With summer in full swing, vacationers are enjoying their days at resorts, amusement parks, and beaches. The money saving population are staying in their backyards in what are known as “staycations”. The recession isn’t over and people are still hesitant to spend large sums of money on a vacation. I was thinking of something to do with the family that won’t break the bank, when I recalled spending time camping down at Bourne Scenic Park. What a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family on a friendly budget. Each year about a third of the population goes camping, or about 13 million people in the US.

The smell of a burning campfire, crickets chirping, warm breezes, the sweet taste of roasted marshmallows, and the beauty of the outdoors. Nothing is more relaxing and serene than being outdoors in the summer. Campgrounds are located in every state, just pick an area, pack up your tents or RV and drive to your desired location. There are quite a few campgrounds in our own backyard. Most of the campgrounds now offer amenities to make your stay that much better – it’s like staying at a resort. From swimming pools, to arcades, small stores with candy and goodies, playgrounds, dance halls etc., camping isn’t the same as it use to be.

We live in a wonderful region that offers something for everyone. Located in Westport, Mass. are the Westport Camping Grounds. The grounds are minutes from Horseneck Beach and offer nights for as low as $30.00. They suggest a visit to Everett Cove and also offer whitewater paddling, hiking, fishing and biking. Horseneck Beach is wonderful for waves, walking along the shore finding shells, playing beach volleyball, or getting a snack at the snack shack. In the area also is ‘The Back Eddy’ and ‘The Bayside’ – both restaurants are close by, offer ocean views with delicious fresh seafood.

Head down towards Cape Cod and in Rochester, Mass is Outdoor World Gateway to Cape Cod campground. If you don’t have a tent or camper you can rent a cabin or a trailer. Membership gives you a discounted rate, and there is an arcade, wi-fi, a pool, snack bar, and much more. In case you forget to pack something, there is also a store with supplies. This location is more in the woods with dirt roads, really keeping it natural.

Both of these campgrounds are in our local area, which means less fuel, still being close to home but getting you away for a few days on pennies. Camping is an opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Some of the best times are spent around the campfire, enjoying stories from the past, planning adventures that are waiting for tomorrow. Maybe there is a book you have wanted to read, take a nap under the shady trees, hike through trails, or bike around. These activities are usually put on the back burner because of everyday life. Out in nature allows you to skip the everyday routine, like work, paying bills, yard work, social events and you don’t need to watch television, surf the web or be attached to the phone. This is what camping allows us to do, by going back to the basics, and enjoying each other’s company. Catch up on what is going on in your children’s lives, reconnect with your spouse, be adventurous, make lasting memories.

There is a website, www.campmass.com. This website gives a list of all campgrounds in Massachusetts by region. Our region is called the Pilgrim region which includes towns from Westport, Middleboro, Wareham and Plymouth. The site then breaks down each campground letting you know price, dates of operation, contact information, nearby attractions, and all the amenities they have to offer a camper. The site is easy to use, they have wonderful pictures of the campgrounds which may help you make a better decision on where to stay and it’s free to browse and download the brochure.

Popular South Coast Massachusetts Camp Ground Locations

Massage therapy has come a long way over the years. In fact, there are places in every town making it convenient to receive one. They are mostly all same, but I found a place called Blue Lotus Moon Holistic that does it a bit differently. This isn’t your ordinary massage parlor. Owner Susannah Otocki-Pierce has gone above and beyond with special training, bringing in new techniques that sets her place apart from others. She has specialized in Polarity, graduating from SpaTech’s program in Advanced Polarity Program and has completed RYSE Practitioner Level 3 training. She also has a Holistic Health diploma and is a Reiki Master. All these state of the art techniques equate to huge benefits for you, the client.

Blue Lotus Moon Holistic is located at 53 Main St. in Fairhaven, a small storefront with big character. I pulled up to a colorful building in a quiet neighborhood and it drew me in right away. I was eager to find out what was inside. I entered through a purple door into a room in progress. Susannah greeted me with a warm smile putting my nerves at ease. I had never had a Polarity massage before, and even though I did my research I was curious as to what it entailed. She led me to a room in the back, that had dimmed lighting, soft mint green walls, and the smell of aromatic lotions. Water trickling from the water fall along with relaxing music soothed my senses. Like a small child, I couldn’t wait to get started and let my stress melt away. We each took a seat before starting, Susannah sat and explained what she was going to do, what Polarity is, and the benefits I was going to obtain.

Climbing into the warm massage bed was all I needed, but as she began her practice I drifted off. One hour and a half later, I was a new woman. I felt energized, relaxed, my muscles loosened and ready to face the rest of my hectic day. This was not an ordinary massage, during the session she did do massaging but also incorporated acupuncture, reiki and some stretching. After the session Susannah sat and spoke to me about my troubled areas, for instance, she showed me a stretch that I can do at home to help take tension out of my back area. She answered any questions I had and reassured me that if I needed anything else she was there to help. Some of my questions were about ailments that I know other people have such as plantar fasciitis and tendonitis. Susannah explained in detail why people get them, what happens inside our bodies as it is happening and then how to fix those ailments. She really does care about her clients, only wants the best for them and hopes to create a lasting relationship.

