03.25.2026 - Volume 4, Issue 18

SPORTS

BUNNIES AT THE BEACH

MHS softball has high expectations once again

IN THIS ISSUE

FOOD 101

Frittata is the perfect spring dish

Easter egg and matzo hunt at Preston Beach

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MARCH 25, 2026

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VOLUME 4, ISSUE NO. 18

FIRST WAVE 1

As the town and schools struggle with a daunting deficit, override discussions heat up. Pages 1-5.

Five facts from this week’s Marblehead Current.

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2

MARBLEHEADCURRENT.ORG

Grassroots group ‘For Marblehead’ has launched, advcocating for a comprehensive, multiyear tax increase. Page 2.

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Seamus Letter writers 3 Columnist Hourihan talks about 4 have their say on

‘budget potholes’ in his new column. Page 4.

budget cuts, No Kings and more. Pages 4-5.

Headlight 5 MHS reports on local

students helping Cradles to Crayons. Page 11.

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Department heads decry cuts as budget advances

BY AKANKSHA GOYAL The Select Board on March 19 unanimously approved a full slate of fiscal year 2027 departmental budgets after more than three hours of hearings, as officials worked to close a $7.7 million deficit through a mix of cuts, restructuring and proposed new revenue.

Members repeatedly emphasized that the budget is built on two key assumptions: the implementation of trash fees expected to generate roughly $2 million in new revenues and an additional $1.5 million in cuts to

the school budget.

Even with those measures, the town still faces roughly $3.3 million in remaining deficit on the municipal side.

Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer said the goal was to spread cuts broadly rather than eliminate entire services, as outlined in Scenario A, which would lay off roughly 30% of the town’s municipal workforce.

“We’ve two paths to balance the budget,” he said. “One is nibbling on all the edges that we can find … or we shut down a whole function in order to fund the level.”

Public safety prioritized, but staffing concerns persist As the board reviewed departmental budgets, Kezer signaled a clear priority on public safety.

“Protection of life and property is one of the most critical things we do as government,” he said. “So, in some areas, you’re going to see growth in numbers because we’ve got to meet obligations and sustain, and in others we have to make choices.”

Fire Chief Jason Gilliland

described mounting strain on staffing levels, citing injuries, military leave and vacancies.

“I’m ordering people into 96-hour shifts,” he said. “It’s a safety thing; it’s a morale thing.”

Gilliland added that the department is effectively “down a full shift,” with six members out due to injury and two on military leave.

“Overtime is nice, but too much is too much,” he said. “They’d rather not work it anymore… It’s to the point where I have to order [overtime], which is never a good thing.”

ECONOMY

Local businesses weigh future as Chamber narrows focus

Discussion focused on whether to eliminate a vacant position or keep it funded to allow hiring later in the year and reduce overtime, with Chair Dan Fox warning that cutting it outright could worsen burnout and costs.

Police Chief Dennis King echoed similar concerns, warning that proposed staffing reductions would further strain an already lean department.

“Going to 30 for us as a sworn police department gets right at the minimum manning discussion that many police BUDGET, P. 6

NEW USE FOR OLD SCHOOL

Residents share their visions for Coffin’s future

BY LUCA TEDESCO

promotion could help strengthen the downtown economy.

“For a seaside town, we don’t get many tourists, which I know some people feel is by design — that Marbleheaders don’t want the town full of tourists,” Sturdivant said.

“However, if we lack tourists, the burden of supporting these amazing downtown businesses falls solely on our residents. That’s a big ask for our townspeople.”

Marblehead residents shared their thoughts on the redevelopment of the Coffin School site with members of the UConn Technical Assistance to Brownfields program and Director of Community Development and Planning Brendan Callahan at Abbot Hall March 18.

The UConn TAB program gives free assistance to communities who request its services to help create 3D renderings and proposals for the redevelopment of brownfield sites. TAB is funded through EPA grants.

“Our role as community engagement practitioners is to provide general brownfield education, general education on the site, answer any sort of brownfield-related questions that you guys have,” said Katie Malgioglio, community engagement manager for UConn TAB. “Brownfield redevelopment really gives a unique opportunity to get the community and residents involved.”

A brownfield is defined by the EPA as “real property, the expansion, redevelopment or reuse of which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant or contaminant. Cleaning up and reinvesting in these properties protects the environment, reduces blight and takes development pressures off greenspaces and working lands.”

While both asbestos and lead paint were found in recent investigations, the contamination risk to the surrounding area was deemed “very minimal.”

Residents asked about the viability of future development and the diligence taken by the town in testing the land.

“Are you aware that, where the dogpark-slash-athletic-field is, was a swamp?” asked Steve Elliott of Turner Road. “You go down there, just a little bit, there’s a lot of peat that goes all the way from the end of Shepherd Street over to Waterside Road…

You haven’t explored for things like the oil tank that used to be in the ground right outside the kindergarten… [If] you’re going

BUSINESSES, P. 6

COFFIN, P. 2

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Mud Puddle Toys owner Cassie Sturdivant hopes local businesses will partner more now that the Chamber is restructuring.

BY LEIGH BLANDER After the March 5 announcement by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce that it is “restructuring” and narrowing its focus, local business owners say the shift could reshape how merchants collaborate, promote downtown and advocate for shared concerns.

Mud Puddle Toys, at the corner of Pleasant and Washington streets, has been part of the Chamber for years.

“We enjoyed the Christmas Walk and other town-wide events like Sidewalk Sales,” said Cassie Sturdivant, owner of the toy store.

“Some of these were very successful.

Recently, the Chamber appears to have found these more difficult to organize successfully.”

Sturdivant said the Chamber has faced challenges — including COVID, tariffs and a slow economy — but believes it could better align with the needs of local merchants.

“I know the high annual Chamber fee is difficult for Mud Puddle, especially when there are few events or when events require additional fees,” she said. “I also think the Chamber hasn’t been designed with business owners who are parents

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COURTESY PHOTOS

The Landing’s general manager, Robert Simonelli, thinks Marblehead needs a tourism bureau.

in mind. I have difficulty attending meetings and events because many occur during school drop-off time or in the evening when I’d rely on a sitter.”

She hopes small businesses will work together to reduce costs.

“I was just talking with another business owner about going in together on a large reusable bag order with multiple store owners’ logos,” she said, noting her store uses thousands each year.

Sturdivant added that tourism

Marblehead Sport Shop owner Jason Grazado says the town is at a turning point.

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2 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

UNCERTAIN NUMBERS

School Committee questions budget cut numbers, postponed override talk

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

BY ALEKA KROITZSH

CHAIR AND PRESIDENT

At its March 19 meeting, the School Committee had planned to discuss a potential override as well as options to absorb an additional $1.5 million in school budget cuts for the 2027 fiscal year.

Instead, the committee decided to postpone the discussion of specific plans until they are certain of the accuracy of the size of the budget cut the schools need to absorb.

“I don’t want to discuss too much without knowing what the number is, but I think people in the community want to know what we’re planning, because they’re all seemingly willing to support it,” committee member Henry Gwazda said.

Slides that Superintendent John Robidoux had planned to present showed “override needs” of $1.5 million in 2027 to make up for the budget cut. If the $1.5 million override were to pass, the slides show about $4 million in override needs in FY 2028, and about $4.3 million in FY 2029, though those numbers are premised on an override passing in the prior fiscal year.

Robidoux’s slides also outlined several options for absorbing the cuts, including: » Prepaying out-of-district tuition to reduce that line in the proposed budget by $1.5 million. » Returning up to $1.5 million from the school department’s 2026 fiscal year general fund to help cover the 2027 fiscal year » Cutting an additional 20 to 30 full-time-equivalent employees beyond the 15 already proposed in the

budget. » Implementing school choice to supplement the schools’ revenue.

Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Mike Pfifferling said that these plans and calculations were all based on the need to cut $1.5 million, a figure the committee was not confident was accurate. The committee decided to hold off on discussing plans to absorb the cut and overrides until they are certain and comfortable with the number.

“I’m interested in supporting an override that is not a Band-Aid fix, that is a long-term structural fix,” committee member Melissa Clucas said. “So, whatever those numbers are, once we have those finalized, based on those cuts, I will throw all of my energy into that effort.”

Parents, teachers voice support for school funding Town leaders had previously mandated the school to absorb $2.6 million in budget cuts. But earlier this month, the schools were asked to cut an additional $1.5 million.

“Fight to support our schools, and that does mean financially support our schools because every budget cut is felt hard,” said Eve Cronin, who is a parent to three children in Marblehead Public Schools. “We live in a community, and somehow it has to be conveyed to people that if you don’t want to live in a community and help your neighbor out, then you should live somewhere more rural.”

Father of two students and Village School teacher Jonathan Heller, co-president of the Marblehead Education

Association, echoed the sentiment of shared responsibility and urged the town to choose a path that will support students.

“When we invest in our town services, we are not just getting through the moment; we are reflecting who we are as a community,” Heller said.

Former School Committee member Sarah Fox urged the Select Board to ensure their numbers “could be trusted” before going forward with the additional $1.5 million cut. Jobs are being cut, she said, and these numbers “don’t have any grounding in reality right now.”

Deliberations and calculations of budget cut amount Robidoux said he did not think the town’s numbers were accurate and was not convinced due diligence had been done in validating the budget.

In a previous meeting, he called the town’s financial assumptions around employee health insurance into question, as the cost the town estimated for employee health insurance was based on a predicted percentage increase.

Pfifferling said that, in his understanding, the budget cut had nothing to do with benefits but instead because the town was willing to allocate 63% of the town’s overall $97 million budget to the schools, which amounts to about $61 million. However, the school’s level-funded budget, including the estimated cost of employee benefits, would require $62.5 million, according to Pfifferling. These estimates are where the proposed $1.5 million

cut arose from.

“To me, this has nothing to do with benefits, other than somebody said it, and it’s one of the things we have to account for,” Pfifferling said.

Still, the School Committee is uncertain about the actual cost of employee benefits.

The employee benefit figures the town originally used to calculate the $1.5 million cut have since been updated as the town receives new information. Using these new figures, Pfifferling presented premium costs of employee health insurance in detail, outlining the cost of employee life insurance, retiree benefits, pensions and Medicaid. After discussions with Marblehead finance director Aleesha Benjamin, he determined that the town’s figure of $1.5 million was overinflated by an amount between $200,000 and $250,000.

The cost of employee health insurance could change daily with staff being hired, retiring or resigning, Pfifferling added.

“They should not have tied this to benefits, because the benefit number is not accurate,” Robidoux said.

The committee decided to convene a subcommittee meeting with the Select Board to go through the numbers and validate the data that led to the suggested $1.5 million budget cut recommendation. Members agreed that the town needs to work together through this structural deficit to come up with a solution.

Once they were sure of the data, Robidoux said they would discuss plans moving forward.

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CONTRIBUTORS

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

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DOLLARS & SENSE

‘For Marblehead’ campaign launches to support townwide budget override

BY LEIGH BLANDER As Marblehead confronts a $7.7 million budget deficit for fiscal 2027, residents concerned about deep cuts to schools and town services have launched a grassroots ballot question committee called For Marblehead. The group will “advocate for sustainable funding, responsible policies and strong civic leadership in support of the town’s schools, services and infrastructure,” according to a press release.

