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A Little Magazine by and for the Residents of Southport
Number 1, May 2010 |
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Welcome... |
... to the first issue of Southport Village Voices, an online magazine created by Southport residents for their neighbors, friends and families. We hope to share ideas, knowledge, personal experiences, and to be a venue for essays and creative writing.
SVV will not duplicate information already available to residents in official Southport newsletters. Continue to look to those publications for Village policies and regulations, as well as announcements of events.
You are encouraged to participate in SVV. If you have a story to tell, knowledge to share, art to contribute--just about anything you think your neighbors would like to read or see--we want to hear from you.
SVV will be distributed via the Internet,
so feel free to share it with family members and friends who may be interested. (Use the forwarding function at the end for this purpose.) We will provide a few sample printed copies in the Village Center for those without Internet access.
Our current goal is to publish an issue of SVV each season. If there is sufficient interest, we may become more ambitious. This is is a work in progress.
Your comments and suggestions are most welcome. Please send them to davidkapp@comcast.net or call
508-539-1224.
David Kapp, Editor
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 SOUTHPORT PROFILE
Woody Young, Sr.
by Ernie Ruber
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He is Sherwood Baldwin Young, Sr., born March 8, 1920 in Webster, Massachusetts. To us he is Woody, Sr., a resident of Leisure Green Drive.
(We need to sort him out from Woody, Jr., who is also active in Southport activities).
"My father was a weaver; we lived in various places, where the work was, and ended up in Pittsfield, Massachusetts," he says. "I have two sisters, 85 and 72, great sisters, always. During the depression, my father's mill closed and he lost his job and started falling into alcoholism. Things became hard for my mother to keep up with and, at age ten, I was sent to live with my grandparents in Putnam, Connecticut. It was all friendly, and my grandparents were just like parents to me."
Woody's grandfather was a veterinarian and also had a construction business, a sawmill, and was a judge at a racetrack in Narragansett, Rhode Island. This led Woody to a variety of jobs while still in school: at the racetrack, plumbing, roofing, "You name it," he says, "I never loafed a day in my life."
During the depression he had a paper route that paid a dollar a week. With his first week's pay he went to the bakery and spent the whole dollar, bringing home 20 loaves of bread. His mother was grateful but wondered what they would do with it all: "We gave some to the neighbors. My mother was a saint, a strawberry blonde, sometimes with a temper to match," he recalls. At 16 Woody worked at the racetrack as set-up man for the pari-mutual operation; there were no machines. He graduated from high school in Putnam, Massachusetts in 1938, and worked in construction repairing the damage caused by the great hurricane of September that year.
Woody joined the National Guard and also met his wife to be, Jeanne, in 1940. On their first date, he put his foot in his mouth by saying, "You kiss like this stone wall on which we are sitting." She walked off annoyed, but some time later agreed to go out with him again. He got into further trouble by going with two girls at the same time (one in another town) and bumped into both at the same time. He and Jeanne worked it out and married later that year.
The newly married couple moved to Pittsfield and rented an apartment. He worked in plastics at General Electric, where he developed a serious allergy and lost 50 pounds in a year. Transferred to the chemical control department, he was injured in an explosion of a small amount of ammonia he was testing for quality control; someone had heated instead of cooled the material, and the ammonia and some glass spattered into his face. Immediate washing and treatment at the GE hospital left him with no lasting damage. "That was unbelievable!" he exclaims.
The United States Army claimed Woody in 1943. His experience in veterinary work enabled him to trim some calluses for a sergeant who, grateful for the relief, helped him get a choice assignment: "chemical warfare, of course." Woody was sent to Alabama for training, "Hated it there!" He signed up for the Army Air Force and was accepted, but a day later was rejected, as the ranks were full. He attended Officers Training School in chemical warfare at the Edgewood Arsenal in Maryland and became a "90 day wonder, a second lieutenant." and then joined the engineers, where he was in charge of a logging group. He learned on the job, finally being assigned to a chemical battalion.
In 1945-1946 Woody was stationed in Kentucky, training officers returning from overseas. On one occasion, his whole battalion traveled to Chicago for one day, with all of their equipment, to participate in an Armed Forces Day parade. "Very wasteful," he comments. He got his discharge in August 1946 and, within a year, their only child, Woody, Jr., was born. Gasoline was in short supply in those days, and he ran out of gas on the way home from the hospital.
Woody got a job at New England Telephone, where he was to work until he retired. He had to serve a five-year apprenticeship with inadequate pay, but veterans' payments helped to make ends meet. Some phone lines still had "crank phones," he recalls. He worked 13 years outdoors, mainly on one-man jobs--hard, cold work. Eventually he was moved indoors and became a service center supervisor. He retired in 1982.
Woody's religious experience has been diverse. His grandparents didn't attend services but sent him to a Baptist church. In high school he went to a Congregational church and then, back with his parents, was baptized at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Jeanne was a Methodist; Woody joined that denomination but eventually returned to the Congregational community and still supports his old church. He has tried to be a good Christian, but the denomination has been whatever was practical. "I guess I got that from my grandparents," he says.
In Woody's youth, living in a rough neighborhood, the Boys and Girls Club of America was a haven. "Dues were 10 cents a year," he remembers. Later, he and a group of fellow employees from the telephone company helped to raise $152,000 to refurbish a building for a Boys Club. There, he served as secretary for 20 years and as a member of the Board of Directors until he retired and received a commendation for "Untiring Volunteer Service." More recently, he and Woody, Jr. were invited to attend the opening ceremony for a new building; the cost this time was $8 million. He is proud to say, "The Boys and Girls Club of America was a great thing in my life."
Woody's wife, Jeanne, died in 2001 after a five-year decline, involving heart and kidney problems along with macular degeneration. Toward the end she started dialysis but then rejected it, deciding that the torment was too much to accept. Family and friends tried to dissuade her but she stood fast. At 79, she died with her family around to comfort her.
Afterwards, Woody lived alone for two months, then was invited to live with Woody, Jr. and his wife Janis. "A great couple, I could not ask for a better son and daughter-in-law," he says.
