Unleashing the Playful
Spirit
The All-New 2024 E-Class has Arrived at Mercedes-Benz of Buffalo
The all-new 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class features a sleek and modern design with elegant lines and a refined aesthetic. It showcases a distinctive front grille, LED headlights, and a sculpted body that exudes sophistication. The interior is luxurious and spacious, with premium materials and advanced technology seamlessly integrated throughout the cabin. Its design reflects a perfect balance of style, comfort, and innovation.
There have been various technological upgrades in the latest E-Class model. For example, this E-Class features the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, which includes a large touchscreen display, voice control, and advanced navigation features. Augmented Reality Navigation has been added which overlays directions onto a live camera feed of
the road ahead, making it easier for drivers to follow directions. It’s equipped with active parking assist, which helps drivers park in tight spaces by automatically steering the vehicle into a parking spot. A range of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking have been added, enhancing safety and convenience on the road.
The interior has a range of customization options to suit individual preferences and style. Some of the available customization options may include premium leather upholstery in various colors and finishes, wood trim accents or carbon fiber trim for a luxurious touch, ambient lighting with customizable colors to create a personalized atmosphere, multi-contour seats with massage function for enhanced
comfort during long drives, and advanced infotainment system with options for upgraded sound systems and entertainment features. You can further personalize your vehicle by selecting from a variety of packages and individual options to create a bespoke driving experience.
Overall, the E-Class includes powerful engine options, smooth handling, and responsive acceleration. It’s known for its dynamic driving experience, offering a blend of performance and comfort for an enjoyable ride around Buffalo.
For detailed and up-to-date information on the performance specifications of the all-new E-Class, stop by Mercedes-Benz of Buffalo or visit www.MercedesBenzBuffalo.com.
Unleashing the Playful Spirit
Hey everyone!
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Ally Fazzalaro | ally.fazzalaro@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Nicholas Zielinski | nicholas.zielinski@citylifestyle.com
As summer kicks in and we soak up the sunshine, our magazine is all about celebrating something close to our hearts: the amazing bond between kids and our pets. Pets aren’t just part of the furniture—they’re family! Whether it’s a goofy dog who's always up for a game of fetch, a purring cat that curls up on your lap, or even a cuddly rabbit who hops around the yard, they teach us so much. They show us responsibility - as kids learn to feed and care for them. They teach empathy as they comfort us when we’re sad or scared. And let’s not forget the pure fun and companionship, they’re always there for a laugh or a cuddle. As we dive into these summer months, let’s take a moment to appreciate the little buddies who make our days brighter. They remind us of the simple joys and the magic of unconditional love. Thanks for being part of our community and for supporting our magazine. We can’t wait to hear your stories and celebrate the special bond between kids and pets with all of you!
ALLY FAZZALARO, PUBLISHER @AMHERSTCITYLIFESTYLE
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
city scene
business monthly
WNY’S Premier Retail Destination
The BFLO Store was founded by Buffalo Businessman, Nathan Mroz. With over a decade of experience, The BFLO Store has become the exclusive designation as Official Retailer of the Buffalo Bills and Sabres. Nathan has built a retail destination for all things Buffalo, including officially licensed sports apparel, Buffalo themed apparel, goods, and more! BFLO’s store locations include: Transitown Plaza, Walden Galleria Mall, McKinley Mall, and our online store at bfloshop.com
Scan to read more
Oxford Pennant Releasing Disney Products
Oxford Pennant is bringing Disney-licensed products to its line-up! This hometown manufacturer has acquired the right to print your favorite Disney characters and themes on their beautifully designed pennants. In a LinkedIn post, Oxford Pennant co-founder David Horesh wrote, the release is “the first of several upcoming licensed launches” with Walt Disney Co.
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"200 Main" Coming to Tonawanda
Longtime bar in Tonawanda "Dome" is being turned into a new bar/restaurant called "200 Main". This hometown fave will feature an expanded outdoor dog friendly patio for your 4 legged friends!
