Bristol County Sheriff Heroux visits New Bedford High School

“Sheriff Heroux visited New Bedford High School to give a presentation about corrections, the BCSO, and the importance of participating in civic duties.

After the presentation, students participated in an open Q&A session where they could ask the Sheriff anything they wanted to know. It was a very interactive and fun conversation for all involved.

Thank you to New Bedford High School for inviting the Sheriff today for this presentation!”-Bristol County Sheriff’s Office.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.


Bristol County Sheriff’s Office photo.




New Bedford Police Department visit Media Tech class at GNBRVT High School

“Earlier this week, Assistant Deputy Chief Scott Carola and Media Relations Specialist Holly Huntoon stopped by Ms. Gaspar & Ms. Alexander’s Media Technology class at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School to talk about the power of media and the effect it has on perceptions.

We will also be collaborating with the students to develop content for the New Bedford Police Department as an assignment for school.

Thank you for being such a great audience. We can’t wait to see what you all come up with! 🎥📹”-New Bedford Police Department.


New Bedford Police Department photo.




U.S. CPSC warns that narcotics, water beads, in nation’s water, a growing threat to children

“WASHINGTON, D.C. – During National Poison Prevention Week, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is highlighting serious, growing hazards facing young children, including a surge in unintentional poisoning from narcotics, and additional hazards identified with water bead products.

CPSC’s just-released report on unintentional pediatric poisonings found that 98 children under the age of 5 died from poisonings in 2022, a 66% increase from 2021. This increase was largely linked to narcotics and psychodysleptics. Deaths in this category nearly doubled in one year, from 33 in 2021 to 59 in 2022.

The report underscored the growing risks associated with these substances, with pediatric poisoning deaths in the U.S. rising steadily since 2019 from a low of 17 deaths in 2018; the lowest since CPSC was created in 1972.

Additionally, the report found that there were 68,600 emergency department-treated (ED-treated) injuries in children under 5 in 2022, a nearly 10% increase from the estimated 62,600 injuries in 2021.

Notably, the estimated injuries from pediatric poisonings involving acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and narcotics medications increased from 2021 to 2022:

• Acetaminophen incidents increased from an estimated 4,700 related ED-treated injuries to 5,700;

• Ibuprofen incidents increased from an estimated 2,000 related ED-treated injuries to 3,600; and

• Narcotic medication incidents increased from an estimated 1,200 related ED-treated injuries to 2,500.

“The recent rise in pediatric poisonings is heartbreaking,” said CPSC Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric. “Keeping drugs, as well as cleaning supplies, laundry packets, and button batteries safely out of reach is vital to protecting children. The CPSC is committed to preventing such tragedies by enforcing laws requiring safe packaging of poisonous substances, holding companies accountable for selling deadly products, and arming caregivers with information on how to keep their little ones safe.”

CPSC Issues Product Safety Warnings for Water Bead Products:

CPSC also today issued two product safety warnings related to new evidence pointing to toxicity in some water bead products, which may lead to adverse health effects in children.

In separate warnings, CPSC urged consumers to throw away water bead products from Jangostor and Tuladuo due to acrylamide levels that present the risk of toxicity. Neither Chinese company has agreed to an acceptable recall

The product warnings highlight that water bead hazards can go beyond ingestion, expansion and obstruction inside a child. Acrylamide is a known carcinogen. The large water beads in CPSC’s warnings contain levels of acrylamide in violation of the Federal Hazardous Substances Act.

CPSC data show that nearly 7,000 water bead-related ingestion injuries were treated in emergency departments in the U.S. from 2018 through 2022. CPSC is also aware of the death of a 10-month-old girl in 2023.

Protect young children from poisoning dangers following a few safety tips:

Drugs or Medications:

• Keep drugs and medications safely stored in a locked cabinet or box and out of the reach of children.
• Keep drugs and medicines in their original child-resistant containers and never in unsecured containers.
• Properly discard unfinished or unused drugs and medicines.

Water Beads:

• CPSC Recommendation: Remove water beads from any environment where young children may be present.
• Store water beads in a secure container and location where young children cannot easily access them.
• Do not allow children to play with water beads unsupervised.

Laundry Packets:

• Store laundry packets in their original containers and out of a child’s sight and reach.
• Do not let children handle laundry detergent packets.

