South Coast Prime Times - November/December 2019

November /December 2019 · Volume 15 · Number 6

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Showtime Go “green” Dine time Winter health

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CONTENTS In every issue

Prime season

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6

26

From the publisher

In Brief

by Elizabeth Morse Read

16

Prime living

12

18

22

32 Winter health, naturally!

by Carissa Wills-DeMello

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas

by Elizabeth Morse Read

A living laboratory

by Ann Katzenbach

Take a look – it’s in a book

by Paul Kandarian

Good times Going green

by Elizabeth Morse Read

22 8

MassHealth changes in 2019

by Jane E. Sullivan, Esq.

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24

It’s showtime!

by Sean McCarthy

The North End dining destination

by Steven Froias

A tale of two shoulders

by Dr. Mena Mesiha

November /December 2019 · volume 15 · Number 6

On the cover: Just ‘round the bend is Round the Bend Farm in South Dartmouth, where visitors can enjoy Open Farm Days. To learn more, turn to page 16 in this issue.

Photo: John M atias Photography Jsilphotography.com

Heading to Harv est

Showtime Go “green”

December 31, 2019

Dine time Winter health

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Plus 20% on your gas bill. Now’s the time!

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FROM THE PUBLISHER November/December 2019 n Vol. 15 n No. 6 Published by

Coastal Communications Corp.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Ljiljana Vasiljevic

Don’t sweat the chilly air – true locals know that this time of year is when the South Coast comes alive, so long as you know where to look.

That’s why this issue is highlighting the hidden gems and stowaway joys of autumn.

Editor

Sebastian Clarkin Online editor

Paul Letendre Contributors

Steven Froias, Paul Kandarian, Ann Katzenbach, Sean McCarthy, Dr. Mena Mesiha, Elizabeth Morse Read, Jane E. Sullivan, Esq., and Carissa WillsDeMello

However you like to spend the colder months, there’s one thing that’s almost for certain: you’ll be indoors, whatever you end up doing. But don’t risk cabin fever – find a local theater that can whisk you away to a faraway land. To see what your local production company will be performing, be sure to read Sean McCarthy’s article on page 8.

South Coast Prime Times is published bi-monthly.

Copyright ©2019 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 December 18, 2019

Of course, you won’t be doing much of anything if you succumb to winter illnesses. This winter, take the time to learn about all-natural remedies and preventative measures you can take to stay well as sweater weather bears down on us. For this issue’s dose of healthy living, check out Carissa Wills-DeMello’s article on page 12.

After that, you’ll probably have something of a shopping list going. Fret not, because Ann Katzenbach is has the perfect suggestion on page 16: a local farm that’s leaving the barn door open for any and all willing to learn how agriculture can transform a community.

Just because the weather is cooling down, it doesn’t mean that things won’t be heating up! Enjoy the harvest season, holiday celebrations, and the crispness in the air that serves as a daily reminder that there’s no better place in the world to spend an autumn.

Circulation 25,000

Subscriptions $19.95 per year

M ailing address

Ljiljana Vasiljevic

South Coast Prime Times P.O. Box 3493 Fall River, MA 02722

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

Phone (508) 677-3000

Website coastalmags.com

E-mail editor@coastalmags.com

Our advertisers make this publication possible —please support them facebook.com/thesouthcoastinsider

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GOOD TIMES

It’s beginning to look a lot like

Christmas

Compiled by Elizabeth Morse Read

The Annual Festival of Lights at LaSalette Shrine in Attleboro begins November 28 through January 5 – more than 300,000 lights illuminating ten acres! For details, call 508-222-5410 or go to lasaletteattleboroshrine.org.

Listen to the hand bell choir, lessons and carols at Saint George’s School in Middletown on December 13, and watch the 108th Medieval Christmas Pageant on December 15! For details, call 401-8426736 or visit stgeorges.edu.

The Christmas Festival of Lights runs from November 15 through January 1 at Edaville Railroad in Carver! Take the kids on heated train rides illuminated by 17 million lights throughout the park! For more info, call 508-866-8190 or go to edaville.com.

Find that special gift at the “Artists For The Bay” show at the Save the Bay Center in Providence opening December 5, showcasing the works of local artists, artisans, and jewelers! For info, go to savebay.org/art or call 401-272-3540.

Plan ahead for the free Christmas concert on December 4 at the Dartmouth Grange Hall, featuring The Bellaphone Show! For info, go to dartmouthgrange.org.

Don’t miss one of the signature musical events of the season – a free performance by the Saint Petersburg Russian Men’s Ensemble at Emmanuel Church in Newport on December 15!

For more info, call 401-847-0675 or visit emmanuelnewport.org.

Cut down your own Christmas tree at Escobar Farm in Portsmouth! For info, go to escobarfarm.com or call 401-683-1444.

Stroll through the holiday splendor of “Christmas at the Newport Mansions” November 23 to January 1! For tickets and details, call 401-847-1999 or go to newportmansions.org.

Buy your tickets early to see “The Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff,” performed by the Island Moving Com-

Find out why Taunton is called “the Christmas City”! Don’t miss the 105th Lighting of the Green! For dates and details, go to facebook.com/ lightingofthegreen

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pany, on November 27, 29, December 1, 3-6! For info, go to islandmovingco.org.

Mark your calendar for the 28th Annual New Bedford Holiday House Tours on December 14-15! Go on candlelight tours through the 19th-century mansions of New Bedford! For more info, visit nbpreservationsociety.org.

Head for the free Christmas Open House at Newport’s Irish Interpretive Museum on December 14! Celtic music and gifts, refreshments. For more info, go to newportirishhistory.org.

Kick off the holidays at the Newport Block Party & Holiday Stroll at Bowen’s Wharf on November 29! Watch the Illuminated Boat Parade while you shop and enjoy the music – and plan ahead for the 49th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on December 7! For more info, visit bowenswharf.com.

Plan ahead for the Christmas concert performed by the Sippican Choral Society December 6 at St. Joseph’s Church in New Bedford, December 8 at Wickendon Chapel in Marion! For more info, go to sippicanchoralsociety.org or call 508-7632327.

Mark your calendar for the annual Holiday Shop & Stroll November 30 throughout downtown New Bedford! For more info, go to downtownnb.org.

Don’t miss the Newport Navy Choristers’ Christmas concert on December 8 at First Baptist Church in Fall River, December 13 at Saint Lucy’s Church in Middletown! For details, call 401-8491135 or go to newportnavychoristers.org.

ASTHMA Research Study NEMRA is currently enrolling in a research study for an investigational medication for asthma patients 18-70 years of age. Diagnosed with asthma for at least 6 months, using an ICS or ICS plus one other controller other than Albuterol, and are ex-smokers with a less than 10 pack/year history or non-smokers.

Deck the Halls! Make a trip to the Fall River Historical Society for a Victorian-era Christmas November 17 to December 30!

Tour the expertly-decorated mansion and trees, attend at High Tea at the Easton Tea Room, shop for unique holiday gifts at the Museum Shop! For a complete schedule and more info, call 508-679-1071 or visit lizzieborden.org.

Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for “A Christmas Carol” December 7 and the NBSO’s Holiday Pops Family Concert December 14! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Enjoy an evening of wine and giftshopping at the Holiday Sip and Stroll on December 12 at The Alley Theatre in Middleboro! For details, call 508-9461071 or go to burtwoodschool.com.

this research study which has 7 office visits, two of which are approximately 5 hours long. All study related procedures and testing are done at no cost.

River on December 14! For more info, call 508-673-2929 or go to ahafallriver.com.

Compensation is available for

Head for Lakeville to see the Crazy Tech Christmas Animated Light Show, with synchronized music, November 29 through December 31! For details, go to crazytechchristmas.com/showinfo.

Don’t miss Middleboro’s Annual Town Hall Tree Lighting on December 1!

For details, call 774-766-6335 or go to facebook.com/middleborotoday.

Mark your calendars! Enjoy the holiday season by watching the Spindle City Ballet’s performance of “The Nutcracker” at BCC’s Jackson Theatre in Fall River on December 21-22! For tickets and info, visit spindlecityballet.org or call 508-5366073.

Put on your free-with-registration Santa suit on December 7 and join the annual Santa 5K Run through Mattapoisett! For info, go to nbsantarun.com.

Don’t miss the “Old-Time Holiday Fair” in Fairhaven on December 14! For more info, go to fairhaventours.com or call 508-979-4085.

Mark your calendar for the Annual Holiday House Tour in Marion, starting at Handy’s Tavern, on December 14! For details, visit sippicanwomansclub.org.

Plan ahead for the annual Bristol Christmas Festival, starting November 30 with the Grand Illumination, a week full of family-oriented activities, music and entertainment! For a complete schedule, visit christmasbristolri.com or facebook.com/bristolchristmasfestival.

Plan ahead for the Annual Festival of Trees at the Government Center in Fall

You may qualify to participate in

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GOOD TIMES

It’s showtime!

Taj E xpress: The Bollywood Musical Revue at the Zeiterion

The increasingly cold weather means it’s time for more indoor activities. Perhaps one of those activities should be enjoying a regional theatre production.

