HomeMy Public PortalAboutJuly 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
July 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.
It’s SUMMERTIME!
Did you know that the COA has 2 Beach Wheelchairs
available, one of which can actually go right into the
water! We loan them out for 2 days at a time and we
ask for a donation of $10.00.
They can be used at any of the Brewster beaches
(either Bay or Pond beaches), and must stay within
town lines.
For more information, and/or to reserve, please call
the COA at: (508) 896-2737
Programs Changed or Ended for the
Summer:
No Massages with either Marilou Raposa or
Sandra Smith until September.
There are no meetings for Sight Loss until
September.
No swimming at Brewster Green until
September.
Yoga meets from 8:30 - 10:00am on Tuesdays in
July and August.
Volunteers of the Year, Meryl and Rob Gartside,
were honored at the Volunteer Appreciation
Luncheon held at the Captains Golf Course in June.
State Representative Tim Whelan was on hand to
present them with a proclamation from the State
House! The Gartsides were honored for their
devotion to the Brewster Community Garden and
the work they have done to develop the garden into
what it is today.
Photo courtesy of Regina Egan
The Brewster COA will be
closed on Wednesday, July 4th
in honor of Independence Day.
Enjoy your holiday!
Page 2 July2018 Brewster, MA
In the Good Ol’ Summertime...Exercise your Options!
The Brewster Council on Aging offers the following exercise and wellness classes to help
you have a healthy, active and enjoyable season! Come check us out!
Keep Movin’ Mondays and Fridays 9:45 am - 10:45 am
This program is primarily strength-training for seniors. The classes are friendly, and a fun way to relieve arthritis
symptoms and learn important strengthening exercises. Classes start easy and help to build strength and
coordination each week by using hand & leg weights and bands. The cost is $50 for the 10-weeks (20 classes per
session). To sign up, stop in any Monday or Friday and speak to the instructor, Linda Fraser.
Yoga Tuesdays 8:30 am - 10:00 am
This class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for exploring gentle and safe stretching. It is appropriate for
all fitness levels, and helps with relaxation and focus. $10.00 per class. No need to sign up in advance.
Feel free to check out a class to see if it’s right for you! Our long-time instructor is Marilou Raposa.
PLEASE NOTE: During the months of July and August, Yoga will meet from 8:30am - 10:00am.
Line Dancing Wednesdays 8:45 am - 9:30 am
A fun, new way to get light exercise and meet new friends. This is NOT your usual Country-Western line dance
class. We dance to all styles of music! No dancing experience required! $4.00 per class when paid monthly,
$6.00 per class for drop-ins. Come at 8:35am for an optional 10-minute warm-up period for students with
knowledge of jazz boxes, grapevines, paddle turns, etc. Our instructor, Karen Shackleford, comes to us from
‘Cape Sands Ballroom’. Come dance your cares away!
Balancing Act Wednesdays 9:30am - 10:15am
Better Balance through Body Awareness and Fun! In this class, we will explore a
number of ways to build more awareness of our bodies in order to establish good balance. Some of
what we will do will be seated. Some of it will be using our chairs as we learn to create a sense of our
bodies balancing while standing. We will also work on having a good posture while standing, as well as walking
and moving. There will be some exercises to help build a stronger body core and sense of being centered in our
bodies. We might even play some easy movement games to help build confidence physically from the inside
out. Come join us for building good balance and having fun with it at the same time! A 5-week session is being
offered at a cost of $10.00 for the session. The session begins on July 11th and runs through August 8th.
Please give the COA a call at 508-896-2737 to register. Sorry, no drop ins. Our instructor is Carol Marcy.
Qi Gong Thursdays 9:00 am - 9:45 am
Qi Gong is an integration of physical postures, breathing techniques and focused intentions. The gentle,
rhythmic movements help to reduce stress, build stamina, increase vitality and enhance the immune system.
Qi Gong’s greatest appeal is that everyone can benefit! The instructor also incorporates some elements of Tai Chi
into each session. $2.00 per class or $10.00 per 5-week session. You’re welcome to come check it out!
Our instructor is Ray DiPietro.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are new to the program, give the COA a call before dropping by the class.
On particularly good-weather days, class sometimes meets at the gazebo in Drummer Boy park. Just give us a
call at 508-896-2737 if you’re unsure of where they are meeting.
Meditation for Beginners Thursdays 10:00am - 11:00am
The Brewster COA is pleased to announce another session of this very popular course. We continue to focus on
building internal awareness with an orientation toward the heart and breath. If your summer seems a bit too
harried, come to this class and take a time-out for yourself. $2.00 per class or $10.00 per 5-week session.
