Author: Joey Ciaramitaro

The creator of goodmorninggloucester.org Lover of all things Gloucester and Cape Ann. GMG where we bring you the very best our town has to offer because we love to share all the great news and believe that by promoting others in our community everyone wins.

The LilyLady of Lanesville from Fred Bodin

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Fred Bodin

I knew Bobbie Brooks 30+ years ago when she had an antique shop in Lanesville. Now she’s doing amazing work as a professional garden designer, plus growing  and creating hybrids of her own daylilies. Her fields are expansive, covering over one acre, but you’d never know it driving down Rt. 127. She has 800 varieties of hybrid daylilies, the "summer jewels of the garden." I learned much about daylillies in my short time shooting in Bobbie’s one acre garden.

Bobbie demonstrates how hybrids are made. What she likes about this daylily is it’s teeth, or jagged edges.

Bobbie is a hand’s on gardener. She’s a successful garden designer, which is her main business, but she’s also passionate about dayilies. Who else on God’s earth would grow 800 varieties of a plant, and it’s not her major source of income. It must be LOVE.

Fred’s first Birthday present, a potted Sugar Plum daylily, was an unexpected gift from Bobbie Brooks.

I’ll have it displayed at Fred’s Birthday and GMG mug up on Sunday, July 28th, at 9:30am to 11am or later. It’s at my gallery, 82 Main Street in Gloucester. All are welcome.

On your way back home after my event, go see Bobbie – she’ll be open until 2pm Sunday. Go Bobbie! Trust me, I know a good egg when I see one, and it’s her.

Bobbie Brooks 73 Langsford St Lanesville / Rt 127 978 283 4480

lilylady@comcast.net

www.distinctivegardendesigns.com

www.facebook.com/pages/DISTINCTIVE-GARDEN-DESIGNS/269140633407

Community Photos 7/27/13

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Tony Hilliard submits-

Joey,

   Thanks again for the hat I Freakin love it! Took this one down the Boulevard Tuesday night of my "Pot of Gold"

GEDC4509

We have spent the week enjoying the area once again.  It truly is an exceptional place to live.  Heading back to our inn on the Delaware River in Milford, NJ in the morning, but wanted to share some iPhone 5 pictures from our determination to
find joy in spite of the rain.
1.  My son wrote:  O say can you see the calming, linear continuity–between the angle of the flag and that of the sails–in my mom’s photo, snapped today in Massachusetts?

1
2.  Speaking of lines!

2

3.  Checking for the last morsel of food!

3

Linda rae castagna
www.chestnuthillnj.com

4.  Seemed strange to see scuba divers on such a rainy day until I thought that one through.

4
5.  Always love the color in the kayaks, and the sailboat holds such a graceful presence for the eyes.

5
6.  Practice makes perfect!

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7.  Sailing the greasy pole.

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8.  A lonely day on Niles.

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Thank you for the daily updates on a town we have grown to love, though from a distance most of the time.  Linda rae

Community Stuff 7/27/13

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Reid R. Sacco lost his two-year fight with sarcoma in 2005 at the age of 20.  Reid learned first-hand of the tragic disparities faced by adolescents and young adults (AYA’s) diagnosed with cancer, particularly in the areas of age-appropriate care, access to clinical trials and survival rates.   Reid inspired many during his cancer journey with his courage, perseverance, selflessness and contagious optimism and laughter.   An avid sailor, Reid looked at his cancer journey like a voyage at sea and was unwilling to let the relentless storm of treatments and setbacks keep him from enjoying every minute of his life that he loved with family and friends.

Reid’s Ride began by Reid parents, family and friends, is the main fund-raising event for the Reid Sacco Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Fund.  That fund is dedicated to supporting clinical and scientific research into finding better treatments — and someday a cure — for the cancers that strike adolescents and young adults.  It is acknowledged by the medical community worldwide that this population of cancer victims has not benefitted from the advances in cancer treatment and survival rates as have other age groups.  It is a gap into which Reid and young adult cancer patients like him found themselves, willing to fight but without an army of options to help.

Most recently, the proceeds from Reid’s Ride have enabled Tufts Medical Center to launch the Reid R. Sacco AYA Program, including the Reid R. Sacco Adolescent & Young Adult Clinic for Cancer and Blood Diseases, located at the Tufts Cancer Center in Boston.

