the south coast January 2012 / Vol. 16 / No. 1
coastalmags.com
Shape Up in 2012
Volunteer this year Keep your resolutions Simplify your life
Health & Home
Go Green! Solar power shines
Get fit & stay fit Heating system tips
Business Good riddance 2011!
Wine & Dine Some like it hot South Coast restaurants
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“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.
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Debby Almeida, M.D. Eleni Rethimiotakis, M.D. Heather Mantyla, N.P. Amanda Orszulak, P.A. Irena Gesheva, M.D. Anne Marie Treadup, M.D. Elizabeth Quann-Babineau, N.P. Joyce Vitale, N.P. Thomas J. McCormack, M.D. Paul Blauner, P.A.
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ONLY AT THE Y Try the Y
YMCA SOUTHCOAST
OPEN HOUSE
January 9th-15th M-F 9-11 am 1-3 pm 5-7 pm Sat & Sun 11 am-3 pm
There’s a unique combination at the Y. Little ones build skills and self-esteem. People connect while strengthening body and mind. The Y offers everything from weights and fitness equipment to improve well-being, to kids programs that nurture their potential through learning and play. At the Y, your membership means more. Plus as a YMCA Southcoast member not only do you have access to our five branches, you can use your membership at any Y in New England.*
Join the Y in January and receive $25 Y Bucks to be used for any future Y program or activity. Become a member during the open house you’ll be eligible to win some great prizes. Visit our website and download a complimentary guest pass to try the Y. Financial Assistance Available
(l-r) Irving Restituyo, MD, Sylvia Goncalo, RN, William Thornson, PA-C, Flavia Thornson, RN
www.avalonmedicalspa.net 2
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
*Some restrictions may apply. See ymcasouthcoast.org for details.
ymcasouthcoast.org DARTMOUTH | FALL RIVER | MATTAPOISETT | NEW BEDFORD | WAREHAM 508.993.3361 508.675.7841
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JANUARY 2012
Contents In Every Issue
YOUR HEALTH
BUSINESS bUZZ
4
14
36
6
8
38
From the publisher
On my mind: Weird, just weird by Paul E. Kandarian
Dateline: South Coast
18
By Stacie Charbonneau Hess
20
Get and stay fit
24
by The Celtic Cricket
22
30 40
44
Kids’ music By David M. Prentiss
New Brain & Spine Center
Maintain your heat
EDUCATION
46
A new G.I. Bill By Joyce Rowley
By Cynthia Shuler Gilchrist
GREEN SOUTH COAST
26
Solar power shines by Elizabeth Morse Read
Be a volunteer by Jay Pateakos
Streamline your life by Elizabeth Morse Read
FOOD NOTES
32
Good riddance 2011 By Stephen C. Smith
MUSICAL SOUTH COAST
Book Picks: Books that help by Magoo Gelehrter
By Joyce Rowley
YOUR HOME
COVER STORY
16
by Elizabeth Morse Read
42 Tarot-Scopes
A drinker’s tale
Keeping resolutions By Stephanie A. Blanchard
Hope is real By Micheal J. Vieira
South Coast dining By Paul Letendre
Wine NOTES
34
ON THE COVER Hot stuff By Alton Long
The back roads of the South Coast are a great place for a winter jog or walk. Whether you make resolutions or not, the New Year provides an excuse to focus on your health and happiness. Photo by Nicole Monforti The South Coast Insider / January 2012
3
FROM THE PUBLISHER January 2012 / Vol. 16 / No. 1 Published by Coastal Communications Corp.
We live in “interesting times.”
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Ljiljana Vasiljevic
Those two words are a “Chinese curse,” though no Chinese source has been identified. But yes, these are,
Editors Joe Murphy Michael J. Vieira, Ph.D.
truly, interesting times. Whether you agree with Stephen Smith’s description of
Contributors Stephanie A. Blanchard, The Celtic Cricket, Cynthia Shuler Gilchrest, Stacie Charbonneau Hess, Paul E. Kandarian, Paul Letendre, Alton Long, Tom Lopes, Jay Pateakos, David Prentiss, Elizabeth Morse Read, Joyce Rowley, Stephen C. Smith, and Michael J. Vieira
2011 as an annus horribilis or not, we welcome 2012 with the hope that it will be a better year. To help make that happen, this issue provides some good ways to kick off the new year. We review resolutions, offer suggestions for you, your home, your
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 ©2012 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.
Circulation 30,000 Subscriptions $25 per year
world. Help somebody else; Jay Pateakos talks about the benefits of volunteering, and Elizabeth Morse Read offers ways to streamline your life. Want to make a change? The new G.I. Bill is making it easier for veterans to go to school. Need to get in shape and want to stay fit? Joyce Rowley offers some suggestions. Paul Letendre points out some cool restaurants for a chilly January day—or night. And David M. Prentiss takes a look at music programs for kids. Our wine advisor, Alton Long, shares some hot tips for warm winter drinks. Still not satisfied? Check out some special deals from our advertisers, and for up-to-date listings and things to do, go to www.coastalmags.com. Let’s expect the best of things in 2012!
Address The South Coast Insider 144 Purchase Street • PO Box 3493 Fall River, MA 02722
Enjoy,
Tel: (508) 677-3000 Fax: (508) 677-3003
Website http://www.coastalmags.com
Ljiljana Vasiljevic Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
E-mail editor@coastalmags.com Our advertisers make this publication possible–please support them
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
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Call 508-997-2880 www.whalerscove-assistedliving.com The South Coast Insider / January 2012
5
ON MY MIND
This is very weird by Paul E. Kandarian
I quit smoking OctOBER 16. That’s not the weird part. The weird part is how easy it was and that I haven’t gained a single ounce. Now, that’s weird. I’m fully expecting to wake up some morning with a lit cigarette in my mouth and 30 pounds around my middle that weren’t there the night before. It’s very weird, very weird indeed. But I’m loving it. A lot. I’ll tell you how I did it shortly. Funny thing about smoking. It doesn’t take much to get started. Or as any smoker, or former smoker knows, restarted. Being immensely stupid helps, helps a lot. Really. Because no right-thinking person with anything resembling a brain would willingly put a glowing, red-hot tube of carcinogens in his mouth and suck. I’m not a stupid man, but when it comes to smoking, I’m as dumb as a sack of spent butts. Like most smokers, I’d quit before, a bunch of times. The most recent was January 5, 2005, which I remember because it’s the birthday of a close friend, and the next day I was going on a trip to the Caribbean which seemed to be a good time to chew some nicotine gum and wean myself off butts. It worked, too, and I was good for the next fiveplus years. My son joined the Army in 2009 and reported for basic, ironically, on January 5 the next year. In the service, it seems, smoking is as prevalent as pushups and drill sergeants barking at you to do more of them. My son smokes, and I blame myself a lot for that, but still, it was ultimately his choice to be stupid and start. Ah, like stupid father, like stupid son. Helluva legacy, that. Now mind you, over the years I wasn’t smoking, I’d bum a butt every so often, usually while drinking at a party, and that was that, I’d smoke one, never feeling the urge for more. I’d do this every few months, a couple or few times a year. Piece of cake. Got it licked, I figured. But in April of 2010, after my son was done with basic, I drove him to Fort Drum in upstate New York, about a seven-hour haul. 6
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
So what the hell, I bummed a few on the way up. Then a few more that night, as we stayed in a hotel before I dropped him off at the base the next day—after bumming a few more. I dropped him off, stopped at a convenience store and bought my own pack, convincing myself it was just one pack, I’d smoke that and no more. I did mention that smokers are immensely stupid, right? Add delusional to that, too. Smoking is an addiction and who’s more delusional than an addict? So there I was, the tobacco monkey on my back again, sucking the oxygen from me, one coffin nail at a time. Then in spring of this year, I screwed up my Achilles tendon, which over the next few months just kept getting worse to the point of needing surgery. Which happened November 7. Wisely, my doc won’t operate on patients with nicotine in their blood. Some pesky little possibility about constricted blood flow and clots and death, blah-blah-blah.
I’d never thought of that, but then again, I was a smoker, why would I think anything I was doing relating to smoking was inherently dangerous? So I quit, on October 16 to be exact, at quite possibly the worst time to quit. You see, I’m an amateur actor and was in the middle of doing a play in Middleborough, which is pretty nerve wracking in itself, and even more so facing surgery three weeks later. If there ever was a time to completely rationalize smoking, maybe even ramping it up to the chain-smoking level, this would be it. But no, I had to quit, and soon, to get the nicotine out of my system and pass the pre-surgical testing. A friend told me about a book by Englishman Allen Carr, called, believe it or not, The Easy Way to Stop Smoking.* Now I’m not a man who does things the easy way because as I’d mentioned earlier, I’m stupid and stupid people tend to over complicate everything. And an easy way to quit smoking? C’mon, easy? Really? Really. It’s too much to completely explain here, but basically Carr—a former five-deck a day dude—says smokers are brainwashed into thinking smoking is just too hard to quit, it’s got the grip too deeply in us, that nicotine’s hold is as powerful as any drug.
I liked smoking, as odd as that sounds, if it weren’t unhealthy and expensive, I’d still be puffing away. And that’s crap. So Carr says. And which to me, and millions of others who’ve read the book since it came out in 1985 and actually quit, is rock-solid true. If you follow the directives of the book—while you are still smoking, by the way, you don’t quit until you finish reading—you’ll stub the last cig and that’ll be that. Was for me. I won’t lie and say I didn’t have urges, I did, but nowhere near as strong as the past times I’ve quit. Compared to them, this was a walk in the park. While breathing a whole lot easier besides. And I liked smoking, as odd as that sounds, if it weren’t unhealthy and expensive, I’d still be puffing away. So I didn’t have that “I hate smoking so much, I’ll do anything to quit” mindset. But still, I quit. On October 16. I haven’t smoked since, haven’t gained an ounce, and hopefully won’t ever light up again. So far, so, so, so good. Weird, I tell ya, just weird. But I’m loving it. A lot. *Editor’s Note: be sure to see the listing for Allen Carr’s book in our Baker Books column on page 28.
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The South Coast Insider / January 2012
7
DATELINE: SOUTH COAST
News, views and trends... from Mount Hope Bay to Buzzards Bay by Elizabeth Morse Read
Across the region n The holiday madness has died down and everyone’s ready to hibernate. But if you spend your free time indoors, make sure some of it is spent in the theatres and galleries on the South Coast. And there’s still plenty of things to do outdoors—sharpen your ice skates, get out the sleds or build a snow fort for an afternoon of exercise and fun. n Your town’s farmers market may be closed for the season, but it’s open year-‘round at the Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket! For details, call 401-3124250 or go to www.hopeartistevillage. com. Or, to find farm-fresh food near you, go to www.semaponline.org. n If you haven’t had your flu shot yet, make it a priority. And, although the black bear sightings have disappeared, there are deer everywhere, so drive carefully.
The Commonwealth’s congressional districts have been redrawn, down to nine from ten—and Barney Frank has decided not to run for re-election! Hats off to one of the smartest and most colorful members of Congress and a great advocate for the South Coast! n
There’s more movie madness afloat —The Golden Scallop, a “mockumentary” about seafood contests, was filmed in Wellfleet and will debut in the spring. And for more movie madness, check out the Fairhaven listing below. n
8
A day-trip to Boston may be wellworth the travel to see the astonishing “Pompeii” exhibit at the Museum of Science. Go to www.mos.org or call 617-723-3500 for details. n
n Every year the UMass/Amherst dining services hands out souvenir “Tastes of Home” cookbooks at Parents Weekend—the 2011 edition features recipes submitted by the children of Anne Ferreira of Assonet and Maureen Teefy of Marion. n The Southcoast Health System has consolidated some of its regional services to form the Southcoast Visiting Nurse Association (VNA). Home health and hospice care agencies in Fall River, Fairhaven and Wareham will be restructured and operate out of Fairhaven, Little Compton RI, Fall River and Raynham. For more info, call 508-961-5270 or 774-627-1966. n And who says you can’t go for a boat ride in winter? Take a seal-watch cruise on the Cuttyhunk ferry out of New Bedford’s State Pier. For schedule and ticket prices (which includes lunch!), go to www.cuttyhunkferryco. com or call 508-992-0200. n If you’re over 50, check out the day trip (Jan. 16) to Foxwoods Casino sponsored by the New Bedford Senior Travel Program. Call 508-991-6171 for complete details. n With the drawdown of US troops in Iraq, many of our region’s servicemen and women will be transitioning back home here, looking for work, afford-
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
able housing and needed services. Every city and town in Massachusetts has a veterans’ services coordinator, but we can all show our appreciation for their service by helping them in any way we can. Starting this month, the Registry of Motor Vehicles will offer an option to have the word “veteran” appear on driver’s licenses or state identification cards upon renewal (that option is already available for license plates) to give our troops well-earned recognition. n The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized three South Coast organizations for their contributions to the region’s economic development. The Economic Impact Award went to the Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care, the New Bedford Regional Airport and Bristol Community College. The Schwartz Center for Children in Dartmouth was awarded the 2011 Southcoast Education Leadership Award. n 2011 was a bumper crop year for cranberries—A.D. Makepeace, the largest cranberry grower in the world and part of the Ocean Spray cooperative, netted 38 million pounds, and global demand for this distinctivelyMassachusetts fruit continues to grow by leaps and bounds.
For the first time since 2009, Social Security payments will include a 3.5% cost of living increase this month. First-class postage will be increased by one cent later this month, so stock up on your “forever” stamps early! n
Attleboro n Sign up for winter art classes at the Attleboro Arts Museum—call 508-2222644 or go to www.attleboroartsmuseum.org.
