50+ Lifestyles, January 2019 Long Island edition

January 2019 Long Island Edition • Vol. 44 #1

50plusNY.com

A

s many a momentus thing occurs, it started with a simple statement four years ago.

My buddy, Capt. Ed Densieski and I were dredging scallops in Peconic Bay one day and took a break for lunch.

“Y’know?” said I — whenever I start a sentence that way, I know I shouldn’t follow it up with whatever thought is speed-bouncing inside my cranium, but nonetheless, I gave utterance — “We should build a sail scalloper and work like the guys did back in the old days. I mean, if they could do it, why can’t we?”

Jump forward a month and I get a phone call from Capt. Ed. “Guess what?” Whenever Capt. Ed calls me

The Saga of

(Continued on page 23)

By Gary P. Joyce

MakingHomeSafe forSeniors

WinFREETickets

PAGE 4,17

PAGE 5

MAKE BATHING SAFE AND EASY AGAIN!

NEVER STEP OVER THAT

Januaryis Glaucoma Awareness Month

PAGE 15

DANGEROUS

TUB AGAIN!

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. The most common place falls in the home occur is in the bathroom. - Report by the National Counsel For Aging

Call NOW! 631-923-6502 Mention This Ad To Receive a $200.00 Special Winter Savings Discount

See our ad on page 4 for pictures and additional information

January Edition Sponsored by

Call 631-647-7622 agentletouchseniorcare.com

January 2019 Long Island Edition • Vol. 44 #1

50plusNY.com

A

s many a momentus thing occurs, it started with a simple statement four years ago.

My buddy, Capt. Ed Densieski and I were dredging scallops in Peconic Bay one day and took a break for lunch.

“Y’know?” said I — whenever I start a sentence that way, I know I shouldn’t follow it up with whatever thought is speed-bouncing inside my cranium, but nonetheless, I gave utterance — “We should build a sail scalloper and work like the guys did back in the old days. I mean, if they could do it, why can’t we?”

Jump forward a month and I get a phone call from Capt. Ed. “Guess what?” Whenever Capt. Ed calls me

The Saga of

(Continued on page 23)

By Gary P. Joyce

MakingHomeSafe forSeniors

WinFREETickets

PAGE 4,17

PAGE 5

MAKE BATHING SAFE AND EASY AGAIN!

NEVER STEP OVER THAT

Januaryis Glaucoma Awareness Month

PAGE 15

DANGEROUS

TUB AGAIN!

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. The most common place falls in the home occur is in the bathroom. - Report by the National Counsel For Aging

Call NOW! 631-923-6502 Mention This Ad To Receive a $200.00 Special Winter Savings Discount

See our ad on page 4 for pictures and additional information

••• Special Heath Message On Curing Obesity •••

H

Is Bariatric Surgery Right For Me?

as sustained weight loss eluded you? Have you wondered if bariatric surgery can help you achieve the results you desire? Then now is the time to call Long Island Laparoscopic DoctorsSM, Long Island premier surgical and non surgical weight loss practice.

Drs. Hesham Atwa, Jon Leung and Charles Thompson III will provide you information you need to decide whether you are ready to take this life-changing step. They can help you determine which weight loss surgery procedure is best for you. We offer a no- obligation insurance check to see if you qualify.

And if surgical weight loss isn’t the best solution for you we specialize in non-surgical medical weight loss programs such as the Obalon and Orbera Gastric Balloon, prescription assisted weight loss and nutritional programs. We even have a program that combines all three for faster, greater, more satisfying weight loss!

At LILD, we have Improve Your Health, Lose the Extra established one of the safest and most comWeight, Look & Feel Better In 2019! prehensive surgical weight loss programs your procedure by our team of docin New York. Our emphasis has been on tors and nutritionists. Schedule a offering treatments that are safe, virtuconsult today or register for our ally pain free and scarless. Our patients next in person seminar offered experience a fast recovery and many are twice a month locally or back to work in days. visit our webImagine being able to eat smaller site to learn portions and not feel hunger. all about us Image the “fire” that drives you to and what we do. See patient eat and snack your way through the day successes just like you. put out!

For further info call 631-228Imagine losing your excess weight 8277, visit us on the web at without heavy www.journeytothenewyou.com exercise. or download our free mobile app Imagine freeing yourself from by searching major app stores for many of the obesity related health conBaritastic and enter code 0696333. ditions like Type 2 diabetes, Acid Reflux, Sleep Apnea and high blood pressure virtually overnight!

Our program is comprehensive and you will receive support before and after

• • • •

2 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

Calendar January 9 Tosca: The Passionate Diva. Sachem Public Library, 2 p.m. Music Librarian and soprano Tanisha Mitchell will perform the famous aria, Vissi d'arte. All welcome. Free. For more information, or to register, call 631-588-5024.

January 10 Senior Group Meeting SAGE. Marc Chagall and His Loves. Woodbury Jewish Center, Woodbury; 10:30 a.m. to noon; $5 includes light refreshments.516-496-9100 x352; www.thewjc.org.

January 12 Dog Jam 2019. An afternoon of music, fun, and good vibes, to benefit Last Hope Animal Shelter of Wantagh. At KJ Farrells, 242 Petit Avenue, Bellmore; 2 to 5 p.m. Info: 516-690-3180. Tix $25 at the door, advance $20 from DogJamLI@aol.com, or go on line: PayPal.me/DogJam2019.

January 15 Dreaming with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Long Island Children's Museum, Garden City.

Ages 5-and up. Use his powerful vision of peace and change as inspiration to create a mosaic masterpiece. 1 and 3 p.m. Price: $3 with museum admission ($2 LICM members). Info: 516224-5800; www.licm.org.

January 17 Camp Wikoff: A Close Look at Montauk’s Recuperative Encampment for SpanishAmerican War Combatants. Rogers Memorial Library, Southampton; 1 p.m. Free. Info at 631-283-0774 x 523; www.myrml.org.

January 17 Bob Nelson. Theatre Three, Pt. Jefferson; 8 p.m.

Watching Bob Nelson is like watching several different types of comedians all rolled into one.

Tix $39. Info 631-928-9100; theatrethree.com.

January 16 Eating Healthy. Superfood Desserts for Your New Year Diet. Copiague OPublic Library, Copiague; 7 to 8:30 p.m. Adding superfoods to your daily diet can dramatically improve your health.

Jolanta Bazyte will discuss superfoods and participants will have a chance to taste super nutritious desserts and leave with healthy superfood recipes. Registration is necessary: 631 691-1111.

January 18 Senior Advocates Assistance. At the Deer Park Library, Deer Park: 9 to 11 a.m. Senior advocates are County representatives who come out into the community and assist seniors with information gathering, completion of eligibility or recertification applications and referrals to ap-

propriate community agencies. For more info or for directions please call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at 631-853-8200. Appointments are encouraged but drop-ins are always welcome.

