South Coast Prime Times March/April 2018

S o u t h

C o a s t

Prime timeS M a r c h /A pr i l 2 018 • Volum e 14 • Num ber 2

Ticker tips Phone fixes Growing season

Taking root

Cardiology Division

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CONTENTS In every issue

4 From the publisher 6 South Coast newsmakers

by Elizabeth Morse Read

28 In brief

by Elizabeth Morse Read

Prime living

8 Healthy hearts

by Elizabeth Morse Read

14 Memory cafés expanding

by Joyce Rowley

Prime season

22

20 Precious things

by Sherri Mahoney-Battles

22 Dig into gardening

by Michael J. Vieira

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catholicmemorialhome.org Catholic Memorial Home Fall River, MA

Good times

12 Making patients primary

by Greg Jones

18 Fixin’ for a phone

by Dan Logan

32 Down with the sickness

by Paul Kandarian

S o u t h

C o a s t

Prime timeS M a r c h /A pr i l 2 018 • Volum e 14 • Num ber 2

508.999.4561

ourladyshavenhome.org Our Lady’s Haven Fairhaven, MA

2

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marianmanorhome.org Marian Manor Home Taunton, MA

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On the cover: The only thing better than seeing the world come alive in spring is knowing that you had a hand in it. Whether you’re doing it food, pride, or pleasure, make this the year that you get into gardening. Pick up some tips on page 22.

Ticker tips Phone fixes Growing season

Taking root

Most Efficient

2016

www.energystar.gov

FROM THE PUBLISHER March/April 2018 n Vol. 14 n No. 2 Published by

Coastal Communications Corp.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Ljiljana Vasiljevic

The time has come to put our bulkiest jackets back in the closet. Unless you’re heading inland or to the mountains, you are just now waking from a months-long hibernation, checking the ground every day for the first few hints of green. Take heart! Spring is right around the corner.

Editor

Sebastian Clarkin Online editor

Paul Letendre Contributors

Greg Jones, Paul Kandarian, Dan Logan, Sherri Mahoney-Battles, Elizabeth Morse Read, Joyce Rowley, and Michael J. Vieira South Coast Prime Times is published bi-monthly.

Copyright ©2018 Coastal Communications Corp.

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

Next issue April 18, 2018

Circulation

Speaking of taking heart, now is a good time to check in on your ticker. After all, the cold days of winter can keep us from getting the right food or cardiovascular exercise our bodies need to stay healthy.

Tune yourself up for the warmer weather and turn to Elizabeth Morse Read’s article on page 8.

Our hearts aren’t the only organ we need to keep an eye on, however. None of us are as sharp as we once were, but the specter of Alzheimer’s disease looms – if you have not experienced it directly, then you certainly know someone who has. But over the past few years, an important resource for people living with Alzheimer’s has grown around the region, and has most recently taken root in Acushnet. To learn more, turn to Joyce Rowley’s article on page 14.

If you have a short temper, perhaps the worst thing you can do to yourself is try to wrap your head around technology. You’d sooner throw a smartphone out the window than spend hours downloading apps for every facet of life. And if you drop the phone more than eight inches? Well, hopefully you got the insurance. But dealing with that supercomputer in your pocket doesn’t need to be so stressful. Just follow Dan Logan’s advice on page 18.

Coming out of winter can feel like opening your eyes for the first time. The colors seems brighter and everything seems to hold more promise. So take this time to say goodbye to winter and say hello to a new you.

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5

South Coast

newsmakers

by E lizabeth M orse R ead

St. Anne’s Hospital in Fall River, part of the Steward Health Care system, has been recognized as one of the country’s forty-four “Top General Hospitals of 2017” by The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital watchdog organization, and was one of only six general hospitals in New England to receive this designation.

Plymouth resident Robin Ireland, girls’ soccer coach at Apponequet Regional High School and Freetown-Lakeville district teacher, has been honored with a Carnegie medal for his heroism when he saved a woman who was being stabbed during an attempted rape in Plymouth in 2016.

The Elite Airways round-trip flights from New Bedford Regional Airport to Vero Beach, Florida during the holiday season were so successful that additional service to Vero Beach is now being scheduled for spring and summer, as well as to other popular travel destinations. Stay tuned!

Old Rochester Regional High School in Mattapoisett won the Massachusetts state finals in Samsung’s “Solve for Tomorrow” technology contest, winning the school a $25,000 prize and the chance to compete in the national competition in Washington, DC. The ORR team proposed a customized drone to monitor soil moisture for local cranberry growers for more effective, targeted watering.

Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth is one of ten Massachusetts hospitals to be designated a “Top Hospital of 2017” by The Leapfrog Group. Nationwide, only 109 hospitals received Top Hospital designation.

New Bedford got rave reviews as a travel destination in The Manual, a lifestyle website for men. Read all about it at themanual.com.

Singer Teddy Matthews of Wareham will be competing on ABC’s “American Idol,” which premieres on March 11.

Judges will be Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.

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Southcoast Health’s St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford is now the only hospital on the South Coast and Cape Cod to offer Bronchial Thermoplasty, a new nondrug intervention for adults with severe asthma, which dramatically improves quality-of-life and reduces asthma attacks.

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Being good neighbors

The goal of the environmental advocacy group Hands Across the River Coalition (HARC) is to rid the Acushnet River and greater Buzzards Bay environment of deadly industrial contaminants like PCBs, dioxin, and heavy metals, which pose serious risk to public health and the South Coast’s ecology. HARC meets on the last Wednesday of every month, and the public is invited to attend.

And the 2017 People of the Year Are… Every year, the Standard-Times selects outstanding citizens from around the South Coast: Dr. Matthew Bivens, director of emergency medical services at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, has been chosen as the Standard-Times’ 2017 South Coast Man of the Year. Michelle Loranger, executive director of the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County MA, is the South Coast Woman of the Year.

Where old and new friends have met since 1933

Sarah-Yvonne Doyle, a junior at Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech HS, has been chosen the Standard-Times’ 2017 South Coast Youth of the Year for her work raising funds for veterans and troops overseas.

The Standard-Times’ 2017 New Bedford Couple of the Year are Victor and Christine Fernandes of Acushnet, who launched the Team Noah Foundation, which resulted in the creation of Noah’s Place Playground on Popes Island, the largest handicap-accessible playground in New England.

Al Benac and Blanche Pepin have been named the Fairhaven Man and Woman of the Year.

The Freetown Man and Woman of the Year are Robert Adams and Celeste Cabral.

Ronald Cormier and Pauline Teixeira are the Acushnet Man and Woman of the Year.

The Rochester Man and Woman of the Year are Kevin Thompson and Meredith Ciaburri-Rousseau.

Fred Parmenter and Ruth Gross have been chosen as the Lakeville Man and Woman of the Year.

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The Standard-Times’ 2017 New Bedford Men of the Year are Bruce Oliveira and Fred Toomey of the New Bedford Port Society, who spearheaded the much-needed restoration of the historic Seamen’s Bethel and Mariner’s Home.

Deb Bush and Robert Zora have been chosen as the Marion Woman and Man of the Year.

The “Wareham Fighting Against Addiction” Drop-In Center at the Church of the Good Shepherd has been chosen as the Wareham People of the Year.

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The Dartmouth Man and Woman of the Year are Richard and Anne Sadow.

Mary O’Keefe and the late Peter B. Hodges are the Mattapoisett Woman and Man of the Year.

Cecilia Felix of Holy Family-Holy Name School in New Bedford has been chosen as the 2017 Southcoast Teacher of the Year.

For monthly meeting locations and more info about HARC, call 508-951-1184 or email harcgnb@gmail.com.

The Salvation Army is always willing to accept your bagged/boxed donations – clothing, books, furniture, and housewares. To schedule a free pickup, go to satruck.org/pickup.

My Brother’s Keeper of Dartmouth and Easton is looking for volunteers and gently-used residential furniture for families

in need. Free pickup. Call 774-305-4577 or visit mybrotherskeeper.org.

Pet Food Aid, a non-profit organization, collects pet food donations and distributes them to food banks throughout Bristol County. Volunteers and donations gratefully accepted. For more info, visit petfoodaid.org or call 774-204-5227.

Get a free subscription to The South Coast Insider online edition and get your favorite monthly publication delivered to your inbox.

Read on your mobile phone, tablet, laptop or desktop anytime, anywhere.

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7

PRIME LIVING

Healthy hearts Eliz abeth Morse Read

One in every three deaths in America is caused by cardiovascular disease (CVD) – heart disease, strokes and high blood pressure.

CVD is not only the leading cause of death, but is also the leading cause of disability, costing over $300 billion in health care costs, medications, and lost productivity every year.

The incidence of CVD could be greatly diminished by tackling risk factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and smoking; diseases like high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, and diabetes; and social factors like chronic poverty, stress, and inadequate healthcare.

Here on the South Coast, the incidence of heart disease, high blood pressure, strokes, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes are consistently higher than state averages, and we need to turn those numbers around. We should all practice more preventive cardiac care and take personal responsibility for our own health.

We are fortunate to have excellent hospitals, medical specialists, and cardiac-care programs on the South Coast, but these are end-of-the-line resources, after we’ve suffered a medical crisis. And getting heart-healthy needs to be a community priority, engaging stakeholders from all walks of life – families, health professionals, educators, business-owners, public officials, faith leaders, and advocacy organizations – so that every person’s lifelong heart-health is the focus every day, no matter where they work, study, play, or live.

Heart healthcare on the South Coast The major healthcare providers on the South Coast are exceptionally qualified to deal with the unique heart-health

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challenges of the region, and work closely with local resources to encourage better preventative and emergency cardiac care.

