Essex Heritage to offer Member only event this Winter
Essex Heritage will be offering three members only events that mirror the kinds of events offered during the annual Trails and Sails weekends between now and the end of the winter season. The events will be held in Salem, Georgetown and Gloucester. For more information on the events and how easy it can be to participate if you become a sustaining member of Essex Heritage, please visit www.essexheritge.org.
Merrimack River Eagle Festival!
On Saturday, February 11, celebrate the seasonal return of bald eagles to the Merrimack Valley with the seventh annual Merrimack River Eagle Festival! In the deep winter of February, when everything else is frozen and asleep, the Newburyport area along the river is alive with the spectacular sight of wintering bald eagles flying, fishing, and sitting in the sun. Staff and volunteers from Joppa Flats and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge help visitors find eagles and other winter specialties and answer questions about behaviors and habitats. Visit eagle hot spots at your own speed or go on an eagle tour to see birds in the wild; come indoors for nature activities or to see an up-close view of rehabilitated hawks, owls, and eagles. This is a great opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the magnificence of nature by observing bald eagles and the habitats they need to survive. Find out more about available events, tour and demonstrations here.
North Shore Elder Services has developed a new program that will provide ongoing services to area seniors and the disabled. The outline of that program will be “kicked off” in March.
The Longevity Connection
Early this spring North Shore Elder Services will open the doors of The Longevity Connection. This innovative and unique enterprise fills the need for an all-encompassing, accessible, multi-service location providing seniors, disabled persons, family members, and caregivers easy onsite access to a wide range of proven products and services in one convenient place.
North Shore communities are experiencing tremendous older population growth with rates much higher than the state average. By 2035, as Baby Boomers grow older, Massachusetts population projections will have more people over the age of sixty than under eighteen. The purpose of The Longevity Connection is to assist the growing population of older adults, disabled persons, and their family members and caregivers finding necessary services and products at good value.
A concierge, educated in gerontology and experienced with care giving, welcomes each person to The Longevity Connection, providing information and guidance in determining the right type of resources. The Longevity Connection features professional experts in the specialties of health, financial, and legal services, available daily for a free consultation and ongoing client services. An extensive schedule of free presentations on relevant topics is offered. Representatives from area healthcare providers serving the North Shore are available onsite. The Longevity Connection provides informational material on a full array of care facilities, programs, services, and support options available on the North Shore. Recommended books on subjects such as caregiving, chronic diseases, retirement planning, and healthy living are available for purchase. A lending library containing selected resources may also be accessed. The concierge can assist with an Internet search for more extensive information via free computer kiosks.
The Longevity Connection offers a specialized marketplace with expert guidance for a wide array of routine or specialized needs such as hearing and communication equipment; products for persons with sight impairment; adaptive clothing and footwear; home maintenance, safety, and modifications; home medical alert systems; nutrition supplementation; incontinence care supplies; and brain fitness. The Longevity Connection provides a private, respectful environment to gather information, share experiences, and purchase needed goods and services. An “Inspired” Gift Shop features items perfect for hard-to-buy for seniors, a convenient selection of gifts and cards for caregivers, “re-gifted” collectible items such as Hummel figurines and crystal ware at affordable prices, and gifts with “A Special Connection” that have a social purpose.
Make The Longevity Connection your connection to all your long term service and support needs.
The Longevity Connection will be located at 152 Sylvan Street in Danvers, adjacent to the Liberty Tree Mall with easy access from routes 1, 128, 114, and 95. Ample free parking is available. For more information, call 978 750 4540.
North Shore Chamber
From time to time it certainly seems appropriate for Essex Heritage to offer its sincere thanks for their continuing generosity as they make their board room available to ENHC for our quarterly board meeting and have provided that space for a number of years. I also want to plug one of their most important and well attended events, the annual Business Expo scheduled on March 6, 2012. The event is always a wonderful networking opportunity with 100 exhibitors and 2500 attendees actively participating in the one day event. For more information on available booth space or tickets contact the North Shore Chamber at www.northshorechamber.org.
Essex Heritage also wants to take this opportunity to both congratulate and wish all the best to Ms. Karen Andreas, the publisher of the Salem News as she has been named the Chairman Elect of the Chamber. Karen has been committed supporter of this region during the two decades that she has been connected to the Salem News and became the Chairman at the annual meeting in 2011. During Karen’s tenure at the newspaper she has done virtually every job at the paper and has played an important role in their continuing success,
Salem Partnership Twenty Fifth Annual Meeting
This week, I received a notice of the date and features of the Annual Meeting of the Salem Partnership. The meeting will be held on April 3, 2012 at the Hawthorne hotel and will feature a tribute to retiring Senator Fred Berry. For more information or to purchase tickets contact the Salem Partnership Executive director Patricia Zaido at www.salempartnership.org
MBTA Likely to cut back Services for Disabled
The following information on both a cutback of services and increases in fares on the MBTA RIDE was provided by the North Shore Elder Services and is provided here because of my particular interests in actions that impact the disabled
The release of plans to increase fares for people with disabilities in the face of the overall work of the Governor's 530 Commission is only one affront.
This proposal also comes at a time when the T is implementing a new methodology for determining eligibility for The Ride. The introduction of the narrow Americans with Disabilities Act definition of eligibility (reducing the eligibility to those living within 3⁄4 mile of a fixed-route system) may have more impact than simple fare increase. People with disabilities that depend on The Ride to get to work may find themselves unable to afford to live in the "premium fare" area and see daily rates increase from the current $4.00 to $24.00. A five-day commute may well take 50% of more of take home pay for many.
There are additional potential impacts. A person may have a $4 commute to get to an appointment only to find the return is $12.00 because the drop off point was outside the 3⁄4 mile limit.
The inclusion of new application forms that are not yet determined to be accessible and a personal interview by T staff threatens the ability of many people with disabilities to even use the system. There are no guarantees that the T staff will even remotely be qualified to determine the impact of visible disabilities such as being Blind or Deaf-Blind, much less the hidden disabilities involving mental health, muscular sclerosis, or cognitive disabilities. Advocates are adding this issue to the list of topics in a search for legal resources to combat injustice from actions of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Advocates will NOT support the implementation of tiered fare based upon geography within the MBTA district. This was a point discussed, argued, and agreed to over 20 years ago by advocates and representative of the T. We will not allow these hard won services to disappear because of bad management decisions by the Patrick Administration. Groups are willing to discuss a fair fare proposal where distance traveled may result in a graduated fare. The Ride costs, while increasing, are not the primary cause of the deficit of the T. Instead, blame goes squarely on the T's being forced to assume Big Dig deficits and declining revenue from the sales tax. Many disability advocates, responding to the Governor's EO530 Commission, have agreed that appropriate fare increases are acceptable possibly even based upon distance traveled. There have suggestions for expanding the use of private, accessible taxis, using incentives to increase fixed-route usage should be implemented, and addressing the problems of cancellations.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Friday, January 27, 2012
ESSEX Happenings 1.26.12
ESSEX HAPPENINGS 1.26.12
Essex Heritage Annual Audit Report Presented
Earlier this week, the accounting firm of Parent, Mc Laughlin and Nangle presented its annual audit report to the Essex Heritage Audit committee and without providing an undue amount of financial data in this update, the result of the report was that all was found to be in order and there were no unusual findings that required action. It is always most comforting each year to learn that the results of the audit was positive. I was pleased to be able to participate electronically in the presentation and the Chief Financial Officer Susan Lippman should once again be congratulated for her work in managing the finances of Essex Heritage.
Please review the following information re-printed from the most recent Essex Heritage Newsletter that highlights activities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and Tourist Summit sponsored by NORTH OF BOSTON CVB
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Byway Featured at Tourism Summit
The coastal byway takes center stage during a presentation on regional efforts to promote visitation to the North Shore's coastal communities. Organized by the North of Bo stone CVB, the half-day summit is on Friday, February 3 in Peabody. Learn more here or for additional details, see article below.
Old Newbury Bonfire
Get outdoors and toast winter at the second annual community bonfire set to take place on Saturday, January 14, (3:00-9:00) just off the byway in Newbury. Don't miss seeing the historic Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm while you're there! For more information.
Winter Weekends at the Philips House, Salem
Films, food, and fun, what a better way to learn about the fascinating Phillips family of Salem. Saturdays through February 25 at their former house on historic Chestnut Street. For more information click here.
North of Boston CVB Tourism Summit
Don't miss the 6th Annual North of Boston CVB Tourism Summit on Friday, February 3, 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM at the Boston Marriott Peabody at 8A Centennial Drive, Peabody, MA. Join the North of Boston CVB for an exciting day with compelling speakers, educational seminars and edgy topics. The NBCVB Annual Tourism Summit (Conference) is the region's largest industry event, bringing together key personnel from all public and private tourism sectors. From the Merrimack Valley to the region's southern gateway, all businesses can profit from this educational program designed to enhance regional identity and promote tourism opportunities. Don't miss this premier networking event! Summit Highlights include:
• New Casino Bill & Its Impact on the North Shore;
• Mini-Grants & North of Boston Marketing for 2012;
• Breakout sessions that will leave you inspired!
Find out more and register here.
Update from Danvers Historical Society
In the last couple of days, I attended a Board Meeting of the Danvers Historical Society. At the meeting the availability of Glen Magna Farms was updated and the calendar for weddings that have become most popular is filling up fast, so if an event at that historic venue is on your wish list for 2012, I would encourage you to act quickly before all of the prime dates are filled.
There was also a discussion about the availability of the society’s hallmark building, the iconic Tapley Hall adjacent to the society’s headquarters on Page Street in the downtown section of Danvers. That special location is now available for rent and to get more information about the location please visit awww.danvershistory.org .
Innovator of the year
It was very nice to hear that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has decided to name the Danvers Recreation Department their Innovator of the Year for their efforts to create Camp Sunshine. That program was designed to provide a public summer camp program for dozens of homeless youngsters that were placed in motels in that community. The program was assisted by contributions from local residents and businesses that supplemented the funding and labor support provided by the Town. Congratulations to all connected with this effort.
Bill Bates has worn a Number of Hats in Danvers
For a number of years, Bill Bates has served in a number of capacities, but he recently announced that he will be turning in his school board set when this present term, his third, is completed. In addition to his school role, Bill has served for many years as a Town Meeting Member. Full time, for the last couple of years Bill has served as The District Coordinator at the State House on Beacon Hill for State Representative Ted Spiliotis who represents Danvers and other adjacent communities. In his role as a Town Meeting Member Bill is a frequent attendee at Finance Committee meetings, is always most cordial and courteous, and always does his homework. Congratulation Bill on many jobs well done and I am certain you will continue to play an important role in the local political scene.
Please see an important notice about an upcoming meeting from North Shore Elder Services. This initiative is important to NSES as they offer a program to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and transgender segment of the elder market in this region.
LGBT Elders in a Changing World
An interdisciplinary Practice and Policy Conference for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and transgender Working with older adults and caregivers
Friday March 16, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Salem State University School of Social Work
Marsh Conference Center, Central Campus
Salem, Massachusetts
Keynote Speaker:
Judith Bradford, Ph.D., Director, Center for Population Research in LGBT Health, The Fenway Institute
Screening of Gen Silent with discussion session moderated by filmmaker Stu Maddox
15 workshops covering programming and direct service, HIV and aging, transgender aging, bereavement, public policy, and more topics
Presented by:
LGBT Aging Project
North Shore Elder Services
Salem State University
Cost: $95 includes conference and lunch
$45 for seniors (60+) and students with current student ID
$30 4.5 Social Work CEU’s
Registration: www.lgbt2012.eventbrite.com
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem Elects new Officers
At the annual meeting of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem held at the club headquarters last week the following slate of officers were elected to serve in 2012. I was unable to attend the meeting, but offer my best wishes to those elected and know that they will serve the mission and the membership of the club in a most professional manner.
President: John Neely
Vice President: Eduardo Gonzalez
Treasurer: Suzanne Gruhl
Secretary: Andrew Sousa
Weekend Sports Activity
After the weekend snow, it was nice to have a wide variety of sports activity on the local TV to watch. The best of the viewing was the exciting Patriots win that came down to just about the final play. For this game the defense clearly picked up the offense, and now the local entry heads to their 5th Super Bowl in the last 11 seasons on the first weekend in February. The Bruins won 3 out of 4 possible points over the weekend and but for a final minute loss against the Rangers would have had a chance for one more point. They moved back into first place in the conference and on Monday they visited the White House in Washington to celebrate last years Stanley cup win.
As a former avid tennis player, the Australian Open was great viewing and both my wife and I enjoy tennis especially when it is one of the four major events. Even the Celtics won a pair of games over the period. I even had the chance to watch Notre Dame University upset the previously unbeaten Syracuse University basketball team. In that game the freshman Pat Connaughton who last year led St. John’s Prep to a State title played a key role in the upset victory.
Essex Heritage Annual Audit Report Presented
Earlier this week, the accounting firm of Parent, Mc Laughlin and Nangle presented its annual audit report to the Essex Heritage Audit committee and without providing an undue amount of financial data in this update, the result of the report was that all was found to be in order and there were no unusual findings that required action. It is always most comforting each year to learn that the results of the audit was positive. I was pleased to be able to participate electronically in the presentation and the Chief Financial Officer Susan Lippman should once again be congratulated for her work in managing the finances of Essex Heritage.
Please review the following information re-printed from the most recent Essex Heritage Newsletter that highlights activities along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and Tourist Summit sponsored by NORTH OF BOSTON CVB
Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway
The 85-mile coastal route from Lynn to Newburyport
Byway Featured at Tourism Summit
The coastal byway takes center stage during a presentation on regional efforts to promote visitation to the North Shore's coastal communities. Organized by the North of Bo stone CVB, the half-day summit is on Friday, February 3 in Peabody. Learn more here or for additional details, see article below.
Old Newbury Bonfire
Get outdoors and toast winter at the second annual community bonfire set to take place on Saturday, January 14, (3:00-9:00) just off the byway in Newbury. Don't miss seeing the historic Spencer-Peirce-Little Farm while you're there! For more information.
Winter Weekends at the Philips House, Salem
Films, food, and fun, what a better way to learn about the fascinating Phillips family of Salem. Saturdays through February 25 at their former house on historic Chestnut Street. For more information click here.
North of Boston CVB Tourism Summit
Don't miss the 6th Annual North of Boston CVB Tourism Summit on Friday, February 3, 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM at the Boston Marriott Peabody at 8A Centennial Drive, Peabody, MA. Join the North of Boston CVB for an exciting day with compelling speakers, educational seminars and edgy topics. The NBCVB Annual Tourism Summit (Conference) is the region's largest industry event, bringing together key personnel from all public and private tourism sectors. From the Merrimack Valley to the region's southern gateway, all businesses can profit from this educational program designed to enhance regional identity and promote tourism opportunities. Don't miss this premier networking event! Summit Highlights include:
• New Casino Bill & Its Impact on the North Shore;
• Mini-Grants & North of Boston Marketing for 2012;
• Breakout sessions that will leave you inspired!
Find out more and register here.
Update from Danvers Historical Society
In the last couple of days, I attended a Board Meeting of the Danvers Historical Society. At the meeting the availability of Glen Magna Farms was updated and the calendar for weddings that have become most popular is filling up fast, so if an event at that historic venue is on your wish list for 2012, I would encourage you to act quickly before all of the prime dates are filled.
There was also a discussion about the availability of the society’s hallmark building, the iconic Tapley Hall adjacent to the society’s headquarters on Page Street in the downtown section of Danvers. That special location is now available for rent and to get more information about the location please visit awww.danvershistory.org .
Innovator of the year
It was very nice to hear that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has decided to name the Danvers Recreation Department their Innovator of the Year for their efforts to create Camp Sunshine. That program was designed to provide a public summer camp program for dozens of homeless youngsters that were placed in motels in that community. The program was assisted by contributions from local residents and businesses that supplemented the funding and labor support provided by the Town. Congratulations to all connected with this effort.
Bill Bates has worn a Number of Hats in Danvers
For a number of years, Bill Bates has served in a number of capacities, but he recently announced that he will be turning in his school board set when this present term, his third, is completed. In addition to his school role, Bill has served for many years as a Town Meeting Member. Full time, for the last couple of years Bill has served as The District Coordinator at the State House on Beacon Hill for State Representative Ted Spiliotis who represents Danvers and other adjacent communities. In his role as a Town Meeting Member Bill is a frequent attendee at Finance Committee meetings, is always most cordial and courteous, and always does his homework. Congratulation Bill on many jobs well done and I am certain you will continue to play an important role in the local political scene.
Please see an important notice about an upcoming meeting from North Shore Elder Services. This initiative is important to NSES as they offer a program to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and transgender segment of the elder market in this region.