The next session begins on July 12th and runs through August 9th. Our instructor is Carol Marcy.
Page 3 July 2018
W.O.W. (Wonderful Older Women!)
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 friendly group.
If you have any questions, please call the COA at
508-896-2737.
Brewster, MA
‘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!
Computer Help
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
Thursdays: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Do you need help using your computer? We have
one-on-one sessions available to help you feel more
confident in your computer skills. Sessions are one
hour and FREE! July’s dates are: 5, 12, 19, 26
If you’d like to make an appointment, please
contact the Brewster COA at 508-896-2737
Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club
Thursdays, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street
It’s summertime! The Brewster Mens’ Coffee Club will
be meeting on the following Thursday afternoons in
July:
5, 12, 19, 26
Come enjoy a cup of 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
In July, the Computer Users Group will be meeting on
the following dates:
5, 12, 19, 26
Topics are solicited from program attendees at each
meeting and discussed at subsequent meetings, all
within a friendly atmosphere. Skill level is from
beginner to intermediate. There’s no need to sign up.
Just come and learn something new!
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, as long as they are needed.
Give us a call at 508-896-2737. We may just have what
you’re looking for!
Would you like to speak with a member of
the Select Board?
Have you ever watched a Select Board
meeting on TV? Here is your chance to
meet with Select Board member,
Ben deRuyter, in a much less formal setting! Ben is
newly elected (but experienced!) and will be hosting
office hours each month this summer, right here at the
COA. The schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, July 17th at 9:00am
Tuesday, August 21st at 9:00am
No need to phone first, just stop by! First come, first
served!
Go Cruisin’ this Summer!
The COA has senior discount coupons for the Hyline
High Speed Ferry service to the Islands, as well as the
Hyannisport Harbor Cruise and the Cape Cod Canal
Cruise. Please note: these coupons are to be used for
individual travel only (not for groups).
Just stop in at the COA office to pick one up before you
embark on your new adventure!
Come Sail Away!
Once again, the Brewster COA will be offering a sailing
trip on Pleasant Bay, sponsored by Pleasant Bay
Community Boating. This trip will be for Brewster
residents only, who are also ambulatory. The date will
be Friday, August 17th. Look for more information in
next month’s ‘Bayside Chatter’!
Page 4 July 2018 Brewster, MA
July Program Notes
Check out the exciting and informative
programs and events we’ve got planned
for you this month! All programs take place
at the Brewster COA, 1673 Main Street.
(unless otherwise noted)
Exploring Aromatherapy
Monday, July 9th 1:00pm - 2:00 pm
Here is an opportunity to learn more about
Aromatherapy and Essential Oils! This workshop is
presented by 2 Certified Medicinal Aromatherapists
and will focus on healthy ways to integrate some
essential oils into your personal wellness kits. Some of
the topics that will be discussed include, but are not
limited to: a basic introduction to aromatherapy, what
are essential oils, the application of essential oils, some
common essential oils, some simple uses for essential
oils, etc. This offering is sponsored by the Town of
Brewster Board of Health.
Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to sign up!
Food to Encourage
2nd & 4th Thursdays: July 12th & 26th
9:45 am to 11:30 am
Lower Cape Outreach Council in partnership with the
Barnstable County Public Health Nurses and the
Brewster COA are looking to explore the impact of
Nutrition & Healthy eating on Diabetes &
Hypertension.
This program is open to everyone, and there will
be complete confidentiality for every participant.
Health monitoring by a nurse, involving Blood Pressure
and Glucose checks, will be provided. Each participant
will receive a bag of fresh fruits/veggies every other
week, along with free recipes! Just stop by at any point
during the time period listed above!
Chronic Pain: Informational Session
Friday, July 13th 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Do you or a loved one live with chronic pain?
Would you like to learn some helpful tools in managing
it? Come meet the session leaders from the VNA of
Cape Cod and get your questions answered about a
new, upcoming workshop. Light refreshments will be
served.
If there is enough interest at this Informational Session,
there will be a six-week session offered which will
explore the topic in a more in-depth manner.
To sign up, please call the COA at 508-896-2737.
Monthly General Grief Support Group
Meets on the following Wednesdays:
July 18, August 15
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Have you lost a loved one? It might be difficult on
these summer days when it seems that everyone else is
happy but you are still grieving. Hope Hospice will be
here at our senior center for 2 Support Group meetings
during the summer months. All Hope Hospice grief
support groups provide a safe, confidential and
supportive setting for anyone experiencing a loss.
