This is one of a series of guest columns from candidates in contested races in the May 12 West Virginia Primary Election.

Any parent or grandparent knows that children will happily spend the better part of any nice day at the spray park. April Dawn Park in Milton used to be the only spray park in the area. A small corner in town with a few swings and things to climb on, with controlled patterns of water spouting out in the wet area, can provide hours of fun for children. It also has a beautiful picnic facility. Now Barboursville has a spray park and soon St. Clouds will have one. This was so needed in West Huntington and will, no doubt, be a busy destination for families.

A community center in the area would be another great addition, as has proven to be true in other parts of the city. Caring area residents and volunteers have made these facilities neighborhood hubs for youth and adults. Were so fortunate in Huntington to be among community-minded professionals who volunteer and organize activities at these centers. West Huntington is home to a large population of senior citizens, many of whom, like myself, are lifelong residents of the area. There is also a large senior citizens home on Madison Avenue. As much as seniors would benefit from informational sessions or just get-togethers at a great meeting place like a community center, they happen to be the people who have lived the longest and have accumulated the most wisdom to share with each other and everyone else. From help with homework to sporting activities, coordination of neighborhood watch programs, speakers and an occasional dinner, community centers are important to the areas that they serve.

I would like to see a Huntington Police field office in West Huntington. Huntington police officers are also great volunteers. Bringing residents and police officers together facilitates safer neighborhoods for people and for police officers.

Central City has so many unique places to visit that you wont find anywhere else, with some new small businesses dotted in the area. Of course, we want to see more of them. The Central City Days event is an annual reminder of everything the area has to offer. You can shop, eat and relax with a book any day of the year there. The gazebo on 14th Street West is available to rent for special events. West Huntington puts on a stellar Veterans Day parade every year that everyone should see.

I am a life-long resident of West Huntington. I know many of the residents and business owners well. Many of you know that I served as a county magistrate until my retirement last year. I spent years assisting people and families in resourcing the help that they needed. I think West Huntington needs a focused representative who is determined to address the needs of the area. I believe that I can do that.

Johnny McCallister is a Democratic candidate for Huntington City Council seeking to represent District 2.

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Johnny McCallister: West Huntington needs focused representative - Huntington Herald Dispatch

Rotherham-based Gala Tent is becoming more creative and has a number of solutions for those affected by COVID 19.

Founded in 1999, Gala Tent is one of the UK's leading producers of marquees, tents and gazebos. The group has seen a 5% growth at the end of the first quarter of 2020 and is still confident of further growth, despite the threat of the coronavirus and its impact on businesses.

Based at Fairfield Park in Manvers, Gala Tent has grown to sell over 15,000 tents and marquees each year, supplying organisations including the military, NHS, the South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue and South Yorkshire Police.

Jason Mace, managing director at Gala Tent, said: "I believe the country has a rough ride ahead over the next quarter, but we remain optimistic as in these types of situations is where Gala Tent becomes more creative.

"We are already seeing signs of where we can provide a vital service. The emergency services are some of our biggest market bases right now, where our Patent covers and easy to deploy pop up frameworks provide instant cover for Crime Scene Investigations, and we are also seeing an uptake in orders for tents for storage for hospitals. We are also ready to deploy portable hygiene testing tents when we get the go ahead."

Mace has already pledged that his staff will be paid in full until this pandemic is over.

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Darren Perry, sales manager at Gala Tent, said: "We have even had orders where individuals who would normally take their mother for Sunday Lunch have chosen to order a Gala Tent instead. Mums love the garden so why not? And especially if they are to isolate for up to three months, it seems to be the most logical gift."

Gala's sister company Gala Technology is also enjoying an uptake in business, with its homeworking payment solution SOTpay.

Gala Tent website

Images: Gala Tent

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News: Gala Tent has it covered - Rotherham Business News

Gilmore Girls premiered on the WB network on October 5th, 2000. The show was created by Amy Sherman-Palladino and stars Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel as Lorelei and Rory Gilmore, respectively, a mother-daughter duo that makes us laugh and cry and fall in love with them and every one in Stars Hollow week after week for seven seasons. The fast moving, original dialgoue Sherman-Palladino created when writing this series has become iconic and this creators trademark and most recognizable style.

RELATED: 10 Essential Gilmore Girls Episodes To Rewatch Before A Year In The Life Season 2

From the very first line, its clear that this show is different from anything else weve seen. The rate and utterance these actors recite the witty and well-constructed dialogue keeps audiences on their toes and really listening to every word because they know the joke is coming. Its been said that Amy Sherman-Palladinos scripts could be up to ninety pages for just one episode because of how well she could direct her actors to get a lot of dialogue out in the most perfectly entertaining way.

