M ay/June 2020 · Volume 16 · Number 3
Art from the ashes Social safety Keeping active
Join the chorus the cho horrus
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CONTENTS MAY/JUNE 2020 in every issue
Prime season
4
16
One voice, together
by Sean McCarthy
24
Just keep breathing
by Paul Kandarian
From the publisher
22
In brief by Elizabeth Morse Read
Prime living
6
Arts in the time of COVID by Steven Froias
10
Sweatin’ to the oldies by Michael J. DeCicco
18
Any way the wind blows by Brian J. Lowney
Good times
8
Cooperative arts
by Ann Katzenbach
12
Saving Social Security
by Elizabeth Morse Read
20
Ancient meditations
by Dan Brule
16 · NUMBER 3 M AY/JUNE 2020 · VOLUME
Art from the ashes
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Social safety Keeping active
M ay /J une 2020
On the cover: The COVID-19 novel
coronavirus has left an indelible mark on the world, as well as the South Coast. In these extraordinary times, it is important to remember that we can still be social, even while social distancing. Now more than ever it is important to be a part of your community – while being apart of it. Photo by Steven Froias
Join rus horrus ho he ccho tthe
Keeping our community and staff safe and healthy is our top priority. During these uncertain times, the care you need is just a call or tap away. Get the exceptional care you expect from Southcoast Health right from the comfort and safety of your home with our telehealth appointment options.
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FROM THE PUBLISHER May/June 2020 n Vol. 16 n No. 3 Published by
Coastal Communications Corp. Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Ljiljana Vasiljevic
We all did it: as soon as the CDC told us to stop touching our faces, we’ve never felt a greater need to do so. We soon found out that not touching our faces at all is practically impossible. Every itchy nose now burns with the heat of a thousand suns. So what do you do when you feel that itch? You scratch it on your shoulder and then look around for more hand sanitizer. It’s funny how extraordinary circumstances make us realize what we take for granted. Scratching an itchy nose is of course just a small example – for the foreseeable future, we are all living in the age of social distancing, and our lives have been fundamentally changed. The memories of social events, meals at restaurants, and fun times at our friends’ homes burn in our memories just like that itchy nose. But we remain dedicated to maintaining communal health and a six-foot radius around ourselves at all times.
Editor
Sebastian Clarkin Online editor
Paul Letendre Contributors
Dan Brule, Michael J. DeCicco, Steven Froias, Paul Kandarian, Ann Katzenbach, Brian J. Lowney, Sean McCarthy, Elizabeth Morse Read South Coast Prime Times is published bi-monthly. Copyright ©2020 Coastal Communications Corp. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means, without written permission
But most importantly, we adapt and we find new ways to scratch that itch. We order out more often, we maintain contact with friends and family through the internet and phone (often more frequently than before the pandemic), and take the time afforded to us to discover new hobbies and activities.
from the Publisher. All information contained herein is
But despite all this upheaval, some things never change. For example, reader, you’ve once again found a way to get this magazine in your hands (or on your screen – this and every issue we publish are available for free at coastalmags.com).
error occurs.
And your neighbors are still working to grow the South Coast’s culture and protect its beauty. And we’re still here to tell you all about it. We hope you enjoy.
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
Next issue June 17, 2020
Circulation 25,000
Subscriptions $19.95 per year
M ailing address South Coast Prime Times P.O. Box 3493
Ljiljana Vasiljevic
Fall River, MA 02722
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Phone (508) 677-3000
Website coastalmags.com
E-mail editor@coastalmags.com
facebook.com/thesouthcoastinsider
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PRIME LIVING
Arts in the time of COVID Late in 2019, the New Bedford Cultural Council met to evaluate and award over $100,000 in arts and culture grants for the City of New Bedford. Steven Froias
The grantees were notified as 2020 dawned, and by the end of February, the council was preparing to announce to the public the list of outstanding projects – many of them placemaking initiatives throughout the city as well as school field trips – with a press release. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As Governor Charlie Baker announced an emergency order directing all nonessential businesses to close, following restaurants, museums, schools, and community centers of all kinds, the list of New Bedford Cultural Council projects, with so many celebrating the very act of coming together as community, seemed bittersweet when South Coast residents were advised to stay at home. Still, arts leaders in New Bedford were meeting, virtually, to keep laying plans for 2020.
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“Like many other industries, the economic impact of the pandemic is devastating for creatives,” says New Bedford Creative Strategist Margo Saulnier. “By doing all we can, which currently means communicating opportunities for funding relief and promoting content on social media, our message is that the support for their work and efforts in New Bedford will continue on the other side. More than ever, people realize the value of our artists and cultural organizations to bring people together.” Resources and funding opportunities for arts and culture are available on NewBedfordCreative.org. Saulnier works out of the New Bedford Economic Development Council office, and oversees and coordinates arts and culture initiatives throughout the city. The New Bedford Cultural Council (NBCC) funds programs that promote excellence, access, education, and diversity in the arts, humanities, and
M ay /J une 2020
interpretive sciences to improve the quality of life for New Bedford city residents. It is part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council network, and through the awards touches every arts and culture institution, organization, and group in the city, in addition to numerous individuals. This year, several new projects joined returning projects to create a mosaic of possibility in the city that reflects diverse values. An exhibition of Native American female artists at Groundwork Gallery is new this year, as is a grant to Out On A Limb, a group dedicated to raising awareness about the city’s tree canopy through storytelling. So, too is a grant toward establishing a New Bedford LGBTQ+ Archive. Once again, popular favorites like Reggae on West Beach and the Cape Verdean Recognition Parade received funds. They were joined by other beloved programs such as the New Bedford Art Museum/ Artworks! Teen Arts Internship Program, which share an emphasis on ensuring youth get the opportunity to participate in New Bedford’s creative renaissance.
