S o u t h
C o a s t
Prime timeS Fa l l / W i n t er 2 011 • Volum e 7 • Num ber 3
’T is the se ason
TO RELAX Smart Shopping & Frugal Finds TO REFLECT Thanking & Giving TO RESTORE Eat Healthy, Take Care & Get Help
Plus Regular features Prime Wines, Book Picks and more!
There are some things in life that you just can’t put a price on… If your hearing isn’t what it used to be, we can help! n Our prices are surely reasonable and highly competitive with what you’ll find at “storefront” hearing facilities. Most of our hearing instruments are currently being sold at 35% to 65% off manufacturer’s suggested retail price. n The Hearing Center is a division of Eye Health Vision Centers, a practice that has served the community for over 30 years with offices in Dartmouth, Taunton, Fall River, Fairhaven and Middletown, RI. n With a focus on audiology and hearing health, we provide comprehensive services for both children and adults.
Your hearing is one of them. The Hearing Center
n We use only the most sophisticated, technologically-advanced testing equipment available on the market today. n The Hearing Center offers five day per week walk-in service for hearing aids at our offices in North Dartmouth, Taunton and Middletown, RI and by appointment at our Fall River office. n FREE hearing screenings offered daily at our offices in Dartmouth, Taunton, Middletown, RI and by appointment in Fall River. n FREE
video inspection of the ear offered daily.
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n FREE follow up visits on all hearing aid sales. We work with you until we get it right! n FREE
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n We offer the absolute best hearing instruments on the market today: outstanding sound quality with unmatched feedback suppression, including digital, programmable hearing aids that fit entirely inside the ear. n Custom
swim plugs and iPod plugs available.
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Arrange for a Free Hearing Screening… Contact any of our offices: 51 State Road (Rt. 6) Dartmouth, MA 508-910-2221
933 Pleasant Street Flint Village Plaza Fall River, MA 508-673-2020
73 Valley Road Middletown, RI 401-845-2020
64 Winthrop Street (Rt. 44) Taunton, MA 508-823-5536
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D
id you know that Beacon Adult Foster Care pays caregivers a tax-free stipend to care for your loved ones at home, so they can enjoy life with as few
restrictions as possible? Adult Foster Care (AFC) allows adults with chronic health care needs to stay at home, as an alternative to assisted living or nursing home placement. Adult Foster Care is a MassHealth-funded program that provides 24-hour home care services for qualified members in an individualized home setting, through ongoing personalized supervision and/or assistance from a family or non-family caregiver. It provides members with a safe and secure living environment, thus promoting opportunities for community interaction and integration. It provides caregivers with much-needed support and payment, and eases the financial difficulties often associated with caring for a loved one at home.
An AFC member must live in Massachusetts and have MassHealth Standard or CommonHealth insurance and require supervision and/or assistance with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) such as bathing, dressing, ambulating, transferring, eating, or toileting due to a medical, physical, cognitive, or mental condition. An AFC caregiver must be at least 18 years of age and be able to make mature and informed judgments with no mental, physical or other impairments that would interfere with their ability to meet the needs of the AFC member. He or she must be able to devote the time necessary to provide the needed personal care to the AFC member and to ensure the member’s safety and well-being at all times. The AFC caregiver must live with the AFC member.
To find out if you qualify as a member or caregiver, call us at 774-202-1837 or visit our website www.beaconafc.com
fall 2011/winter 2012
contents 30
10 14 22
16
F e atures
Prime S e ason
10 Technology:
6
26 Your Health:
14 Frugal shopping
30 Help for elders
16 Shop smarter
Nostalgia inspires By Richard Clark
Should you supplement? By Lynn Tondat Ruggeri
28 Prime Wines:
Why oak? By Alton Long
36 Book Picks:
Thanking and giving By Michae J. Vieira
By Stephanie Afonso Blanchard
By Elizabeth Morse Read
18 A grandparent’s voice
28
Prime L iving
G ood T imes
22 Seek safe fish
12 Enjoy intimate music
By Elizabeth Morse Read
By Joyce Rowley
By David M. Prentiss
20 Eat your vegetables
By Melissa Tavares
Happenings: 32 Caring for caregivers 38 Cool things to do. By Elizabeth Morse Read
35 Get shingle shot
By Joyce Rowley
By Richard Clark
A cornucopia of treats By Magoo Gelehrter
On the cover The summer might be over, but there’s plenty of good weather left to enjoy. Take a trip to Westport and explore the beaches that are mostly empty now. They’re good places to think.
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If you have
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Fall 2011/ w in ter 2012
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The area’s agency of choice for Live-In & Hourly Home Health Aides is helping you stay safe and independent at home. Now when you arrange for our home care services, you may be eligible for a FREE Philips Lifeline Medical Alert Service. So, should you ever need it, help can be on its way at the push of a button. We also provide complete criminal background and reference checks along with on-going training for our caregivers. v
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S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
Fall 2011/ w in ter 2012
From The Publisher Fall 2011/Winter 2012 n Vol. 7 n No. 3 Published by
Coastal Communications Corp. Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Ljiljana Vasiljevic
The holidays may dominate the upcoming months, but they don’t have to come at the expense of good
Editors
Michael J. Vieira, Ph.D. Joe Murphy
living. There’s still time to walk a beach, to enjoy restaurants and shops that may be less crowded off
Contributors
season, and to find opportunities to relax, to reflect,
Stephanie Afonso Blanchard, Richard Clark, Magoo Gelehrter, Alton Long, David M. Prentiss, Elizabeth Morse Read, Joyce Rowley, Lynn Tondat Ruggeri, Melissa Tavares, Michael J. Vieira South Coast Prime Times is published three times per year and is mailed to homeowners, professional offices, advertisers and subscribers. Copyright ©2011 Coastal Communications Corp. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means, without written permission from the Publisher. All information contained herein is believed to be reliable. Coastal Communications Corp. does not assume any financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements, but will reprint that portion of an advertisement in which the typographical error occurs.
and to restore. To help you do just that—and to give you some tips for holiday shopping, we’ve put together an issue full of advice and helpful advertising. Mike Vieira shares some thoughts on thanking and giving, while Richard Clark finds inspiration in some “low tech” places. Can’t avoid shopping? Stephanie Afonso Blanchard provides some tips for bargain hunting at secondhand stores, and Elizabeth Morse Read offers ways to make gift-giving a pleasure. And don’t forget to check out the Book Picks, find tips for healthy eating, meet some interesting people, and discover the role oak plays in wine production.
Next Deadline March 1, 2012
Circulation
Plus remember to sign up for weekly updates at www.coastalmags.com.
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Subscriptions
Enjoy,
$5.95 per year
M ailing A ddress South Coast Prime Times P.O. Box 3493 Fall River, MA 02722
Ljiljana Vasiljevic Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Tel: (508) 677-3000 Fax: (508) 678-3003
Website http://www.coastalmags.com
E-mail editor@coastalmags.com
facebook.com/thesouthcoastinsider
Our advertisers make this publication possible —please support them S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
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Do we really say thanks in November when we focus on eating turkey and watching football? In the South Coast, we boast that the day recalls the pilgrim’s feast in nearby Plymouth, although others argue that the first thanksgiving may have happened in Florida back in 1565. We also brag that it’s a uniquely American holiday, but folks in India, Germany, Iran, the Netherlands, Liberia and other countries also have similar holidays, according to Wikipedia. Canada celebrated Thanksgiving back in October when we enjoyed Columbus Day. So, are we really being thankful? Maybe that happens more when we enter the season of giving. After Thanksgiving, we move right on to Christmas and end with New Year’s Day —although some would say that it begins
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As we enter what is now called the “Holiday Season,” it’s not a bad idea that we begin the time of year with Thanksgiving and end it with gift-giving. But do we ever think about it in those terms?
Fall 2011/ w in ter 2012
with the winter solstice—and some stores start displaying ornaments and decorations in August, or at least by Halloween (which is now becoming another important home decorating event). But whether you celebrate Christmas, the Yule, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, St. Stephen’s Day, Epiphany, or even Black Friday or Cyber Monday, the focus is on giving for most of the season. That’s why it may be good to remember that it truly is a season of both thanking and giving. But how do we bring the two together? Maybe by being more appreciative of the gift giver—and more selective of the gifts given.
Thanks for giving Recently, Bristol Community College hosted a reception for scholarship winners
and for the people who contributed the funds for the scholarships—or who represented them. It was a good way to bring together two groups that don’t often get to meet: people who give and people who should say thanks. Somebody once said that if you dig deeply enough, there is a scholarship for everybody. And it doesn’t take Google very long to come up with plenty. There are scholarships for left-handed students, for little or big people, for folks who make outfits out of duct tape or wool, and for people whose last names range from Bright (Harvard) to Zolp (Loyola). But locally, we take our scholarships a little more seriously. Why is Fall River known as the Scholarship City? It’s to recognize the efforts of Dr. Irving Fradkin, who founded Dollars for Scholars. That organization went on to become Citizens Scholarship Foundation and now Scholarship America. Since its founding, the group has distributed more than $2.5 billion to 1.7 million students across the country. For years, I remember reading the list of scholarship recipients awarded to Durfee High School students through the alumni association. The group has its scholarship roots so far down that the original grants were to students of Fall River High School, which existed before the impressive granite building opened on Rock Street in 1887.
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Continued on next page
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Who are these people? When I read the Durfee scholarship list of 2010, it’s a little frightening because I actually remember some of the people on the list. Folks like Julia Harrington, who was a long-time educator who, in her retirement, did so much work for the alumni association; Judge Beatrice Hancock Mullaney, who advanced to that position at a time when women were expected to stay at home; and colleagues I worked with or whose families I taught or taught beside: Pete Khoury and the Nawrockis. When a student earns a scholarship named for a person, I think it’s more meaningful for them to learn about the person whose name graces the award. If they can meet the person, then it’s even better. The BCC awards often recall the great work of faculty and other members of the college community. For the past ten years,
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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
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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
Our Lady’s Haven
I’ve been honored to work there—and to work alongside many of the folks whose names grace scholarships: Al Roy, Kathy and Kevin Garganta, Marie Marshall, Jack Hudnall, Johanna Duponte, John Caressimo, Paul Fletcher, Basil and Theresa Maravelas, John Capone, Ray Lavertue, Rachel Holland, HM Booth and many others.
Give of yourself The gift is important—in the case of the scholarships, they often make the dream of education a reality—but so is the thanking. The scholarship recipients who are helped need to be appreciative not just for the cash, but for the difference that people make in our community. We forget that more times than not.
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Auto Body Repair 675-1192 Mechanical Repair 730-2282 Express Car Rental 675-7575 All Office Phones are Answered 24 Hours a Day Phone (508) 675-1194 535 Bay St. • Fall River, MA
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Fall 2011/ w in ter 2012
The gift is important—
in the case of the scholarships, they often make the dream of education a reality— but so is the thanking. This year, the holidays are likely to be stress-filled times if we worry about how to buy the gifts and pay the bills. So maybe, we need to keep the giving to a minimum and increase the thanking. Give a little gift of yourself: your time, your talents, your thoughts. Volunteer, tell stories about people who made a difference in your own life or in our community, write your memoirs, visit friends and family, and share more of your self. The people around you will be thankful. Michael Vieira, Ph.D. is the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bristol Community College. Mike has written for several newspapers and magazines and is an editor of The South Coast Insider and South Coast Prime Times.
GIVING QUOTES
“
When you learn, teach. When you get, give.”
Southeastern Massachusetts Health & Rehabilitation Center
–Maya Angelou
“Simply the Best Short Term Rehab & Long Term Care!”
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Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”
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I don’t think you ever stop giving. I really don’t. I think it’s an on-going process. And it’s not just about being able to write a check. It’s being able to touch somebody’s life.”
Multilingual Staff in Portuguese, Spanish, & Creole Tour our 3,000 sq. ft. Rehab Gym! Located Directly on Busline
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Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present.”
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No one has ever become poor by giving.” –Anne Frank
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We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
Experience the difference…
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–Winston Churchill
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Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.” –John D. Rockefeller Jr.
“
It is every man’s obligation to put back into the world at least the equivalent of what he takes out of it. The value of a man resides in what he gives and not in what he is capable of receiving.” –Albert Einstein
“
If you have much, give of your wealth; If you have little, give of your heart.” –Arab proverb
(l-r) Irving Restituyo, MD, Sylvia Goncalo, RN, Flavia Thornson, RN, William Thornson, PA-C
Dedicated to providing state of the art anti-aging treatments utilizing the latest in cutting-edge technology. All services provided by medical professionals using physician grade products only. Consultations are available in Portuguese and Spanish. Call 774-202-7049 today for your complimentary consultation.
www.avalonmedicalspa.net S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
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technology
Finding
inspiration in nostalgia The internet is an invaluable source for information of all kinds, from finding the origin of a familiar quotation to a recipe Richard for chicken soup or instructions Clark on how to repair an appliance. Email is a fast, efficient means of communication and more effective at times and contains a joke or cartoon that really tickles the funny bone and brightens the day.
