I know just the very concept of stating the best of anything is to step on a lot of toes. So, suffice it to say I will offer the same disclaimer: this is my opinion and I am not stating it as an objective fact. I know that with pizza things can take on almost a religious-like perspective – I don’t want to trigger any pizza rage! If your favorite pizza isn’t on this list, it doesn’t mean I dislike it, it’s just that this is what I prefer. Perhaps, I’ve never even had it!

Which brings up the point of this article: by sharing my favorites, I may turn you on to something you’ve never had and you’ll share your difference of opinion and bring to light something that I have never tasted. So, that means everyone gets pizza. What’s wrong with that?

The first mention of each restaurant’s name under its title is a link that will take you to more information on that particular establishment in case you are salivating and your body is ready. By all means, let us know who you prefer if they differ! Here are mine in no particular order:

Brick Pizzeria Napoletana

Brick Pizzeria at 163 Union Street, New Bedford and 213 Huttleston Avenue, Fairhaven brought class to pizza. By showcasing the Neapolitan style pizza they also brought a refreshing change to what everyone else was doing. Typically what was in the region was a thicker crusted pizza cooked in an industry oven or Brooklyn style. Nothing wrong with those at all, but the change here was certainly welcome!

By cooking the pizza in higher temperatures and in an old-world brick oven they returned to the way things were done and paid homage to the fundamental of every great pizza: the crust. The speed with which the pizza cooks is astounding and creates a crust that no one in the area can match in my opinion. The soft, thinner than usual style crust has the tiniest layer of crisp on it providing a texture that no one else can. The proper amount of char contributes to the overall flavor profile.

The speed is also something very welcome for those who want pizza for lunch, don’t want delivery, but don’t have much time.

Brick offers a score of “white” (without tomato sauce) and “red” style pizzas, in addition to brick-oven fired flatbread pizza sandwiches, starters, salads, and desserts. All the classic style pizzas are represented – you’ll find the Margherita, marinara, pepperoni, and others, but also lesser-known ones like the Capricciosa: prosciutto, artichoke, olives, goat cheese, the Puttanesca: anchovy, capers, red onion, olives, my personal favorite, the Salumi E Funghi: hot salami, mushrooms. Pizzas are between $6.99-$12.99. Full menu can be seen here.

Yia-Yia’s Pizza Cafe

Yia-Yia’s is probably the best kept secret on this whole list. Well, not a secret at all, but incredibly obvious if you live on “the Neck.” About halfway between the top of the Neck and Wilbur’s Point, this little pizza shop that could, and could, and could has been producing some of the best pizza on planet earth, I kid you not.

For those who don’t know, Yia-Yia is Greek for “grandma” and the term is an apt one that describes this family operated business churning out mouth pizza, Gyros, salads, subs, dinners, and even desserts. If Yia-Yia’s only made a plain pizza, they’d be on your favorite list – it’s that good. However, they do offer a large variety of pizza types, many of which I haven’t seen elsewhere. All the standards and slightly not standard are offered, the Margherita, Buffalo Chicken, Steak Abriata, Meat Lovers, Philly Steak, etc.

If you are the type that likes to try new things, you’re going to have your socks blown off, or…er…your Toga blown off with pizzas like the Jamaican Jerk, BLT, Thai Chicken, Clams Casino, Senor Taco, Coney Islander or Cacoila.

A personal favorite of mine is called the Greek Villager: Bianca with marinated chicken, topped with a chilled Greek Village style salad of cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, tossed in our homemade Greek dressing and served with a Tzatziki sauce. One bite will change your life.

Yia-Yia’s offers small and large, no medium and the price range is between $7.75 (Zorba)-$20.75 (Scallops Skopolos) but most pizzas are around $12-$13 for a large. Regardless of what they charge, it’s well worth it. Just show up and tell them to take your money.

Libad’s Seaside Tavern

Libad’s Seaside offers the best deal on this list. However, don’t be fooled and equate inexpensive with lesser quality. The pizza at Libad’s rivals any place making pizza anywhere in the area.

Libad’s hand-tossed pizza comes in one size starting with a cheese pizza at $10.95 and $1 for each additional topping. The signature and chef’s specialty pizzas are $12.95. There are “don’t rock the boat” pizzas like the pepperoni, three cheese, tomato & basil, meatball marinara, Bourbon Chicken, Clam & Garlic, and Buffalo Chicken. But they offer some amazing “rock the boat, I can swim” specials like the Scallop Mozambique, Chicken, Bacon & Ranch, Cacoila, Spinach & Ricotta White Pie, and their Libad’s Special – mozzarella, chourico, caramelized onions, Portuguese-Spiced Red Sauce, and St. Jorge Cheese. My personal favorite is the Scallop Mozambique.

So where does the “best deal” come in? If you stop by during lunch, you can get a lunch-sized version of these pizzas with a soda or beer starting at $6. You’ll also get it so fast, you’ll think there is someone using voodoo in the kitchen. Has to be the Black Arts for sure.

Fay’s

Fay’s Restaurant in South Dartmouth is famous for their top-notch Italian cuisine, but before they opened their current restaurant, they were part of a pizza joint that is famous to this day for making the most incredible thin-crust pizza pies: Fay’s Notty Pine. Matriarch Fay Costa DiPiro came to America from Fabrizia, Italy and brought her generations old, family recipe for sauce, pasta, pizza, and more made from scratch. You can’t get closer to original, old country, pizza than what is served at Fay’s!

As with all places that offer pizza, you can always get the classics or standards and you would be more than happy just doing that. In fact, order a simple Margarita or cheese (Simply Fay’s) pizza and you’ll swear that there is some secret ingredient in them – something so simple can’t possibly taste that good, right? But the old country philosophy of “Less is more, fresh is best.” is at play here. It’s Italian fundamentals.

