A “sumo wrestler” had a unique perspective March 18 about the world-wide heath crisis known as the coronavirus. He held a multi-colored sign near the Boothay Harbor Hannaford’s entrance stating “Laughter is the best medicine.” Boothbay resident Tom Dewey was the “sumo wrestler” wearing an inflatable costume designed for special occasions. Dewey displayed the sign for nearly five hours eliciting honks from motorists supporting his plea. 

Dewey believes the health scare and self-quarantining will have a devastating impact on his employer, Coastal Maine Popcorn of Boothbay Harbor, and other small business around the globe. The pandemic has resulted in Coastal Maine Popcorn offering only curbside and delivery services. So he has more time on his hands as social distancing has become an important part of the daily human experience.

He decided to use humor to help the community deal with the pandemic. He made his sign and decided to display it prominently outside the local grocery store. “Even though we are all practicing social distancing, we still need to remember not to become socially distant,” he said. “This is a grave situation and I want us all to remember to take time to smile and laugh. If you take that out of the equation, it will leave us in a pretty sorry state.”

Dewey plans on expanding his message to Brunswick. He is considering dressing up again in the sumo wrestler costume and displaying his sign there.