For Marblehead is pushing for a “comprehensive, forwardlooking” override that will “provide meaningful support across town departments.”

It is not seeking a “menu approach” override that would allow residents to pick and choose which departments to fund,

according to the group.

“We need to look at this holistically,” said Margaux Stunzi Danforth, who grew up in Marblehead and is raising her two young daughters here.

There isn’t one particular cut that hurts her the most.

“It’s not just one thing. It’s the entirety,” Stunzi Danforth said, listing the schools, library and Council on Aging. “This is a pivotal moment to invest in Marblehead for today and future generations.

When she heard that Abbot Library might close due to cuts, Jeanne Lambkin knew she had to get involved. She liked the vibe of the For Marblehead volunteers.

“It feels the opposite of divisive,” Lambkin said. “I don’t want cuts in any department — I have strong feelings across the board. And I don’t want to

have regrets that I didn’t step up to help get the best possible solution.

In a letter sent to the Select Board on March 20, For Marblehead said it is working toward a comprehensive, multiyear override that would: » Address the needs of the entire town, including schools, municipal services, public works, the library, the Council on Aging and other essential functions, rather than pitting priorities against one another. » Provide a multiyear solution that offers stability and avoids returning to the same challenges in the near future. » Give voters the chance not just to stabilize, but to restore and strengthen Marblehead through higher-tier override options. » Ensure transparency and

Coffin From P. 1

to start digging there, you need to know what’s in the ground.”

Malgoglio, along with postdoctoral environmental engineer Hayley Clos, presented the pros and cons of four potential housing developments on the Coffin School site. With present zoning rules, there could be up to 10 single-family homes or 16 to 20 duplexes. Should zoning regulations be changed to accommodate apartments, up to 40 affordable housing units could be built on the site, they explained.

Many of the residents attending the meeting expressed a preference for turning the site into a public space, playground or dogpark, alongside or in place of its

CURRENT PHOTO/LUCA TEDESCO

Marblehead residents meet to discuss the future of the Coffin School site with members of the UConn TAB program and town officials at Abbot Hall on Wednesday, March 18.

redevelopment as a housing area.

“Turner Road has a lot of little tiny houses that have been there since they were built,” said Nancy Davidge of Green Street.

“Many of them have never been modified, and they’re clearly

meeting a need. So, for me, some combination of open space and small homes.”

The TAB team also asked residents what they believed the most important aspect of a future development at the site would

discipline in how funds are used, with clear commitments and regular public reporting.

This should include a memorandum of understanding among the Select Board, School Committee and town administration, with defined priorities and annual accountability.

Since launching late last week, organizers say they have heard from more than 100 residents interested in helping.

“In the coming weeks, For Marblehead will focus on community outreach, voter education and public engagement around Marblehead’s financial outlook and the key decisions ahead before the Select Board and at Town Meeting,” according to the press release For more information, visit formarblehead.org.

be, with the majority of those present hoping to see any new developments being compatible with the surrounding community.

“Neighborhood compatibility and acceptance is the most important issue there,” said Allen Schiller of Taft Street. “Several years ago, Fair Housing tried to jam a project into the Turner Woods without dealing with the neighbors.

That didn’t go well. I think if this happens again, you’ll find a lot of resistance. I think if the main building was used for town employees and seniors, you might find some acceptance. You’re going to need parking for that building. I don’t know how much of it is going to be left after that.”

The TAB team and Callahan hope to see renderings and potential redevelopment proposals presented to the public sometime in May or June.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, March 25, 2026 3

Finance Committee details cuts, fees needed to close $7.7M deficit

BY AKANKSHA GOYAL With a roughly $7.7 million deficit still unresolved, the Finance Committee Monday night walked through multiple scenarios outlining the town’s limited options for closing the gap, with new analysis showing the scale of cuts, staffing reductions and potential fees still on the table.

Chair Alec Goolsby laid out three potential paths to a balanced budget, each involving tradeoffs between municipal services, school funding and new revenue sources.

He repeatedly emphasized that the impacts outlined are not hypothetical.

“These are not scare tactics. These are real cuts,” Goolsby said. “I’ve seen them.”

He said the goal of the presentation was to make the tradeoffs clearer.

“I’m just trying to get to a balanced budget and educate taxpayers as to what we’re voting on,” he said.

Revenues down, costs up The town is working with an estimated $96.5 million in available general fund revenue for FY27 — about $600,000 less than the prior year — driven largely by declining local receipts and reduced use of free cash.

“Less money invested, and interest rates are down as well,” Goolsby said, describing one of the key drivers.

While revised insurance estimates reduced projected costs by roughly $515,000, that does not eliminate the broader structural gap, Goolsby added.

“This is not a cut; this is an adjustment to a budget,” Goolsby said of those savings.

The result is a projected townwide deficit of about $7.7 million between

expected revenues and level-service spending.

Goolsby reiterated that the Finance Committee does not set the budget but advises the Select Board, which must ultimately present a balanced plan to Town Meeting.

Breaking down the deficit A key point of discussion, echoing recent School Committee conversations, was how to divide responsibility for closing the deficit.

The chair pushed back on framing the process as a negotiation between municipal and school budgets.

“It shouldn’t be a negotiation between town and schools,” Goolsby said. “We really should look at a townwide deficit and identify what’s driving that deficit.”

Goolsby presented a framework aimed at dividing the deficit based on each side’s share of overall costs, including benefits.

Using prior-year data and adjustments for shared expenses like health insurance and pensions, the analysis estimated that schools account for about 63% of total costs, with the town responsible for 37%.

The schools have already identified about $1.7 million in reductions to reach a level-funded budget. An additional $1.5 million request reflects what Goolsby described as their proportional share of the deficit.

“I don’t necessarily view [it] as a solution to the town’s deficit,” he said. “I view [it] as their share of the deficit.”

Three scenarios outlined

Scenario 1: Town absorbs the gap The first scenario assumes no additional

‘No Kings’ rally Some Marblehead residents will gather for the latest nationwide “No Kings” rally Saturday, March 28, 2-4 p.m.

The standout will be held at the intersection of Layafette and Maple streets.

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CURRENT PHOTO/AKANKSHA GOYAL

Chair Alec Goolsby lays out three potential paths to a balanced budget, each involving tradeoffs between municipal services, at the Finance Committee’s March 16 meeting.

reductions from the school budget beyond a levelfunded plan, leaving the town to absorb the gap.

That would require about $5.3 million in municipal cuts — equivalent to eliminating roughly 50 to 60 positions, or about 30% of the town’s workforce.

The cuts could include eliminating entire departments and significantly reducing staffing across public safety, public works and administrative offices.

“I don’t think that was actually a scenario that would have ever played out,” Goolsby said. “I just don’t think it economically makes sense for the town to lay off 30% of its workforce while the schools lay off 14 people.”

Scenario 2: Shared cuts A second scenario incorporates a $1.5 million reduction from the schools, but still leaves the town facing about $4 million in cuts.

That would result in the loss of roughly 40 positions, or about 22% of the town’s workforce.

The reductions could still mean full closures of services such as the library and Council on Aging, along with cuts across multiple departments.

Scenario 3: Fees and smaller cuts The third scenario, which Goolsby said is closest to the town’s current working approach, combines the school reductions with a proposed shift of trash collection costs to a user fee.

That change would remove the need to account for roughly $2 million from the general fund, reducing the scale of cuts.

“This is a funding mechanism,” Goolsby said of the user fee.

Even so, the town would still face about $1.8 million in cuts and the loss of approximately 18 positions, or about 10% of the municipal workforce.

“Still very deep,” Goolsby said.

Trash fee debate

Goolsby emphasized that a trash fee has not yet

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During public comment, Library Director Kimberly Grad warned that even partial reductions could effectively shut down the library due to state

With key decisions still pending, the Finance Committee is preparing for its “Super Saturday” budget review, where departments will present finalized requests.

Unlike typical years, members noted, they are moving forward without a fully settled balanced budget.

“We need a balanced budget,” Goolsby said.

“We needed it last month.”

The committee is expected to continue reviewing department budgets before making a final recommendation.

For now, the exercise is about making the consequences of each option clear, Goolsby said.

“The magnitude of any of these are severe,” he said.

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been formally adopted but is being explored as one way to mitigate layoffs.

Vice Chair Molly Teets said research shows Marblehead is unusual in fully funding trash services through property taxes.

“Eighty percent of towns in Massachusetts do not fund their waste services through property taxes alone,” she said.

Only about 10% of communities offer both curbside and drop-off services without user fees, she added.

Goolsby said the proposed trash fee would offset cuts equivalent to about 22 positions.

“Are we going to put 40 jobs on the line? Are we going to put 20 jobs on the line?” he said. “[The Select Board] have the option of doing something that a lot of other towns do.”

certification requirements.

“Scenario three still closes the library in fiscal year ‘27,” she said.

Grad said falling below funding thresholds would result in an “immediate catastrophic loss of our certification,” cutting off access not only to Marblehead’s library but to the regional library network (NOBLE) and other shared resources.

“You can’t just go to Swampscott or Salem; the NOBLE system will shut us out completely,” she said.

She estimated that about $310,000 would be needed to maintain eligibility for a waiver and avoid full closure.

“This results in an all-ornothing penalty,” she said.

marbleheadcurrent.org

4 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

MUNICIPAL MUSINGS

In abnormal Budget potholes — d’ah y’ah think? times, an affirmation of basic rights

BY SEAMUS HOURIHAN

Why are the core principles embedded in two of our country’s foundational documents — the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution — up for discussion at this year’s Town Meeting? And how does Marblehead’s historic role in fighting for these inalienable rights figure in how the town might vote, considering our current political climate?

We don’t know how Article 40 will fare. But its timeliness should resonate with most if not all voters, however symbolic its likely passage would be in terms of town governance.

In short form, Article 40 is a resolution affirming Marblehead’s adherence to basic constitutional principles, among them an independent judiciary and freedom of speech and assembly as guaranteed under the First Amendment. It further warns against the threat of “tyrannical power” while citing Marblehead’s long history of “resisting authoritarian rule” and “unwavering commitment” to civic responsibility and the rule of law.

Sounds pretty basic, right? Especially in a community like ours, which played a pivotal part in securing America’s independence 250 years ago. And which more recently has drawn large and vocal crowds to “No Kings” and anti-ICE protest rallies.

Yet nothing these days seems basic. Or normal.

Or beyond debate.

Call it a sign of these troublesome times, but voting to uphold basic constitutional principles isn’t necessarily a no-brainer civic exercise in 2026. Even if it should be.

“We thought it would be lovely to have a resolution that wasn’t dividing us, a unifying document that could be easily supported by everyone in town,” Lynn Nadeau, one of the article’s sponsors, told us, pointing to recent votes on the MBTA Communities Act as reminders of how polarizing local issues can get.

According to Nadeau, Article 40 also fits nicely with a grassroots effort to honor the Revolution’s 250th anniversary, community by community, with something more reflective of current events than fireworks shows and battlefield reenactments.

