Kindergarten Tours

On Thursday morning, I was visited by four kindergarten classes from the Cashman Elementary School. I spent some time telling them a little bit about City government and the history of Amesbury. However, more importantly, we dedicated most of our time together to their questions. From questions about why our stained-glass windows are different colors, or why our conference table is so big, or what it’s like to be Mayor, I think we got almost all of their questions answered! I had a blast hosting them, and it was great to see our educators in action.

Ken

Chestnut Innovation Center Manufacturing Seminar

Last week, Bob O'Brien, CEO of the Chestnut Innovation Center (one of Amesbury's newest businesses) was kind enough to invite me to speak at the CIC's first ever Product Manufacturing Seminar. I was humbled to hear Bob share some very kind words about me, and particularly about the business-friendly environment that is quickly developing in Amesbury. Bob and I both thanked Melissa Cerasuolo and the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce for their tireless advocacy on behalf of our business community.

In just their first few weeks in Amesbury, the CIC brought 10 new businesses and 50 new jobs to our community. This is great news, and I look forward to watching the Center continue to grow.

It was exciting to see such a diverse display of businesses, ideas, and innovation right here in Amesbury. Thanks to Bob, Melissa, and everyone else who was involved with the seminar.

Ken

Amesbury's New Electric Vehicle

Last month, Amesbury's new electric vehicle hit the streets to begin service in our Water Department. Thanks to the hard work of Bill Scott and his staff in the Office of Community and Economic Development, we were able to utilize over $34,000 in state grant funding for the purchase of the fully electric 2014 Ford Focus EV. The acquisition of the new EV allows the City to see an initial one-time savings of up to $17,660, and is estimated to save the City more than $3,200 annually in additional energy savings.

 

In Friday's edition of the Newburyport Daily News, there was a nice piece that covered this latest development in the 2014 Amesbury Energy Initiative. Not only does the EV allow the City to save money and conserve energy, but it also serves as a reminder of a unique aspect of Amesbury's history. Amesbury reporter Jim Sullivan explains: http://www.newburyportnews.com/news/local_news/article_21a22611-1210-5294-ac30-41dc51f78fb1.html

Ken

Be a Buddy, Not a Bully

I want to extend a huge thank you to Rosey Werner and Brian Fecteau for co-chairing the committee which organized this morning's first annual "Be a Buddy, Not a Bully" symposium at Amesbury City Hall. Brian, Rosey, and the committee were kind enough to invite me to speak at the event. This is an issue that is close to the hearts of so many, and I'm proud to call Amesbury a leader in the fight to raise awareness.

 

When I spoke this morning, one of the things I touched on was Amesbury's unique dedication to providing for our friends and neighbors in need. We have an incredibly motivated network of non-profits, charities, and an abundance of tireless volunteers who sacrifice their time every single day to help others. Today's symposium was the latest example of that commitment.

 

To the many volunteers and businesses who worked so hard to organize this morning's event -- Thank you again! You all did an excellent job.

 

Ken