The South Coast Insider - November 2014

SPECIAL HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

November 2014 Vol. 18 / No. 11

the south coast coastalmags.com

FALL IN LOVE FORAGING

FUN

FIND THE

BRISTOL

SALUTing

WOMEN

PERFECT GIFT

VETERANS BCC

EXPANDING

BUZZ

WORK OUT FINDING

FLUFFY & FIDO

Mixing business with pleasure The tale of a dog Linda Morad, senior business development specialist, called on a customer recently and came home with a dog!

It might have been fate that brought her and her new canine friend Heidi together that day.

And maybe it was that same fate that brought St. Anne’s Credit Union to mind when the Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River started thinking about financing.

It all started out simply enough. A New Bedford animal control officer knew Linda, knew about St. Anne’s Credit Union, and was very familiar with Forever Paws, a shelter that protects and cares for stray, abused and abandoned animals from throughout the area. A referral from that animal control officer brought all three — actually, ultimately four — together.

Forever Paws contacted Linda to inquire about a business line of credit. She headed to Fall River to drop off a loan application. That’s when a Shelter hound named Heidi jumped into her lap and then wouldn’t leave her side during the entire visit.

Linda, Heidi, and Erin at the Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River.

Bottom line? Linda and Shelter manager Erin Pacheco ultimately swapped applications. One was for a line of credit; the other for a pet adoption!

Both applications were approved. Heidi is now an official member of the Morad family. Forever Paws is a happy member of the St. Anne’s Credit Union family.

“I was proud to be able to meet the banking needs of Forever Paws,” says Linda.

“It’s a wonderful organization that, like St. Anne’s Credit Union, is making a difference in our community.”

Ready for a local banker who’s the perfect match for your business?

Call Linda Morad today at (508) 324-7398.

“We’re making a difference.”

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Join Battleship Cove on Sunday, December 7, 2014, at 2:00pm to experience a historic WWII Navy Christmas feast catered by Al Mac’s Galley.

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contents In every issue

BUSINESS BUZZ

4 From the Publisher 32 Dateline South Coast

22 A thriving campus

COVER STORY

30 Upgrades to public transportation

By Elizabeth Morse Read

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12

14

18

Off-street parking (16 spaces), handicap accessible, separate zoned heating (gas HVAC), electric, cable, and city water and sewer make this downtown Fall River location a prime deal in a prime area. Walk to the courthouses, library, City Hall, Registry of Deeds and other businesses—plus it’s conveniently located near Interstate 195.

Previously leased as a doctor’s office.

Call now to arrange your lease:

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Stay healthy

By Elizabeth Morse Read

Book gift guide

By LAURA LATOUR

Unique toys

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

By Sean McCarthy

26 Get insured

By Jay Pateakos

By STEVE SMITH

ON MY MIND

38 Get rich quick

By Paul E. Kandarian

By MICHAEL J. DECICCO

Meet Bob Bromley

By MEL B. YOKEN

THINGS TO Do

10

By JOYCE ROWLEY

16

By Brian J. Lowney

Gathering guide

Adopt a pet

20 Visit Bristol

By Michael J. Vieira

Bernard P. Giroux 150 Purchase Street, Fall River, MA 508-677-9500 Office 774-273-3278 Mobile

NOVEMBER 2014

24 Pretty pugilists

By SEAN MCCARTHY

ON THE COVER

South Coasters have a special relationship with fall – it’s in our blood to “fall” in love with the season.

Share that love with the people you care about most with our handy holiday gift guide, and be sure to enjoy the crisp weather while it lasts!

Save thousands in tax credits & rebates!

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

Replace your old gas-fired heating system

FROM THE PUBLISHER November 2014 / Vol. 18 / No. 11 Published by

Coastal Communications Corp.

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Ljiljana Vasiljevic

The majestic foliage of fall will soon be a thing of the past. We are closer to our first snowfall than our last visit to the beach. No need to fret. Despite the cooler temperatures and shorter days, there are still a multitude of outings and events to look forward to in the final weeks of 2014.

Editor

Derek Vital

Online Editor Paul Letendre

Contributors

Michael J. DeCicco, Paul E. Kandarian, Laura LaTour, Tom Lopes, Brian J. Lowney, Sean McCarthy, Elizabeth Morse Read, Jay Pateakos, Joyce Rowley, Steve Smith, Michael J. Vieira, Mel B. Yoken

The South Coast Insider is published monthly for visitors and residents of the South Coast area. The Insider is distributed free of charge from Mount Hope Bay to Buzzards Bay. All contents copyright ©2014 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.

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The holidays are right around the corner. Anyone finished with their shopping? Haven’t started? Join the crowd. You want to be as healthy as possible for all the family gatherings and parties with friends that are coming up. Elizabeth Morse Read provides us with some helpful hints for remaining in tip top shape on page 6.

If you’ve visited downtown New Bedford lately, you’ve undoubtedly witnessed the vibrant scene that is on display. A major contributor to this flurry of activity is the partnership between Bristol Community College and the Whaling City. Learn more about BCC’s downtown campus and the impact it has had on businesses in the area in Sean McCarthy’s article on page 22.

History buffs have an endless supply of material in the South Coast. People travel hundreds of miles to visit Battleship Cove in Fall River and the Whaling Museum in New Bedford. A hidden gem is located in New Bedford’s South End. Learn more about the Military Museum and its curator Bob Bromley in Mel B. Yoken’s story on page 18.

A special thanks go out to all active and retired military personnel. Make a point to honor these brave men and women during Veterans’ Day services this month. Don’t forget to hit the polls for the general election on November 4. Happy Thanksgiving to all our readers and a sincere thanks to our sponsors.

The South Coast Insider 144 Purchase Street Fall River, MA 02722

Phone

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Ljiljana Vasiljevic

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www.coastalmags.com

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editor@coastalmags.com Our advertisers make this publication possible— please support them.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

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www.simcockfarm.com The South Coast Insider / November 2014

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cover story

Tips for a

healthy November

BY Elizabeth Morse Read

November is when you traditionally “winterize” your life—you get your annual check-up, schedule seasonal maintenance for your car and your home, pack away the lawn chairs and get out the rakes and shovels. But it’s also a month that presents unique health and safety challenges, so read on.

Beware of the “bugs”

Allergies and mosquitos may come and go, but November brings out the viruses and bacteria.

One in six people will get the flu this year —why be one of them? Getting a flu shot when you go for your annual check-up is a must-do for everybody, as early as possible. If your kids catch the sniffles, keep a very close eye on them, especially if they have asthma. There’s a dangerous new virus out there that’s sending children to emergency rooms in record numbers.

Common-sense practices can minimize your risk of catching (or spreading) all those upper-respiratory ailments. For instance, if you’re sneezing and coughing or feeling feverish, don’t be the Grinch who brings it to work or school or the birthday party. Don’t sit next to bleary-eyed, sniffling people at church, at the movies, in the classroom, or on the bus. Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, not into your hand—and wash your hands frequently. If hand-washing isn’t always possible, then carry a small bottle of sanitizer or sani-wipes in your pocket or purse, right next to the packet of Kleenex.

And who knows who touched that public doorknob or railing or faucet just before you did?? Many stores and supermarkets now place sani-wipe dispensers right next to the shopping carriages—use them to clean off the carriage handles before you touch them or (God forbid!) put your teething toddler in the kiddie seat.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

Don’t eat purple turkeys

Speaking of “bugs”…one of my least-fond childhood memories is of an elderly relative who used to serve “purple turkeys” on Thanksgiving. Burnt on the outside, but almost raw near the bone, filled with soggy, lukewarm stuffing that reeked of Bell’s Seasoning. I’d spend the rest of my four-day weekend in the bathroom if we ate at her house.

Do your guests a favor and use a food thermometer to test the internal temperature of that bird and stuffing, okay?

Food-poisoning bacteria grow rapidly at lukewarm temperatures. Think of all those funky-looking appetizers, dips, devilled eggs, wings and bacon-wrapped scallops at the holiday party.

How long have they been sitting there on the conference table? Avoid public buffets, salad bars and potluck dinners. Rule of thumb: If you don’t know or trust the cook, don’t eat it. You’ll be glad you didn’t. On the flip side, don’t let cooked foods “cool off” on your countertop after Thanksgiving dinner — wrap and refrigerate them immediately so that bacteria can’t flourish.

Food poisoning is no vacation-nightmare joke — and it happens a lot at holiday time. Nasty cases of e. coli or salmonella can result if you’re not totally scrupulous about food-prep safety. All of your “fresh” vegetables and fruits need to be rinsed, even if the packaging says “triple washed.”

Use separate knives, cutting boards and prep bowls for vegetables and for meats/seafood/dairy

when you prepare multi-course holiday meals.

Wipe down counters and wash your hands after handling raw meat, seafood or eggs. And always serve cooked foods (especially meats) on clean dishware. Never reuse prep bowls they touched raw or were marinated in.

If you’ve invited a crowd, ask beforehand about food allergies and medical/religious dietary restrictions. You don’t want a guest going into anaphylactic shock just because you forgot to mention that you’ve got almonds in the green beans or baby shrimp in the Jello mold. Offer plenty of unadorned vegetable dishes and hold back on the salt when you cook.

Finally, don’t hoard all those yummy leftovers and “doggie bags”—follow the “4-Day Rule” and toss anything that’s still stashed in your ‘fridge four days after the big event. Even if it still smells and looks edible, it’s probably crawling with invisible, gut-wrenching microbes by then. So mark your calendar: November 15 is National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day (You need room for all the leftovers, right?), and November 29 is National Throw Out Your Leftovers Day.

Watch what you eat!

Okay, when you had that annual check-up and got your flu shot, how were your cholesterol and blood sugar levels? Your blood pressure and weight? Get a head start on your New Year’s resolution and commit to not over-indulging in November. Coldweather comfort food is not your friend.

First of all, never go food shopping when you’re hungry — you’ll buy all the wrong foods for all the wrong reasons. Cut back on eating or drinking anything that came out of a drive-thru window or gets delivered to your door. If you’re invited to a feast, fill up on healthy nibbles and water beforehand.

In other words, don’t show up starving. And never, ever skip breakfast on Thanksgiving Day. At holiday meals, half-fill your plate with multicolored vegetables before you reach for the bread basket, mashed potatoes or gravy boat. Skip anything that looks “creamy,” deep-fried, contains mini-marshmallows or is drowning in butter sauce.

When someone passes you the turkey platter, pick the dark meat and don’t eat the cholesterol-laden turkey skin, no matter how crispy. Keep in mind that alcohol is fattening, especially when added to eggnog or imbibed to excess. Choose either a little butter here, a little gravy there, or a small slice of pie—but not all three. Your arteries, liver and waistline will thank you.

Turning up the heat

November is when we start using fireplaces and cranking up the thermostat. But wait a minute, did you get your chimney cleaned and your heating system checked this year? With the holidays coming and guests expected, do you have a fire-screen in front of the fireplace? Are the batteries fresh in all your smoke alarms and CO2 detectors?

If you need to use backup generators or kerosene heaters, are they safely-placed and properly ventilated? Are your electrical outlets overloaded with holiday decoration plugs and electronic devices?

Put suitable fire extinguishers around your home — near the fireplace, in the kitchen, in the garage.

My purple-turkey relative would slow-cook that bird in the oven overnight. For everyone’s sake, cook that turkey at the proper temperature while you’re awake, if only in case there’s a grease fire.

And, for God’s sake, forget about deep-frying the turkey on the back porch or using the hibachi in the garage, okay?

White skies, black ice

November weather on the South Coast can get ugly on short notice. The outside temperature drops dramatically, especially at night. The hours of sunlight shrink, and the precipitation shifts from gentle showers to lumpy fog, slush and 6 inches of partially-cloudy.

