The Coastal Buzz Fall 2023

Buzz

SOUND THERAPY FOR HEALING

“NIGHT ON THE TOWN” SENIOR PROM

VIKKI & NIKKI, THE ANSWER LADIES GARDEN

THE MAGAZINE OF COASTAL CAROLINA ACTIVE LIVING

FALL 2023

To be the cornerstone that best understands and supports the emotional, physical, and social needs of adults 50 and over.

CONTRIBUTORS

Pat Naughton and his family moved from Richmond, Va. to Winding River Plantation in Brunswick County in 2017 after Pat retired as a mechanical engineer at a nuclear power plant. He has been an avid gardener for 35 years and is a Brunswick County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer. Pat’s tips on fall gardening are on page 19.

After retiring from leadership roles in engineering and IT at a major confectionary manufacturer, Beth Klahre relocated to Southport with her husband, Jeff, and their dog, Betsy. Beth has been enjoying reading on the beach, learning to play the harp, and writing human-interest stories. She is a board member of the Friends of the Library of Oak Island and Southport. On page 12, Beth investigates sound therapy, and on page 10, she takes us on a tour of the Senior Games.

Joan Leotta has been playing with words on page and stage since her childhood in Pittsburgh. Her poetry and essays appear in many publications. Her four historical fiction novels feature strong women in times of U.S. wars, and her newest poetry chapbook, Feathers on Stone, was recently released. Joan cooks up some zoodles on page 20.

Donna Ruth Morgan is a book lover who supports better libraries for better communities. She volunteers with area library organizations and enjoys sharing her passion for reading with family and friends. Donna’s fall book reviews are on page 15.

Jean Agha-Khan and her husband relocated to Carolina Shores in 2021. She has lived in such far-flung places as Alaska and Pakistan and spent five years in London, England. Before moving to the area, her family lived in Winesburg, a tiny Amish town in Ohio, where they still have two inns. Jean volunteers for an international nonprofit organization, and does freelance writing. Her hobbies include writing and cycling. Jean looks at the lighter side of downsizing on page 16.

Marla Andreoli-Weber is a recently retired special educator from West Virginia. She grew up swimming and clamming on the north shore of Long Island and now enjoys making crafts with the shells and driftwood she finds along the N.C. shoreline. She and her husband and dog enjoy living the coastal lifestyle and the new friends they are making here. Marla is helping to reduce Buzz errors with her eagle-eyed proofreading skills.

ABOUT THE COVER

Senior Aging Resources Specialist René Tarquinio, left, and Medication Access Specialist Marilou Smith had a banner year! Their efforts saved Medicare recipients $1.7 million in 2022. Many thanks to these two and their teams. Read more about the feat and the savings on page 32.

THE COASTAL BUZZ

Editor

Shelagh Clancy

buzz@bsrinc.org

(910) 622-1036

Contributing Writers

Jean Agha-Khan, Holley Joyce, Beth Klahre, Joan Leotta, Jodi Lower, Mike McGurn, Donna Ruth Morgan, Pat Naughton, Casey Poplaski, René Tarquinio

Contributing Photographers

Tonya Barnes, Sarah Goodwin, Dana Greene, Holley Joyce, Joan Leotta, Jodi Lower, Mike McGurn, Tikila Morgan, Melissa Starr

Advertising Sales

(910) 754-2300

Anita Langin

alangin@bsrinc.org

Shelagh Clancy

buzz@bsrinc.org

© 2022 Brunswick Senior Resources Inc. All rights reserved www.bsrinc.org

Photo by Dana Greene

BRUNSWICK SENIOR RESOURCES, INC.

3620 Express Dr., P.O. Box 2470, Shallotte, NC 28459

www.bsrinc.org

(910) 754-2300

Fax 910-754-9269 | Office Hours 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

BSRI Administration Staff

Jim Fish, President & CEO

Yvette Gosline, ChiefOperatingOfficer

Jennifer Sherman, Chief ComplianceOfficer

Melody Stephens, Directorof Operations

Lindsay Cooley, Chief Financial Officer

Melissa Catlett, Director of ProgramDevelopment

Courtney Bledsoe, Director of Communications & Public Relations

Jodi Lower, Volunteer Coordinator

Anita Langin, AccountingTechnician  Derissa Gore, Aging Resources ComplianceOfficer

Mike McGurn, Managerof Thrift Store Operations

Robert Goodman, Assistant Thrift Store Operations Manager

Chauvet “Mel” Jackson, OperationsTechnician

Justin Benoy, ProjectTechnician

Susan West, SeniorHousingCoordinator

Tammie Mullis, FoodServiceManager

Veronica Lett-McGee, Mental Health Specialist

Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 919-814-5400. The license is not an endorsement by the state.

BSRI STAFF MEMBER OF THE MONTH

Tammie Mullis, Food Service Manager

What

do I do at BSRI: “Tricky question, I do whatever they need me to do!”

Tammie’s first job was at McDonald’s, and she’s stepped up the culinary ladder since then. She studied culinary arts in college and she loves to cook and make people happy with food.

She grew up in Ashe County, and moved to Ocean Isle Beach with her boyfriend, Steve, eight years ago to escape the cold winters.

“We go to the outdoor concerts in Brunswick County and we head to North Myrtle Beach every weekend,” Tammie says, “where we listen to bands and have a wonderful group of friends that we call family. I love to spend a Sunday afternoon going up the waterway on the pontoon and just soak in the sounds, smells and sights.”

Tammie’s favorite season is summer, and she’s currently reading (aptly enough) The Omnivore’s Dilemma.

NORTH CAROLINA TO BECOME AN AGE-FRIENDLY STATE

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper recently issued Executive Order No. 280 directing the Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) to continue the state’s commitment to building an age-friendly state.

The order directs state agencies

to develop a Multisector Plan for Aging; to convene a Caregiving Workforce Strategic Leadership group to bolster the caregiving workforce; to improve adult protective services; to improve access to outdoor spaces; to improve transportation options; and

to improve access to broadband and digital literacy.

“In just a few short years, there will be more people living in North Carolina over age 65 than under 17,” said Joyce Massey Smith, Director of the Division on Aging and Adult Services for NCDHHS.

SHOP BSRI THRIFT STORES

North Carolina Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Lisa Wallace will speak about Social Security updates, including new earnings limits for those who are working and still under full retirement age. She will also talk about the newly-designed SSA website and how best to navigate the pages.

She is a wonderful speaker with a wealth of experience and knowledge!

The event will be virtual on Sept. 20, from 10 to 11 a.m. Call 910-754-2300 to register.

Candlelight Reflections Honors Caregivers

BSRI’s Aging Resources Division will host a Candlelight Reflections Ceremony to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and to honor caregivers.

The Candlelight Reflections Ceremony is at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15, at The Brunswick Center at Southport. RSVP to 910-754-8450.

CATLETT NAMED TO NEW ROLE

BSRI is pleased to name Melissa Catlett to the new position of Director of Program Development. Catlett was previously Southport Center Director for six years.

She has more than 30 years’ experience in human services, and almost 20 years in aging services.

“I have enjoyed being the director of the Southport Center for the past six years,” Catlett says. “It has been a dream job, for sure. I’m looking forward to creating new relationships with the other centers’ staff and participants, and expanding my reach in the area.

“I am truly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to serving all of Brunswick Senior Resources’ Coastal Carolina Active Living locations!”

Catlett lives in Southport with her husband, Steve, and Buddy the Cat. Her son, Camden Jones, and fiancée Cameron Rogers, live in Raleigh; her stepdaughter, Emma Catlett, lives in Myrtle Beach. In her spare time, Catlett enjoys crafting, reading, and enjoying friends and family.

Welcome Back, Courtney

Courtney Bledsoe is rejoining our BSRI team as Director of Communications and Public Relations. Bledsoe previously worked for BSRI as Calabash Senior Center Director and as Director of Corporate Strategy. Over the past year, she has worked with BSRI as a consultant.

Beldsoe is excited to join the BSRI family in this new position. “This position in communications and public relations is the perfect fit for my skills and experience,” she says. “I have been able to explore different roles over the years and have learned what my strengths are.

“I will be working with individuals and teams across our organization and the community to improve BSRI’s marketing efforts, client communications, brand awareness, and so much more. I’m so excited to be back on board and look forward to supporting the growth and success of our many programs, services, and initiatives.”

