South Coast Prime Times – Nov./Dec. 2014

10th

November /December 2014 · Volume 10 · Number 6

Greeting the Season

6 10

spooky books

Saluting

great gifts

our Veterans

Shopping

Everything

the South Coast

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The beautiful door Thirty years ago, the average homeowner could choose from just a few front door styles. If you look around your neighborhood, you will probably see a small assortment of fan lites, decorative oval glass, or plain 6-panel doors. These days there are so many design options that everyone can get a custom look at an affordable price.

Bye Bye draft snakes Not only are newer doors more energy efficient, but newer frame technology allows for a self-adjusting weatherseal so you can retire those ‘draft snakes’ this winter and save on heating bills. mock it up Ready for a change, but not sure how it will look? Try out MAX, our online door configurator and try out some combinations. With 50 Glass options and 46 Door options, you can really customize your look. We can even prefinish in stain or paint.

expert advice Choosing your design is the easy part. When it comes to answering questions about the inswing, overhang, frame system, jambs, prefinishing, hardware - it’s best to talk to an expert. Visit our showroom and let us walk you through the process. installation is key The bottom line is a door needs to be functional and efficient before anything else. Our installation department can insure a proper fit so you can focus on which wreath to hang.

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contents in every issue

4 From the publisher 32 Extra! Extra!

Local news and views

Prime season

6

18

Prepping for winter

By Jay Pateakos Saluting veterans

By Sean McCarthy

12

Prime living

12

16

20

26

28

30

20

Scenic shopping

By Michael J. Vieira Books for all ages

By Laura LaTour Preventing Alzheimer’s

By Elizabeth Morse Read Local doctor turned author

By Brian J. Lowney Driving technology

By Dan Logan Reverse mortgages

By Sherri Mahoney-Battles

Good times

By Paul Kandarian

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32 On the cover: This issue, we prepare for the holidays as they come knocking.

From trick-or-treaters to friends and family carrying fruitcakes and gifts, the front door is where all our celebrations begin. So prop up that skeleton,

40 The good ol’ days 2

18

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stuff that turkey, or raise that garland, because it’s that time of year again.

Knock knock! This cover features a Captiva custom wood door built locally at Horner Millwork in Somerset, MA. www.hornermillwork.com

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From The Publisher November/December 2014 n Vol. 10 n No. 6 Published by

Coastal Communications Corp.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

As the holiday season fast approaches, I encourage all of our readers to give thanks.

Ljiljana Vasiljevic Editor

Derek Vital Online editor

Paul Letendre Contributors

Paul E. Kandarian, Laura LaTour, Dan Logan, Brian J. Lowney, Sherri Mahoney-Battles, Sean McCarthy, Elizabeth Morse Read, Jay Pateakos and Michael J. Vieira South Coast Prime Times is published bi-monthly.

Copyright ©2014 Coastal Communications Corp.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means, without written permission from the Publisher. All information contained herein is believed to be reliable. Coastal Communications Corp. does not assume any financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of an advertisement in which the typographical error occurs.

Next issue

Thank former military personnel for their service to our country, especially on or around Veteran’s Day. Show gratitude to the person who serves you coffee at the local diner or who bags your groceries at the supermarket. Appreciate what you have and help spread goodwill.

Kindness is contagious.

Be thankful for good health and never take it for granted. It is likely that you know someone who has been affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. The horrible disease takes a tremendous toll on the person afflicted and their loved ones. Learn more about preventative measures that can be taken in Elizabeth Morse Read’s article on page 20.

The air conditioning units have been removed from the window and the sweaters and blankets have been taken out of storage. Now that you are warm and toasty, find out what improvement projects can help your home survive the winter in Jay Pateakos’s story on page 6.

If you find yourself struggling to pay the bills, Sherri Mahoney-Battles explains why a reverse mortgage may be a decent option. Learn more about how they work on page 30.

And here’s a reminder to turn back the clocks on November 2 and hit the polls two days after that. Enjoy the foliage and crisp, fall temperatures while they last. We thank our sponsors for making it possible to put out this issue.

December 17, 2014

Circulation 25,000

Subscriptions $14.95 per year

M ailing address South Coast Prime Times P.O. Box 3493 Fall River, MA 02722

Ljiljana Vasiljevic Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Phone (508) 677-3000

Website http://www.coastalmags.com

E-mail editor@coastalmags.com

Our advertisers make this publication possible —please support them 4

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prime season

Gearing up for

winter Horner has many energy-efficient doors on display at its showrooms and measure and install as well.

It seemed like just yesterday we were providing home improvement tips for the spring. after a long, hard winter. Here we are again, this time looking for tips to prepare for the cold weather.

There’s many interesting tips to be shared and advice to be given on everything from a new Jay shower to updating your heating system to simPateakos ple things like just cleaning out your gutters and downspouts to getting cardboard out of your basement. So follow me and don’t think so much of the impending winter and more of the great season of fall that comes in between.

Let’s just focus on one season at a time shall we?

Steve Andras, owner of Pioneer Basement (www.pioneerbasement.com), said there are a number of things homeowners can do to prepare for the fall and winter seasons that may help in the short and long terms.

“Little things like cleaning out your gutters and downspouts before the leaves start falling that could cause significant backups,” Andras said. “You should also clean out your basement of anything organic like cardboard because there will be high humidity and moisture in your basement from now until the end of October.”

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Andras said the same thing goes for the attic as well related to clearing away things not needed that can help airflow there.

Another thing people tend to forget in the spring and summer months is their sump pump maintenance. Andras said homeowners should run their pumps periodically to assure they are still in working condition before they actually need it.

“These pumps have not been used all summer and then when you need them they may not work,” said Andras. “We suggest a tune-up to assure the pump is in great working order and ready for the work ahead.”

Generators are another thing that needs to be tuned up along the same vein as the sump pumps, especially with us being in the height of hurricane season though we’ve needed them over the course of a few snow storms as well.

“Make sure to also have battery backup for your sump-pumps,” Andras noted.

Joe Pires, owner of Grate Products (www.grateproducts.com), said people need to make sure they have emergency kits on hand

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Continued from previous page and that they are fully stocked just in case a major storm hits. Seriously, do you know where your emergency candles and flashlights are? Likely not.

“Make sure you inventory them and that you have batteries as backup, and that you have gas for your generators,” said Pires.

“Over the last two years we’ve had storms where we’ve lost power for up to 5 days. We need to be prepared if that happens again.”

Take it inside As for fall renovations, Andras said where a majority of work was done outside over the last 4 to 5 months in creating new decks, pools and patio areas, that focus will now begin to move inside the homes as weather gets cooler.

“A lot of people are looking to renovate their basement and they need to start prepping it now so they can work through the winter months,” said Andras. “The fall is the perfect time to start thinking about adding more space to the home.”

Speaking of working inside the home, let’s talk shower trends. Does anyone take a bath anymore? Apparently not, according to Nelson Linhares, of Dartmouth’s The Bath Cove (www.thebathcove.com) and what people are looking for these days.

“As for the younger generation, they also prefer the large walk-in shower verses a tub/shower combination. It’s more spacious inside and we can get a custom look inside with a rain head coming from the ceiling with body sprays and a handheld shower is very user friendly.”

Linhares noted bubble massage tubs, also known as air tubs, have grown in popularity over the last 8 to 10 years due to the ease of cleaning and maintenance.

“When we see trends change, we at The Bath Cove try to stay on top of the changes,” said Linhares, noticing an uptick in renovation projects over the last year.

“Home owners aren’t afraid to put their money back into their homes to up the value homeowners and they no longer look at bathrooms the way they used to 15 years ago. It’s more a part of the house than ever before.”

The heat is on Now that your air-conditioning systems will soon be getting a break, you need to start thinking about your heating system.

How’s that furnace looking? How old is it anyway? When’s the last time you’ve had maintenance done on it? Speaking from experience as a person who lost a furnace

forget about the hot, humid days,” said George Mercier, owner of Fall River-based G.M. Refrigeration (www.gmrefrig.com).

“We see a trend towards using ductless systems for homes and businesses. The ductless systems are very quiet and tend to fit the open concept of newer homes.

The units are available in a HEAT PUMP version which can also heat your home or business.”

Mercier said these units use electricity in a very efficient way and, depending on the system, can lead to monthly savings on your heating bill. Technology, Mercier noted, has changed rapidly and almost all ductless system use variable-speed compressors to match the load exactly.

“Older systems would bring on large burners or compressors whether the conditions called for it or not. The new systems match your requirements as they are constantly changing based on load conditions and outdoor temperatures. With new technology we gain higher efficiencies, but keeping-up with all the changes is mind boggling,” said Mercier.

Again, because of the rapidly changing technology, nothing stays the same for too long, Mercier added. In just heating sys-

the Bath Cove showroom

‘Home owners aren’t afraid to put their money back into their homes to up the value and they no longer look at bathrooms the way they used to

15 years ago’

“The trend for the last few years has been eliminating the tub and doing a large walkin shower which is easier to get into and also putting in a seat which would benefit the homeowner as they age in their home.

Over the last few years, everyone wants to stay in their home as long as possible and not go into a nursing home,” said Linhares.

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during a snowstorm due to a lack of maintenance, you don’t want that happening to you. Ever.

“For us, when fall comes people start to think about upgrading their heating systems. It’s not to say that we don’t install cooling in the winter but people tend to

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tems alone, G.M. offers efficiencies ranging from 80 to 98 percent. They maintain a large inventory of parts so as not to leave anyone out in the cold, so to speak. So if the present is that hard to keep up with, what does the future look like?

“I see everyone owning a self-sufficient

home producing electricity from solar roofs lines are back on the rise which is also a big that will help heat and cool their homes factor in renovation projects, she said. for little or no energy cost. Remember that “Today when a homeowner is looking to technology comes with great expense and renovate they have so many more options everyone should weigh their needs based than years ago. Twenty years ago Horner on installed cost versus long-term needs. may have stocked ten door styles and a Many of the new systems will pay for couple of hinge options. Today there are themselves and offer a return on investclose to 30 different doors styles in stock ment over the less efficient systems,” said and more than 10 hinge options,” Gurry Mercier. noted. “Television shows, many that are And with heating systems comes places seen on HGTV, have made a big impact on where heat can escape right? That’s where the home building and remodeling indusHorner Millwork (www.hornernillwork. try. People love those shows and gather com) comes in. all kinds of ideas for their own homes.

“For fall renovation Additionally there are projects we are seeing thousands of pictures ‘Windows and front found on websites a lot of customers coming in asking such as Houzz and door replacements are Pinterest that inspire about replacement windows and front homeowners.” very popular at this time After several diffidoor replacements. cult years during the Homeowners start of the year’ recession, Gurry said thinking about the the industry is now upcoming winter in its second growth year which is good season this time of year, especially after the news for everyone of us. cold winter that we had last year. Not only “We have hired many new employees do new windows add to the curb appeal of over the past two years to keep up with the home, homeowners will see the savings the growing business. It is very important in their energy bills,” said Susan Gurry, for us to have the latest products to show vice president of Marketing for Somersetour customers whether that is through our based Horner. “Changing the front door is showrooms or our website,” said Gurry. also a very popular at this time. Sometimes “We are very big on training so that our just a fresh coat of paint will give a new sales reps, designers and employees are look to an old door.” keeping up with the latest products and Gurry said Horner not only displays these trends, passing that expertise on to our products at its showrooms for customers customers so they can make the most to see, but they also measure and install. informative and best decisions about their Getting the proper measurements can save homes.” a lot of headaches at the time of install.

