Looking for a perfect gift for Mother’s Day? Check out our video spotlight on Isabelle Grace Jewelry located at 498 Pleasant St. in New Bedford. They pride themselves on hand crafted, personalized jewelry.
Rope. Something we all take for granted. It’s ubiquitous throughout our lives, yet we barely notice unless we are undertaking some type of activity like sailing, rock climbing, or an arborist or if you are a member of the fire department, police department or in the military.
Without rope there’d be no hobby rock climbing, removal of trees, one wouldn’t be able to dock a boat, sail, rescue teams would be less effective, no tents for camping, no mountain climbing, construction, engineering, hammocks, clotheslines to dry clothes, no towing and many other things.
Vintage photos of rope manufacturing and supply companies in New Bedford are extant on just about any photo repository on the city. At one time they were dozens of them spread throughout the city. No rope, no whaling. No whaling, no whaling city! These companies have just about disappeared, but one that still exists is R&W Rope at 39 Tarkiln Place. The family owned and operated distributor of rope and cordage has been in New Bedford since 1985, and at their current location since 2005.
Started by the current owner, Rod McCollester as a “one man” operation out of the trunk of a hand-me-down car, they’ve grown into one of the most diverse stocking warehouses of rope, cordage, and related hardware in the industry. As a wholesale distributor of many of the world’s best ropes, R&W Rope offers wholesale pricing that easily beats “big box” marine and outdoors retailers. They also have the expertise focuses on custom designing solutions specific to a user’s needs. They can splice, swage, or fabricate a solution to almost any cordage or rigging problem.
But, don’t be fooled – while they work with some of the biggest commercial clients, they are just as happy to help an individual select the proper cord for a clothesline when they visit our shop. One of the areas that they are superlative with is their new expanded marine rigging capabilities. Whether your needs are marine, climbing, safety, crafting, architecture, outdoors, or utility – R&W Rope has the products, expertise, and discount pricing to make them a wise choice.
However, this article is about their association with the city they love so much, beyond their business: their annual Rope Fest which began as a huge warehouse sale a decade ago. However, over the years it’s evolved into something much more and is chock full of activities, instructional demos, safety personnel demos from the Boston Fire Department doing mock rescues, and arborists demonstrating their skills. You’ll see line splicing, knot tying that borders on magic, paracord crafting, and fitness experts having a lead contest called Battle Ropes. It’s a genuine festival atmosphere like any of the many festivals held in New Bedford.
The kid’s will have a blast on the climbing wall which is a great way to have fun and exercise for all ages. The lifesaving and rescue demonstrations by the Boston Fire Department trainers will appeal to everyone, and the kids will take great pride in the paracord crafts where they will learn how to make the cord and take it home to show their friends. There will be plenty of free food and refreshments to wet your whistle. If you are someone who loves a deal, R&W Rope will be offering 20%-40% off on EVERYTHING they sell.
R&W Rope is steeped in the community as is evident by their Rope Festival – something they certainly don’t have to do, but host because they live and work right here on the SouthCoast. This is their community. So, it goes without saying that there will be other “locals” involved in the popular festival like the Buzzards Bay Coalition, Community Boating Center of New Bedford, Schooner Ernestina, New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center, New Bedford Coast Guard Auxilliary, Fids & Fibers Arborist Splicing Workshop, Puzzle & Craft Factory, Busy Bee Nauticals, Paige’s Paracord, Bete-Fleming, Low Tide Yacht Club, The Black Leash, Susan Villarreal, Beetle Cat, and Arborist Patrick Dolan.
So, if the idea of something different to do with the family interests you, then take everyone to R&W’s Rope Fest and have a blast. The kids will have so much fun that they won’t even realize that they are learning a lot. Who knows, it may pique a future hobby like rock climbing or sailing and perhaps even a career in nautical, rescue, or with the fire department.
No matter what you’ll spend a rewarding, fun-filled day with friends and family! Don’t forget Saturday, April 28th from 8:00am-4:00pm!
Here are highlights of the food, events, items and more from last year’s Rope Fest:
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R&W Rope – Rigging Solutions
39 Tarkiln Place
New Bedford, MA 02745
Phone: 1.800.260.8599
Website: rwrope.com
Facebook: facebook.com/rwrope/
Facebook Event Page: facebook.com/events/218475395371413
Twitter: @rwrope
Instagram: instagram.com/rwrope
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/rwrope/
Meet The People At R&W Rope:
Rod McCollester – Owner and President of R&W Rope. Over thirty years experience in the rope and cordage industry.
