Due to the expected low wind chill for this evening (21 degrees) the overflow will be opened again tonight. All inquiries can be forwarded to Sister Rose House and 1-800-homeless.

Numerous members of the public have reported to State Police that they received hoax telephone calls yesterday that showed the phone number of the calls’ origin to be the number of the State Police Middleborough Barracks, 508-947-2222.

When the call recipients answered, they were told to hold for an officer regarding a complaint or charges that had been issued against them. The “officer” then told the call recipients they needed to pay a fine of several thousand dollars or face a lawsuit to resolve the matter.

The calls are hoaxes. Anyone receiving calls like these, or calls of any similar nature, should immediately hang up. Never go anywhere or provide any personal information or money as a result of an unsolicited, unexpected, or suspicious phone call. Please be aware that no police department will ever call someone to tell them there is a warrant or complaint against them, and no police department will ever ask for any amount of money to be turned over to it.

Trainees of the Massachusetts State Police 83rd Recruit Training Troop, who will graduate from the State Police Academy next week and become MSP Troopers, have raised $10,355 for Cops For Kids With Cancer. The class made a ceremonial check presentation on Thursday.

Accepting the check on behalf of Cops for Kids With Cancer, which provides financial support to families of children receiving cancer treatment, were Canton Police Deputy Chief Helena Rafferty, the organization’s president, and State Police Detective Lieutenant William Coulter, chairman of the group’s Board of Directors.

Fundraising for the Cops for Kids charity is not the only act of service the trainees have performed during the six months they have spent in New Braintree preparing to become MSP Troopers. They fanned out across the state on the day before Thanksgiving to perform a wide range of community service duties, and also collected donations for the Toys for Tots Program in December.

Joining the Recruit Training Troop for this morning’s check presentation were Colonel Kerry Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; Lieutenant Colonel Barry O’Brien, Deputy Superintendent of Department; Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Grenham, Commander of the Division of Standards and Training, Major Matthew Roy, Deputy Commander of the Division of Standards and Training; Captain Michael Lyver, Academy Commandant, and other Division and Academy staff members.

More information about the important work done by Cops For Kids With Cancer may be found at https://copsforkidswithcancer.org/.

The Massachusetts State Police are investigating a serious crash on Route 24 northbound at Harrison Boulevard in Avon involving two vehicles, one of which struck a utility pole. One victim has suffered serious injuries.

There are downed power lines on the roadway as a result of the pole being struck. Route 24 northbound is currently closed at Exit 18. It is expected to be reopened shortly.

The crash occurred shortly after 2 AM. An occupant of one of the vehicles, a woman approximately age 23, was ejected in the crash and has been transported to Massachusetts General Hospital by medical helicopter with serious injuries. She is believed to have been the passenger. A second occupant of the same vehicle, a woman believed to have been driving, was transported by ground ambulance to Good Samaritan Hospital in Brockton.

Preliminary investigation suggests that following an impact with another car, the vehicle that those victims were in continued to travel off the road, where it struck trees and the utility pole.

The operator of the second car, a man, was transported by ground ambulance to an area hospital.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by Troop H of the Massachusetts State Police with assistance from the MSP Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section and the MSP Crime Scene Services Section. The results of the investigation will determine whether charges are sought against anyone involved.

A utility company crew also responded to the scene to remove remove the active power lines from the roadway.

Troopers from Troop D have been diverting traffic off Route 24 northbound in Brockton, south of the crash scene.

Meet Kathlyn Dias, 26-year-old Model, Content Creator, and Social Media Influencer.

Kathlyn was born in New Bedford to two Cape Verdean parents, who migrated to New Bedford to create a better life for their family. After high school, Kathlyn attended Umass Dartmouth for one year and didn’t return as she wasn’t sure what she wanted to do for a career at that point in her life.

She had always dreamt of becoming a model and in magazines, so she began building a following on social media platforms, using Youtube to review different make-up that she uses and offering tutorial videos. With the push from her now husband, Sean, they began taking her journey seriously, submitting her content to several large beauty companies annual contests. In 2017, she won every contest she submitted her work to and this opened the door for her to work with companies such as Palmers, Maybeline, Covergirl, MAC Cosmetics, and Elf Cosmetics.

Using her reach on Instagram, where she has over 120,000 followers, she works with many brands to promote their products and allow herself to be a stay at home mom to her two children, working with her husband to create all of the content they use for promotion. She hopes that she can inspire the youth from our city to never give up on their dreams.

“Seek God first and find your purpose. Don’t let anything hold you back and when you find the thing that fulfills you, don’t get caught up in the things that don’t matter, but chase your dreams.”

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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.

Read more of the Faces of New Bedford series here.

From the City of New Bedford Police Department:

“We are proud of our New Bedford Police Officer Nathan Pimentel, who rescued six people from a burning building at 282 Tinkham St. early Wednesday. He also helped to alert the fire department to a 56-year-old woman who was found in her second floor apartment, unresponsive.

