Did you know that the YWCA is the world’s largest and oldest women’s organization in the United States? Or that they are no longer an exercise facility? That all YWCAs legally changed their name to only the letters YWCA? There are a lot of misconceptions about the services available to the community at the YWCA or what it is exactly they do. You are about to be pleasantly surprised.

For example, did you know that in spite of their name, the YWCA does not exclusively serve women? That they are often incorrectly confused with the YMCA and what they do? Or that their services include social activism, empowering women through programs and workshops, financial literacy, provide leadership development opportunities, and even expend considerable effort towards ending racism in the community through racial justice programs and workshops?

This is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Certainly if you are a woman, you will find no better community outreach organization that offers so many services in one place – a place that will inspire, motivate, and educate you in pursuit of your business, social, and personal goals.

The Southeastern MA Association, which has had its main administrative office at 20 South Sixth Street since 1996, is well aware of the many misconceptions and how it has hampered their ability to reach those who are best suited to benefit from what they offer.

Current Executive Director and lifelong New Bedford resident, Gail Fortes, who has been with the organization since 1994 is determined to change that in an active way. Ms. Fortes is as much a part of the YWCA as the YWCA is part of New Bedford. She began as a direct care program staff person in the child care program and was promoted to Executive Director 10 years ago. Her passion for the city and the organization shows in the direction the YWCA has been taken and the positive impact it has had on the city.

“I love our YWCA Mission of eliminating racism and empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. I also love empowering and motivating girls and young women. Leadership development is an important piece of our YWCA work, as we are working to develop future community leaders. We ensure that all our programs are Mission-based and are culturally competent and inclusive of all. Our Mission completely inspires me to come to work every day.”

Gail is also keeping one eye on the future and where the YWCA is going. The organization is in the final stages of a $4 million capital campaign to build a 7,000 square foot addition to our administrative office to house their YWKids School Age Child Care Program and Another Women’s Place residential women’s program. They are hoping to break ground in Fall of 2017.

So what types of programs and services does the YWCA offer?

1. Widowed Persons Program: established in 1992, and held at the Dartmouth Council on Aging, this program which is for men and women alike of all ages, is the area’s only series of support groups for anyone who is newly widowed. Through phone support when you need it most and a variety of social activities one can garner better perspective on their loss and its effect.



2. Leading Ladies: Are you 18-30 and interested in social justice, a sense of community, women’s advancement or leadership development opportunities? The Leading Ladies initiative utilizes a variety of group and philanthropic activities to best empower you. Emphasis is placed on the need to create collaborations and partnerships in our community.
3. Racial Justice and the Economic Advancement: With this program the YWCA engages in activities, a number of events, workshops, presentations and study circles. In addition, seminars like “Color of Fear” and “Brown Eyes, Blue Eyes” and workshops like Racial Justice 101, Cultural Competency Training, Unlearning Racism, Understanding White Privilege, Prejudice and Bullying help facilitate better understanding and perspective. The focus is on the impact of racism in the workplace in general and training in cultural competency for service providers and customer relations workers specifically. In addition, the program offers financial literacy training and financial planning workshops for adults and children like Financial Literacy Programs for Girls, Financial Planning 101, Saving for Your Family, Pay Equity Activities for Young Women and Girls, an Investment Club and more.
4. Clothesline Project: Domestic violence against women and girls is an important issue for society and the community. A great way to help address these issues is through a visual medium. This project consists of donning t-shirts that support the cause and visiting host sites to spread awareness.
5. Residential Services: Having housing issues? Need help or training to improve your living situation? You will greatly benefit from this service through aspects like “A Woman’s Place” – a residential facility that provides safe, secure, housing for 8 low income women on their own, age 18 and older, working, going to school or a combination of both.

Beyond these programs and services the YWCA offers health and wellness programs like ENCOREplus – an outreach and community outreach program that has reach almost 20,000 women and men in the service area with English, Spanish and Portuguese presentations on health issues related to women and men. The concentration is on breast and cervical cancer, women’s cardiovascular health, colorectal and prostrate health, smoking cessation, diabetes and nutrition workshops. Services are focused on low-income, uninsured and under-insured women and men over age 40 with continual efforts to reach the elderly at the Councils on Aging in the service area.

Kids are not left out, of course! The YWCA offers a bunch of youth service programs like the after-school YWKids School-Age Childcare Program which it has been offering since 1988, and now located at the Abraham Lincoln Elementary School. Licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education & Care, kids who are between the ages of 5-12 get transportation from their school program sites. Once there they will get access to a curriculum which offers science, physical education, art and literature. Girls Exclusive is a gender-specific program that focuses on education, leadership development, community service, financial literacy, cultural competency, etiquette and home alone and babysitting workshops for girls in grades 4-8.

Finally, the teen advisory group called Mayor’s Youth Council meets to provide to the mayor on issues of concern to their age group, attend civic functions, meet with representatives of city government to get and give perspective on community activities.

As you can see, while the YWCA may at one time simply was an exercise facility, its mission and impact have gone far beyond health and fitness and entrenched itself into important social justice issues. Thousands of people have had their lives positively impacted by the outreach programs that the YWCA promotes. We all get hit by life’s curve balls now and then and it’s nice to know that there is someone on your side when you need it most. In addition, if you find social issues to have moved you to action, the YWCA is a great vehicle to pair your ideals with.

With that in mind, the YWCA is always seeking more than just members, but always eager to get assistance from potential donors and volunteers.

Want to be a part of the YWCAs mission? Have questions you would like answered? Want to be a donor, volunteer, member or participate in the fantastic programs offered?