Berkley n Scout’s honor! Seventeen-year-old Eagle Scout Steven Masterson presented the town with a new gazebo for the Berkley Common, the product of a volunteer project he organized.
Center, consolidating and streamlining services and treatment for anyone on the South Coast suffering from neuological problems. The Lloyd Center for the Environment received a $5,300 Cultural Investment Portfolio Grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council for its environmental research and education programs. The Center’s Osprey Room Observatory is listed as one of the Commonwealth’s top-15 “Special Places.” Visit the Nature Center at the Lloyd Center or just walk along the trails—go to www.lloydcenter.org for a schedule of events. n
in the old Superior Courthouse. Find out what’s scheduled by going to www.cmgfr.org. n Southcoast Physician Services has opened a Family Medicine practice at Truesdale Clinic and is accepting new patients. For more information, call 508-730-3100. n The Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care has been pledged a $2 million contribution by The Charlton Charitable Trusts. The cancer care center located at Charlton Memorial Hospital will now be named the Ruth Charlton Mitchell Pavilion.
A 10-room schoolhouse in a remote village in Afghanistan has been named for Sgt. Robert J. Barrett, the first city resident to die in that country in 2010. The city’s main post office branch has also been named in his memory. n
Bristol Enjoy the animals and ambiance at the Coggeshall Farm. Go to www.coggeshallfarm.org or call 401-253-9062.
Fairhaven
n
Indulge in an evening of opera at Blithewold at the Jan.27 Winter Concert. Bring your friends and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Call 401-253-2707 or go to www.blithwolde.org/event/show. n
Buzzards Bay n Cadets aboard the Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s training ship, the T.S. Kennedy, will be distributing clothing and medical supplies when they visit Ecuador this month.
Dartmouth After 40 years, the Hawthorne Country Club has closed its doors and has gone up for auction. Hopefully, a buyer will re-open the doors in the spring. n
For the fourth consecutive year, the Dartmouth High School’s Marching Band was crowned national champions at the US Scholastic Band Association’s competition in Annapolis MD. n
n Southcoast Health Systems has opened a new Southcoast Brain & Spine Center at its Hawthorne St.
n First it was Falmouth, then it was Dartmouth and now foes of Fairhaven’s proposed two wind turbines are threatening to file suit, even though the site’s been cleared and the turbines are en route from China.
The movie trailer for Fairhaven, the independent movie filmed here last year, can be seen at www.fairhaventhemovie.com. And, speaking of movies, Town Selectman Charlie Murphy, a professional actor in his own right, has been actively promoting the South Coast as a film location. n
Freetown Meditech has given up its plans to expand its business, which could have created 1,000 new jobs, due to conflicts with the state’s Historical Commission. n
Lakeville The Lakeville Library will be home for the soon-to-be-realized non-profit public access cable TV channel for the town. The town’s advisory committee is working on agreements with area cable providers. Stay tuned! n
Fall River To find out what’s happening at the Narrows Center for the Arts, call 508-324-1926 or go to www.ncfta. org. And you can still take to the sea at Battleship Cove in January—go to www.battleshipcove.org or call either 508-678-1100 or 1-800-533-3194. n
Catch a performance of The Firebarn at the Little Theatre Jan. 19-29. For complete info, visit www.littletheatre.net or call 508-675-1852. n
Home sweet home! The Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River (the only Children’s Museum on the South Coast) has found a permanent home n
Marion n Marion resident Anne Moore Burnett has written an excellent guide for parents of autistic children, “Step Ahead of Autism,” based on her own experiences with her son—who went on to become valedictorian at Bishop Stang High School and is now a senior at Brown University.
Continued on next page
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
9
Continued from previous page
Your First Choice For Rehab Care. Our Rehabilitation Programs are ideal for short-term rehab care after surgery or a hospital stay. The Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy programs are designed to get superior results and ultimately a safe return home. To learn more, please contact the Admissions Director at the center nearest to you: Catholic Memorial Home Fall River, MA 508-679-0011
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n The town is moving forward to become a “Green Community,” striving to be more sustainable and proactive in the conservation and use of energy.
New Bedford n Tight budgets didn’t prevent the city’s Working Waterfront Festival from receiving a $40,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts for the September 2012 event.
For the first time in three years, the greater New Bedford unemployment rate fell below 10%, a full point lower than the same period last year. n
n Bristol Community College celebrated the first anniversary of its highly successful eHealthCareers programs by formally launching a nursing program, which will start in the fall of this year. It will be the first “hybrid” nursing program in Massachusetts, combining both on-site and online instruction.
The 16th annual Moby Dick Marathon will be a three-day event celebrating Herman Melville’s classic novel, Jan. 6-8. Free lectures, a dinner, quiz games and the 25-hour marathon reading at the Whaling Museum are scheduled. For complete details, call 508-997-0046 or visit www.whalingmuseum.org.
n
n Enjoy an afternoon of opera with the Greater New Bedford Choral Society’s Winter Concert on Jan. 7 at the United Pilgrim Church of Christ. Call 508644-2419 or visit www.gnbcs.org for complete details.
Have you heard about the 881-pound tuna that was confiscated by NOAA because it was accidentally caught in a net? The story went viral and brought international attention to the regulatory woes faced by the region’s fishing industry. n
n Get in the act and enjoy a performance of “Gee’s Bend” at Your Theatre Jan 19-29. For more information, call
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
508-993-0772 or go to info@yourtheatre.org. n When you’re downtown, stop by the CVPA University Art Gallery. For details, go to www.umassd.edu/cvpa or call 508-999-8555.
Southeastern Massachusetts Health & Rehabilitation Center
n Although casinos are now on the planning table, there’s already conflict about a provision in the law giving preference to federally-recognized local Native American tribes. Developer KG Urban Enterprises had eyes on turning a brownfield site in New Bedford into a casino and feels that the provision puts them at a competitive disadvantage.
In a landmark decision, the city received a $2.6 million settlement and a 3.2 acre property from three railroad-related groups responsible for the contamination of the old railroad depot. The city had borrowed $12 million for the environmental clean-up for what will eventually be the railway station should South Coast Rail arrive. The city is investigating whether to seek damages from other entities who contributed to the toxic pollution, such as Cornell Dubilier and Aerovox.
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Enjoy an evening of free fun and entertainment at AHA! Fire and Ice, Thurs., Jan 12. Go to www. ahanewbedford.org or call 508-9968253 for a full schedule of events— and don’t forget that there’s plenty to do, enjoy and eat at AHA! After Nine. n
Our Sisters’ School is looking for volunteers to help the students succeed. For more information, call 508-9941255 or visit www.oursistersschool. org. n
n Enjoy a Harpsichord Recital with Paul Cienniwa at the New Bedford Art Museum on Jan. 19. Call 508-9970046 or go to www.newbedfordartmuseum.org. n Objective Logistics, a started-in-thebasement restaurant management software company, has landed $1.5 million in new venture capital to finetune and market its MUSE software.
Multilingual Staff in Portuguese, Spanish, & Creole Tour our 5,000 sq. ft. Rehab Gym! Located Directly on Busline
4586 Achusnet Ave. New Bedford, MA
508-998-1188
What do you look for in a Hearing Health Care Professional? Meet Eugene P. Antonell, BC-HIS Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist MA LIC 80, RI HAD 00242
Call 508-993-6467
Now Open, New Location…Call Now!
Day Habilitation Program
— Integrity — MA Hearing Society Past President — Experience — Serving the Hearing Impaired Community since 1989 — Commitment — Patient Satisfaction is Our Commitment — Technology — Continuous Education in Hearing Instrument Advancements
HEAR BETTER NOW 516 Hawthorn St. • Suite 2 North Dartmouth, MA
508-999-4300
www.bettercommunity.com
www.hearbetternowllc.com
Continued on next page
— Program Offerings — Speech Therapy • Registered Nursing Occupational Therapy Fitness & Exercise Groups Social Skills Groups Quality Services for Your Loved Ones and Family Members Better Community Living, Inc.
Your Goal is Our Goal “Better Hearing”
We make you feel at home.
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
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Continued from previous page
Home Repairs
Don’t miss the excitement at the Ocean Explorium—call 508-994-5400 or go to www.oceanexplorium.org. n
And find out what’s happenin’ at the Buttonwood Park Zoo (including the Zoo Choo train and Carousel, weather permitting). Call 508-991-4566 or visit www.bpzoo.org. n
• Windows, Siding & Doors • Roofing , Gutters & Skylights • Decks, Railings, Access Ramps • Bathroom/Shower Remodeling • Blown-In Insulation & Bulkheads • SunSetter™ Awnings & Sunrooms • Free Estimates Quality Products & Service Since 1983
For a schedule of upcoming 2012 events at the Zeiterion, contact the Z at 508-994-2900 or go to www. zeiterion.org . n
n Keep informed on what’s happening in New Bedford by visiting www. destinationnb.org, www.newbedfordguide.com, www.downtownnb. org. and www.newbedford360.com.
home improvement co., inc. 119 Alden Road • Fairhaven, MA
Portsmouth
CallStevens.com
508-997-9495 • 1-800-696-9495 MA HIC #101251 • RI Reg: #13863
Enjoy a Gathering of Fiddlers and Fishermen on Jan.24 or Ellis Paul on Jan. 21 at Common Fence Music, 933 Anthony Road. For a schedule of events, call 401-683-5085 or go to www.commonfencemusic.org.
n When the kids are out of school, head for the Providence Children’s Museum. Call 401-273-KIDS or visit www.childrensmuseum.org. n Get in the act at the Providence Performing Arts Center! Watch Shrek: The Musical Jan. 19 or Rain: A Beatles Tribute Jan. 27. For more information, call 402-421-2787 or go to www. ppacri.org.
To find out what’s playing at Trinity Rep—go to www.trinityrep.com or call 401-351-4242. n
Rehoboth n Find out what’s happening at the Carpenter Museum, sponsored by the Rehoboth Antiquarian Society. Learn more at www.carpentermuseum.org or call 508-252-3031 or 509-252-5718.
Rochester
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Providence Little Rhody is at the forefront of the locavore movement. Many area businesses, hospitals and institutions have signed up for Farm Fresh Rhode Island’s Veggie Box produce delivery program, which provides a 10 lb. box of fresh fruits and vegetables every other week. Mayor Angel Taveras arranged for city employees to sign up and pick up their boxes at City Hall.
n Neighbors Katelyn Bellamare, 7 years old, and Lauren Sylvia, 17 years old, were both selected to perform in the Providence Festival Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at the Providence Performing Arts Center Dec. 9-11.
Somerset
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Pack up your ice skates and head for the rink at Kennedy Plaza! For more info, visit www.kennedyplaza.og/ skating-information, or call 401-3315544 x5. n
n The RISD Museum of Art is a little gem and worth a visit. Call 401-4546793 or go to www.risdmuseum.org.
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Phew! The new Somerset-Berkley Regional High School has received approval for a $50 million reimbursement from the Massachusetts School Building Authority, roughly 60% of the costs for the new school, slated to open for the 2014/2015 school year. n
Taunton n Kopin Corporation’s “Golden—i” wireless computing headset has received the coveted Recognized Product Innovator of the Year (2011) Award from the Technology Services Industry Association.
Tiverton Find out what’s going on in town— go to www.tivertonfourcorners.com or www.farmcoast.com. n
It Always Feels Like Home
Wareham n Online station www.warehamradio. com now offers local programming and talent to the greater Wareham audience. For more information, go to warehamradio@gmail.com.
Sign up for “Flick and Float” Jan. 13 at the YMCA Southcoast in Wareham. Call 508-295-9622 or go to www. ymcasouthcoast.org for complete details. n
Westport Woodsman, spare that tree! The 200-year-old linden tree in Central Village will not be cut down to make way for new sidewalks. n
865 Main Road, Westport, MA 508-636-2572 Daily 9:30-5:00 www.partnersvillagestore.com
n Westport High School junior Allyson Duarte was selected to dance in NYC’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade with Camp Broadway, a national theatre arts education company.
$5 OFF NEW CLIENTS
Enjoy an afternoon of classical music with The Claremont Trio on Jan. 15 (snow date Jan. 29), part of the Concerts at the Point series. For more info, go to www.ClaremontTrio.com or www.concertsatthepoint.org. n
Specializing in deep tissue massage Injury work, prenatal and senior rates 1211 G.A.R. Highway Swansea, MA
508-672-2227
Westport Rivers Vineyard and Winery, the largest in New England, recently celebrated its 25th year in operation, now producing up to 6,000 cases of Riesling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay annually. For info about tours and tastings, go to www.westportrivers.com. n
$5 OFF $30 PURCHASE Offer valid: Mon.-Thu.