Hunger and Homeless Banquet

Brunswick County’s Homeless Coalition will host a Hunger and Homeless Banquet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 18 at Elah Baptist Church, 1527 Old Fayetteville Rd. in Leland. Enjoy homemade soups, wonderful breads, and cookies. This is a sit-down event with a presentation, lunch, and a time for questions.

“All proceeds go directly toward rent assistance, utilities, even gas for someone to get to work or a medical appointment,” Homeless Coalition Board Member Betsy Duarte says.

Coastal Carolina

Active Living centers coordinate monthly social outings that you don’t want to miss! Seniors at The Brunswick Center at Supply recently had lunch at one of the historic restaurants on the Southport waterfront. They also took an informative boat tour of Southport.

To learn more about our resources, call Aging Resource Specialist Tikila Morgan at 910-754-8450.

QUARTER AUCTION FUNDRAISER

SEPTEMBER 23,2023

Doors Open at 5:00 pm

Auction Starts at 6:00 pm

Paddles are $5 Each

Quarter Bids, Raffle Items, Dinner, Assorted Snacks, Desserts & Lots of Fun!

THE BRUNSWICK CENTER AT LELAND

121 TOWN HALL DR. LELAND, NC 28451

Our Mission: To promote the well-being and enhance the quality of life for all senior adults of Brunswick County.

at The Brunswick Center at Leland

SUPPLY CENTER GOES TO SOUTHPORT

Brunswick County’s New Emergency Alert System

ReadyBrunswick is Brunswick County’s new emergency notification system to keep you informed. It only takes a minute to enroll. Sign up at brunswickcountync.gov/e-alerts.

The ReadyBrunswick system sends emergency alert notifications in these communication methods:

• Landline (Voice)

• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

• Mobile (Voice)

• Mobile SMS (Text Messaging)

• Email

When there’s a potential emergency, such as a hurricane, ReadyBrunswick sends a message through your primary contact path. If you don’t confirm receipt of the message, the system will try to reach your second contact path, and continues trying to reach you until you confirm receipt.

If you need assistance registering online, call Brunswick County Emergency Services Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 910-253-5383, or email emergency.management@ brunswickcountync.gov.

Brave Enough to Donate Blood

ByHolleyJoyce

Heather Puglisi, Calabash assistant director, donated blood for the very first time in June. Fear of needles and anxiety had always held her back, but she conquered her fear because she saw firsthand how donating saves lives.

Heather’s husband, Jimmy, has been on an unnerving journey of healing for over six months, with many doctor visits, sleepless nights, and a great deal of persistence to find an answer. During Jimmy’s time in the hospital, he received blood transfusions. Because of this, Heather fought her fear of donating blood and is now happy to do so any time she is able!

As an outsider looking in, I have been proud of their determination, strength, and love for one another.

We had 22 successful donors in June, which means that 66 lives could be saved!

Can you donate blood? Yes, you can! The Brunswick Center at Calabash will have another blood drive Sept 20, as part of their health fair.

FALL HEALTH FAIRS

All our Coastal Carolina Active Living Centers are hosting health fairs this fall in conjunction with the Brunswick County Wellness Coalition. You’ll find vendors, screenings, vaccinations, education, and more on these days:

The Brunswick Center at Leland: Sept. 6

The Brunswick Center at Calabash: Sept. 20

The Brunswick Center at Southport: Sept. 22

The Brunswick Center at Shallotte: Oct 12

The Brunswick Center at Supply: Oct 19

Brunswick County Senior Games

ByBethA.Klahre

Brunswick County showed up in full force at this year’s Brunswick County Senior Games with over 500 participants in sporting and artistic events. According to Chris and Gary Mlynek, Brunswick County Gator Senior Games Ambassadors, the Games had a lots of F’s: “Fitness, friends, fun, fellowship, family and food. Always great food.”

Nearly 70 events were held in April and May. Artist entries were showcased during the first week of May at the Leland Cultural Arts Center.

The Games promote healthy living for mind and body, a goal for all of us, Chris says. Eligible winners may compete in North Carolina State Senior Games held in Raleigh this fall.

The Healing Power of Sound Sound Sound

ByBethA.Klahre

Whether you recognize it or not, we have all experienced the power of sound. It’s that feeling of calm you get listening to rainfall as you drift off to sleep. It’s your mood lifting when you hear your favorite song. And it’s the peacefulness of birds chirping in the morning.

History of Sound Therapy

Sound therapy has been around for a long time, dating back to prehistoric times when soothsayers

chanted and drummed to heal people. Australian Aboriginals used the didgeridoo, an enigmatic musical instrument, to heal broken bones and other illnesses. Tibetans used metal singing bowls in spiritual and healing ceremonies and bells and chimes in religious ceremonies. Buddhists used sound as a mindfulness practice. And Christianity has traditionally embraced sound: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord,” the Bible says.

Sound healing today combines the ancient with the modern, using ways of the past merged with today’s technology. There’s a vast amount of scientific research on the healing benefits of ultrasound waves in breaking up kidney stones and shrinking tumors.

Healing Body, Mind, and Soul

Teresa Bennett-Yates, a native of Brunswick County, is the only licensed vibrational sound practitioner in coastal North and South Carolina. She’s been practicing for the past five years and has a deep passion for the ancient healing art. She received her training through Vibrational Sound Association in Nebraska.

“I discovered the benefits of sound healing and felt a strong calling to share this ancient healing modality. Sound therapy rediscovers the power of sound and the plethora of benefits including physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Using specialized vibrational instruments and frequencies, I create a therapeutic atmosphere to promote deep rest, nervous system rebalance and emotional release,” she says.

The Instruments of Sound Therapy

Instruments used in sound therapy include drums, crystal and Himalayan singing bowls, flutes, wind chimes, gongs, rattles, ocarinas, and voice. Bowls of various sizes are either struck with a mallet, creating a sustained tone; or a mallet is rubbed around the bowl, creating a sustained singing hum. Rattles containing

Sound therapy uses the healing benefits of sound waves to improve mental and physical health.

Photos provided by Teresa Bennett-Yates

different things inside create varying sounds. Wind chimes, sometimes made with thin pieces of volcanic glass, produce very gentle sounds like ice breaking in the winter. Gongs create very low sounds.

Bennett-Yates has a collection of sound therapy instruments including Himalayan singing bowls, quartz crystal and aluminum singing bowls, gongs, drums, and other vibrational sound instruments.

“During my individual sessions, you lie on a massage table and have specificallyengineered therapeutic singing bowls placed directly on your body that produce an internal massage delivering stress relief through extreme relaxation.

“I hold group sessions regularly at Movement Works in Calabash and I travel to take sound healing to as many places as possible,” she says.

Benefits of Sound Therapy

The benefits of sound therapy include release of stress, anxiety, tension, and pain, and a more natural physical, mental, and emotional state.

“Improved sleep, less chronic pain, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and a lower risk of heart disease are all advantages of sound healing. By restoring the normal and healthy vibrational frequencies of our cells, sound therapy guides us into profound states of relaxation. Sound therapy can help us achieve deep sleep and parasympathetic states where our bodies can repair, regenerate, and return to a place of health and happiness,” Bennett-Yates adds.

Sound Therapy for Older Adults

Bennett-Yates believes that sound therapy is great for older adults. “It helps to keep the brain sharp and greatly helps with physical ailments. It’s a great way to fall into a deep restful state.”

She also notes that sound healing is starting to move its way into end-of-life and hospice care as a way to be more relaxed and at ease during this transition, creating a calm and peaceful state.

To book solo or group sessions with Teresa Bennett-Yates, email teresa@cloud9reiki.com.

Instruments used in Sound Therapy include singing bowls placed on the body to produce an internal massage.

Teresa Bennet-Yates, a licensed vibrational sound prectitioner, offers sound therapy in group sessions at Movement Works in Calabash and other sites.

BSRI Thrift Stores are Full of Surprises!

ByMikeMcGurn ThriftStoresOperationsManager

At BSRI Thrift Stores, we just never know what kind of amazing donation will come in next! That means that our customers never know what kind of unique item or great deal they’ll find. Lately, the quality, rarity, and uniqueness of some items has been truly amazing!

