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Copy May 2016 Long Island Edition • Vol. 41 #7

Grandparenting:

The Science Project

Dueling Stoves Story page 10

Suffolk Follows Nassau with

Retirement Checkup

Security Alarm Registration Law

Story page 12

You MUST Register!

By Barbara LaMonica

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he Suffolk County Legislature passed a law requiring homeowners and merchants to register their security alarm systems with the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD). Nassau County already has a similar law on the books. Following introduction of the law on November 17, 2015 and a public hearing in December, the law took effect April 1. Failure to register security systems with the Suffolk County Police Department will result in penalties for parties who do not adhere to the law.

While the majority of the legislature endorses the legislation, some residents are questioning

Variations on Gift Giving For Your Spouse Story page 15

What is Uber and how does it work?

Continued on page 9

Clash of the Grandmas!

Story page 21

Food Network Casting for New Series

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he Food Network is on the hunt for Grandmothers to battle it out in a fun cooking throw down! From tasty entrees to delectable desserts, they’re looking for the best dishes by everyone's favorite cooks — Grandmothers!

Email grandmothercasting@leg-corp.com for more information.

May Events ............................. Page 3 Crosswords ............................Page 16 Around The Towns................... Page 6 Sudoku................................... Page 16 Veterans News ......................... Page 8 Classified Ads .......................... Page 23

Coming in the June Issue Health, Fitness, Mens Health & Awareness

It’s Good to be Queen Story page 22

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

May

3

Events

(Send event info to Frank@50plusny.com)

What to Do, Where to Go, What to See, on Long Island and the Surrounding Area

Through May 17

May 21

The Bob Feller Act of Valor Award Exhibit, A Walk of Heroes. A Visual Tour of Baseball Legends and American Heroes. At the Cradle of Aviation, 51 Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: 516572-4111.

Boat Handling Seminar. The Peconic Bay Power Squadron will present “Boat Handling Under Power”, part of the USPS University seminar series, at 9 a.m. at Strong’s Marine, 2400 Camp Mineola Road, Mattituck. Fee: $30. Info: Fred Smith at 631-2981930 or visit www.PBPS.us.

April 30- May 1 Yard Sale for Wildlife. Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown is holding its annual yard sale. Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown; 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; 631-979-6344.

May 2 Bereavement/Gentle Yoga and Stretching. This therapeutic new daytime group is for you if you recently loss your spouse; 11 a.m. for seven weeks.

At Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside; 516-634-4010; www.friedbergjcc.org; plerner@friedbergjcc.org. Cost: $125.

May 3-8 Mother’s Day Fair. Family friendly indoor mall craft/gift shows featuring local and regional vendors with handmade crafts and unique items. Broadway Mall, Route 106/107, Hicksville. Info: 718-241-4630.

May 6 Five Towns College Chamber Music and Guitar Ensemble. At the Heckscher Museum of Art, 2 Prime Avenue, Huntington; 7 p.m. Info: 631-351-3250.

May 21 Pet Adoption Fair. Come meet your new best friend at our 5th Annual Pet Adoption Fair. Representatives from over a dozen agencies will be in attendance with adoptable cats, dogs, and more. Bring the whole family. At the Sachem Public Library, 100 Holbrook Road, Holbrook; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please do not bring your own pets. Info: 631-588-5024.

May 21-22 WWII Historical Encampment. The Old Bethpage Village Restoration Armour Museum, will recreate the sights and sounds of World War II. At the Museum of American Armor at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road/Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fee: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, $5 for children and vet50+ erans. Info: 516-454-8265.

May 11 Presidential Lecture: Michelle D. Bernard. Bernard will present her lecture, “More Than Single-Issue Voters: How Today’s American Women are Changing the Face of Feminism.” At SJC Long Island, The Muriel & Virginia Pless Center for Performing Arts, O’Connor Hall, Patchogue; 7 p.m.

Free. RSVP: 631-687-2645; virwin@sjcny.edu.

May 12 Maritime Walking Tour of Sag Harbor. With Tony Garro. Meet on the Long Wharf by the windmill in Sag Harbor; 11 a.m. Fee: $10 for non-members.

To register please call the Museum at 631-283-2494.

May 21 Volunteer to Help Remove Japanese Knotweed. Call the Garvies Point Museum & Preserve, 50 Barry Drive, Glen Cove at 516-571-8010 for more info.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

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WANTED! Senior Interns 5

0+ LifeStyles, Long Island’s premier monthly publication serving Seniors and Boomers, is looking for Senior Interns and Ambassadors to help us better serve our readership in Nassau and Suffolk counties by providing us with local news, local information and assisting at special events.

If you are interested in volunteering with us, our requirements are that you must live in Nassau or Suffolk counties and must be 50-years old and over.

This is a volunteer position and is extraordinarily flexible. It will allow you to maintain your schedule and availability.

It is expected that most of the work will be in your local community, but all accepted applicants will be required to attend a training workshop.

www.50plusNY.com

A limited number of Senior Internships are open in the following areas: Community Outreach: Keeping 50+ LifeStyles advised about what is happening in your community.

Writers/Photographers: Covering events and topics of interest to our readership.

Marketing and Sales: Assisting the marketing and sales staff.

Special Events: Attending special events, fairs, etc., as an ambassador for 50+ LifeStyles.

Please send a letter (or e-mail) telling us why you should be selected to be a Senior Intern. Please include your background and personal interests and feel free to be creative with why you wish to join our team.

Send your application to: Publisher, 50+ LifeStyles, 146 S. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail it to: Frank@50plusny.com.

50+

Hidin’ Harry’s Ba-a-a-ck!

Due to popular demand, Hidin’ Harry is back! He looks like this and he’s hiding somewhere in this issue.