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YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts
20 South Sixth Street
New Bedford, MA

Phone: (508) 999-3255
Email: info@ywcasema.org
Website: ywcasema.org/
Facebook: facebook.com/ywcasema
Twitter twitter.com/ywcasema

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Can you imagine life unconnected? A day without a smartphone, laptop or tablet? No internet whatsoever? Being connected is the way of the world in this day and era and it’s uncommon for hours to pass without checking in. We keep one eye on our personal life, family and friends and the other on business aspects like important emails, queries from customers and even faxes. Of course, we also look towards the internet for our entertainment – pictures of celebrities, funny cat videos, and downloading the latest hit from our favorite musical artists.

The number of people using tablets, phones and computers has grown exponentially and manufacturers are barely keeping up in spite of full steam ahead production schedules. Did you know that with smartphones alone we have crossed the 2 billion mark? And that by 2019 it is expected to more than double and reach 5 billion? There are more phones in China than there are Americans!

No one enjoys being disconnected from this flow or having something interferes with the quality of our interaction. A dying or dead battery is a real bummer. A cracked screen, a key that won’t work, or a charging port that has fried and gone south is a genuine frustration. A frustration that can disrupt a night of plans with friends, a meetup with family or even money if that disruption is an important one from a customer.

So, when we take a technological hit – and we all do and we all will, it’s inevitable – we want that downtime to be as short as possible and equally as important, as affordable as possible. In addition, we want someone that can be trusted not to fluff or inflate the real issue as a way to charge more money, knowing full well that we don’t have a choice but to have it fixed. What happens with auto mechanics happens in the tech repair industry, because when you don’t full understand how something works, it’s easy to be duped.

Fast Phone Fix is the go to place for those of us at New Bedford Guide and we are all very tech “heavy” and rely on our devices to function and perform. Though the store only recently opened – August of this year – owner Altun Bakhshaliyev (who I’ll refer to as Altun for obvious reasons) has been around smart devices since he was young. He was always tinkering, taking apart devices and repairing them. It’s just something he loves to do and the reason why he pursued a career in the industry, graduating from the Computer Systems Institute in Boston.

After a foray with the Apple Store in Boston, he moved to the South Coast and began to work at a chain store in Dartmouth. While there he saw time and again something that bothered him: many of the customers were university students who couldn’t afford the rates being charged because they were on a very limited budget.

Having to see people turn around and leave without the repair didn’t sit well with him. He always wanted to work for himself and own his own business, and knew that if he did so, he wouldn’t have to charge the exorbitant rates and those people – not just university students, but anyone – would be able to afford the fix.

So, opening up his shop, with the assistance of good friend Seimur Hasanov, he put these fixes within an reach of those of us in greater New Bedford. Usually mom and pop stores are squashed by chain stores, but in this case, it birthed one!

So, when Altun was scouting for a location, he wanted to be close to UMass for the aforementioned reasons. He wanted to help the young crowd, but knew he couldn’t directly compete with the big chain store. So, he decided on downtown New Bedford, near the community college which also enabled him to make his dream of owning a business a reality.

Altun and Seimur fix all kinds of phones, laptops and tablets and best of all most repairs can be done in minutes without you even leaving. For that very reason, he has computers for guests to use while they wait. “It takes between 10 minutes and an hour. We use original parts and after fixing we give you six month warranty and also we sell cheap and qualitative phone accessories like cases, screen protectors and other things.” elaborated Altun.

If you are in a rush or have other things to do and the repair is a longer wait, you can simply drop of the phone, go about your business and guess what? Altun or Seimur will deliver your device to your home or office later in the day. Crazy, right?

With Fast Phone Fix you find two guys who can’t imagine doing anything else – they love the internet, their phones, laptops and tablets like we all do. They know what it’s like to have downtime and how much we rely on affordable, quick repairs. They get a genuine kick out of the responses from satisfied customers – the look on people’s faces when one of them steps out to feed a waiting customer’s meter is pretty priceless. Always good for a chuckle.

If you need any more incentive to jump ship from that chain store where you are a number, not a name, Altun offers a free case or screen protector with any repair. And because it was the university students that inspired his move into his own business, he offers all students a 15% discount. That’s all the time. In addition, they also sell used, unlocked phones – worry-free since they come with a one year warranty.

Maybe you are sick of paying an arm and a leg to repair your phone or computer and looking for something more affordable. Perhaps you want to walk into a store where the same person is behind the counter and he actually knows your name. How about customer service from people who are serving you because it’s what they love to do, instead of what they have to do? Altun and Seimur will turn your technological nightmares into a positive experience. You’ll get quick, friendly and affordable service each and every time. It’s a no-brainer.

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Fast Phone Fix
283 Union Street
New Bedford, MA

Mon-Sat: 9:00am-10:00pm
Sun: 9:00am-8:00pm

Phone: (774) 707-5366
Email: ideliveryfix@gmail.com
Website: ideliveryfix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fixbrokenphones/

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Are you at a crossroads in choosing a career path? Not sure if you want to take up a trade, attend a technical school, or university? Not necessarily keen on commuting or relocating to somewhere in central or western Massachusetts? Can’t find something that interests you at local universities?

Consider a career in a perpetually growing field: healthcare. Perhaps you’ve already considered that, but unsure where to start. Are there professional facilities close by that offer study in healthcare and in a number of fields?

The answer is a resounding “yes!” Coastal Career Academy, a private occupational school located in both New Bedford and Fall River (soon to be administering courses for the Cape & Islands) offers certification and programs in a large variety of healthcare fields. Something they have been doing since they received Professional Licensure in 1999!