These are mutual support groups led by specially
trained facilitators. Registration is required.
For more information and to register, please contact
Hope Hospice at 508-957-0304.
Crafts with Megan!
Thursday, July 19th
10:30am - 12:30pm
Free! Come join us for another great day!
You’ll be creating an easy, fun new craft each month.
All supplies are included.
Meet new friends and indulge your creative side while
our instructor, Megan, offers guidance in all projects.
There is a maximum class size of 6.
Please contact the COA by Friday, July 19th to
let us know you are interested: 508-896-2737
Color Me Creative!
Monday, July 30th 1:00pm
Free! If you love to color, you’ll LOVE this workshop!
First, we view and discuss a painting from the
Cape Cod Museum of Art. Next, we grab our colored
pencils, markers and a coloring-book version of that
same painting and get creative!
Come meet new friends and relax while you unlock
your own creativity. Light, summer refreshments will
be served! Please call the COA at 508-896-2737 to sign
up for this fun program!
Sea Captains’ Thrift Shop
66 Harwich Road (Route 124)
Hours: Monday - Saturday,
10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Summer has finally arrived! We’re open 6 days a
week! Be sure to check out the great deals at the
shop! We’ve got everything you need for those
warm, sunny days ahead!
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
2
9:45am Keep Movin’!
3
8:30am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
4
(The COA is closed)
5
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
1:00pm Computer
Users Group
2:00pm BMCC
6
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
9
9:00am Pedicare
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Seminar:
Exploring
Aromatherapy
10
8:30am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
11
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
(first class of a
five week session)
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm SHINE
12
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer
Users Group
2:00pm BMCC
13
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Program:
Chronic Pain
Information
Session
16
9:45am Keep Movin’!
17
8:30am Yoga
9:00am Chat with
Select Board Member
Ben deRuyter
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
18
8:45am Line Dancing
9:30am Balancing Act
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm Quilters
1:00pm Grief Support
Group
1:00pm SHINE
19
8:00am Pet Grooming
8:30am Hearing
Screenings
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
10:00am Meditation
10:30am Crafts with
Megan
1:00pm Computer
Users Group
1:00pm Financial
Planning
2:00pm BMCC
20
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
11:00am
Rep. Tim Whelan
23
9:45am Keep Movin’!
24
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
10:00am BP/Glucose
Testing & Health/BLL
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
25
8:45am Line Dancing
9:00am Mobile Dental
Hygiene Service
9:30am Balancing Act
10:00am Legal Help with
Atty. Katie Wibby
10:30am BINGO
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Quilters
26
9:00am Qi Gong
9:00am Computer Help
9:45am Food to
Encourage
10:00am Meditation
1:00pm Computer
Users Group
2:00pm BMCC
27
9:45am Keep Movin’!
10:30am BINGO
30
9:45am Keep Movin’!
1:00pm Color Me
Creative!
31
9:00am Yoga
9:30am W.O.W.
1:00pm SHINE
1:00pm Bridge
Page 6 Senior Happenings
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.
July 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, July 11th.
Participants must register and be income-qualified. For more information, please call Debra
or Brenda at our Outreach Office at (508) 896-2737.
Brewster, MA
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service
Mobile Dental Hygiene Services is now be offering friendly, convenient, and affordable
preventative oral health care at the Brewster Council on Aging! The following services are
FREE to eligible individuals with Medicaid/MassHealth: cleanings, screenings,
oral cancer exams, fluoride treatments, denture care, education, referrals.
No dental insurance? They offer affordable options! This service will be held on the 4th
Wednesday of every month. This month, the date will be Wednesday, July 25th.
Please contact Mobile Dental Hygiene Services if you have any questions or you would like to
make an appointment. Their telephone number is 508-827-6725 or check them out at:
smiles@mobiledentalhygiene.com
SHINE news…
When Can You Enroll in a Medigap (Supplement) Plan?
Medigap (supplement) plans provide extra protection beyond Medicare by filling in some of
the “gaps” in Medicare coverage. In Massachusetts, the insurance companies allow
continuous open enrollment.
You must have Medicare A and B to enroll, and cannot be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage
plan (HMO, PPO). Anyone who is eligible may enroll or change plans or coverage levels at
any time, with changes effective the first of the following month.
Certified SHINE volunteers offer free, confidential counseling on all aspects of Medicare and
related health insurance programs. Please call the senior center at 508-896-2737 to schedule
an appointment with a SHINE counselor to address any/all of your insurance concerns.
Come Join us for Lunch!
