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Bomb Squad called after grenade discovery
The State Police Bomb Squad safely exploded some grenades discovered at a home on Arrowhead Road June 11.
“The grenades were found during a house clean-out,” Chief Jason Gilliland said. “They were in a box, in a loft over the garage. After a quick size-up of the box content, I notified the State Police Bomb Squad.”
Gilliland added, “They X-rayed the devices and determined that two out of the five devices posed a hazard and needed to be rendered safe. This was done at the Transfer Station.”
Honoring firefighters
The Marblehead Fire Department gathered at Waterside Cemetery for its annual Firefighters Sunday remembrance ceremony. MFD paid special tribute to former firefighters James Dvine and Jerry Tucker and former Select Board member Harry Christensen.

Pothole repair funding
“Municipalities across the Commonwealth are feeling the impact of a brutal winter, with roads, sidewalks, bridges, and culverts in need of serious repair,” said State Senator Brendan Crighton. “This funding addresses those immediate concerns, while balancing long-term investments in our DCR roadways and infrastructure of the MBTA so that people can travel safely throughout Massachusetts.”

“Safe, reliable roads, bridges, and public transit are essential to daily life in cities and towns across the Commonwealth, including our communities,” said State Representative Jenny Armini. “This package delivers critical support for urgent infrastructure needs while making long-term investments in transportation, housing, and connectivity.”
Cool cash: MMLD pays residents to help power through peak demand
What if helping the grid could earn you money?
Marblehead Municipal Light is looking for 20 customers to participate in a new pilot program featuring free leased, plug-and-play A/C battery units.

Participants will:
- Receive a free battery unit
- Earn a $15 bill credit for participating
- Help reduce electric demand during peak periods
- Gain limited backup power capability during outages
There is no purchase required and no installation. The battery works alongside your existing window, wall or portable air conditioner to help support the electric grid during periods of high demand.
Only 20 units are available, and participation will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Go to marbleheadelectric.com.
Native plant sale
The Friends of Marblehead Parks will host its first-ever Native Plant Sale at the Community Center on June 20, 9 a.m.-noon, the day before Father’s Day.
The proceeds from this event will help the mission of the nascent Friends of the Marblehead Parks begin its goal of helping plant plants that feed insects and birds — called ecological superstars — that might help sustain hundreds of different types of birds.
The nonprofit organization just received its official status as a 501(c)(3), and all members will be on hand to sell native plants and share their knowledge.
Founded by Larry Simpson, the group has a mission to add thoughtful design and biodiversity to Marblehead parks.
For more information, contact Simpson at 781-405-7598.
Summer reading party — with pups
Abbot Library’s Children’s Room will kick off its summer reading program with puppies, snacks and more on Thursday, June 25, 2-4 p.m.
Meet adorable, adoptable dogs from Cape Ann Animal Aid.
Purchase food from Shubie’s and Terry’s.
Play interactive games with Sustainable Marblehead and the Council on Aging.
More info at abbotlibary.org/events.
SPUR’s Success Drive in gear
Summer vacation hasn’t started yet, but local nonprofit SPUR is already getting ready for next school year.
SPUR has launched its Student Success Drive and is looking for donations to provide local children with the supplies they need on the first day of school.
Working with school adjustment counselors, food pantry directors and other social service workers, SPUR provides all the tools necessary to learn for students who wouldn’t otherwise have them.
According to SPUR, the demand continues to grow, with over 650 students in Lynn, Marblehead, Salem and Swampscott depending on the Student Success Drive to be ready to learn in the coming school year.
“For these students, this is about more than just pencils and pens. It is about giving every student the dignity, confidence and sense of belonging that comes with being fully prepared,” according to a SPUR email.
To learn more and donate, visit spurnorthshore.org.