Started in a single classroom in New Bedford to meet the demands of individuals pursuing a career in healthcare, word spread quickly and the facility and program offerings expanded. Now RN and CEO Deb Gomes is continuing to offer the opportunity for locals to obtain a quality education that is affordable.

Inspiration for Deb came from a career as a nurse which began in 1986. While serving in hospitals along the South Coast, she realized that there was a genuine need for skilled front line workers, whether it was in a reception role, triage or laboratory. In Deb’s words “The first person we all meet when we enter a doctor’s office or health clinic can make a significant difference in our experience. Typically, patients do not choose to visit a doctor. They are sick, injured, or have a particular concern in their health. With that in mind, I wanted to make a difference in the patient experience in our area, even if it was a small one.”

Since nurses are being replaced by Medical Assistants because of the cost savings to medical practices, it is extremely important that these assistants are knowledgeable about the practice that they work in. And this is where Coastal Career Academy comes into the picture.

Deb, who has been teaching since 1993, started Coastal Career Academy in 1997 before becoming licensed by the Department of Education in 1999. They are now licensed by DPL and their Nursing Assistant program is Department of Public Health approved.

Deb and the staff at Coastal Career Academy bring decades of experience as healthcare providers and teaching to bear. There are several nurses on staff, as well as experienced Phlebotomists, Paramedics, and lab technicians. All want you to flourish in the classroom – that means you will also flourish in your new job. They are dedicated to provide you with all the tools and skills that you need to excel and prosper in the healthcare field. When that happens you tell people where you were certified – what better word of mouth is there?!

Want to attend Coastal Career Academy but concerned about the financial aspect? Administrative costs are low, so tuition reflects that. In addition, the staff help you with financing. Best of all, when you complete your program, Coastal Career Academy will help you with job placement – something that they have a 98% success rate with.

So, what specific courses does the academy offer? Certification as a Nurse Assistant, Medical Assistant, Medical Billing and Coding, Office Administration, E.K.G. Technician, Home Health Aid, C.P.R., Cardio-Phlebotomy, and even English for Speakers of Other Languages, Adult Basic Education.

Are you a single parent who is concerned about daycare for your child or children? There is On-Site Daycare available.

Sound exciting to you?, but want to know even more You can contact the academy using the phone number or links below or read/print out the Coastal Career Academy brochure. If you are really gung-ho, you can even enroll online.

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Coastal Career Academy
26 South Water Street
New Bedford, MA

288 Plymouth Ave., Suite 2
Fall River, MA 02721

Phone: (508) 536-5366
Fax: 508-762-1470
Email: coastalcareer@comcast.net
Website: coastalcareeracademy.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/coastalcareer/

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There are a number of organizations, landmarks and businesses that are quintessential New Bedford. Nothing says “New Bedford” more than these establishments and no one who has grown up in the city is unaware of their presence. It’s hard to think of our city without them and simply saying New Bedford is enough to evoke their images.

One of these institutes that has been around since the 80s is the artist owned and operated community art center, Gallery X, originally started as the 2nd St. Art Exchange. The idea of a few students from the Swain School of Design and a bunch of local artists in the late 80s, they have been showcasing local talent ever since.

Initially, they rented a storefront on Spring Street sandwiched between the former YWCA and the Zeiterion, thus the “X” in their moniker. This small spot was a popular spot and before long attracted more than artists, but local poets, actors, musicians, even playwrights. These folks were deeply connected with the community so offered a number of children’s art programs and workshops. Gallery X became incorporated in 1990, and began to grow at a rapid rate. One of the contributing factor to their growth was that they made the artistry easily accessible by charging the low, low price of free. Art collectors rejoice!

To accommodate this growth, the gallery relocated to the 150 seat former 1855 First Universalist Church in 1995, where they still are today. In 1998, they purchased the building and began renovations including painting the structure, restoring the steeple, painting and west side and facade. They’ve done such a spectacular job that in 2003, they were given WHALE’s honorary Sarah H. Delano award.

What attracts so many artists to have their creations featured at the site, is the passion behind the current owners and also artists, Charles A. and Sue Hauck.

They are dedicated to the promotion of all the arts in the community the grew up in and love so dearly. They offer a unique space to display one’s work and even for a wedding, reception or other special occasion for that matter. Whether you have paintings or sculpture to show off, want to use the stage for your music or band, play, comedy act, musical, or theater group there’s no better, more affordable way with a venue of this size. All mediums and genres are embraced.

In addition, rubbing shoulders with your peers and mentors means you are not only learning to refine your technical ability, curate a show, or hang the artwork, but you are perpetually being inspired and motivated.

For the fan of the arts or collector, the constant and consistent display of an astounding variety of new artists and their work, means you are always stimulated and sated. Supporting Gallery X with visits or membership is supporting the area’s artists – a large number of residents considering that the city has an above the state average of them.

If you have a public or private event and want to rent the gallery you will find all the information <a href="http://galleryx.jimdo.com/rentals/"here including rates, information on discounts for non-profit organizations or community group, the service kitchen, images of what the spots look like, and any other bits.

Are you an artist or an art collector interested in membership? How to become a member, what is needed as well as what is required, the fees and more can be found here

The best way to see what Gallery X offers is to stop in when they are hosting or any other time. Start to mingle with other artists, meet Sue or Charles and have all your questions answered. Another fantastic opportunity will their celebration with music, the arts, history and the culture of the New Bedford area, the Upper William Street Festival. This annual festival will take place on Saturday, September 24, from 12:00pm-4:00pm.