Sean McCarthy

ZEITERION

One of the season’s highlights will be The New Bedford Festival Theatre’s production of “The Best of Times” as they celebrate the group’s 30th season. Held at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, the show will also serve to honor founder Armand Marchand and Artistic Director George Charbonneau. The show is being written by Producer Wendy Hall and Elizabeth Bettencourt with assistance from Musical Director Juan Rodriguez. Bettencourt is also the show’s Co-Director and the Director of Education for the

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company as well as being a former actress with the troupe. The performance will include musical highlights and interesting stories about the 30 years of NBFT. It will feature upwards of 25 performers, alumni who will be coming from New York, Boston, and beyond to contribute to the celebration.

“We’re collecting memories and stories from many different people and weaving them into the script,” Hall says. “They will be both poignant and humorous told through the eyes of artists who helped create those moments. We’re really excited about this.”

The show will also include an eightpiece orchestra performing the musical highlights from the group’s 30 years that

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Marchand and Charbonneau helped bring to local stages. The show will take place on November 30.

The Zeiterion will also be presenting captivating performances this season. On November 4 they will host “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.”

“This will be a spectacular production that brings together all of the wonderful Carole King music weaving throughout the story of her life,” says Rosemary Gill, Executive Director of Programming and Development at the Zeiterion. “It’s been a smash on Broadway and has been touring for years winning sold out audiences every night.”

For a fascinating taste of the culture of India, The Zeiterion will present “Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Revue on November 17.

“This will be a spectacle of music, dance and film that will dazzle audiences,” Gill says. “Bollywood is India’s version of Hollywood. There’s thrilling live music and

Fall River Historical Society Historical Highlights Annual Holiday Open House Through December 30 Featured on Chronicle, the FRHS’ acclaimed annual Open House lets visitors experience the splendor of a grand Victorian era Christmas. The FRHS mansion is lavishly decked out in an award-winning holiday display from room to room, including a series of dazzling themed trees. Admission is by donation. Hours are 9 to 4 Monday - Friday and 1 to 4:30 Saturdays and Sundays.

Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, and at noon on December 24. For more information, call 508-679-1071, ext. 1 or 2.

Little Theatre Rehearsal for Shrek The Musical

Curtains up Your Theatre will be bringing a pair of shows this season – The Agatha Christie thriller “A Murder Is Announced” and Neil Simon’s “The Gingerbread Lady.”

The plot of “A Murder” is about a local newspaper announcing that a murder would take place in Ms. Blacklock’s home. What follows is a classic Christie puzzle of motives, identities, guests and a determined inspector with twists and turns.

It’s presented with edge-of-yourseat direction by Robin Richard.

“A Murder” will be presented on November 7 through 10, and then 14 to 17.

“Gingerbread” is one of Neil Simon’s lesser known plays due to its dark comedy. The comedy however is easy to find amongst the fast-paced scenes, funny characters, and touching life challenges.

“People will find something familiar about the character’s struggles and enjoy the way that sharp humor can help us all to deal with the curve balls that life can throw at us,” says Eric Paradis who will be making his directing debut.

“Gingerbread Lady” will be held on January 9 through 12, and then 16 through 19. Both shows will be held at 136 Rivet Street in New Bedford. Their website is yourtheatre.org.

Your Theatre

joyful dancers with beautiful costumes and lighting.”

The Zeiterion will be welcoming the holidays with a presentation of “A Christmas Carol” on Saturday, December 7 with shows at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

This adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic story will be performed by the Nebraska Theatre Caravan featuring a lively production with thrilling music, Broadway-style scenery and costumes that create an enduring tale that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. This version also includes beautiful new arrangements and moving renditions of many classic holiday songs.

Fans of the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker” are invited to board a motor coach to the Boston Opera House to enjoy the story performed by the world-class Boston Ballet on Sunday, December 15 at 1:30 p.m.

The Zeiterion is located at 684 Purchase St. in New Bedford. Their website is zeiterion.org.

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Palette Pictures Art Exhibit and Silent Auction Through December 18 Palette Pictures, an annual exhibit and sale of works donated by artists in the South Coast region, offers art lovers a variety of high-quality original art works in a variety of media at small prices. Bidding for each work starts at half of the retail price.

Proceeds benefit the FRHS. Hours are 9 to 4 Monday through Friday and 1 to 4:30 Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free.

Victorian High Tea in Easton Tea Room Through December 29 Fine English teas, our famous scones, tea sandwiches, savories, and dainty pastries served in Easton Tea Room’s three elegant and intimate parlors with original period details. Located in the historic 1870 Alexander Dorrance Easton house adjacent to the FRHS at 458 High Street. Open for the holiday season on Saturdays and Sundays. Reservations recommended.

Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus December 15, 2019, 9 a.m. to noon Young and old alike are cordially invited to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Visits take place in the lavishly decorated Music Room, where the jolly duo will greet guests in front of one of our dazzling Christmas trees. Please bring your own camera. A volunteer will be on hand to take photos at your request.

Admission is free.

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Little Theatre

303 State Road n Westport, MA

The Little Theatre of Fall River will be putting on two shows in the coming months: “Shrek The Musical” on November 14 through 17 at Bristol Community College, and “Starting Here, Starting Now” on December 5 through 15 at the Firebarn.

“Shrek” is ultimately about bullying and people who are considered different, told with familiar characters recognizable to audience members. The story is about people being told to leave the town in which they were living because they were different from the others, they were not cookie-cutter creatures that the leaders preferred. But at one point Shrek the ogre is tasked with saving the princess Fiona for the Lord in charge of the town. Eventually the two fall in love and the Lord realizes that he himself is not a cookie-cutter person and the

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town is able to live together with their differences.

BCC is located at 777 Elsbree Street in Fall River.

The group will also perform “Starting Here, Starting Now,” a musical revue that features songs from previous shows that were failed musicals. The first act tells humorous stories and deals with the joy of relationships, specifically big city relationships. The second act deals with unlucky, less joyous relationships.

“These songs are successful because they’re very relatable,” says Jose Cabral of Little Theatre. “The themes of the songs are often familiar to people from teens to adults.”

The Firebarn is located at 340 Prospect Street in Fall River. Their website is littletheatre.net.

Relatedly, the Bristol Community College Theatre Group will be putting on two plays in the coming months – an original production devoted to Edgar Allen Poe and a play to be held in Black History Month this February.

Words, words, words The 17th Annual Short Plays Marathon will take to the theatre in the New Bedford Whaling Museum on Saturday, November 23 from 2 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Presented by the local group Culture*Park, the event will include 27 staged readings of new works by regional and national playwrights that will be presented as staged readings by an ensemble of New England-based actors and directors. The productions are the works of award-winning writers, playwrights and poets alongside works by new writers and students. This year’s event will include four plays by the internationally recognized Climate Change Action Theatre from New York under the moniker of “Lighting the Way.” “This is a very fun event, many people look forward to this each year, and the theme of Climate Change is big,” says Rebecca Schade, co-founder and Executive Director of the show. “The theatre is intimate so the atmosphere is close and personal.”

The event will also include Questionand-Answer sessions with some of the playwrights.

Culture*Park will also be presenting a dramatic performance staged at the Whaling Museum during the annual Moby Dick Read-a-Thon as they will act out Chapter 40 of the book, which was originally written as a play. That event will take place in early January of 2020.

The Whaling Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in downtown New Bedford. Cultural*Park’s website is culturalpark.org and they are also available on Facebook.

Encore November 10 will have the Seaglass Theatre Company hosting a musical salute to veterans at the First Congregational Church at 34 Center Street in Fairhaven. Beginning at 3 p.m., ”Stars and Stripes: A Musical” will be held in the spirit of an old-fashioned USO show, presenting a concert of patriotic numbers and timeless classics celebrating the men and women who have served our country and our community. The event will feature professional soloists, a community chorus, and a multimedia component with photographs and stories of veterans shared throughout the show.

The website for Seaglass Theatre is seaglasstheater.com.

On January 24 and 25 The Glass Horse Project will put on “Eurydice” at The Co-Creative Center in downtown New Bedford. This tale from Greek mythology tells the story of the beautiful Eurydice and her husband Orpheus, an extraordinary musical talent.

When Eurydice steps on a snake she dies and is sent to the underworld of Hades. The plot develops as Orpheus attempts to rescue his partner from Hades and the struggles that develop in that pursuit.

The Glass Horse Project is in the process of working with younger people from the area, generally ages 20 to 35. They are prioritizing young people in all roles that go into producing a show, people who want to get experience in the world of theatre in fields such as acting, directing, stage managing, and production.

“We’re trying to provide a start for young people who want to go into professional theatre,” says Artistic Director Corey Pimental.

Glass Horse Project’s website is facebook. com/theglasshorseproject/.

Seaglass Theatre

BCC Theatre Group

On Thursday, November 7 and Friday, November 8 at 7 p.m. the group will perform “An Evening with Edgar Allen Poe,” created by the ensemble, that features the poems, short stories, and biographical details woven together. The show functions as a séance conjuring the spirit of Poe paired with characters from his life, particularly his fiancé, Sarah Helen Whitman.

On Thursday, February 13 and Friday, February 14 at 7 p.m. the BCC group will perform “New Canfield Drive,” the story of the shooting of Michael Brown and its aftermath, exploring how bias and institutional racism corrupt the media, institutions, and personal relationships.

BCC’s website is bristolcc.edu.

Sean McCarthy has been a freelance journalist for 27 years. He lives in New Bedford.

