The town of Bristol recently welcomed some special visitors, thanks to the efforts of David Loureiro and other local businessmen and political leaders.

“I was the one that invited them so we wouldn’t be forgotten in our society and the Portuguese community itself,” explained Mr. Loureiro, owner of David’s Barbershop and president/CEO of Magazine Apraca. “I do like to connect our village of Bristol with the rest of the world. That’s why the Magazine Apraca (Town Square) exists, for a better world.”

The group visited Bristol Town Hall and NorthCoast Boats, among other locations, and stopped at the Lobster Pot Restaurant later for lunch. The group included Jose DaPonte, owner of NorthCoast Boats and C&C Fiberglass, José Andrade, Director das Comunidades Açoreanas, Rui Faria, Presidente da Associação dos Immigrants de São Miguel, Açores, and Francisco Viveiros, President da casa dos Açores de Fall River.

“It was a very productive visit,” said Mr. Loureiro, “and the group did enjoy our town of Bristol… with thoughts of coming back again.”

While visiting Town Hall, the group was greeted by Town Council Chairman Nathan Calouro and Chris Vitale, economic development coordinator. The visitors also received special Bristol Christmas Festival mementoes to mark the occasion.

“I can’t tell you how proud we all are to have these gentlemen in our fair town,” Mr. Loureiro said in conclusion. “They really enjoyed this visit and we’re happy with the way everything worked out.”