Find him, tell us where he is and win a pair of theater tickets. We’ll pick two winners. Send your answer to: Hidin’ Harry, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail Editor@50plusny.com.

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 ART DIRECTOR Gregory A Jones ext. 232 DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS Gene Pritz 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 5 National Awards

LifeStyles Sudoku Solution from page 16

LifeStyles Puzzle Solution from page 16

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Copy April 2016 Long Island Edition • Vol. 41 #6

WANTED!

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

Senior Interns

See page 5

Helen Mirren Has Played Them All

By Suzy Maloy

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cclaimed British actress Helen Mirren has played all sorts of royalty, not to mention a noted police detective, a mastermind criminal and all sorts of Shakespearean characters. The versatile actress now plays a British colonel, who has to make a moral decision of whether to order a drone airstrike on a suspected terrorist hideout in Kenya, in the nail-biting political thriller Eye in the Sky. The suspenseful drama (most of it takes place in real time over the course of nearly two hours), in which the British and American military have determined that a deadly pair of suicide bombers are planning to carry out an attack in a public place that could kills dozens of innocent civilians.

Writer Guy Hibbert initially wrote Mirren’s character for a man, but South African director Gavin Hood pictured the authoritative Mirren in the role of the British military officer, who patiently

Grandparenting: Hangin’ With Older G-Kids

Be Creative Story page 9

FREE

TAX

Preparation Service

Story page 14

Creative Cups is Back!

Continued on page 20

and most Libraries in Nassau/Suffolk.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

Senior Citizens Must Be Aware of

Financial Scams

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Across the County

Story page 18

ax day is fast approaching, and unfortunately, this is the time that scam artists are working overtime to get ahold of your hard earned money. Scammers use this as an opportunity to pose as the IRS or other collection agencies.

Story page 6

April Events ............................ Page 3 Classified Ads .......................... Page 22 Veterans News ....................... Page 12 Crosswords ............................Page 23 Around The Towns................ Page 16 Sudoku................................... Page 23

Story page 10

Healthy Lifestyle Tips for 2016

Coming in the May Issue Legal, Financial, Older Americans Month, Stroke Awareness, Healthy Vision Month

Some especially useful car tech things Story page 21

6

Around The Towns...

Send your news items to Frank@50plusny.com

Joe Fazio, Mastic Beach’s unofficial farmer, celebrated his 100th birthday at the Mastic Beach Property Owner’s Association on Saturday, March 19, 2016. Legislator Kate Browning (WFShirley) joined family, friends and other elected officials to recognize Joe’s amazing achievement and to reflect on his accomplished life.

On April 3, Supervisor Ed Romaine attended Brookhaven Town Fire Police Association’s Annual Installation Brunch, held at Majestic Gardens in Rocky Point. He also presented Certificates of Appreciation from the Town Board to the outgoing officers and swore in the new incoming officers.

Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker joined with fellow Nassau County Legislators Steve Rhoads and Dennis Dunne, Sr. and attended the United Veterans Organization Testimonial Dinner honoring outgoing UVO President Rick Gales. Pictured are UVO Member William Harms, Rhoads, Gales, Walker, Legislator Dunne, and UVO Member Connie Steers.

Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, presented Reggie Peterson with his Purple Heart and Bronze Star earned but never received in WWII. Mr. Peterson is one of the last living WWII veterans on Long Island.

Nassau County Legislator Birnbaum honored Great Neck Breast Cancer Coalition President Laura Weinberg on March 16 at the 17th Annual Trailblazers Awards Ceremony at the Nassau County Legislative Chamber in Mineola

Town Announces Pre-Season Resident Parking Sticker Sale Discounted stickers available until May 23 he Town of Brookhaven Department of Parks, Recreation and Sport, and Cultural Resources has announced that the pre-season sale of the 2016 Seasonal Resident Parking Sticker at selected locations throughout the town has begun. The price of the 2016 Seasonal Parking Sticker is $15 and is good for the entire 2016 season. If purchased before Monday, May 23rd, the sticker cost will be $10. Resident Senior Citizen, Handicapped and Veteran’s seasonal stickers will be $5 throughout the season.

Stickers are available at the Town of Brookhaven Parks and Recreation Office in Centereach, the Henrietta Acampora Recreation Center in Blue Point, the Port Jefferson Marina Annex in Port Jefferson, the Rose Caracappa Senior Citizens Center in Mt. Sinai, and at the Center Moriches Library in Center Moriches (until May 8).

For more information including hours and directions, please visit the Town of Brookhaven website at www.brookhaven.org or call 451-TOWN or 451-6101.

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50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

8

Veterans

News

OPED

BY CONGRESSMAN LEE ZELDIN NY01 THE FIGHT TO EXPAND ADULT DAY CARE

S

upporting our nation’s veterans is an essential responsibility that we all share. Our service members repeatedly put their lives in danger to ensure our security. While overseas, these brave men and women are exposed to hardships and trauma, and when they come home, many return with the physical and mental wounds of war. Despite various care options for veterans, their choices are often limited, and can come at a great expense.

Service members who are 70-percent-or-more disabled from a service connected injury often require significant assistance from others in order to carry out basic everyday tasks. In many instances, veterans must rely on family members for assistance, creating many financial and emotional hardships. Alternatively, some veterans, without the proper support system, may even be forced to rely on the assistance of trained medical professionals and reside in institutionalized facilities for daily assistance, which also comes at a great expense. Veterans in these facilities often spend significant sums of money each day just to be enrolled, and these expenses can be expected to span the remainder of the veteran’s life in many cases.