Any restaurant worth its salt, practices terroir, or utilizing what the region has to offer to your menu and where you source your ingredients. So, you’ll see pizzas like my favorite, the Portuguese Feast: House-made cacoila, white cheddar cheese, linguica and banana peppers or the Linguica: locally made ground linguica with white cheddar cheese and tomato pizza sauce. There are dozen other types you can’t go wrong trying. How does the Basil Bianco: fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, fresh garlic and white cheddar cheese sound? Or the El Greco:Feta cheese, spinach, onions, white cheddar cheese and Italian seasonings with tomato pizza sauce?

Pizzas start at $7 with the Simply Fay’s and go up to $12 for the aforementioned Portuguese Feast or the Works. Thin crust, freshest ingredients, and love all the way from the old country. You would right to head to Fay’s for some of the region’s best Italian cuisine, but you would also be right in ordering a pizza to go right alongside anything else on their menu. At Fay’s, the humble pizza is elevated to an equal.

Cork’s Flatbread

Cork Wine and Tapas is a spot I frequent at least once a month. I need it. Have to have it. The historian in me loves the part of downtown Cork sits at and the built in 1860, Joseph Taber building itself – Taber, who by the way, was a pump and block maker as well as a selectman at one time. I like frequenting downtown and imagining I’m in the mid-19th century and deckhands are rolling barrels of whale oil up and down Centre Street or Rose Alley.

Cork’s eclectic menu changes with the seasons, but they always offer the most amazing, made-daily flatbread. For $11 you get a slice of heaven and “wow” in every bet. Like everything Cork does, the flatbreads are treated like the most important dish the chef ever made. Always consistent, forever paying attention to the details no matter how small, these flatbreads are works of gastronomic art.

The variety of flatbread is not stated on the menu, only the flatbreads themselves are described, because they change regularly, but your server will let you know when you arrive at your table. It might be a Margerita pizza, a Mozzarella & Ricotta with basil and balsamic glaze, or Chorizo with roasted peppers & onions. Or perhaps the Cubano with roasted pork shoulder, ham, cheddar, dill pickles and spicy Chipotle mustard sauce.

Honestly, whatever it is, just order it. What it is is irrelevant – it’ll be delicious. You won’t be triggered. In fact, if there is some sort of opposite, that’s what you’ll be…like untriggered or de-triggered. You’ll be one happy camper and just like Fay’s, Cork elevates the flatbread to rival any other “classy” dish on the menu. Pizza gets a bad rap and has been demoted over the years. Places like Cork return it to its deserved glory. I mean, if the picture below doesn’t get your juices going, you are either dead or a communist:

Have you tried the pizza on this list? All of them? Am I out of my gourd? Who should I try that isn’t on this list?

_______________________________________________________________

Can you imagine growing up without knowing what Portuguese food is? The vast majority of the country hasn’t the faintest idea what linguiça, chourico, kale soup, malasadas, or cacoila is. If there is such a thing as a living nightmare, I’d imagine it would be that.

Portuguese culture and cuisine is part and parcel of this community. Even you don’t have Portuguese heritage, there are so many who do, that you feel like Portuguese food is food you grew up with and “yours.” As someone who has traveled the world, I feel that Portuguese food is some the best on the planet. It is feet on the ground, fill your belly and soul kind of food. I recharge my soul no less than two or three times per week.

The only real “problem” with Portuguese food is how the heck do you pick which place to visit with so many phenomenal restaurants in the region? It’s a true foodie’s dilemma!

One of the newest and brightest stars on the Portuguese food scene is “Two Sisters,” a food truck started by, of course, sisters Caitlyn and Courtney Fontes. Both have worked within the industry since they were teenagers – for over 10 years. They’ve always dreamt of having their restaurant serving Portuguese family favorites right here in New Bedford. They realized this dream a few short months ago when they opened their “door” with the “Two Sisters” food truck.

Backed up with the experience and knowledge of their chefs and catering manager Lisa Davis, they have combined their superpowers to offer some of the best Portuguese fare in the city – good enough to rival any brick and mortar restaurant on the South Coast and that’s saying something.

How good is the food they offer? Well, if you have any doubt about generations old family recipes – which you shouldn’t – that’ll clear up when you find out that within a month of people devouring their menu items they had a 3,000 followers strong Facebook page. As of this writing (December 1, 2016) it has surpassed 4,000 followers. With a perfect five star review, you’re left with little doubt how people are responding to how good this food really is!

Since both sisters grew up in the industry they know that mouth-watering food is one piece of the successful puzzle – you need to offer great customer service, and make it affordable as well. By the responses on my personal news feed and that of their own, it’s obvious that they are batting it out of the park with their service and a glance at the menu reflects that they priced appropriately to the market.

But you’re probably here for the “goods,” right? You want to know what kind of food we’re talking about in a specific way. See that picture of the Portuguese Burger above? This burger is made of a healthy all-beef patty grilled to perfection on a burly bun topped with cheese, roasted red Portuguese peppers (perfect amount of heat), an egg and banana peppers and comes with chips and a drink for $12.99. I started with this because it’s currently my favorite item on their menu – I’ll be ordering this for months until I burn out and switch – for now, I sample what everyone else gets, which I’m sure they are…ahem…happy to share. OK, not.

And guess what? Outside of their massive 36oz. serving of Kale Soup that would feed a small army, that’s the most “expensive” item on their menu. Other sandwiches include the Portuguese standards like Cacoila, Linguiça, and Chourico which are $5 and if you want to add chips and a drink it’s $1.50. Not, $1.50 for each, but BOTH. So for $6.50 you get a full lunch – sandwich, chips and drink for $6.50 which is less than what you would pay for at a chain. Add a gargantuan 24 oz. bowl of Kale Soup for $5.

Have a larger appetite, Two Sisters offers heaping plates, like the Chicken ($10) or Shrimp Mozambique ($12) or Pork Alentejana ($10 for large orders/catering). If you are of a healthier mindset you can grab a Garden Salad for $5 and can add chicken for $3 or shrimp for $5 – those are for larger orders/catering.

The Two Sisters also offer side dishes in case you really are hungry or simply want a snack or smaller meal. Get Cod Fish Cakes, Chips, or even their homemade chips for $1, Rice (yellow or white) for $2.

