English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in New Bedford, MA

By Alison Kuznitz, State House News Service

Tobacco and nicotine products would eventually become banned in Massachusetts, under a regulatory trajectory that a trio of lawmakers hope will become law next session.

Sen. Jason Lewis and Reps. Tommy Vitolo and Kate Lipper-Garabedian announced Monday they plan to file legislation in January that would permanently block Bay Staters who are not yet old enough to buy tobacco and nicotine products from ever doing so legally here in the future.

Their plan, embraced by public health advocates that have pursued similar initiatives at the local levels, marks a dramatic escalation of the Legislature’s 2019 ban on the sale of all flavored tobacco products, which was partially aimed at curbing youth uptake of the substances. At a press conference, the lawmakers acknowledged they expect to encounter opposition from the tobacco industry, and touted local and state polices that have made inroads at combatting tobacco and nicotine addiction.

The “Nicotine-Free Generation” (NFG) bill aims to prevent future generations from becoming addicted to the substances, while allowing anyone who is already 21 or older at the time of the law’s passage to continue purchasing nicotine and tobacco products, which lead to heightened risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke and other illnesses. The proposal, should it win approval, would gradually eliminate “all sales of nicotine and tobacco products,” the lawmakers said.

People must be 21 and older to buy nicotine and tobacco products in Massachusetts.

Citizens for Adult Choice, which has condemned NFG initiatives across Massachusetts cities and towns, described the overarching policy as the “next step in an authoritarian movement that seeks to dictate many life choices of adults.” The group’s website, paid for by the New England Convenience Store & Energy Marketers Association, claims the policy creates a slippery slope that could pave the way for public health bans on alcohol, marijuana, sugary beverages, fast food and “placing a wager.”

The bill would replace the existing age-based eligibility system by instituting a birth cutoff date for which Massachusetts residents could still lawfully buy nicotine and tobacco products. A spokesman for Lewis could not say what that cutoff date would be.

Vitolo said nicotine products are “so addictive that it would be unfair to take them away from long-time users.”

“And, because they are so addictive, it would be unfair to allow those currently too young to lawfully purchase these products to ever do so,” Vitolo said. “This legislation treats everyone fairly. Those who are not old enough now to obtain nicotine products will never be old enough to buy them in Massachusetts. Those who are old enough today will always be old enough.”

Vitolo represents Brookline, which in 2021 became the first municipality in the country to ban the sale of nicotine products to individuals born after Jan. 1, 2000.

The Supreme Judicial Court upheld Brookline’s ordinance despite pushback from some retailers, including convenience store owners. Similar policies have since been adopted in Concord, Malden, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Reading, Stoneham, Wakefield and Winchester, according to the lawmakers.

Vitolo and Lipper-Garabedian say they expect to encounter legal challenges should their bill become law.

“Presumably, there a lot of special interests and profit motivations that may lead to judicial action,” Lipper-Garabedian said. “And at the same time, the SJC decision gives us a lot of confidence that this can be upheld.”

Lewis called the bill the next step in a decades-long effort to reduce the harm caused by the addictive products. Massachusetts would be the first state in the country to enact such a restriction on tobacco and nicotine products, Lewis said.

“By gradually, effectively raising the age, it will make it more difficult for teenagers to get access to tobacco products. Now I acknowledge it’s not going to make it impossible — they will still find ways, but it will make it more difficult,” Lewis said. “These products will be less available and accessible to teenagers, and so I believe that that will lead to a reduction in the usage of these products by young people, and eventually by people of all ages.”

Meher Shahrawat, a Winchester High School senior who works with the Mystic Valley Public Health Coalition, said NFG “represents an end,” as said policies such as flavor bans are not working to prevent high school students from using the products. The solution, she said, is eliminating nicotine “completely” for future generations.

“I think that NFG is efficient in the sense that it truly does call for a nicotine-free next generation, but it does so gradually, so that it is not an immediate detriment economically,” Shahrawat said.

“The reality is that this policy is not a detriment to store owners and distributors at the current moment because this policy is strategic,” she added. “It’s based on birth year, and it’ll take some time for convenience stores to lose their tobacco and nicotine sales. This allows them to adapt and to stay in business.”

