The first ever Healthy, Wealthy and Wise Extravaganza, sponsored in part by the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce and held at the Pratt Pavilion for Rehabilitation and Healing on Sept. 22, proved to be a huge success.
Those who attended the event were presented with a wide array of vendors, all focusing on various ways in which life can be more healthful and less stressful, especially for those in the aging population and their caregivers. An on-going selection of expert guest speakers covered topics such as cardiovascular health, nutrition, estate planning and more.
Volunteers from the Glen Cove Senior Center were on hand to let everyone know about all the wonderful programs available for seniors in our area, including their Life Long Learning Program. "The Senior Center was my life saver," said Betty McHale, who moved here from California 10 years ago. "I'm a people person and I knew no one but my daughter. Now I am busy all the time."
Also very helpful was Kathleen Foster, assistant coordinator of the Senior Citizen Service Project of the Nassau County Office for the Aging. Foster offered a wealth of information and distributed booklets on the continuum of care available for older persons in the county and pamphlets that answered just about any question one might have regarding Medicare.
Rosemarie Davidson, owner of Caring Transitions, a company that assists with all aspects of downsizing and relocation, echoed what many vendors had to say. "Many older people get overwhelmed. Their adult children work full time or live out of the state," said Davidson. "They need help and guidance in many ways."

Tropical Health Smoothies Made by Chef Pat Marone

As patrons roamed through the exhibits they were invited to sample the tropical health smoothies made by Chef Pat Marone of the Regency, indulge in a complimentary neck massage from Dr. Max or gain insight into the power of positive thinking from life coach Monica Bennett. A free, healthful lunch was provided for all.
Phyllis Gorham, executive director of the Glen Cove Chamber of Commerce, and Bonnie Nogin, community outreach liaison for the Pratt Pavilion, were very pleased with the turnout which numbered well over 200. "There was a lot of hard work involved," said Gorham, who wished to also acknowledge the other sponsors of the event: Astoria Federal Savings, Bright Star, the Glen Cove Senior Center, North Shore LIJ Glen Cove Hospital, the Regency at Glen Cove, Maxine Cappel-Mayreis, D.C. and the Law Offices of Ann-Margaret Carrozza.
Written by Jane Lawrence of antonnews.com.