Recent Pleasant Return Visit to North Shore Music Theatre
For a number of years in the previous life of the North Shore Music Theatre, my wife and I, along with other friends were Season Ticket holders at the Theatre until it folded its operation a couple of years ago. I was later pleased to learn that a new owner had come along to financially rescue one of the North Shore’s most important cultural resources. Keeping that premier cultural resource open for the region was an important commitment and the effort seems to have paid off as it appears that the current season’s attendance has been better than anticipated. Even though I was pleased to hear of the acquisition of the facility by Bill Hanney, who had a wonderful track record in running entertainment facilities, I still had an uncomfortable feeling about the way the theatre was closed and the fact that my season deposit was never refunded. That feeling kept me away from the theatre until a recent weekend, when through my relationship as a member of the Board of Directors with the North Shore Elder Services, I was offered complimentary tickets to view the current show at the Theatre, Tarzan. We truly enjoyed an entertaining presentation by a talented group of performers and we were particularly impressed by the physical condition of the facility and will now plan to attend another presentation at North Shore Music Theatre in the future. The accommodations offered for folks with handicaps were particularly splendid and were much appreciated.
North Shore Elder Services, that serves thousands of seniors in this region has entered into a new relationship with the theatre and has secured the entire facility for a major fundraising effort that is scheduled to be offered on May 6, 2012. At that time, the North Shore Elder Services will offer a presentation by Lorretta Laroche. Stress Manager, motivational speaker, author and humorist as a major effort to raise funds to support their many fine programs. In the near term, as we get closer to the date of the event, we will provide more information on how you can support this program and the work of North Shore Elder Services. But for now, we ask you to consider saving the date on your calendar for an entertaining evening while supporting a wonderful cause.
North Shore Elder Services has also teamed up with North Shore Music Theatre to participate with the Theatre for a non-profit night on October 31, 2011 when a presentation of the King and I. This evening has been designated to help those organizations and a portion of the ticket receipts purchased will be contributed to the local organizations. Tickets for just the show itself can be purchased for only $50 each and if you were so inclined a special reception before the show ticket can be purchased for an extra $25. Tickets are available now and can be obtained at the North Shore Music Theatre box office at www.nsmt.org or by calling 978 232 7200 and mention promo code NSES.
Economy of the Town of Rockport Improving
At one of the geographic ends of the Essex National Heritage Commission is the Town of Rockport. For many years the Cape Ann community, long thought of a great mid summer destination, is moving itself towards becoming a year round destination. Classical music at a wonderful new facility and new dining opportunities are helping to drive that strategy. For years, the community, by the water, lured summer visitors to its ocean front locations and summer vistas like Motif # 1. These substantial changes will now hopefully attract visitors and residents of the region all through the year. One of the most substantial of the changes was the creation of the 330 seat Shalin Liu Concert Hall that was originally created to be the home for the Rockport Chamber Music Festival. This summer alone the Concert Hall projects to attract 25,000 classical music fans to the site after the concert series last year drew just in excess of 11,000 patrons. In the Spring of 2011, Essex Heritage was invited to use the Shalin Liu facility for our annual meeting and was very clear to anyone that attended that event that Rockport had a new attraction that would be a natural draw for visitors and area residents and that assessment has proved to be correct. The Concert Hall has hosted classical and music concerts, simulcasts, from the Metropolitan Opera and many free community events. Annual attendance at this facility will grow as more and more music patrons hear of its sensational acoustics and comfortable surroundings.
The oceanfront community has also benefited by a decision made this year by the town that now allows alcohol to be served under certain conditions and that has attracted several new restaurants to open, visitors are coming to the town to enjoy dinning and a number of retail stores offering maritime related material. All in all it appears that the economy of the community will be much better balanced and visitation will increase as more people consider visiting off-season. These improved economic conditions will certainly help the entire region of Cape Ann and the entire region served by Essex Heritage.
Rockport Awards
Staying in the granite city of Rockport, for one last item of note. The Rockport Rotary Club has named long term member Frank Hassler, the chairman of the Town’s Finance Committee, their Citizen of the Year. The club also named Chuck Osmand a foreman in the Town’s Public Works Department their Town, Employee of the Year.
Essex Heritage Web Site
One of the most informative and easiest to navigate web sites on the internet is the Essex Heritage web site found at www.essexheritsge.org. I would encourage all of you to periodically visit this site that provides timely information about events happening in the region and it provides reports on the activities of the Commission. If you are expecting family or friends as visitors to this region, please visit the web site as specific excursions that may be of interest to them and you, can be found on the site complete with itenaries and directions. You would be well served to visit the site on a regular basis, as we post information regularly that you might find informative and interesting.
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Speaking of web sites, I am participating with the local Salem hospital, that was instrumental in my rehabilitation, has asked me to work with them to create a video for their web site that would focus on my success becoming active again after the amputation of my leg. I am pleased to be helping them out as I will always be indebted to the Hospital and their team of therapists, nurses and other medical staff who were so helpful to me during my recuperation.
Patriots make a splash in free agency
The two recent signings by the Patriots could have an impact on the upcoming season.. both players come with some personal baggage, but as in the past, maybe they can get their football act together here in New England
Friday, July 29, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JULY 26, 2011
Essex Heritage to Host Informational Event
In the early evening on September 14, 2011, ENHC will host a social and informational seminar at the National Park Service Visitor Center in Salem. The event that will focus on thanking current corporate supporters will also provide information to any other corporate entities in the region who might have an inclination to offer support to this regional effort that has an impact on the economic viability of the region. The event will be hosted by the energetic Essex Heritage Development Committee who along with current corporate supporters will be in attendance to answer questions and to outline the participation in regional initiatives that have an impact on the quality of life in this region. For more information about the event or to make a reservation to attend contact Deb Payson at www.essexheritage.org.
Marblehead Looks to Restore Historic Cemeteries
The Town of Marblehead was recently awarded an $11,000 matching grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to help fund a project to help restore headstones in the historic Old Burial Ground, the Town Owned Cemetery. Much of the matching funds needed have been provided through a series of private donations. The project will focus on the restoration of some of the oldest and most fragile stones. This is a most important project and our local cemeteries are some of our most treasured historical resources in the region, and certainly require attention to be preserved for future generations.
Lyceum Restaurant in Salem to Close.
It was truly sad news to hear that one of my favorite restaurant owners, George Harrington will be closing the Lyceum Restaurant in Salem at the end of July and will be moving to a new phase of his career. The Lyceum was one of the very first projects undertaken in Salem when redevelopment of the city became the watchword. Salem Five provided the initial funding to the original owners, and over the years we have spent many pleasant evenings in that establishment. We understand that the restaurant will reopen soon under new ownership that may include George’s expertise in a limited capacity, and that will be a plus for the new restaurant.
Northeast Health System to merge with Lahey Clinic
Ending months of speculation about potential partners, the board of Northeast Health System, the operator of Beverly Hospital, has voted to merge with Lahey Clinic under a new parent organization. The new merged hospital will offer 675 beds, 110 Doctors and 10,000 total employees to this region, and will provide another alternative the Partners Health Care facilities in the area.
The new parent organization will establish a board including an equal number of representatives selected from the Northeast board and Lahey Clinic Foundation board. Additional board members, unaffiliated with neither organization, will be selected from the community. The new organization will be called the Lahey Health System, and will be led by Dr Howard Grant, the current president and CEO of Lahey Clinic
“Lahey Clinic and Northeast Health will make a great health care team,” Grant said in a statement. “This is a historic moment – two superb organizations aligning to create an even stronger integrated health care delivery system. Together, we will provide greater value to patients by enhancing the scope and quality of services that can be delivered to patients in their own communities.”
In January, Northeast announced it would seek out various potential partnerships to set up a new integrated system of care that would serve a larger population at a lower cost. As recently as last month, Northeast officials reportedly said they would delay a merger decision until September.
Northeast executives said they evaluated proposals from four different health care organizations before determining that an affiliation with Lahey Clinic provided the best opportunity for NHS to create an exceptional health care delivery system of high-quality, cost-efficient, community-based care in northeastern Massachusetts; one that is capable of managing patient care in accordance with changing community needs and new payment and health care delivery systems.”
Northeast Health Systems includes Beverly Hospital, Addison Gilbert Hospital, Bay Ridge Hospital, Beverly Hospital at Danvers, Northeast Medical Practice, Northeast Behavioral Health and Northeast Senior Health.
Lahey executives said the regulatory process governing the merger could take several months and that public forums are planned to explain the partnership to patients
Photo Safari featuring Canon
Saturday, July 30th
at Historic New England’s Phillips House
34 Chestnut Street Salem, MA 01970 (map it)
Register · 8 AM – 12 PM
Register · 1 PM – 5 PM *PM session just added!
Don’t miss your chance to attend a Photo Safari this summer! Essex Heritage and Hunt’s Photo and Video will present the last Photo Safari of the summer with Canon at Historic New England’s Phillips House, in the heart of Salem’s McIntire Historic District. With a state-of-the-art digital camera in hand, photographers at all levels can expand their skills, try the latest camera equipment from Canon, provided by Hunt’s Photo and Video, and receive personal instruction from professional photographer Barbara Ellison and Hunt’s technical experts. Join us as we photograph the gardens at the Phillips House and capture the distinctive architecture of historic Salem! 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 thanks Destination Salem for providing additional sponsorship support for this photo safari.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The following organizational and marketing information is provided as in the next several weeks collaborative initiatives will be undertaken regionally to begin to promote this important Essex Heritage managed program that will have substantial impact on many communities, businesses and organizations in the region.
The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway is a partnership initiative of the Essex National Heritage Commission, the congressionally designated manager of the Essex National Heritage Area (Essex County).
The byway's 13 communities and numerous stakeholders are working together to leverage its heritage and human resources to generate economic and quality of life benefits for the region.
Please contact Bill Steelman at (978) 740-0444 or bills@essexheritage.org with any questions or comments about the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and how you might participate.
NFL Lock out Settlement and US debt Ceiling Discussions dominates the News
I am not certain which of the two issues noted above is the most dominate issue in the recent news reports. As a long time football fan, we are pleased that, the owners and the players have come together and completed an agreement and professional football can begin again soon. As far as the debt ceiling issue, it is the more critical discussion and we can only hope that before the clock runs out the leadership in Washington can agree on a solution and come together to avoid some level of financial disruption that could effect all of our financial affairs..
In the early evening on September 14, 2011, ENHC will host a social and informational seminar at the National Park Service Visitor Center in Salem. The event that will focus on thanking current corporate supporters will also provide information to any other corporate entities in the region who might have an inclination to offer support to this regional effort that has an impact on the economic viability of the region. The event will be hosted by the energetic Essex Heritage Development Committee who along with current corporate supporters will be in attendance to answer questions and to outline the participation in regional initiatives that have an impact on the quality of life in this region. For more information about the event or to make a reservation to attend contact Deb Payson at www.essexheritage.org.
Marblehead Looks to Restore Historic Cemeteries
The Town of Marblehead was recently awarded an $11,000 matching grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission to help fund a project to help restore headstones in the historic Old Burial Ground, the Town Owned Cemetery. Much of the matching funds needed have been provided through a series of private donations. The project will focus on the restoration of some of the oldest and most fragile stones. This is a most important project and our local cemeteries are some of our most treasured historical resources in the region, and certainly require attention to be preserved for future generations.
Lyceum Restaurant in Salem to Close.
