Capital District Senior Spotlight -February 2019

C a p i ta l D i s t r i c t

Spotlight

Senior A Spotlight News publication in cooperation with Senior Services of Albany

THE RESOURCE FOR SENIORS

The Remembering and Recognition Business cdseniorspotlight.com

FEBRUARY 2019

COMPLIMENTARY

NO. 2

Ted Williams Up To Bat Start Small This Year FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 1

Get Organized in the New Year!

D

e-clutter and de-stress with the help of Organize Senior Moves!

We can help with any project - small or large. Have a closet that is overflowing? Are you afraid to go down to your basement?

Do you long to park your car in the garage? Do you say no to overnight guests because your spare bedroom has become a catch-all? Organize Senior Moves can solve these problems and more! We are more than a company that downsizes - we can help you organize any room in your home.

Call for a free one-hour consultation

Before

After

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y p Hap s ’ e n i t n e l a V y a D from the staff at 108104_4

2 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019

Editor’s desk

Spinning a yarn My time spent with anchorman Dick Wood

W

e all live inside our own individual fish bowls. Who we allow in our lives and what we all experience resides within our respective fish bowls. What’s outside is only left to speculation.

That analogy, poorly crafted as it may be, remains true even from my perspective as a writer and editor for a weekly newspaper chain.

Even once I rekindled my journalism career seven years ago, I focused only on the subjects of each article on a piecemeal basis. The common denominator would be my effort to seek out inspiration. Many times, I was reaching out to a musician or writer, someone who was guided down his or her life’s path by a muse. I tasked myself with capturing that passion and sharing it with readers. With so many challenges in life making it difficult for us to dream, I thought I could play a part by helping shed light on a different path that would coax someone to pick themselves up and follow a dream. I never gave any thought that my path would cross with someone who once inspired me.

Such was the case a few months ago when one of our sales reps informed me that Dick Wood called to speak with me. Wood, of course, spent nearly 20 years as anchorman for News Channel 10. The mention of his name sent me back to memories of watching him and Marci Elliot as my mother prepared dinner before my father arrived home from work. That was the scene every weeknight.

An early habit our family developed shortly after moving to the Albany area from Texas in the early ‘80s. Wood called to say he enjoyed my writing, especially about a story I penned about Veteran’s Day. Wait. Dick Wood reads me?

Over the course of several weeks, and a few phone calls, we arranged a meeting that involved Gene Loparco. I wrote of Loparco in that Veteran’s Day story.

He does tireless work for the Operations: Please Remember Me program which honors the lives of local veterans who did not make it back home. Wood wanted to give Loparco an old newspaper dated Nov. 11, 1918 — Armistice Day, the end of World War I. Loparco’s grandfather fought in that war and Wood wanted to gift him with that paper.

I was treated with a few stories, one of which I shared in this month’s edition of Senior Spotlight. To say Wood has the gift for gab would be an understatement. I recall asking one, maybe two questions. But, what I found most amusing was to hear that the man I remember guiding his television audience with local and national news was just as helpless in finding his way through his early adulthood as I once was. Years apart we may be in age, and several years since I would habitually watch him from my living room floor, I found myself drawing a connection to the man that wasn’t there before.

I hope you enjoy reading this month’s feature.

Sincerely, Michael Hallisey, Managing Editor Spotlight Newspapers

February 2019 Features LifePath Living Center Grand Opening Williams comes up to bat

9 10-11

Columnists Social Security Corner

4

Veterans Next Door

7

Organize Senior Moves

8

Senior Services Clifton Park Senior Community Center 5 Niskayuna Senior Center

6

Albany JCC

6

Senior Services of Albany

9

Voorheesville Public Library

13

Bethlehem Public Library

14

publisher - John

McIntyre editor - Michael Hallisey advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Capital District Senior Spotlight is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request.

Capital District Senior Spotlight reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright © 2011 by Capital District Senior Spotlight.

No portion of Capital District Senior Spotlight may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC.

FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 3

Social Security Corner

Survivors benefits nfortunately, tragedy can strike without any warning. The loss of the family wage earner can be devastating both emotionally and financially. Social Security helps by providing income for the families of workers who die.

Some of the Social Security taxes you pay go toward survivors benefits for workers and their families. The value of the survivors benefits you have under Social Security may even be more than the value of your individual life insurance.

When you die, certain members of your family may be eligible for survivors benefits.

These include widows and

widowers (and divorced widows and widowers), children, and dependent parents.

