Merrimack Valley Magazine

GLCF Announces New Afghan Resettlement Fund

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The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) recently announced a new GLCF Afghan Resettlement Fund. Unanimously approved by the GLCF board on Friday, September 10, the fund supports local nonprofits charged with Afghan refugee resettlements. With an influx of new refugees from Afghanistan arriving in Greater Lowell, the GLCF Afghan Resettlement Fund will support the efforts of Lowell organizations to help ensure those in need are welcomed and connected with housing, employment, transportation, food, acculturation, and other related support.

“In times of humanitarian need, GLCF gives where it is most needed in the community,” said Jay Linnehan, GLCF’s president and CEO. “As Afghan refugees and evacuees arrive in the coming months, the GLCF Afghan Resettlement Fund will support area nonprofits providing critical support needed to welcome and resettle this population.”

Donations to the GLCF Afghan Resettlement Fund can be made online here, or by mail to the GLCF Afghan Resettlement Fund c/o GLCF, 100 Merrimack Street, Suite 202, Lowell, MA 01852.

Jay Linnehan, GLCF’s President and CEO

 

NoteWorthy – 8/8/21

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Baker Sets Vaccine Mandate for Long-Term Care Staff

Under a new mandate rolled out by the Baker-Polito administration, Massachusetts long-term care workers will be required to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 10.

The Executive Office of Health and Human Services announced that skilled nursing facilities and the two state-run soldiers’ homes must ensure that all personnel, including those employed directly or by contract, are fully vaccinated to help protect older residents.

Massachusetts has 378 level one to level three skilled nursing facilities and two soldiers’ homes, who serve older adults more vulnerable to COVID-19, that will be covered by the mandate. The administration said Wednesday that 155 of those facilities had less than 75 percent of their staff fully vaccinated as of Monday.

Workers who are not yet vaccinated must receive a first dose by Sept. 1 and be fully vaccinated by Oct. 10 to comply with the new requirement. Anyone with medical restrictions or with sincerely held religious beliefs that prevents them from receiving vaccines will be exempt from the mandate.

The Edge Group Announces Merger with Lawrence’s Bell Tower Management

The Edge Group Inc. announced a merger with Bell Tower Management of Lawrence and will be expanding its services, staff and coverage area. The following statement was issued by Fred Faust of The Edge Group and Gary Sidell of Bell Tower Management LLC:

“This consolidation of our companies will enhance our services, from property management to brokerage and consulting. In terms of areas of service, we will now be able to work together in a coordinated fashion to cover the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire. On a personal basis, we have worked together informally for over 15 years and appreciate each other’s skills, experience and care for community.”

While keeping his existing role with current clients, Sidell will also assume overall responsibility for property management and administration, while Faust will now focus on brokerage and consulting. The Edge Group staff will remain in their current positions in the Lowell office.

 

Inspiring the Art of Community with ‘Imagina Arte’

Saturday, Aug. 21, marks the the grand reopening of Essex Art Center (EAC) under the new leadership of Monica Manoski. In celebration of the event, the street will close down for a block party featuring over 180 local works of art on display, live performances and activities.

To celebrate EAC’s work and highlight Lawrence’s creative community, Creative Collective and MassDevelopment TDI are hosting “Imagina Arte,” a collaborative after-party and pop-up art gallery.

This after-party is the third installment in the “Imagina Essex” series that features immersive exhibitions intended to inspire both residents and property owners of the possibilities that lie within vacant spaces in Lawrence’s downtown. To learn more about Imagina Essex and Creative Collective, click here.

GLCF’s Women Working Wonders Fund Awards More Than $56,000

The Women Working Wonders (WWW) Fund, a permanently endowed fund of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF),  has announced the recipients of $56,800 in grants. These grants will support local nonprofit programs that empower women and girls to effect positive change in the community.

WWW provides annual grants in three key areas: assist women in transition, provide leadership development, and contribute to the beautification of the environment.

Recipients of 2021 WWW grants include:

  • Budget Buddies for New Workshop for Women: Financial Health for Families with Children
  • Challenge Unlimited for Equine Encounter: Healing to Leadership for Girls and Women
  • Coalition for a Better Acre for Sewing Training Program
  • Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell for Leadership Academy
  • Refuge Lowell for Girls and Young Women Creating Community Through Public Art
  • International Institute of NE for Creating New Avenues for Success (CNAFS)

Jaffarian Volvo Cars Awarded 2020 Volvo Excellence Award

Jaffarian Volvo Cars received the Volvo Excellence Award from Volvo Cars USA in 2020. The award, which Jaffarian has won this four out of the last five years, recognizes those who deliver exceptional results in all aspects of a dealership’s operations.

The award qualifications include exceeding sales expectations, customer satisfaction for sales and service, achieving outstanding parts and accessories sales, and ensuring that each employee meets Volvo’s training requirements.

