what is a good way to break the ice. been out of the dating scene for longer than I can remember. before mobiles and internet lol

For Russians there ain't any better ice breaker than a big bottle of vodka. Otherwise be nice and polite to the ladies and start to participate in forums so we could get to know you.
Perhaps let's start from there, eh lol ..

Welcome and good luck in your search

I agree, just be yourself. For me myself the first thing that chases me away is when a guy automatically asks for my number or email right away. Take time to get to know someone first. Don't be pushy and always be polite.

"Hi, I'm [name]" is usually a pretty good ice breaker.
Just ask some specific details about their profile.
Or ask about something simple that isn't on their profile: fave band/music, fave recipes

Or you could intro with some odd talent of yours.
Can you make a complex recipe? Recite the Declaration of Independence?

Keep it short and simple.
Sadly, you;ll find meeting people on here is like trying to meet someone face to face.
You just go thru the whole meet and ignore/rejection process A LOT faster.
But since you're not having to meet them face to face (unless you ever actually got to that point), you get used to it pretty quick.