It’s been 17 months since I had solar panels installed on my home and I thought I’d review how it has gone since.

Fall River-based Isaksen Solar installed panels onto my home in mid-September, 2020 (turned on in October) and I could not be happier thanks to having no electric bill (they actually pay me now), the tax benefits, and positive environmental impact.

My solar panels have generated 14.4 MWh of energy or $3,447 dollars since I installed them

While it’s amazing not having an electric bill, it’s even better having the electric company purchase back the excess energy I generate in the form of bankable credits. The credits build up and I can cash them out in the future. I haven’t had an electric bill that didn’t say “$0 owed” since a full month of having solar panels, even in the winter months. My bill before solar was around $150/month.

Here is my most recent credit from National Grid for Feb, 2022 – as you can see it it was almost $30 (28 days in the winter):

Here’s my September bill that shows that I received almost a $50 credit for the month of August in 2021:

I receive about $500 a year ($45/month) in credits from National Grid. My bill used to be about $150 a month on average, so my net gain has been about $190/month.

After filing my taxes, the federal government reimbursed me $7,946.49 (roughly 1/3 the cost of the system) for installing the solar panel system:

When factoring in the federal tax credit($7,946.49), payments from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts SMART Program (about $50/month for 8 years), the savings on my electric bill ($150/month), and the credits I’m building up from National Grid ($45/month), it will take me about 4 1/2 years to pay off the solar panel system. The system should last me 25-30 years (warranty for 25 years), so I could easily net 25 years of no electric bill and about $13,500 in credits ($45/month x 25 years). At the $1,800 yearly electric cost rate, I’ll be saving $45,000 over 25 years – add on the $13,500 in credits, and that’s a $58,500 net gain without factoring in inflation with the cost of electricity. As you can see, add in the rising cost of electricity and if my system lasts 30 years, I’ll have a net gain of well over $60,000.

Positive environmental impact

A major reason to consider installing solar panels is to reduce your carbon footprint. The smartphone application that allows you to track your solar energy production, also allows you to see how much CO2 emission you’ve reduced and the equivalent trees planted:

There are several reasons to get solar panels installed on your home; you may be able to get rid of your electric bill completely while generating bankable credits and significantly reducing your carbon footprint. Want to see if solar is right for your home? Contact Isaksen Solar at 508-567-0647. Check out their website, especially their review section.

You can check out the video I produced to show you the installation before and after.

It all started with Breds and fire reds.

A decade ago, Cameron Langlois was still in high school when he used the little extra money he had to buy a pair of Jordan 11s in the famous black and red colorway (“Breds”) and a pair of red Jordan 5s.

Little did he know he was charting a career course.
Now Langlois is the proud owner of The 508Sneakerstore, a thriving footwear store whose buy-sell-trade sneakerhead vibes emanate from the Kilburn Mill on West Rodney French in New Bedford’s South End.

Looking for a hard-to-find pair of Air Jordans? Nike Dunks? Adidas? Yeezy’s? Langlois has you covered with one of the largest and most diversified inventories in the area. From size 3.5 youth to men’s 13, the hottest releases are constantly rotating through 508 Sneakerstore’s fresher-than-fresh stock.

Langlois first shifted from collector to seller on Kixify, an online sneaker marketplace. He quickly grew, using his background in business administration to become the highest level of seller on eBay and StockX, even receiving an award for sales performance from eBay. He is also quick to credit the Facebook group the 508 Sneakerheads and it’s creator Brandon Oliver, “that group is a big part of why my business has grown so successful, so quickly.”

By late 2020, Langlois’ day job was on the ropes after the company he worked for began closing locations. He decided the time was right to go all-in on his side business.

In June 2021 he held a pop-up event in the Kilburn Mill. It went well enough to convince him to move into the location full-time. With invaluable behind-the-scenes help from his brother, Ethan, The 508 SneakerStore officially opened its doors in late 2021, adding brick-and-mortar to Langlois’ thriving online business.