For example, we recently had an antique wheelchair at the Calabash store, a first for us. The Calabash store also had a propane fire pit table and a complete double vanity with a cultured marble top, two sink base cabinets and a drawer bank, both also firsts for us. We’ve also had a couple of vintage sewing machines.

with a donation of a brand-new sectional sofa which retailed for $600. Our price was $399 and it sold to a senior on 20% Off Senior Wednesday, which means they bought it for only $319!

What’s in Our Shallotte Store?

The Shallotte store is full of unusual items too. We recently received a large number of pre-hung double interior doors, generously donated by Lowe’s Home Center. We have several different styles and sizes along with a number of interior door slabs.

Get a Move On

We’ve had some very nice treadmills and elliptical machines in both stores recently. The Calabash store had another large collection of Longaberger baskets along with a collection of clown figurines and porcelain Mardi Gras masks. Someone even donated a large collection of cow figurines and ceramic cow figures in all sizes and poses along with a lot of cow-related merchandise. The Shallotte store received a collection of lighthouses recently too.

Every day is truly a new adventure at BSRI Thrift Stores, both for our staff and our customers, which is why it’s so much fun to stop and shop with us whenever you can. We really appreciate your support!

There’s a great mix of old and new. We were recently blessed

The Shallotte store also had a vintage decorative, four-panel wooden privacy screen, a couple of large decorative tobacco baskets, and several large desks with shelving and cabinets on top. You can find old and new at the Shallotte store, with everything from a vintage bassinet to a brand-new KitchenAid Pro HD Mixer that retails for $649, our price $299!

Don’t forget our upcoming Fall Changeovers at each store! The Calabash store will hold its Fall Changeover on Monday, Sept. 18 and the Shallotte store’s will be on Monday, Sept. 25. The stores will be closed until 1 p.m. on those days so we can restock them with our newly-arrived inventory of Fall and Winter clothing and accessories. See you soon!

Fall Reads from County Libraries

ByDonnaRuthMorgan

All these recent books from 2023 are available for borrowing from Brunswick County libraries. Please let us know what you think, and send us titles you love.

Victory City weaves magical realism from South Asian history and cultural myths. An orphan is imbued with supernatural powers and gifted with magical seeds to create a city founded on equality and pluralism. Those ideals crumble slowly and agonizingly like its buildings. An absolute glut of characters, repetitive subplots, and longwinded prose overwhelm Salman Rushdie’s latest offering. Nutshell review: Over-hyped letdown.

The Language of Trees: A Rewilding of Literature and Landscape was curated by Katie Holten and is illustrated by her unique tree drawings and typeface. Poetry, prose, and art from all ages and corners of the globe are arranged in bite-sized meditations. This inspiring book invites us to connect with nature in gratitude for its beauty and bounty. Nutshell review: Embraces “tree thinking” in alignment with the universal order.

In Birnam Wood, the flaws of capitalism and hypocrisy of progressivism intersect as tongue-incheek drama unfolds. Eleanor Catton explores topics

considered verboten in today’s culture—but in fiction, all are fair game. Readers will enjoy exploding political narratives amid antics from “eco-terrorist” gardeners who begin as idealists but end up as evildoers. Nutshell review: Satirical commentary on activism.

Walk the Blue Line is a compilation of oral history from fifty law enforcement officers. Best-selling novelist James Patterson and former Army Ranger Matt Eversmann (Black Hawk Down) recorded gripping first-person narratives that illuminate the motivations behind individuals who chose lifeand-death jobs for the benefit of others. Nutshell review: An homage to those sworn to protect and serve.

The setting of Camp Zero is a near-future dystopia where the exploitation of nature, women, and minorities collide.

Debut author Michelle Min Sterling’s fractured timeline flashes between “then” and “now” to explore the struggles survivors face in apocalyptic times. Nutshell review: Classified Young Adult but bridges the gap between generations for fans of speculative fiction.

A “Moving” Story

ByJeanAgha-Khan

Pam and Jerry were about to embark on their first major home relocation in 30 years. They had discussed downsizing and moving to a retirement community for several years, but now a comment by their son spurred them to action.

“Some of my friends,” he began, jabbing his fork in the air for emphasis, “are moving back in with their parents to save money. My dogs—plural—would love this big yard. You have plenty of space It would be great!’”

Within three weeks, they had a contract for a small home: no basement, tiny yard, and a twodog limit from the homeowners association. They would remain empty nesters—a narrow escape.

Think Positive!

Optimism is key in embarking on such a monumental project as moving. Without a sunny outlook on the process, most of us would quit before we started. So, this couple had what they were sure was an excellent plan.

Their first step was to create four categories: keep, donate, store (maybe a little head shaking from Jerry on this one), and toss. Clearly “keep” and “toss” would be the

easiest decisions to make.

They agreed to start with the toughest room: the basement. They foraged behind local stores for boxes and they bought bins, bubble wrap, packing tape, and a large box of multi-colored indelible markers. The Pam-and-Jerry team were ready to roll!

You may see the problems with their plan. When people are tasked with judging each other’s belongings, it causes division. We have fundamental views on the value of “stuff.”

Movers generally fall into three categories: The Sentimental (“It’s a family heirloom!”); The Saver (“You never know, we might need this someday”), and The Ruthlessly Practical (“We don’t need this junk. Let’s get a dumpster and toss it all”). In many cases, we fit into one category when assessing our own belongings, and quite another when it comes to someone else’s belongings.

The Yawning Abyss

The first morning of “Project Outta Here,” Jerry’s name for their endeavor, started in the kitchen as Jerry cooked breakfast. “Best way to start any day,” he cheerfully proclaimed. Pam stood at the top of the basement stairs. She rarely

descended those steps. Jerry put Christmas away every year, and she only opened the door to toss miscellaneous junk down when unexpected guests turned up. “Yawning abyss,” were the words running through her mind.

The basement was divided by Jerry’s tools, supplies, and “projects underway” on one side, and holiday and kid’s stuff on the other. After arranging the boxes and bins up the middle, with garbage bags at each end, Pam color-coded each box according to its category. She had created a poster indicating rooms and the color used for each category. Each would work on their area of interest, while both would agree on the categories. There would be few, if any, disagreements.

How could they go wrong?

Keep or Toss?

Obvious trash went quickly; they worked as a team, no problems. Then Pam surveyed Jerry’s side of the room. “We don’t need this,” she proclaimed, as she held up a large roll of telephone wire.

“We might, and that wire is hard to find,” Jerry said.

Slightly miffed, Pam tried to keep the irritation out of her voice. “It’s hard to find because nobody uses it anymore.”

“Still, I’m gonna hold onto it,” Jerry said. There was, now, a slight air of tension. Jerry then reached for a plastic bin stacked with holiday items.

“What’s this?” he asked, holding up what appeared to be a chunk of dried playdough.

“Ohhhhh, I remember that. The kids made their own Christmas ornaments when they were little.”

“Just toss ’em,” Jerry said, as he held out a trash bag.

Pam was aghast. “The children made those—they’re sentimental.”

The end of the first day concluded with Pam covering her things with moving blankets to protect them from Jerry. Jerry, believing she would throw his wire away, slept with it under the bed.

In the final days of the work, Pam walked through the house counting bins and boxes. It didn’t take long to

see there had been very little actual downsizing. The “keep” and “save” boxes and bins far outnumbered what they had planned. The rented trailer was not going to accommodate it all.

A Peek in the Garage

My own family too rented a trailer, expecting it to be sufficient. On moving day, we began loading. The trailer filled up quickly. Even jamming and rearranging the contents, we still had at least another trailer full. Still optimistic, we tried to fit the rest into the pickup truck.

Then came the anger and frustration. “This isn’t going to work,” my husband snapped. We stood together, staring with disbelief at the towering stack of stuff. How could we possibly drive ten hours without scattering boxes and bins all over the highway?

Hours later, with a massive amount of tarp and tie-downs, we drove away from the family home. I anxiously watched as the tarps flew around and the giant load swayed with every turn. At this point, we were not speaking to each other. Every time we had to stop to adjust the tarps and tie-downs, my husband grumbled, “Why does she need all this stuff?” I eyed the excessive number of boxes marked “Miscellaneous tools and supplies,” with equal disdain. And yet, we eventually made it to our new home.

