ZIOMEK

A

t the dazzling age of seventy-seven, John Loss decided to write a book. Three years later, in 2020, he released ...Not Always Homeless, a compilation of stories from homeless people in his community.

Longtime Niagara Falls resident and former teacher Loss had noticed that homeless people in his community were ignored and silenced. He was inspired to change that by using his book to give them a voice. “They were not always homeless,” Loss says, “and they had stories to tell about this experience and phase of their lives.”

Loss began by reaching out to local organizations dedicated to assisting the homeless, working to bridge the gap between himself and those he hoped to write about. Soon, he’d teamed up with Community Missions, Heart, Love, and Soul Food Pantry, Magdalene Project, and Niagara Gospel Rescue Mission. He volunteered in 2018 with the Community Missions, and Magdalene kitchens, serving food to community members in need. “I have a sincere desire to help the homeless in our local area,” the author says.

As Loss began to develop relationships with those he wanted to interview, he put together two posters to find more potential subjects. The first poster introduced himself and his

goal, and asked people to sign up if they were interested in talking. The second poster put forth his promise to not publish anything without consent and approval. Subjects could also choose to use aliases or remain anonymous, as much of the information Loss obtained was personal. He prided himself on maintaining mutual trust and integrity, including giving subjects the option of using their full name, first name only, or an assumed name to maintain anonymity if desired. “These were their stories,” Loss explains. “These individuals bared their souls.”

Over three years, Loss interviewed more than twenty people—mostly at the organizations he worked with—ultimately choosing thirteen to feature in the book. Each subject has their own chapter, and each story is paired with an inspirational bible verse. The final chapter, fourteen, is a summary that discusses age, sex, education, marital status, jobs held, time homeless, and more about the thirteen subjects.

In January of 2020, with the help of

Longtime Niagara Falls resident John Loss published his first book in 2020.

Photo by Matthew Andrus

a distant family connection, author/ publisher Jeff Zygmont agreed to help get the book into “reader-ready” form and see Loss through the publishing

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process. The book is now sold to raise funds for Help and Hope for the Homeless, Inc., a New York state registered charity founded by Loss.

“When all was said and done, I had added thirteen new friendships to my life,” Loss says.

“No one in a country as rich as ours should be without a place to call home, and should be able to sleep in comfort, security, and safety each, and every night.” FY Loss invites readers to share thoughts using the author contact information in the front of the book.

Ashley Ziomek is a freelance writer living in Western New York.

BUSINESS

Elaine Panty was the change Riverside library renamed for lifelong resident

BY MICHAEL J. BILLONI

G

rowing up in Riverside, Elaine Panty often walked from her parents’ flower shop on Tonawanda Street to the Riverside Library, where she loved to read mysteries and, later, books on international travel. She could never have imagined that more than a half-century later, the library would bear her name, an honor bestowed to the woman whose tireless efforts are responsible for its survival.

Over the years, lifelong Riverside resident Panty saw the storefront library adjacent to the former Riverside Men’s Shop become a popular gathering spot for this northern Buffalo community.

But in the early eighties, budget cuts threatened to close it. At the time, Panty was working for the Water Department in City Hall, so she went upstairs and voiced her displeasure to David Rutecki, former North District Councilmember.

Panty’s pleas inspired Rutecki to meet with the Riverside Businessmen’s Association, and Friends of Riverside Library was born. The group’s goal was to fully fund and build a branch of the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library (BECPL). Panty, of course, was chosen as president, a position she still holds—at eighty-four years old.

With passion of purpose, Panty worked the phones to convince political and business leaders that Riverside needed an official library branch. Former Buffalo mayor James D. Griffin was key to the plan’s success and Panty called him so often that the mayor’s assistant started alerting her when Griffin was leaving his second-floor office. Panty would then rush from her first-floor office to the landing, where she pushed her agenda in person.

The hard work paid off. In 1986, Riverside Library Branch at 820 Tonawanda Street was officially dedicated as part of the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library. Friends of Riverside Library continues to raise funds to support it, and Panty has also been a member of the BECPL Board

of Trustees for more than thirty years.

She calls her library work a “nonpaying second job.”

“Without Elaine’s tireless energy, this library may not be here,” said Joy Testa Cinquino, BECPL assistant director of development and communications.

“She talked with every elected official and the community, and she still does that today, encouraging use of this library.”

