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Calendar July 16 103.9 Summer Culture Collab Business Expo. Network in luxury at 103.9 LI News Radio's Summer Collaboration at the Hilton Garden Inn on Stony Brook University’s main campus. See today’s newest luxury cars parked next to the Wine and Bourbon Bar and outdoor Cigar Lounge. Then enter into the Iron Skillet Party Room for a taste of the culinary-cook off between celebrity chefs, hosted by Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen Champion DJ CHEF! For info, 631-648-2500. Hilton Garden Inn, 1 Circle Road, Stony Brook; 6 to 9 p.m. Through August 4 Laughing Out Loud! Photography Competition. Thursday, July 11, 7 p.m., led by exhibition Juror Alex Ferrone, of the Alex Ferrone Gallery in Cutchogue, admission is free. July 2 Pickleball Club at Stanco Park. 9:45am. Glen Cove Senior Center, Glen Cove. Info: 516759-9610. July 4 4th of July Concert. The North Shore Pops Concert Band at Heckscher Park, Huntington; 8 p.m. Patriotic music, marches, show tunes, Info: 631-864-2574 or www.northshorepops.org. July 9, 16, 23, 30 Chair Yoga. 1pm. Franklin Square Senior Center. Wesley United Methodist Church, Franklin Square. For info, 516-481-3322. July 11 Senior Group Meeting SAGE. Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome all in my head? Speaker: Gastroenterologist Dr. Chun Kit Hung; 10:30 a.m. to noon Woodbury Jewish Center, Woodbury; 516496-9100 x352. Light Refreshments. Fee - $5.
July 14 Live Poets Society Meeting. Barnes and Noble Booksellers, Manor Lane South and Sunrise Hwy, Bay Shore, 2-3 p.m. For info: 631-581-6740.
a.m. and continues non-stop for 24 hours until July 19 at 9 a.m. The event benefits veterans and active duty military personnel. Info at: longisland@shootoutforsoldiers.com or 516-315-3002.
July 15, 22, 29 Tai Chi. 10:45am. United Methodist Church, Hempstead. 516-565-1568.
July 20 10th Annual Unconditional Love Gala. Cocktails, dinner and dancing to support Animal Shelter Foundation. 631-488-8000.
JulyEvents July 16 (Rain date July 18) North Shore Pops Concert Band. 7pm, Clark Botanical gardens, Albertson. Selections include light classics, marches, and music from the Big
July 23 Celebrate the 50’s and 60’s. 11:45am - 215pm. Freeport Senior Center, 66 Church St., Freeport. For info, 516-623-2008. 50+
Band era and Broadway shows. Free. Contact 631864-2574, or www.northshorepops.org for more information.
July 18-21 The 13th Great South Bay Music Festival. At Shorefront Park in Patchogue Village. Over 75 performers on five stages. America, WAR, Edgar Winter, Dweezil Zappa, Blue Coupe (Members of Alice Cooper Band & BOC), and more. July 18-19 Shootout for Soldiers 24-Hour Lacrosse Benefit Game. The 6th annual “Shootout for Soldiers” 24-Hour Lacrosse Benefit Game at the Town of Oyster Bay’s Field of Dreams, Old Sunrise Highway in Massapequa. Starts July 18 at 9
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RETIRED WITH A PURPOSE? Are you retired and doing great things for your community? Are you volunteering and making a difference? We’d like to hear from you. Drop us an email of 100 words or less to: Frank@50plusNY.com
Ethel Bennett’s
2019
MS. NEW YORK SENIOR AMERICA 34 th Annual Pageant
Sunday July 14, 2019 at Malloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre, NY. Madison Theater. 2:30 PM. Tickets: $25. Veteran’s Discount: $15 per ticket. Call Madison Theater for Tickets: 516-323-4444. Attend “The Queen’s Ball” directly after the Pageant at The Coral House, Baldwin, NY. For additional info call Marleen Schuss 516-761-7503. NewYorkSeniorAmerica.org
SUMMER OF ‘19 CONTEST
Win two tickets to see either Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band or The Secret Comedy of Women. For more info see pages 10 & 12.
GOLFERS WIN! Are you a golfer? Would you like to win a signed print from the PGA Championship at Bethpage? Email your name, address and your favorite golf course to play on to Frank@50plusNY.com
Courtesy of... E-mail your name and address to: Frank@50plusny.com.
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FRANKIE VALLI WINNERS
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Frank C. Trotta ext. 100
Carol Knussman, Sayville. Toni Delligatti, Deer Park. Mary Millwater, Coram. Frank Racaniello, Little Neck. Sherry Bloom, Wantagh. HIDIN’ HARRY WINNERS Congratulations to our Hidin’ Harry winners from the June issue who told us they couldn’t find Harry! Apparently he went AWOL at the last minute. The winners are Elaine Hearns of North Bellmore and Robert Sauchelli of St. James. Both will be receiving a pair of Theatre Three tickets in the mail. 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, PER MONTH, PLEASE!
