Merrimack Valley Magazine

Horseshoe Grille Sold After Over 30 Years of Ownership

September 7, 2021 by Kristin Cole

Last week, Pat and Kathi Lee announced that they have sold Horseshoe Grille, a landmark eatery located in North Reading. In a Facebook post via the Horseshoe Grille page, the former owners wrote: “First and foremost, we want to thank all our current and past employees who have helped make the Horseshoe what it is today. You are family to us and we will miss you all more than you know. To our valued customers, thank you for your continued support over the past 95 years. The Horseshoe will still remain as the Horseshoe, including the staff. The new owners are three outstanding gentlemen from Reading.”

The Horseshoe has evolved since its beginnings in 1926 as an apple cider stand. In 1955, the building was purchased by Pat Lee Sr. and his wife, Veronica, who built the “old” Horseshoe Lounge. Years later, Pat Lee Jr. and his wife, Kathi, took over the family business and helped transform it into the “polished casual” restaurant that remains popular today.

Be sure to check out our Generations profile on the history of the Horseshoe Grille, here.

NoteWorthy – 8/29/21

August 29, 2021 by Kristin Cole

AROUND THE VALLEY

EforAll Celebrates Winners of Foodie Venture Pitch Contest

The EforAll Lowell team hosted their first in person event, the “Foodie Venture Pitch Contest” on Aug. 11 at the UML Innovation Hub. During the contest, pre-selected local entrepreneurs presented their ideas in a two-and-a-half-minute pitch to a panel of judges, shared their food business concepts and offered guests samples of foods, drinks and treats.

The judges awarded three cash prizes: $1,000 for the grand prize winner, $750 for second place, and $500 for third place. The audience also participated by voting for fan favorite who won $500. The grand prize went to Whitney Wilson of Whitney’s Kitchen. Taking second place is Yesenia Melo of Jessy’s Clean Meals, and the third place winner was Sandra Okiror of Wham’s Cafe. Salina Anderson of Sally J’s Cupcakes took home the fan favorite prize.

MVM recently profiled Yesenia Melo of Jessy’s Clean Meals. Click here to check out our feature story about this unique initiative.

RTK in Lawrence Gets Complete Makeover to Support Food Entrepreneurs

The Lawrence Partnership has announced a new approach to the Revolving Test Kitchen (RTK) that will expand the number of businesses that can take advantage of its shared commercial kitchen and support services.

The newly renovated space, which opened this month, is located at the Northern Essex Community College’s (NECC) Lawrence campus. Featuring shared culinary workspaces with multiple prep and cook spaces with dry and cold storage, RTK will accommodate a range of food businesses, including food trucks, catering companies, small batch manufacturers and food delivery companies, while offering its members access to culinary and business experts in the food industry.

“Our mission is to provide programming and strategies that create an inclusive, equitable approach to economic development that serves the entire community in Lawrence,” said George Ramirez, executive director of The Lawrence Partnership.

RTK will be open for food production from 4am to midnight, with 24-hour access for its members. Space is booked on a first-come, first-served policy.

UML to test COVID-19 Diagnostic Methods; Requires All Employees to be Vaccinated

UMass Lowell Nursing Associate Professor Ainat Koren, who will be leading the project.

UMass Lowell (UML) researchers and students will help evaluate the effectiveness of new, rapid methods to diagnose COVID-19 through a program overseen by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The NIH awarded $935,000 to UML’s Solomont School of Nursing for the project as part of the federal agency’s Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) initiative, created last year to help private industries develop affordable and accurate COVID-19 screening tests that can be administered and analyzed within minutes at home and at doctors’ offices, clinics, pharmacies, hospitals, and community testing sites.

AT UML, nursing faculty and students will oversee RADx clinical trials that assess the viability of new products to help diagnose COVID-19 that are being developed by established and startup medical device and biotech companies. Products to be evaluated could be anything from more comfortable nasal swabs to the machines that analyze samples. The initiative will also involve community partners that can offer COVID-19 testing sites for the study.