"Life is like sailing.  Change can come upon you suddenly.  But just because you sometimes have to alter your course, it doesn’t mean you have to stop sailing." – Reid R. Sacco, 2003

Dream Repeater: Toys Falling
IlaSahai Prouty and company

Flatrocks Gallery is pleased to present Dream Repeater: Toys Falling, a group show curated by IlaSahai Prouty. The opening reception is Saturday, August 3, from 7-9 pm. It will be followed by an evening of  poetry and stories on Saturday August 10th at 7pm.

 

In her on-going project Dream Repeater, Prouty creates artworks in various media based on bits of collected dream narratives. For this show, she has invited other artists to join her.

Prouty’s work deals with the ways repetition can intensify and expand meaning. “I’m exploring how a short snippet of a dream, essentially a short story, can grow to become something larger and more mythic.”

 

Last summer, Prouty’s Dream Repeater work, “Goldilocks, Save the World,” was installed at the Cape Ann Museum’s White Ellery House. This year, she returns to her home town to present a collection of works based on a dream called Toys Falling. “I have been working with these dreams myself, and I wanted to expand the project – to see where others might take the dreams, and how they look through other peoples eyes.”

 

Each artist in this show agreed to create work in response to the dream text. The show will include sculpture, painting, encaustic, illustration, mixed media, poetry, video, printmaking, quilting, and story telling.

 

Participating Artists are: IlaSahai Prouty, Caroline Bagenal, Rocky Delforge, Adriane Herman, Bo Hyung Lee, Vicki Paret, Doris Prouty, Hans Pundt, Sarah Slifer Swift, Stephanie Williams, Heather Atwood, Emily Wheeler, Tim Averill, and Peter Hickman.

 

IlaSahai Prouty grew up in Lanesville, Massachusetts. She is a former chair of the Art Department at the Waring School in Beverly, Mass., and considers herself an artist with Cape Ann roots. She has an MFA from the California College of Art in San Francisco, California., and is currently Resident Artist at the Penland School of Crafts in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Prouty is also an Assistant Professor at nearby Appalachian State University.
Flatrocks Gallery is located at 77 Langsford Street/Route 127 in Gloucester, MA. Hours are 12-5pm, Thursday through Sunday, and by appointment. The gallery is focused on continuing the long tradition of artists in Lanesville, and is committed to offering works of art to the community that challenge and engage.

Choreographer/Dancer : Sarah Slifer Swiftsarasliffer

                           Mixed Media Sculpture:Hans Pundt

hans clock

Franklin Desk

Community Stuff 7/27/13

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

THANK YOU

The Friends of Seacoast Annual Seacoast Seven Road Race was a huge success.  Runners from all of the state ran the 7K race throughout the beautiful scenic trail in Gloucester.

We are grateful to Patrick Thorpe, President of Bank Gloucester our generous race sponsor for their continued support of this annual race which is one of our major fund raisers.

Lahey Health, Addison Gilbert Hospital, Rockport Mortgage, and Good Morning Gloucester for sponsoring the tee shirts given to the runners and volunteers.
 
Hospice of North Shore and Greater Boston for sponsoring the registration table.

Carroll K Steele Insurance, Lyons Ambulance, Beauport Ambulance, Granite Savings Bank, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Rockport National Bank, Seacoast Nursing and Rehabilitation Center,, Merritt Capital Management and Liquor Locker for sponsoring the beverage table.

Ben’s Wallpaper, Cape Ann Medical Center, Georges Coffee Shop for sponsoring Mile Markers

Stop and Shop, Jim’s Bagel & Bake Shop, Market Basket, and Shaw’s for providing bagels, water, bananas, and power bars for the runners after the race.

Gloucester Rental Center for providing the tent. Al Carrasco, David Harrison DMD, Goodwin’s Party Shop and Lone Gull Coffee House for their generous donations towards the race.

Thank you Nick Curcuru and Christine Parisi and David Cox for your coverage of the race and Mike Page of North Shore Timing who timed the runners. Larry Ryan for his design of the race tee shirts. Lyons Ambulance for sending an EMT team to insure the safety of the runnes.