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PRIME LIVING

Winter health, naturally!

B y C arissa W ills -D e M ello

H

erbal tea: the go-to the drink of the ages. You’d be hard pressed to find an individual who can’t appreciate the relief that a steamy cup of chamomile offers. Soothing the nerves, releasing tension, lifting the spirit… the effects of herbs are wonderfully powerful, and undeniably enjoyable. Herbs have a long history of medicinal use around the world and across cultures, and it’s no wonder. Herbal teas have been sipped for health and enjoyment as long as written history extends.

Technology has unfortunately moved our society further and further away from believing in nature’s ability to heal. And yet, just the faint whisper of chamomile steam reminds us of the truth. Nature’s timeless wisdom grows in each leaf and every bud, supporting us as we restore balance and vitality in our bodies and minds. Unlike Western, or allopathic, medicine, which seeks to combat and eradicate disease, herbs show us that the body heals itself when given proper nourishment and support.

In an increasingly chaotic world, herbs in the form of tea are a simple and holistic approach to supporting overall wellness.

It’s easy to see why tea is such a celebrated substance. It allows people to benefit from the nutrition of plants that otherwise would be challenging or even unpleasant to consume. Who would want to eat a stalk of lavender or munch on cinnamon bark? But steep these same plants in hot water and you’ll find their

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flavors delicious and the effects nearly magical!

In her book, Healing Herbs for Women, well-known herbalist Deb Soule explains that “preparing tea is an ancient ritual.

It is a simple act that adds warmth and pleasure to people sharing their life stories over a steaming cup of tea. Herbal teas are used for administering both nourishment and medicine.”

Should you be interested in taking tea for more than enjoyment, it’s time that you try an “infusion,” which means steeping herbs in hot water for twenty minutes or more to produce a hearty, nourishing brew. Infusions allow our bodies to easily access the plant-based constituents that keep us healthy and aid us in times of illness. So in your tasty cup of tea, you’ll not only find flavor, but also essential nutrition in the form of bioavailable vitamins, minerals, proteins, and even fats!

Mary Blue, clinical herbalist and owner of Farmacy Herbs in Providence

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explains, “I love using herbal teas and infusions to support the health of the body because so many herbal teas are so high in essential vitamins and minerals!

They help nourish, tone, and strengthen, the same way eating a salad does! I also love brewing teas loose or made with organic tea bags, because many large tea companies use tea bags that are sealed with toxic glues and bleach that is not healthy for the body. I also prioritize herbs that have a vibrant smell and color to get the highest health benefits.”

There are countless herbs to choose from, but there are a few superstar tonic herbs that lend themselves well to your daily infusion. A tonic herb is safe for daily use, and effectively strengthens various body systems. Start with a few these, and you’ll no doubt feel the effects within weeks.

Nettles (Urtica dioica) is amazingly rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially the critical trace minerals: anti-cancer selenium, immune-enhancing sulphur, memory-enhancing zinc, and bone-building boron. It is also an excellent source of vitamins A, D, E, and K. Nettles build energy, strengthen the adrenals, nourish the kidneys, feed the blood, and moderate most allergies. It’s your multivitamin in a cup!

the other tonic herbs, Dandelion is packed with vitamins and minerals, most notably iron. Because iron is easily depleted by coffee, alcohol, soda, and other common things, it’s important to sip your daily iron-rich tea!

Oats (Avena sativa) is considered one of the greatest longevity tonics, long known to foster physical, mental, and emotional strength and resilience. Herbalists use the “tops” and the straw, which is best known to build and soothe the nerves, through high vitamin B, calcium and magnesium content. Their steroidal saponins nourish the pancreas and liver, improving digestion and stabilizing moods. Oats are a friend to the reproductive system, enhancing libido by supporting the endocrine system, moistening glands, and regulating hormones. A friend also to the heart, Oats reduce high cholesterol while improving the organ’s strength and energy.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is extremely rich in carotene and chlorophyll, as well as other important vitamins (from A to U!) and minerals. Alfalfa alkalizes the body, which sedates nerves and muscles, removes acids from the internal environment, and cleanses internal tissues. Most notably, Alfalfa contains eight essential amino acids and a good dose of antioxidants. The rich mineral content found in Alfalfa explains its traditional use for bone support.

Dandelion (Taraxicum oficinalis), explains the “grandmother of herbalism” Rosemary Gladstar, “is one of the great tonic herbs of all times. The entire plant is restorative and rejuvenating.” Dandelion stimulates the flow of digestive juices, helping the body to break down and absorb nutrition. By supporting the liver, it can help balance hormonal production and clear skin conditions, explaining its common use as a “blood cleanser.” Like

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is shown in studies the world over to be an “anticancer” herb, thanks to its phytoestrogen content. This lovely weed has an affinity for the female reproductive system, with multiple studies exemplifying its ability to balance menstrual cycles and decrease menopause symptoms. Red clover is also a well-known “blood cleanser,” aiding the removal of metabolic waste products.

This can be useful for skin conditions and hormone imbalance.

A couple spoonfuls or even a handful of herbs, depending on your palate and budget, steeped in hot water is all you need to get on a track to help! Four cups of tonic tea a day is the traditional “medicinal” dosage, providing you with ample daily nutrition. Mary Blue suggested a tablespoon of herbs per cup of water.

To get the best bang for your buck, pick a few tonic herbs and order them in bulk.

This is most cost effective, long-lasting, and gives you blend options. Trusted online purveyors include Mountain Rose Herbs and Starwest Botanicals. If you seek a more personal experience, check out nearby shops stocked with locally grown herbs: Farmacy Herbs (Providence), Seven Arrows (Seekonk), or my very own Bilo Herbs (Westport).

Getting the nutrition that we desire need not be expensive nor challenging. A handful of dandelion leaves or red clover blossoms contains much of the nutrition that the standard American diet sorely lacks. Nourishing herbal infusions are the key to an energetic youth and vibrant elder years, making wellness easy and enjoyable! There’s a reason tea is the ancient beverage of choice. As we’ve seen, the many phytochemicals in herbs restore body systems, encourage normal body function, and build general health and wellbeing. So give it a try – herbal tonics might just be your cup of tea.

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The North End

dining destination

GOOD TIMES

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Inside Chocolate com Pimenta

Cafe Europa’s facade project is helping to bring new life to The Ave

Picture captions: Peering into the kitchen at A driana’s Mexican Restaurant.

The patio at Kyler’s Seafood M arket

Steven Froias

It started as a simple – but delicious – idea in 2018. The Love The Ave community group brainstormed ways to spotlight the culture and commercial appeal of Acushnet Avenue and the North End of New Bedford when they realized, “Hey – there’s a lot of restaurants up here!”

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A quick tally totaled well over 30 diverse Europa Cafe ensure that continental eateries north of Coggeshall Street in the cuisine is always on the menu. These city. Many dot the commercial corridor businesses (and almost a half dozen of historic affection, Acushnet Avenue, Portuguese bakeries) are still thriving and and others are found in the surrounding all have been a part of the flavor of this community. community for decades.

So, the group, along with the support of Today they’re joined by new flavors, the New Bedford Economic Development enhancing the North End’s appeal as a Council and Mayor Jon Mitchell’s office, dining destination. Kick-off day for this launched a Restaurant Week promotion year’s Restaurant Week coincided with to share their discovery with the greater Festival Tipico Con Barriletes, the annual Southcoast area.

Guatemalan Kite Festival, taking place And then this past September, they did just East of The Ave in Riverside Park for it again. an afternoon.

Special features were added, like a movie Increasingly, Hispanic, Latino, and night at Incognito, and an opening bash Guatemalan eateries are joining their at Adriana’s Mexican Restaurant with live Portuguese counterparts on or around music: the Buttonwood Brass Trio. New The Ave. Sara’s Bakery specializes in Bedford’s tamales and Mayor, and nvesting in the orth nd conchas (Cenits Chief of tral American and thereby physically Police, Joseph sweet bread).

Cordeiro, Taqueria La transforming it into came by to Raza is a go-to launch the spot for tacos a dining destination is week, as and burritos. well as City becoming commonplace And Adriana’s Council has brought members Maria Giesta and Hugh Dunn.

Mexican food to The Ave. It was a sign of the historical resonance Additionally, like all of New Bedford, and present-day importance of this North the city’s world-famous seafood is on the End neighborhood. Acushnet Avenue is menu almost everywhere. At the gateway one of those urban commercial corridors to the North End by I-195 sits Kyler’s which hit a high point in the 1960s, but Catch Seafood Market – and now Kitchen. then struggled to adapt to changing retail Recently they opened a cafeteria-style tastes from the 1970s onward as stores indoor eating area as well as an outdoor moved to the malls and suburbs. patio to complement their market.

Yet today, thanks in no small part to a Investing in the North End and thereby dynamic Central American community, physically transforming it into a dining the streetscape is being transformed into destination is becoming commonplace. a 21st century version of something it’s Cafe Europa just completed a stunning been before: an international marketplace facade renovation with new, lighted for immigrants. signage that brings some bling to The Ave. That’s reflected in the legacy businesses Girassol Restaurant is planning to follow on The Ave and many of the establishsuit in the coming year, with an upgrade ments which make up the participants of to its building near Nash Road. the restaurant week.