Customers have quickly taken notice.

“The owner was super knowledgeable of what he had in stock and spoke to me about his favorites for a while,” wrote Charles Houbre in a Google review. “This spot being so close to home is gonna be dangerous.”

“I was told a business in an old dusty mill that hadn’t had life in it since the ‘80s could never be brought to life,” Langlois recently wrote to his customers on Instagram. “You helped me prove them wrong. I signed a lease on a barren unit not knowing what I would make of it. I spent more time this year on this than anything else, and it couldn’t have paid off more.”

Langlois is planning to expand The 508 SneakerStore into a second unit in the mill as his inventory balloons.

“Best place in town to grab some kicks,” wrote Daniel Shortt in a Google review. “Great mix of older hard to find pairs and newer hype pairs.”

So if you’re looking to buy, sell or trade or you just want to check out the hottest new releases or reminisce about some classic kicks, head down to the Kilburn Mill and see the guy who’s got it all, from the Breds to the fire reds.

Be sure to follow the 508SneakerStore across all the socials, and you can shop his eBay Store 24 hours a day!

_________________________________________________________________________

Facebook: facebook.com/The508SneakerStore/
Instagram: instagram.com/the508sneakerstore/
eBay Store: ebay.com/usr/the508sneakerstore

Located INSIDE The Kilburn Mill at 127 W. Rodney French Blvd., New Bedford, MA
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 1:00pm to 6:00pm.

Mayflower Wind, the developer of an offshore wind project located in deep waters far off the coast of Massachusetts will host a free virtual open house on Thursday, January 27 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. to provide information about its project and economic development investments for SouthCoast communities. Mayflower Wind was recently awarded 400 megawatts in Massachusetts’ latest offshore wind energy procurement and the win is accompanied by an economic development package that includes commitments to spend up to $42 million.

Combined with its first award, Mayflower Wind is looking forward to delivering 1200 MW of low-cost renewable energy to Massachusetts residents and businesses and is committed to investing in local communities and supporting economic development across the state’s SouthCoast.

The second in a series of virtual public forums, The Future of Clean Energy is Here, Mayflower Wind will present specific initiatives including:

· Education, Training and Workforce Development: Employment and training opportunities at every level of the offshore wind industry – from turbine installation, operation and maintenance to project management –will help to equip tomorrow’s offshore wind workers, especially for the benefit of local communities, including Native Americans, women, minorities, veterans, and low-income populations.
· Supply Chain: Opportunities for qualified local and regional contractors and suppliers to provide goods and services and play a role in the industry.
· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Creating opportunities for all members of the community to have a role in the offshore wind industry.
· Applied Research and Innovation: Investments in entrepreneurial initiatives that spur new technologies, services, and businesses as part of a regional Blue Economy approach
· Ports and Supporting Infrastructure: Mayflower Wind will develop its operations and maintenance port at the Borden & Remington site in Fall River, MA and run its crews out of New Bedford, MA among other initiatives.
· Low-Income Ratepayer Reductions: Mayflower Wind will support low-income customers through strategic electrification initiatives.

Mayflower Wind’s Will Cotta, Supply Chain Manager; Christopher Hardy, External Outreach Manager; Kelsey Perry, Community Liaison Officer; and Dugan Becker, Communications Assistant will host the presentation and Q&A session via Zoom. All are welcome to participate in this FREE event by registering in advance at this link.

“Fall River and New Bedford are the anchors of our SouthCoast activity,” said Daniel Hubbard, Director of External Affairs & General Counsel. “We encourage everyone to attend this event to learn more on how local communities will benefit from the offshore wind industry with well-paying jobs and community investments.”

Mayflower Wind has the potential to generate over 2,000 megawatts of clean renewable energy. The project expects to begin generating power by the mid-2020’s.

The January 2022 virtual open house continues the company’s series of free online events to provide project information and a discussion forum for community members and others. Sign up for project updates here.