I ride my bicycle a great deal, passing many open garages. Many are packed full of boxes, bins, and random items, and I feel a bit comforted. Our failed attempt at downsizing is not unique. And, after all, I regularly tell myself, our garage isn’t as bad as these others: I have space to park my bicycle, and I have the Mother’s Day cards my sons made in preschool!

LIFTING AND TRAINING IN CALABASH

ByJodiLower VolunteerCoordinator

Peek into Coastal Carolina Active Living’s center in Calabash and you may find Theresa Massucci Holt teaching participants to be stronger. A licensed occupational therapist and certified personal trainer, Theresa has all the best moves.

Buzz: What do you do as a volunteer with BSRI?

Theresa: I instruct the Strength and Tone classes twice a week in Calabash. The class focuses on resistance training using dumbbells, body weight, and resistance bands. I emphasize developing optimal form and technique in a controlled manner. The goal is to help mitigate some of the effects of aging, specifically loss of muscle mass, strength, stability, and bone loss. Ultimately, this is part of a lifestyle aimed at improving one’s health.

Buzz: How did you find out about BSRI?

Theresa: When I moved to the area in 2022, I sought out ways to continue to share my passion for all things fitness and strength training. Coastal Carolina Active living is a good fit. I love being part of this organization.

Buzz: What do you like about volunteering?

Theresa: I love the energy and commitment of everyone I’ve met

who is part of the center. The participants are motivated and committed. I’m very impressed!

Buzz: What is your volunteer background?

Theresa: Volunteer work has always been an integral part of my life, from volunteering at nursing homes, assisted living facilities, church groups, and Relay for Life, as well as being an active volunteer at my kids’ school as they were growing up. One of the most rewarding experiences was leading the exercise program at an assisted living facility for disabled residents in Richmond for many years.

I grew close to many residents and was sad to move away.

Buzz: Tell us about yourself.

Theresa: My husband Todd and I moved first to St. Louis and then here from Powhatan, Virginia, just outside of Richmond. We live in the Ocean Ridge Plantation community in Ocean Isle Beach.

I grew up In New York and moved to Virginia in 1986 to attend graduate school, earning an MS in occupational therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University.

I’m a licensed occupational therapist and a certified personal trainer. I’m also a certified kettlebell and barbell instructor and have a certification in sports nutrition. Prior to 2020, I worked in an outpatient upper extremity/ hand clinic. I also trained students at a functional performance gym.

I’ve been married to my husband, Todd, for 32 years. We have two adult sons who live in Charlotte and Miami. We love taking our lab, Tucker, for long walks on Sunset Beach, farm-to-table restaurants, travelling, and spending time with friends. I love reading classic literature, historical fiction, and books by health and fitness experts. I love to entertain and cook.

I’m committed to training with barbells, kettlebells, and the Concept 2 rower. I’m treading into the area of playing golf, and hoping to improve enough to enjoy it!

10 Things Not to Do This Fall

ByPatNaughton

Avid gardeners love to be out in the yard and busy in the garden. The plants are taking a rest now, and maybe you should too. Here are ten things not do this fall.

Don’t water the lawn. Turn off the irrigation on Labor Day. There’s no need to water when the turf is dormant from fall to spring. Turn irrigation back on when the turf starts to turn green in spring.

Don’t apply high-nitrogen fertilizer. Fertilizers are specified by three numbers like 10-10-10. The first number is nitrogen, which promotes blade growth, not necessarily desirable in the fall. Fall is the time to promote root growth, which needs potassium, the last number. Fertilizer like 0-0-30 should be applied six weeks before the first expected frost—for this area, the middle of November. For more information, consult the NC State Extension Lawn Maintenance Calendars (https://content.ces.ncsu. edu/catalog/series/227/).

Don’t apply weed killers. Lawn herbicides generally need ambient temperatures above 60 degrees to be effective.

Don’t prune perennials. Some perennials need foliage to protect new shoots. Woody perennials offer some height to the area for birds to shelter in. If you do cut perennials to the ground, cover them with

a layer of mulch and mark the location. Remove the mulch in the spring.

Don’t prune hydrangeas. Some hydrangeas, like “Endless Summer,” bloom on old growth and should be pruned immediately after the flowers die back. Others, like “Limelight,” bloom on new growth and should be pruned in late winter to spring. Not sure which type you have? Wait till spring to see where the new growth is and prune out the dead wood.

Don’t prune trees and shrubs. Pruning stimulates growth which will not harden off before winter, making it susceptible to damage. Trees should be pruned in late winter when they are dormant. Shrubs that bloom on new growth can also be pruned at this time.

Spring-flowering shrubs should be pruned after flowers die back.

Don’t cut back ornamental grasses. Brown is a color too! Brown ornamental grasses have a nice texture and movement in the wind. Cut them back in spring when the new growth begins.

Don’t deadhead seed heads. Coneflowers, sunflowers, and black-eyed Susans are winter sources of food for the birds. Leave the seed heads alone till spring.

Don’t bag leaves. Leaves should be removed from the lawn but not sent to the landfill. They’re a good source of nitrogen and minerals for plants. Chopped-up leaves will decompose faster. They can be chopped up with a lawn mower. I prefer a garbage can and weed whacker for this task.

Don’t clean up debris. Fallen debris, brush piles, leaves, and hollow stems offer habitat for beneficial insects to make it through the winter. Don’t be in a rush to tidy up the garden.

PhotobyCathyDeWitt,NCStateExtension

Ornamental grasses like this Muhlenbergia-caprillaris provide winter interest and habitat.

Photo by Ilya Lisauskas

Don’t prune hydrangeas in the fall. Remember, brown is a color, too!

SPIRALIZE IT! Easy Recipes for Zucchini

ByJoanLeotta

Has someone left a bag of zucchini at your doorstep? Every summer and early fall, jokes abound about the proliferation of the long green squash that is tasty raw, cooked on the stove, mixed with other veggies, and grated into savories and sweets. One of my favorite ways to present zucchini on our dinner table is spiralized.

The texture of spiralized zucchini (aka zoodles) puts it at the top of my list of savory

serving options.

Why spiralize instead of buying the squash already cut into strings for you at the supermarket? Your product will be fresher and cheaper. And your spiralizer lets you control the amount you have to use, and (if you have the right tool) it’s easy to use and clean, and you can use it on other veggies as well.

A bit of advice on zoodles:

Zucchini is a watery vegetable and your pile of zoodles will reduce like a stack of greens, i.e., a lot! I

put the zoodles in a strainer, salt lightly, and let them sit over a bowl for a couple of hours to drain.

If I have leftover zucchini, I either spiralize the rest and save it for a quick salad or cut the rest of the zucchini into chunks to roast for use in soup.

If you love pasta but want to cut back on carbs, the half-pasta, half-spiralized-zucchini and the shrimp with zoodles (from my husband’s recipes) are well worth the little bit of stovetop heat.

Joe’s Shrimp Scampi Zoodles

Serves 2

3 Tbsp. butter

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

½ cup dry white wine or apple juice

¾ pound of medium peeled and deveined shrimp

Salt and black pepper to taste

3-4 cups of zucchini zoodles (2 medium zucchini)

¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley

Spiralize your zucchini and set aside.

Heat the butter and oil in a deep skillet over medium high heat. Add the garlic and red pepper, stir about two minutes, then add the wine. Reduce until the alcohol smell is gone and the liquid is golden. Add shrimp and a bit of salt and pepper and cook until the shrimp turns pink, about two minutes. Add the zoodles and toss with tongs until they wilt slightly and are well combined with the shrimp, maybe three minutes more. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with parsley.

Half Pasta, Half Zoodles

Cut down on carbs while you enjoy your favorite pasta! Serves two.

4 ounces long pasta like spaghetti or linguini

2 zucchini, spiralized, zoodle lengths cut to a forkfriendly size

1/2 cup sliced tomatoes

4 Tbsp. olive oil

2 Tbsp. basil leaves, chopped

2 cloves garlic, diced

Salt and red pepper flakes to taste

Pecorino Romano cheese to taste

Boil the pasta until it is al dente.

At the same time, brown the garlic in the olive oil over low heat, then add the zoodles, basil, and oregano.