The trials will be conducted in partnership with a medical group that offers drive-through testing, UML’s own testing clinic and possibly mass testing events.

UML also announced that all employees working on campus will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or be approved for a medical or religious exemption, following agreements finalized in the last week with its unions.

The university informed non-union and part-time employees Aug. 12, as well as contractors and vendors who work on campus, that they must be fully vaccinated. A survey of all employees conducted the first week of August indicated that more than 95% of employees are or will be fully vaccinated before the semester begins.

Enterprise Bank Celebrates Opening of 26th Branch

On Thursday morning members of Enterprise Bank’s senior leadership team, along with community and civic leaders, celebrated the opening of the bank’s newest branch located at 247 Chickering Road (RT 125) in North Andover, Mass. Led by Branch Relationship Manager Therese Leone of Methuen, the branch offers a full suite of banking services, including commercial lending.

NECC’s Life Long Studies Program is Back

Northern Essex Community College’s (NECC) Life Long Studies Program, which is open to adults 18 or older will return this fall, after a year-long hiatus due to COVID-19. The program is especially popular with seniors.

Back by popular demand are “Let’s Talk Current Events,” led by Frank Baggs, and “Tai Chi,” taught by octogenarian Allen Drelick, a certified Arthritis Foundation Tai Chi instructor, who has been teaching at NECC for six years.

New this fall are “The Journals of Lewis and Clark” and “Creative Poetry Writing,” taught by Mary-Ellen Morris, and “Water Collage/Three Dimensional Paper” and “Book-in-a-Box,” led by artist Sandra Golbert.

NECC history Professor Richard Padova is teaching “The History of Catholic Worship in Lawrence, Mass.” which will explore Catholic churches in the city over the years, starting with Immaculate Conception, which was the first Catholic Church in Lawrence.

Life Long Studies Programs will be taught in a classroom this fall, and everyone will be required to wear masks and socially distance. Programs meet once a week during the day and last for the entire semester or half the semester.

Horseshoe Grille Sold after Over 30 Years of Ownership

Last week, Pat and Kathi Lee announced that they have sold Horseshoe Grille. In a Facebook post via the Horseshoe Grille page, the former owners wrote: “First and foremost, we want to thank all our current and past employees who have helped make the Horseshoe what it is today. You are family to us and we will miss you all more than you know. To our valued customers, thank you for your continued support over the past 95 years. The Horseshoe will still remain as the Horseshoe, including the staff. The new owners are three outstanding gentlemen from Reading.”

Be sure to check out our Generations profile on the history of the Horseshoe Grille, here.

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Creative Haverhill Director Selected for LEADS Cohort

Erin Padilla, director of Creative Haverhill, has been selected to serve in the Merrimack Valley’s final LEADS 3.0 cohort, a program that expands leadership capacity, connectivity and social capital in gateway cities. Padilla has spent the past eight years working in arts administration for nonprofit community organizations, including Creative Haverhill, of which Padilla is the single staff member. She has previously worked as an arts education coordinator, exhibition curator, a programs and festivals curator, and an arts administrator. The Oregon native moved to Haverhill in 2017 and enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephew, taking hikes with her dog, whiskey and wine tasting with friends, and traveling with friends and family.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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 until Sept. 1. For details, click here.

Bethany Communities’ Celebration of Innovation and Integration

Support Bethany Communities’ development of Merrimack Place, an extension of the Merrivista campus, by attending the Celebration of Innovation and Integration on Thursday, Sept. 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Bradford Country Club. The event will include dinner, raffles and a live performance by local band Three Part. Visit here to reserve your spot at the event.

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.

Save Our River Festival

Join the Merrimack River Watershed Council for the first ever Save Our River Festival at the Newburyport Elks Lodge on Sept. 18. This family-friendly event will feature a giant cornhole tournament, barbecue food, a cash bar, live music, an art show, games and more. Click here to RSVP.

