3 Pounds Of Marijuana Seized In Tewksbury Hotel: Patch PM

TEWKSBURY, MA — It's Wednesday, Nov. 18. Here's what Patch has been covering in the Merrimack Valley and across Massachusetts today.

Tewksbury police arrested two people Monday and seized over three pounds of marijuana and $16,000, the department said.

Tewksbury detectives saw an apparent drug transaction near the Holiday Inn at 4 Highwood Drive, according to the police narrative. Following an investigation, they arrested a Salem, New Hampshire man and a Lowell woman.

Both were arraigned at Lowell District Court, Tuesday. Read more.

Also in the Merrimack Valley

Chelmsford Girl Surprised With Pop-Up Dining Experience: WATCH

A 5-year-old Chelmsford girl and her family got a special surprise Sunday with a pop-up dining experience by local chef Ming Tsai.

The celebrity chef has been treating people who deserve a little extra cheer during the coronavirus pandemic to an at-home restaurant experience this week.

Local towns report spiking coronavirus rates

Several Merrimack Valley towns have reported surging cases in recent days. Andover reported 186 coronavirus cases, Wednesday, more than double the number just over a week ago, Nov. 9.

Tewksbury reported having more than 100 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases for the first time since the outbreak at the State Hospital, while Wilmington has more cases than it has had since the spring, when it had outbreaks at three nursing homes. The town clerk's office had to close due to an exposure.

Lowell General Hospital announced Wednesday that it is imposing new visitor restrictions due to rising cases.

Across Massachusetts

Melrose's Clark Ascends To Top Democratic Leadership Position

U.S. Rep Katherine Clark was elected by her fellow Democratic House members to the position of assistant speaker, elevating her to one of the highest leadership posts in Congress.

Clark was elected, 135-92, in a remote vote Wednesday. She was vying for the spot against U.S. Rep David Cicilline of Rhode Island.

Clark, of Melrose, is already the second-highest ranking in the House. Now she's the fourth-highest ranking member overall.

The position holds added significance as the three ranking members ahead of them are all in their 80s.

Man Struck On Route 1 In Saugus, Police Searching For Driver

Police are asking for help identifying the driver who drove off after hitting a person on Route 1 Wednesday morning.

The victim, a 24-year-old man from Gloucester, was brought to Massachusetts General Hospital with serious injuries.

State Police said he was struck around 10:17 a.m. on Route 1 South. The man was working at an area business when he stepped into the road to get a barrel that blew over.

Eversource Truck In Crash That Killed Bicyclist In Milton

"This was an absolutely tragic accident. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the victim's family and friends," an Eversource spokesman said.

Chelsea Man Charged In Boston Public Garden Rape

Francisco Romero, 38, forced a woman into the Boston Public Garden and sexually assaulted her Nov. 8, police said.

River Street Closed After Van Crashes Into Poles In Waltham

Crews are working to repair utility poles.

Third Suspect In Wakefield Shooting ID'd

Authorities say Shemar Nelms, 18, shot a woman in the Everly Apartments parking garage in September. Two juveniles also face charges.

Woman Hurled Racial Slurs During Marlborough Fight: Police

The 56-year-old was arrested early Tuesday morning on multiple charges, according to police.

James Taylor, Paula Cole To Headline Cabot Theater's 100th Bash

The historic Beverly theater will host "Lights. Camera. Cabot 100 Celebration." remotely free to those who register on Dec. 3.

2 Women Killed In Separate Crashes In Brockton

Police are still looking for the driver who struck and killed a woman on Pleasant Street at about 7:15 p.m.

And finally today:

Thanksgiving is just over a week away. The state has issued guidance for the holiday, urging residents to limit in-person gatherings to only people they live with or or to small groups that they're in regular contact with. What are your plans for the holiday?