Father and son used to go to annual telephone company golf outings on the Cape. Following one of those events, they came to see Southport. They were enthusiastic about moving in and told Janis, who said, "What do you mean? I haven't even seen it yet!" But she liked it, and they signed papers. There was a short delay when the place wasn't ready after they had sold their house and were prepared to move in, but eventually, in 2002, it happened. "I've enjoyed every minute that I've been here, it's a great community," Woody says.
In retirement, he claims, "I drink beer and watch TV." He laughs. "I do word puzzles, watch TV for an hour, read for a couple hours, and help out where I can. I love to play golf but don't call me an avid golfer, not even in my obituary. I wish I could do more volunteer work." Woody helps to run the weekly Men's Coffee Hour. "It practically runs itself," he says. "You should mention Cliff Petersen, and Norm Zarek and Harry Golding." Woody is also a fine baker, as many at Southport can attest. "The whole family cooks. Tyler (his grandson) can make his own meals," he says proudly.
Woody works tirelessly behind the scenes of every Southport event. In March 2010, in recognition of his extensive volunteer activities, the Village Sports Lounge was named in his honor. As a new sign there acknowledges, "We thank him for all he does for the Village Center and Social Committee programming."
"Not much interesting in my life, not really," Woody says. Really?
 Ernest Ruber and his wife of 55 years, Natalie, have lived at Southport since 2002. They have two children and one grandchild. Ernie retired from Northeastern University where he was Professor of Biology and Ecology. He has constructed an interpretive nature trail at Southport and has written many nature/science articles for the Southport newsletter and has also reported on pool tournaments, in which he usually plays. He interviewed Woody Young, Sr. in April 2010.
EDITOR'S NOTE: If you know of a good candidate for our next Southport Profile, please send your suggestion to davidkapp@comcast.net or call 539-1224. |
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 EXPLORATIONS
Walking the Walks of Cape Cod
by B Roy Roberts & Diane Goeldner
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We uprooted ourselves from Long Island in November 2009 and replanted our lives in Southport. Although we were apprehensive about the move away from family and friends, it didn't take us long to know that we had made the right decision. Our enjoyment of all things outdoors has been realized on Cape Cod, and we are loving it.
In 2006, the Cape Cod Commission's Geographic Information System published a list of the ponds on Cape Cod by town. Their data indicate that Mashpee has 56 of the 994 ponds on the Cape--56! So, we hit the trails and took on a personal challenge to see all the ponds on Cape Cod. We've been doing a lot of walking and have discovered that some of the most beautiful trail-to-pond/river walks are right here in Mashpee.
Our first foray into the woods was a hike in the Lowell Holly Reservation. (The parking area is on South Sandwich Road.) White triangular markers provide some help in following this trail, but in some areas the well-traveled paths will be your only indicators of the direction to follow to take in the beautiful views of Mashpee and Wakeby Ponds. Mashpee Pond is 95 feet deep at one point, making it the deepest pond on Cape Cod. Numerous stands of American holly, rhododendron, azalea, mountain laurel and other flowering trees and shrubs, make this trail a real treat in spring. Picnic tables and occasional benches provide a chance to relax and take it all in. Although the trail can be a bit "rooty," it is not difficult.
Mashpee River Woodlands Trail |
Mashpee Pond is the head of the Mashpee River--perhaps the most picturesque river in our town. The west side trail affords the best views of the river as it flows quietly south toward Poppenesset Bay. The trailhead is just off of Route 28 on Quinaquissett Avenue (0.1 mile on the right). You access the trail along the east side of the river directly from the parking area. To reach the west side trail, it is necessary to walk under the power lines and cross a small bridge. Look for the small blue Cape Cod Pathway signs to guide you along the west side trail. Benches along the trail are placed to offer spectacular views of the river. Take time to explore the side paths; they are worth the few extra steps. Tall pines canopy this trail, and the scent of pine and the feel of walking on a thick carpet of pine needles is a joy.
To the west of the Mashpee River and just off Route 28N at Martin Road are trails
Crowe to Crowe Loop, Dennis | leading to views of the Quashnet River--Waquoit Bay's largest source of fresh water. The river can also be accessed off Route 151, following the Mashpee Wildlife Refuge's unpaved path behind Mashpee High School. However, an easier way to see the Quashnet is to follow the path from Southport to Johns Pond, where a spillway into the Quashnet is located near the public access point to the pond, at the end of Back Road. A structure to facilitate the spring and fall herring run from the Quashnet is alongside the spillway, and watching the herring make their way up and into Johns Pond is a great experience. A path to the right of the spillway will take you along the river, through a marshy area and into an expanse of cranberry bogs. This path continues through the Quashnet Woodlands but can be difficult to follow. After walking along the bogs, it is best to retrace the path back to Johns Pond.
A sign at the intersection of Route 151 and Currier Road directs you to the Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary, where a kiosk at the entrance of this preserve provides maps and information. Just beyond the entrance, you will find a small shed that is home to the barn swallows that inhabit the sanctuary. This could well be one of the most beautiful spots on Cape Cod. Grassy Pond is not far from the entrance and, along with many unusual plants, you will also find a variety of frogs, turtles and salamanders. Herons, mallards, red-winged blackbirds and woodcocks can also be sighted here. The surrounding area is planted with hollies, rhododendron, mountain laurel, cedar, and some very unusual trees. All of your senses will be engaged as you take it all in.
Sandy Pond, Yarmouth | With approximately 30% of the land on Cape Cod protected as open space, there are many more trails in the Mashpee area and throughout the Cape. We have been fortunate to be introduced to quite a few of them through guided hikes with the Appalachian Mountain Club,www.amcsem.org. Going solo is fun and adventurous, but there is so much more to be learned from a guided hike.
Many town halls on the Cape, including Mashpee's, have free maps and information about scheduled, guided walks. The phone number for the Mashpee Conservation Committee's maps and walks is 539-1400 ext. 540. Come on out and walk the walks with us.
Roy Roberts is a native of Woonsocket, RI. Following a brief Navy hitch he joined Olivetti Corporation and held positions in technical support, marketing and sales. Leaving Olivetti after 20 years, he joined Sharp Electronic as director of copier marketing in the U.S. At Sharp, he also developed their national commercial sales distribution markets for fax and copier products.