The festival will not only give a glimpse inside the gallery but there will be performers in the streets, a farmer’s market, activities for kids, music provided by the Toe Jam Puppet Band, New Bedford Symphony, New Bedford Harbor Sea Chantey Chorus, the Jethros, and the Harpoon Harmonizers. Furthermore, present will be craft makers and a book mobile.

Stop in and see what makes Gallery X, the directors, and the members, so special. It will be infectious, inspiring, and motivational.

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Gallery X
169 William Street
New Bedford, MA

Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 11 am – 3 pm

Phone: (508) 992-2675
Email: GalleryXNB@gmail.com
Website: galleryx.org/
Facebook: facebook.com/GalleryXNewBedford/

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Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center was voted #1 by SouthCoast Today Reader’s Choice Poll for Best Karate School

Considering taking up martial arts for its well-known benefits? Want to get in better shape, but can’t find an exercise regimen that holds your interest? Have you had a physical altercation and now want to learn to defend yourself? How about simply find martial arts intriguing? These days the benefits of taking up martial arts are manifold and we all know someone who has made positive life changes through them.

One of the problems you may encounter once you’ve made the decision, is to choose one out of a dizzying variety, e.g. karate, kung-fu, Krav Maga, boxing, MMA, kickboxing, Kenpo. It doesn’t get any easier when looking around to find a good, quality, reputable instructor who teaches at a clean, modern facility. Where do you start? Ads are ubiquitous and by their nature don’t allay any concerns you may have.

Like most people, you ask around or hear an anecdote from friends or family. People enjoy sharing their positive experiences to anyone who will listen. It’s likely that you have heard the name Lance Soares in those anecdotes. While co-owners Lance Soares and wife Anne Soares only opened the doors of Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center in 2010, they quickly went from old mill complex to brick and mortar stand-alone building in the same year.

Then, they outgrew that space two years ago and moved to their current location in North Dartmouth in August of 2014. However, Lance has been teaching his favorite discipline since 1992!

Passionate, intelligent, caring instructors; credentials

That’s no surprise to anyone who takes class there: the academy is led by passionate, intelligent, caring instructors who are dedicated to sharing the positive impact they have experienced through martial arts with the community. Lance who is also the Director of Training, along with Anne who is also the Director of Student Relations are accompanied by Carolyn Andrade who serves as Assistant Program Director and Assistant Instructor.

What kind of credentials do they have? Mrs. Soares, holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from Bridgewater State University. She has worked with families as the Board Treasurer of Habitat for Humanity and recently started Lab Tales, an organization dedicated to helping animal rescues with fundraising and building awareness about pet adoption. She is professional, caring and compassionate and always finds herself in fields where those traits are pivotal. It’s no wonder she found herself as Director of Student Relations.

Mrs. Andrade, holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth where she graduated Cum Laude as well as Lettering in Field Hockey and Softball. In addition to being a 1st degree black belt in Ed Parker Kenpo she is also a Licensed Social Worker Associate, a Trained Educational Advocate; an advocate for special needs children within the DCF system with numerous school districts and is certified to teach First Aid and CPR though American Heart Association. Before becoming the Assistant Program Director at Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center she worked as Licensed Social Worker for Kennedy-Donovan Center Intensive Foster Care and Support and Stabilization Programs where she implemented Clinical Treatment Plans to stabilize a child in foster care and/or with the biological family to avoid state removal or facilitate reunification of the child from foster care and wrote behavior plans for children in foster care or with DCF involvement.

Lance currently holds the rank of 5th degree Black Belt and the title of Associate Professor of the Arts in Ed Parker’s American Kenpo and holds an instructor certification through the American Kenpo Senior Council (AKSC). The center has the unique distinction to be the first (of only two) martial arts schools in Southeastern Massachusetts, Rhode Island or Connecticut licensed by the Parker family to teach the Ed Parker System of Kenpo.

As a Nationally Registered Paramedic, he currently holds or has held instructor certifications in CPR, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Pediatric Education for Prehospital Professionals and International Trauma Life Support. As a member of the Army National Guard, where he was a Non-Rated Crew Member Medical Flight Instructor, he instructed crew members in external rescue hoist, sling load and night vision goggle operations as well as medical tasks aboard medical evacuation aircraft. He was honorably discharged in 2009 after 10 years of service.

Finally, as a member of New Bedford Emergency Medical Services, in addition to his duties as a staff paramedic, he was also a preceptor to paramedic students doing their ride time with the services. He is more than qualified to instruct not only martial arts, but over a wide variety of disciplines.

Lance’s inspiration comes from when he himself was a child and based in something that drives many kids to the martial arts: he was frequently picked on as a a child. Martial arts is looked at for good reason when it comes to kids in this type of situation – it works. Not necessarily in the ways that people think. While one can and will learn to defend themselves, you quickly learn that there are more valuable traits that are picked up, like self-confidence, honing of social skills, respecting authority and authority figures, increased focus and attention, learning to relax and perform under stressful situations and a whole host of other positives.

Personal development, learning to defend yourself, positive impact

These values helped Lance develop as a martial artist, but more importantly, as a person. He fell in love with the art and developed a deep rooted passion. When he saw kids and adults who were in similar situations or could have benefited from the martial path that he took, it was a no-brainer to share. The mission at Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center is to provide self-defense and positive personal development in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning, and free from negative peer pressure. They are looking to inspire others to success through the living examples at the center – the large number of black belts and higher ranked martial artists that serves as excellent role models.