At the same time, she noted, Marblehead’s action item is very much a local product — invoking, for instance, “The Spirit of ‘76” painting prominently on display in Abbot Hall.

What does such a vote really signify, though?

And at whom is it directed?

Nadeau suggested two potential targets: a nation being stress-tested by the current administration, with its assault on basic freedoms like the separation of powers and right to vote, and Marblehead citizens themselves, who will be asked to look inward and think hard about democracy’s future and the values we hold dearly.

We were reminded of what’s at stake by a former constitutional law professor who once occupied our nation’s highest office.

“We are living in a time when it can be hard to hope,” Barack Obama said last month at a memorial service for the Rev. Jesse Jackson, a Civil Rights icon. “Each day, we wake up to some new assault on our democratic institutions, another setback to the idea of the rule of law, an offense to common decency. Every day, you wake up to things you just didn’t think were possible.”

The former president continued, “So, it may be tempting to get discouraged, to give into cynicism.

It may be tempting for some to compromise with power and grab what you can. Or even for good people to maybe just put your head down and wait for the storm to pass.”

But, he said, Jackson’s life inspired others to “take a harder path” and fight to uphold the values that make America truly great.

“Wherever we have a chance to make an impact, whether it’s in our school or our workplaces or our neighborhoods or our cities,” Obama said, “not for fame, not for glory, or because success is guaranteed. But because it gives our life purpose, because it aligns with what our faith tells us God demands. And because if we don’t step up, no one else will.”

Article 40 represents one opportunity, however symbolic, for town voters to step up and be counted. We hope they will.

It’s pothole season. On March 11, Amy McHugh, director of public works, informed the Select Board that there are more than 120 potholes in Marblehead on her list that need fixin’. D’ah y’ah think there is a relationship between pothole season and Marblehead budget season? I don’t know if there are more budget holes than potholes, but the budget holes are both deeper and wider monetarily. Back breakers.

Here are my latest Marblehead Municipal Musings covering the latest budget discussions — balanced operating budget, operating budget overrides and capital budgets.

D’ah y’ah think (DYT) anyone should be surprised by the need for an override? A year ago in the 2025 State of Town address, operating budget deficits were forecasted to be $3.7M in FY27, $7.2M in FY28, $10.5M in FY29 and $14M in FY30.

That’s a cumulative deficit of $35.4.

Those numbers included free cash consumption of $23.5M. Why would we expect any budget surpluses at all?

We are a year ahead of those forecasts with a FY27 projected deficit of $7.7 million, DYT any real planning has occurred in the last 12 months on how to mitigate these deficits to create a legally required balanced operating budget subject to the limits of Prop 2 1/2? The Select Board has not been relentless in pursuing ALL new and incremental revenue opportunities, including new growth, additional rooms and meals taxes and liquor licenses regardless of their magnitude. As far as we can tell, they have not spent concerted efforts brainstorming new revenue ideas. They have not investigated possibilities for reorganization that might save money. They have not instituted hiring freezes including replacement hires like a real business would. They are scrambling at the

last minute to define a residential trash collection fee that is considered trash by some.

Balanced operating budget scenarios lack overarching strategy

DYT lame duck Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer could get the correct date — March 4, not March 3 — on his first slide of his recent budget update presentation? Or that the FY 26 columns of numbers could be labeled consistently? In some cases, they were labeled as “budgeted” and in others as “projected.” Instead, DYT we could have “FY26 ACTUAL results”? After all, it’s been a whopping eight months since the close of FY26.

DYT Kezer’s balanced operating budget slides would tie to the $7M deficit forecasted on March 4? Not in this presentation. Projected FY27 revenues were $101 million.

The “requested” budget total was $104.5M, yielding a difference of only $3.5 million. Confusing, DYT? DYT Kezer actually thought his proposed Scenario A that defunded six departments and 56 positions was a legitimate scenario and not a charade?

DYT his Scenario B, which relies on a new residential trash collection fee raising $2M and defunding 20.5 fulltime employees, is a better option?

The Select Board thinks so since they have no other option. I think the Select Board is making a mistake in relying on Scenario B and its trash fees to develop a balanced budget.

What if that scenario is not approved by town voters because of the trash fee?

DYT the Select Board gave Kezer any guidance on developing “scenarios” for balancing the budget? DYT any Select Boarder reviewed Kezer’s slides before his presentation?

DYT the Select Board or some individual Select Boarders were embarrassed or maybe even pissed off

by Kezer’s Scenario A proposal?

DYT what’s needed is an overall strategy that encompasses both a balanced-budget scenario and override options? The better balanced budget scenario, a Scenario C, would be a 7.4% reduction across all departments — $7.7M divided by $104.1M equals 7.4%. This scenario would affect all departments equally.

The Select Board would not have to pick and choose which departments to favor. A separate warrant article would propose the new trash fees that the voters decide, not the Select Board. And then a menu of override proposals could restore services or even invest for enhanced services as the Town Meeting voters decide.

Operating budget override proposals — none yet as of March 20 DYT the Select Board has the ingredients — investment descriptions and costs, remaining time available and ability able to cook up a “Chinese menu” of override proposals that “restore, stabilize or invest” in services in as few as seven different groups of departments — schools, public safety, general government, etc. — or as many as 20 individual departments that the voters will understand?

In the case of group overrides, how would money be allocated to departments in the group? For example, in public safety — police vs. fire. Or will the Select Board have to orchestrate “Let’s Make a Deal” and present Door No. 1, Door No. 2 and Door No. 3 options that bundle more money for specific departments that are decided by the Select Board, not the voters?

DYT voters will understand how multiyear overrides work and trust future revenue and expense forecasts? I don’t. If more money is needed a year from now for FY28, another override should be proposed then.

MUSINGS, P. 5

What technology quietly learns about us

BY STEPHEN BACH Over the past few years writing for the Marblehead Current, I’ve noticed something interesting: The biggest tech stories aren’t usually about the technology itself.

They’re about what technology quietly learns about us.

And lately, the lesson seems to be this: The internet remembers more about you than you think.

Your “anonymous” account probably isn’t. Many people assume that if they create a second account with a different name, they’re invisible online. But new research suggests otherwise. A recent study found that artificial intelligence can link anonymous accounts back to real people about 68% of the time. Even more surprising, when the system does make a match, it’s correct about 90% of the time.

How? Not by hacking your password or tracing your location.

Instead, it studies your writing. The length of your sentences. The words you favor. Even how you use commas and exclamation points. All of those small habits form something like a digital fingerprint.

In other words, the way you write online may reveal more about you than your username ever does.

That has real implications. It could expose executives quietly running anonymous social media accounts.

It could also affect whistleblowers, activists or anyone who depends on anonymity for safety. Even the occasional one-star online review written in a moment of frustration might not be as anonymous as it seems.

Meanwhile, tech companies want more of our personal data than ever before.

Microsoft recently introduced a feature called Copilot Health, which aims to act like an AI medical assistant. With permission, it

can connect to medical records, prescriptions, lab results and even health data from devices such as the Apple Watch. The system reportedly integrates with more than 50,000 hospitals and healthcare providers.

The idea is convenience. In theory, the AI could help interpret lab results, remind you about medications or help organize your medical history.

Microsoft says it will not use this personal health information to train its AI systems. Still, it’s another example of how quickly we’ve moved from “never share personal information online” to connecting our most sensitive data to digital services.

A generation ago, people were hesitant to type their real name into a website. Today, many of us are linking our heart rate, prescriptions and lab reports to online platforms.

And sometimes technology reshapes markets in ways nobody expects. Take the gaming world. A newly released Nintendo title, Pokémon Pokopia, has become the highest-rated Pokémon game in more than a decade. In the game, players control Ditto — a friendly pink character — as it DOC, P. 6

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, March 25, 2026 5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

‘A direct blow to community’s well-being’ To the editor: The recently proposed budget cuts to Abbot Public Library will be a direct blow to our community’s well-being.

Reducing the library’s budget means more than just fewer library staff. The result will be reduced operating hours, fewer literacy programs for our children, and limited access to the high-speed internet that many of our neighbors rely on for job applications and schoolwork.

A more likely worst-case outcome is loss of certification (elimination of state aid and technology grants) and closure of the library.

At a time when the cost of living is rising, the library remains one of the few places where every resident can access resources. Trimming this budget may seem like a quick fix, but the long-term cost is a less-informed and less-connected community.

We urge Marblehead residents and leaders to reconsider these shortsighted cuts. We should be strengthening our public institutions, not hollowing out the very spaces that make our town a better place to live.

Colleen Polk, president Friends of Abbot Public Library

Don’t let library doors close Dear members of the Marblehead Select Board and Finance Committee: Please don’t let it happen on your watch. Don’t let the library doors close.

As many of you are aware, in 2018 we took a long, hard look at our library. We studied its history, which at that point was approaching 140 years. We decided at that time to both celebrate the history and to begin a capital campaign to raise funds to renovate our library.

The building at that time was looking very tired and had critical infrastructure needs.

We began the campaign with a gala event at Abbot Hall featuring Keith Lockhart. The evening ended with the maestro leading us all in a stirring version of “Marblehead Forever.” You could feel the pride in the room.

We do have a proud heritage, and our library is an important part of that.

Marblehead was among the earliest Massachusetts towns to fund a public library. It was done at Town Meeting in 1875. After receiving a generous bequest from Benjamin Abbot, James Gregory and others petitioned Town Meeting “to see if the town, having invested $75,000 of the Abbot Fund in our magnificent hall, will consecrate the $30,000 remaining to putting brains into it in the shape of a good library.”

Abbot Public Library officially opened in 1878, right there under “The Spirit of ‘76,” and became a town center. The town added a children’s room and a reading room, and through the years, as needs changed and the space grew more and more crowded, Town Meeting voted in

various improvements. Finally, in 1952 (again at town meeting), we were able to secure a new site and the present building was constructed.

Over the years, much has changed — the Dewey decimal system arrived; electric lights and telephones and copy machines made a difference; card catalogues came and went — and still the library continued to be the cultural and intellectual center of the town.

And that’s what it still is.

With our recent renovation (paid for by both the town and individual citizens), we are continuing to stay updated with our fast-paced world. Abbot Public Library is still the heart of the town — the place to gather, to think, to learn, to celebrate, to get a book, attend a program and so much more.

Please lead the charge to do whatever we need to keep our library funded and open. We want to be able to celebrate our 150th anniversary proudly. We want to honor our proud history and continue to nurture the brains of the children and adults in our community in a place available to all.

Phyllis B. Smith Hillside Avenue Abbot Public Library trustee, 2009-21

Nonviolent resistance has long history To the editor: As we approach the 250th anniversary of America’s independence and the war that began April 19, 1775, at the Battle of Lexington and Concord, it may be instructive to reflect on colonists’ lengthy nonviolent struggle against their government’s policies in the decade prior to the American Revolution.

Between 1765 and 1775, Britain turned to their American colonies to raise funds for a treasury depleted by war with France. The Stamp Act and the Townsend Act were taxes or duties levied on items imported by the colonies. The colonists came to regard these actions as a violation of their rights as British citizens, i.e., taxation without representation.

