Immunodeficiency Clinic earns NYS Department of Health Award

462 Grider Street * Buffalo * New York * 14215


BUFFALO, NEW YORK; January 30, 2013—The Immunodeficiency Services Department at Erie County Medical Center has won the 2012 New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Award for Excellence in Quality Performance. The award recognizes a clinic that achieves and sustains measurably high quality care. The immunodeficiency clinic received the award for demonstrating sustained improvement for patient retention and viral load suppression, as well as improving linkages to care as shown through its participation in NY Links and the In+ Care Campaign. 

“The award is a result of the combined efforts of the clinic’s physicians, nurses, social workers, pharmacists and others,” emphasized Thomas A. Russo, MD, Professor and Chief of the Infections Disease Department of Medicine, S.U.N.Y. at Buffalo. “It is truly a team award.”
The clinic, staffed in part by division faculty, is the largest and only comprehensive HIV and AIDS care center in Western New York. Physicians in the infectious diseases fellowship train at the facility during ambulatory rotations. 

The award is one of several given by the HIV Quality of Care Program, a statewide initiative for systematically monitoring the quality of HIV medical care and support services. It will be presented March 14th, 2013, in New York City.

To refer to this award announcement on the UB site, log-on to: http://medicine.buffalo.edu/departments/medicine/news-and-events/news/infectious-disease.host.html/content/shared/smbs/news/2013/01/infectious-diseases-hiv-aids-award-227.detail.html

The ECMC Corporation includes an advanced academic medical center (ECMC) with 550 inpatient beds and 136 skilled-nursing-home beds, on- and off-campus health centers, more than 30 outpatient specialty care clinics and a long-term care facility. ECMC is the regional center for trauma, burn care, and rehabilitation and is a major teaching facility for the University at Buffalo. Most ECMC physicians, dentists and pharmacists are dedicated faculty members of the university. More Western New York residents are choosing ECMC for exceptional patient care and patient experiences—the difference between healthcare and true care.

“kNOw bullying!” Program Premieres in Local School Districts

A project of the Museum of disABILITY History

The “kNOw bullying!” program, a project of the Museum of disABILITY History, will be premiering in school districts across WNY as of January 2013 for fourth grade students. The cost of the program will be a minimal $1.00/student.

The “kNOw bullying!” program sponsored by the Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc. will be provided as a supplement to established anti-bullying programs and will help to reinforce the message that students should become “Stand-byers” rather than bystanders in the efforts to reduce bullying incidents in their schools. The program will utilize educational puppetry to provide students with a visual scenario. The puppeteers will also facilitate a discussion with the students regarding the definition of bullying, types of bullying, tools and resources for students to use if they become a victim or witness, and how to become a “Stand-byer”. Information packets will be distributed to teachers as a resource of additional information and assist teachers in reinforcing the message of the “kNOw bullying!” program in their classrooms. Students will also be provided with handouts and resources will be sent home to parents as well.

The anti-bullying initiative must be a collaborative effort between teachers, students, administrators, parents, and members of the community. In order to decrease incidents of bullying both inside and out of school, people need to KNOW and understand what bullying is and what they can do as individuals to participate in changing their own attitudes and engage in the battle against this societal dilemma. For more information about this program contact Brie Kishel, education coordinator, at 716-629-3623 or bkishel@people-inc.org.

People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 12,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. For information call:

Brie Kishel
Education Coordinator
Direct Line: 716.629.3623
Email: bkishel@people-inc.org

Women Who Eat Berries Have Fewer Heart Attacks

18 year study of nearly 100,000 women provides encouraging information

Eating three or more servings of blueberries and strawberries per week may help women reduce their risk of a heart attack by as much as one-third, according to a new study. Blueberries and strawberries contain high levels of naturally occurring compounds called dietary flavonoids, also found in grapes and wine, blackberries, eggplant, and other fruits and vegetables. A specific sub-class of flavonoids, called anthocyanins, may help dilate arteries, counter the buildup of plaque and provide other cardiovascular benefits, according to the study.

“Blueberries and strawberries can easily be incorporated into what women eat every week,” said Eric Rimm, Associate Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology at Harvard. “This simple dietary change could have a significant impact on prevention efforts.”

Blueberries and strawberries were part of this analysis simply because they are the most-eaten berries in the United States. But it’s possible that other foods could produce the same results, researchers said.

Scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health in the U. S. and the University of East Anglia in England conducted a study among 93,600 women ages 25 to 42. The women completed questionnaires about their diet every four years for 18 years.

During the study, 405 heart attacks occurred. Women who ate the most blueberries and strawberries had a 32-percent reduction in their risk of heart attack compared to women who ate the berries once a month or less – even in women who otherwise ate a diet rich in other fruits and vegetables.

The findings were independent of other risk factors, such as age, high blood pressure, family history of heart attack, body mass, exercise, smoking, caffeine or alcohol intake.

U of R Doctor Helps Transform Nation's End-of-Life Care

The Institute of Medicine, a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization with a mission to improve American’s health has selected Dr. Patricia Bomba, of Pittsford to serve on the Institute of Medicine’s Committee on Transforming End-of-Life Care. Bomba is a nationally recognized palliative care and end-of-life expert who designs and oversees the implementation of community projects throughout New York state.

“New York state is ahead of the curve when it comes to ensuring patients’ wishes are honored at the end of life,” Bomba said. “I hope to parlay the successes of New York state into a new national standard that empowers patients, their families and physicians to make and share sound decisions.”

Bomba serves as New York’s representative on the National POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) Paradigm Task Force and chairs New York’s MOLST Statewide Implementation Team. She was the driving force behind a 2008 New York state Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (MOLST) law which helped to ensure that a person’s end-of-life wishes were followed, whether the person was at home, in a nursing home or in any other non-hospital setting.

Dr. Bomba completed her residency in internal medicine at the University of Rochester and is board certified in internal medicine, with added qualifications in geriatric medicine. She currently serves as vice president and medical director, geriatrics, for the insurer Excellus BCBS.

MEMORY CARE & ENHANCED ASSISTED LIVING NOW AVAILABLE AT THE GREENFIELDS CONTINUING CARE COMMUNITY

CONTACT: Lori Hannon at (716) 684-8400 / lhannon@niagaralutheran.org

Senior Living Director,The GreenFields Continuing Care Community

(LANCASTER, NEW YORK) The Niagara Lutheran Health System announces the opening of the newest addition to The GreenFields Continuing Care Community on Broadway in Lancaster, GreenField Terrace, which will add memory care and enhanced assisted living to the list of senior living services provided on the campus. The official dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Saturday, January 12, 2013, with nearly one hundred people in attendance.

GreenField Terrace consists of four separate houses surrounding a beautifully landscaped, enclosed courtyard. In three of the houses, residents with a primary diagnosis of dementia will receive individualized attention 24 hours a day. In the fourth house, people whose needs fall between traditional assisted living and skilled nursing will receive the enhanced assisted living care they need.

In each household, residents will have their own private bedroom and bath and share a common living room, kitchen and dining room. They will be able to decide what time they want to get up, when they want to eat, and what activities they want to do each day – just like home. In addition, everyone in the household will work together to make decisions, like what the weekly menu should be or whether or not to have a pet become part of their household.

Jurgen Arndt, President/CEO of the Niagara Lutheran Health System, which owns and operates The GreenFields, says, “As a mission driven organization, we are pleased to be able to add memory care and enhanced assisted living to the services already provided on our campus so that residents and their families have even more options to choose from when special needs arise. The advantage for residents is that they can stay on campus with their friends nearby, and we make the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.”

GreenField Terrace is part of The GreenFields Continuing Care Community where residents have priority access to all the services provided on campus – residential apartment homes, assisted living apartments, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, outpatient therapy and, now, memory care and enhanced assisted living.

The GreenFields Continuing Care Community is located at 5949-5979 Broadway in Lancaster. GreenField Health & Rehabilitation Center opened its doors in 1998. GreenField Manor and GreenField Court opened in 2001. All are affiliates of the Niagara Lutheran Health System, along with the Niagara Lutheran Home & Rehabilitation Center, which has served the people of Buffalo for 55 years.

Visit www.NiagaraLutheran.org to learn more about our City Campus & The GreenFields Continuing Care Community

The Illuminating “NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens” Returns to the Botanical Gardens for a Three-Week Run in February

Buffalo, NY - NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens powered by National Grid is a unique light show that will make its dazzling return to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens over a three week span starting January 30. This creative show uses innovative lighting, art and entertainment to transform the Gardens’ historic architecture and amazing horticulture collection. Last year, NIGHT LIGHTS attracted over 8,000 people in 12 nights.

At NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens powered by National Grid, visitors walk at their leisure through the Gardens’ that will be transformed with lights, sounds, interactive fun, art and performance. The ever-changing lights and sounds highlight the Gardens’ iconic conservatory and horticulture collection creating a one of a kind atmosphere. This year, new lighting designs, lasers, video projections, enhanced sound systems and a maze on the front lawn are some of the new and exciting features.

Western New York artists and musicians will once again play a vital role in adding to the creativity of the show.  For the duration of NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens powered by National Grid, the electronic sounds of Dotsun Moon will be featured, projection artist Mark Reginald WonderGhost will display photography and the Ashford Hollow Foundation will exhibit art and sculptures throughout the Gardens. On the final evening of the show, Queen City Sight & Sound, a collective of Buffalo artists, will be displaying, creating, and performing art throughout the Gardens.

From strolling musicians, to a fire spinning troupe, drummers and unique rock bands, NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardenspowered by National Grid will have feature performers each night. Some of the performers include Smackdab on February 2, Ben Perrello on February 7, Lazlo Hollyfeld on February 9 and John & Mary on February 15.  Each performance will begin at 8:00 p.m., will be about an hour and is included in admission. Spun Out Fire Productions on February 1 and 14 and Queen City Sight & Sound on February 16 are also include with admission and will perform throughout the evening.

NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens powered by National Grid is sponsored by: National Grid, Local Edge and Buffalo Spree and on Saturdays, the first 100 visitors will receive a FREE National Grid ice scraper.

NIGHT LIGHTS at the Gardens powered by National Grid will take place on Wednesday through Saturday nights January 30 through February 16, 2013. Show hours will be 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and will stay open until 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.  Doors open at 6:00 p.m. each night and admission is $10 for adults, $8 for Garden members, seniors (55+) and students (13+), $5 kids 3-12 and kids under 3 are free. 

Tickets are available at the door and online at www.buffalogardens.com starting January 21. Garden Guest passes, discounts and coupons are not valid during NIGHT LIGHTS.  Cameras and mono pods are welcome every night however,tripods are not permitted. Photographer Night on February 5 form 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. welcomes professional and amateur photographers only and tripods will be permitted on this night only!

The lighting designers are SitlerHQ, LLC and Volt Vision, Inc. who own and operate the successful eco-tourism attraction NIGHT LIGHTS at The Heron in Chautauqua County. NIGHT LIGHTS at The Heron is a one-mile walk in the woods at night through a lighted trail and is considered to be one of North America’s most unique tourism attractions.

For more information visit the Gardens’ website at www.buffalogardens.com.  Partial proceeds benefit The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society, Inc. a not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing appreciation for and knowledge of plant life and its connection to people and cultures through its documented living plant collection, historic conservatory, education, research and exhibits.

Powerful Tools for Caregivers Classes for People Helping Older Relatives or Friends

A six-week educational program designed to provide caregivers the tools needed for taking care of themselves is now registering for locations in Depew, Williamsville, Orchard Park, Getzville, and Hamburg.

Lord of Life, 1025 Borden Rd., Depew - (free respite for the memory impaired offered at this site)
Tues. Feb. 26 – April 2, 2013, 1:00 – 3:30 pm

Park Creek Senior Living, 410 Mill St., Williamsville 14221,  Tues. April 2 – May 7. 2013 1:30 - 4 pm

Orchard Park Sr. Center, 70 Linwood Ave., Orchard Park, Tues. April 9 – May 14, 2013, 1-3:30pm

Weinberg Campus, 2700 N. Forest Road Getzville 14068, (free respite for the memory impaired offered at this site) Wed. May 1 – June 5, 2013 9:30 am – 12 pm

Elderwood at Rosewood, 76 Buffalo St., Hamburg 14075,  Tues. May 21 – June 25, 2013, 6– 8:30 pm

Through six 2 1/2 hour sessions held on a weekly basis, caregivers learn to reduce stress, improve self-confidence, better communicate feelings, and locate helpful resources. Attendees also learn how to increase their ability to make tough decisions and balance their lives. Pre-Registration is required - Call 858-2177 or e-mailcaregiver@erie.gov for more information about Powerful Tools for Caregivers Classes and to register. There is a $25 cost for the course (covered for all Independent Health and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of WNY health insurance members) which includes The Caregiver Helpbook. Additional classes are regularly scheduled and class listing is at www2.erie.gov/seniorservices. For more information or to register, contact: Erie County Department of Senior Services at 858-2177 or e-mail caregiver@erie.gov Powerful Tools for Caregiving Classes are supported by a grant from the Community Health Foundation of Western and Central New York and co-sponsored by The University at Buffalo, School of Public Health and Health Professions and the Erie County Caregiver Coalition.