Drain the pasta, reserving a little of the pasta water in case the dish is too dry, and add the pasta to the zoodles. Add salt and red pepper flakes to taste. Add some Pecorino Romano and the cut tomatoes.

No-Cook Zoodle Salad for Two

Recipes with no cooking at all are appealing in warm weather, and zucchini is crisp and refeshing when raw. This salad can be made into a main course with the addition of burrata (one ball per person), feta cheese, or cooked chicken. Serves 2.

2 medium zucchini

4 Tbsp. olive oil

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

1 Tbsp. basil leaves, chopped

JOAN’S FAVORITE SPIRALIZER

When choosing a kitchen gadget, I evaluate it on versatility, ease of use, and ease of cleaning. Even the most versatile item will languish in my cabinet if it’s not easy to use.

I purchased my Paderno brand spiralizer almost 10 years ago and it fits the bill. It has three attachments. I place the machine on the counter, cut off the ends of the squash, affix it to both ends and turn the crank. Voilà! In just a few minutes I have as many zoodles as I want.

1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

1 small garlic clove, diced

1 Tbsp. chopped onion

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup sliced cherry tomatoes

Spiralize the zucchini, cutting strands into the length you want. Sprinkle the zoodles with salt and drain them over a bowl for about an hour.

In a glass measuring cup, mix the olive oil, vinegar, basil, Dijon, and garlic. Let it stand.

When the zoodles have drained, mix them with the dressing. Add the tomatoes, mix, and let stand for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Photos by Joan Leotta

PUZZLES STATEPOINT CROSSWORD FRUITS & VEGETABLES

ACROSS

1. Itsy Bitsy Spider’s tunnel

6. Operations, as in military

9. Carpenter’s joint

13. Book, in Paris

14. Coach’s talk

15. Long-necked wader

16. Did not go out to eat (2 words)

17. Chi preceder

18. Top scout

19. *’90s children’s series

“____ in Pyjamas”

21. *Alternative to stick

23. T-cell killer, acr.

24. Show worry

25. Knee-related acronym

28. Sushi restaurant’s boozy offering

30. *Grilled cheese and ____ soup

35. Mouse to a snake

37. In ____, or together

39. Convicted one

40. *Pear or quince, botanically speaking

41. California and Nevada lake

43. Raja’s daughter

44. Uncouth ones

46. Of two minds

47. René Descartes’ “therefore”

48. Make wealthy

50. Use a surgical beam

52. Gingerbread creation

53. *When fruit is ready

55. Red-white-and-blue inits.

57. *”Hot” vegetableshaped toy

60. *L in BLT

64. 3-D picture in a book

65. U.N. workers’ grp.

67. Owned house or car, e.g.

68. Item on a cell phone bill

69. What’s old is new again, prefix

70. Popular electric car

71. Hair styling products

72. Scottish cap

73. British peers

DOWN

1. Block of concrete, e.g.

2. Pocket bread

3. Baker’s baker

4. Dickens’s Heep

5. Serena’s sport

6. Prefers

7. *Fairytale princess test

8. Virgo’s brightest star

9. Letter opener

10. Ship to Colchis

11. Airhead

12. The loneliest number?

15. Concerning this

20. Nautical “Stop!”

22. College assessment test, acr.

24. Camera’s tiny aperture

25. *Gwyneth Paltrow’s daughter

26. Sing like Tony Bennett

27. Madagascar primate

29. Myanmar currency

31. Bébé’s mother

32. Rooster, in the olden days

33. Polynesian kingdom

34. *Layered bulb

36. Giant Himalayan?

38. Lady Grantham of “Downton Abbey”

42. Follow as a consequence

45. Claw mark

49. “Battleship” exclamation

51. Heir’s concern

54. *At the end of a hot pepper or many a sweet potato

56. Cruising

57. Prepare to be shot

58. October birthstone

59. What Little Toot does

60. *Fruit of the ____

61. Brezhnev’s domain

62. Jailbird’s home

63. Airline postings

64. Dog breed from China

66. Grazing ground

SUDOKU

BSRI Nutrition Program: Noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday

BSL Program Information: BSL.recdesk.com or contact Sara Goodwin at 910.363.0276 or sgoodwin@cityofbsl.org

FALL 2023

CALABASH

Hours:

10050

Calabash, NC 28467

910-754-7427

• MassageswithAngieR^10:00-1:00, 2ndTues&4thThurs(except11/30)

• TaiChiat1:00on11/6only

• AwesomeAbsFriday,11/17&11/24,9:00 Z

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

The Coastal Buzz

CALABASH

Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

SEPTEMBER

1

10050 Beach Dr. SW, Calabash, NC 28467 910-754-7427

Open

19 Chatabout“Grief&LossinOlderAdults”w/ Trillium12:15

20 NoAgelessGrace,SocialSecurityUpdates (VirtualORatCenter)10:00,HealthWellnessFair 1:00-3:00

22 CinemaattheCenter:“Uncharted”12:30

25 CraftwithLindaR^12:30“ThinkingofYou”Card

OCTOBER

17 GoingBeyondthePinkPresentation(Breast CancerSupport&Education)12:00

20 BloodConnectionBloodDriveR^8:00-1:00 PineNeedleBasketWeavingR^$22

23 FireSafetyPresentation12:00,CraftwithLinda: PineconeTreeR^12:30,LastBeg.Balletone Class

24 CookingDemow/HomeInstead12 25 CaregiverSupportGroup2:00

27 CinemaattheCenter:“BookClubNextChapter” 12:30,LastPumpedUpStrength 30 CraftwithLinda:VeteranCardR^12:30, 31 PumpkinPaintingw/theDirectors9:30, HalloweenCostumeContest12:00

NOVEMBER

1 Sheriff’sOfficePresentation:Safety12:00

3 CinemaattheCenter:“Footloose”12:30

6 CraftwithLindaR^:WineCorkPictureFrame 12:30,TaiChiat1:00today,NoBasicLine

Dancing

13 BookClub:“TheScentKeeper”10:00

CraftwithLinda12:30R^SnowFlakeOrnament

15 Veteran’sDayCeremonyw/QuiltsofValor12:00

17 CinemaattheCenter:“BeautifulDayinthe Neighborhood”12:30

20 CoreStrength&Balancebegins10:15, ElksLodgePresentation12:00

CraftwithLinda12:30R^Bags&Tags

22 CaregiverSupportGroup2:00

27 CraftwithLinda12:30R^ChristmasCard

29 YMCAPresentation:NationalDiabetesMonth 12:00,NoBegMahJongg

CALABASH

Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Serenity Sound Journey

10050 Beach Dr. SW

Calabash, NC 28467

910-754-7427

Michele Dorland,

Thursdays, Sept. 7– Oct. 12, 10:00-11:30

Duringthis6-weekcourse,youwilllearn:

• ComputerBasics

• HowtouseWindows

• HowtouseEmail

• HowtousetheInternet

• OnlineSafety

See front desk to sign up.

Bath

Thursday, Sept. 21, from 2:15-3:00 p.m. here at the Calabash Center for just $5/person!

See front desk to sign up.

Blood Connection Blood Connection Blood Blood

Friday, October 6, Noon-2:00

Oct 20th, 8:00

Oct 8:00--1:00 1:00 1:00

E-gift cards will be distributed to all who donate! Ask us how to make your appointment!

Have you been putting off shots due to cost? Well, many are now covered by Medicare! Shots being offered on this day: Tetanus, Shingles, Pneumonia, Flu, COVID, Hep A & Hep B.

See the front desk to sign up!

The Coastal Buzz

pictured above, is hos ng a Vibra onal Sound

on

TechwithEd

CALABASH

Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

10050 Beach Dr. SW

Calabash, NC 28467

910-754-7427

Hot Diggity Dog 2023

LiveMusic,Dancing,Great Company,&SOmuchfun!

FALL 2023

This event was made possible thanks to our sponsors:

U.S. Foods

Sea & Sand Band

Calabash Garden Tea Room

Coffee Cottage

Blondiez Donuts

BSRI Thirft Store

Sunny Side Up Diner

Ingram Planetarium

Low Country Preserve

Ocean Ridge Plantation Golf

Calm Waters Massage

Sandpiper Bay Golf Course

Kat Koett with Mary Kay

+ THE BEST VOLUNTEERS IN THE WORLD!

