Capital District Senior Spotlight - October 2019

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

Spotlight

Senior A Spotlight News publication in cooperation with LifePath

THE RESOURCE FOR SENIORS

COMPLIMENTARY

OCTOBER 2019

NO. 10

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The Ultimate Grand Slam

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Schools, Apples, Fall Sports and Grandparents Calendar and Events OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 1

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2 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

Editor’s desk

Root, root, root for the home team

S

port is so often used in metaphors to explain everyday life. It happens so frequently that people who dislike professional sports will be caught using something along the likes of the following.

Maybe you met someone interesting at a dinner party and hope to meet them again over a drink.

You were bold enough to share your phone number with this stranger. It’s been a few days, and you’ve heard nothing. Oh well, the ball is in their court.

The business world is guilty of applying sports terminology to upcoming deadlines. It’s almost too easy, especially when presented with impossible expectations in a short amount of time. You have to gather up your team and explain the urgency of the situation. It’s time to apply a full-court press.

For me, baseball is in my wheelhouse. It’s a sport I grew up with, and I played it often enough to respect both the nuances of the game and the skill level required to excel.

The Ultimate Grand Slam is a story of forgotten subjects. Baseball teams that are no more. A quiet young superstar whose achievements were quickly overshadowed by a larger than life character. A city in our neighborhood that continues to fight for its own identity. There are incredible opponents and scrappy underdogs throughout this storyline. In the end, the home team ends up winning the contest. And, that’s what we always hope happens in the end.

October 2019 Features Technology: Better To Be Safe Than Sorry Feature: The Ultimate Grand Slam

6 10

Local History: Revisiting Al-Tro Park

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Columnists Social Security Corner

5

Retiring Retirement

8

A Patriot Remembers

13

Senior Services Albany JCC

4

Voorheesville Library

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LifePath 12 Bethlehem Library

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Clifton Park Senior Comm. Center 18 Niskayuna Senior Center

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publisher - John

Sincerely, Michael Hallisey, Managing Editor Spotlight Newspapers

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.

OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 3

Senior calendars Albany JCC, Adult Department

Admission costs $12 in advance, and $15 at the door. Seats are limited.

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

Sixty - Plus Dining

Mondays & Wednesdays, at 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 pay $10.

Eye On The World

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

A current events discussion group, guest moderators $2.25 suggested donation per session.

Acrylic Painting

Mondays, Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11, & 25, at 9:30 a.m.

Senior Chorale

Thursdays, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Sherri Strichman, chorale director, instructs rehearsals and performances each Thursday afternoons. To participate, there is a $2.25 donation suggested per session.

Patrick Tobin sings Sinatra

Thursday, Oct. 24, at 1:30 p.m.

Dorothea Osborn, studio artist and art instructor, instructs you through the art of acrylic painting. Sessions are designed for beginners and those who have some painting experience. Attendance costs $69 a person ($60 for JCC members).

Prepaid registration is required before class fills. Request a class flyer with supply list.

Writing From Your Heart

Patrick Tobin is a critically acclaimed Frank Sinatra tribute Wednesdays, artist. As part of our Autumn Concert in the Afternoon series, Oct. 30 & Nov. 6, at 12:30 p.m.

Tobin will sing the classics from Pauline Bartel, President/ inside the Albany JCC auditoChief Creative Officer of Bartel rium. Light refreshments will Communications, Inc., Instructs be served following the concert. a class on the art of writing

OrganizeSenior SeniorMoves Moves Organize

personal essays. Attendance costs $49 a person ($39 for JCC members). Prepaid registration required before class fills.

Book Mavens

Wednesday, Nov. 13

Ruchel Weitz, a Yiddish/ Hebrew teacher, reviews the Monica Heese book, “Girl in the Blue Coat.”

A poignant World War II novel that looks at the choices all of us- including young adults- have to make in wartime.Suggested donation: $2.25. per person.

Pre-Thanksgiving Concert & Dinner

Monday, Nov. 18, at 4 p.m.

Concert of Songs, a program of contemporary and classical music, performed by A Touch of Woodwinds. A full course, kosher dinner follows the concert. Attendance requires a $14 prepaid registration.

GIVE YOURSELF A CHANCE TO IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE! In Home Personal Training • Is balance an issue?

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

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Organize Senior Moves guides people through the difficult task of downsizing • Experienced: • Design Layouts 500+ moves • Downsizing • Set up new home • Organizing • Estate Sales • Estate Sale/Clean Outs • Layout & Design • Sale/Donation • Packing Stage old home sale of New Place of• Items • Organizing • Unpacking • Oversee whole move

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Learn about Hearing Technology October 8, 9 and 10

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Senior Moves five years ago to help seniors and their families deal with downsizing and moving step by step.

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Social Security Corner

Medicare, Explained

Often confused for Social Security, Elizabeth explains Medicare

S

ocial Security and Medicare have a few things in common. Both programs help safeguard millions of Americans as well as improve the quality of life for our family and friends. Although both programs are household names, many people may not be familiar with the details of Medicare.

Medicare is our country’s health insurance program for people age 65 or older. The program helps with the cost of health care, but it doesn’t cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. You have choices for how you get Medicare coverage. If you choose to have original

Medicare coverage, you can buy a Medicare supplement policy (called Medigap) from a private insurance company to cover some of the costs that Medicare does not.

Medicare has four parts: o Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility (following a hospital stay). Part A also pays for some home health care and hospice care. o Medicare Part B (medical insurance) helps pay for services from doctors and other health care providers, outpatient care, home health care, durable medical equipment, and some preventive services.

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o Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) includes all benefits and services covered under Part A and Part B. Some plans include Medicare prescription drug coverage (Medicare Part D) and other extra benefits and services. o Medicare Part D (Medicare prescription drug coverage) helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Some people with limited resources and income may also be able to get Extra Help with the costs—monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments—related to a Medicare prescription drug plan. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,900 per year. You must

Elizabeth Pivonka

meet the resources and income requirement.

Medicare’s different parts are further explained in our publication at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043. pdf.

If you can’t afford to pay your Medicare premiums and other medical costs, you may be able to get help from your state. States offer programs for people eligible for or entitled to Medicare who have low income. Some programs may pay for Medicare premiums and some pay Medicare deductibles and coinsurance. To qualify, you must have Medicare Part A and have limited income and resources.

Mentor Youth in Your Community!

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OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 5

Technology

Better to be safe than sorry Local cybersecurity experts weigh in on recent data breach, offer suggestions

By DIEGO CAGARA cagarad@spotlightnews.com ALBANY COUNTY — When news broke out in mid-September that over 2,000 Bethlehem Central students’ data had been digitally breached by unknown hackers, a natural response is to take cybersecurity more seriously moving forward.

The breached data affected students’ names, birth dates and email addresses as Bethlehem Central was among 13,000 other districts across several states that were also hit.

AIMSweb – a student assessment tool under Pearson Education, Inc. that BC had used up to June 2017 – had originally been breached in November 2018. Pearson discovered this in March 2019 before beginning to inform affected districts in July. Pearson finally informed BC in late August.

6 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

In 2019, it is nearly impossible to keep information out of the network of computers and databases. Every swipe of your credit card sends information across the network. Despite your best efforts, your personal information can still end up in the wrong hands.

The number of hackers, their identities and motives remain unknown in the meantime.

However, several cybersecurity experts and organizations throughout the Capital District offered their perspectives on the matter.

