North Shore Post

With another round of summer heat settling over eastern Massachusetts this week, cities and towns north of Boston — including Peabody and Salem — are opening air-conditioned cooling centers to give residents a break from the swelter. A heat advisory is in effect for the region, and public health officials are urging residents, especially older adults, young children, and anyone without reliable air conditioning, to take the heat seriously. Why Cooling Centers Matter According to guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health, heat-related illness in Massachusetts becomes significantly more common once temperatures climb past 90 degrees. Community cooling centers — typically set up in libraries, senior centers, and town halls — offer a free, air-conditioned place for residents to escape the heat during the hottest parts of the day. The state recommends that these spaces be accessible to the public, offer seating and chill...

Mark your calendars: former President Barack Obama is coming to Salem State University. The 44th president of the United States will take the stage on September 21, 2026 , as the featured speaker for this year's Salem State Series. About the Salem State Series Founded in 1982, the Salem State Series is one of the oldest and most prestigious high-profile speaker series in the country. Over more than four decades, it has brought a remarkable roster of world leaders, artists, athletes, and intellectuals to the university's North Shore campus, drawing thousands of patrons each year. The self-supporting series is made possible through the generosity of corporate and individual sponsors and remains a cornerstone of the university's public education mission. Past speakers have included an extraordinary range of names — from sitting and former U.S. presidents like Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton, to cultural and civic icons such as Maya Angelou, ...

Because the North Shore has such a jagged, accessible coastline, the waterfront displays are legendary. Here are the best spots to watch the fireworks on the North Shore this year: 1. Salem: Derby Wharf (Saturday, July 4) If you want the full festive atmosphere without leaving town, Derby Wharf at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site is the place to be. The Vibe: Massive community celebration. The Details: Food trucks and live entertainment kick off at 5:30 PM. At 9:15 PM, the fireworks launch over the harbor, perfectly synced to a live performance by the Hillyer Festival Orchestra playing the 1812 Overture . Pro-Tip: Parking downtown will be a nightmare by late afternoon. Walk down early, or set up blankets near the Salem Willows or Winter Island if you want a slightly more relaxed view of the harbor sky ⚠️ A quick heads-up on local rules: Salem has really cracked down on any private fireworks use this year with dedicated enforcement units and heavy fines ($200 for use...