Frost makes porch steps and sidewalks slippery, especially if there’s a layer of dead leaves on them.

The “wind chill factor” can trigger frostbite or hypothermia if you’re not dressed properly. Your driving

skills need to be sharp, especially once the sun’s gone down and taken the temperature with it.

Black ice forms on bridges and overpasses before it turns roads and parking lots into skating rinks.

Stock up now on “Icy-Melt” and windshield de-icer spray. Put a bag of kitty litter and a small shovel in the trunk of your car for when you get stuck in sudden snow. Renew your AAA membership for when your battery dies. Make sure your tires are in good shape—you’ll need all the traction you can get out of those treads. Replace your wiper blades and switch to anti-freeze windshield wiper fluid.

Being prepared for November weather is a lot like being prepared for a hurricane. If you don’t own one of those Emergency Preparedness Radios, buy one right now. The newest models come with all sorts of handy power-outage features.

Always keep your cell phone charged and your gas tank filled. Stock up on batteries, flashlights, candles, LED lanterns, surge protection strips — you know you’re going to lose electrical power at some point during the winter storms, so why not be prepared?

Chase away the November doldrums

Let’s face it: November can be a very gray and gloomy month around here. It can also be a stressful time physically and psychologically, especially if all of the holiday hoopla is a challenge.

So it’s important to stay healthy and active to counteract the inevitable November blues, blahs and restless nights. Sure, you’d rather be playing golf or strolling through a street fair, but November is what it is, so go find a good book or a closet to clean or a pile of leaves to rake. Stay busy.

The good news is that it’s not all in your head. It’s a real medical condition called S.A.D.— Seasonal Affective Disorder. Daylight Saving Time ends on November 2— your body’s biochemical rhythms will get thrown off as a result. Our access to Vitamin D-rich sunshine gets shorter, and many people will feel inexplicably moody or almost jet-lagged as a result. (Talk it over with your doctor when you get that check-up and flu shot.)

But you can counteract the November blues! Eat foods that can boost your mood (fish, dark greens, citrus fruits, beans, tomatoes, squashes), and cut back on carbs and alcohol. Take advantage of available daylight by working or walking outdoors at midday. And turn off those electronic/digital devices several hours before bedtime—their dim “blue” light disrupts your brain’s sleep patterns.

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The South Coast Insider / November 2014

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Fabulous GIFTS

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1 Sweet Karma Rose Bouquet $37 Sweet Karma Cakes, (774) 271-6189, sweetkarmacakes.com Perfect for any celebration, the Sweet Karma Rose Bouquet is fifteen of your favorite cupcakes arranged into a beautiful floral centerpiece. Wow your guests this holiday! Gift certificates also available.

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2 Glass Owls $60 Kate & Company, Bristol, RI (401) 253-3117, Find us on Facebook From clothing to chocolate and from lamps to handbags, this boutique has you covered if you’re looking for that nostalgic small-town shopping experience. Whether it’s one of the pictured glass owls, a new dog collar, or a beautiful scarf, you’re sure to find something tasteful to make the perfect gift.

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3 Hand-Beaded Bracelet $18 The Thirsty Crow, North Dartmouth, MA (508) 994-9434, thethirstycrow.com Find us on Facebook If you’re looking to avoid the ordinary this holiday season, then The Thirsty Crow features amazing one-of-a-kind handbeaded pieces like the bracelet shown, along with unusual costume jewelry you won’t find anywhere else.

4 Refashion Your Jewelry Studio by the Sea Historic Four Corners, Tiverton, RI (401) 639-4348, studiobytheseari.com This gold ring is an example of artist Peter Tirpaecks’ “redirecting” process, in which he refashions the components from older rings into entirely different designs. Engage yourself in designing jewelry that preserves the symbolism and value of what you own.

5 Pedego Comfort Cruiser $1,995+ Pedego Electric Bikes RI, Bristol, RI 401-675-2000, pedegori.com What better way to start the new year than on a custom electric bicycle? With speeds of up to 20 mph and a range of up to 40 miles, these electric bikes are the cleanest, quietest, and coolest way to get around. They come in array of colors, sure to satisfy your tastes.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

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Fabulous GIFTS

6 SPA SERVICES & SKIN CARE GIFT SET $99 Cristallo Spa at Hillside CC, Rehoboth, MA (508) 342-5735, cristallospa.com Find us on Facebook Treat your spa-going friends to either a “Time Out” massage OR a Mani-Pedicure at this luxury spa in a country club setting.

Also included is a Farm House Fresh skin care products gift to reduce holiday stress.

Custom gift packages also available!

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7 Permanent Botanicals Wreath $135 Ray’s Flower Shop, Fall River, MA (508) 673-6097, raysflowershopne.com A must-have for any holiday bash! This beautiful wreath includes elements of dried birch branch, green sunflowers, avocado and mullet adorned with a rustic burlap bow. Ray’s Flower Shop specializes in coordinating arrangements to suit your style and budget. Visit Terry in the showroom for more creative holiday displays.

8 Brushed Silver Blue Stone Necklace $75 Judith Klein Art Gallery, New Bedford, MA (508) 965-7396, judithkleinart.com Judith Klein, an acclaimed artist, spotlights top work from invited artists: jewelry, ceramics, sculptures, paintings, prints, textiles, and photography. Everything in the store is affordable as well as unique and beautiful. The gallery recently moved to a new location, 127 W. Rodney French Blvd.

(Door #31) 9 Rolling OWL Stool $595 Anthi Frangiadis Associates, Marion, MA (508) 748-3494, anthif.com/drawing-room You don’t have to have night vision to know a good seat when you see one.

Handcrafted by Maine artist Geoffrey Warner, the stool base is available in sage, red, black,blue, aqua, and chrome.

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10 Chocolate Diamonds in Rose Gold Band $2,295 Plante Jewelers, Swansea, MA (508) 673-0561, plantejewelers.com Among the selection of unusual jewelry, loose diamonds, and colored gemstones, you’re find this lovely piece, the perfect way to show her how much you care. Does she want chocolate, or diamonds? How about chocolate diamonds in rose gold?

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

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THINGS TO DO

Gathering guide

By Joyce Rowley

Every fall, I get an urge to go out into the woods and gather things: pinecones, nuts, dried grasses. I’m not sure why. Maybe it’s just my old Yankee genes saying it’s time to prepare for the long winter ahead.

As I watch the rest of the natural world prepare in earnest for a time when food will be scarce, I wonder what this winter will bring. There was an overabundance of acorns last year and look how that turned out. We were getting a foot of snow a day. So by October you’ll find me hunting for hickory nuts and walnuts to put into bread.

In November, I go out to gather the last of the wildflowers and wild grasses to bring in for a late fall bouquet in shades of gold, orange and brown.

Unlike a summer bouquet, it needs no water—everything is already dried on the stalk when I pick them.

If you are so inclined to become a fall gatherer, all you need is a pair of sturdy scissors and a reusable cloth bag. Plastic bags don’t work well since they get static-y and pull some of the chaff from the grasses and flowers.

However, I won’t offer suggestions on where to go on the South Coast. The best part of gathering is discovering those places for yourself. Just pick a sunny day without wind and start your ramble along a country or seaside road. Dress warm, bring a thermos of hot cocoa and your imagination.

There’s only one rule to gathering: Leave much more than you take of any flower, vine or grass.

They may look plentiful, but taking them out of the ecosystem means that there will be fewer seeds that propagate next spring.

Asters: These daisy-like flowers have a hardy stalk for arrangements. They come in a variety of colors and clusters, although by November most have already passed. That’s okay because they tend to go to fluff and provide a round soft element to the arrangement. The leaves last for a while, and offer a mid-brown color to the mix.

forest/the world. The golden encapsulated red berries on a brown woody vine is perfect for wreaths, but alas, only temporarily. Unless you spray them with a fixative, the seed pod and berries will fall off. However, even without berries the woody vine makes interesting curly shapes when cut into 18 inch lengths and dried out.

Burdocks: These deep-brown round flowers nestled on a spiky stalk provide a nice contrast to the grasses.

Wild grape vine: This is a thicker dark brown woody vine that can be woven into a frame for a wreath when the leaves are removed.

Little Bluestem grass: This is a common but useful light reddish tan grass that is both tall and spiky but has fluffy soft flowers.

Sedges, rushes, and ryes are common throughout the South Coast. Choose those with clean leaves and sturdy stalks at the height you want for your arrangement.

Local favorites

Bittersweet: This is the exception to the rule.

Anyone with bittersweet in their yard will gladly give you as much as your little heart desires. It’s an invasive vine that easily takes over a garden/yard/

Here are a few of my favorite roadside flora that are usually dry on the stalk and keep a good long while in a dry vase.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

Timothy grass: I love this stuff. The light golden color, fuzzy seed pods and slender leaf blades lighten up any room.

Winter Berries: Found near the edge of salt marshes, it has pretty, triangular clusters of white berries on a sturdy stalk.

Cattails: These are great drama pieces. According to my nature guide, you’ll never go hungry if you live near cattails. From tuber root to stem, all but the leaves are edible. Avoid taking narrowleaf cattails, which are a native variety and less plentiful.

A word of caution: poison sumac is a lovely shade of red with tall stately fruit, and I have known gatherers who went overboard and picked armloads.

Fortunately for them, they were only mildly allergic and a little Calamine lotion took care of the weepy blistering rashes they got.

Likewise, poison ivy/poison oak may look like a great vine to string around your home with pretty red berries, until the oil stirs up a nasty rash wherever it lands on you.

Bring photos of these particular plants with you if you are not already familiar with them or download some onto your phone for easy reference.

But put the phone on “airport” mode. Gathering is a primal thing, putting you in harmony with fall turning into winter, watching the natural world recede into itself to await another spring.

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The South South Coast Coast Insider Insider // November November 2014 The

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BOOK GIFT GUIDE Courtesy of Partners Village Store

Stocking stuffers

By Laura LaTour

Once again, the gift-giving season is upon us. Now you can splurge on those beautiful coffee-table and picture books you’ve been eyeing for months. We’ve got the right book for every member of your family, from “foodie” to farmer and everyone in between.

The Paper Hat Book

by Alyn Carlson Quarry Books $19.99 paperback

Written by Westport artist and designer Alyn Carlson, this gorgeous how-to book takes crafting for kids to a whole new level. The Paper Hat Book offers creative families 20 fantastic paper hats, all of which can be created quickly and easily from readily accessible papers—shopping bags, newspapers, comics, and junk mail! The right headgear ensures complete transformation, especially on the head of an imaginative child. Carlson creates hats that are perfect for birthday parties, play dates, costumes, and everyday dress up. With beautiful photographs of each whimsical creation, this book is sure to inspire the playful child within you.

\

My Portugal: Recipes and Stories

Colonial New England Curiosities

Chef George Mendes was raised in a food-loving Portuguese family. After years of cooking with the best chefs around the world, Mendes returned to his roots with the opening of his Manhattan restaurant, Aldea. His newly published book, “My Portugal”, is more than just a cookbook. It is a travelogue, a biography and a valentine to the people and cuisine of Portugal. From bacalhau to pasteis de nata, Mendes lays out each recipe in easy-to-follow steps for the novice and accompanies the recipes with anecdotes and essays like “The Search for Suckling Pig” for the true foodies.

With gorgeous full-color photographs of the food, the places and the people of Portugal, this is one book your family will treasure for years.

Robert A. Geake, a board member of the Warwick Historical Society and author of seven previous history books, draws a portrait of the hardships and mysteries that were a part of the early settlers’ everyday lives. The New World was full of strange trials for the early colonists of New England.