Here are the people who can get survivors benefits based on your work: • Your widow or widower may be able to get full benefits at full retirement age.

The full retirement age for survivors is age 66 for people born in 1945-1956, with the full retirement age gradually increasing to age 67 for people born in 1962 or later. Your widow or widower can get reduced benefits as early as age 60. If your surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50.

• Your widow or widower can get benefits at any age if

they take care of your child younger than age 16 or disabled, who is receiving Social Security benefits.

• Your unmarried children, younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they’re attending elementary or secondary school full time), can also get benefits. Your children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22. Under certain circumstances, we can also pay benefits to your stepchildren, grandchildren, stepgrandchildren, or adopted children.

• Your dependent parents can get benefits if they’re age 62 or older. (For your parents to qualify as dependents, you must have provided at least

Elizabeth Pivonka half of their support.)

You can read more about Survivors Benefits at www. socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN05-10084.pdf.

How much your family can get from Social Security depends on your average lifetime earnings. The more you earned, the more their benefits will be. For more information on widows, widowers, and other survivors, visit www. socialsecurity.gov/planners/ survivors.

Social Security is with you through life’s journey. Be sure to tell friends and family about our Survivors Benefits and how we can help in times of need.

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Understanding Social Security benefits

Senior calendars Clifton Park Senior Community Center 6 Clifton Common Court, Clifton Park (518) 383-1343

Basic Computer Skills with Bob Mondays, 10 a.m. to noon

Learn basic computer skills with skillful instruction. Classes are free, but registration is required. Should you wish to learn more, members may be able to scheduled one-on-one sessions with Bob on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The

Massry Residence Providing an active lifestyle for seniors in a continuum of care community

Educate - Entertain - Explore Wednesday, Feb. 20, at 12:30 p.m.

Clifton Park author and journalist Michael DeMasi has worked as a newspaper reporter in the Capital District for more than 25 years. In this session, he will discuss the history of newspapers in the US, how the industry has changed, share his personal experiences in journalism and the trends he’s observed.

He will also read from his new book, ‘What They Said: 25 Years of Telling Stories’

Seated Tai Chi

This adaptation of Tai Chi presents participants with an easy to follow set of warm-up exercises and Tai Chi postures that can be performed entirely while seated. This class is also appropriate and helpful for individuals using a walker or wheelchair. 4-week Sessions $28. Registration is required. Membership is required.

Periodic Activities

Call or go online for dates and times. See our newsletter at http://cliftonpark.org/services/seniorservices/senior-center.html.

Reservations are required. Call ahead.

Investment Group, Social Bridge, Memories to Memoirs, Hand & Foot (cards), Dice 6-5-4, Rummikub, Crochet & Knitting, Poker, Osteo Exercise

Chess, Checkers & Backgammon. Exercise to Tape, LCR or Dice 3000-learn to play, Pinochle, Pool/Billiards, Duplicate Bridge, Tai Chi, Scrabble

Wednesday

Exercise to Tape, Senior

Gracious one and two-bedroom apartments • Resident-led interest groups • Medication management • Housekeeping and laundry services • Respite Care • Friends. Family. Community.

Conveniently located at: For information and 182 Washington Ave Ext a private tour: Albany, NY 12203 (518) 689-0453 daughtersofsarah.org

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COLLEGE PARKSIDE

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Thursdays

Exercise to Tape, Pool/ Billiards, Chorus, Yoga, Mondays Watercolor & Sketch, Legal Tap Intermediate, Jazz Assistance by appointment, Dance, Chair Yoga, Discussion Group, Clogging, Quilt- Seton Health Seniorcize, Duplicate Bridge, Mahing, Osteo Exercise, Soul Jongg, Pinochle, Bunco or Line Dancing.

Pinochle – learn to play

Tuesdays

•

Fridays Orchestra on the Common, Woodcarving, Tap Advanced, Ballet, Dominoes, Center Big Band, Diabetes Support Group, BINGO, Lunch and a Movie, Beading Buddies, Scrabble, Osteo Exercise.

Unsure of what all your medications do or how you should take them?

Schedule a medication review with one of our pharmacists Meet in person or over the phone We accept most major insurance plans!

