The South Coast Insider - December 2011 by Coastal Communications Corp.

the south coast December 2011 / Vol. 15 / No. 12

coastalmags.com

A stellar season

Santa’s secrets Green gifts New traditions

HOLIDAY HELPERS Season’s eatings Grammy’s cranberry nut bread Gifts from the kitchen Uncork a special gift

Shop locally South Coast music Local eats & treats

DATELINES

and more

The Bath Cove 145 Faunce Corner Road North Dartmouth, MA 02747 (508) 997-5466

Treshamâ&#x201E;˘ Tresham gives a subtle twist to the tradition of classic Americana by introducing a modern eclectic sensibility to the designs. Endlessly playful, yet elegant, Tresham furniture, sinks, toilet and receptors invite you to live your life--with a twist. Visit our KOHLERÂŽ showroom to experience the new Tresham collection.

305R Oliphant Lane Middletown, RI 02842 (401) 846-8680 www.thebathcove.com

“Ed Moniz helped double our business growth.” Charles Saliby of Guimond Farms speaking about Ed Moniz, Business Development Specialist at St. Anne’s Credit Union “When I met Ed Moniz for the first time, I knew from the start his goal was the same as mine: to help our business grow,” says Charles Saliby, owner of Guimond Farms in Fall River. “He demonstrated his ability to perform within a short time.” In fact, with Ed’s help and support, Charles says he was able to double the growth of his business in just five years. “We were so impressed, we recommended Ed to our family and friends who own businesses.”

Photo on left: Westport Market owner

Rabih Salibi and St. Anne’s Senior Business Development Specialist, Ed Moniz. Photo on right: Ed Moniz and Guimond Farms owner Charles Saliby, with staff Sami Saliby, Nouhad Saliby, Nicole Saliby and cashier/employee Heather Moniz.

“I’m confident that Ed’s knowledge and professionalism will help any business achieve their growth goals,” says Charles’ cousin Rabih Salibi, owner of Westport Market in Westport. Own a local business? Charles and Rabih have this advice: “Give Ed a chance and he’ll prove himself to be the best in the business.”

Ready for a local banker who knows how to make things happen for your business? Call Ed Moniz today at (508) 542-7949.

“We’re making a difference.” Dartmouth • Fall River • Fairhaven New Bedford • Somerset • Swansea

Federally insured by NCUA St. Anne’s Credit Union NMLS #: 525435

www.stannes.com

MAKE A WISH LIST BY DECEMBER 17 AND BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN A $500 GIFT CERTIFICATE!

FINE JEWELERS SINCE 1905

SHE DESERVES AN ENCORE. For the smiles she brings and the tears she’s dried, for her time, her love, and her encouraging cries, honor her with an Encore. As she celebrates each of life’s precious moments, and the birthdays of those she holds dear, she adds a stone, and her Encore jewelry grows ever more dazzling.

207 SWANSEA MALL DR, SUITE 160 • SWANSEA CROSSING PLAZA, SWANSEA MA • INFO@PLANTEJEWELERS.COM • 508-673-0561 • WWW.PLANTEJEWELERS.COM

Just One More Reason to put

LASIK on your Christmas List this Year! *LIMITED TIME OFFER* Take advantage of our

LOWEST PRICES EVER

on Laser Vision Correction! Mention the “Santa Saver” to receive up to $500 off a complete Custom LASIK Procedure. Discount may vary based on procedure. Must be scheduled by Dec.31,2011. Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts.

Call the LASIK Line at (508)999-3150 to schedule your Complimentary Evaluation or visit us at www.eyehealthvision.com

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It pays to be

While others may charge fees for your debit card usage, our Active Checking actually rewards you instead. No added fees. Just added benefits. If you regularly swipe your debit card for all those daily purchases, you can qualify for higher interest rates, nationwide ATM refunds up to $25 per qualification period, and free online banking and bill pay.

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• Free debit card. • Free online banking & bill pay. • Free eStatements. • ATM fees refunded up to $25 per qualification period.

Member FDIC Member DIF

www.CitizensUnionBank.com • 508-678-7641 (Connecting all offices) SERVING THE SOUTH COAST REGION

The Annual Percentage Yields (APY) are accurate as of 10/15/2011 and are subject to change without notice. The minimum deposit to open the account is $500. 2.22% APY is paid on balances between $0.01 and $25,000 and .75% APY is paid on all amounts above $25,000 each qualification period the minimum qualifications are met. If the minimum qualifications are not met during the qualification period, 0.10% APY will be paid on the entire balance. All foreign (non Citizens~Union) ATM fees are waived and ATM surcharges are refunded up to $25 per qualification period if the minimum qualifications are met. Whether or not the qualifications are met, there is no monthly service charge. Please refer to the Qualification Calendar on www.citizensunionbank.com for additional information. Available for personal accounts only.

HAWTHORN MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

Look rested during the holiday rush... SERVICES: Facelift Brow/Forehead Lift Eyelid Surgery Nose Surgery Ear Reshaping Scar Revision Liposuction Implants Lip Enhancement Hair Restoration Skin Resurfacing Botox®/Dysport® Dermal Fillers Obagi Skin Care

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While everyone rushes with holiday preparations, you can look younger and more rested. Dermal fillers are a popular way to reduce or eliminate wrinkles, raise scar depressions, enhance lips and replace soft tissue volume loss.There is little “down time” with fillers so you’ll be ready for the holidays. Come in to discuss what Dr. Brys can do for you.

Call 508-996-3991 to schedule a consultation. Agata K. Brys, MD

H ol iday S pe cia l s Discounts available on the most popular dermal fillers including Radiesse, Restylane and Sculptra for teatments before December 31, 2011.

Find out more at www.drbrys.com

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535 Faunce Corner Road | Dartmouth 508-996-3991

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Put Chamilia on the top of your list.

Chamilia Special Event December 13-24.Call for details…

Hand knit 100% wool chunky sweater and scarf — Extended holiday hours —

167 Borden Street • Fall River, MA • 508.676.7169 Hours: Tue. & Sat. 10-3, Wed. thru Fri. 10-6 www.JJJewelry.com

Partners Village Store

Great gifts that leave some jingle in your pockets!

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND The Three Gifts Candle: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh Essential oils of Frankincense, Balsam and Myrrh combine to make a fragrance that is rich with memories of Christmas. — Available in 4 different sizes $4.50-$21.00 —

“We Three Orcas” by Crane Creek

Santa’s best kept secret. Gifts Books Café Cards Toys Jewelry Specialty Foods

227 Thames Street a Bristol, RI 401.396.9806 a revivalbristolri.com

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865 Main Road, Westport, MA T: 508-636-2572 F: 508-636-2529 www.partnersvillagestore.com Follow us on Facebook

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December 9, 10 & 11 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Benoit Square Lighting and Caroling

Annual Christmas Concert

Benoit Square Main and Adams Streets, 6:30 p.m.

Church of the Good Shepherd, 357 Main Street, 7:00 p.m.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10

Rogers School Pancake Breakfast Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crafts & Book Fair

Rogers School, 100 Pleasant St., 9 a.m. to Noon

Holiday Marketplace Craft booths & more Unitarian Church, 102 Green St., 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Unitarian Church Tours

Unitarian Church, 102 Green St. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Open House: Manjiro-Whitfield Friendship House 6 Cherry St., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Holiday Soup & Sandwich Luncheon

Town Hall Shops

Harrop Center, Center St., 11 a.m. -1:30 p.m.

Booths by non-profit groups Town Hall, 40 Center St., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Lobster Roll Luncheon

Brick Church Fair Craft booths, baked goods, thrift shop & more Congregational Church, 34 Center St., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Congregational Church, 34 Center St., 11:00 a.m.

Cookies & Cocoa with Santa Cookies & cocoa, raffles, wreaths, baked goods Council on Aging, 229 Huttleston Ave., 11-3

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

Old-Time Christmas Carol Sing

Service of Lessons and Carols

Trinity Lutheran Church, 16 Temple Pl., 1:00 p.m. Unitarian Memorial Church, 102 Green St., 4:00 p.m. The Old-Time Holiday Weekend is sponsored by Fairhaven non-profit and church groups and is coordinated by the Fairhaven Office of Tourism. Complete program listings are available from http://FairhavenEvents.blogspot.com. For more information, contact the Fairhaven Office of Tourism, 43 Center Street, Fairhaven, telephone 508-979-4085, email FairhavenTours@aol.com. Visitors Center hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

DECEMBER 2011

Contents In Every Issue

4 8

From the Publisher

On My Mind: A Kardashian Christmas?

Dateline South Coast

Dear Santa

By Stephanie Afonso Blanchard

28 Break the Chains

Wine NOTES

36 Wine Gifts

By Paul Letendre

By Alton Long

Happenings: Ongoing Events

FOOD NOTES Visit CoastalMags.com for more things to do.

30 Kitchen Creations

by Melissa Tavares

Grammyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cranberry Nut Bread By Andrea Gilbert

By Joyce Rowley

MUSICAL SOUTH COAST

Pick a Nutcracker

44 Holiday Sounds

By Stacie Charbonneau Hess

By David M. Prentiss

BUSiNESS BUZZ

By Charlie Harrington

22 Mobile Gifts

by The Celtic Cricket

20 Traditions Can Change

24 Shop Locally

By Joyce Rowley

by Elizabeth Morse Read

COVER STORY

26 A Green Gift Guide

by Paul E. Kandarian

46 Tarot-Scopes

THINGS TO DO

40 Book Picks by Baker Books

GREEN SOUTH COAST

34 South Coast Struggling

By Stephen C. Smith

By Kevin Cardin

38 Health Care Crisis

by Jay Pateakos

ON THE COVER The Fall River Historical Society is one of the stars of the local holiday season. See page 21 to read about how the Grand Dame of Rock Street is all decked out for the season. The South Coast Insider / December 2011

FROM THE PUBLISHER December 2011 / Vol. 15 / No. 12 Published by Coastal Communications Corp. Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Ljiljana Vasiljevic

What is it about a star that’s so special? Children want

Editors Joe Murphy Michael J. Vieira, Ph.D.

them on their homework, and we all want one on Hollywood Boulevard. Sailors used them to find their way home and three wise men followed one to find a King.

Contributors Stephanie Afonso Blancard, Kevin Cardin, The Celtic Cricket, Stacie Charbonneau Hess, Andrea Gilbert, Charlie Harrington, Paul E. Kandarian, Paul Letendre, Alton Long, Tom Lopes, Jay Pateakos, David M. Prentiss, Elizabeth Morse Read, Joyce Rowley, Stephen C. Smith, and Melissa Tavares The South Coast Insider is published monthly for visitors and residents of the South Coast area. The Insider is distributed free of charge from Mount Hope Bay to Buzzards Bay. All contents copyright ©2011 Coastal Communications Corp.

Deadline 20 days prior to publication. 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.

For us at The South Coast Insider, stars signal the season of giving, so we offer you some tips from Joyce Rowley’s Green Gift Guide and Al Long’s advice on how to share wines with your friends and family. Plus, there are great gifts to make in your kitchen, thanks to Melissa Tavares and Andrea Gilbert. Want music? David M. Prentiss shines the spotlight on local holiday music and Stacie Charbonneau Hess provides a guide to local Nutcrackers. Looking for a special South Coast season? Shop locally with Stephanie Afonso Blanchard and skip the restaurant chains in favor of regional dining. Paul Letendre points the way. As always, for brand new listings, business updates, news from South Coast communities, and things to do, go to our website at www.coastalmags.com. I hope you enjoy our gift to you, and we’ll see you in 2012! Health and Happiness,

Circulation 30,000 Subscriptions $25 per year

Address The South Coast Insider 144 Purchase Street • PO Box 3493 Fall River, MA 02722

Ljiljana Vasiljevic Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Tel: (508) 677-3000 Fax: (508) 677-3003

Website http://www.coastalmags.com

E-mail editor@coastalmags.com Our advertisers make this publication possible–please support them

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

facebook.com/thesouthcoastinsider

es a great

Friday, March 23, 2012 Christmas gift! 7:30pm -9:30pm Country Club of New Bedford

A585lzheimer ’s MABenefit Slocum Road, Dartmouth, fundrAiser

November 25th – January 1st

Christmas at blithewold Join us as we celebrate the Gifts of Nature

Anastassia Grace is a Spirit Medium. Known for her exceptional accuracy and compassion for others, Anastassia has been delivering messages from Heaven since a young age. Having this gift runs through generations of her family, she is the niece of nationally renowned medium Maureen Hancock. Anastassia is featured monthly on several radio stations, including Fun 107, and has been featured on national television. Recognizing that love & life are truly eternal, Anastassia strives to pass along the message of hope, providing powerful validations that our loved ones are still with us in Spirit, always.

featuring Mediums Anastassia Grace & Candace Dalton

Mansion Open Tuesday – Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Grounds Open Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Makes a great

Friday, March 23, 2012 Christmas gift! 7:30pm -9:30pm Country Club of New Bedford Even as a young child, Candace Dalton believed in after life. For as long as she can remember, Candace has had an awareness of things before they happened, including details and messages from the other side. When she was 14 years old, her cousin Sean Ewas passed unexpectedly. After his passing, her ability to communicate with the other side grew stronger. Candace’s aunt, Maureen Hancock, nationally renowned Medium has helped her discover, develop, and channel her gift. She has learned that this gift gives others a sense of hope and faith with her light, funny, and amazingly accurate validations to deliver messages to those suffering loss and to help them remember that faith is key.

Afternoon Teas Tuesdays – Fridays 1:30 & 3 p.m.

585 Slocum Road, Dartmouth, MA

Children’s Story Time Wednesdays at 4 p.m.

Sponsored by

Musical Performances Thursdays & Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. Sundays at 3 p.m.

For a complete schedule of events visit www.blithewold.org Adults $10, AAA Members $9 Seniors/Full-time Students $8 Youths 6 –17 years $2 Children 5 and under and Members are free

101 ferry road (rt. 114) bristol, ri, 02809

From Ireland hand-knit sweaters

Tickets are $40.00 each. Contact our office at 508.994.5200 or Maria Lawton at 508.717.2754 for more information. Donations are also accepted if you are unable to attend but would still like to show your support for this great cause. Proceeds to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association MA/NH Chapter-Research for a Cure.