So there you have it, a little bit of everyAccording to Gurry, proper installation, thing, from basements and attics to tubs whether it is done by a remodeling contractor or by Horner’s installation department, and showers, HVAC to windows, doors and is key to the window or door’s perforbeyond. Of course you can’t focus on all mance. of these things this winter, but maybe one “Other fall renovations that we’re seeing per year to help make your house operate quite a bit of include changing out interior at its best. Just like only feeding yourself doors and adding moldings. No longer do junk food, not properly taking care of your homeowners want the ‘cookie cutter’ doors house can give you bellyaches of its own that were installed in their homes at the sort. See what needs the most love and go time of construction. Now a days there are from there. Don’t wait until that snowstorm to think about it, or in fact, to be so many different styles to choose from, a forced to think about it. homeowner wants something that matches their taste,” Gurry said.

Jay Pateakos has been a freelance writer for Time is right more than 10 years including daily and weekly Gurry said the improving economy has newspapers and monthly magazines. A native of more people jumping back into home New Bedford, he currently lives in Marion and improvement projects that they may have has three children. put off due to uncertainties. Home equity

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Fabulous Gifts

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Victorian Christmas Ornaments Fall River Historical Society, Fall River, MA (508) 679-1071 x5, www.fallriverhistorical.org Over 300 different mouth-blown ornament designs are waiting for you at the Museum Shop and Boutique. It’s the ultimate stop for classic holiday gifts, sweets and fashion accessories. Prices range from $5 to $100 for collector’s items.

The Sweet Karma Rose Bouquet Swwt Karma Cakes, (774) 271-6189 www.sweetkarmacakes.com

2

Perfect for any celebration, the Sweet Karma Rose Bouquet is fifteen of your favorite cupcakes arranged into a beautiful floral centerpiece. Wow your guests this holiday! Gift certificates also available. $37

Handknit Donegal Wool Aran Sweater Claddagh Connection, Seekonk, MA (508) 336-6500, Find us on Facebook Keep warm this winter with a Rita Condron handknit orange Donegal wool Aran sweater. Also available in natural, charcoal, Kelly green, oatmeal, and dark brown. $169

3

Garnet Nouveau Wire Cuff

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J&J Jewelry, Fall River, MA (508) 676-7169, www.jjjewelry.com Find your sparkle in the season of wonder with this subtle, yet standout piece from the John Medeiros Jewelry Collections. Handcrafted in Rhode Island, this bracelet seems imbued with the spirit of the holidays. Bangle bracelets starting at $110.

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Gift Baskets Simmons Cafe and Market, Little Compton, RI, (401) 635-2420 Find us on Facebook Filled with local handmade gifts and foodstuffs, these gift baskets can be custom-made to suit your needs.

Stop by Simmons Cafe and Market to design the perfect gift today! $20-$300

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Fabulous Gifts

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Sailor’s Knot Cuff Bracelet Plante Jewelers, Swansea, MA (508) 673-0561, www.plantejewelers.com

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Among the selection of unusual jewelry, loose diamonds, and colored gemstones, you’re find this lovely piece. If you’ve been lucky enough to “tie the knot” with a lady sailor, this bracelet is the perfect way to show how you never want to let her go. $295

7

Wood, Wind and Water, A Story of the Opera House Cup Race of Nantucket Anne T. Converse Photography, Marion, MA (508) 728-6210, www.annetconverse.com This book consists of photos by Anne T. Converse, and text written by Carolyn M.Ford. Live vicariously through the stunning pictures and colorful tales of classic wooden yacht owners with a passionate commitment, who restore and race these gems of the sea. A visual tribute to preserve a piece of our yachting aesthetic, this is a collectable for many sailors and yacht lovers worldwide. $45

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Kilim Handbag and Shoes Silk Road Traders at Gallery 4, Tiverton, RI (401) 816-0999, www.gallery4tiverton.com Stay fashionable this holiday season thanks to your home for Oriental rugs, antique Asian furniture, silk scarves, ceramics, and jewelry from Turkey and Asia. This timeless kilim handbag and shoes shown, as well as wallets and large travel bags, vary in style and price. $45-$450

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Rolling Owl Stool Anthi Frangiadis Associates, Marion, MA (508) 748-3494, www.anthif.com You don’t have to have night vision to know a good seat when you see one.

Handcrafted by Maine artist Geoffrey Warner, the stool base is available in sage, red, black,blue, aqua, and chrome. $595

10

Unique Boutique Gifts Deni’s Closet, Westport, MA (508) 636-0063, deniscloset.com Deni’s Closet boasts the best in fall fashion and style. The boutique is stuffed to the rafters with a unique selection including tabletop, frames, and personal items to suit anyone’s budget and taste. $-$$

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prime Living

Simmons Café and M arket (left) and the Euro at Phoenix store have brought new life to historic buildings.

Scenic shopping spots Michael J. Vieira

For the lack of a better explanation, I’m going to blame global warming for the shift in the calendar. Why else would Oktoberfest beer come out in August and Christmas trees bedeck the malls not much later?

As I have for many years, I’m going to measure my seasons by the colors of the trees and the length of the days – not by the sale flyers.

In the interest of full disclosure, I’m really not much of a shopper. Occasionally, I go in a store and buy stuff, but except for December 23 or thereabouts when I make my kids come with me to Christmas shop, and have lunch or a late night snack, I’m just not into those aisles.

So, whenever I can, I’m going to skip the mall, exit the highway and take a ride

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down a country road. If there’s a shop worth visiting, I might just do that.

Here are a few spots along the roads less travelled.

Finding Fairhaven It’s easy to speed through Fairhaven on Route 195. I’ve done it.

But not far off the interstate are shops, restaurants and history. Both Mark Twain and Lizzie’s sister Emma Borden were reported to find respite in this town.

Although there are lots of things to do on Huttleston Avenue, better known as Route 6, head down Main Road toward the work-

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ing waterfront. On the corner of Center Street, you’ll see the Euro Ship Store at Phoenix Hall. The business address is 2 Middle St, Fairhaven and the phone number is (508) 994-3020.

It’s located in what was an old drug store and the etched glass on some windows still advertise “The Browne Pharmacy” and “ExLax.” Open the door, and you might think that you’ve entered an Alice in Wonderland world.

At first, it looks like a small gift shop or tourist spot, but then the store expands.

There are books…and gifts…and jewelry… and clothes…and clocks, Crocs and frocks.

“It’s a very eclectic little store,” employee Beth Mahaney said, adding, “When somebody asks for something that we don’t have, I’m surprised.”

Funny signs and poignant cards are displayed not far from a room full of

Westward, ho!

You can jump back on the highway and

YMCA SOUTHCOAST ·

Each day at the Y, people of all ages are coming together to get and stay active. Seniors are engaging in social activities and meeting others who share common interests and passions.

They’re participating in group exercise and aquatics classes and learning about proper nutrition. And they’re working side-by-side with our Wellness Coaches to develop more active, productive lives.

hoods and the zoo at Buttonwood Park. I like it because it feels like the South Coast – beaches and bars, scenic views and city shops, sadness and beauty.

Old Westport Road beckons just across from the Dartmouth Mall and Faunce Corner Road. You can now leave the Mecca of chain stores and stop lights, or hit a chain store or two first if you’d rather.

For me, I’d rather take the peaceful winding ride down Old Westport Road to Chase Road and Russells Mills Road to Horseneck Road. Along the way, there are more historic spots and hidden treasures including the unique Salt Marsh Pottery.

Salt Marsh Pottery (www.saltmarsh. com) creates hand-made ceramic pottery using wildflowers and baby hand and footprints. Housed in an old school, it’s a great spot for a quick stop in the Village at Russells Mills.

Continuing along the road, the seasons are revealed. Depending on the time of year, there are brilliant fall colors, old trees dusted with light snow, brilliant greens and beach traffic.

“Suddenly, Dartmoor Gifts appears like a Brigadoon at 201 Horseneck Road in South Dartmouth.

“It’s a funky old building,” Dartmoor employee Lea McBratney said, “It’s cool.”

And “cool” it is. There are wind chimes lulling the visitor into a state of peace, lawn ornaments, and lots of shiny, glass balls and hanging things.

Bird feeders and mums share space with pottery and metal wall art. A salt and pepper shaker made of tableware stands not far from Christmas decorations.

“There’s a gift for every palette,” says Jim McBratney, Leah’s husband. “It’s a very relaxed atmosphere.”

Lea is busy with customers, so he gives

FITNESS FUN & FRIENDS

Beth is one of several young, pleasant workers who take time to greet folks who walk in and help when needed. Julie Isaksen, whose mother, Gail, owns the shop, oversees the operation, but stressed that she’s “learning the ropes.”

“It’s a combination of my taste and my mother’s,” she explained, adding that Tove Perry takes care of everything “behind the scenes.” And, when called, Tove appears from another room.

“We have very unique things,” Tove said, pointing out that there’s a nice mix of gifts, toys and Scandinavian items.

Julie added, “If it’s not here, you don’t need it.”

Although the store has been open at the Center Street location since the 1980’s, the original store is still open in a commercial building on Ferry Street.

It continues to sell commercial fishing gear, but also serves as Euro’s outlet store.

The industrial space is all cement block and efficiency, except for the women’s outfits that hang out front.

It’s also not far from Margaret’s Restaurant. The hidden treasure is a great place to eat, but beware, check Facebook and other online resources, the hours that they are open are a little unique.

But then again, that’s Fairhaven. There are beaches, a fort that operated in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the Civil War, and historic spots including the house where Manjiro Nakahama, the first Japanese person in the United States lived.

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‘If it’s not here, you don’t need it’ - Julie Isaksen

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head toward Westport, but I like to drive over the New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge.

The swing truss bridge is under construction and it opens pretty much every hour during the day. So plan accordingly.

To be honest, Route 6 can be slow going, but it’s an interesting ride past shopping centers and malls, through city neighbor-

It’s happening every day at the Y — people of all ages are getting healthier and living better through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. Join us.

toys that range from old fashioned bouncy balls to finely-crafted, wooden playthings. Tools and travel items line one aisle which opens into racks of coats, jackets, shirts, shoes and more.

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Continued from previous page She’s right.

Cross the line Rather than hitting the highway, it’s a funky ride through the backwoods into Tiverton, Rhode

fried clouds of clams and love. They sustained me as I made my way to Simmons Café and Market.

Simmons is located at 78 Crandall Road in what was the F.A. Simmons Store in Little Compton. The general store opened

‘I love featuring local artists. We have a lot of talented people in this this area and this place gives them a showcase.’ - Lea McBratney

the quick tour and answers some questions.

“She’s always looking for different stuff,” Jim McBratney said, “It’s hard work, but it’s fun.”

When she’s free, Lea McBratney states the obvious.

“I love people and people love coming here,” she said.

And she’s particularly fond of artists. The shop is packed with the work of regional

Island. There are many ways to get there, probably thanks to the paths walked

by Native Americans and widened by farmers, so it’s best to turn to an App or GPS. At some point, you’ll probably end up on Route 177 or Route 81 where Fall River and Tiverton collide. Crandall Road heads toward Little Compton and Stafford Road leads into Fall River.

Depending how you get there, you may pass Macray’s Seafood II. The takeout spot, located at 115 Stafford Road in Tiverton, claims to use the

in 1922 and when you open the door, in some ways, you go back in time.

Don’t expect to find Coke or Pepsi, processed meats and chemical additives.

Instead, enjoy all natural drinks, local meats, dairy products and eggs. There’s also organic produce and other products like grains and sauces.

“We’re exclusively all-natural organic,” store employee Eric Maxwell said, adding, “A lot of market items are hard to get.”

‘Our mission is to provide local, delicious, healthy food. We make our soup from scratch daily, and our salads have local, organic greens.’ - Jennifer Grantham talent from New England and beyond.

