FIRST WAVE
in Paris: Flight delay turns into unexpected adventure for MHS students
BY GREY COLLINS
Last Friday, a group of over
30 Marblehead High School students and chaperones finally flew home across the Atlantic after being “stuck” in Paris for four days due to weather-related flight delays.
As parents and school officials monitored the situation
from Marblehead, students unexpectedly found themselves with extra time to explore the City of Light.
“It was all super fun and such a cool experience getting to see Paris with all of our friends, completely unplanned,” said Jane Rickards, a MHS student who was on the trip.
The students and chaperones
were wrapping up their nine-day trip to Morocco and Spain when the severe weather upended their travel plans. After arriving at a layover in Paris on Feb. 22, exhausted and ready to return home, they learned that heavy snow and winds in New England had canceled their flight home to Boston.
“We had been up since 2
a.m. and were using suitcases and towels to make makeshift beds on the airport floor,” said Rickards, describing the moment when they heard the news.
The students had to wait until Friday to take a flight home, and stayed at a hotel in Paris for four extra nights.
“We were all in so much shock because being stuck in Paris
Bowl brings teens, seniors together for friendly competition
BY LEIGH BLANDER
You may have tuned in to the Olympics or the Super Bowl last month, but for a display of pure sportsmanship, you didn’t have to look any farther than the Marblehead Council on Aging.
On Friday, teenagers and senior citizens faced off in the “Awesome Bowl,” a lighthearted competition that paired Marblehead High School students with local seniors for a morning of games and camaraderie.
“We wanted a name even better
for that long was literally the last thing we expected,” said Rickards. “There were a lot of mixed feelings about the news because people were missing super important events. On the other hand, we were also excited to get an extra few days in a new city.”
LOCAL ECONOMY
As snow piles up, sales slide
Town’s businesses feel the freeze
BY LEIGH BLANDER
More than 60 inches of snow have blanketed Marblehead this winter — more than triple last year’s total — and while the drifts are slowly melting (or being dumped in the harbor), the financial impact on local businesses is still piling up.
From Atlantic Avenue to Pleasant Street and Washington Street, shop owners say weeks of snow-choked sidewalks, narrowed roadways and missing parking spaces have kept customers home. For some, the downturn comes on top of economic uncertainty, tariffs and rising costs.
“This winter has been no joke,” Marblehead Sport Shop owner Jason Grazado wrote in a recent Facebook post.
“As a result, foot traffic for us has been down over 35%.”
The Sport Shop is at 26 Hawkes St., right off Atlantic Avenue.
The slowdown follows what he described as “a soft December, too.”
“There’s a lot of economic uncertainty,” he said. “People who do come in are buying less.”
Tariffs have had a pretty significant impact, Grazado added, noting he’s paying about 10% in tariffs.
Beyond his own shop, Grazado said he worries about his neighbors.
“At Java Sun, you can’t park on their side
CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER
Dick Winter, 96, shows Marblehead High students the finer points of curling at the Awesome Bowl on Friday, Feb. 27, at the Council on Aging.
Teachers, residents discuss schools’ level-funded budget with staff cuts
BY LEIGH BLANDER
About 25 people came out for the School Committee’s public forum on the district’s proposed $49 million fiscal 2027 budget, which includes staffing and other cuts.
The town requested that Superintendent John Robidoux present a level-funded plan.
“This requires a decrease in staffing and services and no funding increase over our current (fiscal 2026) approved budget,” Robidoux explained.
Among the cuts are the equivalent of 9.75 full-time teachers.
“Our ability to enhance teaching and learning, increase academic rigor and provide appropriate support to students and staff is being compromised,” he added.
Teacher warns of students “slipping through cracks”
Sarah Matuza, a nearly 20-year Marblehead teacher, urged the School Committee to reconsider cuts to intervention positions, particularly at the elementary level.
“The level-funded budget is putting us in quite a pickle … I know we have to cut positions, but as a teacher I’d like to think I’m a valuable member of our teaching community here,” she said. “I would argue that every member of our faculty at Vets — and I’m sure that all the other schools — are valuable and nonexpendable. We pack a punch
TOWN MEETING
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The town has released the 40-article warrant (agenda) for Town Meeting that includes controversial zoning changes, capital borrowing, citizens petitions and more.
Town Meeting begins Monday, May 4 at 7 p.m.
3A Multifamily Overlay District
One of the most consequential items is Article 4, which would amend the zoning bylaw and map to create a 3A Multifamily Overlay District in compliance with the state’s MBTA Communities Act.
If approved, the bylaw would allow as-of-right multifamily housing in two subdistricts — Broughton Road and the Tedesco Country Club — through a Planning Board plan approval process. The overlay would establish dimensional standards, parking requirements and detailed architectural and landscaping rules, including clapboard siding, double-hung windows and 9-by-12 pitch gable roofs.
Projects with more than six units would be required to designate at least 10 percent of units as affordable to households earning no more than 80% of area median income.
This is the third year in a row that a 3A proposal will be debated at Town Meeting. In 2024, voters rejected it, 377 in favor, 410 opposed. Last year, voters approved the zoning plan, but residents gathered signatures for a special referendum in July that struck it down again.
Marblehead is currently out of compliance with 3A, meaning the town is not eligible for millions of dollars in state grants.
Accessory Dwelling Units
Article 5 would update the town’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw.
The changes clarify where ADUs are allowed, cap their size at 900 square feet or 50% of the
every day. We really do the best we can. We are all essential.”
Matuza pointed to recent academic data, including the district’s strong performance compared with state averages and student survey results showing meaningful teacher-student connections. She said those gains are supported by targeted interventions — services she fears could be reduced.
“My concern is that students will slip through cracks and that’ll just lay heavy on our shoulders,” Matuza said.
She warned that eliminating positions such as math interventionists could increase special education referrals and potentially drive families to private schools.
Calls for an override
Teacher Samantha Rosato called on the School Committee to pursue a Proposition 2 1/2 override to “fully fund” the school budget, saying town voters should get the chance to decide whether to raise their property taxes to support the schools.
“If not, you are denying this community the opportunity to debate and decide for themselves,” Rosato said. “Our children deserve a school system that is supported, not simply surviving.”
Rosato said Marblehead voters have approved overrides for capital projects (like new school buildings) but pointed out that a general override to support services and staff hasn’t passed
DOLLARS & SENSE
Delayed budget talk set for Wednesday
After the blizzard postponed last week’s meeting, the Select Board was set to hear from Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer Wednesday night, March 4. Kezer will present his balanced budget and scenarios for possible overrides.
At his State of the Town address in January, Kezer projected a $8.6 million deficit for fiscal 2027 requiring more than 50 layoffs.
The town’s Finance Committee will meet with department heads throughout March to review spending plans in detail. In April, the committee will hold public hearings on warrant articles with financial impacts ahead of Town Meeting.
With override discussions intensifying and department budgets under scrutiny, the coming weeks are likely to shape not only next year’s spending plan but the trajectory of Marblehead’s services and staffing for years to come.
principal dwelling (whichever is smaller), prohibit short-term rentals in both the accessory and principal units and require one additional parking space per ADU, unless the property is within a half-mile of certain transit stops.
Detached ADUs and attached units that expand a building’s footprint would require site plan review by the Planning Board but could not be denied, only approved with conditions.
The changes bring Marblehead’s ADU rules into line with state mandates.
School funding and Proposition 2 1/2 votes
Multiple articles focus on school capital and operating needs.
Articles 25, 26 and 27 would authorize borrowing or other funding mechanisms for school building repairs, technology upgrades and general capital needs at the Brown, Glover, Village, Veterans Middle and Marblehead High schools, as well as the old Eveleth School.
Article 28 would provide a supplemental appropriation to the school department’s
fiscal 2027 operating budget, contingent on voter approval of a Proposition 2 1⁄2 override at the ballot.
Article 29 similarly proposes a supplemental appropriation for the town’s general government budget, also contingent on passage of a Proposition 2 1/2 ballot question.
Cryptocurrency ATM ban
Article 33 proposes a new general bylaw prohibiting cryptocurrency automated teller machines within town limits.
The measure cites concerns raised by the Marblehead Police Department about fraud, money laundering and the lack of consumer protections. If adopted, existing cryptocurrency ATMs would have to be removed within 60 days, and violators could face fines of $300 per day, per device.
Government structure and employment
Several articles address town governance and employment terms.
Article 34 would dissolve the Public Works Committee, while Article 35 would amend its
since 2005.
“Buildings don’t educate the children — people do,” she said.
Cindy Tower-Loewen’s children have already graduated from Marblehead schools. She spoke in favor of an override.
“As a parent of kids who are not even in the school system anymore, I would have to pay more taxes. But I value education.”
Taxpayer questions enrollment, ratios
One resident said he closely follows town budgets and questioned whether staffing reductions are appropriate given enrollment trends.
structure and duties. Article 36 makes housekeeping updates to bylaws related to the Department of Public Works.
Citizen petitions include:
Article 37, limiting municipal employment contracts (excluding union contracts) to one calendar year.
Article 38, restoring Select Board terms to one year beginning with the 2027 election.
Article 39, “eliminating, disbanding and de-funding” the Department of Planning and Community Development and all of its offices, positions and associations. Town Meeting established the department in 2024. Among the positions within the department are the director of community development and planning (currently Brendan Callahan), the town planner (currently vacant) and the sustainability coordinator (currently Logan Casey).
Article 31 would expand administrative employee benefits by adding three personal days and accelerating eligibility for a fifth week of vacation.
Mooring fees and harbor matters
Article 32 would increase mooring permit fees in Marblehead waters, raising the per-foot rate in Marblehead Harbor, Little Harbor and Doliber’s Cove from $10 to $12, and adjusting other locations and commercial fishing rates accordingly.
250th
resolution
The final article, Article 40, asks voters to adopt a resolution affirming Marblehead’s commitment to the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in advance of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The resolution references the town’s historic civic role and the display of “The Spirit of ‘76” in Abbot Hall.
visit www. marbleheadCurrent.org/volunteer.
REACT We’re standing by to listen to your ideas. Please drop us a line and let us know what you would like to see in your community newspaper. Send your thoughts to info@marbleheadnews.org.
And
BY KRIS OLSON
Marblehead “Jeopardy!”
enthusiasts may have done a double take during the Feb. 26 Double Jeopardy round when host Ken Jennings read a clue that referenced the town.
The $1,200 clue in the “Geography” category was: “A tombolo is a sandy or pebbly one of these connecting an island to the mainland, like in Marblehead, Massachusetts.”
(We’ll give you a minute to come up with the answer.)
According to the J-Archive, an internet database maintained by “Jeopardy!” super fan Robert Knecht Schmidt, Marblehead has now been mentioned in clues on the show six times, though this was its first mention in over 17
GOOD ENERGY
years.
The J-Archive has transcripts of nearly every episode ever aired, including a list of well over 400,000 clues and the contestants’ responses.
The other Marblehead clues were as follows:
Episode 5621 (Feb. 2, 2009),
“All the Marbles” category
($1,000): “Tourist sites in this Mass. town include Elbridge Gerry’s home & Abbot Hall, which houses the ‘Spirit of ‘76’ painting.”
Episode 5205 (April 6, 2007), “Massachusetts” category (Daily Double, $4,000 wager): “‘The Spirit of ‘76’ hangs in this town whose name comes from the misidentification of granite as another rock.”
Episode 4260 (Feb. 21, 2003),
“Buildings” category ($400): “Built in 1876, Abbot Hall in Marblehead, Mass. is in this style of architecture named for a queen.”
Episode 3722 (Nov. 7, 2000), “Stately Homes” category ($800): “You can visit the mansion of shipping magnate Jeremiah Lee in Marblehead in this state.”
Episode 3150, (April 17, 1998), “The East Coast” category ($100): “The original of this painting seen here hangs in Abbot Hall in Marblehead, Massachusetts.”