518-694-8522

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FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 5

Senior calendars Niskayuna Senior Center 2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969

Ongoing activities Mondays

10 to 10:45 a.m. — Zumba Gold 11 a.m. to noon — Motion & Fitness

Tuesdays

9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi 9 a.m. to noon — Tom’s computer class (first and third Tuesdays each month) 10 a.m. to noon — cards, bridge, Mah Jongg, and Wii Bowling 10:30 a.m. — Line Dancing Noon — Lunch 12:45 to 2 p.m. — Afternoon program, lectures, trivia, games or Bingo 1 p.m. — Chair Moves with Mary (no class Feb. 18)

Thursdays

Art Studio 11 a.m. to noon — CDPHP Chair Pilates 10:30 a.m. — Alzheimer’s Support Group (first Friday of each month)

Upcoming Events iPad Basics — Tuesday, Feb. 5 and Thursday, Feb. 21.

Valentine’s Day Mean — Thursday, Feb. 14.

Art Workshop — Thursday, Feb. 21.

Members Financial Services — Tuesday, Feb. 26.

Poetry Party at Arts Center of the Capital Region in Troy — Wednesday, Feb. 27.

Eyeglass check-up — Thursday, Feb. 28.

9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi 10 a.m. to noon — Cards, * Registration and addiWii Bowling, and Mah Jongg tional fees may be required 10:30 a.m. — Bocce and for activities and events.

Pickle Ball Noon — Lunch 12:45 to 2 p.m. — Afternoon program, lectures, trivia, Program days are Tuesdays games or Bingo and Thursdays from 9 a.m.

7 p.m. — Gentle Yoga on to 3 p.m. Trips and special Feb. 7 and Feb. 14. events are offered during the Fridays other days of the week. To 10 a.m. to noon — Beginlearn more about the Niskaner Mahjong yuna Senior Center, call (518) 10 a.m. to noon — Open 372-4969.

About Us

Albany JCC, Adult Department 340 Whitehall Road, Albany (518) 438-6651, ext. 112 Claire Sigal, Program Director

Sixty-Plus Dining

Mondays and Wednesdays 4:45 to 6 p.m.

Full-course kosher dinners for those 60 and older.

Reservations taken until 9:30 a.m. the day of the meal.

Suggested contribution: $3 per person. Guest under 60 pays $10.

You Can Be a Freelance Writer

Wednesdays,12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Feb. 20 and 27

Mixed Media Art Club

Learn how to become a freelance writer, as instructor Pauline Bartel guides you through the steps. Price of the class is $49, $39 for JCC members. The class requires prepaid registration before enrollment is complete. Please note, there is a $15 fee for materials that is payable to the instructor at the first class.

Mondays 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Bring your own supplies and lend support, advice and inspiration to fellow artists. There is a $5 “drop-in” fee.

Fun and Fitness to the Songs of Broadway

Eye On The World

Thursdays, at 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

A lively current events discussion moderated by a group panel. Topics cover social, cultural and political issues. A suggested donation of $2.25 is asked for admission.

Thursdays, from 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.

Instructor Richard Feldman guides you through a fun fitness program set to the sound of Broadway tunes. A suggested donation of $2.25 is asked for admission.

B:7.25” T:7” S:6.5”

Dear Sam, The pressure you’re putting me under is too much.

I QUIT! Sincerely,

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Don’t let your heart quit on you. If you are living with high blood pressure, just knowing and doing the minimum isn’t enough. Uncontrolled high blood pressure could lead to stroke, heart attack or death.

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Veteran Next Door

Stories from World War II, Korea and Vietnam

The Remembering and Recognition Business

A

few years ago I was invited to a group to make a presentation about Patriot Flight. The group was primarily organizations that offer many services to our young troops of today. They offer such life services such as jobs, housing, counseling, education programs and many other well deserved services for the young returning troops. I was asked how Patriot Flight fit in with these organizations and the current day troops.

I responded “every young returning troop should thank any Vietnam Veteran for it was those Veterans that taught this nation that no troops should be treated that way. Also they should thank the Korean War Veteran for they fought the Forgotten War and the ‘police action” only ended with a cease fire. I am in the Remembering and Recognition Business only.” Patriot Flight honors and respects all troops but our current mission and our articles of incorporation allows us to only take Veterans on a free trip to memorials erected in their honor. As they build future memorials, the young troops will be included and

Patriot Flight will continue with their mission. Patriot Flight has become a community organization made up of all volunteers, Veterans and Patriots, and we say “we do not just fly you and forget you.”

Patriot Flight is holding its first ‘Honor a Patriot Flight Veteran’ on Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Bethlehem Public Library, at 1 p.m. We will have two Veterans from WW II available to speak about their military service and their experiences with Patriot Flight.

In addition there will be a very appropriate video from one of our prior events you find enjoyable. The public is

welcomed to this free event.

