ReportWire

Tag: Armed forces

  • Russia’s Ambitious Plans in Africa Are Unraveling

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    Russia, not long ago a rising military force in Africa, is now struggling to maintain its footprint on the continent.

    The Kremlin’s new official guns-for-hire military force, the Africa Corps, has failed to replicate the financial success and political sway once held by Russia’s private Wagner Group mercenary outfit. And some of Wagner’s own African ventures have unraveled since 2023 when its founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, rebelled against President Vladimir Putin and then died when an explosive device blew the wing off his plane at 28,000 feet. 

    Copyright ©2025 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

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    Benoit Faucon

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  • Denmark Says New Drone Flights Over Military Base, Airports Are ‘Hybrid Attack’

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    Denmark said it had suffered a hybrid attack by a professional actor after drones were observed over several airports late on Wednesday, the second time in less than a week that unmanned aircraft have disrupted air traffic in the Nordic nation, a NATO member.

    Drones were spotted over at least four airports in the western part of the country, including a military air base housing most of Denmark’s F-16 and F-35 jet fighters. 

    Copyright ©2025 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

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    Sune Engel Rasmussen

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  • Kenya Uses U.S.-Funded Antiterrorism Courts for Political Crackdown

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    NAIROBI, Kenya—The Kenyan government is using special antiterrorism courts—established with U.S. money to combat al Qaeda—to threaten political dissidents with decades in prison.

    Prosecutors have charged 75 Kenyans with terrorism in recent weeks, the majority for allegedly destroying government property during street demonstrations against President William Ruto.

    Copyright ©2025 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

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    Caroline Kimeu

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  • What federal laws could President Trump use to send troops to US cities?

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    What federal laws could President Trump use to send troops to US cities?

    Updated: 3:24 PM EDT Aug 26, 2025

    Editorial Standards ⓘ

    President Donald Trump indicated late last week that Chicago could be the next U.S. city targeted for a federal troop deployment, mirroring similar actions already taken in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.On Monday, Trump doubled down on the potential of sending the U.S. military to Chicago, though he stopped short of making any guarantees.”They need help. We may wait. We may or may not, we may just go in and do it, which is probably what we should do,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.The Washington Post reported over the weekend that the Trump administration has been working on plans for some time to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, possibly as early as September.The Trump administration has cited high levels of crime and lack of immigration enforcement as reasons for deploying federal troops. However, officials from D.C., Los Angeles and Chicago have pushed back against those claims and voiced strong opposition to Trump’s actions.“The guard is not needed,” Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson told NBC News. “This is not the role of our military. The brave men and women who signed up to serve our country did not sign up to occupy American cities.”Sending federal troops to Chicago would represent a significant escalation beyond the Trump administration’s earlier deployments in Los Angeles and D.C., pushing the limits of executive authority and inviting greater legal scrutiny. It could also lay the groundwork for Trump to send troops to other U.S. cities.Here’s a closer look at the federal laws at play and the legal arguments the Trump administration may use to uphold its deployment of federal troops to cities like Chicago.Title 10, Section 12406When considering the legal justifications for future troop deployments to cities like Chicago, Baltimore and New York, it’s best to begin with the Trump administration’s past actions.Washington, D.C., was the most recent place targeted, but its unique status as the capital means it’s unlikely to serve as a legal precedent for a nationwide rollout.Los Angeles, on the other hand, may offer a better roadmap.On June 7, Trump deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops in response to protests over his administration’s immigration policies. Shortly after, the number of Guard troops was increased to 4,100, plus approximately 700 Marines were also sent to the state.In a memo announcing the deployment, Trump invoked Title 10, Section 12406 of the U.S. Code, which states that the president can federalize National Guard units to repel an invasion, suppress a rebellion or enforce federal law.Video below: President Trump considers deploying armed National Guard to cities amid criticismAccording to Elizabeth Goitein, senior director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, it was the first time since 1965 that a president activated a state’s National Guard without the governor’s request.California subsequently sued Trump, arguing that the deployment of federal troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act, an 1878 federal law that generally prohibits the use of the U.S. military to enforce domestic law.The Trump administration has maintained that federal troops were not engaged in law enforcement, but were instead deployed to protect federal immigration personnel and property.A federal judge initially ruled in favor of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, stating that Trump must relinquish control of the National Guard back to the state. However, a week later, an appeals court overturned the ruling.The lawsuit went back to court earlier this month, but a new ruling has not been made.Looking toward Chicago, Baltimore and New York, Trump could attempt to invoke Section 12406 again, using claims of high crime rates or lack of cooperation with federal officials in immigration enforcement as justification. But, like California, the move would certainly be met with legal action.Insurrection Act of 1807Another route the Trump administration could take is to invoke the rarely used Insurrection Act of 1807.The 19th-century law serves as an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, giving the president the power to use the U.S. military to carry out domestic law enforcement duties.Like Section 12406 of Title 10, the Insurrection Act requires certain conditions to be met to justify its use, such as suppressing an insurrection, quelling domestic violence or enforcing civil rights. However, it is widely viewed as a more extreme measure, especially when used without a state’s consent.Additionally, Section 12406 only gives the president control of the National Guard, while the Insurrection Act extends to the entire armed forces. The act also authorizes those forces to engage in domestic law enforcement, including detaining civilians and controlling crowds. Section 12406 does not.According to the Brennan Center for Justice, the Insurrection Act has only been used 30 times in American history. Most recently, it was used in 1992, at the request of California’s governor, to respond to the Los Angeles riots. The last time it was used against the state’s wishes was during the 1950s and 1960s to enforce school desegregation and to protect civil rights marches.Trump has never officially invoked the Insurrection Act, though he has repeatedly threatened to do so. “If there’s an insurrection, I would certainly invoke it,” Trump said in June, regarding the situation in Los Angeles. “We’ll see … If we didn’t get involved right now, Los Angeles would be burning.”Some legal experts have questioned whether Trump’s past actions have already crossed the threshold, including his deployment of the Marines to Los Angeles, which isn’t explicitly protected by Section 12406, but does fall under the Insurrection Act’s powers.Ultimately, if Trump does invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops to cities like Chicago, Baltimore, or New York, it would almost assuredly be challenged in court.However, it’s important to note that the Supreme Court, in the 1827 case Martin v. Mott, ruled that the president has sole discretion to determine if conditions are met to invoke the Insurrection Act. It’s a judgment that courts have historically been reluctant to contest.

    President Donald Trump indicated late last week that Chicago could be the next U.S. city targeted for a federal troop deployment, mirroring similar actions already taken in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

    On Monday, Trump doubled down on the potential of sending the U.S. military to Chicago, though he stopped short of making any guarantees.

    “They need help. We may wait. We may or may not, we may just go in and do it, which is probably what we should do,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.

    The Washington Post reported over the weekend that the Trump administration has been working on plans for some time to deploy the National Guard to Chicago, possibly as early as September.

    The Trump administration has cited high levels of crime and lack of immigration enforcement as reasons for deploying federal troops. However, officials from D.C., Los Angeles and Chicago have pushed back against those claims and voiced strong opposition to Trump’s actions.

    “The guard is not needed,” Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson told NBC News. “This is not the role of our military. The brave men and women who signed up to serve our country did not sign up to occupy American cities.”

    Sending federal troops to Chicago would represent a significant escalation beyond the Trump administration’s earlier deployments in Los Angeles and D.C., pushing the limits of executive authority and inviting greater legal scrutiny. It could also lay the groundwork for Trump to send troops to other U.S. cities.

    Here’s a closer look at the federal laws at play and the legal arguments the Trump administration may use to uphold its deployment of federal troops to cities like Chicago.

    Title 10, Section 12406

    When considering the legal justifications for future troop deployments to cities like Chicago, Baltimore and New York, it’s best to begin with the Trump administration’s past actions.

    Washington, D.C., was the most recent place targeted, but its unique status as the capital means it’s unlikely to serve as a legal precedent for a nationwide rollout.

    Los Angeles, on the other hand, may offer a better roadmap.

    On June 7, Trump deployed 2,000 California National Guard troops in response to protests over his administration’s immigration policies. Shortly after, the number of Guard troops was increased to 4,100, plus approximately 700 Marines were also sent to the state.

    In a memo announcing the deployment, Trump invoked Title 10, Section 12406 of the U.S. Code, which states that the president can federalize National Guard units to repel an invasion, suppress a rebellion or enforce federal law.

    Video below: President Trump considers deploying armed National Guard to cities amid criticism

    According to Elizabeth Goitein, senior director of the Liberty and National Security Program at the Brennan Center for Justice, it was the first time since 1965 that a president activated a state’s National Guard without the governor’s request.

    California subsequently sued Trump, arguing that the deployment of federal troops violated the Posse Comitatus Act, an 1878 federal law that generally prohibits the use of the U.S. military to enforce domestic law.

    The Trump administration has maintained that federal troops were not engaged in law enforcement, but were instead deployed to protect federal immigration personnel and property.

    A federal judge initially ruled in favor of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, stating that Trump must relinquish control of the National Guard back to the state. However, a week later, an appeals court overturned the ruling.

    The lawsuit went back to court earlier this month, but a new ruling has not been made.

    Looking toward Chicago, Baltimore and New York, Trump could attempt to invoke Section 12406 again, using claims of high crime rates or lack of cooperation with federal officials in immigration enforcement as justification. But, like California, the move would certainly be met with legal action.

    Insurrection Act of 1807

    Another route the Trump administration could take is to invoke the rarely used Insurrection Act of 1807.

    The 19th-century law serves as an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, giving the president the power to use the U.S. military to carry out domestic law enforcement duties.

    Like Section 12406 of Title 10, the Insurrection Act requires certain conditions to be met to justify its use, such as suppressing an insurrection, quelling domestic violence or enforcing civil rights. However, it is widely viewed as a more extreme measure, especially when used without a state’s consent.

    Additionally, Section 12406 only gives the president control of the National Guard, while the Insurrection Act extends to the entire armed forces. The act also authorizes those forces to engage in domestic law enforcement, including detaining civilians and controlling crowds. Section 12406 does not.

    According to the Brennan Center for Justice, the Insurrection Act has only been used 30 times in American history. Most recently, it was used in 1992, at the request of California’s governor, to respond to the Los Angeles riots. The last time it was used against the state’s wishes was during the 1950s and 1960s to enforce school desegregation and to protect civil rights marches.

    Trump has never officially invoked the Insurrection Act, though he has repeatedly threatened to do so.