Being a family business, the Two Sisters understand that not only do kids eat less and have a finicky pallet, but you shouldn’t be “punished” by paying for adult sizes. Their kids’ menu reflects perennial favorites at an appropriate price: Chicken Fingers, Grilled Cheese, and Hot Dogs are offered with a drink and chips for $5. Nope. Not a misprint – $5.

No menu is complete without dessert and you have a choice between Rice Pudding or everyone’s favorite, Malasadas.

In addition to this menu, they do offer daily specials to spice things up. You can check out their Facebook to see what they are offering each day, or just show up and be pleasantly surprised.

Being a food truck means being mobile and therefore very accessible. Typically positioned in the city at a spot you likely drive by frequently to can easily get to by highway or city street, they are never more than a few minutes drive away. Since the girls grew up in the city and know its business and blue collar community are a massive one that is usually so busy that lunch is never more than 30 minutes and often less, they churn out these freshly cooked items very quickly. The only thing that would slow you down is if everyone got the same, bright idea around the same time!

When, not if, you fall in love with what the Two Sisters are doing, you may decide that you want them to stop by your place of business so all your co-workers can enjoy. Yes, they deliver and can place your company on the list of spots to visit. Have a birthday, anniversary, or some other special occasion coming up? The Two Sisters do cater! Everyone will be more than pleased because you won’t find anyone saying “No thanks, I don’t really like linguiça, chourico or kale soup.”

If someone dares utter those words, you should cut them right out of your life. You don’t need that kind of negativity in it!

_________________________________________________________

Two Sisters Food Truck
Corner of Ashley Blvd. and Tarkiln Hill.
Hours: 12:00 to 8:00 pm.
Phone: (774) 328-1242
Facebook: facebook.com/portugeesistahs/

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_0_placeholder

Get a new lease on life … that’s the vision and driving force behind Divine Massage. It’s all about helping people feel better. Massages, once thought of as a novelty, are growing by the day as a common and frequent method of healing and self-care. From reducing physical pain to simply relieving stress, massage is a powerful approach to gaining better health.

Since its inception in 2010, Divine Massage has helped countless persons improve their health. In fact, it’s hard to believe that Divine Massage started from a simple passion and an idea. “I was brand new in the area… a brand new massage therapist,” owner Debbie Bolton says. “It wasn’t like I worked anywhere else. I started with nothing. No clientele at all.”

Today, Divine Massage proudly celebrates six years of success – so much success that they’ve opened up a second location. Expanding upon its existing site in Mattapoisett, Divine Massage is now in New Bedford as well, allowing them to serve and heal even more people.

Healing is at the core of Divine Massage’s operations. In fact, the owner herself speaks from experience. She personally discovered the life-changing benefits of massage, which inspired her to open her business and provide the same to others. “I had back problems. I used to clean houses…all that mopping and vacuuming. That’s what made my back the way it was. I went to see a chiropractor and then started getting massages over there.” Adding massage to her treatment, Bolton says, is what helped to fully relieve all of her pain.

For this reason, Divine Massage specializes in pain relief. “When I hire a massage therapist, I always make them give me a massage first. I want to make sure that they can do the neck and shoulders, the back and glutes… Anyone can give a relaxation massage. I want them to be able to work the muscles and really help people feel better,” says Bolton.

However, Divine Massage serves clients from all backgrounds, professions, and health levels, and clients with varying interests and needs. This includes chiropractic patients, as well as runners, athletes, persons who workout, enjoy yoga and meditation, and those who simply love a great massage.

“There’s so many benefits of massage,” Bolton says. “It can relieve stiff necks, tension, lower back pain, sciatic and piriformis issues. 85% of our clientele is here because something is wrong. They’re hurting. Something is bothering them… And then there’s people that just want to relax. We can do that too. They just want to get away from the world.”

One of the highlights of choosing Divine Massage, is that the experienced staff will help to identify each person’s individual needs. They ask questions and get to know you. They’ll provide you with a complete consultation beforehand so that your massage is individualized to your goals and your body’s specific needs. Even better – if you decide to continue, they keep detailed notes after every visit to monitor your progress.

If you’re new to massage, one of the greatest barriers for most people is simply fear of the unknown. The truth is that many people have never had a massage. They don’t know what to expect. They have questions. They wonder, What happens? What do I wear? Do I have to take everything off? Will I be in pain? Will it be awkward? Will I feel uncomfortable?

“Call us,” Bolton says. “We’ll talk you through it. I’ll show someone the room, show them the table. I explain that they are always draped… and I leave every choice up to them. They can leave everything on if they want.”

Then, client comfort and satisfaction goes one step further. “I try to match every client to the right therapist. I tell clients when they come in, if you’re not completely satisfied with one therapist, come back in. Try another therapist. Our goal is to find you one that matches and meets your needs.”

She also insists that clients should always communicate how they’re feeling. “People have to speak up if it’s too much. If they’re in pain, or if they want more pressure, they need to communicate with the therapist. I don’t know if they are afraid of insulting us?”

Again, this is what stands out most about Divine Massage – they are all about their clients’ needs. “I don’t try to push products. A lot of massage places try to push lotions, oils… We’re just about helping the client,” Bolton says.

Divine Massage is also affordable. “I keep my rates very reasonable because I want people to be able to afford to come in here at least once a month. We focus on the clients, their target areas, and whatever is bothering them. We focus on helping them to feel better for the long term. That’s our goal.”

Therapeutic Massages are just $52 and Relaxation Massages are just $47… If you’re a first-timer, take $5 off that price on your first visit! During the holiday season only, a Relaxation Massage is reduced to $39!!!

Getting a massage is not simply a “luxury,” according to Bolton and her staff. It’s something you should give your body regularly, to ease away stress, pain, and tension and restore overall health and well-being.

When you enter any of Divine Massage’s locations, you’ll feel immediately welcomed… and you can’t help but noticed that you are surrounded by the ‘ocean.’ This is Divine Massage’s signature décor. Bolton says it’s all part of giving her business a local flair.