The Coastal Buzz

LELAND

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

121 Town Hall Drive NE

Leland, NC 28451

910-754-7701

1st&3rdMondays,10:30a:Triviaw/Louise

1st&3rdTuesdays,10:30a:LelandLarks

1st&3rdWednesdays,1-3p:Hand&FootCards

3rdMonday,10:30a:SeashellCraftsN

3rdWednesdays,10:45a:BPChecks

LastWednesdays,9:30a:CoupsforTroops

2nd&4thThursdays,2p:MentalHealthTalk

3rdThursdays,11:45a:Meetw/CaseManager

4thThursdays,10a:CaregiverSupportGroup

1stFridays(AtLunch):Mo.BirthdayCelebration

1st&3rdFridays,9-12:QuiltingBee

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ;

R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

The Coastal Buzz

LELAND

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

4 MONDAY:CLOSEDforLaborDay 6

121 Town Hall Drive NE

Leland, NC 28451

910-754-7701

September 2023

15

20

CLOSEDforStaffEducation

23 SATURDAY:QuarterAuctionFundraiser!$

29 FRIDAY:TalentShow10R

29 FRIDAY:SeniorProminSupply!4-7pR$

October 2023

4 WEDNESDAY:Coffee&CinnamonRollsw/aCop 10;VeteranMeetUp11:30a

13 FRIDAY:ArtShow!Showcaseyourcreations!9-11

13 FRIDAY:WearPink!BreastCancerAwarenessDay

23 MONDAY:HealthyLivingforYourBrain&Body12p

31 TUESDAY:HalloweenParty10a

november 2023

10

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advance Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

FALL 2023

The Coastal Buzz

Chocolate Chip Cookie Day with David (le ) & Shirley (right), and Oil Pain ng with Maisie & Judy (center).

LELAND

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

SEPTEMBER

We are having a Health Fair!

Wednesday, Sept. 6 from 9–11 am. There will be variety of vendors and a pet adop on event hosted by Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue, so come on out and meet with mul ple medical professionals and get some puppy love!

It’ Senio Cente Mont!

Join us for PJ Day, Twin Day, Beach Day, and Leland’s very first talent show!

*More info to come*

It’s that time again!

Robyn Beliveau, a representative from the Board of Elections, is coming to speak about voting and will help you register! Sept. 8 at 10 am in the dining room!

121 Town Hall Drive NE

Leland, NC 28451

910-754-7701

OCTOBER

On All Hallows’ Eve, On All Hallows’ Eve, All Eve, All Eve, the Brunswick the Center at Leland will Center Leland will be having a having a Halloween Party! Halloween Party!

Tuesday, Tuesday, October 31 at 10 am in October 31 10 am in the dining room. the dining room. the dining room. the dining room.

There will be There will be There will There will costume contests, costume contests, costume contests, costume contests, games, spooky games, spooky snacks, music, and snacks, music, and snacks, music, and snacks, music, and ghoulish good times! ghoulish good times! ghoulish good times! ghoulish good times! Come if you dare… if you dare… BOO! BOO! BOO! BOO!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. On Monday, Oct. 13, wear pink to help spread awareness!

Join us for Coffee and Cinnamon Rolls with the Leland PD!

Paint Pouring with Janyce Paint Pouring with Janyce

Paint Pouring with Paint Pouring with Wednesday, September 12 at Wednesday, September 12 at Wednesday, September 12 Wednesday, September 12

12 1212 12--1 pm in the creation room! 1 pm in creation room!

Sign up at the front desk! Sign the front

Enjoy a sweet treat and hang out with some local policemen.

Oct. 4 at 9 am in the dining room.

LELAND

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

We love our Participants!

121 Town Hall Drive NE

Leland, NC 28451

910-754-7701

Help needed for Coups for Troops!

Dedicated volunteers from The Brunswick Center at Leland clip and ship coupons on a regular basis. They seek your help to collect coupons.

(Even if they are 3 months expired! Sheets of coupons happily accepted!). Coupons can be dropped-off at the Leland Senior Center. There is a special box in the Game Room. Thank you for your support!

All Veterans are to report to the dining room at 0830 on Thursday, November 9th for a Veteran’s Day Celebration & Breakfast! Sign up is required.

The Leland Pet Show

Presented by Caroline

We are having a Best in Show pet contest! If you wish to enter, please bring a picture of your pet to the front desk. Pictures will be collected 10/30-11/13. Voting will take place 11/14-11/21 and the winner will be revealed Wednesday, 11/22 at lunch. The winner will receive a prize!

Don’t forget to see Marilou if you need help with medications! She’s our MedicationAccess Specialist and is here to help.

Novembe Novembe Novembe Novembe

BSRI Helps Save $1.7 MIllion in Medicare Costs

The BSRI SHIIP program saved Medicare beneficiaries a whopping $1,732, 523 in 2022 and counseled over 1,050 seniors!

Cost savings are calculated in a calendar year and the totals are reported in the spring of the following year. These savings come from changing plans or pharmacies, or from assistance received from the Medication Assistance Program.

Make Changes During Open Enrollment

If you have Medicare, compare and evaluate your current plans and make necessary changes during the annual Open Enrollment Period which runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2023.

Medicare plans and prices change,

so it’s important to take advantage of the Open Enrollment Period. Any changes made will become effective Jan. 1, 2024.

BSRI has 12 SHIIP volunteer counselors who can assist you at the center of your choice. Counseling sessions are by appointment only and can be scheduled by calling 910-754-2300.

Help to Afford Medications

The Medication Assistance Program helps uninsured and underinsured residents of North Carolina afford their prescription medications and supplies. Those with insurance such as Medicare, in the “Donut Hole” may use the program to discount non-covered medications.

More than 300 programs offer medications at low or no cost, shipped to your home or physician’s office.

Some local foundations and organizations can help. There are discounted programs such as pharmacy discounts, websites, wholesale companies, and more! To learn more, call Medication Access Specialist Marilou Smith at 910-754-6559.

STATE POINT MEDIA PUZZLES ON PAGE

SHALLOTTE

Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 7 to 3; Thurs. 7 to 7

3620 Express Drive

Shallotte, NC 28470

910-754-2300 1002

9:30

10:00

9:30

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

The Coastal Buzz

SHALLOTTE

3620 Express Drive

Shallotte,

910-754-2300

SEPTEMBER 2023

15

20

22

23

OCTOBER 2023

19

NOVEMBER 2023

SHALLOTTE

3620 Express Drive

Shallotte, NC 28470

910-754-2300 1002

We are so GRATEFUL for our Meals on Wheels volunteers!

JanethasbeenaparticipantattheCenter atShallotteforayearandsheissuchajoy tohavearound!Togettoknowheralittle better,weaskedJanetwhatsheismost THANKFULforandhere’swhatshe shared:

“I’mmostgratefulformyGodandmy family.I’malsothankfulforoursenior centerandthestaffhere.IlovethatIgetto socializeduringlunchandeatwithallof mybuddies.Theprogramshereare amazingtoo,especiallytheWalkwith Easegroup.”

Meet front desk volunteer Janet Lamberth

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

—Helen Keller

SHALLOTTE

3620 Express Drive

910-754-2300 1002 Hours:

WALK WITH EASE PROGRAM

CENTER AT SHALLOTTE

MON, WED, & FRI AT 10 AM

MULBERRY PARK—SHALLOTTE

Walk with Ease is a program for people with arthritis, joint pain and stiffness, or other chronic conditions. It is an evidence-based program that teaches you to start walking safely and stick with it. It doesn't matter whether you already walk regularly, want to start walking again, or you are just getting started. Join us!

Shallotte, NC 28470

MEDICARE PRESENTATION

CENTER AT SHALLOTTE

OCTOBER 9 AT NOON

Led by Aging Resource Specialist/SHIIP Coordinator

René Tarquinio.

HEALTH FAIR!

BRUNSWICK WELLNESS COALITION/BSRI

CENTER AT SHALLOTTE

OCTOBER 12

FROM 9:30 TO 11:30A.M.

A variety of FREE health screenings will be available!

THANK YOU

GREAT JOB!

