Applause for Those That Make an Impact
By Nicole Pressly Wolf

“SAGE as in wise. SAGE as in savory. SAGE as in honoring.” And so began the introduction of Gilbert Parker, though it applied to all four honorees last Saturday, June 3 at the 14th Annual Pines Celebration of SAGE, Seniors Active in a Gay Environment. Despite thundering skies, many Fire Island Pines residents met at the Pavilion to take part in the nonprofit SAGE event.

Gilbert Parker, Thomas Rabig and Annie and Eddie Candreva were introduced by Jack Lichtenstein, the ever-humorous emcee, for their extraordinary community support and activism.

Pulse of the Pines

Gilbert Parker, who moved to the Pines in the early 1950s when houses were floated over empty lots to make the community look enticing for buyers, was honored not only for doing, but also for simply being, as friend Mickey Rolfe said, “ the pulse of the Pines.”

As an active member in countless charities and events, Parker was described as “always cheerful, involved, open-minded, eager, helpful and supportive.”

Taking Care Of It

“Welcome to our family. And boy you really earned it,” joked Jack as he introduced the Candrevas. Ed Candreva, first assistant chief of the Pines Fire Department was with his wife Annie on their way to the annual department dinner. They were first to be honored and Annie tearfully thanked everyone for their support, especially during recent times.

“We would never have made it through this winter if it was not for all of your prayers and good wishes,” she said.

The Candrevas, owners of the Pines Meat Market, were acknowledged for their community support over many years, with a store that Ed’s father opened 40 years ago. During the first SAGE celebration 14 years ago in honor of Nick Gioscia’s 90th birthday, Tony LaRocca remembered Ed and Annie catered it. “They said, ‘Don’t worry. We’ll take care of it all.’ And they did. They were wonderful.”

Standing Ovation

David Barrett, acclaimed interior designer and long-time Pines resident, introduced Thomas Rabig, former pool service owner, volunteer SAGE senior cart driver, and all-around special and giving community-minded Pines resident. Barrett acknowledged that without Tom, “It would be impossible for me to come out here.” Tom took the microphone only to thank everyone else—drawing a standing ovation.

Good Bye Terry, Hello Michael

Celebratory in a colorful Pucci shirt, Terry Kaelber, outgoing Executive Director, gave an upbeat and emotional speech, mentioning the 20 percent growth of SAGE this year and the critical need for folks to be visible. He then introduced his replacement as Executive Director, Michael Adams.

“I may see you all again on the beach, as a donor!” joked Kaelber.

Adams was given a warm applause and word was already buzzing that an event in Cherry Grove is planned for later this summer.

SAGE’s mission statement sets as its goals “to meet the unique needs of the senior lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.” Committed to providing high quality, life enriching programs and services in an intergenerational environment that values age, gender, racial, religious, ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic diversity, SAGE has been and continues to be a crucial part in the fabric of the Pines.

SAGE considers their “volunteers their primary ambassadors.” For info call (212) 741-2247 or email sageusa@aol.com.