Forever Young November 2021

NOVEMBER 2021 |

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Let’s get crafty DIY for all to try

Pruning practice | Making the old new again | Power skier George Cretekos

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NOVEMBER 2021

Explore marriage records

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Let StudioHue help you do it yourself

16

Enjoy Letchworth’s fall foliage

20

On the cover, bottom left: Rambling roses Photo by Carol Ann Harlos; bottom center: Upcycling an outdoor bench into an indoor shelf Photo by Christine Smyczynski; bottom right: World-class power skier George Cretekos Photo by Elliot Cramer

Home & Garden

Getaways

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20 Letchworth.................................................. Elizabeth Licata

Garden house cleaning............................... Carol Ann Harlos

Genealogy 8

Marriage records............................... Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits

Theater 10 Theater preview................................................. Donna Hoke

Buffalo 60 Strong 21 George Cretekos............................................... Ashley Ziomek

Being Well 22 Mastication..................................................... Catherine Stack

Features: Crafting 14 Kits: Crafts for the uncrafty .......................Rebecca Cuthbert 16 Get your craft on with StudioHue...................... Tara Erwin 18 Upcycling update............................. Christine A. Smyczynski

Ever y Issue: Resources 3 | Crossword 4 | Bingo Buzz 12 | Classifieds 24 | Noteworthy 25

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November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 1

EDITOR’S NOTE

Do it yourself...with our help

OUR 33RD YEAR 1412 Sweet Home Road, Suite 12 Amherst, NY 14228 Phone 716.783.9119 Fax 716.783.9983 www.foreveryoungwny.com

PUBLISHER Barbara E. Macks

Editor-in-Chief............................................................................Elizabeth Licata elicata@foreveryoungwny.com

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

Creative Director..................................................................... Jean-Pierre Thimot Lead Designer............................................................................ Nicholas Vitello Senior Graphic Designers.............................................. Josh Flanigan, Kim Miers, Adam Van Schoonhoven Graphic Designer..................................................................Taramarie Mitravich

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President & CEO....................................................................... Sharon C. Levite Publisher/Chief Revenue Officer............................................... Barbara E. Macks Associate Publisher/Editor-In-Chief............................................... Elizabeth Licata Vice President/Administrative & Finance.....................................Michele Ferguson Corporate Counsel....................................................... Timothy M. O’Mara, Esq. Forever Young is published monthly, with an annual Senior Directory. Copyright ©2021 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 2021 by Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. and may not be reproduced in any manner, either whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved. Display advertising information and rates may be obtained by calling (716) 783-9119 ext 2250.

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

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

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

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

All through my childhood, my mom had a craft closet loaded with supplies for scrapbooking, rubber stamping, crochet and cross-stitch, plus markers, colored pencils, stencils, and tool chests full of odds and ends like beads, brads, wax, colored glue, and more. I always admired her vision for the finished product (I was always inclined to throw on too many stickers) and commitment to the craft even when it became frustrating or confusing. The best thing about my mom’s craft-titude was that she never failed to have a simple or alternative method that appeared equally impressive. This issue is in that same vein; Rebecca Cuthbert, Tara Erwin, and Christine A. Symczynski offer ideas for both experienced crafters and newbies that may be especially useful as the holidays near.

Check our Noteworthy section for the return of some exciting inperson events (and some new ones), relax with a crossword, learn how to houseclean your garden, or dig 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.

into ancestral marriage records. On these chillier days, we hope you find something in our pages to warm your spirit.

As Thanksgiving approaches and we prepare to tally our overwhelming number of FY Faves survey votes (results to be revealed in our December issue!), I am moved to thank you, our readers, once again, for your loyalty and support.

With deepest gratitude,

Sabrina Kahwaty Editor

FOREVER YOUNG *NOVEMBER RESOURCES *PLEASE CONTACT EVENT/PROGRAM ORGANIZERS TO CONFIRM INFORMATION PROVIDED Do you have an event or resource to list? Email it to skahwaty@buffalospree.com Buffalo MEDITATION El Buen Amigo, 114 Elmwood Ave. Free every Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Meditation unites with creative arts and pain management. Practitioner Sondra Holland welcomes people of all ages. Wear comfortable clothes. For information, Sondra: 947-5092; store: 885-6343 Online LAUGHTER WELLNESS Come as you are, just bring your laughter! Tuesdays at 11 a.m. FREE. Visit www.facebook.com/BuffaloLaughers for information.

Gowanda HEALTHY COMMUNITY ALLIANCE Activities open to the public age 50+, (no residency requirements), Concord Senior Center, 1 School Street, Gowanda; for schedule, visit communityalliance.org; 532-1010 Niagara Falls SENIOR C O M PA N I O N / F O S T E R GRANDPARENT PROGRAM Looking for seniors who enjoy working with their peers or children.

Volunteers receive a tax-free stipend, transportation assistance, and supplemental insurance coverage while volunteering. If you are 55+ and want to make a difference, call 285-8224 Jennifer Britton (ext. 217) for Senior Companions and Kelly Carr (ext. 228) for Foster Grandparents

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

Depew BREAST CANCER NETWORK OF WNY Call 7060060 or visit bcnwny.org for more 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 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: e a s t a m h e r s t D S M @ solsticeseniorliving.com. Please visit www.parkinson.org for a full listing of Parkinson's support groups in WNY.