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE CLASS

CENTER AT SHALLOTTE

STARTNG MONDAY, SEPT.11, AT 10 AM

Join our amazing volunteer, Ginny, on Mondays to learn beginner ASL! American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, natural language that has the same linguistic properties as spoken languages, with grammar that differs from English. ASL is expressed by movements of the hands and face.

FALL 2023

Well done, Shallotte Participant

Elizabeth Scharlat!

Katie McRainey!

BSRI received a HUGE donation of Boost nutritional drinks and a check for $1,000 from the Brunswick County Association of Realtors (BCAR).

We are so grateful for your generosity!

Elizabeth was the 1st Place Winner Senior Games for Acrylic Art!

SOUTHPORT

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1

Southport, NC 28461

910-754-7109

9:30Hand,Knee&FootCanasta

10:00SilverSamurai

1st&3rdMondays,10:30:Triviaw/Louise

1st&3rdTuesdays,10:30:LelandLarks

2ndTuesdays,12:TechHelpTuesday

1st&3rdWednesdays,1-3:Hand&FootCards

2nd&4thThursdays,2:MentalHealthTalk

3rdThursdays,11:45:Meetw/CaseManager

Zumbacancelled:June2-23

4thThursdays,10:CaregiverSupportGroup

1stFridays(AtLunch):MonthlyBirthdayCelebration

1st&

9-12:Quilting

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

The Coastal Buzz

SOUTHPORT

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

Olive Kno&

A Friend to All

This watercolor won a Merit Award in a recent showing at Franklin Square.

Portrait painted by our very own Diane Sloan.

A Chance to learn from the Best!

Diane Sloan

Introduces Two New Class Offerings!

Portrait Drawing 2-Day Class

Thursday, September 21 @ 12:30-3:30

Friday, September 22 @ 9:30-12:30

$50 Fee

Drawing Techniques

Thursday, October 12th @ 12:30 - 3:30

Friday, October 13th @ 9:30-12:00

$50 Fee

Please sign up @ the front desk Limited space

1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1

Southport, NC 28461

910-754-7109

COMING SOON!

CPR American Red Cross Class

Marsha Ki er will be teaching use of the AED and the Hands-Only Method for CPR. Please sign up at the front desk.

Wednesday, September 6 @ 12:30

Vo ng and Legisla ve Event

Come meet Kathy Lawler, your Senior Tar Heel Legislature Representa0ve, and Robyn Beliveau with the Board of Elec0ons. You will be able to register to vote at this event!

Wednesday, September 13 @ 12:30 to 2:30

Medicare 101

Our wonderful SHIIP Medicare staff will be on site to guide you through the maze we call Medicare. Please sign up at the front desk as space is limited.

Thursday, October 5 @ 12:30 to 1:30

NC Social Security Public Affairs Virtual

Event

Lisa Wallace will be presen0ng a Virtual Zoom Mee0ng providing informa0on on updates to Social Security, including new earning limits for those s0ll working at full re0rement age. The link will be sent out in your email blast and we will be hos0ng a group viewing in the Center library.

Wednesday September 20 @ 10:00

Please remember there is always an updated schedule at the front desk.

SOUTHPORT

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

It’s Cra Bazaar Again!

Saturday, November 18

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Yes, it is indeed that me of year for our talented cra5ers to show and sell their unique, one-of-akind items for your Christmas gi5 buying!

We are going to repeat last year’s success, and for all of you new to us, there will be over 40 tables to choose from and a $6 hot dog lunch with all the fixings!

There are s ll a few tables le5 if you wish to par cipate as a vendor. Please see the front desk for details!

1513 N. Howe St., Ste. 1

Southport, NC 28461

910-754-7109

Huge Health Fair is Here!

The Brunswick County Wellness

Coali on has joined forces with BSRI to bring you a Health Fair

complete with the following:

• Balance Screenings

• Cholesterol Screenings

• Diabetes A1C Screenings

• Fall Preven on Educa on

• Blood Pressure Screenings

• Advance Direc ves-Care Planning

• Medica on Assistance

• Safe Driving

• Diabetes Educa on

• Heart Disease/BP Educa on

• Vaccina ons

• And much, much more….

Friday, September 22 Starts @ 10 a.m. ends @ noon

If you are not receiving a email blast with updates and announcements, please send a request to jkno1@bsrinc.org

Hours: Monday–Friday, 8–4

Safe Surfin’ ID Program

These two lovely ladies are Ruth A. Ashburner and Kay V. Nichols. They work with Safe Surfin’, an ID program that loads pictures, fingerprints, and other vital informa on on a flash drive for people to give to a family member. The informa on is then erased, never shared.

“It’s important to us to help provide updated, detailed informa on should a person go missing or wandering. We know how important it is to have fingerprints and pictures of someone to save me when loca ng a missing person. Time is of the essence.”

The ID program is here Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. We thank you!

Huge Thank You to Chuck Olson

for his inspiring presenta on showing that one is to never lose hope and to never give up. Please stop by the Center to see his poster in the lobby regarding the book he has wri en to give inspira on to others. All proceeds go to the Oxford Boys and Girls Home. We do hope he visits again soon!

FALL 2023

910-754-7109

We Thank our Li le Shell Fairy

who has le) beau fully designed shells In all kinds of places for us to discover.

part of our Center Family!

SUPPLY

1st MondayTalkwithTikila-10:30

2nd&4thMondayMovieMonday-1:00

3rdTuesdayBloodPressureCheck-10:00

4thTuesdayDayTrip(R$)

2nd&4thWednesdayHandDrumming-10:00

1st&3rd WednesdayOpenCrafting-12:30

2nd&4thWednesdayMake&TakeCraft w/EmmaLou-12:30

2ndThursday CaregiverSupportGroup-10:00

2ndFridayAgingResourceswithTikila-12:00

Last Friday(AtLunch):MonthlyBirthdayCelebration

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New

SUPPLY

Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 8 to 4; Wed. 8 to 7; Fri. 8 to 1

September 2023

4 MONDAY:LaborDay-CenterClosed

5 TUESDAY: OpenAdvisoryCommitteeMeeting10:00;BrunswickCountyBoardofElection-11:001:00

11 MONDY:CardMaking-1:00

12 TUESDAY:ChuckOlson-BasementtoRose GardenBookPresentation-12:30R$;PianoBasics1:00R$;PianoNextLevel-2:30R$

13 WEDNESDAY:ModelTrainInterest& InformationSession-1:00

14 THURSDAY:HiredHandBand-10:00;Center WellFallPreventionTalk/Tips/Assesement-12:30

15 FRIDAY: CenterClosedforStaffTraining

101 Stone Chimney Road

Supply, N.C. 28462

910-754-7604

19 TUESDAY:PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNextLevel2:30R$

20 WEDNESDAY:Swap&ShopDropoff-9:00-1:00; SocialSecurityUpdate,Information-10:00Z;Fall PreventionExercises-11:00

21 THURSDAY:Swap&Shop-9:00-11:30$

22 FRIDAY:C-BreezeBand-10:30;NationalSenior CenterMonthCelebration-10:00

26 TUESDAY:PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNextLevel2:30R$

28

THURSDAY: What’sforDinner?(LowPrep CookingDemo)w/JohnLaTour-12:30Z

29 FRIDAY:NightontheTownSeniorProm-4:00-7:00

October 2023

2 MONDAY:GettingReadyforMedicare-10:30

3 TUESDAY:AdvisoryCommitteeMeeting-10:00; PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNextLevel-2:30R$

10 TUESDAY::PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNext Level-2:30R$

12 THURSDAY:HiredHandsBand-10:00

17 TUESDAY:PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNextLevel -2:30R$

18

WEDNESDAY:BreastCancerAwareness Presentation-12:30

19 THURSDAY:CareFair-9:30-11:30

24 TUESDAY::PianoBasics-1:00R$;PianoNext Level-2:30R$;

26

THURSDAY: What’sforDinner?(LowPrep CookingDemo)w/JohnLaTour-12:30Z

27 FRIDAY:C-BreezeBand-10:30

31 TUESDAY: HalloweenParty-10:00;PianoBasics1:00R$;PianoNextLevel-2:30R$

November 2023

1 WEDNESDAY: DiabetesHealthTalkw/Center WellHomeHealth-12:30

6 MONDAY:MuffinswiththeMilitary-10:00; BrunswickCountyVeteranServices-10:30

7 TUESDAY: AdvisoryCommitteeMeeting-10:00

9 THURSDAY:HiredHandsBand-10:00;Holiday MeshWreath-12:30R$

10 FRIDAY:CenterClosedforObservanceof VeteransDay

13

MONDAY:CardMaking-1:00

17 FRIDAY:BirthdayCelebration-12:00

23 THURSDAY:ClosedforThanksgiving

24 FRIDAY:ClosedforThanksgiving

No Symbol = No Fee (Contributions always appreciated); $ = Fee Associated ; R = Requires Advanced Registration; N = New Offering/Time; Z = Class in person + Zoomed

FALL 2023

SUPPLY

Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 8 to 4; Wed. 8 to 7; Fri. 8 to 1

Fall Swap & Shop Fundraiser

Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023 from 9:00-1:00

Donate your new or gently worn, clean, fall & winter clothing (women & men), handbags, and shoes for others to enjoy. Recycle & enhance your wardrobe while sharing with friends. Only recently washed and clean items will be accepted. All items remaining will be donated for thri ing.

