O'Maley Middle School's Science Central Program Earmark

 

📢TARR ANNOUNCES LOCAL EARMARK FOR O'MALEY MIDDLE SCHOOL'S SCIENCE CENTRAL PROGRAM IN GLOUCESTER 📢

I was proud to secure a $100,000 earmark for the Science Central Program at O'Maley Innovation Middle School in Gloucester as part of the $1.3B FY25 Surtax Supplemental Budget.

O’Maley’s Science Central Program is an outstanding example of what’s possible when innovation, creativity, and a commitment to student success come together.

This teacher-created, hands-on STEM program is not only engaging students—it’s transforming how we think about education. 

I’m honored to support its continued growth and impact in our community—and beyond.

Learn more about the Science Central Program by visiting:

▶https://sites.google.com/gloucesters.../science-central/home

In District Office Hours

 

Upcoming Constituent Services Office Hours for next week [July Week 2] 🗓️ ⬇️ 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:

📞 (617)-722-1600

📧 Bruce.Tarr@MaSenate.gov

Welcoming the Newcomers: The Growing North Shore Small Business Community

Congratulations to the newest members of our local small business community!

Klein Marine Systems | Newburyport (https://www.klein.com/news)

The Hive NBPT | Newburyport

June & Honey Charcuterie | Newburyport

Oola Bowls Newburyport | Newburyport

TARR IN THE NEWS 6.28.25

 

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.28.25

'Fiesta's opening a time to gather with family'

By Ethan Forman | Gloucester Daily Times 

Excerpt below: 

"State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, took the time to give remarks in both English and Italian, as he does every year.

“The fact is we are blessed to have each other; we are blessed to have this community. We are blessed to live in a place for 98 years where we have been able to get together in the town square and give thanks to St. Peter and give thanks to each other,” Tarr said."

To read the full article, visit: https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_221546f2-230c...

Energy Dashboard Interview

 📢 Missed it LIVE? Watch my interview on Boston 25 News with Kerry Kavanaugh RE: my Energy Dashboard legislative initiatives 📢

▶ https://www.boston25news.com/.../IUVIKOYS5RC3NMF3GH2M7VLFI4/

Final Fiscal Year 2025 Supplemental Budget Local Earmarks

On Wednesday, June 18, the Senate enacted the final version of the FY’25 Surtax Supplemental Budget (H.4227), which was signed into law by Governor Healey last week on Tuesday, June 24.

I was proud to secure important local earmarks that will directly impact education and transportation priorities in our communities.

See local earmark funding for our communities above in the final FY25 Surtax Supplemental Budget

To read the full version of the FY25 Surtax Supplemental Budget, visit:

▶️ https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4227

MASSDOT Announcement

 📢RMV ANNOUNCEMENT: REMOTE DRIVER EDUCATION CLASSES WILL DISCONTINUE STARTING ON SEPTEMBER 22ND 📢

The option for remote (virtual) Driver’s Education classes will be extended through the summer and will transition back to in-person education only starting September 22, 2025.

Effective September 22, a live instructor will be required to teach all classes, including the parent class.  There will be a maximum of 30 students per class (for a student/teacher ratio of 30:1).

This change will result in enhanced student engagement, stronger learning outcomes, equal opportunities for all schools, and improved road safety.

Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Vote

 

Today, June 30th, starting at 1PM, the Senate will vote on adoption of the General Appropriations Bill Conference Committee report (H.4240), also known as the FY26 Budget.

This version appropriates $61.01 billion for state budget spending for Fiscal Year 2026.

To watch today's Senate session LIVE, click here:

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7488

You can find a copy of the conference committee report online at the following location: https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/House/H4240

Update From The Chamber 6.30.25

 

Yesterday, the The General Appropriations Bill Conference Committee filed its report, H.4240, An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year 2026 for the maintenance of the departments, boards, commissions, institutions and certain activities of the Commonwealth, for interest, sinking fund and serial bond requirements, and for certain permanent improvements, also known as, the FY26 Budget.

You can find a copy of the conference committee report online at the following location: 

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/House/H4240

Buona Festa di San Pietro

 

To all of my Italian-American friends and constituents - and to all who celebrate

Buona Festa di San Pietro!