Swansea Mall 262 Swansea Mall Drive • Swansea, MA (508) 324-0400 www.unwinedbistro.com The South Coast Insider / January 2012
13
YOUR HEALTH
A drinker’s tale by Stacie Charbonneau Hess
Once upon a time, there lived a man who had a drinking problem. Each day he would wake up and say, “Today is the day. Today is the day I will not have a drop to drink. It’s a brand new me. I will exercise and call my friends and do something to make the world a better place.” Yet each night, as the sky began to darken and sorrows to illuminate in the sky, the man could not seem to control his thoughts anymore. I really want a glass of wine, he would think. Just one glass surely won’t hurt. After finishing one glass of wine, the man felt better. His sorrows seemed to melt away, he felt more love for himself and other people. He felt happy. Just one more, he would think
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
to himself, and then I will surely feel much better. Just one more won’t hurt. Needless to say, the man did not stop at two or even three glasses of wine. Once he opened the cork on the first bottle, he often could not stop until he drank all the alcohol in the house, or until he fell asleep, whichever came first. The man had taught himself to play piano at a very young age. When he was young, he would play and play for his family, his friends, and anyone who would listen. His mother would say, “Listen to this boy. He’s going places.” His teachers encouraged him to become a professional musician. Over time, desires began to over-
whelm the man and he turned away from music. He turned instead to drinking to satiate his desires. Soon all the desires all melded into one desire for alcohol. There was never enough wine to drown that out. In the beginning, the man’s family watched him with curiosity. What was it? they would think, about alcohol, that made the man want to drink so much that he lost his senses? They took care of him. They drove him home when he visited from far away, or they gave him a soft bed to sleep in. They gave him aspirin in the morning when he awoke. But one day, many years after the man took his first drink, his family decided to say something. “Man,” they said, “You can’t go on like this. This drinking is ruining your life, destroying your relationships, getting in the way of your work, and besides, you look so thin and gray. And whatever happened to your music? Why don’t you stop drinking? We love you.” The man balked. He spat off a colorful array of expletives and stunned his family with his vehement anger. Where did that come from, they thought. “We were just acting out of love,” they told their friends. The man kept to himself more and more. The days grew shorter and the nights grew longer. The day was a sort of torture to the man as he waited for the dark to grant him permission to take a sip of his wine and begin to forget the worries of the day. Years went by. One day, the man got a call from his mother who was very old and in bed and she said, “Son, you must come and see me and say goodbye for I am very old, and surely I will die soon.” The man could not believe that so many years had gone by but sure enough when he visited his mother her hair was white as snow and she was very thin and frail. “Son,” she said from her bed as he sat down beside her, “There is something I have been wanting to tell you for a very long time. Your family tried to tell you this, but you did not believe them. I love you. Your drinking makes
you different, and I am sad that you missed so many years of your life feeding the thing that takes you away from others, but here is what I want to tell you: “It is never too late. It is never too late to say you are sorry. It is never too late to say you love someone. There is something bigger than time to heal wounds and that something is forgiveness.” (and when she said that word several years disappeared from her face) “I hope you will forgive me for all the things I have left undone in my life, and I hope you will use the years you have left to begin living right.’”
It is never too late to say you are sorry. It is never too late to say you love someone.
“But mother,” said the man, “I am very happy. I don’t have any ties to anyone. I don’t have a job or any responsibilities. My wine keeps me company and makes the world seem less lonely.” “What if one day there is no more wine?” asked the mother. “What will you do to be happy then?” “No more wine!” thought the man out loud. “Well, I can’t imagine that day. I guess I would be very sad indeed.” “So you depend on wine to be happy, well that is not happiness at all. That is cowardice.” At this the man was silent. He had never thought of it that way. He did not think he lacked courage, but he
finally saw that this was perhaps so. The man went home that night after holding his mother’s hand as she breathed her last breath. He looked at his cabinets which contained only wine, and opened each bottle one by one and poured the contents into the sink. For several days, the man could not move from the couch. He shivered and shook. He dreamed and woke and did not know which was a dream and which was real. After three days, he woke up to a woman kneeling by his bed, giving him small sips of water from a cup. “Who are you?” he asked the woman. “I am here to take care of you. Shhh….” She said gently. “Do not try to talk. You must rest.” For thirty days the woman did not leave his side. The man gained weight and the color came back into his cheeks. He began making plans for the future, something he had not done since he was a boy. He began craving hugs from his as yet unknown grandchildren and family he had left behind so long ago. One day the woman said, “You are well enough now for me to leave you. I have stocked your cabinets with good things to eat. You must go and get a job and begin making the most of the days you have left.” The man got a job playing piano at a department store. He wrote his own songs and seemed to infuse them with the feeling that he used to get when drinking wine. He felt less lonely. He felt love for others. Soon, the man’s music became legendary. One day, his family went to the mailbox and saw a small box with no return address. Inside was a disc, which they immediately played. From the first note, the family knew that this was music the man had written, and that he no longer needed the wine. They were joyful and danced and sang, and although they never saw the man again, they were happy knowing that he was out there, somewhere, making the world a better place.
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
15
COVER STORY
Volunteering by Jay Pateakos
If you take a look at many of the feasts and festivals that you’ve seen around our region for countless years, you’ll typically see one common denominator: they are dying. It’s the same in small towns, which struggle to get people to run for any type of political office or volunteer for a town board. Apathy runs rampant People, especially my generation, the 30-somethings to 50-somethings, are not taking the time to volunteer. In my town of Marion, the town has been forced to post classified ads in local newspapers to announce positions on volunteer boards that no one wants a part of. The town’s biggest party, The Marion Block Party, was cancelled in 2011 because the people who had run it for so many years just couldn’t do it anymore, and there was no one there to pick up the slack. At many of the area’s Portuguese festivals, the average age of volunteers is well past 70 and you can rarely catch a glimpse of any of the young people giving a hand. We’re talking everywhere….New Bedford, Fall River, Taunton and all the small towns in between. I’ve talked to many people about why they do—or don’t—volunteer their time to help out local organizations and the answers are all generally the same: they are just too busy. I’m not a big fan of that excuse. We just think we are busy, but we find time
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to golf, shop, fish or whatever else we want. In fact, the truth is we all tend to prioritize what we want to do over everything else. We are no busier than our parents or grandparents, many of whom worked in the mill for a dozen hours a day, went home to cook meals for their families before shoveling off to night school to learn English.
No apparent reward There’s something lost that we have to find. Working a soup kitchen on Thanksgiving with my 10-year-old, I was taken aback by the abundance of people, actually too many volunteers, who helped out that Thanksgiving morning. Why then and not other times? They, like me, wanted to feel good about themselves by volunteering for the needy before going home to a fat turkey. But the problem with most volunteering is that there are no apparent rewards like that; just a feeling that you are helping an organization that needs it. That may not be enough for people.
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
“Young people just seem to not want to get involved. There’s a disconnect there; a lost faith in the public and in government. There are kids that volunteer through the high school because they have to, but when it comes to the big things like the festivals, [volunteering] is just lacking,” said John Lobo, Neighborhood Liaison for the city of New Bedford. “A lot of the people who do volunteer do so because they’ve had a good life and want to give back but this is missing in the younger people.” Some businesses, seeing the need for volunteers, have started pushing their employees to volunteer in order to help the community around them and show each employee the value of volunteering. One such business is Citizens-Union Bank and its President and CEO Nicholas Christ. Feeling so strongly about the issue to write a spirited op-ed piece in the Herald News earlier in the year, Christ, who encourages all his employees to give back to the community in their own ways each year, called out to residents and businesses alike to get involved.
Turbulent times Citing the turbulent economic times, Christ said it may be easy for some to put aside the needs of others within the community in order to satisfy their own, but that volunteering your time helps to strengthen the roots of what makes up a great community. “Author Elizabeth Andrew once said, ‘Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.’ It is the responsibility of those in positions of leadership to encourage, support
and recognize volunteerism. Those individuals who have compassion and display it through their service to others are truly the heroes of our community,” said Christ. “We have always made it a goal to energize the spirit of service among our employees here, as well as other business leaders with the hope that it will resonate throughout the City’s workforce.”
Strengthening the roots Christ noted the region is stronger when all businesses encourage their employees to participate in some form of volunteerism, whether that takes the shape of community service or some other private venture. Christ isn’t alone. Dozens of other businesses like Mechanics Cooperative Bank, BankFive, Allied Waste and many other companies go out of their way to encourage volunteering among their ranks. Sadly, much more is needed. “Rewards are not always calculated in dollars and cents; the feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction that comes from helping someone else is an unparalleled reward, and it will do wonders in further developing the character of this great city,” said Christ, who volunteers on nearly a dozen boards and committees in the greater Fall River area. “Fall River is fortunate to have many capable and caring individuals running volunteer organizations that it is easy to find one to help.”
A volunteer initiative The same holds true for Bristol County District Attorney Sam Sutter, who announced a Volunteer Initiative four years ago for prosecutors and office managers and other staff, who have since volunteered 11,000 hours of service to the community. “I say to every person, during their job interview, that one of the prerequisites for being hired is to agree to volunteer in the Bristol County community, on their own time, between 12 and 26 hours per year. 12 hours for the district court prosecutors and 26
hours for everyone else,” said Sutter. “I make volunteerism a job prerequisite because I want to hire individuals who want to make a contribution to their community, in addition to the work they are doing for the district attorney’s office. I am a fervent believer in volunteerism. I believe it is very good for the person doing it, very good for the individual or organization receiving it and very good for the community at large.”
Seeking inspiration When asked his thoughts about the struggles facing organizations looking desperately for volunteers, Sutter said when he was young, the clarion call of the 35th President of the United States, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was crystal clear. “‘Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.’ For me and many of my generation, his and his brother’s leadership was inspirational. Maybe that is what is missing,” said Sutter.
In this season of giving, resolve to make a difference in someone’s life…
Volunteer for Adult Literacy Our students have asked for your help!
Volunteer to help an adult learner with basic language, reading, writing, math, or computer skills. New volunteers are welcome at any time.
For more information call Dr. Michael Gauthier, Volunteer Facilitator
(508)997-4511 x2419
Inspiring youth Lobo agreed, saying youth could be inspired if adults just took the time to listen to them, something that doesn’t always happen. “Youth want to express their opinions and ideas without worrying about being criticized, but adults don’t always take the time to listen, telling them that their ideas won’t work, that they’ve already tried this or that and it didn’t work, but youth need to find their own way, and we need to take the time to listen,” said Lobo. “Youth have things to say, and if they know they are being heard, they will get more involved. They are our future.” For those interested in volunteering, a call to any local organization like a Child and Family Services, United Way or local town hall, people will be happy to point you in the right direction. There are many to benefit from your efforts, starting first with yourself.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren We provide support to grandparents raising grandchildren with monthly support groups, information, special programs and referral services.
When: 3rd Tues. of every month 6-8pm Where: 133 William St., 1st fl, New Bedford
Call Brenda Grace at 508-996-0168 Funded by Coastline Elderly Service/EOEA Executive Office of Elder Affairs
Notre Dame Community Federal Credit Union — Established 1938 —
Our success depends upon our members’ loyalty and trust — HOURS — Mon. & Tue. 8:30-4:30pm Wed. & Sat. 8:30-12 Noon Thu. 8:30-5pm • Fri 8:30-6pm
659 Eastern Avenue • Fall River, MA
508-676-1067
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
17
COVER STORY
Streamline your life
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—William Wordsworth (1770-1850)
“Tis a gift to be simple, ‘tis a gift to be free…” – Elder Joseph Brackett (1797-1882)
by Elizabeth Morse Read
You don’t have to be a Shaker or a Buddhist to appreciate the wisdom of those sentiments. We burden ourselves with possessions and grudges and self-inflicted worries. Imagine living with less stress, junk and distractions. It’s time to down-shift and de-clutter our lives—and make a conscious decision every day to get out of the ruts we get ourselves into. Do you have a co-worker who secretly drives you crazy? A sibling or child who has you on speed-dial when they’ve messed up again? A “fair weather” friend who cries on your shoulder endlessly but is never there for you? If you really think about it, they interfere with your life because you let them. At work, at home, or out socially, learn how to just say NO with a smile. Your blood pressure is at stake here—do you really deserve to be in constant turmoil because of others’ behavior? Lower the boom and say (over and over), “Sorry, I’m busy right now,” or “Sorry, I can’t do that for you,” or “Sorry, my budget doesn’t allow for that.” You well deserve time to yourself to day-dream, read a book, finish that project, take a bubble bath or a leisurely stroll without someone or something sinking its claws into you. Don’t let someone else’s nonemergency problems highjack your priorities. And, could you survive a day—or
“The world is too much with us; late and soon, Getting and spending, we lay waste our powers…”
an hour—without your cell phone, or computer, or credit card, or bringing work home? Scene: you’re having a much-needed heart-to-heart with your troubled teen—and someone’s cell phone chirps. Or: you’re picking up the dry-cleaning and some last-minute groceries on the way home, and you’re already thinking about the presentation you have to make tomorrow and so you forget the hamburger? Or: you’re late to your son’s awards ceremony because you couldn’t escape from some co-worker’s retirement party. Think about it. These are choices you made, and you’re responsible for the collateral damage, pure and simple. Take a deep breath and focus on what’s really important at a given moment. It doesn’t matter how many things you can juggle—it’s which ones you did well when they needed doing.
What’s littering up your life? Does it seem that no matter how much space you have, it’s eventually stuffed with—stuff? Why do we hoard junk, then go out and buy more? Our closets and attics are groaning under the weight of unused and unnecessary possessions, many of which were impulse purchases bought on credit. And then we buy special boxes to put all the junk in and rent a storage space to put the boxes in! Get out from beneath the possessions pile and get rid of it all, piece by
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
piece. If you can’t sell it, give it away and let it make someone else happy. Take inventory whenever you enter a room or open a drawer in your house. Do you really need that extra floor lamp? That jacket you haven’t worn in three years? That keyboard or weed-whacker or old bicycle in your basement? Never-used belongings are unnecessary responsibilities and burdens—get rid of them. Even things you consider useless could be a boon to someone in need. Old cell-phones can help victims of domestic violence. Leftover construction materials can help build a home through Habitat for Humanity. Old eyeglasses, sewing/knitting materials, beat up sneakers, you name it —there’s someone out there who can use it, and there are many charities and non-profit organizations who can help you help others. Are paper piles threatening to swallow your computer desk or kitchen counters? Grab one every time you watch TV and sift through it – hey! There’s that tax bill you couldn’t find last year! The user’s manual for the electric drill! A note from your daughter’s teacher! Your brother’s wedding photos! Recycle what can be and put the rest in labeled folders. Do the same and clean out your computer files—two year old emails? Rough drafts of your granddaughter’s term paper. Delete, delete, delete. Clean out your fridge/freezer—bury the mystery meats, shriveled parsnips
and half-empty Siberian condiments jars. Pull out a “junk drawer” and sift through it while you watch a football game – use worn out Tupperware containers to catch all those crayons, batteries, spools of thread, assorted nails, screws, picture hangers. Go through your glove compartment and trunk. Packets of ketchup, torn street maps of Quebec City, dried-out Chapsticks, seven ice scrapers, a punctured soccer ball. Duh.
