Day: April 2, 2026

Float your Boat…

Mayor Paul Lundberg was joined by Kimberly Brusseau and Beverly Cadigan of New Gloucester, Maine, at his office at Gloucester City Hall. Ms. Brusseau and Ms. Cadigan visited on behalf of the community of New Gloucester, whose residents organized a fundraising effort after learning about the devastating loss of the Gloucester fishing vessel Lily Jean earlier this year. 

The Lily Jean, a 72-foot Gloucester-based commercial fishing vessel, sank on January 30, 2026, off Cape Ann, Massachusetts. Seven lives were lost in this tragedy, which had a profound impact on Gloucester’s historic fishing community as many of the crew members came from multigenerational fishing families.

In the wake of the tragedy, Gloucester residents and supporters across the region have rallied to assist the families affected by the loss. The Gloucester Fishing Community Preservation Fund established the Lily Jean Fund to assist the families of the crew members and support the broader fishing community. Donations to the fund are distributed evenly among the families of those who were lost.

Residents of New Gloucester, Maine, organized their own community fundraising effort and collected donations for the Lily Jean Fund. Together the town of 6,000 residents raised $3282 for the fund, along with sympathy cards and gift bags from Mainely Fudge for each family. Their generosity reflects the strong connection shared by fishing communities throughout New England and the widespread compassion felt following the tragedy. 

“On behalf of the City of Gloucester, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the residents of New Gloucester for this extraordinary act of kindness.” Said Mayor Lundberg. “In the face of unimaginable loss, your community’s generosity is a powerful reminder that the bonds between our residents run deep. Your support not only honors the memory of the Lily Jean crew, but also brings comfort and strength to the families and to our entire fishing community during this difficult time.”

—
Mayor Paul Lundberg
City of Gloucester

Sorry Joey, I am doubling down on the hummingbird feeeding stations at my house this year. Not that you EVAH win, but this year’s selections for the hummingbirds and orioles will be hands-down winners. We can expect them to start returning mid April but it’s a good idea to put the feeders out a couple of weeks in advance so they see the red right away. I’m going to try the same with the Baltimore Orioles. And we’re off……

MARCH 24, 2026 ~ GREATER CAPE ANN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ~ 

Built by Fishermen, Named by Artists, Loved by All

Join us for Motif No. 1 Day as we celebrate Rockport’s unique identity as both a historic fishing village and a vibrant artist destination. Centered around the iconic red fishing shack—long a favorite subject for painters and photographers—this beloved annual event brings together the very spirit of Rockport: coastal beauty, creative energy, and community pride.

Stroll through town as artists set up along the harbor capturing Motif No. 1 and Rockport’s stunning waterfront in real time. Enjoy live music, street performances, family-friendly art activities, and pop-up experiences that unfold throughout the day. From Dock Square to Bearskin Neck and beyond, there’s always something happening just around the corner.

Explore galleries, discover local shops, and experience the charm that has inspired generations of artists. Whether you’re watching a painting come to life, enjoying a performance, or simply taking in the view, Motif No. 1 Day invites you to slow down, look closer, and connect with what makes Rockport so special.