Cabo Verde Political Social Club
“THE BOMB”
KAREN (ALVES) JENKINS
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Karen and her Brothers Easter circa 1958
Karens’ parents on their Weddding Day Nov 30, 1946
Local Girl purchases “The Bomb” Home 2010
My name is Karen (Alves) Jenkins ARTIST,MOTHER,GRAND/GREAT-GRANDMOTHER SISTER FRIEND I am an artist of Cape Verdean descent. With 69 years of life behind me, most of which were spent in the city of New Bedford, MA, I have quite a journey to share. Along this journey, I've been fortunate to explore various parts of the world, including Europe, London, the Caribbean, and the Netherlands. These travels took place alongside my then-future husband, culminating in our marriage in 2003 and a relocation to Gibraltar/Spain, where we resided for over 15 months. Throughout my life, I've experienced various transitions and revelations. One such pivotal moment was after my divorce in 2009, when I realized my strong desire to own a home of my own. This realization led me to explore options in my childhood neighborhood, the South end, where I spent my formative years. As destiny would have it, the internet played a crucial role in guiding me towards the home I would eventually call my own. The image that greeted me was that of a property in the very neighborhood where I was born at 183 Bay Village, a place brimming with memories of my upbringing with parents and with my three brothers. After the unexpected death of my mother when I was 4, I went to live my fathers sister and her husband and their family on Pleasant Street.
OWNER OF THE FORMER BOMB This property had undergone a transformation orchestrated by The Resource Inc. (TRI), an organization dedicated to reviving abandoned and neglected properties across the city. This historic property is more than over a century old, had been restored through a collaborative effort involving TRI, New Bedford Office of Housing and Community Development. Situated at 243 Acushnet Ave, this home held a special place in the heart of the Cape Verdean community, an enclave with roots dating back to the days when the whaling industry brought individuals from the Cape Verde Islands, located 300 miles off the coast of Senegal, Africa, to this region. Familiar with the neighborhood's history, it was ironic that I initially failed to recognize the newly renovated building. However, as I crossed the threshold, the curved staircase in the front hallway triggered a sense of recognition. It dawned on me that this property was, none other than the former "Bomb Shelter," a social club and bar that had once been a bustling hub for not only the Cape Verdean community but also for residents from across the city and even Rhode Island. My journey to homeownership was intertwined with the city's First-time Homebuyers’ Program. Qualified individuals and families would then be entered into a lottery, and a random draw would determine the fortunate homeowner. Applying in late January or early February of 2010, I embarked on a journey of not only applying but also manifesting my deep desire to make this house my own. Through daily mantras and a heart full of gratitude, I envisioned myself as the proud owner of this cherished property. The anticipated lottery was scheduled for March, yet fate took an unexpected turn. A call came, informing me that I was the sole applicant who met the criteria, leading to a dilemma. While some viewed this as an unfair outcome, I embraced it as a sign of destiny. Eventually, the city recognized the truth: I was indeed the winner, and I was granted the opportunity to purchase the home I had dreamt of. By June, 2010, my son and I moved into the house, he on the first and I on the second floor, a pivotal moment that aligned perfectly with my manifested aspirations.