Social togetherness How the current crisis will affect any of
Spring is here and so are we! the projects is unknown at this time, as are the plans of so many throughout the South Coast region. NBCC co-chair Jessica Bregoli states that, due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) reality, grantees which may need to make necessary changes should not fear losing reimbursement for their projects as long as the council is notified and approves those modifications. “We approve as long as it still fits within MA Cultural Council guidelines,” she notes. Elsewhere in New Bedford, during the first week of Baker’s emergency shutdown order, the Cape Verdean Association of New Bedford held a GoToMeeting to discuss the renovation of their new Cape Verdean Cultural Center on Acushnet Avenue in the North End. Prior to the present crisis, plans were well underway to make some significant improvements to the building, the former Strand Theater, with the Waterfront Historic Area League (WHALE) as a redevelopment partner. Fortunately, it was judged that immediate plans could indeed move forward. The building’s brick facade will be re-pointed as scheduled in April. Then, a massive mural depicting Cape Verde and island musical culture will be hung on the building. The mural is already finished – executed over the past year on 35 four-foot-byeight-foot panels by artist Eden S. Soares and currently stored in the basement of the Co-Creative Center in the city’s downtown. A reception for the mural’s hanging, being organized by the Love The Ave community action group, may have to be rescheduled. But still, it was yet another bright spot and proof that even during
the current crisis, adaptability is key to keeping on track. A lot of ways other arts and culture organizations adapted or are still adapting to events is by making liberal use of live stream platforms through their Facebook and Instagram accounts. Indeed, at press time, AHA! New Bedford was busy coordinating content for its regularly scheduled second-Thursday-of the-month April evening. Director Lee Heald commented that she had gone from “Boomer to Zoomer” at record speed organizing the now-online slate of offerings utilizing the popular video meeting app., Zoom (Keep up with future schedule adjustments at ahanewbedford. org.) The New Bedford Symphony Orchestra immediately launched a series of live-streamed mini-concerts through its Facebook page, too, and the Co-Creative Center has been busy creating its own member-generated content, including podcasts and a new YouTube channel. Learn more about both at nbsymphony. org and cocreativenb.org. To keep informed about all the adjustments that may be necessary to the schedules of arts and culture organizations and groups throughout the area, you can log on to newbedfordcreative.org and follow their Facebook page. Saulnier has informed all creatives that they are welcome to add #NBCreative as a co-host on any online event and help share the news with its followers as we all navigate a changed – and increasingly digital – arts and culture landscape.
S teven F roias is a freelance writer based in New Bedford and is a regular -contributor for The South Coast Insider and South Coast Prime Times. He can be reached at NewBedfordNow@gmail.com.
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GOOD TIMES
C ynthia Packard Studio offers free classes online at cynthiapackard.com
Cooperative
arts
In 1955 few women worked outside the home. Their role in the fabric of American society was to raise children, cook, and clean. In Westport, a few women got together to do decorative painting, an acceptable A nn creative outlet for the era. This group of housewives K atzenbach kept expanding and evolving as other women with a variety of artistic interests joined in. Then, being skilled group organizers, they drew up a charter and a statement of purpose: “to promote interest and activity in the arts and crafts.” They elected officers and wrote their bylaws. At their third meeting on April 25, 1956, a charter was signed by 13 members who called themselves the Westport Art Group (WAG). Sixty-five years later, WAG has over 200 members and owns a building headquarters
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on Drift Road. Artists, both male and female, come from communities up and down
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the south shore. Today, with a more enlightened perspective, we are not surprised that
women know how to make all kinds of things happen. The growth of a nonprofit organization is measured in gradual accomplishments. For WAG, the most impressive of these milestones was getting a permanent home. In the early years, the enthusiastic group of artists found that having meetings and exhibitions in local schools and private homes was a hassle. They went in search of a home and found an empty lot on Drift Road that seemed ideal. So Dorothy Gifford, one of the original group, asked Betty Pratt Yeomans if she would be willing to sell the lot that was next to her
Under normal circumstances, a
smorgasbord of workshops and lectures for all ages is offered through the year summer home. Instead of selling, Yeomans donated the land. That sparked a huge fundraising effort that resulted in one small building and then some years later, a second wing. Last spring, members put a fresh coat of paint on the walls. Almost all the work that gets done at WAG is done by member volunteers.
Strokes of brilliance The building is a busy place (although as I write this it is shuttered because of the corona virus). Under normal circumstances, a smorgasbord of workshops and lectures for all ages is offered through the year. Children can come and make beautiful felt bowls or sculpt with clay or make mono-prints or books. Adults may choose to learn to play the ukulele or paint or draw using a variety of media. There are figure drawing classes twice a week with easels on site and a model. A poetry group meets twice a month. During the warm months there are trips to scenic locations for plein-air painting. The possibilities for delving into art are limited only by the determination and willingness of members to plan and execute. There is a separate space for exhibitions with state-of-theart sliding hooks for various sized artwork that save the walls from multiple nail holes and the track lighting brings all the art to life. The members who hang these shows have been working together for
years and bring their good judgement and experience to the job. During the year there are juried and non-juried shows with a big holiday fair at the beginning of December. WAG has also set up a scholarship fund that awards financial help to high school seniors. Students attending Westport High School, Dartmouth High School, Tiverton High School and the children or grandchildren of Westport Art Group members who intend to pursue a higher degree in Visual Art are eligible to apply. WAG offers two $1,500 scholarships annually. There is a strong sense of community among the members of WAG. There are artists with years of experience making crafts or painting who are happy to share their knowledge with artists who are interested in improving. “We’re all in this together,” was a refrain I heard several times when I visited. The results of this long, cohesive group endeavour can be seen in the clean, modern building and the long list of events and classes they offer. New members are always welcome. Find out more on their website: westportartgroup.com.
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A nn K atzenbach has written for newspapers and magazines on art, travel, politics, and people. She has recently returned to the Southcoast after many years of nomadic life.
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PRIME LIVING
Sweatin’ to the
oldies COA director Cheryl R andall-Mach and fitness center monitor A ndrea Meunier in the Rochester fitness room
Michael J. DeCicco
Nowadays seniors centers aren’t just community centers for the elderly. All around the South Coast, these centers are places for the elder population to exercise, to work on their core body strength and balance, and even have time for weights and rowing machines.
While such programs are prominent in senior South Coast communities large and small, Rochester’s Council on Aging senior center is the premiere place for the older crowd looking to work out, as it boasts a fully-equipped fitness room that opened there in September of 2015. Twelve pieces of equipment that can be used to gently exercise and strengthen arms, back, legs, and knees, are available for fitness room members five days a week, three hours a day. The council acquired the equipment from the Curves for Women fitness center that closed in Fairhaven a few years ago, and the pieces were stored at the town highway barn until the council could create a plan to use it. Using funds donated by the families of past members who were exercise enthusiasts, the council com-
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bined a small activity room and office at the senior center by tearing down the wall that separated them. The Rochester COA fitness room is open to residents of Rochester and surrounding towns who pay the $10-a-month program fee, sign a participants’ agreement, and
“
If you can stay active in your community, the healthier you’ll stay
submit a physician’s authorization form that checks off what the member is and is not allowed to do for exercise.