Diane Goeldner grew up in East Williston, NY and is a graduate of Suffolk Community College in Brentwood, NY. She worked as an office manager for many years and later held positions in retail management. Roy's wife of 42 years passed away eight years ago, and Diane's husband of 35 years died seven years ago. They met three years ago via Match.com and, in November 2009, moved to Southport from Long Island, NY. Between them, they have six children and six grandchildren. They like to hike, cycle, kayak, travel and dine. Contact Roy at robroy12@comcast.net and Diane at dgoeldner@comcast.net. |
 TRAVEL Cruising: New Orleans to Boston by Karlyn Curran | |
Those who know me also know that traveling is my passion. I would like to share the highlights of my latest trip with you.
I flew to New Orleans for three days and then took a repositioning cruise from New Orleans to Boston. The Mashpee Travel Club in conjunction with the Barnstable and Yarmouth Travel Clubs sponsored the trip. There were more than 70 people in our group, including Southporters Ginny and Jack McIntyre, Bill and Betty Kelley, Joe and Ann Maloney and Marie Butler. We had a great time!
My roommate, Debbie (a friend from New Jersey), and I left on April 8, a day ahead of the group, so we could spend extra time in New Orleans. We happened to be there the weekend of the French Quarter Festival. Food sampling booths from famous New Orleans restaurants and music stages were set up in three locations, including Jackson Square, an elegant urban space considered to be the heart of the French Quarter--everything was within an easy walking distance. Party time!
Bourbon Street is over the top, even by New Orleans' standards, with its never-ending bars, strip joints, tacky souvenir shops and wall-to-wall people! Running parallel to it, one block over, is Royal Street,
A parade opened the annual French Quarter Festival in New Orleans.  |
the stylish yin to Bourbon Street's decadent yang. Royal is lined with high-end antique and jewelry shops, art galleries, and colorful flowers hanging from cast iron latticework balconies. Our favorite activities were watching the parade that opened the festival and hearing a New Orleans jazz band play in Preservation Hall.
On Sunday we boarded the Norwegian Spirit and departed for our 13-day cruise back to Boston, which included six days at sea and full day stops at five ports.
Costa Maya, Mexico was our first stop. Mayan culture remains strong on the Yucatan Peninsula, so Debbie and I took a tour into the jungle to see a Mayan village. Many villagers live in little more than shacks that lack electricity, growing fruit, vegetables and flowers in their gardens. They appear to be content with their simple lifestyle, but some are getting electricity and, with it, refrigerators, TV's, DVD's and even cell phones.
These conveniences create new problems. In addition to the cost of
Mayan children, Costa Maya, Mexico  |
purchasing these items and the monthly electricity and cell phone bills they generate, access to the outside world increases awareness of what they don't have. They fall into a familiar trap: expenses exceed income, desires exceed affordability, and unhappiness and dissatisfaction begin to set in.
The port of Santo Tomas De Castilla in Guatemala was an eye-opener. Guatemala is a third world country, and Santo Tomas is its most important port; many container ships arrive and depart regularly. The adjacent town, Puerto Barrios, is a mix of dirt roads, dusty outdoor clothing and food markets, and tin shacks, all fouled by the gasoline and diesel fumes from trucks coming from and going to the port. Crime is rampant. NCL cruise ships will no longer stop at Santo Tomas; our ship was the last one. However, one of our guides, who was born and raised there, is in his last year of college studying business. He was extremely personable and knowledgeable and spoke fluent English. He hopes to get a job in either New York or Guatemala City.
Besides taking a trolley tour of Puerto Barrios, we also took a ferry to
Garifuna show dancers in Puerto Barrios  |
Livingston, a small town near Belize. It was much safer (even though there was barbed wire atop many of the fences around houses) and had its own kind of charm. The townspeople are a mixture of Mayan, Ladino and Garifuna cultures and dialects, and they enjoy a higher standard of living. We took a walking tour of the town, saw a Garifuna "show dance," and did some shopping.
Our next two ports, Aruba and Curacao, autonomous islands in the Kingdom of the Netherlands, are relatively wealthy due, in large part, to the tourist trade. They are about 40 miles apart and less than 40 miles off the coast of Venezuela. Both have year round temperatures in the high 80s and are cooled by constant trade winds. Both have
Curacao's capital, Willemstad, is a bit of the Netherlands in the Carribean.  |
pastel painted buildings and beautiful beaches. I found the capital city of Curacao, Willemstad, to be a much more interesting town than Oranjestad, the capital city of Aruba. Someone told me that Curacao draws predominantly international tourists, and Aruba draws more Americans. I liked Aruba; I loved Curacao.
Our last stop was Hamilton, Bermuda. By now we were further north and had traded in our sweat-drenched shirts for sweaters casually draped over our shoulders. Bermuda, a British overseas territory, has an affluent economy powered by finance and tourism. Its per capita income is the highest in the world, at approximately $90,000 in 2007. The average cost of a house is over a million dollars.
Bermuda is beautiful and clean; its roads reminded me of what I like about Cape Cod's back roads--two lanes, winding and picturesque. The island speed limit is 20 miles per hour, and I wouldn't want to drive
Southporters on the cruise: (standing from left) Jack McIntyre, Bill Kelley, Joe Maloney, and Marie Butler, Betty Kelley, Ginny McIntyre, Ann Maloney, and Karlyn Curran.:  |
(on the "wrong" side of the road) any faster! Most houses are made of concrete, painted white, with heavy white limestone roofs. They won't go anywhere if a hurricane hits the island. After an island tour, our group stopped for lunch and a rum swizzle at the Swizzle Inn, a Bermuda landmark since 1932. The sign outside the inn says "Swizzle In - Swagger Out," but we restrained ourselves (sort of) and walked out with only a slight swagger! It was a fun, relaxing way to end an enjoyable and informative trip.
 Karlyn Curran moved to Southport from New Jersey a little over seven years ago. She has a daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren in Falmouth and two sons, a daughter-in-law and another grandchild near Hanover, NH. After her husband passed away and she retired from her teaching career, she moved from New Jersey to New England to be closer to her children. She loves Southport and Cape Cod. Even more than that, she loves her family and being a "hands-on" grandma. She caught the travel bug from her husband and this has resulted in a chronic condition. Contact her at kacurran@comcast.net.