    “If there’s an insurrection, I would certainly invoke it,” Trump said in June, regarding the situation in Los Angeles. “We’ll see … If we didn’t get involved right now, Los Angeles would be burning.”

    Some legal experts have questioned whether Trump’s past actions have already crossed the threshold, including his deployment of the Marines to Los Angeles, which isn’t explicitly protected by Section 12406, but does fall under the Insurrection Act’s powers.

    Ultimately, if Trump does invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy troops to cities like Chicago, Baltimore, or New York, it would almost assuredly be challenged in court.

    However, it’s important to note that the Supreme Court, in the 1827 case Martin v. Mott, ruled that the president has sole discretion to determine if conditions are met to invoke the Insurrection Act. It’s a judgment that courts have historically been reluctant to contest.

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  • Peter Van Ness writes a new life chapter

    Peter Van Ness writes a new life chapter

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    Former Gloucester resident Peter Van Ness’s debut novel, a tech thriller called “The Faithful” has arrived, and it is very ambitious indeed.

    Van Ness, who now lives in Florida, says he has always been fascinated by the intersection of science and spirituality/religion. Add to that the confluence of 21st century technology, and you are inside the mind of John Welles, a brilliant and ambitious MIT graduate who is not just the central character but absolutely central to the novel, as much of the book takes place in his mind.

    We first meet John when, as a precocious and curious child, he questions the very existence of reality. Little John recalls in a first-person introductory narrative that he observes the world as a place he can only think to call “pretend.” He can escape it by entering a secret portal in the hallway into infinity where he can time travel at will.

    As the son of a prominent Presbyterian minister, Van Ness himself developed an early interest in spirituality and religion, and their link to the metaphysical. Likewise, as a natural math whiz, science was second nature to him. His mind, he says, was ready made for the 21st century, and his tech resume began in high school when he programed computers connected to the ARPANET, the first operational computer network that became the foundation of the modern internet. Later, he’d go on to co-found a software company “that made his investors rich.”

    Anyone who knows Van Ness from his entrepreneurial 25 years in Gloucester, knows he marches to his own drum. He skipped college, and became a student of world religions, with a special inclination toward Buddhism.

    All of this — science, technology, religion, spirituality, mysticism, not to mention Van Ness’s passion for music — comes home to roost in “The Faithful,” as John’s tech brilliance gets him and his equally brilliant girlfriend Emily swept up in a struggle between two opposing secret religious sects, the Faithful versus the Disciples.

    Van Ness describes “The Faithful” sect as representing those wanting “to protect people from all the dangers of the world. They are absolutely sure they are right and committed to their mission, whatever it takes.” The Disciples, on the other hand, “are endlessly curious, seek adventure … constantly question whether they are doing the right thing, and are always adjusting their plans to adapt to current conditions.”

    When John and Emily stumble upon evidence of an undiscovered energy field that is, to make a long story short, the key to life itself, they become targets of an ensuing Dan Brownish conspiracy reminiscent of a high tech “The Da Vinci Code,” plunging the reader “into the minds and psyches of the couple as they each embark on a personal journey of self-discovery.”

    Ten years in the writing, “The Faithful” evolved with today’s rapidly changing technology and came to include new advances in artificial intelligence. Suffice to say, this is not a tale for tech luddites. But is you are a 21st century digital citizen, then fasten your seatbelts, you’re in for a ride.

    Tech aside, at its heart, “The Faithful” remains deeply humanitarian, even romantic. John, like Van Ness himself, loves music, and music weaves its magic throughout “The Faithful.” John hears it in everything, including the glug, glug, glug of fine wine decanting. Then there is “the maestro” — a beloved conductor revered by his musical students, one of whom is John. Van Ness creates in the relationship between the maestro and his students what sounded to this reader as a metaphor for the relationship between the all-seeing God orchestrating life itself.

    Van Ness, who, with his wife Vicky, was well known in Gloucester as a mover and shaker in downtown community creative and cultural initiatives. From the summer block parties to Discover Gloucester, they were on the launching pads. But they were best known as promoters of local live music. As founders of Gimme Music and Beverly’s “intimate listening room” 9 Wallis, they were — until the COVID-19 pandemic hit — major players on the North Shore’s live music scene.

    One door closes, another opens. In his new home in Florida, Van Ness says he loves swimming daily in the ocean. and as anyone who knows him will not be surprised to hear, in between riding the waves, he’s already writing a sequel. Stay tuned.

    Joann Mackenzie may be contacted at 978-675-2707 or jmackenzie@northofboston.com.

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    By Joann Mackenzie | Staff Writer

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  • State police plan weekend sobriety checkpoint

    State police plan weekend sobriety checkpoint

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    Col. John E. Mawn Jr., superintendent of Massachusetts State Police, said a “sobriety checkpoint” will be implemented on a public way in Essex County this weekend.

    The purpose is to further educate drivers and strengthen the public’s awareness of the need for detecting and removing those motorists who operate under the influence of alcohol and, or, drugs from the roadways.

    It will be operated during varied hours Saturday into Sunday. The selection of vehicles will not be arbitrary, safety will be assured, and any inconveniences to motorists will be minimized with advance notice to reduce fear and anxiety, Mawn said in a release.

    The checkpoint is made possible through a grant provided by the Office of Grants and Research of the state Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.

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  • Extended marine forecast

    Extended marine forecast

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    Forecast for coastal waters east of Ipswich Bay and the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.

    Wednesday: South winds around 10 knots. Seas around 2 feet. Wave detail: Southwest 2 feet at 4 seconds and east 2 feet at 8 seconds.

    Wednesday night: South winds 5 to 10 knots. Seas around 2 feet. Wave detail: South 2 feet at 3 seconds and east 2 feet at 9 seconds. A chance of showers after midnight.

    Thursday: East winds 5 to 10 knots. Gusts up to 20 knots in the afternoon. Seas 2 to 4 feet. Wave detail: East 3 feet at 9 seconds and southeast 2 feet at 3 seconds. A chance of showers.

    Thursday night: Northeast winds 10 to 15 knots with gusts up to 20 knots. Seas 3 to 4 feet. Wave detail: Southeast 4 feet at 9 seconds and east 3 feet at 9 seconds. A chance of showers in the evening.

    Friday and Friday night: Northeast winds 10 to 15 knots with gusts up to 20 knots. Seas 3 to 5 feet. Wave detail: Southeast 5 feet at 9 seconds.

    Saturday through Sunday night: Northeast winds 10 to 15 knots with gusts up to 20 knots. Seas 4 to 5 feet.

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  • Peabody corner named in honor of missing WWII airman

    Peabody corner named in honor of missing WWII airman

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    PEABODY — Sgt. Walter Dombrowski was on patrol over the Pacific Ocean during World War II when his B-17 ran out of fuel. While most on board would survive the plane crashing into the sea, Dombroski, a 28-year-old Peabody native, would never be seen again.

    On Saturday, his family and local veterans dedicated a permanent marker of his service and sacrifice in front of his childhood home at 111 Central St. — 81 years after his final flight, and on the 40th anniversary of the Polish Legion of American Veterans Post 63 named in his honor.

    “This street is home to some of our most vulnerable residents in the city: our seniors,” Peabody Veterans Agent Steve Patten said at the corner of Wilson Terrace and Central Street, now named in Dombrowski’s honor.

    “He went down while on patrol. He’s still on patrol, he’s still watching over,” Patten said, pointing to the new black and bronze sign bearing Dombrowski’s name. “And he’s doing it right where his family lived. God bless, buddy.”

    Dombrowski was one of the thousands of servicemembers to be declared missing in action during World War II.

    He was born in Peabody in 1913 to Joseph and Anna (Sobocinski) Dobrowski and enlisted in the U.S. Air Corps in 1940. After serving stateside, he was transferred to the 360th Bomber Squadron, 303rd Heavy Bomber Group at Hickam Field, Hawaii, in 1942.

    On June 15, 1942, Dombrowski and eight other crewmen boarded a B-17 at Hickam Field to patrol the Pacific, just days after the Battle of Midway and seven months after their plane and its pilot survived the Dec. 7, 1941, attacks on Pearl Harbor.

    The crew eventually lost track of their position and, low on fuel, ditched the plane around 9 p.m. about 130 miles from their base.

    Seven of the crewmembers were able to escape the plane as it went down and successfully deployed a life raft. But the top hatch failed to open for Dombrowski, serving as the plane’s radioman, and gunner Pvt. Walter Dutkiewicz of New Jersey.

    The seven crew members would be found by the Navy and Army Air Force during a rescue mission and survive, but not Dutkiewicz and Dombrowski. They were declared dead that day and remain missing in action.

    Their names are memorialized at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at the Punchbowl Crater in Honolulu.

    “Not only did Sgt. Dombrowski give up his life, but he gave up his future and everything that would have come from that,” Patten said. “His children, their children. Little League games, spending time with family and friends and loved ones at the holidays: he gave up everything.”

    Dombrowksi’s nephew, Walter Doblecki, was born in September 1942 and named in his honor. Despite never knowing his uncle, Doblecki has always felt a strong tie to him, he said at Post 63’s 40th anniversary luncheon ceremony at the Portuguese American War Vets post on Tremont Street ahead of Saturday’s dedication.

    “Growing up, my Aunt Teresa always seemed to be exceptionally warm and friendly toward me,” Doblecki said. “Looking back, I think I reminded her of her brother Walter, and the joyful youth that she shared with Walter and my mother Wanda.”

    Doblecki was joined by other nieces and nephews of Dombrowski Saturday, including Peabody Ward 4 City Councilor Julie Daigle, Dombrowski’s great-niece.

    “Walter Dombrowski was the brother of my grandmother Teresa Rydzewski, so this is extra special, but either way I appreciate Walter (Blazewicz Jr.) recognizing our veterans and the people that have served in our community, in our culture,” Daigle said. “Thank you for continuing to keep that alive.”

    Blazewicz started Post 63 in 1984 and is the current commander. Rydzewski was the first president of the post’s Ladies Auxiliary Chapter and a member until her death in 2012.

    Blazewicz and his wife, Ann, were the main organizers behind Saturday’s events. They were joined by fellow members, other area veterans organizations and State Sen. Joan Lovely, State. Rep. Tom Walsh and Peabody City Council President Stephanie Peach.

    It was a “great feeling” seeing a hall filled with veterans celebrating his post, Blazewicz said.