One man’s trash… Pile up everything you don’t need and will never use again. Find a new home for everything—and start by contacting the local churches and charitable organizations—Salvation Army, the Red Cross, the SPCA, the United Way, Catholic Charities. Find a neighbor who needs what you have at www.freecycle.org. Go on-line and search for “where to donate”—you’ll find a special group somewhere who can channel your stuff to where it’ll do the most good. If you have a favored target group or cause you want to help (children in developing countries, service-members, veterans and their families, the disabled, etc.) you can find a contact. Go to www.missminimalist.com. If you want to know if an organization is legitimate, check them out at www.charitynavigator.com. To find an organization that will pick up your offerings, go to www.donationtown.com. Some organizations offer free shipping to their warehouse. All organizations should be willing to give you a letter for your taxes. (Just don’t put it in that paper pile!) So, start anew and afresh. De-clutter your life and get rid of the distractions, the junk and the emotional baggage!
COPD may have taken control of your breathing. A Clinical Research Opportunity
You don’t have to let it take control of your life. If you’re at least 40 years old and a former or current smoker struggling with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), you may qualify to take part in a clinical research study. If enrolled, you may receive at no cost: • Study medication • Study-related care • Compensation for your time and travel
Consider joining a study for COPD. Take the first step. See if you qualify.
Read these books! The Joy of Less, by Francine Jay No Impact Man, by Colin Beavan (a Westport native!) The Story of Stuff, by Annie Leonard The South Coast Insider / January 2012
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YOUR HEALTH
New Year’s resolution #1
Get fit & stay fit! What is it about the New Year that makes us want to try to get in shape again? The idea of starting with a fresh slate? of wanting to shed some of those holiday pounds? or the nagging thought that Spring is just ahead holding up last year’s bathing suit for us to squeeze into? And guys, maybe this is the year that you’ll go back to being a 38 waist. Here’s a quick visit to two venues for fitness, and some special tips from their experts:
vacationing—for example, you like to hit the ski slopes—remember that whatever you enjoy doing now, you have to exercise to be able to keep doing it in the future. Recognize that stress can put on the pounds. Choosing healthy food and exercising helps you manage stress better. Stay hydrated even though it’s
426 Fitness Wants YOU Steve Skitek, manager and trainer at 426 Fitness in Warren, RI said that the average American gains four to seven pounds between Christmas and New Year’s. Here are his top tips for getting in shape and staying in shape (Hint: exercise, exercise, exercise!): If your New Year’s resolution is to lose weight and you’re changing your diet, remember that exercise releases endorphins. Endorphins are those hormones that make you feel better and will help you make better decisions if you’re tempted to overeat. If you like to be active when
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Want to get in shape? Climb a wall at the Y. winter. In cold weather you burn as much energy as in the summer. Exercise builds bone density in men, too. Although people exercise for many reasons, remember that both men and women get osteoporosis. “We look at clients posturally when they come in,” said Skitek, who has 20 years in exercise training and also oversees the clubs trainers. “We Need help? The 426 Fitness team are ready to help.
Kelly Machado
by Joyce Rowley
especially look for rounded shoulders, tightening in the lower back and hips out of alignment.” He said that 426 Fitness offers corrective exercise such as Yoga and Pilate’s. “If you want to be more involved with your health, we’re here for you,” said Mark Lombari, owner of 426 Fitness. The 40,000 square foot fitness center has every type of workout imaginable: an obstacle course, a batting cage for batting practice, a full golf driving range, and the largest rowing studio in New England. In fact, there’s so much room, Lombari donates 5,000 square feet to the local school district for youth wrestling. Parents can drop off their children at dance or wrestling and spend time exercising, too. 426 Fitness is located at 426 Metacom Street in Warren, RI. Visit them online at www.426fitness.com
Youth Fitness Programs with a Capital “Y”
Department of Social Services programs can become a member for free. And if you want to try it out, there’s even a free Guest Pass available online.
What can you do at the Y? Just about everything! Swimming of course, available at 3 of the 5 locations. Then there’s basketball, climbing walls, dance, indoor soccer, lacrosse, floor hockey, and karate, to name just a few activities. And the Y has something for everyone—from 6 months old to the young at heart. Bonnell started when she was 10 years old at a Y camp, and she’s been going ever since. She’s been employed 34 years with Y, the last eight years at the New Bedford YMCA as Vice President of Operations. Here are some of her tips for children’s fitness: Keep active as a family. Take a hike or a walk together on weekends at one of the local conservation areas. Do everything in moderation. The preschool and after school programs include a half-hour of physical activity, as well as a safe place to do homework and healthy snacks. Teach your children how to choose healthy snacks like drinking water instead of soda or choosing a salad when eating out. Don’t reward children with a fast food meal. Not only are fast foods high in empty calories, this sends the wrong message about food. The Y’s Winter Program Guide can be found at www.YMCASouthCoast. org. So this New Year, don’t just talk the talk. Walk the walk, or trail as the case may be, and bring the whole family along. It’s that simple.
With five branches serving the South Coast from Fall River to Wareham, opportunities to burn off those sugar plums are within walking distance for many of the area’s children.
Nancy LaRue Bonell, VP of Operations at the South Coast YMCA, said the Y’s winter programs start on January 2nd, just in time to keep your New Year’s resolutions. The Y is dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and their programs for kids fill most of their 30 page program guide, available online. With five branches serving the South Coast from Fall River to Wareham, opportunities to burn off those sugar plums are within walking distance for many of the area’s children. And the after-school programs include transportation to the Y. At the Y, no child, family, or adult is turned away. Financial assistance is available for anyone who wants to be a member. Foster children in
Do you care for someone who is 60 or older?
Do you have questions about services available to you as a caregiver? Contact Bristol Elder Services at 508-675-2101 www.bristolelder.org
Serving the Attleboro, Fall River, & Taunton areas
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
21
YOUR HOME
Maintaining your home heating system by Cynthia Shuler Gilchrest
As cold weather approaches, now is the time to evaluate your home heating oil tank. A proactive approach not only reduces your risk of an oil release but can grant you peace of mind. The cleanup cost of an oil leak can cost thousands of dollars. Further, a well-maintained furnace means lower fuel bills and cleaner emissions.
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Familiarity is critical Homeowners should be familiar with their entire heating system—the location and condition of the fuel oil tank and delivery line; where the delivery line runs; and approximately when the tank was installed. Fuel lines from your fuel oil tank to your furnace may be beneath the floor, and they are the most common sources of leaks. They eventually corrode when in direct contact with concrete and can be coated
with plastic to prevent direct contact. If the fuel oil tank is buried, you should know its location in relation to the building, as well as when and how much fuel oil to order from the fuel oil delivery company.
Maintenance is key Tank owners should consider several approaches to help prevent leaks and spills, protect the environment and reduce their liability.
How will I know if my tank has leaked? If your furnace seems to be using more fuel than usual, ruling out unusually cold weather or a furnace malfunction, your heating oil tank may have a leak. And oil can leach through concrete, contaminating the underlying soil, private drinking water wells and groundwater, surface water at nearby ponds or streams. Leaking oil can also impact indoor air quality, sump pumps and storm drains. If there is water in your tank, your oil delivery company or environmental consultant can confirm how much water is present. A small amount is normal, but
insurance, and cleanup cost for oil spills could be as high as $100,000. Consider purchasing insurance for your oil tank from your local oil company or homeowners insurance provider.
Cleaning contamination If you discover that your tank is leaking, you must take immediate action. First, have all heating oil pumped from the tank. It is the tank owner’s responsibility to evaluate the extent of contamination, determine any threat to human health and the environment, and clean up any contamination caused by the leak. Homeowners in Massachusetts are required
Not all oil releases are covered by insurance, and cleanup cost for oil spills could be as high as $100,000. several inches may mean water is getting in through a hole—which means oil could be getting out.
My tank leaks If you suspect an oil leak or spill, immediately contact your oil delivery company and fire department for assistance. In Massachusetts, call MassDEP’s 24-hour statewide emergency response number 888-304-1133. Responsibility for a spill can ultimately fall on the homeowner. Review your homeowner insurance policy carefully to find out if you have a pollution exclusion clause. Not all oil releases are covered by
to hire a Licensed Site Professional (LSP) for fuel oil releases. Common Sense Environmental, Inc., located in New Bedford MA, employs LSPs who are experienced in helping property owners navigate the Massachusetts Contingency Plan (MCP) guidelines for cleaning up oil and hazardous materials. Common Sense can be reached at 508-858-5606 or www.CommonSenseEnv. com. Once a cleanup is complete, you should keep a copy of the entire cleanup report for future reference by lenders and potential buyers.
Are you caring for a disabled adult in your home? Beacon Adult Foster Care pays caregivers a tax-free stipend to care for your loved ones at home, as an alternative to assisted living or nursing home placement. Adult Foster Care (AFC) is a MassHealth-funded program that provides 24-hour home care services for people with chronic health care needs. AFC lets people maintain their daily routines with ongoing supervision and assistance from a qualified live-in caregiver. An AFC member must live in Massachusetts and have MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth insurance. An AFC caregiver must be 18 years of age and may not be the spouse or legal guardian of an AFC member.
For more information call 774-202-1837 or visit our website www.beaconafc.com The South Coast Insider / January 2012
23
YOUR HEALTH
Southcoast announces Southcoast Brain & Spine Center New center brings comprehensive care to local patients
S
outhcoast Health System recently announced the formation of the Southcoast Brain & Spine Center, a regional center that provides the comprehensive delivery of care for patients with neurological brain and spine disorders through surgical and non-surgical treatment options. “Patients no longer have to leave the region to receive advanced, comprehensive health care services. We have invested in the latest technology and facilities so our expert physicians can deliver advanced care locally, right here in the South Coast region,” said Keith A. Hovan, President & CEO of Southcoast Health System and Southcoast Hospitals Group. “The Southcoast Brain & Spine Center establishes a model of collaboration through a formal partnership of physicians and other specialists to ensure that the right care is delivered in a timely and efficient manner that is convenient for our patients.” Physician specialists in neurology, neurosurgery, physiatry and pain management collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of physical therapists, psychologists, chiropractors and nurses to offer the most advanced treatments and care available for neurological, brain and spine disorders. The main outpatient office is located at 480 Hawthorn Street in Dartmouth, providing patients with ample parking and easy access to Route 140 and Interstate 195, with two satellite outpatient offices located at 534 Prospect Street in Fall River and at 100 Rosebrook Way in Wareham. Inpatient care is provided at all three
24
(l-r) Matthew Philips, MD, Alvin Marcovici, MD, Michael Harrison, MD
Southcoast hospitals with surgical services offered at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River and at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford. The Southcoast Brain & Spine Center uses the most sophisticated techniques, treatments and technology to treat disorders of the brain, nerve and spine. The center treats patients who have a wide array of neurological and brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, headaches, stroke and movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. The center also treats issues specifically causing chronic back and neck pain, including disc disease and herniation and compression neuropathies, as well as injuries and disease of the brain, including treatment of cancerous and non-cancerous tumors and epilepsy. The center also has specialists who treat sleeping disorders.
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Surgical and non-surgical treatments are coordinated through Southcoast Neurosurgery, which includes the practices of neurosurgeons Matthew Philips, MD, Michael Harrison, MD, and Alvin Marcovici, MD, who are fellowship-trained in the nation’s leading neurosurgical centers. Southcoast’s neurosurgeons are pioneers in their field, bringing the latest surgical treatments—including minimally invasive surgery, microsurgery and skull base surgical techniques. Neurology services are offered through Southcoast Neurology and includes the practices of neurologists Bruce Abbott, MD, Michele Harvey, MD, Anna Somerto, MD, and Maya Vaysbrot, DO. Disorders affecting the nervous system often require lifelong care.
Southcoast Neurology provides a personalized, comprehensive approach to address the many aspects of complex neurological conditions to help patients achieve their goals and maintain quality of life. To help develop the most accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan, the neurology team offers an array of neurodiagnostic services, such as electroencephalography (EEG) and electromyography (EMG). The Southcoast Brain & Spine Center utilizes the newest technology to help diagnose and speed the recovery of its patients including the most advanced image-guided surgical navigation systems available. The center’s intra-operative monitoring system provides the vital precision needed in surgery on the delicate tissues and nerve pathways of the brain and spine. For the patient, this means an accurate diagnosis, greater safety, less trauma and shorter recovery times. Stereotactic radiosurgery is one of the most precise forms of radiation therapy used to non-surgically treat tumors in the brain. The precision offered provides the ability to preserve healthy tissues by delivering targeted radiation, with the help of threedimensional imaging technology, at much higher doses than traditional radiation therapy. Patients treated through the center also have a direct link to advanced services through the Southcoast Health System network of providers including oncology services at the Southcoast Centers for Cancer Care and home care services through Southcoast Visiting Nurse Association. For a complete list visit www.southcoast.org/map The Southcoast Brain & Spine Center is designated as a Blue Cross Blue Shield Center of Distinction based on best practices and quality of outcomes. For more information about the Southcoast Brain & Spine Center call toll free 855-778-0088 or visit www.southcoast.org/brainandspine.