For example, symptoms of heart disease in women are radically different than in men, so Women & Infants Hospital in Providence offers a specialized Women’s Heart Health program, in affiliation with Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Likewise, Southcoast Health, which includes St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, and Tobey Hospital in Wareham, has been recognized by Healthgrades as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Cardiac Care, Cardiac Surgery, and Pulmonary Care for the seventh year in a row. The Southcoast Cardiovascular Service program, one of the most comprehensive in the state, ranges from openheart surgery, catheterization and angioplasty, a valve clinic, a structural heart program, a state-of-the-art electrophysiology lab, and one of the largest cardiac rehabilitation programs in New England.

In addition, Southcoast Health received the prestigious “Top Performer” designation by The Joint Commission in 2013, the only hospital group in southeastern Massachusetts to be so recognized.

St. Anne’s Hospital in Fall River, part of the Steward Health Care System, has also been recognized for its clinical excellence in cardiac and respiratory care by Health-

'But Fresh Local Produce Can Be So E xpensive!'

Not anymore. The Massachusetts Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) and Coastal Foodshed work together to make local farmers markets compatible with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (aka SNAP/EBT or “food stamps”). HIP will automatically credit the exact purchase amount of fruits and vegetables bought at participating farmers markets, farm stands, mobile markets, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm-share programs. This doubles the purchasing power of lower-income shoppers looking for fresh, healthful foods – and it’s been a financial boon for participating farmers markets, too.

Many farmers markets also accept WIC and senior coupons. To learn more, go to mass.gov/agr/massgrown and coastalfoodshed.org. To find a winter farmers market near you, visit semaponline.org, farmfresh.org, or localharvest.org.

Annual Health Expo Thursday, June 21st 2018 from 11am-3pm Hosted by

Vibra Hospital of Southeastern Massachusetts invites you to participate in their Annual Health Expo scheduled for Thursday, June 21st 2018 from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The event will be held outdoors on our grounds (tables will be set up under tents). In previous years, we featured over 100 vendors from across southcoast’s areas of service.

This event is FREE to register and open to the public.

Southcoast Health Mobile Health Van will be on site providing free health screens. grades, and received its third consecutive designation as a Top Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital watchdog organization. And Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth is another one of the ten Massachusetts hospitals to be designated a Top Hospital by The Leapfrog Group.

Also in Fall River, the Center for Vascular Diseases offers treatments and minimally-invasive outpatient procedures for vein disorders, including varicose veins, pelvic congestion syndrome, and deep vein thrombosis.

Rhode Island Hospital was named one of the nation’s top fifty cardiovascular

Continued on next page

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Continued from previous page

'Diabesity' and heart health CVD is the leading cause of death in diabetics. People who are overweight, pre-diabetic, or suffering from type 2 diabetes are four times more likely to have a heart attack or stroke than the general population.

That’s why we’re fortunate to have the Diabetes Prevention Programs offered by YMCA Southcoast. These community-based healthy lifestyle modification programs can help those at risk reduce their body weight, increase their physical activity, and learn to make healthier eating choices. Research shows that programs like the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program can reduce the number of new cases of diabetes by 58% overall, and

programs of 2018 by the IBM Watson Health/Truven Health Analytics study, one of only three hospitals in New England to receive that distinction. Along with Miriam and Newport Hospitals, Rhode Island Hospital offers the Lifespan Cardiovascular Institute, which provides the highest level of diagnostic, interventional, surgical, and rehabilitative cardiac care.

Heart health:

it takes a village But it’s crucial that we don’t rely on hospitals alone to treat us in the event of a cardiac event – grassroots initiatives can train us all to be life-savers. An immediate response to sudden cardiac arrest is critical for every minute lost, the chance of recovery drops by 10 percent.

The HeartSafe Community program began in Massachusetts in 2002, and has since spread nationally and internationally (heartsafe-community.org). More than 160 towns and communities in Massachusetts, as well as 10 in Rhode Island, have earned the “HeartSafe Community” designation from the states’ Departments of Public Health and the American Heart Association.

A HeartSafe community promotes survival from a sudden out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (SCA) by providing widespread public training and access to emergency care, including cardiopulmonary resus-

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by 71% in people over 60 years old.

The enrollment cost for the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program includes a one-year adult membership to the Y, measurable progress, and unlimited support, as well as convenient on-site workplace classes. Medicare will be offering the program as a wellness benefit to qualifying individuals starting in April 2018. Some private health insurance plans offer a membership benefit, and the YMCA offers financial assistance. Fall River residents may qualify for funding through the MA Department of Public Health.

For more information, contact Dara Midwood at 508-996-9622 x 141 or at ymcadpp@ymcasouthcoast.org.

citation (CPR), automated emergency defibrillators (AED) in public places, and pre-hospital care from paramedics in the event of heart attack or cardiac arrest.

Commonwealth,

common health Twenty-five years ago the Massachusetts Department of Public Health developed the “Community Health Network Area” (CHNA) program, which supports community-based efforts devoted to building healthier living through prevention and public education programs. Each of the coalitions sets up task forces targeting a community’s unique health needs, ranging from school and workplace wellness

munity, the South Shore Community Partners in Prevention, and the Greater New Bedford Allies for Health and Wellness.

Another local health and wellness coalition is Voices for a Healthy Southcoast, supported by the CDC’s Healthy Communities Program. The Voices’ community health action response teams (CHARTs) focus on health-related issues such as physical activity, tobacco cessation, nutrition, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease prevention. Participating local organizations and health officials include the YMCA Southcoast, the Immigrants Assistance Center, Southcoast Hospitals Group, Healthy City Fall River, the Greater New Bedford Community Health Center, and the Hunger Commission of SE Mass (voicesforahealthysouthcoast.org).

The SouthCoast Healthy Housing and Workplace Initiative aims to reduce heart/ lung disease and other smoking-related ailments by working with landlords, employers, and housing authorities to eliminate second-hand tobacco exposure in Fall River, New Bedford, and Wareham.

“Mass in Motion!”

Eating more nutritious foods and getting more regular exercise can be a real challenge if your local community doesn’t prioritize healthier lifestyles.

But Massachusetts is way ahead of the lifestyle-change curve. “Mass in Motion” (MiM) is a state-funded initiative that promotes community-based opportunities for healthy eating and a more active living wherever people live, work, learn, or play.

Getting your blood pressure under control is the most important step you can take in becoming heart-healthy programs, support for farmers markets and community gardens, to local fitness challenges.

The CHNA South Coast coalitions include the Greater Taunton Health and Human Services Coalition, the Greater Fall River Partners for a Healthier Com-

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In addition to many micro-initiatives to get people walking more (like the “Staircase Art Gallery” at the Fall River Government Center or walkfallriver.org), there’s the “Healthy Dining” program, which works with area restaurants to offer more healthful menu options. There’s

also the “Healthy Markets” program, which works with convenience stores and neighborhood markets to offer more fresh produce, whole-grain, and low-fat foods. To learn more about the many local programs and business participants in “Mass in Motion” programs, go to mass.gov/massinmotion.

A n ounce of prevention Even with the best hospitals and the many state and local programs to keep us heart-healthy, we all need to take responsibility for reducing our CVD risk factors – watching our blood pressure, our weight, and our exposure to stress. High blood pressure (aka HBP or hypertension) is called the “silent killer” because you don’t notice it as you would a rash or a sudden pain. But if it’s left untreated, it can cause early death or disability.

According to the American Heart Association, only half of the more than 80 million Americans with high blood pressure are controlling it properly, leaving them at high risk of strokes, blindness, heart attacks, kidney failure, and a whole lot of unnecessary misery. Getting your blood pressure under control is the most important step you can take in becoming heart-healthy.

Living light: taking

the pounds off Obesity creates a high risk for developing type 2 diabetes, CVD, hypertension, and strokes. If you think your outer body looks bad, then it’s a major clue that your internal body is in even worse shape.

Some studies indicate that the ratio of your waist-to-hip measurement is a much better predictor of your cardiovascular health than is your weight or BMI (body mass index). In other words, your waistline should never be larger than your hips. The risk of developing obesityrelated illnesses like high blood pressure, diabetes, and CVD has been linked to waist sizes over 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women.

Taking the pressure off If you’re really serious about your heart health, you need to dial back on the stress in your life. Stress triggers “fight-or-flight” biochemical responses that elevate your blood pressure by flooding the blood stream with adrenaline (epinephrine), cortisol, and norepinephrine.

Sensory overload will also stress you

Shinrin-yoku: 'Forest Bathing' Shinrin-yoku is the Japanese practice of self-healing by being surrounded by trees and nature. Scientific studies show that just wandering through the woods regularly can reduce cortisol, boost the body’s immune defenses, and lower blood glucose levels. It’s sometimes referred to as “wellness walking.”

One of our best local heart-health developments was when regional healthcare providers worked with local natural resources organizations to promote more active living and stress-busting. Southcoast Health and the Buzzards Bay Coalition created “Discover Buzzards Bay” – guided monthly outdoor walks called “Sunday Strolls,” and an online portal with information about 100+ public places to walk, birdwatch, picnic, kayak/canoe, fish, or cross-country ski. Go to savebuzzardsbay.org/discover/ events – and check out thetrustees.org and massaudubon.org, too.

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out – so tune out the “noise” in your life and don’t try to accomplish twenty things at once. “Type A” workaholic behavior and non-stop multitasking will make you a prime candidate for cardiovascular disease.

Find simple ways to counter those stress hormones by kickstarting your natural endorphins, the “happy hormones” like serotonin and dopamine. If you exercise regularly, you’ll recognize this “happy hormone” biochemical response as a “runner’s high.” A sense of humor, smiling, and laughing triggers the release of your body’s endorphins. Certain aromas, like vanilla or lavender, or just walking through a park [see sidebar], can make you feel more relaxed. And here’s more good news – nibbling on dark chocolate is a scientifically-proven antidote for stress!

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

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GOOD TIMES

Dr. Cathleen Hood

Dr. K aren O ttenstein

Making patients

primary

Talk with your doctor or any doctor practicing in the United States and it won’t be long before the subject of insurance comes up. Many doctors will tell you that the hoops through Greg which a medical practitioner must jump – the Jones paperwork, bureaucracy, and electronic data mining between the doctor and the insurance company – is easily the most onerous aspect of their chosen profession.

