Well, shiver me timbers. We will reach almost 70 degrees this weekend. While last weekend was a very wet one, this weekend will be…well, a partially wet one. Don’t fret though – these will be in the form of an occasional passing shower. Just pretend that you are in Florida during the rainy season. Speaking of hot, humid places: did you know that the record high in New Bedford for this weekend was 96 degrees in 2001? Imagine that! The record low was 31 degrees in 1896!

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, May 2nd

Rummage & Bake Sale (Dartmouth) (5:00-7:00pm)
Good used clothing, shoes, toys, household items, furniture, linens, books, and baked goods. Congregational Church 17 Middle Street South Dartmouth.

Starry Nights 2014 (Marion) (6:30-9:30 pm)
Please join us for a very special evening to support the efforts of the New Bedford Star Kids Scholarship Program. The Starry Night 2014 Reception will be held at the Kittansett Club in Marion MA on Friday, May 2, 2014. There will be a live auction, and raffle drawings throughout the fun filled evening. Dinner/cocktail attire. For more information or to RSVP, email nbstarkids.debra@charter.net or call 774-264-9065.

Painting with a Splash: “Twilight” & “Fitz’s Wine Pour” (7:00pm)
Welcome to Painting with a Splash Where you are the artist! Painting with a Splash is the newest addition to Historic Whaling City Downtown New Bedford. Bringing you an experience of art as entertainment. Add a little wine (BYOB) that will surely tap into your creative side. With step by step instruction and a little music, you and your friends will create the evenings featured painting with a splash of your own uniqueness. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Just a desire to have fun.

“Fairhaven at the Heart of the Whaling Era” & “The Curious Case of Charles W. Morgan” (Fairhaven) (7:00-8:00 pm)
Special event brought to you by the Fairhaven Historical Society and presented by James Russell, President and CEO of the New Bedford Whaling Museum, 7 p.m. May 2. Light refreshments, donations accepted. Fairhaven Town Hall.

Saturday, May 3rd

Annual Indoor Yard Sale (Fall River) (8:30am-12:30pm)
Annual Indoor Yard Sale Loads of great stuff! Bring family and friends, browse, enjoy, visit and have a snack or light lunch. Snack bar will be open! Directly across from the YMCA on corner of North Main and Pine Streets. Phone: 508-672-5381. 228 North Main Street, Fall River.

Ashley Ford’s Drive 4 Ur School at Fairhaven High School (9:00am-4:00pm)
The After Prom Committee at Fairhaven High School and Ashley Ford are hosting an upcoming fundraiser. On May 3, Ashley Ford will be sponsoring a Drive 4UR School event at FHS from 9:00am-4:00pm. They will bring 6 new Fords to the school that will be available for test drives. Ford will donate $20.00 for every person who comes to drive a car that day. It’s an opportunity to raise up to $6,000!

The After Prom event is completely free to students and provides a safe, drug and alcohol free celebration full of activity from 12:00am to 5:00am. It costs roughly $10,000 to put on the event, which is generated through fundraisers and community donations. Last year over 200 students attended.

Oxford Book Haven and Cafe Book Sale (Fairhaven) (9:00am-1:00pm)
Used books sold at very reasonable prices, most are 50 cents. Scrabble game at 10:00 a.m. Also puzzle making. Coffee and desserts available. Church of the Good Shepherd 357 Main St. Fairhaven, Mass. 02719.

The Elusive Spotted Turtle at Allens Pond (9:00-11:00 am)
The elusive and sometimes comically-clumsy spotted turtle, though relatively common, is a species not commonly seen by many. These clever animals reside in and around vernal pools, wet meadows, brooks and streams and in scrub swamps and can be found in areas of our wildlife sanctuary.

Join turtle experts Sue Wieber Nourse and Don Lewis and Allens Pond staff as we learn more about the species and embark on a hike to discover spotted turtles at Allens Pond. We will learn about their behavior and what data scientists collect and manage to better understand this fascinating creature.

Blessed Trinity Parish Polish Food Sale (Fall River) (9:00-3:00pm)
Blessed Trinity Parish will be holding a Polish Food Sale (available for take-out only) at 1340 Plymouth Avenue, Fall River. Food selections include the following: cheese and potato pierogi, cabbage pierogi, golumki (cabbage rolls), barszcz with potatoes and babka bread. Ample parking available in rear or church. Facility is handicapped accessible. If more information is needed contact the rectory at 508-672-4854. Phone: 508-672-4854.