Jan 18-20 Menopause The Musical. At the Gateway Playhouse, Bellport. Friday, January 18 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, January 19 at 3 and 8 p.m., Sunday, January 20 at 2 p.m. For tix go to gateway.org.

January 25 The Wall Live. NYCB Theater at Westbury; 8 p.m. Dive deep into Pink Floyd’s masterpiece and travel through every song of The Wall with precision. Info: 516-247-5211.

January 12. 2 to 5 p.m.

JanEvents

(Send event info to Frank@50plusny.com. Deadline 15th of the month)

January 28 Goodnight Moon and The Runaway Bunny. At the Landmark Port Washington; 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Goodnight Moon is a celebration of familiar nighttime rituals, while The Runaway Bunny's pretend tale of leaving home evokes reassuring responses from his loving mum. Ages 2 to 6. Tix $22 to $25. Info: 516-7676444; www.landmarkonmainstreet.org January 28 The Deep Sea. At the Sachem Public Library, Holbrook; 7 p.m. With an average depth of two miles, the vast majority of ocean lies in the zone known as the Deep Sea, a perpetually cold and dark region under immense pressure from the weight of the water above. Marianne McNamara, Assistant Professor of Biology and Oceanography at Suffolk Community College, will share fascinating details about this extreme environment and the un-

usual life forms that have evolved to survive within its depths. All are welcome. For more info call 631-588-5024. 50+

SPOTTERS WANTED! Help 50+ Lifestyles by checking the newspaper racks at locations in your neighborhood.

Interested?

E-mail: Frank@50plusny.com or call 631-286-0058, ext. 100.

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 3

LIFE SAVING PRODUCTS • LIFE SAVING PRODUCTS • LIFE SAVING PRODUCTS • LIFE SAVING PRODUCTS

4 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

SAVE!!!

NOW ONLY $9.95 Name: Address: Email:

NEW YEAR SPECIAL HOME DELIVERY SUBSCRIPTION TO 50+ LIFESTYLES Phone:

Thanks to Our Advertisers!

Advertiser

Page

SafeBath LI Walk-in Showers, Grab Bars & Bath Chairs L I Laparoscopic Doctors Bariatric Surgeons Bristol Financial Services StairGlide Stair Lifts & Ramps Salisbury Estates Condominiums Pinewood Estates Rental Community Suffolk Transportation NYCB Theatre at Westbury Theatre Three The Gateway Performing Arts Center Last Hope Pet Adoption Vision World A Gentle Touch Home & Health Care Services Law Office of David R Okrent Long Island Family & Elder Care Schoenbart Low Vision Care Saddle Rock Upscale Apartment Living Finkelstein & Feil Financial Services Lawyers MyNotifi Fall Protection Affordable Cremation Services White Oaks Nursing Home EDP Dental Plan Signalert Asset Management LLC Long Island Audiology, PC Mark J. Snyder Financial Services

1,4 2 3 4 6 8 8 9 10 11 11 12 13 14 14 15 16 16 17 18 18 19 20 22 Back Cover

WIN TICKETS!

SHOW TICKET GIVEAWAY Win two tickets to the NYCB Theatre at Westbury.

E-mail your name and address to: Frank@50plusny.com Please, only one entry per person.

Last month’s winner was Tony Fusaro of Baldwin. ongratulations to our Hidin’ Harry winners from the December issue.

The winners are Jackie Valenti of Amityville and Fred Kuhle of Sayville. Both will be receiving a pair of Theatre Three tickets in the mail.

So … Find Hidin’ Harry somewhere in the pages of 50+ LifeStyles and send us your answer — including your name and address — by post to Hidin’ Harry, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 …or by e-mail to: editor@50plusny.com.

ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON,

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Frank C. Trotta ext. 100 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tim Edwards ext. 111 VICE PRESIDENT SALES & PRODUCTION Marie S. Trotta ext. 113 EDITOR Gary P. Joyce ext. 250 DIRECTOR OF SALES Bruce Safran ext. 108 ART DIRECTOR Gregory A Jones ext. 232 EDITORIAL OFFICE: 146 South Country Road, Suite 4 Bellport, NY 11713 Tel (631) 286-0058 · Fax (631) 286-6866 Advertising Rate Card By Request COPY DEADLINE 15th of previous month ©50+ Lifestyles™

C

MARKET DIRECTLY TO LONG ISLAND & NEW YORK’S 5 BOROUGH’S BABY BOOMERS AND OLDER ADULTS AND WATCH YOUR BUSINESS GROW!

ALL MEDIA PACKAGES INCLUDE: • 100% Color • Larger Ad Sizes • Free Advertorials • eFlip Book Inclusion • Social Media Exposure Packages Starting at $50.00/ MONTH!

www.50plusNY.com

Outstanding L.I. & NY Metro Area 5 Borough Coverage 100,000+ Readership Available At: Stop & Shop • King Kullen • Best Market • Hospitals • Restaurants Health Facilities • Libraries • 55+ Complexes • Senior Centers • High Traffic Locations

For Advertising Information contact Bruce Safran 516-356-7159 • Bruce@50plusny.com 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 5

Winner of 10 National Awards

LifeStyles Sudoku Solution from page 10

LifeStyles Puzzle Solution from page 10

TECH TALK

Slow Computers: When is It Time for a New One?

Q

uestion: My computer is running slower and slower it seems and I’m not sure if it’s worth upgrading. Is there any hope for this old machine?

I get this question a lot. I usually tell my customers that if you’ve owned the machine for seven years or more, then you have used the effective life of the machine. If the computer is older than seven years and it’s running slow or locking up, it’s not really worth the money to try to save it. It’s time to move on to a new or newer computer.

If your machine is newer than seven years old, then this is where the answer gets tricky. Most new computers that are running slower are suffering from some form of malware on them. The malware landscape has changed quite a bit over the years. Malware started out as viruses and has grown into a grey area where it’s not as malicious as a virus, but it’s not exactly harmless.

Most malware is installed on your machine by an outside source and is aimed at directing your computer to some location on the internet to financially benefit the malware’s creator.

If your computer is running slow, the first place to start is to scan the machine with several malware scanning tools. I usually recommend

starting with the free version of Anti Malware Bytes. This is the first scan tool I normally use on a machine just to get an idea of how badly infected the machine is. From there, I normally move on to other scan tools that go deeper and search for more obscure malware.

In my findings, malware is the culprit 80 percent of the time. The other 20 percent of the time, it’s hardware related. A computer has many parts to it and any one of those parts can cause a severe slowdown. If your hard drive is starting to die, then you’ll notice your machine running slower and slower and, if you’re able to check it, you’ll notice that the CPU is barely being used.