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Its fitness monitor, Andrea Meunier, said there is no real age limit to who can join. She makes sure each new member gets an orientation tour of the equipment before their first session. She described most of the equipment as low impact exercise machines. She said she’s seen between 20 and 50 members take advantage of the fitness room per month. She’s happy it’s a popular attraction. “Your health determines your activity level. If you can stay active in your community, the healthier you’ll stay. And it’s what our doctors tell us all to do.” Council On Aging Director Cheryl Randall-Mach said members also like the program because it’s a way to socialize, especially during the region’s long, dark winter days when they can’t exercise by walking. Meunier noted the program’s oldest member is 91 and does most of the equipment in the room each time he’s there very faithfully. “We are always happy to see him,” she said. Hannah Milhench, 80, said she has frequented the fitness room ever since it opened over four years ago. “I like
this place,” she explained. “They are all friendly and warm here. When I get out of bed, I cannot move. After 45-50 minutes here, I feel good.” For more information on the Rochester center and its other exercise programs, call 508-763-8723. Nearby, Marion’s Benjamin D. Cushing Community Center at 465 Mill Street offers an even larger space for weekly senior exercising programs, such as free Strength and Conditioning, Zumba ($5), and YMCA-directed Group Fitness ($35 for 10 weeks; YMCA members free). The Marion center opened in July 2017 after the town’s fall 2016 acquisition of the 6,000-square-foot former VFW post there. Today, 15 to 20 seniors attend
“
it keeps them active, and it’s a chance to socialize and make friends and bring their friends
each weekly Strength and Conditioning program held there, Council On Aging director Karen Gregory said. And about a dozen attend each YMCA-sponsored Group Fitness session. “They’re always well-attended,” she said. There is no attendee age limit, she added. “Some attendees are into their 80s. All skill levels come. There’s something for everyone.” Marion seniors, she said, offer her nothing but praise for what the center offers them. “They say to me they like that it keeps them active, and it’s a chance to socialize and make friends and bring their friends.” For more information on the Marion center, call 508-748-3570. Other area senior centers with similar exercise programs include New Bedford (call 508-961-3136) and Mattapoisett (call 508-758-4110).
M ichael J. D e C icco has worked as a writer for over 30 years. He is also the author of two award-winning young adult novels, Kaurlin’s Disciples and The Kid Mobster. He lives with his wife Cynthia in New Bedford.
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GOOD TIMES
Saving Social Security You’ve heard the news about recent cuts to food stamps, Medicaid, and disease-prevention programs – are cuts to Medicare and Social Security benefits next? If the Trump administration’s 2020 budget proposals Eliz abeth are any indication, it’s definitely something to worry Morse Read about. The 2017 tax cuts created a massive deficit that needs to be filled – and slashing entitlement programs are being considered as a way to reverse the effects of the tax cuts. Social Security has long been called the “third rail of politics” – you touch it, you die. But despite his campaign promises before the 2016 election “not to touch Social Security,” Donald Trump has hinted that he may indeed do that in his second term as a way to address the ballooning federal budget deficits. So keep that in mind when you vote in this year’s elections. The federal budget deficit has ballooned to almost a trillion dollars (that’s nine zeros, folks), nearly double what it
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was three years ago, and most people just yawn and pull
their retirement years over the past decade. Slow income
Sixty-four million Americans rely on Social Security benefits, and that number will rise to 74 million by 2030 up the covers, pretending it doesn’t have anything to do with them. But it does.
A merica’s safety net Americans have found it harder and harder to save for
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growth, unpaid caregiving for children or ailing parents, temporary unemployment after the Great Recession and high healthcare costs have made saving for a
retirement “nest egg” virtually impossible. Maximizing and protecting our future Social Security benefits is critical to preventing retirement insecurity. Sixty-four million Americans rely on Social Security benefits, and that number will rise to 74 million by 2030. Of those 64 million people, more than a third are kept out of poverty solely because of those monthly payments. But according to news reports and government studies, the Social Security trust fund is expected to run out of money in 2036. (The situation for Medicare is even worse – its funds are due to evaporate by 2026.) Women especially are at high risk of financial insecurity when they reach retirement age, due to a number of factors such as lost-income years spent raising children or caring for elderly
South Coast Social Security Offices Avoid being put on hold when calling the national number – call your local Social Security office first!
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parents, low-income wage history, divorce, or widowhood. The average monthly benefit is just $1,431. But under current law, Social Security will need to slash benefits by 20% in 2035, the equivalent of cutting almost $300 from monthly benefits. Congress needs to act soon to prevent this catastrophe. The alternative is for the US government to either borrow more money (increasing the already terrifyingly high national debt to $42 trillion) or else jack up FICA payroll taxes by more than 25%. Congress has it within its powers to protect – and expand – the Social Security safety net, if only they would agree to “play well with others.”
Don’t blame the
baby boomers How did this looming disaster happen? It’s not just that the huge baby boomer generation has started retiring, putting increased pressure on the worker-tobeneficiary ratio. A significant demographic change is that we’re just living longer than we did 80 years ago when the Social Security program was initiated. Social Security was intended to be relied on for a few years – not multiple decades – after retirement.
Another complicating factor is income inequality – the 12.4% FICA payroll tax revenue currently earmarked for entitlement programs only affects income up to $137,700, exempting all income/wages above that from taxation. Yet between 1983 and 2016, the income exempted for taxation mushroomed from $300 billion to $1.2 trillion – a massive loss of potential revenue for Social Security. Not only that, but US birth rates are at an all-time low, and immigration to the US has declined, resulting in fewer workers to pay those payroll taxes. The result is that Social Security will soon be paying out more money than it brings in. The current payout schedule, including cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) just isn’t sustainable at this rate. According to a Social Security Trustees report, these net-cash outflows will wipe out Social Security’s $2.9 trillion asset reserves by 2035.