While alternative options currently exist, accessing these services, however, can often be very difficult. One such program that is currently available is Adult Day Health Care; a daily program for disabled veterans who need extra assistance and special attention in their day to day lives. Adult Day Health Care programs provide disabled veterans and their families with a high quality alternative to nursing home care, providing quality outpatient services for those suffering from debilitating illnesses or disabilities. These programs provide a range of services from daily activities, such as bathing, to full medical services, like physical therapy. The focus of the program is on improving disabled veterans’ quality of life through an individualized plan specific to their needs, while still allowing them to maintain their independence. Not only does Adult Day Health Care benefit the veteran, but it also benefits the family members and caregivers as well. This model allows caregivers to tend to their day-to-day activities without worrying about the well-being of their spouse, child or friend.

This option allows the veteran to lead a much more fulfilling life, and also helps keep families together and strong.

Adult Day Health Care, however, is only offered currently at two facilities in the United States. Long Island is fortunate to be one of the two locations, with a facility right here in Suffolk County at Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook, but this program could easily be offered at any of the 153 State Veterans Homes (SVH) across the country. Since the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not currently cover the cost of participation in this program, the expense must be paid out of pocket by

Congratulations to our Hidin’ Harry winners from the April issue, Paula Klugman of Plainview and John Bonk of Blue Point. You’ll both be receiving a pair of theater tickets in the mail.

As for the rest of our contestants, the game goes on!

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.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

the veteran and their family, which significantly limits the number of veterans who can enroll.

In an effort to address this, and expand access to care for our heroes, I recently introduced bipartisan legislation in Congress, H.R. 2460, which would ensure that 70% or more service connected disabled veterans are able to receive Adult Day Health Care at no cost to the veteran and their family by defining the program as a reimbursable treatment option through the VA. This would expand this great option of care for our veterans.

It must be a top priority of Congress to ensure that all veterans on Long Island and across the country receive the proper treatment and care they deserve. My bill, which has strong bipartisan support in Congress, with over 45 co-sponsors including the entire Long Island Congressional Delegation, is just one more way that we can expand care for veterans. These brave men and women left the comforts of home to serve this nation and fight for our freedoms.

Editor’s Note: At a press conference on April 7, 2016, at the Long Island State Veterans Home in Stony Brook, Zeldin announced the introduction of bipartisan legislation in Congress (H.R. 2460) to expand disabled veterans’ access to Adult Day Health Care; a daily program for disabled veterans who need extra assistance and special attention in their day-to-day lives. Congressman Zeldin also announced that on April 20, 2016, the House Veterans Affairs Committee will be holding a legislative hearing on his bill.)

Congressman Lee Zeldin, an Army veteran who continues to serve today as a Major in the Army Reserves, represents the First Congressional District of New York. In Congress, two of Rep. Zeldin’s committee assignments are Veterans Affairs and Foreign Affairs.

50+

B

ethpage Federal Credit Union, and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, are very pleased to announce that the Thunderbirds return to headline the Bethpage Federal Air Show at Jones Beach.

Enjoy a fun filled day, come early and don’t forget your sunscreen. For rain updates check 1100am broadcasting live or call – 516-785-1600. Backpacks will be checked, don’t forget you chairs or blanket.

Performers for 2016: -35 Lightning II, the US Army Golden Knights, Royal Canadian Air Force Snowbirds, the Air Combat Command F-16 Viper Demonstration Team, the American Airpower Museum Warbirds, the Breitling Jet Team, David Windmiller, the GEICO Skytypers, the Screamin’ Sasquatch, Matt Chapman, Sean Tucker, and the SUNY Farmingdale Aerospace Farmingdale State College Flying Rams. On display: NY National Guard Military Vehicles.

May 28-29. Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach State Park.

Noon to 5 p.m. at Jones Beach State Park, Ocean Parkway, Wantagh. There is a $10 parking fee. Info: 516-785-1600; bethpageairshow.com.

AL ARM L AW

(cont inued f rom cover)

the reason for having to pay to register their systems when they have had no false alarms.

In an interview in mid-April, Suffolk County Deputy Presiding Officer Rob Calarco outlined the genesis of the legislation. “The police department was seeking to develop a system to decrease the large number of false alarms which have been increasing and resulting in a burden of (law enforcement’s) time and resources that should be directed on emergency calls,” Calarco said in an interview this week. According to county statistics, an estimated 90,000 false alarms were reported in 2014.

From a fiscal standpoint, Calarco said the county is projecting the new program will garner an additional $7 million for 2016 resulting from registrations and fines which will be funneled into the SCPD’s Alarm Management Program budget.

“People are trying to protect themselves, and now the county is hitting the very people they’re trying to protect” - Frank C. Trotta, Publisher, 50+ Lifestyles But the new legislation has some county residents questioning the creating of the new law. “People are trying to protect themselves, and now the county is hitting the very people they’re trying to protect,” said Frank Trotta, a lifelong county resident and publisher of 50 + Lifestyles. Calling the new law “a money grab,” Trotta continued, “I get it — Suffolk County needs the money. But our businesses are getting burnt and our seniors are getting burnt; these are false alarms, and they should be targeting repeat offenders and get these people — not our senior citizens who are finding it hard enough to make ends meet.”

A senior resident of Hauppauge, who brought this matter to 50+’s attention — and requested anonymity — has owned a home security system for the past 27 years and she learned about the new law through a small insert in her March bill, which she received from her home security system company. Of all the friends, acquaintances and business professionals the 70-plus senior has spoken with, less than a handful had received correspondence from the county notifying them of the new charge.

“I received no literature from Suffolk County or the police department saying that I now have to register and pay a fee for something I’ve had for 27 years,” she said. “I am not happy, and I am (livid) because they went about it the wrong way.” She maintains lawmakers should, “go after the people who have continuous false alarms.”