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Pet Shop
Treats Unleashed Inc. treatsunleashed.com/ | 716.831.1350
Dogs Eat Rite dogseatrite.com/ | 716.204.8207
Ohh! You Dirty Dog! ohhyoudirtydog.com/ | 716.633.1134
Wild Birds Unlimited eastamherst.wbu.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=local&utm_ campaign=localmaps&utm_content=483 | 716.458.0228
Purely Pets purelypetsstore.com/ | 716.240.0669
Kid's Activity
The Little Gym of Williamsville thelittlegym.com/new-york-williamsville/ | 716.475.4433
The Warrior Factory Buffalo North - Williamsville williamsville.thewarriorfactory.com/ | 716.276.3491
Rolly Pollies of East Amherst rpwny.com/ | 716.689.6151
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Explore & More - The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum exploreandmore.org/ | 716.655.5131
716 Ninja Academy hybridninjafitness.com/# Phone Number | (716) 481-9611
ADVENTURE CAMP: 5811 Rt 16 Hinsdale, NY 14743 August 25th | 9-4 pm
YOGA • MEDITATION MIND CLEARING HIKE CREATIVE CRAFTS CANVAS PAINTING
JOURNALING • TEJAS PRACTICE
$70 | LUNCH PROVIDED ALONG WITH GIFT FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT
JANICE HOLMES | 716-697-5480 Registration on EVENTBRITE COREMESS@YAHOO.COM VCOREMESSWELLNESS
Unveiling the Roots
THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTION COACHING FOR THE FAMILY - HELPING FAMILIES GO FROM STRUGGLING TO THRIVING!
ARTICLE BY JENNY KUPCZYK
There are so many aspects that make up the dynamics of a family that can cause chaos ~ different interests, personalities, beliefs and opinions to name a few. One aspect that often causes a lot of chaos within the family is when one or more family members struggle with executive function challenges.
Think of executive functioning skills as the command center of the brain. They help inhibit and self-regulate behavior. Executive functioning challenges do not discriminate! They can impact any member of the family of any age ~ mom, dad, brother and/or sister!
It is very often that multiple family members struggle with various challenges that seem insurmountable. Issues like self-regulation, time management, attention, judgment, impulse control, and working memory can feel like the branches of a tree, spreading out and creating a web of difficulties that impact every aspect of their lives and the family’s life as well. However, just as a tree’s health is determined by the condition of its roots, so too are these visible challenges rooted in the deeper, fundamental characteristics of executive functioning challenges.
The good news is that understanding and addressing these roots can bring about profound changes that can be felt throughout the entire family! This is why learning a comprehensive approach to help the family develop the skills needed to thrive is vital!
THE VISIBLE BRANCHES: COMMON EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CHALLENGES
Self-Regulation and Impulse Control: Many children (and adults) struggle to manage their emotions and behaviors. This can manifest as sudden outbursts, difficulty staying calm in stressful situations, or an inability to resist immediate temptations. These challenges are the visible branches of deeper executive functioning issues.
Motivation: Lack of motivation is another branch that is frequently observed. One may have difficulty starting tasks, staying engaged, or persisting through challenges. This isn’t simply a matter of laziness but often a symptom of underlying executive functioning deficits.
Time Management and Organization: A person with executive functioning challenges often struggle to manage their time effectively. They may miss deadlines or appointments, forget assignments, or have trouble planning their schedules. This issue with time management often negatively impacts the entire family. This can lead to a chaotic and stressful life for the family.
Attention and Working Memory: Issues with sustaining attention in things less interesting and holding information in working memory are common. One may find it hard to focus on tasks, follow instructions, or remember important details. This can affect academic/work performance and daily functioning as well as cause a lot of frustration among the family.