If you find yourself in this boat, then there is some good news. With the introduction of the Solid State Drive (SSD) — a new kind of hard drive — you can replace that faulty hard drive with new technology that’s 10 times faster than the hard drive your machine originally came with.

This upgrade can sometime make your machine faster than what it was when it was brand new. I usually recommend an SSD upgrade for machines with failing drives and are five years old or newer. This upgrade is very beneficial to the older Mac line of computers.

6 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

with Mark Rinaudo

Other factors that dictate whether the machine is worth upgrading (instead of trashing) is the Operating System (for example, which version of Windows or Mac OS you have installed). Your machine may be running an Operating System that’s no longer supported with security updates, or is about to no longer be supported.

With these guides in mind hopefully you’ll be better informed to make a decision on whether to invest your money into an aging machine that may just have another two or three years of life in it, or if it’s time to start shopping for your next computer.

Mark Rinaudo has worked in IT in Shreveport for more than 20 years. He is the owner and operator of Preferred Data Solutions. E-mail: mark@preferreddatasolutions.com to submit a question for this column.50+

A Field of Dreams, Senior Style Softball League Raises Money for St. Jude’s

T

he feel of a smooth softball in their hands; the smell of newly-mown grass; looking out onto the diamond-shaped field while standing at home plate — these things are enough to make the members of The Long Island Senior Softball Association feel decades younger.

But what made it all the more special this fall was their participation once again in the third annual Seniors for St. Jude’s Softball Tournament, held at Cantiague Park in Hicksville.

The players, all over the age of 60 and members of the Boys of Summer and the Long Island Senior Softball Association, really hit it out of the park this year in the double elimination tournament by raising more than $13,000 for the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, far surpassing their initial goal of $10,000 for this year.

According to manager and fundraiser committee member Bob Simmons, the money was raised mostly from the ballplayers themselves, along with donations from businesses..

The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to help find cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases. Con-

By Mary Malloy sistent with the vision of its founder Danny Thomas, who founded the hospital in 1962, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay.

“Everyone who played wanted to win, but we were all there for the same reason,”said Simmons. “We had some great camaraderie going, and it was a positive experience all around.” Simmons alos wanted to thank everyone involved.

“Whether they played, heped out, or it was an outside donation, we were very grateful.”

“I started this three years ago in honor of my sister, Rose Auletta, who died 20 years ago,” said Vinnie Troiano, the founding member of the Annual Seniors for St. Jude’s Softball Tournament.

“She was friends with Danny Thomas, and she was my best friend.”

A League of Their Own The Boys of Summer and The Long Island Senior Softball Association (LISSA) boast members who are over the age of 60, with more than 20 teams throughout Nassau and Suffolk coun-

ties. Many of the members play year round, outdoors from April to November, and then indoors at the Long Island Sports Complex in Freeport.

“We wanted an open game,” said Simmons.

“Whoever shows up can play. In other words, we leveled the playing field.”

John Farrell, 73, of Franklin Square, had recently pulled a hamstring and was sidelined for a while, said that he’s been playing with the Boys of Summer since 2002. “I was retired, I needed something to do,” he said. “In the field, you forget everything else once you smell the grass and feel the ball in your hand. We love it!”

Manager Joe O’Shea agreed. “When you drive down to the park, you already start to feel young again. Your brain keeps you going.”

Outfielder Andy Musumeci, 88, of North Bellmore, a father of four children and grandfather of seven, was widowed in February when he lost his wife, Lilian, of 65 years. “We have a good time all year round,” he said of the league. “I feel like I’m in heaven when I’m in the outfield. I’ve made a lot of friends, and some come and go.

Three years ago I fell and tore my rotator cuff and they couldn’t operate …so I strengthened my muscles myself with my own regimen, and I’ve come back strong. This fundraiser brings everyone together and gives us a purpose.”

Roy Hughes, 84, of Massapequa, is a Screen Actors Guild actor who plays on the 80-and-over travel softball team. Still sporting his cinematic good looks, he’s had roles on TV’s Law & Order, among other acting parts. He’s traveled around the world, and retired in the 1980s. “I play softball for the friendship, and I try my best in the outfield,” he said. “This fundraiser is where everyone is on the same team, so to speak, as far as these St. Jude’s kids go.” 50+ For more information about the Senior Softball league, call Vinnie Troiano at (516) 859-5146.

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 7

VeteransNews

✭✭✭✭✭✭✭✭

Donnelly Honors Local Resident Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly honored Patrick Brady of Huntington Station at the Suffolk County Legislature General Meeting in Hauppauge on November 20 for his role in saving a man who was drowning in Huntington Harbor this summer.

Brady, a 2016 graduate of Walt Whitman High School, was working with Chas Forte, 16, of Huntington, on a town pumpout boat when they were alerted by the man’s family that he needed assistance. The two transferred the victim, who had swallowed salt water and was in distress, to their boat and took him to the town dock in Halesite, where an ambulance was waiting. Forte was honored by Legislator William “Doc” Spencer at the same meeting.

“Thanks to the quick action of these two young men, a life was saved,” Legislator Donnelly said. Brady is a member of the Huntington Manor Fire Department and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve stationed at Floyd Bennet Field in Brooklyn. He is taking EMT classes at Suffolk County Community College.

“The ability of these two young men to remain calm and take all the right actions prevented a drowning tragedy from occurring,” Legislator

8 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

Donnelly said. “They are serving their community with distinction and have already demonstrated themselves to be leaders.”

(Pictured): Suffolk Legislator Tom Donnelly with Huntington Station hero Patrick Brady and his parents, Jonna and Chuck Brady.

Sully Introduced to Legislature Suffolk County Legislator Susan A. Berland (D-Dix Hills), Chairwoman of the Legislature’s Veterans Committee, welcomed America’s VetDogs and Paws of War to present before the Committee this June where Sully, President George H.W. Bush’s service dog, had his auspicious public debut shortly before he was placed with the President.

“As we remember and honor the lifelong service of President George H.W. Bush, let us also recall the impact of his service (From left): Legislator Robert Trotta, Legislator animal, Sully,” said Monica R. Martinez, Legislator Sarah S. Anker, Legislator Berland. From America’s VetDogs Valerie Cramer and Sully, “Service animals Legislator Susan A. Berland, From Paws of War who are matched Robert Misseri, Joe and Riley, Legislator Leslie with our veterans Kennedy and Legislator Steven J. Flotteron. provide invaluable comfort and support. We were proud to host Sully at the Veterans Committee to highlight the work of America’s VetDogs and Paws Of War before he left to serve our former president.” 50+

W

DoctorRecommended New Year’s Resolutions

ith the new year upon us, you may be looking for resolutions that will help to keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy in the year ahead.