That was the case recently with a comical narrative featuring a conversation between a young cashier at the supermarket and a customer of considerable age. The cashier was berating the woman for choosing plastic bags instead of the re-useable, “green” form, indicating that she was not an eco-friendly sort of person. He took it to the limit by suggesting that the woman was one of those who did not care about saving the environment. The teller of the story goes on in a light-hearted fashion to point out the cultural and practical differences between the younger generation and those who grew up in the 40s and 50s.
Those olden days Those of the latter generations quite routinely returned milk, soda and beer bottles to the store in the knowledge that they would be returned to the bottlers for washing, sterilizing and refilling. Recycling…ahead of its time! Stairs were more common than escalators and elevators, and sidewalks were made for walking, the basic form of getting from point A to point B for most people. It was also a Sunday afternoon leisurely activity that often led to what today is called (as if it were new) “social networking.” Young parents simply accepted the job of washing diapers, wringing them out and then using solar and wind power for drying. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. Actually, shopping was not a leisure time activity; it was a necessity. For most families, evenings were spent around the one, large radio in the house, usually in the living room. When TV came along, there was only one in the house with a screen that was just about the size of a handkerchief that emitted an eerie blue light that bathed the entire room. Kitchens of the day featured limited appliances, since most of the preparation and mixing or stirring was all done by hand. Some of us may remember lawn mowers that were human powered, and cutting the grass was only one of many forms of exercise that would have made today’s “necessity” of a trip to the health club to use all of the electrically-driven equipment quite unnecessary.
Reuse, refill Writing pens were refilled instead of buying new ones, and the
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menfolk replaced the razor blades instead of throwing the whole thing away when the blade got dull. Kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of having door-to-door livery service. Buses were a convenient way of getting around and served most areas of town. There was one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets for powering a multitude of appliances, amplifiers and speakers. We didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint in the South Coast. We simply flipped through the yellow pages. Life really was a lot “greener” in the nostalgic past than it is in today’s plug-in-turn-on-recharge society.
We Help Elders Meet Challenges
Energy at what cost? The demand for more and more energy/power is wreaking havoc with the environment in which we must live…and survive. Some of the attempts at increasing the supply of oil or natural gas are proving to be environmentally disastrous. The most controversial process is known as “fracking.” This involves pumping millions of gallons of water with or without chemicals into the earth to find new weak points at which gas or oil may be reached. The pressure
Life really was a lot “greener” in
the nostalgic past than it is in today’s plug-in-turn-onrecharge society. is intended to fracture the earth, thus releasing the gas. Contradicting the “self-contained” nature of this process, as touted presently on reassuring, seemingly nature-friendly television ads sponsored by the energy interests, there are some real horror stories reported by people living near the fracking drill sites. Their wells have been badly contaminated to the point where the water coming out of their kitchen faucets can actually be ignited. The fracking procedure is virtually unregulated due the legislation deftly enacted under the Bush-Cheney administration. Obviously we can’t go back to the “way we were”… I guess. Certainly not in any total sense, but we do need to find ways of challenging ourselves into becoming “greener” in our life-styles. After all, we really don’t want our environment “fracked.” Congress is proving itself ineffective and caught up in special interest payoffs, so “greening” has to be a real grass-roots effort (no pun intended). Actually, that’s the strength of our country, people taking responsibility for the quality of life we share. That we can do!
• 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
VISIT FAIRHAVEN
Shop for unique gifts and home accessories. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. See unique architecture or a seacoast fort. Town of Fairhaven VISITORS CENTER
43 Center St., Fairhaven Mon. Tue. Thurs. Fri. Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 508-979-4085
Richard Clark formerly worked in the incentive travel industry and is a free-lance writer with an interest in psychology, spirituality and human potential.
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11
Good Times
A season
of great music the South Coast Chamber Music Society
It has been called “the music of friends,” “intimate music,” and “music for a small room.” Its origin is rooted in the love people have to make music with friends David M. Prentiss and for friends. It is played as much by amateurs as by professional musicians. It is music into which the greatest composers poured some of their most precious and inspired creative energy. It is the kind of music about which an excited Mozart wrote to a friend, “When can we make a little music again at your place? I have written a new trio!”
The South Coast Music Society is composed of Donna Cobert (oboe), Janice Weber (piano), Timothy Roberts (cello), Piotr Bucek (violin), Claude Cobert (flute), and Don Krishnaswami (viola).
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It is chamber music The South Coast Chamber Music Society (SCCMS) recently announced its 2011-12 season and everyone on the South Coast who loves music is in for a real treat: four concerts from November to April that feature some of the most beautiful, passionate and exciting music ever written “for a small room.” Artistic Director (and oboist) Donna Cobert can’t wait to get started. “I love music. I love the process, the rehearsals, the merging of mind, spirit, knowledge and expertise to create a unified interpretation of the composer’s intent. And I love to share the fruit of this process with our audience.”
The year’s themes The SCCMS has been sharing its love of music and its exquisite artistry with South Coast audiences since its founding in 2001. This coming season will feature music by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, Dvorak, Puccini, Tchaikovsky, and others. Befitting its South Coast locale, the group has given coastal themes and corresponding names to each of its four programs; Force Five, High Winds, Calm, and Fresh Breeze. Each concert will be made up of music that reflects the named theme. “Force Five” features five musicians playing piano quintets by Dvorak and Franck. “High Winds” will offer Boccherini’s Flute Quintet featuring Claude Cobert on flute and Stamitz’s Oboe Quartet featuring Donna Cobert on oboe. “Calm” will sooth audiences with a Bach trio sonata and piano trios by Schubert and Brahms. For the season finale, “Fresh Breeze,” audiences will be delighted and invigorated by the artistry of cellist Timothy Roberts and pianist Janice Weber. They will perform Beethoven’s “Twelve Variations of a
Theme by Handel,” Richard Strauss’ Sonata for Cello and Piano, Schubert’s Sonata for Piano and Cello “Apeggione,” and Tchaikovsky’s “Variations on a Rocco Theme.” Each of these programs promises to be a tour de force, and Cobert is making a promise, too. “Every performance will be presented with freshness and energy. We want to inspire our audience with an unforgettable musical experience.”
FRIDAY, 8PM
OCTOBER 28 NATIONAL TOUR
The musicians The SCCMS is made up of a core of six musicians: Donna Cobert (oboe), Janice Weber (piano), Timothy Roberts (cello), Piotr Bucek (violin), Claude Cobert (flute), and Don Krishnaswami (viola). They all have distinguished musical careers in their own right, and have been playing together as the SCCMS for the past several years. And that is the key to bringing chamber music to its highest level. The paradox of chamber music is that while each instrument and musician is given a prominent voice in the music, they must have a sensitivity and rapport with each other that makes the music a seamless whole. As one chamber music commentator has observed, “In chamber music, there is no place to hide. You have to commit fully to the music and to your fellow-musicians.” The demands of such music-making are great, but so is the reward, for musician and listener.
I believe that music builds community.
It is our shared passion and purpose... Their schedule The SCCMS presents each of its programs twice, first on a Saturday at 5pm at St. Gabriel’s Church in Marion, and then a second performance on Sunday at 3pm at Grace Church in New Bedford. Each concert is preceded by an informal talk by one of the musicians about the program being presented. A season subscription to all four concerts is only $67. Tickets and concert information are available at www.southcoastchambermusicsociety.org. The concerts will take place on November 5, 6, January 28 and 29, March 3, 4, and March 31 and April 1. Cobert is looking forward to a season of great music, but she also believes that what the SCCMS is doing involves more than music. “I believe that music builds community. It is our shared passion and purpose that create a community. It is my fervent wish that the music we are presenting this season will re-energize and inspire our audience members to be more than they thought possible, to challenge them to make a positive difference in our community and our world.” Is that asking too much of music “for a small room?” I don’t think so. David M. Prentiss, a resident of New Bedford, is the President and CEO of the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra. He is also active in the South Coast community as a volunteer, serving on the board of the Alma del Mar Charter School and as basketball coach at Our Sisters’ School.
True stories, real words, the music and voices that shaped America Part of a series of performances, exhibits, lectures and discussions of a time that changed our nation. Visit zeiterion.org for details.
CIVIL WAR – 150th ANNIVERSARY A NEW BIRTH OF FREEDOM
Reflections on the Civil War: 150 YEARS HENCE
It begins with a ticket...
www.zeiterion.org 508-994-2900 Zeiterion Performing Arts Center FREE GARAGE PARKING - FULL BAR
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to be continued… 167 Borden Street • Fall River, MA • 508.676.7169 Hours: Tue. & Sat. 10-3, Wed. thru Fri. 10-6 www.JJJewelry.com
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PRIME SEASON
F ind bargains
at secondhand stores Frugal became the new mindset in the South Coast and around the United States since the recession, and shopping at a consignment store can be like a S tephanie A fonso treasure hunt because you never know B l anchard what you’ll find. Be green and save money by shopping secondhand for gently-used clothing, furniture and more. Sporting and fitness equipment In addition to new bikes, shops like Yesteryear Cyclery in New Bedford refurbish and sell used ones. But if you come across a helmet at a yard sale, don’t buy it. Helmets should be purchased new for safety reasons. J&B Hockey & Sporting Goods in Fall River carries some used equipment. A bit farther away, 2nd Time Around Sports in Cranston, RI carries fitness equipment and sporting goods for many different sports.
a short time. Kids Echo in East Freetown sells clothing for babies, children and teens. You can find maternity apparel at Seconds Count in Fairhaven. Earn extra money by bringing well-preserved clothes that you no longer wear to consignment stores. They will try to sell the apparel and give you a percentage of the sale. If you don’t have time to meet with a consigner, consider dropping off your
Books Remains To Be Seen, beside Baker Books in Dartmouth, carries a wide range of used books. Bev Loves Books in Rochester also sells new and used.
Costumes Put together an original costume with pieces from a thrift store like Savers, which has locations in New Bedford, Fall River and Plymouth. With a little imagination, you can create many costumes including a scarecrow, 80s prom queen, disco dancer, bride and more.
Children’s and maternity clothing Buying these threads secondhand makes a lot of sense; children quickly grow out of clothes and maternity apparel is worn for
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items at the Salvation Army or Good Will stores. They’re always looking for donations, which can be a tax write off. Ask your tax preparer for details.
Furniture Furnishing your home can be expensive. Get good-as-new furniture and décor at What A Find! in Fairhaven. Second Helpings in Bristol, RI also carries gently-used furnishings, home goods and kitchen equipment. You can consign at both stores. Consigning furniture works just like consigning clothing.
Kitchenware You can find small appliances like toasters and blenders at thrift stores. Get a complete set of flatware or dishes there, too, or mix and match plates and flatware pieces to create eclectic sets. You can also pick up flower vases and candleholders to make a beautiful centerpiece for your table.
Video games GameStop stores in Dartmouth, Fairhaven and Fall River carry used video games at a fraction of what they cost new. Buying used games is really smart, since you never know how often your family will play them.
Vintage/contemporary apparel Scout vintage clothing at Calico in New Bedford and My Fair Lady Consignment Boutique in Marion. Sak’s Consignments in Swansea carries vintage hats dating back to the 50’s from the beloved Cherry & Web and Maguires stores. The store also sells authentic Coach, Dooney & Bourke, Brahmin and Fendi handbags. For contemporary attire, check out Thirds Resale Clothing in Bristol, RI.
Tell us about your finds This is only a sampling of the bargains and secondhand stores you can find throughout the South Coast. Do you like to visit a particular shop? Let us know by visting us on Facebook… www.facebook.com/thesouthcoastinsider Stephanie A fonso Blanchard is a consumer brands copywriter and fashion writer.
Consider consignments
C
onsignment furniture shopping offers an inexpensive alternative to retail stores for acquiring pieces that are functional, stylish, and unique. It’s the ‘thrill of the hunt that makes consignment shopping so interesting. Consignment shops offer the seller, the consignor, a safe, convenient way to sell furniture and home accessories. Consignors agree to leave their articles for a period of time (usually 90 to 120 days) and to share a percentage (often a 50/50 split) with the store. Linda and Leif Johannessen of What A Find!—Consignment Furniture & Home Decor on Route 6 in Fairhaven, decided there was a definite need in this area for an outlet for people who are downsizing, combining households or just wanting to redecorate their homes. A shop like the Johannessens’ also gives growing families, young apartment dwellers, and new home owners an opportunity to find something a little different, to bring new life to fine furnishings and one-of-a-kind decorative items. Many of their customers have a preference for ‘green’ products, and are happy to help the environment by ‘recycling’ previously owned furniture. What A Find! will not take items that are in need of refinishing, reupholstering or repair. Everything must be clean and ready to display on the showroom floor. These are quality furnishings which stand the test of time. Much of the furniture sold at consignment stores are pieces manufactured when we were all proud to say “Made in the USA”…when furniture was made to last!