LGBT Elders in a Changing World
An interdisciplinary Practice and Policy Conference for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and transgender Working with older adults and caregivers
Friday March 16, 2012
8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Salem State University School of Social Work
Marsh Conference Center, Central Campus
Salem, Massachusetts
Keynote Speaker:
Judith Bradford, Ph.D., Director, Center for Population Research in LGBT Health, The Fenway Institute
Screening of Gen Silent with discussion session moderated by filmmaker Stu Maddox
15 workshops covering programming and direct service, HIV and aging, transgender aging, bereavement, public policy, and more topics
Presented by:
LGBT Aging Project
North Shore Elder Services
Salem State University
Cost: $95 includes conference and lunch
$45 for seniors (60+) and students with current student ID
$30 4.5 Social Work CEU’s
Registration: www.lgbt2012.eventbrite.com
Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem Elects new Officers
At the annual meeting of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem held at the club headquarters last week the following slate of officers were elected to serve in 2012. I was unable to attend the meeting, but offer my best wishes to those elected and know that they will serve the mission and the membership of the club in a most professional manner.
President: John Neely
Vice President: Eduardo Gonzalez
Treasurer: Suzanne Gruhl
Secretary: Andrew Sousa
Weekend Sports Activity
After the weekend snow, it was nice to have a wide variety of sports activity on the local TV to watch. The best of the viewing was the exciting Patriots win that came down to just about the final play. For this game the defense clearly picked up the offense, and now the local entry heads to their 5th Super Bowl in the last 11 seasons on the first weekend in February. The Bruins won 3 out of 4 possible points over the weekend and but for a final minute loss against the Rangers would have had a chance for one more point. They moved back into first place in the conference and on Monday they visited the White House in Washington to celebrate last years Stanley cup win.
As a former avid tennis player, the Australian Open was great viewing and both my wife and I enjoy tennis especially when it is one of the four major events. Even the Celtics won a pair of games over the period. I even had the chance to watch Notre Dame University upset the previously unbeaten Syracuse University basketball team. In that game the freshman Pat Connaughton who last year led St. John’s Prep to a State title played a key role in the upset victory.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
eSSEX Happenings 1.24.12
I remain very humbled that Essex Heritage has decided to honor me as their Heritage Hero for 2012. I reluctantly reprint an article from the recent ENHC newsletter that also provides information on sponsorship opportunities and how ticket reservations can be made for that event generously sponsored by Salem Five Bank.
May 9, 2012 Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner Honoring Thomas M. Leonard
Essex Heritage and the National Park Service are pleased to honor Thomas M. Leonard on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the fifth annual Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner! This celebration recognizes the special contributions of individuals across Essex County whose passions embody the mission of Essex Heritage - to protect and preserve the region's rich historic, cultural and natural resources.
A Salem native and enduring advocate for heritage preservation in Essex County, Tom's long and distinguished career with Salem Five reinforced his pursuits as a strong community leader. Tom is a committed supporter of local organizations in need, and currently serves on a number of non-profit boards such as the Danvers Council on Aging, Danvers Historical Society, North Shore Elder Services, Town of Danvers Finance Committee, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, Salem Rotary, Salem Partnership. He is President Emeritus of the Essex National Heritage Commission. In addition, Mr. Leonard's 65-year relationship with St. John's Preparatory School includes service as a committee chair, Board Trustee, and recipient of a distinguished alumni award. Mr. Leonard was elected to the school's Hall of Honor and remains a Trustee Emeritus. Tom Leonard's lifetime achievements embody the qualities that define 'Heritage Hero.'
Please join us to honor Tom! Tickets are available for purchase online and we welcome your interest in all available ad and sponsorship opportunities.
Thanks to Salem Five for their generous commitment as the Presenting Sponsor of this event.
Downtown Parking Issues
In the most recent Sunday issue of the Boston Globe, there was a most insightful issue about parking issues in downtown areas. The story focused on an unusual principal that advocated that parking spaces in our downtown areas should be priced based on their desirability. The principal espoused in the concept indicated that our present downtown parking problems stem from the fact that we have too many spaces priced at too low a cost. For the most part, parking meters in our local downtowns need to be re-priced with the most valuable spaces priced higher so that the spaces in the most accessible places will turn over more frequently. Most parking meters in our local downtowns are priced on average at about .25 cents for every 12 minutes or about $1.25 per hour. At that price it is no wonder that it is difficult to find a space close to the shopping in our major urban centers. People take a convenient space in the downtown and then do not, in many cases, make any attempt to move from that location and in many cases sit in that same spot all day and feed the meter. That process clearly defeats the process of turnover of the spaces and less spots are available at any point in time. The story in the recent Sunday paper indicated that the urban communities should consider raising the prices on the most valuable spots, and thereby make more spaces available. The City of Salem is in the process of instituting a program like the one described in that urban setting. It will be interesting to follow the progress of that plan to see if more spaces in the most valuable parts of downtown Salem become available. Parking in locations not directly adjacent to the primary locations in the immediate downtown will not be as expensive and will hopefully encourage shoppers who can park in a somewhat more distant part of the city and walk to their destination will be rewarded with a less expensive cost. That proposed plan will for those folks willing to walk a bit more distant also be beneficial to their general health as well. This plan will not work for everyone, as those that have a disability will continue to have to look for a “handy” location and I would anticipate all of these plans will include a continuing fair number of parking locations for those with handicaps. We will continue to follow this issue to see if the program as planned will work and open up even more convenient parking spaces in those downtowns that consider such programs. Salem has also put a bike share program in place in that city and that program would be a plus for a city that adopts such a plan.
Recent Population Increases Allow Danvers to increase the Number of Town Meeting Members
The recent 2010 census has indicated that there has been a five percent increase in the population of the town and that increase will now allow the town to dramatically increase the number of elected Town Meeting members. The total population of Danvers has now grown to 26,493. The number of Town Meeting members in the community to be elected will now be increased by three members in each of the Towns precincts and the final number of members that will be elected at the May 2012 meeting will be 144 members. This will represent an increase of 24 up from 120 members that has been in place since 1992 when the number went from 96 to the current level of 120. If anyone reading this report has an interest in serving in one of these spots, nomination papers can be obtained at the Town Clerks Office on Feb 1, 2012 and papers must be returned by March 13, 2012 to be considered. For anyone interested in serving as a Town Meeting Member in Danvers, this is a wonderful opportunity to participate in this truly democratic process.
Grange in Bradford Elects new Leaders
There are not alot of Grange Organizations still operating in this region. The ones that are active still play a valuable role as they continue to focus much of their efforts on the preservation of the agricultural efforts in this region. Several years ago I was lucky enough to make a presentation on the mission of Essex Heritage that was very well received to the combined Danvers-Beverly Grange organization. That evening I shared a potluck dinner with the membership prior to my presentation and I learned quite a bit about their work that evening. Just recently the Bradford group, that is one of five regional organization, connected nationally with the agricultural organization that was founded in 1867. Their meeting was set to elect a new group of officers to serve this year. The group holds monthly meetings at the Bradford Country store. For more information about the organization and their meetings contact www.bradfordgrange@verizon.net
Volunteers Tackle Public Project
In a most unusual project residents and local businesses donated labor and material to complete a much needed project in the Town of Newbury. The long closed DPW garage has been brought back to the point that it can now be occupied after several years of non use. This is both a wonderful and unique example of a pubic private partnership that saves public tax expenditures and demonstrates how a community and its residents can work together most successfully, to complete a needed project.
Town of Marblehead Selects a new Town Administrator
The Board of Selectmen in the seaside community recently extended an offer and hired a new Town Administrator replacing the long time Administrator Tony Sasso. The new senior administrator will be Jeff Chelgren who at present is the town of Wenham’s administrator. The runner up for the postion was Thomas Younger who is currently serving as the interim Manager of Ipswich while that community seeks a permanent manager to replace Bob Merkle who moved on to a new position in Maine.
There has been a great deal of movement in recent months as many of the Chief Administrative officers of communities in this region have been active in improving their job opportunities, We will continue to monitor these changes in the region as the leadership of the communities in this region are the people Essex Heritage interacts with regularly as some of our primary partners in our mission to help preserve the historic, cultural and natural resources of Essex County.
As I observe the multiple leadership changes occurring in this region, as a resident and participant in the municipal process in Danvers, I am always struck by the long term, continuing professional management of that community which they enjoy with Manager Wayne Marquis, that certainly helps provide the ongoing positive leadership to that fast growing community.
May 9, 2012 Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner Honoring Thomas M. Leonard
Essex Heritage and the National Park Service are pleased to honor Thomas M. Leonard on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the fifth annual Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner! This celebration recognizes the special contributions of individuals across Essex County whose passions embody the mission of Essex Heritage - to protect and preserve the region's rich historic, cultural and natural resources.
A Salem native and enduring advocate for heritage preservation in Essex County, Tom's long and distinguished career with Salem Five reinforced his pursuits as a strong community leader. Tom is a committed supporter of local organizations in need, and currently serves on a number of non-profit boards such as the Danvers Council on Aging, Danvers Historical Society, North Shore Elder Services, Town of Danvers Finance Committee, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, Salem Rotary, Salem Partnership. He is President Emeritus of the Essex National Heritage Commission. In addition, Mr. Leonard's 65-year relationship with St. John's Preparatory School includes service as a committee chair, Board Trustee, and recipient of a distinguished alumni award. Mr. Leonard was elected to the school's Hall of Honor and remains a Trustee Emeritus. Tom Leonard's lifetime achievements embody the qualities that define 'Heritage Hero.'
Please join us to honor Tom! Tickets are available for purchase online and we welcome your interest in all available ad and sponsorship opportunities.
Thanks to Salem Five for their generous commitment as the Presenting Sponsor of this event.
Downtown Parking Issues
In the most recent Sunday issue of the Boston Globe, there was a most insightful issue about parking issues in downtown areas. The story focused on an unusual principal that advocated that parking spaces in our downtown areas should be priced based on their desirability. The principal espoused in the concept indicated that our present downtown parking problems stem from the fact that we have too many spaces priced at too low a cost. For the most part, parking meters in our local downtowns need to be re-priced with the most valuable spaces priced higher so that the spaces in the most accessible places will turn over more frequently. Most parking meters in our local downtowns are priced on average at about .25 cents for every 12 minutes or about $1.25 per hour. At that price it is no wonder that it is difficult to find a space close to the shopping in our major urban centers. People take a convenient space in the downtown and then do not, in many cases, make any attempt to move from that location and in many cases sit in that same spot all day and feed the meter. That process clearly defeats the process of turnover of the spaces and less spots are available at any point in time. The story in the recent Sunday paper indicated that the urban communities should consider raising the prices on the most valuable spots, and thereby make more spaces available. The City of Salem is in the process of instituting a program like the one described in that urban setting. It will be interesting to follow the progress of that plan to see if more spaces in the most valuable parts of downtown Salem become available. Parking in locations not directly adjacent to the primary locations in the immediate downtown will not be as expensive and will hopefully encourage shoppers who can park in a somewhat more distant part of the city and walk to their destination will be rewarded with a less expensive cost. That proposed plan will for those folks willing to walk a bit more distant also be beneficial to their general health as well. This plan will not work for everyone, as those that have a disability will continue to have to look for a “handy” location and I would anticipate all of these plans will include a continuing fair number of parking locations for those with handicaps. We will continue to follow this issue to see if the program as planned will work and open up even more convenient parking spaces in those downtowns that consider such programs. Salem has also put a bike share program in place in that city and that program would be a plus for a city that adopts such a plan.
Recent Population Increases Allow Danvers to increase the Number of Town Meeting Members
The recent 2010 census has indicated that there has been a five percent increase in the population of the town and that increase will now allow the town to dramatically increase the number of elected Town Meeting members. The total population of Danvers has now grown to 26,493. The number of Town Meeting members in the community to be elected will now be increased by three members in each of the Towns precincts and the final number of members that will be elected at the May 2012 meeting will be 144 members. This will represent an increase of 24 up from 120 members that has been in place since 1992 when the number went from 96 to the current level of 120. If anyone reading this report has an interest in serving in one of these spots, nomination papers can be obtained at the Town Clerks Office on Feb 1, 2012 and papers must be returned by March 13, 2012 to be considered. For anyone interested in serving as a Town Meeting Member in Danvers, this is a wonderful opportunity to participate in this truly democratic process.
Grange in Bradford Elects new Leaders
There are not alot of Grange Organizations still operating in this region. The ones that are active still play a valuable role as they continue to focus much of their efforts on the preservation of the agricultural efforts in this region. Several years ago I was lucky enough to make a presentation on the mission of Essex Heritage that was very well received to the combined Danvers-Beverly Grange organization. That evening I shared a potluck dinner with the membership prior to my presentation and I learned quite a bit about their work that evening. Just recently the Bradford group, that is one of five regional organization, connected nationally with the agricultural organization that was founded in 1867. Their meeting was set to elect a new group of officers to serve this year. The group holds monthly meetings at the Bradford Country store. For more information about the organization and their meetings contact www.bradfordgrange@verizon.net
Volunteers Tackle Public Project
In a most unusual project residents and local businesses donated labor and material to complete a much needed project in the Town of Newbury. The long closed DPW garage has been brought back to the point that it can now be occupied after several years of non use. This is both a wonderful and unique example of a pubic private partnership that saves public tax expenditures and demonstrates how a community and its residents can work together most successfully, to complete a needed project.
Town of Marblehead Selects a new Town Administrator
The Board of Selectmen in the seaside community recently extended an offer and hired a new Town Administrator replacing the long time Administrator Tony Sasso. The new senior administrator will be Jeff Chelgren who at present is the town of Wenham’s administrator. The runner up for the postion was Thomas Younger who is currently serving as the interim Manager of Ipswich while that community seeks a permanent manager to replace Bob Merkle who moved on to a new position in Maine.
There has been a great deal of movement in recent months as many of the Chief Administrative officers of communities in this region have been active in improving their job opportunities, We will continue to monitor these changes in the region as the leadership of the communities in this region are the people Essex Heritage interacts with regularly as some of our primary partners in our mission to help preserve the historic, cultural and natural resources of Essex County.
As I observe the multiple leadership changes occurring in this region, as a resident and participant in the municipal process in Danvers, I am always struck by the long term, continuing professional management of that community which they enjoy with Manager Wayne Marquis, that certainly helps provide the ongoing positive leadership to that fast growing community.
eSSEX Happenings 1.24.12
I remain very humbled that Essex Heritage has decided to honor me as their Heritage Hero for 2012. I reluctantly reprint an article from the recent ENHC newsletter that also provides information on sponsorship opportunities and how ticket reservations can be made for that event generously sponsored by Salem Five Bank.
May 9, 2012 Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner Honoring Thomas M. Leonard
Essex Heritage and the National Park Service are pleased to honor Thomas M. Leonard on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the fifth annual Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner! This celebration recognizes the special contributions of individuals across Essex County whose passions embody the mission of Essex Heritage - to protect and preserve the region's rich historic, cultural and natural resources.
A Salem native and enduring advocate for heritage preservation in Essex County, Tom's long and distinguished career with Salem Five reinforced his pursuits as a strong community leader. Tom is a committed supporter of local organizations in need, and currently serves on a number of non-profit boards such as the Danvers Council on Aging, Danvers Historical Society, North Shore Elder Services, Town of Danvers Finance Committee, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, Salem Rotary, Salem Partnership. He is President Emeritus of the Essex National Heritage Commission. In addition, Mr. Leonard's 65-year relationship with St. John's Preparatory School includes service as a committee chair, Board Trustee, and recipient of a distinguished alumni award. Mr. Leonard was elected to the school's Hall of Honor and remains a Trustee Emeritus. Tom Leonard's lifetime achievements embody the qualities that define 'Heritage Hero.'
Please join us to honor Tom! Tickets are available for purchase online and we welcome your interest in all available ad and sponsorship opportunities.
Thanks to Salem Five for their generous commitment as the Presenting Sponsor of this event.
Downtown Parking Issues
In the most recent Sunday issue of the Boston Globe, there was a most insightful issue about parking issues in downtown areas. The story focused on an unusual principal that advocated that parking spaces in our downtown areas should be priced based on their desirability. The principal espoused in the concept indicated that our present downtown parking problems stem from the fact that we have too many spaces priced at too low a cost. For the most part, parking meters in our local downtowns need to be re-priced with the most valuable spaces priced higher so that the spaces in the most accessible places will turn over more frequently. Most parking meters in our local downtowns are priced on average at about .25 cents for every 12 minutes or about $1.25 per hour. At that price it is no wonder that it is difficult to find a space close to the shopping in our major urban centers. People take a convenient space in the downtown and then do not, in many cases, make any attempt to move from that location and in many cases sit in that same spot all day and feed the meter. That process clearly defeats the process of turnover of the spaces and less spots are available at any point in time. The story in the recent Sunday paper indicated that the urban communities should consider raising the prices on the most valuable spots, and thereby make more spaces available. The City of Salem is in the process of instituting a program like the one described in that urban setting. It will be interesting to follow the progress of that plan to see if more spaces in the most valuable parts of downtown Salem become available. Parking in locations not directly adjacent to the primary locations in the immediate downtown will not be as expensive and will hopefully encourage shoppers who can park in a somewhat more distant part of the city and walk to their destination will be rewarded with a less expensive cost. That proposed plan will for those folks willing to walk a bit more distant also be beneficial to their general health as well. This plan will not work for everyone, as those that have a disability will continue to have to look for a “handy” location and I would anticipate all of these plans will include a continuing fair number of parking locations for those with handicaps. We will continue to follow this issue to see if the program as planned will work and open up even more convenient parking spaces in those downtowns that consider such programs. Salem has also put a bike share program in place in that city and that program would be a plus for a city that adopts such a plan.