“This is the perfect time of year to consider your personal goals, and how you can make positive health choices in the coming year,” says American Medical Association (AMA) President Barbara L. McAneny, MD. “Small lifestyle changes today can have a lasting effect in improving your health.”

To help you start the year off on the right foot, Dr. McAneny and the experts at the AMA are offering 10 recommendations to help you determine where you can make the most impactful, long-lasting improvements to your health.

1. Learn your risk for type 2 diabetes by taking the self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org. Steps you take now can help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

2. Be more physically active. Adults should do at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorousintensity activity.

3. Know your blood pressure numbers. Visit LowerYourHBP.org to better understand your numbers and take necessary steps to get your high blood pressure -- also known as hypertension — under control.

Doing so will reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.

4. Reduce your intake of processed foods, especially those with added sodium and sugar. Also reduce your consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and drink more water instead.

5. If your health care professional determines that you need antibiotics, take them exactly as prescribed. Antibiotic resistance is a serious public health problem and antibiotics will not make you feel better if you have a virus, such as a cold or flu.

6. If consuming alcohol, do so in moderation as defined by the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans — up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

7. Talk with your doctor about tobacco and nicotine use and quit.

Declare your home and car smoke-free to eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke.

8. Pain medication is personal. If you are taking prescription opioids, follow your doctor’s instructions, store them safely to prevent diversion or misuse, and properly dispose of any leftover medication.

9. Make sure your family is up-to-date on their vaccines, including the annual influenza vaccine for everyone age six months or older.

10. Manage stress. A good diet and daily exercise are key ingredients to maintaining and improving your mental health, but don’t hesitate to ask for help from a friend or mental health professional.

The lifestyle choices you make now will have long-lasting impacts.

So, this new year, prioritize your long-term health by forming great habits. 50+ — StatePoint

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 9

CROSSWORDS

(Solution on page 4)

(Solution on page 4)

10 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

Across 1. Mutt 4. It often big 7. I Spy actor’s nickname 10. Gaelic language 11. You can pitch it 12. Juan’s hooray 14. Pekoe and green 15. It’s a taxing month (abbr) 16. Hangs with Stitch 17. Pretty heavy or big 19. Teaches 21. Flightless bird 23. A continent (abbr) 24. Matryoshkas are this 28. Abrade 31. Locally it’s red-tailed 32. A Sinatra wife

33. Defunct news agency 34. Seldom asked of a lady 35. Both the GOP and Democrats field them 37. Possesses 38. A buoy or a sister 39. Spotted lucky flyer 43. South African region 47. It goes with born 48. Oft confused with Nobel’s invention 50. Ogle agog 51. Delphic sister?

52. USO’s Martha 53. You should have this strategy 54. Relaxed Belgian town?

55. Dined 56. Coastal inlet

Down 1. Canadian Indian 2. Many planes have this on them (abbr) 3. Once you’ve played with 24 Across you do this 4. Many planes had this on them (abbr) 5. Sorry ‘bout that 6. Ceramic material 7. License eye stat 8. A mixture 9. Goes with buy 10. Ordinal suffix 13. Help initially 18. You can do ‘it up’ 20. A type of 7 Down 22. Sanskrit sex book 24. --- Na Na

25. Can be a type of sale 26. You’re in this when you 50 Across 27. Storage area 28. Rodent 29. Utilize 30. An anthropologist has one (abbr) 33. A small bird 35. See 44 Down 36. Demand payment 39. Weight abbreviation 40. God of war 41. The Challenger ____ 42. Annoying insect 44. See 35 down 45. Capital of Samoa 46. Allow 49. A shirt or a shape

33rd Annual Women’s Recognition Nominees Sought he Town of Brookhaven Division of Women’s Services is seeking nominations for outstanding women of Brookhaven. This year will celebrate the 33rd Annual Women’s Recognition during Women’s History Month with a celebration to be held in March 2019 Women’s Services is asking community groups, businesses and individuals to nominate women they believe are deserving of special recognition for their efforts. The nominee MUST live or work in Brookhaven.

Categories are: Arts, Business, Communication/Media, Community Services Professional, Community Service Volunteer, Education, Government, Health Car Provider, Law Enforcement/First Responders, Legal Profession, Medicine, Military, Religion, Science and Sports. Deadline for entries is January 18, 2019!

Nominations must contain a resume or equivalent; two (2) letters of recommendation to be submitted by nominee’s supervisors, colleagues or by those they serve (non-family members); Demonstration of a positive impact in their community and going above and beyond in their role.

Nomination forms can be obtained and submitted at the Town of Brookhaven Division of Women’s Services, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville, NY 11738 or on line at BrookhavenNY.gov/WomensRecognition. For further information call Sharon Boyd at 631-4516146 or e-mail: Sboyd@brookhavenny.gov. 50+

T

Looking To Add a Dog or Cat to Your Family?

Your New Best Friend is Waiting!

TE FOSTER DONA

PT

HELP

ADO

Call Us Today!

Visit Our Wantagh Adoption Center 3300 Beltagh Avenue, Wantagh, NY 11793

516-783-0030 www.lasthopeanimalrescue.org • Open Daily: 10am to 7pm

Around The Towns...

Send your news items to Frank@50plusny.com 1

3

2

1. Suffolk County Legislator Tom Muratore with Greg Sheridan of Full Throttle Magazine. Each year, they collect new, unwrapped toys to distribute as Christmas gifts for patients at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital.

2. (Left to right): RSVP Executive Director Pegi Orsino, Town of Southampton Senior Services Director Liz Dwyer, Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker, Office for the Aging Director Holly Rhodes-Teague, Office for the Aging HEAP Coordinator Rich Spera, Office for the Aging Principal Accountant Joanne Kandell, Town of East Hampton Senior Services Director Diane Patrizio at a public hearing for the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at the Town of Southampton Senior Center in Hampton Bays.

3. Patricia ‘Pat’ Luneta of the Church of St. Margaret of Scotland in Selden — and former director of the Suffolk Office of the Aging — was presented with the St. Agnes Medal honoring members of the church’s lay faithful in each of the diocese’s 133 parishes who generously donate their time and talent to ministries and activities for the overall good of their worship communities. 50+

12 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

B

The Long Island Authors Group

ook lovers, writers and readers, there’s something to celebrate and it’s here!

What a great idea, a “Traveling Bookstore,” sponsored by The Long Island Authors Group (LIAG). It’s making its way from Nassau to Suffolk counties, and even into Brooklyn, with books and authors in tow.

The book store can be found at fairs and other events by looking for a white tent with the LIAG logo. Under the tent, book shelves display the works of the group’s authors. Genres from children’s picture books to dystopian novels, and everything in between are represented.

