Recorded Classes

It is a misconception that trusts are complicated, expensive, and only for the wealthy. This simple exploration will be free of legalese and will include a Q&A session. Instructor: Valerie Stanek, Esq., certified financial planner, attorney at law *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 30, 2021. 

Rather than jumping onto the newest fad diet train, learn three foundational habits that can help you be successful long-term, no matter your health goals. Instructor: Jenny Ferrentino, MS, RDN, Wegmans nutritionist *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on July 1, 2021. 

What we think of today as the Erie Canal bears almost no resemblance to the first Erie Canal. We'll focus on the story of the original canal, which was built between 1817 and 1825. That story includes both its construction and its importance to American history. We will also look briefly at how that original canal changed through two centuries to become today's Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. Instructor: Mary Durlak, Writer/Editor, Docent & Volunteer, Explore Buffalo; Erie Canal Enthusiast *This is a recording of the live streamign session that took place on June 30, 2021. 

Learn about the ranges for high blood pressure, the risk factors, and treatment paths. Instructor: Darcie Hanson, R.N., clinical coach, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 29, 2021. 

Learn the answers to the health insurance and long-term care insurance questions you have always had but were afraid to ask. Instructor: Bill Daniels, Coordinator of Insurance Outreach, Erie County Department of Senior Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 28, 2021. 

Learn the answers to commonly asked questions about residential communities and downsizing. Instructor: Michael Olear, MSW, Lead Broker, The Olear Team at MJ Peterson *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 25, 2021. 

Immune responses can effectively control some human cancers; therapeutically harnessing these responses can fundamentally impact the lives of those who have cancer or are at risk of developing it. Roswell Park is a national leader in the development of immunotherapies offered at only a few select comprehensive cancer centers nationally as well as in contributing to the efforts to diagnose, treat and prevent COVID infections. Instructor: Sharon Evans, PhD, Professor of Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 25, 2021. 

Service to others has been a critical piece of the American national identity since the founding of this country. Whether reflecting on national service through the military, Peace Corps, or AmeriCorps programs or on volunteering with community nonprofits or religious organizations, it's clear that the idea of volunteering is part of our American identity. We'll explore The Great Awakening and the foundation of the first charity organizations in the United States, learn why Tennessee is called the Volunteer State, and examine what the needs are in our community while specifically focusing on the future of volunteering and the substantial impact volunteers age 55+ can make. Instructor: Alex Lauer, Coordinator of Senior Volunteers-Aged, Erie County Department of Senior Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 24, 2021. 

Learn how cow's milk and milk alternatives compare nutritionally and dispel some common myths about traditional dairy products. Instructor: Jenny Ferrentino, MS, RDN, Wegmans nutritionist *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 24, 2021. 

The White House is an enduring symbol of the United States. For over 220 years, it has served U.S. presidents as a home, office, and stage. Learn about the history and roles of the White House and explore how the building has changed over time. Instructor: Courtney Speckmann, Board Trustee, Buffalo Presidential Center; Director of Education, Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 22, 2021. 

This course will serve as an introduction to the science, history and impact of vaccination. Specific vaccines recommended for older adults will also be discussed, including vaccines for influenza, pneumonia and shingles. Finally, this course will address the COVID-19 vaccine(s) available, including safety and efficacy, and any emerging information regarding the vaccine(s). Instructor: Shauna Zorich, Clinical Assistant Professor, University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 22, 2021. 

Exclusive, focused social groups with aberrant or theological ideologies are common throughout history. Why do people join such organizations?

Instructor: Phillips Stevens, PhD, associate professor of Anthropology emeritus, University at Buffalo

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 21, 2021.

It seems like everything is made of plastic nowadays. Learn about the kinds of plastics are really recyclable and the best ways to responsibly reuse or dispose of them. Instructors: Gary Carrel, solid waste recycling specialist; Amy Alduino, recycling coordinator, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Environmental Compliance Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 18, 2021. 

Resiliency is defined as the ability to overcome challenges of all kinds and bounce back stronger, wiser, and more personally powerful. How does this relate to the ability to think critically? Critical thinking is needed to solve problems and overcome challenges. Critical thinking is a disciplined process of actively and skillfully conceptualizing and evaluating information gathered from many sources including observation, experience, reflection, reasoning, or communication. If we close our minds to alternatives, how can we reach common ground and solve problems? Instructor: Marian Deutschman, PhD, professor emerita of communications, Buffalo State College *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 10, 2021. 