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, Sept. 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.

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.

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.

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.

PoF 2021 Spread the Joy Luncheon

Join the Power of Flowers Project for their annual Spread the Joy Luncheon on Wednesday, Oct. 6 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Four Oaks Country Club. The event includes a basket and gift card raffle, a silent auction, a wine pull, and a golden ticket drawing to win a $500 Visa gift card. All proceeds to benefit the Power of Flowers Project, a non-profit organization assisting seniors, veterans and those living in care communities. For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

E for All Lowell’s Winter Accelerator Program

Looking to launch a business but in need of some guidance? Join E for All’s Winter 2022 Accelerator Cohort. The one-year program provides immersive business training, mentorship and access to an extended professional network. Online classes begin Nov. 30, and applications are due on Oct. 14. Visit here to learn more.

NILP 40th Anniversary Gala

Join the NILP as they celebrate 40 years of helping people with disabilities reach their independent living goals. The NILP’s annual gala — which features a silent auction, raffles, dinner and dancing — will take place on Saturday, Oct. 23, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Blue Ocean Event Center. Click here to purchase tickets.

YWCA 4th Annual Fall Fest with a Twist

Join the Northeastern Mass. YWCA for the 4th Annual Fall Fest with a Twist. The evening of wine tasting, music and raffles will take place at the North Andover Country Club on Wednesday, Oct. 27, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 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.

Support Locally Owned Businesses During the Crisis – Updated 5/27/20

May 18, 2020 by Glenn Prezzano

The hopeful news of the day is that it’s unlikely the nation will face the worst-case scenario projection for the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to the unprecedented and decisive actions taken by our civic and public health leaders and the overwhelming cooperation of the American people and businesses large and small to adhere to the established precautionary guidelines.

Yet it remains imperative that we do everything possible to support our locally owned businesses, so here’s a list of special offers and services from our marketing partners. Please bookmark this page as information is being updated constantly.

Acorn Home & Design [Added May 27, 2020 at 4:07 p.m.] We are delighted to announce that Acorn is now open by appointment! Design consults, retail therapy in our shop, and making selections in our design center are all now available by appointment. Staff and customers are required to wear masks and gloves. Our store and design center will be disinfected regularly. In-house visits for interior design consults and measures will resume June 9. Additionally, we will continue offering curbside pickup and local free delivery for any gifts, purchases or samples from our storefront or design center.

AcornDesignCenter.com
(978) 273-9717

Andover Classic Wines [Updated March 23, 2o2o at 2:22 p.m.]
Andover Classic Wines is open with adjusted hours. New hours are 9 a.m to 8 p.m weekly and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Bottle and can recycling has been temporarily closed. It is requested that customers practice social distancing while in the store and maintain a six-foot distance from each other. For curbside pickup, place your order online or phone it in and they will call to confirm when it’s ready. Local delivery remains free according to the guidelines on their website, and they are now offering expanded delivery service. Please contact info@andoverclassicwines.com or visit our website at AndoverClassicWines.com.

(978) 470-0500

Angelina’s Italian Restaurant
Angelina’s is open from 2 to 8 p.m. for takeout or delivery. Click here for the full takeout menu. Please note that you are now able to purchase sandwiches all day, and lasagna has been added to the takeout menu.

AngelinasTewksbury.com
(978) 319-9573

Athenian Corner
Order takeout by calling (978) 458-7052 or ordering online here. Order delivery using doordash.com or ubereats.com. New hours for the time being: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

AthenianCorner.com
(978) 458-7052

Brew’d Awakening
Takeout available by calling (978) 454-2739 or order delivery via Uber Eats. Gift card purchases will be available online and we will update that info as soon as it is available.