Officer Pimentel was the first to arrive on the scene. He was immediately able to evacuate three males from the second floor, as well as three females from the first floor prior to the fire department’s arrival.

After removing these individuals, he was then informed that a female may still be inside the second floor apartment in a bedroom, which seemed to be where the fire had originated. His efforts started a chain of heroic events that displayed great teamwork among city law enforcement, fire and emergency medical teams.

The woman had no pulse when she was removed from the building by the fire department. She was revived by emergency medical personnel and transported to St. Luke’s Hospital and then to Rhode Island Hospital.

Sadly, she did not survive. But everyone made heroic efforts to give her every chance. And Officer Pimental’s rescue of the residents represents the department’s commitment to public service and safety.”

Great job by NBPD, NBFD and EMS!

This past month we have seen some serious swings in the weather – from double digit negative temperatures and lots of snow to the mid-50s and lots of sunshine. This weekend we’ll have some cold nights and mornings – in the mid to upper 20s – combined with some rather sunny, warm days with temperatures on the mid-40s. For many that means they can break out their shorts.

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? Add it here. Know of another event this weekend? Post a reply!

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Friday, January 19th

Winter Warmer “Wine & Dine” (10:00am-9:00pm)
Warm up your winter with wine + dine specials at Brix Restaurant. Enjoy HALF PRICE bottles of Newport Vineyard wine with the purchase of an entrée Tuesday – Friday, excludes Brut Sparkling, dessert wines and guest wines, limit two bottles per table. Newport Vineyards was originally planted in 1977 on a hill overlooking Rhode Island Sound with the goal of producing fine wines and as a way of preserving beautiful agricultural land from rapid development. Aquidneck Island is blessed with one of the most desirable farming areas in the country, if not the world. Newport Vineyards, 909 East Main Rd. (Route 138), Middletown, RI.

Weekend of Women (12:00pm-8:00pm)
In honor of the first anniversary of the historic Women’s Marches, including the Boston Women’s March for America, Massachusetts is proud to contribute a weekend of women-led activism and education. Please join us for the #WeekendOfWomen!

March Forward Massachusetts, the organizers of the 2017 Boston Women’s March for America, is coordinating a series of events across Massachusetts to deepen our solidarity, inject fuel and energy for our 2018 agenda, and to demonstrate that we are a movement of impact and action. Mark yourself as attending to keep up to date with events taking place near you, or reach out to kcosmas@marchforwardmass.org to learn more and lead. Click event title for full details and sites across the state.

Hockey Night Fundraiser (7:00pm-10:00pm)
Join us in another family fun evening at the Dunk for a Providence Bruins game!!! We have a great time at the last one we are doing another one!! Thank You for your support. Fall River Fire Museum, 1181 N Main St., Fall River, MA.

Loose Screws Returns! – Live in the Vault (9:30pm)
Dartmouth based band – “a bunch of Wild and Crazy kids Rockin Out!” Greasy Luck Brewpub, 791 Purchase St., New Bedford.

Saturday, January 20th

Women’s Forum & PerSisterhood Luncheon (10:00am-1:00pm)
Join us for a curated discussion on Southcoast Women’s Issues including misogyny in the workplace, biased local media, public safety and more. Please RSVP using the google form. Lunch will be served. Part of the Weekend of Women 2018. Open to Female and non-binary individuals. Men who wish to participate should join the march at 2pm and activism meetup at 3pm following this event. Free to attend. Bristol Community College, 800 Purchase St., New Bedford.

South Shore Wine & Food Expo (1:00pm-8:03pm)
Chef cooking and sampling paired foods and more! The 2018 South Shore Food & Wine Expo is ready to amaze you! Read on to find out more about what you can see and do at this year’s show. Tickets sell out – these also make great holiday gifts so plan ahead and buy early. Featuring more wineries pouring hundreds of wines on both floors combined and unlike other Expos food is INCLUDED in your ticket price for the Grand Tasting. This is the perfect place to learn about your favorite wines and food or to make new discoveries. What do I get for my admission?

Ability to taste as many wines as you would like as well as food samples from some great New England Chefs, area restaurants as well as a chocolate and cheese area. Access to some of the latest and greatest products on Vendor Row. Plymouth – Memorial Hall, 83 Court Street, Plymouth.

Women’s March New Bedford (2:00pm-3:00pm)
Anniversary of the Women’s March in downtown New Bedford, MA. Starting at Custom House Square. Open to all! Children and families welcome. Come with your group and bring a sign! Singers include Miss New Bedford 2017 Sara Achorn and Showstoppers Performing Arts, Inc. Speakers include U.S. Representative Bill Keating and Poet Laureate Patricia Gomes.