EDITOR'S NOTE: If you have a travel experience that you would like to share, please send a note to davidkapp@comcast.net or call 549-1224. |
 TECHNOLOGY Electronic Communication
Personal Computer Choices
by Jonathan Leavitt | |
It all began in 1844 with the sending of this telegraph message in Morse code between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.: "What hath God wrought." New and improved methods for communicating followed slowly but inexorably, and have now reached a pace that few could have imagined in 1844.
*My grandparents grew up without telephones but viewed television before they died.
*My parents grew up without radio but knew of home computers within their lifetimes.
*I grew up without television but now use home computers and cell phones.
*My children grew up without home computers but now use cell phones that are computers, as well.
*My grandchildren are growing up with all of these communications media, sometimes combined in one small, hand-held device.
So how does all this affect us as senior citizens living at Southport? As noted in an April 6, 2010 Boston Globe article, "For elderly, wired world holds terror or delight." Today, we have a broad, and rapidly changing, range of options for conducting everyday activities--communicating with others, shopping, paying bills etc., options that were not available 10 years, or perhaps even yesterday. The unrelenting pace of change can be disorienting, and as a result, many of us over 70 view the digital age with sheer terror. The good news is that the next generation of seniors will not have to experience these wrenching changes; they will have been exposed to the "brave new world" of electronic communications at a younger age, and they will expect continual change.
With a view to shedding some light on the current state of personal computing, what follows below is an overview of the types of devices currently available. In future editions of Southport Village Voices, I will offer tips on choosing a personal computer, followed by suggestions for ways to use your computer to simplify and enrich your life. As much is as practical, I will use information from my personal experience and will present options that are available today.
Personal Computer Configurations:
The Choices
Desktop Usually consists of a tower (i.e., the computer) with a monitor (screen), keyboard, mouse and, optionally, a connected external storage unit for software backup. Not portable but usually the best performance value.
Laptop Largest of the portable units. Consists of a clamshell incorporating the computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse touch pad. (An external mouse can be connected if preferred.) Can run on batteries or AC power, and can connect to a wireless (Wi-Fi) signal for portable Internet access.
Notebook A physically smaller but not necessarily less powerful version of the laptop.
Hand-held Also known as a "smart" cell phone, this can serve as an "all in one" device. It often receives both cell phone network (3G) signals and also Wi-Fi signals. Can function as a computer and camera as well. Brands include BlackBerry, Droid, iPhone. Some models have a full touch screen for a keyboard.
Tablet Consists only of the monitor screen of a notebook computer. The touch screen serves as a keyboard with the electronics built into the case. The first (and only) example of this is the Apple iPad, which was introduced in April 2010. It has a 9.7" diagonal screen, is 0.5" thick and weighs 1.6 pounds or less. Can connect to Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi plus 3G, depending on the model. This is the future of communications but not the first choice for those just entering the computer world. It does not print and must operate wirelessly, since it cannot be hard wired to an Internet connection.
 Jonathan Leavitt is a retired electronic engineer and has been associated with Southport since 2003, full time since 2008 after he sold his house in Needham. He has three children and six grandchildren. His interests include bridge, cribbage, bocce and writing. He wrote "Cape Cod Cowboy," which he performed recently at the 2009 Southport Cabaret show. He is currently involved with the Mashpee Recycling Committee. Contact Jon at leavitt65@verizon.net. |
SOUTHPORT PROFILE
Gert McDonough
A Southport Pioneer
by Dick Fellenberg
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Gert and Michael Griffin raised their family in Medford, Massachusetts. The lady we know as Gert McDonough spent her first 12 years there with her sister and two brothers.
Gert describes her mother as a "Newfie,"as people from Newfoundland often call themselves, and her father as a deep-sea fisherman. Gert explains that she might have been named Laura if her father hadn't gotten home in time from a fishing trip to insist that she be named Gertrude, after her mother, as planned. She describes herself as "a normal little girl," enjoying the things kids did in those days, using their imaginations for images, prior to television and the Internet. Gert has fond memories of an aunt who lived down the street. "She was always sewing," and that's where Gert's interest in sewing began.
The Griffins moved to Malden when Gert was 12. In one of those coincidences that frame people's lives, a boy named Joe McDonough lived nearby. They didn't date until Gert was out of school, but "I think I always knew he was the one for me," she says. Gert and Joe married in 1952 and enjoyed 56 years together. Joe was busy building a career at New England Telephone, managing to include 26 years in the Army National Guard. Gert devoted all of her energies to their home and to their growing family. Weekends were always devoted to the family.
"We did everything together," she says. "The family always came first. No matter how busy he was, Joe would put everything else aside if he was needed for a family matter." Joseph, Nancy, Cheryl and Paul formed their family. John came along "as a surprise" nine years later. He had the undivided attention of the family, "We all cherished that baby," Gert told me. "All of our kids turned out great," she says--a tribute to both Joe and Gert for always putting family first. Now, as adults, all of their children still live in Massachusetts, two in Plymouth, two in Marshfield, and one in Pembroke.
Gert and Joe traveled widely once the kids were grown. Arizona, California, and Newfoundland were some of their destinations, along with winter trips to Florida and some cruises. Joe came home from work one day telling Gert he thought it was time for him to retire. Gert remembers telling him to "Do it; tell them tomorrow." He did, and retired a week later. Their children and many grandchildren occupied their time, especially on weekends and holidays.
Joe and Gert moved to Southport in 1998, "the third couple to move in," according to her. They were one of the "pioneers," a group of early Southport settlers who still get together annually. Joe was instrumental in organizing golf and billiards. Gert was, and still is, active in quilting. She also was active in billiards and remembers Joe buying her a "stick" for her personal use. She won the Sadie Hawkins championship in 2007.
Several years ago, Gert and Joe were sitting with Eileen and Jim Krowl at a Village Center function and discovered that they had common links to Newfoundland. Eileen is a "Newfie," just like Gert's mother's family. Eileen relates how Gert's grandmother helped raise Eileen's father. Audrey and Dick Wheeler have been good friends. They traveled together to Hilton Head and to Branson, Missouri on a Southport trip. Gert and Joe also visited the Wheelers in Florida a number of times. Audrey describes Gert as a "very outgoing person, always a pleasure to be with."
