For something completely different, I have music stuck in my head—and as usual, it pertains to my state of mind. I wish I could claim that it has something to do with being a savant of some sort, but sadly, not so much. This weird syndrome has gone on in my brain for so many years that I’ve stopped questioning why, and just let the endless melodies play on, hoping that inspiration will strike a chord.

This morning it’s the Beatles’ 1965 classic “Help” reverberating, and the lyrics do indeed seem to be relevant. (“When I was younger, so much younger than today, I never needed anybody’s help in any way.”) Hmm. As many of you know, I have been a bit out of the loop, recovering from surgery, and have certainly needed help, which thankfully has been offered and gratefully accepted—like the accompanying photograph and information about the Great Sullivan County Food Raiser earlier this month, provided by Brian Smith. I missed it, but understand it was a huge success.

Since my independence seems to have “vanished in the haze,” this kind of help—reporting back to me on some of these events that I cannot attend— would be invaluable. Commentary, photographs, even your own (humble) opinions would be most welcome while I’m cooped up. Email me at jonathanfox@riverreporter.com, or post on The River Reporters Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-River-Reporter/151350328263713) with your own words and pictures—any contributions are most welcome—just know “that I need you like I’ve never done before!”

I’d like to be able to get out and see the current exhibit “Middle Ground” (paintings by Kathe Blackbird and woodcuts by Matthew Zappala) showing at the Catskill Art Society (www.catskillartsociety.org) in Livingston Manor but “now these days are gone, I’m not so self assured. Now I find I’ve changed my mind [and need help to] open up the doors.” Several of my peeps have offered to drive me to some of these events, so... give me a call—I’d love to go.

Speaking of art, the exhibit “Denial,” which spotlights block prints by Joyce Ellen Weinstein, will soon be coming to the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA, www.artsalliancesite.org) in Narrowsburg, NY. Wondering how I can make it there, the Beatles intervene and suggest that I ask you to “help me if you can, I’m feeling down, and I do appreciate you being ‘round.” Truth be told, it’s more than a bit frustrating to be housebound, with no way (much less strength) to get out and about, but the show runs from February 25 through March 17, so I’m hopeful that someone will (“please, please help me”) get to the gallery!

Another DVAA event, the “Benefit Show,” debuts this Saturday, the 18th, featuring guest artists Beau Gostomsky, Matteo Trisolini, Wayne Sanderson, Hugh Hysell and resident artists David Bush, Ellany Gable, Janet Rutkowski, Walter Kenul, Tom Holmes, Laurie Stuart and James Hawley, presented by Brook House Gallery (www.brookhousegallery.com). I’ve already sent my regrets for the opening reception, but feel free to give me a shout if you’re planning to check out the gallery after next week.

My Beatles play list is momentarily upstaged by the Supremes (“whenever you’re near, I hear a symphony”) as I discover that a concert is on my calendar: The Sullivan County String Orchestra, presenting a premiere performance featuring Leopold Mozart’s “Toy Symphony,” and sponsored by Nesin Cultural Arts, is scheduled for February 26 at 4 p.m at the Eugene D. Nesin Theatre, 22 St. John’s Street in Monticello. Not so far from home—maybe I should just crawl there on my hands and knees?

There are a few other areas in which I could solicit a little help. Foremost on my mind, with my iPad resting on my lap, is The River Reporter’s website, newly revamped last year (www.riverreporteronline.com). Take a moment and check it out. I’m keeping busy at home working on building our fan base. Oh, and one more thing: for those of you on Facebook (and if you’re not, now is as good a time as any, IMHO) please do me a favor, check out our presence there (www.facebook.com/pages/The-River-Reporter/151350328263713) and “like” our page.

I’m usually (over) confident in my abilities, but currently, I’m not only actively seeking help, but am dangerously close to groveling (don’t make me go there!). Yes, with every day, I grow a little stronger, but since it will be a while before I can stand on my own two feet and reclaim my independence, I make a feeble attempt to stand before you all, opinionated (as always) but humbled. Won’t you please, please help me?