DIGGING DEEP: UNDERSTANDING THE ROOTS OF EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONING CHALLENGES - THE IMPORTANCE OF FOCUSING ON THE SOLUTION OPPOSED TO THE PROBLEM
To truly help the family unit, we must go beyond addressing the surface-level ‘symptoms’ (the branches) and dig deep to understand the roots of these challenges. This can be done by creating personalized strategies and support to develop stronger cognitive skills that will benefit the entire family. Executive function Coaching can truly be life changing for the entire family!
1. Assessment and Understanding: The first step is a thorough assessment to identify the specific areas of struggle. This involves understanding individual strengths and weaknesses and how these affect their daily life and the family’s daily life.
2. Personalized Strategies: Based on the assessment, we develop personalized strategies to help the needed family member(s) improve their executive functioning skills. This might include techniques for improving working memory, such as using visual aids or breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For time management, you might learn how to use planners or digital tools to keep track of assignments and deadlines.
3. Skill Development: Focus on developing specific skills needed to succeed. This involves regular practice and reinforcement of these skills in various contexts. 100% focus on what is relevant.
4. Building Self-Awareness and Confidence: A crucial piece of the puzzle is to develop self-awareness about your challenges and how to manage them. This builds confidence and empowers you to take control of your own learning and behavior. Over time, you learn to apply these skills independently, leading to long-term improvements.
CULTIVATING STRONG ROOTS FOR LIFELONG SUCCESS AND THE IMPACT ON FAMILIES
The benefits of executive functioning coaching extend beyond the individual(s) struggling. Families gain a deeper understanding of challenges and how to support family members effectively. This collaborative approach fosters a supportive environment where families can thrive! It’s an investment in their future (and the family’s future) providing the tools needed to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and success. Together, we can help to cultivate the strong roots needed to thrive.
Just as a tree’s strength and health depend on its roots, each family member’s success is deeply rooted in their executive functioning skills. By addressing these foundational issues through coaching, we can help others overcome their challenges and reach their full potential. It’s not just about managing the visible branches but nurturing the roots to ensure they grow strong and resilient.
I want to extend a personal invitation to join me on Zoom where I will specifically address Back to School “Tips & Tricks” to THRIVE for Parents and Students. Check the Events Calendar for Zoom links.
RESCUING HEARTS, ONE PAW AT A TIME: THE INSPIRING STORY OF PIXIE MAMAS RESCUE IN BUFFALO, NY
FINDING FOREVER HOMES
In the heart of our hometown lies a haven of hope and compassion for dogs in need. Pixie Mamas Rescue, a dedicated volunteer-run organization, stands as a beacon of love and care for small breed dogs and those with special medical needs.
One of the distinguishing features of Pixie Mamas Rescue is their emphasis on special medical cases. They often take in dogs with complex health issues, ranging from chronic conditions to severe injuries. Through partnerships with veterinary special-
FOSTERING PLAYS A CRUCIAL ROLE IN PIXIE MAMAS RESCUE'S OPERATION.
Founded on the belief that every dog deserves a second chance, Pixie Mamas Rescue has been transforming the lives of furry companions since its inception. Their mission extends beyond simple rescue; it encompasses rehabilitation, fostering, and ultimately finding forever homes for these often overlooked animals.
At the core of Pixie Mamas Rescue is its founder, Lisa Jane. Her journey began with a single dog in need, but her passion and dedication soon inspired a community of like-minded volunteers and supporters. Together, they form the backbone of this remarkable rescue operation, driven by a shared commitment to making a difference, one wagging tail at a time.
The rescue's efforts are not confined to geographical boundaries; they reach across states to save dogs from high-kill shelters, where their chances of survival are slim. Pixie Mamas Rescue steps in, providing medical care, rehabilitation, and the nurturing environment necessary for these dogs to heal and thrive.
ists and dedicated foster families, they ensure that each dog receives the personalized care needed to improve their quality of life.
Fostering plays a crucial role in Pixie Mamas Rescue's operation. It serves as a bridge between rescue and adoption, offering dogs a temporary home where they can experience love and stability. Foster families not only provide basic care but also play a vital role in assessing the dog's personality and needs, which helps in finding the perfect match for their forever home.