BrewdAwakening.com
(978) 454-2739

Burtons Grill & Bar
As of March 17, in areas where sit-in dining has been prohibited, our stores will begin takeout-only operations with curbside pickup for the convenience of our guests. In addition, all locations will limit operating hours from noon to 7 p.m. daily. Find the closest location to you and place your order here.

BurtonsGrill.com

Cafe Azteca [ Updated Thursday, April 16, 2020 at 8:38 a.m. ]

Cafe Azteca in Lawrence is reopening starting April 16th, 2020. Hours will be Thursday – Saturday, 1:oo – 7:00 p.m. for takeout. Call Mary at (978) 689-7393 to see what’s on the menu and pickup your order curbside.

Cafe-Azteca.com

Chic Consignment
While our physical store is closed while everything is going on, we will be working to stay connected and give our customers and followers multiple ways to continue to support us from the comforts of their own homes. We will be going live on both Instagram and Facebook multiple times a week. We’ll also be offering curbside pickup or free delivery within a 20 mile radius. We will be adding new items to our website daily, offering free shipping on all online orders. We have gift cards available for purchase on our website that may be redeemed in-store when we reopen.

ChicConsignment.com
(978) 474-1755

GM Roth Design & Remodeling [Updated May 4, 2o2o at 11:14 a.m.]
As a residential remodeling contractor, G.M. Roth prioritizes client and employee safety above all else. So to keep business running while limiting the time spent in people’s homes, we are offering 10% off of any exterior project (excluding additions). This includes decks, porches, porticos, siding, roofing, doors, and windows. This offer is good for projects that sell by August 1.

Our goal is to continue delivering the best service we can provide in the safest, most effective way. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work through this together.

GMRoth.com
(603) 880-3761

Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce Creates New Program: #HaverhillLocal [Updated April 8, 2020 at 5:17 p.m.]

The COVID-19 crisis is wreaking havoc on Main Street small businesses across the United States.

The hardest hit are local face-to-face Main Street services — restaurants, bars, coffee shops, barbershops, hair salons, auto repair shops, dry cleaners and others that are living on the brink. These entities, usually sole proprietorships or businesses with fewer than 25, 10 or even 5 employees are running out of cash or already broke.

The Greater Haverhill Chamber has set up a new fund to drive desperately needed cash into these local mom and pops. This fund will allow the Chamber to offset any purchases from participating businesses with a 25% discount. Please consider giving – then go shopping!

Check out participating businesses here: Haverhillchamber.com

Heritage Farm Ice Cream & Restaurant
Take out is available by calling (978) 459-0802 for pickup or door dash for delivery. The take-out window is also open for ice cream orders.

HeritageFarmIceCream.com
(978) 459-0802

Horseshoe Grille
Horseshoe Grille is offering delivery services to Andover, North Reading and Reading 7 days a week, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Curbside pickup is always available!

HorseshoeGrille.com
(978) 664-3591

Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
Jocelyn’s will continue to serve for takeout and dining as long as we are healthy and produce is available. We’ve extended our delivery radius an extra 10 miles and will deliver to all local hospitals and businesses. We have also amplified our handling and sanitization procedures. Stay safe!

JocelynsRestaurant.com
(603) 870-0045

Joe Fish
Joe Fish is offering takeout and free delivery. Fifty percent of all gift card sales will go directly to staff to help eliminate some of the burden they will face in the coming weeks. Order gift cards here.

Lenzi’s
They are in the process of setting up a tent in front of Lenzi’s for pickup only. Corned beef and cabbage dinners will be available beginning Tuesday while supplies last. Chicken pot pies will be available with sides for pickup. Stay tuned for more details, we’ll post them asap! Call (978) 458-2323 to order.

LenzisCatering.com
(978) 459-2323

Merrimack Repertory Theatre [Added May 27, 2020 at 4:07 p.m.]

Merrimack Repertory Theatre‘s (MRT) Young Company is a professional theatre training program for high school students interested in all aspects of performing arts and new play development as a career. Nationally recognized playwrights, actors, and directors will work closely with students to develop their own voice in their scripts and learn about performing improv, musical theatre, and modern approaches to acting and auditioning.