158 President Avenue • Fall River, MA

508-678-4096 www.irishspecialtyshoppe.com

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

Santa at the Zoo Doughnuts with Santa

Saturdays, December 3, 10, & 17 • 9:00am

Zoo Members: $6/person • Non-members: $9/person • Children Under 1 are Free

Milk and Cookies with Santa

December 3-4, 10-11, & 17-18 • 1:00pm & 3:00pm Mondays, December 5, 12, & 19 • 12:30pm

Zoo Members: $6/person • Non-members: $9/person • Children Under 1 are Free

C hristm as at

New Boston Bakery

Pastry made the old-fashioned way…from scratch Pastry Gift Baskets v Sandwiches v Salads Platters v Unique Gifts Take time out of your busy holiday schedule to have a coffee or lunch with family and friends in our enchanted four season room

Monday-Friday 7am-5pm Gift C ertificates Available

508-672-0207

Participants must pre-register and pre-pay for these programs by visiting www.bpzoo.org or by calling (508) 991-4556 x 18. Professional photos will not be provided at these events. We invite you to bring your own camera if you wish to take a photo with Santa.

Private Holiday Parties Now available for evening Holiday Parties! Corporate or family! We provide the room and holiday decorations, cookies, milk, and cocoa. You provide the folks and fun! Santa and unlimited carousel and/or train rides are available upon request. Please call (508)991-4556 x 15 for more information about private holiday parties and available dates.

Call and reserve your party today!

279 New Boston Road v Fall River, MA

www.NewBostonBakery.com

Unique source for holiday gift items at surprisingly affordable prices! Books • Candy • Home Accessories • Fashion Accessories Including jewelry, handbags and scarves Items of Local Interest Visit our Candy Department for the largest selection of nostalgic treats in the area!

Clearance and sale items excluded • Can not be combined with any other offer.

Monday-Friday 9a.m. to 4 p.m. Weekend hours(from Nov. 20 to Dec. 30) Saturday & Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

451 Rock Street Fall River, MA corner of Maple Street (508) 679-1071 ext. 105

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

425 Hawthorn St. • New Bedford, MA • (508) 991-4556 • www.bpzoo.org

12.16

FALL RIVER YMCA

12.17 Pancake Breakfast with Santa | 9 am - 12:30 pm

GLEASON FAMILY YMCA | Wareham

MATTAPOISETT YMCA

DECEMBER 18 – 11am-4pm Trunk Show – Meet Alan Clancy of Tara’s Diary

12.15 Annual Christmas Tree Lighting | 6 - 7 pm

Frerichs Farm & Greenhouses

YMCA SOUTHCOAST ymcasouthcoast.org

WAREHAM

www.TheCladdaghConnection.com

Visit our website at ymcasouthcoast.org or contact the branch for event times, pricing and other important information.

508.295.9622

— OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK — 20 Commerce Way v Seekonk, MA 800-550-2724 v 508-336-6500

508.997.0734

Zumba-thon | 6:30-8:30 pm Flick N’ Float | 7 - 9 pm Middle School Dance | 7 - 10 pm Breakfast & Photos with Santa | 9 - 11 am

NEW BEDFORD

12.2 12.2 12.10 12.10

DECEMBER 4 – 12-6pm John Christopher and Fado Event Meet designer John Christopher Condron, owner of John Christopher Designs and Fado Jewelers

Kids Winter Bash | 6 - 9 pm

508.758.4203

— visit our events —

DARTMOUTH YMCA

MATTAPOISETT

Visit our website and Facebook page

December 2011

FALL RIVER

The Claddagh Connection will be featuring special sales throughout the holiday season

DARTMOUTH

NEW LOCATION

508.993.3361 508.675.7841

Special Eve n ts

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Holiday Headquarters Thanksgiving weekend November 25-27

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& Greenhouses

(401) 245-8245 43 Kinnicutt Ave. / Warren, RI FrerichsFarm.com Open Tues. - Sun., 9 - 5

Distributed by Clean Nation Distribution Services, Inc.

P.O. Box 8136, Cranston, RI 02920

(866) 720-4999

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

ON MY MIND

Why all Kardashian? by Paul Kandarian

Dear Santa: Hey big fella, Merry Christmas and all that, hope you’re doing well. Been awhile since I’ve written to ask you for anything, mostly because you’ve never come through. But that’s OK, I usually don’t need much. I do now, St. Nick, and this time it’s important. You see, I’m asking you to make sure no one in the world ever makes the mistake again of confusing me with the Kardashians. I mean really, you’d think it wouldn’t be that hard, right? Well, for people who can actually read anyway. I mean, come on. Kandarian. Kardashian. They’re not that similar. First couple letters. Last three letters. I have an A - R in mine, they don’t. They have an S and an H. I don’t! I could see the problem if it were a Smith-Smythe situation. But it’s not. You see, Santa, as you know since you power travel every inch of the world in just one night, my name is Armenian. So is their name. Both names end in “ian,” as do most Armenian names. But that’s where the similarity ends. That’s it. There’s nothing else similar about us. I cannot state that emphatically enough. I have nothing—I repeat, nothing in common with…those people. I’m really sorry to be so harsh about this Santa, but over the last couple months, there has been a lot in the news about one of the Kardashians and her apparently ill-fated, 72-day marriage and people would hear my name, laugh and say “You any relation to the Kardashians?” in a process that clearly involves whatever brain cells 8

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

they do have in their heads instantly fleeing that location and forcing words of an inestimably stupid nature to escape their lips in a vain attempt to be humorous. I mean, really. It’s at the point when someone mistakes me for a Kardashian, I have to resist the urge to pick up the nearest heavy object and club them into the next lifetime. But it’s not easy. So if you could also give me the gift of a bit more patience, particularly as this Kardashian person’s divorce continues to unmercifully play out before a rapt American public, I’d be much obliged. Here’s the thing, Santa. I don’t care about anything the Kardashians do, have done or will do. And this is solely because I know nothing—and I mean nothing—about anything to do with the Kardashians. If anything remotely Kardashian pops up on the TV, which is disturbingly any time the TV is on, I change it, look the other way or run screaming from the room covering my ears in an attempt to block out unintended intrusion into a brain already clogged with more than enough useless information, thank you very much. There’s no need to cram it fuller still with anything the Kardashians are doing. I mean seriously, what is their claim to fame? I think one of them married Bruce Jenner. Him I remember. And admire. At least for his Olympic prowess, if not his taste in women. But that’s all. I don’t know who the Kardashian clan is, what their dubious hold on the American psyche may be, why the

hell they’re on TV so much. The sheer depth of what I do not know about the Kardashians is astounding. This is one case where I’m quite proud of my ignorance. Seriously, if I were a contestant on an episode of “Jeopardy” in which every single category was devoted to the Kardashians, I would stand there dumbstruck, buzzer in hand, a thoroughly confused look on my face. Sort of like any Kardashian. I know there’s a bunch of them, right? Four? Five? More? And all are involved in leading lives they apparently think the world cares about? And which, even more sadly, the world does seem to care about? Where do they come from? Are they like the Baldwin brood, they keep spitting out siblings into the public consciousness? And I don’t say this to demean the Baldwins. At least the oldest brother is talented. I honestly don’t get celebrity obsession, and believe me, why the Kardashians qualify as “celebrities” is beyond me. How does this happen? Who creates this, for lack of a better term, star status? Us? Them? The media? f we didn’t care, would the media report on it? If they didn’t report on it would we care? Do celebrities pay people to make this happen and then pretend to hate it when it does? If not

for all this celebrity obsession, would the time slots devoted to schlock shows like Entertainment Tonight and Access Hollywood be taken up with, heaven forbid, those dispensing worthwhile information? I’m so confused, my head hurts. I know this isn’t new, Santa, celebrity worship has been around forever, it’s just worse in modern times when it’s right there, in your face, 24/7/365. There’s no escape. Turn on the TV, pick up a magazine, power up your iPad, boom, there’s people like Linsday Lohan all over the place, another one whose claim to fame totally escapes me. I mean who the hell is she, besides a druggie and part-time morgue worker? Or Jessica Simpson, who, I swear, those idiotic entertainment shows were turning to on what it’s like to be going through what the Kardashians are going through. How far have we fallen when Jessica Simpson is an expert on anything? So anyway, Santa, see what you can do, I’d appreciate it. If you can get people to stop confusing me with the Kardashians, I would be so in your debt. And if you can’t, can you maybe switch it out with Dr. Kevorkian? Believe me, being associated with Dr. Death would be way better than this. Thanks, big man. Yours truly, Paul the UnKardashian.

Give the Gift of Dance Gift CertificateS Available

Lighthouse Promotions New Year’s Day

Antiques

Show & Sale Sunday, January 1, 2012 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Venus de Milo Restaurant Route 6 - Swansea, Mass. — Upcoming Shows — Patriot’s Day, Monday, April 16, 2012 Early buyer’s preview – 10 A.M. $10.00 each Admission $6.00 each With this ad, admit 2 at $5.00 each

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

DATELINE: SOUTH COAST

News, views and trends... from Mount Hope Bay to Buzzards Bay by Elizabeth Morse Read

Across the region n Things are looking up, in spite of the colder weather. The Massachusetts unemployment rate has dropped to 7.3%, almost two points lower than the national average; the state has earned the highest-in-the-nation ranking for energy efficiency initiatives and performance, which bodes well for the economy, and for the first time since 2009, Social Security payments will include a 3.5% cost of living increase in January. Local banks and credit unions are benefiting from the backlash against “big bank” fee increases, a move criticized by the Massachusetts Banking Association. First-class postage will be increased by one cent in January, so get your holiday “thank you” notes out early!

and Wareham’s Tobey Hospitals are part of Southcoast Hospitals Group. n Southcoast Health System, which includes those three hospitals, “is committed to providing a safe, healthy environment for patients, employees and visitors and to serve as a model of health promotion in our communities,” said Keith A. Hovan, President & CEO, as the System announced it will become 100 percent smoke and tobacco free effective January 1, 2012. Perhaps this will help us curb our status as an area where smoking and its related health problems are shockingly high: according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 23 percent of us who live on the South Coast are smokers, while the state percentage is 15.8.

Cold weather doesn’t stop needed infrastructure maintenance—work has already started (again!) on the Bourne and Sagamore bridges. n

Area educators and business leaders have joined together to help students best prepare for future careers in advanced manufacturing fields; UMass/Dartmouth, Bristol Community College, regional workforce boards and others have formed the Southeastern Massachusetts Advanced Manufacturing Consortium—and they hope that this initiative will also attract more hi-tech firms to the region. n

n Southcoast Hospitals Group was recently ranked in the top 100 in the nation for quality health care, particularly cardiac care. New Bedford’s St. Luke’s, Fall River’s Charlton Memorial

n T’is the season to be jolly and to enjoy the lights and music—and barely a day goes by without something for everyone and their family to enjoy. So, bundle up and check out what’s happening across the South Coast! Be sure to see this magazines events calendar at http://southcoastmags.com/ events/

Don’t forget to make your plans and reservations for New Year’s Eve early! (And plan ahead on how to keep your kids entertained over vacation week!) n

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Many farmers markets may be closed for the season (Fairhaven’s has moved indoors!), but you can still find fresh local food for the holidays near you by going to www.semaponline. org or www.farmfresh.org. And while you do your holiday shopping, stop by the many small shops, festivals, holiday events and galleries in your own town! n

Attleboro n Find out what’s scheduled at the Attleboro Arts Museum—call 508-2222644 or go to www.attleboroartsmuseum.org.

No matter where you live on the South Coast, make sure to visit the free Festival of Lights at the LaSalette Shrine—groups welcome! 10 acres of illumination, trolley, hayride, carousel. Call 508-222-5410, 508-236-9068 (groups) or go to www.lasaletteshrine.org. n

Bristol n Don’t miss the Christmas Sale on Dec 3 & 4 at the Coggeshall Farm – make a wreath, choose a tree! Go to www.coggeshallfarm.org or call 401253-9062 for details.

All month the Mansion at Blithewold sparkles in celebration of the gifts of nature. There are children’s story n

hours on Wednesdays at 4, afternoon teas Tuesdays through Fridays at 1:30, music on Thursdays and Saturdays at 6:30pm and more, all in the spectacularly decorated mansion. Learn more at www.blithewold.org.

S peci a l E v en t December 9-11 | 8am-6pm

Carver n The Edaville USA Railroad is back and better than ever! Catch the “Christmas Festival of Lights” or the “Polar Express.” Find schedules and prices by going to www.edaville. com or calling 508-866-8190 or 877-EDAVILLE.

Dartmouth n Town plans to build two wind turbines have been cancelled.

Hawthorne Medical Associates Has launched a certified oncology rehabilitation program called STAR (Survivor Training and Rehab), which will provide multidisciplinary support services for cancer patients. n

Visit the Nature Center at the Lloyd Center for the Environment—go to www.lloydcenter.org for a schedule of events. n

Stop in to see the thousands of Universal Uniques™ on Saturday, December 10 from 10am-4pm 1522 Williams Street Dighton, MA (508) 669-6988

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Machine Operator–Nights (Full-time or Part-time) Easton n Yasso, the first frozen Greek yoghurt bars in the U.S., has been unveiled by two Easton entrepreneurs, and is already becoming a healthy snack food in markets across the country.

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Fairhaven Make an appointment for a free vascular screening on Dec. 1 at the Southcoast Center for Cancer Care by calling 800-276-0103. n

Continued on next page

www.goldmedalbakery.com/jobs Or Apply in person (Mon-Fri 9:00am–4:30pm) at Gold Medal Bakery • 21 Penn St. • Fall River, MA Located in Fall River, MA, Gold Medal Bakery has been in business for almost 100 years, producing and transporting bakery goods to major supermarkets.

* After 60 day training period, full-time earns $18.77-$21.59/hr. depending on position. For full list of benefits, visit www.goldmedalbakery.com/jobs

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

Continued from previous page

Look your best and Happy Holidays from Avalon

n The town’s farmers market will hold its last indoor session on Dec. 18 at the Nemasket Gallery (56 Bridge St.) Go to www.fairhaven-farmersmarket. blogspot.com for more info. For info on events in Fairhaven, visit fairhaventours@aol.com or http:// FairhavenEvents.blogspot.com.

Fall River Make an appointment for a free vascular screening on Dec. 2 at the Truesdale Clinic by calling 800-2760103. n

(l-r) Irving Restituyo, MD, Sylvia Goncalo, RN, William Thornson, PA-C, Flavia Thornson, RN

651 Orchard Street • Suite 202 • New Bedford, MA • 774.202.7049

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n Move over, Captain Nemo! Aquabotix of Fall River, housed at Commonwealth Landing, has unveiled the battery-operated Aqualens, a small underwater camera that streams live video to a wrist-worn LCD device topside, a great invention for boat-owners, harbor masters and marine biologists.