The journey of a dog through Pixie Mamas Rescue begins with intake and assessment. Each dog receives a comprehensive health check and behavioral evaluation to determine the best course of action. From there, they enter the foster program, where they receive socialization and any necessary medical treatment.
For prospective adopters, Pixie Mamas Rescue ensures a thorough matchmaking process. They prioritize compatibility and suitability, aiming
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for a successful long-term adoption that benefits both the dog and the adopting family. This approach has led to countless heartwarming success stories, where dogs once facing uncertainty now thrive in loving homes.
Community engagement is also a cornerstone of Pixie Mamas Rescue's work. They actively promote responsible pet ownership through education and outreach programs. By raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering, proper veterinary care, and positive training methods, they aim to reduce the number of dogs in need of rescue in the future.
The impact of Pixie Mamas Rescue extends beyond the dogs they directly save. They inspire compassion and empathy in the community, fostering a culture where every life—no matter how small or seemingly insignificant—is valued and cherished.
We have first hand experience with Pixie Mamas rescue as Ally adopted Mambo from this service. Mambo was rescued from a farm in Texas where he was left alone, outside, uncared for. He has since been thriving in Buffalo with Ally and his new family. It took Mambo time to get adjusted to his new life, but he now enjoys being outdoors, playing with
MAMBO IS AN ACTIVE, LOVING, HIGH ENERGY PUP.
his friends and enjoying all of the pet friendly places that Buffalo has to offer. Mambo is an active, loving, and high energy pup who is always a crowd favorite wherever he goes. You will certainly see Mambo out and about in the community, be sure to give him a high-paw!
Support for Pixie Mamas Rescue comes from various sources, including donations, fundraisers, and dedicated volunteers. Their network of supporters spans far and wide, united by a shared belief in the power of rescue and rehabilitation. Through collaboration and collective effort, they continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of dogs and the people who open their hearts to them.
In a world where headlines can be muddy and convoluted, Pixie Mamas Rescue stands as a testament to the best. Their unwavering dedication, boundless compassion, and tireless advocacy serve as an inspiration to us all. They remind us that through kindness and perseverance, we can create a brighter future for those who cannot speak for themselves.
ARTICLE BY JAKE FEY
performance CRYOTHERAPY REVOLUTIONIZES STUDENT ATHLETE
ENHANCED RECOVERY, IMPROVED PERFORMANCE, AND MENTAL WELL-BEING THROUGH COLD THERAPY
In the competitive realm of student athletics, cryotherapy has emerged as a significant trend due to its potential to enhance performance, aid recovery, and support overall well-being. Cryotherapy involves brief exposure to extremely cold temperatures, typically around -200°F, for a few minutes. Here’s how it benefits student athletes:
Cryotherapy primarily accelerates recovery by reducing inflammation and muscle soreness. This process, which constricts blood vessels and lowers metabolic activity, facilitates quicker removal of toxins from muscles, allowing athletes to recover faster and resume training sooner.
Cryotherapy primarily accelerates recovery by reducing inflammation and muscle soreness. This process, which constricts blood vessels and lowers metabolic activity, facilitates quicker removal of toxins from muscles, allowing athletes to recover faster and resume training sooner. For student athletes experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), cryotherapy provides relief by numbing nerve endings and triggering endorphin release, thereby reducing pain and improving well-being.
Regular cryotherapy sessions contribute to improved athletic performance by decreasing recovery time and enhancing blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles. This can lead to better endurance and overall performance, while the mental clarity from endorphin release offers a psychological edge. In terms of injury prevention, cryotherapy strengthens muscles and joints, reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing of micro-injuries. This resilience helps athletes maintain peak performance throughout the season.