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

Williamsville MCGUIRE GROUP MEMORY CARE SUPPORT: Coordinated with the Alzheimer’s Association, with caregiving tips and coping mechanisms. Info: 632-3700 or mcguiregroup.com

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 2472334 Cheektowaga For information, call MaryAnn 895-4414 Niagara Falls For info, call Beth 3857558 Farnham For info, call 934-9619 Lancaster For info, call Eva 407-0539 Tonawanda For info, call 693-5161

Buffalo LGBTQ MEMORY LOSS CAREGIVERS PROGRAM: The Pride Center of WNY offers support and education for people providing care for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. For information: 852-7743 or pridecenterwny.org

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.

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 3

CROSSWORD 22. Marching insect 24. Classroom attendee 25. *Patrick’s fiance on “Schitt’s Creek” 26. Dig, so to speak 27. King of the gods in Wagner’s “Das Rheingold” 29. Barber shop sound 31. Civil Rights icon 32. Ancient city in Africa 33. *Javen’s companion on “Temptation Island” or Lamb Chops’ puppeteer 34. *Marge Simpson’s husband 36. Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence 38. Kind of gin 42. Follow as a consequence

45. Bald Eagle to Americans, e.g.

49. Old Man’s turf, according to Hemingway 51. Capital of the Republic of Macedonia 54. Fraternity letter 56. Trial’s partner 57. Like a doily 58. Paella pot 59. Big cat sound 60. Blyton or Bagnold 61. Like a bloody horror movie 62. Romantic painter Francisco ____ 63. December 24 and 31, e.g.

66. *Jim’s co-worker and wife on “The Office” 68. Type of poem

THEME: TV COUPLES ACROSS 1. Sweeney Todd’s weapon 6. It’s in the hole?

9. Plural of #6 Across 13. Soft palate dangler 14. Each one for himself?

15. Red Cross supply 16. Short skirts 17. Flightless bird 18. Wavelike patterned silk 19. *Philip Banks’ wife 21. *Dre Johnson’s wife on “Black-ish” and occasional site around rain storm 23. 31st of the month, e.g.

24. E-mailed 25. Digital audio workstation 28. Essence of idea 30. Mouth infection 35. Fusses 37. Burden or load 39. Official language of Lesotho 40. Choose politically 41. Sashay 43. Thailand, formerly 44. All worked up 46. One assigned menial work 47. Rancher’s unit 48. Blue jeans 50. Famous Scottish lake 52. A cause of inflation 53. Number one 4

55. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s guitar 57. *Stars Hollow Luke’s love interest 61. *Louise Jefferson’s husband 64. Like a solitaire player 65. Government Printing Office 67. Home to BYU 69. Request to Geico 70. Calendar mo.

71. Gladdened 72. 36 inches 73. *Jake and ____ of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” 74. Rub off DOWN 1. Cuba Libre ingredient 2. Tel ____, Israel 3. Pueblo tribesman 4. Good will branch 5. Leveling to the ground 6. Congregation’s echo 7. *Mitch’s husband in “Modern Family” 8. Accustom 9. Long, long time 10. Baby container 11. German currency 12. Old World duck 15. The ____, an English rock band from the ‘80s 20. Goodbye to amiga

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

The solution for this month’s puzzle can be found on page 24.

HOME & GARDEN

CAROL ANN HARLOS

THE SUMMER SOUND OF THE CITY

••••••••••••••• THE SONGS YOU KNOW.

Garden house cleaning

THE MUSIC YOU LOVE.

Rambling roses Photo by Carol Ann Harlos

•••••••••••••••

T

Featuring: Frank Sinatra

his year, our daughter and her fiancé cleaned our gutters. This involved not only removing “gunk,” but cutting back woody shrubs and trees that had encroached on the roof. Our soil is wonderful—everything grows well; disease and insect damage are rare. In other words, dear reader, too much of some good things means some plants had grown out of control.

Dionne Warwick Tom Jones Ella Fitzgerald Tony Bennett The Carpenters STREAMING LIVE AT

WEBRRADIO.COM 6

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

I walked around our suburban property armed with pen, paper, and iPad. I took pictures of everything— not just the pretty plants, as I usually do—and decided it was time for some tough decisions and garden revision.

Because of interest expressed in reader emails, I am sharing some of those decisions with you.

There was a rambling rose on the left side of the house toward the front, a beautiful sight from June to early July. Rambling roses bloom on the previous year’s growth and produce wonderful rose hips that I use to make tea (a tisane). Pruning and moving the bush proved difficult as it was “thorny” and had reached a height of about seven feet. Did you know that roses don’t have true thorns? Your scratches won’t know the difference but true thorns begin as leaf parts, while roses grow what botanists call “prickles,” which grow from the epidermis or the cortex. You wanted to know that didn’t you?

I also removed a honeysuckle thriving near the dining room window and gave it to a friend. It’s lovely when blooming but prevents the view of gardens behind the house. Moreover, I don’t remember planting it. Before you start thinking, “Carol Ann has invasive Japanese honeysuckle in her garden,” I’ll tell you it was likely the result of a plant exchange.

This honeysuckle provides an opportunity to answer two readers who asked how to tell Japanese and American honeysuckle apart: look at the leaves. Japanese honeysuckle leaves are dark green on top and

HOME & GARDEN underneath, whereas American honeysuckle leaves are green on top but bluish-green underneath. (In other words, the top and bottoms are not the same color.) Other notable differences: American honeysuckle blooms from late spring to early summer and its flowers look like tubes. Japanese honeysuckle blooms all summer into late autumn and the flowers don’t form tubes. Japanese honeysuckle fruit is a black berry, while the American honeysuckle berry is red—but so many squirrels and birds eating the fruit, it can be easy to miss.

