HomeMy Public PortalAboutFebruary 2018
1673 Main Street, Brewster, MA 02631 • (508) 896-2737 • Fax (508) 896-7587
Hours: 8:00am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday
Denise Rego, Director Andrea Nevins, COA Board Co-Chair Alice Stelzer, FOBE President
Sharon Tennstedt, COA Board Co-Chair
February 2018
MISSION STATEMENT: To support and advocate for older adults and their families by providing
programs, services and resources that promote individual living and quality of life.
BREWSTER COA’S
INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY
If the Nauset Public Schools are closed,
all activities/programs and van transportation
at the Senior Center are cancelled.
If the Brewster Town Hall is closed,
the Brewster Senior Center will also be closed.
HOLIDAY CLOSING NOTES
The COA will be closed on Monday, February 19
for the Presidents Day observance.
Enjoy the holiday!
THANK YOU TO
OUR SHINE VOLUNTEERS!
Debra Johnson, Brenda Locke
and Mary Rancourt
The annual Medicare Open Enrollment,
which was from October 15th through
December 7th of 2017, is always a very busy
time here at our senior center.
Our Brewster COA volunteer
SHINE representatives devoted many hours
of their time to help over 300 clients save over
$225,000!
Thank you!
WELCOME JAYNE CLARK, PART-TIME PROGRAM COORDINATOR!
It is our pleasure to welcome Jayne as our new part-time Program Coordinator.
Jayne previously worked at Lower Cape Outreach Council, so she comes with many resources and ideas
for seniors. She will be working closely with other venues throughout the town to develop some new
programing for 2018. Please feel free to stop into the office to give Jayne a warm welcome!
THE SURVEY IS COMING!
The Brewster Vision Advisory Group has now reviewed all the ideas, summarized and organized the
action priorities for each of the building blocks that was discussed at the 3 Vision Forums. These actions
are the basis for an online survey where all residents can indicate the importance of actions for the
Town. This survey will be available in late January and every property owner will get a postcard with a
link to the online survey. You can also pick up a hard copy at the Planning Department at Town Hall,
Brewster Ladies Library and here at the COA. We encourage all Brewster residents to complete a
survey. Let’s hear what you have to say about the future of Brewster!
Page 2 February 2018 Brewster, MA
Save the Date!
Friends of Brewster Elders Sea Captains’ Thrift Shop Yard Sale
Saturday, May 5 10:00am - 4:00pm
This year the Friends of Brewster Elders will take part in the Town’s celebration of ‘Brewster in Bloom’
by holding a 50%-off yard sale of clothes and small furniture, etc. Mark your calendars now!
Meanwhile, during the month of February The Sea Captains’ Thrift Shop will be open 3 days per week:
Thursdays - Saturdays, 10:00am - 3:00pm
66 Harwich Road (Route 124)
2018 Olympics
They’re coming, they’re coming – who? -- the 2018 Olympics. I’m not a total
sports nut. I watch the Patriots and I love the Red Sox but the Olympics are
special. It is so exhilarating to watch each individual athletic struggle that I
get so caught up one would think I was cheering on a close friend or family
member.
The whole concept of the Olympics bespeaks to using mediums other than
warfare to settle differences. The Olympics provide a tremendous learning experience if we open
ourselves to the lessons. Start with what it teaches us on how to give a positive focus to competitive
drive. There is a distinction between being aggressive and being assertive in an aggressive way.
I love the profiles of these athletes that tell us what obstacles they had to overcome to even win a spot
on the team. Many of these athletes have had to conquer diseases that others have allowed to rule their
lives. Here are role models that can make a difference.
How to view diversity from the point of view of what opportunity it provides is certainly another lesson
we can learn. Each Olympics sets an example in a different way in the world arena.
Then there is the wonderful surge of patriotism. I’m sure when I’m watching the 2018 Olympic
competitions, I will not be able to keep down the urge to yell “Go USA.” We need more of this today.
These young athletes striving to be their very best make me proud.