Long Island is the home of some very talented people, many of them seniors. Long Islanders take great pride in their home and take advantage of LIAG authors’ talent, readily accessible for books, information and conversation.

What is the LIAG? President Roland Allnach is happy to tell visitors to the Traveling Bookstore what LIAG has to offer in addition to the books, such as lectures, library events and fairs. The fairs LIAG has done this year include: Eisenhower Park Art and Craft Festival, Northport Craft, Bethpage Street Fair, Port Washington Harbor Fest, Hallockville Museum Country Craft Fair, the prestigious

Brooklyn Book Festival, and Sea Cliff Mini-Mart At each fair three to four member-authors do signings and freely talk about their journey through writing, publishing and marketing.

LIAG was founded in 2008 and currently has more than 65 members. But now that the secret is out, after being given an additional boost by the Newsday Act II article of July 8, membership is increasing. Applicant’s work is vetted for its professionalism before being accepted for membership.

The group gives an award annually to a high school senior showing talent in writing. LIAG meets on the first Wednesday of each month where members can socialize and gain information from a guest speaker about issues important to writers. Their mission includes supporting writers and reaching out to the community with informative and engaging programs and events. Most recently they were guests at the New York Library Trustees Conference held in Uniondale.

LIAG authors appear on Cablevision Channel 20 on Fridays at 3 p.m., on The Writer’s Dream, and can be seen on YouTube. You can also access them by visiting LIAG at: longislandauthorsgroup.org; or checkout the LIAG’s Facebook page. 50+

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 13

Traveling With Pets?

What to Know...

destination. Check airline policies, as well as hotel and campsite restrictions and accommodations. Travel across state or international borders requires a health certificate. Some locations require more information and documentation.

D

o your upcoming travel plans include pets? Whether you’re flying to an exciting destination or hitting the road, these suggestions can make the journey easier for animals and humans alike.

• Prep your pet: Traveling can prove stressful to animals, so don’t catch your pet off-guard.

Before leaving town, practice taking short rides in the car or spending time in a carrier. This will help your pet get used to the experience. If you haven’t already microchipped your pet, this may be a good opportunity to do so. This is also the time to ensure your pet’s collar is up-to-date with your current contact information.

• Pack right: Pack plenty of food and fresh water and a sufficient supply of any medications your pet is taking, as getting refills away from home could be difficult. To alleviate anxiety, bring along pet blankets and toys as reminders of home. Also pack a pet-specific first aid kit, which should include non-stick bandages, adhesive bandages, towels, gauze and your veterinarian’s phone number.

• Follow rules: Do your research to ensure you’re following rules along the way and at your

Give yourself plenty of time to handle these details. Your veterinarian can be a good resource in learning what to expect. To that end, a checkup is also a good idea before a trip, as vaccinations or preventive medications may be needed before traveling.

• Safety first: While seatbelts alone can keep a dog from moving about the cabin of the

14 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

car, they are not your safest option. To help protect pets in a crash, anchor a crate using a seatbelt or other secure means. When flying, opt to keep your pet in the cabin of the plane if possible. Temperatures and air quality in cargo can put a strain on pets. If your animal is too large to fly in the cabin, speak to your veterinarian about what you can do to keep your pet safe and relaxed in-flight.

• Prepare for anything: Even the best laid plans can hit snags. Be prepared for the possibility that your pet will become accidentally injured or develop an unexpected illness while traveling, prompting an unplanned trip to the vet. To prepare, consider solutions like the CareCredit credit card, issued by Synchrony Bank, which features special financing options (subject to credit approval) that can allow you to focus on getting your pet better while making monthly payments. More than 200,000 health care providers and health-focused retailers, including over 20,000 veterinarians accept the CareCredit credit card nationwide, which also sponsored the distribution of the tips in this article. Go to www.carecredit.com for pet healthcare providers closest to your vacation destination.

Advance planning is key when traveling with a pet. With a little care, you can make your travels with furry friends safe, fun and memorable. 50+ — StatePoint

Glaucoma May Be Stealing Your Sight

G

laucoma – often called “the sneak thief of sight” because it can strike without symptoms – is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States.

Approximately 2.2 million Americans age 40 and older have glaucoma, according to National Glaucoma Research and as many as 120,000 are blind because of the disease. The number of Americans with glaucoma is estimated to increase to 3.3 million by the year 2020, as baby boomers age. While anyone can get glaucoma some people are at higher risk than others. They include: • African-Americans over age 40 • Anyone age 60 and older, especially Hispanics • People with a family history of glaucoma According to a recent study by the American Optometric Association 91 percent of Americans incorrectly believe glaucoma is preventable. Although glaucoma is not preventable, The Amer-

ican Optometric Association’s says if diagnosed and treated early, the disease can be controlled with eye drops, medicines, laser treatment or surgery.

January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month and a good time to become educated on the disease. The best way to do that is having a recent eye exam that includes thorough screening for Glaucoma.

“As glaucoma progresses, you may eventually notice your side vision failing,” said Dr. Steven Schoenbart, well known Long Island optometrist.

“Without treatment, glaucoma slowly steals your peripheral vision, making it seem as though you are looking through a tunnel. This can’t be recovered, so you need to have it detected early — and treated.”

Improving Senior Vision Is Our Mission! Dr. Steven Schoenbart, Founder and Clinical Director of Schoenbart Vision Care and Low Vision of NY, serving patients from Manhattan to Montauk can help. Using special prescription optics and miniature mounted telescopic glasses, he has helped patients improve their ability to read, watch TV and in some cases continue to drive.

Dr. Schoenbart would like to do the same for you.

To schedule a FREE low vision phone consultation with Dr. Schoenbart or make an appointment for a low vision exam call 516-219-8690 or visit LowVisionofNY.com

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 15

Alzheimer’s Foundation Announces

“Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness”

T

school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and entering a four-year accredited college or university within 12 months of the application deadline are welcome to enter the contest. Students already attending college are not eligible to participate.

Scholarship Essay Comp

he Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is inviting collegebound high school seniors across the country to enter its 2019 Teens for Alzheimer’s Awareness Scholarship Essay Contest for the chance to earn money for college. The annual program has awarded more than $250,000 in college scholarships since its inception.

The essay competition asks high school seniors to describe how Alzheimer’s has affected their lives, as well as share how they plan to make a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease in the future. The deadline to submit essays is February 15, 2019.

“The next generation of leaders in the fight against Alzheimer’s is already hard at work. Throughout the country, children serve as family caregivers to a loved one with Alzheimer’s, volunteer to help others living with the disease and get involved in raising awareness,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s President and CEO. “Every teen who openly shares their experiences with Alzheimer’s helps to educate others and inspire them to make a difference. We invite high school seniors to enter the contest and tell their stories.”