Devastating plagues, violent conflicts with Native Americans and freak weather ravaged whole communities. Through the letters, diaries and journals of influential figures of the time, Geake uncovers the oddities and wonders that amazed New England’s pioneers. Illustrated with blackand-white photographs, this is the perfect gift for history fans.

by George Mendes Published by Stewart, Tabori and Chang $35.00 hardcover

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

by Robert A. Geake The History Press $16.99 paperback

Home is the Starting Place

by Sandra Hall Saltworks Publishing $22.00 hardcover

Dartmouth artist Sandra Hall has published a picture book for the whole family! “Home is the Starting Place” follows a family of barn swallows as they struggle to build a new nesting space for their family. Based on the artists own experience with aviary intruders, you will come to love the barn swallows’ feisty personality and their quirky smiles. Hall uses her many years of experience as a painter and printmaker to capture the South Coast setting and bring to life the whimsical creatures that inhabit her pages.

Organic Hobby Farming

by Andy Tomolonis 1-5 Publishing $24.95 paperback

In “Organic Hobby Farming”, Andy Tomolonis, a longtime organic gardener and award-winning Boston-area journalist, strips down the concept of organic and explains why natural farming has emerged as the healthiest and most viable method of growing for backyard gardens. As Tomolonis states in the book’s introduction, “eat safer, more nutritious food, learn about your soil and plants, support the local food movement and help save the planet—one acre at a time.”

From soil analysis to choosing the right tools, Tomolonis covers each necessary step to starting your own hobby farm.

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Parallel Lives: A Social History of Lizzie A. Borden and Her Fall River

by Michael Martins and Dennis A. Binette Fall River Historical Society $49.95 hardcover A dual history of Fall River and its most infamous resident, this award-winning book presents the first intimate look at Lizzie Borden.

Based on a treasure trove of material unearthed during nearly a decade of research, it includes an extensive array of new information about Lizzie Borden drawn from private collections on four continents, as well as many fascinating stories about old Fall River high society. Parallel Lives does not debate Lizzie Borden’s guilt or innocence, but many who read the book come away with a completely different view of her.

With 1,179 pages and profusely illustrated with 500 photos, it will provide many hours of reading enjoyment.

The Blessing: Ghosts of Gage Hill

by Deborah Correia lulu.com $9.95 eBook – $19.99 paperback

Looking for a book with a local flavor? “The Blessing: Ghosts of Gage Hill” by Deborah Correia Romano may be a good choice.

Based on a true story, the book tells the tale of Eileen Correia and her family who live in an eighteenth century house in Fall River’s North End. It recalls her living and dying through the eyes of the oldest daughter.

In addition to the many family members who lived and visited the home, there were also guests from the past who made their presence known. The book tells the stories of spirits who shared the house—and of the mother who tried to keep them under control.

Available at Annie’s Unique Boutique in Somerset, Lulu.com and Amazon.com

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

13

COVER STORY

by Michael J. DeCicco

At Christmas time in South Coast, kids who love getting toys large enough to fit in big boxes don’t necessarily want toys that come from big box retailers.

That’s because the region’s specialty stores offer a unique variety of toys that sell as well as what the big chains offer.

Located in the Lifestyle Plaza at 270 Huttleston Avenue in Fairhaven, The Village Toy Shop is a prime example. Clerk Sally Ribeiro said the store, which has been in operation for 10 years, keeps busy just from focusing on educational and traditional toys.

“People come here to find something they can’t get at the mall or anywhere else,” Ribeiro said. “We sell nothing electronic. Just brain toys. We sell toys with more of an educational bent to them.”

She noted as an example that all the games they sell are from educational companies. For children wanting to explore their creativity and skill with building things, the store sells a variety of Lego sets and a very popular item called “Sands Alive”, moldable clay-like sand that can be used like play dough.

The shop also sells tons of arts and craft products each year, she said, and a lot of all-metal and recycled plastic trucks for boys.

For girls, a particularly unique big seller right now is a hairbrush scented with all-natural-chemicals for girls. Ribeiro is proud to note the shop sells

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

‘green’ products manufactured of environmentally-friendly materials and sturdy, traditional toys such as all-metal pogo sticks and jump ropes that are made of actual rope not plastic.

Long-time customer Kathy Hebert has taken all six of her children to the Village Toy Shop at one time or another. She was there one day with her 11-year-old daughter Gabriella and four-year-old son Quinn.

What’s unique about us is that we don’t try to sell what the big guys sell…

“I like the unusual toys here that they can learn from and that you won’t find at regular stores,” she said. “These toys keep their minds active and interested. They are learning math or science, and they don’t even realize it. It’s great for growing their mental skills.”

For more information, visit the web at Facebook. com/TheVillageToyShop.

Kid connection

In nearby Mattapoisett, No Kidding, which has operated out of the Ropewalk Plaza at 33 County Road for 16 years, has followed the same business model just as successfully.

“What’s unique about us is that we don’t try to sell what the big guys sell,” said Sue Hottel, who has co-owned the store since 2001. “We can’t compete for their business. So we don’t.”

Among the store’s biggest sellers are “Playmobil” theme play sets. The themes and settings depicted by the action figures and accessories in these kits range from farming or working a construction site to living in a western town or in a medieval castle.

Business at No Kidding rises by 50 percent during the two months of summer and the six weeks before Christmas, Hottel said. In the summer, beach and boat toys are the biggest sellers. During the Christmas season, construction play toys and other indoor toys become the biggest sellers.

Hottel said the Calico Critter collection of animal families are also a big seller with girls. Boys are attracted to anything sports-related or with wheels, from toy trucks and wooden train sets to balls and equipment for a variety of sports.

“We like the toys and games and puzzles that kids learn important skills from,” she said.

What co-owner Polly Henshaw doesn’t like is when No Kidding is called a old-fashioned toy store.

“Sometimes we will follow a trend in toys, if we think the toy will be around for a while,” Henshaw said.

Hottel said sometimes they will buy what they think will be the next big thing only to find out it doesn’t sell.

That’s one reason trendy toys are not their focus.

Instead, the store emphasizes customer service, product knowledge and specialty orders, Hottel said. “What we don’t have, we can get sent to us,” she said.

They spend a lot of time helping shoppers find the toy that fits their particular child. The task may be locating a toy for a special needs child without fine motor skills or one who doesn’t like a noisy toy.

Hottel said the reason she and Henshaw are up to the task of running such a store starts with the fact they are both grandmothers. “All the people working here are grandparents,” Hottel said. “So we have all had a little experience with kids.”

For more information, visit www.nokiddingtoys. com.

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The New Bedford Antiques Center at Wamsutta Place, located at 61 Wamsutta Street, is where Christmas shoppers will find antique and rare toys for the adult collector on their list.

Owner/manager Jeff Costa said the store sells ‘shelf toys’ ranging from as old as the turn of the 20th century to as recent as the 1980s.

He explained these toys, some in mint condition, are for the nostalgic adult who is a kid at heart.

“You’re not expected to take them out of the box and play with them,” Costa said.

Upstairs, the store displays classic games, dolls, comic books, story books, cars and trucks and “Star Wars” action figures are still in their original wrapping.

To learn more about this business, visit www. newbedfordaniquescenter.com.

Downstairs, the center’s displays include even rarer items such as a classic red, pedal-driven fire truck and a pull toy horse covered in fake fur.

Butch Frazier, owner of the Nine Steps Down store that manages the toy collection, agreed that his merchandise is not for child’s play.

For the adult collector, he said, the most popular toys right now are from the 1950s and ‘60s.

“They are getting the toys that they can reminisce with,” he said. “It’s mostly about nostalgia.”

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The South Coast Insider / November 2014

15

COVER STORY Duchess

Do you have room in your home and your heart for one of these three felines? They can be found at the Faxon Animal Care and Adoptive Center in Fall River.

Abby

Gonzo

Welcoming a pet

By Brian J. Lowney

Have you ever considered adopting an older cat or dog or an animal with special needs?

For the past century abandoned or abused animals, many of them elderly, have received compassionate care from the staff and benefactors of the Animal Rescue League of Fall River, now known as the Faxon Animal Care and Adoption Center.

The league was officially incorporated on June 25, 1914, by a group of prominent Spindle City women who were concerned about the treatment of local draft horses. Helen Leighton served as the group’s first president and Lizzie Borden provided seed money to start the organization.

According to Faxon Executive Director John Panarese the shelter, housed at 474 Durfee Street, was opened to small companion animals in 1917.

Borden bequeathed $30,000 to the organization upon her death in 1927. Her sister Emma willed $22,000 to the league when she died several days later that year.

Panarese, who has led the shelter for six years, says one of the most interesting artifacts that he

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

uncovered in preparing for the organization’s centennial was a report from the 1920s highlighting an increase in the number of canine fatalities and injuries as a result of the widespread introduction of the automobile.

“I estimate that more than 250,000 animals have passed through these doors since the facility was opened,” he says, adding that the nonprofit facility continues to place kittens and older felines in adoptive homes. The league temporarily stopped its dog adoption program last year when the section of the facility used to house canines was heavily damaged as a result of severe weather.

One of the highlights of the league’s long history was the construction of a new shelter building in 1994, made possible through a $300,000 gift from the late Raymond Faxon, a financier and utility company executive, whose daughter-inlaw Eileen Faxon serves on the shelter’s board of directors.

“We take care of the animal’s emotional and

physical needs,” Panarese says, adding that before a feline is adopted, the cat is spayed or neutered, inoculated, microchipped, dewormed and treated for fleas.

According to Panarese, about 80 percent of the shelter’s income is derived from the Sylvan Animal Clinic, named for benefactors Sue and Neil Van Sloun of Westport, owners of Sylvan Nursery, and longtime breeders of champion Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers.

“We compete with other clinics,” Panarese reveals, adding that while the facility started out as a wellness clinic, the facility now offers comprehensive veterinary care, except for radiology. He adds that the clinic charges “fair, affordable” prices which makes Sylvan competitive with other local veterinary practices. The facility is staffed by two full-time and two part-time veterinarians. “My job is to be the number one advocate for the league,” Panarese emphasizes.

Duchess – 10 weeks old. A fresh rescue, she was fostered until she was old enough to be on her own.

She is playful and quite beautiful.

Abby – 8 years 2 months old. She was adopted from here as a kitten many years ago, but her owner has passed away so she was brought back to us.

She is now declawed and is such a love of a girl. She likes to get as much affection and love as she can.

To adopt a cat or kitten call (508) 961-CATS (2287) or email Habitatcat@aol.com

Gonzo – 2 months old. His mom gave birth to him and his sister Camilla, and once the babies were old enough to be on their own they came to us. Gonzo is a cute little man who enjoys petting.

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Rochester refuge

At It’s All About the Animals, a nonprofit cat shelter in Rochester, founders Pamela and Oren Robinson struggle daily to find “forever homes” for the deluge of kittens and older cats that are dropped off at the facility.

In the past few months, the Robinsons have taken in more than 70 kittens, and at least 35 adult cats. Although the abandoned felines come from as far away as Brockton and Cape Cod, most of the cats are found wandering on the streets of Wareham and Fall River.

“As long as an animal can enjoy a quality of life, it deserves a chance,” says Pamela Robinson. “If we’ve saved an animal, we’ve hit the lottery.”

Like Faxon, the Rochester shelter oftentimes reaches out to animals that have been abused or dropped off in strange surroundings and left to depend on the kindness of strangers.

“They give you a lot of love,” says Robinson of the special needs cats. “They know that you are trying to help them.”

As winter approaches and the number of homeless animals continues to soar across the South Coast, animal shelters throughout the region continue to struggle. The facilities are also in dire need of pet food, cleaning supplies, bedding, pet toys and monetary donations. Check with your local shelter to determine its needs.

For more information about the Faxon Animal care and Adoption Center, call (508) 676-1061. To learn more about It’s All About the Animals, call (508) 763-2035. Visit both shelters on Facebook.

