First of the Essex Heritage Photo Safari’s scheduled for 6/4/11
Photo Safari featuring Olympus
Saturday, June 4, 7:00AM - 12:00PM
at Crane Beach & Castle Hill
299 Argilla Road Ipswich, MA 01938(map it)
With a state-of-the-art digital camera in hand, photographers at all levels can expand their skills, try the latest camera gear from Olympus, provided by Hunt's Photo & Video, and receive personal instruction from visiting professional photographers and Hunt's technical experts as we photograph this stunning historic estate with mesmerizing views of the shoreline and landscapes of sand dunes and salt marsh. All participants will take home the images they captured on a digital memory card and receive a gift certificate from Hunt's.
Ready to embark? Register Here! Tickets for the Safaris are available for purchase by credit card online. To pay by cash or check, call Essex Heritage at (978) 740-0444. For more information about the Photo Safari program, click here.
Essex Heritage relies on your participation and active engagement to fulfill our mission, support our partners and encourage stewardship of our treasured resources. Essex Heritage's Photo Safari program and Photo Contest costs are generously underwritten by Hunt's Photo & Video.
Gene Murray Dance Studio in Salem to Close
As we report today on numerous recreational activities, I thought I would report on the closing of a cultural institution in Salem. After 36 years teaching ballet, tap and ballroom dancing for both children and adults, the Gene Murray Dance studio on Essex Street in Salem next to the Peabody-Essex Museum will close its doors for good at the end of next month. Gene was a classmate of my wife Marge at Salem High School and we would see Gene from time to time at those reunions. He is a most entertaining person with a colorful personality, and he will be missed in the arts community of greater Salem.
Salem Ferry Delays the Start of its Commuter Season by Two Weeks
The Salem Ferry has been forced to hold off the start of the season for their daily ferry service between Salem and Boston until the middle of June. The rain in May caused a delay on the work to complete the parking lot at the Blamey Street Terminal to be delayed and it is not ready at this time to receive automobiles. This service is very important to the region, as the ferry brings many visitors to Salem every day, and they bring their tourist spending habits with them.
Danvers Swamp Walk Construction Questioned
Over the last several days the much praised Danvers Swamp Walk has been the subject of some public concern regarding its design and the possible inability of access by certain handicapped groups. I have in the past been a supporter and most complimentary of the efforts of a group of dedicated volunteers in Danvers that have come together to create this new recreational asset in Danvers. I remain most positive about their efforts, but as a person who recently became handicapped with the loss of a leg, the recent concerns raised about the access to the site by the handicapped have made me much more aware of those concerns. I recently received a message along with others in the community from the team that has created the Swamp walk project. The tone of that message certainly appears to me that they have considered the potential shortcomings of the project relative to the handicapped. They have pledged to take action to both review the current project and to consider the handicapped issue as they move forward with future construction on this project. They have also pledged that they will review the current conditions of the offensive portions of the project to see how corrective actions can be taken to improve the project so that all will have access and can enjoy the vista that have been opened to the public. I certainly consider myself an advocate for persons who do not always have adequate access to public places and will continue to monitor this project, but for now, I will take the Swamp Walk team at their word, as they noted in their recent communication that they will review their current and future construction at the site. They also indicated that they would make reasonable accommodations for the disabled. We will monitor the changes that they indicated would be made, but we should also give them some time to see if they will be true to their words.
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem Announces Youth of the Year Winner
Andy Pena, Boys & Girls Club’s 2011 Youth of the Year
SALEM, MA (May 24, 2011) - The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem announces that Andy Pena, a Salem High School junior, is its 2011 Youth of the Year. Alberto Madera and Jonathan Morel, a senior and a junior at Salem High School respectively, are this year’s runners-up.
Established in 1947, the Youth of the Year award is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier recognition program for promoting: service to Club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals, poise and public speaking ability. Candidates for this recognition may range in age from 14 to 18. Club winners then participate in state competitions. State winners each receive a $1,000 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Five regional winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives an additional scholarship of up to $50,000 and is installed by the President of the United States.
All three of Salem’s Youth of the Year candidates play for the Club’s 18-and-under traveling basketball team (which won the regional Boys & Girls Club 18-and-under championship). They have volunteered by cooking and serving meals at the Salem Mission, act as volunteers and mentors for the younger children at the Boys & Girls Club. Each candidate credits the Club for keeping him out of trouble and focused towards a bright future.
While at the Boys & Girls Club, Pena, the 2011 Youth of the Year also participates in Toastmasters International, Teen Cooking, a personal finance program coordinated by Salem Five Bank and an educational enrichment program at the Peabody Essex Museum. “This [Boys & Girls] Club has not just changed me but it changed my perspective…to do things in life to become a successful person.” For this reason, Pena considers the Boys & Girls Club his second home.
Joanne Scott, Executive Director, states, “Our Youth of the Year Program, like all Boys & Girls Club programs, encourages youth to gain the skills, confidence and poise necessary to become productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
For more information about the Boys & Girls Club’s Youth of the Year or about the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem, please call Christopher Coleman at 978-744-0915 or e-mail him at ccoleman@bgcgs.org.
North Shore Elder Services as part of the …. At Your Side Program will offer a Free seminar early next month
Please be aware that North Shore Elder Services will be providing an important free seminar for elders and family members to learn “the art of polite persistence and get understandable answers at medical appointments”. The session will be held on June 8th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at North Shore Elder Services office. At 152 Sylvan Street, Danvers. The seminar is free but reservations at 978-750-4540 X227 or at www.ayyoursude@nselders.org are required.
This free seminar is funded by a grant from Danversbank Charitable Foundation.
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND.
We certainly hope that the holiday weekend was pleasant for all of you and that you enjoyed a family event or a community celebration that might have honored the memory of the many who have sacrificed their life to preserve the freedoms we all enjoy. We attended the parade in Danvers and it was a treat to see a large contingent of veterans being honored on this important holiday The weather certainly cooperated as we went straight to summer at just the perfect time.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
ESSex HAPPENINGS MAY 27, 2011
Danvers Town Meeting
After a series of Finance Committee meetings over the last six weeks, their recommendations were made to the Danvers Town Meeting earlier this week. Due to a series of scheduled therapy sessions, I was unable to attend any of the Fin Com hearings this year so I was anxious to see the recommendations to the Town Meeting and their dispositions of the items to be considered. The Town Meeting met on Monday, May 17th and an $87.5 million operating budget for the Town was approved. The only article that created any discussion was the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust that will initially funded with a $500,000 that was set aside by the developers who created the Avalon Housing Development in Danvers. The article passed even though it carried a negative recommendation from the Fin Com. This the second year in a row that this article came before the Town Meeting body, and after failing to be passed last year, the article was passed after a standing vote, rather comfortably 76 to 35. It appears that the proponents of this initiative that hopefully will produce some additional affordable housing in Danvers re-tooled the proposal and generated additional support for the plan that has now been adopted.
Sailing Program to Begin in Salem
Sail Salem is gearing up to once again offer a community sailing program in Salem. The program was offered for the first time in 2008 and was expanded in 2009 to include adult lessons. The program will begin this year in early July and will be offered at the city owned Winter Island property. Last year the program offered lessons to 300 youngsters. This year the youth program is already booked but there are still openings in the adult program. The program that is run by volunteers is now looking for former students who would like to be trained as instructors. The volunteer program has a fleet of 19 boats and information about the program can be found at www.sailsalem.org.
Beverly Chamber of Commerce Hires new Director
The Beverly Chamber has announced the hiring of a new Executive Director to lead that community organization. John Somes, who previously served as a youth in family services at the Danvers YMCA, has been named the new Director of the local business group. Somes brings substantial experience in the not for profit sector, and the Chamber is confidant that the experience will serve the Chamber well in the future.
Local Communities Still experiencing Financial Difficulties
Local communities in this region are still finding it difficult to balance budgets in these difficult financial times. Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has presented a budget for approval, and to fill a $3.6 million shortfall the plan calls for the elimination of 70 full and part time municipal positions. The reductions will, if approved, eliminate 39 city positions and 37 positions in the school system.
The Town of Hamilton has a ballot question that calls for a temporary $2 million dollar property tax increase to cover the costs of a onetime big ticket expense to capping the Town Landfill.
In Marblehead, voters will be asked on June 14th to vote for a proposition 2 and ½ override to build a new elementary school. The Town has a landfill capping project, a recycle center and transfer center to consider creating.
It is clear that the many projects that are on the agendas of local communities and the strains on local revenue streams will be under stress, and those two issues will continue into the future. That single issue should encourage local communities to look at opportunities to consolidate programs and to look at ways to work collectively with neighboring municipalities to find ways to build coalitions that could impact a reduction of expenses.
Work on Danvers Swamp Walk Continues
Congratulations to George Saluto and his team of dedicated volunteers that have devoted many hours and energies to the creation of the observation and teaching platform that they have been creating over these last several months. All of the work has been accomplished at no cost to the Town, and the resulting 320 feet of boardwalk and a 16 by 30 foot observation platform, that looks over a pond in the middle of the swamp. This improvement will become a spectacular asset for the town into the future. The team of volunteers are not yet finished with the total improvements and will continue to extend the boardwalk in the months ahead. Grants have been obtained that helped procure much needed materials, but all of the labor has been volunteer. The work being done can be accessed from the rail-trail effort and the educational experiences that will be offered at the site will be a wonderful addition to the recreational assets that already exist in the town of Danvers. Once again congratulations to the wonderful team of volunteers that have given so much time, skill and experience to insure that this project will be completed. This truly has been a labor of love for the swamp walk team, and they should be commended.
Hospital Renovations
The leadership at Anna Jacques Hospital in Newburyport recently gathered at a ground breaking to celebrate the start of a $15 million renovation. Several improvements are planned, that will improve patient services. This is the first major project undertaken by the hospital in 40 years. The Hospital is a wonderful resource for this region, and several people on the leadership team of this initiative including our Development committee Chair. Charlie Cullen are also Commissioners at Essex Heritage.
Visit to Cornell Prosthetics
Please let me have a moment to post some personal material about my continuing road to full recovery.