It was truly sad news to hear that one of my favorite restaurant owners, George Harrington will be closing the Lyceum Restaurant in Salem at the end of July and will be moving to a new phase of his career. The Lyceum was one of the very first projects undertaken in Salem when redevelopment of the city became the watchword. Salem Five provided the initial funding to the original owners, and over the years we have spent many pleasant evenings in that establishment. We understand that the restaurant will reopen soon under new ownership that may include George’s expertise in a limited capacity, and that will be a plus for the new restaurant.
Northeast Health System to merge with Lahey Clinic
Ending months of speculation about potential partners, the board of Northeast Health System, the operator of Beverly Hospital, has voted to merge with Lahey Clinic under a new parent organization. The new merged hospital will offer 675 beds, 110 Doctors and 10,000 total employees to this region, and will provide another alternative the Partners Health Care facilities in the area.
The new parent organization will establish a board including an equal number of representatives selected from the Northeast board and Lahey Clinic Foundation board. Additional board members, unaffiliated with neither organization, will be selected from the community. The new organization will be called the Lahey Health System, and will be led by Dr Howard Grant, the current president and CEO of Lahey Clinic
“Lahey Clinic and Northeast Health will make a great health care team,” Grant said in a statement. “This is a historic moment – two superb organizations aligning to create an even stronger integrated health care delivery system. Together, we will provide greater value to patients by enhancing the scope and quality of services that can be delivered to patients in their own communities.”
In January, Northeast announced it would seek out various potential partnerships to set up a new integrated system of care that would serve a larger population at a lower cost. As recently as last month, Northeast officials reportedly said they would delay a merger decision until September.
Northeast executives said they evaluated proposals from four different health care organizations before determining that an affiliation with Lahey Clinic provided the best opportunity for NHS to create an exceptional health care delivery system of high-quality, cost-efficient, community-based care in northeastern Massachusetts; one that is capable of managing patient care in accordance with changing community needs and new payment and health care delivery systems.”
Northeast Health Systems includes Beverly Hospital, Addison Gilbert Hospital, Bay Ridge Hospital, Beverly Hospital at Danvers, Northeast Medical Practice, Northeast Behavioral Health and Northeast Senior Health.
Lahey executives said the regulatory process governing the merger could take several months and that public forums are planned to explain the partnership to patients
Photo Safari featuring Canon
Saturday, July 30th
at Historic New England’s Phillips House
34 Chestnut Street Salem, MA 01970 (map it)
Register · 8 AM – 12 PM
Register · 1 PM – 5 PM *PM session just added!
Don’t miss your chance to attend a Photo Safari this summer! Essex Heritage and Hunt’s Photo and Video will present the last Photo Safari of the summer with Canon at Historic New England’s Phillips House, in the heart of Salem’s McIntire Historic District. With a state-of-the-art digital camera in hand, photographers at all levels can expand their skills, try the latest camera equipment from Canon, provided by Hunt’s Photo and Video, and receive personal instruction from professional photographer Barbara Ellison and Hunt’s technical experts. Join us as we photograph the gardens at the Phillips House and capture the distinctive architecture of historic Salem! 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 thanks Destination Salem for providing additional sponsorship support for this photo safari.
Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The following organizational and marketing information is provided as in the next several weeks collaborative initiatives will be undertaken regionally to begin to promote this important Essex Heritage managed program that will have substantial impact on many communities, businesses and organizations in the region.
The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway is a partnership initiative of the Essex National Heritage Commission, the congressionally designated manager of the Essex National Heritage Area (Essex County).
The byway's 13 communities and numerous stakeholders are working together to leverage its heritage and human resources to generate economic and quality of life benefits for the region.
Please contact Bill Steelman at (978) 740-0444 or bills@essexheritage.org with any questions or comments about the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and how you might participate.
NFL Lock out Settlement and US debt Ceiling Discussions dominates the News
I am not certain which of the two issues noted above is the most dominate issue in the recent news reports. As a long time football fan, we are pleased that, the owners and the players have come together and completed an agreement and professional football can begin again soon. As far as the debt ceiling issue, it is the more critical discussion and we can only hope that before the clock runs out the leadership in Washington can agree on a solution and come together to avoid some level of financial disruption that could effect all of our financial affairs..
Friday, July 22, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JULY 22, 2011
Partnership Grant Spotlight
East Parish Meeting House Report Completed Using a 2010 Essex Heritage Partnership Grant
The East Parish Meeting House
Society recently completed a historic structures report for the East Parish Meeting House in Haverhill. Written by consultant Peter Rudd of Elemental Designs, Inc., the report will help the society better assess and plan for the building's long term preservation.
Built in 1838 and worshipped in by the poet John Greenleaf Whittier, the small, quintessential former New England church structure is one of only seven original meeting houses remaining in Massachusetts. In 2010, faced with an uncertain future and in need of significant repair and restoration, the meeting house was named one of the most endangered historic resources in the state by Preservation Massachusetts, the statewide, nonprofit historic preservation organization. Read more (pdf).
SwampWalk Open House Celebration @ George's home, 37 Longbow Road, Saturday afternoon, July 23, noon-3PM
Beat the heat this Saturday.
Enjoy the air-conditioned showing of the 'SwampWalk Slide Show' running on a 52" HDTV & 9-speaker home theater system:
Salem Bike Path
The City of Salem has taken a big step to make that city more receptive to bike riders. The city has recently completed a striping project that now identifies a 4.8 mile bike lane that will allow a north-south transit from the Marblehead town line to Winter Island Park in the witch city. The identified lane creates a designated space for bike riders to travel safely through the city sharing the roads with other vehicular traffic. The new lane also connects to three or four existing Salem bike paths, so the effect adds even more continuous space to ride in the city. The city continues to plan for additional bike improvements in the city and recently added over fifty bike racks in the downtown to help solve the “where do I park my bike issue.” The bike lane will hopefully point out to other traffic that the streets now need to be shared. The new bike initiative will allow these visitors to stop at several parks, open spaces, schools and beaches. Another important by-product of this new initiative might get a few more cars off Salem streets and that would have a positive impact on a city already crowded by cars. When one considers the bike path improvements made in Peabody and the continuing improvements being provided in Danvers and other local communities, this region is fast becoming a mecca for bike riders. One only had to ride through local communities on last Sunday when a charity event, starting in Lynnfield and continued to Gloucester, called Reids Ride brought out local bike riders who were all over local roads. Essex Heritage has been a primary supporter of bike paths and cycling through its administration and management of the Border to Boston bike path initiative that would allow one to ultimately ride from the North Shore into New Hampshire. So, in addition to helping get some fume producing vehicles off the local roads, we might be contributing to a healthier and better conditioned population.
Farmers Market Opens in Peabody
It certainly appears to me, that every time we post to this Blog, we have another announcement about a farmers market opening. This week is no exception as we see that last week the City of Peabody opened its market for the ninth consecutive year. This market, for some unknown reason, has not been as popular as others in the region. We hope that this year will bring new activity to this important community. The Peabody market will be open every Tuesday from 1-6 until mid October and will operate along Railroad Avenue adjacent to the Little Depot Diner off Central Street and behind the County Courthouse. This year, on a trial basis to enhance the effort, the City will also operate a second market on Saturdays in the Courtyard of the Peabody Institute Library starting on August 13th through September 17th from 9 to 1. The event will include entertainment as well as the usual produce found at traditional Farmers Markets. Providing support to these markets that are offered in numerous communities around the region serves many purposes. Not only are consumers able to access healthy locally grown produce, participation provides substantial economic support to the agricultural element of this region, but that continuing support provides incentive for local farmers to keep farming and helps to preserve hundreds of acres of open space in this region. The viability of local farms will help preserve the look and feel of this region that helps make the region what it has been for centuries.
Salem to Repair Pedestrian Mall
One of the most talked about assets in the City of Salem is its pedestrian mall that runs from what was once known as town house square down to the important Peabody-Essex Museum. In the last couple of months the city has been conducting a series of meetings to receive community input into how the mall could become more visitor friendly and more economically viable. After gathering facts a plan was crafted and a grant was applied for. Unfortunately the city has learned that their grant application was denied, but they are now looking at alternative options to provide funding to implement their plan. Even in light of those recent disappointments the city has embarked on a short term plan to make required improvements to the mall that, while they may not appear to be major changes, they will take care of important needs. Contractors are currently at work realigning cobblestones and brick segments of the mall to make the mall more walkable. The funding for these short term improvements are being provided by the city from Chapter 90 funds provided by the Commonwealth to improve and maintain local streets and roads.
Summer Camp for homeless begins in Danvers
A couple of postings ago, I reported on a summer camp program that has been organized by the Town of Danvers to provide summer support services to some of the many children from homeless families currently being housed in motels in Danvers. The summer camp program, that is being housed at the Highlands School, was created in response to school being finished for the year and a concern for what would happen to those school age children who might be relegated to using motel parking lots as playgrounds. The program like many in Danvers is being both funded and supported by volunteers. The Town has reached out seeking financial support and has received donations from residents and then two local banks. Eastern Bank and the North Shore Bank made major financial commitments that will insure that the program can be offered for the planned six weeks duration. In addition to the financial support needed, the Danvers People to People Food Pantry and the Danvers Senior Center and its managing Council on Aging will provide much needed support.
College Continues Planning with Lawrence
It is always good news when the region’s largest city has a positive announcement to make. The City of Lawrence has recently transferred ownership of a property on Common Street to the Commonwealth. This is an important step that will allow Northern Essex Community College to build and open an Allied Health and Technology Center in downtown Lawrence. The property transfer clears the way for a demolition project to begin, which will ultimately result in a new 39,000 sq ft college facility to be built in the downtown area. The new building is expected to be completed and open for students in the fall of 2013. Having a college facility in the downtown with the students it will bring to the area will likely have a most positive economic impact on the city’s downtown. This has been the case in other communities downtowns and I would expect the same result for Lawrence
Local Option Meals and Hotel Taxes Increasing
I recently read a column that indicated that the local option taxes on meals and hotel rooms were producing positive results for many local communities north of Boston. I have no specific results to report, but both Peabody and Danvers with many hotel rooms and communities like Salem and Saugus with numerous eating establishments must be receiving additional funds over projections. I expect that those extra funds are most welcome in these difficult budget times.
Passing of Myra Kraft
As a long time New England Patriots season ticket holder and fan, it was sad news this past week to hear of the passing of Myra Kraft, the wife of Patriots owner Robert Kraft. While she walked in the background in the sports management hierarchy in this region, she was a force in helping to choose a direction for the Patriots. She helped set the moral compass of that franchise and she will be sorely missed. May she rest in peace and her memory will be perpetuated in the many wonderful charitable endeavors that she established and supported during her life.
East Parish Meeting House Report Completed Using a 2010 Essex Heritage Partnership Grant
The East Parish Meeting House
Society recently completed a historic structures report for the East Parish Meeting House in Haverhill. Written by consultant Peter Rudd of Elemental Designs, Inc., the report will help the society better assess and plan for the building's long term preservation.
Built in 1838 and worshipped in by the poet John Greenleaf Whittier, the small, quintessential former New England church structure is one of only seven original meeting houses remaining in Massachusetts. In 2010, faced with an uncertain future and in need of significant repair and restoration, the meeting house was named one of the most endangered historic resources in the state by Preservation Massachusetts, the statewide, nonprofit historic preservation organization. Read more (pdf).
SwampWalk Open House Celebration @ George's home, 37 Longbow Road, Saturday afternoon, July 23, noon-3PM
Beat the heat this Saturday.