Also we love to have a full house but seating is limited.

In the business of “Remembering and Recognition,” there is follow up to the article from January 2018 entitled ‘Purple Hearts, Flags and Heroes.’ In my possession is a World War I framed certificate of a soldier wounded in action that is signed by Woodrow Wilson. It is equivalent to the current day Purple Heart. Thanks to Zake Fike of Purple Hearts Reunited in Vermont, he discovered some information on Private Celestino Reale. He lived in Albany in 1960, traveled to Italy a few times, worked on the railroad and passed away at

Frank DeSorbo

age 88. Like all Purple Hearts, this framed certificate belongs to the heirs. On our Honor a Patriot Flight Veteran event, the framed certificate will be on display. Hopefully I will find the rightful heirs and I will then hold a special event to return it. If there is someone who can substantiate more information, please email me at fomservice.com.

In my heart, I will never forget the Veterans of the Normandy Invasion, D-Day June 6, 1944. This is the 75th year anniversary. The National D-Day Memorial (www.dday. org) is holding a special fourday event from June 5 to June 8, in the town of Bedford, Virginia. I have been invited by the National D-Day Memorial Organization to attend the ceremonies. I reserved eight rooms and intend to take a car caravan to the event. More information will be forthcoming and feel free to email me at fomservice.com.

The Remembering and Recognition Business is very memorable, rewarding and busy.

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FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 7

Organize Senior Moves

Start Small This Year the box. From there you can decide what to toss or donate.

Don’t be intimidated by a messy entry-way or mudroom; it’s an easy fix. Only keep the coats and shoes in this area that are currently in use. Fall jackets and other light weight ones can be hung up in a closet. If you have a clutter of shoes, organize everything using bins. Stores like Home Goods, TJ Max and Marshalls have great bins and baskets in various materials to help contain things while also being aesthetically pleasing to the eye. You can assign each member of the family their own bin (if there’s enough room) or just have a bin each for shoes, cold-weather accessories (hats, gloves, scarves), backpacks, etc.

You can buy mini chalkboard tags at Michael’s to make labels. Having everything in order will make it easier to get in and out of the door. Tidy everything up every few days as needed.

How does your linen closet and pantry look? These two spots can quickly become an unorganized mess (unintentionally, of course.) The best solution? Remove everything from each and start over. This

Call Today 518-312-7983 KeepMovingWithStephanie.com 8 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019

for the time being. There are a lot of shoe storage options to fit every budget - shelves, racks and over-the-door hangers.

You can also purchase clear shoe bins, take a pic of each shoe and tape on the front for easy access. Command hooks are a lifesaver when it comes to hanging ties, belts, scarves and purses without making holes in the wall or the back of the door. The key to closet organizing is to group like items together: pants with pants, white shirts with shirts, etc. Also, switching from plastic to either wooden or fabric covered hangers can make a big difference.

Wouldn’t it be great to wake up to a spic and span kitchen? Take the time each night to put all the dishes away, clean the sink and declutter the counter tops. Use paper plates for breakfast to avoid a dish pile-up, if possible. Take a weekend to deep clean cabinets, counters and floors.

Don’t start a project when you’re pressed for time. Only tackle any of these ideas when you are in the right frame of mind and when you have all day.

HEARING AIDS THAT WORK… …A practitioner you can trust!

GIVE YOURSELF A CHANCE TO IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE! In Home Personal Training

The hEARt of Bethlehem

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• Certified Geriatric Personal Trainer through A.A.H.F. • Do you need someone to keep you motivated to stay active?

• Is balance an issue?

Stephanie Hutchins In-home personal training is convenient and can help you start living with confidence/independence.

will give you the opportunity to ditch expired items (food and meds) and throw out things you no longer need or use: towels that have seen better days, hair products that you no longer use, excess cans of food that you can donate to your local food pantry. With everything sorted, you can now put things back in place.

Like aforementioned, bins and baskets are your friend to round things up. Glass jars are helpful in a pantry if you want to get rid of boxes of pasta, rice, cereal, etc. This makes it easy to see see when it’s time to replenish. Label baskets for baking, and give the shelves a good cleaning before neatly putting things back.

Once a month you’ll need to go through to make things tidy again, but this is part of organizing. When you don’t do this is when things quickly spin out of control.

The same goes for bedroom closets. It’s best to remove everything and start fresh.

