Friendship Sails! September 3 & 4, 2011
Grab your windbreaker, sunglasses and a pair of binoculars for the ride of a lifetime! It is with great excitement that we announce that the National Park Service tall ship, Friendship of Salem, will once again welcome commercial passengers on day sails when she travels to and participates in the annual Gloucester Schooner Festival on Saturday, September 3rd and Sunday, September 4th, 2011.
Be part of history as a passenger-crew member aboard Friendship! Last year's participants described the experience as an "absolutely fantastic”, once in a lifetime experience"! The excursion includes a 6-hour sail, opportunities to help as a volunteer crew-member and views of the festival's participating schooners. In addition, during your excursion Park Service interpreters will share information about the ship and maritime history.
Join us! Learn more about Friendship Sails! here.
Boardwalk in Barnstable
I subscribe to a cape newspaper and receive information about Cape Cod where we own a home. In this weeks newspaper there was a story about a group of volunteers who have undertaken a project that sounds very much like the Swamp Walk project in Danvers. This project provides access to Barnstable harbor, a marsh and a creek .
The goal of the volunteer group is similar to the volunteers in Danvers as both groups are seeking to provide access where none previously has existed. It is clear that good ideas have no boundaries and if you are on the North Shore or on Cape Cod, it is nice to know that there are committed volunteers all over that will work to accomplish a difficult task for the residents of their community. Once again, congratulations to George Saluto and his merry band of volunteers for their work on the Swamp Walk. Remember George, you promised to keep me up to date on the work to make your project available to all.
Baron Mayer Award
I want to offer a few thoughts today on the wonderful award that I received at the opening Danvers Family Festival reception at the Glen Magna Estate last weekend. I was truly proud to be named the 2011 award recipient, and to be added to the spectacular group of former winners of this most important award. This evening was an honor and is clearly one of the most important recognitions that I have ever received. The weather that evening was a little damp and dreary, but the atmosphere that was created by the commitee and particularly the co chairs of the event, Anna Bertini and Irene Kucinski was warm and welcoming and we certainly appreciated their incredible efforts. I was pleased that many of my family, and many friends and associates from the various organizations that I am proud to serve, were able to be with me to share the presentation of this award, that I would never have been singled out to receive the award without their support and commitment. Thank you to everyone who attended the event,
I was also very pleased to use this opportunity to offer my thanks for the many thoughts and prayers that were offered during my recent illness. I was able to speak of my commitment to the recovery process that is so important when one must muster a substantial commitment of energy and a level of hard work if one is to recover from a serious illness. The adjustments that had to be made to allow me to continue my work as a volunteer were many and were all worth the effort. On a number of occasions, I have been told that I am an inspiration. I hope that is the truth and that others will use me as an example and believe that with hard work, anything is possible. I am in the process of writing a book, that will chronicle my serious illness, the loss of my leg and will focus on my intense desire to live and to continue to participate in life. The book will be finished in the fall of 2011, and will highlight the commitment that was made by so many people responsible for my progress. This was happening at the same time when some of the medical people that were helping overcome my new disability thought that I might never walk again, but even now, we have already proved that prediction to be wrong.
I was also able to offer some thoughts about a new role I hope to play in the future. I wish to become an active advocate for others with disabilities and how bringing the challenges they face every day that may improve conditions for both me and others with disabilities.
I am most pleased to have been chosen to receive this prestigious award and promise to continue to do all in my power to provide support and guidance to the important regional organizations that I am privileged to serve. I have a strong believe that I have been blessed in this life, and am obligated to continue to serve in what ever way I can, however possible.
Danvers Family Festival in full Swing NOW
Please take a moment to check the schedule each day for events offered as a part of the annual Family Festival at www.danversfamilyfestival.com/. There is something for everyone at this two-week event.
Follow up on Danvers Homeless Families
When you learn of recently announced plans to provide much needed support to the children of the Homeless families in Danvers, it makes you proud to live in this region with people who care so much about the welfare of others. In a recent posting to this BLOG, I provided information on the increase of families being housed in motels in the Town of Danvers. The increased population has included a number of youngsters, who now that school is finished for the year, will be left to find summer enjoyment at the motels on highways and other difficult locations. The town of Danvers has come to the rescue and in the process of creating a program to provide the needed support. The town is in the process of creating a six-week summer playground program for these new residents of the Town. The program will likely be housed at one of the Danvers schools and breakfast, lunch and snacks will be provided by senior volunteers from the People to People food pantry. The expected cost of the program including staffing, transportation and food is expected to be $25,000, and that amount is not included in the town’s budget, so if anyone wants to help support this program as of this date 168 youngsters will be in the program. Please send a check payable to the Community Council % of Town Hall or send a donation to the Food Pantry at PO BOX 2076, Danvers, Ma 01023 or drop off non-perishable food to the pantry at their location at 12 Sylvan Street across from Town Hall. The pantry will be closed for vacation during the next two weeks in July and during that time, food donations can be delivered to the Danvers YMCA or the Library. There is also a need for destinations to bring these youngsters to during the time of the camp, and any ideas relative to this concept can be offered to Recreation Department Manager David Mountain or Cheryl Marshall at 978 777 0001 ext, 3094. This kind of action being offered by one Town in this region makes one proud to live in this community.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 24, 2011
We hope that you will take a few moments to read the following items that were reprinted from the most recent Essex Heritage Newsletter. The material all pertains to the trail activities of ENHC. These activities are among the most important initiatives of Essex Heritage.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Scenic Byway Logo Unveiled
One of the high priority recommendations of the recently completed Corridor Management Plan was creation of byway logo. With thanks to the creative marketing firm of New Arts Collaborative (Rae Fran Coeur and George Courage) and favored by those attending the Essex Heritage annual spring meeting, a striking new logo can now be used by byway partners to promote their presence on the byway.
Essex Boosters Remain Positive
In the face of a down economy and a multi-year road project in their midst, the merchants of Essex look toward to the future. Read the Gloucester Daily Times article here.
Swampscott Harbor Festival, June 25
Local festivals are a sure sign of summer's fast approach. This one in Swampscott features a "duct tape regatta," teen band concert, and a bonfire - all right on the byway. Read more here.
Merrimack River Trail Initiative Launched
Photo:© Jim Higgins
In support of its mission to preserve and enhance the region's historical, cultural and natural resources, Essex Heritage, in partnership with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), recently launched a planning project focused on the development of the Merrimack River Trail, a 50-mile, 17-communty, multimodal recreational trail along the Merrimack River in Massachusetts.
Funded with a Recreational Trails Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the early stage effort entails documenting existing and potential routes and preparing recommendations regarding the trail's future development. The project is being conducted in cooperation with the Merrimack River Watershed Council and Northern Middlesex Council of Governments. For more information, please contact Essex Heritage at 978-740-0444. Read more...
Border to Boston Trail Design Begins
Nearly six years after Essex Heritage helped to secure federal funding for the project, engineers are set to begin designing a 16-mile portion of the Border to Boston Trail. Following recent federal and state approvals, the planning project will focus on the undeveloped sections of the former Boston and Maine Railroad right-of-way in Salisbury, Newbury, Georgetown, and Boxford. The scope of work entails surveying the route, addressing any environmental issues, engineering the trail itself, and determining construction costs.
Overall, the 28-mile, eight-community Border to Boston Trail is will extend from the New Hampshire border at Salisbury to Danvers. With several sections already in use, and with links to miles of local trails, the non-motorized, multi-use trail, is becoming one of the region's most outstanding recreational assets. Visit the Border to Boston website.
Nice Story About Tom Gould Providing Support
I recently read a story about a good friend of mine and how generous he and his company has been towards charities as a local small business owner. Tom Gould owns and operates Treadwell’s Ice Cream Shop in Peabody and has long been a valuable member of the regional business community. I have watched Tom as his company provided services to the Danvers Senior Center and the clients that they serve and I was always certain that he was providing his product in other places as well. His efforts to offer ice cream at certain Danvers Senior Center events over many years, was most positive. The story I recently read confirmed my suspicions as I learned that he was also providing ice cream sundaes to cancer patients at the North Shore Cancer Center on Endicott Street in Danvers. Tom has been doing this act of kindness once a month free of any charges for about a decade. This is most admirable and he should be commended for his kindness.
This type of activity also goes on at other hospitals in the region to help bring some cheer and a smile to patients. I spent several months at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem this past winter and at that facility there were numerous volunteers that offered services like ice cream socials, cookies and coffee etc on an ongoing basis. Thanks Tom, and Treadwell’s Ice Cream and all the other hospital volunteers in this region for all that you do to make seniors life’s more pleasant.
Salem Ferry Running Again
After the construction process that completed the paving of the new Salem Wharf, the popular Ferry program that runs several time a day between Salem and Boston is once again operating for the 2011 season. This program is very valuable to both communities as numerous visitors travel going in both directions using this service and it is certainly economically beneficial to both cities. If you have not tried this service yet, it is worth trying the service, as on a hot summer day, the trip can be a pleasant experience.
Preservation Work in Haverhill Recognized
Mayor James Fiorentini recently provided a municipal citation to the East Parish restoration Committee for its efforts to preserve the meeting House, and for having the building added to the National Register of Historic Places this past spring. The historic that dates to 1838, is one of only seven meeting houses still standing in the State. Last year historic Massachusetts named the property to its most endangered list, and the work that was accomplished was exceptional and timely.
Sixth Congressional District Comes Together
Last Monday evening hundred of elected officials, business people and residents of the region came together in Lynn to send a clear message that the Congressional District as presently constituted needs to remain untouched. This region, in some ways through the efforts of Essex Heritage is currently speaking with a single voice and needs to continue that posture into the future. Thanks to all who attended and made their positions known. Congratulations to Bill Luster of the North Shore Economic Alliance for his efforts in organizing the event, and a special thank you to two former Congressmen, Harrington, and Torkildensen and the present incumbent, John Tiermy for their leadership in this effort. We can all be hopeful that the re-districting Committee will listen to the comments offered by so many in the Lynn hearing.
Homeless Families located by the Commonwealth in Motels in this Region Growing Again
In recent years, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has housed a large percentage of its homeless population, from time to time, in motels in communities like Danvers, in 2010, those numbers were reducing. However in the most recent weeks, the number of families in the motels is once again growing, and the impact on Danvers is becoming serious once again. Just in the last six months, the number of homeless families housed in Danvers has increased by one hundred families. This number is a substantial increase over the recent past. The children connected to those families now totals 161 and this growth impacts many services in Danvers including school budgets, food pantry needs and other social services.
Hockey Mania in the Region starting to wind down
After a long weekend of celebrations, after clinching the Stanley Cup in Vancouver, Canada, it appears that the parades, a trip to Fenway Park, and walks with the cup in a baby stroller through the Boston’s North End are coming to an end. As a long time Bruins and hockey fan, it has been quite a ride, and for those of you that care, it is only about three months until Bruins training camp opens.
Golf’s United States Open captured by 22-year old Northern Irishman
What a sensational exhibition of golf we witnessed this past Father’s Day weekend. A young Irishman, Rory McEllroy played near flawless golf to capture his first major championship. His performance was an example of good planning and sensational execution. The victory is the second in a row by a golfer from Northern Ireland, a small country, but a hotbed of golf talent. This the first time, sine a pair of Englishmen in the 1920’s won the United State’s golf championship.