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www.faxonarl.org The South Coast Insider / November 2014

17

cover story

A renaissance man

by Mel B. Yoken

With Veteran’s Day right around the corner, it is important to honor those individuals that have served our country. Visiting the Military Museum in New Bedford is like looking into a magical area with an amazing history filled with invaluable objects. esidents of this area owe a debt of gratitude for this to Robert (Bob) Bromley, who has transformed the museum into one of the area’s most prized treasures and most visited attractions. Bromley’s tenure at the helm has truly coincided with the museum’s amazing growth and a slew of new exhibits, both popular and relevant. No detail is too small for this energetic man. He has achieved so much in his 10 years at the helm, and admits candidly that he still has a lot to do. The moment he came on board, he provided the necessary leadership and direction to make the Military Museum, genuinely accessible to all, and elevated its breadth of influence near and far. Succinctly, his talent, savvy and intelligence for the job are legion.

The following interview took place throughout the summer of 2014.

Q: How and when did you get started

as curator of The Fort Tabor-Fort Rodman Military Museum?

A: In 1999, my wife Karen and I saw an article in the local newspaper about the reorganization of the Fort Taber Historical Association. We attended the start-up meeting and joined right into the workings of the museum. The position was first held by Col. Sam Wagstaff (retired) until his illness and then assumed by another individual. In 2004, the association was given the green light to establish a museum in the restored P-28 structure that formerly housed the military base PX, a day room for enlisted men, and later used as a classroom for the city of New Bedford. As we were 18

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

establishing the museum, both the vice president and the curator left the association. Because of my interest and tenacity to see the museum be created, I was asked by the board to assume both positions. Since then the membership has continuously re-elected me in the VP position.

Q: Did you always have an ambition to be

expand the dimensions of the structure. We’d like to incorporate more oral histories and to expand outward into the surviving military fortifications on site. We’d like to see them stabilized and wherever possible made open for the public.

Q: You’re known to be a tireless and

a curator, even as a young boy?

intrepid worker. How do you successfully manage such a busy schedule?

A: No, but I have always liked museums and

A: Not really sure how I do it. It’s a balance of

thought that it would be a great thing to do.

Q: How do you, as a curator, decide the subject of your next exhibition?

A: It’s hard to explain, the exhibits sort of just

happen. I really don’t start by planning an exhibit.

It is more of an inspired reaction to what item or individual walks through the door.

Q: What are some of the outstanding aspects of the Military Museum?

A: The museum does two things: it is a

preservation site for those who served in our nation’s armed forces and it gives a visitor a chance to look into the eyes of many generations who put on a uniform and respect that they did so. In some cases, it gives a glimpse into what they felt, saw, reacted to and experienced. All the while realizing that these people and these objects don’t just reflect the famous, but instead reflect that it is just everyday people and family.

Q: What do you consider to be the

highlights of your tenure as curator?

A: Realizing that what we created has filled a

work, family, and other activities. I can never say I’m bored.

Q: As curator, what is the biggest chal-

Q: What do you personally collect?

A: Depression era glassware, American Civil War artillery artifacts, family items.

plans for the museum?

A: We’re trying to figure out a way to again

The event is FREE and open to the public, but reservations are required, so call ahead!

70 Water Street • Fall River, MA 508-674-3533

www.marinemuseumfr.org

Q: What advice do you have for anyone seeking a position similar to yours?

A: Make sure It’s something that you love to do

and not just something to do. That way every day and every object becomes a personal experience.

Q: What museums do you like visiting?

A: Smithsonian, West Point, Gettysburg, the

Q: What are your hobbies, pastimes,

Q: What are some of your future goals and

December 4 • 7:00PM

The award-winning folk duo Atwater-Donnelly will perform a combination of American and Celtic folk music interspersed with poetry and dance.

HOURS: Wednesday through Saturday 10am to 3pm

Q: Of all your donations thus far, which

is brought to the museum has its own unique history. Each item has its own self-worth to the person carrying the item and its own story, regardless of whether it’s a photo, art, artifact or a grain of sand carried by a veteran who hit the beach.

Atwater-Donnelly

A: Trying to sort out all the items that arrive daily, inventory, assess, and develop its exhibit location, and deal with it, one step at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed.

purpose in our community.

A: Very difficult answer because everything that

Made possible in part by the Fall River Cultural Council

lenge you face on a regular basis, and how do you deal with it?

National D-Day museum, local history museums, and all of the museums in the New Bedford area.

one(s) is (are) the best and most important?

UPCOMING EVENT

avocations?

A: Being curator is actually a hobby, doing living history, doing things that benefit the community.

Q: Where do you see yourself and the museum in 10 years?

A: To keep saying “well we need to expand again.”

For more information on museum and hours visit www.forttaber.org

Where old and new friends have met since 1933

Serving Lunch

Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Chourico & Chips..................$5.95 Cacoila Sandwich....................$5.95 Grilled Reuben.........................$5.95 Cranberry Chicken Salad Sandwich....................................$4.95 Tuna Salad Sandwich.............$3.95 Honey BBQ Wings.............. $4.50 Taquitos and Salsa...................$3.95 Mozzarella Sticks...................$3.95 Open: Monday -Wednesday 11:30am-1am Thursday- Saturday 11:30am-2am Sunday 12pm-12am -- Ask about private parties

34 Franklin Street Fall River, MA 508.673.2982 The South Coast Insider / November 2014

19

THINGS TO DO

Owner Kate Conlon stands in front of the store that offers “something for everyone.”

Browsing Bristol R

ainy days and shopping always get me down, but a quick trip to downtown Bristol can make both a little more bearable.

We arrived in town just before the crack of noon, so it was time for breakfast. You’ve got to face the stores on a full belly, and Hope Diner, at the junction of Hope and Thames Streets can help you accomplish that mission.

It’s just across the street from the water, but don’t expect a fancy spot with high prices despite the view. This “Best of RI” winner is what a good diner should be: Quick, clean, comfortable and creative.

Where else can you get the usual favorites like bacon, eggs, home fries and pancakes, as well as exceptionally delicious slices of ham? They also have specials like pork chops and eggs, fish hash and, for those so inclined, an asparagus omelet?

Prices are great and kids are welcome. There are lots of toys for them to play with and the shouts of orders will muffle even a noisy child.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

By Michael J. Vieira

Want a quiet, romantic spot? Head further down the street to one of the quaint coffee shops. Bristol Sunset Café (bristolsunsetcafe.com) is a good spot but still kid-friendly.

Find Hope

On a nice day, you can stroll the streets and check out the historic buildings along Hope Street. It really is like a living museum with active shops and restaurants sharing the area with houses and churches. But that’s another story.

But on a rainy day, the availability of street parking and the proximity of the businesses make Bristol a good place to explore—even when the weather is cool and skies are gray.

There are so many choices. An entire article could also be written about just about any shop or restaurant along the main and side streets of town, so there’s no way we can include them all. Check out explorebristolri.com for a more comprehensive guide, as well as TripAdvisor and Yelp for reviews of

dining spots and things to do.

Suffice it to say that shops range from A Jour Jewelry on Thames Street to Zenabelle on Hope.

Eat casually at Aidan’s Pub (aidanspub.com) and enjoy live music and a pint at night or at the Café Central (cafecentralri.com) at Bradford Street, the Beehive Cafe (thebeehivecafe.com) on nearby Franklin Street. Dress up for a night at DeWolf Tavern (dewolftavern.com) on Thames Street, Le Central (lecentralbristol.net) or The Lobster Pot (lobsterpotri.com) on Hope Street.

Looking for Company

Umbrellas up and parking found, we headed past antique stores and other shops into Kate and Company. For 19 years, the store has been trying to offer “something for everyone” in their Hope Street store.

It looks like they’ve done it.

The shelves are full of clothing for kids, men and women to toys and books, giftware and jewelry

What do you get for the person who has everything?

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and even “Bootie Cuties”—knitted animal cuffs that you can add to customize your boots. Who knew?

“The inventory changes all the time,” owner Kate Conlon suggested. Customer Brenda Turchetta agreed, saying, “This is a great place to shop for all kinds of things.”

Turchetta had picked up a gift for somebody who was moving into a new home, which Conlon wrapped while she waited. But Turchetta also took advantage of the opportunity to pick up a “Frasier Fir” candle and soap bar for the holidays.

“You’ve got to get it now,” Conlon said, even though the Halloween decorations were still up.

And as the holidays beckon, Conlon and Company are getting ready. “That’s our busy season,” she said.

A silver lining

Almost right next door on Hope Street is Green River Silver Co. (greenriversilver.com) The brilliant shine of the silver trimmed mirrors and glow from the jewelry cases cut through the clouds. And so we went to the light.

Founded in 1999 by John and Dan Goldman, the company specializes in fine sterling silver jewelry from around the United States and the world. They are reported to be the largest silver importer in Rhode Island.

From a look in the cases, that could be true. There are pendants from India and Ruth Doron jewelry from Moledet, Israel, which is not far (at least in the store) from Annabel Humber jewelry from England.

In the middle of the store, a case features sparkling waves and shiny sailboats. A portion of this exclusive Rhode Island jewelry is donated to Save the Bay. Nearby, sea glass is transformed from trash to treasures.

Even the walls shine. They are nearly covered with mirrors from Mexico. Some are squares and rectangles with tiles or without, others are circles and arches, and some are free-standing or wall-mounted glittering full-length mirrors. The service also sparkled. Employee Pam Cohen greets customers as if they were entering her home.

“It doesn’t feel like work,” Cohen said, adding, “When you come here, you come in as a customer, but you leave as a friend.”

In fact, that’s what happened to her.

Cohen shopped there regularly, and when she decided to enter the workforce again after retiring for a while, she approached Maureen Tenn, the store manager, who welcomed her to join the team.

It seems like a good match. Cohen described the Goldman brothers as “dynamite,” and suggested that Bristol is a blast.

“I love this community,” Cohen said, “They’re very friendly people.”

Folks stop in, and even dogs are welcome. They put treats on the window ledge outside and water in a bowl—except when it’s raining cats and… (sorry).

Like most of the stores in this and other communities, they are preparing for the holidays that are on the horizon. Green River will have their “Holiday Preview” on the weekend of November 21. But even if it’s not the festive season, the shop shines.

More shiny things

Maureen Tenn and Pam Cohen smile in their shiny shop

Nearby, just off Route 114, Blithewold Mansion (blithewold.org) is also getting ready to glow for the holidays. “Sparkle!” will take place on Friday nights from November 28 to January 2.

Stroll the illuminated gardens and greenhouse from 6 to 8 p.m., enjoy carol singing at 6:30 p.m. and sit around a bonfire in the enclosed garden.

Sparkle! is included in the regular admission, but S’mores kits are $1.

Blithewold also will host a “Sing-A-Long with Santa,” from Dec. 4 to 11. This Christmas event features holiday music and a visit from Old Saint Nick who will read The Night Before Christmas.

Registration and admission fee are required. For more information, visit blithewold.org.

Santa will also be at the Bristol Christmas Festival on Sunday, December 7. Join him for breakfast and check out their page for more details as the season gets closer.

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10 Child Street • Warren, RI The South Coast Insider / November 2014

21

Business BuZZ

A beautiful partnership

By SEAN McCARTHY

When New Bedford grows, Bristol Community College grows.

The Whaling City and the downtown campus of Bristol Community College have established a mutually prosperous relationship.

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medical programs in Nursing, Phlebotomy, and Pharmacy Technology. There are also programs offered in business, education, computers and others.

The school offers 17 two-year Associates Degree programs and 15 one-semester Certificate programs.

BCC President John Sbrega points out that 65 percent of students at the New Bedford campus had not enrolled in higher education before enrolling in his school.

“Community colleges like Bristol provide access to education and opportunity, and by opening the New Bedford campus we have been able to expand life-changing opportunities to thousands of people,” Sbrega says. “Being in New Bedford enables the college to contribute dayby-day to the life and health of the community.

