Haverhill

Haverhill Invites Public Comment on Plans for New Downtown Plaza in Redevelopment Zone

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The public is asked to weigh in next week on the design and features of a new public plaza in the heart of downtown Haverhill. An overview of the project, a centerpiece of the $160 million White’s Corner redevelopment by Salvatore N. Lupoli, will be followed by opportunities by the public to shape its look and purpose. In an email to downtown abutters, city Assistant Economic Development Director Pamela Price outlined the expectations. “When the Merrimack Street Redevelopment project was approved, one of the key elements in the plan was a public plaza connecting Merrimack Street to Park Way. The overall goal is to provide a year-round public space for residents and visitors alike.

Community Spotlight

‘Longest Run’ Next Month Brings Ski Competition and After Party to Benefit L’Arche Boston North

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From the people that brought you the “Longest Table” of dining in downtown Haverhill comes the “Longest Run,” a ski competition and after party next month. Proceeds from the fundraiser, a Ski-A-Thon and Après Ski Party at Ski Bradford, benefits L’Arche Boston North, which provides homes for life for adult children with disabilities. “We are so thrilled to partner with the incredible team over at Ski Bradford to host this exciting event. This year marks 75 years of Ski Bradford and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate them and all they do for the greater community than to host an event that brings people together across differences to inspire a more inclusive community,” says L’Arche Boston North Executive Director Jennifer Matthews. It takes place Saturday, Feb.

Beacon Hill News

Sen. Payano Leads Trade Mission to Dominican Republic Tuesday; Could Attract Physicians

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State Senators, led by area Sen. Pavel M. Payano and Sen. President Karen E. Spilka, plan to visit the Dominican Republic Tuesday as part of a four-day trade mission. The delegation, which also includes of other senators, “will focus on strengthening economic relationships, with planned meetings with industry and government leaders across various sectors to explore trade, investment, and workforce development opportunities,” Spilka’s office said in a release. Specifically, her office said, among areas of focus is the new licensure pathway for internationally trained doctors to practice in Massachusetts, which became law as part of last year’s economic development package. “The visit will also celebrate the deep cultural ties between the Commonwealth and its Dominican community, one of the largest and most vibrant immigrant groups in the state. The Senate’s visit will build on cultural connections and explore ways to deepen the partnership between Massachusetts and the Dominican Republic,” the release added.

Haverhill

District Attorney Confirms Body of 61-Year-Old Man Found Outside Haverhill YMCA

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Editor’s note: WHAV cautions listeners and readers to listen and look for the names of official sources when following social media posts and even some other news organizations. Absent attribution, first reports are often no more than rumors or speculation. WHAV takes care to obtain trustworthy information and name official, reputable and reliable sources. Online comments are often erroneous and initial first responder communications are subject to on-scene verification. A 61-year-old man was found dead Thursday night outside the Haverhill YMCA in downtown Haverhill.

Education

Communities to Meet on Whittier Tech’s Future; Former Methuen Mayor DiZoglio to Moderate

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After gaining the state’s blessing last month, officials are taking the first big step toward uniting area communities behind a replacement Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School. Whittier Tech Superintendent Maureen Lynch told WHAV this week that representatives of all 11 communities that send students to the school will meet to discuss goals and attempt to bridge differences. The Municipal Working Group, as it is called, includes mayors, town managers, city councilors and town select board members. “We want to make sure that everyone feels like they’re a part of whatever we move forward with. Whether they agree with it or disagree, we just want to make sure everyone feels like they’re a part of what we’re trying to do,” she said.

Business Bulletin

Piano Woodworker, Teaching, Other Jobs to Feature at MakeIt Haverhill’s Job Fair Jan. 23

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MakeIt Haverhill’s next job fair features such positions as juvenile justice youth development specialist, dietary aide, toddler and preschool teachers, woodworker and entry level sander at a piano factory, school van drivers, postal carrier and others. The job fair takes place Thursday, Jan. 23, from 3-5 p.m., at MakeIt Haverhill, 301 Washington St., Haverhill. The fairs provide an opportunity for individuals to connect with local employers in a welcoming environment. It also allows employers to engage with potential job seekers and network with potential partners.

Community Spotlight

Comedian David Shikes Entertains at Women’s City Club of Haverhill

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The Women’s City Club of Haverhill will host a meeting that includes a light lunch and a performance by comedian David Shikes of Atkinson, N.H.

It takes place Tuesday, Jan. 21, noon, at the Advent Christian Church, 160 Carleton St., Haverhill. The program includes a brief meeting, followed by lunch and entertainment. Those planning to attend are asked to contact Judy Dionne at 978-372-8837 to assist with refreshment planning. For more information, contact Teresa Gagnon, club president, at 978-457-6928.

Business Bulletin

Haverhill Chamber Names River Run Business of the Year; Breakfast Honors More Than Two Dozen

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River Run, the mutual holding company behind Pentucket Bank and Newburyport Bank, was recently selected as the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year and will be honored with other award winners in February. Haverhill Chamber’s 34th Annual Business Awards also recognizes Craft Haverhill, Benedetti’s Deli, Haverhill Public Library’s Friends Shop and volunteer Christine Kwitchoff, among more than two dozen honorees. “We are so happy to honor these outstanding businesses and community supporters this year,” said Chamber interim President and CEO Kate Martin. “This event allows the Chamber to sing the praises of the hard-working people and organizations who serve the Greater Haverhill region.”

The breakfast, supported by presenting Sponsor Haverhill Bank, takes place Friday, Feb 7, from 8-9:30 a.m., at Atkinson Country Club, 85 Country Club Drive, Atkinson, N.H.

Besides business of the year, winners in other categories include Arts and Culture, Craft Haverhill; Education, Merrimac Heights Academy; Family-Owned Business,  Benedetti’s Deli; Health,  Anna Jaques Hospital; Pioneer of the Year, Haverhill Promise; Restaurant, Barrio; Retail/Wholesale: Haverhill Public Library Friends Shop; Rising Star, The Roma; Rookie of the Year, Parkland Medical; Service for Profit:  AAA; Woman in Business,  Berliann Gomez of Humble Healings; Volunteer of the Year, Christine Kwitchoff; Regional Impact: Amtrak Downeaster; and John E. Ratka Award, Whitney Scofield. The breakfast also honors the 12 businesses highlighted as “Business of the Month” for 2024—Ski Bradford, Anna Jaques Hospital, Haverhill Public Library, Paul Francis Bridal, The Winged Rabbit, North Shore Bank, Zorvino Vineyards, Wicked Axe, Tuscan Brands, Exit Factor, Broco Energy and Amtrak Downeaster.