In addition to her library work, Panty has served on the board of the Riverside Businessmen’s Association, Northwest Buffalo Community Development Corporation, Town Boys Club, and the Erie County Manpower Advisory Board. She also volunteers for her sister, Julianne Panty, at a senior citizen center on Clinton Street. “I, who has never played bingo, had to learn how to call it because they needed someone,” she laughs. “I wear many hats, but I love meeting people and helping out where I can.”

Panty may have retired from the city water department twenty years ago, but she hasn’t slowed down.

Prior to the pandemic, she traveled to Italy, Germany, Hungary, and twice to Austria and the Netherlands’ Tulip Festival. Once she feels safe traveling again, she’ll be on the road visiting family and friends across the country.

Locally, she’s a long-time subscriber to Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Just Buffalo Babel literary series.

In 2008, Panty underwent cancer treatment and a mastectomy but, even with that, she barely seemed to pause.

“I followed what the doctors told me,

Riverside resident Elaine Panty worked tirelessly to get Riverside its own library branch. Photo courtesy of Buffalo & Erie County Public Library

and I thank God it all worked out, because I have meetings to attend and friends to take care of.”

The ultimate “thank you” for years of dedication came September 21, 2021. Panty watched in awe as BECPL officials unveiled the Riverside branch’s new name: The Elaine M. Panty Library.

“Elaine’s endless energy and dedication have provided the library with a strong and everlasting legacy,” says Mary Jean Jakubowski, retired library director who worked closely with Panty for more than two decades.

“Her sincere generosity, kindness and active participation as a trustee and volunteer is appreciated tenfold.

Elaine is one of a kind!”

“Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined my name being placed on this library,” Panty says. “Whatever role I played in getting this branch built was because it was necessary for the neighborhood. It just had to be done.” FY Panty encourages donations of used books and magazines for the annual public book sale on the second weekend of August. Donations can be dropped at the Elaine M. Panty Public Library at 820 Tonawanda Street.

Michael J. Billoni is a storyteller and publisher.

June 2022 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 17

BEING WELL

Move over BMI New tool assesses health risk

BY CATHERINE STACK

B

MI (Body Mass Index) is a common tool used to assess the relationship between height and weight. An obesity-level BMI— thirty or higher—typically suggests increased risk for illnesses related to excess weight, such as heart disease and diabetes.

The problem with this ratio’s credibility is that it doesn’t account for an individual’s frame, sex, muscle, or fat distribution (I see high BMI in those with a lot of muscle and little abdominal fat).

What we now know is that it’s dangerous to carry excess weight in the abdomen. As such, abdominal circumference plays a key role in determining risk for heart disease, cancer, hormone imbalance, and diabetes—and waist to height ratio (WHtR) assessments consider this. In

a recent study presented in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology Metabolism, WHtR was the strongest predictor of cardiovascular risk and mortality.

WHtR divides waist size by height and takes gender into account. For example, a seventy-inch (five-footten) tall male with a thirty-two-inch

waist has a WHtR of 45.7 percent (the quotient of thirty-two divided by seventy). Use the following chart to assess your own WHtR (these ratios are percentages): WOMEN • Ratio less than 35: Underweight • Ratio 35 to 42: Extremely slim • Ratio 42 to 49: Healthy • Ratio 49 to 54: Overweight • Ratio 54 to 58: Extremely overweight • Ratio over 58: Obese MEN • Ratio less than 35: Underweight • Ratio 35 to 43: Extremely slim • Ratio 43 to 53: Healthy • Ratio 53 to 58: Overweight • Ratio 58 to 63: Extremely overweight • Ratio over 63: Obese

18

www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

Some large abdominal circumferences may be the result of hormone imbalances, such as estrogen dominance, which can occur in both men and women. Hormone imbalances can also affect libido, erectile function, and energy levels.

To minimize abdominal fat: Avoid sugar and artificial sweeteners, the main source of weight gain.

Though many consider bread an essential part of every meal, removing enriched bread from diets can cause substantial fat loss as well as significantly reduce risk for Type II Diabetes.

Lean meats, poultry, and fish are great sources of protein and help prevent sugar cravings. Complex carbohydrates like quinoa (“keenwa”), barley, and bulgar wheat mixed with your favorite beans are complete proteins as well.

Eat more vegetables; raw is best.

Eat healthy fats. Omega-3 fats raise good cholesterol levels which govern the hormone cascade. And remember that good fat isn’t what makes you fat.

Add movement to your daily routine.