Finally, I decided to finally get rid of the two Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) shrubs. They were planted years ago when we were young homeowners and, of course, they thrived. Japanese

barberry is an invasive species no longer sold in New York state. Its seeds are spread by birds who favor the fruit and, when new plants grow from these seeds at the forest’s edge, they crowd out native species and provide a haven for ticks. You may be wondering what took me so long to remove them. Well, while usually I do my own pruning, Japanese barberry is formidable. Now, I have more room for plants! FY

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November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 7

GENEALOGY

Marriage records A

s my family celebrates two weddings this fall, I’m reminded that these beautiful couples are not just extending existing family trees but, whether they realize it or not, also recording the first significant document in the one they may begin together.

I caution researchers to leave embarking on couple research. It romantic notions behind when may sound cold, but marriage prior

to the nineteenth century was more often an economic partnership than a match made in heaven. You may find marriages of convenience (occurring mere weeks after a spouse passed away), arranged marriages (siblings in family A marrying siblings in family B on the same day), or multiple marriages (my great-great-great aunt outlived five husbands!). You may also find marriages that lasted sixty-plus years, so maybe some romance did creep in.

Marriage records are usually stored with the town or county where the bride and/or groom lived, but some— particularly early ones—may be housed in state archives. Records from more recent years are with the state’s Division of Vital Records. If you can’t locate a couple’s records where you believe they should be, check nearby towns.

Marriage laws may have restricted a couple tying the knot in its own town due to age; perhaps fifteen miles away, parental consent was all that was needed for, let’s say, a twelve-year-old to marry. You may also find records of intent, such as marriage banns (public announcements of marriage intent), marriage bonds (written legal guarantees for upcoming nuptials), applications, or consent papers if the bride or groom was underage.

These records contain details like full names, ages, birthdates, birthplaces, and occupations of the bride and groom, witnesses (often the closest people in their life), parents, time and location of the marriage, name and title of the person performing the ceremony (was it a person of faith or a justice of the peace?), and whether the bride and groom were single, widowed, or

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

CAROL DIPIRRO-STIPKOVITS divorced. These small details can add up to paint a pretty good picture.

To find a church record of a marriage, identify the church your ancestor attended. Newspapers can be a helpful source; engagement and marriage announcements, as well as obituaries, within a family line may offer clues to faith, marriage dates, and places. You may find there were only one or two churches of a particular denomination in the area, which quickly narrows down options. Keep in mind that churches only recorded what they deemed important, so they will likely not include as much vital information and are less likely to be digitized.

For extra fun, head back to the newspaper. A couple’s timeline begins with the engagement, but the wedding announcement might provide innercircle information about a wedding shower or out-of-town visitors. My own parents’ engagement and wedding announcements are two of my favorite finds.

Online, familysearch.org (free), ancestry.com ($), and findmypast.com ($) all contain large record collections.

For the US, try vitalrec.com (search by state), and for other countries, visit cyndislist.com (search M for marriage).

Happy hunting! FY Carol DiPirro-Stipkovits is a National Genealogical Society member, Association of Professional Genealogists member as well as a guest lecturer and freelance writer. Carol is also a board member and President of the Niagara County Genealogical Society. Send questions or comments to her at noellasdaughter@ gmail.com.

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GETAWAYS

Theater Preview

BY DONNA HOKE

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Shea’s 710, presented by All For One Productions

By Simon Stephens, adapted from the Mark Haddon novel of the same name Director: David Oliver Cast: Anthony Alcocer, Wendy Hall, Jake Hayes, Candice Kogut, Sara Kow-Falcone, Pamela Rose Mangus, Dave Marciniak, and Ben Michel Moran The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, a multi-award-winning NOW CELEBRATING OUR

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book, has been given new life as a multi-award-winning play (it cleaned up at the 2013 Olivier and 2015 Tony awards) that’s currently playing at Shea’s 710. Fifteen-year-old Christopher John Francis Boone is a mathematical genius with an unspecified social disorder who becomes curious about the murder of his neighbor’s dog, the titular incident.

Casting the central role in this show is a challenge and while the All For One production team considered casting outside the region, they first wanted to allow Buffalo resident actors to audition. Ultimately, Sam Fesmire landed the complex role. “It’s a wonderful paradox as Christopher lives an obsessively organized and constantly vigilant existence because of his severe sensitivities to noise, relationships, and his social environment,” director David Oliver points out. “The thing is he’s so much more aware of the miraculous details of existence than the adults around him, and here he is surrounded by a confusing adult world of broken relationships and emotional upheavals.

Ultimately, he ends up teaching the adults how to grow.”

The Broadway production of this show featured a jaw-dropping set full

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www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

Image courtesy of Shea's

of technical challenges, but Oliver says he hasn’t sought out designs from any previous versions, preferring instead to start from scratch. In a rare situation, one person—Lynne Koscielniak— will be designing both the set and the lighting, which ensures a seamless integration of its key elements. (Prior to the show’s opening, that set had been waiting on stage since March 2020, when the show played exactly one preview for an audience.)

“We talked about using the whole stage as much as possible including moving pieces to form locations and shifts in Christopher’s world, as well as a high-tech feel,” Oliver says.

“The lighting is the same challenge, the idea of shaping space with light.