The hours spent on red tape are not “billable hours,” either. At least not directly.

You will not see that item on your insurance EOB, the explanation of benefits, but it is there, and it is considerable. The time that doctors spend doing insurance paperwork is “baked into” the cost of medical care, and it raises the cost of everything. More importantly, it diminishes their time with you, the patient.

Additionally, the insurance company is now often the party that makes decisions as to treatment methods. Logic would lead one to think that decisions on medical care should be made by the patient, in partnership with the attending physician.

That is not always the case. The insurance company can dictate testing and

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treatments, often based on a cost/benefit algorithm derived from large studies.

Primary Care Partnership is just like any medical practice, with one very important difference: they do not work with insurance companies

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With this is mind, and in an effort to restore ownership of medical decisionmaking to the doctor-patient relationship, two doctors have launched a medical practice with care based on a business model known as Direct Primary Care. Dr. Cathleen Hood and Dr. Karen Ottenstein converted their existing family medicine practice at 793 Main Road in Westport, Primary Care Partnership, to the new model in October.

Cutting red tape In some ways, Primary Care Partnership is just like any medical practice, with one very important difference: they do not work with insurance companies.

With Direct Primary Care (DPC) there is no third party (the insurance company) standing between, and sometimes getting in the way of, the patient and the doctor.

"DPC allows us to hew to our pledge that ‘the care of the individual patient will ever be our first concern,’” said Dr. Hood.

“I suppose you could say it respects the tradition of the Hippocratic Oath.”

Primary Care Partnership, with its DPC model, more nearly resembles the days when one had a family doctor. The physician knew all the patients and provided

them with care based on their needs, not on preauthorizations and mandates specifying some care and creating obstacles to other options. With over 30 years' clinical experience each, Drs. Hood and Ottenstein recall those days and the quality of care that was possible then, and are seeking to reclaim it. If a physician was exhausted at the end of a long work day, at least it was because of demanding patient care, not frustrating billing-related mandates.

Dr. Ottenstein noted that DPC, as practiced by Primary Care Partnership, is not concierge medicine. “Typically, concierge practices charge a premium for extra service provided, over and above the insurance, and so remain under insurance purview.” With DPC, patients pay a monthly fixed fee, and receive all primary care services for that amount, without any added charges, such as copays or itemized expenses. At Primary Care Partnership, continued Dr. Ottenstein, “DPC fees are payment in full for services provided; there is no other source of income.”

What that payment can amount to, with DPC, can vary widely from practice to practice. “Ours is determined by the number of patients we feel we can provide this level of care for, 24/7,” said Dr. Ottenstein. “When viewed this way, it is remarkable value for the dollar. Keeping most care in-house means savings of deductibles and copays, as well as unnecessary medications.”

When a Primary Care Partnership patient wants to contact their doctor, they can call, fax, text, email, use their website, primarycarepartnership.com, or the patient portal at Prima-care.com. The patient will be connected to a person who knows them “as an individual,” said Dr. Ottenstein. When seen in the office they are taken promptly and not rushed out.

They are given the option to be treated without an office visit, when possible and appropriate. They have a dedicated, HIPAA-compliant, encrypted telephone conduit to their physician to use at their discretion when the office is closed, which permits texting, sharing photos and video, and calling.

“We have always found the time allotted for patient care in the current system of care inadequate to support our level of care,” said Dr. Hood. Insurance companies want to know how many minutes your doctor spends with you, and the typical requirement is 15 minutes. At

PCP, your doctor and you will determine how long the consultation requires. Dr. Hood said that, “we persevered as long as we could, understanding that patients rely on doctors to accept their insurance. When we felt we could no longer abide the increasing compromises being exacted of us to remain in compliance, we sought a way that would give us freedom to do our best work. We found DPC with the assistance of an able consultant, and the support of our corporate affiliate, Prima CARE, PC.”

Best practices There will be times and cases, of course, when the patient needs the services of a major medical facility. The patient’s regular health insurance still applies to all other incurred costs, such as lab fees, imaging services (such as X-rays, MRIs, and CAT scans), pharmacies, specialists' fees, and medications. Phlebotomy is provided in-house at PCP. An array of point-of-service tests are done on the spot, included in the DPC fee.

"We have always found the time allotted for patient care in the current system of care inadequate to support our level of care" Consider that the practice of medicine can be roughly broken down into two approaches: maintaining wellness and treating illness. When asked about this, the doctors said that they do both.

Maintaining wellness is the result of the doctor being a partner in achieving and maintaining optimal health for the patient. “Sometimes that means preventing disease and sometimes that means treating it,” said Dr. Ottenstein. “It is a continuum for most patients, and defined uniquely for each person.”

Sometimes the treatment goes beyond pills and potions. At PCP, the doctors incorporate the use of what they term “allied practices.” These include yoga, meditation, Alexander Technique, muscular therapy and other forms of body work, acupuncture, and counseling/mindful-

ness. Both doctors are students of Tai Chi, and encourage patients to take classes, too. Together with the medical expertise of the PCP physicians, with the diagnostic and treatment tools they have at their disposal, these “new age” treatments can be very successful.

Of the alternative approaches, Dr. Hood said, "These ‘new-age’ treatments are actually ancient practices, and have more recently been shown in rigorous scientific studies to statistically improve outcomes for a variety of medical applications."

There is much to be said for and learned from these approaches, and “Westport has a network of remarkably talented practitioners with whom we enjoy collaborating, often successfully addressing myofascial and inflammatory conditions especially, with more expediency than conventional approaches.” When these treatments are done upon the prescription of a physician, Dr. Hood noted that insurance companies can “often allow patients to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses.”

Primary Care Partnership may be the future of medical care, or at least one of the better futures. You will have your own doctor. The doctor will take as long as needed to consult with and care for you.

As board-certified family physicians, Drs. Hood and Ottenstein provide a full array of primary care services for men, women, and children above the age of 5, including nutrition support, office-based gynecology services, minor office-based surgical services, such as laceration repairs and skin biopsies, some cosmetic skin procedures, and office-based orthopedic care, including injuries and overuse. You will pay a budgetable, predictable amount for much better access to doctors who know you, listen to you, help you develop and adhere to a personalized plan for your health, and advocate for you. Their seasoned, professional staff, which includes an experienced RN, are also your advocates, helping navigate the sometimes overwhelming system of healthcare and looking out for you personally.

Primary Care Partnership is located at 793 Main Road in Westport. Their phone number is 508-636-7890. For more information, including fees, go to primarycarepartnership.com.

G reg J ones is a local writer and lives in Dartmouth.

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PRIME LIVING

Memory Cafés expanding B y J oyce Rowley

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ast month, the Town of Acushnet Council on Aging (COA) joined a growing number of senior centers offering a new venue for elders: a memory café for local folks with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, friends, and family.

"Things are becoming more Alzheimer'sfriendly," said Heather Sylvia, Acushnet COA director.

"We're going in a positive direction. It H eather used to be that a S ylvia diagnosis of Alzheimer's meant people were closed off from everyone, especially in small towns. Now, people as young as 40 or 50 years old are being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's and it's become more common."

The first "South Main Street Café" at the Acushnet COA center at 59 1/2 Main Street attracted 14 people on January 19.

Jack Radcliffe, fiddler and raconteur, provided entertainment, Sylvia said.

Acushnet joins Dartmouth and Marion on the South Coast to offer a two-hour activity period and refreshments or lunch.

But mostly they offer a nonjudgmental place for people diagnosed with Alzheimer's and dementia who miss the enjoyment of eating out and socializing.

One of the effects of the disease is the loss of a "filter," causing the person to speak out of turn

and act differently. They may become repetitive in what they say, or they may call out. And that can lead to stares and awkward moments. By contrast, memory cafés allow people to be themselves with others who are also dealing with the same problems.

"They know it may have been them last week who acted that way, so it's not a problem," Sylvia said. "Our guests educate each other on the different types of dementia."

A growing idea

the outcome. We knew that there was a need," DiPietro said. "There is an Alzheimer's group that meets at the senior center every month."

Like all of the COAs, the Dartmouth COA uses volunteers to help with setting up the cafés and making guests feel comfortable.

"The volunteers are an integral part of the café," said DiPietro. "We have a group of eight very dedicated, experienced volunteers."

Patricia Midurski, a registered nurse specializing in Alzheimer's, trained volunteers at the Marion and Dartmouth COAs. She now works part-time with the Acushnet COA coordinating volunteers after retiring from Community Nurse, a nonprofit nursing and health care provider on the South Coast.

Sometimes it's just being able to name the problem Daily arrivals that leads guests to relax Karen Gregory, and talk about it.

Marion COA direcIn October, the Town of tor, said that they knew Dartmouth Council on Agthe café would help the ing opened their memory café memory-impaired person, at the senior center on DartK aren but it also helps the caregivers mouth Road.

G regory share things that they are go"There was so much laughter ing through and discuss ways and everyone was so relaxed," to deal with it.

COA director Amy DiPietro The dedicated group of 25-30 people said about their first café. that attend range in age from their early "It's great for everyone, 60s to late 90s. But, Gregory said, "They're including the caregivers very consistent. They don't like to miss a and family members, café." to get out with people The Waterfront Memory Café meets who are in the same weekly at the COA center, formerly at the situation."

Music Hall on the waterfront but are now DiPietro said that held at the Benjamin J. Cushing Commuabout 20 people joined nity Center at 465 Mill Street. them at the first event The café starts with lunch and socialand that it has been wellizing at 11:30, and then begins activities. attended since.

A my A "Joy & Sorrows" session began when "We're really excited with D i Pietro

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one member passed away as a way to let other members of the café know. Now it's become a time to share the week's events and support each other through good and bad times, Gregory said.