Whenever possible, she also purchased products made in the United States.

“I love featuring local artists,” Lea said, “We have a lot of talented people in this this area and this place gives them a showcase.”

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same recipes as the legendary fried seafood shack on Route 6 from years’ past.

Shopping makes me hungry, so I took a detour and ordered six clam cakes.

Simple, elegant, delicious

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M ason Carvara,Jennifer M arshall Grantham and Kristy Cabral from Simmons Café and Market

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He mentioned organic dog and cat food as well as the Virgil’s soft drinks. Shopping also makes me thirsty, so I opted for an orange cream soda. It tasted like a Creamsicle, albeit a healthy one in liquid form.

Simmons is staying true to their “general store” past. You can find all kinds of things there, but the cards, soaps and candles, toys, jewelry, clothing, journals, pottery, pillows, and baskets are made within 100 miles, pointed out Jennifer Marshall Grantham, the owner.

In an adjacent room is a café that serves New Harvest espresso and coffee and Irie tea from Rhode Island, breakfast, lunch and baked goods made fresh at Simmons daily. They also serve Acushnet Creamery ice cream.

“We’re now providing ready-made takehome dinners, to include roasted chicken and pot pie, every day, and we’re developing a weekly menu of additional dinner options,” said Grantham.

The store has a Facebook page where they post what’s cooking, as well as information about special events like their Thursday evening series which featured a “Winter Wellness” session and a night devoted to mushrooms.

“Our mission is to provide local, delicious, healthy food,” Grantham noted.

“We make our soup from scratch, daily, and our salads have local, organic greens and vegetables.”

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Grantham also stressed that they are also involved in the community and Simmons hosts a variety of community events ranging from cooking classes to natural beauty and wellness sessions.

And isn’t that the difference between the faceless big stores and the small shops?

Although chains do hire local people and pay taxes and fees, it’s also good for the economy when we support the small business owners. That money stays in our communities. So, your gifts keep giving in many ways.

And if you’re looking for something special for Valentine’s Day, I think those flyers are being printed as we speak.

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prime living

Partners Village Store: reporting from the easy chair

By L aura L aTour

In our household, preparation for the Halloween season begins shortly after the first school bus arrives in September. I pull out the bin of (slightly) spooky DVDs and books and we start our weekly movie night and Halloween-themed bedtime stories. With a husband who is a classic horror film fan and two kids who love to play dress-up, is it any wonder that Halloween is a family affair?

The H allo-Wiener

by Dav Pilkey

Ghosts in the House!

by K azuno Kohara Published by Roaring Brook Press, $6.99 paperback A brave and resourceful young witch must rid her new home of all its haunts. She does so in a way that is both creative and giggle-worthy. Ghosts in the House features whimsical three-color illustrations and is a delightful way to introduce little ones to the trappings of Halloween. My three-yearold could not stop laughing at images of ghosts being thrown in with the dirty laundry. (Best for ages 2 and up)

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A lice and Greta

by Steven J. Simmons

Published by Scholastic, $6.99 board book

Published by Charlesbridge, $7.95 paperback

From the creator of Captain Underpants, The Hallo-Wiener is a book to be enjoyed by dog-lovers of all ages. Oscar, who is “half-a-dog tall and one-and-a-half dogs long,” must contend with the laughter and taunts of his fellow (more standard-sized) dogs. Can he overcome his physical shortcomings to save his friends on Halloween night? The comic-like illustrations and funny quips will entertain both child and parent. (Ages 4 and up)

Vibrantly illustrated with watercolors by Cyd Moore, this book for early readers delivers an important message in an entertaining way. Alice is a good witch, Greta is a nasty witch. They both live on top of a mountain and “although they both looked out at the same view, they saw things differently.” Kids will love the sticky, icky messes Greta creates and will hopefully identify with Alice’s desire to be a helpful witch.

(Ages 6 and up)

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vampires, she sets out on a quest to save herself. Author Holly Black manages an intriguing new twist to the vampire genre.

In her world, vampires are quarantined in “Coldtowns” with the infected. These Coldtowns soon become Meccas for those who covet a vampire lifestyle, and a whole new society is born. The Coldest Girl is both gory and gratifying with a heroine who pulls no punches.

(Ages 15 and up)

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The Graveyard Book

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Published by HarperCollins, $8.99 paperback Nobody “Bod” Owens is a young boy being raised by ghosts. Living in a graveyard has its advantages, (lessons in “Fading” so mortals cannot see him) and its disadvantages (being kidnapped by goblins to their netherworld). Yet despite the challenges, Bod seems to be a pretty well-adjusted young man. However, Bod yearns to join the outside world and make some friends who are living. Neil Gaiman really knows how to spark the imagination, which is probably why he won the Newbery Medal for this novel.

(Ages 10 and up)

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by K atherine Howe Published by Putnam, $18.99 hardcover Set in Danvers, Massachusetts (formerly Salem Village), this novel brings history to life in a very visceral way. Colleen Rowley is a senior at St. Joan’s Academy, a very elite and competitive school. When her fellow students come down with mysterious fits and illnesses, a media frenzy is sparked and Colleen must contend with added pressure and anxiety. Will she be next?

Author Katherine Howe examines the events of the Salem witch trials and asks the question, “Can we learn from the past, or are we doomed to repeat it?”

(Ages 14 and up) Partners Village Store and kitchen is located at 865 Main Road, Westport, MA 02790.

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown

by Holly Black Published by Little, Brown, $10.00 paperback

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prime season

On Veteran’s Day, the Battleship M assachusetts fires its broadside cannons to honor the sacrifices of the men and women of our armed services. Veterans are offered free admission throughout the day.

Honoring our veterans Remember who has protected your freedom. From sea to shining sea and beyond, American servicemen have made the ultimate sacrifice so that the people they defend can live freely.

Veteran’s Day, which falls on Tuesday, November 11, would be a good opportunity to enjoy local events that give honor and respect to those who have preserved our way of life.

Battleship Cove, located at 5 Water St. in Fall River, is the home of the largest collection of US Naval ships in the world. The main ship in the fleet is the U.S.S. Massachusetts, which celebrated its’ 65th anniversary in August. Other prominent ships include the U.S.S. Lion Fish submarine, the destroyer U.S.S. Joseph F. Kennedy, and a pair of PT boats – the 617 and the 796.

Battleship Cove is the state of Massachusetts’ official memorial for wars dating

Sean McC arthy

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from World War II up until present battles.

This includes The Korean War, Vietnam, both Gulf Wars, as well as a memorial to those who perished on September 11, 2001. Battleship Cove celebrates its 49th anniversary on Veteran’s Day. “Veteran’s Day is about honoring our veterans’ sacrifices,” says Cristoff Shay, Direc-

tor of Communications and Visitor Experience at Battleship Cove. “We give a voice for the veterans who served so valiantly.”

Once again, this year’s Veteran’s Day programming will be labelled Educational Fun Shops, events that are open to the public and are geared towards families and children so that they can enjoyably learn about

‘This day means everything to me,’ Payette says. ‘I want to remind people of the importance of veterans and appreciate their service. It’s something that shouldn’t be forgotten.’

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those who have made such great contributions. Past events have enjoyed significant turnouts. The events are free to all active duty, retired and reserve military personnel. For more information, call (508) 6781101 or visit www.battleshipcove.org

New Bedford parade One of the greatest forms of celebration is a parade.

New Bedford will celebrate Veteran’s Day with a parade that will step off at 11 a.m. at the corner of Union St. and Rockdale Ave. next to Buttonwood Park. The parade route will travel down Union until it arrives downtown, taking a left onto Pleasant St. and culminating at the New Bedford Main Public Library.

There will be more than 20 organizations participating in the parade, including The Highlander Scottish Pipes, The PortugueseAmerican Band, Senor de Pedra, The Bay State Band, the New Bedford High ROTC and local Boy Scout troops.

Fairhaven events And there will be another Veteran’s Day celebration not far from New Bedford’s as Fairhaven hosts its own event, led by the efforts of Vietnam veteran Gerry Payette.

Payette was recently selected by the New Bedford Veterans Transition House as the organization’s Veteran of the Year. Payette played the pivotal role in getting the Vietnam Moving Wall to be displayed in Fairhaven in early July.

He is also one of the main organizers of the Fairhaven Vets Day Parade which will take place this year on Veteran’s Day. It will begin at Livesey Park and the Oxford School in the town’s North End at 10 a.m. and will culminate at Fairhaven High School. The parade will include a flyover between 10:15 and 10:30 a.m.

In its ninth year, the parade will feature approximately 300 veterans and as many as 3,000 spectators. Disabled veterans will be included in the parade by being transported in vans.

“This day means everything to me,” Payette says. “I want to remind people of the importance of veterans and appreciate their service. It’s something that shouldn’t be forgotten.”

For more information on being part of the parade or assisting call Payette at (508) 237-428 or visit www.vetshouse.org and www.vetfriends.com/parades/directory. cfm?state=MA Sean McCarthy has been a freelance journalist for 25 years.

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New hope for Alzheimer’s Eliz abeth Morse Read

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is characterized by a gradual then accelerating loss of memory and cognitive functioning. It is irreversible, progressive and, ultimately, fatal. But the brain’s deterioration begins decades before those outward symptoms appear. Two abnormal proteins, beta-amyloid and tau, are responsible for the characteristic “plaques and tangles” found in the damaged brain cells of an Alzheimer’s sufferer.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. More than 5 million Americans are afflicted right now, one in eight Americans over 65 years old and up to half the people over 85 years old. But the really bad news is that as many as 45 million people suffer it worldwide. And the number of global diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease, mostly in third world countries, are projected to triple by 2050.

And why are these projections so dire?

Simple. People are just living longer. Alzheimer’s disease is usually diagnosed after 60 years old. Until 150 years ago, the aver-

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age life expectancy was 35-40 years old. But life expectancy has since doubled, largely due to scientific advances and better public health policies.

But maybe we can actually prevent it for many people, or at least delay the onset and progression of symptoms. We need to discover ways to prevent those plaques and tangles from forming in the brain. We need to find low-cost, non-invasive ways to diagnose and treat symptoms. We need to find a cure.

Who’s at risk?

There is strong evidence that Alzheimer’s

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“runs in families.” Researchers have identified at least eight genes that increase risk, and all eight are related to inflammation, a major factor in the brain’s deterioration.

People who carry the APOE-e4 gene have a much higher risk of developing the disease. People with certain vitamin deficiencies or blood type AB may be at higher risk.

People with Down Syndrome are at almost 100 percent risk. On the socio-economic level, anyone at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease, obesity or diabetes – like African-Americans and Latinos – are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s

disease.

The three greatest risk factors – heredity, age and family history – can’t be changed.

Increasingly, though, researchers are finding that lifestyle habits and diet have a significant impact on whether someone will develop Alzheimer’s, even if they are born with faulty genes. A recent British study suggests that up to one-third of Alzheimer’s diagnoses can be prevented by simply changing people’s diets and lifestyle habits.

tween nutrition and the chances of developing the disease. It seems that the “hearthealthy” DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the “low glycemic-index (GI) diet” recommended for diabetes prevention is exactly what your doctor might be ordering to delay or treat Alzheimer’s disease, no matter your genetic heritage.

People with Type 2 diabetes or elevated blood sugar levels have more than double the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than people who don’t. Researchers at the Salk Institute in California are demonstrating that childhood obesity or early-onset Type 2 diabetes vastly increase a person’s chances of developing Alzheimer’s. Some scientists even consider Alzheimer’s disease to be “Type 3 diabetes,” a kind of “diabetes of the brain.”

A lifetime diet and lifestyle geared towards prevention of obesity and Type 2 diabetes may have the unintended consequence of reducing someone’s risk of Alzheimer’s.