How can we save Social Security? The partisan polarization in Congress is preventing any meaningful fix, even though both sides have reasonable plans that could shore up the Social Security system – especially if they could
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Continued from previous page hammer out a compromise that incorporates elements of both party’s proposed solutions. Democrats want to eliminate the payroll tax cap of $137,700 – more than 90% of American workers wouldn’t see any difference in their paychecks. The benefit of this approach is that it would immediately boost revenues. In addition, broadening the tax base to include capital income would greatly improve Social Security’s finances. Republicans want to gradually raise the full retirement age, which would reduce long-term outlays. Future retirees would have to wait longer to collect 100% of their benefits, or else accept a permanent reduction in their monthly benefits if they claim before their full retirement age (FRA). Both scenarios would reduce individuals’ lifetime payouts. Some Democrat presidential candidates wanted to introduce minimum benefits to help low-income recipients get higher monthly payments. Revising how annual cost-of-living adjustments are calculated, to better reflect what seniors’ actual costs-of-living are (especially healthcare expenses), is another Social Security reform under consideration.
Let your voice be heard! Voting is not the only way you can influence the future of Social Security – contact your Congressional delegation and urge them to support legislation that will preserve – and expand – America’s safety net! In Southeastern Massachusetts: Sen. Edward Markey 202-224-2742 Sen. Elizabeth Warren 202-224-4543 Rep. William Keating 202-225-3111 Rep. Joseph Kennedy 202-225-5931 In Rhode Island: Sen. Jack Reed 202-224-4642 Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse 202-224-2921 Rep. David Cicilline 202-225-4911 Rep. Jim Langevin 202-225-2735
Rhode Island is one of the 13 states that do, so choose your retirement dream home with that in mind. You can maximize your monthly benefits if you postpone claiming your retirement benefits until you turn 70. If your full retirement age (FRA) is 66 (or 67 if you
Massachusetts does not tax Social Security benefits; however, Rhode Island is one of the 13 states that do, so choose your retirement dream home with that in mind
Maximizing your
own benefits Most people don’t realize it, but more than half of Americans pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, depending on which state they live in. If your combined annual income is between $25,000 and $34,000, up to half of your Social Security benefits may be taxable, and for incomes over $34,000, up to 85% may be taxable. Massachusetts does not tax Social Security benefits; however,
14
your own work record as early as your 62nd birthday or, if you’re applying for survivor benefits on the record of a deceased spouse, you can file a claim when you’re 60 years old. If you’re disabled or caring for a deceased spouse’s under16 or disabled child, you can claim as early as age 50.
were born in 1960 or later), you earn credits equivalent to 8% for each year you wait – in other words, if your FRA is 67, you’ll increase your monthly benefits by 24% if you hold off claiming benefits until you’re 70. And if you’re already claiming monthly benefits, you can suspend them until you’re 70 to earn some of those credits. You can claim partial Social Security monthly benefits on
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If you’re receiving Social Security benefits, you’re still working, and you’re younger than your full retirement age, your earnings will affect your monthly benefit payments. In 2020, the Social Security Administration will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn over $18,240. If you were born between 1943 and 1954, your full retirement age (FRA) is 66 in 2020, and you’re able to earn
$48,600 before the Social Security Administration will start deducting $1 for every $3 earned over that amount. The good news is that if you’ve reached your FRA, there’s no limit or penalty on your earnings for the entire year. You can better manage your future finances by going to socialsecurity.gov/myaccount and setting up your own “my Social Security” account. With it, you can check your earnings history, confirm how many credits you need to retire, see estimates of future benefits while you’re still working or manage your monthly benefits once you start receiving them. You can also check the status of a claim or appeal, change your name, request a replacement Social Security card, and get an instant benefit verification letter. In addition, you can set up or change direct deposit, change your address and get a Social Security 1099 form (SSA-1099). No more standing in line at the Social Security office for routine transactions! Many Social Security services are also available by calling your nearest Social Security office [see sidebar] or the Social Security Administration’s national toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778 for the hearing-impaired. So pull your head out from under those covers and pay attention to what’s happening in this year’s elections – your future financial security will depend upon your vote!
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.
Elder Care resources
When it comes to elder care, there are now more options available than ever before. Whatever your needs or desires, one of these locations or services is sure to exceed your expectations.
The Oaks 4525 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford 508-998-7807 | theoaksma.com
Clifton Healthcare Campus 500 Wilbur Avenue, Somerset 508-675-7589
Beautifully situated in a wooded area in New Bedford, The Oaks has a welcoming, homelike atmosphere. Within 15 minutes of New Bedford Rehabilitation
Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital, this nursing home is a perfect location for short-term rehabilitation, long-term care and post-operative recovery.
Diocesan Health Facilities 368 North Main Street, Fall River 508-679-8154 | dhfo.org
Preferred Residential Network 218 Shove Street, Fall River 508-769-6185 | prnafc.com
There’s no place like home, right? Well Happier in my Home thinks so, and they’re looking to help folks who agree. This independent home care agency focuses on safety and nutrition, and provides unique care plans to their clients designed around their individual needs so that they can be comfortable where they’re most comfortable.
Offering both short-term rehab and longterm care, Clifton Rehabilitative Nursing Center is certified by both Medicare and Medicaid. The facility offers state-of-theart rehab equipment and therapy services along with skilled nursing care, and, most importantly, a friendly atmosphere and staff. Clifton’s rehab center is both accredited 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.
Putting the heart and soul in caring, Diocesan Health Facilities, sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Fall River, delivers state-of the-art healthcare (and spiritual care) across five Skilled Nursing and Rehab facilities throughout the South Coast. Diocesan Health understands that social and spiritual care is just as important as medical care. Their residents are encouraged to be social, active, mindful, and independent. Through a collaboration with residents, their physicians, and their families, they provide top-tier care for all who come through their doors. Locations are: Our Lady’s Haven in Fairhaven, Madonna Manor in North Attleboro, Marian Manor in Taunton, Sacred Heart Home in New Bedford, and Catholic Memorial Home in Fall River.
Preferred Residential Network (PRN) is currently the only agency with a 4 year accreditation (COA) in MA who exclusively offers adult foster care services. PRN allows families to stay together by providing stipends to those who dedicate their time to assisting family members who need help with daily activities like bathing, grooming, or eating. Visit prnafc. com to determine if you qualify for an additional $600 to $1,500 a month for something you may already be doing! PRN offers care oversight and a generous caregiver stipend to caregivers who care for MassHealth recipients enabling caregivers to stay home and care for loved ones allowing them to remain in the comfort of their homes.