“There have been so many false alarms so police are not exactly rushing to these calls, and people have been complaining about the response time,” Calarco said. “These calls had not been seen as a priority which is a consequence of the situation.” Calarco said Nassau County and Suffolk’s five East End townships, which have their own police departments, have implemented successful alarm system registration laws. “Homeowners have to make a choice to participate,” Calarco said. “They can register and they would be allowed two false alarms in one year. Conversely,” Calarco added, “if you do not register and you do get false alarms you will get fined on the first false alarm.” Calarco noted advanced camera technology allows for businesses and homeowners to view their properties from any location to determine whether the alarm is inadvertently sounded.

“The owner would then notify their alarm company and tell them not to trigger the alarm (to central station),” Calarco explained.

Meanwhile, Suffolk County Legislator Kate Browning, who will be meeting with the industry and constituents to examine the pros and cons of the legislation as written, is seeking to amend the new law to ease its implementation. “Some residents are questioning the law,” Calarco confirmed, noting that over the coming months county lawmakers will be evaluating the program’s inaugural year of implementation.

Trotta asserts a compromise should be reached: “Between the economy,

9 pensions and social security, our seniors are struggling. “There should be provisions within the law where if someone is a three-time offender their fines should be doubled and repeat offenders should be hit hard. And,” Trotta added, “the law should be written in a way that it allows cops to write tickets at the scene.”

The penalties are as follows: Residents are being charged a $50 registration fee with $25 annual renewals. Non-residential structures will be charged $100 registration fees with $50 annual renewals. Residents and merchants who are registered will not be fined for the first two false alarms in a calendar year, but will receive written warnings. Residents and merchants who are not registered will be fined for the first false alarm. For third false alarms, residents will be fined $100 and businesses will be fined $150, both increasing to $500 by the tenth.

Residents who fail to comply with the law and register their security systems will be fined $100 on the first false alarm increasing by $50 increments for each subsequent false alarm. Non-residential buildings, which are not registered, will receive a $200 fine on the first false alarm and will reach $750 by the ninth and 50+ tenth years.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

10

GRANDPARENTS &

Grandkids

The Science Project

Dueling Stoves

By Gary P. Joyce

H

aving been through the ol’ school science projects with your own kids, you’d think that it was a once-in-lifetime occurrence … but — naturally — grandkids change all that, and give you another shot at getting it right.

Grandson Travis approached me. “I want to do a science project for school.” We tossed a few things back and forth, until I remembered a conversation I’d had with some buddies. “How about making your own salt?”

His blank stare said it all, so I elaborated and, since the project meant he’d have to go in the water in March, and he’d get to start a campfire, he was game, regardless.

A few days later saw us off to the beach. Travis hauled water as I watched and photographed … well, documented is more in line with a science

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

project, I guess.

The weekend came, we borrowed grandma’s biggest pot (“I need a new one, anyway,” she mumbled) as we headed out to start the fire.

Travis poured the charcoal, lit the fire, gathered wood, and we set a gallon pot of water in the flames. And watched. And waited. And watched as the fire burned down causing nary a bubble.

Plan B reared its head. While I dug out the trusty propane camp stove, my wife — quite the Girl Scout apparently — got Travis to collecting more wood, and before I could get things going they had quite a fire burning. Humph!

Travis’ science project had turned into the Challenge of the Dueling Stoves. Do you know how long it takes to boil off a gallon of water? A long damn time, that’s how long. Travis’ interest waxed and wane, as did grandma’s, but some

one had to make sure we didn’t set the neighborhood afire. I sat there long enough, stirring the damn water, that I hurt myself.

Anyway, Travis learned that yes, you can make salt from saltwater (we even used it for my mashed potatoes that weekend).

He also learned that as a propane tank discharges it freezes and your tongue can stick to it. He learned how to make a fire with charcoal, wood and propane, and how to keep a wood fire burning. He cleaned all the twigs and branches off the lawn, learned how heavy water was, discovered that his waders leaked, and that stirring a pot is about as boring as, well, watching a pot boil. But he did get a pretty cool, if not awardwinning science project out of the entire deal.

Besides, it beats making a volcano ... or a ten50+ nis ball solar system ... all to hell!

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FINANCIAL & PREPL ANNING

Retirement

Checkup

By Michael Hartzman

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K – so you have been retired for several years, the stock market has been booming and all your checks keep on coming. Congratulations.

That said, it is important to review your retirement plan every few years to make sure your long range plans are still on track. Not only is it important to make sure your investments are properly allocated, it is critical to ask yourself the following questions: 1. Did you factor into your plan that it is more likely that your medical costs will continue to rise on an annual basis? You need to look at what

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

you were spending on deductibles and co-pays when you first retired compared to this year.

2. Are you prepared for any major expenditure such as a new car or fixing a leaky roof?

3. Since you retired has the financial condition of your children or grandchildren worsened? Have you been forced to step in to help them financially because of a job loss, divorce or medical condition?

4. Have you been lulled into the belief that inflation is a thing of the past? While we have been fortunate to have had very little inflation over the past few years and the price of oil is 50% lower than in the last few years, economic factors can change quickly causing prices of goods and services to rise.

5. Finally, ask yourself if your retirement plans are going as you hoped.

Are you spending more than you budgeted for? Have you taken up an expensive hobby? Are you going to more shows or playing more golf? All of that is wonderful if you can afford it. However, if you are stretching your budget or living for today then you might want to take a step back and make sure you are not running out of money.

Most financial advisors have access to fairly sophisticated planning and forecasting tools. They can help you factor in inflation, the rate of return on your investment and the speed at which you are spending your money. All of this will help you see if you are staying on track.

Remember, just because you no longer have a job it doesn’t mean that 50+ you don’t have work to do.

Michael Hartzman is a principle of Bristol Financial Services, 500 N. Broadway, Suite 238, Jericho, NY 11753; 516-349-5555; www.bristol-financial.com.