Unique source for holiday gift items at surprisingly affordable prices! Books • Candy • Home Accessories • Fashion Accessories Including jewelry, handbags and scarves Items of Local Interest Visit our Candy Department for the largest selection of nostalgic treats in the area!
Clearance and sale items excluded • Can not be combined with any other offer.
Monday-Friday 9a.m. to 4 p.m. Weekend hours(from Nov. 20 to Dec. 30) Saturday & Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
451 Rock Street Fall River, MA corner of Maple Street (508) 679-1071 ext. 105
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PRIME SEASON
Give from
your heart Not from your retirement savings!
Eliz abeth Morse Read
No one should dread the upcoming holidays because of limited finances—likewise, no one needs to compound their budgetary woes by splurging and putting themselves in even deeper debt for fear of looking stingy or ungrateful for past gifts you’ve received. Here’s some sane advice on how to make giftgiving this year a pleasure for all, not a penance.
Make a list Start by making a list (and checking it at least twice!) of who really needs to be on your gift list. This doesn’t mean you have to “drop” anyone from your shopping list—but be realistic by categorizing who’s on your A list (immediate family, significant others, close friends), who’s on the B list (distant relatives, work colleagues and business acquaintances, good neighbors) and who’s on your C list (high school friends, golf buddies, the mailman, local charities). But wait, you might think, if I’m on a tight budget, why even have a B list or C list? Because your budgetary constraints do not excuse you from showing that you care and appreciate someone—think of it as realistically prioritizing your resources, not callously short-changing anyone. Remember: we’re all dealing with tight budgets these days, and a thoughtful gesture may be the best gift of all.
Profiling helps Create a quick profile of everyone on your A, B, and C lists—age, interests, current
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situation and needs. This will go a long way in helping you choose a meaningful gift that will be much appreciated, no matter what it cost you. For instance, your favorite niece with five kids will appreciate a grocery gift card more than a bottle of bath salts. A college student would love a homemade gift basket of packaged snacks, dorm toiletries, and a few gift cards for gas, pizza and movies near campus more than a new sweater. Your best buddy recovering from surgery would enjoy books or a magazine subscription more than a set of golf balls. For the person who already has everything, make a donation to their favorite charity. A friend who’s always too busy would appreciate a gift certificate for a facial or massage at a local spa. It’s the thought that counts—not the price tag— so give something that shows you really thought about it.
Change how you spend your
holiday money If you haven’t been socking away money in a Christmas Club account, commit to
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spending cash only when you shop—leave the credit cards at home. If you absolutely do need to use a credit card, use the one with the lowest interest rate. And make sure you set a limit to how much you can spend—and don’t forget to include gift wrap, postage/shipping costs, entertainment/travel costs when you figure out your total holiday budget. And why not share the cost! Consult with family and friends about pooling resources and buying one nice gift for someone, rather than each buying something small that will end up being re-gifted for next year’s “secret Santa” at the office. Your parents would just as much appreciate that new coffeemaker or weed-whacker “from all the kids” rather than fret that someone struggled to afford it as an individual. Your grandchildren would rather get that new video game “from Santa and Gramps” than not get it at all. And this strategy helps prevent duplicate gifts, with all the hassles of receipts and returns, if you consult beforehand with others on gift-giving plans and budgets. It also spares embarrassment for your brother who just got laid off—let him handle the calls and logistics in lieu of cash.
Don’t wait until the day after Thanksgiving to find bargains Start your search now for sales, discounts, two-fer specials. Pile up all your unused gift cards, coupons, gift certificates, rebates and potential “re-gifting” items. Many stores have brought back the lay-
away option—use that to help you stay within your weekly holiday budget. Browse through book stores (they also have bargains on CDs and DVDs), flea markets, thrift shops (I found beautiful Revere copper-bottom pots with covers for a song, a perfect gift for someone just starting out after college)—and check out all the little specialty shops in your town, too!
Why stand in line if you can
shop online ? Save your time and gas trying to chase down a bargain at the malls. Start surfing the Internet—it’s a lot easier to comparison-shop for particular items, and you can register for email alerts when things you want go on sale. Look carefully, too, for free shipping, delivery date guarantees and return policies, and sign up for free coupons—or print them out and use them at a local store! Buy the Sunday newspaper for all the sales inserts and coupons, then go to the merchant’s website (like BestBuy.com. Target.com) to see if there’s a better deal online. [see sidebar]
Be creative ! If you can knit or crochet, make hats for all those nieces and nephews. If you’re a kitchen whiz, give loaves of your nut breads, homemade relishes—or an IOU homemade “coupon” booklet to feed and babysit for someone’s kids so that your friends can have a few nights off in the New Year. If you’ve got a hobby, give something handmade—a birdhouse, seashell tree ornaments, a scrapbook of photos. If your grandson just got his driver’s license, give
him a AAA membership and a promise to renew it every year. Give an elderly aunt a prepaid cell phone for emergencies—and program your phone number into it.
Be careful about “re-gifting” It’s become acceptable these days to give someone something you already own, rather than spending money out of your pocket for a brand-new item. But be aware that many people still consider this as unappealing as receiving a musical e-card instead of a hand-written note. Know your recipient’s personality before you go this route—you don’t want your re-gifted gift to seem like a tacky last-minute afterthought. First, make sure it won’t start a family feud if you give your great-grandmother’s lace tablecloth to your daughter-in-law, especially if it’s something your own daughter has had her eye on since she was five years old. Second, don’t give something away if the person who gave it to you in the first place would be offended or hurt—and be especially careful that you don’t regift the item to the person who gave it to you! Third, make sure the item is clean, in working order, and doesn’t look like something you picked up at last week’s yard sale—your best friend may have always admired your Hermes silk scarf, but if it’s stained and wrinkled when she opens the box, she may be a tad offended. And last, never give away monogrammed, autographed, or rare, one-of-a-kind collector’s items, especially to someone who won’t use them or appreciate their sentimental value—you might see them later on e-bay or Craigslist!
Savvy online shopping Check out the following websites for holiday savings and suggestions: For coupons, bargains and sales alerts, go to groupon.com, recipe.com/coupons, eversave.com, dealnews.com, GottaDeal.com, Slickdeals.net or DODTracker.com (deal of the day) For comparison shopping and bargains, start with Amazon.com, Pronto.com or a Google product search For discounted gift cards, go to PlasticJungle.com or GiftCardGranny.com
Giving of your time is the
greatest gift of all ! Offer to run holiday errands for someone with limited time, to babysit so that someone can shop in peace, or to take someone shopping with you who doesn’t have a car of their own. Volunteer a few hours at a local charity event. Invite someone who lives alone or who’s been recently bereaved to join your family celebrations and activities. Gather up everyone’s kids and their friends to make popcorn-and-cranberries garlands or peanut butter and seed on pinecones decorations for the winter birds. And teach them how to sing carols while you’re at it.
Get a head start on your
spring cleaning Make room for the gifts you’ll be buying by cleaning out your cupboards, closets, attic, cellar and garage. Unopened nonperishable foods can be donated to the local food pantry; pet food and supplies can be given to the nearest animal shelter; out-grown clothing and no-longer-used or needed household items can be offered at www.freecycle.org. Many local families can’t afford to buy gifts of any sort this year, so your offering, no matter how humble, will be re-used well and gratefully. Many a friendship has started on freecycle.org…
Cut back on the “extras” Instead of sending fancy Christmas cards, send postcards (cheaper postage) or handwritten letters or, if appropriate, an e-card. Instead of buying expensive wrapping paper, use the comics section from your Sunday paper, have the kids draw on newsprint and use that, or try using leftover fabric and ribbons. Instead of throwing a fancy cocktail party, plan a progressive dinner party with your family, friends and neighbors. And cut back on your electricity bill by minimizing your outside lighting (and switch to LED fixtures) and using a timer on your tree lights. Elizabeth Morse Read is an award-winning writer, editor and artist who grew up on the South Coast. After twenty years of working in New York City and traveling the world, she came back home with her children and lives in Fairhaven.
For info on free shipping deals, go to FreeShipping.org
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PRIME SEASON
Brenda Grace A voice for grandparents raising grandchildren
The annals of history give testimony to the power of a mother’s love to redeem, to right wrongs, to resist evil, to protect, to inspire and to lead the way to freedom. Motherhood Richard is naturally empowering and can transform Clark any woman into a crusader for justice and equity. The latter is exactly what happened to Brenda Grace, mother, grandmother and advocate for the rights and needs of grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. The day that Brenda Grace realized she had to take on that task of raising her granddaughters she felt angry and resentful at having to assume such a responsibility at an age when most people look forward to slowing down, relaxing and enjoying the rewards of life’s second half. Some people become frightened by their own anger, feeling that it is the opposite of love, but, in reality, it is just a transitional, motivating, empowering form of love that gets things done. Much of Brenda’s anger was the result of not being able to find immediate help, advice or support.
From anger to action Not willing to be a victim, Brenda became proactive, picking up the phone and contacting local “public servants” who really lived up to the title: people like Brian Gomes, Debbie Coelho and Antone Cabral. They gave Brenda the contacts and introductions that catapulted her into a position of active advocacy at the state level
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for grandparents raising grandchildren. “I opened a lot of doorways with my mouth. I opened a lot of avenues that I hope will be taken advantage of.” Brenda Grace’s zeal and determination were recognized as valuable assets to the legislative process, and she was soon appointed as a Commissioner with the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. This Commission was created as part of the Child Advocate bill which was signed into law on July 8, 2008. The Commission’s aim is to foster unity among those grandparents raising grandchildren; it promotes cooperation, sharing of information, and joint activities among agencies and organizations. The Commission is a liaison between government and private interest groups. The Commissioners are advisors for both the executive and legislative bodies regarding proposed legislation that might affect grandparents and their parenting roles. The Commission meets monthly at locations throughout the state, and these meetings are open to the public. During Brenda Grace’s tenure as a Commissioner, the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren produced an extremely helpful, information-packed brochure. One of the issues dealt with is question of when and how to gain legal custody of a grandchild. Guardianship is something that should be considered quite promptly and can be either temporary or permanent. This gives the grandparent the authority to act on behalf of the grandchild, especially in making medical, educational and financial decisions.
The brochure can be found online at www.mass.gov/Eelders/ docs/caregiver/grandparents_raising_grandchildren.pdf It is estimated that more than six million children, nationwide, are living in households headed by grandparents. One of Brenda Grace’s greatest frustrations is the number of parents who find it seemingly so easy to walk away from their responsibility for the children they have brought into the world. There are in excess of 25,000 children currently in state custody. Usually, the reason is a parental addiction to drugs or alcohol. Addictions seem to numb the paternal sense of responsibility to one’s children. Laws can define responsibility, but they cannot generate or inspire ta parent’s normal love for a child.
Sometimes a happy ending In Brenda Grace’s case, things have turned out rather well. “My daughter is clean and has been for 2½ years. She has a job, and she has her children. She tells me: ‘Ma, thank you.’ And I say to her: ‘You gave me the best education I could have.’ In reality, my daughter educated me in many ways.” Addicted mothers do tend to have more of a sense of responsibility than do addictive fathers who, often, all too easily walk away. Brenda Grace is concerned and hopeful that we, as communities, as a society, can somehow begin to turn things around and more proactively require fathers to recognize their responsibili-
What is challenging for
425 Hawthorn St. • New Bedford, MA • (508) 991-4556
parents is even more so for grandparents who must deal with the same cultural stresses and influences. ties, both financial and emotional, and to challenge mothers to accept the universal calling of motherhood and, at the same time find their own self-worth…and freedom. The problem must be addressed with more than mere rhetoric. Non-addicted, well functioning, responsible parents are facing many challenges to their parenthood skills today. Social networking, instant messaging, the erosion of responsible media content, a blasé attitude towards sexuality and its role in human development are all challenging the strength of parental love and the limits of parental responsibility. Where do parents find role models for support? Where do today’s parents find help and encouragement? How can today’s parents (and potential grandparents) effectively influence and inspire responsible behavior in their teens who live in an “instant” and rather secretive culture? What is challenging for parents is even more so for grandparents who must deal with the same cultural stresses and influences. But there is strength and support… in numbers, and that’s the purpose of the Support Group for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren which meets every third Tuesday of the month at the New Bedford City Hall on the first floor, from 6-8:00 p.m. Brenda Grace is the Leader and can be contacted at: bgrace_1@ yahoo.com
Why wait for out of town weekend buyers and long distance mailorder services — Certified Jewelry Store with 120 years of experience —
WE PAY EVERYDAY Gold Coins, Gold Watches, Class Rings, etc. Price based on the Spot Gold Price THE MOMENT YOU SELL! 1473 SOUTH MAIN ST., FALL RIVER 508-672-6421 HOURS: Mon-Fri 9:30am – 5:00pm; Sat. 9:30am-4:00pm
www.patenaudejewelers.com
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Prime Living
Top 5 reasons to
E at Vegetarian at least one day a week
Three years ago I decided to make a deliberate effort to be more conscious about what foods I put on my plate, which among other Melissa things meant eating less Tavares meat. I’m certainly not a vegetarian, but I do try to avoid meat a few days a week and hardly make it the main ingredient of a meal. I challenge you and your family to join the millions of Americans already adhering to a Meatless Monday, and try to go vegetarian a least one day a week. Here are my top 5 reasons for going “part-time” vegetarian:
Better for your health Study after study has proved that a diet lower in animal fats and higher in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps contribute to good health. In fact, people who eat less meat are less susceptible to disease and consequently live longer. Most people that decide to become part-time vegetarians—myself included—even find that they lose weight.