American colonists responded by passing resolutions; sending appeals to Britain and the king; writing letters that appeared in newspapers across the colonies, such as “Letters from a Pennsylvania Farmer”; organizing large boycotts; nonimportation and nonconsumption schemes, i.e., economic noncooperation; refusal to abide by unfair laws such as the Stamp Act; creation of symbols such as the Liberty Tree; public demonstrations that included a mock funeral for Liberty and effigies of tax agents; public meetings and protests; and the creation of parallel institutions that functioned as governing bodies, such as the Stamp Act Congress, Committees of Correspondence and Continental Congress.

These actions constituted the colonists’ nonviolent resistance against what they saw as the violation of their rights as British citizens. The colonists were attempting to send a message

Musings From P. 4

Capital budget – where is it?

DYT we should be worried about proposed capital projects funded by debt exclusions? I have heard no discussions nor seen any lists of proposed investments.

Marblehead Meritorious Service Medal – recognizing budget process contributions DYT Marblehead Meritorious Service Medals should be awarded to the

and create strong incentives for the British Parliament and king to change their policies toward the American colonies. Britain imposed the “Coercive Acts” in 1774 to exert its power and punish the colonies for pushing back, which only amplified discontent.

The public is invited to participate in a peaceful nonviolent “No Kings” rally in Marblehead on Saturday, March 28 from 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. at the corner of Maple and Lafayette streets (Route 114). Many other North Shore “No Kings” events will take place, including “No Kings” Swampscott (10 a.m.-noon at the Monument).

Register on Mobilize website (www.mobilize.us).

The League of Women Voters of the United States is one of many sponsors of this peaceful national event.

Kathleen Leonardson Cloutmans Lane

Library a ‘precious jewel’ To the editor: My 40-plus years in Marblehead hardly makes me a “townie” in the classic sense, but there are some things I do know about it. One of them is the value of Abbot Library. It is primary to the welfare of the town.

Easily accessible to patrons of all ages, with something for everyone, it is a place of inquiry and community gatherings. Not to mention a pleasant, helpful and dedicated staff, at least a couple of whom I know are products of our own schools.

One would hope, in a town with a high educational demographic, that the knowledge portal that the library represents is not a luxury but a vital essential. To shutter it would be tragic.

What message does that send to a younger generation, particularly at a time in a complex and troubled world when facts and knowledge are so critically needed?

I have long believed that reading is one of the greatest gifts that one generation can pass to another. Abbot Library is the embodiment of that concept.

I have often bragged about it to friends and relations residing elsewhere. I cannot fathom a town without a library.

Abbot is a precious jewel that must be allowed to continue its contribution to the quality of life here.

David Labovitz Tidewinds Terrace

‘Darling Dames’: Closing library would be shame To the editor: As members of the Darling Dames Book Club and residents of Marblehead, we are disheartened to hear that our town is considering closing the library due to financial pressures.

Like most residents, we understand that our town must make difficult decisions when budgets are tight. Responsible financial stewardship matters.

But closing the library would mean losing one of the few places in our community that

following for their contributions to the FY27 budgeting process to date: » Marblehead’s dedicated and incredibly knowledgeable department heads who are professionally dealing with the FY27 budget crisis and resulting employee and expense reductions. » Alec Goolsby and FinCom for discontinuing two bad accounting practices: 1. budgeting and expensing all School employee benefits on the Municipal Service Organization side of the ledger. 2. using a purely historical and arbitrary 50-50 split of revenues between Schools and MSO as basis of

serves everyone — regardless of age, income or background.

Libraries are far more than buildings filled with books.

They are gathering places for ideas, curiosity and learning.

In our book club alone, the library allows us to explore new authors, discuss different perspectives and build friendships around a shared love of reading. Without it, many of those opportunities would simply disappear.

For children, the library is often where a lifelong love of reading begins. For students, it provides quiet study space and resources. For adults, it offers lifelong learning and community connection. For seniors, it can be an important, and often the only, social and intellectual outlet.

Closing the library would also sever our connection to the regional NOBLE library network. Residents would lose the ability to borrow materials from other libraries or access shared resources across participating towns — leaving our community unnecessarily disconnected.

It is also worth remembering that our library was renovated only a few years ago with both public and private funding.

That investment reflected our community’s belief in the value of literacy, education and shared spaces. We made energy-efficient improvements, technology upgrades and created better access for those who are physically challenged. Closing it now would mean losing not only a treasured institution but also the return on that investment.

In times of financial challenge, the library should be part of the solution — not the first thing we sacrifice. It is one of the most cost-effective public services a town can offer, providing knowledge, opportunity and connection to thousands of residents.

We hope our community can come together to explore creative solutions that preserve this vital resource.

Libraries are not luxuries; they are foundations of strong communities.

Connie Barlow, Hawkes Street Martha Walton, Ocean Avenue Joanne McElhenney, Dodge Road Kate Casale, Atlantic Avenue Ann Williams, Birch Street Jeanie Denning, Beach Street Sharon Livermore, Front Street Kathleen Murphy, Longview Drive Valley Road

Why I’m going to ‘No Kings’ To the editor: I miss America — the one I have known all my life.

In the past 14 months, I have watched OUR Democracy slowly dissolving before my eyes. I am stunned that we are allowing this administration to do whatever they want with no accountability.

This is the third week of the Iran war, and this administration does not call this a war but an “excursion” and is unable to explain why they started it. It has already cost us $22.8 billion of OUR tax dollars and claimed 1.3. US lives and killed 1,300

budget allocation. » The School District’s new

administrative leaders, John Robidoux and Michael Pfifferling, for quickly developing a level-funded budget entailing a reduction of 14.75 FTE employees without drama over two months ago. » Matt Hooks for researching tax burdens in 16 other comparable towns and making the case that town operations are underfunded.

Marblehead has the 16th lowest tax burden based upon income and 17th lowest based upon property value.

Taxes as a percentage of residential

Iranians, killed 175 school girls, shut the Strait of Hormuz and spiked oil prices.

Think how this money could have been used to help OUR citizens. We could have provided Medicaid to 6.8 million kids and provide much-needed food for SNAP children and families. It doesn’t make sense that there is always money for bombs but not enough for healthcare.

I miss feeling safe in this America. I miss that OUR White House is being destroyed for no reason. I miss that OUR Constitution is being defamed by elected and unelected officials who are grabbing as much for themselves while ignoring the needs of our country.

This is Our Country, and I am standing out to let my voice be heard.

Marblehead’s No Kings Day will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the intersection of Lafayette Street (Route 114) and Maple Street.

Debra Duxbury Ware Lane

Dems celebrate successful caucus To the editor: It was standing-room-only at the Abbot Library on Saturday, March 7, as our Marblehead Democrats caucused. The enthusiastic gathering heard from Democratic candidates and elected 18 delegates, including four alternates, to represent us at the Massachusetts Democratic State Convention.

The Marblehead Democratic Town Committee is grateful to all who came out and joined us via Zoom to make this a successful caucus. We were truly inspired by the students who volunteered their time to help, and proud of two high school students who were elected to the delegation.

The crowd was addressed and energized by our hometown Senate candidate, U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton. State Sen. Brendan Crighton and District Attorney Paul Tucker also spoke. Our hard-working and recovering state Rep. Jenny Armini received a warm welcome as she attended, accompanied by a cast and crutches. Candidates for Congress and other offices informed the caucus of their campaigns. It was apparent that everyone attending, many for the first time, were responding to the critical state of our country and the existential threat to our democracy.

The “Spirit of ‘76” hangs not just in Abbot Hall, but in our hearts. Like our long list of Marblehead patriots who fought against a king and tyranny and gave us a Constitution, the Marblehead Democratic Town Committee is committed to answering the challenge of this moment in history. We invite all Dems, independents and Republicans to join us.

Please visit our website, marbleheaddems.org, to learn how to get involved. Check out the new “caucus” tab for a list of our new delegation and pictures of the caucus.

Anne Gugino-Carrigan, chair Marblehead Democratic Town Committee Cornell Road

income only ranged from 3.3% to 4.3% — a very narrow range. If Marblehead increased its percentage from 3.3% to 4.3%, an additional $10M would be available for the operating budget, covering the $7.7M deficit this year.

What d’ah y’ah think? Can the Select Board get everything done by April 4, 30 days before Town Meeting starts on May 4?

James (Seamus) Hourihan was born in Marblehead and is a MHS graduate. For 35 years, he worked in finance, marketing and executive management roles at high-tech companies. He currently sits on the Town Charter Committee.

marbleheadcurrent.org

6 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

Budget From P. 1

departments have,” he said.

King said current staffing already leaves little room beyond emergency response.

“The average [shift] is three officers and a supervisor to cover 4 square miles, 20-plus-thousand people and visitors alike,” he said. “That is a car accident and a domestic. That’s that — then the shift is [fully occupied].”

King said the department handles more than 20,000 calls annually, leaving little room to sustain additional priorities like traffic enforcement or community engagement.

Proposed reductions could also shift personnel out of specialized roles, including the school resource officer, a role King described as “really priceless.”

“Every officer outside of my detective… will have to be in patrol,” he said.

Community development: cuts threaten grants, projects Beyond public safety, the Community Development and Planning Department drew some of the strongest reaction from board members.

The proposed budget would eliminate two positions, including Director Brendan Callahan’s role, reducing the office to a two-person operation.

Callahan acknowledged the unusual position he was in.

“Presenting a budget that doesn’t include me in it is a little

Businesses From P. 1

Parking remains another major challenge, she said.

“Parking is a huge issue that will only be fixed with dedicated coordination among local customers, parking lot owners, retail businesses, nonretail businesses whose employees use all-day street parking and the town,” Sturdivant said.

Across Washington Street at Local Noon, owner Amy Connolly said she never joined the Chamber.

“No one actually tried to have me join. Should I be offended?” she asked with a laugh.

Chamber restructuring In a statement released March 5, the Chamber wrote that it will be moving forward without any paid staff and hopes to “continue to organize and

disconcerting,” he said.

Callahan said the department is currently overseeing 35 active projects with an estimated $50 million in construction costs and has secured $1.9 million in grant funding since its creation two years ago.

“Even when combining the department’s FY25 and FY26 budgets associated with department salaries, the town still had a net gain of $1.1 million,” he said.

Under the proposal, only a town planner position — currently unfilled — and a clerk would remain.

Callahan warned the town could lose future grant opportunities and delay major projects.

“The town would likely forfeit these opportunities, as there would be insufficient capacity to administer and manage the grant-funded projects effectively,” he said.

Member Jim Zisson warned the proposal could leave the town with an unsustainable structure.

“It’s a formula for a disaster,” he said.

Finance Department: restructuring and technology investments In the Finance Department, Director Aleesha Benjamin described a budget focused on restructuring roles and investing in systems to strengthen oversight and transparency.

She said it also reflects increased technology costs as the town transitions to new financial systems, requiring the

preserve several cherished community traditions that have become part of Marblehead’s identity, including Santa’s Landing, the tree lighting and parade during Christmas Walk, and Halloween trickor-treat night.”

