04.01.2026 - Volume 4, Issue 19

Super JJ ‘saves’ Marblehead, celebrates with community

BY ALEKA KROITZSH

Marblehead witnessed true heroism Sunday, as 4-yearold JJ Weiss spent his MakeA-Wish day as a superhero taking on the villainous ‘Triple Z.’ After his day of missions, more than 400 people gathered at Seaside Park to celebrate JJ, who has been battling medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Marblehead Police presented JJ with a certificate of heroism, and Select Board member Jim Zisson proclaimed March 29 Superhero Day in honor of JJ.

“It was truly the best day of his life… We are so incredibly grateful for the entire town and for all the people and the businesses that were so generous with their time and helped bring this to life,” JJ’s mother Samantha Weiss said. She added that it was also “really special” for JJ’s siblings, Luke and Ellie, who also spent the day as superheroes.

‘Super JJ’ began as a character in bedtime stories and a family nickname but has turned into a meaningful part of JJ’s medical journey, according to Make-A-Wish Director of Marketing and Communications Heather

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Hundreds of people gathered in Marblehead Saturday, March 28, for the third national “No Kings” rally. The crowd lined Lafayette and Maple streets, waving signs and singing protest songs as cars drove past honking.

People said they came out to express frustration with national political developments and to find solidarity with others who share their concerns.

Select Board member: $4.6M needed to restore town-side cuts only BY LEIGH BLANDER

During what officials called a “Super Saturday” marathon meeting, the Finance Committee voted to approve all town and school budgets totaling $122.7 million, with at least 35-40 staff cuts, according to Finance Committee Chair Alex Goolsby. Select Board member Jim Zisson was the lone vote against the budget. Zisson said he visited several municipal buildings on March 27 to speak with employees whose jobs could be eliminated under the plan. He specifically objected to funding an unfilled clerk’s position in the Select Board’s office while cutting existing jobs.

» The latest installment in the Current’s series Overriding Considerations: Page 2

“I would prefer to save one job and not fill an unfilled position,” Zisson said.

School cuts

The school district has reduced its FY26 level-services budget by $4 million to help close the deficit. Superintendent John Robidoux already announced more than 14 full-time layoffs, and that is before he and

Peter Franklin, a Marblehead resident who teaches in Swampscott, said he is worried about the direction of the country.

“I’m a very concerned citizen, not only a high school teacher concerned about students, but also about the fact that our country is not in good shape right now,” Franklin said. He is particularly troubled by what he sees as erosion of core democratic principles.

“I’m concerned about the loss of constitutionally guaranteed rights. I’m dismayed over the loss of due process. I am dismayed at the fact that we don’t seem to have three branches of government anymore, that we have someone who is making decisions will- nilly, and he is not compassionate, he is not a steward. He is not a public servant.”

Franklin added that he had

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Jon Richmond and his pup, Aspen, joined George Freimarck at the “No Kings” rally in Marblehead Saturday.

Even as state aid rises, its role in Marblehead’s budget is shrinking

BY AKANKSHA GOYAL

This is the fourth article in the Current’s series, Overriding Considerations, exploring Marblehead’s budget crisis.

To read other stories, visit MarbleheadCurrent.org.

Marblehead is receiving more state aid than it did a decade ago, but local officials say the increases have done little to ease pressure on the town’s budget or meaningfully change its financial outlook.

The town’s largest flexible aid source, unrestricted general government aid, or UGGA, has increased steadily over the past decade, rising from about $1.09 million in fiscal year 2017 to roughly $1.42 million in fiscal year 2026.

Annual percentage gains have generally fallen in the low single digits, typically around 2% to 4%, with the most recent increase just 1.1%, or roughly $15,000 — an amount local officials say has little impact on a budget facing millions in rising costs.

“A minimal $15,000 increase in UGGA is helpful, but it doesn’t come close to addressing the scale of our budget pressures,” Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin wrote in an email to the Current. “If the community’s state aid funding were adjusted for inflation year over year, we would be in a better financial position today.”

Two main streams, two very different roles

State aid to municipalities comes through several channels, with two of the most significant being UGGA and Chapter 70 education funding.

While both have grown over time, they serve different

purposes and offer varying levels of flexibility.

UGGA is the primary source of general-purpose state funding, used to support services such as public safety, public works and town operations.

“That’s really the biggest aid program to fund … all the essential services that communities deliver,” said John Ouellette, senior executive at the Massachusetts Municipal Association.

That flexibility makes UGGA especially important for municipal budgets, where costs extend far beyond education.

But it is also the smaller of the two major aid streams.

In Marblehead, UGGA accounts for about $1.4 million in fiscal 2026, compared with more than $7 million in Chapter 70 funding.

UGGA: a shrinking share of municipal funding

Annual increases have averaged roughly $37,000 over the past decade, with the most recent increase — about $15,400 — representing one of the smallest gains in that period.

Over that time, UGGA has consistently accounted for just over 1% of the town’s total operating revenue — roughly 1.26% in fiscal 2026 — while property taxes make up more than three-quarters of the budget.

Even in years when aid increases, those gains have not consistently kept pace with inflation. In 2021, UGGA saw no increase while inflation rose by 4.7%, and in 2022, aid increased by 3.5% while inflation rose by 8%.

That imbalance means even steady increases in UGGA translate into relatively small changes in the town’s overall

financial position.

Statewide, the trend is similar.

Unrestricted general government aid has declined as a share of local funding, falling from about 11.5% of total local taxes in 2007 to roughly 5.4% in 2024, according to a recent Massachusetts Municipal Association report.

“What we’ve seen is a retraction of state support for those municipal services,” said Ouellette, adding that the program has never fully recovered from cuts during the Great Recession.

As a result, communities have become increasingly reliant on local revenue.

“Property taxes now are accounting for about 75% to 80% of municipal budgets,” Ouellette said.

Calls for reform, but no formula in place

Unlike Chapter 70, UGGA is not driven by a detailed formula based on enrollment or local need.

“It’s 16 years after UGGA was created,” said state Sen. Brendan Crighton, who represents Marblehead. “I think it is time for us to take a serious look at how to improve the current system.”

