As a mom, I am always looking for great ways to entertain and enlighten my son without bankrupting myself, and recently, I found one such way after spending an afternoon at The Buttonwood Park Zoo. Since my son and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit, I decided that membership to the BPZ would be a fantastic investment in family fun! One which would guarantee to offer a different adventure every time we visited! You and your family just might feel the same.
Not only will your kids enjoy unlimited trips to the zoo, but your wallet will, as well! Think about it, for a family of four, say two adults and two children, the price tag of a single days admission to the BPZ is about $18 (food, rides, souvenirs, etc.). For a typical family that goes to the zoo four times, that’s $72 a year, base. If you are not a New Bedford resident you’re looking at about $24 a day, equating to somewhere around $96 per year! However, if you become a Buttonwood Park Zoological Society member, like us, your family is charged a flat rate of $55, saving New Bedford residents around $17 a year, and non-New Bedford residents about $41! And as a bonus, your membership money goes right back into funding the zoo and its programs!
Basic monetary savings aside, as a member of the BPZ, your family will be treated to free, year round animal access, discounted rates on zoo birthday parties, and invitations to members-only events! Additional perks include:
10% Discount at North Woods gift store
Special online notices of Zoo programs and events
Reciprocal Benefits at more than 140 Zoos and Aquariums across the United States
That’s right, kids! Flash your membership card at the Franklin Park Zoo in Boston or the Stone Zoo in Stoneham and get 50% off your admission! And if you’ve been thinking about taking a trip to The Museum of Science, go for it! Because as a member of the BPZ, your family will get free admission there, too! And who doesn’t love free science?!
So, to recap, not only does your membership allow you to experience a full year of fun, adventure, and great discounts (locally and otherwise), but your membership dollars also help to support the Zoo’s conservation and education programs! It’s win/win for everyone!
What are you waiting for? Head on over to the BPZ today, and snag the membership that best fits you!
Family: Includes up to two adults named on membership card and their children under the age of 18 – $55.00.
Grandparents: Includes up to two adults named on card and their grandchildren under the age of 18 – $55.00.
Individual: One adult named on membership card – $45.00.
Student: One student named on membership card (requires copy of valid student I.D.) – $40.00.
Senior: One adult age 62 or older named on membership card – $40.00.
Plus you may add guests to any category for an additional $10 per guest.
**Please note that the guest must be accompanied by an adult named on the card.
The Zoo accepts MasterCard and Visa at the front gate for ticket purchases and MasterCard, Visa and Discover at the Café and Gift Shop.
Summer Hours: March – September: 9:00am – 5:00pm, daily (with the last admission at 4:15pm)
For more information and updates on the zoo, be sure to check out their website and give their Facebook a ‘like,’ and stay in the loop!
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Something New At An Old Icon: Buttonwood Park Zoo
by Amanda Lawrence
Summer is in full effect and with my list of fun time activities growing smaller and smaller, my son and I begin to acknowledge the bleak notion that we may, in fact, lose our minds. A mind is a terrible thing to waste, let alone two! So, in order to quell the stuck-at-home blues, I suggest to him we take a trip to the Buttonwood Park Zoo, and away we go!
A little fun fact about the BPZ, it happens to be the oldest, continually operating zoo in Massachusetts. Pretty neat, huh? Owned and operated by the City of New Bedford, and supported by the nonprofit Buttonwood Park Zoological society, its’ primary theme, From the Berkshires to the Sea, focuses on the land and water based wildlife found mainly around North America; with the exception of the Asian elephants, of course!
With nearly 200 species to care for, the BPZ staff has placed a special emphasis on creating natural habitats for the animals, comparable to those found in the wild. The charismatic River Otters, the majestic Harbor Seals, and the sleepy Black Bears are just a few of the many animals you’ll encounter on your journey. And once you cross the adorable covered bridge and head into the Buttonwood Farm, you’ll mingle with the goats, smile at the horses, and speculate what that gang of chickens is really up to. We bet it’s no good!
The Zoo’s Wildlife Education Center and Zookeeper Staff offer a full range of programs for children of all ages! Animal Encounters allows people the opportunity to chat with the zoo keepers and experience the bears, elephants, or seals in a more up-close and personal setting. Zoo Nights gives visitors a fresh and unique perspective on the animals they only ever see during the day, who, like some people, are less active in the summer heat. The animals are definitely more alert, and as a bonus, you get to roam the zoo at night! It’s super fun! I know, because my son and I have done it! For groups of 20+ people there’s Flashlight Adventures, Critter Camp-ins, and Twilight Tours; all excellent ways to experience the zoo in nontraditional ways!