Ed Hebert – Sr. Director, R&W Rope. Oversees marketing, creative, and product design efforts across the business units. Former Sr. R&D Manager at Titleist, and holds over 150 US patents.
Corey Butlin – Rigging Solutions Shop Manager – 25 years of marine rigging experience, former head rigger at Hall Spars in Newport.
Joe Mello – Mobile Rigging Manager – 40 years of marine rigging experience. Former owner of Rigging Solutions, former head rigger at Concordia, former head rigger at Mystic Seaport.
Bob Dollar – Traditional Rigging Specialist. Lt. Commander USN (retired with 26 years active duty service), member of International Guild of Knot Tyers, member of Cordage Institute, and over 40 years maritime consulting experience.
Bob Glover – Traditional Rigging Specialist. Former Captain of Tall Ships “Pride of Baltimore II” and “Schooner Virginia”. Over 154,000 logged sea miles. USCG certified instructor and numerous maritime certifications.
Ken Hamel – Outdoor, Climbing, and Safety Specialist. S.P.R.A.T. Level 1 Technician, avid outdoorsman and member of several mountain climbing instructional groups.
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Our skin health can have serious impact on our mental well-being. Our appearance goes a long well in how we feel about ourselves and suffering from something like hair loss, allergies, oily skin, scars, or other issues can have a detrimental affect on our happiness and desire to interact socially and confidently.
Inversely speaking, when our skin is glowing, and healthy, scars are hidden or allergies are addressed we feel much happier about ourselves and feel there is no barrier or distraction when it comes to social interactions and events. Nothing can make us more self-conscious than having a skin issue, particularly in the facial area.
There is now a company on the Southcoast located on South Main Street in Acushnet that specializes in Eyebrow Microblading and Medical and Cosmetic tattooing. Registered Nurse Patricia Ann Workman, owner and founder of Southcoast Dermalgraphics, LLC launched her business late in December of 2015.
Her inspiration for this work was her aunt Tina Brown. Her aunt who succumbed to breast cancer last year began asking Patricia five years sgo what she knew about three dimensional nipple tattoos for women following a mastectomy.
This led Patricia to research what type of training was necessary to perform the procedure and ultimately the shocking realization that there were very few practitioners in New England that are masters at this “sacred art.” Thus began Patricia’s long journey of obtaining multiple certifications over several years as well as a two year and a half year internship with the world renkown Doreen Lindgren. This included a certification as a Permanent Makeup Artist, a Medical Micropigmentation/Scar Relaxation and Collagen Induction Therapy Specialist, Follicle Hair Repigmentation Specialist, Eliminink Tatoo Removal Specialist and most recently an Eyebrow Microblading Specialist with Everlasting Brows.
Next came the tedious task of meeting all the criteria to obtain a body art permit from the town. It was during her two year internship that she met Sonia Nyren. Sonia is a native Brazilian who speaks fluent English and Portuguese who Patricia immediately realized had the same passion for this type of work that she did. They hit it off immediately and Patricia asked Sonia to join her. Sonia, a licensed Level 1 Esthitician then formed Southcoast Skincare and created a beautiful space in the 3 room suite. Sonia offers facials, microderm abrasion, eyebrow design/ eyebrow henna application, as well as many other services. Patricia was extremely excited to announce that Sonia will be offering lash lift services by Ellebana and lash tinting by Belmasil in the very near future.
Sound like a service that you or someone you know could use? You might have concerns when it comes to skin – you can’t trust just anyone with it. Southcoast Dermalgraphics belongs to The American Association of Micropigmentation and abides by their guidelines. An AAM medical questionnaire is used during a comprehensive consultation which is done with every client to ensure they are a proper candidate. Some clients require a physicians approval. To stay Board of Health and insurance compliant, before and after pictures are taken on everyone, CPR, first aid and blood borne pathogen certifications are up to date.
Non latex gloves are used and topical anesthetics and pigments are only purchased from USA companies with the highest standards. Universal precuations and aseptic technique are used, all needles are disposable. As important as all these things are, customer service is equally as important.Clients are treated in a respectful and dignified manner and with utmost respect.
When asked what sets Southcoast Dermalgraphics apart from other places Patricia responded, “Precise measurements, applying the pigment that best suits the client’s skin and undertones, knowledge of how to apply topical anesthetics to keep the client comfortable throughout the procedure, creation of designs that compliment the client’s face or breast and a very relaxed atmosphere. We do our best to keep our clients happy.”
As important as these things are, the team also understands that customer service is equally as important. Patricia re-iterated time and again “If you come here, you will be treated with respect, dignity and discretion.” In an effort to accommodate clients and make them comfortable, SouthCoast Dermalgraphics is multi-lingual: English, Spanish and Portuguese is spoken.