Wishing you and your families a joyful and blessed Feast of St. Peter as we honor Gloucester’s proud fishing traditions and the enduring faith of our community.

Viva San Pietro!

Animal Welfare Lobby Day

 

🦒🐘🎪 Standing Up for Animals on Beacon Hill 🎪🦒🐘

On Wednesday, June 24, I was honored to join advocates, fellow legislators, and passionate citizens for Animal Welfare Lobby Day at the State House — a powerful day of action and recognition for those working to protect animals across our Commonwealth.

I was honored to be recognized for legislation I sponsored last session — now signed into law as Chapter 168 of the Acts of 2024 — which prohibits the use of certain wild animals in traveling exhibits and shows. 

I was honored to share remarks during the awards ceremony — reaffirming my commitment to continuing the fight for animal welfare here in Massachusetts and standing with those who advocate for the humane treatment of all creatures.

Don't shoot until you see the whites of their eyes. . .

 Honoring the Spirit of 1775 in Gloucester 

“Dearest Friend, The Day; perhaps the decisive Day is come on which the fate of America depends…” - Abigail Adams in a letter to her husband John Adams

This past weekend, it was a privilege to join nearly 20,000 people at Stage Fort Park in Gloucester to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Bunker Hill — a defining moment in our nation’s fight for independence.

As one of more than 1,000 reenactors from over 100 historical groups, I was honored to help bring history to life on the very shores of our great city. 

From the British naval landing — where Gloucester schooners stood in for warships — to the flanking and main attacks on the redoubt, the weekend was a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who stood for liberty in 1775.

I want to extend heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all who made this remarkable event possible:

➡️ Revolution 250

➡️ Essex National Heritage Commission

➡️ Maritime Gloucester

➡️ Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

➡️ Discover Gloucester

➡️ 2nd Massachusetts Regiment

➡️ Lexington Minute Men

➡️ 10th Massachusetts Regiment

➡️ 1st Regiment of Foot Guards

➡️ City of Gloucester

➡️ Gloucester Police Department 

➡️ Gloucester Fire Department 

➡️ Gloucester Department of Public Works

➡️ JGPR

And a special thank you to my brother Ringo Tarr and niece Emily, who handled behind the scenes logistics ensuring this commemorative experience was able to happen creating a  

meaningful celebration of our shared history possible for all to enjoy. 

It was truly humbling to be part of one of the largest historical reenactments in New England’s history, and even more humbling to portray my relative Jabez Tarr, who fought in the actual battle 250 years ago.  

Thank you to everyone who made this special event come to life - helping to preserve and continue to tell the story of the American Revolution for generations to come.

Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines

 

“The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make the difference.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 Commonwealth Heroines!

A special congratulations to 8 local heroines from our district recognized at the 22nd Annual Commonwealth Heroines of Massachusetts Celebration at the State House yesterday!

Antonietta Calabrese | Gloucester

Christine Cohne | North Andover

Elizabeth DeGrenier | Newbury

Kathi Lee | North Reading

Martha Morrison | Topsfield

Jennifer Roketenetz | Salisbury

Hillary Stasonis | North Andover

Jan Stephanie Tyler-Nelson | Byfield

In Memoriam: Firefighter Jeffrey “Jeff” F. Deschenes

In Memoriam: Firefighter Jeffrey “Jeff” F. Deschenes

Last week on Wednesday, June 18, the Senate adjourned in solemn tribute to Firefighter Jeff Deschenes of the North Andover Fire Department, whose unexpected passing on May 29 leaves a deep void in our community and in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jeff dedicated his life to protecting others — from his start with the Lawrence Fire Department to his leadership as North Andover’s first EMS Coordinator. 

His service wasn’t just about answering the call — it was about going above and beyond: launching CPR training, EMS outreach, car seat installations, and pioneering lifesaving protocols that will continue to serve the community for years to come.

His heroic efforts during the 2018 Merrimack Valley gas explosions earned him the Firefighter of the Year award and numerous other honors. But what defined Jeff most was his compassion, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to keeping others safe.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Kathy, children Emily and Ryan, and all of his loved ones. 

May his legacy inspire us and his memory be a blessing.

Learn more about Jeff's extraordinary life and legacy ⬇ 

https://www.pollardfuneralhome.com/.../jeffrey-deschenes/... 