“It is important that we provide access to education for this community.”

Success stories

For Jessica Smith, BCC New Bedford has played an irreplaceable role in her life. The 21-year old New Bedford resident and graduate of Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School has devoted much of her time over the last five years at the downtown campus to pursuing multiple degrees and

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

The New Bedford campus of Bristol Community College is thriving, thanks to the 3,300 students who study there.

Kevin Spirlet / BCC COMMUNICATIONS/PUBLIC RELATIONS

Students are given a nearby location for learning and being trained to fit the jobs in new and growing industries in the area. At the same time, the influx of students contributes economically to the area and provides a unique cultural ambience that is only generated by the presence of large groups of students in a commercial district.

“There’s an energetic vibe to downtown and the students like the location of the campus,” says Wesley Lundberg, Dean of the New Bedford campus. “It’s different than any other area school.”

With more than 3,300 students, the New Bedford campus of BCC is contributing to the city’s renaissance.

The campus is ideally located for those people looking for an education who can’t travel to the school’s main campus in Fall River. Due to the success of this partnership, the community college has plans to expand.

“Being a city school is a great thing,” says Karen Varieur, Director of Campus Operations for the New Bedford campus. “We pay attention to what is developing in the area and we do what we can to meet those needs. If a certain field grows we’ll grow with it.”

BCC New Bedford puts an emphasis on the sciences, including Chemistry, Biology, and Microbiology. They also feature

tutoring other students.

Since enrolling in the campus she has been able to walk to classes and appointments, except for rainy weather when she is able to use her SRTA bus pass which she buys with a student discount.

Smith is working on her second Associate’s Degree at the downtown location. After earning her degree in Therapeutic Massage she has operated a massage business in Westport one day a week. The other four days she studies General Education with the goal of moving on to attain a four-year degree in Psychology. She also finds the time to tutor students in Math, Biology, and Spanish, while assisting in the Massage Therapy program.

“I love my job and I love the campus,” Smith says. “It’s especially nice to be able to enjoy the area after classes. There’s lots of great restau-

I’ve benefitted from meeting other women with similar situations. BCC is providing a life for my son and myself so that we won’t have to struggle.”

Enrollment is up

The downtown campus got its start in 2001 with 350 students. At the time it was tough to even get a cup of coffee. Now there is a variety of retail shops to choose from. Today the school boasts 22 classrooms and four state-of-the-art computer labs, a library, an Academic Support Center, an Internet Café, a student lounge, and a bookstore.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell is proud of the growth shown by the campus during its 13 year stay in the city.

“BCC is an important institution in downtown and beyond,” says Mitchell. “BCC students and faculty contribute to the vibrancy of our

The climate and culture of the New Bedford campus is extremely positive, culturally diverse, and an exciting setting. rants, clothing shops, gift shops and art galleries. AHA! Nights are really popular with the students. There’s a lot of students like me who also walk and take the bus to their classes. This school is great for this city.”

When Heidi Campbell began her BCC experience she was a single mother of a two-year old and had graduated from high school 10 years before. Today, she has an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration which she achieved while on the Dean’s List. Campbell was also a member of the Wisewoman program which put her in touch with other mothers in similar situations.

Campbell continues to delve into the BCC experience, pursuing multiple certificate programs while tutoring students at the school.

“Thanks to BCC women are showing that single moms can do anything for themselves,” Campbell says. “Before I enrolled here I was uncomfortable with my situation, but

ALL ON ONE CAMPUS

downtown of our city in many ways and we consider them integral to our community. The campus is woven into the fabric of our downtown.”

Each year the number of BCC students grows by approximately five percent, and the school is expanding to meet these needs. The school is in the midst of a $20 million project to refurbish a 40,000 square foot building in downtown that should be fully renovated and active in five years.

“This is the full college experience for students,” says Martha Ucci, an English professor on the New Bedford campus. “We respond to the needs of New Bedford students. They appreciate having this school in this area. They know that it’s a great opportunity for improving their lives.”

“The climate and culture of the New Bedford campus is extremely positive, culturally diverse, and an exciting setting,” Ucci says. “It’s got a rich history that you can’t get in most cities.

HAWTHORN MEDICAL’S New Facility at 531 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth is Opening November 10 A unique and streamlined facility offering easier access to patient services: Diagnostic Imaging/Radiology Laboratory Urgent Care Center Orthopedics Rehabilitation Services Healthcare for Women Dr. Susan Vogler Pediatrics Family Medicine Internal Medicine Learn more at www.hawthornmed.com/newfacility

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The South Coast Insider / November 2014

23

THINGS TO DO

Fighting

their way to fitness

By Sean McCarthy

Boxers are known to be some of the best conditioned athletes in the world. So when the women at ‘Striking Beauties’, lace up their boxing gloves, it’s about the workouts not the knockouts.

The Fall River gym at 75 Ferry Street is New England’s only womenʼs boxing gym. It has been in existence for more than a year and it already boasts over 50 members ranging from young teens to women in their 60s. The gym is the second all-women’s facility of its kind in New England. The first one is the original Striking Beauties in North Attleboro which got its start in 2009. A future gym is being constructed in Taunton.

For the members, the benefits are mental as well as physical. By following a boxer’s training regimen there will be benefits that can be observed such as strength, speed, stamina, endurance, agility, handeye coordination, alertness and mental fortitude. But there are other

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benefits that can’t be measured such as self-esteem, confidence, and a greater sense of self defense.

“When you come here you train like a fighter without being one,” says owner Kristle Cote. “You’ll get an almost identical workout as a boxer—three minutes of hard training then a 60-second break, just like a boxing match. We also include jump rope, shadow punching and work on the boxing bag.

“If you’re lifting weights or you’re on the treadmill it could get boring,” Cote says. “Our workouts are very versatile, and there’s nobody ogling you. As a woman, this is a place where you feel comfortable. There’s an atmosphere of camaraderie.”

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

confidence booster As a former member of the United States Air Force, Karen Langevin understands physical fitness. Since leaving the military, the 48-year old Fall River resident has tried a variety of workout options. She found herself being an enthusiastic proponent of the Striking Beauties’ experience.

“After my first class I met my husband for dinner and I said ‘I’m in love,’” Langevin says. “I’ve done a lot of physical training, but this workout is by far the best. It works all the aspects of the body and when you’re done you feel more confident and empowered.”

Langevin says that while the women get rough during their workouts, they’re still women when

the workout’s done.

“We train hard but we’re still women,” said Langevin. “We’ll go hard for an hour and then go talk about shopping. We’re supportive of each other, we help each other make progress and feel at home.”

And Malia Aguiar’s days of being bullied are over. The 12-year old works out twice a week at Striking Beauties.

“I was bullied when I was younger, but now I’ve got a lot more confidence. I’m stronger and it makes me feel more powerful,” she says. “After a workout I’m exhausted but I’m psyched. I’m always looking forward to my next workout.”

“Malia is more fit and more confident,” says Jennifer Aguiar, Malia’s mother.

When you finish hitting the bag it’s a great release, it’s better than therapy.

“I was surprised at how much she loved it. She’s benefiting mentally as well as physically. The all-women environment is a benefit, there’s a lot of motivation.”

Malia’s sister Mya, 13, also attends Striking Beauties.

RANGE OF workouts The major classes at Striking Beauties include Boot Camp, which is designed to build cardiovascular and endurance, focusing on all parts of the body.

Pound Rockout is an aerobic workout designed to work the entire body by using weighted drumsticks called Ripstix in rapid movements, set to fast-paced music.

Barre is a fusion of pilates and ballet used to tone and strengthen muscles, geared towards producing a leaner body. The workouts are guided by instructors and also include additional training with punching combinations on bags, pads and mitts.

“We punch the bags, not each other,” Cote says.

All walks of life Striking Beauties has women from a wide array of professions, such as teachers, nurses, pharmacists, hairdressers, photographers, business owners, accountants and florists. Cote says 75 percent of her clients come in without any athletic

background and many have never worked out before.

“We’ll take people right off the couch,” she says.

Emely Delsanto, 25, of Somerset had virtually no athletic background before discovering Striking Beauties a year ago. Now she usually goes five days a week, and sometimes twice a day.

“I love the intensity of the workout, finishing a workout is the best feeling ever,” she says. “It can be tough when you’re halfway through but you keep going because you know it’s so good for your body and your health.”

“I like the idea that you have an instructor pushing you to keep going,” says Danielle Nixon, 28, of Fall River, who recently joined the gym. “When you finish hitting the bag it’s a great release, it’s better than therapy.”

“I’ve made some really good friends and we hang out a couple of times a week when we’re not at the gym,” says Delsanto. “We’re supportive of each other. There’s nowhere else with an atmosphere like this.”

“It’s harder for women to get in shape and stay in shape, so there’s a lot of encouragement and support,” Nixon says. “It’s an intense experience but I’m looking forward to the results.”

“This is not just a gym,” Cote says.

“It’s a great community of women.”

For more information visit www.strikingbeauties.com.

FITNESS ∙ FUN

AND FRIENDS

Senior Membership Advantages Each day at the Y, people of all ages are coming together to get and stay active. Seniors are engaging in social activities and meeting others who share common interests and passions. They’re participating in group exercise and aquatics classes and learning about proper nutrition. And they’re working side-by-side with our Wellness Coaches to develop more active, productive lives.

It’s happening every day at the Y — people of all ages are getting healthier and living better through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. Join us.

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New Bedford YMCA 508.997.0734

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

25

Business BuZZ

Why we insure or not

By Jay Pateakos

When it comes to insurance, let’s face it, we try to do what we can to avoid it or pay as little as possible.

W

e play the proverbial Russian Roulette, just to save a few bucks, and then cry later when something does happen and we’re not covered.

In my other life, I run a small Chamber of Commerce on the Cape. We are hosting an Oktoberfest Train. While the train company has a self-proclaimed excellent insurance policy for anything that might happen on the train, I felt the need to reach out to our Chamber’s Insurance agent.

“Is the train’s insurance policy enough?” I ask.

I was then instructed that sure, it may be a good policy, but if something happens during the ride, both the railroad and the Chamber would be sued.

In that case, he said, the train company would be covered and my Chamber would not.

So I’m securing my own individual policy for the event, to the tune of around $500, or the price of a few dozen seats, just in case.

Sure, $500 is a lot for a little Chamber like mine, but what’s the alternative? What if something did happen? This is a scenario that plays out in people’s lives on a daily basis. Is not having it worth the risk? That $500 would look pretty damn good if someone fell on the train and I was covered, no?

Big time. Otherwise, it could bankrupt us. Same goes for you.

But let’s hear from some of the professionals.

William H. Lapointe, owner of the Fall

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

River-based Lapointe Insurance, said most insurance coverage today is mandated in some way or another these days. Health insurance is a federal requirement, businesses are required to provide workers compensation, auto insurance is a statutory requirement, and so on.

“When insurance is a voluntary decision most consumers find it difficult to contemplate the consequences of loss. Who wants to think about being sick or losing property in a fire?” said Lapointe.

“The decision is also impacted to a large degree by cost. Some of the most-needed insurance coverage such as flood insurance or long-term care is not purchased because it is deemed unaffordable.”

Buying insurance wisely is all about managing risk, Lapointe notes. The most serious risk most individuals and businesses face is the loss of earnings and income.

“Consider the ramifications,” said Lapointe. “If you have no income all other assets you own are at risk over time. Businesses commonly insure this risk by purchasing income insurance, but individuals often overlook it or choose not to insure it.”

Stephen Brobeck of the Consumer Federation of America has been quoted as saying ‘in an ideal world, everyone would have disability insurance.’

That’s strong commentary coming from a consumer advocate. Lapointe said many times, experience is the key. He said, any individual or business that has suffered a significant loss, which could

have been insured but was not, will tell you they’d never let it happen again.