As a reward for climbing the ramps at the Prep graduation and crossing the stage with son, Mark, and Grandson, Brendan to receive the legacy award, and not messing up the transit, I received a surprise the following day. I visited Cornell Prosthetics and had my artificial limb upgraded with a new foot that has an ankle connected to it. The improved leg will now allow me to walk quite a bit easier as it has some flexibility built into the foot and ankle. The foot now has some bend to it, and it will me to have much more control as I can “linger” a little longer on the artificial leg and take longer more controlled steps with my remaining good leg. This was a most pleasant surprise, and I would expect that it will certainly help with the ongoing plan to get me off my walker, onto crutches and sometime down the road onto canes, and then finally onto my own two legs. Using a very bad play on words, this is a great “step” forward for me in the recovery process.
Hockey Success
As a hockey fan, it would be nice to see the Boston Bruins poised to get to the Stanley Cup round of the playoffs. It has been a long time since they went this deep into the playoffs. One more win will get them to that level.
After a series of Finance Committee meetings over the last six weeks, their recommendations were made to the Danvers Town Meeting earlier this week. Due to a series of scheduled therapy sessions, I was unable to attend any of the Fin Com hearings this year so I was anxious to see the recommendations to the Town Meeting and their dispositions of the items to be considered. The Town Meeting met on Monday, May 17th and an $87.5 million operating budget for the Town was approved. The only article that created any discussion was the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust that will initially funded with a $500,000 that was set aside by the developers who created the Avalon Housing Development in Danvers. The article passed even though it carried a negative recommendation from the Fin Com. This the second year in a row that this article came before the Town Meeting body, and after failing to be passed last year, the article was passed after a standing vote, rather comfortably 76 to 35. It appears that the proponents of this initiative that hopefully will produce some additional affordable housing in Danvers re-tooled the proposal and generated additional support for the plan that has now been adopted.
Sailing Program to Begin in Salem
Sail Salem is gearing up to once again offer a community sailing program in Salem. The program was offered for the first time in 2008 and was expanded in 2009 to include adult lessons. The program will begin this year in early July and will be offered at the city owned Winter Island property. Last year the program offered lessons to 300 youngsters. This year the youth program is already booked but there are still openings in the adult program. The program that is run by volunteers is now looking for former students who would like to be trained as instructors. The volunteer program has a fleet of 19 boats and information about the program can be found at www.sailsalem.org.
Beverly Chamber of Commerce Hires new Director
The Beverly Chamber has announced the hiring of a new Executive Director to lead that community organization. John Somes, who previously served as a youth in family services at the Danvers YMCA, has been named the new Director of the local business group. Somes brings substantial experience in the not for profit sector, and the Chamber is confidant that the experience will serve the Chamber well in the future.
Local Communities Still experiencing Financial Difficulties
Local communities in this region are still finding it difficult to balance budgets in these difficult financial times. Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has presented a budget for approval, and to fill a $3.6 million shortfall the plan calls for the elimination of 70 full and part time municipal positions. The reductions will, if approved, eliminate 39 city positions and 37 positions in the school system.
The Town of Hamilton has a ballot question that calls for a temporary $2 million dollar property tax increase to cover the costs of a onetime big ticket expense to capping the Town Landfill.
In Marblehead, voters will be asked on June 14th to vote for a proposition 2 and ½ override to build a new elementary school. The Town has a landfill capping project, a recycle center and transfer center to consider creating.
It is clear that the many projects that are on the agendas of local communities and the strains on local revenue streams will be under stress, and those two issues will continue into the future. That single issue should encourage local communities to look at opportunities to consolidate programs and to look at ways to work collectively with neighboring municipalities to find ways to build coalitions that could impact a reduction of expenses.
Work on Danvers Swamp Walk Continues
Congratulations to George Saluto and his team of dedicated volunteers that have devoted many hours and energies to the creation of the observation and teaching platform that they have been creating over these last several months. All of the work has been accomplished at no cost to the Town, and the resulting 320 feet of boardwalk and a 16 by 30 foot observation platform, that looks over a pond in the middle of the swamp. This improvement will become a spectacular asset for the town into the future. The team of volunteers are not yet finished with the total improvements and will continue to extend the boardwalk in the months ahead. Grants have been obtained that helped procure much needed materials, but all of the labor has been volunteer. The work being done can be accessed from the rail-trail effort and the educational experiences that will be offered at the site will be a wonderful addition to the recreational assets that already exist in the town of Danvers. Once again congratulations to the wonderful team of volunteers that have given so much time, skill and experience to insure that this project will be completed. This truly has been a labor of love for the swamp walk team, and they should be commended.
Hospital Renovations
The leadership at Anna Jacques Hospital in Newburyport recently gathered at a ground breaking to celebrate the start of a $15 million renovation. Several improvements are planned, that will improve patient services. This is the first major project undertaken by the hospital in 40 years. The Hospital is a wonderful resource for this region, and several people on the leadership team of this initiative including our Development committee Chair. Charlie Cullen are also Commissioners at Essex Heritage.
Visit to Cornell Prosthetics
Please let me have a moment to post some personal material about my continuing road to full recovery.
As a reward for climbing the ramps at the Prep graduation and crossing the stage with son, Mark, and Grandson, Brendan to receive the legacy award, and not messing up the transit, I received a surprise the following day. I visited Cornell Prosthetics and had my artificial limb upgraded with a new foot that has an ankle connected to it. The improved leg will now allow me to walk quite a bit easier as it has some flexibility built into the foot and ankle. The foot now has some bend to it, and it will me to have much more control as I can “linger” a little longer on the artificial leg and take longer more controlled steps with my remaining good leg. This was a most pleasant surprise, and I would expect that it will certainly help with the ongoing plan to get me off my walker, onto crutches and sometime down the road onto canes, and then finally onto my own two legs. Using a very bad play on words, this is a great “step” forward for me in the recovery process.
Hockey Success
As a hockey fan, it would be nice to see the Boston Bruins poised to get to the Stanley Cup round of the playoffs. It has been a long time since they went this deep into the playoffs. One more win will get them to that level.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Essex HAPPENINGS MAY 23, 2011
Essex Heritage Hero Event a Great Success
The evening at the 2011 Essex Heritage Hero’s event was most certainly a wonderful success regardless of what measurement one used. All three recipients were gracious with their remarks, and we were pleased that we were able to single out, Dr. Wayne Burton, Mayor Kim Driscoll, and Danvers Town Manager Wayne Marquis for their exceptional service to this region. The crowd exceeded our expectations, the honorees were most appreciative of the honors bestowed, the Danversport Yacht Club provided their usual excellent service, the speakers including the special MC, were truly “on the mark” with their complimentary remarks, the organization of the event was what we have come to expect from the ENHC staff, and the evening structure went off without a hitch. Early this spring, Essex Heritage brought on a new Development and Communications Director, and Deb Payson, took over the control of the planning for this annual event in midstream, and produced a magnificent event that everyone connected with the event can be exceptionally proud. Congratulations Deb, on a job well done, and a most successful presentation. This event has become one of the most important programs for ENHC as the proceeds from these efforts help fund the many valuable regional projects of Essex Heritage.
I was happy that I was able to be a part of the event, and was particularly pleased with the warm reception that I received from my many friends and associates. I also want to offer a special thank you to Brian “Bear” Cranney, who did a sensational job as the MC of the event. Essex Heritage is pleased that we were able to offer a public event to honor the three most worthy 2011 Heritage Hero’s. We look forward to 2012 when we will identify additional regional hero’s to be honored at what has turned into a major annual event for ENHC and the region.
Essex Heritage Applauds Regional Efforts
Since our inception, Essex Heritage has regularly encouraged local municipalities to consider every possibility to look at opportunities to work with neighboring communities to consolidate services to reduce the steadily increasing expenses with running local governments. I am very pleased to see that the local communities of Salem, Danvers. Peabody, Marblehead, Swampscott and Lynn and possibly Beverly and Nahant are looking into trying to recreate the successful association between Salisbury and Amesbury who have consolidated health inspection services to provide increased services at lower costs. I was also pleased to learn that the Salem Police are making a pistol range available in their headquarters to other local departments. It certainly makes no sense to try to create those kinds of facilities in every community. Sharing makes perfect sense.
Along the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway
One of the most important current programs of Essex heritage is its effort to develop the byway along the Atlantic coast. The following information is relevant to that effort
Scenic Byway Plan Completed
At its recent annual meeting in Rockport, Essex Heritage and its byway partners celebrated completion of the byway's Corridor Management Plan. The comprehensive CMP recommends strategies for preserving and promoting the byway's historic, cultural, natural, and recreational resources. To download the plan's report summary, click here.
Gloucester Launches Visitor Website
Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, the City of Gloucester has launched a new visitor-oriented website highlighting the many things to see and do in that great byway community. Check it out.
New Salem History Book
The History Press recently introduced a new title, "Hidden History of Salem," by Susanne Saville. The collection of stories seeks to shed light on the forgotten moments of this coastal community. To learn more, visit History Press.
Danvers Historical Society information
Notice of Fundraising event later this summer
Back by popular demand is the Society Open Golf Tournament to be held this year Monday August 1, at Black Swan C.C. formerly Georgetown C.C. 7AM registration, 8AM shot gun start, best ball format. Your day includes 18 holes of golf, cart, practice range, Texas Bar-B-Q lunch, win a car courtesy of Hyundai Village, contests, and much more. $125.00 per person to play or sponsor a hole. Other sponsorship opportunities are available. See attached information sheet, sign up to play and pay before June 30 to receive a free sleeve of balls. Chairman Larry Raimondi is looking for a few of you to help solicit sponsorships, call the office at 978 777 1666 to register.
Ipswich Windmill
It now appears that the long awaited 400 foot tall wind turbine on Town Farm Road in Ipswich was scheduled to be tested a week or so ago. If all went as expected the largest wind turbine on the North Shore could be operational be the end of this month. When the windmill is operating, after an eight-year period of fits and starts, it is expected to produce 3% of the Town’s energy needs for the next two decades. This turbine is a joint project of the Town’s Lighting and School Departments. The project, that cost the community $4.2 million, is a large investment and the expected return is anticipated to have made the eight-year wait and the investment well worth the wait. This is a project that I suspect other communities in this region will be watching to ascertain if such an investment is warranted and should be considered. Clearly renewable energy sources, like wind power, could play a most important role in the reducing annual operating budgets of local communities.