Enjoy the air-conditioned showing of the 'SwampWalk Slide Show' running on a 52" HDTV & 9-speaker home theater system:
Salem Bike Path
The City of Salem has taken a big step to make that city more receptive to bike riders. The city has recently completed a striping project that now identifies a 4.8 mile bike lane that will allow a north-south transit from the Marblehead town line to Winter Island Park in the witch city. The identified lane creates a designated space for bike riders to travel safely through the city sharing the roads with other vehicular traffic. The new lane also connects to three or four existing Salem bike paths, so the effect adds even more continuous space to ride in the city. The city continues to plan for additional bike improvements in the city and recently added over fifty bike racks in the downtown to help solve the “where do I park my bike issue.” The bike lane will hopefully point out to other traffic that the streets now need to be shared. The new bike initiative will allow these visitors to stop at several parks, open spaces, schools and beaches. Another important by-product of this new initiative might get a few more cars off Salem streets and that would have a positive impact on a city already crowded by cars. When one considers the bike path improvements made in Peabody and the continuing improvements being provided in Danvers and other local communities, this region is fast becoming a mecca for bike riders. One only had to ride through local communities on last Sunday when a charity event, starting in Lynnfield and continued to Gloucester, called Reids Ride brought out local bike riders who were all over local roads. Essex Heritage has been a primary supporter of bike paths and cycling through its administration and management of the Border to Boston bike path initiative that would allow one to ultimately ride from the North Shore into New Hampshire. So, in addition to helping get some fume producing vehicles off the local roads, we might be contributing to a healthier and better conditioned population.
Farmers Market Opens in Peabody
It certainly appears to me, that every time we post to this Blog, we have another announcement about a farmers market opening. This week is no exception as we see that last week the City of Peabody opened its market for the ninth consecutive year. This market, for some unknown reason, has not been as popular as others in the region. We hope that this year will bring new activity to this important community. The Peabody market will be open every Tuesday from 1-6 until mid October and will operate along Railroad Avenue adjacent to the Little Depot Diner off Central Street and behind the County Courthouse. This year, on a trial basis to enhance the effort, the City will also operate a second market on Saturdays in the Courtyard of the Peabody Institute Library starting on August 13th through September 17th from 9 to 1. The event will include entertainment as well as the usual produce found at traditional Farmers Markets. Providing support to these markets that are offered in numerous communities around the region serves many purposes. Not only are consumers able to access healthy locally grown produce, participation provides substantial economic support to the agricultural element of this region, but that continuing support provides incentive for local farmers to keep farming and helps to preserve hundreds of acres of open space in this region. The viability of local farms will help preserve the look and feel of this region that helps make the region what it has been for centuries.
Salem to Repair Pedestrian Mall
One of the most talked about assets in the City of Salem is its pedestrian mall that runs from what was once known as town house square down to the important Peabody-Essex Museum. In the last couple of months the city has been conducting a series of meetings to receive community input into how the mall could become more visitor friendly and more economically viable. After gathering facts a plan was crafted and a grant was applied for. Unfortunately the city has learned that their grant application was denied, but they are now looking at alternative options to provide funding to implement their plan. Even in light of those recent disappointments the city has embarked on a short term plan to make required improvements to the mall that, while they may not appear to be major changes, they will take care of important needs. Contractors are currently at work realigning cobblestones and brick segments of the mall to make the mall more walkable. The funding for these short term improvements are being provided by the city from Chapter 90 funds provided by the Commonwealth to improve and maintain local streets and roads.
Summer Camp for homeless begins in Danvers
A couple of postings ago, I reported on a summer camp program that has been organized by the Town of Danvers to provide summer support services to some of the many children from homeless families currently being housed in motels in Danvers. The summer camp program, that is being housed at the Highlands School, was created in response to school being finished for the year and a concern for what would happen to those school age children who might be relegated to using motel parking lots as playgrounds. The program like many in Danvers is being both funded and supported by volunteers. The Town has reached out seeking financial support and has received donations from residents and then two local banks. Eastern Bank and the North Shore Bank made major financial commitments that will insure that the program can be offered for the planned six weeks duration. In addition to the financial support needed, the Danvers People to People Food Pantry and the Danvers Senior Center and its managing Council on Aging will provide much needed support.
College Continues Planning with Lawrence
It is always good news when the region’s largest city has a positive announcement to make. The City of Lawrence has recently transferred ownership of a property on Common Street to the Commonwealth. This is an important step that will allow Northern Essex Community College to build and open an Allied Health and Technology Center in downtown Lawrence. The property transfer clears the way for a demolition project to begin, which will ultimately result in a new 39,000 sq ft college facility to be built in the downtown area. The new building is expected to be completed and open for students in the fall of 2013. Having a college facility in the downtown with the students it will bring to the area will likely have a most positive economic impact on the city’s downtown. This has been the case in other communities downtowns and I would expect the same result for Lawrence
Local Option Meals and Hotel Taxes Increasing
I recently read a column that indicated that the local option taxes on meals and hotel rooms were producing positive results for many local communities north of Boston. I have no specific results to report, but both Peabody and Danvers with many hotel rooms and communities like Salem and Saugus with numerous eating establishments must be receiving additional funds over projections. I expect that those extra funds are most welcome in these difficult budget times.
Passing of Myra Kraft
As a long time New England Patriots season ticket holder and fan, it was sad news this past week to hear of the passing of Myra Kraft, the wife of Patriots owner Robert Kraft. While she walked in the background in the sports management hierarchy in this region, she was a force in helping to choose a direction for the Patriots. She helped set the moral compass of that franchise and she will be sorely missed. May she rest in peace and her memory will be perpetuated in the many wonderful charitable endeavors that she established and supported during her life.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
ESSEX HAPPENINGS JULY 20, 2011
National Park Service Names Interim Salem/Saugus NP Superintendent
As we have written in the past in this space, we continue to offer our congratulations to Patty Trap on the wonderful work she has done in this region and for the exceptional promotion she has received as the Deputy Director of the National Park Service mid -west region. Our loss here in Essex county will be the Park Service’s gain, as they will certainly benefit from Patty’s experience and work ethic in her new role. Earlier this week, many of Patty’s friends and associates held a going away party for her at the Salem site.
We have now been advised that the National Park Service has named Ms. Rita Hennessey interim Superintendent of the Salem and Saugus sites. Ms. Hennessy has recently been serving as the Assistant Park Manager of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. She will serve the two parks in the region, the Essex National Heritage Area and its Commission until a new Superintendent is named later this year. As ENHC moves to develop the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway through its 85-mile length. Ms. Hennessey’s previous experience could prove to be most helpful to the region even in the short term.
National Park System Action Plan for 2016
Advisory Board Planning Committee Update
The outlined work being done by this panel can be most advantageous to Essex Heritage and many of the other National Heritage Areas
On June 30, the NPS Advisory Board Planning Committee completed the first phase of its work. The committee submitted its preliminary recommendations to the full NPS Advisory Board. Once the Advisory Board approves these recommendations, the Planning Committee will delve into more specific and detailed recommendations. Essex Heritage Director, Annie Harris, who serves on the 15 member committee, reports that the National Heritage Area program is included in several sections of these recommendations. Director Harris is very pleased that the plan recognizes that the National Heritage Areas provide an excellent "model for effective community based resource conservation and stewardship in (both) urban and rural areas across the nation" and it proposes that the NHAs be further integrated into the National Park Service system.
NPS Director Jon Jarvis has specifically asked the Planning Committee for three early action items that he will announce this fall. Harris anticipates that the National Heritage Areas will be included as working examples of management practices and partnership tools that are important for the future of the Park Service.
The following recap of activities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway are regularly provided in this space because of the importance of this project to the entire region.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
The Byway and Cultural Districts
The byway communities of Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, and Newburyport are among those contemplating application to a state-wide cultural districts program. The new initiative is managed by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and shares the same economic and quality of life goals as the byway program. Read more.
Salem Enhances Byway Biking
The City of Salem recently began marking bike lanes and routes on portions of the city's byway alignment. Check it out.
Historic Maritime Business in Gloucester
Tucked away in the Rocky Neck portion of East Gloucester is a unique maritime service - the Gloucester Marine Railways, the oldest continuously operating marine railway in the country. Learn more here.
Danvers Historical Society Golf Tournament
For those of you, who like me, are enamored with the game of golf, the Danvers Historical Society is offering a great opportunity to both enjoy your game at a great local golf course and at the same time offer financial help to a wonderful cause that benefits an organization that us helping to preserve the heritage of this region. On August 1st at the recently restored Black Swan course, that until just recently was the private Georgetown Country Club, golfers tee off at 8:00 am that day with a shotgun start. The proceeds from the event will benefit the numerous programs and activities of the Historical Society, that help preserve many historical objects and important real estate in the Danvers community. Your entrance fee will be tax deductible and reservations for the event can be made by contacting the Danvers Historical Society at 978-774-1666. We thank Larry Raimondi and his active committee for all of their efforts to make certain that the event will be both a social and financial success.
Salem Five Announces Proposed Relationship with Stoneham Savings Bank
Salem Five Bank, one the largest independent banks in this region has entered into an agreement with Stoneham Savings Bank that calls for the two banks to operate as affiliated banks under the Salem Five Bancorp name for a three year period. It is expected that after the initial three years, the Stoneham bank will then be merged with and into Salem Five. This new arrangement between these two mutual Savings Banks that were originally charted within days over 150 years ago in 1855 is expected to be consumated sometime in the last quarter of this year when all appropriate corporate and regulatory authorizations are approved. At that time, and for the next period, the Stoneham bank will continue to operate as an independent bank until the three-year period expires. During that time frame the Stoneham Institution will continue to operate with its present management, all branches, all management and staff will remain in place. This policy is somewhat different from some of the recent actions relative to merger planning. When the merger is complete the combined resources of the new bank will exceed $3.1 billion in assets and will offer traditional banking services at nearly thirty banking locations from the North Shore into the lower Merrimack Valley. Salem Five along with other local banking institutions in this region have long provided support and guidance to Essex Heritage, and we expect that support to continue. Whenever I provide information about Salem Five in this space, I feel that it is appropriate that I disclose that I served that bank as an employee and an officer for four decades, and still serve as a corporator of the bank.
Danvers to Consider Airport Expansion
In a July meeting the Danvers Planning Board will consider an expansion project that might be considered positive relative to regional tourism, but will likely draw concerns from airport neighbors. The proposal calls for the approval of a project that would add a 7600 sq ft hanger that would also include an access road and an aircraft apron. I would expect that there might be some neighborhood opposition to this expansion effort, even though it might be thought as an enhancement in efforts to increase tourism in this region.
Student Transfer Program Established
The Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill and St Joseph’s College in Maine have joined together in an innovative program. This program that will allow students at the Community College to enroll in programs at the Maine College without ever leaving the Haverhill campus and is considered a forward thinking approach to education. This is a most innovative program and is part of a broader initiative that has linked the Community College with more than two-dozen public and private college and universities. With today’s education costs any program that offers more programs and keeps cost level is a wonderful effort.
Town of Danvers to provide proper handicapped access to Dr. Deering Stadium this Fall
With all of the construction and rehabilitation under way at the rebuilt Danvers High School, this past spring, we had a very difficult time gaining handicapped access to the stadium for the ladies lacrosse season. I am very pleased that after pointing out this deficiency, the Town and its Public Works Director, David Lane have responded quickly to my observations and have assured me that proper changes will be made in the access patterns before the fall athletic season. I am very pleased with the prompt response that I received to my observation and a continuing difficulty of access could have had serious ramifications for a number of handicapped residents of Danvers that wanted to attend an event at the High School.
As we have written in the past in this space, we continue to offer our congratulations to Patty Trap on the wonderful work she has done in this region and for the exceptional promotion she has received as the Deputy Director of the National Park Service mid -west region. Our loss here in Essex county will be the Park Service’s gain, as they will certainly benefit from Patty’s experience and work ethic in her new role. Earlier this week, many of Patty’s friends and associates held a going away party for her at the Salem site.