“I wouldn’t share such stories with consumers because it comes across as alarmist or fear-provoking, and insurance professionals abandoned those sales practices decades ago,” added Lapointe.

“When conducting a comprehensive risk assessment with individuals or businesses, the consequences of suffering an uninsured loss become very clear, and most consumers understand their best options at that point.”

A significant change is occurring in consumer insurance and to a lesser extent with business insurance, Lapointe said.

Seek advice

Technological changes allow many insurance products to be selected, rated and purchased directly with no interaction or advice from an industry professional. In many ways it has improved insurance availability and affordability, he said, but as with anything, there’s a downside.

“Unfortunately it has led to some bad purchasing

decisions with disastrous consequences in some instances. To truly make an informed insurance buying decision without assistance from an industry advisor requires the consumer to spend a great deal of time and effort learning insurance terms and conditions in detail,” said Lapointe.

“Most discover that it is more beneficial to include an insurance professional in the process.”

Jason Kay, President of Stafford & Co. Insurance of Fall River said the reasoning behind people attempting to avoid insurance is two-fold.

“Primarily, I think people tend to believe that ‘it won’t happen to me’ so they simply choose to assume the risk themselves rather than buying insurance. Of course, we all know that this approach doesn’t always work for the best,” Kay said.

“In addition to that, I believe a lot of people simply fall into the camp of just not trusting insurance companies. That is the industry’s fault for how they handle certain claim situations, but in my opinion the industry has come a long way on that. Claim adjusters in general have become better trained and possess more personal skills in addressing coverage denials and policy limitations. Technology has also come a long way in improving the claim process and expediting claim settlements.”

Kay said the most important things to insure are those that present the highest potential financial loss to the individual or business. He said people often overlook the big picture and focus on the small day to day concerns.

Taking it to the extreme, an avid collector might focus on insuring a $500 Hummel and be more concerned about that than their $250,000 home.

The loss of a figurine might emotionally set you back if you have a passion for it, but your home is probably your largest asset, something not to be overlooked, Kay said.

Another prime example of overlooked insurance is Disability Income insurance, something Kay said he would rank as one of the most ignored exposures to severe financial loss.

“Statistics show that a middle aged person is four times more likely to become disabled and unable to work than they are to die. Yet, everyone talks about life insurance and ignores the fact that if their income disappears they could lose everything,” said Kay. “A sudden stroke, cancer or a car accident could disable someone for years, if not for life. If you look at the earning potential of a 35 year old making $50,000 a year, you can see how disastrous this could be, especially if a family is involved. Health insurance doesn’t replace your income, and people tend to forget that.”

Continued on NEXT PAGE

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

Kay recently toured a data center for a large national company in Ohio. He said they had an entire room filled with stacked servers that were monitoring driver behavior and collecting data from their insured’s vehicles.

“This was billions of pieces of data from all across the country being used to determine the proper insurance rate for each customer. You will also soon be seeing and hearing more about a trend towards ‘pay as you go’ auto insurance, where your premium could be tied into, not only how you drive, but where you drive and how many miles you drive,” said Kay. “Think of it in terms of the EZ Pass toll booth. As you drive, premium might someday be charged to you for every mile you go, with a rate based upon how you drive.”

Keith Graveline, Account Executive and Financial Advisor for Rua-Dumont-Audet Insurance Agency and RDA Financial Group of Fall River and Taunton said he believes people tend to avoid what they don’t understand.

“The insurance industry has made buying any type of insurance complicated. What average buyer of insurance today understands their current policies and the coverage’s contained within?” said Graveline.

“Educating clients at the time of the sale on how the insurance that they are buying fits their individual needs are critical. That’s why it is important to work with a well-trained, experienced professional.

Important things to insure depend on the person you are working with, Graveline notes. For example: a person who has a spouse or children needs to protect their ability to earn/provide an income to support their family. Two events can disrupt this ability to earn an income—death and disability.

“Having life insurance provides income upon the death of a spouse and disability insurance provides income if said spouse can no longer work,” Graveline said.

“We as a society mandate auto and home insurance but we don’t mandate life or disability insurance. While insuring vehicles and property are important-insuring the folks that pay for these items are equally important.”

As for a story that didn’t end so well, Graveline said he knew of a wealthy elderly client who came to an advisor friend of his to withdraw a sum of money to pay a legal claim. When the advisor inquired about this withdrawal the client said she lost a lawsuit for an at-fault accident and that her auto policy only covered a portion of the judgment.

“The client did not have any further coverage to protect her wealth. She could have purchased an umbrella policy to give her this added protection,”

Do your homework Here are some quick facts from a 2014 Insurance Study to ponder, courtesy of RDA Insurance: 31% say they’d feel the financial impact from the death of the primary wage earner in one month. n

80% of Americans overestimate the cost of life insurance. n

n 59% haven’t bought life insurance or more of it because they have “other financial priorities” n 24% haven’t bought life insurance because “no one has approached me.” n 65% of adults agree they personally need life insurance and 27% say they need more than they have. n 52% put expenses such as cable and cell phone ahead of buying life insurance.

said Graveline.

“Annual policy reviews are always recommended-our lives are constantly changing, and each change can affect our financial situation and needs.”

As for how the industry has changed over the years, Graveline said we have made buying insurance based solely on price—not on covering the need.

“Insurance professionals are risk managers and we sometimes cannot convince our clients that they need more than they want to pay for,” said Graveline.

“There has to be a balance between price and coverage. Most folks I know can afford the coverage we recommend but the true facts are that many people prioritize things like paying for cable, and their mobile phone or buying that cup of coffee and eating out over getting the proper insurance coverage.”

It’s a dangerous game we play and one that you don’t want to end up on the wrong end of any of these stories. What could cost you just pennies on the dollar could cost you far more if something happens and you’re not covered.

I get it, times are still tight out there and expendable income is at a premium but there are some things that are important and other things that are not. Let’s not learn what those are the hard way.

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The South Coast Insider / November 2014

29

Business BuZZ

Modernization of public transportation

By Steve Smith

The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority has realized a 35 percent growth in readership since 2011.

They are large, white, and can be spotted most often in Fall River and New Bedford; however they can also be seen in Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Somerset, Swansea, and Westport. While most people may not be aware, the buses of the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) are carrying more passengers than ever, and serving the region in a valuable way.

S

ince 2011, SRTA has made several changes that have contributed to the growth of the system: a new operator, a new administrator, expanded service, lower fares, and a modern fare collection system that accepts the Charlie Card (the same Charlie Card used in Boston by the MBTA). With all these changes, the result has been impressive growth in ridership: a 35 percent increase since 2011. Growth of this magnitude is great news in any industry, but in transit it is extraordinary. What caused this growth, where it has occurred, and how it can be sustained is the topic of a report recently released by SRTA.

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

In 2013, the Massachusetts legislature mandated that each of the 15 regional transit authorities in the Commonwealth complete a comprehensive service assessment to determine how well the authority is serving the region in which it operates, to identify ways to improve service across the region, and develop three budget scenarios for service improvements.

The Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District (SRPEDD) recently completed the comprehensive service assessment for SRTA and found that the region is well served by transit: 60 percent of residents live within one-quarter mile of a bus route and 92 percent

of all employment centers are within one-quarter mile of a bus route. Topics like ridership, system performance, and service areas for each of the 22 routes operated by SRTA were evaluated. Through an extensive public engagement program, feedback was sought to develop alternatives to better align service with local and regional demand.

Ridership on the rise

The growth in ridership during the past three years is impressive. The most impressive element of that growth is the change in travel patterns that resulted from a complete restructuring of fare policy. SRTA is more affordable for riders now than

ever before. The base fare for service costs $1.50 ($1.40 if paying with a Charlie Card) and includes one free transfer to another route in the system.

Lower fares and free transfers have brought more people onto the system, and those people are traveling further on the system than ever before. The change in fare policy has made riding more affordable; however service has also been extended to as late at 10 p.m. on weeknights and new destinations have been added to several routes which have made the service much more convenient for the traveling public.

All these changes have led to the unprecedented growth in ridership, but sustaining that growth is going to require significant expansion of the current service offerings. The comprehensive service assessment identified 26 service alternatives, 14 of which were recommended for implementation.

Most of the recommendations involve minor routing changes to existing routes, significant increases in the frequency of service, expansion of night service to several routes, reinstating service on Sundays, and a completely new route along the waterfront in New Bedford. Addressing all of the recommendations would cost nearly $3.6 million annually in addition to the current annual operating budget of $15.4 million.

The South Coast is well served by a transit authority that has made positive and beneficial changes in recent years. The region benefits from these changes by having more travel options than ever at a cost that is very affordable. SRTA carried more than 2.3 million passengers in 2014 demonstrating that transit is an integral part of the regional transportation network, a valuable element of the regional economy, and a benefit to everyone on the South Coast, riders and non-riders alike.

Maintaining and growing public transit is an investment in maintaining and growing the South Coast. Public transit plays a critical role in attracting the workforce of the future, providing access to education, giving residents more travel options, reducing congestion, and improving air quality.

SRTA is meeting the transit needs of the region and is well poised to address the future needs of a growing region.

To see the SRTA Comprehensive Service Assessment, go to: www.srpedd.org or contact Shayne M. Trimbell, AICP Director of Transit Planning Southeastern Regional Planning and Economic Development District at strimbell@srpedd.org

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www.janesullivanlaw.com The South Coast Insider / November 2014

31

DATELINE: SOUTH COAST

News, views and trends... from Mount Hope Bay to Buzzards Bay

by Elizabeth Morse Read

Yippee! It’s finally November! Many people gloomily assume that life goes on hold starting November 1, seeing as Daylight Saving Time ends November 2. But that doesn’t mean we have to go into hibernation. There’s a unique flavor to November activities, a shifting of life outdoors to life indoors, and the only-in-November experiences here on the South Coast are endless.

Oh yeah, there’s also Thanksgiving Day

Across the region

It’s official—Cape Wind has chosen New Bedford’s South Terminal as its hub for the country’s first offshore wind turbine project. It will be named the New Bedford Marine Commerce Terminal.

Uh oh… National Grid customers will be paying 37 percent more for electricity this winter and NSTAR is expected to increase its rates, too.

Michael DeSousa of Fall River received a very special award for his 2013 act of courage, when he rushed from his “just-passing-by” car into a burning apartment building to alert residents (in two languages!), then into neighboring buildings.

He received the state’s Madeline Amy Sweeney award for civilian bravery during 9/11 observances in Boston. The Sweeney award is named after the Acton MA flight attendant aboard a doomed 9/11 airplane, who managed to contact ground control and provide critical information about the terrorist attack.

Self-taught magician, URI grad and Newport resident Mat Franco, 26, won first prize, $1 million and a headlining Las Vegas show, at the “America’s Got Talent” season finale in September. He’s the first magician ever to win the “AGT” competition.

Check out his winning card trick on YouTube.

Portsmouth’s bond rating has been raised to AAA by Standard & Poor’s.

Detours ahead! Major road-and-infrastructure work is coming soon at Faunce Corner Road,

32

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

Routes 6 and 195 in North Dartmouth; the Padanaram bridge in South Dartmouth; at the intersection of Routes 140 and 6 on the New Bedford/ Dartmouth line; and at the treacherous “Octopus” intersection downtown off the Fairhaven/New Bedford bridge. (At least the construction work on the bridge should be done by then) Fairhaven letter-carrier and Vietnam vet Gerry Payette was recently named the Southeastern Massachusetts Veteran of the Year by the Veterans Transition House. For 20 years, he’s coordinated the annual Letter Carrier Food Drive, and helped bring the Vietnam Moving Wall to Fairhaven as part of the town’s bicentennial celebration.

