Bullard shares his life of public service with readers in "Hometown"
With deep roots embedded in the Whaling City, former mayor of New Bedford and descendant of its founding family, John Bullard, shares tales of his hometown in a new memoir. His story “Hometown” highlights his journey as a federal leader and New Bedford’s plight to survive and thrive.
Who is John Bullard?
Bullard served as mayor of New Bedford from 1986 to 1992 during which he brought the city into compliance with the Clean Water Act by building a secondary wastewater treatment plant at Fort Rodman and paving the way for offshore wind to be located at the former Standard-Times Field.
He led the charge to save New Bedford’s suffering historic whaling district, alongside members of WHALE, who established the National Whaling Historic Park, the rescue of the Zeiterion Theatre, and the establishment of the Rotch-Jones-Duff House and Garden Museum.
Joining the Clinton Administration from 1993 to 1998, Bullard established the first federal office of Sustainable Development in NOAA and later served as Regional Administrator for NOAA Fisheries in the Northeast, managing all living marine resources in federal waters.
He co-founded the Southeastern Massachusetts Agricultural Partnership, SouthCoast Learning Network, and New Bedford Light. John also participated in the preservation of the Essex-built schooner Ernestina-Morrissey, and with the Buzzards Bay Coalition to save the bay and watershed. Presently, Bullard serves as chair of the New Bedford Ocean Cluster and the Westport Community Resilience Committee and on the boards of the Buzzards Bay Coalition and the Westport Planning Board.
What to expect in Bullard’s memoir
“Hometown is a state of mind” — it explores the ties that bind people to their hometowns, the true meaning of public service, and personal responsibility. In Bullard’s first book, published by Spinner Publications, a story is weaved of his family’s legacy and the pitfalls and promise of New Bedford.
Ballard shares how he grappled to make his own way into the world and what drew him back home to become a leading force in improving and preserving New Bedford. No matter how far he rose, Ballard never forgot his hometown and the importance of giving back to the community. His story gives insight into his own personal journey, accomplishments, and the growth of his beloved seaport.
You will feel a strong connection to the city as you flip through photograph after photograph that depicts New Bedford’s amazing architecture, art, and celebrations.
What are people saying about “Hometown”?
“This fascinating, fast-paced memoir is an absolute delight. If you care about New Bedford, the Atlantic fisheries, the seafaring traditions of New England, and the bare-knuckle world of politics, you need to get yourself a copy of Hometown. A truly great read. Highly recommended." said Nathaniel Philbrick, author of In the Heart of the Sea, Mayflower, and Travels with George in a press release.
“Fittingly, John Bullard’s engaging life story is something like a boat captain’s log of a remarkably successful voyage. Hometown takes us aboard as passengers and gives us the experience of a trying, adventuresome, productive learning experience...on the Ocean of Life.” Everett Hoagland, inaugural Poet Laureate of New Bedford; author of This City and Other Poems said in the release.
Where can you get “Hometown”?
“Hometown” is available at Spinner Publication or on Amazon for $34. There will be upcoming book talks and signings, visit Spinner’s Facebook for updated information.
This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Hometown by John Bullard share his journey and New Bedford's growth