“I’m from East Fairhaven. I love the ocean. It’s always right down the street. Sometimes if there’s a break in between clients, I’ll just go right down to Ned’s point… I love being near the ocean. A lot of massage places all seem to be the same. They have the ‘zen’ vibe. I wanted something a little different. It’s calming and soothing, but a little different, and it fits this area perfectly.”

When asked what her top goals are, and what she wants the legacy of her company to be, Bolton says, “We’re just here to help people feel better.”

Today, a team of 9 licensed professionals at Divine Massage offer comprehensive massage services seven days per week. Therapeutic massages are their most popular service, and they also offer relaxation, deep tissue, and hot stone massage. Practitioners are also certified in prenatal massage and lymphatic drainage. In addition, massages may include moist heat, lavender scented lotion, and even coconut oil for people with very sensitive skin.

You deserve to treat yourself…. Let Divine Massage help you feel better too. Start prioritizing your health with a massage today.

____________________________________________________

Call Divine Massage at anytime to try one of the following. All new, first-time clients receive $5 off their first visit!

Massage Services Offered at Divine Massage:

• Relaxation massage
• Therapeutic massage
• Prenatal massage
• Deep tissue
• Hot stone
• Couples Massage
• Deep Heat Therapy

Divine Massage also offers Spiritual Medium Readings on Mondays at their New Bedford office. The cost is $45 for a 30-minute session. The medium, Vanessa, is one of Divine’s massage therapists. Want a truly moving experience? Receive a medium reading during your massage! Please note: In the spirit of the holiday season, Divine Massage will also serve as a “Toys for Tots” drop off location.

_______________________________________________________________

Phone: 508-933- 4935
Email: divinemassage34@yahoo.com
Website: divinemassagema.com
Facebook: facebook.com/Divine-Massage

New Bedford Location: 862 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA 02745
Mattapoisett Location: 34 Barstow St, Mattapoisett, MA 02739

All new clients receive $5 off their first visit!
Both locations are open 7 days per week, by appointment only.

ngg_shortcode_1_placeholder

I take pictures of family and children all over New England.So people always are asking me for ideas of where they can take some pictures of their children. Some people like the beach, others prefer a more earthy area, and some want something “different”.  So I created the list below with something for everyone.

1. Buttonwood Park Zoo
Buttonwood Park Zoo is a favorite of mine for taking pictures of children. Though, it does require a membership, if you don’t have one, you can borrow a membership from one of the local libraries. It’s definitely worth it!Whenever, I don’t know what to do with my girls, we go to the zoo. It’s always a treat to see the adorable animals. Depending on what time of a day we go we even sometimes see animal demonstrations. There is plenty of room for the kids to run and it’s all enclosed, so I don’t worry about.

I like taking pictures at the zoo for a few reasons:

A. Kids get comfortable pretty quickly. How can you not when you’re surrounded by animals!

B.There are so many picture opportunities with all of the lovely flowers and shrubbery.

I recommend finding a shady spot to grab your picture. You want to avoid harsh shadows and harsh light.

2. Fort Taber
Fort Taber is another favorite because there are so many different “backgrounds”in one place. You can take photos by the fort itself, on the rocks, the grassy area or even the playground. Plus, there is the pier and also a small beach. The choices are endless!Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to catch gorgeous photos here. Again, you always want to either find a shady area, or pick a time when the sun is low in the sky.

3. Downtown New Bedford
If you’re looking for an urban spot, downtown New Bedford is it! Filled with a rich history, you can grab photos on the cobblestone streets, near the whaling museum or by the Seaman’s Bethel.(Did you know this historic place is mentioned in Herman Melville’s Moby Dick?) Also, there are plenty of brick buildings and places with character to make your photos more interesting.

4. The Waterfront
Another historical area in our great city.The waterfront is beautiful with all of the commercial boats and happenings in the background. Sunset is an amazing time to capture your family photos in front of a gorgeous backdrop.

5. West Beach
I grew up going to West Beach in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Though I no longer go swimming there, it holds fond memories. It features gorgeous sunsets, since the sun sets in the West. I also love the decorative tall grasses and the rocks you can walk out on. Even the back of the bath house, with it’s stucco tan wall, makes a great backdrop.

6. Hazelwood Park
Hazel wood Park, which is right across from West Beach is another fun location. I love taking pictures among the trees. There is a really nice gazebo for picture taking as well. A great play area for your children.

7. Rural Cemetery
Every now and then, I have some clients that want something really different. I love finding “really different”. It puts my creativity to the test. A particular Halloween loving client was thrilled with the idea of doing a session in a cemetery! I picked Rural cemetery since it offers more than just tombstones in the background of your photos. There are many beautiful trees and cool iron wrought fencing to bring your photos to life.

My biggest suggestion when trying to find new and fun places to take your family photos is to think outside of the box. You really only need a very small area of something pretty or cool to produce a great image. So sometimes the place on a whole, might look unappealing. But if you find one or two areas of interest within that site, that’s all you need.

Abrah Zion, of Miss Z Photography, is an award winning maternity, newborn, baby and child photographer in New Bedford, MA. She serves all over the South Coast and New England with her satisfied clients deriving from New Bedford, South Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Acushnet, Mattapoisett, Marion, Padanaram, Fairhaven, Rochester, Freetown, Lakeville, Westport, Fall River, Somerset, Plymouth, Rhode Island, Cape Cod and Boston.

Looking for a great after school program for the little ones? Here’s a look at the YWkids School Age Program run by the YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts held at Lincoln Elementary in New Bedford. Call 508-525-7961 to reserve a spot for your child!

Details: http://ywcasema.org/what-we-do/youth-services/

Can you imagine getting through your day without your phone? No Tweets, status updates, texting friends, checking emails, watching the latest viral video? We Americans live in a society where we are connected and our livelihoods and businesses rely on that accessibility and availability. Any disruption, no matter how short, is one that could cost money or a missed opportunity.

