01.28.2026 - Volume 4, Issue 10

IN THIS ISSUE

ON THE RUN

SPECIAL SENDOFF

AN ACT OF CARE

MHS track teams enjoying successful seasons

Community to gather, say goodbye to beloved resident

Rescue group keeps puppy pair safe from the storm

Page 10

Page 2

Page 14

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NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

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JANUARY 28, 2026

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VOLUME 4, ISSUE NO. 10

FIRST WAVE 1

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MARBLEHEADCURRENT.ORG

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Town approves snow disposal in harbor after storm dumps more than a foot. Page 1.

. Annual State of the Town will spotlight budget woes, possible override. Page 1.

CAHM survey 3 .results reveal

Headers focused on mental health, substance use, street safety. Page 4.

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ON SOCIAL @MHDCURRENT

Local author 4 .thrills with 100-

word stories. Page 11.

A letter writer 5 .shares memories, request for larger skating rink. Page 4.

Five facts from this week’s Marblehead Current.

DOLLARS & SENSE

State of the Town to spotlight growing budget crisis, possible tax overrides

BY LEIGH BLANDER Residents will get a clearer picture of Marblehead’s financial challenges — and a possible need for a general property tax override — at the annual State of the Town address Wednesday, Jan. 28, at 6 p.m. at Abbot Hall and on Zoom at marbleheadma.

gov/event/select-board-state-ofthe-town-meeting/.

Town officials have spent months warning of a deepening fiscal crisis. A recently updated three-year revenue and expense forecast projects a $7 million deficit in fiscal 2027, ballooning to $11 million in fiscal 2028 and $15 million by fiscal 2029 if

current trends continue.

Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin said costs are outpacing property tax revenue, which can increase by only 2.5% per year under state law, aside from taxes on “new growth,” of which Marblehead typically has little.

Employee health insurance

remains the town’s greatest financial pressure. Marblehead participates in the state’s Group Insurance Commission, and early projections suggest another steep increase next year.

“I’m hearing 15% to 17%,” Benjamin said, adding that insurance experts expect doubledigit increases for the next two

to three years.

“It’s really the healthcare that’s burning cities and towns right now,” she said.

About 80% of the town’s budget is tied to personnel costs, including active employees and retirees. The forecast shows the TOWN, P. 3

WINTER STORM

Board OKs emergency dump of snow into harbor

BY LEIGH BLANDER

CURRENT PHOTOS / GREY COLLINS

Campbell Barret (7) sleds down the snowy hill at Gatchells Park with a push from her mom Phoebe Barret.

Ellis, Sam and Tova Harrington whoosh down a snowy hill at Gatchells Park.

More photos, Page 3

Jack Helms sleds down the hill at Gatchells Park during the snow day on Monday morning.

The Select Board met Monday afternoon to declare an emergency that would allow the town to dump snow into Marblehead Harbor at Riverhead Beach and State Street Landing. A major storm dropped more than a foot of snow across town Sunday and Monday.

“We see a threat to public health and safety, and that really is all the snow that we have moved has now been deposited on sidewalks and built up in corners,” said Marblehead DPW Supervisor Amy McHugh. “There’s difficulty seeing … our streets are very small, so we now have narrower streets to get our emergency equipment through, and we have no place to actually put our snow the next round that comes through. We’ll just keep piling it higher and higher. So we would like to remove it.

We’ve done it in the past.”

The Select Board approved the plan, which McHugh said would happen overnights, starting Tuesday at midnight and running through Friday morning.

McHugh explained that the environmental impact will be minimal.

“The snow has not been down for a long period of time, so it hasn’t collected trash,” she said. “We pretreated way prior to the storm and haven’t treated during the (removal) process right now, so there’s no additional salt or de-icer in the snow.”

SNOW, P. 3

CHAMPION SIP

With local roaster’s new blend, you can start day with Maye

BY LEIGH BLANDER Marblehead-based Bond Coffee Roasters is out with a new blend in honor of New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye.

The coffee, called Wake with Drake, was developed to fuel Patriots fans heading into the Super Bowl — and the early mornings that come after it.

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

The release follows the recent debut of the Love the Drake Lager produced by Stellwagen Beer Company of Marshfield.

“We saw the beer and thought, that’s great — but some of us need to be emotionally invested by 9 a.m., not noon,” said Bond Coffee co-founder Chris Buchanan. “You can’t responsibly place your faith in a rookie quarterback without coffee.”

Unlike its fermented counterpart, Wake with Drake is “designed for early mornings, irrational optimism and the annual ritual of explaining to your kids why this year feels different,” according to a press release from the company.

Buchanan said the roast pairs best with Sunday kickoffs, preseason hot takes and the belief that “development, culture and vibes are trending in the right direction.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Bond Coffee of Marblehead has released a new blend, Wake with Drake.

marbleheadcurrent.org

2 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

FAREWELL

Community to gather to send off beloved neighbor

BY LEIGH BLANDER Marblehead residents will soon have a chance to say farewell to a beloved community member as he prepares to relocate permanently to Florida.

Nikolay Kuzmina, 39, is moving to Miami with his sister following the death of his 75-year-old mother, who was killed in a singlevehicle crash in Marblehead on Jan. 8. Kuzmina spent his entire life in town and is a graduate of Marblehead High School.

Dave Aldrich, owner of Grab the Bagel, is organizing a farewell gathering for Kuzmina at the Warwick Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Aldrich, who said he has known Kuzmina for 20 years, is asking people to come at different times.

Here is the schedule:

COURTESY PHOTO

Nikolay Kuzmina with his nephew, Max, in Florida. Nikolay returns to Marblehead this weekend to say goodbye to friends and neighbors.

Last names A-F 10 a.m.; G-L 10:30 a.m.; M-R 11 a.m.; S-z 11:30 p.m.

“If you can’t join Nikolay on Saturday, you can send a 10-15 second video to nikolaymbh@

gmail.com,” Aldrich wrote on Facebook. “We’ll be circulating a book so you can write a personal note.”

On Saturday night, Kuzmina’s sister Olga Golinder emailed the Current, “We would like to thank all from the bottom of our hearts for the incredible support and kindness since our mom tragically passed. We are so grateful to the community, family and friends.

Nikolay is looking forward to seeing his friends next week.”

Kuzmina became a familiar and well-loved figure last spring when the Marblehead High School track team surprised him with a new blue tricycle after his previous one was damaged by a pothole.

He was often seen riding the trike nearly every day around the high school parking lot, a sight that brought smiles to many in town.

PROTEST

About 75 people, bundled up in below-freezing temperatures, rallied Jan. 20 at Tent’s Corner to protest President Donald Trump’s policies as part of a national walkout called “Free America.”

Some demonstrators waved small American flags, while others carried signs reading “Resist Facism,” “Protect Immigrants’ Rights” and “Make America Ethical Again.”

“I came out in solidarity with the people standing out in very cold weather for longer times in

The Current welcomes 150200-word submissions to News in Brief. Send yours to info@ marbleheadnews.org.

Holocaust Remembrance Day The town will observe its fourth annual International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Friday, Jan. 30, at noon at Abbot Hall. The Select Board has proclaimed the day and recognized January as Holocaust Remembrance Month.

In 2005, the United Nations officially designated Jan. 27 as the day of remembrance, now observed by many countries worldwide. The day commemorates the more than six million Jews and millions of other minorities killed by the Nazi regime between 1933 and 1945. The date marks the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp.

A candlelight ceremony will begin at noon with the reading of a proclamation by Select Board Chair Dan Fox. Sasha Ganezer, a Marblehead High School senior and grandchild of Holocaust survivors on both sides of her family, will share her grandparents’ stories and how they have influenced her life.

Rabbi Michael Schwartz of Temple Sinai organized this year’s observance and will lead a 6 p.m.

Friday evening service at the temple, 1 Community Road, in memory of the victims. Fox will be a guest speaker at the service.

All community members are invited and encouraged to attend both the afternoon and evening commemorations.

Call for student art

The MassAudubon’s Youth Climate Leadership Program

Bob Peck NEWSROOM Editor - Leigh Blander

lblander@marbleheadnews.org

Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

Sports Reporter Joe McConnell

jmcconnell@marbleheadnews.org

CONTRIBUTORS

Lizzie Assa Stephen Bach Linda Bassett Virginia Buckingham Julie Flynn Laurie Fullerton James (Seamus) Hourihan Dr. Tom Massaro Christine McCarriston Maggie Mulvihill Eyal Oren Pam Peterson Emily Promise Chris Stevens FREELANCE REPORTERS

Grey Collins Luca Tedesco Akanksha Goyal Bella Travaglini

Gene Arnould Brian Birke Cheryl Byrne Bob Peck Donna Rice Mark Schwartz Richard Weed - Treasurer

Minneapolis, and for our Fourth Amendment rights,” said Jeanne Lambkin. “Everyone deserves due process. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly before the law.”

Lambkin added, “It’s shocking to see the high number of people being detained who have no criminal background. This is all just wrong.”

Passing drivers frequently honked in support, with some waving or giving a thumbs up.

“I’m very connected with families on the North Shore who are immigrants,” said Jean

EDITORIAL BOARD

Brian Birke Peter Fallon Kris Olson Bob Peck Joseph P. Kahn DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kathryn Whorf FOUNDERS

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

From left, Jane Garthe, Jeanne Lambkin and Deb Ketola bundle up against the cold at the Jan. 20 standout against President Trump’s policies.

Hamburg, who held a sign reading “Kidnapping is Still Illegal.”

“The cruelty is beyond words,” she said. “I don’t know what happened to kindness, but we can stand up for what we believe in

and what we think is right.”

Mimi Nelson Oliver said the issue hits close to home.

“I work in Revere and I know many families there that are afraid,” she said.

NEWS IN BRIEF

BY LEIGH BLANDER

CHAIR AND PRESIDENT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bundled up against cold, wind, Headers protest Trump

BY LEIGH BLANDER

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

hosts a Climate Summit at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem and this year, it is kicking things off with an art show.

The program is calling for student artists in grades six through 12 to submit any kind of art (including digital, 2D, 3D, music, film or writing). Selected pieces will be displayed at the museum starting April 3. For more information, visit forms. gle/V9WojZFYsFwQpyXe8.

Retiring after 39 years working for the town On Jan 23, people came to the Marblehead Community Center to celebrate Superintendent of Parks Peter James who is retiring this month after working for the town for 39 years. James is a lifelong Marbleheader, who has only ever worked for the town.

He said he’s looking forward to retirement.

New York Times honor for local author The New York Times has named Eric Jay Dolin’s upcoming book, “The Wreck of the Mentor,” one of its most anticipated nonfiction titles of 2026. Dolin, a Marblehead resident, is the author of several best-selling books.

The new release recounts the story of the whaleship Mentor, which wrecked in 1832 on a remote reef in the western Pacific. The book is scheduled for publication in June.

Memory kits available

Abbot Public Library now offers memory kits designed to help caregivers engage socially with family members and friends experiencing dementia.

Each of the library’s four themed kits — seasons, the United States of America, pets

and birds — includes three to four books, a selection of music and movies, puzzles and a tactile fidget item. The items encourage reminiscence through meaningful activities. Each kit also includes a resource list for caregivers and usage instructions.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the U.S. was projected to reach 7.2 million Americans age 65 and older by 2025, including an estimated 135,200 in Massachusetts.

These numbers do not include individuals with early-onset dementia.

Common characteristics of dementia include memory loss; difficulties with planning, communication and problemsolving; trouble performing complex tasks and confusion.

For more information, visit tinyurl.com/LOT-Home-Health.

A Dementia Primer: Causes, Diagnosis & Trajectory Abbot Public Library will host a lecture, “A Dementia Primer: Causes, Diagnosis & Trajectory,” on Thursday, Feb. 5, from noon to 1 p.m.

Beverly Thorn, Ph.D., author and psychologist, will discuss what dementia is, how it is diagnosed and how it typically progresses. She will also explain how clarifying life values and making advance care plans can ease the burden on patients and families while maintaining dignity and peace of mind.

The online lecture will be shown in the library’s Event Center, followed by a discussion session.

Registration is required and limited to 35 participants.

Register at tinyurl.com/ Age-Well-Dementia.

MHA votes to extend partnership The Marblehead Housing Authority voted unanimously to extend its partnership with the Salem Housing Authority for another five years. Cathy Sheehan serves as director of both agencies.

Nominate a community hero The Marblehead Counseling Center is accepting nominations for the second annual Amy Saltz Community Champions Award.

Established in 2025, the award honors individuals who make significant contributions to the health and wellness of the local community. Nominees should demonstrate service, compassion and leadership, dedicating their time to creating positive change and inspiring others.

Last year’s inaugural recipient was Anne Tassel Todisco of Marblehead.

The award is named in memory of Amy R. Saltz of Marblehead, who devoted her life to helping others and was a longtime supporter of the MCC. Any resident 21 or older living within the MCC service area is eligible. For more information, visit marbleheadcounseling. org/awards/ community-champions-award.

Freelance writing opportunities The Marblehead Current periodically seeks paid freelance journalists to cover municipal meetings and government affairs on an as-needed basis.

To learn more, email editor Leigh Blander at lblander@ marbleheadnews.org.

