Operation Clean Sweep presents Earth Day Cleanup – Acushnet Ave Neighborhoods!

WHEN: April 13th from 9am – 12pm
WHERE: ‘Love The Ave’ HQ behind Cotali Mar Restaurant at 1178 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford.

• Free t-shirts to all volunteers
• Gloves and tools provided
• Wear closed-toe shoes
• Walkins Welcome
• Free pizza from Dominos!
• Coffee & Donuts provided by BASK

You can sign-up/register by going here.

Massachusetts State Police photo.

Massachusetts State Police photo.

“When Bristol County Sheriff Paul Heroux assumed Office in January 2023, he had a vision to change the reentry unit. He recognized the potential for improvement and began to enhance the support and services provided to incarcerated individuals upon release.

The restructuring resulted in the creation of an entirely new department with a new Chief of Inmate Services. This department led by Jodi Hockert-Lotz, the newly appointed Chief of Services, was established to oversee medical care, food services, programming, education, post-release services, and reentry initiatives. Dedicated positions were also created exclusively for post-release services.

BCSO photo. Sheriff Heroux and Chief of Inmate Services Jodi Hockert-Lotz.

“Healthcare is everything people commonly think of but also includes mental health and drug treatment. Lastly, getting a job requires an education or skills training.”

The Sheriff created coordinator roles focused on specific aspects of post release including housing, healthcare, employment, and other support services. Each coordinator leads a team of post-release workers who are experts in their respective fields, providing tailored support to incarcerated individuals transitioning back into society.

“The Sheriff’s vision has inspired the staff to be creative with finding solutions to improve upon what we have in place and to seek new opportunities that will contribute to a rehabilitative environment,” said Hockert-Lotz.

An incarcerated individual at the BCSO participates in the welding vocational program. This individual is working on a new suicide resistant beds that will be used in the housing units. BCSO photo.

Beyond creating more designated staffing in this area, the Bristol County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) also expanded programming and education opportunities for incarcerated individuals. The BCSO launched a welding program for incarcerated individuals where participants learn the skills necessary to obtain certifications. Some participants where even able to assist in the creation of new suicide resistant bunk beds.

Another new program is a partnership with MassMEP, a course dedicated to instructing individuals on various manufacturing jobs and placing them with employers prior to their release. Individuals participating in the CDL program now have access to hands-on learning opportunities in the community, expanding upon what was previously just a simulation experience.

“I am honored to lead this unit and be part of this transformation,” said Hockert-Lotz. “These changes will not only benefit incarcerated individuals by providing a platform for personal growth and skill acquisition but also contribute to a safer environment for both staff and those incarcerated.”

With an entire unit dedicated to reentry services, incarcerated individuals now have ample opportunities for personal growth, skill acquisition, and preparation for life back in the community.”-Massachusetts Sheriffs’ Association.

“The Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District is proud to support Food Waste Prevention Week 2024, joining more than 600 partners across the country. Food Waste Prevention Week, April 1-7, 2024, is a week-long online campaign to raise awareness and inspire everyone to reduce food waste at home, at work and in our communities.

As part of this week, New Bedford and Dartmouth residents can enter to win a reusable sandwich and snack bag by Stasher. Four New Bedford residents and four Dartmouth residents will be randomly selected. To enter, complete this form https://forms.gle/nZwS3tEtjVqmE2hbA by April 7, 2024, at midnight.

Entrants must provide their name, city/town, email, and phone number so that we may contact the winners. Must be at least 18 years old to participate. When prizes are picked up, each winner will need to show proof of residency. Employees of the City of New Bedford Department of Facilities and Fleet Management, Town of Dartmouth Department of Public Works, and the Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District are NOT eligible to enter. The giveaway items are paid for by the Refuse District.

Also, find tips for preventing food waste on the Refuse District’s social media during Food Waste Prevention Week. Visit New Bedford Recycling or Dartmouth Recycling on Facebook, follow New Bedford Recycling on Instagram and Nextdoor or @NBRecycling on Twitter.

Up to thirty-five percent of all food produced goes uneaten. Ending food loss and waste requires purposeful action.

Why does reducing food waste matter?

