Reader column: Cape independent bookstores; loans for seniors, free bike

2022-05-14 14:41:19 By : Mr. Joshua GU

Write your problem, sign your name, give your address, telephone number, and send to: Write to Know, Cape Cod Times, 319 Main St., Hyannis, MA 02601, or email wtk@capecodonline.com. Please note: We accept listings for giveaway items only, no items for sale. No telephone inquiries are accepted.

Dear Write to Know: I recently moved to the Lower Cape and would love to find out where the best bookstores are in my area. Also, how many indie bookstores are on Cape Cod? Thank you.

Dear C.M.: We suggest you start with Sea Howl Bookshop, 46 Main St., Orleans, for new and used books. The hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can check them out at www.seahowlbookshop.com. Another great bookstore is The Brewster Book Store, 2648 Main St., which specializes in books, games, puzzles, unique gifts, etc. In the off-season, hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During July and August, the store' hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit their website at www.brewsterbookstore.com. According to a recent Cape Cod Times article, there are23 independent bookstores on Cape Cod. Happy book hunting!

Dear Write to Know: My wife and I are looking to renovate our house and would like to know if there are low-interest loans for seniors. Thanks for your help.

Dear G.J.: Mass Housing offers loans for homeowners to refinance your mortgage, apply for a septic system repair loan or a home improvement loan. The interest rate on all HILP (Home Improvement Loan Program) loans is 5% with loan amounts ranging from $7,500 to $50,000 with loan terms of 15 years. Borrowers must meet income eligibility limits. The house must have been your primary residence for at least one year and potential borrowers must have good credit and stable income. For more information, visit www.masshousing.com or call 1-888-843-6432. You might also want to contact your local senior center for help. The Mashpee Senior Center can be reached at 508-539-1440.

Dear Write to Know: Many thanks for your advice in a recent issue of the Cape Cod Times. As soon as I can arrange my schedule, I shall follow it. You have nicely instructed me! Cheers.

Dear D.F.: We wish you the best of luck with your poetry. Thanks for writing in.

Dear Write to Know: I would love to find a recipe for a crustless quiche. Can you help? Thanks.

Dear B.C.: We found a delicious recipe at www.aprettylifeinthesuburbs.com. This crustless quiche calls for six eggs, one cup milk (or you can use ½ cup milk and ½ cup half-and-half cream), one cup cheese (grated cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, or mozzarella), 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese (optional), salt and pepper to taste. Optional additions include ham or crumbled cooked bacon, chopped broccoli, chopped tomatoes, sliced onions, chopped spinach or asparagus, or cooked cubed potato. Instructions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, cheese, and salt and pepper. Stir in any additional ingredients. Pour the egg mixture in a 9-inch pie pan and bake uncovered for 45 minutes — or until the center is set, and not jiggly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

Dear Write to Know: As-new exercise bike, treadmill, weights. Spring ready! To make arrangements for pickup, send a letter to P. Murphy, 99 Wing Blvd., W., East Sandwich, MA 02537.