4th Annual Cinco de Mayo Block Party (Providence) (12:00-6:00pm)
Downcity Providence. Free and open to the public. Latin music, tacos, caterers and more. Taking place at Westminster St. Providence. Westminster St.

Frog Watch at the Zoo (1:00pm-3:00pm)
Local frogs need your help! Amphibian populations are declining worldwide so it’s important to learn as much as we can about these animals. Here’s how you can help! Join the Buttonwood Park Zoo’s FrogWatch Chapter! Learn to identify local frog and toad calls at two training sessions on Saturdays, May 3 & 10. Then explore local wetlands to help contribute critical data to the long-term scientific study. Ready to become a citizen scientist? Call to register 508-991-6178 x 31. (Ages 7+)

“The Little Mermaid” (Fall River) (1:00)
Bristol Community College presents “The Little Mermaid,” Tickets $12 general public, $10 faculty and staff, $6 students and seniors. (508) 678-2811, ext. 2442. 777 Elsbree St.

The LCpl Matthew R. Rodriguez Memorial Foundation (7:00pm-12:00 am)
The LCpl Matthew R. Rodriguez Memorial Foundation Kickoff fundraiser. Food, raffles and entertainment provided by Jack Trade and Gaad Damn and DJ Eddie Freitas. Tickets $25 advance $30 at the door. For information or tickets call (508) 889-8141. VFW Poirier Post, 281 Appleton St.

Sunday, May 4th

Discover Colonial Newport walking tour (Newport) (10:30am)
Space is limited, call for reservations. Phone: 401-841-8770. Email: newporthistorytours@gmail.com. Brick Market Museum and Shop 127 Thames Street Newport, R.I. 02840.

Dartmouth Grange Cooking Class: Mother’s Day Cake Class (1:00-4:00 pm)
Each student must be accompanied by an adult on a one child – one adult ratio. Registration/reservations: Advanced Reservations Required. Phone: 508 636-1900. Email: beth@dartmouthgrange.org. Artist/event website: http://www.bookeo.com/dartmouthgrange. Dartmouth Grange Kitchen 1133 Fisher Road Dartmouth, Mass. 02747.

Ferreira-Mendes Portuguese American Archives (2:00-3:00pm)
The Ferreira-Mendes Portuguese American Archives and the Center for Jewish Culture at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth will hold a public screening and discussion of the award-winning film “Disobedience: the Sousa Mendes Story.” For information call (508) 999-8684 or email spacheco@umassd.edu. Grand Reading Room of the Claire T. Carney Library (Parking Lot 13), 285 Old Westport Road.

uPaint! Events – Starry Night (5 p.m.)
uPaint! Events is an entertaining and artistic experience in a social environment. Join the group at Joe’s Cafe & Lounge in Westport, MA for a fantastic night of fun, painting, drinks, and food. Tickets include admission to uPaint Events painting class, instruction for 2 – 2.5 hours, free digital photography, and all supplies to create your painting! Details and tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/636064.

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

Enjoy the cosmic and urban vibes of a thriving city filled with cultural, environmental, and historic beauty! More than just a horoscope column, each Sun sign includes special attention to New Bedford living.

Aries: Mars, the planet of direct action and cosmic guide of Rams, is visiting the harmonizing sign of Libra this month, which will put focus on your personal relationships. If things heat up, remember not to force your ideas or ego drives onto others. ~If you’re looking for something to do that’s a little wild yet totally local, try indoor or outdoor sky diving in New Bedford! *Romantic passions must be balanced by honesty, acceptance, and trust.

Taurus: Happy Birthday Rams! Enjoy the Sun’s illumination! This is a time of high motivation and big plans! Learn new things about yourself, focus on personal goals, and have as much fun as you want! ~If you want awesome cake to go with your Birthday celebrations, tell friends and family to go with a local favorite: Cakes by Lucy. *Every moment we experience is like a mirror, reflecting both past and future moments in its cosmic space.

Gemini: Mercury, the planet of communication and guide of Twins, is visiting the earthy sign of Taurus this month. As your material interests increase, be mindful of what you think you “possess”—and what you truly value. ~Consider attending one of the classes offered at the Serlingpa Meditation Center in New Bedford. *Communication has a way of revealing complex colors of being: as one color shares the hue of another, all become inspired.