    “I am proud of this post’s record of service to our community and nation, but the success of this post is not due to my organizational skills,” he said. “A successful post needs consistent hard work and diligent efforts by dedicated members to enable it to achieve success.”

    That’s been the case for Post 63. Even so, its membership, and the number of veterans posts around the North Shore, is dwindling alongside the number of WWII, Korea and Vietnam vets still alive.

    Robert Dunne, commander of the Peabody Veterans’ Council and senior vice commander of Post 63, said Saturday he hopes younger veterans of all types of service will step in to keep these groups afloat.

    “These organizations are our advocates. They’re the ones who go to legislators and say, ‘Hey, we need more medical services, we need to have PTSD coverage,” he said.

    “They’re more than just organizations people go to hangout and discuss what they did when they were in service.”

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    By Caroline Enos | Staff Writer

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  • Cahill touts financial strength in State of City address

    Cahill touts financial strength in State of City address

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    BEVERLY — Mayor Mike Cahill used his annual State of the City address this week to highlight accomplishments and to reiterate that the city is in a strong financial position.






    Mike Cahill




    In a 30-minute speech at City Hall, Cahill said the city has built up reserves of over $30 million over the last decade — money that can be used to keep the city running smoothly in the event of an economic downturn.

    “Our reserves are meant to get us through a recession when revenues fall precipitously and to do so without wholesale layoffs and drastic deep cuts to critical services,” Cahill said.

    “These reserves are not meant to be used to outspend still strong and growing revenues during good economic times,” he added. “They are meant to help us keep delivering the services people need and rely on right through the worst economic times and through economic recovery from those bad times.”

    In his speech in front of the City Council on Monday night, Cahill ran down the accomplishments of each city department, calling it “a great year in Beverly.”

    Highlights mentioned by Cahill included:

    – The hiring of the first woman as city engineer, Lisa Chandler

    – Progress on upcoming traffic projects like a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Brimbal Avenue and Dunham Road, a traffic signal at the intersection of Corning, Essex and Spring streets, and the Bridge Street reconstruction project

    – Daily visits to the Senior Center are up 63%

    – Over 150,000 people visited the library

    – Two new parks on Simon Street will be completed this summer

    – New tennis courts will be built at Centerville and Cove playgrounds

    – A major renovation of Holcroft Park will begin this summer

    – The city’s senior tax workoff program has grown from 50 to over 90 seniors

    – The city will launch its first Beverly Youth Council for young people to learn more about local government and advocate for youth issues

    – The Fire Department has ordered a new pumper truck, which will replace Engine 1 in Central Fire Station when it arrives

    – Five new civilian dispatchers have been hired for the combined civilian, emergency medical services, police and fire dispatch system, with the goal to be “fully civilian” by fall, freeing up uniformed police officers to serve out in the community

    – The city’s veterans department prevented the eviction of three veterans from their houses

    – The city received 73 of the 80 grants it applied for over the last fiscal year, bringing in over $5 million in revenue

    – The mayor’s office launched an iPad translation program for visitors to City Hall whose primary language is not English

    – Four applications have been submitted under the city’s new accessory dwelling unit ordinance

    – The Salem Skipper rideshare program expanded into Beverly starting May 1

    – The city’s community garden has moved from Cole Street to Moraine Farm, and garden plots are still available for this season

    – The city’s electricity aggregation program started on May 1, providing residents and businesses with lower electricity costs while increasing the amount of clean renewable energy

    – Coastal resiliency projects at Lynch Park and Obear Park are in the design and permitting phase

    – Beverly Airport had its most flights since 2003 and is planning to rebuild its main runway

    Cahill closed by thanking the city’s department heads and staff for their work.

    “Thanks in significant part to their contributions, the state of our city remains strong,” he said to the City Council. “With their partnership and with yours, I know the state of our city will improve and become ever stronger well into the future.”

    Staff Writer Paul Leighton can be reached at 978-338-2535, by email at pleighton@salemnews.com, or on Twitter at @heardinbeverly.

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    By Paul Leighton | Staff Writer

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  • Police/Fire

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    In news taken from the logs of Cape Ann’s police and fire departments:

    GLOUCESTER

    Sunday, May 5

    10:02 p.m.: A crash with property damage only was reported on Washington and Mansfield streets.

    5:16 p.m.: Police took a report of child abuse.

    4:23 p.m.: Trash dumping was reported on Eastern Point Boulevard. A pile of cutup posts and lumber dumped in a pile off to the side of a back driveway was discovered in a homeowner’s backyard. The homeowner gave a description of a man he had confronted on his property. The man told the homeowner he was “just checking the place out,” the report said. The homeowner said the man appeared to be acting suspiciously and he believed he was casing the home. The man then walked down the driveway and left. The homeowner did not see if he got into a vehicle. A neighbor did not see anything. Police planned to check with Eastern Point security to review footage to identify the man and a possible vehicle.

    3:15 p.m.: Police planned to file a criminal complaint against a 61-year-old New Hampshire woman on a charge of assault and battery on a police officer at the Rockport Police Department where people are held in custody with the Gloucester Police Department presently under renovations. 

    1:03 p.m.: Police provided mutual aid to Manchester police on Summer Street.

    5:59 a.m.: A hypodermic needle was retrieved from Commercial Street and dispose of safely.

    Saturday, May 4

    7:32 p.m.: Police assisted the Fire Department with a medical emergency.

    Crashes with property damage only reported on Grant Circle on Washington Street at 11:02 a.m., Washington and Addison streets at 3:03 p.m., Washington and Poplar streets at 4:02 p.m., Market Basket on Gloucester Crossing Road at 4:44 p.m., Elm Street at 5:53 p.m., andon Walker Street at 7:16 p.m. 

    Fire Department was assisted with calls from Walker Street at 2:05 p.m. and from McPherson Park on Prospect Street at 6:25 p.m.

    5:03 p.m.: Loitering was reported at Walgreens on Main Street.

    2:34 p.m.: Police responded to a disturbance on Essex Avenue.

    9:12 a.m.: A crash with injuries was reported at 54 Eastern Ave. Police planned to file a criminal complaint against a 53-year-old Gloucester man on charges of driving with a suspended license, negligent operation and a marked lanes violation. A vehicle was towed from the scene.

    9:07 a.m.: Debris was reported on Addison Street.

    7:11 a.m.: No action was required for a report of credit card fraud from Heights at Cape Ann.

    1:11 a.m.: As a result of a report of a suspicious motor vehicle at the Man at the Wheel statue on Stacy Boulevard and Western Avenue, police arrested a 61-year-old resident of Bow, New Hampshire, on charges of driving under the influence of drugs, disorderly conduct and negligent operation of a motor vehicle. Police arrived to find the vehicle parked on the boulevard in the center of the Fisherman’s Memorial, between the Man at the Wheel statue and the cenotaphs — the granite blocks and bronze plaques —and the railing. Police found the driver with her eyes closed, swaying her head side to side, and mumbling to herself. When ordered to put the car in park and shut it off, the woman at first refused, but eventually did so, th police  report said. The woman said she was on her way to New Hampshire from Logan Airport in Boston and decided to come to Gloucester “to speak with the ocean,” the report said. The woman became agitated as an officer asked her questions. She reportedly jumped out of her vehicle in an angry manner, telling police she could park somewhere else and there was no reason for them to be there. An officer informed the woman he had never seen a person park a vehicle in this manner in the 32 years he has lived in Gloucester. Police then asked her to submit to field sobriety tests, and after jumping up on the granite blocks and showing signs of impairment during two of the tests, police arrested her on a charge of disorderly conduct. The officer concluded the woman was driving under the influence of drugs, the report said. Police requested the vehicle be towed and saw fresh damage on both its sides. Police did not locate illegal drugs in the vehicle, but found the driver’s prescription for lorazepam. Police filed an immediate threat for her right to drive in Massachusetts.

    Friday, May 3

    9:14 p.m.: Police planned to file a criminal complaint with a charge of trespassing against a 49-year-old Gloucester resident of no known address. Police were dispatched for a report of a man sitting on the railroad tracks off Dory Road and refusing to move so that the inbound train could pass. While police were heading there, dispatch informed responding officers that witnesses said the man was walking toward the Cleveland Street crossing but was still on the tracks. Police walked the tracks about a half mile approaching the train but were unable to locate anyone on the tracks. The train engineer and conductor described the man as tall, balding with curly hair on the sides and wearing a red sweatshirt. This description matched that of a man police had escorted off the tracks in the same location the day before. Police eventually caught up with the man. Police reminded him of their prior conversation regarding trespassing on the tracks. He told police he has nothing to do and his family has always walked the tracks. He was not trying to harm himself, he was just bored, he told police, who told the man the tracks are posted as “No Trespassing,” and that they would be charging him for trespassing.

    Crashes with property damage only reported at the Blackburn Rotary at 2:13 p.m., and on Pirates Lane at 5:38 p.m.

    1:51 p.m.: Trash dumping was reported on Elm Street. A caller reported trash that has been put out a week in advance.

    10:40 a.m.: A 54-year-old Gloucester resident was arrested on an active warrant for a restraining order violation. The man was taken into custody after a motor-vehicle stop of a white Ford truck on Poplar Street and Bertoni Road. The man was taken to Peabody District Court.

    10:04 a.m.: A disabled vehicle was reported on Hesperus and Western avenues.

    7:42 a.m.: A report of annoying phone calls was under investigation. The log refers to charges being sought.

    ROCKPORT

    Monday, May 6

    Noon: The Fire Department was dispatched to a Drumlin Road address.

    Sunday, May 5

    2:48 p.m.: A medical emergency ambulance transport was conducted from a Main Street address.

    8:13 a.m.: The Fire Department was dispatched to a Granite Street address.

    Saturday, May 4

    Medical emergencies: Individuals were taken to the hospital by ambulance from the intersection of Beach and Main Streets at 10:36 a.m., the intersection of Thatcher Road and Tregony Bow at 11:19 a.m., the intersection of Thatcher Road and Highview Road at 11:34 a.m., and a Main Street address at 2:03 p.m.

    ESSEX

    Monday, May 6

    7:36 p.m.: A police investigation was conducted at a Pond Street address.

    7:27 p.m.: An ambulance transport was conducted from the intersection of Apple Street and Western Avenue.

    5:01 p.m.: A report was made about a motor vehicle crash on John Wise Avenue.

    1:17 p.m.: A report was made about a motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

    Sunday, May 5

    5:38 p.m.: After a report of an injury, a medical ambulance transport was refused at a Western Avenue address.