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™
Winner of 10 National Awards
50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 5
Age of Elegance Curtain Time is Here! July 14. Marleen Schuss
Come and Meet the Class of 2019!
Beverly Bell Glen Head
Denise Crutchfield Coram
Judy Merrick Huntington
Laura Lorenzo Mastic Beach
Linda Faessler Kings Park
Lisa DiBella Kings Park
Miriam Baruch Merrick
Miriam Chall Melville
Nancy Whitter Floral Park
Sandra Bosko Forest Hills
Joan Allen
T
he curtain will be going up for the 34th New York Senior America Pageant on Sunday, July 14, 2019, 2:30 p.m. at the Madison Theater at Molloy College in Rockville Centre. The Pageant celebrates women of achievement, age 60 and over who, with their talent, abilities and positive projection of aging, best exemplify what senior women can and do accomplish. The women are judged on their personal Interview, gown presentation, philosophy of life and talent. Don't miss this most inspirational afternoon!
Until next time, Joan and Marleen COUPON
Women Must Be 60 Years or Over I would like to compete in the 2019 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant.
FOR PAGEANT TICKETS: Call the Madison Theater at 516-323-4444. Ticketsare $25; Group rates (10 or more): $20; Veterans Discount-$15. An early reservation for your reserved seats is recommended.
Name
Concluding the pageant we celebrate at the Pageant Gala. For information call: Enid Merin at 516-495-4931
E-mail Address
The beat goes on ... We already have our very first candidate for 2020! It is never too early to become part of the New York Senior America family. fill out the coupon.
6 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com
Address Telephone
Return to: Marleen Schuss, State Director 318 East Shore Drive, Massapequa, NY 11758 More info, Phone: 516-678-3242 • 516-761-7503
Curran Unveils 2019 Property Tax Exemptions Workshop Schedule s part of her continued efforts to help homeowners reduce their property tax burden, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, in partnership with the county legislature, will be hosting a series of Property Tax Exemptions Workshops from July through November at libraries and community meeting halls throughout the county. Department of Assessment staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide individual assistance to any homeowner who would like to file for his or her Veterans, Senior Citizen, Cold War Veterans, Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers, Limited Income Disability, or Home Improvement exemption on-site. As part of New York State’s Mandatory Enhanced STAR Income Verification Program (IVP) that was implemented last year, Enhanced STAR recipients are no longer required to file a renewal application with Department of Assessment. NYS will verify STAR income eligibility and contact applicants, if additional information is needed. All property tax exemptions workshops, except East Meadow, will be offered from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The August 26 workshop at the East Meadow United Methodist Church will be held from 2 to 3:30 p.m. For further info regarding property tax exemptions or other assessment questions, contact the Department of Assessment at 516-571-1500.
A
TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD Wednesday, July 10, 2019 Uniondale Public Library, 400 Uniondale Ave. Friday, July 12, 2019 Merrick Public Library, 2279 Merrick Ave. Friday, July 19, 2019 Long Beach Public Library, 111 West Park Ave. Monday, July 29, 2019 Lynbrook Public Library, 56 Eldert St. Wednesday, August 7, 2019 North Merrick Public Library, 1691 Meadowbrook Rd. Wednesday, August 14, 2019 Franklin Square Library 19 Lincoln Rd. Friday, August 23, 2019 Oceanside Public Library, 30 Davison Ave. TOWN OF OYSTER BAY Monday, July 15, 2019 Plainview Jewish Center 95 Floral Dr. Friday, July 26, 2019 Massapequa Park (Bar Harbor) Public Library, 40 Harbor La. Wednesday, July 31, 2019 Hicksville Public Library, 169 Jerusalem Ave. Friday, August 2, 2019 Syosset Public Library, 225 South Oyster Bay Rd. TOWN OF NORTH HEMPSTEAD Wednesday, July 17, 2019 Albertson VFW Post 5253, 155 Searingtown Rd. Monday, July 22, 2019 Great Neck House, 14 Arrandale Ave. Wednesday, July 24, 2019 Pt Washington Public Library, One Library Dr. Friday, August 9, 2019 Westbury Community Center, 360 Post Ave. Monday, August 12, 2019 Great Neck Public Library, 159 Bayview Ave. Monday, August 19, 2019 Manhasset Public Library, 30 Onderdonk Ave. Homeowners who will be filing for a property tax exemption are encouraged to MAKE COPIES of their 2018 Federal and State Income Tax Forms, Driver’s License, and any other documentation that is required PRIOR TO THE WORKSHOP. Documentation requirements can be viewed on the application that is available on the Department of Assessment website at www.nassaucountyny.gov/1501/Assessment. 50+ 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 7
Q: I don’t know if I should admit this, but I’m reading a steamy series on my Kindle by Jennifer Blackwood. First up is “Burning Up.” I figure it’s hot in the summer, so my reading material should be hot as well! — Phyllis Bogart, Nurse
Readers Spotlight By Mary Malloy
“What is your go-to
Summer or Vacation Read”?