Better for your wallet Thirty dollars can buy a whole lot of beans and grains, but won’t go nearly as far on meats or fish. You’d be surprised to see the positive effect on your bottom line if you were to eliminate and replace
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just half of the meat in your shopping cart with these common vegetarian staples.
Better for the planet The United Nations stirred up considerable debate a few years ago when it claimed that livestock was responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, a higher percentage than that of transportation! Regardless of your position on this issue, it’s scientifically accepted that it takes roughly ten times more energy to produce a pound of meat than a pound of grains, beans, or vegetables.
Better for the animals Over time, the industrialization of the meat industry has led to the poorer treatment of farm animals as factory farms have by and large replaced smaller family farms. By spending the same amount of money on less meat sourced from local farms, you can help ensure animal welfare while still keeping your budget in check.
Better for your taste buds Vegetables are delicious, and there’s no better way to appreciate the season’s best vegetables than to make them the centerpiece of your menu. With the right arsenal of meat-free recipes, vegetarian meals can open a whole new window of culinary adventures.
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>>> pictured above
Orzo Salad with Spinach and Goat Cheese makes 6 servings 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt 8 ounces orzo pasta 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil freshly ground black pepper 8 oz fresh spinach, stems removed, finely chopped 1 bunch fresh basil, finely chopped 6 oz crumbled goat cheese In a large bowl combine the red onion, balsamic vinegar, honey, and salt. Mix well and allow to sit at room temperature for 1/2 hour. Cook and drain the orzo, and then rinse it with cold water. Set aside. Once the onions have marinated in the vinegar mixture, whisk in the olive oil and black pepper. Stir in the spinach, basil, and goat cheese. Add additional salt if needed. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to blend together.
Spinach is special Not many foods have a higher nutritional content than spinach. Not only low in calories, fresh spinach is also loaded with antioxidants and is a great source of iron, calcium, folic acid and vitamins K, C, and A. Spinach can help make your bones
stronger, as well as decrease your chances of developing heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. The CDC says that eating spinach with other foods high in vitamin C such as oranges and tomatoes can improve iron absorption by your body.
Live local. Shop local. Read local. Eat local.
865 Main Road, Westport, MA 508-636-2572 Daily 9:30-5:00
Spinach Pie Quesadillas
partnersvillagestore.com
serves 4 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped pinch red pepper flakes (optional) 1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt 1 lb fresh spinach, stems removed juice of 1/2 a lemon 8 burrito size flour tortillas 8 oz fresh ricotta cheese 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese marinara sauce for serving In a large pot heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes over medium heat for about 1 minute; do not let the garlic brown. Add all of the spinach and salt, toss it with the oil, cover the pot, and cook it for 2 minutes. Uncover the pot and cook the spinach for an additional minute until all the spinach is wilted. Stir in the lemon juice. Using a slotted spoon, remove the spinach from the pot, leaving any excess liquid behind. Spread the flour tortillas out on a work surface and spread a layer of ricotta cheese on each of them. Scatter the spinach over the
ricotta and then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella. Fold each tortilla in half to form 8 half round quesadillas. Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Coat the pan with a bit of olive oil and add 2 quesadillas. When the bottoms have turned golden brown, carefully turn each quesadilla over and then brown on the second side. Remove the quesadillas from the pan, and put them in a 200 degree oven to keep warm. Add a bit more oil to the pan and then repeat with the remaining quesadillas. Cut each quesadilla in half and serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Melissa Tavares is a lifelong South Coast resident, blogger, and food enthusiast. Melissa pens the food blog Ava Catau: You Are What You Eat, at www.avacatau.com. Email: ava.catau@gmail.com
— Elegant and simple — F resh and local f For all ages Mention this ad and receive a FREE cup of chowder 11:30-9pm Sun / Tue / Wed 11:30-10pm Thu-Sat f Closed Monday
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www.blackbassma.com S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
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Prime Living
What’s swimming on your pl ate ?
Without a doubt, eating seafood is better for your health and the environment than eating red meat. But before you increase your consumption of finned fish, crustaceans Eliz abeth Morse Read (crabs, lobsters, shrimp) or shellfish (clams, oysters, mussels), arm yourself with the facts that will help you make safer and more environmentallyfriendly choices at the fish counter or in restaurants.
We humans are at the top of the food chain—we eat the big fish who ate the little fish who ate the tiny plankton; so we’re eating them all. Anything that infected or contaminated anything along the food chain ends up in our bodies, willy-nilly (this is called biomagnification). We can be affected acutely (ever had the turista hot-trots south of the border?) or we can be dosed lethally or suffer irreversible damage (as with industrial waste poisoning).
in a consumer world where much of the seafood in our stores came from far away (more than 80% of seafood sold in the U.S. is imported). That bag of frozen shrimp on sale may have come from a place that is so polluted that you’re eating some Third World country’s trash. Or that tuna steak you grill may have been caught wild, but too many dolphins died in the net that caught the tuna. Or the raw oysters you slurp may have come from a seabed fouled by an oil spill.
We also need to understand that if you flush anything down the toilet or the sink or hose down your driveway, garden or lawn, it’s going to get into the ground water which gets into the creeks, rivers, lakes and eventually the ocean where our seafood lives—and then we eat all that, too. Toxic pesticides/fertilizers, petroleum/ plastic litter, pharmaceuticals and fecalcontamination, industrial waste. And everything that goes into our mouths ends up getting stored in our body.
I am a seafood lover and I greatly appreciate living on the South Coast, close to the nation’s top-grossing fishing port, for the quality, quantity and diversity of the fresh seafood I can buy, so I’m certainly not trying to scare people or give them a fishphobia. But becoming a more informed consumer can only be for the better.
Some basic facts We are all connected. We are all part of a food chain, an ecosystem and living
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What’s in your waterway?
We’re talking carcinogenic and lethal substances, folks, not just parasites and bacteria that cause diarrhea.
What to look for So, armed with that gloomy background, here’s what you need to be on the lookout for when you buy or eat seafoods. More and more fish counters/shops are displaying important information at the pointof-purchase to help you make the best choice—if they don’t, let them know you want it or else you’ll take your business elsewhere! n Country of origin - Did that tilapia, shrimp or salmon come from a region/ country that has heavy pollution in its waterways? It pays to be aware of global events that could affect the safety of seafoods sold over here. n
Catch method – This is very confus-
ing for many people, but it’s important to know whether your fish was wild-caught or farmed. Wild is usually a better choice, but be aware that there are some potential downsides to that (e.g., Is it an endangered or overfished species? Were other marine lifeforms such as seals, dolphins, whales endangered during the hunt?) Farmed seafoods (aquaculture) can be grown in toxic, unsustainable manners depending upon country of origin, although more and more farmed seafood is safe to eat. And here are some creepy things that can happen along the food chain before it’s on your plate: n A irborne contaminants – If the Fukushima nuclear crisis hasn’t alerted you already (radioactive particles were detected in Massachusetts only three weeks after the earthquake/tsunami), whatever gets into the air gets carried around the globe in air currents/jet streams and reaches you eventually, no matter where you live. It settles onto the land and the waterways— and therefore into the seafood , plants and animal products you eat. Likewise, toxic smokestack emissions, car exhaust, volcanic eruptions/wildfire smoke rises up and then mixes with regional weather conditions to create what’s generally called acid rain, whether it’s rain, snow, dew, fog. The bad stuff clings to the precipitation, and ends up killing entire forests, creating “dead zones” in lakes and rivers, and just generally making life miserable for any form of life.
Sewage contamination – We may live in a developed nation, but many people in the rest of the world use “night soil” (human waste) as fertilizer and if you drink water or eat food that has been raised, rinsed or handled in that environment (and much of what we eat, not just seafood, is imported), you risk e.coli infections (think Montezuma’s Revenge), parasitic worms, and pathogens which cause diarrheal diseases like dysentery, cholera and a whole lot more that can be life-threatening. Diarrheal diseases due to poor sanitation and access to clean drinking water leads to dehydration, which is responsible for the death of millions of children under the age of five years old worldwide every year—more than deaths caused by malaria, AIDs and tuberculosis combined—and ¼ of those children are from India. So the seafood from those regions is liable to be influenced by that, too, seeing as all the run-off from farms ends up in the waterway. But, even though we do live in a developed nation, we pollute our sewage waters by carelessly dumping old medications, toxic cleaning materials and whatnot down the toilet or sink. Birth-control pills and other hormones can disrupt the development and reproductive cycles of many forms of sea life (e.g., lobsters’ shells can soften.). And people who eat them risk hormonal disruption themselves. In Puerto Rico and other countries, a rash of early-onset puberty (8 years old and under) in children was suspected to be linked to this form of contamination.
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Toxic cleaning material – The phosphates in laundry detergent, the chlorine in bleaches poison just about anything in their path through our waters. And those sea creatures in the food cycle they don’t kill end up served with chips on Friday or in the fish sticks at the middle school cafeteria.
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Polluted “run-off” – When it rains on a garden or farm that uses toxic pesticides and fertilizers, when you hose down your driveway after changing your car’s oil, the water drains into the sewer, which leaks into the groundwater, which… yadda, yadda.( I think you’re seeing the point by now.)
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Toxic pesticides and fertilizers – (Remember Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring?)
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Seafood tips What you can do
sure that no health advisory has been issued for your favorite fishing hole.
Buy your seafood only from reputable fish dealers who provide the information you need—and if they don’t, buy your seafood elsewhere. Learn how to inspect that fish with your eyes, fingers and nose. It should be shiny (not slimy or mushy) with bright eyes, and not have a strong “fishy” smell. Buy a whole fish and have it gutted, skinned and boned before taking it home. Avoid buying “previously frozen” products. Seafood is highly perishable, so buy it last on your shopping trip, and put it in a cooler/insulated shopping bag in your car if you won’t be putting it in your ‘fridge within the hour. It must be kept at near-freezing temperature at all times and cooked as soon as possible from catch-to-kitchen. (In Japanese fish stores,the price of displayed items is discounted as the day goes on.) Crustaceans (like lobster) and some shellfish (but never scallops) are sold live. Lobsters should still be moving their legs and clam/oyster/mussel shells must be tightly closed (otherwise they’re dead and inedible). Be vigilant about food safety and the potential for cross-contamination. Never let fish liquids touch other foods in your ‘fridge, your counters or utensils. Scrub them all down (including your hands) before cooking other foods/ingredients. When travelling, avoid eating the local seafood, unless you’re sure they’re safe to eat. Certain seafoods are potentially poisonous and should never be eaten, no matter where—coral reef species such as barracuda, moray eel), Japanese pufferfish (fugu), snails (escargot) depending on country of origin. And when ordering seafood while visiting land-locked states, know that what they’re serving is at least a few days old and NOT fresh. And be wary of sushi/sashimi/surimi unless you really trust the establishment. If you like to go fishing or dig your own clams, check with your local board of health/game and fish warden to make
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What about mercury? This subject has gotten a lot of press in recent decades, but here’s the facts. Mercury, which is a toxic heavy metal if ingested at unsafe levels, is also a naturally-occurring element since time began. Even fossil fish show traces of mercury contamination, and over the millennia, our bodies have adapted to exposure to certain levels. But if you live near an industrial/power plant site that emits mercury into the air you breathe or the water you swim in and drink, you should limit your consumption of seafoods that have a higherthan-average mercury contamination, especially if you are pregnant/nursing, infirm/elderly or under two years old. Unfortunately, the fish most likely to have noticeable concentrations of mercury are the top-of-the-seafood-chain predatory fish that contain the really healthy omega-3 fatty acids. So everything’s a balancing act.
Seafood info at your fingertips Go to the Environmental Defense Fund’s website (www.edf. org) and their “seafood selector” to make purchasing choices that are safest for you and the environment. Go to www.eartheasy.com for a sustainable seafood guide. But make sure to print out a wallet-size Seafood Watch guide for your region at www.montereybayaquarium.org. They even offer a free app for your iPhone or mobile device!