Alice Plouchard Stelzer
CITIZENS POLICE ACADEMY
Tuesdays: March 13 through May 15 (ten weeks) 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Brewster Police Department, 631 Harwich Road
The Brewster Police Department announces its upcoming Citizens Police
Academy, beginning on Tuesday, March 13. This is your opportunity to get an
insider’s look at the functions of the Department and its officers. The class is FREE
and open to the public. You will learn a great deal and meet those who serve our
community. To sign up, applications are available at the Brewster COA and the
Police Department.
If you have any questions, please contact Lt. George Bausch at the Brewster Police Department at
(508) 896-7011.
Page 3 February 2018
W.O.W.
Tuesdays: 9:30am - 11:00am
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Are you sitting at home talking to yourself?
Do you like to discuss books, movies, current
events and issues, or whatever?
Then WOW would love to welcome you into our
weekly discussion group. You don’t have to
come every week. Just join us when you can at
the COA!
You’ll find us to be a very welcoming group.
If you have any questions, please call the COA at
(508) 896-2737.
INCOME TAX PREPARATION
Brewster Town Hall
2198 Main Street
It’s income tax season!
Make it easy on yourself and call the Brewster
COA soon at (508) 896-2737 to schedule an
appointment with a knowledgeable tax
representative from AARP.
Appointments are available on Wednesdays
beginning February 7th on a first-come,
first-served basis. The representatives will make
the job of filing your taxes much easier!
***Although the program is free,
donations to the Brewster COA
are appreciated!
Please note: This service is for basic,
uncomplicated tax filing ONLY!
(Form 1040 or Form 1040-EZ)
Brewster, MA
Looking for Medical Equipment?
If you are currently looking for Medical
Equipment, either for yourself or for someone you
know, please contact the COA to find out if we
have anything that you could use. We often
receive donations of crutches, walkers, canes,
shower/tub benches, commodes and wheelchairs
that we lend out, free of charge, for indefinite
periods of time.
Just give us a call at (508) 896-2737.
COMPUTER HELP
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 9:00am - 12:00pm
PLEASE NOTE:
There will be no Computer Help sessions until
April. Check the April ‘Bayside Chatter’ for the
schedule!
BREWSTER MEN’S COFFEE CLUB
Thursdays, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
It’s cold outside! Why not warm up with
the BMCC! We will be meeting on the following
Thursdays in February at the Brewster COA:
1, 8, 15, 22
Enjoy a cup of hot coffee and some lively
conversation. We’re always looking for new
members as well as Guest Speakers!
We welcome you to join us!
COMPUTER USERS’ GROUP
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 1:00pm - 3:00pm
PLEASE NOTE:
There will be no meetings of the Computer Users
Group until April. Check the April ‘Bayside
Chatter’ for the schedule!
Social Security Appointments
Residents of the Lower Cape can communicate
with a live Social Security Representative using
special Social Security video service at the
Harwich Community Center. You can conference
live with a Social Security staff member without
waiting in line or driving to Hyannis! Available
services include applying for benefits, reporting
changes, asking questions, and more.
Appointments are the 3rd Monday of each month.
Call 508-430-7550 to schedule your
Social Security appointment!
Disposable Adult Undergarments
The COA has a large supply of disposable adult un-
dergarments. If you know of someone that could
use some, please stop by the COA during our work-
ing hours: 8:00am—4:00pm Monday—Friday
Page 4 February 2018 Brewster, MA
FEBRUARY PROGRAM NOTES
FEBRUARY IS AMERICAN HEART MONTH!
Warm up in February by joining us for these upcoming
programs and events!
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION “GO RED” DAY
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2018
Celebrate with us by wearing something RED on this day!
We will be handing out “Know Your Numbers” informational brochures along with the
“Go Red for Women” red dress pins.
“KEEP THE BEAT ALIVE” Seminar
With Melanie Parrish, VNA
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12 1:00pm
This program is designed to increase heart health self-awareness and to provide
basic information on healthy lifestyle changes. Although change is not always
easy, learning how to take small steps can lead to a healthier, happier, and more
productive life. Participant interaction is encouraged.
