Author: Pat D

Sometimes GMG Jim and I get to deliver podcast prizes and meet some great listeners/viewers of the blog and podcast. Such was the case as we delivered Bill Bartlett’s podcast prize of a beautiful mug from Fred Bodin’s collection. Turns out we have “small world” connections based in upstate NY, so that was a big bonus. Listen to the podcast and share it and you are also eligible for a prize (when we have them) when you comment “shared” during the livestream.

Here’s an update on the progress at the former Mobil station on Essex Ave in Gloucester which is being developed into a new location for Reverie73. Reverie73 advertises itself as “more than a cannabis dispensary” so it will be interesting to see how this comes along. Here’s a link for further info on Reverie73. Progress is being made but I don’t have an expected completion timeline.

Sharing traffic advisory information provided by Gloucester Police today Monday April 3 2023:

Registration for the upcoming Shingles and COVID Bivalent Booster vaccine clinic this week is preferred but walk ins will also be accepted. Thanks, Carol, for the update.

We stopped by Oliver’s Harbor on Main Street to check out their new menu and meet friends for a drink. Our friends wanted to try the pizza and we were mostly looking to visit in a comfortable setting. We were greeted by bartender Scott, who commented on Jim and Joey’s recent live post riding a CATA-On-Demand bus. Turns out bartender Scott was also their CATA driver Scott! Small world. Thanks Scott for treating us well at the bar as well as being an outstanding driver. Here’s the link to the post in case you missed it.

Anyhow, our friends shared a pizza which you can see here. I had the bruschetta and Jim tried the duck dumplings. The setting cannot be beat for a quiet conversation with friends or family. Thanks Oliver’s!

Thanks to Awesome Gloucester, there’s a wonderful new mural on the Harbor Loop. The Doryman’s Mural Project is public art project that was recently unveiled at Maritime Glouceser. The mural is by Studio Fresh with permission from The Doris O. Hoyne Revocable Trust. It’s intended to remind us of the critical role dorymen have played. This piece has been recreated by StudioFresh with permission from The Doris O. Hoyne Revocable Trust. Additional information can be found at Maritime Gloucester.

Sharing news from the new Poseidon’s Italian Kitchen Facebook page that they have reopened on the Boulevard! Here’s a link to a menu and other information.

Pat D’s Photos has a new product just perfect for spring spruce up or perhaps Easter baskets: good quality nylon flags 28″ x 40″ ready to hang. Image printed on both sides as you can see in the video. Spring is coming so maybe you’d like to refresh your outdoor look. There are 4 images currently available in limited quantities. More are on the way, but if needed for Easter please place order soon. Plus shipping or free delivery to Cape Ann. Additional images at Pat D’s Photos and Adventures on Facebook OR online at Pat D’s Photos.

Today’s front page of the Boston Globe features our mild mannered boss Joey C ! If you squint you can find Scottie Mac and Jimmy. Way to represent. Thanks for the heads-up neighbor Brianne!

Even though the day was dark and drear, the Sail GHS program is fully underway for another season. Definite bright spots out in the harbor and a certain sign of spring. More info on the program can be round here.

We ventured out to the Georgetown rookery to check on the Great Blue Herons and it appears they have begun to return to their nests once again! Another sure sign of spring. Though it was chilly and dreary on this visit, I saw about 7 herons in nests seemingly awaiting their partners.

The beautiful Phyllis A is resting and waiting for its next transition at the Rocky Neck Railways. The Phyllis A organization recently announced it was ceasing its efforts at restoration after 17 valiant years. Story here. In the meantime, we can still admire her.

We have been fortunate to come across this pair of eagles in the West Gloucester/Magnolia area. I feel pretty certain it is the same pair. The adult is sporting two bands so that’s a big clue. But I am feeling a little anxious about the other adult presumably part of this family since we haven’t seen a second adult yet. Anyhow, (thanks to a heads up from our landlord) we finally caught a pair hanging out on a dreary day recently. One was screeching quite loudly as we approached which is an amazing sound. As you will see, the adult took off with a branch as if for a nest.

The other photos are taken in West Gloucester a day or so later near the river. The adult seemed to be trying to teach the juvenile to hunt. It went out to the river, got a fish and brought it to shore. When the juvenile joined up, the adult wasn’t willing to share and landed in a tree very nearby where I was observing. You can see the prey in the eagle’s talons in this cropped image. Welcome back, my friends. Stay a while please. Pat D’s Photos and Adventures on Facebook has further details and images. Check it out and maybe give it a follow if you like what you see.

We came upon this beautiful coyote recently at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. To our surprise, as we watched, it came closer and closer to those of us along the roadway. It carefully calculated risk and distance then eventually took the leap in order to cross the roadway. I guess it wanted to go to the beach: which is why this coyote crossed the road! It really is a gorgeous example of coyote. For additional story details and more images, please check out Pat D’s Photos and Adventures on Facebook. There’s an extra surprise there!

I have been surprised by many different scenes as I look out over the marsh from our apartment, but this sight is currently holding the number 1 spot for surprises: someone climbing the old Coast Guard tower apparently for kicks.

You may have seen that the historic replica of the Tea Party Ship Beaver recently launched from the Maritime Railways. Some wondered if she would return. The updated location is just across the harbor at the Marine Railways on Rocky Neck. She looks pretty smart sitting there along with so many other fine vessels.

As many of you know, Sclafani’s Bakery on Washington St recently underwent some inside renovation for the benefit of its many customers. New flooring and a new seating area are among the improvements. They are back and better than ever! Stop down and check them out.

We have long been intending to stop at Googans Galley on Martin St in Essex and we finally took the short detour off our route to stop in. It was very well worth the visit! Matthew greeted us warmly and took Jim’s order for a scone (yum). I picked up some mulling spices which I am unable to find elsewhere. The location is larger than it appears from the outside, bright and open. There are a few options for those that want to eat and sip while watching the world go by outside. One enthusiastic customer was doing just that as we arrived. It’s a great take for treats, sandwiches and some prepared foods. Don’t forget to check out the freezer case and the pantry items. Well worth a stop!

Harriet Webster Pier on the Harbor Loop was abuzz with activity this morning as the historic replica Beaver was launched into the harbor. The process was understandably slow and careful but enthralling all the same. Following please find 3 clips demonstrating the various steps taken with this exciting launch. All hands were on deck and ready to assist including the Meridian and crew, who did an outstanding job.

If you only have time for one clip, I’d suggest spending it on the third and final clip. Great examples of teamwork and skills.

Sure signs of spring at Stage Fort Park: Generous Gardeners at work, crocuses in bloom and road construction.