    9:56 a.m.: A medical ambulance transport was conducted from a Sagamore Circle address.

    Saturday, May 4

    7:29 a.m.: A request was made about a public utility on Martin Street.

    MANCHESTER

    Monday, May 6

    11:07 p.m.: Suspicious activity was reported on Ancient County Way at 9:59 p.m., at the intersection of Pine and Pleasant Streets at10:20 p.m., and at the Pine Street Fields at 11:07 p.m.

    4:53 p.m.: After a motor vehicle stop at the intersection of Pine Street and Parsons Lane, a written warning was issued.

    4:34 p.m.: A complaint was made about an animal on Allen Avenue.

    2:46 p.m.: A report was made about lost and found property at a Central Street address.

    1:53 p.m.: A report was made about a motor vehicle crash on Jersey Lane.

    1:48 p.m.: A community policing event was attended to at a Lincoln Street address.

    1:27 p.m.: A report of a structure fire was confirmed at a Boardman Avenue address. “It was just contained to an oven,” said Lt. Robert Cavender. “It was out before we even got there. It was just a small oven fire contained to the oven.”

    1:17 p.m.: Acomplaint about noise at the intersection of Sea and Summer Streets was lodged.

    8:27 a.m.: A transport was conducted at a Central Street address.

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  • Man seriously injured in Derry explosion

    Man seriously injured in Derry explosion

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    DERRY — A man was seriously injured in a fiery explosion at a Chases Grove Road home Sunday night.

    The unidentified man, who suffered potentially life-threatening injuries, was pulled from the burning home at 607 Chases Grove Road by bystanders shortly before 7:40 p.m., according to Battalion Chief Ryan Bump of the Derry Fire Department.

    Firefighters from 12 communities responded to the blaze, which took nearly an hour to bring under control.   

    As firefighters from Derry and other communities fought the flames, emergency personnel from the Salem and Londonderry fire departments treated the injured man and transported him to an area hospital, Bump said in a release. 

    The Derry Fire Communications Center received multiple calls reporting an explosion and fire in the 784-square-foot manufactured home but none of the callers knew if anyone was inside the burning building, he said.

    Firefighters arrived only four minutes later to find half the residence engulfed in flames and to learn the man had been pulled to safety. At the same time that Derry’s Engine 2 responded, the department’s Engine 1 and Medic 1 were responding to another emergency call, Bump said.  

    The fire was declared under control at 8:35 p.m. but its cause remains under investigation. The state Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting Derry with the investigation due to the seriousness of the man’s injuries and the complexity of the fire scene, the battalion chief said.

    Along with Salem and Londonderry, fire crews also responded from Hampstead, Plaistow, Atkinson, Windham, Hudson, Manchester, Nashua, Auburn and Chester. The Derry Fire Department also received assistance from the town Police Department and the Derry Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

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  • Area police news

    Area police news

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    BeverlyTuesday

    Officers were sent to Mechanic Street where they restored the peace after a disturbance.

    An ambulance was sent to Federal Street at 7:05 p.m., and another to Pratt Avenue at 9:01 p.m., to transport separate individuals to the hospital.

    Police were sent to the intersection of Essex and Winter streets at 10:41 p.m. to restore peace after a disturbance.

    Wednesday

    Police responded to Hale Street at Prides Crossing for a motor vehicle accident with property damage only.

    An officer was sent to Manor Road at 9:29 a.m. to report on a recent incident of vandalism.

    A call to assist a citizen brought police to Foster’s Point at 2:57 p.m. An ambulance was dispatched, and the person was transported to the hospital.

    PeabodyWednesday

    Police and an ambulance were sent to Peabody Shell, 85 Lynnfield St., at 6:46 a.m. for a hit-and-run motor vehicle accident. The operator was evaluated by Atlantic Ambulance and refused treatment.

    A two-vehicle accident brought police to the intersection of Beckett and Sutton streets for an accident without injuries. Both vehicles were towed, and one operator was summoned to court for unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.

    An ambulance was dispatched to the McVann O’Keefe Rink, 511 Lowell St., at 11:16 a.m. for a fall with a head strike. The patient was transported to Salem Hospital.

    Police were sent to an apartment at 50 Warren St. for a dispute over stolen medication. Two people, a man and a woman, were arrested and transported to Peabody District Court. The 45-year-old Malden man was charged with two counts of possessing a Class E drug and with larceny under $1,200; and the 57-year-old Peabody woman was charged with distributing a Class E drug.

    Police stopped a vehicle at 12:44 p.m. in the vicinity of 1 Lake Street and transported the 42-year-old Peabody male to Peabody District Court to face three charges: unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, driving an uninsured vehicle and driving an unregistered motor vehicle.

    A Forest Street woman called police at 1:53 p.m. to report that her goat had been stolen.

    Police were called to the intersection of Northend Street and Kenwood Road at 2:52 p.m. for a two-vehicle accident with an airbag deployment, a possible head injury, and fluids were leaking from the vehicle. Both vehicles were towed and one operator was cited for failure to yield. There was no hospital transport.

    A caller from 48 Washington St. called police to report her home had been burglarized. The officer reported there was no issue; window had fallen off.

    Police stopped a vehicle on Lynnfield Street at 5:25 p.m. after a caller reported a gray Jeep driving all over the road before hitting a pole in the vicinity of Bartholomew Street. Police located the vehicle and arrested the operator, a 31-year-old Salem man. He was charged with drunken driving and with leaving the scene of a property-damage accident.

    Police were called to DBVS, 79 Lynnfield St., for a vehicle parked in the fire lane. Arrington Tow was called, and the operator, a 39-year-old Peabody man will be summoned to court for operating an unregistered motor vehicle, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and for driving on a suspended license.

    A cruiser was sent to the Cabaret Lounge, 96 Newbury St., for a female who had called 911 at 11:53 p.m. to request a ride home. The caller disconnected and operator attempted to call back. On the first attempt, there was no answer and a voicemail was left. The second callback reached a crying female who said she wants to go home and declined medical services. On third callback attempt, the caller said she was crying because she had no way of getting home. She disconnected. The responding officer said the female is going home with the male party she came with.

    Thursday

    An officer was called to Route 128 north for a three-vehicle hit-run accident without injuries or hazards. The officer reported it was not an accident, it was a road-rage incident. The officer summoned the operator of Mass. license plate #49NCF49 for an attempted assault witnessed by the owner/operator of Mass. 9CF571 against the operator of Mass. #4NVM54. The officer attempted to contact the operator at a Peabody address, but the vehicle was not there. The officer spoke with a male who said he believes it was another family member operating the vehicle and he provided the name of the person, a 64-year-old Peabody male, and he was summoned to court on an assault charge.

    Salem

    Tuesday

    Police were called to 91 Lafayette St. at 4 p.m. to report on a larceny.

    An officer was called to 22 High St. at 5:02 p.m. to settle a dispute.

    Police went to 40 Leggs Hill Road at 5:28 p.m. to handle a juvenile issue.

    A report of being threatened brought police to 124 Boston St. at 6:51 p.m.

    Officers were sent to 227 Highland Ave. at 7:25 p.m. to settle a disturbance.

    Police stopped a vehicle at 8:42 p.m. in the vicinity of Loring Avenue and Station Road, and after a brief investigation, they arrested 33-year-old Salem man and charged him with disorderly conduct.

    Police reported at 11:29 p.m. that a person had been threatened in the vicinity of 259 Highland Ave.

    Wednesday

    An officer was sent to 30 Walter St. at 9:03 a.m. in response to a holdup or panic alarm. It was unfounded.

    At 11:34 a.m., Police arrested a 32-year-old homeless Salem man on an outstanding warrant after a traffic stop in the vicinity of 220 Highland Ave.

    The report of a shoplifting brought police to 250 Highland Ave. at 3:05 p.m.

    Danvers

    Tuesday

    Police were sent to Cemetery Road at 4:33 p.m. to assist Middleton and Peabody in a police chase.

    Officers were called to MB Spirits, 139 Endicott St. at 5:42 p.m. in response to a business alarm indicating a holdup at the left register.

    Police were sent to 2 Old Stonewall Ave. at 10:10 p.m. to check for a rider mower. Area search was negative.

    Wednesday

    An officer was sent to the vicinity of 125 High St. to check the well-being of an elderly male wearing a red jacket.

    Officers were called to the Liberty Tree Mall, 100 Independence Way, at 12:18 p.m. for an intoxicated male. The 36-year-old Danvers male was placed into protective custody until he sobered up.

    An officer was sent too 345 Locust St. at 1:07 p.m. for the larceny of a chicken.

    A Kirkbride resident notified police at 1:21 p.m. of a lost or stolen New Hampshire temporary license plate.

    A case of road rage was reported at 2:13 p.m. from the vicinity of the Thompson house, 160 Water St.

    Marblehead

    Tuesday

    Four officers were sent to the intersection of Spring and Elm streets at 1:14 a.m. for a motor vehicle stop. After a brief records check, they arrested a 47-year-old Salem man. He was charged with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and operating an unregistered motor vehicle.

    Three officers, fire and an ambulance were dispatched to the intersection of Creesy and Green streets at 6:57 a.m. for a motor vehicle crash. One person was transported to the hospital and a driver was cited. The log neglected to indicate how many vehicles were involved.

    An officer was sent to State Street at 10:38 a.m., to investigate a larceny, forgery or fraud.

    Two officers were sent to Baldwin Road at 1:04 p.m. in response to a burglar alarm.

    Two officers responded to a burglar alarm at 10:22 p.m. on Longview Drive, but it was a false alarm.

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  • Healey signs off on migrant funding, reforms

    Healey signs off on migrant funding, reforms

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    BOSTON — Gov. Maura Healey has approved a plan to pump hundreds of millions of dollars in additional funding into the state’s beleaguered emergency shelter system, which has been overwhelmed by a historic surge of asylum seekers.

    Healey signed a supplemental budget late Tuesday that will divert $251 million into the shelter system and to cover housing, food and other migrant costs. The plan would also authorize a transfer another $175 million from an escrow account set up to cover emergency housing costs, if needed.

    The spending bill also reforms the state’s emergency shelter system, limiting migrants to nine months beginning on June 1, with up to two, 90-day extensions for those who are employed or participating in a work-training program or are a veteran or pregnant woman, among other situations.