The success of every organization is dependent on the people who give selfishly of their time and money. The Friends of Seacoast are fortunate to have so many of these people insuring that the residents stay connected to the community. Their efforts provide the entertainment on a daily basis.  Harbor rides, dining at area restaurant, dinner shows at Seacoast, gifts at Mother’s and Father’s Day along with Christmas, and many more events that would not be possible without the Friends of Seacoast. It all starts with our capable Activities Director Alison Cox, our Administrator Stephen Doyle and our Friends of Seacoast members, JD Mac Eachern our Race Director, Maryanne Amero, Angela Ciaramitaro, Joey Ciaramitaro, Pat Ciaramitaro, Lisa Leahy, Karen Mc Cann, Rosalee Nicastro, Buzz Mc Eachern, Sam Santuccio, Grace Simpson, and Joanne Waalewyn.

A special thanks to all the volunteers who helped on the day of the race, Joan and Fred Bishop, David Amero, Brian Carey, Mark Leahy, John Lattof, Josh Arnold, Donna Lupo, Vinny Woodhams, Faye Quinlan, Fire Chief Eric Smith, Meg Mc Cann, Marc Grenier, Alison Mc Namara, Allie Rose Nicastro, Paul Muniz, Meghan Muniz, James C. Greely III. The Gloucester Police Dept. Lt. John Mc Carthy, Sgt Dave Quinn, and Officer Brian Crowley.

Tom Lattof, Chairman
Friends of Seacoast

In Case You Didn’t Hear Sister Felicia’s Cookbook Kickstarter Project Went Live and Was Selected As A Staff Pick It The Food Category

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Click here to check it out and reserve yours

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Check out the video and reserve your copy today!!!

Huge help from so many FOB’s that I’m scared to death to try to compile a list for fear of missing someone but I’m sure Felicia will put together a nice thank you soon.

Dinner Dealer Founder Jessica brand writes-

I’ve yet to meet Felicia but I have to tell you that her kickstarter video was so heartwarming. I could listen to her talk for hours. They way she talks about Italians cooking for memory, I know exactly what she means. I only lived and worked in Italy for 6 months, a long time ago, but I experienced first hand what she was talking about. So incredible, I couldn’t resist sending you a note.

Buona fortuna!

Jess

Representing! GMG Happy FOBs

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Ellen Santos writes-

Best Hat Ever!!

Hi Joey,
The hat got here just in time (almost) for my husband Reggie’s birthday.  He was surprised and thrilled with it and wore it to Salisbury Beach today.  Reggie is a Gloucester native and we both follow your blog daily.  Thanks for keeping us in touch.
Ellen Santos

Reggie's New Hat 2

Dee Noble writes-

Love our new Stonewashed hats

Hi Joey! We LOVE our new beautiful blue stonewashed hats! We are rocking the beach in this AWESOME GMG swag! Better place an order for more…..They are going to go like hot cakes….

photo-3

Kevin Berrigan writes-

Thank You!

New hat got here today! Thanks so much for sending it right out!! Can’t wait to have it become a permanent fixture on the top of my head and show it off proudly wherever my travels take me!!

photo-5

Send in your GMG Swag photos and Represent with the rest of the GMG FOBs!

What’s that you don’t have one yet??? Then order one up and get on the team.

To order GMG Dry Fit Short and Long Sleeve Shirts, Super Crazy Soft Feminine Cut V Neck or Scoop Neck T Shirts.

http://gmg.storenvy.com/

If you don’t see a shirt in a style/size/color  combination you like, you can send in a request and I’ll do my best to make it happen-

http://gmg.storenvy.com/contact

Community Photos 7/26/13

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro
Annisquam – Rainbow & Sunset from Elinor Teele

Hi Joey , Had a great time at Halibut Point picking blueberries with the grandkids , enough to make a pie!

Best, Kathy Slifer

IMG_3953

Sail GHS Summer Sailing Clinics

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Hi Joey,

I’m sure you have seen the kids on the Sail GHS Team out in the harbor having a great time racing in all weather throughout the year.  During the summer months, they are offering Summer Sailing Clinics in their

new, C 420 sailboats and even in their newly acquired Laser!  Level II Sailing Coach, Guy Fiero is at the helm and with assistance from his very, dedicated team of volunteers.  This is the biggest bargain for sailing on Cape Ann at  ONLY $85 per week, Monday through Friday 8 – 11:30am.  Five days a week and still time in the afternoon to hit the beach!  Kids with some sailing experience ages 10 and up are welcome.  Classes meet at Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center and there is no need to pre-register!  Just bring yourself, your friends, and your life jackets if you have them.  Sailors should arrive promptly at 8:00 am as space is limited.  Discounts available. 

