In every season of the year, Cape Cod is spectacular. Visitors with a wide variety of interests flock here. We have written about all the special features of the Cape in summer and fall, (go to our search engine if you need to refresh your memories), and antiquing in Sandwich. We have shared our recipes with you for Cape Cod Sweet and Sour Meatballs, Scallop and Linguica Chowder and how we top all our fish dishes with Ritz cracker stuffing.
To those of you, like me, who share a love for the environment and the creatures within, a yearly phenomenon comes to the Cape. I am a volunteer at the Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. When you come to the Cape please come in for a visit. We are closed on Monday’s in the winter, but are otherwise open. Every year, from late October through mid December, the Sanctuary rescues cold stunned sea turtles.
A cold stunned turtle occurs when the air and offshore water temperatures fall into the 40s. As the climate changes, and we in the Northeast are looking forward to winter, the cold blooded reptiles traveling to their warmer water winter homes in Mexico, the Caribbean, Brazil and other toasty climes, are challenged by the falling temperatures.
If you remember the configuration of the Cape, our land mass forms a hook jutting out into the ocean. When the wind blows, gusting to around 40mph, the turtles become cold stunned and are blown onto the beaches of Cape Cod Bay.
As the temperatures fall and the winds increase, the heart rate and temperatures of the turtles fall. They become immobile and float on top of the water totally unable to navigate anywhere.
The Sanctuary has a dedicated group of volunteers who patrol the bay area beaches following specific directions when spotting one of these poor beings. I myself have patrolled the beaches of the upper Cape hoping to find a turtle to rescue. Most of the strandings occur in the area from Brewster to Provincetown. Very few are found in the upper Cape area where I live.
When a volunteer finds a stranded turtle, they are instructed to move the turtle above the wrack line (high tide line) and cover it with seaweed to protect it from the wind. They call the Cape Cod Sea Turtle Stranding Network who pick up the turtle and bring it back to the Sanctuary to nurse back to health if possible. Many of the turtles are dead, but some who appear to be dead miraculously revive in a day or two.
Dead or alive, they are transported to the New England Aquarium by a volunteer group who brave the traffic of Boston to transport the turtles for further treatment or study. If successfully rehabilitated, they are placed back into the ocean.
This year most of the stranded turtles have been dead. All seven species of sea turtles are endangered. Typically, on the Cape, most of the turtles we find are Kemp’s Ridley, the most endangered sea turtles. We also find Loggerheads, Green turtles, and an occasional hybrid. Top photo is a Loggerhead waiting for possible revival. Bottom photo is of a dead Kemp’s Ridley.
If you are visiting the Cape, come to the Sanctuary, take a walk, see our exhibits , visit our gift shop and ask if their are any rescued sea turtles that you can view . The work done by the Sanctuary and the New England Aquarium and other places along the coast is invaluable to boost the numbers of survivors insuring our sea turtles will be in the ocean swimming freely for years.
Many of our readers have written about their favorite cookware items from Le Creuset. As you may have guessed from many of our recipes, Le Creuset is also a favorite of our food staff. Le Creuset has sent us a list of some of the newest products which are not yet listed in their catalogue. You are some of the first to see this preview.
New Stoneware for 2009
Honey Pot (PG1015-10)
Honey is making a comeback! Honey is used as a healthy substitute for sugar, and there are over 300 varieties of honey in the US today. When honey is stored properly is has a shelf life of 2+ years, but the lifespan is shortened when it is exposed to light. Le Creuset’s Honey Pot has tightly fitting lid and looks great on any countertop. Features and benefits:
Made from the same high quality stoneware as all Le Creuset products
Includes our popular Silicone Honey Dipper (a $9 value)
Dishwasher and Microwave safe
Does not absorb odors or flavors
Colors: Dijon and White
Size: 16 ounces
Suggested Retail Price: $25
Sangria Pitcher (PG1090-10)
Le Creuset’s new Sangria Pitcher brings the party to any table. Sangria is a Spanish beverage made with Bordeaux wine, brandy and fruit that was introduced to the US at the 1964 Worlds fair. The popularity of this festive drink continues to grow. Features and benefits:
Stoneware will not stain or absorb odors even with wine or acidic fruits
Large oversized spout for easy pouring with large pieces of fruit or ice
Oversized strengthened handle for easy grip
Size: 3 liquid quarts
Colors: Caribbean, Cobalt, Cherry, Dijon, and Kiwi
Available: April 2009
Suggested Retail Price: $50 New Bakeware for 2009
Au Gratin Dish (PG0400-24)
Le Creuset expands its widely popular Stoneware baking line with the classic Oval Au Gratin shape. The wide, shallow shape of these pieces exposes the maximum surface area of the food to the heat source, whether it is all around heat in the oven or under the broiler. The Au Gratin dish can be used in the microwave and it is excellent for marinating, and they also make elegant serving dishes. Features and benefits:
Virtually non stick, enameled surface makes serving and cleaning easy and quick
Le Creuset’s stoneware can be safely cut on with a knife
Dishwasher and microwave safe
Its high temperature firing and enameled glaze does not absorb odors or flavors.