COMMUNITY ALLY As a resident of my childhood neighborhood for the past 13 years, this home has become the embodiment of my connection to my heritage and my identity. In a community deeply ingrained in Cape Verdean culture and history, I stand as a legacy resident alongside many others who have witnessed the neighborhood's evolution. With my roots firmly planted, I intend to spend the rest of my days in this cherished home. However, my aspirations go beyond my personal journey. I harbor a deep desire to ensure that my children understand the historical significance of this home and the community it resides. New Bedford, often referred to as the "City that lit the world," holds a rich history, from its whaling legacy to being the home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass. The city also played a crucial role in providing sanctuary to runaway slaves through the Underground Railroad, with the help of compassionate Quakers who opened their homes to these individuals. Regrettably, the significance of these neighborhoods has yet to be formally recognized on the United States Historical Register. Urban renewal efforts in the 1960s took a toll on this community, tearing down historical landmarks to make way for parking lots and infrastructure projects that disrupted the fabric of the community. This redlining and lack of proper recognition perpetuated economic disparities and marginalized the contributions of Cape Verdeans and other disenfranchised groups. Driven by determination and tenacity, I am committed to rectifying this oversight. My goal is to ensure that the city acknowledges and commemorates the historical value of these neighborhoods and the people who shaped them. I yearn to see this vision realized before my time on this earth comes to an end. This, you could say, is my current "Manifestation Project" — a project that encapsulates not only my personal journey but also my dedication to preserving the legacy of a community and its people who have often been overlooked by history.
Bay Village Military housing - a post-World War II solution to the suburban housing boom other than tightly packed Public Projects. New Bedford circa 1940's and 1950’s
From left: Shinelle Kirk - Research Associate for the Healthy Neighborhoods Study, Karen Alves, Legacy Resident, Resident Researcher and current homeowner of “ The Bomb”, Dina Abreu Resident Researcher
The Healthy Neighborhoods Study (HNS), based in Boston, is the largest resident-driven, participatory action research project in the US about neighborhood change processes, like gentrification and climate change, and their impact on health. We believe in the expertise of the residents most harshly impacted by gentrification and climate change and of the advocates who work to address these impacts. They are exactly the leaders we need to understand these injustices and develop solutions to correct them. We use research to fuel organizing and action for equitable development without displacement in Greater Boston. Through Participatory Action Research (PAR), residents, advocates, and planners work with academic researchers to turn their lived experiences, insights, and expertise into the data, facts, and information. The 9 Massachusetts communities taking part in the Healthy Neighborhoods Study are the cities of: Brockton, Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Fall River. New Bedford and the Boston Neighborhoods of Dorchester, Mattapan, Roxbury. Resident Researchers and Community Partners design surveys, interviews, and observational tools to collect data that informs action on topics that matter most to their own neighborhoods, advocacy, and health. We use our HNS 5-step PAR process to engage residents, understand their research interests, and ensure that tools are designed to respectfully collect useful and actionable data. Our surveys and interviews include both new questions written and tested by HNS, and questions from surveys that other groups and researchers have used in their work.
You can learn more at: www.hns.mit.edu
From Research to Action This Spring, amid the changing landscape of New Bedford, our team gathered and reviewed some of the findings that we collected from the surveys. We were determined to understand what we observed as shifts in demographics, culture, and social dynamics that had reshaped our community. We were shocked to learn that although much transformation was happening, over 70% of the residents surveyed did not plan on leaving this neighborhood. In fact, over 66% of those residents had lived in this neighborhood for more than ten years. Still, while some were deeply rooted, 41% were forced to move because they had been displaced. With this information in hand, we brainstormed ways to bring the community together to remind everyone of the history and cultural significance of the neighborhood. We decided to focus our efforts on a long-closed cultural hub that brought people together from all walks of life. Our mission was to “re-open” this establishment, just for one day, to encourage residents to wander through moments of their past, relive the joy and laughter, and remind them why they should protect this neighborhood for future generations. We believe that the success of this day is a testament to the pride in our history and culture.
Dina & Eldric Abreu , Karen Jenkins and Gail Roderigues
THE BOMB, WHERE IT STARTED Alfred “Nene’’ Pina Alfredo dos Santos de Pina- “Nene” affectionately known to his friends was born on the Island of Fogo, Cape Vede at the time it was a Portugues possession on April 7, 1898. He was the son of Marianna dos Santos and Pedro de Pina, a wealthy landowner.
Alfred "Nene" Pina seeing touches of grandeur all around the city of New Bedford which inspired him in his life to work continuously uplifting his community
The old police headquarters on South Second Street Experiencing cobblestone streets and small cafés
Easy access to the working waterfront. Whaling ships docked at pier.
