ITEM PHOTO BY SPENSER HASAK
Thomas Costin, 90, served as Lynn’s mayor from 1955-1961.

By THOMAS GRILLO

NAHANT — It’s a meeting former Lynn Mayor Thomas Costin will never forget.

U.S. Rep. John F. Kennedy was in the bathtub at his Bowdoin Street apartment on Beacon Hill easing his chronic back pain when Costin was ushered into the bathroom by the congressman’s aid.
“Jack told me to sit on the hopper,” said Costin, 90. “He told me of his plans to expand his base beyond the 8th Congressional District and asked if my family would host a gathering at my home.”

That 1947 encounter would begin a close friendship that ended when Kennedy was assassinated in 1963.

On Thursday, June 1, Lynn Museum/LynnArts and Essex Media Group (EMG) will host “Jack and Tom: The Friendship of President John F. Kennedy and Mayor Thomas Costin.”

The conversation with Costin will be moderated by EMG publisher Ted Grant. A question and answer session and a brief reception will follow.

After serving as Lynn’s youngest mayor from 1955-1961, JFK named Costin Lynn’s postmaster, a position he held for more than three decades through seven presidents until his retirement in 1992.

His most vivid memories were of his conversations with a young JFK, who would later become the 35th president of the United States.

Following that first meeting with Kennedy in his bathroom, Costin came away thinking JFK was on track for a White House run.

“I thought he was fantastic,” he said. “He had that way about him, he had the personality and people were fascinated that he was one of 10 kids. How many people would want to talk to you in the bathroom? It didn’t seem strange at all, his back was bothering him and that’s how he got relief.”

Costin described Kennedy as a humble guy with a big smile.

“When he talked to you, it was like you were the only person in the room,” he said. “Unlike other pols who are always looking around the room to see who else they can talk to, Kennedy looked right at you.”

NSCC job fair helps veterans

When Costin was mayor in 1956, he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention when JFK failed to secure the nomination for vice president under Adlai Stevenson.

But that set the stage for Kennedy to run for president, Costin said.

Two years later, when Kennedy ran for reelection to the Senate. Costin was named to the campaign staff.

“We told voters they were not just voting to re-elect a senator, but possibly a presidential contender,” he said.

After Kennedy won the close race for president against Richard Nixon in 1960, Costin was invited to the Oval Office. The president-elect asked him what job he wanted in the new administration.

“I told him I wanted to be postmaster in Lynn,” he said. “What? The president asked in shock. Postmaster? I told him if he would please just do that I’d be happy.”

On Nov. 22, 1963, Costin was having lunch at home when he heard the news on TV that the president had been assassinated.

“I cried,” he said.

Tickets for the June 1 event are $35, $50 for a pair. All proceeds benefit the Lynn Museum/LynnArts organization. For more information, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please call Drew Russo at (781) 581-6200 or drew@lynnmuseum.org.

Thomas Grillo can be reached at tgrillo@itemlive.com.

All address information, particularly arrests, reflect police records. In the event of a perceived inaccuracy, it is the sole responsibility of the concerned party to contact the relevant police department and have the department issue a notice of correction to The Daily Item. Corrections or clarifications will not be made without express notice of change from the arresting police department.

LYNN

Arrests

Mark Dipaolo, 25, of 112 S Hampton St., Boston, was arrested and charged with Class A drug possession and on a warrant charge of trespassing at 4:27 p.m. Tuesday.

Jose Rodriguez, of 153 Intervale Road, Dorchester, was arrested on a warrant charge of witness intimidation at 7:45 a.m. Wednesday.

Jose Sanchez, 33, of 44 Rockingham St., was arrested and charged with Class B drug possession and possession of a knife with a blade over 2 ½ inches at 3:31 p.m. Tuesday.

Roy Seawright, 27, of 11 Courtney St. Fall River, was arrested and charged with interfering with a police officer, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest at 7:38 p.m. Tuesday.

Resean Smith, 30, of 177 Essex St., was arrested and charged with carrying a loaded firearm weapon, receiving stolen property, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and on warrant charges of unlawful improper storage of a firearm, receiving a firearm with a defaced number, carrying a loaded firearm weapon, daytime breaking and entering for a felony, attempt to commit a crime, assault and battery, and assault with a dangerous weapon at 7:25 p.m. Tuesday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 12:53 p.m. Tuesday at Sagamore and Washington streets; at 1:35 p.m. Tuesday at 45 Boston St.; at 5:46 p.m. Tuesday at Parkland Avenue and Richardson Road; at 10:40 a.m. Wednesday at 732 Western Ave.; at 10:42 a.m. Wednesday at Commercial and South Common streets.

A report of a motor vehicle accident with personal injury at 1:37 p.m. Tuesday at 45 Boston St.; at 4:51 p.m. Tuesday at 10 Ford St.; at 11:16 p.m. Tuesday at 50 Lynnway.

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 6:43 p.m. Tuesday at 16 Shepard St.

Assaults

A report of an assault and battery at 5:28 p.m. Tuesday on Munroe Street.

Breaking and Entering

A report of a breaking and entering at 8:42 a.m. Wednesday at 50 South Common St.; at 9:36 a.m. Wednesday at 10 Story Ave.

A report of a motor vehicle breaking and entering at 10:41 a.m. Wednesday at 111 Washington St.

Complaints

A report of a disturbance at 3:09 p.m. Tuesday at Baltimore and Nahant streets; at 7:23 p.m. Tuesday at 160 Linwood St.; at 4:38 a.m. Wednesday at 41 Light St.; at 7:45 a.m. Wednesday at 25 Hamilton Ave.; at 8:31 a.m. Wednesday at 50 South Common St.; at 8:48 a.m. Wednesday at 27 Beyer Place; at 8:56 a.m. Wednesday at Ernie’s Harvest Time at 597 Essex St.

Overdose

A report of an overdose at 12:20 p.m. Tuesday at 36 Farrar St.; at 1:49 p.m. Tuesday on Bay View Avenue; at 4:15 p.m. Tuesday on Washington Street.

Theft

A report of a larceny at 2:09 p.m. Tuesday at 68 Exchange St.; at 3:37 p.m. Tuesday at 135 Ocean St.; at 4:33 p.m. Tuesday at 88 Oakwood Ave.; at 10:41 a.m. Wednesday at 88 Green St.; at 10:44 a.m. Wednesday at 13 Essex St.; at 11:35 a.m. Wednesday at 15 Franklin St.