In this interactive class, you'll learn how to overcome obstacles by using unique creative problem solving techniques that will help you set goals and keep you accountable. Please have a writing utensil and 2-3 sheets of paper available for this session. Instructor: Rob Kubiak, creative problem-solving strategist *This is a recording of the session that took place on June 18, 2021. 

We'll cover how the location technology we rely on works and how it can fail. Instructor: Lisa Matthies-Wiza, director of geographic information services, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 15, 2021. 

Discover picturesque locations around the world while you learn how to take better travel photos. Instructor: John Harrigan, Ph.D., professor of Communication and Media Arts, SUNY Erie *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 17, 2021. 

For 101 years Crystal Beach Park was a magical place for generations of Western New Yorkers. Return to Crystal Beach Park through a slideshow collection of photographs and postcards from the park's beginning in 1888 to its final year in 1989. Dip your toes in Lake Erie. Scream on the Comet and Giant roller coasters. Shiver in fright in the Laff in the Dark. Ride a painted pony. Walk the wacky halls of the Magic Carpet. Remember the fun one more time. Instructor: Rose Ann Hirsch, Amusement Park Historian, Carousel Restorer *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 16, 2021. 

Transferring property is a familiar estate planning strategy. One of the assets people tend to be eager to transfer in order to pass it on to the next generation is real estate. We will look at the advantages and pitfalls involved in the various strategies for passing a house, cottage or rental property to your heirs. Instructor: Valerie Stanek, Esq., certified financial planner, attorney at law *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 16, 2021. 

Join for a review of the musicians, bands, DJs, and clubs that ushered rock music into the Buffalo area. Instructor: Rick Falkowski, author, founder, Buffalo Music Hall of Fame *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 15, 2021. 

At Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, the focus on Survivorship and Wellness begins at the time of diagnosis and is designed to provide support through patient and family-oriented care before, during and after treatment. As a survivor, or caregiver of a survivor, regular follow-up care is important. Every cancer patient should have a personalized care plan including necessary cancer screenings and healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise and proper nutrition. At Roswell Park, we believe that patients and their caregivers will lead a healthy, active life after cancer, but we recognize that problems can develop as a result of treatment. Therefore, in addition to watching for cancer recurrence, we focus on identifying, preventing, and controlling any late or long-term effects of cancer. Mental and physical health are an essential component of recovery and Quality of Life. Thus, our personalized plans also include a range of complementary medicine approaches such as acupuncture, fertility counseling, massage therapy, mindfulness meditation and yoga to ensure that our patients and their caregivers travel the journey of Survivorship with a wide range of resources at their disposal. Instructors: Mary Reid, MSPH, PhD, Professor of Oncology, Chief and Director, Cancer Screening, Survivorship and Faculty Mentoring, Department of Medicine; Tessa Faye Flores, MD, Medical Director of Cancer Screening and Survivorship, Assistant Professor of Oncology *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 14, 2021. 

Learn about the hidden stories of three pioneering women from WNY and how they will be honored by monuments in the community. Instructor: Karen King, PhD, Commissioner of Public Advocacy; Executive Director, Erie County Commission on the Status of Women *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 11, 2021. 

Jai Alai, Badminton, Cricket, European Handball, Rugby? Where do we start? This class looks at sports from around the globe that you may have heard of, but do not know much about. This class covers the basics of the sports and what equipment you may need to participate! Instructor: Ryan Gadzo, research analyst, Erie County Department of Senior Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 11, 2021. 

Join us for an engaging interview with Richard Derwald AKA Mr. Fitness! You'll learn, you'll laugh, and you'll feel inspired to live life to fullest.

From the identification of mumps as an epidemic by Hippocrates in ancient Greece to social distancing and hand washing promoted during the COVID-19 pandemic, public health has been prevalent in society for thousands of years. Even with its presence in modern day society, it's not uncommon for people to ask the question, "What is public health?" Here you will learn about public health and its roots, including where it came from and what it is now. Instructor: Julia Gruspier, Public Health Educator, Erie County Department of Health *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 8, 2021. 

