On Facebook earlier today management posted the following:

“I regret to inform you that the Airport Grille has permanently closed. We wish to thank our loyal employees and our patrons for your support over the past four years. Please share this post.”

Over the weekend there were a series of posts announcing the cancellation of brunch and another that mentioned that they were closed for the day. In the comments various posters mentioned that several bands had been contacted about the cancellation of their shows.

The sudden and unexpected closure of the popular eatery has come as quite a shock to those on social media. No official comment or statement other than what has been posted on Facebook. Hopefully the employees will get some assistance in finding new jobs. Its always sad to see an iconic local restaurant close without warning.

Today is the 8th Annual Southcoast Lemonade Day thanks to BayCoast Bank.

Kids across the Southcoast will become the newest, small(est) business owners in our community, working hard to earn money through great customer service. Bay Coast Bank’s mission is to help today’s youth become the business leaders, social advocates, community volunteers and forward-thinking citizens of tomorrow…one lemonade stand at a time!

You can find out more about their mission and see ALL of the lemonade stands on the SouthCoast here.

One mother wanted to showcase the effort that her daughter went through to craft her own lemonade stand in preparation for the special day.

photo.

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“My baby girl Amariannah’s lemonade day is Saturday rain or shine. Please show your support or send friends and family as she worked very hard on her own lemonade stand.

I’m very proud of her! She will be supporting #autismawareness #autismacceptance and also #specialolympics.

Her stand will be from 11:am-5:00pm at Eddy James Park at 70 Barrett Street in New Bedford’s north end.

Please share for my baby girl Amariannah.Thank you!”-Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas.

Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas photo.

Jennifer Lee Staples-Villegas photo.

There is never a shortage of Mexican restaurants in America as we’ve had a long love affair with Mexico’s cuisine. Proof of that is apparent to anyone who has had a heated discussion about who makes the best burritos or tacos.

While everyone loves authentic, “made just like down in Mexico” fare and the experience that comes from heading one of the many great Mexican eateries in greater New Bedford, sometimes you just want to be in and out quick. There are many who despise chains, but when it comes to making Mexican food, Chipotle is a destination at the top of many people’s list.

When it was announced last September that Fairhaven would be opening a Chipotle of its own, a countdown began for Fairhaven locals or those who work in Fairhaven. We all know how brutal Rt. 6 in Dartmouth can be around lunch time, so the idea of being spared that commute is attractive to many.

S&W Contractor’s photo.

Of course, the restaurant is not just convenient for the Fairhaven-ites, but residents of Marion, South Dartmouth, New Bedford, Acushnet, Mattapoisett, North Dartmouth and Rochester.

The wait is now over and Wednesday, June 14th, marks the official opening of the the Fairhaven Chipotle at 14 Plaza Way right next to the McDonald’s and almost a stone’s throw from the popular Frontera Grill Mexican Restaurant, which is likely intentional. They will be open daily from 10:45am-10L00pm.

The 2,325 square-foot restaurant will feature the brand’s signature ‘Chipotlane,’ a drive-thru pickup lane that allows guests to conveniently pick up digital orders without leaving their cars. Be forewarned: just like the McDoanld’s next to it, there isn’t an entrance or egress to Rt. 6, so you’ll have to get to the ‘Chipotlane’ via the plaza itself.

Chipotle photo.

While all your regular favorites, i.e. salad, burritos, burrito and lifestyle bowls, tacos, sides and drinks are available at the new location, a new menu item that many Chipotle fans have been anticipating eagerly, will be offered: the Chicken al Pastor. The chain is offering the ” protein option that levels up any go-to Chipotle order with a sophisticated flavor profile and elevated taste” worldwide for a limited time only. This is the first time the Company has launched a new menu innovation globally.

The interior of the Fairhaven location is surprisingly large and is set up similar to the one in Dartmouth with the large groups tables with stools and separate tables seating up to 4. Many locals thought it would be a small, or express location focusing on take-out, but the dining room is just as large as the Dartmouth location. It also has the counter-style seating along the large pane glass-windows that many of us really enjoy. For those that enjoy sitting outside when the weather is amenable, you’ll be happy to know that their patio deck is slightly larger than the Dartmouth location.

S&W Contractor’s photo.

In addition to gift cards, catering and group order offerings, the Fairhaven Chipotle will proudly offer Fairhaven residents fundraisers through Chipotle to benefit local causes.