We have now been advised that the National Park Service has named Ms. Rita Hennessey interim Superintendent of the Salem and Saugus sites. Ms. Hennessy has recently been serving as the Assistant Park Manager of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. She will serve the two parks in the region, the Essex National Heritage Area and its Commission until a new Superintendent is named later this year. As ENHC moves to develop the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway through its 85-mile length. Ms. Hennessey’s previous experience could prove to be most helpful to the region even in the short term.
National Park System Action Plan for 2016
Advisory Board Planning Committee Update
The outlined work being done by this panel can be most advantageous to Essex Heritage and many of the other National Heritage Areas
On June 30, the NPS Advisory Board Planning Committee completed the first phase of its work. The committee submitted its preliminary recommendations to the full NPS Advisory Board. Once the Advisory Board approves these recommendations, the Planning Committee will delve into more specific and detailed recommendations. Essex Heritage Director, Annie Harris, who serves on the 15 member committee, reports that the National Heritage Area program is included in several sections of these recommendations. Director Harris is very pleased that the plan recognizes that the National Heritage Areas provide an excellent "model for effective community based resource conservation and stewardship in (both) urban and rural areas across the nation" and it proposes that the NHAs be further integrated into the National Park Service system.
NPS Director Jon Jarvis has specifically asked the Planning Committee for three early action items that he will announce this fall. Harris anticipates that the National Heritage Areas will be included as working examples of management practices and partnership tools that are important for the future of the Park Service.
The following recap of activities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway are regularly provided in this space because of the importance of this project to the entire region.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
The Byway and Cultural Districts
The byway communities of Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, and Newburyport are among those contemplating application to a state-wide cultural districts program. The new initiative is managed by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and shares the same economic and quality of life goals as the byway program. Read more.
Salem Enhances Byway Biking
The City of Salem recently began marking bike lanes and routes on portions of the city's byway alignment. Check it out.
Historic Maritime Business in Gloucester
Tucked away in the Rocky Neck portion of East Gloucester is a unique maritime service - the Gloucester Marine Railways, the oldest continuously operating marine railway in the country. Learn more here.
Danvers Historical Society Golf Tournament
For those of you, who like me, are enamored with the game of golf, the Danvers Historical Society is offering a great opportunity to both enjoy your game at a great local golf course and at the same time offer financial help to a wonderful cause that benefits an organization that us helping to preserve the heritage of this region. On August 1st at the recently restored Black Swan course, that until just recently was the private Georgetown Country Club, golfers tee off at 8:00 am that day with a shotgun start. The proceeds from the event will benefit the numerous programs and activities of the Historical Society, that help preserve many historical objects and important real estate in the Danvers community. Your entrance fee will be tax deductible and reservations for the event can be made by contacting the Danvers Historical Society at 978-774-1666. We thank Larry Raimondi and his active committee for all of their efforts to make certain that the event will be both a social and financial success.
Salem Five Announces Proposed Relationship with Stoneham Savings Bank
Salem Five Bank, one the largest independent banks in this region has entered into an agreement with Stoneham Savings Bank that calls for the two banks to operate as affiliated banks under the Salem Five Bancorp name for a three year period. It is expected that after the initial three years, the Stoneham bank will then be merged with and into Salem Five. This new arrangement between these two mutual Savings Banks that were originally charted within days over 150 years ago in 1855 is expected to be consumated sometime in the last quarter of this year when all appropriate corporate and regulatory authorizations are approved. At that time, and for the next period, the Stoneham bank will continue to operate as an independent bank until the three-year period expires. During that time frame the Stoneham Institution will continue to operate with its present management, all branches, all management and staff will remain in place. This policy is somewhat different from some of the recent actions relative to merger planning. When the merger is complete the combined resources of the new bank will exceed $3.1 billion in assets and will offer traditional banking services at nearly thirty banking locations from the North Shore into the lower Merrimack Valley. Salem Five along with other local banking institutions in this region have long provided support and guidance to Essex Heritage, and we expect that support to continue. Whenever I provide information about Salem Five in this space, I feel that it is appropriate that I disclose that I served that bank as an employee and an officer for four decades, and still serve as a corporator of the bank.
Danvers to Consider Airport Expansion
In a July meeting the Danvers Planning Board will consider an expansion project that might be considered positive relative to regional tourism, but will likely draw concerns from airport neighbors. The proposal calls for the approval of a project that would add a 7600 sq ft hanger that would also include an access road and an aircraft apron. I would expect that there might be some neighborhood opposition to this expansion effort, even though it might be thought as an enhancement in efforts to increase tourism in this region.
Student Transfer Program Established
The Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill and St Joseph’s College in Maine have joined together in an innovative program. This program that will allow students at the Community College to enroll in programs at the Maine College without ever leaving the Haverhill campus and is considered a forward thinking approach to education. This is a most innovative program and is part of a broader initiative that has linked the Community College with more than two-dozen public and private college and universities. With today’s education costs any program that offers more programs and keeps cost level is a wonderful effort.
Town of Danvers to provide proper handicapped access to Dr. Deering Stadium this Fall
With all of the construction and rehabilitation under way at the rebuilt Danvers High School, this past spring, we had a very difficult time gaining handicapped access to the stadium for the ladies lacrosse season. I am very pleased that after pointing out this deficiency, the Town and its Public Works Director, David Lane have responded quickly to my observations and have assured me that proper changes will be made in the access patterns before the fall athletic season. I am very pleased with the prompt response that I received to my observation and a continuing difficulty of access could have had serious ramifications for a number of handicapped residents of Danvers that wanted to attend an event at the High School.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Essex HAPPENINGS JULY 16, 2011
National Park Service Names Interim Salem/Saugus NP Superintendent
As we have written in the past in this space, we continue to offer our congratulations to Patty Trapp on the wonderful work she has done in this region and for the exceptional promotion she has received as the Deputy Director of the National Park Service mid -west region. Our loss here in Essex county will be the Park Service’s gain, as they will certainly benefit from Patty’s experience and work ethic in her new role. Earlier this week, many of Patty’s friends and associates held a going away party for her at the Salem site.
We have now been advised that the National Park Service has named Ms. Rita Hennessey interim Superintendent of the Salem and Saugus sites. Ms. Hennessy has recently been serving as the Assistant Park Manager of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. She will serve the two parks in the region, the Essex National Heritage Area and its Commission until a new Superintendent is named later this year. As ENHC moves to develop the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway through its 85-mile length. Ms. Hennessey’s previous experience could prove to be most helpful to the region even in the short term.
National Park System Action Plan for 2016
Advisory Board Planning Committee Update
The outlined work being done by this panel can be most advantageous to Essex Heritage and many of the other National Heritage Areas
On June 30, the NPS Advisory Board Planning Committee completed the first phase of its work. The committee submitted its preliminary recommendations to the full NPS Advisory Board. Once the Advisory Board approves these recommendations, the Planning Committee will delve into more specific and detailed recommendations. Essex Heritage Director, Annie Harris, who serves on the 15 member committee, reports that the National Heritage Area program is included in several sections of these recommendations. Director Harris is very pleased that the plan recognizes that the National Heritage Areas provide an excellent "model for effective community based resource conservation and stewardship in (both) urban and rural areas across the nation" and it proposes that the NHAs be further integrated into the National Park Service system.
NPS Director Jon Jarvis has specifically asked the Planning Committee for three early action items that he will announce this fall. Harris anticipates that the National Heritage Areas will be included as working examples of management practices and partnership tools that are important for the future of the Park Service.
The following recap of activities along the Coastal Byway are regularly provided in this space because of the importance of this project to the entire region.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
The Byway and Cultural Districts
The byway communities of Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, and Newburyport are among those contemplating application to a state-wide cultural districts program. The new initiative is managed by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and shares the same economic and quality of life goals as the byway program. Read more.
Salem Enhances Byway Biking
The City of Salem recently began marking bike lanes and routes on portions of the city's byway alignment. Check it out.
Historic Maritime Business in Gloucester
Tucked away in the Rocky Neck portion of East Gloucester is a unique maritime service - the Gloucester Marine Railways, the oldest continuously operating marine railway in the country. Learn more here.
Danvers Historical Society Golf Tournament
For those of you, who like me, are enamored with the game of golf, the Danvers Historical Society is offering a great opportunity to both enjoy your game at a great local golf course and at the same time offer financial help to a wonderful cause that benefits an organization that us helping to preserve the heritage of this region. On August 1st at the recently restored Black Swan course, that until just recently was the private Georgetown Country Club, golfers tee off at 8:00 am that day with a shotgun start. The proceeds from the event will benefit the numerous programs and activities of the Historical Society, that help preserve many historical objects and important real estate in the Danvers community. Your entrance fee will be tax deductible and reservations for the event can be made by contacting the Danvers Historical Society at 978-774-1666. We thank Larry Raimondi and his active committee for all of their efforts to make certain that the event will be both a social and financial success.
Salem Five Announces Proposed Relationship with Stoneham Savings Bank
Salem Five Bank, one the largest independent banks in this region has entered into an agreement with Stoneham Savings Bank that calls for the two banks to operate as affiliated banks under the Salem Five Bancorp name for a three year period. It is expected that after the initial three years, the Stoneham bank will then be merged with and into Salem Five. This new arrangement between these two mutual Savings Banks that were originally charted within days over 150 years ago in 1855 is expected to be consumated sometime in the last quarter of this year when all appropriate corporate and regulatory authorizations are approved. At that time, and for the next period, the Stoneham bank will continue to operate as an independent bank until the three-year period expires. During that time frame the Stoneham Institution will continue to operate with its present management, all branches, all management and staff will remain in place. This policy is somewhat different from some of the recent actions relative to merger planning. When the merger is complete the combined resources of the new bank will exceed $3.1 billion in assets and will offer traditional banking services at nearly thirty banking locations from the North Shore into the lower Merrimack Valley. Salem Five along with other local banking institutions in this region have long provided support and guidance to Essex Heritage, and we expect that support to continue. Whenever I provide information about Salem Five in this space, I feel that it is appropriate that I disclose that I served that bank as an employee and an officer for four decades, and still serve as a corporator of the bank.
Danvers to Consider Airport Expansion
In a July meeting the Danvers Planning Board will consider an expansion project that might be considered positive relative to regional tourism, but will likely draw concerns from airport neighbors. The proposal calls for the approval of a project that would add a 7600 sq ft hanger that would also include an access road and an aircraft apron. I would expect that there might be some neighborhood opposition to this expansion effort, even though it might be thought as an enhancement in efforts to increase tourism in this region.
Student Transfer Program Established
The Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill and St Joseph’s College in Maine have joined together in an innovative program. This program that will allow students at the Community College to enroll in programs at the Maine College without ever leaving the Haverhill campus and is considered a forward thinking approach to education. This is a most innovative program and is part of a broader initiative that has linked the Community College with more than two-dozen public and private college and universities. With today’s education costs any program that offers more programs and keeps cost level is a wonderful effort.
Town of Danvers to provide proper handicapped access to Dr. Deering Stadium this Fall
With all of the construction and rehabilitation under way at the rebuilt Danvers High School, this past spring, we had a very difficult time gaining handicapped access to the stadium for the ladies lacrosse season. I am very pleased that after pointing out this deficiency, the Town and its Public Works Director, David Lane have responded quickly to my observations and have assured me that proper changes will be made in the access patterns before the fall athletic season. I am very pleased with the prompt response that I received to my observation and a continuing difficulty of access could have had serious ramifications for a number of handicapped residents of Danvers that wanted to attend an event at the High School.