Southcoast VNA opens community offices Southcoast Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) is opening community offices at 1822 North Main Street in Fall River and at 2444 East Main Road in Portsmouth, R.I. Its main office will remain at 200 Mill Road in Fairhaven. There is an existing community office located at 244 North Main Street in Raynham. “For more than 100 years, Southcoast VNA has helped people of all ages recover or live with illness or injury through the provision of compassionate and personalized care, wherever they call home,” said Sharon Jones, President & CEO of Southcoast VNA. “Our new community offices will allow our dedicated team of registered and licensed professionals to better serve our communities throughout the entire South Coast region.” Southcoast VNA provides comprehensive home health and hospice services, which foster improvement and maintenance of health, prevention of disease and disability and compassionate end-of life care. Services are available 24 hours a day, every day. Their home health care program offers services tailored to the specific needs of every patient including skilled nursing, specialized wound and ostomy care, advanced cardiac care, rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational and speech/language), infusion therapy, behavioral health services, in-home telemonitoring, medical social work, nutrition services, home health aides and health promotion and education. Southcoast VNA’s hospice and palliative care program offers specialized care for individuals with terminal and life-threatening illnesses including skilled nursing, physician services, pain and symptom management, inpatient care, palliative care, social work services, home health aides, drugs and medical supplies, complimentary alternative therapies, counseling, spiritual support, bereavement support and volunteer respite support. For more information about Southcoast VNA call 800-698-6877 or visit www. southcoastvna.org.
Diocesan centers get WiFi Each of the skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers in the Fall River’s Diocesan Health Facilities system is now set up for WiFi. This enables residents and their families to send and receive email or to access the Internet while residing at the facilities. Now residents can use computers and other devices to communicate with loved ones, catch up on news and entertainment, or use Skype to stay connected with friends and families. For short-term rehabilitation residents during their stays, and offers them options in staying connected while receiving rehab care before their return home. The Diocesan Health Facilities system includes Madonna Manor, North Attleboro; Marian Manor, Taunton; Catholic Memorial Home, Fall River; Sacred Heart Home, New Bedford; Our Lady’s Haven, Fairhaven; and Bethany Adult Day Health Center. The Diocesan Health Facilities system of care is sponsored by the Diocese of Fall River. The South Coast Insider / January 2012
25
GREEN SOUTH COAST
Power to the PEOPLE!
by Elizabeth Morse Read
There are spectacular strides and innovations being made across the globe, in the USA and right here on the South Coast. The solar power industry—along with all renewable energy industries— has gotten a lot of bad press recently, with the bankruptcy of Solyndra and Evergreen Solar, but it would be a serious mistake to turn our backs on this rapidly growing (and increasingly affordable) source of non-polluting domestic renewable energy.
Myth #1 The U.S. solar industry has fallen behind that of China. It’s true that many of the solar photovoltaic (PV) panels being installed in this country were manufactured in China, where massive government subsidies support the manufacturing companies—but (drum roll, please…), 26
those Chinese panels rely on solar PV components manufactured here in America. In 2010, 99% of U.S. solar PV components were exported to China and Germany, a positive trade flow close to $2 billion.
Myth #2 The Obama administration made a huge mistake allowing the Department of Energy (DOE) to issue loan guarantees to solar companies like Solyndra. While it’s true that some of these companies failed (which is not at all uncommon with start-up industries), there’s a lot more contributing to renewable energy company failures
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
that just bad judgment on the part of the DOE. For instance, Ener1, a Midwest manufacturer of lithium ion batteries needed to jumpstart the introduction of hybrid/electric cars, is in danger of failing because not enough hybrid/electric cars are being produced in the U.S.! Meanwhile, previous (Republican) administrations have provided trillions of dollars in loan guarantees and subsidies for the nuclear, coal, oil and natural gas industries, so it’s a case of the pot calling the kettle black… And then there’s the elephant in the room that fossil-fuel companies and government lobbyists don’t want to acknowledge: if average homeowners are able to drop off the centralized power grid by using renewable energy sources like solar and wind power in their own backyards, that means that everyday people will become energy producers, not just energy consumers—and excess power from this “distributed generation” can be
sold back to the utility grid. This prospect must be sending shivers through corporate boardrooms… And the up-front costs for installing solar panels on your home or business become more affordable every month. Numerous tax incentives and rebates offered by the federal, state and local governments, along with 0% heat loan and leasing options, make solar PV power a very attractive home improvement and money-saving measure. And the technology itself becomes more cost-effective and innovative every year.
Here comes the sun… Our Sun bombards the Earth with enough solar energy every hour to provide for all of humanity’s energy needs for a year. The technological challenge is figuring out how to capture, store and transmit that energy into useable electrical power. If any of you have ever grown vegetables in a cold frame, then you understand the basic principle of utilizing solar energy. If you’ve ever worn a black T-shirt on a sunny day, you understand solar energy (someone wearing a white T-shirt won’t feel as hot as you do.) In very simplistic terms, most residential solar PV panels are composed of silicon-based chips encased in flat, blackened glass panels in rows (or an “array”) that are all attached to an inverter device, which converts the sun’s rays into AC current you can then use to power your home, property, vehicle, etc.. Of course, living close to the equator or in a sunny location like the American Southwest means you can capture more of the sun’s rays every day, but with the rapid advances in solar PV technology, even not-sosunny places like New England or northern Europe can still maximize solar PV technology to keep their lights burning, minimize dependence on nuclear power or fossil fuels, and help slow climate change. For instance, Germany produces close to 20% of its electricity needs by having developed a “distributed generation” system of rooftop solar PV arrays that tie into the existing grid
infrastructure. In the Netherlands, solar PV cells have been embedded in the pavement of their many miles of bicycles paths, powering nearby traffic lights and street lamps, while utilizing already-in-use space. In sunny Spain, Onyx Solar has developed building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products such as PV glass for windows, outside “curtain” walls and even carports whose roofs generate power needed for hybrid/electric cars. And speaking of Germany, a notvery-sunny country (but a leader in utilizing solar PV power), the average
When you think that the Wright brothers achieved human flight only in 1903 and then we landed on the Moon in 1969, then it’s not so hard to envision that solar PV technology is a comparable technological leap in human evolution. annual household electricity consumption is about 4,000 kilowatts (kWh). Using fossil-fuel or nucleargenerated electricity costs at least $1,000 a year, whereas solar-generated electricity costs nothing after the initial installation costs—and it’s virtually maintenance free (no moving parts), as well as warranteed by the installation company for generous periods—and this is all after government rebates and tax incentives. The average American household uses a lot more electricity every year (mine uses @ 6.8 kWh), but comparable savings here are available by getting “off the grid.” And one of the best features of localized “distributed generation” is that there is less efficiency loss due
to long-distance transmission from a centralized power plant—and fewer blackouts. Solar PV panels are already powering highway signs across the US, providing power on spacecraft and mobile field equipment in the military. And increasingly, budgetsqueezed municipalities and school districts are installing solar PV arrays on rooftops and landfills to cut operating costs and save jobs. New Bedford recently became the first-in-the-state municipality to launch a solar program which could save the city as much as $10 million and power 1,500 homes, as well as schools and public buildings. ConEdison will be installing solar panels throughout the city through 2013, which could eventually generate up to 10 megawatts of electricity.
Living “off the grid” “Grid parity” is the point where it costs you the same to generate your own electricity as it would cost to buy it from, say, NSTAR. With recent developments in solar PV technology, we’ve reached the potential for grid parity, and it will soon become the cheapest form of generating electricity around the world. If developing countries could become power-sufficient without the infrastructure needed for fossil-fuel or nuclear power plants, myriad social, financial and political issues could be addressed in one fell swoop. This may sound like “future science” pipedreams to those of us who remember rooftops with TV antennas (instead of solar panel arrays), rotary phones and 8-track tapes, but it’s real, it’s rapidly coming to a neighborhood near you, and it’s going to revolutionize how we live, Washington and Wall Street notwithstanding. When you think that the Wright brothers achieved human flight only in 1903 and then we landed on the Moon in 1969, then it’s not so hard to envision that solar PV technology is a comparable technological leap in human evolution. Continued on next page
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
27
Continued from previous page
Solar on the South Coast And “green technologies” are becoming more and more common throughout the South Coast. For instance, Whaling City Transit of Westport has solar panels on its main plant roof and has seen its electricity costs plummet from about $500 per month to $500 per year. (In addition, they recycle their fleet’s used motor oil to heat the building, which saves them disposal costs, in addition to heating costs!) But here’s the best news—Konarka Industries (www.konarka.com—a spin-off of UMass/Lowell) is a recognized world leader in the development of cutting-edge thin-film solar PV technology—and their manufacturing facility is in New Bedford! By “repurposing” the shut-down Polaroid facility that was already set up for handling thin-film manufacturing, Konarka was able to move in at a much reduced start-up cost, re-hire many former Polaroid employees and start producing the newest generation of solar PV products. Flexible, lightweight and able to be colored, imprinted or molded to just about any function, Konarka’s thinfilm solar PV “Power Plastic” products have been used to electrify bus-stop shelters in San Francisco and imbedded into luggage and carry-on bags that can recharge your cell-phone or laptop while you’re on the go. In the interest of researching this article, I had my little house in Fairhaven (under 800 sq. ft., not counting a finished basement) evaluated for solar PV panels. I had cut down five trees in my south-facing backyard last year (so I could grow vegetables in raised gardens) and things are looking up. I’m extremely frugal and, at one point, was paying less than $60/month for electricity. But the bills kept creeping up, not matter what conservation measures I took (no AC or dishwasher, new EnergyStar refrigerator, solar/sensor outside lighting, etc.), so I contacted several solar PV installation firms, 28
including Second Generation Energy (www.SGEGroup.com) in Hopedale MA, after researching many solar installers last year. One attraction was that they are authorized dealers/installers of the newest-generation Sun Power panels (www.sunpowercorp.com) from California, which are not only smaller and convert almost 20% of captured sunlight (the highest rating right now in this part of the US) than do “traditional” solar panels, but they also have micro-inverters attached to each panel, instead of each panel being hooked up to a central inverter next to my electricity panel in the basement (which is less energy-efficient)—and they come with a 25-year warranty. Plus Second Generation Energy will handle permits, the rebates, tax documentation and loan/leasing paperwork, should I choose to go that route.
What are the costs and benefits? The size of your roof determines how large a solar array you can install, and the amount of electricity you want to generate determines how many panels you want installed. Do you want to generate all or only part of your annual electricity needs, or do you want to produce more than you need and sell the excess back to your local utility grid (called net metering)? Right now, the federal tax rebate for installing solar power is 30% of the installation costs. There are further state and local rebates and incentives —the current Commonwealth Solar Program grants up to $3,750 to qualifying Massachusetts residents, as well as a tax credit of up to $1,000 on installation and labor costs. In addition, public utilities are required to show that they produce a certain amount of electricity using renewable sources energy—or else pay a fine to the state. They can meet these requirements by “buying” Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) from homeowners who install solar panels, which means more money in your pocket. And then there are 0% heat loans and leasing options. In addition, by generating your own
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
electricity, you’re not worried about rising costs of utility-generated power. An average size (5 kW) home solar power system can generate close to $40,000 in energy savings over 20 years. Plus, according to a government study, homes with solar power sell twice as fast as homes without solar.
Where can you learn more? As with any major purchase or home improvement investment, you need to do your homework beforehand. Ask your electrician or contractor to recommend solar installers they’d use themselves. A lot of fly-by-night folks have jumped onto the solar PV installation bandwagon, and you don’t want to waste your time (or money!!) just because your cousin Vinny’s girlfriend’s cousin’s neighbor says he’s qualified. A reputable firm will perform a detailed on-site assessment at no charge—scammers will try to get you to commit by giving you a quote on the telephone after checking Google Earth. Learn more at the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (www.masscec. com) or the state’s Department of Energy Resources (DOER) at www. mass.gov or find out more about rebates, tax credits and other financial incentives at www.dsirusa.org. Get at least two proposal/quotes, and don’t be afraid to go outside your town to find good companies. Check out regional firms like New England Renewable Energy (www. NERenewable.com) , or small startup firms like Cape Cod Solar Energy Systems (www.e2solarcapecod) or an independent energy consultant like Clean Green Cities at www.cleangreeencities@comcast.com. So, light up your life! Start by joining the South Coast Energy Challenge —reduce your household expenses and energy consumption as well as your carbon footprint—and get a free home energy assessment through MassSave. To get started, go to www. southcoastenergychallenge.org.