Beyond physical benefits, cryotherapy supports mental health by reducing stress and anxiety levels through endorphin release, crucial for athletes balancing academic and athletic pressures. Additionally, cryotherapy boosts the immune system, protecting athletes from illnesses and infections, and enhances sleep quality by reducing discomfort and promoting relaxation.
Metabolically, cryotherapy increases metabolic rate, aiding calorie burning and weight management, crucial during intense training phases. Skin health also improves with cryotherapy, as it boosts blood flow and reduces inflammation, benefiting athletes prone to skin issues due to sweating and equipment use. Lastly, cryotherapy is convenient, with sessions lasting a few minutes, fitting well into busy student schedules without the setup required for traditional ice baths.
In conclusion, cryotherapy offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by student athletes, supporting accelerated recovery, enhanced performance, mental well-being, and overall health. As its popularity grows, more student athletes are incorporating cryotherapy into their routines to achieve peak performance while managing their demanding schedules effectively.
Whether your pup has the obedience of a dog show finalist, or social behavior that makes you want to play dead around others, you can develop more owner confidence with help from this expert trainer.
“Socializing your dog is beneficial for both dogs and their owners,” says Taryn Tyler, a certified dog trainer. “It creates confidence for both dogs and owners and displaces the anxiety we feel when our dogs aren’t behaving like we want them to.”
Taryn says that boundaries can be learned by dogs of any age.
“There’s a nasty perception along the ‘can’t teach an old dog new tricks’ line of thinking,” she says. “While you can’t take a dog with serious behavioral issues and completely turn them around 180 degrees, you can make improvements in how you understand your dog and how they understand you. Dog training isn’t just for struggling pups either. Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
ARTICLE
BY LISA MOYER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE
JONES
STYLED BY ANGELA
BROOCKERD
“Creating a relationship between you and your canine based on confidence, reliability and reward can turn a good dog into a great dog.”
Taryn stresses that teaching a dog to sit or stay is less about tricks and more about the relationship that builds between animal and owner. “That, in turn, fosters an environment where the next time a family hosts Thanksgiving or has friends over, the owner and their dogs fall into the habit of obeying commands because of the confidence built through all the work put in beforehand.”
Even dogs with a troubled history can achieve improvement.
“We all love our dogs, but they can be stressful when they can’t seem to click in our home environments.
DOG SOCIALIZING TIPS:
• Socializing is more than taking your dog in public. A guy can dump a bunch of mulch in your driveway and spread it, but he’s not a landscaper until he’s following a plan. When the doorbell rings or a visitor comes into the house, what’s our expectation for the dog? When we’re in public and the dog’s attention is diverted, what’s our plan to refocus them? Socialization is 99 percent working on small steps as part of a larger plan.
• Socializing isn’t about our dogs being the center of attention in public. Everyone loves seeing a dog, but our best outcome for the dog is to go unnoticed. Sitting by our side, ignoring external stimuli, remaining calm—those are things we strive for when socializing a dog.
• When socializing dogs with other dogs, start small. Take a walk with another dog to get them to just exist in the same vicinity. Once they’re able to not be excited by the other dog, work on limited playing in controlled environments.
• If someone comes into your home, let them know what boundaries you’re working on with your dog. You can even suggest asking them to carry a few treats and work on some of the behaviors your dog is already comfortable with.
HOW TO THROW A BIRTHDAY BASH FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS:
Once your dog is able to socialize with other pets, playdates are a great way to encourage good play behavior. One way to celebrate your pup’s birthday is to celebrate with their favorite furry friends. Here are a few helpful tips for making your gathering a success.
• Set up play areas for your furry guests to enjoy. This can include a doggy pool or splash pad, chew toys, frisbees, and don’t forget the pet-friendly bubbles.
• Offer party guests birthday attire such as a birthday hat, bandana or party outfit. Set up a photo wall for pet owners to get photos with their furry friends in their birthday outfits. Better yet, make it a costume competition, and invite guests to come dressed up ready to show off their pup’s attire.