There have also been many more Marblehead-centric clues that simply failed to mention
After cycling 25,000 miles globally, MHS grad comes home to power change
BY LEIGH BLANDER
When Josh Buchsbaum walks through the halls of Marblehead High School this week, he won’t just be revisiting his old locker and classrooms.
He’ll be looking at the building through a completely different lens — one shaped by 25,000 miles of solo cycling across five continents and a career devoted to energy efficiency.
Buchsbaum, who graduated from MHS in 2008, now lives in Golden, Colorado. He’s back in town this week to conduct comprehensive energy audits at Marblehead High, Veterans and Village schools. The assessments are part of the town’s broader push to evaluate building performance, identify energy savings and explore electrification and decarbonization opportunities.
The Select Board is expected to vote on a proposed energy reduction plan this week, according to Sustainability Coordinator Logan Casey. The school assessments are funded completely by MassSave.
From product design to pedals
After MHS, Buchsbaum headed to upstate New York to attend Rochester Institute of Technology, earning a degree in mechanical engineering technology.
“I originally wanted to do product design … working with plastics,” he said. After college, he moved to Colorado to work as a mountain bike guide, eventually taking a job as a product engineer to pay off his student loans. But even then, travel was tugging at him.
“I wanted to see the world and shake it out of my system, but balancing world travel and a career is hard,” he said. “That was the right time to break out of my routine, see as much of the world and broaden
my horizons as much as I could. Riding a bike is a great way to experience culture, connect with people and landscapes and get a true sense of traveling and even living as a local without it being centered around tourism.”
So in 2017, he set off alone on what became a three-year, round-theworld bicycle journey.
25,000 miles, five continents
The first year, Buchsbaum rode from California to Argentina, pedaling through Mexico, Central America and South America — including Paraguay and Brazil — before flying from Buenos Aires to South Africa.
From there, he rode nine months across Africa, touching 14 or 15 countries. He traveled from Cape Town to Cairo, passing through Botswana, Namibia and Tanzania along the way.
He continued on to Europe — Turkey, the Balkans and much of Eastern Europe up to Finland — rode through Russia, then down through Central Asia, India and Nepal before returning home on New Year’s 2020.
In total, he logged roughly 25,000 miles on a touring bike, riding highways and remote sandy stretches alike — entirely solo.
The journey changed him.
“Not to sound like some enlightened hippie, but riding my bike all those miles and seeing all the plastic and waste around the world changed my mind about what I wanted to do,” he said.
A pivot toward efficiency
Before his trip, Buchsbaum had worked in construction with a focus on HVAC systems. That foundation proved crucial.
“I wanted to take the foundation of engineering and HVAC that I was familiar with and put it toward something that
wasn’t wasteful,” he said.
Today, Buchsbaum is a certified energy manager and senior energy efficiency engineer with Michaels Energy, where
the town’s name, according to J-Archive.
For example, Elbridge Gerry has been mentioned in 33 clues, including twice in Final Jeopardy. The more recent was in 2021. That clue, “Elbridge Gerry, Charles Pinckney & John Marshall were the diplomats in this 1797 incident that led to a quasi-war with France.” (Answer: The XYZ Affair.)
According to the J-Archive, Marblehead has also produced two Jeopardy! contestants over the years:
Brian O’Rourke, a director of development, who appeared on Sept. 10, 2001, during Season 18. Ethan Rasiel, a consultant originally from Marblehead, who appeared on Nov. 23, 1992, during Season 9.
Got that answer yet?
It’s… “isthmus.”
Oops, sorry.
We mean, “What is ‘isthmus’?”
Marblehead native and MHS grad
Josh Buchsbaum cycled
25,000 miles around the globe.
This picture was taken in Bolivia
COURTESY PHOTO
YELLOW
Opinion
EDITORIAL
Winter put town to the test
“Winter forms our character and brings out our best.” Tom Allen Punxsutawney Phil, everyone’s favorite furry weatherman, predicted on Feb. 2 that there would be six more weeks of winter rather than an early spring. He was right! Nearly 30 inches of snow fell in Marblehead in February alone. Total snowfall this winter has been close to 60 inches, according to some accounts. How does Marblehead handle so much snow? What do we do? Who’s responsible? What does it cost, and where does it all go?
Marblehead is fortunate to have experienced departments and dedicated employees who work collaboratively to address snow emergencies and snow removal:
» The Department of Public Works, including the Highway Department, manages all snow operations, including plowing and snow removal.
The Fire Department handles emergency access and safety checks.
» The Police Department manages traffic, enforces travel bans and ensures safe road conditions.
» The Municipal Light Department oversees power lines and infrastructure safety.
The School Department handles snow clearing across all school properties.
» Recreation and Parks assists with overall operations.
» The Harbormaster Division participates in safety and logistics.
» The Health Department operates the Transfer Station, which serves as a location for snow disposal and vehicle towing.
When it snows, the Highway Department salts the main roads and bus routes first to prevent snow from sticking to the pavement. Then, they plow the main roads, emergency routes and school bus routes to maintain traffic flow and public safety, followed by secondary roads and residential streets. Sidewalks along school routes are cleared after the roads are done. Property owners are responsible for keeping fire hydrants on or adjacent to their property cleared.
More than 70 pieces of equipment were mobilized during last week’s blizzard, including sanders, plows, loaders, dump trucks and sidewalk clearers. The average age of this equipment is 15 years. Some equipment is nearing the end of its useful life, an issue the town will need to address soon.
With the number of snow events this winter, the costs for removal and cleanup now exceed $300,000 — more than triple this fiscal year’s budget. Snow removal is allowed to go over budget with any overage reconciled within the town’s total budget at the end of the fiscal year. Going forward, the snow budget should be based more closely on historical costs.
For years, Marblehead had a seasonal parking ban that kept cars off the streets for the entire winter. The bans are now issued on an as-needed basis. Snow emergencies and parking bans have been declared during each storm this winter to keep roadways clear for the Highway Department. Finding off-street parking under these orders is a challenge. A few municipal spots are available, but they fill up quickly. The town should consider using other areas, such as school parking lots, to help meet this need.
Some residents grumble about the “plow berms” left at the end of their driveways after a plow passes on their street. These berms can be difficult to remove depending on their size and density. A new online app called Snow Patrol connects neighbors and neighborhoods with those who can help with snow, snow banks and berm removal. This is part of what makes Marblehead a resilient town: We all chip in when and where needed.
Finding a place to put the snow once it’s removed from streets and sidewalks is a major challenge for Marblehead. Following a state of emergency declared by the Select Board, the town began dumping snow in the harbor at Riverhead Beach and State Street Landing after the first big storm in late January and has continued doing so after the two February storms. Some residents may object to this practice, but the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection permits it, subject to specific guidelines. Unfortunately, local businesses have been hit hard by the weather. Parking spaces are scarce; alternateside parking is inconvenient; and sidewalks are narrow. Businesses and the town should work together to support one another. We want businesses to thrive even when there is snow around.
We are all very snow-weary at this point, especially those who worked through the storms. We are deeply grateful to town employees who have kept us safe this winter and to the neighbors who have helped one another. Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 8, and spring is less than three weeks away, at least on the calendar. Neither can arrive soon enough. When they do, and the snow melts and temperatures warm, this winter will be a distant memory.
PUBLIC HEALTH
Mental health concerns in CAHM wellness survey
BY BY THE MARBLEHEAD BOARD OF HEALTH
“Social disconnection puts us at increased risk for depression, anxiety and suicide, as well as heightening our risk for stress-related physical ailments …. Its impact on our risk of premature death is on par with smoking 15 cigarettes daily,” said Vivek Murthy, former U.S. surgeon general.
Today’s world is marked by what the former surgeon general has described as a growing “social disconnect.” Marblehead has certainly experienced its share of strain recently – from a teachers strike and a tragic fatal crash to divisive votes and revotes on 3A, and now the looming FY27 financial challenges.
The CAHM (Creating a Healthier Marblehead) survey results focused more closely on individual experiences, which undoubtedly contribute to the personal stress many residents are feeling. When asked to identify the sources and levels of their stress, respondents across age groups named different stressors — yet very few described their lives as low-stress.
The goal of CAHM and the Board of Health is to strengthen these numbers wherever possible, but they provide an encouraging baseline from which to build.
counseling through their own insurance plans. Unlike physical health data — which are widely available through Massachusetts Department of Public Health datasets — mental health data are less granular and less town-specific. As a result, comparisons must often rely on broader regional or state figures.
For example:
» A 2024 Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation report found that approximately 30% of adults in Massachusetts report symptoms of depression and/ or anxiety.
A 2023 Health of Boston report found that 22.4% of Massachusetts adults had been diagnosed with a depressive disorder, up from 18.9% a decade earlier.
The response to the caregiving question was perhaps the most surprising of all 42 survey questions. It deserves to be presented in full:
“Do you now, or have you in the past five years, provided care or assistance to a person who is disabled, frail, struggling with substance use, or living with a physical or mental health condition (for example, a child, spouse, parent, relative or friend)?”
The breadth of this question — spanning aging, disability, mental health and substance use —reflects the many ways caregiving touches modern life. It captures not only formal caregiving roles, but also the quieter, unpaid, often invisible support that so many residents provide every day.
What are the consequences of this level of stress?
One write-in response to the survey’s behavioral health question captured the mood succinctly: “These days, if you aren’t at least a bit depressed or anxious, then you aren’t paying attention to what is happening.”
At the same time, the CAHM survey also identified several very positive characteristics of the Marblehead community that are protective of mental health. More than 40% of residents of all ages report participating in volunteer activities. Nearly 80% say they usually or always receive the emotional support they need. More than 80% report that they can count on someone for practical help — whether that’s a ride, a small loan or assistance with errands.
The goal of CAHM and the Board of Health is to strengthen these numbers wherever possible, but they provide an encouraging baseline from which to build.
Marblehead is fortunate to have meaningful local resources. The Council on Aging offers a robust portfolio of programs for seniors, and the Marblehead Counseling Center remains an outstanding mental health resource for residents of all ages. More recently, the town made the Bloom app available at no cost to residents. The app helps individuals access mental health and behavioral health support, including up to four free counseling sessions, after which users are guided toward in-network, primarycare–based
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Time to collect unpaid debts
To the editor:
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, it is time to recognize unpaid debts due the town of Marblehead for the loans and sacrifices made by its patriotic citizens.
Though there were many, I cite for example the contributions and sacrifices made by Col. Jeremiah
» Persistent anxiety in Boston rose to 27% by 2021. These figures are generally consistent with CAHM responses. At a 30,000-foot level, Marblehead does not appear to be an outlier. County-level data from the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute provide additional context. The metric “Poor Mental Health Days” measures the average number of days in the past month when mental health was reported as “not good.” Essex County reports 5.2 days, compared with 4.9 days statewide and 5.1 days nationally. By this measure, our county experiences slightly more “not good” mental health days than the state or national averages. Nationally, the United Health Foundation and the American Public Health Association publish America’s Health Rankings annually. The 2025 report defines “Frequent Mental Distress” as the percentage of adults who report their mental health was not good for 14 or more days in the past 30 days. Massachusetts ranks fifth nationally at 13.3% overall.
However, gender differences are notable:
» Massachusetts women report frequent mental distress at 23.3% (ranking 17th
» nationally).
Massachusetts men report 11.2% (ranking 7th). Among seniors, both men and women report 7.8% (ranking 16th).
These data suggest that younger women in Massachusetts experience disproportionate mental health strain. In the final CAHM report, we plan to analyze our local survey data by gender to better understand how these trends may be reflected in Marblehead.
But data alone are not enough. The key question is: What can we do to improve the environment in Marblehead moving forward?