Researchers at the National Institute of Health (NIH) advocate the “Mediterranean diet” to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Not only does the Mediterranean diet decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders like diabetes, but studies are showing that it also delays mental decline as we age. Fish, plant oils, low GI fruits and vegetables, no added sugars and a moderate consumption of alcohol and caffeine are a potential meal plan for a ripe old age.

Long story short – people around the world who eat moderate portions of fresh local produce and game (especially fish) tend to live long and vibrant lives.

Alzheimer’s diagnoses can be prevented by simply changing people’s diets and lifestyle habits

Simpler solutions?

People who are physically active throughout their life are less likely to develop symptoms than people who are sedentary.

People who are educated and stay mentally engaged are at lower risk, too. Yes, you need to “exercise” your brain. People with strong social ties and a sense of purpose and usefulness tend to have lower risk of memory/cognitive loss. And, not surprisingly, people who eat fresh local foods and maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives are at much less risk than people who are overweight, sedentary and eat a lot of refined (junk) foods.

Around the world there are geographic pockets, called “Blue Zones”, of exceptionally healthy and vital elderly people. What they all have in common, whether it’s in Sardinia or Okinawa or Loma Linda, California, is a wholesome lifestyle and diet that protects their bodies and minds against age-related ailments. People in their 90s and 100s (and there’s a lot of them, statistically, in Blue Zones) rarely suffer from degenerative diseases like cancer, dementia, heart disease or diabetes.

People who are physically active throughout their life are less likely to develop symptoms

You will be what you ate What you put in your mouth eventually ends up in your brain. One of the most exciting developments in Alzheimer’s research is uncovering the strong link be-

Do vitamin supplements help?

We’ve all heard that Vitamin E supplements might slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s. In numerous studies, diets

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Help for Alzheimer’s families When someone in the family is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, everyone is affected, not just the person afflicted. Old routines and traditions have to evolve, new habits and coping strategies need to be adopted. No single person alone should shoulder the burden of coping with a loved one’s increasing memory loss, confusion or agitation – Alzheimer’s disease is a family affair.

Adult children and grandchildren need to share the responsibilities for an older relative with Alzheimer’s disease. They need to communicate and collaborate with other family members on proactive planning – routine supervision, power of attorney, finances, medical care, arranging for outside support services. An elderly spouse or primary caregiver of an Alzheimer’s patient needs a lot of support, too – 24/7 solo caregiving is stressful and isolating.

The best way to learn about who can help you all take care of your loved one is to ask the primary care physician – he or she will make the referrals to medical specialists, and can recommend local resources.

Fortunately, there’s plenty of “outside support” on the South Coast for Alzheimer’s families. There’s a robust network of Councils on Aging/Senior Centers in every town, county and state. Many offer support services, respite care and training for caregivers, as well as adult day care programs for Alzheimer’s patients.

Other local organizations can help provide in-home care and coordinate needed services for Alzheimer’s sufferers and their caregivers. Check out Caregiver Homes (www.caregiverhomes.com), Beacon Adult Foster Care (www.beaconafc.com), Home Instead Senior Care (www.homeinstead.com), Elders First (www.eldersfirst.com) and Coastline Elderly Services (www.coastlineelderly.org).

There are also national networks

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like Alzheimer’s Association (www. alz.org) and federal government programs (www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers).

The Alzheimer’s Association even has a 24/7 helpline 1-800-272-3900. The MA/NH chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers workshops and support groups throughout the region, including a free informational series for caregivers on October 14, 21, 28 and November 18 at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford. Find out what’s on their calendar at www.alz.org/MANH. And when the holidays roll around, everyone in an Alzheimer’s family needs to pitch in to make sure that caregivers and the Alzheimer’s relative can enjoy the “new normal.” We all adjust our attitudes and schedules when new parents, sulky teenagers, the recently-bereaved or pre-school children will be part of the holiday crowd, right? Keeping the holidays bright for an Alzheimer’s family should be approached the same way – it’s the new normal.

People with mild Alzheimer’s are painfully aware of their memory lapses and confusion, and are embarrassed when someone thoughtlessly says, “Don’t you remember?” Explain to even the youngest family members that they need to be patient, respectful, and to provide memory prompts (e.g., looking at photo albums together, naming people as they approach, playing familiar music, repeating what’s just been said) when they interact with Pepe or Auntie Eileen.

One of the ironies of Alzheimer’s disease is that it erodes short-term memory quickly, but not long-term memories. Abuela or Grampa may not remember your name, but they can still remember their First Communion back in the old country, or how to make a dry martini or gorton, or how they survived WWII, Woodstock or Wall Street. Let them share their memories in a quiet corner with the least-fidgety grandchildren.

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high in Vitamin E delayed the deterioration of mental functioning. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that reduces inflammation and protects every cell in our body.

Daily supplements of Vitamin E for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s can indeed slow down cognitive decline.

But questions still persist as to proper dosage, potential side effects, and at which stage of the disease’s progression to begin supplementation.

A lifetime diet of Vitamin E-rich foods is a lot more effective in minimizing your risk than is gulping down a handful of vitamin pills later in life. Vitamin E-rich foods include plant oils, nuts and seeds, beans (including soy), tomatoes, dark greens, fish, whole grains and squashes.

But some exciting new research shows that there’s also a connection between Vitamin D and Alzheimer’s disease. In a British study, 65-and-older adults who tested with a vitamin D deficiency proved to be at least 70 percent more likely to develop dementia later in life.

Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin,” is already recognized for effectively preventing or treating osteoporosis, depression, and other age-related disorders. The hippocampus – the small seahorse-shaped part of the brain first attacked by Alzheimer’s disease – is full of Vitamin D receptors.

A vitamin D deficiency could be that “canary in the coal mine” symptom that warns of possible brain deterioration.

In less sunny months, you can store up Vitamin D by eating whole grains, fortified dairy products, mushrooms, eggs and coldwater fish.

Mind-body connection: the

importance of being busy A study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic found that elderly people with the high-risk APOE-e4 gene who exercised regularly performed better on cognitive tests than those who lead sedentary lives.

In other words, if you’re a chronic couch potato with good genes, you’re at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than is someone born with faulty genes who stays physically active.

Being “physically active” means integrating physical activity into daily chores and activities, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing yard-work. A life spent in the sitting position can double your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Research being conducted at the

Lifetime habits to reduce Alzheimer’s risks ➤ Stay slim and trim as best you can

➤ Keep learning and experimenting and playing

➤ Walk around more, both inside and outside

➤ Stay involved with family, friends and community

➤ Eat smaller portions of everything

➤ Grow, buy and eat more fresh local foods ➤ Take an interest in someone or something other than yourself ➤ Eat more fish and beans, and less red meat and dairy ➤ Prioritize proper rest and relaxation

University of California at Irvine shows that regular physical and mental stimulation in elderly people increases healthy brain function.

Hobbies like reading, playing a musical instrument, gardening or playing chess also stimulate the brain and can reduce risk of memory loss up to 40 percent. By contrast, passively watching television all day increases your risk. Likewise, staying socially active keeps your brain healthy – volunteering, joining a church choir, babysitting, meeting friends for coffee can reduce risks by 50 percent. One in seven people who have Alzheimer’s disease live alone, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Boredom and loneliness can be deadly.

E arly detection is key As of right now, there is no single simple diagnostic test that can definitively diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Yes, there are cognitive tests and PET scans, but they are expensive and unavailable to the people around the world who are at high risk.

Finding low-cost, simple and non-invasive diagnostic tests for Alzheimer’s disease is a major challenge.

Early detection of any disease allows for better intervention and treatment. And diagnostic testing for Alzheimer’s took a quantum leap just this past year. New DNA tests can screen for the faulty APOE-e4 gene. Even more exciting is that routine eye exams, and smell tests, can detect slight changes indicating brain deterioration very early on.

An Australian study showed that when those Alzheimer’s sticky plaques start forming in the brain, they also start showing up in our eyes. An eye test would mean an easier way to monitor a patient’s response to therapy and medication, too.

Our sense of smell is largely governed by our brain’s hippocampus, that same memory part of the brain affected first by Alzheimer’s disease. A decreasing ability to correctly identify familiar smells is an early sign that the hippocampus is deteriorating, according to the Harvard Aging Brain Study.

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international search for a cure Currently, most treatments for Alzheimer’s disease are focused on slowing down the progression of the disease once it’s been diagnosed. Some drugs, such as Aricept

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Continued from previous page and Namenda can slow down memory loss for a while but they can’t prevent it or reverse it. Research is ramping up worldwide to find out what causes those betaamyloid and tau proteins to form and how to prevent or destroy them.

Biochemists around the world are searching for compounds that can block the brain damage before it even begins. Cutting-edge research at the University of California at Irvine is being done with non-embryonic stem cells to find non-invasive treatments.

A new Danish study found that antibody drugs targeting beta-amyloid can prevent those brain-damaging plaques from forming in the brain in the first place.

habits that reduced their risk of stroke, obesity, and diabetes. If this downward trend continues, and more people adopt healthier lifestyles and diets, then maybe we can lower those doomsday predictions

Americans today who are 60 or older (baby boomers) have a 44 percent less chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease than their parents did

Can the tide be changed?

A tantalizing glimmer of hope is on the horizon. According to the groundbreaking “Framingham Heart Study,” Americans today who are 60 or older (i.e., baby boomers) have a 44 percent less chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease than their parents did. Might it be because the Boomer Generation has been more aware of the quality-of-lifestyle issues that the Great Generation wasn’t?

The study found that during that 30-year interim, people smoked less, got better educations and practiced diet/ lifestyle

for the costs and services needed to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Other western countries are also seeing a decline in Alzheimer’s diagnoses. But the opposite is happening in poorer nations.

Many developing countries have improved the standard of living just enough to increase life expectancy, but they don’t yet have the infrastructure to cope with the unintended consequences of a suddenly larger, aging population. The looming pandemic of Alzheimer’s disease requires

unprecedented international cooperation and funding to prevent and cure it.

Until recently, research into the prevention, treatment and possible cure for Alzheimer’s disease was grossly underfunded, as if it were some rare orphan disease. In 2009, the U.S. government allocated $640 million for Alzheimer’s research, compared with $1 billion for breast cancer research. But that lopsided prioritizing changed when the World Health Organization described Alzheimer’s disease as a time-bomb, an increasing threat to global health.

Alzheimer’s disease is not the occasional “senior moment” memory loss. It is not caused by flu shots, artificial sweeteners, dental fillings or aluminum pots and pans. It’s a relentless and irreversible shut-down of someone’s brain. There are no survivors. If we could land on the moon, create the polio vaccine, and eradicate smallpox, surely we can all find a cure for Alzheimer’s.

Elizabeth Morse Read is an award-winning writer, editor and artist who grew up on the South Coast. After 20 years of working in New York City and traveling the world, she came back home with her children and lives in Fairhaven.

Locals walk to end Alzheimer’s Team “Lyons Pride”, captained by Attorney Jane E. Sullivan, proudly participated in the Southeastern Massachusetts Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which took place on September 28 at Fort Taber in New Bedford. Lyons Pride walked in honor of Attorney Sullivan’s father, Paul J. Lyons, who died on April 4, 2004. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias. Together, walkers and donors raise funds to advance research to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s and provide programs and support to improve the lives of millions of affected Americans, their caregivers and their families. For more information, go to www.alz.org, or locally, contact the Southeastern Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Partnership at semaparternship@gmail.com.

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prime living

Healthy

pageturner A local surgeon has written an eye-opening book that addresses how money influences medical treatment and why it’s crucial for patients to advocate for their own health care and the treatment of loved ones.

