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Showing posts from June, 2026

Massachusetts Moves to Stop Wrong-Way Drivers

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The deaths and injuries on Route 1 have finally pushed the state to act — and the technology to prevent the next tragedy already exists. The stretch of Route 1 running through Lynnfield, Saugus, and Peabody is a road most North Shore residents know well. It's a commuter artery, a late-night errand run, a shortcut home. On two mornings this spring, just weeks apart, it became the scene of tragedies that shook an entire region — and may ultimately change how Massachusetts fights one of its most persistent road safety failures. The first crash came at 2:04 a.m. on May 6. Massachusetts State Police Trooper Kevin Trainor, 30, a Salem native and three-year veteran of the force assigned to the Danvers Barracks, had just finished his shift when word came in about a wrong-way driver heading south in the northbound lanes of Route 1. Trainor responded without hesitation. Minutes later, his unmarked SUV was struck head-on by the wrong-way driver, Hernan Marrero, 50, of Roslindale. Both me...

Free Gym Access This Summer for North Shore Teens Through Planet Fitness

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For high school students on Boston's North Shore, summer often means fewer structured activities and less access to the resources that keep them active. This June, Planet Fitness hopes to change that — at least when it comes to fitness. The national gym chain has announced the return of its High School Summer Pass® program, now in its sixth year, offering free gym access to teens ages 14 to 19 at more than 2,900 participating locations across the U.S. and Canada from June 1 through August 31. For North Shore residents, that means locations in Saugus and Salem are among the closest options — both easily reachable from towns like Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Marblehead, and Beverly. Registration is open now at PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass, and teens under 18 must sign up with a parent or guardian. The timing is no coincidence. A nationwide study commissioned by Planet Fitness found that cost is one of the biggest obstacles standing between teenagers and a regular workout routine. Nearl...

Classic Cars, Strawberry Shortcakes, and Small-Town Charm Highlight Topsfield Community Day Saturday, June 13

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Downtown Topsfield will be filled with classic automobiles, live music, strawberry shortcakes, local artisans, and family-friendly activities on Saturday, June 13, as two beloved community traditions come together for a day-long celebration. The annual Vintage Auto Show and the 57th Annual Strawberry Festival will transform the town center into a vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors alike, offering something for every age and interest. Vintage Auto Show Returns to Downtown Car enthusiasts are invited to showcase their vehicles at the Vintage Auto Show, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the lawn in front of the Meetinghouse on Main Street, across from the Town Common. Sponsored by the Topsfield Meetinghouse Foundation, the informal event welcomes all makes, models, and years of automobiles. There are no entry fees, no judging, and no prizes—just an opportunity for car owners to share their vehicles with fellow enthusiasts and the public. Organizers encourage exhi...

The Race to Replace Seth Moulton: A Crowded Field Emerges in Massachusetts' 6th Congressional District

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The political landscape on Massachusetts' North Shore is undergoing a dramatic transformation as Congressman Seth Moulton seeks higher office. After announcing his campaign for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Ed Markey, Moulton set off a scramble among ambitious candidates hoping to represent the 6th Congressional District in Washington. The district, which stretches across much of the North Shore and includes communities such as Salem, Beverly, Gloucester, Andover, and Middleton, has long been considered a Democratic stronghold. Nevertheless, the open seat has attracted a diverse group of contenders with backgrounds spanning government, technology, business, law, public service, and the military. With the primary election approaching, voters are being presented with one of the most competitive congressional races Massachusetts has seen in years. A Diverse Democratic Field Bethany Andres-Beck A software engineer and Democratic activist from Middleton, Bethany Andres-...

North Shore Set to Honor Juneteenth 2026: Complete Guide to Local Events and Festivals

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                   Beverly Beverly has locked in a great afternoon commemoration this year, and much like its neighbor Danvers, the city is hosting its main community gathering on the Thursday afternoon right before the holiday weekend begins. Beverly Juneteenth Celebration & Flag Raising The event is organized by Mayor Michael Cahill’s office in collaboration with the Beverly Human Rights Committee to honor Black history, culture, and community joy. When: Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 5:15 PM Where: In front of Beverly City Hall (191 Cabot St, Beverly) What to Expect: A formal community flag-raising ceremony. The program is heavily focused on community voices and features spoken word poetry, musical performances, reflections from local North Shore youth, and remarks from local civic leaders. Danvers Danvers has locked in a great plan for its 6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, and it's happen...