To participate in the competition, applicants must submit an essay (1,500 words maximum) that describes how Alzheimer’s disease has impacted their lives and what they have learned about themselves, their family and/or their community in the face of coping with the illness. High

16 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

The grand prize winner will receive a $5,000 college scholarship. Prizes will also be awarded for first-runner-up ($2,500), second-runner-up ($1,500), third runner-up ($1,000), fourth runner-up ($750) and honorable mention ($500). AFA awarded $30,000 in scholarships to 30 different students through last year’s program.

Students can learn more about the contest and submit their essays by visiting www.alzfdn.org and clicking on the “Teen Scholarship Essay Contest” tab in the top menu. Those with questions can call AFA at 866-2328484.50+

A MyNotifi Memo: Getting Help When You’ve Fallen, and When You Haven’t

T

here are many choices for wearable devices seniors can use to summon help, but they’re not all created equal.

Seniors can be reluctant to push the button on medical alert pendants, even when they know they need help, when it means alerting 911–a situation that feels out of their control.

They’re far more likely, however, to use devices that alert family or friends instead.

Ed is a case in point. He isn’t the type of person to ask for help. His wife convinced him to get a MyNotifi fall-detection device, which clips to his belt. He wears it more for her peace of mind than for his own.

It came in handy recently. Ed fell asleep on his recliner one day while using a heating pad on his back. His wife was gone for the afternoon.

When he woke up, the heat was unbearable.

He didn’t know it then, but he had second-de-

gree burns. He couldn’t get out of his chair to reach the phone, but fortunately he was wearing his MyNotifi. He tapped the device and his wife got the alert. She and their daughter took him to

urgent care. Although he learned later that his situation was serious, Ed told us that he wouldn’t have been so quick to ask for help if the call had gone to emergency services rather than to his family.

MyNotifi is an automatic fall detection device. It clips to your waistband, or is worn on your wrist. It connects to a free smartphone app, so it goes wherever you go. When a fall is detected, it automatically notifies a list of selected loved ones. But MyNotifi does more than that. Use MyNotifi to summon help any time, even if you haven’t fallen, by simply tapping it.

There are no monthly fees, no contract, and no call centers.

Get your exclusive and limited time $10 discount today, using code: 50LIFESTYLES10 www.mynotifi.com info@mynotifi.com

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 17

Local Law Extending Renewal Application Deadline for Senior Exemptions Signed

N

assau County Executive Laura Curran, joined by Nassau County Assessor David Moog, Deputy County Executive for Health and Human Services Kyle Rose-Louder and Deputy Commissioner for the Office of the Aging Jorge Martinez, signed a new local law authorizing Nassau County Assessor David Moog and the Department of Assessment (DOA) to extend the deadline for filing a senior tax exemption renewal application upon a showing of good cause.

“This local law helps protect our senior citizens by authorizing the County Assessor to extend the time for filing a senior tax exemption renewal application for individuals with extenuating circumstances,” said Curran. “We are here to provide answers and want to give our senior residents every opportunity to utilize this exemption.”

Every year 11,000 senior tax exemptions are filed with the Department of Assessment including 9,000 renewals and 2,000 new applications.

The law will allow the County Assessor to extend the deadline for filing an application from the taxable status date, January 2nd each year, until the last day for paying taxes without incurring any interest or penalty. The last day for payments without interest or penalty is November 10th of

the following year for school taxes.

“I am pleased to have been a part of passing the extension to file for senior tax exemptions, which assists the most vulnerable and deserving citizens of Nassau County,” said Presiding Officer Richard J. Nicolello.

“Life events can sometimes make it impossible — through no fault of their own — for senior citizens to meet the deadline to apply for important tax exemptions. Today’s action gives Nassau County seniors a second window for securing the relief they are entitled to,” said Minority Leader Kevan M. Abrahams.

“I welcome any measure that we can take to ease the burden on our seniors,” said Legislator

18 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

Arnold W. Drucker. “I commend County Executive Curran for her leadership on this important initiative and look forward to collaborating with her in the future on additional policies that will benefit Nassau County seniors.”

Qualifying taxpayers need to file a written request with the DOA including why the deadline was missed, any relevant facts and circumstances, and the completed application. The DOA will review individual requests and applications for good cause and determine exemption eligibility.

To qualify for a senior tax exemption a resident must have an income below $38,000, which the Department of Assessment will verify.

Residents must file annually to continue receiving the senior tax exemption. Applications are available at the Department of Assessment, located at 240 Old Country Road in Mineola, or online at www.nassaucountyny.gov/3575/Exemption-Forms.

“Our Office of the Aging staff is available to help residents navigate the form and answer any questions,” said Curran. “And while our staff cannot fill the forms out for residents, we can make referrals to a variety of nonprofit organizations with resources available to assist.”

For more information on the Nassau County Office of the Aging please visit: www.nassaucountyny.gov/1438/Aging. 50+

Are You Avoiding The Dentist For Fear Of The Cost?

I

f you don’t have dental coverage or feel insurance is too restrictive and costly there is another option: the EDP Dental plan. Fortunately, there is an alternative to traditional dental insurance in the growing numbers of available dental plans that offer many advantages in convenience, savings, & procedures from top notch dentists. It is a great individual option and the industry is booming. Dentists and dental plan providers cooperate to make affordable dental care available to you and for more than 15 years EDP has helped thousands of Long Islanders get the dental care they need at an affordable price.

Whether your kids need braces, you need a root canal, or if you just need your regularly scheduled checkup and cleaning, a family dental plan will save you money every time you go to the dentist. Typically, members will find their bills reduced by half and in some cases even more. At EDP Dental it is not uncommon for members to report an average savings for a family of four in excess of $1500 a year or MORE! With some of Long Island’s best dental care providers in their network, EDP members are saving up to 60% off the cost of their dental care every day! The dentists that accept EDP are the same providers that take the big insurance company plans.

However with EDP they can work directly with the patient for the best possible treatment at a reasonable cost. Best of all the discounts are applied to the patient right at the time of service, what’s easier than that?

For only $99 a year you can have peace of mind that you have the best dental savings plan available when you need it and when you don’t. EDP will keep you smiling with our cost savings program that puts you in control of your dental care and money back in your pocket!

Many people wonder how discount dental plans work. How can they be so cheap but still offer such significant savings? Almost everyone understands how traditional dental insurance works. But, this is not dental insurance. This is how we explain it at EDP Dental: Gain Access to In-Network Dentists - Save on every visit with a dentist in our plan’s nationwide network. Dentists within our provider network have agreed to provide the same quality care for the discounted rates listed in the fee schedules. Discounts are exclusively accessible to discount dental plan members.