The power and marked effect of what SouthCoast Dermalgraphics can not be overstated, and is a constant source of motivation for the staff. Read the powerful anecdote Patricia shares of a client who came in to have her areola fixed: “She was depressed and anxious, but by the end of the procedure we were both in tears of joy and she literally danced in the waiting area, simultaneously laughing and crying. Her self-esteem and confidence had been restored. This brought me back to the conversation I had with my aunt that inspired it all.”
The team shared story after story of similar experiences like the stroke victims or arthritis sufferers who can no longer apply makeup and get permanent eyebrows or lipstick, a person with a scar on the lip that gets colored to be the same hue as the surrounding tissue, the girl who is active in sports and wears lighter clothing revealing scars or blemishes, or the man who is balding and gets scalp micropigmentation. You can even enjoy dermalgraphics if you have no ailments or issues, and enjoy all the services including one of the hottest trends, the Elleebana One Shot Lash Lift which in the blink of an eye, allows for “…luscious, lifted lashes that will last for weeks.”
For many, dermalgraphics is an immediate life-changing experience. Now you see why permanent make-up is such a fast-growing part of the health and beauty industry. You can read more, powerful testimonials at the bottom of this article and, of course, across their social media accounts.
The very informative website has some dramatic before & afters, information on their safety polices and equipment, a full list of their many services, and a page for their news and special discounts – like the “Sisters Discount” they are running through May 31: 20% discount to sisters willing to sign a photo release form and allow them to use their before and after photos on their website and social media accounts. In addition, they have a robust referral program whereby referring a friend gets you $25 off your next procedure.
If you no longer want to imagine what it would be like to have immediate dramatic effects that that micropigmentation can offer, then call SouthCoast Dermalgrpahics today or better yet pick up the phone and schedule a consultation with Patricia and meet Sonia, then you will you see why they are in so demand – professional, warm, and accommodating – that’s what happens when you do something you’re passionate about!
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Testimonials:
Hi! My name is Jessica Blanchard & I recently got my eyebrows microbladed at Southcoast Dermalgraphics and I am absolutely obsessed and in love with my outcome! I was so nervous and hesitant on getting them done because let’s be real it’s semi permanent and it’s on your face!! But I have absolutely no regrets doing this!
Pat & Sonia did an absolutely amazing job, they were both very professional, clean & helped ease my nerves during it all! They made sure every hair and line was even and perfect and always made sure I was happy with everything they did before the process started. I highly highly recommend going to visit them for your microblading and any other permanent makeup! You will not be disappointed! I can’t wait to go back for my touch up & cant wait till they are fully healed! Thank you so much Pat & Sonia! I am finally happy and in love with my eyebrows:) -Jessica B.
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I’m writing you to let you know about my experience at Southcoast Demographics.
It was a pleasure to meet Patricia and Sonia. They are both professional and very knowledgeable about dermographics. The facility is very inviting and clean. The women made me feel at home. They explained the procedure step by step and were very patient. The procedure was a two step treatment that last about two hours each time. It was virtually painless.
My sister and I had very thin eyebrows. I use to shade my eyebrows in everyday just to make them noticeable. Thanks to Patricia and Sonia I no longer have to shape and color my eyebrows in. My eyebrows came out fabulous and nstural looking. We are very happy with the results. I would recommend Dermographics to everyone. -Johanna C.
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SouthCoast Dermalgraphics
192 South Main Street
Acushnet, MA
Phone: (508) 817-7026
Facebook: facebook.com/SouthcoastDermalgraphics
Website: southcoastdermalgraphics.com/
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150 star-studded teams of all ages will take court for first Northeast 3×3 Basketball Federation tourney, Aug. 4-6 at Burgo courts
By Jonathan Comey
The Greater New Bedford area has long had a love affair with the humble game of basketball.
From Fall River to Wareham, high school gyms and college arenas have been the place for boys and girls to chase their hoop dreams — large and small.
Now there’s a new player on the court, one that shapes up to be a signature event on the local basketball scene: the inaugural Northeast 3×3 Basketball Federation summer tournament, Aug. 4-6 at Burgo Basketball Association courts in Dartmouth.
“I’m extremely excited to be part of this event,” said former New Bedford High star Marques Houtman, who played over 10 years professionally overseas and for the Cape Verdean National Team and is one of the organizers. “Man to man, in your face, show and prove. I’m happy something this big is coming to my hometown area.”