One of the most recognizable places in Stars Hollow is Lukes Diner. Its where Lorelei and Rory eat almost every meal and can frequently be seen there begging for more coffee from the diner owner, Luke.

RELATED: Gilmore Girls: 10 Characters Lorelei Could Have Been With Instead Of Luke

In most of the series, the diner sets on the corner of the Main Street in Stars Hollow and has a classic-looking interior. In the pilot, this diner seems to be tucked away in a somewhat residential area of town, and has more of a cluttered and rustic feel on the inside.

Lauren Graham as Lorelei and Alexis Bledel as Rory share undeniable chemistry that are every other mother and daughter envious. Its clear and stated from the very beginning that their relationship is special and rare because Lorelei had Rory when she was only sixteen years old, so theres a unique mix of friendship and parent-child relationships within this dynamic, but it plays perfectly. The women get each other so well and pick up on one another both as the characters and the actors playing the scenes.

Luke becomes a very important character in the series as the seven seasons play out, but in the pilot, hes more of a fly on the wall, theres to serve coffee and offer a grumpy judgment every once in a while.

RELATED: Gilmore Girls: 10 Crazy Facts You Didn't Notice About Lorelei And Rory

In the opening scene, Lorelei is being hit on by a sketchy guy, when she turns him away, he focuses in on Rory. Luke is standing behind the counter, watching and hearing the entire exchange, but he never steps in to kick the guy out, which is surprising now that we now where Lukes relationships with both. Lorelei and Rory go.

The stage is set perfectly for this show. Stars Hollow is that quiet little east coast town everyone wishes actually existed because everyone would love to live there. It seems as though all the people in Stars Hollow know each other and love each other, even when it doest seem like they do. Stars Hollow is simple. Theres the grocery store, the diner, the dance studio, the school, and the antique store and they all sit pretty close to the main street where in the center of the street, a gazebo sits and becomes an iconic centerpiece for the entire series.

For a show with such quick and quirky dialogue, the story itself moves rather slow, to the point where watching it back, you cant help but wonder if this show would even get made today.

RELATED: Gilmore Girls: 10 Details In Stars Hollow You Never Noticed

The pilot introduces everyone and we get a clear sense of where we are and who we are meeting, but nothing really happens. The show is very character driven, which in the early 2000s was compelling and fun to watch, especially in Sherman-Palladinos world, but today, it could potentially struggle to find its audience.

We meet Sookie, played by Melissa McCarthy, and its clear she is a brilliant, but accident-prone chef. Sookie runs the kitchen at the inn where Lorelei works and the two are very close friends. In one scene of the pilot, Sookie is cooking in the kitchen with her two soups chefs, only the sous chefs arent doing very much cooking. Instead, they follow Sookie around has she almost causes catastrophic incidences in a very short period of time. The scene is so well choreographed and executed, its a stand-out moment for the episode.

One of the main plot points in the pilot is that Rory gets accepted to a prestige private school called Chilton. Its a late acceptance because the school year has already started, but everyone is very excited and happy for Rory nonetheless.

RELATED: Gilmore Girls: 10 Reasons Lorelei & Sookie Aren't Real Friends

When Lorelei gets the acceptance letter, she tells Sookie, who jokingly asks if Lorelei had to sleep with the dean to get Rory into the school. When they tell Rory she got in, Rory makes the same joke and in todays climate, that joke doesnt really play very well.

Another major storyline introduced in the first episode is Rory and Deans love story. Dean is new to Stars Hollow and has been watching and admiring Rory from afar. He finally gets the nerve to talk to Rory on her last day in public school and that exchange makes Rory question her decision to move to private school. Rory and Dean have incredible chemistry right from the start and its obvious these two lovebirds story is only just beginning when we meet them in the pilot.

When Rory gets into Chilten, Lorelei quickly learns that she can not afford Chilten. Luckily, Lorelei comes from very wealthy parents, but un-luckily, she doesnt have the best relationship with her mother or her father. Lorelei, out of options, forces herself to go to parents to ask for the money for Rorys school. They are happy to help, but tell Lorelei she must agree to weekly dinners and phone calls to check in because they want to be a part of her and Rorys life. Lorelei reluctantly agrees, which makes us question Loreleis character because what her parents are asking for doesnt seem outlandish or that it should cause Lorelei to react the way that she does.