Beyond Walls in Search of Lowell Artists

This summer, Beyond Walls and Project LEARN are planning site-specific street art installations in Lowell and are calling for local, regional, national and international artists who are interested in collaborating with them for this project. Artists will have the opportunity to be a part of prioritizing Lowell’s creative and culturally enriched ecosystem.

Those interested in applying to join the initiative should fill out this form by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 18.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

MCC Professor and Alumna Awarded for Public Health Nursing

Gail Johnson, a public health nurse at the Westford Health Department and instructor of nursing at Middlesex Community College (MCC) received the Presidential award from the Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses (MAPHN). Johnson, who began her nursing education at MCC and earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Massachusetts Lowell in 2014, worked as a registered nurse at the Rehabilitation Hospital in Woburn for 22 years. For the past seven years, she has been working at the Westford Health Department. Johnson became an adjunct professor at MCC in 2017 where she works with students in the simulation lab. After working at the bedside of her patients for over 20 years, she is happy to now educate her community about the importance of health in all different aspects.

The Edge Group and Bell Tower Management Hire Sales Associate and Property Manager

Vladimir Saldana of Lowell was recently hired as by the Edge Group and Bell Tower Management as sales associate and property manager. Saldana graduated from University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) with a B.S. in business finance and management. He recently earned a certificate in project management from UML and graduated from the LEADS Fellowship Program. He is also a former staff member to U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan and was previously employed by Lawrence Community Works.

 

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Amesbury’s Shop Local-Opoly

Amesbury businesses and non-profits have teamed up to organize “Shop Local-Opoly,” encouraging the community to shop local. For the entire month of August, community members can participate in this game, where thirty-two businesses and nonprofits each signed up for a space — called a “property” — on the monopoly-like game board. While the game supports many local businesses, each category also has a property that can only be earned through a $5.00 donation to a particular nonprofit. Click here to access the game board.

GWL Greenway 5k

This year’s Groundwork Lawrence (GWL) Greenway 5K walk/run event will happen both remotely and in-person. Remote runners can register for the GWL Boundless 5K and run anytime between Aug. 8 and Aug. 15. Those interested in participating in the in-person event will run on Sunday, Aug. 15, at the Spicket River Greenway. Click here to register.

2021 Summer Theater Workshop

Registration is open for the Academy of Creative Arts at Trinity’s for the 2021 Summer Theater Workshop. Open to kids ages 6 t0 16, the program will be held  August 9 through 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with a 5 p.m. show on Friday, August 13. Participants will learn, rehearse and perform Roald Dahl’s beloved musical “Willy Wonka” kids version. No child will be turned away for financial issues. For details and access to the registration form, contact Janet King at jking@urbanbridgesinc.org.

Lazarus House Ministries Food & Clothing Drive

Help support a local cause and donate to the Lazarus House food and clothing drive on Saturday, Aug. 14. The event will be held at Central Catholic High School from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and participants will also have a chance to win one of three draw prizes by registering their donations. Visit here for details.

The Longest Table

Don’t miss Haverhill’s most exciting inclusive dining event. The Longest Table will be held on Thursday, Aug. 19, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This a 21+ event, and participating restaurants include 110 Grill, The Barking Dog, Casa Blanca, Essex Street Grille, The Hidden Pig, Krueger Flatbread, Battle Grounds Coffee, and more. Visit here for more information.

Diamonds & Pearls, Cash & Kings Fundraiser

Visit Blue Ocean Music Hall on Friday, Aug. 20, for Jozay and Patti, Diamonds & Pearls, and Cash & Kings, who will perform a benefit concert for the Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley. Accompanied by a 7-piece band, they will bring you the sounds of artists like Neil Diamond, Janis Joplin, Johnny Cash, Cher, Roy Orbison, Carole King and more. Visit here for more information, or click here to purchase tickets.

MVFB 27th Annual Golf Tournament

The Merrimack Valley Food Bank’s 27th Annual Golf Tournament and Awards Dinner will be held on Monday, Sept. 13, at Indian Ridge Country Club, with registration beginning at 11:00 a.m. The tournament will honor the heroic staff at Lowell General Hospital, and your participation directly supports the MVFB’s mission. Visit here to register.

25th Annual Elder Services Golf Classic

Bring out your inner Phil Mickelson and support a good cause during the 25th Annual Elder Services Golf Classic on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at the Haverhill Golf & Country Club. The event features contents, raffle prizes, a luncheon, a $10,000 putting content, and more. This event sells out on a regular basis so visit here to save your spot today.

19th Annual Mill City Mentors Golf Tournament

Enjoy a day of golf while supporting a good cause during the 19th Annual Mill City Mentors Golf Tournament. The event supports Community Teamwork’s Mill City Mentors program, and takes place on Thursday, Sept. 16, at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua. Click here to learn more.

Tour de Greenbelt: Cycle for Land Conservation

For beginner riders to seasoned cyclists, Essex County Greenbelt’s annual Tour de Greenbelt: Cycle for Land Conservation offers a variety of courses to fit all abilities. Taking place on Saturday, Sept. 18, the ride benefits Greenbelt’s local land conservation work, and cyclists will enjoy routes that wind through the scenic landscapes of Essex County. Click here to learn more and register for the event.