Vandalism

A report of motor vehicle vandalism at 2:04 p.m. Tuesday at 58 Maple St.; at 9:13 a.m. Wednesday at 9 Milton St.

Police log: 5-10-2017

MARBLEHEAD

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 7:53 a.m. Tuesday on Humphrey Street.

Complaints

A report of suspicious activity at 1:52 p.m. Tuesday on Rolleston Road. A caller reported she was the friend of the owner, and was just shown a circle that was etched into the glass, as if someone tried to cut it with a glass cutter.

PEABODY

Arrests

Kimberly M. Carrasquillo, 26, of 114 Blaisdell St., Apt. 1, Haverhill, was arrested and charged with shoplifting by asportation at 3:11 p.m. Tuesday.

Destiny Love Herrera, 18, of 77 Oak St. Lawrence, was arrested and charged with shoplifting by concealing merchandise and on a warrant at 3:11 p.m. Tuesday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 2:32 p.m. Tuesday at Route 128 South and 208 Andover St.; at 4:28 p.m. Tuesday at 101 Main St. and 2 Washington St.; at 10:13 p.m. Tuesday at 550 Lowell St. and 232 Newbury St.

Complaints

A caller reported an elderly man hitchhiking at 2:25 p.m. Tuesday at 76 Lake St.

A report of suspicious activity at 4:14 p.m. Tuesday at Stop & Shop at 19 Howley St. A caller reported there was a man looking into vehicles and approaching women

A caller reported his neighbor was destroying things on his property at 5:39 p.m. Tuesday at 8 Larrabee Terrace.

A homeowner reported the contractors that are building a house next to his keep knocking down his fence and leaving trash in his yard at 5:57 p.m. Tuesday at 22 Buford Road

A report of a disturbance at 11:54 p.m. Tuesday on Sherman Street.

Theft

A report of a larceny at 4:36 p.m. Tuesday at Mini of Peabody at 209 Andover St. The manager of the dealership reported a sign and memory card were missing from the property; at 4:45 p.m. Tuesday at Omni Care at 2 Technology Drive. Security reported an employee admitted to stealing some prescription drugs.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 7:37 p.m. Tuesday at Nordstrom at 210N Andover St. Taken from a vehicle was a purse and work computer.

REVERE

Arrests

Fatima Ouakrim, 20, of 92 Proctor Ave., was arrested on a warrant at 6:39 a.m. Tuesday.

Zachary Roldan, 22, of 170 Bellingham Ave., was arrested and charged with unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and Class D drug possession with intent to distribute at 5:46 p.m. Tuesday.

Chris M. Silva, 25, of 37 Davis St., was arrested and charged with motor vehicle operator refuses to identify self, disorderly conduct and crosswalk violation at 3:18 p.m. Tuesday.

Dominic I. Vega, 19, of 102 Blossom St., Chelsea, was arrested and charged with OUI liquor, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, racing a motor vehicle, wanton destruction of property and leaving an accident scene after property damage at 10:13 p.m. Tuesday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 4:15 a.m. Monday at Wonderland Auto on North Shore Road; at 6:34 a.m. Monday at Broadway and Revere Street; at 5:15 p.m. Monday at Ward Street and Broadway; at 7:02 a.m. Tuesday at Endicott and Crest avenues; at 11:29 a.m. Tuesday on Lynn Marsh Road; at 7:31 p.m. Tuesday on Brown Circle; at 8:33 p.m. Tuesday pon Copeland Circle; at 10:13 p.m. Tuesday on Carey Circle.

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 6:49 p.m. Monday at BJ’s Wholesale Club on Ward Street; at 5:18 p.m. Tuesday at Endicott and Bellingham avenues.

Assaults

A report of an assault at 7:13 p.m. Tuesday on Washington Street.

Complaints

A report of a disturbance at 9:25 p.m. Monday on Fenno Street; at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday at East Boston Savings Bank on Broadway; at 3:18 p.m. Tuesday at Gasco Oil on Broadway; at 9:46 p.m. Tuesday on Revere Street; at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday on Chamberlain Avenue.

A report of indecent exposure at 10:52 a.m. Tuesday on Arcadia Street.

Overdose

A report of a possible overdose at 2:26 p.m. Tuesday at Washington Avenue and Carmen Lane.

Theft

A report of a larceny/forgery/fraud at 3:03 p.m. Monday at Revere High School on School Street; at 7:36 p.m. Monday on Atlantic Avenue.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 6:04 p.m. Monday on Ocean Avenue; at 6:13 p.m. Monday on Winthrop Avenue; at 6:34 p.m. Monday on Douglas Street.

SAUGUS

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 3:26 p.m. Monday at 104 Main St. and 6 Vine St. A motor vehicle collision was reported, but police said the call was unfounded.

A report of a motor vehicle accident with personal injury at 10:23 a.m. Tuesday at Cedar Glen Golf Course at 60 Water St. A caller reported a vehicle struck a boulder; at 2:56 p.m. Tuesday at York Ford at 1481 Broadway.

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 3:39 p.m. Tuesday at 141 Central St.

Complaints

A report of suspicious activity at 12:27 a.m. Monday at 16 Jackson St. A caller reported an unknown person in her breeze way. A man asked her to call 911, due to four men trying to jump him carrying a knife; at 7:43 a.m. Monday at Avalon Motel at 1529 Broadway. A woman from the motel reported a man came to the front desk claiming his motor vehicle was broken into, and a cellphone was stolen; at 1:49 p.m. Monday at 67 Bow St. A caller reported a man looking into her yard and home. When she came out of the house and confronted him, he ran down the street.

A report of a disturbance at 1:18 p.m. Monday at Bob’s Store at 1020 Broadway; at 4:57 p.m. Monday at Lena’s Sandwich Shop at 496 Lincoln Ave. A caller reported a six men fighting, with a baseball bat shown.

A report of a suspicious person at 8:57 a.m. Tuesday at Melrose Fish and Game Club on Cheever Avenue. Melrose Police reported a man walking down the street with a dead turkey and crossbow.

Theft

A report of a larceny at 7:01 p.m. Monday at Macy’s/Square One Mall at 1201 Broadway. An employee as detained for about $800 in gift card fraud.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 10:33 a.m. Tuesday at 41 Newhall Ave. A caller reported someone broke the windshield to her motor vehicle.

SWAMPSCOTT

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 5:04 p.m. Tuesday at Whole Foods Market at 331 Paradise Road.