Cancer: The Moon and planetary guide of the Crab sign visits you May 3-5. Take care to align your intentions with your actions, and be prepared for a shift in focus toward duties and responsibilities. ~Also consider enjoying the beauty of the Full Moon on May 14 with a harbor-front dining experience at the Waterfront Grille. *Possibilities are endless and always within reach: possibility turns into reality when we grasp it firmly without squeezing too tightly.

Leo: The Sun and guiding planet of Leo will make difficult aspect with Saturn, the planet of restriction. This energy demands hard work, diligence, and patience. If difficulties arise, keep cool and push through. ~Local Lion Sign History: Norman Wexler, the screenwriter of Saturday Night Fever, was born in New Bedford on August 6, 1926. *The feeling of want begins in the perspective of individual ego: the higher self emerges when we create the perspective anew.

Virgo: Mercury, the planet of communication and cosmic guide of Virgins, makes difficult aspect with Neptune—the planet of spirituality and illusions. This energy has a way of confusing your thinking and creating strange misconceptions. ~Be very careful how you present yourself to others, and consider taking a trip to the New Bedford Art Museum to divert your attention to higher ideals. *To accept fulfillment, the openings of self must contain yet never close.

Libra: Venus is the cosmic guide of your sign. As she visits the bold sign of Aries this month, you will likely express yourself more creatively and pay more attention to your appearance. In turn, others will take better notice of your attractive, dynamic traits! ~Local Scale Sign History: Benjamin Russell, the famous watercolor painter of whaling ships, was born in New Bedford on October 16, 1804. *Creating life purpose involves belief in self; achieving life purpose involves security of those beliefs.

Scorpio: Saturn, the planet of restriction, has been visiting Scorpions since October 2012, challenging you to tighten the inner workings of your mind. Take time to release from the negatives of your past this month, and be honest with others. ~There are over ten food pantries in New Bedford: volunteering helps gain better perspective on life! *What others think about you that they do not share is of no value: insecurity creeps, while expression tangos.

Sagittarius: Jupiter, the planet of growth and cosmic guide of Archers, enjoys positive aspect with the little healing planet of Chiron this month, making it easier for you to initiate important life changes. This is a time of psychological understanding and self-expansion! ~Consider traveling, studying something new, and exploring your metaphysical vibes at the Crystal Expectations shop in New Bedford. *Future plans are only as effective as your ability to follow through in the NOW.

Capricorn: Pluto, the planet of powerful, deep, long-term change, has been visiting the Goat sign for many months. Your professional and public interests represent the keys to making the most out of this demanding yet very important transit. ~Consider expanding your horizons at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford, which has a number of great events to choose from this May. *How to balance freedom and responsibility: temperance.

Aquarius: Uranus, the planet of sudden change and cosmic guide of Aquarius, will conjunct Venus this month. Unexpected romantic encounters are likely, but don’t let your desire for these experiences strain your current relationships—or drain your resources. ~Local Water Pitcher Sign History: Robert Crossman Ingraham, New Bedford’s first librarian, was born on February 11, 1827. *The inner fire within holds many flames, each one dancing as it greets the element of air.

Pisces: The Sun will make positive aspect with Neptune, the mystical planet and cosmic guide of the Fish sign. This energy has a way of enhancing your inner drives and motivations: think and act boldly, and let your imagination surrender to new experiences. ~Connect with the emotional currents of water and enjoy the warm sunshine by visiting the beautiful New Bedford coastlines as often as possible! *Acceptance is an accomplishment in itself.

POLICY UPDATE: New Bedford Guide gets dozens of requests each month to promote fundraisers on some funding website. We get messages asking us to share links from sites like gofundme.com for various reasons.

While we’d love to promote every charity fundraiser, we really don’t have time to verify these requests. If we are going to ask our readers and Facebook fans to go to a website and donate money, we must make sure the funding site is legit and that the money actually goes to the cause. The main issue is ANYONE can set up a funding project on a dozen different websites and we have no way of verifying the money actually goes to the cause. These websites take a percentage of the funds and don’t vet the projects. The world is full of scammers and we don’t feel comfortable sending people to donate to causes that are unverified. Our policy is to not share funding websites UNLESS it is easy for us to verify the cause.

Also, if we post one fundraiser we are expected to post all fundraisers and NBG would be come nothing but fundraising posts. We can’t say yes to one and no to the other.

We will continue to share fundraising events held at local establishments. These are easier to verify as people actually show up to the event and can make their own judgement before donating money. If you have any questions please e-mail info@newbedfordguide.com.