I am in the midst of reading the postWorld War II novel "The Caine Mutiny” by Herman Woul. I saw the movie and now I want to read the book. The “strawberry fiasco” scene was a very interesting play on psychosis. — Bob Geltman, Construction Engineer
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I’m planning on reading “City of Girls” by Elizabeth Gilbert on my Kindle. It’s a risqué story about a young girl discovering that you don’t have to be a good girl to be a good person. It’s set in the 1940s. Gilbert wrote “Eat, Pray, Love” and I like her style of writing. — Linda Bakal, Medical Reception-
“3000 Things About Me.” It’s a real icebreaker, even with just two people playing. The book is thought-provoking and at the same time fun. It’s a great way to get to know people, or to get to know yourself! — Linda Miller , Cust. Service Rep
I chose “Becoming” by Michelle Obama because I admire her as a strong, unapologetic woman who always rose above her circumstances. Her story is so relatable, and she is a genuine woman. — Sandra Proto, Creative Writing teacher, author, poet
I’m reading “The Boys in the Boat,” by Daniel James Brown. It’s a story about the perseverance of crew team from the University of Washington, a group of regular kids competing with the best-ofthe-best colleges. — Stan Cohen, Furniture Restoration
VeteransNews
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HELP WANTED
PT/FT Advertising Sales Rep • Great Commission • Flexible Hours/Days
Zeldin Holds Veterans Town Hall Meeting Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1) held a veterans town hall and mobile office hours at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6249 in Rocky Point, New York, during which Congressman Zeldin answered questions regarding the issues most important to Long Island veterans, including Northport VA, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, the Flexible VA Loan Guarantee Act, and a variety of other topics. Constituents interested in participating in a future meeting can contact Congressman Zeldin’s office at (631) 289-1097.
Suffolk County Veterans Resource Guide Coming Soon! Suffolk County has one of the largest military veterans population in the country, and the largest in New York State. “What’s missing in this county is a place where all of those resources can be found and that will be in the upcoming “Suffolk County Veterans Resource Guide,” said Suffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker. “As the daughter of a disabled Navy veteran, I know how important it is to provide assistance to our veterans and their families.” Legislator Anker sponsored IR No. 1433-2019 that directs the County’s Veterans Service Agency to produce the guide. The resolution was passed unanimously at the General Legislature meeting on June 4, 2019. The guide will be available in October of this year. For more information about Suffolk County’s Veterans Services call 631-853-VETS (8387).
For more info contact: Tim Edwards tim@50plusNY.com
Islandia Memorial Day Celebration Allan M. Dorman (fourth from right), Mayor, Village of Islandia, is joined by members of the Central Long Island chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association and the Col. Francis S. Midura Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #12144, Gina Lekstutis (fourth from left), Owner, Gina’s Enchanted Flower Shoppe, and Michael Fitzpatrick (right), New York State Assemblyman, at the village’s Memorial Day ceremony on May 25. Veterans Committee Report Announcement In recognition of military service, this year Kevin Moriarty was nominated for New York’s 1st Senate District “Veterans Hall of Fame” award. Kevin is a Vietnam Era veteran who served in the US Army Corp of Engineers after graduating from Longwood High School in 1973, and served until December of 1981. He separated from the Army having achieved the rank of Sergeant. He graduated from the US Army Defense Mapping School, and, The US Army Non-Commissioned Officers Engineer School, at Ft Belvoir VA, and was the "Honor Graduate" of the Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Academy, in Bad Toltz Germany. Kevin has also been a member of The American Legion, Wilson Rich Post, Port Jeff Station, NY for thirty-four years. 50+
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Writers Corner
By Linda Maria Frank
An Author’s Journey By Roland Allnach
I
t's safe to say that authors begin as avid readers. My story is no different, but my journey to being a multi-award-winning published author was not a straight path. In my youth my principal means of creative expression was through art. The more I read, though, the more I realized I wanted to say much more than the thousand-word weight of a single picture. At 16 I wrote my first short story. Art was out and writing became my creative passion, although I've invested my narrative voice with an artist's visual sensibility. As much as my creative passion resided with writing, pragmatism led me toward a technical profession for reliable income. Over the succeeding years I wrote a large collection of short stories and novels. I made several attempts to secure an agent, received a few nibbles of interest, but no bites. My approach changed not so much out of frustration for not realizing publication but more out of the conviction that I owed it to myself to take a disciplined approach in my writing. I rounded up my strongest short stories, edited and revised to get them into the best shape possible, and worked to build a list of publication credentials with the goal of moving toward book publication. By keeping to a schedule of several hours a week dedicated to submitting my stories I built a healthy list of credits over a two-year span, along with a few editorial awards and a Pushcart Prize nomination. With that in place, I moved forward and in 2010 saw the publication of Remnant, a collection of three science fiction novellas. With my 50th birthday behind me, I've expanded my credits to seven books (Oddities & Entities, Prism, The Digital Now, The Writer’s Primer, "Oddities & Entities 2: Vessels and Angela's Arm). My books have been recognized with more than a dozen national book awards, and I currently serve as president of Long Island Authors Group. It's been an interesting road, and I can’t wait to see what’s yet to come. For more information, visit me at: www.rolandallnach.com.