The New England Convenience Store & Energy Marketers Association has repeatedly rebuked other local “nicotine-free generation” measures, calling them a discriminatory ban for adults who would not be old enough to buy the products. The association says restricting the choices of legal products to some adults is “fundamentally wrong,” warns the ban creates and supports a “dangerous illicit market,” and fails to address under-age youth use and nicotine products.

Worcester earlier this year rejected a measure to phase out the sale of cigarettes and other nicotine products in the city, the Telegram & Gazette reported. The newspaper also published a column from Peter Brennan, executive director of the association, praising Worcester’s action to “protect the rights of customers and small businesses.”

“Worcester was correct to reject this governmental overreach, especially as access to gambling, combustible cannabis and alcohol is being expanded daily,” Brennan wrote. “All these products — including nicotine and tobacco — are legal and belong where they currently are today: in licensed, regulated environments that only sell age-restricted products to adults. To single out tobacco and nicotine while removing barriers to access for these other harmful products is governmental hypocrisy at its worst.”

After Massachusetts restricted the sale of flavored tobacco products in 2019, New York and New Jersey a year later banned the sale of flavored e-cigarettes, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. California later banned the sale of flavored e-cigarettes and menthol cigarettes, a measure that was challenged by a tobacco industry coalition but upheld by voters, according to Reuters.

Vitolo noted the Massachusetts flavor ban was filed and passed in the same session.

“We’re hoping for a similar speediness by the Legislature,” Vitolo said. “We’re prepared to have 200 conversations, one with each member of the House and Senate, and work with our colleagues one at a time until we get there.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last month said that tobacco product use among middle and high schoolers reached its lowest point in 25 years. Some 2.25 million middle and high school students reported using a tobacco product in 2024, compared to 2.8 million in 2023. Health officials attributed the decline to a major drop in e-cigarette use.

Beyond state and local laws, companies have taken major steps to tackle tobacco addiction.

Stop & Shop, the commonwealth’s largest grocery store chain, stopped selling tobacco products over the summer as the company voiced its commitment to improving community health outcomes. CVS stopped selling cigarettes in 2014, becoming the first nationwide pharmacy to ban the products from its stores.

Alex D. Tavares, New Bedford, MA— Alex D. Tavares tragically passed away on May 10, 2024, while vacationing in Puerto Rico. The loss has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community. Alex, a beloved artist and aspiring recording artist, was known for his passion for the arts and his kind, gentle nature. He had an infectious ability to bring joy to those around him, often making people laugh and always putting others first.

In honor of Alex’s memory, his family has established the Alex D. Tavares Scholarship Fund, which aims to support high school students pursuing their artistic dreams. The fund is a way to ensure Alex’s legacy continues to inspire the next generation of young artists. As of now, $325 has been raised, with generous donations from friends and loved ones, including contributions from Kajette Bloomfield, Madeline Burke, Esmael Semedo, and Wendy Wallace.

"Thank you all so much for the birthday blessings! I’m truly grateful to see another year. God is faithful! My one ask: Please consider donating to this fundraiser in memory of my nephew, Alex," wrote Wendy Wallace in a heartfelt post on Facebook, encouraging others to contribute to the scholarship fund.

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Alex’s passing has left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His passion for art and music, his love for nature, and his gentle soul will always be remembered. He leaves behind cherished memories of his time spent drawing, playing games, and finding inner peace through meditation.

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We are deeply saddened by Alex D. Tavares’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

Short Summary of Alex D. Tavares

Prayer Message: May Alex’s soul rest in peace, and may his family find strength during this incredibly difficult time.

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Note:This post was written and edited by Sophia Smith, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.

“Wrapped in Love – The Scarf Event, a community group of volunteer knitters, visited Campbell School New Bedford.

Group leader Celeste Cabral reminded students ‘To be kind, practice kindness every day with everyone.’ Students selected a free hand-knitted scarf from hundreds of colorful unique scarfs.”-New Bedford Public Schools.

Photos by New Bedford Public Schools:

About “Wrapped in Love”:

“Welcome to the scarf event!!! My mission statement is a simple one that began with a desire to give to children in need. My dream is to get enough people to knit and donate scarfs, so that during the week before Thanksgiving I can go to an area school and give each child in the entire school a scarf.