Speaking of golf, I am registered to attend a golf program for folks with physical handicaps offered at the Spaulding Rehabilitation facility in Sandwich on Cape Cod. Completion of this program will allow me to achieve one of my goals made after my leg amputation to get back on the golf course in 2011.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Scenic Byway Logo Unveiled
One of the high priority recommendations of the recently completed Corridor Management Plan was creation of byway logo. With thanks to the creative marketing firm of New Arts Collaborative (Rae Fran Coeur and George Courage) and favored by those attending the Essex Heritage annual spring meeting, a striking new logo can now be used by byway partners to promote their presence on the byway.
Essex Boosters Remain Positive
In the face of a down economy and a multi-year road project in their midst, the merchants of Essex look toward to the future. Read the Gloucester Daily Times article here.
Swampscott Harbor Festival, June 25
Local festivals are a sure sign of summer's fast approach. This one in Swampscott features a "duct tape regatta," teen band concert, and a bonfire - all right on the byway. Read more here.
Merrimack River Trail Initiative Launched
Photo:© Jim Higgins
In support of its mission to preserve and enhance the region's historical, cultural and natural resources, Essex Heritage, in partnership with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), recently launched a planning project focused on the development of the Merrimack River Trail, a 50-mile, 17-communty, multimodal recreational trail along the Merrimack River in Massachusetts.
Funded with a Recreational Trails Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the early stage effort entails documenting existing and potential routes and preparing recommendations regarding the trail's future development. The project is being conducted in cooperation with the Merrimack River Watershed Council and Northern Middlesex Council of Governments. For more information, please contact Essex Heritage at 978-740-0444. Read more...
Border to Boston Trail Design Begins
Nearly six years after Essex Heritage helped to secure federal funding for the project, engineers are set to begin designing a 16-mile portion of the Border to Boston Trail. Following recent federal and state approvals, the planning project will focus on the undeveloped sections of the former Boston and Maine Railroad right-of-way in Salisbury, Newbury, Georgetown, and Boxford. The scope of work entails surveying the route, addressing any environmental issues, engineering the trail itself, and determining construction costs.
Overall, the 28-mile, eight-community Border to Boston Trail is will extend from the New Hampshire border at Salisbury to Danvers. With several sections already in use, and with links to miles of local trails, the non-motorized, multi-use trail, is becoming one of the region's most outstanding recreational assets. Visit the Border to Boston website.
Nice Story About Tom Gould Providing Support
I recently read a story about a good friend of mine and how generous he and his company has been towards charities as a local small business owner. Tom Gould owns and operates Treadwell’s Ice Cream Shop in Peabody and has long been a valuable member of the regional business community. I have watched Tom as his company provided services to the Danvers Senior Center and the clients that they serve and I was always certain that he was providing his product in other places as well. His efforts to offer ice cream at certain Danvers Senior Center events over many years, was most positive. The story I recently read confirmed my suspicions as I learned that he was also providing ice cream sundaes to cancer patients at the North Shore Cancer Center on Endicott Street in Danvers. Tom has been doing this act of kindness once a month free of any charges for about a decade. This is most admirable and he should be commended for his kindness.
This type of activity also goes on at other hospitals in the region to help bring some cheer and a smile to patients. I spent several months at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem this past winter and at that facility there were numerous volunteers that offered services like ice cream socials, cookies and coffee etc on an ongoing basis. Thanks Tom, and Treadwell’s Ice Cream and all the other hospital volunteers in this region for all that you do to make seniors life’s more pleasant.
Salem Ferry Running Again
After the construction process that completed the paving of the new Salem Wharf, the popular Ferry program that runs several time a day between Salem and Boston is once again operating for the 2011 season. This program is very valuable to both communities as numerous visitors travel going in both directions using this service and it is certainly economically beneficial to both cities. If you have not tried this service yet, it is worth trying the service, as on a hot summer day, the trip can be a pleasant experience.
Preservation Work in Haverhill Recognized
Mayor James Fiorentini recently provided a municipal citation to the East Parish restoration Committee for its efforts to preserve the meeting House, and for having the building added to the National Register of Historic Places this past spring. The historic that dates to 1838, is one of only seven meeting houses still standing in the State. Last year historic Massachusetts named the property to its most endangered list, and the work that was accomplished was exceptional and timely.
Sixth Congressional District Comes Together
Last Monday evening hundred of elected officials, business people and residents of the region came together in Lynn to send a clear message that the Congressional District as presently constituted needs to remain untouched. This region, in some ways through the efforts of Essex Heritage is currently speaking with a single voice and needs to continue that posture into the future. Thanks to all who attended and made their positions known. Congratulations to Bill Luster of the North Shore Economic Alliance for his efforts in organizing the event, and a special thank you to two former Congressmen, Harrington, and Torkildensen and the present incumbent, John Tiermy for their leadership in this effort. We can all be hopeful that the re-districting Committee will listen to the comments offered by so many in the Lynn hearing.
Homeless Families located by the Commonwealth in Motels in this Region Growing Again
In recent years, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has housed a large percentage of its homeless population, from time to time, in motels in communities like Danvers, in 2010, those numbers were reducing. However in the most recent weeks, the number of families in the motels is once again growing, and the impact on Danvers is becoming serious once again. Just in the last six months, the number of homeless families housed in Danvers has increased by one hundred families. This number is a substantial increase over the recent past. The children connected to those families now totals 161 and this growth impacts many services in Danvers including school budgets, food pantry needs and other social services.
Hockey Mania in the Region starting to wind down
After a long weekend of celebrations, after clinching the Stanley Cup in Vancouver, Canada, it appears that the parades, a trip to Fenway Park, and walks with the cup in a baby stroller through the Boston’s North End are coming to an end. As a long time Bruins and hockey fan, it has been quite a ride, and for those of you that care, it is only about three months until Bruins training camp opens.
Golf’s United States Open captured by 22-year old Northern Irishman
What a sensational exhibition of golf we witnessed this past Father’s Day weekend. A young Irishman, Rory McEllroy played near flawless golf to capture his first major championship. His performance was an example of good planning and sensational execution. The victory is the second in a row by a golfer from Northern Ireland, a small country, but a hotbed of golf talent. This the first time, sine a pair of Englishmen in the 1920’s won the United State’s golf championship.
Speaking of golf, I am registered to attend a golf program for folks with physical handicaps offered at the Spaulding Rehabilitation facility in Sandwich on Cape Cod. Completion of this program will allow me to achieve one of my goals made after my leg amputation to get back on the golf course in 2011.
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 24, 2011
We hope that you will take a few moments to read the following items that were reprinted from the most recent Essex Heritage Newsletter. The material all pertains to the trail activities of ENHC. These activities are among the most important initiatives of Essex Heritage.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Scenic Byway Logo Unveiled
One of the high priority recommendations of the recently completed Corridor Management Plan was creation of byway logo. With thanks to the creative marketing firm of New Arts Collaborative (Rae Fran Coeur and George Courage) and favored by those attending the Essex Heritage annual spring meeting, a striking new logo can now be used by byway partners to promote their presence on the byway.
Essex Boosters Remain Positive
In the face of a down economy and a multi-year road project in their midst, the merchants of Essex look toward to the future. Read the Gloucester Daily Times article here.
Swampscott Harbor Festival, June 25
Local festivals are a sure sign of summer's fast approach. This one in Swampscott features a "duct tape regatta," teen band concert, and a bonfire - all right on the byway. Read more here.
Merrimack River Trail Initiative Launched
Photo:© Jim Higgins
In support of its mission to preserve and enhance the region's historical, cultural and natural resources, Essex Heritage, in partnership with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), recently launched a planning project focused on the development of the Merrimack River Trail, a 50-mile, 17-communty, multimodal recreational trail along the Merrimack River in Massachusetts.
Funded with a Recreational Trails Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the early stage effort entails documenting existing and potential routes and preparing recommendations regarding the trail's future development. The project is being conducted in cooperation with the Merrimack River Watershed Council and Northern Middlesex Council of Governments. For more information, please contact Essex Heritage at 978-740-0444. Read more...
Border to Boston Trail Design Begins
Nearly six years after Essex Heritage helped to secure federal funding for the project, engineers are set to begin designing a 16-mile portion of the Border to Boston Trail. Following recent federal and state approvals, the planning project will focus on the undeveloped sections of the former Boston and Maine Railroad right-of-way in Salisbury, Newbury, Georgetown, and Boxford. The scope of work entails surveying the route, addressing any environmental issues, engineering the trail itself, and determining construction costs.
Overall, the 28-mile, eight-community Border to Boston Trail is will extend from the New Hampshire border at Salisbury to Danvers. With several sections already in use, and with links to miles of local trails, the non-motorized, multi-use trail, is becoming one of the region's most outstanding recreational assets. Visit the Border to Boston website.
Nice Story About Tom Gould Providing Support
I recently read a story about a good friend of mine and how generous he and his company has been towards charities as a local small business owner. Tom Gould owns and operates Treadwell’s Ice Cream Shop in Peabody and has long been a valuable member of the regional business community. I have watched Tom as his company provided services to the Danvers Senior Center and the clients that they serve and I was always certain that he was providing his product in other places as well. His efforts to offer ice cream at certain Danvers Senior Center events over many years, was most positive. The story I recently read confirmed my suspicions as I learned that he was also providing ice cream sundaes to cancer patients at the North Shore Cancer Center on Endicott Street in Danvers. Tom has been doing this act of kindness once a month free of any charges for about a decade. This is most admirable and he should be commended for his kindness.
This type of activity also goes on at other hospitals in the region to help bring some cheer and a smile to patients. I spent several months at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem this past winter and at that facility there were numerous volunteers that offered services like ice cream socials, cookies and coffee etc on an ongoing basis. Thanks Tom, and Treadwell’s Ice Cream and all the other hospital volunteers in this region for all that you do to make seniors life’s more pleasant.
Salem Ferry Running Again
After the construction process that completed the paving of the new Salem Wharf, the popular Ferry program that runs several time a day between Salem and Boston is once again operating for the 2011 season. This program is very valuable to both communities as numerous visitors travel going in both directions using this service and it is certainly economically beneficial to both cities. If you have not tried this service yet, it is worth trying the service, as on a hot summer day, the trip can be a pleasant experience.
Preservation Work in Haverhill Recognized
Mayor James Fiorentini recently provided a municipal citation to the East Parish restoration Committee for its efforts to preserve the meeting House, and for having the building added to the National Register of Historic Places this past spring. The historic that dates to 1838, is one of only seven meeting houses still standing in the State. Last year historic Massachusetts named the property to its most endangered list, and the work that was accomplished was exceptional and timely.
Sixth Congressional District Comes Together
Last Monday evening hundred of elected officials, business people and residents of the region came together in Lynn to send a clear message that the Congressional District as presently constituted needs to remain untouched. This region, in some ways through the efforts of Essex Heritage is currently speaking with a single voice and needs to continue that posture into the future. Thanks to all who attended and made their positions known. Congratulations to Bill Luster of the North Shore Economic Alliance for his efforts in organizing the event, and a special thank you to two former Congressmen, Harrington, and Torkildensen and the present incumbent, John Tiermy for their leadership in this effort. We can all be hopeful that the re-districting Committee will listen to the comments offered by so many in the Lynn hearing.
