Residents urged to use bug spray when outdoors.

“BOSTON (July 2, 2024) – The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that West Nile virus (WNV) has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year. The presence of WNV was confirmed today by the Massachusetts State Public Health Laboratory in two mosquito samples collected on June 25 in the city of Quincy in Norfolk County.

“This is about the time of year that we expect to start finding West Nile virus in mosquitoes,” said Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “It is an important reminder that people should take steps to prevent mosquito bites. WNV can cause serious illness and there are simple things that you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.”

WNV is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. There were six human cases of WNV in 2023. No human or animal cases of WNV have been detected so far this year. No evidence of Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) has been found so far this season. There were no human or animal cases of EEE in 2023.

While WNV can infect people of all ages, people over the age of 50 are at higher risk for severe disease. Most people infected with WNV will have no symptoms. When present, WNV symptoms tend to include fever and flu-like illness. In rare cases, more severe illness can occur.

“This is the beginning of our mosquito season in Massachusetts. From now on, we expect mosquito populations to increase, and we will start to see more of them carrying WNV,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Catherine M. Brown. “Use a mosquito repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient, wear clothing to reduce exposed skin, drain standing water, and repair window screens. We also encourage everyone to make it a habit to check the mosquito-borne disease webpages on mass.gov so you know when and where WNV activity is occurring.”-Mass.gov.

“We are excited to announce that we have some interesting little friends traveling to our Methuen Adoption Center this week!

51 Sugar Gliders were rescued in Puerto Rico this spring and are on their way to Massachusetts to find new homes. The Sugar Gliders have been cared for by the Carribbean Manatee Conservation Center since their rescue, as they are not legal to own as pets in Puerto Rico. @humanesociety and @sthubertsanimal are helping us to transport the Sugar Gliders, which will arrive in Methuen on Wednesday!

MSPCA-Angell photo.

We hope to make these little friends available for adoption very quickly and we promise to keep you updated on their progress. In the meantime, if you’re considering adopting, do some research! These are complex little animals that need very special homes.

We also want to make sure they’re as comfortable as possible when they arrive, so consider sending a fleece pouch for them to snuggle up with when they arrive from our wishlist! Www.mspca.org/wishlist.”-MSPCA-Angell.

MSPCA-Angell photo.

MSPCA-Angell photo.

MSPCA-Angell photo.

“Looking for a spot to grill? Well look no more, Hazelwood Park, Fort Taber Park and Rivers End Park have you covered!

You can bring your grill to the designated cement pads and spend some time in New Bedford’s big backyard.

Please look at the map and rules posted in the photos. For any questions please reach out to our admin office. 🤩😎♨️🍔🌭

Must be 18 years or older to grill!”-New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches.

New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches photo.

New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches photo.

New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches photo.

“*** 𝐎𝐅𝐂. 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐍 𝐋𝐀𝐖𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 — 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐎 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋 ***

On Friday, Ofc. Dean Lawrence signed off for the last time after nearly 30 years of dedicated service to the NBPD.

Dean began his career with New Bedford in November of 1996 and worked as a Patrol Officer and in Communications until 2005 when he was promoted to a Community Police Officer. In October 2007, Dean served as a K-9 Handler assigned to the Port Security Team and was given his first partner, Dago, who was active from 2007 until 2014.

City of New Bedford Police Department photo.

In 2015, Dean met Loki, his second K-9, who retired in 2024. For the last two years of his career, Dean assisted with Backgrounds and worked in the Office of Research and Development Training.

Ofc. Lawrence also proudly served in the U.S. Army for 21 years between Active Duty and the National Guard. He served in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm 1900/1991, Peace Keeping Mission Bosnia 200/2001, and Operation Iraqi Freedom 2003/2004.

Congratulations Dean, your commitment and dedication have left an indelible mark on our department and community.

City of New Bedford Police Department photo.

As you embark on this new chapter of your life, we want to express our deepest gratitude for all that you have done. The New Bedford Police Department is stronger and better because of your contributions.

Best wishes for a wonderful retirement!!!!!👮🐕‍🦺💙🖤”-City of New Bedford Police Department.

City of New Bedford Police Department photo.

“The annual Cape Verdean Flag-Raising ceremony at City Hall is more like a family reunion/party than your typical ceremony.

Thanks to all who came out this evening to celebrate Cape Verdean culture in New Bedford.”-City of New Bedford.

All photos by the City of New Bedford:

In a surprising Facebook post, a New Bedford landmark has announced its suddenly closing. Freestones City Grill posted the following on Facebook earlier this evening:

“To all of our valued guests, it’s with a heavy heart that we are announce that we are closing down Freestones City Grill effective immediately. We appreciate each and every one of you that have visited and continued to do so over the past few years. To our staff, we apologize that we weren’t able to keep things going, you’ve all worked really hard and we appreciate all that you’ve done. Thank you all.
As of right now, we’re still working to figure a few things out. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding gift cards. Thank you for your understanding and patronage throughout the years.”

Freestones has gone through several ownership changes in the last 5 years and at least two different renovations. We had recently heard from a few staff members that had their hours cut and that the restaurant was struggling. No one expected its sudden closure however. Downtown businesses have seen a noticeable drop in traffic with the Zeiterion Theater closed for a multi year renovation project.

The restaurant first opened its doors in 1979 and quickly established itself as a downtown destination. Prior to the current ownership group taking over it was closed for over a year for renovations. Hopefully someone can return the establishment to its former glory.