“It’s not always a case where hackers are looking for money from an individual or institution,” wrote Joshua S. Koons, the director of New Business Development at the Saratoga Springs-based Tech II Business Services, Inc. in an email. “In many cases, [they] are looking for that information to sell off in bulk to others.

From there, it could just be used for marketing purposes but could potentially be more severe, depending on the detail of the information.”

Victoria Kisekka, an assistant professor in information security and digital forensics at the University at Albany’s School of Business, said, “The importance of cybersecurity isn’t new but the reason is more important lately because cybercrime threatens nearly every aspect of our lives since almost every aspect of our lives is electronic. Essentially, you need to protect your information and devices from theft, misuse, damage and service disruption.”

She said that if people are not too careful with their personal information online, they may be more vulnerable to being a victim of tax fraud, identity theft, having fraudulent bank accounts opened by a hacker and more.

The East Greenbush-based Center for Internet Security (CIS) provided a webpage called “Online Safety and Cybersecurity Tips for K-12 Kids, Family and Friends” earlier this month where it gave examples of cybersecurity risks for children and families like cyberbullying, identity theft or phishing, sexting and shady interactions on social media platforms.

It also encouraged parents to start discussing the importance of cybersecurity with their children at an early age, as soon as children begin having access to a computing or electronic device. Parents should also be aware of what their children are doing online, especially when they are much younger, and to foster an honest and welcoming environment where children can feel comfortable coming to their parents with questions about their online experience.

For more information, visit www.cisecurity. org/newsletter/cybersecurity-tips-for-K-12kids-family-and-friends.

“In every environment, the end user is always going to be the biggest vulnerability,” Koons similarly echoed the above sentiment.

“Education on even the smallest scale should start the first time a child is allowed to turn on a device.”

Both Koons and Kisekka agreed that people should embrace multi-authentication, where an organization would need more than one way to authenticate you before using its services. It would ask you to verify your email address and phone number, for example, as opposed to just needing one password.

While multi-authentication or two-step authentication is not always required, it provides an extra layer of security for the user.

Major companies like Bank of America, Google and Microsoft are among those encouraging their users to use two-step authentication.

Kisekka offered several more tips like clearing out one’s browser and closing out of every session when using the internet or an online service; regular credit monitoring to see if someone else has opened an account without your knowledge; not auto-saving your passwords as someone may easily access every account and not need a password; keep up with software updates for your electronic devices; and use just one credit card for online purchases.

“A debit card is directly connected to your bank account and you’re giving someone else direct access to your money more easily. It may take the bank some time to recognize fraudulent activity and then you’d need to provide proof,” she said. “So, try not to use a debit card there. Also, with a credit card, if Chase gets hacked, for example, and your card is Chase, then that’s just one card you’ll worry about.”

Koons wrote that cybersecurity should not concern just schools and households but also businesses and municipalities, and that his company uses tools to monitor and fight against potential breaches every day.

Kisekka said, however, that cybersecurity threats are increasing in recent years and it’s becoming more challenging to identify hackers due to technology remaining ever-evolving which makes it easier for hackers to launch new attacks.

Hence, as CIS stated, teaching cybersecurity to children at a young age can be very beneficial for them in the long run as they themselves learn to recognize potential cybersecurity risks and ways to avoid them.

Kisekka concluded that as more digital breaches occur and are reported in the news, she said she believes that there is an increased interest in recent years among people to study and pursue a career that is related to cybersecurity. “Every company has to worry about cybersecurity nowadays,” she said. “Like how every company needs an HR and IT department, it’s now very important to have a cybersecurity department too.”

OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 7

Retiring Retirement

In Your Sixties?

T

om Threlkeld was sixty-six when he and his wife Laura spearheaded the purchase of Bethlehem’s WOPG-AM radio station across from Kleinke’s Farm on Kenwood Avenue.

They saw that meadow as a mission field where they could plant spiritual seeds during their golden years.

“The senior years are a tremendous gift from God,” Threlkeld said. “In them, we recognize the last four things: death, judgment, heaven and hell. We find that God has lovingly guided us for the good of His will and we are invited to be open to His message.

Go Start A Radio Station!

“There’s more joy in the senior years than you can ever imagine. Grandchildren, for one. Ours love to sit in front of the microphone.”

In 2014, the all-volunteer

Robert LaCosta

group bought the station from media giant Disney to broaden the reach of programs airing on the global Catholic network EWTN, although non-Catholic individuals and groups are often invited to share their ministries.

How does one go from being an engineer of General Electric’s power plant division to running local radio?

Saudi Arabia is the short answer. When Threlkeld’s work took him to the middle east in 1981, he and his wife found themselves meeting in house prayer groups that led them back to their Catholic roots.

Later, that same faith

became bolstered by EWTN programming. He simply wanted to bring those broadcast teachings to the capital district.

Kenwood Avenue studios may not draw a lot of techsavvy volunteers, but they are always open to anyone who’d like to help plow the “field” across from Kleinke’s Farm.

To arrange a visit, contact Threlkeld at 518-478-0121.

To receive Robert J. LaCosta’s free daily devotional, write to norepcom@gmail.com or call 518-435-1250 or visit robertlacosta.com. Use the same to suggest a senior for this column or to request Mr. LaCosta to write your memoir.

“My wife knew that I was mixing things up at work.”

95

— Mario, living with Alzheimer’s

1924 – 2019

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

When something feels different, it could be Alzheimer’s.

Now is the time to talk.

Visit

alz.org/ourstories to learn more

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8 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

Senior calendars

No Gimmicks, No Hidden Fees, Just the Lowest Price for Cremation with Professional & Dignified Service.

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

Stop by the library and taste test some of the popular “seltzers” out there. Which brand does it best? Seasonal flavors - can you tell what it is? Which one will be your favorite? Please register.

Costume Swap!

Saturday, Oct. 12 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

All ages costume swap!

Bring what you can no longer use, take what you need now.

Please bring clean, gently used costumes and accessories. We will take donations starting Oct. 7, when the library is open. Anything left over will be donated.

Second Sunday Film

Sunday, Oct. 13, at 2 p.m.

“Following a ghost invasion of Manhattan, paranormal enthusiasts Erin Gilbert and Abby Yates, nuclear engineer Jillian Holtzmann, and subway worker Patty Tolan band together to stop the otherworldly threat.” 2016 PG-13 1h 56m (IMDB) Light refreshments will be served.

Beading Workshop Tuesday, Oct. 15. at 6 p.m.

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. Check out our bead-

ing books and magazines for inspiration. You may arrive at any time during the workshop that fits your schedule.

Adults and teens ages 14 and up. Please register.

218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY • 518-435-8030 www.SimpleChoicesCremation.com

Roy F. Bordeau Owner/Manager Serving Families Since 1975

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Thursday, Oct. 10 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The Capital District’s leading provider for Direct Cremation, Urns and Memorial Services with over 40 years experience to bring it all together.

Books & Beyond Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 11 a.m.

Books and Beyond is our monthly Fiction Book Discussion choice for people who would prefer to attend a morning discussion. New members are always welcome! Join one or all meetings. The September book is And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie.

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Soda Club

Serving the entire Capital District

Staying Organized Thursday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m.

We teach you the uncluttering process and give you organizational tips as we walk you through some folding techniques.

Thursday Afternoon Movie

Leading the Way in Memory Care

Thursdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, at 1:30 p.m.