The diversity of the cuisine found in this Acushnet Avenue and the North End is area of New Bedford is part of a renewed a destination dining spot renowned for emphasis by the Love The Ave group to its Portuguese food, thanks to an influx define it as a distinct cultural district of residents from Portugal throughout its within the city. history. Indeed, the largest Portuguese Restaurant Week closed with a dash festival in the world, the Feast of the of cinematic culture. Incognito is a Blessed Sacrament, began in 1904 and popular club and catering business which still helps define this area in the city each essentially caters their own special events year. It takes place on The Feast ground on occasion, like their popular dinner and just blocks from The Ave, and an annual parade down the street brings it to a close. a movie nights. They screened the Elton John biopic “Rocketman” to end the week Year-round, popular dining spots like and help remind patrons that The Ave is Cafe Portugal, Cafe Mimo, Girassol a destination for what’s happening today (sunflower) Restaurant, Antonios, and

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The Love the Ave Mission Statement: The commercial corridor and surrounding neighborhood is home to the city’s International Marketplace – a collection of cultures reflected in its many restaurants, businesses, services and opportunities – and vibrant Riverside Park among other unique destinations.

Its residential population enjoys the area’s most walkable neighborhood. From dawn into the evening, The Ave, as it is affectionately known, is a hub of activity.

Up and down The Ave and throughout the North End you’ll find a community of civic and private enterprises of all backgrounds working together to create a destination like none other on the South Coast.

Make yourself part of this unique streetscape. Meet, mingle, create and Love the Ave. The North End is the launching pad for what’s next in New Bedford! and tomorrow. Incognito holds dinner and movie nights all year long.

Even after this year’s Restaurant Week, the Love The Ave team hope you will keep the delicious eateries of Acushnet Avenue and the North End of New Bedford on your permanent menu.

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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PRIME SEASON

A living laboratory While the planet is warming up and few leaders have the will to help us live sustainable lives, there are bright spots on the map. One of them is close by in South Dartmouth.

A nn K atzenbach

Round the Bend Farm: A Center for Restorative Community (RTB), on Allens Neck Road, is a powerful model for the future. Founded by visionaries, funded by individuals and foundations, and becoming self-sustaining through its own hard work, RTB can teach us a lot about how we might live in a more balanced world.

Here’s a partial list of how RTB has figured out how to farm and live with little impact on the environment. First, parts of their buildings are constructed

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from trees cut and sawed right on the property, and the rest of the lumber comes from local sawmills or renewable sources. They have composting toilets, and more than enough solar electricity to run the entire 94 acres. Bees pollinate their orchards. A herd of goats can clear brush (poison ivy, bittersweet, thorns, and vines get gobbled up). Pigs help root up the earth for planting, and a small herd of cattle keeps the pastureland productive, providing habitats for birds and other wildlife. Manure from the animals and all plant compost goes back into the soil.

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RTB has also started educational programs. They send teachers to schools and bring elementary students to the farm to study nature. Older students come to the land to work and learn about sustainability.

RTB partners with other nearby farmers who share their beliefs in a restorative community. Paradox Acres and Flying Carrot Farm are two of these. Then there’s Lucy who keeps beehives on the property, and Nilsa who makes tinctures and teas from herbs she grows on the farm.

A small cadre of full-time workers live in tiny cabins, and workers, students, and volunteers take meals in the big commercial kitchen area where meals and snacks and even banquets are prepared with food from the farm and the local area.

Each month RBT holds an Open Farm

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Each month RBT holds an Open Farm Day that is free and open to the public.

Day that is free and open to the public on the third Saturday of the month, AprilDecember from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is an opportunity to meet the staff and get a guided tour of the orchard, pastures, animals (the pigs are a particular attraction) greenhouses, and gardens.

There are also lots of other activities on this special day. There’s an offering of gently-used free clothing – mostly for youngsters. If you want a RBT shirt, these are for sale along with burgers, pizza, seasonal produce, honey, herbal products, maple syrup, and meat from Paradox Acres grass-fed cattle. Note that the farm does not take charge cards – check or cash are fine.

However, you don’t need to buy anything! It’s a free day. You can bring a picnic and enjoy it on the big grass lawn or under the long sheltering roof that connects buildings. Kids and grown-ups can play games, and there’s live music.

If it turns out to be a blustery day, there are plenty of out-of-the-weather places to spend time.

And if you can’t get to RBT on November 16, there’s another Open Farm Day on

December 21. They also offer group tours if you make a date in advance.

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More to do in the neighborhood Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary borders Round the Bend Farm and has entrances along Horseneck Road all the way to Westport. You will find hundreds of acres of fields, woodlands, ponds, marshes, and beaches open to the public from dawn to dusk every day. This Audubon property works with RTB and other neighbors to provide wildlife habitat and educational opportunities.

This month, with winter in the wings, there is an owl walk, a Leaf Mandala Workshop and a 6-mile guided hike is scheduled for the day after Thanksgiving.

Guided walks and workshops have fees that are discounted for Audubon members.

Find a listing of monthly events on their web page. Go to massaudubon.org and click on Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary.

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

Going green How would you like to lose weight, feel more energetic, drastically reduce your risk of chronic diseases, reduce your carbon footprint, decrease animal cruelty, and help fight climate change?

If you answered “yes, I would!” to any of the above, then consider gradually reducing Eliz abeth your consumption of meat and dairy Morse Read products and “going veggie.”

You don’t have to become a vegetarian or a vegan overnight, but you can start making simple changes in your diet, substituting more plant-based items on your daily menu instead of those juicy steaks and ham-and-cheese deli sandwiches. With careful, gradual substitutions, you can achieve all of those goals above – and still eat delicious foods that are good for you and the environment.

Vegetarians don’t eat meat, but many do eat milk products and eggs. In contrast, vegans eat an entirely plant-based diet, avoiding all animal-based foods, including meat, dairy products, eggs, fish, and animal by-products. Either route would be a hard sell for most Americans, but food manufacturers, restaurants, and supermarket chains are increasingly offering plant-based substitutes that would make “going veggie” a lot less scary.

Faux meats and cow-free dairy products For beginners who just can’t bear the thought of never again eating animal meats and dairy products, there’s a booming business these days in plant-based meats and non-dairy dairy products. Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are spearheading

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the hottest food industry trend in decades, responding to growing consumer demand for meat and dairy alternatives.

And other major food producers and restaurant chains are jumping on the plant-based bandwagon. Kellogg’s Morning Star Farms brand, the number one producer of veggie burgers, will soon introduce their “Incogmeato” line of plant-based burgers and chicken nuggets. TGI Friday restaurants, along with Burger King, sells meatless burgers and Dunkin Donuts will offer meatless breakfast sausage patties. Just Company, which already produces egg-free mayonnaise, will soon start selling plantbased “egg” mixes that are perfect for scrambling and baking.

And, when KFC recently test-marketed Beyond Meat chicken nuggets at its Atlanta store, it sold out a 90-day supply in just five hours!

But, just as with regular fast foods, it’s not a good idea to rely solely on plant-based fast foods for your nutritional needs. A well-balanced diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts should always be the foundation of a meat-and-dairy-free diet. And always read the nutrition facts labels when you buy meat and dairy alternatives – some are made with high calorie fatty oils, like coconut or palm.

Plant-based meats and dairy products are becoming much easier to find in local supermarkets, not just health food stores any more. Check the meat aisle for plant-based burgers and

The medical case against dairy products

We do rehab right.

We’ve been indoctrinated for decades that dairy products like chocolate milk and Velveeta are absolutely essential for healthy muscles, bones, and teeth. But countries with high rates of dairy consumption (like the US, UK, or Sweden) have the highest rate of osteoporosis, while countries with very low consumption (like China or Japan) have very low rates.

The American/northern European cuisine is overloaded with dairy products – ice cream, milkshakes, butter, cheese, sour cream – all foods high in saturated fats, cholesterol, animal protein, and whatever chemical additives those dairy cows were exposed to.

Sure, we all need to consume calcium to keep our bones strong, and dairy milk is indeed very high in calcium. But it’s also very high in animal protein, which actually leaches calcium from our bones! We can get all the calcium we need for healthy bones by eating plant foods like leafy green vegetables and fruits. Plant-based dairy alternatives (like almond milk or soy-based cheese) eliminate the health hazards posed by consuming factory-farmed dairy products.

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sausages, the produce department for plant-based cheeses and “deli” meats, the dairy section for plant-based milks, “butter,” sour cream, cream cheese, and yogurt. You can even find dairy-free frozen pizzas and prepared meals in the healthy-food sections. Products like Morning Star Farms chorizo crumbles are an easy non-meat substitute in tacos, chili, kale soup, spaghetti sauce and even shepherd’s pie. Go Veggie, Daiya and Chao make tasty “cheezes,” and brands like Amy’s and Gardein make completely vegan frozen meals.

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On average,

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vegans weigh up to 20% less than meat eaters

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Why Go Vegan?

What do Mike Tyson, Ellen DeGeneres, Betty White, and Bill Clinton all have in common? They’re dedicated vegans.

Veganism is an animal-friendly lifestyle that’s very good for your health and also very good for the planet. Some people choose a vegan diet for its proven health benefits: low in calories and free of cholesterol and saturated fats. Others go vegan because they see commercial animal breeding and meat/dairy consumption as ecologically unsustainable – responsible for wasteful use of natural resources, environmental pollution, chemical/antibiotic overload, and unequal global food distribution.

