Saturday, June 21, 2025

Bunker Hill 250th Anniversary Kick Off

 

Yesterday morning, I was honored to join local and regional leaders at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester for a press conference kicking off the 250th anniversary reenactment of the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Standing alongside Mayor Greg Verga, members of the Battle of Bunker Hill 250 Committee, public safety officials, historians, and reenactors, we marked the start of a historic weekend that brings our Revolutionary heritage to life right here on the North Shore.

With land and sea reenactments, educational displays, and colonial encampments, this weekend’s events offer a powerful opportunity to honor the courage and commitment of those who fought for our freedom in 1775.

Thank you to all who are making this commemoration possible. 

For more information and a full schedule, visit: https://battleofbunkerhill250.com


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National Grid Energy Efficiency Tips





Manage Energy Costs This Summer with National Grid's Energy Efficiency Tips

▶Adjust thermostats. Setting a thermostat to a higher, reasonable temperature while at home and adjusting it even higher when away from home can help save energy. Lowering the thermostat below the desired setting will not cool a home faster and may result in unnecessary energy consumption.

▶Run fans with air conditioning. Oscillating or box fans near air conditioning vents can improve cold air flow throughout a room.

▶Close window coverings. Ambient sunlight can heat a room. Turning off unused lighting and drawing window blinds to reduce heat will keep air conditioning from running more than needed.

▶Charge electric vehicles overnight. Shifting electric vehicle charging to overnight hours can earn customers off-peak charging rewards and reduce stress on the grid.

Visit ngrid.com/hereforyou to learn about residential, multi-family, and commercial energy efficiency programs and rebates, and find more information on ways to save energy and reduce energy costs.

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Park Passport Challenge


🌳 Summer Adventure Awaits! 🌳

DCR's 2025 Park Passport Challenge | DATES: June 21 - November 30, 2025
🌱 Explore 12 amazing DCR properties

☀️ Collect cool stamps

πŸ„ Discover the wonders of nature and history

πŸ¦‹ Each stamp marks a new adventure! πŸ¦‹

πŸ“How many can you collect?
Pick up your Park Passport at participating DCR park visitor centers.

Learn more by visiting: https://www.mass.gov/info.../dcr-park-passport-challenge

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Friday, June 20, 2025

Juneteenth: Raising the Flag


This week I was honored to participate in Juneteenth flag raising ceremonies and celebrations held throughout our community and at the State House in commemoration of Freedom Day.

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TARR IN THE NEWS 6.16.25



TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.16.25

'Sandy Bay's Jabez Tarr fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill'
By CNHI Statehouse Reporter Gail McCarthy | Gloucester Daily Times 

Tomorrow, Saturday June 21st, as the Battle of Bunker Hill is reenacted at Stage Fort Park, my family will be reflecting on Jabez Tarr — a 15-year-old Gloucester soldier and ancestor who fought bravely in that pivotal battle. 

A proud reminder of our local and family history. 

Link to full article below ⬇️ 
https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_bd350d25-9161...




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CAGF Grant Recipients

 











Congratulations to the 2025 CACF Grant Recipients!



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Heat Advisory

 

🚨 HEAT ADVISORY ALERT 🚨 

Dangerous heat and humidity are expected early next week, with Monday through Wednesday seeing the highest risk. 

Current forecasts show heat indices reaching 100–105°F or higher.

Please take steps to prepare now:

▶️ Check on seniors and vulnerable neighbors

▶️ Avoid strenuous outdoor activity

▶️ Stay hydrated!

Cooling centers may open depending on local conditions, and will continue to share updates as we receive more detailed information.

Stay safe and take this heat seriously.


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Thursday, June 19, 2025

North Shore Health Project Community Health Activist Award Breakfast and Fundraiser

 

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending North Shore Health Project Community Health Activist Award Breakfast and Fundraiser at Cruiseport Gloucester to recognize Kathy Day, this year's 2025 Community Health Activist Award recipient.

Kathy is a tireless advocate for individuals experiencing substance use disorder. She is the founder of Luminaries and Love, Gloucester Annual Overdose Vigil honoring those we’ve lost to addiction, and serves as Director of Program Development and Training at Learn 2 Cope . Her compassion and commitment truly exemplify what it means to be a Community Health Activist.

Thank you to the North Shore Health Project for organizing this meaningful event and for your decades of service since 1988 — from supporting individuals affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic to expanding harm reduction and LGBTQ+ health services through the ONESTOP Program.