Suggested Retail Price:$25
Le Creuset expands its widely popular Stoneware baking line with fun new shapes and sizes.Whether baking a flan, quiche, pie, appetizer, entrée, or dessert Le Creuset’s new Pie dish and Petite Pie Dish are perfect for any occasion.Features and benefits:
Virtually non stick, enameled surface makes serving and cleaning easy and quick
Le Creuset’s stoneware can be safely cut on with a knife
Dishwasher and microwave safe
Its high temperature firing and enameled glaze does not absorb odors or flavors.
Stoneware is capable from going from fridge or freezer to oven and then table
Colors:White, Cobalt, Cherry, Kiwi
Available: April 2009
New Pie Dish (PG1850-26)
Size:10 inch
Suggested Retail Price:$30
Petite Pie Dish (PG1850-12)
Size:4.5 inch
Suggested Retail Price:$12
Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware
Le Creuset, known worldwide for its durable and colorful cast iron cookware, has announced the introduction of a premium line of tri-ply stainless steel cookware. Engineered for superior performance in the kitchen, Le Creuset Stainless Steel utilizes a tri-ply construction with a pure aluminum core from base to rim.
New 9 piece Set (SS09109)
• Set includes: 7 ½ qt Stockpot, 2 qt Saucepan with lid, 4 qt Saucepan with lid, 3 qt Sauté Pan with lid, 9 ½ inch Fry Pan
• Each piece features a precision pour rim to prevent spills and drips
• Curved, ergonomic handles designed to fit easily into the oven
• Heavy weighted lids prevents moisture loss and results in moist and tender foods
• Large, oversized assist handles provide a sure grip and conveniently act as a lid rest
• Capacities are marked on the inside of all casseroles & saucepans, eliminating the need for measuring cups
• Brushed stainless steel exterior helps prevent fingerprints, while polished interior allows for easy viewing of food
• Magnetized exterior makes it suitable for use on all heating sources, including induction
• Full aluminum core results in even all-around heating – no hotspots • Lifetime warranty (stainless)
• Dishwasher safe
• Suggested Retail Price: $500.00
• Available: September 2009 at Bloomingdales
New Roasting Pan (SS8500-35)
• Precision Pour lip on all sides
• Full Tri Ply throughout
• Branded large handles
• Size: 4 qt and 14 ½” x 10 ¾” x 2 ¾”
• Suggested Retail Price: $250.00
• Available: October 2009
Stoneware is capable from going from fridge or freezer to oven and then table
Colors: White, Cobalt, Cherry, Kiwi
Available: April 2009
Size: 1 quart
Suggested Retail Price: $2
New Fry Pan/Skillet for 2009
2.5 qt. Shallow Casserole/Braiser (HA8100-30)
Le Creuset products have always brought elegance and convenience to the table, and they continue to with this new shape. Casserole recipes have existed since the early 18th century; the French term en casserole means served in the vessel used for cooking. Thus, this new shape is a natural extension of the award winning Fry Pans/ Skillets line. Features and benefits:
Triple coated reinforced nonstick coating is dishwasher and metal utensil safe
The hollow, cast stainless steel handles will stay cool while cooking on the stovetop
Generously sized assist handle provides comfort and confidence when lifting
Both the interior and exterior of the pan is coated with nonstick; ideal for healthy cooking and easy cleanup
Fry Pan is oven safe to 500°F and the tempered glass lid is oven safe to 325°F
Designed with generously sized and fully riveted assist handles
10 year warranty
Manufactured by hot forging to ensure that fry pan will never warp
An induction compatible, magnetic (18/0) stainless steel disk base ensures performance on any
cook top
Designed in Europe
Suggested Retail Price: $160
Labor Day has come and gone. It is as if a bell has rung ending summer and welcoming the Fall season. For me this is the Cape at its most glorious. The weather is still beautiful with enough warm days to remind us of what has just passed and cool enough to remind us of what is yet to come. Bus loads of travelers from all over the country are here, including many senior groups here to take advantage of the lower hotel rates. Families arrive on the weekends kids toting homework to do at the pools.