    Healey said the spending plan “dedicates resources to balance the budget and maintain critical services and programs” and sets limits on stays in shelters, “which is a responsible step to address our capacity and fiscal constraints as Congress has continued to fail to act on immigration reform.”

    “We will be finalizing details of this policy in the coming weeks and ensuring that families and providers are informed of the requirements and the services that we have available to help them secure work and stable housing,” the Democrat said in a statement.

    The spending bill was approved by the House and Senate in a largely party line vote, with Republicans opposed to the changes. It comes only months after Healey signed another bill that included $250 million for migrant costs. To date, the state has spent an estimated $700 million on migrant costs.

    Democrats who pushed the spending bills through both chambers on largely partisan votes argue that the additional funding and reforms are aimed at preventing a collapse of the state’s beleaguered shelter system.

    Republicans have argued that record spending on emergency shelter will crowd out education spending and other priorities in the upcoming budget, with the state’s revenue benchmarks coming in below projections for several months.

    Massachusetts is wrestling with a record influx of thousands of migrants over the past year amid a historic surge of immigration along the U.S.-Mexico border.

    Healey declared a state of emergency in August and deployed the National Guard to help deal with the influx. Her administration also set a 7,500-family cap on the number of people eligible for emergency housing last October. Hundreds of families are currently on a waiting list for housing.

    The governor has set new restrictions on migrants and other homeless families who are being housed at large-scale “overflow” sites that were set up in response to the shortage of beds in state-run shelters.

    Under the new rules, which went into effect on Wednesday, migrant families staying in those sites will be required to document every month that they are searching for work and permanent housing or risk being denied shelter.

    Healey has estimated the state will spend nearly $1 billion to support emergency shelter for homeless families and migrants over the next year.

    Despite requests from Healey and members of the state’s congressional delegation for federal funding, the Biden administration has only provided about $2 million to the state for emergency shelter and other migrant needs.

    In a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, asked the federal agency to grant a waiver to the state for expedited work authorization for migrants “in the absence of significant financial or structural assistance” from Congress or the White House.

    Healey said the state has been able to secure work authorization for nearly 3,600 migrants to date but continues to see an “unabating influx” of new arrivals.

    “We need more federal assistance to support these families and connect them with job opportunities,” she wrote. “These immigrants are ready to joint the workforce and we need to support them in the process.”

    Christian M. Wade covers the Massachusetts Statehouse for North of Boston Media Group’s newspapers and websites. Email him at cwade@cnhinews.com.

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    By Christian M. Wade | Statehouse Reporter

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  • Andover voters approve MBTA zoning

    Andover voters approve MBTA zoning

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    ANDOVER — Voters approved a zoning district on Tuesday that allows for the potential construction of up to 2,121 multifamily housing units.

    Only a day after more than 900 voters turned out Monday for the first day of Town Meeting, the state-mandated district was approved 434-196.

    To combat the housing crisis, the state passed a law in 2021 mandating that communities with MBTA transit stations or station located nearby create a zoning district that promotes the construction of multifamily housing, with the added requirement that 50% of the housing capacity must fall within a half mile of a transit station.

    Creating zoning for the units does not necessarily mean they would be built. Developers would still need to meet regulations; the town would just have less discretion to deny projects, according to planning officials. The district, crafted over the last three years, spreads the density over three sections of town – downtown, Ballardvale and the area off River Road near Old River Road.

    The proposed district was debated Tuesday night on the Town Meeting floor at Andover High School, but few voters lined up to oppose the measure.

    “Andover is aging and we need good housing that makes it possible for young people to live in town,” she said.

    Other residents were concerned about how the new zoning might change the town.

    “I moved to Andover because it is not densely populated,” said Mike Tompkins. “Andover would not be the first town to vote against this overreach.”

    The new district could be formally created relatively soon. The plan will now be sent to the state Attorney General’s Office, which has 90 days to approve the new zoning.

    The section of the district off River Road has sparked some concern since there is little infrastructure there. The area is dominated by parking lots, corporate buildings, restaurants and a hotel.

    “The river district aims to transform the area into a vibrant village-like feel,” said Jennifer Lemmerman, who chairs the volunteer group that drew up the district proposal.

    The location is not within a half mile of a MBTA transit station for the commuter rail line, though it does have a bus stop.

    The downtown zone would allow for up to 1,234 units with 119 in Ballardvale and 768 off River Road. The zone would allow for a unit density of up to 23.2 units per acre, with 17 units per acre for Ballardvale and 39 units per acre for the River Road area.

    Select Board Chair Melissa Danisch said the district is a “measured and thoughtful response” to the state’s requirement.

    “Reflects that fellow residents were listening,” she said.

    Danisch also spoke of the millions of dollars in the grants the town could lose if it does not comply with the law.

    State Sen. Barry Finegold, who received the opportunity to vote on MBTA zoning for the second time, also voiced his support.

    “I did vote for this because it is the right thing to do,” he said. “It has become impossible to afford to come to this community.”

    The proposed district has been well-received by officials. It would boost growth in town and pave the way for more private investment in infrastructure, they said.

    Some residents have voiced concerns that having more people in town would put a greater strain on school services. School and planning officials have said that would not necessarily be the case with enrollment more heavily tied to turnover of current housing stock rather than the construction of new units.

    The district would allow for up to 2,121 housing units – 90 more than previously allowed. Officials have said the state recommends a small buffer.

    A map of the districts can be found at andoverma.gov/1069/Multifamily-Overlay-District.

    A commuter rail line snakes through town and has stations in Ballardvale and the downtown.

    The state law was met with a mixed response from community officials around the state. Not complying with the law could carry serious consequences.

    In addition to the potential loss of grants, municipalities could also face legal action. Milton is being sued by the state after its residents chose to vote against a proposed district.

    At Town Meeting, one resident advocated for only approving the district once the legality of the state requirement was settled through the lawsuit.

    Andover had until the end of this year to approve the district or face consequences from the state.

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    By Teddy Tauscher | ttauscher@eagletribune.com

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  • Daisy reports for duty, makes splash in Manchester-by-Sea

    Daisy reports for duty, makes splash in Manchester-by-Sea

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    MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Daisy, the newest hire at the Manchester-by-the-Sea Police Department, has already made her mark.

    The 5-month-old female, yellow Labrador retriever reported for duty April 17. She’s partnered with Officer Andrea Locke, the department’s school resource officer.

    Daisy will live with Locke, her husband, her two children and the family dog, Rudy.

    “She is adapting,” Locke said. “We’re just working on basic commands so far. She barks but she’s right at home. She’s very calm and loves people.”

    Daisy’s job will be to provide general support for Manchester Essex Regional School District students, faculty and staff, and for the town’s senior citizens.

    She’ll also serve as a “department ambassador” in the downtown area, including Masconomo Park, especially during community events.

    “While a comfort dog can create positive interactions within a community, it also can greatly assist with our public safety work,” Police Chief Todd Fitzgerald said. “A dog can be a calming influence when we meet with a child victim or witness, provide a sense of comfort during a mental health intervention, and reduce the stress felt by residents during a critical incident.”

    Fitzgerald described Daisy as having a “great temperament.”

    “That’s what they’re bred for,” he said. “It’s not only for the schools, but for the elderly, too. So far, it has worked out well.”

    Training for Daisy will take place for two weeks, starting the second week of July at Professional Canine Services in Middleboro. After that, she will have follow up visits to confirm the commands and skills she has learned, Lt. Mark McCoy said.

    “It just makes the relationship better between the police and the public,” he said of Daisy’s presence.

    But sightings of Daisy out and about in Manchester-by-the-Sea may take some time. Locke and other Manchester Police officers want to ease her into public appearances — especially at the Manchester Essex Regional School District schools.

    “We want to be low key,” Locke said. “We don’t want her to be overwhelmed. She takes it all in. She does bark.”

    Manchester Essex Regional High School first-year students Cate Vendt and Scarlett Lee proposed the idea for a comfort dog at the high school to Locke. Then the two met later with Fitzgerald and McCoy to formally pitch their idea. That meeting was followed by a presentation to the Select Board, which approved the idea April 16.

    The Manchester Essex Regional School Committee is slated to consider the plan for the comfort dog during its May 21 meeting.

    The cost to buy and train Daisy will total about $6,200, Fitzgerald said, and eventually there will be a swearing-in ceremony for the dog.

    McCoy is working with Hooper Fund officials to secure financial support for the initial costs of purchasing Daisy and for training. Additional financial support for the dog was provided by a gift from the Manchester Essex Regional High School Class of 2024, the Manchester Masons Lodge, the Manchester Rotary Club and resident Ralph Bates. Contributions of dog food and supplies were made by the Essex County Co-Op and Crosby’s Market.

    The comfort dog program will be financed, in part, by the Police Department’s account with North Shore Health Outreach for mental health programming and its K-9 allocation.

    Although Daisy is the Police Department’s first comfort dog, she is its second canine. The town’s first and only K-9, Kato, a German shepherd, joined the force in 2014 and retired in 2018 when his human partner went to work for another police agency.

    Kato and his partner located missing people, discovered illegal narcotics, tracked criminals together, worked as part of the Cape Ann Regional Response Team, and appeared on the NBC television show “American Ninja Warrior.” K-9 Kato is enjoying his golden years as ambassador for the nonprofit K9 PTSD Center of Seekonk, a therapeutic center for dogs who have worked in law enforcement and the military.

    Stephen Hagan may be contacted at 978-675-2708, or shagan@gloucestertimes.com.

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    By Stephen Hagan | Staff Writer

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  • Manchester-by-the Sea Town Meeting backs senior center plan. lauinch service

    Manchester-by-the Sea Town Meeting backs senior center plan. lauinch service

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    MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Considering 21 articles on the warrant was no easy task but annual Town Meeting wrapped it up in about three hours.

    Town Moderator Alan Wilson banged the gavel to convene the meeting Wednesday at Manchester Memorial Elementary School precisely at 6:30 p.m. and adjourned it at 9:12 p.m. Midway through, Wilson reported a quorum of 317 voters present.

    The meeting approved financing for a new senior center, the operation of a launch service in Manchester Harbor, and a number of capital projects, including $7,550,000 to make capital improvements to the town’s water and wastewater systems.

    It also approved a fiscal year 2025 budget amounting to $42,336,058, with $16,818,112 for the town operating and enterprise budgets for water and sewer, and debts; $19,060,435 for town’s share of Manchester Essex Regional School District’s operating budget and debt service; $243,385 for the North Shore Agricultural & Technical School; and $2,642,740 for capital items.