Recent Population Increases Allow Danvers to increase the Number of Town Meeting Members
The recent 2010 census has indicated that there has been a five percent increase in the population of the town and that increase will now allow the town to dramatically increase the number of elected Town Meeting members. The total population of Danvers has now grown to 26,493. The number of Town Meeting members in the community to be elected will now be increased by three members in each of the Towns precincts and the final number of members that will be elected at the May 2012 meeting will be 144 members. This will represent an increase of 24 up from 120 members that has been in place since 1992 when the number went from 96 to the current level of 120. If anyone reading this report has an interest in serving in one of these spots, nomination papers can be obtained at the Town Clerks Office on Feb 1, 2012 and papers must be returned by March 13, 2012 to be considered. For anyone interested in serving as a Town Meeting Member in Danvers, this is a wonderful opportunity to participate in this truly democratic process.
Grange in Bradford Elects new Leaders
There are not alot of Grange Organizations still operating in this region. The ones that are active still play a valuable role as they continue to focus much of their efforts on the preservation of the agricultural efforts in this region. Several years ago I was lucky enough to make a presentation on the mission of Essex Heritage that was very well received to the combined Danvers-Beverly Grange organization. That evening I shared a potluck dinner with the membership prior to my presentation and I learned quite a bit about their work that evening. Just recently the Bradford group, that is one of five regional organization, connected nationally with the agricultural organization that was founded in 1867. Their meeting was set to elect a new group of officers to serve this year. The group holds monthly meetings at the Bradford Country store. For more information about the organization and their meetings contact www.bradfordgrange@verizon.net
Volunteers Tackle Public Project
In a most unusual project residents and local businesses donated labor and material to complete a much needed project in the Town of Newbury. The long closed DPW garage has been brought back to the point that it can now be occupied after several years of non use. This is both a wonderful and unique example of a pubic private partnership that saves public tax expenditures and demonstrates how a community and its residents can work together most successfully, to complete a needed project.
Town of Marblehead Selects a new Town Administrator
The Board of Selectmen in the seaside community recently extended an offer and hired a new Town Administrator replacing the long time Administrator Tony Sasso. The new senior administrator will be Jeff Chelgren who at present is the town of Wenham’s administrator. The runner up for the postion was Thomas Younger who is currently serving as the interim Manager of Ipswich while that community seeks a permanent manager to replace Bob Merkle who moved on to a new position in Maine.
There has been a great deal of movement in recent months as many of the Chief Administrative officers of communities in this region have been active in improving their job opportunities, We will continue to monitor these changes in the region as the leadership of the communities in this region are the people Essex Heritage interacts with regularly as some of our primary partners in our mission to help preserve the historic, cultural and natural resources of Essex County.
As I observe the multiple leadership changes occurring in this region, as a resident and participant in the municipal process in Danvers, I am always struck by the long term, continuing professional management of that community which they enjoy with Manager Wayne Marquis, that certainly helps provide the ongoing positive leadership to that fast growing community.
May 9, 2012 Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner Honoring Thomas M. Leonard
Essex Heritage and the National Park Service are pleased to honor Thomas M. Leonard on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at the fifth annual Essex Heritage Hero Award Dinner! This celebration recognizes the special contributions of individuals across Essex County whose passions embody the mission of Essex Heritage - to protect and preserve the region's rich historic, cultural and natural resources.
A Salem native and enduring advocate for heritage preservation in Essex County, Tom's long and distinguished career with Salem Five reinforced his pursuits as a strong community leader. Tom is a committed supporter of local organizations in need, and currently serves on a number of non-profit boards such as the Danvers Council on Aging, Danvers Historical Society, North Shore Elder Services, Town of Danvers Finance Committee, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, Salem Rotary, Salem Partnership. He is President Emeritus of the Essex National Heritage Commission. In addition, Mr. Leonard's 65-year relationship with St. John's Preparatory School includes service as a committee chair, Board Trustee, and recipient of a distinguished alumni award. Mr. Leonard was elected to the school's Hall of Honor and remains a Trustee Emeritus. Tom Leonard's lifetime achievements embody the qualities that define 'Heritage Hero.'
Please join us to honor Tom! Tickets are available for purchase online and we welcome your interest in all available ad and sponsorship opportunities.
Thanks to Salem Five for their generous commitment as the Presenting Sponsor of this event.
Downtown Parking Issues
In the most recent Sunday issue of the Boston Globe, there was a most insightful issue about parking issues in downtown areas. The story focused on an unusual principal that advocated that parking spaces in our downtown areas should be priced based on their desirability. The principal espoused in the concept indicated that our present downtown parking problems stem from the fact that we have too many spaces priced at too low a cost. For the most part, parking meters in our local downtowns need to be re-priced with the most valuable spaces priced higher so that the spaces in the most accessible places will turn over more frequently. Most parking meters in our local downtowns are priced on average at about .25 cents for every 12 minutes or about $1.25 per hour. At that price it is no wonder that it is difficult to find a space close to the shopping in our major urban centers. People take a convenient space in the downtown and then do not, in many cases, make any attempt to move from that location and in many cases sit in that same spot all day and feed the meter. That process clearly defeats the process of turnover of the spaces and less spots are available at any point in time. The story in the recent Sunday paper indicated that the urban communities should consider raising the prices on the most valuable spots, and thereby make more spaces available. The City of Salem is in the process of instituting a program like the one described in that urban setting. It will be interesting to follow the progress of that plan to see if more spaces in the most valuable parts of downtown Salem become available. Parking in locations not directly adjacent to the primary locations in the immediate downtown will not be as expensive and will hopefully encourage shoppers who can park in a somewhat more distant part of the city and walk to their destination will be rewarded with a less expensive cost. That proposed plan will for those folks willing to walk a bit more distant also be beneficial to their general health as well. This plan will not work for everyone, as those that have a disability will continue to have to look for a “handy” location and I would anticipate all of these plans will include a continuing fair number of parking locations for those with handicaps. We will continue to follow this issue to see if the program as planned will work and open up even more convenient parking spaces in those downtowns that consider such programs. Salem has also put a bike share program in place in that city and that program would be a plus for a city that adopts such a plan.
Recent Population Increases Allow Danvers to increase the Number of Town Meeting Members
The recent 2010 census has indicated that there has been a five percent increase in the population of the town and that increase will now allow the town to dramatically increase the number of elected Town Meeting members. The total population of Danvers has now grown to 26,493. The number of Town Meeting members in the community to be elected will now be increased by three members in each of the Towns precincts and the final number of members that will be elected at the May 2012 meeting will be 144 members. This will represent an increase of 24 up from 120 members that has been in place since 1992 when the number went from 96 to the current level of 120. If anyone reading this report has an interest in serving in one of these spots, nomination papers can be obtained at the Town Clerks Office on Feb 1, 2012 and papers must be returned by March 13, 2012 to be considered. For anyone interested in serving as a Town Meeting Member in Danvers, this is a wonderful opportunity to participate in this truly democratic process.
Grange in Bradford Elects new Leaders
There are not alot of Grange Organizations still operating in this region. The ones that are active still play a valuable role as they continue to focus much of their efforts on the preservation of the agricultural efforts in this region. Several years ago I was lucky enough to make a presentation on the mission of Essex Heritage that was very well received to the combined Danvers-Beverly Grange organization. That evening I shared a potluck dinner with the membership prior to my presentation and I learned quite a bit about their work that evening. Just recently the Bradford group, that is one of five regional organization, connected nationally with the agricultural organization that was founded in 1867. Their meeting was set to elect a new group of officers to serve this year. The group holds monthly meetings at the Bradford Country store. For more information about the organization and their meetings contact www.bradfordgrange@verizon.net
Volunteers Tackle Public Project
In a most unusual project residents and local businesses donated labor and material to complete a much needed project in the Town of Newbury. The long closed DPW garage has been brought back to the point that it can now be occupied after several years of non use. This is both a wonderful and unique example of a pubic private partnership that saves public tax expenditures and demonstrates how a community and its residents can work together most successfully, to complete a needed project.
Town of Marblehead Selects a new Town Administrator
The Board of Selectmen in the seaside community recently extended an offer and hired a new Town Administrator replacing the long time Administrator Tony Sasso. The new senior administrator will be Jeff Chelgren who at present is the town of Wenham’s administrator. The runner up for the postion was Thomas Younger who is currently serving as the interim Manager of Ipswich while that community seeks a permanent manager to replace Bob Merkle who moved on to a new position in Maine.
There has been a great deal of movement in recent months as many of the Chief Administrative officers of communities in this region have been active in improving their job opportunities, We will continue to monitor these changes in the region as the leadership of the communities in this region are the people Essex Heritage interacts with regularly as some of our primary partners in our mission to help preserve the historic, cultural and natural resources of Essex County.
As I observe the multiple leadership changes occurring in this region, as a resident and participant in the municipal process in Danvers, I am always struck by the long term, continuing professional management of that community which they enjoy with Manager Wayne Marquis, that certainly helps provide the ongoing positive leadership to that fast growing community.
Friday, January 20, 2012
essex Happenings 1.20.12
Essex Happenings 1.20.12
Essex Heritage Trails & Sails 2012 Planning is Underway!
Planning is underway to once again celebrate our region's distinctive history, breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems during the 11th annual Trails & Sails: Two Weekends of Walks and Water, September 21-23 & September 28-30, 2012! Mark your calendars to join us for FREE guided tours, open house visits, hikes, walks, sails, paddles, and special experiences for all ages, skill levels and interests. This event has become one of the most popular events celebrated in the fall season, and has clearly become one of the signature events of Essex Heritage. Participation by area residents has increased every year since the inception of the program over a decade ago.
Keep in touch and stay involved...
Event Hosts:
Get creative! Get involved! Start planning now, online event submission begins in March! We seek all kinds of experiences and invite any heritage organization or business to consider offering a unique, free event that provides residents and visitors the chance to connect and experience your special place. Build public awareness and audience for your cause, mission and organization! Please contact Emily Levin with your ideas for a possible Trails & Sails tour, lecture or workshop. Prior-year hosts will be contacted via email soon.
Participants: Can't wait until September? Make Trails & Sails last all year long by becoming a mission-based champion of Essex Heritage! As a member of Essex Heritage there are many opportunities to connect to resources in this region beyond Trails & Sails weekends, making the fun and discovery last all year long! Join today!
Special Thanks to Corporate Members
Essex Heritage would like to extend special thanks to our new and renewing corporate members! Thank you to Hawthorne Hotel, and Saugusbank, for renewing commitments as Sustainer Circle Members and to Mass General/North Shore Center for Outpatient Care for becoming a new Corporate Sustainer Circle Member. In addition, Essex Heritage would like to thank Rockport National Bank who has renewed its Supporter Circle Membership! Business contributions to Essex Heritage illustrate a strong demonstration of your company's investment in the unique quality of life we enjoy in the Essex National Heritage Area. Find out more here.
Become a member at any level! Discover special places and experiences throughout the county. Your tax-deductible Essex Heritage Membership helps to support programs that enhance, preserve and promote the unique historic, cultural and natural resources found within the Essex National Heritage Area. Join today!
Fine Food and Fundraising in February!
Come join us for an evening of fine food and fundraising to benefit Trails & Sails on Tuesday, February 7 from 5:00-9:00 PM at the Landing Restaurant (81 Front Street, Marblehead, MA 01945)! Bring your friends and family and enjoy a great meal with the staff of Essex Heritage and the Landing will generously donate 20% of your meal to support the programs and initiatives of Essex Heritage. A delicious and easy way to support your favorite regional event. Join us!
This past Tuesday, the Salem Rotary Club held its weekly meeting at Salem State University. The membership had the pleasure of hearing University President Patricia Maguire Meservey. She spoke about important projects that are going on with the University including the library project. I am sorry I was not able to attend the meeting but I am re-printing sections of the club Newsletter that highlights the President’s remarks for your information.
As we conclude what was a highly successful fall on campus and prepare for a new semester of heightened activity, I am pleased to report that Salem State continues to fulfill its commitment to students, to the North Shore region and to the commonwealth. Allow me to share with you a bit about the busy fall semester just concluded, and the equally full semester that awaits us in the 2012 spring semester.
Salem State is a leader in the number of Fulbright Scholars According to an article in The Chronicle of Higher Education on October 28, 2011, Salem State University is considered a “top producer of U.S. Fulbright Scholars” among master’s degree-granting institutions for the 2011-2012 academic year.
Faculty member Thomas Hallahan and librarian Zachary Newell will spend six months each in Amman, Jordan, and Alexandria, Egypt, respectively, during the spring semester, where they will engage in scholarly pursuits. Management professor Gina Vega will spend the summer at England’s Cranfield University as a Fulbright senior specialist. There, she will assist European Case Clearinghouse in designing a series of programs to increase the profile of the case method in the UK.
NEASC Every ten years, the 238 colleges and universities accredited by the New England Association of Schools and College’s (NEASC) Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) are required to submit to comprehensive evaluations to maintain accreditation. A self-regulatory, peer review process based on rigorous criteria, these evaluations determine how well each institution meets prescribed standards relative to its stated mission. Over the course of two years, Salem State underwent this very important 10-year re-accreditation review, which included an extensive self-study and an on-site visit of several days by the NEASC committee this past April. A preliminary report from the commission indicates that we have fully met their requirements and will be continued in accreditation. Fitness Center approved At its November annual meeting. , the Salem State University Board of Trustees unanimously approved the construction of a campus fitness and recreation center. The 40,000-square-foot, two-story, glass-walled facility, which will be built as an addition to our existing athletic complex, the O’Keefe Center, is expected to be operational by September 2013. When complete, the new fitness facility will provide—in addition to more exercise equipment, two basketball courts, a yoga studio, and a conference/lecture hall that can accommodate an audience of 1000—a place where students can gather, connect and find a bit of respite from the rigors of their academic studies.
Salem’s Mayor Driscoll to head Statewide Mayor’s Association this Year
At the end of last year, the Nominating Committee of the Massachusetts Mayor’s Association put forth the name of Mayor Kimberly Driscoll of Salem to serve as the Association’s President for 2012. It is expected that the entire membership will endorse that recommendation at the associations upcoming annual meeting. Driscoll served last year as the first vice president of the group and will provide leadership for the one year term that she will serve. She has indicated that it will be a pleasure to be able to work with other municipal leaders from across the state to develop collective strategies to address some of the issues that impact all communities. Last year Essex Heritage honored Mayor Driscoll as one of its 2011 Heritage Hero’s and since that time she has continued to demonstrate an unusual level of leadership in both her home community and across the Commonwealth. Congratulations Mayor Driscoll on the latest honor.
Town of Georgetown to seek help in Completing Cultural and Architectural Survey
The community of Georgetown is seeking bids from qualified preservation consultants or companies that might wish to undertake a most important survey from the Town. The local Historical Society and the community wishes to undertake a comprehensive four phase survey over the next nine months that will survey the communities cultural and architectural resources. The work will be completed using Community Preservation Act Funds and will include documentation of historic properties in the village district. Interested bidders or those seeking more information should contact Georgetown Town Administrator Michael Farrell at Town Hall. Bids to complete this project are due by 3:00 pm on January 23, 2012, so time is of the essence. As part of the project, early in the process, residents and businesses operating in the region to be surveyed will be asked to provide information about their properties to members of the Commission or by attending an upcoming meeting. The results of this project will be of interest to Essex Heritage as the material gathered will be valuable for the future.
Two Weather related events Scheduled in local Communities
Two local communities have events scheduled that will most certainly depend on if we receive meaningful snow in the near term. The Town of Hamilton had already moved a date for a sled dog races. The event was first scheduled for this past weekend and now in the hopes of receiving some snow to allow this event to occur they have rescheduled the event until the weekend of February 4 and 5. That new date will have to be monitored if the snow drought we are experiencing this season continues.
The City of Peabody has scheduled an inaugural series of snowshoe races at 10:00 am on February 19th 2012. That event will certainly be dependant on the a snow event in this region prior to that event.
Citizen Warrant Submission Deadline in Andover Nears
The Town of Andover has announced that citizen petitions for action at the Town Meeting scheduled for this spring are due in the Town Clerks office by January 27, 2012. The petitions must have the signatures of ten registered voters to be considered for action by residents at the spring meeting,
Essex Heritage Trails & Sails 2012 Planning is Underway!
Planning is underway to once again celebrate our region's distinctive history, breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems during the 11th annual Trails & Sails: Two Weekends of Walks and Water, September 21-23 & September 28-30, 2012! Mark your calendars to join us for FREE guided tours, open house visits, hikes, walks, sails, paddles, and special experiences for all ages, skill levels and interests. This event has become one of the most popular events celebrated in the fall season, and has clearly become one of the signature events of Essex Heritage. Participation by area residents has increased every year since the inception of the program over a decade ago.