Judges once “rode the circuit” from courthouse to courthouse to dispense justice. The practice has largely gone the way of the horse-drawn plow, but Massachusetts legislators and state officials continue to see the merit of crisscrossing the state to hear constituents’ ideas.

That practice will bring legislators to Melrose on May 15 to hear residents’ concerns about climate change, global warming and clean energy. The Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change’s mandate is to do more listening than talking. The comments the committee receives will give legislators an opportunity to work on enhancing Massachusetts’ status as a leader in energy efficiency.

The key question legislators will put before Melrose residents is, “Do you think the state legislature should monitor or regulate energy use and related issues to help keep Massachusetts healthy, sustainable and strong?”

State Sen. Thomas M. McGee and legislative colleagues hit the road this year and asked residents across the state to define their concerns about transportation and other topics. Commonwealth Conversations traveled to Lynn and Peabody in April.  Previous Commonwealth Conversation tours helped build legislative consensus on expanding the state’s earned income tax credit and on crafting a college savings plan.

Swampscott means business on licenses

Legislators are elected by constituents who expect results from them. But crafting and passing legislation on Beacon Hill also means striking a balance between interests stretching from the Berkshires to Southeastern Massachusetts to Cape Ann.

McGee has consistently advocated for a clear vision that equates transportation improvements across Massachusetts and the United States with long-term economic improvements. His vision received reinforcement Tuesday night when state transportation officials brought their own road show to Lynn to hear residents’ views about increased pedestrian and bicycle access across the city.

A first glance at local roads suggests motorized vehicles have won the battle for supremacy, leaving little or no room for bicyclists and pedestrians. But streets laid out a century, in some cases, two centuries ago cannot sustain increased vehicle traffic forever. Increasing safe opportunities to move on two feet and two wheels may shift the transportation balance to a variety of modes including increased public transportation.

The greatest benefit of putting legislators and state officials out on the road to hear what people have to say is not the new law or programs that are the product of listening tours. The real lasting benefit is the opportunity to have Massachusetts residents use legislators as a sounding board for how each and every person in the state can help improve its quality of life.

Lynn residents Al and Katie DiVirgilio along with their business partners Kathy and Terry Sullivan are pleased to announce the opening of a new RE/MAX Advantage Real Estate office in Lynn. This will be the sixth RE/MAX Advantage office, with others located in Beverly, Marblehead, Salem, Peabody and Gloucester, MA.

Al is a life long resident of Lynn and his wife Katie (Boyce) was born and raised in Swampscott. Al is a former Lynn City Councilor, Lynn Police Officer and Lynn businessman with strong ties to Lynn and a deep understanding of its many and diverse neighborhoods. Katie operates a successful Lynn real estate practice and is very experienced at both on-line and social media marketing. Both Al and Katie are highly skilled at valuing Lynn area real estate and are savvy negotiators when representing their buyer and seller clients.

Kathy and Terry Sullivan have been the Broker Owners of RE/MAX Advantage since founding the company in 1989, and have developed RE/MAX Advantage into one of the top real estate companies in Massachusetts.

RE/MAX, LLC recently bestowed recognition on The DiVirgilios for their professional accomplishments. For their intimate knowledge of Lynn and the local real estate market, Al and Katie each earned the prestigious 100% Club Award for helping their many Lynn clients buy and sell real estate.

Our Lynn-based team of full-time real estate professionals will work with you, our neighbors, to obtain the best value for your home through savvy analysis, proper pricing and creative, maximum exposure marketing. Our new RE/MAX Advantage office welcomes highly motivated and skilled professionals seeking the entrepreneurial opportunities and guidance we offer.

Please join us May 18 from noon to 4 p.m. at our office at 85 Exchange Street, Suite 302, Lynn, MA. 781-593-7611. Click here for more info or to RSVP. We look forward to celebrating with you.

Al & Katie can be reached at 339-440-2688, you can check out their website at divirgiliogroup.com, or like them on Facebook.

RE/MAX LLC, has over 110,000 agents in 110 countries and continues to lead the industry with innovative technologies and award-winning programming, coaching and training for its Associates. Nobody in the World sells more real estate than RE/MAX.

COURTESY PHOTO
Breed Middle School student Ksena Gaskin (glasses, blue shirt, front row) served as a Project 351 youth organization honor guard during a Boston ceremony awarding President Barack Obama the John F. Kennedy Profile In Courage Award.

By THOR JOURGENSEN

Middle school student by day — honor guard at night: It’s all just a normal week for Lynn’s Ksena Gaskin.

The Breed Middle School student was among Project 351 youth organization participants who provided an honor guard at the John F. Kennedy Library in Boston where President Barack Obama was honored last Sunday night.

Wearing blue and white Project 351 T-shirts, Gaskin and other students selected from around the state were on hand as black-tie gala attendees mingled and applauded as Obama accepted the Centennial John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award.

“President Kennedy built a vision of public service, based on a foundation of courage and inclusion,” said Carolyn Casey, executive director and founder of Project 351. “For seven years, Project 351 has been committed to lifting up young people as the best example of kindness, compassion, and generosity. We are honored to be included with other nonprofit organizations who carry forward President Kennedy’s legacy of service.”

A new approach to fighting opioids

Project 351 is a statewide, youth-driven service organization that convenes an eighth grader from every city and town in Massachusetts for a transformative year of development, enrichment, and impact through unique service opportunities

The John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award™ is presented annually to public servants who have made courageous decisions of conscience without regard for the personal or professional consequences.

The award is named for President Kennedy’s 1957 Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Profiles in Courage, which recounts the stories of eight U.S. senators who risked their careers, incurring the wrath of constituents or powerful interest groups, by taking principled stands for unpopular positions.

The opening lines state: “This is a book about that most admirable of human virtues – courage. ‘Grace under pressure,’ Ernest Hemingway defined it.”

Project 351 is supported by private sector and civic leaders including Carob Tree Foundation, John Hancock, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Martin Richard Foundation, Converse, HYM Investment Group, the Carmen Family, and the O’Brien Family.

LYNN — Michael Francis Grinnell, 56, a long-time resident of Lynn, passed away after a sudden illness in the NSMC in Salem Hospital on Tuesday, May 9, 2017. Born in Cambridge on March 24, 1961, he was the son of the late John F. and Jean M. (Daigle) Grinnell. Mike was raised and educated in Lynn. After high school, he pursued his passion of cars and graduated from an Automotive Certificate Program solidifying his knowledge and expertise in automotive parts. Mike was a successful auto parts manager in his long career; working with various auto parts companies and always increasing profit margins.