All proceeds from this ongoing fundraiser go to Sail GHS, a non-profit organization to help defray operating costs and provide the youth of Cape Ann and beyond with this wonderful sailing opportunity!

Please contact sailghs@yahoo.com or Guy Fiero at 978-290-7894 with any questions.

Thanks so much for sharing!

Becca Campbell

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You’ve been Hearing About It For 2 Years- Sista Felicia’s Cookbook Kickstarter is Finally Live!!!!!!

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Click here to check it out and reserve yours

image

Check out the video and reserve your copy today!!!

A unique & colorful cookbook that will bring to life lost recipes & traditions from my Sicilian kitchen to yours. My Gifts of Gold!

Funds raised through Kickstarter will allow me to realize the first step in my dream of publishing a series of four cookbooks that includes recipes and stories I learned growing up in a Sicilian family. When I became a mother of twins, I was compelled to collect the stories and the recipes I felt were being left behind because I wanted my children to be raised with all the same traditions and rich cultural heritage I had experienced.

What started out as a gift for my children quickly evolved into a hardcover 250 plus page restoration of Sicilian culture and foods. Through my cooking videos onGoodMorningGloucester.org and Media Program Network (MPN), a demand has developed for a text copy version of all my recipes so they may be shared with others within my community and beyond.

My first book is ready for print; it is written, is loaded with photographs, and awaits funding. Monies raised will pay for current  expenses related to editing, book design and layout, photography, and publication.

With your help, Kickstarter will enable me to bring my passion for all things Sicilian to your kitchen to share with your loved ones. This book embodies my commitment to ensure the past is not lost but is forever saved for future generations.

Last Call To Order Super Crazy Soft Ladies Feminine Cut T’s For The First Shipment

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

I’m taking requests for different colors email me here with your combination (Marty Morgan I know you want the scoop neck Dark gray but I forgot the size so shoot me an email)-Request your color/style/size example: navy/scoop neck/large

When I called the rep I asked her to tell me what the top three premium women t-shirts are for softness and quality.  So I ordered a bunch up and we narrowed it down to one brand and two different styles from that brand v neck and scoop neck.

The regular GMG email is messed up so use the contact form to make a request and I’ll place the order for your request for any sizes/colors/styles that aren’t listed as in stock from the ordering page.  

Click here to use the GMG Store contact form- http://gmg.storenvy.com/contact

The three color GMG logo will be on the left chest, small and classy.

Here’s the very limited inventory I got just to try out sizes and quality-

V-Neck Super Crazy Soft and Lightweight

Sista Felicia and Amandacakes model our product samples (yet to be emblazoned with GMG Logo)

DSC09923

Features:

  • pre-shrunk 100% combed cotton jersey
  • 3.7-oz.
  • 36 singles for extreme softness
  • 1×1 baby rib-knit set-in collar
  • satin label

Black Med 1, Lg 1

Dark Gray Med 1, Lg 1, XL 1

Indigo Med 1 Lg 1 Lg

Light Pink Med 1

Scoop Neck Super Crazy Soft and Lightweight

Alicia DeWolfe models the Scoop Neck version

DSC09922

Features:

  • pre-shrunk 100% combed cotton jersey
  • 3.7-oz.
  • 36 singles for extreme softness
  • front cover-stitched 1×1 baby rib-knit set-in collar
  • satin label

Black Lg 1,XL 1

Navy Med 1, Lg 1, XL 1

Check to see if your preferred size/color/style combination is already in stock on the ordering page here- http://gmg.storenvy.com/

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Community Stuff 7/26/13

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Vintage Fashion of Cape Ann Exhibit

In Style: Two Centuries of Cape Ann Fashion” , vintage clothes from the collection of the Sandy Bay Historical Society, will be on exhibit at the Rockport Community House, Broadway, Friday August 16 through Sunday, August 18, from 10 to 4 p.m. The five dollar donation includes admission to the Sandy Bay Historical Society, 40 King St., Rockport and the Old Castle in Pigeon Cove.