But is a vegan diet healthy?

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A balanced plant-based diet includes whole (unprocessed) grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats and protein from nuts, soy products, seeds, quinoa, lentils, beans, and legumes. They’re all foods high in “good” carbohydrates, fiber,

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Continued from previous page

The environmental case against meat The average American consumes about 230 pounds of meat each year, mostly beef – in contrast, the Chinese consume only 120 pounds of meat, mostly pork (and virtually no dairy products). Because of our bountiful land resources, the American diet is meat-centric, in contrast to Asia or Africa, where fertile grazing land is scarce. But more and more of the farmable American land is being lost to factory-farm animal breeding, agri-business conglomerates, biofuel production, and urban sprawl.

America has long been a top global grain exporter to land-starved countries. But two-thirds of cultivated land in the US is now devoted to producing animal feed – only 8% of our farmable land grows plant food for human consumption. And, as the world’s population and meat consumption rise, so too will the demand for farmland needed to grow animal feed.

As global demand for meat and grain feed grew, countries like Argentina and Brazil ramped up their soybean production, to the point where Brazil now rivals the US in soybean exports. But irreplaceable tropical forests and ecosystems were cleared out in order to increase their farmable acreage – just look at the deliberately-set fires raging in the Amazon region.

Feeding nutritious, high-protein grains to animals, in order to produce meat, means that those grains can’t be eaten by people in land-starved countries. We should be growing our grain crops (like soybeans, corn and wheat) to feed people, not to produce t-bone steaks or chicken nuggets.

It takes two pounds of grain-feed (usually soybean or corn) to produce one pound of chicken, three pounds of grain-feed to produce one pound of pork. But it takes seven pounds of grain-feed to produce just one pound of beef. In terms of natural resources, producing one pound of meat vs. one pound of soybeans requires twelve times as much land and fifteen times as much water. It takes a little over two calories of fossil-fuel energy to produce one calorie of plant protein – but it takes forty calories of fossil-fuel energy to produce just one calorie of factory-farmed meat.

And, in terms of land productivity, soybeans produce twice as much protein per acre than any other crop, and fifteen times as much protein as any acre set aside for meat production.

Not only that, but by some estimates, 20% of the world’s greenhouse gas pollution comes solely from the factoryfarming meat/dairy industry – higher than the pollution caused by all transportation emissions!

magnesium, potassium, folate, Vitamins A, C, and E, antioxidants, phytochemicals (micronutrients), and complete proteins.

A vegan diet safely lowers BMI (body mass index) and weight.

On average, vegans (even newbie part-timers) weigh up to 20% less than meat eaters.

A balanced vegan diet eliminates the commercially-produced packaged foods (and fast foods) that science has already shown

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to be harmful – foods containing refined sugars, refined grains, and trans-fats, not to mention voodoo chemical additives, excessive sodium (salt), and dyes. Plus, factory-farm animals are pumped full of hormones, antibiotics, and toxic chemicals that end up being absorbed by anyone who eats them.

There are undeniable health benefits to a plant-based diet. It can greatly reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Studies have

only soy and quinoa provide the complete protein we need, so pairing legumes and whole grains will provide you with the complete protein your body needs shown that a vegan diet lowers the risk of macular degeneration, arthritis, migraines, PMS, osteoporosis, allergies, prostate, breast, and, especially, colon cancer.

But vegans can develop deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, choline, and vitamin D, so they do need to balance their daily menus carefully. For instance, Vitamin B12 only occurs naturally in animal products, but vegans can fill their B12 needs with fortified products, nutritional yeast (aka “nooch”), or B12 supplements. And vegans eat more mushrooms. Not only do they mimic the chewy “umami” savory-ness of meat, but they are very high in antioxidants and fiber, as well as Vitamin D and choline, which are hard to obtain on a strictly meat-free diet.

Meat Protein vs. Plant Protein As per capita consumption of meat/dairy goes up around the world, so, too, does the rate of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. It’s not meat/dairy per se that’s so unhealthy for us humans. It’s the ridiculous amount of meat/dairy we consume that’s unhealthy, especially if it’s been cooked or processed in an unhealthy way, like deep-fried chicken, grill-scorched burgers, or the mystery cold-cuts in your take-out sandwich.

A vegetarian/vegan diet provides just as much edible protein as a diet heavy on meat and dairy products, without those longterm health hazards. [see sidebar]

Meeting your protein needs Vegetarians and vegans learn to balance their diets carefully to ensure that they eat enough complete proteins. Plant-based diets require the complementary pairing of legumes and whole grains in order to achieve that goal. In the plant world, only soy and quinoa provide the complete protein we need, so pairing legumes (beans, peas, peanuts, lentils) and whole grains (wheat, brown/wild rice, oats, barley, corn, buckwheat etc.) will provide you with the complete protein your body needs – but without any cholesterol or animal fats.

Think succotash (corn and lima beans), beans with rice or corn tortillas, hummus (chickpeas) with whole wheat pita bread,

Hawthorn Medical

You are (or will become) what you ate “Western” chronic diseases are triggered by what we choose to eat. We need only 40-50 grams of protein per day, yet we consume far more than that, and very little of that protein comes from plant-based sources, which are high in fiber, provide all essential nutrients, and contain no cholesterol, saturated fats, trans-fats or chemical additives.

Plus, while everyone’s all a-dither about the overuse of antibiotics (and the resulting emergence of antibioticresistant “superbugs”), what most people don’t realize is that 70% of antibiotics produced in the US is fed to factory-farm animals, not humans. And when we eat those factory-farmed meats, eggs, and milk, those excess antibiotics are absorbed into our bodies. We also absorb all the growth-hormones, insecticides and toxic chemicals those animals were doused with.

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all-natural peanut butter (not Skippy brand) with whole-grain bread, soba noodles (buckwheat) with edamame or adzuki beans, lentil and barley soup, or pea soup with hominy. Adding chickpeas or beans along with nuts or sunflower seeds in your salads will provide a complete protein, too.

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Vegetable-loathing and Tofu-phobia Okay, so your childhood memories include frozen chopped spinach and canned peas with carrot cubes. But fresh vegetables and fruits are in abundance and you should introduce them all into your diet. If you don’t have a clue how to buy, prepare or cook them, pick up a copy of the classic Vegetable Love by Barbara Kafka or any good Mediterranean-style cookbook.

Tofu wasn’t even on the market when you were a kid, but it plays an enormous role in healthy eating nowadays. You can make amazing dairy-substitute ricotta or feta cheeses (even cheesecake!) with tofu. And don’t forget that soybeans, from which tofu is made, is the basis for most faux meats and “cheezes.” Pick up any cookbook written by Issa Chandra Moskowitz for some impressive vegan meals.

Try the flexitarian route So, not everyone would get excited about existing on tofu scramble and bean burgers. But there is a way to decrease your meat and dairy consumption gradually. Remember “meatless Mondays” back in the day? A flexitarian diet is a compromise approach for beginners, swearing off juicy red meats and choosing lean turkey instead, or by swearing off bacon cheeseburgers (a triple threat) and choosing a soup-and-salad lunch.

Or try the pescatarian route – there are some vegetarians and vegans who occasionally eat fish, especially cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel rich in omega-3 fatty acids. So you can choose a Nicoise salad with tuna for lunch instead of the spaghetti and sausage or the steak tips and French fries. Choose the grilled salmon instead of the pork chops.

Make small changes gradually to decrease the meat and dairy in your diet – and go veggie.

Andy Boylan, MD

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Two Convenient Locations: Hawthorn Medical Associates 535 Faunce Corner Road Dartmouth, MA Saint Anne’s Hospital Medical Office Building 851 Middle Street Fall River, MA

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For appointments, call 508-996-3991.

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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PRIME LIVING

MassHealth changes in 2019

There are two recent updates on the Massachusetts Medicaid front that may affect your future planning.

Not to be confused with Medicare, MedJane E. Sullivan, Esq. icaid (here in Massachusetts known as “MassHealth”) is a needs-based government entitlement program that pays for long term custodial care in a nursing home and for certain community services that allow frail elders in need of long-term care services to remain in their homes.

Life estate valuation The first change took effect on September 3, 2019, and pertains to how MassHealth values life estate and remainder interests. A Life Estate Deed is a commonly-used estate planning technique that involves transferring a partial ownership interest in real estate, called the remainder interest, to beneficiaries, typically one’s children.

The parent retains an ownership interest called a life estate.

When the parent dies, their life estate ends, and full ownership of the property (typically the parent’s home) passes immediately to the children, or

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remaindermen. Because the ownership passes automatically without probate, the property is not subject to a MassHealth estate recovery claim. Under current law, MassHealth can only seek estate recovery against probate assets.

If you have done a Life Estate Deed and are contemplating a sale of your property, it is crucial to review the sales process with your estate planning attorney and tax advisor Using the prior methodology of calculating the value of the life estate and remainder interests, the value of the life estate was much lower and the value of the remainder interest much higher. So

N ov ember /D ecember 2019

for example, the value of a life estate for a 75 year old was approximately 20.47% and the remainder 79.53%. For an 85 year old, the life estate value diminished to 12.267% and the remainder increased to 87.733%.