We’re also lucky to have Chris Ash, originally from Buffalo, designing the visual projections. He now works on Broadway and in Europe a lot so it’s great that we could get him. Most productions I believe have used literal

projection images but instead Chris will be exploring the emotions of the piece more with color effects, which is interesting. We have a massive and technical set for sure; it’s like a big play room with a lot of action!”

Which, of course, is also the show’s biggest challenge: telling an intimate story on an epic stage and “finding the balance between those two forces,” says Oliver. “You have to go into rehearsals with that balance in mind and then explore the possibilities. Sometimes it’s very intimate and other times it’s chaotic. That’s actually the thing I was most looking forward to!”

Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time runs through November 14 at Shea’s 710 Theatre (sheas.org, 8470850). FY Playwright Donna Hoke writes about theater for Buffalo Spree and Forever Young.

ARTS

Opening November 2 The Band’s Visit After a mix-up at the border, an Egyptian Police Band is sent to a remote village in the middle of the Israeli desert. With no bus until morning and no hotel in sight, these unlikely travelers are taken in by the locals. Under the spell of the desert sky, their lives become intertwined in the most unexpected ways. Winner of ten Tony Awards in 2018 including Best Musical.

Closes November 7. sheas.org, 716-847-1410

November 4 Hand to God Robert Askins’ hilarious comedy is re-opening after the pandemic forced Road Less Traveled to halt the 2020 production after six performances.

When the devoutly religious widow Margery takes over her church’s puppet club, her son Jason’s hand puppet Tyrone takes on a naughty life of its own—Satan’s!

And Tyrone is hellbent on causing trouble by exposing the secrets of this sleepy Texas town. roadlesstraveledproductions.org, 716-629-3069

The Golden Girls: Lost Episodes, Volume 2 The pandemic may have paused these girls, but Blanche, Rose, Sophia, and Dorothy are all back with more cheesecake than you can handle in this fabulous drag parody.

Closes November 21. alleyway.com, 716-852-2600 November 10 All is Calm The WWI Western Front, Christmas 1914. Out of the violence silence, then a song. A remarkable true story, told in the words and songs of the men who lived it. musicalfare.com, 716-839-8540 November 16 Escape to Margaritaville This musical comedy features both original songs and most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics like “Fins,” “Volcano,” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” Escape to Margaritaville is a show USA Today calls “A little slice of paradise!”

Closes November 21. sheas.org, 716-847-1410

November 21 The Woman in Black Arthur Kipps is sent to a small English town to attend a funeral, where he sees a young woman with a wasted face, dressed all in black, standing in the churchyard. His quest to discover her secret comes at a terrible cost. kavinokytheatre.com, 716-881-7668

November 30 Pretty Woman: The Musical Featuring direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde), an original score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (“Summer of ’69,” “Heaven”), and a book by the movie’s director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton, Pretty Woman: The Musical is a new treat for those who love the movie. sheas.org, 716-847-1410

Closing November 14 Songs for a New World This contemporary song cycle is the first musical from Tony award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown. It's full of stories that examine life, love, and the timelessness of self-discovery. secondgenerationtheatre.com, 716508-SGT0

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time When fifteen-year-old Christopher is accused of a crime, this brilliantbrained detective is determined to discover the true culprit. This collaborative production of the Tony Award-winning play, based on the best-selling novel, examines the truth of family, mystery, love, and sacrifice. sheas.org, 716-847-1410

Photograph 51 This critically acclaimed play tells the fascinating story of Rosalind Franklin, one of the great female scientists of the twentieth century, and her quest to map the contours of the DNA molecule. jewishrepertorytheatre.com, 716281-0092

November 20 Looped It’s 1965, and Tallulah Bankhead returns to the recording studio to re-record one final line of dialogue for her final film. Brassy, foul-mouthed and drunk, the infamous actress tries to come to terms with her broken, infamous career. newphoenixtheatre.org, 716-8531334

Something Wicked It’s 1825, a momentous year for Buffalo. The Erie Canal opens and the city holds its first and only public hanging in front of more than 20,000 witnesses. artofwny.org, 716-697-0837

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 11

Bingo Calendar

Bingo Calendar Bingo is back!

Please call event organizers to confirm information provided.

Listings are alphabetical by day.

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TUESDAY AMVETS MEDALLION POST NO. 13 25 Review Pl., Buffalo 7:30 p.m..................................... 874-0559 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

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“Staff truly care” is one family’s sentiment that reflects United Church Manor’s history of serving WNY’s elderly and disabled. For over thirty years, United Church Manor has provided affordable housing opportunities to those with very-low incomes. Located on beautiful, park-like grounds on North Avenue in West Seneca, United Church Manor proudly assists residents in remaining independent, while aging in place with grace and dignity. In addition to updated, open-concept onebedroom and studio units, residents currently enjoy a reading library with computer and internet access, reserved lunch program provided by the Stay Fit Dining Program, an on-site laundry, beautiful outdoor patios, and a brand new picnic grove.

All residents have access to a Service 12

Coordinator who links them to services available in the community.

Apartment rents are based upon individual incomes and income eligibility restrictions apply. Heat and water are included in the rent and an electric allowance is also provided. A completed application and short wait of approximately 6-9 months will make United Church Manor the place you or a loved one can call home. For more information call 716-668-5804.