Jessica Barnett Ed Bell Leigh Blander Will Dowd David Moran Kris Olson DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

North of Boston Media Group Marblehead Current P.O. Box 102 Marblehead, Massachusetts 01945 617-545-5445 info@marbleheadnews.org www.marbleheadCurrent.org Marblehead Current is published every Wednesday by Marblehead News Group, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It is mailed to all homes and businesses in Marblehead, MA 01945.

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IN MEMORIAM

Ed Bell, co-founder, co-chair (2022-2025)

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 3

WINTER WONDERLAND

Storm blankets town with more than a foot of snow A man plays with his dog at Chandler Hovey Park on Sunday.

Snow plows worked overtime to keep up with the recent storm. The Select Board approved dumping some of that snow in the harbor.

Snow The town is alerting the state Department of Environmental Protection and will report on how much snow is ultimately dumped in the harbor.

Residents appeared to take the storm in stride, walking their dogs, shoveling, sledding and trekking out on foot to buy groceries.

Police Chief Dennis King said the town’s storm operations went smoothly, despite one cruiser being involved in a minor accident with no injuries reported. He thanked residents and visitors for complying with the parking ban.

“We had limited tickets issued and only three tows,” King said. “The officers did a great job getting people to move as well.”

King added, “It’s

important to acknowledge all of the fire, police and dispatch personnel working the storm and the DPW, school and Transfer Station snow operation crews, as well as Marblehead Electric Light, are doing a great job in difficult conditions.

We have a town snow team that includes many partners that work together to best respond to the unpredictable weather conditions and this was a significant storm that required a lot of coordination.”

The chief also issued a warning to residents.

“People need to stop putting the snow back into the streets, sidewalks and covering fire hydrants,” King said. “This makes maintaining the streets and sidewalks impossible.

This is prohibited, and we will be monitoring to address violators.”

eliminating, disbanding and defunding that department and all positions related to it.

Limiting employment contracts for municipal employees, except for union contracts, to one calendar year. Existing multiyear contracts would convert to one-year terms upon expiration.

A fourth petition, submitted by Lynn Nadeau, calls for the town

to affirm its “unwavering commitment to founding principles and documents, civil responsibility and the rule of law protecting the rights and welfare of all its people as we celebrate honor and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.”

Town leaders have until Jan. 30 to submit their warrant articles. Town Meeting is held the first Monday in May.

From P. 1

Andy, Otto, Drew, Emmy and Sam Westerkamp trudge through the thickly falling snow on Atlantic Avenue on Sunday afternoon.

Melody Curran trudges through the deep snow on State Street, carrying roses home from Crosby’s Market Sunday.

Town

From P. 1 sharpest growth in salaries — municipal employees signed a new contract last year — as well as in health insurance and pensions.

Trash collection costs are also expected to rise significantly. Public Health Director Andrew Petty told the board the town’s expiring 10-year contracts could result in a 51% increase in fiscal 2027, followed by annual hikes of about 3.5%.

“There will be a balanced budget, but there will be some pretty big reductions to achieve that,” Benjamin said.

School override?

The School Committee faces similar pressures and must decide whether to seek its own property tax override. Superintendent John Robidoux is expected to present his budget to the committee Feb. 5.

CURRENT PHOTO

Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer will deliver Marblehead’s State of the Town address on Jan. 28.

At the committee’s last meeting, he warned of potential staffing and program cuts. The school district, and all town departments, have been told to submit levelfunded budgets. For the schools, that will require $1.7 million in cuts.

Citizens petitions

Four citizens petitions will appear on the Town Meeting warrant this May. Three were filed by the same resident — Marblehead Housing

Authority member Bill Kuker.

Kuker’s proposals include: Restoring the elected terms of the Select Board to one calendar year, effective for the 2027 elections.

Repealing Article 34, passed at the 2024 Town Meeting, which established the Department of Planning and Community Development — thereby

CITATION ON PETITION FOR FORMAL ADJUDICATION Docket No. ES25P3404EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Richard St. George Sides Also known as: Richard St. G. Sides Date of Death: 08/15/2025 Essex Probate and Family Court 36 Federal Street, Salem, MA 01970 (978)744-1020 To all interested persons: A petition for Formal Probate of Will with Appointment of Personal Representative has been filed by Robert J Sides of Newton, MA requesting that the Court enter a formal Decree and Order and for such other relief as requested in the Petition.

The Petitioner requests that: Robert J Sides of Newton, MA be appointed as personal Representative(s) of said estate to serve Without Surety on the bond in unsupervised administration.

IMPORTANT NOTICE You have the right to obtain a copy of the Petition from the Petitioner or at the Court. You have the right to object to this proceeding. To do so, you or your attorney must file a written appearance and objection at this Court before: 10:00 a.m. on the return day or 1/13/26.

This is NOT a hearing date, but a deadline by which you must filed a written appearance and objection if you object to this proceeding. If you fail a timely written appearance and objection followed by an affidavit of objections within thirty (3) days of the return day, action may be taken without fuhrer notice to you.

UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION UNDER THE MASSACHUSETTS UNIFORM PROBATE CODE (MUPC) A personal Representative appointed under the MUPC in an unsupervised administration is not required to file an inventory or annual account with the Court. Persons interested in the estate are entitled to notice regarding the administration directly from the Personal Representative and may petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including the distribution of assets and expenses of administration.

WITNESS, Hon. Frances M. Giordano, First Justice of this Court.

Date: December 11, 2025 Pamela A Casey O’Brien, Register of Probate

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4 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

PUBLIC HEALTH

Debate in deadly The CAHM wellness serious times survey; examining preliminary results Last week, the Marblehead Current published the latest letter from perhaps the town’s biggest — or at least most vocal — supporter of President Trump.

As has happened when we have published previous missives from that same writer, the Current received criticism. We were already considering using this space to address that criticism. Then immigration agents shot and killed a second American citizen in Minneapolis this past weekend. Now, it seems all the more urgent to do so.

There are some who think that, as a local paper, we should confine our opinion pages to matters of local concern. But as we are sure most realize, it is hard to say just what is “local” anymore.

Were he still alive, former House Speaker Tip O’Neil almost certainly would have amended his view, “All politics is local.” These days, it’s closer to the truth to say, “All politics is national.”

The actions of the second Trump administration have been greeted with protest, including within the town’s borders. The Current has covered these protests as news events and provided space on our opinion pages to be used to amplify the message of those protests. We believe we have an obligation to offer the same opportunity to those who disagree with those protests and who are less troubled by the administration’s policies.

Some of our critics mistakenly believe that letter writers, including this particular Trump supporter, are given “carte blanche” to say whatever they want. But that is incorrect.

Despite its small staff, the Current devotes significant time and effort to dialogue with writers over the content of their letters.

Our challenge is to adhere to objective, content-neutral standards, regardless of whether we agree with a writer’s point of view.

One of those standards is that letter writers are not allowed to lie. So, for example, a letter writer would not be allowed to say on our pages, “All liberals celebrated the murder of Charlie Kirk” because such a statement would be demonstrably false.

There are plenty of examples of Democrats who immediately and unequivocally decried Kirk’s killing as a heinous act. Indeed, as far as we can see, that was and remains the prevailing view on “the Left.”

However, because there are notable examples of people publicly celebrating Kirk’s death, too, it is fair game to allow a letter writer to speculate about how pervasive such views might be. We may disagree with his assessment, but it’s not the type of provably false statement that can be easily censored.

Do we think certain letters would be more effective if they were less combative and more respectful of those who hold different points of view? Of course. But generally speaking, we let letter writers themselves decide how best to express their messages.

Then, we leave it to our readers to decide how seriously to take those messages.

It is true the Marblehead Current’s letters policy contains a guideline that writers “may” be limited to 500 words. But we routinely waive that guideline. To selectively enforce that limit against a particular writer based on the content of his letter would be to pick a side in a particular debate. The 500-word limit either has to apply to everyone or to no one. We will continue to consider whether stricter enforcement of the word count across the board makes more sense.

We understand that, especially after the killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, readers can find it alarming and discomforting to be confronted with evidence that one of their neighbors is something other than revulsed by the Trump administration’s actions. But this particular writer has told the Current that, whenever he is published, he receives calls and even cards in the mail from people thanking him for giving voice to their shared viewpoint.

In the 2024 presidential election, nearly 4,000 Marblehead residents — more than one out of every four who voted (28.7%) — chose Trump-Vance. Perhaps some now have buyer’s remorse, but most have likely become only more entrenched in their support.

Such is life in our polarized country, with our media and social media silos.

It seems to us that one of the more important challenges facing local news outlets in such times is whether to exclude Trump supporters from “the conversation.” Doing so would be easier on us, and the numbers suggest it might even be a popular decision.

We are just not convinced that it would be the right decision.

On Page 5, you will see one resident who reacted to the most recent letter of support for President Trump by doing something other than calling on the Current to muzzle that writer. She took a deep breath and wrote a letter of her own. We would encourage you to read it in its entirety.

The writer aptly notes, “The United States has endured and progressed not because one faction dominated, but because competing ideas were debated, tested and constrained by law.”

We will always reflect on whether we are doing what we can to help our nation — and our little corner of it — through turbulent, violent times. But we believe that the way out involves, in part, a renewed commitment to the principles of the First Amendment and those expressed by Justice Louis Brandeis when he wrote of the value of “more speech, not enforced silence.”

Still, we also wholeheartedly endorse the plea in this week’s letter for “more seriousness, more humility, a return to higher standards of responsible public conduct and a renewed commitment to evidence-based debate over accusation.”

We hope all our would-be letter writers take those words to heart.

BY DR. THOMAS MASSARO In anticipation of expansion to five members, the Board of Health regularly discusses strengthening the public health services through an initiative known by the acronym CAHM for Creating A Healthier Marblehead.

CAHM is designed to provide baseline data on the health and wellness of the town today. That baseline will be used to help make strategic decisions about what programs are needed and eventually to document (and be held accountable) for the outcomes of those programs. The BoH raised external funds to support the CAHM initiative. As a result, no Marblehead tax dollars will be required to support this effort.

The first major element of CAHM has been to ask Marblehead residents about their health and wellness today and to hear from them where we should be investing future energy and resources.

We saw the data acquisition phase as critical.

We contracted with a team from UMass Boston headed by Dr. Caitlin Coyle because that team has great experience in developing health and wellness surveys for municipalities (including our neighbors in Salem and Swampscott).

On Sept. 29, we mailed postcards to 16,793 residents inviting them to complete the CAHM Wellness Survey. More than 2550 residents responded. The BoH is very grateful to those who completed the survey.

Initially, our UMass colleagues shared that we should expect about a 10% response rate. The fact that we got a greater than 15% rate suggests that the town would like to see a stronger public health portfolio and that the residents are eager to help shape the direction of those efforts.

Survey design

Wellness analyses generally explore eight dimensions of wellness (emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, occupational, physical, social and spiritual).

UMass had provided a basic template of 50 questions drawn from their previous surveys, but six Marbleheaders from our CAHM Leadership Council spent more than five hours each over two days to customize the survey design. The final version contained 43 questions reflecting, as much as possible, the uniqueness of Marblehead.

Many of the 43 questions contained multiple parts. Virtually all required checking boxes and 21 contained an “other” option where the respondents could write in answers.

Marblehead is the first of the 80 UMass wellness studies to include residents down to 18 years of age. This table indicates populations in each age group and the percentage of that group to complete the survey. (The 18 to 29 age group probably contains a significant number of individuals who use their parent’s address while they are at school or working elsewhere. So, we lumped the below 40 into one larger age group.)

Mental health, sidewalks, cycling safety Even in the early stages of review, we have seen the potential power of this volume of data. The first question asked about quality of life in Marblehead. Eighty-four percent of all respondents checked either the excellent or very good boxes.

However, the 40-49 age group checked only 78%. That group expressed greater concerns in other categories as well. Eighty-eight percent of this group had children under 18 living at home, and 76% indicated parenting was one of their primary sources of stress. In addition, 88% of that group indicated that child and adolescent mental health services were needed in Marblehead.

Pedestrian and bicycle safety are important to all age groups but again, the 40-49 group showed somewhat stronger concerns than the other age groups. If this initial assessment is confirmed, one long-term goal of CAHM should be to help relieve the stress and anxiety of raising a family

in Marblehead today. We anticipate that other similar observations will become obvious as we dig deeper.

The final question asked what else the responder would like the BoH to know. There were 492 written responses to that question!

Sidewalk and road quality received considerable attention as did teen substance use.

What’s next?

The next step for CAHM will be to establish a small number of focus groups to drill down on particular issues which came up in the survey but where more detailed information may help with developing strategic plans for solutions. That process should begin in March.

Age Range 18-391

Number In Age Range 4626

% Responding To Survey 6

40-49

2322

14

50-59

2804

19

60-69

3187

22

70-79

2496

25

80+

1304

11

COURTESY DR. THOMAS MASSARO

Better communication important

There were several questions that basically asked, “What would you like to see in Marblehead about …” Quite often, the responders were suggesting things that already existed. That tells us that we need to do a much better job of information sharing and providing navigation support to individuals seeking information about services available. Improving navigation systems should be seen as low hanging fruit and relatively inexpensive to improve. The BoH should begin to attack this issue without delay.