Items range from a men’s beaded wedding vest from 1784 to a 1970s Indian caftan. The dresses include the wedding dresses treasured by Cape Ann women and their everyday sunbonnets

SUBMITTED BY SARAH CLARK, DIRECTOR OF COLLECTIONS, SANDY BAY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
email: revsarahclark@hotmail.com

Fundamentals New Moon Reunion Party
Tuesday, August 6th  7:30pm at the Dogbar, Main Street, Gloucester. Join us for a new moon celebration featuring the soulful vocals of Greg Coles, and the original members of the Fundamentals:  Ira Levine, Lon Mackey, Tucker Lindquist, Will Hunt and John Buckner, and friends.  Be prepared to dance and party.
Hi Joey, I hope this notice can get in for the next couple weeks. Thanks, Tucker Lindquist

History Alive! presents
Goodnight, Captain White
Salem’s hysterical history-mystery 

Written by Mark Stevick
Directed by Jill Miriam Rogati

at The Griffen Theatre, 7 Lynde Street, Salem, MA

July 26th-28th and August 2nd-4th

7:30 Fridays and Saturdays, 5:00 Sundays

Tickets: $23 general admission, $20 seniors

Ticket prices include bonbons and bubbly

poster for theatremania2

DESCRIPTION:

It’s 1830. "All friends and well wishers are invited to attend" the retirement party of Captain Joseph White’s favorite ship, the Caroline.  But this magnanimous invitation lures a host of enemies and ill-wishers into the perfect opportunity to murder the rich, old captain.  Allegiances twist and turn. Foibles are exposed, depravities revealed. It’s up to the audience and an under cover Daniel Webster to figure out who-dunnit and how. The creators of Cry Innocent give Salem a crime to laugh about.

"A hysterical interactive whodunnit"–Salem News

"Dashedly clever"–Georgetown Record

"quick-witted, playful"–Weekender

"A zany who-done-it. It captivates you. Four stars!"–The Eagle Tribune

Hi Joey, I wonder if you could post this event on your blog…
and wish the rain away while you’re at it!

byjeseipswichdays

Olde Ipswich Days
43rd Annual Art & Craft Fair • July 26-28, 2013 • Ipswich, MA 10-5 daily

On the Historic South Green, corner Rt 1A and 133, free entrance, free parking, awesome artists. I’ll be there with a huge sale on my linen clothing, ByJESE

Here’s a link to the event
http://oldeipswichdays.wordpress.com

Lost Dog

Hi Joey  wondering if you could post this for me.  I found a dog today running down Bass Ave in traffic.  The dogs name is Quizno.  I called the # on the tag a few times but got no answer I’m hoping they are not like me and don’t use their home phone. The dog is small seems to be maybe a miniature schnauzer. I had to go to work so the dog is at my house alone. I can be reached at 978-290-1228. Thanks. Kellie

“Spirit of Gloucester Cocktail Contests” Crowns Champion Mixologist- Felicia Grossi Of Alchemy Bistro

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Champion mixologist, Felicia Grossi Of Alchemy Bistro, was announced today at Ryan & Wood Distillery as the winner of the first “Spirit of Gloucester Cocktail Contests” with her drink “Simpler Tides”. The contest is being held at each of the 3 Downtown Gloucester Block Parties of 2013 and Block Party Organizers designed it to increase the synergy and camaraderie between the Sponsoring Supporter Ryan and Wood Distillery, local restaurants and the block party participants.

For More information about Gloucester’s Ryan and Wood Distillery Check Out Their Very Informative Website Here http://www.ryanandwood.com/

IMAG2413

Gloucester mixologists in the block party were challenged to create a winning cocktail using Ryan & Wood’s Folly Cove™ Rum and these restaurants rose to the challenge: Short & Main, Dogbar, Giuseppes, Ohana, Topside Grill, Alchemy and Lat43.

Ryan & Wood is a local distillery based in Blackburn Industrial Park whose owners Bob and Kathy Ryan are natives of Gloucester. The Ryans branded the name of each of the participating 7 restaurants on an oak cask which they placed side by side at their Block Party table on Main Street. Partygoers were encouraged to go and try a sample of the different drinks at each restaurant, which were also offered on the menus in a full-size for purchase. They then voted for their favorite concoction by placing a wooden nickel, distributed to the restaurants by the sponsor, in that restaurant’s cask.