Keep in touch and stay involved...
Event Hosts:
Get creative! Get involved! Start planning now, online event submission begins in March! We seek all kinds of experiences and invite any heritage organization or business to consider offering a unique, free event that provides residents and visitors the chance to connect and experience your special place. Build public awareness and audience for your cause, mission and organization! Please contact Emily Levin with your ideas for a possible Trails & Sails tour, lecture or workshop. Prior-year hosts will be contacted via email soon.
Participants: Can't wait until September? Make Trails & Sails last all year long by becoming a mission-based champion of Essex Heritage! As a member of Essex Heritage there are many opportunities to connect to resources in this region beyond Trails & Sails weekends, making the fun and discovery last all year long! Join today!
Special Thanks to Corporate Members
Essex Heritage would like to extend special thanks to our new and renewing corporate members! Thank you to Hawthorne Hotel, and Saugusbank, for renewing commitments as Sustainer Circle Members and to Mass General/North Shore Center for Outpatient Care for becoming a new Corporate Sustainer Circle Member. In addition, Essex Heritage would like to thank Rockport National Bank who has renewed its Supporter Circle Membership! Business contributions to Essex Heritage illustrate a strong demonstration of your company's investment in the unique quality of life we enjoy in the Essex National Heritage Area. Find out more here.
Become a member at any level! Discover special places and experiences throughout the county. Your tax-deductible Essex Heritage Membership helps to support programs that enhance, preserve and promote the unique historic, cultural and natural resources found within the Essex National Heritage Area. Join today!
Fine Food and Fundraising in February!
Come join us for an evening of fine food and fundraising to benefit Trails & Sails on Tuesday, February 7 from 5:00-9:00 PM at the Landing Restaurant (81 Front Street, Marblehead, MA 01945)! Bring your friends and family and enjoy a great meal with the staff of Essex Heritage and the Landing will generously donate 20% of your meal to support the programs and initiatives of Essex Heritage. A delicious and easy way to support your favorite regional event. Join us!
This past Tuesday, the Salem Rotary Club held its weekly meeting at Salem State University. The membership had the pleasure of hearing University President Patricia Maguire Meservey. She spoke about important projects that are going on with the University including the library project. I am sorry I was not able to attend the meeting but I am re-printing sections of the club Newsletter that highlights the President’s remarks for your information.
As we conclude what was a highly successful fall on campus and prepare for a new semester of heightened activity, I am pleased to report that Salem State continues to fulfill its commitment to students, to the North Shore region and to the commonwealth. Allow me to share with you a bit about the busy fall semester just concluded, and the equally full semester that awaits us in the 2012 spring semester.
Salem State is a leader in the number of Fulbright Scholars According to an article in The Chronicle of Higher Education on October 28, 2011, Salem State University is considered a “top producer of U.S. Fulbright Scholars” among master’s degree-granting institutions for the 2011-2012 academic year.
Faculty member Thomas Hallahan and librarian Zachary Newell will spend six months each in Amman, Jordan, and Alexandria, Egypt, respectively, during the spring semester, where they will engage in scholarly pursuits. Management professor Gina Vega will spend the summer at England’s Cranfield University as a Fulbright senior specialist. There, she will assist European Case Clearinghouse in designing a series of programs to increase the profile of the case method in the UK.
NEASC Every ten years, the 238 colleges and universities accredited by the New England Association of Schools and College’s (NEASC) Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) are required to submit to comprehensive evaluations to maintain accreditation. A self-regulatory, peer review process based on rigorous criteria, these evaluations determine how well each institution meets prescribed standards relative to its stated mission. Over the course of two years, Salem State underwent this very important 10-year re-accreditation review, which included an extensive self-study and an on-site visit of several days by the NEASC committee this past April. A preliminary report from the commission indicates that we have fully met their requirements and will be continued in accreditation. Fitness Center approved At its November annual meeting. , the Salem State University Board of Trustees unanimously approved the construction of a campus fitness and recreation center. The 40,000-square-foot, two-story, glass-walled facility, which will be built as an addition to our existing athletic complex, the O’Keefe Center, is expected to be operational by September 2013. When complete, the new fitness facility will provide—in addition to more exercise equipment, two basketball courts, a yoga studio, and a conference/lecture hall that can accommodate an audience of 1000—a place where students can gather, connect and find a bit of respite from the rigors of their academic studies.
Salem’s Mayor Driscoll to head Statewide Mayor’s Association this Year
At the end of last year, the Nominating Committee of the Massachusetts Mayor’s Association put forth the name of Mayor Kimberly Driscoll of Salem to serve as the Association’s President for 2012. It is expected that the entire membership will endorse that recommendation at the associations upcoming annual meeting. Driscoll served last year as the first vice president of the group and will provide leadership for the one year term that she will serve. She has indicated that it will be a pleasure to be able to work with other municipal leaders from across the state to develop collective strategies to address some of the issues that impact all communities. Last year Essex Heritage honored Mayor Driscoll as one of its 2011 Heritage Hero’s and since that time she has continued to demonstrate an unusual level of leadership in both her home community and across the Commonwealth. Congratulations Mayor Driscoll on the latest honor.
Town of Georgetown to seek help in Completing Cultural and Architectural Survey
The community of Georgetown is seeking bids from qualified preservation consultants or companies that might wish to undertake a most important survey from the Town. The local Historical Society and the community wishes to undertake a comprehensive four phase survey over the next nine months that will survey the communities cultural and architectural resources. The work will be completed using Community Preservation Act Funds and will include documentation of historic properties in the village district. Interested bidders or those seeking more information should contact Georgetown Town Administrator Michael Farrell at Town Hall. Bids to complete this project are due by 3:00 pm on January 23, 2012, so time is of the essence. As part of the project, early in the process, residents and businesses operating in the region to be surveyed will be asked to provide information about their properties to members of the Commission or by attending an upcoming meeting. The results of this project will be of interest to Essex Heritage as the material gathered will be valuable for the future.
Two Weather related events Scheduled in local Communities
Two local communities have events scheduled that will most certainly depend on if we receive meaningful snow in the near term. The Town of Hamilton had already moved a date for a sled dog races. The event was first scheduled for this past weekend and now in the hopes of receiving some snow to allow this event to occur they have rescheduled the event until the weekend of February 4 and 5. That new date will have to be monitored if the snow drought we are experiencing this season continues.
The City of Peabody has scheduled an inaugural series of snowshoe races at 10:00 am on February 19th 2012. That event will certainly be dependant on the a snow event in this region prior to that event.
Citizen Warrant Submission Deadline in Andover Nears
The Town of Andover has announced that citizen petitions for action at the Town Meeting scheduled for this spring are due in the Town Clerks office by January 27, 2012. The petitions must have the signatures of ten registered voters to be considered for action by residents at the spring meeting,
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Essex Happenings 1.16.12
ESSEX HAPPENINGS 1.16.12
SALEM MBTA GARAGE PLANS ALTERED
The city of Salem and the entire region received some bad news in the last week or so. In a series of public meetings and announcements from the State House in Boston, the commonwealth’s Secretary of Transportation and several local officials have released information that will certainly alter the way the proposed parking facility at the Salem MBTA proposed Garage will be built and then used. The original plans that City officials in Salem and the leadership of the civic group the Salem Partnership had outlined, focusing on the need for adequate parking at this regional facility as the highest of their joint priorities, in all of their planning. The proposed parking garage, that had been scheduled to be built to both serve the new regional court facility just recently completed and the MBTA Commuter Rail Station that is one of the busiest on the entire transportation system, will now be dramatically cut back in the number of available spaces to be provided. The original anticipated size of the dual purpose garage was scheduled to be constructed offering 900 spaces is now being proposed to be reduced by almost half the original size to 500 spaces. This is a most serious reduction in size as the usage will not be any less and the current use of the surface parking lot is currently extremely high, and commuters that arrive at the location now after very early morning will find no spaces available. Now with the expected demand for spaces that will be needed to operate the new courthouse facility without providing parking are added to the mix, the site might turn into a disaster of sorts. The Commonwealth has indicated that scarce financial resources, along with a more expensive site preparation cost, is the primary reason for the cutback in size. We can only hope that local officials and the State can craft a plan to restore the proposed reduction in size and the lost spaces will be put back into the plan so that the dual purpose of the garage, when it finally comes “on line”, will be available to adequately serve the region and these two potentially busy consumer uses.
MORE GOOD NEWS FROM THE BOY’S AND GIRL’S CLUB
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Christopher Coleman Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem 978-744-0915 - phone 978-744-6203 - facsimile ccoleman@bgcgs.org - email
Marblehead Little Theatre Receives $2,500 Grant from McCarthy Family Foundation,
Benefits Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem
MARBLEHEAD, Massachusetts (January 12, 2012) - The McCarthy Family Foundation of Peabody, MA, has awarded Marblehead Little Theatre (MLT) a $2,500 grant which will be used in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem’s spring 2012 Performing Arts program.
This grant will fund scripts, stage set building costs and costumes needed for the Boys & Girls Club’s spring 2012 play. MLT will also provide technical support – including lighting and sound – as well as staging and other theatrical support not available through the Boys & Girls Club. MLT would contribute the Director of Theatrical Facilities to oversee and support set building and lighting design. Other MLT resources would be made available as needed. In addition, an MLT tech crew will educate the Club’s 10- to 12-year-old thespians in set design, prop creation and costume design and fabrication.
Since 2006, and with support from the McCarthy Family Foundation, Marblehead Little Theatre has been offering children’s classes in an effort to provide a greater number of performing arts opportunities for area youth.
“As members of the theatrical community, Marblehead Little Theatre members strongly believe that the thrill of watching a child’s confidence, manner and skill grow as they learn the ‘tricks of the trade’ is incomparable,” says Charles Gessner, Chairman of MLT’s Board of Trustees. “While we recognize that not all will develop into huge talents, we believe that most children will profit immensely from the lessons learned during the creative process.”
Partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem is an extension of MLT’s Children’s Theatre effort. During this collaboration, the Boys and Girls Club’s actors will rehearse at the Club in Salem until the week prior to the performance, when final rehearsals move to MLT’s 92-seat theatre.
“The partnership with MLT provides our young actors with the unique opportunity to perform on real stage with equipment and costumes used by professionals,” said Taylor Nelson, the Boys & Girls Club’s Arts and Education Director. Ms. Nelson will direct the play. “These resources are ones that we would otherwise not have the ability to provide our members.”
Though the name of the spring performance has not yet been released, performers MJ Sirois and Katie Henry are already excited about the project. Both are twelve year olds and performing arts program veterans who had roles in last spring’s Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes last Spring.
“Wow, that's great,” they said. “Being able to perform on a real live stage will be awesome!”
Annually, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem offers its greater than 1,000 members more than forty-five (45) academic, arts, athletic, leadership, philanthropic and volunteer programs each academic year. This year’s Performing Arts program will expose Club members to a diverse range of artistic traditions from West African dance and Japanese Theater to puppet-based Puerto Rican storytelling.
Since its founding in 1988, the McCarthy Family Foundation has distributed in excess of $4 million in grants for programs dedicated primarily to children and education, religious education, health and wellness, and tolerance in many forms. As part of its on-going activities, the McCarthy Family Foundation is accepting grant applications for programs in all of the aforementioned areas of need.
For more information about this partnership, or to schedule an interview with Taylor Nelson, Charles Gessner or Marblehead Little Theatre President Bruce Whear, please contact Christopher Coleman at 978-744-0915 or at ccoleman@bgcgs.org.
Marblehead Little Theatre
12 School Street
Marblehead, MA 01945
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Patient and Family Advisory Committee Meeting
My wife and I are both pleased to serve on this Advisory group that provides support, advice and information to the leadership of the Spaulding Rehabilitation unit in Salem. We attended a recent meeting where information was provided and advice was sought on the process of how rehab scheduling is established for patients at that facility. We learned a great deal about the complete rehabilitation process and were able to call on our own personal experience to offer observations on how the process could be improved and better communicated to patients. This presentation was moderated by Mr. Robert Mc Call, The Director of Rehabilitation for the hospital.
The second portion of the meeting was presided over by Dr. Chuck Pu from the hospital medical staff and Ms. Mary Beth Di Fillippo, from the nursing staff and they focused on a new effort at the hospital to encourage hand washing as the most effective method of controlling the spread of germs. The outline of the program was most informative and the incentives being offered by the hospital to encourage participation will likely help the hospital to achieve their goal of 100% effectiveness in both the short and long term and thereby control the spread of germs in the facility.
MBTA To Hold Local Public Hearings on Proposed Fare Increases
Thanks to North Shore Elder Services for providing this Information
Please consider attending one of these meetings if you wish to offer an opinion or learn more about the plans.
The MBTA has announced two public hearings on the North Shore to receive public input to their proposed rate increases and changes to service:
City Hall Annex 3rd Floor Conference Room 120 Washington Street, Salem on ,January 25; 6-8 PM
Lynn City Hall
3 City Hall Square
on Tuesday, February 7; 6:00-8:00 PM
Paul J. Lanzikos Executive Director North Shore Elder Services 152 Sylvan Street Danvers, MA 01923-3568 978/624-2245
New England Patriots Come Close to the Sixty- Minute Effort
For all of the Patriots fans out there, they were rewarded on Saturday evening with a pretty complete effort to dominate the Tim Tebow led Denver team. The Pats controlled to game on both sides of the ball from the opening whistle until the final bell and that was good news for the fans that have been waiting for the defensive unit to answer the bell. Tom Brady was on the mark as were his line and receivers. The Pats now await a game next Sunday afternoon against the Baltimore Ravens to determine who will represent the AFC at the Super Bowl on the first weekend in February. The impact of Tim Tebow on the NFL this past season was most relevant and the importance of his personality as a role model for young athletes cannot be under estimated.
SALEM MBTA GARAGE PLANS ALTERED
The city of Salem and the entire region received some bad news in the last week or so. In a series of public meetings and announcements from the State House in Boston, the commonwealth’s Secretary of Transportation and several local officials have released information that will certainly alter the way the proposed parking facility at the Salem MBTA proposed Garage will be built and then used. The original plans that City officials in Salem and the leadership of the civic group the Salem Partnership had outlined, focusing on the need for adequate parking at this regional facility as the highest of their joint priorities, in all of their planning. The proposed parking garage, that had been scheduled to be built to both serve the new regional court facility just recently completed and the MBTA Commuter Rail Station that is one of the busiest on the entire transportation system, will now be dramatically cut back in the number of available spaces to be provided. The original anticipated size of the dual purpose garage was scheduled to be constructed offering 900 spaces is now being proposed to be reduced by almost half the original size to 500 spaces. This is a most serious reduction in size as the usage will not be any less and the current use of the surface parking lot is currently extremely high, and commuters that arrive at the location now after very early morning will find no spaces available. Now with the expected demand for spaces that will be needed to operate the new courthouse facility without providing parking are added to the mix, the site might turn into a disaster of sorts. The Commonwealth has indicated that scarce financial resources, along with a more expensive site preparation cost, is the primary reason for the cutback in size. We can only hope that local officials and the State can craft a plan to restore the proposed reduction in size and the lost spaces will be put back into the plan so that the dual purpose of the garage, when it finally comes “on line”, will be available to adequately serve the region and these two potentially busy consumer uses.
MORE GOOD NEWS FROM THE BOY’S AND GIRL’S CLUB
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Christopher Coleman Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem 978-744-0915 - phone 978-744-6203 - facsimile ccoleman@bgcgs.org - email
Marblehead Little Theatre Receives $2,500 Grant from McCarthy Family Foundation,
Benefits Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem
MARBLEHEAD, Massachusetts (January 12, 2012) - The McCarthy Family Foundation of Peabody, MA, has awarded Marblehead Little Theatre (MLT) a $2,500 grant which will be used in support of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem’s spring 2012 Performing Arts program.
This grant will fund scripts, stage set building costs and costumes needed for the Boys & Girls Club’s spring 2012 play. MLT will also provide technical support – including lighting and sound – as well as staging and other theatrical support not available through the Boys & Girls Club. MLT would contribute the Director of Theatrical Facilities to oversee and support set building and lighting design. Other MLT resources would be made available as needed. In addition, an MLT tech crew will educate the Club’s 10- to 12-year-old thespians in set design, prop creation and costume design and fabrication.
Since 2006, and with support from the McCarthy Family Foundation, Marblehead Little Theatre has been offering children’s classes in an effort to provide a greater number of performing arts opportunities for area youth.
“As members of the theatrical community, Marblehead Little Theatre members strongly believe that the thrill of watching a child’s confidence, manner and skill grow as they learn the ‘tricks of the trade’ is incomparable,” says Charles Gessner, Chairman of MLT’s Board of Trustees. “While we recognize that not all will develop into huge talents, we believe that most children will profit immensely from the lessons learned during the creative process.”