There are many benefits from massage such as it can relieve stress, improve the body’s metabolism, lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and relieve discomfort caused by strain. You’re probably asking “What is Polarity?” Here is the definition that Susannah has on her brochure: “Polarity is energy based healing modality developed by Dr. Randolph Stone, a chiropractor. He realized there are energy blocks that form in the body and must be corrected for the body to be in a state of wellness. We are able to restore balance through the body’s energetic system through a combination of acupressure, stretching, and working with elemental pathways, which results in the well being of our physical bodies. Regular sessions can lead to a sense of greater vitality as well as creativity.”

Susannah offers other services as well, some of which were new to me. I look forward to trying these other benefitting services. Besides the Polarity massage, she offers Swedish Therapeutic Massage, Deep Tissue and Holistic Massage, Healing Stone Massage, Reiki and Reiki with hot stone and crystals. For your hands and feet check out her Eco-fin hand and foot treatments. Eco-fin is a petroleum-free alternative to paraffin. Eco-fin is a blend of palm, soy, jojoba, organic coconut oils, shea butter, vitamin E, and essential oils. All these ingredients leave your skin feeling silky smooth.

Blue Lotus Moon Holistic is a hidden gem in Fairhaven that I discovered and hope to make others aware of. For more details, check out their  website at www.bluemoonholistic.abmp.com.

Trivia question of the week: Herman Melville sets sail from New Bedford harbor on a ship called? Last week’s answer is at the bottom of the article.

Sunny skies are ahead for the weekend. New England weather can be unpredictable like last weekend so let’s enjoy this one. We were lucky to have missed all the snow, being near the ocean has it’s benefits. On Friday it will be sunny with a high of around 52 degrees. Unfortunately the nights are colder with a high of only 30. Saturday may be the cooler of the two days with a high of 49 degrees, low 29. Sunday is looking to be warmer with a high of 56 degrees.

October 4

Herman Melville is alive this week at both the Whaling Museum and The Zeiterion. He was a great writer that lived on Nantucket, shipped out from New Bedford Harbor and sailed many oceans which gave him the ideas for his books. I have not read Moby Dick yet, but, I do recommend seeing it at the Z or watching it. I recently watched the movie on Netflix starring John Hurt as Captain Ahab and Ethan Hawk as his first mate. For those who never plan on reading the book this is the avenue to take. After all he is a world known classic writer and Moby Dick is one of those must reads.

Moby Dick Adaptation is at The Zeiterion (684 Purchase St. New Bedford) on Friday night and Saturday day and again at night. Gare St. Lazzare, Ireland’s best known theater company, is presenting Conor Lovett as a vital one man performance of Herman Melville’s great american novel. He is accompanied by original music by Caoimhin O’Raghallaigh on fiddle, viola, and uileann pipes. This performance holds the audiences spellbound as Lovett tells the classic tale of the sea monster, Capt. Ahab and their epic journey aboard the Pequod. Get your tickets online for $30 a ticket. The times are 7:30pm on Friday, 3pm and 7:30pm on Saturday.

After the show check out Vintage Soul at Candleworks (92 Water St. New Bedford) starting at 8:30pm. Or head to Black Watch Pub (266 Dartmouth St. New Bedford.) for Sherman Lee Dillion and The Mississippi Sound with special guest Joanne Doherty. They will be singing blues and keeping you rocking and rolling all night.

Looking for a more fast pace scene? Head down to the Ice Chest (136 Huttleson Ave.) DJ Eddie Freitas will be their from 9pm – 1am.

October 5

Gallery X (169 Williams St. New Bedford) is having Adult Health Center Art Show  from 11am – 3pm.

Umass Dartmouth Corsairs vs. MIT at 12pm at 285 Old Westport Rd. Dartmouth. Come cheer on your local college football team. Tickets are $5 for adults and  students are Free!

If you missed the performance of Moby Dick at The Zeiterion friday night, you can see it starting at 3pm or again at 7:30pm.

The New Bedford Historical Parks 15th Anniversary is coming so come down between 12-5pm and share a one minute story about the park. Then on November 12th the video will be presented for all to see, that is when the park will be having it’s birthday celebration.

The Standard Times and Salvation Army have joined forces to make the holidays happier for families in need with their 2nd Annual Soup Bowl Supper from rom 5pm – 9pm. They are looking to raise $250,000 this year to. This is being held at Cafe Funchal on 123 Church St., New Bedford. They will be selling tickets which will include a meal consisting of salad, bread, dessert, refreshments, and several choices of soups. They will be also selling soup bowls by artist Seth Rainville and every ticket purchased includes one of the hand crafted soup bowls for free. A silent auction will be going on along with a DJ and live band for entertainment.