Over 400 people voted in the spirited contest, which is an astonishing 20%, assuming even that 2000 people attended the first block party.

The contest was feverish and the vote was close. Grossi’s success was said to be due to her careful research of the rum, and a team effort in which Owner and Serenitee Executive Chef Jeff Calas suggested his favorite drink “Pain Killer” as the inspiration; Restaurant General Manager Danny came up with the drink name and Alchemy Executive Chef Scott Jensen added the final “Midas Touch” with his special, traditional Italian meringue which Grossi torched into a brulee before garnishing it with a fresh-cut flower.

Bob Ryan expressed his gratitude and amazement when he said “This was about Gloucester for Gloucester and everybody contributed. I had not realized how much the staff of each restaurant would have to do to get the thing going. I had friends tell me that they went into restaurants they had never been in, to try the cocktails, so I do think these great efforts were rewarded.”

Gloucester Downtown Block Party Committee Head Valerie Marcley commented “This contest fits into our block party criteria for any sponsor or event: It has to be free, fun and adds to the party. Stay tuned for the GDBP August 17th contest, featuring Ryan and Wood’s Beauport Gin™.”

The Demolition of a Rockport Landmark

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Fred Bodin Submits-

This iconic smokestack is being slowly taken down, in anticipation of a
housing development planned for the site. It’s scary to see how high up these workers are as they attack the masonry. The "Tool" closed in 1987 after almost a century of manufacturing drop-forged metal tools. Sailors will miss the navigational marker, but now we have GPS and cell phones. The black ring marked the very top of the tower. In the foreground is Pigeon Cove Harbor.

These workers have been working hard with powerful and noisy equipment, and this is how far they got. Implosion is not an option because of nearby homes, boats, cars, and its proximity to Route 127, the major and only road that circumnavigates this island of Cape Ann.

I’ll report on this project as things change, including the mandated public access to the shoreline and water.

Fred

News from Downtown Workplan

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Catherine Ryan Submits

News from Downtown Workplan

Hi Joey,

There has been a lot of interest in the Downtown Work Plan. There were 90+ people on site at City Hall for the City’s presentation with Utile, and good discussion. Cape Ann TV was filming. Ahead of time, individuals and organizations sent in a range of comments and concerns via email or testimonials. For example here was one (and a repeat one at that) muni wifi rant plea from Joey:

https://goodmorninggloucester.wordpress.com/2013/07/10/can-someone-explain-to-me-in-this-day-and-age-why-my-cell-phone-doesnt-have-service-in-the-heart-of-main-street-gloucester/

And have a read through the excellent detailed memo from the Downtown Development Commission.

No doubt the robust feedback was helped immeasurably by local media announcements. Thank you, GMG!

So, please come to the next meetings, and/or send along questions or comments to Tom  TDaniel@gloucester-ma.gov

Tom Daniel, Community Development Director, writes:

“As promised, we have posted the presentation to the City’s website. You may find it link to the presentation here: http://www.gloucester-ma.gov/index.aspx?NID=760&ART=2142&ADMIN=1. It is a large file and may take a couple of minutes to load. We will post future presentations to the website as well.”

Here are the dates for the next two public meetings to be held in the Kyrouz Auditorium of City Hall, from 6-8pm:

– Tuesday, August 20

– Tuesday, September 17

For More info:

http://www.gloucestertimes.com/local/x218352785/Downtowns-destiny

https://goodmorninggloucester.wordpress.com/2013/07/03/help-draft-the-next-chapter-of-downtowns-story/



DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION

c/o City Clerk’s Office, 9 Dale Avenue, Gloucester, MA   01930

gloucesterinfo@gmail.com

July 9, 2013

Mr. Drew Kane, AICP
50 Summer Street
Boston, MA   02110

Dear Drew:

Last evening, the Downtown Development Commission discussed what it would like to see changed, added to or modified in the downtown in anticipation of the upcoming visioning meetings.  I encouraged all members to attend but we also felt that we wanted to send you something in writing listing our thoughts.