There's also a 40-minute group activity. In January it was Awesome Robb, a magician (aka Robb Preskin), who kept the group entertained. Preskin ended with a flourish by pulling a live rabbit out of a hat. The rabbit was also available for petting after the show. Gregory said they planned a round of "Name That Tune," using recorded love songs in honor of February for the next café.

E ach cafe is run on a different day so that guests can have something to do several times a week Each cafe is run on a different day so that guests can have something to do several times a week. The South Main Street Cafe in Acushnet is open every Friday with activities from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and lunch following. Dartmouth's memory cafés are afternoon socials from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays each month. The Marion Waterfront Memory Café meets for lunch and activities at 11:30 a.m. each Wednesday.

Memory cafés are also held in East Bridgewater, Fall River, and Taunton, too.

Participants can go to a different memory café each week, or if they miss one, can catch up with friends at the next one.

Residency is not required at any of the memory cafés, but guests are asked to bring a friend, family member, or caregiver. Lunches are provided by Coastline Elderly at the South Main Street Cafe in Acushnet and Waterfront Cafe in Marion.

A voluntary $2 donation is requested, but not required for lunch. All of the cafés ask that guests to call ahead and pre-register.

For more information at the South Main Street Cafe, call the Acushnet COA at 508-998-0280. For the Dartmouth COA afternoon socials, call 508-999-4717. And for the Waterfront Memory Café, call the Marion COA at 508-748-3570.

J oyce Rowley is a freelance writer who lives in the historic City of New Bedford on the South Coast.

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GOOD TIMES

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ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY: PUTTING PRECISION TOOLS IN THE HANDS OF THE SURGEON

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f robotic-assisted surgery makes you think of characters from 1960s TV cartoons or science fiction movies, think again.

At Saint Anne’s Hospital, in Fall River, roboticassisted technologies are helping surgeons perform a wide range of common procedures more efficiently and more precisely than ever before.

Understanding robotic-assisted surgery A common misconception is that the “robot” is performing the surgery. In fact, the surgeon controls the movement of robotic instruments at all times. Here’s a snapshot of what’s available at Saint Anne’s: General surgery, prostate surgery and gynecological surgery: In 2017, Saint Anne’s introduced da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery for a wide range of procedures.

From hernia repair and colorectal surgery to prostate surgery and hysterectomy, the da Vinci system allows surgeons to perform intricate procedures through tiny incisions.

Seated at a special console with hand and

foot controls, the surgeon moves the da Vinci’s robotic arms, which hold a small camera and instruments, to perform the procedure. The 3-D high-definition camera allows the surgeon to clearly see the area to be operated on, while the arms are highly flexible – more flexible

than the human wrist – so that the surgeon can easily and more precisely maneuver the instruments as needed.

Spine surgery: Patients with degenerative disk disease, fracture, or spinal stenosis now have a brand-new robotic-assisted option in spine care. Saint Anne’s became the first hospital in Massachusetts in late 2017 to offer advanced robotic-assisted technology that uses a GPS Somerset Grille system for spinal fusion and other procedures.

The Globus ExcelsiusGPSTM system uses robotics and a sophisticated navigation system, similar to that in a car, to guide the surgeon in performing spinal procedures.

Images that are taken before surgery are fed into the system to create a “map” of the patient’s anatomy. This “map” guides a robotic arm operated by the surgeon to the exact location for precise implant.

Joint replacement surgery: According to the National Institutes for Health, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder in the United States. Knee OA occurs in 10% of men and in 13% of women, age 60 years or older.

For patients of all ages with knee or hip OA, Saint Anne’s Hospital has led the way in the region by providing robotic-assisted knee and hip replacement. In 2011, Saint Anne’s became the first hospital in Massachusetts to offer robotic-assisted MAKO technology for partial knee replacement. In 2012, the hospital added MAKO for total hip replacement and, coming in spring 2018, will offer MAKO for total knee replacement.

A quicker return to doing the things you love From joint replacement and spine surgery, to prostate surgery, hernia repair, colorectal surgery, and hysterectomy, robotic-assisted surgery is helping patients experience a number of benefits.

This minimally invasive approach allows the surgeon to use smaller incisions than those needed for laparoscopic or open surgery. This means less post-surgical pain, fewer complications, and faster recovery.

Before surgery, CT images are taken to create a patient-specific plan. During surgery, the system creates a 3-D, live-action view of the joint and matches the view to the presurgical plan. The robotic arm provides realtime feedback to help the surgeon achieve precise positioning and placement of the new implant. The end result is a more natural feeling joint. To date, Saint Anne’s orthopedic surgeons have performed more than 700 MAKO procedures.

To learn more about robotic-assisted surgery at Saint Anne’s Hospital:

• Visit: saintanneshospital.org/services-directory/surgical-services.

• Email us at SAHMail@Steward.org.

saintanneshospital.org

GOOD TIMES

Fixin’ for a phone Mobile phones are more powerful than ever, featuring better battery life, better cameras, and sharper screens. Not surprisingly, the models with the most to offer now top $1,000 in price.

Dan Logan

We want cool phones, but we also want reliable phones. A day without one's mobile phone is a day fraught with a real sense of loss, even to the point of panic.

Everyone has tales to tell about mobile phone disasters. Many are the result of accidents. Then there are minor problems with the hardware. And finally, major problems with the hardware. Users want quick solutions to their phone crises, and they don't want to have to buy a new phone to solve the problem.

In the case of accidental damage, buying a new phone may pencil out as the most logical option. Dunking phones in some kind of liquid accounts for a healthy percentage of dead phones.

Dropping them onto something hard from a height of two inches to ten feet is another favorite way of accidentally dam-

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aging or destroying a phone, as is introducing a cool curve to the phone by sitting on it when it's in one's rear pocket.

Service providers might not offer inexpensive repair work on phones with

Most phones have some kind of limited warranty so you're covered for the warranty period if components go bad accidental damage. But design and manufacturing issues will always be with us, and sellers offer some degree of repair cost reduction in the form of warranties on phones with an inherent problem.

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So what happens if you get a dud – your phone needs a repair because it was built wrong, or a part goes bad? If you're trying to get a fix on what your new phone might actually cost you, it pays to have some idea of what it would cost if your phone needed repair.

Most phones have some kind of limited warranty so you're covered for the warranty period if components go bad.

With some research, usually on the service provider's website, you can find out what is covered under the limited warranty and what isn't for a particular model of phone. In the heat of new phone acquisition, most of us aren't likely to do this. After all, how likely are they to tell you that this particular model is a dog even if one part gives it up 20 or 30 or 80 percent of the time?

So you call with your complaint, the company looks through its records and decides your phone has a problem covered by the warranty, and they send you a new one, which usually means two or three days cut off from the world as you prefer it.

My own tale of woe was a hundred-dollar LG Spectrum I got on a two-year Verizon

contract. After six months the phone thorized repair network there are also ungoes wrong with it. authorized third-party repair outfits out simply stopped responding to any input.

For example, iFixIt awarded the new, there who might do the job, though using Couldn't even shut it off. Back it went to thousand-dollar iPhone X a repairability one of them might void the warranty. Or Verizon. Verizon replaced it within a few score of 6. According to iFixIt the battery you can fix your phone yourself, though days. About six months later the same is easy to get at, but replacement parts thing happened with the tend to be expensive because of replacement. And happened the phone's design. iFixit also wo bills are currently in the again with the third phone. notes the phone has glass on The fourth phone soon operassachusetts legislature that the front and back, enhancing ated only on speaker phone, the opportunities for cracking – would require manufacturers and the rear glass is real hard to which I tolerated till my contract ran out soon after. to provide fair access to service remove.

Verizon must have had a Design trade-offs aren't limited to Apple products. Scrolling warehouse full of Spectrums information security updates through the list one will see all to serve up to customers and replacement parts the familiar names (and some trapped in seemingly endless not so familiar) in the mobile contracts with these lemons. this too might void the warranty. phone world.

I moved to a TracFone, where my only In fact, many manufacturers keep techSamsung, Apple's major mobile phone smartphone choice was a $50 LG – annical information to themselves, arguing other LG, but a different model. This one competitor, has a similarly mixed record that they suffer the blame when indepenhas been chugging along for about four on the repairability of its phones. For dent repair businesses do a shoddy job of years without a problem. example, iFixIt gives the new Samsung fixing one of their phones. However, that Galaxy Note8 a 4 on repairability, noting Bad apples approach can also be read as the manuthat many parts are modular, but a strong Repair options are spelled out on your facturer keeping repair prices unnecesadhesive and lots of glass make it a real service provider's or manufacturer's sarily high because the independents are chore to repair the screen or change the respective websites. With millions of boxed out. battery.

Apple's phenomenally successful iPhone Two bills are currently in the MassaEvery model has its quirks. Because of in the field, Apple maintains a detailed chusetts legislature that would require the mobile phone's tight confines, what menu of repair options. A host of iPhone "manufacturers to provide owners and goes into making the phone thinner and repair web pages (support.apple.com/ independent repair information businesslighter tends to make it more vulnerable. iphone/repair) spell out the company es with fair access to service information, To keep costs down they are also put toprocedures for taking care of and chargsecurity updates, and replacement parts." gether in ways that discourage easy repair, ing for iPhone problems. meaning lots of glue, and screws The basic Apple Limited Warecause of the mobile phone s requiring specialized screwdrivers ranty provides a year of hardand other tools. ware repair coverage. It doesn't Depending on which part tight confines what goes cover accidental damage. The decides to go belly up, the repair repair may entail shipping fees, into making the phone thinner may be easy or difficult, and most plus any applicable taxes. phones are some combination of For a fee of $129-$199 dependand lighter tends to make it the two. ing on the phone model, the One would think modular more vulnerable company's AppleCare+ program phones with easily replaceable extends and enhances the Apple parts would be a sensible apLimited Warranty, adding anproach. But modular phones with A useful site for gathering some backother year of coverage from the original easily replaceable parts made another run ground on specific phones is iFixIt (ifixit. purchase date, as well as covering up to in 2017 but quickly lost steam, still being com). The company was founded 15 two incidents of accidental damage for too difficult technically to engineer at a years ago to provide detailed information additional service fees during the repair reasonable cost. about repairing specific mobile phones, period.