The next major step for CAHM will be five, agespecific focus groups conducted in partnership with UMass Boston. These sessions will explore both the underlying causes of stress and potential solutions. Each group will begin with a simple but powerful question:
“If we want to make things better in Marblehead, what must change?”
The Board of Health remains deeply grateful to the 2,553 residents who completed the CAHM Wellness Survey. Your participation has helped us better understand the challenges facing our community — and will guide the work ahead.
Marblehead’s Board of Health includes Chair Dr. Tom Massaro, Dr. Amanda Ritvo and Tom McMahon.
Lee, Azor Orne, Elbridge Gerry and Gen. John Glover.
Colonel Lee, one of the most prominent merchants of the time, was an ardent patriot. He commanded the Marblehead militia, financially supported the efforts to obtain supplies and weapons and was one of the first leaders to lose their life in the cause of American independence.
Along with Orne, Lee narrowly escaped a British raid searching for members of the Committee
of Safety and Supplies. They were forced to flee from their inn in the dead of night and hide in a cornfield. On that frigid April night in 1775, they avoided capture, but Lee died from an ensuing case of pneumonia.
While Orne survived that fateful night, his finances never fully recovered. His personal fortune was lent to the American cause for arms and supplies and never repaid.
Investing together
BY EMILY PROMISE
In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, this month’s column focuses on money conversations in relationships. One of the most common hot-button topics in any partnership is finances. When couples talk about money, the discussion often centers on the everyday: mortgage payments, grocery bills, vacations and perhaps the occasional splurge. But one of the most important and frequently overlooked aspects is the broader financial picture.
Investment decisions, in particular, can quietly become a source of misunderstanding, even in otherwise strong relationships. Not necessarily because couples disagree about money, but because they aren’t discussing it in a structured and intentional way.
Marriage is a partnership in every sense. That partnership should extend beyond budgeting and spending into longterm planning and investing.
Visibility creates confidence
In many households, one spouse naturally takes the lead on financial matters. This division of responsibilities is practical and often works well. However, challenges can arise when responsibility turns into separation, when one partner manages investments and the
Elbridge Gerry, our fifth vice president who served in the Continental Congress and signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation, also made great personal sacrifices in support of our independence.
During the war, Gerry leveraged his family’s merchant business to provide vital supplies to the Continental Army and supported privateering operations against British shipping.
Glover, who assumed the command of the Marblehead militia upon Lee’s death, rarely receives the recognition he deserves for assuring America’s victory.
Glover led his regiment in crucial endeavors that were necessary to avoid defeat and ultimately secured victory including: the evacuation from Long Island, the battle of Pell’s Point and the Delaware crossing. The war would never have been won if it wasn’t for Gen. John Glover.
Unfortunately, today, the Gen. John Glover historic farmhouse is on the brink of destruction and in need of rescue and preservation.
Rather than call in our loans, I’m requesting that our Select Board invite our congressman, Seth Moulton, to appear before them to hear the following proposal:
In light of the sacrifices and unpaid debts due the town and citizens of Marblehead previously mentioned, two federal grants should be applied for, including:
First, a grant for $2 million to preserve Gen. John Glover’s historic residence.
Second, a grant for $6 million to the town of Marblehead Historic Commission for the purpose of building a museum.
A dedicated, public museum is needed to protect the priceless documents and artifacts that are presently vulnerable and inadequately preserved and are scattered throughout the town.
Additionally, I suggest that the congressman request from the Department of the Navy that it name one of the new ships being built the USS Marblehead,
Marriage is a partnership in every sense. That partnership should extend beyond budgeting and spending into long-term planning and investing.`
other feels disconnected from the overall strategy.
Both spouses benefit from understanding the family’s financial landscape: where accounts are held, how assets are invested, and what those investments are designed to accomplish. This isn’t about turning everyone into a market expert. It’s about fostering clarity, confidence and shared awareness.
Life has a way of introducing the unexpected. Illness, career transitions or sudden life events may require either spouse to step into unfamiliar territory. Shared understanding today can prevent significant stress tomorrow. The worst time to learn about your financial picture is during a crisis, such as the passing of a loved one.
Aligning around the “why”
Investments are tools, not goals. The real question is: What are those tools meant to support?
Couples often assume they are aligned,
honoring the town’s claim to “Birthplace of the Navy” and “Birthplace of Marine Aviation.”
Lastly, I suggest that the congressman requests the naming of an additional ship after Marblehead Capt. James Mugford. Mugford was fatally wounded aboard his ship, Franklin, after heroically capturing the British ship Hope and securing a cargo of arms and powder, thus critically advancing the American cause.
Mugford’s last instructions to his crew were, “I am a dead man; but do not give up the vessel; you will be able to beat them off; if not, cut the cable and run the schooner on shore!”
In exchange for this recognition and preservation support, the Orne family will formally forgive all outstanding historical debts due from the country.
Very truly yours, Frank W. Orne Fairview Road
Counseling Center always ready to help
To the editor:
The Marblehead Counseling Center is such a wonderful place to turn to when you need help. We are so lucky to have this place in our community. They believe that “effective counseling promotes growth and self healing in a safe, supportive and judgment free environment.” They have many therapists and a few social workers. The team matches you with the best therapist to help you along the way. You meet each week in a confidential room with your therapist in a judgefree zone. You eventually feel free to talk, cry and help with a solution as the therapist helps you along the way.
The Marblehead Counseling Center works with all ages from children to adults to seniors. The team is here to help with all types of people at a unique stage of their lives. In May of 2025 The Marblehead Counseling Center celebrated 55 years of service to help the community. They have the greatest receptionist, Gina. When you walk into the center you are always greeted by Gina who always has a smile on her face, always willing to help and
retirement, children’s education, a future move or perhaps purchasing a second home. Yet beneath these broad themes, perspectives can differ meaningfully.
One partner may envision retiring early. The other may find fulfillment in working longer, with goals such as purchasing a vacation home or funding 529 plans for grandchildren.
Neither vision is right or wrong. But unspoken differences can create tension.
A productive conversation centers around shared priorities:
» What does financial independence mean for us?
When would we like the option to retire?
» What lifestyle are we building toward?
» What happens if something happens to one of us?
These discussions help ensure that investment decisions support a mutual vision rather than individual assumptions.
Avoiding the delegation disconnect
Delegating financial tasks is sensible. Disengaging completely is not.
When one spouse feels excluded from investment decisions, unexpected outcomes can feel more unsettling, not just financially, but emotionally. Collaboration fosters shared accountability and reduces the potential for frustration or blame during
make you feel like you’re always welcome.
Some days might be harder than others but as soon as you open the center door you feel loved. I have been going to the Marblehead Counseling Center since way back when. When Harry Garrett worked there. He helped so many kids and even took kids into his home. I think of him often. I hated going when I was younger. But now I look forward to it. I found one terrific therapist. It’s a good match. Teri is such a great asset to the community and to the Marblehead Counseling Center. She knows all support networks and she cares for everyone she sees.
Lisa Cohen is amazing. She is the director of operations. She is awesome at her job. She always goes over and beyond to help many. The rest of the therapists are Marie, who has been there when Harry started there, Gregg, Liane, Garry, Haley, Gretchen, Gail, Carol the other receptionist and Sharon, who is in charge of billing . The Marblehead Counseling Center has such a wonderful team. They are there to help. If you want to reach out to them for yourself or a friend or family member they are located at 66 Clifton Ave.
The team will be waiting for you when you are ready. Trust me it’s a wonderful, caring place. We are so fortunate to have this organization in our community. Love you all my other family at The Marblehead Counseling Center.
Whitney
Payne Farrell Court
Moulton is wrong to fight the SAVE ACT
To the editor:
Last month, I asked Seth Moulton’s office what was his rationale for voting against the SAVE ACT. According to the Pew Research Center, 84% of US adults support VOTER ID. Seth is more concerned with political gamesmanship than serving his constituency. Not only is he not serving us by voting for what he was sent to congress to do, but he adds the irony of this statement with his recently proposed safe
challenging periods.
Even simple, periodic conversations can reinforce a sense of partnership.
The value of regular check-ins
Investment planning is not a “set it and forget it” exercise. Nor should it surface only during tax season or an estate planning review.
A quarterly or semiannual financial check-in can provide meaningful benefits:
» Review progress toward goals
» Discuss upcoming decisions
» Revisit allocations
Adjust for life changes These conversations do not need to be lengthy or overly technical. Their purpose is alignment, awareness, and perspective.
I often remind clients that investing is not simply about accumulating wealth. It’s about supporting the life you’re building, security, flexibility, opportunity, and peace of mind.
Ultimately, the most successful financial partnerships are not defined by market performance alone, but by clarity, communication, and trust.
And much like a strong marriage, a thoughtful financial plan is built for the long term.
Emily Promise, CEO and financial advisor at ShorePoint Advisory Group (formerly Blakely Financial), is a Marblehead native and the financial columnist for the Current.
election legislation, “Election security is vitally important.”
His primary objective is to serve us and legislate; not fight the administration. We deserve better than politicians that choose partisanism over effectiveness as a legislator. I dislike Trump and much of what he says and does, and even the things that he does that behoove every one of us, I still usually disapprove of his methodologies in accomplishing those tasks, but Seth’s continuous partisan games and rhetoric serve no one, certainly not the 6th District.
That being stated, the rationale for voting against what large swaths of countries in our world do well (Great Britain, Mexico, Canada, Italy, France, Brazil, Venezuela, Guatemala, Iran, India, etc.) is unsound, as it is not a difficult task to present ID, after all, we do it for almost everything that we need do in our world. If the most populous nation in the world, India, with 1.47 billion people can do it, why can’t we?
In the brief response that I received, the two reasons presented for his voting against SAVE was that obtaining a $130 passport is cost prohibitive and that people whose name has changed will have a difficult time verifying their identification!
A passport is not the only method to prove citizenship; a birth certificate and some other documents work fine; so why does Seth present as if that is the only method?
We have requirements to provide ID for almost all that we do in our world and Seth is telling us that this daily reality of our existence is difficult, and that it creates voter suppression. We need to all realize that this is an obvious ploy for ulterior motives. In 1996, then Rep. Charles Schumer spoke to the House about preventing benefit fraud. “Let’s admit the truth. Everywhere people go they’re asked for a Social Security card. In fact, one way to prove you’re a bona fide person who can have a job is to ask for a driver’s license and a Social Security card.”
So, what has changed for the Democratic party? I think we are perceptive enough to see exactly what is going
on here. Democrats now say that married women will be disenfranchised by having to verify their names, so to vote. My logic tells us that is bunk and that the real disenfranchisement is that I voted for Seth and he refuses to exact the will of his constituency.
Don’t we deserve someone that votes for the will of the people, based on merit, and not on partisanship? Please stop the rancor, the political rhetoric and the divisiveness. How about some real inclusion, not just inclusion for those that think exactly like you do. Where are we headed as a society when our elected representatives foment this?
We need all consider reality: the majority of Americans believe that voter ID and the SAVE Act is sound legislation, yet Moulton decides to not fulfill his responsibility as our representative and instead prioritizes appeasement of his political party and extreme elements of his base for personal gain.
These elected officials think that they can misrepresent the realities of our existence with their lies and we’ll accept it. I believe our state elected officials have the support of the media, our educational system and the majority of our judicial, state and government systems with their singular messaging; it is not unlike communist methodology where control of those systems all preaching the same message, and vilifying all those that seemingly oppose them, begets the control that they desire. We need to tell Seth to stop playing this game; call his office at 978-531-1669 and tell him.
Kevin Maguire Auburndale Road
In response to the ‘Jeopardy!’ question featuring Marblehead
To the editor: Of course, a SECOND tombolo connects Nahant to the mainland, just to the south! Stephen Barrett 4 Claremont Road, Salem
of the street for three weeks,” he said. “That’s tough for them. In front of our store, we lose three of the five street parking spaces in the snow.”