With the holidays coming up this is a good cause for many families that could still use some help. Maybe they are unemployed or their hours have been cut back and can’t make ends meet. It always feels good to help others.

After doing a good deed why not celebrate with some live music. Relics will be playing at the Ice Chest (136 Huttleson Ave. Fairhaven) from 9pm – 1am. 21+ only.

October 5

Things are going to be quiet until we’re upon the holidays which are not far off in the future. There is still plenty to do in and around the city. See a movie, visit one of the many museums, stroll through Buttonwood Park Zoo, visit the beach one last time, or go to one of the many delicious restaurants.

For football lovers head over to the Ice Chest Bar & Grille for “All Day NFL Sunday Ticket.” Meet friends, watch your favorite team and enjoy delicious, fresh food.

On Sunday night at Rose Alley Ale House, Kenny Richards with be performing from 6 – 9pm. This is also a great place to try a new beer, listen to music and catch a game.

Every Sunday night starting at 7pm, The Pour Farm Tavern will be having Jam Sessions hosted by Matt Antunes. Jazz, Blues, Funk, or Good Ol’ Rock and Roll are welcome. Want to jam? Contact Matt: straightlaceproductions@comcast.net

For more events, check HERE.

The answer to the  trivia question is: Turnip, that is what people first carved before pumpkins.

Hope everyone has a great weekend. I may attempt to clean out my garage since the temps are still above freezing. I would like to be able to park my car inside before a real big snow storm hits us. Oops! Maybe I just jinxed us, knock on wood. Till next week…

Trivia question of the week: Today we carve pumpkins for Halloween, what was used before the pumpkin? Last week’s answer is at the bottom of the article.

Halloween is here!  There are many costume parties, haunted houses and events going on in New Bedford this weekend.  Warm weather has come to an end, fall has finally arrived with its cooler temperatures.  Friday looks to be cool and sunny in the 50’s, the night will have a chill so dress warm with temps around 32 degrees. Saturday could be a wash with a 50 percent chance of rain and possibly into the night.  Sunday the sun shines bright with high in the 50’s again, so all is not lost. Halloween day is looking to be the same, sunny and in the 50’s and when the trick or treaters come out it will be around 40 degrees.

FRIDAY, October 28th

Halloween is around the corner and Button Wood Park Zoo is having “Boo at the Zoo.”  Thrills and chills with frights and sights are in store for visitors.  Take a ride on the spooky train ride ($2) or a whirl on the bewitching carousel ($2).  Crafts, activities, and more will be available.  This fun event will take place Friday and Saturday night from 6 – 9pm.  Cost for members: $5 adult, $3 child or non-members: $10 adult, $8 child.  For more information go to www.bpzoo.org

Friday night is Freakfest 2011 at Black Watch Pub.  Wear your costume to win prizes, entertainment, and plenty of spirits to be had.  Doors open at 9pm and the cost is $5.

Feeling lucky?  Rose Alley (94 Front St. New Bedford) is having Lucky 13 perform at 9:30pm.  Stop in for one of there many beers, award winning appetizers and live music.

Looking for a more fast pace scene?  Head down to the Ice Chest (136 Huttleson Ave.) as DJ Eddie Freitas will be their from 9pm – 1am, or head to Fins (37 Union St.) as DJ Rage will be spinning some tunes and enjoy free pizza at midnight.  Also Kirby Irish Pub (818 Kempton St.) will be hosting karaoke night from 9 – 11pm.  21+ only!

For more events, check HERE.

SATURDAY, October 2

Roger Williams Park Zoo is hosting “Spooky Zoo” during the day from 10am – 3pm for all kids under 12 and dressed up in a costume.  There will be pumpkin carving, demonstrations, games, animal encounters and characters to meet.  Kids in costume are half price.  Tickets $8 per kid and $12 per adult.

For those who live for being scared head to either the Asylum of Horror or Factory of Terror.  I personally have not attempted either one of these scary places, but I have heard they are not for the faint of heart.  Full details on each:

• Asylum of Horror, 18 Pocasset St. Fall River, tickets $17.00 per adult, $12.00 per child with an adult. Their website may be helpful for those thinking of going, www.asylumofhorror.com
• Factory of Terror, 33 Pearl St. Fall River, tickets $20.00 per adult, $15.00 children under 10 or $35.00 for a VIP speedpass. www.factoryofterror.com

Saturday night is filled with live entertainment.  Captain Malibu will be performing at Rose Alley starting at 3pm and then at 9:30pm the J. Kelley Band comes in and rocks the night away.  Don’t miss out!

Johnny Barnes and the Nightcrawlers will be at the Ice Chest (136 Huttleston Ave, Fairhaven) from 9pm – 1am.  Come in a costume to win big money and enjoy the Halloween party.

Horror Business is at No Problemo (813 Purchase Street, New Bedford) singing Misfits covers. The Halloween bash is from  10pm – 1am. 21+ only !