NEXT: Gilmore Girls: 5 Characters Who Got Fitting Endings (5 Who Deserved More)

Next10 Things That Happened in Season 1 of Game Of Thrones That You Completely Forgot About

Amelia Brantley is a writer and actor based in Los Angeles, California. Her love for film, television, and theater drove her to pursue her dreams at a young age. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Acting from The American Music and Dramatic Academy and constantly auditions/works in the industry. In addition to writing for ScreenRant, Amelia also blogs, on her own blog, as well as for other entertainment industry online resources. If she isn't writing or self-taping, she's most likely cuddling with her dog, Warner George.

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5 Reasons The Gilmore Girls' Pilot Is Perfect (& 5 It's Not) - Screen Rant

HOT SPRINGS -- A top-heavy eight-horse field in the $90,000 Gazebo Stakes for 3-year-old horses today at Oaklawn is an extreme long shot to take many minds off the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Gazebo purse itself is an example of ongoing changes at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort, led last week by the closure of racing-ground doors to fans and the facility's casino. As a byproduct of casino profit lost, limited on-track betting, and non-existent restaurant and concession sales, the track has reduced race purses as of today.

The Gazebo purse has been reduced from $125,000. Purses for maiden special-weight races have been cut from $87,000 to $60,000. Whereas an allowance-optional $62,500 claiming race paid a purse of $94,000 Friday, today the same will pay $64,000.

"We have to do that," Oaklawn President Louis Cella said. "It's not sustainable at the high-purse level when everything is shut down. It's not sustainable, so we have to have cuts. Quite honestly, I hate the phrase, it's an awful phrase, 'feel your pain', but we're all feeling the pain together. We're working with the horsemen, and they've been great. They understand it. We're working with them together. We're family, and we're going to get through this together."

"If anyone is going to complain that we're running, and the purses are cut, they need to have their head examined," trainer Robertino Diodoro said.

Gazebo morning-line second-choice Long Weekend trainer Tom Amoss is self-quarantined in southern Louisiana because of contact he had last Saturday with New Orleans Saints Coach Sean Payton, who was diagnosed with coronavirus Thursday. Trainer Jeremiah Englehart hosted Payton and is self-quarantined in Hot Springs.

Nevertheless, the races go on, at least for now, and Amoss has high hopes for Long Weekend, by Majestic Perfection, who won an optional-claiming 6-furlong race in 1:09.58 at Sam Houston Race Park in Houston on Feb. 19 in his last start.

"That race at Sam Houston was basically our prep for the Gazebo," Amoss said.

Amoss took on Long Weekend before his first race, a 5-furlong maiden special-weight, won in 58.48 at Churchill Downs on June 23. He said he immediately knew he had a sprinter in his barn.

"He's a very good sprinter," Amoss said.

In Lost Weekend's second of three career starts, six months before his win at Sam Houston, he finished sixth of seven in the Grade II 61/2-furlong Saratoga Special at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Aug. 10.

"We probably got in a little hurry with him to try such a big race as the one we did at Saratoga," Amoss said. "It set us back. In an effort to do right by the horse, we gave him some time off, and he's rewarded us."

Oaklawn's Gazebo is next up for Lost Weekend.

"I think he has every chance to be a top sprinter, and not just regionally, but on a national scale," Amoss said. "I'm hoping we can take our next step forward ... in the Gazebo."

Muddy Waters Stables' and Ingrid Mason's Lykan enters off a 6-furlong optional-claiming win, at 20-1, in 1:10.07 at Oaklawn on Feb. 23.

Lykan, trained by Mason, has a career record of 2-0-4. Both wins were ridden by Tyler Baze

Baze said he felt as if the Congrat's colt has just started to figure out what it takes to run fast.

"He's just been like a big baby, but he's working lights out and I think he's ready to go," Baze said. "Since he's been here at Oaklawn, after that last race, he's really feeling his oats. I know we'll probably be 10-1 or something, but I think the light bulb has kind of went on for him."

Baze said he knows the Gazebo is weighted with talent, perhaps led by 5-2 morning-line favorite Little Menace, a son of Into Mischief, owned by Phoenix Thoroughbred III, and conditioned by Hall of Fame trainer Steve Asmussen.

He also mentioned Hugh Robertson's Beau Oxy and Jack Dickerson's and Zack Ames' Marvin, both trained by Mac Robertson.

Baze said Lykan seems ready for the challenge.

