This week, Sept. 21, we will be featuring Rotarian classification talks from some of our newer members.

Next week, Sept. 28, will be our auction volunteer appreciation dinner. We invite all of those who helped us pull off our most successful auction yet, and celebrate their help in our big summer fundraiser endeavor.

Novel approach to diabetes prevention

LincolnHealth has partnered with the Boothbay Region YMCA and Central Lincoln County YMCA to initiate a new diabetes prevention program. Kelly Holbrook, director of wellness/rehab for LincolnHealth, shared statistics showing that the 29 million Americans diagnosed with diabetes are just the tip of the iceberg.  Another 86 million, or 37 percent of all adults, are in a condition of pre-diabetes.

Lisa Van Dyke, director of development for our local YMCA, explained how the two organizations have collaborated with a group-based program for diabetes prevention.

Based on learning lifestyle changes, and bolstered by group support, the new program is already showing statistical success. Participants who are referred by their health care providers sign up for a 1-year program with “attainable goals.” Individualized coaching is provided by non-medical leaders who are trained by the program. Two of the goals are to achieve  reduction in body seven percent weight over the course of the year, and to maintain a lifestyle that encourages at least 150 minutes per week of physical activity. Lisa shared that two groups started earlier this year have already exceeded these goals.

Kelly explained the various ways that LincolnHealth is encouraging those at risk for diabetes to avail themselves of the program. The cost of the year’s commitment is $429 but Lisa reinforced that there are means for financial assistance as needed. Medicare has shown interest in this program which is being instituted on a national level. There is hope that it will become the first prevention based program covered by Medicare. Both speakers encouraged Rotarians to spread the word about a program which will not only improve lives but will save healthcare dollars in the long run.

On a separate subject, guest Lonnie Hackett of Brunswick spoke passionately about the growth of Healthy Kids/Brighter Future, the school-based health care program which he initiated in Zambia. Two Rotary Global Grants have helped train a teacher health corps and moved the access point of children’s health services to where most are already — their schools. Harvard School of Public Health has helped to document the decreased illness, increased school attendance and improved school performance for the 30,000 children now reached by the program. Lonnie thanked our local Rotary club for contributing to the grants, and for contributing to his upcoming graduate education. Next week he embarks for Oxford University to pursue a master’s degree in international health and tropical medicine. We wish him well!

Club business

VP Rick Elder enjoyed his first ringing of the bell as he called us to order. In addition to our speakers, guests Chrissa Bates and Alex Mulholland from East Boothbay were welcomed. Winners of the 50/50 were Kelly from LincolnHealth, and guest Alex. It pays to visit Rotary!

Announcements were many: Debbie Graves clarified that Rotary did not hold a Hometown Heroes event as our region hosted the annual Firefighters Convention, a very successful event which everyone enjoyed. Steve Demeranville shared that 500 ShelterBox kits containing tarps, ropes, shovels and hammers are on their way to the Caribbean. Henry Wyatt announced the need for Auction pickups, his last as he turns over the reins to Debbie Graves and Laurie Zimmerli for Auction 2018. The barn is already starting to fill with goodies for next year. Tory Paxson solicited for costumed volunteers to help with the Railway Village’s Ghost Train Oct. 27-28. She also invited all to the Sept. 17 breakfast at the Congregational church, a benefit for Safe Passage. Rotary road races will take place in Bath on Oct. 7 and Portland Oct. 14 — a chance to raise funds for hurricane relief (and work on your pre-diabetes condition at the same time!).

Happy Dollars were given by many in support of all first responders, and for Billy Dodge serving as Grand Marshal in the Firefighters’ Parade. Ingrid Merrill is happy to be hosting 14 German exchange students. They were particularly moved by the 9/11 ceremonies at the school. And everyone was very happy for Tory sharing her personal news.