Partnering with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem is an extension of MLT’s Children’s Theatre effort. During this collaboration, the Boys and Girls Club’s actors will rehearse at the Club in Salem until the week prior to the performance, when final rehearsals move to MLT’s 92-seat theatre.
“The partnership with MLT provides our young actors with the unique opportunity to perform on real stage with equipment and costumes used by professionals,” said Taylor Nelson, the Boys & Girls Club’s Arts and Education Director. Ms. Nelson will direct the play. “These resources are ones that we would otherwise not have the ability to provide our members.”
Though the name of the spring performance has not yet been released, performers MJ Sirois and Katie Henry are already excited about the project. Both are twelve year olds and performing arts program veterans who had roles in last spring’s Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes last Spring.
“Wow, that's great,” they said. “Being able to perform on a real live stage will be awesome!”
Annually, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem offers its greater than 1,000 members more than forty-five (45) academic, arts, athletic, leadership, philanthropic and volunteer programs each academic year. This year’s Performing Arts program will expose Club members to a diverse range of artistic traditions from West African dance and Japanese Theater to puppet-based Puerto Rican storytelling.
Since its founding in 1988, the McCarthy Family Foundation has distributed in excess of $4 million in grants for programs dedicated primarily to children and education, religious education, health and wellness, and tolerance in many forms. As part of its on-going activities, the McCarthy Family Foundation is accepting grant applications for programs in all of the aforementioned areas of need.
For more information about this partnership, or to schedule an interview with Taylor Nelson, Charles Gessner or Marblehead Little Theatre President Bruce Whear, please contact Christopher Coleman at 978-744-0915 or at ccoleman@bgcgs.org.
Marblehead Little Theatre
12 School Street
Marblehead, MA 01945
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Patient and Family Advisory Committee Meeting
My wife and I are both pleased to serve on this Advisory group that provides support, advice and information to the leadership of the Spaulding Rehabilitation unit in Salem. We attended a recent meeting where information was provided and advice was sought on the process of how rehab scheduling is established for patients at that facility. We learned a great deal about the complete rehabilitation process and were able to call on our own personal experience to offer observations on how the process could be improved and better communicated to patients. This presentation was moderated by Mr. Robert Mc Call, The Director of Rehabilitation for the hospital.
The second portion of the meeting was presided over by Dr. Chuck Pu from the hospital medical staff and Ms. Mary Beth Di Fillippo, from the nursing staff and they focused on a new effort at the hospital to encourage hand washing as the most effective method of controlling the spread of germs. The outline of the program was most informative and the incentives being offered by the hospital to encourage participation will likely help the hospital to achieve their goal of 100% effectiveness in both the short and long term and thereby control the spread of germs in the facility.
MBTA To Hold Local Public Hearings on Proposed Fare Increases
Thanks to North Shore Elder Services for providing this Information
Please consider attending one of these meetings if you wish to offer an opinion or learn more about the plans.
The MBTA has announced two public hearings on the North Shore to receive public input to their proposed rate increases and changes to service:
City Hall Annex 3rd Floor Conference Room 120 Washington Street, Salem on ,January 25; 6-8 PM
Lynn City Hall
3 City Hall Square
on Tuesday, February 7; 6:00-8:00 PM
Paul J. Lanzikos Executive Director North Shore Elder Services 152 Sylvan Street Danvers, MA 01923-3568 978/624-2245
New England Patriots Come Close to the Sixty- Minute Effort
For all of the Patriots fans out there, they were rewarded on Saturday evening with a pretty complete effort to dominate the Tim Tebow led Denver team. The Pats controlled to game on both sides of the ball from the opening whistle until the final bell and that was good news for the fans that have been waiting for the defensive unit to answer the bell. Tom Brady was on the mark as were his line and receivers. The Pats now await a game next Sunday afternoon against the Baltimore Ravens to determine who will represent the AFC at the Super Bowl on the first weekend in February. The impact of Tim Tebow on the NFL this past season was most relevant and the importance of his personality as a role model for young athletes cannot be under estimated.
Friday, January 13, 2012
Essex Happenings 1.13.12
Essex Happenings 1.12.12
Region and local community receive Federal Designation
The City of Newburyport has learned that the port city has been designated as one of only fourteen such communities nation wide so designated by the United States Coast Guard as a coast Guard City. In 1998 the Congress enacted a law that allowed that branch of the military service to designate communities that “make special recognition of the professional work of the Coast Guard men and woman assigned to that community” as a Coast Guard City, and the clipper city was so named. Newburyport was previously designated as the birthplace of the Coast Guard founded in 1891. Later this summer on August 4, 2012 on the actual date of the founding, the City of Newburyport will formally celebrate this significant designation.
Second Former St. John’s Prep Graduate takes over High Profile Division 1 Football Program
I have no idea why Bill O’Brien, the Patriots Offensive Coordinator would agree to become the Penn State head football coach with all of the problems still to be solved after the scandal at that university, but it appears that he is now in place in Happy Valley. He seems to be making all the proper conciliatory gestures to place himself in a good light at Penn State. I can only surmise that he received a substantial salary increase and the chance to run his own program and get back to the college scene that may suit him better with his young family.
Another interesting sidebar to this story is that with O’Brien at Penn State and Brian Kelly also running the football program at the Golden Dome at Notre Dame in South Bend there are now two former St. John’s Preparatory School scholar-athletes heading up two of the highest profile Division 1 football programs in this country. They both played at about the same time at the Prep and were certainly influenced by the coach in those days at the Prep, Fred Glatz
A Little more information about some upcoming events scheduled for alumni and friends of St. John’s Prep in the next month or so. The Empty Bowls event is a major fundraising event with the proceeds being directed to Haven From Hunger Pantry in Peabody. The event includes the opportunity to purchase a student created ceramic bowl and then fill it from a wide variety of soups from local vendors. This has always been a very successful and well attended event that results in a substantial donation each year to a most worthy cause.
Brainstorm with Us: January 10
How can we make the Prep’s Alumni Association programs or events an even more valuable resource? Please bring your enthusiasm and ideas to the next meeting on Tuesday, January 10 in Xavier Hall, Room 500. A light dinner will be served at 6:30 pm, followed by the meeting at 7:00 pm. Sign up now.
• Unique career development opportunities. Can you offer a summer internship? Or a shadow day experience? How about a career counseling session for someone hoping to get into your field?
• Access to otherwise unobtainable venues: a look behind-the-scenes at museums, radio & TV studios, major sports arenas, etc.
Please contact Lauren Ritchie at lritchie@stjohnsprep.org or (978) 774-6727 x 303.
Warm Up on a Cold Winter Night: January 12
Enjoy delicious hot soup, bring home a beautiful bowl hand-crafted by students in our ceramics classes and help support Haven from Hunger in Peabody at the Empty Bowls Dinner Party! This popular annual event will take place on Thursday, January 12 from 6 pm to 8 pm in Memorial Dining Hall. Guests are asked to make a minimum $10 donation per bowl.
SwingTown! Concert: January 13
A cappella bands continue to boom in popularity, so don’t miss out when the Prep’s very own SwingTown appears in concert on Friday, January 13 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm in Kaneb Theatre, Alumni Hall.
Honoring the Prep’s Tess Witwicki: January 17
We hope you will join us on Tuesday, January 17 to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King and to honor Prep teacher Tess Witwicki for her commitment to diversity. We will gather for the Prep’s third annual Martin Luther King Day Dinner on January 17 from 6 pm to 8 pm in Milano Dining Room, Memorial
Boston College Alumni Reception: February 22
All Prep grads currently attending BC are invited to a reception on February 22 in Walsh Hall on the BC campus, 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Stop by for pizza and to hear what’s new at the Prep from some of your favorite faculty and staff. Please register by February 20.
Wanted! Unique Auction Items
Eagles in Flight is the theme for this year’s Gala Auction on Saturday, March 17 at the CoCo Key Hotel in Danvers. With an extensive online auction, as well as a live and silent auction, we are on the hunt for more than 400 items, a feat that would not be possible without the support of our alumni! Items that have always proven to be very successful as well as new and different items to catch our bidders’ interest are listed below. If you can help by donating any of the following, please let us know!
• Golf outings
• Sports tickets
• Timeshare weeks, ski and beach vacations
• Trip to Ireland. The gala is on St. Patrick’s Day after all!
• Unique career development opportunities. Can you offer a summer internship? Or a shadow day experience? How about a career counseling session for someone hoping to get into your field?
• Access to otherwise unobtainable venues: a look behind-the-scenes at museums, radio & TV studios, major sports arenas, etc.
Please contact Lauren Ritchie at lritchie@stjohnsprep.org or (978) 774-6727 x 303.
Town of Danvers Receives Positive news Relative to motel students school Transportation Costs
The administration of the town of Danvers has been claiming for a number of months that the costs associated with school busing of the children located in Danvers motels as part of the resettled homeless families were part of an unfunded mandate and that the town should be appropriately reimbursed. Officials and many businesses and residents of the town have done much to make the folks relocated to that community feel at home, including many support systems like recreation and social services, but the costs of bus transportation was putting a tremendous strain on the financial budget of the town.
Danvers has recently learned that the Auditor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has agreed with the community’s contention on the re-imbursement of the costs and now Town officials, with the help of State Representative Spilliotis, are investigating options to discover the best and fastest way to recapture the expended funds. Some time may still pass before the funds are actually received by the town, but getting the Commonwealth to agree that the funds are due the town is a substantial first step in a positive direction. The community is focused on receiving the reimbursed funds in this fiscal year, when they were disbursed and will make that point very clear to the Commonwealth and they intend to use every resource available to pursue their claim, including a supplemental State budget allocation to handle the obligation.
A couple of final words on sports in the region
The hockey rematch last weekend between the Bruins and Vancouver Canucks was as emotional and contentious as was expected, but the Bruins took a few too many penalties and gave up too many Power Play goals and lost 4-3. They allowed Vancouver to score four times while the Bruins were one man and in one case two players short.. At the same time the Bruins did not score on any of the seven shorthanded opportunities they had. The 5 on 3 two man advantage was most difficult to understand as a Bruin player was attacked by half a dozen Vancouver players and the home team wound up with a two man disadvantage. All of those scores on the power play is like an NFL quarterback to throwing four interceptions in a game. The chances of winning are greatly diminished with four “picks”. This is the final time these two teams will meet this season, unless they were to meet again in the playoff finals and that would certainly be a treat.
Now that the opening round of the National Football League playoffs has been completed, the New England Patriots now know who their first opponent will be on January 14, 2012 at Gillette Stadium, and the opponent next week will be after a stunning first play overtime victory, the Denver Bronco's as Tim Tebow engineered a ‘MILE HIGH MIRICLE” to stun the Steelers.
Region and local community receive Federal Designation
The City of Newburyport has learned that the port city has been designated as one of only fourteen such communities nation wide so designated by the United States Coast Guard as a coast Guard City. In 1998 the Congress enacted a law that allowed that branch of the military service to designate communities that “make special recognition of the professional work of the Coast Guard men and woman assigned to that community” as a Coast Guard City, and the clipper city was so named. Newburyport was previously designated as the birthplace of the Coast Guard founded in 1891. Later this summer on August 4, 2012 on the actual date of the founding, the City of Newburyport will formally celebrate this significant designation.
Second Former St. John’s Prep Graduate takes over High Profile Division 1 Football Program
I have no idea why Bill O’Brien, the Patriots Offensive Coordinator would agree to become the Penn State head football coach with all of the problems still to be solved after the scandal at that university, but it appears that he is now in place in Happy Valley. He seems to be making all the proper conciliatory gestures to place himself in a good light at Penn State. I can only surmise that he received a substantial salary increase and the chance to run his own program and get back to the college scene that may suit him better with his young family.
Another interesting sidebar to this story is that with O’Brien at Penn State and Brian Kelly also running the football program at the Golden Dome at Notre Dame in South Bend there are now two former St. John’s Preparatory School scholar-athletes heading up two of the highest profile Division 1 football programs in this country. They both played at about the same time at the Prep and were certainly influenced by the coach in those days at the Prep, Fred Glatz
A Little more information about some upcoming events scheduled for alumni and friends of St. John’s Prep in the next month or so. The Empty Bowls event is a major fundraising event with the proceeds being directed to Haven From Hunger Pantry in Peabody. The event includes the opportunity to purchase a student created ceramic bowl and then fill it from a wide variety of soups from local vendors. This has always been a very successful and well attended event that results in a substantial donation each year to a most worthy cause.
Brainstorm with Us: January 10
How can we make the Prep’s Alumni Association programs or events an even more valuable resource? Please bring your enthusiasm and ideas to the next meeting on Tuesday, January 10 in Xavier Hall, Room 500. A light dinner will be served at 6:30 pm, followed by the meeting at 7:00 pm. Sign up now.
• Unique career development opportunities. Can you offer a summer internship? Or a shadow day experience? How about a career counseling session for someone hoping to get into your field?
• Access to otherwise unobtainable venues: a look behind-the-scenes at museums, radio & TV studios, major sports arenas, etc.
Please contact Lauren Ritchie at lritchie@stjohnsprep.org or (978) 774-6727 x 303.
Warm Up on a Cold Winter Night: January 12
Enjoy delicious hot soup, bring home a beautiful bowl hand-crafted by students in our ceramics classes and help support Haven from Hunger in Peabody at the Empty Bowls Dinner Party! This popular annual event will take place on Thursday, January 12 from 6 pm to 8 pm in Memorial Dining Hall. Guests are asked to make a minimum $10 donation per bowl.
SwingTown! Concert: January 13
A cappella bands continue to boom in popularity, so don’t miss out when the Prep’s very own SwingTown appears in concert on Friday, January 13 from 7 pm to 8:30 pm in Kaneb Theatre, Alumni Hall.
Honoring the Prep’s Tess Witwicki: January 17
We hope you will join us on Tuesday, January 17 to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. King and to honor Prep teacher Tess Witwicki for her commitment to diversity. We will gather for the Prep’s third annual Martin Luther King Day Dinner on January 17 from 6 pm to 8 pm in Milano Dining Room, Memorial
Boston College Alumni Reception: February 22
All Prep grads currently attending BC are invited to a reception on February 22 in Walsh Hall on the BC campus, 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Stop by for pizza and to hear what’s new at the Prep from some of your favorite faculty and staff. Please register by February 20.
Wanted! Unique Auction Items
Eagles in Flight is the theme for this year’s Gala Auction on Saturday, March 17 at the CoCo Key Hotel in Danvers. With an extensive online auction, as well as a live and silent auction, we are on the hunt for more than 400 items, a feat that would not be possible without the support of our alumni! Items that have always proven to be very successful as well as new and different items to catch our bidders’ interest are listed below. If you can help by donating any of the following, please let us know!
• Golf outings
• Sports tickets
• Timeshare weeks, ski and beach vacations
• Trip to Ireland. The gala is on St. Patrick’s Day after all!
• Unique career development opportunities. Can you offer a summer internship? Or a shadow day experience? How about a career counseling session for someone hoping to get into your field?
• Access to otherwise unobtainable venues: a look behind-the-scenes at museums, radio & TV studios, major sports arenas, etc.
Please contact Lauren Ritchie at lritchie@stjohnsprep.org or (978) 774-6727 x 303.
Town of Danvers Receives Positive news Relative to motel students school Transportation Costs
The administration of the town of Danvers has been claiming for a number of months that the costs associated with school busing of the children located in Danvers motels as part of the resettled homeless families were part of an unfunded mandate and that the town should be appropriately reimbursed. Officials and many businesses and residents of the town have done much to make the folks relocated to that community feel at home, including many support systems like recreation and social services, but the costs of bus transportation was putting a tremendous strain on the financial budget of the town.
Danvers has recently learned that the Auditor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has agreed with the community’s contention on the re-imbursement of the costs and now Town officials, with the help of State Representative Spilliotis, are investigating options to discover the best and fastest way to recapture the expended funds. Some time may still pass before the funds are actually received by the town, but getting the Commonwealth to agree that the funds are due the town is a substantial first step in a positive direction. The community is focused on receiving the reimbursed funds in this fiscal year, when they were disbursed and will make that point very clear to the Commonwealth and they intend to use every resource available to pursue their claim, including a supplemental State budget allocation to handle the obligation.
A couple of final words on sports in the region
The hockey rematch last weekend between the Bruins and Vancouver Canucks was as emotional and contentious as was expected, but the Bruins took a few too many penalties and gave up too many Power Play goals and lost 4-3. They allowed Vancouver to score four times while the Bruins were one man and in one case two players short.. At the same time the Bruins did not score on any of the seven shorthanded opportunities they had. The 5 on 3 two man advantage was most difficult to understand as a Bruin player was attacked by half a dozen Vancouver players and the home team wound up with a two man disadvantage. All of those scores on the power play is like an NFL quarterback to throwing four interceptions in a game. The chances of winning are greatly diminished with four “picks”. This is the final time these two teams will meet this season, unless they were to meet again in the playoff finals and that would certainly be a treat.