Emmaus Annual Cycle for Shelter

Registration is now open for the 2021 Cycle for Shelter. Join the ride to help raise money to defeat homelessness. This year riders have the option of riding virtually or joining in-person on Sunday, September 19, if COVID restrictions allow. If the in-person ride is limited in numbers due to state restrictions, the event will operate under a “first-come, first-served” model and those who registered first will have the opportunity to participate. Click here to register.

LGH TeamWalk for CancerCare

Last year, Lowell General Hospital transitioned their annual TeamWalk for CancerCare to TeamWalk on your terms, and the will be continuing this tradition this year. TeamWalk on Your Terms allows you to hold TeamWalk on your turf and on your time. When it is safe and you feel comfortable, simply choose when and where you want to walk. Get your team together for a three or six mile walk on the date and time of your choosing. You can walk anywhere between May 23 and September 1. For details, click here. 

Merrimack Valley Hospice’s Virtual Silent Auction

This year, Merrimack Valley Hospice’s annual food, wine, beer-sampling and silent auction is going virtual. Enjoy a snack and your favorite beverage browsing their auction items from the comfort of home. Proceeds will benefit Merrimack Valley Hospice’s comfort care and supportive services for patients nearing the end of life and bereavement services for their families and loved ones. The auction will run from Thursday, Sept. 23, to Saturday, Sept. 25. Click here for more information.

The Wish Project: Backpack Attack

July 1 through mid-September. New, filled backpacks are distributed to children in need in the Merrimack Valley. For a $60 donation, The Wish Project can provide a complete backpack filled with all of the school supplies that a child needs to begin school. Learn more here.

2021 October Fun Fest

Support the Community Giving Tree and have some fun at the October Fun Fest on Saturday, Oct. 2, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. This event will feature True North Ales beer truck, the Urban Epicurean mobile pizza oven, and music from the local band RevelUp. All proceeds from this event will support Community Giving Tree’s programs that provide everyday essentials to local children in need. Visit here to find out more.

29th Annual Trot for Special Tots 5K Road Race

The Professional Center for Child Development, a local non-profit, will host its 29th Annual 5K Road Race – Trot for Special Tots, on Saturday, Oct 2, at 32 Osgood Street in Andover. The event spreads awareness for the programs they offer, such as early intervention, special education school and child care, and raises funds to support children and families throughout the Merrimack Valley. Click here for more information.

Smiles4Families Dental Fund

The Lowell Health Community Center (LCHC) is looking for support for the Smiles4Families Dental Fund. Dental care can be very expensive, and many procedures are not covered by insurance companies. By donating to the Smiles4Families Fund, you will help the LCHC assure that every patient has access to exactly the dental care they need — regardless of ability to pay. Visit here to donate.

Greater Lawrence Summer Fund

Consider providing opportunities for thousands of children this summer by donating to the Greater Lawrence Summer Fund. The fund gives children from low-income families a chance to experience life-changing summer activities that not only keep them safe but provides them with opportunities that open doors for a promising future. Click here to consider helping this community organization.

NoteWorthy – 7/18/21

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AROUND THE VALLEY

MRT Appoints Malika Oyetimein to Artist in Residence 

Malika Oyetimein, director of Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s (MRT) critically acclaimed video production of “Fannie Lou Hamer: Speak On It!” last fall, will serve as the company’s artist in residence for the 2021-22 season. Her role will include the direction of a new play workshop, season planning support, artistic hiring and community engagement consulting.

Oyetimein’s directing credits include “Bootycandy” and “Barbecue” at Intiman Theatre Festival; “Hoodoo Love” at Sound Theatre Company; “And In This Corner … Cassius Clay” at Seattle Children’s Theatre; and “The First Deep Breath” for the National Black Theatre. A member of the Directors Lab at Lincoln Center Theater, she is also the co-adapter and director of  Maya Angelou’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” and a graduate of the MFA program at The University of Washington’s school of drama.

Baker-Polito Administration Kicks Off Statewide Small Business Tour in Lowell

On Thursday, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito joined Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy and local business, community and municipal leaders on the first stop of a statewide small business and downtown conversation tour. The purpose of the tour is to celebrate the commonwealth’s reopening and discuss the administration’s $2.9 billion proposal for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to jumpstart the commonwealth’s economic recovery.

The tour will continue throughout the summer and will stop at approximately two dozen city and town centers across Massachusetts. Each stop will include a tour of downtown and main street businesses and a roundtable conversation with business owners, community leaders, and state and local officials to engage directly on how the administration can continue to offer necessary support for economic recovery.

While Massachusetts is known as a global leader in industries such as life sciences and the innovation economy, research conducted by the US Small Business Administration found that prior to the pandemic, more than 45% of the entire commonwealth’s workforce was employed by a small business.

