Long-awaited opening of New Bedford’s Starbucks finally happens!

In December of 2021, we shared the news that Starbucks would be opening a cafe in New Bedford. Well, after many delays, and the possibility of Starbucks reneging on its decision to use the New Bedford site, it has finally happened! They are open for business.

The location is 157 Coggeshall Street, right next to Petro-Mart and Touchless Car Wash, and where Subway once stood. Yes, there is a drive-thru, mobile ordering, and an outdoor patio.

The New Bedford location is more similar to the Fall River location as opposed to the Dartmouth cafe. While the hours have yet to be announced, it is likely they will use the standard hours they use at most locations: Monday-Friday from 5:30am-8:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 6:00am-8:00pm.

Of course, like anything new that opens in the South Coast, you can expect the cafe to be positively mobbed for a month or two which means long waits, grumpy customers, and some few Karens and Darrens causing delays. Please be easy on the baristas and exercise some patience!


Matthew Velez photo.


Matthew Velez photo.




Lifestream Inc. Awards $2000 Scholarship to Fairhaven Graduate

Kylie Ellis of Achusnet, Massachusetts, was selected as the 2022 recipient of the $2,000 Sandra M. Cabral Nursing Scholarship.

A graduate of Fairhaven High School, Ms. Ellis is currently studying nursing at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut. For the past five years, she has held various positions at YMCA Southcoast, most currently as a Unit Leader working with children, including those with physical and developmental disabilities.
“Among all our applicants, Kylie stood out for her commitment to working with children and her academic record,” said LifeStream President/CEO Bonnie Mello. “We are so pleased to assist Kylie in her journey to become a nurse and congratulate her on her accomplishments.”

The scholarship, established in 2000, honors the noteworthy contributions to the field of nursing made by former LifeStream employee Sandra M. Cabral, who was a registered nurse and nursing coordinator. Eligible applicants must be pursuing a Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse degree at an accredited facility and be able to demonstrate a firm commitment to assisting people with disabilities in community-based settings currently or upon graduation.

Congratulations, Kylie!

Learn more about Lifestream by visiting their website: https://www.lifestreaminc.com/




Mirasol’s Cafe inches closer to opening third location in Fairhaven

Last June we shared with you the story that the popular Mirasol’s Cafe would be opening a third location in Fairhaven.

It hasn’t been a full year since the coffee shop opened their second location at the Wharfinger Building at 52 Fisherman’s Wharf located on Pier 3, downtown New Bedford.

The New Bedford location utilizes a sort of “grab-and-go” model. The “walk-through” window comprises 25% of their revenue alone and since the New Bedford location is less than 1/3 of the size of the Dartmouth location, indoor seating simply wasn’t an option. However, being so close to Rt. 18 means you can be in and out, hit the road for your work commute, or decide to grab your Chippi and stroll around downtown.

Luis Raposo, one of Mirasol’s managing partners, said that the cafe will soon open a third location in the old Benny’s building bringing their famous Chippi, delicious lattes, batidos, and of course, Latin-themed sandwiches. The artist’s renditon of the planned site shows it is a larger building than the New Bedford location and more along the size of the Dartmouth location. That means a return to the “old” Dartmouth version which had plenty of rooms for tables inside and on the patio.

There is hope for a drive-thru, something Mirasol’s owners and customers alike would benefit, however that happening depends entirely on the town’s approval.


Mirasol’s Cafe photo.


Mirasol’s Cafe photo.


Mirasol’s Cafe photo.




Farmers’ Markets in Massachusetts and R.I. that will remain open this winter

There is nothing more fresh than locally grown foods. Local Farmer of Stoney Creek, Erin Babbitt, has been organizing her market located in Swansea, MA at 1210 Wilbur Avenue for eight years and counting.

“I raise beef cows right at the farm, and I am one of the vendors selling beef at my own market,” said Babbitt.


Cow at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

During the spring and summer months, there is a surplus of produce, including berries, tomatoes, corn, and lettuce. Babbitt told the reporter that there are no fruits being produced during the winter. However, there are potatoes, squash and kale for sale. Hours of operation this winter are the third Saturday of each month, from December through April, at 10am-2pm.


Big tent at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

“We are a locally sourced market, so everything that we sell at our farm is maker only. We don’t do outside sales of any kind. We have a honey lady, a spice lady and a mushroom man,” said Babbitt.

Stoney Creek participates in the Healthy Incentives Program, (HIP) for produce sales only. This market also supports the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, (SNAP) which covers produce and honey sales.

Babbitt will be hosting a holiday event this month! On Dec. 17, there will be a hayride with Santa from 10am-2pm. A campfire will be lit for s’mores to be roasted. Hot chocolate is complimentary. Children are welcome for pony rides and the hayride, as well as a photo with Santa, all for just $10.00 per child.

Anyone can visit the farm any day and walk around to greet the cows, goats, rabbits and many other animal friends.


Horse at at Stoney Creek. Bailey Bisson photo.

Babbitt also has a horse boarding business at the farm. “People keep their horses with me. I have 18 horses on the farm. We do birthday parties here.”

Stoney Creek offers pony rides during regular market hours, for just $3.00.

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Another local farmers market is Mount Hope Farm in Bristol, RI.


Bailey Bisson photo.

“Mount Hope Farm itself has a rich history in the town of Bristol dating back to the Pokanokets. The Farmers Market at the farm was established around 10 years ago,” said Katie Blais, community programs and events manager.

This farm is home to donkeys, goats, and chickens.

According to Blais, Mount Hope has a variety of foods for sale during the winter months, including apples, microgreens, baked goods, meat, eggs, seafood, cheese, maple syrup, coffee, and candles. They even sell shoes!

The Mount Hope Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 9am-12:30pm, and the walking trails are open 8am-6pm daily, excluding holidays. However, there are no pets allowed.


View at Mount Hope. Bailey Bisson photo.




Southcoast Neediest Families Prize-a-Palooza Returns on Sunday Dec. 4th in New Bedford

The Southcoast Neediest Families Prize-a-Palooza will be held on Sunday, December 4th. 12p-8p at Whaler Inn and Suites 500 Hathaway Road New Bedford. Stop by for an all day, family friendly, free admission, prize raffle event. All food and prizes are donated by local (and some national) companies. There will be over 250 prizes to raffle off throughout the day every hour, as well as the “Big Prize raffle” that goes on all day. Some of the “Big Prizes” include a week long Maine House Rental, A book of scratch tickets valued at $500 , an Ipad with a keyboard case and wireless mouse, a Meta-Quest Virtual Reality headset, A Michael Kors Handbag, a Nintendo Switch video game system, Red Sox tickets, Celtics tickets, An overnight stay at Bayside Resort, a suit from Professional Image, Avalon Spa treatments, unique liquor items such as a 19 Crimes Snoop Dog cooler and wine, a Tito’s ugly sweater set and much more.

Some of the Big Prize raffle items will be available to purchase on-line by clicking the attached link: https://neartail.com/public/115575994388615696979/all/form/1FAIpQLScnGELNR1x3NVbpgrBk3zNH4rW_DQNn-cZKChOJTfo9HhopbQ
You can also scan the QR Code:

You do not need to be present to win but you will need to be available to pick up if you do win. Follow the event on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/747097016605053 to stay updated!

You can also win lots of other raffle prizes including: restaurant gift cards such as Servedwell (Joe’s original, Black Whale and Cisco) cards, Lorenzo’s, Bocca, Cask and Pig, Brewfish, Dillon’s Restaurant, Lolly’s Café, Spa Larimar gift card, liquor baskets, kids baskets, handmade items, lots and lots of gift baskets, gas cards, lottery tickets and so much more…

DJ Joe Lima will be back for the 8th year and volunteering his time, there will be a visit from Santa sometime between 1p and 4p and the kids can enjoy have face painting and crafts (and big kids too!). Spin the prize wheel that goes all day until the prizes run out; that’s always a big hit!

We will have food throughout the day available for our guests. Food is donated by Joe’s Original, Pa Raffa’s, McDonalds (Kings Hway, Hathaway Road and Faunce Corner Road), GNB Voke, Dominos Pizza, MyPlace Restaurant, Palace Pizza, Little Phoenix, Ryan’s Pub, and the Salvation Army.

All money raised goes to support children and families in need for the holidays through the Salvation Army. This year they have a goal of $35,000 but they would love to hit $40,000! The Salvation Army helps out over 2000 families in need for Christmas. The money raised would help provide food, toys and clothing for between 300-400 children. This is our 8th year that the event has been run by Southcoast Neediest Families Prize-a-Palooza and the organiation has been able to raise between $25,000 and $35,000 each year!

Can you help spread the word? They are still looking for Prize and food donors for this years event. Any donor will be listed in our donor flyer and we are always willing to promote businesses by handing out business cards or any other provided materials. Anyone wishing to donate can contact Kristen Lancaster at 774-263-1412 or by emailing neediest1970@gmail.com. For more information and to stay up-to-date with prizes and information, check out their Facebook Page South Coast Neediest Families Prize-a-Palooza.




The AHEAD Company Store is Opening to Shoppers on November 18th in New Bedford

Every 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 three weekends 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.

Here is a graphic with the store hours for the 2022 Holiday Season:

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

https://www.facebook.com/aheadusa




The New Bedford Festival Theatre announces historic 33rd season!

New Bedford Festival Theatre announces historic 33rd season!

New Bedford Festival Theatre and Executive Producer Wendy Hall along with Artistic Director George Charbonneau and Associate Artistic Director Elizabeth Bettencourt have announced the company’s 33rd season. Festival Theatre will now be producing shows year-round. In this historic season, Festival Theatre will move from a single summer production to a full season of three (3) major musical
productions starting in November 2022.

The Festival Theatre kicks off the holiday season with Irving Berlin’s White Christmas for 8 performances only!

Based on the classic holiday film; a song and dance duo follow two beautiful singing sisters to a Vermont inn for their Christmas show. This holiday classic features a dazzling score filled with well known standards including the Academy Award winning title song. White Christmas is an uplifting musical to celebrate the holidays.

Performances:November 26, December 1,2,& 3 at 8:00pm and November 26,27, December 3 &
4 at 2:00pm.
—–
The Broadway classic The Wiz with Music and Lyrics by Charlie Smalls will “Ease on down…” to the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center for 5 performances.
A beloved Broadway gem, The Wiz offers a dazzling mix of rock, gospel, and soul music. This timeless tale of Dorothy’s adventures through the land of Oz is a fun,
family-friendly modern musical.

Performances: April 27, 28, 29 at 8:00pm and April 28 and 30 at 2:00pm.
—–
A summer tradition returns! Andrew Lloyd Webber’s smash hit musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for 8 performances! One of the most enduring shows of all time. Joseph… is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers, and the coat of many colors. Performances: July 21, 22, 27, 28, 29 at 7:00 PM and July 23,29,and 30 at 2:00 PM.

Single Tickets: Ranging from $39-$65

Season Subscriptions: All 3 shows for one low price! Ranging from $110-$160 per person.

Single Tickets and Subscriptions are now on sale online at zeiterion.org, by phone (508)994-2900, or in person at the Zeiterion Box Office.

For more information: Please visit www.nbfestivaltheatre.com




New Bedford Festival Theatre celebrates 50 years of Performing Arts with “Welcome to the Theatre!”

New Bedford Festival Theatre presents Welcome to the Theatre! 50 years of Performing Arts in Our City; a Tribute to Armand Marchand and George Charbonneau. The event will take place on October 22, 2022 at 7:00 PM at New Bedford High School’s Phillip Bronspiegel Auditorium.

In 1972, the “new” New Bedford High School opened with the promise that Broadway caliber plays and musicals would be presented by Marchand and Charbonneau on the stage of its brand new auditorium… New Bedford has never been the same.

From 1972-2001 Marchand and Charbonneau produced and directed 60 plays and musicals on the stage of the Phillip Bronspiegel Auditorium at New Bedford High School.
In September 1982 Marchand and Charbonneau began their 40 year association with the Zeiterion Theatre starting with the reopening night of the historic downtown theatre featuring Shirley Jones: In concert.

In the summer of 1983 the New Bedford High School Drama Club production of Jesus Christ Superstar was chosen to transfer to the stage of the Zeiterion Theatre, and in 1984 Marchand and Charbonneau were hired as co-directors of Zeiterion Summer Musicals from 1984-1989. In 1990 Marchand founded New Bedford Festival Theatre which is now entering its 33rd Season as the area’s only professional theatre devoted to musical theatre.

Welcome to the Theatre! will be a full evening’s entertainment including:
● The premier of Legends Among Us, a short documentary film about Marchand and Charbonneau shot in November 2019.
● Musical performances.
● Special tributes from alumni and special guests.
● A preview of the exhibit:
“Looking Back/ Looking Forward: 50 years of Performing Arts in Our City; a tribute to Armand Marchand and George Charbonneau.

Welcome to the Theatre! One Night Only! October 22, 2022 7:00 PM
at New Bedford High School’s Phillip Bronspiegel Auditorium. General Admission Seats are $25
All proceeds will benefit Festival Theatre’s Summer Academy Scholarship Fund and New Bedford High School Drama Club.

Tickets can be purchased online at nbfestivaltheatre.com, by phone (508) 994-2900, or in person at the Zeiterion Box Office 684 Purchase Street New Bedford, MA 02740.




5th Annual Nicole Podkowa 5K to take place on Sunday Oct. 9th

Southcoast Health is thrilled to host the 5th Annual Nicole Podkowa 5k Run/Walk in person this year! The race will take place at the Southcoast Health Cancer Center in Fairhaven, MA at 9 am on Sunday, October 9, 2022.

For those that cannot participate in person but would still like to participate, you may still register and run/walk your 5K in the comfort of your own neighborhood, treadmill or local park.

Proceeds raised through this event will support the Nicole Podkowa Cancer Patient and Caregiver’s Assistance Fund. This unique fund supports patients being treated at the Southcoast Health Cancer Centers and their families who are in need of financial assistance to help with utility payments, food, housing, transportation, cancer related supplies and other necessities.

How to Participate in the 5K:

Step 1: Register by clicking HERE. By completing the registration form you are agreeing to both the media and liability release information found at the bottom of this page. Registrations can be made until 9am on October 9th, 2022.
Register Today!

Registration Fee

$35 adults
$25 youth (under 18 years of age)

Each registered participant will receive a long-sleeve Podkowa 5K race shirt as a thank you!

Registrants will receive their participant shirt upon check-in at race day. For those participating virtually, please contact philanthropy@southcoast.org or 508-973-5353 and we would be happy to mail it to you.

Step 2: Invite your family and friends to join you in completing the 5K and encourage them to register!

Step 3: Spread the word on social media! Hashtag #Podkowa5K2022 and tag @SouthcoastHlth when you post videos and photos of you participating is the 5K.

Step 4: Participants who are participating virtually can submit their time (picture of fitness device time) to philanthropy@southcoast.org for the top finisher in the following categories:

Top Male
Top Female
Top Senior Male (65+)
Top Senior Female (65+)




The Pasta House to Close for Renovations and Re-brand with New Name & Updated Menu

Earlier today on their Facebook page, ‘The Pasta House’ shared the following:

“Our crew is ready for the last Sunday at The Pasta House! Be sure to join us this week before we close for renovations starting Sunday, September 18th.

“Just to clarify for everyone asking – YES, we will still honor all Pasta House gift cards! We are the same restaurant you know & love with the same amazing owners, staff, and menu. We will just be operating as the new brand, BOCCA. We can’t wait for everyone to see this amazing vision come to life!”

What say you, readers? Are you excited about the change? What favorites do you hope they keep on the new menu? Feel free to chime in!