Starting this month, all households will be receiving durable new blue and green trash and recycling bins, which will eventually be serviced by 17 new automated trash/recycling trucks. n

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December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

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n Bristol Community College has joined with the city’s school department to create a program that will allow high school drop-outs to earn their high school credential while taking college classes for credit. This “Gateway to College” program is currently offered by 30 community colleges across the country. n Catch A Christmas Carol—The Musical at BCC’s Jackson Arts Center on Dec. 3 & 4. For more info, call 508673-4880 and see the Events calendar on the BCC website. n Enjoy a holiday double-header! Listen to the Fall River Symphony Orchestra and the South Coast Community Chorale perform “A

Christmas Pops Concert” at BCC’s Jackson Arts Center on Dec. 11. For more info, go to www.fallriversymphonyorchestra.org or www.scchorale.com. The South Coast Community Chorale will also be performing on Dec. 18 at the Good Shepherd parish. Call 508-252-3975 or go to www.scchorale.com.

We make custom sizes for your Antique Pieces.

n There’s a busy schedule at the Narrows Center for the Arts this month: Lake Street Dive 12/1, Greg Brown 12/3, Justin Townes Earle 12/4, Darol Anger’s Republic of Strings 12/9, Under the Covers 12/10, Duncan Sheik 12/16, Savoy Brown 12/17, and Johnny Winter 12/30.For more info, call 508-324-1926 or go to www.ncfta. org. n Take to the sea at Battleship Cove —go to www.battleshipcove.org or call either 508-678-1100 or 1-800-5333194. And find out what’s scheduled at the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River by going to www.cmgfr.org. n Do you remember the debut of Amahl and the Night Visitors on Dec. 24, 1951, the very first Hallmark Hall of Fame production? The story of a Christmas miracle will be presented by Fall River’s Little Theatre at their Firebarn, on December 1st to 4th, and 8th to 11th. See www.littletheatre.net.

Fall River’s Preservation Society hosts a Historic Holiday House Tour on Saturday, December 3, 11am to 4pm. For $17 you are invited to visit the Lafayette-Durfee House, the Lizzie Borden B&B, the Historic Society itself, and other beautiful historic private homes. And there’s a post-tour dinner at the Q Club! More info at fallriverpreservation.org. n

Marion n Enjoy a free “Children’s Christmas Concert” on Dec. 11 at the Sippican

Continued on next page

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Home Repairs The Olde China Trader will close our shop at 259 Thames St. in Bristol on Dec. 31, 2011.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

Continued from previous page School, performed by the Tri-County Symphonic Band and the school’s Festival Choir. For details, go to www. tricountysymphonicband.org.

The old Ingraham School in the south end has reopened its doors as an affordable housing unit and an after-school program operated by North Star Learning Centers. n

Enjoy an evening of free fun and entertainment at AHA! Starry Night Dec.8. Go to www.ahanewbedford. org or call 508-996-8253 for a full schedule of events—and don’t forget that there’s plenty to do, enjoy and eat at AHA After Nine. n

Resident and Rutgers University professor Jennifer Francis is tracking climate changes in the Arctic from her home office in Marion. n

n Check out the Holiday Shop at the Marion Art Center through Dec. 23. Call 508-748-1266 or go to www.marionartcenter.org for more information.

Middleboro The town’s high school has the fifth-highest number of AP (advanced placement) students in the state, jumping to 207 this year over only 30 in 2010, thanks to a 3-year grant and faculty leadership. n

Euro Ship Store/Phoenix 24 Center Street, Fairhaven, MA

508-992-1714 www.euroshipstore.com

The town has invited Wegman’s Food Markets to open a store in South Middleboro, which currently has no grocery store. n

New Bedford

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n The city will be the first municipality in the state to launch a solar power initiative that stands to produce 10 megawatts of electricity for schools, public buildings and a number of homes, as well as save the city up to $10 million by 2033. n New Bedford resident Dr. Ann Patridge, clinical director of the Breast Oncology Center at Boston’s DanaFarber Cancer Center, was recognized for her contributions at a special White House awards ceremony on Sept. 25.

Uh oh… the Cape Wind project is becalmed again, this time by a federal appellate judge, but optimistic city leaders say that won’t delay construction of the city’s Marine Commerce Terminal, which was designed, in part, as a staging area for Cape Wind. n

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Check out what’s happening at the New Bedford Art Museum (508-9970046 or www.newbedfordartmuseum.org) and the Whaling Museum (www.whalingmuseum.org or 508997-0046)…and don’t miss the excitement at the Ocean Explorium—call 508-994-5400 or go to www.oceanexplorium.org. and find out what’s happenin’ at the Buttonwood Park Zoo. Call 508-991-4566 or visit www. bpzoo.org . n

n There’s lots on the schedule at the Zeiterion this month—start with “Jingle Bell Rock” Dec. 3 with Eddie Money, Lou Gramm and Mickey Thomas, or bring the family to the two shows on Dec. 10 of A Christmas Carol, or enjoy a block-party “Christmas Celtic Sojourn” on Dec. 11. For complete details, contact the Z at 508-994-2900 or go to www.zeiterion.org . n The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra will present the “Hear the Cheer” Family Holiday Pops concert at the Zeiterion on Dec. 17. Appearances by Santa, the NB Symphony Youth Orchestra and the SouthCoast Children’s Chorus. For details go to www.nbsymphony.org/familyholiday-pops. n The city’s Preservation Society holds its annual Holiday House Tour on Saturday the 10th, 4 to 8pm, and on Sunday the 11th, 1 to 5pm. Get more info at www.nbpreservationsociety. org.

Fundraising is underway to create a handicapped-accessible playground at Buffington Park, to include rubber matting, ramps, sensory activities and Braille. n

Norton n Visit the Winslow Farm Animal Sanctuary, a haven for abused and abandoned animals! Call 508-2856451 or go to www.winslowfarm.com for hours and events.

Swansea In this quiet town, the liveliest place is surely the Public Library, on Main street at the center of the Village. Look to www.swansealibrary.org for events and useful information.

Listen to the music! The Greater Tiverton Community Chorus will perform their winter concert of American and English holiday songs at various area churches on Dec. 3, 9 and 11. For more information, go to www.gtcchorus.org. n

Wareham

Portsmouth Enjoy the Irish Winter Solstice concert on Dec. 17 at Common Fence Music, 933 Anthony Road. For a schedule of events, call 401-683-5085 or go to www.commonfencemusic. org. n

Providence n Get in the act at the Providence Performing Arts Center! Catch the Holiday Pops with Keith Lockhart and Rockapella on Dec. 2 . Call 402-4212787 or go to www.ppacri.org. n Trinity Rep will be performing two holiday classics—It’s a Wonderful Life 12/9-31 and A Christmas Carol on Dec. 30. For details, go to www.trinityrep.com or call 401-351-4242.

Rehoboth n Enjoy a classical evening at the Goff Memorial Hall on Dec. 10, sponsored by the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society, part of the Arts in the Village series. Learn more at www.carpentermuseum.org or by calling 508-252-3031 or 509-252-5718.

Somerset n Somerset-Berkley High School senior Kevin Goddu has been selected to join the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band, which will perform at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio on Jan. 7.

n For example, check out Kaija’s Curiosities, an eclectic, exciting listing of selections available at the Library. Books like Candyfreak: A Journey Through the Chocolate Underbelly of America, and DVDs like Puss in Boots (starring Christopher Walken) are two of the recommendations. n December meetings at the Library include Scrapbooking, Friends of the Library, a number of book discussion Groups, the Senior Newshounds, and the Coupon Club.

Donations are still being accepted for the gazebo and garden between the Library and Town Hall. It’s in memory of Ryan Kelly, who was a part time member of the Library staff for five years. The Ryan Kelly Memorial Fund also provides new materials for the library’s collection. n

Taunton n The library parking lot finally has outside lighting, a relief for patrons and staffers who are there at the 8 pm closings.

Tiverton n Enjoy free films at the Meeting House! Meet John Doe on Dec. 7, and Disney’s classic Fantasia on Dec. 28. For a complete schedule of December events, go to www.tivertonfourcorners.com.

n Don’t miss “Christmas on Main Street” festivities on Saturday, Dec. 10 —tree-lighting, parade, crafts and activities for all! For details, go to www. warehamvillageassociation.com.

More than 6,000 school children from across the South Coast will benefit by the environmental education enrichment programs made possible by a grant to the Buzzards Bay Coalition. To learn more, go to www. savebuzzardsbay.org/educate. n

Westport n Whaling City Transit’s goin’ green! By installing solar PV panels on the roof of its main building, they’ve seen their electricity costs drop from $500/ month to $500/year—and they heat the building with their fleet’s used motor oil. n Enjoy an afternoon listening to the Musicians of the Old Post Road, part of the Concerts at the Point series at the United Methodist Church on Sunday, Dec. 4. For more info, go to www.OldPostRoad.org or www.concertsatthepoint.org.

Visit CoastalMags.com for more things to do.

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

Waiting for Santa from their lips to his ears by Joyce Rowley

Santa arrived at the Dartmouth Mall on November 12th to take requests from all the good South Coast boys and girls. His arrival was celebrated by Garfield, who may be pushing the “good” envelope with Santa considering his treatment of Odie, Jon’s dog. I wanted to know what the big gifts were this year, so when things slowed down a bit, I asked the children waiting in line for Santa to give me a sneak preview of what they were going to tell him. Whether they could recite the Toys ‘R Us Big Book page for their favorite toy or gave the generic name for their little heart’s desire, they all were sure of one thing: Santa would bring it.

What are they wishing for?

rady, 4, from Fall River, whose Mom said he simply wanted “Everything,” provided specifics: “army guys” and “a shark boat”—presumably G.I. Joe soldiers 16

and the Mattel Matchbox shark ship with a marine biologist out for adventure.

va, 7, of Freetown, whispered in Mom’s ear, as if saying it out loud might jinx it, that she wanted “Fijit friends,” the latest techno-cutie that responds to 30 words with over 150 different phrases, and Doodle Bears, a machine-washable stuffed bear just right for drawing on.

organ, 5, of New Bedford wants a pink LeapFrog. LeapFrog educational toys come in a variety of forms—touch books, mini laptops, and explorers. The pink one is likely one of the “My

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Own Story Time” reading pads. Then she, too, whispered in her mom’s ear, that she wants a Barbie doll Ultimate Dream Castle. What little girl wouldn’t? It comes complete with themed rooms for each Disney princess, plus a spinning musical dance floor.

kylar and Avery, 2-year-old twins from New Bedford, were easy to please. They wanted baby dolls. Santa can get them the You and Me Triplets, and they’ll have a spare to play with! Brother Zack, 5, had a very long list for Santa. His face was serious and with knitted brows he started: “Trucks, Legos, a skid steer, a Fill-Abuncha, the game Mouse Trap…” When I left him, he was still ticking off things on his list.

leven-year-old Hailey from Dartmouth, named just one thing she wanted from Santa: an IPod touch and type. For those of

us who need a primer on i-machines, this is the one that started out just as a music player but now also plays videos, downloads apps (applications to do other things) and sends email. Hence the typing.

ailey’s sibling six-year-old twins Kelsey and Kaylor are asking for a Walkin’ Puppy and an Easy Bake Oven, respectively. By walking puppy, Kelsey meant the mechanized variety, “Walkin’ Puppies” by FurReal friends. They also come in felines called “LuLu’s Walkin’ Kitties.” And an Easy Bake Oven needs no introduction. But the 2011 model has a larger oven that bakes cookies, pizza and pretzels. Christmas morning wouldn’t be the same without Easy Bake food!

e ill YOU b w e r e h W w falls? o n s e h t when

You have a CHOICE… Live at home, alone

cook, clean, shovel, play Solitaire, etc.

You Will:

recocious Cashus from New Bedford, just two-and-a-half years old, said “VTech touch screen.” I was amazed these words just rolled off this little guy’s tongue. This is another innovative learning system that teaches ages 3 and up with several different style toys. The MobiGo Touch Learning System with a touchscreen and keyboard to teach colors, the alphabet, and numbers is the one he had in mind.

he young-at-heart Georgia, 23, of Newport, RI, traveled to Dartmouth Mall to see Santa as part of a Christmas tradition. “He’s always been good to me,” she said. She’s hoping he’ll bring an iPad and earrings. With that kind of loyalty, Santa’s sure to bring the bling. Santa will be at the Dartmouth Mall for requests and photos until December 24th weekdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Monday evenings after 6 p.m., bring your pet for photos with Santa, too! Please remember to keep your pet on a leash, held, or in a carrier while waiting for Santa.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

The Nutcracker

s A local tradition s by Stacie Charbonneau Hess

Consumerism caveats aside, material gifts can sometimes express what words cannot, the magical quality of Christmas, the special snow globe, the music box, the ornament that calls to mind family memories when it is pulled from storage each year. One of the most famous and magical gifts of all time is the nutcracker that Clara receives from her uncle in the well-loved ballet. Tchaikovsky’s famous musical score, especially the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” exemplifies the feeling of Christmas; its light and bouncy staccato high opening notes cause a familiar stirring, and send us back instantly to the magic of childhood. Though The Nutcracker began as a rather dark and sinister story called The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written for an adult audience by German writer E.T.A. Hoffman, French writer Alexander Dumas penned a friendlier version to appeal to families and children years later. History says that the chief master of the Russian Imperial Ballet, Marius Petipa, commissioned Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky to compose the score that would be heard for the first time in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1892, when the Nutcracker Ballet debuted as part of double premiere alongside Tchaikovsky’s last opera, Iolanta. 18

It could hardly have been foreseen in the nineteenth century that The Nutcracker would become “quintessential” Christmas, and serve as many people’s first exposure to ballet. These days, there are as many versions of The Nutcracker as there are ballet companies. From the local children’s theater to George Balanchine’s version in New York, The Nutcracker is a tradition that looks and feels like Christmas.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Without traveling much farther than your hometown, you can enjoy a performance of The Nutcracker this holiday season, and relive the magic with the ones you love. Whether you plan to attend with a ballet aficionado or a young child, you can find an appropriate, quality rendition of The Nutcracker ballet right here on the South Coast. Each of companies listed below puts its own spin (no pun intended) on the original story of The Nutcracker; enlivening the traditional music with originality and a local feel.