The following are the items brought up by the Commission:

Parking Garage  Many meetings were held about this idea a number of years ago.  The idea was to build a deck on top of the current parking lot by the police station.  DPW Director Mike Hale was involved in discussions and probably still has this information.

Development of I4C2  It is the hope of the DDC that this can be developed in some way that would benefit downtown and not just be kept as a parking lot.

Empire Building  The continued blight of this building is a concern.

Police Station/Central Fire/YMCA  Members hoped that there would soon be a plan for the fate of these buildings.

Police Station Steps  The terrible condition of these steps roped off with police tape is not an attractive picture.  The DDC wondered if there was a short-term solution since any garage or selling of the police station would be long term.

Ornamental Lights/Brick Sidewalks  The only sections of Main Street without this streetscape are the middle sections, which were last renovated in the 1970’s.  Members would like to see this area tied into the look of the East End and West End.

Trees  The trees on Main Street have probably never been pruned.  Many hold both decorative old lights that no longer work and some have an abbreviated version of new lights.  We feel that there should be some work done on these trees.

West End Ornamental Lights  These lights were installed many years ago and the DDC thinks they have never been cleaned.  This is one of the reasons they appear to be so dark.  The DDC would like to see them cleaned and repainted, if necessary.

Benches  There are now a variety of styles of benches downtown.  We would like to work towards the replacement of the benches, many of which are wood and splintered, to have one consistent look.

Trash Barrels  The DDC bought a number of black trash barrels for downtown and they are showing their age.  We would like to re-examine the type of barrels and work on eventually replacing them.  Apparently a couple of them were done in by snowplows this past winter.

Preserve America Signs  The Commission would like to continue this signage program.  We also think there needs to be some type of protocol in place when one is damaged or disappears as has happened.

Gilham & Gander Study  The DDC would like this study reintroduced as it had many worthwhile aspects.

Stacy Boulevard  The conditions of the railings are in terrible shape and are to the point of being dangerous.  Hundreds of people walk this area daily.  We understand that this would be a long term and expensive project but it needs to be stated.  Having new grass and a working sprinkler system on the Boulevard is a step in the right direction as it is a gateway into Gloucester for so many.   

Drew, hope these are helpful.  Looking forward to seeing you Wednesday night.

Sincerely,

Suzanne Silveira
Chair
DDC

cc:  Tom Daniel

A Huge Thank You To Our Buddy EJ and The Castle Manor Inn

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

EJ put on a spectacular show at Castle Manor Inn, curating the East Meets West show showcasing 8 of of fellow East Gloucester artists traversing the Great City and showcasing in West Gloucester’s castle Manor Inn.

First off the castle Manor Inn might be my first choice for a summer soirée out on that back covered deck.  the views, the set-up, the food- all spectacular.  Joey C A+ recommendation.

But on top of that I can’t thank our buddy EJ for all the hard work she put in curating this show.

I don’t sing her praises nearly enough.  But she really is one very special lady for all she does not only for herself but for everyone around her.

Thanks Laura Baker from Castle Manor and Thanks EJ

You rock!

Killer Beer Battered Fish Tacos at The Castle Manor Inn

DSC09927

Sail GHS Summer Sailing Clinics

Posted on by Joey Ciaramitaro

Hi Joey,

I’m sure you have seen the kids on the Sail GHS Team out in the harbor having a great time racing in all weather throughout the year.  During the summer months, they are offering Summer Sailing Clinics in their

new, C 420 sailboats and even in their newly acquired Laser!  Level II Sailing Coach, Guy Fiero is at the helm and with assistance from his very, dedicated team of volunteers.  This is the biggest bargain for sailing on Cape Ann at  ONLY $85 per week, Monday through Friday 8 – 11:30am.  Five days a week and still time in the afternoon to hit the beach!  Kids with some sailing experience ages 10 and up are welcome.  Classes meet at Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center and there is no need to pre-register!  Just bring yourself, your friends, and your life jackets if you have them.  Sailors should arrive promptly at 8:00 am as space is limited.  Discounts available. 

All proceeds from this ongoing fundraiser go to Sail GHS, a non-profit organization to help defray operating costs and provide the youth of Cape Ann and beyond with this wonderful sailing opportunity!

Please contact sailghs@yahoo.com or Guy Fiero at 978-290-7894 with any questions.

Thanks so much for sharing!

Becca Campbell

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