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PRIME SEASON
One voice, together The human voice can do amazing things – especially when it’s speaking in the universal language of music. This is perhaps most apparent with Sean chorale music – a style McCarthy of performance that is ultimately about creating togetherness. The focus becomes the variety of harmony and unity amongst the singers in the ensemble and the enjoyment that the performers share with an audience. Whether they are presenting Johann Sebastian Bach or an Elton John medley, chorale members invest great time and energy into learning, rehearsing, and eventually performing their brand of captivating sounds. A majority of the
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chorus members are volunteers inspired by their love for singing. “A chorus is a group of people doing something together,” says John Graef, President of the Greater New Bedford Choral Society. “For any given singer the satisfaction comes with experiencing the music with other people. There’s a great pleasure with that. The singers are able to create something by doing it together. This music is about harmony. “Back when composers composed, they did so with the idea of creating sounds that go together in a musical context. You have to be able to sing your part when someone else is singing their part with
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another set of notes. You also have to be able to start and stop together. It requires discipline and there’s a pleasure that comes from getting it right.” Graef has advice for what to listen for at your first chorale performance. “You hear the different sections – the altos, sopranos, tenors and bass – and enjoy the sound that’s being produced by them. What you want to experience is the sense of togetherness coming from the singers.” It’s not a sensation felt only by the audience. “Chorale music is a feel-good experience for all involved,” says David Imhoff, President of the South Coast Community Chorale, based in Fall River. “The audiences say that they can they can see the joy and excitement on our faces while we’re singing. If we have a soloist
singing that’s when you get goosebumps and heads turning – they sound flawless. It all comes together and sounds beautiful. The audience is always appreciative.”
Singing out The GTCC received a high-profile opportunity recently when they performed at Trinity Repertory Company’s “A
Celebrating its 40th season, the organization is perennially responsible for using their talents to help those less fortunate When it comes to the efforts of the Greater Tiverton Community Chorus, people appreciate the music even if they are not present for the performances. Celebrating its 40th season, the organization is perennially responsible for using their talents to help those less fortunate. The GTCC has raised funds for numerous people in need including a two-year old boy in need of a liver transplant, and helping to provide a special wheelchair for the son of a chorus member. They have also teamed with The Wish Come True Foundation for terminally ill children and the Newport County Women’s Resource Center that supports battered women and their families. In its 2009/2010 season they raised funds to supply pianos for the Westport and Tiverton public schools. In the spring of 2014 their concerts earned funds for two organizations that work to improve the nature of water in the area – the Watershed Alliance and the Nature Conservancy in Rhode Island and Westport. They have also contributed financially to the construction of Tiverton’s new public library and performed at its dedication ceremony. In May of 2018, the GTCC raised more than $4,000 with their spring concerts to assist with disaster relief for the citizens of Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.
Christmas Carol” this past December. Also in the spirit of giving back, each year the South Coast Community Chorale offers a pair of music-related scholarships – The Isabel White Memorial Scholarship for a resident of the Fall River area entering a degree program in music at an accredited college or university, and the Karen K. Miller Memorial Scholarship for any member or family member of the SCC Chorale who will be pursuing a degree in music from an institution of higher education. Area chorale concerts are traditionally held in May and December. The SCC Chorale traditionally presents their spring concerts at The Good Shepherd Parish in Fall River, and St. Jude the Apostle’s in Taunton. “Most chorale singers want to perform as well as do something for the community, and this is a way of doing both,” says Simone Pasquariello, Publicity Director for the GTCC. “There’s a very nice feeling at the end of a concert when people are applauding for something you’ve worked really hard to do.” “It’s a commitment but it’s something we all enjoy doing,” Imhoff says. “The power of music is beyond comprehension.”
“Most chorale singers want to perform as well as do something for the community, and this is a way of doing both”
Sean McCarthy has been a freelance journalist for 27 years. He lives in New Bedford.
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PRIME LIVING
Any way
the wind blows
Brian J. Lowney
When David Ferro began working for a friend selling sheds and weathervanes almost 30 years ago, little did he realize that one day he’d become of one of world’s foremost creators of exquisite copper architectural ornaments that homeowners and professionals are proud to adorn their roofs.
The Bristol resident, who studied at the Rhode Island School Design and pursued classes in blacksmithing, painting, stained glass, and drawing, started creating weathervanes in 1990 and opened his studio in the Cutler Mills in 2010. In addition to making weathervanes, Ferro and his two-member staff also repair and specialize in the restoration of the historical pieces. “I start by working with the client to create a design specific to their vision of the weathervane,” the artist begins. “My knowledge directs how the piece is balanced for weight and wind resistance.” Ferro adds that once he has a working drawing, the piece is started by transferring the full-size design to a copper sheet. Strategic parts of the
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design are cut from the sheet by hand. An array of different hammers and surfaces are used to stretch and texture the copper into shape. “Each piece is hand-sculpted without the use of molds,” Ferro continues. “The finished parts are then hand-soldered together to complete the form.” According to Ferro, he’s designed and created weather-
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vanes that have been shipped across the globe. Most are common designs but recently the studio created a four-foot replica of the HMS Bounty to top the cupola on the building in England where the original ship was built. “I also made a stylized rooster for the editor of a prominent newspaper in Istanbul, Turkey,” Ferro notes, adding that the studio has also created weathervanes for Disney World and Universal Studios. “A couple of years ago we were involved in the restoration of an entire historic ranch in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania where we re-created nine historic weathervanes and a dozen finials for the buildings there,” he shares. According to Ferro, some of the most popular designs include several types of boats, animals, aquatic-themed weathervanes, horses, cats, trucks and airplanes, plants and insects, sports and culture, and dogs. “We create more than 40 breeds, ranging from Labradors and Golden Retrievers to Giant schnauzers, Gordon Setters, and English Bulldogs,” he emphasizes, adding that he recently created a weathervane depicting a Norwich Terrier that
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Jason Ferro & Copper, Jon Vieira, David Ferro, Kit McCaughey, T yler Paquette
is four custom weathervanes created for a client. “The trend is running dogs,” he says.