Island Moving Co.’s Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff .

Thomas Palmer

Christmas is a magical time. During the happy winter holidays, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa as well as Christmas, we celebrate the spirit of giving.

New Bedford Youth Ballet: A New England Nutcracker Where else but in New Bedford would Herman Melville himself arrive on stage to greet a whaling captain, just returning home after a long voyage? The New Bedford Youth Ballet portrays an original Nutcracker that takes place in the 1850’s whaling city, described by Melville as “perhaps the dearest place to live.” Audience members journey back in time with the dancers, while celebrating this time-honored tradition. The ballet is abbreviated (adapted by director Rebecca Waskiel-Marchesseault) and narrated, so this performance appeals to all ages, even young children. Proceeds from the Nutcracker support the New Bedford Ballet Foundation, an organization that provides scholarships and affords area youth and seniors the ability to experience the ballet at area schools and theatres. True to its mission, the New Bedford ballet brings ballet not just to young dancers of all backgrounds, but reaches out to the community as a whole. With performances at St. Luke’s Hospital, Hasbro, Pace Headstart and The Swartz Center for Children, the dancers at the New Bedford Youth Ballet exemplify the generosity of the holidays with the gift of themselves and their talents. The lucky public gets a chance to see the Nutcracker performed at the New Bedford Ballet theatre on Purchase Street (near Sid Wainer Gourmet Outlet). The theatre is transformed from regular classrooms to a stage with the use of creative backdrops and partitions. Where: New Bedford Ballet Theatre 2343 Purchase St, New Bedford When: December 10, 11, 17, and December 18 - 1:30 and 3:30 pm December 16 - 6:30 and 8 pm Tickets: Tickets are $10 adults, $5 seniors, students and children. Tickets sell quickly, so reserve yours today by calling (508) 993-1387.

Spindle City Ballet – Mix and Mingle with Cast of Dancers Each year the Fall River dance company stages The Nutcracker at the expansive 700-seat theatre at Bristol Community College, so there are enough seats for friends and family! This year, Spindle City Ballet invites you to “An Evening with the Staulbaulms”—which begins 6 p.m. prior to the Saturday December 17th performance, and features a Grand Buffet, Wine Bar, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. After the show, guests can mingle with the costumed cast members—a real treat for the ballerina or ballet-lover. Here are details for the for the special mix and mingle party. The Nutcracker When: December 17 & 18 - 2 pm and 7 pm Tickets: $15 Adults, $12 Seniors $8 Children (12 & under) Evening with The Staulbaulms When: December 17 - 6pm to 10pm Tickets: $25 adults, $15 children (12 & under) Where: Bristol Community College Jackson Arts Center, 777Elsbree St, Fall River For reservations call Spindle City Ballet at (508) 536-6073 or order tickets online at spindlecityballet.org

Festival Ballet: Traditional with “The BIG Tree” If it’s elegance and tradition you are after this season, you can do no better than to visit the Festival Ballet’s production of the Nutcracker at the Providence Performing Arts Center. You’ll find it all here: the 25 foot tree that seems to expand and grow right on stage, the life-size toy soldiers, the giant mice and even dancing snowflakes. The Festival Ballet adds an international twist to the performance; for the grand finale “victory dance” over the Mouse Queen, dancers celebrate dancing styles and traditions from around the world.

Where: Providence Performing Arts Center 220 Weybosset St, Providence When: December 9 - 8pm December 10 - 2 pm and 7pm December 11 - Sunday 1:30pm Additional Discover Dance performances (Thursday, December 8 at 10am, and Friday, December 9 at 10am Tickets: $23 to $98 depending on section. Buy tickets at the box office at PPAC, or by calling (401) 421-2787 or online at ppri.org.

Island Moving Company Perambulate and Celebrate The Island Moving Company takes advantage of its glorious setting at Rosecliff mansion to invite guests to walk through the main floor during the first act. After intermission, the audience sits and enjoys the spectacular finale. Besides the ornate surroundings and magical feel of the mansion at Christmastime, one of the special things about seeing the Island Moving Company perform the Nutcracker is the up close view of the dancers, on the same level as the audience. A few rules about seating: Children under age 5 are not allowed at this venue. Children 5-10 are seated at the edge of the dance floor on pillows (not chairs). Adult seating is divided among Golden Circle (front row tables) and Silver Circle (behind Golden Circle Tables). Where: Rosecliff Mansion 670 Bellevue Avenue, Newport When: November 25, 29, 30, December 2 - 4 pm and 8 pm November 26 - 2 pm November 27 - 2 pm and 6 pm December 1 - 4 pm Tickets: Pillow seats (for children 5-10) $45, Silver tickets $65-$75, Gold tickets $75-$85. Tickets available for purchase online at islandmovingco. org (401) 847-4470.

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

Evolving holiday traditions by Charlie Harrington

town Crossing Holiday Market which will feature stalls of food, jewelry and of course a visit from St. Nick.

he bitter cold months of winter in New England can easily lessen the spirit of the hardiest of residents, which is likely one the reasons why so many towns and individuals spice up the month of December in anticipation of Christmas, Hanukah and in recent years Kwanzaa. From the traditional trees to manger scene to Menorahs, New Englanders have been finding ways to celebrate and in the process continue to evolve traditions. As times change, traditions adapt, and new twists given to some old customs.

The table tree

A Common holiday Most cities have dedicated areas where decorations and the occasional event can be held. While New York may have Rockefeller Center and its large tree, Boston, the main rival of the Big Apple in so many ways, has chosen Boston Common to host the annual tree which anchors other holiday icons and events around the largest park in the city. Last year, the Common’s Frog Pond Skating Rink got into the Christmas spirit by opening up in the afternoon to skaters looking for a breath of fresh, chilled air after a day of presents, food and drink. The unofficial start of festivities in 20

the park starts December 1st with the tree lighting ceremony. A present from the residents of Nova Scotia for all of the help Boston offered after a horrific munitions explosion in 1917, the tree has been marking the start of the season for decades. One of the most unique things to have happened with the annual tradition perhaps was when “Christmas” was removed from the description of the tree and instead referred to as “holiday” tree. Other planned events throughout the month include caroling at nearby Trinity Church as well as the Down-

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

While perhaps the largest of New England traditions, Boston Common is not the only location where trees, Holiday, Christmas or otherwise, have been placed in order to liven up the cold month of December. An old, lesser known and practiced tradition is a table tree. Families, right up to the late 19th, early 20th century, routinely decorated small saplings with cookies and other treats and placed them in the center of their tables. The trees provided a place for small hands to grasp sugary sweets and also greeted guests to the homes. Some later incarnations of the tradition used paper cutouts or faux trees to decorate the center of family bonding in the days before television. Some of the decorations also used burning candles to add a twinkling effect, which unfortunately resulted in some fiery results. The likely demise of the table tree was the shrinking of the dinner table over the decades, both physically and metaphorically, as well as the hazards that live fire near food and drying timber and pine needles posed.

The yule log One of the few Christmas traditions where fire meets wood in a proper setting is the yule log. Originally from Northern Europe, the log was an entire tree which was set aflame as a way to warm the house and much thought and planning went into finding the right tree for the occasion. In the smaller homes of 19th century New England the entire tree was substituted with a single well-chosen log which was then decorated and kept in the fireplace. Much like trees the decorations included ribbons, bells, brass and silver colored charms and other items that would catch the light from the candles which were placed atop the log and lit when guests visited. The Yule Log also had the added advantage of already being in the fireplace, so if the candles started a fire, there was no rush to extinguish the flames. It was certainly one of the few holiday traditions that could be enjoyed with minimal fear of burning the house down. Today yule logs have adapted to the change of centralized heating. With fewer fireplaces, yule logs have evolved into a popular style of cake. Often covered in various colors of chocolate frosting to simulate the bark of a tree, many yule logs today are available at bake shops, which unfortunately are also becoming less common. The Yule log’s Viking originators might not recognize it today, but they would likely enjoy it chocolaty goodness.

he knows if we have been naughty or nice, but that old idea has been given a dash of paranoia in its latest incarnation. This new “tradition,” which appears to have its origins in an Orwellian police state, is “Santa’s Secret Elves,” in both boy and girl varieties. Parents can order one of Santa’s elves for $10 to $20 and use the methods of secret police organizations from around the world to help keep their children in line over the holidays. The plush figures, ranging in size from 12 inches to 36 or more, are placed around the home to “observe” children in their natural environment and report any rule breaking to Santa at the North Pole. Perhaps the communication is telepathic or done by secret, coding machine sold separately. Either way, this is one tradition that I hope goes the way of the table tree. The idea of a “secret police force of elves” watching every move a child makes seems creepy; while it may have been intended as an explanation for how St. Nick knows who’s been naughty or nice, it really just seems to be a substitute for parenting. New Englanders have been celebrating the holidays for centuries and have adapted with the times to make older ways more up to date but nonetheless kept alive, such as yule logs changing from oak to chocolate or the Boston Common Christmas Tree losing the “Christmas” from its title. While some of the changes may incite controversy, it’s good to see an attempt to keep the traditions which have helped countless people through the harshest of weather, alive.

While some of the changes may incite controversy, it’s good to see an attempt to keep the traditions which have helped countless people through the harshest of weather, alive.

The secret police We all know that traditions says Santa checks his list at least twice, and

Happy Historical Holiday

ooking for a Currier and Ives’ Christmas? Head to the Fall River Historical Society. With a 12-foot tree in the front parlor complete with more than one thousand ornaments and three thousands lights, and many more trees in other rooms, the Fall River Historical Society brings to life the spirit and glitter of a Victorian Christmas. From the dining room with its Venetian-inspired table-top tree to the Byzantine theme in the music room, you can savor the season as celebrated by the city’s mill owners. For a taste of the times, try the Society’s Easton Tea Room for scones with clotted cream, sandwiches and other treats. Ease back into the more recent past with a stop at the Museum Shop which features books, ornaments, gifts and the goodies that once graced McWhirr’s candy counter. You can also bid on art by local artists upstairs as part of “Palette Pictures.” There’s also a new exhibit of Lizzie Borden memorabilia in honor of Parallel Lives: A Society History of Lizzie Borden and her Fall River, a recently published book by Historical Society curator Michael Martins and Assistant Curator Dennis Binette which is on sale at the shop. The Society is open during the week from 9 to 4:30 and on weekends from noon to five . For more information, visit www. lizzieborden.org.

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

Miracles on wheels by Kevin Cardin

If you’re reading this from within the cozy confines of your own home or apartment, the St. Paul’s Mobile Loaves and Fishes team wants you to be grateful. And really, you should be, because you’re not sheltered from the elements on the cement underneath a highway overpass for a bed, or residing underneath a non-waterproof tarp somewhere off the beaten path in the woods. Indeed, the environment you sleep in is probably far less severe than some of the less fortunate members of the community endure. Imagine using the shut-off of lights on a highway billboard to gauge time, or spending your nights in conditions not even fit for animals, at least by conventional standards. But people do it, day in and day out. This is where the Mobile Loaves and Fishes team from St. Paul’s United Methodist Church intercedes. Their mission statement is simple: “We provide food and clothing, and promote dignity, to our homeless brothers and sisters in need.”

Ministering to those in need They provide food and water, accompanied with hot chocolate and coffee, some simple toiletries and other basic necessities, clothing and creature comforts to the most destitute in our society. Very modest items that the rest of us take for granted can really change 22

the quality of life for someone who is down and out. Just ask Jennifer Patnaude Baker, who will be more than happy to tell you, “It’s overwhelming. They need so much, such as substance abuse counseling, housing, jobs and food. They are people too.” And she isn’t the only one who feels this way. The members of the Mobile Loaves and Fishes team seem normal enough, but they minister to the modern day leper in a manner that would make some proud, many shudder, and most cry. Thursday’s team leader, who also doubles as the Pastor of St. Paul’s, Ken MacMillen, will humbly avoid the term “street pastor,” but to see him in action and prayer with those who flock to the canteen truck for whatever need, one would be hard pressed to deem him anything else. “I feel the core of the problem is the lack of awareness from the broader community. If they knew what we see every week, I am convinced they

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

would be more than happy to help out in some capacity.”

A plea for help And that is exactly what he and the rest of the team are asking you to do. Jennifer is already an authority at soliciting donations among her 500 plus friends on Facebook, but now she and the others are bringing their plea for donations public. It’s going to be a tough winter, and Pastor Ken is hoping that the donations will be brimming over to be distributed throughout the city. “We need everything, both for men and women, from almost new jeans, jackets, gloves, hoodies, sneakers, scarves, blankets, shirts and anything else that would brighten up a homeless person’s all-too-often dismal day.” In these difficult times, the need outpaces the donations. Jennifer Baker stresses that the situation worsens as each passing day gets colder. For more information on the Mobile Loaves and Fish project, please contact Pastor Ken MacMillen at St. Paul’s United Methodist church, located on the corner of Rockdale Ave. and Kempton St. in New Bedford, at (508) 993 -0614 and at mlf.org/locations/ new-bedford/

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

Shop locally for holiday style by Stephanie Afonso Blanchard

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December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Holiday office party

Cocktail party

Many women struggle with dressing for this event, but the key for style success is to simply add a little pizzazz to a professional-looking outfit. If the event is right after work, choose something that can go from day to night. Wearing a black cocktail dress and colored blazer to the office is a great solution. When the clock strikes five, put on a statement necklace and voilà, you’re party ready. If your coworkers’ outfits are on the dressy side, simply take off your blazer. You also can’t go wrong with a kneelength lace skirt and cardigan; this also works at cocktail and dinner parties. For a fancy work event, choose a cocktail dress. To maintain your office image, choose one that’s not too far above the knee and covers your girls.

Almost anything goes for a cocktail party. If you’re worried about what to wear, don’t fret. Choose a top with pretty details and pair it with an A-line skirt or dressy pants. Finish your look with heels or fancy flats and great jewelry.