The MRT Young Company, goes virtual this year. Online class will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for three weeks, starting on July 13. Additionally, Merrimack Repertory Theatre Artistic Director Courtney Sale will teach two new, one-week virtual theatre classes – one for adults and one for youngsters in grades five through eight – in June.

Minuteman Press – Newburyport
Minuteman Press is open for business for all your commercial printing needs during this crisis.

Newburyport.MinutemanPress.com
(978) 465-2242

NewVo Interiors
NewVo Interiors will be offering a $100 furniture coupon to any customer who signs up for OfficeZilla and places an order of $200 or more. Sign up at NewVo.OfficeZilla.com.

(603) 639-4557

Orzo Restaurant
Orzo is offering take out between 4:00 and 8:00 p.m. on Sunday and Saturday. Call in to treat yourself to a variety of genuine Italian food.

OrzoResturant.com
(978) 686-6921

Panela
After attempts at providing free deliveries to the community, Panela has made the difficult decision to close down and maintain social distancing.

The Panela family has created a fundraiser that you can visit here to help continue paying its expenses and employees. Anything helps.

PanelaRestaurant.com
(978) 455-2688

Purple Carrot Bread Company
We are offering our entire menu for takeout, and will be offering Take and Bake entrees for pre-order. We have a changing list of daily made, fresh and frozen soups available as well. Below is a list of our Take and Bake entrees that are available for pre-order:

Lasagna Bolognese, Pulled Pork Mac N Cheese, Eggplant Parmesan, or Chicken Pot Pie: $35.
Plain Mac N Cheese or Greek Quinoa Salad: $25
Caesar or House Salad: $20

Below are some of our popular soups (changing daily):
White Bean and Roasted Garlic (Vegan), Italian Style Beef Stew with Mini Shells

Frozen Soups by the Quart:
Buffalo Chicken, Minestrone with Kale and White Bean (vegan), Tomato Rice (vegan), Chicken Marsala, Chicken Parm, Vegan Chili, Sweet Potato Chipotle (vegan)

PurpleCarrotBreadCo.com
(978) 456-5989

Sal’s Pizza
Sal’s Pizza and PRKD Brands are pleased to announce Pizza-For-A-Purpose (#PIZZAFORAPURPOSE) to help community members in need during this time of crisis. The organization will offer discounted pizzas for $4.99. Moreover, the brands will partner with elder services, first responders and hospital staff to provide boxed pizzas to people in need.

If any member of the community is in need or any organization would like to take advantage of these opportunities, contact Gerrylynn Darcy at (978) 490-0905.

Salvatore’s Restaurant [Updated March 23, 2o2o at 2:22 p.m.]
Salvatore’s Restaurant in Andover has joined Pizza-For-A-Purpose (#PIZZAFORAPURPOSE) with Sal’s Pizza to help community members in need during this time of crisis. Slashing prices, the restaurant will offer discounted meals daily via carryout to respond to recent challenges many families face.

Moreover, all Lupoli restaurant brands will partner with elder services, first responders and hospital staff in the Merrimack Valley to provide boxed pizzas to all in need, keeping people fed while maintaining CDC protocols.

If any member of the community is in need or organizations would like to take advantage of Salvatore’s Restaurant opportunities, please contact Kevin Branco, general manager, at (978) 409-2445.

SalvatoresAndover.com

Seaglass Restaurant & Lounge & Capri Seaside Italian Grille & Bar
Both Seaglass and our sister restaurant, Capri, are offering a selection of fresh seafood, fish, burgers and Italian favorites at reduced prices from each restaurant, prepared from scratch daily by our Seaglass culinary team.

Guests can order for curbside pickup by calling (978) 462-5800, or order through GoferNH for delivery during the following hours: Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 12 p.m. to 8p.m.; and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition, beginning next week, both Seaglass and Capri will be offering delivery through GrubHub.