Harry and Louise Dietenhofer were also Southport Pioneers, as well as neighbors on Rolling Green Lane, moving in shortly after the McDonoughs. Louise remembers how Gert went out of her way to make them feel at home. "She was always willing to give someone a helping hand," she says. Louise describes Gert as a good friend: "If she's your friend, she's your friend for life."
Betty Kayes, who is involved with Gert in quilting, describes her as "always cheerful and upbeat." Gert has always taken care of the Quilters financial matters and has been supportive in all of the group's activities. This fall Gert and Betty will go on a field trip to Hyannis to attend a Rick Tims seminar. Rick, Betty tells me, is huge in the quilting world.
Having spent time with Gert, and with other Southporters to find out more about her, I know she is as American as apple pie. Family, friends and community are her focus now, as in the past. Next time you see her at the Village Center, or out in the neighborhood, stop and say hello. You'll enjoy visiting with her, just as I have.
 Dick Fellenberg moved to Southport in 2003. He organized and runs the Bionics program, coordinates the Helpers program, and is a volunteer broadcaster for the Audible Local Ledger, a radio station for blind/visually impaired people. He has two daughters, four grandchildren and two great grand children. Contact him at fmaspee@aol.com
EDITOR'S NOTE: If you know of a good candidate for our next Southport Profile, please send a note to davidkapp@comcast.net or call 539-1224. |
ODE TO SOUTHPORT
Jonathan Leavitt
October 24, 2009
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This is my ode to Southport
An active community on Cape
Where Doctors and Lawyers and Plumbers and Teachers
All find it a great escape
At Southport the word retire
Is whispered in low tones at best
Between Golf, Tennis and Bocce
Few find themselves at rest
And for those less physically active
There's Bridge, Poker and Gin
Plus watching others do things
Is also no longer a sin
But the best part about Southport
Is the great people you meet
As we continue our lives together
Our golden years all seem complete
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ARTS & CRAFTS
Southport Artists & Crafters
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The annual Pastabilities Dinner,
a fundraiser for the Southport Residents' Scholarship Fund
at Mashpee High School, took place on Saturday, May 8.
Local artists and crafters stepped in to help out
by creating items to be raffled off.
Pictured below are the creative Southporters
who contributed items to the raffle.
Mardell McDonald | Mardell McDonald uses a punch needle technique to create beautiful rugs in a variety of styles--Persian, Turkish, Chinese, geometric and floral. She donated the Persian Sarouk shown to the left to be raffled off during the Pastabilities dinner. The 44" x 30" rug required 45 skeins of wool and took approximately 165 hours to make. Mardell began her rug-making career in 1981, when she took up her craft as therapy to keep her hands pliable after injuring them in an accident. Now, as a master, certified rug maker, she enjoys teaching her skills to others; currently, she has seven students. She and her husband Joe moved to Southport in 2003 to be closer to their families in Massachusetts. Joe serves the residents of Southport as chair of the Transitions Committee. Mardell and Joe live on Dogleg Drive.
Teri Feldman took up the handicraft of knitting afghans about ten
Teri Feldman
 | years ago and has been giving them away to family members and friends ever since. She donated one of her latest creations to the Pastabilities Dinner raffle. The soft peach afghan is 60" by 70" and is guaranteed to keep one cozy on a chilly evening. An afghan of this size takes about three months to make. Teri and Marshall, her husband, a retired optometrist, moved to Southport in 2006, having originally moved from Randolph MA to Boca Raton before the Florida heat drove them north again. They are the doting grandparents of six grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Terri and Marshall live on Classic Circle.
The Southport Quilters | As they have done for the last six years, the Southport Quilters, led by Betty Kayes (standing, second from right), created the handsome quilt shown here to be raffled off for the benefit of the Southport Residents Scholarship Fund at Mashpee High School. The quilters' initial effort, in 2005, raised $500 for the scholarship fund; last year, their quilt earned $1,000 for the fund. Their 2010 quilt is 55" by 70", in green, red and burgundy.
The 15 women, mostly beginning quilters, who belong to the group meet every week (except in golf season) for the pleasure of one another's company, to create beautiful things, and to help others through their efforts. According to Betty, the rule that governs their conversation is: "No organ recitals! We are too busy to talk about aches and pains." She adds, "What I like most about quilting is the people. Everyone wants to be helpful." Watch for the Quilters annual Show & Tell exhibit on Tuesday, May 25, when you can admire their work, perhaps purchase something, and maybe even decide to become a quilter yourself! Betty Kayes lives on Longwood Road.
Judy Smith with Jan Young's painting
 | Janet Young moved to Southport from Mattapoisett and lived here for three years before she died in October 2009, at the age of 81. She was a watercolor artist and joined the Southport Artists Group, where she met and became good friends with Judy Smith, also a painter. Shortly before her death, Jan gave Judy a delicate watercolor landscape that she had painted. Judy donated the painting to the Pastabilities raffle to raise scholarship money for Mashpee High School students--but not before she made a copy of it for herself to remind her of her good friend. Judy and her sister Phyllis have lived on Bonwood Drive for seven years.
Steve Memishian |
Steve Memishian moved to Southport six years ago from South Natick. He was interested in art as a young man and after serving in World War II, he attended the School of Practical Art in Boston, supported by the GI Bill. His busy career as the manager of a life insurance agency in Boston left him little time to paint but now, inspired by the bays and ponds and rivers of Cape Cod, he paints regularly-except in golf season. You will find a body of water somewhere in almost all of Steve's paintings, one of which he donated to the Pastabilities raffle. At 89 Steve is a widower, but he stays in close touch with his son and daughter, his two grandsons and his granddaughter, all of whom live in Medway. Steve lives on Dogleg Drive.
Norine Piscatelli |
Norine Piscatelli moved from Boston to Cape Cod 19 years ago and became a Cape & Islands Tour Guide. The Cape was always a part of her life, but seeing it through the eyes of tourists who raved about its beauty, gave her a new appreciation for the place she lived. Never having painted before coming the Cape, Norine took art lessons with Natalie Mangahas in Hyannis and gained the skills that became the foundation of her original style. She donated one of her works to the Pastabilities raffle. Norine is a member of the Cape Cod Art Association and a former member of the Hyannis Garden Club, where her floral arrangements have won ribbons. She moved to Pebble beach Avenue in Southport four years ago. They are the proud parents of six children, who have presented them with 16 grandchildren, all of whom live in New England.