Mike loved cars and consequently was a huge NASCAR fan. He enjoyed many sports and at one time enjoyed golf and bowling. He was an avid Patriots fan and rooted for them every game. Mike enjoyed toys such as collecting the Minions and even baseball cards. Mike had a huge passion for heavy metal music and at one time helped as a roadie for the 90’s Lynn band, Pirate Radio. Through all his life interests, nothing could compare to the love and joy he got from spending time with his family, most especially his grandchildren.

Mike leaves his children: Jessica Grinnell and Jarrod Grinnell, both of Lynn, his grandchildren: Christian and Nicholas Mancia of Lynn and Kinsley Grinnell and Madison Talbot of Lynn; his sister, Jean L. Gately of Peabody, his nephew, Joshua Gately of Peabody, his aunt, Patrica Pacewicz of Lynn, and his former son-in-law, Francisco Mancia and his cousins, Cathy Russell and Jimmy Pacewicz.

Service information: A memorial service will be held in the CUFFE-McGINN Funeral Home, 157 Maple St., Lynn on Monday, May 15, 2017 at 7 p.m. Visiting hours will be held in the funeral home prior to the service from 4-7 p.m. Interment services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mike’s memory may be made to: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or at stjude.org. For directions or to sign the online guestbook, please visit: Cuffemcginn.com.

LYNN — Henry Emile LeBlanc died peacefully on May 4, 2017, at NSMC in Lynn. He was born in Lynn, and was the son of Emile and Edith (Hall) LeBlanc. He was the loving husband and best friend of Thelma (Shaw) LeBlanc for 26 years.

Henry was a graduate of Saint Joseph’s Institute in Lynn and of Lynn English High School in the class of 1965. After high school, he enrolled in the United States Army where he served from 1965-1968 in the military police. He did service in Vietnam. After his military service , he worked at the General Electric in Lynn at the gear plant.

Henry was a life member of the Franco American War Veterans, a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6535, and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans chapter EF Gilmore 64. He was also a past commander of the Vietnam Combat Veterans of Greater Lynn in the 1980’s.

Henry liked to go fishing and loved to tell stories about fishing with his father years ago. After his marriage, he taught his wife to fish and they spent many hours on the water. He enjoyed many years camping at Tuxbury Pond in Amesbury with his wife. He also liked to do calligraphy and had beautiful penmanship.

Besides his wife, he leaves three step-children, Christine Wilford and her husband Richard of Newtown, Conn., David Dennison of Derry, N.H., and Robert Dennison of Maine. He had seven step-grandchildren, Emanuel, Richard, Michayl, Nathaniel, Emily, Kylie, and Kaisyn. He leaves his sister-in-laws Lisa Arsenault and her husband Martin, and K Lee Tarney and her husband Bruce. He was the Uncle of Yuri Arsenault and the late Julia Arsenault. He also leaves several cousins.

The family would like to thank the NSMC at both Lynn and Salem and his Partners Doctors for the care he has received. We would also like to thank the Davita Dialysis Center in Salem for their wonderful care for four years.

Service information: A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 12 p.m. in the SOLIMINE Funeral Home, 426 Broadway (Rte 129) Lynn. Memorial visiting hours are on Saturday from 10-12 p.m. prior to his funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: New England Center and Home for Veterans, 17 Court St, Boston, MA 02108-2601. Directions and guestbook at Solimine.com.

All address information, particularly arrests, reflect police records. In the event of a perceived inaccuracy, it is the sole responsibility of the concerned party to contact the relevant police department and have the department issue a notice of correction to The Daily Item. Corrections or clarifications will not be made without express notice of change from the arresting police department.

LYNN

Arrests

James Adams, of 8 Elizabeth St., Mattapan, was arrested on warrant charges of larceny from person and kidnapping at 2:56 p.m. Wednesday.

Vincent Gennari, of 4 Hanson St., Salem, was arrested on warrant charges of daytime breaking and entering for a felony, assault and battery and larceny at 10:11 a.m. Thursday.

Juan Luna-Percel, 36, of 7 Liberty Square, was arrested and charged with Class A drug possession with intent to distribute, Class B drug possession with intent to distribute and disorderly conduct at 12:38 p.m. Thursday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 2:44 p.m. Wednesday at Eastern Avenue and Timson Street; at 5:57 p.m. Wednesday at 10 Farrar St.; at 11:14 p.m. Wednesday at Hanover and Johnson streets; at 7:16 a.m. Thursday at 90 High Rock St.

Assaults

A report of an assault at 4:24 p.m. Wednesday on Moulton Street.

Breaking and Entering

A report of a breaking and entering at 9:40 p.m. Wednesday at 796 Western Ave.; at 6:16 a.m. Thursday at 15 Salem St.

Complaints

A report of a disturbance at 12:13 p.m. Wednesday at 126 Union St.; at 6:27 p.m. Wednesday at 42 Raddin Grove Ave.; at 9:26 p.m. Wednesday at 65 Centre St.; at 10:49 p.m. Wednesday at Eastern Avenue and Upham Road; at 11:14 p.m. Wednesday at 60 Boston St.; at 11:30 p.m. Wednesday at 12 Michigan Ave.; at 6:54 a.m. Thursday at 27 Sagamore St.; at 10:31 a.m. Thursday at 1 George St.

Overdose

A report of an overdose at 5:21 p.m. Wednesday on Central Square.

Theft

A report of a larceny at 5:56 p.m. Wednesday at 50 Goodridge St.; at 6:21 p.m. Wednesday at 126 Union St.; at 7:51 p.m. Wednesday at 128 Union St.; at 8:19 p.m. Wednesday at 62 Washington St.; at 10:35 p.m. Wednesday at 126 Union St.

A report of a robbery at 3:34 a.m. Thursday at 7 Liberty Square.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 6:36 p.m. Wednesday at 32 Hamilton Ave.

Police log: 5-11-2017

MARBLEHEAD

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 6:11 p.m. Wednesday on West Shore Drive.

Complaints

A report of suspicious activity at 9:16 a.m. Wednesday on Ocean Avenue. A caller reported he was working on the floats at Devereux Beach and stated there was a gray car tucked into the floats and felt they were doing drugs.

A report of a disturbance at 3:33 p.m. Wednesday on West Shore Drive.

