
Sheriff, police chiefs clash over arrestees refused at Ash Street Jail
Records obtained by The Light show Ash Street Jail refused to admit people 135 times following medical and mental health screenings in 2025. That’s up from 32 refusals in 2022.

Federal regulations may impact arts programs at UMass Dartmouth
The U.S. Department of Education finalized federal regulations that may affect the arts program’s eligibility for federal student loans. So far the university has not come up with a plan to fight back.
Opinion: Civility has never meant avoiding conflict
It means remembering that the person across from us deserves to be treated with dignity, even when we are convinced they are wrong.
‘A day of hope … A day of action’: Governor signs PROTECT Act into law
The act, which takes effect immediately, offers myriad protections for immigrants and permits the civil litigation in state courts of federal officers who violate civil rights in the course of immigration enforcement.
Downtown eateries share limelight with newly refurbished Zeiterion
Several area restaurant owners and managers say there has been a definite uptick in patrons during performance nights at the Zeiterion.
Register now for The Chat: Mayor Jon Mitchell talks election monitors, the unhoused and a new riverwalk
New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell will be Jack Spillane’s guest on The Chat for the full hour on Thursday, Aug. 13, at 1 p.m.
▶︎ Coming up
CULTURE CALENDAR
Art Drive, Latin jazz, film discussion, and open mic
Latin Jazz Summer & Salsa Night turns up the heat at the Whaling Museum with tropical beats on Friday, Aug. 7.
CIVIC LIFE
Donation drop off sites needed, summer food program, Women of Distinction nominations, and community health fair
Local food pantries need help building supplies as SNAP benefits change. Reggae on West Beach (ROWB) is organizing a food and baby item drive for area families in need.
▶︎ Fish auction prices
The Daily Catch
The New Bedford Light brings you “The Daily Catch” — a listing of the latest seafood prices from the Buyers and Sellers Exchange, updated weekdays by noon.
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