The outdoor tournament is expected to feature 150 teams and 600 players during a three-day weekend family-friendly festival. There are competitive divisions open for players of both genders; as young as nine years old all the way through to an age 30-plus ‘Legends’ division.
For spectators, in addition to a whole lot of good basketball being played by what will be familiar names and up-and-comers, there is a dunk contest (expect some vicious jams from one entrant, Mike Kaufman) and a four-point shooting contest that takes long range shooting to a new level.
Check out the NE3x3 “hype video” to get a sense of what’s going to be happening in Dartmouth.
Sponsored by adidas and scheduled for the same weekend as the legendary Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford, it’s a great companion event: hoops by day, celebration by night.
The area’s “who’s who” of basketball leadership are on board with this event and the Northeast 3×3 Basketball Federation: Steve Burgo (Burgo Basketball), Manny DeBrito (A’s Before J’s), Bill Shea (Southcoast 3on3 founder) and Houtman all have leadership roles.
“It’s not often organizations get together to do something of this magnitude,” said DeBrito. “I’m excited for the collaboration and I know this is just the first of many.”
It’s led by Zach Rocha, a New Bedford High grad who has been the driving force behind the Sidekick Sports Academy since 2012. A believer in the power of sports to inspire and unite, he sees 3×3 hoops as the future.
“By working together, the greatest things can be achieved,” Rocha said. “I think this tournament will be an annual showcase event, and the leaders involved are what will drive its success.”
According to an International Olympic Committee study, 3×3 Basketball is the fastest growing urban sport in the world, and FIBA, the sport’s international governing body, wants 3×3 to be its own stand-alone Olympic sport. This past winter, the Junior NBA launched a 3v3 initiative within its curriculum.
The Northeast 3×3 rules are simple, and lead to exciting, action-packed basketball. The games are halfcourt, with 3- and 4-point zones. At the August tournament, every team that signs up is guaranteed to play at least three games
Rocha, whom is also the co-founder and executive director of Sidekick Sports Academy, has seen the global rise of 3×3 basketball (also known as 3v3 or 3-on-3) internationally and can’t wait to see it become a part of the SouthCoast sports fabric.
“Our leadership team has made successful careers out of providing fun education and family-friendly entertainment opportunities through sports,” Rocha said.
Registration for the Northeast 3×3 Basketball Federation can be found online at ne3x3hoop.com. There are early-bird deadlines of May 1 ($150/team), June 1 ($175/team) and July 15 ($200/team).
Prizes for winning teams include customized adidas James Harden Volume 1 shoes, designed by Sidekick Illustrations’ Ethan Weinstein.
What is more magical at relieving tension or stress than a massage? Are there people who wouldn’t want one every single day for life? Whether a shoulder rub, a full body massage, attention to a tender or sore area or one of my personal favorites, the hand massage, a massage is very effective at sloughing off the hard work and stress of a day.
While asking friends and family to give you a massage is always available, there is no substitute for a trained, professional massage. Besides, after you’ve gotten a decent number of massages, you have to return the favor – which defeats the purpose of getting one – when you want to just lie there stunned into relaxation and happiness.
Most people think that massages are simply too expensive, so they don’t even consider them – which is fair since the number of spas offering them has grown exponentially these past few years. So you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that you don’t need to wait weeks for an appointment and “opportunity” to pay a proverbial arm and leg to get some attention. An affordable, professional, effective massage and relief from stress, pain, fatigue, even insomnia is available right at the Dartmouth Mall: Oriental Relax Center.
Owned and operated by Kevin Li, who has over a decade’s experience doing this very thing, Oriental Relax Center is conveniently located at everyone’s favorite shopping destination. Surprising to many, Kevin has been at the mall for ten of those years!
Specializing in a form of ancient Oriental treatment that target specific pressure points, muscles, and tendons, Kevin and his experienced staff also offer reflexology (applying pressure to hands and feet), accupoint or bodywork which is a form of technique involving manipulative, poking therapy to relax and remove fatigue through improved circulation, breath work, or energy medicine. In addition, depending on your objectives, ailment or need, they may use a fire pot on your feet which is famous for pain relief, invigoration, clearing your cold and what Kevin calls “expelling wind.”
When I asked Kevin to tell me, besides being more affordable than a spa, what other reason or reasons should someone visit, he said “We pride ourselves in making a home atmosphere – we want people to feel like they are in their home and our extended family. Also, we offer all first time clients 20% off!” Certainly great incentive to check them out!
What Kevin and his staff at the Oriental Relax Center specialize in is the bodywork therapy and if you’ve only ever had massages, you will be in for a rather pleasant surprise. As far as I know, Oriental Relaxation Center is the only location in the area to offer this specialized form of therapy.