Collaboration key

We always expected the results would be applicable beyond the BoH, but the number and the breadth of the responses surprised some of us. Many concerns expressed will require collaboration and interaction among other town departments and agencies. That will be a challenge in our traditionally very siloed environment.

For example, improvement in infrastructure received great attention. Repair of sidewalks was probably the biggest single item in the write-in answers. Respondents clearly want Marblehead to become a better walking city. Many commented that being able to easily walk around our beautiful town would impact several dimensions of wellness.

Mental health particularly of the young was another very common issue in both checked boxes and write-ins. (The concern about teen substance use was documented in the surveys well before the recent debate about social hosting had begun.)

Progress will be most significant in this area when public health, public education and public safety elements in town are all working closely together.

Investing in changes

And finally, it is also clear that improving wellness to the level outlined in the survey will take money. In some cases, big money. Given the current situation, we will have to prioritize the least expensive options first. And hope to raise money for others as we move forward. The survey itself cannot contribute to the debate about overrides and future budgets, but perhaps the idea that delaying necessary infrastructure eventually costs more than doing it when the need first becomes apparent may be a valuable lesson to be drawn from the survey responses.

Dr. Tom Massaro is chair of the Board of Health and also serves on the Town Charter Committee. He is an emeritus professor at the University of Virginia where he practiced medicine and taught public health, health law and the business of medicine for many years. He lives in Marblehead with his wife and son.

He is not writing for the Board of Health.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 5

How do you know if what you see on social media is real?

Social media is filled with more false information than ever before.

In recent months, experts have noticed a big rise in misinformation and disinformation online.

Misinformation means sharing something wrong by mistake, while disinformation is a lie spread on purpose. Both are spreading quickly on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, and both can cause real damage.

False posts spread faster than ever One big problem is how fast a lie can travel on social media. A false post can reach thousands of people in minutes. In the past, rumors took longer to spread.

Now, just a few clicks can send an untrue story around the world.

The internet is full of false information, and this problem has grown worse in recent years. Social media has greatly amplified the reach of these lies.

New AI tools have made it even harder to tell what’s real and what’s not. For example, AI can create fake images or videos that look real, tricking people into believing a made-up story.

Many people are confident they can spot a fake post, but that confidence can be misleading. In one survey, close to 60% of people believed they could identify false information online, yet only about one-third (33%) thought others could do the same. This shows that we often think we’re better at spotting lies than we actually

are. If we think we can’t be fooled, we might not stay alert when we should.

Even smart and famous people can be fooled. For example, over 600,000 people – including some celebrities – fell for a hoax on social media. The hoax claimed that if you posted a certain message, it would stop Facebook and Instagram’s owner (Meta) from using your photos.

It wasn’t true at all, but the rumor spread to hundreds of thousands of users before people realized it was fake.

Real harm from false information False information online might seem like just silly rumors, but it causes real harm. Lies about health or safety can have serious consequences. For example, false claims about vaccines led some people to avoid important medicine. In one case, misinformation about vaccines contributed to a measles outbreak in Florida that made many people sick.

Misinformation can also stir up fear and anger. In England, false rumors after a terrible event sparked riots against immigrants in several towns.

People believed untrue stories blaming certain groups, and that led to violence. In many places, communities become divided because of rumors that turn neighbors against each other. A recent report even found that most people see the spread of misinformation as a serious threat to their community.

A worldwide problem

The problem of misinformation isn’t just local — it’s worldwide. In fact, experts say that false information has

Experts say that false information has become one of the biggest global risks we face in the near future.

become one of the biggest global risks we face in the near future. Even some social media companies have struggled with how to handle it. For instance, the company Meta (which owns Facebook and Instagram) recently decided to end its program of using outside factcheckers on its platforms. Many people are worried that without those fact-checks, it might become even easier for fake posts to spread unchecked.

How you can stay safe online False information might be everywhere, but there are ways to protect yourself and others. The first rule is don’t trust everything you see on the internet. If a story or post seems shocking or too good to be true, take a moment to verify it before you share it or act on it. Look for news from reliable sources. Even if it’s not shocking or too good to be true, The Docs have recently been vetting almost ALL posts we don’t have first-hand knowledge on. You can also use factchecking websites like Snopes (a free site known for checking rumors) to see if a claim has been proven false.

A very handy tool is to use a free AI chatbot to help factcheck suspicious information. AI

chatbots are computer programs (often free to use online) that can answer questions and provide information. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to using a free AI tool (also called a large language model, or LLM) to check if something you found online is true: Find a free AI chat tool. For example, you can visit a site like ChatGPT or Google Bard. These are free AI chatbots that anyone can use.

Copy the suspicious text or claim. Highlight and copy the post or statement that you want to check. It could be a social media post or any information you’re unsure about.

Paste it into the AI chat. Open the AI chatbot website and paste the copied text into the chat box.

Ask the AI to check the facts.

Type a question or prompt for the AI. For example: “Is the following information true or false? [Paste the content here] Please explain why.” This tells the AI that you want to verify the information.

Read the AI’s answer carefully. The AI should respond and tell you if the information might be true or false, and it should give some reasons or evidence. If the AI says it isn’t sure, or if you still have doubts, don’t stop there.

Double-check with another source. Even AI can be wrong sometimes, so it’s smart to verify important information with a trusted source. You can try asking another AI chatbot, searching online for the claim, or checking a fact-checking website.

Getting a second opinion will help you be confident about what is true.

By following these steps, you can use new technology to help you sort fact from fiction. Just remember that no tool is perfect, so always use your own best judgment too.

Stay informed and think before you share Misinformation on social media isn’t going away overnight. We all need to stay alert and think twice before clicking “share.” Ask yourself if a post comes from a reliable source and if it makes sense. By using the tips above — like factchecking with AI or websites like Snopes — we can each do our part to stop the spread of false stories. When in doubt, remember that it only takes a few seconds to double-check an article’s title or a suspicious claim online. It’s much better to be sure something is true than to accidentally spread a lie.

False information can hurt people and communities, but we can fight it by staying informed and being careful. By verifying what we see online and sharing responsibly, we can keep ourselves and our neighbors safer from the harm caused by rumors and lies.

Full disclosure: an AI chat tool was used to quickly find the multiple published sources for this article. Until next time: stay safe out there!

Stephen Bach is the owner and chief of surgery at The Digital Docs in Marblehead.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR violent offenders off the streets, A response to and investing in evidence-based the letter, ‘New strategies that reduce repeat Year’s resolutions crime. Accountability and safety are complementary goals. for Democrats’ To the editor: Disagreement is a healthy feature of a democracy.

Dismissal is not.

The recent letter proposing “New Year’s resolutions for Democrats” presents itself as outreach, but it relies largely on caricature, accusation and sweeping claims about the motives and values of tens of millions of Americans. That approach may reinforce the views expressed by the author, but it does little to persuade or inform.

The portrait offered does not accurately reflect the views or values held by Democratic voters. Democratic voters differ, often sincerely, on how best to manage immigration, protect public safety, balance markets with social responsibility, and uphold democratic norms.

Disagreement on policy reflects differing considered judgments in a democratic society, not moral failure or national disloyalty.

When asked what Democrats would do differently, the answer is not a slogan but a set of policy goals that have been stated repeatedly.

On immigration, Democratic policy emphasizes enforcing the border while fixing a broken legal system by increasing asylum processing capacity, strengthening asylum review, targeting trafficking and fentanyl networks, and creating lawful paths for long-term contributors to live and work legally. Border enforcement and legal order are not mutually exclusive.

On public safety, Democratic policy supports funding law enforcement, modernizing policing standards, keeping

On the economy, Democratic policy emphasizes job growth, infrastructure investment, domestic manufacturing, and lowering costs for families, while supporting the closure of corporate tax loopholes and a modest increase in corporate tax rates toward historical levels associated with sustained economic growth.

On energy, Democratic policy supports U.S. energy independence through a realistic mix of domestic production, renewables, and innovation, recognizing that transitions must be gradual, reliable and economically responsible.

On healthcare, Democratic policy seeks to expand access and affordability within a mixed public-private system and reduce prescription drug prices that are significantly higher in the United States than in comparable nations.

These positions are not radical. Several enjoy broad bipartisan public support.

The letter also dismisses numerous elected officials as corrupt, treasonous or un-American, without evidence or distinction. Voters are free to criticize any public figure. But when insults replace argument and labels replace evidence, the result is not persuasion. It is noise.

Democrats also maintain that leaders be held to consistent legal and ethical standards, regardless of party.

That includes acknowledging documented court findings, criminal indictments, and repeated false claims rejected by judges and election officials.

These matters are part of the public record, not partisan invention. Citizens may weigh

COURTESY PHOTO

A couple with the Marblehead Skating Club ice dances on Bobby’s Pond, off West Shore Drive In the 1940s or ’50s

that record as they choose, but dismissing that public record outright does not strengthen the presidency or the nation.

Finally, the suggestion that Americans who dissent from prevailing political views should leave the country misunderstands the nature of patriotism. The right to criticize leaders, question policy, and challenge authority is not a flaw in American democracy. It is one of its defining strengths.

The United States has endured and progressed not because one faction dominated, but because competing ideas were debated, tested and constrained by law.

The country does not need fewer voices or greater certainty.

It needs more seriousness, more humility, a return to higher standards of responsible public conduct and a renewed commitment to evidence-based debate over accusation.

Respectfully, Margaret Bacon Waldron Street

Honor Lars Anderson and build a regulationsize ice rink To the editor: Back in the 1940s, growing up in Marblehead, we had a skating rink; it was on Bay View Avenue on Bobby’s Pond. Marblehead High School played hockey there, and it was home to the Marblehead Skating Club, which was an ice dancing club.

Every Friday night, Saturday night and Sunday afternoon throughout the winter, we would go there, and our parents would ice dance. Every couple of hours, they would stop to clear the ice and resurface it with their

home-made zamboni, which was an old jeep with an old heating oil tank attached to the back filled with water.

After the ice was resurfaced, my uncle Bud would give all us kids skating lessons until the adults were ready to take to the ice again. There was a hut with a wood stove where we could go to stay warm, and there was always a fire going where we could toast marshmallows and get hot chocolate and hot dogs.

The club had many members but was pretty much run by my uncle Bud and Lars Anderson.

In 1947, Lars Anderson, his wife and a number of Marblehead businessmen (mostly members of the skating club), raised money to build the North Shore Sports Center on Boston Street in Lynn.

In 1948, Lars and Bud changed the name of the Marblehead Skating Club to the North Shore Skating Club which moved to The Sports Center when it opened on Jan. 23, 1949. There were an estimated 7,000 people there for the opening.

Weston Adams from Marblehead, owner of the Bruins Hockey team, gave the opening address; it was a big day for sure.

A year or two after the opening of the rink, the North Shore Skating Club became a USFSA member (United States Figure Skating Association) and changed from an ice dancing club to a figure skating club.

Shortly after opening the rink, Herb Pickering from Swampscott and Bud started the first Peewee hockey league. Bud also started, along with others, Marblehead’s youth hockey program, and then, his pride and joy, Bud started the all-girls hockey team.

He purchased an old, small school bus and drove his team of girls all over for them to play, LETTERS, P. 12

marbleheadcurrent.org

6 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

HIGH HONORS

Charter School recognized at State House

BY LEIGH BLANDER

COURTESY PHOTOS

MCCPS Head of School Stephanie Brant stands with DESE Commissioner Pedro Martinez, left, and state Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler on Jan. 21.

Marblehead Community Charter Public School was honored at the State House last week for being designated one of 63 Schools of Recognition.

According to the state’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Schools of Recognition “demonstrate progress toward annual accountability targets, with an emphasis on improved achievement in ELA [English language arts] and math.”

MCCPS Head of School Stephanie Brant met with state education leaders at

the ceremony.

“Being named a School of Recognition by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education — one of just 63 schools out of 1,500 statewide — is a powerful testament to the extraordinary work of our teachers, and it was an honor to accept this award on behalf of our school and the educators whose dedication and high expectations made it possible,” Brant told the Current. “I am thrilled that their exceptional work is being recognized and MCCPS Head of School Stephanie Brant (first row, second celebrated at the state from right) stands with leaders from other Schools of level.”

Recognition at the State House.

HISTORY

Students learn about African-American heroes at special portrait presentation

BY LEIGH BLANDER On Friday afternoon, members of the Marblehead Racial Justice Team presented students at Veterans School with portraits of two AfricanAmerican heroes — Congressman John Lewis and Harriet Tubman — as part of an ongoing tradition.

During the presentation, the Veterans School chorus sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black American national anthem.

Students then took turns reading aloud about Lewis and Tubman and their impact on U.S. history.

Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland and escaped in 1849.

Once free, she secretly

returned to the south 13 times, rescuing about 70 enslaved people by following a hidden route of safe-houses called the Underground Railroad.

She traveled to Boston many times giving speeches on abolishing slavery. When the Civil War started, she was a spy for the Union Army.

Lewis was born in Troy,

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Cindy Tower-Loewen (far left) and Lou Meyi (far right) present portraits of Harriet Tubman and Congressman John Lewis to students at the Veterans School Friday.