Under the new methodology, the value of a life estate for a 75 year old is now 52.149% (an increase of over 30%) and the remainder is 47.851%. For an 85 year old, the new valuations are 35.359% and 64.641%, respectively.

This new methodology makes it even more important to understand how important it is to not sell a property held in a Life Estate Deed until after the death of the parent, if possible. If property is sold prior to the parent’s death, MassHealth will now have the right to reimbursement from a significantly higher percentage of the net proceeds of the sale.

If you have done a Life Estate Deed and are contemplating a sale of your property, it is crucial to review the sales process with your estate planning attorney and tax advisor.

Pooled trusts Perhaps in reaction to a recent decision of the First Circuit Court of Appeals in the Hamilton case, MassHealth has indicated

* This article is solely advisory and does not constitute legal advice. A qualified estate planning attorney should be consulted before you make any Estate or Medicaid Planning decision. Attorney Jane E. Sullivan has been providing estate and Medicaid legal services for more than 25 years. Her office is conveniently located at 624 Brayton Avenue, Fall River, and can be reached at 508-6790535 or jsullivan@janesullivanlaw.com.

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that commencing in October 2019, it will begin implementation of a regulation proposed in September 2017 to impose penalties on seniors establishing Pooled Trust accounts with their excess assets for MassHealth eligibility purposes.

The Hamilton case (more specifically, Maine Disability Pooled Trust v. Maine Dept. of Health & Human Services) upheld the imposition of a disqualification penalty on establishment of a Pooled Trust account by a person over age 65.

A Pooled Trust Account is a way to provide disabled individuals living in the community and in long-term care facilities a means to maintain their quality of life and pay for goods, services, and care not covered by MassHealth.

This could include companion services, uncovered medical and dental costs, transportation, clothing, personal needs, non-medical therapies, and assisted living. Upon the death of the account beneficiary, MassHealth is reimbursed for benefits paid for the individual, and any residuary in the account is paid to designated beneficiaries.

To date, implementation of this proposed regulation has been delayed due to the tremendous negative public reaction from seniors and their advocates.

Legislation has been proposed to prevent age limits on the establishment of Pooled Trust accounts, and although many legislators have supported the bill (H.615 and S.688) it has not yet been enacted.

Approximately 18 other states allow the use of Pooled Trusts for disabled individuals over the age of 65, and federal law permits the use of these trusts for that population.

To preserve the quality of life of seniors both in the community and in long-term care facilities, call your local legislators to urge them to instruct MassHealth not to implement this proposed regulation and to request them to support passage of this bill. More information can be found at massnaela.com.

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GOOD TIMES

A tale of two shoulders There are the best of shoulders, there are the worst of shoulders. There are shoulders that need treatment, there are Dr. Mena shoulders that need reassurMesiha ance. We have all of medical technology at our disposal, we have simple old fashioned caring as our calling.

In short, it is the responsibility we have as shoulder surgeons to advise our patients on their options and help them work through the possibilities in a way that helps them to choose the best possible treatment. For one shoulder this may mean surgery, while for another shoulder it may mean much

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simpler treatment that is even more effective than surgery.

People that I would consider to be candidates for surgery are usually either people with a new injury that is severe enough that it is not likely to get better without an operation, or people who have undergone a significant

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There is no such thing as needing to have surgery on your shoulder - it is always a choice that is made in light of risks, benefts, and alternatives amount of conservative management.

For the people with a new injury, such as a rotator cuff tear, I will usually have a conversation with them that lays out what they can expect with and without an operation.

Let us say for example that I tell a patient that if they have surgery I would expect them to have a nearly normal shoulder after about six

months, but if they decide not to have surgery then they will likely have fatigue-related pain and weakness with overhead activity for the rest of their life.

If the patient’s job and daily activities are not very physically demanding, it may be a reasonable choice to avoid the risk and long recovery associated with surgery.

Alternatively, if the patient has a job doing manual labor and loves to play sports on

If everyone reading this article starts doing some gentle stretching exercises and a gradual strengthening program focusing on the shoulder blade and rotator cuff muscles, I would imagine that they would eventually tell all of their friends, and all of their friends would tell their friends, and eventually my office will be much emptier.

This is not exactly the best business plan, but I do tell my patients all the time that if we are doing our job properly as doctors, it should be our goal to put ourselves out of business.

My hope is that in reading this you feel that you are more in control of your decision whether or not to seek treatment for your shoulder.

If it’s not so bad and you can

A D W AY I O BR W BEDFOR N NE

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live with it, don’t worry about it. If it is affecting your quality of life and you’re not sure if there’s anything that can be done about it, I would encourage you to seek some answers because there very well may be a fairly simple solution.

The most important thing for me as s shoulder surgeon is not necessarily “fixing your problem” but guiding you to make a choice that makes sense for you.

D r. M ena M esiha started practice in Fall River in September 2013 after training at the Cleveland Clinic, Mass General Hospital, and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He specializes in rotator cuff repair surgery shoulder replacement surgery, and the nonoperative management of the whole spectrum of shoulder problems.

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If we are more attentive to our health we will have less pain, we will need to take fewer pills, and we will need to see doctors less often For the large majority of patients I see in the office, surgery is not only unnecessary but could potentially be harmful compared to much safer and more effective treatments like anti-inflammatory medicines and physical therapy. Once patients are pain-free and they have a home exercise program to do, the best way to never see me again is for them to continue doing the exercises for the rest of their lives.

Most of us are not very good at eating healthy and exercising regularly, and even doctors are sometimes the worst patients. However, it does not change the reality that if we are more attentive to our health we will have less pain, we will need to take fewer pills, and we will need to see doctors less often.

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the weekends, then it may be worth continuing the conversation about the time and effort investment that is required to have a successful rotator cuff surgery.

Therefore, even those people with whom I have a conversation about surgery, it is never “you need surgery” but “you should consider surgery” with reasons as to why surgery may be a reasonable option. For all of you living with shoulder pain and are worried about going to see a shoulder surgeon because you don’t want to be told that you need surgery, I want you to repeat after me: “there is no such thing as needing to have surgery on your shoulder.” It is always a choice that is made in light of risks, benefts, and alternatives.

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For a complete

calendar of events, visit coastalmags.com

E xtra! E xtra!

In brief…

Eliz abeth Morse Read

The holiday season is just around the corner! Cooler weather and shorter nights bring us all indoors for handing out Halloween treats, cooking Thanksgiving feasts, and decking the halls for Christmas! Indoor concerts and choirs, Oktoberfests and holiday crafts fairs, bundle-up outdoor activities – there’s something for everyone! Remember our veterans on November 11, and all those less fortunate than ourselves – and don’t forget to change your clocks on November 3!

Food, festivals & farmers markets

Go on a “Vineyard Voyage” on November 2 with the Providence Riverboat Company – sample wine and food pairings from Gooseneck Vineyards! For details, visit providenceriverboat.com or call 401-580-2628.

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Enjoy the 20th Annual Harvest Festival on November 9 at Greenvale Vineyards in Portsmouth! For details, call 401-847-3777 or go to greenvale.com.

Check out the Scratch Series: Classic French on November 14 and Foods to Gift December 12 at the Newport Vineyards in

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Middletown! For more info, call 401-8485161 or go to newportvineyards.com.

Don’t miss “America’s Hometown” Thanksgiving Festival November 22-24 in Plymouth! Pilgrim-led waterfront tours, parade, concert, traditional food, crafts, and demonstrations! For info, call

508-746-1818 or go to usathanksgiving. com or seeplymouth.com.

Savor the flavors of restaurants in Newport and Bristol Counties during Newport Restaurant Week November 1-10! Go to discovernewport.org/ newport-restaurant-week for details.

Head for the Newport Vineyards in Middletown on Saturdays to visit the Aquidneck Growers Farmers Market yearround! For more info, call 401-848-5161 or go to newportvineyards.com.

Take the family to the monthly Open Farm Days at Round The Bend Farm in Dartmouth! Grass-fed meats, local veggies, honey, maple syrup, and botanicals!

For dates and more info, call 508-9385127 or visit roundthebendfarm.org.

Sharing the bounty

Help fight hunger! Volunteer your time at Sharing the Harvest Community Garden behind the Dartmouth YMCA! For more info, call 508-993-3361.

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

Drop off your donations of animal foods and needed supplies during the “Holiday for Animals” drive November 26 to January 28 at the Natural Resources Trust of Easton’s office! All donations will be distributed to local shelters and the Animal Protection Center of Southeastern MA. For more info, call 508-238-6049 or go to nrtofeaston.org.

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 pickup. Visit mybrotherskeeper.org or Call 774-3054577.

Day-tripping

Bedford Whaling National Historical Park! For a schedule of walking tours and special events, visit nps.gov/nebe.

Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for the Cultural Road Trip to Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” December 15!

For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

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Discover colonial Newport by going on a Holiday Lantern Tour beginning November 23! For info, call 401-8418770 or go to newporthistorytours.org.

If you’re 50 or older, check out the day trips sponsored by the New Bedford Senior Travel Program! There’s the Back Roads of Central Massachusetts November 6 and the Christmas Festival at Boston’s Seaport November 8. For info and reservations, call 508-991-6171 or visit coastlinenb.org/news/seniorscope.

Visit Plimouth Plantation, where Thanksgiving began! Enjoy a “New England Harvest Feast” or a “Thanksgiving Homestyle Buffet” on selected dates in November! For details, call 508-746-1622 or go to plimouth.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.