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29
COVER STORY
Will you keep your New Year’s resolution? by Stephanie A. Blanchard
For many, resolutions go hand in hand with the New Year. An article in the The Wall Street Journal said that 88 percent of resolutions end in failure, according to a 2007 study by British psychologist, Richard Wiseman. Luckily, following through on a resolution can happen with the right tools and support. Professional life coach Donna Krone knows firsthand that change is hard. She left a successful career as a financial advisor to follow her true calling, life coaching. Each day, Krone helps her clients make changes and find their life purposes. “When my clients meet with me for the first time, they discuss changes that they want to make in their lives. A lot of times, those changes are for the wrong reasons. I help my clients get in touch with their true reasons for seeking change. Once clients tap into their own inner wisdom, they can use it to more fully live the life they were always meant to live.” Whatever resolution you want to keep—career, weight, family life, Krone’s own story about change will inspire. Here is what she told me, in her own words:
Listening to your intuition Like many of my clients, I felt un30
fulfilled in my career and sought a life coach’s help. He guided me through a change... I chose my college major and career by default. Since I was strong in math and science, and desired to make a difference, my guidance counselor suggested nursing. Four years later, I had a job that only partially suited me. Let me explain. As a nurse, I felt fulfilled comforting my patients. Unfortunately, the hospital’s fast-paced environment didn’t allow much time for it. Most days I felt disconnected from my patients, which frustrated me. One day, a friend invited me to a seminar on becoming a financial advisor. There, I heard that as a trusted advisor, I could develop long-term relationships with my clients and help them reach personal goals. I was in! Eighteen years later, I realized that like nursing, financial advising wasn’t a perfect fit. Although I was helping people, I found the financial focus restrictive. My inner voice whispered, “this is not what you’re meant to be
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
doing.” Over time, I couldn’t ignore it any longer. I worked hard as a financial advisor and built a full practice with 250 clients. I had an office, support staff and flexibility in my schedule. I felt knowledgeable and confident, but my career didn’t feel right. I was in a “creative dilemma.” In other words, there was tension between where I was and where I wanted to be. To make a long story short, I learned who I was and what I really wanted in my life through working with a life coach. He pointed out that I wasn’t looking for a career; I was seeking my true calling. Leaving my financial advising career and becoming a life coach wasn’t easy. It took me more than a year to make the break. It’s been 9 years since, and my evolution continues. Although my life-coaching career has had challenges, I’ve never questioned my choice. Following my intuition has helped me become the person I want to be, follow what I value, and express my true self. Now, I help my clients find their life purposes. Sometimes it’s through a career change, but not always. Many people would like to make a change, but fear the economy. Luckily, there’s opportunity, even in hard times. Here’s an example: My client was frustrated with his job and considered changing careers because he felt restricted and unfulfilled. Through coaching sessions,
he discovered that he was frustrated because he lacked a creative outlet. I encouraged him to take an art class. Over time, he realized that he didn’t want to leave his job. In fact, my client began to enjoy his work more. In other words, once he met that core desire, he felt more whole and more satisfied and didn’t need to change careers. Like my client, you can make a lessdrastic change and still achieve your true calling by starting small through volunteering or a hobby. Krone practices in Lakeville. You can read more about her and life coaching at www.sacredconversations.com or call 508-923-0126.
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31
FOOD NOTES
Restaurant wanderings by Paul Letendre
One filet of cod fish is not the same as the next, nor is a teaspoon of pepper, or a cup of vinegar. If the meal is to be spectacular, each ingredient has to be appraised. A recipe can’t explain how to do this. Great meals are created by cooks who have scientific precision along with artistic vision; those things and a bunch of know-how and experience. These meals are not created by the ordinary, sometimes uncaring cook. Restaurant kitchens each have their own flavor. Each is a combination of science, artistry and elbow grease. A commercial kitchen in a nursing home or a chain restaurant will usually be more science and less art. In these kitchens, although not many will admit to it, they are looking to produce consistently mediocre food. Great restaurant food is only found in the kitchens of better independent restaurants. It’s January. The weather stinks. Most of us are broke; we overdid the Christmas thing. We always overdo the Christmas thing. Restaurant owners feel your pain; they are paying for heating and plowing, taxes are due, and business is imitating the weather …it stinks. It’s not a good time of year to be in the restaurant business.
Crowther’s Restaurant I stopped by Crowther’s; it’s always a great place for a meal, a drink, or both. Bring your GPS if you are not native to Little Compton. (If you are from Little Compton, you can just have your chauffeur drive you to 90 Pottersville Road.) Kane and Kenny Lewis are the proprietors of this long lived and long loved place. Dave LaFrance, formerly the Country Harvest, is the head chef. A few of the kitchen and waitstaff
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Crowther’s is always a safe bet for a good traditional meal in a unique atmosphere, -without breaking the bank. You probably won’t be wowed, but you’ll never be disappointed: it’s that kind of place. Bundle up and take a January ride out to Little Compton; enjoy the countryside, enjoy the food, and give yourself a little something different.
Churrascaria Novo Mundo
have worked there since the eighties. I had a good chat with Kane regarding January; he has some interesting plans. In addition to their football game day specials, they will be running different promotions on every January weekend. The highlight will be on the Martin Luther King holiday weekend when they will be presenting a Roaring 20’s themed weekend and dinner. Check their website, www.crowthersrestaurant.com, or call 401-635-8367 in early January for specifics.
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
It’s not an easy name for us English speakers to say. It’s even more difficult to spell. It means “new world barbeque restaurant.” I wouldn’t know about this place if it hadn’t been featured on national television. Ted Allen, a Food Network guru, highlighted its barbequed chicken as the best thing he ever ate... The restaurant is located in a very non-descript storefront at 98 County Street in New Bedford. It’s not the type of place that you’d drive by and think, “let’s stop there …that place looks nice.” Their phone number is 508-991-8661. I had lunch there on a Tuesday afternoon; I delayed my lunch until 1:30 so I could let the lunch crowd subside since the place has eleven tables and now has a national reputation. It was about half full when I arrived.
Once in and seated, you could be in Portugal. The unpretentious décor is very relaxing and the feeling is of genuine friendliness and pride. Portuguese is the primary language among the staff and many of the patrons. The menu is bi-lingual, so is the waitress, Carla. She’s worked there for the 18 years that Churrascaria has been open. She could not have been nicer. So far …delightful. I looked around. This place is clean. Small, busy restaurants are almost impossible to keep spotless, there is always activity going on everywhere, it’s tough to clean where somebody is working. This place is spotless. The menu is simple but with good variety. I was there to try one thing… the now famous barbeque chicken that is cooked on rotating spits over coal fire. (I’ve been in hundreds and hundreds of kitchens in my career; I’ve never seen anything like this chicken cooker.) I expected to pay a premium for this celebrated chicken. There it is on the menu, “Half barbequed chicken (hot sauce) ..$6.49.” So far, so good. I’m not a barbeque fan. I don’t hate it; I just normally prefer something else. That was before I’d had this chicken. It’s not the smoky barbeque we expect from Tex-Mex cuisines; it has a little heat, not an overpowering amount, and a wonderful light vinegar, tomato, secret spice taste that delights. The combination of the cook technique and the sauce ...it’s a gift. I was seated alone so I was only given a half loaf of bread and 8 butter cups. The plate comes with nicely prepared rice and shoestring fries, enough to equal two of the burger place’s extra-large orders. Use the extra sauce to season the fries... sinfully delicious. Okay, I hear you, 3 starches and a protein …this is Portuguese comfort food, not diet food. I ordered a duplicate meal, take-out, to bring to my wife, and I had a soda; the bill was under $15. I might move to New Bedford.
Down to Earth Natural Foods I have heard a lot of buzz about this “Down to Earth” store in New Bedford; I had to check it out. It’s not a restaurant or a deli, it’s not really a health food store; it reminded me of an old style market from the 50’s; the type that only the old-timers among you will remember. It’s located at 751 Kempton Street and is jam packed with all sorts of interesting stuff that real people need in their real lives, not just the earthycrunchy types; from tins of Rumford baking powder to tubs of protein supplements, this place has it. Most Americans are now aware of and consciously shopping for more natural and more ethically packaged food and clothing items. “Shopping for” is the key term here, because
On a cold January day, there is nothing more comforting than chourico hash and eggs with Alice’s tremendous home fries.
when they see the price, most stray back to the synthetic mac and cheese. I’m one of them. I prefer to buy local products from soil that has been virgin for 7 years and that is at least a mile upwind of non-compliant soil and all of that stuff, until I see the price. I don’t mind paying a premium, but I don’t want to pay double. I had a short shopping list in my back pocket: I had planned to stop at a market on my way home. I didn’t have to. I don’t think I spent anything extra. They even have dog food that was on my list. I don’t currently own a dog, but I do have dog-sitting duty five and a half days a week. I’m attached to the little bugger but he is one fussy eater. Yep …you guessed it. He ate it. I’m going back. Maybe I will
move to New Bedford. Down to Earth will be hosting a “Natural Health Choices Event,” at Rachel’s Lakeside, 950 State Road in Dartmouth, MA on Saturday, February 18th, 2012. This will be a free event. For further details email dtenf@ comcast.net, or call 508-996-1995.
Alice’s Last Stop Alice no longer runs Alice’s. Brian Stone is now the owner/proprietor, and his sister Pam fills in part time (70 hours/week). I am biased here; I like this kind of restaurant …the type that is descended from the traditional diner. These places are disappearing. When I lived in different parts of North America, there are sections where these places no longer exist. The chains have run them out. But this one survives, at 1901 County Street / Route 138 in Dighton. Alice’s is open at 4 am through lunch, Sunday through Wednesday and until 8 pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. An excellent coffee is a must in this type of place. Alice’s serves an excellent medium to mild roast coffee. Like other diner-type restaurants that we are gifted with in the area, they have an extended menu and most of the food is good to very good. Alice’s is most known for their homemade corned beef hash and their chourico hash. On a cold January day, there is nothing more comforting than chourico hash and eggs with Alice’s tremendous home fries. If that frightens the diet out of you, they do have more diet friendly entrees. Veggie quesadilla is one of my more health-responsible eating favorites. The wait-staff at Alice’s wear t-shirts that read, “where the coffee is always fresh, and so are the waitresses.” It’s true, they might give you some sass, feel free to give it back, just smile when you do give it back. Contact them at 508-669-9062 and at www.aliceslaststop.com.
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
33
WINE NOTES
Grog, glogg
and hot winter punches by Alton Long
What can warm the heart and soul better in the deep cold winter weather that a nice warm wine punch? There are many versions of punches with alcohol and they vary in flavor and the level of alcohol; so beware, some are so smooth that if you consume them sitting down, you may not be able to get up right away. One of the oldest alcoholic blends is the one called “Grog.” The recipe for classic grog is based on a beverage developed by British Vice Admiral Edward Vernon, who introduced it to the Royal Navy in 1740. The Admiral wore a coat made of “grogan” cloth, (a heavy and course material). It lead to his nickname, “Old Grog,” and was carried over to the drink he devised.
You would be surprised on how little alcohol you need to make a “good” alcoholic punch.
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Modern Grog is usually made with rum and hot or boiling water, and often includes lemon juice, and/or lime juice, cinnamon and sometimes sugar to improve the taste, and enough rum to make it pleasant. There are versions made from just rum, water, sugar and nutmeg and known as bumbo. This was especially popular with pirates and merchantmen. And the so-called Navy grog is equally potent as the amount of water is limited. So make sure the quantities consumed are carefully measured as well. “Glogg” (or glüg, gluck and other spellings) is the name used by the northern Europeans and especially the Scandinavian countries for this same type of beverages. Actual recipes vary but the idea is the same: a nice blend of an alcoholic beverage with spice and fruit.
Not all good winter punches are alcoholic. One old favorite non-alcoholic winter punch is a simple blend of half gallon of Cranberry-Raspberry juice, a large can of frozen OrangePineapple juice, a medium (or large) can of frozen grapefruit juice. This provides about 60 cups and is great for a party. (However, one host who served this had a bottle of white rum and a shot glass (!) in the corner for those who wanted a little more kick.) While there are many punches made with the addition of beverages with high alcohol levels, many simply use wine and have a much lower alcohol level. You would be surprised on how little alcohol you need to make a “good” alcoholic punch. So you can also make some great winter punches using most any wine, but especially fruit wines. An excellent punch can be made with a moderately sweet wine that can be embellished by floating orange slices or apple wedges with cloves. Warm or cool, apple based wines and ciders can also be used as a base for some delicious punches. The addition of some raspberry juice or raspberry wine can transform a simple wine punch, as well as to give it a more complex aroma and flavor. Many great punches are lower in alcohol than straight wine. But be careful and know what you are consuming at the parties held on those cold evenings. It could be loaded with booze like the so-called Artillery Punch This Artillery Punch, seems to be popular with retired Army Officer gatherings, but there are many versions that are quite similar.
Classic Artillery Punch n 1 quart of strong tea (add last and while very warm) n 1 qt rye whiskey n 1 bottle red wine n 1 pint Jamaican dark rum n 1/2 pint brandy n 1 pint orange juice n 1/2 pint lemon juice
You may wish to warm the red wine and some of the juice to have a nice warm punch. Again, use small cups and provide lots of nibblies and food to help consumers metabolize the alcohol.
Hot Punch In winter time, hot mulled wine punch is popular. One inexpensive recipe can be made as a red punch or a white (well actually yellow) version. The primary color depends on the first ingredient. To fill a punch bowl, start with a gallon of an inexpensive but good wine (like Gallo Hardy Burgundy or Chablis). n Add 1-cup rum (white for white punch; dark for red punch)
3-cup sugar
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Low alcohol punch A simple and pleasant low alcohol punch can be made with two cans of fruit juice (such as one apricot and one pineapple), a fifth of rum and a bottle of Ginger ale. One home punch maker said that making his punch a day ahead of time always helps; plus, you have time to do a little “tasting” to make sure it’s good, and that’s half the pleasure. Unfortunately the bubbles tend to disappear a lot faster when the punch is warmed. Actually punches with sparkling wines do taste better when they are cold. In any case save the bubbly until just before the punch is served. Warm punch is fun way to make a winter evening more pleasant and to save the host or hostess from an evening of “bar-tending”. In any case, enjoy experimenting when you try to come up with your own “magic” recipe for a warn winter cup of cheer.
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The South Coast Insider / January 2012
35
BUSINESS BUZZ
Improving on an “annus horribilis” by Stephen C. Smith
In a 1992 address to her nation, Queen Elizabeth described the year as an “annus horribilis” or terrible year. She was referring to the many personal crises with her own family and a devastating fire at Windsor Castle. Given the worldwide economic woes that we are all enduring and their impact on South Coast, we might also be tempted to describe 2011 as our own “annus horribilis.” It has not been an easy year.