Homeless Families located by the Commonwealth in Motels in this Region Growing Again
In recent years, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has housed a large percentage of its homeless population, from time to time, in motels in communities like Danvers, in 2010, those numbers were reducing. However in the most recent weeks, the number of families in the motels is once again growing, and the impact on Danvers is becoming serious once again. Just in the last six months, the number of homeless families housed in Danvers has increased by one hundred families. This number is a substantial increase over the recent past. The children connected to those families now totals 161 and this growth impacts many services in Danvers including school budgets, food pantry needs and other social services.
Hockey Mania in the Region starting to wind down
After a long weekend of celebrations, after clinching the Stanley Cup in Vancouver, Canada, it appears that the parades, a trip to Fenway Park, and walks with the cup in a baby stroller through the Boston’s North End are coming to an end. As a long time Bruins and hockey fan, it has been quite a ride, and for those of you that care, it is only about three months until Bruins training camp opens.
Golf’s United States Open captured by 22-year old Northern Irishman
What a sensational exhibition of golf we witnessed this past Father’s Day weekend. A young Irishman, Rory McEllroy played near flawless golf to capture his first major championship. His performance was an example of good planning and sensational execution. The victory is the second in a row by a golfer from Northern Ireland, a small country, but a hotbed of golf talent. This the first time, sine a pair of Englishmen in the 1920’s won the United State’s golf championship.
Speaking of golf, I am registered to attend a golf program for folks with physical handicaps offered at the Spaulding Rehabilitation facility in Sandwich on Cape Cod. Completion of this program will allow me to achieve one of my goals made after my leg amputation to get back on the golf course in 2011.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Scenic Byway Logo Unveiled
One of the high priority recommendations of the recently completed Corridor Management Plan was creation of byway logo. With thanks to the creative marketing firm of New Arts Collaborative (Rae Fran Coeur and George Courage) and favored by those attending the Essex Heritage annual spring meeting, a striking new logo can now be used by byway partners to promote their presence on the byway.
Essex Boosters Remain Positive
In the face of a down economy and a multi-year road project in their midst, the merchants of Essex look toward to the future. Read the Gloucester Daily Times article here.
Swampscott Harbor Festival, June 25
Local festivals are a sure sign of summer's fast approach. This one in Swampscott features a "duct tape regatta," teen band concert, and a bonfire - all right on the byway. Read more here.
Merrimack River Trail Initiative Launched
Photo:© Jim Higgins
In support of its mission to preserve and enhance the region's historical, cultural and natural resources, Essex Heritage, in partnership with the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC), recently launched a planning project focused on the development of the Merrimack River Trail, a 50-mile, 17-communty, multimodal recreational trail along the Merrimack River in Massachusetts.
Funded with a Recreational Trails Grant from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, the early stage effort entails documenting existing and potential routes and preparing recommendations regarding the trail's future development. The project is being conducted in cooperation with the Merrimack River Watershed Council and Northern Middlesex Council of Governments. For more information, please contact Essex Heritage at 978-740-0444. Read more...
Border to Boston Trail Design Begins
Nearly six years after Essex Heritage helped to secure federal funding for the project, engineers are set to begin designing a 16-mile portion of the Border to Boston Trail. Following recent federal and state approvals, the planning project will focus on the undeveloped sections of the former Boston and Maine Railroad right-of-way in Salisbury, Newbury, Georgetown, and Boxford. The scope of work entails surveying the route, addressing any environmental issues, engineering the trail itself, and determining construction costs.
Overall, the 28-mile, eight-community Border to Boston Trail is will extend from the New Hampshire border at Salisbury to Danvers. With several sections already in use, and with links to miles of local trails, the non-motorized, multi-use trail, is becoming one of the region's most outstanding recreational assets. Visit the Border to Boston website.
Nice Story About Tom Gould Providing Support
I recently read a story about a good friend of mine and how generous he and his company has been towards charities as a local small business owner. Tom Gould owns and operates Treadwell’s Ice Cream Shop in Peabody and has long been a valuable member of the regional business community. I have watched Tom as his company provided services to the Danvers Senior Center and the clients that they serve and I was always certain that he was providing his product in other places as well. His efforts to offer ice cream at certain Danvers Senior Center events over many years, was most positive. The story I recently read confirmed my suspicions as I learned that he was also providing ice cream sundaes to cancer patients at the North Shore Cancer Center on Endicott Street in Danvers. Tom has been doing this act of kindness once a month free of any charges for about a decade. This is most admirable and he should be commended for his kindness.
This type of activity also goes on at other hospitals in the region to help bring some cheer and a smile to patients. I spent several months at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem this past winter and at that facility there were numerous volunteers that offered services like ice cream socials, cookies and coffee etc on an ongoing basis. Thanks Tom, and Treadwell’s Ice Cream and all the other hospital volunteers in this region for all that you do to make seniors life’s more pleasant.
Salem Ferry Running Again
After the construction process that completed the paving of the new Salem Wharf, the popular Ferry program that runs several time a day between Salem and Boston is once again operating for the 2011 season. This program is very valuable to both communities as numerous visitors travel going in both directions using this service and it is certainly economically beneficial to both cities. If you have not tried this service yet, it is worth trying the service, as on a hot summer day, the trip can be a pleasant experience.
Preservation Work in Haverhill Recognized
Mayor James Fiorentini recently provided a municipal citation to the East Parish restoration Committee for its efforts to preserve the meeting House, and for having the building added to the National Register of Historic Places this past spring. The historic that dates to 1838, is one of only seven meeting houses still standing in the State. Last year historic Massachusetts named the property to its most endangered list, and the work that was accomplished was exceptional and timely.
Sixth Congressional District Comes Together
Last Monday evening hundred of elected officials, business people and residents of the region came together in Lynn to send a clear message that the Congressional District as presently constituted needs to remain untouched. This region, in some ways through the efforts of Essex Heritage is currently speaking with a single voice and needs to continue that posture into the future. Thanks to all who attended and made their positions known. Congratulations to Bill Luster of the North Shore Economic Alliance for his efforts in organizing the event, and a special thank you to two former Congressmen, Harrington, and Torkildensen and the present incumbent, John Tiermy for their leadership in this effort. We can all be hopeful that the re-districting Committee will listen to the comments offered by so many in the Lynn hearing.
Homeless Families located by the Commonwealth in Motels in this Region Growing Again
In recent years, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has housed a large percentage of its homeless population, from time to time, in motels in communities like Danvers, in 2010, those numbers were reducing. However in the most recent weeks, the number of families in the motels is once again growing, and the impact on Danvers is becoming serious once again. Just in the last six months, the number of homeless families housed in Danvers has increased by one hundred families. This number is a substantial increase over the recent past. The children connected to those families now totals 161 and this growth impacts many services in Danvers including school budgets, food pantry needs and other social services.
Hockey Mania in the Region starting to wind down
After a long weekend of celebrations, after clinching the Stanley Cup in Vancouver, Canada, it appears that the parades, a trip to Fenway Park, and walks with the cup in a baby stroller through the Boston’s North End are coming to an end. As a long time Bruins and hockey fan, it has been quite a ride, and for those of you that care, it is only about three months until Bruins training camp opens.
Golf’s United States Open captured by 22-year old Northern Irishman
What a sensational exhibition of golf we witnessed this past Father’s Day weekend. A young Irishman, Rory McEllroy played near flawless golf to capture his first major championship. His performance was an example of good planning and sensational execution. The victory is the second in a row by a golfer from Northern Ireland, a small country, but a hotbed of golf talent. This the first time, sine a pair of Englishmen in the 1920’s won the United State’s golf championship.
Speaking of golf, I am registered to attend a golf program for folks with physical handicaps offered at the Spaulding Rehabilitation facility in Sandwich on Cape Cod. Completion of this program will allow me to achieve one of my goals made after my leg amputation to get back on the golf course in 2011.
Monday, June 20, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 20, 2011
Please review the information on the 2011 Essex Heritage’s Trails and Sails Event first provided in a recent Essex Heritage Newsletter
Event Submission Deadline, June 27
Each year, Essex Heritage coordinates fun and free weekends to celebrate the many organizations, businesses and events around this heritage area. This year marks the 10th anniversary - join us as we celebrate 10 years of TRAILS & SAILS.
Want to bring new visitors to your site? Sign up to host a fun event. The deadline is June 27 so don't wait!! If you would like to participate as an event host please email Emily or give us a call at 978-740-0444. We can help with ideas for a fun event to bring new visitors to you.
Benefit Night, June 28 A special thanks to Flatbread Company in Amesbury for having a night to celebrate Trails & Sails. Please join us in an evening of good food and fund raising: Tuesday, June 28 at Flatbread Company in Amesbury. Come hungry; bring your friends and family. Flatbread will donate a portion of each pizza sold during the evening! This is a delicious opportunity to support your favorite annual event.
Essex Heritage Trustee Meeting
Early last week the Essex Heritage Board of Trustees met to hear reports from Committee Chairs and from the Executive Team. The Development Committee offered a most positive report about how the Essex Heritage Hero’s event last month exceeded all of the financial and social goals that had been established. It was also reported that an appreciation event for all corporate supporters was scheduled for September to provide the opportunity to say thank you for their support.
The Nominating Committee recommended that the Board elect John Farmer of Danvers and Eastern Bank to fill a vacant spot on the Board of Trustees. That recommendation was approved unanimously.
Executive Director Annie Harris reported news that was both good and bad. She provided information to the Board that Patty Trap the Superintendent of the two National Park Service sites in this region has received a wonderful promotion. In mid July, she will join the Senior Administration Team at the National Park Service as the Deputy Director of the mid-west region of the Service in Omaha, Nebraska. The bad news that comes with the announcement is that Essex Heritage is losing a wonderful partner, who most certainly will be leaving her post in this region after enhancing and introducing a number of new and relevant programs. In the time Patty was assigned here in the Essex Heritage region she brought new ideas ”to the table” that provided more service to the residents of this region. We will certainly miss her, but we wish her well, and certainly expect that she will take her admiration of the mission of Heritage Area’s to her new assignment. The national view for Heritage Area’s continues to improve as the Congressional Caucus to help bring attention to the mission, established in 2010 has now grown to include forty-nine members of Congress and National Legislation that would impact Essex Heritage is being formulated and we are hopeful of its passage in the future..
Bill Steelman brought us all up to date on the activities relative to the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway, that has adopted a logo, a marketing tag line and is beginning to develop a web site and an application for smart phones. The commission is acting as the administrator of this venture, and has applied for a grant to assist in the development of this project. He also reported that ENHC is also now helping a group that is developing the Merrimack Valley Trail in the northern part of the Area
Ms Harris noted that she and the Commission are playing an important role in a hearing in Lynn relative to Congressional redistricting. Following this report. I have added a reprint from the most recent ENHC newsletter that outlines the hearing on Monday, June 20, 2011 and the ramifications of redistricting to this region.
Essex National Heritage Area Could Be Split Between New Congressional Districts
Massachusetts is undergoing Congressional Redistricting and the Essex National Heritage Area risks being divided between two or three congressional districts. Why does this matter? We have a coherent area that works together as a region. While other congressional districts in Mass. have changed their shape in response to politics, the 6th district has remained largely intact in its present configuration since the mid 19th century. Our unity and history contributed to our designation as a National Heritage Area and have sustained Essex Heritage's regional work on trails, historic themes and sites, and the scenic byway.