SUNDAY, October 30

It looks to be quiet in the city on Sunday but that doesn’t mean there isn’t something to do.  King Richard’s Fair is still going on in Carver, or head down to Roger William’s Park Zoo for Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular.  Have a scenic dinner at the Waterfront Grille, sit by the windows or outside on the deck and enjoy the view  of the harbor while savoring delicious dishes.  Boo at the Zoo is happening if you missed it on Friday.

The Ocean Explorium has opened a new Sea Scallop Touch Tank, you can actually hold a scallop.  The Ocean Explorium is located at 174 Union Street in Downtown New Bedford, is open Thursday through Sunday, 10am – 4pm, and is handicap accessible through the building’s rear entrance.

For football lovers head over to the Ice Chest Bar & Grille for “All Day NFL Sunday Ticket.”  Meet friends, watch your favorite team and enjoy delicious, fresh food. Did I mention their 1,000 quart bar filled with ice cold beer?

On Sunday night at Rose Alley Ale House, Kenny Richards with be performing from 6 – 9pm.  This is also a great place to try a new beer, listen to music and catch a game.

Every Sunday night starting at 7pm, The Pour Farm Tavern will be having Jam Sessions hosted by Matt Antunes. Jazz, Blues, Funk, or Good Ol’ Rock and Roll are welcome. Want to jam? Contact Matt: straightlaceproductions@comcast.net

For more events, check HERE.

The answer to the  trivia question is: The Zeiterion, kinda easy.  It opened April 2, 1923 and was known as State Theatre, it was renamed sometime after 1950.

I love the whole month of October and Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.  I know this means the ending of summer, but it is also means get out there before the cold sets in.  Let me know if anyone tries out one of those haunted houses, would love to know what you think.

In today’s economy everyone can use some extra cash.  Couponing is easy and is great way to save money.  Here are some useful tips:

Getting coupons: The first step is to get as many coupons as you can.  Coupons come in the Sunday paper each week; those inserts have 88% of all coupons issued.  You don’t have to buy 10 Sunday papers!  You can ask friends or family to give their coupons to you, or subscribe to the paper and the cost goes down.

Another way to get coupons is the internet.  There are plenty of websites: www.coupons.com, www.couponmom.com, www.redplum.com, and www.smartsource.com.  Another source is the magazine All You.  The idea is to get as many coupons as possible!

Organizing:  Once you have clipped out all the coupons getting organized is important.  There are different ways to organize them.  I use a binder with alphabetical dividers: A is for animal food, B is for baking, beverages, baby, C is for canned goods, etc.  Other people like to organize by brand names, some use an envelope system.  Whatever method you choose to organize your coupons will be fine.

For those getting into couponing for the first time, here are some tips for the first few weeks.

First Week: Take out the drug store flyers (CVS, Walgreens, Rite-Aid etc) or grocery store flyers and scan each one.  They all usually have the same items on sale; it just depends who has the bigger savings.  Most experts will say that if the item is not more than 60% off it isn’t worth it, so there is math involved when determining the best deal.  Here’s an example:  Rite-Aid has Gillette razors on sale for $9.99, there is a coupon for $4.00 off, and then $5.00 in “+uprewards”. Your final cost is $.99 for the razors, that’s 90% off. TIP: Grocery stores health and beauty items are almost never good deals.

Second Week: Repeat the same process as the first week, but include items from the grocery store and one or two from the drug store.  You should start to accumulate coupons and get them organized.

Other Tips for Couponing and Saving Money:

– Make a shopping list each week listing the items you have coupons for.  Write down what items, how many of each and what store; this way you’re in and out quickly and you know exactly what you are getting.

– Stack coupons every chance you get!  Stacking coupons is when you use a manufactuerer coupon and a retailer coupon at the same time for one item making the discount bigger.  For example, Walgreens has a coupon for Palmolive dish soap for $1.50 (regularly $2) and you have a manufacturer coupon for $1.00 off Palmolive.  When at the register you give the Walgreen’s coupon and the manufacturer coupon at the same time.  You will then only pay $.50 for the dish soap that normally costs $2. That is stacking coupons and saving big time!

– CVS will credit your purchase $1 after four visits when you use a reusable bag with their tag that is attached to any bag.

– When you receive some sort of incentive from one of the drug stores (extracare bucks, register rewards, or +uprewards) it is good to use them for milk and eggs.  I don’t buy milk anymore, I get it for free doing this method.

– Rite-Aid offers video rewards and rebates. Video rewards work by going to their website and watch a video for a certain product.  For example, after watching a video for Reese’s.  After watching the video you will be given credit towards your next purchase on Reese’s.  Rebates are money sent to you by mail after you fill out a form online.  In the front of the store there is a flyer dedicated to items that have rebates.  The flyer runs for the whole month and new items will be designated for the following month.

Take time to use coupons and you will have extra cash in your pocket!

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Trivia question: What’s the world’s largest fair that has been going on for over 200 years?  To find out the answer come back next week to the weekend guide. (Hint: Many cities have smaller versions of this fair.)