Statement of March Values: In all areas, ATMA and all March affiliates stand for equal rights, religious tolerance, freedom of the press, science, inclusivity, social justice, economic freedom, and fundamental human decency. Custom House Square, 21 Barkers Lane, New Bedford.

New Bedford Watercolor Drawings- works by Carl Simmons (5:00pm-8:00pm)
We are excited to announce Groundwork’s first exhibition of 2018, “New New Bedford Watercolor Drawings”- recent works on paper by Carl Simmons. Carl creates colorful grotesque portraitures inspired by his passion for the preservation of local history coupled with an interest in the inevitable decay of matter and information. We hope you can join us to celebrate at the Opening Reception, Saturday, January 20th from 5-8pm, snacks, drinks and music from Carl’s record collection provided! Exhibition dates: 1/20/18- 2/28/18. Groundwork, 1213 Purchase St., New Bedford.

Ken Richards – Pub Side Acoustic (6:00pm-9:00pm)
Ken Richards solo acoustic on the pub side. Greasy Luck Brewpub, 791 Purchase St., New Bedford.

Mass Attack Roller Derby “Meet & Greet” (6:00pm-9:00pm)
Mass Attack Roller Derby will be hosting their first Meet & Greet of the 2018 year and we want YOU to lace up and join the pack. Have you had an interest in roller derby and wondered how you can get involved? Are you looking for a way to incite challenge and change into your new year? Our Meet & Greets are a great, low-key time to meet the skaters and officials of Mass Attack Roller Derby. Come ask questions and learn what it takes to be a new rookie skater, or official!

Hang out and get a preview of life with our league! Admission to open skate is $10 and skate rental is $3, charged by Carousel Family Fun Center. Skate, chat, and have a good time with us! If you have your own skates, bring them! Our open recruiting night is Monday 1/22/18, also held at Carousel Family Fun Center, 4 David Drown Blvd. Fairhaven MA. This night is a more formal orientation into the league and information on that can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/events/145790885984919/.

Sunday, January 21st

SouthCoast Flea Market (9:00am-4:00pm)
Bring yourself, bring a friend; come on down Sundays 9AM – 4PM. Fill your stomach at the snack bar and leave with a bag filled with antiques to nick-knacks. Indoor flea market for just $.50 per person and children under 12 are free. Street and parking lot parking. SouthCoast Flea Market, 251 Brook Street, New Bedford.

2018 Health & Fitness Expo (11:00am-4:00pm)
Help kickoff your New Year’s Resolution by learning more about health & fitness! There will be performances by The Dancer Edge and Tai Chi by David Chosid. FREE 30 minute group classes directed by local trainers/ instructors. There will be numerous vendors selling organic and natural products, healthier cleaning options and much much more!

Make sure to check out our raffle tables with many donations from businesses within the community. Proceeds from this event will be donated to the Greater New Bedford Voc Tech’s athletic Department! Sponsored by The Dancer’s Edge & I’ve Got Rhythm Dance Studios, The Greater New Bedford Community Health Center and Natural Beauty By Sara. Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational-Technical High School, 1121 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford.

Rock the Coats Fundraiser! (1:00pm-8:00pm)
ome out to Greasy Luck Brewpub on Sunday Jan 21 from 1pm – 8pm to support a great cause and enjoy a day full of great music in our First Annual Rock the Coats Fundraiser sponsored by Attorney Richard Bennett, The Music Box, and Greasy Luck Brewpub. Entry is ONE of either a $10 donation OR new/slightly used coats/boots OR canned/dry good OR pet food. All proceeds benefit the Veteran’s Transition House, New Bedford Women’s Center, and Lighthouse Animal Shelter.

Amazing musical lineup throughout the day, featuring: 2016 Boston Music Awards Winner “The Devil’s Twins” along with: Cook Bag, J. Kelley Band, The McGunks, The Pourmen, Salem Wolves, The Varsity Club. Greasy Luck Brewpub, 791 Purchase St., New Bedford.

Yamato Drummers at the Z (4:00pm)
amed for ‘the land of Yamato,” the birthplace of Japanese culture, the Yamato Drummers travel all over the world with Japan’s traditional Wadaiko drums, putting their very souls into the unusual instruments. These sounds evoke what the Japanese call “Tamashy,” translated as soul, spirit, and psyche – the basic elements of life. It is something that is invisible and intangible, but whose existence is certainly felt. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this pulse for yourself, as it is known to resonate within all bodies gathered at any given performance.

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

New Bedford Police will host a promotional and award ceremony at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19 at Keith Middle School to honor the promotions of Sgt. Justin Kagan to Lieutenant and Officer Michael Cassidy to Sergeant and to honor Officer Jeremy DeMello for his outstanding accomplishments within and outside the department.

Sgt. Kagan is a 13-year veteran of the force. He began his career with the New Bedford Police Department in 2005 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2012.