Save Money with Fixed Prices - No matter what your dentist would

normally charge for a procedure, with a discount plan, you pay the dollar amount listed in the fee schedule.

Everyone Wins! - Dentists get more patients and keep their dental practice running and agree to the reduced fee schedule in return.With EDP, dental coverage also includes specialists, such as, oral surgeons, orthodontists, periodontists, endodontists, and prosthodontists. These visits are charged at a 25-percent reduction of participating specialist’s regular fees. Our user friendly website www.edpdental.com has been designed to help you locate a dentist, compare pricing and easily enroll online If you have questions and would like to speak with one of our customer care representatives you can reach us at 1.800.929. 7881.

1/30/19.

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 19

Don’t Fall for These Common Scams NYS Tax Department Shares Security Tips During National Tax Security Awareness Week

T

o help taxpayers avoid being scammed, the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today highlighted some common tactics used by identity thieves and cybercriminals.

The strategies to steal sensitive personal data range from the simple to the complex, as described in the examples below.

Threatening calls: Scam artists who use this tactic try to bully or trick victims into disclosing private information, or convince them to wire money to pay a tax debt or fine. If a caller, perhaps posing as a New York State Tax Department or IRS agent, threatens an arrest or fines, it’s a scam.

Neither agency threatens taxpayers, and they notify taxpayers by letter first before making any calls or sending any emails.

Unusual emails: Phishing emails often contain links that can activate malware or lead to phony websites that request personal information.

Misspellings or unfamiliar logos in the email or subject line are obvious clues that it’s a scam attempt, but some of the bogus emails and websites are convincing. Hovering over the links may reveal an unusual webpage address (URL) that confirms the sender’s true intent. To be safe, simply delete these emails and any that are unsolicited, and never click the links within them. Remember, the Tax Department never requests personal or financial information by email.

Offers to collect tax payment in person: If a caller claiming to be from the Tax Department or IRS offers to meet you at a specified location

20 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

to collect a payment, it’s a scam. This is never an option with the IRS or Tax Department. End the call immediately.

Request for a specific type of payment: If you’re being told to pay through a prepaid debit card or an iTunes gift card, this is a tell-tale sign of a scam. The Tax Department and IRS provide various payment options, but the use of gift cards isn’t one of them. 50+

Age of Elegance Welcome 2019...

We're Ready for You! Marleen Schuss

N

Joan Allen

ew Contestants, new showcases, new projects and a new pageant are all coming and our quest for contestants has begun. The search is on for that special woman who agrees with the Ms. Senior America philosophy that, “Seniors are the foundation of America and our most valuable treasure. It is upon their knowledge, experience and resources that the younger generation has the opportunity to build a better society.”

Before we head into 2019, we wish to pay tribute to 2018, a winning year for New York Senior America. Our reigning Queen, Maureen Griffin-Damone, made an impressive showing at the National Pageant in Atlantic City. As always, the Seasoned Steppers lit up the stage. We are filled with gratitude to all the Cameo members for their commitment to our wonderful organization.

A highlight of every December is our Holiday Gala which was held on December 7 at the lovely Southward Ho Country Club. This year, as usual, the decorations were glorious. Music, by our very own Celeste Belletti, was sensational, the cuisine was excellent, and happy people sharing loving friendships made for a wonderful party.

Applause to the Seasoned Steppers who kicked up their heels to the happy tune of “Jingle Bell Rock.” A great time was had by all!

New York Senior America Honors Our Veterans A very special thank you to Ms. NY Senior America 2014 Jane Rubinstein who created and orchestrated the H.A.V.E (Honor A Veteran Everyday) HEART campaign. This year we are honoring Lisa DeStefano, a Marine Corps veteran. This Christmas will bring many, many happy moments for Lisa and her daughter. Stay tuned for the reveal of our holiday surprises.

We want to thank all our Sponsors for their dedication and support to New York Senior America: Good Old Gold; All Dazzle; Alure Home Improvement; Carol And Gordon Lenz; Spark Realty; Martine Klein; Geltman and Company; The Bresky Law Firm; Kyle Halperin; Meyer, Suozzi, English and Klein Law Firm; Jack Rubinstein; Shechtman, Halperin and Savage Law Firm; Preston Halperin; The Halperin Law Firm; and Guy Halperin.

We are looking for women 55 to 75 years young with dance experience to join the Seasoned Steppers dance troupe. Dust off your tap shoes and call Marleen Schuss at 516-761-7503 for further information.

Become a contestant in the 2019 NY Senior America Pageant.

If you are over 60 with a talent, elegance, and a zest for life you should compete for the crown and title of Ms. New York Senior America.

Does this sound like something in which you or someone you know might be interested? Do not hesitate. Call Marleen Schuss at 516-7617503.

Remember....... "Always say your prayers, but always keep rowing for shore!"

Until next time, Joan and Marleen 50+

CLASSIFIED ADS PERSONALS Foodie, 67, lovely trim F in Eastern Suffolk, seeks well-dressed M or F, for either country drives, getaways or “going Dutch” at fine restaurants.

TEXT 631-379-9477.

PROF. SERVICES

CLASSIFIED FORM ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCTS OR SERVICES

$60 Businesses • $35 Individuals (Non-business related) 15 words - $1 each additional word All ads must be pre-paid. Rates are per month.

For more information call (631) 286-0058 Ext. 220.

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY OR TYPE ON A SEPARATE SHEET OF PAPER

CLEAN HOMES BY STACEY Weekly, bi-weekly-monthly, one time only, Reasonable rates. E. Moriches, C. Moriches, Yaphank and Bellport.

631-902-3787.

FOR SALE CAPE CORAL CONDO FOR SALE Cape Coral, FL. 3BR, 2bath. Gated Community. Great Amenities. Beautiful Sunsets everyday. $210,000. Email: time0343@gmail.com for more info.

All classified ads must be submitted by the 15th.

FREE EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION Email us your Name, City, Zip Code and Email address and we will sign you up for a free monthly email subscription to: Subscriptions@50plusNY.com

Name: Address: City: Phone:

State:

Zip:

Word Count:

Payment: $ ❑ Check ❑ Visa ❑ MasterCard ❑ AE Accout#: Exp. Date: Name on Card: VCode: Section: ❑ Real Estate ❑ For Rent ❑ Wanted ❑ For Sale ❑ Prof. Serv ❑ Other Number of Months you Wish to Run Ad

Mail with check or money order to:

50+ LifeStyles Attn: Classified Department, Barbara Connolly 146 South Country Road • Bellport, NY 11713 Or, fax with charge card # to (631) 286-6866 Or, E-Mail with charge card # to Barbara@50plusny.com -NO PHONE ORDERS TAKEN-

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 21

Fame and Fortune from Midwestern Mud

By Randal C. Hill

I

n 1982 Eddie Murphy returned the nearly forgotten Gumby character to popularity. In Murphy’s Saturday Night Live recurring parody skit, once the in-studio TV cameras were switched off, Gumby (Murphy in a foam green suit) returned to his “true” self — an arrogant, demanding, cigar-chomping celebrity. Whenever executives balked at Gumby’s numerous demands, the clay guy would remind them of his star status by roaring, “I’m GUMBY, dammit!”