Contrary to what people think, Kenpo is not just for kids – adults can reap all these benefits as well. It’s an area Mr. Soares elaborated on: “Many times I hear adults tell me, ‘Oh, I’d love to do martial arts, but I’m (you name the excuse) to get started.’ They are intrigued with the notion of practicing the martial arts but are too afraid of embarrassing themselves.

We use a saying at our school,’you don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.’ When I was a beginner, in one of my first classes I learned to do a side kick. I chambered my leg, threw the kick, and because of my poor balance, I fell. I did it over and over with the same result. My teacher at the time told me to go home and practice. I did. Here I am 30 years later, a 5th degree black belt. I guess the point is, if I can do it, anybody can do it. All you have to do is try.’

Like to know more, but not sure where to start? Think that credentials are find and dandy, but want to see with your own eyes or meet the instructors face-to-face? On Saturday September 24, 2016 from 9:00am to 1:00pm Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Family will be hosting an Open House/Buddy Bash for ages 5 through adult.

There will be Introductory Karate classes, magic shows by the Awesome Robb Show, balloon twisting by Casper the Spectacular, face painting, Andy the Armadillo from the Texas Roadhouse and more. As part of this event they will also have a Chinese Auction and the proceeds from the auction will go to benefit Odie’s Place Animal Rescue, a publicly recognized non-profit organization pursuant of IRS Section 501(c)3 in South Dartmouth. They will be collecting gently used towels and blankets to donate to Odie’s Place.

Furthermore, you can read the glowing reviews or watch the demonstration video. If that doesn’t pique your interest, then stop in to this weekend’s Open House/BuddyBash or any old day of the week. Once you see the passion and dedication of Lance and the staff at Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center and the sheer joy that the the kids and adults get under their tutelage, you’ll want to start kicking and punching your way to a new you!

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Lance Soares’ Family Martial Arts Center
331 State Road
Suite D
North Dartmouth, MA

Phone: (774) 992-0797
Email: lsfmac.com/contact/
Website: lsfmac.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/Lance-Soares-Family-Martial-Arts-Center-126345567415460/

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Do you have kids 4-14 years of age that have a passion for soccer? Do they want to learn techniques, tactics and strategies from professionals? Do you want them to participate in a sport where they develop social skills, their competitive juices, and improve their confidence, health and fitness levels?

Mariner Youth Soccer is a non-profit organization run solely by passionate volunteers. Established in 1983, and located at 270 Huttleston Ave, Fairhaven, it is one of the oldest youth soccer organizations on the South Coast and offers a variety of soccer programs for boys and girls between the ages of 4-14.

Mariner Youth Soccer has over 25 acres of fields in use and growing – they are in the process of developing another five acres of land that will hold an additional three full size soccer fields. The primary focus of the league is the development of players skills and a love of the game. Importantly, they provide the appropriate competition levels for children looking to pursue their interest in soccer. They know how to craft a curriculum that challenges the kids, but isn’t overwhelming. Using just such a progression is the finest way to develop the necessary technical and psychological skills in the game.

With travel teams competing in the Spring and Fall season, that means the kids get to enjoy virtually year round play. In addition, they have recently been accepted into the MAPLE league – a club soccer league that represents the best competition in the state. This Fall, Mariner Youth Soccer will have several teams competing in the league. Mariner recreational games are played on Saturday mornings throughout the Fall. Travel games are held on Saturday afternoons, while MAPLE is played on Sundays.

Time is running out to register for the Fall League at Mariner Fields: the deadline is Wednesday, September 21. Sign up now for a stellar soccer league that has been around for decades, possesses a world class staff dedicated to creating a positive experience and lasting memories for children.

To sign up click visit the Mariner Youth Soccer website.

As Summer begins to close, activities and events on the South Coast don’t slow down in rhyme with the season – after short lull, they actually pick up. With the advent of Autumn comes all sorts of celebrations and festivals. One of the region’s most popular is the Fall Festival, Mud Run and 5K Road Race on September 17th hosted by Camp Metacomet at Dartmouth YMCA.

Camp Metacomet is a large 68 acre site that the Dartmouth YMCA hold a number of what they call, day and specialty camps. Which is a way of saying a slot of time set aside for kids to generally have a blast – all the while learning, developing social skills, and building new relationships. It all takes place in the gorgeous backdrop of rolling green fields, hardwood forest and a real-deal working farm.

The Fall Festival, Mud Run & 5K Road Race is in its 11th year at the camp and anyone who has attended knows why it has become so popular and why it has experienced the success it has: the variety of organized, fun activities is led by a friendly staff of professionals who are experts at FUN in the safest way possible. They know full well how to create an atmosphere and environment that is conducive to bringing out the best in themselves and the kids participating. In fact, many of the organizers have grown up through the camp program.

Kids have a natural curiosity that needs to be fed, they want to explore and learn but dislike doing it in a dull manner, they crave social experiences and interactions, but want to do it in a medium where it isn’t forced. By making the focal point the activities, the kids have the proverbial “ice” broken and it’s far easier to relax.

Since everyone is having a complete blast, spirits are higher and the atmosphere is one that makes social interactions effortless – it engenders confidence. The kids will form new friendships and ones that will likely last.

What kind of activities are we talking about? Well, the festival itself is comprised of all the classic carnival game favorites that we loved growing up like ring around the pumpkin stem, balloon darts, face painting, pick your own pumpkin and decorate it, and pumpkin bowling. There will be archery, large inflatable bounce houses, a craft fair with local vendors, hay rides. A Children’s Fashion Show by Folia, Drone Demonstration and Raffle by Rhode Island Drone Services and an exciting Reptile Show by Cold Blooded Reptiles. Finally, the Oxcart will be present selling delicious festival-style food.