Contact - Lisa Rood, Erie County Department of Senior Services Caregiver Resource Center
95 Franklin St. - 13th Floor Buffalo, NY 14202 lisa.rood@erie.gov (716) 858-2177 Fax (716)858-6048 or Jennifer Mantione Project Coordinator (Special Events), Erie County Department of Senior Services, 95 Franklin St., Room 1341 Buffalo, NY 14202 P:(716) 858-2117 F:(716) 858-7259
Jennifer.Mantione@erie.gov

Village to Village Network Awards $55, 950 to Villages to Create Sustainable Models to Support Aging in Community

Village to Village Network and MetLife Foundation Help Village Movement Focus on Sustainability

WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 9, 2013) – 12 grassroots “Villages” across the U.S. were awarded $55,950 by the Village to Village Network to support the creation of a sustainable business and organizational infrastructure for their Village organizations. Villages were created through a grassroots movement so that older Americans can age in their community with maximum independence and dignity.  In May 2012, MetLife awarded $250,000 to NCB Capital Impact to continue the expansion of the Village to Village Network (VtV Network) including a second round of Business/Operation Sustainability Grants.

“Capital City Village is thrilled to be among the 2013 recipients of the Village to Village Network grant”, said Beth Jasper, Executive Director for Capital City Village in Austin, Texas, “This funding allows us to reach out to more and more Austin seniors, and to create additional positive impact in the community.”

Villages are self-governing,  membership driven, non-profit organizations run by small staffs and volunteers working together to build welcoming communities, provide social supports, and coordinate affordable services, including transportation, in-home medical care, home repairs and other day-to-day needs for people wishing to remain in their home and communities. In 2010, NCB Capital Impact and Beacon Hill Village launched the VtV Network to provide a national peer-to-peer network to help communities establish and sustain their own Villages.

"We congratulate these Villages on their efforts to develop innovative and sound approaches to aging in place" said Dennis White, President and CEO, MetLife Foundation.   “These sustainability and business strategies will help older Americans maintain a sense of independence and dignity as they remain in their home and communities."    

                           

The 12 Villages will use their grant funds to develop sound business solutions and innovative approaches to sustainability, membership retention and strategic partnership strategies. Additionally, the grantees will share lessons learned and successful models with the VtV Network. The 12 Villages awarded grants include:

Canopy of Neighbors, Buffalo, New York

Lincoln Park Village: Chicago, Illinois

Dupont Circle Village: District of Columbia

East Rock Village: New Haven, Connecticut

Capital City Village: Austin, Texas

Tierrasanta Village of San Diego: San Diego, California

Elderhelp of San Diego: San Diego, California

Glover Park Village: District of Columbia

Neighborhood Falmouth: Falmouth, Massachusetts

North Oakland Village: Oakland, California

Plumas Rural Services: Quincy, California

Westchester Playa Village: Los Angeles, California

Today, there are approximately 94 operating Villages in the U.S., and over 120 communities that are in some stage of developing a Village. Currently, 210 organizations are members of the VtV Network.

About Canopy of Neighbors, Inc.

Canopy of Neighbors was incorporated in 2011 by City of Buffalo residents who wished to remain in their own homes as they aged; and realized that they and their neighbors could actually do just that if they had a little extra help. Canopy of Neighbors recruits and trains volunteers to provide that extra assistance to city residents aged 62+ in the 14209 and 14222 zip codes. A membership in Canopy of Neighbors connects seniors via a phone call to a community-wide network of vetted vendors and volunteers, who provide support in the form of daily living/home services, health assistance services, information, light home and yard services physical activities and social event, and transportation. These approved businesses and individuals are committed to helping community residents over the age of 62 stay independent in their own homes. For more information, visit www.canopyofneighbors.com

About the Village to Village Network

The Village to Village (VtV) Network is being created by Villages for Villages.  The VtV Network helps communities establish and manage their own “Villages.” The Network is sponsored through a joint partnership between Beacon Hill Village and NCB Capital Impact and was developed in response to requests from Villages nationwide. For more information, visit www.vtvnetwork.org.