Going Green in Salem
The previous article that spoke about the need for renewable energy projects certainly is a wonderful lead into this issue that outlines Living Green and Renewable Energy Fair that will be offered on Saturday, May 21, 2011. The event that is organized by the Salem Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the City’s Renewable Energy Task Force will be held at Old Town Hall in Salem and will run from 9:00am until 3:00 pm. There will be fifty exhibitors at the event. The event is free and there will also be an automobile exhibit. For more information contact the Salem Chamber at www.salem-chamber.org
Topsfield Library Wins Award
We are pleased to announce that at the Massachusetts Library Association meeting in Danvers last month that the Topsfield Library won first place in both the Merchandise and Community read categories. They also won the Best of Show for its Community Read Program. Congratulations to all at the Topsfield Library for this accomplishment.
The evening at the 2011 Essex Heritage Hero’s event was most certainly a wonderful success regardless of what measurement one used. All three recipients were gracious with their remarks, and we were pleased that we were able to single out, Dr. Wayne Burton, Mayor Kim Driscoll, and Danvers Town Manager Wayne Marquis for their exceptional service to this region. The crowd exceeded our expectations, the honorees were most appreciative of the honors bestowed, the Danversport Yacht Club provided their usual excellent service, the speakers including the special MC, were truly “on the mark” with their complimentary remarks, the organization of the event was what we have come to expect from the ENHC staff, and the evening structure went off without a hitch. Early this spring, Essex Heritage brought on a new Development and Communications Director, and Deb Payson, took over the control of the planning for this annual event in midstream, and produced a magnificent event that everyone connected with the event can be exceptionally proud. Congratulations Deb, on a job well done, and a most successful presentation. This event has become one of the most important programs for ENHC as the proceeds from these efforts help fund the many valuable regional projects of Essex Heritage.
I was happy that I was able to be a part of the event, and was particularly pleased with the warm reception that I received from my many friends and associates. I also want to offer a special thank you to Brian “Bear” Cranney, who did a sensational job as the MC of the event. Essex Heritage is pleased that we were able to offer a public event to honor the three most worthy 2011 Heritage Hero’s. We look forward to 2012 when we will identify additional regional hero’s to be honored at what has turned into a major annual event for ENHC and the region.
Essex Heritage Applauds Regional Efforts
Since our inception, Essex Heritage has regularly encouraged local municipalities to consider every possibility to look at opportunities to work with neighboring communities to consolidate services to reduce the steadily increasing expenses with running local governments. I am very pleased to see that the local communities of Salem, Danvers. Peabody, Marblehead, Swampscott and Lynn and possibly Beverly and Nahant are looking into trying to recreate the successful association between Salisbury and Amesbury who have consolidated health inspection services to provide increased services at lower costs. I was also pleased to learn that the Salem Police are making a pistol range available in their headquarters to other local departments. It certainly makes no sense to try to create those kinds of facilities in every community. Sharing makes perfect sense.
Along the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway
One of the most important current programs of Essex heritage is its effort to develop the byway along the Atlantic coast. The following information is relevant to that effort
Scenic Byway Plan Completed
At its recent annual meeting in Rockport, Essex Heritage and its byway partners celebrated completion of the byway's Corridor Management Plan. The comprehensive CMP recommends strategies for preserving and promoting the byway's historic, cultural, natural, and recreational resources. To download the plan's report summary, click here.
Gloucester Launches Visitor Website
Thanks to the hard work of volunteers, the City of Gloucester has launched a new visitor-oriented website highlighting the many things to see and do in that great byway community. Check it out.
New Salem History Book
The History Press recently introduced a new title, "Hidden History of Salem," by Susanne Saville. The collection of stories seeks to shed light on the forgotten moments of this coastal community. To learn more, visit History Press.
Danvers Historical Society information
Notice of Fundraising event later this summer
Back by popular demand is the Society Open Golf Tournament to be held this year Monday August 1, at Black Swan C.C. formerly Georgetown C.C. 7AM registration, 8AM shot gun start, best ball format. Your day includes 18 holes of golf, cart, practice range, Texas Bar-B-Q lunch, win a car courtesy of Hyundai Village, contests, and much more. $125.00 per person to play or sponsor a hole. Other sponsorship opportunities are available. See attached information sheet, sign up to play and pay before June 30 to receive a free sleeve of balls. Chairman Larry Raimondi is looking for a few of you to help solicit sponsorships, call the office at 978 777 1666 to register.
Ipswich Windmill
It now appears that the long awaited 400 foot tall wind turbine on Town Farm Road in Ipswich was scheduled to be tested a week or so ago. If all went as expected the largest wind turbine on the North Shore could be operational be the end of this month. When the windmill is operating, after an eight-year period of fits and starts, it is expected to produce 3% of the Town’s energy needs for the next two decades. This turbine is a joint project of the Town’s Lighting and School Departments. The project, that cost the community $4.2 million, is a large investment and the expected return is anticipated to have made the eight-year wait and the investment well worth the wait. This is a project that I suspect other communities in this region will be watching to ascertain if such an investment is warranted and should be considered. Clearly renewable energy sources, like wind power, could play a most important role in the reducing annual operating budgets of local communities.
Going Green in Salem
The previous article that spoke about the need for renewable energy projects certainly is a wonderful lead into this issue that outlines Living Green and Renewable Energy Fair that will be offered on Saturday, May 21, 2011. The event that is organized by the Salem Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the City’s Renewable Energy Task Force will be held at Old Town Hall in Salem and will run from 9:00am until 3:00 pm. There will be fifty exhibitors at the event. The event is free and there will also be an automobile exhibit. For more information contact the Salem Chamber at www.salem-chamber.org
Topsfield Library Wins Award
We are pleased to announce that at the Massachusetts Library Association meeting in Danvers last month that the Topsfield Library won first place in both the Merchandise and Community read categories. They also won the Best of Show for its Community Read Program. Congratulations to all at the Topsfield Library for this accomplishment.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS MAY 19, 2011
Salem Harbor Station Announces Closing
The recent news that Dominion, the owners Salem Harbor Power Station will begin to close down that sixty-year-old facility this year, and will complete that task by the end of 2014 will certainly create some urgency for the City of Salem administration and planners. The closure, that is good news to a local group from a neighboring community, is certainly a concern for the host community. The 65-acre site on Salem’s outer Harbor is the largest taxpayer in the City of Salem. The 60 year-old power station currently provides $4.75 million in taxes annually and the City will have to take definitive actions to make up for that substantial loss of revenue that will have to be made up when the site is closed.
As a youth growing up in Salem, before the current power station was built, the site was the home of the premier baseball park in the city and was a recreational icon in the region. With proper planning it seems realistic to believe that the location can once again be a focal point for the city after a well thought out plan and redevelopment effort. There will certainly be a need to take a realistic approach to planning for the future of this site when it is closed and the site cleared of the buildings and huge smoke stacks currently existing on the site. The City of Salem must not get carried away with a proposal that has little chance of being funded, completed and then occupied. This will be one of the most important efforts ever undertaken by the City and the partners that it brings to the table to help outline a final plan and to seek proposals that can be brought to a successful conclusion. The site can be most desirable, with its access to the water, and the plans that could be developed may help determine the long-term future of the city. It does appear that the city is going about this process in a measured manner, and if the process is to be successful, they will examine all of the options and then consider a long range plan that will meet the long-term needs of the community, and at the same time help develop a stream of revenue to offset the loss from the current soon to be abandoned use. I suspect that the planning team will adopt a final scenario that is realistic; economically feasible that has a reasonable chance to provide an economic impetus to the city in the future. At the present moment the city is being managed by an energetic and committed chief executive, and has many wonderful assets that makes the City a desirable location for potential businesses and residents to consider. Having a world class museum like the Peabody-Essex, the National Park Service presence, the recently commissioned State University, access to Boston by both rail and water ferry, and the soon to be opened restored court complex are all critical components of a successful community. There are also organizations like the Salem Partnership and our own Essex Heritage, and a active chamber of Commerce, that will all certainly offer support when needed.
New District Director named by Tierney
Congressman John Tierney recently announced that he has appointed a new District Director to manage his Peabody and Lynn offices. The new director is “Chip” Payson who until recently was the Vice President for External affairs for Northeast Health System in Beverly. Chip has a wealth of political and community experience as he previously served in the Clinton White House, and also served in a number of administrative positions for leadership on Beacon Hill in Boston and in Washington. During the time that Chip represented Northeast Health System, he served as a trustee of the Essex National Heritage Commission, and because of that role, he knows of the work of Essex Heritage and understands our role in this region. We are pleased that Chip has joined the Congressman’s staff, and we look forward to working with him again in his new role. We are confidant that he will continue the fine constituent service work of his predecessor, Gary Barrett, who has left for another position. During the many years we have worked with Mr. Barrett, he has always been most committed to the work of the Congressional office and we certainly wish Gary well in the future. We also wish good luck to long time congressional aide, George Mc Cabe, who has also left Tierney’s office.
Locations of Essex Heritage Photo Safari’s Announced
In a recent posting to Essex Happenings, I provided some preliminary information about the Essex Heritage Photo Safari’s program presented in conjunction with Hunt’s Photo and Video in Melrose. The sessions are designed to offer the latest high quality equipment and guidance from Canon, Nikon, Olympus and Tamron. The dates and locations of the four sessions have now been finalized and they are as follows:
• June 4, 2011 featuring Olympus @ Cranes Beach and Castle Hill, Ipswich
• June 18, featuring Tamron @ Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, Saugus
• July 9, 2011 featuring Nikon @ Brooksby Farm, Peabody
• July 30, 2011 featuring Cannon @ Phillips House and Gardens, Salem
Salem Maritime Festival
In what has become a tradition over these last several years, Essex Heritage in conjunction with the National Park Service has presented the Salem Maritime Festival at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site at Derby Wharf in Salem. This year’s community sponsored celebration of four centuries of Salem’s maritime history will be offered on August 6, 2011 from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Come and enjoy family fun with nautical activities and music. For details on the day’s program visit www.nps.gov/sama.