New Bedford is known for a lot of things. It’s known as the Whaling City and at one time it was known as the City of Light. Now it could easily be called the City of Art. When it comes to the percentage of population of artists Massachusetts is well above the national average and New Bedford is ranked even higher. In a recent article by the Atlantic Cities publication, New Bedford was named the 7th most artistic city in the nation. Alma DelMar has declared that New Bedford has “the most artists per capita of any place in America”. The sheer number of galleries, art studios, photography shops, design studios, and various other art businesses would certainly suggest it.

When it comes to the percentage of population that considers themselves an artist, Massachusetts is well above the national average and New Bedford even higher. In fact, a recent article in the Atlantic Cities publication named New Bedford the 7th most artistic city in the nation and Alma DelMar has declared that New Bedford “…has the most artists per capita of any place in America.” The sheer number of galleries, art studios, photography shops, design studios, graphic art businesses, etc. would certainly suggest it.

So, it would make sense that there are some innovative, creative and progressive ideas circulating in the community. One of those brilliant concepts is artist-led painting classes that bring the art to the people in a casual environment (read friends, fare, and fun.) If you’re like me and struggle drawing stick figures or handwriting that is legible, you have a healthy respect for art and artists, and may even feel that any chance of something resembling art couldn’t possibly be produced.

Well, we’d be wrong!

uPaint! Events is a mobile business that teaches “social” painting classes anywhere. They’ll come to your job, home, office, function hall, local restaurant or anywhere else. In fact, they feature many of their classes at local spots like Joe’s Cafe & Lounge.

But you don’t need a business establishment to enjoy what uPaint offers. Have a birthday or anniversary and want to do something a little out of the ordinary? Want to invite the girls over, order takeout, and bust open some wine? Having a slumber party for the kids? No special reason needed! You get your very own supplies and empty canvas and a talented and very capable artist willing to demonstrate, direct and inspire you to replicate the same piece of work that he or she is creating. All in an unintimidating environment. Each session is photographed digitally, so you can show your friends and keep a memento of the session!

Owner, instructor and local Miranda Pellegrino is an illustrator, photographer, artist, and graphic designer who has degrees in Graphic Design and Fine Art and is pursuing her third as an Illustration major at UMass Dartmouth. She was previously teaching classes in Rhode Island before relocating to New Bedford. She is passionate about bringing art and its social, cultural, and mental benefits to the people. She said that in spite of her years of experience she takes great joy, and is continually impressed but what people at the uPaint events create.

Miranda sums up one of the biggest misconceptions about social painting in her own words: “Usually the biggest misconception and/or fear that customers have is that it’s just too difficult to paint something ‘good’. They see the paintings and have anxiety about their abilities and skills or lack thereof. Customers start to relax as they learn step-by-step how to paint, how to mix colors, how to blend, and so on. I let them have enough independence that they don’t feel trapped in a rigorous lesson and give individual attention to all. It’s very important that the customers paint their own works as I don’t draw or paint anything for them. Their sense of accomplishment and happiness drives me. Everyone has an innate sense of design and is a capable of being an artist. I don’t believe that you’re either talented or not.”

What is a class like? A typical class is 2.5 hours long followed by a 30 minutes worth of digital photo taking. After donning your apron and parking your butt, an instructor will introduce themselves, welcome you, before a quick explanation about utilizing the brushes and mixing colors.

Then you dig in. The instructor then creates the painting one step at a time, with clear, concise instructions. Before the next step is started, the instructor will field questions and check everyone’s work. Half way through, there is a 15 minute recess before finishing the second half. Then it’s photo time for bragging, boasting, or laughing at your creations!

There are a ton of benefits to tapping into one’s creative side, and when you add fun, social environment, and perhaps a little Lambrusco (or Spätlese), you get an experience that you will fondly remember…and certainly want to repeat. Having it at your home means that you get to avoid heading to the big city and dealing with its traffic and crowds. It’s you, your friends and family only.

Who knows, you may even turn out to pick up a new hobby, uncover a talent you had no idea about, or perhaps….just perhaps, you’ll be one of the new members of the growing art community that New Bedford is known for.

Want more information? Miranda’s website has testimonials, an easy to use calendar, a photo gallery of sessions, and some images of some of the paintings you will create. You can keep updated on promotions, find out about fundraisers, purchase gift certificates, or even book a private event.