Admission to the festival is completely free, however for some of the activities there will be a nominal fee. Tickets for the rides/amusements/games can be purchased on site: 5 tickets for $5 or 25 tickets for $20. Yes, they accept cash and credit cards. 100% of the proceeds from these events benefits the YMCA Annual Campaign. This money allows every child and family the ability to enjoy the YMCA experience regardless of their ability to pay. Scholarship money is given out every year to assist families who would like to register their children for swim lessons, day camp, child care and more. This is a fantastic way for the kids to purge that last bit of summer energy and a super way to put a close on the summer – all the while helping out a great local cause!

Accompanying the Fall Festival will be the 5K Road Race which starts at 9:00am and a Mud Run with obstacles that starts at 10:30am. For the Mud Run participants will be organized into waves by age or family (yes, “big kids” can take part this year) so that there aren’t too many people on the course at once. The road race, of course, can be walked or run. You can compete to win, challenge yourself, or simply take part because it’s a community event or a bonding moment for the family. You simply do not have to an athlete, in world-class shape to complete the course. People of all ages and fitness levels run the race.

The very popular Mud Run will make the kids feel like they are competing on one of the Japanese ninja course television shows. How often does a child get a chance to run, slip, slide and frolic in mud and because they are supposed to? Not only not get in trouble, but encouraged to do so? I’m willing to bet next to never.

The course which is about 1/3 of a mile in length, has challenges and obstacles along the way and a large mud pit which they will have to traverse over by a hanging rope. I guarantee that anyone that participates in the mud run will remember it for a lifetime.

Pre-registration is necessary for both these events and you can easily register online for either or both events.

If you or your children are looking for a fun, family-oriented event jam-packed with activities organized by passionate, dedicated people whose only goal is to ensure that you have a blast and form lasting memories with your kids, then the Dartmouth YMCA’s Fall Festival, Mud Run and 5K Road Race is an event that you will not only want to participate this year, but one where you will want to plan for many years to come.

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Dartmouth YMCA Fall Festival, Mud Run and 5K Road Race

276 Gulf Rd
South Dartmouth, MA 02748
Phone: (508) 993-3361
Email: campmetacomet@ymcasouthcoast.org
Website: ymcasouthcoast.org/Locations/Dartmouth/CampMetacomet
Facebook: facebook.com/CampMetacomet/
Event Page: facebook.com/events/244062149324629/

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If you are like me, you’ve driven by the Surrey Shoppe a thousand times. You’ve also likely wondered what a “Surrey” is and what exactly the Surrey Shoppe sells, offers or does. The Surrey Shoppe has been in the same location for over 50 years – some of us have driven by it starting as kids!

For a small business to be around and succeed for five years is saying something. Ten years? Twenty? FIFTY? An amazing accomplishment that speaks for itself. When the Surrey Shoppe first opened man hadn’t even walked on the moon yet – he was just about to. Beatlemania wasn’t a thing yet. Ali had yet to fight Liston, and Nixon had yet to state that he was not a crook.

The Surrey Shoppe is one of the best kept “secrets” in the city. However, if you have been a patron of the Surrey Shoppe, it’s no secret.

Let’s clear one thing up straight away: a Surrey is an old name for horse-drawn carriage with four wheels and two seats. You know those carriages that pop up in all those vintage 19th century photos? Same culprits. While there IS a Surrey inside the “shoppe,” surreys are not sold there. Proprietor Joel Gonsalves inherited the business from his parents who started it. All are avid history buffs, especially fond of New Bedford’s history. The name of the business and the old-fashioned spelling of shop hearken back to, and pay respect to the history here.

So, no surreys for sale. The name has been clarified. Now, what is the Surrey Shoppe? The short and simple is that the Surrey Shoppe is a large shop that provides a number of services and sold gifts of distinction – I say “sold” in past tense, because after more than 50 years Joel is closing the physical brick & mortar business and going digital and the services he offers will, of course, continue.

Which type of services are we talking about? Own a watch? You can get it engraved, repaired, or the battery replaced. Have jewelry that you want repaired or even designed? Yes, designed. Own precious metals that you want to sell? Need custom printed invitations for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries or any other special occasion? The Surrey Shoppe is the destination for these services which have become a lost art. He even includes special order service, complimentary gift wrapping and delivery. Finally, you may want to sit down for this one: he even does house calls for certain services!

Thus a more accurate way to describe the Surrey Shoppe is to say it is a who not a what. Joel is an integral aspect of the Surrey Shoppe and he can’t be separated. What distinguishes the Surrey Shoppe’s services from larger stores and shops is the person – someone who got his start working along side his parents at the tender age of four years old when Therese and Matt Gonsalves borrowed money from Matt’s life insurance policy to purchase Mary Lou’s Card Shop in 1962.

Matt was a handy woodworker and would create things with Therese at night in the basement of their home and pedal them from the family station wagon on Cape Cod during the day with Joel in tow. Things went so well that they thought that selling these items in their own shop would be worthwhile. Thus the purchase of Mary Lou’s Card Shoppe changing the name to The Surrey Shoppe as the building had formerly been a livery stable. Success was rapid and they quickly outgrew the space.

Land next door was purchased and the current 4,000 square foot shop was built and opened in 1965. Joel would observe and learn the art of salesmanship, home staging (before it was even heard of), and customer service, backed by honesty, integrity, and an unceasing work ethic. Fifty years later he’s doing those exact same things his parents did. Fifty years…for the younger crowd, this would make him a grand master. A Jedi!