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Continued from previous page These also poison everything in their path, and have long been linked to unusual outbreaks of cancers and neural disorders (including autism) in towns abutting large agricultural complexes in southern California. n Industrial waste – This is the granddaddy of all the bad things that get into water, infect the fish, and ultimately affect the humans who eat the fish. We’ve made great strides in recent decades in curbing the dumping of toxic industrial wastes and mining by-products into our soil and waters, but we must remain vigilant.
Heavy metals – Mercury, lead, cadmium can kill or cripple if ingested/breathed by humans. All it takes is a natural disaster to cancel out safety design measures (again, think of the Fukushima nuclear plants). In the 1950s, a plastics factory in northwestern Japan dumped toxic waste into the river, which got into the waterways. The local population, who ate a predominately fish-based diet, developed what’s called Minamata/Chisso disease, a terrible neurological disorder that caused severe birth defects and death/motor disabilities in thousands of the local population.
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Thermal pollution – Many power plants and factories recycle heated water into nearby waterways, thereby raising the water temperature—which can kill entire species, destroy marine ecosystems, and encourage algae blooms (red tides) by reducing the oxygen content of the water. These are incidences of rampant proliferation of potentially toxic microorganisms (think pond scum) in lakes, rivers and coastal waters. They are keenly sensitive to upward changes in water temperature, no matter what the cause, and they’re eaten by the next-in-the-line on the food chain, especially shellfish and crustaceans, which get eaten by humans who are screaming “food poisoning!” the next day. Know what’s happening in the waters your seafood dinner came from. If you wouldn’t eat the fish your brother-in-law caught in a polluted river or pond, don’t eat anything that came from red tide waters anywhere on the globe. n
Oil spills – Whether it’s the shiny sheen around idling recreational/fishing boats and huge industrial steamers in the
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harbor or the result of a tragic disaster like the Deepwater Horizon BP in the Gulf Coast, petrochemical pollution of our waters is a totally-preventable threat. The immediate threat is to the fish, birds, sealife and marshlands nearest the spill, but the long-term effects on ecosystems, the economy, and anyone who eats a tainted oyster are very bad. And the same goes for anything made from petrochemicals (like plastic bottles and bags) that get dumped into the waterways.
Marine litter – Driftwood is pretty on the shoreline, but a snarl of syringes, plastic bottles and bags and empty cans of DW40 are not. Much of this human trash is blown from land-fill sites into the waterway; some is thoughtlessly dumped overboard by boaters and ships and the rest is trash like soda cans, Styrofoam packages and whatever we throw out the car window or into a sewer. We need to remember that everything ends up in our waterways. Plastic six-pack rings strangle seabirds. Plastic bags choke turtles and even whales. Fish eat cigarette butts, plastic particles and whatever looks like “food.” Lost or discarded fishnets ensnare and kill sea mammals. We may have come a long way about “cleaning up our act” (thank you, Lady Bird) on our highways, but we’ve got a long way to go about learning how not to add to the pollution in our waters (which ultimately affects us as end-of-the-food-chain consumers.) n
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A nd what about “Frankenfish”? As if the above warnings weren’t enough to make you nervous, genetically-modified Atlantic salmon may soon be sold at your market. Scientists have “tweaked” and spliced their DNA to produce fish that are twice as big (at half the growth rate of regular salmon). The FDA has already approved them for human consumption, but no long-term studies have been conducted to find out what potential effects eating geneticallymodified fish will have on humans, or what happens if these fish-farmed designer critters escape and breed with the wild salmon. And don’t forget that the FDA is the same beleaguered agency that inspects less than 2% of the seafood imports into this country, even though 80% of the seafoods (whether fresh, frozen or canned) sold and eaten in this country is imported.
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Your Health
To supplement or not? Lynn Tondat Ruggeri
One argument for taking vitamins and minerals is that the plant-based foods lowest on the food chain may no longer provide enough nutrients due to manmade deficiencies in the soil, due to over use of chemical fertilizers, over
farming etc. Another point that health experts cite is that in order to “co-exist” with modern technology and pollutants we need supplements and especially strong antioxidants to counteract the constant bombardment to our systems by environmental toxins. Others point to modern era life-style changes causing what amounts to nutritional bankruptcy—in other words a “junk in, junk out” philosophy.
E ating habits PLUS supplements The fix is to change eating habits to consume more organic, vegetable-based, non-processed, non-microwaved foods as well as to use supplements to assure overall proper nutrition. Nutrient deficiencies requiring supplements can also occur if our ability to absorb those nutrients is impaired. For example, as we age we tend to absorb less nutrients (especially minerals) from foods due to lowered HCL (hydrochloric acid)
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in our stomach. The absorption is lowered even more when individuals take antacids. Regardless of the reasons for deficiencies, it’s clear that when we are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals our health will likely suffer. For those willing to consider supplements, the quandary then becomes which supplements to take. To be sure, responses can be overly dependant on the “latest” research, fad, or the “cure-all” testimonials on TV and radio, and likely less on what legitimate research had shown. Wading through the ads, online reports and published information can be a daunting task. Reading the product labels carefully can give some clues as to the intended use of the product. Online searches can provide product review and evaluations of specific products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements as they do medicine and thus on supplement labels you will see a statement posted that the FDA has not evaluated any statements or claims and that the product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The label will list the RDA (required daily amounts) often as a percent daily value for each nutrient ingredient, and that is helpful. It is important to read all of the ingredients carefully to be sure there is none that could be an issue for someone who
might have an allergy to the supplement source (e. g. seafood, gluten, dairy).
Individual choices My own supplement list has changed over the years, mostly depending on my medical condition and the recommendations of a wonderful array of medical health professionals all of whom have additional training in nutrition. I also rely on reputable web sites and nutritional publications for updates. Most medical doctors will now recommend taking a multivitamin and may even recommend some specific supplements depending on your medical condition and lifestyle. For example, for seniors higher amounts of vitamin D and B12 depending on blood test levels may be recommended; also calcium citrate may be recommended over calcium carbonate for better absorption. Still everyone is a little different in their needs and reactions to supplements, so working with your doctor to fine-tune this is important. In my own case although it was recommended that I take a multivitamin, I have never been able to, as every brand I have ever tried has upset my stomach. I suspect that I react to the B vitamins in the multi, but I just don’t know. So I take individual ones or some combinations. Currently I have settled on daily supplementation with vitamin D3, Co-Q-10, zinc, selenium, B12 (sub-lingual), calcium/ magnesium/boron formula, vitamin C and fish oil (omega 3 fatty acids). Most recently I am trying krill oil (omega fatty acids from krill crustacean) and a very interesting supplement called astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is derived from algae and according to reports is an antioxidant super power. While some research has pointed to health benefits such as to help joints and decrease inflammation these and other claims have not been accepted by the established medical community. However, since I have added these my joint pain has vanished. Do your own research using online search and other resources; check for any reported adverse effect, potential drug interactions or unintended side effects, and most certainly check with your medical doctor before making any changes to your regimen.
Lynn Tondat Ruggeri, Ph.D. interests are in nutrition, health and environmental toxins, ADHD, drug addiction, and immune system enhancement.
Southcoast VNA Your care. Your comfort.Your way.
We know you have a choice when selecting your home health or hospice care provider. You can be assured that when you choose Southcoast VNA, you are getting the best care possible. Southcoast VNA offers a full range of skilled home health care, hospice and palliative care services from highly trained, screened and credentialed health care professionals. • Hospice & Palliative Care • Rehabilitation Services • Infusion Services • Skilled Nursing • Rehabilitation Services • Wound Management Available 24 hours a day, every day. Serving all of Southeastern Massachusetts & East Bay, Rhode Island.
Administrative Office South Coast Business Center 200 Mill Road Fairhaven, MA Community Office Locations 244 North Main Street Raynham, MA 1822 North Main Street Fall River, MA Linden Tree Family Health Center 2444 East Main Road Portsmouth, RI
For more information, or to make a referral call 800-698-6877 or visit www.southcoastvna.org
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North Farm
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– Somerset – Apartments 508-676-9700 508-636-6775 Equal Housing Opportunity
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Prime Wines
Oak & wines “Wine without oak is like ham without smoke.” So just like ham, many people think that there needs to be a bit of oak to make a wine that tastes good, especially if it is red. When you think about it though, how did we ever get started in liking wine with that particular flavor? Well, it has to do with history and tradition. In ancient times, as far back as King Tut in Egyptian days, wine was usually stored in clay vessels. The potters made slender and pointed-bottom clay vessels called amphoras. The pointed bottoms provided a base for the vessel to be stabilized in the sand. The Greeks and latter the Romans continued to use this style of container to store and ship wine. Sunken ancient boats filled with these wine amphoras have been found at the bottom of the Mediterranean.
The old oaken barrel Around the end of the first century B.C. the skill for producing a water tight wooden barrel came along. Wine makers found they could make wooden barrels that were much larger and less breakable than the clay amphora. In addition, these barrels could be “rolled” on the piers, making it
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easy to load on ships. It was only a matter of time until the winemakers realized that some wooden barrels actually improved the flavor of the wine, especially those made from oak. So today, winemakers still use oak barrels to age and flavor their wines. That flavor of the oak has become an acquired and desirable taste. The barrel contributes more than just a convenient way to store the wine and add a little flavor. The wine itself seems to improve for other reasons. First, the “aging “ in the oak makes the wine softer and more pleasant. The process here is quite complicated, as it apparently involves micro oxygenation through the barrel staves. Finally, over a period of time, both some alcohol and some water will evaporate making a small but perceptible concentration of the wine’s flavors, resulting in a slight intensification of flavor and aroma. There are literally hundreds of species of oak trees., but only about 20 types are used for wine barrels. The characteristics of oak vary depending on the region. Not just the country but regions in France, such as Never and Limousine, and in the U S. from oak forests in New York and the Ozarks. Good oak wine barrels are also produced from oak trees harvested in Yugoslavia and Hungary.
Complex effects The most common flavor developed in most oak barrels is usually described as “vanilla.” But other aromas and flavors made by contact with the barrel are often found in complex wines, and described as coffee, spice, tar, and burnt wood. They are often detected especially in some of the classic red wines, and are a result of the oak barrels. It is obvious that wine makers go to great lengths to make their wines more complex by using oak. Winemaker Greg Winters has created a masterpiece at the Sonoma Valley, Valley of the Moon (winery), by aging his 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon in small French, Hungarian and American oak barrels for 22 months. The product release for this wine describes it as having an aroma of “black current, bittersweet chocolate, cedar and herbs.”
A merican vs. French The legendary wine maker, Andre Tchelistcheff, at the Napa Valley Beaulieu Vineyard, gained his greatest fame making their B.V. Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, aging it in 100 percent American oak barrels. Tchelistcheff admits that the main reason B.V. used American oak was that it was less expensive than the French oak barrels. B.V. to this day still uses a lot of American oak, a technique out of favor with the vast majority of California winemakers today, which prefer to use French oak barrels. B.V. eventually started using some French oak as a complement to their American barrels in recent years. They have also been adding a little Merlot to this archetype Napa Valley red wine. Today the wine still reflects the
Oak wine
barrels enhance flavor, aroma, and add to the complexity of the wine. great B.V. character though perhaps is not quite as robust. The Spanish winemakers have had a love affair with American oak for many years. Though some wags say that this is so because they eschew using French Oak because of its origin. It seems that in some young inexpensive Spanish wines, the American oak is so intense that you worry that you might get splinters. It is interesting to note that Australia’s most expensive wine, Penfold’s Grange Hermitage, is made from fully ripe Shiraz grapes and aged in new American oak Outside of Tyler, Texas, in the restaurant associated with an award winning winery named Kiepersol, it was curious to find a small rod of oak that had been inserted in the bottle itself. It was apparently done to
reduce the expense and time in the barrel but to still get more of the oak flavor in the wine. They are the only winery I know of that uses that trick. Some may ask if there is really a difference between American and French oak. The answer is there are several differences. American oak has a “broader” grain than the French oak, which is very close. The closer grain tends to impart the oak characteristics (vanilla, spice and butter flavors) much more slowly than wood with a looser grain. So when the oak really stands out in a wine, the wine was probably aged in American oak.
Other details Another aspect of the aging of wine in an oak barrel relates to the way the barrel stave was made. The process of forming the “curve” of the stave involves bending a moist stave over a fire; the flame causes the inside of the stave to develop a “char” or toast. The level of the toast as well as the grain, cellar and amount of time the wine is in the oak barrel, all influence the character of the wine. When a wine barrel is used for about 5 years it becomes neutral in its influence on the taste of the wine. Most German wines never see oak, though some old neutral barrels may be used to store the wines. Most of the great wines of the world, especially reds, are aged in oak wine barrels as opposed to stainless steel tanks. The oak wine barrels enhance flavor, aroma, and add to the complexity of the wine. Oak wine barrels “breathe” which permits a limited amount of air to make contact with the wine allowing in a bit of oxidation process which actually enhances the wine. Not every one likes to have “oak” flavor in their wine. But most wine lovers look for the hint of oak, which, for them, makes the wine more complex. So here’s a “toast” to the makers of fine wine barrels, in addition to the great wine makers who use them. Alton L. Long is a freelance writer, educator and event producer specializing in wine, food and travel. He lives in Tiverton.