FRIENDSHIP SAILS
I know that we have not yet experienced any spring weather to date, and I am about to tell you about an end of summer event, but it is never too early to get an opportunity like this one on your calendar. Once again on Labor Day Weekend on September 3rd and 4th, FRIENDSHIP will once again raise her sails and leave her berth in Salem for a trip to Gloucester. On those dates you can join in those events as a passenger. To learn more about the event and the costs associated with the trip visit www.essexheritage.org/friendship.
Essex Heritage Trails and Sails
Let me offer one more set of dates for your calendar. The Essex Heritage signature event, Trails and Sails will be offered on the last two weekends in September 2011. So save September 16-18 and 23-25. The two weekends will be filled with free events, and the only difficulty that you will find for this event, is to try to fit in every thing you want to see.
House of Seven Gables Spring Lecture Series
Each year the House of Seven Gables offers a series of lectures that focus on this historic venue and the activities at that historic location. This year is no different and the remaining lectures in 2011 run from May 18th through the end of the year. Ticket information and purchases can be obtained by calling 978 744 0991.
The recent news that Dominion, the owners Salem Harbor Power Station will begin to close down that sixty-year-old facility this year, and will complete that task by the end of 2014 will certainly create some urgency for the City of Salem administration and planners. The closure, that is good news to a local group from a neighboring community, is certainly a concern for the host community. The 65-acre site on Salem’s outer Harbor is the largest taxpayer in the City of Salem. The 60 year-old power station currently provides $4.75 million in taxes annually and the City will have to take definitive actions to make up for that substantial loss of revenue that will have to be made up when the site is closed.
As a youth growing up in Salem, before the current power station was built, the site was the home of the premier baseball park in the city and was a recreational icon in the region. With proper planning it seems realistic to believe that the location can once again be a focal point for the city after a well thought out plan and redevelopment effort. There will certainly be a need to take a realistic approach to planning for the future of this site when it is closed and the site cleared of the buildings and huge smoke stacks currently existing on the site. The City of Salem must not get carried away with a proposal that has little chance of being funded, completed and then occupied. This will be one of the most important efforts ever undertaken by the City and the partners that it brings to the table to help outline a final plan and to seek proposals that can be brought to a successful conclusion. The site can be most desirable, with its access to the water, and the plans that could be developed may help determine the long-term future of the city. It does appear that the city is going about this process in a measured manner, and if the process is to be successful, they will examine all of the options and then consider a long range plan that will meet the long-term needs of the community, and at the same time help develop a stream of revenue to offset the loss from the current soon to be abandoned use. I suspect that the planning team will adopt a final scenario that is realistic; economically feasible that has a reasonable chance to provide an economic impetus to the city in the future. At the present moment the city is being managed by an energetic and committed chief executive, and has many wonderful assets that makes the City a desirable location for potential businesses and residents to consider. Having a world class museum like the Peabody-Essex, the National Park Service presence, the recently commissioned State University, access to Boston by both rail and water ferry, and the soon to be opened restored court complex are all critical components of a successful community. There are also organizations like the Salem Partnership and our own Essex Heritage, and a active chamber of Commerce, that will all certainly offer support when needed.
New District Director named by Tierney
Congressman John Tierney recently announced that he has appointed a new District Director to manage his Peabody and Lynn offices. The new director is “Chip” Payson who until recently was the Vice President for External affairs for Northeast Health System in Beverly. Chip has a wealth of political and community experience as he previously served in the Clinton White House, and also served in a number of administrative positions for leadership on Beacon Hill in Boston and in Washington. During the time that Chip represented Northeast Health System, he served as a trustee of the Essex National Heritage Commission, and because of that role, he knows of the work of Essex Heritage and understands our role in this region. We are pleased that Chip has joined the Congressman’s staff, and we look forward to working with him again in his new role. We are confidant that he will continue the fine constituent service work of his predecessor, Gary Barrett, who has left for another position. During the many years we have worked with Mr. Barrett, he has always been most committed to the work of the Congressional office and we certainly wish Gary well in the future. We also wish good luck to long time congressional aide, George Mc Cabe, who has also left Tierney’s office.
Locations of Essex Heritage Photo Safari’s Announced
In a recent posting to Essex Happenings, I provided some preliminary information about the Essex Heritage Photo Safari’s program presented in conjunction with Hunt’s Photo and Video in Melrose. The sessions are designed to offer the latest high quality equipment and guidance from Canon, Nikon, Olympus and Tamron. The dates and locations of the four sessions have now been finalized and they are as follows:
• June 4, 2011 featuring Olympus @ Cranes Beach and Castle Hill, Ipswich
• June 18, featuring Tamron @ Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site, Saugus
• July 9, 2011 featuring Nikon @ Brooksby Farm, Peabody
• July 30, 2011 featuring Cannon @ Phillips House and Gardens, Salem
Salem Maritime Festival
In what has become a tradition over these last several years, Essex Heritage in conjunction with the National Park Service has presented the Salem Maritime Festival at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site at Derby Wharf in Salem. This year’s community sponsored celebration of four centuries of Salem’s maritime history will be offered on August 6, 2011 from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Come and enjoy family fun with nautical activities and music. For details on the day’s program visit www.nps.gov/sama.
FRIENDSHIP SAILS
I know that we have not yet experienced any spring weather to date, and I am about to tell you about an end of summer event, but it is never too early to get an opportunity like this one on your calendar. Once again on Labor Day Weekend on September 3rd and 4th, FRIENDSHIP will once again raise her sails and leave her berth in Salem for a trip to Gloucester. On those dates you can join in those events as a passenger. To learn more about the event and the costs associated with the trip visit www.essexheritage.org/friendship.
Essex Heritage Trails and Sails
Let me offer one more set of dates for your calendar. The Essex Heritage signature event, Trails and Sails will be offered on the last two weekends in September 2011. So save September 16-18 and 23-25. The two weekends will be filled with free events, and the only difficulty that you will find for this event, is to try to fit in every thing you want to see.
House of Seven Gables Spring Lecture Series
Each year the House of Seven Gables offers a series of lectures that focus on this historic venue and the activities at that historic location. This year is no different and the remaining lectures in 2011 run from May 18th through the end of the year. Ticket information and purchases can be obtained by calling 978 744 0991.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS MAY 14, 2011
EDITORS NOTE. A couple on minutes ago, I posted to the Essex Happenings BLOG and by mistake logged a duplicate posting. The following material is the proper current posting. Sorry for the confussion Tom Leonard
Essex Heritage Hero Dinner Tickets Available Now
The Annual Heritage Hero Dinner to Honor President of North Shore Community College Burton, Salem Mayor Driscoll and Danvers Town Manager Marquis is now just 10 days away, and tickets for the event are now on sale. To purchase a ticket for this event at the Danversport Yacht Club on May 19, 2011 contact Essex Heritage at www.essexheritage.org. Tickets are priced at only $100 and all of the proceeds from the awards dinner will be used by Essex Heritage to advance their many current regional projects that benefit the entire region.
Essex Heritage Photo News
In the most recent newsletter from Essex Heritage there were two items regarding the work the Commission does with and for local amateur photographers
Essex Heritage Photo Contest Announced
Essex Heritage is pleased to announce the 2011 Essex Heritage Photo Contest guidelines! All photographers are welcome to submit images that capture the essence of the Essex National Heritage Area or speak to Essex Heritage's role in preserving the historic, cultural and natural treasures of Essex County. Read the complete rules & regulations here, and then submit your entry and you could win! Get more information on how you can enter a photo by contacting www.essexheritage.org
Essex Heritage Photo Safaris Scheduled again this summer
These professionally managed regional events provide great opportunities to capture award winning shot - gorgeous locations and state of the art digital equipment! For more information on how to sign up for a session or to get a list of locations that will be available in 2011, contact www, essexheritage.org
DANVERS RAIL TRAIL WEB SITE
The Danvers Rail Trail Advisory Committee recently announced that web site www.danversrailtrail.org has been created to provide information to all interested Danvers residents about the ongoing development of the trail as well as the current rules and uses that have been formulated. The new site that will also include a trail map, and will present a section on news of upcoming events was designed. This was created by and will be maintained at no cost to the Town of Danvers by Mead Web Design and Computing. The 3.4 mile Danvers trail will run from the Wenham town line to Peabody city line. The trail that is part of the Border to Boston Rail Trail that has been driven by the continuing work and efforts of Essex Heritage is currently having crushed stone surface being laid by the Iron Horse Preservation Society. This company previously removed all of the rails and ties from the abandoned rail bed. The town’s Senior Planner Kate Day recently announced that the current work would be completed by early summer. Essex Heritage also provided a cash grant to the Town of Danvers to assist them as they prepared informational and directional signage for the recreational trail. Town Archivist Dick Trask also advised me recently that the signs would also serve to provide information on the heritage of the Town
SWAMPSCOTT POLICE STATION
A $3.35 million proposition two and one half over ride to be used to complete the proposed $6.45 million project that will build a new police station in that seaside community has been passed at Town Meeting. This project has been a long time in the planning stage, and those who have long rallied in support of the project are pleased at the success of the effort to raise the needed funds for the project that appears to fill a great need in Swampscott.
.
HAVERHILL HOSPITAL SOLD
In a transaction that may have a potential impact on the residents of Haverhill, the former Hale Hospital has been sold to Stewart Health Care Systems. The new hospital owner has promised to continue the medical services to the Haverhill community and the surrounding area.
New Chairman of the Board of The Custom House Maritime Museum in Newburyport Elected
Mr., Keith Manville of Reading has been elected the new Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Maritime Museum in Newburyport. The new Chairman played an important role in developing the new adventure trail for the museum that opened last year. Manvill is a former history teacher and is the former Superintendent of the Saugus school system and has brought an educational focus to this valuable regional maritime resource. The museum is managed by the Newburyport Maritime Society Inc that was founded in 1968 to protect and preserve the rich maritime history of Newburyport. The museum is one of the finest facilities in this region to visit and learn more about the importance that maritime history played in the growth of this area. For more information or to learn the hours of operation visit wwwthe.chmm.org or call 978-462-8681. In addition to the museum being a wonderful visitor destination to view the material on display, but the site also serves as a Visitor Center for the region where information on the activities of Essex Heritage can be obtained.