Roland Allnach has been writing since his early teens. He is an avid reader, with his main interests residing in history, mythology, and literary classics, along with some fantasy and science fiction in his earlier years. 50+
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LowVision Doctor Helps VisuallyImpaired to See Again! Have You Been Told Nothing Else Can Be Done?
This Simply May Not Be True! For patients struggling with Macular Degeneration or other vision impairing problems, Dr. Schoenbart can help you maintain freedom and independence. Would You Like To Drive Again? Would you like to read better? Go to the movies or enjoy television better? Low Vision Specialist, Dr. Steven Schoenbart has helped hundreds of patients with the benefit of today’s technology improve the quality of their life.
See Your World
Bioptic glasses for driving
Better!
Dr. Schoenbart, member of American Optometric Assoc. and International Academy of Low Vision Specialists
Call 516-219-8690 For A FREE Phone Consultation or To Schedule an Appointment
Low vision can be caused by a number of diseases and factors in seniors, such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma. Many patients are amazed that with the use of the miniature telescopic glasses prescribed by Dr. Schoenbart they can drive, read, watch TV, sew, play cards, see faces and many more activities that they thought were no longer an option for them!
LowVisionOfNY.com • 901 Stewart Ave, Suite 202, Garden City, NY 11530 10 50+ LifeStyles April 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com
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Can You Retire on Long Island? Should You Stay or Should You Go? By Mark J. Snyder ChFC, CLU, CFS, RFC, CMFC, CFP, CRC, RMA, RF
Visit: www.markjsnyder.com
L
ong Island has a lot to offer but it is also a relatively expensive place to live, especially for retirees. While other locations may be desirable retirement destinations, once you have adjusted to the warmer climate and lower living costs, will you and your spouse be happy there for the long term?
Cost-of-living expenses here typically rank among the highest in the nation Long Island features miles of beautiful beaches, mass transit, world-class health and educational facilities, a diverse economy plus relatively easy access to New York City and major transit hubs. For each of the positive aspects, taxes and other cost-of-living expenses here typically rank among the highest in the nation. Although a simple internet search will uncover numerous
areas where the cost of living is less than on Long Island, many retirees and pre-retirees express a desire to remain here. Many do not like the idea of being far from family and friends, as well as health care providers, houses of worship and other elements of home. Below are seven simple steps you can take in order to make your Long Island retirement a reality: 1. Where’s the Money Going? Gradually adjust expenditures toward a future budget. Run your household like a business. 2. Start Living Like a Retiree. Change your lifestyle to reflect how it might be in retirement. This may mean home downsizing, reducing leisure travel or driving a more efficient car. 3. Increase Savings or 15 / 15. When within 15 years of retirement, annually contribute a minimum of 15% of earnings toward retirement. 4. Explore Social Security Choices. Post-
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poning benefits until age 70 can significantly boost lifetime income. As this can get complicated, it can pay to speak with a Social Security advisor. 5. Be Diversified. A broadly diversified, well-balanced portfolio of equities, bonds and cash positioned for the long term often offers the ability to maintain growth of capital while minimizing volatility. 6. Keep Learning. Attend personal finance and retirement planning seminars or take a course at a local library or college. 7. Have a Plan. Many procrastinate when it comes to saving and often fail to plan or set goals. Dedicate one hour a week to focus on saving, investing, taxes, insurance and building net worth. Mark Snyder is an independent financial advisor in Medford, NY. To help plan your retirement or to get a free copy of his personal finance newsletter, The Snyder Report, please contact: 631-289-4224/ mailbox@markjsnyder.com.