About MetLife Foundation

Metlife Foundation was established in 1976 to continue MetLife’s longstanding tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. The Foundation’s commitment to building a secure future for individuals and communities worldwide is reflected in its dedication to empowering older adults, preparing young people and building livable communities. Since it was established, MetLife Foundation has provided more than $530 million in grants and $70 million in program-related investments to nonprofit organizations addressing issues that have a positive impact in their communities. For more information visit www.metlife.org 

Quality of Life Classes for Breast Cancer Survivors

www.bcnwny.org 

 3297 Walden Avenue, Depew, New York 14043 716-706-0060

The Breast Cancer Network of Western New York will once again be offering Quality of Life Classes for Breast Cancer Survivors this winter. All classes are free, however there is a suggested $10 registration donation for each class. Note that some classes are during the day and some are in the evening to accommodate those who are working.

CLASS DAY OF WEEK TIME FREQUENCY

Tai Chi, Every Monday 11 am- 12:30 pm

Yoga, Every Monday 6:00-7:00 pm

Knitting, Every Fourth Monday at 1:00pm

Book Club, Every third Tuesday at 2pm

Jewelry Workshop, Tuesday, Noon- 2:00 pm, February 5 & 19,  March 5 & 19,  April 2 & 16

Exercise, Every Wednesday, 6:00-7:00 pm 

Exercise, Every Thursday, 9-10am

Beginning Tai Chi, Thursday 4:30-5:30pm, February 7, 14, 21, & 28

Zumba, Every Thursday, 6-7pm

Watercolor, Thursday 7-9pm, March 7, 14, 21, 28

Yoga, Every Friday  10:30-11:30 am

Brown Bag Lunch, Fridays at noon, Just show up- no registration

TAI CHI - Learn beginning Tai Chi or join on-going class. Experience the gentle flowing movements of Tai Chi and treat your whole body to a gentle and relaxing workout. Say goodbye to sweating, puffing and panting. Say hello to feeling cool, calm, refreshed and energized.

YOGA - A physical, mental, and spiritual discipline. Originating in ancient India whose goal is the attainment of a state of spiritual insight and tranquility. There's mounting evidence that yoga is an effective pain-control intervention and is effective during breast cancer treatment and survivorship in lessening fatigue.

JEWELRY MAKING WORKSHOP - From beginner to more advanced - instructor teaches variety of techniques. All the materials provided. Make beautiful jewelry and go home with a smile!

EXERCISE - Light to moderate exercise designed for breast cancer survivors. Weights and mats provided. Bring your own bottle of water.

WATERCOLOR - No experience necessary. paint, brushes & paper provided. Linda Dugan teaches techniques for watercoloring. Lots of fun and a chance to express yourself and relax.

ZUMBA - Zumba class with our own Myriam Kelley as our instructor. Zumba combines Latin and International music with a fun and effective workout system. Anyone can do Zumba!

No donation suggested for Book Club, Knitting, Wed. Exercise or Brown Bag Lunch

NEWER CLASSES & ACTIVITIES- Beginning Tai Chi - Thursday Afternoon;

Friday Morning Yoga & Friday Activity Brown Bag Lunch w/Discussion - Drinks and Dessert Provided

More information of all classes and registration form can be found at www.bcnwny.org or call Breast Cancer Network of WNY, Mon., Wed. & Fri. 11 AM – 3 PM, at 716-706-0060

ALL CLASSES ARE HELD AT OUR BUILDING
BELLA MOGLIE
Breast Cancer Network of WNY
3297 Walden Avenue, Depew, NY 14043
716-706-0060

BNMC, Inc. Partners with BWI to Offer Wellness Certificate Programs

BUFFALO, N.Y., January 19, 2013 – The BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute announces the addition of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus (BNMC), Inc., as a BWI Health Promotion Affiliate, offering convenient health education certification courses to employees on the Medical Campus at discounted rates.

The BNMC, Inc., is the umbrella organization created in 2001 by institutions located on the Medical Campus in downtown Buffalo. It is a not-for-profit organization that fosters conversation and collaboration among its member institutions, their 12,000 employees and the community. The BNMC, Inc., coordinates activities related to sustainable planning, development and enhancement of its 120-acre space.