New Year’s Eve party This night’s your time to shine and you can dress as glamorously as you like. Silver, red, navy and black are classic New Year’s Eve colors. If you wear a simple dress, accessorize with sparkly jewelry. If you choose a detailed dress, wear simple jewelry to avoid looking like a Christmas Tree.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

GREEN SOUTH COAST

A greenie’s gift guide by Joyce Rowley

As we head into December, please remember that, unfortunately, Nature doesn’t take holidays. The gift you buy today—created with natural resources and energy—will eventually have to be thrown out. The last thing we want to do is spend money on things that use a ton of carbon and end up burned in an incinerator or dumped in a landfill. And who hasn’t seen children two days after the holiday with so many toys that they never even play with some? If we do our holiday shopping with saving energy and natural resources in mind, we can cut waste at the source. Instead of recycling gift wrap, give a gift that doesn’t need wrapping. Or if we want to give something tangible, why not give one made using sustainable Earth practices, like organic food and clothes? Or we can support local environmental businesses and organizations that help conserve our natural resources and promote a healthy environment.

A thousand shades of green We don’t have to do it all at once— there are as many shades of green as there are people. How deep a green you want to be is up to you. But even if you go 50% green this year and replace half your gifts with sustainable Earth gifts that’s 50% fewer resources used and 50% less energy consumed. Support a local non-profit organization with memberships or donations,

and you may even save some green on your taxes!

Light Green: Give a good time! By giving services instead of gifts you can support local businesses and cultural activities long after the holiday season has passed. Here are a few of my favorites: Theater tickets! The Zeiterion Performing Arts Center has a great season lined up. From Joan Rivers, Spamalot, and the Velveteen Rabbit, to Letters from Home, stories from soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan, there’s something for everyone. Gift certificates are offered starting at $10. (zeiterion.org) Give gifts from the grapes at Westport River Vineyard and Winery in Westport. South Coast is wine country. Why not give a gift certificate to your favorite wine lover? The Winery is open year round, and has an online wine supply. Or set up a private tasting, which starts as low as $10 per person. (westportrivers.com) Give fine dining at anyone of our South Coast restaurants. My favorite, the Huttleston House restaurant on Huttlston Avenue (Rte. 6) in Fairhaven, offers gift certificates that never ever expire (Federal regulations require

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

gift cards be valid for 5 years; Massachusetts law requires 7 years). Treat someone special to a lovely dinner with a gift certificate they can use anytime. Treat the kids to Monster Mini Golf and a Friendly’s sundae afterwards at the CVS plaza on Route 6, Fairhaven. Stop by to pick up gift certificates or order online at monsterminigolf.com/ fran-ma-fairhaven. Tickets to Ocean Explorium or the New Bedford Whaling Museum are another inexpensive gift for children. At under $10 each, this is a great gift for nieces and nephews. The nice part is that even if they’ve been there before, there’s always something new on exhibit. Throw in a gift certificate for the gift shop so they can buy a souvenir to remember their visit. (whalingmuseum.org and oceanexplorium.org) For the classical music lover, it’s tickets to the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra. The season has six performances left after December. Choose from symphony with steamy Cuban undertones by Arturo Marquez to the music of Aaron Copeland. This season entices and entertains. (nbsymphony.org)

Greener: Think organically! If you must give something traditional, how about using the organic version to lessen the impacts on old Mother Earth? Doing a fruit basket? Make it organic! It’s healthy for the Earth but also for you and your family. You may find that organic food tastes better.

How on Earth (The Store) at 62 Marion Road, Mattapoisett, has organic fruit, bread, and other organic and local produce. Buy a share of next year’s vegetable harvest at Brix Bounty Farm (brixbounty.com). Farmers are often hard-put in the spring to buy supplies. Coop shares allow you to have the freshest veggies in town, plus support non-toxic farming methods. And the veggies are nutrient dense. This is a great gift for that vegan in the family, or that family of vegans! How about giving a gift that keeps on giving? Membership in Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership (www.semaponline.org) supports local farms and gets you a discount to workshops where you can learn how to farm, how to market your produce, and meet local farmers. Coming events in Spring 2012 include a workshop on nutrient dense foods (see Brix Bounty Farms above), meeting the local lobsterman and chefs about lobsters, and going to a farm conference. Great for the 4-H student, or that backyard farmer.

Greenest: Sustainable gifts Support the environment by giving a membership in South Coast land and water conservation organizations. Or shop at their online stores for T-shirts, books, and other products for unique gifts. Many offer events and classes that are educational, fun, and lead to a better understanding of the Earth’s precious natural resources. Since memberships and goods may be fully or partially tax deductible, it’s the greenest! Traveling along the South Coast from west to east, here are some of the folks working to protect the environment: Green Futures Fall River greenfutures.org For a $10 membership fee, you get email and mailings of their newsletter and events. Take a guided hike through the bioreserve with Green Futures members, canoe the

Quequechan River, and learn how you can help protect the South Coast. Westport River Watershed Alliance westportwatershed.org The Alliance is a nonprofit environmental and education advocacy group formed in 1976 to that promotes and protects the natural resources in the Westport River watershed. Membership fees begin at $40 for individuals. Find the book “Fish Hawk: The Story of the Osprey,” gorgeous calendars, T-shirts, hoodies and hats, all under $25 at their online store. Lloyd Center for the Environment lloydcenter.org The Lloyd educational center is surrounded by 55 acres of arboreal forests and saltwater estuary in Dartmouth. Membership fees of $30 for an individual to $50 for families go to keeping the educational center open to the public. Or ask about early enrollment for next summer’s children programs for your child or grandchild. Mass Audubon’s Allen’s Neck massaudubon.org Also in Dartmouth—Allen’s Neck, a 905-acre preserve with 1.5 miles of trail. The sanctuary offers wildlife habitat for hundreds of migratory and year-round bird species. Membership starts at $70 for individuals, $80 for families and includes free admission to all Audubon sanctuaries statewide, a newsletter on local events, discounted workshops, and savings on gifts at their online store. Perfect for the family bird-watcher! The Coalition for Buzzards Bay savebuzzardsbay.org Founded in 1987, the Coalition for Buzzards Bay has been at the forefront of protecting Buzzard Bay. Their research and advocacy have brought attention to tributary water pollution, protecting essential fisheries habitat, and creating public access to the coast. The Coalition runs on membership donations. $10 introductory

level, $30 for supporters, and $60 for families. Online you’ll find reasonably priced T-shirts with artwork by local artist Bill Shattuck and the book Buzzards Bay: A Journey of Discovery by Dan Lee on the nature, history, and culture of Buzzards Bay. Or get a burgee with COBB’s logo—just perfect for your favorite eco-sensitive and nautically-minded niece or nephew for their dorm room wall! Mattapoisett Land Trust mattlandtrust.org Preserving the land in order to enrich the quality of life for present and future, the Mattapoisett Land Trust has protected three important properties in town. Membership in the Trust is $30 for individuals and $50 for families. Their online shop has organic T-shirts for the family, a tote made from recycled material and more! Marion Institute marioninstitute.org Reduce your carbon footprint by a ton for $7! Now that’s a bargain. The Marion Institute supports Las Gaviotas, an eastern Columbian community that for 23 years has been rebuilding the rainforest. For a $7 donation, Las Gaviotas will plant enough rainforest to reduce carbon emissions by 2,000 pounds. How green is that! Wareham Land Trust www.warehamland.org This small group of dedicated people watched as the development boom began devouring their town. Formed in 2001 to preserve open space, they have protected over 300 acres of diverse landscapes through acquisition. Membership is $10 for an individual, or $20 for families. While they don’t have an online store, they do accept larger donations to help future acquisitions. There’s another benefit to all of these gifts—you never know what gift will open a child’s mind to a new hobby or future career. And when you think about it, those are the gifts that we remember best.

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

COVER STORY

Surprise yourself fine local restaurants by Paul Letendre

Christmas is wonderful! But it’s December that can beat the crap out of us before we reach that wonderful holiday. Surprises, planning surprises, and stress dominate this month. To-do lists are extended. Hours seem shorter with less daylight. The weather can be as wicked as the pressure we put on ourselves to surprise whoever it is we want to surprise. It can be tough to find time to eat properly…or even eat at all. Oh the joy. We spend time shopping and then grab a quick same-old bite to eat, usually at a chain restaurant. This will be the busiest time of year for those shopping area restaurants: even their normally predictable efficiencies will be taxed and their predictable mediocrity might be less than expected.

Transform the norm Give yourself a break, take a short ride, and escape the crowds. Imagine you are on a 2-3 hour vacation and you’ll lower your stress levels. We have many great restaurants within 20 to 30 minutes of the busy local shopping areas. Most of the restaurants mentioned here have been around for lots of years, and many have water-views. Yes, going to an independent can be less predictable … that’s the point: it’s Christmas season, time for surprises. Want a place to eat where the atmospheres won’t remind you of shopping, where you won’t be surrounded by televisions, and where the surprises will likely delight rather than disappoint? 28

So many places to start! We’ll begin in Fall River, at the Sagres Restaurant, 177 Columbia Street, a small, cozy place featuring delicious Portuguese cuisine, extensive wine offerings, and live music on weekends. The menu and some customer reviews are at http://osagres.wordpress.com. The New Boston Bakery (www. newbostonbakery.com) offers fabulous pastries, the best scones, unique salads, homemade soups, and gourmet sandwiches. They’re at 279 New Boston Road. Now go West over the river, to Swansea. Cozy Kettle Restaurant is right across from the Swansea Mall; breakfast is served all day long; and try the biggest and yummiest Baked

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Apple Pancake in the South Coast. Prices are reasonable, and every dish is made to order. Check out their menu at www.cozykettle.com Next, we’ll jump to Providence, but not to worry, we’ll swing back East. Weekdays can be a great time to try one of your Federal Hill favorites without the crowds. You can’t go too far wrong on the Hill. I have a special liking for Andino’s (www.andinositalianrestaurant.com). Their Chicken Francaise is just about as good as it gets. From Providence, head back east towards the heart of our South Coast area: don’t overlook the Old Grist Mill Tavern (www.ogmtavern.com). It is only a few minutes away from a few of the more popular shopping areas. The beef selections are always a sure thing.

Swing South to Warren and then Bristol There are a plethora of good and reasonably priced restaurants… many with seaside views. The Wharf Tavern (www.thewharftavernri.com) recently re-opened under a new owner who is an experienced restaurant pro. The waterfront view won’t be beat. Paul Bullock’s Tav-Vino has been quietly pleasing their guests for 35 years (www.tav-vino.com). You’ll always get some of the best available beef or seafood here. They offer a unique atmosphere and reasonable prices. Trafford’s (www.traffordrestaurant.com) is relatively new on the

waterfront. I haven’t been there since it opened, but did see it during construction. It is special. Trafford Kane is the son of Bill Kane from Marguerite’s in Westport. There is some good restaurant DNA going on there…I expect it will be very good. Drive a little further south into Bristol for more great places to escape the shopping frenzy. Along the waterfront and one block up on Hope Street are a number of great get-a-way places. Redlefsen’s (www.redlefsens.com), SS Dion’s (www.ssdion.com), and the Lobster Pot (www.lobsterpotri.com) have all been pleasing their guests since the ‘80s or before. They all have a great view and hard won reputations for good food. Breakfast and comfort foods with fun names like “Morning Blast” and “Monkey Business will pique your curiosity and bring you fresh wholesome meals with a dash of whimsey. See www.ilikegreeneggs.com

at 1379 Fall River Avenue in Seekonk. Tehy promise “the authentic taste of old Mexico,” and serve roll-your-own sizzling fajita platters. See more at www.titos.com Further east, Partners Village Store and Kitchen, at 865 Main Road in Westport, features homemade soups, grilled panini sandwiches, and baked goods like Fruity Crumb bars and seven kinds of Giant Cookies. Their menu is at partnersvillagestore.com/ kitchen/menu. Just past Horseneck Beach is The Bayside Restaurant (www.thebaysiderestaurant.com). This place is crowded during beach season and on nice weather weekends, but during Christmas season, you’ll usually have your choice of tables as you enjoy the view and the food. Heading toward the New Bedford area, Padanaram Village is home to Black Bass Grille (www.blackbassma. com), a long-standing harbor-front landmark.

Tiverton and Little Compton

Yes!…New Bedford

Skip over a couple of bridges into Tiverton and another special place with a water view and long history is Stone Bridge Restaurant (www. stonebridge-restaurant.com). Owner/ chef Nick Chrisochoidis recently had his restaurant remodeled. Blackboard specials are always a good bet here. If you are really feeling adventurous, hook up your GPS and head for Crowther’s (www.crowthersrestaurant.com) in Little Compton. You won’t get a water-front view here, but you will think that you have stepped back to another time. Donald Crowther sold the restaurant a few years ago, and now Kane and Kenny Lewis are bringing back the old Crowther’s magic: good, traditional comfort food. If the weather is bad, make sure that you have your boots on as the parking lot is unpaved.

New Bedford has all of the usual suspects. Davy’s Locker (www. davyslockerrestaurant.com) is a great place from which to view the waterfront activities. Freestones and the Candleworks both have long histories of satisfying their patrons.

Back in Mass Tito’s Cantina was founded by two amigos and has two locations, at 651 West Main Road in Middletown, and

…and Fairhaven Drive over the bridge into Fairhaven and Margaret’s Restaurant (508992-9942) is on Main Street. This is a casual BYOB, with uncommonly good food. It’s a tiny place and will get loud when crowded, so weekdays/ nights are definitely best. I’m told that their crepes are excellent. Call ahead for hours since there is no web-site listing. While we all have learned that the Christmas season can be taxing and stressful, let’s remember that a short break can bring long benefits. And putting a few dollars into the local economy will bring even longer benefits.

Special offer $10 off lunch or dinner entrée One coupon per table, not valid with other discounts. Minimum order two entrees per table • Exp. 12 / 31/ 11

207 Swansea Mall Drive Swansea, MA

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Join us on Thursday and Saturday nights from 4pm- 8pm for our Buy 1/Get 1 free special Offer valid on select menu only and not available for take out.

Come try one of our oven-baked pancakes Breakfast served all day!

Visit us: cozykettle.com The South Coast Insider / December 2011

FOOD NOTES

Spread holiday joy with

Gifts from the kitchen Text and photography by Melissa Tavares

What better way to bring sweet smiles to your friends and family this holiday season than to make delicious gifts that come from your heart, hands, and kitchen. Edible homemade gifts remind us of what the holidays are really all about: spending time with the ones we love, spreading joy to those who we cherish most, and savoring each delicious moment of life.