Fifty years not only translates into expertise, but trust. He’s been there fifty years, you can bring your most valuable possessions to him and have complete faith that they are in good hands – that they will not only be in safe-keeping, but the results will exceed your expectations because of the sheer amount of knowledge and experience. Fifty years also means Joel knows you. He knows what you prefer, like and enjoy. He knows what he’s done for you in the past and what you’ve mentioned in conversation. He has an uncanny ability to remember all his customers and their history. This is something I have seen first-hand numerous times.

There is no fancy, high-powered computer, no massive file system, there is only Joel’s memory. Contrast this to going to a chain store where you are serviced by a different employee each month, because of the high rate of turnover.

Imagine going to one place for a wedding anniversary and simply stating “I need something for Jane. It’s our 10th anniversary.” or “It’s Bill’s birthday, got anything?” THAT is service you rarely bump into these days. It’s one of the primary reasons Joel has been around so long. When you factor in that Joel’s prices for his services and goods compete or in most cases, more affordable than what you will find at these larger stores, it’s a no-brainer to see what he does and offers. Better service, more affordable prices, and you are called by your name not a number.

This service that Joel provides is something that was commonplace at one time, but has died out sadly enough. This type of service should be the norm, but with the advent of chains and large department stores came high turnover rates and depersonalized service.

If you are a past customer who is concerned about your club cards or gift cards, don’t fret. Joel will honor them all. If you enjoyed the eclectic goods he offered, or a new or potential customer that would like to see them, you will still be able to browse and purchase through a phone call or visit to the links below. On September 28th, Joel will be closing the physical building, so that means some rather larger discounts and deals, upwards of 75% off.

Stop in and touch base, see how you can stay connected if you are a past customer, or how to connect if you have never stopped in before. Send him your email to keep abreast of developments, deals, discounts and other aspects. Maybe you can pry and find out some of the new ideas and ventures Joel has that he will be diving into in the near future. Whether an old or new customer, Joel would love to see your face!

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Have any old, broken, or unwanted jewelry, coins, or flatware made of gold, silver, or platinum to sell? Mention this page and receive cash for your metals PLUS an ADDITIONAL 10% more in regularly priced Surrey Shoppe merchandise or services as a bonus!

For example, bring in $500.00 worth of precious metals in any form between now and September 28. Get paid $500.00 in cash AND receive an additional $50.00 credit to spend on regularly priced merchandise in stock or services in the store while you’re there! Does not apply to previous metal sales. Get in soon as merchandise will go quickly and this offer expires on September 28, 2016 and will have no value after that date.

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The Surrey Shoppe
2161 Acushnet Avenue
New Bedford, Massachusetts
Phone: (508) 995-4773
EMail: surreyshoppe@comcast.net

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm

Facebook: facebook.com/thesurreyshoppe
Website: surreyshoppe.carlsoncraft.com/
Photos:: facebook.com/thesurreyshoppe/photos_stream

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People ask a lot of questions on the New Bedford Guide Facebook page and we get an unbelievable amount of messages in our inbox. Almost daily people will ask us about the best neighborhoods to rent or buy a home, where to get ice cream, best places for a date, who to talk to about noise complaints or potholes, etc.

Two of the most asked questions are “Who can I go to for car repair?” and “Where can I go to get a used car without getting ripped off?” Car salesmen and repair shops aren’t trusted institutions because we’ve all been bilked, ripped off, and overcharged. Often, we hop from one to another.

It’s gotten to the point where we got to friends, or friends of a friend and even then, that can turn out to backfire. No one trusts and advert and when you’ve been burned enough, you learn to rely and trust family or word-of-mouth.

We don’t all have family that do car repairs or work at a dealership. So who do you go to that is reputable, can be trusted to charge the right price and only for the work needed? We’re here to help those who have asked!

One family owned and operated place that has built a reputation on these very things is New Bedford’s own, Paul’s Place at 364 Dartmouth Street. Proprietor and mechanic Paul J. Duarte opened his door more than 20 years ago and have been on Dartmouth Street for the past 16 years.

His son Dillon and close friend Kevin Currin form a solid team with synergistic efficiency and together they have provided a one-stop shop that provides performance upgrades, tire & wheel packages, as well as sell quality used vehicles. They have the tools, knowledge and ability to service all makes and models especially Volkswagen and other European brands.

Paul was always mechanically inclined and growing up he was always working on cars. He would graduate from Greater New Bedford Vocational-Technical High School in 1988, and further his knowledge base by completing a number of education classes offered by various automotive manufacturers, parts companies and industry leaders in order to stay current on trends and innovations in automotive service.

Paul comes from an era where you word was “bond” and your business and your good name were synonymous. That’s why he didn’t come up with a snazzy name for his business – he purposely put his name on the sign flying outside.

“When you come to Paul’s Place you know that you are getting quality service at a reasonable price. And you know that I am going to stand behind the work because my name is on the sign.

As a customer you want to be confident that you are making the right choice buying a car from me or entrusting your vehicle to me and my staff, I want to make that experience easy for you. I don’t ever want a customer to feel as though they made a mistake in choosing to purchase a car from us or have us service their current vehicle.”

Paul couldn’t be more pleased when it comes to his son’s presence in the business. He really had a “This is why I am doing this for a living.” moment when his son first came to work with him. It filled him with a sense of pride to be able to do something he loved for a living and have family involved.