FINANCIAL & PREPL ANNING

The Elder Law Minute Powers of Attorney: Trust Your Agent

By Ronald A. Fatoullah, Esq. and Debby Rosenfeld, Esq. hen offering legal advice, one of the first things we recommend to our clients is that they must have a well-drafted power of attorney. A power of attorney is a document whereby the person signing the power (the “principal”) authorizes another person or persons (the “agent(s)”) to sign and act on his or her behalf with respect to financial matters. Having a power of attorney is imperative in case an individual should become incapacitated in the future. At such time, the individual may no longer be able to oversee his own finances, and having appointed an agent to do so will allow for the continuity of asset and income management without interruption. A power of attorney can also eliminate the need for a court appointed guardian should the principal become completely incapacitated.

When preparing a power of attorney, a great deal of thought must be given to who should be appointed as agent. The New York State General Obligations Law dictates that the appointed agent has a fiduciary responsibility to the principal.

This means that the agent must always have the principal’s best interest at heart and must act in a prudent way that benefits the principal.

Nonetheless, the power of attorney does offer broad powers and an agent is given a large degree of leverage. When an individual becomes incapacitated, the transfer of such person’s assets might be necessary. Complex planning may be involved in order to preserve the person’s assets. Accordingly, a carefully drafted power of attorney should be extremely comprehensive, allowing the agent to do extensive planning, if necessary. In appointing an agent, the critical element is one

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13 of trust. If the principal trusts the appointed agent, it is not as important for him to understand the intricacies and nuances of advanced Medicaid planning. He can simply rest assured that since the document contains extensive powers, the appointed agent will be able to act on his behalf, should the need arise.

It is worth mentioning a news story in connection with this discussion. In 2007, Nicholas DeTommaso, then his in early 80s, appointed Pamela Becker, age 62, as his agent under a power of attorney. Two years later, Ms. Becker used the power of attorney to arrange for Mr. DeTommaso to legally adopt her. Mr. DeTommaso died one month after the adoption and Ms. Becker took over the lease to his Long Island City apartment for which he was paying $100 a month.

The State Division of Housing and Community Renewal ruled that Ms. Becker was not entitled to the apartment because she only had lived there as a family member for 22 days before Mr. DeTommaso’s death and not the two years required by New York State. Ms. Becker refused to move out and has been fighting this determination, claiming she is a family member.

This story illustrates how vital it is to appoint a trustworthy party as agent; one who will not use the form to advance and promote his or her own financial interests. An experienced elder law practitioner will be able to guide you in the prepa50+ ration of a power of attorney as well as other important legal documents.

Ronald A. Fatoullah, Esq. is the principal of Ronald Fatoullah & Associates, a law firm that concentrates in elder law, estate planning, Medicaid planning, guardianships, estate administration, trusts, wills, and real estate. Debby Rosenfeld, Esq. is a senior staff attorney at the firm. The law firm can be reached at 718-261-1700, 516-4664422, or toll free at 1-877-ELDER-LAW or 1-877-ESTATES. Mr. Fatoullah is also the co-founder of JR Wealth Advisors, LLC. The wealth management firm can be reached at 516-466-3300 or 800-353-3775.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

14 FINANCIAL & PREPL ANNING

Babylon and Huntington

Senior Citizen Advocate Schedules

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egislator Lou D’Amaro (D-Huntington Station) is alerting local residents about the Suffolk County Office for the Aging Babylon and Huntington Spring 2016 Senior Advocate Schedules. 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 appropriate community agencies. Senior Advocates meet with interested and needy seniors aged 60 and over at regularly-scheduled times in specific locations throughout the community.

This spring, they will be visiting the following locations in the Town of Babylon: • Deer Park Library, 44 Lake Avenue, Deer Park: Friday, May 20, 9 – 11 a.m.

• Lindenhurst Library, 1 Lee Avenue, Lindenhurst: Monday, June 27, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

• North Amityville Nutrition Center, 48-C Cedar Road, Amityville: Tuesdays, May 3 & June 7, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

• Rainbow Center, 293 Buffalo Avenue, Lindenhurst: Wednesdays, May 4 & June 1, 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

• Spangle Drive Center, 483 Spangle Drive, North Babylon: Mondays, May 2 & June 6, 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

•Tanner Park Nutrition Center,#2 Tanner Park, Copiague: Wednesdays, May 18 & June 22, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

•West Babylon Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon: Thursday, May 26, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

• Wyandanch Nutrition Center, 28 Wyandanch Avenue, Wyandanch: Fridays, May 13, June 3 & June 17, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

In Huntington, they will be visiting the following: • Huntington Library, 338 Main Street, Huntington: Monday, May 16 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

• Huntington Senior Nutrition Center, 423 Park Avenue, Huntington: Wednesdays, May 25 & June 29 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

• Paumanack Village I & II, 650 Paumanack Village Drive, Greenlawn: Tuesday, June 21 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

• Paumanack Village V & VI, 100 Adriatic Drive, Melville: Thursdays, May 26 & June 23 from 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Advocates assist with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Progra.m. (SNAP – formerly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings Program and Heating Emergency Assistance Program (HEAP) applications. They also can provide information on Medicare including preventive care services available under the Affordable Care Act, as well as answer questions and make addi50+ tional recommendations and referrals.

For more information about available services, or for directions to any of the locations, please call the Suffolk County Office for the Aging at 631-8538200. Appointments are encouraged but drop-ins are also welcome.

FINANCIAL & PREPL ANNING

Variations on Gift Giving For Your Spouse

By Donald J. McCormick

T

here are plenty of occasions that may justify a gift for your spouse: birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, Valentine’s Day or just because.

If you’re feeling like there are too many gifts being exchanged, discuss the following ways to simplify the giving with your spouse.

1. Be clear and selective. Start by having a conversation with your spouse about your gift preferences. If you really want (or need) something, whether a gift or going out to dinner, and hate to be disappointed, say so.