A report of a neighbor dispute at 3:54 p.m. Wednesday on Prospect Street. A caller reported there was a device on his neighbor’s property that sets off a sound that is meant to keep animals away from the house. He stated the noise is loud and it hurts everyone’s ears as they walk by. He stated that he stepped onto her property to turn the machine off and was met by the woman “who yelled and screamed at him and became hostile.” She proceeded to turn the device back on. He also stated that the woman at one point “began to come towards me and throw what looked like a towel.”

PEABODY

Arrests

Geso Maia Dasilva, 38, of 8 Beverly Commons, Apt. 9, Beverly, was arrested and charged with failure to display owner’s name and operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license at 12:57 p.m. Thursday.

Davary Xavier Jones, 20, of 76 Franklin St., Apt. 3, was arrested and charged with unarmed robbery, assault and battery on a person over 60/disabled with injury and on a warrant at 11:03 a.m. Thursday.

Daniel Theodhori, 18, of 22 Redberry Lane, was arrested and charged with operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license and obstructed/nontransparent window at 2:11 p.m. Wednesday.

Kristi Theodhori, 21, of 22 Redberry Lane, was arrested and charged with operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license and on a warrant at 2:02 p.m. Wednesday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 2:09 p.m. Wednesday at Peabody Sunoco at 1 Lynn St.; at 3:14 p.m. Wednesday at 84 Lynnfield St. and 74 County St.; at 5:13 p.m. Wednesday at Meineke Auto Care Center at 241 Newbury St.; at 6:08 p.m. Wednesday at 401 Lowell St. and 1 Meadowview Road; at 10:28 p.m. Wednesday at 564 Lowell St.; at 9:54 a.m. Thursday at 7 Summit St. and 33 Centennial Drive. A truck hit a pole.

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 6:26 p.m. Wednesday at 232 Washington St.; at 7:28 a.m. Thursday at Holiday Inn at 1 Newbury St.

A report of a motor vehicle accident involving a police vehicle at 11:06 am. Thursday at 2 Sawyer St. and 79 Lowell St. One person was taken to Lahey Hospital; at 12:26 p.m. Thursday at Police Department at 6 Allens Lane.

Complaints

A report of suspicious activity at 6:02 p.m. Wednesday at 75 Central St. An officer was flagged down by a person who reported a group on the side of the building possibly had a knife. Police reported the group was watching their children at the playground and there were no weapons present; at 11:41 p.m. Wednesday at 47 Shore Drive. A caller reported a man pulling on car door handles.

A report of harassment at 7:46 p.m. Wednesday at 4 Longwood Ave. A caller reported that the previous homeowner has been driving by his house and banging on his door.

A report of a disturbance at 9:42 p.m. Wednesday at 14 Bourbon St.

Theft

A report of a robbery at 11:03 a.m. Thursday at 0 Central St. and 2 Main St. A black man reportedly knocked down and robbed an elderly man, and then ran from Main towards Central Street. Davary Xavier Jones, 20, was arrested.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 6:40 a.m. Thursday at 9A Rockdale Park. A vehicle had the air let out of its tires and all four brake lines were cut; at 9:01 a.m. Thursday at Northshore Mall at 210N Andover St.

REVERE

Arrests

Itamar Batista Figueredo, 34, of 30 Augustus St., was arrested and charged with arson of a dwelling house at 12:40 a.m. Wednesday.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle hit and run accident at 6:27 a.m. Wednesday at Blanchard’s Liquors on American Legion Highway.

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 2:45 p.m. Wednesday on Sewall Street; at 5:36 p.m. Wednesday at Washington Avenue and Marble Street; at 6:39 p.m. Wednesday at New Deal Social Club on Shirley Avenue. Rolando Antonio Verde, 37, of 123 Franklin St., Apt. 3, Chelsea, was summoned for operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended or revoked registration.

Complaints

A report of a disturbance at 12:55 p.m. Wednesday on Winthrop Avenue; at 3:32 p.m. Wednesday at Domino’s Pizza on Broadway; at 8:09 p.m. Wednesday on Goodwin Avenue; at 10:24 p.m. Wednesday on Central Avenue.

Fire

A report of an arson at 12:40 a.m. Wednesday  on Augustus Street. Itamar Batista Figueredo, 34, was arrested for arson.

Theft

A report of a larceny/forgery/fraud at 5:36 p.m. Wednesday on Beach Street; at 7:11 p.m. Wednesday on East Mountain Avenue; at 8:19 p.m. Wednesday at Dollar Tree on Squire Road; at 9:53 p.m. Wednesday on Stone Street.

Vandalism

A report of vandalism at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday on Larkin Street.

SAUGUS

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 5:22 p.m. Wednesday at Walmart at 770 Broadway; at 6:09 p.m. Wednesday at Ellis and Central streets; at 4:56 a.m. Thursday on Walnut Street.

Complaints

A report of a suspicious motor vehicle at 11:45 p.m. Wednesday at 1 Hayden Road. A caller reported there was a suspicious vehicle parked outside his home with a smashed out window and running engine, but the vehicle appeared to be unoccupied. Police reported the vehicle was shut off, but they were unable to make contact with the registered owner.

SWAMPSCOTT

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Whole Foods Market at 331 Paradise Road; at 6:39 p.m. Wednesday at Essex Street and Mall Access Road.

Complaints

A report of a disturbance at 3:06 p.m. Wednesday at 172 Norfolk Ave.

COURTESY PHOTO
Brian LaPierre is seeking re-election.

LYNN — City Councilor at-large Brian LaPierre  launches his re-election campaign Wednesday, May 17 at the Knights of Columbus in Lynn from 5-8 p.m.

LaPierre, a 43-year-old father of two, said he has carved out a spot on the council as a problem solver and an effective voice for the city over the past two years.

“I feel like I have been an outspoken and effective advocate for anyone who requests city services and will continue to work with my colleagues in city government to keep Lynn moving in a positive direction,” he said.

He said Lynn “is in a unique position to really accelerate over the next two years.

Push for 2nd charter school renewed in Lynn

“I am asking Lynn residents to join my family and I on this journey again so we can reach new heights as a community,” LaPierre said.

LaPierre lists as his council accomplishments: Responding to more than 1,000 constituent requests; making Lynn a more pro-business friendly city; creating new sources of revenue with medical marijuana dispensaries; combating the opioid crisis with Narcan-equipped emergency vehicles, and fighting to solve the net school spending crisis that still looms over both the city and school budgets.

“I look forward to building on the success of our first campaign two years ago, as I continue to meet new residents and reconnect with long-time Lynners, I am honored and privileged to serve the city I love so much,” said LaPierre.