Flushing House, New York State’s largest not-for-profit, Independent Living retirement Community, Honors it Longest Living Residents In A Roof Top Celebration
F
ushing House, a 55+ community, is home to eleven Centenarians who will be recognized on Sunday, July 14th at 2 PM. The rooftop celebration has been organized by the Flushing House Resident Council Executive Committee to honor their longest living residents. This is not a birthday celebration but rather a celebration of life with friends, neighbors and family. The Centenarian Celebration will give the 300 residents of Flushing House a chance to share their secrets to a long, happy life while refreshments and cake are served by the Flushing House Culinary Team. Approximately, only 1 in 4,500 people in the United States live to be 100. The chance to celebrate the lives of 11 people that have reached this milestone is truly a rare occasion and inspiring to be in their presence. The stories and memories these residents have serve as an important history lesson of lives well lived and decades of progress and hard work to get to this point. The lives of older adults are ones to be cherished and celebrated and Flushing House provides the perfect community for that. Flushing House is an innovative retirement residence built in 1974. It was one of the first to offer older adults Independent Living with supportive services right on the premises. As New York State’s largest not-for-profit, Independent Living retirement residence, their proud mission is: “To provide a safe, enjoyable and affordable retirement experience for our residents.” For more information visit: FlushingHouse.com or e-mail Michael@uam.org
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1969: A Space Odyssey Some Little-Known Stories about the First Moon Landing By Randal Hill
B
y the early 1960s, America was trailing the Soviet Union in space development. This undoubtedly played a part in President John F. Kennedy’s appeal on May 25, 1961, to a special joint session of Congress when he pronounced, “I believe this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to Earth.” 400,000 Helping Hands - and Grumman Eight years later, at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center at 9:32 a.m. on the morning of July 16, 1969, Apollo 11 thundered off the launch pad in a billowy cloud of smoke, destined for immortality. Neil Armstrong, a 38-yearold civilian research pilot, led the three-man crew, which also consisted of Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, 39, and Michael Collins, 38. The total number of scientists, engineers, service and construction workers involved in the Apollo 11 project had surged to more than 400,000 by that crisp, clear summer morning. The Lunar Module (the name was changed from Lunar Excursion Model, but was almost always referred to as “LEM” even after the change), was chiefly designed by Grumman Aerospace engineer Thomas J. Kelly. The company’s Bethpage site and some 3000 of its engineers built the LM which would become the most reliable part of the Apollo/Saturn unit. In the next 76 hours, the astronauts soared 240,000 miles, averaging over 3,100 miles per hour. They entered a lunar orbit on July 19, and the next day, at 1:46 p.m., their LM, Eagle, separated from the command module, Columbia, where Michael Collins remained on board to monitor the situation. 25 Seconds To Go The Eagle began its descent to the lunar surface two hours later. However, Armstrong realized that boulders and craters scattered at the landing site, posed a hazard. He eased his craft over to a flatter, safer place nearby. The maneuver burned fuel that was already running low. When the Eagle finally settled onto the moon’s Sea of Tranquility, the remaining fuel would have only lasted another 25 seconds before the landing would automatically have been aborted in order to guarantee adequate fuel for the return flight. Armstrong immediately radioed Mission Control in Houston with his now-iconic announcement “The Eagle has landed.” What’d I Say? At 10:39 p.m. that evening, Armstrong descended from the ship as a television camera attached to the Eagle (also a Grumman design) beamed the astronauts’ progress back to Earth. When he opened the hatch and stepped onto the moon’s surface, he maintained that he had intended to say, “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” but a
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possible momentary microphone glitch had him announcing to the world, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Aldrin followed Armstrong 19 minutes later, being careful not to lock the Eagle’s hatch, as there was no outer handle… and no Roadside Assistance! Rocks, Walks, Heat Following NASA’s directive, Armstrong and Aldrin loaded nearly 50 pounds of rocks and soil into the Eagle, took photographs and conducted tests. The hardest task facing the two was the planting of the American flag (which had come from Sears). The moon’s surface was rock-hard, and the astronauts only managed to hammer Old Glory a few inches into the surface, where it subsequently fell over from the Eagle’s takeoff blast. The pair spent 21 hours and 36 minutes on the moon. They stayed in their craft for over six hours after landing, and allso took frequent breaks when during the walks. The thermally cooled underwear they wore inside their spacesuits helped them fend off the potentially lethal 200-degree lunar temperatures. Homeward Bound The men returned to the lunar module by 1:11 a.m. Then, just before they secured the hatch, Aldrin accidentally tripped the circuit breaker on the main engine; after a moment of panic, though, he was able to push the breaker back into the correct position with a felt-tip pen. Besides the American flag, the astronauts left behind several other items, including a plaque that read: “Here men from the planet Earth first set foot on the moon — July 1969 A.D. — We came in peace for all mankind.” Armstrong and Aldrin reconnected successfully with Collins and Columbia, and at 12:56 a.m. on July 22, Apollo 11 began its journey home, safely splashing into the Pacific Ocean two days later. It is estimated that over 550 million people worldwide followed the event on television. I Don’t Believe It! Though etched in our collective consciousness, the celebration this month of the 50th anniversary will probably not change the minds of a small group of conspiracy theorists who believe that NASA faked the July 20, 1969, moon landing. In 2002, the Washington Post featured a news item concerning Buzz Aldrin. The former astronaut was leaving a Beverly Hills hotel when he was accosted by a conspiracy theorist who shrieked, “You’re the one who said you walked on the moon when you didn’t!” After calling Aldrin a liar, the man waved a Bible in Aldrin’s face and insisted that he swear the truth on it. The former astronaut settled the matter by knocking the accuser to the ground with a well-placed right cross to the jaw. 50+ 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 17
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Senior Picnic 2019
Over 1000 seniors attended Brookhaven Town’s Two day senior picnic held at the Longwood Estate. The day included music, dancing, hot dogs and hamburgers, watermelon, salads and refreshments. Supervisor Ed Romaine addressed the seniors and provided canvas shopping bags to all of the guests.
