In response to the “local newspaper writer’s” story, this “local blogger” just got a strong dose of  reality. Having been thrown under the bus by local politics, going forward I now understand what we are dealing with. The “local newspaper writer” did not bother to question the source of the information that I wrote regarding the kids being removed from the beach because of a noise complaint. Instead, there was just a great deal of denial and ass covering by all involved. See the highlighted section of the Mayor’s Statement on Student Athlete Good Harbor Beach Workouts below.

I am not going to stoop to their level because what really counts is the kids and the wildlife. The great news is the kids were really lifted by the outpouring of support from the community. They are back on the beach, and the ambassadors will continue to work to keep Good Harbor Beach open for all. As stated often, we Piping Plover Ambassadors are striving to protect the Plovers while working with the community to ensure the beach stays open. Thank you Everyone for your support of Gloucester High School football team practice at Good Harbor Beach and for your continued support of the Piping Plovers!

Beautiful July GHB Sunrise

Mayor’s Statement on Student Athlete Good Harbor Beach Workouts

Some questions have been raised recently regarding our student athlete workouts at Good Harbor Beach.

First, I must mention that the incredible support from the community demonstrates just how much we care about our kids and healthy lifestyles.

I want to clarify a few important facts related to these beach workouts. These workouts have been going on for 36 years. Due to Covid they did not happen the last two years.

The workouts resumed in late June near the Good Harbor Creek. A noise complaint pushed the operation further down the beach. This move resulted in a complaint that their workout was too close to the Plover area at the beach. This resulted in a return to the Creek area with a goal of reducing the noise level.

Another noise complaint in that area from one neighbor caused the Athletic Director to move the operation off of the beach.

Neither the Mayor’s office nor the Department of Public Works was involved in this decision. Further we have not prohibited the High School beach workouts to be conducted at Good Harbor Beach.

I have spoken with the coordinator of the workout and the Superintendent of Schools office and left voicemail with the Athletic Director to clarify that my office has no objection to the students returning to the beach and we actually urge the swift resumption of the beach workouts.

I commend our student athletes for their outstanding behavior.

Keep up the good work coaches and athletes.

Go Fishermen!

Greg Verga

Mayor City of Gloucester, Massachusetts