Kevin Currin is extended family and the trio are like proverbial pigs in mud when it comes to car repair and selling the used cars on their lot. Each car is given a thorough going over and anything and everything that can be done to improve the car is undertaken. No shortcuts – Paul feels that word-of-mouth is the best way for his business to grow and every problem-free car sold is the best advertising possible. In fact, the used car aspect has been growing like gangbusters and this September he will be expanding his inventory substantially.

If your car is giving you grief and you need some repairs or want to replace it, give Paul a call. If you want someone trustworthy that won’t charge you an arm and a leg, but will charge a fair and accurate price, Paul’s Place’s twenty plus years speaks volumes.

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Paul’s Place
364 Dartmouth Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am-12:00pm
Sunday: Closed
Appointments Available

Phone: (508) 991-4489
Email: Paulsplace364@gmail.com
Website: paulsplacema.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/pauls.place.752
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Holy Family-Holy Name School is one of the five Catholic Schools in the Greater New Bedford Deanery. A “hidden gem” in a very urban neighborhood, it was established in 1973 when Holy Name School merged with Holy Family School. Since that time, it has provided a safe, loving place where inspired teachers and staff are dedicated to helping children from three years old through Grade 8 reach their academic and social potential as well as become responsible, loving, service-oriented members of society.

In addition, the students can talk to each about their shared faith. They can speak freely and unabashedly about their religion without feeling pressured or making others feel alienated.

This is one aspect of parochial schools that is different from public schools. Vice-Principal, Ralph Tripp, who has been with the school these past six years stated, “Our school isn’t solely about academics. We provide a rigorous education in a Christian-based environment that encourages respect for and value of every person. We celebrate diversity. The family atmosphere in our school is clearly evident the minute you walk in.

It is extended beyond the school and reaches into the lives of all our students. We are here to help them in time of sorrow or need and we are here to celebrate their happiness and success.” This sense of “family” comes from dedicated and vested faculty and staff who do not have “a job”, but rather, “a vocation.” Their passion is all about children. They were born to do what they do. They strive daily to make sure the whole child is educated, nurtured, respected, valued, kept safe, cared for, and loved. All while receiving a top educational experience filled with interactive activities and just plain fun.

Inspiration for educators like this come from a variety of places, but central to them all is the children. For Cecilia Felix, an educator (at HFHN) for 13 years and the principal here for the last 27 years, it was her family background in teaching combined with highly devoted educators that inspired her. “In elementary and high school I witnessed the importance of their vocation to serve children through education. It was a value I keyed into.

Catholic Education is my vocation and it is a way I can model my deep faith to children. How gratifying it is to watch students grow spiritually and academically in an environment that strives to serve others as Jesus did.” Sr. Muriel Lebeau, an educator for over 50 years, summed it up succinctly, “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me.’

What greater ministry is there?”

Holy Family – Holy Name School is a Christ-centered academic community instilling Catholic beliefs and gospel values; nurturing student’s gifts of faith and intellect by surrounding them with a family of faculty, staff, and volunteers whose vocation is to serve.

While the educators at Holy Family-Holy Name School take their faith-based curriculum very seriously, they also understand the value non-academic events have in helping students form relationships. These school functions let them hone their social skills and gives them a sense of community. There is always some type of special event going on like our annual Cabaret to benefit academic resource needs. Every April, we have a Penny Sale and host a “Spring Fling” which is a night of fun, dancing, raffles, and more. Here is the detail for a Golf Tournament and a form for those interested in hosting a crafting table at the upcoming HFHN Holiday Fair.

These fun occasions have helped us purchase 90 Google Chromebooks for our classrooms. With future funds we hope to add more iPads for use in the younger grades.

In May, we hold an Educational Fair with a musical performance by Junior Choir students followed by classroom displays of themed work, units, and more.

Parenting in this day and age is an extremely difficult job. Holy Family-Holy Name School is cognizant of this fact and works very closely with all of our parents to promote a partnership with them. This team-work, established with trust and mutual respect, ensures that our children know that everyone around them “has their back.” This is confirmed when we receive parental comments like, “Positive character development and education are essential for children to succeed in this ever-changing world. HFHN hits it out of the park on both accounts”, “I chose HFHN for my children because I want them to understand that kindness, compassion, and basic human decency are hallmarks for making the world a more peaceful place”, and “You get an immediate sense of family and community connection as soon as you walk through the doors of HFHN.”

Holy Family-Holy Name’s motto is: “We are a family you can count on to serve as Jesus did.” In this vein, part of our students’ Catholic educational formation is to encourage them to be involved in service opportunities at school and in the community. We want them to see the value and the importance of doing for others.

Holy Family-Holy Name School offers today’s children a way to develop many areas of their life: academically, socially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It has a well-balanced approach that successfully addresses the complex aspects of all individuals.

The education given and received here at 91 Summer Street is centered on the teachings of the Catholic Church and how Jesus led His life. It engages children and it encourages them to build a strong foundation of knowledge, kindness, tolerance, and service. This foundation will serve them well in the future. Visit us or call us sometime soon. We look forward to welcoming you into our “family!”

Holy Family – Holy Name School is a Christ-centered academic community instilling Catholic beliefs and gospel values; nurturing student’s gifts of faith and intellect by surrounding them with a family of faculty, staff, and volunteers whose vocation is to serve.

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Holy Family Holy Name School
91 Summer St
New Bedford, Massachusetts 02740

Office Hours (Mon-Fri): 7:30am–3:00pm
School Day Hours: 8:00am–2:30pm

Phone: (508) 993-3547
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Holy-Family-Holy-Name-School/352322248282049
Website: hfhn.org/

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