Dr. Paul A. Ruggieri, M.D., has penned “The Cost of Cutting: A Surgeon Reveals The Truth Behind a MultibillionDollar Industry”. In the book, he explains how Brian J. Lowney business arrangements among hospitals, insurance companies and surgeons affect who gets treatment – and whether the patient gets the correct treatment.

The new paperback follows the successful publication of Ruggieri’s first major book titled “Confessions of a Surgeon”, which offers a candid glimpse of life behind the operating room doors.

Ruggieri earned his medical degree from Georgetown University in 1987 and completed his surgical training at Barnes Hospital on the campus of Washington University. The Barrington, R.I. native served as a surgeon in the U.S. Army for three years and practiced in Tennessee before joining Truesdale Surgical Associates, Inc., in Fall River in 1999.

The 55-year old surgeon-author has a special interest in thyroid and parathyroid surgery. He also specializes in advanced laparoscopic bowel resection, hernia repair, spleen removal and gallbladder surgery.

“People need to be advocates,” Ruggieri begins, adding that individuals have to learn to ask questions about their medical care and most important, about the cost of treatment. He adds that patients, especially

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those faced with large out-of-pocket costs, should learn to compare prices and use the information to help make important medical decisions.

“People need to know the alternatives,” said Ruggeri. “People need to be more involved.”

Insurance pays off In the book, Ruggeri tackles the dilemma surrounding the treatment of individuals who lack health insurance.

Ruggeri writes, “Patients without insurance who decide to self-pay are often, unknowingly, charged top-tier rates for their hospitalization and surgery, in line with what the better-paying insurance plans offer, or even higher. The charges are well above what Medicaid and Medicare pay. It’s a reflection of our free-market economy. Charging self-pay patients more than standard public health rates is legal.

Whether it is unethical is often the question. If a patient is willing to pay without negotiating or getting a second or third financial opinion, he or she might be paying too much.”

Ruggieri says patients who require surgery should also question a surgeon’s experience in performing the procedure. Likewise, the practitioner should be frank when discussing outcomes, whether the operations were generally successful or problematic. If the surgeon doesn’t perform the particular procedure on a regular basis, Ruggieri says the patient has the right to be referred to a more experienced physician who specializes in that specific type of surgery.

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“You have to ask the doctors,” Ruggieri notes, adding that patients also have the right to ask their primary care physician why they are being referred to a certain surgeon or specialist if they are not allowed to make their own choice.

Know your rights The doctor says if a patient doesn’t understand their medical condition or doesn’t know which questions to ask, that individual should have a patient advocate.

Procedures should always be explained and questions answered using language that is easy to understand yet not condescending.

“Medicine is intimidating and doctors are intimidating to most people,” Ruggieri observes, noting that patients have to overcome any trepidations and become involved in all aspects of their health care.

Learn about the operation before it takes place, learn about the surgeon and learn about the anesthesiologist,” he urges, adding that a patient can request a particular anesthesiologist by asking the surgeon or hospital during a pre-surgical consultation.

Ruggieri says it’s important for patients to develop a trusting relationship with their surgeon.

“We are responsible from the beginning to the end of their care,” he concludes.

The Cost of Cutting is available at local bookstores, or online at Amazon.com.

BRIAN LOWNEY is a freelance writer based in Swansea. He is the author of the new book “Unconditional Love: Pet Tales to Warm the Heart”, which is available in local bookstores.

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hould I give my home to my children?

Clients often ask if they should give their home to their children. My answer is always NO! I know that your children are wonderful and would never kick you out of your home, but what if one of them got in a bad accident, was sued and owed the other person a large settlement? You could lose your house! What if your child dies? Your daughter or son- in- law could end up owning your home. What if your child divorces? Your home may be lost in the divorce settlement. What if your child goes bankrupt? Or has bad creditors?

Your home could be lost settling your child’s debts.

As you can see, giving your home outright to your children can be dangerous. If you give your home to your children there is a chance you may not have a place to live in the future. So what should you do if you are concerned about losing your home if you have to go into a nursing home? See an experienced elder law attorney who can help you and your family figure out the best way to reach your goal. There are several different methods of protecting the home that also guarantee you a place to live for the rest of your life.

An elder law attorney should be able to help you figure out which method suits your family If you are interested in learning more about protecting your home please go to our web site www.myfamilyestateplanning.com for many informative articles. You can also call our office for a consultation at 508-994-5200. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific questions you should consult a qualified attorney.

Michelle D. Beneski is an Attorney at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. For specific questions call her at 508-994-5200 or send e-mail to mdb@nbelderlaw.com

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prime living

The future of driving Dan L ogan

Computers and advanced sensors are now standard components in the vehicles we drive every day. And they promise to see even more use as time goes on. They help make driving safer, improve comfort and convenience and make the car run more efficiently.

For car dealers, hightech options based on computers and sensors are a way to upsell you. Your challenge is to juggle the models and packages to get the features you want the most. Usually the manufacturer’s options are structured like cable TV packages—to get the features you really want you wind up having to buy everything on the options list and spend an additional 10 grand or more.

So what’s available in the way of safety and infotainment options that you might want in your next car, or what’s coming further down the road?

Safety and infotainment options slowly trickle down the price points. Last year I bought a base model 2014 Subaru Forester, which came with plenty of standard equipment, but I didn’t get the navigation system or the rear-view camera that show

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what’s behind you when you back up. I really regret not having the rear-view camera now. The car has good visibility all around, but I’ve still had a couple of unnerving surprises that a rear-view camera would have helped me avoid.

Back-up cameras will be required on every car sold in the U.S. starting in 2018, but many manufacturers are already making them standard. For example, the 2015 version of my base model Forester includes a backup camera as standard equipment.

Infotainment systems are a wildly popular option on new cars. Infotainment systems integrate in-car audio, video, Internet and navigation features. They vary widely in capability, but with the most sophisticated systems it’s like having a smartphone controlling your car, and you perform certain important functions through a touch

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screen.

Tasks that were once accomplished with a switch or knob may now require working through the infotainment system’s menus. For young drivers this makes sense.

Older drivers often think they’re stupidly complex.

Doing more with less Technology should enable you to do more with less effort. Manufacturers should be combining technological improvements with thoughtful design, a la Apple products. With infotainment systems in particular the thoughtful design part seemed to get left out of the equation when the systems first appeared.

A few years ago, Ford’s MyFord Touch infotainment system antagonized users so thoroughly, probably more for its complexity than for actual problems, that Ford’s J.D. Power ranking fell from fifth to 23rd place.

Similar opinions held for infotainment systems offered by other manufacturers.

Ford’s wasn’t even the worst regarded of the bunch. MyFord Touch keeps getting updated, and most buyers are willing to pay for MyFord Touch and Sync capability even though there’s still dissatisfaction with it.

According to The Car Connection website,

on the F-150 pickup truck version of Myand only available on higher-end touring Ford Touch and Sync, the user has the opmodels. tion to use either the touch screen or more Other manufacturers offer blind spot traditional buttons and knobs. As a result detection systems that can warn you of several more owners report being happy vehicles sitting in one of those spatial black with the system than when a touch screen holes that a quick glance doesn’t register. is the only option for entering changes.

Augmented reality windshields, headsAs a result, the dual controls are being inup displays like modern jet fighters use, troduced into other are another feature models. coming into wider ack up cameras Got to admit, the use. An GMC Acadia will be required on loaner I used a few built-in navigation system sticks in my years ago had a every car sold in craw a bit. They’re heads-up display, the starting definitely useful, meaning your speed but they’re pricey. I and various other in but many prefer to get a new useful tidbits of car, then take care manufacturers are information are of it and hang onto projected on the already making it until the nickel windshield and you and dime repairs don’t have to take them standard don’t make sense. So your eyes off the if that point comes road to scan your eight or 10 years out, what’s the likelihood dash. I loved it. that the navigation system will still be Manufacturers are already taking this working? Or if it is, that it will be obsolete technology several steps further. The to the point of uselessness? heads-up display is tied to the GPS system to show where a turn will be made, and Costly upgrades what lane to be in to make a turn. Newer I guess I’m cynical. I can’t help but think versions show drivers how far they are that a navigation system is a subtle but from objects ahead of them, and even sugsignificant incentive for encouraging gest routes to avoid the object. car owners to buy a new car sooner. The “Personal assistance safety services” such navigation systems are usually covered as GM’s OnStar, Bluetooth wireless conunder the car’s warranty, but you periodinectivity, live traffic reports, smart keyless cally have to update the map database, entry systems, and heated and cooled seats which typically costs a couple of hundred all contribute to greater comfort and convebucks per update. And once your warranty nience. expires, fixing that sucker will hurt.

Further down the road are self-driving With the power connections now built cars and such promising innovations as into most cars, you can choose between vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infraa built-in navigation system or a portable structure communications, meaning your GPS. A portable GPS is less convenient, car will communicate with other cars and but it can also be upgraded or replaced at with street signs and other markers to a much lower cost. You have the option prevent accidents and help you get to your here, unless you’re getting into the big-time destination more efficiently. We’re already infotainment thing and the navigation seeing high-end car models that learn our screen also serves as a control panel for the individual driving habits and adapt to entertainment options. them to help us drive more safely.

Useful sophisticated safety features are Here, however, you can see looming now optional on lower priced new cars. another collision between improving Lane departure warning systems beep if technology and your privacy. One can only you get to close to the lane stripe without wonder what the NSA will do with that having your turn signal on. Pre-collision information. warning systems have the ability to sense an impending collision and begin braking.

Dan Logan is a freelance writer and photogThe Forester offers the Eyesight Technolrapher from Fairhaven, MA. He also teaches ogy Package has pre-collision warning, classes about Nikon cameras and software at braking and throttle management, a lane the Learning Connection in Providence. E-mail departure warning system and adaptive him at dlogan@thegrid.net. cruise control, but it’s around $2,400

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prime living

Role reversal Sherri M ahoneyBattles

Every once in a while I find myself having second thoughts about an opinion I’ve formed. Such is the case with reverse mortgages. Reverse mortgages are making a rebound, and there are some good reasons for this.

In the past many Americans took advantage of reverse mortgages, quickly withdrawing large amounts of money and later falling into financial trouble. Recently, in depth counseling features have been added which provide greater budgeting guidance and offer a detailed review of the various programs and rate options available.

Additionally, new rules require loan applicants to undergo detailed financial assessments. The goal is to reduce current default rates that are roughly double the level of regular mortgages.

Market correction The market has changed regarding reverse mortgages for several different reasons.

People are becoming more educated about reverse mortgages and they are losing a lot of the stigma that had them previously labeled as “bad” loans geared towards taking advantage of elderly people.

Many older people are also finding themselves in a home that they aren’t ready to leave with a higher cost of living and a retirement income that just doesn’t meet their budgetary needs. For many people, their home is their largest asset and the need to meet daily living expenses is overriding their need to leave a home as a legacy to children that already have homes of their own.

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If you are over 62 and having a hard time making ends meet on social security, are looking for money to finance a home improvement, want to pay off your current mortgage or pay for healthcare expenses you might be considering a reverse mortgage.

How it works What is a reverse mortgage? With a “regular” mortgage you are required to make monthly payments to the lender. In a “reverse” mortgage, you receive money from the lender, and generally don’t have to pay it back for as long as you live in your home. The repayment of a reverse mortgage plus interest is triggered when you die, sell your home, or when your home is no longer your primary residence for a period greater than twelve months. The proceeds of a reverse mortgage are generally tax free, and there is no tax deduction for interest payments until the loan is paid off.

Interest rates on reverse mortgages are competitive with both fixed and adjustable rates available and closing costs are high but can be added into the amount of the loan.