Massachusetts Joint Redistricting Committee is meeting on June 20 at 6:00 PM at Lynn City Hall. This is the opportunity for all citizens to attend and urge the committee to keep the North Shore and Lower Merrimack Valley together in one Congressional District. Read more here (pdf).
IF YOU ARE READING THIS ITEM TODAY ON 6/20 AND CAN MAKE THE TIME, CONSIDER A VISIT TO LYNN CITY HALL TO ATTEND AND MAKE YOUR CONCERNS KNOW ABOUT CONGRESSIONAL RE-DISTRICTING
Artists in Residence in Peabody
The Peabody Historical Society has taken a most positive step to install two young women as artists in residence for the society. The two young women are artists who have either graduated or are attending Montserrat College of Art in Beverly. The two young women are now living in a historical property owned by the society and their task over the seven week assignment is to paint scenes of the Leather city. Their work does not have to focus only on historic subjects, but are free to paint what they like. When the summer session is complete the Society will have a large supply of paintings to display in Society properties and around the city. The two young artists are being compensated for their efforts as well as living in housing in a historic venue. The idea is a good one, and in a way matches the arrangement that the Danvers Historical Society has done with their Artists in Residence program with Essex Harmony.
Jim McAllister Program in Salem
Jim McAllister, the very first Essex Heritage Hero named in Salem three years ago, has created what he calls a Love song for Salem that consists of dozens of images of his adopted city. The presentation of his photography work over the last 15 years, while operating his tour business in Salem, will be shown twice at the National Park Service visitor center on June 30, 2011 at 5:30 and 7:30 that night. There will be a $10 charge to attend the presentation and the proceeds will be distributed to tourist related organizations, and Essex Heritage will be one of those organizations. For more information on the event or for reservations contact Jim at culturecorner@gmail.com.
Event Submission Deadline, June 27
Each year, Essex Heritage coordinates fun and free weekends to celebrate the many organizations, businesses and events around this heritage area. This year marks the 10th anniversary - join us as we celebrate 10 years of TRAILS & SAILS.
Want to bring new visitors to your site? Sign up to host a fun event. The deadline is June 27 so don't wait!! If you would like to participate as an event host please email Emily or give us a call at 978-740-0444. We can help with ideas for a fun event to bring new visitors to you.
Benefit Night, June 28 A special thanks to Flatbread Company in Amesbury for having a night to celebrate Trails & Sails. Please join us in an evening of good food and fund raising: Tuesday, June 28 at Flatbread Company in Amesbury. Come hungry; bring your friends and family. Flatbread will donate a portion of each pizza sold during the evening! This is a delicious opportunity to support your favorite annual event.
Essex Heritage Trustee Meeting
Early last week the Essex Heritage Board of Trustees met to hear reports from Committee Chairs and from the Executive Team. The Development Committee offered a most positive report about how the Essex Heritage Hero’s event last month exceeded all of the financial and social goals that had been established. It was also reported that an appreciation event for all corporate supporters was scheduled for September to provide the opportunity to say thank you for their support.
The Nominating Committee recommended that the Board elect John Farmer of Danvers and Eastern Bank to fill a vacant spot on the Board of Trustees. That recommendation was approved unanimously.
Executive Director Annie Harris reported news that was both good and bad. She provided information to the Board that Patty Trap the Superintendent of the two National Park Service sites in this region has received a wonderful promotion. In mid July, she will join the Senior Administration Team at the National Park Service as the Deputy Director of the mid-west region of the Service in Omaha, Nebraska. The bad news that comes with the announcement is that Essex Heritage is losing a wonderful partner, who most certainly will be leaving her post in this region after enhancing and introducing a number of new and relevant programs. In the time Patty was assigned here in the Essex Heritage region she brought new ideas ”to the table” that provided more service to the residents of this region. We will certainly miss her, but we wish her well, and certainly expect that she will take her admiration of the mission of Heritage Area’s to her new assignment. The national view for Heritage Area’s continues to improve as the Congressional Caucus to help bring attention to the mission, established in 2010 has now grown to include forty-nine members of Congress and National Legislation that would impact Essex Heritage is being formulated and we are hopeful of its passage in the future..
Bill Steelman brought us all up to date on the activities relative to the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway, that has adopted a logo, a marketing tag line and is beginning to develop a web site and an application for smart phones. The commission is acting as the administrator of this venture, and has applied for a grant to assist in the development of this project. He also reported that ENHC is also now helping a group that is developing the Merrimack Valley Trail in the northern part of the Area
Ms Harris noted that she and the Commission are playing an important role in a hearing in Lynn relative to Congressional redistricting. Following this report. I have added a reprint from the most recent ENHC newsletter that outlines the hearing on Monday, June 20, 2011 and the ramifications of redistricting to this region.
Essex National Heritage Area Could Be Split Between New Congressional Districts
Massachusetts is undergoing Congressional Redistricting and the Essex National Heritage Area risks being divided between two or three congressional districts. Why does this matter? We have a coherent area that works together as a region. While other congressional districts in Mass. have changed their shape in response to politics, the 6th district has remained largely intact in its present configuration since the mid 19th century. Our unity and history contributed to our designation as a National Heritage Area and have sustained Essex Heritage's regional work on trails, historic themes and sites, and the scenic byway.
Massachusetts Joint Redistricting Committee is meeting on June 20 at 6:00 PM at Lynn City Hall. This is the opportunity for all citizens to attend and urge the committee to keep the North Shore and Lower Merrimack Valley together in one Congressional District. Read more here (pdf).
IF YOU ARE READING THIS ITEM TODAY ON 6/20 AND CAN MAKE THE TIME, CONSIDER A VISIT TO LYNN CITY HALL TO ATTEND AND MAKE YOUR CONCERNS KNOW ABOUT CONGRESSIONAL RE-DISTRICTING
Artists in Residence in Peabody
The Peabody Historical Society has taken a most positive step to install two young women as artists in residence for the society. The two young women are artists who have either graduated or are attending Montserrat College of Art in Beverly. The two young women are now living in a historical property owned by the society and their task over the seven week assignment is to paint scenes of the Leather city. Their work does not have to focus only on historic subjects, but are free to paint what they like. When the summer session is complete the Society will have a large supply of paintings to display in Society properties and around the city. The two young artists are being compensated for their efforts as well as living in housing in a historic venue. The idea is a good one, and in a way matches the arrangement that the Danvers Historical Society has done with their Artists in Residence program with Essex Harmony.
Jim McAllister Program in Salem
Jim McAllister, the very first Essex Heritage Hero named in Salem three years ago, has created what he calls a Love song for Salem that consists of dozens of images of his adopted city. The presentation of his photography work over the last 15 years, while operating his tour business in Salem, will be shown twice at the National Park Service visitor center on June 30, 2011 at 5:30 and 7:30 that night. There will be a $10 charge to attend the presentation and the proceeds will be distributed to tourist related organizations, and Essex Heritage will be one of those organizations. For more information on the event or for reservations contact Jim at culturecorner@gmail.com.
Friday, June 17, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 17, 2011
Please review the following article from the most recent Essex Heritage newsletter that provides information on an important education program offered by Essex Heritage
Connecting Essex LINCs
For the past four years, elementary educators in Essex County have attended seminars in which they gained access to primary sources and brought them into their classrooms in new and unique ways. Through an Essex National Heritage Commission partnership with Beverly Public Schools, the National Archives and Records Administration, and Salem State University, Connecting Essex LINCs, a federally funded Teaching American History grant, has positioned teachers to tell those stories. Now in its final weeks, the program has completed 28 workshops and 5 week long summer institutes. Approximately 145 teachers visited local historic sites and participated in "try-outs" of multi-level lessons. They, in turn, created approximately 300 activities with those resources.
At each workshop, university scholars explored the broad themes of "governing," "working," or "peopling" the Area. Lessons ranged from a recreation of a typical 19thc town meeting to an eagle concentration game aimed at familiarizing young students with a national symbol. Activities used an inquiry method that encourages students to interact with source material, taking a hands-on approach. Primary sources from over 20 different communities within Essex County were located, digitized, transcribed and put into lessons. Those lessons and primary sources can be located on the grant website.
Frank Tyrell Completes Fifty Years in Kiwanis
Frank Tyrell is an institution in the Town of Danvers and it was nice to see him featured in a recent story in the Salem News. The story was about Frank’s ongoing participation as the only remaining charter member of the two- dozen folks that formed the Danvers Kiwanis Club fifty years ago. Frank is now 93 years young, but is going as strong now as I am sure he did 50 years ago. He has served many organizations in his long and illustrious life including the Danvers Historical Society where we both serve as board members. Frank is still an active “player” in the work of the Society as he is in his role as a long time Danvers Town Meeting Member. In the past, Frank has shown a long-term interest in the youth of Danvers and education as he represented the Town of Danvers on the North Shore Vocational School Board and also served on the Danvers School Committee for a number of years; A couple of months ago, at Frank’s request, I provided a presentation to the Beverly-Danvers Grange about the mission of Essex Heritage, and found another organization that has and continues to benefit from Frank Tyrell’s wisdom and energy. Congratulations to the Danvers Kiwanis club and the many members of that superlative community civic club, on their golden anniversary and to Frank Tyrell on his five decades of service to the community of Danvers. I have spoken to the Danvers Kiwanis group on several occasions, about the work of Essex Heritage and have seen the respect offered to Frank in his ongoing role as the only active charter member of the club. I serve as an active Salem Rotarian, but have long ago recognized the wonderful service provided to the community by the Danvers Kiwanis Club, and committed members like Frank Tyrell.
Wonderful Wheelchair Story from Lawrence
I am sorry that I do not have all of the names and pertinent information on a story that developed recently in Lawrence. In the last several weeks there has not been a lot of positive news coming out of the northern Essex County community that is one of the northern most communities in the Essex Heritage Area. The recent news concerning the mayor and a number of investigations that he and his administration are being subjected to have all cast the largest city in the region in a most negative light. At the end of last week there seemed to be even more bad news coming out of the city, when a youngster suffering from Cerebral Palsy had his wheelchair, that is his only means of transportation, stolen from in front of his home while he was inside getting dressed for school. Incidents that involve the use of wheelchairs by folks that are disabled in one way or another are of great interest to me, and this is a story that certainly caught my attention.
Fortunately the story had a happy ending as a former teacher of the young man came to his home with a replacement wheelchair that she no longer needed. If that were not good news enough, several others from this former mill city also arrived at the home with chairs to help the young man. His parents have now made certain that all of the extra chairs have found their way to an organization that provides help to youngsters with developmental issues so this is a story that ended well not just for the youngster whose chair was taken, but possibly for a number of youngsters who clearly need help.