Educational materials also provided.
Please call us at 508-896-2737 to register.
“HEARTS & HARP” Concert
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 1:30pm
$2.00 per person
Please join us for a lovely winter afternoon concert featuring Katie Lynch Koglin,
Harpist & Voice. A Cape Cod local, Katie performs from Woods Hole to
Provincetown to Boston. She attended The Boston Conservatory where she
graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelors of Music in harp performance and a
Masters of Music in harp performance and music education. Katie studied harp
with Cape Cod harpist Cynthia Gordon-O’Neill, Boston Ballet’s Cynthia Price-Glynn, and Berklee’s
Felice Pomeranze. As a vocalist, Katie studied with classical and cabaret singer Grace O’Connor.
We are honored to have her perform for us! And yes, we’ll be serving delicious desserts to all attendees!
Come get out of the cold and warm up with some beautiful music and sweet treats! Tickets are just
$2.00 per person and are limited. Contact the COA soon at 508-896-2737 to reserve your seat!
‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ Online:
The ‘Brewster Bayside Chatter’ is available online each month and can be found on our website at:
www.brewster-ma.gov. Search under ‘Departments’ and select ‘Council on Aging’. Scroll down to
where it reads: ‘our newsletters are available online’ and click on the link! Happy Reading!
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
1
9:00am Qi Gong
2:00pm BMCC
2
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
10:00am Swimming at
Brewster Green
5
9:45am Keep Movin’!
6
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
7
8:45am Line Dancing
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
8
9:00am Qi Gong
2:00pm BMCC
9
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
10:00am Swimming at
Brewster Green
12
9:00am Pedicare
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Seminar:
‘Keep the Beat Alive’
13
9:00am Pedicare
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
14
8:45am Line Dancing
10:30am BINGO
11:30am Sight Loss/BLL
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
Happy Day!
15
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing
Screenings
9:00am Qi Gong
1:00pm Financial
Planning
1:30pm Concert:
Hearts & Harp
2:00pm BMCC
16
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
10:00am Swimming at
Brewster Green
19
(The COA is closed)
20
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
11:00am Massages
with Sandra
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
21
8:45am Line Dancing
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
11:00am Massages
with Sandra
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
22
9:00am Qi Gong
2:00pm BMCC
23
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
10:00am Swimming at
Brewster Green
26
9:45am Keep Movin’!
27
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing & Health/BLL
1:00pm Massages with
Marilou
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
28
8:45am Line Dancing
10:00am Legal Help with
Atty. Tom Kosman
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
Page 6 Senior Happenings
February 2018 Page 7
MOBILE PANTRY “Healthy Food to Go”
We are pleased to bring to you this program in cooperation with The Family Pantry
of Cape Cod. Participants select their food in advance using the provided shopping
list, which includes standard non-perishable foods, along with special
non-perishable foods, fresh produce, bread products, dairy and meats.
Your shopping order is pre-bagged on the morning that you pick it up.
Pick-up is the 2nd Wednesday of each month, from 11:00am to 12:00pm at
Frederick Court. Our next date is Wednesday, February 14.
Participants must register and be income-qualified. For more information, please
call Debra or Brenda at our Outreach Office at (508) 896-2737.
TAX EXEMPTION INFORMATION
You may qualify for a substantial Real Estate Tax Exemption. Please contact the
Outreach office at the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737 to check income/asset
guidelines. Applications are available now!
Brewster, MA
FUEL ASSISTANCE
Need some help with your winter heating bills? You may be eligible for fuel
assistance. Please contact the Outreach Department at the Brewster COA at
(508) 896-2737 for more information.
SHINE NEWS:
Are you or someone you know turning 65 soon?
See a SHINE counselor! We can explain the process to get enrolled in Medicare and
supplemental insurance.
If you or someone you know will be turning 65 soon please call the Brewster Council
on Aging at (508) 896-2737 to make an appointment with a SHINE counselor .