Alfredo dos Santos de Pina, affectionately known as "Nene," had an incredible journey in life. Born in Cape Verde in 1898, he faced early hardships and eventually embarked on a whaling ship to the United States at the age of 16 to seek a better life for his family. He worked tirelessly in various jobs, saved money, and became a homeowner in 1923. “Nene” married Maria Barros and together they had 10 children. “Nene” was not only a loving father but also a disciplinarian when needed. He acquired properties through auctions during and after the Great Depression, including the historic 243 Acushnet Ave house which later became the Bomb Shelter, a popular gathering place for Cape Verdeans. His hard work and determination made him a successful foreman on the wharfs and a fashionable dresser once he owned the Bomb. Despite his limited formal education, “Nene” made sure his children felt special, and his wealth was measured in the love he had for them and his neighborhood. His story is a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals who come to America in search of a better life.
Papi
SAYINGS You can learn something from every person you meet Anyone can spend money; it takes a wise man to save Education is Key I always pay a man for what he knows You never get rich working; you must invest your money
The Pina family Helen, Eva, Alred Jr, Maria, Alfred Sr, Antione “Micky”, Anita, Manny second row Burt, Edward, Richard, Frank
BARRY GOMES Alfred “Nene” Pinas Grandson
This photo is the last glimpse of the intact bar before the demolition that was so iconic to the Bomb shelter for all those patrons that frequented this establishment over many decades. --NB Healthy Neighborhood team
THE BOMB BAR
Dina & Eldric Abreu , Karen Jenkins and Gail Roderigues
DJACAI
Past owners
The Bomb
ALRED PINA MR GAVIN JULIA/ JOHN COSTA JOHN SPENCER FLIP ROSE DAVID ANDRADE “DJACAI” JULIO TAVARES JON PINA
John and Lee
The third grade class from T.A. Green school
THE BOMB
Discovering the impact of a community gathering space that would mold these children’s lives for over 5 decades. Some would stay, leave, some would stay come back to the neighborhood. It took a Cape Verdean to buy the home and recognize the historical treasure it had on the community. Starting out as a Cape Verdean Political club in 1932 then to be home to The Bomb Shelter venue till 1990's. A welcoming atmosphere for all. --NB Healthy Neighborhood team
The Bomb
THE BOMB BARTENDER
While discovering the impact of this signifant community gathering space we found Lee Bennett who would collect photographs of “the Bomb” during her tenure as a bartender for over 20 years. We wish to pay tribute to her for allowing the collection she shares in this book. --NB Healthy Neighborhood team
Lee and her connection to the Cape Verdean community in New Bedford Lee's life was intertwined with her stepfather Levi Gomes who was part of the family of the A. F Gomes who was one of New Bedford’s most important civic leaders. Lee's biological father was from Newfoundland, Canada, but Levi became her stepfather when she was just 2 years old. This marked her integration into the Cape Verdean community. They lived at 199 South Water Street in New Bedford, in the Cape Verdean neighborhood. Unfortunately, this neighborhood would later be affected by eminent domain for urban renewal, with the construction of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway (Rte. 18) dividing the community. Despite the changes in the neighborhood, Lee stayed connected to the Cape Verdean community. She settled in at Purchase Street and remained an integral part of the community. Lee had a long-standing relationship with Micky Pina, the oldest boy from the Pina family. She also worked as a bartender at "The Bomb" in the Pina family's basement, further cementing her ties to the community.Lee was actively involved in the Cape Verdean community. She bartended at local cafes and participated in serving Meals on Wheels at Boa Vista housing. Lee recalls growing up in the neighborhood meant that everyone looked out for each other, especially the children. It was a tight-knit community where you could not get away with misbehavior because someone was always watching. This sense of community was deeply ingrained. Lee fondly remembers the strong smells from the creosote dumped by factories near the piers and water. She also reminisces about playing with other children in the neighborhood, particularly playing Hide and Seek in the Indian cemetery.