OUI Excellence Award Recipient

 

Please join me in congratulating our West Newbury Police Department's Officer Hayden Sanborn on recently receiving an OUI Excellence Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)!

'West Newbury PD officer honored by MADD' | Daily News of Newburyport 

+++

WEST NEWBURY — Chief Michael Dwyer and the West Newbury Police Department recently announced that Officer Hayden Sanborn was honored with an OUI Excellence Award from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his commitment to impaired driving enforcement.

MADD Massachusetts recognized more than 50 law enforcement officials during the Annual Law Enforcement Recognition Ceremony on Tuesday, June 10, at the Devens Common Center. In addition to OUI Excellence Awards, MADD recognized its officer of the year, trooper of the year, drug recognition expert of the year, the MADD Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and unit of the year.

Sanborn joined the department in 2022, having previously worked with the MBTA Police.

“Officer Sanborn is an outstanding member of our department, who has worked diligently in his OUI enforcement efforts throughout the past year,”Dwyer said. “This recognition is well-deserved, and I am grateful for his service to our community.”

MADD Massachusetts annually honors officers, departments and prosecutors from across the state who have gone above and beyond in the fight against drunk and drugged driving.

Secure Homes Save Lives: Learn How Today

🏡 Nearly 50% of children with autism wander from safe places—and eloping to water is the biggest danger. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with ASD.

💡Learn how to secure your home and prepare for emergencies to support your child’s safety. Mass.gov/AutismWaterSafety

PTSD Awareness Month

June is PTSD Awareness Month and today is PTSD Awareness Day — both are a time to deepen our understanding of the invisible wounds that many in our communities carry, especially those who have served in uniform.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, and raising awareness is a key step toward breaking stigma, supporting recovery, and showing compassion.

Let’s stand with survivors, support access to care, and continue working together to build a Commonwealth where no one faces PTSD alone.

🔗 Explore the full list of trauma resources here:https://namimass.org/trauma

MASSDOT Advisory

 

🚨📢 MassDOT Advisory for Salisbury: Temporary Lane Closures and Detours on Route 1 from Pike Street to New Hampshire State Line 📢🚨

SALISBURY - MassDOT is announcing that temporary lane closures and detours will be in place on Route 1 in Salisbury, between Pike Street and the New Hampshire state line. Lane closures and detours will occur daily, Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., beginning on Monday, July 7, and continuing through Friday, July 18.

During this operation, access will be maintained for all residences and businesses along this section of Route 1.

Detours will be in place on both Route 1 northbound and southbound:

🚧 Route 1 southbound detour will consist of a right onto Main Street at the Seabrook rotary, a left onto Toll Road, and then a left onto Pike Street.

🚧 Route 1 northbound detour will consist of a left onto Pike Street, a right onto 

Toll Road, and a right onto Main Street.

The temporary lane closures and detours are necessary to allow the contractor to safely and effectively perform full-depth roadway construction and paving.

Police details will be used to direct traffic on Route 1 and at affected intersections. Appropriate signage and messaging will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.

Drivers traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution.

All scheduled work is weather dependent and subject to change without notice.

The work is being conducted as part of a $22.2 million project for roadway reconstruction and related improvements along approximately 2.5 miles of Route 1.

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.

The New Legislative Joint Rules

Today the Massachusetts Legislature adopted long overdue rules to increase transparency, efficiency, and accountability. 

Having championed these goals for years, I am glad to see this progress.

But, there is still more to be done. 

Please see fact sheet and highlights for the Joint Rules below ⬇️ 

To read the full Conference Committee report on Joint Rules that the Senate accepted during today’s formal session, visit:

 

▶️ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/Rules/Joint

In addition to the joint rules approved today, the House and the Senate approved their own chamber’s rules in February to govern their internal operations, which can be viewed here: 

▶️ https://malegislature.gov/Laws/Rules/Senate

St. Peter's Fiesta

Viva! 

Georgetown Army band Concert

 

Coming to the Town of Georgetown, MA on July 6th!

TARR IN THE NEWS 6.25.26

 

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.25.25

'Gloucester Fresh seafood program gets Bunker Hill refresh'

By Ethan Forman | Gloucester Daily Times 

Excerpt below:

"Among those on hand to greet the small landing party were Mayor Greg Verga, state Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester, who was in the period garb as a participant in the battle reenactment, and City Council President Tony Gross, who serves at-large.