Now that the opening round of the National Football League playoffs has been completed, the New England Patriots now know who their first opponent will be on January 14, 2012 at Gillette Stadium, and the opponent next week will be after a stunning first play overtime victory, the Denver Bronco's as Tim Tebow engineered a ‘MILE HIGH MIRICLE” to stun the Steelers.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Essex Happenings 1.10.12
The Following material is a reprint of the Northeast Harvest Newsletter for January, 2012, that helps point out the value of the Agricultural fraternity that is so important to the preservation of the Natural Resources of this Region. Their work is a most important component of the Essex Heritage mission and valued by all of us.
Glenn Cook Receives Massachusetts Farm Bureau Ogonowski Award
Once again, we honor one of our own! – at this time we honor Glenn Cook of Amesbury. Glenn was awarded the John Ogonowski Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture at the December Annual Meeting of the MA Farm Bureau Federation. This award was established in 2001 as a memorial to Ogonowski, longtime Farm Bureau board member, county leader and victim of the September 11th terrorist attack.
Glenn has had a lifelong love of farming. He began his career in agriculture while still in high school, co-managing a farm in Hamilton. He went on to receive a degree in horticulture, specializing in the cultivation of fruit. Over the years, he worked at a number of nurseries and orchards, and taught at the Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute. Glenn and his wife Karen purchased farm property in Amesbury and later merged their business with his parents' property, forming Cider Hill Farm. Some 30 years later, the farm produces over 70 varieties of apples, along with an assortment of peaches, pears, plums, small fruit, vegetables and chickens. This year he reached his goal of achieving 100% of the energy needs for the farm through renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Following in Ogonowski's footsteps, Glenn has shared his passion for agriculture by mentoring over 85 international agricultural exchange students from 20 different countries. By sharing his knowledge and expertise of sustainable farming, this agricultural ambassador has an ever-widening impact.
WE CONGRATULATE YOU, GLENN!
Northeast Harvest Advisory Board Meeting
The Northeast Harvest Advisory Board will host a meeting on Wednesday, January 18th at 9 am in Coolidge Hall at the Topsfield Fairgrounds in Topsfield. At this time we will discuss our goals for the 2012 year. We are planning a Northeast Agricultural Conference this winter and all ideas are welcome. If you would like to attend the meeting, please rsvp to Joy at 978-887-5000 or email joy@topsfieldfair.org. If you cannot attend but would like to share your thoughts, please let us know. Northeast Harvest connects the farmers with the consumers and supports all agricultural aspects of Middlesex and Essex counties.
Teaching Land Care Professionals
to "Go Organic"
The Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) is offering a 5-day intensive course for professionals and master gardeners with the education needed to create thriving landscapes. The course will be held January 9th-13th at Worcester State University. The course teaches a way of landscaping that is much healthier for people by not using toxic chemicals that get into the skin, lungs, and water. The same methods also promote and respect biodiversity, creating a better environment for everyone. Click here for registration and more information or contact Program Coordinator Caro Roszell at 508-360-0874 or email Caro at caro@nofamass.org.
Farm Business Planning Courses Offered
The New Entry Sustainable Farming Project will be offering 2 versions of its flagship Farm Business Planning Course this winter. Learn to develop and plan for your farm business in either a classroom or a web-based learning environment. The course will cover all aspects of planning for the long-term financial success of your farm business. The classroom-based course runs from January 10th to February 21st on Tuesday evenings from 6-9 pm at Middlesex Community College in Lowell. The online option runs from January 8th to March 4th with 2 mandatory classroom sessions on the first and last days of the course in downtown Boston. The classroom session is $400 and the online session is $500. Click here for registration and more information or contact Maura Beaufait at 978-654-6745 or email Maura at maura.beaufait@tufts.edu.
Winter Saturday Pancake Breakfast at Verrill Farm
Come to Verrill Farm in Concord on Saturday, January 7th from 9 am to 12 noon to feast on pancakes in a greenhouse setting (There will also be a pancake breakfast on February 4th) You can enjoy hearty pancakes with Massachusetts maple syrup, along with bacon or sausage and beverages. No reservations are necessary. The cost is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children under 10. Click here for more information
The Carrot Project Deadline
The Carrot Project is once again offering loans of $35,000 or less to Massachusetts farmers. The winter deadline is January 6, 2012 with an additional deadline on March 2, 2012. For further information, contact Benneth Phelps, Program Coordinator of The Carrot Project at 413-650-6151 or email bphelps@thecarrotproject.org.
We Want to Hear From YOU!
CONSUMERS - Tell us your interests.
FARMERS - Let us know what's happening at your farm. We will try to publish your events in our newsletters.
Please add www.northeastharvest.com as a reciprocal link on your farm website. THANK YOU!
Click here to contact us.
This newsletter is presented in partnership by:
Town of Hamilton Establishes a Task Force to Consider gift of Patton Homestead
The Town of Hamilton is working towards the creation of a task force to study future uses for the property that the Patton family wishes to donate to the town. A vote on this matter will be put to residents at the Town Meetings in May. Any local residents interested in participating on the task force can volunteer by calling 978 468-5599.
Danvers Selectmen meet to Consider Plans for Transportation Reimbursement
The town of Danvers Board of Selectmen continue to wrestle with ongoing costs connected with the school transportation issue of the over 100 homeless families currently housed in motels in that community. The Selectmen have scheduled an informational meeting with State Representative Speliotis to discuss potential options. That meeting was held earlier this week and in a future report in this BLOG, we will continue to report on progress or proposed options if any are developed, as this matter is of great importance to the Town of Danvers
Town of Ipswich Names Interim Manager
A couple of weeks ago, the Selectmen in the Town of Ipswich announced that long time Town Manager Robert Merkle had decided after serving in that post since 2005 to leave Ipswich for a similar position in Kittery. Maine. At a recent meeting, the Ipswich Board of selectmen conducted interviews with three candidates to serve as an interim manager. They have selected Thomas Younger, who in the past served in a similar position in Belmont. MA. Mr. Younger will serve in an interim role for a three to five month period while the selectmen with the help of a consultant will conduct a complete search to find a permanent replacement for this important community near the geographic center of this region. Essex Heritage has long had a wonderful working relationship with this community. We have a large number of non-profit organizations that we partner with on many initiatives and work closely with a volunteer group that maintains a visitor center with a close affiliation with Essex Heritage. We will keep track of this process and when a new final Manager is selected we will offer our continuing support to that individual and this community.
Danvers Considering Starting Farmers Market
The Danvers Appeals Board has continued a hearing requested by a local resident who wants to operate a small Farmers Market on property on Pine Street. The proposal was questioned by two local well known Danvers farmers who indicated in their comments that while they are not opposed, they hope that if it is opened it is done in compliance with regulations that control farmers markets. Both farmers who appeared at the hearing noted that the Agricultural Commission that they both serve on have begun some preliminary discussion with non profit groups that might want to operate a community market downtown in Danvers to assist local businesses. There are a number of markets in communities around this region and some of those operations are most successful while others struggle for both vendors and consumers.
A Valuable Announcement Follows from the Enterprise Center at Salem State University
iT'S HERE!
THE 2012 NORTH OF BOSTON BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION IS UNDERWAY!
Accepting applications now through Friday January 27, 2012
Not just for start-ups! Now open to established companies with a new product, service, or growth strategy!
The North of Boston Business Plan Competition is an excellent way to channel time and energy into your roadmap for future success. Get valuable feedback from expert judges, investors and bankers, people you normally would not have access to.
Learn more about the North of Boston Business Plan Competition? Join us for an information session with past winners. Hear why they entered the competition, the benefits they received for entering the competition, and how the competition helped their company become successful. Wednesday January 11th 8:00 - 9:00am at Enterprise Center, 121 Loring Ave, Salem, MA 01970 Click Here To Register for the information session.
Go to www.EnterpriseCtr.org/bpc for more competition details!
Updated news from the Bike path Advocates in Danvers
Latest News
Saturday, January 7 - A Busy Day on the Trail -
Weather caused a cancellation of the New Year’s Leave’s Party. It has been rescheduled for Saturday, January 7 - 8:30 a.m - Meet at Hobart Street parking lot for coffee.
Leaf crew: meet at the Hobart Street parking lot at 8:30 with rakes and blowers. We’ll break into groups once everyone is assembled. Bring your leaf blowers, rakes, whatever you have to move leaves to the parking lot to be assigned an area to clean the trail edges of leaves and debris. Or if you live adjacent to or near the trail, just get out there in your area. Or organize a neighborhood cleaning crew. A clean trail edge will slow the encroachment of vegetation next spring.
Bike rack installation will also take place on Saturday, beginning at 8:30: A smaller team is needed for this. The Easy Auger hole digger is lined up for the day; the crew will mix and pour cement for the installation of 4 bike racks along the trail.
11:00 a.m. Re-assemble/take a break at the Hobart Street parking lot – photo op/story op to thank current supporters of the mileage marker sponsorship program and to launch program’s official kick-off! Selectmen Chair Dan Bennett will be on hand to host, with representatives from Kiwanis and Mead Web Design featured as principal sponsors. Thirteen other supporters (families, individuals and businesses) have also stepped forward to sponsor 1/10 mile markers and are invited to celebrate their generous support for the trail. There are 70 more opportunities for marker sponsorship available, with many choice locations available. For more information, visit: http://www.danversrailtrail.org/sponsoring.htm
For more information on the days events, contact Kate Day, 978-777-0001 ext. 3029 or kday@mail.danvers-ma.org
Monday, January 9, 2012, 7:00 p.m- Danvers Bi-Peds regular monthly meeting - will be held in the Carriage House at Endicott Park, 57 Forest St., Danvers. Bring new ideas and expertise to start the new year. Be a part of planning monthly walks, activities and efforts to make Danvers a safer place to bike and walk for all ages. All are welcome. Hope to see you there.
Saturday, January 14, 2012 - 1:30 p.m - 3rd Annual Bi-Peds Chocolate Stroll - ski or walk depending on the snow cover the northern portion of the Danvers Rail Trail. Meet at the Putnuamville School on Locust St. Finish up with all things chocolate needed to refuel after snowshoeing, skiing, or walking and a raffle. All, including dogs on leash, are welcome.
For more information, call (978) 777-4661 or go to danversbipeds.org.
Glenn Cook Receives Massachusetts Farm Bureau Ogonowski Award
Once again, we honor one of our own! – at this time we honor Glenn Cook of Amesbury. Glenn was awarded the John Ogonowski Award for Distinguished Service to Agriculture at the December Annual Meeting of the MA Farm Bureau Federation. This award was established in 2001 as a memorial to Ogonowski, longtime Farm Bureau board member, county leader and victim of the September 11th terrorist attack.
Glenn has had a lifelong love of farming. He began his career in agriculture while still in high school, co-managing a farm in Hamilton. He went on to receive a degree in horticulture, specializing in the cultivation of fruit. Over the years, he worked at a number of nurseries and orchards, and taught at the Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute. Glenn and his wife Karen purchased farm property in Amesbury and later merged their business with his parents' property, forming Cider Hill Farm. Some 30 years later, the farm produces over 70 varieties of apples, along with an assortment of peaches, pears, plums, small fruit, vegetables and chickens. This year he reached his goal of achieving 100% of the energy needs for the farm through renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Following in Ogonowski's footsteps, Glenn has shared his passion for agriculture by mentoring over 85 international agricultural exchange students from 20 different countries. By sharing his knowledge and expertise of sustainable farming, this agricultural ambassador has an ever-widening impact.
WE CONGRATULATE YOU, GLENN!
Northeast Harvest Advisory Board Meeting
The Northeast Harvest Advisory Board will host a meeting on Wednesday, January 18th at 9 am in Coolidge Hall at the Topsfield Fairgrounds in Topsfield. At this time we will discuss our goals for the 2012 year. We are planning a Northeast Agricultural Conference this winter and all ideas are welcome. If you would like to attend the meeting, please rsvp to Joy at 978-887-5000 or email joy@topsfieldfair.org. If you cannot attend but would like to share your thoughts, please let us know. Northeast Harvest connects the farmers with the consumers and supports all agricultural aspects of Middlesex and Essex counties.
Teaching Land Care Professionals
to "Go Organic"
The Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) is offering a 5-day intensive course for professionals and master gardeners with the education needed to create thriving landscapes. The course will be held January 9th-13th at Worcester State University. The course teaches a way of landscaping that is much healthier for people by not using toxic chemicals that get into the skin, lungs, and water. The same methods also promote and respect biodiversity, creating a better environment for everyone. Click here for registration and more information or contact Program Coordinator Caro Roszell at 508-360-0874 or email Caro at caro@nofamass.org.
Farm Business Planning Courses Offered
The New Entry Sustainable Farming Project will be offering 2 versions of its flagship Farm Business Planning Course this winter. Learn to develop and plan for your farm business in either a classroom or a web-based learning environment. The course will cover all aspects of planning for the long-term financial success of your farm business. The classroom-based course runs from January 10th to February 21st on Tuesday evenings from 6-9 pm at Middlesex Community College in Lowell. The online option runs from January 8th to March 4th with 2 mandatory classroom sessions on the first and last days of the course in downtown Boston. The classroom session is $400 and the online session is $500. Click here for registration and more information or contact Maura Beaufait at 978-654-6745 or email Maura at maura.beaufait@tufts.edu.
Winter Saturday Pancake Breakfast at Verrill Farm
Come to Verrill Farm in Concord on Saturday, January 7th from 9 am to 12 noon to feast on pancakes in a greenhouse setting (There will also be a pancake breakfast on February 4th) You can enjoy hearty pancakes with Massachusetts maple syrup, along with bacon or sausage and beverages. No reservations are necessary. The cost is $7.50 for adults and $4.50 for children under 10. Click here for more information
The Carrot Project Deadline
The Carrot Project is once again offering loans of $35,000 or less to Massachusetts farmers. The winter deadline is January 6, 2012 with an additional deadline on March 2, 2012. For further information, contact Benneth Phelps, Program Coordinator of The Carrot Project at 413-650-6151 or email bphelps@thecarrotproject.org.
We Want to Hear From YOU!
CONSUMERS - Tell us your interests.
FARMERS - Let us know what's happening at your farm. We will try to publish your events in our newsletters.
Please add www.northeastharvest.com as a reciprocal link on your farm website. THANK YOU!
Click here to contact us.
This newsletter is presented in partnership by:
Town of Hamilton Establishes a Task Force to Consider gift of Patton Homestead
The Town of Hamilton is working towards the creation of a task force to study future uses for the property that the Patton family wishes to donate to the town. A vote on this matter will be put to residents at the Town Meetings in May. Any local residents interested in participating on the task force can volunteer by calling 978 468-5599.
Danvers Selectmen meet to Consider Plans for Transportation Reimbursement
The town of Danvers Board of Selectmen continue to wrestle with ongoing costs connected with the school transportation issue of the over 100 homeless families currently housed in motels in that community. The Selectmen have scheduled an informational meeting with State Representative Speliotis to discuss potential options. That meeting was held earlier this week and in a future report in this BLOG, we will continue to report on progress or proposed options if any are developed, as this matter is of great importance to the Town of Danvers
Town of Ipswich Names Interim Manager
A couple of weeks ago, the Selectmen in the Town of Ipswich announced that long time Town Manager Robert Merkle had decided after serving in that post since 2005 to leave Ipswich for a similar position in Kittery. Maine. At a recent meeting, the Ipswich Board of selectmen conducted interviews with three candidates to serve as an interim manager. They have selected Thomas Younger, who in the past served in a similar position in Belmont. MA. Mr. Younger will serve in an interim role for a three to five month period while the selectmen with the help of a consultant will conduct a complete search to find a permanent replacement for this important community near the geographic center of this region. Essex Heritage has long had a wonderful working relationship with this community. We have a large number of non-profit organizations that we partner with on many initiatives and work closely with a volunteer group that maintains a visitor center with a close affiliation with Essex Heritage. We will keep track of this process and when a new final Manager is selected we will offer our continuing support to that individual and this community.
Danvers Considering Starting Farmers Market
The Danvers Appeals Board has continued a hearing requested by a local resident who wants to operate a small Farmers Market on property on Pine Street. The proposal was questioned by two local well known Danvers farmers who indicated in their comments that while they are not opposed, they hope that if it is opened it is done in compliance with regulations that control farmers markets. Both farmers who appeared at the hearing noted that the Agricultural Commission that they both serve on have begun some preliminary discussion with non profit groups that might want to operate a community market downtown in Danvers to assist local businesses. There are a number of markets in communities around this region and some of those operations are most successful while others struggle for both vendors and consumers.
A Valuable Announcement Follows from the Enterprise Center at Salem State University
iT'S HERE!
THE 2012 NORTH OF BOSTON BUSINESS PLAN COMPETITION IS UNDERWAY!
Accepting applications now through Friday January 27, 2012
Not just for start-ups! Now open to established companies with a new product, service, or growth strategy!
The North of Boston Business Plan Competition is an excellent way to channel time and energy into your roadmap for future success. Get valuable feedback from expert judges, investors and bankers, people you normally would not have access to.