Or if you prefer not to receive gifts, make that known as well. You also can think about reducing the number of gifts you exchange or the occasions when gifts are expected. For example, you could agree to give one gift at each occasion or exchange cards instead. If you like the tradition of opening a gift under the tree or receiving something special on Valentine’s Day, agree to stick with tradition and 0try not to go overboard.

2. Give experiences. Experiences, such as an activity, trip or a day spent together, could be even more meaningful than a physical gift. Consider

15 recreating your first date, checking an item off your spouse’s bucket list, or making a day of doing his or her favorite activities.

3. Give gifts that keep giving. Consider making a donation in your spouse’s honor to a favorite nonprofit organization or signing up for a service project. Many organizations will allow you to tailor the project to what your spouse likes to do best if they know about the occasion in advance.

4. Complete your to-do list. Is there a task or two that your spouse wishes you took care of last week, or last year? Purchase the items needed to finish the basement remodel, etc., then follow-through on the commitment, aiming to finish in time for the special occasion.

5. Give the gift of time. Does your spouse have a “guilty pleasure” they never seem to make time for? Allow him or her to indulge in uninterrupted time to catch up on their favorite TV show, read a magazine or book, take a nap, etc. while you take care of their responsibilities.

6. Buy for value. You can be practical and lavish at the same time by buying gifts for one another that have the potential to retain their value or appreciate over time. Fine jewelry, art, furniture, a collector’s item and even stock are thoughtful gifts that are assets in their own right.

7. Be flexible. Prescribed gift giving can stunt the fun in a relationship.

Leave room for spontaneity as long as you have good intentions and sufficient discretionary income.

Donald J. McCormick, CFP and a Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Bohemia, NY. To contact him, call 631- 582-9770 ext: 306, e-mail him at Donald.j.mccormick@ampf.com or go to his website 50+ Donaldjmccormick.com.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

16

ENTERTAINMENT

CROSSWORDS

Across 1 Vegans don’t eat it 5 Annoy 8 A beach shoe 12 Connects the tires often 13 Popular housepet 14 Many were this at 33 down 15 Sixth letter of Greek alphabet 16 Completely confined 18 A Hudson tributary 20 Greek god of the sun 21 Aware of 23 Greek goddess of dawn 24 A projecting parts of a fort 28 A headliner 31 Painting is one 32 Chased into the branches Down 1 A convoluted path 2 One time spouses 3 Second highest voice 4 It’s usually whistling 5 Bad winter weather occurrence 6 Went for office 7 Engrave 8 Latino gang members (slang) 9 Common electronic component 10 Nabisco treat 11 You can mail things this way 17 Robert E. 19 A military command 22 Go a step better 24 You might pass one while attempting to pass it

(Solution on page 4) 34 Ovum pluralized 35 Bore out 37 Slain feloniously 39 A side-to-side movement 41 Plead to 42 A king may have one 45 Response to a naval officer 49 Believes in rule by one of 50, over 50 by one 51 Shakespearean ruler 52 Girlfriend in France 53 Turn an animal right 54 Annoys 55 Sandwich choice 56 Assist 57 Medical measurement 25 Exist 26 A fore-aft rigged canvas 27 A blade that cuts bread well 29 Hail (Latin) 30 Pretty cool, neat, etc. (slang) 33 June 6 once 36 Known for Barbie and Hot Wheels, etc.

38 Covers the iris 40 Small 42 Passe ruler 43 Prefix for sphere 44 Capital of Latvia 46 Musical prefix for smith 47 Himalayan bovines 48 Gaelic 50 Third largest baleen mammal

(Solution on page 4)

18 ENTERTAINMENT

The Gateway Produces...

A Blockbuster Season of Broadway Musicals

F

or 66 years, The Gateway Performing Arts Center of Suffolk County has been one of Long Island’s only regional theatres producing Broadway-caliber musicals starring paid, professional actors. From casting, directing, set design and construction, to lighting, stage crew, costume and makeup, The Gateway employs the top professionals within their field to build full-scale musical productions from the ground up.

Now in its 67th season, The Gateway expertly demonstrates the transformative power of live theatre through five popular musicals on the Main Stage: Anything Goes, Million Dollar Quartet, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and The Rocky Horror Show. The season also includes two special events: Dance to the Movies– a ballroom extravaganza featuring professionals from ABC TV’s Dancing with the Stars (Chelsie Hightower, Lacey Schwimmer, and Jonathan Roberts); and Legends in Concert — a pop music revue featuring Vegas-style tribute acts: David Bowie, Abba, Justin Timberlake, Lady Gaga, Adele, and Whitney Houston.

“We’re back in action this summer offering high-quality, Broadway entertainment right in your backyard in Bellport Village and Patchogue Village,” says The Gateway spokesman, Scot Allan. “We’re thrilled to welcome back, by popular demand, our good friend, Emmy Award-winning actress Sally Struthers who stars in our opening show, Anything Goes. This show will also welcome a newcomer to The Gateway, Andrea McArdle — Broadway’s original Annie!

These two leading ladies are sure to wow our audiences in Anything Goes which features the tap dancing classics of Cole Porter.”

Theatergoers can save up to $15 per ticket on these shows and special events by purchasing a 3-4-5 Show Discount Plan. It’s easy — you pick the date, you pick the times, and you pick the number of shows.

In addition to the Main Stage performances, The Gateway also produces high-quality Children’s Theatre productions throughout the summer. This season’s shows include My Son Pinocchio: Geppetto’s Musical Tale, The Wizard of Oz, and Broadway Illusionist, The Amazing Max.

WANTED! Senior Interns

A limited number of Senior Internships are open in the following areas: Community Outreach: Keeping 50+ LifeStyles advised about what is happening in your community.