Peppermint Crunch Fudge

Granola Cookie Bars

Makes 36 pieces

Makes 24 bars

1-1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1/4 cup butter 1-1/2 cups white chocolate chips 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, peanuts, and pecans) 1 cup chopped dried fruit (such as apricots, cranberries, and raisins) 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup butter, room temperature 2 cups light brown sugar 2 eggs 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt 1-1/2 cups flour 3 cups old fashioned oats

Line an 8 x 8 baking pan with parchment paper. Spray with nonstick spray. Combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/2 the can of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/8 cup (2 tablespoons) butter in a glass bowl. Microwave on medium for 30 second increments and stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted. Pour into the prepared baking pan and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Repeat with the white chocolate chips. Stir in the peppermint extract and spread evenly over the semi-sweet chocolate layer. Sprinkle with the crushed candy canes. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to harden overnight at room temperature. Cut into squares.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Preheat oven 325 degrees. Line an 11 x 17 rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a small bowl combine the nuts, fruit, and chocolate chips, set aside. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, baking powder, and salt, and beat until well incorporated. Using a large spoon stir in the flour, oats, and 2 cups of the nut-fruit-chocolate mixture until just combined. Press into the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with the remaining nuts, fruit, and chocolate. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges just begin to brown. Cool to room temperature before slicing into bars.

Download gift tags at www.avacatau.com/print A delicious homemade gift from your kitchen is not complete without beautiful packaging. With little more than a simple white box, clear cellophane bag or even a couple sheets of parchment paper, adorned with gift tag and bow, you’ll show your recipients how special they are to you. To print the gift tags pictured in this article, visit www.avacatau.com/print.

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Using a vegetable peeler, remove the zest from the limes trying not to get any of the white pith. In a food processor combine the flour, 1/3 cup sugar, lime zest, dried cranberries, salt, and cornstarch. Process until the cranberries and lime zest are very finely chopped. Add the butter, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons lime juice. Pulse until just combined. Pour out onto a work surface and form Melissa Tavares into a 1-1/4 diameter log. Wrap in plastic is a lifelong South wrap and freeze for at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Slice the log into ¼ inch thick rounds and arrange on the baking sheets. Bake for approx 12 minutes, until cookies just barely begin to brown on the sides and bottoms. Remove from oven and allow to cool briefly. Toss each cookie in the remaining sugar and allow to fully cool on a wire rack.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

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Grammy’s Cranberry Nut Bread by Andrea Gilbert

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For all the madness of the Christmas holiday, some things in my family will never change.

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My mom still makes tons of delicious cookies, I still make my cranberry nut breads and my Aunt Peg’s fudge; for the holiday we still make our Christmas Tree cake in “ancient” metal pans; my mom makes the most delicious coffee cake rolls that you have ever had and we have them for breakfast on Christmas morning; my sister still gives me a huge box of Junior Mints; I buy each of the kids a Hallmark ornament as well as my husband, as he is a kid at heart too. When we were kids and even as

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

young adults my parents used to have a Christmas Eve open house. Their friends would come and we could invite our friends as well. There would be wonderful food, drink and of course desserts. I can remember looking forward to those parties. After everyone left, we would all walk down to midnight mass at our church. After church we would walk home, dropping of friends one at a time as we climbed up the hill to our house. Sometimes if we were lucky it would be snowing softly, sometimes it

was so cold we wondered why did we walk when we could have driven. When we got home, my sister and dad would head off to dream land but my mom and I would get busy with making sure the house was in order for Christmas Day. We would put out special gifts and stockings in the living room and then we would sit with just the tree lights and the soft glow of candles in the windows and not say a word. It was so peaceful and quiet that we did not want any talking to spoil it. It is a memory of my mom that is all mine. It was the last moments of relaxing that we would have before opening presents, welcoming family over for lunch, and later driving to Needham to see my aunts, uncles and cousins. Things were simpler then. The holidays were a lot less commercialized; you did not hear Christmas music on the car radio from Veteran’s Day until Christmas when you are so tired of listening to it that you could shut it off. We still enjoy the holidays but we try to avoid being sucked into the total madness and we try to remember what the season is truly about. A few years ago we decided not to buy gifts for the adults, but just for the kids. We only have one great-nephew and one niece so it was much easier to buy gifts and a lot less expensive. We still donated to our special charities and I baked for friends and some of our neighbors. The funny thing is that you really do get so much more out of giving rather than receiving. I don’t expect anything in return especially when I am baking for someone. I enjoy putting on the old Christmas music and setting the candle lights in our windows, lighting up the tree and sharing all those wonderful smells I remember from being in my mom’s old house and which are now in our own home. Happy Baking and Merry Christmas to all…. Leave out cookies and milk for Santa and don’t forget the reindeer…

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2 cups flour 1 cup sugar 1½ teaspoons of baking powder ½ teaspoon of baking soda 1 teaspoon salt ¼ cup Crisco shortening (not oil) 1 cup chopped cranberries ½ cup chopped walnuts Mix dry ingredients together and then cut in shortening so mixture is very crumbly. Then in a measuring cup, combine: ¾ cup orange juice 1 beaten egg 1 tablespoon of orange rind Beat this with a fork and then slowly add it to the dry ingredients and mix well. Then add ½ cup of chopped walnuts and 1 cup of chopped cranberries. Note: I chop my cranberries in half before using. Grease a 9 x 5 loaf pan and bake the bread for 1 hour at 350 degrees. Before putting your pan into the oven, sprinkle sugar over the top. This recipe is for a single loaf. I double all the ingredients and will get 3 nice size loaves of this bread or 6 small loaves. It freezes great also. I bake these in the foil pans that you can get at Job Lot. I also buy the ones with the plastic covers at the holidays. Bake your bread in them, take the breads out to cool completely, put them back into the pans, put the cover on, attach a bow and you have a nice gift.

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

BUSINESS BUZZ

Struggling with our regional economy by Stephen C. Smith

For decades, state and local officials, public and private organizations, business owners and citizens have all worked hard to fix the perpetually struggling South Coast economy. It is a daunting task that is made even more discouraging by the ever-present shadow of the more successful metro Boston economy a short commute to our north. The structural problems with our economy become even more apparent during recessionary times like these. Companies close, unemployment stays in double digits, and promising ventures falter. We can’t seem to catch a break.

many people employed in the most vulnerable parts of the economy.

What’s a region to do? While we may be a tired team faced with long yardage, it is not time for a Hail Mary pass. No giant employer or casino is likely to locate here and instantly create 10,000 high paying jobs. We need to stick to our best game plan —steady and important work on the fundamentals. These are education, infrastructure and a reasonable business climate.

The numbers confirm our plight

Education

Rates of joblessness are double the state’s averages while income and education levels sit far below the Massachusetts numbers. Drilling deeper into the statistics we find that our jobs are lower paying, that we are underrepresented in the growth sectors, and we still have too

The jobs of the future are not likely to be the well paid manufacturing jobs of the last generation that require only a high school diploma. Those jobs are going going gone. Our competitive advantage will come from an educated labor force—both in fundamentals and specialized skills.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider November

Even with dwindling resources and taxpayer revolts, it is no time to scrimp on the goal of improved education for all our citizens, regardless of age. It is our region’s investment in the future. We could learn a lesson from California—a negative one. There is increasing grumbling and fear among Silicon Valley companies over California’s ongoing budget crisis that is responsible for deep cuts to education and infrastructure. Firms are getting restless, justifiably concerned about their future in the golden state. Would they consider expansion here instead? Not a likely occurrence, but the California situation should not be a harbinger for Massachusetts. We must continue to invest in our future.

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Infrastructure Good infrastructure is a key to a robust economy. We need to keep our roads, bridges, rails and ports in tiptop condition. These assets are critical to the transport of both goods and people. And we are really fumbling the ball in this case. Today our transportation investment needs far outstrip the financial aid that we can reasonably expect from the federal and state governments. And that is not counting South Coast rail, which would tie us in closely to the Boston metro area and greater job opportunities. It is time for our state and federal governments to bite the bullet and raise more revenue for this critical need. Our transportation network is critical to the success of our regional economy. The strategy to induce biotech research firms from the Boston-Cambridge area to “ramp up” their production in southeastern Massachusetts (rather than southeastern U.S.) is the basis for the proposed biotech center and park in Fall River. Many millions have been invested by UMass and federal stimulus funds (the new exit ramp) but we must take steps to insure that surrounding infrastructure can support this investment. Wouldn’t a South Coast rail station at the foot of the ramp in Freetown look pretty good?

Our business climate Finally, creating a healthy business climate must not be overlooked, but we must not go overboard. It is not productive if we are so pro-business that we sacrifice our quality of life and offer big tax giveaways for the sake of any jobs. As Colin Angle, CEO of iRobot said recently, he is well aware that the Commonwealth can’t afford to give him tax breaks. What he really wants is a healthy business climate and predictable permitting. By predictable, he wants to know where he can and where he can’t develop, with no last minute Meditech surprises. Plus he wants to be able to do it in a reasonable period of time. That is a realistic expectation and within our control. So if we are to ever emerge from this long recession, we need to stick to our plan to develop the fundamentals. Not only should that help us emerge from this recession, but it should buy some insurance for the next time.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

WINE NOTES

Gifts of by Alton Long

If someone in your family, or one of your dearest friends, enjoys wine made from grapes, then a gift of an interesting bottle of wine will make that person very happy. If you know what their favorite wine is, it makes the choice easy, but if your friend is someone who likes many different kinds of wines, then you will have to search for something unique. I remember a wine gift I received many years ago and it was one of my first Spanish wines. My wife and I had been on a cruise and one of the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dinner wines was a Marquee de Riscal from the Rioja. I loved it and my dear wife made a note of it and remembered to buy one for me for Christmas. I was impressed, as I had forgotten about it. I was even more surprised to learn that it was much more reasonably priced than what I expected from the price we paid on the ship and it was readily available in local wine shops. To this day I usually have several Spanish wines in my cellar including several Marques de Riscal Riojas. Today, the regular Marques de Riscal Rioja may run from $15 to $17. The Reserva will cost another $4 to $5 more. But it would be worth it if the recipient loves Spanish wines, for Reservas from Spain are smoother and softer and often worthy of that extra cost. The Marques de Riscal, like lots of Rioja wines, are made primarily from Tempranillo, a classic wine grape of Spain. 36

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

A special gift Perhaps a more romantic wine gift is a bottle of sparkling wine or even genuine Champagne if you can afford it. Modest priced sparkling wines can run anywhere from $5 to $20, and some even come in holiday packaging. Some local wine shops have attractive gift boxes with a bottle of Sparkling wine and two slender Champagne glasses, one on either side of the bottle. The price for this neat packaged gift can run about $40 to $50 depending on the shop. For a really impressive gift, take a look at some of the pre-packaged wine baskets; they run from about $25 to over $100. There is a mix of several wine bottles in each basket or bucket. In one instance they were all white, in another all red. There were several half bottles in the lower priced baskets. Of course you can probably get the shop to package up your own selection as a gift. But if you intend to give a lot of folks wine (like my boss did a number of years ago), buy a case and get a good discount. You can package them yourself. There are many nice gift bags designed for holding a wine bottle. A lady friend I used to know made some neat holiday wine bags out of felt with sequins and beads for a festive holiday look. I am afraid the bags were better than the wine she put in them. But it was still a nice idea.

to someone who only takes a glass or two of wine a day. Besides wine and the paraphernalia needed to open and preserve it, there are some elegant wine decanters in the nicer stores. They work very well but they are especially good for Ports and Sherries, which can last weeks in a nice glass stopper decanter.

Ahhh, wine books There are so many to choose from in a good book store. Some are lots of so called “coffee table wine books” that are filled with beautiful full color oversize pages of vineyards and wineries. They are elegant and beautiful to leaf through, and sometime contain excellent material on wine, the wineries and the wine regions in addition to the nice pictures. You might actually be able to find a book on a wine region or topic in which your wine friend is especially interested. There are the books that specialize in one country, such as wine of Germany, or a region, like the wines of Northern Italy. You might be able to find a wine “encyclopedia” with thousand of wine names, terms and places. Some are pocket sized so the wine person can take the book with them the next time they go wine shopping. Perhaps, last but not least, is a subscription to a fine wine magazine. Buy a copy, of the one you intend to give, and when you wrap it up, add a note that the recipient will be receiving this periodical on a monthly basis. I know that when I go out to buy holiday wines for my wine friends, I cannot help but buy a bottle of wine for my self. I know that’s not what the holiday is about, but who knows, maybe Santa won’t bring me any wine this year. So I’ll know I can enjoy the holidays in any case, because I will have at least one good special bottle. Happy Holidays!

Besides the wines there are also several other wine items that would make a nice gift.

Accoutrements Besides the wines there are also several other wine items that would make a nice gift. If your wine friend is still struggling with an old fashion corkscrew, he or she might be thrilled with some of the new devices that make removing a cork as easy as can be. Most good wine shops also sell the canisters of nitrogen and the enclosures that can be used to preserve the residual wine in an opened bottle for several days. (Refrigeration will make it last longer.) That is a nice gift

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

BUSINESS BUZZ

Health insurance

crisis Jay Pateakos

If you look back ten years ago, many of us never knew how much our employers were paying for our health insurance premiums. Call it blissful ignorance or naiveté, things seemed a whole lot better—at least for employees—when those costs were not known. Back then, working at a supermarket chain, I wasn’t even paying a cent for my family coverage. A year or two later, when companys really started pushing to share the escalating costs, my premium costs per week were around $5. Five whole bucks a week. The only reason many of us know how much these monthly health insurance premiums cost now is because many of us are now paying a lot more than $5 per week, and even then, many of us still don’t know the true costs. Many employees are now sharing the costs 50/50 with employers, some even more.

And it won’t get better 2012 health insurance premiums in Massachusetts are going up an average 4.8 percent. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, an average family plan in the USA costs $13,375 annually, and in Massachusetts is higher at $14,723, rising more than a $1,000 or more each year for the last decade. Despite this trend, Massachusetts businesses still contribute 76 percent of the cost burden of these plans. But 38

businesses, already fighting a major recession that is not going away, cannot sustain any more increases. With the state making coverage mandatory and a new healthcare law in tow, it’s a matter of businesses finding money to pay these escalating premiums, or dealing with the fines. Some can afford the fines. Others are grappling with what to do while they try to keep their business afloat. With many small businesses being priced out of their health insurance premiums, Joseph Murphy, the state’s Commissioner of Insurance, said the state is doing what it can to keep costs down. Commissioner Murphy said he realized the “smothering effect” the high premiums are having on small businesses, but talked about the strides the state has made since 2006 in curbing those costs as best it could, with the highest 2012 health insurance premium coming in at 5.9 percent for Blue Cross/Blue Shield. “Up until last year, small groups of 50 or less did not have to file their rates with the Division of Insurance, but now they are required to do so 30 days in advance,” said Murphy. “We found a vast majority of them did not meet the statutory requirements. The increases were anywhere from a 6 percent increase to 34 percent.”