Alabama, and worked as a sharecropper on a farm.

MRJT member Louis Meyi told students that he grew

up at the same time in Louisiana.

“So I can give first hand experience when I was

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growing up of how white people in power had rules to make life hard for African Americans.

Congressman Lewis did lots of things to change the rules … He accomplished those things with nonviolent action and that’s a key takeaway.”

Lewis, who died in 2020, was famous for encouraging activists to get into “good trouble.”

The portraits were painted about five years ago by North Shore artist Anne Demeter, who gifted them to the Marblehead Racial Justice Team. MRJT decided to present them to Marblehead Public Schools — a new school each year.

The portraits have already been displayed at the Brown, Glover and Village Schools.

They will be hung in the Veterans School library for the next year.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 7

OVERLINE

Candidates lay out competing visions at 6th congressional district forum

BY BRENDAN CASSIDY, SWAMPSCOTT TIDES The seven announced candidates for Massachusetts’ 6th Congressional District met Wednesday at a Democratic candidates’ forum, discussing topics ranging from party leadership to the U.S.’s involvement in conflict around the world.

The Ipswich Democratic Town Committee sponsored Wednesday night’s forum at Ascension Memorial Church’s Boone Hall. John Beccia, Bethany Andres-Beck, Jamie Belsito, Rick Jakious, Dan Koh, Tram Nguyen and Mariah Lancaster participated.

The 6th District’s congressional seat is up for grabs after Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA) announced he would challenge Sen. Edward Markey in the Democratic primary ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Markey, 79, would be among the oldest members of Congress if he were to win.

The candidates

Beccia, a Lynnfield lawyer, announced in early January that his campaign would report $1 million cash on hand following its first quarter of fundraising. After graduating from Providence College and attending law school at night, Beccia built a career working with federal regulators to combat terrorist financing and consumer fraud. He later became a leader in the emerging field of financial technology.

Andres-Beck is a senior staff software engineer and Democratic activist who lives in Middleton. They describe themselves as “agender, trans, queer and proudly Unitarian Universalist.” Andres-Beck graduated from Smith College with a degree in costume design.

They announced a primary challenge against Moulton in June, prior to his Senate campaign launch.

Belsito is a former state representative for the 4th Essex District and currently serves as town moderator in Topsfield. A Reading native who now lives in Topsfield, she is the founder of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, where she worked on federal initiatives to support mothers and families.

Belsito was recently endorsed by former Gloucester Mayor Greg Verga. She unsuccessfully ran against Moulton in 2020.

Jakious, a Swampscott resident, served as a longtime aide to Moulton, holding roles as district director and, more recently, chief of staff. He previously served as CEO of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network, leading statewide efforts to strengthen nearly 35,000 nonprofit organizations.

He also held local and national roles with City Year, a Bostonbased education nonprofit.

Jakious ended the first quarter of his campaign with nearly $300,000, which his campaign said was raised “by listening to voters in all 39 communities, not courting Washington insiders.”

Koh is a former Andover Select Board member and Biden White House aide. He served as deputy cabinet secretary, overseeing communications, policy and logistics between the White House, Cabinet and federal agencies. Koh previously served as chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Labor and chief operating officer of the software platform HqO. He announced in early January that he raised more than $2 million in less than one quarter, setting a fundraising

SWAMPSCOTT TIDES PHOTO / BRENDEN CASSIDY

andidates running for the 6th District debated Jan. 21 in Ipswich. They are (left to right) John Beccia, Tram Nguyen, Rick Jakious, Jamie Belsito, Dan Koh, Bethany Andres-Beck and Mariah Lancaster

record for any Massachusetts U.S. House candidate. His campaign reported more than 3,000 contributions. Koh, who lives in Andover, has been endorsed by former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and former Rep. John Tierney, who represented the 6th District for over a decade. He has also received an endorsement from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 35, which represents more than 4,000 workers across the region.

Lancaster is the latest to join the candidate race. They are a veterinarian, who previously worked as a congressional aide. Lancaster also served as a foreign affairs officer at the State Department, working against environmental crime and corruption. When Republicans took over Congress, Lancaster moved into nonprofit government affairs work.

Lancaster recently called for the abolition of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following the killing of Renee Good in Minneapolis. The 36-year-old candidate identifies as non-binary.

Nguyen is the current 18th Essex District state representative, serving Andover, Boxford, North Andover and Tewksbury. She chairs the House Committee on Climate Action and Sustainability, making her the first Asian American woman to chair a committee in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Born in Vietnam, Nguyen immigrated to the U.S. with her family at age 5 and grew up in the Merrimack Valley. She previously worked at Greater Boston Legal Services, representing survivors of domestic violence in family and immigration law. According to her campaign, Nguyen has raised more than $255,000 from 1,185 individual donors, with more than 80% of funds coming from Massachusetts-based contributors.

The questions

After each candidate had the chance to introduce themselves to the audience, members of the public were invited up to a microphone to ask their own questions.

The first question to the candidates was about the path forward for Democrats and what each candidate can do to contribute to change.

“I think that we need people

in Congress that are prepared to take direct action,” said AndresBeck, “who are prepared to stand up, be brave, stand for what we stand for, take clear positions instead of trying to make donors happy. We need to give people something positive to vote for.”

Beccia said the party needs people in Congress who are going to vote with courage and conviction and stand up for democracy. He said there is currently too much of “not doing what is right.”

“Democrats have to stop talking, and start doing,” said Belsito, who said she is tired of Democrats asking for her vote when they aren’t putting in the required amount of effort. “We need to get money out of our elections. We had the House, the Senate and the White House, and we didn’t do it, and we need to ask our leadership to do that.”

Jakious said winning the midterms and the next presidential election is a “need” for the Democratic Party.

“What I don’t hear people talking about is what does the day after Donald Trump look like,” said Jakious. “We need to have a serious conversation about what the Democratic Party looks like. We need to stand firm with our values while creating a bigger tent and bringing people back.”

Koh said he is worried the Democratic Party might not make it to midterm elections unless the party starts fighting harder each day. He said every day President Donald Trump does “something more crazy” than the last, and the media reacts passively – either out of fear or lack of understanding.

“There’s a lot of focus on Trump as a human being and not a lot on the infrastructure that put him there,” said Lancaster. “We spend a lot of time thinking about regaining power and what are we going to do when we do and not a ton of time thinking about how did we lose it in the first place, how did we get here.”

Nguyen said the community needs hope as well as exciting candidates that people want to support and get behind.

“We need to be bold and we need to stand up,” said Nguyen.

One audience member said she was concerned that the Democratic Party had become “as much of a war party as the Republican Party.” She asked the candidates whether they

would vote in support of the shipping and supplying of arms to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

“I will not vote for a single dime to go to a country that is violating human rights,” said Lancaster.

Nguyen said the U.S. should never give a blank check to anyone without accountability.

“Every single dime that we give to any country should come with conditions that we should uphold,” said Koh. Andres-Beck said their political life started when they protested the Iraq War, so in the “day and age of modern warfare we need to take responsibility for how our resources are being used, the impact of sanctions, not just bombs, and where we are standing up for our values versus where we are standing up for dollars.”

Candidates were also asked if they would support Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jefferies (D-NY) as the next Speaker of the House or seek an alternative.

“I think we need to look at all of our options,” said Beccia. “We need to go in there and we need to shake things up in a real way.

I think we need to find the best person to really lead our part at a really critical time.”

Belsito said she wouldn’t make that decision until she is in Washington D.C. Jakious said he thinks “we are all” frustrated with Democratic Party leadership, adding that it needs to be diversified.

“We need leaders that represent what our electorate looks like and should look like,” Jakious said. “I think it’s too soon to answer the question about Leader Jefferies. I think we have to see what the results of the midterm election are.”

Closing statements

Candidates closed the forum by offering brief final remarks.

“I think that I bring experience that no one that has come up through one of the conventional pathways is going to bring,” said Andres-Beck. “We need somebody in congress who understands how the internet works. We need someone in congress who is prepared for the coming technology and the revolution that that’s going to bring.”

Beccia said someone who truly cares about the district community is needed.

“Our democracy is under

attack and we need people with maturity, experience and a common sense to get things done and bring people together,” said Beccia. “I’ve done that through the course of my career in the private sector…No one will outwork me,” he said.

Belsito spoke about her previous experience serving the community.

“I am on the frontlines making sure that women are protected, that our elders are protected, that mental health is protected,” said Belsito. “I can start this job on day 1. I’ve done it for you before.”

Jakious said people are scared, hurting and they have been for a long time. He said people are right to not think their government cares or is listening currently.

“When a local brewery owner came to me and said the only thing between him and opening his business was a USDA permit, I helped him get that business,” said Jakious. “I believe I have an unparalleled understanding of this district, of its community, of its people. I also understand how to get things done in Washington, D.C.” Koh said the country’s democracy is at stake and that this is a very scary time.

“Every single day the news gets more and more horrifying,” Koh said. “The question is, at this inflection point, who you elect and what experiences does that person have to be ready on day one to fight for the right things and to stand up to this president while also standing up for the most vulnerable communities in this district.”

Lancaster said the Democratic Party has to take concrete action and has to do it together.

“We have a choice in this race,” they said. “It’s up to you to decide what kind of democrat you want to send. I want you to think about what your values are, what our values are and what we’re each gonna bring.”

Nguyen said she wants to show people that the government can be a source of good.

“We need someone who can really understand the struggles of the people,” said Nguyen. “I know what it’s like to have to stand in the food pantry line.

I know what it’s like to live in public housing…This is exactly why I’ve spent my entire career in public service.”

This article is shared with the permission of The Swampscott Tides. Monica Sager contributed to this story.

8 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 9

Sports HOOPS

Magicians pick up a pair of dominant wins over conference rivals Danvers and Winthrop

BY LUCA TEDESCO A lopsided first half helped the Marblehead Magicians boys basketball to a dominant 71-56 win over the Danvers Falcons in Danvers Jan. 20.

“It was a game that Danvers never quit on,” said Marblehead coach Michael Giardi. “I think we took things for granted and assumed that Danvers was just going to lay down at the end. We were up big, I think almost 30 points, and they fought their way back and cut it down in half. Our guys have to be ready for that.”

Marblehead applied massive front court pressure from the opening tip, forcing a number of turnovers in the first quarter with the aggressive four-man trap on defense.

The ball seldom left the Danvers end in the first five minutes of the game as the Magicians flew out to a 15-2 lead before the Falcons called timeout with 3:34 to play in the first.

Marblehead’s bigs dominated the glass, with Blake Golden and Tommy Mc Govern combining for 12 of the Magicians 22 first quarter points, the majority of which came on second chance opportunities.

The visitors rained points on the Falcons while allowing very few in the opposite direction.

Danvers entered double digits as a team with just under five minutes to play in the first half, at which point Marblehead had already accrued 33 points.

Marblehead’s full court dominance continued all the way to the halftime buzzer.

McGovern’s 15-point first half combined with an impressive defensive performance saw the Magicians head to the locker room with a 46-20 lead after 16 minutes of action.

Down big heading into the

CURRENT PHOTOS / LUCA TEDESCO

Adam Loughlin of Marblehead dives in an attempt to save the ball from going out of bounds during a basketball game between the Marblehead Magicians and Danvers Falcons at Danvers High School on Jan. 20.

second half, Danvers’ mantra of “just keep fighting” appeared to inspire a strong third quarter performance. After giving up an 8-0 run, the Falcons finished the quarter with a 13-2 streak of their own to reduce the deficit to 23 at the horn.

The constant full-court pressing that Marblehead had committed to early in the game had taken its toll on the players as the fourth quarter dragged on. While the scoring was relatively even through the first five minutes of the quarter, a major momentum shift in favor of the final few minutes would see Danvers finish the game on a 16-2 scoring run.

The offense would come just a bit too late for the Falcons, however, as the Magicians’

Marblehead’s Rylan Golden (11) and Finn Baron trap Buddy Martin (24) of Danvers along the sideline.

brutally efficient first half would see the visitors out to an impressive 71-56 victory.

Golden’s 17-point performance led the scoring column, with McGovern and Rylan Golden adding 15 and 12 points respectively.

Learning from their second half mistakes, Marblehead routed the Winthrop Vikings 63-34 at home on Friday night.

Defensive turnovers turned into significant scoring threats as 10 Magicians were listed in the scoring column, with Finn Baron leading the team with 13 points.

Marblehead’s pair of wins sees them advance to 8-3 on the season. The Magicians were set to face the rival Beverly Panthers at home on Tuesday in the return game of the season series.

MHS ROUNDUP

Hockey Headers begin to turn the corner; Wrestlers show fight in this week’s notebook

BY JOE MCCONNELL

Hockey Headers make it two in a row After getting their first win of the season against Danvers on Jan. 17, the Hockey Headers (2-8-1) had to wait a week to make it two straight, which they did against Masco at Haverhill’s Valley Forum last Saturday night, Jan. 24, 4-3.

Can this be the start of another miraculous comeback like the one two years ago, which propelled that group to the state title? Only time will tell, but first-year coach Brendan Locke is still thrilled that his club has reversed that negative trend with still 10 games left on the regular season schedule.