Learn more at: https://healthproject.org/index.html


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The North Reading KidSpot Playground Opening

 



Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the North Reading KidSpot Playground Opening with my colleague State Representative Brad Jones and Senior District Director Mary Ann Nay - marking the occasion with official Senate & House citations.

Together, through our combined efforts, Rep. Jones and I secured FY23 and FY24 state earmarks to help launch the renovation of this beloved community space.

The new structures are already in place, and full project completion is expected by the end of this month — an exciting milestone for families in North Reading!


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Low Number Lottery

 

The #MassDOT RMV Low Plate Lottery is now OPEN! Enter for your chance to win one of 283 plates available this year. Some of the available low plates include 42, 108, 1997, 12K, X8 and A78.

πŸ“Enter online using the myRMV Online Service Center: www.Mass.Gov/lowplatelottery

πŸ“† Deadline to enter is Friday, August 15, 2025.

β„Ή️ https://www.mass.gov/.../massachusetts-rmv-announces-2025...

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TARR IN THE NEWS 6.16.25




TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.16.25

'Healey, others attend Pink House birthday party'
By Dyke Hendrickson | Daily News of Newburyport 

Excerpt below:

“State Sen. Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, who was one of the most vociferous voices in efforts to save the building, said, “It’s a joy to be here to honor this icon of times past. You gave it your best.”

Tarr noted that many residents had tried to work with federal authorities to preserve the Pink House, but the final answer was demolition.

“We didn’t get the answer we wanted,” Tarr said. “But we did get civic engagement in trying to save it and realizing something bigger than ourselves” was involved in trying to preserve and improve the island.

“What we gained through our effort was more than we lost.””

Link to full article below ⬇️ 
https://www.newburyportnews.com/.../article_dfaffd28-20f1...



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Celebrating Freedom: Juneteenth

 

FREEDOM DAY | JUNETEENTH | JUNE 19TH

For more than one-and-a-half centuries, the Juneteenth holiday has been celebrated and is observed annually on June 19th.

It marks the day in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger and 2,000 Union Troops arrived in Galveston, Texas bringing the news that slavery had been abolished by the Emancipation Proclamation.


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To Hot for Spot

 


🚨The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory which will starts at 11 AM today and remains in effect until 8 PM this evening. 🚨

The heatwave means that it is "Too Hot For Spot." Be sure your pets stay cool and hydrated. 

If you take your pet out for a ride in this heat and have to leave them unattended just remember, although it may feel like only a couple of minutes in the car, it can quickly become “Too Hot for Spot!” 

After only 10 minutes the temperature inside a car can exceed 120 degrees – even with the windows rolled down three inches!

Here is more information from the Animal Rescue League of Boston: 

Did you know leaving an animal in a hot car is the most common cause of heatstroke in pets?

When temperatures begin to rise, so do concerns about animal safety. Pets don’t sweat the way humans do, making them unable to cool their bodies efficiently in the heat. Keep your pet safe and healthy by following important basic guidelines listed on our website at https://www.arlboston.org/protection/too-hot-for-spot/

Spot an animal in imminent danger or distress? Contact your local Animal Control Office or Police Department.


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Wednesday, June 18, 2025

The Mystic Valley Elder Services Anniversary Summer BBQ

Last week, my Senior District Director Mary Ann Nay attended the Mystic Valley Elder Services 50th Anniversary Summer BBQ at the North Reading O’Leary Senior Center on my behalf, joining alongside my House colleague State Representative Brad Jones in marking this momentous occasion. 

For five decades, Mystic Valley Elder Services has been a cornerstone of support for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers—working tirelessly to promote dignity, independence, and quality of life across the region.

Congratulations to MVES on 50 years of dedicated service, and thank you for your unwavering commitment to the North Reading community and beyond!


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CPR & Kelly Clarkson: The North Shore Spotlight on NBC


Grateful to Kelly Clarkson and the team at The Kelly Clarkson Show for spotlighting an incredible young leader from Massachusetts - Newburyport resident and highschool student, Madeleine Jackman, featured on yesterday, June 17th’s episode!

After nearly losing her life as a child from choking on a piece of steak, Madeleine turned that terrifying moment into purpose, launching the Heart Starter Initiative to train restaurant employees and local businesses in CPR and the Heimlich maneuver.