By GAYLA CAWLEY

LYNN — A brief foot pursuit by police led to one man’s arrest, and the seizure of a large quantity of heroin and cocaine on Thursday afternoon.

Juan Luna-Percel, 36, of Lynn, was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine and disorderly conduct.

An officer noticed Luna-Percel walking around 12:15 p.m. in the area of East Highland Street, recognized him, and started to watch him. The officer saw Luna-Percel get into a car, and followed as it drove a short distance. The suspect then got out of the car in the area of Chestnut Street, and the car drove away, Lynn Police Lt. Michael Kmiec said.

20-year-old accused of robbing man, 70

The officer called for backup, suspicious of a drug deal from the short ride. The officer then approached Luna-Percel, and he took off running. Police set up a perimeter and after a brief foot pursuit, he was found in the area of 233 Chestnut St., Kmiec said.

Luna-Percel came walking out from the backyard of 233 Chestnut St. and was stopped by police. Officers went to check the backyard area and found 14 bags of cocaine, which weighed 16.5 grams, two bags of heroin, which weighed 8.8 grams, and a phone.

The drugs and phone were seized, along with $485 in cash, Kmiec said.

Gayla Cawley can be reached at gcawley@itemlive.com. Follow her on Twitter @GaylaCawley

ITEM PHOTO BY OWEN O’ROURKE
Carmen Arins, Lizabeth Acevedo and Yuleidy Pimenetel gather information about the Gregg Neighborhood House.

By THOMAS GRILLO

LYNN — Emily Blaney won’t graduate high school until next year, but the 16-year-old already has a career plan.

“I work with special ed kids and I’ve noticed I’m very good at comforting them,” she said. “I’ve decided to be a kindergarten teacher or open a daycare center.”

The Lynn Vocational Technical Institute junior spoke with representatives from the region’s colleges Thursday at the school’s Career Fair about furthering her education. Tech offers a childcare program that provides her with hands-on classroom training with kids.

Blaney was one of more than 100 students who packed the school’s lobby to talk with recruiters from schools, companies, retailers, hospitals, nonprofits, the military and city departments, including police and fire.

School Superintendent Dr. Catherine Latham said she was wowed by the number of employers gathered to consider Tech graduates.

“It’s so wonderful for our students to have such a diverse collection of opportunities all in one place,” she said. “Many of these organizations have taken on our students as part of the district’s co-op program.”

Amado and Cristian Roman, 17-year-old twins, said they are seeking opportunities to do an internship at a newspaper where they can use their video production skills.

“I already have lots of hands-on experience recording and editing videos,” said Amado. “I think I have a lot to offer a newspaper.”

Students get a taste of the Real World

His brother, Cristian, said they are considering programs at Emerson College and Fitchburg State University to enhance their skills.

Mary Zwiercan, human resources director at the North Shore Medical Center (NSMC), one of two dozen employers who had a booth at the fair, said the Salem-based hospital has more than 200 jobs available from cafeteria workers, security, radiation technicians and nurses.

“We have an aging workforce and we are hiring, that’s why I’m here,” she said.  

NSCM operates a co-op program at Tech in health sciences where juniors can earn their certified nursing assistant certification. Seniors can enroll in the co-op program which puts students in healthcare settings every other week for 30 hours at $12 per hour.

“They are my future certified nursing assistants and maybe future nurses and doctors,” Zwiercan said.  

Christopher Menjivar said he’s not sure what he’ll do following graduation next year. For now, the 17-year-old junior is founder of Eagles Handyman & Construction Co., a seven-person firm that does home remodeling.

“I’m considering UMass-Boston,” he said. “All things are possible.”

Thomas Grillo can be reached at tgrillo@itemlive.com.

ITEM FILE PHOTO
Frank DeVito still has to raise about $250,000 for the school to launch.

By THOMAS GRILLO

LYNN — The prospect of the city’s second charter school gained traction this week thanks to funding from some big name donors.

While the Equity Lab Charter School has yet to receive state approval, the proposed alternative school received a $215,000 grant from the NewSchools Venture Fund. The California-based foundation boasts a group of wealthy benefactors, including Bill and Melinda Gates, known for Microsoft Corp., and Facebook’s Mark and Chan Zuckerberg, who vowed to fund educators who launch innovative public schools.

“I’m ecstatic,” said Frank DeVito, the school’s founder. “The money will make a huge difference in making this a full time effort, and help pay for staff and consultants to get the school up and running next year.”

The 5-12 school, which would start with 160 fifth and sixth graders, will eventually have 640 students. So far, there’s a waiting list of more than 150 families, DeVito said.

DeVito is a member of Waltham-based Education Development Center’s National Center on Scaling Up Effective Schools team, where he develops, implements and tests new ways to boost effective practices in high schools.

Last year, DeVito and his 22-member team of local educators was one of 50 finalists to win $10 million toward opening the new school in the XQ: Super School Project. Emerson Collective, chaired by Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple Inc. founder Steve Jobs, sponsored the $50 million competition.

While DeVito and Equity were chosen among 700 teams from 45 states that submitted applications for new or redesigned high schools, the Lynn proposal lost.

But that hasn’t slowed DeVito. He said the NewSchools cash revitalized the effort to bring another charter school to the city.

Drug charges for Lynn man who ran

DeVito, a 52-year-old Lynn homeowner and father of two, said he is focused on finding space for the school. He has looked at the former St. Michael’s Church, school and rectory on Summer Street, but can’t ink a deal until his school receives approval from the state Department of Education (DOE). A decision is expected to be made in February. If he gets the green light, the school is expected to open in the fall of 2018.

If his proposal for a new school is accepted by the state, they will provide $800 per student or $128,000 to lease or purchase space. In addition, they would receive $2.1 million from the state or $13,223 per student who switch from the Lynn Public Schools to the charter.

DeVito, a former teacher at Chelsea High School, said he would still have to raise about $250,000 for the school to launch.

“The state really wants the school to open in Lynn,” he said. “They have been very supportive and have offered coaching in order for us to succeed.”

If it does get the go-ahead from DOE, there will be no welcome mat from the city.

While Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy and the City Council have sparred over a number of issues this year, they are united in their fight against any new charter schools. They argue such schools take much needed cash from the public schools.

While proponents insist charter schools are public schools, Lynn’s elected officials say they don’t like the formula for funding because it takes more than $1 million from the regular school budget.

If Equity Lab wins approval, they will face competition from the only other charter school in the city, KIPP Academy.