The team’s second win of the year was powered by Teddy Dulac, who finished up with two goals and one assist against the rival Chieftains.

The Marblehead boys set the tone early on in the game. Just minutes into the first period, Dulac threaded a perfect feed to

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

Holden Ferreira, who completed the scoring play with his sure shot on net.

But Masco came back with two goals to take the lead, before Dulac changed the momentum with a shorthanded tally. “(Dulac) intercepted a pass, and (immediately) accelerated up ice, before ripping it past the Masco goal,” said Locke.

The score was now tied at two after one period. The Marblehead boys were then able to reclaim the lead in the second period after another Masco turnover. Ryan Frary finished it off with the go-ahead goal, before Dulac appropriately netted the game-winner late in the middle period after turning in a great individual effort with a rocket shot that beat the Masco goalie top shelf. Between those two Marblehead scores, Masco tied it up at three.

Neither team scored a goal in the third period, but the Marblehead defense, led by goalie Bowden Laramie, made sure it did its part to maintain

the slim lead. Laramie finished up with 21 saves, as the winning is starting to become habitforming for these Headers.

Shorthanded wrestlers keep on competing with fine efforts The Marblehead High Black & Blue co-op wrestling team (3-10) lost a tough match to the Salem / Hamilton-Wenham co-op on its Senior Night, Jan. 21, at Salem High School, 52-27.

“Kudos to Coach Cliff and his squad, they put on a great show with cross mat intros under a spotlight. That was very cool,” said Marblehead coach Mike Stamison.

Kenny Drolette (113-pounds), captain Liam O’Brien (138), Andrew Delisle (157), captain Colin Hart (175) and Phineas Jakious (215, via forfeit) were the Black & Blue winners against the Witches. The visitors also won three of the six exhibition matches, all by pinfall.

On Jan. 17, the Black & Blue wrestlers lost a quad meet at

Billerica to the likes of Lawrence (59-15), Greater Lawrence Tech (72-11) and host Billerica (48-28).

“It was a very disappointing showing, but there were some bright spots that should be acknowledged,” said Stamison.

Greater Lawrence Tech defeated the Marblehead co-op, but O’Brien avoided the shutout with the team’s lone win. Young seventh grade grappler Eliott Donato (113-pounds) had the opportunity to raise his hand in victory after securing a win by forfeit. Freshman Connor Zundl was credited with an exhibition win.

O’Brien and Hart won their matches against Lawrence, both by pinfall. There was also the gritty 9-8 win by Delisle, who had the decisive takedown to go up by one with 20 seconds to go in the match.

“We had our best showing on this day against the host Indians,” said Stamison.

Sophomore Anna Cruikshank and freshman Connor Zundl recorded exhibition victories.

There was then a solid major decision 11-2 win for O’Brien, who got the team’s varsity scoring going. It was followed up by two sweet wins by pinfall from freshman Nolan Glass and Hart. “That one of Nolan’s best matches in his young high school career to date,” said Stamison.

Junior Colin Homan picked up a win by forfeit, and after a no contest at 215, senior Xavier Tejeda displayed his endurance in a heavyweight matchup. He was trailing, 3-0 going into the third period, before the coaching staff made the change to start him on top. He was then able to turn it around and pin his opponent as time was running out.

“If we were able to have another match go our way, the final score would have been much closer,” said Stamison.

“This is why it is imperative that kids show up. I (still) don’t know why wrestling is treated differently than any other varsity sport in terms of commitment.”

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

TRACK

Marblehead indoor teams enjoy winning seasons

BY JOE MCCONNELL

quite impressive, considering she had to do it on a flat, 150meter track. Zoe Dwyer (47.5) took home the bronze. Molly Chamberlin (51.0) stepped up to the varsity to secure a sixthplace finish.

The Marblehead High boys indoor track team remains undefeated with a record of 4-0-1, while the girls are 3-1-1 after each team’s latest win at home against Saugus on Jan. 22.

The boys upended the Sachems, 68-12. The girls pretty much did the same, 65-21.

Previously, the Magicians faced Peabody in Swampscott on Jan. 8. The boys were victorious, 45-41, but the girls lost, 50-36.

They then took on Masco on Jan. 15 at Gloucester, and both ends of that meet ended up in a tie, 43-43.

Against Peabody in the high jump, captain Lucy Flynn (4-1) finished fourth. Captain Maggie Miller (3-10) was seventh. Clark Roszell (6-2) continued his dominance as a high jumper with another victory. Teammate Owen Coyne (6-0, personal best) came in second. Colin Burke (5-6) completed the sweep with a third-place finish. Ethan Harwood (5-6, fifth) and Noah Smerka (5-4, seventh) rounded out the team’s high jump lineup against the Tanners.

Boys 300

Eben Weed (40.5) remained perfect on the season with another first place finish in this event. Slater Johnson (41.9) was fifth.

Girls 55-meter dash

COURTESY PHOTOS / TANYA BRAGANTI

Marblehead High junior Naomi Goodwin throws the shot put during a meet against Peabody on Jan. 8.

the first move late in the race, but Will didn’t panic, and was able to find another gear in the final 100-meters to steal the win in 4:48, which was also a twosecond personal best.”

Owen Meunier (5:55) made his debut as a miler, and came in fifth.

Girls shotput

Girls 1,000

Lillian Reddy (31-2) went up against Madison Holleran of Peabody, only to come up just short in second place. Julia Betz (22-9, sixth), Naomi Goodwin (21-2.5, seventh) and Sarah Heenan (17-6, eighth) also participated in the shotput.

Marblehead High senior Slater Johnson, front, runs the 300 against Peabody, with classmate Grady Becker closing the gap in third place.

Boys shotput

Senior captain Marri O’Connell (3:12.6) beat out Peabody’s best distance runner Lauren Foley for the top spot.

Evie Becker (3:45.5) finished fourth, and Maddie Gelb (4:39.9, 10-second personal best) accounted for a sixth-place finish.

Graham Firestone (39-0, second) and Logan McRaeHughes (38-3.5, third) scored four critical points for the team, which helped secure the overall win. Alex Humphreys (35-11, fifth) and Jovani Quinonez (31-7, eighth, personal best) also took part in this event.

Boys 1,000

Girls two-mile

After Norah Walsh (1:51.4) finished second, Maggie Miller held off two Peabody runners to pick up a much-needed third place point. Elisabeth Greely (2:14.4), a newcomer to middle distance racing, came through with a sixth-place finish.

Ruby Assa (12:51, second) knew going into this run that she had a tough matchup against Ella Braz. “(Assa) worked in front to control the race, while pushing the pace occasionally to keep Braz on her toes,” said coach Will Herlihy. “Unfortunately, Ella’s kick was just a little too much, but Ruby’s time is still something that she can be proud of.”

Jesslyn Roemer (13:44) ran a strong second mile to pull away from her Peabody counterpart to finish third. Ginny Donato (14:39) turned in a solid time, while making her varsity debut

Girls mile

Boys two-mile

According to head coach Nolan Raimo, the race of the day belonged to Zach Pike (10:44, nine-second personal best), who bested the entire field. Crosscountry runner Isaac Durand (11:49.8) made his debut in this long-distance event, coming in an impressive fourth.

VARSITY SCOREBOARD Tuesday, Jan. 20 Girls basketball: Danvers 47, Marblehead 29 Boys basketball: Marblehead 71, Danvers 56 Wednesday, Jan. 21 Boys wrestling: Salem 52, Marblehead 27 Thursday, Jan. 22 Girls indoor track: Marblehead 65, Saugus 21 Boys indoor track: Marblehead 68, Saugus 12 Co-ed swimming: Marblehead 97, Gloucester 79 Girls gymnastics: Marblehead 129, Salem 101 Friday, Jan. 23 Girls basketball: Winthrop 58, Marblehead 53 Boys basketball: Marblehead 63, Winthrop 34 Saturday, Jan. 24 Boys wrestling: North Attleboro 64, Marblehead 12 Girls hockey: Newburyport 6, Marblehead 0 Boys hockey: Marblehead 4, Masconomet 3 Sunday, Jan. 25 Girls gymnastics vs. Bishop Fenwick (PPD, snow) TEAM RECORDS, MIAA POWER RANKINGS (THROUGH JAN. 25) Girls gymnastics, 2-2 (No. 19 in North) Co-ed swimming, 4-0 Boys basketball, 8-3 (No. 22 in Div. 2) Girls basketball, 6-5 (No. 37 in Div. 2) Boys hockey, 2-8-1 (No. 34 in Div. 3) Girls hockey, 3-8-1 (No. 27 in Div. 2) Boys indoor track, 2-1-1 Girls indoor track, 2-1-1 Boys wrestling, 3-7 (In basketball and hockey, top 32 power-rated teams qualify for the MIAA tournament, regardless of record.)

Sarah Munroe (6:04.7) cruised to an easy win. Nadia Siragusa (6:16.5, six-second personal best) snagged third. Sophia Letwin (6:45.4) was right behind her in fourth.

Boys mile

“Will Cruikshank ran an electric race against a strong group of Peabody runners,” said Herlihy. “Peabody made

Boys 600

Freshman Charlotte Hodgkinson captured the silver medal with a personal best time of 47.2. Her run was

Girls 55-meter hurdles

Charlotte Greten (11.0) crossed the finish line in fourth place. Faith Apostolopoulos (11.3) was close behind in fifth place. Izzy Anaya Lanzillo (11.8) followed her teammates across the finish line in sixth place.

Girls 4x400 relays

Flynn, Walsh, Munroe and O’Connell (4:27.2) teamed up to beat Peabody’s top squad.

Henrik Adams (1:35.5) battled three Peabody runners to finish second overall.

Girls 300

Coyne (6.6) took home first place in the dash, which is unbelievably fast considering there were no spikes allowed on the track, according to Raimo.

Nate Selby (6.9) ended up third over Peabody’s Henry Sawyer, one of the top long sprinters in the state. Burke (7.1, personal best), a varsity newcomer to this event, finished fifth.

Noah Jackson (8.3), Graham Firestone (8.9) and Elian Colon (9.3) swept the hurdles to secure nine points for the team.

Girls 600

in this distance event.

Boys 55-meter dash

Boys 55-meter hurdles

Victor Pechhold (3:10.2, personal best, third), Felix Rengault (3:20.1, fourth) and Owen Harrison (3:30.2, threesecond personal best, sixth) turned in fine performances in this long-distance race.

Marblehead High junior Logan McRae-Hughes is in the middle of throwing the shotput during a meet against Peabody on Jan. 8.

Flynn (7.3) bested the competition once again to remain undefeated, not only in this event, but also in the 300 and 4x400 relay. Cora Gerson (8.1) finished fourth. Lidia Jasmine Tiedra (8.4) was sixth.

Boys 4x400 relays

Voeuncenzo Vorn, Cruikshank, Jackson and Johnson (3:54.7) battled one of the top teams in the conference to finish a close second on a flat 150-meter track, which should convert to a 3:45 time on a 200-meter banked track, said Raimo.

Senior Day coming up

Before the tri-meet against Winthrop and Salem at home on Feb. 4, the seniors on both the boys and girls rosters will be honored for their contributions to the program the last four years.

MHS VARSITY SCHEDULES Wednesday, Jan. 28 4:30 p.m.: boys and girls indoor track vs. Swampscott and Danvers at MHS gym 7:30 p.m.: boys hockey vs. Gloucester at Salem State Rockett Arena Thursday, Jan. 29 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Blue Hill Ski Area, Canton 7 p.m.: co-ed swimming vs. Swampscott at Lynch-van Otterloo YMCA 7 p.m.: boys wrestling vs. Beverly at MHS gym 7:30 p.m.: girls gymnastics vs. Winthrop and Essex North Shore Agricultural at Lynch-van Otterloo YMCA Gymnastics Center Friday, Jan. 30 7 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Masconomet at MHS gym 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs. Masconomet at Masconomet gym, Boxford 7 p.m.: co-ed swimming at NEC Dive Championships at Peabody YMCA Saturday, Jan. 31 10 a.m.: boys and girls indoor track at NEC Championship Meet, Reggie Lewis Center, Boston 3:45 p.m.: co-ed swimming at NEC Swim Championships at Sterling YMCA, Beverly 6 p.m.: girls hockey vs. Beverly at Endicott College Raymond Bourque

Arena, Beverly 8 p.m.: boys hockey vs. Beverly at Endicott College Raymond Bourque Arena, Beverly Sunday, Feb. 1 10:30 a.m.: boys hockey vs. Methuen at Salem State Rockett Arena Monday, Feb. 2 6 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Ipswich at Ipswich High gym 7:30 p.m.: girls hockey vs. Concord-Carlisle at Salem State Rockett Arena Tuesday, Feb. 3 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Ski Ward Ski Area, Shrewsbury 7 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Salem at MHS gym 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs. Salem at Salem High gym Wednesday, Feb. 4 4:30 p.m.: boys and girls indoor track vs.