The next classes: 

Sunday, May 4th: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/636064

Sunday, May 11th: http://sunflowers.bpt.me/

uPaint! Events

Phone: (508) 685-1329
E-mail:contact@upaintevents.com
Mon – Fri: 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sat – Sun: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Website: upaintevents.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/upaintevents
Yelp: yelp.com/biz/upaint-events-new-bedford

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By Jordis Brown

“You can be anything you want to be!” “There is no person better than anyone else!” “We are all equals!”

The truth is if you heard any of this growing up someone did you a great disservice. They are all lies.

At some point we thought we’d make the next generation great by filling their little heads with pretty words: “If you can dream it, you can achieve it!” We made it seem like anything was possible, if you wanted it bad enough. Then that child grows up to find being a rock-star astronaut is out of their reach, no matter how much they wanted it. Then depression kicks in.

The drive to find any success dwindles down to a hopeless routine to get by. How is it that such encouragement can be a bad thing? We all want the best for our children and the next generation, so shouldn’t we be reinforcing it? Of course! But telling someone that “it’s in the bag,” is a whole lot different then preparing them to be strong enough to accept failure. Our differences define us and what one person is able to accomplish, another may not be able to.

That is reality. Harsh, but nevertheless.

It’s the end of the season and out comes a cart full of trophies. Everyone is a winner! It’s a great thing to get a trophy and be told you are a winner. But that person who worked really hard and just did better is being told that that other one who slept half the time and didn’t pay attention at all is just as good.

So how is that motivating them? How is that preparing the slacker for the day someone says “You are not good enough”? How is that reinforcing the hard work by the achiever?

It isn’t.

The truth is there is always someone better than someone else. Sounds horrible right? Shouldn’t we raise children to believe that “No-one” is better than anyone else? I mean, that sounds darn right saintly to say that! But it is a lie.

I am better than a person who kills another person. A pedophile. A rapist. I am better than a parent who neglects or abuses their child. Now you’re thinking “of course,” but wait? I thought that no one is better than anyone else? Let’s expand…

My child is a better artist than yours, but your child is better at math. I am more charitable than you because I write a check for a charity as opposed to just re-posting about it on Facebook. Did that sting? You do re-post more than me though. There are better parents than others, better athletes and just better people!

Our goal is to achieve personal greatness and what we can accomplish can only be found through what we’ve failed at. Inflating a child’s head to believe that no matter what, they can have their dream. It’s really nice and sweet, but one should also make it clear that sometimes things don’t work out and honestly you are just not cut out for it. Crashing and burning when reality isn’t as sweet can have a hard consequence to their emotional state.

Maybe we can end the widespread depression of tomorrow, if we started preparing our children a little better for reality, today.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum will welcome author and cultural historian, Philip Hoare, on Wednesday, May 14, for a presentation on his latest book, The Sea Inside. The event will include a pre-lecture reception with a book signing and meet-and-greet with the author following the presentation.

Hoare is the author of six works of non-fiction. His latest book, The Sea Inside, will be published in the U.S. by Melville House this spring.

The Sea Inside
A love letter to the sea: part memoir, part travelogue, and part natural history; The Sea Inside is Hoare’s most personal book yet. He sets out on a year-long adventure to rediscover the sea, its islands, birds and beasts. The story begins at Hoare’s home near the U.K.’s Solent Strait and journeys on, roughly in the pattern of whales’ migration, to London, the Isle of Wight, the Azores, Sri Lanka, Tasmania, and New Zealand, in search of encounters with animals and people.

Rich with literary references and historical background, Hoare navigates between human and natural history, meeting scientists and tattooed warriors, and animals from whales to bizarre creatures that may or may not be extinct. Hoare describes encounters with our favorite sea mammals: swimming alone with hundreds of dolphins, he feels sonar pulse tick through his body; living on a boat, he learns to recognize individual voices in a whale pod and describes the tender call of mother to child. Like the works of W.G. Sebald and J.A. Baker, Hoare’s The Sea Inside takes the reader on an astounding journey of discovery.

Join Hoare on Wednesday, May 14, at 7 p.m. for a presentation of his new book. A pre-lecture reception will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a book signing and meet-and-greet taking place after the presentation. Admission is free for Museum Members and $10 for Non-Members. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (508) 997-0046 ext. 100 or visit http://www.whalingmuseum.org/programs/public-talk-with-philip-hoare.