The statement continues: “However, the Chamber will seek partners within the community to assume responsibility for other activities, including portions of Christmas Walk, such as entertainment, trolley services and decorations, as well as the Information Booth, the Visitor’s Guide and tourism promotion.

It is hoped that other interested groups may wish to carry these initiatives forward.”

At The Landing Restaurant, General Manager Robert Simonelli has been a Chamber member for about 20 years and served on its board.

“In terms of

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD PLANNING BOARD The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of Jocelyn Schepsis, for a Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the demolition of a detached garage and construction of a new detached garage at 87 NAUGUS AVENUE in a SHORELINE SINGLE RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be held in hybrid format with remote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945.

Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.marbleheadma.gov Robert Schaeffner Chairman

town to temporarily operate both old and new platforms at the same time.

“We’re really utilizing technology,” she said, pointing to new tools that allow residents to track revenues and expenses in real time.

Benjamin emphasized that the finance team plays a central but often unseen role in town operations.

“It’s a lot of people wearing several hats,” she said.

Day-to-day services face visible impacts Other departments pointed to more immediate, visible effects on town services.

Director of Public Works Amy McHugh described a steady decline in staffing, from 23 employees in 2020 to a proposed 19, with additional reductions to a laborer and part-time clerk.

“If you cut one person … that’s six or seven streets or full neighborhoods that don’t get plowed,” McHugh said.

She said the cuts will likely slow routine work, such as street maintenance, tree trimming, signage and sidewalk repairs, while stormwater projects are increasingly limited to regulatory requirements.

“We have a large list of projects that need to be done that are going to just sit on the back burner,” she said.

At the Council on Aging, Executive Director Lisa Hooper described a similar gap between demand and staffing.

The department’s staffing has declined from 15.5 positions to a

proposed 10 over the past decade in a town with more than 6,000 residents over age 60.

“The Council on Aging budget has declined 36% in the last 11 years,” she said.

Despite the reductions, the department provided more than 6,100 rides for medical appointments last year.

The position targeted for elimination plays multiple roles, including nutrition services, facility maintenance and backup transportation.

Hooper said that while many programs are supported through grants and private funding, eliminating the position would have operational and safety impacts inside the facility, which serves hundreds of residents daily.

“This position would be a big hit to us,” she said. “It’s another set of hands that has gone.”

Facilities and structural challenges Operational concerns also surfaced in the Public Buildings and inspection budgets.

Proposed custodial cuts raised questions about how town facilities would be cleaned, maintained and secured, with officials noting the town may need to rely on contracted services or reserves.

“If we’re not taking care of our buildings, they cost the town more,” Fox said, adding that reduced staffing would mean “less maintenance, less upkeep… and it’s going to cost us more in the long run.”

Officials also highlighted the ongoing reliance on inspectors

restructuring, I see the need for a visitor or tourism bureau,” Simonelli said. “And having events that bring locals out to celebrate as well as bring people to town.”

Jason Grazado of Marblehead Sport Shop off Atlantic Avenue said his Chamber membership recently lapsed after several years.

“I did not receive a renewal request as I usually do in January and haven’t renewed,” he said.

Grazado said he sometimes struggled to see direct value in membership but still felt supporting the organization was important.

“I don’t think I really felt the value — especially as a business that is not a ‘destination’ attraction in tourism publications — but I felt like it was important to the

community to be part of the Chamber regardless,” he said.

He added that a chamber can play an important role advocating for businesses with town government.

“They need to be a voice of the businesses to the town — whether helping navigate the new trash contract or advocating for plowing priorities,” Grazado said.

Doc From P. 4

builds a small world and garden.

Within four days of release, the game sold 2.2 million copies. Investors took notice. Nintendo’s stock jumped 18% in a single week, largely driven by excitement around the launch. It’s a reminder that even in a world filled with advanced technology and artificial intelligence, sometimes a cheerful cartoon character can still

to handle maintenance work.

“The fact that our inspectors are also our maintenance team; I call that part of the structural deficit because we need our inspectors out inspecting … and we need a maintenance team to maintain our buildings,” Kezer said. “We need to bifurcate those roles.”

Other town departments Other departments — including Human Resources, Animal Inspector, Veterans’ Services, Sealer of Weights and Measures, and Harbors and Waters — saw fewer changes, with budgets largely unchanged or adjusted modestly based on projected costs.

Budget process continues By the end of the afternoon, the board had stitched together a budget totaling nearly $57 million that largely preserves core services but leaves nearly every department operating with less room to maneuver.

Officials said the final budget will be presented to Town Meeting following further review, including Finance Committee deliberations, and repeatedly emphasized that many of the current decisions remain contingent on whether voters approve an override or new revenue measures like the proposed trash fee.

“A likely scenario, we would include these [personnel cuts] in an override scenario,” Kezer said.

“We have to get to a zerobalance budget today.”

more fun to partner up rather than do it on your own.”

Another organization supporting local businesses is Discover Marblehead, which launched in 2018 and promotes events, tourism and local businesses.

Director Melissa Stacey said Discover Marblehead has always viewed itself as a partner to the Chamber rather than a competitor.

“While we’ve never been formally affiliated with the

Chamber, we have always supported the Chamber and its events, and never viewed ourselves as an alternative to the organization,” she said.

The group promotes businesses through newsletters, social media, networking events and a community website.

It also collaborates with nonprofits and hosts events such as the annual Fall Fair with the Marblehead Museum.

Discover Marblehead is also developing a 72-page visitor guide that will be distributed throughout town and other North Shore communities later this year.

“Collaboration is so important for our businesses,” Stacey said.

“Partner up with your neighbor or the businesses on your block to host fun events together. It’s always

move markets.

Not every internet success story is ending well, though. BuzzFeed, once famous for quizzes and viral listicles, recently issued what’s called a “going concern” warning, meaning the company may not be able to continue operating over the next year without significant changes. At its peak in 2021, BuzzFeed went public with a valuation of about $1.5 billion. Today, its stock trades for roughly a penny — a decline of more than 98%.

The problem isn’t that people stopped scrolling.

They didn’t. But digital advertising shifted rapidly toward platforms like TikTok and Instagram, leaving many older media models struggling to keep up. The company says it’s exploring “strategic options,” which in plain English usually means it’s searching for a buyer or a major turnaround.

Technology moves quickly. But the larger pattern remains the same: every new tool brings new convenience — and new

questions about privacy, trust, and how much of our lives we’re willing to connect to the digital world.

And as the research about “anonymous” accounts suggests, the internet may know us better than we realize.

Until next time, “stay safe out there”!

(The source for many of these tips were provided

by Kim Komando of komando.com.

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

Discover Marblehead

‘Turning point’

Grazado sees changes coming for Marblehead.

“From the perspective of the customers I see, we are at a turning point for the town,” he said.

“Connection to the community through these activities is what will make Marblehead a desirable community for future generations.”

Simonelli remains optimistic.

“Everyone should keep the faith that this is a beautiful town, and we’ve had challenges since Nanapashemet was a baby,” he said. “We will learn and build a stronger Marblehead. Things change, and we pivot.

Keep it local and enjoy the community.”

TOWN OF MARBLHEAD PLANNING BOARD

TOWN OF MARBLHEAD PLANNING BOARD

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD PLANNING BOARD

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of 4J Homes LLC, for a Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the construction of additions to an existing single-family residential dwelling at 9 KENNETH ROAD in a SHORELINE SINGLE RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be held in hybrid format with remote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945.

Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.marbleheadma.gov Robert Schaeffner Chairman

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of 9 Crown Way LLC, for a Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the construction of additions to an existing single-family residential dwelling at 9 CROWN WAY in a SHORELINE SINGLE RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be held in hybrid format with remote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945.

Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.marbleheadma.gov Robert Schaeffner Chairman

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Tuesday April 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of Marblehead Real Estate II LLC, for a Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the construction of additions to an existing structure at 7 CENTRAL STREET in a BUSINESS 1 DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be held in hybrid format with remote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945. Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: lyonsl@ marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.marbleheadma.gov Robert Schaeffner Chairman

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, March 25, 2026 7

Sports MHS softball expects to be among top Division 2 teams for third straight year After starting the season with two road games, Magicians return home April 2

BY JOE MCCONNELL When the last couple of years were defined by long postseason runs – one Final Four appearance, followed by being among the Sweet 16 in Division 2 – the expectations are naturally high for more success like that this spring, if not better, especially with a veteran all-star pitcher returning for a third straight season. In softball, that’s always a good place to start.

Veteran Marblehead High coach Johnny Gold knows that to be true, and that’s why he’s so optimistic going into the start of the 2026 campaign. “We expect to get a (Northeastern) conference championship, and make it to the (Division 2) Final Four,” he said.

High school coaches usually don’t make such optimistic proclamations, but he knows he has pitcher Tessa Francis, last year’s NEC Player of the Year, back in the circle for a third straight spring.

One year ago, these Magicians finished up with a 17-5 overall record, including going 1-1 in the postseason, before losing to Hopkinton in the Sweet 16, 7-1. As the 15th seed statewide, according to final regular season power rankings, they first defeated Leominster (10-9), the 18th seed, 3-0 in the Round of 32.

Centerfielder Ashley

FILE PHOTOS

Seeing double: Above left, MHS softball senior co-captain Tessa Andriano and her twin sister, Kate, and above right, MHS softball senior co-captain Ashley Mortensen and her twin sister, Isabel, will be among the eight seniors on the varsity roster this spring looking to be among the best in Division 2 statewide for the third straight year.

Mortensen and third baseman Tessa Andriano are this year’s captains. Gold had 22 show up for the first official day of practice on March 16. Among that group was freshman Avery Sheridan, who is already making an impression on the coach. “(Sheridan) is an excellent athlete, who may actually start (at second base),” said Gold.

Possibly joining Sheridan in the starting lineup (always subject to change) are catcher Isabel Mortensen, Andriano at third, shortstop Hailey Schmitt, first baseman Kate Andriano, leftfielder Nora Mahan, Ashley Mortensen in center,

SET FOR SUCCESS

For the third straight year, pitcher Tessa Francis, last year’s NEC Player of the Year, will be back in the circle for the MHS softball team.

right-fielder Lucy Rogers and designated hitter and utility player Lillian Reddy.

Grace Dowd, who is capable of playing second or third, and Delia Heit and Ava Pouladian, backup catchers and designated hitters, will add considerable depth to the overall varsity roster.

Gold acknowledges that starting pitching, hitting and speed will be the strengths of this year’s varsity squad with its only weakness being perhaps a backup pitcher. It’s definitely going to be a veteran club, with eight seniors leading the way.

One junior, and two sophomores and two freshmen will round out

the roster.

Gold expects no easy games this year. “The Northeastern Conference has very strong and talented teams (throughout both the Dunn and Lynch Divisions),” he said.

With no tuneup scrimmages on the schedule, the Magicians will begin the season against non-league host Lynnfield on Tuesday, March 31. They will be at Masco the next day.

Both games will start at 4 p.m.