So, if you could really use a massage to relax, relieve stress or rejuvenate, or because you have a sore or tender area that needs some extra love, or maybe you have need for the healing properties of reflexology, or accupoint, then stop in at the Dartmouth mall and see Kevin. Experience the healing power of what they offer for yourself or for friends or family through a gift card. Once you try them out, see how knowledgeable, attentive, and professional they are and see first hand how special what they do is, you’ll become a regular!
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Oriental Relax Center
Dartmouth Mall,
Dartmouth, MA
Phone: (508) 990-1950
Facebook: facebook.com/Oriental-Relax-Center
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Chances are you or someone you know needs medical supplies or home oxygen. Whether for home use, nursing home, hospice care, or a host of other reasons, nothing is more important than your health and quality of life. Bathroom or daily living aids, diabetic supplies, wound care, ambulatory aids like canes, crutches, walkers, or bariatric equipment, e.g. oxygen tanks, alleviate pain and suffering, and improve our standard of living.
Beyond that, we also need a company that has a large inventory, is attentive to our health requirements, and reliable enough to provide affordable, dependable, service. Customer service needs to be provided by professional, courteous and friendly individuals. A staff that prioritizes the human side of things while utilizing the best technology.
One such company that has been doing these exact things for patients and professional healthcare providers in a superlative manner since 1950 is Enos Home Oxygen & Medical Supply, Inc. While the family operated and owned company has been around for three generations, they have been at their 35 Welby Road, New Bedford location for 12 years now.
Enos Home Medical has become synonymous with CPAP therapy to treat sleep apnea – a very serious condition that adversely affects the quality of life for millions of Americans. The condition that is caused by a narrowing of the airway and creates pauses in ones breathing while sleeping is more common…and more dangerous, than people think. Because of this the body struggles to get air – usually resulting in snoring, If left untreated, one may stop breathing momentarily up to hundreds of times per night resulting in a serious decrease in the body, especially the brain’s need for oxygen.
The dangers of sleep apnea run a gamut of serious ailments from hypertension, stroke, heart attack, diabetes, worsening of ADHD, depression, headaches and more. This lack of a good night’s sleep also leads to poor daily performance of personal and business activities, including dangerous ones like driving a car.
How sleep apnea is addressed is through CPAP therapy which consists of a machine and a mask, provides the oxygen your body is starving for.
Though known for CPAP therapy, it is a very small aspect of the business comprising approximately 10-15% of what they do. It is one area of focus, but they are much, much more, i.e. supplying oxygen, DME, diapers, wound care, nursing home supply, hospice equipment services, seat lifts, diabetic shoes, stockings, home mods, breast pumps, etc.
Dick Enos’ inspiration for starting the company 67 years ago while he was a police officer for the New Bedford Police Department. He would often ride along in the ambulance and during one trip he noticed a need for home oxygen therapy for the community. Always the the hard worker, he thought to start a business as a side job – he immediately attended school and became one of the Bay State’s very first Respiratory Therapists. He founded Enos Home Medical to focus on making something available to people who really needed it.
His son Richard “Jay” Enos, went to school to become a nurse to get a better medical background before joining the business and running it for 30 years. Adding the nursing element allowed Richard to compliment his dad’s focus by providing the best possible patient care to the residents of the greater New Bedford area.
Current President Jon Enos’ grew up working in the business and at one point or another was doing just about every job or duty, dirty or otherwise – from mopping floors and cleaning the equipment, to confirming order slips and delivering equipment as soon as he could drive.
Wanting to grow on his predecessors’ philosophies he decided to attend business school. After graduating in 2003, Jon complimented his grandfather’s and father’s contributions by adding a more strategic approach to the growth of the business, bringing the total of employees from 30 to 100 strong across three states!
Over the years the business expanded their lines past the respiratory ones that Enos Home Medical became well-known for, the afore-mentioned Oxygen, DME, diapers, wound care, nursing home supply, hospice equipment services, seat lifts, diabetic shoes, stockings, home mods, breast pumps, etc.
The staff is comprised of RNs, CRTs, RRTs, LPNs – all chosen with the same same high standards that the family has kept for decades. Each is chosen for their experience, warmth, professionalism and passion.
One of those passionate employees is RN, BSN Melissa Vuolo who joined the team because she wanted to make a difference in patients’ lives in a home care setting. Being able to assist patients to remain in their homes and as a functioning member of society was important to her. “I did not want any of their conditions to prevent them from their normal daily activities. You always need to remember to treat every patient as if they were your family member, and the care you provide is the care you would want your family to receive. This is something that I am able to accomplish while working with Enos Home Medical because the patient care is always put first. It is all the small moments that make a difference and you realize how much you are helping someone.”