Hot lunches are provided Monday through Friday at the COA. Suggested donation is $3.00
per person. Please call (508) 896-5070 no later than 11:00am the day before to
reserve your meal. Come at 10:30am on Wednesdays and Fridays to play BINGO before
lunch! Live piano music Wednesdays and Thursdays at 11:30am! See you there!
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.
BANKING ASSISTANCE: For help balancing seniors’ checkbooks. By
appointment only. Please call the COA at (508) 896-2737 to reserve.
BINGO: Wednesday and Friday ~ 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: This month’s dates: July 5, 12, 19, 26
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. No need to sign up; just drop in!
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s dates: July 5, 12, 19, 26
DENTAL HYGIENE SERVICE: 4th Wednesday ~ 9:00am
Mobile Dental Hygiene Service offers friendly, convenient and affordable
preventative oral health care at the COA! To make an appointment,
please call Mobile Dental Hygiene Svc. at (508) 827-6725 or visit their
website at smiles@mobiledentalhygiene.com
PLEASE NOTE: This month’s date is Wednesday, July 25th
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: If you are interested, please stop by
the class and speak with the instructor.
LEGAL HELP: 10:00am on the 4th Wednesday with Atty. Katie Wibby.
Atty. Adam Dupuy still offers 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 - 9:30am 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:
No Massages with Marilou Raposa, or Sandra Smith, will be available
until September.
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:
MEDITATION: Thursdays ~ 10:00am Building internal awareness with
an orientation toward the heart and breath. Friendly and calm environ-
ment. If your life seems a bit too harried, come to this class and take a
time-out for yourself! $2.00 per class or $10.00 per 5-week session.
Drop-ins welcome!
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.
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 ~ 12:30pm - 3:45pm
PLEASE NOTE: Call the COA at (508) 896-2737 for July game dates
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,
and to find out where the class is meeting during the summer months.
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: This program has been discontinued until
further notice per the Brewster Recreation Dept.
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.
PLEASE NOTE: No Sight Loss meetings until September
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 Brewster COA Swipe 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! PLEASE NOTE: No swimming until September
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 8:30am - 10:00am.
$10 per class. Class uses breathing techniques as a foundation for
exploring gentle & safe stretching. Drop-ins welcome!
Page 9 July 2018
A Message from Charles Altieri, RN
Public Health Wellness Nurse, VNA of Cape Cod
Home visits will occur on Mondays.
Page 10 July 2018 Brewster, MA
Skin Cancer: protect the largest organ of your body!
Approximately 20 percent of Americans will develop a skin cancer by age 70.
The three most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Actinic keratosis is the most common form of precancerous change, affecting 58 million people in the U.S.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer with an estimated 4.3 million new cases each year.
Despite the more than 3,000 deaths it causes annually, if caught early, almost every case can be cured. For this reason, ear ly
detection is paramount. If ignored, it may invade surrounding tissue, nerves and bones and may cause significant damage and
disfigurement.
The second most common type of skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. These cancers tend to develop on skin
that is exposed to sun for years. Those fond of tanning beds and booths significantly increase their risk of developing
squamous cell carcinoma, and will potentially develop it earlier in life. Again, early diagnosis and treatment of this cancer is
extremely important, because squamous cell carcinomas may be quite curable. They can spread to other parts of the body
(metastasize) if not treated. There are over 15,000 deaths from squamous cell cancer with greater than 1 million cases
diagnosed annually.
Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer. Every hour, someone in the United States dies from this cancer
(totaling an estimated 9,320 people in 2018). The five-year survival for a patient diagnosed early is about 99 percent, but
drops to 15-20 percent if not diagnosed until it has spread to distant organs.
Follow this link to the “ABCDE” warning signs of melanoma: h
https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer/learn-about-skin-cancer/detect/what-to-
look-for.
The risk of developing melanoma doubles if one has had more than five sunburns. Although people will often focus on looking
at existing moles, it’s important to note that 70-80 percent of melanomas arise from what appears to have been “normal” skin.
Let’s take a minute to talk about indoor tanning, recognizing that ultraviolet radiation is proven as a human carcinogen. UV
tanning devices are classified by the FDA as Class II (moderate to high risk) devices. A research affiliate of the World Health
Organization classifies tanning devices in its “Group 1.” Group 1 members also include such cancer causing agents as
cigarettes and plutonium. The annual medical cost related to skin cancer secondary to indoor tanning is over $343 million.
As summer on the Cape continues please remember the important preventive steps you can take for you and your family:
Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Cover up with clothing, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Find a sunscreen classified as “broad spectrum” (this means it blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF rating of 15 or
greater – and use it every day.