Senior of the Year Honored lose to 600 seniors joined together to celbrate Older Americans Month and honor Steve Rochester, 2019 Suffolk Senior of the
C
1
Year at the event, held at Villa Lombardi’s in Holbrook. Steve retired from the Brentwood School District after teaching Social Studies for 37 years and, after years of positively influencing his students, Mr. Rochester now impacts the lives of those attending the Suffolk YJCC’s senior center. As a volunteer for the past six years, he has assisted with all aspects of the nutrition program on a daily basis. Mr. Rochester helps participants with computer issues and also teaches an American History class every other week at the senior center. He is a volunteer high school coach and is president of a local celiac support group. As volunteers, he and his wife traveled to assist victims of Hurricane Katrina. They also volunteered to assist those affected by super storm Sandy. A resident of Deer Park, Mr. Rochester has been married to his wife Ilene for 44 years and they have two sons and one grandchild. 1 (Top left): Legislator Sara Anker; Steve Rochester; County Executive Steve Bellone; and Director, Office of the Aging Holly Rhodes Teague. (Bottom right): John Cochran, Deputy Director, NYS Office for the Aging. 50+ 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 19
Cover Story - Johnny Mathis
Wonderful, Wonderful!
The ‘Voice of Romance’ Johnny Mathis Returns to the Long Island Stage By Mary Malloy
T
his year marks Johnny Mathis’s 63rd year as a recording artist, and in all that time, he’s never stopped touring and recording. Best-known for his popular hits like “Chances Are," "It's Not for me to Say," and "Misty,” Mathis has recorded close to 80 albums, six Christmas albums, and has sold millions of records worldwide. His upcoming concert at NYCB Theatre at Westbury on Saturday, July 13 at 8 p.m. is part of his ongoing Voice of Romance Tour. His last appearance at the Long Island venue was June 2018.
three songs inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, achieved 50 Hits on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart, and ranks as the all-time No. 6 album artist in the history of Billboard’s pop album charts. He has received five Grammy nominations, and in 2003 he was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Two years ago, he received an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from his Alma Mater, San Francisco State University. Mathis and his music have appeared in over 60 films and TV shows – not to mention being an inspiration for many a romantic courtship, marriage proposal and ultimate wedding song. In September 2017, Columbia Records released Mathis’s 78th studio album “Johnny Mathis Sings The Great New American Songbook,” produced by music legends Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and Clive Davis. The songs, which include “You Raise Me Up,” “Just The Way You Are,” and “Hello,” are contemporary, with his definitively recognizable and velvety voice.
With a very busy tour schedule and many charity events, Johnny still finds time to enjoy life and exercise regularly. He was an avid tennis player until the late 1960s, and he now plays golf almost every day when he's not traveling – he’s even hosted his own golf tournament, The Johnny Mathis Seniors PGA Classic. He is also quite the gourmet chef thanks to his parents, who taught him how to cook at an early age.
Photo Credit: FMollin
Fifty Plus Lifestyles had a chance to talk with Mr. Mathis, now 83, before his upcoming New York appearance at NYCB Theatre. He was spontaneous, charming and reflective – and he chuckled loudly when asked if he thinks he still may be America’s “heartthrob.”
Photo Credit: RoJon
The fourth of seven children, Johnny Mathis was born John Royce Mathis on September 30, 1935 in Gilmer, Texas, to Clem and Mildred Mathis. When he was a young boy, the family moved to San Francisco, where Mathis learned an appreciation of music from his father, who taught him his first song, “My Blue Heaven.” When Mathis was eight, his father, who had worked briefly as a musician in Texas playing the piano and singing on stage, bought an old upright piano for $25. He would go on to teach his son many songs and routines on that piano. Young John proved to be the most eager of the Mathis children to learn about music. He sang in the church choir, school functions, community events, for visitors in their home, as well as in amateur shows in the San Francisco area. He was also a successful track and field athlete, so much so that he was offered a chance to compete in the U.S. Olympic Trials. It was that same week that Columbia Records called — and Mathis ultimately choose to go to New York to record his first album, which was released on July 16, 1956. During his extensive career, Mathis has had
Fifty Plus Lifestyles: Mr. Mathis, how do you feel about coming back to NYCB Westbury Theatre? Oh, it’s absolutely perfect isn’t it? It’s in the round, and everyone’s so close to you. Photo Credit: David Vance
That year he also released a career-spanning 68-disc box set, Johnny Mathis ‘The Voice of Romance: The Columbia Original Album Collection,’ through Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment. (2016 had marked Mathis’s 60th anniversary as a recording artist – 57 years with Columbia, and three years with Mercury Records.) Last year, his “lost” 1981 album “I Love My Lady” produced by Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, was released on vinyl and digital download. Mathis continues to be Columbia Records longest signed recording artist, and to fans of all ages he is known as The Voice of Romance and The Voice of Christmas.