If you are looking for a company that has established itself for its commitment to patient care, professionalism, affordability and dependability, few have the solid reputation that Enos Home Medical, has built over 67 years. With a staff that is available on site 6 days a week, 10 hours a day, and real therapists on call 24/7 for consults or emergency service, you’ll have your most important medical needs adequately met.
Best of all, Enos Home Medical understands that some medical conditions have made people less mobile and travel to a medical supply shop can be a daunting challenge: Enos Home Medical will come to your home, school, nursing home, or business and complete any and all new equipment setups!
With daily delivery service provided for Massachusetts, Rhode Island Connecticut you never have to wait long for your much needed supplies or service. Find out why Enos Home Oxygen & Medical Supply, Inc. has been around for almost seven decades and will be around for at least another seven!
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Enos Home Oxygen & Medical Supply, Inc.
35 Welby Road
New Bedford, Massachusetts
Phone: (508) 992.2146 or Toll Free: 1.800.473.4669
Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Website: enoshomemedical.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/EnosHomeMedical/
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All children should grow up in a safe, nurturing home. Childhood has a marked, determined effect on one’s personality and quality of life. Since most of us end up having children of our own, we typically model many aspects of our own parents’ rearing skills – they serve as a mindful reference for when we take the role of parent.
Sadly, the number of children in foster care, seeking that safe, nurturing and stable home is alarming. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services June 2016 AFCARS report, 427,910 children were in foster care. This is a truly sad human story that typically flies under many people’s radar yet is an important one that impacts our very own neighborhoods.
Foster parenting is a way to provide children with care, love and support while they are not able to be with their parents. A way to not only positively impact a child’s life, but your own, for foster parenting can be a rewarding experience. Beyond that, your influence on the child’s life will eventually affect their role as a future parent, so indirectly that impact is generational.
Started in the early 1850s by Charles Loring Brace, foster parenting has been pulling homeless or neglected children off the streets of America and improving the quality of life for both children and new foster parents alike. In greater New Bedford, Kennedy-Donovan Center’s Foster Care and Family Services Program has been serving the region since the early 1980s.
The team of dedicated professionals ensures that the children and parents are not only matched but provides all the information, support, and assistance every step of the way through the process and after.
Aubrey Macfarlane-President/CEO and Eileen Dugas, Program Director of Foster Care and Family Services, are two impassioned individuals who are driven to find homes for the many children under their care and provide comprehensive resources for interested parents.
Together they administer three foster care programs:
Each of these programs has the support of a social worker and clinical coordinator. All social workers/case workers are licensed Social Workers and/or have a Bachelor’s Degree, many are enrolled in Master’s Degree Programs. The Clinical Coordinator at Kennedy-Donovan Center’s Foster Care and Family Services Program is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and the mentors have varied experience working with youth and young adults in the community.
Children in Complex Medical Foster Care have additional services in the foster home such as visits by a nurse and medical supports. Transitional age youth have the additional assistance of mentors to support the development of independent living skills.
Program Director, Eileen Dugas shared her inspiration, “I was a foster parent for several years. While I was a foster parent and providing care for children, I felt there was opportunity to have even more engagement with children involved with child protective services. This led to a career change from early childhood education to social work. I began my career in foster care as a social worker prior to advancing to the program director position. As a foster parent, I was able to support and guide the children who were a part of my family until they could be reunified. As a social worker and program director, there is opportunity to impact many children’s lives.”
Understanding that the process of becoming a foster parent – in spite of its rewards – can be one that requires significant adjustment, Kennedy-Donovan Center offers each foster parent 14 days of paid respite. This allows foster parents some time for self-care, vacations, and more. Foster parents are provided with extensive opportunities for support and training, have access to 24-hour assistance and become the greatest advocates and support system for the children they welcome into their home.
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, you can not only contact the wonderful professionals at the Kennedy Donovan Center straight away, but you can attend an informational session – the next is held on April 18th from 11:00am – 12:00pm and 6:00pm – 7:00pm at 385 County St, New Bedford.
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Kennedy-Donovan Center
385 County Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: (508) 997-5875
EMail: fostercare@kdc.org
Website: kdc.org/services/foster-care-family-services/
Facebook: facebook.com/KennedyDonovanCenter
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Unhappy or frustrated with your current professional cleaning crew? Don’t have one, but like the idea of having professionals come into your place of business, school or corporate establishment and keeping it “spic and span”? Nothing speaks to potential customers more than attention to details and a clean environment makes a great first impression. For corporations, a clean building shows your employees that you go the extra mile to make sure that the offices are clean, pollen and allergens are significantly reduced or eliminated, and you have them in mind.
