Bristol County District Attorney Thomas M. Quinn III and New Bedford Police Chief David Provencher announced that two individuals have been arrested in connection with the Saturday night homicide of 66-year-old Donald DePina.

On Monday night, State Police assigned to this office and New Bedford Police arrested Alexander Mills, 18, of New Bedford, and a 16-year-old juvenile male. Mr. Mills will be arraigned this morning in New Bedford District Court on charges connected to the homicide. The exact charges he faces will be announced in open court during his arraignment.

The juvenile will also be arraigned this morning in New Bedford Juvenile Court. Due to his status as juvenile, no details can be provided about him or his case at this time.

The investigation was coordinated by Co-First Assistant District Attorney Patrick Bomberg and Assistant District Attorney Aaron Strojny.

Police received a 911 call regarding an unresponsive man in the area of the parking lot at Brooklawn Park around 11 p.m. Saturday evening. When police arrived at the scene, they found a male victim in that area of the park.

The man, who was later identified as 66-year-old Donald DePina, of New Bedford, was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 12:08 a.m. Sunday.

Photo from www.newbedfordschools.org

An informational meeting for neighbors of the new William H. Taylor School at Sea Lab will be held on Tuesday, December 1, at 5:00 p.m. in the cafeteria/auditorium at Sea Lab, 71 Portland Street.

Information about the beginning construction of the new Taylor School will be provided to local residents.

At John Hannigan School/Sea Lab, the traffic pattern has changed in the school parking lot: buses are now entering the campus from the Fort Street side, through the west driveway, and exiting to Brock Avenue via Belmont Street. New sidewalks have been added to the east and west entrances for ease of access. Construction equipment will be stored at the nearby East Beach parking lot.

Last evening at approximately 4:30 p.m., Troopers Andrew Mason and Jason Trout, who are assigned to the Troop D Community Action Team (CAT), stopped an Audi A4 on Route 138 at Weir Street in the city of Taunton for motor vehicle violations.

As a result of an investigation, two passengers were identified as JUHKWON G. THOMAS, 20, of Dorchester and REGINALD JENKINS, 18, of Taunton. JENKINS was found to be in possession of a dangerous weapon (brass knuckles). A search of THOMAS, revealed a .380 Cobra Enterprise handgun, ammunition, and bags containing substances believed to be heroin and crack cocaine, as well as a knife in a sheath hanging from his neck. Later, a check of the firearm revealed that it was reported stolen by Doraville, Georgia Police.

Both men were placed under arrest. The driver, was also found to be in possession of Suboxone, and was issued a summons.

THOMAS was charged with the following:

Improper storage of a firearm
Carrying a firearm with ammunition
Possession of ammunition without a FID card
Unlawful possession of a firearm
Receiving stolen property +$250
Possess to distribute class A drug (Heroin)
Possess class B drug (Cocaine)
Conspiracy to violate drug law

JENKINS was charged with the following:

Carrying a dangerous weapon
Conspiracy to violate drug law

Both men were each held on $2500 bail, pending arraignment this morning in Taunton District Court.

Meet Manuel Mederios, 64-year-old barber in New Bedford.

Manuel and his family migrated to New Bedford when he was only 12 years old and has lived here ever since. When he first got his barber’s license he managed a barbershop on Union street for a few years before opening his own, Your Father’s Mustache, right around the corner.

Since opening the shop he has been in operation for 33 years and has become a landmark in the Purchase street landscape. He loves the cities sense of community, as it has allowed him to build his business through word of mouth, which he continues to do without any advertising.

He hopes that the city’s economy has a resurgence of job opportunities. He remembers when someone could lose their job in the morning and have a new one by the evening time and sees the potentional for that to return.

“Remain grateful. Somebody might have driven by 4-5 barbershops to get here and I always stay humbled every time someone walks through the door.”

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Faces of New Bedford is a project by Colton Simmons. If you are interested in booking a shoot or getting prints from the series email all inquiries to colton@coltonsimmons.com

Follow Colton on Instagram: https://instagram.com/simmonscolton

The Massachusetts State Police on Tuesday December 1st will kick off our annual participation in the Toys for Tots campaign led by the United States Marine Corps.

At 11:00 a.m., the State Police Deputy Superintendent, Lieutenant Colonel Francis P. Hughes, along with Troopers, Marines and Santa Claus, will gather at the South Boston State Police Barracks, 125 William Day Boulevard, South Boston.

For the past 31 years, the Massachusetts State Police has worked with the Marines to collect toys for needy children by using State Police Barracks as drop off locations and assisting with the Toys for Tots program throughout the state.

“More than ever, in this, the season of giving, we need your help,” said Colonel Richard D. McKeon, superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police. “Your assistance can make holiday joy possible for a child who otherwise would go without. Every girl and boy deserves a gift this holiday season. Please help us make that difference in their lives.”

Donors are asked to give new, unwrapped toys with non-violent themes, designed for either boys or girls, ages newborn to 14. Toys can be dropped off at any State Police Barracks through Wednesday, Dec. 16.

The State Police 6th annual “Fill the Cruiser” event is scheduled for December 5th, 2015 from 10am-4pm. There are ten Toys ‘R’ Us locations statewide, they are Auburn, Dedham, Framingham, Kingston, Northborough, North Dartmouth, Peabody, Springfield, Swansea, and Woburn. During this event Troopers and Marines will be collecting donations for Toys for Tots. We hope that you will join us in kicking off this event and spreading the word of a worthy cause.

For more information on the Toys for Tots program may visit the program’s website at www.toysfortots.org. Those wishing to make a monetary donation can mail a check made out to Toys for Tots MA to MSP Toys for Tots Coordinator 124 Acton Street Maynard MA.

New Bedford Police, Massachusetts State Police detectives assigned to this office, and Homicide Unit prosecutors are actively investigating a homicide, which occurred in The City of New Bedford late Saturday evening.

Police received a 911 call regarding an unresponsive man in the area of the parking lot at Brooklawn Park around 11 p.m. Saturday evening. When police arrived at the scene, they found a male victim in that area of the park.

The man, who was later identified as 66-year-old Donald DePina, of New Bedford, was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment of an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the hospital at 12:08 a.m. today.

The state Medical Examiner’s Office has taken custody of the deceased and will perform an autopsy.

Description of the two suspects:

A blond male around 5’9, thin build, red hoodie and a Hispanic male around 5’4 with wavy hair and a blue hoodie. Both suspects are between 14-18 years old.

The Greater New Bedford unemployment rate is much higher than the rest of Massachusetts, but believe it or not there really are a lot of available for qualified applicants. Sometimes the barrier to a new job can be the lack of information on available job openings.

To solve this, each week New Bedford Guide will pull jobs from our jobs database to inform job seekers about the hottest jobs in the area.

We will define “Hot Jobs” as those jobs that need to be filled by the employer immediately. For those looking to search some large job databases, checkout my Best Job Search Resources for New Bedford Residents article.

Here are the Hot Jobs in the New Bedford area from the NewBedfordGuide.com jobs database, as of November 27, 2015:

01. Freight Handler/Receiver – FHI (Freetown)
Freight Handlers needed on 1st & 2nd shifts! These are full time positions with benefits starting after 60 days. Handlers unload trailers delivering product to general merchandise distribution warehouses and use powered industrial equipment (Powered pallet jacks, Fork lifts, Dock stockers) as the primary means of removing product from the trailer; however, hand stacking cases of product is an integral and repetitive part of the unloading process. Work is performed in a warehouse setting and is physically demanding. Full job descriptions here.

02. HVAC Service & Installation Technician
Brodeur & Sons, Inc., is currently seeking EXPERIENCED HVAC SERVICE & INSTALLATION TECHNICIAN for an immediate opening. Oil burner license and CDL/Hazmat license a plus, but not necessary. If you are a hard worker with dedication to superior customer service, please call our office for an interview. We can be reached at 508-995-5151 or at phbrodeur@aol.com. Or stop by our office at 525 Church Street, New Bedford, MA 02745, office hours are Monday through Friday 8am to 4:30pm. Full details and application process here.

03. Bank Teller – Santander Bank (Fairhaven)
As a member of Santander’s retail banking division you’ll help serve Santander’s retail and small business customers as part of one of the top banks in the United States based on deposits. With principal presence in the northeast U.S., Santander’s retail division offers consumer and lending products to help our customers reach their financial goals. Santander currently serves nearly 2 million retail customers and 5.2% of the 2.7 million small businesses in the US footprint have a transactional account with Santander Bank. Full details and application process here.

04. Crew Member – Wendy’s (Fairhaven)
The responsibilities and qualifications described above are for positions at Wendy’s International, Inc. company-owned and operated restaurants. A large percentage of Wendy’s restaurants are independently owned and operated franchised Wendy’s restaurants. Job descriptions, compensation, benefits and other employment terms and conditions applicable to positions at independent franchised Wendy’s Restaurants will vary and are determined solely by the Franchisee. Full details and application process here.

05. Counter – Autopart International, Inc (New Bedford)
$18 an hour. Come Join the Better Ingredients, Better Pizza Team as a Delivery Driver for our restaurant…Where you can earn up to $18 hr Besides your enthusiasm and a great work ethic, here is what you need for this job: Full details and application process here.

06. Assistant Store Manager – Autopart International, Inc (New Bedford)
Assist in the day-to-day store operations
Determine and fulfill customer needs for automotive parts through lookup and sourcing. Complete sales for customers over the phone; enter orders in to computer system. This includes learning proper credit card and check procedures. Assist management with daily call lists and promotions; develop strong business relationships with Customers. Process and receive returned items and stock orders, and perform any other light duty tasks as specified by the manager. Full details and application process here.

07. Janitorial/Warehouse – Julius Koch USA, Inc. (New Bedford)
Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Start rate commensurate with experience. Perform maintenance of office, restrooms, cafeteria and some areas of manufacturing area and grounds: sweeping, dusting, cleaning surfaces, replenishing supplies, washing, waxing and buffing floors. May unload materials from trucks and transport to locations. Pick up reusable scrap and regular trash from all areas of facility and transport to locations. May shovel snow. Set up and break down tables, chairs, etc. and other related activities. Full details and application process here.

08. Part Time Delivery Driver – Rent-A-Center (New Bedford)
As a Product Delivery Specialist, you’ll be delivering more than just merchandise. You’ll play a critical role in delivering on our promise to provide our customers with excellent customer service and the brand-name items they can be proud to have in their homes. Benefits for Part-Time Coworkers include: Competitive hourly rate, Flexible time off during the week, Sundays off, Eligible for 401k enrollment. You’ll work in a fast-paced and physically engaging environment where you manage a daily delivery schedule to safely and securely load, deliver and install appliances, electronics and furniture in customer’s homes and educate customers on how to operate their new items. You’ll also be responsible for in-store merchandising. Full details and application process here.

09. Transportation Driver – Centerline Drivers, LLC
$19 – $20 an hour. Do you have a Class A CDL? We are now hiring transportation truck drivers for Centerline. You will be working with different freights and routes. There are regional and local opportunities available. Centerline will work with you to find the best assignments for your preference. We are looking for transportation truck drivers who can work in a professional and safe manner at all times. Full details and application process here.

10. Group Fitness Instructor – Healthtrax Fitness & Wellness (North Dartmouth)
Healthtrax Fitness and Wellness is seeking certified men and women who teach or instruct group exercise programs. Naturally outgoing, confident and have the ability to follow choreography while keeping time to music is required. Come share you passion for fitness and contagious enthusiasm that brings group fitness classes to life. Full details and application process here.

Be sure to also check out our Job Portal to find jobs by location on a map: newbedfordguide.com/map-page#pm_jobs_tab. Want to get e-mail notifications for new jobs? Checkout our e-mail subscription service.

After an unusually warm Friday, temperatures will drop slightly but still be in the 50s. Of course, overnight lows will be much colder as is typical of this time of year. All weekend will be cloudy with a chance of some precipitation on Saturday. Sunday the clouds will break and old Sol will poke his head out. The last weekend of November is usually spent shopping, but don’t forget to unwind by partaking in the many goings-on across the South Coast!

As always, click on the title for more or detailed information on the event. Most of the events were pulled from our event calendar where you can find hundreds of local area events each month. The event calendar is FREE, so if you are a local business, and not taking advantage of FREE publicity, shame on you! Are you a local business and want to sponsor this high traffic, weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details. Have an event to add? Check out our tutorial. For more info, you can click on each title. Know of another event this weekend? Post a reply!

Friday, November 27th

Flashdance The Musical at the “Z” (8:00pm)
Relive one of the biggest pop culture events of the 1980s when Flashdance the Musical comes to The Z. With electrifying dance at its core, revisit the inspiring story of Alex Owens, a Pittsburgh steel mill welder by day, bar dancer by night. Alex dreams of becoming a professional performer but when a romance with her steel mill boss threatens to complicate her ambitions, Alex learns the meaning of love and its power to fuel the pursuit of her dream. Featuring a score that includes the biggest hit songs from the movie, including the Academy Award-winning title song “Flashdance – What a Feeling,” “Maniac,” “Gloria,” “Manhunt,” and “I Love Rock & Roll”, this screen-to-stage adaptation captures the sassy, sexy fun of the iconic film!

Saturday, November 28th

Saturdays at The Sawmill (Acushnet) (9:00am-12:00pm)
Come visit the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s restored Acushnet Sawmill on Saturday mornings in November and December. The Hawes Family Learning Center will be open from 9am-12pm. At 10am, join us for one of these hands-on family activities: Nov. 21: Trash Pick Up and Recycled Material Craft. 32 Mill Road, Acushnet.

Marion’s Annual Holiday Shop (10:00am-2:00pm)
Both galleries will feature one of a kind and limited edition gifts. Ceramics, fiber, photographs, wood, toys and more. Holiday shop is open through Dec. 18. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (508) 748-1266. marionartcenter@verizon.net. Marion Art Center, 80 Pleasant Street, Marion.

Native American Culture Fair (Middleborough) (10:00am-4:00pm)
The Metis Wolf Clan of Mass is a non-profit group that is learning and teaching the ways of the Native American Culture of our Ancestors. We are descendants of our Grandparents who were Native American Indian decent. We are hosting this culture fair to educate the community of things such as history, crafts, and displays of replica art of history. we ask you to come and support us and enjoy a day to learn and socialize and also may win a gift from raffle drawings thru out the day. American Legion Post 228, 55 Roosevelt Ave, Somerset.

Letters for the Troops! (Dartmouth) (ALL DAY)
Community wide event! Dr. John Fraone’s office, a pediatric dental office in Dartmouth is collecting letters, cards, and colored pictures to bring some well wishes and holiday cheer to our troops!! All letters can be mailed into our office by Dec 4th 2015! Please please let our troops know how much they mean to us his holiday season! Dr John Fraone, 92 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth.

Sights & Sounds of the Season: A Festival in the Historic Highlands (Fall River) (12:00pm-5:00pm)
Enjoy the fourth annual holiday festival on and around the grounds of Fall River Historical Society. Entertainment and activities will include live statues, magic, juggling, a petting zoo, face painting, music, and more. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in our 19th-century cast iron gazebo. Visit our Holiday Open House and see our dazzling themed Christmas trees. Presented in conjunction with Greater Fall River RE-CREATION. Admission is free. Fall River Historical Society, 451 Rock Street, Fall River.

Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas at the “Z” (3:00pm)
Fancy Nancy makes her grand return to The Z with her unique brand of holiday cheer! What could be fancier than Christmas? Presents with elegant wrapping paper, festive decorations, Christmas cookies with sprinkles – and who could forget the tree? Based on the best-selling children’s book, this delightful family-friendly musical by Broadway’s Vital Theatre Company is filled with catchy, charming songs that tell a heartwarming story of kindness, generosity, and family traditions.

Christmas Love CD Release Concert (Westport) (7:30pm-8:45pm)
The Christmas Love CD is a unique collection of classical holiday music featuring musicians from the southeastern Massachusetts area. The concept and arrangements were created especially for this recording by Matt Richard and the project was co-produced by featured vocalists soprano Kristine Daniels and mezzo soprano Jacqui Tan. St. John The Baptist Church, 945 Main Road, Westport. Phone: (508) 636-2251.

Sarah Borges and the Broken Singles at the Narrows Center (Fall River) (8:00pm)
Sarah, Binky, Rob and Mike reunite for the annual post Thanksgiving show. This one is going to rock. Narrows Center for the Arts, 16 Anawan Street, Fall River.

Sunday, November 22nd

Letters for the Troops! (Dartmouth) (ALL DAY)
Community wide event! Dr. John Fraone’s office, a pediatric dental office in Dartmouth is collecting letters, cards, and colored pictures to bring some well wishes and holiday cheer to our troops!! All letters can be mailed into our office by Dec 4th 2015! Please please let our troops know how much they mean to us his holiday season! Dr John Fraone, 92 Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth.

Breakfast With Santa (9:00am-11:30am)
Catered breakfast, free pictures with Santa. 9-11:30 a.m. Nov. 29. $10 adults, $6 children. Under 3 free. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of New Bedford. (508) 789-3138. New Bedford YMCA, 25 Water St., New Bedford.

Want to sponsor this weekend guide? Contact info@newbedfordguide.com for more details.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 351 Elm Street, Dartmouth, will host a “Breakfast with Santa” on Sunday, December 13, 2015 for the children in our community and their families. Events begin at 9:00AM with Santa’s arrival and a brief Children’s Advent Service. The breakfast and events are free of charge for both children and adults. Space is limited to 200 people. Free tickets are available by sending an email to breakfastwithsanta1213@gmail.com by December 9. Tickets are also available in the church office on Sunday mornings.

Participants may bring a non-perishable food item to benefit the Food Pantry of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church in New Bedford. A free will offering to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital will be taken. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone in the community is welcome to attend.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Dartmouth is offering a community-wide “Blue Christmas” service for those for those who are experiencing grief, loss, loneliness or pain and may not experience the joy of the holiday season. This service of hope and healing is a safe refuge to acknowledge the pain of this difficult time of year and to receive hope and inner-peace.

All are welcome to attend, particularly those who have lost a loved one; those who have gone through a divorce or broken relationship; those who are unemployed or are experiencing financial hardship; those who have health issues or have a loved one who is terminally ill; those who are depressed or sad or for whom the holidays trigger painful memories.

The “Blue Christmas” service will be held at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 351 Elm Street, Dartmouth on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 7:00PM.