Fighting increases Murphy said the Division disap-

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

proved of a total of 230 of 270 rates, which led to a lot of give and take, a lawsuit, and a settlement, before the average increase came down to 4.8 percent, a combined savings of over $120 million. One local business told the Commissioner that his agency currently pays 50 percent of an employee’s health insurance and they can’t afford it. Murphy suggested small businesses try their best to engage health insurance brokers on options and limit network products that could save the business up to 12 percent off their premiums. Murphy said while he encouraged businesses to explore their options, there were also cautionary tales out there of self-insured plans that are not appropriate for small employers. As part of a small business Group Purchasing Cooperative, small businesses may be able to tap into discounted health insurance rates in the coming year, though there will be a cap on just 85,000 plans being made available.

Local options reduce costs Former State Representative Stephen Canessa, who now works for the Southcoast Health System as its Legislative Liaison, said they were hoping for more assistance from the state in people staying local for their healthcare; basically breaking the mindset

that you have to travel to Boston for the best care, and cutting down on healthcare costs at the same time. “It would be great to have some kind of structured, tiered system to would encourage people to stay local for their care. Right now, we lose 25-30 percent of the (area) people to other hospitals,” said Canessa. “We would love to keep everyone within our system. It would be something like a three-tiered health plan where the third tier would be more expensive with more out of pocket costs. It would make employees think before they seek out care.” “We want more people to stay local; to see the significant upgrades recently made in local care and how our quality is up to par with any hospital in the Boston area,” said Canessa. Despite some of the improvements that Commissioner Murphy said had been made in keeping healthcare costs down, Steve Smith of the Fall River-based company EC Pigments USA said he’s had healthcare plans in England, Germany and Australia, and the US version is the “most Neanderthal” he’s ever seen.

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Lobbying adds to cost “So much money gets put into lobbying, it’s obscene. We can’t afford decent healthcare,” said Smith, who saw a recent premium increase hit 30 percent. “I know you seem to be proud that you limited the increases to 6 percent but we are getting squeezed to death. Our people are not getting the healthcare they need. There’s a huge disconnect between this industry and the real world.” Commissioner Murphy admitted the savings so far are not enough and that more has to be done. Although Massachusetts has been the trend-setter in healthcare reform, businesses seem to be in worse shape than they were just five years ago when it comes to grappling with health insurance costs. This means is employees will be called upon to contribute even more to their health insurance plans. For many, it’s either that or no job at all.

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The South Coast Insider / December 2011

BOOKS FOR HOLIDAY GIVING

For little readers… By the Elves at Baker Books, in Dartmouth

Books are always one of the most appreciated gifts we can give. Here are a collection of our favorites that will entertain again and again. We love them, and so we commend them to you and the children in your life. DRAW WITH THE CARTOON DUDE by Dave MIller Random House $14.99 paperback This is the perfect gift for any would be, could be, should be cartoonist! Growing up with an older brother who was a natural in all things art, I steered well clear of any drawing or painting. However, when I picked up this book it actually made me want to learn, and more importantly, the easy step by step process made me believe I could! Here you will learn how to draw awesome superheroes, dinosaurs, cars and more. – Ian Mello EYEWITNESS: SEASHORE Eyewitness DK $16.99 hardcover Going to the beach will have more meaning and be more fun for kids and adults if they recognize what they are seeing in the natural world. From dunes to rocky coast to tide pools, DK presents text and terrific pictures and photos of plants, animals, algae and fossils that are common along the shore. This book brings the reader an appreciation for the life at the ocean’s edge. – Joyce Miller 40

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC KIDS ULTIMATE WEIRD BUT TRUE: 1000 WACKY FACTS by National Geographic Kids Random House $19.95 hardcover All the weirdness that absorbs young minds is right here in this awesome compendium of strange but true facts: Riding a unicycle on a mountain? Check! Animals that are bizarre shapeshifters or have amazing talents? Check! Strange places? Check! All this and plenty more makes this a book that kids and curious adults will love! Lots of color pictures make the pages pop! The facts and photos are here, and it’s even more unbelievable than Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – Magoo Gelehrter

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

POINDEXTER MAKES A FRIEND by Mike Twohy Simon & Schuster $15.99 hardcover Shy little Poindexter Pig likes to read to his stuffed animals. But one day he has an adventure at the library and learns— as well as teaches— a valuable lesson. This is a great read—aloud story and perfect for anyone with a “little professor” in their lives who might be more apt to choose books over friendship with other kids. The story provides a great example of how to befriend someone that can actually be followed step by step. This is a heartfelt tale and also a guide for the socially inexperienced. – Magoo Gelehrter

TUCKER: LITTLE DOG LOST & FOUND by Danny Sit Sterling $9.95 hardcover Tucker is a very little dog who seems to live the life of Riley. In fact, life is so good and easy that one day Tucker feels the urge for an adventure. He starts off on a train that takes him to the beach, and ends up lost, where he learns that being home

with his papa is the best place to be. All photos are done of the real and very cute Tucker by his real papa who is a professional photographer, and this makes for a really cute story! – Magoo Gelehrter

AMANDA AND HER ALLIGATOR by Mo Willems Harper Collins $17.99 hardcover Whenever Amanda goes away, her stuffed alligator grows impatient for her return. A handful of charming vignettes unfold before a wonderful surprise ending. Alligator has all the charm of Pigeon, Elephant & Piggie rolled together... those are the stars of Mo Willems’ other wonderful books in case you were wondering! Hooray for Amanda & Her Alligator is an instant classic in the bedtime story genre! – Magoo Gelehrter

THE CROWS OF PEARBLOSSOM by Aldous Huxley Little Brown $16.95 hardcover A lost Huxley manuscript, long out of print, has been brought out again and illustrated by the marvelous Sophie Blackall. The story by Aldous Huxley is a charming and surprising tale of revenge. Even kids who may think themselves a bit too old for the picture book format will find the story and drawings equally captivating. It reminded me of the fantastic fairy tales written by Oscar Wilde. This unusual tale will fascinate any reader. I highly recommend it! – Magoo Gelehrter

For big readers… By Joe Murphy

Books make great gifts for grownups too! Here’s a selection of good reads that will make you think, and they all have a local angle to them. They’re just what you need on a cold South Coast night.

Parallel Lives – A Social History of Lizzie Borden and her Fall River by Dennis Binette and Michael Martins Hardcover 1178 pages $80 Historical Society curators Dennis Binette and Michael Martins will hold a book signing at the Fall River Historical Society on Sunday, November 20, from noon to 3pm. This, their second book on Lizzie, presents all new information gathered from her letters and notes, the personal stories of people whose parents and grandparents knew her, an other materials never before examined. The large volume is profusely illustrated with period photographs, many not previously published. It is carefully researched, intended to dispel enduring but inaccurate myths and observe in detail the late Victorian life of the city and its most notorious resident.

Branded on My Arm and in My Soul – A Holocaust Memoir by Abraham W. Landau edited by Joseph D. Thomas, Marsha L. McCabe, and Jay Avila Spinner Publications Hardcover $50 This riveting narrative follows Abraham Landau’s journey from his childhood in Poland in the 1920s and 30s, through his internment in thirteen labor and concentration camps, ending with his postwar life as a simple tailor and activist in his adopted community of New Bedford, Massachusetts. Landau kept his faith in the face of unspeakable atrocities and later fought to create the Holocaust Memorial in New Bedford. Illustrated with more than 140 photographs drawn from repositories such as Yad Vashem Archives, the United States Holocaust Museum, Aushwitz-Birkenau State Museum, German Federal Archives, and the Landau Family Collection. For more information, please contact Spinner Publications at 508994-4564 or visit http://spinnerpub. com/Branded_Home.html. Continued on next page

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

Continued from previous page

Classic Diners of Massachusetts By Larry Cultera The History Press Paperback $20

The doctor is always in.

On Saturday, November 26th at 11 AM, author Larry Cultera will visit Baker Books in North Dartmouth to read from and sign copies of his book, Classic Diners of Massachusetts. The Commonwealth was the birthplace of “night lunch wagon” manufacturing , the horse-drawn food carts which evolved into classic American diners. Few new diners opened for business after 1960, but the state has many of the best-preserved diners built during the early to midtwentieth century. Diner historian Larry Cultrera discusses this appetizing history and what should not be missed on the menus.

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On Thursday, December 1st at 6 PM, Anne Moore Burnett will visit Baker Books in North Dartmouth to read from and sign copies of Step Ahead of Autism.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Anne Moore Burnett uses the true story of her son Joey, who was diagnosed at the severe end of the autism spectrum at age two and went on to become a successful college student, to empower caregivers everywhere. Readers of Step Ahead of Autism will learn how to transform themselves— their intentions, beliefs, attitudes, and reactions—so that they have more influence over how their child does than they ever imagined possible. Burnett supplies a host of simple yet powerful tools you can use to meet the inevitable challenges of raising an autistic child at any age.

South Middleborough: A History By Michael J. Maddigan The History Press Paperback $20 On Saturday, November 26th at 2 PM, author Michael J. Maddigan will be at Baker Books in North Dartmouth to read from and sign copies of his book, South Middleborough: A History. Local historian Michael J. Maddigan charts the history of South Middleborough from its early years, with stories of the contentious ministry of Reverend Ebenezer Jones and the original Hell’s Blazes Tavern, into the twentieth century, with memories of Wareham Street’s “milk shake king” and feisty candy maker Lucy Braley. Join Maddigan as he reveals the fascinating history of South Middleborough and pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of a New England village

Money Minute Tips Tips for Charitable Giving

his holiday season put your money where your heart is by exploring charitable giving. First, choose a cause that puts your money on a “mission.” Rather than giving smaller gifts to many different charities, focus your donations on one or two organizations for a greater impact. To find charities that match your mission, search online. If you’re giving locally, Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts can help make sure you look for organizations that spend less on administrative or communication costs, and put the bulk of their funds toward the actual cause. You can ask an organization how much of your donation will actually go toward the mission, or you can research it on sites like Give.org. Unfortunately, there are many scammers out there who will try to get you to “give” over the phone or via email, so make sure the charity you’re considering This Money Minute is brought to you by: is legitimate. Remember, a real charity will never insist you provide your bank account information. www.bankfive.com • 774-888-6100

Combine your auto and home insurance for maximum discount

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

A holiday of music by David Prentiss

MUSICAL SOUTH COAST

othing brings out the spirit of the holidays more than music, and on the South Coast this holiday season there will be music of all types for everyone to enjoy. From local choruses to the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center to the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra, there are a host of wonderful musical experiences to make part of your holiday.

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

The Sippican Choral Society presents Christmas Through the Years on Friday, December 2, 8pm, at the Grace Episcopal Church in New Bedford, and on Sunday, December 4, 4pm, at Wickenden Chapel in Marion. Tickets are available at the Book Stall in Marion, and Baker Books (Special Orders Desk) in Dartmouth. More information about the Sippican Choral Society can be found at www.sippicanchoral.org. The wonderful chamber music series, Concerts at the Point, presents Musicians of the Old Post Road on Sunday, December 4,

3pm at 1912 Main Road, Westport. The Musicians are Suzanne Stumpf, flutes; Daniel Ryan, baroque and modern cello; and Michael Bahmann, harpsichord, fortepiano, and piano. These three artists will present a fascinating concert and lecture demonstrating the differences between Baroque, Classical, and modern instruments. The program will include movements from Bach’s Flute Sonata in B Minor, Vivaldi’s Cello Sonata in E Minor, Haydn’s Piano Trio in G Major, and other works. Instruments used during the concert will include one-keyed baroque

flute, a six-keyed classical flute, and modern flute; gut-strung baroque cello, modern cello, along with harpsichord, fortepiano, and modern piano. During the performance, the musicians will speak about the differences in construction and acoustics among baroque, classical, and modern instruments and the interpretive choices they make when using each instrument type. On Saturday, December 3 at 8pm the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center will be filled with Jingle Bell Rock featuring Eddie Money, Lou Gramm (of Foreigner) and Mickey Thomas (of Starship). They will come together for a night of Grammy-winning hits and holiday favorites. Their careers were built on hits such as Money’s “Two Tickets to Paradise” and “Shakin’ ”; Gramm’s “Jukebox Hero” and “Hot Blooded”; and Thomas’ “Sara” and “We Built this City.” It will be a memorable night of rock ‘n roll and holiday spirit. The Zeiterion also brings back the musical A Christmas Carol on Saturday, December 10 at 2pm and 7pm. Dickens’ classic tale of a soul lost and found, featuring Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the Ghosts of Christmas, Past, Present and Future is a holiday treasure. A Christmas Celtic Sojourn is entering its 9th year of sold out concerts around New England and is coming to the South Coast for the first time at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center on Sunday,

December 11 at 7pm. The performance will feature a wide variety of singers, musicians and dancers steeped in Celtic tradition, including Ruth Moody, from the The Waylin’ Jennys, Hanneke Cassel and Laura Cortese. The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra’s annual Family Holiday Pops Concert will take place on Saturday, December 17 at 3:30pm and 7pm. This year’s “Hear the Cheer” program will feature a beautifully decorated stage, Santa greeting children of all ages, and friends and family enjoying the music and the spirit of the holiday season together. Vocalist Steve March-Tormé (son of Mel Torme) will join the orchestra to sing holiday favorites and the New Bedford Symphony Youth Orchestra and the SouthCoast Children’s Chorus will also join in the holiday fun. On January 7 at 2pm the Greater New Bedford Choral Society will present their Annual Winter Concert featuring post-Christmas carols and anthems, “Te Deum” by Antonin Dvorak, “The Rubaiyat” by Omar Khayyam/Edward Fitzgerald/Gerald Dyck and “Three Rhythmic Spirituals” by William Grant Still. More information about the choral society is available at www.gnbcs.org. This season, make sure you bring the joyful and heartfelt music of the holiday into your life and the lives of those you care about. And just don’t listen—be sure to join in too!

