Lawrence receives one-two punch, El Taller & Cafe Azteca and Canal Street Gym closings

The closures of El Taller & Cafe Azteca and Canal Street Boxing Gym leave a major void in Lawrence. Both served as vital community spaces—El Taller & Cafe Azteca offering food, art, and connection, and the gym providing mentorship, structure, and hope for youth.

El Taller & Cafe Azteca, run by the Guerrero family since 2012, closed last month. It was a creative hub for performances, writing programs, and conversation. Chef Antonio Guerrero is retiring after decades of service.

Canal Street Boxing, led by Bugzy and Daisy Martinez, shut down due to rising rent. For years, the gym was a lifeline for at-risk youth, offering discipline, support, and opportunity. Former fighters credit it with changing their lives.

Both spaces nurtured the city's spirit and now leave behind lasting legacies.

Greater Lawrence Family Health Center Celebrates 45th Anniversary; Posthumously Honors Keller

GLFHC marked its 45th anniversary with a tribute to Rev. James P. Keller, a founder who passed away last year at 93. Keller launched the center in a small former funeral home to provide primary care for the underserved. His children accepted a posthumous award and shared excerpts from his memoir, highlighting early challenges like physician shortages and financial hurdles.

Today, the center has expanded across the region, with leaders honoring Keller’s vision and the teamwork that built its success.

State Awards Lawrence CommunityWorks $491,561 to Train, Place Workers

The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced $6.8 million in Workforce Success Grants for 15 initiatives across Massachusetts to train and place 1,112 workers in high-demand fields like health care, education, and finance. Funded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, the grants aim to close skill gaps, support underemployed residents, and meet employer needs. Nine grants include ESOL training to improve access for non-English speakers.

Lawrence CommunityWorks received $491,561 to train 80 people for Education Paraprofessional roles in partnership with Lawrence Public Schools and The Community Group.