Winthrop and Salem at MHS gym 7 p.m.: boys wrestling vs. Winchester at Swampscott High gym 7:30 p.m.: girls hockey vs. Gloucester at Salem State Rockett Arena Thursday, Feb. 5 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Blue Hills Ski Area, Canton Friday, Feb. 6 7 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Peabody at Peabody High gym 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs. Peabody at

MHS gym Saturday, Feb. 7 9 a.m.: boys wrestling at Greater Lawrence Tech at Greater Lawrence Tech small gym, Andover 4 p.m.: boys hockey vs. Peabody at Peabody High baseball diamond 7:30 p.m.: girls gymnastics vs. Beverly at Sterling YMCA, Beverly Sunday, Feb. 8 10:30 a.m.: girls hockey vs. Winthrop at Salem State Rockett Arena Monday, Feb. 9 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Blue Hills Ski Area, Canton 5:30 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Shawsheen Valley Tech at Shawsheen Tech gym, Billerica 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs. Bishop Fenwick at MHS gym Tuesday, Feb. 10 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Ski Ward Ski Area, Shrewsbury 7:30 p.m.: boys hockey vs. Danvers at Endicott College Bourque Arena, Beverly Wednesday, Feb. 11 7 p.m.: boys wrestling vs. Essex North Shore Agricultural at MHS gym 7:30 p.m.: girls hockey vs. Masconomet at Salem State Rockett Arena

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 11

CURRENT EVENTS

Marblehead’s best bets Current Events spotlights notable happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email Current editor Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org.

—Leigh Blander

March to Burial Hill

’90s Karaoke Night

Saturday, Jan. 31, 5 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 30, 6-8 p.m.

Join Marblehead Charter for a ’90s-themed Karaoke Night. This is a free, allages community event.

Sing your favorite ’90s hits, dress in your best throwback style, and enjoy a fun evening with friends and family. Food and sweet treats will be available for purchase. This night is part of MCCPS’ 30th anniversary celebration. RSVP at https:// bit.ly/4qSa6mh.

Digital Disconnect Sunday, Feb. 1, 2-4 p.m.

Are corporate monopolies turning the internet against democracy? Come see “Digital Disconnect,” a provocative film by the Media Education Foundation. “Digital Disconnect” explores how corporations like Comcast, Verizon, Facebook and Google have impacted the internet. A Q&A will follow the film. Free event, open to all, at UU Church of Marblehead, 28 Mugford St.

The members of Glover’s Regiment will commemorate the life of Gen. John Glover in their annual march to Burial Hill. Glover died on Jan. 30, 1797, and is entombed at Burial Hill. The commander of the regiment, Capt. Seamus Daly, will deliver an oration remembering Glover’s service to the country, state and town. Members of the regiment will then fire three musket volleys and will march back to the Old Town House. Members of the public and re-enactors are invited to join the regiment as they march under lantern light and drumbeat from the

Old Town House on Washington Street to Glover’s tomb. While members of the regiment will be in 18th-century attire, members of

the public are welcome to attend in 21st-century clothing and are encouraged to bring candle-lit lanterns.

accessible.

For more information, call

781-631-4951 or visit standrewsmhd. org/cloistergallery.html.

Art show at the Cloister Gallery Feb. 1 through March 22

The Cloister Gallery at St. Andrew’s Church will host a show featuring Dale Partis Greene, opening with a reception on Sunday, Feb. 1, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Dale is a local artist focused on traditional landscapes and abstract impressionism. She says, “I’ve worked in several mediums, always returning to oil because I love its consistency and flexibility.”

St. Andrew’s Church is located at 135 Lafayette St. The gallery hours are Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The gallery is handicapped

Music, dance, art and more Saturday, Feb. 7 and Sunday, Feb. 8 at 3 p.m.

Presented by J2RC Dances, “Rigor & Risk” offers a winter afternoon salon experience featuring music, literature, art and dance in the style of French salons from the 17th and 18th centuries. Audience members will experience arts presentations, share ideas and engage in discussion with artists. The salon explores two challenging parallel

Beginners’ chess for teens and adults Wednesday, Feb. 4, 7-8 p.m.

Teens and adults are invited to learn chess with Glenn Davidson. The class is hands-on and interactive, teaching the fundamentals of chess as a strategy game.

Davison has taught dozens of chess classes to beginners, and his students say that his seminars are interesting and fun for everyone. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/teen-adult-chess.

aspects of the creative process: discipline and labor (rigor).

National Book Award winner Julia Glass will read from a novel in progress and share passages from other works. Pianist Eleanor Ruggiero Gilbert will play Bela Bartok’s demanding “Six Dances in Bulgarian Rhythm” while visual artist Rhonda Miller paints live.

The event is free, with a suggested $25 donation. Location is Walter Jacob Architects, 89 Front St. To register, visit j2rc. org.

SPEED SCARES

Local author thrills with anthology of 100-word horror stories

BY LUCA TEDESCO Marblehead author Jim Nemeth’s love of the horror genre began, just like so many other authors, at an early age.

“I grew up in the ’60s and I became addicted to the classic horror films,” said Nemeth, a native of Chicago. “As I grew older, I pursued the literature behind these films and ‘Dracula’

by Bram Stoker became my alltime favorite novel.”

Inspired by the films and books that held his imagination as a child, Nemeth began writing his own horror stories in the 1990s, winning first prize in a national magazine’s short story contest judged by his idols Robert Bloch and Ray Bradbury in 1993.

What sets Nemeth apart from other horrorists, however, is the speed at which he tells his stories.

Rather than spending hundreds of pages setting up a plot through a novel, Nemeth writes “drabbles,” self-contained stories written in exactly 100 words.

“I have more difficulty writing a long story than I do a drabble,” said Nemeth. “Give me thousands of words to work with and I struggle. It can take months to write a story. There’s just something about being confined to 100 words that I just gravitated to. It came very easily to me.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead author Jim Nemeth’s latest drabble anthology, “Stay at Castle Dracula,” released on Amazon on Jan. 23.

The form takes its name from a game first mentioned in Monty Python’s 1971 “Big Red Book,” in which characters challenge each other to write a novel with the first one to finish being declared the winner.

Another writing challenge in 1816 (to pen a ghost story) spawned the first work of the horror and science fiction genres when Mary Shelly wrote “Frankenstein” at Lake Geneva.

What drew Nemeth to write drabbles was the difficulty of fleshing out an entire story in exactly 100 words. With previous drabbles having been published in anthologies, Nemeth chose to up the ante for his first solo project, “Stay at

COURTESY IMAGE / COVER BY SCOTT JACKSON

“Stay at Castle Dracula” is a collection of 23 “drabbles,” stories written in exactly 100 words; as well as three works of “micro-fiction.”

Castle Dracula,” by attempting to tackle the classic vampire story in a unique way.

“I was intrigued by the challenge because, for one, what can any author bring to the vampire genre nowadays that’s new and unique,” said Nemeth.

“I came up with a comical twist on Count Dracula, that’s the title story, and the story just came

out in 10 minutes.”

The 23 drabbles Nemeth has written for his latest release cover the whole spectrum of the horror genre, including murder mysteries, tales of wicked witches and even end-times prophecies.

“Stay at Castle Dracula” released on Amazon on Jan. 23, but Nemeth is already working

on a longer take on the legend of Marblehead’s screaming woman of Lovis Cove. However, even as he works on bigger stories, he hopes to see drabbles become more mainstream for both readers and writers.

“Years ago, Lays potato chips had a slogan ‘Vetcha can’t eat just one,” said Nemeth.

“Drabbles are just as addicting.”

marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

LIVE TUNES

Me&Thee Music announces upcoming season

BY LEIGH BLANDER Me&Thee Music will continue its Friday night live music tradition Feb. 6 with the hot jazz sounds of Brazil by Teresa Inês and her quartet.

Inês’ music draws from a wide range of Brazilian styles, bridging cultures and genres including acoustic fusion, MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), bossa nova, samba and baião.

Her new group features some of the Boston area’s finest jazz musicians: Fernando Brandão on flutes, Maxim Lubarsky on piano, Fernando Huergo on bass and Steve Langone on drums.

Music begins at 8 p.m.

Me&Thee founder Anthony Silva said he is looking forward to the season’s diverse lineup.

“We are offering a wider variety of musical styles, including Brazilian jazz, samba, bossa nova and MPB as well as blues, Americana, acoustic pop, classic jazz, fire-driven Celtic and swing blues,” Silva told the Current. “We’re bringing a world-class Celtic band, The Tannahill Weavers, in from Scotland for their only Bostonarea appearance and showcasing a winner from the hit TV show ‘The Voice,’ Cara Brindisi, to

Letters From P. 5

and I know for a fact some of these girls on this first team are still playing hockey.

Bud and Lars were life-long best friends; in the 60s, they, along with many others, started the Think Rink Project. They so much wanted Marblehead to have a rink, but, as we all know, even though they managed to raise a fair amount of money, the rink never happened, and the funds were turned over to the recreation and park commission.

So, after Lars passed away, he left the town the money to build the rink of both his and Bud’ss dream. Recently, I sent an email to the Recreation and Parks Commission asking them to reconsider two things.

One: not to move forward with an undersized rink. Fifteen more feet are needed to have a regulation size rink; 200 x 85, which is not that much more space. I believe a non-regulation sized rink would be regretted as it wouldn’t allow for any organized hockey games.

Two: the location for the rink should be moved from the proposed Reynolds Field to Bud Orne Playground.

Reynolds Playground would never have enough parking; it would be a nightmare for the neighborhood and for the recreation and park commission.

Bud Orne Playground has abutting vacant land on West Shore Drive and Evans Road.

When I was a kid, that land was farmed and is not wetlands.

It would make great parking for the rink if built at the abutting Bud Orne Park.

Recently on Facebook, shared by the All Marblehead page, there was a picture of Bud lacing up his figure skates, and the comments from so many had nothing but warm, heartfelt feelings for Bud and his love for skating.

So, let’s all rally together and have the Recreation and Parks Commission hear our voice to do justice to the wonderful gesture made by Lars Anderson and build a regulation-size rink on a site that can support and make these two best friends and fans of skating proud!

Frank Orne Fairview Road

COURTESY PHOTOS

Direct from Scotland, in their only Boston-area appearance, The Tannahill Weavers will bring their powerful Celtic music to the Me&Thee on Friday, March 20.

our stage. It should be a pretty exciting season.”

The season continues Feb. 20 with acclaimed Americana blues raconteur Ray Bonneville and award-winning singer-songwriter Kevin Connolly sharing the stage. Individually, they have released more than 23 albums.

Bonneville has received the International Folk Alliance Song of the Year Award, and Connolly has toured internationally while writing music for numerous

major motion pictures and films.

A special concert is scheduled March 6 with swing-jazz duo Guy Van Duser and Billy Novick celebrating the 50th anniversary of their distinctive finger-style guitar and clarinet collaboration.

The duo has been frequently featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered” and “A Prairie Home Companion,” as well as on numerous film and television soundtracks. Their repertoire ranges from obscure Duke

Why I protest

purpose. Out there, we are not only grieving what has been damaged — we are talking, face to face, about what we want this country to be. There is deep pain in recognizing how far we have fallen short, but there is also deep belief: belief that this country, though always imperfect, is still defined by ideals worth fighting for, and that we are always meant to be working toward a more perfect union.

And I protest because of the work that most people never see. People make signs and bring extra ones for anyone who arrives without one.

People show up in 90-degree heat and in freezing weather.

Organizers arrive early, set up music and speakers and build the kind of welcoming public space that helps strangers become neighbors. They write newsletters, keep people informed and keep everyone steady and connected. That steady, behind-the-scenes labor is not incidental — it is what makes sustained civic action possible.

I protest, too, because of the values my family handed down to me. My father, my Aunt Peg and my uncles who served in World War II taught me — by example, not slogans — that liberty and justice have to apply to everyone, or they are not real.

One of my uncles, Paul, was shot down, imprisoned and forced on a death march as a prisoner of war. Even after what he endured, he never lost his belief in this country’s founding promises: “that all men are created equal,” and that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are not privileges for a few, but rights meant for all.

Not everyone standing there came of age when I did. Some were shaped by different wars, different movements or different turning points entirely. But many of us were raised — directly or indirectly — in the shadow of World War II, by people who believed that democracy required participation, vigilance and sacrifice. That belief still runs deep. It’s what brings people out week after week, in the heat and in the cold, to do the steady, unglamorous work of showing up. I’m proud that this country has always had the capacity to change, even when change was overdue. We are not a perfect nation, but we are a nation built on the idea that the people are

To the editor: I came of age in 1967-1968 in a working-class world shaped by the draft and the Vietnam War. In my community, Vietnam wasn’t a headline — it was a phone call you dreaded and a name you might see in the paper.

And for young women, the consequences of being labeled “fast” were real: reputations, opportunities, futures.

I also remember a time when women had far fewer choices and protections than we do now. I remember “homes for unwed mothers,” and the quiet shame that surrounded them. I remember when women could not open a bank account, apply for a credit card or take out a loan without a husband’s or male relative’s permission. Those limits weren’t theoretical — they shaped real lives, constrained real futures and were enforced by law and custom alike.