Joe and Judi Tinlin | Judi and Joe Tinlin moved to Southport from Atlanta, Georgia in 2007. Joe's job as an engineer had taken them from Boston to San Jose and elsewhere before he retired and they returned to Massachusetts. Their far-flung family includes a daughter and two grandchildren in Texas and a son in Seattle. Both Joe and Judi are creative--he's a painter and woodworker, and she weaves beautiful baskets and other objects. Joe began to paint before moving to Southport and describes himself as a "struggling artist and a struggling golfer." Both donated one of their works to the Pastabililties raffle. Joe's contribution was a unique Adirondack chair that he built and painted. He learned how to build the chair as part of the certification process required to qualify him to use the Village Center woodworking shop. Judi donated a handsome Nantucket basket. She learned her craft in Georgia and has been making baskets for eight years. She is still a member of the Georgia Basket Guild and continues to hone her skills by taking lessons with Lisa Bessetta in Sandwich. Joe and Judi live on Pacific Avenue. |
 FRESHWATER FISHING
A Primer to Get You Started
by Paul Butters | |
Well, spring is finally here. If you spent the winter on the Cape, as my wife and I did, that first 60 degree day makes you want to get out of the house and start some outdoor projects. But living at Southport makes most of those outdoor projects unnecessary--no leaves to rake, no lawn to fertilize, no grass to cut. All that time on your hands and energy to spare. If you like golf or want to learn how to play, there is opportunity right here in the village, or at the many nearby courses.
Not into golf? How about fishing? If you're an angler, you've probably already been re-spooling your line, oiling the reel, polishing the rod, and checking the eyes on the rod for wear so you'll be ready for that first day. Just as golf can be found on our doorstep, lots of places to fish are also nearby. Almost every town or village on the Cape has several freshwater ponds where you can drop your line.
John's Pond, for example, borders Southport property and has some of the best bass fishing on the Cape. If you have a boat or canoe, you can put it in the water at the state launch ramp. (Take Rt.151 to Ashumet St., turn right and follow to the end. Take another right and follow for one mile to John's Pond State Boat Ramp on the right.) I haven't fished John's Pond yet and don't know about access from the shore, but the next time I write I'll have more information about this pond.
If you haven't done any fishing but would like to get started, there
Spinning Reel | are a few things you need to purchase. The first is a license; it's free if you're 70 or older. Next, a rod and reel--there are two basic types of reels: a) spinning and b) bait casting. Both are relatively easy to use but the spinning reel is easier for beginners; the bait casting reel has a tendency to tangle until you gain more experience using it. Each type of reel requires a specific type of rod. When using a spinning reel, make sure
Bait Casting Reel | your reel is below the rod.
You don't have to spend a lot of money for the reel/rod unit; $30-$40 will get you started. You will also need hooks, lures, line, bobbers, etc. and a box to hold your equipment. K-Mart has a wide selection of rods, reels and gear at reasonable prices.
There are a few things to learn before your first trip...
 Tying hooks or lures onto your line
Before tightening your knot, moisten it with water.
This will keep the line tighter.
Setting the Bail |
Setting the bail and holding your line Open the bail and grab the line; hold it on the first crook of your index finger and raise the rod above your head.
Casting 1 | Casting your lineMove the rod quickly forward to about 10 degrees above level and let the line release from your finger about half way down. It will take repeated casts, but you'll get results very quickly with practice.
Casting 2 |
Casting 3 |
Gripping the fish to remove the hook |
Removing fish from the hook
After you land the fish, you should know the correct way to remove the hook. Pickerel and pike have sharp teeth. Don't put your thumb or fingers into their mouth; use pliers to remove the hook. A bass is different. You can reach into its mouth and, as soon as you do, it will stop moving, making it easy to remove the hook.
Fishing from the edge of a small pond or lake is an easy way to start your fishing career. When you 're ready to make your first trip, pick an area with plenty of open space near the water's edge so you can practice casting without getting your line tangled in surrounding trees. Hathaway's Pond off Phinney's Lane in Hyannis is a great place to begin. It's an especially good place for kids because the ground is level by the water's edge, and they won't fall in. Be aware that when you take children fishing, it's their day. Promise yourself to be patient as you untangle their lines-repeatedly.
And remember...Take what you bring (your stuff), and leave what you take (the fish). Don't forget your camera. You'll want pictures of the kids fishing, and you never know what other great picture opportunities you might find. Happy angling!
 Paul Butters, with his wife of 48 years, Barbara, moved to Southport in 2009; they have five children and eleven grandchildren. A graduate of the New England School of Art & Design, Paul opened a graphic design studio in Boston in 1970, which designed packaging and promotional materials for a variety of companies, including Gillette. He retired in 2003 and is now the marketing manager for Lewis and Weldon Custom Kitchens in Hyannis, where he designs and produces promotional material for the company. He and Barbara enjoy golf, fishing, boating and travel. Contact him at paul_lewisandweldon@yahoo.com.
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 GRANDCHILDREN
by Paul Butters | |
I was looking forward to Saturday because the forecast was for a warm sunny day. The yard needed attention, like it did every spring, and I had made plans to tackle at least three or four projects. I had my coffee on the deck, even though it was a little cool, so that I could check the yard to see what to tackle first.
The kitchen phone rang, and Barbara came out to tell me that Tim was calling for Grampy.
"Tim, what's up?"
"Grampy, it sure looks like a great day for fishing, and you haven't taken me for quite a while. Want to go?"
That ended my yard plans for that Saturday. There is something special about sharing a day of fishing with your grandchildren. I told Tim to be ready in about an hour. He had everything ready and waiting in the driveway when I arrived.
"Let's get going Tim. I think you'll catch some fish today, I can feel it," I told him as we loaded the car. Tim asked where we were fishing today and as usual my reply was, "Keep your eyes open and you'll see real soon."
When we pulled up to the fishing area, Tim said,
"Grampy, are we going to fish in this place? It doesn't look like there are any fish here."
"Just wait and see what happens, sometimes the places that don't look like there are any fish have the biggest fish," I assured him.
"I don't know Grampy; it sure doesn't look good to me."
"Get the rods and fishing box out of the back of the truck and let's try it out."