Tailwinds Dartmouth resident Jon Vieira reached out to Ferro about 10 years ago when the talented artist and musician learned that Ferro was searching for an apprentice. “The learning curve was really large, and it came with much frustration at first, but
weathervane that I made. You can tell that I have a fascination with wings.” Vieira adds, “When you purchase a weathervane from us, whether through our catalog, or if you work on a custom design with us, you’re getting a one-ofa-kind piece. Let’s say you pick from our vast catalog – you’re still getting something created free-hand, so it’s not mass produced in a mold, or stamped out in a factory. We are an art studio first, so
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We are an art studio first, so every piece that is made here is very time consuming, and we’re extremely picky with our standard of quality once I started completing these pieces, I fell more and more in love with how I could manipulate this flat copper sheet into whatever shapes I wanted,” Vieira shares. “That feeling has never gone away, and I don’t have any plans to stop, as I’d consider myself blessed to make a living doing this until I retire.” During his prodigious career, Vieira has created many animal weathervanes, including ospreys, wolves, eagles, foxes, and horses. “I’ve made all kinds of sculptures of them from simple silhouettes, to fully three-dimensional pieces, which are all free hand sculpted, and not made from molds,” Vieira says. “Birds are my absolute favorite animals to make. Something about their grace and being a weathervane, they fit right at home, way up there! If I could pick only a couple favorites, it would absolutely be a fully 3-D mother and baby owl, and a pegasus
every piece that is made here is very time consuming, and we’re extremely picky with our standard of quality. Like any art that’s created by hand, you’re getting something that’s engineered to last, always to be one-of-a-kind, and which will hopefully grow in value through the years. The studio’s newest employee, Michael Barnes, has enjoyed working as an artist and tattoo artist for several years. “I love it,” he says of his new position. “This is one of the best things that has happened to me.” For more information, visit their website at ferroweathervanes.com or email ferrovanes@gmail.com.
B rian J. L owney is a freelance writer based in Swansea. He is the author of “Unconditional Love: Pet Tales to Warm the Heart”, which is available in local bookstores.
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GOOD TIMES
To navigate these difficult times, we need to be especially conscious and aware, relaxed and calm, as well as energized and resilient.
Ancient meditations by D an B rule
If ever there was a time to pause and take a breath, this is it! In fact, life seems to be forcing us all to pause and to take a breath whether we want to or not. Practically everyone on the planet is affected. We are all in this together: one world. Viruses don’t discriminate and they don’t respect borders. COVID-19 is a great equalizer! And maybe it ain’t so bad that mass consumerism takes a pause either, or that many people have no choice but to unhook from the rat race. Maybe we can use this time as an opportunity to focus on what’s really important. Many people are always talking about how they don’t have enough time to exercise or read or meditate or spend quality time with loved ones. Now, they have all the time in the world. No excuse! Let’s use this time wisely. 20
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Many people know that I am a yogi. I was initiated and given the name Guchu Ram Singh in August of 1980 by the legendary Haidakhan Babaji. He is known as the Immortal Yogi Christ of India and is written about in the classic book, Autobiography of a Yogi. He was Pramahansa Yogananda’s guru’s guru’s guru. And so, I am blessed to be part of an ancient living lineage. I’m a bonafide, card-carrying practicing yogi even though I no longer shave my head and I haven’t worn robes or carried prayer beads around with me for many years. You could say I am a western yogi, or a yogi in disguise. I am definitely a rebellious yogi – innovative, creative, unconventional, and often irreverent. I believe we shouldn’t be putting new wine in old bottles… or is it old wine in new bottles? Anyway, we live in uniquely new times, so we need new and unique methods and techniques. I have never been able to sit in the full lotus position and I have no intention of ever mastering that pose or any of the other pretzel positions. My focus has
always been on the essence, the ultimate aim, and the original purpose of yoga. I know too many people who have practiced hatha yoga for many years, and they can get into a hundred difficult and complicated poses. I have to admit they are very flexible, they have great posture and they look really good in stretch pants and tight shirts, but their consciousness hasn’t evolved one iota, and they are no closer to enlightenment, liberation, self-realization, or God for that matter, than they were when they rolled out their yoga mat for the first time. That being said, it’s a good idea to keep your back straight or to imagine lengthening your spine while you breathe. And there are some ancient pranayama practices that deserve our attention and respect because they are simple yet powerful, they are tried and true. They have remarkable benefits. We are all living through a very challenging time. You could call it a global health crisis or even a spiritual crisis. To navigate these difficult times, we need to be especially conscious and aware, relaxed and calm, as well as energized and resilient. In other words, it’s a good time to practice breathwork! In times like these, it’s always a good idea focus on the basics of breathwork. And so, I invite you to practice six of my favorite pranayama exercises. They each have their own ancient Sanskrit name, but what you call them is nowhere near as important as the health benefits they bring. If you want to be healthy and strong, clear and calm, you will want to master the following yogic breathing exercises:
are the keys. This practice has a calming effect on your heart rate and for many it is a good way to deal with stress, confusion, anxiety, and panic attacks.
Sama Vritti Pranayama is a very simple practice. Make your inhales and your exhales equal in length. For example, breathe in for a count of 4 and breathe out for a count of 4. Or practice a 3-3, or a 5-5, or a 6-6 count. Start with a pattern you can comfortably manage. Slow and relaxed, smooth and steady
K apalabhati Pranayama is also called the “breath of fire.” It’s a great way to clean and charge your respiratory system, your nervous system, your cardio-vascular system, as well as your immune system. It’s perfect for warding off mental fogginess, general fatigue, as well as physical illness. Sit up straight.
Ujjayi Pranayama involves contracting your throat a bit as you breathe in and out to create a scratchy sound, just this side of snoring. I call it the Darth Vader breath. It also reminds me of the sound you get when you put a large seashell close to your ear. This practice helps you to focus on breathing and it also stimulates the vagus nerve. Some people use it to help manage their emotions.
Nadi Shodhana is what you might call alternate-nostril breathing. Start by breathing out through one nostril while blocking the other, then breathing in through the other while blocking the one. Alternately closing and opening each nostril using your thumb and ring finger of either hand. Keep switching back and forth like this for about five minutes, or as long as comfortable to fuel, balance, and harmonize your mind and body, your left and right brain.
Breathe through the nose. Contract your belly to quickly and forcefully exhale a short burst of breath and let the inhale be quick and reflexive. Breathe as fast as you can comfortably manage. You only need to do it for a minute or two to feel the powerful benefits.