Like cable TV, mobile phones promise to laptops, tablets, and a lot more devices.

It The AppleCare+ repair price is fixed at keep us in thrall forever. Some research definitely filled a need. $99 for most models, but out-of-warranty work up front might help you sniff out The iFixIt website features a page scoring service prices go up substantially. For the duds before you actually own one of a long list of mobile phone models acexample, an out-of-warranty repair on the them and keep you from being rudely cording to the ease of repairing them and iPhone X will cost as much as $549. shocked if your expensive phone sudgiving a quick rundown of the design feaIf your phone suffers "catastrophic damdenly needs work. tures that factor into the score (ifixit.com/ age," as Apple puts it, plan on buying a smartphone-repairability). A score of 10 new phone.

Dan L ogan is a freelance writer and phomeans the phone will be easy and fairly S ystemic problems tographer from Fairhaven, MA. E-mail him at inexpensive to repair, while a 0 suggests In addition to the service provider's audlogan@thegrid.net. the phone should be tossed if something

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PRIME SEASON

Precious things My grandson is five. Together we walk our farm and identify the creatures and gifts of nature that make their homes here. I teach him about the flowers, the plants, the bugs, and Sherri the animals. I tell him not to squeeze the baby M ahoneybirds that we are raising in the barn. They are Battles precious, I tell him. In my home he is eager to touch everything. Sometimes he will ask me before he picks up something breakable, “Is it precious Mimi?”

By all accounts I am a bean counter, but I am also a voyeur with a looking glass into many lives. Yesterday I spoke with a client who just made the difficult decision to sell her home of many years to move closer to her two daughters and new grandchild. We explored all of the financial ramifications, but in the end the financial calculations carried no weight.

She missed her children, and her new grandchild was too precious to her to be so far away.

Recently, one of our turkey hens hatched a dozen chicks. Unfortunately, we had a day of torrential cold rain, and she lost all but one of her chicks. A week later we received a shipment of day-old turkeys which we kept in our barn under a heat lamp for a few weeks. When we felt they were old enough to go outside, my husband suggested that we place the mother turkey and her one surviving chick in with the other chicks.

We were nervous about the mother and her older chick being in with the younger chicks, but didn’t see any signs of aggres-

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sion when we placed the birds together.

A few nights later we left before dark to go out to dinner. We could see the young chicks strutting around under the heat lamp in their new outdoor pen as we left the farm. When we returned after dark it appeared that all of the baby chicks had disappeared. Alarmed, we stopped in the driveway to examine the pen.

The mother turkey had settled herself for the night, and nestled under her wings were all of the baby birds. Her instinct to mother was strong, and the young chicks were happy to seek warmth and shelter in the cocoon she created for them. One of our ducks has been sitting on eggs in the chicken coop for the last few months to no avail, and I have a dozen or so baby guinea keets in the barn ready to head outside. Tomorrow night I will sneak the baby guineas under the duck, and I suspect that she will happily mother her new babies. After all, how could she not love the small precious things?

Like everyone, I collect various things.

Blue and white china has been a passion

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of mine since I was a young girl, and I purchased my first set of Spode Blue Italian dishes when I was barely twenty. My home is filled with the precious things I have collected over the course of my life, but I know that these things I have collected are not the most precious things I have.

When my mother came home with hospice, she lay dying for thirteen days. She didn’t ask for the things she had collected over the years. She asked for her children, grandchildren, mother, brothers, sisters, friends, and neighbors. She asked for a view of the birds and the sky. So we set up a bed on her porch with a view of the birds and the sky, and we opened the door to all of the people in her life. And every day for thirteen days she asked for just one more precious moment to be with those people and things she loved. In her last dying days my beautiful mother showed us all what precious really means.

My mother has been gone for eight years now, but when I look at the birds and the sky I remember how precious these things were to her. Memories of my mother are everywhere. I see her in the eyes of my daughter as she mothers her children and the animals that mother their young on our farm. And I walk with my grandson into another precious day.

S herri M ahoney-Bat tles, an income tax preparation specialist, is a regular contributor to 'South Coast Prime Times.'

Contact her at 508-636-9829 or Sherilyn@ taxingmatters.com.

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I

t has been said that “there is nothing common about common sense.” We couldn’t agree more!

We had a client, “Joe,” try to get his mom, “Rose,” on MassHealth.

Joe was his mom’s representative.

Unfortunately she passed away, but soon after MassHealth sent Joe and Rose a denial notice of eligibility because Rose was dead!

MassHealth took the time, money, and resources to send a deceased woman a notice of ineligibility.

Fortunately, Joe had a great sense of humor about it.

These actions are very frustrating. MassHealth is unpredictable, making it difficult for clients to file applications on their own. Often information is requested that has already been submitted. If you’re having difficulty dealing with MassHealth, we can help! Call us at 508-994-5200. ©Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. 35 Arnold St, New Bedford, MA. This article does not constitute legal advice.

There is no attorney/client relationship created with Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. by this article. DO NOT make decisions based upon information in this handout. Every family is unique and legal advice can only be given after an individual consultation with an elder law attorney. Any decisions made without proper legal advice may cause significant legal and financial problems.

M ichelle D. B eneski is an Attorney at Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. For specific questions email mdb@ nbelderlaw.com or call 508-994-5200.

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PRIME SEASON

UM assD and other students give back to the community by helping out at the YMCA’s farm in Dartmouth.

Dig into

gardening One of the sure signs of spring is the arrival of the seed and plant catalogs. The colorful photos inspire visions of flowers and fresh vegetables where the brown mulch and dirty snow remain.

Michael J. Vieira

Hope springs eternal and spring brings hope.

We need a little of both these days.

Among the glossy publications that some consider junk mail, the Burpee catalog is probably the most famous, with its annual collection of vegetable, flower, perennials, herbs and other seeds and plants.

But Park, Gurney’s, Johnny’s and Michigan Bulb also tease with great photos and early shopping discounts. So, as spring and hope beckon, how do you decide what to plant and what’s appropriate?

Go natural Some of the prettiest plants may also harmful. These are considered “invasive” plants and include such local favorites as burning bush and bittersweet.

They come from other countries and climates. With their crawling roots and colorful disguise, they take over our gardens. So why not plant native? Maybe because we don’t know the difference.

A new book, Native Plants for New England Gardens, published by Globe Pequot and the New England Wild Flower

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Society, can help. In it are more than 100 native flowers, ground covers, shrubs, ferns, and grasses that are unique to New England.

“As native plant enthusiasts ourselves, we recognize that not every native plant belongs in a garden,” said Mark Richardson, who wrote the book with Dan Jaffe.

“This book represents what we feel are some of the best native garden plants the New England flora has to offer.”

No matter what plant is selected, the key is “the right plant for the right place” The authors suggest that no matter what plant is selected, the key is “the right plant for the right place.” That means paying attention to the requirements for sun, soil, size, and other components.

Looking for something that will bloom early? Carolina spring beauty is a compact flowering plant that grows from March to mid-May. Bluets are small enough to fit in

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rock crevices, but have flowers that bloom heavily in spring and early summer, then sporadically through the fall.

Cardinal flowers, with their bright red hue and long flowers, are favored by hummingbirds and butterflies. Add some fall color with a sassafras tree whose various shaped leaves turn a variety of colors in autumn.

“Native plants, when properly sited, have low maintenance requirements and reflect the distinct character of a region,” he explained, “These are the best choices for New England gardeners who are interested not just in creating a beautiful garden, but also in supporting a wide range of pollinators and other wildlife.”

The book is available on Amazon.com and through the Globe Pequot website (globepequot.com).

Grow your own For many, pretty flowers and shrubs are nice, but if you’re going to do the work, you might as well plant something that you can eat.

There may be some who remember the Victory Gardens that were popular – and necessary – in World Wars I and II. But if not, many recall the stories told about them by parents and grandparents, as well as have watched the popular PBS series of the same name which is now in its 36th season.

The idea is to take the space you have,

plant vegetables that you’ll eat, and future semesters and watch for special share or preserve what you can’t eat. For programs. those of us who didn’t survive the Great Jim Corven coordinates the program Depression – but who grew up with folks and each spring BCC has a plant sale. The who saved string, foil, and food because “Seeds of Sustainability” club organizes they did – it’s an easy lesson. that event and the college regularly hosts For those who don’t workshops that are remember or are too open to the comtake the space you munity. Contact the young, there’s also have, plant vegetables coordinator or visit an website (pbs.org/ the college site wgbh/victorygarden) that you’ll eat, and (bristolcc.edu) for with lots of resources more information. including tips on share or preserve Knowledge may planning, growing, what you can’t eat be power, but as the caring, eating, and Bible and Karma more. There are also states, “As you sow, so shall you reap.” projects that you can do indoors and suggestions for taking care of house plants.

That might be a plethora of produce, a ton No yard? You can consider container of tomatoes, a bushel of beans – you get gardens. We have friends who swear by the point. raised garden bed boxes on wheels that Some folks, especially those who live have their own watering systems. You can alone or older couples, may not want to find them at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and plant gardens because they often produce online. much more than is needed. How many How to weed and what to feed are altomatoes can you give away? Sure you ways the big questions. We live in a time can make sauce – and pickles from the of genetically altered foods and chemical cukes. overload.

If you’ve ever experienced zucchini There was a time when to every seabread overload, but still want to play in son, there was a fruit or vegetable. Now, the dirt, there are options. thanks to the miracle of science or Grow together mutation by corporations, you can eat An increasing number of schools, parks, whatever you want whenever you want. apartment complexes, and other faciliBut at what cost? ties have provided space and support to Be sustainable community gardens. According to the Over the past few years, there has been a Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural lot of discussion about organic gardening.