Local officials say that structure does not reflect current realities.

“I definitely do not feel the state’s funding formula reflects the realities of what cities and towns are going through now,” said Benjamin. “There needs to be a closer look at how the state is prioritizing distributing funds to the municipalities, and how the needs of cities and towns are weighed out as far as importance. Without regular review and adjustment, the financial challenges we face will continue.”

The structure of unrestricted local aid traces back to a decision made about 15 years ago, when the state merged two funding streams — Lottery Aid and Additional Assistance — without creating a new formula to guide UGGA, the combined program.

Lottery aid had been allocated based on municipal property wealth whereas Additional Assistance originally relied on a needs-based system, which was later abandoned in fiscal 1992, with funding largely level-funded or cut in the years that followed.

When the two programs were consolidated, those patterns were effectively carried forward. Since then, UGGA is set each year based on the growth in state budget revenues.

A significant portion of unrestricted aid remains tied to lottery revenue. But newer forms of gambling, such as casinos and sports betting, return a smaller share to the state than the lottery, which was historically fully directed to local aid, according to Phineas Baxandall of the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center.

“As the lottery has to share with these other kinds of gambling, so is local aid having to share out its part,” he said.

In 2019, Massachusetts overhauled its education funding formula after a commission found it no longer matched districts’ needs. A comparable review, lawmakers say, is overdue for unrestricted aid.

State Rep. Jenny Armini, who also represents Marblehead, wrote in an email to the Current:

“I don’t blame cities and towns for turning to the state

Assistant Superintendent Mike Pfifferling identify the final $1.5 million in reductions.

“Any further reductions in our school personnel will affect students, between classroom sizes, services that we’re able to provide, resources that are available, and safety and security start getting affected,” Robidoux told the Finance Committee.

“And that’s not hyperbole.”

Library cuts

Facing a $700,000 budget cut from the town for fiscal year 2027, leaders at the Abbot Public Library said Saturday they may be able to keep the building open on a drastically reduced schedule — about 25 hours a week.

Director Kimberly Grad said it might make more sense to close the library at the end of November. She plans to discuss that option with the library’s board of directors.

Grad called the cut “the most significant threat to our institutional continuity” in the library’s nearly 150-year history.

The library will almost certainly lose its certification, meaning Marblehead residents will no longer be part of the North of Boston Library Exchange and would not be able to check out books at other North Shore libraries.

Override plans

Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer is expected to present a tiered override proposal for town departments on April 8.

The proposed tiers include:

» Could be structured as a oneor three-year solution

Tier 2: Stabilize and build

Includes Tier 1 plus: Full restoration of cuts

Building maintenance funding

» Public safety and Department of Public Works staffing

» Salary study adjustments

Tier 3: Invest and improve

Includes Tiers 1 and 2 plus: Small capital investments

» Equipment, infrastructure and buildings

» Focus on long-term improvement

Trash override

Tier 1: Partial restore » Restores a significant portion of cuts Includes town and school services

At Town Meeting, voters will face a second override request of about $2 million to fund curbside recycling and trash pickup.

If that override fails, the Board of Health will institute a fee for pickup. With a 3% opt-out rate, Health Director Andrew Petty projected the curbside fee at about $281 per household.

Override impact

Select Board member Moses Grader presented a budget analysis March 27 projecting that $4.6 million would be needed to restore the cuts on the town side of the budget alone. That figure includes the trash override. That would amount to about $608 in new taxes for the median household in the first year.

According to Grader, restoring this year’s town-side cuts would cost:

$857,633 for Abbot Public Library

» $307,975 for the Planning and Community Development Office

$134,691 for Public Works

$126,648 for the Finance Department

» $122,554 for Public Buildings

» $118,171 for the Cemetery Department

$76,201 for the Council on Aging

$65,482 for the Police Department

» $64,261 for the Fire Department

Robidoux and Pfifferling are expected to present the schools’ override amount and plan April 8. Those figures will be combined with the town-side proposal to determine the total override request to be presented at Town Meeting.

Ultimately, voters at Town Meeting, which begins May 4, will decide whether to approve the town’s budget and any overrides.

Davidson. When JJ undergoes procedures, Super JJ goes on missions to ‘save the day.’ His preschool teacher even brought the character into the classroom, telling a story in which Super JJ takes on cancer as the villain.

“JJ has shown the kind of bravery that inspires a whole town,” Marblehead Police Chief Dennis King said in an address to the crowd.

With the help of Make-A-Wish, JJ embodied Super JJ for the day. NBC10 Boston produced a news alert which the Weiss family played on their TV that morning, alerting the family to Triple Z, a ‘villain’ at large in Marblehead who puts people to sleep with evil lullabies. The Weiss family left the house in a white stretch limo, provided by Make-A-Wish, to embark on a day of superhero missions. Samantha Weiss said JJ’s face “lit up” and he waved out the window when he saw a crowd of neighbors cheering him on with signs.

“It’s really a wonderful showing of community,” said Jill Meyer, a family friend of the Weiss’.

The Weiss family then headed to Marblehead Outfitters, where JJ and his siblings put on their costumes and became Super JJ, Super Luke and Super Ellie. Ana Penuelas, owner of Alterations and Design Studio in Marblehead, spent a week creating their costumes and helped them get suited up.

The three superheroes then went on missions at Mud Puddle Toys, Shubie’s and Chandler Hovey, where they awoke people who Triple Z had put to sleep. Finally, the Weiss family arrived at the Marblehead lighthouse, where Super JJ would take on Triple Z face-to-face.

JJ and his family walked

participated in protests decades ago and felt compelled to return to the streets.

“Having been actively involved in the 70s in protests that were happening then I couldn’t, in good conscience not be out here,” he said.

Ruth Grover, who lives outside Washington, D.C. and was visiting family in Marblehead, explained why she was there.

“The horror and injustice of what’s going on today in the United States,” she said. Grover carried a sign reading, “Dad fought facism in Europe. We will fight it here” with a black-and-white photo of her dad in World War II.

Marblehead resident Debbie Cooper tries to attend weekly anti-Trump standouts in town.