You can’t change your height, but you can change your waistline and strive to keep it in a health range. FY Catherine Stack is owner, facilitator, and Doctor of Naturopathy at Journey II Health. She specializes in colon health and bio-identical hormone replacement and is a practicing staff midwife at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. Her books, Free Yourself from a CONSTIPATED Life and PUSH, Labor & Delivery from the Inside Out are available on amazon. com. Visit cathistack.com for more info.

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LOCAL RADIO MATTERS When I purchased WECK radio in 2017, I could have made it anything: a country station, rock and roll, jazz… you name it. I chose oldies because the boomers and seniors of Buffalo were being left behind. They didn’t have a local radio station that catered to their needs and provided need-to-know news, weather forecasts, traffic reports, and, perhaps most importantly, a localism other Buffalo radio stations, owned by big, out-of-town companies, were lacking. Not only had these other stations abandoned seniors, but they’d also abandoned our beloved community.

The BIG WECK is yesterday inside of today. Enjoy our exclusive music format and the best local content with the trusted Buffalo air-personalities you grew up with: Joe Chille, Tom Donahue, Roger Christian, Dave Mason, Bobby O, Glenn, and Junior... live all day, all night. We are here to provide you with everything local when the others just won’t.

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Forever Young readers: we want to hear from you! Do you know someone who deserves to be recognized?

Tell us more. Do you have a story you’d like to share?

Drop us a line. We want to devote space in Forever Young to what matters most: you. Send your story ideas to Executive Editor Sabrina Kahwaty at skahwaty@ foreveryoungwny.com.

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | June 2022

The ideal candidates: • Know and love the WNY region • Have experience in advertising sales • Love meeting new people • Are equally comfortable at happy hour as around the conference table • Possess excellent communication, negotiation, and closing skills

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NOTEWORTHY 11

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June 11 Renée Fleming Returns!

Selections by Renée Fleming highlight the gala season finale, centered around four songs of a five-song cycle Richard Strauss never completed. The program opens with a world premiere celebrating the city of Buffalo, composed as a gift for Kleinhans Music Hall and your BPO.

7:30 p.m., Kleinhans Music Hall (3 Symphony Circle; bpo.org, 885-5000)

June 16 The Bard’s in Our Yard touring begins Look for Shakespeare to visit your neighborhood with Shakespeare in Delaware Park’s touring production. These mini shows in parks and venues across Western New York are the perfect Shakespeare sampler, a chance to check our what they’ve been doing on the hill since 1976. Check the touring schedule online.

(shakespeareindelawarepark.org, 856-4533)

June 11–12 Allentown Art Festival View and purchase art in every imaginable media, enjoy street food and buskers, and simply delight in a stroll through Buffalo’s great historic neighborhood.

10 a.m.–6 p.m., Allentown Historic Preservation District (allentownartfestival.com, 768-2000)

June 21 Little Tykes on Trails Enjoy storytime, a guided trail walk, and games to foster the nature explorer in your child or grandchild. Ages three to five; advance registration required.

9:30–11 a.m., Tifft Nature Preserve (1200 Fuhrmann Boulevard; tifft.org, 825-6397)

June 25–26 Roycroft Art and Antique Show Stroll the campus grounds during this weekend show featuring more than seventy artists, antique vendors, and cultural groups.

10 a.m.–5 p.m., Roycroft Campus (31 Grove Street, East Aurora; roycroftcampuscorporation.com, 655-0261)

Buffalo Spree Publishing is heartbroken and angered by the violence that occurred on Saturday May 14, 2022 at Tops Friendly Markets on Jefferson Avenue.

We denounce racism, hatred, and all other forms of discrimination.

We honor and remember the ten New York residents who lost their lives.

Their photos appear here courtesy of family and friends. We love our community and all its members, and our hearts are with the victims, their families, and all touched by this tragedy.

Top row, from left: Ruth Whitfield (age 86, Buffalo) Roberta A. Drury (age 32, Syracuse) Pearl Young (age 77, Buffalo) Heyward Patterson (age 67, Buffalo) Middle row, from left: Aaron Salter Jr. (age 55, Lockport) Celestine Chaney (age 65, Buffalo)

Bottom row, from left: Margus D. Morrison (age 52, Buffalo) Katherine Massey (age 72, Buffalo) Geraldine Talley (age 62, Buffalo) Andre Mackneil (age 52, Auburn)

We also express condolences and healing wishes for the three surviving victims and their loved ones: Zaire Goodman (age 20, Buffalo) Jennifer Warrington (age 50, Tonawanda) Christopher Braden (age 55, Lackawanna)