Laurie Pina Calderone and Lee
Lee and son on South Water Street
THE RTE 18 RE-DESIGN
While discovering the impact of this significant community gathering space we found the Rt 18 redesign project took half of the CV neighborhood by eminent domain to make way for the highway that ended at Fort Tabor. The segment of Route 18 is part of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway. --NB Healthy Neighborhood team
NEW BEDFORD 1960-1970 Lees sister Sandra Petti Lee
Lee and son
Barbara Freeman
Lee’s family
Lee Bennett, The Bomb - Bartender early years
The Tavares R&B group
Jeanette “Mitiz” and Lou Britto
John Pina Owner and Lees Mother Mitiz
Lee
THE BOMB 1980-1990
Marita Andrade
Julia Costa Former owner, John Liveramento Bartender
Do you know who these people are?
THE BOMB MUSCIANS 1960-1990
Toi Grace musician featured at the BOMB
Headliner “Chops” Turner famous singer serenades Cynthia Denise
THE BOMB MUSCIANS
Tiny Tavares
PHOTOGRAPHS WERE GATHERED
Victor
Victor Jackie
Jackie Gathering a treasure trove of photographs of the Bomb
Karen, Jackie and Victor second generation Cape Verdean residents educating the newer residents
Welcome Presentation WELCOME TO OUR EVENT! AS YOU STEP THROUGHT THESE DOORS
"Welcome to our event! As you step through these doors, we invite you to take a journey back in time and rediscover a piece of your childhood. Do you remember the thrill of hearing the Pony Boy truck's jingle in your neighborhood on a hot summer day? Or the joy of running through sprinklers with your friends? Perhaps you recall the excitement of going to the Bomb the HUB of the neighborhood that holds a special place in our hearts. A place where grandparents shared stories with their grandchildren, and where families gather for generations, “The Bomb” has been a central hub for the community. These simple pleasures may seem like distant memories now, but we believe that they are still worth celebrating. By coming together today, we can share in the joy of these shared experiences and hold onto the magic of our youth and community. Together, we can build a future that honors our past and creates new memories and experiences for generations to come." So, take a deep breath and allow yourself to be transported back in time. Who knows what forgotten treasures you might rediscover and what new memories you might make? Let's enjoy this journey together!"
Presentcão Bem-vindo IN CREOLE
Bem-vindo na nosso evento! Assim ke bo passa de esse porta, no ta convidabo pa faze um viagem no passado e redescobri um pedacinho de bo infância. Bo ta lembra dakele emoção de ouvi pito d’caminhão de sorvete na bo vizinhança durante um verão quente? Ou a alegria de corre entre choveiros de agua na rua ma bos amigos? Talvez bo ta lembre da emoção de bai pa Bomb kel lugar mas popular na nos rua na kel tempo tem um lugar special na nos corações. Esse simples lembrancas pode parce que era diazam, mas acredita que ainda vale a pena celebras.Nesse moment que no ta ali reunidos no pode compartilha nos alegria dakes experiências ke ta parce tao longe mas ainda tem kel magia de nos juventude e de nos comunidade. Então, respire bem fundo e dexa esse momento transportabo pa bo passado . kem sabe! Talvez tesouro esquecido pode fazebo cria novas momentos . No bai la ness jornada junto!"
CAPE VERDEAN “BOMB” COLLECTION
Before
After
OPENING DAY MAY21, 2023
PHOTOGRAPHS WERE GATHERED To highlight what they had and what they will miss it if was gone in the future if the neighborhood was gentrified.
Cape Verdean residents
Nene grandchilden
COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS
THE TRADITION CONTINUES WITH THE PARADE We highlighted what they had and what they will miss it if was gone in the future if the neighborhood was gentrified.