If you will be outdoors for an extended period, use a water -resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Apply two tablespoons of sunscreen over exposed areas and reapply every two hours for those days you are outdoors.
Babies less than six months should avoid being outdoors. For babies over six months, sunscreen may be used but
prudence is still the word.
Don’t use tanning booths or beds.
Seeing your physician annually for a skin check is important, but it’s also important for you to learn to examine your skin, and
do so on a regular basis. A good guideline available from the American Academy of Dermatology titled “How to Spot Skin
Cancer” is available by following this link: https://www.aad.org/public/spot-skin-cancer/learn-about-
skin-cancer/detect/how-to-spot-skin-cancer.
BE WELL! LIVE STRONG! LIVE LONG!
Charlie Altieri, RN, Public Health Nurse
Ref: Medical staff newsletter - Cape Cod Health
July 2018 Page 11
Brewster, MA
Sightings from the Poop Deck
MONTAUK MANOR
“Some days I wish I could go back in life. Not to change anything, but to feel a few
things twice.”
Author unknown
When I was a teenager in Passaic High School, New Jersey, I had the opportunity to spend my summers camping
at Hither Hills State Park, Montauk, New York, courtesy of my best friend’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Reilly.
What made these summers particularly special was that Mr. Reilly’s close friend was the pro at the Montauk
Downs Country Club, a Mr. “Bumps” Leddy, and shortly after our arrival my friend Bob became the caddymaster
and I became the caddy for some pretty good paying loops. Caddy fees back then were $1.50 for a single bag for
nine holes and $3.00 for a double, so for eighteen the rate was $6.00 plus tip. Sounds kind of chincy today, but
we’re talking many many years ago and back then we caddies had no complaints. We earned a lot of money when
you consider the buying power of a buck when adjusted for inflation, spent our afternoons at the beach and every
Monday was Caddy Day, when we could play for free.
What I remember about Montauk mostly was the Montauk Manor, a stately hotel high up on the hill overlooking
the little hamlet of Montauk, that I could only imagine was there for the rich. I remember Gurney ’s Inn on the
Old Montauk Highway, again, built only for the rich and famous. We would pass these landmarks hitchhiking
along the highway on our way to the club and hitchhiking was our only mode of transportation, since we were too
young to drive. Times were different then and motorists did not hesitate to pick us up and actually drop us off at
the club doorstep.
I remember White’s Pharmacy and soda fountain which still exists, although in a new building around the corner
and while still a pharmacy, it has also become a department store sans soda fountain and no soda jerk. As I
walked into the store I thought I heard someone say, “There’s one!” The original White’s is now a liquor store
whose owners were kind enough give us a little history lesson on the soda fountain….”it was right here!” Tuma’s
Tackle shop is now gone and I was told that Mr. Tuma passed a few years ago. The Trails End bar also survived.
I never realized over the years that I must have told many stories about Montauk to Joanie Carfora, so one day in
May she said, “why don’t we go, I’d like to see it.” Truthfully, after so many years I too wanted to see it again.
I arranged for a three night stay at The Montauk Manor dispelling the myth that it was built only for the rich. The
Cross Island Ferry from New London to Orient Point runs every hour and we were on it. We had a beer at
Gurney’s Inn, drove out to Montauk Point Lighthouse, took in the sights along the waterfront, drove past Hither
Hills State Park and snickered as I passed by the site of The Blue Marlin, a local watering hole which we could not
patronize in the old days since you had to be eighteen to drink. However, I do happen to remember a story told to
me by Johnny Voter, a kid from Closter, New Jersey, who was eighteen and did often visit The Blue Marlin. It
appears that JV had too much to drink one night, walked out to the parking lot with a pitcher of beer, looked up at
the glowing blue neon sign on the roof, which read Blue Marlin and heaved the pitcher right at it. He took out
the letters ‘U” and “E’ and from that night and forever more it became known as The BL Marlin. I happen to
know that Johnny may still be on-the-run, but at his age he can't be running very fast and could be in the witness
protection program. You will know him if you happen to see him….one of his two front teeth is probably still
missing.
Peter R. Scheffer (“Life is Good!”) - Take the time to smell the roses!
P.S. We’re going back next May - we’re old enough to drink! - Happy Fourth of July!
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.
Please 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 transport 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 thru Friday) in advance so that we can find a volunteer to pro-
vide your ride. Please notify the COA if you can’t keep your appointment so we
can notify our drivers. 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.
This agency and its programs are funded (in whole or in part) by a contract
from Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, the MA Executive Office
of Elder Affairs, and the Federal Administration for Community Living.
Page 12 July 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
.