As we have written in the past in this space, we continue to offer our congratulations to Patty Trapp on the wonderful work she has done in this region and for the exceptional promotion she has received as the Deputy Director of the National Park Service mid -west region. Our loss here in Essex county will be the Park Service’s gain, as they will certainly benefit from Patty’s experience and work ethic in her new role. Earlier this week, many of Patty’s friends and associates held a going away party for her at the Salem site.
We have now been advised that the National Park Service has named Ms. Rita Hennessey interim Superintendent of the Salem and Saugus sites. Ms. Hennessy has recently been serving as the Assistant Park Manager of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. She will serve the two parks in the region, the Essex National Heritage Area and its Commission until a new Superintendent is named later this year. As ENHC moves to develop the Essex Heritage Scenic Byway through its 85-mile length. Ms. Hennessey’s previous experience could prove to be most helpful to the region even in the short term.
National Park System Action Plan for 2016
Advisory Board Planning Committee Update
The outlined work being done by this panel can be most advantageous to Essex Heritage and many of the other National Heritage Areas
On June 30, the NPS Advisory Board Planning Committee completed the first phase of its work. The committee submitted its preliminary recommendations to the full NPS Advisory Board. Once the Advisory Board approves these recommendations, the Planning Committee will delve into more specific and detailed recommendations. Essex Heritage Director, Annie Harris, who serves on the 15 member committee, reports that the National Heritage Area program is included in several sections of these recommendations. Director Harris is very pleased that the plan recognizes that the National Heritage Areas provide an excellent "model for effective community based resource conservation and stewardship in (both) urban and rural areas across the nation" and it proposes that the NHAs be further integrated into the National Park Service system.
NPS Director Jon Jarvis has specifically asked the Planning Committee for three early action items that he will announce this fall. Harris anticipates that the National Heritage Areas will be included as working examples of management practices and partnership tools that are important for the future of the Park Service.
The following recap of activities along the Coastal Byway are regularly provided in this space because of the importance of this project to the entire region.
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
The Byway and Cultural Districts
The byway communities of Lynn, Salem, Gloucester, and Newburyport are among those contemplating application to a state-wide cultural districts program. The new initiative is managed by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and shares the same economic and quality of life goals as the byway program. Read more.
Salem Enhances Byway Biking
The City of Salem recently began marking bike lanes and routes on portions of the city's byway alignment. Check it out.
Historic Maritime Business in Gloucester
Tucked away in the Rocky Neck portion of East Gloucester is a unique maritime service - the Gloucester Marine Railways, the oldest continuously operating marine railway in the country. Learn more here.
Danvers Historical Society Golf Tournament
For those of you, who like me, are enamored with the game of golf, the Danvers Historical Society is offering a great opportunity to both enjoy your game at a great local golf course and at the same time offer financial help to a wonderful cause that benefits an organization that us helping to preserve the heritage of this region. On August 1st at the recently restored Black Swan course, that until just recently was the private Georgetown Country Club, golfers tee off at 8:00 am that day with a shotgun start. The proceeds from the event will benefit the numerous programs and activities of the Historical Society, that help preserve many historical objects and important real estate in the Danvers community. Your entrance fee will be tax deductible and reservations for the event can be made by contacting the Danvers Historical Society at 978-774-1666. We thank Larry Raimondi and his active committee for all of their efforts to make certain that the event will be both a social and financial success.
Salem Five Announces Proposed Relationship with Stoneham Savings Bank
Salem Five Bank, one the largest independent banks in this region has entered into an agreement with Stoneham Savings Bank that calls for the two banks to operate as affiliated banks under the Salem Five Bancorp name for a three year period. It is expected that after the initial three years, the Stoneham bank will then be merged with and into Salem Five. This new arrangement between these two mutual Savings Banks that were originally charted within days over 150 years ago in 1855 is expected to be consumated sometime in the last quarter of this year when all appropriate corporate and regulatory authorizations are approved. At that time, and for the next period, the Stoneham bank will continue to operate as an independent bank until the three-year period expires. During that time frame the Stoneham Institution will continue to operate with its present management, all branches, all management and staff will remain in place. This policy is somewhat different from some of the recent actions relative to merger planning. When the merger is complete the combined resources of the new bank will exceed $3.1 billion in assets and will offer traditional banking services at nearly thirty banking locations from the North Shore into the lower Merrimack Valley. Salem Five along with other local banking institutions in this region have long provided support and guidance to Essex Heritage, and we expect that support to continue. Whenever I provide information about Salem Five in this space, I feel that it is appropriate that I disclose that I served that bank as an employee and an officer for four decades, and still serve as a corporator of the bank.
Danvers to Consider Airport Expansion
In a July meeting the Danvers Planning Board will consider an expansion project that might be considered positive relative to regional tourism, but will likely draw concerns from airport neighbors. The proposal calls for the approval of a project that would add a 7600 sq ft hanger that would also include an access road and an aircraft apron. I would expect that there might be some neighborhood opposition to this expansion effort, even though it might be thought as an enhancement in efforts to increase tourism in this region.
Student Transfer Program Established
The Northern Essex Community College in Haverhill and St Joseph’s College in Maine have joined together in an innovative program. This program that will allow students at the Community College to enroll in programs at the Maine College without ever leaving the Haverhill campus and is considered a forward thinking approach to education. This is a most innovative program and is part of a broader initiative that has linked the Community College with more than two-dozen public and private college and universities. With today’s education costs any program that offers more programs and keeps cost level is a wonderful effort.
Town of Danvers to provide proper handicapped access to Dr. Deering Stadium this Fall
With all of the construction and rehabilitation under way at the rebuilt Danvers High School, this past spring, we had a very difficult time gaining handicapped access to the stadium for the ladies lacrosse season. I am very pleased that after pointing out this deficiency, the Town and its Public Works Director, David Lane have responded quickly to my observations and have assured me that proper changes will be made in the access patterns before the fall athletic season. I am very pleased with the prompt response that I received to my observation and a continuing difficulty of access could have had serious ramifications for a number of handicapped residents of Danvers that wanted to attend an event at the High School.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Essex HAPPENINGS JULY 13, 2011
Good-bye & Thank You to Patty Trap
We bid a fond farewell to Patty Trap,
the superintendent of Salem Maritime and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Sites. Patty is leaving to become the deputy regional director for the National Park Service's (NPS) Midwest Region starting in mid-July.
Patty has been an inspiration to us all. She brought new ideas to this region, provided more services to our residents and greatly expanded the partnership between Essex Heritage and the NPS. She was dedicated to making maritime history come alive by sailing the Friendship of Salem to ports near and far providing our residents and visitors with a first-hand glimpse into maritime history.
Patty has also shown a tremendous commitment to the youth of our region by developing new, hands-on education opportunities at Salem and Saugus, and providing job corps training for our urban youth - giving them unique opportunities and experiences within the heritage area.
We wish her luck in her new adventure! Read more.
Salem Maritime Festival
Join the National Park Service at Derby Wharf in Salem on Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm for their annual Maritime Festival, celebrating, ships, sawdust, sailors and song. The annual Maritime Festival is a community-sponsored celebration of four centuries of Salem Maritime History and tradition. Enjoy lots of family fun with activities and music. For more information visit www.nps.gov/sama.
Harold Burnham Launches Wooden Boat
It is always important news when a new wooden boat is launched along this Essex County seacoast. That event happened this past holiday weekend when the Ardelle was launched from the Burnham Boatyard in Essex. The Ardelle is 49 person Pinkie Schooner that was built in the traditional wooden boat manner and will soon join the fleet of wooden boats in this region as a research and educational vessel for the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center. The ship named after the builder’s Grandmother and Daughter is the latest of many wooden boats built in the Harold Burnhan Boat Yard in Essex. The boatyard has existed in Essex for many years and the current boat builder is the 11th generation of wooden boat builders operating out of the historic location in Essex. This will become the second wooden ship operating out of Gloucester as the Adelle joins the Thomas E. Lannon operating out of that port. Those two ships will join the Friendship and the Fame that operate out of The National Park Service Maritime Historic Site in Salem., bringing the total of wooden boats in the region’s waters to four.
Newburyport Program to Help Families in Need
I recently read a nice story about a community project being organized in Newburyport. A local Church and the YWCA have joined together to offer the 2nd annual Stir the Pot program. The goal of the program is to collect two tons of excess fruit and vegetables from the community and distribute those agricultural products to families in need from that region. Several not-for-profit organizations that focus on food programs and affordable housing initiatives have teamed up to make this program a success. For more information on how you could contribute or receive food, visit www.stirthepot.blogspot.com or call Jeff Bard at 978 270-3293 or contact him at jeffbard@hotmail.com. This is a wonderful example of neighbors helping neighbors, and lets hope the program works to bring people together that need one another.
Community Reading of Declaration of Independence in Danvers
The final event that we attended during the Family Festival was a Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence. The event in Danvers was held at the Training Field in the Danvers Highlands and was held after the annual Horrible Parade that ends at the same location. The idea was a wonderful one, but there was a time gap between the end of the parade and the reading, which caused many people to leave before the reading started. For those of us that participated it was rewarding, but there were not enough participants. I know that there was a similar reading on Salem Common and I hope that event was well attended.
Rail Trail News From the Danvers Bi-PEDs
Danvers Rail trail progress - Have you paid a visit to the Danvers Rail trail yet? As far as trails go, it is rather primitive at this point. As for areas like the Rt. 62 crossing, they are still being worked out. Many things are currently in the works such as vegetation management and drainage north of Wenham. People are free to use the trail as it is but caution is needed. It is definitely a work in progress. Many in the community have expressed a desire for a better surface. Improvements to the trail may become a future fund raising projects for the Danvers Bi-Peds. A community trail takes a community effort.
John Archer and the Danvers State Hospital Kirkbride Building
Danvers has a wonderful preservationist living in its midst. One who has put his commitment to preserving important properties ahead of personal gain. Very early in discussions about the future of the soon to be abandoned Danvers State Hospital property and the valuable historic Kirkbride building on that site, John Archer, a local Insurance businessman, staked out a position on the historic keystone building on Hathone Hill. This building named after Dr. Kirkbride who played an important role in the early treatment of patients suffering from many forms of mental illness needed to be preserved. John’s efforts to see this important piece of the history of Danvers was pervasive and in many cases most persuasive.
As the plans to see the valuable piece of real estate re-developed were created, it became clear that not all of the historic building would be able to be incorporated in a new final residential condominium project. The final plans proved to be important to the town as new taxable property was created and substantial contributions from the ultimate developers were obtained that would be used in school development efforts and town-wide valuable preservation efforts.
John Archer would not give in even as the wrecking balls and backhoes began the work to create a new use for the property on Hathone Hill. He continued to wear his preservation hat and made a concerted effort to acquire and then re-structure doors, windows, paneling and granite into his residence. Now he has undertaken a major project, and has acquired a substantial section of the chapel from the historic property and is adding it as an addition to his home. The work is under construction and John has promised me a tour of the project when it is nearer completion. I will report on that visit in a later posting.
Final Holiday Fireworks Displayed in Salem and Danvers.
I was not able to attend either the final holiday celebrations in either Salem or Danvers, but those that did attend were most complimentary. Newspaper reports were also most positive, and the celebrations in those two communities were well received by residents and others from this region. I believe that this finally brings the Independence Day celebrations to an end for this year.
Red Sox Finish First Half of Season in Style
After a truly horrendous start, the Red Sox finished up the first half of the season twenty games over 500 and are well positioned for a pennant run.