SeaglassOceanside.com
CapriSeaside.com

Seoul Kitchen [Updated March 24 at 7:45 p.m.]

Seoul Kitchen is offering delivery for lunch and dinner. Most items can be packaged to-go and we will deliver it directly to you for a $6 fee. You can order online or via phone, and payments can be made before hand. We can perform a “safe delivery” and can drop the food off at your doorway, ring your doorbell (or call) and walk away. No signature or interactions required. Please click here to order delivery online.

Seoul Kitchen is also happy to donate food, at no charge, to the elderly and anyone in need. We are also offering to add toilet paper to your order at no extra charge. Add it to your cart when ordering online or tell us when ordering by phone. We are also including care packages with your takeout/delivery orders upon request. Care packages include 2 apples, 2 oranges, chips & a toilet paper. The fruit has been washed and sanitized for your safety.

Order online here.

EatSeoulKitchen.com
(978) 399-0016

Starbucks: [Updated May 18, 2020]

The Starbucks in Methuen at the Loop just opened after being closed for the last 8 weeks. Their hours are 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Starbucks.com
(978) 681-5284

Stevens-Coolidge Place [Updated June 2, 2020]

The Trustees announced the reopening of its Andover and North Andover area properties, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, Ward Reservation and Weir Hill on June 4, 2020! The Stevens-Coolidge Place will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ward Reservation and Weir Hill will be open daily, dawn to dusk.

TheTrustees.org
(978) 356-4351

Stones Hospitality [Updated May 27, 2o2o]
Moonstones is featuring an all-new menu for the new season

Pickup and delivery are available 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. daily. All orders made by phone for curb-side pickup will come with a 10% discount as well as a $10 gift certificate to dine-in at a later date. See the DoorDash menu to see their current carry-out menu and what specials are running and then call directly at (978) 256-7777.

Also, you thought a global pandemic would stop us from doing what we love? Think again. Next month, we’ll open the doors of our latest project, Stones Social, with dine-in services at whatever social distance is safe and legal, and curbside pick-up and delivery options. Not quite the announcement we had planned, but when life gives you lemongrass, you simmer it with coconut, chicken, and limes and call it Lime in the Coconut Soup for $10.00.

Stones Social is inspired by the social club, the public house, the local diner, a favorite dive – places where friends and neighbors have gotten together for generations. Imagine if Cobblestones and moonstones came together and had a baby – it takes some of the best from both worlds (yes, there will be buffalo tenders) in a space designed for a good time, at the same level of quality that has come to be expected from Stones Hospitality Group.

Keep up-to-date on Instagram and Facebook.

StonesSocial.com

Two Chefs Are Better Than One Catering
Offering take out entrees for families (click here for menu and pricing). Orders will be delivered to your car. Email them at eventplanning@twochefsfood.com or call their sales office at (978) 970-0212.

TwoChefsFood.com
(978) 970-0212

Tuscan Brands [ Updated June 2, 2020 ]

Tuscan Kitchen Salem is open for lunch on weekends and dinner everyday. Guests are encouraged to call 1.5 hours before their preferred seating time on the day they would like to dine to be added to our call ahead wait-list. Upon Arrival there may be a short wait before being seated. We look forward to hosting you!

TuscanBrands.com
(603) 952-4875

Warp & Weft
Open for pick-up orders Tuesday-Friday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Call (978) 455-6537 to place your order. Order delivery via Uber Eats. Order gift certificates online here.

WarpLowell.com
(978) 455-6537

Whistler House Museum of Art [Updated June 2, 2o2o]
Although the Whistler House Museum of art is closed until June 30, you can now take a virtual tour of the museum. Shop around and support local artists.