Power of Attorney is an often discussed, important legal document that can be an essential part of planning for later life. Understanding this document, including its specific powers and limitations, is beneficial if you are thinking about appointing someone as your Power of Attorney or if you have an existing document. In addition, recent legislative changes will soon change the format and structure of the Power of Attorney document. *Information is current as of June 9, 2021. Instructor: Sarah Duval, Esq., Supervising Attorney, Center for Elder Law & Justice *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 9, 2021.

With warmer temperatures and sunnier days ahead, many people are heading outdoors and traveling more. Attendees of this session, will hear tips and tricks to keep in mind while packing a cooler for the beach or a summer concert, dining out, traveling, or taking a hike in a local park. Learn how to continue to enjoy some of your favorite indulgences, while maintaining health and weight goals. Instructor: Mindy Yoder, RDN, CDN, manager, nutrition services, Excelsior Orthopaedics *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 7, 2021.

We'll compare vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based ways of eating for health, disease reversal, and prevention. Instructor: Jennifer Kuhrt, population health manager, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 7, 2021.

Internet-connected mobile devices have created a revolution in how we communicate, shop, and consume information. Fifth-generation (5G) is the next big technological leap. What is 5G, and what does it mean for our always-connected lives? Instructor: Chuck Banas, Erie County, Web Services Technical Liaison *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 3, 2021.

Learn what your first steps in Italian genealogy research should be and how to use popular Italian genealogy websites.

Instructor: Rhonda Hoffman, Genealogy Specialist, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 2, 2021.

Click below for the handouts:

Vital Records Chart

Getting Started Handout

We'll talk about the risk factors, testing, and ways to help prevent developing Type 2 diabetes. You'll leave with nutritional tips and exercise ideas.

Instructor: Darcie Hanson, R.N., clinical coach, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York

*This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 2, 2021.

Click below for the handouts:

Snack Ideas

Building a Balanced Meal

Prediabetes and Diabetes

Choose Your Foods List

Linda Drajem and Christopher Drajem wrote a collaborative memoir spanning almost ten years. It began when Linda was an English teacher in Buffalo and Christopher recently moved to Seattle. He came home for a visit told her and the rest of the family he was gay. In this session, mother and son will share their experiences forging a relationship of mutual support and abiding respect focusing on how writing bridged the inevitable gaps. Sharing letters and emails, the two will discuss the impact of outdated gender roles, stifling religious doctrine, and the importance, above all else, of honesty. Participants will leave with a list of suggestions about how to reinforce connections with those who are most important by building on shared values. Instructors: Linda Drajem, Retired English Teacher and Current Memoirist; Christopher Drajem, writer & educator *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on June 1, 2021.

From it's founding in 1875 through it's ultimate demise in 1967, the Larkin Company used "Factory to Family" marketing to get products directly into the homes of Larkin consumers. You'll learn about the Larkin Company's unique marketing that made the company the second largest mail order catalog company in America, but also was the catalyst for it's closure. Instructor: Shane E. Stephenson, director of Museum Collections, Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park; owner, Archives in the Buff *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.

Learn the science behind composting and the benefits. We'll cover what materials you can compost and how you can get started today either in your own backyard to by taking advantage of some local places that accepting food scraps for composting. Instructors: Gary Carrel, solid waste recycling specialist; Amy Alduino, recycling coordinator, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Environmental Compliance Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 27, 2021.

While there are many activities that enhance the physical function of older adults - implementing strength training and speed of movement should be a priority. Learn a variety of resistance band exercises that help increase strength in the lower extremities. Also, discover an array of speed training activities that help improve function, balance, power, and mobility. If you are missing that "spark" in your step, this is for you! Instructor: Jill Bronsky, Owner, Forward Fitness Inc.; Author *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 25, 2021.

Learn about fats - which are the healthiest and which to limit. We'll share tips for adding healthy fats to your meals without sacrificing taste. Instructor: Jennifer Johnson, health promotion coordinator, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 24, 2021.

Join for a lesson on what Senior Services does and how you can access the programs and services. Instructor: Erie County Department of Senior Services Staff *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 21, 2021.