Of course, a question on some people’s minds is “Are they hiring?” The answer is “yes!” A typical Chipotle has around 25 full- and part-time staff. Many leave when they head of to a university, relocate, or other lifestyle change, so generally they are perpetually hiring. The offer competitive benefits which include a crew bonus with the opportunity to earn an extra month’s worth of pay each year, a debt-free college degree program, access to mental healthcare for employees and their families.

You can find out more about a career with Chipotle here and about working at the specific Fairhaven location, here.

During the month of June, the 45th Lights for Peace flag to fly at the Fort Taber – Fort Rodman Military Museum honors the memory of George Pierce Randall of Mattapoisett, who passed away on December 31, 2022 at the age of 93. George, who was affectionately called “Porgie,” served as a Machinist Apprentice in the United States Navy during the Korean War.

George was born on March 15, 1929 in New Bedford, MA, son of the late Jeremiah L. and Lillian I. (Ingalls) Randall. George called Mattapoisett his home and spent most of his life living and working in the town he loved. He enlisted in the United States Navy on August 21, 1950. Randall served a total of three years, nine months and 26 days, with the majority of his time spent either at sea or abroad. Upon completing duty, Randall was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Navy Occupation Service Medal with European clasp.

Throughout the years, George was employed as a farmer on the family farm, located on Randall Lane in Mattapoisett. He also worked as a logger, while living in Oregon, before coming back home to Mattapoisett and working as a long-distance truck driver. During his later years, he worked as a heavy equipment operator for the town of Mattapoisett until his retirement.

“Porgie” absolutely loved his hometown of Mattapoisett and was named “Mattapoisett Man of the Year” in 2007 by the Standard-Times. According to the article, Randall’s “biggest accomplishment that year was undoubtedly his successful fight to preserve the Mattapoisett town seal after a proposal from the selectmen to render it more historically and politically correct.” He felt it was important to maintain the original town seal. “After researching the seal’s history at the Town Hall, Mr. Randall spent days circulating a petition to preserve the seal; he wrote letters to the editor and bought a two-page ad in the local weekly citing his objections to the proposed change.” The article was placed on the warrant for the Town Meeting and the town voted 124-26 to keep the seal as is.

Randall fought to preserve the history and hometown feel of the town he loved. “I can remember going down the wharf in a wagon with my father to load lambs for the Vineyard onto the Alice Wentworth, an old schooner that came into Mattapoisett all the time,” he recalled. He explained that the changes taking place in the town were worrying him. “They keep raising taxes and the kids are moving out. Families that are here four or five generations and their kids have to go to Wareham to get a house. The old names in town are disappearing. My father used to sell land for $10 an acre. ‘How many acres you want?’ he used to say. Not anymore. It’s sad.”

Randall was an active participant in town politics. “George never missed a Town Meeting or vote,” explained Judy Anthony, a family friend who was quoted in a previous Standard-Times article. “Everything he does is for the good of the town. He has a heart bigger than himself. You may not agree with him, but he never does it for himself. He just loves Mattapoisett.”

In fact, at the “young” age of 80, George P. Randall, he was elected Selectman of the town of Mattapoisett. His campaign slogan “Common man, common cause, common sense,” earned him many supporters.

Randall’s daughter, Marcia, recalled how her dad was proud to be a veteran. He was “honored to take part in Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies, where he would recite the Gettysburg Address from memory.”

Randall was a lifetime member and Post Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2982 in Fairhaven, a member of the American Legion Florence Eastman Post #280 and Fairhaven Post #166, John Day Elks Lodge #1824 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Lakeville. He was also a leader in the Agricultural Grange of Mattapoisett.

Survivors include his three daughters: Cheryl Randall-Mach and her husband Steven of Mattapoisett, Marcia Randall-Thorne and her husband Joseph of Egg Harbor, NJ and Cristal Medeiros and her husband Steven of Dartmouth; a sister, Eunice Stoleki of Sturbridge, 2 grandsons: Pierce Randall and Jack Medeiros; his Godchild, Valerie Nichols; and many nieces and nephews. He was the companion of the late Elaine Vandament and the brother of the late Lewis (Pat) Randall, Leonard Randall and Geraldine Stewart.

Linda Ferreira, of Empire Ford of New Bedford, researches the life histories of area residents. American flags are provided by Empire Ford of New Bedford. Flags are raised by the staff at Fort Taber – Fort Rodman Military Museum. Those who would like to honor a local veteran in the future can contact Ferreira at lferreira@buyempireautogroup.com.

Sorbae Frozen Treats is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated grand opening of its new location at 1353 Purchase Street in New Bedford, MA. The event will take place on Sunday 6/11 from 12pm to 8pm. The celebration is kicking off with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday June 7th at 2pm, marking an
exciting milestone for the dairy-free and vegan-friendly establishment.

Sorbae Frozen Treats has gained a reputation for its delectable frozen pops, offering a wide array of flavors that draw inspiration from Brazil and other parts of the world. As a pioneer in the dairy-free frozen desserts industry, Sorbae Frozen Treats aims to infuse more vibrancy and flavor into the landscape.

Driven by a love for ice cream, a passion for hospitality, and the enjoyment of learning, New Bedford native and owner, Monica Ferracioli, leads Sorbae Frozen Treats in their pursuit of expanding the accessibility of dairy-free options. Handcrafted in small batches using quality ingredients, their naturally vegan products, many of which are also gluten-free, are inspired by a global fusion of flavors.

Highlighting the grand opening, Sorbae Frozen Treats is proud to introduce a delightful new product inspired by the renowned gelato panini of Italy. This adapted version, dubbed the “Bae Bun”, features a luscious vegan brioche bun filled with the signature Sorbae Frozen Dessert. Customers can customize their experience by choosing from a selection of mouthwatering toppings such as apple pie, passion fruit, or strawberry. The creation is then lightly toasted, resulting in a warm, fluffy exterior paired with a cool and flavorful filling – a hot/cold sensory contrasting experience! Stop in this Sunday during the grand opening for product samples, face painting, raffles and door prizes!

“We are excited and honored to open our doors in my hometown New Bedford and share our mission of bringing people together through culturally inspired flavors,” said Monica Ferracioli, the passionate owner of Sorbae Frozen Treats. “By creating products that resonate with our customers or provide them with a unique and uplifting experience, we are dedicated to building connections and celebrate the shared joy found in sweet, comforting frozen treats”

For more information about Sorbae Frozen Treats and the grand opening event, please visit www.sorbaefrozentreats.com or follow Sorbae Frozen Treats on Facebook and Instagram: @Sorbae_frozentreats and you can RSVP for their Grand opening event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/935064644412560

About Sorbae Frozen Treats:
Sorbae Frozen Treats is a leading dairy-free and vegan-friendly establishment, offering a delightful variety of frozen pops inspired by flavors from Brazil and around the world. With a mission to recreate flavors that resonate within their customers or provide a unique and uplifting experience, Sorbae Frozen Treats handcrafts their treats in small batches using quality ingredients. These naturally vegan products, many of which are gluten-free, create a culturally inspired fusion of flavors with the mission of bringing people together. Hours this week are as follows: Wed-Fri: 2-7, Sat 3-8,Sun 12-8 closed Monday and Tuesday, but that will likely change once Summer starts!

With the arrival of spring, bears waking up after a few months hibernating and hungry, have been spotted throughout New England and in many cases capturing the attention of photographers and on occasion, the news.

A little more than a week ago, the greater New Bedford area had a bear that became a celebrity of sorts as he traveled through people’s yards looking for something to ease his hunger pangs. Initially, people were a bit worried if the bear would present a danger, but as he moved from Fall River, Westport, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Fairhaven, Acushnet, Rochester, and Wareham it was apparent that the near was not aggressive and, in fact, was more scared of humans than we were of him or her.

Taste by Spellbound photo.

That’s when the worst element of people came out: people wanted a photo opportunity so would pull out their phones and cameras in attempts to snap a shot. One person even filmed themselves chasing the bear down the street in their car.

A few days ago, bearmania came to an end. And another bear stole the headlines.

“We have a loading garage in the back of our Avon shop for our Transit. Maureen was loading it with the last items before I was to leave. She was on the West Hartford side of the van, looked up and saw a bear staring at her from the South Windsor side. All the sudden we hear her screaming bloody murder and then yelling “there’s a bear in garage!”

Taste by Spellbound photo.

She ran into the kitchen as fast as she could and slammed the door that goes into the loading area and held it tight. The bear then MOVED one of our fridges in front of the door.

We all were stunned for a second trying to figure out what to do while she held the door shut. I immediately called 911. Lisa then had a brilliant idea to go out the front and get in her car to drive around back and she started beeping her horn like a crazy person. She finally got him out and Maureen ran to the garage to close it as fast as she could.

The cops showed up and our landlord has been working with DEEP. The bear destroyed 60 cupcakes a bunch of coconut cake. And that folks, is the bear story. I’m so thankful Maureen was safe wasn’t hurt, as well as the rest of the team.”-Taste by Spellbound.

Video by Taste by Spellbound:

Would you like to learn how to swim? Do you have a child that needs instruction? South Coast Swim can help! Classes are for kids or adults.

Classes are enrolling now and will run throughout the summer. All instruction is being done at the Seaport Inn, in Fairhaven at their indoor pool.

You can sign up online: https://www.southcoastswim.com/ Just fill out the form to get started. The cost is $150 for ten lessons from trained, certified instructor.

East Coast Dental Tech is a New England based Dental Technical School providing blended instruction to a diverse group of students eager to enter the Dental Field. Not everyone can commit 2-4years to college… So, East Coast Dental Tech in Raynham, MA offers an alternative, Dental Assisting.

Here’s why prospective students should consider East Coast Dental Tech:

-For those that just can’t afford it, they offer an affordable solution that cost less than the interest on a loan for (1) year of tuition at most colleges.
-Don’t have the time? We offer evening blended programs that allow students to work or accomplish their day-to-day tasks and learn after-hours.
-Can’t focus in large groups/classes? We offer small class sizes (8-9 students), and all lectures are done in an online format with a live instructor, and the smaller size classes allow for more 1-on-1 in the clinical portion.
-No support system? Our expert instructors genuinely care and nurture students from all backgrounds while guiding them on the path towards a successful career in the dental field.

Their motto: WE create Dental Professionals; YOU create a life-long career. Job placement is available and most graduates already have a position lined up before they even graduate!

Interested in learning more? They are having an open house where you can meet the instructor, take a tour and learn more about the program. Its happening on June 10th from 11:30am to 2:30pm. Follow the event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/247716107911276

REGISTERING FOR SUMMER & FALL PROGRAMS NOW – LIMITED SEATING
– (2) Evenings per week (Work while you attend)
– Affordable Payment Plans & Discounts available.
– Life-Time Job Placement Assistance
– Hybrid (½ online, ½ in clinic/hands-on)
– Apply for “Formally Trained” Licensure

East Coast Dental Tech offers a modern clinical facility right off route(s) 24/44 in Raynham.
Students get the opportunity to focus on hands-on tasks dental assistants must be competent in, and develop a chair-side skill set that sets them up for success.

Email us for more detailed information:
eastcoastdentaltech@gmail.com or visit www.eastcoastdentaltech.com

On Saturday, May 20, a collaborative effort by local businesses resulted in the construction of 30 beds for children in need, supporting the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless’ A Bed for Every Child initiative. The Coalition’s mission through this initiative is to address the needs of children by providing them with free, newly-crafted beds and a place to dream, bridging the gap in their lives. The dedicated volunteers spent the afternoon sanding and assembling the beds, which will be distributed locally. Additionally, they donated new twin sheets, stuffed animals, and books to ensure a comfortable and restful night’s sleep for the children.

Thank you to all the businesses and volunteers who made this event a resounding success: Wipfli, Alloya Investment Services, and the CCUA Southern Mass. Chapter of Credit Unions, including Alltrust Credit Union, Goldmark Federal Credit Union, Somerset Federal Credit Union, St. Anne’s Credit Union, Westport Credit Union, and Taunton Federal Credit Union (host of the event). Special appreciation is also extended to all other contributors who generously donated to the cause. Moreover, notable acknowledgment goes to All Washed Up Pressure Washing of Taunton, MA for providing their warehouse as a workspace for the volunteers during the event.

“The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless and their A Bed for Every Child initiative are instrumental in raising awareness and support to provide free new beds for children in need throughout Massachusetts. We have been supporting them in various capacities over the years and we fondly remember the positive feedback we received from volunteers and the profound impact this initiative had on our local area when St. Anne’s Credit Union last hosted it in 2019,” stated Peter Panaggio, Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer of St. Anne’s Credit Union and Massachusetts Credit Unions Social Responsibility Committee member. “Massachusetts Credit Unions have been steadfast supporters of the Coalition for over two decades, contributing more than $2.8 million in donations and providing blankets, toys, and books to help families in need. The 30 beds constructed will be distributed within our own community, making a tangible difference in these children’s lives. We firmly believe in the admirable work of the Coalition and are delighted to contribute as a united force in providing local children with improved education and, ultimately, a brighter future.”