• Saves money – The average family of four spends $1,500 per year on food that does not get eaten.
• Saves space in our local landfill – It’s estimated that food waste makes up 20% of the trash disposed of at the Crapo Hill landfill.
• Conserves resources – Land, water, energy, and human resources are used to grow, package and transport food.
• Improves food security – Safe and nutritious food that is currently thrown away could help feed hungry people. 

Tips for reducing food waste:

• Avoid buying too much food – take inventory, list what you need, stick to the list.
• Learn optimal ways to store foods, like keeping potatoes out of light and away from onions.
• Eat perishable foods like strawberries as soon as possible.
• Follow USDA guidelines for freezing and thawing foods.
• Follow USDA guidelines for refrigerating foods and safely enjoy leftovers!

“The Refuse District is committed to reducing food waste because it makes up approximately 20% of what is disposed in the Crapo Hill landfill and we know there are better options available,” said Anthony Novelli, Executive Director. “We encourage backyard composting by selling discounted compost bins, that are subsidized by the City of New Bedford and the Town of Dartmouth.

Composting helps keep eggshells, coffee grounds, and fruit and vegetable scraps out of the landfill. We share tips on social media and at presentations about how to reduce food waste. We encourage the donation of edible food to people, and the collection of food scraps for composting or anerobic digestion. We seek out new programs and grants to keep food out of the trash. Every little bit helps and everyone’s daily choices to prevent food waste can make a significant long-term impact.” 

The Refuse District joins various agencies and stakeholders throughout the country in a collaborative effort and shared commitment to reduce food loss and waste.

For more information on Food Waste Prevention Week please visit foodwastepreventionweek.com.

For questions about the giveaway, contact the Refuse District by phone at (508) 979-1493 or by email at Marissa@gnbrrmdistrict.org.”-Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District.
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“We are excited to be a partner for Food Waste Prevention Week, April 1 -7!🥳 Look for our posts next week with tips on how to waste less food. Food waste makes up around 20%🤯 of the trash disposed at the Crapo Hill landfill.

👉We will also be giving away a reusable sandwich and snack bag by Stasher to 4 New Bedford residents and 4 Dartmouth residents to help prolong the life of their food and make less trash. Look for more information on Monday (4/1).”-New Bedford Recycling.

Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District photo.

“On Saturday, March 16, 2024, the 76th ROC academy recruits participated in a polar plunge to benefit Massachusetts Special Olympics.

Pictured is our very own Student Officer Mattos. Great work!

If you want to learn more about donating to the Massachusetts Special Olympics go here: https://www.specialolympicsma.org/ways-to-give/donate.”-Rochester Police Department.

Rochester Police Department photo.

“Massachusetts Environmental Police were contacted by Boston Animal Control Officers and asking for Massachusetts Environmental Police assistance with a domestic cat that was trapped on a seawall in the Little Mystic River.

Massachusetts Environmental Police officer responded by boat in somewhat challenging conditions and the feline was safely gathered after several attempts and a fall into the water.

“Charles” was safely transported to shore and is with Boston AC. Charles was estimated to have been stranded for over 24 hours. Thanks to Massachusetts Environmental Police and Boston ACO’s.”-Massachusetts Environmental Police.

Massachusetts Environmental Police photo.

“On Saturday, a resident of Adams was driving through town when they captured this image of one of our members from SP Cheshire assisting an elderly gentleman cross a busy street.

The resident who shared the image on social media posted, “There was a line of traffic both ways and the elderly gentleman looked nervous to cross…”

She went on to say our Trooper noticed, “that it was taking him a long time just to move an inch or two”. Without hesitation, our member, “got out of his vehicle and stayed/walked with this man probably for a good 3 minutes while he crossed the street and kept reassuring him it was okay.”

Ending her post she said, “I think everybody was so touched by this moment that for once Nobody cared about being late or where they were headed. Thank you sir…for being so kind in a busy crazy world.”-State Police Association of Massachusetts.

“NEW BEDFORD – The City of New Bedford’s Community Preservation Committee has voted to recommend 21 projects to the New Bedford City Council for a total of $2.2 million in FY24 funding through the Community Preservation Act.

The recommended CPA funding supports projects in areas including community housing, recreation and open space, and historic resources.

The Committee received applications for 22 projects during the FY24 CPA application cycle, seeking almost $3 million. In deciding how to allocate the $2.2 million in available CPA funds, the Committee weighed priorities in the FY24 Community Preservation Plan, whether the proposals could achieve full or partial funding through CPA support, and which proposals best met CPA criteria.

The Committee recently submitted the FY24 CPA Funding Recommendations to the City Council, which has the final authority to award CPA funds and approve projects as recommended, approve projects at reduced funding levels, or reject projects. Should the City Council vote to reject or reduce funding for a recommended project, the Committee will have an opportunity to respond and/or adjust the project’s scope or terms prior to a final decision by the City Council.

Below are the projects recommended for FY24 CPA Funding:

Recreation/Open Space

• Boys & Girls Club Playground Expansion – $35,000
• City Wide Signage for Parks – $275,000
• Riverside Park Heat Island Relief Project – $50,800
• Roberto Clemente Park Improvements – $185,000
• YMCA Renovation – $40,000

Historic Resources

• Cape Verdean Ultramarine Band and Club – $25,000
• City Clerk Record Restoration Phase III – $50,000
• Digitization of Maritime Records Phase III – $13,200
• First Baptist/Steeple Playhouse Exterior – $60,000
• Howland Family Portrait Conservation – $65,000
• JAMI Mansard, Dormers, Cornice Restoration – $95,000
• Johnson House Electrical System – $85,000
• NB Fishing Heritage Center Archives Phase II – $30,000
• NB Superior Court Façade Restoration – $285,000
• Rotch-Jones-Duff House Securing History – $23,500
• Strand Theater Restoration – $225,000
• Underground Railroad Café and Gallery – $25,000
• William H. Carney Lodge #200 – $25,000

Community Housing

• Capitol Theater Interior Restoration – $250,000
• Talbot Apartments – $255,000
• YWCA Residential Services – $102,500

For more information on the CPA program and the FY24 projects, visit www.newbedford-ma.gov/planning/community-preservation.

________________________________________________________

About the Community Preservation Act
New Bedford voters adopted the CPA through a ballot question in November 2014. The statewide enabling legislation allows communities to create dedicated funding for projects that support open space, outdoor recreational facilities, historic preservation, and affordable housing activities in the City.

Oversight of this process rests with the Community Preservation Committee, the body established by the City to oversee the CPA program in New Bedford.

Since FY18, the Committee has recommended, and the City Council has approved, 101 grants totaling more than $10.3 million in CPA funding for projects that have preserved historic resources and open space, created community housing opportunities, and improved and created recreational facilities throughout the City. In addition, these grants have enabled organizations to leverage an additional $12.4 million in funding from private foundations, state and federal governments, and other sources.” -City of New Bedford.

“We did it, New Bedford! Local 841 raised the most funds for MDA’s Fill the Boot in ALL of Massachusetts!

A huge thank you to our MDA fundraising committee members and Local 841 members for your tireless dedication to this past year’s Fill the Boot fundraiser! Together, we’ve made a significant impact on the lives of families affected by muscle dystrophy.

Also, we couldn’t have done it without the generosity of the amazing Greater New Bedford community. Together, with your support, we were able to raise an incredible $31,500.00.”-IAFF Local 841 New Bedford Firefighters.

IAFF Local 841 New Bedford Firefighters photo.

IAFF Local 841 New Bedford Firefighters photo.

IAFF Local 841 New Bedford Firefighters photo.

IAFF Local 841 New Bedford Firefighters photo.

“The Westborough Police Department in conjunction with the Massachusetts State Police Detective Unit for Worcester County are attempting to locate Olivia Colby, 27. Ms. Colby’s phone was last pinged March 14, 2024 within a 25 meter radius of her home in Westborough.

Ms. Colby is white, 5’07” tall and 140 pounds, with brown eyes, and long brown hair with red tint. She has an eyebrow piercing above her right eye and may be wearing a green Army jacket. There are no known vehicles associated with her. There are concerns involving her current well-being.

Anyone with information regarding Olivia Colby or her whereabouts, please contact Westborough Police at (508) 366-3060 or simply call 911.”-Massachusetts State Police.

Massachusetts State Police photo.

Massachusetts State Police photo.

Massachusetts State Police photo.