‘It might actually end up closing the store’
For Cassie Sturdivant, owner of Mud Puddle Toys, 1 Pleasant St., the winter downturn has been stark. She estimates sales have dropped 25%.
“I know we are about $15,000 down over last year (for January through March),” she said. “That’s significant. It might actually end up closing the store.”
In addition, she had to pay $20,000 in tariffs last year.
Sturdivant says the lack of parking is a problem year-round in the Old and Historic District.
In the winter, it’s often snow related. In the summer, spaces are sometimes blocked due to construction projects.
“The town doesn’t prioritize our downtown,” she said.
‘More communication’
Sturdivant would like to see a “more open relationship” between local business owners, town leaders and the Department of Public Works.
“I’d love it if there was a conversation among all of us,”
he has worked for three years and has been in the industry for about five and a half. His role includes conducting energy audits and retro-commissioning studies of commercial and industrial buildings, analyzing data, assisting clients with implementation and rebate applications, and helping
she said. “We don’t want to lose our cute downtown.”
‘Not one customer came in’
Gene Arnould, owner of Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St., said business is down about 50% compared to January to March last year.
“Not one customer came in yesterday,” he said.
Arnould said the state of the economy may be playing a role, but the snow is having the biggest impact.
“I’ve never seen it quite this bad in terms of those ‘no parking’ signs up for weeks along Atlantic Avenue, Pleasant Street and Washington Street,” he said.
The town placed the signs due to snow banks along the roads.
“There’s a 10-foot mound of snow in a parking lot around the corner forcing pedestrians into the street,” Arnould said.
“I don’t know how long that’s going to take to melt.”
‘A ghost town’
Amy Connolly, owner of Local Noon, 92 Washington St., said snow can be good for her ski gear sales — but only if customers can park.
“When it snows and there’s no parking, it is a ghost town,” she said.
“As a new shop owner, I’ve been surprised generally if you don’t support the heart of your
organizations move toward more efficient futures.
“Energy conservation is arguably the single greatest and cleanest energy resource we have,” Buchsbaum said.
“The choice to focus in this field is an easy one for me. It allows me to utilize a technical skillset to benefit society in a positive, non-controversial way.
I’m passionate about serving our clients and customers to enable them with the ability and
downtown district, if you’re not providing a welcoming place for people to visit,” Connolly added. “It reflects poorly on the town. At the very least, make some parking spaces.”
Ask about delivery
Erin McCarthy, owner of Creature Comforts, 52B Atlantic Ave., encourages shoppers to ask local retailers about delivery options.
“You can call or email a store, and almost all of us will say, ‘I’ll drop it off at your house,’” she said. “Or we’ll send you a gift
knowledge to work towards an efficient future.”
Coming home
In Marblehead, he’ll be working with the sustainability coordinator on what Casey has described as a comprehensive building assessment — essentially an energy efficiency audit and report designed to identify savings and evaluate pathways toward electrification and decarbonization.
card digitally.” McCarthy understands the frustration levels of people driving around town. The van for her doggie daycare business got stuck in a snowbank near the Charter School last week.
“Whether it’s plows, town vehicles, contractor trucks or delivery trucks, it’s so hard for these bigger vehicles to get down the roads on a good day,” she said. “There aren’t even two lanes anymore.”
McCarthy said she feels bad for the town’s snow removal crews.
“I would not want to be them,”
For Buchsbaum, whose parents now live in Swampscott and who returns to the North Shore once or twice a year, the project carries added meaning.
The classrooms may look the same. The hallways may feel familiar. But this time, he’ll be scanning for air handling units, control systems, insulation performance and lighting loads — searching for ways to make the buildings that shaped him less wasteful and more
she said, laughing. “It’s more snow than we’ve had in a decade, and there’s nowhere for it to go.”
‘Spring is coming’
As winter drags on, business owners say they are holding out hope for spring — and for residents to make a conscious effort to shop local once sidewalks clear and parking returns.
“Spring is coming — we can feel it!” Grazado wrote. “When it does — please show up and help keep Marblehead’s downtown retail locations thriving!”
sustainable.
After circling the globe and witnessing the scale of global consumption firsthand, Buchsbaum’s mission has come full circle: applying hard-earned technical skills to the place where his journey began.
And when the audits are complete, he’ll head back to Colorado — where, outside of work, you can still find him on a bike, though these days the rides are a bit shorter.
Fortunately, the tour company absorbed the extra costs of staying in Paris for the next four days, easing financial concerns for families.
Chaperones immediately got to work organizing
activities and outings around the city to fill the extra time, so the students could experience Paris. “At first everyone thought we were going to be stuck in the hotel, but the teachers did some great planning and they were able to get us to go see some cool sights
around the city, which made it a lot of fun,” said Dylan Whitman, a senior at MHS who was on the trip.
The students toured some of Paris’s most iconic architectural landmarks throughout the week, including the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral. They even explored the vast galleries of art at the Louvre Museum.
“It was so much fun and we ended up being so glad to get stuck,” remarked Cassidy Klock, a student on the trip. “Overall, the experience was so great and we definitely made
the most out of it. It was so nice to have even more time off of school.”
At the Thursday, Feb. 26, School Committee meeting, Superintendent John Robidoux addressed the shift in plans, reassuring parents that student safety was a top priority.
One student also misplaced their passport, but they were issued an emergency passport by the U.S. Embassy on Friday, and everyone flew home that day.
The students missed three days of school this week, but according to Robidoux, all the absences
will be absolved.
Heather Glick’s son, Noah Smerka, was on the trip.
“I am very happy with the way everything was handled — and extremely impressed,” Glick told the Current. “Noah’s never been to Paris. He recognized this as an opportunity. (MHS Vice Principal) Dan Richards and the other chaperones made it positive for them.”
“I think we totally made the best of the situation and it was nice to escape the blizzard and cold weather for a bit,” reflected Rickards on the experience.
COURTESY PHOTO
MHS students enjoyed seeing the sights in Paris, when their trip was extended by a few days due to bad weather. Left to right/top down are: Max Kane, Michael Labossiere, Alex Boehning, Dylan Whitman, Jane Rickards, Lila Moniz, Cassidy Klock, Susanna Cuzner, Emilia Russo, Collette Leighto and Sydney Dasilva.
COURTESY PHOTOS
This winter’s 60-plus
Locals react to President Trump’s attacks on Iran
BY LEIGH BLANDER
More than 40 people gathered along Lafayette Street Saturday afternoon for a weekly prodemocracy standout, many expressing anger and fear over President Donald Trump’s decision to attack Iran.
“I’m horrified,” said Bonnie Grenier, who held a sign reading, “No More Wars.”
“They were at the negotiating table,” Grenier added. “Where is Congress in all of this?”
Angela Ellis echoed that frustration. About 40 people came out for Saturday’s standout, many focused on President Donald Trump’s attacks on Iran.
“I can’t believe what is happening in this country, what Trump is getting away with. Now, he’s waging war without Congressional permission,” she said.
U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, who represents the 6th District, which includes Marblehead, also criticized the president for not
weekly
consulting Congress before the attacks.
“The two basic problems with Bush’s war in Iraq were that it was based on a lie, and there was no plan for what comes next,” he said. “It’s hard to argue both are not true today. WMD (weapons of mass destruction) in Iraq was a lie. ‘Obliterating’ Iran’s nuclear facilities was a lie. The troops have to be wondering today, ‘What lies
/ LEIGH
are we being told now?’ When you’re asked to risk your life for something, the most fundamental thing you want is the truth.”
Moulton continued, “Bluster and bomb is not a strategy. Trump says that he wants a nuclear deal, but the only reason we don’t have one is because he tore it up. Trump’s utter stupidity will get Americans killed, and it’s long past time
for Republicans in Congress to let us follow our Constitutional duty and vote on whether, for the second time in 25 years, we should risk a lot of American lives for a lot of lies.”
Emily DeJoy of the Marblehead Town Republican Committee offered a defense of the president’s authority.
“Regarding criticism that
the president did not seek prior approval from Congress, it is important to remember that under Article II of the Constitution, the president serves as commander in chief of the armed forces,” she said. “In situations requiring swift and decisive action to protect American lives, presidents of both parties have exercised that authority. The United States Congress retains important oversight powers, and we expect appropriate briefings and continued engagement moving forward. However, operational decisions in moments of imminent threat cannot always wait for lengthy debate.”
DeJoy added, “We stand firmly in support of our military personnel and intelligence professionals who carry out these difficult missions with courage and precision. We also urge national leaders on both sides of the aisle to prioritize American security over partisan politics.”
BY DAVE COPELAND / ANDOVER NEWS
ANDOVER, MA
— Dan Koh’s campaign raised $204,680 on the ActBlue fundraising platform in January, a total that exceeded the combined $127,312 raised on ActBlue by the six other Democrats competing in the September primary for Massachusetts’ 6th Congressional District.
The January fundraising surge adds to more than $2 million Koh had already raised through the end of 2025, giving him a commanding financial position as the race enters the election year. January is typically viewed by campaigns as a critical early test of donor support
and organizational strength, particularly in competitive primaries for open congressional seats.
Campaign finance reports filed by ActBlue with the Federal Election Commission show a steep drop-off after Koh. Mariah Lancaster raised $86,109 on ActBlue during the month, while Tram Nguyen raised $21,179.
The remaining candidates — John Beccia, Rick Jakious, Jamie Belsito and Beth Andres-Beck — each raised less than $6,000 on ActBlue in January:
» Dan Koh $204, 680 Mariah Lancaster $86,109
Tram Nguyen $21,179
John Beccia$5,552
$4,976
» Rick Jakious
» Jamie Belsito
$4,932
» Beth Andres-Beck $4,564
The fundraising disparity underscores the uneven footing of the Democratic field as candidates prepare for a September primary that will likely determine the district’s next representative. The Sixth District seat is open following
Rep. Seth Moulton’s decision not to seek reelection as he mounts a U.S. Senate challenge against Sen. Edward Markey.
Candidates are not required to release their complete campaign finance reports, which will give a definitive picture of the fundraising race, until April 15, but ActBlue is required to file monthly in the election year.
Amanda Sands, a consultant working with Lancaster’s campaign, cautioned against using ActBlue’s numbers “as a proxy for a campaign’s total fundraising numbers” because campaigns routinely accept checks and donations through platforms other than ActBlue.
“These figures are not an accurate reflection of a
campaign’s totals for any given month,” Sands said. “There is no reason to believe Dan Koh’s fundraising for January sums to more than the rest of the candidates because there is no public report containing anyone’s fundraising numbers.” Open seats often draw crowded primaries and aggressive early fundraising, as candidates work to build campaign infrastructure, hire staff, and secure endorsements well ahead of voters beginning to focus on the race. Early financial advantages can allow campaigns to expand field operations, invest in voter outreach, and reserve advertising earlier in the cycle.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
All Marblehead Democrats are invited to attend a caucus Saturday, March 7 at 10:30 a.m. to elect 14 delegates and four alternates to the 2026 Massachusetts Democratic Convention.
The caucus will be held at Abbot Public Library, 235
“I would like to know what your actual forecasted student enrollment is going to be for September,” he said, also asking about staff-to-student ratios and general education class sizes. Robidoux said projected enrollment for fall 2026 is about 2,349 students, down from approximately 2,435 earlier this winter, though he noted enrollment fluctuates, and the state uses Oct. 1 numbers for official counts.
Addressing concerns about declining enrollment, Robidoux explained that while enrollment has dropped 23% since October 2016, staff has been reduced by 19%. The district’s overall staff-tostudent ratio is about 11-to-1, in line with state averages. School Committee member Melissa
Pleasant St. Those who wish to attend via Zoom must register in advance at marbleheaddems.org/ programs. Doors open at 10 a.m. for registration, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early. Everyone who arrives by 10:45 a.m. will be admitted. Participants will have an opportunity to meet some of this year’s candidates and campaign surrogates. Coffee will be available, along with candidate nomination papers that require signatures.