Haven’t worn something in a year? Donate. If you’re on a weight loss journey and hope to eventually fit into certain clothes, store them in a plastic bin and keep in the basement

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W

ith HGTV being so popular among singletons and couples of all ages, it’s hard not to fantasize about what your house can look like when you see amazing before and after photos where everything is organized to perfection (not to mention the most gorgeous kitchens you’ve ever seen!).

But without a team to help, it can be overwhelming. Where to start? How to start? You may become exasperated and think “Why even bother?”

Don’t give up! The key to organizing is to take baby steps.

Tackle one room or project at a time. Becoming and staying organized is a lifestyle and it’s important to remember to clean up one mess before the next one starts. If not, you’ll have a domino-effect of messes.

One of the easiest things you can do first is de-clutter.

Walk around your home with a big box and get rid of anything you no longer use, need or want. If you have kids, chances are you have a lot of unused toys and games you can donate. Books, newspapers and magazines you’ve read - in

By Mary Beth Galarneau

Many senior living residences stand alone.

Unlike “stand alone” senior living residences that provide only one level of care, Kingsway Community offers a dedicated continuum of care— from beautiful independent living apartments to quality, skilled nursing care.

Kingsway stands out.

We provide comprehensive support for current and future needs all on one campus, so our residents can live active lives and look forward to the future with peace of mind.

Outstanding coordinated care, all on one campus: that’s the Kingsway difference.

Kingsway Manor Assisted Living was awarded the 2017 National Silver Quality Award from the American Health Care Association/National Center for Assisted Living.

LifePath Living Center Grand Opening ALBANY — Senior Services of Albany is excited to announce the opening of its LifePath Living Center located at 80 Central Avenue.

An open house is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For a tour and food tastings, call 518-465-3322 or email mjones@seniorservicesofalbany.com to submit a reservation.

A newly renovated, modern, bright place for individuals 60 years or older to gather and enjoy a large array of programs to help them age well. This will be a great place to spend time with friends, enjoy a nutritious meal, and keep one’s mind and body active.

Senior Services of Albany will be offering yoga, thai chi, art, creative writing and technology classes, along with book and card clubs, inter-generational programs, lunch and learns and much more!

In addition, multi-session programs will be held on a regular basis. Programs will be scheduled throughout the spring and summer months. Health Insurance Counseling and Case Management resources will also be provided.

Lunch will be served Monday - Friday at 12:30 p.m.* Please call Linda at 518-465-3322 by 1:30 p.m. on the day prior to the meal to make reservations.

The LifePath Living Center will be open from Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The location is conveniently located near CDTA Bus Routes 1 and 712, just a short two to threeminute walk to the bus stop at the corner of Central Avenue and Lexington Avenue. * This Congregate Meal Program is supported in part by the Albany County Department of Aging, the New York State Department of Aging and the Administration for Community Living, and participant contributions.

Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitation Assisted Living | Memory Care | Senior Apartments Home Care | Adult Day Program | Respite 323 Kings Road, Schenectady, NY 12304 | 518.393.8800 kingswaycommunity.com 107293_4

94 1924 – 2018

• Assisted Living • Memory Care • Enhanced Care • Respite Care

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FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 9

Williams comes up to bat How baseball legend Ted Williams helped ignite the broadcasting career of a local icon Bowman

By MICHAEL HALLISEY halliseym@spotlightnews.com

D

ick Wood can spin a yarn.

It’s a trait that helped land the former television anchorman his broadcasting career. But, that’s not the story he often tells. It shouldn’t be the lead story.

For nearly 20 years, Wood was the anchorman for News 10.

He, along with Marci Elliot, would welcome home residents from rush hour traffic with the latest in local and national news on Albany’s ABC affiliate. His distinctive bass to baritone voice is what longtime residents remember. When a Rhode Island television station announced he had died in 2009, a community was shocked. No one more so than Wood himself.

Radio

Gene Loparco

10 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019

Shortly before Wood was to graduate from high school, his father asked to know what his plans were. Wood said he didn’t know. This did not sit well with him. His father was a good salesman, as long as he believed in the product. If he believed in it, he could sell it. One such product was the radio. It was going in every household, and Wood’s father was a part of that. He wasn’t patient with his only child. He assumed his son had a few schools to choose from. No. He didn’t.

Determined to point his wayward son into a productive direction, his father lined him up with an assortment of job opportunities. If he wasn’t going to school, he wasn’t going to sit around, Wood recalled.

Wood worked a number of different jobs around town. It was his father’s way of teaching his son the value of a hard day’s work.

On occasion, his father would stop and probe him with questions to see if he was learning the lesson. Was he working hard? Did he know what he wanted to do next? Once, he said he thought about going into broadcasting. “What are you going to do, spin

records?” he mocked.