Partnership (SEMAP) website: Now, you can go to the store, buy organic, “Community gardens foster the development of community identity and spirit. and pay twice as much.

Gardens have the ability to evolve into Or you can grow your own, avoid cultural spaces, flower gardens, and chemicals, and eat healthy. Once again, areas for community check the internet and for resources, but "Community gardens get-togethers festivals.” also contact the local agricultural foster the development Especially in the cities, these gardens schools and farm of community identity also improve the organizations for quality of life. programs and help and spirit" “Community with soil testing and gardens create open other issues. space in city neighborhoods where green For a little formal education, you can go space is in shortest supply,” Hillary Anto Bristol Community College, which offers a Sustainable Agriculture program. derson noted on the SEMAP site, “Within This semester, there are courses in high-density development, community sustainable agriculture, water acquisition gardens improve air quality, reduce noise and conservation, and natural beekeepand air pollution, and create environing. Although it’s too late to sign up ments hospitable to plant and animal for these classes, check bristolcc.edu in species.”

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Can you spend one morning or evening a week helping adult students learn to speak English or to improve basic reading, writing, or math skills?

For more information call Donna Adams, Volunteer Facilitator

(508)997-4511 x2419

New Bedford Public Schools, Division of Adult/Continuing Education

We buy your unwanted firearms and accessories.

Many households have unwanted firearms that may have belonged to yourself or a family member - and you’d like them legally removed from your home - and earn some cash as well. We come to YOU! For an in-home consultation, please call Bill Bachant (774) 263-3134 or email bgslakeville@gmail.com

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SEMAP notes that planting can begin as early at April 1, which also shares information about nearly 40 community gardens in the South Coast – and even more if you venture to the Providence area. Visit guide.farmfreshri.org for more information.

In the South Coast, the Harvest Community Farm has been helping to fight hunger since 2006. The collaboration between the Dartmouth YMCA and the United Way of Greater New Bedford’s Hunger Commission of Southeastern Massachusetts has provided opportunities and food for many.

“Since 2006 we have donated more than 500,000 pounds of produce and 40,000 free range eggs all through the efforts of more than 60,000 hours of volunteer service,” stated Daniel H. King, Sharing the Harvest Community Farm Director.

According to their brochure, that translates into about three million servings of fresh food. From asparagus to zucchini, the community farm not only alleviates hunger but promotes volunteerism and teaches volunteers.

Students from the University of Massachusetts, Bristol Community College, and other schools and community groups have taken advantage of the unique combination of education and service at the farm.

“The Y-Farm has been collaborating with the Leduc Center for Civic Engagement at UMass Dartmouth for over 10 years now,” Matthew H. Roy, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Civic Engagement at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth pointed out.

“The goal for our students is to form an identity that is ‘other centered.’ In other words, understand that educated people have a responsibility to help those less fortunate and that the more education one receives the more one has to give,” he said, adding: “We collaborate with them on the 9/11 day of service where we send more than 200 UMass Dartmouth students there to harvest roughly 10,000 pounds of fresh produce for local soup kitchens. It is a great team-building exercise!”

Sometimes, it’s also a demonstration in how there’s power in numbers. Roy recalled one year when the students formed a long line and passed the squash right out of the field which was more ef-

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ficient than filling individual baskets and carrying them.

In addition to the annual day of service, UMD sends smaller groups of students and faculty there every Wednesday afternoon in the fall and spring semesters.

That’s good for the college kids and staff, but anybody can volunteer. The farm has drop-in hours from March to November on Mondays through Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. as well as on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“We always need help here at Sharing the Harvest,” King admitted, adding, “Despite having nearly 4,300 volunteer visits in 2017, there is still a need for more volunteers and more food to help feed our hungry community.”

In addition to the drop-in hours, groups should call 508-993-3361 or email sharingtheharvest@ymcasouthcoast.org to schedule a visit.

For folks like Roy who work hard to instill in young people and others the value of service, the farm helps them help others.

“Honestly, it is difficult to find a place that will take a large number of volunteers that do not need to be trained and that is doing meaningful work to help those in need,” Roy explained. “The Y Farm is that special place where you go with family and friends to serve others... and when you leave there your hands are dirty, your back is sore, but your spirit is renewed.”

And isn’t renewal what Spring gardening is all about?

MICHAEL VIEIRA , Ph.D. retired from full-time administration at BCC. He has written for several newspapers and magazines including ‘The South Coast Insider’ and ‘South Coast Prime Times.’

Brandon Woods:

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where love and skill work together

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randon Woods of New Bedford is a very special place with a tremendous amount of heart, compassion, and commitment from all members of our staff. Please feel free to come in at any time for a tour, meet our wonderful team, and see why we’re the place where love and skill work together.

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JOE SILVA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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oe started off his career in the medical field, which he has been working in for practically all his life. He was a Director of Admissions in a 207-bed l-tach hospital. Joe then joined a chain of long-term care facilities as a Marketing Liason. Joe found his passion in longterm care and decided to further his education and became an administrator.

“Now that I sit in this chair I look at everything through both sides of the lens – the quality of care and the marketing of that care. I look at each patient and treat them as I would want my family to be treated. My goal is to make sure each family member, patient, and employee is comfortable living, staying, visiting, and working at Brandon Woods of New Bedford. I have been in the healthcare field all of my life and it is like a second nature to me. I love to interact with people and feel like I can relate to their feelings and help them overcome any obstacles.

My goal is to make sure everyone's needs are met in a dignified, respectable manner. I insist on customer service and quality patient care. I enjoy making others happy."

PATRICK MORENCY DIRECTOR OF NURSING

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atrick was going to be an electrician out of high school, but after completing his apprenticeship he realized it wasn’t the right path. Patrick's sister recommended that he try nursing. He felt like it was a good choice, and started working towards becoming a licensed practical nurse. Patrick was interested in learning the business side of nursing and received his Nursing Masters in Health Care Administration. He enjoyed working with patients and their families, and it quickly became a passion.

Patrick has now worked in a long-term care facility for over eighteen years, and has been either an assistant director or director of nursing for ten years total.

"You have to be a good listener and a firm educator. Educating the staff is a very important part of my role. As director of nursing, it is important for me to welcome any ideas from my staff colleagues and to work together with them to put systems in place that benefit each patients' needs. We work to help one another achieve our goals and provide the utmost quality of care to our residents."

HEIDI BOTELHO RECEPTIONIST

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hen walking into Brandon Woods of New Bedford, you are greeted by a friendly smile and welcoming personality. Heidi has been a receptionist at Brandon Woods of New Bedford for thirteen years. Heidi also works for our hospice team (New England Hospice). Heidi volunteered her free time at a hospice in the community for over seven years. Heidi started her healthcare career working as a certified nursing assistant for thirty-two years. During those years, she was awarded CNA of the month twelve times. She is most proud of having received CNA of the year, the only winner from 242 facilities.

Heidi welcomes each patient, family member, and employee with a smile as they enter the doors of Brandon Woods of New Bedford. The residents enjoy coming to the lobby to spend time with Heidi. They consider her part of their family. We are fortunate to have such a caring, compassionate, and kind person as a part of the Brandon Woods family.

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The next generation of healthcare services for seniors

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lifton Healthcare Campus, located on Wilbur Avenue in Somerset, spreads over 19 acres overlooking scenic Mount Hope Bay. While the view from the campus is beautiful and notable, it is the services offered by Clifton that are worth talking about. Clifton Healthcare began in 1954 as a traditional nursing home in Fall River, owned and operated

by Nellie A. Greenwood. Today, the campus is owned and operated by Nellie’s grandchildren, siblings Eric Greenwood and Andrea Greenwood-Syron. Over the past 64 years, Clifton has expanded to offer an array of modern healthcare services which can be utilized to maximize independence and outcomes.

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A ndrea Greenwood-S yron and Nick R affa in the Yum-Yum Shoppe, discussing the Italian cuisine of local restaurant, M a R affa’s, for the “Conversations at Clifton” series on Somerset local access television.

The Campus is comprised of the Clifton Rehabilitative Nursing Center, the Clifton Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic, the The facility offers Clifton Assisted Living Community and Clifton Hospice Services. state-of-the-art rehab Offering both short-term rehab and longequipment and therapy term care, Clifton Rehabilitative Nursing Center is certified by both Medicare and services along with skilled Medicaid. The facility offers state-of-theart rehab equipment and therapy services nursing care, and, most along with skilled nursing care, and, most importantly, a friendly importantly, a friendly atmosphere and staff. Clifton’s rehab center is both accredatmosphere and staff. ited by the Joint Commission and certified in Post-Acute Care by the Joint Commission. The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization for the accreditation of healthcare organizations.

Clifton was the first facility in Bristol County to earn the Post-Acute certification from the Joint Commission, and remains one of only a few in the state of Massachusetts.

Located up the hill from the Rehab Center is the Clifton Assisted Living Community, or the “Inn at Clifton.” Modeled after a traditional New England Inn, the assisted living community offers a careful balance of elegance and affordability. The Inn has studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom apartments, and each one is different from the next. A popular place for residents of the Inn to socialize is the Yum-Yum Shoppe, where different events such as “Conversations at Clifton” take place.

Clifton Hospice Services, a community hospice agency, offers yet another valuable resource in the healthcare spectrum to the surrounding community. Clifton Hospice Services’ team is specially trained in end-of-life care. To meet the needs of the community, the team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They serve patients both in the Clifton facilities as well as in the homes of the community, with dignity and respect for individual needs, and strive to promote comfort-care and quality of life. Clifton Hospice Services is a preferred provider for most major insurances, including Medicare and Medicaid.

Clifton Healthcare Campus is located at 444 Wilbur Avenue, Somerset, MA and can be reached at (508) 324-0200.

A

djacent to the Rehab Center is the Clifton Outpatient Rehabilitation Clinic, where Clifton’s experienced therapy team offers physical, occupational, speech, and aquatic therapy to the community on an outpatient basis.

