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Notes from the Chebeague Island Council

This summer has been exceptionally busy, and I could feel the collective sigh of relief with the arrival of the first day of fall. The Council was very pleased to have had a physician using the Wellness Center this summer, and many in the community found “convenient care”was exactly what they needed. Summer visitors, far from their primary care provider, said they were especially happy to find Dr. O’Donnell on the island. We are looking forward to his return next summer. So what is next? The Council is happy to announce that MaineHealth has offered to contract with the Council to provide nursing services starting in October. There will be a nurse available in the Wellness Center for blood draws, blood pressure checks, suture removal, health checks—and all the tasks that can be performed by a registered nurse! This service will be free, so don’t hesitate to stop in, no appointment needed. MaineHealth is excited to provide health care to the Chebeague community and is very open to expanding this service as needed. More hours and home visits are being considered. MaineHealth brings a wealth of resources to our community, and the Council is just beginning to explore the many health-related services that MaineHealth offers. Please stay tuned for the start date of this new service; we are aiming for mid October! In the meantime, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to learn more about this new program.

One of the highlights of the Council’s efforts this summer was the Drug Take Back Program. Way back last winter one of our board members brought this up as a need on the island. Working with the Sheriff’s Department, one Saturday morning in August, we collected 39.5 pounds of medication! That’s right, the Sheriff’s Department reported 39.5 pounds! This effort was coordinated with Long Island, which brought in 15.5 pounds. The Council received a very nice letter from the Sheriff’s Department, which felt this should become an annual event. Thank you to all who contributed and helped out. Winter is coming. The Council is offering free flu shots at the Hall Friday morning October 14 from 9:00 to 11:00. It is time to get the house ready for winter as well. Please call the Council if you have questions about finding help for winterization needs. And remember, if you are unable to pay for heating fuel please call Ester at 846-4178 for prompt, absolutely anonymous, assistance. Chedemption has had the busiest summer ever. Thank you to all the volunteers who keep this running so smoothly! Checks will be going out to all the participating nonprofits October 14. The Chebeague Island Council is working hard to support the efforts of everyone in the community to continue the traditions that make Chebeague the special place we all love. Thank you.

It’s Nothing to Sneeze About!

The Annual Flu Shot Clinic Sponsored by the Chebeague Island Council No Appointment Necessary! 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. October 14 At the Hall

COME TO THE ANNUAL HALLOWEEN PARTY AT THE HALL!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

For more information or to help out, please contact Polly (232-8382) or Meredith (318-8588)

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OCTOBER 2016 CHEBEAGUE ISLAND COUNCIL CALENDAR