I’m proud to partner with her as a co-sponsor of S.456, An Act requiring instruction in CPR and the use of defibrillators for high school graduation — a commonsense measure that will help save lives. 

Massachusetts is one of just seven states that does not yet require this training to graduate high school — it’s time for that to change.

Thank you, Madeleine, for your courage and determination to make a difference across our Commonwealth and beyond!

To learn more about our CPR Legislation (S.456), visit: 
▶https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S456

To watch the full clip on NBC's The Kelly Clarkson Show Official YouTube channel, visit: 
▶ https://youtu.be/1c4EhY2svwE?si=GvdrMQy8cHHrXsHU

To learn more about Madeleine's Heart Starter Initiative, visit: 
▶ https://www.cityofnewburyport.com/health.../events/370856

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TARR IN THE NEWS 06.16.25



TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.16.25

'Massachusetts pols condemn 'politically motivated' shootings'
By CNHI Statehouse Reporter Christian Wade | Gloucester Daily Times
 
Excerpt below:

“Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, called the “senseless and appalling” shootings a “direct affront to the principles of democracy and civil society.”

“When violence enters our public life – whether in the streets, online or behind closed doors – it undermines the very fabric of our shared civic trust,” he said in a prepared statement. “In a democracy, we resolve our differences through discussion and the exercise of free speech — not through threats or acts of violence.””

Link to full article below ⬇️ 
https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_22095e75-d5ad...

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Today in the Chamber

 

Today, June 18th, in the Senate Chamber during Formal Session at 1PM, the Senate will take up the following legislation: 

πŸ“ƒ The Senate's version (S.2529), reported in part, of H.4151, An Act making appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects, also known as the FY'25 Supplemental Budget

πŸ“ƒ It was filed to address funds received in the current fiscal year (FY25) in excess of the expected amount accounted for in the FY25 State Budget (also known as the General Appropriations Act) including deficient accounts, supporting distressed hospitals, and to approve various collective bargaining agreements. 

πŸ“ƒ The House approved its version (H.4151) on May 21, 2025.

πŸ“ƒ On Thursday, June 12th, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means filed its proposed $532.6 million version of the bill (S.2529) and adopted a procedural order specifying the procedure for filing amendments to the FY'25 Supplemental Budget.

πŸ“ƒThe amendment deadline for the FY'25 Supplemental budget was Monday, June 16th at 2:30 PM.

You can read a copy of the proposed legislation and 66 total filed amendments online at the following location:

▶https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2529

To watch the formal Senate Session LIVE, visit ⬇

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7482


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In District Office Hours


Upcoming Constituent Services Office Hours for next week [June Week 4]  πŸ—“️

Have a question or concern? Meet with a member of my staff in person.

Official points of contact so that my office can assist you:
πŸ“ž (617)-722-1600 
πŸ“§ Bruce.Tarr@MaSenate.gov

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Tuesday, June 17, 2025

This Week in The Chamber 06.17.25



This week in the Senate Chamber during tomorrow, Wednesday's Formal Session at 1PM, the Senate will be taking up the following legislation: 

πŸ“ƒ The Senate's version (S.2529), reported in part, of H.4151, An Act making appropriations for fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects, also known as the FY'25 Supplemental Budget

- It was filed to address funds received in the current fiscal year (FY25) in excess of the expected amount accounted for in the FY25 State Budget (also known as the General Appropriations Act) including deficient accounts, supporting distressed hospitals, and to approve various collective bargaining agreements. 

- The House approved its version (H.4151) on May 21, 2025.

- On Thursday, June 12th, the Senate Committee on Ways and Means filed its proposed version of the bill (S.2529) and adopted a procedural order specifying the procedure for filing amendments to the FY'25 Supplemental Budget.

- The amendment deadline for the FY'25 Supplemental budget was yesterday, June 16th at 2:30 PM.

You can read a copy of the proposed legislation and filed amendments online at the following location:
▶https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2529

To watch the formal Senate Session LIVE, visit ⬇
Wednesday, 6/18 Live Session Link ⬇

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7482

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Flag Day in the District

 



On Saturday, June 14th, I had the honor of attending several Flag Day events throughout our district — each one a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s enduring symbol of freedom and unity. 

Highlights from the day included:

 Rowley U.S. Flag Retirement Ceremony & Officer Retirement Recognition

 A solemn gathering at the Rowley Fire Station with the Veterans Committee, Fire Department, Police Department, and town scouts to respectfully retire worn American flags. I also had the distinct honor of supporting the Rowley Police Department in the formal retirement of Officer Stephen Levesque, badge #120, recognizing his years of dedicated service to the community.

Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Club Flag Day Celebration

A beautiful display of 100 American flags along the South Green, accompanied by thoughtful remarks and a stirring performance by a bagpiper.

Gloucester Elks Flag Day Ceremony

A moving tribute that also recognized graduating students from Gloucester and Rockport with scholarships for their academic achievement and community involvement.

Derek Hines Flag Day 5K in Newburyport

A community 5K race held in honor of 1LT Derek S. Hines, a 2003 graduate of West Point who gave his life on September 1, 2005, during combat operations in Baylough, Afghanistan. Even after being fatally wounded, Derek continued to return fire — an extraordinary act of valor. His legacy lives on through this annual event and the many who continue to run in his memory.

North Reading Republican Town Committee Flag Day Essay Contest

The 13th annual Essay Scholarship Award ceremony at the North Reading Common War Memorial. This year’s recipient of the $1,000 essay scholarship is North Reading High School graduate Addison Kathleen Marie Stetson. 

Each of these events reflects the spirit of service, unity, and patriotism that defines our Commonwealth. My deepest thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, and community members who made these tributes possible.


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The Pink House: A Legacy a Century Long





This week, I joined Governor Maura Healey, my house colleague Kristin Kassner State Representative 2nd Essex District, local officials, key stakeholders, advocates, and members of the community in celebrating the 100th birthday of the Pink House on Plum Island—an enduring icon of our region’s cultural and historical identity.

This landmark celebration was a testament to the incredible outpouring of civic engagement, creativity, and love for a place that has meant so much to so many. From Pink House-themed specials in local businesses to the Artists Fair at PITA Hall and, yes, even a Pink House-shaped cake, it was a day to remember.

While the path to preservation didn’t end how we had hoped, I was proud to stand up for the Pink House over many years and to work closely with Support the Pink House, Governor Healey, and Representative Kassner in a last, united effort to save it in place.

As I said during the event, “It’s a joy to be here to honor this icon of times past. You gave it your best.” And while we didn’t get the answer we wanted, we did come together in an extraordinary way—proving that when communities rally around something they love, what we gain is more powerful than what we lose.

Thank you everyone who helped the Pink House reach it's 100th year in 2025

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The Legacy of Bunker Hill 250 Years On


Today, we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill — a defining moment in our nation's fight for independence.

On June 17, 1775, brave patriots stood their ground in Charlestown against overwhelming odds. Though technically a loss, the courage and resolve shown that day proved that the colonial militia could stand toe-to-toe with the British Army and inspired a revolution that would shape the course of history.

As we reflect on this important milestone, may we remember the sacrifice, unity, and enduring spirit of those who fought for liberty and laid the foundation for the freedoms we cherish today.

Learn more about how you can celebrate this milestone anniversary in our district by watching the upcoming reenactment of this battle in Gloucester's Stage Fort Park on June 21st and June 22nd ⬇

https://battleofbunkerhill250.com/

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Fiscal Year 25 Supplemental Budget: Update


Yesterday, the Supplemental Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025 Conference Committee filed its report, H.4227, An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2025 to provide for supplementing certain existing appropriations and for certain other activities and projects, also known as the FY25 Surtax Supplemental Budget, appropriating approximately $1.39 billion in funds.

The committee of conference on the disagreeing votes of the two branches with reference to the Senate amendment of the House Bill making appropriations for the fiscal year 2025 supplemental budget (H.4010), reports, in part, recommending passage of the accompanying bill H.4227.

You can find a copy of the report online at the following location: 
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4227

You can find a copy of H.4010 online at the following location: 
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4010