Working on a Memoir to Chronicle my Recent Medical Ordeal
Sometime during the almost four months that I was in local hospitals fighting through a near death experience and the loss of my left leg, I felt it might be wise to write of the what turned out to be a medical crisis. I felt that after my recuperation and a period where I learned to walk again with a new artificial leg that I wanted to relate some of the details of that part of my life. Since my release from the hospital in mid March, I have been working on that memoir. In the last couple of weeks, I have aligned myself with a noted local author, journalist and historian, who has agreed to help me craft that story. During my life, I have spent many happy times working as a volunteer and helping many not for profit local organizations as they work to help others in this region. During my life, I have learned valuable lessons about volunteerism from my parents, family, from the staff and Brothers at St. John’s Prep, and many associates and contemporaries. I hope to report in some detail on my medical ordeal and the life that led up to that time, and the time that followed. I am pleased and proud to now be working with Gary Larrabee as my editor on this project. Gary is a former local newspaper journalist, and in the last several years, Mr. Larrabee has written a number of books that help chronicle the rich history and heritage of this region. He is the author of several histories of local organizations and corporations in this region. He has written histories for Salem Five Bank, Beverly Hospital, a centennial history of St. John’s Preparatory School in Danvers, a golden anniversary history of Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody and a treatise on golf on the North Shore called The Green and Gold Coast of Massachusetts.
At this time, I do not have a date when the memoir will be finished or released, but we are both working hard to get it to the publication stage.
North Shore Chamber Honor Scholar Dinner
One night last week, we attended the Annual NSCC Honor Scholar dinner in Danvers where our Grandson Brendan Leonard was named as one of the top 5% of his class at St. John’s Prep. The Prep was one-of 30 North Shore schools where students were honored. The dinner was held before its usual full house of parents and member of the business community and the Keynote speaker was Salem’s Mayor Kim Driscoll, who urged the students to remember when they return to their hometowns after college to offer their services as leaders in their community, particularly when it comes to public education. She reminded them that they have an obligation to give back to this region after all of the support they all received from school faculty, teachers and their parents.
Essex Heritage Hero Dinner Tickets Available Now
The Annual Heritage Hero Dinner to Honor President of North Shore Community College Burton, Salem Mayor Driscoll and Danvers Town Manager Marquis is now just 10 days away, and tickets for the event are now on sale. To purchase a ticket for this event at the Danversport Yacht Club on May 19, 2011 contact Essex Heritage at www.essexheritage.org. Tickets are priced at only $100 and all of the proceeds from the awards dinner will be used by Essex Heritage to advance their many current regional projects that benefit the entire region.
Essex Heritage Photo News
In the most recent newsletter from Essex Heritage there were two items regarding the work the Commission does with and for local amateur photographers
Essex Heritage Photo Contest Announced
Essex Heritage is pleased to announce the 2011 Essex Heritage Photo Contest guidelines! All photographers are welcome to submit images that capture the essence of the Essex National Heritage Area or speak to Essex Heritage's role in preserving the historic, cultural and natural treasures of Essex County. Read the complete rules & regulations here, and then submit your entry and you could win! Get more information on how you can enter a photo by contacting www.essexheritage.org
Essex Heritage Photo Safaris Scheduled again this summer
These professionally managed regional events provide great opportunities to capture award winning shot - gorgeous locations and state of the art digital equipment! For more information on how to sign up for a session or to get a list of locations that will be available in 2011, contact www, essexheritage.org
DANVERS RAIL TRAIL WEB SITE
The Danvers Rail Trail Advisory Committee recently announced that web site www.danversrailtrail.org has been created to provide information to all interested Danvers residents about the ongoing development of the trail as well as the current rules and uses that have been formulated. The new site that will also include a trail map, and will present a section on news of upcoming events was designed. This was created by and will be maintained at no cost to the Town of Danvers by Mead Web Design and Computing. The 3.4 mile Danvers trail will run from the Wenham town line to Peabody city line. The trail that is part of the Border to Boston Rail Trail that has been driven by the continuing work and efforts of Essex Heritage is currently having crushed stone surface being laid by the Iron Horse Preservation Society. This company previously removed all of the rails and ties from the abandoned rail bed. The town’s Senior Planner Kate Day recently announced that the current work would be completed by early summer. Essex Heritage also provided a cash grant to the Town of Danvers to assist them as they prepared informational and directional signage for the recreational trail. Town Archivist Dick Trask also advised me recently that the signs would also serve to provide information on the heritage of the Town
SWAMPSCOTT POLICE STATION
A $3.35 million proposition two and one half over ride to be used to complete the proposed $6.45 million project that will build a new police station in that seaside community has been passed at Town Meeting. This project has been a long time in the planning stage, and those who have long rallied in support of the project are pleased at the success of the effort to raise the needed funds for the project that appears to fill a great need in Swampscott.
.
HAVERHILL HOSPITAL SOLD
In a transaction that may have a potential impact on the residents of Haverhill, the former Hale Hospital has been sold to Stewart Health Care Systems. The new hospital owner has promised to continue the medical services to the Haverhill community and the surrounding area.
New Chairman of the Board of The Custom House Maritime Museum in Newburyport Elected
Mr., Keith Manville of Reading has been elected the new Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Maritime Museum in Newburyport. The new Chairman played an important role in developing the new adventure trail for the museum that opened last year. Manvill is a former history teacher and is the former Superintendent of the Saugus school system and has brought an educational focus to this valuable regional maritime resource. The museum is managed by the Newburyport Maritime Society Inc that was founded in 1968 to protect and preserve the rich maritime history of Newburyport. The museum is one of the finest facilities in this region to visit and learn more about the importance that maritime history played in the growth of this area. For more information or to learn the hours of operation visit wwwthe.chmm.org or call 978-462-8681. In addition to the museum being a wonderful visitor destination to view the material on display, but the site also serves as a Visitor Center for the region where information on the activities of Essex Heritage can be obtained.
Working on a Memoir to Chronicle my Recent Medical Ordeal
Sometime during the almost four months that I was in local hospitals fighting through a near death experience and the loss of my left leg, I felt it might be wise to write of the what turned out to be a medical crisis. I felt that after my recuperation and a period where I learned to walk again with a new artificial leg that I wanted to relate some of the details of that part of my life. Since my release from the hospital in mid March, I have been working on that memoir. In the last couple of weeks, I have aligned myself with a noted local author, journalist and historian, who has agreed to help me craft that story. During my life, I have spent many happy times working as a volunteer and helping many not for profit local organizations as they work to help others in this region. During my life, I have learned valuable lessons about volunteerism from my parents, family, from the staff and Brothers at St. John’s Prep, and many associates and contemporaries. I hope to report in some detail on my medical ordeal and the life that led up to that time, and the time that followed. I am pleased and proud to now be working with Gary Larrabee as my editor on this project. Gary is a former local newspaper journalist, and in the last several years, Mr. Larrabee has written a number of books that help chronicle the rich history and heritage of this region. He is the author of several histories of local organizations and corporations in this region. He has written histories for Salem Five Bank, Beverly Hospital, a centennial history of St. John’s Preparatory School in Danvers, a golden anniversary history of Bishop Fenwick High School in Peabody and a treatise on golf on the North Shore called The Green and Gold Coast of Massachusetts.
At this time, I do not have a date when the memoir will be finished or released, but we are both working hard to get it to the publication stage.
North Shore Chamber Honor Scholar Dinner
One night last week, we attended the Annual NSCC Honor Scholar dinner in Danvers where our Grandson Brendan Leonard was named as one of the top 5% of his class at St. John’s Prep. The Prep was one-of 30 North Shore schools where students were honored. The dinner was held before its usual full house of parents and member of the business community and the Keynote speaker was Salem’s Mayor Kim Driscoll, who urged the students to remember when they return to their hometowns after college to offer their services as leaders in their community, particularly when it comes to public education. She reminded them that they have an obligation to give back to this region after all of the support they all received from school faculty, teachers and their parents.
Essex Heritage Trails & Sails Update
It is never too early to begin to plan for the Essex Heritage Premier Event.
Get ready to explore! In honor of the 10th Anniversary of Trails & Sails, Essex Heritage is giving visitors a Trails & Sails "Passport" encouraging everyone to visit 10+ sites over two weekends. Visitors with a passport validated at 10 Trails & Sails events become eligible to win a suitcase, backpack or fanny-pack courtesy of REI, full of heritage goodies!
Want to help pack our bags and reinforce your brand?
Contribute a fun item to any one of the bags of prizes - like free passes, a membership, a map, a book, a logo'd hat or other promotional gift. All contributors get a special icon in the on-line and printed event guide.
Have you planned and submitted your Trails & Sail event? Need some help? There is still time to become a Trails & Sails event host. Call (978) 740-0444 or email and we will walk you through the process!
Trails & Sails is generously sponsored by:
TD BANK EASTERN BANK REI
Northern Essex Community College Graduation
The Northern Essex Community College has announced the commencement speaker at graduation on May 21, 2011 will be Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Sheriff is an important figure in the region with his excellent reputation as he works to rehabilitate inmates at the two facilities he manages in the region. I have heard Sheriff Cousins speak on numerous occasions and I am certain that his message to the graduates will be meaningful.
North Shore Elder Services Recognized Nationally
After an absence of several months ,while I was hospitalized, I was pleased to be in attendance at the monthly board meeting of the North Shore Elder Services organization this week. At the meeting, Executive Director, Paul Lanzikos provided information that they had received a communication this week from their national association. The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), that two of North Shore Elder Services’ program initiatives will each receive a 2011 n4a Aging Achievement Award at the Annual Conference this July in Washington.
The Old & Bold Coalition has been selected to receive an award in the Ethnic/Cultural Diversity category and the At Your Side Medical Advocacy Program was selected in the volunteerism/civic engagement category.
Assistant Secretary Kathy Greenlee of the U.S. Administration on Aging in the Department of Health and Human Services will be presenting the awards.