“It helps me with my anger. I’m angry about the war … the attack on voting rights … you name it.”

Margaret Keyes came from

through a crowd of almost 100 people who cheered and held signs of support. JJ threw a net over Triple Z, and Marblehead Police arrived, sirens blasting, to put Triple Z in handcuffs.

“We’re so impressed and inspired by everything JJ and the family have done, and we want to support them in any way we can,” said Marblehead resident Adrian Hartline who was at the lighthouse with his children who attended the same school as JJ.

Samantha Weiss said Make-AWish had done a “great job” of preparing her children for the day.

She said this was “real” for her children, and “Super JJ was fully in action.” To prepare, they met with JJ’s Super Trainer, Colin Vigneault from Make-AWish at Marblehead Parenting

and District Fitness, where JJ practiced superhero poses and methods for capturing ‘villains.’ Vigneault joined JJ on his

superhero missions throughout the day.

“To see this kind of magic live is a gift,” Vigneault said at the

celebration.

Festivities were complete with bubble blowers, jugglers and speeches by Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island

CEO Sean Holleran, King, Sgt.

Timothy Morley, Zisson. JJ becoming a superhero marked Make-A-Wish’s 11,000th granted wish.

“There were so many familiar faces and so many people we’ve never met. I’m so grateful for them all… It was the most remarkable day,” Samantha Weiss said.

As of the following morning, JJ and his siblings had not stopped talking about it, she added. JJ sported a Super JJ hat and T-shirt to school on Monday and ran straight to his teachers to tell them that he had defeated Triple Z.

Salem to protest.

“The Constitution starts with ‘We the people,’ and that really needs to be just repeated over and over and over again for the generations that’s going to come

after us,” Keyes said. “We have to leave something for them. I mean, I’m 73 years old, and I’ve seen a lot, but I want the next generation to have a great life, a safe life.”

Several people brought their

More home.Morevalue More peaceofmind

Whether you’re dreaming of asecond home planning forretirement,

dogs to the rally, including John Richmond, who came with his dachshund, Aspen.

“I’m mortified to go into Boston and have someone plow into the crowd,” he said. “That’s

the reason I protest here.” For many, the rally served as both a political statement and a chance to connect with neighbors and fellow residents concerned about the future.

COURTESY PHOTO / JIM MURPHY

Hundreds of people come out for latest “No Kings” rally in Marblehead.

CURRENT PHOTOS / GREY COLLINS

Superhero JJ is surrounded by friends and family at Chandler Hovey Park after he helps capture the villain Triple Z.

Marblehead Police arrest Triple Z with Superhero JJ’s help at Chandler Hovey Park on Sunday as part of a community-wide Make-A-Wish event.

Opinion

EDITORIAL

End of an era

After 15 years of leading MHTV, Executive Director Joan Goloboy has retired, and we are taking this moment to both recognize and thank Joan for her many contributions to local access public television in Marblehead.

Cable television came to town in the mid-’80s, with Continental Cablevision being the first of many cable companies to provide such service to homeowners looking to abandon their roof-top antennae. From the beginning — as part of their franchise licenses with the town — cable companies have dedicated at least one channel for public, education and government access by providing a locally based cable television studio.

Just as Continental was starting operations here, Goloboy moved to Marblehead after spending time in New York City performing in off-Broadway musicals. She told The Current she became intrigued to learn about editing video when she arrived here, and she availed herself of editing courses being offered by Continental to local residents.

The cable company quickly recognized her talents, and before long it hired Goloboy to cover local government meetings. Thus began her career in cable television.

Eventually, Goloboy left Marblehead’s local office, but she continued to rise in the ranks of the cable television world.

In 2009, the operation and management of Marblehead’s public access cable studio transitioned from being under the control of the cable companies, and the Select Board founded a new nonprofit corporation with funding for the studio coming from the cable company contracts with the town. There was the need to find an executive director to oversee this new studio, and after diligent search Goloboy was selected in 2011 from a field of candidates to assume its leadership. The rest is history.

Goloboy took it upon herself to forge lasting and meaningful relationships with Marblehead leaders in government, education, business, history and the arts, to name but a few. Under her leadership, Goloboy developed her MHTV team. Over time, she spearheaded the transition from analog to digital video. She increased citizen, government and business connections within the community, and she drove the development of new hyperlocal programs to inform and entertain cable subscribers.

Goloboy and her team modernized the cable studio that now is located at the Veterans Middle School, upgrading the equipment, redesigning the studio and office space, expanding programming production, installing video servers to facilitate 24-7 playback and redesigning the MHTV website to make it heavily video centric.

But wait, that’s not all! Goloboy encouraged the use of the studio’s platform to promote local nonprofit initiatives; to grow the volunteer, donor and community producer base; to implement community partnerships with local businesses; to grow a robust YouTube channel for live MHS sports; and to reach a larger audience through daily video email newsletters. Under her leadership, MHTV and its team have won countless national and regional awards from the Alliance for Community Media, having been recognized nationally for “overall excellence” 12 times and regionally 10 times. This is quite an accomplishment for which we applaud Goloboy and her team. These are challenging times for cable television — many subscribers are “cutting the cord” — and the landscape is everchanging. During Goloboy’s tenure as executive director, MHTV has been able to adapt to these changes, and we at The Current are hopeful that her successor will meet these challenges and continue to provide Marblehead’s cable subscribers with the passion and competence we have come to expect from MHTV under Goloboy’s many years of service.

Thank you, Joan, for all your hard work as steward of our local cable television journalism, and may you enjoy your wellearned retirement. We’ll see you around town!

GUEST COLUMN

Why Marblehead’s budget feels so confusing this year

What’s driving the numbers, and what the choices actually mean

BY MARGARET BACON

There’s a growing sense that something doesn’t quite add up.

Residents are hearing about potential cuts, fewer services, higher costs and even the possibility of closing the library.

At the same time, people see potholes that haven’t been fixed and are aware of recent high-profile expenses and projects that can be difficult to square with proposed reductions.

That reaction is understandable. But it misses a key part of what’s actually happening.

On March 28, the municipal and school budgets totaling $122.7 million were approved by the Finance Committee. This approval reflects what can be funded within current tax limits. It includes at least 35 to 40 job cuts, along with other service reductions, including the potential closure of Abbot Public Library, unless an override is approved.

While the library recently underwent a major renovation, those costs were largely capital investments. The ongoing budget reflects the cost of staffing and operating the facility each year, and maintaining required service levels to meet state certification standards.

Other departments, including public works, public safety and administrative functions, also face ongoing cost demands in maintaining baseline service levels.

Early estimates suggest the municipal portion of the override could be approximately $4.6 million. That total includes the cost of curbside trash pickup, which is expected to

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Splitting the budget pain 50/50

To the editor:

I’ve read with interest the articles and letters about how to balance Marblehead’s 2027 budget. I can understand the various arguments from the point of view from which the various people have brought them. And despite its critical importance I can also understand why the school budget is in the spotlight: It is the biggest pile of money.

I enjoyed Seamus Hourihan’s point of view where he wants to spread the pain across the board and have each entity bear their share of the burden with his proposed 7.4% across the board cuts.

Having started and run a business in both good and bad times I can appreciate how hard cutting 7.4% across the board is, and yet at times it has to be done. Having operated with inflation as high as 12.5%, one appreciated that even though business could be slow, prices (read revenue) had to be increased.

Marblehead is in a similar situation: Its revenue is restrained due to Proposition 2.5. And despite what one may read about the rate of inflation the actual operating costs to run a town are increasing by greater than 2.5%. These costs include increases in health care, legacy payments, regulations, technological advancements, handling of special needs students, etc. A satisfactory balanced budget cannot

be presented as a separate, optional component.

The school budget will be presented on April 8. That presentation is expected to outline the difference between the Finance Committeeapproved budget and what school officials say is needed to maintain services, effectively defining their portion of the override request. Together, the combined override could fall in the range of roughly $6 to $7 million, with final figures still being developed.

What’s driving this Marblehead’s current situation reflects a long-standing pattern of rising costs and limited revenue growth.

For many years, taxes have remained relatively stable. Under state law, property tax revenue can increase by 2.5% per year, plus a small amount from new construction and property improvements, unless voters approve an override. Marblehead has generally stayed within that limit over the past two decades.

Major expenses have been rising faster than inflation. Health insurance costs have increased by high single digits in many years, while fuel, utilities, pensions and construction costs have added steady pressure.

Many of these costs are not optional. State and federal requirements have expanded over time, including accessibility standards, environmental regulations, public records obligations and growing technology and cybersecurity needs. These add to the cost of delivering the same services. Infrastructure adds another layer. Much of Marblehead’s infrastructure

be achieved by just cutting without seriously degrading our schools, services and properties that are vital to maintain Marblehead as it should be.

Thus, the fiscal situation needs to be attacked from both directions: 50% revenue increases (override and fees) and 50% budget cuts, or some other balance TBD. Such a strategy spreads the pain between those that serve the town as well as the taxpayers (many are both).

Town officials have been criticized for not properly presenting or selling the needed revenue increases and/or cost cuts. A 50-50 split between revenue increases and cost cutting is easier to sell than one or the other.

Marblehead’s tax rate is .86%. That is well below MA’s average rate of 1.04%.

An analysis in Marblehead Current from Matt Hooks noted Marblehead’s property tax rate compared to 17 other communities comparable in terms of income, our rate was the lowest of all! When Marblehead taxes were shown as a percentage of residential income we were 16th of 17. So, while taxes always hurt it does not appear we are overburdened to live in such a community.

Looking into the schools and town departments it can appear that expenses could be lowered. That is an important discussion to have as efficeincy is necessary but let the department heads make these cuts.

As Matt said, and I agree, “I believe in

Marblehead’s current situation reflects a long-standing pattern of rising costs and limited revenue growth.

was developed generations ago, reflecting its history as an early coastal settlement. Roads, seawalls, stormwater systems, harbor facilities and public buildings now require continuous maintenance, especially in a marine environment where saltwater and weather accelerate wear.

Marblehead also faces structural limits on how much additional revenue it can generate.

Most of Marblehead’s roughly 2,700 acres are already developed or otherwise constrained, leaving little room for additional tax revenue from new construction.

The tax base is overwhelmingly residential, with roughly 95% of property value coming from residential property and only about 4% to 5% from commercial uses. Compared to many other communities, Marblehead has a smaller share of commercial properties. Commercial properties use municipal services, but they do not directly contribute to school enrollment, which is a primary driver of school-related costs. As a result, they can provide revenue that is not directly tied to those costs.

Together, these factors limit how much additional revenue can be generated.

A large share of the municipal budget is made up of salaries, benefits and essential functions such as police and

Marblehead, and I want it to be the best version of itself.” This proposition can and must be sold.

Fiscal responsibility is just not reducing, its balancing revenue with needed costs.

Robbie Doyle Norman Street

Marblehead is at a crossroads

To the editor:

Marblehead is at a crossroads.

In the weeks and months ahead, residents will be asked to make decisions that will shape the future of the town’s services, schools, and long-term stability. With the Select Board putting forward comprehensive, multi-year override options, this is an important moment for the entire community.

In this important moment, we want to introduce For Marblehead, a community coalition with a mission of strengthening our town’s municipal services, schools and infrastructure through sustainable funding, responsible policies and good governance.

We believe this town is worth investing in and we hope you do, too. We support thoughtful override options that are comprehensive, accountable and designed to deliver real, tangible improvements for

BACON,

The ‘Great Wealth Transfer’ will favor women. Are you prepared?

BY EMILY PROMISE

Over the past several decades, women have made remarkable progress in education, careers and leadership. However, when it comes to personal finances, many still tend to take on a more passive role.

That means knowing:

» Where your accounts are held

The reality is this: financial confidence doesn’t come from knowing everything. It comes from being engaged, asking the right questions and having a clear understanding of where you stand.

Whether you are single, married, divorced or widowed, your financial life deserves your attention.

Clarity creates confidence

One of the most important steps in financial planning is understanding your current picture.

fire protection, public works and basic operations, leaving limited room to reduce costs without affecting staffing and service levels.

That limited flexibility has been building for years.

Residents have seen it in delayed repairs, reduced staffing and postponed maintenance. These measures help manage costs in the short term, but they do not resolve the structural imbalance between recurring revenues and recurring expenses. What is different now is the scale. The current budget includes dozens of job cuts, bringing those pressures into clearer view. That is the current baseline the town is working from.

Some recent expenses have drawn attention, including changes in school leadership, legal and personnel-related costs, and major capital needs such as building repairs. These are real and sometimes significant. In some cases, costs may be partially offset by insurance, but a meaningful share still falls on the municipal budget. Situations like this arise in many communities, and Marblehead is not immune.

» How your assets are invested

What you own versus what you owe

» How your income supports your lifestyle

In many households, one partner naturally takes the lead on finances. While that can be efficient, it can also create a gap in understanding. We often see that during major life transitions, such as a divorce or the loss of a spouse, this lack of visibility can quickly become overwhelming.

Clarity today creates confidence for tomorrow.

Women and the ‘Great Wealth Transfer’

What makes this moment particularly important is that we are in the midst of one of the largest financial shifts in history.

Over the coming decades, an estimated $120+ trillion will

Many residents also support the community through local nonprofits that contribute to schools, public spaces, health, arts, and the environment. Their contributions are meaningful and often underappreciated. But they are not a substitute for core public funding. These organizations enhance local resources, but they do not change what it costs to operate essential services.

Why it can feel confusing

Part of the confusion comes from how the budget is discussed. Rising costs for health insurance, pensions and other required obligations affect both municipal services and the schools, reducing what is available across the board.

Spending on municipal services and spending on schools are often treated as separate, even though they are funded from the same tax base. Looking at them together shows where the pressure is actually coming from. A dollar spent in one area affects what is available in another.

The full picture is difficult to see in one place. While the information is public, including through the Finance Department’s Open Finance page, it is spread across multiple

residents across schools, public works, public safety and other essential services. Done right, this is an opportunity not just to stabilize, but to strengthen our town for the long term.

At the same time, we believe any new funding must be paired with clear accountability and oversight, so residents can have confidence in how resources are used and what results they deliver.

Our goal is to help residents understand the choices ahead, participate in the decisions to Come and ensure this is a constructive, fact-based community conversation.

This is a positive campaign, and there is room for everyone in it. Whether you want to volunteer, donate, host conversations, help spread information or simply stay informed, there is a role for you.

We believe that Marblehead will be strongest when people come

transfer between generations, often referred to as “The Great Wealth Transfer.” A significant portion of that wealth will land in the hands of women.

Roughly $54 trillion is expected to pass to surviving spouses — and over 95% of those recipients are women An additional $40–$50 trillion is expected to pass to daughters and younger generations of women By 2030, women in the U.S. are projected to control $30–34 trillion in assets This is a fundamental change in who controls wealth, makes financial decisions and shapes the future of investing.

Importantly, much of this shift is linked to longevity. Women generally outlive men, often leading them to become the primary financial decision-maker later in life.

Three practical steps to take now

No matter your stage of life, there are a few foundational

steps that can have a meaningful impact:

» 1. Know what you own.

Take an inventory of your accounts: bank accounts, retirement plans, investment portfolios, real estate and insurance policies. Equally important is understanding the purpose of each.

Understand your protection plan. Ensure you have the right safeguards in place: life insurance, where appropriate core estate documents » 2. Have all passwords for key loyalty programs and financial accounts.

3. Be part of the conversation. Attend meetings and ask questions. A strong financial plan should feel clear and intentional — not distant or unclear.

Planning for a longer horizon

Women often experience more financial transitions

It is not a question of whether there will be change. It is a question of how that change happens.

documents and formats, making it difficult to understand what different funding levels would mean in practice.

This year’s override proposal is more complex than in the past. Instead of a single up-or-down vote on one number, residents are likely to be asked to consider different funding levels over time, each tied to corresponding service outcomes.

For a $7 million override in Marblehead, the impact on an individual tax bill depends on a home’s assessed value. Based on the town’s total property valuation, the override would add roughly $0.70 per $1,000 of assessed value to the tax rate. For a home assessed at $1 million, that translates to an increase of about $700 per year in property taxes. Homes assessed at higher or lower values would see that amount rise or fall proportionally.

You can estimate the impact on your own property by using the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s Tax Impact Calculator.

A multi-year approach can soften the initial impact by phasing in the increase over

together around shared facts, shared responsibility and a shared commitment to the town we all love.

Join us. Visit www. ForMarblehead.org, email us at info@formarblehead. org, or follow us on social media at www.Facebook.com/ ForMarblehead and www. instagram.com/ForMarblehead. Kate Thomson (Bubier Road) and Matt Hooks (Nanapashment Street) Co-Chairs, For Marblehead

A call for ‘principled governance,’ not ‘symbolic resolutions’

To the editor: On behalf of the Marblehead Republican Town Committee, we welcome open discussion, but believe the Current’s March 25 editorial, “In abnormal times, an affirmation of basic

rights” and Article 40 itself are built less on genuine threats to constitutional rights and more on political opposition to the current administration.

Our founding principles— individual liberty, limited government and the rule of law—are not under siege. Framing them as endangered creates a narrative of crisis that is not supported by reality. In practice, Article 40 appears to be a response to political disagreement, not an actual erosion of rights.

Core freedoms like speech, assembly and an independent judiciary remain firmly intact. Suggesting otherwise risks turning universally accepted principles into partisan tools. At the same time, concerns about government overreach are being applied selectively, while issues such as bureaucratic expansion, uneven enforcement of laws and border security are overlooked.

Marblehead’s history calls for principled, lawful selfgovernance, not symbolic

than their male counterparts, career pauses, caregiving responsibilities and longer life expectancies. While that is something to celebrate, it also means financial plans often need to support a longer retirement, extended healthcare needs and a more durable income strategy. When you layer this longevity with the scale of wealth being transferred, the importance of proactive planning becomes even clearer.

Today, we are witnessing a profound financial shift, one where women are increasingly at the center of wealth, decision-making and long-term planning. Taking ownership of your finances is not just about preparation, it’s about participation in that future.

Emily Promise, CEO and financial advisor at ShorePoint Advisory Group (formerly Blakely Financial), is a Marblehead native and the financial columnist for the Current.

about how money has been spent and how decisions are made going forward. Trust matters, especially when the stakes are this visible.

several years. Once fully implemented, the higher tax level becomes the new baseline and continues in future years.

What the choices actually are

At its core, the choice is straightforward: raise additional revenue or reduce services.

Every proposal is a variation of one of those two options.

The recently approved budget reflects what can be funded within current tax limits and relies on reductions rather than new revenue. The override proposal represents an alternative, allowing the community to maintain more of its current service levels at a higher cost.

It is not a question of whether there will be change. It is a question of how that change happens.

If additional revenue is approved, services can largely be maintained, at a higher cost. If it is not, the changes will take the form of reduced staffing, fewer services and continued deferral of maintenance.

It is reasonable for residents to expect clear communication

resolutions driven by political sentiment. Claims that our institutions are failing or under extraordinary threat are highly contested; our system continues to function as designed, with active courts, protected speech and lawful elections.

We support peaceful protest and civic engagement. However, the “No Kings” and anti-ICE protests referenced in the editorial highlight a deeper concern: When demonstrations are framed in opposition to law enforcement or to the enforcement of duly enacted laws, they move beyond simple civic expression especially when they invoke violence against federal officers. There is a clear and important distinction between exercising constitutional rights and promoting positions that undermine respect for the rule of law.

Ultimately, Article 40 reads as a political statement rooted in opposition to the current administration, rather than a

At the same time, it is important to separate frustration over specific decisions from the larger financial reality. One is about accountability. The other is about sustainability.

For many years, Marblehead has maintained a high level of services without significantly increasing revenue. That balance is now under pressure.

There isn’t a version of this where everything stays the same. The question is what level of services people in Marblehead want to live with, from continued reductions to maintaining the current level of services or restoring and improving them, and what they are willing to pay to make that happen.

Margaret Bacon is the founder and senior editor of VeryCoolFacts. com and Safe Harbor Media Group, a scalable educational media platform built around verified, insight-driven storytelling. Her work explores history, science, culture and the enduring patterns of human behavior that shape how we think and act today. She is based in Marblehead.

necessary reaffirmation of rights. If the goal is unity, it should rise above partisan framing and reflect a balanced view of both rights and responsibilities. This is not a moment of constitutional crisis, it is a moment of political disagreement. We encourage voters to recognize that distinction and consider Article 40 accordingly.

Emily DeJoy Riverside Drive

‘Let us old geezers count’ in protecting freedoms

To the editor: I refer to the editorial in the Marblehead Current of March 25. It quoted President Obama when he attended the funeral for Rev. Jesse Jackson. The end of the quote was “… if we don’t stand up, no one else will.”

Rec & Parks: No more trash pickup at 187 barrels in public areas to save $45K

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Facing an additional $45,000 in budget cuts for fiscal 2027, the Recreation and Parks Department will stop collecting trash from 187 barrels in parks and other public spaces. Instead, the town would rely on a carry-in/carry-out trash policy for those areas.

Rec & Parks Supervisor Jaime Bloch said last week that eliminating routine trash pickup is the most feasible reduction in an already lean budget that oversees numerous parks and facilities across town. The plan would allow Rec & Parks to eliminate one currently unfilled groundskeeper position.

“Most of the trash that we pick up… is people’s home trash which should not be there, business trash that should not be there and dog poop which is not supposed to be in there,” Bloch said.

Rec & Parks Commissioner Chris Kennedy pushed back on the plan, saying it will lead to litter around town.

“It would be a real disservice to the town,” Kennedy said.

Commission members discussed possible alternatives, including reducing the

The Current welcomes 150–200-word submissions to News in Brief. Send yours to info@ marbleheadnews.org.

Epstein Hillel School awarded security grant

The state has awarded $31,200 to the Epstein Hillel School on Community Road for improvements to security and protect measures.

number of barrels or creating sponsorships for barrels in business districts.

Despite tight funding, Bloch said recreation programs generate significant revenue for the town’s general fund through beach, float and park permits, as well as kayak rack rentals.

In fiscal 2025, the department returned about $268,253 in local receipts to the town, officials said, with projections suggesting that amount could increase this year.

“EHS is very grateful to the Commonwealth for making these funds available,” said Michael Slater, director of finance and operations at Epstein Hillel School. “This grant allows us to continue to provide onsite security — an important step in ensuring our students, staff and families feel safe and supported during these challenging times.” Open Hours with MPD

“I think this is a great profit center for the town,” said Commissioner Rossana Ferrante.

Still, Bloch said the department has been largely level-funded for years while costs continue to rise.

“The cost of everything has gone up — the cost of paint, the cost of grass seeds, fertilizer, you name it. This is the leanest, and we have to be really smart with our dollars to be able to stretch them.”

Commission members also discussed developing a

long-term “full-service” budget to better illustrate what the department could provide if funding were available.

“Nobody in this room knows what it’s like to be full to have a full-service budget, because we haven’t had one in a long time,” said Commissioner Karin Ernst.

Such a plan could help the department prepare if voters approve a potential override to address Marblehead’s broader fiscal shortfall.

“If… a huge override happens,

we want to make sure that Rec & Parks gets what we need to get correct, to make sure that we are giving our town the best service that we can,” Ernst said. In other business, the commission approved permits for the annual Devereux Beach Carnival, sponsored by the Marblehead High School junior class. The carnival will run May 7-10.

The commission also heard from residents Chris Fields and Rick Smyers, who requested permission to install several semi-permanent structures at the Green Street bike park.

Proposed additions include a shed to store tools and supplies, a bike mechanic tool stand donated by Marblehead Bike Shop owner Dan Shuman that would be anchored to the ground, and two benches Fields has built that could be placed in the shade.

Fields also asked about installing a temporary portable toilet during the spring and summer to accommodate campers.

The commission supported the proposals and advised Smyers and Fields to contact the town’s Building Department about next steps.

counselor Beth Israel Lahey Health/Marblehead Police Department licensed

mental health clinician Gina Rabbit is available for walk-in hours or a meet-and-greet, offering resources for residents. Rabbit will be in the Marblehead Room. Check in at the reference desk.

Rhythm and Clues

You can support the Marblehead Council on Aging at “Rhythm and Clues,” a fundraising event, April 30, 5:30-8:30

p.m. at the Masonic Hall, 62 Pleasant St. Enjoy hosted trivia, appetizers, a cash bar, live music and a silent auction.

Funds raised support the following: entertainment and special events, excursions and expanded nutrition programs.

Advance tickets can be purchased for $25 at the COA April 7, 8, 14 and 15, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m.. or online at https://bit.ly/fmcoa2026. Tickets will be $30 at the door.

This event is sponsored by the Friends of Marblehead Council on Aging. Contact fmcoa536@ gmail.com with questions.

Marblehead Police want you Go behind the badge and learn about the Marblehead Police Department from the inside. MPD is offering its eight-week course Thursdays, 6-9 p.m., starting April 23. Attendees will meet local officers, detectives and staff and learn how operations work. They’ll observe a real trial and tour the Middleton House of Corrections. The course is free. Learn more and register at marbleheadma.gov/ citizen-police-academy.

Marblehead Museum annual meeting

for relief from the incredible fiscal strain they are under.

UGGA was created 17 years ago. It has no formula. It’s a baseline amount that has been increased moderately over time,” she wrote. “It is certainly reasonable to look at UGGA with an eye toward reform, including funding amounts and how they are distributed.”

Chapter 70: larger, but restricted

Chapter 70 funding represents a much larger share of state aid for most communities.

In Marblehead, the funding has increased more significantly than UGGA over the past decade, particularly following the state’s 2019 Student Opportunity Act.

Armini said recent increases have also been driven in part by the Fair Share Amendment, which directs revenue from the state’s surtax on high earners toward education and transportation.

Per-pupil Chapter 70 funding has increased significantly, rising from $30 in fiscal 2022 to $150 in fiscal 2026, contributing to higher overall aid levels for communities like Marblehead, she said.

While Chapter 70 aid has grown by an average of about 2.5% annually over the last decade, increases did not keep pace with inflation in several recent years, including a fouryear stretch from 2021 through 2024.

Although funding has rebounded more recently — with increases outpacing inflation in fiscal 2025 — local officials say those gains have not eased broader budget pressures.

Ouellette noted that while education funding is separate from unrestricted aid, the two

are closely linked in practice.

“Many communities are using some of that state aid under unrestricted general government aid to also help pay for education services,” he said.

That dynamic plays out locally as well.

“While the Student Opportunity Act has improved allocations, the underlying formula [for Chapter 70] still creates inequities,” said Benjamin. “Smaller towns like Marblehead are disproportionately affected, which means a growing share of essential costs continues to fall directly on the town.”

For municipal officials trying to balance a budget that includes police, fire, public works, facilities and other services, that dynamic has broader consequences.

“The state should be fully supporting public education, but … communities like Marblehead are being forced into difficult trade-offs,” Benjamin said. “We shouldn’t be choosing between teachers, students and the town services residents depend on every day, yet limited resources and rising expenses leave us with exactly those choices.”

Crighton said lawmakers are hearing similar concerns.

“We’ve heard from certain districts that need more

resources as well,” he said. “We do believe Chapter 70 should be closely examined as well as UGGA.”

Other aid categories provide targeted support, but limited flexibility

The town also receives funding through a patchwork of other accounts, including charter school tuition reimbursements, veterans’ benefits, reimbursements for elderly tax exemptions and public library aid.

Together, these categories add hundreds of thousands of dollars in state funding each year, but do little to ease pressure on municipal budgets because they are largely restricted and designed to offset specific expenses.

Several additional state aid categories listed on the town’s Cherry Sheet — including regional transportation, smart growth and payments for stateowned land — show no funding for Marblehead because the town does not meet the criteria for those programs.

Limited relief amid rising costs

On paper, state aid to Marblehead has increased over time, with total receipts rising from about $7.1 million in fiscal 2017 to more than $9.2 million in fiscal 2026.

But after required assessments — including charter school tuition and other statemandated charges — the town’s net state aid is significantly lower, reflecting the amount actually available to support the budget.

At the same time, municipalities are facing rising costs across nearly every category of spending with limited ability to control them.

“I certainly recognize that municipalities across the Commonwealth are dealing with higher costs due to healthcare, inflation … and just the cost of doing business,” Crighton said.

Ouellette said municipalities are particularly vulnerable to rising health insurance and energy costs because of their reliance on large workforces and extensive infrastructure.

“The pain they feel from [cost increases] is really pronounced,” he said, adding that the financial strain is magnified compared to what residents face in their own household budgets. “When health insurance is going up 10, 12, 15, in some cases 20% in a single year … where are you going to turn?”

With few options to raise revenue, even steady increases in aid have not been enough to close the gap. As a result, communities are relying more heavily on property taxes — which already account for the majority of municipal revenue — to fund core services.

“We see more and more often communities having to go back to the taxpayer through a Proposition 2 1/2 override, as well as debt exclusions,” Crighton said.

Uncertain outlook for change

Local officials say the current trajectory of state aid is unlikely to shift in a way that meaningfully alters Marblehead’s

budget outlook.

“Strong local governments strengthen the entire state. But without meaningful investment in municipalities, the state will continue to see communities struggle to meet growing demands,” Benjamin said.

“Unfortunately, that level of support simply isn’t reflected in current funding practices.”

Lawmakers say they recognize the strain but point to broader fiscal constraints that limit room for major increases in aid.

“I think it’s going to be a very challenging budget year,” Crighton said.

That challenge is driven in part by federal policy changes, including potential cuts to Medicaid funding.

“For Massachusetts, the biggest hole is the roughly $3.5 billion that will be taken out of our health care system every year,” Armini said. “That’s simply too big to fill.”