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MASSDOT Advisory


πŸ“’TOMORROW, JUNE 18TH: massDOT Overnight Bridge Deck Milling and Paving on Route 1 in Newbury πŸ“’
🚨Nightly lane closures, Wednesday, June 18, through Friday, June 27, 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning 🚨
NEWBURY - The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing that it will be implementing temporary overnight lane closures with detours on Route 1 (Newburyport Turnpike) northbound and southbound at the MBTA, Little River and Parker River bridges in Newbury. The lane closures are scheduled to occur nightly, Wednesday, June 18, through Friday, June 27, 7:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the following morning. Work will not be performed on Saturday night.
Parker River bridge: One lane of northbound travel will remain open at all times. Southbound traffic will be detoured as follows: 
• Right on Boston Road. 
• Left on Middle Road.
• Left on Elm Road.
• Left onto Route 1 northbound or right onto Route 1 southbound.
MBTA and Little River bridge: No detour required. One lane of travel be maintained in each direction at all times.
The work is being conducted as part of a $17.2 million project to resurface and perform related work along approximately 7 miles of roadway on this section of Route 1.
Appropriate signage and messaging will be in place to guide drivers through the work area.   Drivers traveling through the affected area should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution.   All scheduled work is weather dependent and subject to change without notice.      
For more information on traffic conditions, travelers are encouraged to:      
🚧 Download the Mass511 mobile app or visit www.mass511.com to view live cameras, travel times, real-time traffic conditions, and project information before setting out on the road. Users can subscribe to receive text and email alerts for traffic conditions.      
🚧 Dial 511 and select a route to hear real-time conditions.      
🚧 Follow @MassDOT on X, (formerly known as Twitter), to receive regular updates on road and traffic conditions.

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Monday, June 16, 2025

Fiscal Year 25 Supplemental Budget

 


On Wednesday, June 18th, the Senate will consider S.2529, a Supplemental Budget centered around funds received in the current fiscal year (FY25) in excess of the expected amount accounted for in the FY25 State Budget (also known as the General Appropriations Act) including deficient accounts, supporting distressed hospitals, and to approve various collective bargaining agreements. 

This bill was initially filed by Governor Healey on April 2, 2025, and a House version was passed on May 21, 2025.

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means has proposed a version of this budget that contains $532.6 million in spending and 66 amendments have been filed by Senators to change that committee version of the bill. 

You can view the bill and filed amendments at https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2529.


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Free Swim Lessons


Free swim lessons are back this summer at DCR pools for kids aged 4-12! 

Registration opens Monday, June 16 for Session One which runs June 30-July 14 with two more sessions to follow. 

Link for details on where and when to register: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dcr-learn-to-swim-2025

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Brown Bag Med Check Event 6/16/25


Today, Monday, 6/16/25 from 10AM-1PM at the 

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Sunday, June 15, 2025

Gloucester's Hometown Hero

 

Congratulations to SRO Brendan Chipperini for being named Boston 25 News’ Hometown Hero this week!

As a School Resource Officer with the Gloucester Police Department, Brendan is being recognized by FOX25 and the Massachusetts Army National Guard for his courage, dedication to public service, and outstanding mentorship of youth in our community.

His commitment to the future leaders of Gloucester is making a lasting impact for generations to come. 

Please join me in recognizing and thanking Brendan for his service and dedication to making a significant impact in our Gloucester community.


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Saturday, June 14, 2025

My Remarks Regarding the assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman.




Today, I released the following statement regarding the apparent assassination of Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman. 


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United States Army's 250th birthday


Today, we salute the United States Army on its 250th birthday — a milestone marking two and a half centuries of service, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to defending our nation and its freedoms. 

Since its founding on June 14, 1775, the Army has played a vital role in preserving liberty and protecting the values we hold dear. We are forever grateful to all who have worn the uniform — past and present — and to the families who stand beside them.

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Flag Day


Today is Flag Day — a time to honor the American flag as a powerful symbol of our shared values, enduring freedoms, and nation.

From town greens to schoolyards, from city halls to homes across the Commonwealth, the Stars and Stripes represent the principles that define us as a nation and the sacrifices made by so many to protect them.

Let us take a moment today to reflect, remember, and renew our commitment to those ideals.

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Bunker Hill 250



Celebrations in Charlestown have begun, and the events in Gloucester are 7 days away!

To make travel easier, visit the designated sites for Charlestown events, BH250.org, and Gloucester events, BattleofBunkerHill250.com, to access information about parking, transportation, schedules and more.

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Friday, June 13, 2025

The Grand Opening of Our Place




This week, our District Liaison and Legislative Aide Kristin McDonald attended, on my behalf, the grand opening ceremony of 'Our Place' — a new outdoor community space located at 95 County Road in Ipswich, right next to the The Open Door Food Pantry Ipswich-location. 

Hosted by the Ipswich Housing Authority, Ipswich MA USA, this important milestone brings a welcoming area to gather, play, and connect, and represents a meaningful investment in strengthening our community.

Congratulations to everyone who made 'Our Place' possible — thank you for your commitment to creating shared spaces that bring people together!



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