Beautiful weather is ahead of us for the weekend.  It’s welcoming that the weather has been cooperating allowing the events held to continue and be comfortable for all to enjoy.  This weekend is looking to be seasonable for this time of year with highs in the 70’s and starting to get cooler at night.  Friday will be the sunniest of the days, high of 74 and 55 for the low, Saturday clouds start to come in high of 73 a cool 45 at night and Sunday the temperature drops with a high of 64 and a low of 43! Brrrr.

This weekend, definitely check out one or some of the many opportunities in the area to listen to local music, celebrate nightlife, enjoy the arts, benefit a good cause, avoid the heat, or support the zoos in our area.   As always, most events discussed here are from LocalOracle.  To have your events promoted for FREE, submit them HERE.   If you need directions, simply click on the event name for contact info and directions.

FRIDAY, September 30th

Family Fun Campfires at Buttonwood Park Zoo will be held the next few Friday nights.  Bring a blanket and enjoy the fire while story telling, snacks and activities will be going on.  It starts at 6:30 p.m. and cost $25 for members and $35 for non-members.  Call  508-991-4556 ext. 18. to pre-register.  In case of inclement weather the event will be called  off by 5 p.m.  Stay tuned!

Friday night could also be a great date night by heading out to Westport to catch the sunset at The Back Eddy or stop by Bayside for drinks and music.

Looking for a more fast pace scene?  Head down to the Ice Chest (136 Huttleson Ave) as DJ Eddie Freitas will be their from 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. or head to Fins (37 Union St.) as DJ Rage will be spinning some tunes and enjoy free pizza at midnight.  Also Kirby Irish Pub, 818 Kempton St., will be hosting karaoke night from 9 – 11 p.m., 21+ only.

For more events, check HERE.

SATURDAY, October 1st

Umass Dartmouth is having its first home game against MIT on Saturday afternoon starting at 1:00 p.m.  Come and cheer for the Corsairs as they look to get their second win in a row.  Last week they beat Plymouth State from Plymouth, New Hampshire 16-0.  All students are free and adults pay $5.  Check out the teams stats at corsairathletics.com

Dust off your beer stein because Oktoberfest is here at last!  What a better way to end the fall season than to drink, eat and be merry with fellow patrons under one tent.  Held at Custom House Square (133 Williams St.), this is the 6th year for this event put together by the South Coast Business Alliance (SCBA). Proceeds from this event will be donated to Bristol County Children’s Advocacy Center and Community Foundation.  Patrons will have plenty of beer from local and regional brewers, six live bands performing, and bratwurst and sauerkraut to compliment the beer and other foods for all tastes.  Tickets cost $20 dollars in advance and $25 at the door and can be purchased at Rose Alley Ale House or at Pizan’s Pizza in downtown New Bedford.   Anfeuerungen!  It means “cheers” in German.

For all dog lovers, down on the Plymouth waterfront will be “Barktoberfest.”  Bring your dressed-up pooch and walk around meeting pet-friendly vendors.  There will be contests for loudest bark, fastest tail wagging and best costume.  Time for this event is 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and is happening at Nelson Park (225 Water St.) in Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Take a ride back in time to the medieval period at King Richard’s Faire (235 Main St., Carver). Eat with your hands, watch fire-eaters, acrobats, jousting, and much more.  This year is it’s 30th anniversary which makes it more special.  Tickets are $27 (cash only) and the event is open from 10:30 am – 6:00 pm.  This event will be going on every Saturday and Sunday until October 23.

Not into Oktoberfest?  Johnny Edwards Power of Soul will be performing at The Ice Chest on Saturday night from 9 p.m. -1 a.m. (136 Huttleson Ave).

For more events, check HERE.

SUNDAY, October 2nd

All is quiet on this day, but there is still plenty to do in and around New Bedford.  The weather will be nice so take a stroll at Fort Phoenix, walk down to the beach and comb the sand.  The Whaling Museum is also a great way to spend the day finding out the history of whaling.  In Fairhaven take a tour of the Henry Huttleson Rogers library or the Old Stone School House.  We are lucky to live in an area that is rich in history so get out and explore!

Apple picking can be another fun family event.  There are a few apple farms in Acushnet; Keith’s Farm is one of the largest operational farms in the Southeast (1149 Main St.), Perry Hill Farm (35 Perry Hill Rd.). Peter’s  Family Orchard and Cider Mill (537 North Main St.)

For football lovers head over to the Ice Chest Bar & Grille for “All Day NFL Sunday Ticket”.  Meet friends, watch your favorite team and enjoy delicious, fresh food. Did I mention their 1,000-quart bar filled with ice cold beer?

On Sunday night at Rose Alley Ale House, Kenny Richards will be performing from 6 – 9 p.m.  This is also a great place to try a new beer, listen to music and catch a game.

Every Sunday night starting at 7 p.m., The Pour Farm Tavern will be having Jam Sessions hosted by Matt Antunes. Jazz, Blues, Funk, or Good Ol’ Rock and Roll are welcome. Want to jam? Contact Matt: straightlaceproductions@comcast.net

For more events, check HERE.

I will be heading out to the Oktoberfest on Saturday, hope to see you there!

On September 18, 2011 from 12-5 PM at Custom House Square, Downtown New Bedford, Inc. will be presenting the sixth annual Chowder Festival. This is a fun filled day for the whole family to get outdoors and enjoy some of the best clam chowder, seafood chowder, kale soup, and stuffed quahogs from local restaurants. Once you’ve purchased a ticket, this will allow you to go and sample all of the savory dishes from local restaurants.

Besides tasting delicious food, there will be live music from Shipyard Wreck and Captain Malibu & Friends. Live lobster races will be held at Carter’s lot across from Custom House Square. This event raises funds for the YMCA. The lobsters race in a custom made tank, and you may place a wage on your favorite lobster. The New Bedford Ocean Explorations will host craft activites for the younger children. Want to take a picture a with a friendly pirate? Captain Jack Sparrow will be available for photos during the festival for a unique souvenir.

There will be an alternative to seafood. Cafe Arpeggio will be serving sandwiches, desserts, and homemade ice cream so there is something for everyone to enjoy at the festival. Soft drinks and beer will be available. The beer is from Massachusetts beer selections and wine provided by Travessia Urban Winery. The Cocktail Guru (new this year) will be mixing up signature cocktails and other drinks for all.

During the sampling of chowders, soups and quahogs, visitors will be asked to place a vote for: Best Clam Chowder, Best Seafood Chowder, Best Kale Soup, Best Stuffed Quahogs and Best Table Presentation. There will also be a Judge’s Choice Award conducted through a blind taste test. The judges this year are Michael Rock from FUN107, Chef and Owner of Destination Soups, and Greg Morton Owner/Chef of Morton’s Fork Catering. Voting will end at 3:15 p.m. so the votes can be counted and winners announced that day.

Here are the local restaurants that will be participating this year: Atria Fairhaven; Bittersweet Farm; Cotali Mar; Fathom’s Bar & Grille; Freestone’s City Grill; M & C Cafe; Mar-Lees Seafood, Mike’s Restaurant; Morin’s Fine Catering; Pasta House; Pour Farm Tavern, River’s End Cafe; Rose Alley Ale House; Seaside Seafood; St. Luke’s Hospital and Vivvy’s Restaurant.

Tickets are $12 in advance ($15 at the door) or $5 for children 6-12 and children under 6 years-old get in for free. Tickets are available at the DNB office, on-line through out web-site www.downtownnb.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the following locations: Acme Liquors, Cardoza Wine & Spirits, Douglas Wine & Spirits, Atria Fairhaven, Mike’s Restaurant, Fathom’s Bar & Grill; Citizens-Union Savings Bank (downtown branch), Destination Soups, Freestone’s, Elaine’s Home of the Black Whale, On-A-Roll Sandwiches, TL6 the Gallery, Webster Bank, YMCA, Rivers End Cafe and Vivvy’s Restaurant. Call 508-990-2777 for information.

There’s no better way to spend a September Sunday afternoon than coming to the Sixth Annual New Bedford Chowder Festival and sampling the very best flavors from local restaurants, enjoying live music and relaxing.

Get your wallets and credit cards ready because Massachusetts has brought back a tax-free weekend (August 13-14, 2011) for most sales in the state.  At one time the tax-free holiday was an annual event, but was stopped in 2009 due to state budget short-falls.  Despite heavy criticism, Governor Deval Patrick brought the tax-free weekend back, by signing a tax-free bill into law on August 1st, 2011.  While this tax-free weekend will reduce state tax revue by an estimated $20 million, retailers are jumping for joy because it will boost their bottom line in a time when sales are usually down.

Massachusetts is the 19th state to offer a sales tax-free holiday.  Currently, Rhode Island does not have one.  Consumers from the state of Rhode Island will be traveling, crossing borders to save, which will also add to purchases this weekend.  New Hampshire does not have a tax-free holiday because they don’t have a sales tax in the state.

What are the stipulations for the sales tax free holiday?

• Any item or items that are purchased for less than $2,500 are not subject to state sales tax (6.25%): anything that is for personal use.
• Alcohol does fall under this the tax free exemption, which helps since the state started to tax alcohol back in 2009.
• Any item that is purchased by a corporation is subject to the state sales tax.
• Motor vehicles, boats, meals, gas and tobacco products are taxed.
• Clothing.  No sales tax unless cost exceeds $175.  For example, if you buy an expensive pocket book for $400, it is tax free, but if you buy a wedding dress for $2,550; tax is due on $2,375 ($2,550 – $175).  Per www.mass.gov.
• Multiple items.  Buying multiple items on one receipt totaling over $2,500 is not subject to tax.  For example, a TV $800, Stove $1,200, TV stand $600, all totaling $2,600 is not taxed. However, items that are bundled for an amount over $2,500 are taxed! For example, a computer, monitor, and printer are bundled for a price of $2,700 will be taxed.
• Coupons. You may use coupons on an item that brings the price down under the $2,500.  For example, if you buy a furniture piece that costs $2,575 and you have a coupon promotion for $200 off of the piece of furniture, the total purchase price is now $2,375, and so it is not taxed.
• Internet Sales. The same rules apply to any purchase made over the internet on the sales tax free holiday weekend.