Household Cleaning Supplies:

• Keep chemicals and cleaning supplies safely stored in a locked cabinet or box and out of the reach of children.
• Keep household chemicals in their original child-resistant containers.

Button Cell or Coin Batteries:

• Keep products with accessible batteries away from children if the battery compartments do not have a screw closure or if the compartment is damaged.
• Check the toys in your home to make sure battery compartments are secured.
• Do not allow children to play with or be in contact with button cell or coin batteries.

In Case of Emergency: Call National Poison Help Line at 800-222-1222, 24 hours a day.”-Consumer Product Safety Commission.

CPSC’s Annual Report on Pediatric Poisoning Fatalities and Injuries




New Bedford’s bookmobile to deliver library services across the city

“NEW BEDFORD – The New Bedford Free Public Library recently debuted its new outreach vehicle, the Mobile Library. An expansion of the Bookmobile program, the Mobile Library delivers books, materials, and other services to patrons who are unable to visit the library, such as those who are homebound, have mobility challenges or live in senior housing or other similar residential facilities.

The idea to expand the Bookmobile program was born in 2019, and the demand for services during the pandemic, when many people called who were unable to access the library in person, further highlighted the persistent need.

“This is another step in our effort to modernize our library system,” Mayor Jon Mitchell said. “The Mobile Library ensures equitable access and brings library services to every New Bedford resident.”

The Mobile Library is a Ford 500 Series van wrapped in an attractive, inviting design skin. Donned with slogans and a City logo, the Mobile Library has room inside for portable carts with a collection of books curated to meet the needs of patrons at each site. These carts can be wheeled outside, or rolled into a lobby, for easier access.

Library Director Olivia Melo said getting something smaller in size than the traditional bus-sized Bookmobile was a top priority over the three-year process of acquiring the Mobile Library.

“It’s much easier to navigate city streets, and any member of the staff can drive it, whereas the larger vehicle required a driver with a Commercial Driver’s License,” she said. “New Bedford is fortunate to have five library building across the City to meet the needs of residents, but we were lacking a way to bring library services to those who find themselves unable to get to a library branch.”

The Mobile Library has already started delivery services to homebound residents in the North End and to others in nursing homes and senior living centers. It will also be a common sight this summer when it attends festivals, parades and events throughout the City to promote the library and its services.

The Mobile Library was made possible through a $50,000 American Rescue Plan Act grant award through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners and almost $80,000 from the State Aid to Public Libraries program.

For questions about scheduling a visit from the Mobile Library, please contact Ned Denby, branch manager, at 508-991-6274. For inquiries about having it attend events, please contact Karen Tolman, senior branch manager, at 508-991-6214.” -City of New Bedford.




Lending Library at New Bedford Libraries offers much more than books and movies

“New Bedford, Massachusetts – The top 5 items checked out from the New Bedford Free Public Library’s Funbrary collection are a ukulele, keyboard, microscope kit, light up tracing pad, and the bean bag toss. The program has been so successful that the number of checkouts by library patrons increased by 332% compared to 2020 when it opened.

The Funbrary is a collection of items that moves beyond the traditional materials found at a library. From a telescope to a portable DVD player, from knitting needles to a metal detector, the New Bedford Free Public Library provides patrons with access to a collection of items that encourages exploration, waste reduction, and learning while saving money. Or maybe you’re looking for something more practical. No problem! They have bike locks, wall stud finders and thermal leak detectors.

“Rather than multiple families purchasing tennis rackets, letter/number cake pans, or giant Jenga, possibly to use for a short time, the whole community can benefit by reusing these items. Reuse means less waste. People can try items out and decide if they want to buy them for their homes, rather than buy, try, and trash.” said Marissa Perez-Dormitzer, Waste Reduction Manager from the Greater New Bedford Regional Refuse Management District.

Interested in borrowing an item from the Funbrary? Items are available for checkout for a week with a SAILS Library card. Borrowers must be 18 years and older and can have up to 3 items checked out at a time. All New Bedford Library locations have a variety of items to be checked out. A detailed list of items can be found on the library’s website. Go to Quick Links at newbedford-ma.gov/library for each library’s offerings.