Thomas Grillo can be reached at tgrillo@itemlive.com.

By GAYLA CAWLEY

Several North Shore communities were among the state’s towns and cities allocated Chapter 90 funding for local road repairs and resurfacing for FY18, according to an announcement from state legislators.

“Chapter 90’s annual allocation of state funds allow municipalities to continue to invest in local roads and bridges,” state Sen. Thomas McGee (D-Lynn) said in a statement. “This continued investment into infrastructure helps improve the quality of life for citizens.”

Lynn received more than $1.5 million in Chapter 90 funding. Other communities also receiving Chapter 90 funding include Saugus with $642,035, Marblehead with $455,615, Lynnfield with $417,697, Swampscott with $295,854, and Nahant with $92,135.

Gino Cresta, Swampscott department of public works director and assistant town administrator, said Town Meeting members will also be asked to approve $200,000 in non-Chapter 90 road repair funding on Monday, for the town’s road service management system.

Cresta said the Chapter 90 and non-Chapter 90 funding will go strictly toward paving streets, including Sampson Avenue, Eureka Avenue, Fairview Avenue, Pleasant Street, Greenwood Avenue, Bay View Avenue, Cedar Hill Terrace, Sunset Drive, and Lawrence Terrace.

Getting the lead out in Malden

“It’s important to our communities that we are able to provide this helpful funding just as the road construction heats up,” state Rep. Lori Ehrlich (D-Marblehead) said in a statement. “Nobody likes potholes, so it’s good for everyone for road work to get underway.”

State Rep. Daniel Cahill (D-Lynn) said in a statement “we worked tirelessly as a delegation to ensure the city of Lynn received more funding this year than last, because without this money, the city would not be able to pave or repair any of our roads or sidewalks.”

“I’m very pleased that the state continues to provide these much-needed funds for our local transportation infrastructure,” state Rep. Brendan Crighton said in a statement. “This investment will help people safely get to where they need to go, while at the same time benefitting our local economy.”

State Rep. RoseLee Vincent (D-Revere) said in a statement she was “particularly pleased at the funding Saugus will receive for its roads, and I’m sure the town will direct these funds in needed areas.”

Gayla Cawley can be reached at gcawley@itemlive.com. Follow her on Twitter @GaylaCawley.

LYNN – Sister Frances Donahue, 87, of the Sisters of Notre Dame, died Tuesday, February 7, 2017, in the Notre Dame Long Term Care Center, Worcester.

Sister was born in Lynn, daughter of John J. and Frances T. (Downey) Donahue.

After graduating in 1947 from St. Mary’s High School in Lynn, Sister Frances entered the Sisters of Notre Dame. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Emmanuel College.

Sister Frances went on to receive a master’s degree in Bacteriology in 1969 from Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. In 1978, she received a master’s degree in Public Health with an emphasis on Population Studies from the University of Pittsburgh, where she was also awarded a Ph.D. in Public Health Research and Evaluation in 1981. From 1980 through 1983, she was also a Project Director in Pitt’s Public Health program.

Sister Frances began her education mission at Notre Dame schools in Lawrence and Somerville. She taught biology and Chemistry at St. Mary’s High School in Lawrence from 1962 to 1968. She taught Biology and Microbiology at Emmanuel College from 1968 to 1976. After returning to Boston from Pittsburgh in 1983, she joined the faculty of the Health Care Administration Education Program at Emmanuel. She completed her career at Emmanuel with the college development office, retiring in 1999.

In 2000, Sister Frances joined the staff of St. Mark’s Parish in Dorchester, where she helped with liturgies and continued her commitment to social justice there until 2011.

Sister Frances leaves her brothers Daniel J. Donahue of South Yarmouth and John P. Donahue and his wife Ellen of Nahant, her sister Julie A. Donahue of South Yarmouth; nieces Terry of Nahant, and Jacqui and her partner David of Atlanta; nephews Ross and his wife Cheryl of Lexington, and Dan Donahue of Boston; a brother-n-law Paul Bertrand of Nahant; three great nieces and nephews; many cousins and friends as well as her sisters in religion, the Sisters of Notre Dame. She was predeceased by her sister Norine M. Bertrand.

Service information: The funeral Mass scheduled in February was postponed due to weather. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, May 19, at 2 p.m. in the Notre Dame du Lac Chapel, 555 Plantation St., Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sisters of Notre Dame, 351 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149.

All address information, particularly arrests, reflect police records. In the event of a perceived inaccuracy, it is the sole responsibility of the concerned party to contact the relevant police department and have the department issue a notice of correction to The Daily Item. Corrections or clarifications will not be made without express notice of change from the arresting police department.

LYNN

Arrests

Aaron Bellamy, 26,  was arrested and charged with possessing a Class A substance on Thursday at 6:31 p.m.

Jesse Cerasuolo, 25, of 37 Damon Ave., Nashua, N.H. was arrested and charged with possessing a Class A substance on Thursday at 4:30 p.m.

Robert Ferguson was arrested on a warrant charge for shoplifting and operating a motor vehicle with a suspend license on Friday at 11:38 a.m.

Nigel Pierre, 24, was arrested and charged with breaking and entering at nighttime at 8:07 a.m. on Friday.

Juan Rivera of 100 Johnson St. was arrested and charged with assault and battery on Thursday at 6:28 p.m.

Accidents

A report of a motor vehicle accident at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at Park Street and Western Avenue; at 4:38 p.m. Thursday at Casco Road and Lynnfield Street 300; at 302 Euclid Ave at 8:04 a.m. Friday; At 8:52 a.m. and 8:53 a.m. at 695 Lynnfield St.; Friday at 9:28 a.m. at Boston and Marion streets.

Police log: 5-12-2017

MARBLEHEAD

Complaints

On Thursday at 6:13 p.m., multiple burglar alarms went off at the library reported by the alarm company. Woman also called from library and said she was in the vestibule when they went off. She had not heard the closing announcement. Police found front door secure.

Report of a car broken into on Thursday at 7:54 p.m. Caller reported wallet stolen and his credit card was used multiple times that day.

Caller reported a man got out of his car on Friday at 12:12 a.m. and appears to be stumbling on his feet and may be intoxicated. Police arrived and offered to give man a ride to State Street.

Woman walked into the police station on on Friday at 6:53 a.m. to report her 15-year-old daughter is missing. The family discovered an open window last night that was supposed to be closed. Mother reportedly got into argument with her daughter and girl said she did not want to live in the house anymore. Daughter was described as 5-foot-2-inches tall with brown hair, blue eyes and about 100 pounds. Juvenile was located in Winchester.