I’ve lived long enough to see something important: public pressure can become public policy, and public policy can change real lives. When I was young, I watched civil rights activism force America to confront segregation and discrimination. I watched the women’s movement push open doors in education, work and basic independence. I watched gay rights activists refuse to be shamed into silence and I watched the culture begin to shift. These weren’t abstract arguments in a classroom. They were visible, concrete changes — who could vote, who could rent or buy a home, who could go to school, who could be hired, who could be treated with dignity in public. That’s why the right to protest matters so much to me. The First Amendment isn’t a decoration. It’s a promise that ordinary people have the right to assemble, to speak and to demand redress when the powerful aren’t listening. Protest is what citizens do when polite silence becomes complicity.

So, when you see people out on the street in Marblehead — young people, parents, grandparents, working people, retirees — you’re seeing something deeply American.

You’re seeing neighbors practicing citizenship in public. I also protest because of the people I stand with. My friends and neighbors are the reason these gatherings feel less like anger and more like

Ellington tunes to Gershwin classics and complex Jelly Roll Morton arrangements.

On March 20, direct from Paisley, Scotland, the Me&Thee will present the only Bostonarea appearance of legendary Celtic band The Tannahill Weavers. The group has built an international reputation for its powerful Celtic music, blending traditional melodies with firedriven instrumentals, and has been inducted into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame.

American folk icon Eric Anderson comes to the Me&Thee on Friday, April 10, with Steve Addabbo. Anderson was part of the Greenwich Village folk scene in the 1960s and rose to national prominence with songs such as “Thirsty Boots” and “Violets of Dawn.”

He has written music for the Grateful Dead, Johnny Cash, Linda Ronstadt and Bob Dylan.

From season 22 of “The Voice,” Cara Brindisi will bring her contemporary acoustic music to the Me&Thee on April 17. Both Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani turned their chairs during Brindisi’s performance of Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well.”

Brindisi will feature songs from her debut album, “I Am Home.”

On May 1, swing blues band The Smack Dabs will make its Me&Thee debut, featuring music

by Big Bill Broonzy, Tampa Red and the Harlem Hamfats, among others.

The Me&Thee’s 56th season will close Friday, May 15, with musician and songwriter Lucy Kaplansky, who has just released her 10th album, “The Lucy Story.” The double album includes mostly unreleased tracks and offers a retrospective of her career, which has taken her to major concert halls and small clubs throughout the United States and Europe.

Throughout the season, the Me&Thee will collect donations of nonperishable food items for the Marblehead Food Pantry before each performance.

Tickets are available online only at meandthee.org and in person locally at Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St. Doors open at 7:15 p.m., with community seating.

The Me&Thee is an allvolunteer, nonprofit arts organization sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Church, 28 Mugford St. Freshly baked desserts, coffee, tea, water and mulled cider are served each week.

allowed —and obligated — to speak when something is wrong.

I protest because I love my country enough to insist it do better. I protest because I know history: showing up matters.

And I protest because I want my children and grandchildren to inherit the same rights, dignity and pride I was raised to believe in — and to know those promises are still real.

Sincerely, Mary Chalifour Ocean Avenue

From the very beginning of our nation, presidents of every political stripe have encountered criticism — it comes with the territory. Most have managed to ignore remarks even when face-to-face with peaceful protesters. It would help if the current occupant of the White House could do the same, rather than hurling insults, shouting expletives or offering obscene gestures. People with different points of view are not the enemy. They are our relatives, neighbors, friends and colleagues.

Thoughtful Americans would also appreciate it if our president refrained from referring to women journalists as “stupid” or “piggy.” Name-calling is, at best, unpresidential and, at worst, juvenile and a terrible example for young people. While he clearly does not welcome being challenged or corrected, asking tough questions of the person in the Oval Office is precisely the job of White House correspondents.

Those who consider themselves patriotic should ask that government officials refrain from maligning our allies, challenging foreign heads of state to schoolyard brawls, demeaning courageous veterans from other nations who fought side by side with the brave members of our own military, belittling immigrants or threatening the takeover of sovereign nations.

As a society, we need the truth, not “alternative facts” designed to bolster false narratives. We ask that elected officials refrain from attempts to erase the history, culture, and contributions of people of color.

Our heads hurt from the verbal whiplash, harsh warnings and wild streams of consciousness followed by dog-with-a-bone stubbornness and unexplained retreats.

Finally, as polls clearly indicate the vast majority of Americans believe that deploying masked individuals — armed with lethal weapons, tear gas, rubber bullets and pepper spray, while lacking identification, warrants or adequate training — is the very definition of un-American.

Through his rhetoric, the writer has shown his true colors.

Sadly, I don’t believe they are red, white and blue.

SL Murphy Seaview Avenue

Needed: Public restroom volunteers To the editor: After discussions with Marblehead’s harbormaster and town officials, our small group of local volunteers has been given the green light to its proposal to spearhead needed changes to these facilities. In addition to suggesting ways to improve the attractiveness of the restrooms (better signage, repairing broken/cracked tiles, visual upgrades, etc.), recommending ways to reduce vandalism (motion-sensor lights, external surveillance cameras), our team would provide the allimportant monitoring. We are seeking additions to our team of volunteers. The primary task is the daily periodic checking of the facilities, to replace supplies, report flaws or major plumbing issues. Each volunteer would be assigned one day per week. An increase in volunteers would reduce this to a half day.

Those volunteers not averse to minor clean-ups are especially sought. This year is the 250th anniversary of our Declaration of Independence. Marblehead is expecting an influx of visitors.

These facilities definitely need a facelift. Those interested should please contact Phil Blaisdell at 978-771-4246.

Phil Blaisdell Front Street

‘The very definition of un-American’ To the editor: I am writing in response to a letter featured in last week’s paper, which suggests that Democrats could “get with the program” by turning off the news and adopting the writer’s point of view. In that spirit, I would like to offer a few thoughts of my own.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 13

OBITUARIES

Sally Frick Cockayne Sally Frick Cockayne passed away peacefully surrounded by her adoring family on Amelia Island, Florida, on Sunday, Jan. 4. Sally was born in 1942 and grew up in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She was the cherished daughter of Raymond and Dorothy Frick and attended Springside Chestnut Hill Academy where she developed many friendships that lasted a lifetime. She lived a life rooted in purpose, generosity and kindness. She was married to her beloved husband and soulmate, Robert (Bob) Cockayne, for 53

years, whose career led them to new places where they built friendships and proudly raised their five children. Sally lived her life to the fullest, never far from the water. Together they shared a love of the ocean and raised their children as a sailing family.

Sally’s generosity extended far beyond her family. She was deeply devoted to her communities, supporting charitable causes coast to coast, including the Junior League and providing meals for the homeless. An organizer, leader and friend to all, she embodied that spirit through founding a women’s group in her Amelia Island home known as “JULIET.” Sally’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

Her children will always cherish the words they hear so often: “I loved your mom.” Everyone did! She leaves behind Bruce (Jessica) Jones of Meredith, New Hampshire, Vanessa (Greg) Robisch of Atlanta, Georgia, Kimberly Knoepfel of

Capt. Louis P. Hettinger, 93 Capt. Louis P Hettinger, USN (Ret), of Ashburn, Virginia, age 93 passed away peacefully on Dec. 28, 2025.

Louis was born on Oct. 13, 1932, in Newton, to Paul C. Hettinger and Margaret M. O’Leary Hettinger. He shared a close bond with his brother, Ed, and often delighted family and friends with stories of their boyhood antics.

He grew up in Marblehead, where he was an accomplished athlete and played a variety of sports for the Marblehead Magicians. Football was one of his passions, and was captain of the College of the Holy Cross Crusader team in Worcester.

After graduating, Lou received his commission as an ensign in the United States Navy.

Lou attended flight school and completed his flight training in 1956, beginning a distinguished naval aviation career that reflected his lifelong love of

flying.

Over the course of his service, he flew numerous missions in A3 and A4 aircraft, and achieved more than 600 carrier landings. In 1981 he assumed command of Electronic Warfare Squadron 33 (VAQ33), where he was deeply respected and admired by the men and women who served under his leadership.

He retired from the United States Navy in 1985 after more than three decades of dedicated service, earning many distinguished honors and medals, including the Legion of Merit. Following his retirement, he worked for ITT

Judith ‘Judy’ Chapman Hettinger Judith “Judy” Chapman Hettinger passed away peacefully on Nov. 3, 2025.

Born on Aug. 23, 1933, in Salem, Judy spent her childhood in nearby Marblehead with her loving parents, Harry and Ruth Chapman. She attended Marblehead High School, where she proudly served as head majorette for the school band — one of her fondest memories.

Judith M. Doane, 92 Judith M. Doane, 92, a lifelong Marblehead resident, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, at Salem Hospital.

She was the daughter of the late Mortimer Holden Doane and Elizabeth Mary Green Doane.

For many years, Judy devoted her professional life to teaching, beginning in preschool classrooms and continuing throughout her career. She also loved her work with children

Marblehead, Barton (Ashley) Cockayne of Orlando, Florida, and Robin (Andy) Smith of Marblehead.

She was lovingly known to her 14 grandchildren and one greatgrandson as “LaLa.” A constant source of sunshine, handwritten notes, late night texts and a sideline cheerleader, she never missed what mattered most.

Sally was preceded in death by her parents, her brother (Martin Frick), her grandsons (Alexander and Benjamin Jones), and her nephew (Lance Frick). A memorial service to remember and celebrate Sally’s life will be held on Saturday, March 28 at 11 a.m. at the Amelia Plantation Chapel, 36 Bowman Road, Amelia Island, Florida. To honor

Avionics for several years.

Lou remained athletic throughout his life and loved participating in and watching sports. He always enjoyed playing racquetball, golf, and when he was 70, he ran with his sons in an Army 10-Miler. He was a devoted Washington Commander (formerly Redskins) football fan but truly enjoyed all sports. He especially enjoyed going to games and cheering on/coaching his own kids and then his grandchildren at their sporting events.

Known for his great sense of humor, Lou loved spending time with family and friends reminiscing and telling stories about his Navy adventures. When asked how he is doing, he famously replied, “I’ m turnin’ and burnin’ and strokin’ and smokin’.

Lou was first married to Judith Chapman Hettinger, with whom he raised three children: Debra and her husband Bernie Labuskes; David and his wife Laura; and Robert and his wife Darline.

He was a proud grandfather to Dana Underwood, Brianna Labuskes, Jack and Katie Hettinger, Troy, Megan and Hope Hettinger, along with being a cherished

Sally’s wishes, joyful colors are encouraged. A livestream option will be available atameliachapel. com/.

Her family expresses their appreciation for the care and treatment she received at Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville and Community Hospice, Fernandina Beach. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Foundation, Inc. in honor of Sally’s grandsons (mda. org/ways-to-give) or Tunnel to Towers Foundation to assist first responders and veterans (https:// t2t.org/). To leave a condolence message or share a memory, please visit: nationalcremation. com/obituaries/jacksonville-fl/ sally-cockayne-12692805.

great-grandfather and uncle to his nieces and nephew.

He later married Nancy Anderson, who preceded him in death in 2006.

Lou treasured his role as a husband and stepfather to Kristin Whitaker, Christopher Seanor, Gregory Seanor, Michael Seanor as well as being a part of his step-grandchildren’s lives.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Olga Williams Hettinger, with whom he shared many happy years. Together they enjoyed walking, caring for their home, visits from Olga’s son, Justin Gonzales, close friends and relatives. Over the last several years Lou became a devoted caregiver for his wife.

Hettinger will be remembered for his service to his country, devotion to his family, love of flying and his quick wit, along with the deep admiration he earned throughout his life. He will be missed by all those who loved him.

Celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Feb. 1, at Adams-Green Funeral Home at 2 p.m. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

After graduating, Judy attended a two-year college in Maine. She worked in Boston before marrying her high school sweetheart, Louis Hettinger.

As a devoted military wife, she became the steady heart of the family — managing frequent moves, every three-to-four years, along with managing the household and supporting her husband. Judy maintained a warm and welcoming home, ensuring her children thrived through the demands of military life.

Her first marriage was not permanent. After the separation, Judy met a

wonderful man, Bob Wallace, who loved her from the moment they met. He enriched her life with travels and adventures, and later cared for her with unwavering devotion as her health declined.

Judy’s greatest passion was people — her family, her friends, and her community. She loved gathering others around her table, especially when baking something special to share. Later in life, she brought compassion and strength to her work with Alzheimer’s Association, supporting families facing some of their most challenging moments.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Harry Chapman.

She is survived by her beloved partner, Robert Wallace; her brother, Robert Chapman; and her three children Debra Labuskes ( Bernie Labuskes) David Hettinger (Laura Hettinger) and Robert Hettinger (Darline Hettinger) as well as her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Celebration of life will be held at the Reston Community Center in Reston, Virginia, on Friday Jan. 30, 6-8 p.m.

with special needs — an endeavor that reflected her deep love of children.

Judy also had a lifelong love of music and the theater. In her earlier years, she enjoyed acting and dancing on stage, pursuits that brought her great joy. An avid reader, she also found great pleasure in books and in listening to classical music.

A lover of nature, Judy found beauty in every season. She delighted in the promise of spring, the warmth of summer breezes and the quiet beauty of falling snow. Autumn, with its deep colors and peaceful

stillness, was especially dear to her.