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

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 DALE ASSOCIATION CENT. 33 Ontario St., Lockport 7 p.m (first two 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

Bingo Calendar SENECA GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT 11099 Route 5, Irving 1 & 7 p.m...................... 1-800-421-2464 ST. AMELIA’S RCC 2999 Eggert Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m.......................................... 836-0011 ST. ANDREW CHURCH 111 Crocker St., Sloan 7:30 p.m..................................... 892-0425 ST. JOHN XXIII 1 Arcade St., W. Seneca 7 p.m.......................................... 823-1090

SUNDAY CARDINAL O'HARA HIGH SCHOOL 39 O'Hara Rd., Tonawanda 1 p.m...............................695-2600 x326 DELEVAN VFC N. Main St., Delevan 7 p.m.......................................... 492-1910 LOCKPORT ELKS LODGE 41 6791 N. Canal Rd., Lockport 7 p.m (first and third Sundays)... 434-2798 OUR LADY OF POMPEII 129 Laverack Ave., Lancaster 2 p.m.......................................... 683-6522

(continued)

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November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 13

FEATURE

Kits

Crafts for the uncrafty STORY AND PHOTO BY REBECCA CUTHBERT

A

s winter gift-giving occasions approach, the crafty are getting, well, crafty, while the rest of us who can’t bead, glue, weave, paint, or draw a straight line are wondering how to make a gift card look “cute.” There is a simple solution for the non-crafty who still want to imbue gifts with a DIY touch: kits. Putting useful items together in neat little packages won’t take an art degree, break the bank, or keep you wrapping gifts until Christmas morning, but your giftees will still know you cared enough to do it yourself. Hallelujah!

To start, make a list of everything you’ll need for your kits. Many of the items can be found inexpensively— hit the dollar store first! —but their combined usefulness will make your gifts priceless, or at least much appreciated. that makes them priceless (or at least highly appreciated).

For the “kids” Your kids may be in their thirties or forties, but you’ll never stop caring about their wellbeing. Go practical and packable with a winter car safety kit. Start with a canvas duffle bag or bookbag, then purchase the following items to put inside:

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Sewing kit in a jar

• Small LED flashlight, with batteries • Gloves and hat • Box of granola bars • Bottles of water • Emergency blanket • Jumper cables • First aid supplies • Multi-tool (like a pocketknife with extra features) • Road flares • Windshield cleaner • Ice scraper • Hand warmers

of all the bits and baubles that can keep a wardrobe snafu from turning into an embarrassing disaster, and toss them in: • Three spools of thread in white, navy, and black (these colors will work for most clothing, at least temporarily) • Small pair of scissors • Handful of common buttons— little white shirt buttons and a couple that would keep pants closed • Safety pins in a few sizes • Two or three sewing needles stuck into a wine cork (for safety)

If you are going for a “deluxe” kit, add a new snowbrush and a small bag of sand for traction in snow. If your son or daughter often travels with your “grandpooch,” throw in a box of biscuits. Stick on a bow and you’re good to go.

For a fancy touch, attach a personalized label or tie a ribbon around the jar. You can even miniaturize this kit for a purse or backpack—put the essentials (one spool of thread, one needle, two buttons, etc.) inside a small pouch. The next time the recipient suffers from a fallen hem or a popped button, they’ll call (or text) to thank you!

For the big grandkids If your grandkids are fresh out of the nest, off at college, or working new jobs, put together a handy sewing kit in a mason jar for quick repairs. (It’s been unscientifically proven that anything looks adorable in a mason jar.) Think

For the little grandkids To little ones, snow isn’t a travel impediment or something to shovel, it’s fun—and nothing is better than a

FEATURE snow day. Help them prepare for the next one with a snow day kit packed full of treats and cozy gear. Pick up an inexpensive tote printed with their favorite cartoon character and fill it with the following: • Hat and mittens • Thick socks • Snow brick mold (for fort construction, of course) • Book • Puzzle • Hot cocoa packets • Marshmallows The book, puzzle, and cocoa will keep them busy while they come inside to thaw out a bit, then they can layer back up for fights and forts.

With the grandkids Be a hero and take pressure off parents by helping your grandkids make gifts for teachers and neighbors.

Jar cookies are a classic for a reason: everyone loves cookies. For this project, you’ll need quart-size mason jars plus

measured dry ingredients from a recipe you like. For example, for chocolate chip cookies: • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips • ¾ cup granulated (white) sugar • ¾ cup brown sugar • 1 teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt Layer the ingredients in the jar one at a time—it will resemble “sand art”— and cap the full jar with a lid and ring.

Write the missing wet ingredients, with amounts and instructions, on one side of a large label, and add a thoughtful message (or child’s drawing) on the other. Tie it on with a piece of ribbon and admire your newfound craftiness.

The kids will be proud they helped, and you can fill an extra jar to put in your own cupboard for baking fun the next time they come over. FY Rebecca Cuthbert lives and writes in Dunkirk. She is a longtime contributor to Forever Young.

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 15

FEATURE

Left: One of the many Bills-themed DIY string art kits available from StudioHue Photos courtesy of StudioHue

Get your craft on with StudioHue

BY TARA ERWIN

P

andemic schedule changes as well as varying levels of social comfort have made it harder to take classes that satisfy the crafting itch. If that’s you, check out StudioHue, the traveling arts and crafts studio that offers a variety of DIY options to enjoy from the safety and comfort of home.

Pre-pandemic, the six-year-old company, hosted what co-owners Alicia Hark and Christine Sugrue dubbed “DIY pARTies,” during which participants gathered at local eateries or the company’s downtown brick and mortar location to eat, drink, and make pre-selected projects, like pallet art or serving trays. The pARTies proved a hit; attendees enjoyed the camaraderie and satisfaction of making Pinterest-worthy creations.