"There are several good ones in there, but I like our chances," he said.

Rick Lee's Gazebo Stakes picks

9 The Gazebo. Purse $90,000, 6 furlongs, 3-year-olds

LONG WEEKEND*** defeated allowance rivals at Houston by nearly 7-widening lengths, and he has a series of strong works at Fair Grounds. The one to catch. BEAU OXY proved best of two winning an allowance race at Fair Grounds, while eased up late, and he drew a favorable post. LITTLE MENACE followed a decisive maiden win at Churchill with a determined allowance win over this track, and the steadily improving colt has enough speed to be in a good spot turning into the stretch.

PP HORSE JOCKEY TRAINER ODDS

4 Long Weekend Talamo Amoss 3-1

8 Beau Oxy Vazquez Robertson 7-2

5 Little Menace Cohen Asmussen 5-2

3 Lykan Baze Mason 8-1

6 Marvin Canchari Robertson 4-1

7 Fly to the Bank WDe La Cruz Helzer 10-1

1 No Shirt No Shoes Birzer Anderson 15-1

2 Nucky FDe La Cruz Miller 15-1

Sports on 03/21/2020

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Long Weekend looking to step it up in Gazebo - NWAOnline

Chrissy Teigen'snever-endingfeud with the Trump family is still persisting, even in the middle of a pandemic, which is forcing many into self-isolation.

Although the president has started to change his tone and offer a more robust response to the outbreak, Teigen has taken a shot at Melania Trump, whose silence on the pandemic has been very noticeable.

Even though the first lady has tweeted several times about the coronavirus and the precautions people should be taking, at the start of the month, she was sharing her plans for the construction of a tennis gazebo at the White House while new cases spread quickly across the world (including the US). And anyway, her husband claims he "always knew" it was a pandemic, so surely he told her?

Melania also mentioned in that tweet 'Be Best' an initiative set up by Melaniawhich concentrates onwell-being, online safety, and opioid abuse.

Given that basically everyone is in need, help or some reassurance right now, and we've already seen plenty of acts of goodwill, Melania hasn't really said much about spreading positive vibes.

This is what Teigen has taken exception too, when she branded Melania 'wife-bot' and slammed her 'tennis gazebo.'

She then went on to criticise Trump, calling him a "f**king loser wimp" and Melania for seemingly always wearing a cape.

Teigen'stweets, which often attract a lot of attention, even at the best of times, divided many, some of whom thought it was an justified criticism of Melania while some thought that this wasn't the right time to be criticising anyone.

Trump has begun to encourage US citizens to practice social distancing and avoid public gatherings after cases in America move above 6000, with a reported 108 people dying from the disease.

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Chrissy Teigen asks 'wife-bot' Melania Trump what she is doing during the pandemic other than building a 'tennis gazebo' - indy100

Angela Vinet, Special to USA Today Network Published 9:00 a.m. CT March 15, 2020

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Perfectly situated on a bend in the bayou, 1978 Woodlake Drive has sweeping water views and massive lake frontage that will have homeowners living in a peaceful retreat every day of the year.

Located in North Louisianas fastest growing city, Benton, this home has1.6 acres to stroll in wooded Woodlake North Subdivision. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets reflected in the pristine waters of Black Bayou from the comfort of any outdoor living space in the backyard. These spaces have been designed to enjoy outdoor living - from the expansive, covered back deck to the steps leading towardthe inground swimming pool deck and gazebo where homeowners will find plenty of outdoor spaces to entertain.

Enjoy sweeping water views and massive lake frontage in the peaceful retreat of 1978 Woodlake Drive.(Photo: Courtesy)

Newly re-plastered, the freshwater pool is ready to make a splash this summer while the two-stall boathouse can easily hold water craft in the electric lifts.

The homes formal and informal spaces boast lovelywater views, and with a recently remodeled kitchen, dining in will be a treat for any occasion to watch the sun rise or set.

The more fashion inclined will be able to choose from any of the three walk-in closets for dressing in the master suite. During severe weather, homeowners can also rest well knowing that one of the closets is a reinforced storm shelter.

The covered back deck has steps that lead to the inground swimming pool, deck and gazebo.(Photo: Courtesy)

With two heated and cooled office spaces within the 24 ft. deep two-car garage, generational living could be an option if looking to add to the home.

Eco-friendly solar panels and a lake-fed sprinkler system allow homeowners to use their resources efficiently. Friendly and inviting, the neighborhood offers a boat launch for all to enjoy.