About Mayflower Wind
Mayflower Wind, a 50/50 joint venture between Shell New Energies US LLC and Ocean Winds, is developing an offshore wind lease area with the potential to supply over 2,000 megawatts (MW) of low-cost clean energy to electricity customers in New England. Mayflower Wind is committed to zero harm, innovation, and industry development, and investing in our local communities. For more information visit www.mayflowerwind.com.

There’s help for your mental health, and it’s way easier than you think.

Whether you’re in a mental health crisis, just need someone to talk to or know someone who is struggling with mental health, there’s a team ready to help.
Right here in New Bedford is the 24/7 Emergency Services Program (ESP), run by Child & Family Services at 543 North Street, just north of Buttonwood Park.
All you have to do is call 508-996-3154 at any hour of any day of the year to start a journey toward better mental health.

You probably have questions. Let’s answer some of the most common.

Q: Do I need to be in a crisis?

A: No. You can call any time, for anything. Yes, Child & Family Services ESP helps those in a mental health crisis. But you do NOT need to be in a crisis to see them. Do not be afraid to call even if it’s just to talk and process your emotions. The team is here to listen, be your outlet and intervene before you reach a state of distress, whenever possible.

Q: Do I need insurance?

A: No. The priority is you. You do not need insurance to call or visit ESP, so don’t let that be a reason not to call. Pick up the phone and let them take care of the rest.

Q: Do I need reliable transportation? Do I need to come to your offices?

A: No. Don’t worry about transportation. The Mobile Crisis Intervention (MCI) program allows members of the ESP team to meet you where it is safest, whether that’s at your home, or somewhere in the community. If you prefer to visit at the offices, Child & Family Services offers transportation from 18 cities and towns from New Bedford to Plymouth.

Q: When are you closed?

A: Never. No time is a bad time. The phone lines and building are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, including holidays and weekends. You can call/visit any time of the day or night. The team is here to listen.

Q: Should I visit an emergency room first?

A: If you are in a medical emergency: Yes. If you are not, let ESP help you first, because the ER brings longer wait times and the possibility of large medical bills. And more likely than not, the ER will simply refer you back to ESP anyway. So skip that step, let ESP intervene and consider all your options, starting with the least restrictive level of care.

So if you or someone you know is stressed, depressed or struggling with mental health or substance use, please call the team at 508-996-3154. Child & Family Services’ ESP offers 24/7 services for people of all ages in need of mental health counseling and/or evaluation.

Henry Quinlan, a man with a long history in book publishing while raising a family on the South Coast, has released this trivia book with his granddaughter, Caroline Murphy, who captained the soccer and track teams at Old Rochester, was the book’s photographer.

Quinlan packs this paperback with more than 150 pages of facts, folklore, trivia and treasures that the region has to offer, creating a mini travel guide of sorts to plenty of forgotten spots of historical importance.

With chapters dedicated to each city and town from Acushnet to Westport (or Fall River to Wareham if you prefer geographically over alphabetically) you’ll learn those hidden tidbits that contribute to the distinctness of each city or town and make for great dinner party fodder.

In his latest book on the South Coast, Quinlan’s trivia ranges from well-known facts to lesser-known insights. And of course, all the icons of the South Coast, past and present, make appearances. Murphy’s photographs will test your knowledge of buildings and objects, some of which you might notice regularly but have never learned the story behind.

The book features special sections on fishing, cranberries, notable women, folklore and concludes with Quinlan’s personal picks for the most amazing Treasures of the South Coast.

What are they? You’ll have to pick up a copy to find out. To purchase a copy visit Amazon or Omni-Pub.com where right now you can get two copies for just $15.

Each year there is great anticipation of this event and this season the Ahead USA Company Store will be open the next two weekends in November and an expanded weekday schedule starting in December. Every visit is different as the stock rotates daily, but you’ll always find a great selection of clothes, hats, jackets, sportswear, golf apparel and accessories at amazing prices. The best part? All of the products are made proudly right here in New Bedford.