There is an ocean of business to choose from, making it difficult to arrange services like this. Who do you trust? Who has experience and a good reputation? What are people saying on social media or word-of-mouth? Who offers a competitive price and is affordable?
Clean Right Cleaning Solutions of 268 Mill Road in Fairhaven, has been churning out superlative service for over approaching two decades. A full service operation, they offer janitorial programs for all types of establishments and even specialty jobs, like stripping and waxing floors, large pane window cleaning, deep cleaning carpets, floors and windows, and more. A one-stop shop for your cleaning needs!
Started 15 years ago by lifelong Fairhaven resident, Jeff Silveira has been working in the cleaning industry since 1996. He’s cleaned almost every kind of mess you can imagine and believe it or not, enjoys doing what many of us don’t! “I trained and got my start with a franchise and realized the potential to offer a better service on my own. I always had a strong desire to own my own business while making an impact on the local level. I’m passionate about what I do. I rotate on most jobs which gives me the chance to monitor our work and client needs.”
Yes, Jeff is not only the owner and president of the Clean Right, but spends his time in the proverbial trenches. He is not only likely to be the one you’ll talk to when you call, but he is involved at all levels: he’s active in the field and on-site to ensure that the quality of work is par excellence.
This high standard is applied to all his employees and he rigorously vets each potential employee to make sure they fit in with his vision, work ethic, and mission. The Clean Right Cleaning Solutions team is very responsive to customers’ needs and encourage as much feedback as possible from customers so as to constantly strive for perfection.
Jeff stays on top of the industry by attending trade events and training. This way he has the most modern, efficient equipment and non-toxic chemicals on the market. He’s thoroughly dedicated to his business and customer satisfaction via providing the region’s best service. It’s not because you can simply, pick up the phone and hire someone else – there are plenty of competitive businesses in the area – but, because Jeff has immense pride in what he does.
His constant inspiration is his family: wife Audri and two children who occupy his time when he’s not working. It’s constant fuel for what he does and the how he attends to his business. “I’m a local business owner who’s dedicated to the job. I’m able to support my family and the families of those who work for me. I have two children that serve as my daily inspiration. My daughter Willow has autism and her needs require a great amount of support — it’s truly a family effort, and having a business that supports her while providing a quality service to the community offers great peace of mind.”
He’s hard-working family man that simply wants to to the best job he can and make his family proud. That is superb motivation to spur on any business and speaks volumes about his character.
If you are a business manager or owner, or someone in an administrative position who wants to benefit from the world-class services that Jeff and his expert staff provide, you can get a no obligation quote by phone or even online. Clean Right services New Bedford, Fall River, Fairhaven, Marion, Mattapoisett, Dartmouth, Rochester, Wareham, Taunton, and Rhode Island.One interaction with Jeff will demonstrate the type of person he is and by inference the business that he runs. In addition, you’ll see how competitive his prices are in comparison to other similar businesses.
You’ve nothing to lose except a lot of dirt, pollen, and dust!
Photo by Peter Vanderwarker.
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Clean Right Cleaning Solutions
268 Mill Road
Fairhaven, Massachusetts
Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:30pm
Phone: (508) 994-2412
Email: info@cleanrightsouthcoast.com
Website: cleanrightsouthcoast.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/cleanrightsouthcoast/
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Doctors Stanley Walsh Jr., DDS FAGD, Christopher L. Marco, DMD, and Aaron C. Campini, DMD.
Brooklawn Dental Health Center located at 559 Ashley Boulevard has been taking care of all of greater New Bedford’s dental needs since 1961. From general dental care like check-ups, to a child’s first visit, restorative and cosmetic procedures, as well as preventative ones.
Doctors Stanley Walsh Jr., DDS FAGD, Christopher L. Marco, DMD, and Aaron C. Campini, DMD are accompanied by a staff of 15 team members – all of whom have been with the doctors and the dental center for at least 9 years. That means a high level of contentment and synergy which translates to a safe, superlative experience from friendly, high level professionals.
Since the staff has been treating patients for four generations that means that these faces are mainly familiar ones. They know you by name, they know your history, and your concerns. The longevity of the dental center speaks volumes for the quality of care they provide. If that doesn’t “speak” loud enough the glowing testimonials will!