Amaze your visiting relatives this Thanksgiving and plan a day-trip to Plymouth! Experience the Pilgrim past at Plimouth Plantation (www.plimouth.org or call 508-746-1622); visit Pilgrim Hall Museum (www.pilgrimhall.org or 508-746-1620), Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II while you’re there, too!

If you’ve never seen the “Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular” at the Roger Williams Park Zoo (5,000 professionally-carved pumpkins!) in Providence, catch it through November 2. Visit www.rwpzoo. org or call 401-785-3510.

Mark your calendar for the 5th Annual Soup Bowl Supper on November 8 at the Seaport Inn in Fairhaven. The benefit dinner will help out the Neediest Families Fund. Contact Amy Tolivaisa at 508-979-4497 or at atolivaisa@s-t.com.

Attleboro is to the Christmas season what Bristol is to the Fourth of July and what Plymouth is to Thanksgiving—find time to visit the 61th Annual Festival of Lights at LaSalette Shrine starting November 27. For dates and times, call 508-222-5410 or visit www.lasalette-shrine.org.

Plan your Thanksgiving dinner around the bounty of South Coast farms and farmers markets—to find fresh local foods near you, visit www. semaponline.org, www.farmfresh.org or www. localharvest.org.

BCC is launching their Certified Nursing Assistant program in Taunton starting on November 17. In Fall River, several computer courses are starting on November 1, and some even later into the month.

Also on the Fall River Campus, every Saturday in November will be host to Kids College, for both 1st & 2nd grades and 3rd & 4th grades. For more informations call 508.678.2811 ext. 2264.

“My Brother’s Keeper” of Easton and Dartmouth is looking for volunteers and gently-used residential furniture for families in need. Free pick-up. Call 774-3054577 or visit www.MyBrothersKeeper.org.

Acushnet

The Acushnet Senior Center will sponsor a trip to Foxwoods for the Temptations Tribute on November 19 — call 508-998-0280.

ATTLEBORO

Take the kids to the Feasts for the Beasts November 8 and 22 at the Capron Park Zoo. Call 774-2031840 or visit www.capronparkzoo.com.

Don’t miss the Attleboro Community Theatre’s performance of “The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge” on weekends during December. For details, visit www.attleborocommunitytheatre.com.

BARRINGTON

“Newsweek” magazine has ranked Barrington High School as tops in Rhode Island and 200th of the 14,000 high schools ranked nationally.

BRISTOL

Events at Blithewold Mansion & Gardens are always special— “Christmas at Blithewold” begins November 28. Go to www.blithewold.org or call 401-253-2707.

Enjoy acoustic music at the Bristol Stone Church Coffeehouse— Atwater and Donnelly will perform on November 29. Call 401-253-4813 or 401-2537288 for info.

Experience pre-Industrial Age life at the Coggeshall Farm Museum, rated the “Best Living-History” farm in Rhode Island by Yankee Magazine.

Check out the Hearth Cooking Workshops every Sunday in November and December. To learn more, visit www.coggeshallfarm.org or call 401253-9062.

If you’re a boat-lover, don’t miss the Herreshoff Marine Museum, home to the America’s Cup Hall of Fame. Learn more at www.herreshoff.org.

BUZZARDS BAY

Take the kids on the “Train to Christmas Town” from Buzzards Bay to Hyannis starting November 28. Go to www.capetrain.com or call 888-7977245.

CARVER

Head for Edaville Railroad for “The Polar Express” and the Christmas Festival of Lights beginning November 21. And, while you’re there, take the kids to Dinoland, the 20-acre animatronic dinosaur exhibit! Call 508-866-8190 or visit www.edaville. com.

DARTMOUTH

Baker Books has closed its doors for good.

Enjoy the great outdoors at the Lloyd Center for the Environment. Visit www.lloydcenter.org. or call 508-990-0505.

EASTON

Check out the Children’s Museum in Easton. For info, call 508-230-3789 or visit www.childrensmuseumineaston.org.

Fairhaven

Meet your friends on Saturdays at the Oxford Book Haven and Café at the Church of the Good Shepherd in North Fairhaven. Fresh soups and desserts, used books on sale, board games, WiFi. To learn more, visit www.goodshepherdfairhaven. com or call 508-992-2281.

Hawthorn

Kidney Center —Wareham—

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Plan ahead—there’s something for everyone at the multi-event “Old-Time Holiday Weekend” December 13 and 14. Call 508-979-4085 or visit www.fairhaventours@aol.com.

Fall River

Whoa! A late-night clandestine meeting with a young opposing councilman somehow involved a gun and the mayor of Fall River, Will Flanagan? A special prosecutor has been appointed to investigate. Stay tuned…

All hands on deck at Battleship Cove! Free admission for veterans on Veterans Day, November 11. Observe Pearl Harbor Day and enjoy a Navy Christmas on December 7. Learn more at www. battleshipcove.org or call 508-678-1100.

The Narrows Center for the Arts has a great line-up –– there’s Renaissance November 2, Jonathan Edwards November 22, Roomful of Blues November 26, Quinn Sullivan November 28 and Savoy Brown December 13. For a complete schedule, visit www.narrowscenter.com or call 508-324-1926.

Fall River’s Little Theatre will present “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical” December 4 through 7 and 11 through 14. For details, visit www.littletheatre.net or call 508-675-1852.

Now Accepting Dialysis Patients 2991 Cranberry Highway Suite F1 East Wareham, MA Located in the Stop & Shop Plaza — Entrance in the rear —

Call for information or to schedule a tour

(508)-295-5290

Continued on next page

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

33

Continued from previous page

Stroll through “A Victorian Christmas” at the Fall River Historical Society starting the week before Thanksgiving. For dates and times, call 508-6791071 or go to www.fallriverhistorical.org or www. lizzieborden.org.

MATTAPOISETT

Now accepting applications

The Mattapoisett Library is now open on Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m.

MARION

CVS hopes to build a store in Marion. The proposed development would require relocating the historic Captain Hadley House. Stay tuned…

Corinna Raznikov of Marion was chosen as “Best Wedding Photographer” in Boston Magazine’s “Best of Boston” issue.

The Marion Council on Aging will host a day trip to Lees Market and Partners’ Country Store in Westport on November 17 — call 508-748-3570.

MIDDLEBORO

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34

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

Attend workshops on quilting, candle-making or woodblock printing in November at Soule Homestead. And don’t miss the Holiday Fair on December 6. For details, call 508-947-6744 or visit www.soulehomestead.org.

NEW BEDFORD

Free WiFi connectivity is available in downtown New Bedford.

Crowell’s Fine Art and Framing has closed its century-old shop and hopes to find another downtown location soon.

The City of New Bedford will switch over 10,000 street lamps to brighter, more energy-efficient LED lights, which will save the city more than $500,000 each year in electricity and maintenance costs.

Dartmouth and Fairhaven have already made the switch.

Groundwork, a co-working space for entrepreneurs and start-up companies, will open at The Quest Center in downtown New Bedford.

Lights! Camera! Action! The Ocean Explorium in downtown New Bedford was used as a location by film crews of the upcoming movie “Good Kids.”

Gourmet food supplier Sid Wainer & Son is planning a major expansion of its New Bedford headquarters, building a refrigerated facility in Mattapoisett, and has moved into supplying major outlets like BJ’s, Costco and Amazon.

It’s all happenin’ at the Z! Head for the Zeiterion for Get The Led Out November 8, the Martha Graham Dance Company November 15, Jimmy Tingle November 20, Darlene Love November 29. Plan ahead for the American Big Band’s “Home for the Holidays” December 7, “A Christmas Carol” December 13 and a Christmas Celtic Sojourn December 18. And don’t miss the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “A Thanksgiving Musical Feast” on November 30, or “Family Holiday Pops: Magical Moments” at the Z on December 20. Go to www.zeiterion.org, www.nbsymphony.org, or call 508-999-6276.

Stroll through the Buttonwood Park Zoo on a sunny day! For details, call 508-991-6178 or visit www.bpzoo.org. Or pack up the kids and spend an afternoon at the Whaling Museum! For info, go to www.whalingmuseum.org or call 508-997-0046.

Enjoy FREE family fun and entertainment at AHA! Night. The November 11 theme is “Homecomings,” and the December 11 theme is “Made in New Bedford.” Go to www.ahanewbedford.org or call 508-996-8253.

Sign up for the Holiday Gingerbread House Demonstration November 22 at the Rotch-JonesDuff House. For more info, call 508-997-1407 or visit www.rjdmuseum.org.

If you’re a fan of Americana and roots music, check out the monthly Salon Concerts at the Wamsutta Club. There’s Sherman Lee Dillon and the Mississippi Sound November 12. For details, go to www.wamsuttaconcerts.com.

Your Theatre will perform “Postmortem” November 13 through 23. For more info, go to www. yourtheatre.org or call 508-993-0772.

Downtown New Bedford is the place to be as the holidays approach – there’s the Downtown Holiday Stroll December 6 and 7, the Santa Sightings Fun Run December 14, and the New Bedford Preservation Society’s Holiday House Tour December 13 and 14. For a complete schedule of downtown events, visit www.downtownnb.org or call 508990-2777.

NEWPORT

Listen to the Rhode Island Philharmonic’s performance of “The Four Seasons” November 15 at The VETS. Call 401-248-7000 or visit www. ri-philharmonic.org.

Indulge yourself at the Chocolate Brunch at the Newport Regency Hyatt on November 2. For details, go to www.vnsri.org or call 401-682-2100.

Head for the Providence Performing Arts Center to see “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” November 4 through 9, “Disney Live!

Mickey’s Music Festival” November 16, Trace Adkins November 21, “Camelot” December 9 through 14— and much more! Call 401-421-2787 or go to www.ppacri.org.

Check out Newport Restaurant Week November 7 through 16. For more info, call 401-845-9123 or visit www.discovernewportrestaurantweek.org.

Enjoy a performance of “The Nutcracker” at Rosecliff Manor in Newport, performed by the Island Moving Co., November 28 through 30, December 2 through 5. Visit www.islandmovingco.org.

Take a walk through “Christmas at the Newport Mansions” starting November 22. Call 401-8471000 or go to www.newportmansions.org.

Enjoy a performance of “Brighton Beach Memoirs” through November 23 at the Newport Playhouse. Go to www.newportplayhouse.com or call 401-848-7529.

Plan ahead—find out about all the events, concerts and spectacles in Newport throughout December by visiting www.ChristmasinNewport. org or by calling 401-849-6454.

PLYMOUTH

Two kayakers in the waters off Plymouth were uninjured, but scared spitless, when a great white shark attacked their kayak in early September.

PORTSMOUTH

What could be better than live jazz and wine on a Saturday afternoon? Enjoy the Jazz Tastings at Greenvale Vineyards through December 13. Call 401-847-3777 or visit www.greenvale.com.

Head for Common Fence Music for some downhome entertainment. There’s Seth Glier November 1, Rod Picott November 8, The Horn of Plenty Music and dinner November 22, and Red Eye Flight November 29. Plan ahead for the Wholesale Klezmer Band December 6 and the 21st Annual Winter Solstice Concert with Aine Minogue December 20. Call 401-683-5085 or visit www. commonfencemusic.org.

PROVIDENCE

Be amazed by “Waterfire” in downtown Providence on November 8 and 29. For info, visit www.waterfire.org.

Rhode Island College hosts a full schedule of performing arts events — there’s Tomas Kubinek Certified Lunatic November 5, the Muir String Quartet November 17, and A Seraphic Fire Christmas December 3. For a complete schedule, visit www.ric.edu/pfa or call 401-456-8144.

Treat your family to a performance at Trinity Rep! “A Christmas Carol” will be performed November 8 through December 31 and “Barefoot in the Park” November 13 through December 21. Call 401-3514243 or visit www.trinityrep.com.