Clucas pointed out that figure includes all licensed staff — not just classroom teachers — and does not reflect class size.
Elementary class averages currently sit around 19.7 students, with variation by grade and school.
“It’s not as easy as saying,
‘Hey, there’s 21 kids in that classroom, and there’s two teachers,’” Robidoux said, noting the complexity of co-taught and inclusion models.
What happens next?
The School Committee’s next step is to vote on the superintendent’s budget.
All committee members expressed general support for fully funding schools but acknowledged political and economic realities. The town itself is facing an $8.6 million deficit and may ask for an override.
“I absolutely think we
The state convention will be held May 29-30 at the DCU Center in Worcester. Thousands of Democrats from across Massachusetts are expected to gather to vote for their preferred
candidates. Candidates must receive at least 15% of the vote to appear on the September primary ballot. The candidate who receives a majority of the convention vote earns the party’s endorsement.
All Marblehead Democrats may vote and run for election as delegates or alternates during the caucus. Pre-registered
Calling all new kindergarteners
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Kindergarten registration is open for Marblehead Public Schools. Parents and guardians of children who will be 5 years old before Sept. 1 are encouraged to register for the 2026-27 school year.
Orientations are scheduled at the Brown School on March 12 and Glover School March 18.
MPS offers half-day and full-day options for kindergarten. The fee for full-day kindergarten is $4,120. To learn more, visit marbleheadschools.org or call 781-639-3140.
should give more money to our schools,” Clucas said. “It’s about getting the community to understand the facts of the situation that we’re in. We can’t have misinformation brewing in the community to have an
Democrats must be at least 16 years old by Feb. 19, 2026. Anyone not listed on the party registration rolls must provide proof of Democratic Party registration or register at the caucus.
For more information, contact Renee Ramirez Keaney at reneekeaney@gmail.com or visit massdems.org/caucus.
successful override campaign in 2005 was driven by coordinated outreach from PTOs and community groups.
“One of the reasons that it did pass was because it was a very big concerted effort from community groups and family groups [and] PTOs to really have a big kind of a public service campaign,” she said.
She encouraged residents to begin organizing early if an override is pursued.
Finance Committee Vice Chair Molly Teets described the current budget season as the most challenging she has seen in four years and stressed the importance of collaboration between town and school leaders.
honest conversation.”
Community collaboration cited Anne Marie Jordan, a retired educator and former Marblehead parent, recalled that the last
“The best-run towns have a collaborative relationship between the schools and the town, and they work together,” she said. “Budgeting is really hard.”
COURTESY PHOTO Dan Koh’s January is top fundraiser in race for 6th Congressional District.
COURTESY PHOTO Emily DeJoy is the press secretary for the Marblehead Republican Town Committee.
CURRENT PHOTO
BLANDER People at the
pro-democracy standout in Marblehead were angry and frightened by President Donald Trump’s attacks on Iran.
than Super Bowl, so we came up with Awesome Bowl,” said Pat Bibbo, 91, who helped organize the event with the Students and Seniors Club.
The club — composed of Marblehead High students and Council on Aging members — meets monthly for activities that range from chair volleyball and cornhole to curling and, when the weather cooperates, bocce.
“We really enjoy talking to each other,” said MHS senior Sydney Berman between rounds of chair volleyball. “Seniors and students learn a lot from each other.”
At one station, 96-year-old Dick Winter demonstrated proper curling form, offering pointers to students. Winter graduated from MHS in 1946. English teacher Jenn Billings, who advises the Students and Seniors Club, surprised Winter Friday by bringing his 1946 MHS
CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER
The Students and Seniors Club plays chair volleyball at the Awesome Bowl at the COA on Friday, Feb. 27.
Pat Bibbo organizes the Awesome Bowl at the COA.
Sports
Girls hockey, track, wrestling highlight this week’s MHS sports weekly notebook
BY JOE MCCONNELL
Girls hockey successfully rebuilds with playoff appearance
In Jon Strzempek’s first full year as the Marblehead Magicians girls co-op hockey coach, he was able to see steady progress among the players on the team. They ended up with a 5-13-2 regular season record, before getting shutout by Duxbury, the third seed, 5-0 in a Round of 32 Division 2 state tournament game at The Bog in Kingston on Feb. 27. The Marblehead girls were the 30th seed. A total of 32 teams qualified for the postseason in this division.
“The team may have only won five games, but they have grown a lot together over the last three months,” said Strzempek. “We are a young group with a bright future that continues to grow and compete at a level that exceeds what is expected of them.”
A young team, combined with a staff that has doubled in size to include two new assistant coaches, has been through a renaissance across the board, and then to make the playoffs this year was an added bonus. “It has been a great experience for all of us,” said Strzempek.
There were six seniors on this year’s roster. Strzempek singled them out for the impact that they made on their younger teammates. He said that defenseman Ava Baughn “was a constant presence on the ice, and was always around the puck,” while also mentioning that winger and assistant captain Nola Conley brought that “high energy and clutch (gene) to the team during the big moments of a game.”
Co-captain Lara Dolan, a defenseman, battled back from injury to rejoin the team in the back half of the season, and her “resilience and dedication was uplifting to those around her,” the coach said.
Winger and assistant captain Ella Graham was injured throughout the last two seasons, but “still remained incredibly dedicated to the program to become a borderline assistant coach,” said Strzempek. “She always goes above and beyond in every game for her teammates.”
Senior forward Reece Fabrizio “was another relentless presence on the ice, and was always willing to move around from defense to forward last year for the betterment of the team,” the former boys JV coach said.
Co-captain Paige Waldman rounded out the seniors on the roster. “She was our defensive anchor, who was always on the ice in difficult situations,” said Strzempek. “Off the ice, Paige was like a team mom, always willing to drive the younger girls around, while helping them connect to the team.”
Junior defenseman Emilia Russo was also an assistant captain on the team. Because of the team’s sub-.500 record, Conley was Marblehead’s lone Northeastern Hockey League
all-star. The league consists of teams that are in Northeastern Conference and Cape Ann League communities.
Strzempek said of his all-star:
“she has endless energy, who grew into being a clutch player, while also establishing her leadership style over the past few months. She always seemed to find an extra gear in close games that either won or tied games for us.”
The Marblehead coach added that these seniors will be sorely missed, and he and his staff wish nothing, but the best for them next year, while adding, “We selfishly still wish that we could have them around (in the program) a little bit longer.”
O’Connell, Roszell finish in the Top 12 at the Meet of Champions
During the Meet of Champions, better known as the All-State Meet where all divisions converged into one at The Track at New Balance Allston facility on Feb. 21 to determine a state champion in each event, senior captain Marri O’Connell was the lone Marblehead qualifier in the distance events.
O’Connell qualified in both the mile and two-mile, but elected to focus on the longer run for this meet. Even at a facility like New Balance, the two-mile is still a grueling indoor event, especially coming at the end of a long season, but the Marblehead product had enough left in the tank to run “a strong race,” said coach Nolan Raimo, who went on to say, “she ran fairly consistent splits on each lap between the first mile (5:35) and second mile (5:44), before ending up with a new personal best indoor time
of 11:19.99. In so doing, she also brought the school record down by another 11 seconds from her previous best run that took place at this year’s Division 3 State Championships.”
For the record, O’Connell finished 12th in the Meet of Champions, bettering her seed going into the competition by six spots.
“Last year at this time, Marri wasn’t able to run at all due to an injury, so to see her come all the way back and run close to her best times, when she was a sophomore, is really an encouraging sign that speaks to her perseverance and dedication as an athlete,” said Raimo. “She is now set up for a tremendous senior spring season.”
In other events at the AllStates, Clark Roszell (6-2) finished 12th statewide in the high jump, which is a remarkable feat for a sophomore to do, according to Raimo.
“Clark finished an extraordinary indoor season as the 11th best sophomore high jumper in the nation with a personal best clearance of 6-4, which also ties our school record set by Cam Heafitz back in 2020,” the coach said.
As a freshman, Roszell had a leap of 5-8 during last year’s indoor season, and 6-2 in the spring. “This indoor season was a big step forward for Clark, and he’s now in a position to put together a decorated high school track career,” said Raimo. “Going forward, he’s going to aim for the outdoor school record this spring of 6-6.”
Colin Burke (6-2) finished his indoor season at the All-States with his best jump ever, just missing the Top 12, because he had more attempts than the other competitors.
“Colin’s senior winter track campaign was one for the ages,” said Raimo, “where he improved his leap in the high jump from 5-6 in his junior year to 6-2. He is ranked among the Top 24 high jumpers in the state, and is 32nd in the long jump. He also cracked the 6.90 barrier in the 55-meter dash.”
Raimo went on to say that this was one of the best allaround track seasons that the program has seen in this decade, while adding, “Colin will play a big role in the spring season with his sprinting and jumping talents.”
During the GBTCA (Greater Boston Track and Field Association) Last Chance Championship Meet at the Reggie Lewis Athletic Center in Roxbury, also on Feb. 21, Sarah Munroe was gearing up for one last indoor race this year.
Following her 1,000-meter run in the State Division 3 Championship Meet that got turned into a “sit and kick race (pacing strategy),” according to Raimo, Munroe still wanted to compete, while in postseason form.
“(Munroe) ran a very respectable 5:27.77 mile, besting the field by over 15 seconds. While not a personal best, it was still a great showing, considering she was running alone wire-to-wire in a not very competitive field. It’s a great sign for what’s to come this spring,” said Raimo.
Black & Blue wrestlers O’Brien, Cruikshank advance after medaling in state divisional meet
The Marblehead/Swampscott Black & Blue co-op wrestling team participated in the annual State Division 2 Meet at
Whitman-Hanson High School on Feb. 20 and 21, coming away with some medals to show for their efforts.
Senior captain Liam O’Brien (138-pounds) went 2-0 on the first day of competition, which included a win by pin, followed by a decisive 5-0 verdict in the quarterfinals.
O’Brien returned the next day to wrestle in the state divisional semifinal round against his Milford counterpart, only to come up just short, 7-6.
Bouncing now down to the consolation rounds, O’Brien was dominant to earn a convincing 10-3 decision over his Melrose opponent, before facing off yet again against Connor Buckley of the Salem / Hamilton-Wenham co-op.
“Liam was able to pin Buckley for the first time in over seven matches dating back to last season,” said coach Mike Stamison. “With that win, Liam finished third in the divisional meet. It was his highest finish ever throughout his (scholastic) career. Prior to that, he came in fourth during his sophomore season, and fifth last year. This is also his third time qualifying for All-States.”
Sophomore Anna Cruikshank (165-pounds) joined the team on the second day to take part in the girls state divisional meet. “(Cruikshank) wrestled (competitively) all day long, despite losing her first match that almost went the distance,” said Stamison. “In her second match, she trailed early, 11-0, but we then elected to start her on top in the second period, where she was able to (turn) her opponent from King Philip over with a half-nelson that resulted in a pin.”
That win put Cruikshank in the consolation final, where she was defeated by the Putnam girl that she already wrestled in the first round. “Anna becomes our first girl to ever medal in the states after finishing fourth overall,” said Stamison, “and is now also the (program’s) only girl to reach the All-States.” At the end of the state divisional round, O’Brien improved to 45-5 on the season, while also compiling his 187th career varsity win.
As a team, the Marblehead co-op was 35th out of 48 statewide Division 2 competing schools. In the girls division, they were 26th out of 35 squads.
The Black & Blue crew was nominated by one or more referees this season for the Division 2 Sportsmanship Award, which ended up going to West Springfield.
Stamison would like to thank the O’Brien family – Jim, Julie and Liam’s big brother Connor – and the Cruikshank family for their support at the state divisional meet. He also wants to thank his coaches, while also acknowledging the hard work of the Whitman-Hanson staff that hosted this event. “They did a great job, and the live video feed was a really nice touch, which made for a great spot to hang out between matches,” he said.