For more information or a private tour of this Black Bayou dream, call Misty Bording at 517-4788.

More: Black Bayou estate nestled on 4 acres offers peaceful living

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Live the Louisiana dream in Black Bayou mansion - Shreveport Times

When you cant stand being stuck inside a moment longer, turn to a refreshed outdoor space to provide a breath of fresh air.

Does increased working from home and social distancing have you feeling a little stir-crazy? When your couch, home office and kitchen table become places you dread, theres one refuge to turn to: Your outdoor space.

As temperatures rise and the sun peeks out more and more, its a great time to spruce up your yard, patio or deck, and take in a big breath of fresh air when youre feeling oh-so stressed out. Here are some ideas from small to large for making your outdoor area your happy place.

Add an instant dose of color to any size space with early blooming flowers. Bright bulbs make a huge difference on our gray spring days, says Mark S. Garff, principal at SCJ Studio Landscape Architecture.As the bulbs go dormant, you can add more spring annuals and perennials in the same containers.

If you missed last falls planting window for spring blooms, try buying potted daffodils and tulips, which generally last as long as those planted in the ground. Once the blooms fade, plant the bulbs outdoors for happy color next year.

Garff also has recommendations for native plants that are great for small spaces: sword fern (for shady spots), creeping Oregon grape (partial shade), western iris (full sun) and tiger lilies (full sun).

For larger spaces, Garff suggests the Northwest natives of red-flowering currant,oceanspray, vine maple, evergreen huckleberry and the Pacific madrone tree, all of which thrive in partial to full sun.

If youre looking to incorporate large containers, Garff says theres a formula to follow:You need a thriller something tall, flowering or striking in texture; a spiller a groundcover or annual that will trail over the side of the container; and some filler something in the middle with contrasting texture to the other plants.

Buying plants is also a great way to support local businesses. Garffs go-to nurseries are Swansons, in Crown Hill, and Sky Nursery, in Shoreline. They both have friendly and knowledgeable staff, Garff says, along with a wide variety of plant options and striking premade container arrangements. Of course, if you visit any store, be sure to practice social distancing and check operating hours online before you go.

When restrictions ease and youre in the Portland area, Garff recommends Cistus Nursery on Sauvie Island (it also has mail order). Its a small nursery, but so worth a visit, he says.Make sure, when you visit, you tell them where you live. Its just a bit warmer in Portland, and that might make the difference for some of the plants.

Its OK if youre not up for a lot of hardscaping; creating an outdoor sanctuary can be as simple as a trip to the nearby hardware store (or its website if youd rather not visit in person). There youll find easy-to-install hammocks, hanging chairs and rope swings for lazing on crisp, sunny days.

You can also create a simple bistro setup, out on the grass or under the shade of a tree, with a pair of outdoor chairs and round table (Fermobs colorful French-inspired pieces are a popular, durable choice). Come sunset, add lanterns or candles to the tabletop for happy hour at home.

To transform the atmosphere further, hang twinkle lights (be sure they are made for outdoor use) and accessorize with stylish outdoor throw pillows and rugs to add warmth and coziness on cool evenings.

If youre feeling ambitious, pick up some pavers to make a stepping path or DIY patio. Garff cautions that working with pavers is more labor intensive than it seems, and it may be best to hire professionals. Instead, if youre up for a challenge and looking for a quick way to create a usable outdoor living space, Garff recommends crushed rock.

You can get crushed rock from Pacific Topsoils, the Dirt Exchange and other suppliers. It comes in different sizes, so be sure to look at the rock before you buy it, says Garff, who notes the material makes for a clean surface with a pleasing crunch. Once the crushed rock is down, you can always add more-expensive pavers on top of it later.

Be sure you wont disrupt any buried cables or lines before you start your project and that you have a clear plan for your pattern. Garff suggests looking for free materials from sites such as Freecycle, Buy Nothing, Next Door or Craigslist. Since youll want level ground to work on, consider renting a plate compactor from the hardware store to help keep everything even.

An outdoor renovation can completely alter how you experience your backyard, and there are countless options when it comes to outdoor structures. These projects, however, are best left to the experts.

Decks, platforms, gazebos and structures should be designed by a professional, says Garff.Imagine having a party on your deck you want it to be designed to safely handle the weight of the people.

Garff points out that, depending on where you live and your propertys configuration, its also wise to consult a professional landscape architect to help you navigate any permits you may need.

Transforming and expanding a deck, constructing an outdoor dining platform, putting in a patio and outdoor fireplace, or incorporating a gazebo are just some of the many ways you can take your outdoor living space to the next level.