“The Gloucester Fresh program is important because it connects fresh, locally harvested seafood with consumers, giving the fishing industry an effective way to market its products,” Tarr said to the Times in a text message, “and residents and visitors have the experience of eating fish sustainably caught by fishermen who continue Gloucester’s oldest and most historic trade.”

Read the full article ⬇️

https://www.gloucestertimes.com/.../article_81b7cf66-2a4b...

Road to Revolution Parade

 

Hope to see you this Saturday, 6/28 at Newburyport's Road to Revolution Parade in celebration of Massachusetts' 250th Anniversary!

Today In The Senate Chamber 6.26.25

Today in the Senate Chamber during Formal Session beginning at 11 AM, the Senate will be taking up the following legislation: 

📃 The Senate Ways & Means' version of S.2522, An Act strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth (S.2538).

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

▶https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2538

To watch the formal Senate Session LIVE today, visit ⬇

https://malegislature.gov/Events/Sessions/Detail/7486

TARR IN THE NEWS 6.20.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.20.25

'Road to Revolution Parade set for later this month'

By Matt Petry | Daily News of Newburyport 

Excerpt below:

"Looking to celebrate the origin of America’s independence, the Custom House Maritime Museum and Museum of Old Newbury are partnering together to present the Road to Revolution Parade later this month.

“We are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution,” parade co-Chair Bob Cronin said.

Set to begin on June 28 at 10 a.m., the parade kicks off on lower Federal Street and Water Street, and marches up Federal to High Street before turning right on High and proceeding to the Bartlet Mall.

It will then loop the frog pond and march down State Street to a review stand at Market Square.

“It’ll be a parade of reenactors, some local floats from the museums, Lowell’s Boat Shop, the Custom House and Plum Island Light. We’ll have some things for the kiddos, decorating your bikes if you want to be in the parade,” Cronin said.

In attendance will be members of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard, as well as state and local officials, including Gov. Maura Healey, Newburyport Mayor Sean Reardon, state Rep. Dawne Shand, D-Newburyport; state Sen. Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester; and U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Salem."

Read the full article ⬇️

https://www.newburyportnews.com/.../article_3cad2a45-ad4b...

HEAT ADVISORY 6.24.25

🚨HEAT ADVISORY ALERT for our region through 8 PM this! Stay cool, stay alert. 🚨

Here are a list of cooling stations in communities throughout our district:

BOXFORD

🧊Council on Aging is open as the Cooling Station, Monday-Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

ESSEX

🧊Town Hall Auditorium is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM. 

🧊TOHP Burnham Public Library is open Monday and Wednesday until 7:00 PM. On Tuesday, the public library is open until 5:00 PM. 

🧊Essex Senior Center is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

GLOUCESTER

🧊Action Inc. Shelter is open for unhoused individuals. 

🧊The Grace Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 

🧊The Open Door Gloucester is open Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. 

🧊The Rose Baker Senior Center is open Monday and Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. 

🧊On Tuesday, the Senior Center will be open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

HAMILTON

🧊Senior center at 299 Bay Rd is open from 8 AM-4:30 PM  

🧊H-W Public Library at 14 Union St is open 9:30 AM-8 PM 

IPSWICH

🧊Ipswich Town Hall is open Mondays 8 AM to 7 PM, Tuesdays – Thursdays 8 AM to 4 PM, and Fridays from 8 AM to 12 PM. 

🧊Ipswich Public Library is open Mondays - Wednesdays 9 AM to 8 PM, Thursdays - Fridays 9 AM to 5 PM, Saturdays 9 AM to 4 PM

MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA

🧊 Town Hall is open Mondays - Wednesdays 8:30 AM to 5 PM, Thursdays 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Closed Fridays.

🧊 The Public Library is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 AM to 7 PM, Saturdays 10 AM to 4 PM, Closed Sundays.

NEWBURY

🧊P.I.T.A. Hall is open 24/7 to Plum Island residents. 

🧊Newbury Police Department is open 24/7.