Imagine you are a student, asked to attend an important meeting, only to discover that meeting offered a surprise so unexpected, it would dramatically change your life forever.

That’s exactly what happened at Signature Healthcare’s Brockton Hospital School of Nursing (SH/BHSON) in Brockton, MA. During an emotional presentation in January of 2022, BayCoast Bank awarded seven nursing students from Fall River and New Bedford, each with a $10,000 scholarship to help pay for their education at the prestigious nursing school.

“We had no idea this was happening,” said Raylyn Gant of Fall River. “We received an email saying we had to go to a mandatory meeting. This was a big surprise.”

Students selected for these generous awards have experienced unique challenges in their pursuit of a quality education. Dean of SH/BHSON, Jean Gouveia states, “The majority of our students come to us with significant financial need. Many are parents and single parents looking for a career pathway to achieve financial security for themselves and their families.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the room when each recipient came forward to accept their scholarship and share their personal stories, along with their heartfelt gratitude.

“I’m the first one to go to college from my household,” said Ashley Del Rio of New Bedford. “College means a lot to me. I work to pay for everything on my own. This scholarship means so much. I truly thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

For Gant, she has a very personal reason for aspiring to become a nurse. “My older brother was born with special needs and the doctor told my mother he wouldn’t survive past three months. He’s now 31, and he inspires me every day.” The scholarship, Gant says, will help her pursue her dream of becoming a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) nurse. “This means the world to me. I have been so stressed about paying for school. This is amazing.”

The scholarship opportunity evolved after SH/BHSON reached out to BayCoast, asking if the Bank could assist talented students who were experiencing financial difficulties. After hearing their moving stories, BayCoast was delighted to step in and offer generous support.

The assistance didn’t stop there. Ten months later in November of 2022, the students were surprised with a second round of scholarships to help cover the cost of their final year in the program.

“The BayCoast angels strike again,” said nursing student Christine Farland. “I have yet again been blessed with your scholarship. My burden has been lifted and I am so grateful. I appreciate it more than you will ever know.”

For Laurel Perez, receiving this second scholarship has left her overcome with emotion. “What an absolute honor it is for me to be able to write another thank you letter. For someone like me who was really struggling, this is yet another big change of a lifetime. To know this scholarship has paid off my balance for the rest of the school year moves me. My family and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

“BayCoast Bank has a strong history of supporting education on the South Coast,” said Nicholas M. Christ, President and CEO of BayCoast Bank. “This gift highlights two key areas where we endeavor to make a difference – education and healthcare. Achieving a nursing degree will not only help these students support themselves and their families, but it will also benefit our healthcare system and the local residents it serves.”

Additional members of BayCoast Bank expressed their best wishes to the scholarship recipients, offering words of inspiration.

“You have experienced struggles, but I want you to know, you are not alone,” said Evelyn Ranone, FVP, CRA Officer for BayCoast Bank. “I am so honored to work at BayCoast Bank because it is in moments like these where we can help make an impact on people’s lives. We are thrilled to help you achieve your goals because we know your nursing degrees will not only help your families, but also help the people in your communities.”

Adds Del Rio, “When Evelyn announced that we were going to be receiving another scholarship… my eyes filled with tears at the thought of the people at BayCoast being so generous to someone like me. I cannot tell you the relief I feel not having to worry about working overtime every day to pay for everything. If it wasn’t for your generosity, I would not be where I am today.”

Brockton Hospital School of Nursing is an integral part of Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital. Originally established in 1897, the school has been at the forefront of nursing education and has graduated over 2,700 nurses, mainly from southeastern Massachusetts.

It is the only two-year Registered Nurse (RN) Diploma school that still exists on a hospital campus anywhere in New England.

“We thank you for investing in our nursing students,“ said Lisa Pedranti, Manager of Annual Giving at SH/BHSON. “You are helping to craft intelligent and driven caregivers that we will all rely on in our future!”

“We congratulate these very deserving students,” said Christ. “There are very few professions in life that are more noble. We are honored to help you and we wish you the best of luck.”