Clothing Drop Off Date:

Wednesday, Sept. 20 from 9:00- 2:00

Shopping bags provided -$1 per bag

Quilt Together

Haveexperiencequilting andwanttomeetotherswhoshare thatpassion?Jointogetheron MondaysstartingSept.11atnoon.

BYOQ

Calling All Model Train Enthusiasts!

Be a part of the building of The Supply Depot. If you have experience with or an interest in crea'ng a group for model train enthusiasts, please join us for an interest mee'ng on:

Wednesday, Sept. 13 @ 1 PM

101 Stone Chimney Road

Supply, NC 28462

910-754-7604

Come Celebrate with Us

Na/onal Senior Center Month!

Theme: Discover Us!

September’s Special Events:

9/05- Be an Informed Voter —Brunswick County Board of Elec/ons

9/06- Watercolor Pain/ng resumes

9/11- Iris Paper folding returns on Mondays

9/11- Card Makers

9/11- Quilt Together Group begins

9/12- Author -Chuck Olson– book discussion Basement to Rose Garden

9/12- Piano Lessons– beginner and advanced

9/14- Hired Hands Band

9/14- Fall Preven/on Talk & Assessment

9/20- Social Security Updates- Be Informed

9/20- Fall Preven/on Exercises

9/21- Swap & Shop—$1 per bag

9/22- C–Breeze Band & Celebra/on

9/28- What’s For Dinner? -Cooking Demo

9/29- Night on the Town Senior PromBuy your /ckets early!

Check our calendar for event /mes.

Discover Your: Friendships, Health, Purpose & Crea/vity!

Piano-Basics & Piano-Next Level

Lessons beginning on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023

Want to learn to play piano or improve your piano skills? We have the classes for you. Basic Piano lessons will be held Tuesdays at 1:00. If you are ready for the next level, lessons begin Tuesdays at 2:30. 8-session series is $60.

2023

SUPPLY

CARE FAIR

Save the Date

Thursday, October 19 from 9:30-11:30

Freehealthscreenings,information,referrals, educationandgiveaways. Wearepartneringwiththe BrunswickWellnessCoalitionand localhealthcareagenciesandproviders. Seethecenterformoredetails.

Getting Ready for Medicare?

Monday, October 2 @ 10:30AM

Learn what steps you need to know and things to do, prior to turning 65.

Halloween Party

Tuesday, October 31 @ 10:00AM

Refreshments & Prizes for best, & Most original Costume!

910-754-7604

Breast Cancer Awareness & Education

Wednesday, Oct. 18 @ 12:30PM

Educateyourselfandknowthesigns,symptoms andhowtogetthehelpthatyouneedtofight thisdisease.

DiabetesEducation &Discussion w/ CenterWell Home Health

Wednesday, Nov. 1 @ 12:30PM

NovemberisNationalDiabetesAwareness month.Knowthesigns,treatment,waysto avoiddiabetesandhowtoliveyourbestlife ifyouhaveit.

During this season of gra tude, the Supply Center sends out our hear elt thanks to those who have served our country, to our loyal volunteers, and to our colleagues and par cipants. We are grateful. Happy Thanksgiving!

Monday, Nov. 6 @ 10AM

Are you a veteran or are caring for a veteran?

Join us for muffins and learn what programs and services the VA can provide to veterans to assist with aging in place.

VIKKI AND NIKKI: Our Dynamic Duo for Info and Assistance

ByCaseyPoplaski AgingResourcesCoordinator

BSRI’s Coastal Carolina Active Living Centers are the go-to place for group meals, meals for the homebound, support for caregivers, health education, wellness activities, and more.

But one of the best resources we offer remains one of the least known. That hidden secret is the Information and Assistance program, headed up by BSRI’s Aging Resources Coordinator Vikki Hine, and Aging Resource Assistant Nikki Hanna.

Vikki and Nikki are here to help. By email or phone, the Information and Assistance team are available five days a week to answer almost any question about resources. And yes, they also offer assistance! They help with referrals, completing applications, and more. Together Vikki and Nikki respond to 635 requests each month.

We asked Nikki what a day is like for her and Vikki.

Buzz: What are some of the resources you tell people about on a given day?

Nikki: If someone calls in and is wondering if their Medicare coverage is the right one, I can get them scheduled for a meeting with one of our trained state insurance counselors. Sometimes I get calls from seniors afraid of losing their home, struggling to pay past-due rent, and I can direct them to agencies that offer emergency financial assistance. I provide people with lists of affordable housing options, lists of area food banks, lists of all the long-term care facilities. If it’s out there, then we probably know about it.

Buzz: What resource do you wish seniors in the community were more aware of?

Nikki: Us. I wish they knew about us. People can spend hours making calls and searching the internet for the

910-723-2300

answer to a question, when I could give them that answer in one quick call. And some of our seniors can’t navigate the internet to find the answers that they need. I wish they knew to just call us.

Buzz: Can you tell me about a call that sticks out as one that made you feel good about the service you provide?

Nikki: Any time we can help, it feels good. Last week, with fans provided to us through Fran’s Fans, I was able to provide two fans to a lady without air conditioning. She was so appreciative, and it was comforting to know that the fans would provide relief.

If you have a question for Vikki and Nikki, please reach out to them at 910-723-2300 or infoandassist@bsrinc.org.

The Answer Ladies: BSRI’s Aging Resources Coordinator Vikki Hine, left, and Aging Resources Assistant Nikki Hanna help seniors throughout Brunswick County. If you have a question or need help, reach out to them at

or infoandassist@bsrinc.org.

BRUNSWICK SENIOR RESOURCES, INC.

AGING RESOURCES PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

DISPOSABLE UNDERGARMENTS AND BOOST

FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT

FOOD PANTRIES

NEED ASSISTANCE?

Contact an Aging Resource Specialist closest to you:

Calabash Center

René Tarquinio, LBSW

Senior Aging Resource Specialist

(910) 754-6224 | rtarquinio@bsrinc.org

Shallotte Center

Laura Collins, BSW, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-4468 | lcollins@bsrinc.org

Southport Center

HEATERS AND FANS

HOME DELIVERED MEALS

IN-HOME AIDE PROGRAM

Casey Freed, BSW, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-4106 | cfreed@bsrinc.org

Supply Center

Tikila Morgan, BSW, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-8450 | tmorgan@bsrinc.org

Leland Center

INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE (SHIIP)

TELEPHONE REASSURANCE SUPPORT GROUPS

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

MEDICATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

TRANSPORTATION

Sandy Porcaro, MA, Aging Resource Specialist (910) 754-3658 | sporcaro@bsrinc.org

Medication Assistance Program

Marilou Smith | Leland Center (910) 754-6559 | msmith@bsrinc.org

DONATE TODAY

Your donation could save a life. Visit our website to give conveniently: bsrinc.org/donate/

• Supportfoodsecuritywith anannualgift

Ourprogramsandservicesarespecificallydesignedfor adults60yearsofageandolderinBrunswickCounty,except fortheFamilyCaregiverSupportProgram,Prescription AssistanceProgram,andSHIIP.

• Setupmonthlydonationsfor AgingResources

• Honoralovedonewithaone-timegift

• Sponsoraride