The 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. Clifton’s therapy pool represents one of the most sophisticated therapy options for patients in the South Coast area. With flexible appointment times and immediate appointments available, Clifton’s outpatient clinic is a great therapy resource for nearly all ages, and most major insurances are accepted.

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E xtra! E xtra!

In brief…

Eliz abeth Morse Read

From the middle of winter to the beginning of spring, the South Coast will be full of festivities, hot food, chilly weather fun, and early flowers! Warm up for St. Valentine’s Day, wear your green for St. Patrick’s Day and Earth Day, and welcome the flowers of Easter time! Don’t forget to change your clocks forward on March 11!

Food, feasts, and festivals!

Don’t miss the 2018 Newport Winter Festival February 16-25! Ten days of music, food, festivities, and fun throughout Newport County. For more info, go to newportwinterfestival.com or call 401-847-7666.

Eat Fresh! Eat Local! Head for the year-round farmers market at Stony Creek Farm in Swansea on Sundays. For hours and more info, call 401-465-4832 or go to semaponline.org.

Plan ahead for the Eat Drink RI Festival April 25-28! For details, visit eatdrinkri.com.

Head for the Mount Hope/Bristol Winter Farmers Market at Mount Hope Farm on Saturdays 9 to 1. Cash, credit card, SNAP/EBT, WIC and senior coupons ac-

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cepted. For more info, go to farmfreshri.org.

In Easton, head for either the Marketplace at Simpson Springs (508-238-4472) or the winter farmers market at Oakes Ames Memorial Hall (508-230-0631) on Saturdays. For info, go to semaponline.org.

Ready to go daffy? Plan ahead for all the events of the 5th Annual Newport Daffodils Days Festival April 14-22! No metered parking! For details, go to newportdaffydays.com or discovernewport.com.

Head for the Middletown/Aquidneck Growers Winter Market at Newport Vineyards & Winery on Saturdays 9 to 12:30.

Cash, credit card, SNAP/EBT, WIC and senior coupons accepted. For more info, go to farmfresh.org.

In the greater Plymouth area, head for

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the winter farmers market at Plimouth Plantation on the 2nd Thursday each month. For hours and more info, go to semaponline.org.

Visit the winter farmers market at the Westport Town Hall Annex on Saturdays.

For hours, go to semaponline.org.

Enjoy fresh local foods year-round!

Visit New Bedford’s Indoor Winter Farmers Market at the Times Square Atrium every other Thursday 3 to 6:30 through June! Credit, debit, and SNAP accepted; free parking at the Elm St. Garage with validation. For dates and more info, go to destinationnewbedford.org or call 508817-4166.

Check out the Farmers & Artisans Market every Sunday at the Arcade in downtown Providence (free parking!). For

more info, go to arcadeprovidence.com.

Head for the winter farmers market at Old Rochester Regional HS in Mattapoisett on the 2nd and 4th Saturday each month. For hours and more info, go to semaponline.org.

All things Irish

Head for the Sandywoods Center for the Arts in Tiverton! Don’t miss the Celtic-band favorite Fellswater on February 17! For more info, call 401-241-7349 or go to sandywoodsmusic.com.

Don’t miss the spectacular St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Newport on March 17, rain or shine! For more info, go to newportirish.com.

It’s all happening at the Z in New Bedford! Don’t miss A St. Patrick’s Day Celtic Sojourn on March 16! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Plan ahead for Rhode Island College’s Performing Arts Series in Providence – Dublin Irish Dance will perform on March 13! For a complete schedule of events, go to ric.edu/pfa or call 401-4568144.

Signs of spring

Plan ahead for all the events of the 5th Annual Newport Daffodils Days Festival April 14-22! No metered parking! For details, go to newportdaffydays.com or discovernewport.com.

The Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show will be held at the RI Convention Center April 5-8! For more info, go to ribahomeshow.com.

Wander through the daffodil fields at Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth starting in mid-April! For more info, call 508-9912289 or go to dnrt.org.

Take a stroll through Blithewold Mansion and Gardens in Bristol. Don’t miss “Gateway to Spring” throughout April! For info, call 401-253-2707 or go to blithewold.org.

If you’re 50 or older, check out the day trip to the Boston Flower Show March 14, sponsored by the New Bedford Senior Travel Program. For info and reservations, call 508-991-6171, Tues-Thurs. 9 to 3.

Family-friendly fun

Enjoy free family fun and entertainment on AHA! Nights” in New Bedford!

Bundle everyone up and go on an expert-guided seal watch and nature cruise from Borden Light Marina in Fall River (75 minutes) or from Bowen’s Wharf in Newport (60 minutes) through April! For information and registration, call 401-203-7325 or go to savebay.org/events/seals.

The March 8 theme is “I Am New Bedford: History, Herstory, Ourstory.” The April 12 theme is “Sustainable Southcoast.” For info, go to ahanewbedford.org or call 508-996-8253.

Stroll through Mass Audubon’s Oak Knoll Wildlife Sanctuary and Nature Center! For more info, call 508-223-3060 or visit massaudubon.org.

The Fall River Public Library hosts free afternoon movies (and popcorn!) every Wednesday at 1 p.m., in addition to showings on Monday nights. For more information, visit the library’s Facebook page or visit fallriverlibrary.org.

Check out what’s going on at the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River.

Reduced admission on the first Friday each month. For info, go to cmgfr.org or call 508-672-0033.

One-of-a-kind events and exhibits

Register now for Bristol Community College’s free course on Martin Luther King Jr.’s work after passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Monday nights from March 26 to May 17 at the Fall River campus. For more info, go to bristolcc.edu/ coursesearch and select HST-162, or call 508-678-2811.

Check out the “Fall River Portraits” exhibit of UMass Dartmouth and Diman Regional HS student photography on display at the Staircase Galleries at Fall River’s Government Center through May. If you’re near Newport’s Ballard Park,

don’t miss the 13th Annual Illuminated Garden February 22-24! For info, call 401-619-3377 or go to ballardpark.org.

Spend an afternoon in the galleries at the RISD Museum in Providence! And check out the courses, workshops, and “tours for tots”! For details, call 401-4546500 or visit risdmuseum.org.

Check out the exhibit “Scapes: Placemaking in the 21st Century” at the New Bedford Art Museum/Artworks! through March 11. For info, call 508-9613072 or go to newbedfordart.org.

Stroll through the special exhibits at the Great Fall River Art Association! “Color Me Red” will be on exhibit through February 28. “Maritime” will be exhibited March 5 to April 30. For info, go to greaterfallriverartassociation.org or call 508-673-7212.

Check out the Newport Car Museum in Portsmouth! Sixty-plus vintage cars and driving simulators! For more info, visit newportcarmuseum.org or call 401848-2277.

Gamers, team-builders and mysterysolvers should head for the new “Mass Escape” in downtown New Bedford!

Groups of 4-8 people can work together to prevent a nuclear crisis or solve a murder mystery. For more info, go to MassEscapeRoom.com.

All the world’s a stage

Check out the schedule for Brown University’s Theatre Arts & Performance Studies Department – plan ahead

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Stay active – outdoors!

Southcoast Health and the Buzzards Bay Coalition have joined together to create “Discover Buzzards Bay,” an initiative to promote active outdoor recreation. A series of guided monthly outdoor walks, called “Sunday Strolls,” and an online portal with information about more than 100 public places to walk, cycle, fish, paddle, and cross-country ski can be found at savebuzzardsbay.org/discover.

Take a free “Mindfulness Walk,” on March 17 at the Great Neck Conservation Area in Wareham, or on April 14 at the Tinkhamtown Woodlands in Mattapoisett. For info and directions, go to savebuzzardsbay.org/events.

Go “Snowshoeing on the Shoreline” at Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary in Westport on March 2, 10 to noon, hosted by the Buzzards Bay Coalition and Mass Audubon. For info, fees and directions, go to savebuzzardsbay.org/events.

Explore nature trails or historic landmarks in Fall River – join a walking group! Learn more at walkfallriver.org or call 508-324-2405.

Go on nature walks at the Lloyd Center for the Environment in Dartmouth!

For details, call 508-990-0505 or visit lloydcenter.org.

Wander through the daffodil fields at Parsons Reserve in Dartmouth starting in mid-April! For more info, call 508-9912289 or go to dnrt.org.

Visit the Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown! Check out their after-school programs and EcoTours for all ages, too.

for “Erratics” March 1-4, 8-11. For info and tickets, call 401-862-2838 or go to brown.edu/taps or brown.edu/tickets.

The Attleboro Community Theatre will perform “American Strippers” February 16-18, 23-25, March 2-4. For more info, go to attleborocommunitytheatre.com or call 508-226-8100.

Reserve your tickets now to see a performance of “The Music Man” at Bishop Stang High School in Dartmouth on April 26-28! For more info, call 508-9965602.

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Sunday Stroll: Old Aucoot District, M attapoisett Sunday, A pril 08, 2018, 10:00am - 11:00am

For info, visit normanbirdsanctuary.org or call 401-846-2577.

Take a leisurely winter ramble through rural Westport – go to westportlandtrust.org.

Enjoy the trails, wildlife, and scenery of the Mattapoisett River Reserve – leashed dogs welcome. Hike, fish, picnic, birdwatch, cross-country ski! For more info, go to savebuzzardsbay.org.

Jog along the Harbor Walk, a pedestrian/bike path atop the hurricane dike in New Bedford’s south end. Then explore the Acushnet Sawmills public park and herring weir in the north end! Canoe/ kayak launch, fishing, trails. For more

Bedford! Don’t miss “Birdman” March 25, “Charlotte’s Web” March 25, or “The Things They Carried” April 12! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Nemasket River Productions will present “All My Sons” at The Alley Theatre in Middleborough on April 13-15, 20-22, 2728! For more info, call 1-866-244-0448 or go to nemasketriverproductions.com..

“Barefoot in the Park” will be performed March 16-18, 22-24 at the Marion Arts Center. For info, call 508-748-1266 or go to marionartcenter.org.

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info, visit savebuzzardsbay.org.

If you’re near Newport, stroll through Ballard Park! Don’t miss the 13th Annual Illuminated Garden February 22-24 or the Spring Equinox Hike March 24! For more info, call 401-619-3377 or go to ballardpark.org.

Wander through the urban greenspace of the Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens in New Bedford – learn more at thetrustees.org or call 508-636-4693.

Take a walk through the city’s Buttonwood Park and Zoo! For info, call 508-991-6178 or visit bpzoo.org.

Enjoy a dinner-theatre night out at the Newport Playhouse! “Remember Me?” will be performed through March 25.

“Exit Laughing” will be performed March 29-May 12. For more info, call 401-8487529 or go to newportplayhouse.com.

Mark your calendars for Your Theatre’s production of “Six Degrees of Separation” March 15-18, 22-25 in New Bedford! For a complete schedule, call 508-993-0772 or go to yourtheatre.org.

Head for Trinity Rep to see “Into the Breeches” through February 25. And don’t miss “Othello” February 15 to

March 18. “Native Gardens” will be performed April 5 to May 6. For tickets, call 401-351-4242 or visit trinityrep.com.

Enjoy the new theatre season of The Wilbury Group in Providence. “The Flick” will be performed March 8-24. For more info, visit thewilburygroup.org or call 401-400-7100.

Buy your tickets now for “West Side Story,” performed by the New Bedford Festival Theatre July 20-29 at the Zeiterion! For tickets and info, call 508-9942900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Check out what’s playing at 2nd Story Theatre in Warren! “The Tribute Artist” will be performed through February 18.

“Talley’s Folly” will be performed March 9 to April 8. Call 401-247-4200 or go to 2ndstorytheatre.com.

Classical acts

Don’t miss the South Coast Chamber Music Series – plan ahead for “Chiaroscuro” on March 10 at St. Gabriel’s Church in Marion or on March 11 at St. Peter’s Church in South Dartmouth. For more info, call 508-999-6276 or go to nbsymphony.org.

Reserve your tickets now for the Arts in the Village performances at Goff Memorial Hall in Rehoboth by The Boston Trio on February 24, the Daurov/Myer Duo March 24, or the Haven String Quartet April 28. For more information, go to rehobothantiquarian.org.

Plan ahead for the Tri-County Symphonic Band’s performance of “March Mania!” on March 18 at Tabor Academy in Marion. For info and tickets, go to tricountysymphonicband.org.

Don’t miss the Fall River Symphony’s performance “The Titan” on March 4 at the Jackson Arts Center at Bristol Community College! For info and tickets, go to fallriversymphony.org or call 508-6782241.

Make your reservations for Concerts at the Point in Westport! Don’t miss the performance on February 25 by the Neave Piano Trio or the Jasper String Quartet on April 22. For info, call 508636-0698 or visit concertsatthepoint.org.

The Pilgrim Festival Chorus will present its spring concert “Fern and Forest” on April 7-8 at St. Bonaventure’s Parish in Plymouth. For tickets and info, visit pilgrimfestivalchorus.org.

Check out what’s playing at the Little Theatre of Fall River! “The Bad Seed” will be performed March 15-18 at the Jackson Arts Center at Bristol Community College. For more info, call 508-675-1852 or go to littletheatre.net.

Plan ahead for the Sippican Choral Society’s spring concert “Songfest of Showtunes!” on April 28 at St. Gabriel’s Church in Marion. For details, call 508763-2327 or go to sippicanchoralsociety.org.

South Coast sounds

Mark your calendar for the monthly Paskamansett Concert Series at the Dartmouth Grange Hall. Joanne Doherty will perform on March 10, Jon MacAuliffe on April 14. For more info, visit paskamansettconcertseries.weebly.com or call 401-241-3793.

Find out who’s on stage at the Spire Center for the Performing Arts of Greater Plymouth! For tickets and info, call 508746-4488 or visit spirecenter.org.

Get back to your musical roots at Common Fence Music in Portsmouth!

Don’t miss Anais Mitchell on March 24, Trio Da Kali April 7. For info, call 401683-5085 or go to commonfencemusic.org.

Check out who’s playing at “Live Music at the Bliss” at the Bliss Four Corners Congregational Church in Tiverton!

For info, call 401-624-4113 or visit blissfourcornerschurch.org.

Find out who’s playing at the Stone Church Coffeehouse at the First Congregational Church in Bristol. For info or tickets, call 401-253-4813 or 401-2537288.

If you’re a fan of Americana and roots music, check out “Music in the Gallery” at the Wamsutta Club in New Bedford. For tickets or info, go to brownpapertickets. com/events or contact korolenko8523@ charter.net.

Stay fit – indoors!

Stay in shape and engaged with your community this winter – find out what’s going on at your local YMCA! For schedules at all locations, go to ymcasouthcoast.org.

The newly-expanded Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River has a fabulous lineup. For a complete schedule, visit narrowscenter.com or call 508-324-1926.

Stay fit this winter with Yoga with Laura at the Boys and Girls Club in Wareham! For a schedule and more info, call 508-295-7072 or go to onsetbay.org.

Plan ahead for “Movie Night Pops Concert” performed on March 31 by the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra at the Zeiterion! For info and tickets, visit nbsymphony.org.

Get in shape with low-impact PlioBarre classes at the Fall River Library on Thursday evenings – bring your yoga mat! For more information, visit the library’s Facebook page, call 508-324-2100 or visit fallriverlibrary.org.

Find out what’s going on at the Sandywoods Center for the Arts in Tiverton! Don’t miss the Celtic-band favorite Fellswater on February 17! For more info, go to sandywoodsmusic.com or call 401241-7349.

For our full calendar of events, visit us at coastalmags.com or follow us on Facebook and T witter

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GOOD TIMES

Down with the sickness “The flu, huh?”

Those are words that you can say to which everyone will nod in agreement and say “Hell yes” in response and then engage in long Paul K andarian discussions about it. It’s like the way you could walk into any sports bar around here knowing absolute squat about football and just going “Tom Brady, huh?” and everyone would nod in agreement and say “Hell yes” in response and then engage in discussions longer than the Faux President’s State of Confusiom speech last month and yes, that’s a play on the GOP’s ticket misspelling.

I was just getting over the flu in late January and was one of roughly infinity of Americans who didn’t watch the State of Confusiom because the sight of the orange-topped-you-know-what makes me nauseous and I didn’t need any help there. But watching the news the next day, I couldn’t help but notice: Mike Pence and Paul Ryan look like they’ve been replaced with very real-looking robots. That’s not the fever talking. I mean it.

And then it dawned on me why: it’s because they really are robots, and have been all along – part of a new breed of SuperBots that are born robots, grow up as robots, and enter adulthood and the Republican Party as robots where, as part of the much-decried Alien Invasion of the Great American Southwest in the ‘50s and ‘60s, they were created to one day be part of the intellectual infrastructure that would support The Absolute Dumbest Human to Ever Infest the Oval Office.

They would bolster him, hold him up, make him look good and as far as the latter goes, fail miserably.

One thing I did watch was Rep. Joe Kennedy’s rebuttal after. After realizing he needed to fire his makeup person (that ChapStick smear at the corners of his mouth was more than a little distracting), it dawned on me: this kid’s bright,

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articulate, passionate, compassionate, likable, humble, extremely well spoken, and absolutely engaging. In short, the exact opposite of the guy who gave the State of Confusiom just before.

I also thought how much like Obama he sounded and how much I ached that this kid would run for president, but then realized that many people say a Kennedy will never be president, just as many say a woman will never be president. Me, I always said people born without brains, class, or dignity could never be president, and look where we are. You just never know.

Me, I always said people born without brains, class, or dignity could never be president, and look where we are.

One thing that was a nice touch for our region: Kennedy spoke at Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School in Fall River, a YUUUUUUGE boost for that fine school and the city in which it is based, I was really impressed by his choice of location, and of course his speech. No matter the name was mispronounced “Deh-mun instead of the correct “DYE-mun” by NBC’s Lester Holt, but it would’ve been nice if someone had told him. Just probably not Joe Kennedy’s makeup person.

The next day, everything blew up on Facebook, of course, where everyone’s an expert on everything, including me, with the right extolling The Moron Messiah’s State of Confusiom as proof of the great job he’s doing and the left shaking our collective head with a huge WTF look on our collective faces.

One right-leaning post went further,

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naturally decrying liberal Kennedy’s speech and mocking him for “holding it in a garage in front of a car.” I resisted the urge to correct the poster that it was actually a place of learning but figured that would be lost on him since he’d never been in one.

But I digress. Very much so. The flu will do that to you, which as of this writing I’m just getting over.

A few flu observations: you know that feeling you get knowing that feeling you’re getting is the flu? Don’t ignore it.

I do all the time and figure it’s a cold. It’s not. Call your doctor and maybe get that Z-Pak thing within three days of onset, antibiotics that won’t knock it out but will shorten duration, which is helpful since the full-blown flu can run a full two weeks.

Get a flu shot. I know many are against it for a variety of reasons and sure, it’s a personal choice. But last year I didn’t get one, got the flu, was sick as a dog for a solid week and felt lesser degrees of crappy over the next three. This year I got the shot (knowing there’s roughly a 13-percent shot it would prevent the flu, which ain’t great odds), but still got the damn flu.

However, it was completely gone in 12 days, not a month, and I wasn’t nearly as sick as I’d been last year.

Stay home. No one wants your martyr self in an enclosed workspace spreading your filthy viral germs with every hacking cough. It doesn’t make you brave to come in, it makes you the biggest thing in the office to avoid besides the boss.

And don’t watch anything with the you-know-what giving this year’s State of Confusiom Speech. No need to get more nauseous. The kind he induces will be gone in two years – and the good Mueller willing, maybe a lot sooner.

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

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