Some Material in this BLOG has been reprinted with permission from the Essex Heritage Electronic Newsletter
We bid a fond farewell to Patty Trap,
the superintendent of Salem Maritime and Saugus Iron Works National Historic Sites. Patty is leaving to become the deputy regional director for the National Park Service's (NPS) Midwest Region starting in mid-July.
Patty has been an inspiration to us all. She brought new ideas to this region, provided more services to our residents and greatly expanded the partnership between Essex Heritage and the NPS. She was dedicated to making maritime history come alive by sailing the Friendship of Salem to ports near and far providing our residents and visitors with a first-hand glimpse into maritime history.
Patty has also shown a tremendous commitment to the youth of our region by developing new, hands-on education opportunities at Salem and Saugus, and providing job corps training for our urban youth - giving them unique opportunities and experiences within the heritage area.
We wish her luck in her new adventure! Read more.
Salem Maritime Festival
Join the National Park Service at Derby Wharf in Salem on Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm for their annual Maritime Festival, celebrating, ships, sawdust, sailors and song. The annual Maritime Festival is a community-sponsored celebration of four centuries of Salem Maritime History and tradition. Enjoy lots of family fun with activities and music. For more information visit www.nps.gov/sama.
Harold Burnham Launches Wooden Boat
It is always important news when a new wooden boat is launched along this Essex County seacoast. That event happened this past holiday weekend when the Ardelle was launched from the Burnham Boatyard in Essex. The Ardelle is 49 person Pinkie Schooner that was built in the traditional wooden boat manner and will soon join the fleet of wooden boats in this region as a research and educational vessel for the Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center. The ship named after the builder’s Grandmother and Daughter is the latest of many wooden boats built in the Harold Burnhan Boat Yard in Essex. The boatyard has existed in Essex for many years and the current boat builder is the 11th generation of wooden boat builders operating out of the historic location in Essex. This will become the second wooden ship operating out of Gloucester as the Adelle joins the Thomas E. Lannon operating out of that port. Those two ships will join the Friendship and the Fame that operate out of The National Park Service Maritime Historic Site in Salem., bringing the total of wooden boats in the region’s waters to four.
Newburyport Program to Help Families in Need
I recently read a nice story about a community project being organized in Newburyport. A local Church and the YWCA have joined together to offer the 2nd annual Stir the Pot program. The goal of the program is to collect two tons of excess fruit and vegetables from the community and distribute those agricultural products to families in need from that region. Several not-for-profit organizations that focus on food programs and affordable housing initiatives have teamed up to make this program a success. For more information on how you could contribute or receive food, visit www.stirthepot.blogspot.com or call Jeff Bard at 978 270-3293 or contact him at jeffbard@hotmail.com. This is a wonderful example of neighbors helping neighbors, and lets hope the program works to bring people together that need one another.
Community Reading of Declaration of Independence in Danvers
The final event that we attended during the Family Festival was a Community Reading of the Declaration of Independence. The event in Danvers was held at the Training Field in the Danvers Highlands and was held after the annual Horrible Parade that ends at the same location. The idea was a wonderful one, but there was a time gap between the end of the parade and the reading, which caused many people to leave before the reading started. For those of us that participated it was rewarding, but there were not enough participants. I know that there was a similar reading on Salem Common and I hope that event was well attended.
Rail Trail News From the Danvers Bi-PEDs
Danvers Rail trail progress - Have you paid a visit to the Danvers Rail trail yet? As far as trails go, it is rather primitive at this point. As for areas like the Rt. 62 crossing, they are still being worked out. Many things are currently in the works such as vegetation management and drainage north of Wenham. People are free to use the trail as it is but caution is needed. It is definitely a work in progress. Many in the community have expressed a desire for a better surface. Improvements to the trail may become a future fund raising projects for the Danvers Bi-Peds. A community trail takes a community effort.
John Archer and the Danvers State Hospital Kirkbride Building
Danvers has a wonderful preservationist living in its midst. One who has put his commitment to preserving important properties ahead of personal gain. Very early in discussions about the future of the soon to be abandoned Danvers State Hospital property and the valuable historic Kirkbride building on that site, John Archer, a local Insurance businessman, staked out a position on the historic keystone building on Hathone Hill. This building named after Dr. Kirkbride who played an important role in the early treatment of patients suffering from many forms of mental illness needed to be preserved. John’s efforts to see this important piece of the history of Danvers was pervasive and in many cases most persuasive.
As the plans to see the valuable piece of real estate re-developed were created, it became clear that not all of the historic building would be able to be incorporated in a new final residential condominium project. The final plans proved to be important to the town as new taxable property was created and substantial contributions from the ultimate developers were obtained that would be used in school development efforts and town-wide valuable preservation efforts.
John Archer would not give in even as the wrecking balls and backhoes began the work to create a new use for the property on Hathone Hill. He continued to wear his preservation hat and made a concerted effort to acquire and then re-structure doors, windows, paneling and granite into his residence. Now he has undertaken a major project, and has acquired a substantial section of the chapel from the historic property and is adding it as an addition to his home. The work is under construction and John has promised me a tour of the project when it is nearer completion. I will report on that visit in a later posting.
Final Holiday Fireworks Displayed in Salem and Danvers.
I was not able to attend either the final holiday celebrations in either Salem or Danvers, but those that did attend were most complimentary. Newspaper reports were also most positive, and the celebrations in those two communities were well received by residents and others from this region. I believe that this finally brings the Independence Day celebrations to an end for this year.
Red Sox Finish First Half of Season in Style
After a truly horrendous start, the Red Sox finished up the first half of the season twenty games over 500 and are well positioned for a pennant run.
Some Material in this BLOG has been reprinted with permission from the Essex Heritage Electronic Newsletter
Friday, July 8, 2011
EssEX HAPPENINGS JULY 8, 2011
Local Chamber Recognizes Essex Heritage Director
Amesbury Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Essex National Heritage Commission's Executive Director
On May 18, at their Good News Business Salute Breakfast the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce recognized three local organizations: Good Gracious, Essex Heritage and Kramer Scientific/Merrimac Tool Co., Ink. Annie C. Harris, Essex National Heritage Area Executive Director, was recognized for her contributions and efforts in the Merrimack Valley. Ms. Harris has been active for many years in civic and community organizations around the Merrimack Valley. She was a leader in starting a collaborative effort between the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Commission to bring the Heritage Landscape Inventory program to communities in Essex County.
M’HEAD TOWN ADMINISTRATOR AND RETIREMENT OF SASSO
The Town of Marblehead has a daunting task ahead of them in the immediate future. The town’s Board of Selectmen will have to find a replacement for their long time Town Administrator, Anthony Sasso, who has announced that he will be retiring in the Spring of 2012. The Board of Selectman will be hiring a consultant to help with this task. Mr. Sasso has long been a friend and supporter of Essex Heritage and we will miss his support when he retires.
EVENT OFFERED JOINTLY WITH THE SWAMP WALK TEAM
July 17, 2011, Sunday - SwampWalk: Grand Tour & Where-do-we-go-from-here? Choate Farm to Swamp Walk - 9:00 to noon - As the monthly walk for July, the Bi-Peds will join up with the SwampWalk Grand Tour organized by George Saluto. Meet at Choate Farm parking lot, 401 Locust Street, and hike to the rail bed. Hikers will travel north to the newly constructed Swamp Walk where environmental scientist and SwampWalk pioneer, John Dick, will discuss the project and answer questions. All are welcome. It should be noted that the trail is not yet suitable for wheelchairs. George Saluto has assured me that his SwampWalk team is working to correct that deficiency in the future.
Salem State University
I am on the mailing list for Salem State University and I recently received an e-mail newsletter from the energetic, and eminently competent President of that South Salem University. The letter from President Patricia Meservey was mailed to thousands of alumni and friends of the University and the President used the opportunity to celebrate the first anniversary of being approved as a University. I am certain that the letter was mailed to many of you who might follow this Blog, but in the event you did not see the message, I have taken the liberty to reprint a slightly abridged letter here. Essex Heritage has been an enthusiastic early supporter of the concept that included what was Salem State College into the State University system. The first year as a university passed very quickly and the changes at the school has certainly lived up to expectations and has been a wonderful addition to the region. The following newsletter is presented as we believe that the institution is such an important element of life in this region. The letter recounts some of the milestones and achievements accomplished by Salem State University in the past year and the administration and everyone connected with the new University should be most proud of all that has been accomplished.
Dear Alumni and Friends of Salem State University,
Welcome to “Highlights of Our First Year as a University,” a concise summary of recent scholarly achievements, academic developments, civic engagement initiatives, and campus changes taking place at Salem State University. Our most extraordinary year began with designation as a state university last July, and official recognition on October 26, 2010.
Since then we have dedicated our newest residence facility, Marsh Hall, and broke ground on a magnificent new library and learning commons taking shape on North Campus. It will provide our students and faculty with bright, airy and contemporary facilities that encourage learning along with the technology that will enable them to connect with resources far beyond our Salem campus. Our acquisition and renovation this year of the nearby Weir property on Loring Avenue has allowed us to extend our physical campus as well.
A major undertaking in this academic year was to embark on a comprehensive self-study which included a site visit from an external accrediting organization, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. We will learn the outcome of these efforts in the fall. However, it is our sense that we were reviewed as being a strong institution, set on an ambitious agenda and committed to our mission of excellent public higher education.
We also established the Salem State University Civic Engagement Hall of Fame on campus and inducted its first three members this spring: chemistry/physics professor Christine MacTaylor, student Kelsey Utne and administrator Lucy Corchado. We congratulate each of our award recipients and applaud their commitment to improving the quality of life in communities both near and far. To learn more about these dedicated individuals, visit the "News" section of our site.
I am also delighted to introduce some of the first students to graduate since we became a university. I had the pleasure of sitting down and talking with these seven members of the class of 2011 as they prepared to attend their first event as alumni, a reception at the Peabody Essex Museum during alumni weekend. I was very impressed with their eloquence and their eagerness to make a difference in the world and I invite you to watch the video of these impressive young Salem State graduates as they express their aspirations for the future as well as their reflections on their university experience. It is with great pride that I introduce Deana Manfra, Phi Pham, Amanda Middleton, Eoghain Hamilton, Juliana Silva, Emmanuel Asonganyi, and James Young from Salem State University’s class of 2011.
You may find this information about commencement 2011 interesting. Our 2011 commencement exercises encompassed three ceremonies, one for the School of Graduate Studies on May 19, and two on May 21 to award undergraduate degrees to students of the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education (morning), and the College of Health and Human Services and the Bertolon School of Business (afternoon). The student address at the graduate ceremony was delivered by Patricia Hughes of Watertown, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were bestowed upon Elaine S. Marks, education and social services advocate; Ralph Kaplan, owner of Kappy’s Fine Wine & Liquors; and Governor Patrick. Since August 2010, the university has awarded 528 master’s degrees. The student speech at the morning ceremony on May 21 was delivered by international student Hervé Mukeba Mukuna of the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Margaret A. McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation, delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were awarded to James T. Brett, president and CEO of The New England Council; James G. Crosby, founder of Crosby’s Marketplace and Ms. McKenna. At the May 21 afternoon ceremony, Juliana Silva of Brazil spoke on behalf of her fellow students; David Fanning, executive producer of PBS's Frontline, delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were awarded to Patricia A. Driscoll, COO of Girls Incorporated (Girls Inc.); Richard C. Bane, president, BaneCare Management LLC; and Mr. Fanning. Salem State awarded a total of 1,324 undergraduate degrees since August 2010.