About Philip Hoare
Philip Hoare (born 1958, Southampton) is the author of six works of non-fiction: Serious Pleasures: The Life of Stephen Tennant (1990) and Noel Coward: A Biography (1995), Wilde’s Last Stand: Decadence, Conspiracy, and the First World War (1997), Spike Island: The Memory of a Military Hospital (2000), and England’s Lost Eden: Adventures in a Victorian Utopia (2005). Leviathan or, The Whale (2008), won the 2009 BBC Samuel Johnson Prize for non-fiction.

An experienced broadcaster, Hoare wrote and presented the BBC Arena film “The Hunt for Moby-Dick,” and directed three films for BBC’s Whale Night. He is Visiting Fellow at Southampton University, and Leverhulme Artist-in-residence at The Marine Institute, Plymouth University, which awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2011. He is also co-curator, with Angela Cockayne, of the Moby-Dick Big Read, www.mobydickbigread.com.

It is no secret that New Bedford High School (NBHS) is not the best place in the world, nor the safest of environments – this is something that has been known for decades. The student body has its fair share of problems, the school infrastructure itself has seen better days, and the administration and school system has been a little bit under par.

However, recent reports have begun to surface that are completely demolishing any ounce of the reputation that NBHS has worked diligently to build and uphold. This task is hard to accomplish in the times of distress and states of panic that the school is experiencing now, where it seems as though everyone has forgotten about the true goal of secondary education. Faculty, administration, and community members are fighting their own personal battles, which is being urged on by media attention (all of which has been negative, I might add).

As a proud alumni, I felt as though it was my responsibility to try to hold some of its reputation together by portraying to you the unique experience that I think the school offers. To me, NBHS is the only school in the area that affords students the total package in an education, and here are 5 reasons why:

1. New Bedford High School offers an incredibly wide range of classes. There are classes in everything imaginable, ranging from cooking to auto-shop to early childhood education to forensics. There are SAT prep classes as well as classes to prepare you for writing in college/college admissions essays. Most importantly, the Advanced Placement program offers the widest range of classes in the area, offering students to study at a higher level and gain college credits in over 15 AP class offerings.
2. The staff and faculty is composed of amazing teachers. Throughout my time at the school, I had a multitude of teachers who I saw change the lives of kids who may have not had the backing that they needed at home. Also, teachers have academic and teaching records that are quite impressive, especially those who teach AP classes- many even teach at local universities in adjunct with their teaching job at the high school.
3. The arts program is one of the finest around. NBHS boasts an impressively talented pool of students, ranging from vocalists to musicians to actors to artists. The programs in the arts allow students to explore their talents and interests through artistic expression.
4. NBHS has one of the most successful athletic programs in the state. Athletics offer chances for students to establish bonds, learn teamwork, stay healthy, and most importantly, gives them motivation to stay out of trouble and keep their grades up. There are more sports team to choose from than any other school around, allowing for everyone to find something that’s right for them.
5. Most importantly, to me, diversity plays a huge role in the academic life at the school. Due to its urban setting, in a city that personifies the idea of the “melting pot,” the diversity of ethnicities, races, sexual orientations, religions, etc., is remarkable. In post-secondary education and the workforce, the ability to deal with diversity is an integral part of how successful you will be, as it is present in educational and work situations each and every day.

I know you’re probably thinking that every school offers this, but the truth is they don’t. Not a single school in the area offers every one of these things or even in the same capacity. Being at a reputable university, I quickly realized that each one of the above points has taught me a valuable skill that would be hard to be successful in college without.

The bottom line is that a majority of New Bedford High School students and faculty are doing all of the right things. There are a select few that, due to whatever reason it may be (home issues, poverty, etc.), are the constant problems within the school. However, unlike other schools in the community, NBHS cannot just get rid of them- instead, they are forced to suspend them for a few days and anxiously await their return to see what they do next. On the other hand, however, there are a multitude of students who are getting into their dream colleges, gaining admission to some of the nation’s top universities. Some of these include Harvard, Brown, Columbia, Yale, Tufts, etc. In fact, students in each of the years that I was in the school went to Ivy League schools and are doing incredibly well. This is a testament to the talented and gifted student body at the school and how well the school can prepare you for the post-secondary world.

Here’s my take: a New Bedford High School education is what you make of it. If you sit there and give in to some of the insanity that is going on around you, you are guaranteed to end up becoming part of the insanity yourself. However, if you take any bit of advantage of all of the opportunities surrounding you- incredible classes, teachers, fine arts, athletics, and diversity- you will be successful and you will find yourself gaining an educational experience like none other. I guarantee that you will become a better-rounded person than any single person who attends any other school in the surrounding community, and I guarantee that you can, and will, get into the college of your dreams.