This can be a good time for families that need to purchase items and want to save some money.  Even though you’re technically only saving 6.25%, every bit helps.  Experts say consumers should focus on things you need.  For example, making purchases like lumber and other items to renovate your home are good items to purchase this weekend.  My recommendation is to shop early because the lines will be longer and the stores to be much busier than usual.

Regardless of what you purchase, this tax-free weekend is a win for consumers and retailers and we all love the feeling of saving money.  For more information on this event go to www.mass.gov.

Overlooking New Bedford Harbor is Fathom’s Bar and Grille.  The location has a heated enclosed patio in the winter and for the warmer months it becomes an open patio with fresh sea breezes.  It is located at 255 Pope’s Island near the bridge offering a 60-foot floating dock for customers to dock small boats or dingies.  Fleet Fisheries is the sister company to Fathom’s which enables the restaurant to offer fresh seafood daily.

I arrived with my husband Mark around 6 PM on a Friday night and the parking lot was full.  I did manage to find a spot, but had to drive around looking for one.  I was nervous because a full parking lot usually means lots of customers and a wait for a table, which doesn’t help when you’re ready to eat the first thing you see.

When we entered Fathoms I immediately noticed the “newness” of the inside, modern, up-to-date and a clean nautical atmosphere.  I also quickly realized that we were at the end of the line, but a couple of the hostesses had the line moving pretty fast.  Once we got to the front, I was told that there was a wait for a table on the deck, but that we could be seated right away inside.  We chose the latter since I was starving.  We were seated next to a window in the bar area that had a nice view of the water and some boats in a marina.  Although the day was grey with clouds it is always nice to overlook the ocean.

Our friendly waitress, Erin Lincoln, came right over and took our drinks and appetizer order; I got the clam chowder and crab cakes.  She informed me that their chowder had won an award so I definitely had to get a cup.  While waiting, I notice the top of the bar, it looked like a frosted frozen piece of water with a splash of dark blue color, and it was eye catching.  Erin was kind enough to tell me it was hand blown glass imported from Italy, and that when the lights go down, the bar top lights up giving a wave effect.

Our appetizers came, the clam chowder was award winning, it had a thick, creamy warm sauce with chunks of potatoes and clams and of course a side of oyster crackers.  The crab cakes looked delicious, two cakes with spices and crab meat, it was more doughy than crab meat, and I thought it could have been tastier.  For dinner I ordered the scrod and scallop casserole with cole slaw and rice, Mark ordered the grilled rib eye steak with fresh veggies and baked red bliss potatoes.  We did have to wait about 20 minutes or more for our meals to come, but our waitress Erin made sure our drinks were full and informed us constantly on the status of our meals. I didn’t mind the wait, the Bruins were getting ready to play and there were plenty of televisions to watch. Sitting in the bar area was nice but it got loud at some points, not a practical place to have a quiet meal and conversation.

The scrod and scallop casserole was in a small dish with the rice and cole slaw being on the side. I was disappointed in the casserole, the scrod and scallops were sitting in oil which didn’t look so appetizing, I took a bite and it didn’t’ have much taste which I thought would be quite flavorful because of it saying “in a garlic compound”. The rice was bland and the cole slaw was okay. Mark’s meal was gone in a matter of seconds, he claimed it was the best rib eye he has had in awhile. I did get a small bite and he was right, the meat was juicy with a off the grill taste, the vegetables were warm and crunchy with seasonings and the baked red bliss potatoes were soft and buttery.

We were both stuffed and weren’t able to order dessert, instead Mark got his signature after dinner drink and we sat, chatted and watched a sailboat and fishing boat go through the bridge. It was a nice place to sit and chill after a long week at work which is the feeling I got from the other patrons. I did see other dishes go by and they looked appetizing, this is a place I need to come back and experience again. When I do return, my choice will be to sit out on the deck on a warm night, order another entrée and dessert with some friends. This was one of the participating restaurants at a Taste of Southcoast and they did win People’s Choice Award for Food, so I am not brushing off Fathoms yet. Until next time….

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Mattapoisett native, Devon Barley, took a chance, headed out for an audition to pursue his dream, singing. He landed a spot on the new show “The Voice”, hoping to make it all the way. The Voice, airing for the first time this year, with judges, Adam Levine, Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera and Blake Shelton, had to judge contestants with their back turned only to listen to the contestant sing, not seeing the them and making a judgment on their voice. Devon came on and sang “I’m yours” by Jason Mraz, although the judges did not turn right away, Devon kept on singing until finally Adam Levine and Cee Lo Green turned around. Impressed with his talent both judges wanted Devon to be on their team, but the choice was up to Devon himself. He chose to go with team Adam taking one spot of eight available. Once each judge filled the eight spots making a team the next step is to pair up two members of the same team and have a face off.