We rely on our devices for our news and entertainment. Like it or not, our devices are an integral, important aspect of our lives. That aside, when things are running smoothly, we like like to customize our devices and make them our own. After all, we spend so much time with our phones, tablets, and computers, they are like machine family!

We at New Bedford guide love “mom and pop” stores. It’s not that we have disdain for the big box stores – they employ large numbers of people and offer low prices – it’s just that there are some stark differences between the two, and we prefer one over the other. I don’t want to derail the article, by comparing the two, but suffice it to say that the “big boxes” come with huge funds to fuel their marketing campaigns, profits go out of state and smaller stores often struggle to set aside for monies for advertising and the money stays local.

Mom and pops have a soul, they are owned by people who live here, and the money they generate in terms of revenue or salaries stays right here. Besides these positives, there’s a bit of nostalgia for the businesses of yesteryear, B.C. or “Before Chains.,” that helped make America the economic powerhouse it is. Lastly, who doesn’t like to root for the underdog?

One local business underdog is Mr. Fix & Customize located at a kiosk in the Dartmouth Mall. This kiosk that could not only repairs any problem you have with your phone, tablet, iPad, laptop or other device, but they buy and sell used phones for those who need money or are on a budget. Want a better carrier plan? They have a variety of plans to fit all budgets, including some of the lowest around for unlimited nationwide talk and text. They unlock phones, have every accessory under the sun, and as their name suggests they customize phone cases with text or images that are personal to you. You can have your kids, a selfie, your dog or cat, favorite hot rod, favorite “hottie” or any other picture you want. Full resolution, crisp and clear. You can see examples in the photo gallery below.

However, the core of what they do – their specialization or niche, if you will, is repairing phones of any make or model. It’s what has made the reputation – the affordable rate, astounding speed with which they turn the phone “over” and the quality of workmanship. Best of all, is you can often watch them work since it’s so fast – worst case scenario is that you take a short walk, grab a slice of pizza, do some window or proper shopping and when you’re done, your phone will be ready. That’s convenience.

The business was started 3 years ago by tech junkie, Agil Nadirov. For as long as he can remember he has always had a love for cutting edge technology and devices. He reads, eats, drinks, and breathes technology. A passion that has driven him to the point that he’s even spent time in China visiting phone manufacturing and repair facilities.

This visit behind the scenes stoked a fire in Agil and when he returned to Massachusetts, he combined this inspiration with his lifelong love and started Mr. Fix & Customize. Since his venture, he’s thrived off of positive word-of-mouth based on the affordability of his rates, the variety and quality of his products and parts – parts that are not generic or universal but original to the manufacturer and shipped from their factories WITH manufacturers warranties – and his service.

Service that is fast, professional, friendly and spirited. You will get the sense that Agil is doing something he loves and would do from sunrise to sunset if money weren’t an object. “We’ll make you fall in love with your phone.” is the company slogan!

This word of mouth has skyrocketed his businesses growth to where he is 3 years later with a healthy business and sizable base of repeat customers. So popular in fact, that he has had to hire an almost carbon copy of himself in terms of knowledge, experience and ability, in Manager Sahib and a few part-time employees.

The great thing about Mr. Fix & Customize is their accessibility located in the Dartmouth mall, where many of us stop in frequently or pass by. It’s not an out of the way spot, and it’s a spot that allows you to kill more than one bird with a stone, because you can stop in on your way to shopping, seeing a movie, or eating.

Being a lover of all things technology related, Agil is, of course, on social media, particularly Facebook and Instagram. You can read reviews and testimonials, get a sneak peek into what it is they do there, see images of Agil and Sahibs handiwork, products and examples of custom work.

Better yet, chances are you’ll be visiting the mall or nearby, just make a quick pop by the kiosk and ask for Agil or Sahib and tell them New Bedford Guide sent you. See the products, accessories, custom jobs and the faces behind the business – after all, what often separates one business from another if they offer many of the same things and competitive prices is the lifeblood of any business: the people.

_________________________________________________________

Mr. Fix & Customize
200 North Dartmouth Mall
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Monday-Saturday: 10:00am-9:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am-6:00pm

Phone: (508) 999-5900
Facebook: facebook.com/MrFixCustomize

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_2_placeholder

One of the best aspects of the arts is that they whisk us away to a place where there is only the performance, performer(s), and ourselves. For a brief hour or two, we get a respite from our worries, concerns and woes. A much needed and desired distraction whereby we are delightfully taken on a journey of music, poetry, art, or theater performance.

We get to relax and enjoy ourselves, perhaps for the first time that day, week or even that month! This break from the daily grind is healing for the soul, a chance to recuperate. No price can be placed on the experience.

Problem is that often it is because of that daily grind, that we forget to stop and smell the proverbial roses. The Japanese have a great saying “Careful you don’t draw the bowstring too tightly.” Work is an integral aspect of the American life and we can truck along working long days and months can pass by and we forget how important it is to put some slack on that bowstring. Taken a break allows us to recharge and be able to freshly tackle our projects and careers.

One of most popular ways to do this is to engage your brain, eyes and ears with theater performance. An internet search for theater will turn up a lot of hits and there are a number of venues to choose from, all offering a mixture of original creations, classics, and popular contemporary shows. An astounding variety actually.

One that has been around for 50 years – yes, five decades – is the student run UMass Dartmouth Theatre Company which has been pleasing audiences with their University level shows. While anyone in the community can participate in the shows, the performers are typically UMass Dartmouth students. Almost every single one of them are non-music majors – they are studying engineering, medical laboratory science, history, art, English, business and so on.

Their mission is to provide professional theater to the local community and they are celebrating their 50th anniversary with a spectacular classic and perennial favorite: “Into The Woods,” a multi-Tony Award-winning 1987 musical by librettist/director James Lapine and composer Stephen Sondheim.

The musical is based upon the plots of four of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales’ characters: “Rapunzel,” “Cinderella, “Jack and the Beanstalk” and a baker and his wife. While there are other characters included, the main theme revolves around these four.