Savitri Pranayama is very similar to what is called “box breathing.” It is used to focus the mind and body and to balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. Breathe in, hold, breathe out, hold. Use a 3-3-3-3 count, a 4-4-4-4 count, or a 5-5-5-5 count. Practice for about five minutes to trigger the health benefits. This technique helps build lung capacity and it can relieve stress. It is used by elite military forces, first responders and corporate executives to prepare for important or stressful events or activities.
Mahat Yoga Pranayama is what you might call the full yogic breath. The idea is to smoothly fill all three breathing spaces, starting with the lower space (from the perineum to the belly button), then the middle space (from the belly button to the nipple line), then the upper space, from the nipple line to the chin). It’s like filling a glass of water: it fills from the bottom up. This exercise helps develop great breath control and it has many fantastic health benefits. Dan B rule is a renowned pioneer in the field of Breathwork and one of the originators of “Breath Therapy.” For more techniques and information, read “Just Breathe” (available through Amazon), or visit breathmastery.com, where you can learn about group classes and individual coaching sessions.
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For a complete
calendar of events, visit coastalmags.com
E xtra! E xtra!
In brief… Springtime is in full bloom! A Note to Readers: Due to the coronavirus, many venues and events are being closed, cancelled or postponed. Call ahead before making your plans. Stay up-to-date with local, Eliz abeth Morse Read state and federal developments related to the coronavirus outbreak by going to coronavirus. gov or, in Massachusetts, go to mass.gov/2019coronavirus or call 2-1-1. In Rhode Island, call 401-222-8022 or go to health.ri.gov/diseases/ncov2019. Food & festivals!
Foodies! Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for “Heated: An Evening with Chef Mark Bittman” on May 30! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org. Plan ahead for the 36th Annual Black Ships Festival in Bristol and Newport June 12-15! Three days of Japanese arts, crafts, food, taiko drums and martial arts at Independence Park! For details, visit blackshipsfestival.com or call 401-846-2720.
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Plan ahead for the free 4th Annual Waterfront Arts and Music Festival at Heritage State Park in Fall River on June 20! Music, crafts, food and fun! And don’t miss the Day of Portugal Weekend June 18-21 at the Gates of the City! For more info, visit creativeartsnetwork.org. Mark your calendar for the 33rd Annual Assonet Strawberry Festival at the bandstand on June 21! Free family fun, food, crafts and music! For more info, go to tuesdayclubofassonet.org.
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On Saturdays, visit the Aquidneck Growers Farmers Market at the Newport Vineyards in Middletown year-‘round! Cash, credit card, SNAP/ EBT, WIC and senior coupons accepted. For more info, call 401-848-5161 or go to newportvineyards.com or farmfreshri.org. Plan ahead for mobile farm stands throughout the city and the outdoor farmers markets at Clasky Common Park, Brooklawn Park and Custom House Square! For dates, locations and more info, go to coastalfoodshed.org. Mark your calendar for the 7th Annual Wareham Oyster Festival on May 24! For details, visit warehamoyster.com.
Flower power
Plan ahead for “Coastal Gardens of Little Compton,” a self-guided tour of 7 private gardens on June 27. Tickets on sale May 15 at the Little Compton Community Center and Partners Store in Westport. For more information, go to littlecomptongardenclub.org. Mark your calendar for the Newport Flower Show’s “Voices in the Garden” at Rosecliff on June 19-21! For details, visit
newportmansons.org or call 401-847-1000. Register early for the “Secret Garden Tours” of Newport’s historic properties on June 12-14! For details, call 401-4397253 or visit secretgardentours.org.
Mark your calendar for the Newport Bermuda Race starting June 19! For info, go to bermudarace.com.
E xplore the outdoors
Mark your calendars now for the 9th Annual New Bedford Jazz Fest on Pier 3 on June 13! For more info, call 508-9930772 or go to newbedfordjazzfest.com.
Southcoast Health and the Buzzards Bay Coalition have created “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, bird-watch, kayak/ canoe, fish or cross-country ski, can be found at savebuzzardsbay.org/discover – and check out thetrustees.org and massaudubon.org.
Tickets are on sale now for the Summer Concert Series at Westport Rivers & Winery starting June 12! For details, go to westportrivers.com.
Find out what’s happening at the Lloyd Center for the Environment in Dartmouth! Go to lloydcenter.org for information.
Head for Running Brook Vineyards in Dartmouth for free live music every weekend year-round! For more info go to runningbrookwine.com/entertainment or call 508-985-1998.
Get in touch with nature at the Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown! For details, call 401-846-2577 or go to normanbirdsanctuary.org.
Mark your calendar for the Annual Garden & Herb Festival on May 25 at Tiverton Four Corners! For more info, visit tivertonfourcorners.com.
South Coast sounds
Remember Our Heroes! Don’t miss Fairhaven’s Memorial Day Parade on May 25! For info, go to fairhaventours.com or call 508-979-4085.
Remember our veterans
Journey through time and discover a sailor’s life at Battleship Cove, America’s Fleet Museum (508-678-1000 or battleshipcove.org) in Fall River - or explore the Maritime Museum (508-6743533 or battleshipcove.org/maritimemuseum). Don’t miss the Memorial Day Weekend events May 23-25! Don’t miss the Memorial Day Parade in Plymouth on May 30! For details, go to seeplymouth.com.
Off to the races
Register now for Fairhaven’s annual Fathers’ Day 10K and 5K Road Race on June 21! For more info, call 508-979-4085 or go to fairhaventours.com. Sign up now for the 2020 Harvest Triathlon in Wareham on June 13! For info, go to maxperformanceonline.com. Mark your calendar for the free Buzzards Bay Swim Open Water Clinics and Event Orientations at Fort Phoenix in Fairhaven on June 13 and June 20! For details, go to savebuzzardsbay.org/ discover/events.
Sign up for the free Wareham Birding Series events at Lyman Preserve in Plymouth! For more info, go to savebuzzardsbay.org/discover/events. Explore the trails and properties of the Sippican Land Trust in Marion! For more info, go to sippicanlandtrust.org. Get a glimpse of snowy owls and other migratory birds at the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge! For more info, call 401-619-2680 or visit fws.gov/ sachuestpoint. Take a walk through the Acushnet Sawmills public park and herring weir! Canoe/kayak launch, fishing, trails. For info, visit savebuzzardsbay.org/discover. Wander through the daffodils at Parsons Reserve or take a stroll through Paskamansett Woods, nature reserves operated by the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust. For info, visit dnrt.org. Explore the outdoors at the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge in Seekonk, operated by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island! For more info, call 401-949-5454 or visit asri.org. Explore the trails, wildlife and scenery of the Mattapoisett River Reserve – leashed dogs welcome. Hike or bird-watch! Go to savebuzzardsbay.org for more information.