I am a knitter myself and recently retired, and within a month’s time found I had made 30 scarfs. My husband began asking me what I was going to do with all the scarfs, and at the time I told him I didn’t know but I would think about it. I went to bed that night with the scarfs on my mind. Upon waking the very next morning I knew what I was going to do. I was going to give them to children in need. Never being able to have children myself, my heart has always held a special place for them and all children should be wrapped in love and warm in the winter months.

I began talking about this idea to several of my friends, who were all very supportive and stated that they would be happy to knit and donate to this event. Everyone knows someone who knits!

As of right now, I have people knitting from Rehoboth, MA all the way to Cape Cod, MA.

Please join us on this journey and warm the hearts of as many children as we possibly can. If you would like to knit and donate a scarf, we would be happy to pick up the scarf or meet you in a public place for the exchange.”

Mass.gov photo.

“BOSTON — With precipitation at an unprecedented low over the last three months, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Rebecca Tepper today elevated the Western, Connecticut River Valley, and Southeast regions to a Level 3 – Critical Drought.

A Level 3 – Critical Drought persists in the Central and Northeast regions. The Cape and Islands regions remain at a Level 0 – Normal condition. As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level 3 – Critical Drought requires detailed monitoring of drought conditions, continued coordination among state and federal agencies to communicate the implementation of water use restrictions, declaration of bans on open burning, engagement with municipalities including local Board’s of Health, providing technical outreach and assistance to water suppliers and affected municipalities. The Drought Management Task Force will meet biweekly in the coming months to ensure responsive oversight of the drought.

Mass.gov photo.

“Massachusetts is experiencing critical drought conditions that are fueling unprecedented and destructive wildfires across the state,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Climate change is reshaping our region’s weather patterns, resulting in warmer and drier fall and winter seasons. Water conservation is more important than ever. We urge municipalities, residents, and businesses – including those with private wells – to help us reduce stress on our water systems. We need to work together to ensure we have enough clean drinking water, protect wildlife habitats, and maintain effective fire control. Every small effort counts.”

“As drought conditions intensify, MEMA continues to work with our partners on the Drought Management Task Force and with those coordinating the ongoing response to wildfires,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency Director Dawn Brantley. “This is not your normal fire season, but everyone can help protect your family, your home, your community, and the responders on the front lines by avoiding anything that could create a spark or ember outdoors.”

Over the past 30 days, most of the state received less than an inch of rain, which is 3 to 4.5 inches below normal. Many areas recorded their lowest rainfall ever for this time of the year. Since August, when dry conditions began, all regions except the Cape and the Islands have seen an 8 to 11 inch rainfall deficit.

Streamflow has also sharply decreased, especially in the Central region. This has resulted in dry brooks and streambeds, increased ponding, exposed beaches and sediments, limited fish passage, and drying ponds. Furthermore, groundwater levels are falling quickly in all regions, with the Western, Connecticut River Valley, Central, and Northeast regions showing the largest drops. Residents can report dry environmental conditions they are experiencing and submit photos to support state drought monitoring efforts here.

Fire activity has increased across the state because of drought conditions, leading to wildfires that are burning deeper into the soil. Due to fire conditions, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has implemented a temporary ban of all open flame and charcoal fires within state park properties. Small portable propane grills are still allowed at campgrounds and recreation areas where grilling is permitted. This situation can make it harder to control fires and may prolong fire incidents. About 200 cities and towns have implemented temporary restrictions on all outdoor burning: residents are encouraged to follow local and state guidance on any activity that involves open flames, sparks and embers, or other ignition sources outdoors.

Currently, there are approximately 37 active wildfires across the state. This year’s fire season has lasted longer because of dry conditions. Hundreds of wildfires have broken out across the state since October 1, burning more land than Massachusetts usually sees in an entire year. As firefighting efforts demand significant water resources, it’s crucial for residents to practice aggressive indoor water conservation to maintain sufficient supply and pressure in public water systems.

“About 200 cities and towns have implemented local bans on any outdoor fires under Section 10.10.2 of the State Fire Code,” said State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine. “We’re reminding all residents to follow the state and municipal guidance on fire protection because in the current drought conditions any outdoor fire is likely to catch, spread, and threaten people and property. Every firefighter battling a preventable wildfire is one who can’t respond to a house fire, car crash, or medical emergency.”