When it comes time to hire a professional, make sure you click, as youll be working closely on design and material decisions and budgeting. Youll want to hire a designer or contractor who has worked on similarly sized projects before, and in the same city, so that theyre familiarwith local codes and regulations, says Garff.If its a complex or large project, or if you need permits, youll want to see that type of work in their portfolio.

Its also important to do your homework before starting a project. To keep everyone on the same page and ensure clear communication, be sure you have a plan and budget in mind before any earth is cracked.

Sustainability is becoming a more important factor when it comes to designing outdoor structures. As such, Garff has stopped recommending the Brazilian hardwood ipe. Essentially, the ipe trade is destroying the rainforest and it will never be replaced, says Garff, who recommends renewable alternatives such as black locust wood and fused bamboo.

Composite lumbers are also a choice Garff favors for decks since they are eco-friendly and made partially or entirely of recycled materials. Composite lumber outlasts wood by 1030 years and doesnt need to have the finish renewed like natural woods, says Garff. Yet another reason to build sustainably and ensure your beautiful new outdoor living space endures.

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How to refresh your outdoor space, and keep your sanity, when you're stuck at home | Produced by Advertising Publications - Seattle Times

Outdoor renovation by Vision Scapes, Backyards are becoming glamorous, multi-purpose three-season outdoor living spaces, with outdoor kitchens and covered decks. Photo supplied by Vision ScapesJamen Rhodes photo / jpg

Spring has finally arrived and its time to think about the warmer months ahead and how to best enjoy them in your own backyard.

Canadian winters can be cold, long and dark, so when summer arrives we want to do all we can to maximize our time spent outdoors, says Meaghan Wilkinson, director of marketing for Hisense Canada. A backyard oasis is a place to relax quietly, or gather with family and friends for food, drink and conversation. The more we replicate outside what we have in our homes, the more quality time we can spend outdoors.

Wilkinson says its the little things that add to the whole.

Comfy seating is a must, and if placed under a gazebo, you can enjoy it in almost any weather. Such a structure also enables you to safely install a television outdoors, mounted on the wall and protected from the elements, she says. Hisenses Quantum Dot technology features a higher contrast range that makes good viewing whether you are watching in the middle of the afternoon or after the sun goes down.

Take the kitchen outside as well, says Wilkinson.

People gravitate towards the kitchen, and its not much different outside, she says. The grill is where the magic happens, and where people gather to swap stories and share some laughs. A must in any outdoor kitchen is a fridge incorporated into the design, not only to keep food chilled and safe, but also to ensure cold drinks are close at hand.

For more information, go to http://www.hisense-canada.com

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Bring your backyard up to oasis status - The London Free Press

Newsday is opening this story to all readers so Long Islanders have access to important information about the coronavirus outbreak. All readers can learn the latest news at newsday.com/LiveUpdates.

After 40 years of sobriety, Roy Kearse of Amityville no longer worries about relapsing into the black hole of heroin addiction that once landed him in prison and nearly cost him his life.

But for those still grappling with their recovery and who rely heavily on the structure of in-person meetings and group sessions the forced isolation sparked by the coronavirus pandemic is a nightmare scenario that some experts fear could lead to a public health crisis.

People are afraid, said Kearse, who serves as vice president of recovery at Samaritan Daytop Village, a Queens-based drug treatment center. During times of crisis we always have to worry about people relapsing So will some people fall through the cracks? Probably so. And will some people relapse? Probably so.

A perfect storm

As fears of the COVID 19 outbreak spread in recent weeks, many on social media posted memes facetiously asking how much wine or tequila would be needed to make it through the quarantine. News stories with instructions on how to make the perfect quarantini cocktail flooded the internet while thirsty Americans flooded liquor stores to stock up on supplies.

For others, though, the federal guidelines that recommend limiting social gatherings to 10 or fewer people is no joking matter.

Across Long Island, Alcohol Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings have been canceled or moved into online settings, limiting vital in-person options for substance abuse addicts struggling in real-time to adapt to a new reality of social distancing.

Treatment experts fear the worst.

Even for those not in recovery, the coronavirus has many concerned about their health, along with the safety of their loved ones. Anxiety about a cratering economy is natural, experts say, while fears about job loss can serve as atrigger that causes many who are thriving in recovery to slip backward.

Addiction expert Jeffrey Reynolds, president and chief executive of the Mineola-based Family and Children's Association, calls the coronavirus a perfect storm for the recovery community.

