By Mary Malloy
For Paul and Dorothy Selcov, residents of Sterling Glen of Lynbrook, an assisted living senior residence, everyday is Valentine's Day.
Married for 59 years, the Selcovs met at a bowling alley in Brooklyn, and say it was love at first sight.
"Six months after our first meeting, we got engaged and married soon after," said 84-year-old Dorothy. Paul had recently returned from Europe, where he served in Lieutenant General George Patton's Third Army in WWII, fighting in the Battle of the Bulge. He received a Purple Heart for his there.
What's the secret to their everlasting love? "Compromise," said Dorothy. "All couples disagree. The key is to make up after an argument."
It's all about give and take, agreed Paul, who is 91. "And enjoying life too, of course!"
The Selcovs are doing just that at Sterling Glen of Lynbrook, a community near Tanglewood Preserve. Wanting to escape the burdens of homeownership, Selcovs moved from their longtime home in Franklin Square in December 2005.
"The Selcovs are a special couple and a big part of our active community here," said Lauren Pinto, activities director of Sterling Glen. "They save each other a seat for our lectures and concerts and often hold hands during the events."
Dorothy is also a member of the residence's knitting club, which donates many of its creations to those in need. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the group knitted pink scarves to give to South Nassau Communities Hospital. The club continues to knit baby caps for the premature babies at local hospitals and also knits hats that are donated to the men and women serving in the military.
"I hadn't knit in 40 years and had forgotten how much I loved it," said Dorothy. "...I find it rewarding to donate my handiwork to help others in the area."
Paul plays bridge a few times a week with his card group and also remains an active member of his Bridge club in Franklin Square, of which he has been a member for more than 15 years.
Before relocating to Franklin Square in 1982, the Selcovs spent 31 years in the Laurelton section of Queens, where they raised their two children, Nancy and Robert. A retired schoolteacher, Nancy now volunteers each week at the Shabbat services held at Sterling Glen.
Comments about this story? MMalloy@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 202.