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Prime Living
Caring
for t he c a r egi v er By Joyce Rowley
The elderly woman at the yard sale seemed desperate to talk to someone. A casual conversation turned into a discussion of her husband’s prostate cancer. Although he had survived, it was clear she was still reeling from it, because on top of the shock of having a loved one with cancer, a caregiver has to become equal parts medical coordinator, chauffeur, nurse and maid, on call 24/7. For the elderly caregiver, this is often done while dealing with one’s own medical needs and constraints. “What about me?” she asked. “Who will take care of me if I get sick?” So I asked our South Coast healthcare providers what resources were out there to help senior caregivers adjust to these multiple roles while keeping up their own health. Here’s what they had to say:
When care in your home is realistic Joanne Gregory, Director of Community Affairs Southcoast Visiting Nursing Agency 101 Page Street, New Bedford, MA 508-676-8251 • www.southcoast.org/vna Providing health and hospice care in the home setting provides many benefits to both the individual and their senior caregivers. Care delivered in the privacy and comfort of one’s home is tailored to each individual’s needs and involves the senior caregiver throughout the process. However, often times senior caregivers lack the skills and/or resources needed to provide care to their loved one. Southcoast VNA staff provide senior caregivers with support and education they need to care for their loved one and themselves.
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Caring for a family member or friend is not easy, nor is it something most of us are prepared to do. Southcoast VNA’s hospice and palliative care program staff and volunteers provide respite for caregivers throughout the illness and are able to provide individual counseling and bereavement support for up to 13 months after the death. Holly Stevens and Keith Guinen, Directors Beacon Adult Foster Care 227 Walnut Street, New Bedford, MA 774-202-1837 • www.beaconafc.com Senior caregivers are less likely to attend to their own health care needs. As a result, their own health may get sidelined as the care of another takes precedence. Beacon Adult Foster Care provides our caregivers with support and educational materials on how to care for themselves and recognize that they are not alone. Caring for another person is expensive. The costs of medications, transportation and housing can quickly add up and place a severe strain on the budget. Many seniors are on a fixed income and may have a difficult time paying these costs. Seniors are often unaware of the services and resources available to them. Beacon Adult Foster Care pays caregivers a tax-free stipend to care for their loved ones at home, and as a member of the South Coast Senior Resource Association, we are able to call upon a network of senior care agencies to meet a wide variety of service needs. (Note: Funding for adult foster care is through the State Medicaid program that currently does not fund spouses as caregivers. Mr. Guinen said that there is legislation pending that would change that to allow spouses to be paid a stipend in order to keep patients at home and defray the cost of nursing homes.)
When staying at home is not an option When long-term palliative care is needed, there’s assisted living: Mark Barwise, Executive Director Autumn Glen at Dartmouth 239 Cross Road North Dartmouth, MA 508-992-8880 www.autumnglenatdartmouth.com
Our involvement with seniors is providing them an alternative to staying at home. As an assisted living community our residents enjoy the independence of their own private apartments with the safety and security of nursing and supportive services. Spouses and adult children responsible for caregiving face the stresses and challenges of care, medical management, transportation, doctors’ appointments, social activities, housekeeping laundry and more. Those are the things that assisted living does. We establish a care plan for them and staffing to assist in medical management for example, to make sure that they’re getting their medications on a regular basis One of the greatest rewards is when the caregiver, who has had to worry about every little detail, stops by to visit and Mom is too busy. When she asks them to call ahead next time, you see the relief on the faces of the caregivers as the weight is lifted off their shoulders. They get to go back to their primary role as spouse or son or daughter.
trinity repertory
company
Celebrate the holiday season at Trinity Rep!
by Charles Dickens Nov. 18 – Dec. 30
Trish Hunter, Director of Planning and Community Development Bristol Elder Services, Inc. 1 Father DeValles Blvd, Unit 8, Fall River, MA 508-675-2101 • www.bristolelder.org Bristol Elder Services covers the Greater Fall River area, Taunton and Attleboro. We also provide Adult Protective Services and Personal Care Attendants in the Greater New Bedford Area. We do both information and referral as well as program care. What makes it easier for the senior caregiver is if they plan for the aging process. It’s important to be proactive about your health care while your health is good. There are some very practical steps you can take. Make sure you have a will and a health care proxy. Have a conversation with your spouse and adult children about what they want if something happens. Do they want to go to an assisted living facility? Do they want to go to a nursing home or do they want to live at home at all costs? It may not happen but you need to know their wishes. They may even want to put it in writing, in case both of you get ill.
adapted by Joe Landry • Dec. 9–31 www.trinityrep.com • (401) 351-4242 201 WASHINGTON ST. • PROVIDENCE • RI • SEASON SPONSORED by
Caregiver’s checklist By Bristol Elder Services
o Seek out other caregivers for support and guidance. o Ask for assistance and accept assistance when offered. Suggest specific things people can do to help out. o Remember to assist your loved one in remaining independent with the tasks s/he can do. o You don’t have to do everything for your loved one. Let others help. o Acknowledge your hardships: caregiving is not easy. Allow yourself room to make mistakes and learn new techniques. o Watch for signs of stress or depression (in yourself). Seek assistance from a support group, counselor, or your physician. It is important to stay healthy. o Contact local agencies that offer assistance and support to you and your loved one. o Acknowledge changes and losses in your life and allow time to adjust. Take time to make new plans and dreams.
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Prime Living
When elderly parents need your help
Eliz abeth Morse Read
It is a fact of life, for those of us reaching retirement age, that our children have moved out and are starting families of their own— and that our elderly parents (if we’re still lucky enough to have them around) may now need our help and increasing attention.
Some, like my father and his wife, are healthy, independent and socially active in their late 80’s. Others are still mentally sharp and living on their own, but physically, they’re winding down like an old clock and need careful monitoring. And then there are elderly parents who suffer from the after-effects of injuries (like falls), illnesses (like strokes, cancer or diabetes), or debilitating degenerative ailments like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s
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disease who require round-theclock professional care. Let’s say you’re on a business trip in Omaha when your Mom falls down the stairs in Florida and breaks her hip. Or maybe you live only one town away when you get the call that you’re father’s been found wandering down Rt. 6 in his pajamas at 4 a.m. We had Dr. Spock and Terry Brazelton to guide us on “how to raise children,” but where do we go and what do we do when it’s
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suddenly time to help “raise” our elderly parents? Many of us grew up with Nana or Meme living with us in a multi-generational home, with aunts and uncles downstairs or around the corner. But the “great generation” of today’s elderly parents oftentimes prefer not to move in with their adult children, seeking to maintain their autonomy and activities for as long as possible. They fear losing their hardearned independence, they’re frustrated by their declining health and abilities, they’re saddened by the loss of old friends and their familiar social network. Above all, they’re fiercely proud and dread being thought of as “a burden” or possibly resented for their perceived neediness and “uselessness.”
So what should you do? Where do you, the adult child,
go for advice and support? How can you best help your elderly parent without hurting yourself, your marriage/family, your finances, your job or your sanity? Well, fear not. You’re not alone—there are many federal, state and local agencies/organizations/institutions, support services and professional resources for both your parent and you, their adult child caregiver.
Think first, then act If your parent is reasonably healthy and independent enough to remain in his/ her own home, or move to a retirement community or assisted-living facility, respect those wishes and offer what assistance, support and advice you can [see sidebar] —don’t try to convince them that it will be all sweetness and light if
they move in with you instead. (You’ll both regret it.) But first, start by taking an inventory of your and your parent’s situations. Do you even have room enough in your house to give you all some privacy with a minimum of disruption? Do you work fulltime and need others to come in while you’re gone Monday through Friday to help care for your parent? Are your scattered siblings willing and able to help out in any way, whether financially or on weekends or by inviting the parent for weeks at a time during the year to give you some respite? Are your spouse and stillat-home children willing to shoulder some of the additional daily chores and give you some time to relax in the bubble-bath or take a nap, or drive the grandparent to a social activity? Are you all willing and able to include the grandparent in daily life activities like shopping, soccer practice, backyard BBQs with your friends, and just goofing off and playing video games? Welcoming an elderly parent into your home is a bit like bringing home a new baby— there will be sleepless nights, mad dashes to the doctor’s office, disrupted routines, and a change in daily priorities, resources and your undivided attention.
A nticipate the future And what is the current and future picture of your parent’s situation? Can they manage on their own with some additional help and encouragement every day, or do they have physical/cognitive problems that necessitate 24/7 attention? You may be willing to manage daily medications and insulin injections, but when it comes to the advanced skills required by dialysis, catheterization, and the like, or hefting a disoriented or disabled parent in and out of bed, the bathtub and the car
(and you’re 5’2” and 110 lbs. soaking wet), you need to step back and make a better choice for their care—a nursing home, an assisted-living facility, or around-the-clock care in their own home, not your spare bedroom. And understanding your parent’s current financial and legal situation is critical in helping them make the right choice. Do they have an extended health insurance policy that will supplement Medicare? Are they eligible for veteran’s benefits? Are they willing and able to cash in some of their assets (house, car, retirement funds) to cover their expenses? Do they have a will, a health care proxy or documents for durable power of attorney, should you have to manage their finances, health care and day-to-day expenses? What sources of ready income can they access (Social Security, pensions, annuities, stocks and other investments)? Many a family feud has resulted from issues like this, so make sure everyone is included in the discussion and decisions on how best your elderly parent can live the rest of his/her life to the fullest…
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 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
For more info call 508-993-6467
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Your Goal is Our Goal “Better Hearing”
Your Neighborhood Hearing Instrument Specialist
Safety First! Whether living on their own, in your home, or in a senior facility of any kind, your parent needs to live in a fall-proof environment. Bathrooms are especially hazardous and may need remodeling or modification to minimize risks. Stabilizing grab-bars both inside and outside the tub/shower are a must. If finances allow, install a special walk-in tub/ shower with a seat. Throw rugs and slippery tile floors need to be covered with non-slip/trip carpeting. Booster-seats with hand-rails on toilets help tremendously. Get rid of oily toiletries
Combine your auto and home insurance for maximum discount
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Continued from previous page (lotions, bath oils) that could make the bathroom slippery— and hang a “soap-on-a-rope” from the showerhead so your parent doesn’t have to bend over after dropping a bar of soap. Middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom are especially dangerous for the elderly. Install handrails in the hallway; ban wet-towels-on-the-bathroom-floor and book-bags or sleeping pets from the hallways; and install a sturdy gate at the top of any stairs. Make sure night-lights illuminate the way. Provide a glass of water, a sturdy flashlight and a largenumber digital clock on the bedside table. A cell-phone, intercom, LifeAlert system or even a whistle can help elders who awaken in the middle of the night in pain, or frightened by a noise outside, or in need of help getting to the bathroom.
If your parent
lives alone Those who live alone should carry the cell-phone or LifeAlert 24/7, even just going outside to get the mail—they can just as easily fall in the front yard as in the bathroom, especially in winter when stairs and sidewalks are icy or snowcovered. Make arrangements to provide prompt clearing of wet leaves, ice and snow from their porches, walkways and driveways. And be a proactive advocate in helping your parent follow doctor’s orders about diet and medications—create a chart/ schedule (and post it on the ‘fridge) of what pills needs to be taken and when (and make sure it’s followed). Too many older people either forget to take their pills or skip doses to save money, which can have life-threatening results. If the pills are bitter or hard to swallow, remember how you coaxed your children—crush
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the pills and mix them with applesauce (or find a liquid version). You can even buy pill-cases with timers that alert your parent when it’s time to take certain medications. Ask you parent’s case manager, doctor and pharmacist for guidance.
Here’s where to start… Every town and city has a Council on Aging, your first stop in helping your elderly parent live as safely and independently as possible. Many towns now offer daily wellness check-in calls for seniors, in case you’re not available. Contact, too, your parent’s church/synagogue about services and activities offered for senior citizens—everything from kosher meals delivered to the home to bus trips to social activities to transportation for doctor’s visits and shopping. But the critical clearinghouse for information, services, referrals and advice will come from your designated Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and Aging Services Access Point (ASAP). Funded by the federal, state and local governments, these organizations are a godsend for your elderly parent—and you the adult child caregiver. On the South Coast, contact Bristol Elder Services at www. bristolelder.org (508-675-2101 or toll-free 1-800-427-2101) or Coastline Elderly Service at www.coastlineelderly.org (or call 508-999-6400). In Rhode Island, contact the Division of Elderly Affairs at www.dea.ri.gov or call 401462-311 (their senior services hotline can be reached at 401462-4000). Multi-lingual case managers will evaluate your parent’s situation and needs, develop a service plan, provide you with information about in-home care options, elder law advice services, financial/estate plan-
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ning advice, alternative living / healthcare options in the area, social activities and support services for you both—for free. You (and your parent) are not alone.