Officer Cassidy is a 24-year veteran of the force.

Officer DeMello is a 12-year veteran of the force.

Ten outstanding teens competed in the 8th annual Miss New Bedford’s Outstanding Teen pageant, but only one walked away with the crown, hundreds of dollars in scholarship prizes, gifts, entry to the state pageant, and the year of a lifetime.

Victoria Kalisz, a 16-year-old sophomore at Fairhaven High School, impressed the judges with her confidence, public speaking abilities, stage presence, poise, and talent – singing a jazzy rendition of California Dreamin’.

In addition to winning the title and a $500 scholarship, Victoria also received the Interview Award, a $100 scholarship, for earning the highest points in the interview competition. She also received the Fine Arts Award winning an additional $100 scholarship. Victoria also received gifts from community partners, and paid entry into the Miss Massachusetts’ Outstanding Teen pageant in April where she will compete for additional scholarships and prizes.

Throughout her year-long reign, Victoria will serve the City of New Bedford and its surrounding communities as a youth role model and active volunteer. She will dedicate her year of service to her personally selected platform, “Rise Up; Rise In Spite of Everything” which emphasizes strength and persistence as a foundation for success. Victoria hopes to share her personal story of battling and overcoming challenging health issues, and the strength and drive she developed as a result.

The pageant is a “little sister” program to the annual Miss New Bedford scholarship pageant. Contestants began the competition, held at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School on Saturday January 13th, in a private interview with a panel of five judges. At 6:00, the on-stage competition continued with the remaining phases of competition: Lifestyle & Physical Fitness, Talent, Evening Wear and On-Stage Question.

Additional award recipients included:

– Winner and recipient of a $500 scholarship was Victoria Kalisz. She also received the Interview Award ($100 scholarship) and the Fine Arts Award ($100 scholarship) as stated above.
– First runner-up, $250 scholarship: Alexandra Soares
– Second runner-up, $200 scholarship: Emma Boudreau
– Third runner-up, $150 scholarship: Rachel Perry
– Fourth runner-up, $100 scholarship: Victoria Fernandes
– Talent Award, $50 scholarship: Alexandra Soares
– Scholastic Achievement Award, $50 scholarship: Rachel Perry
– Spirit of Outstanding Teen, $100 scholarship: Rachel Perry
– Community Service Award, $50 scholarship: Rachel Perry
– Athletic and Academic Award, $100 scholarship: Rachel Perry
– Miracle Maker Award: Emma Boudreau

On behalf of the Greater New Bedford Scholarship Foundation, the program would like to thank its many sponsors and dedicated volunteers. For more information on sponsorships and/or becoming a contestant, visit www.missnewbedford.org. To view all photos from this year’s pageant, and to keep up with us throughout the year, search “Miss New Bedford” on Facebook.

The man that the Yarmouth Police Department arrested in August 2017 for sexual crimes involving ‘upskirting’ has been arrested again and is in custody.

Working diligently and painstakingly since his original arrest, the Yarmouth Police Department Detective Division has obtained several search warrants and seized multiple computers and other electronic devices.

The ongoing investigation revealed numerous other incidents of upskirting and other secret recordings in several other communities including Falmouth and in Rhode Island apparently tied in to him working as a self-employed cleaner cleaning at various homes and businesses all over southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Yarmouth Police Detectives and Proactive Anti-Crime Unit Officers working closely with Falmouth Police Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect.

On Friday, January 5, 2018, the suspect –who was out on bail pending trial from our previous charges–was tracked down and arrested again by members of the Massachusetts State Police Violent Fugitive Apprehension Section in New Bedford.

The suspect was transported to Yarmouth Police Department Headquarters and he refused to cooperate and speak to Police Officers.

The suspect was subsequently transferred to the Falmouth District Court and arraigned on the new sex crime charges in Falmouth District Court.

The suspect is currently in custody in the Barnstable County Correctional Facility in Bourne on $10,000 cash bail.

The case remains active and ongoing and additional charges are expected.

Mr. Wong had been hired to clean hundreds of homes and businesses throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

If you believe you may be a victim of Mr. Wong, please contact Yarmouth Police Department lead investigator Eric H. Nuss immediately at enuss@yarmouth.ma.us

Refer To Arrest: 18-20-AR

Arrest: DAVID ANTHONY WONG

Address: 79 BEDFORD Apt. #3 NEW BEDFORD, MA

Age: 50

Charges: WARRANT

The Yarmouth Police Department again commends Yarmouth Police Department lead investigator Detective Eric Nuss, Proactive Anti-Crime Unit Officer Christopher Van Ness, Trooper Mike Turgeon of the MSP VFAS Team, New Bedford PD, and the Falmouth Police Department who worked diligently and tirelessly together in making this subsequent and important public safety arrest.