“The combination of drought conditions and dry fuel conditions means that we continue to be at high risk of wildfires across Massachusetts. We urge everyone to exercise caution and remember, even a small spark can ignite a larger fire in these conditions,” said Department of Conservation and Recreation Chief Fire Warden Dave Celino. “We all have a role to play in reducing the risk of new fires by following local fire restrictions and practicing responsible water conservation to ensure firefighters across the state have the resources we need to combat these fires.”

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to provide technical assistance to communities in managing systems, including assistance on the use of emergency connections and water supplies.

It is important to note that the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water supply system is not experiencing drought conditions, as defined within its individual plan. However, private well users and other sources of water within the same MWRA serviced communities are impacted by drought conditions.

All sources of water, regardless of their location or type of withdrawal, ultimately draw from the same river basin. This means that the water in private wells often originates from the same source as the public water supply in that basin. During this critical drought and with decreasing groundwater levels, water levels in private wells can also decline and those on private wells are also strongly urged to conserve water as outlined below.

Below are recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within a Level 3 – Critical Drought region, including those utilizing a private well. Residents and businesses are also asked to check with their local water system in case more stringent watering restrictions are in place.

For Regions in Level 3 – Critical Drought

Residents and Businesses:

Immediate Steps for Communities:

Short – and Medium – Term Steps for Communities:

Officials remind everyone to follow these outdoor fire prevention steps:

State agencies will continue to closely monitor and assess conditions across the state, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help federal, state, and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. The Drought Management Task Force will meet again on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 10:00 AM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, visit the EEA’s drought and water conservation pages. “-Mass.gov.

NEW BEDFORD — The iconic North End hot dog stand Gary's Best Hot Dogs at 958 Ashley Blvd. will be closing for good sometime in the new year, the business announced on social media early Friday morning.

"After much thought, and after 40 years in business, total retirement is on our agenda for 2025," the post, from Gary's Best Hot Dogs Facebook account, reads. "With appreciation for so many years of a successful business, we will be sharing news as to what the future will entail.

"That being said, it’s extremely heartbreaking to hear of so many small businesses closing their doors after decades of service to the area. The end of an era for many."

The news has come right on the heels of the Nov. 14 announcement that Yor Dogg Mil, at 847 Kempton St., will also be closing its doors, with ownership there referencing over 50 years of business. Other recent local food business closings have included Carmine's at Candleworks, Mimi’s, Dough Company, and Rustico.

Final days:Another New Bedford restaurant staple set to close its doors in December

"Appreciating the memories that will live on throughout several generations makes it a bit easier," Gary Best Hot Dogs' post reads. "The employees over the years that become family and the customers that make the work and service so worth the effort!"

When is Gary's Best closing?

While the post doesn't indicate exactly when Gary's Best Hot Dogs will close permanently, announcements of the business's schedule over the coming months offers this much: It should still be open as of March 2025.

"We will be closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. ... With New Years Day following, we are announcing that we will be closed the months of January and February 2025 for the winter season. Reopening in March 2025," the post reads.

Anita Franco, who has co-owned Gary's Best with her husband Joe Franco since 1984, told The Standard-Times a closing date "is nowhere at all in mind at this point."

"Once we decide then it will be put out there. Lots to think about at this time of the year. That’s why in 2025 we will move forward with details," Anita Franco said.

What's to blame?These Greater New Bedford restaurants closed in recent months

For Gary's Best owners, idea of retirement is bittersweet

For Mr. and Mrs. Franco, now in their 70s, Gary's Best has been at the center of four decades' worth of family memories.

"Contemplating retirement was difficult the past year," Anita Franco said, noting her husband has been finding the idea of retirement "difficult to accept" as well, especially considering the four decades of memories made there as a family. "Needless to say, it’s difficult to understand where 40 years have gone."

Gary's Best first opened on Mother's Day weekend, 1984, Anita Franco said. She and her husband decided to name the business after their son, Gary, who was four when it opened and grew up working there.

"At the start it was fun trying to pick a name amongst ourselves," she said, noting "Franco's Franks" had been one idea before settling on Gary's Best Hot Dogs. "[I] think we made the better choice in the end," she laughed.

Gary's Best owner was once Standard-Times' Man of the Year

In 2013, Joe Franco was named The Standard-Times' 2013 Man of the Year for Acushnet. The article noted Franco's exceptional willingness to donate to community causes, like GNB Voc-Tech's after-prom party, Relay for Life events to benefit cancer research, and Acushnet Veterans Memorial Committee, to name a few.