Coronavirus Won't Quit On North Shore: Patch PM

DANVERS, MA — It Thursday, July 9. Here's what Patch has been covering on the North Shore and across Massachusetts today.

The latest release of town-by-town coronavirus data from the state Department of Public Health shows that Massachusetts residents are doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19. But it also shows the stubbornness of the coronavirus and reveals some alarming hotspots on the North Shore.

For the two weeks ended July 8, Salem and Danvers had positive coronavirus test rates above the state average of 2.25 percent and the level where health officials say it's safe to ease up on social distancing measures. Health officials say positive test results need to stay below 5 percent for two weeks or longer and, preferably, be closer to 2 percent, for states to safely ease up social distancing restrictions.

And while Beverly's rate was below the 2 percent threshold, the city had 11 new confirmed coronavirus cases in the week ended July 8, ending a month of steady declines in new cases. It's not clear why the cases increased last week, but the jump in new cases comes less than two weeks after restaurants reopened and Beverly expanded options for restaurants to offer outdoor dining. The week also spanned the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Also on the North Shore

Marblehead Church's 'Black Lives Matter' Banner Vandalized

Marblehead police are asking for the public's help in identifying a "person of interest" in last month's vandalism of a Black Lives Matter banner at the Unitarian Universalist Church on Mugford Street. Police released security footage of the man they are looking to speak with.

Maine Bookkeeper Accused Of Stealing From Danvers Business

A Maine woman has been accused of stealing $60,300 from two small businesses located in Danvers and Haverhill after an Essex County District Attorney's office investigation. Patricia Lindau, 60, Newburgh, ME, was charged with two counts Larceny and two counts embezzlement by tax preparer. The investigation is ongoing and Lindau could face additional charges, the DA's office said.

Across Massachusetts

FBI Continues To Search For Human Remains In Methuen

Multiple sources have said that the search is related to human remains for a man missing out of Manchester. Sources say the man was reported missing in March or April this year.

Also:

• Child Care Burdens Weighing On Work-From-Home Parents, Providers
• Police, DA Investigate Fatal Stabbing In Lowell
• Officer Said 'All Lives Matter' Sign Was Without Intent: Chief

And, finally today: It's looking more and more like New England will have to deal with a coastal storm this weekend.

Dave Copeland writes for Patch and can be reached at dave.copeland@patch.com or by calling 617-433-7851. Follow him on Twitter (@CopeWrites) and Facebook (/copewrites).