20 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com
Q: After all these years, do you still enjoy performing live? Yes! That’s the essence of what someone like myself does, because it’s so much a part of our lives — in fact it’s such a big deal that hovers over you, whatever you do in your day, you always think, “I’ve got to sing, I’ve got to go onstage.” And you’ve got to look a certain way. Years ago, I was a high jumper and hurdler on a track team, so I got accustomed to working out, so that’s not too bad. I still go to the gym five days a week so that I can get into my clothes onstage. But it’s one of those things that I love – the fact that I can sing at this point in my life. I started singing (Continued on page 24)
50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 21
Raise Your Hand, Find Your Passion Enriching Your Retirement Through Volunteerism By Mary Malloy
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olunteering can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience at any age. Especially after retirement, many people feel that their self-worth was tied to their job, and they’re looking for something meaningful to do with their lives. To share your story, email Frank@ 50PlusNY.com. Tom Sarc, 63, of Central Islip, is not yet fully retired, but fills in the time when he’s not working with an array of altruistic activities. Retired from Verizon in 2001 and then working for Visionworks, he now works part time as security for the Central Islip Library. His wife, Maria, works as a teacher’s assistant in Central Islip. He is a published author and artist, a former volunteer firefighter since the 1980s, and a former lieutenant with the U.S. Air Force Civil Air Patrol. He is also a 4th-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, and volunteers with the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Fraternal Order of Police. He is a Eucharistic Minister at St. John of God, and a member of the Islip, Patchogue and Smithtown art councils, as well as a member of the Long Island City Artists. He is also the author of 15 books, and an abstract artist. And
yet he still spends quality time with his twoyear-old year grandson Christopher and newborn granddaughter Sarah.
Tom Sarc, left, with Suffolk County Commissioner Geraldine Hart “You make time for the things you want to do,” he said. “A lot of my time is taken up with
family, and the rest I make time for. My grandchildren live here on Long Island, so I get to spend time with them on my days off.” How did he get started in some of his volunteer activities? “I talk to people about the things I’m interested in. If you like airplanes, for example, there are some aerospace organizations on Long Island. You can find groups through your local library, who have pamphlets, flyers and listing of support groups.” With his books, Sarc said that he is self-published, and started writing about 30 years ago. He’s written everything from ethics in business to children’s books. “I wrote a lot of poetry in college, and I always excelled in English.” Also near and dear to his heart is creating abstract art. “You make time for these things,” Sarc said. “Some of them require attending meetings once a month, along with a few fundraisers and events. Some things are not extremely time consuming, but they’re very rewarding. Do whatever you can fit into your life” Tom Sarc’s books and art can be found online at www.thomassarc.com and www.thomassarcart.mysite.com. 50+
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50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 23
(Johnny Mathis continued from page 20) onstage when I was 12 or 13. It’s still very exciting for me, still very rewarding. Q: Is it a different energy onstage with a live audience than recording in the studio? It’s the most dynamic … you somehow have to preserve the stamina, the electricity, the fact that people come to see you and watch you and listen to you. When you think about it, it’s a big deal ... it doesn’t have a chance to get old. Of course, I sometimes have nightmares about falling off the stage (laughs)…but you learn to monitor it, somehow you get to a point where [the fear] doesn’t affect your performance.
Photo Credit: RoJon
Q: What do you see when you look out into the audience? It’s everything! Young ones, old ones, men, women, children. Fortunately, the kind of music that I sing isn’t too difficult to absorb, it’s kind of pleasant, it’s popular music, and the whole thing is whether they like sound of your voice. Q: On your latest album, “Johnny Mathis Sings The Great New American Songbook,” you sing more contemporary songs. I listened to you sing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” before we talked, which was quite beautiful. Do you like singing the newer songs? Oh, bless your heart! When I was singing as a youngster, the record company said, “We want you to sing the songs of the day, the songs that people hear on the radio” and I did that for many, many years; and then I got to the point where people wanted me to be the person that brought the new songs to fore … and so now, I get a chance to sing songs like “Hallelujah,” songs that are current today…it’s exciting to sing songs that people are familiar with. Q: How do you know which contemporary love songs you want to sing? I was thinking about the fact that, when I was growing up, I had all kinds of recordings that I