The items in the Funbrary Collection were purchased thanks to grant funding. The City’s Department of Facilities and Fleet Management (DFFM) received grant funding from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection in recognition of the City’s recycling efforts. DFFM has been funding the Funbrary Collection since 2020.

For more information, please call your local branch of the New Bedford Free Public Library.

• Casa Da Saudade Branch | 58 Crapo St. | 508-991-6218
• Howland Green Branch | 3 Rodney French Blvd. | 508-991-6212
• Lawler Branch | 745 Rockdale Ave. | 508-991-6216
• Main Library Downtown | 613 Pleasant St. | 508-991-6275
• Wilks Branch | 1911 Acushnet Ave. | 508-991-6214.”




New Bedford Police Department’s Civil Service Prep Course a huge success

“We were very pleased to see all of these eager candidates attend our free test preparation seminar today. We truly believe that it will be helpful to them.

Please wish all of our candidates luck as they follow their ambition to become police officers on the streets of our historic city.

Special thanks to the New Bedford Public Schools, and Keith Middle School for the gracious use of their facility.

On behalf of Assistant Deputy Chiefs Derek Belong and Scott Carola, as well as our Training Division commander Sgt. Trevor Sylvia, we wish you all the very best on examination day. Thank you for your attendance today.”-City of New Bedford Police Department.


City of New Bedford Police Department photo.




New Bedford Police Department to host 2024 Civil Service Prep Course

“Last week the NBPD participated in Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s career fair where we met some awesome students who had an interest in law enforcement!

We want to remind everyone that this Saturday, 2/24, the NBPD will be hosting a 2024 Civil Service Prep Course for the upcoming Exam in March. For more info or to sign up, email trainingdivision@newbedfordpd.com.”-City of New Bedford Police Department.




Absentee, mail-in ballots available in New Bedford for March Presidential Primary

“NEW BEDFORD – The New Bedford Election Commission is making available absentee and mail-in ballots for the March 5 Presidential Primary election.

Any registered voter can request to receive a mail-in or absentee ballot by visiting the Election Commission office at City Hall, 133 William St., during business hours, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Request forms have been mailed to registered voters in New Bedford.

If the request form is being mailed back to the Election Commission office, it must be received by Feb. 27 at 5 p.m. Forms can also be returned in person at the office until March 4 at 12 p.m. Request forms, and an online tool to submit a request, are also available on the Mass. Secretary of State’s website, https://www.sec.state.ma.us/divisions/elections/voting-information/vote-by-mail.htm.

All completed absentee or mail-in ballots must be returned to the Election Office by 8 p.m. on Election Day, March 5, to be counted. They can be mailed back, hand delivered to the Election Commission Office at City Hall, or placed in the drop-off boxes outside City Hall or on Elm Street by the bus terminal.

In the Presidential Primary on Tuesday, March 5, New Bedford voters may cast their vote for president, state committee man, state committee woman, and ward committee.

Early in-person voting for the primary begins on Feb. 24. More information about early voting schedule and locations is forthcoming.

Any New Bedford resident who is uncertain about their voting status, designated polling location, has changed their address since the last election, or has other questions about the election can contact the Board of Election Commissioners at 508-979-1420.”-City of New Bedford.




APPLY NOW: Over $700,000 in college scholarships to be awarded to South Coast students

Application deadline March 1st – Online info sessions January 31st and February 13th.

“NEW BEDFORD, MA – The SouthCoast Community Foundation, the largest provider of scholarships in southeastern Massachusetts, has opened its 2024 online application, with a March 1st deadline. Students complete just one application — no FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid) is required this year — and applicants are automatically matched with all eligible scholarship opportunities. More than 100 scholarships totaling over $700,000 will be awarded to high school seniors and college students in 2024.

“Supporting students in their pursuit and completion of postsecondary education and training as a path to increased economic mobility is a priority of the Community Foundation,” said Melanie Edwards-Tavares, President and CEO of the SouthCoast Community Foundation. “A recent study by the Washington Student Achievement Council concluded there is ‘strong evidence that a postsecondary education is a great intergenerational economic equalizer.’ We know that our cities lag in comparison to the rest of the state regarding postsecondary attendance, and we aim to change that by supporting students who may not otherwise be able to afford college or trade schools.”


