Five Things That Made Our Week: March 13 to March 19

Wow, what a week! The last official week of winter was an eventful one in North Andover. Massive explosion next door... college hockey history made... St. Patrick's Day... the mob... it certainly gave us a lot to talk about. Here are five highlights from the past week in North Andover.

Merrimack Madness: Merrimack College's hockey team made history this week when it for the first time in history. Unfortunately for them, the glory was short-lived because they the next night.

Taking on the Mob: The authorities this week for alleged loan sharking in connection with larceny from a temp agency. The indictment is part of a massive prosecution against accused Boston mobster Mark Rossetti and his allegedly widespread organized crime enterprise.

Irish Flare: North Andover may not technically have any actual Irish pubs, but the town rocked the Irish pride on Thursday for St. Patrick's Day. Restaurants around town Wendi Roy shared her favorite And some nice people around town shared their favorite

Explosion Next Door: On Sunday evening, the that rocked the region and had North Andover firefighters rushing to help. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

Smaller Newsmakers: This week we profiled the We also profiled Athlete of the And this week's Whiz Kid was who had her friends donate money to the MSPCA to help homeless animals instead of giving her birthday gifts. And speaking of the MSPCA and animals who need homes, check out our Pets of the Week, Also, click here if you're wondering what to do when you find a pregnant stray cat.