Join the conversation about the current status of the opioid epidemic in our community and what is being done. After watching this presentation, you will be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, properly administer naloxone, and know the necessary follow-up steps. Dependent upon naloxone availability, participants in Erie County, NY who watch this presentation will be able to receive a kit containing two doses of naloxone at no charge. Participants must be 16 years or older. Text the Narcan line at 716-225-5473. Instructor: Cheryll Moore, Medical Care Administrator, Erie County Department of Health *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 20, 2021.

Get the inside scoop on how to avoid the latest scams, how Medicare fraud affects you, and how the Senior Medicare Patrol can help. Instructor: Beth Nelson, Director, NYS Senior Medicare Patrol *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 19, 2021.

How many Presidents have come to Buffalo either before, during or after their presidency? Who are the Presidents that have had a significant impact on Buffalo? Learn the answer to these and other questions in a presentation that details Buffalo's unique Presidential history. Instructor: Bren T. Price Sr., Retired Educator, Trustee, Buffalo Presidential Center, Master Docent, Explore Buffalo *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 18, 2021.

How do things like Apple Pay, Venmo, and PayPal work? What is the latest about Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies? Join us to find out! Instructor: Adam Goldfarb, ChFC, Financial Advisor, RJFS; chief sustainability officer, Goldfarb Financial Team *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 18, 2021.

We'll cover the signs and symptoms of depression and what treatment can look like. We'll also discuss the risk factors for suicide and where to get help. Instructor: Mark O'Brien, LCSW-R, Commissioner, Erie County Department of Mental Health *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 17, 2021.

Judge Robert Russell, Jr. established the first Veterans Treatment Court in the world in Buffalo, NY. This class will discuss the origin of the Veteran Treatment Court model. How this has evolved into a nation-wide movement with over 600 courts now in existence and over 35,000 veterans who are now in treatment programs instead of being Incarcerated. Instructor: Patrick W. Welch, PhD, Buffalo Veterans Treatment Court, Senior Mentor Justice for Vets, National Faculty *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 13, 2021.

We live in an electrified world that is generally taken for granted except when it is denied in a power outage. The person responsible for electrically transforming the earth's entire civilization has, by and large, been unknown, ignored, or disregarded. This visual and impactful presentation intends to elucidate the forgotten story of Nikola Tesla, the Serbian-born, genius fellow New Yorker. His accomplishments for all humankind and how he transfigured the planet that started in Buffalo, NY, will be explained and illuminated in a compelling, dynamic lecture. Instructor: Francis S Lestingi, PhD, Professor Emeritus of History of Science and Physics, State University of New York College at Buffalo; President & Co-Founder, Buffalo Niagara Nikola Tesla Council, Inc. *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 12, 2021.

This presentation will provide tips for those trying to be mindful of self-care while caring for a loved one struggling with serious illness. Learn about support options and resources available to help yourself while helping others. Instructor: Lynn Riker, Director of Outreach, Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 11, 2021.

What does the conductor of an orchestra actually do? What does it feel like to be right in the middle of the enormous sound of the Buffalo Philharmonic? JoAnn Falletta will tell you what her job-and her life- are like as music director of our BPO. *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 10, 2021.

Learn about the NYS Climate Act, and what Erie County is doing to create its own equity-focused Community Climate Action Plan to support the goals of the Climate Act and reduce our community's carbon footprint. We will also discuss how residents can save money while supporting these goals by participating in community solar projects.

Instructors: Josh Wilson & Tracy Skalski, Erie County Department of Environment and Planning

*This is a recording of the session that took place on May 10, 2021.

Click here to visit the Erie County Climate Action Plan website.

Jump-start your genealogy with this introduction to family history research - major genealogy concepts, types of records used, and the genealogy resources available. Instructor: Rhonda Hoffman, genealogy specialist, Buffalo & Erie County Public Library *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 5, 2021.

We'll focus on changes to benefits older adults commonly qualify for due to the pandemic - including SNAP and HEAP. Instructor: Rachael Vega, Aging and Disability Resource Representative, Erie County Department of Senior Services *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 4, 2021.

Understanding food labels is the key to smart shopping. Learn how to make sense of the food label, read the ingredients, and decipher front-of-package health claims. Instructor: Jennifer Johnson, health promotion coordinator, BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York *This is a recording of the live streaming session that took place on May 3, 2021.