    Each of the above articles passed by substantial margins with voters using electronic vote tallying devices.

    Finance Committee Chairperson Sarah Mellish said the budgets received much careful consideration.

    “The Finance Committee feels this budget is prudent and addresses the needs of the town,” she said. “This is a lean budget that meets the town’s needs.”

    Article 6 authorizing the Select Board to raise or borrow $1 million to buy the Masons’ 26,045 square foot parcel at 10 Church St. needed a two-thirds majority and was approved by a sizable margin, prompting a rousing cheer. Many applauding were senior citizens.

    Select Board member Brian Sollosy moved the measure, which was seconded by Select Board member John Round.

    Responding to a question about whether the building is the right place for a town-operated facility, being at the edge of Manchester Harbor, Town Administrator Gregory Federspiel said the elevation of the Masons’ building protects it from storm surge.

    “This building is in pretty good shape,” Federspiel said. An appraisal a few years ago estimated the building’s value to be about $800,000.

    “We do feel the price is appropriate,” he said.

    The town will start running a launch service in Manchester Harbor after Town Meeting voted 309-34 to purchase to two launch boats and fund operating expenses for this fiscal year and next.

    Select Board member Catherine Bilotta said town officials, including Harbormaster Bion Pike, put together a prudent business plan for the launch service.

    “All of these costs are going to be reimbursed by user fees,” she said. “The entire endeavor is to be funded entirely by user fees.”

    Mellish said the effort should eventually be self-sustaining.

    “If you want to use a launch, contact the harbormaster and he’ll gladly take your money,” she said.

    The meeting also approved paying the town’s share of the Manchester Essex Regional School District’s $16,339,528 gross operating and maintenance budget for fiscal 2025, $2,720,907 to cover its long-term debt, and $660,000 for a feasibility study for Essex Elementary School.

    Superintendent Pamela Beaudoin said the Manchester Essex Regional School Committee will eventually narrow its focus to considering possible renovation or new construction for the school, 12 Story St. in Essex.

    “We really lean heavily on community experts,” she said.

    Spending $481,670 of Community Preservation Fund money on restoration of the First Parish Church steeple and resurfacing of the Sweeney Park basketball court, among other things, was approved, but not before a motion was made to eliminate $200,000 to fund the Manchester Affordable Housing Trust. The motion was defeated 178-45.

    Here is a condensed version of the articles on the meeting’s warrant and votes:

    1 – Receive reports of the town’s boards and committees. APPROVED.

    2 – Fix the salaries of the town moderator and members of the Select Board at $0 per year. APPROVED.

    3 – Raise $243,385 as the town’s share of the budget for the Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School District. APPROVED.

    4 – Raise sums by taxation to pay town debts and charges — $42,336,058 — for the coming fiscal year, effective July 1. APPROVED.

    5 – Spend the following, all of which were APPROVED:

    — Road resurfacing — $550,000.

    — DPW facility siting, geotechnical analysis — $250,000.

    — Drainage and sidewalk improvements — $250,000.

    — Storm damage repair — $50,000. Not recommended.

    — General building upgrades — $50,000.

    — Backhoe replacement — $150,000.

    — IT and telephone upgrades at Town Hall — $30,000.

    — Planning and zoning studies — $20,000. Not recommended, in operating budget.

    — Library walkway repairs — $6,500.

    — Library building assessment — $43,500.

    — Fire engine replacement fund — $250,000. Not recommended.

    — Ambulance 2 replacement — $470,000.

    — Police tasers — $12,600.

    — Police administration vehicle replacement — $73,000.

    — Cardiac monitors and defibrillators — $54,000.

    — Fire Station repairs and upgrades — $30,000. Not recommended, in operating budget.

    — Dredging/engineering/permitting — $100,000.

    — No wake buoys — $9,500.

    — Plant upgrades/PFAS design — $2 million. $150,000 recommended.

    — Pipe replacement/improvements — $2 million. Not recommended.

    — Meter replacements (for “smart” meters) — $1.5 million. Not recommended.

    — Water truck replacement — $50,000.

    — Plant upgrades/Equipment replacement – $4.1 million. $550,000 recommended.

    6 – Raise or borrow $1 million and authorize the Select Board to use it to acquire, for a senior center and, or community center, all or a portion of the Masons’ 26,045 square foot parcel at 10 Church St. APPROVED.

    7 – Raise or transfer money to operate a town-sponsored launch service in Manchester Harbor including $9,500 for fiscal 2024 operating expenses, $125,000 for the purchase of two launch boats, and $41,000 for fiscal 2025 launch operating expenses. APPROVED.

    8 – Spend $7,550,000 — $4,100,000 on the town’s water system and $3,450,000 on the town’s wastewater system — for capital improvements. APPROVED, 290-33.

    9 – Spend Massachusetts Public Library Construction Program grant funds and re-appropriate $150,000 of the $200,000 previously appropriated for restroom renovations at Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library. APPROVED, 200-19.

    10 – Create a Special Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund and dedicate 100% of the opioid litigation settlement funds to the fund. APPROVED.

    11 – Raise or transfer money for the town’s assessment for the gross operating and maintenance budget of the Manchester Essex Regional School District. APPROVED.

    12 – Raise or transfer $660,000 for the town’s apportioned share of the Essex Elementary School feasibility study. APPROVED, 244-44 .

    13 – Raise or transfer $248,348 to fund the town’s share of the cost to refurbish the turf fields in town. APPROVED.

    14 – Hear and act on the report of the Community Preservation Committee on the fiscal 2025 Community Preservation budget and to appropriate $481,670 from the Community Preservation Fund money to meet the administrative and other expenses of the committee for fiscal 2025. APPROVED.

    Included in the $481,670 total amount is:

    – $200,000 for the Manchester Affordable Housing Trust Project funding.

    – $60,000 for restoration of the First Parish Church steeple.

    – $28,500 to resurface the Sweeney Park basketball court.

    – $25,000 for restoration of town cemeteries.

    – $24,400 for portico restoration at Hooper Trask House.

    – $20,000 for Power House Hill parking and access easement.

    15 – Authorize the Select Board to acquire an access and parking easement on property owned by the Manchester Housing Authority at Newport Park for access to Powder House Hill conservation lands.  APPROVED.

    16 – Raise or transfer $100,000 to supplement the fiscal 2024 Legal Expenses Account. APPROVED.

    17 – Raise or transfer $300,000 to be deposited into the town’s “Other Post Employment Benefits Trust Fund.” APPROVED.

    18 – Set fiscal 2025 imitations on expenditures by the town’s recreation programs at $400,000; and the town’s Board of Health Emergency Dispensing Sites and Clinics Programs at $50,000.  APPROVED.

    19 – Amend the Tobacco Products Regulations and Tobacco Use Regulations of the town’s General Bylaws as fines and enforcement are covered by other bylaws and state statutes/regulations.  APPROVED.

    20 – Amend Article X, Section 23 of the General Bylaw on non-accessory signs by adding the language: “The provisions of this section shall not apply to non-accessory signs located on town-owned property, subject to the approval by the Select Board, nor to non-accessory signs on town-owned property used for educational purposes, subject to approval by the Manchester Essex Regional School Committee.”  APPROVED.

    21 – Raise or transfer money to reduce the tax rate. NO ACTION TAKEN.

    Stephen Hagan can be reached at 978-675-2708 or at shagan@northofboston.com.

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  • Notable US Spies Fast Facts | CNN

    Notable US Spies Fast Facts | CNN

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    CNN
     — 

    Here is a look at some US citizens who have been convicted of spying against the United States.

    1962 – Aldrich Ames, son of a CIA analyst, joins the agency as a low-level documents analyst.

    1967-1968 – Enters the Career Trainee Program at the CIA and becomes an operations officer.

    1970s – Specializes in Soviet/Russian intelligence services.

    April 16, 1985 – Volunteers to spy against the United States to KGB agents at the Soviet Embassy in Washington, DC. He receives a payment of $50,000.

    1986-1989 – Ames is stationed in Rome and continues to pass information to Soviet agents. He is paid approximately $1.8 million during this period.

    Late 1980s – The CIA and FBI learn that a number of Russian double agents have been arrested and some executed.

    May 1993 – The FBI begins investigating Ames, with both physical and electronic surveillance.

    February 21, 1994 – Ames and his wife, Rosario, are arrested in Arlington, Virginia, by the FBI, accused of spying for the Soviet Union and later, Russia. It is estimated that Ames has received approximately $2.5 million from Russia and the Soviet Union for his years of spying.

    April 28, 1994 – Ames pleads guilty and is sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. In October 1994, Ames’ wife receives 63 months in prison.

    October 31, 1995 – CIA Director John Deutch testifies before Congress about the scope of Ames’ espionage. He states that more than 100 US spies were compromised and that tainted intelligence was given to Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

    1970-1991 – David Boone serves in the US Army as a signals intelligence analyst. During the late 1980s, he is assigned to the National Security Agency as a senior cryptologic traffic analyst.

    October 1988 – In the midst of a divorce and financial problems, Boone goes to the Soviet embassy in Washington, DC, and offers to spy on the United States. He is paid about $20,000 a year for his work over the next three years. He continues spying after being transferred to a post in Germany.

    1991 – Boone loses his security clearance and retires from the Army, remaining in Germany.

    1998 – He is contacted by a retired FBI agent posing as a Russian agent. The agent meets with Boone in London and the United States and pays him $9,000 to return to spying for Russia.

    October 14, 1998 – Boone is charged with passing defense documents to the Soviet Union. He pleads guilty in December 1998.

    February 26, 1999 – He is sentenced to 24 years in prison.

    January 14, 2020 – Boone is released from prison.

    1996 – Peter Rafael Dzibinski Debbins makes visits to Russia to meet with their intelligence agents. He is given a code name and signs a settlement “attesting that he wanted to serve” them.

    1998-2005 – Debbins joins the Army, where he serves in chemical units before being selected for the US Army Special Forces.

    August 21, 2020 – The Department of Justice announces that Debbins has been charged with providing information about US national defenses to Russian agents.

    May 14, 2021 – The DOJ announces that Debbins is sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for conspiring with Russian agents to provide them with US defense intelligence.

    1968-1986 – Noshir Gowadia is employed by Northrop Grumman where he works on technology relating to the B-2 Spirit Bomber, aka the “Stealth” bomber.

    July 2003-June 2005 – Travels to China six times to “provide defense services in the form of design, test support and test data analysis of technologies to assist the PRC with a cruise missile system by developing a stealthy exhaust nozzle.” He is paid over $100,000 during this period.