What the numbers tell us Our economic indicators continue to show slow improvement, but it sure doesn’t feel that way. Unemployment rates for the region dropped over one year from 11.2% to 10.1%, but the number of people with jobs did not grow. This apparent discrepancy is partially attributable to those who got discouraged 36
and stopped looking and therefore are not counted in the unemployment rate. Both Fall River and New Bedford still have unemployment rates slightly north of 12%. While we are not Las Vegas or Phoenix, whose entire economies seem to depend upon attracting new residents, residential building permits can be a fairly reliable indicator of economic activity, even for our region. The pace of permits issued in 2011 plodded along very slowly and actually dropped by 18% from 2010. New Bedford led the list, but issued fewer than 100 permits for the year.
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Home sales are another yardstick we can use to measure the year, and here the news is mixed. The median sales price of a South Coast home sold in 2011 dropped by 6.9% to $246,954. That is not a positive indicator for our economy but is good news for homebuyers. Our region’s premier small business lender, SEED Corporation, made about the same number of loans in 2011 as in the previous year. But there is good news here. The average loan amount In 2011 was considerably larger than in 2010. This will translate into more jobs down the road as these loans are put to work to expand businesses and create jobs.
Status of regional projects We have mixed results when looking at big regional projects for 2011. In the area of creating new jobs, there were wins and losses. The Fall River casino site/biopark quagmire got
straightened out in 2011 when the city saw the light and reversed course. They withdrew their sale of prime industrial land to the Wampanoags for a casino and reverted back to the original plan for a biopark in the north end of the city. That is good news for the long term economic health of the region. On the flip side, the very promising Meditech proposal for Freetown with several hundred future jobs crashed and burned over environmental issues. After the Boston Beer reversal a few years ago, Freetown is starting to feel like the bride left at the altar. The expansion of the state’s most successful industrial park, Myles Standish in Taunton, which hosts over 7000 jobs, got closer to reality with the final transfer of 220 acres of land scheduled to occur at the end of 2011. With regard to casinos, this perennial debate came into better focus in 2011
The immediate future Looking ahead, the socalled “spaghetti ramps”
project, which will replace the multi-level ramp system connecting Route 79 with the Braga Bridge in Fall River, should move ahead in 2012. The funding is set aside but there are some snags with the design that have to be resolved. It had better move soon, because the bubble gum and baling wire repairs on the existing ramps won’t hold up much longer. Residents of New Bedford have been inconvenienced in 2011 by the reconstruction of the JFK highway running through the city, but the end result will be a pedestrian friendly boulevard that will connect the historic district with the waterfront. The South Coast Rail project made significant gains through the environmental process and as we enter 2012 it is much closer to receiving necessary environmental permits. 2011 also saw bridges in New Bedford rebuilt with a $20 million federal grant to help accommodate the train. On the political front, we received the news that our long serving representative in Congress and South Coast champion, Barney Frank, will soon not be representing us after 2012. Love him or hate him, Congressman Frank has always been a successful procurer of “pork,” as he proudly described his leveraging federal financial aid for worthy South Coast projects. Many of the projects noted above have his fingerprints on them. So as we limp into the new year, we can be slightly comforted that we at least treaded water in 2011. Let’s hope that 2012 allows us to start swimming laps again.
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with the passage of a comprehensive state bill, but the picture is muddy for the South Coast. An exclusive negotiating window for Indian tribes in southeastern Massachusetts creates different rules here than everywhere else, and many feel that this exception hurts the chances for a quality proposal in this region. Depending upon one’s position on casino gambling, this may be a good thing or a bad thing. More than a few champagne corks were popped in Fall River when the Hess Company finally gave up the fight to locate an LNG terminal in the city. Meanwhile, down I-195 in New Bedford, efforts of develop a shore side staging area for Cape Wind proceeded, as did the energy project itself as it continued to fend off various legal and other assorted challenges. Following on the opening of a new courthouse in Fall River in 2010, Taunton opened its own sparkling new courthouse in the downtown in 2011. Transportation projects proceeded in 2011, sometimes with surprising speed. The new Veterans Memorial Bridge opened in September, replacing the century-old Brightman Street Bridge, which was about to fall down in any case. The new exit 8B interchange off Route 24 in Freetown looks ready to open and will provide access to industrial land. And the color conversion of the Braga Bridge from faded green to deep blue is nearly complete.
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37
BOOK PICKS
The Easy Way to Stop Smoking by Allen Carr Sterling $13 paperback
By Magoo Gelehrter Courtesy of Baker Books - www.bakerbooks.net
Just in time to help you keep your New Year’s resolutions, and to help you avoid making resolutions you really shouldn’t want to keep, here are some titles that will help you eat well, lose weight, survive the supermarket, increase happiness, and reinvent yourself. That’s a lot for you to ask of yourself, but here’s how you can do it. Innovation You by Jeff DeGraff Random House $25 hardcover
The Mayo Clinic Diet by the Mayo Clinic Good Books $26 hardcover From Mayo Clinic, a leading authority on health and nutrition, comes The Mayo Clinic Diet. Get a quick and gratifying start with Lose It!, the phase of the diet designed to help you lose up to ten pounds in just two weeks. Eat the foods you love —in moderation—in the Live It! phase, as you continue to lose one to two pounds a week and keep them off. This is the diet that helps you accomplish real and lasting weight-loss, a solid, common sense approach brought to you by an organization that is an award-winning health information resource. Nor does The Mayo Clinic Diet require expensive ingredients (which can make a diet difficult to maintain in the long run.) Through simple, healthy lifestyle adjustments, including extra encouragement—meal planners, recipes, tips for overcoming challenges, starting an exercise plan, and much more —The Mayo Clinic Diet gives you everything you need in one book. Toss out the scales and calculators and pick up the foods you love!
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In today’s frenetic, uncertain world, the “same old, same old” routines are perfect ways to go nowhere fast. What has worked for you before—professionally or personally— no longer gets results. Whether you’ve been downsized, ended a long relationship, or found yourself questioning where you are in life, it’s clear you need to innovate, to make yourself new. World-renowned “Dean of Innovation,” Jeff DeGraff, shares his tried-and-true techniques on how to reinvent yourself—creatively and with maximum impact. DeGraff’s unique four-step program will bolster your ingenuity and remake your life. From forging ahead in a new career to losing weight to finally pursuing that long-held dream, DeGraff’s strategies are effective and easy to follow. Full of invigorating ideas, engaging anecdotes, practical wisdom, and inspiring success stories, Innovation You is your personal road map to reach your highest potential—and experience a bold new way of living.
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Carr’s innovative EasyWay method helps smokers discover the psychological reasons behind their dependency, explains how to handle the withdrawal symptoms, shows how to avoid situations when temptation might become too strong. This hardcover edition helped millions kick smoking without feeling anxious and deprived. Carr discusses issues such as nicotine addiction; the social “brainwashing” that encourages smoking; the false belief that a cigarette relieves stress; the role boredom plays in sabotaging efforts to quit; and the main reasons for failure. With this proven program, smokers will throw away their packs for good. Now Eat This by Rocco Dispirito Grand Central $13 In this clever flipformat book from bestselling author and star of Rocco’s Dinner Party on Bravo, Rocco DiSpirito shows you the simple changes you can make every day that will help you shed pounds— without sacrificing great-tasting meals. With 100 effective tips, one side of this groundbreaking book shows you how to cut calories when cooking at home. Flip it over and the other side helps you stick to your weight-loss regimen when you’re eating on-the-go. Simple cooking tricks, incredible calorie-reducing secrets, and new meal plans and shopping lists, will help you enjoy all the dishes you thought you could never eat again!
I Can Make You Happy by Paul Mckenna Sterling $23 hardcover Whether you’re sad, bored, depressed, or already content, Paul McKenna can help you become a lot happier right now! Scientific research reveals that our levels of happiness aren’t fixed; we can change them through our thoughts and actions. Dr. McKenna has spent the last 25 years developing a system that will have an immediate impact on people’s emotional well being. This book uses the latest, most powerful psychological techniques and a hypnosis CD to help the reader feel really good, right now! Let Paul Mckenna show you how to stop feeling depressed instantly and take control of your emotions. You will end the self-sabotage and experience the deepest sense of bliss and happiness. Spontaneous Happiness by Andrew Weil Hachette $28 hardcover Everyone wants to be happy. But what does that really mean? Increasingly, scientific evidence shows us that true satisfaction and well-being come only from within. Dr. Andrew Weil has proven that the best way to maintain optimum physical health is to draw on both conventional and alternative medicine. Now, in Spontaneous Happiness, he gives us the foundation for attaining and sustaining optimum emotional health. Dr. Weil suggests a reinterpretation of
the notion of happiness, and elaborates on the inseparability of body and mind. Dr. Weil offers an array of scientifically proven strategies from Eastern and Western psychology to counteract low mood and enhance contentment, comfort, resilience, serenity, and emotional balance. Drawn from psychotherapy, mindfulness training, Buddhist psychology, nutritional science, and more, these strategies include body-oriented therapies to support emotional wellness, manage stress and anxiety and changing mental habits. His eight-week program can be customized according to specific needs, with short- and long-term advice on nutrition, exercise, supplements, lifestyle, and much more. Whether you are struggling with depression or simply want to feel happier, Dr. Weil’s revolutionary approach will help you achieve greater contentment.
A Place of Yes by Bethenny Frankel Simon & Schuster $25 hardcover Bethenny Frankel’s no-nonsense, tellit-like-it-is personality won over countless fans, and made her a nationally bestselling author and the star of her own hit Bravo show, Bethenny Getting Married. Now Bethenny shares the obstacles she overcame and the great success she has enjoyed while discovering how to approach life from “A Place of Yes.” Bethenny’s overcame a difficult childhood, failed relationships, failed entrepreneurial efforts, and lifelong money struggles. To deal with these challenges, shedeveloped ten rules for pursuing her goals with authenticity and drive, including:
Find your truth: Dig deep inside and figure out what is authentic for you, not anybody else. Act on it: You don’t have to have a master plan. But unless you do something, you’ve done nothing. Everything’s your business: Treat every job, person, and experience as if it could lead to your next big opportunity. Each rule is illustrated with compelling, sometimes funny, sometimes outrageous examples that are pure Bethenny. It’s easy to say no, to say “I can’t,” to expect the worst, and to doubt yourself. But your life can be better than “not bad” or “good enough.” It can be amazing. And by putting Bethenny’s rules together, you can use them to be more successful, more fulfilled, healthier and happier than ever before.
Hungry Girl Supermarket Survival by Lisa Lillien St Martins Griffin $13 paperback Finally…a realworld guide that will help you navigate the supermarket and stock up on guilt-free foods, from mealtime must-haves to snack finds and more! It’s Hungry Girl’s ultimate resource for grocery-store survival—a must-own manual that makes shopping for better-for-you foods easy and fun! Inside you’ll find Hungry Girl AllStars and grocery-store standouts! It also presents calorie counts and comparisons for foods in every aisle and guilt-free meal ideas and snack solutions for every craving and situation! You’ll enjoy the ease of use with information about nutrition labels and ingredient lists and a complete supermarket list with aisle-by-aisle food finds.
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
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COVER STORY
Hope for the future
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Wednesday, January 18, 1 pm Woodland Commons UMass Dartmouth Main Campus
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286 Columbia Street • Fall River, MA 508-679-4584 Hours: Tue-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-4pm Nos falamos Portugues • Hablamos Espanol
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by Michael J. Vieira
Each new year brings an opportunity to hope. We toss out the old calendars and write a new year on our checks and documents. It’s a time not so much to look back, but to look forward. Recently, amidst the holiday hassles, we took some time to head down to Water Street Café. My cousin is in a band called the “Wolf Hongos.” They’re a pretty eclectic seven piece group that features an accordion and plays what has been described as “mixing folk music from all over the world with punk and rock feel and sound.” It’s foot stomping, dance party music, but what’s special is that it feels like home. If you’re Portuguese, it’s spiced with samba and a feel of the guitarra Portuguesa. Lebanese? There’s a Middle Eastern theme. Polish or Italian? The accordion swells to bring a European folk music feel. Jewish? There’s a lot of Klezmer kicking in. Add a little violin, some guitars and drums, and it’s an ethnic musical feast with a contemporary gypsy rhythm. Like the city of Fall River where they live and were educated, the Hongos provide a sound track to all that is good about the South Coast: rich ethnic traditions that not only provide a strong foundation, but also support and encourage experimentation and
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
celebration. But even more, their musical message shows just how much we’re alike, and provides hope that some day the world will dance to the same tune. They were joined by Andrea Belanger and the Blind Woods, Max Jeffers, and Day Old Funk. All young, local talents who offer hope that the future of music is more than raunchy rap or pretty boy (girl) whining. January may be cold and depressing, but I dare you to sit through a set by the Hongos or Day Old Funk and not feel like “busting a move” as one listener said. And to make it even better, they record at Bongo Beach Studios, one of the city’s best kept secrets. Tucked above South Main Street, John Mailloux has digitally recorded, mixed and mastered an array of talent from locals to Grammy-nominated artists. He also shares his knowledge by teaching at Bristol Community College and provides the behind the scenes support and encouragement to keep local music alive. Across the hall, Mike Herren operates hurricaneradio.net, an online
radio station. Just before the holidays, Mike and his crew survived a seven day marathon to raise funds, collect food, and gather toys to help the needy. Like him or hate him, you’ve got to give him credit for offering a helping hand—and for having the courage to take his message to the airwaves. Downstairs and down the street, places like the Tap House, Addagio, Trio, and others are lighting up Fall River’s downtown and providing food, fun, and music. Nearby Battleship Brewhouse does much the same—with a great beer selection. Combine these with the city’s legendary Portuguese and Chinese restaurants—and the amazing listening room the Narrows— and you’ve got to agree that there’s hope that the city center will return to its once greatness. Move to the waterfront, and Commonwealth Landing is bringing new life to the old Quaker headquarters on the Taunton River. Although the hole left by the old Dockside remains nearby and the abandoned Regatta is a reminder of what won’t revive the waterfront, the enthusiastic welcome that’s been given to Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar and Grill is reason for hope -- and a vote of confidence from RemDawg that the area can support a quality, Bostonstyle restaurant. Maybe Emeril will take notice. And Fall River is not alone. In fact, New Bedford has offered signs of hope for several years now. Walking the cobblestone streets at night (or sometimes during the day) used to be a little frightening for this Fall River kid, but now light shines from art
galleries and restaurants. Waterfront Grille offers amazing seafood fresh from the boats that float just outside its windows. Rose Alley Ale House, the Pour Farm Tavern, and the Hibernia Irish Pub are bringing music and life to downtown area where No Problemo was, and still is, not just a great deal but well worth the trip. When you add in the always excellent Antonio’s for Portuguese food served in heaping panelas and the shiny, new Market Basket, the Whaling City with its museums, zoo, and National Park is a beacon of hope for the region. But perhaps more impressive are the efforts Fall River has taken to give its dropouts a second chance. A new “middle college” program, offered in conjunction with Bristol Community College, is taking young people who didn’t finish school and giving them the opportunity to complete their high school degrees and earn college credits. Modeled after the national Gateway program, which will be serving a similar population in Fall River starting this month, it is giving our youth hope that they can start over and become successful. In the interest of full-disclosure, I work at BCC. From that vantage point, I get the opportunity to meet many young—and not so young—people filled with hope. They want to get an education, to make a difference, and to change the world. And maybe that’s why, when I look ahead to 2012 and beyond, I’m not worried. Sure, things are not great, but there is hope and at least for me, that’s reason to be happy this New Year.