Acushnet River

a ntiques www.NewBedfordAntiqueDealers.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! • Mon.-Sat. 10-5 • Sun. 11-4

Curious and unique gifts Join us for coffee on New Year’s Day Introducing

“A shop not to be missed on the way to Cape Cod.” —The Boston Globe

72 Kilburn Street • New Bedford, MA 508-992-8878 www.AmericanAntiqueBedCompany.com

Directions: Easy access from Rte 195. Traveling east (from Providence) take exit 16, turn left at stop sign onto Belleville Ave. to Kilburn St. Traveling west (from Cape) take exit 17, Coggeshall St. turn left and left again at lights (Belleville Ave.) to Kilburn St.

trinity repertory

company

adapted by Joe Landry Dec. 9 – 31 • Tickets start at $15 (401) 351-4242 • www.trinityrep.com 201 Washington St. • Providence • RI • Season sponsored by

The South Coast Insider / December 2011

TAROT-SCOPES by The Celtic Cricket and his family of psychics at the Silver Willow

We use the tarot to predict your horoscope. If you’d like more in depth and personal information, stop by our shop— The Silver Willow in Rehoboth, MA for a private tarot reading. Aries – Life seems really good, but take a look at the people around you. Your emotions are high, but are these compliments sincere? Take this time to really look at situations and demand respect. Taurus – You’ve made some great accomplishments this year, but remember that every storm has an eye. Enjoy your victory; you have earned it, but prepare for a struggle ahead. It’s far from over so take this time to reflect on what you need to succeed.

Get your Mass License to Carry Now enrolling for the

NRA Home Firearm Safety Course (required for a MA LTC or FID Card)

Also offering the UTAH CCW Permit Class Valid in over 30 states E-mail us for class schedules or to enroll

Train@FlintArms.com 1068 Slade Street Fall River, MA 02724 Retail Store now Open!

or visit us at

www.FlintArms.com 508-567-1442

Gemini – Don’t settle into couch potato mode. Now is the time that nothing major is moving in your life. You will be tempted to settle down and let it all pass by, but action can open opportunities. Get off the couch and do something productive. Cancer – Your financial recovery is on a slow but steady path to finding balance. It is a hard road and although you care for others, it is a time when you need to focus on you. Remember that it is difficult to take care of others when you do not take care of yourself. Leo – Now is the time for action. You want security or a relationship and you want it now. You have to become the fierce lion and go after what you want. The cowardly lion had to seek his courage, you need to own yours. Virgo – You’ve been through quite a storm. It’s time to shake yourself off and take a look around you. If you don’t access your situation now, you will not see the success that you achieve. Smell the roses after the storm, it’s when they are the freshest and most awake, as you should be. Libra – The definition of insanity is to do the same thing over and over, yet expect a different result. Don’t

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

drive yourself mad. Try a new approach to your situation and you will notice that you can achieve great things. Scorpio – Things are going pretty well for you now socially, but don’t lose sight of who you are. Don’t go making any changes in your own individuality to meet the needs of a new job or relationship. It’s time to be yourself more than ever and realize that this is what attracts people to you. Sagittarius – Strap on your boots and get ready for a ride. Things are really balanced and good in your life, but an opportunity is coming your way for you to advance. Look around you for a door opening and take it. If you have an opportunity to learn a new skill or return to school, do it! The benefits will be extraordinary. Capricorn – Don’t let your pride get in the way of your goals. You may not feel as though you need help in your situation or project, but don’t be afraid to ask for it. If you try to carry this burden alone, you will come up short. Call in a little help from a friend. Aquarius – You’re being a Diva and this road will lead you to becoming a sleeping beauty. If you don’t stop being so wrapped up in your own fairy tale life, you will miss out on great moments with others. Stop looking in the mirror and take a look at the world instead. Pisces – Snap out of your soap opera! You need to stop whining about the mistakes of your past and start making positive changes. The attention you are seeking is only half the value of a true friendship. Drama is no way to live unless you never want to experience something real.

ONGOING Visit CoastalMags.com for extended listings and to sign-up for our free weekly events email AHA! Night: Downtown New Bedford comes alive with Art, History and Architecture. Every second Thursday of the month. 508-996-8253. www. ahanewbedford.org Buttonwood Park Zoo, 425 Hawthorn Street, New Bedford. 508991-6178. www.bpzoo.org Common Fence Music, 933 Anthony Road, Portsmouth. 401-683-5085. www.commonfencemusic.org

Are You Searching for a Good Job with a “Great” Company? Gold Medal Bakery is now accepting applications for a

Part-Time Sanitation Worker *

Responsible for industrial cleaning of walls, floors and production equipment. Earn $12.60/hr. to start while working in a clean, safe work environment. • Must be at least 18 years old

• Alternating start times of 6am/4am. Must be willing to work Saturdays

To apply, complete application #1 at

Or Apply in person (Mon-Fri 9:00am–4:30pm) at Gold Medal Bakery 21 Penn Street Fall River, MA

Marion Art Center, 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. 508-748-1266. www. marionartcenter.org

Located in Fall River, MA, Gold Medal Bakery has been in business for almost 100 years, producing and transporting bakery goods to major supermarkets.

Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan Street, Fall River. 508-3241926. For schedule of events visit www.ncfta.org

Adult Communities For 55+

New Bedford Art Museum, 608 Pleasant Street, New Bedford. 508-961-3072. www. newbedfordartmuseum.org New Bedford Whaling Museum, 18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford. 508997-0046. www.whalingmuseum.org Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street, Providence. 401-421-2787. www.ppacri.org

• Must be able to work on heights, enter confined spaces, operate a forklift, and work in hot temperatures around running machinery

www.goldmedalbakery.com/jobs

Four Corners Arts Center, 3850 Main Road, Tiverton Four Corners. 401624-2600. www.tivertonfourcorners. com/artscenter

Memorial Hall, 124 Bay Street, Rehoboth. 8-11pm. 508-252-6375. www.contradancelinks.com

• Must be able to pass a drug test

Now accepting applicants for 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. Call for more information and a private showing of a model.

Oakwood

– Swansea – 508-324-1279

North Farm

Westport

– Somerset – Apartments 508-676-9700 508-636-6775 Equal Housing Opportunity

The Nutcracker Suite Christmas Shop — est. 1981 —

$5 OFF

$20 Purchase with this ad

22 Mill Street – Newport, RI

Located just off Thames Street between Rockport & Starbucks

www.nutcrackernewport.com 401-846-7385

Stone Church Coffee House, 280 High Street, Bristol. 401-253-4813. www.churchstreetcoffeehouse.com Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington Street, Providence. 401351-41242. For schedule of events visit www.trinityrep.com Veterans Memorial Auditorium, One Avenue of the Arts, Providence. 401421-2787. www.vmari.com Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 508-994-2900. For schedule of events visit www.zeiterion.org

t re nd s e t te r s i n h a i r s t y li ng color, cuts, foils, permanent eyelashes and feather extentions Custom Architectural Millwork

Doors Windows Flooring Mouldings n Antique Reproductions n

774-644-2353

oldfallriver@gmail.com

$10 OFF foil $5 OFF haircut wITH ASHLEY (new clients please)

282 new boston road • fall river, ma

508-673-3923 The South Coast Insider / December 2011

Save thousands in tax credits & rebates! Plus 20% on your gas bill. Now’s the time! Replace your old gas-fired heating system

Attention: Homeowners/Contractors • Reinforced concrete septic tanks (1,000-10,000 gallon capacity) • Leaching chambers • Landscaping wall blocks & manholes • Manufactured & delivered brick face & plain concrete pre-cast steps (1-8 steps) (different styles available 4’ to 8’ wide) • Riser/covers to build-up your septic covers • Pre-cast sonatubes

23 Alberto Drive • Westport, MA

508-678-4666

www.bristolcountyprecast.webs.com

December 2011 / The South Coast Insider

Seasons Greetings

— The Law Offices of —

Karen S. Hambleton

Workers Comp • Social Security Disability • Personal Injury

Homer protects me... YOU can count on ME to fight for your rights! 34 Welby Road • New Bedford, MA kshambleton@yahoo.com 508-207-0282 For complete mail order information, call (508)998-2012, stop by today or visit us

Manufacturers of Portuguese sausage and other fine quality products

online at www.linguica.com

384 Faunce Corner Road North Dartmouth, MA 02747

FESTIVAL THEATRE

Make a Memory

presents

This Season at The Z!

Drumline LIVE

THURSDAY & FRIDAY, DEC 1 & 2, 8PM

Family

Fun!

A Christmas Carol SATURDAY, DEC 10, 2PM & 7PM

A Christmas Celtic Sojourn SUNDAY, DEC 11, 7PM

SATURDAY, DEC 3, 8PM

Rock!

FEATURING EDDIE MONEY, LOU GRAMM OF FOREIGNER, AND MICKEY THOMAS OF STARSHIP

JULY 20-22, 26-29

Christmas

WITH BLOCK PARTY

Jingle Bell Rock

Holiday Traditions

P arty!

New Bedford Symphony Orchestra

Holiday P OP S

FAMILY HOLIDAY POPS

BROADWAY’S BIG FAT MUSICAL COMEDY HIT

SATURDAY, DEC 17, 3:30 & 7PM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

It begins with a ticket...

www.zeiterion.org 508-994-2900 Zeiterion Performing Arts Center FREE GARAGE PARKING - FULL BAR

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2012’s HAPPIEST MUSICAL COMEDY!

C O A S T

508.994.2900 • WWW.ZEITERION.ORG • GROUPS (10+) 508.997.5664 x23

ZEITERION PERFORMING ARTS CENTER A ticket to HAIRSPRAY is the Perfect Holiday Gift! Tickets $30 – $45

I N S I D E R

C A L L

5 0 8 . 6 7 7. 3 0 0 0

The latest technology with on time personalized service. Permanent Crowns in ONE Visit! • Digital X-Rays • Root Canal Specialist ON SITE Accepting New Patients • Office Participates with most Insurance Companies

Dr. Elina Fooks D.M.D.

Dr. J.P. Van Regenmorter, D.D.S.

Dr. Aaron Campini, D.M.D.

401-624-9177 dutchmandental.com

1359 Main Road, Tiverton, RI

Where you know your banker, and your banker knows you... let’s keep it local! [Pictured from left to right] Matthew R. Ledin, Vice President Commercial Lending Joseph T. Baptista Jr., President & CEO Nancy E. Stokes, Senior Vice President Lending Arthur V. Diedrich, Vice President Commercial Lending Paula M. Botelho, Vice President Commercial Lending Anthony Medeiros, Vice President Commercial Lending

1-888-MECHANICS (632-4264) www.Mechanics-Coop.com

Member FDIC Member SIF

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654 State Road • Dartmouth, MA 508-997-1010 www.dartmouthbuildingsupply.com/showplace — Store Hours —

Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm, Thu. 9am-8pm, Sat. 9am-5pm

Get off the fence…heat with a Pellet Stove

P43 Pellet Stove

Family Owned and Operated for 55+ years

43,000 BTU

“Come feel the heat”

LUNCH AND DINNER

10% OFF NOW $2,492

The Magoni’s Family Wishes Everyone Happy Holidays • Family dining, open 7 days • M-F Lunch specials $6.95 • M-W Dinner for 2 with a bottle of wine $30

• Famous prime rib, homemade sauces and dressings

Full menu/value meal menu with desserts

Plan a holiday party, small function, shower or collation

•

FRESH quality • Serving food, not frozen portion

$2.00 OFF PROPANE RE-FILL OFFER EXPIRES: 12/ 31/2011

controlled

•

• Weekly specials • Gift certificates available 681 Riverside Avenue • Somerset, MA 508-674-4335

www.magonisrestaurant.com T O

Reg. $2,769

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703 State Rd. • No. Dartmouth, MA

508-993-5577

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

1038 Aquidneck Ave. • Middletown, RI

401-848-9288

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

OPEN SUNDAYS: 11-4pm NO. DARTMOUTH ONLY

C O A S T

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In Office MRI & Physical Therapy Specializing in:

• Robotic Arm Assisted Procedures • Joint Replacement Surgery • Orthopedic Surgery • Hand Surgery

(508) 646-9525

• Arthroscopic Surgery • Pediatric Orthopedics • Sports Medicine

www.coastal-orthopaedics.com

Dr. David W. Bullis Dr. Jerald W. Katz Dr. Richard W. Smith

Dr. David M. Boland Dr. Brad E. Green Dr. George J. Raukar

Dr. Jeffrey I. Gassman Dr. Kevin N. Mabie Dr. James M. Worthington

We guarantee you an appointment this week and maybe even today!

Morton Home Care Selected as one of the 2011 top home health agencies in the United States.

Morton Home Care is proud to be named to the 2011 HomeCare Elite™, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the nation. If you or a loved one would like more information about home health services provided by Morton Home Care, please call 508-880-9145 or visit us online at www.mortonhospital.org

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Heart Care at Southcoast. % Top 5 in U.S. Again! That’s not just us talking. It’s HealthGrades — the nation’s leading independent health care ratings organization. In fact, Southcoast has been named a recipient of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for heart care by HealthGrades. If you have heart problems, it’s good to know that the most experienced and established heart program in the region is just minutes away at Southcoast Hospitals.

Our 2012 HealthGrades report card HealthGrades Specialty Excellence Awards • Recipient of the HealthGrades Cardiac Care Excellence Award™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 • Recipient of the HealthGrades Cardiac Surgery Excellence Award 2012

• Recipient of the HealthGrades

Coronary Intervention Excellence Award 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Clinical Achievements • Ranked among the top 5% in the U.S. for overall cardiac services 2012 • Ranked among the top 5% in the U.S. for cardiac surgery 2012

• Ranked among the top 10% in the U.S. for

cardiology services 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 • Ranked among the top 10% in the U.S. for

coronary interventional procedures 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

HAPPY HOLIDAY WISHES FROM Clifton

All of us at Clifton Healthcare Campus would like to extend warm holiday greetings to members of all faiths in our community. We wish you Joy, Happiness and Peace for the coming New Year.

CLIFTON REHABILITATIVE NURSING CENTER 508-675-7589

CLIFTON OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION CLINIC 508-675-0329

Compassion Dignity Comfort CLIFTON ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY 508-324-0200

CLIFTON HOSPICE SERVICES 508-675-7583

CLIFTON HEALTHCARE CAMPUS

WILBUR AVENUE, SOMERSET, MA 02725

Proud to be Celebrating Over 50 Years of Dedication to Excellence.