Devon made it past the first face off against team member Rebecca Loebe, a folk singing Berkley graduate traveling for the past four years playing at venue after venue. Feeling relieved at making it, he now knew that the stakes were higher and the competition was harder, for he was going to the next round facing Casey Weston, Jeff Jenkins, and Javiar Colon. In the quarter finals Devon chose “Stop and Stare” by One Republic, his coach Adam revealed that he had improved by showing confidence while the other judges loved his performance. On the next episode Adam Levine had to choose who will stay, while one of the other members is saved by voting. Javiar Colon won the most votes by America to stay on, it then came down to Devon, Casey, and Jeff. Adam rambled on about how “it wasn’t in his fiber to have to chose only one”, but he ultimately ended up choosing Casey Weston. Team Adam won the competition; Javiar Colon took the hearts of America and claimed the winning spot.

This isn’t the end of Devon Barley, I had the opportunity to interview Devon Barley on his experience on The Voice and this is what he revealed:

What were you thinking when you were trying out and the judges didn’t turn around right away? Or did you not even realize and just continued to sing focusing on your performance.
I definitely knew that the judges weren’t turning around. As a matter of fact I couldn’t even focus on singing because of how nervous I was. The funny part is that it didn’t get any better when they turned around, mostly because the realization that I was singing to Adam Levine and Cee Lo scared the daylights out of me.

If all the judges turned around, who would you have picked? Or did you have one in mind already?
If all the judges turned around, I still would have gone with Adam. He was always my number one choice so you can imagine how happy I was when he turned around for me.

How was it to compete against someone on your own team? Would you rather have come face to face against someone on another team?
The simple answer: very hard. Competing against someone on my team was so hard because you knew that you were working hard to get them eliminated. It’s also hard when you have to work so much together and you can’t help but to start getting close. I would have rather battled someone on a different team for sure.

Are you staying in touch with any of the other contestants?
I actually stay in touch with most of the top 16. When you live, breath and eat “The Voice” there is a huge bonding effect, especially when you live together in the same hotel for months.

Who inspired you to sing? Who is your mentor in the music industry?
I was actually inspired by my Dad to sing. Playing and singing was a hobby of his and he passed it on to me when he urged me to try out for a musical group called “Showstoppers” when I was a kid. I got hooked and since then have been singing for about 10 years.

Would you like to be judge someday on “The Voice” or some other type of show?
I would absolutely love to be a coach on “The Voice”. They get to interact with some extremely talented people and help them progress to the next level as fully fledged artist. I mean come on, who wouldn’t want to sit in those big red chairs?

Do you feel that you have a new perspective about life? Is your outlook different than before going on the show?
I would definitely say that my outlook on life has changed since the show. I gained a priceless amount of confidence, experience and knowledge that allowed me to realize that this dream of mine is not as far away as I thought.

Now that you are a local celebrity what about the band you were with before the show?
I really don’t call myself a celebrity at all. Once I do something for myself without the help of a show like this, then you can call me that. As for the band that I was with before the show, 22 Foot Drop, we are first and foremost best friends. We started taking a break because we all split to different colleges, but music is still alive in our hearts and I’m sure we’ll get back in the studio at some point.

Do you plan to relocate to follow your dream of being in the music industry?
My plans right now are in total flux. I really was expecting to go back to school without really missing a beat, but the show has opened some doors that make me question if I should go back. If it works out and I need to move because of it, I’m willing to go wherever it takes.

Do you have advice for someone that has a dream of being a singer?
The best advice I have to give to aspiring singers is practice hard, play hard and work hard. If you’ve given it everything you’ve got, at the end of the day you should have something pretty special.

Will you be doing any performances or appearances locally?
As far as local appearances go, all I have to say is stay tuned. I’m workings on some things right now and definitely don’t plan on just going away so follow dcbarley on twitter and I’ll keep you guys updated!

Is it hard to go in public and not be noticed?
I still think it’s funny whenever people come up to me and want my picture or autograph. What’s even funnier is when people just stare. I know why you are staring please just come up to me and say hello. I’m a nice person and it’ll be a lot less awkward for the both of us!

Is there a singer or band you would like to work with?
I would love to work with James Morrison. I love the crazy unique tone he has and to be able to work with a guy who has that much soul in his voice would be awesome!

Now that the show is over, what are your parent’s choices? Are they pushing for college?
Right now, my dream is singing. My goals however are a little mixed because of the huge pull I have to go back to school. My parents are very supportive people and I really can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve done for me. Whatever I decide to do I know I’ll be supported and that feels good!

How did you spend the 4th of July?
Well, on 4th of July I sang the Star Spangled Banner. And between you and me, I messed up! It was so embarrassing but luckily it was only a slight trip up and I got back on track on track without too many people noticing. That song is so hard to sing for some reason, just ask Christina!