Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Jumpin Jack sign on Highway 495 Southbound

There's a modest sign on the roadside of Highway 495 South, about halfway between Highways 2 and 111. It is simple, with an American flag, and the words "Jumpin Jack". I've wondered what Jumpin Jack was.

Well, he turns out to be a beloved local truck driver named Jack Albert McPhail, a local hero that died while saving others on fateful winter day in March 2007. The story was originally carried by the Boston Herald, but is no longer available.   I was able to track down a Boston Globe article on Boston.com.  It does not mention the nick name "Jumpin Jack".  An obituary still appears on this trucker's forum. It's a good read about the man who was apparently well liked in his community.

For anyone that can safely use Facebook on the road (i.e., a passenger of a car) while passing this sign on 495 S, I've added a place to Facebook to check-in at this location called Jumpin Jack Memorial, classified as a local business under Highway. Facebook is a little odd on how it handles places added by common users, so you may have to search a bit for it (which is why you should be a passenger to attempt the check-in).

Tuesday, July 03, 2012

Salem Harbor

This past Sunday, Allie and I headed over to Salem, MA.  We had brunch at this place called Scratch Kitchen, where the theme seems to be that they make everything from scratch.  The food is fresh, with local (North East) sources.  I had this plate called the Frenched Elvis that combined french toast, bacon and peanut butter.  Surprizingly good.

We headed over to the harbor to catch a ride on the Fame.  Fame is a replica schooner that takes tourists on a 1.75hr tour on Salem Sound.  Though the tour isn't technically narrated, the captain tells the story of original Fame that captured many enemy merchant ships during the war of 1812.  If you are so included, you can also participate in some of the sailing tasks.



Here is Fame on the satellite map.



View Larger Map




After returning to Salem, we had an early dinner and then walked around.  There is a lot of charm to Salem.  Their harbor area is a little touristy, but not crowded with annoying people, at least on this weekend before the big 4th of July holiday. We had a fun and relaxing time.