When it comes to specific services offered, the state of the art facility offers regular dental care, restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and implants, dentures, cosmetic procedures for teeth whitening and veneers.
Technologies include digital radiography, state of the art sterilization, and intraoral and extraoral digital photography. These all lead to a more comfortable, less invasive experience. One of the very popular pieces of technology that they utilize is the Wand-Painless Injections. Yes, just like it sounds it is an unnoticeable injection of anesthesia. Amazing how far technology has come!
One technology that they are particularly proud of is the use of the Planmeca CAD/CAM 3 D Dentistry device. This is cutting edge stuff. What this technology does is give you same day delivery of a crown or veneer in as little as 2 hours. Digital based means, that instead of having a conventional impression made with its horrible taste and gooey gum tray, you get computer precision in 3D.
How it works is that each tooth is scanned to the finest detail, then the digital image is sent to their state-of-the-art milling unit on site. The final result is a natural looking restoration that beautifully fits the surrounding teeth, making the crown or veneer virtually undetectable. The elimination of impressions, temporaries, second appointments, and waiting for the permanent crown revolutionizes the entire dental experience for both the dentist and the patient.
Brooklawn Dental Health Center takes care of patients in other ways: records are electronic making sharing and pulling up of information speedy, nine treatment rooms (which are computerized and networked), free high speed internet access, and even an iPad for patient education. In addition, they offer digital impressions and crowns done in one visit, whereas prior to this it took two visits.
Because the staff has us in mind and we have busy schedules, they are open as early as 7:00am most days and Wednesday evenings until 7:30pm. You can even request an appointment on their website, Facebook, or email. All those links are provided below. Gone are the days when there were phone call reminders: now they can call, email, text or remind you on social media that your appointment is imminent.
Whether you need regular dental care or have something more serious to take care of, you would be hard pressed to find a more experienced, friendly, dedicated group of professionals than those at Brooklawn Dental. They are accepting new clients, but there is no telling how long that will last. Make an appointment today and get on the path to a healthier new smiling you!
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Brooklawn Dental Health Center
559 Ashley Blvd
New Bedford, MA
Mon: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tue: 7:00am-5:00pm
Wed: 7:00am-7:30pm
Thu: 7:00am-5:00pm
Fri: 7:00am-12:00pm
Phone: (508) 995-5105
Email: brooklawndental@comcast.net
Website: brooklawndentalhealth.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/brooklawndental/
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Does “The suit make a man,” or does “The man make the suit?” Regardless of which side of the fence you fall, there’s something special about a perfectly fitted suit or tuxedo. But when you live on the SouthCoast, where do you go when you need finely tailored clothing for a special event? Where can you find exquisite tailoring, knowledgeable experts, and fair prices on fine clothing?
Answer: At the “biggest little tux shop in New England,” Main Street Formals, at 320 Main Street in Acushnet! Owned and operated by Robert and Kathleen Brunelle, Main Street Formals has been keeping locals looking their best for over 30 years. The proud recipient of the New Bedford Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year Award in 2013, Main Street Formals has a well-earned reputation for the superlative service they offer to brides, grooms, and prom-goers across the region. Their stellar reputation within the community validates this. With phenomenal ratings across several review platforms that consistently remark on the knowledge, friendliness and professionalism of the staff, there is no better validation for what they do.
“It was pretty thrilling when Adam Larson of MTV Road Rules came all the way from California to have us dress him and his guys for his destination wedding,” said Robert. “Every wedding has a joker in it, and Adam’s was no exception, with his father-in-law going to great lengths to get a surprise reaction out of the bride by purchasing two identical suits–one to wear for the ceremony, and one we cut into shorts and short sleeves for the tropical reception!”
Often the moments are touching as well. “One of the sweetest exchanges was when our UPS driver came in with his bride to book their wedding menswear. The bride was so moved by the site of her groom dressed in his wedding tuxedo, she began to weep, with the groom then reduced to tears of joy shortly after.”
These sort of experiences are what gets Robert and his staff out of bed, fueled and excited to open up and greet the first clients of the day. “It is not every day that we get such a “say yes to the ‘tux’ ” moment, but when we do, it reminds us that at the end of the day, working in the wedding industry is really all about love, and we are grateful to be a part of that.”
If you need to look sharp for a special occasion, need some alterations, or want to be taken care of by amazing professionals who value the relationship, you don’t need to go to the “big city.” One of the region’s top attire shops is right in our backyard.
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Main Street Formals
20 Main Street
Acushnet, Massachusetts
Phone: (508) 995-0200
EMail: info@mainstreetformals.com
Website: mainstreetformals.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/MainStreetFormals/
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