Its a doomsday scenario and something thats really, really difficult for folks to manage, Reynolds said. I am already seeing folks that are struggling to maintain their recovery.

Steve Chassman, executive director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, said the primary concern is for individuals in recovery or treatment who have become disengaged from their self-help routine and seek relief in a bottle or a needle. Experts also expect a steep decline in new patients seeking treatment for substance abuse addictions.

"There are heightened levels of fear and self-medication is often part of that, Chassman said. For people new to the recovery process you bring a heightened sense of fear and anxiety. Coupled with a lack of social, if not moral support, it does put people at risk.

Options available

With churches and nonprofits canceling 12-step meetings, treatment providers have transitioned to an array of remote services to treat clients.

The state has expanded telehealth options, allowing many organizations to expand their ability to conduct video and phone conferencing with patients. Many groups alreadyhad 24-hour hotlines in place.

Residential drug treatment programs have transitioned from group sessions to more one-on-one meetings, experts said. Some self-help meetings are being broadcast online while pockets of smaller AA or NA groups are arranging ad hoc meetings in outdoor settings. A recent AA meeting, for example, was held in a Northport gazebo, Chassmansaid.

It can seem like an interruption for people in self-help which is not helpful for people in recovery, he said. But I think you are going to find that the [AA] messageof recovery will prevail and that for 84 years the concept of one substance abuser looking after another is unparalleled.

A 48-year-old East Meadow resident who has been sober from alcohol for the past four years said he is not particularly concerned about his own recovery. The man, who asked for his name not to be used to respect AAs tradition of privacy, said he has signed up for several virtual meetings on Zoom, the videoconferencing app.

But he is concerned about individuals who are new to the program and who rely on the security of in-person meetings.

I am concerned that this is a perfect excuse for newcomers not to continue with their sobriety and not go forward because if there are no meetings, well the liquor store is open, said the man, who sells security equipment for a Manhattan company. I am not as concerned about people in theprogramfor a long time. But everyone is concerned for the newcomer.

Systematic weaknesses

Transitioning to a remote treatmentprocess is not without significant challenges.

Nurses who would typically be needed to dispense medication at residential facilities are in high-demand at hospitals. Emergency rooms are likely to become so inundated with coronavirus patients, providers fear, that doctors and nurses will have limited time and resources to treat only the most severe substance abuse cases and overdoses.

A crisis like this brings to bear weaknesses in thesystem, said John Coppola, executive director of the New York Association of Addiction Services and Professionals. The addiction field has been underfunded for years and has barely kept pace with inflation.

Treatment professionals say the coronavirus outbreak could not have come at a worse time, just as Long Island appears to have finally turned the corner on the opioid crisis.

Opioid-related deaths in Suffolk dropped a projected 26 percent last year, from 380 in 2019 to 283 in 2019, according to the countys Heroin and Opiate Epidemic Advisory Panel. Nassau officials have said 147 people died of overdoses in 2018, a 20 percent dip from the 184 fatal overdoses in 2017, according the countys most recent data.

The two counties saw a combined 617 opioid-related deaths in 2017, largely driven by the introduction of inexpensive, but highly potent drugs such as fentanyl, according to data from area medical examiners.

Treatment providers say they have made too much progress in combating the opioid epidemic to allow the virus to take them backward. They are embracing technology, spending more time on calls and video conferences with patients and finding creative ways to stay in touch.

Reynolds said telemedicine is not perfect but its better than nothing. We are making the best of it. There will be fallout, no doubtabout that. But I think it will force a new way of delivering behavioral health Its a seismic shift for people in recovery.

While treatment options may change, Kearse said its essential that societys most vulnerable do not feel abandoned during this crisis.

We in the provider community feel strongly that social distancing does not have to translate into social isolation, he said. They may not be able to come into centers but we want them to know there is a lifeline for them.

Substance Use and Mental Health Resources

Robert Brodsky is a breaking news reporter who has worked at Newsday since 2011. He is a Queens College and American University alum.

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Experts fear those recovering from addictions at risk - Newsday

Property

Bumping into passerby at your usual green spaces? Pay a visit to these off-the-beaten-path outdoor areas.