WhistlerHouse.org
(978) 452-7641

NoteWorthy – 5/3/20

May 3, 2020 by Jaden Mendola

Around the Valley

GLCF Announces $75,000 in COVID-19 Emergency Response Grants

The Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF) recently provided phase one emergency response grants to Greater Lowell nonprofits serving vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Totaling $75,000, these 60 grants are the first to be distributed from the newly established GLCF COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund, created to meet the need for nonprofit resources and services for the elderly, low-income, immigrants and homeless during these uncertain times. Categories of funding included: food insecure, essential/front line workers, homeless, immigrants, individuals with disabilities/elders, technology support/educational supplies and essential supplies.

An Update on the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center

The support Greater Lawrence Family Health Center (GLFHC) continues to look for new and innovative ways to raise philanthropic support and donations of personal protective equipment. They wish to thank those that have given to the GLFHC COVID-19 Response Fund, as well as the individuals and organizations who have donated to help recognize our hardworking staff.

Their monthly Mobile Food Market at the 34 Haverhill Street site, in partnership with the Greater Boston Food Bank, continues to serve the community as it has for the past three years. Their community support services team leads a group of over 30 staff volunteers on the last Saturday of every month in preparing bags of food and produce for patients in need. Over 750 Lawrence families received assistance this month. Here is short video from Saturday: GLFHC Mobile Food Market.

Pentucket Bank Processes Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Applications Through the Night

On April 27, Pentucket Bank processed over 100 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications through the night, securing critical funds for business owners who had applied with the bank.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) released the anticipated second round of PPP funds at 10:30 a.m. in the amount of $351 billion. Despite complications with the SBA portal, the Pentucket Bank team committed to securing funds for their customers, and they worked straight through until just before 3 a.m. when the last of their applications in queue was submitted and authorized.

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Business and Community Leaders Launch One Haverhill Fund

Haverhill community leaders launched the One Haverhill Fund to mobilize resources to provide emergency assistance to individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The One Haverhill Fund — convened by Rep. Andy Vargas and established by community leaders including Mayor James Fiorentini, Rep. Christina Minicucci, the Greater Haverhill Chamber, Community Action, Inc., Emmaus, Haverhill food pantries, and United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley — will mobilize resources for emergency assistance and expanded food distribution, with a focus on those who are most economically vulnerable during the pandemic. The fund will deploy resources through nonprofit partners to prevent financial crises and displacement for the residents of Haverhill.

Groundwork Lawrence Helps Eight Local Restaurants To Provide 1600 Meals A Week To Families

Groundwork Lawrence (GWL) recently reached out to community and funding partners to collaborate on a COVID-19 relief response. Working with funding partner MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) — a state program for Gateway Cities designed to accelerate economic growth within focused districts — GWL contracted with 8 local downtown Lawrence restaurants to launch a COVID-19 relief response that provides much needed meals to families while also providing critical dollars to local businesses and supporting local jobs.

Blue Lounge Restaurant, Cafe Azteca, Coco’s Cafe & Catering, El Taller Cafe & Bookstore, Grumpy G, Lu’s Cafe & Bakery, Tu Kasa, and Vaka Restaurant have entered into an agreement with Groundwork Lawrence to provide catered meals that are delivered to three community partners: Lawrence YMCA, Boys and Girls Club of Lawrence, and Bread and Roses.

Align Credit Union Donates $10,000 to Hospitals and Food Banks on Pay It Forward Day

Align Credit Union announced that it has donated $10,000 to a group of local hospitals, food banks and food pantries that are helping Massachusetts communities battle the spread and effects of COVID-19. On Pay It Forward Day, which takes place every year on April 28 and is meant to inspire acts of kindness globally, Align donated $1000 to each of the following organizations: A Place to Turn, Anna Jaques Hospital, Danvers People to People Food Pantry, Holy Family Hospital, Lowell General Hospital, Merrimack Valley Food Bank, MetroWest Medical Center, North Shore Medical Center, Our Neighbors’ Table and Wilmington Community Fund Food Pantry.