Learn more about the North of Boston Business Plan Competition? Join us for an information session with past winners. Hear why they entered the competition, the benefits they received for entering the competition, and how the competition helped their company become successful. Wednesday January 11th 8:00 - 9:00am at Enterprise Center, 121 Loring Ave, Salem, MA 01970 Click Here To Register for the information session.
Go to www.EnterpriseCtr.org/bpc for more competition details!
Updated news from the Bike path Advocates in Danvers
Latest News
Saturday, January 7 - A Busy Day on the Trail -
Weather caused a cancellation of the New Year’s Leave’s Party. It has been rescheduled for Saturday, January 7 - 8:30 a.m - Meet at Hobart Street parking lot for coffee.
Leaf crew: meet at the Hobart Street parking lot at 8:30 with rakes and blowers. We’ll break into groups once everyone is assembled. Bring your leaf blowers, rakes, whatever you have to move leaves to the parking lot to be assigned an area to clean the trail edges of leaves and debris. Or if you live adjacent to or near the trail, just get out there in your area. Or organize a neighborhood cleaning crew. A clean trail edge will slow the encroachment of vegetation next spring.
Bike rack installation will also take place on Saturday, beginning at 8:30: A smaller team is needed for this. The Easy Auger hole digger is lined up for the day; the crew will mix and pour cement for the installation of 4 bike racks along the trail.
11:00 a.m. Re-assemble/take a break at the Hobart Street parking lot – photo op/story op to thank current supporters of the mileage marker sponsorship program and to launch program’s official kick-off! Selectmen Chair Dan Bennett will be on hand to host, with representatives from Kiwanis and Mead Web Design featured as principal sponsors. Thirteen other supporters (families, individuals and businesses) have also stepped forward to sponsor 1/10 mile markers and are invited to celebrate their generous support for the trail. There are 70 more opportunities for marker sponsorship available, with many choice locations available. For more information, visit: http://www.danversrailtrail.org/sponsoring.htm
For more information on the days events, contact Kate Day, 978-777-0001 ext. 3029 or kday@mail.danvers-ma.org
Monday, January 9, 2012, 7:00 p.m- Danvers Bi-Peds regular monthly meeting - will be held in the Carriage House at Endicott Park, 57 Forest St., Danvers. Bring new ideas and expertise to start the new year. Be a part of planning monthly walks, activities and efforts to make Danvers a safer place to bike and walk for all ages. All are welcome. Hope to see you there.
Saturday, January 14, 2012 - 1:30 p.m - 3rd Annual Bi-Peds Chocolate Stroll - ski or walk depending on the snow cover the northern portion of the Danvers Rail Trail. Meet at the Putnuamville School on Locust St. Finish up with all things chocolate needed to refuel after snowshoeing, skiing, or walking and a raffle. All, including dogs on leash, are welcome.
For more information, call (978) 777-4661 or go to danversbipeds.org.
Friday, January 6, 2012
essex Happenings 1.6.12
Essex Happenings….1.6.12
The following information is provided to highlight Activities of the Danvers Historical Society
• We are pleased to announce the Winter Film Fair to be held at Talley Memorial Hall weekly during January and February. Member Dan Tremblay of Heritage Films will be showing the following films at 1 PM in Tapley Memorial Hall. Each film runs approximately 25 minutes and will start at 1 PM except for January 16. We do ask for a $5.00 donation to help defray the utilities costs. Light refreshments will be served.
• Weds. January 4, 2012 “Reminiscing at Glen Magna Farms”. Sam Thoron and Ann Thoron Hale, grandnephew and grand niece of our Louise Thoron Endicott (she bequeathed the Derby Summer House to the Society) reminisce as they walked the historic gardens and Endicott mansion house.
• Monday January 9, 2012 “The Underground Railroad and Colonial Christmas” 1 PM
• Monday January 16, 2012 “The Underground Railroad” 2 showings at 11:00 AM and 12:00 Noon
• Weds. January 18, 2012 “Salem Experience”
• Monday January 23, 2012 “Gloucestermen”. Early fishing off Cape Ann
• NEW PROGRAM STARTING Weds. January 25, 2012 at 1 PM “Danvers Memories” Tapley Memorial Hall.
• Members, we are forming an oral history club. We need your memories on tape. Dan Tremblay has offered to video as you recall those special memories of this wonderful town. Let’s get them on tape before they are lost forever. We’ll start this day with members over the age of 70, bring along a friend to join the Society. Light refreshments will be served. We would like this to turn into a monthly 1 PM meeting in Tapley Memorial Hall. Reservations please to 978.777.1666 or dhs@danvershistory.org
The following material is provided by North Shore Elder Services and is presented for the general information of seniors and those with disabilities in this region.
Subject: Transportation Security Administration, TSA Cares, Toll-Free #
TSA Cares is now available and accepting calls. Travelers may call TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227 prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint.
Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to contact TSA Cares or can e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov.
The hours of operation for the TSA Cares helpline are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. EST, excluding federal holidays.
After hours, travelers can find information about traveling with disabilities and medical needs on TSA?s website at: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/disabilityandmedicalneeds/
When a passenger with a disability or medical condition calls TSA Cares, a representative will provide assistance, either with information about screening that is relevant to the callers specific disability or medical condition, or the passenger may be referred to disability experts at TSA.
TSA recommends that passengers call approximately 72 hours ahead of travel so that TSA Cares has the opportunity to coordinate checkpoint support with a TSA Customer Service Manager located at the airport when necessary.
Learn more at: www.tsa.gov
Difficulty Paying Medical Bills
Center For Studying Health System Change/Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Medical Bill Problems Steady For U.S. Families, 2007-2010 -- This report, based on 2007 and 2010 household surveys, finds that the share of American families having difficulty paying their medical bills remained fairly stable during that time, despite the economic downturn. The researchers report that more than one in five people were in families that had difficulty meeting those obligations. They suggest that rate may not have increased during the recession because many people concerned about money declined to use health care services. Still, the proportion with medical bill-paying difficulty in 2010 was more than one-third higher than in a similar survey in 2003. The share of nonelderly respondents with medical billing problems "significantly" increased from 16.2 percent in 2003 to 22.4 percent in 2010. Despite federal entitlements like Medicare, the elderly (those 65 and older) faced "higher out-of-pocket spending" and those experiencing billing problems rose from 6.9 percent in 2003 to 10.3 percent in 2010 (Sommers and Cunningham, 12/23).
Medicare Spending Growth Slows, But 2011 A Profitable Year For Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare spending growth is slowing, even as enrollment rises, The Washington Post reports. Meanwhile, several large Medicare Advantage plans turned a mighty profit in 2011, despite the volatility of the larger economy.
The Washington Post: Medicare Spending Growth Rising Slower But Enrollment Will Rise, but in early 2010, the number crunchers at Medicare headquarters in Baltimore saw something surprising: a sharp drop in the volume of doctor visits and other outpatient services. Instead of growing at the usual 4 percent a year, the number of claims was suddenly climbing by less than 2 percent. ... Medicare spending per person is rising more slowly than spending in the private health sector. And, because of the cuts that were part of last year's Affordable Care Act, it is expected to mirror overall growth in the economy for much of the next decade, staying well below targets set by Congress (Montgomery, 12/22).
CNN Money: Medicare Passes On Big Profits To Insurers This has been a volatile year for the stock market. But one sector has been consistently earning a windfall for investors: health insurers that provide private Medicare plans to seniors. Among the top-performing Fortune 500 stocks of 2011, three — WellCare Health Plans, Humana, and Centene — were health insurers with a high proportion of Medicare Advantage enrollees. WellCare's share price has nearly doubled while Humana and Centene are up about 50 percent. UnitedHealth Group (UHC) and Aetna, each with significant shares of Medicare Advantage patients, also inked gains of more than 35 percent in 2011 (Farrell, 12/22).
Town of Hamilton Establishes a Task Force to Consider gift of Patton Homestead
The Town of Hamilton is working towards the creation of a task force to study future uses for the property that the Patton family wishes to donate to the town. A vote on this matter will be put to residents at the Town Meetings in May. Any local residents interested in participating on the task force can volunteer by calling 978 468-5599.
Northern Essex Community College Poetry Contest
The college in the City of Haverhill has announced that it will once again offer a poetry contest that is open to Haverhill schools from K through 12. This 4th annual peace contest seeks original poems and artwork on the subject of Peace. The entries to this contest are due at the college by March 15, 2012 and the winners will have their work published in a book produced by the college and will participate in a public reading program. Entries to the contest can be sent to peacepoetry@necc.mass.edu or mail entries to NECC Peace Poetry, 100 Elliott Street, spurk 317H, Haverhill, MA 01830
North Andover Produces list of Un-cashed Checks
The Town on North Andover has produced a list of almost three dozen checks that were issued by the Town government between September 7, 2007 and January 21, 2010. The checks that range in denomination from $5 to $ 4219 have been deemed abandoned and will be turned over to the state if not claimed. To view a list of the checks visit www.townofnorthandover.com or call the Town Treasurer at 978-688-9550.
Several Communities Schedule Curbside Christmas Trees Pickup
The communities of Marblehead and Gloucester have scheduled curbside pickup for Christmas Trees. The Marblehead date is this week on normal trash pickup days and Gloucester has designated the week of 1/17 on the usual pick up days. In both cases, the trees must be free of lights and decorations and must not be in plastic bags.
Town of Essex to offer Conomo Point Informational Meeting
For those residents in the community of Essex that might have an interest in following the impending decision concerning ownership issues at Conomo Point, an informational meeting has been scheduled for January 17, 2012 by the board of Selectmen at the Essex Elementary School cafeteria a 7:00 pm. This meeting will include a presentation of the Comprehensive Statement offered by the Selectmen and a question and answer period will follow the formal presentations.
Interesting use of the Internet to Offer Holiday Greetings in 2011
I suspect that many organizations offered Holiday greetings in 2010 using lists of donors, an electronic greeting or a thank you wish, but in 2011 I witnessed an explosion of this method of both saying thank you and offering a holiday greeting. During the final two weeks of the year just ended, I received numerous offerings, from organizations as diverse as Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, North Shore Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, St. John’s Preparatory School, Bishop Fenwick High School, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, the Rotary Club and our own Essex National Heritage Area and even some personal greetings from friends and business associates. All of the business driven messages were professionally prepared and were certainly appreciated by the recipients. In the just recent past, these greetings would have been offered through the use of surface mail, and so one can readily see why the United States Postal Service is finding it difficult to keep their financial affairs balanced. The Internet certainly allows organization to stay connected with their “friends’ through the use of these greetings, newsletters BLOGS and other communications and at the same time, helping to manage costs.
Visit to TD Garden
Since I was fitted for a prosthetic leg in March of last year, I have tried to tackle every opportunity that is presented to prove to myself that I could accomplish whatever task was needed. I have also attempted to do the things that I was doing before my leg was removed. Last night I made a visit to the TD Garden to watch the Bruins take on and handle the Calgary Flames quite easily. I am a long time Bruins fan as far back as the 1960’s, pre Bobby Orr, and the visit last night keep a very long streak alive on viewing a professional hockey game in Boston annually.
I now pay particular attention to how handicapped people are taken care of at public forums and I can say most unequivocally that the staff at the Boston sports arena were most attentive to those needs and were polite, professional and helpful. I want to thank my sister-in-law and her daughter-in–law who went to great lengths to make certain that my visit was both accessible and enjoyable. The locations provide at the Garden, like at Gillette are sensational with wonderful sight lines for the action. Now that I know that I can visit the TD Garden, I am looking forward to a future visit to watch the defending Stanley Cup champions from last year.
The following information is provided to highlight Activities of the Danvers Historical Society
• We are pleased to announce the Winter Film Fair to be held at Talley Memorial Hall weekly during January and February. Member Dan Tremblay of Heritage Films will be showing the following films at 1 PM in Tapley Memorial Hall. Each film runs approximately 25 minutes and will start at 1 PM except for January 16. We do ask for a $5.00 donation to help defray the utilities costs. Light refreshments will be served.
• Weds. January 4, 2012 “Reminiscing at Glen Magna Farms”. Sam Thoron and Ann Thoron Hale, grandnephew and grand niece of our Louise Thoron Endicott (she bequeathed the Derby Summer House to the Society) reminisce as they walked the historic gardens and Endicott mansion house.
• Monday January 9, 2012 “The Underground Railroad and Colonial Christmas” 1 PM
• Monday January 16, 2012 “The Underground Railroad” 2 showings at 11:00 AM and 12:00 Noon
• Weds. January 18, 2012 “Salem Experience”
• Monday January 23, 2012 “Gloucestermen”. Early fishing off Cape Ann
• NEW PROGRAM STARTING Weds. January 25, 2012 at 1 PM “Danvers Memories” Tapley Memorial Hall.
• Members, we are forming an oral history club. We need your memories on tape. Dan Tremblay has offered to video as you recall those special memories of this wonderful town. Let’s get them on tape before they are lost forever. We’ll start this day with members over the age of 70, bring along a friend to join the Society. Light refreshments will be served. We would like this to turn into a monthly 1 PM meeting in Tapley Memorial Hall. Reservations please to 978.777.1666 or dhs@danvershistory.org
The following material is provided by North Shore Elder Services and is presented for the general information of seniors and those with disabilities in this region.
Subject: Transportation Security Administration, TSA Cares, Toll-Free #
TSA Cares is now available and accepting calls. Travelers may call TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227 prior to traveling with questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint.
Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to contact TSA Cares or can e-mail TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov.
The hours of operation for the TSA Cares helpline are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. EST, excluding federal holidays.
After hours, travelers can find information about traveling with disabilities and medical needs on TSA?s website at: http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/disabilityandmedicalneeds/
When a passenger with a disability or medical condition calls TSA Cares, a representative will provide assistance, either with information about screening that is relevant to the callers specific disability or medical condition, or the passenger may be referred to disability experts at TSA.
TSA recommends that passengers call approximately 72 hours ahead of travel so that TSA Cares has the opportunity to coordinate checkpoint support with a TSA Customer Service Manager located at the airport when necessary.
Learn more at: www.tsa.gov
Difficulty Paying Medical Bills
Center For Studying Health System Change/Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: Medical Bill Problems Steady For U.S. Families, 2007-2010 -- This report, based on 2007 and 2010 household surveys, finds that the share of American families having difficulty paying their medical bills remained fairly stable during that time, despite the economic downturn. The researchers report that more than one in five people were in families that had difficulty meeting those obligations. They suggest that rate may not have increased during the recession because many people concerned about money declined to use health care services. Still, the proportion with medical bill-paying difficulty in 2010 was more than one-third higher than in a similar survey in 2003. The share of nonelderly respondents with medical billing problems "significantly" increased from 16.2 percent in 2003 to 22.4 percent in 2010. Despite federal entitlements like Medicare, the elderly (those 65 and older) faced "higher out-of-pocket spending" and those experiencing billing problems rose from 6.9 percent in 2003 to 10.3 percent in 2010 (Sommers and Cunningham, 12/23).
Medicare Spending Growth Slows, But 2011 A Profitable Year For Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare spending growth is slowing, even as enrollment rises, The Washington Post reports. Meanwhile, several large Medicare Advantage plans turned a mighty profit in 2011, despite the volatility of the larger economy.
The Washington Post: Medicare Spending Growth Rising Slower But Enrollment Will Rise, but in early 2010, the number crunchers at Medicare headquarters in Baltimore saw something surprising: a sharp drop in the volume of doctor visits and other outpatient services. Instead of growing at the usual 4 percent a year, the number of claims was suddenly climbing by less than 2 percent. ... Medicare spending per person is rising more slowly than spending in the private health sector. And, because of the cuts that were part of last year's Affordable Care Act, it is expected to mirror overall growth in the economy for much of the next decade, staying well below targets set by Congress (Montgomery, 12/22).
CNN Money: Medicare Passes On Big Profits To Insurers This has been a volatile year for the stock market. But one sector has been consistently earning a windfall for investors: health insurers that provide private Medicare plans to seniors. Among the top-performing Fortune 500 stocks of 2011, three — WellCare Health Plans, Humana, and Centene — were health insurers with a high proportion of Medicare Advantage enrollees. WellCare's share price has nearly doubled while Humana and Centene are up about 50 percent. UnitedHealth Group (UHC) and Aetna, each with significant shares of Medicare Advantage patients, also inked gains of more than 35 percent in 2011 (Farrell, 12/22).
Town of Hamilton Establishes a Task Force to Consider gift of Patton Homestead
The Town of Hamilton is working towards the creation of a task force to study future uses for the property that the Patton family wishes to donate to the town. A vote on this matter will be put to residents at the Town Meetings in May. Any local residents interested in participating on the task force can volunteer by calling 978 468-5599.