In summary, for those of you who are looking down upon New Bedford High School as a whole, shame on you. Shame on you for publically destroying the credibility of the school that is some of these kids’ only chance to do something with their lives and better both themselves and their families. Shame on you for never stepping foot in the school but making judgments just based on what you hear, and being “afraid” to send your kids there. Shame on you for focusing on the negative rather than looking at all of the positive that floods off of Paul Walsh field each and every June, as students go out into the real world and do some incredible things at some incredible institutions. That is the New Bedford High School that I know and love- Once a Whaler, always a Whaler.

Sincerely,
-A recent NBHS graduate who is now studying Biomedical Engineering with a double minor in Public Health and Chemistry at one of the top institutions in the country.

Here are New Bedford Guide’s top stories this week from our website or Facebook page. Click on the bold title to read the original story.

1. New Bedford police seek public’s assistance in identity thief case – NBPD are looking for a woman who used a debit card to purchase $900 worth of Visa prepaid cards at a Kings Highway business. It is believed she has obtained the victims information and created a new card which she used at the store.
2. Two men shot in New Bedford drive by shooting – On Monday afternoon there was a drive by shooting that took place in the area of Cottage St. and Robeson St. Two men were shot and transported to Rhode Island Hospital and listed in serious condition.The police now have a suspect. Noel Pizarro Carrion, 21, of 297 Coffin Avenue. If you see him call 911. Photo here.
3. New Bedford police recover defaced semi-automatic handgun – The New Bedford police executed a search warrant last night at a 236 Hemlock Street apartment and recovered a .22 caliber semi-automatic Beretta handgun with the serial numbers defaced and 5 rounds of .22 caliber ammunition. Neither party possesses a license to carry firearms.
4. Man Arrested in Georgia on Charges Related to Suspicious Fire and Death in New Bedford – A suspect connected to the April 15th death of Justin Downey in New Bedford has been apprehended in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Sayeed Coggins, 36, of Providence, RI, was arrested during the overnight hours Tuesday into Wednesday by U.S. Marshalls
5. Man with black skeleton mask robs Tedeschi’s – A robbery occurred this week at Tedeschi’s market located at 450 Ashley Boulevard. The suspect was not armed, but was wearing a skeleton mask.
6. New New Bedford Resident: Musings of a Southern Transplant – Jennifer Hollie Bowles shared her experience about moving from Knoxville, Tennessee to Taunton and eventually to New Bedford.
7. Fairhaven Police respond to man ordering young boy into truck – A man ordered a young boy into his truck in Fairhaven. The community came together and made the article viral on Facebook.
8. New Bedford Police Department Records First Nasal Narcan Save – One of New Bedford’s police officers used Nasal Narcan to save a 37-year old man from a fatal overdose yesterday on Hillman Street. It’s the first recorded save since New Bedford Police were trained and equipped with the life saving drug.
9. New Bedford on eBay – We built a page to showcase some nice New Bedford items on eBay.
10. Local Death Metal Giants at Club XS – The Metal scene is making a resurgence in New Bedford. This week, four of the most talented bands in the area converged on XS Night Club Friday night.

A few months ago we discussed Jonathan Abreu’s All Friends Catering and focused on one thing that they do better than anyone in the area: Bar-B-Que – unless of course, it’s your mom’s Bar-B-Que, in which case it’s the best on planet earth. That article, especially the images – pardon the pun – got the juices flowing and let people in greater New Bedford know about their mouth watering offerings.

However, All Friends Catering is so much more than authentic and New England Bar-B-Que. They have ways, tools, and methods to get those salivary glands popping and kick your special event up a notch! More importantly, they have ways to bring it to you, allowing you to divert time and energy away from cook preparation and put it into making that special function a memorable experience. For foodies and partiers like us, that’s great news!

We at New Bedford Guide are promoters and practitioners of the maxim “Buy local!” for reasons explained in an article we published early in April. Abreu re-iterated multiple times how important this was to him personally and it’s locked and loaded into his business model.

It is not only crucial, but in his mind mandatory, that a chef buys local produce, and the freshest ingredients to offer a superior dining experience. Anything less, and the menu suffers.