Amesbury Banker Charlie Cullen Offers to have a Buzz Cut for Charity
In the years that I have known Essex County banker, Charlie Cullen, time and time again, he has been a focal point for numerous charity efforts in this region. He has offered his services as the chairman of numerous charity appeals, as a Master of Ceremonies of fundraising events and has generally been available to support good causes, including Essex Heritage, without much concern for his personal comfort level. He is now involved in the ultimate fundraising effort without concern for his personal comfort. This time, he has taken on the ultimate challenge to his fundraising skills. There is an ongoing effort in Amesbury to raise funds for a young man that was paralyzed in an auto accident. The event that Charlie has become involved in is an event at the Amesbury sports center dubbed” Rip it and Clip it”. The event is a hair-cutting event for the benefit of the young man who was paralyzed in the accident. The roster of local celebrities that have been lined up to have their hair trimmed is a “Who’s Who of the tri-town region. The organizers have lined up the mayors of Amesbury and Newburyport and the Sheriff of Essex County along with Charlie Cullen to participate. But the star of the event will be our good friend, Charlie Cullen who has agreed to have a buzz cut administered on his head if $5000 in additional pledges from the public can be raised that will then match a $5000 pledge to the event from The Provident Bank where Charlie serves as President. The event is scheduled for this Friday, June 17, 2011 from 6 to 11, Tickets are for sale for the event at $10. For more information go to www.natebibaud.org/“help-the-cause. or to support the banks matching donation, visit www.TheProvidentBank.com .
St. Peter’s Festival Scheduled Later this Month
The annual St. Peter’s Festival will once again be held in the working seaport community of Gloucester on the weekend of June 22-26. The community of Gloucester has become a wonderful destination for visitors to this region and for the residents of the area, and the annual Fiesta is a special event that focuses on the important maritime heritage of this community. The event will begin on June 22nd with a concert at 7:00 pm at St. Peter’s Park. Other events scheduled during the Festival include a 5K Road race, the famous greasy pole contest, and boat races featuring the Coast Guard vs. the Navy and the Gloucester Fire vs. the Police Department. There will also be a prayer service and a closing procession. For more information and a detailed schedule of events visit www.stpetersfiesta.org.
Farmer’s Markets to open in June in Middleton, and Salem.
• The Farmer’s Market in Middleton will open for the 2011 season on June 22nd in the parking lot of Angelica’s restaurant on route 114 from 3 until 6 every Wednesday through the end of the growing season. The Market will feature baked goods, fresh produce orchard products and lobsters offered by 20 local vendors. For more information visit www.middletonfm@gmail.com.
• The Salem Farmer’s Market will open its third season this Thursday, June 17th from 3-7 and will run through October 20th. This year the market will include 25 vendors who will provide fresh produce and eggs from local farms. On the opening day, the Salem Market will offer music and a cooking demonstration. Last year over 44,000 people visited the Market in a 19-week season. For more information on this event, visit sfm@salemmainstreets.org.
Peabody Library Event
On Saturday, June 18, 2011. The Peabody Institute Library in the leather city and will feature a youth and teen day to celebrate the start of the summer season outside the library from 1:30 to 3:30. The event will feature a community block party that will include youth bands, teen dance crews, a temporary tattoo parlor, a photo booth, entertainment, and a martial arts demonstration. The event is free and open to all, and is designed to encourage young people to participate in a summer reading program. The event will certainly be a fun time for the youth of the city and the goal to encourage reading is a most enviable goal.
Welcome Back to Boston, Lord Stanley
The old faithful and the many new fans of the Boston Bruins were all ecstatic when the team played so exceptional on Wednesday night in Vancouver, Canada and brought the Stanley Cup back to Boston. That win means that in the last seven years the Boston professional entries have all won a national title. That professional sports Grand slam is almost an embarrassment of riches for this region. for those of you who will make the trip into Boston on Saturday to view the Stanley Cup and to applaud the team, enjoy the experience.
Connecting Essex LINCs
For the past four years, elementary educators in Essex County have attended seminars in which they gained access to primary sources and brought them into their classrooms in new and unique ways. Through an Essex National Heritage Commission partnership with Beverly Public Schools, the National Archives and Records Administration, and Salem State University, Connecting Essex LINCs, a federally funded Teaching American History grant, has positioned teachers to tell those stories. Now in its final weeks, the program has completed 28 workshops and 5 week long summer institutes. Approximately 145 teachers visited local historic sites and participated in "try-outs" of multi-level lessons. They, in turn, created approximately 300 activities with those resources.
At each workshop, university scholars explored the broad themes of "governing," "working," or "peopling" the Area. Lessons ranged from a recreation of a typical 19thc town meeting to an eagle concentration game aimed at familiarizing young students with a national symbol. Activities used an inquiry method that encourages students to interact with source material, taking a hands-on approach. Primary sources from over 20 different communities within Essex County were located, digitized, transcribed and put into lessons. Those lessons and primary sources can be located on the grant website.
Frank Tyrell Completes Fifty Years in Kiwanis
Frank Tyrell is an institution in the Town of Danvers and it was nice to see him featured in a recent story in the Salem News. The story was about Frank’s ongoing participation as the only remaining charter member of the two- dozen folks that formed the Danvers Kiwanis Club fifty years ago. Frank is now 93 years young, but is going as strong now as I am sure he did 50 years ago. He has served many organizations in his long and illustrious life including the Danvers Historical Society where we both serve as board members. Frank is still an active “player” in the work of the Society as he is in his role as a long time Danvers Town Meeting Member. In the past, Frank has shown a long-term interest in the youth of Danvers and education as he represented the Town of Danvers on the North Shore Vocational School Board and also served on the Danvers School Committee for a number of years; A couple of months ago, at Frank’s request, I provided a presentation to the Beverly-Danvers Grange about the mission of Essex Heritage, and found another organization that has and continues to benefit from Frank Tyrell’s wisdom and energy. Congratulations to the Danvers Kiwanis club and the many members of that superlative community civic club, on their golden anniversary and to Frank Tyrell on his five decades of service to the community of Danvers. I have spoken to the Danvers Kiwanis group on several occasions, about the work of Essex Heritage and have seen the respect offered to Frank in his ongoing role as the only active charter member of the club. I serve as an active Salem Rotarian, but have long ago recognized the wonderful service provided to the community by the Danvers Kiwanis Club, and committed members like Frank Tyrell.
Wonderful Wheelchair Story from Lawrence
I am sorry that I do not have all of the names and pertinent information on a story that developed recently in Lawrence. In the last several weeks there has not been a lot of positive news coming out of the northern Essex County community that is one of the northern most communities in the Essex Heritage Area. The recent news concerning the mayor and a number of investigations that he and his administration are being subjected to have all cast the largest city in the region in a most negative light. At the end of last week there seemed to be even more bad news coming out of the city, when a youngster suffering from Cerebral Palsy had his wheelchair, that is his only means of transportation, stolen from in front of his home while he was inside getting dressed for school. Incidents that involve the use of wheelchairs by folks that are disabled in one way or another are of great interest to me, and this is a story that certainly caught my attention.
Fortunately the story had a happy ending as a former teacher of the young man came to his home with a replacement wheelchair that she no longer needed. If that were not good news enough, several others from this former mill city also arrived at the home with chairs to help the young man. His parents have now made certain that all of the extra chairs have found their way to an organization that provides help to youngsters with developmental issues so this is a story that ended well not just for the youngster whose chair was taken, but possibly for a number of youngsters who clearly need help.
Amesbury Banker Charlie Cullen Offers to have a Buzz Cut for Charity
In the years that I have known Essex County banker, Charlie Cullen, time and time again, he has been a focal point for numerous charity efforts in this region. He has offered his services as the chairman of numerous charity appeals, as a Master of Ceremonies of fundraising events and has generally been available to support good causes, including Essex Heritage, without much concern for his personal comfort level. He is now involved in the ultimate fundraising effort without concern for his personal comfort. This time, he has taken on the ultimate challenge to his fundraising skills. There is an ongoing effort in Amesbury to raise funds for a young man that was paralyzed in an auto accident. The event that Charlie has become involved in is an event at the Amesbury sports center dubbed” Rip it and Clip it”. The event is a hair-cutting event for the benefit of the young man who was paralyzed in the accident. The roster of local celebrities that have been lined up to have their hair trimmed is a “Who’s Who of the tri-town region. The organizers have lined up the mayors of Amesbury and Newburyport and the Sheriff of Essex County along with Charlie Cullen to participate. But the star of the event will be our good friend, Charlie Cullen who has agreed to have a buzz cut administered on his head if $5000 in additional pledges from the public can be raised that will then match a $5000 pledge to the event from The Provident Bank where Charlie serves as President. The event is scheduled for this Friday, June 17, 2011 from 6 to 11, Tickets are for sale for the event at $10. For more information go to www.natebibaud.org/“help-the-cause. or to support the banks matching donation, visit www.TheProvidentBank.com .
St. Peter’s Festival Scheduled Later this Month
The annual St. Peter’s Festival will once again be held in the working seaport community of Gloucester on the weekend of June 22-26. The community of Gloucester has become a wonderful destination for visitors to this region and for the residents of the area, and the annual Fiesta is a special event that focuses on the important maritime heritage of this community. The event will begin on June 22nd with a concert at 7:00 pm at St. Peter’s Park. Other events scheduled during the Festival include a 5K Road race, the famous greasy pole contest, and boat races featuring the Coast Guard vs. the Navy and the Gloucester Fire vs. the Police Department. There will also be a prayer service and a closing procession. For more information and a detailed schedule of events visit www.stpetersfiesta.org.
Farmer’s Markets to open in June in Middleton, and Salem.
• The Farmer’s Market in Middleton will open for the 2011 season on June 22nd in the parking lot of Angelica’s restaurant on route 114 from 3 until 6 every Wednesday through the end of the growing season. The Market will feature baked goods, fresh produce orchard products and lobsters offered by 20 local vendors. For more information visit www.middletonfm@gmail.com.
• The Salem Farmer’s Market will open its third season this Thursday, June 17th from 3-7 and will run through October 20th. This year the market will include 25 vendors who will provide fresh produce and eggs from local farms. On the opening day, the Salem Market will offer music and a cooking demonstration. Last year over 44,000 people visited the Market in a 19-week season. For more information on this event, visit sfm@salemmainstreets.org.
Peabody Library Event
On Saturday, June 18, 2011. The Peabody Institute Library in the leather city and will feature a youth and teen day to celebrate the start of the summer season outside the library from 1:30 to 3:30. The event will feature a community block party that will include youth bands, teen dance crews, a temporary tattoo parlor, a photo booth, entertainment, and a martial arts demonstration. The event is free and open to all, and is designed to encourage young people to participate in a summer reading program. The event will certainly be a fun time for the youth of the city and the goal to encourage reading is a most enviable goal.
Welcome Back to Boston, Lord Stanley
The old faithful and the many new fans of the Boston Bruins were all ecstatic when the team played so exceptional on Wednesday night in Vancouver, Canada and brought the Stanley Cup back to Boston. That win means that in the last seven years the Boston professional entries have all won a national title. That professional sports Grand slam is almost an embarrassment of riches for this region. for those of you who will make the trip into Boston on Saturday to view the Stanley Cup and to applaud the team, enjoy the experience.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 12, 2011
North Shore Cancer Center Walk
North Shore Medical Center in Salem will stage the 21st edition of their most successful Cancer Center Walk and Run on Sunday June 26, 2011. The event begins and ends at Salem Willows and works their way through historic Salem. Registration that morning begins at 7:30 am and the official start time is at 8:00 am. Join with thousands of local residents who show up each year to help raise funds to fight cancer. The 2011 edition of the walk has a list of the most generous sponsors, and a list of those contributors can be found on the cancer walk web site. For more information on how you can sign up, visit the walk web site at www.NorthShoreCancerWalk.org. This spectacular regional event has raised millions to provide top-notch equipment to treat cancer patients in the region. We will not be able to walk this year, but hopefully in the not too distant future, I will able to take part in this effort again as we have done many years in the past.