There are so many terrific things to do at this time of the year. The Cape Cod Railway will let you ride the rails, eat gourmet food, and enjoy the scenery along Cape Cod Canal. At the Heritage Museum and Gardens you can view vintage cars, see memorabilia of the Cape Cod Baseball League, and view their magnificent grounds. Wonderful theatrical productions can be found throughout the Cape, The Producers, Macbeth, The What theater in Wellfleet offering productions by famous writers, David Mamet for example, and newcomers, The Tennessee Williams Theater Festival in Provincetown to name but a few.
You can visit The Cape Cod Winery and try their Beach Plum Chardonnay. Many of the restaurants have started to advertise coupons for their meals but still offer the same delicious plentiful fare.
Of course the wonderful trails are open at the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. Gone is the heat of summer. The wind off the Bay and cooler temperatures are exhilarating. Also a visit to th Salt Pond Center at the National Seashore is interesting, informative, and downright enjoyable. You must bring your bike. From Woods Hole to Provincetown, the Cape is known for its scenic bike paths.
You will be able to walk or sit on the beach of your choice throughout the Cape. Beach stickers are not required after Labor Day. Bring your chairs, kites, and refreshments and go to Old Silver Beach, Bass River Beach, Mayo Beach, South Cape Beach etc. All beautiful, clean and waiting for you.
In October a special phenomenon comes to the Cape lasting until about mid December.
EXHIBITION AT MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, BOSTON, UNLOCKS
THE SECRETS OF TOMB 10A: EGYPT 2000 BC
Four-thousand-year-old Painted „Bersha Coffin,‟ Largest Known Collection of Models, and Mummified Head of Egyptian Governor among Middle Kingdom Treasures on View
BOSTON, MA (September 8, 2009)—They survived two fires, the onslaught of robbers, and the effects of four thousand years underground. Now, these masterworks from an Egyptian tomb of the Middle Kingdom (2040–1640 BC) will be on view together for the first time in a special exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), beginning October 18, 2009. The Secrets of Tomb 10A: Egypt 2000 BC showcases funerary objects discovered in Deir el-Bersha, a necropolis in central Egypt, by the joint Harvard University-Museum of Fine Arts Expedition in 1915. Objects range from the famous ―Bersha coffin‖—a masterpiece of Egyptian painting—to the mummified head of one of the tomb’s two occupants. Also included are hundreds of items deemed necessary for a comfortable afterlife in ancient Egypt. This find represents the largest Middle Kingdom burial assemblage ever discovered and sheds light on the grand lifestyle enjoyed by local governor and priest Djehutynakht and his wife, Lady Djehutynakht. The conservation and reconstruction of many of the items—damaged by grave robbers in antiquity—have taken almost a century to complete. For the first time since they were placed in the tomb, the assemblage will be displayed in its entirety.
The exhibition, on view through May 16, 2010, in the MFA’s Gund Gallery, is supported by Bank of America. Major funding is provided by The Calderwood Charitable Foundation. Additional support for the exhibition is provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
The Secrets of Tomb 10A examines the mysteries surrounding the Djehutynakhts: their lifestyle, the fate of their possessions after they were buried, and whether the mummified head is male or female. It also offers an engaging introduction to evolving funerary practices in Egypt from the 11th through 13th dynasties and provides insights into daily life of the high officials of the time. Featured are more than 250 objects, many of which have never before been on view. These include four beautifully painted coffins, cult objects, vessels for food and drink, furniture, jewelry, walking sticks, and sealed beer jars (one of which will be opened and examined during the run of the exhibition). The exhibition also will showcase the largest known collection of wooden models from the Middle Kingdom representing, in miniature form, a range of activities and items that would have been found on the couple’s estate.
―This exploration of ancient Egypt provides a window into one of the most fascinating civilizations in history,‖ said Malcolm Rogers, Ann and Graham Gund Director of the MFA. ―The artistic and historical treasures found in Tomb 10A bring to life the world of 2000 BC—a time of glorious artistic achievements. By revealing what the Djehutynakhts considered most important for their journey to the afterlife, the exhibition offers a better understanding of the Middle Kingdom, the least known of Egypt’s major eras.‖
Objects throughout the gallery highlight the historical significance of the Middle Kingdom, a period when the relationship between the pharaoh and his provincial governors characterized the politics of the day. Other key themes of the exhibition include an exploration of the nature and meaning of the grave goods discovered in the Djehutynakhts’ tomb, the evolving interest in the Deir el-Bersha tombs over the course of almost two centuries, and a comparative look at other funerary practices of Dynasties 12 and 13 (1991–1642 BC). Also on view is a section devoted to the expedition that unearthed the treasures of Tomb 10A and more recent discoveries made at Deir el-Bersha.