As an affiliate, the BNMC, Inc., has access to BWI’s three health promotion-focused courses, delivered through a web-based learning platform or via onsite education in the traditional classroom setting. They include:

· BWI Health Promotion Coordinator Certification: four-hour course provides a foundation for successfully implementing and managing an employee wellness program; ideal for new wellness managers, human resource professionals, benefits sales teams, nurses, and wellness committee members

· BWI Personal Health Certification: 12 interactive, 30-minute online heath education modules; designed specifically to teach individuals about the personal responsibility and behavior changes necessary to leading a healthier life while also providing their employers with knowledge improvement data, gained through pre/post quizzes and a cumulative final exam, to tie in with incentive-based corporate wellness programs.

· BWI "Be Fit Kids" Instructor Certification: four-hour course trains facilitators to lead, implement and instruct students from kindergarten through sixth grade in an outcome-based, results-oriented behavior modification program that empowers children and families to take responsibility for their health; ideal for educators and recreation staff members.

BWI is an “Approved Provider” for continuing education units and recertification credits with the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA). Continuing education units are also available for all courses through Learning Partners, which is an “Approved Provider” with the International Association of Continuing Education and Training (IACET), Board of Certification (BOC) for Athletic Trainers, National Board for the Certification for OTs, and New York State Office of Professions for PTs & PTAs.

“The BNMC, Inc., is pleased to become a partner affiliate with BWI Health Promotions. Supporting healthy worksites and building an overall healthier community are very important to our organization’s goal of creating an innovative environment that provides opportunities for entrepreneurship and active and healthy living,” said Patrick J. Whalen, chief operating officer of the BNMC, Inc.

To learn more about partner opportunities with BWI, including private label, co-branding and up-selling opportunities, contact BWI President and CEO Shawna Dosser at bwihealth@verizon.net, or by calling 1-800-606-7422 or 716-992-2732. Visit www.bwihp.com.

About BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute

The BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute, a subsidiary of BWI Health Promotions, provides comprehensive wellness management services and health education training programs for corporations, schools and communities. The BWI National Health Promotion Training Institute was developed to offer web-based certificate programs for individuals and/or professionals looking to enhance their personal knowledge in the field of health promotion. As a New York state regional health promotion leader, BWI’s presence is expanding into the national business market with program delivery throughout the United States.

What Is Gum (Periodontal) Disease? You May Be Eligible to Participate in a Clinical Trial

Dr. Genco is seeking volunteers who think they may have gum disease for a clinical research study to find out which germs make gum disease worse. Participants will receive care and be compensated for their time and travel. To qualify you must be at least 25 years old, have 20 natural teeth and have not used tobacco products for at least a year. You also cannot have Diabetes. To learn more, call Shannon at 716.829.6306.

Gum (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues that hold the teeth in place. The two forms of gum disease are gingivitis, a mild form that is reversible with good oral hygiene, and periodontitis, a more severe form that can damage the soft tissues and bone that support teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.

In its early stages, gum disease is usually painless, and many people are not aware that they have it. In more advanced cases, gum disease can cause sore gums and pain when chewing.

Dr. Robert Genco, DDS, PhD, of University at Buffalo School of Oral Biology says, "Eighty percent of U.S. adults will experience gum disease in their lifetime, causing inflammation, infection and even bone damage." He adds, "The good news is that gum disease can be prevented, and does not have to be a part of growing older. With thorough brushing and flossing and regular professional cleanings by your dentist, you can reduce your risk of developing gum disease as you age. If you have been treated for gum disease, sticking to a proper oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings can minimize the chances that it will come back."

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease is often caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow dental plaque -- a sticky film of bacteria -- to build up on the teeth. Plaque can harden and form tartar that brushing doesn't remove. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar. Gum disease can range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease. The two forms of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis and Periodontitis

In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen and bleed easily. Gingivitis can usually be reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Gingivitis does not involve loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place. If gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontitis, where gums pull away from the teeth and form spaces (called "pockets") that become infected. The body's immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. Bacterial toxins and the body's natural response to infection start to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If untreated, the bone, gums, and tissue that support the teeth are destroyed, teeth may become loose and may fall out or have to be removed.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Risk factors for developing periodontal disease include smoking, diabetes, medications that reduce flow of saliva, and predisposition due to genetic makeup. Dr. Genco offers the following tips to prevent gum disease:

* Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily.