Judy nurtured lasting friendships with coworkers, neighbors and all those fortunate enough to know her. She valued connection deeply and cherished the relationships she built over a lifetime.

A familiar and beloved presence in town, Judy was a daily early morning regular at the Muffin Shop, where she and her friends gathered to catch up on local happenings. She was always quick to share her observations, delivered with her dry wit and sweet, infectious

laugh.

Judy is survived by her nephews, Michael Doane of Aiken, South Carolina, and Eric Doane of Savannah, Georgia, and her niece, Leslie Doane of Falls Church, Virginia.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, Feb. 20, 2 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St., with light refreshments and fellowship to follow.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Judy’s loved ones may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Officials launch series on addiction, recovery

BY LEIGH BLANDER The Marblehead Police Department and the town’s Public Health Department are partnering to launch a sixweek addiction and recovery educational series “in an effort to foster understanding, reduce stigma and strengthen community responses to substance abuse disorders,” according to a Jan. 20 press

release.

“This series is rooted in education and empathy,” said Police Chief Dennis King.

“By increasing awareness and understanding, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction and encourage healthier, more effective responses when individuals or families are struggling.”

Beginning Feb. 3, the series will be held via Zoom on the first

and third Tuesdays of the month from 7 to 8 p.m.

The sessions are open to the public and aim to create a welcoming, judgmentfree space for learning and discussion.

Participants will explore a range of topics, including what addiction looks like and what recovery is; signs and symptoms of substance use disorders; the science of

addiction and recovery; how addiction impacts families and communities; how to respond to someone who may be struggling; and local resources and pathways to help.

The program will be led by Gina Rabbitt, a licensed mental health counselor who works with Marblehead Police, and Michelle Simons, a licensed drug and alcohol counselor.

“Organizers hope the program

will not only educate residents but also strengthen connections across the community, reinforcing Marblehead’s commitment to public health, safety and support for those affected by substance use disorders,” according to the press release.

The program is funded through opioid settlement funds provided by the state.

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14 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

OBITUARIES

Jane R. Cooke, 95 Jane Rupp Cooke (1930-2026) died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Jan. 11 after a brief illness.

Jane spent her younger years in Pennsylvania and her teenage years in Maine, where her father taught forestry and conservation at the University of Maine.

The great outdoors was her element. She worked at an orchard picking apples to save up for a pair of skis and quickly became proficient on the slopes. While on the Middlebury ski team, Jane was helping to prepare the landing hill of the college’s ski jump and met Dartmouth ski jumper and future husband Jim Cooke.

Fast forward a few decades later, Jim and Jane were busy competing in the U.S. Alpine Masters circuit, and Jane was hanging gold, silver and bronze

medals on every door knob of the house.

In addition to her own gatechasing, she trained U.S. alpine officials in the nuts and bolts of running FIS ski races. As a certified technical delegate, Jane officiated World Cup competitions in Scandinavia, Canada and the U.S. Way back in 1954, Jane and Jim were a part of a small mountain climbing expedition that was the first to summit a formidable peak in the Purcell Range by the Bugaboos of British Columbia.

This feat won them the privilege to name the mountain. It must have been chilly up there because they chose to name it Mt. Kelvin, after Lord Kelvin, the Scottish physicist who identified “absolute zero.”

Following this risky venture, the couple headed eastward to Massachusetts to start a family, ultimately settling in Marblehead. They fell in love with the Town Class sailboat and the Corinthian Yacht Club, where they became members.

Later, during the 1980s, when the number of racing Townies was dwindling, Jim and Jane Cooke’s enthusiasm helped resurrect the fleet. Gradually, the appeal of the classic sloop and Bart Snow’s lengthening trawl of Townies at the end of the harbor spurred the comeback of what is once again a robust and competitive fleet.

Jane was a guiding light for her four children and so many others. She fearlessly drove across the country with the kids,

a dog and a tent-trailer… twice!

She opened her house to four Swedish exchange students who have stayed in touch, reminiscing about their pivotal year in Marblehead and sending birthday greetings every year since.

Continuing her tradition of adventure, Jane was an intrepid Girl Scout leader and Cub Scout den mother. She brought her scouts camping, biking, canoeing, and on bus trips to Gettysburg, the Hershey’s chocolate factory, Washington D.C., and New York City.

She was the head sailing instructor for the Hawthorne Girl Scout Council in the 1960s, a tour guide for Yankee Holidays in the ’70s and ’80s when she led bus tours from Boston to Quebec and Montreal, and fall foliage tours around New England.

Jane also put in over 55 years of volunteer work for the American Red Cross. She was passionate about organizing the

Marblehead Red Cross Blood Drive as chairman and was a donor many times herself.

Jane packed a lot into 95 years and will leave a lasting impact on many people in the years to come.

She leaves three sons, Theodore and his wife, Linda; David and his wife, Lynn; and Russell and his wife, Margaret; a daughter, Martha Cooke Somach and her husband, Stephen; and seven grandchildren. “We will miss her!” they said.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jane Cooke’s name can be made to the American Red Cross or to Meals on Wheels America.

A celebration of life is being planned for late spring. Once the date is set, details will be announced on Jane’s obituary page on the Eustis & Cornell website, eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com, where fond memories and expressions of sympathy may also be shared for Jane’s family.

operator to engineer, managing the installation of communication networks in buildings throughout Eastern

Massachusetts.

After her retirement, Louise worked as a lunch aid at the Coffin School for 14 years.

Always giving of herself, Louise was a constant presence at the Council of Aging, setting tables for lunch, arranging flowers and serving meals. In 2005, Louise received the Councils’ Volunteer of the Year award.

Louise was an independent woman of endless talents and took pride in her ability to maintain her house and beautiful gardens. Like nurturing her garden, Louise nurtured her lasting

friendships with coworkers, neighbors and anyone lucky enough to have met her. Louise loved them all and cherished travelling the world with her companions.

Louise was a daily earlymorning regular at the Muffin Shop where she and her partner in crime, Prudy, would revel in catching up on all the doings in town. Louise was always quick to offer her observations with her dry wit which she maintained to the end of her long and fulfilling life.

She will be missed by her surviving family, Jeffrey

Johnston of Marblehead, Gregory Johnston of Beverly and their families.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, Feb. 9, from 4-7 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. Her funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 11 a.m. Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead. Burial will follow at Harbor View Cemetery, Marblehead.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Louise’s family.

H. Louise Parker, 93 H. Louise Parker, 93, a lifelong Marbleheader, passed away peacefully on Monday, Jan. 16, at the Bertram House in Swampscott. She was the daughter of the late William E. Parker and Ellen L. (Toomey) Parker.

Receiving much recognition during her lengthy career with the New England Telephone Company, Nynex and Verizon, Louise rose from switchboard

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PUPPY LOVE

When snowstorm hit, animal rescue went into overdrive

BY KATE THOMSON Here in the Northeast, we’re well-versed in winter storm prep. Streets get salted, parking bans go into effect, there’s a run on milk, bread and Bailey’s. We hunker down and wait it out.

But for animal rescue groups, a major weather event like last weekend’s can wreak havoc.

During the storm, the team at Sweet Paws Rescue in Groveland (MA Rescue License # 0078) was working around the clock to make sure that the 23 puppies and four adults that arrived Friday from West Point, Mississippi, made it safely out of their facility and into warm foster or forever homes before the storm hit.

Scores of volunteers were scheduled to care for the dogs through Tuesday, and the team knew that storm-related disruption to those volunteers reaching the pups could have real consequences. Relocating

this many dogs was a high-touch, enormous act of care.

Two of those puppies landed in my living room in Marblehead.

Meet Butter and Scramble: adorable 3-month-old blonde lab mixes who are fully vetted and ready for their forever homes.

Butter is the darker yellow of the two — confident, spunky, the first to investigate anything new. But the second you pick her up, she melts into your arms like she’s been waiting her whole life to be held. Scramble is her calmer counterpart. She’s mellow (in puppy terms) and observant in the sweetest way.

These sisters, along with their whole litter of 11, who are being fostered throughout the North Shore, are sweet, affectionate and showing all the signs of being wonderful family dogs.

When you rescue a dog, you’re participating in a system that saves lives. Sweet Paws brings animals from high-need areas where shelters are overcrowded

Butter and Scramble are sisters being fostered in Marblehead and looking for a new home.

and resources are limited… and while in the past that has predominantly meant transports from the South, Massachusetts is now seeing record numbers of heartbreaking surrenders and abandons. In many municipalities, funds simply aren’t there to address the growing need.

Butter and Scrambled were rescued after being abandoned

in Mississippi. They’re now in Marblehead, looking for a new home.

Nonprofit groups like Sweet Paws are transparent, responsible and mission driven. The adoption process is straightforward but intentionally thorough. Prospective adopters fill out an online application at sweetpawsrescue.org/adoptioninfo and adoption coordinators

COURTESY PHOTOS

work diligently to set up both the humans and the dogs for long-term success.

I’m heartened by the fact that, despite the fact that so many people are letting their animals down, there are others pouring care and effort into keeping as many safe as possible.

Kate Thomson lives in Marblehead and frequently fosters rescue dogs.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Marblehead Current Wednesday, January 28, 2026 15

Headlight

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community 2026 - 2027 Issue

www.mhsheadlight.com

Performing Arts NYC trip London Perlow and Mary Prindiville, Reporters, Freshmen Over the weekend, the Performing Arts group of Marblehead High School went to the Big Apple! While there, we saw shows, went on backstage tours, and met people involved in the theatre industry. For some context, the Performing Arts group typically goes on one trip per year. Last year it was Ireland, and this year it was New York City. Next year, we’re planning on going to Disney! Many people who attended the trip found it an amazing experience.

We interviewed a few students who attended the trip: “Really, really fun. It was like, amazing. I really enjoyed being able to see all of the new sites and go to all these new places,” says Lilya Gurevich, a freshman who is a part of the orchestra and the chorus. Another freshman, Sofia Celli, said, “My favorite part was The Great Gatsby!”

We left for NYC the morning of Friday, January 16th, and immediately jumped into activities once we arrived. We took a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall, and we even got to meet a Rockette! The same day we also went to dinner at the famous Stardust Diner, where up-and-coming Broadway actors work in between shows. They sang and danced around the tables, creating a magical environment.

The real treat was that evening; a performance of The Great Gatsby on Broadway, starring multiple renowned actors, including Jeremy Jordan and Samanatha Pauly. Many performing arts students even got signatures and pictures from the main cast after the show! Overnight, we stayed at the Sheraton Hotel in Times Square.

January 28, 2025

Photographs of MHS participants in the DECA District VI Awards Ceremony from January 7 - 8

On Saturday, January 17th, the morning was chock full of experiences. First, we went to a meet-and-greet with a few Broadway actresses and musicians. One of the actresses, Krystal Hernandez, played Anne of Cleves in the performance of Six the group saw later that day! The stars sang multiple songs, including pieces from The Little Mermaid and In the Heights. Afterwards, we spent a lot of free time roaming around Times Square, during which it snowed heavily creating a magical scene. Many students explored unique shops and locations. The last thing we did before the bus ride home was, as mentioned previously, watching a performance of Six on Broadway.

This trip was surely an unforgettable experience, with many unexpected encounters and fun moments. Most performing arts students are already looking forward to the next trip, and we’re incredibly thankful to our teachers for organizing these trips!

Headlight Staff 2025 - 2026 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall REPORTERS: Maya Berman, Piper Browning, Jack Buckley, Nathaniel Carper-Young, Madeline Duffy, Teagan Freedman, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, Eve Magen, Mary Prindiville SOCIAL MEDIA: Anna Baughman

FACULTY ADVISOR: Mr. Higgins

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16 Wednesday, January 28, 2026 Marblehead Current

MARBLEHEAD COMMUNITY CHARTER PUBLIC SCHOOL

FREE PUBLIC SCHOOL

Honored as a School of Recognition for outstanding student growth & achievement on the 2025 MCAS

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR GRADES 4 - 8 For more information call 781-631-0777 marbleheadcharter.org

IS YOUR RISING 4TH GRADER CURIOUS BUT A LITTLE UNSURE ABOUT A NEW SCHOOL? We invite students to join us for special classroom visits held on district early release days. Spend time learning, connecting, and getting comfortable in our welcoming, small school environment.

Marblehead Visit January 28th 1-2:45 pm Swampscott/Nahant Visit February 4th 1-2:45 pm

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• $1,900/mo | 1 BD 1 BA 838 Western Ave Unit 2R, Lynn, MA Maggie Slavet - (413) 222-0362

• $2,900/mo | 2 BD 1 BA 1 Mugford St Unit 3, Marblehead, MA Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

• $2,500/mo | 2 BD 1 BA 154 Granite St Unit 2&3, Rockport, MA Linda Clayton - (978) 652-8240

• $3,500/mo | 2 BD 2 BA 1006 Paradise Rd Unit PH Q, Swampscott, MA Mitch Levine - (781) 883-6460

Marblehead: (781) 631-2330 • Salem: (978) 219-0011 Gloucester: (978) 281-8005 • Beverly: (978) 927-9100 www.remaxbeaconma.com

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

• $2,200/mo | 1 BD 1 BA 142 Gove St Unit 3, East Boston, MA Levana Group 978-500-9751