The baker and his wife wish to start a family but find themselves infertile. They find out that this is because of their neighbor – a witch who placed a curse upon them because the baker’s father stole some vegetables, including six magical beans, from her garden. Magical beans sound familiar?

This witch really took offense with her beans being stolen and cursing the baker’s fathers entire line isn’t enough: she also stole the baker’s sister at birth – our Rapuznel. How to lift this curse so the baker and his wife can produce? Assist the old witch in finding four ingredients that she needs for a potion.

Of course, being a fairy tale, it can’t be as easy as making a shopping style list, not only does the offer come with an expiry of 3 days at the stroke of midnight, but the ingredients are vaguely described “…the cow as white as milk, the cape as red as blood, the hair as yellow as corn, and the slipper as pure as gold.”

Anyone familiar with the Grimm Fairy Tales can see with these clues that the other characters will eventually be introduced. Red Riding Hood needs bread to bring to her grandmother’s house, to which she will go to the baker for, wearing, of course, her red cape. Jack of beanstalk “fame,” wants to sell his cow to appease his mother’s desire for gold and the baker offers 5 magical beans that he found in his father’s jacket. Rapunzel is trapped in the witch’s tower where she was raised by the witch and Cinderella comes into play when the baker’s wife spots her at a festival wearing gold slippers – but she flees the festival to get home before the stroke of midnight.

I don’t do the tale justice, but suffice it to say that these stories are woven together in a thoughtful, clever way over two acts. It is done is such a brilliant way that the musical has been shown since 1988 across America, England, Australia, Japan, Singapore, France, Spain and many other countries. It has played on Broadway, been turned into a movie, won multiple awards, nominated for ten Tony Awards, and won three: Best Score, Best Book and Best Actress in a Musical for the original 1988 production.

While the tale is an absolutely fun and engaging one, what breathes life into it is the performance of the players. When you combine total passion for what you are doing with work ethic, and experience, you get inspired performances that are sure to please. The sets are high production and no expense is spared. The elaborate costumes rival anything you’d see in a Hollywood production.

The performers have been working since the end of September and rehearse amidst course schedules, exams, and other extracurricular activities which makes the high level of production even more astounding.

You can help support the arts at UMass Dartmouth by patronizing the production of “Into The Woods.” To celebrate the 50th anniversary, organizers have paired with Buffalo Wild Wings – print out the image of the “Teammate Card” and bring it with you on your visit from now through December 25th and 10% of your check will benefit UMass Dartmouth Theatre Company. A win-win – you support the arts in the community and get a belly full of mouth watering food!

_________________________________________________________

Umass Dartmouth Theater Company: Into the Woods
285 Old Westport Rd
North Dartmouth, Massachusetts
November 10th-12th at 7pm, November 13th at 2pm.
Prices are $10 general admission and $5 student discount.
All performance will take place in the UMass Dartmouth Main Auditorium

Phone: (508) 999-8167
Email: umdtheatreco@gmail.com
Event Page: allevents.in/north%20dartmouth/into-the-woods
Facebook: facebook.com/UMassDartmouthTheatreCompany/

President: Fatima Fraga-Alvarez
Vice President: Lyndon Davis
Treasurer: Meghan Lynch
Secretary: Cheyanne Patterson

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_3_placeholder

In a day and age when people are spending increasingly more time on their devices, we need resources that remind us that there are other ways to be engaged and entertained. We can expand our horizons beyond accessing information in the form of documents and images on a screen.

There is no substitute for hands on engagement in the “real” world, but for many of us that live within the city that typically comes in the form of eating out, heading out for drinks, perhaps an occasional visit to the zoo or theater.

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with those things, what they all lack is nature. Remember her? When I say nature, I don’t mean taking the dog for a walk through the park waiting for it to evacuate its bowels. Nor do I mean, sitting at the beach tanning. I mean, to enjoy the astounding variety of flowers, plants, trees, flora and fauna that we simply rarely see because we live in the city.

It’s an element that should be present in everyone’s lives. To be surrounded by nature, to engage it through exploration, to learn through observation is to recharge the body, mind and soul. Indeed, it has been the topic of countless poets, writers, and artists and a powerful source of inspiration.

Yet, it can still be social. It is inclusive, not exclusive. You can bring along a friend or family. You can even bring along your favorite device to take pictures of the glorious, natural beauty.

Do we have to drive to central or western Massachusetts for this? Another state further north? Not at all. There’s a place right here in the city of New Bedford that offers this and much more: the Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens. Named after city resident and famed horticulturalist, Allen C. Haskell, who purchased the land and turned it into a nursery, the gardens began to deteriorate due to neglect after his passing away over a decade ago.

The 6 acre gardens were rescued in 2012 by The Trustees of Reservations at the request of the city, is a hidden gem for residents – one that is simply not well-known in spite of its value and being completely free. While there are “only” 6 acres on site at Haskell Gardens, the “Trustees” preserve more than 26,000 acres across the state as an organization with 117 properties – Haskell Gardens is one of 12 public garden properties thy are restoring.

The community resource goes far beyond its natural setting and offers a variety of unique programs and services. On the grounds you’ll find greenhouses, sheds, landscaped grounds, open space, historic structures (including one of the city’s oldest) and even buildings for public use. Want to have a wedding there? You can. Interested in the outdoors, gardening and art, and want to exercise that green thumb? You can do that too. Perhaps you just want to visit to stroll, smell the proverbial roses, or even help with the restoration… you are more than welcome!

Organizers like General Manager, Ross Moran, Visitor Services and Shop Coordinator, Brooke Baptiste and Horticulture Assistant, Gene Bertrand have a genuine love for history, preservation and connecting people to Massachusetts’s storied past. Their desire is to be an integral part of daily life for the community and would like nothing more than to see smiling faces get involved in a manner that suits them.

To get people away from the hustle and bustle of life, involved in horticulture, preservation, and education as well as participating in the many programs, events, and services is to enrich, empower and improve the entire community. They see the property as the foundation to develop that relationship.