Family fun

It’s time to sharpen the ice skates (or rent them)! For schedules and info about indoor skating in Fall River’s Driscoll Arena (508-679-3274), New Bedford’s Hetland Arena (508-999-9051), Taunton’s Aleixo Arena (508-824-4987) or Plymouth’s Armstrong Arena (508-746-8825), go to fmcicesports.com.

Take the kids for the Turkey Trot on November 16 at the Lloyd Center for the Environment in Dartmouth! For info and pre-registration, go to lloydcenter.org.

Don’t miss The Little Theatre’s production of “Shrek: The Musical” November 14-17 at BCC in Fall River! For info and tickets, call 508-675-1852 or go to littletheatre.net.

Register now for the Sippican Lands Trust’s Cuba Tour on November 2-9! For reservations and info, call 508-748-3080 or go to slt.org.

Remember our veterans on November 11! Explore the region’s military history at the Fort Taber-Fort Rodman Military Museum! For info, call 508-994-3938 or visit forttaber.org.

Explore the city’s history at the New

Get in touch with nature at the Nor-

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Continued from previous page

Royal hartigan dances to his own beat.

Learn about “Preparing the Garden for Winter” on November 1 at Blithewold Mansion and Gardens in Bristol!

For more info, call 401-253-2707 or go to blithewold.org.

Check out the exhibits, musical performances and dock-u-mentaries at the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center!

Dave Penney will perform on November 10. Check out the new exhibits and educational programs “F/V Innovations,” exploring the evolution of vessels and gear, through March. For more info, visit fishingheritagecenter.org or call 508-9938894.

Visit the special exhibit of J.J. Audubon’s “Obsession Untamed” at Rosecliff in Newport through November 3! For details, call 401-847-1000 or visit newportmansions.org.

Brave the outdoors and go ice skating (and bumper cars!) at The Providence Rink at the Alex & Ani City Center – twice the size of the Rockefeller Center rink in New York! For more info, go to theprovidencerink.com or call 401-331-5544. man Bird Sanctuary in Middletown!

Check out the Fort and Shelter Building workshop on November 9! Take a free guided Sunday Bird Walk! For details, go to normanbirdsanctuary.org or call 401-846-2577.

Enjoy free family fun and entertainment on AHA! Nights in New Bedford! The November 14 theme is “Made in NB.” The December 12 theme is “City Sidewalks.”

For details, go to ahanewbedford.org or call 508-996-8253.

Go on a guided Seal Watch boat tour from November through April with Save the Bay, departing from Bowen’s Ferry Landing in Newport! For a schedule and info, call 401-203-SEAL (7325) or visit savebay.org/seals.

Go on lantern-led haunted history tours of Newport with “Ghosts of Newport”! For more info, call 401-8418600 or go to ghostsofnewport.com.

Don’t miss the indoor planetarium shows on Saturdays and Sundays yearround, and daily during school vacations, at the Museum of Natural History in Roger Williams Park in Providence! For more details, go to provideneri.gov/ museum.

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Check out the hockey and basketball games at the Dunkin Donuts Center in Providence! Don’t miss the 2019 Rhode Island Comic Con November 1-3! For info, go to dunkindonutscenter.com.

Let your kids explore the Whaling Museum in New Bedford – check out the Discovery Center! Dress up the kids and head for the Whaling Museum to visit the Haunted Whale Ship! For dates and more information, call 508-997-0046 or go to whalingmuseum.org.

Find out what’s happening at Roger Williams Park in Providence! Explore the walking trails, biking, boating, playgrounds or ride the Carousel! Visit the Botanical Center, the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, or the Zoo! For details, go to rwpconservancy.org.

One of a kind events

Head for the annual Plant Sale at Haskell Public Gardens in New Bedford on October 19! For more info, go to thetrustees.org or destinationnewbedford. org.

See what’s on display at the Marion Art Center! Plan ahead for the Holiday Shop December 7-8! For tickets, call 508-7481266 or visit marionartcenter.org.

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Quench your thirst for learning – and beer! – at the free monthly New Bedford Science Café lectures and discussions held at the Greasy Luck Brew Pub in downtown New Bedford! For info, call 508-984-1955 or go to nbsciencecafe.com.

Be amazed by WaterFire in Providence on November 2! For more info, go to waterfire.org.

Go on the guided House Tour on November 10 or enjoy afternoon tea in the parlors on December 1-2, 8-9 at the whaling-era mansion and gardens at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House in New Bedford!

For more info, call 508-997-1401 or go to rjdmuseum.org.

All the world’s a stage

Don’t miss the “Friday Night Live!”

Comedy Series at the Seaport Inn & Marina in Fairhaven! Enjoy Joe Devito and Ken Rogerson November 22! For more info, call 508-997-1281 or go to seaportinnandmarina.com.

Don’t miss the production of “Relatively Speaking” on October 25-27, November 1-3, 8-9 at the Alley Theatre in Middleboro! For tickets and more info, visit nemasketriverproductions.com.

The Attleboro Community Theatre will perform “The Man Who Came to Dinner” November 29, and December 1, 6-8, and 13-15. For more info and tickets, go to attleborocommunitytheatre.com.

Don’t miss The Little Theatre of Fall River’s production of “Cabaret”

November 29 to December 9, “Shrek: The Musical” November 14-17 at BCC in Fall River! “Starting Here Starting Now” will be performed December 5-15. For info and tickets, call 508-675-1852 or go to littletheatre.net.

Get into the holiday spirit by watching a performance of “It’s a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play” December 7-22 at the Plymouth Center for the Arts! For info, visit americanatheatrecompany.org.

Check out the new season of The Wilbury Group in Providence! “Waiting for Godot” will be performed through October 20. “Dance Nation” and “You Got Older” will be performed November 21 to December 22. For more info, visit thewilburygroup.org.

Don’t miss “Postcards from Heaven with medium Maureen Hancock” November 2 and December 7 at The Alley Theatre in Middleboro! Enjoy “A Wicked Drag Cabaret” on November 16 and December 20! For details, call 508-9461071 or go to burtwoodschool.com.

Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for “Once: The Musical” October 26, Halloween movies “The Phantom of the Opera October 27, “The Witches of Eastwick” October 28, and “Rocky Horror Picture Show” October 31, “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” November 4, movie “Good Morning, Vietnam” November 11, movie “Napoleon Dynamite” November 16, NB Festival Theatre “The Best of Times” November 30, “A Christmas Carol” December 7, movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” December 9! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Enjoy a dinner-theatre night out at the Newport Playhouse! “Boeing! Boeing!” will be performed through November 17.

“Newport to Nashville” musicians will perform November 14 and December 12.

“A Christmas Comedy” will be performed November 14 to December 31. For more information, call 401-848-7529 or go to newportplayhouse.com.

Find out what’s on stage at the Providence Performing Arts Center! Don’t miss “Aladdin” through November 10, Acrobats of Cirque-Tacular November 24, “Come From Away” December 3-8! For info, call 401-2787 or go to ppacri.org.

new season at Trinity Rep in Providence!

“The Prince of Providence” will be performed through October 20! “A Christmas Carol” starts November 7. For tickets and info, call 401-351-4242 or go to trinityrep.com.

JEANNE FULLER-JONES

Classical acts

Don’t miss the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra and the Chamber Music Series at the Zeiterion! There’s Prokofiev Rules November 2, Peter and the Wolf Family Concert November 3, and the NBSO’s Holiday Pops Family Concert December 14! For details, visit nbsymphony.org.

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Listen to “Take Five,” performed by the South Coast Chamber Music Series, on November 23 at Saint Gabriel’s Church in Marion, November 24 at Saint Peter’s Church in South Dartmouth. For info, call 508-999-6276 or go to nbsymphony. org/southcoast-chamber-music-series.

Get ready for the 95th season of the Fall River Symphony Orchestra! Listen to works of Rimsky-Korsakov and Shostakovich at the Fall Concert on November 3 at Bristol Community College – plan ahead for the Holiday Pops Concert on December 15! For more details, go to fallriversymphonyorchestra.org.

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Don’t miss the Pilgrim Festival Chorus’s Christmas concert “Wintersong” December 7-8 at Saint Bonaventure Church in Plymouth, and its traditional “Messiah and Carol Sing” on December 20 at the First Congregational Church at the Green in Middleboro. For more info, go to pilgrimfestivalchorus.org.

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The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra will perform “Romantic Tchaikovsky” on November 16, Handel’s “Messiah” on December 14 with the Providence Singers. For more info, call 401-248-7000 or visit riphil.org.

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Enjoy the new season of Concerts at the Point in Westport with a performance by the Frisson Ensemble on November 3! The Attacca Quartet will perform December 8. For more info, call 508-6360698 or go to concertsatthepoint.org.

Enjoy the new season of Festival Ballet Providence! Don’t miss “Up Close on Hope” November 1-10, “The Nutcracker” December 13-15! For tickets, call 401-3531129 or go to festivalballetprovidence.org.

Mark your calendar for the start of the

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Continued from previous page Plan ahead for the Arts in the Village concerts at Goff Memorial Hall in Rehoboth! Enjoy pianist Matthew Graybil November 9! For tickets, call 508-2523031 or go to rehobothantiquarian.org.