Unlike regular mortgages, most reverse mortgages aren’t rewritten regularly so someone looking for a reverse mortgage should shop carefully and take the time to evaluate all loan options before signing.

The amount you can borrow with a reverse

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mortgage depends on several factors, including your age, type of mortgage selected, the appraised value of your home and the current interest rates.

Typically, you can expect to be able to borrow up to 55 to 60 percent and in some cases up to 75 percent of your home’s value with a reverse mortgage. You can also elect to receive the loan proceeds via fixed monthly cash advances for a specific time, for as long as you live in your home, a line of credit or in lump sums.

People with existing mortgages or equity loans may elect to draw a larger sum up front to pay off existing mortgages then elect a fixed amount each month or a line of credit to be drawn upon when the need arises. You can elect monthly payments and a line of credit. You can also change your payment option at any time for about $20.

You retain the title to your home, and you don’t have to make monthly payments. The loan must be repaid when the last surviving borrower dies, sells the home or no longer lives in the home as a principal residence.

Typically, a borrower can live in a nursing home or other medical facility for up to twelve consecutive months before the loan must be repaid. There are some things to be aware of when considering a reverse mortgage: The amount you owe on a reverse mortgage grows over time. Interest is charged on the outstanding balance and added to the amount owed. The amount of debt increases as loan funds are advanced and interest accrues.

Lenders generally charge origination fees, a mortgage insurance premium, servicing fees and other closing costs. Some of

these fees can be high so you should shop around to check rates.

Reverse mortgages reduce the equity in your home and leave fewer assets for you and your heirs. Most reverse mortgages have a “nonrecourse” clause, which prevents you or your estate from owing more than the value of your home when loan becomes due and the home is sold.

The bank cannot go after your heirs to pay your reverse mortgage, however, if you or your heirs want to retain the home the loan must be paid in full even if the loan balance is greater than the value of the home.

You retain title to your home and are responsible for property taxes, insurance, utilities, heating, repairs, and other expenses. Your loan may become payable if you fail to pay property taxes, homeowner’s insurance or maintain the condition of your home. However, some states, Massachusetts included, offers tax deferral programs for people that can’t afford their real estate taxes.

Who should consider a reverse mortgage In the last year a handful of my clients have contacted me for my opinion regarding their suitability for a reverse mortgage.

Most of these people are faced with the reality that secure pensions for most people don’t exist anymore and social security just doesn’t cover the difference.

They aren’t ready to leave their homes, but the home needs a roof or other repairs.

Some of them are married and dealing with a spouse’s illness. They are not prepared to make decisions about leaving their home in the immediate future. A few of them have looked into senior living facilities but find them expensive.

In a few situations, the death of a spouse can trigger the loss of financial security forcing the surviving spouse to make critical decisions at a time when they are emotionally bankrupt. A reverse mortgage may not be the best answer for every scenario, but it can provide some of these people with the gift of time.

Sometimes the best legacy you can give your heirs is your financial independence, and for many people a reverse mortgage might be the lifeline they need to make that happen.

Sherri M ahoney-Battles is an Enrolled Agent who specializes in income tax preparation for small businesses and individuals. Visit her website at www.taxingmatters.com, send an email to Sherilyn@taxingmatters.com or call 508-636-9829.

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E xtra! E xtra!

In brief…

Eliz abeth Morse Read

The holiday season and sweater weather are upon us! Find the time to enjoy the foliage, Halloween, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving with family, friends and neighbors. Snowstorms, Chanukah and Christmas are not far behind.

Daylight Saving ends November 2, so be prepared for cozy evenings and frosty mornings. Support your local community theatres, musical performances, holiday fairs, museums and cultural events – they’ll entertain you and your family indoors on those chilly days.

And don’t forget our veterans, our homeless, our neighbors these coming

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months. Let’s make sure that everyone can give thanks for living on the South Coast!

Regional Highlights…

“Attention, shoppers! Food fight on Aisle 3!!” Market Basket’s very public family feud/corporate meltdown over the summer months led to mass layoffs, supplier boycotts and dislocated customers, especially

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in the greater New Bedford and Raynham areas. The governors of both Massachusetts and New Hampshire tried to intervene, given the disastrous social and economic impact the supermarket chain’s implosion was having. Fortunately, just before Labor Day, the situation was resolved, when the ousted (and much-beloved) CEO Arthur T. Demoulas was reinstated and bought out his rivals. This unique drama will definitely be a case study for future MBA students, folks…

It’s official – Cape Wind has chosen New Bedford’s South Terminal as its hub for the country’s first offshore wind turbine project. Cape Wind also chose Fall River Electrical to be the electrical outfitter for the 130 wind turbines planned for Nantucket Sound.

Self-taught magician, University of Rhode Island grad and Newport resident Mat Franco, 26, won first prize – $1 million and a headlining Las Vegas show – at the “America’s Got Talent” season finale in September. He’s the first magician ever to win the “AGT” competition. Check out his winning card trick on YouTube.

Detours Ahead! Major road-and-infrastructure work is coming at Faunce Corner Road, Routes 6 and 195 in North Dartmouth, the Padanaram bridge in South Dartmouth, at the intersection of Routes 140 and 6 on the New Bedford/Dartmouth line and at the treacherous “Octopus” intersection downtown off the Fairhaven/ New Bedford bridge. (At least the construction work on the bridge should be done by then) Get ready for the 10th Annual Bioneers’ “Connecting for Change” conference in New Bedford October 24 and 25, sponsored by the Marion Institute. For info, call 508-748-0816 or visit www.marioninstitute.org.

Plan a group day-trip to see “The Christmas Carol” November 8 through December 31 or “Barefoot in the Park” November 13 through December 21 at Trinity Rep in Providence. Call 401-351-4243 or visit www.trinityrep.com.

Amaze your visiting relatives this Thanksgiving and plan a day-trip to Plymouth! Experience the Pilgrim past at Plimouth Plantation (www.plimouth.org or call 508-746-1622). Visit the Pilgrim Hall Museum (www.pilgrimhall.org or 508-746-1620), Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II while you’re there, too!

The Acushnet Senior Center will sponsor a trip to Foxwoods for the Temptations Tribute on November 19, as well as a multiday trip to Atlantic City at Resorts October 21 through 23. For more information call 508-998-0280. The Marion Council on Aging will host a day trip to Battleship Cove in Fall River on October 20 and to Lee’s Market and Partners Country Store in Westport on November 17. To learn more about these outings call 508-748-3570.

A $30 million, 120-bed behavioral health facility is under construction on Faunce Corner Road in North Dartmouth. It is expected to be completed by fall of 2015.

A joint venture of Southcoast Health and Acadia Healthcare, the new inpatient facility will provide psychiatric care and substance abuse treatment.

The City of New Bedford will switch over 10,000 street lamps to brighter, more energy-efficient LED lights, which will save the city more than $500,000 each year in electricity and maintenance costs. Dartmouth and Fairhaven have already made the switch.

Local architect Anthi Frangiadis will be hosting a series of events that are free and open to the public. An Afternoon Learning Series about Farrow & Ball products will take place every Tuesday from October 28 to December 2. The sessions run from 3:30 to 4:30pm. “The Anatomy of an Owl Stool,” a discussion led by Geoffrey Warner, furniture designer, is scheduled on November 6, at 5pm. Location: Drawing Room, 11 Spring St. in Marion. To learn more about the learning series, visit www. anthif.com/events.

Attleboro is to the Christmas season what Bristol is to the Fourth of July and what Plymouth is to Thanksgiving – find time to visit the 61st Annual Festival of Lights at LaSalette Shrine starting November 27. For dates and times, call 508-2225410 or visit www.lasalette-shrine.org.

Food! Feasts! Festivals!

Day-Trippin’…

Don’t miss the Holiday Fair on December 6 at Soule Homestead in Middleboro.

For details, call 508-947-6744 or visit www.soulehomestead.org.

CVS hopes to build a new store in Marion. The proposed development would require relocating the historic Captain Hadley House. Stay tuned…

Show up hungry to the 3rd Annual Newport Food Truck Festival on October 25 at the Newport Yachting Center. Go to www. foodtruckfestivalsofne.com or call 1-800745-3000 or 401-846-1600.

The Ocean Explorium’s programs and exhibits in downtown New Bedford will be moving to the Buttonwood Park Zoo over the next few months.

Experience pre-Industrial Age life at the Coggeshall Farm Museum in Bristol, rated the “Best Living-History” farm in Rhode Island by Yankee Magazine. Check out the Hearth Cooking Workshops every Sunday in November and December. To learn more, visit www.coggeshallfarm.org or call 401-253-9062.

If you’re 50 or older, check out the day trips sponsored by the New Bedford Senior Travel Program – there’s the Winnipesaukee Turkey Train October 15 and 20, “Say It with Music” in Sturbridge October 22, Wrentham Christmas Shopping November 12, the Temptations Tribute at Foxwoods November 19, the Cirque Dreams Holidaze December 8 at the Providence Performing Arts Center and Return of the Texas Tenors at Foxwoods December 11. A multi-day trip to Atlantic City and the Taj Mahal is planned for October 26 through 28. For details, call 508-991-6171.

Chow down at the Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival in Newport under the tents on October 18 and 19. Live music, free admission. Go to www.bowenswharf.com or call 401-849-2243.

Check out the Fall Newport Restaurant Week November 7 through 16. For details, call 401-845-9123 or go to www.discovernewportrestaurantweek.org.

There’s something for everyone at the multi-event “Old-Time Holiday Weekend” December 13 and 14 in Fairhaven. Call 508-979-4085 or visit www.fairhaventours@aol.com.

Groundwork, a co-working space for entrepreneurs and start-up companies, will open at The Quest Center in downtown New Bedford.

Restoration and upkeep for Battleship Cove got a big boost recently from a $10 million state grant spearheaded by state Sen. Michael Rodrigues.

Veteran TV talk show host Maury Povich is betting on the local labor force by opening “Mother Freedom,” a men’s clothing company, in a Belleville Avenue mill building in New Bedford.

Bizz Buzz

Baker Books of Dartmouth has closed its doors for good.

Crowell’s Fine Art and Framing in downtown New Bedford has closed its century-old shop and hopes to find another location nearby soon.

The new urgent care center at Wareham Crossing, operated by Southcoast Health Systems, opened for business in September.

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M agnolia Cajun Band at Sandywoods

Los Lobos at the N arrows Center

The Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River has a great line-up –– there’s The Tubes October 21, Los Lobos October 30, Renaissance November 2, Jonathan Edwards November 22, Roomful of Blues November 26, Quinn Sullivan November 28 and Savoy Brown December 13. For a complete schedule, visit www.narrowscenter.com or call 508-324-1926.

It’s all happenin’ at the Z! Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for a Halloween double header – the silent movie “The Phantom of the Opera” and a live performance of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” on October 31. Get The Led Out will perform November 8, the Martha Graham Dance Company November 15, Jimmy Tingle November 20, Darlene Love November 29. Plan ahead for the American Big Band’s “Home for the Holidays” December 7, “A Christmas Carol” December 13 and a Christmas Celtic Sojourn December 18. And don’t miss the New Bedford

Gourmet food supplier Sid Wainer & Son is planning a major expansion of its New Bedford headquarters, building a refrigerated facility in Mattapoisett, and has moved into supplying major outlets like BJ’s, Costco and Amazon.

Rehoboth’s Clean Energy Collective, a “community-owned” solar array, which will provide 1.43 kilowatt hours of electricity and a savings of $400,000 in annual electric bills, opened in August.