 

NECC Prepares for a Fall Return to Campus

Northern Essex Community College’s (NECC) COVID response team has been working with college maintenance staff for months to prepare the campuses so that faculty, staff, students, and the community can safely return. This fall, at least 25% of classes will be taught on campus, and it’s expected that most employees will be on campus by September as well. Classes for the fall semester begin Sept. 8.

CARES Act Investments
Approximately $1.4 million in CARES Act funding has been invested to make the campus safer and help prevent the spread of the virus. With this funding, the college has purchased 96 air scrubbers—stand-alone virus killing machines— and the ducts on all campus buildings have been thoroughly cleaned and outfitted with MERV filters that capture mold, pollen, and more.

Mask Requirements
At this time, anyone who has been fully vaccinated is not required to wear a mask, unless they are in a classroom. Those who have not been vaccinated are asked to mask-up indoors, unless eating or in their offices alone. Anyone who wants to wear a mask, whether vaccinated or not, is encouraged to do so, and the college has masks, including N95 masks, available upon request for free to faculty, staff, and students.

Haverhill Mayor Announces Re-Election Campaign

Mayor James Fiorentini has announced his intention to seek re-election and continue leading the city of Haverhill. He began his campaign in June with a fundraising event at The Tap in downtown Haverhill.

Fiorentini’s new budget, which was approved by City Council on June 29, provides school funding, resources for the police department and a local health department.

According to the mayor, the city has an opportunity to further revitalize and grow downtown by remaking the Merrimack Street entrance. He also said that guiding the Consentino School project will be a focus of his next term.

Essex Art Center Installs Art Along Lawrence Canal

Essex Art Center announced “Gateway to the Arts,” a public art installation along the city’s canal from Union Street to the bridge between Island Street and Canal Street.

Gateway to the Arts is a temporary multimedia public art piece that will include painting the city’s sidewalks and installing plants and lights will the goal of highlighting Lawrence’s canal way and establishing a vibrant arts and culture district.

The painting of the sidewalks along the canal will start in mid-July. The installation will be complete in time for Essex Art Center’s grand reopening celebration and block party on Saturday, Aug. 21. This free, community and family-focused event will run from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and include art activities, live music, and an exhibition of the region’s diverse artistic talents.

Andover Community Blood Drive to Honor ‘Jamesy’s Journey’ on July 24

In July 2020, 3-year-old James Lino of Dracut was diagnosed with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Although he is now in remission, the treatment protocol — which includes supplemental blood as well as chemotherapy — will continue through November 19, 2022.

On Saturday, July 24, 2021, a community blood drive in honor of “Jamesey’s Journey” will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Andover Town Hall. The event was coordinated by Phil Liaboe, James’s grandfather, to raise awareness of the impact of the nationwide blood shortage on many different kinds of patients: a young child with a rare blood disorder, a family member fighting cancer or a friend involved in a car accident.

Click here schedule an appointment and enter Jamesy’s Journey.

Trahan, Donoghue, UML Leaders Highlight American Rescue Plan Funding

U.S Rep. Lori Trahan and Lowell City Manager Eileen Donoghue participated in a briefing with University of Massachusetts System President Marty Meehan, University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) Chancellor Jacquie Moloney, and other UML officials on how the university will put relief funding from the American Rescue Plan to work.

UML was recently awarded $27,551,474 in higher education relief funding from the American Rescue Plan to address severe financial challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and continue serving their students safely. UML officials said the funds will help strengthen the university’s programs for first-generation students, diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, and environmental sustainability initiatives.

The American Rescue Plan allocated a total of $36 billion for nearly 3,500 public and private, nonprofit colleges and universities nationwide. Colleges and students in Massachusetts’ third congressional district received a total of $81,819,954 of that emergency funding. At least half of the funding will be distributed in the form of emergency cash assistance grants to students who are facing hunger, homelessness, and other hardships.

Feaster Five Thanksgiving Returns to Andover for In-Person Race

The Thanksgiving Day Feaster Five Road Race announced its return to downtown Andover with an in-person race this year.

Registration for the 34th Annual Feaster Five Road Race is now open and race day is November 25 in downtown Andover, with a three-day race expo beginning November 22 at the Merrimack Valley YMCA.

Over the last 30 years, thousands of people have gathered their families together to run or walk the 5K or 5-mile route that weaves through downtown Andover, finishing at Andover Landing at Brickstone Square. All race finishers receive a Table Talk Apple Pie — a Feaster Five tradition. Click here to register for the race.

Essex County Sheriff Department Celebrates Inmates Who Completed Educational Programming

On June 29, a recognition ceremony was held at the Middleton House of Correction for Essex County Sheriff Department (ECSD) inmates who have completed educational programs. Students were recognized by Education Director Darla Lamanna and the Northern Essex Community College (NECC) staff for successfully completing programs offered by the college.

NECC has been offering educational programming for the Essex County Sheriff’s Department since 2019 when the college was selected as part of a competitive grant process. Programs included preparation classes for students taking the HiSET (high school equivalency) exam; three-credit college courses; and a week-long peer class leading to certification as a peer tutor.

NECC maintains a staff at the Middleton House of Correction, including on-site academic and career advisors; learning specialists; law librarians for the inmates’ library, which NECC manages; and a program director.

GLCF Announces LHS Scholarship Established in Honor of Gabriel Cuevas

The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) announced the establishment of the Gabriel Cuevas Memorial Scholarship Fund. This new scholarship fund honors Gabriel’s spirit of giving by annually awarding a Lowell High School (LHS) senior up to $1000.

Gabriel Cuevas passed away unexpectedly in August 2020, just before beginning his senior year at LHS. Cuevas, a beloved son, brother, and friend, used his voice to lift those marginalized and excluded in school and society. Additionally, Cuevas was also a dedicated member of Aaron’s Presents, an organization that provides opportunities for young people to build community and care for others. Aaron’s Presents founder Leah Okimoto established the Gabriel Cuevas Memorial Scholarship Fund through GLCF to honor his memory.

Whittier Birthplace Reopens for Tours

This month, the Whittier Birthplace in Haverhill has reopened for in-person tours after months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The historic Whittier Birthplace was originally organized over a century ago, in December 1892, in order to preserve the historic landscape, house, and other buildings in the same condition as when John Greenleaf Whittier lived on the farmstead. The building is now a tour site maintaining the legacy of Whittier’s literary and abolition.

Whittier, born and raised in Haverhill, Mass., in the 19th century, was a bestselling poet who was active in the abolitionist cause. Visit here to book a tour of this local site.

NMYO Announces In-Person Rehearsals & Concerts

Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestras (NMYO) is back for in-person rehearsals and concerts. Now accepting video auditions, NMYO is looking for young musicians to join its ensembles for the 2021-2022 academic season.

The NYMO offers a space to play your instrument, perform in concert, and socialize with other young players. String, Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion students, at all levels of playing, are invited to audition. Musicians new to NMYO and returning students who wish to move to a different ensemble, are required to submit a video consisting of two scales and a piece of your choosing. Returning musicians who wish to remain in their current NMYO ensemble simply need to register.

NMYO offers seven ensembles including two beginning string. Small chamber music ensembles are also offered as part of the Symphony program. These ensembles perform two major concerts and several smaller concerts annually.

Windrush Farm Announces Scholarship for Therapeutic Horseback Riding this Fall

Windrush Farm in North Andover announced that they will offer a new Kathy Blanton Memorial Scholarship to provide an opportunity for a child adolescent, or adult with disabilities to partake in a therapeutic riding session this fall.

The scholarship is for a participant over the age of six, with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges whose family qualifies on financial need and consideration of circumstances. The scholarship is for an individual who has not previously participated in a therapeutic riding program.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Haverhill Police Chief Sworn-in at City Hall

Robert Pistone was officially sworn-in as Haverhill’s new police chief at a City Hall ceremony on Friday, July 16. Pistone is a 22-year veteran of the Haverhill Police Department.

 

 

 

Haverhill Bank Promotes Employee to Branch Manager

Alison Barker was recently promoted to branch manager of Haverhill Bank’s Salem, N.H., branch. Barker has 18 years of banking experience and joined Haverhill Bank four years ago, working as a universal banker and assistant branch manager. Barker is a resident of Atkinson, N.H., and graduated from Winnacunnet High School, in Hampton, N.H.

 

 

New Executive Director Heralds Bread & Roses’ Reopening

Jessica Perrault-Gordon has extensive experience with individuals facing addiction, incarceration, homelessness, and mental illness, and remains steadfast in her passion for social justice and economic equality. Her first initiative at the helm of Bread & Roses will be bringing mobile vaccine stations to Newbury Street in an effort to boost vaccination rates community wide.

 

 

NoteWorthy – 6/20/21

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Dune Renourishment Project to Begin on Salisbury Beach

The state legislative delegation and local stakeholders announced the approval and commencement of a dune renourishment project on Salisbury Beach.

Following a significant storm this past February and several instances of dune erosion and storm surges in Salisbury, funding has been secured and allocated for the purchase of sand and permits have been approved for dune renourishment on Salisbury Beach. The approval of the project comes on the heels of months of advocacy from the state delegation and local stakeholders.

The project will consist of the placement of sand along numerous dunes in the North End Boulevard area, aimed at improving public ways and providing residents with protections for their properties.

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $30 Million in Additional Support for Massachusetts Small Businesses and $2.8 Billion in Federal COVID-19 Funding

The Baker-Polito administration announced $30 million in state funding across four grant programs administered by the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) to help small businesses recover.

Among these investments, the administration announced the award of $4 million to 45 nonprofit technical assistance providers to continue working with small businesses and entrepreneurs from traditionally underserved communities to grow and expand their businesses. In addition, the administration announced $14.7 million in awards to 15 organizations under MGCC’s Community Development Financial Institution and Community Development Corporation’s (CDFI and CDC) Match Grant Program, which funds both lending and mini-grant programs for small businesses.

This round of Small Business Technical Assistance Grant program awards represents a $4 million commitment to qualifying nonprofits that help businesses build operational capacity and strengthen ongoing business development activities, such as one-on-one guidance around applying for loans, building a business plan, and budgeting.

The administration also announced a plan to immediately put to use approximately $2.815 billion of the commonwealth’s direct federal aid to support key priorities including housing and homeownership, economic development and local downtowns, job training and workforce development, healthcare, and infrastructure.

The plan was announced at the Mount Washington Homes in Haverhill and includes $200 million for programs that aim to close the wealth gap faced by communities of color by connecting first-time homebuyers with homeownership opportunities.

 

 

GLCF Announces New Steven Joncas Community Connector Award at Annual Meeting

Over 150 residents, business leaders, and nonprofit professionals attended the virtual Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF)’s 2021 annual meeting on Tuesday, June 8. GLCF announced that a new Steven Joncas Community Connector Award has been established by the foundation in honor of outgoing longtime board member’s commitment to the community.

The inaugural GLCF Steven Joncas Community Connector Award will be given at GLCF’s Celebrate Giving on October 13. The award will be given to a community member nominated by individuals and organizations who has stood out in their support of the Greater Lowell community through one or more extraordinary acts during the year. The award recipient will be able to select a Greater Lowell nonprofit to receive $1000 from GLCF. Nominations for the GLCF Steven Joncas Community Connector Award will open in September.

 

Lowell General Ends Operations at Cross River Center Vaccination Site

Lowell General Hospital has closed its regional vaccine site at Cross River Center and will shift its COVID-19 vaccination efforts to the Saints campus beginning Tuesday, June 22.

All future vaccination appointments will be at the Chest and Immunization Center located on the fourth floor of the Saints campus at 1 Hospital Drive. To schedule an appointment, members of the community should to continue to visit LowellGeneralVaccine.com and click the SCHEDULE MY APPOINTMENT button. The website will redirect patients once appointments are shifted to the hospital’s central scheduling phone line.

Home Health VNA Awards Memorial Scholarship to Greater Lawrence Technical School Graduate

Home Health VNA has awarded a scholarship presented annually in memory of a former employee to Rechelly Paula, a Lawrence resident and graduate of the Health Careers Department at Greater Lawrence Technical School in Andover. Paula plans to study nursing at Barry University in Miami this fall with the goal of becoming a physician assistant.

The $500 scholarship was established in 1995 as a tribute to Lisa Santiago Ventura, who sustained fatal injuries after being struck during a high-speed police chase while driving to care for a patient. In her memory, Home Health VNA awards the Lisa Santiago Ventura Memorial Scholarship to a graduating senior of Greater Lawrence Technical School where she was once a student.

At Greater Lawrence Technical School, Paula was vice president of the Class of 2021 and nominated as a 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholar in Career and Technical Education. A member of the National Honor Society with a 4.02 GPA, she gained work experience in nursing home and hospital settings and was a four-sport athlete competing in softball, basketball, cross-country and swimming.

NECC Joins President Biden’s COVID 19 Challenge

Northern Essex Community College (NECC) has joined the White House COVID-19 College Vaccine Challenge, along with colleges and universities across the country. Announced by the White House and U.S. Department of Education earlier this month, the challenge is part of President Joe Biden’s goal to get 70% of U.S. adults vaccinated with at least a first dose by July 4.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 44.4% of the U.S. population has been fully vaccinated, 58% in Massachusetts. In Essex County 54% of the population has been fully vaccinated, with some communities lagging behind, such as Lawrence, where 37.9% of the population is vaccinated.

Participating colleges commit to three actions: engaging every student, faculty, and staff member; organizing campus communities around vaccine efforts; and delivering vaccine access for all.

JDCU teams with Lowell General to Calm Children in the ED

A trip to the emergency department can be a frightening experience for anyone, let alone children. Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union (JDCU) teamed up with Lowell General Hospital to bring smiles to those scared faces by donating the Smile Station, a cart loaded with card games, fidget toys, activity books, and more. The goal of the Smile Station is distracting and entertaining a young patient in a time of high anxiety. Pediatric patients comprise about 1 in 5 visits to Lowell General’s emergency department.

The donation is part of the Small Acts That Give Back program, a longtime effort by Jeanne D’Arc to spread joy to neighbors and members of the community. A cart was donated to both the main and Saints campus emergency departments.

NoteWorthy – 6/6/21

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AROUND THE VALLEY

MRWC Recognized by New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) Drinking Water and Groundwater Bureau recently recognized the Merrimack River Watershed Council (MWRC) at its annual Drinking Water Source Protection Conference on Wednesday, May 19. The award was presented as part of a two-day conference held on May 19 and 20.

The MWRC received the agency’s Source Water Protection Award for work to protect New Hampshire’s drinking water. The organization was also recognized for its work to secure $6.9 million dollars in federal funding to coordinate water supply and conservation partners in a statewide effort to permanently protect critical water supply lands and improve land management practices, primarily on land protected by easements.

UML Geologist Identifies New Form of Quasicrystal 

A UMass Lowell (UML) geologist is among the researchers who have discovered a new type of human-made quasicrystal created by the first test blast of an atomic bomb.

The formation holds promise as a new material that could one day help repair bone, insulate heat or convert heat to electricity, or aid in the use of prosthetics, according to UML Prof. G. Nelson Eby, a member of the university’s environmental, earth and atmospheric sciences department.

Eby is a member of the research team that identified the quasicrystal substance inside samples of trinitite they examined that were collected from the debris of the first atomic bomb detonated by the U.S. Army on July 16, 1945 in the New Mexico desert. Also known as atomic rock, trinitite is a glassy material produced by the extreme heat and pressure unleashed by detonated atomic devices.

The research team’s findings were published last month in the academic journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

 

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $109 Million in Direct Federal Aid for Four Communities

 The Baker-Polito Administration announced a total of $109 million in discretionary funding from the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) will be distributed today to Methuen, Chelsea, Everett and Randolph. These four communities were amongst the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, but due to shortcomings in the federal ARPA funding formula, were set to receive disproportionately smaller amounts of federal funding compared to other hard-hit communities.

Methuen received $26.3 million in funding.

These municipalities will be able to use these funds to support costs related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including direct response efforts, addressing negative economic impacts, replacing revenue lost during the pandemic, making investments in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure, as well as other eligible expenditures.

DiZoglio Secures State Funds for Lake Gardner Beach Renovations

Among the local funds secured by state Sen. Diana DiZoglio in the fiscal year 2022 Senate budget is $100,000 toward renovations at Lake Gardner beach in Amesbury.

Recently, local stakeholders have been working to address a variety of issues at Lake Gardner. The city will be hiring a beach director this season to ensure a consistent presence at the beach and the local department of public works has been making improvements to the bathrooms. They are also considering a potential tenant, such as a coffee shop or kayak rental company, to use the small commercial space in the building.

However, the city needs improvement of the parking area and in particular access to the beach and surrounding park in order to ensure compliance with Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

MCC Staff Members Awarded for Excellence During Pandemic

Two Middlesex Community College (MCC) staff members from their office of online learning received League Excellence Awards from the League for Innovation. Roxanne McCorry, MCC’s director of online learning and Blackboard support, and Daniela Loghin, MCC’s coordinator for academic resources, were recognized for supporting the college throughout the pandemic in the transition of coursework and student services to remote, virtual and limited contact systems.

Phil Sisson, MCC’s president-elect, calls McCorry and Loghin “consistently instrumental” to MCC’s success throughout the pandemic. Their support of faculty in the adjustment to online teaching has continued to be a valuable resource.

 

MRT Young Company to Switch to All In-Person Programs for Summer 2021

The Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s (MRT) Young Company, a summer intensive for teenagers, will return to in-person workshops this year, from July 12 to 30. The Young Company is an educational theater experience for students 14 to 18 years of age with an interest in all aspects of the performing arts and new play development. Director Robert Cornelius will return to lead the course.

Students will explore acting and performance, scene analysis and monologue work, as well as collaborative playwriting of their own original scripts. The students will be joined by nationally recognized playwrights, actors and directors.

Bread & Roses Awards Inaugural Robert Lanzoni Scholarship in Support of Education in Lawrence

Established to honor longtime Bread & Roses volunteer and executive director Bob Lanzoni, who passed away in Nov. 2020, the Robert Lanzoni Scholarship reflects his commitment and dedication to improving the lives of the people of Lawrence, particularly the many student volunteers who served with Bread & Roses.

Reflecting the educational challenges for students and their families in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a total of $6,000 was distributed to Si Se Puede, Esperanza Academy and Notre Dame Christo Rey High School.

UML Program for First-Generation College Students Receives $100K Grant

UMass Lowell’s (UML) nationally recognized program for first-generation college students is expanding its services with the support of a $100,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation.

The award will allow the UML River Hawk Scholars Academy (RHSA) to grow the academic and support services it provides to enhance educational, campus and community experiences for full-time UML students who are the first in their families to attend college.

Forty-one percent of UML undergraduates are first-generation college students. Over the last academic year, the River Hawk Scholars Academy assisted more than 400 participants and anticipates serving more than 400 students this fall. Since it began in 2017, more than 1,000 UML first-generation college students have benefited from the program.

Community Teamwork and MCC Awarded $100k Cummings Grants

Community Teamwork and Middlesex Community College (MCC) are two of the 140 local nonprofits that will receive grants of $100,000 to $500,000 each through Cummings Foundation’s $25 Million Grant Program.

Community Teamwork will use the funding from the Cummings Foundation, to support its culinary arts vocational tract for at-risk youth interested in entering the hospitality industry. After a recent successful capital campaign, Community Teamwork was able to install a commercial kitchen at its Youth Opportunity Center.