South Coast sounds

Head for Running Brook Vineyards in Dartmouth for free live music every weekend year-round! For info, go to runningbrookwine.com/entertainment or call 508-985-1998.

The Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River has a fabulous lineup this fall – don’t miss Felix Cavalieri’s Rascals October 25, Flying Burrito Brothers November 1, Coco Montoya November 9, Vanilla Fudge November 16, Booker T. Jones November 22, Roomful of Blues, November 29, Sarah Borges November 30, The Subdudes December 5, Squirrel Nut Zippers December 7, Anders Osbourne December 11 – and more! Visit narrowscenter.com or call 508-324-1926 for a complete schedule.

Listen to monthly concerts at the Marion Music Hall! Don’t miss the 440 Gypsy Jazz October 20 or Peter Stone, Butch McCarthy and Ken Richards November 17! For tickets, call 508-3532150 or visit sixstringmusiccompany.com.

Head for the Zeiterion in New Bedford for “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” November 4, Taj Express: The Bollywood Musical Review November 17, NB Festival Theatre “The Best of Times” November 30, Ten Tenors December 5, “A Christmas Carol” December 7, Popa Chubby December 12, NBSO’s Holiday Pops Family Concert December 14! For info and tickets, call 508-994-2900 or go to zeiterion.org.

Get back to your musical roots with Common Fence Music! Don’t miss Honeysuckle on November 16 at Hope & Main in Warren! For tickets, call 401-6835085 or go to commonfencemusic.org.

Find out what’s on tap and on the menu – and who’s playing on stage – at the Greasy Luck Brew Pub in downtown New Bedford! Don’t miss Powerman 5000 October 27, Pearl Jam/Green Day Tribute November 1, Aquanett November 2, LA Guns, November 9 – and more! For more info, call 774-425-4600 or go to greasyluckbrewpub.com or vaultnb.com.

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Squirrel Nut Zippers | December 7 | the N arrows

Head for Pilgrim Memorial Hall in Plymouth for great entertainment!

Don’t miss Frank Santos Jr. November 16, Vienna Boys Choir December 6, Plymouth Philharmonic Holiday Pops December 14-15 – and more! For tickets and info, call 800-514-3849 or go to memorialhall.com.

Don’t miss Common Fence Music’s Third Annual Fall Moon Festival at the Casino Theatre in Newport on November 2! For tickets and info, call 401-683-5085 or visit commonfencemusic.org.

Find out who’s on stage at the Spire Center for the Performing Arts of Greater Plymouth! Don’t miss John Sebastian November 2, The The Band Band November 8, Duke Robillard November 9, Slambovian Circus of Dreams November 15, Spyro Gyra November 21, Aztec Two-Step November 23, Wicked Funny Holiday Concert December 13 – and more! For tickets and info, call 508-7464488 or visit spirecenter.org.

Get back to your musical roots with Common Fence Music! Don’t miss Front Country November 16 and Sweetback Sisters’ Country Christmas Spectacular December 14 at CFP Arts in Portsmouth!

For tickets and info, call 401-683-5085 or go to commonfencemusic.org.

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Head for the Fete Music Hall in Providence for some great music! For a line-up and more info, call 401-383-1112 or go to fetemusic.com.

Find out what’s on stage at the Providence Performing Arts Center! Don’t miss “Aladdin” through November 10, Il Divo November 19, Acrobats of Cirque-Tacular November 24, Boston Pops November 30, “Come From Away” December 3-8, FBP “The Nutcracker” December 13-15! For info, call 401-2787 or go to ppacri.org.

Find out who’s on stage the District Center for the Arts in Taunton! Don’t miss Playing Dead November 2, Trinity November 9, Bargain November 16, Completely Unchained November 22, The Fools November 30, The 60’s Band Holiday Show December 6, Joshua Tree December 7, Fat City Band December 14 – and more! For tickets, call 508-386-9413 or visit thedistrictcenterforarts.com.

Head up to The Met at Hope Artiste Village in Providence to hear some great music! For a line-up and details, call 401-729-1005 or visit themetri.com.

Check out what’s going on at the Sandywoods Center for the Arts in Tiverton! Don’t miss the Becky Chace Band November 16, Cheap Sneakers November 23! For a complete schedule

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E xplore the outdoors

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, snowshoe, or cross-country ski, can be found at savebuzzardsbay. org/discover – and check out thetrustees. org and massaudubon.org. To learn more about state parks and wildlife refuges in Rhode Island, go to asri.org, riparks.com, or stateparks.com/rhode_island.

Wander through Parsons Reserve or take a stroll through Paskamansett Woods, nature reserves operated by the Dartmouth Natural Resources Trust. Don’t miss the free Women’s Walk through Paskamansett Woods on November 17, or the Women’s Walk at Dodge Reserve December 15! For more 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.

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 info, visit savebuzzardsbay.org.

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

Where friends have met since 1933 OPEN Sunday – Wednesday 4:00pm - 1:00am Thursday – Saturday 4:00pm - 2:00am

Go on a guided hike, attend a demonstration/lecture or take a mansion tour at Borderland State Park in Easton! For more info, call 508-238-6566 or go to friendsofborderland.org.

Reservation required for private parties.

34 Franklin St., Fall River, MA 508.673.2982

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

Please note all times and locations listed are subject to change. Use the contact information provided to confirm details with event managers before planning your activities.

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PRIME SEASON

Take a look – it’s in a book Paul K andarian

In these times of technology-precipitated social isolation that far too often separates us, I got a lovely reminder of where some oldfashioned humanity thrives in forms simple, articulate, literary, and essential.

A library.

I drive quite a bit and love to read, but usually am too tired to read at night without dozing off. Books on CD is an obvious alternative, and the library is a place for that. I just started frequenting the Elizabeth Taber Library in Marion, a library bearing the name of its founder, who has been called “The fairy Godmother of Marion” for her beneficence, giving money to create this now-historic structure in 1872. It was and remains an intellectual cornerstone of this seaside town, home to thousands of books that tickle and fuel the imaginations of young and old.

I was wandering the aisles recently, surveying the shelves of audio books, waiting for one to leap out at me, and one did: I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban. I’ve just started listening and am already swept up in the story of perseverance, courage, and dignity.

I’m not sure why it leaped out at me but it’s likely that as of late, I – like many others – have been consumed by the denigration of America by those who abuse their power. To read/listen to the account of one incredibly brave human who stood up for herself and her people and her country and her world – it gives hope to us all.

And we find these and many other voices in the library, where words live, ideas thrive, and freedom reigns supreme. This is especially important to remember in these days when tyranny threatens to subvert or reverse those freedoms, where the freedom of speech and the freedom of the press scare those who wield a brutal oppressive hand down to the very dark core of their very dark souls as they try to wrest our freedoms

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from us as a way of controlling what they cannot: our power.

That is a power that comes from the people, not from those charged with our care. Power is only what you assume others to have. If you don’t assume they have it, they do not have it. No amount of squelching our rights, or dehumanizing our ranks comprised of mixed races and ethnicities, either born here or from abroad, or trying to drive a sociological wedge between us via feverish late-night, ignorance-fueled Tweets, will take that power from us.

We are America.

And we are better than what is now paradoxically in charge of America that is trying to destroy America.

We are America. And we are better than what is now paradoxically in charge of America that is trying to destroy America.

I became aware of the power of the written word as a child, growing up in Seekonk, visiting a tiny structure known as the Smart Memorial Library on Fall River Avenue, getting there by bike from my home a mile away (that itself seemingly a lost tradition – biking anywhere as a small child not hovered over by parents).

It was a beautiful building, at once energizing and frightening, imposing in its soaring ceilings and ornate, dark woodwork and frames and shelves, but alive with the guarantee of imagination engaged, empowered, and enhanced. I spent countless happy hours of my youth poring over books, notably my favorite series, The Happy Hollisters, about a family that happily solved mysteries, and singular books like

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The Magic Tunnel, which sparked a lifelong fascination with time travel, a book about two kids finding a tunnel in a New York subway that flashed them back to Peter Stuyvesant’s New Amsterdam.

That library, those books, maybe that time of my life and America’s, all of it ignited a spark of the need to know more about everything and anything. For the longest time of my childhood and indeed into my young adulthood, I’d literally get angry not knowing enough about something that interested me. I was ticked off at my own ignorance until I learned, then moved on to become angry about not knowing about something else.

For example, I’d be driving with my parents, looking at rock formations, mountains, rivers, the overall landscape and ache to know how it all came to be, what this stone was called, how that ridge was formed, and it hurt not to know. But I’d find out, learn, be happy in the new knowledge, and move to the next empty bucket to fill with information.

Walking into a library gives me the same feeling, the same rush of energy, the same ache to know, as it did then. Here are millions of words waiting to be read.

Here are countless thoughts waiting to be discovered. Here are boundless intellectual flints to spark our imaginations. Here are voices waiting to be heard.

I listen now to I Am Malala and hear our voices in hers. Tyrants try to quash ours, but we must remember they are a minority, frightened by us, the majority. But like Malala’s voice, ours will not be silenced; we are a free people entitled to speak by our Constitution and our dignity.

When you walk into a library, you hear all these voices at once, a chorus that plays like a concert for our spirits and souls and shared humanity. Stop in and listen. It is rather quite beautiful

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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Clifton

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

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