LYNNFIELD

Motor Vehicle Accidents

On Monday, May 8 at 3:33 p.m., there was a motor vehicle accident with property damage on North Broadway. At 8:54 a.m. on Tuesday, May 9, there was a report of a larceny on Main Street. At 10:14 a.m., there was a motor vehicle complaint on South Broadway.

SAUGUS

Deer Strike

A caller reported his vehicle struck a deer on Thursday at 4:56 a.m. near the reservoir on Walnut Street. The driver was not injured but there was slight damage to the truck. The deer appeared to be dead.

Gunfire at Mall

Square One Mall security reported someone shot out the windows to Best Buy and the Wow Gym on Thursday at 2:58 p.m. Officer dispatched, no suspects found.

SALEM —  A Lynn man was indicted Wednesday in connection with allegedly trafficking more than a kilogram of cocaine as part of an operation that brought drugs from Mexico and the Dominican Republic into Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Euclides A. Lopez, 51, was indicted by an Essex County grand jury on charges of trafficking more than 200 grams of cocaine and conspiracy to violate the Controlled Substances Act, according to a news release from state Attorney General Maura Healey’s office.

Law enforcement officials seized in December more than a kilogram of cocaine, $10,810 in cash, jewelry, and a scale to measure cocaine from Lopez’s Lynn apartment.

North Shore gets money for road repairs

His arrest was part of a larger operation by state police assigned to the attorney general’s office and the New England Division of the Drug Enforcement Agency with the help of the Lynn Police Department.

On Dec. 13, Lopez was one of 20 people arrested.

In all, authorities seized more than $500,000 in cash, luxury vehicles, firearms, cocaine, and heroin.

The investigation is ongoing.

LYNN — A local nonprofit is teaming with North Shore Medical Center to provide recovery coaches for every person treated for an overdose in Union Hospital’s emergency room.

Bridgewell, a Peabody-based nonprofit with extensive experience in providing treatment and housing for people recovering from substance use disorders, now offers 24/7 emergency response services by trained recovery coaches. All recovery coaches have personally overcome their own addictions and can relate firsthand to those struggling after an overdose, according to a press release from North Shore Medical Center. NSMC, which operates emergency rooms in Salem and Lynn, is the largest medical provider on the North Shore.

“We know from our experience that individuals with substance use disorders respond to recovery coaches who understand their experience and can provide unconditional support and guidance,” said Mark Kennard, director of community services at Bridgewell.

As a society, Kennard said we can no longer enable overdose victims to simply walk out of the emergency room without any support.

“We feel fortunate to partner with Bridgewell in this challenging work, and believe that the experience and dedication of the coaches will enhance the lives of our patients in ways that complement the expertise and efforts of our Emergency Department staff,” said Jane Clarke, R.N. and executive director of emergency services at NSMC.

Work continues for Market Basket access

The recovery coach program at NSMC began in late March and has already assisted more than 20 people and their family members, including some who entered recovery programs as a direct result of this intervention in the emergency room. According to police records, a total of 439 opioid-related overdoses occurred in Lynn last year, an increase from 349 in 2015.

As part of this program, Bridgewell has hired six recovery coaches who are available to NSMC Union Hospital staff to call as soon as an overdose case appears at the hospital.

Once contacted by NSMC, the coaches come to the hospital right away to establish a relationship with the overdose patient and begin discussions about options for treatment. All recovery coaches have completed a newly implemented state certification and training process.

While initially available only in Lynn, the hope is to expand the recovery coach program to Salem Hospital later this year.

ITEM FILE PHOTO
Construction continues on the new Market Basket on Western Avenue.

LYNN — Work is underway to improve access around the new Market Basket under construction at the General Electric Factory of the Future site.

The $2 million project, funded by DeMoulas Super Markets Inc., the Tewksbury-based chain store, will reconstruct and upgrade Federal Street, Western Avenue, and Boston Avenue.

It is intended to support the city’s Market Square revitalization, which includes the redevelopment of the 22-acre former GE site. Market Square will feature an 84,000 square foot state-of-the-art supermarket and 50,000 square feet of retail and office space.

Contaminated factory site up for sale

“We have been working on this project for three years and are excited that we are on schedule to open Aug. 1,” said James Cowdell, executive director of the city’s Economic Development and Industrial Corp., the city’s development bank.

The $25 million store is expected to employ 75 full-time employees and 400 part timers. Market Basket will join Shaw’s, Stop & Shop and PriceRite in the city.

Shuttered since 1988, the once state-of-the-art factory sat empty until Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy met with high-level GE executives to discuss redeveloping the parcel.

Charles Patsios, a Swampscott developer, bought the property from GE in 2013 for $4 million.

Thomas Grillo can be reached at tgrillo@itemlive.com.

LYNN — Elizabeth “Betty” (Nelson) LaFlame, age 85 and lifelong resident of Lynn, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 10, 2017 surrounded by her family and friends.

Betty was born on Nov. 1, 1931 in Lynn, the daughter of the late Arthur J. and Alice M. (Sharpe) Nelson. She was raised and educated in Lynn and graduated from Lynn Classical High School Class of 1950. She received a degree in drafting from Lowell Tech.

Betty had worked in the engineering department for the City of Lynn for 25 years, retiring in 1997. Betty enjoyed shopping and spending time with her family and friends. She was a selfless woman who enjoyed dotting on her daughter, Michelle. She was a woman of strong faith. She was a devoted parishioner of St. Mary’s Church and a passionate Eucharistic Minister. Betty also enjoyed traveling with her family. She was a generous and giving woman who devoted her time and treasure to the St. Vincent De Paul Society at St. Mary’s.

Betty was predeceased by her husband, Richard T. LaFlame. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle LaFlame-Healey and her husband Tom of Natick; eight siblings, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive her. Betty was also predeceased by four siblings.

Service information: Family and friends are invited to attend Betty’s visitation on Tuesday, May 16, 2017 from 4-7 p.m. at CUFFE-MCGINN Funeral Home, 157 Maple St., Lynn, MA 01904. Her funeral will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 at the funeral home, with a Mass of Christian burial to be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 8 S. Common St., Lynn, MA 01902. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery on Boston Street in Lynn. Donations are requested to St. Mary’s Church General Fund, 8 S. Common St., Lynn, MA 01902. Please visit www.cuffemcginnfh.com?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss for directions, or to sign the online guest book.