Important: Masks will be required to enter the store. Stop in this Friday and Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

Here is the full store schedule:

And here are directions:

Take RT. 140 to EXIT 7 – NEW BEDFORD INDUSTRIAL PARK
270 SAMUEL BARNET BLVD., NEW BEDFORD, MA.
DRIVE TO THE END OF BARNET BLVD AND ENTER THE SECOND “AHEAD” DRIVE WAY
DRIVE TO THE BACK OF THE BUILDING TO THE DOOR LABELED STORE ENTRANCE.
PLEASE NO PHONE CALLS • CASH OR CREDIT CARD

Award winning local makeup artist, Katelyn Webb will be opening her new salon in Westport, Ma. Her work has been featured in Martha Stewart Wedding Magazine, The Knot and Borrowed & Blue. Katelyn is a mother of two, with a passion for the work she does. She received her degree in hair design and makeup artistry from Paul Mitchell The School of Rhode Island in 2010 where she then began her dream career.

To celebrate the opening of her business she will be holding a Grand Opening Event on Saturday, November 20th from 10AM-2PM. Special promotions and giveaways to the first 25 clients who book a new appointment as well as 25% off every service booked! RSVP to their Facebook Event HERE: https://www.facebook.com/events/2505181879625276

The name of the new Salon is Zodiiack – A beauty constellation. Because they are compilation of beauty services under one roof. Services include hair, makeup, eyelash extensions, hair removal, airbrush tanning and microblading.

Zodiiack is located at 875 State Road, Suite 6, Westport, MA 02790. Be sure to follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zodiiackk

New Bedford Festival Theatre and Executive Producer Wendy Hall invite South Coast audiences to celebrate the December holidays with two unique theatrical events.

On December 3rd at 8:00 PM The Festival Theatre will celebrate the return engagement of John Michael Dias (Jersey Boys and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical on Broadway) as Evita Loca in Professional Christmas Lady.

Evita Loca is coming to town and straight down your chimney in Professional Christmas Lady, an all-live singing Christmas extravaganza. You better watch out ‘cause her Christmas sack is full and ready to burst. HO HO HOpe you’ll join us!

Professional Christmas Lady will run for one performance at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center December 3, 2021 at 8:00 PM. So don’t miss it!

Tickets: $25-$35 Get them HERE: http://zeiterion.org/events/professional-christmas-lady-21
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On December 4th at 8:00 PM Festival Theatre will welcome The Randy Andys Holiday Extravaganza.

Join The Randy Andys on Saturday, December 4th as they whisk you away to a “sassy, brassy wonderland!” – Broadway World

Step back in time this holiday season with The Randy Andys for a magical evening of nostalgic holiday revelry. An homage to the televised holiday specials from a bygone era, The Randy Andys will sing your favorite holiday classics with their signature contemporary twist alongside a few of their closest Broadway friends. This unforgettable evening will surely put you in the holiday spirit.

The Randy Andys Holiday Extravaganza will feature: Sarah Hanlon (Jesus Christ Superstar, Show Boat), Alison Mahoney (Evita, Food Network’s The Singing Baker)
Roslyn Seale (Ragtime, Smokey Joe’s Café), and Festival Theatre Alumni Sarah Pothier (Eugene Onegin, 1776) With Special Guests: David LaMarr (Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots) and Napoleon Douglas (Lion King, Jesus Christ Superstar).

Tickets: $25-$35 Get them HERE: http://zeiterion.org/events/randy-andys-holiday-extravaganza-21

Bask Announces Free Yoga Classes in New Bedford
Classes will be available Mondays in November at Sangha

Bask, Inc. (“Bask”), a locally owned cannabis dispensary in Fairhaven, Massachusetts, has partnered with New Bedford yoga studio, Sangha, to offer free yoga classes.

In an effort to provide access to wellness programs for those in need, Bask is sponsoring Kripalu Yoga classes at the Sangha yoga studio. Kripalu Yoga is designed for students at all levels of ability and practice. Sangha co-founders Jeff Costa and Howard Klein bring years of yoga and fitness expertise to their New Bedford studio where, according to their website, they have “created a friendly, inclusive, and healing arts community.”