listened to, and that’s how I learned songs and how I kind of got a direction for my music. But nowadays, it’s quite different. I can’t find the niche that I had when I was a kid. I used to listen to some of the greatest singers of all time, and that’s how I learned which songs really suited me. It’s a little difficult nowadays -- but popular music is about change. The thing that I have to work on is to find songs from today’s market that suit my voice. It can be challenging. Q: Do you still consider yourself a heartthrob? (Laughing) Oh, no! I used to go onstage, I was so scared ... and no one wants to see a little frightened kid onstage. I am blessed because of my mom and my dad, and the way I was raised. They had seven children, and my dad was my best pal. He’s the reason that I sing because he sang. Being a heartthrob is nowhere near what I was all about …I was just making sure that I sang in tune and that I didn’t ruin my voice, and trying to find something to wear onstage ... that was the hardest part, because I had no money, so I wore on stage whatever I wore to school. That doesn’t work anymore … you have to spruce up a bit!” Q: What is your style now? Suave, debonair? It’s minimalist – plain white shirt, blue suit – nowadays, they wear bronze shoes with blue suits, and I go, “hmm, they wouldn’t let us out of the house like that when I was a kid! So, things change, and you’ve got to loosen up a little bit. Q: What do you think you’d be doing with your life if you weren’t an entertainer? I’d probably be a teacher, because my whole life has revolved around teachers taking their time to teach me when I had to learn in order to do what I do today. It started with my dad, [he] was my first teacher and he gave me whatever knowledge he had about singing from the time I was a little kid until I was about five or six years old. And then when I got to be about 12 or 13, we looked around the San Francisco area where I was raised to find someone who could teach me vocally how to sing and not hurt my vocal cords. So, I’ve always been involved somehow in learning, something that’s going to enhance my career. I think if I hadn’t had the success over the years with my voice, I might have tried to pass it along in a knowledgeable way to young people … and I’ve been able to do that on a few occasions, when I worked with some extraordinarily gifted singers, like Dionne Warwick and Barbra Streisand -- the ladies I’ve sung with over the years -- and I learned from them, and they ask me questions, about how I do this, how I do that … and it’s been kind of a learning process all the way along.
24 50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com
Photo Credit: Columbia Archive
Q: What are some songs that you never get tired of? The songs that I really love are the ones that I grew up listening to, sung by my favorite singers — Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughn, Lena Horne, Billy Eckstine, those were the popular singers of the day when I was growing up. And they sang songs that have become standard over the years. Because I grew up in San Francisco, there were a lot of different cultures from what I was accustomed to … Latinos, Chinese, Middle Eastern, so over the years I recorded a lot of songs in different languages. Q: Did you do that phonetically? I tried it phonetically, then I decided to get some really good information, I got away with not doing it perfectly in person, but when I recorded I had to get it a little more exact, so I got [language experts] and whenever I sang in Portuguese, or Spanish, or French or German, I always had a good teacher in the studio with me. I think the most difficult was trying to sound romantic in German! Q: Are you happy to be coming to New York? I think one of my greatest thrills, and it’s still very close to my heart, is that I came to New York all by myself when I was 18 years old, and they embraced me, and it was the most wonderful change in my life that had ever happened -- and from then on, I was a citizen of the world …. every language, every race of people, and I was totally involved, and it enhanced my life so much that I can’t even equate it with anything. New York for me has a special, special place in my heart. What’s next for Johnny Mathis? “I don’t think about retiring,” he said. “I think about how I can keep singing for the rest of my life. I just have to pace myself.” 50+
Around The Towns... Send your news items to Frank@50plusny.com
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1. Supervisor Ed Romaine (left) was on hand to present a proclamation to Elaine Faith Thompson (center), who has been recognized by the Colonel Josiah Smith Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution with a National Art Award. The presentation was made during a luncheon held at the Bellport Country Club. Also pictured is chapter Regent, Dr. Joan Graham Nathan (right). 2. Recently, Councilman Loguercio (back row, second from left) attended the Coram Civic Association meeting held at the Coram Fire Department headquarters. (Left to right, seated): Coram Civic Association officers, including Membership Secretary Vana McClure; President Erma Gluck; Recording Secretary Jean Hartling; Treasurer W. Paul Ziems; Councilman Loguercio; Sergeant-At-Arms Robert Cluck and Vice President Chris Reilly. 3. (From left): Deputy Presiding Officer Rob Calarco, Legislator Susan A. Berland, Legislator Al Krupski, County Executive Steve Bellone, Legislator Sarah Anker, Good Samaritan Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Donald Teplitz, D.O., Legislator Steven Flotteron and Legislator Rudy Sunderman unveil the County’s new free sunscreen dispenser program at Smith Point County Park. 50+
50+ LifeStyles July 2019 • www.50PlusNY.com 25
SOCIAL SECURITY COLUMN
Celebrating Independence Day By John Biundo; Social Security Assistant District Manager in Patchogue
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he Fourth of July brings family and friends together, as well as neighbors, to celebrate that we’re all part of a community. Everyone pitches in, combining their resources — great food, music, and displays — to lift our spirits. Social Security has been helping people maintain their independence for over 80 years. In that time, we’ve made it even easier for you to access the programs and benefits you might need. Today, applying online is a fast way to get those crucial benefits. Here are some of the benefits you can apply for: Retirement or Spouse’s Benefits – You must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and want your benefits to start no more than four months in the future. Apply at www.socialsecurity.gov/retireonline. PERSONALS
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