The lesson continued.

Wood landed a job as a busboy at The Meadows, a popular jazz club outside of Boston owned by singer Vaughn Monroe.

The one rule impressed on him the most was that he was forbidden from fraternizing with celebrities. It seemed simple enough.

It was Wood’s first night on the job when he recognized three men as they walked through the room. A longtime fan of the Boston Red Sox, the faces of the three men were impossible to mistake — Pinky Higgins, Johnny Pesky and Ted Williams. He watched as they were seated towards the back of the club. As he cleared nearby tables Wood looked over with curiosity. His manager scolded him for “staring.”

Wood continued with his chores and the same floor manager decided to award her young employee with the task of delivering ice cream pies to Williams and his table. In the kitchen, he was told to place only four desserts on a tray. His order called for six. He walked out the door with a tray of six desserts hoisted one-handed over his shoulder. He soon learned a different lesson in physics. As he approached the table, he lost his balance and

his story. For a man whose whole career was to speak, sharing a tale among friends was nothing. Trying to get anywhere with Alexa, the voice-activated product that sits on the side table of his chair, is another story. A brief story. She continues to entertain guests in their warm home in Latham, lights from the Christmas tree glow throughout the living room.

Wood, 88, said his doctor has him listed as a possible Alzheimer’s patient. On a rare occasion, he stops in the middle of a story, lost on a detail. As old as the story is, its no surprise.

The details he can share are as vivid as something that happened to him yesterday. There is no hint of the illness as he continues.

Williams at the plate

Williams stepped in. Despite the mess, Wood recalls the ballplayer saying that he “never laughed harder,” and warned the owner with a pricey ultimatum. “If you fire this kid, no ballplayer will come into this club.” The owner reluctantly agreed.

It took a while for the club owner to warm to Wood. One night he sat next to the kid and asked whether or not he decided what he wanted to do with the rest of his life. He heard his voice and mentioned how his daughter was attending broadcasting school. Wood enrolled.

As a student, Wood took an interest to his studies unlike that of high school. He was writing, something he enjoyed. For the first time, he made the honor roll.

It was the first step towards a broadcasting career of which his father did not approve. It would lead to television. His first station helped him earn a journalism certificate through Brown University. When his father scoffed at his career path, Wood reminded him of his accomplishments. He was on television. He had an Ivy League education. The doubt turned into pride.

“Ted Williams and Vaughn Monroe are the two responsible for my career,” said Wood.

Rhode Island

Wood spent 10 years on Rhode Island television with WJAR before moving to the Capital District to anchor WTEN in 1973.

It’s where he earned his chops as a television reporter. He was just slipped. The tray went flying. The pies landed on the table and a cub reporter while on assignment to meet Ted Williams. The the club’s famous guests.

Hall of Fame baseball player was a hero in New England. Stories The floor manager ran to the horrific scene. What happened of his prowess at the plate were often matched by those that next was like a choreographed comedy scene out of “I Love spoke of how he served as a fighter pilot during World War II Lucy.” As the floor manager attended to the table, her wig caught and the Korean War. But, today, the greatest hitter one ever saw the hilt of the fork stuck in the lone pie on the table, only for it on a baseball diamond was pitching fishing equipment at a local to flip up onto her wig. The room ignited with laughter. sporting goods store. Wood approached.

Wood’s first night was promised to be his last. In order for “Mr. Williams,” he said. “Do I look at all familiar to you?” him to pick up his check for the night, he was required to stay off “No, kid,” he responded to Wood. As heroic his exploits the floor until the club closed for the night. may have been on the field, he was also equally known to have Wood stayed to pick up his check. Monroe, the club owner, a surly demeanor. He didn’t like reporters. Reporters didn’t like was in the office talking with the three ballplayers when he him. In 1941, after a season in which he batted .406, Williams caught a glimpse of Wood. He scolded him without mercy in finished second to the Yankees’ Joe DiMaggio for the league’s front of his guests and fired him. most valuable player. Historians often point back to his mercurial attitude towards the writers who help decide the award. “Why should you look familiar to me?”

Wood’s wife Kristin rolls her eyes and smiles as he tells his “Mr. Williams, I was that kid at The Meadows.” stories. He was born with the gift of gab. While once trying out Williams looked up from what he was doing to peer into for a job, he was given four minutes to pitch coffee. He gave Wood’s face. His expression softened. “Hey, Yaz!” he motioned to them six. It led to his first television job.