Speechapalooza Speakers And Speeches Announced

Students from Northern Essex Community College hosted an online public speaking event, Speechapalooza, on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube. Taking place April 29 through May 1, this event was used to collect donations for the college’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund.

The fund helps to provide laptops and/or internet access, tuition assistance, and stipends for students dealing with food insecurity, the switch to remote learning and other needs connected to the COVID-19 pandemic.

2019 MVMA Winners – Milestone (Longevity in Business)

August 27, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

Milestone — 5 Years
Catie’s Closet
Did you know children are the largest age group living in poverty in the United States? Since 2010, Catie’s Closet has been helping these children by providing in-school resources for clothing. Schools equipped with a Catie’s Closet give students living in poverty the ability to discreetly pick and choose the clothing and basic necessities they need. Catie’s Closet also provides additional items that students need to be successful, including toiletries, shoes, backpacks, undergarments, bus passes and grocery cards.
19 School St. | Dracut, Mass.
CatiesCloset.org

Milestone — 10 Years
Chowder Factory
Nothing says New England like chowder, and this Lowell company produces some of the best in the nation. Their clam chowder, lobster bisque and seafood appetizers have won the hearts of devoted locals. Stop by and check out their new line of Herban Fresh soups.
101 Phoenix Ave. | Lowell, Mass.

Milestone — 20 Years
Borrelli’s Italian Deli
Borrelli’s is famed throughout the region for its fine Italian products. Stop in for a specialty sandwich such as the Sicilian or Neapolitan or go for a sub or club sandwich. In a rush but want a homemade meal? Borrelli’s offers lasagna, chicken parmesan, stuffed shells, shepherd’s pie and more.
322 Merrimack St. | Methuen, Mass.
BorrellisDeli.com

Milestone — 30 Years
Lazarus House
Since opening its doors as an emergency homeless shelter in 1983, Lazarus House has been breaking the cycle of poverty in the Merrimack Valley region. Their food and clothing programs assist families stretch their dollars so they can afford rent, heat and utilities. Additional services include transitional housing for individuals, families and at-risk and homeless women; a culinary arts program; and three thrift stores.
412 Hampshire St. | Lawrence, Mass.
LazarusHouse.org

Milestone — 40 Years
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley are a private nonprofit agency serving elders and disabled adults who reside in Northeast Massachusetts. Established in 1974, their mission is to support an individual’s desire to make their own decisions, secure their independence and remain living in the community safely. Elder Services Care contracts with over 70 different care providers to ensure services delivered meet a variety of individual needs.
280 Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
ESMV.org

Milestone — 50 Years
Andover Bookstore
The Andover Bookstore is a gathering place for storytelling, authors, book groups and poetry readings. Authors such as Robert Pinsky, Donald Hall, Mary McGarry Morris, Jay O’Callahan, Marie Howe, David Ferry, Liz Michalski, Julia Alvarez, Tomie Depoala, Jan Brett, Brian Jacques, Lois Lowry and Andrew Dubus III do more than grace the shelves. They have also visited the store.
74 Main St. | Andover, Mass.
HugeBookstores.com/Andover

Milestone — 75 Years
Horseshoe Grille
Readers of this publication should be no strangers to The ‘Shoe. Their mouthwatering barbecue ribs were developed by a Memphis rib master and the southern twang in their barbecue sauce makes it the most authentic in the Valley. If you’d rather keep your hands clean, Horseshoe Grille serves steak, meatloaf and chicken.
226 Main St. l North Reading, Mass.
HorseshoeGrille.com

Milestone — 100 Years
Lowell Humane Society
Founded in 1873, the Lowell Humane Society is one of the oldest humane organizations in the state of Massachusetts. The purpose of the Lowell Humane Society is to prevent cruelty to animals, provide care for homeless and distressed animals and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. Operations are supported through the support of individuals, businesses and foundations.
951 Broadway St. | Lowell, Mass.
LowellHumaneSociety.org

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by: