Merrimack Valley Magazine

NoteWorthy – 11/22/20

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Greater Lowell Community Foundation Tackles Food Insecurity

The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) announced it deployed a new round of COVID-19 related grants, providing an additional $150,000 to 13 area nonprofits addressing an unprecedented spike in demand for food amid the coronavirus crisis.

Massachusetts’ food insecurity rate has worsened since 2018, the hunger rate in the state has increased 59%, according to a recent report released by Feeding America at the end of October.

The 13 nonprofits receiving these grants serve more than 67,000 food insecure individuals in all 20 GLCF communities via food pantries, elder services and a food bank. These grants were made possible by a $75,000 anonymous donor match that partnered with the GLCF to distribute funding to area nonprofits battling hunger in Greater Lowell.

The 13 nonprofits receiving grants in the latest round of the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to address food insecurity are:

• Billerica Community Pantry, Inc.
• Chelmsford Community Exchange
• Dwelling House of Hope
• Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley, Inc.
• End 68 Hours of Hunger/Dracut
• Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, Inc. (Ayer, Dunstable, Groton, Littleton and Shirley)
• Merrimack Valley Food Bank, Inc.
• Minuteman Senior Services
• Open Pantry of Greater Lowell, Inc.
• People Helping People, Inc. (Burlington)
• Pepperell Aid from Community to Home (PACH Outreach)
• Stone Soup Kitchen – Living Water Fellowship (Ayer)
• Westford Food Pantry

Donations to the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund can be made online at www.glcfoundation.org.

 

Lowell General Hospital Imposes Visitor Restrictions Due to Rising COVID-19 Cases

With COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations rising steadily across Greater Lowell, Lowell General Hospital and Circle Health have made the difficult decision to restrict visitors at all locations inpatient and outpatient locations, effective at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18.

The following exceptions will be taken into account: end-of-life care, maternity patients, pediatric patients and other situations that are pre-approved by a patient’s care team. Lowell General had previously been allowing one support person for one hour per day.

“We know this decision will be difficult for families who have loved ones in our care, but at this time we feel it’s an important step to maintain a safe and healing environment for our patients,” said Jody White, President and CEO of Lowell General Hospital and Circle Health. “The health and safety of our patients and staff remain our highest priorities.”

For the latest information our COVID-19 related policies and services, visit here.

 

Enterprise Bank Named Best Place to Work Among Large Companies

Enterprise Bank has once again been named the number one place to work among large-sized companies in the employee-based “Top Places to Work” survey from The Boston Globe. Enterprise Bank has been recognized as a top employer since 2012.

In a joint statement, Chairman George L. Duncan, President Richard W. Main, CEO Jack Clancy and Chief Human Resources Officer Jamie Gabriel said “We are deeply honored and humbled that the opinions of our team members have earned us recognition as the Top Place to Work. There is nothing more important to us than our Enterprise Family, who have made Enterprise what it is today. Our team and work environment are our greatest asset. We are truly a family—united by our core values of integrity, community, excellence, teamwork and professionalism.”

 

Lupoli Officially Opens 34 Park

Sal Lupoli was joined by State Rep. Tram Nguyen and State Sen. Barry Feingold on Wednesday to officially open 34 Park in Andover.

34 Park is a new concept opened in the fully renovated space that was formerly the Andover Salvatore’s. The new menu, developed by executive chef Jimi Gallant, offers a fresh take on authentic Italian that features locally sourced ingredients.

Courtesy of Lupoli Co’s

Open for lunch and dinner during the week, the Lupoli team is very excited about their brunch offering on Saturdays and Sundays. “There is brunch, then there is brunch at 34 Park,” says Gallant. “The portions, the menu, and the atmosphere all come together to make 34 Park’s brunch an experience unique to our restaurant. We’re so proud to be able to provide Andover with something truly different.”

The Lupoli Companies recently opened The Heights at Haverhill that will feature two restaurants that will open in 2021, Bosa on the ground floor and Bar Bosa on the 10th floor. Sal’s Mobile, an app, food truck and delivery service, now has five vehicles operating in eastern Massachusetts, including in the Greater Lowell area.

 

Stones Hospitality Group Offers Special Thanksgiving Dine-In and Carry-Out Menus

( Sponsored ) For the first time in their 28th year of owning restaurants, Scott and Kathy Plath of the Stones Hospitality Group will open Cobblestones of Lowell on Thanksgiving. Here is a link if you are interested in having them prepare a holiday meal for you and your loved ones, in-house or takeout. Please share if you know of someone who may also enjoy this rare opportunity.

With the announcement, the Stones Hospitality Group noted their gratitude for those staff members who have helped their restaurants survive thus far, assuming risk daily without losing focus on the best interests of their coworkers and guests.

A three-course meal runs for $38.95 per person and includes butternut squash bisque, cranberry sauce, turkey, stuffing, gravy, rolls and pumpkin cheesecake. You may also add baked ham or slow- roasted prime rib.

For dine-in reservations in their spacious dining room, call (978) 970-2282.

For pick-up and delivery you can see the menu here order and using this link. Place your order by Monday, November 23.

 

Salem Attorney Receives NECC’s 2020 Outstanding Alumni Award

Salem, Mass. resident and Northern Essex Community College alumna Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette has been selected as the 2020 recipient of the NECC Outstanding Alumni Award. The award is an honor granted on an annual basis to a graduate who has achieved career-related success, is active in the local community and/or has exemplified active support for the college’s efforts. Her nomination was announced following a vote by the NECC Alumni Board, with support from President Lane Glenn.

Covarrubias-Doucette, a practicing attorney who holds a juris doctorate from New England Law, in addition to two bachelor’s degrees from UMass Lowell and an associate degree in paralegal studies from NECC, began the journey to her current career at age 43. Previously the successful co-owner of a wireless communications construction company, she found herself hitting restart following the financial impact of the great recession, which forced her company to close after 15 years of operation.

Covarrubias-Doucette is now the owner of MCD Immigration Law, based in Salem. A practicing attorney, who grew up in both the U.S. and Mexico, she specializes in the areas of immigration and naturalization laws.

On winning the NECC Outstanding Alumni Award, Covarrubias-Doucette says “I’m flattered and deeply honored. I’m very proud of my time at NECC and what I accomplished there.”

 

MCC Establishes Partnership for Leadership and Success

In a continued commitment to providing students with valuable professional development experiences, Middlesex Community College has established a chapter with the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). As part of NSLS, students complete a five-step development program online with a curriculum that hones leadership, communication and team building among other skills.

Christian North – who is originally from Santiago, Chile and now lives in Arlington – is a mechanical engineering science transfer major who expects to graduate in 2022. In addition to attending MCC, North works full-time and is founder of MCC’s Model Aviation Club. After graduating, he plans to transfer to a four-year school to get a bachelor’s in Aeronautical, Aerospace Engineering and pursue advanced degrees. In his work, studies and club participation, North understands leadership requires compromise and finding common ground.

Additional benefits from NSLS include access to scholarship and award opportunities, a job and internship board, partner discounts and benefits, recommendation letters from admissions officers and employers, a professional communication training tool, and a network of support from across the country.

Contact Steve Rossi, Chapter Advisor at Studentengagement@middlesex.mass.edu or (781) 280- 3789 for more information.

 

The Arbors at Dracut Serves Up 250 Thanksgiving Dinners

Thanksgiving came a little early to over 250 seniors in Dracut. In lieu of sponsoring the annual Thanksgiving lunch typically held at the Dracut Council on Aging, The Arbors at Dracut hosted a “Grab ‘n Go” Thanksgiving feast for local seniors. Originally planned for approximately 150 seniors, the number of reservations soared over 200.

“We heard from so many of our seniors that because there is no big family dinner this year, they were looking forward to The Arbors meal instead. This event way surpassed anything we have done during COVID so far. We had no idea how popular it would be,” said Bethany Loveless, executive director of the Dracut Council on Aging. Members of the Dracut Sportsmen’s Club and the Dracut COA directed traffic and checked people in. Recipients were incredibly thankful for the warm meal of fresh carved turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce and a yummy dessert.

“The Arbors was founded on the belief that you treat everyone like family. This year more than ever, we have been committed to embracing and supporting our community in any way we can”, said Anne-Marie Sousa, The Arbors at Dracut marketing director.

 

New $1.5M Coastal Education Center Planned for Crane Beach

The Trustees of Reservations recently announced plans to build a Coastal Education Center at Crane Beach that solidifies the organization’s commitment to climate issues by providing visitors an immersive educational experience regarding our changing coast.

The $1.5 million to build the center comes courtesy of an anonymous donor. Pending local approvals, construction could begin as soon as September 2021 with the center open and operational by May 2022.

The new two-story building proposed at Crane Beach will be built on the site of the current refreshment stand, taking into account future flood models and sand dune migration. The upper level will be education space with an adjacent open-air classroom. The education space will feature experiential learning tools such as touch tanks, while the lower level will consist of food and retail areas so beachgoers still have access to snacks and refreshments.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Haverhill Bank Promotes Four Longtime Staffers

Haverhill Bank recently promoted four longtime staff members. James P. Henebry of Amesbury was promoted to vice president, commercial lending; Deven M. Robinson to vice president, executive administration officer and board secretary; Ana Gonzalez of Haverhill to assistant vice president, branch officer; and Marcos Melo, assistant vice president, branch officer.

Henebry has been with Haverhill Bank for nine years and previously served as assistant vice president and commercial loan officer. He is an active member of the Haverhill, Newburyport and Merrimack Valley Chambers of Commerce and serves on the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Haverhill and Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce boards of directors.

 

 

Robinson has more than 22 years of banking experience and has been employed by Haverhill Bank for 10 years. As vice president, executive administration officer, she reports directly to the bank’s president and CEO and, as board secretary, supports the bank’s board of directors, board committees and senior management.

 

 

As branch manager of the bank’s main office, Gonzalez is responsible for branch personnel and directs daily operations to provide a high level of financial services to the bank’s customers. She has been with Haverhill Bank for 18 years—currently the manager at the main office. Gonzalez, a Haverhill native, graduated from Haverhill High School before beginning her employment at Northeast Community Credit Union (now Haverhill Bank).

 

 

Melo has been with Haverhill Bank for seven years, currently as branch manager at the bank’s Bradford office. Melo has more than 20 years banking experience. He is involved in the Haverhill community, serving as coach for the city’s youth soccer and basketball programs. In addition to the promotions, new roles were given to Linda Lamb, compliance analyst, and Linda Haefner, BSA analyst.

 

Mills42 Federal Credit Union Announces New CEO

The Board of Directors of Mills42 has welcomed Derek Cronin to the position of chief executive officer of the credit union. Derek has been in the financial services industry since 2008, when he started as a teller at Eastern Bank in Swampscott. Over the ensuing 12 years, he was promoted to teller manager at Eastern Bank, then moved to St. Jean’s Credit Union in 2013, where he was assistant manager of their Revere branch. In 2015, Derek was recruited to join Beverly Municipal Federal Credit Union as their executive manager/CEO.

“I look forward to continuing the Mills42 mission of, ‘Build from here,’ by ensuring every member feels that they are not just a number, as is the common perception that customers of larger banks have. Mills42 is not your average financial institution. Our mission is to help our members and our community improve financially—not to ‘nickel and dime’ them with unnecessary fees and high loan rates. We have an excellent, dedicated team of highly skilled employees and board of directors. I am thrilled to be joining them.”

NoteWorthy – 10/18/20

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Haffner’s and Local Community Members Partner to Donate to Local Hospitals During Covid-19 Pandemic

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Haffner’s established a donation drive to collect contributions from generous community members at select gas station locations.

The “Let’s Kick COVID” campaign, which ran throughout July and August of this year, brought in nearly $10,000 in donations from Haffner’s customers. Energy North Group, parent company of Haffner’s, matched every contribution the drive received. The campaign culminated in a total of $20,000 being donated to Lawrence and Lowell General Hospitals, with each receiving $10,000.

 

GLCF Awards Latest COVID-19 Emergency Response Grants to Support Remote Learning

The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) deployed a new round of COVID-19 related grants, providing an additional $17,000 to area nonprofits. The grants were part of the ninth round of distributions from the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to assist area nonprofits serving vulnerable populations during the coronavirus pandemic.

“COVID-19 has shown that within Greater Lowell, there are significant gaps among families who have sufficient supports for remote learning, resulting in a scramble to bridge the digital divide for students ill-equipped to transition to remote learning,” said GLCF President and CEO Jay Linnehan. “GLCF has directed COVID-19 grants to nonprofits who have stepped up to help remote learners with funding for devices, headsets, staffing and other necessary supplies to support our local learners.”

The five nonprofits receiving grants in the latest round of the GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund to support remote learning are, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, Girls Inc. of Greater Lowell, Greater Lowell Family YMCA, The Wish Project and YWCA of Lowell.

 

 

Newburyport Brewing Company Awarded Manufacturer of the Year

Newburyport Brewing Company has been recognized by State Sen. Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen) as part of the Legislature’s 5th Annual Manufacturing Month Awards, honoring manufacturers across the Commonwealth.

Newburyport Brewing Company is a craft brewery dedicated to brewing high-quality craft beer products for local and regional consumers. Co-founded in 2012 as Massachusetts’ first all-can and keg craft brewery by two local Newburyport entrepreneurs, musicians, and home brewers — Chris Webb and Bill Fisher — Newburyport Brewing aims to capture the essence of the city of Newburyport’s seaside character across a line of handcrafted ales.

“Local businesses like Newburyport Brewing Company are the backbone of our economy and essential to job creation and growth,” said DiZoglio, a member of the legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus. “I was honored to nominate this great company, an exceptional example of American ingenuity, for this recognition. Now more than ever, they need our support as they work to get through this unprecedented and challenging time. I encourage folks to check out their fantastic space.”

 

Collaboration Between MV Hospice and Parkland Medical Center Provides Solace for COVID Victims

Merrimack Valley Hospice nurse Marley Beohner is dedicated to delivering specialized, compassionate comfort care to patients at the end of their life’s journey.

A lesser known but equally important aspect of Beohner’s work is the care which she extends to patients and their families, soothing anxiety while gaining an understanding of their wishes.

“Especially now in this era of COVID-19, we’re surrogates for family members who can’t be at their loved one’s bedside due to visitation restrictions,” Beohner said. “Providing families with that connection is crucial to our goal of delivering compassionate, personalized care.”

Manchester, N.H., resident Linda Barron, whose parents died from COVID-19 just 59 hours apart from one another, agrees that the collaborative effort between patients, their medical and hospice teams and family members can be transformative.

“I’m still grieving, but I take strength from knowing that the medical professionals who cared for my parents took a vested interest in who they were as people,” she said, noting that caregivers played music her parents loved from the 1950s to “give their hearts joy.”

“Because I couldn’t be there,” she added, “they listened to what I knew would make my parents comfortable. That means the world.”

 

Community Giving Tree is Bundling Up Kids for Winter

During the month of October, Community Giving Tree will be gearing up to provide local children with warm coats and clean clothing, including warm coats, socks, and cozy PJ’s for the winter. Local businesses and organizations will be collecting items during this time, we will be doing virtual drives, and, most importantly, you can help keep the doors open by supporting our Bundle Up Program with a financial donation.

If you are able to help, visit here to make a financial donation. Every $25 gift will help Community Giving Tree provide necessary essentials to bundle up one child and make sure they are ready for winter. Whether they need sweaters, socks, outerwear, or bedding, Community Giving Tree will ensure they receive the items they need to both stay warm this winter, as well as feel valued and cared for.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Touchstone Closing Announces New Partner and Adds New Roles As Market Growth Continues

Local Massachusetts-based real estate law firm Touchstone Closing announces a new partner along with three other additions to the growing team. The firm specializes in real estate closings.

Christine Bernardini, an established attorney and university professor, has joined forces as a new partner. For over 16 years, Bernardini has served the legal real estate needs of clients and Touchstone will benefit from knowledge of finance and economics, and her extensive experience representing mortgage lenders.

Lauren O’Shea has also joined as the marketing and communications director. O’Shea has over 15 years of marketing and public relations experience most recently as a vice president at Regan Communications in Boston.

NoteWorthy – 10/4/20

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Lift for a Cure: N.H. Resident Lifts 4.5 Million Pounds for Cancer

American Cancer Society Real Men Wear Pink of New Hampshire candidate Tae Kang hosted the Lift for a Cure fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 3, at 9 a.m. The 24-hour event, which was held at Kang’s Massage Chi Holistic and Fitness Center in Windham, N.H., featured Kang benching, shrugging and pressing a total of 4.5 million pounds to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

“COVID is not just threatening people’s lives; it’s also threatening cancer societies,” says Kang, who noted that donations for American Cancer Society are down 50% since COVID began. Kang says that inspiration for this event comes from watching clients and family members fight battles against cancer.  He aims to use his talent and platform to celebrate life and lead the fight for a world without cancer.

“This is all about not giving up,” says Kang. “Nothing is impossible.”

Kang kicked off the event with the bench press and broke the world record for most weight pushed in two minutes. The original record was 8,994.86 lbs. From there, Kang repeated a circuit of shoulder shrugs (315 lbs), leg pressing (525 lbs), incline chest pressing (225 lbs) and rowing (225 lbs) for the remainder of the 24 hours.

At approximately 6:27 p.m. on Saturday, Kang had lifted 2,207,550 lbs during a live stream on the Real Men Wear Pink Facebook page. This broke the record for the most weight lifted in 24 hours, according to his support team.

This Sunday morning, at 7:44 a.m, an exhausted Kang crossed the 4.5M lbs mark while surrounded by an enthusiastic group of supporters. He was, according to a witness, able to beat his goal in 22 hours  and 45 minutes, under the allotted time. The total amount lifted was 4,513,905.

Kang has raised over $15,000 so far, and donations will be accepted through Dec. 3 at PledgeIt.org.

Civil Rights Icon to Headline UMass Lowell’s Peace Scholar Program

Fania Davis, a civil rights attorney who pursued her path as a justice-seeker and healer after the murder of two of her childhood friends, will serve as UMass Lowell’s Greeley Scholar for Peace Studies.

A lawyer, writer and scholar, Davis will headline programs at UMass Lowell to cap a public event series that will examine issues raised by the Black Lives Matter movement.

Davis joins an esteemed list of humanitarians – including Nobel Peace Prize recipients Leymah Gbowee and Tawakkol Karman — as a UMass Lowell Greeley Scholar for Peace Studies. She will be in virtual residence at the university in April, when she will lead online programs for the campus and community.

 

Massachusetts Awarded ‘Future of Manufacturing’ Grant from National Science Foundation

The National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a new Future of Manufacturing grant of $499,955 awarded to a collaboration of Massachusetts organizations, which will help the region’s manufacturers pivot their operations to address emerging crises.

The project, called Rapid Execution for Scaling Production Of Needed Designs or RESPOND, will create a diverse network of transdisciplinary stakeholders across academia and state government that will support and sustain critical “super nodes” that will boost communication between organizations, help accelerate product development and drive increased manufacturing capacity to address crises like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Announced on National Manufacturing Day, the grant will be led by UMass Lowell in collaboration with Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech).

GLCF Annual Celebrate Giving Event Highlights Strong Community Connection During Pandemic

On Oct. 1, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation hosted its annual Celebrate Giving event virtually.

The event featured First Lady of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Lauren Schadt Baker, co-founder of the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund, as its keynote speaker and was hosted by Christa Brown, founder of Free Soil Arts Collective.

Throughout the spring and early summer, Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund provided support for populations most impacted by COVID-19 such as essential frontline workers, seniors, children and youth, the food insecure, and vulnerable populations including the homeless, immigrants, undocumented, and those with disabilities.

With funding from the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund, GLCF was able to distribute 70 grants to 48 Greater Lowell nonprofits totaling $2,161,030.

UMass Lowell Students RAMP Up for Success

New UMass Lowell students interested in studying engineering got a head start this summer through a program specifically designed for them.

UMass Lowell’s Research, Academics and Mentoring Pathways (RAMP) Program offers incoming first-year and transfer students the chance to start their coursework early, collaborate on research projects and get a sense of what the engineering field — and college life — is like.

Held virtually this year for six weeks in July and August, the program helped 25 students to learn about data analytics and the Internet of Things, then work in teams to build Wi-Fi connected devices. Assisting them along the way were professionals from the region’s leading technology and aerospace companies and UMass Lowell student mentors.

For its first two years, the program enrolled only women. This summer, RAMP included a half-dozen men, expanding the program to underrepresented students in engineering of both genders and to those who expressed interest in being part of the college’s effort to add to the diversity of the student population.

Promise Program Benefits Recent Haverhill and Lawrence High School Grads

 

Eighteen recent Haverhill and Lawrence High School graduates, who are enrolled at Northern Essex Community College this fall, will earn their associate degrees for free, thanks to the Promise Program.

The program is open to Haverhill and Lawrence students who take Northern Essex Early College courses while in high school and decide to pursue an associate degree at Northern Essex after their high school graduation. All costs are covered including books and a laptop.

Those interested in learning more about how they can support the program and make a meaningful impact on students, can contact Dolan-Wilson at adolanwilson@necc.mass.edu or (978) 556-3624.

Greenbelt’s Bailey Reservation in Haverhill is Open

Greenbelt, Essex County’s Land Trust, is welcoming visitors to the 21- acre Bailey Reservation in Haverhill. Open to the public free of charge, this beautiful property offers an easy, quarter-mile trail loop through woodlands and along the shore of Chadwick Pond. It’s an ideal spot for families of all ages to explore, with plenty of wildlife to observe!

Donated in 2017, this property was the second gift from Janis Bailey and her late husband Perley of Haverhill, whose desire it was to see all of the family’s land protected.

Now through Oct. 22, kids and parents can enjoy a StoryWalk along the trail, featuring Kate Messner’s children’s book “Over and Under the Pond!”

UMass Lowell Named a Top Sierra Club ‘Cool School’

UMass Lowell is one the “coolest” schools in North America, according to Sierra magazine’s 14th annual ranking of eco-friendly colleges and universities.

UMass Lowell ranks 16 on the 2020 Cool Schools list of “green” institutions — cracking the top 20 for its highest placement ever. Last year, the university came in at 28, a jump from 165 in 2016.

Last year, UMass Lowell became the highest-rated STARS campus in Massachusetts — and one of the top 10 in the country — with a STARS Gold score of 77.56. That helped give UMass Lowell a Cool Schools score of 80.04 from the Sierra Club this year.

Established in 2015, UMass Lowell’s Office of Sustainability serves as a focal point for the university’s commitment to the environment, providing resources and support for campus operations, education, research, student engagement and community partnerships.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

MCC Nursing Alumna Returns 19 Years Later as Professor

Kelliann Bazemore was inspired to pursue a career in nursing after a personal experience at Lowell General Hospital (LGH). With a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology from UMass Boston already in place, she started the nursing program at Middlesex Community College (MCC) in 2000. Nineteen years later, Bazemore returned to Middlesex to work as a professor of nursing.

Bazemore teaches the pediatrics section of MCC’s program. Before COVID-19, she guided her students through clinicals at LGH. For now, students are able to practice with a simulation lab and in online courses.

The ability to be able to offer this technology is essential for students to gain the experience they need. Bazemore has witnessed how technology and research has shifted how nurses work. Now that everything they do is grounded in evidence-based research, she believes they are training students to become “nurse scientists.”

Nursing is always changing, according to Bazemore, so she believes nurses never stop learning and being a student. MCC’s program ensures students are prepared for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and “to provide safe, holistic care for their patients.”

Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union Staff Announcements

Mark S. Cochran, president and chief executive officer of Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, together with the Executive Team, announced the recent promotions of four employees and two additions to the Jeanne D’Arc team.

Emily Farnham to vice president, electronic services: Farnham began her career at Jeanne D’Arc in 2004 and has been intricately involved over the last 16 years working to grow the Credit Union in Member and Electronic Services. She recently held the role of assistant vice president, until promoted to her new role as vice president of electronic services.

Nisa Fagundes to assistant treasurer, mortgage operations: Fagundes has worked in mortgage lending for more than 25 years. She joined the Jeanne D’Arc team in 2005 as a senior real estate loan underwriter. In 2015, she was promoted to mortgage operations supervisor. Now with her most recent promotion to assistant treasurer, mortgage operations, she will be overseeing staff and managing the day-to-day activities of the mortgage department.

Christine Alward to assistant treasurer, member experience officer: A Jeanne D’Arc veteran of 19 years, Alward has experience in many areas of the Credit Union. In her most recent role as the applications support analyst, Alward specialized in core processing, digital platform and account solutions.

Katie Allard to assistant vice president, system applications: With well over 20 years of Credit Union experience, Allard has been a steady part of the Jeanne D’Arc team since 1993 when she started as a teller. Most notable is her contribution in the creation and implementation of online and mobile banking. In her new role, Allard will continue to lead all essential technology application updates, including data reporting and project management.

Patrick Coen named vice president, technology operations: Patrick Coen, a seasoned tech professional, brings to Jeanne D’Arc his diverse background in IT corporate policy development, process optimization, and operational planning and execution. With his strong background in technology, Coen has been crucial in enhancing Jeanne D’Arc’s most critical system updates and maintenance.

Fady Sidhom joined as assistant treasurer, outbound contact manager: Sidhom joined Jeanne D’Arc in March 2020, entering the Credit Union with years of experience in banking and management, acquiring multiple banking awards along the way. In his new role, Sidhom has been tasked with the oversight of the outbound contact and digital contact teams in the member contact center.

NoteWorthy – 9/20/20

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AROUND THE VALLEY

MRT Welcomes Free Soil Arts Collective As First Company in Residence

After a yearlong collaboration, Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT) and Free Soil Arts Collective, Lowell’s only Black-owned theater company, will formalize their partnership this season as Free Soil becomes MRT’s first official Company in Residence.

Courtney Sale, the MTR’s artistic director, said, “I am beyond excited to have founder Christa Brown and Free Soil partner with us in this bold endeavor. We have so much to learn from their artistry and engagement. The winner in this ‘coming together’ is the people of the greater Lowell region. What folks will feel is a solidarity of arts leaders focused on strikingly original work, an everlasting focus on equity and generous care for our beloved community.”

Christa Brown, founder and executive director of the Free Soil Arts Collective, will join the MRT artistic staff and participate in season planning and casting, as well as equity and anti-racist work within the nonprofit organization.

Free Soil operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation. The company presented the original play “Hair Tales: Stories of Black Hair-i-Tage” at MRT last summer.

 

Kayaking Tour Aims to Change Perceptions of the Merrimack

Dougan Sherwood, president of the Haverhill Chamber with the trip’s participants.

 

 

 

 

By Tyler McMillan

On Sept. 17, the Merrimack River Watershed Council hosted “Learn About The River — On The River,” an event which gave ecologists, city council members, and the general public a chance to kayak along the Merrimack River and alongside Haverhill’s downtown.

President of the Haverhill Chamber and Merrimack River Watershed board member Dougan Sherwood organized the outing. “I believe the river is one of the greatest untapped resources in the city of Haverhill,” says Sherwood, “If we embrace initiatives that clean and aid the river, the entire city benefits with more opportunities for both businesses and general recreation.”

Plum Island Kayak, a business operated in Newburyport and Haverhill, provided kayaks for the participants. According to owner Ken Taylor, the demand for outdoor activities is high. “We had our best year in Newburyport,” he notes. “The business model shifted with fewer guided tours, but rentals were strong. We had an extremely quiet season in Haverhill through.”

The underutilization of the Merrimack River in Haverhill could be explained by problems that still plague the river as a whole. Prassede Vella, a scientist working for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Massachusetts National Estuary Partnership (MASSBAYS), pointed to combined sewage overflows and storm water as two sources that negatively impact the river. She notes, “Due to the high level of urbanization in the area, we see oil and other contaminants run into the river. Also, during periods of heavy rain, we see the wastewater tanks run over their 18-million-gallon limit which has negative repercussions for the river.” These issues could potentially spur negative perceptions that prevent residents from participating in recreational activities.

“We plan on hosting many more activities and events to promote the river,” Sherwood says. “Ultimately, one important piece is going to be changing the negative perceptions that are still lingering from the 1970s.” Back then, the river had a notorious reputation for its high levels of pollution. “That is not to say the river is pristine,” Sherwood continues, “There is a lot of work to be done.”

To learn more about the Merrimack River Watershed Council, visit their website here. If you would like to enjoy a kayak expedition of your own, head over to the Plum Island Kayak’s website for more information.

 

MCC Awarded Approval to Offer Online Programs Nationwide

Middlesex Community College has received approval from the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) to offer its online programs to students across the country.

NC-SARA is an agreement in 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands that establishes quality standards for college-level distance programs. Over 2,100 colleges and universities participate in the initiative nationwide.

MCC’s background in online education helped the college successfully transition spring 2020 coursework and student services to remote, virtual and limited contact systems. In fall of 2020, 95% of courses were moved online without compromising quality.

 

Lowell High School Class of 1969 Adds $10K to Scholarship to Honor 50th Anniversary

The Lowell High School Class of 1969 announced that it had raised $10,000 for its LHS Class of 1969 Scholarship Fund bringing their scholarship total to nearly $18,000. Administered by the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, this scholarship fundraiser was kicked off in 2019 to honor the 50th anniversary of the Class of 1969.

The LHS Class of 1969 Scholarship Fund, was opened in 2005 and now awards $750 annually to a student who demonstrates financial need, will attend UMass or a Middlesex Community College and have been involved in community service. Additional donations can be made online at GLCFoundation.org/Donate. 

 

MRT Celebrates New Playwright Commissions, New Reading Series

MRT will celebrate the commissioning of two of the country’s most adventuresome playwrights, Trista Baldwin and Vichet Chum, with the launch of a new reading series, MRT’s First Look. The series will kick off Sept. 24 with a new adaptation of the classic thriller “Gaslight” by Steven Dietz.

The initial three readings will be free and presented over Zoom. The readings will also be available on the MRT website for three additional days after the live Zoom reading. An RSVP is required via the show’s webpage at MRT.org/FirstLook. Those who RSVP will be emailed the access information for Zoom the day before the reading.

One of the great film noirs, “Gaslight” tells the story of a cruel, cold-hearted husband who employs all sorts of sinister tricks to manipulate his wife into believing she is going insane. The play gave rise to the term “gaslighting,” which means to psychologically abuse victims with the intent of making them doubt their own memories and perceptions.

 

Granite United Way Kicks Off Smart Start Cereal Campaign

Food insecurity is a critical need for children across the country, with many families utilizing school-based breakfast and lunch programs to ensure that their children have access to at least two meals each day. This challenge is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, with waves of uncertainty around school reopening and many more families struggling to put food on their tables on a daily basis.

In place of Granite United Way’s traditional Day of Caring, they have launched the Smart Start Cereal Campaign which empowers our communities to support children and families by donating cereal and other non-perishable breakfast items. In partnership with local food shelves, this safety-conscious engagement opportunity will help students start each day with the fuel they need to learn and grow.

The Smart Start Cereal Campaign will run from Sept. 16 through Oct.16. Companies can host a cereal drive at their location or text GUWFEEDS to 41444 to donate via the Smart Start Text-to-Give Campaign for a safe, no-touch option. Click here for more information.

 

Researchers to Study Extreme Weather in the Northeast

As wildfires continue to ravage the West Coast, UMass Lowell researchers analyzing the reasons behind hot and dry conditions hope their work will offer greater understanding of extreme weather events across the country.

UMass Lowell Professor Mathew Barlow and Assistant Professor Christopher Skinner are examining why heat waves and droughts occur in the U.S. Northeast, along with the relationship between the two weather phenomena. The faculty members teach in the university’s Department of Environmental, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and conduct research in its Climate System Dynamics Group, which studies how disturbances in the environment influence climate and weather events.

Funded by a $478,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the researchers’ project is the first of its type to be conducted in the Northeast.

 

National Retailer Arhaus Bringing Handcrafted Furnishings to 15,000-Square Foot Space at Tuscan Village 

Tuscan Village recently announced the addition of Arhaus, an industry-leading retailer specializing in handcrafted home furnishing, to its growing list of partners. Arhaus will open a 15,000-square-foot home furnishings collection — its first in New Hampshire — at Tuscan Village in spring 2021.

Founded in 1986, Arhaus operates over 70 locations across the country. The Ohio-based company is known for its one-of-a-kind artisan crafted home furnishings and commitment to using sustainably sourced, recycled and reclaimed materials whenever possible. Arhaus will be moving into a prime location at the front door of Tuscan Village, bringing its newest, architecturally-unique prototype to Salem, N.H.

For more information on Tuscan Village, including a video tour of the full development and renderings of the project, visit TuscanVillageSalem.com.

 

Entrepreneurs to Pitch New Health-Care Innovations in Virtual Event

The 2020 M2D2 $200K Challenge will feature 15 finalists pitching new ideas including GPS-guided system to locate and excise tumors, medication to regenerate damaged heart muscle, technology for synthetic cartilage implants for damaged joints and more.

More than 250 entrepreneurs from around the world entered the competition last spring. Inventors, venture capitalists and global leaders in business, industry and government will participate in the event, held virtually for the first time. Jennifer Griffin, vice president of industry strategy and investments for the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, will be the program’s keynote speaker.

The competition will take place on Thursday, Sept. 17 at 5 p.m., and winners will be announced on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. Both events will be held online. Free registration and information is available here.

 

Care Dimensions HomeMD Expands Service Area

The Care Dimensions HomeMD program, which provides personalized, in-home primary care service for patients 65 years and older who have trouble leaving their homes, has doubled its service area to cover 45 communities north of Boston. New patients are being accepted to the practice and seen at home by a physician or nurse practitioner for all primary care needs. HomeMD is part of Care Dimensions’ continuum of home care services, but patients do not have to be on its palliative care or hospice services.

Care Dimensions HomeMD is particularly appropriate for patients who may be physically fragile, have trouble leaving their homes due to physical issues or memory loss, or for those who are managing complex chronic conditions such as diabetes, COPD, stroke or heart failure. Clinicians follow all COVID-19 safety precautions and use appropriate personal protective equipment. Led by physician Mark Messenger and nurse practitioners Kristin Chouinard and Patricia McCarthy, the team has extensive experience caring for the health care needs of a rapidly growing elder population.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Enterprise Bank Appoints Two New Directors

Enterprise Bank recently announced the appointment of Anita Worden and Nickolas Stavropoulos to their board of directors. Both individuals were also appointed to the board of directors of Enterprise Bank’s holding company, Enterprise Bancorp, Inc.

Anita Worden previously served as the co-founder, chief executive officer and director of Yaskawa Solectria Solar. Worden is a highly skilled senior executive, having founded multiple startups in high technology companies, with a specific focus on renewable energy and electric vehicle technology companies. She has also served the Greater Lawrence community concentrating on STEM education, ESL and food security.

 

 

Nickolas Stavropoulos previously served as president and chief operating officer of San Francisco-based Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Before that, he was executive vice president and chief operating officer for National Grid USA, a multinational electricity and gas utility. Prior to that role, Stavropoulos was president of KeySpan Energy Delivery, where he led that company’s gas distribution group, field operations and sales and marketing teams.

 


Home Health Foundation Honors David Nesbitt of Andover

Like many volunteers at Home Health Foundation, David Nesbitt of Andover began donating his time and talent in an effort to give back. He joined its board in 2005, grateful for the compassionate care provided to his wife, Jane, by Merrimack Valley Hospice — one of the organization’s member agencies — as well as the support he and his family received after she succumbed to her battle with cancer in 2004.

Since he announced his retirement effective September 9, 2020, Home Health Foundation President and CEO Karen Gomes said the entire leadership team has paid tribute to Nesbitt for his numerous professional accomplishments while serving the board in a variety of capacities.

“Throughout his tenure, Dave has been highly regarded and admired for his leadership, honesty and willingness to teach, share and learn,” Gomes said. “Countless patients and families, as well as the nonprofit agencies of Home Health Foundation, have immensely benefited from his expertise and tireless dedication. While we wish him the very best on his well-deserved retirement, his invaluable advice and contributions will be sorely missed.”

 

Governor Baker Appoints Methuen Business Leader Chair of NECC Board of Trustees

Jennifer Borislow, founding principal of Borislow Insurance of Methuen, was recently named chairwoman to the Northern Essex Community College Board of Trustees by Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker.

Borislow, a lifelong resident of Methuen, is a nationally recognized expert, author, speaker and thought leader on employee benefits, insurance and related business strategies. She is the chief executive officer and strategic coach of the organization. For more than 38 years, she has helped business owners, executives, and professionals develop a clear, strategic vision for their organizations that leverages employee benefits, risk management and more. Her specialty is working with educational organizations.

As chair, Borislow’s priorities will include strategic planning for 2021-2024, a review of the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) accreditation process, board self-assessment and meeting with each trustee and cabinet member to learn more about their role and commitment to the college.

 

Home Health Foundation Awards Scholarship to Hospice Nurse Melanie Correia

Home Health Foundation, a Lawrence-based nonprofit organization providing essential home health and hospice care in all the places patients call home, has selected Melanie Correia as the 2020 Mary Ellen Tramondozzi Scholarship recipient. Tramondozzi served as a role model and mentor to many fellow nurses, embodying the values and essence of nursing until her untimely death in April 2002.

A resident of Haverhill, Correia was inspired to pursue a second career in nursing after admiring the compassionate care received by her father following his diagnosis with brain cancer. John Willis spent nearly three weeks at High Pointe House in Haverhill, a home-like alternative to hospitalization with specialized end-of-life care where Correia has worked for the past two years.

NoteWorthy – 8/30/20

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AROUND THE VALLEY

Heart & Sole Virtual Walk-A-Thon Benefiting Home Health Foundation

As part of her job in the philanthropy department of Merrimack Valley Hospice, Kelly Lepore frequently hears stories from grateful families about the expert, compassionate care their loved ones receive at the end of their life’s journey.

To give back, Lepore is participating in the Heart & Sole Virtual Walk-A-Thon benefiting the agencies of Home Health Foundation, including Merrimack Valley Hospice. Participants may join the virtual walk on the official event day of Saturday, Sept. 12, or walk one or more days anytime during the month of September while registered as an individual or team. The total fundraising goal is $70,000 to continue providing a comprehensive continuum of care and services to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay.

To view the video on Lepore’s fundraising page, visit here. To learn more and register for the Heart & Sole Virtual Walk-A-Thon, visit here.

Methuen High School Receives National Recognition from Special Olympics 

Special Olympics Massachusetts announced that Methuen High School, a Special Olympics Unified Champion School, is receiving national banner recognition for its efforts to provide inclusive sports and activities for students with and without disabilities. Methuen High School is receiving this honor as a result of meeting national standards of excellence in the areas of inclusion, advocacy and respect. An award presentation will take place on a date to be determined.

Methuen High School will be amongst 15 schools to receive this distinction in Massachusetts this year, joining 26 schools previously recognized for a total of 41 National Banner Unified Champion Schools in the state. They will be presented with a banner to hang in their school and be included on a list of other schools around the country who have achieved this distinguished status.

 

Maudslay Arts Center Facing Financial Crunch

Maudslay Arts Center (MAC) is best known for its summer concert series, but it is also a popular setting for special events such as weddings, corporate functions, educational activities, reunions and more. This year those had to be cancelled, and all deposits were returned. As a result, MAC’s income from ticket sales and events vanished. If you are able to support Maudslay Arts Center in this time of crisis, please visit  www.maudslayartscenter.org to make a gift or write a letter of support. All 2020 gift certificates will be honored during the 2021 season.

HDSA Tewksbury Team Hope Walk Goes Virtual

The Huntington’s Disease Society of America‘s (HDSA) Massachusetts & Rhode Island Chapter will be hosting the Tewksbury Virtual Team Hope Walk on Saturday, September 12. Team Hope is HDSA’s largest national grassroots fundraising event. Thousands of families, friends, co-workers, neighbors and communities walk together each year to support HDSA’s fight to improve the lives of people affected by Huntington’s disease (HD) and their families.

A virtual walk is a real walk, but on your terms: You get to choose your own course, you can walk in your driveway, neighborhood, in your house and even on treadmill.

Greater Lowell Community Foundation Virtual 2020 Celebrate Giving Event

On Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) will host its annual Celebrate Giving event. This year’s virtual event will highlight the community connection of local donors and nonprofit organizations who are committed to making a positive impact in Greater Lowell.

This year’s keynote speaker is First Lady of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Lauren Schadt Baker, co-founder of the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund. The Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund supported those across the state most impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis, focusing on essential frontline workers and vulnerable populations including the homeless, immigrant populations, people with disabilities and those facing food insecurity. The Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund has distributed 70 grants to 48 Greater Lowell nonprofits totaling $2,161,030 through GLCF.

Windrush Farm Reopens for Therapeutic Riding Programs in September

Windrush Farm announced that it will be offering therapeutic riding, hippotherapy and unmounted programs again, starting the week beginning Sept. 21.

Windrush Farm has been offering therapeutic riding and unmounted programs since 1964, the farm has twenty therapy horses, an indoor and outdoor arena and miles of trails to explore. Click here for more info.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union Welcomes New Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer

Mark S. Cochran, president and chief executive officer of Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, welcomed Jeffrey Turcotte as vice president, commercial loan officer. Turcotte joins Jeanne D’Arc from Workers Credit Union in Fitchburg, where he served as vice president for the past five years. He has a combined 23 years of experience in the banking industry.

Residing in Leominster, Massachusetts, Turcotte is married and has two grown children. He holds a BS and an MBA in Business Management from Fitchburg State University. Additionally, Turcotte is the former board president of the Middlesex West Chamber of Commerce.

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