Cape Verdean Recognition Parade 2019
C. V. Recognition Parade circa 1970's
THE CAPE VERDEAN 51 ST ANNUAL CAPE VERDEAN RECOGNITION PARADE 2023
Ana Maria Cabral, a lifelong diplomat and government official once married to Amilcar Cabral Photo Courtesy of Jeanne Costa of the The PAIGCV Women Warriors Committee sponsored the visit of Mrs. Ana Maria Cabral (wife of the late great Amilcar Cabral) and daughter N’Dira De Sa’Cabral Embalo to recognize and honor Mrs. Cabral and her female comrades of the PAIGCV WOMAN WARRIORS for their participation, courageousness, and service during and after the struggle for independence in Guinea Bissau and Cabo Verde.
THE BOMB
A Gathering at the Bomb Shelter after all these years was a way of reflecting the strength of New Bedford’s Cape Verdean community. The “Bomb” that had been an important part of the neighborhood's Cape Verdeans heritage since Dec 2, 1933, and its loss of history would be a significant blow to the community's identity and sense of place.With the commuter rail coming down from Boston we had been working to avoid gentrification of this neighborhood. Our Action project was an Open House to share stories of events and experiences at the “Bomb Shelter.”- the shelter that had become an iconic meeting place – a basement a neighborhood home that became a gathering place for many generations of Cape Verdeans. We spread positivity and raised our voices to let all know that community pride is available to all. NB -Healthy Neighborhood team
2019
MURAL
BISCA
CLF Healthy Neighborhood Study
Not just a community, here is a taste of a diverse community in unity
Instilling Community Pride
The idea for a mural on Bisca Tournament Club was initiated by club president Ayres Gonzales, Dina Abreu, and Gail Roderigues
Conservation Law Foundation and MIT Urban Studies Department and funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
David Guadalupe Artist of the Mural and of SUPERFLAT NB , who is half Cape Verdean and the grandson of the Bomb founder Alfred Pina. The mural, located on Acushnet Avenue, depicts a little girl holding a whaling ship with her grandmother’s hand on her shoulders, with the islands of Cape Verde on their right and the buildings of New Bedford on their left. The whaling ship is meant to represent the contributions Cape Verdean’s made to the whaling industry in New Bedford.
David Guadalupe expressed how important it was to reflect the community and was delighted when a young girl exclaimed “That looks like me! “ as shown on left.
MY WISH FOR FUTURE CV GENERATIONS
Rediscovering our history through the generations and beyond
Reflection and Photo by Frank Pina
My reflection is fondly remembering of a closeknit neighborhood growing up where values like respect for elders, community support embracing raising the neighborhood children, and a strong work ethic were deeply ingrained. My father was known as “Papi” and was not only my hero but also a champion of the neighborhood, always ready to lend a helping hand, including quietly helping Amilcar Cabral, the father of CV independence in the early 70s and offered a meeting space in his properties to promote Cape Verdean independence.
Frank Pina My father's role as a hero and champion of the neighborhood, including his quiet support for Cape Verdean independence, exemplifies the spirit of compassion, fairness, and integrity that his children inherited and carried forward. “We grew up our family with Integrity, I now see is our legacy; I did my part, and my father would be proud of me today.” This neighborhood and “the Bomb” played central roles in the lives of its residents, offering a sense of community and support during challenging times like the Great Depression and World War II as a testament to the strength of this neighborhood. My longing for that sense of community and connection is a sentiment shared by many who have seen their neighborhoods change over time. Preserving these values and the sense of community is a noble goal, and my hope with this reflection will serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the close bonds and support networks that once defined his neighborhood. I hope to encourage residents to preserve these values and the sense of community for their children and grandchildren, and my reflection serves as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of maintaining the close bonds and support networks that define our neighborhood’s unique character. Let us all inspire others to carry these values forward for future generations.
This this my Home “I’m here to stay”
