I felt insecure in my house in Bay Terrace, actually not safe, living alone. My daughter lives very near The Bristal North Hills, but we looked at other communities too. Now I'm not alone anymore. I have company at meals. I've met a lot of people of different backgrounds. I have a neighbor who also drives and we sometimes go to concerts and lectures together.

Music and dance are the center of my life to this day. I drive to my dance studio a couple of times a week where I continue to teach advanced ballet students. We have developed so many professionals over the years, more than any other Long Island dance studio.

I founded my school, Hannah Kroner's School of Dance 60 years ago. Today we're in Albertson and a former student of mine who was a Rockette runs the school! I currently teach exercise classes at The Bristal, where I live, once a week.

The people who look after us here are so warm and supportive. I had a family tragedy last year and I couldn't have gotten along without them and my dear friends.

Our friend Murray Klein was a lawyer for 53 years. He and his wife Joyce came to live at The Bristal at North Hills in 2009 with the encouragement of their children. Joyce had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and they both needed support to live safely and well.

Now Murray spends time with Joyce everyday. They attend performances and activities together every chance they get, although Joyce lives in Reflections where she receives occupational therapy, the help and expert care of our wonderful staff.

You'll find Murray in The Bristal at North Hills' reception area at our beautiful grand piano entertaining his friends, visitors and staff with standards, show tunes and classical music. Murray's family had a piano in the house when he was growing up. His sister took lessons, and Murray followed along. They lived in New Jersey and traveled all the way to Bushwick for lessons. Their teacher was from Julliard and was very strict. Murray was classical trained, and, to this day, his technique and mastery shines through when ever he sits down to his favorite pastime.

He performs when he's "in the mood" and people gather around to sing along or just enjoy the music. Murray says he loves Chopin Nocturnes and Mazurkas although he plays popular music on request. He is a wonderful conversationalist and always has a smile and a helping hand for everyone he sees each day. Music reminds him of the years gone by and the best of memories with Joyce and the kids.