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Music, art flow through New Bedford’s Ken Richards

Rock and roll grabbed him as a teen, his love of painting came as an adult. Whether he’s playing for Pearly Baker Band or creating a scene in Greece, he’s always creating.

Toe Jam Puppet Band: 25 years of joy

Tom Poitras and Vinny Lovegrove’s zany kid shows blend rib-tickling songs, energetic movement, and gentle humor into an effervescent elixir. And they entertain the parents as well.

City Council ward candidates in the spotlight

Contested races in Wards 1, 2, and 5 heat up as the Nov. 4 general election approaches. Watch the full Chat with Jack Spillane here. Want to watch more Chats? We’ve got them all here.

New Bedford’s Eric Jay Santos — a man of many hats

“I’ve always wanted to be a sportswriter, I’ve always wanted to be a teacher, and I’ve always wanted to be a songwriter. To be able to do these three things at the same time, it feels like the pieces are coming nicely together.”

Performing artist Mary Elizabeth Rich’s second act

After a 25-year career, she’s found a new love in Stage Artistry Studios in New Bedford. The recent Tony nominee “doesn’t just teach, she invests in her students and in the community, and it shows.”

The lives of Cape Verdean whalers

Watch The Chat and hear from a panel of Cape Verdean whaler descendants and experts as they tell the stories of these great men and their families.

Pam Kuechler keeping PACE in a difficult time

“My ambitions for the organization are to see us come out the other side of these funding struggles and the challenges that we’re faced with right now to be as strong as possible.” — PACE executive director

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