SouthCoast Community Foundation photo.

Scholarships include: the Manuel S. Pina Scholarship (up to $10,000), offered to area students of Cape Verdean descent; the BankFive scholarship (up to $40,000), open to any college-bound senior in Bristol County, MA and Bristol and Newport Counties, RI; the Lipsky-Whittaker LGBTQ Scholarship (up to $5,000) for students who identify as LGBTQ+ or have been raised in an LGBTQ+ household; and the Jacobs Family Scholarship (up to $35,000) for New Bedford students going into science, math or engineering fields.

“My wife, Joan, and I have been delighted to be able to give back to my hometown of New Bedford over the years. Each year, we enjoy meeting the five students who are receiving the Jacobs Family Scholarship, and to connect with past scholars and hear about the great work they are now doing after college,” said Irwin Jacobs, a 1950 New Bedford High School graduate who went on to found Qualcomm, a multinational corporation in the semiconductor, software and wireless technology industries. The Jacobs Family Scholarship Fund was established with the Community Foundation in 2000 and since then has provided over $2 million in scholarships for New Bedford students.

This year, the Community Foundation will offer two virtual information sessions, on January 31st at 6:30 pm and February 13th at 5:30 pm. In the sessions, students will learn about the application process, what scholarships are available, and how applications are evaluated. Registration is available at southcoastcf.org/scholarships

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About the SouthCoast Community Foundation
The SouthCoast Community Foundation is a nonprofit serving the communities of southeastern Massachusetts through philanthropy. The Community Foundation’s mission is to mobilize philanthropy by matching donors and resources with community needs for the benefit of our region. Since 1995, the organization has distributed over $50 million from nearly 200 funds to humanitarian, educational, and cultural organizations in the region. For more information, visit southcoastcf.org.“-SouthCoast Community Foundation.




New Bedford’s Global Learning Charter Public School appoints new Executive Director

“New Bedford, MA – January 8, 2024 – The Global Learning Charter Public School (GLCPS), a tuition-free public charter school that currently services 500 students in grades 5-12, today announces that Stephen J. Furtado, Jr. has been named the school’s newest executive director, effective July 1, 2024.

Furtado, Jr. replaces Dr. Stephen J. Furtado, Sr., who announced his planned retirement last year, and will complete his 15-year tenure as of June 30, 2024. The search for Furtado’s replacement was conducted by the GLCPS Board of Trustees.

Stephen J. Furtado, Jr.
Stephen J. Furtado, Jr. the school’s newest executive director.

Furtado, Jr. currently serves as the school’s director of business and finance, a position he has held for the last 12 years. During this time, highlights of his accomplishments include realizing over $4.7 million in combined end-of-year surplus funding, the renovation of the new, state-of-the-art Joan and Irwin Jacobs Center for STEAM Education, and a five-year “Low Risk” rating average on the Massachusetts Charter School Financial Dashboard.

“Over his tenure, Steve has been a vital contributor to the achievements of the Global Learning Charter Public School,” said Marc Clerc, chair of the GLCPS Board of Trustees. “We can think of no one better to further foster the school’s reputation for educational excellence and community engagement.”

Furtado, Jr. came to Global Learning Charter Public School in 2010, starting as the school’s assistant to the director of business. Prior to joining GLCPS, Furtado, Jr. served as a program director at YMCA South Coast Camp Massasoit.

Furtado, Jr. earned his MBA in organizational leadership and Bachelor of Science in accounting from UMass Dartmouth. He holds an initial license for superintendent/assistant superintendent and a professional license for school business administrator, both issued by the Massachusetts Department of Education. He is also a Massachusetts Certified Public Purchasing Official by the Office of the Inspector General.

“I am honored to be chosen for this role,” said Furtado, Jr. “I am so appreciative of the confidence and support I have received from the GLCPS community, and I look forward to working with faculty, staff, and friends to build on the legacy of my predecessor, achieving even greater heights for our school together.”

Open to New Bedford residents, Global Learning Charter Public School is a tuition-free public school that serves students in grades 5-12. GLCPS offers a small, personalized learning environment in which students are encouraged to realize their full potential, both academically and personally. For more information, please visit www.glcps.org or call 508-991-4105.”