Carl Yastrzemski, Williams’ now heir apparent in Fenway’s left field, “Come here, it’s that kid!”

“Breathe, Dick!” said Kristin. Her husband was an hour into WTEN

Breathe

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Crossword & Crypto Answers on Page 14 Clues Across

CRYPTO F UN

1. Chop or cut 4. Political action committee 7. Male parent 10. Doctors’ group 11. Ottoman military commander 12. A metal-bearing natural material 13. Lively ballroom dance 15. Male Gypsy 16. Once-popular card game 19. Occurred just once 21. __ Streisand, singer 23. Shiny yellow minerals 24. Get hitched again 25. See (Latin) 26. Lies between the Caspian & Persian Gulf 27. Scourges 30. Sentence 34. Supervises flying 35. Bar bill 36. Alfalfa 41. Type of dishwasher soap 45. Witnesses 46. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 47. Newspapers need them 50. Discuss again 54. Small group with shared interests 55. Support 56. Wool 57. Take hold of 59. Likely the first Meso-American civilization 60. Woman (French) 61. Automobile 62. Popular Georgia rockers 63. Soviet Socialist Republic 64. A major division of geological time 65. Make an effort

Clues Down

1. Czech monetary unit 2. Able to arouse feeling 3. Elk 4. Muscular weaknesses 5. Earlier 6. Lightweight fabric 7. One who greets 8. Soldiers sometimes wear one 9. Officially prohibit 13. US political party 14. Used of a number or amount not specified 17. Make a mistake 18. Biopic starring Jamie Foxx 20. Ancient Media inhabitant 22. About aviation 27. Popular American sports league 28. Cologne 29. Partner to cheese 31. When you’ll get there 32. Not pleased 33. One point east (clockwise) of due north 37. Respects 38. Shake up 39. Ethiopian river 40. Intrinsic nature of something 41. Principal parts of the brain 42. Brews 43. Where ships dock 44. One who wassails 47. Shock treatment 48. Popular average 49. Things 51. A type of “bear” 52. Utilize 53. European Economic Community 58. Swiss river

Valentine’s Day

WORD SEARCH

Solve the code to discover words related to LOVE & AFFECTION. Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 26 = e)

12 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019

ANNIVERSARY CHOCOLATE FEELINGS HUG MEMORIES SAINT ARROW CUPCAKE FLIRT JEWELRY MUSIC SERENADE BOUQUET CUPID FLOWERS KISS POEM SWEET CANDY DESSERT GIFTS LACE RELATIONSHIP TRADITION CARDS DOVES HEARTS LOVE ROMANCE VALENTINE WOO CELEBRATION EMBRACE HOLIDAY MARRIAGE ROSES

Senior calendars Voorheesville Public Library 51 School Road, Voorheesville (518) 765-2791 www.voorheesvillelibrary.org

Beading Workshop Tuesday, Feb. 5

Join us from 6 to 8 p.m. to learn easy beading techniques for making simple necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The library provides tools and offers a variety of beads to choose from, or you are welcome to bring your own supplies and projects along. Please register.

Thursday Afternoon Movie Thursdays, Feb. 7, 14, 21, & 28

Join us Thursday at 1:30 p.m. to watch a classic movie on our giant screen. Check

our website calendar or call for movie titles and descriptions.

Light refreshments served.

Nimblefingers Craft Group Tuesdays, Feb. 5, 12, 19, & 26

ments. This month we will be watching “Five years after the events of Mamma Mia, Sophie prepares for the grand opening of the Hotel Bella Donna as she learns more about her mothers past..” (IMDB) Rated PG, 1h 54m.

Using Microsoft Word Monday, Feb. 11

Join us from either 10:30 to noon or 6 to 7:30 p.m. to learn the basics of formatting a Bring your projects, socialdocument in Microsoft Word ize, and connect with other on the character, paragraph, crafters every Tuesday at 1 and page level. We’ll also learn p.m. Share your own special how to structure the docutalents or learn a new skill. ment to make organization and presentation simple. This class assumes general computer use knowledge. Participants can Sunday, Feb. 10 bring their own devices, or use one of the Library’s laptops.

Join us at 2 p.m. for a contemporary film and refresh- Please register for one session.

Second Sunday Film

Annual Winter Film Festival Wednesday, Feb. 13 Dennis Sullivan will be our host for the 2nd Annual Winter Film Festival. This year, Dennis has chosen four directors/films that focus on life, death, dance, and subversion. All programs will start at 6 p.m.