Director Lanzikos also reported that two of the valued employees of the organization Lisa Sculley and Angel Dyer were participants in an inspirational graduation ceremony. The graduation marked their successful completion, along with 75 other managers from nonprofit organizations in the Greater Boston area, of a year-long program at Institute for Nonprofit Management and Leadership at the Boston University School of Management. Congratulations to both of the graduates for their achievements
The mission of the Institute for Nonprofit Management & Leadership (INML) is to educate and connect the next generation of nonprofit leaders. The Institute is designed to meet the needs of new and emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Lisa and Angel attended weekly academic sessions, participated in an ongoing peer study group, met with mentors, and completed many assignments covering the full gamut of knowledge areas that successful managers in the nonprofit sector must master.
Farmers Market opened in Newburyport last Sunday
It certainly is a sure sign that spring has arrived in Essex County when announcements of the opening of Community Farmers Markets begin to appear. In addition to the market that opened last week in Newburyport, look for openings soon in other communities like Salem, and Peabody that will offer similar opportunities. Shopping at these outdoor markets are generally great fun, and there are usually great bargains to be found as well. In addition, by visiting these locations, you offer the farming community, of this region, much needed support to keep these farms open and operating. Providing your financial support will go a long way towards preserving this much needed open space for the future of this region.
Bring Trash In. Take it Out with you
With continuing budget restrictions, causing more and more concerns to local communities, there appears to be a new trend showing up in more places. The latest location where “if you bring trash in, take it out with you” is Lynch Park in Beverly. I have seen for several months a sign calling for the same action on the soccer fields in Danvers behind the Senior Center. This action looks like a trend that nay spread and will save the communities, who adopt the plan, some much needed cash. Let’s hope that the people who are being targeted do their part and take what they bring into a park, out with them. If they do not we could have a bigger mess to clean up in the future, but this certainly seems to be a worthwhile effort,
Aggressive plan to end Downtown Peabody Flooding
It certainly was good news to hear that the City of Peabody is about to begin the long awaited and much needed work to alleviate the flooding that has occurred with great regularity in that community’s downtown. The city has hired an Engineering firm who will complete the planning and permitting applications for phase one of this work in the downtown section of the City. The work that will be done includes the installation of almost 2000 linear feet of underground culverts to convey storm water in the future to the North River It is expected that about one third of the work will be completed by late summer. There are several additional projects underway that will help to solve this issue that has plagued the City for decades. The funding for this project has come from a series of grants.
Gloucester Fishing Commission Named
Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has taken an important step to protect one of her communities most important industries. She has appointed nine people with fishing interests in the communities to a new Fisheries Commission. The new Commission has been charged with promoting and protecting the fishing industry in this working port that is so critical to the economy of Gloucester. The Commission members include many long time fishing industry advocates as well as representatives of the City.
St. Richard’s of Danvers Scholarship Golf Event
On Monday, June 6, 2011, the annual Monsignor Cusack-John Costello Golf Tournament wll be held at the Far Corners Golf Course in Boxford. The event begins at 8:00 am and is followed by a buffet lunch at the church hall on Forest Street in Danvers, The cost to participate in this event is only $80.00 per person and you wil be hard pressed to find a tournament anywhere that offers as much for such a modest fee. All of the proceeds go to a scholarship fund awarded each year to a prospective college student from the Danvers parish. To sign up for this event , contact Shaneen at 978- 804-6353. ACT NOW, as registrations close on 5/23/2011.
It is never too early to begin to plan for the Essex Heritage Premier Event.
Get ready to explore! In honor of the 10th Anniversary of Trails & Sails, Essex Heritage is giving visitors a Trails & Sails "Passport" encouraging everyone to visit 10+ sites over two weekends. Visitors with a passport validated at 10 Trails & Sails events become eligible to win a suitcase, backpack or fanny-pack courtesy of REI, full of heritage goodies!
Want to help pack our bags and reinforce your brand?
Contribute a fun item to any one of the bags of prizes - like free passes, a membership, a map, a book, a logo'd hat or other promotional gift. All contributors get a special icon in the on-line and printed event guide.
Have you planned and submitted your Trails & Sail event? Need some help? There is still time to become a Trails & Sails event host. Call (978) 740-0444 or email and we will walk you through the process!
Trails & Sails is generously sponsored by:
TD BANK EASTERN BANK REI
Northern Essex Community College Graduation
The Northern Essex Community College has announced the commencement speaker at graduation on May 21, 2011 will be Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Sheriff is an important figure in the region with his excellent reputation as he works to rehabilitate inmates at the two facilities he manages in the region. I have heard Sheriff Cousins speak on numerous occasions and I am certain that his message to the graduates will be meaningful.
North Shore Elder Services Recognized Nationally
After an absence of several months ,while I was hospitalized, I was pleased to be in attendance at the monthly board meeting of the North Shore Elder Services organization this week. At the meeting, Executive Director, Paul Lanzikos provided information that they had received a communication this week from their national association. The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), that two of North Shore Elder Services’ program initiatives will each receive a 2011 n4a Aging Achievement Award at the Annual Conference this July in Washington.
The Old & Bold Coalition has been selected to receive an award in the Ethnic/Cultural Diversity category and the At Your Side Medical Advocacy Program was selected in the volunteerism/civic engagement category.
Assistant Secretary Kathy Greenlee of the U.S. Administration on Aging in the Department of Health and Human Services will be presenting the awards.
Director Lanzikos also reported that two of the valued employees of the organization Lisa Sculley and Angel Dyer were participants in an inspirational graduation ceremony. The graduation marked their successful completion, along with 75 other managers from nonprofit organizations in the Greater Boston area, of a year-long program at Institute for Nonprofit Management and Leadership at the Boston University School of Management. Congratulations to both of the graduates for their achievements
The mission of the Institute for Nonprofit Management & Leadership (INML) is to educate and connect the next generation of nonprofit leaders. The Institute is designed to meet the needs of new and emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Lisa and Angel attended weekly academic sessions, participated in an ongoing peer study group, met with mentors, and completed many assignments covering the full gamut of knowledge areas that successful managers in the nonprofit sector must master.
Farmers Market opened in Newburyport last Sunday
It certainly is a sure sign that spring has arrived in Essex County when announcements of the opening of Community Farmers Markets begin to appear. In addition to the market that opened last week in Newburyport, look for openings soon in other communities like Salem, and Peabody that will offer similar opportunities. Shopping at these outdoor markets are generally great fun, and there are usually great bargains to be found as well. In addition, by visiting these locations, you offer the farming community, of this region, much needed support to keep these farms open and operating. Providing your financial support will go a long way towards preserving this much needed open space for the future of this region.
Bring Trash In. Take it Out with you
With continuing budget restrictions, causing more and more concerns to local communities, there appears to be a new trend showing up in more places. The latest location where “if you bring trash in, take it out with you” is Lynch Park in Beverly. I have seen for several months a sign calling for the same action on the soccer fields in Danvers behind the Senior Center. This action looks like a trend that nay spread and will save the communities, who adopt the plan, some much needed cash. Let’s hope that the people who are being targeted do their part and take what they bring into a park, out with them. If they do not we could have a bigger mess to clean up in the future, but this certainly seems to be a worthwhile effort,
Aggressive plan to end Downtown Peabody Flooding
It certainly was good news to hear that the City of Peabody is about to begin the long awaited and much needed work to alleviate the flooding that has occurred with great regularity in that community’s downtown. The city has hired an Engineering firm who will complete the planning and permitting applications for phase one of this work in the downtown section of the City. The work that will be done includes the installation of almost 2000 linear feet of underground culverts to convey storm water in the future to the North River It is expected that about one third of the work will be completed by late summer. There are several additional projects underway that will help to solve this issue that has plagued the City for decades. The funding for this project has come from a series of grants.
Gloucester Fishing Commission Named
Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has taken an important step to protect one of her communities most important industries. She has appointed nine people with fishing interests in the communities to a new Fisheries Commission. The new Commission has been charged with promoting and protecting the fishing industry in this working port that is so critical to the economy of Gloucester. The Commission members include many long time fishing industry advocates as well as representatives of the City.
St. Richard’s of Danvers Scholarship Golf Event
On Monday, June 6, 2011, the annual Monsignor Cusack-John Costello Golf Tournament wll be held at the Far Corners Golf Course in Boxford. The event begins at 8:00 am and is followed by a buffet lunch at the church hall on Forest Street in Danvers, The cost to participate in this event is only $80.00 per person and you wil be hard pressed to find a tournament anywhere that offers as much for such a modest fee. All of the proceeds go to a scholarship fund awarded each year to a prospective college student from the Danvers parish. To sign up for this event , contact Shaneen at 978- 804-6353. ACT NOW, as registrations close on 5/23/2011.
Monday, May 9, 2011
essex HAPPENINGS MAY 9, 2011
Essex Heritage Trails & Sails Update
It is never too early to begin to plan for the Essex Heritage Premier Event.
Get ready to explore! In honor of the 10th Anniversary of Trails & Sails, Essex Heritage is giving visitors a Trails & Sails "Passport" encouraging everyone to visit 10+ sites over two weekends. Visitors with a passport validated at 10 Trails & Sails events become eligible to win a suitcase, backpack or fanny-pack courtesy of REI, full of heritage goodies!
Want to help pack our bags and reinforce your brand?
Contribute a fun item to any one of the bags of prizes - like free passes, a membership, a map, a book, a logo'd hat or other promotional gift. All contributors get a special icon in the on-line and printed event guide.
Have you planned and submitted your Trails & Sail event? Need some help? There is still time to become a Trails & Sails event host. Call (978) 740-0444 or email and we will walk you through the process!
Trails & Sails is generously sponsored by:
TD BANK EASTERN BANK REI
Northern Essex Community College Graduation
The Northern Essex Community College has announced the commencement speaker at graduation on May 21, 2011 will be Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Sheriff is an important figure in the region with his excellent reputation as he works to rehabilitate inmates at the two facilities he manages in the region. I have heard Sheriff Cousins speak on numerous occasions and I am certain that his message to the graduates will be meaningful.
North Shore Elder Services Recognized Nationally
After an absence of several months ,while I was hospitalized, I was pleased to be in attendance at the monthly board meeting of the North Shore Elder Services organization this week. At the meeting, Executive Director, Paul Lanzikos provided information that they had received a communication this week from their national association. The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), that two of North Shore Elder Services’ program initiatives will each receive a 2011 n4a Aging Achievement Award at the Annual Conference this July in Washington.