Sharing the bounty…
The Salvation Army is always willing to accept bagged/boxed donations – clothing, books, furniture and housewares. To schedule a free pick-up, go to satruck.org/pickup. Pet Food Aid collects pet food and pet supplies and distributes them to food banks and senior centers throughout Bristol County MA. Volunteers and donations gratefully accepted. For more info, visit petfoodaid.org or call 774-204-5227. My Brother’s Keeper of Dartmouth and Easton is looking for volunteers and gently-used residential furniture for South Coast families in need. Free pick up. Visit mybrotherskeeper.org or call 774-305-4577.
For more information…
To find out what’s happening in greater Fall River, check out the online events calendars at creativeartsnetwork. org, welovefallriver.com or ahafallriver. com or call 508-294-5344. To plan your visit to the New Bedford area, check out destinationnewbedford. org, ahanewbedford.org, downtownnb. org, or newbedfordguide.com. Check out what’s going on around Newport, go to visitrhodeisland.com, newportmansions.org, newportrestoration.org, newporthistory. org or riwaterfrontevents.com. To plan your activities in the Wareham area, go to warehamvillage.org. or onsetbay.org.
Please note all
times and locations listed are subject to change. use the contact information provided above to confirm details with event managers before planning your activities.
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PRIME SEASON
Just keep breathing As I write this, we’re in the muddling midst of a pandemic, the coronavirus, people are hunkering down, self-isolated, quarantining. No doubt Paul that we are in the middle K andarian of one of the scariest times we have ever or will ever experience. And I feel guilty saying this, but I’m glad my parents died several years ago because they would never have survived. But now I’m in that age bracket of vastly increased susceptibility to succumbing to the virus if I get it, comforted by the fact I don’t have an immune deficiency issue, am in good health, and that most of those who do get it recover. As of this writing, and depending where you look, the odds of dying from the virus run from 1.5 percent to 3.5 percent. That’s worth noting. But on the flip side that means 98.5 percent to 96.5 percent do not. That is more worth noting. And that’s because while the disease is scary and we should take every precaution we can, being fearful does not mean living in fear. Everything’s changed, it has, it will, it may forever. But we cannot live in fear. Stress springs from fear and stress is the leading cause of heart disease. This is not an entreaty to be fearless, to live your normal life; nothing about life as of today and likely months to come, is normal. There will be a new normal we’ll have to adjust to. And we will. This is just an entreaty to be good to your soul, your mind, yourself, your core. There is no cure for fear, but there are ways to mitigate it, which by the time you read this, you’ll all likely have seen many times. But my favorites: 1. Do NOT embrace the fear or let it embrace you. Repeat as needed 2. Do not live on social media, and if you do (guilty for the most part), do not believe every damn thing you see. Vet them, type in whatever is being pushed as true and
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verify, verify, verify through reputable news or governmental or medical sites. Far too often, people just repost crap because they find it interesting or fitting their beliefs (guilty, but NOT very often). Verify. Verify. Verify. 3. Get help. I am. Therapy works, counseling helps, talking is essential, and no one listens better and can cut through the fog of emotions like a counselor. As of this writing (an essential phrase itself in these everchanging times), I do it virtually. Everyone does. I’ve gotten therapy before, in those golden years of human contact, and will again, and it is so helpful. Be unafraid of that, don’t judge yourself for it if you think it’s a sign of weakness. Quite the opposite – getting help is a sign of strength and is empowering.
Do NOT embrace the fear or let it embrace you. Repeat as needed. 4. Along those lines, cry. Cry as needed, often or not, but it’s cathartic. I’m mostly Italian, and we cry if the pasta’s not al dente. But seriously, I’ve just often cried for no apparent reason lately, realizing later there is a reason. The pandemic is reason enough, the stress of that, the overpowering negativity. Crying is a release. Release is a good thing. 5. Meditate. Like many, I long thought myself incapable of this, because I erroneously thought you had to clear your mind. You cannot, no one has a completely clear mind (resisting political jibes here). It’s not possible. So you breathe, in, out, in, out, in through the nose deeply, out through the mouth like blowing up a balloon, repeat, repeat, repeat, and focus on that. When stray thoughts enter (they always will, it’s a given), acknowledge them and refocus on breathing. I’m just beginning this
M ay /J une 2020
myself but as of this writing (I’m starting to hate that phrase but it works), it’s helping immeasurably. Just breathing deeply slows down the heart, reduces the stress, mitigates the fear. Try it; breathing requires no special training, after all. 6. Laugh. For the love of whatever, laugh, laugh, laugh. Humor may not be the best actual medicine (a vaccine would be right about now), but boy, it’s so helpful. Someone on Facebook posted a virus joke (yes, it’s possible!) that was funny, and someone else went off on it saying, “These are dark and uncertain times, and it’s not a time for humor.” Seriously? It is the best time for humor. Lighten up (see number 1). 7. Ignore the Virus Police. There are so many, too many of them out there – people who on social media respond to anyone setting foot outside for so much as a walk in fresh air that they’re in essence killing people. I’ve seen that, you’ve seen that, the self-appointed, self-quarantining, selfrighteous who, though well-intended, are a major pain in the ass. These are also the people with major humor deficiency 8. Shut. The. Damn. News. Off. Get the info you need and watch a movie. 24/7/365 bombardment of bad news will screw you up. 9. Be grateful. Hard these days maybe, but there are so many things to be grateful for, a good meal, a nice walk, a funny joke, finding a fiver in your pocket you forgot about, running across toilet paper in a store, the smile of a child or grandchild in real time or FaceTime. Be. Forever. Grateful. It will reward your soul. FDR famously said after Pearl Harbor, “let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself – nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.” Be well, people. And don’t forget to just be.
Paul K andarian is a lifelong area resident and, since 1982, has been a profession writer, columnist, and contributor in national magazines, websites, and other publications.
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