If, by chance, your family should find themselves at the zoo on a Monday, my son and I would most definitely recommend catching one of the Toe Jam Puppet Band’s famous shows. Located by the elephants, weather permitting, or inside the cafeteria building, admission is just $5 additional dollars for all the singing and dancing you can muster! And be sure to say “hi” to Tom and Vinny for us before heading out to catch a ride on the zoo train, or hopping aboard the Wildlife Carousel!
When you’ve finally hit that point where your feet begin to ache and your attention starts to wane, stop into the Bear’s Den Café and take a load off. Reflect on your joyful experience and be thankful for it. You’ll be refreshed and ready to return another time; or perhaps even make one last trip around the zoo before you leave to bid the animal’s farewell.
For those of you who worry that a trip to the zoo might not be in your budget, head on over to one of New Bedford’s libraries and reserve a pass for your family. The pass includes a one day admission for up to four people, free of charge! And while you’re there, be sure to pick up a few zoological themed books (to get your little ones even more excited), and Dig Into Reading
So when boredom hits your household and you fear your children may usurp, thwart their revolution with a visit to the Buttonwood Park Zoo! It’s a wonderful way to fill the day with fun, education, and the great outdoors; all while being surrounded by beautiful animals, passionate people, and the ones you love.
Summer Hours are March – September: 9:00am – 5:00pm, daily (with the last admission at 4:15pm)
New Bedford Resident Admission (Must show proof of New Bedford Residency)
Adult: $6
Senior/Student: $4.50
Child (Ages 3-12): $3
Child Under Age 3: FREE
Parking: Free
Non-Resident Admission
Adult: $8
Senior/Student: $6
Child (Ages 3-12): $4
Child Under Age 3: FREE
The Zoo accepts MasterCard and Visa at the front gate for ticket purchases and MasterCard, Visa and Discover at the Café and Gift Shop.
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Interview with Yoga in the Park’s Däna Brown
by Amanda Lawrence
Yoga has been rapidly gaining fans over the past few years as a form of exercise and relaxation; however, while I see many excited individuals clutching their yoga mats, I also encounter dozens of people, myself included, who are still slightly reluctant to commit to yoga for one reason or another. Personally, I’m about as graceful as a rock, and still a little bashful about wiggling my chakras. But lately I’ve discovered something wonderful about my self-limits: I have none! So, when Däna (pronounced Donna, don’t let that wonky little umlaut fool you) Brown approached me about bringing my butt back to her Yoga in the Park classes, I decided to take the opportunity to find out why she was so persistent before I relented. And I couldn’t be happier that I did!
Amanda: So Miss Däna with the umlaut, what was your first introduction to yoga?
Däna: For as long as I can remember I always had an infatuation with flexible people… gymnasts, contortionists, and yogis. They always looked so free to me. In my mid twenties, when yoga seemed to just be hitting the mainstream, I picked up a video and went from there. My posture and back pain were getting progressively worse and I thought that trying yoga might bring some relief. It was a basic video from Tracey Rich and Ganga White – straightforward with no bells and whistles. It did its job and it did it well.
Däna completed a 240-hour Hatha Yoga certification.
Amanda: So, how long after that did you decide to dedicate yourself to yoga, personally and professionally?
Däna: My personal practice was on and off for quite a few years, but you sort of get these little epiphanies throughout your practice. Even though I didn’t practice, or even think about it on a daily basis in the beginning, the more epiphanies and little changes that came about, the more my dedication increased. My pains, my depression, my insecurities, all began to gradually fade. About eight years after I first picked up that video, a confident outgoing and genuinely happy person showed up. That’s when I decided I wanted to help other people feel as good as I felt. Three years ago I started teaching some friends in my living room and out in the park. They would give me such positive feedback and tell me how their physical issues were starting to fade, too. They needed their weekly yoga.
I felt like I finally found the thing I was supposed to be doing! In 2011, I started my teacher training, in which I completed a 240-hour Hatha Yoga certification. I chose not to take my training at a specifically styled school, such as Bikram, Baptiste or Kripalu. While I feel that all of these styles offer something wonderful, I didn’t want to feel pigeon holed into teaching just one specific style. My classes are diverse, so you’ll see different aspects of many styles blending together.
Amanda: Why do you think some people, you know, me, for example, feel so intimidated by yoga? Do you have any tips on how I, um, they can overcome these fears?