I told him that I had fished this small area many times and knew there were fish just waiting to be caught.
It wasn't long before Tim said,
"Grampy, I can't throw the line out as far as you and I don't think there are any fish right near the shore."
"Sometimes the largest bass are right near the edge looking for small bait to eat. Just throw the line out about ten feet and see what happens."
Tim discovers that there are big fish to be caught near the shore.  | Just two minutes later, Tim yelled,
"I think I'm stuck on something!"
I knew right away that he had a fish on the line. At that moment a big bass jumped out of the water, and Tim yelled,
"Grampy help!"
"You caught it, you have to land it."
"But I can't pull it in!"
I told him to take it easy and let the fish get a little tired. Keep the line tight so the fish can't jump and shake the hook out of its mouth. Tim held on for all his might and slowly started to make headway getting the fish to the shore.
When he saw the size of the fish, he said,
"Grampy, you have to help me now."
We had used a light weight line, and I knew it would break if Tim tried to lift the fish out of the water, so I went over to give him a hand. I reached down, grabbed the fish by the lip and pulled it out of the water. Tim couldn't believe it.
"Grampy, you were right. You don't have to throw the line out very far to catch big fish."
The bass Tim caught that day was one of the largest I'd ever seen taken out of that small pond, and I gave him a high five for his big catch. As soon as we took pictures, we put the fish back in the water. I told Tim that perhaps it would grow even bigger and he could come back and catch it again someday.
From that day on, Tim was hooked on fishing, and I was hooked on fishing with my grandchildren. That fishing trip was a few years ago, and this year Tim is heading off for his first year of college at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy.
My other grandchildren enjoy fishing, too.
Even if they don't catch anything as big as Tim's fish.
Kate and Mike |
Charlie |
Libby and Mike |
EDITOR'S NOTE: If you would like to share a special story about your grandchild, or a favorite picture, please send a note to davidkapp@comcast.net or call 539-1224. We'll try to include as many stories and pictures as possible. |
 DINING OUT
Some Cape Cod Favorites
by the Southport Phantoms
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Everyone has favorite restaurants. Here's some food for thought on restaurants we have visited. Our favorites differ, depending on the season.
During the summer months, we especially like Baxter's Boat House, on the water in Hyannis harbor. If you're fast, you can snag a captain's chair and small table on the deck. If you want a laugh, watch the boat, Captains, pull up and try to dock, especially when it's windy and the current is moving fast. Baxter's food isn't the greatest, but the piano music, starting at 4:00 o'clock on weekends, makes it enjoyable. Everyone who takes part in the Figawi Race, which takes place this year on May 29th, comes back to Baxter's to talk about the experience.
Tugboats restaurant, at the Hyannis Yacht Club, has better food and a larger selection than Baxter's, but the lines are out the door on most summer weekends. It's difficult to get in without waiting for an hour. You can wait outside at patio tables with the kids or, if you're going without the kids or grand kids, you can skip the line and go to the upstairs bar. Often, you can get a seat at the bar or a small table and enjoy a full meal there. The view overlooks Hyannis harbor and you can observe the ferry coming and going. Tugboats' Mussels Marinara is the best on Cape Cod, and the bartenders are very attentive.
The Road House Cafe in Hyannis has terrific food, featuring a large selection of American standards and genuine Italian dishes. If you like piano music, you can get a seat by the piano and make as many requests as you like. Seats at the piano are in demand, so arrive about 7:00 o'clock. Headliners like Tony Bennett, who appear at the Cape Cod Melody Tent, often come in after their show.
If you're looking for "Cheap Eats" you should definitely visit Dino's Sports Bar in Mashpee--just a half mile from Southport. Take a
right onto Route 151 and you'll find it on the right hand side of the road. The thin crust pizza is as good as you would get in Italy (well, almost), and the salads are great.
Sopranos restaurant, featuring Italian dishes and an extensive wine list, is located in the Deer Crossing Shopping Center on Route 28 North, less than a mile from Mashpee Commons. You will be entertained by recorded music from the "Rat Pack." We rate this restaurant about seven on a scale of one to ten, with one being best and ten the worst. Every time we've been there and had to wait at the bar for our table, the bartenders have been pre-occupied or complaining about something. A "hello" and a smile would be appreciated. Amaris Bar & Ristorante, on Route 6A in East Sandwich is 100% better, and their Veal Parmesan is fantastic.
The atmosphere at Wicked Pizza in the South Cape Shopping Mall is terrific. You can always get a stool at the bar and order a full meal. If you're taking the grand children, they will like watching their favorite show on the TV that is found in every booth. The pizza is good, as is the thick, juicy hamburger served on a sweet potato roll, (although we prefer the alternative, brioche bread). A great hamburger!
We've visited Asia, a Chinese/Japanese restaurant in Mashpee Commons, a few times. The first time, we ordered a chicken dish and the meat was so tough we couldn't cut it with a saw. The fried shrimp is served with too much batter and it's hard to find the shrimp. The best food that has come out of the kitchen for us are the extra large chicken wings. The sushi bar seems to be very popular and is always busy. Catching tuna about 30 miles off the Cape is an experience that I have enjoyed, but one of us does not eat raw fish.
During the winter months, one of our favorites is the Olive Garden restaurant on Route 132 in Hyannis. You get all the salad and breadsticks you want, and each month they introduce one or two specials that are always worth trying. We've never had a bad meal there. The restaurant is busy all year long, so they must be doing something right.
And before we forget, don't overlook the 99 restaurants. There's one nearby on Great Neck Road. They feature prime rib Thursday
through Saturday; it's as good as anywhere and the price is right.
How about just going out for ice cream? Cape Cod Creamery, on Route 28 in South Yarmouth, is one of the best places for homemade ice cream on the Cape. Look for the blue and yellow chairs out front on the deck.
Just our opinion,
The Southport Phantoms
EDITOR'S NOTE: If you would like to recommend a favorite dining place for inclusion in the next SVV, send your comments to davidkapp@comcast.net. |
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GARDENING
New Planting Opportunities Proposed
by Deb Weber (text) & Art DeBonville (images)
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If proposed changes to the Southport policies on homeowner plantings are approved at the May 20 Advisory Board meeting, Southport residents will have new opportunities to include flowering plants in designated areas in front of their homes. The annuals and perennials pictured and described below are proposed for planting. For details, please see the Landscape Advisory Board document, "Plantings by Owners."