    October 2005 – Arrested and charged with passing national defense information to China. Superseding indictments are issued in 2006 and 2007.

    August 9, 2010 – Gowadia is found guilty.

    January 24, 2011 – He is sentenced to 32 years in prison.

    January 12, 1976 – Robert Hanssen joins the FBI.

    1979 – Begins spying for the Soviet Union.

    1980 – Begins working for the counterintelligence unit, focusing on the Soviet Union.

    1981 – Transfers to FBI headquarters, initially tracking white-collar crime and monitoring foreign officials assigned to the United States. He is later assigned to the Soviet Analytical Unit.

    1981 – Hanssen’s wife catches him with classified documents and convinces him to stop spying.

    October 4, 1985 – Resumes spying.

    1991 – Breaks off relations with the KGB.

    1999 – Resumes spying, this time for the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service.

    2000 – The FBI identifies Hanssen from a fingerprint and from a tape recording supplied by a disgruntled Russian intelligence operative. The FBI also obtains the complete original KGB dossier on Hanssen.

    December 2000 – The FBI begins surveillance of Hanssen.

    February 18, 2001 – Hanssen is arrested in a Virginia park after making a drop of classified documents. Agents find a bag nearby containing $50,000 that they believe is Hanssen’s payment for the documents.

    July 6, 2001 – Pleads guilty to 15 counts of espionage and conspiracy in exchange for the government not seeking the death penalty.

    May 10, 2002 – He is sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

    June 5, 2023 – Hanssen dies in prison.

    1984 – Ana Montes is recruited to spy for Cuba. She is never paid for her spying.

    1985-2001 – She is employed by the Defense Intelligence Agency as an analyst. She is promoted several times, eventually becoming the DIA’s top Cuba analyst.

    Fall 2000 – The FBI and DIA begin investigating Montes.

    September 11, 2001 – In response to attacks on the United States, Montes is named acting division chief, which gives her access to the plans to attack Afghanistan and the Taliban.

    September 21, 2001 – Montes is arrested in Washington, DC, and is charged with conspiracy to deliver defense information to Cuba.

    March 20, 2002 – Pleads guilty to espionage and is sentenced to 25 years in prison.

    January 6, 2023 – Montes is released from prison.

    1977 – Walter Kendall Myers begins working for the US State Department on contract, as an instructor.

    1978 – Myers travels to Cuba and is recruited by Cuban intelligence.

    1979 – Myers and his girlfriend [later his wife], Gwendolyn, begin spying for Cuba. It is believed they receive little to no payment for their services.

    1985 – He is hired by the State Dept. as a senior analyst.

    October 31, 2007 – Myers retires from the State Dept.

    June 4, 2009 – The Myers are arrested.

    November 20, 2009 – He pleads guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit espionage. Gwendolyn Myers pleads guilty to conspiracy to gather and transmit national defense information.

    July 16, 2010 – Myers is sentenced to life in prison. His wife is sentenced to 81 months.

    1980 – Harold Nicholson joins the CIA after serving in the United States Army.

    1982-1989 – Nicholson works for the CIA in the Philippines, Thailand and Japan.

    1992-1994 – Deputy Chief of Station/Operations Officer in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

    June 1994-November 1996 – Provides Russian Intelligence with sensitive information.

    November 16, 1996 – Arrested at Dulles International Airport carrying classified CIA information.

    November 27, 1996 – Nicholson pleads not guilty.

    June 5, 1997 – He is convicted of espionage and sentenced to 23 years in prison.

    2008 – Nicholson’s son, Nathaniel, is arrested on charges he met with Russian agents to collect money owed to his father.

    January 18, 2011 – Harold Nicholson is sentenced to an additional eight years in prison on charges of conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Nathaniel Nicholson is sentenced to five years probation.

    1965-1979 – Ronald Pelton works for the National Security Agency, with top-level security clearance.

    1979 – Pelton leaves the NSA due to financial problems.

    January 1980 – After declaring bankruptcy in 1979, Pelton begins spying for the Soviet Union. He discloses classified information on the United States’ ability to intercept Soviet communications.

    November 25, 1985 – After a KGB defector reveals his name, Pelton is arrested and charged with espionage.

    June 5, 1986 – He is convicted of spying.

    December 17, 1986 – Pelton is sentenced to three concurrent life sentences plus 10 years.

    November 24, 2015 – Pelton is released from prison.

    1983-1996 – Earl Edwin Pitts works at the FBI.

    1987-1992 – Pitts passes information on FBI operations to the Soviet Union and Russia.

    1995 – A Russian diplomat at the UN names Pitts as a former spy. FBI agents posing as Russian intelligence officers contact Pitts to attempt to lure him back to spying. Pitts delivers documents in exchange for $65,000.

    December 18, 1996 – Pitts is arrested. He is charged two days later with conspiring and attempting to commit espionage.

    February 28, 1997 – Pleads guilty. At the time, he is only the second agent in the FBI’s history to be found guilty of espionage.

    June 23, 1997 – He is sentenced to 27 years in prison.

    December 20, 2019 – Pitts is released from prison.

    1979 – Pollard is hired to work at the Navy Field Operational Intelligence Office. He had been rejected previously from employment at the CIA due to drug use. His specialty is North America and the Caribbean.

    June 1984 – He begins spying for Israel, passing on information on Arab countries. He earns $1,500-$2,500 a month.

    November 21, 1985 – Pollard is arrested outside the Israeli Embassy after his request for asylum is denied.

    June 4, 1986 – Pleads guilty to conspiracy to commit espionage.

    March 4, 1987 – US District Judge Aubrey Robinson Jr. rejects a plea agreement reached by federal prosecutors and Pollard. Instead, he sentences Pollard to life in prison. Pollard is the only person in US history to receive a life sentence for spying on behalf of a US ally. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama have rejected pleas for clemency.

    1995 – Israel grants Pollard citizenship.

    May 11, 1998 – Israel admits for the first time that Pollard was working as its agent.

    2002 – Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits Pollard in prison.

    July 28, 2015 – Pollard’s attorney announces that Pollard has been granted parole and will be released in November.

    November 20, 2015 – Pollard is released on parole.

    November 20, 2020 – Pollard completes his parole. A month later Pollard and his wife arrive in Israel to start a new life.

    1969-1994 – George Trofimoff, a naturalized American citizen of Russian parentage, works as a civilian for the US Army at the Joint Interrogation Center in Nuremberg, Germany. He also attains the rank of colonel in the Army reserve.

    1994 – Trofimoff and a priest in the Russian Orthodox church, Igor Susemihl, are arrested in Germany on spying charges. The charges are later dropped.

    1994 – Retires and moves to South Florida.

    June 14, 2000 – Trofimoff is arrested. US Attorney Donna Bucella describes him as “the highest-ranking US military officer ever charged with espionage. He is accused of passing classified information on Soviet and Warsaw Pact military capabilities from 1969-1994. Allegedly, he received payment of over $250,000 during that time.

    June 27, 2001 – He is convicted of spying for the Soviet Union and Russia. He is later sentenced to life in prison.

    September 19, 2014 – Trofimoff dies in prison.

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  • Newly promoted to be pinned in ceremony

    Newly promoted to be pinned in ceremony

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    On Thursday, police Chief Ed Conley and fire Chief Eric Smith will host a badge ceremony to swear in new and recently promoted police officers and firefighters.

    The public is invited to the ceremony on April 25 at 5 p.m. in Kyrouz Auditorium at City Hall, 9 Dale Ave.

    Being promoted are:

    Gloucester Police: Sgt. Robert Morrissey to lieutenant and Officer Michael Cimoszko to sergeant.

    Gloucester Fire: Firefighter James Hannon V to lieutenant and will swear in new Firefighter Andrew Hugel.

    Mayor Greg Verga will lead the ceremony and provide opening remarks. Conley and Smith will present their members.

    — Times Staff

    In other news taken from the logs of Cape Ann’s police and fire departments:

    GLOUCESTER Wednesday, April 17

    7:05 p.m.: A 911 caller reported smoke coming from his 2016 Ford F150 pickup at Gloucester Crossing Road. No flames were showing. Police provided the driver with a courtesy ride and the vehicle was towed for safety reasons.

    5:51 p.m.: A crash with property damage only was reported on Beacon Street.

    4:42 p.m.: After a reported stop sign violation at 370 Main St., police planned to file a complaint against a Gloucester resident with a charge of driving without a license. A licensed driver was able to drive the car from the scene.

    11:32 a.m.: A crash on Dory Road was under investigation.

    11:12 a.m.: Peace was restored after a reported crash in the vicinity of 382 Main St., Domino’s Pizza.

    12:32 a.m.: A suspicious person was reported at the Jodrey State Fish Pier on Parker Street.

    Tuesday, April 16

    11:43 p.m.: Police responded to two possible car breaks. On Cherry Hill Road, police came across a parked 2003 Nissan Altima, when a sergeant relayed information about a 2017 Volkswagen Passat on Macomber Road. Both cars’ driver’s side and rear doors were found open, and both appeared to have been ransacked. It was not known if anything was missing. Police attempted to reach the owners of the cars.

    10:43 p.m.: Police could not locate a reported disturbance on Mt. Pleasant Avenue.

    6:55 p.m.: The Fire Department was assisted with a call from Summer Street. A caller reported an alarm sounding from a neighbor’s home for roughly an hour with concerns for the neighbor’s well-being. Police were unsure if the home was occupied or not.

    4:59 p.m.: A three-car crash with injuries was reported on Blackburn Circle. The Rockport driver of a 2015 GMC told police he or she blacked out while driving on Route 128 south towards the rotary, the crash report said. The GMC reportedly sideswiped a 2014 Volkswagen before it traveled onto the median and crashed into a yield sign. The GMC then continued through the median and onto the traffic circle where it rear-ended a 2016 Volvo, spinning this vehicle 180 degrees. The GMC then came to rest in the center of the traffic circle. All three drivers were taken to area hospitals and all three vehicles were towed from the scene.

    Crashes with property damage only were reported on Washington and Poplar streets at 1:59 p.m., St. Anthony’s Lane at 2:11 p.m., and at the Cruiseport Gloucester on Rowe Square at 3:23 p.m.

    1:45 p.m.: Vandalism was reported on Centennial Avenue.

    1:04 p.m.: An abandoned vehicle was reported on Mansfield Street.