Bask’s sponsorship provides free registration for up to 15 people per class. Participants can register for each free class at the following link on the Sangha website: sanghanewbedford.com/schedule
Bask has been serving registered medical patients at the Fairhaven dispensary since 2018. The multi-award-winning cannabis dispensary, cultivator, and manufacturer was named Best Dispensary in 2019 by south coast residents and recently expanded its cannabis retail operations in Fairhaven with the addition of recreational sales to adults 21 and older in February of 2021.

About Bask, Inc.
The founders of Bask are experienced medical cannabis cultivators, educators, and advocates. The team came together over a shared vision to create an environment where patients could learn and have safe access to quality products. Bask opened its doors to medical patients in February of 2018 as the first cannabis dispensary on the South Coast of Massachusetts. In February of 2020, the company moved its cultivation and processing operation to a state-of-the-art greenhouse facility in Freetown, MA in partnership with AmeriCann, Inc.

Visit their Fairhaven dispensary for medical and recreational needs.

Bask, Inc.
2 Pequod Road
Fairhaven, MA 02719
www.cometobask.com
(774)305-4749

ALDI, a leader in the grocery industry, will offer Dartmouth residents another option for smart, fast and easy grocery shopping as it opens its newest store at 200 North Dartmouth Mall. The new location is part of the company’s aggressive national expansion. ALDI operates more than 2,000 stores in 37 states and is on track to become the third-largest U.S. grocery retailer by store count by the end of 2022.

The ALDI business model is intentionally different, with a focus on offering shoppers the best products at the lowest possible prices. Local shoppers can experience the ALDI difference when the new Dartmouth store opens on Thursday, September 23, at 9 a.m. The store will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“ALDI is one of America’s fastest-growing retailers because we offer a convenient shopping experience for affordable, on-trend and sustainable goods,” said Chris Daniels, South Windsor regional vice president for ALDI. “We have served this community for more than two years and look forward to continuing to offer Dartmouth residents high-quality, fresh foods and low prices in every ALDI aisle, every day.”

ALDI stores are designed for simplicity and efficiency. A typical store is approximately 12,000 square feet of retail space, making ALDI stores much easier to navigate than traditional grocery stores. Stores also feature open ceilings and natural lighting, and they are built with environmentally friendly materials. In addition, the retailer remains focused on ensuring stores are stocked with food and household essentials customers need, including healthy, convenient options and a robust selection of produce delivered fresh to stores daily.

Known as private-label pioneers, the ALDI business model is intentionally designed to offer customers high-quality products at unbeatable prices, every day. Now, more than ever, access to affordable groceries is important, and the ALDI commitment to low prices is unwavering. When it comes to value, ALDI won’t be beat on price, and for the past 10 years, ALDI has held the esteemed title of Value Leader among U.S. grocery stores, according to the Market Force Information® U.S. Grocery Competitive Study.* The retailer consistently maintains low prices by working with the best partners to curate a selection of more than 90% exclusive brands, and ALDI guarantees its products are as good as or better than national brands. In fact, 1 in 3 ALDI-exclusive products are award-winning.**

To provide customers choice and convenience in how they shop, ALDI continues to increase its e-commerce presence. This year, ALDI plans to further expand curbside grocery pickup service to 500 additional stores, bringing the total number of curbside locations to more than 1,200.*** Visit shop.aldi.us to place an order.

ALDI is an award-winning employer that is nationally recognized for prioritizing its employees and their well-being. Known for offering highly competitive wages and industry-leading benefits, ALDI has been recognized as one of America’s Best Large Employers by Forbes six times in the past seven years. As one of the fastest-growing retailers in the U.S., ALDI is constantly creating new job opportunities in local communities coast to coast. To learn more about working at ALDI and search job openings, go to careers.aldi.us.