In December 2020, Hark and Sugrue closed the studio and switched to “Hue it Yourself ” and “pARTy in a Box” kits that encouraged customers to craft from home. Knowing this could be daunting for participants used to hands-on instruction, Hark and Sugrue designed the kits to be simple and comprehensive.

“Our kits contain all of the needed supplies: paints, brushes, stencils, transfer paper, tarps, aprons, and step-by-step

instructions,” says Hark. “We also include a URL where people can watch videos to help them with the project, like how to apply a stencil or add string. We really make it as simple as possible so everyone can create a beautiful project regardless of their crafting abilities.”

Each kit is designed to take about two hours to complete.

(Of course, the beauty of athome crafting is that participants need only adhere to their own

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timelines.) While there are twenty kits to choose from, the string art kit is most popular. “Most people pick the buffalo design,” Hark shares, “but we offer lots of choices—paw print, dog, cat, wine, shamrock, New York State, even Baby Yoda.”

DIY kits are available at studiohueevents.com and range from $15 (for an individual mini string art kit) to $45 (for an allseason sign that includes six different holiday charms). PARTy in a Box kits come in packs of four and ship anywhere, but local customers can save shipping costs by picking up at the Totally Buffalo Store in Amherst, which also stocks mini string art and DIY wood sign kits for immediate purchase. Although StudioHue typically has items ready for pickup or shipment within three to five days of order placement, Hark advises ordering by early December for holiday gifts, since shipping delays are once again expected this year.

FEATURE to complete kits together over video. Recently added Christmas and winter projects, including a DIY vintage ceramic light up tree, make the activity extra festive.

“Crafting helps me to relax and not think about my to-do list or other stressors in life,” Hark says.

“You get focused and caught up in your project and nothing else matters. Plus, you can add a glass of your favorite wine; it makes it even better!” FY

StudioHue also offers holiday projects, such as this vintage Christmas tree kit.

DIY kits not only make the perfect gifts but, since StudioHue ships around the country, family and friends can have virtual parties

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Tara Erwin lives and writes in Western New York

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 17

FEATURE

Upcycling update STORY AND PHOTOS

BY CHRISTINE A. SMYCZYNSKI

P

andemic sheltering saw a rise in popularity of “do it yourself” projects. My favorite kind is furniture upcycling; taking and refinishing an old piece of furniture to create something new for your home offers a sense of accomplishment and keeps furniture out of a landfill.

Longtime readers may recall an paint, my dad’s old workbench became article back in 2015 that detailed a side table.

While those projects were satisfying, upcycling furniture from my parents.

I painted various shelving units hot the furniture that had most sentimental pink; they now hold my daughter’s art value to me was an Adirondack style supplies. My deck furniture includes loveseat and two matching chairs. antique wooden chairs that I refinished When my husband and I married and reupholstered. With some new forty-one years ago, we had our photos

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This Adirondack loveseat was upcycled to a planter in 2015...

taken in my parents’ picturesque backyard. Several feature the wedding party sitting on that furniture.

After my mom’s passing in 2009, I helped my father clean and discovered the loveseat and chairs stored in the rafters of his garage. He was happy to give them to me. We used them for seating in our yard and, when they

became too rickety to sit on, I turned them into planter chairs that graced my garden for a few years. When moisture and other elements began breaking down the wood, I had to discard the two smaller seats. Even the loveseat was becoming too frail to support a potted plant.

My husband was skeptical that it

FEATURE

...and, most recently, to a decorative shelf.

could be refurbished, but I wasn’t ready to part with it. I converted it into a shelving unit by cutting the legs down and removing part of the seat, leaving enough wood to support a shelf.

After reinforcing and spraying it with varnish, I used yarn both for further reinforcement and aesthetic appeal.

The unit now sits atop our TV cabinet;

I change the decorations seasonally.

Another recent upcycling project was refinishing a desk chair for my daughter, Jennifer, an art teacher. At Christmastime, we move the furniture in the bay window area of our living room so we can put our tree there.

Last year, however, I didn’t get a chance to move the furniture back

for a few days after we took the tree down. Jennifer noticed the open space and commented, “Wouldn’t this area make a nice little art studio?” She was surprised when her father and I agreed with her! (Maybe it had something to do with the easel she had gotten a few years earlier; it was still in the box because she had nowhere to set it up.)

To define the space, we added a different paint color around the window, put down a rug, set up her easel, moved a desk from another part of the house, and bought a rolling cart for art supplies.

However, we only had a folding chair for the desk. We searched in stores and online for a better alternative, but everything was either too expensive or didn’t have the right look.

Then one day this past January, Jennifer arrived home from work excited because she’d noticed that a neighbor had put a chair out by the road for garbage collection. While the chair was an ugly color—and covered with decals—and the seat fabric was worn, it was sturdy, and it had potential. We

grabbed it and good thing we did; it snowed hard a few hours later.

We couldn’t start working until spring, since we prefer to sand and spray paint outdoors. Taking off the old paint and decals was a lot of work (thank goodness for power sanders!).

After priming, we spray painted the wood a metallic rose gold. We bought foam for the cushion and, since I had fabric left over from when I made the living room drapes, I was able to make a matching seat cover. The final product fits in perfectly with the rest of the art studio.

Whether your inspiration comes from something handed down or something you pick up on your own, upcycling furniture is a creative way to give old items new life. I’m always looking for my next project. Keep your eyes open; maybe you’ll find one too.