Courtesy photo
The Marblehead Black & Blue wrestling coaches pose with sophomore Anna Cruikshank and senior captain Liam O’Donnell after they advanced to the All-State Meet following their top finishes during the Division 2 state divisional meet at Whitman-Hanson High School on Feb. 21. They are, from left, assistant coach Jeff Hinshaw, Cruikshank, head coach Mike Stamison, O’Brien and assistant coach Eli Smith.
Marblehead’s hockey family opens up on Team USA’s golden moment
BY JOE MCCONNELL
On Sunday, Feb. 22, the United States Olympic men’s hockey team defeated its Canadian counterparts, 2-1 to take home the gold medal for only the third time in Olympic history. Ironically enough, it was exactly 46 years to the day that Team USA enjoyed the thrill of its last Olympic victory before this year, of course. That squad was comprised of college athletes, who shocked the world after beating the Soviet Union — everybody’s pick to win it all — in the semifinals, before taking down Finland in the 1980 gold medal game at Lake Placid, New York.
The Marblehead High boys hockey team had the opportunity to play two games there against its Northeastern Conference rival Winthrop in early December to begin a new season. They will never forget playing on that historic sheet of ice in the Herb Brooks Arena, named after the legendary coach of that 1980 squad.
First-year Headers coach Brendan Locke was 10-yearsold in 1980, but he still vividly remembers the details of that historic sports event as if it was yesterday. But he also admires the talents of today’s hockey players.
“The skill level in (hockey) right now is incredible, both at the Olympic and professional levels,” said Locke. “The playmaking by all the Olympic teams throughout those two weeks was over the top, and it was just so much fun to watch.”
These Olympics definitely brought the Marblehead coach
A quick update from the court
back to his childhood days.
“Watching these games was like being a 10-year-old kid once again, when I sat at home watching the gold medal game with my mother, father, two brothers and sister, and to have it now come full-circle 46 years later to watch this team win gold with my own family — my wife, Christine, and our two sons, Brendan and Christopher, who are both former Marblehead High School hockey players — these are definitely more memories for me that will last a lifetime,” Locke said.
Locke is thankful that he was able to share the whole Lake Placid experience with his Hockey Headers in December.
“It just made it all feel so surreal, and it gave you chills just to be
BY JOE MCCONNELL
The Division 2 state tournament opened up for both MHS boys and girls basketball teams last week.
there. It was so inspirational that it makes you proud to be an American,” he said.
Ryan Angilly, one of Locke’s senior players, won’t forget that game-winning goal that clinched the gold. “When Jack Hughes scored the game-winner, I was in pure shock,” said Angilly. “I immediately thought about our season, and how it began in Lake Placid, where the 1980 team won gold.”
MHS co-captain E.J. Wyman, Ryan’s classmate and teammate, also won’t forget the game that got started locally early Sunday morning. “It was a surreal game to watch,” Wyman said. “It’s crazy to think that the last time Team USA won gold was in 1980 at Lake Placid, which is where we started our
Details of these games, plus a recap of each team’s seasons, will be in next week’s Current. Coach Mike Giardi’s boys team took on host Doherty Memorial of
season this year.”
Hayden Gallo, who shared the captain’s role with Wyman this year, offered his thoughts on the win over Canada.
“It was awesome to watch Team USA win in real time,” Gallo said. “It was just a remarkable moment in hockey history, and one that I will always cherish.”
Former MHS hockey star
Jake Kulevich, who led the Headers to the program’s first state championship in 2011, also chimed in on the golden moment.
Kulevich, who went on to star at Colgate University, before turning pro in the Edmonton Oilers organization, opined that the gold medal game was one of the best that he ever saw. “It
Worcester, where the Highlanders ended up winning the high scoring Round of 32 game, 83-70 on Feb. 27. Coach Paul Moran’s girls squad had to go on the road
was just an incredible matchup,” he said. “The whole tournament was outstanding, and it was so good for the game of hockey on both the men’s and women’s side.”
Kulevich had a personal interest in these games, because he had skated with many of the players on these different teams over the years. “I’m sure that despite the result they’re all grateful to have been a part of such a special tournament.”
Denmark captain Pat Russell was actually one of Kulevich’s teammates, when he played for the American Hockey League’s Bakersfield Condors in California. Jake also spent time in various training camps with Canada’s Connor McDavid and Germany’s Leon Draisaitl during his time in the Oilers organization. “All of them are incredible competitors and winners,” the former Header said.
Kulevich currently works for a technology company, and is an assistant hockey coach at Dexter Southfield, a Brookline prep school. The hockey team just finished on top in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council with a 19-1-5 regular season record, and is scheduled to take on Avon Old Farms in the first round of the Elite 8 tournament, starting on March 4.
Jake’s cousin and MHS senior hockey player J.J. Downey said that seeing Team USA win gold “was just incredible,” while adding, “it showed what representing your country and playing for something bigger than yourself really means.”
for a preliminary round game that featured similar heartbreaking results. They lost to Notre Dame Academy of Hingham in overtime, 50-44.
Town administrator Kezer takes
against Boston Bruins alumni
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Thatcher Kezer was walking a little gingerly through Abbot Hall Wednesday morning — the unmistakable gait of a hockey goalie who had left it all on the ice.
Three days earlier, Marblehead’s town administrator, who is 65, had suited up in net for Salem State University’s alumni-and-friends team in a special exhibition game against the Boston Bruins alumni at Rockett Arena in Salem. The Sunday, Feb. 22 game raised money for Salem State, where Kezer is an alumnus and trustee.
‘A few more ice packs’ Kezer plays hockey two to four times a week. Among his teams is the Massachusetts National Guard Red Legs, which competes annually in the Armed Services Hockey Tournament in Las Vegas and travels for other tournaments around the country. He also skates with additional teams throughout the year. Most of his Salem State teammates were decades younger.
“Other than one other player who may have been around 60, most of the guys were in their
late 20s and early 30s,” Kezer said. “So, I had a few decades on them — and probably a few more ice packs afterward.”
A one-timer — and closed eyes The Bruins alumni roster
featured familiar names, including forwards Peter Douris and Ken Linseman and defensemen Andrew Alberts and Frank Simonetti. For Kezer, one moment stood out. “Stopping a one-timer from
But when you’re facing former NHL players, the speed and shot quality elevate things immediately. The pace was faster than my weekly skates, and the shots were heavier and more precise than what I normally see. I felt every second of the 25 minutes I was out there.”
Playing through pain Kezer had been managing a hip injury for six weeks leading up to the game — far from ideal for a goalie. He credited the Salem State athletic trainer for helping loosen it up before the puck dropped.
“I worked hard to get ready and did everything I could to be able to play,” he said. “I left it all on the ice. I’m a little sore now, but it was completely worth it.”
If invited back next year, would he play?
“I would absolutely welcome the opportunity,” he said.
Ken Hodge right in front of the net was certainly a highlight,” he said. “On the ice he asked me, ‘How the hell did you stop that shot?’ I told him, jokingly, that I had no idea because my eyes were closed.”
Asked about the intensity of the game, Kezer told the Current, “This was a charity game, so the spirit is different — it’s about community and fundraising.
For Kezer, who spends his days navigating municipal budgets and meetings, Sunday’s challenge was refreshingly straightforward: stop the puck.
“It was truly an honor to represent Salem State, compete against the Bruins alumni and participate in a meaningful fundraiser,” he said.
The final score? The Bruins beat Salem State, 7-5.
FILE PHOTO
The Marblehead High boys hockey team poses for a photo at a Lake Placid, New York hotel prior to playing
two games against rival Winthrop in early December to begin a new season at the Herb Brooks Arena, where Team USA captured the gold medal during the 1980 Winter Olympics.
COURTESY PHOTO
Marblehead Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer skates to the net in a game that pitted Salem State University alumni against Boston Bruins alumni.
COURTESY PHOTO / LILLIANA NUNEZ Members of the Bruins alumni
on Feb. 22.
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
Little Explorers
Sunday, March 8, 10-11:30 a.m.
Jim Trick Live
Saturday, March 7, 7 p.m.
Catch Jim Trick performing at MacRae’s Sustainable Goods, 108 Washington St. Info at macraes-goods.com/ pages/event.
Epstein Hillel School, 6 Community Road, is hosting its latest Little Explorers playgroup with the theme, “Let’s go camping!” Children ages 2-5 years (and siblings) are welcome to enjoy arts and crafts, sensory play, stories and snacks. This is a free event. RSVP if you can to rkaren@epsteinhillel.org.
WinterFest
Saturday, March 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Abbot Library’s WinterFest is finally here! There’s the Imagination Playground for kids under 5, seasonal crafts, book swaps, STEAM programs and cozy puzzles by the fireplace. Details at abbotlibrary.org.
Shipwrecks of Salem Sound
Wednesday, March 11, 7-8 p.m.
Discover the North Shore’s maritime mysteries with author Ray Bates at Marblehead Yacht Club, 4 Cliff St. Bates will talk about why the North Shore is such a common spot for shipwrecks. Free and open to all.
Celebrate the life of newsman Ed Bell
Thursday, March 5, 6 p.m.
Come to the Boston Yacht Club to honor renowned journalist and Marblehead volunteer Ed Bell, who died last year. Co-hosted by TV journalist Susan Wornick and Bell’s daughter Andrea Bell Bergeron, the night will include local awards, a tribute video, and live and silent auctions. For more information and tickets, visit MarbleheadCurrent.org.
Festival Logo Auction
Starts Friday, March 6, 5-7 p.m.
Score vintage Marblehead Festival of Arts logos dating back decades. The logos are from a collection of Dr. Edward Robinson of Marblehead. Robinson was an avid fan of the Festival.
The Robinson family has also donated seven sculptures by Beverly Benson Seamans, an esteemed Marblehead sculptor. Friday night is the kick-off party at Abbot Hall. All items will be auctioned online. Learn more at marbleheadfestival.org.
Health & Wellness Fair brings community together
BY ALEXA KROITZSH
On Feb. 28, hundreds of people of all ages chatted and mingled at the Marblehead Community Center during the Board of Health’s second annual Health & Wellness Fair.
Dozens of businesses and medical practitioners hosted tables where residents could learn about Marblehead’s healthrelated offerings.
Presenters included Pilates and jiu-jitsu instructors, chiropractors, foot care specialists, local gyms and other wellness providers.
“People don’t realize how many options are at their fingertips,” Board of Health member and event organizer Tom McMahon said. With the new year underway and many residents hoping to fulfill their New Year’s resolutions, McMahon said he hoped the event would connect
Marblehead residents with health resources that match their particular needs.
“What’s wonderful about this town is we have so many fitness and wellness resources who are very collaborative,” said Kim Crowley, owner of Lighthouse Fitness, who helped coordinate the event.
Event attendee Carol Roby said she was “delighted” that Marblehead hosted the fair.
“It’s so important at our age to have resources for our age group to stay healthy,” she added.
At the far corner of the event space, Cheryl Wall worked on patient Sarah Bates’ feet.
Wall, who has more than two decades of experience as a geriatric nurse, runs a mobile foot care practice called Foot Wise. The practice began four years ago when one of her friends called her after a foot
injury. Wall went to her friend’s house and provided first aid and a pedicure. Her friends told others, and soon Wall was in high demand.
“She’s amazing. She’s like a plastic surgeon,” Marblehead resident Marie Prendergast said about Wall.
A common sentiment at the fair was the sense of community these health practices have created. Marblehead resident
Marc Arbesman hosted First Colony Jiu Jitsu’s table at the fair. He has been practicing at First Colony for three years and said the gym is like a family. “A lot of families move to this community and tend to draw inwards. This helps us expand outwards and meet so many pillars of the community… I feel more connected to Marblehead because of it,” Arbesman said.