Since the property is relatively new, and barely 4 years of age, it is still undergoing much renovation and improvement. There are a lot of plans in motion, and the public’s suggestions and input on the direction are desired. Want to get your hands “dirty,” so to speak? You can volunteer to help here.

“We’d love nothing more than to see farmer’s markets, weddings, concerts, art exhibits, cultural festivals, private celebrations and more on the property on a regular basis. We have more than enough for those who have an interest in horticultural and agricultural initiatives – which falls under the purvey of our Garden Restoration and Maintenance Initiative.” explained General Manager, Ross Moran. “We also have a Growing Program focused on increasing appreciation, education and involvement in local or urban food production. Also, our new garden shop which will open again in the Spring and will feature some of the unique and rare plant material Allen used to sell. And, we will use the space as a revolving interpretive space for kids and families to learn more about horticulture and gardening on site.”

One particular aspect that all are proud of and is of particular import – since it is ideal to get kids involved with nature at an early age – is the large park-like common which often has lawn games available just for kids, and a hidden bamboo grove, which always gets the little ones excited. They can reconnect with nature by growing and nurturing their own plants, do plenty of climbing, crawling and exploring. Great exercise for their body and mind, and you’ll also not have much trouble getting them into bed at night!

By getting involved and supporting the gardens you reward your body, mind and soul, but it also means you help insure that urban sprawl doesn’t consume a green space. You play an active role in something that greatly benefits us all. Take advantage of a free resource!

One of the best ways to get more information is to meet the people involved. Of course, a visit to the ground is most ideal, but at two AHA! Nights – November 11 and December 17th – you can do just that by visiting the Haskell Public Gardens folks at their Holiday pop-up shop. You can ask a million questions, take home some literature, check out some of the artwork, sculpture, stained glass, pottery, etc. from local artisans that they place on the grounds, and perhaps get some sage gardening advice. You’ll be there anyway!

As a way to support local, small, and “green” oriented businesses, Haskell Gardens features these creations as well as wreaths, plants, flowers, gardening tools, on the property’s “Happy Hosta” gift shop open Wednesday-Friday 11:00am-6:00pm and Saturdays 10:00am-3:00pm.

So, take a break from your busy life and stop and smell the “roses.” Your soul will thank you!

_________________________________________________________

Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens
777-787 Shawmut Avenue
New Bedford, MA 02746
Parking is available on Shawmut Ave. and in the small parking lot on Loftus Street
Phone: (508) 636-4693
Email: rmoran@ttor.org

Website: thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/south-coast/haskell-public-gardens.html
Facebook: facebook.com/pg/thetrusteessegardens/

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_4_placeholder

The housing market is a very volatile and dynamic one. Since it’s attached to livelihoods and finances, it can actually be a frightening, dangerous endeavor to buy or sell a home – especially if you are new to the process. The amount of important information that you must know is astounding as it is mind-boggling. It goes without saying that it is impractical to do the process on your own and certainly prudent and wise to hire experts to do so.

The problem is that there is a plethora of real estate companies out there and this generates even more questions and seemingly requires just as much experience and knowledge to find a reputable one as it does to sell or buy a home! What’s the difference between a broker and an agent? Is the company a trusted one that won’t attach hidden fees? Do the agents and brokers actually genuinely enjoy what they are doing and carry that over into taking care of your needs? Will they listen to your worries and concerns and take them seriously? After all this your livelihood and future on the line.

One company that has been making a name for offering this type of superlative service across the South Coast is Howe Allen Real Estate. While they initially opened their office in Boston, the real estate company relocated to Fairhaven at 43 Center Street in 2013. Within the span of less than three years of opening that location, their professional service and satisfied customers led to the opening of their newest location here in New Bedford at 185 Union Street. Impressive growth, but not surprising if you’ve worked with Howe Allen or his team of enthusiastic professionals.

Howe was born into real estate – his mom was a successful broker in Vermont where he grew up, and his father owned a construction company. Their shared experiences and knowledge helped him develop a perspective, insight and valuable skillset that is rather unique – it has allowed him to see beyond the real estate business and been particularly invaluable when it comes to incorporating design and real estate.

Equally as important is the fact that he also has, literal hands-on experience: he has personally renovated and designed fifteen styles of homes. After graduating college, he took a corporate job for 20 years while doing real estate on the side. When his aging parents needed more care, his corporate job with its rigid, strict schedule, became an obstacle to that care. His husband Tim urged him to make the leap into real estate full time about 10 years ago. He launched his own firm and sought out the best in the industry to work with him.

Whether buying, selling, renting, thinking about renovations or any other housing need, the company treats each and every interaction with equal import. While there are many things that set Howe Allen Realty apart from other firms, the most fundamental is the service they offer to you whether you are buying, selling or renting. Each of their team members is passionate about working with clients and seeks out a personal relationship, one that they hope is lasting.

The brokers and agents bring their prior careers to bear in their approach to real estate. A mixture of corporate jobbers, small business owners, former teachers, professors, and salespeople allows a broader perspective to better serve clients. However, they feel that the most important credential is passion! All feel that making a particular first impression is vital and that an laser-like attention to details is how you offer world-class service. From expert photography, drawing up floor plans, exploring quality of life issues when it comes to the specific locales, to pertinent information for home ownership.

Howe Allen and staff know that the process could take months to find the right home and provide a selection that not only meet your criteria, but “We firmly believe that when the right home comes along, the client will know it.” They are in for the long haul knowing that at the end of the day it is your knowing or feeling about a home is the deciding factor and they are not there to convince you otherwise, but to provide guidance. They are simply not interested in the quick sale, rather the lasting relationship the process can offer.

Howe explained “Some clients have been turned into personal friends, others contact us long after a purchase or sale for advice on a renovation or referral to a trusted, reliable contractor or service provider. Sometimes our biggest role is after the sale is complete!”