Famous “Bersha Coffin”
The beautifully crafted cedar outer coffin of Governor Djehutynakht, an unparalleled masterpiece of Middle Kingdom painting resplendent with accomplished brushwork and brilliant colors,
figures prominently in The Secrets of Tomb 10A. Measuring 96 x 52 x 45 inches, it is
disassembled in the exhibition to show the exquisite painting on the inside of its panels, so placed for the governor’s exclusive viewing. Rich in detail and symbolism, many of the painted images
depict food, drink, clothing, weapons, and other provisions for the afterlife. There are many items of religious significance, including an intricately decorated false door through which Djehutynakht’s ka, or life force, could easily pass between the worlds of the living and the dead. The governor can be seen sitting in front of this door, inhaling incense offered by his son and surrounded by other objects useful for his new existence. Many of the goods found in the tomb replicate those depicted on the coffin. Above the scene are two rows of large, painted hieroglyphs consisting of a funerary prayer requesting offerings from the king and the god Osiris. Incised cursive hieroglyphs record the Coffin Texts, a collection of funerary rituals and spells that are laid out in vertical columns. Nearly 200 individual spells are included so that they may protect and guide Governor Djehutynakht in his journey to the afterlife. In its entirety, the coffin’s design, decoration, incised texts and prayers for the dead, as well as map through the underworld, work together to facilitate their occupant’s passage to the afterlife and sustain the ka for eternity.
Thanks to careful record keeping and conservation, the Museum is now able to reconstruct the original burial. Befitting their high status, the governor and his wife were both buried in decorated rectangular wooden coffins placed within larger coffins, all made of thick cedar of Lebanon boards. (Lady Djehutynakht had two outer coffins, but the outermost one was almost totally destroyed by robbers and left at the site by the expedition.) Only the wealthiest Egyptians of the period could afford such preparations. Coffins were the most costly items of tomb equipment and were considered vessels to transport the deceased to the afterlife. Mummified bodies were placed on their left side with the head facing the false door. In that way, through a pair of eyes painted on the inside of the coffin and in a corresponding place on its exterior, they could view their journey to the afterlife.
The Secrets of Tomb 10A also showcases Lady Djehutynakht’s decorated coffins, which, like her husband’s, were carved and painted inside, with ornamental hieroglyphs along the top, and false doors, offering lists, and Coffin Texts on the panels. However, these are less detailed and do not
contain the requisite map through the underworld. In addition to her coffins, Lady Djehutynakht’s jewelry is included in the exhibition as illustrated by the exquisite blue-green faience Broad collar (about 2040–1783 BC) and a gold bracelet.
―We are thrilled to present this material for the first time. It has been a privilege to study it now that our talented conservators have restored it to its original splendor. The consummate skill of the ancient artists is revealed for all to see and enjoy,‖ said Rita E. Freed, John F. Cogan, Jr. and Mary L. Cornille Chair of the MFA’s Department of Art of the Ancient World, who organized the exhibition with department curators Lawrence M. Berman, Norma Jean Calderwood Senior Curator of Ancient Egyptian, Nubian, and Near Eastern Art, and Denise M. Doxey, curator of Ancient Egyptian, Nubian, and Near Eastern Art.
Djehutynakht, whose name means ―(the god) Thoth is Strong,‖ is believed to have been a governor, or nomarch, of the district of Hermopolis in Middle Egypt who lived during the reign of one or more of three possible rulers of Dynasty 11 and 12: Mentuhotep III (2010–1998 BC), Mentuhotep IV (1998–1991 BC), or Amenemhat I (1991–1961 BC). He also held the titles of ―controller of the two thrones‖ and ―overseer of priests.‖ After the collapse of the Great Pyramid age of the Old Kingdom (around 2143–2100 BC), there was no central government in Egypt. This resulted in the formation of powerful provincial centers during the First Intermediate Period (about 2100–2040 BC). The country was reunified in the Middle Kingdom, but local governors still retained power. Because Hermopolis was at the juncture of the previously warring northern and southern Egyptian kingdoms, as a high official, Djehutynakht likely played a role in the politics of the region.
His tomb is located in Deir el-Bersha, named after the nearby modern village, about 186 miles south of Cairo on the east bank of the Nile, across from the ancient site of Hermopolis. Tomb 10A was discovered in 1915 by MFA registrar Hanford Lyman Story, a member of the Harvard University-Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition in Egypt (1915–1947) that is known primarily for unearthing thousands of objects at Giza and amassing the largest archaeological documentary archive of any expedition there. It was led by George Reisner, called the ―Father of American Egyptology,‖ a professor of Egyptology at Harvard who founded the expedition and later became curator of the Egyptology Department at the MFA. The material discovered at Deir el-Bersha was divided between the Boston expedition and the Egyptian government, with the entirety of the jumbled contents of Tomb 10A awarded to Boston. Because of World War I, objects were stored in Egypt for safekeeping, finally leaving for Boston in 1921. More drama followed. The cargo ship carrying them caught fire, and the crates were damaged by water. Luckily, this final assault on the contents of the Djehutynakhts’ tomb was minor.