JUST A REMINDER…
If you are in need of a medical ride to the doctor, etc., please be sure to contact us
AS SOON AS YOU MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT. During the winter months, many
of our volunteer drivers become “snow birds”, heading south to warmer climates, so
we are limited in the number of rides we can do.
The earlier you can call us, the more time it gives us to locate a driver. We ask for a
minimum of 4 BUSINESS DAYS (weekends and holidays do not count as we are not
open), but are always happiest when you give us a longer time period to enlist a
driver.
Also, with snow-season already upon us, we want to remind you to be wary of icy
walkways as well as roadways. If you get services from Visiting Nurses, Elder
Services, Meals on Wheels, or are using our Medical Ride program, those individuals
really need to have safe access to your home. Make arrangements to have your
driveway plowed and your walks shoveled early in the season, and make sure they’re
cleared before any volunteer driver comes to pick you up.
We want everyone to stay safe this winter! Thank you for your understanding.
BAYSIDE
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP & ACTIVITY
GROUP for PEOPLE WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT:
1st & 3rd Tues. of each month ~ 1:00 - 2:30pm at Maplewood of
Brewster, 820 Harwich Road (Route 124). The Caregivers support
group and the Dementia support group run simultaneously.
Dr. Molly Perdue, facilitator. Drop-ins welcome. Call (508) 896-5170 for
more information.
ANGELCARE: Please call the COA for information: (508) 896-2737
BANKING ASSISTANCE: For help balancing seniors’ checkbooks. By
appointment only. Please call the COA at (508) 896-2737 to reserve.
BINGO: Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 - 11:30am.
BLOOD PRESSURE & GLUCOSE TESTING/HEALTH COUNSELING:
4th Tuesday of the month at the Brewster Ladies Library, lower level.
10:00am – 2:00pm - On a drop-in basis. Provided by VNA of Cape Cod.
BREWSTER MEN’S COFFEE CLUB (BMCC): Thursdays ~ 2:00pm.
BRIDGE (men’s and women’s groups): Tuesdays ~ 1:00pm.
COMPUTER HELP: Thursdays ~ 9:00am – 12:00pm
By appointment only. 1-hour sessions are hands-on, one-on-one,
and participants choose their own pace and area of interest.
Call (508) 896-2737
PLEASE NOTE: No Computer Help until April
COMPUTER USERS GROUP: Thursdays ~ 1:00pm. The first hour will
be for questions and answers, followed by instructions on topics solicited
from program participants that day. Skill level is from beginner to
intermediate. Just drop in!
PLEASE NOTE: No Computer Users Group until April
FINANCIAL PLANNING: 3rd Thursday ~ 1:00pm.
By appointment only. A knowledgeable volunteer answers questions
and provides information concerning Long Term Care and Financial
Planning. Call (508) 896-2737
HEARING SCREENINGS: 3rd Thursday ~ 8:30am By appointment
only. FREE. Includes ear inspections and hearing-aid checks if needed.
Appointments are 15 minutes each. Call (508) 896-2737.
KEEP MOVIN’!: Mondays and Fridays ~ 9:45 -10:45 am. 10-week
session/20 classes, for the cost of $50.00. Strength training for seniors.
Classes help to relieve arthritis symptoms using adjustable weights and
stretch bands. PLEASE NOTE: Call the COA at (508) 896-2737 for
more information.
LEGAL HELP: 10:00am on the 4th Wednesday with Atty.Tom Kosman.
Atty. Adam Dupuy will still offer legal advice, but does not have scheduled
dates at the COA. 1/2-hour appointments. By appointment only:
(508) 896-2737 The attorney will answer your legal questions. Free for
initial appointment.
LINE DANCING: Wednesdays ~ 8:45am No dance experience required.
$4.00/class when paid monthly, or $6.00/class for drop ins. Cash or
checks payable to “Cape Sands Ballroom”. No need to call first; just come
and join us!