FY

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

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 19

GETAWAYS

Letchworth

Always beautiful, always improving

BY ELIZABETH LICATA The beautiful autumn foliage at Letchworth State Park Photo by Stephen Gabris

M

any Buffalonians have been to Letchworth at least once in their lives, but regular visitors know that the park is always adding amenities. Recent improvements include the Humphrey Nature Center, completed in 2016, which interprets the geology, wildlife, and botany of the park and includes a butterfly garden and bird observation station. Designed by Buffalo firm HHL Architects, the timber and fieldstone facility contains a gorge wall that faithfully replicates the chasm’s rock face.

Overnighters should check out Parker’s Hideaway (newly renovated) and Maplewood Lodge—for those who prefer some glam with their camping—as well as the usual array of rustic cabins and camping sites.

There are sixty-six-miles-worth of built as a country retreat for William The Glen Iris Inn offers its own trails criss-crossing Letchworth, but Prior Letchworth, who left it and the guest accommodations as well as some are better than others for leaf dining, and there are five other lodging park to New York State, it offers one of the most spectacular views in the park peeping. Experts recommend the options—most with luxury features— Letchworth Gorge Trail as a top choice; from its generous windows. as well as the main inn. Originally

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it covers seven miles along the west side of the Genesee River and includes two major waterfall views. It’s also well marked and relatively easy. A fourmile portion of the Gorge Trail that leads down to Inspiration Point and the Lower falls is also recommended.

A shorter trail, with views that alltrailscom members call “awesome.” “amazing,” and “very beautiful,” the one-point-seven-mile walk includes a waterful and large, crystal clear pool as well as gorgeous foliage.

Outside of the park, the town of Perry offers a wonderful farmers’ market (Saturdays), the Hole in the Wall restaurant, East Hill Creamery cheesemakers, and the Silver Lake Brewing Project. East Hill Creamery is the only producer of comté cheese in the United States. The firm, nutty cheese is called Silver Lake and made in sixty-pound wheels that are aged for a full year. This prizewinner has helped make East Hill famous. Eat Hill by itself is a great reason to start In Perry for late morning shopping and lunch before embarking on the Grand Canyon of the East. FY Elizabeth Licata is editor-in-chief of Buffalo Spree.

See Three major waterfalls, many smaller waterfalls, fifty varieties of trees, bald eagles, and wide variety of other wildlife; historic sites include a restored Seneca Council House and the grave of Mary Jemison.

Shop Letchworth Arts & Crafts Show, October 9–10, Perry Village Park Eat/drink Glen Iris Inn, Lumber Yard, Hole in the Wall, Silver Lake Brewing Project Visit parks.ny.gov/parks/79/details. aspx and gowyomingcountyny. com for many other suggestions.

BUFFALO 60 STRONG A constant voice of reason and positivity, Cretekos proudly spouts his personal motto, “You can’t go wrong with strong.” He encourages others to maintain good physical health through strength training and healthy eating habits so they can get out and do whatever they dream of doing.

“You may not be the best at it, but you want to be the best you can be,” says Cretekos. “You’re not too old to be relevant, you’re not too old to enjoy life.” FY

George Cretekos

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

BY ASHLEY ZIOMEK

World-class power skier George Cretekos Photo by Elliot Cramer

I

n 1976, just married George Cretekos began experiencing chest pain and joint swelling, symptoms consistent with a heart attack. This puzzled the twenty-three-year-old, who’d always enjoyed good health and high levels of physical activity. Cretekos drove himself to the hospital where he was immediately evaluated by the emergency team. “After numerous tests, they came up with this rare disease called Sarcoidosis,” he says. “Basically, tissue, organs, primary lymph nodes swell to the point [that] they interrupt the function of the heart and lungs.”

Cretekos’ work as a fulltime officer and field trainer for the Allegany County Sheriff’s Department did not allow for pause. “I overcame it,” he says.

“I was doing all of the things I intended to do with my life at that point. I was determined not to let it hinder me in any way.”

Cretekos is also a worldclass power skier, level three ski instructor, and staff trainer at Bristol Mountain. “[Being a power skier] requires an incredible amount of strength,” he says.

Cretekos simultaneously navigates osteoarthritis (also known as “wear and tear arthritis”) and Sarcoidosis with a “train smarter, not harder” attitude. “Being diagnosed with a rare inflammatory disease at a younger age, you take note of the fact that health is important,” he says. “Good health is not guaranteed; you have to work at it.” Cretekos still suffers side effects from the disease but does not let them slow him down; his colleagues jokingly call him “the freak of nature.”

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 21

BEING WELL

Mastication A worthy practice

BY CATHERINE STACK

I

love to eat and while I most often choose healthy, wholesome food, I can definitely work on slowing down long enough to enjoy each bite rather than inhaling my meals. This is important for reasons beyond savoring; mastication, more commonly known as chewing, is vital to digestion.

Think of masticating as internal When food is in the mouth, taste juicing. Nutrients are distributed buds on the tongue prompt the release rapidly to cells that need them, and of hormones, digestive enzymes, and gastric juices that soften and liquefy the broken-down food is better lubricated, food in preparation for passage to the which makes for easier travel through the digestive tract. Well-chewed food stomach. Mastication gives the food also has more surface area for gastric time to mix with saliva and enzymes juices and enzymes to work on once such as lingual lipase, an enzyme that it arrives in the stomach. The stomach breaks down fats. The longer the food is exposed to lingual lipase, the better churns until food has turned to an acidic and easier digestion will be so by fluid called chyme, a job that requires chewing longer, you give your body a much of the body’s available energy.