Tuesday, Feb. 10
» Alarms: 0
» Building/property checks: 5
» Abandoned 911 calls: 0
» Vehicle stops, citations: 0
» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 2
5:33 a.m. An officer went to Powder House Court to investigate a report of screaming. A woman told him that her neighbor keeps her awake all night due to banging and slamming on the other side of the wall. The woman explained that she had been yelling because she was very angry about being woken up by her neighbor again. The woman added that she had spoken to the Marblehead Housing Authority multiple times, but nothing had been fixed. The officer advised her to speak with the Housing Authority again. He then went next door and spoke with the neighbor, who explained that the issues between the two women had been constant since she moved in three years ago. The
second woman stated that she is always hearing her neighbor yelling on the other side of the wall. She, too, had spoken with the Marblehead Housing Authority regarding the issue and had a meeting scheduled with staff the following day.
9:30 a.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a woman who had received mail from American Express claiming she had opened a new credit card. She had contacted the company and advised them she did not open any new cards and requested the account be closed.
The woman said the individual who opened the account had used her Social Security number and her name. The woman said that no charges had been made to the new account. The officer advised her to monitor her other accounts.
9:33 a.m. An officer investigated a report of larceny, forgery or fraud on Washington Street.
10:40 a.m. An officer
investigated a general complaint on Front Street.
11 a.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Pleasant Street.
3:08 p.m. A disabled vehicle was reported on Baldwin Road.
6:55 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Creesy Street.
7:29 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Front Street and filed a report.
Wednesday, Feb. 11
» Alarms: 1
» Building/property checks: 6
» Abandoned 911 calls: 2
» Vehicle stops, citations: 0
» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0
4:20 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Orne Street to investigate a report of a private plowing company pushing snow back on the street.
The officer followed the plow truck in his cruiser for several minutes and then approached the driver after he pulled over on Jersey Street by West Shore
Drive. The driver apologized for not realizing sooner that the officer wanted to speak with him and explained that he was on his way to Sunset Road to do snow removal at another house. The officer explained that he would need to return to Orne Street and remove all the snow that had been left on the road. The driver said he understood and once again apologized.
7:42 a.m. Services were rendered after a general complaint on Atlantic Avenue.
8:46 a.m. A vehicle crash was reported on Mugford Street.
10:01 a.m. An officer rendered services after a general complaint on Higgins and Mohawk roads.
10:10 a.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Jane and Carol roads and filed a report.
11:03 a.m. Assistance was rendered to a citizen on Arrowhead Road.
12:05 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Pond Street to
investigate a snow plowing complaint. A resident showed him a security camera video on her phone from the front of her residence, which showed a white truck plow a snowbank from across the street onto the sidewalk and driveway skirt in front of her house, blocking the front entrance of her home, which had already been cleared. While the woman was outside clearing the mess, a neighbor approached her and told her that he had witnessed the incident and recognized whose truck it was. The woman said that she did not know any reason why the man would have pushed snow onto her property. The officer went to the man’s home to try to speak with him, but he was not home.
12:37 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Intrepid Circle and filed a report.
2:23 p.m. An officer
CURRENT PHOTOS / ALEKA KROITZSH
Lighthouse Fitness owner Kim Crowley, left, chats with Michele Rubin and Carrol Roby at the Health & Wellness Fair.
Cheryl Wall, owner of Foot Wise medical foot care services, works on resident Sarah Bates.
Local journalist shares his new documentary about October 7 attacks
BY LUCA TEDESCO
Members of the Jewish community of the north shore met at Temple Emanu-El in Marblehead for an emotional preview screening of “Hostage,” a film produced and directed by journalist Steven A. Rosenberg of Swampscott and filmmaker Mark Steele of Salem documenting a series of interviews with released Israeli hostages taken during the October 7 attacks conducted by Hamas in 2023.
“As a journalist, you know, you always want to get a story that no one else has really got or documented,” said Rosenberg. “The released hostages are the most unreported story.”
During his fourth trip to Israel since the 2023 attacks, Rosenberg met with four of the 252 hostages taken by Hamas: Keith and Aviva Siegel, YosefChaim Ohana and Elkana Bohbot. Rosenberg has written extensively about the hostages and previously interviewed survivors of the Nova music festival massacre.
“Steve [Rosenberg] and I have worked together for years on various projects,” said Mark Steele, the co-creator and editor of “Hostage.”
“More recently, we worked on a similar project to this which led into this project… [Rosenberg] went to Tel Aviv and interviewed these four people who were actually hostages, some spent up to two years as a hostage.”
Rosenberg, the editor and publisher of The Jewish Journal of Greater Boston, was inspired to film his interviews with the four released hostages by historical documentation of the Holocaust by Supreme Allied Commander, Dwight D. Eisenhower.
“When General Eisenhower
believe him,” said Rosenberg. “I was thinking about that during the process. I decided to film this also. It’s historical. It’s very important to document what happened.”
In creating the film, Rosenberg hopes to share the stories of the survivors of the October 7 attack with the world, giving new insight to global audiences on the challenges faced by the hostages.
Keith Seigel, who was held in Gaza for 484 days, said during his interview with Rosenberg: “I can testify. I know the truth. I know what I experienced. I know the facts of what I experienced and this is what I talk about. It’s not something that I heard from somebody or read somewhere.”
“I think its important that people see and hear other
humans who have gone through torture, starvation, psychological warfare, sexual assault, you name it,” said Rosenberg. “I think people should understand what Israel was fighting about and for: its people. They wanted their people back and now they have their people back.
Rosenberg continued: “I think we all can learn about what it takes to survive. For these people it was all about hope, keeping hope alive, and connecting with love. Love for their family. Love for their friends. Love for their country. We can learn a lot from that.”
“Hostage” premieres Wednesday, March 5, at Warwick Cinemas in Marblehead. The film will be screened twice, first at 4:30 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m.
visited concentration camps in Europe, he decided to film what happened there because he had a feeling that people would not
“Hostage” documents the stories of four Israeli citizens taken captive by Hamas during the October
Andrew J. Syska, 97
Andrew J. Syska, 97, passed away peacefully at his home in Ft. Myers, Florida, on Feb. 21. He shared 72 devoted years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jean (Horsfield) Syska. Andrew was born in Zgierz, Poland, to the late Czeslaw and Janina Syska. At the age of 12, his father woke him in the middle of the night to tell him that Poland “was no more.” Soon after, Russian soldiers forced Andrew and his family onto a crowded boxcar bound for Russia. They were sent to a work camp in Siberia — an experience that could easily have marked the end of a young boy’s life. Instead, it marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Through resilience, determination and a measure of providence, Andrew was released
Russell Veale, 92
Russell Veale of Manchester, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 25 at the age of 92, surrounded by family and the loving staff at River Woods Manchester. Russ was born March 26, 1933, in Marblehead to Granville and Annabel (Hart) Veale. He grew up with his sister, Shirley, and was a three-sport star athlete at Marblehead High School in football, hockey and baseball, captaining the hockey team in 1951. He was a two two-sport college athlete (football and lacrosse) at Dean Jr. College, earning an associate’s degree in business administration in 1953. He spent the next two years in the Army during the Korean war. After being honorably discharged, he began a 30-year career at the Bank of Boston and then spent 10 years working
Dr. Richard E. Yukins, 91 years
We write to announce the peaceful death of Dr. Richard E. Yukins at 91 years old.
Born in Brockton, “Dick” went to Harvard College, New York University and Stanford University to become a practitioner and teacher in
investigated a general complaint on Prospect Court and filed a report.
2:50 p.m. A complaint was made about a moving vehicle on Widger Road.
5:55 p.m. An officer responded to the report of a vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and filed a report.
Thursday, Feb. 12
» Alarms: 2
» Building/property checks: 11
» Abandoned 911 calls: 1
» Vehicle stops, citations: 1
» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0
11:02 a.m. The police department’s mental health counselor provided assistance on Pleasant Street.
» 1:19 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Atlantic Avenue to take a report about a concerning note left on the windshield of a vehicle of a Fresca Pizza employee. The note read, “If you park here all day and block the walkway, you may rec flat tires.”
The employee had a dashcam on
from the camp and eventually enrolled in a Cadet School in Palestine through the British Army Education Corps. There he received textbooks, a uniform and the opportunity to rebuild his future. He later served as a member of the British Army during World War II. During this time, he learned English and began corresponding with a pen pal in England named Jean Horsfield. That pen pal would become the love of his
for Continental Airlines before retiring in 1996. He met Eleanor, his wife of 66 years, in 1956 during an Old North Church ski trip to Cranmore Mountain in North Conway, New Hampshire. They formed a love for each other and the mountains, taking regular trips on the ski train to North Conway where they skied regularly with the famed Austrian instructors Hannes Schneider, Franz Koessler and
his vehicle, which captured the person who had left the note: an older man who appeared to be in his late 70s or early 80s, possibly a resident who lives on the street. The officer advised the employee that he would try to identify the man and have a conversation with him, but he was not immediately able to Identify the person.
2:35 p.m. An officer investigated the report of a vehicle crash on Maple Street and filed a report.
4:51 p.m. An officer returned to Atlantic Avenue to investigate yet another note that had been left for an employee of Fresca Pizza, this time complaining that the employee had blocked a shoveled path with his car. The owner of the pizza shop said that the car had been parked legally. The officer was able to speak with both the employee and the person irked about the parking and resolve the situation by suggesting minor changes to the parking arrangement.
7 p.m. Officers investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Humphrey Street. Friday, Feb. 13
life. Andrew moved to England, completed his education in engineering and married Jean. In 1957, the pair emigrated to the United States with their growing family. Their first daughter, Anusia, was born in England, and their son, Richard, nearly made his arrival aboard the Queen Mary as they passed through Ellis Island. They first settled in Meadville, Pennsylvania, and in 1963 made their permanent home in Marblehead, where they raised six children.
For more than 30 years, Marblehead was the center of family life. Andrew built a distinguished career as a thermodynamic engineer, holding multiple U.S. patents and teaching high-temperature engineering for a time at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Yet his professional accomplishments, significant as they were, never eclipsed his devotion to family.
Otto Tschol.
They were married in 1959 and raised their family in Marblehead. Russ was highly active in the community as a Freemason, Boy Scout leader and president of the Boosters Club. His passion was sports, and after his playing days, while raising his family, he tirelessly coached football, hockey and baseball for decades. All three of his boys played for his minor league baseball team, the Warriors, which won several town championships. His love for the outdoors and the mountains was passed onto his family. They spent summers at Pine Knoll Campground where they enjoyed hiking many of the peaks in the White Mountains, floating down the Saco River and swimming in Lake Iona.
He was a lifelong fan of all the Boston professional sports teams, especially the Bruins and Red Sox. He was a season ticket holder to the Bruins during the
ophthalmology. With his medical skills and his love of travel, Richard/Dick/ Dad/Papa Dick took care of people’s eyes near and far: from Lynn to St. Lucia to Botswana to Samoa. Amidst these adventures, he raised kids, admired his grandkids and great-grandkid, created wonderful watercolor paintings and pursued his love of the outdoors on mountains and sea.
In his later years, he excelled at boating in a sometimes
» Alarms: 1
» Building/property checks: 3
» Abandoned 911 calls: 1
» Vehicle stops, citations: 0
» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0
10:28 a.m. An officer spoke over the phone with a woman who had fallen for a text-message phishing scam earlier in the day.