    11:31 a.m.: Police had a vehicle reported disabled on Route 128 northbound towed.

    2:33 a.m.: No action was required for a report of a disabled vehicle on the Route 128 extension.

    Monday, April 15

    10:14 p.m.: A crash with property damage only was reported at the traffic lights on Eastern Avenue and the Route 128 extension.

    Fire Department assisted on Prospect Street at 12:33 p.m., and at a possible gas leak on Magnolia Avenue at 10:06 p.m.

    Vehicles repossessed at 8:51 p.m. on Patriots Circle and 8:54 p.m. on Whittemore Street.

    7:50 p.m.: A report of fraud on High Popples Road was under investigation.

    Disturbances were reported on Main Street at 12:01 and 1:26 p.m. and on Prospect and Pleasant streets at 7:44 p.m., to which police responded.

    6:52 p.m.: Harassment was reported on Oakes Avenue.

    1:16 p.m.: An abandoned vehicle was reported on Derby Street.

    11:55 a.m.: A hypodermic needle was retrieved from Pearl Street and disposed of safely.

    9:30 a.m.: A disabled vehicle was reported at Exit 53 on Route 128 northbound.

    12:06 a.m.: Police planned to file a complaint against a 54-year-old Gloucester resident on a charge of violating a harassment prevention order after responding to a report on Washington Street. A resident explained he was having ongoing issues with his neighbor knocking on his door, and he reportedly did so again that night. Given the order was active and required the neighbor to stay at least 20 yards away, police filed the complaint.

    Sunday, April 14

    10:09 p.m.: Peace was restored after a report that several cars were parked on Magnolia and Western Avenue.

    Crashes with property damage only were reported on on Route 128 southbound at 10:30 a.m., Poplar Park at 11:56 a.m., and Mansfield Street at 9:56 p.m.

    3:45 p.m.: After an off-duty officer called in a disabled vehicle on Route 128 southbound prior to the A. Piatt Andrew Bridge, police planned to file a complaint against a 54-year-old Gloucester resident on a charge of driving without a license. The driver, who was alone in the car, told police she was on her way to Lynn when the hood came loose and struck the windshield, cracking it. She then provided police with an expired registration and a Massachusetts ID card. Dispatch informed the officer the car’s registration was active and the driver had an active learner’s permit. The driver told police she did not have the active registration or permit on hand. Police explained to her she needed to keep her permit with her while driving, and that to drive with a learner’s permit she needed to be accompanied by a licensed driver older than 21 with at least a year of driving experience in the passenger seat. She also needed to have the registration in her possession. Police had the vehicle towed and gave the driver a ride home.

    3:25 p.m.: Police were called to assist with the Blynman Bridge on Western Avenue.

    2:55 p.m.: A motor vehicle stop at the Speedway on Main Street resulted in charges being filed, according to the log. The gray 2007 Chevrolet Colorado pickup was listed in the log as being unregistered. Police had it towed.

    2:54 p.m.: Peace was restored after a report of a disturbance on Leslie O. Johnson Road.

    2:15 p.m.: Police were called to assist with gas leak at a Rocky Neck Avenue restaurant. The caller reported everyone was out of the restaurant and the Fire Department was notified.

    1:12 p.m.: Police assisted the Fire Department with a call from Poplar Park after a medical alarm got no response from a patient. A cruiser was sent to assist firefighters and a patient was transported to Addison Gilbert Hospital.

    1:03 p.m.: Police responded to a disturbance on Main Street.

    12:11 p.m.: Debris in the roadway was reported between the lights and Blackburn Circle on Route 128 southbound.

    10:09 a.m.: A disturbance was reported at Walgreens on Main Street.

    ROCKPORT Monday, April 22

    Fire Department dispatched to Pigeon Hill Court at 2:52 and 11:16 p.m., after a report and request, respectively were received.

    10:56 p.m.: A motor vehicle crash on Old Garden Road was reported.

    7:08 p.m.: After a motor vehicle stop on Main Street, a verbal warning was issued.

    5:46 p.m.: A report was made about an animal at a Gaffield Avenue address.

    2:46 p.m.: A wellbeing check was conducted at the intersection of Main Street and Dodds Lane.

    10:06 a.m.: Police wellness check calls were made to residents around town.

    9:03 a.m.: A report was made about lost and found property at a Granite Street address.

    7:58 a.m.: An individual was assisted on Main Street.

    ESSEX Monday, April 22

    Individuals were assisted on John Wise Avenue ay 11:35 a.m. and 5:22 p.m.

    4:18 p.m.: A complaint was made about an animal at a Lakeshore Drive address.

    1:53 p.m.: After a report of an unknown medical problem, an ambulance was dispatched to a John Wise Avenue address.

    Police investigations were conducted on Southern Avenue at 1:21 a.m. and Honeysuckle Road at 11:06 a.m..

    12:57 a.m.: A report was made about a motor vehicle crash at a Western Avenue address.

    MANCHESTER Monday, April 22

    Complaints about animals on Beach Street at 10:41 a.m., near Black Beach and Kettle Cove at 10:54 a.m., on White Beach at 10:54 a.m., Raymond Street at 10:55 a.m., and Lincoln Street at 6:06 p.m. were lodged.

    Traffic stops were conducted at the intersection of Beach Street and Tappan Street at 9:47 a.m., on Pine Street at 11:19 and 11:37 a.m. when written warnings were issued, and Pleasant Street at 6:04 p.m. The first and last drivers were given verbal warnings.

    2:50 p.m.: A community policing call was conducted at a Lincoln Street address.

    2:35 p.m.: Suspicious activity at a Beach Street address was reported.

    4:06 a.m.: Suspicious activity was reported at a Forest Street address.

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  • Sen. Warren and Lt. Gov. Kim Dirscoll to deliver keynote at NSCC commencement

    Sen. Warren and Lt. Gov. Kim Dirscoll to deliver keynote at NSCC commencement

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    DANVERS — U.S Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll will act as the commencement speakers for North Shore Community College’s 58th annual commencement ceremony on Friday, May 17.

    Warren will deliver the keynote address for the 10 a.m. ceremony for Health Professions and Liberal Studies graduates.

    Driscoll will deliver the keynote address at the 2 p.m. ceremony for Human Services & STEM and Business graduates.

    Both ceremonies will both be held at NSCC’s Lynn Campus, 300 Broad St..

    The college expects to award approximately 700 associate degrees and certificates at the two graduation ceremonies.

    “We are immensely proud to have Senator Warren and Lt. Governor Driscoll join us for our commencement ceremony, where we celebrate the achievements of our students. Their unwavering dedication to making higher education more accessible and affordable is truly appreciated and deeply respected,” stated North Shore Community College President William Heineman.

    Warren is the longest serving U.S. senator from Massachusetts, and became the first woman ever in the Senate from Massachusetts after being elected in 2013.

    Driscoll is the 73rd lieutenant governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and comprises the first all-women executive team to lead Massachusetts along with Gov. Maura Healey. The Healey-Driscoll administration has done significant work advancing tuition equity, including making community college free for all Massachusetts residents age 25 and older through the MassReconnect program.

    For more information on North Shore Community College, visit northshore.edu.

    Michael McHugh can be contacted at mmchugh@northofboston.com or at 781-799-5202

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    By Michael McHugh Staff Writer

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  • SENIOR LOOKOUT: Need a reason to volunteer? Here are a few

    SENIOR LOOKOUT: Need a reason to volunteer? Here are a few

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    April is National Volunteer Month and next week (April 21-27) is a highlight of the month as National Volunteer Week. This began as a celebration to honor the contribution women made on the home front during World War II.

    After the war, interest resurged in the late 1960s and early 1970s and April became National Volunteer Month as part of President George H.W. Bush’s 1000 Points of Light campaign in 1991. National Volunteer Month is a time for organizations to honor volunteers and recognize the irreplaceable impact volunteers make on our communities.

    In 2023, more than 375 volunteers from SeniorCare’s RSVP Volunteers of the North Shore contributed 39,614 hours of volunteer service, sharing their time, skills, and talents, while spreading kindness and compassion throughout the community.

    Volunteers are driven, for their own reasons, to help and support their neighbors, their communities and the world. Why do people volunteer? What is the motivation?

    Here are a few of the many reasons people volunteer:

    Personal passions. You may have grown up in poverty, your sister may have had breast cancer, your grandmother may have been on hospice. Your heart has been touched, and you want to give back.

    Learn a new skill. Perhaps you are in college and are building your resume, mid-life looking for a new career, or retired and curious. Regardless as to why, volunteering is a great way to learn something new.

    Cultural diversity. You want to learn about other cultures so you volunteer abroad teaching English to Japanese students, or you go to another country and work in a refugee camp. This not only helps the people you will be serving, but you get the opportunity to expand your understanding of other cultures.

    Setting a good example. You work all week, take care of two teenage kids, but you find time to serve a meal to those less fortunate than you once a month. You certainly are helping others, but you are also modeling good behavior for your kids.

    Meeting like-minded, motivated, positive people. Connecting over shared interests in a cause while helping others is an excellent way to meet new friends. When you volunteer, your circle of friends can broaden quickly.

    New opportunities. There are volunteer opportunities that could lead you to experiences you might not otherwise have. Volunteering to usher for a theater will allow you to see a production you might otherwise not be able to see. Volunteer at a zoo and you might get the opportunity to develop a friendship with a giraffe.

    A need to focus on the positive. In today’s world of never-ending, instant — and often disheartening — news, volunteering presents a proactive way of doing something to make the world a better place. Even the smallest gestures make a difference.

    Empowerment. Maybe someone offered you a helping hand when you were down and out. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to pay that favor forward. Often times, a word of encouragement and a little assistance to those in need can help them get back on their feet.

    Volunteering is quite easy. There is a nonprofit organization for just about every interest or cause out there. Finding the right organization to volunteer for is just an internet search away, or SeniorCare’s RSVP Volunteers of the North Shore can help you find the best fit for volunteering. You can call RSVP at 978-281-1750 or visit www.thevolunteerlink.org.

    A big thank you to all volunteers! You make the world a better place.

    Tracy Arabian is the communications officer at SeniorCare Inc., a local agency on aging that serves Gloucester, Beverly, Essex, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport, Topsfield and Wenham.

    Tracy Arabian is the communications officer at SeniorCare Inc., a local agency on aging that serves Gloucester, Beverly, Essex, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport, Topsfield and Wenham.

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    Senior Lookout | Tracy Arabian

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