Informing the WMRA Advisory Board About Regional Efforts to Sustain the Ipswich River Watershed Through Collaboration

Yesterday, I attended the WMRA Advisory Board to discuss the regionalization of water north of Boston. Recently, multiple communities, water suppliers, not-for-profit organizations, the region's federal legislative delegation, and facilitators from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation we signed a historic charter agreement to reach solutions to achieve water supply resilience and ecosystem health. 

 

I am grateful to the many legislators in our region for their help as task force convenors and for providing legislative support:

• Senator Brendan Crighton 
• State Senator Diana DiZoglio 
• State Senator Barry Finegold 
• State Senator Cindy Friedman 
• Senator Jason Lewis 
• Senator Joan B. Lovely Representative 
• Jamie Belsito 
• Rep. Dan Cahill 
• State Representative Pete Capano 
• Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante 
• State Representative Ken Goodman 
• State Representative Richard M. Haggerty 
• State Representative Brad Jones 
• Representative Sally Kerans 
• Representative Christina Minicucci 
• State Rep. Lenny Mirra 
• Representative Frank Moran 
• State Rep. Tram T. Nguyen 
• Representative Jerry Parisella 
• Representative Dave Robertson 
• Representative Paul Tucker State 
• Representative Tom Walsh 
• Representative Donald H. Wong

Gloucester's Kent Circle Tree Is Merry And Bright

Yesterday marked the return of Santa and Mrs. Claus to Gloucester for the parade from Jodrey State Fish Pier to the awaiting stage and tree at Kent Circle, We are grateful to our friends in Shelburne, Nova Scotia., our sister city, the amazing volunteers, and of course all the children and families who brought such great cheer.

 

Santa's Arrival by Boat in Rockport

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus arrived at T-Wharf on Rockport Harbor this Saturday on a lobster boat, as is traditional in these parts, much to the delight of many. There were carols sung and lights strung for the official lighting of the town tree at Dock Square. I always enjoy helping Santa when he is near.

 

Generous Gardeners

I was glad to join with the Generous Gardeners for an enthusiastic gathering at the Gloucester House to celebrate the 70th birthday of Antoinetta Calabrese, and the release of her new book, which chronicles her family's story. 

Generous Gardeners, a non-profit organization, promotes philanthropy through gardening. They design and maintain more than 45 public garden spaces in Gloucester for you to enjoy. 

https://generousgardeners.org/

 

Cape Ann Museum Luncheon

Congratulations to the Cape Ann Museum for a very successful 12th Annual Luncheon, and thanks to special guest Stephanie Stebich, the Margaret and Terry Stent Director of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery, for an informative and motivational presentation to the many guests at the luncheon. 

The Cape Ann Museum is a tremendous institution and resource for all of us, and you can learn more about it at capeannmuseum.org

Salisbury Tree Lighting

Last night's Tree Lighting in Salisbury was a spectacular holiday event, with carolers dressed in victorian costume, a talented chorus from Salisbury Elementary School, and even artificial snowballs for friendly snowball fights! 

 

I was happy to join with Santa,  members of the Board of Selectmen - Chuck Takesian, Michael Colburn, and Ronalee Ray - Parrott - and the teams from the Chamber of Commerce and the Parks and Recreation Department ( led by Jennifer Roketenetz), and even the Grinch for this terrific holiday event. 

 

Thanks to everyone who made it possible for us to gather and celebrate the holiday season on such a special night!

Newburyport Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting

Holiday cheer and community spirit shone brightly through the cloudy skies and rain drops at the Newburyport Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting , with huge crowds welcoming Santa and Mrs Claus, cheering on the High School Band and Championship Soccer Team that pulled Santa's wagon with glee . 

I was happy to join Mayor Sean Reardon, former Representative Jim Kelcourse, and Representative- elect Dawne Shand in the parade, and for some singing with the crowd in Market Square before the lighting of the beautiful tree.

Thanks to the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce, the Newburyport Rotary Club, the crew of US Coast Guard Station Merrimack River, and all who worked to make such a wonderful afternoon possible.