Excavation and Scientific Research
Documentary photos in The Secrets of Tomb 10A chronicle the 1915 excavation of the necropolis at Deir el-Bersha, where archaeologists unearthed many burial shafts, largely devoid of significant finds. That changed when they blasted away massive boulders and discovered a shaft leading to Tomb 10A. The above-ground chapel of the tomb had been quarried, destroying information about the inhabitants. The shaft itself showed signs of fire and plunder, but team members continued to dig down 30 feet until they reached the bottom and found, amidst the debris, the entrance to a burial chamber. Inside, they discovered a chaotic scene with objects strewn throughout the small room by robbers in search of booty. Providing an eerie greeting for the 20th-century visitors was a linen-wrapped painted head perched on top of a coffin, appearing to observe the excavators. Propped up in the far corner was a limb-less, head-less torso. (Determining it to be of little value for the Museum, the excavators left it at the site.) Almost 95 years later, the mummy head will once again be visible in a small room in the exhibition, exactly the size of the original burial chamber.
Near the head in the same small chamber in the exhibition is a video reconstruction and supporting materials documenting the extensive scientific analyses conducted on the mummy head from 2005 on by neurologists and radiologists at Massachusetts General Hospital, who applied cutting-edge ultra-high resolution flat panel volume CT (computerized tomography) scanning technology, among other techniques. Improving upon earlier studies of 1984 in cooperation with Brigham and Women’s Hospital, this research has identified additional surgical procedures performed on the head during the embalming process. Also, thanks to new, highly advanced scans of the mummified head, the Cancer Research Institute of Heidelberg University made a 3-D plaster model of the skull without unwrapping it. While these new views of the head do not determine conclusively whether it is Governor Djehutynakht or his wife, Lady Djehutynakht, they shed considerable light on the mystery of why several facial bones were removed. It appears the brain—in addition to being removed through the nose, the traditional ancient Egyptian way that had not yet become common by the Djehutynakhts’ time—also was partially extracted through the base of the skull at the back of the head. The jaw was later separated from its adjacent musculature, possibly in keeping with the Opening of the Mouth ceremony, an important funerary ritual of ancient Egypt that restored the use of the mouth for the deceased to eat, drink, and breathe in the afterlife. Tests on DNA samples from the head are currently underway in the continued attempt to determine which of the Djehutynakhts resides at the MFA.
Models and Masterworks
Although the tomb robbers stole virtually everything made of gold or semi-precious stone, they left behind treasures of another kind—masterworks of Egyptian art. One of the most famous examples is the Procession of offering bearers (c. 2040–1926 BC), a wooden model about 26 inches long that was among the more than 100 found scattered throughout Tomb 10A. The delicacy of its carving and the detail of its painting make it the finest of its kind ever discovered in Egypt. The procession consists of a priest carrying a ceremonial wine jar and incense burner for use in the burial rites, followed by two women with offerings of food and drink, and a third bringing items for the governor’s personal care. The vignette represents all that was essential to sustain the ka of Djehutynakht in the afterlife. About three dozen other models represent daily activities on a grand estate, including farm work and individual shops for carpenters, weavers, brick-makers, bakers, and brewers. Egyptians believed these miniaturized workers would come to life and serve their owners in the afterlife, just as a nomarch’s personnel did during his time on earth. Models of tools and weapons were discovered as well.
Just as water-born transportation on the Nile was the primary means of journeying long distances in life, travel by boat was necessary for navigating the hereafter. The Djehutynakhts included in their tomb a flotilla of nearly 60 model boats outfitted for pleasure, defensive, utilitarian and funerary purposes. When archeologists made their discovery, they found that the boats, crews, and assorted parts were roughly strewn about the tomb. Thanks to the help of five conservators (including one from the Cairo Museum), who spent approximately 10,000 hours on the project, thousands of pieces were sorted, matched, and reattached to their corresponding models, most of which are now shown fully assembled in the exhibition for the first time in four millenia.
Middle Kingdom Sculpture
Complementing objects found in Tomb 10A are examples of Middle Kingdom sculpture, decorative arts, and funerary goods from other sites illustrating the grand lifestyle enjoyed by the privileged in the Middle Kingdom. These include sculptures of rulers and high officials of Djehutynakht’s time from the Museum’s own collection, such as The Statue of Lady Sennuwy (Dynasty 12, about 1971–1926 BC), one of the great masterpieces of the early 12th dynasty. This life-size granodiorite depiction of the wife of a powerful provincial governor, Djefaihapi of Asyut, was discovered by Reisner in Nubia (now present-day Sudan). Also featured is Osiride Statue of King Mentuhotep III, re-inscribed for King Merenptah (Dynasty 11, about 2010–1998 BC), a commanding sandstone representation of the king in the guise of Osiris.
Although Reisner hoped that excavations at Deir el-Bersha would continue after the 1915 discoveries, work was halted until the 1990s, when a joint survey was undertaken by the MFA, the University of Pennsylvania, and Leiden University in the Netherlands. Today, the project continues under the leadership of Professor Harco Willems of Katholieke University of Leuven, Belgium, and new finds are still being made.
To enhance the appreciation of The Secrets of Tomb 10A, a variety of special programs will be offered at the Museum, including lectures, courses, gallery talks, an artist demonstration, and family activities. In addition, the MFA’s website at mfa.org will include a fun interactive section about mummies, mysteries, and magic highlighting specific aspects of the exhibition and opportunities for further exploration. Sections of the website include: The Tomb—Learn about the unearthing of artifacts from 2000 BC, which includes excerpts from the 1915 excavation diaries. The Secrets—Dig deeper into ancient mysteries and get answers from the MFA’s panel of experts. The Mummy—Examine the results of tests performed on the mummified head as presented in a video featuring Massachusetts General Hospital doctors Paul Chapman and Rajiv Gupta. The Afterlife—Discover how ancient Egyptians viewed life and death in the Middle Kingdom and listen to a video of curator Lawrence Berman talking about mysterious spells used to protect the dead in the afterlife.
Just for Kids!—Try fun activities at home and in the gallery, listen to samples from the family audio guide, and explore objects in the exhibition.
The MFA website also offers a link to its Giza Archives website (mfa.org/giza), which details the Museum’s involvement in expeditions that unearthed important treasures from Egypt’s past. (The MFA remains actively involved in documenting the work of the original expedition to Egypt as organizer of the Giza Archives Project, recording all information from world sources about discoveries at that site.)
Aspiring archaeologists can learn more about Egypt by visiting the Museum, which has one of the world’s greatest collections of Egyptian art. Galleries feature Egyptian Funerary Arts, which includes the MFA’s collection of mummies; the Old Kingdom; Egyptian and Nubian; New Kingdom; and Late Period Egyptian. Plans also are underway for the addition of a Middle Kingdom gallery, which will be a highlight of the new George D. and Margo Behrakis Art of the Ancient World Wing.
ADMISSION/HOURS
Beginning with the opening of The Secrets of Tomb 10A (October 18, 2009–May 16, 2010), the Museum is introducing new family friendly pricing that incorporates free admission to Gund Gallery exhibitions within general admission. Non-member general admission to the Museum will be $20 and it includes entry to all galleries and exhibitions at the Museum. Children 17 and younger are free, and on Wednesdays after 4 p.m., admission is free for all (although voluntary contributions are welcome). Admission to the Museum can be purchased in advance on the website mfa.org, or by visiting an MFA ticketing desk. Prices are: MFA Members FREE Adults $20 Seniors/Students 18 and older $18 — MFA University Members, FREE Youths 17 and under FREE Youths 7–17 $7.50 — School days until 3 p.m.
All groups of 10 or more should book in advance by calling 617.369.3310 or going online at mfa.org/groups.
Engaging audio guides for adults and those designed specifically for youth are available; the price is $6 for adults, $5 for MFA members, and $4 for children (17 and under). The Museum is
The Holiday Inn has come to Hyannis revitalized and sporting a brand new logo. On the site of the old Hyannis Regency Hotel, the new Holiday Inn has 196 rooms including 20 suites with Jacuzzis and outdoor sun decks. It is located on Route132 in Hyannis near the Cape Cod Mall which is comprised of the usual complement of national chain stores, a multi cinema complex, food court, and many restaurants.
The Hotel is well suited for both families and corporate guests.
Special features:
Beautifully appointed rooms with safes, coffee makers, irons and ironing boards, and hair dryers.
Fireplaces in rooms with King sized beds
Cable TV
Pay per view movies
in-room video games
Free high speed internet throughout the Hotel Large indoor swimming pool with lifeguard
Fitness room
Restaurant and lounge for breakfast and dinner service
Over 6000 square feet of flexible space and Bar and Banquet services for corporate and business meetings, weddings, showers and other functions.
The Hotel is easily accessible to the ferries for Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Downtown Hyannis with its art galleries, shops, and restaurant, and the JFK Museum. It is helpful to have this Hotel as your base of operation while visiting other parts of the Cape. Just 1.6 miles onto Route 6 which will take you to something special at every exit; the Sandwich Fish Hatchery, the Sandwich Glass Museum,The Museum of Natural History in Brewster, The Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellfleet, Provincetown, miniature golf courses, The Wellfleet Drive In Theater, and so much more.
Holiday Inn Cape Cod/Hyannis
1127 Route 132
Hyannis, MA 02601
508-775-1153
1-800-HOLIDAY
For more information on what to see and do on the Cape click on the following posts:
Recently the number of hotels on Cape Cod that are part of chains has dramatically increased. For the most part the chain hotels have revamped, refurbished, and updated aging facilities. Chain hotels bring a comfort level to out-of-towners who know exactly what to expect from a facility, having seen similar examples all over the world. The same philosophy of “sameness for comfort” accounts for the success of chain restaurants and copycat malls. Furthermore the chain hotels offer reward points for continued booking, many times providing free travel and upgrades to their visitors. The challenge for these hotels is to find a way to maintain the charm and individuality of their city or town.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Cod, at 99 Rte. 28, W. Yarmouth, under the auspices of the Hilton chain, has done just that. Rather than refurbishing an older Cape Cod hotel, the new owners razed the old Americana Hotel and built an entirely new totally non-smoking facility, the first new hotel on the Cape in 20 years. In keeping with the traditional low rise hotels and motels of the Cape, the owners built 136 beautiful rooms on 3 floors with the blue and white nautical decor so prominent on the Cape.
The Hampton Inn & Suites offers a free buffet style full hot breakfast served in a pleasant environment. You will also enjoy an indoor as well as outdoor pool, fitness center, game room, and business center. The hotel also offers access to a public beach for those who prefer sand and surf.
All the rooms are large, clean, and well appointed. The Suites, which are well worth the small additional price, have both a microwave oven and refrigerator as well as a sofa bed. For coffee aficionados, all rooms have a CV-1 coffee maker which for me is far more sanitary than the usual coffee makers found in hotel.
I met Mr. Fred Darling, one of the owners, and Brenna Sullivan, the General Manager, who proudly showed me the facility and pointed out its special features. If you are traveling to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket for a day trip and do not wish to take your car on the ferry, you can leave it parked at the hotel and take a cab for a nominal fee.
All hotels on the Cape are staffed with friendly, helpful, knowledgeable people ready to make a traveler welcome. This is especially true at the Hampton Inn & Suites.
Hampton Inn & Suites
99 Rte. 28
W. Yarmouth, Ma
508-862-9010
As you drive east on Route 6 in Wellfleet, just past the Wellfleet Drive In Theater you will find the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, open all year, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2008. It is part of the network of 45 sanctuaries operated under the auspices of the Mass Audubon. The Sanctuary, its staff and corps of volunteers are devoted to providing a serene, beautiful, friendly environment to all its visitors while informing and educating. I have been a volunteer at the sanctuary for several years and know what a special place it is. Visitors from around the country as well as around the world come to share in the beauty and tranquility of this spot.
You do not have to be an avid birder, a devoted naturalist, an expert in plants, fish, turtles or horseshoe crabs to thoroughly enjoy yourself though I must admit visitors, myself included, have become inspired to learn more.
As you enter the Esther Underwood Johnson Nature Center, you will be greeted by a volunteer who will provide you with a map showing the 5 miles of well marked trails that wind through the sanctuary’s over 1000 acres and many varied habitats; sandy beach, pine woods, a freshwater pond and salt marsh. Strollers can be used on most of the trails, although at certain spots, such as the sandy beach, you may have some difficulties.
Before you exit the Nature Center to the trails, visit the Exhibit Hall adjacent to the admission area. On view are both a freshwater and saltwater aquarium, an osprey exhibit, examples of shells and skulls from many different types of turtles, humpback whale ribs, jawbone, and vertebra, the skeleton of a pilot whale which was unearthed on the sanctuary by the children of the day camp in the 1960s and so much more. The most frequently asked question by visitors to the exhibit hall is what is that blue chair on the wall? It is a chair that came from The Outermost House immortalized by Henry Beston chronicling his experiences living in his cottage on the beach in Eastham. Mr. Beston had given the house and 50 acres of land in trust to the Mass Audubon. Unfortunately the house was lost in the great winter storm of 1978.
Of special delight to our visitors is the bird viewing windows where you regularly see red winged blackbirds, goldfinch, cardinals, red bellied woodpeckers, mourning doves, squirrels and whatever hungry bird may be passing by. The windows provide an excellent spot for any members of your party who choose not to hike on the trails.
The Nature Center is a Green Building with the hard to achieve LEED Platinum Rating. You will notice green circles placed around the Center telling of the special materials and building design that makes the center more efficient environmentally. Please take note as you enter the trails of the solar panels that produce 30% of the Nature Center’s electricity. Every effort has been made to cut down on energy usage. Hot water is produced by solar panels on the roof of the auditorium wing. An information sheet relating what makes our Center a Platinum Rated facility can be found in the Exhibit Hall.
After seeing our exhibits, map in hand you can head onto the trails.
The Goose Pond Trail is the most popular due to the wide variety of things to see. Watch for the Fowler’s Toads, Fiddler Crabs, and birds, bird, birds. There is a Trail Guide available at the front desk that explains the items numbered along the way. It can be purchased for $3.00 or borrowed for a returnable deposit of $5.00.
The Silver Spring Trail takes you around a freshwater pond and is the shortest in size. It is heavily canopied with trees and is a good place to walk on a hot summer’s day. Watch for Snapping Turtles and listen for green frogs and bullfrogs.
The Try Island Trail takes you on to the Boardwalk to the sandy beach. Watch for egrets, herons, willets, whimbrels, Greater Yellowlegs etc. Remember to watch the tides which can make the Boardwalk inaccessible for a short time.
The Bayview Trail, the longest on the sanctuary, will take you through the pitch pine and oak woodland. From the top of the hill you can see a picture postcard view of Cape Cod Bay.
In front of the Nature Center is the Butterfly Garden planted by the volunteers with colorful varieties to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Also take note of the Oriole feeder consisting of grape jelly and oranges which the Orchard and Baltimore Oriole love.
Camping at the Sanctuary is available if you are a member of the Mass Audubon by January of the year of your visit. There are 20 sites, restrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, picnic tables and trash barrels. The camping site is very popular and well loved by people who come every year. It is not the type of camping area for large RVs but rather for back to the basics tenting. It is necessary to make arrangements in advance.
If you are staying in the area for an extended time and have children or grandchildren, you will want to get information on the Day Camp programs. Campers 4-15 can participate in half or full day activities ranging from exploring the trails to learning about the environment. Older children can travel off-site to kayak, whale watch, and explore the National Seashore. Special discounts are available for year long Cape residents who attend Cape schools.
Membership in Mass Audubon brings special rates for all programs and a discount in our Gift Shop. Currently a special rate of $29.00 is being offered for a Family membership for one full year.
The Wellfleet Bay program brochure, available at the Center and on-line, is a treasures trove of events for adults, children, and families. Kayaking, trail hikes, music, drawing, birding, Marine Life cruises, and so much more is offered lead by experienced members of the Wellfleet Bay staff. Registration is most often necessary. Again members pay discounted rates.
The Cape Cod Field School offers educational courses for adults. There are courses of four and two day length on subjects including photography, sketching, turtles, shellfish, botany, and marine animal strandings. All are led by experts in their particular fields.
Research at the Center is currently being done on many subjects including Horseshoe Crabs and Diamondback Terrapins. Also a restoration of the Oyster Reef in Wellfleet Bay is in progress.
As you may have surmised, I am very enthusiastic about the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. I regularly see and hear the expressions of gratitude from the visitors to this wonderful and educational facility.
291 State Highway, Route 6
P.O. Box 236
South Wellfleet, MA 02663
508-349-2615
Nature Center/ Trail Hours
Nature Center: Memorial Day to Columbus Day: Daily, 8:30 to 5 p.m.
Columbus Day to Memorial Day: Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 to 5 p.m.
Trails: Open every day, 8 a.m. to dusk (8 p.m. in the summer)
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Economic concerns still plague the American citizenry. The latest unemployment figures have risen higher than predicted by those “in the know”.
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Higher gas prices have created a boon for travel within 200 miles of home, but have left the traditional air travel spots like Las Vegas hungry for visitors.
Unbelievably the status of the state of California bond ratings have been downgraded to BBB by Fitch Rating Service, just above a junk bond rating.
Waiting and watching and keeping cash available currently appears to be the best strategy for financial solvency and survival.
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phenomenon comes to the Cape. I am a volunteer at the Mass Audubon’s Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. When you come to the Cape please come in for a visit. We are closed on Monday’s in the winter, but are otherwise open. Every year, from late October through mid December, the Sanctuary rescues cold stunned sea turtles.
of Boston to transport the turtles for further treatment or study. If successfully rehabilitated, they are placed back into the ocean.