“BOSTON – The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) today announced that fares will again be free this year on bus, subway, ferry, Commuter Rail, and RIDE transportation on Thursday, July 4, 2024 after 9:30 PM. Boston is regularly predicted to host over a million visitors for the July 4 holiday. To accommodate increased ridership, the MBTA is encouraging travelers to plan their commute in advance and reminding riders of its holiday service schedules. The public is encouraged to take public transportation to and from the 2024 Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the DCR Hatch Shell on the Esplanade in Boston and to other holiday events. The MBTA’s July 4 service schedules continue to be available at mbta.com/holidays.

With many people expected to attend July 4 festivities this year, the MBTA also encourages the public to help maintain a safe and family-friendly environment while riding the T. Additional MBTA staff, Transit Ambassadors, Keolis personnel, and Transit Police will be deployed throughout the system to assist with safety, wayfinding, boarding, paying for fares, and schedule information.

“All of us here at the MBTA are committed to our role serving communities and ensuring that we allow the public the ability to rely on public transportation for work, family, friends, and play. Here in Boston, the Independence Day celebrations add to the excitement and fun whether you’re attending July 4th parties, barbeques, or other celebrations including the fireworks display over the Boston Harbor,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “Our dedicated workforce takes great pride in planning and preparing so on these special days we can deliver the level of enhanced service and safety measures that our riders deserve and expect getting everyone to their destinations safely. We hope everyone has a safe and happy Fourth of July.”

July 4 Service Information:
• Subway: The Red, Orange, Blue, and Green lines will operate a modified Saturday schedule until 3 PM. After 3 PM, all lines will operate a regular weekday schedule. 

• Bus and Silver Line: All routes will operate a Sunday schedule.

• Commuter Rail: All lines will operate a weekend schedule.
Passengers should note that all last Commuter Rail trains leaving North Station and South Station will be held for 30 minutes after the close of the fireworks before making final return trips.
Passengers will also be able to board trains at Back Bay station.
Keolis Customer Service agents will be present at North, South, and Back Bay stations to support passengers.
Passengers should note that the last train of the evening on the Newburyport/Rockport branch is a Rockport train.

• The RIDE: All RIDE services will operate a Sunday schedule. 

• Ferry:
The Hingham/Hull/Logan Ferry will run on a Saturday schedule.
The Charlestown Ferry will run on a weekend schedule.
The East Boston Ferry will run on a weekend schedule.
The Lynn Ferry will run on a weekend schedule.
The Winthrop/Quincy Ferry will not operate.
The CharlieCard Store will be closed on Thursday, July 4. 

Enhanced Security Measures & Safety Tips for Riders
The MBTA Transit Police Department will have an enhanced presence throughout the system to respond to any incidents.

To report an emergency, dial 911 or call the MBTA Transit Police Department at 617-222-1212. Riders are reminded that emergencies can also be reported anonymously with the SeeSay app on iPhone or Android device. The SeeSay app is monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and riders can expect a response within a few minutes of a report.

The MBTA stresses the importance of celebrating responsibly on public transit. Vandalism and disorderly conduct can create safety hazards, delays, and additional cleaning costs—which can divert valuable resources away from essential maintenance services and improvements that benefit all riders.

For more information, please visit mbta.com/holidays or connect with the T on X (the site formerly known as Twitter) @MBTA and @MBTA_CR_Alerts, Facebook /TheMBTA, Instagram @theMBTA, Threads @thembta, or TikTok @thembta.”-MBTA.

“***NBPD RECOVERY COACH SPRINGS INTO ACTION DURING EMERGENCY***

Not all heroes wear badges in our organization…

Haywood Barnes is a valued member of our agency and the living embodiment of a “gentle giant”. He exemplifies compassion and dedication as a recovery coach, supporting individuals grappling with addiction. Haywood’s approach is a testament to the profound impact that compassionate care can have in transforming lives and communities.

Haywood, we salute your actions!!”-City of New Bedford Police Department.

City of New Bedford Police Department photo.

“On Friday, June 28, 2024, the New Bedford Fire Department hosted a graduation ceremony at the Keith Middle School Auditorium. After an intensive 10-week training program nine new recruits became firefighters.

The graduating firefighters of Class 01-2024 represent the fire departments of New Bedford & Taunton.

New Bedford Fire Welcomes seven of the nine:

• Zachary Andrade
• Joseph Jorge *Class President
• Kyle King
• Jordan Mello
• Devin Ouimet
• Hermis Rivera *Valedictorian
• Shawn Souto.”-New Bedford Fire Department.

All photos by the New Bedford Fire Department:

“Congratulations to New Bedford Way Award Winner Sharon Thomas, Finance!

Sharon has worked in many departments since joining the City in 1987, and now as the Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer, she works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the finance department running like a well-oiled machine. CFO Bob Eckstrom said it best when talking about Sharon: “She is the embodiment of teamwork, there is no task she is unwilling to assume, no question for which she will not scour every available resource to answer. Your problem is her problem.” Sharon’s positive attitude and fresh approach are evident to anyone who is currently or has worked with her in the past. Congrats Sharon!

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The New Bedford Way Awards shine a spotlight on City workers who go above and beyond for their City and its residents. They’re the smiling face you see at City Hall; the person behind the scenes who makes everything run smoothly, the person out in the heat fixing the road or landscaping one of our many parks; or the police officer, firefighter or other emergency worker who is dedicated to keeping New Bedford an amazing place to live, work, and raise a family. The 2024 New Bedford Way Award winners, nominated by their supervisors, were recognized at a recent ceremony at Buttonwood Park, and were spotlighted on social media over the last week.”-City of New Bedford.