MASSAGE: Sandra Smith’s schedule is the 3rd Wednesday of the
month beginning at 11:00am at the COA. PLEASE NOTE: This month,
Massages with Sandra will be offered on Tuesday and Wednesday,
February 20 and 21. Massages with Marilou are held the last Tuesday of
every month beginning at 1:00pm. Massages last 30 minutes and are
$15.00. By appointment only: (508) 896-2737
MEALS ON WHEELS: Provided to each homebound elder who is unable
to prepare nutritionally balanced meals.
Call Kelly Kirby at (508) 896-5070.
CHATTER
WEEKLY/MONTHLY PROGRAMS/ACTIVITIES:
OLD FASHIONED QUILTING BEE: Wednesdays ~ 1:00pm.
Fellow quilters bring in their quilting projects and enjoy the camaraderie of
other quilters. Come join in with the ‘Brewster Basters’!
OUTREACH ASSISTANCE: The Outreach Workers will answer any
questions you have about resources and programs you may be entitled to,
assist with assessing needs, file-of-life, fuel assistance applications, etc.
Please call (508) 896-2737 to make an appointment.
PEDICARE: 2nd Monday of the month ~ 9:00am - 2:30pm
(Diabetics must see a MD/Podiatrist). ½ hr. appointments - $29.00
Home Visit - $50.00 Please call (508) 896-2737 for appointment.
PLEASE NOTE: This month only, Pedicare appointments are also
being offered on Tuesday , February 3rd.
PET GROOMING: Buttons & Bows ~ 3rd Thursday of the month, nail
clipping will take place for animals in a grooming van at the back of the
COA, from 8:00am – 8:30am for $3.00, normally $10.00. Stop by!
POKER: Wednesdays and Fridays ~ 12:30pm - 3:45pm
PLEASE NOTE: No poker until April .
QI GONG: Thursdays ~ 9:00am - 9:45am. $10.00 for 5 sessions.
Chinese method for enhancing the immune system; utilizing posture and
breathing exercises, along with focused intentions. Gentle and calming.
Please call the Brewster COA at (508) 896-2737 for more information.
REP. TIM WHELAN: 3rd Friday of the month ~ 11:00am - 12:00 pm
Offered on a drop-in, first-come-first served basis.
SENIOR DINING: Hot lunches are provided Monday through Friday
at the COA Suggested donation is $3.00 per meal. 24-hour notice
required. Please call (508) 896-5070 no later than 11:00am the day
before. Come at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays to play BINGO
before lunch! Live piano music Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11:30am.
SENIOR STRIDERS: Mondays through Fridays throughout the school
year: 6:30am - 7:15am AND 3:00pm - 5:00pm at Stony Brook Elementary
School. Walking for Seniors! Please visit the Brewster Rec. Dept. at
the Eddy Elementary School for more information and/or to sign up.
SHINE: Serving the Health Information Needs of Everyone
Tuesdays & Wednesdays - 1:00pm - 3:15pm Highly-trained volunteer
counselors help seniors and Medicare beneficiaries understand their rights
and benefits. Please contact the COA for an appointment at:
508-896-2737. Appointments are FREE!
SIGHT LOSS GROUP: September - June on the 2nd Wednesday of
each month at the Brewster Ladies Library ~ 11:30am -1:00pm ~ Call
Sight Loss at (508) 394-3904 for more information.
SWIMMING: Brewster Green Pool ~ Fridays: 10:00am - 12:00pm.
This is ONLY available for Brewster’s senior (60+) residents. You
ALSO need to have your current-year (2018) F.O.B.E. Membership
Card for admittance. A donation of $1.00 per swim is recommended and
this is done by an Honor system. Stop by the COA on a monthly or
quarterly basis to support this activity!
TENNIS: Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays ~ 9:00am – 11:00am
(Open play during winter months). Playing at the tennis courts off
Underpass Road. Please call the Brewster Recreation Department
at (508) 896-9430 for more information.
W.O.W.: (Wonderful Older Women): Tuesdays ~ 9:30am - 11:00am
This friendly group of women review current events, talk about movies &
books, give each other support & enjoy conversation. Stop by!
YOGA: Tuesday mornings from 9:00am - 10:30am.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching.
Page 9 February 2018
A MESSAGE FROM CHARLES ALTIERI, RN
PUBLIC HEALTH WELLNESS NURSE, VNA of CAPE COD
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 February 2018 Brewster, MA
DISCLAIMER:
The Brewster Senior Center offers many legal, financial, recreational, medical screening or other
services and/or activities by volunteer or nominal-cost practitioners. Seniors participating in these
services do so with the understanding that the Brewster Council on Aging, The Brewster Senior Center,
the Town of Brewster, Friends of Brewster Elders (aka F.O.B.E.) or its employees or agents DO NOT
ASSUME ANY LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ADVICE OR SERVICES RENDERED BY SUCH
VOLUNTEER OR NOMINAL COST PRACTITIONER. Any act, advice, or service by outside providers
at the Council on Aging SHOULD NOT BE PRESUMED TO BE ENDORSED OR SPONSORED BY THE
BCOA.
Tea Drinking May Reduce Risk of Cognitive Disorders
Coffee isn’t the only hot health beverage; drinking tea also has many health
benefits. According to a recent study, this may include reducing the risk of
developing memory cognitive disorders.
The study published in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging followed 1000 older adults for five
years. In that group, about 70% of people were regular tea drinkers. At the end of the study,
tea drinkers were nearly half as likely as those who didn’t drink tea to develop a cognitive disorder.
Various types of tea; whether green, black, or oolong appeared to be equally effective.
The more important factor in reducing risk of cognitive disorders was regular tea drinking over long
periods of time.
Although the study is suggestive of the tea drinking benefit, it doesn’t prove cause and effect.
In addition, there were factors that may have affected the results. As a group, the tea drinkers had
higher levels of education, ate a healthier diet, had better mental status scores at the outset and were
more likely to be physically active than were the non-tea drinkers. This study isn’t the first to find an
association between tea drinking and reduced risk of cognitive decline or dementia. More investigation
is needed to determine whether drinking tea or other lifestyle choices and demographic characteristics
associated with drinking tea are cognitively protective.
There may be numerous health benefits to enjoying tea. Tea contains polyphenols such as catechins.
These compounds help protect cells with their antioxidant activity. Research also associated tea con-
sumption with living longer and having better functional ability, more specifically, improvement in car-
diovascular health, cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
(Mayo Clinic January 2018)
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, RN, Public Health Nurse
February 2018 Page 11
Brewster, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
“You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer
yourself in any direction you choose.”
Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss)
Christmas is that time of year when we hear from our friends around the world, some writing their
annual Christmas Letter to bring us up to date on what has happened in their lives over the past year.
Most of these writings are happy ones with glowing comments about their children, grandchildren, and
great grandchildren, and often we are impressed that “Little Joey,” who was two last year is now three!
Who knew?? My mother never wrote a Christmas letter, and I often wonder, when I’m reading the ones
we receive, what she might have said. Soooo, I have created one, tongue-in-cheek, perhaps some of it
true, some not, but I’m not saying which is which. It would probably look something like this:
“To my sisters Grace, Angelina and Josephine, and my brothers Rudy, Ralph and Carl,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I’m looking forward to our New Year’s family
get-together again when we can let bygones be bygones, kiss and make up and move on
to a new year. Think about it, now wasn’t it silly that we should argue so emotionally
about how many miles it is to Miami Beach and how many hours it takes to get there?
Really, who cares if it’s 1517 miles or 1469 miles, but with a family of Sicilians somehow
it seems we all have to be right. More importantly, did I tell you about Pete and how
well he is doing at Passaic High School? Probably not because he’s not doing well at all!
I’m begging him to get a job after school, but he insists on playing baseball for the high
school team and says he has no time for a job. Thinks he ’s going to be another
Joe DiMaggio. He doesn’t even have time to put the trash barrels out at the curb when
I ask him to. Says baseball practice makes him too tired. He’s failing chemistry and
Ms. Kluge says he will get kicked off the team if he fails. Maybe then he will get a job.
Poor Joanie Carfora goes and knits with her after school thinking that may boost his
grade. She knitted Pete a pair of snappy argyle socks, but one sock came out longer
than the other, but he compensates by rotating them first, long left and short right.
I’ll have to have a talk with that poor girl. She deserves better. There’s more, but I’ll
save some of it until I see all of you in a couple of weeks on New Year’s Eve. Try not to
upset Momma this year, but you better bring along your boxing gloves just in case.
Your loving sister, Agata.”
Mom, I know you would be shaking your head about now and I would hesitate before going out in a
lightning storm for fear of being struck, but I know you are laughing and getting a kick out of reading
this. But you know, baseball practice really did tire me out. And Joanie Carfora’s efforts only managed
to bring me up to a “D” probably because of those damn socks. You were right, I never did become
another “Yankee Clipper” and Joanie Carfora did deserve better, but Neapolitans are stubborn too….
but not quite as stubborn as Sicilians! Miss you.
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - Listen to your mother!! (Happy St. Valentine’s Day)
P.S. By the way mom, it’s 1,290.4 miles to Miami Beach from Passaic, N.J., and takes 19 hours and 48
minutes, just in case it ever comes up again.
poop deck, n., a deck above a ship’s main afterdeck
BHT - BOSTON HOSPITAL TRANSPORTATION
Enjoy comfortable and safe transportation from Cape
Cod DIRECT to Boston hospitals on a
wheelchair -accessible van.
MONDAY thru FRIDAY SCHEDULE
7:30a.m. Orleans (Shaw’s)
7:45a.m. Harwich (Route 124 Commuter Lot)
8:00a.m. Barnstable (Route 132 Commuter Lot)
8:15a.m. Sagamore (Rotary Commuter Lot)
RESERVATIONS are a MUST!!!
(Reserve no later than 11a.m. the day before)
$30.00 Round Trip/$15.00 One-way
Cash or Checks (Payable to CCRTA) accepted
For reservations call 1-800-352-7155
Monday – Friday: 8:00a.m. – 5:00p.m.
Schedule your medical appointments between
10am & 2pm. The van will leave Boston by 3pm.
Visit the website for more information:
www.capecodrta.org
TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
COA VAN – Scheduled trips include:
Monday–Friday to nutrition site and home after lunch for FREE.
Grocery Shopping in Orleans: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11am - 1pm.
Post office, banking & pharmacy trips: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
The suggested donation is $2.00 for these errands.
MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS – Volunteer drivers are available for
transportation to medical appointments in their personal cars. Please call the
COA at (508) 896-2737 as soon as you make an appointment or at least four
business days (Monday through Friday) in advance so that we can find a
volunteer to provide your ride. Please notify the COA if you cannot keep your
appointment so we can notify our drivers. Make sure your house number is
visible from the road. Donations are accepted for this service.
WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL VAN – Transportation to
medical appointments is provided on a volunteer basis, Monday through
Friday. A one-week advanced reservation is required. There is a
graduated donation schedule, depending upon the destination. Call for more
information at (508) 896-2737.
All medical rides are made possible thru Title III funding, Elder Services
of Cape Cod & The Islands, Inc., and the donations of our riders.
Page 12 February 2018 Brewster, MA Non-Profit Org US Postage PAID Permit #25 Orleans, MA 02653 DART - DIAL-A-RIDE TRANSPORTATION Service:
CCRTA provides a daily general public demand response service that is wheelchair-accessible, door-to-door, and ride-by-appointment. This service is
available to all Cape Cod residents and is available Monday through Saturday in all towns, with limited Sunday service. The DART does not run on
holidays. For available times in Brewster please call Customer Service toll-free at (800) 352-7155, Monday-Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm. OR CURRENT RESIDENT FRIENDS OF BREWSTER ELDERS 1673 MAIN STREET BREWSTER, MA 02631