Living in the city at the moment, you may be thinking to yourself, why have I done this? All of the restaurants and shops that make going out so fun have closed, our subways with all of their fingerprinted poles look less appetizing than ever, and the spacious yards of the suburbs we typically turn our noses up at suddenly seem pretty nice. Last years study showing that Boston ranks among the nations lowest for green space per capita certainly isnt helping things, now that were trapped inside and our indoor plants just arent cutting it. The good news is that the citys Parks and Rec department actually maintains an impressive 217 parks, playgrounds, and fields, and most of us have probably paid a visit to a small fraction of those.

If your favorite green space is a little too crowded for comfort, or if youve been to the Boston Common every day and just need a change of scenery, make your way to one of these hidden gemssolo, with your social distancing companions, or within six feet of a running partner. Spring is on the way, so get out there and trigger those seasonal allergies!

Forest Hills Cemetery

If you know Forest Hills only as the last stop on the Orange Line, nows the time to venture out there. Not only is this garden cemetery a National Historic Place, its also a 172-year-old burial ground where you can find the gravestones for late notables, such as poets Anne Sexton and E. E. Cummings. Victorian mausoleums, sculptures, and even a lovely lake populate the 275-acre arboretuman excellent alternative to the popular Arnold Arboretum. Its still open for the moment, but check their website for updates before heading over.

Chandler Pond

Looking for a Brighton spot that isnt ringed with runners like Chestnut Hill Reservoir? Sequestered somewhere between St. Elizabeths and Oak Square, this pool was excavated by horticulturist William C. Strong to serve as a giant ice box, long before the days of refrigeration. Today, you can quickly freeze ice into any shape and size, but the man-made pond remains an underrated spot to sit on the grass by the water, and look across at the castle-like seminary and the cute Brighton homes perched on the perimeter. There is a short path, but mostly, the best thing to do here is take a seat and enjoy the fresh air.

Kendall Center Rooftop Garden

Everyone knows secret gardens are the speakeasies of nature. And if that garden happens to be on a rooftop? Even cooler. Just across from the Kendall T station, find the elevator in the parking garage next to the Marriottbig green letters spelling out Kendall Square Roof Garden will help point you in the right direction. Be very careful about either not touching the elevator buttons with your fingers, or cleaning your hands very thoroughly afterwards. Once up there, you can enjoy a picnic at one of the tables (be sure to pack hand sanitizer), and enjoy the building-top views. The garden is open for now, though it wouldnt hurt to give Kendall Center a call to confirm before filling your picnic basket.

Screenshot via Google Streetview

Amory Playground

Just down the street from Coolidge Corner, this outdoor area is a block away from Beacon, off Amory Street, and features a varied landscape with plenty to explore. The park is filled with tennis courts and baseball fields that are likely free of team sports or spectators at the moment, and are very open for wandering around with your dog (or hey, well-behaved cat). The grounds join with Amory Woods and Halls Pond Sanctuary, and a handicapped accessible path winds under a gazebo, through wooded wetlands, and connects with a boardwalk to pass over Halls Pond (take a peek at the path map here). Theres even a small parking lot on site.

The Back Bay Fens

Starting at the Boston Common and looping around the neck of the peninsula to Franklin Park, walking along Frederick Law Olmsteds Emerald Necklace is a stunning way to see several Boston neighborhoods and pass a sunny afternoon. Google Maps estimates that if you start at the northern gem and end in Roxbury, making sure to hit all of the green jewels along the way, it should take about three hours and 17 minutes to cover the 9.6 milesnot accounting for time to pause and ogle at nature along the way. If you dont have quite so much time, though, go straight to the Fens, where you can stroll through the Kelleher Rose Garden and one of the only remaining Victory Gardens left from WWII.

Revere Beach

Spring may be on its way, but its not quite warm enough to break out bathing suits yetand thats precisely the reason why going to the beach is a genius move right now. Theres plenty of room to stay far away from any other ocean admirers, you can pick virtually any spot to lay down your towel, and nows your chance to finally build the boundless sandcastle of your dreams, without worrying about some other kid crashing through it. Live closer to a different beach? The same logic appliesgo take that romantic seaside saunter a flirty six feet away from your date.

Neponset River Reservation

You may not be able to grab a bite from Yellow Door Taquerias Dorchester brick and mortar for the time beingthough you can have their mouthwatering tacos delivered to your doorbut if youre already in Lower Mills, you shouldnt miss the chance to hop on a bike and glide along the Neponset River Greenway, which is about five miles from end to end. Separating Boston from Quincy and Milton, and connecting Boston Harbor to Blue Hills Reservation, the waterways paved path is the perfect way to get out of the city.

See more here:
Seven Tucked Away Parks around Boston to Visit While Social Distancing - Boston magazine