• Create a treat display with a pet-friendly birthday cake and various chewy snacks for guests to give their pups.
• Party favors are a must to end your festivities with a bang. Fill party bags with bouncy balls, treats, and pet-friendly bubbles to send your guests off with a smile.
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
INDOOR PLANT GUIDE
Investing in indoor plants can not only spruce up your living space, but also bring numerous health and well-being benefits
Bringing the outdoors in with the use of house plants is a great way to add color and dimension to your space. We sat down with Jesse Nelson at Family Tree Nursery, based in Kansas, and discussed the benefits of incorporating plant life into your home. “There are plenty of studies on the health benefits of plants, and the evidence suggests that being around plants and caring for plant life increases overall wellness,” explains Nelson. “Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.” There are a wide variety of indoor plants that work for any space and light situation that you may have. Regardless if you have a green thumb or a black thumb, there are plant varieties that fit your lifestyle. Here are a few of our favorite indoor plants to incorporate into your home.
ANTHURIUM:
Anthurium has gorgeous, colorful flowers and is the easiest indoor flowering plant to care for. It comes in a variety of colors including red, white, orange and purple. Anthurium likes to be dry, so let it go bone dry before watering. Fertilize every so often, especially when blooming. These plants do not like direct sunlight and can be repotted every three to five years.
HOPE PEPEROMIA:
This cascading plant is gaining popularity due to its succulent-like leaves and also because it is fairly easy to care for. The Hope Peperomia likes medium to bright direct sunlight. It does well as a tabletop plant or a hanging plant. Watering is only needed one time a month regardless of plant size.
“Anytime you bring a plant into a home or work environment, it’s going to make you feel better. It is going to beautify the space in a way that art cannot, and they also have the added benefit of purifying the air.”
This is a slow-growing variety that is architectural and compact. This plant is a great statement piece and looks great in an entryway or by a chair. There are a lot of varieties and colors of the Dracaena. They are very resilient in low light and are great for an office space with little or no light. They like to stay on the dry side, so they like to be watered when they are about ½ to ¾ of the way dry. When watering, give it a good soak. Pro tip: A moisture meter can be purchased and used to determine how dry your plant is to help determine when it is time to water again.
DRACAENA JANET-CRAIG COMPACTA:
AUGUST 13TH
Business After Hours: Harter Secrest & Emery & Prova 40 Fountain Plaza Buffalo NY 14202 | 5:00 PM
For more information please visit Amherst.org !
AUGUST 15TH
“Tips & Tricks” to THRIVE for Parents and Students #1
Zoom | 8:30 AM
Join Jenn Kupczyk for tips and tricks on getting kids back to school! Please find the zoom link here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81 49691522?omn=89796575911
AUGUST 16TH
Amherst City Lifestyle Monthly Pop Up
TBD | 6:00 PM
Please be sure to check our socials, website and upcoming issues for more details about this monthly networking event! https://citylifestyle.com/amherst
AUGUST 19TH
“Tips & Tricks” to THRIVE for Parents and Students #2
Zoom | 12:00 PM
Join Jenn Kupczyk for tips and tricks on getting kids back to school! Please find the zoom link here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/8 149691522?omn=82081809556
AUGUST 25TH
Coremess Wellness: Escape Retreat
Adventure Camp 5811 Rt 16 Hinsdale, NY 14743 | 10:00 AM
Yoga + Meditation
Mind Clearing Hike
Creative Crafts
Canvass Printing
Journaling
Lunch provided with gift
Registration on Eventbrite or email coremess@yahoo.com
AUGUST 31ST
National Buffalo Wing Festival
Highmark Stadium | 12:00 PM
The Buffalo Wing Festival is a two-day Labor Day weekend affair with two decades of history and a culinary tradition of offering wings from about 25 different places. Come Saturday and Sunday to try new chicken wings from our favorite local spots and spots from across the country! Please visit https://buffalowing.com/ for more information,
Caroline Raimy