 SPRING BULBS Daffodil, tulip, crocus, hyacinth (shown)
Average Size Depends on variety
Light Requirement Sun or light shade
When to Plant Fall Perennial
 BEGONIA Begonia
Average Size 6"-18" h, 6"-18" w
Light Requirement Light shade When to Plant Spring Annual
 DAYLILY Hemerocallis
Average Size Choose varieties up to 12" h x 12" w, such as Stella d'Oro
Light Requirement Sun or light shade
When to Plant Early fall or early spring Perennial
 GERANIUM Pelargonium
Average Size 18"-24" h, 18"-24" w
Light Requirement Sun
When to Plant Spring Annual
IMPATIENS Impatiens wallerana
Average Size 6"-18" h, 10"-24" w
Light Requirement Light shade or shade
When to Plant Spring Annual
 PETUNIA Petunia x hybrida
Average Size Depends on variety
Light Requirement Sun
When to Plant Spring Annual
 NEW GUINEA IMPATIENS Impatiens "New Guinea"
Average Size 12"-24" h, 12"-24" w
Light Requirement Sun or light shade
When to Plant Spring Annual (not drought tolerant)
 Since moving to Southport in 2005, Deb Weber has served on the Landscape Advisory Board, the Health and Wellness Committee, and the 2008 Recycling Campaign. Deb worked for 26 years in Rockville, MD, in the information management field as a lexicographer and project manager for Aspen Systems/Lockheed Martin. As lexicographer, she developed controlled vocabularies (information retrieval thesauri and taxonomies) for commercial and government clients, and managed a variety of health-related contracts for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. She has a daughter, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren.
Art DeBonville joined GE in 1961 as a Toolmaker and gravitated to Manufacturing Engineering. He then began a sales career in the machine tool industry for the next 30+ years. He and his wife purchased a home on the Cape in 1985 and moved here permanently in 1986. They moved to Southport last November. His hobbies include woodworking, golf and photography. Contact Art at art_d@verizon.net.
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 COMMENTARY
Thoughts from Life's Adventures
to Nowhere
by Joe Marino | |
There are very few "Profound Statements" that constantly stick in one's thoughts, and that can be applied as we live out our existences in a world based on "Profound Statements."
Let's think about a few such statements that relate to religion, people, or just plain life situations. Religious sayings are fun. Examples: "It is better to give than to receive." Well, I don't know about that one. I would be exceptional if I didn't feel bad about giving all and not receiving any. People are always repeating these Biblical wonderments--"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." "It is just to reap if you're the one reaping." Oops! I'm being facetious; I just made that one up.
One that has always made me feel good and is, the more that one thinks about it, likely to carry the most "profoundness":
"From the fire's ashes, the best of all of us grows in the light of the future." (Anonymous) Metaphorically speaking, from every disaster, either natural or man-made, a new beginning surfaces, as does new growth after a raging forest fire. I have seen many ashes from many fires that demonstrate the truth of this statement over and over again.
Some people believe that when we leave this world we are transported to another place and another life. Some even seek to leave this life early in the belief that they can do better in the next one. Then there are those who are dealt the hand of sickness and the prospect of not completing the work set before them in this life. And lastly, there are the brave few who defy the odds and cope with whatever is thrown at them; these are the people who get to fulfill their destiny.
It is at this special time of year that my thoughts turn to these intrepid and unique individuals, who somehow can turn the worst that life has to burn us with and make it work to improve circumstances. They are the arms that coddle us when we need coddling, who aid us when we are sick, and who advise us when they can. They are there to sweep away the ashes from life's fires. And when needed, they are there when one of their own leaves this place we call earth. They are the backbone and the strength of every family.
Have you guessed who I'm talking about? You're right if you said "Mother"! What would spring be without "Mother's Day"? What other reason would Mother Nature have for the beautiful blossoms she places on the landscape, warming the weather so that springtime buds flower in time for the May celebration of motherhood? I have always thought that the warm rain produced by a springtime shower could be the many tears that all the mothers have shed either in joy or sadness for the loved ones under their care.
Here's a "Profound Statement": Happy Mother's Day!!!
For now, be well and may your God bless you. --Joe
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Joe Marino. Born in Boston, raised in Milton-the adopted son of Joseph and Rose (Grasso) Marino. Had my first business at 22-Hell of a mechanic-lousy business man-10 year span of working for others, but always felt that I should try again. Second time met with success. Married for 47 years to Carmela-alias Carmen, or to her family MA! Proud father of four sons--a foster son and foster daughter, two girls, eleven and ten, that stayed with us a lot after their dad died. There were other kids that had bumps in their lives that stayed with us on occasion, one even graduated high school while with us. Have always loved sports-horses-the ocean-fishing. You name it I've tried it. Retirement is not one of my stronger adjustments-wish I had taken my wife's advice about seeking out adoption records sooner. Have been fortunate to find family members and add them to my life. Love my involvement in Kiwanis-allows me to do things for and with youth--the secret to staying young in spirit if not in body.
Contact Joe at bowlin2@verizon.net. |
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Vika
 | David and Billie Kapp moved from Connecticut to Southport in the fall of 2009. David retired from a career as a university library administrator, after working in the libraries at Brandeis, Harvard and the University of Connecticut. He was a building consultant for the planning of a number of major university libraries and was, for 24 years,
the editor of Connecticut Libraries, the monthly publication of the Connecticut Library Association. Billie enjoyed a career as an educator and social sciences consultant. Their son and daughter live in Hawaii, and they have one grandson, a six-year old Samoan boy named: David Tavita Esera Tuaolo Kapp, aka "Vika."
Missing the editorial work that he performed throughout his career, David suggested to Sue Aitkin that Southport residents might enjoy creating and reading an online magazine about the people and place where we live. She gave the idea her enthusiastic support, and other residents came on board to help. My thanks to all of them for helping to launch this new venture. Special thanks to Paul Butters and Art DeBonville for their help with the photos, and to Sue Fitzpatrick for computer assistance. We all hope that you enjoy Southport Village Voices and that you will contribute to it. |
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