The woman explained that she had received a text asking her to verify a charge for an Apple iPhone. The text instructed her to call the number provided if she was not the one who had made the purchase. When the woman called the number, the person on the other end gave her the name of “Eric Fisher” and said that he worked for the Social Security Administration. “Eric” told the woman that she had multiple accounts open in several states that were associated with illegal activity. The man then asked the woman for her personal information. She provided the last four digits of her Social Security number and was then transferred to another person in the “Treasury Department.” The woman provided information about her bank accounts with Bank
Andrew’s greatest joy was time spent with those he loved. Winters were filled with skiing in the White Mountains; summers were spent sailing in and around Marblehead aboard Running Free. His love of the sea led Andrew and Jean, in 1993, to sail their Tartan 37 to the Caribbean in retirement.
For five years they explored the British Virgin Islands, Antigua, Guadeloupe, St. Vincent and Grenada; always welcoming children, grandchildren and friends aboard. After returning from their years at sea, Andrew and Jean settled in Ft. Myers.
In his late 70s, Andrew took up tennis and quickly became an avid player. He spoke often and fondly of his “tennis buddies,” whose friendship and encouragement over the years kept him on the court until the remarkable age of 96.
Throughout his life, Andrew remained intellectually curious. He was an avid stamp collector
Orr era and took the family regularly to Red Sox games at Fenway Park. In retirement, Russ and Eleanor moved back to where they met in North Conway and became very active in the Mount Washington Valley community. Their home became the unofficial headquarters in the early years of Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation, and they continued to volunteer for Jen’s Friends for years to come. They also treasured their time working on the Polar Express and for the Chamber of Commerce. Russ kept a deeply instilled work ethic and worked as a lift operator during ski season at Cranmore Mountain until he was 85. He surprised us all when he joined the 70+ Used 2 Bee’s ski team that competed in the Wednesday Meister Racing at Mt. Cranmore, racing with them until he turned 80.
He and Eleanor spent a great deal of time playing golf at Eagle Mountain and travelling during
one-oared dinghy held together with duct tape, and taking long (slow!) walks around his beloved town, Marblehead.
Richard is survived by his children, Christopher (Virginia), Elizabeth, Peter (Christina) and stepson, Carl Lackey; his grandchildren, Margaret, Brendan, Ingrid, Jonas, Maeve, Claire and Calvin; his greatgrandchild, Evelyn; and loving friends.
Visiting hours will be held on Sunday, March 1, 1-3 p.m.
of America, not the account numbers, but the type of accounts. The woman realized it was a scam when the person on the phone began to ask personal questions, such as who lives with her. The officer advised her to report the incident to both Bank of America and the Social Security office to see if they could provide further guidance on how to protect her accounts. He also advised her to check all her accounts as well as her credit reports and to call police to report any fraudulent activity she found. The officer also reviewed the red flags to look for to identify scams. The officer also gave the woman information on how to report identity theft to the FTC. He also advised her to place a freeze on her credit if she had not already done so. 12:19 p.m. An officer spoke with a man who began to be inundated with hundreds of spam emails about three hours after doing some online shopping for “gag” birthday gifts for his wife. One of the emails, which came three days earlier, was from Dell, but he recognized it as spam and ignored it. The next day, he received an
and the author of his memoir, “Recollections,” in which he recorded the extraordinary story of his life. He will be remembered as brilliant and resilient; a man who listened carefully, advised thoughtfully, taught generously and loved deeply. Above all, Andrew was a devoted husband. For the past 13 years, after Jean suffered a traumatic brain injury, he cared for her with unwavering tenderness and commitment. A final and profound expression of the vows he made to her more than seven decades earlier. Andrew is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; their children: Anusia (John), Richard (Kathi), Elzunia (the late Bob), Marek (Elizabeth), Andrew (Stephanie) and Krysia (Bill); 17 grandchildren; and 13 greatgrandchildren. A memorial mass will be held in Ft. Myers. A celebration of Andrew’s life will take place at a later date in Marblehead.
retirement. They regularly visited friends and family in Scotland and Hong Kong. Russell was predeceased by his sister Shirley Davenport and his daughter-in- law Nancy. He is survived by his wife Eleanor, sons Jim, Rob and David, daughters-in-law Lisa and Maria, grandchildren Keith, Nick, Matt, Micheal, Ben, Elizabeth and Annabel, great grandchildren Joseph, Zach, Miriam and Charlie, and several nieces and nephews. He was a genuinely nice human being who was always ready with a joke (most of them corny) and a helping hand. He will be missed dearly. RIP Russ. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation in North Conway, New Hampshire, either at jensfriends.org or by check to Jen’s Friends, PO Box 1842, North Conway, NH 03860. To send a condolence please visit peabodyfuneralhome.com
at Eustis & Cornell, 142 Elm St. His funeral service will be on Monday, March 2, at 10 a.m. at Eustis & Cornell, with burial following at Waterside Cemetery, 294 West Shore Drive.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Doctors Without Borders at give. doctorswithoutborders.org/. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Dr. Yukins’ family.
email from Bread Payments (a loan service for Comenity Capital Bank), advising him of information on his payment account. Once again believing it to be spam, he ignored it. The following day, on Feb. 12, he received an email from Dell stating that his order of a $3,000 Dell Vaporware computer using a Bread Payments line of credit had been shipped. Not having purchased anything from Dell, he contacted Dell via website chat to alert the company the purchase was fraudulent. The customer service representative told him not to worry, and that the order would be canceled. He also contacted Bread Payments to report the fraudulent activity. However, earlier in the day, the man received an email from Dell telling him his order would be arriving sometime during the day. The man once again contacted Dell to report the incident, who in turn contacted U.P.S. and cancelled the order. The officer advised the man to check his credit and consider putting a freeze on it. The officer also provided the man with the website identitytheft.gov to report the incident.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
As Marblehead continues to dig out from one of its snowiest winters in recent memory, the Current turned to local photographer and historian Dan Dixey, who has collected thousands of photographs, negatives, slides and even stereo cards of Marblehead, dating back to the 1860s.
Dixey shared a striking gallery of snowy scenes spanning several decades. Enjoy!
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The Blizzard of ’26 may be over, but Marbleheaders will be digging out for a while. The Current asked readers to share their snow photos, and here’s a quick gallery of some of our favorites. Thanks to everyone who took the time to share.
YELLOW MAGENTA CYAN BLACK
Water Street, Blizzard of ’78
Bessom Street, 1969 Tucker Street, Blizzard of ’78
COURTESY PHOTO / JENNIFER HOUGH
Post-blizzard fun on Pond Street
A sailboat in the ice off Wyman Cove
COURTESY PHOTO / SKYLAR MCCARRISTON
The snowy scene off Pinecliff Drive
COURTESY PHOTO / KIM NESTOR
Beverly Avenue turned into a bobsled course.
COURTESY PHOTO / JANINE G Where did you come from?
Snowman in 1968
Headlight
Grey Collins, Editor-in-Chief, Senior
As the second semester is well underway at MHS, the class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian have been announced.
Joy Meshulum was working in the library during her senior planning block when she got a phone call from an unfamiliar number, and was met with MHS Principal Dr. Carlson’s voice, congratulating her on being named Valedictorian of the class of 2026. Out of the 185 students in the senior class, Joy had the highest cumulative GPA. Joy described her reaction to hearing the incredible news: “I was kind of just in disbelief. I didn’t think that would be me,” said Joy. After three and half years of hard work and piling on difficult AP classes to her schedule and studying hard, her hard work finally came to fruition. Meshulum, who describes herself as a “science person,” hopes to major in evolutionary biology in college and minor in art history, and her favorite subject is AP Biology with Mr. Heenan, her favorite teacher.
“It was just really exciting to have a class I was interested in, and when you have an educator that pushes you, it just gets you learning and you're excited to go to school, I think that's just very valuable.” Meshulum is also a captain on the MHS Golf Team, something that she credits as one of her favorite high school experiences.
“It pushed me out of my comfort zone, going into a team of mostly all boys in a sport I wasn’t well versed in at the beginning of my high school career,” said Joy. “But now leaving it, I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, the connections I’ve made, and the life lessons I’ve learned from athletics.” She also leads Team Harmony, Latin Honor Society, and will be a captain of the Tennis Team this spring.
Her advice for others: "No matter what I'm learning, I have the ability to understand it if I put in time and effort, because I'm a person who believes that intelligence is not inherited, it's gained. So I always think that, you know, if you just keep trying, you'll accomplish through your struggles, you'll experience them, but you'll overcome them. Just taking advantage of whatever free time you have at school, then once you get home or to your extracurriculars, you don't have to worry about it so much."
Ian Chemel was announced as the Salutatorian, with the second highest GPA in the class of ‘26. Ian, who has a passion for physics and hopes to study the subject in college, is also a Swim Team captain, Math Team captain, and plays the piano. His advice for others is, "I'd say, try to learn to love learning, if that makes sense. If you try and just shove yourself into getting good grades for the sake of getting into college or becoming Balo and Saladictori and whatever, you're gonna burn out. I mean, I've seen it happen before, like, junior, senior year, people have been grinding and grinding just to get into college or whatever, and they just stop caring because, you know, they've been trying to do school for the sake of something else rather than trying to actually, you know, enjoy learning, so that would be my advice. The main thing I have learned over the years is to make use of your time at school. I use Magic Block in particular to get a large portion of my homework done, and paying attention in class and asking good questions can save tons of time in studying. For my daily habits, again I try to get as much as possible done in school, and then I’ll usually have 1-3 hours before/after swimming/piano/clubs to get my work done."
His favorite course was AP Computer Science with Mr. Fu last year: "Yeah, coding's always fun, and it's super hands-on. Um, I think it's a good combination of sort of STEM plus hands-on that you don't see in a lot of classes. I did a whole coding project last year that I had so much fun with, so I'm doing that for Senior Project this year."
Concerning this most recent honor, he shares, "It feels good, I'm honestly more excited and nervous about all the colleges I hear back from in the next month, as that is what will really leave a lasting impact on me going forward. It’s still nice though to be recognized, and it will be fun, if a bit nerve-wracking, to give a speech at graduation."
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins
A taste of France in the classroom
Sophie Li, Freshman
Walking into French class, we expected grammar lessons and verb conjugation, but two weeks ago, our class finally made traditional French crepes, something we have been working towards for a while.
Crepes are a thin type of pancake that originated from Brittany, France. Unlike the fluffy, buttermilk pancakes most Americans are used to, crepes are delicate, and can be filled with sweet ingredients such as fruit, chocolate, jam, or whipped cream. It also can be made savory, with eggs, cheese, and ham. In France, crepes are more than just food, they are part of cultural traditions, especially during a holiday called La Chandeleur, or also known as “Crepe Day.”
When it was the day to make crepes, the class rushed to the culinary classroom and was excited to start cooking. Once we started making the crepes the room smelled of butter, and we quickly grabbed our crepe mixture we had made together in our last class. Watching the batter spread across the pan took some practice, and knowing when to flip the crepe was harder than it looked. Still, the process was enjoyable because everyone was involved, whether stirring ingredients, cooking, or speaking in French with others.
The best part was getting to eat what we made. We compared each other's crepes, laughing at ones that came out weirdly shaped, and practiced complimenting each other’s hard work. As we savored our crepes with a choice of jam or butter, the students presented their best, golden crepes to the teacher, as she smiled and took photos of us.
Experiences like this show that learning a language is more than memorizing vocabulary. It's about understanding how people live and celebrate. By making crepes ourselves, we applied what we learned in the classroom while learning traditions. Moments like this show how hands-on experiences can bring classroom subjects to life. Rather than simply reading about French culture, we were able to participate in it, and lessons like these not only make class more engaging, but also encourage students to step out of their comfort zone and try something new.
ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall
REPORTERS: Piper Browning, Jack Buckley, Nathaniel Carper-Young, Madeline Duffy, Teagan Freedman, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, Eve Magen, London Perlow, Mary Prindiville
SOCIAL MEDIA: Anna Baughman
Mr. Higgins
Marblehead Counseling Center 781-631-8273
Marblehead Housing Authority 781-631-2580
Marblehead Council on Aging 781-631-6225
Marblehead Food Pantry