Ocean Spray Cranberries has been awarded a $200,000 grant by the US De-

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Wholesale Klezmer Band at Common Fence music

Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “A Thanksgiving Musical Feast” on November 30, or “Family Holiday Pops: Magical Moments” at the Z on December 20. Go to www.zeiterion.org, www.nbsymphony.org, or call 508-999-6276.

The South Coast Community Chorale will perform its Christmas Concert on November 30 with the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra at the Zeiterion in New Bedford; at Christ Church in Swansea on December 7; and at the Good Shepherd Parish in Fall River on December 14. For more info, go to www.sccchorale.com.

There’s always something happenin’ at Tiverton Four Corners – the Asylum Quartet will perform November 1. For details call 401-624-2600 or visit www.tivertonfourcorners.com. The Tiverton Four Corners Arts Center offers many free events.

Classical guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto with perform at the Meeting House October 17.

partment of Agriculture.

Do Your Part!

The City of Fall River has received a $94,000 federal grant to purchase muchneeded new public safety equipment.

Help the Salvation Army of New Bedford and Fall River by attending the 9th Annual Kickoff Dinner on October 18 at White’s of Westport. Contact Manuela Cimbron at ela@tetreaultinsurance.com or call 508995-8365.

The Gourmet and Gourmand Bakery in downtown Wareham has closed its doors.

The Big Value Plaza in Dartmouth will be receiving a major face-lift, as well as an opening of a BayCoast Bank branch office by early next year.

The Mattapoisett Chowder House has shuttered its doors.

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Reserve your place at the 5th Annual Soup Bowl Supper on November 8 at the Seaport Inn in Fairhaven. The benefit dinner will help out the Neediest Families Fund. Contact Amy Tolivaisa at

Sherman Lee Dillon at the Wamsutta Club

For details, go to www.fourcornersarts. org or call 401-624-2600.

If you’re a fan of Americana and roots music, check out the monthly Salon Concerts at the Wamsutta Club in New Bedford. There’s Sherman Lee Dillon and the Mississippi Sound November 12. For details, go to www.wamsuttaconcerts. com.

The Sandywoods Center for the Arts in Tiverton will present the Magnolia Cajun Band on November 1 and December 6, as well as Claude Bourbon October 17, Harpeth Rising October 24, Forever Young November 22 and Abbey Rhode November 29. For a complete schedule, go to www.sandywoodsmusic.com or call 401-241-7349.

Pianist Frederick Moyers will perform on November 8 in the “Arts in the Village” series at Goff Memorial Hall in Rehoboth. Don’t miss the annual Folk

508-979-4497 or at atolivaisa@s-t.com.

The Rev. Dr. Henry James of Memorial United Methodist Church in Taunton, and a native of Liberia, is spearheading a regional project to send much-needed medical help to West African countries suffering in the Ebola virus epidemic. He is coordinating with Trinity Methodist Church in Providence, and both churches are accepting donations of medical supplies and equipment.

Frederick Moyers 2 Dates -in Rehoboth and Westport

A sylum Quartet at T iverton Four Corners A rts Center

Art & Artisans Show there on November 14 and 15. And join the Sunday Night Jammers for free monthly dances. Call 508-252-3031 or visit www.carpentermuseum.org.

Holiday Pops: Magical Moments” at the Zeiterion on December 20. Go to www. nbsymphony.org or call 508-999-6276.

Listen to a Rhode Island Philharmonic performance of “Scheherazade!” on October 18 or “The Four Seasons” November 15 at The VETS. Call 401-2487000 or visit www.ri-philharmonic.org.

“Concerts at the Point” in Westport presents the South Coast Chamber Music Series on October 19, and Frederick Moyers and Jazz Trio on December 7. For details, visit www.concertsatthepoint.org or call 508-636-0698.

Don’t miss the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “Entrancing Showpieces” October 19 at St. Julie Billiart Church in North Dartmouth; “A Thanksgiving Musical Feast” at the Zeiterion on November 30; or “Family

“My Brother’s Keeper” of Easton and Dartmouth now services the Fall River area, and is looking for volunteers and gently-used residential furniture for families in need. Free pick-up. Call 774-305-4577 or visit www.MyBrothersKeeper.org.

Enjoy the bounty of South Coast farms – to find fresh local foods near you, visit www.semaponline.org, www.pickyourown.org , www.farmfresh.org or www. localharvest.org.

Head for Common Fence Music in Portsmouth for some down-home entertainment. There’s Seth Glier November 1, Rod Picott November 8, The Horn of Plenty Music and dinner November 22, and Red Eye Flight November 29. Plan ahead for the Wholesale Klezmer Band December 6 and the 21st Annual Winter Solstice Concert with Aine Minogue December 20. Call 401-683-5085 or visit www.commonfencemusic.org.

New Bedford’s St. Anthony of Padua Church has become a stunning venue for musical events. To find out what’s scheduled this holiday season go to www.saintanthonynewbedford.org or call 508-993-1691.

South Coast Stars Eleven-year old Alex Craig of Mattapoisett spearheaded a project to memorialize native son Milton Silveira, former chief engineer at NASA, who died last year at age 84. A plaque and bench dedicated to Silveira’s achievements is now on display at Ned’s Point.

Mattapoisett native Timothy Prefontaine, executive chef at the Fort Worth Club in Texas, won the “USA Chef of the

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Give your holiday guests the gift of a good night’s sleep.

Year” award at the American Culinary Federation’s national convention.

Marion’s Sippican Tennis Club won the 18 and Under New England Championship in August, and will compete in the National Championship.

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Corinna Raznikov of Marion was chosen as “Best Wedding Photographer” in Boston Magazine’s “Best of Boston” issue.

Fairhaven letter-carrier and Vietnam vet Gerry Payette was recently named the Southeastern Massachusetts Veteran of the Year by the Veterans Transition House. For 20 years, he’s coordinated the annual Letter Carrier Food Drive, and helped bring the Vietnam Moving Wall to Fairhaven as part of the town’s bicentennial celebration.

Michael DeSousa of Fall River received a very special award for his personal bravery in 2013, when he rushed into a burning apartment building to alert residents (in two languages! He received the state’s Madeline Amy Sweeney award for civilian bravery during 9/11 observances in Boston. The Sweeney award is named after the flight attendant aboard a doomed 9/11 airplane, who managed to contact ground control and provide critical information about the terrorist attack.

Robert Silveira, principal at Case Junior High School in Swansea, has been named Middle School Principal of the Year by the Massachusetts Secondary School Administrators Association.

The Great Outdoors Sign up for the Taunton River Fall Foliage Canoe Trip October 26 at the Lloyd Center for the Environment in Dartmouth!

Visit www.lloydcenter.org. or call 508-9900505.

Go on a Mother Nature’s Halloween Hike on October 25 at the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge in Seekonk. Call 401-949-5454 or visit www.asri.org.

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New Bedford High School senior Patricia Dias won the Congressional Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Competition for the 9th District for developing an app that tracks inventory.

N ov ember /D ecember 2014

Join in the Pell Bridge Run in Newport on October 26. Call 401-318-2991 or visit www.pellbridgerun.com.

On a Quiet Afternoon Sign up for the Holiday Gingerbread House Demonstration November 22 at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House in New Bedford.

For more info, call 508-997-1407 or visit www.rjdmuseum.org.

Meet your friends on Saturdays at the Oxford Book Haven and Café at the Church of the Good Shepherd in North Fairhaven.

Fresh soups and desserts, used books on sale, board games, WiFi. To learn more, visit www.goodshepherdfairhaven.com or call 508-992-2281.

If you’re a boat-lover, don’t miss the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol, home to the America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Learn more at www.herreshoff.org.

What could be better than live jazz and wine on a Saturday afternoon? Enjoy the Jazz Tastings at Greenvale Vineyards in Portsmouth through December 13. Call 401-847-3777 or visit www.greenvale.com.

Take the walking tour “Tales of the Slave Trade” at Linden Place in Bristol on October 18. For details, go to www.lindenplace. org or call 401-253-0390.

Fun for the Whole Family If you’ve never seen the “Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular” at the Roger Williams Park Zoo (5,000 professionally-carved pumpkins!) in Providence, catch it this year through November 2. And don’t miss “Spooky Zoo” on October 26 and 27. Visit www.rwpzoo.og or call 401-785-3510.

Take the kids on the “Train to Christmas Town” from Buzzards Bay to Hyannis starting November 28. Go to www.capetrain. com or call 888-797-7245.

Attend workshops on quilting, candlemaking or woodblock printing in November at Soule Homestead in Middleboro.

And don’t miss the Holiday Fair on December 6. For details, call 508-947-6744 or visit www.soulehomestead.org.

Enjoy FREE family fun and entertainment at AHA! Night in New Bedford. The November 11 theme is “Homecomings,” and the December 11 theme is “Made in New Bedford.” Go to www.ahanewbedford.org or call 508-996-8253.

Head for Edaville Railroad in Carver for

“Pumpkins Aglow” on the weekends in October. And, while you’re there, take the kids to Dinoland, the 20-acre animatronic dinosaur exhibit! “The Polar Express” and the Christmas Festival of Lights begin November 21. Call 508-866-8190 or visit www.edaville.com.

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Downtown New Bedford is the place to be as the holidays approach. There’s the “Halloween Treats Not Tricks” October 25, the Downtown Holiday Stroll December 6 and 7, the Santa Sightings Fun Run December 14 and the New Bedford Preservation Society’s Holiday House Tour December 13 and14. For a complete schedule of downtown events, visit www.downtownnb.org or call 508-990-2777.

All hands on deck at Fall River’s Battleship Cove! Free admission for veterans on Veterans Day, November 11. Observe Pearl Harbor Day and enjoy a Navy Christmas on December 7. Learn more at www.battleshipcove.org or call 508-678-1100.

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Stroll through the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford on a sunny day! For details, call 508-991-6178 or visit www. bpzoo.org. Or pack up the kids and spend an afternoon at the Whaling Museum -- go to www.whalingmuseum.org or call 508997-0046.

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All Wareham public school students will be offered free breakfast and lunch this year, thanks to a new federal program.

New Bedford and Fall River schools also offer this program. Meanwhile, school lunches will cost more this year for Dartmouth students.

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The Westport Library has hired an afterschool assistant who can offer homework help. (Plus, the Mattapoisett Library is now open on Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m.)

Newsweek magazine has ranked Bar-

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Continued from previous page rington High School as tops in Rhode Island and 200th of the 14,000 high schools ranked nationally.

Tours evenings throughout October. Call 401-484-8687 or go to www.providenceghosttour.com.

Footnotes

Woooo! Don’t miss the Zoo Boo Spooktacular at the Capron Park Zoo in Attleboro on October 24, or the Feasts for the Beasts November 8 & 22. Call 774-203-1840 or visit www.capronparkzoo.com.

Whoa! A late-night clandestine meeting with a young opposing councilman somehow involved a gun and the mayor of Fall River, Will Flanagan? A special prosecutor has been appointed to investigate. Stay tuned…

Hillary Clinton visited the Sam’s Club in Seekonk in late July on her book tour promoting her new memoir “Hard Choices.”

Two kayakers in the waters off Plymouth were uninjured, but very scared spitless, when a great white shark attacked their kayak in early September.

Once again, Wareham has been selected as a location for filming scenes for a Hollywood comedy film. Mark Wahlberg and the crew of “Ted 2” filmed scenes at the Tremont Mill Pond Diner back in August.

Adam Sandler and Steve Carell also used Wareham locations in previous movies.

Lights! Camera! Action! The Ocean Explorium in downtown New Bedford was used as a location by film crews of the upcoming movie “Good Kids.”

Don’t miss this year’s “Factory of Terror” in Fall River. For dates and times, call 508324-4077 or go to www.MAHauntedHouses.com. And walk past the Lizzie Borden House on Halloween – if you dare!