Writers/Photographers: Covering events and topics of interest to our readership.

Marketing and Sales: Assisting the marketing and sales staff.

Special Events: Attending special events, fairs, etc., as an ambassador for 50+ LifeStyles.

Please send a letter (or e-mail) telling us why you should be selected to be a Senior Intern. Please include your background and personal interests and feel free to be creative with why you wish to join our team.

Send your application to: Publisher, 50+ LifeStyles, 146 S. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail it to: Frank@50plusny.com.

See page 5 for more details.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

For tickets and information ... Box Office: 631-286-1133Website: www.thegateway.org Address: 215 South Country Rd., Bellport, NY 11713.

The Gateway strives to enrich a wide range of communities with quality theatrical experiences through diverse arts, entertainment and educational programs. It endeavors to serve these communities in a fiscally responsible manner, to provide affordable resources to schools and nonprofit organizations, and to ensure the future of the theatrical arts in the Long Island region. 50+

19

ENTERTAINMENT DEAL ME IN

By Mark Pilarski

Can a Computer Beat a Game That’s Built on Lost Bets?

Dear Mark: A book review in the Wall Street Journal appears to claim that a computer can win at roulette. In the comments, someone talked about the assertion that the earlier spins change the surface so that subsequent spins aren't entirely random; but this seems a bit far-fetched. What do you think?

— Bob H.

T

he book you referenced, The Perfect Bet: How Science and Math Are Taking the Luck out of Gambling, by Adam Kucharski, is a collection of ideas, facts, anecdotes, theories and stories that convey how betting relates to science – and vice versa.

Concerning roulette, Kucharski believes “beating roulette requires collecting a vast body of information about that wheel, something that computers are better at doing than people.”

I can buy that. The world’s best at chess have lost to computers since 1997 (Garry Kasparov).

The computer would have to track the roulette dealer’s rhythm of spinning the wheel and launching the ball to determine if the dealer consciously, or unconsciously, targets a given number or section of the wheel.

I believe a dealer cannot deliberately, or accidentally, target and pocket a specific number.

Besides, casino operators have plenty of security procedures in place to preserve the integrity of the game. Additionally, all dealers are trained to either speed up or slow down both the wheel and ball delivery before each spin to avoid what’s called wheel clocking.

Regarding the comment that “earlier spins change the surface so that subsequent spins aren't entirely random,” well, that could fall under a predictive system that works to exploit flaws in the equipment.

Centered on a biased wheel, the belief here is that some wheels may have a physical or mechanical defect that provides a non-random distribution of wins. In theory, a mechanical flaw is a possibility; but in practice, it miscarries, mainly because constant maintenance and observation would catch any large bias, resulting in the table’s closure. As for applying a physical or a statistical prediction via artificial intelligence, that’s another matter.

If players were to use any external device like a hand-held computer to assist them in beating the game of roulette and happened to be caught, it would probably lead to room, food and beverage as a ward of the state for no less than a minimum two-year stay.

50+ 50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

Me & My Shadow

Grandson Jason, age 2, with his grandpa, Mark Donahue of Center Moriches watching Toy Story on Easter Sunday.

HAVE A PICTURE OF YOU AND YOUR GRANDCHILD? Send it to: Me and My Shadow, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713, or e-mail to: editor@50plusny.com and put Shadow in the “Subject” line.

TECH TALK 21

Q:

Where All Your Technology Questions are Answered — by Nick Radesca, SeniorNet

What is Uber and how does it work?

Uber is an on-demand car service that allows people to use their smartphones to request taxi rides from Uber’s fleet of privately owned unmarked cars.

When the app is opened for the first time, new customers are required to establish an Uber account and supply some personal data including the charge card.

A:

Selecting Pickup Location Thereafter, when launching the app, a map is displayed with a pin plotted at your location and a SET PICKUP LOCATION sign with the number of minutes until pickup. If you want the pick up to be elsewhere, you can change the pickup point by either typing in another address or moving the pickup pin.

Uber Car Types Uber offers different types of cars. In my area there are four levels of cars offered: uberX,

uberXL, Black and uberSUV. The least expensive are X and XL cars, which are everyday cars and SUVs. The X cars can seat four riders while the more expensive XL seat six-plus. Increasing in cost are Black cars which are high-end sedans seating up to four riders while the largest and most expensive are highend SUVs which seat six or more riders.

With a car selected tap SET PICKUP LOCATION and a confirmation screen appears.

Fare Estimate When tapping the FARE ESTIMATE button in the lower left corner of the confirmation screen, the next screen asked for my trip destination. It then displays a fare price range — plus the tip. If the traffic is light, you should be charged lower price.

WANTED! Senior Interns

A limited number of Senior Internships are open in the following areas: Community Outreach: Keeping 50+ LifeStyles advised about what is happening in your community.

Writers/Photographers: Covering events and topics of interest to our readership.

Marketing and Sales: Assisting the marketing and sales staff.

Special Events: Attending special events, fairs, etc., as an ambassador for 50+ LifeStyles.

Please send a letter (or e-mail) telling us why you should be selected to be a Senior Intern. Please include your background and personal interests and feel free to be creative with why you wish to join our team.

Send your application to: Publisher, 50+ LifeStyles, 146 S. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail it to: Frank@50plusny.com.

See page 5 for more details.

The Ride Upon tapping the REQUEST uberX bar at the bottom of the confirmation screen (that shows the destination), the ride is ordered and the following happens: •Uber sends a confirming text message to your smartphone indicating the wait time. This provides your driver’s name, rating, photo, type of car he/she is driving and license plate number.

•At the end of the ride the app displays the fare.

Payment is handled automatically, with no tip required. You just get out of the car and wave goodbye. (There is a $10 cancellation fee).