The better you chew, the less energy digestive head start.

you’ll divert from other important tasks.

Chewing well decreases the amount of time food will spend in the stomach, which helps reduce fermentation,

gas, and burping—even heartburn.

Proper chewing also reduces choking risk and stimulates the parotid glands, which can boost the immune system.

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BEING WELL Individuals who do not sufficiently chew their food are more likely to suffer abdominal discomfort and bloating.

Proper chewing may take a bit of practice. Start by making a conscious effort to chew each mouthful twenty to twenty-five times before swallowing. You will likely have to count at first, but it will soon become habit. You will come to know what a well-chewed piece of food feels like and will not easily swallow large pieces as you once did. Eating on-the-go is not conducive to proper digestion and should be avoided.

The idea that drinking helps wash food down the pipe is a common misperception; fluids hinder digestion because digestive juices become diluted and less potent. Try to avoid drinking fifteen minutes before and after eating.

For frequent heartburn sufferers, taking digestive enzymes before eating can assist the body in expediting and optimizing the digestive process. Look for products that contain plant-based enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and

protease. One of my favorite brands is DIGESTION by Optimal Health Systems.

If you make proper chewing a priority, you may reduce your need for digestive aids and medications. And, because chewing well slows down the eating process, you will ultimately eat less while also increasing enjoyment of food as you notice more flavors and improve your digestive health in the cheapest, easiest way possible. 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.

November 2021 | www.foreveryoungwny.com 23

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What’s New? 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 editor Sabrina Kahwaty at skahwaty@ foreveryoungwny.com.

Buddy Shula WECK Owner/President 24

Cash For Your Old Toys: Trains And Railroad Items, 1 Piece Or Entire Estate, Collections Wanted!!

Working Or Broken, Check Your Attic Or Basement. Call 684-7786 Or 877-4799.

North Tonawanda Senior Housing.

AD DEADLINE IS NO LATER THAN NOVEMBER 10TH

THE BIG WECK I have been anxiously waiting to tell you about the great things going on at The Big WECK radio!

In addition to our exciting new name and logo, The Big WECK is proud to announce the return of Buffalo Radio Hall of Famer Joe Chille. He’s back at WECK for weekday suppertimes, 3-6 p.m.

Joe joins WECK Buffalo Radio Broadcast Hall of Famers Tom Donahue (weekday mornings from 6-10 a.m.), Roger Christian (10 a.m.-3 p.m.), and Bobby O (weekday evenings from 6-9 p.m.)

The Big WECK is made in Buffalo, and proud to be your source for great oldies, sports, weather from Channel 2’s Storm Team 2 Weather Center, and, of course, local news (without the opinions and blabbering of other stations).

Find The Big WECK at 1230AM, 102.9FM 100.1FM, and 100.5FM, download the free WECK app on a mobile device or tablet, stream live with the Audacy app or at bigweck. com, or ask Alexa to “play WECK.” As always, thanks for listening, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

PAYING CASH

FOR RENT

www.foreveryoungwny.com | November 2021

1st floor spacious 2 bdrm apt in Kenmore. Convenient location, excellent condition! New floors, carpeting and fresh paint Incl. appliances, air cond. & parking. $1000/month. Tenant pays all utilities.

Call for details 716-713-7671

WANTED TO BUY BUYING SOUTH BUFFALO Railway Items. Highest Prices Paid. 716684-7786.

NOVEMBER SOLUTION SOLU TION

NOTEWORTHY November 4, 11, 18 Art Moves Me

November 5 Grieg Piano Concerto

Created expressly for The Center by Cynthia Pegado and designed for people with Parkinson’s, Art Moves Me guides participants into creative engagement with artworks through contemplative dance, sensory awareness, heightening of kinesthetic and proprioceptive senses, and sustainable practices to enhance emotional, psychological, and social well-being.

The entrancing keyboard flourishes of Grieg’s only piano concerto are executed by the esteemed Joyce Yang in her return engagement with the BPO.

Noon–2 p.m., Burchfield Penney Art Center (1300 Elmwood Avenue; burchfieldpenney.org, 878-6011)

November 10 All is Calm

10:30 a.m. at Kleinhans Music Hall, 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6 (3 Symphony Circle; bpo.org, 885-5000)

November 20–30 Poinsettia and Railway Exhibit Get in the mood for the holidays by viewing different colors and varieties of poinsettias, accompanied by a festive model train exhibit. Reservations required.

The WWI Western Front, Christmas 1914. Out of the violence silence, then a song. A remarkable true story, told in the words and songs of the men who lived it.

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens (2655 S. Park Avenue; buffalogardens.org, 827-1584)

musicalfare.com, 716-839-8540

November 25 Turkey Trot The 8k live run/walk begins outside of the Delaware Family YMCA and runs downtown to the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center for a post-race party. There is also a virtual version. Check the website. Preregistration required.

9 a.m., Delaware Family YMCA (2564 Delaware Avenue; runsignup.com/Race/Events/NY/Buffalo/YMCATurkeyTrot)

EXPERIENCED ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES WANTED 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

is growing!

Join our team at WNY’s longest-running publication for mature adults!

Full and/or part-time position includes competitive compensation and health benefits.

Email resumes in confidence to Publisher, Barbara Macks at bmacks@buffalospree.com

Thank you for making WECK Radio the #1 station for Oldies in Buf falo bigweck.com