Bar Crawl!

Saturday, Feb. 16 Join us from 1 to 2:30 p.m. as we decide who makes the cookie bars. Will the winner be Billionaire Shortbread, Peanut Butter Brownies, or will the Banana Pudding Cheesecake take the crown? Bring your bars and leave a champion!

Prizes will be awarded. Registration required. Please register.

H. I. L. L.

Humanities Institute for Lifelong Learning

“The University In Our Town” HILL presents its 26th Spring semester of university-level courses in the Humanities and related fields to the residents of the Capital District. The courses are taught by distinguished experts who are usually faculty members of local colleges. The fee for each course is $35.

• Great Transformations in American Politics • Franklin Roosevelt, the Great Depression, and the New Deal • Topics in African American History • The Life & Music of Ralph Vaughan Williams • Horror & Literature: What is a Monster?

Classes start the week of March 4 at the Delmar Reformed Church on Delaware Avenue at the Four Corners.

For course descriptions and a registration form, visit our web page at www.bethlehemschools.org/ community/adult-education or call 518-368-7029.

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THIS SPRING:

FEBRUARY 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 13

Senior calendars Bethlehem Public Library 451 Delaware Ave., Delmar (518) 439-9314 www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org

Introduction to Windows 10 Monday, Feb. 4

In this class for computer beginners, we will go over the basics of using the Windows 10 operating system, 10 a.m.noon. Sign up online or call.

See also, Intro to the Internet on Monday, Feb. 25.

Fun and Games for Grownups Monday, Feb. 4

An adults-only gathering where you can play games, including chess, color and socialize, 6-8:30 p.m. Snacks served!.

Friday Cinema Friday, Feb. 8

Film series with titles suitable for adult audiences. See www.bethlehempubliclibrary. org for a list of titles. Shown with Subtitling for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing when possible, 2:30 p.m.

See also, Red Carpet Trivia Night for Adults on Wednesday, Feb. 13.

A Little Sunday, Music: The Bleecker Consort Sunday, Feb. 10

This audience favorite will play a diverse set of instru-

ments, including early strings, reeds and a variety of percussion, 2-3 p.m.

See also, Listening Parties on Thursday, Feb. 21.

Daybooks

Feb. 11 and Feb. 14 Discuss “Stay with Me” by Ayobami Adebayo, 1:30 p.m.

Copies are available at the information desk. Large-print audio and downloadable copies may be available.

Open Sewing

Mondays, Feb. 11 and 25 From 6 to 8 p.m.

Sewing machines will be available for independent projects, 6-8 p.m. Bring your own supplies. Volunteers may be on hand to assist you. Register for up to two sessions.

See also, Knit One Purl One on Sunday, Feb. 17.

Adobe Premiere Elements 2018 Training Various dates Learn how to edit videos, create titles, insert transitions, add special effects, adjust audio and more to create a professional looking video suitable for a variety of media.

Sign up online or call.

Tuesday, Feb. 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 11, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Thursday Feb. 28, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

For more information, call 439-9314 or visit bethlehempubliclibrary.org.

Leading the Way in Memory Care We offer joy and meaningful stimulation to those afflicted by dementia along with safe and secure services for our residents 24 hours a day.

Our services include:

518-456-4500

ColonieMemories.com 5 South Family Drive Colonie, NY 12205

Clifton Park

518-371-2200

CliftonParkMemories.com 1 Emma Lane Clifton Park, NY 12065 107269_4

14 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019

- Spacious private rooms, ground-level floor plan with common areas - Three nutritious meals a day, plus snacks - Expansive grounds and secure, enclosed courtyards - Dedicated chapel for all denominations - On-site beauty parlor/barber shop - Housekeeping, laundry and maintenance services included - Daily activities to promote physical health, social interaction and intellectual stimulation

Add Your Event to our Monthly Calendar for Older Adults!

Does your organization have an event of interest to older adults?

If so, we want to know about it!

Events must be submitted via email to: halliseym@spotlightnews.com Deadline is the first of the month prior to publication.

All listings must include date, time, location, contact information and any fees. Please do not exceed 90 words per item listing.

For more information, please call Michael Hallisey at 518-439-4949

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Colonie

CRYTOGRAM ANSWERS A. kisses B. hugs C. romance D. valentine

Don’t just live longer, live better!

Every month, we’ve got what you need to know.

cdseniorspotlight.com

To advertise call Denice at 518.439.4949 or email: MauD@Spotlightnews.com

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16 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — FEBRUARY 2019