* Visit your dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning.

* Don't smoke.

* Eat a well-balanced diet

For more information, see "Eating Well As You Get Older" at http://nihseniorhealth.gov/eatingwellasyougetolder/benefitsofeatingwell/01.html.

Source: http://nihseniorhealth.gov/periodontaldisease

shrimp and sweet potato soup

Make an extra batch of this amazing soup to store in the freezer!

(Special to BHL) - As healthy foods go, the sweet potato is hard to beat. Touted as one of the most nutritious vegetables, the bright orange, fiber-packed tubers are rich in vitamins and minerals, and are a great choice for any diet.

And while sweet potatoes are good for everybody, for diabetics they are an even wiser choice. Because they are a low glycemic index (GI) food they release glucose slowly into the bloodstream helping avoid spikes in blood sugar levels — an important factor in managing diabetes.

This recipe is not only healthy, it’s also easy. You’ll be serving a fun, richly flavored soup with a spectrum of color and flavor to match. Claw crabmeat can be substituted for the shrimp

Shrimp and Sweet Potato Soup

Ingredients:

1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, cored and chopped (Note: For more color, add a red or yellow bell pepper.)
1 tsp. minced garlic
4 cups canned vegetable broth or chicken broth
2 cups diced, peeled sweet potatoes (yams)
1 (10 oz.) bag frozen cut green beans
1 (10 oz.) bag fresh spinach
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 (10 oz.) can chopped tomatoes and green chilies
1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Dash hot pepper sauce
Sliced green onions (scallions), optional

Instructions:

Coat a large pot with nonstick cooking spray, and set over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook, stirring, until tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the broth, sweet potatoes, frozen green beans, spinach, shrimp, tomatoes and green chilies, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and hot sauce, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Add the green onions, if desired, and add more broth if soup is too thick. Makes 12 servings.

Nutrition Info:
Per serving: CAL 94 (8% from fat); FAT 1g; SATURATED FAT 0.1 g; PROTEIN 9g; CARB 14g; CHOL 56mg; SODIUM 590mg; FIBER 3 g
Credits:

Courtesy Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission

Athletic Trainer Helps Save Life of Referee During High School Basetball Game

On Friday, January 4, 2013, 54 year-old Jim Martek collapsed on the basketball court at Mt. Mercy Academy from an apparent heart attack, while he was refereeing a varsity game.

As the crowd and players watched, Melissa Hudecki, ATC, an Athletic Trainer with Catholic Health’s AthletiCare Program, performed CPR and used an Automatic Electronic Defibrillator (AED) to revive Martek.

Buffalo firefighters also responded and provided additional emergency response before Martek was taken by ambulance to Mercy Hospital of Buffalo, where he was put into a medically-induced coma throughout the weekend to stabilize his condition. Martek’s heart attack was caused by an arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). On Tuesday, he underwent a procedure to implant a device, similar to a pacemaker, to monitor and correct any future arrhythmias.

Martek, a risk manager for HSBC Mortgage Company, is doing well and expected to be discharged from the hospital today to continue his recovery. Before he leaves, however, he will get a visit from Hudecki, whom he has known for many years through his work as a sports referee. Martek is grateful to Hudecki, the first responders and the medical team at Mercy Hospital for his remarkable recovery. His goal is to attend the basketball game that will need to be rescheduled from last Friday.

Mt. Mercy Academy contracts with AthletiCare for athletic training services for its sports program. As a Certified Athletic Trainer, Hudecki has extensive medical training to manage on-site sports injuries, as well as provide lifesaving emergency care.

VA Western New York Healthcare System Celebrates The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

VA Western New York Healthcare System will celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at a ceremony on Friday, January 18 at noon in Freedom Hall at the Buffalo site, 3495 Bailey Avenue. Veterans, employees and the community gather annually to celebrate his life at this ceremony.

Rev. Benita Keith, Greater Refuge Temple of Christ Church, will provide the keynote address. Violinist Jalilyah Linton and singer Jacob Fabry will perform.

Dr. King believed in a nation of freedom and justice for all, and encouraged all citizens to live up to the purpose and potential of America by applying the principles of nonviolence to make this country a better place to live.

“It is important to commemorate the life of this tremendously important leader,” stated Sharon Shelton,

African American Special Emphasis Employment Manager. “We must continue to provide education about his work for generations to come.” The event is free and open to the public.