 

🧊The Byfield Fire Station is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 

🧊Newbury Town Library is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Wednesdays 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 

🧊Newbury Council on Aging is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and Tuesdays 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

NEWBURYPORT

🧊Newburyport Public Library @ 94 State Street, Mon – Tues from 9 AM - 9 PM

🧊Senior Community Center @ 331 High Street, Mon – Tues from 8 AM - 4 PM

🧊The Salvation Army @ 40 Water Street, Mon 9AM - 3 PM and Tues from 9 AM – 5 PM

NORTH READING

🧊O’Leary Senior Center is Open 8:00 AM-4:00 PM Mondays through Thursdays, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM Fridays.  

🧊Flint Memorial Library is Open 10:00 AM-8:00 PM Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; and 10:00 AM-5:00 PM Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

ROCKPORT

🧊Police Station Community Room, 168 Main Street will be open today until 7:30PM.

🧊 Seniors can come to the Senior Center during working hours 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Mondays-Thursdays, Fridays 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM.

ROWLEY

🧊 Rowley Public Library is open Mon-Thu 9 AM - 7 PM, Fri-Sat 9 AM - 2 PM.

🧊 Rowley Council on Aging is open Mon - Thur 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM, Friday - 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM.

SALISBURY

🧊 Salisbury Council on Aging is open Mon-Thurs from 8 AM to 4 PM, and Fri 8 AM to 12:30 PM.

🧊 Salisbury Public Library is open Monday and Wednesdays 10 AM–6 PM, Tuesdays 12–8 PM, and Thursdays 10 AM–8 PM

WENHAM

🧊Wenham Council on Aging is official Cooling Station for Wenham.  Open weekdays from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.  

Update From The Chamber 6.24.25

Yesterday, the Joint Rules Conference Committee filed its report, S.2545, An Act Joint Rules for the Senate and House of Representatives for the 2025-2026 Legislative Session, regarding the Legislature's agreement on joint rules for the 194th General Court. 

You can find a copy of the conference committee report online at the following location: 

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2545

TARR IN THE NEWS 6.18.25

TARR IN THE NEWS | 6.18.25

'Rowley receives $500K grant for Glen St. bridge project'

By Matt Petry | Daily News of Newburyport 

Excerpt below:

"Work to replace the historic Glen Street bridge over Mills River received a boost Wednesday after it was announced the town was awarded a $500,000 state grant through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation’s Municipal Small Bridge Program.

The announcement of these funds to help with the replacement project was made by Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, R-Gloucester; state Rep. Kristin E. Kassner, D-Hamilton; and local Rowley officials including Rowley Highway Surveyor Patrick Snow.

Tarr said the “significant” grant funding will propel the project forward.

“These resources will take the strain off of Rowley’s budget and replace this critical piece of transportation infrastructure,” Tarr said."

Read the full article ⬇️

https://www.newburyportnews.com/.../article_d893bea0-2873...

Announcement From The MBTA

 

📢🚨 ANNOUNCEMENT FROM THE MBTA🚨📢 

Due to extreme heat today and tomorrow, the MBTA may need to operate trains at reduced speeds in some areas to ensure safety as they compensate for heat-related stress on the tracks, which could result in slightly longer travel times.   

The MBTA will also have crews stationed around the system to provide assistance. Riders are encouraged to learn more about:

1️⃣ Keeping cool in the heat ⬇️ 

https://www.boston.gov/.../emergency.../keeping-cool-heat 

2️⃣ Consult the T’s Extreme Heat Guide ⬇️ 

https://www.mbta.com/guides/weather-guide#heat

🚇 What to Expect on the T 🚇

▶️ In addition to operating trains at reduced speeds if necessary, the MBTA will have crews performing track inspections and prepared to make emergency repairs as needed.  

▶️ Overhead wires that power some MBTA trolleys and trains expand and sag during extremely hot weather. 

MBTA personnel are making adjustments to prevent low-hanging wires.  

▶️ Air conditioning is being checked and repaired wherever needed. Just like home, buses stay cooler when the windows are closed. Riders can help keep things cool by closing open bus windows.  

☎️ Report a Hot Vehicle ☎️ 

Riders are strongly encouraged to let MBTA staff know if there is an air conditioning issue on your bus or train. Tell your operator, let a station official know.

▶️ Call 617-222-3200

▶️ Send us a message ⬇️ 

https://www.mbta.com/customer-support