Däna: (Laughing) I get so opinionated when it comes to how intimidating yoga can come across. I’ll try to control myself. When magazine covers, articles, and photos focus so much on pretzel poses, arm balancing, handstands, etc. it’s no wonder I hear fear in people’s voices when it comes to yoga. Don’t get me wrong, I love the challenge of these poses; they’re beautiful and DO have a purpose, but even after 10 years of practice I don’t do many of them. They are not the focus of my practice, nor do they need to be the focus of anyone else’s practice if they do not want them to be. Sometimes, I feel like that idea gets lost amongst mainstream advertising, and people feel like they can’t do yoga if they can’t be an arm balancing pretzel. Yoga meets you where you are. That’s what makes it amazing! Eventually, our bodies and minds open on many levels, but how far is up to you. That is the ideal I try to present in my classes. Yoga really IS for everybody. Take those magazine cover poses and look at them as inspiration for how amazing the human machine can be and then let it go and be yourself.
Amanda: What are some of the benefits of incorporating yoga into your life and fitness routine?
Däna: I’ll start with the positive things that have happened to me. As I said earlier, my back pain and depression disappeared. My posture has been corrected. I keep sciatica flare ups manageable to most of the time nonexistent. Stress and anxiety are no longer a plague – it has just made me better equipped to handle the things that come my way in my life. I now know what joy really feels like.
Yoga increases flexibility, balance and strength, which keeps the aging process graceful. It keeps the body supple which decreases your chance of injuries in daily life, and also in other fitness activities you may engage in. It’s a great way to balance your body if you do a lot of strength training, or other types of workouts that tend to shorten the muscles. It has helped people I know who have carpal tunnel issues and runner’s knee issues. I wouldn’t say Yoga is a cure all, but it definitely helps keep the body and mind in check.
The first Yoga in the Park class will be Wednesday June 27th and will go until August 29th.
Amanda: Being part hippie, I’m loving the idea of hosting yoga in the park. Can you tell me a little about how it’s going to go?
Däna: I am absolutely excited to be offering Yoga in the Park classes again! It’s like giving yourself permission to play outside. The combination of fresh air and organic ground under your feet is comparable to none. These classes will be an hour-long vinyasa style. We’ll get moving in a nice flow for the first half and then slow it down for a mellower second half. All of my classes are for all levels of experience. I teach poses in stages so that beginners have a solid place to start and more experienced practitioners have a deeper direction to move. These classes are donation based with a suggested donation of $5. My goal is to have every aspect of these classes accessible to everyone. The location is Buttonwood Park. We’ll meet behind the greenhouse across the road from the pond. I have a few extra mats that can be used on a first come first serve basis.
The first class will be Wednesday June 27th and will go until August 29th, weather permitting. Class will not be held on the fourth of July. Attendees should arrive at 6pm to sign in and settle. The class will start promptly at 6:15 and end at 7:15. I’m also hoping to have a treat of some acoustic music for a couple of classes.
Amanda: Do you have any additional advice for beginners who may still be a bit leery of becoming a yogi?
Däna: Yes. Jump in, the water’s fine! You never know what you can do, or what you will like until you try. And don’t worry, you can stop whenever you want, but I don’t think you will. *wink*
For more information on Yoga in the Park, check out Däna’s Facebook page: Art and Asana – Däna LeAnne Yoga (http://www.facebook.com/ArtAndAsana)
Namaste.
Instructor’s Name: Däna Brown
Contact: Rocketblues@gmail.com
Yoga Location: Buttonwood Park
Payment Options: Cash donations beginning at $5 are appreciated
Owner’s Spotlight: The Hot Pink Health Coach
by Amanda Lawrence
I first met Pamela Whipple, or Bunny as she is known to her friends, having a blast last summer at AHA: Kids Rule! Not only was her booth filled with an array of brightly colored, hand-made, hula hoops, but it was also swarming with interested people of all ages, hooping the night away. Since then, I have watched her passion for hooping spread like fire and ignite into the flame that is The Hot Pink Health Coach. When the opportunity to learn more about her, and her ever-pulsating pursuit of health and hoopi-ness presented itself to me, I jumped on the chance.
Amanda: What exactly is Hot Pink Health Coach all about, aside from its obvious title?
Pam: The Hot Pink Health Coach Company is a fun, creative and comprehensive approach to nutrition and fitness for women that hate the gym. This approach means that stress, sleep, finances, relationships, creativity and community are observed to assess the best solutions for the client. Each session and program is specifically tailored for the woman I’m working with. I support them with their goals step-by-step at a pace they can handle. These sessions include fit hoop lessons, healthy shopping, cooking classes, books, a binder with handouts, e-support, supplement guidance, organic health and beauty, and more. Women who have worked with me not only lost weight, but have more energy, as well as a fitness routine that they love.
Amanda: As someone who hates the gym, I must say that sounds pretty amazing! What are some of the other services you offer?
Pam: A few FREE services I provide are Chakra Opening and a Health History Consultation. Your first session with me is free to see if we would like to work together which comes with a bonus tip. Chakra Opening is a holistic way to balance energy throughout the body and a great way to get started. I’m also planning on starting a FREE hoop group, Fit Hoop Challenge, in Buttonwood Park this spring.
Workshops on various topics, such as Sugar Cravings, Eating for Energy, Women’s Health, Weigh Less, and Live More are FREE. Group classes are offered for a fee of $10. And a Sampler Session, in which you choose three specific categories that you would like to discuss and receive information on, is $20.
A Six Months to Living Program is $95 per month, and you receive the full benefits of group support, changing your relationship with food, and creating a life they you will love. Six months is the recommended amount of time to solidify new habits into your life.
Amanda: Free workshops and fit hoop lessons? I’m sold! But I have to know, how did you fist become involved with the Hooper lifestyle? I mean most people are familiar with toy hula hoops, but I am almost certain that hooping as exercise is as foreign a concept to them, as it was to me last year.
Pam: Three years ago a dear friend of mine gave me a hula hoop as a gift after we reconciled a misunderstanding. A few months later this dear friend passed away from cancer. This experience gave me the push to apply and attend The Institute of Integrative Nutrition. My classes were inspiring and full of information I needed, but I struggled with wanting to exercise. I don’t like to work out. I like to have fun. So I started to search for new ways to get moving. When I found Hoopnotica and Body Hoops it all came together. I couldn’t believe people were losing weight with their hula hoops! It was so fun!
I started with videos on YouTube because it was free. I also took a few classes with The Boston Hoop Troop. Within three months, I went from 140 pounds to 117.
Amanda: That’s so awesome! And now you make your own hoops! Could you tell me a little bit about some of the styles that you offer?
Pam: Our little shop offers hoops you can buy either online or in person at Ervanaria Estrela on Acushnet Ave in New Bedford. We offer fitness hoops, which are weighted to give you a great workout and they are much easier to keep up than toy hula hoops. We offer kids hoops as well! And this spring we will be releasing our first wave of LED hoops.
We decorate our hoops with special grip tape, glow tape, fabric and upcycled materials so our customers can create the hoop of their dreams. Our most popular hoops are the Purple Flash and the Tokidoki special edition.
Amanda: What are some important things to be aware of when choosing the right hoop?
Pam: When you choose a hoop, the most important part is choosing your size. Make sure that you have a hoop that will measure up to the mid chest area, especially if you are a beginner. Before you buy your hoop from someone, make sure that you message any questions you might have to the company. And most importantly, do not buy from someone that doesn’t return your emails in a timely fashion.
Amanda: I know you mentioned a free hoop group starting this spring, but would you mind briefly describing a hoop workout that is beginner friendly for the ambitious individual who can’t wait that long?
Pam: I recommend that people ready to start now pick up a hoop at a toy store and get on YouTube! If you are taller and much bigger than a child I recommend buying from us of course! Hoopnotica and Body Hoops are also great places to buy. Body Hoops has the best videos on YouTube for a beginner aerobic work out.
Good luck and Happy Hooping Everyone!
For more information on Pam’s workshops, or if you want to learn more about fitness hooping check her out at: http://hotpinkhealthcoach.com.
Location: 78 Wing Road, Acushnet, MA 02743 Phone: 508-348-4375 Payment Options: Cash, Credit/Debit, or Pay Pal accounts. Owner’s Name: Pamela Whipple
Holiday Gift Ideas for Teachers
by Amanda Lawrence
Tick. Tick. Tick.
That’s the sound of your advent calendar running out, cruelly reminding you that the holidays are approaching fast, and just like last year, you are ill prepared. But don’t fret, my friends! We here at the New Bedford Guide understand that the most wonderful time of the year can also be one of the most stressful times, both financially and emotionally; especially for the parents of young children. Financially stressful for obvious reasons and, well, emotionally stressful in part because there is nothing like a solid week of no school to make parents realize just how much they value the amazing gift that keeps on giving – their child’s teachers!
I mean think about it, have YOU ever successfully taught a class full of animated first graders how to write a coherent sentence, or understand the basics of mathematics? No? Me either, and frankly I don’t even want to imagine a world where I would be subjected to such tasks. I would rather spend a week locked in a room with the cast of The Jersey Shore while watching non-stop marathons of the Kardashians on a 19″ TV.
Teachers are some of the most patient, calm, understanding, and devoted individuals I have ever met. Most of all, they really love what they do. Being an educator is no easy feat. It’s a calling; one that I personally hung up on several times throughout my college years. Which is why the men and women of this profession should be appreciated for all that they do. And what better way to show the people who spend about nine months a year with your child just how grateful you are for their existence than a small token of your appreciation around the holidays.
I’m fully aware that times are tough, and when giving gifts it really is the thought that counts, but c’mon, how much thought did you really put into that ‘World’s Greatest Teacher’ mug you grabbed from the supermarket the night before your child’s holiday party last year?
Teachers do not need any more coffee mugs, cheap lotion sets from the dollar store, or cheesy stuffed animals holding plastic flowers. Seriously. So, after speaking with some other parents and educator friends of mine, I have compiled a handful of suggestions to help you show your child’s teacher that you truly value them as an individual, and not just a name to cross off a list.
Homemade presents, such as cards or ornaments are awesome! Gift cards to places like Target or Amazon are probably the easiest, most versatile present you can give to someone whom you may not know personally. Coffee gift cards are also wonderful! And while Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts are prevalent, I’m partial to supporting local businesses. Mirasol’s Cafe in Dartmouth, a cafe in downtown New Bedford, and Flour Girls in Fairhaven are just a few of my favorite suggestions!
Additional gift ideas:
gourmet chocolate
movie theater tickets
age appropriate books for the classroom
personalized stationary
diamonds
Some gifts to avoid:
Mugs of any kind
cleaning supplies
body wash sets
candles
re-gifted anything
perfumes or body sprays
framed 8×10 portraits of your child
stale fruitcake
forever lazy™
Alright, I added forever lazy™ to the list, but only as an example of why the things that we may enjoy might not be the best idea for a teacher’s gift. I mean what hip mom on the go doesn’t want to end her day shroud in a heap of comfy, yet fashionable fleece footie pajamas . . right?
All joking aside, remember folks, teachers give our children more than just their knowledge and time. Over the course of the year they come to know and love our children, dedicating themselves to helping us mold these young individuals into decent and intelligent functioning members of society. This is evidenced by the giving of homework, the constant encouragement, and persistent support in the face of the many difficult obstacles that may arise throughout the semester.
With that being said, this holiday season I’ve decided that both of my son’s teachers will be receiving a heartfelt letter of appreciation from myself, along with a handmade card containing a $10 gift card from my son. I’m even contemplating throwing in a bonus bottle of wine, because I’m sure they need a drink after dealing with a room full of first graders all week. I certainty would!
The Orpheum
by Amanda Lawrence
The Orpheum opened its doors to New Bedford on April 15, 1912, and proceeded to flourished throughout the decades that followed. Originally created by an organization known as The French Sharpshooters Club, The Orpheum not only hosted live theatre productions, but also showed popular films and newsreels. Its grand ballroom held dances, receptions, and socials, all while The French Sharpshooters themselves were training World War II recruits in the buildings very own rifle range. Unfortunately, as the fifties came to a close, so did the livelihood of The Orpheum.
Growing up in the New Bedford area, I can remember driving past The Orpheum countless times and always wondering about its purpose, and its past. So when the opportunity to explore this mysterious building presented itself to me, I jumped at the chance. I was fortunate enough to be invited to tour the building by Mr. Lance Gunberg, president of O.R.P.H, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to reviving The Orpheum.
In the brief amount of time I spent with him, Mr. Gunberg filled my head with passionate explanations of what once was, and brilliant ideas for what could be. I was smitten with his dreams for this decaying piece of New Bedford’s history. Never have I met a man so devoted to his organization, and it is because of his infectious attitude that I am pleased to share with you his eloquent words.
Amanda: I would like to start out with a little back story about the Sharpshooter’s Hall, as well as The Orpheum. Could you please tell me a little bit about the history of the building and its place in historical New Bedford. Lance: The French Sharpshooter’s Club was a French Canadian men’s benevolent organization consisting of rifle marksman who would meet and compete with similar groups and organizations throughout the East Coast of the United States, as well as Canada. The group would help French Canadian immigrants (who at one time made up over a quarter of New Bedford’s population) in times of need.
As their ranks began to grow in number, the organization divided into two distinct groups: Guard Number One and Guard Number Two, or the North End Branch and the South End Branch. Over time, the organization expanded and decided to build a community center and theatre that could be used by all.
The French Sharpshooter’s Hall, or Salle Francs-Tireurs, began construction at 1005 South Water Street in 1910, and would ultimately take 2 years to construct, finishing in 1912. It was designed in the Beaux-Arts Style by famed New Bedford architect, Louis Destremps. Destremps designed a beautiful façade, complete with four muse heads in relief, as well as other ornate relief details finished in glazed terra-cotta on a red brick background. The top of each muse head was adorned with a Greek-style torch that would illuminate the face of the building at night. The building housed, among other things, office space, meeting rooms, assembly rooms, a gymnasium, a grand ballroom, a sharpshooters firing range and of course, the gorgeous Orpheum Theatre.
In its original configuration, The Orpheum was built as a 1,500 seat Vaudeville house. The theatre also began to show films when movies eventually eclipsed live performances in popularity. The theatre was part of the original Keith-Albee Circuit and featured many great performers during its heyday. It opened the very same evening the RMS Titanic was steaming toward her tragic end.
What exactly is the organization known as the Orpheum Rising Project Helpers, or O.R.P.H, Inc.,? And why did you decide to not only get involved, but eventually become its president? Lance: O.R.P.H., Inc. is a non-profit organization that was incorporated to preserve the Orpheum Theatre. The group holds fundraisers and tours of the theatre to help raise awareness as to the condition of the building and what the hall meant to the city of New Bedford and the community at large. It was after a fundraiser at Gallery X, titled Eye on the Orpheum, that featured a gallery of photographs taken by local photographers, as well as artifacts from its past. I had just completed my short film, Orpheum Rising, and it premiered during that show.
Shortly after, O.R.P.H., Inc.’s original president, Chuck Hauck, felt it was time to step down after successfully heading the group for nearly six years. I was approached by a number of our members who asked me to consider taking the helm. Shortly thereafter, I was voted in as the new president. We also have all new officers: The vice president’s position, originally held by Ricardo Santos, has been filled by Frank C. Grace. The secretary’s position, formerly held by Colin Williams, is now filled by Shannon Farrell and the treasurer’s position, which was also held by Colin Williams, was filled by Rev. Russ Chamberlain.
How is O.R.P.H, Inc raising money to fund the theaters restoration? Lance: We are currently raising money and awareness by holding fundraisers and occasional tours of the building. Although the funds raised are used primarily to keep our organization running, by means of community outreach materials, insurance policies, attorney fees and other costs associated with running a non-profit organization, we are not currently raising funds for restoration as of this time because the theatre is not owned by our group.
Is it possible for local residents to get involved with this project. If so, how? Lance: Yes. We would love to have the community involved in our project! We are always looking for new members, as well as volunteers and support people for our various endeavors. In the future, if our efforts are successful, we will need a huge outpouring of support, volunteerism and donations to keep our efforts afloat. Anyone interested in joining O.R.P.H., Inc., or for further information about us and the history of the building, please visit: www.orphinc.org. The documentary film can also be viewed on the website as well.
What is the current status on this project? Lance: Currently, our attorney is in talks with the attorney of the owner of the building to purchase the theatre portion of the building. This can be done by working out a condominium contract, thereby giving our organization the legal documentation we will need in order to move forward with the restoration of the theatre and its surrounding ancillary rooms and the grand ballroom. Also, a formal agreement is necessary to begin securing grant funding on the state and federal level.
Finally: If O.R.P.H, Inc. does secure ownership of Sharpshooter’s Hall/The Orpheum, what do you envision for its future? Lance: We are very aware that many in New Bedford think we plan to become another performing arts center, like the Zeiterion Theatre, but that is not the case.
Part of our outreach is to educate the public about what our ultimate goal is for the theatre. We envision creating a community theatre that would be utilized by local theatre groups, to stage their productions. We would also love to have local schools use the facility to stage their productions as well. It would be a great teaching tool, as it is the second oldest Orpheum Theatre in the country and is a prime example of an early American Vaudeville and movie venue with a rich history. The ballroom would be rented out for dances, receptions, fundraisers, etc. The ancillary rooms will be utilized by local multi-cultural community groups and organizations for meetings, presentations and fundraisers.
The original seats still fill the Orpheum Theatre.
Of course, there is much work to be done and the support of the community at large, as well as other civic and preservation organizations, will become even more important in the near future. Far too often we have heard that ours is a pipe dream; an impossible project that has no chance for success. The way we look at is, if nothing is done, nothing happens. There is always the possibility of failure with any venture in life, large or small. However, doing nothing at this point just guarantees that failure.
The reconstruction of Route 18 is now underway, and it will eventually make its way to the South End of New Bedford. The French Sharpshooters Hall sits a few feet from the edge of the current highway. If we can begin to get funds coming in and get work started on rehabilitation, we feel that the construction that will eventually be done on that portion of the highway, will benefit the infrastructure of that area (of the Orpheum Theatre). By creating a more people-friendly space and by reconnecting the neighborhoods that were cut off by its original design, we will once again return the French Sharpshooters Hall and Orpheum Theatre to the residents of those neighborhoods.
Perhaps even portions of the original “Orpheum Plaza” plan, that can be viewed on our website and were introduced by our organization many years before the proposed reconstruction of Route 18 began, will be incorporated into the final design. We feel that the time is right to take advantage of this opportunity and to see it become a reality. One thing we do know. If the city loses this historic theatre, it loses an integral part of its very rich and diverse past and a piece of true American history, that can never be recreated.
Thanks for your time Lance.
Today, The Orpheum is much like a sleeping giant. The former bustling beauty now lays dormant, as if frozen in time. The theatre’s interior is caked in dust, old oil canisters sit on the floor of the screening room, and broken furniture is carelessly strewn about. Yet the entire building still feels alive, practically humming, like a social ghost just waiting for its life to be restored. And Mr. Gunberg is just the man to do it. His enthusiasm and drive remind me of an anonymous quote, which I feel perfectly describes the situation at The Orpheum.
“A pessimist is a person who is always right but doesn’t get any enjoyment out of it, while an optimist, is one who imagines that the future is uncertain. It is a duty to be an optimist, because if you imagine that the future is uncertain, then you must do something about it.”
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Owner Spotlight: The Celtic Coffee House
by Amanda Lawrence
Company Name: The Celtic Coffee House
Location: 42 North Water Street & 49 State Pier (located in the Fast Ferry Terminal), New Bedford, MA.
Hours of Operation:
Mon – Sat: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm. Sun: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Payment Options:
Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover
Owner Full Name: Philip Dwane
What made you decide to open a coffee house in downtown New Bedford?
Philip: I originally came to New Bedford in 2004, when I bought a house on James St. with a partner as a rehab project. That’s when I started to realize the potential that New Bedford had. I saw that it was really headed in the right direction. One thing I did notice is that at the lower end of Union street there was a need for a comfortable, home-like and friendly space, where people of the community could gather and do whatever they pleased. So I invested in the building that is now The Celtic and started work on what I had envisioned.
Would you briefly describe some of the history behind the building?
The building was originally built in 1825 and was home to the businesses of Fredrick Bryant and Lysander Washburn. A lot of the original detail was still in the building when we purchased it, so during renovation we saved as much of the old wood floors and beams as possible. We then recycled them and have incorporated them into the current interior design of The Celtic.
What differentiates The Celtic from other coffee shops?
I think that in many ways we offer something different to our customers because we have a unique blend of New Bedford’s history and the Celtic culture. These two factors, coupled with the hospitality we try to offer everyone that walks in the door, really sets us apart from other coffee shops.
What did your daily grind consist of in the pre-Celtic days?
My work before The Celtic hasn’t changed too much from what I do now. I am still actively involved in restoring historic buildings in the area as well as renovating new buildings. My son, Ryan, handles most of the day-to-day operation of The Celtic, which allows me to continue my work restoring buildings. I actually received The Sarah R. Delano Preservation Award for my work on this building, which I am very proud of.
As a coffee connoisseur, what are some of your favorite caffeinated concoctions?
I’m a pretty simple coffee drinker. In the morning I normally have a cup of the Aurora, which is our light roast. Then I have a Barry’s Irish Breakfast Tea towards noon, and a latte in the afternoon.
What does 2011 have in store for The Celtic Coffee House?
We are currently in the process of installing a full kitchen in our second location inside the Fast Ferry terminal. Last summer we did pastries and cold sandwiches at our main location and brought them down to the terminal daily, this year we will be making hot sandwiches by order as well as introducing ice cream. We also hope that we can continue to serve the Southeastern Massachusetts community with our hospitable service, delicious food, and inviting atmosphere, not only for 2011, but for many years to come.
Regardless of whether you’ve come to Celtic to read a book, do some homework, have a meeting, or just to enjoy one of their meals, the staff at Celtic want you to feel as comfortable as possible. You can stay as long as you’d like; don’t be chai!
Stop by The Celtic and be a part of their week-long celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, beginning March 10th and running through the 17th. Below is a list of activities planned for the week:
Thursday, March 10th (AHA! Night)
Aiofe Clancy, daughter of Bobby Clancy (of the renowned Clancy brothers), performing 2 sets, the first at 5:45pm and the second at 6:30pm.
Friday, March 11th
Shepard’s Pie and a roll: $9.95
With winter in full force, I often find myself searching for ways to alleviate my seasonal blues. I get so caught up in the negativity of winter that sometimes I forget it isn’t just about plummeting temperatures, icy roads, and long hours of television. Quite the contrary. Winter is about trying new things, perfecting old hobbies, and creating adventures. And what better place to have an adventure than our very downtown?
The Discovery Bay room at the Explorium.
There is something exciting about spending an afternoon uncovering the hidden gems your city has to offer. Just recently I had the pleasure of introducing myself to one such gem. New Bedford’s Ocean Explorium, a nonprofit organization established in 2008, is located by the seaport in historic downtown. The facility is housed in an elegant building on the corner of Purchase and Union streets, formerly home to The New Bedford Institution for Savings. The interior has been transformed to accommodate several living aquarium exhibits, while somehow allowing its original aesthetic beauty to shine through. The marble walls and natural lighting that once made for an inviting financial establishment now quietly compliment a vivid array of marine life.
I stepped inside eagerly anticipating my winter adventure, and was immediately greeted by a friendly pair of volunteers who provided me with informative brochures and promised to field whatever questions I may have had as I wandered about. My exploration had begun.
Making octopi in the Explorer's Zone
I then met Sarah, a volunteer in charge of the Explorer’s Zone area. We spoke briefly about the educational programs and activities the Explorium offers to everyone, from children to adults. She explained that the activity themes change regularly; I happened to be visiting the Explorium midway through pollution week. Tables were set up with puzzles, games, arts and craft projects, and other pollution-related experiments encouraging tactile interaction. Little octopuses, made from old toilet tissue rolls, sat next to bird feathers dipped in oil to demonstrate its devastating effects on wildlife.
The Discovery Bay, a warm, soft lit room adjacent to the Explorer’s Zone, offers story-telling daily between 12pm and 2pm. As everyone knows, crafting and exciting stories can make even the crankiest child squeal with delight!
The centerpiece of the Explorium is an enormous blue cubical that holds the Science on a Sphere® exhibit. The sphere, created by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and given by Umass Dartmouth, is one of only forty-one in the world, and the only one you’ll find in New England. Upon entering the darkened interior of the cube, I was greeted by a floating, three-dimensional image of our planet; its like something straight out of Star Wars.
The Science Sphere really must be seen in person; A picture could never do it justice.
Using video projections and computer assistance, real-time scientific data acquired by satellites is cast onto the sphere, which pivots and revolves to show various angles of our planet that would be impossible to see otherwise. The animation is remarkable, the color scheme amazing, and the detailed images are uncanny. Through the sphere, the Explorium is able to present different narrated programs to help educate its guests in animal movement, global weather patterns, and other such natural occurrences.
In addition to their hands-on activities and visual technology, the Explorium has tanks that feature sea horses, jelly fish, and tons of aquatic life native to New England, such as cod fish and scallops. They even offer a community touch tank which allows visitors to examine star fish, crabs, and other various creatures of the sea. However, the most impressive sea life display is the very vibrant living coral reef. Filled with fluorescent fish and exotic coral, this breathtaking exhibit demonstrates the complete and delicate balance of a functioning ecosystem, while offering a glimpse at the sheer exquisiteness of nature.
Bright colors, friendly faces, and natural beauty make the Ocean Explorium a warm, family friendly way to spend an afternoon. So nip those winter blues in the bud with a fun-filled day indulging in all the aquatic goodness the Explorium has to offer!
Ocean Explorium at the New Bedford Seaport
174 Union Street
New Bedford, MA
(508)994-5400
General Admission:
$7.50 adults; $6 children; $5.50 senior; Free for members and children under 3 years of age.