At Our first “university” alumni weekend earlier this month we celebrated alumni weekend for the first time as a university. Over the course of three days, alumni, faculty and friends came back to reconnect and reminisce about their days at Salem State. The 2011 weekend lineup featured a variety of celebrations, including a theatre alumni reunion and all-star roast of retiring theatre professor Whitney “Whizz” White. Among the many ‘special’ reunions that took place were the following: the class of 1961’s 50th reunion; a reunion of the athletes of the 1980s; a reunion of the Salem State women’s basketball team that won the NCAA championship; a social work reunion on the waterfront; and a 40th reunion of our Salem State Preschool. Other memory-making events included a grand alumni reception at the Peabody Essex Museum; a pub crawl in honor of Salem State’s late economics professor Karl Wesolowski, and an alumni golf tournament. The weekend culminated with a farewell jazz brunch on Sunday. At each of these events, many friendships were re-established, new friends found, stories shared, and new memories made. Alumni weekend 2011 was a direct reflection of how our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends share their pride as part of Salem State University! View images from the weekend’s activities—do you. Recognizing high achievers academic excellence is cause for celebration, especially as we bring another academic year to its conclusion
We invite all of our alumni back to see first-hand what a vibrant institution the university is today. A solid alumni base is the foundation of a strong and competitive university and we ask that you stay connected by attending one of our many alumni, athletic or arts events. Our students are counting on your support as we reach the end of our fiscal year, June 30. Your gift today will not only commemorate confirmation of university status, it will also provide needed support for student life and learning at Salem State University
Reprinted from Salem State Newsletter
Some Material Reprinted with permission from Essex Heritage Newsletter
Amesbury Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Essex National Heritage Commission's Executive Director
On May 18, at their Good News Business Salute Breakfast the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce recognized three local organizations: Good Gracious, Essex Heritage and Kramer Scientific/Merrimac Tool Co., Ink. Annie C. Harris, Essex National Heritage Area Executive Director, was recognized for her contributions and efforts in the Merrimack Valley. Ms. Harris has been active for many years in civic and community organizations around the Merrimack Valley. She was a leader in starting a collaborative effort between the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Commission to bring the Heritage Landscape Inventory program to communities in Essex County.
M’HEAD TOWN ADMINISTRATOR AND RETIREMENT OF SASSO
The Town of Marblehead has a daunting task ahead of them in the immediate future. The town’s Board of Selectmen will have to find a replacement for their long time Town Administrator, Anthony Sasso, who has announced that he will be retiring in the Spring of 2012. The Board of Selectman will be hiring a consultant to help with this task. Mr. Sasso has long been a friend and supporter of Essex Heritage and we will miss his support when he retires.
EVENT OFFERED JOINTLY WITH THE SWAMP WALK TEAM
July 17, 2011, Sunday - SwampWalk: Grand Tour & Where-do-we-go-from-here? Choate Farm to Swamp Walk - 9:00 to noon - As the monthly walk for July, the Bi-Peds will join up with the SwampWalk Grand Tour organized by George Saluto. Meet at Choate Farm parking lot, 401 Locust Street, and hike to the rail bed. Hikers will travel north to the newly constructed Swamp Walk where environmental scientist and SwampWalk pioneer, John Dick, will discuss the project and answer questions. All are welcome. It should be noted that the trail is not yet suitable for wheelchairs. George Saluto has assured me that his SwampWalk team is working to correct that deficiency in the future.
Salem State University
I am on the mailing list for Salem State University and I recently received an e-mail newsletter from the energetic, and eminently competent President of that South Salem University. The letter from President Patricia Meservey was mailed to thousands of alumni and friends of the University and the President used the opportunity to celebrate the first anniversary of being approved as a University. I am certain that the letter was mailed to many of you who might follow this Blog, but in the event you did not see the message, I have taken the liberty to reprint a slightly abridged letter here. Essex Heritage has been an enthusiastic early supporter of the concept that included what was Salem State College into the State University system. The first year as a university passed very quickly and the changes at the school has certainly lived up to expectations and has been a wonderful addition to the region. The following newsletter is presented as we believe that the institution is such an important element of life in this region. The letter recounts some of the milestones and achievements accomplished by Salem State University in the past year and the administration and everyone connected with the new University should be most proud of all that has been accomplished.
Dear Alumni and Friends of Salem State University,
Welcome to “Highlights of Our First Year as a University,” a concise summary of recent scholarly achievements, academic developments, civic engagement initiatives, and campus changes taking place at Salem State University. Our most extraordinary year began with designation as a state university last July, and official recognition on October 26, 2010.
Since then we have dedicated our newest residence facility, Marsh Hall, and broke ground on a magnificent new library and learning commons taking shape on North Campus. It will provide our students and faculty with bright, airy and contemporary facilities that encourage learning along with the technology that will enable them to connect with resources far beyond our Salem campus. Our acquisition and renovation this year of the nearby Weir property on Loring Avenue has allowed us to extend our physical campus as well.
A major undertaking in this academic year was to embark on a comprehensive self-study which included a site visit from an external accrediting organization, the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. We will learn the outcome of these efforts in the fall. However, it is our sense that we were reviewed as being a strong institution, set on an ambitious agenda and committed to our mission of excellent public higher education.
We also established the Salem State University Civic Engagement Hall of Fame on campus and inducted its first three members this spring: chemistry/physics professor Christine MacTaylor, student Kelsey Utne and administrator Lucy Corchado. We congratulate each of our award recipients and applaud their commitment to improving the quality of life in communities both near and far. To learn more about these dedicated individuals, visit the "News" section of our site.
I am also delighted to introduce some of the first students to graduate since we became a university. I had the pleasure of sitting down and talking with these seven members of the class of 2011 as they prepared to attend their first event as alumni, a reception at the Peabody Essex Museum during alumni weekend. I was very impressed with their eloquence and their eagerness to make a difference in the world and I invite you to watch the video of these impressive young Salem State graduates as they express their aspirations for the future as well as their reflections on their university experience. It is with great pride that I introduce Deana Manfra, Phi Pham, Amanda Middleton, Eoghain Hamilton, Juliana Silva, Emmanuel Asonganyi, and James Young from Salem State University’s class of 2011.
You may find this information about commencement 2011 interesting. Our 2011 commencement exercises encompassed three ceremonies, one for the School of Graduate Studies on May 19, and two on May 21 to award undergraduate degrees to students of the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Education (morning), and the College of Health and Human Services and the Bertolon School of Business (afternoon). The student address at the graduate ceremony was delivered by Patricia Hughes of Watertown, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were bestowed upon Elaine S. Marks, education and social services advocate; Ralph Kaplan, owner of Kappy’s Fine Wine & Liquors; and Governor Patrick. Since August 2010, the university has awarded 528 master’s degrees. The student speech at the morning ceremony on May 21 was delivered by international student Hervé Mukeba Mukuna of the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Margaret A. McKenna, president of the Wal-Mart Foundation, delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were awarded to James T. Brett, president and CEO of The New England Council; James G. Crosby, founder of Crosby’s Marketplace and Ms. McKenna. At the May 21 afternoon ceremony, Juliana Silva of Brazil spoke on behalf of her fellow students; David Fanning, executive producer of PBS's Frontline, delivered the commencement address. Honorary degrees were awarded to Patricia A. Driscoll, COO of Girls Incorporated (Girls Inc.); Richard C. Bane, president, BaneCare Management LLC; and Mr. Fanning. Salem State awarded a total of 1,324 undergraduate degrees since August 2010.
At Our first “university” alumni weekend earlier this month we celebrated alumni weekend for the first time as a university. Over the course of three days, alumni, faculty and friends came back to reconnect and reminisce about their days at Salem State. The 2011 weekend lineup featured a variety of celebrations, including a theatre alumni reunion and all-star roast of retiring theatre professor Whitney “Whizz” White. Among the many ‘special’ reunions that took place were the following: the class of 1961’s 50th reunion; a reunion of the athletes of the 1980s; a reunion of the Salem State women’s basketball team that won the NCAA championship; a social work reunion on the waterfront; and a 40th reunion of our Salem State Preschool. Other memory-making events included a grand alumni reception at the Peabody Essex Museum; a pub crawl in honor of Salem State’s late economics professor Karl Wesolowski, and an alumni golf tournament. The weekend culminated with a farewell jazz brunch on Sunday. At each of these events, many friendships were re-established, new friends found, stories shared, and new memories made. Alumni weekend 2011 was a direct reflection of how our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends share their pride as part of Salem State University! View images from the weekend’s activities—do you. Recognizing high achievers academic excellence is cause for celebration, especially as we bring another academic year to its conclusion
We invite all of our alumni back to see first-hand what a vibrant institution the university is today. A solid alumni base is the foundation of a strong and competitive university and we ask that you stay connected by attending one of our many alumni, athletic or arts events. Our students are counting on your support as we reach the end of our fiscal year, June 30. Your gift today will not only commemorate confirmation of university status, it will also provide needed support for student life and learning at Salem State University
Reprinted from Salem State Newsletter
Some Material Reprinted with permission from Essex Heritage Newsletter
Monday, July 4, 2011
INDEPENDANCE DAY 2011
Partnership Grant Spotlight
Salisbury Completes Burial Ground Project Using a 2010 Essex Heritage Grant Update
With an Essex Heritage Partnership Grant, the Town of Salisbury recently created a baseline survey of the town's oldest cemetery: the Old Colonial Burial Ground laid out in 1639. The survey and boundary plan is a crucial first step towards developing a preservation plan for the cemetery, which is expected to serve as a model for the town's other historic burying grounds. In addition to identifying the cemetery's boundary, the survey also plotted the location of all headstones, monuments, and significant landscape features, including walls, fences, gates, roads, paths, large trees, major monuments and memorials
North Shore Elder Services Synopsis of Service
One of the organizations that I am proud to be serving as a board member is the North Shore Elder Services. At a recent meeting the senior management provided an overview to board members of their operation. They outlined the work they do with seniors in this region that vision was so important that I want to present that overview for your awareness. That overview follows:
For the first thirty-five years of this operation, we have served our communities primarily through the provision of programs and services funded by the Massachusetts Office of Elder Affairs that promotes the integrity, rights and independence of all seniors and their caregivers. Specifically we accomplish this through the provision of home care services, nursing assignments, protective services, information services, a nutrition program, a nursing facility ombudsman program, and an array of community services provided by volunteers (e.g., money management, medical advocacy, companion, and grocery shopping)
Now as economic and social conditions in this region continue to change, it is clear that NSES will need to continue to provide publicly financed core services that are of high effectiveness as efficiently as possible within budget constraints.
It is also clear, that in order to still be relevant and economically viable that other actions will be required in the time ahead. NSES must extend relationships within medical segments and to opportunities and challenges, and to Health Care sectors that are equally as responsive. It will be equally as important to DEVELOP MARKETPLACE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES THAT ADDRESS THE NEEDS AND DEMANDS OF OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR FAMILIES, WHO ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR PUBLICALLY-SUBSUDIZED PROGRAMS AND SERVICES, WHICH WILL GENERATE ADDITIONAL NET INCOME FOR NSES.