In 2011, Community Over-Ride and Debt Exclusions Projects not Faring Well.
In this region north of Boston, the taxpayers seem to be speaking out against projects that will require their taxes to go up. As the projects have been presented to voters in these local communities more actions have been voted down, than have been approved. There are still several more projects to be considered locally as schools need to be built and educational and operational budgets need to be enhanced. It appears that in more cases than not, those efforts are being defeated, as voters seem to be fed up with increases. To date about half of the presented projects have been turned down.
Danvers Historical Society Annual Meeting
Earlier this week, the Danvers Historical Society held its annual meeting at the Glen Magna Estate. The attendees heard reports from President Joe Joslin, Treasurer Wayne Eisenhauer and Operations Manager Cathy Garari. The weather was sensational and during the pre-meeting reception many members of the Society, that had gathered to hear reports from the officers, were able to enjoy the famous gardens at the historic property owned and maintained by the Society. Prior to the annual meeting the largest crowd to attend the annual meeting in many years were entertained by the local choral group, Essex Harmony that are artists in residence at the Society. That group noted that their next free concert will he held in the recently refurbished Tapley Hall on Page Street during the annual Trails and Sails event sponsored by Essex Heritage. The Essex Harmony conductor and organizer, Glenn Mairo also announced that this year, an expanded holiday concert will be held in their new facility at Tapley Hall. Two new Trustees were elected at the meeting -Michael Morris and Richard Warren will bring a new vitality to the board and their council and support will be appreciated.
Interesting Find at Spaulding Construction Site
As someone who was at least peripherally involved in the building of a replica sailing ship for the Salem Maritime Historical Site, the following story, about marine planking being discovered on a construction site, certainly appealed to me. I was involved in the team that helped raise a substantial amount of private funds needed to complete the construction of the replica merchant ship that helps every day to relate the maritime history of the City of Salem to the many visitors to that historic maritime related city daily. The story that was reported in the Boston Globe today, I found most interesting. The story focused on the discovery of a fantastic supply of pristine antique southern oak that was found buried in the mud at a construction site in Charlestown. The find was uncovered at the site of a new facility being built by Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Charlestown. It is believed that the material likely dates back to about 1860 and was probably from Ohio. It was likely to have buried on the site sometime after that date and would have been used by the nearby Navy Yard to repair ships of that era.
Spaulding Hospital has agreed to donate the found “treasure” to a group in Mystic Connecticut, who are in the process of restoring the worlds only remaining wooden whaling ship. The Charles W, Morgan was originally built in New Bedford, MA. and was a floating museum until a benefactor passed away. The ship was than acquired by the group committed to its restoration. The restoration crew working on the ship was fast running out of the needed southern oak that is the material needed to accurately restore the “Morgan”. The crew restoring the ship was using materials from southern oak trees uprooted in recent hurricanes, and was not sure where the needed future material would be found. When the restoration of the “Morgan” is completed, the ship will be re-launched in 2014, and the donation of the material unearthed in Charlestown will make the dream of the restoration team a reality. The Hospital was pleased to donate their find to such a worthy project and kept a very small portion of the find and will use that material to build benches on the site to commemorate the find. A source of mine at Spaulding also advised me that in addition to the oak recovered on the excavated site a substantial cache of granite was also discovered. This is a generous gesture by the hospital and certainly is appreciated by the renovation team, and by all who have an interest in the preservation efforts that occur so regularly in this region. One can most certainly add Essex Heritage whose mission is to preserve the historical, natural and cultural resources of this region as one of those organizations that appreciates the generous gesture of the hospital.
St, John’s Prep Headmasters Event in Swampscott
I am unhappy that the weather conditions on Thursday evening kept us away from a reception in Swampscott that was held to honor the decade of service to St. John’s Prep provided by retiring Headmaster Skip Shannon and his wife MJ. Headmaster Shannon has been a dedicated and committed leader of the Danvers school and his day to day leadership will be missed dearly. The school has also “kicked” off a Headmasters Endowment Fund to continue to offer scholarship assistance to students who might not be able to attend the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored secondary school. This fund will honor the dedicated work of Dr. Shannon as well as the two previous headmasters who I worked with closely, Brothers Edward Keefe and William Drinan.
Recent Newspaper Articles
On Thursday, stories appeared in both the Salem News and the Danvers Herald that focused on the Baron Mayer award for Community Service that I will receive at the Glen Magna in Danvers on June 24, 2011. I am indebted to the two newspaper reporters Ethan Forman and Myrna Fearer. They allowed me the opportunity to provide a little background on the illness that caused me to lose my leg. I was also able to outline the philosophy that allowed me to recover. As a result of that recovery, I am now able to continue to assist a number of local organizations where I provide guidance and support. The reports they provided were most accurate and generous in their praise of my work in this region.
Boston Bruins Head Back to Vancouver
After a rousing game four win, on their home ice, the Boston professional hockey team enjoyed a raucous sendoff as they boarded buses to take them to the airport for another trans continental flight back to western Canada. The Bruins have come back from a two game deficit in the Stanley Cup final to even up the series at two games each. They are now poised, if their will to win continues unabated, to win their first Stanley Cup in nearly four decades. I suspect that the TV ratings for game five on Friday evening might rival all time sports ratings in this City.
North Shore Medical Center in Salem will stage the 21st edition of their most successful Cancer Center Walk and Run on Sunday June 26, 2011. The event begins and ends at Salem Willows and works their way through historic Salem. Registration that morning begins at 7:30 am and the official start time is at 8:00 am. Join with thousands of local residents who show up each year to help raise funds to fight cancer. The 2011 edition of the walk has a list of the most generous sponsors, and a list of those contributors can be found on the cancer walk web site. For more information on how you can sign up, visit the walk web site at www.NorthShoreCancerWalk.org. This spectacular regional event has raised millions to provide top-notch equipment to treat cancer patients in the region. We will not be able to walk this year, but hopefully in the not too distant future, I will able to take part in this effort again as we have done many years in the past.
In 2011, Community Over-Ride and Debt Exclusions Projects not Faring Well.
In this region north of Boston, the taxpayers seem to be speaking out against projects that will require their taxes to go up. As the projects have been presented to voters in these local communities more actions have been voted down, than have been approved. There are still several more projects to be considered locally as schools need to be built and educational and operational budgets need to be enhanced. It appears that in more cases than not, those efforts are being defeated, as voters seem to be fed up with increases. To date about half of the presented projects have been turned down.
Danvers Historical Society Annual Meeting
Earlier this week, the Danvers Historical Society held its annual meeting at the Glen Magna Estate. The attendees heard reports from President Joe Joslin, Treasurer Wayne Eisenhauer and Operations Manager Cathy Garari. The weather was sensational and during the pre-meeting reception many members of the Society, that had gathered to hear reports from the officers, were able to enjoy the famous gardens at the historic property owned and maintained by the Society. Prior to the annual meeting the largest crowd to attend the annual meeting in many years were entertained by the local choral group, Essex Harmony that are artists in residence at the Society. That group noted that their next free concert will he held in the recently refurbished Tapley Hall on Page Street during the annual Trails and Sails event sponsored by Essex Heritage. The Essex Harmony conductor and organizer, Glenn Mairo also announced that this year, an expanded holiday concert will be held in their new facility at Tapley Hall. Two new Trustees were elected at the meeting -Michael Morris and Richard Warren will bring a new vitality to the board and their council and support will be appreciated.
Interesting Find at Spaulding Construction Site
As someone who was at least peripherally involved in the building of a replica sailing ship for the Salem Maritime Historical Site, the following story, about marine planking being discovered on a construction site, certainly appealed to me. I was involved in the team that helped raise a substantial amount of private funds needed to complete the construction of the replica merchant ship that helps every day to relate the maritime history of the City of Salem to the many visitors to that historic maritime related city daily. The story that was reported in the Boston Globe today, I found most interesting. The story focused on the discovery of a fantastic supply of pristine antique southern oak that was found buried in the mud at a construction site in Charlestown. The find was uncovered at the site of a new facility being built by Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Charlestown. It is believed that the material likely dates back to about 1860 and was probably from Ohio. It was likely to have buried on the site sometime after that date and would have been used by the nearby Navy Yard to repair ships of that era.
Spaulding Hospital has agreed to donate the found “treasure” to a group in Mystic Connecticut, who are in the process of restoring the worlds only remaining wooden whaling ship. The Charles W, Morgan was originally built in New Bedford, MA. and was a floating museum until a benefactor passed away. The ship was than acquired by the group committed to its restoration. The restoration crew working on the ship was fast running out of the needed southern oak that is the material needed to accurately restore the “Morgan”. The crew restoring the ship was using materials from southern oak trees uprooted in recent hurricanes, and was not sure where the needed future material would be found. When the restoration of the “Morgan” is completed, the ship will be re-launched in 2014, and the donation of the material unearthed in Charlestown will make the dream of the restoration team a reality. The Hospital was pleased to donate their find to such a worthy project and kept a very small portion of the find and will use that material to build benches on the site to commemorate the find. A source of mine at Spaulding also advised me that in addition to the oak recovered on the excavated site a substantial cache of granite was also discovered. This is a generous gesture by the hospital and certainly is appreciated by the renovation team, and by all who have an interest in the preservation efforts that occur so regularly in this region. One can most certainly add Essex Heritage whose mission is to preserve the historical, natural and cultural resources of this region as one of those organizations that appreciates the generous gesture of the hospital.
St, John’s Prep Headmasters Event in Swampscott
I am unhappy that the weather conditions on Thursday evening kept us away from a reception in Swampscott that was held to honor the decade of service to St. John’s Prep provided by retiring Headmaster Skip Shannon and his wife MJ. Headmaster Shannon has been a dedicated and committed leader of the Danvers school and his day to day leadership will be missed dearly. The school has also “kicked” off a Headmasters Endowment Fund to continue to offer scholarship assistance to students who might not be able to attend the Xaverian Brothers Sponsored secondary school. This fund will honor the dedicated work of Dr. Shannon as well as the two previous headmasters who I worked with closely, Brothers Edward Keefe and William Drinan.
Recent Newspaper Articles
On Thursday, stories appeared in both the Salem News and the Danvers Herald that focused on the Baron Mayer award for Community Service that I will receive at the Glen Magna in Danvers on June 24, 2011. I am indebted to the two newspaper reporters Ethan Forman and Myrna Fearer. They allowed me the opportunity to provide a little background on the illness that caused me to lose my leg. I was also able to outline the philosophy that allowed me to recover. As a result of that recovery, I am now able to continue to assist a number of local organizations where I provide guidance and support. The reports they provided were most accurate and generous in their praise of my work in this region.