The Old & Bold Coalition has been selected to receive an award in the Ethnic/Cultural Diversity category and the At Your Side Medical Advocacy Program was selected in the volunteerism/civic engagement category.
Assistant Secretary Kathy Greenlee of the U.S. Administration on Aging in the Department of Health and Human Services will be presenting the awards.
Director Lanzikos also reported that two of the valued employees of the organization Lisa Sculley and Angel Dyer were participants in an inspirational graduation ceremony. The graduation marked their successful completion, along with 75 other managers from nonprofit organizations in the Greater Boston area, of a year-long program at Institute for Nonprofit Management and Leadership at the Boston University School of Management. Congratulations to both of the graduates for their achievements
The mission of the Institute for Nonprofit Management & Leadership (INML) is to educate and connect the next generation of nonprofit leaders. The Institute is designed to meet the needs of new and emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Lisa and Angel attended weekly academic sessions, participated in an ongoing peer study group, met with mentors, and completed many assignments covering the full gamut of knowledge areas that successful managers in the nonprofit sector must master.
Farmers Market opened in Newburyport last Sunday
It certainly is a sure sign that spring has arrived in Essex County when announcements of the opening of Community Farmers Markets begin to appear. In addition to the market that opened last week in Newburyport, look for openings soon in other communities like Salem, and Peabody that will offer similar opportunities. Shopping at these outdoor markets are generally great fun, and there are usually great bargains to be found as well. In addition, by visiting these locations, you offer the farming community, of this region, much needed support to keep these farms open and operating. Providing your financial support will go a long way towards preserving this much needed open space for the future of this region.
Bring Trash In. Take it Out with you
With continuing budget restrictions, causing more and more concerns to local communities, there appears to be a new trend showing up in more places. The latest location where “if you bring trash in, take it out with you” is Lynch Park in Beverly. I have seen for several months a sign calling for the same action on the soccer fields in Danvers behind the Senior Center. This action looks like a trend that nay spread and will save the communities, who adopt the plan, some much needed cash. Let’s hope that the people who are being targeted do their part and take what they bring into a park, out with them. If they do not we could have a bigger mess to clean up in the future, but this certainly seems to be a worthwhile effort,
Aggressive plan to end Downtown Peabody Flooding
It certainly was good news to hear that the City of Peabody is about to begin the long awaited and much needed work to alleviate the flooding that has occurred with great regularity in that community’s downtown. The city has hired an Engineering firm who will complete the planning and permitting applications for phase one of this work in the downtown section of the City. The work that will be done includes the installation of almost 2000 linear feet of underground culverts to convey storm water in the future to the North River It is expected that about one third of the work will be completed by late summer. There are several additional projects underway that will help to solve this issue that has plagued the City for decades. The funding for this project has come from a series of grants.
Gloucester Fishing Commission Named
Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has taken an important step to protect one of her communities most important industries. She has appointed nine people with fishing interests in the communities to a new Fisheries Commission. The new Commission has been charged with promoting and protecting the fishing industry in this working port that is so critical to the economy of Gloucester. The Commission members include many long time fishing industry advocates as well as representatives of the City.
St. Richard’s of Danvers Scholarship Golf Event
On Monday, June 6, 2011, the annual Monsignor Cusack-John Costello Golf Tournament wll be held at the Far Corners Golf Course in Boxford. The event begins at 8:00 am and is followed by a buffet lunch at the church hall on Forest Street in Danvers, The cost to participate in this event is only $80.00 per person and you wil be hard pressed to find a tournament anywhere that offers as much for such a modest fee. All of the proceeds go to a scholarship fund awarded each year to a prospective college student from the Danvers parish. To sign up for this event , contact Shaneen at 978- 804-6353. ACT NOW, as registrations close on 5/23/2011.
It is never too early to begin to plan for the Essex Heritage Premier Event.
Get ready to explore! In honor of the 10th Anniversary of Trails & Sails, Essex Heritage is giving visitors a Trails & Sails "Passport" encouraging everyone to visit 10+ sites over two weekends. Visitors with a passport validated at 10 Trails & Sails events become eligible to win a suitcase, backpack or fanny-pack courtesy of REI, full of heritage goodies!
Want to help pack our bags and reinforce your brand?
Contribute a fun item to any one of the bags of prizes - like free passes, a membership, a map, a book, a logo'd hat or other promotional gift. All contributors get a special icon in the on-line and printed event guide.
Have you planned and submitted your Trails & Sail event? Need some help? There is still time to become a Trails & Sails event host. Call (978) 740-0444 or email and we will walk you through the process!
Trails & Sails is generously sponsored by:
TD BANK EASTERN BANK REI
Northern Essex Community College Graduation
The Northern Essex Community College has announced the commencement speaker at graduation on May 21, 2011 will be Essex County Sheriff Frank Cousins. The Sheriff is an important figure in the region with his excellent reputation as he works to rehabilitate inmates at the two facilities he manages in the region. I have heard Sheriff Cousins speak on numerous occasions and I am certain that his message to the graduates will be meaningful.
North Shore Elder Services Recognized Nationally
After an absence of several months ,while I was hospitalized, I was pleased to be in attendance at the monthly board meeting of the North Shore Elder Services organization this week. At the meeting, Executive Director, Paul Lanzikos provided information that they had received a communication this week from their national association. The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), that two of North Shore Elder Services’ program initiatives will each receive a 2011 n4a Aging Achievement Award at the Annual Conference this July in Washington.
The Old & Bold Coalition has been selected to receive an award in the Ethnic/Cultural Diversity category and the At Your Side Medical Advocacy Program was selected in the volunteerism/civic engagement category.
Assistant Secretary Kathy Greenlee of the U.S. Administration on Aging in the Department of Health and Human Services will be presenting the awards.
Director Lanzikos also reported that two of the valued employees of the organization Lisa Sculley and Angel Dyer were participants in an inspirational graduation ceremony. The graduation marked their successful completion, along with 75 other managers from nonprofit organizations in the Greater Boston area, of a year-long program at Institute for Nonprofit Management and Leadership at the Boston University School of Management. Congratulations to both of the graduates for their achievements
The mission of the Institute for Nonprofit Management & Leadership (INML) is to educate and connect the next generation of nonprofit leaders. The Institute is designed to meet the needs of new and emerging leaders in the nonprofit sector.
Lisa and Angel attended weekly academic sessions, participated in an ongoing peer study group, met with mentors, and completed many assignments covering the full gamut of knowledge areas that successful managers in the nonprofit sector must master.
Farmers Market opened in Newburyport last Sunday
It certainly is a sure sign that spring has arrived in Essex County when announcements of the opening of Community Farmers Markets begin to appear. In addition to the market that opened last week in Newburyport, look for openings soon in other communities like Salem, and Peabody that will offer similar opportunities. Shopping at these outdoor markets are generally great fun, and there are usually great bargains to be found as well. In addition, by visiting these locations, you offer the farming community, of this region, much needed support to keep these farms open and operating. Providing your financial support will go a long way towards preserving this much needed open space for the future of this region.
Bring Trash In. Take it Out with you
With continuing budget restrictions, causing more and more concerns to local communities, there appears to be a new trend showing up in more places. The latest location where “if you bring trash in, take it out with you” is Lynch Park in Beverly. I have seen for several months a sign calling for the same action on the soccer fields in Danvers behind the Senior Center. This action looks like a trend that nay spread and will save the communities, who adopt the plan, some much needed cash. Let’s hope that the people who are being targeted do their part and take what they bring into a park, out with them. If they do not we could have a bigger mess to clean up in the future, but this certainly seems to be a worthwhile effort,
Aggressive plan to end Downtown Peabody Flooding
It certainly was good news to hear that the City of Peabody is about to begin the long awaited and much needed work to alleviate the flooding that has occurred with great regularity in that community’s downtown. The city has hired an Engineering firm who will complete the planning and permitting applications for phase one of this work in the downtown section of the City. The work that will be done includes the installation of almost 2000 linear feet of underground culverts to convey storm water in the future to the North River It is expected that about one third of the work will be completed by late summer. There are several additional projects underway that will help to solve this issue that has plagued the City for decades. The funding for this project has come from a series of grants.
Gloucester Fishing Commission Named
Mayor Kirk of Gloucester has taken an important step to protect one of her communities most important industries. She has appointed nine people with fishing interests in the communities to a new Fisheries Commission. The new Commission has been charged with promoting and protecting the fishing industry in this working port that is so critical to the economy of Gloucester. The Commission members include many long time fishing industry advocates as well as representatives of the City.
St. Richard’s of Danvers Scholarship Golf Event
On Monday, June 6, 2011, the annual Monsignor Cusack-John Costello Golf Tournament wll be held at the Far Corners Golf Course in Boxford. The event begins at 8:00 am and is followed by a buffet lunch at the church hall on Forest Street in Danvers, The cost to participate in this event is only $80.00 per person and you wil be hard pressed to find a tournament anywhere that offers as much for such a modest fee. All of the proceeds go to a scholarship fund awarded each year to a prospective college student from the Danvers parish. To sign up for this event , contact Shaneen at 978- 804-6353. ACT NOW, as registrations close on 5/23/2011.
Monday, May 2, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS MAY 2, 2011
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR HERITAGE HERO DINNER
Tickets and tables are now selling quickly for the Essex Heritage Hero Dinner on May 19, 2011, and we urge you to act now to make your reservation for the event that will honor Mayor Driscoll, North Shore Community College President Burton, and Danvers Town Manager Marquis. The event will be one of the premier events in the region this year, and you will not want to miss the evening of fun and good fellowship all to benefit the programs of Essex Heritage. For more information contact Deb Payson at 978 740 044 or at www.essexheritage.org
PAID PARKING TO BEGIN IN NEWBURYPORT
Beginning in early May, The City of Newburyport will start to charge visitors for parking in that communities parking lots. Parking will still be free for residents who apply for a parking sticker. We certainly understand the needs of every community to consider every possible way to increase revenue, but it will be interesting to see how this action will impact visitors who come to this regional destination to visit the many interesting shops in that community.
SALEM FIVE BANK TO COMMIT TO STAYING MUTUAL.