Northern Essex Community College Poetry Contest
The college in the City of Haverhill has announced that it will once again offer a poetry contest that is open to Haverhill schools from K through 12. This 4th annual peace contest seeks original poems and artwork on the subject of Peace. The entries to this contest are due at the college by March 15, 2012 and the winners will have their work published in a book produced by the college and will participate in a public reading program. Entries to the contest can be sent to peacepoetry@necc.mass.edu or mail entries to NECC Peace Poetry, 100 Elliott Street, spurk 317H, Haverhill, MA 01830
North Andover Produces list of Un-cashed Checks
The Town on North Andover has produced a list of almost three dozen checks that were issued by the Town government between September 7, 2007 and January 21, 2010. The checks that range in denomination from $5 to $ 4219 have been deemed abandoned and will be turned over to the state if not claimed. To view a list of the checks visit www.townofnorthandover.com or call the Town Treasurer at 978-688-9550.
Several Communities Schedule Curbside Christmas Trees Pickup
The communities of Marblehead and Gloucester have scheduled curbside pickup for Christmas Trees. The Marblehead date is this week on normal trash pickup days and Gloucester has designated the week of 1/17 on the usual pick up days. In both cases, the trees must be free of lights and decorations and must not be in plastic bags.
Town of Essex to offer Conomo Point Informational Meeting
For those residents in the community of Essex that might have an interest in following the impending decision concerning ownership issues at Conomo Point, an informational meeting has been scheduled for January 17, 2012 by the board of Selectmen at the Essex Elementary School cafeteria a 7:00 pm. This meeting will include a presentation of the Comprehensive Statement offered by the Selectmen and a question and answer period will follow the formal presentations.
Interesting use of the Internet to Offer Holiday Greetings in 2011
I suspect that many organizations offered Holiday greetings in 2010 using lists of donors, an electronic greeting or a thank you wish, but in 2011 I witnessed an explosion of this method of both saying thank you and offering a holiday greeting. During the final two weeks of the year just ended, I received numerous offerings, from organizations as diverse as Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, North Shore Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, St. John’s Preparatory School, Bishop Fenwick High School, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Salem, the Rotary Club and our own Essex National Heritage Area and even some personal greetings from friends and business associates. All of the business driven messages were professionally prepared and were certainly appreciated by the recipients. In the just recent past, these greetings would have been offered through the use of surface mail, and so one can readily see why the United States Postal Service is finding it difficult to keep their financial affairs balanced. The Internet certainly allows organization to stay connected with their “friends’ through the use of these greetings, newsletters BLOGS and other communications and at the same time, helping to manage costs.
Visit to TD Garden
Since I was fitted for a prosthetic leg in March of last year, I have tried to tackle every opportunity that is presented to prove to myself that I could accomplish whatever task was needed. I have also attempted to do the things that I was doing before my leg was removed. Last night I made a visit to the TD Garden to watch the Bruins take on and handle the Calgary Flames quite easily. I am a long time Bruins fan as far back as the 1960’s, pre Bobby Orr, and the visit last night keep a very long streak alive on viewing a professional hockey game in Boston annually.
I now pay particular attention to how handicapped people are taken care of at public forums and I can say most unequivocally that the staff at the Boston sports arena were most attentive to those needs and were polite, professional and helpful. I want to thank my sister-in-law and her daughter-in–law who went to great lengths to make certain that my visit was both accessible and enjoyable. The locations provide at the Garden, like at Gillette are sensational with wonderful sight lines for the action. Now that I know that I can visit the TD Garden, I am looking forward to a future visit to watch the defending Stanley Cup champions from last year.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Essex Happenings 1.3.12
Town of Danvers to “Kick Start” Re-cycling Program into High Gear
In a number of recent postings, I have noted a high level effort that had been established in Danvers to increase the level of recycling. The project has two primary goals, as the protection of the environment and the continuing effort to keep municipal expenses under controlare important components of the plan. The process will begin in earnest very early in the new year and regular rubbish collection will not be accepted unless recycled material is also curbside every week.. This may be a most positive initiative and the communities in the region might want to follow the progress of this effort. to learn if a plan to emulate this effort could be formulated.
Wonderful Regional Public Health Grant Received from the Commonwealth
I have always thought and Essex Heritage has always advocated for collaboration among and between local communities. A special grant totaling $325,000 has been received from the Commonwealth Department of Public Health that will allow eight southern Essex County communities to join together to share resources in the field of public health. The communities that have formed the North Shore Regional Public Health Program are: Peabody, Salem, Danvers, Marblehead, Swampscott, Nahant, Lynn and Beverly. The participating communities will remain independent but through an collaborate effort on some projects see great opportunities to work together on regional health issues. This is a wonderful initiative that certainly could lead to other opportunities to consider in the future as a way to both provide services more efficiently and in a less costly manner.
Danvers High School Project Report
Town officials from Danvers recently provided an update on one of the biggest projects in the Town’s history. The update noted that the renovation and new construction of the High School was now slightly over 43% complete. The very first manifestation of the progress on this project will be the re-opening of the field house very early in January 2012. An athletic event is scheduled in the Field House in the first couple of weeks in January. The rest of the project is now scheduled to be finished later this year and the April vacation period will be used to move “back in” to the new facility.
ENDICOTT COLLEGE BECOMES FIRST ON NORTH SHORE TO OFFER DOCTORAL DEGREE
Addition of new degree, Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Fuels Endicott College Growth
The following is an excerpt from a press release issued by the Beverly College and congratulations are offered on their recent success. They have come a long way from where they started.
Beverly, MA -- Endicott College President Dr. Richard E. Wylie today announced that on December 6, Endicott College will become the first college on Boston’s North Shore to be authorized to award a doctoral degree. Following program endorsement by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, Endicott College will award a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership to qualified candidates. The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership will focus on preparing unique leaders for small to mid-size organizations in higher education, non-profit agencies, and schools. Emphasizing Endicott College’s strength, the program will focus on theory, research, and applying these skills to improving organizations.
City of Peabody Continues to Expand Municipal Recreational Opportunities
The City Council body of the leather city has recently voted to sign a new 99-year lease with the MBTA to gain rights to develop an enhanced rail trail in that community. That community already maintains a comprehensive 4.6 mile trail program for residents and visitors that runs east and west across the city from the North Shore Shopping Center to municipal community lines in Middleton and Lynnfield. The new section of the trail that would be 2.8 miles in length would cross the main trail and would connect with the Danvers trail currently under construction. The city is planning to offer residents adjacent to the trail the opportunity to offer their observations and funding to complete the work to prepare and pave the new trail. When completed this trail will fast become part of an ever expanding trail program stretching across the region. Essex Heritage has devoted a great deal of energy to this regional initiative as the work accomplished certainly adds to the Quality of Life offered in the region.
Hamilton and Wenham Abandon finance consolidation talks
I am certain that there were many sufficient reasons why the two adjacent communities of Hamilton and Wenham abandoned their recent discussions that might have led to a consolidation of some finance services. Clearly any consolidations around the region that could produce more efficient services and might save some local funds could be very helpful to any communities that might
consider such undertakings.
Important Gloucester Maritime Summit Talks can be Found On-line
Earlier this year, the City of Gloucester conducted a maritime summit to explore innovative methods to better utilize their famous working harbor. The experts who provided information were from the world of academics and technology. Those remarks have now been posted on the communities web site and can be found at www.gloucester-ma.gov. and by signing on, residents and other interested persons can have access to the findings discussed at the summit.
Town of Manchester By the Sea Seeking funds for Dredging from Massachusetts Seaport Council
The Town of Manchester has recently met with local officials to plan a strategy to apply to the Massachusetts Seaport Council for an allocation for funding to complete some dredging in the harbor of that community. The community has designated two locations within the harbor that would be greatly enhanced if that work could be accomplished. Town officials are aware of how competitive bidding is for these funds but the reward and the benefits would be so positive that a strong effort would be advanced to prove their case.
Danvers Rail Trail Advocates
The committed volunteers in Danvers that have long advocated for the recreational trail being built in that community continues to be most active. They are now assembling bike racks and installing mile markers on the trail. They also have a couple of trail cleanup days scheduled to get a jump on the 2012 season. The town of Danvers and the Town of Wenham are awaiting news as a result of a grant application that they have jointly applied for to the Commonwealth. Danvers would use their funding to improve the surface of the trail to mirror the surface the works very effectively on the trail in the community of Topsfield.
Salem Pier Work Progresses
Work on the commercial pier that is being built with support from the Commonwealth’s Seaport council is moving ahead even in the winter season. The first section of the pier is expected to be complete enough to attract whale watching boats and smaller tour boats in the 2012 season. This new facility will certainly help the economy of the city, but will also impact this entire region. We will continue to monitor this project and report on progress as it continues.
Jim Crosby Honored
One of the most generous individuals in this region and a man I consider a personal friend was recently awarded the Lifebridge Presidents award for 2011. Jim Crosby who is the owner/operator of Crosby’s Markets is a benefactor to many worthwhile charities including Essex Heritage, the North Shore Medical Center Cancer Walk Hospice of the North Shore and many other organizations. The designation that came with the award said all that could be said about Jim Crosby. It was noted that Jim received the Presidential Award due in part for his continuing philanthropic generosity and unwavering support and encouragement to Lifebridge and its mission to end regional homelessness. Earlier Jim Crosby co-chaired a capital campaign for the organization. Congratulations Jim, on a most well deserved award and continuing good luck in the future
City of Peabody Offered Sincere sendoff to Fallen Firefighter
As this year came to a close the citizens of the City of Peabody turned out in incredible numbers to honor Firefighter James Rice who died in the line of duty. Jim was a part of several brotherhoods. His connection to the men and women of Fire Departments all over the state was most evident with the participation in the services. Jim was also part of the brotherhood of alumni at St John’s Prep in Danvers as a student, graduate and former Eagle athlete. Rest in Peace, hero, ames Rice
Boston Professional Sports
As 2011 comes to an end, the Patriots avenged an early season loss to Buffalo coming from 21 points down in the opening quarter. They also, wrapped up home field advantage through the playoffs through to the Super Bowl in early February 2012. The team is still looking for that perfect 60 minute game, but this week they played 45 pretty solid minutes and at the same time scored 49 straight points. The Celtics came home and won for the first time, and maybe that will get them on track. The Bruins had a seven game winning streak stopped on New Years Eve in Dallas in the middle game of a three game trip. Even the Red Sox made a couple of recent moves to strengthen their pitching outlook. So the beat seems to go on here in CHAMPIONSHIP CITY.
In a number of recent postings, I have noted a high level effort that had been established in Danvers to increase the level of recycling. The project has two primary goals, as the protection of the environment and the continuing effort to keep municipal expenses under controlare important components of the plan. The process will begin in earnest very early in the new year and regular rubbish collection will not be accepted unless recycled material is also curbside every week.. This may be a most positive initiative and the communities in the region might want to follow the progress of this effort. to learn if a plan to emulate this effort could be formulated.
Wonderful Regional Public Health Grant Received from the Commonwealth
I have always thought and Essex Heritage has always advocated for collaboration among and between local communities. A special grant totaling $325,000 has been received from the Commonwealth Department of Public Health that will allow eight southern Essex County communities to join together to share resources in the field of public health. The communities that have formed the North Shore Regional Public Health Program are: Peabody, Salem, Danvers, Marblehead, Swampscott, Nahant, Lynn and Beverly. The participating communities will remain independent but through an collaborate effort on some projects see great opportunities to work together on regional health issues. This is a wonderful initiative that certainly could lead to other opportunities to consider in the future as a way to both provide services more efficiently and in a less costly manner.
Danvers High School Project Report
Town officials from Danvers recently provided an update on one of the biggest projects in the Town’s history. The update noted that the renovation and new construction of the High School was now slightly over 43% complete. The very first manifestation of the progress on this project will be the re-opening of the field house very early in January 2012. An athletic event is scheduled in the Field House in the first couple of weeks in January. The rest of the project is now scheduled to be finished later this year and the April vacation period will be used to move “back in” to the new facility.
ENDICOTT COLLEGE BECOMES FIRST ON NORTH SHORE TO OFFER DOCTORAL DEGREE
Addition of new degree, Ed.D. in Educational Leadership Fuels Endicott College Growth
The following is an excerpt from a press release issued by the Beverly College and congratulations are offered on their recent success. They have come a long way from where they started.
Beverly, MA -- Endicott College President Dr. Richard E. Wylie today announced that on December 6, Endicott College will become the first college on Boston’s North Shore to be authorized to award a doctoral degree. Following program endorsement by the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, Endicott College will award a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership to qualified candidates. The Ed.D. in Educational Leadership will focus on preparing unique leaders for small to mid-size organizations in higher education, non-profit agencies, and schools. Emphasizing Endicott College’s strength, the program will focus on theory, research, and applying these skills to improving organizations.
City of Peabody Continues to Expand Municipal Recreational Opportunities
The City Council body of the leather city has recently voted to sign a new 99-year lease with the MBTA to gain rights to develop an enhanced rail trail in that community. That community already maintains a comprehensive 4.6 mile trail program for residents and visitors that runs east and west across the city from the North Shore Shopping Center to municipal community lines in Middleton and Lynnfield. The new section of the trail that would be 2.8 miles in length would cross the main trail and would connect with the Danvers trail currently under construction. The city is planning to offer residents adjacent to the trail the opportunity to offer their observations and funding to complete the work to prepare and pave the new trail. When completed this trail will fast become part of an ever expanding trail program stretching across the region. Essex Heritage has devoted a great deal of energy to this regional initiative as the work accomplished certainly adds to the Quality of Life offered in the region.
Hamilton and Wenham Abandon finance consolidation talks
I am certain that there were many sufficient reasons why the two adjacent communities of Hamilton and Wenham abandoned their recent discussions that might have led to a consolidation of some finance services. Clearly any consolidations around the region that could produce more efficient services and might save some local funds could be very helpful to any communities that might
consider such undertakings.
Important Gloucester Maritime Summit Talks can be Found On-line
Earlier this year, the City of Gloucester conducted a maritime summit to explore innovative methods to better utilize their famous working harbor. The experts who provided information were from the world of academics and technology. Those remarks have now been posted on the communities web site and can be found at www.gloucester-ma.gov. and by signing on, residents and other interested persons can have access to the findings discussed at the summit.
Town of Manchester By the Sea Seeking funds for Dredging from Massachusetts Seaport Council
The Town of Manchester has recently met with local officials to plan a strategy to apply to the Massachusetts Seaport Council for an allocation for funding to complete some dredging in the harbor of that community. The community has designated two locations within the harbor that would be greatly enhanced if that work could be accomplished. Town officials are aware of how competitive bidding is for these funds but the reward and the benefits would be so positive that a strong effort would be advanced to prove their case.
Danvers Rail Trail Advocates
The committed volunteers in Danvers that have long advocated for the recreational trail being built in that community continues to be most active. They are now assembling bike racks and installing mile markers on the trail. They also have a couple of trail cleanup days scheduled to get a jump on the 2012 season. The town of Danvers and the Town of Wenham are awaiting news as a result of a grant application that they have jointly applied for to the Commonwealth. Danvers would use their funding to improve the surface of the trail to mirror the surface the works very effectively on the trail in the community of Topsfield.
Salem Pier Work Progresses
Work on the commercial pier that is being built with support from the Commonwealth’s Seaport council is moving ahead even in the winter season. The first section of the pier is expected to be complete enough to attract whale watching boats and smaller tour boats in the 2012 season. This new facility will certainly help the economy of the city, but will also impact this entire region. We will continue to monitor this project and report on progress as it continues.
Jim Crosby Honored
One of the most generous individuals in this region and a man I consider a personal friend was recently awarded the Lifebridge Presidents award for 2011. Jim Crosby who is the owner/operator of Crosby’s Markets is a benefactor to many worthwhile charities including Essex Heritage, the North Shore Medical Center Cancer Walk Hospice of the North Shore and many other organizations. The designation that came with the award said all that could be said about Jim Crosby. It was noted that Jim received the Presidential Award due in part for his continuing philanthropic generosity and unwavering support and encouragement to Lifebridge and its mission to end regional homelessness. Earlier Jim Crosby co-chaired a capital campaign for the organization. Congratulations Jim, on a most well deserved award and continuing good luck in the future
City of Peabody Offered Sincere sendoff to Fallen Firefighter
As this year came to a close the citizens of the City of Peabody turned out in incredible numbers to honor Firefighter James Rice who died in the line of duty. Jim was a part of several brotherhoods. His connection to the men and women of Fire Departments all over the state was most evident with the participation in the services. Jim was also part of the brotherhood of alumni at St John’s Prep in Danvers as a student, graduate and former Eagle athlete. Rest in Peace, hero, ames Rice
Boston Professional Sports
As 2011 comes to an end, the Patriots avenged an early season loss to Buffalo coming from 21 points down in the opening quarter. They also, wrapped up home field advantage through the playoffs through to the Super Bowl in early February 2012. The team is still looking for that perfect 60 minute game, but this week they played 45 pretty solid minutes and at the same time scored 49 straight points. The Celtics came home and won for the first time, and maybe that will get them on track. The Bruins had a seven game winning streak stopped on New Years Eve in Dallas in the middle game of a three game trip. Even the Red Sox made a couple of recent moves to strengthen their pitching outlook. So the beat seems to go on here in CHAMPIONSHIP CITY.
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