There are plenty of Halloween events and hauntings in Fairhaven this year!

Take the family to the annual “Horribles Parade” at Livesey Park. For more info, go to www.hauntedfairhaven.blogspot.com, www.fairhaventours@aol.com or call 508979-4085.

Stroll through “A Victorian Christmas” at the Fall River Historical Society starting the week before Thanksgiving. For dates and times, call 508-679-1071 or go to www.fallriverhistorical.org or www. lizzieborden.org.

Woohoo! Wade through Escobar Farm’s famous 8-acre corn maze in Portsmouth or enjoy Harry Potter Day or the Halloween Party. For dates and times, go to www.escobarshighlandfarm.com, www.cornfieldmaze.com or call 401-864-1064.

Events at Blithewold Gardens in Bristol are always special. “Christmas at Blithewold” begins November 28. Go to www. blithewold.org or call 401-253-2707.

Head for The Great Pumpkin Festival at Silverbrook Farm in Acushnet on October 25 and 26. A special family Halloween movie night will be held October 24. For more details, call 774-202-1027 or go to www.thesilverbrookfarm.com.

Don’t miss FLICKERS: the Rhode Island International Horror Film Festival October 20 through 26 at locations throughout Rhode Island. For details, go to www.filmfestival.org or call 401-861-4445.

Mwaahaha!! Go on the Providence Ghost

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T’is the season for haunted houses, corn mazes and hayrides! To find a harvest or Halloween event or activity near you, contact your town hall, a local farm/orchard, or visit www.MAHauntedHouses.com, www.RIHauntedHouses.com or www. pumpkinpatchesandmore.org .

Go on a Mother Nature’s Halloween Hike on October 25 at the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge in Seekonk. Call 401-949-5454 or visit www.asri.org.

Make your own scarecrow and enjoy “Pumpkin Palooza!” on the weekends at Frerich’s Farm in Warren. Call 401-2458245 or visit www.pumpkinpatchesandmore.org.

Be amazed by Waterfire in downtown Providence on October 25, November 8 and 29. For info, visit www.waterfire.org.

Take a walk through “Christmas at the Newport Mansions” starting November 22. Call 401-847-1000 or go to www.newportmansions.org.

Boo! Check out the Ghoulie Manor Haunted House at the Galleria Mall in Taunton on selected dates in October. Go to www.MAHauntedHouses.com or www. ghouliemanor.com.

Don’t miss the Unscary Halloween Party on October 25 at Soule Homestead in Middleboro. For details, call 508-9476744 or visit www.soulehomestead.org.

Check out the Mad Scientist Halloween Romp at the Children’s Museum in Easton on October 26. For info, call 508-230-3789 or visit www.childrensmuseumineaston. org.

A Sight to Behold

or go to www.fourtownfarm.com.

@Trinity Rep

Don’t miss the Lakeville Haunted House, Fridays and Saturdays in October.

Call 508-923-0053 or visit www.lakevillewhauntedhouse.com or www.MAHauntedHouses.com.

Pick your own pumpkins and raspberries, run through mini-corm mazes at Four Town Farm in Seekonk! Call 508-336-5587

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@PPAC

All the World’s a Stage Enjoy a performance of “The Nutcracker” at Rosecliff Manor in Newport, performed by the Island Moving Co. November 28- 30, December 2-5. Visit www. islandmovingco.org.

Theatre’s performance of “Done to Death” on October 17 and 24, or “The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge” on weekends during December. For details, visit www.attleborocommunitytheatre.com.

Festival Ballet Providence will perform “The Nutcracker” December 19-21 at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Go to www.festivalballet.com, www.ppac.org or call 401-353-1129.

Rhode Island College has a full schedule of arts events. There’s the cabaret “Laurel Canyon Folkies” October 27, and opera “Diva Triple Play” October 29, Tomas Kubinek Certified Lunatic November 5, the Muir String Quartet November 17, and A Seraphic Fire Christmas December 3. For a complete schedule, visit www.ric.edu/pfa or call 401-456-8144.

Head for the Providence Performing Arts Center to see “Cinderella” through October 18, The Best of Jethro Tull October 29, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” November 4 through 9, “Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival” November 16, Trace Adkins November 21, “Camelot” December 9 through 14 – and much more! Call 401-421-2787 or go to www.ppacri.org.

Fall River’s Little Theatre will present “Les Miserables” October 16 through 18, and “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical” December 4 through 7 and 11 through 14. For details, visit www. littletheatre.net or call 508-675-1852.

Plan a group day-trip to see “The Christmas Carol” November 8 through December 31 or “Barefoot in the Park” November 13 through December 21 at Trinity Rep in Providence. Call 401-351-4243 or visit www.trinityrep.com.

Don’t miss the Attleboro Community

“Harris Cashes Out” will play through October 26 at the Newport Playhouse.

Enjoy a performance of “Brighton Beach Memoirs” October 30 through November 23. Go to www.newportplayhouse.com or call 401-848-7529.

Your Theatre in New Bedford will perform “Postmortem” November 13 through 23. For more info, go to www.yourtheatre. org or call 508-993-0772.

Head for 2nd Story Theatre in Warren! “Enron” plays through November 2, “Eleemosynary” plays October 24 through November 23. For details, call 401-2474200 or go to www.2ndstorytheatre.com.

@Island Moving Company

@Trinity Rep

@RI College

@2nd Story Theatre

@Little Theatre

@Your Theatre

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good times

The good ol’ days Every so often, I think like an old person. Not because I am old. Heck, I’m only 60, going on 12. But because every passion I have, everything I love doing, every Paul K andarian thought I have, I discovered on my own, not from a computer or cell phone or anything else that spits out things I “need” to discover.

And it puts me in the mood for an oldman rant that starts with, “Back in my day…” Like this: We didn’t have Facebook.

We had face-to-face look. We didn’t have Twitter. We had Twizzlers, which we ate while playing, you know, outside. And they were great, especially covered in dirt.

We didn’t have Instagram. We had Gram or Grammy or Grandma, and they were pretty picture perfect. We didn’t have LinkedIn. We were linked in to our friends, with whom, of course, we had daily face-to-face encounters. We didn’t have Pinterest. We had just plain interests, stuff we found on our own. Usually outside.

We didn’t have Tumblr. We tumbled down hills. We didn’t have the Internet.

We had intramural sports. We didn’t have Snopes, where rumors are dispelled or proven. We had to snoop around ourselves to find out.

We didn’t have Kickstarter to get money from strangers. We didn’t get money from strangers, we got it from our parents and jobs and had to work for it. We didn’t have weather on a computer screen to tell us what to expect. We had weather outside the window to tell us what we had.

We didn’t have F***mylife, which I swear

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exists, a site where thousands share their horrible existences. We just had our own f***ed-up lives which if we were smart, we kept to ourselves or trusted telling people we actually knew and trusted. We didn’t have Google to find things. We had to go to the library to find them. We didn’t have Yahoo. We were yahoos.

We didn’t have Facebook. We had face-to-face look. We didn’t have Twitter.

We had Twizzlers, which we ate while playing outside.

We didn’t have YouTube. We had the Boob Tube, which TV was called, and black-andwhite at that with maybe three stations, which our parents were pretty strict about us watching. We didn’t have Amazon to buy things from. We had Amazon women to fantasize about (OK, some of us).

We didn’t have People of Walmart, a site you go to make fun of really weird people.

We had family for that. We didn’t have Sirius or Pandora or other places for 24hour music. We had LPs and eight-tracks and barring that, perfect music we made up in our own heads or bad music on the beat-up guitar we were lucky to have.

We didn’t have Moviefone to decide what

N ov ember /D ecember 2014

to see by the click of a button. We had movies we decided to see by the turning of an actual paper page. We didn’t have Netflix. We had flicks we had to leave the house to see. We didn’t have things going viral. We had viruses.

We didn’t have WebMD. We had doctors who made house calls. We didn’t have Wikipedia. We had encyclopedias. Which, much to the chagrin of parents who paid a lot of money for them, would usually gather dust. We didn’t have Apples or Macs. We had apples, some of them macs, and we’d ingest them, they didn’t ingest us.

We didn’t have fat bodies from playing virtual games. We had slim bodies from playing real ones. We didn’t have iPhones or iPads or iPods or iClouds or iAnything.

We just had I. Us. We. A collective of youth who didn’t rely on a glowing screen to tell us what to think, where to go, when to do it, how to feel, who to follow, or why we should.

I’m not saying all that stuff is bad. I use a lot of it myself, makes my life easier, and I guess that’s just fine. If you’re not reading this in print, you may be reading it on one of them (feel free to “share” this, by the way, which way back meant giving your buddies some of your dirty Twizzlers).

But I come from a time when all that stuff wasn’t even a pipe dream.

Which entitles me to the nostalgic rant of a 60-year-old man. Going on 12. Who’s pretty glad 12 was much different then than it is now.

Paul Kandarian is a lifelong area resident and has been a professional writer since 1982, as columnist, contributor in national magazines, websites and other publications.

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Whimisical & Unique Gifts Partners Village Store and Kitchen 865 Main Road ~ Westport, MA 508-636-2572 ~ Daily 9:30 - 5:00 www.partnersvillagestore.com follow us on Facebook & Twitter

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YOU THINK IT’S LATE TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR MORTGAGE?

THINK AGAIN!

We offer rates as low as 2.875%* for 10 Yr Term 0 Points 2.625%* for 10 Yr Term 1 Point

TIME FOR ACTION IS NOW! *APR – Annual Percentage Rate. 10yr, 0 pts, cost per thousand $9.60, APR 2.928%.

10yr, 1 pt, cost per thousand $9.48, APR 2.877%.

Connecting all offices 508-678-9028 www.frmcu.com NMLS ID#: 410816

Retired dancing queen seeks passionate helper for tasks around the house.

It takes a special person to become a Home Instead CAREGiver SM.Your passion and dedication to work with seniors can be challenging but, at the same time, tremendously rewarding. Enjoy training, support, flexible shifts that fit your life and a job that nurtures your soul.

• No medical degree necessary • Training and support provided • Flexible shifts Find out more at 508.984.7908 HomeInstead.com/673/becomeacaregiver

Each Home Instead Senior Care® office is independently owned and operated. © 2014 Home Instead, Inc.

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More experts.

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For more visit southcoast.org

Clifton

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Because you deserve it!

Assisted Living Accommodations start at only $2850 per month.......

Imagine, living in a beautiful New England country inn that overlooks scenic Mount Hope Bay. Discover a carefree senior lifestyle that provides a wonderful new feeling of comfort and security. Contrary to living alone in a large oversized house, especially when assistance is needed, the “Inn” at Clifton can be significantly less worrisome and less expensive. At the “Inn” we have no typical apartments—each one is different and prices do vary according to apartment size, location and specific features.

When compared to other assisted living communities, the “Inn” offers so much more. Clifton’s almost all-inclusive rates consist of amenities that many other facilities charge extra for, including.......  Three delicious Meals Daily  Personal Care Services  Green House  Medication Management  Scheduled Transportation  Walking Paths  Step-In Showers  24-hour CNA Staffing  Emergency Monitoring Systems  Library with Fireplace

 Daily Activities  Registered Nurses to monitor your health and well-being  Garden & Water Views  Walk-In Closets  Housekeeping and Laundry Services  Fitness Area  Non-Denominational Chapel  Whirl Pool Spa  And Much, Much More…

You have choices in retirement, make the “Inn” at Clifton one of them. We encourage you to call Diane, make an appointment and learn more about the advantages of our unique Clifton Healthcare Campus.......and compare.

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444 WILBUR AVENUE, SOMERSET, MA 02725  508-324-0200 