I am certain that as these initiatives are developed that the public will have ample opportunity to offer observations and provide input to the process. Because, I feel that this initiative is so important and that the growing elderly population is so important to this region, that from time to time, I will keep you current on the progress of this initiative
NSES “We Give Thanks” Awards and Nomination
Each year, The North Shore Elder Services in conjunction with Wicked Local, offers a series of awards that are presented at a dinner on September 15, 2012 at the Historic Hawthorne Hotel in Salem. The awards are provided to individuals and organizations that provide exceptional services to elders in this region. There are a number of categories where someone that you might think is a worthy candidate can be considered. The nominations are due in early August and additional information on the awards can be obtained by contacting Rhonda Gauthier electronically at rgauthier@nselder.org
ANDOVER FARMERS MARKET
In this space in recent postings, I have reported on the opening of Farmer’s markets in Beverly, Middleton and Salem, with more communities opening markets each week. This weeks announcement reports on the opening for its fifth year of the market in Andover. That outdoor market will be open every Saturday through October 8th from 12:30 until 4:30 pm on the grounds of the Andover Historical Society, and will feature goods from a wide variety of farmers, bakers and specialty items. This year, wine from farmer-wineries, if produced and properly licensed by the Commonwealth, may be sold at agricultural events, and the Andover market is so qualified.
North Andover Hires an Interim Town Manager.
With the resignation of Town Manager Mark Rees that was reported in this space a couple of postings ago. The Town of North Andover has hired an interim manager to replace Rees who has moved to the position of City Manager in Portland, Maine. The interim manager is James Purcell who retired earlier this year as the Town Manager of Norton, MA. Purcell has been hired to provide services to North Andover for 24 hours a week until a new Manager can be hired. Former Manager Rees has agreed to provide some level of continuing support to both the interim manager and the consultant who will assist the Town as they search for a full time replacement Manager.
Northern Essex Community College Building Named for retiring President Hartleb
I am certain that retiring President David Hartleb and his family were pleased and proud to learn that the Northern Essex Community College has named a building on that campus after the retiring President. David served on the Essex Heritage Board of Trustees for three complete terms and as he did at the College provided wonderful guidance and council for our work.
Methuen Music Recital
During the week of July 17-23 the Methuen Music Hall, that sensational facility, will participate in a series of 6 organ concerts. The feature concert will take place in Methuen on 7/20/11 when a recital sponsored by the American Guild of Organists will be held at 8:00 pm that evening. There will be a charge of $12 for adults and $5 for children for that concert, but the other five events that will be held in churches around the Boston area will be free of any charges. If you have never experienced a concert in that historic venue, you will be in for a treat if you were to attend the July 20th concert. For more information about the concert series contact www.bostonpoe.com
Salem Power Station Update
The City of Salem will offer a public hearing at the Bentley School at 25 Memorial Drive at 6:30 pm on Thursday, July 7, 2011. The hearing will provide interested Salem residents with the most current updates on the planning efforts to consider a reuse for the current Power Station slated to be closed in the future. City officials and a team of consultants have already begun to work on the development of a feasibility study for the soon to be closed power station. This session is designed to provide an update on progress to date, and there will also be the opportunity for public input at the session. There is a great deal of uncertainty connected with this site, as the city has no control over the site as the ownership of the property will remain in the hands of the present owner, Dominion Power until they choose a course of action. This process will not be resolved quickly and the public hearing scheduled for this week will simply be the first of many steps in a long process to determine the future of this site, and the long-term replacement of the new revenue that the city will need to keep the communities municipal financial budget balanced
Commonwealth Names Danvers Town Manager Marquis to Homeless Advisory Panel
It was excellent news to learn that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has named Danvers Town Manager Wayne Marquis to an advisory panel on Homelessness. In addition to representing the Town of Danvers, he will also be the representative of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. This board will deal with this issue which chaired by Lt. Governor Murray, and that advisory group reports to the Governor’s Interagency Council on Housing and Homelessness. Based on the recent influx of homeless families that are now being housed in motels in the Town of Danvers, adding the well organized and equally efficient Marquis to the group is a smart move, as he has a complete understanding of the homeless issue as it pertains to his community. At his initial meeting with the group, Marquis brought the motel issue to the table and had that matter labeled a priority for consideration.
Wayne Marquis has already proved his worth to this region, when he assumed the Chairmanship of the coalition that organized the project that will result in a new Regional Technical High School being built in the near future. I am certain that the Danvers Town Official will bring a level of competence and compassion to this issue that is currently having an impact on the town of Danvers.
Independence Day holiday
We hope that all of you had a pleasant and safe holiday, and enjoyed a community parade, concert, reading or viewed a display of fireworks. Whatever you did on the holiday, for the most part, the weather cooperated One of the premier fireworks displays in the region Danvers was delayed until Tuesday, due to some expected natural fireworks that never really materialized, but in general, it was a pleasant mid summer long holiday weekend. My late mother in law Marion Waldron would always offer us a bit of her sense of reality when she would advise us all on the holiday, that “the summer is over now that the 4th of July has arrived”. I certainly hope as I did every year while she was alive, that her forecast was wrong, as we have not had a reasonable share of summer weather at this time and need to have the season extended.
Salisbury Completes Burial Ground Project Using a 2010 Essex Heritage Grant Update
With an Essex Heritage Partnership Grant, the Town of Salisbury recently created a baseline survey of the town's oldest cemetery: the Old Colonial Burial Ground laid out in 1639. The survey and boundary plan is a crucial first step towards developing a preservation plan for the cemetery, which is expected to serve as a model for the town's other historic burying grounds. In addition to identifying the cemetery's boundary, the survey also plotted the location of all headstones, monuments, and significant landscape features, including walls, fences, gates, roads, paths, large trees, major monuments and memorials
North Shore Elder Services Synopsis of Service
One of the organizations that I am proud to be serving as a board member is the North Shore Elder Services. At a recent meeting the senior management provided an overview to board members of their operation. They outlined the work they do with seniors in this region that vision was so important that I want to present that overview for your awareness. That overview follows:
For the first thirty-five years of this operation, we have served our communities primarily through the provision of programs and services funded by the Massachusetts Office of Elder Affairs that promotes the integrity, rights and independence of all seniors and their caregivers. Specifically we accomplish this through the provision of home care services, nursing assignments, protective services, information services, a nutrition program, a nursing facility ombudsman program, and an array of community services provided by volunteers (e.g., money management, medical advocacy, companion, and grocery shopping)
Now as economic and social conditions in this region continue to change, it is clear that NSES will need to continue to provide publicly financed core services that are of high effectiveness as efficiently as possible within budget constraints.
It is also clear, that in order to still be relevant and economically viable that other actions will be required in the time ahead. NSES must extend relationships within medical segments and to opportunities and challenges, and to Health Care sectors that are equally as responsive. It will be equally as important to DEVELOP MARKETPLACE PROGRAMS AND SERVICES THAT ADDRESS THE NEEDS AND DEMANDS OF OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR FAMILIES, WHO ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR PUBLICALLY-SUBSUDIZED PROGRAMS AND SERVICES, WHICH WILL GENERATE ADDITIONAL NET INCOME FOR NSES.
I am certain that as these initiatives are developed that the public will have ample opportunity to offer observations and provide input to the process. Because, I feel that this initiative is so important and that the growing elderly population is so important to this region, that from time to time, I will keep you current on the progress of this initiative
NSES “We Give Thanks” Awards and Nomination
Each year, The North Shore Elder Services in conjunction with Wicked Local, offers a series of awards that are presented at a dinner on September 15, 2012 at the Historic Hawthorne Hotel in Salem. The awards are provided to individuals and organizations that provide exceptional services to elders in this region. There are a number of categories where someone that you might think is a worthy candidate can be considered. The nominations are due in early August and additional information on the awards can be obtained by contacting Rhonda Gauthier electronically at rgauthier@nselder.org
ANDOVER FARMERS MARKET
In this space in recent postings, I have reported on the opening of Farmer’s markets in Beverly, Middleton and Salem, with more communities opening markets each week. This weeks announcement reports on the opening for its fifth year of the market in Andover. That outdoor market will be open every Saturday through October 8th from 12:30 until 4:30 pm on the grounds of the Andover Historical Society, and will feature goods from a wide variety of farmers, bakers and specialty items. This year, wine from farmer-wineries, if produced and properly licensed by the Commonwealth, may be sold at agricultural events, and the Andover market is so qualified.
North Andover Hires an Interim Town Manager.
With the resignation of Town Manager Mark Rees that was reported in this space a couple of postings ago. The Town of North Andover has hired an interim manager to replace Rees who has moved to the position of City Manager in Portland, Maine. The interim manager is James Purcell who retired earlier this year as the Town Manager of Norton, MA. Purcell has been hired to provide services to North Andover for 24 hours a week until a new Manager can be hired. Former Manager Rees has agreed to provide some level of continuing support to both the interim manager and the consultant who will assist the Town as they search for a full time replacement Manager.
Northern Essex Community College Building Named for retiring President Hartleb
I am certain that retiring President David Hartleb and his family were pleased and proud to learn that the Northern Essex Community College has named a building on that campus after the retiring President. David served on the Essex Heritage Board of Trustees for three complete terms and as he did at the College provided wonderful guidance and council for our work.
Methuen Music Recital
During the week of July 17-23 the Methuen Music Hall, that sensational facility, will participate in a series of 6 organ concerts. The feature concert will take place in Methuen on 7/20/11 when a recital sponsored by the American Guild of Organists will be held at 8:00 pm that evening. There will be a charge of $12 for adults and $5 for children for that concert, but the other five events that will be held in churches around the Boston area will be free of any charges. If you have never experienced a concert in that historic venue, you will be in for a treat if you were to attend the July 20th concert. For more information about the concert series contact www.bostonpoe.com
Salem Power Station Update
The City of Salem will offer a public hearing at the Bentley School at 25 Memorial Drive at 6:30 pm on Thursday, July 7, 2011. The hearing will provide interested Salem residents with the most current updates on the planning efforts to consider a reuse for the current Power Station slated to be closed in the future. City officials and a team of consultants have already begun to work on the development of a feasibility study for the soon to be closed power station. This session is designed to provide an update on progress to date, and there will also be the opportunity for public input at the session. There is a great deal of uncertainty connected with this site, as the city has no control over the site as the ownership of the property will remain in the hands of the present owner, Dominion Power until they choose a course of action. This process will not be resolved quickly and the public hearing scheduled for this week will simply be the first of many steps in a long process to determine the future of this site, and the long-term replacement of the new revenue that the city will need to keep the communities municipal financial budget balanced
Commonwealth Names Danvers Town Manager Marquis to Homeless Advisory Panel
It was excellent news to learn that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has named Danvers Town Manager Wayne Marquis to an advisory panel on Homelessness. In addition to representing the Town of Danvers, he will also be the representative of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. This board will deal with this issue which chaired by Lt. Governor Murray, and that advisory group reports to the Governor’s Interagency Council on Housing and Homelessness. Based on the recent influx of homeless families that are now being housed in motels in the Town of Danvers, adding the well organized and equally efficient Marquis to the group is a smart move, as he has a complete understanding of the homeless issue as it pertains to his community. At his initial meeting with the group, Marquis brought the motel issue to the table and had that matter labeled a priority for consideration.
Wayne Marquis has already proved his worth to this region, when he assumed the Chairmanship of the coalition that organized the project that will result in a new Regional Technical High School being built in the near future. I am certain that the Danvers Town Official will bring a level of competence and compassion to this issue that is currently having an impact on the town of Danvers.
Independence Day holiday
We hope that all of you had a pleasant and safe holiday, and enjoyed a community parade, concert, reading or viewed a display of fireworks. Whatever you did on the holiday, for the most part, the weather cooperated One of the premier fireworks displays in the region Danvers was delayed until Tuesday, due to some expected natural fireworks that never really materialized, but in general, it was a pleasant mid summer long holiday weekend. My late mother in law Marion Waldron would always offer us a bit of her sense of reality when she would advise us all on the holiday, that “the summer is over now that the 4th of July has arrived”. I certainly hope as I did every year while she was alive, that her forecast was wrong, as we have not had a reasonable share of summer weather at this time and need to have the season extended.
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