“Gumby can laugh at himself,” creator Art Clokey said in approving Murphy’s sendup.

Clokey originated the name after spending childhood summers on his grandparents’ Midwestern farm, where he played with a clay and mud mixture that the family called “gumbo.”

It was Ruth Clokey, Art’s wife, who suggested that Gumby’s shape be based on that of the Gingerbread Man. Gumby’s slanted head came from an old photo of Clokey’s father in which his short hairstyle featured a prominent cowlick in front. Clokey felt that the color green was the best choice for Gumby, as it was racially neutral.

The original Gumby was a groundbreaking stopmotion flexible figure created by Clokey in 1953 after he finished film school at the University of

Southern California. Stop-motion animation features objects that are physically manipulated in small increments between photographed frames in order to simulate movement. Gumby’s feet were made wide so he could stand up easily during filming.

Clokey’s debut feature, Gumbasia, was a surreal montage of Gumby images as moving lumps of modeling clay set to jazz music. Created in Clokey’s father’s garage, the 3 ½-minute work — basically history’s first music video — was really a parody of Walt Disney’s 1940 animated musical Fantasia.

Early in 1955 Clokey showed Gumbasia to movie producer Sam Engel, who was impressed enough to encourage Clokey to develop a short Gumby pilot for a possible children’s TV series.

When NBC executive Tom Sarnoff saw Clokey’s creation, he requested a second feature.

That next work — Gumby on the Moon — was aired later on the Howdy Doody TV show and became such a ratings hit that Sarnoff ordered an entire series, which premiered in 1955 as The Gumby Show.

Gumby, who always possessed an almost mystical ability to charm viewers, soon accumulated a diverse group of clay pals with whom he could

22 50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com

share adventures, starting with Pokey, an orange and black pony and Gumby’s best friend. At the time all the TV characters were formed by rolling pins and cookie cutters.

In 1959 the hit show went into syndication, and further episodes were produced in the 1960s. More new characters appeared, including a blue mermaid named Goo and a yellow dinosaur called Prickle. By then all the characters came from hot clay poured into molds.

Over the years various items of Gumby merchandise have been marketed, including bendable figures, plush dolls, keychains, mugs, a record (Gumby: The Green Album) and a video game (Gumby vs. the Astrobots).

In 1993, in an issue celebrating 40 years of television, TV Guide named Gumby the 1950s’ best cartoon series. Why? That’s easy. Because he’s GUMBY! 50+

Cover Story - The Saga of Shell Raiser and says, “Guess what?” I know it’s gonna’ mean work … and fun. “I got a sailboat. Let’s do it.”

And thus, what would become F/V (fishing vessel) Shell Raiser was born.

Ed got hold of an American 27 someone wanted out of their yard. Last manufactured in 1981, she was a nice little sailboat, complete with cabin, head, masts, sails and a 1500-pound lead keel. All we needed was the fiberglass hull, keel masts and sails, the rest was destined for the scrap heap. We usually worked on Tuesday nights on our boats — this was the third we were building/rebuilding/modifying — and, as Ed’s father Sonny had remarked after our first rebuild, “There ain’t enough Tuesdays, boys.” Once again, he was right. De-construction took a couple of months, and then the hard work started.

From sawing oak strips for the rails and steam bending them in a device we built from scratch, over the months — then years — Shell Raiser took shape.

Life intervenes on the best laid plans, plus, Ed still has the energy of a mid-50s guy, while I have the waning energy of a late-60s guy. We started off intent enough but as the years passed, I started wearing down. Oh, we had lots of guys show up now again… there was Kris who welded the dolly and made the bowsprit, Tommy, who could always be counted on for sanding, Dave, Ted and a bunch of others, but as time passed it was Capt. Ed. who kept pushing on.

And then …four years after the project started, Shell Raiser came out of her garage and saw the light of day … and then saltwater.

On a one of those windy, mercurial fall days, cloudy-when-we-needed-sun and sunny-whenwe-needed-clouds, five of us — Ed, me, Kris, Leroy and Dave, all accomplished powerboaters, but not a sailor amongst us — towed Shell Raiser out of the driveway and onto Main Road in Riverhead, headed for a boat ramp in Greenport. We made good time, happily holding the tourist traffic behind us all the way, then maneuvering the 30 to 40 feet of boat, trailer and mast down some country shortcuts before arriving at a perfect launch ramp.

Last minute snafus made the launching interesting but eventually everything that had to go on the boat was on, and everything that had to come off, was off. The 30-plus-foot mast was up and secure, sails rigged, and Shell Raiser received its first kiss of saltwater. Believe me when I say there were surprised smiles all around, and none happier than on Capt. Ed’s face.

Once aboard, we motored out to the east of the Greenport breakwater, looked at each other and Ed said, “Well, let’s raise the sail.” And, well, we were sailing.

The boat performed beautifully, even if the crew was operating on guesswork. There was some sailing in circles as we tried figuring out how to sail, but eventually we got her going in the correct direction into an outgoing tide and gusts to 30 mph right on the nose. But we inched

our way between Greenport and Shelter Island, dodging the Shelter Island ferries and losing only two things overboard — Dave and Leroy’s caps, which — with our newfound expertise in circling under sail — we quite proficiently recovered.

Opening Day We’re not real sure how it was done back in the late 1800s (scalloping in the bay dates back to at least the late 1850s) and 1900s, pre-gasoline engine, but we were game. Opening day of scallop season is the first Monday of November and ends on March 31. The 2018 (mine and Capt.

Ed’s 17th season scalloping together) season opened at sunrise and we — me, Ed and Leroy — left the dock with headlamps and flashlights aglow. We practiced tacking (sailing back and forth) as we waited for the astronomical witching hour, and then … two dredges went overboard and we were scalloping as generations of baymen had done long ago.

Commercially, Shell Raiser was a flop, but we sailed, didn’t capsize, hauled, dumped and culled for five hours, netting nearly three bushels of delectable shellfish. And as near as we can figure out, no one has sail dredged for scallops on Peconic Bay in around 100 years.

In the words of Scottish philosopher Thomas Carlyle, “Nothing that is worthy in the past departs,” so when the Zombie Apocalypse happens and the oil wells dry up … well, you know where we’ll be. 50+

50+ LifeStyles January 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 23