•After the ride, the app asks you to rate the driver on a scale of 1 to 5 (politeness, safety, cleanliness). Similarly, the driver rates you from 50+ 1 to 5 (politeness).

Hofstra’s Outstanding Women in Law for 2016!

W

e are pleased to announce that Nancy Burner, Esq., and Robin Burner Daleo, Esq., have been selected by Hofstra University School of Law and the Center for Children, Families and the Law as Outstanding Women in Law for 2016.

The Outstanding Women in Law distinction honors those who serve as role models for the next generation of women lawyers and judges. Women attorneys are represented in the highest echelons of the legal profession and the judiciary. Nancy and Robin were honored for this award at the 1st Annual Long Island Outstanding Women in Law luncheon held on April 5, 2016. 50+

Nancy Burner, Esq.

Robin Burner Daleo, Esq.

Hidin’ Harry is Back!

Harry is hiding somewhere in this issue. Find him and tell us where he is and you can win a pair of theater tickets. We’ll pick two winners out of every issue.

Find Hidin’ Harry and send your answer to: Hidin’ Harry, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail Editor@50plusny.com.

50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

22

It’s Good to be Queen

By Dolores Hofman

I

’m still on Cloud Nine, in disbelief, and its only been a week-and-a-half since I was crowned Ms. New York Senior America 2016. It all happened so quickly; from the very first call in early November to the State Director, Marleen Schuss, to the auditions shortly thereafter, until I received my letter of acceptance as a contestant in the 2016 pageant.

Talent is one of the four categories that the contestants are judged on. I took Marleen’s advice and started practicing a dance routine. I had procrastinated about getting myself a personal trainer for a long time, but as soon as I knew I was a contestant I did just that.

My health club was running a special, so I signed up for 12 sessions at the exact time that I had twelve weeks to go before the big day! All my mental and physical hard work sure paid off.

I wear my crown and sash proudly

whenever I deem appropriate. When folks see me, both friends and strangers, their faces light up and I’m usually asked if they could take a photo of or with me. It makes me so happy to make others happy. One friend, who is 75 years of age, in excellent shape, said that being at the pageant was quite an awakening for her! She now realizes what she is capable of doing. It feels so good to have already begun being an inspiration to both young and old alike.

My husband Ed, who is the love of my life, was warned by a friend to “tighten his seat belt for this year’s ride”! When we got married (almost 48 years ago), I promised him that he would never have a boring day in his life. When asked about this he replied that he wished for just one boring day, once in a while!

Yes, it’s good to be queen, and I’m loving my Age of Elegance!

50+

COMING

SUMMER 2016!

The Long Island

Reserve Your Space NOW!

A comprehensive “How To” guide for Seniors and Caregivers

A Publication of

The comprehensive guide for Seniors and Caregivers

GREAT OPPORTUNITIES FOR: Health & Hospitals • Home Care Services Elder Law Insurance • Financial Planning • Care Management Dental & Eye Care • Hearing & Audiology • Pre-Planning Medical Supplies & Equipment • Hospice Laboratory Services • AssistedLiiving • Nursing Homes Wound Care/Rehabilitation • Specialized Medical Care

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Evelyn Aloisio (631) 286-0058 Ext.221 50+ LifeStyles May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com

On-Line Breast Cancer Survey

T

he Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program is seeking volunteers to participate in an online survey about their experiences in a breast cancer support group.

“The purpose of this study is to better understand the long-term benefits as identified by participants in breast cancer support groups,” says Erin Nau, LCSW, who is conducting the survey with the Breast Cancer Program’s director Hillary Rutter, LCSW. The survey will identify common reasons for attending a support group, their identified benefits, overall experiences and the long-term impact on their survivorship.

“Identifying these factors will allow breast cancer agencies to plan and facilitate more sustainable support groups,” says Rutter.

Anyone who is over the age of 18 and has ever been part of a breast cancer support group, past or present, may participate. All information is confidential. The survey should take five to ten minutes.

Those who would like to participate should visit the program’s website breast-cancer.adelphi.edu and click on the “HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD” banner, which will appear as one of the revolving banners at the top.

To reach the hotline, call 800-87750+ 8077. You are not alone.

516 822-9612 FOR TICKETS

CLASSIFIED ADS Place your 50+ Lifestyles Personal Ad today!

Email Barbara@50plusny.com PERSONALS Retired F, 60, Seeking 60ish male, retired, movies, dining, travel, concerts, swimming, bowling, casinos.

631-320-4149 SWF seeking a male or female (5570) for friendship. I enjoy dining out, movies. No smokers please. Call 516-658-1918.

PROF. SERVICES HOUSE CLEANER Nassau/Western Suffolk County. 20 Years experience. Call Barbara for estimate.

References. 631-532-9310.

Classifieds need to be submitted by the 15th.

GOLF Golf For Single Adults (GFSA) welcomes new members. We are a lively, fun-loving group of single, senior golfers who meet regularly for golf at courses on Long Island and tri-state area, as well as other social events.

Our golf season runs from April thru October. Join us at a general meeting (April 19 and third Tues of the other months) at Sweet Hollow Diner on Rt.110 in Melville for more details and the full 2016 schedule.

A complete description of GFSA, our newsletter and schedule of events are on our website at www.golfforsingleadults.com. You can email us at GFSALIGOLFNEWS@gmail.com or call our hotline 516-942-4228 to leave a message.

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

Name: Address: City: State:

Section: ❑ Real Estate ❑ For Rent ❑ Wanted

Zip:

❑ For Sale ❑ Prof. Serv ❑ Other

Phone:

Edition: ❑ Queens/NYC only ❑ LI only

Word Count:

❑ All Editions (double above rates) Number of Months you Wish to Run Ad

Payment: $ ❑ Check ❑ Visa

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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 May 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com