Helping your parent
stay healthy Six million senior citizens suffer from clinical depression, oftentimes mistaken as dementia, but more often it’s triggered by underlying illnesses, reactions to medications, as well as feelings of loss, frustration and abrupt changes in their living circumstances. But feeling chronically sad, lonely, aimless and confused is not a “normal” part of aging, any more than it is a part of adolescence or middle age. As the adult child, do what you can to help your aging parent stay physically, socially and mentally active. Your mother may cringe at the suggestion of playing bingo, but maybe she’d enjoying volunteering for “reading hour” at the library, mentoring students after school, or joining a quilting club. Even opportunities for physical activity can be social events—participating in tai chi classes at the park, a dance class at the senior center, a nature walk at the local park, swim-ercise at the rec. center or Y. Physical activity helps improve balance and stamina, alleviates aches and pains, stimulates the appetite, and helps banish “the blahs.” Equally important is encouraging your elderly parent to stay mentally stimulated. Reading, crossword/jigsaw puzzles and sudoku get boring real fast—introduce them to the Internet! Many senior centers and libraries offer free skills workshops for seniors on computer uses. They can chat, shop, play “brain games” (like mahjongg), keep in touch with family and friends, write a cookbook or their memoirs
[see sidebar]—or even start a blog!—all from the comfort of home. If they have a digital camera, they can download and send photos—or if they have Skype (free long-distance service online), they can speak with and see the grandkids in real time. You and your elderly parent are not alone.
For more
information… Find the AAA in your area: www.agingcare.com/local www.n4a.org www.lifealert.com www.caregiving.com
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Hospice and Palliative Care Federation of MA www.hospicefed.org 1-800-962-2973
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“Aging in the Know” www.healthinaging.org
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Mass. Long Term Care www.masslongtermcare.org
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US Living Will Registry www.uslivingwillregistry.com
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Seniorlist.com Great articles, links, advice www.seniorlist.com
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“Life Alert” or ADT Companion Services: www.lifealert.com www.adtcares.com www.lifestation.com
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Find senior volunteering ideas and opportunities: www.seniorcorps.gov www.theseniorsource.org www.aarp.org/givingback
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StoryCorps, a free, non-profit program of the National Public Radio, allows seniors to record their personal history via a computer for the Library of Congress. www.storycorps.org
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Daily discounts and coupons in your area for seniors www.sciddy.com
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If your parent needs in-home medical care, contact the Visiting Nurses Association of the Southcoast Health System 1-800-698-6877 www.southcoastvna.org n
For various daily care services for your parents or for caregiver respite care: Home Instead Senior Care 508-984-7900 www.homeinstead.com
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Prime Living
Shingles are for houses,
get vaccinated! When my sister Karen got shingles last month, she became the unofficial spokesperson for Zostavax, the shingles vaccine. Starting with her husband Marty, she has begun a one-woman campaign for getting the vaccine instead of getting shingles. “It’s debilitating,” she emailed me recently. “This is the first time in three weeks I’ve been able to drive myself anywhere.” Her case of shingles came on unexpectedly while she and Marty were camping in the Pacific Northwest. At first she had a pain in her back and didn’t want to spoil their camping trip so she started taking Tylenol. When the rash started, she thought it might be a side effect from the Tylenol. But two days later, the blistery rash that started on her back had spread around her torso. While she was in the campground women’s room, another camper saw her looking at the rash and said, “Honey, that looks like shingles.” It was my sister’s good fortune that the other camper knew what shingles looked like, and her remark came at a critical moment for Karen. She was still within the 72hour window of time that would allow her to get treated with Valtrex, or valacyclovir, one drug in a family of acyclovirs that reduces the likelihood of later complications. Reduce, but not necessarily eliminate.
First, a little about shingles Karen’s case was pretty typical: a slight
sharp pain in the back that got worse. Within 24 hours, a rash starts on the spine, then spreads around to the chest, belly and abdomen. By 48 hours, the rash is painful, oozy, and in full bloom, and remains for anywhere up to five weeks. Shingles are caused by a re-emergence of the herpes zoster virus—the remnant of the varicella zoster virus or chicken pox. Herpes zoster virus lies dormant in the nerve and later travels along the nerve axon to nerve endings in the skin. Since nerve endings are everywhere, it’s possible to get shingles everywhere. Some of the more severe cases include facial and aural shingles that can cause hearing and vision loss. It’s still unknown why chicken pox goes underground, so to speak, and resides in nerve endings. Even less is known about what triggers it to come out ten or twenty years later, or who it affects most, and why. But what we do know is that the chances are greater that it will come out in people who had chicken pox when they were less than a year old, are now over 60 years old, and have impaired immune systems, according to the National Institute of Health’s U.S. Medical Library. However,
not all three circumstances need apply. Shingles can occur in anyone who’s ever had chicken pox.
The bad news The good news is that you can’t pass shingles on. The bad news is that you can pass chicken pox on to children and adults who haven’t had either chicken pox or the chicken pox vaccine. The really bad news is that even after the rash is gone, many people get postherpetic neuralgia, or a chronic nerve pain that can lasts months or even years. That’s why it’s so important to take Valtrex or one of the other acyclovirs as soon as the rash is identified. It can greatly reduce the severity of the outbreak and also reduces the risk of postherpetic neuralgia. There’s a wealth of information online on shingles. Medline Plus, a website by the National Institute of Health’s U.S. National Library of Medicine is one of the better ones (www.nih.gov/medline). Don’t let the name intimidate you, Medline Plus is not full of medical jargon or set up for medical researchers, but instead speaks in plain English and has great links. Wikipedia is another great source of information. But remember, Wikipedia is interactive and can be changed by anyone. Still, it has some detailed and referenced material on shingles worth looking at. As for me, I’ve got a doctor’s appointment to get vaccinated. Joyce Rowley is a freelance writer living on the South Coast. To contact Ms. Rowley, email her at prov52jr@yahoo.com.
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Book Picks by Baker by M agoo Gelehrter
Courtesy of Baker Books – www.bakerbooks.net
Remember reveling in Halloween’s bounty when you got home and dumped the bag of trick-or-treat candy on the kitchen table? You never knew what to expect in the scrumptious pile, but knew it was all wonderful. So this month we give you a cornucopia of varied delights, including all the paintings in the Louvre for less than 3 cents each, a photographic homage to our Massachusetts Coast Guard, a memoir of Africa, and a compelling history of Portugal. Dig in!
LEONARD MALTIN’S 2012 MOVIE GUIDE by Leonard Maltin Penguin $9.99 paperback The 2012 edition of this bestselling movie guide includes more capsule movie reviews, DVD listings, mail-order and online sources for buying and renting, leading performer and director indexes, and Maltin’s all new personal recommendations for movie lovers. Leonard Maltin is one of the country’s most respected film historians an
COAST GUARD IN MASSACHUSETTS: IMAGES OF AMERICA Donald J. Cann & John J. Galluzzo Arcadia Publishing $21.99 The Coast Guard’s deepest roots run through Massachusetts, the ancestral home to three of the five predecessor agencies that make up the service today. The Coast Guard formed in 1915 and since that time has served the citizens of the Bay State at lifeboat stations, air stations, lighthouses, LORAN stations, and radio stations, as well as on lightships and cutters of all sizes. They have protected the Massachusetts coastline during numerous wars, performing some of the most dramatic rescues in American history, from the Pendleton to the Argo Merchant to the Etrusco and more. The story of the Coast Guard in Massachusetts is one of heroism, honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Dozens of photographs.
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COCKTAIL HOUR UNDER THE TREE OF FORGETFULNESS by Alexandra Fuller Penguin $25.95 hardcover In this sequel to Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight, Alexandra Fuller returns to Africa and the story of her unforgettable family. In Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness Fuller braids a multilayered narrative around the perfectly lit, Happy Valleyera Africa of her mother’s childhood; the boiled cabbage grimness of her father’s English childhood; and the darker, civil war- torn Africa of her own childhood. At its heart, this is the story of Fuller’s mother, Nicola. Born on the Scottish Isle of Skye and raised in Kenya, Nicola holds dear the kinds of values most likely to get you hurt or killed in Africa: loyalty to blood, passion for land, and a holy belief in the restorative power of all animals. Fuller interviewed her mother at length and has captured her inimitable voice with remarkable precision. Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness is as funny, terrifying, exotic, and unselfconscious as Nicola herself.
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THE PORTUGUESE: A HISTORY by Barry Hatton Interlink Books $15 paperback Combining history and anecdote, Barry Hatton paints an intimate portrait of a fascinating country and its people. Portugal is an established member of the European Union, one of the founders of the euro currency and a founding member of NATO. Yet it is an inconspicuous and largely overlooked country on the continent’s southwest rim. Hatton blends historical analysis with entertaining personal anecdotes. He describes the idiosyncrasies that make the Portuguese unique and surveys the eventful path that brought them to where they are today. In the fifteenth-and sixteenth-century Age of Discovery the Portuguese led Europe out of the Mediterranean into the
Atlantic and they brought Asia and Europe together. Evidence of their four-continent empire can still be felt, not least in the Portuguese language which is spoken by more than 220 million people from Brazil, across parts of Africa to Asia. Analyzing present-day society and culture, The Portuguese also considers the nation’s often tumultuous past, including the 1755 Lisbon earthquake (one of Europe’s greatest natural disasters), and Europe’s longest dictatorship (under twentiethcentury ruler António Salazar). Portugal’s quirky relationship with Spain, and with its oldest ally, England, is also scrutinized. Portugal, which claims Europe’s oldest fixed borders, measures just 561 by 218 kilometers. Within that space, however, it offers a patchwork of widely differing and beautiful landscapes. With an easygoing and seductive lifestyle expressed most fully in their love of food, the Portuguese also have an anarchical streak evident in many facets of contemporary life.
E arth From A bove Tenth A nniversary Edition By Yann Arthus-Bertrand Little Brown $60 hardcover Since its original publication in 1999, Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s Earth From Above has been a touchstone for the environmental movement throughout the world, selling more than 3 million copies in all languages. The result of a five-year journey across five continents and 60 countries, this spectacular portrait of our planet is also an iconic reminder of its fragility. In this anniversary edition, ArthusBertrand and one dozen experts on current environmental issues look back upon the past decade’s progress. With more than 100 striking new images and nine new essays, including frank discussions of climate change and the growing energy crisis throughout the world, Arthus-Bertrand poignantly juxtaposes Earth’s raw beauty with the evidence of humanity’s negative impact upon our home.
A More Perfect Heaven By Davao Sobel Bloomsbury $25 hardcover
The Louvre: A ll the Paintings By Erich Lessing Black Dog Publishing $75 hardcover
By 1514, the reclusive cleric Nicolaus Copernicus had written and hand-copied an initial outline of his heliocentric theoryin which he defied common sense and received wisdom to place the sun, not the earth, at the center of our universe, and set the earth spinning among the other planets. Over the next two decades, Copernicus expanded his theory through hundreds of observations, while compiling in secret a book-length manuscript that tantalized mathematicians and scientists throughout Europe. For fear of ridicule, he refused to publish. In 1539, a young German mathematician, Georg Joachim Rheticus, drawn by rumors of a revolution to rival the religious upheaval of Martin Luther’s Reformation, traveled to Poland to seek out Copernicus. Two years later, the Protestant youth took leave of his aging Catholic mentor and arranged to have Copernicus’s manuscript published, in 1543, as De revolutionibus orbium coelestium (On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres)—the book that forever changed humankind’s place in the universe. In her elegant, compelling style, Dava Sobel chronicles, as nobody has, the conflicting personalities and extraordinary discoveries that shaped the Copernican Revolution. At the heart of the book is her play And the Sun Stood Still, imagining Rheticus’s struggle to convince Copernicus to let his manuscript see the light of day. As she achieved with her bestsellers Longitude and Galileo’s Daughter, Sobel expands the bounds of narration, giving us an unforgettable portrait of scientific achievement, and of the ever-present tensions between science and faith.
An historic publishing event! Endorsed by the Louvre and for the first time ever, every painting from the world’s most popular museum is available in one stunning book. All 3,022 paintings on display in the permanent painting collection of the Louvre are presented in full color in this striking, slipcased book. It also comes with an enclosed, supportive DVD-ROM. The Louvre is the world’s most visited art museum, with 8.5 million visitors annually, and houses the most celebrated and important paintings of all time. For the first time ever, The Louvre: All the Paintings collects all 3,022 paintings currently on display in the permanent collection in one beautifully curated volume.Organized and divided into the four main painting collections of the museum—the Italian School, the Northern School, the Spanish School, and the French School—the paintings are then presented chronologically by the artist’s date of birth.Four hundred of the most iconic and significant paintings are illuminated with 300-word discussions by art historians Anja Grebe and Vincent Pomarède on the key attributes of the work, what to look for when viewing the painting, the artist’s inspirations and techniques, biographical information on the artist, the artist’s impact on the history of art, and more. All 3,022 paintings are fully annotated with the name of the painting and artist, the date of the work, the birth and death dates of the artist, the medium that was used, the size of the painting, the Louvre catalog number, and the room in the Louvre in which the painting is found. The DVD-ROM can easily be browsed by artist, date, school, art historical genre, or location in the Louvre. This last feature allows readers to tour the Louvre and its contents room by room, as if they were actually walking through the building.