Gold’s crew will close out the week at home on the Veterans Middle School diamond against non-league Bishop Fenwick on April 2, starting at 4:30 p.m.

NEW EVENT

Shelley Burns Girls welcome lacrosse season named varsity with first ever kick-off gathering volleyball coach

BY ALEKA KROITZSH

Shelley Burns has been named Marblehead High’s new varsity volleyball head coach for the 2026 season.

With a wealth of experience on and off the court, Burns will bring a unique combination of athletic excellence, a deep understanding of the needs of student-athletes and a passion for creating a successful team culture, according to Athletic Director Kent Wheeler.

Shelley Burns Burns has been a member of the Marblehead community since 2017 when she started as the English language education teacher at the Village School. In 2019, she began coaching volleyball at Marblehead High School, first as the JV2 coach, then as the JV coach.

Since then, Burns has coached teams of various ages, from 13-year-olds to 18-year-olds, and has gained valuable experience coaching and working with high-school-age youth. Burns is now the librarian at Village School and is excited to take on the new role of varsity volleyball coach at MHS. According to the MHS Athletic Department, Burns has attended seminars and read extensively on sports psychology, coaching volleyball and developing mental performance. Wheeler believes she is ready to put this new knowledge to work, making a real difference for MHS student-athletes.

“Shelley is a lifelong learner and part of our athletic and school community,” Wheeler said.

“She understands our values and has an established relationship with many of our students and coaches. I am looking forward to her leading our volleyball program this fall.”

On March 15, nearly 100 Marblehead students from prekindergarten to 12th grade gathered in the high school field house with their sticks and goggles to celebrate the beginning of the lacrosse season.

The gym was packed with coaches, parents and lacrosse players of all skill levels.

“I’m so excited that all of you also love lacrosse… It’s really special we’re all going to be here together,” Marblehead High School lacrosse head coach and event organizer Annie Madden told the girls as they sat in the middle of the gym, listening intently.

The event began with the announcement of the “sticks-up challenge,” a bingo-like game where students could cross off squares once they completed a practice drill, with a lacrosse stick as the prize for the winner.

Then, fifth- to eighth-graders went outside to the field to scrimmage while the high schoolers coached the younger students through drills.

Girls lacrosse secretary and event organizer Kate Thomson said she hoped the event would encourage community pride, skill development, connectedness between all levels of girls lacrosse, and might facilitate a broader view of how skills should progress across age groups.

Marblehead lacrosse has become a model for player development regionally, she said.

“There’s been a big push this year

CURRENT PHOTO/ALEKA KROITZSH

The first girls lacrosse kick-off March 15 drew nearly 100 students, ranging prekindergarten to 12th grade.

to clarify the lacrosse community,” Thomson said. “In a small town, it’s so special for the younger girls to go to a high school game and know the players… They’ll wave to you from the field.”

President of Girls Youth Association Molly Huddleston, who also helped organize the kick-off, added that the younger girls really look up to the high schoolers.

“We love this game,” ninth-grade lacrosse player Julia Thomson said as she watched the high school and elementary schoolers play a game she called “Sister-Sister,” which began with them running in a circle to music.

When the music stopped, a younger girl would jump onto a highschooler’s back for a piggy back ride.

Julia Thomson said that when she was in elementary school, she used to attend lacrosse clinics that the high

school girls coached and remembers hoping to be like them. Teaching lacrosse skills to the younger kids is also really helpful for the highschoolers to refine their skills, she added.

Marblehead resident Julie Willey brought her second grade daughter, who had never picked up a stick before, to the kick off. Willey said she was excited for her daughter to make new friends and to learn about being a part of a team.

“The girls’ interest and love of sports is palpable,” seventh and eighth grade girls lacrosse coach Mike Gillet said. “From a social aspect, it’s so important for them to learn to work together and to find what their role is in contributing to that greater team.”

Marblehead girls’ lacrosse practice began last week.

marbleheadcurrent.org

8 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

CUZNER IN NATURE

Wait, there’s another one!

BY RICK CUZNER Over the last several years, there have been as many as four (maybe more) long-eared owls wintering over along the Salisbury coast.

Last weekend, myself and a friend took a ride along the coast to try and find one.

It didn’t take long.

The birder with a spotting scope gave it away. To our surprise, there wasn’t one, but rather two long-eared owls buried in the pines. We took a few photos and checked them out with binoculars for a bit. After a bit of time, my friend found a

third, in the same tree. This owl was so well camouflaged that no one else had seen it. Then we saw a fourth!

While long-eared owls are not exactly rare, they are usually so well hidden that they are never seen. These owls are known for grouping together in the same tree. Several years ago I found seven in one tree in Lexington. Incidentally, a group of owls together is known as a parliament of owls.

The Marblehead Current is proud to partner with photographer Rick Cuzner, who has been photographing local wildlife for nearly 20 years

VARSITY SCHEDULE Thursday, March 26 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Woburn at Woburn High 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Burlington at MHS Piper Field Friday, March 27 4 p.m., boys tennis vs.

Pingree at Pingree, Hamilton Saturday, March 28 10 a.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Essex Tech at Essex Tech Stadium, Danvers Sunday, March 29 Noon, co-ed sailing vs.

Wellesley at Lake Cochituate, Natick Monday, March 30 4 p.m., boys tennis vs.

Andover at Marblehead High Tuesday, March 31 4 p.m., girls softball vs.

Lynnfield at Lynnfield High 7 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Swampscott at MHS Piper Field Wednesday, April 1 4 p.m., girls softball vs. Masconomet at

Masconomet, Boxford 4:15 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Masconomet at Seaside Park 4:30 p.m., boys and girls outdoor track vs. Peabody at Peabody High stadium Thursday, April 2 3:30 p.m., boys tennis vs.

Lynnfield at Lynnfield High 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Bishop Fenwick at MHS Piper Field 4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Manchester-Essex at Seaside Park 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs.

Bishop Fenwick at Veterans Middle School Monday, April 6 4 p.m., girls softball vs.

Bishop Fenwick at Bishop Fenwick, Peabody 4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Masconomet at Masconomet, Boxford 4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Masconomet at Marblehead High 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs. Beverly at Beverly High

Tuesday, April 7 4 p.m., boys and girls track vs. Danvers and Swampscott, Village School 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Beverly at MHS Piper Field Wednesday, April 8 TBA, boys tennis vs. Bishop Fenwick, Marblehead High 4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Swampscott, DeFelice Diamond, Swampscott Middle 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs.

Swampscott, Marblehead Veterans School Thursday, April 9 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Newburyport, MHS Piper Field Friday, April 10 3:30 p.m., boys tennis vs.

Hamilton-Wenham at Hamilton-Wenham High 4 p.m., girls softball vs.

Peabody at Kiley School, Peabody 4 p.m., girls tennis vs.

Hamilton-Wenham at Marblehead High 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Swampscott at MHS Piper Field 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Swampscott at Blocksidge Field, Swampscott 4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Peabody at Seaside Park Monday, April 13 4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Swampscott at Swampscott Middle 4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Swampscott at Marblehead High 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Danvers at MHS Piper Field 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Danvers at Danvers High Tuesday, April 14 4 p.m., boys and girls track vs. Beverly at Beverly High Wednesday, April 15 4 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Beverly at Beverly High 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Peabody at Peabody High 4:30 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Peabody at MHS Piper Field 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs.

Beverly at Marblehead Veterans School Thursday, April 16 4 p.m., girls tennis vs.

Peabody at Peabody High Friday, April 17 4 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Saugus at Belmonte School World Series Park, Saugus 4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Beverly at Beverly High 4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Beverly at Marblehead High 4:15 p.m., girls softball vs.

Medford at Columbus Park, Medford Monday, April 20 10 a.m., girls softball vs. Saugus at Belmonte School softball field, Saugus 11 a.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Central Catholic at MHS Piper Field 2:30 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Saugus at MHS Piper Field Wednesday, April 22 10 a.m., boys and girls track vs. Saugus at NEC Dual Meets Spring Challenge, Gloucester High 10 a.m., boys baseball vs.

Danvers at Twi Field Baseball Diamond, Danvers 10 a.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Masconomet at MHS Piper Field 4 p.m., boys lacrosse vs. Masconomet at Masconomet turf, Boxford 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs.

Danvers at Marblehead Veterans School Friday, April 24 10 a.m., boys baseball vs.

Masconomet at Frasier Field, Lynn 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs. Masconomet at Marblehead Veterans School Saturday, April 25 TBA, boys baseball vs. TBD at Frasier Field, Lynn Monday, April 27 4:30 p.m., girls tennis vs.

Saugus at Marblehead High Tuesday, April 28 4 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Salem at Bertram Field,

Salem 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Salem at MHS Piper Field 4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Salem at Seaside Park Wednesday, April 29 4 p.m., boys tennis vs.

Danvers at Danvers High 4:30 p.m., boys and girls track vs. Masconomet at Bertram Field, Salem 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs.

Salem at Marblehead Veterans School Thursday, April 30 4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs. Beverly at MHS Piper Field 6 p.m., boys lacrosse vs.

Beverly at Beverly High Friday, May 1 4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Masconomet at Masconomet, Boxford 4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Masconomet at Marblehead High 4:30 p.m., girls softball vs. Malden Catholic at Marblehead Veterans School Saturday, May 2 11 a.m., girls lacrosse vs.

Manchester-Essex at Manchester-Essex High 1 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Bishop Fenwick at Seaside Park Monday, May 4 4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Salem at Salem High 4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Salem at Marblehead High 4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs.

Gloucester at Nate Ross Baseball Field, Gloucester

Strengthen Marblehead.

Support the businesses that Make our town special.

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, March 25, 2026 9

CURRENT EVENTS

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

—Leigh Blander

Current Trivia Night Wednesday, March 25, 6 p.m.

After the blizzard postponed its February event, the Current will host its annual Trivia Night at The Landing Restaurant. Come test your knowledge with Trivia Master (and Current consulting editor) Kris Olson.

Tickets are $35. Go to MarbleheadCurrent.org.

Suffrage on Stage: An evening with performer Ari Conte

Bunnies on Beach Bluff

Abbot Library book sale

Saturday, April 4, 10-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Join Clifton Improvement Association in Beach Bluff Park for its inaugural Easter egg and matzah hunt. There will be a variety of familyfriendly activities, including an Easter egg and matzo hunt throughout the park (bring your own basket). Kids can pet live bunnies from Felix’s Family Farm in Ipswich and meet the Easter Bunny and grab a photo with beautiful Preston Beach in the backdrop. $25 donation per family. Your ticket supports Clifton Improvement Association’s conservation and maintenance efforts for Beach Bluff Park and Preston Beach access. Register at https://loom. ly/3-xQF1Q.

Spring into a new book with the Friends of Abbot Public Library’s spring book sale. Find your next great read (which you won’t have to return!) while supporting the library.

Proceeds from the book sale will go towards Abbot Public Library’s programs and services, including museum passes, the Library of Things and more.

Lenten choral concert at Old North Sunday, March 29, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 27, 7 p.m.