…when I look ahead to 2012 and beyond, I’m not worried. Sure, things are not great, but there is hope and at least for me, that’s reason to be happy this New Year.
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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 – You are at a crossroads in your life and you need to find your motivation in order to choose the right direction. Now is the time to avoid being stuck in the middle of family problems; work on finding your own forgotten goals. Taurus – Stop focusing on the opportunities that have already slipped by. You may feel off balance, but keep looking for newer and better doors to open. Show the world that you mean business, while still knowing your limitations. Gemini – Make some time for yourself and try to remain positive. There is a lot going on in your life right now and you need to take a step back from your emotions before you drown. Spend some quality time alone with your brain and the solution you are seeking will come to you.
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TAROT-SCOPES
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Leo – You’ve been struggling with the feeling that life is against you. Snap out of it! Right now, you need to forgive people’s imperfections. Now is the time to remember the joy you felt in childhood and bring back the fun!
Virgo – Your multi-tasking abilities will help you shine this month. Go with the flow, but don’t get taken away by the tide. You need to realize your own dreams and not what people have planned for you. Libra – Climb down off your high horse before someone knocks you down! Stop being suspicious when people compliment you. Don’t be so dependant on other people’s opinions... start having your own. Scorpio – You need to stop acting so tough. You’re too busy denying emotional wounds from the past to see that you have some soul searching to do. Put control back in your life; stop being afraid to show that you care. Sagittarius – It’s time to stop seeking approval from your peers and look instead for some positive inner strength. Close the door on your past and prepare for some sunny days ahead!
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Capricorn – You need to be more sensitive to others and learn to see their potential. Remember that while knowledge is the key, you don’t have all the answers, so stop pretending that you do. It’s time to play nicely with others. Aquarius – Accepting positive changes in your life. Right now, start a new relationship or rekindle the one you have. Right now you have the Midas touch, so look for the gold in your life.
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Pisces – It’s time to face facts. You’ve been feeling secure lately and it’s made you a little lazy, especially in love. You need to stick to the rules of love and stop fantasizing. Wake up from your joy ride on the Love Boat and find your relationship a life raft before it turns into the Titanic.
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The South Coast Insider / January 2012
43
CLASSICAL SOUTH COAST
Music for kids We all have memories of music from childhood—a favorite song, the first concert we ever attended, or the first time we met a musician and saw an instrument being played up close. The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra (NBSO) wants to make sure that children today will have those same memories. All told, the NBSO brings classical music into the lives of nearly 30,000 children every year through seven educational programs. Here are four of their most popular programs which are available to children in all South Coast communities.
Symphony Tales Symphony Tales is designed for young children ages 4 through 7. In this 44
program, children attend a reading of a popular children’s book while being accompanied by a live, musical performance by an NBSO musician. The Symphony Tales program is designed to reinforce the fundamental literacy skills that children need in order to become strong readers. NBSO music director and conductor, David MacKenzie, composed the music for cello specifically to imitate the prosodic elements of the text, such as stress, pitch, contour, rhythm and tempo. This
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
by David Prentiss
concept of linking the prosody in text and music is based on current findings in cognitive psychology that show that both music and language have a shared neural perception system. The program is available for schools and libraries throughout the South Coast area. The program uses the book, Scritch Scratch a Perfect Match, written by local author Kimberly Marcus. As the story is read, the cello speaks the text using musical notes and rhythms. Kim Marcus attends all performances of Symphony Tales and answers questions from the children. Following the performance, children participate in two interactive, rhythmic speaking and movement activities
that draw their attention to the prosodic elements of two key text phrases from the book. At the end of the program, children have the chance to play a cello that is sized just for them.
SchoolsMusic! The SchoolsMusic! program brings a trio of NBSO musicians into schools for an “up close and musical experience.” This year’s program is entitled Musical Punctuation and focuses on the concept of prosody, as it is exemplified in both music and language. Throughout the concert program, the author’s creative use of punctuation is highlighted using notable excerpts from children’s literature. The specific prosodic
effects include segmentation (comma), closure (period) and prominence (caps or bold print). The musicians then perform music which demonstrates these same literary, prosodic effects through sound. The program is highly interactive and engages children in musical and literary activities that reinforce reading prosody and fluency while developing their perception and understanding of classical music. Literary excerpts used include The Bridge to Terabithia, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible,No Good, Very Bad Day, The Twenty-One Balloons and The World According to Humphrey.
Young People’s Concerts Nothing sounds quite like a full symphony orchestra and, for most children, their first and possibly only opportunity to have that special experience is the NBSO’s Young People’s Concerts. Schools from all over the South Coast send students to the concert (performed at the Zeiterion Theatre). The concerts are designed to appeal to children and use a power point slide show that is projected on stage that conveys lessons on music and literacy. NBSO conductor David MacKenzie interacts with the students and they also participate in a musical trivia game. The concerts take place on March 5th.
The New Bedford Symphony Youth Orchestras The youth orchestra program consists of four
different ensembles for children of all ages and abilities. The Symphony Orchestra is a full orchestra made up of advanced players of all orchestral instruments. The repertoire studied and performed encompasses a wide range of orchestral styles and time periods. Sectional coaching sessions are a part of the regular rehearsal schedule. The Repertory Orchestra is an intermediate level ensemble open to players of all orchestral instruments. The focus of this orchestra is on the development of individual and ensemble performance skills in a full orchestra setting. The Debut Orchestra is an elementary ensemble open to players of all orchestral instruments with established basic playing skills. The focus of this group is the development of ensemble performance skills, as well as preparation for performance at the end of each semester. The Poco Strings is a beginning string ensemble open to students interested in learning to play a stringed instrument. Students in this ensemble will develop basic playing skills on their instruments during Suzuki-style group classes. The group offers its members an early ensemble experience, leading to multiple performances during the year. If you would like to learn more about these programs, or how to have your local school or library participate, please contact the NBSO at info@nbsymphony.org or 508-999-6276.
We Help Elders Meet Challenges
• Medication management and needs assessments • Coordination of in-home care – liaison with family and physician • Exploring assisted living /nursing home options • Referrals for legal or financial experts
508-677-4367 Geriatric Care Management
www.dhfo.org/eldersfirst
Red White &
Blues Join us for a wine-tasting party with food sampling & dancing to The Silks to benefit Trinity Rep 7pm – midnight • 6pm VIP reception January 28 Pell Chafee Performance Center 87 Empire St. • Providence • RI tickets $60 • VIP tickets $100 (401) 351-4242 • trinityrep.com casual attire encouraged sponsored by
trinity repertory company
The South Coast Insider / January 2012
45
EDUCATION
Back to school Post-9/11 G.I. Bill makes it easier By Joyce Rowley
President Barak Obama announced the drawdown of troops from Iraq on August 31, 2010, and the last troops left on December 19, 2011. Not since the end of the Persian Gulf War have so many veterans returned Stateside looking for work. With the job market still overcrowded with civilian workers displaced from the economic downturn, what can the returning veterans do? One option is to take advantage of the new GI Bill, revised in 2009 for the first time in over 40 years, according to Beth Vezina, Enrollment Counselor and VA Certifying Official in the Office of Veteran Affairs at Bristol Community College. The new version of the GI Bill pays for tuition and fees directly to the school, which allows veterans to attend school while their VA paperwork is pending. The old version required paying tuition and fees and getting reimbursed in a monthly stipend. “If you’re not working, where do you get the funds to pay for it in advance?” Vezina said. “Because tuition and fees go directly to the school, we can allow the veteran to start classes.”
Increased benefits The amount of the benefits increased, too, in 2009. If a veteran is eligible for 100% benefits and is enrolled full time, the monthly stipend is $500 for books per semester and $1,600 per month for housing costs. Benefits are based on length of time in service and how much of that occurred after 9/11. If the majority of the time was served after 9/11, the veteran can apply for benefits under the new G.I. bill. If not, they may be eligible for benefits under the older version, the Montgomery G.I. Bill. Returning veterans can also get a tuition waiver under the Massachusetts National Guard Tuition Waiver program if they are Massachusetts 46
residents. Courses cost about $166 per course, $75 of which is tuition. VA certification takes four to six weeks. To get started, Vezina said they need to bring the #4 copy of their DD214 to the Office of Veteran Affairs where Vezina and her staff will walk them through the process. Classes begin on January 24th, 2012. Application for admission to BCC is open year-round and typically takes up to three weeks. Some majors such as Health Sciences and Dental Hygiene are closed to open enrollment as they are filled on a competitive basis. But students can take General Studies to
We look at what students have acquired in school in the course of study and degree, and what military training and experience they have, and see if we can make a match with employers. get basic classes out of the way while deciding on their major. Once admitted, veterans get priority advisement, sit with a counselor, get VA certification, and register for classes in a single visit to the Office of Veteran Affairs.
Additional help And, thanks to Congressman Barney Frank, two new positions were created at BCC this past Fall semester through a grant from the Department of Labor to help BCC veterans find and get jobs once they graduate. Joe Carvalho, the Veterans Service Job Development and Placement Coordinator and Michael Flanagan, the
January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor/ Enrollment Counselor, work from the Fall River campus. Both are Viet Nam veterans and former educators. Flanagan helps veterans with academic planning from enrollment forward. He also helps them recognize their abilities, skills, and needs through vocational evaluations. And he prepares an individualized plan for their employment opportunities. Carvalho’s job is to identify employment opportunities, and create a database of employers to match with veterans. The program is tailored to the veteran’s needs. “We look at what students have acquired in school in the course of study and degree, and what military training and experience they have, and see if we can make a match with employers,” said Carvalho. Another part of his work is to go into the community and educate companies about the benefits of hiring a veteran. A $10,000 tax credit is available to employers who hire a disabled Vet who has been out of work more than three months. Currently, there is legislation to increase the tax credit to $5,000 for non-disabled veterans who are out of work more than six months. Currently there are 200 veterans attending BCC, according to Vezina. She said the number of veterans returning to school doubled in 2009 as a result of the Post 9/11 G.I. bill. She expects to see another jump in veteran enrollment in the coming year. And BCC is ready for them with the programs and the experienced staff to help them along. Employers interested in the BCC Veterans’ programs may contact Joe Carvalho at 508-678-2811 ext. 3811. For more information about BCC’s Office of Veteran Affairs, call 508-6782811 or visit www.bristolcc.edu/Students/veterans/index.cfm.
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401-378- 6709 The South Coast Insider / January 2012
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January 2012 / The South Coast Insider
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Clifton
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY
The fireplace in the Library at the “Inn” at Clifton is just one of the places our residents stay warm during our cold New England winters.......
Winter at the “Inn”....... Brrrrrr.......Winter is here!! The winter season is upon us and snow is on its way in South Coast New England. Here at the “Inn” at Clifton we deal with the challenges brought on by severe winter weather. We do all of the shoveling. We clean off the frozen windows of your car. Your mail and newspapers are delivered inside. We face the bitter cold outside…while our residents can sit around the fireplaces in the Dining Room, the Parlor and the Library. With family, good friends, a cup of Hot Cider, Cocoa or Coffee, they can capture the special cozy, warm feeling that is unique to the traditional inns of New England.
Corporate vs. Family....... There is a corporate model of healthcare and there is a more traditional family model of care. “Clifton” is a fourth generation local family organization that, since 1954, has been providing the highest quality of healthcare services to your community which is also our community.
CLIFTON HEALTHCARE CAMPUS
CLIFTON ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY 444 Wilbur Avenue, Somerset, MA, 02725 508-324-0200
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Proud to be celebrating over 50 years of dedication to excellence.