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A dvertisers
H appenings
Albanese Monuments............................................ 6 Avalon....................................................................... 9 Beacon Adult Foster Care Inc................................ 1 Better Community Living...................................25
Things to do
Black Bass Grille....................................................21 Bless You Handkerchiefs....................................... 7 Bristol Elder Services . ........................................... 7 Buttonwood Park Zoo.........................................19
November 6 – The Wizard of Oz Zeiterion Theatre
Center for Vascular Diseases................................. 4 Clifton Rehabilitative Nursing Center.........cover Coastal Orthopaedics..........................................40 Diocesan Health Facilities.................................... 8 Dr. Jon Paul Van Regenmorter......................cover Ecin Bedding & Futon Factory............................25 EldersFirst............................................................... 11 Eye Health Vision Centers..............................cover Fairhaven Visitors Center.................................... 11 Fall River Historical Society................................15 Flint Armament Inc................................................ 8 GM Refrigeration.............................................cover Grandparents Raising Grandchildren...............27 Hawthorn Medical Associates.......................cover Hear Better Now...................................................35 J&J Diamond Jewelers..........................................13 LaPointe Insurance Agency ...............................15 Lighthouse Promotions.......................................23 Mike’s Auto Body.................................................... 8 New Bedford Rehabilitation Hospital................ 4 North Farm............................................................27 One Man’s Junk Removal & Cleaning................ 6 Partners Village Store...........................................21 Patenaude Jewelers...............................................19 Phoenix Property Management Inc..................25 Plante Jewelers....................................................... 31 Premier Home Healthcare of MA........................ 4 RDA Insurance......................................................35 Resendes Electric...................................................23 Sagres Restaurant..................................................21 Saint Anne’s Hospital............................................. 3 Southcoast Health System.............................cover Southcoast Health System.................................... 8 Southcoast Health System..................................27 Southeastern Mass Health & Rehab. Center...... 9 St. Anne’s Credit Union......................................... 0 Stafford & Company Insurance..........................26 The Bath Cove..................................................cover
November 4-6, 11-12 – Light up the Sky: A Comedy in Three Acts. Marion Art Center, 80 Pleasant Street, Marion. 508-7481266. www.marionartcenter.org November 6 – The Wizard of Oz. There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful Wizard of Oz, twists its way to New Bedford. Take the Yellow Brick Road with Dorothy, Toto, the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow to a spectacular celebration of the legendary1939 MGM film starring Judy Garland. The Wizard of Oz will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling art deco Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys. Come travel Over the Rainbow and experience this national treasure on stage. 3pm. Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 3pm. 508994-2900. www.zeiterion.org
The Cedars Assisted Living................................... 7 Trinity Repertory Company............................... 31 YMCA South Coast...............................................39 Zeiterion Theatre..................................................13
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November 10-20 – How I Learned to Drive is a wildly funny, surprising and devastating tale of survival as seen through
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the lens of a troubled relationship between a young girl and an older man. It is the story of a woman who learns the rules of the road and life from behind the wheel. Your Theatre, Inc. 136 Rivet Street, New Bedford. 508-993-0772. www.yourtheatre.org November 11 – Bela Fleck & The Flecktones. 8pm. It’s a rare and very special treat when the original line up of The Flecktones comes together on stage for the first time in 20 years! In support of their new album Rocket Science Bela Fleck has reconvened the Grammy® Award winning initial line up of his incredible combo—Howard Levy, brothers Victor and Roy Futureman Wooten, and, of course, Bela himself. Together again, the quartet creates some of the most forward thinking music of their career. Everything comes into play—from Jazz to bluegrass and electric blues to African Music and Eastern European folk dances—the result is an impossible-to-pigeonhole sound all their own. Levy says “There’s a special thing that happens when the four of us get together and play. We all have the same attitude of trying to do things that we haven’t done before and
Visit CoastalMags.com for extended listings and to sign-up for our free weekly events email
coincidentally, no one else has either.” It’s a one-time only tour - don’t miss it! Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 3pm. 508-994-2900. www. zeiterion.org November 18-December 30 – A Christmas Carol. Celebrate the magic and wonder of the holiday season with this beloved New England holiday tradition! Appealing to young and old alike, this timeless tale of the power of forgiveness is a welcome reminder of the magic the holidays bring. Resident acting company favorite Brian McEleney stars in the role of Scrooge. Trinity Rep, 201 Washington Street, Providence. 401-351-4242. www.trinityrep.com November 27 – New Bedford Symphony Orchestra. Classical Music III: Voice and Spirit. St. Anthony’s Church, 1359 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford. 3pm. 508-999-6276. www.nbsymphony.org December 9-31 – It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Trinity Rep continues its new holiday tradition, one to complement our annual holiday gem, A Christmas Carol. Five actors create more than fifty memorable characters to bring to life Frank Capra’s beloved film. This unique stage adaptation
is performed as a radio play, broadcast on Christmas Eve, 1949. Everyman George Bailey gets the chance to see what the world would be like if he’d never been born. Trinity Rep, 201 Washington Street, Providence. 401-351-4242. www.trinityrep.com December 12 – Garrison Keillor, beloved humorist, yarn spinner and creator of National Public Radio’s A Prairie Home Companion has been making audiences laugh, tap their feet and occasionally grab a hankie with his tales of life at Lake Wobegon “Where all the women are strong, all the men are good-looking, and all the children are above average.” One performance only! 8-10pm. Zeiterion, 684 Purchase St., New Bedford. 508-997-5664 or www.zeiterion.org December 17 –Hear the Cheer. Family Holiday Pops with the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra. Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 3:30pm, 7pm. 508-994-2900. www. zeiterion.org March 29 – Spamalot. Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, 684 Purchase Street, New Bedford. 8pm. 508-994-2900. www. zeiterion.org
March 29 – Spamalot Zeiterion Theatre
Special Events December FLICK N’ FLOAT Wareham | 12/2 MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE Wareham | 12/10 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Fall River | 12/17 Wareham | 12/10 CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Mattapoisett | 12/15 KID’S WINTER BASH Dartmouth | 12/16
January FLICK N’ FLOAT Wareham | 1/13 MAD SCIENTIST FAMILY SHOW Dartmouth | 1/13
February FLICK N’ FLOAT Wareham | 2/3 MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE Wareham | 2/11 TEDDY BEAR TEA DARTMOUTH | 2/11 SAP TO SYRUP BREAKFAST Dartmouth | 2/18 SWEET SCIENCE OF MAPLE SUGARING Dartmouth | 2/18
Contact the branch for further information and event times. DARTMOUTH FALL RIVER MATTAPOISETT NEW BEDFORD WAREHAM
508.993.3361 508.675.7841 508.758.4203 508.997.0734 508.295.9622
YMCA SOUTHCOAST ymcasouthcoast.org S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
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Renowned Orthopedic Doctors offer appointments available this week, maybe even today. 9 Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons are devoted to uncompromising treatment in 5 convenient locations. FALL RIVER, MA – Nagging pain? Arthritis? Sports injury? In some medical practices you will wait up to 4 weeks to see a specialist and get a diagnosis of your ailment. Wait no more! Coastal Orthopaedics, a leading orthopedic care center located at 235 Hanover Street in Fall River, MA offers their patients guaranteed appointments within the week and often can get their patients same day or next day appointments. Coastal Orthopaedics has 9 Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons in 5 convenient locations in southeast Massachusetts and northern Rhode Island. This extraordinary bandwidth and Coastal Orthopaedics commitment to patient convenience allow Coastal Orthopaedics to offer appointments and follow up appointments within tight timeframes, something no single-doctor Orthopedic care practice can equal. “Coastal Orthopaedics is very happy to offer our patients same week or same day appointments. We get our patients started on their path to wellness faster, and that is important to us and to our patients,” commented Bill Custer, Administrator at Coastal Orthopaedics, “Our commitment to patient convenience and the excellence of our orthopedic care is what separates Coastal Orthopaedics from other care providers.” That is not everything that separates Coastal Orthopaedics from other orthopedic care providers. The practice offers expertise in general, specialty and pediatric orthopedics making them an ideal choice for orthopedic care regardless of your injury or age. Whether treating bones, joints, ligaments, muscles or arthritis each Physician, Physician Assistant, Nurse Practitioner and staff member are committed to providing the best orthopedic care available anywhere. And, patients are provided piece
“Our commitment to patient convenience and the excellence of our orthopedic care is what separates Coastal Orthopaedics from other care providers.” of mind knowing their doctor is a leader in their field and up-to-date with the latest care, physical therapy and surgical technologies. Coastal Orthopaedics has five locations, in Fall River and New Bedford in Massachusetts and Warren, Bristol and Tiverton in Rhode Island. “Our five locations is just one example of our commitment to patient convenience,”
states Custer, “by shortening our patients commute to their orthopedic appointments we make it all the more convenient for them, that’s a great thing and something we are very proud of. Coastal Orthopaedics and our patients truly have the same goal, moving our patients towards wellness as quickly and conveniently as possible.” An extension of Coastal Orthopaedics commitment to patient convenience is having Physical Therapy facilities onsite. Their patients have the convenience of their orthopedic appointments and their recovery based physical therapy at the same location. Appointments at Coastal Orthopaedics can be made by calling 877-859-2663 or through a referral by your primary care physician. More information regarding Coastal Orthopaedics can be found at www.coastal-orthopaedics.com.
HAND SURGERY • SHOULDER SURGERY • SPORTS MEDICINE • JOINT REPLACEMENT
We guarantee you an appointment this week… maybe even TODAY! The Board Certified Surgeons of Coastal Orthopaedics provide state-ofthe-art, comprehensive surgical and medical care treating bones, joints, ligaments and muscles as well as arthritis. Our Doctors have the specialized knowledge and expertise to provide exceptional care.
ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY • GENERAL ORTHOPEDICS • PEDIATRIC ORTHOPEDIC CARE
The latest technology with on time personalized service. Permanent Crowns in ONE Visit! • Digital X-Rays • Root Canal Specialist ON SITE
Dr. Elina Fooks D.M.D.
Dr. J.P. Van Regenmorter, D.D.S.
1359 Main Road, Tiverton, RI
Dr. Aaron Campini, D.M.D.
401-624-9177 dutchmandental.com HAWTHORN MEDICAL ASSOCIATES
Enjoy a new you Facelift Brow/Forehead Lift Eyelid Surgery Nose Surgery Ear Reshaping Scar Revision Liposuction Implants Lip Enhancement Hair Restoration Skin Resurfacing Botox ®/Dysport® Dermal Fillers Obagi Skin Care
Agata K . Brys , MD Facial Plastic & Hair Restoration Surgeon Dr. Brys has unique expertise and understanding in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery. She provides elite care using the most advanced surgical procedures. Dr. Brys trained exclusively in Facial Plastic Surgery in a fellowship approved by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Board certified in Head and Neck Surgery by the American Board of Otolaryngology, she is committed to excellence, safety and natural looking results. Get ready for a new you! Call 508-996-3991 to schedule an appointment.
Agata K. Brys, MD
535 Faunce Corner Road | Dartmouth
T O A DV E R T I SE I N S OU T H C OA S T PR I M E T I M E S C A L L 50 8 - 677-30 0 0
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Clifton
OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION CLINIC 500 WILBUR AVENUE, SOMERSET, MASSACHUSETTS
PHYSICAL • OCCUPATIONAL • SPEECH THERAPY FOR NEARLY ALL AGES AND ALL OF YOUR NEEDS… Sports Injuries....…Post-Surgical Rehabilitation.......Sprains and Strains.......Tendonitis & Bursitis.......Knee, Hip & Joint Replacements.......Work & Motor Vehicle Injuries.......Back, Neck &Joint Pain.......Hand & Wrist Injuries....…Stroke Rehab.......and much more. Our expanded 4,000 square foot outpatient clinic features beautiful open gym space, lots of natural lighting, outdoor practice fields, private treatment rooms, and a custom designed heated aquatic therapy pool. The pool contains a built-in underwater treadmill, variable water depths, deep tissue massage jets and resistance current for swimming and exercise. • A doctors order is required • Immediate appointments available • Medicare and most major insurances accepted 508-675-0329 THE CLIFTON HEALTHCARE CAMPUS ALSO OFFERS....... Clifton Rehabilitative Nursing Center.......508-675-7589 Clifton Assisted Living Community.......508-324-0200
Proud to be celebrating over 50 years of dedication to excellence.