Join the Marblehead Museum and Marblehead Little Theatre for a Women’s History Month program celebrating “Suffs,” the Tony-winning musical about the women’s suffrage movement. This program is free, with a $20 suggested donation is encouraged at the door.

Members of the Old North Church Senior Choir, soloists, singers from the Old North Festival Chorus and the Old North Festival Orchestra will present a 60-minute concert in the sanctuary at Old North.

Featured soloists will include sopranos Anne Burgett and Holly Cameron. The choral centerpiece of the Lenten concert will be John Rutter’s stunningly beautiful “Requiem.” Excerpts from Pergolesi’s sublime “Stabat Mater,” the fifth movement from the Brahms “Requiem” and seasonal hymns will also be performed.

The musicians will be led by Maria van Kalken, who is celebrating her 37th season as director of the Festival Chorus. The concert is free and open to the public, though a free-will offering will be gratefully accepted.

‘James’ community conversation

‘Goddess’ book reading

Wednesday, March 25, 7 p.m.

Monday, March 30, 7 p.m.

Join author and Marblehead native Emily Marcus Gong to discuss her debut novel, “Goddess,” at Abbot Library. The novel uses mythology to reframe women’s modern experiences. The Current interviewed Gong earlier this year about her debut novel. Read that interview at marbleheadcurrent.org/?s=gong.

The Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination is sponsoring a “community conversation on story, voice and perspective” using Percival Everett’s novel, “James.” The decorated novel (2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, National Book Award for Fiction, 2024 Kirkus Prize) is a retelling of Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” but from the perspective of the fugitive slave Jim. At Abbot Library. Free and open to the public.

FOOD 101

Frittata — a meal anytime of day

BY LINDA BASSETT

In Italian vernacular, the phrase “are una frittata” translates as “to make a mess.”

But on the table, that mess becomes delectable. Quite different from a mess of grits or a mess of catfish, a frittata brings beaten eggs together with whatever the cook imagines for a quick meal — breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Often likened to an omelet, a plain frittata happily doesn’t require risky flipping for perfection. It puffs up to golden glory and interior creaminess with a quick trip to the oven.

Plain for breakfast, the cook might want to add a sprinkling of cheese — any kind, it needn’t be Italian — or cooked bacon crumbles. I like a handful of chopped fresh green herbs e.g. basil, parsley, dill, mint or any of them in combination. Change it up with a variety of veggies from sliced potatoes to sauteed onion to spinach leaves and there’s lunch!

For a light supper, combine cubes of cooked chicken, a handful of roasted vegetables

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

and/or chopped fresh herbs.

Pair with salad and hot crusty bread. Save the the leftovers for tomorrow’s sandwich. Room temperature.

Cooking a frittata requires little equipment — a skillet; a whisk and bowl for beating the eggs; a spatula; a knife and cutting board for any chopping.

Start with a moderately hot pan. Pour in a bit of olive oil to cover the bottom generously.

If you like garlic, walk a peeled whole clove around the bottom of the pan until it turns golden, then discard. Add the fillings, stirring to warm. Then add eggs, beaten with a splash of water or a dash of half-and-half to help the yolk and white get along. Pour the mixture over the fillings already in the pan (it should barely cover them) and give the pan a swirl.

Use a spatula to gently lift the edges all around allowing some uncooked egg mixture to flow to the bottom. Cook just until the bottom sets. Slide the whole pan into a preheated oven and bake until the top puffs up into a golden cloud. Scatter with grated cheese. (Make sure to use

A BASIC FRITTATA MAKES 4 SERVINGS.

` 6-7 extra-large eggs ` 2 tablespoons water ` Salt, ground black pepper ` 1 tablespoon each unsalted butter and olive oil, to coat the bottom of pan

PHOTO / LINDA BASSETT

You don’t need fancy cookware to make a good frittata.

potholders to grab the handle.)

And, ready!

A few tips: If you have a cast iron skillet, use it. Leftover spaghetti — without tomato

sauce — makes a great filling.

You might top the cooked frittata with a dollop of whipped ricotta.

Real recipe follows:

Heat oven to 400F. Beat eggs with water, salt and pepper, until foamy.

Heat butter and oil in a heavy 10-inch skillet over medium low heat. Be sure the bottom is coated with oil and butter. Pour in eggs; reduce heat to low.

Cook, shaking the pan and lifting the edges with a spatula to allow eggs to stream into the pan to cook. Do not allow it to brown.

While the top is still wet and glossy, transfer the skillet to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes.

The frittata is ready when the top is slightly puffed and golden.

Linda Bassett lived in Marblehead for years and has worked as a cook, trained up-andcoming chefs, studied food history and led food tours. Her book, “From Apple Pie to Pad Thai,” is about local cooks and cooking.

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

OBITUARIES

and brothers-in-law, Ellen and John Philip of Hampden, Massachusetts, and Barbara and Dr. Michael O’Callaghan of Cork, Ireland, as well as many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

A graduate of the St. Elizabeth’s nursing program, Carol began her career as the private duty surgical nurse for the chief of otolaryngology for

the Mass Eye & Ear Infirmary in Boston. She then became a liaison nurse for Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital with the primary responsibility of evaluating patients at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Following the birth of her son, she continued her career in liaison with various rehabilitation settings while completing her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Cambridge College.

Carol had a unique and significant impact on nursing. As a member of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses, she was one of the first graduates of the Nurse in Washington Internship.

She founded the ARN Legislative Committee, which influenced federal legislation on behalf of nurses and patients.

Carol was the editor of PLAN (Pertinent Legislation Affecting Nurses), a monthly

Massachusetts publication utilized by nursing institutions organizations and academia to easily keep informed of the role of government in their nursing practice and patient care.

In 2006, she received the designation of certified rehabilitation registered nurse and in 2007 was recognized as Case Manager of the Year by the Case Management Society of America. She completed her career as a case manager at Brigham & Women’s Hospital Boston, retiring in 2017.

As a Marblehead resident, Carol was an active member in the Junior Aid Society, helping to raise funds for HAWC and the Girls Club of Lynn. Carol volunteered at the Me & Thee Coffeehouse, where she baked and ran the kitchen where the coffee and desserts were sold.

She also volunteered with the performing arts section of the

Marblehead Festival of Arts.

Carol also edited and assisted in the publication of the Junior Aid Society and Marblehead Festival of Arts cookbooks.

Visiting hours were held on Friday, March 20 at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, and her funeral began from the funeral home on Saturday, March 21, followed by a funeral Mass at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead.

In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting a donation in Carol’s name to Alzheimer’s research (alz.org), Me & Thee Music (meandthee.org) or the Marblehead Festival of Arts (marbleheadfestival.org/ donate-1).

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

as a surgical nurse from 19621963. She was a devoted RN for

35 years at Auburn Memorial Hospital.

She was a member of the Popham Circle Ladies Group, the American Legion Post 216 in Maine and was a communicant of St. Mary’s church for many years prior to moving.

Alice, along with her husband, Chester, enjoyed modern square dance and round dancing. She was very talented at crafting, especially her lobster mermaids.

Her greatest joy came from the time she spent with her beautiful family.

Alice is survived by her

loving husband of 62 years, Chester; her children, Joseph Kolczynski, Lisa (David) Rouse, James Kolczynski and Nina Kolczynski; her grandchildren, Katrina (Shaun) Garrigan, Samantha Kolczynski (Brandon Garrigan), Christopher (Amy) Rouse, Caitlyn (Keagan) Kolczynski, Gaelon Kolczynski, Jordan (Caitlyn) Young and Ian Kolczynski; five great grandchildren, with one on the way; as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Alice was predeceased by her

three brothers and two sisters.

Visitation was held Thursday, March 19 from 4-8 p.m. at White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., 197 South St. Auburn. A funeral Mass was celebrated 11 a.m. on Friday, March 20 in St. Mary’s Church, 15 Clark St., Auburn. Interment followed in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Auburn Community Hospital, 17 Lansing St., Auburn, NY 13021. By writing Alice’s name in the memo, these donations will go towards nurse’s week.

in 1975.

Janice was a proud graduate of the University of Western Ontario, earning her bachelor’s degree in 1954. The following year, she married the love of her life, Derwyn Phillips, in 1955.

Together, they built a life that spanned continents and decades, sharing in each other’s joys and supporting one another through every chapter.

Those who knew Janice knew a woman with a powerful personality and an even bigger heart. She had a gift for empathy, a genuine ability to make people feel seen and cared for. Her circle of friends was enormous, and her family was tight-knit and close, held together in no small part by her loving presence. Janice traveled the world with curiosity and enthusiasm, collecting experiences and stories that she shared generously with those around her.

She was an avid sports fan and an accomplished athlete in her own right, passionate about skiing, golf and tennis. She was a member of the Tedesco Country Club and the Corinthian Yacht Club for many years. Her garden was a source of pride and peace, a reflection of the care she put into everything she touched.

Janice dedicated decades of volunteer service to Salem Hospital in Massachusetts, and before that, she was an active contributor to the Junior League in Montreal, Canada. Her charitable spirit was a defining part of who she was.

Janice was a 33-year seasonal resident of Vero Beach, Florida, where she and her husband Derwyn were members of the Moorings Club, Hawks Nest Golf Club and the Quail River Club.

She had a wonderful group of friends there and was very active in that community.

Janice and her family also spent a great deal of time at Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado, which had an important place in her heart. Her grandchildren learned to ski there, and she shared a number of wonderful experiences with her family while at the mountain.

Janice is survived by her beloved husband, Derwyn Phillips; her children, Tim and his wife Jill, Laurie Allard, whose spouse was the late Leo Allard, and Jay and his wife Michelle; her grandchildren, Tucker and Jackson Allard, Nikki and Jaclyn Phillips, and Maika Gordon, Tyler Dolben and Nickolas Phillips. She also leaves three great grandchildren, Callahan Lohrer and Myles and Greta Gordon. She will be deeply missed by the many friends and family members whose lives she enriched.

Memorial services will be on April 10 at 10 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Church in Marblehead, followed by a reception at Tedesco Country Club at noon.

May she rest gently in God’s grace and may the melody of her life continue to bring comfort to all who loved her.

Carol A. Gleason, 75 Carol A. (Novak) Gleason, 75, of Marblehead passed away peacefully on March 15 at the Lafayette Rehabilitation and Nursing Home surrounded by her loving family following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in Franklin, New Hampshire, the daughter of the late Adam and Rita Novak, Carol was the loving wife of Dr. William Gleason, with whom she celebrated 51 years of marriage. She was also a devoted mother and mother-in-law to Stephen and Rhonda Gleason of Marblehead and loving Mimi to Colin and Clara Gleason.

She is survived by her sister, Jean Mellott of Lincoln, Rhode Island; sisters-in-law

Alice W. Kolczynski, 85 Alice W. (Percy) Kolczynski, 85, of Phippsburg, Maine and formerly of Auburn passed away on March 12. Mrs. Kolczynski was born in Arlington, Massachusetts, on Feb. 5, 1941, to the late Minot and Ilene Neas Percy.