REHOBOTH

Pianist Frederick Moyers will perform on November 8 in the “Arts in the Village” series at Goff Memorial Hall. Get ready for the annual Folk Art & Artisans Show November 14 and 15, too. Join the Sunday Night Jammers for free monthly dances.

Call 508-252-3031 or visit www.carpentermuseum.org.

SWANSEA

The South Coast Community Chorale will perform its Christmas Concert on November 30 with the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra at the Zeiterion in New Bedford, at Christ Church in Swansea on December 7, and at the Good Shepherd Parish in Fall River on December 14. For more info, go to www.sccchorale.com.

TAUNTON

The Rev. Dr. Henry James of Memorial United Methodist Church, and a native of Liberia, is spearheading a regional project to send much-needed medical supplies to West African countries suffering in the Ebola virus epidemic. He is coordinating with Trinity Methodist Church in Providence, and both churches are accepting donations of medical supplies and equipment.

http://FairhavenEvents.blogspot.com Veterans Day Parade Tuesday, November 11, 2014 Main Street, 10:00 a.m.

Veterans will march and ride from Oxford School to Fairhaven High School where a ceremony will be held on the lawn.

Nemasket Goup 23nd Annual Holiday Bazaar Saturday, November 15, 2014 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fine artisans, breakfast and lunch, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, more. Proceeds benefit the programs of the Nemasket Group. Handicap Accessible. http://www.nemasketgroup.org.

Fairhaven 5K Turkey Trot for Health and Hunger Thursday, November 27, 8 a.m.

Green and Bridge streets

Kick off Thanksgiving on the right foot: running while raising funds and food for local pantries. The 2014 Turkey Trot 5K will include Tuesday night number pickup, t-shirts for the first 500 registrants, an 8am event start, and warm indoor preand post-Trot festivities. www.fairhaventurkeytrot.com.

Old-Time Holiday Saturday, December 13, 2014 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Craft fairs, luncheons and other holiday activities in the historical center of Fairhaven. Check the coming events listing at FairhavenTours.com for more information.

TOWN OF FAIRHAVEN

Office of Tourism 141 Main Street, Fairhaven, MA

508-979-4085 FairhavenTours@aol.com M,T,Th,F 8:30 - 4:30; Sat. 8:30 - 2:00 p.m.

http://FairhavenTours.com

Continued on page 37

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

35

CHARLIE THURSTON & REBECCA GIBEL

GIVE A GIFT PROGRAM This holiday season, we’re partnering with St. Vincent’s Home in Fall River.

We’ll be donating new, unwrapped gifts for the children and youths served by St. Vincent’s.

You can help! Come in to Plante’s any business day from November 1 – December 24.

Bring a gift for the children, and get a gift from us!

Every person who brings in a donation for our Give a Gift Program will receive a sterling silver bracelet!

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NEW BEDFORD

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

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Continued from page 35

Our Mission

Your Recovery

TIVERTON

There’s always something going on at Tiverton Four Corners – the Asylum Quartet will perform November 1. For details call 401-624-2600 or visit www.tivertonfourcorners.com or www. fourcornersarts.org.

The Sandywoods Center for the Arts will present the Magnolia Cajun Band on November 1 and December 6, as well as Forever Young November 22 and Abbey Rhode November 29. For a complete schedule, go to www.sandywoodsmusic. com or call 401-241-7349.

Regaining functionality following an illness, accident, hospitalization, or surgery is the focus of the rehab services we provide. Our rehab team is dedicated to helping you achieve superior results and a safe return home. ¡ ¡ ¡ ¡

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech/Language Therapy Respiratory Therapy

WAREHAM

The Gourmet and Gourmand Bakery downtown has closed its doors for good.

Plan ahead for a performance of “A Christmas Carol” at Buzzards Play Productions December 4 through 7, 12 through 14 and 19 through 21. For more info, go to www.buzzardsplayproductions. com or call 508-591-3065.

Don’t miss the “T’is the Season” Christmas parade December 6 on Main Street. For more info, go to www.warehamvillage.org.

WARREN

Head for 2nd Story Theatre! “Enron” plays through November 2, “Eleemosynary” plays through November 23. For details, call 401-2474200 or go to www.2ndstorytheatre.com.

WESTPORT

The Westport Library has hired an after-school assistant who can offer homework help.

“Concerts at the Point” will present Frederick Moyers and Jazz Trio on December 7. For details, visit www.concertsatthepoint.org or call 508-6360698.

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The South Coast Insider / November 2014

37

ON MY MIND

The $3.4 million email

BY Paul E. Kandarian

Soon, I will be rich beyond my wildest dreams. I know this because women in Burkina Faso email me and want to give me money.

Burkina Faso, I am told, is the capital of Ouagadougou which, I am told, is in Africa which, I am told incessantly by the media, is riddled with Ebola. But I digress.

These women are dying or have evil families and have $8.5 million due them for some vaguely technical reason which may or may not be legal, and to get it, apparently must give me 40 percent of it.

I recently got an email from 24-year-old Hanah John Paul Oulu whose father was killed in a coup or something. Before that her mother died. She is now under control of a “wicked stepmother,” she says, lending a Cinderella flavor to the poor girl’s life. That’s immaterial. What’s

38

material is the money she has promised me! I am so excited.

Hanah tells me, and I quote “I am soliciting your help for transferring of my inheritance fund into your bank account and investment assistance as my legal appointed trustee as the bank mentioned and it will be my intention to compensate you with 40 percent of the total fund for your services.”

Wow! Can you see why I am so excited? I immediately wrote back, and I quote: “How can I not help you after such a heartfelt letter? Your father killed!

You in the control of a wicked stepmother! I had a very loving mother, so I can’t imagine the pain you

November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

suffered. I do hope the $8.5 million helps ease it.

“I have no pain, just a lingering back ache from a war injury when I was once a missionary fighter in Angola, but my 40 percent, or $3.4 million, should go a long way to assuaging that pain! For that kind of money, I can rent a “wicked stepmother,” if you catch my drift. If not, never mind it’s not important.”

As you can imagine, she was touched. I could tell because she called me “Dad” in a follow-up letter shortly before, oddly enough, insisting on getting my bank account numbers.

So I wrote back, and I quote: “Dad? You called me Dad? Am I your Dad?

How old are you? I travel quite a bit but not sure I was ever in Burkina Faso where, one night drunk on fermented native roots and rotting goat entrails, I may have shown affection toward your mother and nine months later, you were born!

Happy to make your acquaintance my child!”

I cannot recall what information you had requested. Blood type?

Active sperm count? Do I wear boxers or briefs? Why small animals keep following me and smelling my feet (which I confess, do smell like road kill, maybe that’s why)? I don’t see what this has to do with my procuring the 40 percent of the $8.5 million you have coming,

but let me know what you need, and I will provide it!

“As soon, of course, as you provide me proof of my paternity of you, my sweet little girl! I may be presuming you are small, for all I know you could be the size of one of the village elephants! More to love when we finally meet, dear daughter!

And then, as strange luck would have it, I got another letter from another woman in Burkina Faso, this one dying from cancer, promising me 40 percent of $8.5 million after I provide my bank account information! I mean what’re the odds, right?

So I wrote back to her, and I quote: “What a small world! This is the second letter today from someone in Burkina Faso (do they have a Burger King there?) saying they’re in trouble and want to give me money! Are you related? You must all know each other right?

“I would love to help you. Please advise me how. But you should note I won’t be able to sign a check, as my hands were lost in an unfortunate farm-machinery accident. I’d stopped at a farm to ask directions to the nearest Burger King, tripped and fell into a nasty-looking machine

that – oops! – took my hands from the elbows down, turning them into mulch. I am typing this with my nose, and it’s not easy or clean, as I have dreadful allergies. “Let me know how to proceed. Quickly, though as you are apparently not long for this world and I could use the money for prosthetic hands. And, of course, Burger King!”

Oddly, I’ve not heard back from anyone, so I wrote Hanah today, and I quote: “My dearest Hanah daughter. I have not heard from you. Is all well?

I check my bank daily for evidence of the millions you vowed to send, but nothing so far. I am not sure what is wrong. Has your beloved Burkina Faso been overrun by elephants, stomping all the villagers to their squishy deaths? Is there a plague?

I hope it is not the dreaded Ebola virus that is sweeping the globe and threatening us all on the nightly news!

“Please, please respond, I miss you so! Oh, and my bank account number is 7. It’s a very small account, but will swell soon as you’ve promised!!”

There, I’m sure that will do it. If I don’t get Ebola first.

Caring for a mentally or physically disabled family member can be an emotional or financial concern.

If your loved one is currently on MassHealth Standard or Commonhealth insurance, you may qualify for financial assistance from Beacon Adult Foster Care. As a caregiver you are eligible for a monthly, tax-free payment while you provide the care your loved one needs in the comfort of your own home.

For more information call 774-202-1837 or visit our website www.beaconafc.com

The South Coast Insider / November 2014

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At Brandon Woods, We Love What We Do! We take pride in the care and support we provide to our residents and families on a daily basis.

It's nice to hear back from our families on the reasons why they love us, too!

DEDICATION This long overdue letter is to thank and commend all the wonderful people at Brandon Woods of Dartmouth for the dedication and care that my mother received during her four and a half year stay. During that time, I perceived that everyone, from the gracious receptionists, business office personnel, social workers, nursing staff, kitchen employees, activities staff, and maintenance people all work together to ensure that residents feel cared for and respected as well.

More specifically, I am compelled to send special thanks to Susan Plante and her staff on 2 South. I especially want to commend Sue for many reasons. In the time that my mother resided at 222 South, Sue provided professional care to my mother with warmth and a genuine desire to help her from the beginning of my mother's stay to her final days. Sue helped me and my family members understand the health concerns my mother faced and she did so with an engaging personality and a sensitive sense of humor. During Sue's time away from Brandon Woods so that she could further pursue her education, I sorely missed her. I missed her simply because she always communicated so clearly and consistently in regards to my mother's state and needs. Whenever I arrived to visit my mother and Sue happened to be working, she would take the time to touch base with me and discuss matters that affected my mother's well-being. Sue's candidness and concern assured me that my mother was in a good place. Sue is certainly an employee that is worth her weight in gold!

Beyond Sue's competence and wonderful personality, there are others on 2 South who merit further commendation. Standing out among the may caring workers are Maria Araujo, John Lopes and Sam Duggan. Each of these people showed exemplary professionalism and dedication to the residents of 2 South. Each demonstrated a genuine concern for their patients and always handled my mother's needs with patience, kindness, and compassion. They too are deserving of my thanks for their meritorious service.

In my mother's final days, my family and I were treated with great respect and were allowed to grieve her passing in private. During these past few months I have recalled so many incidents at Brandon Woods making me grateful that such places exist for our loved ones in need of constant care. The gift book I received from Brandon Woods, Forever Remembered, A Gift for the Grieving Heart, serves as appropriate testimony to the philosophy that all people deserve hope, love, and comfort when it concerns the care and loss of their loved ones. Brandon Woods of Dartmouth and its caring staff embody such a philosophy and for that I can't thank you enough.

Stop in today for a tour and to speak with an experienced staff member about how we can help you or your loved one!

We Offer: Short Term Rehabilitation • Skilled Nursing • Adult Day Health Centers Home Care Services • Senior Transportation Brandon Woods is JCAHO certified and accepts: Medicare, Medicaid, Private Pay, Senior Whole Health, Harvard Pilgrim, BCBS, VA & Tufts, United Health Care

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT EVA FEY AT 508.958.5920 567 DARTMOuTH STREET, SOuTH DARTMOuTH, MA 397 COuNTY STREET, NEW BEDFORD, MA

efey@elderservices.com www.elderservices.com Family Owned & Operated

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November 2014 / The South Coast Insider

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