Boston Bruins Head Back to Vancouver
After a rousing game four win, on their home ice, the Boston professional hockey team enjoyed a raucous sendoff as they boarded buses to take them to the airport for another trans continental flight back to western Canada. The Bruins have come back from a two game deficit in the Stanley Cup final to even up the series at two games each. They are now poised, if their will to win continues unabated, to win their first Stanley Cup in nearly four decades. I suspect that the TV ratings for game five on Friday evening might rival all time sports ratings in this City.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 9, 2011
Salem Rotary Meeting
Today, I Attended my first weekly Salem Rotary meeting since being released from the hospital, and was pleased to find that the speaker was the new Education Director for the local NPS unit in Salem and Saugus. Maryann Zujewski, told us of a couple of new elementary school focused programs that deal with the sea. The NPS has organized a program that brings 4th graders on to both the Friendship and an actual sail on the Fame. This is a free program and this year three of the Salem elementary school 3rd grades will be able to take advantage of the program. The program was enhanced by a tom Leonard educational grant from Essex Heritage that will cover the transportation costs of getting the children to the Salem site. She also provided an overview of a second program that will allow some former Boys and Girls Club councelors who for this summer were hired as seasonal rangers to sail to New York City on the Frienship and participate in a seminar in that city with other youths. The education activities offered by the National Park Service are done in conjunction with the administration and staff at Essex Heritage. We are most proud of that association and we work hard to enhance programs offered together
Next Essex Heritage Photo Safari Scheduled
Photo Safari featuring Tamron
Saturday, June 18, 7:00AM - 12:00PM
at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
244 Central Street, Saugus, MA 01906 (map it)
Join Essex Heritage and Hunt's Photo and Video for the second Photo Safari of the Season with Tamron at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site! Photographers at all levels can expand their skills, try the latest camera equipment from Tamron, provided by Hunt's Photo & Video, and receive personal instruction from professional photographer Ken Hubbard and Hunt's technical experts as we photograph this remarkable historic site that laid the foundation for America's iron and steel industry. 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.
Town of Danvers to Offer Bonds to Complete High School Project
During the next couple of weeks the administration of the town of Danvers will meet with two bond rating agencies in advance of seeking long term funding on a bond to complete the building of the nearly $71 million high school renovation and expansion project due to be completed in 2013. Up to this point, the project has been funded with short term funding for the project that started in November 2010. The $30 million in bond funding that the Town will seek to complete this project will be the largest in that community’s history. The review process by the bond rating services will determine the rate of interest that the bonds will bear, and that cost will impact the costs of borrowing by the Town. As a member of the Town’s Finance Committee, I am reasonably certain that the rating agencies will find the Town’s finances in good order and borrowing costs will be most reasonable for the Town. The current bond rating maintained by the Town of Danvers is just below the highest offered by the bond rating agencies and is more than justified by the manner in which the town is managed. The school project is the largest ever undertaken by the Town, and financial support at 57% of the total cost of the project will be funded from the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
Salem to Offer Artist’s Row Project Again
Once again in 2011, for the eighth year, the city of Salem will present its Artists Row program during the summer season at the Salem Marketplace location in the downtown between New Derby and Front Streets. The program that is supported by City funding will provide a wide variety of local artists and craft people the opportunity to work, exhibit and sell their wares in rent free space. In exchange for the space, many of the artists present workshops and performances during the time the project is in operation. Salem’s Artist’s Row is open every Thursday, Friday and Sundays, and will remain in operation until October and is open evenings until 6.00 pm most days.
Beverly Council Race Gains Another Candidate
The local race for the City council in Beverly just became a little more interesting, as Salem’s Mayor Driscoll’s Chief of Staff Jason Silva is considering joining that race. If he completes his nomination efforts and turns in his papers he will join four other candidates in the race, and will make the race that much more competitive
City of Peabody Chooses Firm to Craft a plan to Rehab Downtown
The City has contracted with Green International Affiliates to provide services to construct plans for the Main Street Corridor Realignment Project. The planning process is a $1,5 million initiative to change the design of Main Street in the City center to make changes to improve safety, traffic flow and cosmetic changes that will improve that important stretch of roadway in this region. The final plans will include safer pedestrian crossing procedures, planters and turning lanes to improve traffic flow. These changes when completed will certainly improve the section of Main Street from the Square to Holley Street, and will make it safer section of the city to traverse and will improve the flow of traffic through that very busy section of the City of Peabody.
Music by the Water in Lynn
For the third year in a row, Lynn’s World Folk Festival will be offered at Lynn Heritage State Park in Lynn on the Lynnway. The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 11, 2011 and the entertainment will be offered from noon until 8;00 that evening. The event has been organized by the Friends of Heritage State Park. The friends group is non -profit organization committed to creating programs that will bring attention to the facility that opens the waterfront to Lynn residents. The Festival on June 11th is free and will include musical groups from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds including Khmer dancers, Haitian and Caribbean bands. in addition, ethnic foods will be sold. For more information contact David Gass AT 781-595-8701, or at dagass11verizon.net. Lynn’s Heritage State Park is a hidden gem along Lynn’s Little used waster front. Several years ago, Essex Heritage with the cooperation of the neighboring North Shore Community College brought the National park Service’s replica sailing ship Friendship to the park for a multiple day visit, and we were most gratified by the crowds that visited the park and the ship. We all hope that the music by the Sea and the Festival will bring a large number of residents and visitors to the site. On a warm summer day, there can be No nicer spot to enjoy a day of music and cultural and ethnic experiences with a view of the ocean and the soft summer breezes than the Lynn Heritage State Park in Lynn. The site is a wonderful asset in that community, and we encourage more people to discover the location and all that it has to offer.
Town Manager Rees of North Andover Submits Resignation.
After a decade of serving the Town of North Andover, as Town Manager, Mark Rees has submitted his resignation in order to accept the position of City Manager of the City of Portland, Maine, That appointment by the Portland City Council is due to be confirmed this week. During the ten years that Mark Rees served the North Andover community, Essex Heritage enjoyed many positive interactions with him in his administrative capacity. His services will certainly be missed by the residents of North Andover and the region That community’s loss will certainly be matched by the gain that will be experienced by our northern neighbors largest city. The City of Portland has experienced a wonderful revival during the past decade, and the new City Manager will have a wonderful opportunity to continue the progress of that large Maine city. We will follow the process of replacing Rees in North Andover and will report on that process as it develops. We offer our best wishes to Mark Rees and wish him all the best as he takes on this new challenge in his professional life.
Today, I Attended my first weekly Salem Rotary meeting since being released from the hospital, and was pleased to find that the speaker was the new Education Director for the local NPS unit in Salem and Saugus. Maryann Zujewski, told us of a couple of new elementary school focused programs that deal with the sea. The NPS has organized a program that brings 4th graders on to both the Friendship and an actual sail on the Fame. This is a free program and this year three of the Salem elementary school 3rd grades will be able to take advantage of the program. The program was enhanced by a tom Leonard educational grant from Essex Heritage that will cover the transportation costs of getting the children to the Salem site. She also provided an overview of a second program that will allow some former Boys and Girls Club councelors who for this summer were hired as seasonal rangers to sail to New York City on the Frienship and participate in a seminar in that city with other youths. The education activities offered by the National Park Service are done in conjunction with the administration and staff at Essex Heritage. We are most proud of that association and we work hard to enhance programs offered together
Next Essex Heritage Photo Safari Scheduled
Photo Safari featuring Tamron
Saturday, June 18, 7:00AM - 12:00PM
at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
244 Central Street, Saugus, MA 01906 (map it)
Join Essex Heritage and Hunt's Photo and Video for the second Photo Safari of the Season with Tamron at Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site! Photographers at all levels can expand their skills, try the latest camera equipment from Tamron, provided by Hunt's Photo & Video, and receive personal instruction from professional photographer Ken Hubbard and Hunt's technical experts as we photograph this remarkable historic site that laid the foundation for America's iron and steel industry. 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.
Town of Danvers to Offer Bonds to Complete High School Project
During the next couple of weeks the administration of the town of Danvers will meet with two bond rating agencies in advance of seeking long term funding on a bond to complete the building of the nearly $71 million high school renovation and expansion project due to be completed in 2013. Up to this point, the project has been funded with short term funding for the project that started in November 2010. The $30 million in bond funding that the Town will seek to complete this project will be the largest in that community’s history. The review process by the bond rating services will determine the rate of interest that the bonds will bear, and that cost will impact the costs of borrowing by the Town. As a member of the Town’s Finance Committee, I am reasonably certain that the rating agencies will find the Town’s finances in good order and borrowing costs will be most reasonable for the Town. The current bond rating maintained by the Town of Danvers is just below the highest offered by the bond rating agencies and is more than justified by the manner in which the town is managed. The school project is the largest ever undertaken by the Town, and financial support at 57% of the total cost of the project will be funded from the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
Salem to Offer Artist’s Row Project Again
Once again in 2011, for the eighth year, the city of Salem will present its Artists Row program during the summer season at the Salem Marketplace location in the downtown between New Derby and Front Streets. The program that is supported by City funding will provide a wide variety of local artists and craft people the opportunity to work, exhibit and sell their wares in rent free space. In exchange for the space, many of the artists present workshops and performances during the time the project is in operation. Salem’s Artist’s Row is open every Thursday, Friday and Sundays, and will remain in operation until October and is open evenings until 6.00 pm most days.
Beverly Council Race Gains Another Candidate
The local race for the City council in Beverly just became a little more interesting, as Salem’s Mayor Driscoll’s Chief of Staff Jason Silva is considering joining that race. If he completes his nomination efforts and turns in his papers he will join four other candidates in the race, and will make the race that much more competitive
City of Peabody Chooses Firm to Craft a plan to Rehab Downtown
The City has contracted with Green International Affiliates to provide services to construct plans for the Main Street Corridor Realignment Project. The planning process is a $1,5 million initiative to change the design of Main Street in the City center to make changes to improve safety, traffic flow and cosmetic changes that will improve that important stretch of roadway in this region. The final plans will include safer pedestrian crossing procedures, planters and turning lanes to improve traffic flow. These changes when completed will certainly improve the section of Main Street from the Square to Holley Street, and will make it safer section of the city to traverse and will improve the flow of traffic through that very busy section of the City of Peabody.
Music by the Water in Lynn
For the third year in a row, Lynn’s World Folk Festival will be offered at Lynn Heritage State Park in Lynn on the Lynnway. The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 11, 2011 and the entertainment will be offered from noon until 8;00 that evening. The event has been organized by the Friends of Heritage State Park. The friends group is non -profit organization committed to creating programs that will bring attention to the facility that opens the waterfront to Lynn residents. The Festival on June 11th is free and will include musical groups from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds including Khmer dancers, Haitian and Caribbean bands. in addition, ethnic foods will be sold. For more information contact David Gass AT 781-595-8701, or at dagass11verizon.net. Lynn’s Heritage State Park is a hidden gem along Lynn’s Little used waster front. Several years ago, Essex Heritage with the cooperation of the neighboring North Shore Community College brought the National park Service’s replica sailing ship Friendship to the park for a multiple day visit, and we were most gratified by the crowds that visited the park and the ship. We all hope that the music by the Sea and the Festival will bring a large number of residents and visitors to the site. On a warm summer day, there can be No nicer spot to enjoy a day of music and cultural and ethnic experiences with a view of the ocean and the soft summer breezes than the Lynn Heritage State Park in Lynn. The site is a wonderful asset in that community, and we encourage more people to discover the location and all that it has to offer.
Town Manager Rees of North Andover Submits Resignation.
After a decade of serving the Town of North Andover, as Town Manager, Mark Rees has submitted his resignation in order to accept the position of City Manager of the City of Portland, Maine, That appointment by the Portland City Council is due to be confirmed this week. During the ten years that Mark Rees served the North Andover community, Essex Heritage enjoyed many positive interactions with him in his administrative capacity. His services will certainly be missed by the residents of North Andover and the region That community’s loss will certainly be matched by the gain that will be experienced by our northern neighbors largest city. The City of Portland has experienced a wonderful revival during the past decade, and the new City Manager will have a wonderful opportunity to continue the progress of that large Maine city. We will follow the process of replacing Rees in North Andover and will report on that process as it develops. We offer our best wishes to Mark Rees and wish him all the best as he takes on this new challenge in his professional life.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JUNE 2, 2011
Essex Heritage Development Committee Meets to Review Heritage Hero Event and Other Issues.
The final financial results of the Heritage Hero events were most positive, and that will a great benefit for the programs we offer, The committee ales spent some time pre-planning for the 2012 event that is now established as the primary fund raising event for Essex Heritage. A date was also set for the Essex Heritage annual meeting, put October xx on your calendar, and as soon as we establish a location for the meeting we will publish that information. The group also spent some of the meeting discussing several ideas about an event to be scheduled to offer the thanks of Essex Heritage to the dozens of corporate partners that has joined our corporate membership program. The type and location of the event is still under discussion, but the date has been set for September 14, 2011. More information to come as plans are finalized.
Winter Island Plans
The City of Salem has completed the planning process as it moves to improve the Winter Island site that was for many years a Coast Guard base during the war years and then served to protect the boating public along the southern North Shore Coast as boating interests expanded in this region. The City, for many years, has been contemplating how the site could be used more effectively as a recreational asset for the residents of Salem. In the past there has been some use of the site by recreational vehicles and an occasional concert was staged on the site. The recently announced plans now call for the creation of a permanent amphitheatre and performance stage for concerts. The plans also call for the creation of a walkway around the site with benches and improved lighting. The city also intends to restore the historic fort on the site, and that could also be an attraction for visitors to the city. If the plans can be turned into reality there will be another wonderful venue in the coastal community where views of the Atlantic can be found.
Land Sale in Hamilton/Wenham Finalized
The Towns of Hamilton and Wenham, recently completed the purchase of over fifty acres of land from the Donovan Family trust. The purchase of the land that will be used to maintain open space and for recreational purposes was obtained after a Hamilton Town Meeting last fall approved spending $733,000 from the Town’s Community Preservation Act Fund. The land includes forested lands and fields used for multiple sports by the community’s recreational Department. There is even the possibility that the fields could be used in the future by the Hamilton-Wenham school department, if in the future freshman sports are reinstated by the school district. The Town was assisted in this transaction by The Essex County Greenbelt Association, an Essex County land conservation group, that helped to create the agreement between the Town that owns and manages the property, the Donovan family Trust, the Hamilton-Wenham Open Land Trust that holds a conservation restriction, and the Essex County Trails Association that will hold an easement on a recreational trail that runs through the property. This was a complicated transaction but was most certainly positive for the two communities, the region and the two land conservation organizations.
Congressman Tierney, Recognizes Small Business Week in Newburyport
Congressman John Tierney marked the importance of small businesses to the region, and the observance of small business week by vesting three businesses in the City of Newburyport. The Congressman helped cut a ribbon at a new operation at the Clean Tech Center in that community. He helped celebrate the opening of Muzzy Lane software that creates strategy games to teach history, science, language, heath, business and urban planning. The Clean Tech Center where the new software company is located is a 30,000 square foot complex in the city’s Lord Timothy Dexter Industrial Green that offers space to sustainable startups and prototype development and product manufacturing businesses. The Congressman used the visit to bring attention to small businesses as one of the primary drivers of new job creation, that are so critical to the economic health of communities like Newburyport and the other communities in this region.
FY 12 Fiscal Budget Hearing in Gloucester
Earlier this week the Gloucester City Council held a public hearing to discuss the budget that totals $87.6 million submitted for approval by Mayor Carolyn Kirk includes a provision to for cutting 76 full and part time positions from the City and School payrolls. The deadline for the approval of a new budget in July 1, 2011, the start of the new fiscal year. It is expected that the public hearing will be contentious as job cuts always attract the interest of the voters, but the Mayor must present a balanced budget to the Council for approval and with revenues lower than in the past, the job reduction action, is the step the Mayor has picked to produce the balanced budget required by law.
Both Salem and Peabody Searching for School Leadership
The two neighboring communities of Peabody and Salem are both in a search for a new superintendents to lead their respective school systems. Both communities will hold public hearing to allow for voter and parental input. The general call in Salem seems to be to find a leader who has Salem roots and will likely stay in the position long term. This year, the number of school leadership resignations has exacerbated by a change in the rules for retirements of school superintendents.
Boston Bruins to Open Stanley Cup Series in Canada
On Wednesday evening the Boston Bruins opened the final hockey series of this season against the Vancouver Canuks. The Boston entry lost a tough decision in the final minute of the first game, but the team is resilient and hopefully they can bounce back in game two on Saturday. The winner of this best of seven game series will claim the 2012 Stanley Cup, the oldest trophy competed for in North America. The Bruins are the Boston professional sports team that has been the longest without a championship. The last time they held the title was nearly four decades ago in 1972. The 1972 Bruins team that was led by Bobby Orr, captured the hearts of fans in the region with that win, began a period of youth hockey expansion and the building of many new rinks in this region. This present Bruins team can have A similar impact on the region by winning the cup this year. I have personally been a hockey fan since those wonderful days of Bobby Orr and the Big, Bad Bruins, and remain hopeful that the 2012 team can once again bring home a title to the region, as the Patriots, Celtics and Red Sox have already done this decade.
Tornadoes Destroy Communities in the Western Part of the State
The TV video and reports on the devastation in the communities west of Worcester are unbelievable. I do not suspect that there any readers of this effort that live in those areas, but regardless we all offer our thoughts and prayers in these difficult times. We can only hope that help is prompt and provides some level of relief in the very near term..
The final financial results of the Heritage Hero events were most positive, and that will a great benefit for the programs we offer, The committee ales spent some time pre-planning for the 2012 event that is now established as the primary fund raising event for Essex Heritage. A date was also set for the Essex Heritage annual meeting, put October xx on your calendar, and as soon as we establish a location for the meeting we will publish that information. The group also spent some of the meeting discussing several ideas about an event to be scheduled to offer the thanks of Essex Heritage to the dozens of corporate partners that has joined our corporate membership program. The type and location of the event is still under discussion, but the date has been set for September 14, 2011. More information to come as plans are finalized.
Winter Island Plans
The City of Salem has completed the planning process as it moves to improve the Winter Island site that was for many years a Coast Guard base during the war years and then served to protect the boating public along the southern North Shore Coast as boating interests expanded in this region. The City, for many years, has been contemplating how the site could be used more effectively as a recreational asset for the residents of Salem. In the past there has been some use of the site by recreational vehicles and an occasional concert was staged on the site. The recently announced plans now call for the creation of a permanent amphitheatre and performance stage for concerts. The plans also call for the creation of a walkway around the site with benches and improved lighting. The city also intends to restore the historic fort on the site, and that could also be an attraction for visitors to the city. If the plans can be turned into reality there will be another wonderful venue in the coastal community where views of the Atlantic can be found.
Land Sale in Hamilton/Wenham Finalized
The Towns of Hamilton and Wenham, recently completed the purchase of over fifty acres of land from the Donovan Family trust. The purchase of the land that will be used to maintain open space and for recreational purposes was obtained after a Hamilton Town Meeting last fall approved spending $733,000 from the Town’s Community Preservation Act Fund. The land includes forested lands and fields used for multiple sports by the community’s recreational Department. There is even the possibility that the fields could be used in the future by the Hamilton-Wenham school department, if in the future freshman sports are reinstated by the school district. The Town was assisted in this transaction by The Essex County Greenbelt Association, an Essex County land conservation group, that helped to create the agreement between the Town that owns and manages the property, the Donovan family Trust, the Hamilton-Wenham Open Land Trust that holds a conservation restriction, and the Essex County Trails Association that will hold an easement on a recreational trail that runs through the property. This was a complicated transaction but was most certainly positive for the two communities, the region and the two land conservation organizations.
Congressman Tierney, Recognizes Small Business Week in Newburyport
Congressman John Tierney marked the importance of small businesses to the region, and the observance of small business week by vesting three businesses in the City of Newburyport. The Congressman helped cut a ribbon at a new operation at the Clean Tech Center in that community. He helped celebrate the opening of Muzzy Lane software that creates strategy games to teach history, science, language, heath, business and urban planning. The Clean Tech Center where the new software company is located is a 30,000 square foot complex in the city’s Lord Timothy Dexter Industrial Green that offers space to sustainable startups and prototype development and product manufacturing businesses. The Congressman used the visit to bring attention to small businesses as one of the primary drivers of new job creation, that are so critical to the economic health of communities like Newburyport and the other communities in this region.
FY 12 Fiscal Budget Hearing in Gloucester
Earlier this week the Gloucester City Council held a public hearing to discuss the budget that totals $87.6 million submitted for approval by Mayor Carolyn Kirk includes a provision to for cutting 76 full and part time positions from the City and School payrolls. The deadline for the approval of a new budget in July 1, 2011, the start of the new fiscal year. It is expected that the public hearing will be contentious as job cuts always attract the interest of the voters, but the Mayor must present a balanced budget to the Council for approval and with revenues lower than in the past, the job reduction action, is the step the Mayor has picked to produce the balanced budget required by law.
Both Salem and Peabody Searching for School Leadership
The two neighboring communities of Peabody and Salem are both in a search for a new superintendents to lead their respective school systems. Both communities will hold public hearing to allow for voter and parental input. The general call in Salem seems to be to find a leader who has Salem roots and will likely stay in the position long term. This year, the number of school leadership resignations has exacerbated by a change in the rules for retirements of school superintendents.
Boston Bruins to Open Stanley Cup Series in Canada
On Wednesday evening the Boston Bruins opened the final hockey series of this season against the Vancouver Canuks. The Boston entry lost a tough decision in the final minute of the first game, but the team is resilient and hopefully they can bounce back in game two on Saturday. The winner of this best of seven game series will claim the 2012 Stanley Cup, the oldest trophy competed for in North America. The Bruins are the Boston professional sports team that has been the longest without a championship. The last time they held the title was nearly four decades ago in 1972. The 1972 Bruins team that was led by Bobby Orr, captured the hearts of fans in the region with that win, began a period of youth hockey expansion and the building of many new rinks in this region. This present Bruins team can have A similar impact on the region by winning the cup this year. I have personally been a hockey fan since those wonderful days of Bobby Orr and the Big, Bad Bruins, and remain hopeful that the 2012 team can once again bring home a title to the region, as the Patriots, Celtics and Red Sox have already done this decade.
Tornadoes Destroy Communities in the Western Part of the State
The TV video and reports on the devastation in the communities west of Worcester are unbelievable. I do not suspect that there any readers of this effort that live in those areas, but regardless we all offer our thoughts and prayers in these difficult times. We can only hope that help is prompt and provides some level of relief in the very near term..
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