Alice proudly served our country with the U.S. Air Force

Janice I. Phillips, 94 Janice Irene (Hunt) Phillips passed away at her home in Marblehead on March 16. Born on Jan. 18, 1932, in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. She was the daughter of Jack and Irene Hunt and the sister of Howard Hunt.

Janice lived a life full of adventure, warmth and deep connection to the people and communities she loved. From her father, Jack, she inherited an appreciation for music and a passion for sports. She was a competitive athlete her whole life, focusing first on tennis and then skiing and golf. She skied all over the world and enjoyed her weekends at Mt. Blanc in Canada and subsequently at Cannon and Attitash after moving to the U.S.

POLICE LOG

Possible link between punctured tire, noise complaint probed Monday, March 2

Alarms: 0 Building/property checks: 11 Abandoned 911 calls: 0 Vehicle stops, citations: 1 Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 2 11:35 a.m. An officer spoke at the station with a woman who had found cash in the parking lot of Village Plaza near Dunkin Donuts. The woman had posted about it on Facebook and was advised to turn the cash into police, which she was now doing.

The officer placed the cash into an evidence locker and alerted the property officers.

12:25 p.m. A detective attempted to serve a summons on Fort Beach Way. 4:42 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Pleasant Street.

6:35 p.m. An officer assisted another agency on Atlantic Avenue and Rolleston Road.

6:43 p.m. Officers investigated a general complaint on Barnard Street and filed a report.

8:08 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Lafayette Street and filed a

report.

Tuesday, March 3

Alarms: 0 Building/property checks: 8 Abandoned 911 calls: 1 Vehicle stops, citations: 0 Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 8:41 a.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Waterside Road.

2:48 p.m. Officers, firefighters and an ambulance crew responded to the scene of a vehicle accident on Atlantic Avenue. Upon his arrival one officer observed a grey 2023 Toyota Rav 4 crashed into the back of a black 2007 Toyota Camry. As he was approaching the scene, he observed a bystander assisting the driver of the Toyota Rav 4 over to a bench on the sidewalk. After a conversation with the driver, the officer then started to walk the scene and observed a Black 2025 Volvo XC90 that the Rav 4 had also struck. The officer spoke to the owner of the Volvo who told him that her vehicle was parked in front of 33 Atlantic Ave., and she had come back to

her vehicle to find it had been hit, suffering heavy damage on the left side and requiring it to be towed from the scene.

The officer then spoke with the owner of the Toyota Camry who said he did not observe the accident but heard it while he was inside 33 Atlantic Ave. After seeing that his vehicle had been struck, the Camry owner helped the Rav 4 driver out of his vehicle and onto the bench.

Both vehicles were towed away from the scene. The officer then went into Johnny Ray’s Music Emporium and spoke with an employee, who was able to show him surveillance footage of the accident. The video showed the Rav 4 headed outbound on Atlantic Avenue and sideswiping the Volvo, which caused the driver to lose control of his vehicle and crash into the back of the Camry. The driver did not appear to be driving at an excessive speed and just drifted into the parked cars due to the condition he was in, according to the officer’s report. The Rav 4 was inventoried prior to being towed from the scene.

3:12 p.m. An officer assisted another agency on Gilbert Heights Road.

4:10 p.m. Officers, firefighters and an ambulance crew responded to the scene of a vehicle accident on Beacon Street.

4:14 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Jersey Street and West Shore Drive.

4:39 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Tioga Way and Green Street.

6:06 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Jersey Street.

6:14 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Harbor Avenue.

Wednesday, March 4

Alarms: 3 Building/property checks: 8 Abandoned 911 calls: 1 Vehicle stops, citations: 0 Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 6:54 a.m. Officers, firefighters and an ambulance crew

responded to the scene of a vehicle accident on Lee Street.

8:22 a.m. An officer assisted with a water break reported on Peach Highlands.

10:27 a.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Front Street.

10:28 a.m. An officer spoke over the phone with a woman who reported that her vehicle’s tires appeared to have been slashed on Pleasant Street, which she had discovered while starting to back out of her driveway, only to get a low-pressure alert. She got out of the car and discovered three slash marks to her front passenger tire, which appeared to have been made by a sharp tool.

The woman later emailed the officer photos that showed gouge marks in three different locations on her tire. The officer noted that the tire in the photo appeared to be deteriorated, and the rim had scuff marks throughout.

The woman suspected that her neighbor may have slashed the tire, though she had no proof of that, and he had not made POLICE, P. 12

marbleheadcurrent.org

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Marblehead Current Wednesday, March 25, 2026 11

Headlight

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community 2025-2026 Issue

www.mhsheadlight.com

March 25, 2026

Cradles to Crayons

2026 Sophomore Semi Anna Cruikshank, Assistant Editor, Sophomore

Grey Collins, Editor-In-Chief, Senior

It's that time of year when the Marblehead High School sophomore class gathers at Endicott College’s Tupper Manor for a memorable night of dance, music, and celebration! This event is a classic at MHS, and has been one of my favorite high school memories yet.

We arrived at MHS and were breathalyzed for safety, then took buses and arrived at Tupper Manor shortly. With its elegant architecture and scenic coastal setting, the venue is a beautiful place for the most anticipated event of sophomore year. The space filled with students catching up with friends, taking photos, and heading to the dance floor. A buffet-style spread gave students plenty of options, and the ice cream bar quickly became a favorite stop for many throughout the night. Between dancing and talking with friends, students could grab something to eat and relax before heading back onto the dance floor.

Behind the scenes, the event required months of planning and preparation by the sophomore class officers. From organizing logistics to selling tickets and coordinating details with the venue and catering,

On Thursday, members of the Social Studies Honors Society took the hour-long bus trip to Newton, Massachusetts, where they spent the day volunteering at a warehouse, sorting and stacking donated clothing. For the day, they traded their desks and pencils for boxes and bags of donated clothing at the Cradles to Crayons warehouse, dedicating their time to helping young people living below the poverty line.

Cradles to Crayons is an organization committed to supporting children up to age 12 in low-income or homeless situations by providing everyday essentials like clothing and school supplies–items necessary to thrive in both learning and social environments. According to the Cradles to Crayons’ mission statement, "One day every child will have the essentials they need to feel safe, warm, ready to learn, and valued.”

The MHS Chapter of the Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honors Society, founded just last spring by students and faculty advisor and U.S. History teacher Lindsay Bachman, is currently in its inaugural year with its first class of 28 MHS seniors. The newly-found chapter held their first meeting last May, when they elected their officers: the President Grey Collins (the writer), Vice President Colin Maniaci, Treasurer Alex Humphreys, and Secretary Sydney Ball.

Throughout the year, members have participated in a range of community service and educational activities, including hosting guest speakers such as State Representative Jenny Armini and Town Historian Don Doliber, as well as organizing a holiday food drive for the Salem Food Pantry.

The bus departed the high school on Thursday at approximately 8:30 a.m. and drove to the Cradles to Crayons warehouse in Newton, MA, where the students filed out and joined other comm-

unity members inside to listen to a short presentation from the organizers.

During their two-hour volunteer session, students enthusiastically sorted through donations and helped organize clothing by size.

“It was really cool to see how excited everyone was to work together with the community to make a difference,“ said Ms. Bachman. The team of volunteers sorted and sized a total of 144 boxes of clothing, a number that was cheered when it was revealed. Some of the students even brought their own donations to contribute.

“Cradles to Crayons and the Marblehead students who volunteered there did a lot to help address clothing insecurity, as two in five children do not have the appropriate clothing they need,” said Bachman. “Having appropriate clothing improves health and hygiene, limits bullying, and prevents absences in school.”

the officers worked together to make sure the evening ran smoothly. Their efforts played a huge role in creating such a successful event.

Sophomore Vice President Lucy Molinari reflected on the experience of helping organize the event: “Being a part of planning the Sophomore Semi-formal was both exciting and rewarding, as it involved organizing everything from selling tickets to the overall atmosphere of the event.

“It was especially fun to watch all the details come together after so much preparation and time spent with the other officers. The night itself was a huge success, and it was great to see everyone come together to enjoy such a fun and memorable night.”

By the end of the night, it was clear that the Sophomore Semi-formal had lived up to expectations. With a beautiful venue, great music, delicious food, and thoughtful planning by the class officers, the dance became a highlight of the school year and a night many sophomores will remember.

Every sophomore in attendence had an amazing night getting dressed up, dancing, and spending time with their friends!

Headlight Staff 2025 - 2026 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Anna Baughman

REPORTERS: Piper Browning, Jack Buckley, Nathanial Carper-Young, Madeline Duffy, Teagan Freedman, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, London Perlow, Mary Prindiville FACULTY ADVISOR: Mr. Higgins

marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Marblehead Current

Police

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any threats. However, the woman a few days earlier had called police to lodge a noise complaint about him. The officer asked if she had any cameras on her property, but she did not. The officer then spoke with the neighbor, who told the officer that there was no bad blood between him and his neighbor, adding that he had no reason to go around slashing tires. He mentioned speaking to an officer earlier in the week about him doing work on his property, which she did not like. But he said that he never went near her vehicle and reiterated that he had no business slashing tires.

11:32 a.m. An officer took a report over the phone regarding credit card fraud.

A woman reported that a Walmart credit card had been opened under her name and used to purchase a PlayStation video game system and a pair of headphones for $919.45.

The woman said that she did not own a Walmart credit card and had never attempted to apply for one. The woman had called Walmart and reported the fraudulent purchases and was assured that the card would be canceled without her needing to pay anything. The woman said she never gave her personal information out to anyone and that she rarely shops online. The officer advised her to monitor her accounts to make sure no other charges were made.

2:15 p.m. Officers assisted with school crossings on Dartmouth and Cornell roads, and Pleasant Street and Mohawk Road.

UNLOCKING THE DOOR TO YOUR FUTURE

As Marblehead comes back to life this spring, so does the real estate market. Whether you’re considering selling, searching for your next home, or simply looking for thoughtful guidance, having the right representation matters.

W NE

MARBLEHEAD $699,000 Maggie Slavet (413) 222-0362

A

I CT

VE

CT

MARBLEHEAD $2,650,000 Brian Skidmore (617) 834-3227

G

NE

SALEM $639,000 Erica Corrigan (781) 258-5673

RENTALS

W

SALEM $799,000 Gary Blattberg Team (978) 882-4469

•$3,500.00 - Swampscott 1006 Paradise Rd unit PH Q, Mitch Levine - (781) 883-6460

•$2,625.00 - Marblehead 18 State Street U:1 Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

•$2,875.00 - Marblehead 36 Pond Street U: 2 Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

•$2,900.00 - Marblehead 1 Mugford Street U: 3 Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

•$3,200.00 - Marblehead 166 Pleasant Street U: 1 Levana Group - (978) 500-9751

•$5,200.00 - Marblehead 9 Gingerbread Hill U: 1 Lisa Gallagher - (781) 631-3746

•$2,700.00 - Lynn 358 Eastern Ave U: 2 Maggie Slave - (413) 222-0362

•$1,900.00 - Lynn 838 Western ave U: 2R Maggie Slavet - (413) 222-0362

•$2,550.00 - Lynn 484 Western Ave U: B4 Maggie Slavet - (413) 222-0362

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