The meats, dairy, and produce come from only local farms, like Silverbrook Farm in Acushnet, and suppliers like local icon Giammalvos and the many Fisherman’s markets throughout the waterfront and beyond. He proudly serves Jim’s Organic Coffee as part of my full service menu. This is a man who is passionate about his food and what he lets past his guard to the diners.

All Friends Catering has a large and diverse menu, which allows them to cater to you, your friends and family regardless of restrictions, allergy sensitivity, or preference. They will effortlessly devise a full menu that accommodates those with food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets. Bar-B-Que? Check. New England Fare? Covered. Are you fanatical like I am about Portuguese food? Well, their Portuguese food rivals any full restaurant in greater New Bedford, Fall River or beyond.

All Friends “traditional” menu offers classics like:

• Bifanas– Seasoned pork loin, sliced and pan seared and baked with sliced onions. Topped with sliced red peppers.
• Portuguese Little Necks – Fresh littleneck clams cooked in a garlic white wine sauce with onions, peppers, and ground chourico.
• Kale Soup – A Portuguese favorite containing Yukon gold potatoes, Cannelloni beans, kale, yellow onions, seasoned beef and slice chourico simmered in a chicken stock with garlic and bay leaves.
• Chicken or Shrimp Mozambique-Fresh shrimp or sliced chicken breast simmered in a garlic and beer sauce with crushed red peppers, onions, bay leaves, and Goya seasoning.
• Cacoila– Cubes of pork loin marinated in white wine with garlic, cumin, and bay leaves and slow cooked with crushed red pepper, orange juice, and white wine until fork tender .
• Pork Alentejana – Cubes of pork loin marinated in white wine, garlic, and bay leaves, pan seared in oil then simmered in a garlic and tomato white wine sauce with sliced onions and fresh littleneck clams. Served with roasted potatoes.”
• Bacalhau Gomes Sa– Salted codfish seasoned and layered with sliced potatoes and onions. Oven baked and topped with hard boiled eggs, and black olives.

Salivating yet?

Abreu could easily rely on his ethnic credentials and authenticate his Portuguese dishes by saying “Hey…I’m Portuguese. I’m the genuine article.” But he is a “practicing,” proud Portagee! He belongs to to Clube Madeirenese S.S. Sacramento, and All Friends Catering is part of the annual Portuguese Feast, which he has been volunteering for these past 10 years. It’s likely that you’ve eaten his dishes and not even known it! The Portuguese Feast is celebrating their 100th Anniversary, this year and you will find Jonathan on the grill cooking the Carne D’Espeto in the booth right next to the malassadas. Be sure to stop in and say hi!

Before the feast arrives you can also get a sample of what All Friends does in the “Taste of South Coast” event in May.

They bring their delicacies to you and treat your special occasion with equal importance, whether it’s something as casual as a backyard cookout, a big game, birthday party, even bachelorette party or something very formal like a wedding or graduation. In essence, it’s like having a fine restaurant come to you in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by only your chosen friends and family.

Family, friends, food, and fine dining – it doesn’t get any better than that, and you’ll be hard pressed to find someone who brings it to you better than All Friends Catering.

All Friends Catering

1133 Fisher Rd
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747
*By appointment only!

Phone: 774.628.9735
Email: Jon@allfriendscatering.com
Website: allfriendscatering.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/All-Friends-Catering-BBQ/136699856387438

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The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce announced that it is offering a trip to Madeira, Portugal, in September, 2014 for members of the organization and their friends and families.

The seven-day, six-night trip runs from September 12 – 19th of 2014. The trip is priced at $2,647 per person double occupancy and includes round-trip international airfare from Logan International Airport, 4 Star hotel accommodations, two full day sightseeing tours of Porto Moniz, Cabo Girao, Pico do Areeiro and Santana (both tours include lunch), and one half day tour of Eira do Serrado and Camara de Lobos. All tours include English-speaking tour guides. Buffet breakfast provided daily.

Price is based on double occupancy. A $300 per person deposit is due at the time of registration and is included in the total fare; non-refundable after June 13, 2014. The trip balance is due before July 28, 2014. A valid passport is required. Travelers may obtain optional cancellation waiver and insurance for an additional cost.

The Chamber and the Whaling Museum is sponsoring this trip to Madeira in partnership with Fran’s Travel; a family-owned travel business based out of New Bedford, MA with over thirty-two years of experience in the travel industry.

A full itinerary and additional information about the trip can be found by visiting the chamber’s Web site at www.newbedfordchamber.com. Space is limited. For more information, please contact the Chamber at 508-999-5231, ext.24.