Whether you are a first time home buyer in your twenties, an empty-nester or you’ve been “around the block” Howe Allen is the agency to assist you along the way. Insuring you don’t make a costly mistake, have that vital piece of needed information, or be a soundboard of experience.

Howe Allen’s passion goes beyond the business and extends to the community. The company takes an active role in local events, causes and charities and has launched several unique fundraising events that are fun and engaging so you won’t even now you’re at a fundraiser!

They’ve initiated a naming contest for vacation cottages, introduced the white picnic concept to the South Coast – in Fairhaven it’s called the “Picnic On The Lawn.”- that is now being copied by neighboring communities, a short film festival in mid-winter to get people out of their homes when cabin fever begins to set in and take its toll. In addition they partake in events that have been ongoing, such as AHA! Night, Rotch-Jones-Duff “Set The Table” event, Concert Under The Stars, several 5K events, and more.

You can get a great feel for what it is that Howe Allen Real Estate does by perusing their images, videos, and comments across social media, asking around, or even simply stopping in at one of their locations. The very functional and valuable website is a great source to do that as well. You can see all the available homes that are listed and sort them by location, distance, price range, number of bedrooms or bathrooms and many other specs. You can read bios, see what they are up to locally, and check out homes that they have successfully sold.

There really is no better way to find out what a business is really like than word of mouth and testimonials. Hearing from people who have used their services is a great measure of any business. The proof is in the pudding as they say, and you can read the rave reviews and testimonials (perfect 5 stars on Facebook Review from very satisfied customers.

One comment summed up the Howe Allen real estate experience best: “Howe is everything you ever thought you needed from an agent. More importantly, he’s also everything you didn’t know you needed.”

Howe Allen Realty Agents
Cassie Canastra
Lindsay Gordon
Tim Evans
Shaun Ferreira
Linda Jardin
Maria Migirdicyan
Julia Mitchell
Tim Mitchell
Liz Moses
Joyce Spooner

_________________________________________________________

Howe Allen Real Estate
43 Center Street
Fairhaven, Massachusetts

185 Union Street
New Bedford, Massachusetts

Phone: (888) 491-9993
Email: info@howeallen.com
Website: howeallen.com/
Facebook: facebook.com/howeallenrealty

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_5_placeholder

Photo-capturing has become part of our everyday culture. We capture moments, memories, experiences, food, sights, and trips with family and friends. The advent of smart technology and cameras at our fingertips has allowed us to capture nearly every minute of every day on camera.

However before there were phone-cameras, there were cameras, and many fell in love with photography long before it became so commonplace. Tracey Medeiros Mongeon is one of those people.

You may know Tracey first as the enthusiastic Branch Manager at Bank Five in Fairhaven, where she’s worked for the last five years. When she’s not at the bank, however, you’ll see her attending community events, supporting local organizations, and serving area business associations, including serving as a top Ambassador for the Greater New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce. Her energy, enthusiasm, and likability is unmatched…. and don’t be surprised to see her taking selfies with nearly every familiar face she passes. She’s a people person in every sense of the word.

Now, she’s taken her love for people and community to the next level by launching her own photography business. It seemed only natural for her to do. First, she’s a Massachusetts native and an adoring fan of its sprawling geography and ornate architecture. Combine that with her natural ability to connect with people, and there you have it – a Kodak moment.

Tracey says she started to truly recognize her talents after her daughter was born. She grew inspired to take more photos, and capture as many memories as she could. “I love photography. I’ve always been the one taking pictures everywhere of everything.” This transferred into family parties, her community work, and virtually, everywhere she went.

As a result, family, friends, and colleagues all told her she had a talent, which sparked a very faint idea in her mind – to someday start a photography business. Years later, when the time was finally right, she went for it.

“My husband and I were getting married, and we started to look at photography companies… I made the decision to take my own wedding photos, and then I thought, babe – I’m launching my company.” That’s right. Photography is such a passion of Tracey’s that she even took all of the photos at her own wedding.

That’s the key word here… ‘passion.’ It gives Tracey and her company special value. She’s not trying to make it her full-time business or career, and she’s not in it for the money. She simply loves the opportunity to create beautiful photos for people.

Even more, according to Tracey, it’s pure fun. “I just love taking photos. I love people. I love being out on location. We just have a ball. It’s high energy, experimenting with different shots, locations, views… it’s just having fun!”

In fact, it’s rare to see her without her camera. When she’s not working with clients, she’s out anywhere and everywhere, just smiling behind her camera lens. “I often show up at community events just to take pictures of everyone, and everything. I have my camera everywhere I go.”

Plus, she tries to donate as much as she can, having already donated five photoshoots this year. When asked why, she said, “Just to give back to the community. I really love working with people and helping people.” And photography is just one of the many ways she does this.

When asked the greatest value her business provides, Tracey said, without hesitation, “Confidence building… that’s the number one thing. It’s amazing. People are just so thankful. They’ll ask, ‘Is that me?!’ But not just that, even after the shoot they’ll say, ‘Wow! I felt amazing!’ They say, ‘You made me feel so great’ or ‘I needed this.’”

That is the truth. Tracey does make you feel ‘so great.’ Her enthusiasm is contagious. Tracey may be a photographer, but she truly exemplifies her personal motto in her work – “It’s the person that makes the position, not the title.” She makes clients feel like supermodels. She removes fear and fills them with confidence, and of course, provides beautiful, lasting photos they are beyond proud of.

AAM Photography was officially launched in January 2016. Tracing back to its roots, and the very inspiration behind the business, she’s named her company AAM Photography after her now 7-year-old daughter, Amanda Ava Medeiros. She specializes in photographing people, offering headshots and business photo shoots, as well as landscape and animal photography.

_________________________________________________________

AAM Photogrpahy
Elm Street
South Dartmouth, Massachusetts

Phone: (508) 813.6099
Email: aamphotography2015@gmail.com
Website: aamphotography2015.com
Facebook: facebook.com/aamphotography2015/

_________________________________________________________

ngg_shortcode_6_placeholder