The Memorial Day weekend is usually the marker for the start of the city's boating season — and a quick glance at the Merimack River shows the tradition continues. The Crescent Yacht Club and various marinas have their docks out. City leaders hope the increase in boating in the last few years will have a rippled effect up river, drawing boaters to the downtown docks designed to link them to restaurants and other businesses in the heart of Haverhill.
There was a lot of politicking going on last week — and it promises to pick up. Republican candidates for state and federal offices attended a meeting of the Haverhill Republican City Committee on May 24 at the public library, where they spoke to more than 75 area Independents and Republicans. City Republican Committee Chairman William Ryan said it was an enthusiastic meeting and a huge success. Speakers included: Sam Meas and Haverhill School Committeeman Shaun Toohey, candidates for state Senate; Maura Ciardiello, candidate for the governor's council; as well as Gary Fowler, Lenny Mirra and Karin Rhoton, candidates for state representative. Cheryl Ferguson was elected secretary of the Republican City Committee. City Councilors William Macek and Colin LePage made appearances.
Speaking of politics ... The Lamplighter couldn't help but notice four large blue-and-white "Manzi'' campaign signs in first-floor windows in the Landmark Building on Merrimack Street. They are seeking support for former Methuen Mayor William Manzi, who is running for state Senate. Ironically, the signs are in the same building that houses the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, whose president James Jajuga, was considering a Senate run before deciding against it earlier this month.
As temperatures consistently reach the upper 70s and even the 80s, the opening of Plug Pond to swimmers will be a welcome event. Haverhill's only public beach is at the pond, and is a favorite cooling-off spot for inner-city families. Look for an announcement soon about the beach's opening, which typically coincides with the late June closing of schools for the summer.
