Community Spotlight

Learn How to Change Your Name with Social Security

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Methuen’s Nevins Memorial Library is offering a presentation from a representative of the U.S. Social Security Administration on how people may legally change their name. The session outlines the necessary documentation, required steps and what to expect during the process. The talk takes place Thursday, Jan. 23, from 3-4:30 p.m., in the Garden Room, Nevins Library, 305 Broadway, Methuen. For more information or to register, visit nevinslibrary.org.

Haverhill

Officials Urge Caution in Area Communities Where Open Burning is Allowed Through May 1

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While open burning season began last week in area communities, state officials are urging caution after, what they called, an unprecedented fall fire season in Massachusetts and as wildfires rage in California. State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bonnie Heiple and Chief Fire Warden David Celino of the Department of Conservation and Recreation said residents should follow restrictions on open burning that are imposed at the state and local levels. “Even where burning is authorized, a permit from your local fire department is always required in advance and it’s your responsibility to be able to extinguish the fire on a moment’s notice. For two years in a row, Massachusetts residents have lost their lives when they couldn’t contain their fires. Please make safety your priority when burning,” Davine said in a release.

Region

Register of Deeds Duff Urges Residents to Enroll in Free Property Watch to Guard Against Fraud

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New Southern Essex County Register of Deeds Eileen R. Duff is calling for property owners to sign up for the free Property Watch service to help guard against fraudulent document recordings. Duff said property and mortgage fraud is fast growing and has taken place in Essex County. “For most of us, our home is our most valuable asset and we want to help you protect that asset by providing you with a free method of being notified if a document is recorded with the Registry of Deeds that affects your property,” she said. The Property Watch service automatically sends residents an email at the end of the recording day if any filings match their name and address. These include deeds, mortgages, orders of notice, foreclosure deeds, universal commercial code/financing statements, mechanics liens, statements and notices of contract.

Region

State Veterans Office Takes Submissions for ‘Acts of Service’ Ahead of Fall Recognition

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The state Executive Office of Veterans Services launched its “2025 Acts of Service” campaign Monday to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and promote support for veterans in need across Massachusetts. A year-long effort will culminate in a statewide day of service during office’s annual Veterans Week celebration from Nov. 10 through 14. A dedicated campaign website allows individuals to submit acts of service, share inspiring stories and celebrate achievements. “Dr. King’s vision for equity and service continues to inspire us all,” said Veterans Secretary Jon Santiago.

Community Spotlight

Groveland Council on Aging ‘Getting to Know Dementia’ Series Goes Beyond Care Giving

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Groveland Council on Aging, working with Monarch Care Partners, is offering a four-part, monthly “Getting to Know Dementia” series to shed light on the disease and offer help. Classes are designed for caregivers, families and individuals curious about their own cognitive health as they age. Organizers say the free program goes beyond understanding dementia and equips participants with practical skills to navigate challenges and foster meaningful relationships. “This series isn’t just for caregivers,” said Groveland Council on Aging Director Alyssa A. Lee. “It’s also for anyone who wants to learn more about how the brain changes with age and how to better connect with loved ones—or even prepare for their own aging journey.

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.

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.

Crime

Lawrence Man Pleads Guilty to Stealing COVID-19 Aid and Late Dad’s Social Security 22 Years

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A 57-year-old Lawrence man pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court in Boston to fraudulently obtaining and misusing COVID-19 relief money and stealing Social Security benefits over 22 years totaling more than $200,000. Randolph Dominguez pleaded guilty to wire fraud and theft of government money. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for May 21. Prosecutors say Dominguez submitted a loan application in June 2020, on behalf of an interpreter business he owned and operated, Dominguez SP Interpreters, to the Small Business Administration under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. He obtained $74,900 in July 2020 when he falsely claimed his gross business revenue was $600,000 the previous year, but the business made only $16,989.