For MCC, funding from the Cummings Grant will go toward helping students enrolled in MCC’s entrepreneurial or certificate programs launch and grow their businesses. MCC can also connect students with resources such as mentors, networking, budget review and personal support.

 

GLCF awards $180K in additional COVID-19 Response Grants to Address Youth Food Insecurity

The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) announced it deployed a new round of COVID-19 related grants, providing an additional $180,000 to 17 area nonprofits in greater Lowell addressing youth food insecurity needs. These grants were part of the latest round of distributions from the commonwealth COVID Grant Program and GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund.

The 17 nonprofits receiving grants in the latest round of the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to address youth food insecurity include the Billerica Community Pantry Inc., the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, Community Teamwork Inc., Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell, Greater Lowell Family YMCA – Merrimack Valley Food Bank Inc., Middlesex Community College, Mill City Grows, YWCA of Lowell and more. 

Since March 2020, through grants from its GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, Massachusetts COVID Relief Fund, and Commonwealth COVID Grant Program, the foundation has supported 127 local nonprofit organizations with 301 grants totaling over $4.1 million.

Museum of Printing President Celebrates 80th Birthday

Museum of Printing President Frank Romano is celebrating his 80th birthday this year and the museum is asking everyone to join in the celebration of what they are calling a Year of Frank.

Romano, who spent over 60 years in the printing industry, generously donated the building and his voluminous library to the museum. He founded the publication TypeWorld and has been the editor for many editions of “Pocket Pal: The Handy Book of Graphic Arts Production.” He also spent years as a professor at Rochester Institute of Technology and California Polytechnic State University, and is the author of more than 60 books on topics related to the printing industry.

Haverhill Mayor Announces $462K in Southwick Tax Breaks Returned to City

The city of Haverhill has successfully recovered $462,000 in tax breaks it gave the owners of the former Southwick Clothing factory in exchange for opening a manufacturing facility in Haverhill’s Broadway business park in 2014.

The 2014 agreement, approved by the mayor and city council, granted Southwick’s parent company, Golden Fleece Manufacturing Group LLC, the tax credits in exchange for moving from Lawrence to Haverhill, keeping 468 permanent local jobs and adding another 70 new jobs by 2018. The company was in talks at the time to move its jobs and the plant, which was known for making Brooks Brothers suits, outside the United States.

When Southwick abruptly announced last year that it was declaring bankruptcy and closing the Haverhill factory, Fiorentini declared he would fight to recoup the back taxes. After the city filed a claim in federal bankruptcy court, the parties were able to reach an agreement and the city received a check for $461,924.72 last month.

The city cannot spend the funds until they are certified by the state Department of Revenue as so-called free cash, which is expected in October or November.

The court’s bankruptcy court ruling paved the way for the owners of the former Southwick factory to sell the property at 25 Computer Drive for $14 million to Boston-based Eastern Real Estate. The new owners are leasing the property to Amazon, which is currently renovating the building with plans to open a “last-mile” merchandise delivery hub there. Amazon is one of three companies, including a high-tech center and a large food-making plant, that are brining approximately 750 jobs to Haverhill this year.

Martha Velez of Lawrence Chosen to Receive Community Leadership Award 

On Thursday, the Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA) announced that it will present its Community Leadership Award to Martha Velez of Lawrence for her outstanding service to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic and following the 2018 Columbia Gas explosions. The Community Leadership award is given to an elected or appointed official who has made a major contribution to the health of residents in their community.

Velez is the director of human services for the city of Lawrence, overseeing the council on aging, veterans’ services office, recreation department, Mayor’s health task force, and the human rights committee.

Lowell General shifting vaccination program from regional site into hospital operations

As the demand for a large-scale regional mass vaccination site diminishes in Greater Lowell, Lowell General Hospital (LGH) will shift its Mass Vaccination Program into normal hospital operations at its Saints Campus beginning Tuesday, June 22.

Since December, 2020, the MVP program has administered more than 140,000 doses of the vaccine, first at Lowell General’s main campus and then at the Cross River Center, where as many as 3,000 doses per day were administered at the peak of demand.

The last day of operations at Cross River Center will be Tuesday, June 15.

To schedule an appointment, members of the community should to continue to visit LowellGeneralVaccine.com and click the SCHEDULE MY APPOINTMENT button. The website will redirect patients once appointments are shifted to the hospital’s central scheduling phone line in the coming weeks.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

NECC Grad Selected for State Department Fellowship
Enoch Masih of Andover, a Northern Essex Community College (NECC) computer and information science program graduate, is one of only 15 students from across the country to be selected for the prestigious Foreign Affairs Information Technology Fellowship program, funded by the U.S. Department of State. While working at a nearby Apple store, Masih discovered that he might have a future in the technology industry. Masih was involved on-campus as peer tutor and a member of the National Society of Leadership & Success. Masih graduated from NECC in Dec. 2020 and will transfer to UMass Lowell this fall to get his bachelor’s in information technology.

 

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