Join us Thursday 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

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:

Colonie

518-456-4500

ColonieMemories.com 5 South Family Drive Colonie, NY 12205

Tuesdays, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29, at 1:30 p.m.

Bring your projects, socialize, and connect with other crafters every Tuesday. All crafters are welcome to join the group.

Clifton Park

518-371-2200

CliftonParkMemories.com 1 Emma Lane Clifton Park, NY 12065 110687_4

- 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

OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 9

Feature Story

The Ultimate Grand Slam

A turn of events rewrites baseball history

N

By Michael Hallisey

early 50 people gathered under the shadow of the Dunn Memorial Bridge in a Rensselaer pocket park that scores of weekend warriors have played softball, but no one came to see a game that day.

They came to celebrate the result of a previously played contest, settled 138 years ago with the swing of a bat.

A home run. A grand slam. Hit by the home team in the final frame of the game. Since baseball was first crowned the National Pastime, it has been the scenario of young boys and girls played out a countless number of times in the backyards of Americana.

But on this spot, in a pocket park enveloped by an unfinished highway on a long-forgotten island in a game played by the two worst teams in the National League — neither of whom

10 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

called Rensselaer home — more than a century ago, the first walk-off grand slam was hit in Major League Baseball history.

The turnout for the dedication ceremony was unwittingly appropriate.

The game that was played on Sept. 10, 1881 was between Worcester and Troy, two teams notorious for drawing few people to games. Troy once established the inauspicious record of hosting 12 spectators to a home game. The inability to attract crowds is why you see Worcester’s club playing in Philadelphia as the Phillies and Troy’s team playing in San Francisco as the Giants.

To cut the Collar City some slack, the Troy Trojans were vagabonds. In four years with the National League, Troy played games at Putnam Grounds, on present-day Starbucks Island, Watervliet and in Riverside Park on

Bonacker Island. Aside from moving around, the Trojans were perennial losers. Though there are five Hall of Fame players in Cooperstown who played in Troy — Buck Ewing, Dan Brouthers, Tim Keefe, Mickey Welch and Roger Connor — none of them enjoyed a winning season here.

In 1881, Connor was just a 23-yearold kid in his second season with Troy.

On some Saturday game in September, against a lackluster opponent in a season that didn’t mean much to anyone outside of Chicago, he stepped up to the plate with his team down by three runs in the bottom of the ninth and legged out an inside-the-park home run.

According to author Bill Lamb, Connor was an unassuming man who just loved to play baseball. Despite

A family walks across a pocket park in Rensselaer following a dedication ceremony commemorating a moment of baseball history from 138 years ago.

For nearly as long, fans erroneously attributed the feat as happening across the river in Albany. A local historian found the real answer just this year.

Pictures by Michael Hallisey / Spotlight Newspapers

developing into the game’s first power hitter, his contemporaries received more attention.

Broadway sang songs of King Kelly. Brouthers was dubbed “Big Dan” despite being one inch shorter and ten pounds lighter. Connor retired in 1897 having hit 138 home runs, more than anyone ever had. A career mark eclipsed by none other than Babe Ruth.

Ruth would become larger than life. His New York Yankees would supplant the Giants, a name inspired by Connor’s stature, as the toast of the town. The Giants’ own success whitewashed its history as a team that once called upstate home. Time would forget Connor, the Trojans and the Ruby Legs. Bonacker Island would be filled in. Rensselaer would slip off its East Albany moniker to take on its own identity, and Riverside Park would disappear.

In his Society for American Baseball Research article, Lamb wrote that Connor’s accomplishments on the field came back to light due to Hank Aaron. Fans knew who Aaron displaced from the top of the list in 1974, but didn’t know who Ruth replaced. With that answer followed renewed interest in Connor’s story.

“When the Good Lord takes me, one of the things I’m going to do is meet Roger Connor,” said Bryan Leahey, Rensselaer’s Third Ward Alderman. Leahey spearheaded the effort to commemorate the feat as “something that’s positive” for the city. “We’ve got Yankee Doodle, and we’ve got the first grand slam in Major League Baseball.”

Leahey obsessed over the topic, employing Times Union writer Paul Grondahl, and historians John Thorn and Matt Malette to help research. Malette knew a thing or two about obscurity. In addition to being a local historian, he long hide in virtual anonymity while posting amusing quips and anecdotes on Twitter as @ AlbanyArchives. Grondahl helped draw him out with a feature article in 2015.

Malette tripped over a loose thread in the story that had been widely accepted, that Connor’s home run was hit in Riverside Park in Albany. He was looking for an easy Spectrum News feature to produce in time for Opening Day when he approached Tony Olpaka, Albany’s city historian. Albany had a Riverside Park. As did Rensselaer and every city, town and village with a river running by. Albany’s park is buried underneath what is now I-787.

However, Opalka shared, it wasn’t built until 1903.

Malette recalls Opalka’s words. “Sounds like you’ve got the wrong Riverside Park.”

For a month, Malette drudged through old newspapers to find the Riverside Park in question. He found Rensselaer in time to air a television piece in 2016. But, he said, his research failed to provide definitive proof. It was, however, “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The story aired. As time went by, he’d flip through more newspapers. Last spring, Grondahl drew him out again with a feature in the Times Union.

This time, the story reached Major League Baseball and sparked a debate.

The debate took place in Jack’s Oyster House in a typical three-men in a room setting that included Malette, Thorn and Grondahl.

Grondahl, however, was just there for the story.

Thorn, baseball’s official historian, came to Albany to defend its place in the story. His résumé included several books, his contribution to Ken Burns’ PBS documentary, and finally putting to bed that the game was not invented by Abner Doubleday in Cooperstown. The two shared information back and forth. Malette said it still boiled down to the lack of definitive evidence.

After that night, Malette said he found something in a picture hanging on the wall in his home. A lithograph of Albany as it appeared in 1879. Rensselaer appeared on the far corner, as did the island, with a sketch of a baseball diamond encircled by a fence and a grandstand.

He went to the state library and pulled the original article that covered the very game.

“It was some of the most glorious black and white I had ever seen,” said Malette. “The article started with, ‘Across the river from Albany in Riverside Park on Saturday…’ The mystery was officially solved with that one line.” He shared the news with Thorn and the argument was settled.

The story of this unassuming kid who hit a unique home run for an underachieving baseball team had brought attention to a city often left out when people refer to the Capital District as the Tri-City area of Albany, Troy and Schenectady. Albany had the Erie Canal, the State Capitol and its baseball Senators. Troy had its iron works, Uncle Sam and its Trojans.

Rensselaer had its chemical plant, an electric rail and a train station named “Albany.” But, on Sept. 10, 2019, it took back a piece of baseball history that belonged to her. It made Leahey choke up at the podium. Though Malette promised he’d keep his composure, he failed at the end.

“It hit me,” he said, “138 years ago. Here.

At this spot. Right now. That happened. It was right here. We’re standing on it. …

History can be great if you let it wash over you.”

OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 11

Senior calendars LifePath

formerly Senior Services of Albany www.seniorservicesofalbany.com 28 Colvin Ave., Suite 2, Albany (518) 465-3322

Westview Bang your drum

To RSVP, please call Nora at (518)482-2120.

Cohoes Living well

Come and beat the drums, this fun-sit down exercise will help build community connections, enhance your mood and give you more mental clarity. Limited to the first 12 people who sign up. Once a month for five months.

To reserve your place, call Nora at 518-482-2120.

Thursday, Oct. 10

Three sessions through the Alzheimer’s Association covering healthy living for the brain and body, effective communication strategies. For more information, please call Beth at (518) 235-2420.

Halloween lunch, costume contest

Livingston

Bang your drum

Thursday, Oct. 31

Monday, Oct. 21

Dress up and win a prize for the scariest or funniest costume.

Come and beat the drums,

this fun-sit down exercise will help build community connections, enhance your mood and give you more mental clarity. Limited to the first 12 people who sign up. Once a month for five months.

For more information, please call Will at (518) 508-5944.

Watervliet October 5th Craft Fair

come and learn how to skype with your grandchildren, go on Facebook, upload and download pictures and much more. Only 12 seats available, $10 for all five sessions. If you attend all five sessions you will receive $5 back at the last class.

For more information please call Bob at (518)512-2725 ext.

102.

Frank Sinatra Tribute Concert

Pick up some unique holiday gifts, hand-knit times, jewelry, and more. There will also be some homemade baked goods.

For more information please call Kath at (518) 273-4422.

LifePath Living Center Get Connected Tuesday, Oct. 1

A five-week technology class

Thursday, Oct. 24, at 1:30 p.m..

Join us for an exciting afternoon of music as you enjoy the sounds of Frank Sinatra.

Patrick Tobin will be there to delight and thrill you with his musical performance. Patrick has been critically acclaimed internationally. Please register on or before Tuesday, Oct. 1. For more information or to register, please contact Nora at (518) 482-2120.

Want to make a difference in the lives of Southern Saratoga’s seniors?

VOLUNTEER TODAY to provide supportive services such as friendly visiting, transportation, and shopping. Call Ava at 518-399-4624 to volunteer!

Care Links volunteers provide supportive services at no cost to seniors 60+ in Southern Saratoga County.

518-399-3262

Our Wellness Express Van provides free rides for seniors to medical appointments. Available in select Southern Saratoga communities.

518-399-4624

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12 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

A Patriot Remembers

Growing Older, Not Up

S

Schools, Apples, and Fall Sports and Grandparents

ome grandparents will recall seeing their grandchildren off for their first day of kindergarten. Some are fortunate to watch them grow, and see them off to college.

Having never known either of my grandfathers, I cherish moments spent with my grandchildren. Many grandparents only get to see their grandchildren a few times a year because of travel distances.

It is so unfortunate (or in rare cases maybe a blessing).

I experienced for the first time my grandson going away to college in Syracuse.

At least Syracuse is only a two-hour drive home on the

Thruway. Alex plays the guitar and returned home for his final concert sponsored by the School of Rock. Every one asked “how you doing?” I was a little comical and said, “You even look smarter.”

Remember when some kids would bring an apple to school for their teacher. The memorable and enjoyable days of ‘Indian Summer’ were great for apple picking with the children or grandchildren.

October was always special to me because that’s when baseball and football collided. In my school days, all the World Series games were played during the day and kids brought radios to school.

I became a devoted fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1955.

That’s when they beat the New York Yankees after losing four such attempts against them starting in 1947. Johnny Podres won two games, including the decesivie Game 7 of that series, later resided in Queensbury.

He was a quiet star in Yankee country. His son was a harness driver for years at Saratoga Harness Track. I have a special heartfelt memory every October.

The football season was in action in October and TV switched from weekly baseball games to professional and college football. College football was bigger than the pros back then and some say it still is.

Frank DeSorbo I recall seeing on TV the greatest running back in Jim Brown. He was exciting to watch when the game involved more running than throwing.

That all changed thanks in part to a team out of Flushing, and a cocky quarterback nicknamed “Broadway Joe.” The New York Jets drafted Joe Namath out of Alabama. A conservative football program coached by the late-Bear Bryant. Namath, however, was far from conservative. He changed the game and football’s popularity.

The grandparent’s national song should be “I Am Growing Older But Not Up.” See it on YouTube by Jimmy Buffett.

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OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 13

Local History

Revisiting Al-Tro Park to access the amusement park.

Today, it is near impossible to find any physical traces of it left as what stands on its

By DIEGO CAGARA former property are sections of Interstate 787 and a few cagarad@spotlightnews.com businesses along Simmons MENANDS — Older Road — sandwiched between generations may remember Broadway and the Hudson the Al-Tro Park, a historic River. amusement park on upper Colonie’s Town Historian Patroon Island in Menands Kevin Franklin said he is that existed from the late 19th unsure what year it technically to the early 20th century. It first opened and closed, as his was known under different office had limited preserved names like “Pleasure Island,” historic documents about the “Dreamland,” “Midway Beach park.

Park” and “Lagoon Island However, an archived June Park.”

30, 1985 issue of the Troy At the time, it was separated Record indicated the park from the mainland by the opened on May 27, 1907 — Memorial Day. It added that T:7”Hudson River and the Erie Canal, making people take an it was run and managed by electric trolley or steamship Max Rosen with an investment

Menands once home to thriving fun park

This 1909 photograph shows a crowded Al-Tro Park midway that included a penny arcade and a rollercoaster.

Kevin Franklin

WAYS FOR YOU TO STAY POSITIVE

STAYING CONNECTED

T:4.875”

14 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

restaurant, two bath houses, a shed and office likely for onsite employees, and a loading dock for visitors to enter or leave the park via steamboat.

Franklin said the amusement park had its own police department.

He showed a 1909 photograph, indicating it had nine members that year and were collectively known as the “Al-Tro Park Police Force.”

The aforementioned Troy Record article noted that the police department had started in 1907 with 15 men though.

Franklin said the Al-Tro Park was among numerous amusement parks and recreational areas along the Hudson River between Troy and New York City during the early 20th century.

“The river was actually polluted at the time because there was no such thing as a waste treatment plant so people and cities just dumped their waste into the river,” he said. “But it didn’t prevent the

river from being a spot for people to enjoy the nice cool breeze, steamboat rides, food and bands onboard, and taking trips. While it was a mostly pleasant experience, many people ended up with hepatitis from the water though.”

The park’s decline began when circa-1912 flooding affected many communities along the Hudson, including Troy and Menands, and the build-up of ice from the winters on the river also negatively affected Al-Tro Park.

A fire in 1913 destroyed the boardwalk and park. A new Al-Tro Park was built inland to just west of Broadway in Menands sometime in the 1920s, said Franklin, and was renamed Mid-City Park.

Remaining open through the 1950s, he said it included an Olympic-sized pool, a sand beach, and rides like a rollercoaster and a roller-skating rink.

However, Franklin said no African-Americans were

allowed in Mid-City Park and around 1956 or 1957, a young black woman was denied entry.

According to him, she sued the park and this was eventually brought to the state Supreme Court, where the latter sided with the woman on the basis that the park is a public venue.

When the park’s thenowner did not support the decision, Franklin said, “the Court threatened like fire that would bankrupt it and they closed the park out of spite.”

Although it finally closed around 1960, when asked why the amusement park concept was able to stay alive for decades, Franklin simply concluded, “Menands is a great place for people to leave the city and it’s nice that it’s between Albany and Troy.”

While historic records of the park may seem scarce, his office still contains numerous photos to remind locals that they once had their own version of Coney Island.

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Community Computers

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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of around $100,000; Rosen believed it had “eclipsed Coney Island. The great has been accomplished in three months with a force of 400 workmen, all experts.”

The name “Al-Tro Park” or sometimes “Altro Park,” is a portmanteau of Albany and Troy, the two neighboring cities the amusement park mainly served. Franklin said it was owned by the AlbanyTroy Steamboat Company and admission was either a nickel or a dime to get in.

According to a historic tax document which listed the number and dimensions of each ride, booth and amenity inside, the amusement park took up 45 acres and contained 23 attractions. These attractions included a 900-by-40-foot boardwalk, a dance hall, a pony track, a merry-go-round, a two-story castle structure, an amphitheatre, a cane stand, a shooting gallery, a popcorn booth, a penny arcade building and a photo gallery. Amenities included six jacket booths, a

OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 15

Crossword & Crypto Answers on Page 18 Clues Across 1. Hindu month 5. Fashion accessories 11. Prong 12. Clever 16. Network of nerves 17. Helps the police (abbr.)

18. Russian lake 19. Not allowed into evidence 24. Indicates position 25. Without clothes 26. Geological times 27. Folk singer DiFranco 28. Buddy 29. __ but don’t break 30. Father 31. Cast a shadow over 33. Afghan city 34. Concluding speech 38. Type of creed 39. French Revolution image “The Death of __” 40. Syrian president al-__ 43. Soviet composer 44. Dove into 45. Famed Broadway producer 49. Leavened bread 50. Ruling family House of __ 51. Planet 53. Publicity 54. Manifesting approval 56. Fern genus 58. Larry and Curly’s pal 59. Company officer 60. Expressed loathing for 63. Birthplace of Constantine 64. People from Asia 65. “Hercules” voice Donovan

Clues Down

CRYPTO F UN

1. Central hall or court 2. Italian city

3. All there 4. Seamstress’s tool 5. Sends after 6. Used in herbal medicine 7. Specific gravity 8. A male 9. Hydroxyls + 2C 10. Trigonometric function 13. Archaic language (abbr.)

14. East African native 15. Satisfy 20. Mother 21. Where innate impulses are processed 22. “Rule, Britannia” composer 23. Not good 27. Swiss river 29. A-Team member Baracus 30. Calendar month 31. Drunk 32. Mercury 33. Concealed 34. Give forth 35. Contradiction in terms 36. Middle Eastern country 37. On the __ 38. Sodium 40. One who attended a school 41. Supporters 42. South Dakota 44. American brewer Adams, Sr. 45. Type of attorney 46. Absence of oxygen 47. Most sheer 48. Human soul, mind or spirit 50. Flies high above 51. University of Dayton 52. Dorm moderator (abbr.)

54. Intestinal pouches 55. Assents to 57. Delaware 61. Robots are a byproduct of this 62. Tantalum

Halloween

WORD SEARCH

Solve the code to discover words related to scary things.

Each number corresponds to a letter. (Hint: 8 = e)

16 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

CANDY DRACULA CARVE FRANKENSTEIN COSTUME GHOST DOOR TO DOOR JACK-O-LANTERN

KNIGHT MAKE-UP MONSTER OCTOBER

PRINCESS TRICK OR TREAT VAMPIRE SCARY WITCH SKELETON ZOMBIE THIRTY-FIRST

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

Coffee and Conversation

Fridays, Oct. 4, 18 & 25, at 1 p.m.

The Delmariners: Oct. 4 A folk concert sing-along with local musicians Phil Teunim, Ron Tweedy and Will Vail, 1 p.m.

Sonny and Perley: Oct. 18 Local entertainers perform a mixed Program of songs from the 1920s through 1950s, 1 p.m.

To Life! Part VII: Oct. 25 Richard Feldman returns to showcase songs from popular American musicals about optimism and following your dreams, 1 p.m.

Programs are followed by a coffee break. Co-sponsored by Bethlehem Senior Projects, Inc.

Make It Yourself Monday and Tuesday, Oct. 7 & 8

Fleece Hats to Sew and Share: Monday, Oct. 7 Sew an easy fleece hat for yourself and then make one to donate to charity, 6 p.m. Bring 1/2 yard of fleece for yours, and we’ll provide a 1/2 yard for the one to be donated.

Fall Leaf Prints: Tuesday, Oct. 8 Use fall leaves and some paint to create beautiful prints, 2 p.m.

Sign up online or call.

Dining with Diabetes

Wednesdays, Oct. 9, 16, 23 & 30, at 6:30 p.m.

An educator from Cornell

Cooperative Extension will share ways for diabetics to manage their health through menu planning, carb counting, portion control and label reading, 6:30 p.m. Food samples will be available. Come to one or more sessions; different topics each week.

Open Sewing

Monday, Oct. 7, at 6 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.

Maurice Thornton:

An African American Family History

UPCOMING

Monthly Deadlines November Deadline:

December Deadline:

OC T

7

NO

4

V

Thursday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m.

Local author Dr. Maurice Thornton will talk about how he researched, wrote and published his family’s history, focusing on their lives in a segregated Alabama and the Civil Rights Era, 7 p.m. A time for questions will follow his talk.

All ages welcome!

January Deadline:

DEC

2

Cards of Hope

Friday, Oct. 18, at 3 p.m.

Finally, we’ll be holding a Cards of Hope event at 3 p.m., where you can create cards with kind and inspiring messages to be given to seniors at local assisted living facilities.

Hiking El Camino de Santiago Sunday, Oct. 20, at 2 p.m.

Brendan Mooney of Delmar and Suzanne Holt share their experiences hiking El Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail.

February Deadline:

JAN

6

To advertise in one or more of these issues please call:

Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 110806_4

October 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.com 17

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

Clifton Park Senior Center Chorus Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Our chorus is looking for you to sing with us. Come join the fun. Call 518-885-1570.

Fall Basket Party Sunday, Oct. 6 at 1 p.m.

This event is open to the public. Tickets must be

Periodic Activities

Call for dates and times.

Reservations are required.

Mondays

Tap Intermediate, Jazz Dance, Chair Yoga, Discussion Group, Clogging, Quilting, Osteo Exercise, Soul Line Dancing.

Tuesdays

purchased in advance at the Center as space is limited.

Adopt a Soldier Wednesdays, at 9 a.m.

Oct. 16, 23, 30 & Nov. 6

Be a part of our Soldier Stockings Service Project, creating felt stockings and fill them with games, treats and practical items. Call 518-3831343 for more.

oirs, Hand & Foot (cards), Dice 6-5-4, Rummikub, Crochet & Knitting, Poker, Osteo Exercise

Thursdays

Exercise to Tape, Pool/ Billiards, Chorus, Yoga, Watercolor & Sketch, Legal Assistance by appointment, Seton Health Seniorcize, Duplicate Bridge, MahJongg, Pinochle, Bunco or Pinochle – learn to play

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Chess, Checkers & Backgammon. Exercise to Tape, Fridays LCR or Dice 3000-learn to Orchestra on the Complay, Pinochle, Pool/Billiards, mon, Woodcarving, Tap Duplicate Bridge, Tai Chi, Advanced, Ballet, Dominoes, Scrabble Center Big Band, Diabetes Wednesday Support Group, BINGO, Exercise to Tape, Senior Lunch and a Movie, BeadInvestment Group, Social ing Buddies, Scrabble, Osteo Bridge, Memories to MemExercise.

18 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019

Niskayuna Senior Center

2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969

Mondays

10 a.m. — Zumba Gold

Tuesdays

9 a.m. to noon — Tom’s computer class (first and third Tuesdays each month) 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi 10 a.m. — Cards, bridge and Wii Bowling 10:30 a.m. — Line Dancing Noon — Lunch 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Lectures, trivia or games 1 p.m. — MVP Chair Moves

Thursdays

9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi

10 a.m. — Cards, Wii Bowling and Bridge 10:30 a.m. — Bocce and Pickle Ball Noon — Lunch 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Lectures, trivia, games or Bingo

Fridays

10 a.m. to noon — Beginner Mahjong 10:30 a.m. — Alzheimer’s Support Group (first Friday of each month).

11 a.m. to noon — CDPHP Chair Pilates (only on Sept.

20).

NOTE: No Thursday classes on Oct. 17.

Upcoming Events BlueShield Lecture — Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 1 p.m.

Birthday Bash — Thursday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m.

Art Out at Lions Park — Friday, Oct. 4.

Car Fit Sunnyview — Tuesday, Oct. 8, 11 a.m.

Walmart Vision — Thursday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m.

Fraud & Scams — Thursday, Oct. 10, at 12:30 p.m.

Home & Health Fair — Thursday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m.

Pumpkin Day Treat — Tuesday, Oct 22, 12:30 p.m.

Citizen Preparedness — Thursday, Oct. 24, at 12:30 p.m.

Defensive Driving Class — Sunday, Oct. 27, at 10 a.m.

Halloween Party Costume contest & prizes — Thursday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m.

Men’s Group — Friday, Sept. 27, at 10 a.m.

28th ANNUAL

CAPITAL REGION

Friday, October 18, 2019

Senior Expo 1 9am - 2pm

Crossgates Mall (lower level)

COVER

october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 19

20 Senior Spotlight — October 2019

A name you can trust.

For information, call (518) 641-3400 or 1-888-519-4455 TTY/TDD: 711

Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc. This is an advertisement.

Y0019_17_1684_C October 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.com 21

CDPHP® is proud to once again serve as the Ti t l e S p o n s o r o f t h e C a p i t a l R e g i o n S e n i o r E x p o Known for its outstanding quality and value, CDPHP features a variety of Medicare Advantage plans to residents of upstate New York.

CDPHP offers individual Medicare HMO and PPO plans with and without prescription drug coverage that allow members to take advantage of a large network of physicians and have peace-of-mind when traveling. Each plan is backed by local customer service and a commitment to health and wellness.

All CDPHP Medicare Advantage members enjoy the benefits of Medicare Part A and B plus important extras like hearing, vision, and dental coverage.

To help members live their healthiest life, CDPHP offers no-cost access to numerous local gyms, including the Rudy A. Ciccotti Family

Recreation Center, SilverSneakers® locations, the Capital District YMCAs, the Glens Falls YMCA, and the Beltrone Living Center.

Members can also earn Life Points® through CaféWell® which can be redeemed for gift cards to local and online retailers.

please call us toll free at 1-888-5194455 (TTY: 711) Monday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.*

CDPHP Medicare Advantage members can see a doctor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with online video visits through Doctor On Demand.

*Our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week, October 1 – March 31. From April 1 – September 30, Monday – Friday, our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. A voice messaging service is used weekends, afterhours, and federal holidays. Calls

All of this is available for as little as $0 per month. Learn more and enroll at www.cdphp.com/medicare.

CDPHP® is an HMO and PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CDPHP Medicare Advantage depends on contract renewal.

CDPHP can discuss Medicare plan options, help you choose a plan, assist with enrollment, and show you how to maximize your Medicare coverage. If you have questions,

Price Chopper / Market 32 Pharmacy to host Flu Vaccine Clinic

Price Chopper/Market 32 Pharmacy will once again host a flu vaccine clinic throughout the expo, attendees are welcome to stop by the Price Chopper/ Market 32 booth to receive a flu shot which is fully covered by Medicare Part B. Don’t forget to bring your insurance card. Seniors are encouraged to get their flu shot by the end of October so stop by to be

22 Senior Spotlight — October 2019

ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES AND FIGHT THE FLU FLU SHOTS AVAILABLE. JUST VISIT OUR PHARMACY. NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY.

Where available. Must be at least 9 years of age to receive flu vaccine in MA, NY and PA, and at least 18 years of age to receive flu vaccine in CT, NH and VT Pharmacies. Stop by the Pharmacy for further details.

Pharmacies are not available in all stores. Visit pricechopper.com for store locations.

October 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.com 23

Offering Over 100 FREE Educational Programs on Aging Related Topics • Caregiving • Health • Housing • Legal • Technology • Professional Development Albany Guardian Society is a proud sponsor of LifePath’s 28th Annual Capital Region SENIOR EXPO held at Crossgates Mall on October 18, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and will be offering the following: Gizmos & Gadgets: Handy Devices to Help Seniors Remain Independent 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Introduction to Technology Devices 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Founded in 1852, Albany Guardian Society (AGS) is a not-for-profit charitable foundation with a mission to engage in a wide range of endeavors including education, research, information and community engagement that will improve the quality of life for seniors, their family members, and caregivers of seniors.

Visit www.albanyguardiansociety.org to learn more about Albany Guardian Society and to sign up to receive emails about all of AGS’s programs and forums.

14 Corporate Woods Blvd., Suite 102, Albany, NY • 518-434-2140 • www.albanyguardiansociety.org 24 Senior Spotlight — october 2019

28th ANNUAL CAPTIAL REGION Join LifePath (formerly Senior Services of Albany) and CDPHP for the 28th Annual Capital Region Senior Expo on Friday, October 18, 2019 at Crossgates Mall in Albany. This daylong event will kick off at 9am in the lower level hallway of Crossgates Mall - between JCPenney and Apple Crossgates. The Capital Region Senior Expo will have something to offer for adults of all ages and admission is FREE!!

Older adults, caregivers, healthcare workers and those with aging loved ones are increasingly recognizing the importance of quality of life for the older adults - one of the nation’s fastest growing population segments in our community. The Capital Region Senior Expo, strives to provide quality resources and information to countless seniors throughout the Capital Region.

Price Chopper will once again host a free flu vaccine clinic during the Expo, attendees are welcome to stop by the

Price Chopper booth to receive a flu shot which is fully covered by Medicare Part B. Please bring your insurance

card with you. If you do not have an insurance card, flu shots will still be available.

them for their support allowing LifePath to make the Expo possible!

There will be more than 50 booths that will be staffed by knowledgeable experts, all of who will have time to answer your questions. Throughout the day, there will be a food tasting, entertainment, classes, a raffle and much much more!

We look forward to spending the day with you at the 28th Annual Capital Region Senior Expo!!

The Albany Guardian Society will once again be hosting classes to help individuals remain independent.

Our Presenting Sponsor, CDPHP, will have their team on hand to help answer your insurance questions.

When visiting their booth, be sure to thank

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.

Now Open!!

Tai Chi | Yoga | Art | Creative writing | Technology classes | Book and card clubs | Inter-generational programs |so much more!

Lunch is served Monday - Friday at 12:30 pm, prior reservations are required by 1:30 pm the day prior to the luncheon you are attending, to make reservations please call 518-512-2725 x 102.

For more information, contact Robert Bonville 518.512.2725 x 102 rbonville@seniorservicesofalbany.com

DEPAUL HOUSING MANAGEMENT

Celebrating 40 Years of Management

Let us be… ...your new HOME!!

Now Accepting Applications 1-2 Bedroom Apartments and Cottages | Affordable Rent Based on Income | Professionally Managed | Health and Wellness | Social Activities | Community Computers | Fully Accessible | Pet Friendly | Smoke Free Age and Income Restrictions Apply For More Information and Applications Please Visit: www.depaulhousing.com october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 25

Do you have questions about Medicare or your health insurance?

To obtain services, contact your local office (or department) for the aging at 1.800.701.0501 (you will be asked to enter you zip code) or 1.800.342.9871 or visit www.aging.ny.gov

For general information call 1.800.Medicare (1.800.633.4227) for the most up‐to‐date information on Medicare, visit www.medicare.gov.

For more information, contact Kelly Casler 518.935.2307| kcasler@seniorservicesofalbany.com HIICAP is supported in part by the Albany County Department of Aging, the New York State Department of Aging and the Administration for Community Living.

Life just got better!

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Cayuga Plaza ‐ Cohoes 518‐237‐4430 Hudson Shores ‐ Watervliet 518‐273‐6685 Summit Towers ‐ Schenectady 518‐372‐5422 Thurlow Terrace – Albany 518‐462‐1355 26 Senior Spotlight — October 2019

health insurance built around

me

Learn more at joinMVPmedicare.com or call 1-800-324-3899 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220).

Medicare Variant Social Adult Day Program Do you provide care for an older adult?

Are you concerned for their safety at home?

Do you worry that they spend too much time alone?

The LifePath Social Adult Day Programs offer a structured and safe environment for older adults to socialize with others while participating in an array of engaging and stimulating activities. Activities include arts & crafts, trivia, creative & interactive games, exercise, and so much more! Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are provided daily.

HERE’S TO A FEARLESS FUTURE. At BlueShield of Northeastern New York, we believe in what’s on the horizon. As a community-based, not-for-profit health plan, we continue to work toward a shared vision and new opportunities for everyone.

BlueShield of Northeastern New York is a division of HealthNow New York Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

bsneny.com

Get Connected...

5 week technology class! Come and learn how to Skype with your grandchildren, go on Facebook, upload and download pictures and much more!!

Only 12 seats available. $10 for all five sessions.

Attend all 5 sessions, get $5.00 back at the last class.

Wednesday, October 16th Wednesday, November 13th (5 weeks) 11 am - 12 pm followed by lunch* LifePath Living Center @ 80 Central (Albany, NY)

Two convenient locations: Cohoes Companions: Cohoes Senior Center|10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes Newgate: Bethany Reformed Church|760 New Scotland Ave., Albany

For more information, contact Beth Owen, LMSW 518.6943511 | bowen@seniorservicesofalbany.com

For more information, contact Robert Bonville 518.512.2725 x 102 rbonville@seniorservicesofalbany.com The Congregate Meal Program is supported in part by the City of Albany, the Albany County Department of Aging, the New York State Department of Aging and the Administration for Community Living.

october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 27

LifePath Living Center @ Westview presents...

Frank Sinatra Tribute Concert Join us for an exciting afternoon of music as you enjoy the sounds of Frank Sinatra. Patrick Tobin will be there to delight and thrill you with his musical performance!!

Thursday, October 24, 2019 1:30pm | $24 per person Albany Jewish Community Center 340 Whitehall Rd. | Albany, NY

PROUD TO SUPPORT THE CAPITAL REGION SENIOR EXPO

CDTA.ORG

Bus will pick up / drop off From LifePath Living Center @ Westview (680 Central Ave., Albany) and LifePath Living Center @ Cohoes (10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes) For more information or to Register contact Nora Nicholson 518.482.2120 nnicholson@seniorservicesofalbany.com

YOUR PARTNER IN SENIOR CARE AND SERVICES Adult Day Programs Alzheimer’s Services Enriched Housing/Adult Homes Home Care Hospice Independent Senior Living Nursing Homes PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) Rehabilitation Services

sphp.com

28 Senior Spotlight — october 2019

28th ANNUAL

CAPITAL REGION

2019 Expo Schedule 9am - 2pm

Vendors

9am - 2pm

Flu Shots‌at the Price Chopper / Market 32 Booth Gizmos & Gadgets: Handy Devices to Help Seniors Remain Independent

10am - 10:45am

Learn about products and devices that can help people as they age. This 45 minute program will demonstrate many useful tools and products to help older adults remain independent.

Presenter: Gretchen Moore Simmons, Assistant Executive Director, LifePath of Albany

10:30am

Meals on Wheels Food Tasting Introduction to Technology Devices

11am - 11:45am

What is the difference between an iPod and an iPad? What is a Smartphone? So many devices in this new world of technology! Learn what device is best for you and how you can harness the power of technology and use it to your best advantage. This class will cover device options, communication methods, and more.

Presenter: Eleonora Morrell, Training and Development Specialist, MicroKnowledge, Inc.

11:30am - 1pm

Entertainment * Times and speakers are subject to change october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 29

28th ANNUAL

CAPITAL REGION

2019 Vendors ABLE CORRECTIVE CHIROPRACTIC 959 New Loudon Road Latham, NY 12110 518-218-5411 www.ablexperience.org

ALBANY GUARDIAN SOCIETY 12 Corporate Woods Blvd.

Albany, NY 12211 518-434-2140 www.albanyguardiansociety.org

CAPITAL DISTRICT APARTMENTS 6 Executive Park Drive Albany, NY 12203 518-273-6685

ACCENT HEALTH CARE SERVICES 820 5th Avenue Troy, NY 12182 518-237-2700 www.accenthealthcareservices.com

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION NORTHEASTERN NEW YORK 4 Pine West Plaza, Suite 405 Albany, NY 12205 518-867-4999 www.alz.org/northeasternny

CAPITAL DISTRICT SENIOR SPOTLIGHT 341 Delaware Avenue Delmar, NY 12054 518-439-4949 www.cdseniorspotlight.com

AETNA MEDICARE 15 Columbia Circle Albany, NY 12203 1-800-872-3862 www.aetna.com

BAPTIST HEALTH SYSTEM 297 N. Ballston Avenue Scotia, NY 12302 518-370-4700 www.baptthealth.com

CDPHP 500 Patroon Creek Blvd.

Albany, NY 12206 1-888-519-7898 www.cdphp-medicare-plans.com

ALBANY COUNTY DEPARTMENT FOR AGING 162 Washington Avenue.,6th Floor Albany, NY 12203 518-447-7198 www.albanycounty.com

BLUE SHIELD OF NENY 40 Century Hill Drive Latham, NY 12110 518-220-5722 www.bsneny.com

CDTA 110 Watervliet Avenue Albany, NY 12206 518-482-8822 www.cdta.org

30 Senior Spotlight — october 2019

28th ANNUAL

CAPITAL REGION

2019 Vendors CAPITAL IMAGING 1001 Loudon Road Latham, NY 12110 518-221-4501 www.capimaging.com

FIDELIS CARE NEW YORK 997 Central Avenue Albany, NY 12205 1-888-343-3547 www.fideliscare.org

KINGSWAY COMMUNITY 323 Kings Road Schenectady, NY 12304 518-393-4117 www.kingswaycommunity.com

CONSUMER DIRECTED CHOICES 7 Washington Square Albany, NY 12205 518-464-0810 www.cdchoices.org

GET BUSY LIVIN’ TRAVEL 187 South Main Avenue Albany, NY 12208 518-424-2240 www.getbusylivintravel.com

LEAFFILTER NORTH, LLC 1595 Georgetown Road Hudson, OH 44236 800-726-7703 x 1236 www.leaffilter.com

ELDERWOOD 185 Old Military Road Lake Placid, NY 12946 888-826-9963 www.elderwood.com

HERZOG LAW FIRM PC 7 Southwoods Blvd.

Albany, NY 12211 518-465-7581 www.herzoglaw.com

LOUDONVILLE ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE 298 Albany Shaker Road Loudonville, NY 12211 518-463-4398 www.loudonvillealr.com

DEPAUL HOUSING MANAGEMENT 10 Carondelet Drive Watervliet, NY 12189 518-389-6335 www.depaulhousing.com

INTERIM HEALTHCARE 1735 Central Avenue, Suite 102 Albany, NY 12205 518-452-3655 www.interimhealthcare.com

MEIER LAW FIRM, PLLC 10 Utica Avenue Latham, NY 12110 518-313-7803 www.meierlawpllc.com

EMPIRE BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD 11 Corporate Wood Blvd.

Albany, NY 12211 518-367-4737 www.empireblue.com

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE 1B Rapp Road Albany, NY 12203 518-437-0014 www.homeinstead.com

Friday, October 18, 2019 9am - 2pm Crossgates Mall, Albany

october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 31

28th ANNUAL

CAPITAL REGION

2019 Vendors, continued MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION IN NEW YORK STATE, INC. 194 Washington Avenue, Suite 415 Albany, NY 12210 518-434-0439 www.mhanys.org

NORTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION OF THE BLIND AT ALBANY 301 Washington Avenue Albany, NY 12206 518-463-1211 www.naba-vision.org

THE GRAND AT GUILDERLAND 428 Route 146 Altamont, NY 12009 518-561-5141 www.thegrandhealthcare.com

MOBILITY WORKS Colonie Plaza 1892 Central Avenue, Suite 25 Albany, NY 12205 518-346-9059 www.mobilityworks.com

OASIS SENIOR ADVISORS 26 Marwood Street, 2nd Floor Albany, NY 12209 518-930-6416 www.oasissenioradvisors.com

TOUCHING HEARTS AT HOME 251 New Karner Road Albany, NY 12205 518-250-6867 www.touchinghearts.com/capitaldistrict

MVP HEALTHCARE 625 State Street Schenectady, NY 12305 518-370-4793 www.mvphealthcare.com

PRICE CHOPPER / MARKET 32 PRICE CHOPPER PHARMACY 461 Nott Street Schenectady, NY 12308 1-800-666-7667 www.pricechopper.com

UNITED HEALTHCARE MEDICARE & RETIREMENT 803 Duanesburg Road Schenectady, NY 12303 518-355-3428 www.uhc.com

NASCENTIA HEALTH 1050 West Genesee Street Syracuse, NY 13204 1-888-477-HOME www.477home.org

ST. PETER’S HEALTH PARTNERS 315 S. Manning Blvd.

Albany, NY 12208 518-525-1232 www.sphp.com

WELLCARE 166 South Manning Blvd.

Albany, NY 12208 518-453-5440 coachval57@yahoo.com

For more information, or to purchase tickets / sponsorship Call 518.465.3322 32 Senior Spotlight — october 2019

WHAT IS THE TELEPHONE REASSURANCE PROGR AM?

The Telephone Reassurance Program is designed to help home bound older adult feel less isolated. Volunteers are matched with an older adult based on interests and location.

If you are interested in finding out about this valuable program either to receive a call or to become a volunteer, please email Kelly Casler kcasler@seniorservicesofalbany.com or call 518-235-2420.

What is the Medicare Savings Program… and do you qualify?

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a program that will provide reimbursement of your Medicare Part B premium. The premium is currently $135.50 for 2019. To qualify, your income must be below $1,426/Single or $1,923/ Couple, per month. New York State does not require you to claim your assets for this program. If you are enrolled in the MSP program, you are automatically enrolled in the Extra Help Program, a Federal Program that will help you pay for your Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs. This program will also lower your prescription drug costs at the pharmacy.

To apply or for more information, please contact Kelly Casler, LifePath Health Care Coordinator/ Albany County HIICAP Coordinator at 518-935-2307.

When it comes to Medicare,

one size definitely does not fit all.

I’m Ken Howansky, a licensed sales representative in the Albany - Saratoga Region.

What works for your neighbor, may not work for you. UnitedHealthcare offers a variety of Medicare plans with options that go beyond Original Medicare to fit your individual needs.

I’m here to make it easier for you to understand your choices. I can give you guidance in choosing a plan from Medicare Advantage to Medicare supplement to prescription drug plans.

Now’s the time to explore the possibilities. Give me a call!

Ken Howansky

Licensed Sales Representative

518-355-3428, TTY 711 UHCMedicareSolutions.com october 2019 — cDSeniorSpotlight.com 33

Visit our administrative office or www.seniorservicesofalbany.com to complete an application

28 Colvin Avenue, Suite 2 | Albany, NY 12206 518-465-3322

At the Meier Law Firm, we help our clients plan for the future. Our attorneys truly listen to our clients to understand their needs and objectives. From these essential conversations, we prepare Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorneys, Health Care Proxies and Living Wills specifically tailored to meet each client’s specific goals.

WE’LL SEE YOU THERE! at the...

28TH ANNUAL CAPITAL REGION

We also understand the challenges people face after a loved one's death. Because of this, our goal is to make navigating through the estate or trust administration of a loved one as easy as possible.

When you need practical, reliable and compassionate legal counsel, call the Meier Law Firm.

Our goal is to build long lasting relationships with our clients and their families.

At the Meier Law Firm, it’s not just business, it is personal.

10 Utica Avenue, Latham, NY 12110 518.313.7809 christina@meierlawpllc.com www.themeierlawfirm.com

34 Senior Spotlight — october 2019

Friday, October 18 9am - 2pm Crossgates Mall (lower level)

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from all of us at

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OCTOBER 2019 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 35

Medicare+Medicaid= More Benefits for You! You may be eligible for additional money-saving benefits through our Dual Advantage plans, including: • Monthly OTC Card up to $100

(to pay for items like OTC medications, toothpaste, incontinence supplies, and more)

• Transportation

Medicare Card NEW MEDICARE HEALTH INSURANCE

OR

Name/Nombre

JOHN L SMITH

Medicare Number/Número de Medicare

1XX0-XX0-XX00 Entitled to/Con derecho a

HOSPITAL (PART A) MEDICAL (PART B)

PLE SAM

Coverage starts/Cobertura empieza

01-01-2018 01-01-2018

Medicaid/Common Benefit Identification Card (CBIC) NEW

• Dental • Care Management support • Top-quality doctors and hospitals

OR

• Discounts for hearing devices* • and many more!

For a complete listing of plans in your service area, contact the plan. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Out-of-network services may require more out-of-pocket expense than in-network services. Benefit restrictions apply. Fidelis Legacy Plan is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Fidelis Legacy Plan depends on contract renewal. *Fidelis Legacy Plan partners with TruHearing for discounted purchases of hearing devices.

Call us today! 1-800-860-8707 TTY: 711

Monday–Sunday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. from October 1–March 31 Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. from April 1–September 30

www.fideliscare.org/medicare

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36 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — OCTOBER 2019