Joseph M. Gibbons, President of the mutual savings bank headquartered in Salem since its founding in 1855 recently announced that the corporate by laws will be changed to make it substantially more difficult for present or future management to change the form of ownership from mutual to stock. The changes will likely insure that the 156 year old bank will remain mutual into the future, and unlike public companies that operate for the benefit of stockholders, mutually owned banks operate for the benefit of depositors. The directors of a mutual bank are typically elected by corporators chosen to represent the community. The new rules call for an 80% approval vote of a merger by the corporators vs. the old 80% threshold. Also the new rules bar bank employees and overseers from personally profiting from a conversion by prohibiting them from receiving any stock within five years of the change. They can never profit from a conversion if these new bylaws are changed or repealed. The announcement went on to point out the bank is well capitalized and being mutual allows the bank to plan long term instead of having to meet projections every quarter. In addition to the Salem location, the bank has 22 branch locations is about the open two new locations in the immediate future. The bank earned $17.6 million last year and has 450 employees. Gibbons ended his announcement by stating ”community banks serve a critical role in the community for customers of the bank and the employees’
I believe that in light of some of the conversions that have taken place across the country and in this region, these changes are great news and a wonderful commitment by the Salem Five to be an important and meaningful financial partner with the communities and customers it serves into the future.
For the record, and in the spirit of full disclosure, I was an operating officer of Salem Five for almost four decades until my retirement in 1999, and I still serve the bank as a Corporator today,
MORE ROAD FUNDS FOR DANVERS
Similar to other communities, the Town of Danvers was pleased to learn recently that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will release substantially more chapter 90 funds that are used to refurbish roads in the Community In 2011 the State has awarded $911,912 that is an increase of 29% over the amounted provided in 2010. The Town is now making plans regarding which streets will be repaved.
BARON MAYER AWARD
In the last couple of days, the Danvers Family Festival Selection Committee has both contacted me, and made public an announcement that I have been selected to receive the prestigious Baron Mayer Award given each year to someone in the community who demonstrates a commitment to volunteerism and community service as did former Selectman Baron Mayer for whom the award is named. The award will be presented at the champagne reception that “kicks off” the annual Family Festival series of events. The reception is scheduled for June 24, 2011 at Glen Magna Farms in Danvers. I am pleased, honored and humbled by my selection, and I am pleased to be added to the list of former winners. I want to take this opportunity to thank the people who took the time to offer my name in nomination. The letters of nomination from Town Manager Wayne Marquis, St. John’s Prep Principal Dr. Edward Hardiman, Executive Director of Essex Heritage, Annie Harris,
Danvers Council on Aging Director Ms. Pam Parkinson was very complimentary, very flattering, and I am grateful for their support. I also want to thank the committee that selected me for this wonderful honor. I look forward to the reception in June, and hope to share the evening with many friends and associates. Tickets for the event will be available soon, and announcements will be made in the local media and on the Family Festival website at www.familyfestival.com
SALEM AWARD WINNER NAMED
Speaking of annual awards, The Salem Award committee has announced that the annual Salem Award for Human Rights and Social Justice has chosen, Jonathan Shay to receive this year’s award. The award is provided each year to keep alive the lessons of the Salem Witch Trials, and to recognize those who are speaking out and taking action to alleviate discrimination and promote tolerance. This year’s recipient is staff psychiatrist at the Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic in Boston. The award will be presented on May 7, 2011 at Salem High School. Tickets for the awards event that can include a buffet dinner can be obtained at www.salemaward.org
Olde Salem Village Activities Committee
Earlier this week, a full house of residents attended a presentation at the complex clubhouse provided by Danvers Town Archivist Richard Trask. Dick took us all back in time 300 years and provided facts along with supporting exhibits, that painted a picture of what the people who lived in this region might have been like. The exhibits he offered provided his audience with a mental picture of how the people from Salem Village lived and died at that period in the region’s history. He provided documents, grave stone rubbings and artifacts gained from archeological digs in the area. As always Dick’s presentation was interesting, articulate, and left everyone wanting more. I am proud to serve with Dick on many local organization’s boards, and he is a wonderful recourse to the Town of Danvers and this entire region. Dick also serves s a Commissioner of Essex Heritage and has served with distinction.
BEVERLY SHELTER TO STAY OPEN EVENINGS THROUGH THE SUMMER
It was wonderful news that a collection of funds in excess of $60,000 from varied resources have been pledged to be sure to keep the Beverly Homeless Shelter open evenings this summer. Congratulations to the group that organized on very short notice to complete this task.
Danvers Primary Election Day on Tuesday
If you are a resident of Danvers, remember that there is a primary election in town on Tuesday, May 3, 2011. Get out to vote. It is such an important role we all must play.
Tickets and tables are now selling quickly for the Essex Heritage Hero Dinner on May 19, 2011, and we urge you to act now to make your reservation for the event that will honor Mayor Driscoll, North Shore Community College President Burton, and Danvers Town Manager Marquis. The event will be one of the premier events in the region this year, and you will not want to miss the evening of fun and good fellowship all to benefit the programs of Essex Heritage. For more information contact Deb Payson at 978 740 044 or at www.essexheritage.org
PAID PARKING TO BEGIN IN NEWBURYPORT
Beginning in early May, The City of Newburyport will start to charge visitors for parking in that communities parking lots. Parking will still be free for residents who apply for a parking sticker. We certainly understand the needs of every community to consider every possible way to increase revenue, but it will be interesting to see how this action will impact visitors who come to this regional destination to visit the many interesting shops in that community.
SALEM FIVE BANK TO COMMIT TO STAYING MUTUAL.
Joseph M. Gibbons, President of the mutual savings bank headquartered in Salem since its founding in 1855 recently announced that the corporate by laws will be changed to make it substantially more difficult for present or future management to change the form of ownership from mutual to stock. The changes will likely insure that the 156 year old bank will remain mutual into the future, and unlike public companies that operate for the benefit of stockholders, mutually owned banks operate for the benefit of depositors. The directors of a mutual bank are typically elected by corporators chosen to represent the community. The new rules call for an 80% approval vote of a merger by the corporators vs. the old 80% threshold. Also the new rules bar bank employees and overseers from personally profiting from a conversion by prohibiting them from receiving any stock within five years of the change. They can never profit from a conversion if these new bylaws are changed or repealed. The announcement went on to point out the bank is well capitalized and being mutual allows the bank to plan long term instead of having to meet projections every quarter. In addition to the Salem location, the bank has 22 branch locations is about the open two new locations in the immediate future. The bank earned $17.6 million last year and has 450 employees. Gibbons ended his announcement by stating ”community banks serve a critical role in the community for customers of the bank and the employees’
I believe that in light of some of the conversions that have taken place across the country and in this region, these changes are great news and a wonderful commitment by the Salem Five to be an important and meaningful financial partner with the communities and customers it serves into the future.
For the record, and in the spirit of full disclosure, I was an operating officer of Salem Five for almost four decades until my retirement in 1999, and I still serve the bank as a Corporator today,
MORE ROAD FUNDS FOR DANVERS
Similar to other communities, the Town of Danvers was pleased to learn recently that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will release substantially more chapter 90 funds that are used to refurbish roads in the Community In 2011 the State has awarded $911,912 that is an increase of 29% over the amounted provided in 2010. The Town is now making plans regarding which streets will be repaved.
BARON MAYER AWARD
In the last couple of days, the Danvers Family Festival Selection Committee has both contacted me, and made public an announcement that I have been selected to receive the prestigious Baron Mayer Award given each year to someone in the community who demonstrates a commitment to volunteerism and community service as did former Selectman Baron Mayer for whom the award is named. The award will be presented at the champagne reception that “kicks off” the annual Family Festival series of events. The reception is scheduled for June 24, 2011 at Glen Magna Farms in Danvers. I am pleased, honored and humbled by my selection, and I am pleased to be added to the list of former winners. I want to take this opportunity to thank the people who took the time to offer my name in nomination. The letters of nomination from Town Manager Wayne Marquis, St. John’s Prep Principal Dr. Edward Hardiman, Executive Director of Essex Heritage, Annie Harris,
Danvers Council on Aging Director Ms. Pam Parkinson was very complimentary, very flattering, and I am grateful for their support. I also want to thank the committee that selected me for this wonderful honor. I look forward to the reception in June, and hope to share the evening with many friends and associates. Tickets for the event will be available soon, and announcements will be made in the local media and on the Family Festival website at www.familyfestival.com
SALEM AWARD WINNER NAMED
Speaking of annual awards, The Salem Award committee has announced that the annual Salem Award for Human Rights and Social Justice has chosen, Jonathan Shay to receive this year’s award. The award is provided each year to keep alive the lessons of the Salem Witch Trials, and to recognize those who are speaking out and taking action to alleviate discrimination and promote tolerance. This year’s recipient is staff psychiatrist at the Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic in Boston. The award will be presented on May 7, 2011 at Salem High School. Tickets for the awards event that can include a buffet dinner can be obtained at www.salemaward.org
Olde Salem Village Activities Committee
Earlier this week, a full house of residents attended a presentation at the complex clubhouse provided by Danvers Town Archivist Richard Trask. Dick took us all back in time 300 years and provided facts along with supporting exhibits, that painted a picture of what the people who lived in this region might have been like. The exhibits he offered provided his audience with a mental picture of how the people from Salem Village lived and died at that period in the region’s history. He provided documents, grave stone rubbings and artifacts gained from archeological digs in the area. As always Dick’s presentation was interesting, articulate, and left everyone wanting more. I am proud to serve with Dick on many local organization’s boards, and he is a wonderful recourse to the Town of Danvers and this entire region. Dick also serves s a Commissioner of Essex Heritage and has served with distinction.
BEVERLY SHELTER TO STAY OPEN EVENINGS THROUGH THE SUMMER
It was wonderful news that a collection of funds in excess of $60,000 from varied resources have been pledged to be sure to keep the Beverly Homeless Shelter open evenings this summer. Congratulations to the group that organized on very short notice to complete this task.
Danvers Primary Election Day on Tuesday
If you are a resident of Danvers, remember that there is a primary election in town on Tuesday, May 3, 2011. Get out to vote. It is such an important role we all must play.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)