Crighton said those pressures could limit increases in local aid.

“I think we’ll be able to maintain levels of funding, but… we’re dealing with a great deal of uncertainty as a country,” he said.

Both lawmakers also pointed to a November ballot measure to reduce the state income tax from 5% to 4%, which could further reduce available revenue.

“That’s $5 billion annually that we will not have, and you’ll be looking at some serious cuts and serious impacts to local aid,” Crighton said.

Armini echoed that concern, writing that the consequences would be “problematic in this climate.”

Despite those challenges, legislators say reforms to programs like UGGA remain under discussion.

“We are committed to working closely with municipalities to make some of these reforms and to try to bring more resources for them,” Crighton said.

I quote now a statement from a German pastor who originally supported the Nazis in the early 1930s but was later imprisoned in a concentration camp and survived.

“As the Nazis arrested the communists, I remained quiet.

I wasn’t a communist. As the Nazis locked up the social democrats, I remained quiet. I wasn’t a social democratic. As the Nazis arrested the labor union organizers, I remained quiet. I wasn’t a union member. As the Nazis arrested me, there wasn’t anybody who could protest.” My letter is addressed specifically to seniors in my age group (65 and up to infinity).

I can’t attend rallies, but I can protest and support in other ways. I donate to organizations who reflect my values and thinking. I do this online from the comfort of my home. For political purposes I support commoncause. org and moveon.org by signing petitions and donating money. In view of the dangers facing our country today from the Trump party, I won’t sit back and say I am too old. I am going to do whatever I can to make sure that what the German pastor said does not apply to me. Let us old geezers count in helping to keep our freedoms. I am sure there are a lot of loved ones for whom you want to protect their futures.

Walter Haug

Highland Terrace

Cutting of your nose to spite your face

There is an old expression: Cutting off your nose to spite your face. That is exactly

what this town’s proposed budget does. The roles of town planner, grant coordinator and sustainability director not only enhance many aspects of our town, they fight back against climate catastrophe, find ways to maintain shared resources and bring in much needed funds!

Between them Donna Cotterell and Logan Casey have brought hundreds of thousands of dollars to this town for both necessary and enhancing projects. None of that is possible without their positions. What are we thinking? Do we live in a community or individual bunkers, each with its own trash collection, portable power stations, generators and cement mixers to repair roads? It is time to dig deep into our pockets and pay the taxes that will allow town services and personnel to remain vital and recommit ourselves to the concept of community.

Judith Black Prospect Street

Ideology vs. common sense

To the editor:

“It is usually futile to try to talk facts and analysis to people who are enjoying a sense of moral superiority in their ignorance.” –Thomas Sowell I love Thomas Sowell. He’s a brilliant man. Ninety-five years old and still cogent. For anyone on the Left who doesn’t know who he is that’s OK. He’s a Black, conservative/libertarian author and economist who supports free markets and individual liberty and is against affirmative action, so he was kicked out of your liberal, woke clubhouse a long time ago. I could easily just write 20 Thomas Sowell quotes here and sign my name and this letter would make perfect sense. I’ve had the quote above (and a bunch of others for him)

saved in my phone for a long time. It always made sense to me. But recently, for some reason, these words have given me, in my opinion, the answer to the political issues we have in the United States today. The Left wants to govern by their “superior” ideologies whereas the Right governs by common sense and practical economic and patriotic policies.

I’ve thought for a long time that the United States, and really all levels of government, need to be run by more accountants and successful businessmen rather than Democrat activists who have never held a real job or produced anything of value. (Bernie Sanders is the first name of many that comes to mind)

The question I ask is would you rather have someone govern who has created products, value, jobs and wealth or someone who protests against these productive and prudent people and wants to make them “pay their fair share” by taxing them into oblivion? By the way, what is their “fair share?”

Currently, the top 1% of earners in the USA pay 40% of all the federal income taxes while the top 10% pay 72% of them. (These stats are from 2022 and were updated in 2024.) For the 2025 tax year those people earning more than $626,000 a year get walloped with a 37% tax bracket. All this isn’t enough for the Left? Well, it isn’t to pay for the “programs” the Left wants. It’s all ideology vs. common sense.

In 2022, speaking to Republicans, New York Governor Kathy Hochul said, “Just jump on a bus and head down to Florida where you belong, OK? Get out of town because you don’t represent our values.” Now, common sense would tell you it’s economic suicide to alienate an entire

swath of successful, taxpaying citizens from your state especially when the pandemic showed us most jobs really don’t need to be done at an office. But Kathy’s “values” (ideologies) were far more important (please note sarcasm here) to tolerate anyone from the Right so she insulted those people and dared them to leave New York. Can you guess what happened? Those people that could leave left and now the governor has changed her tune. In a recent appearance Hochul lamented that her state doesn’t have the “high-networth” residents needed to create the revenue to pay for “the generous social programs we want to have.” She then asked her wealthy supporters to “visit Palm Beach and see who you can bring back home because our tax base has been eroded.” You cannot make this stuff up. Insanity. Without getting too far in the weeds here listing all the ridiculous “programs” the Democrats deem important to fund let’s pick just one at random… say… giving illegal aliens welfare, free healthcare. free housing, free legal services, SNAP and/ or WIC and free education. Let’s just pretend for a minute that the Democrat motives behind this are truly noble and not sinister. Let’s imagine the motivation is to truly help those in need and temporarily assist them as they assimilate into our culture, find work and become productive members of American society. Even under these utopian principles common sense tells us that using hard-earned tax revenues from American citizens to fund the lifestyles of people that shouldn’t even be in our country is fiscally and patriotically irresponsible to put it mildly. Again, ideology vs. actuality.

If the work of Elon Musk and DOGE taught us anything it’s that the horrific waste and fraud of American tax payer money was far beyond anyone’s wildest imagination, according to the Trump administration. Even if you’re a Democrat that makes decisions by the way of feelings rather than critical thinking, are you still not offended at the reckless, basically criminal, spending of your tax dollars? For example, did you ever research about what USAID was using your tax money to fund? Imagine the good that money could do for American citizens! Now that’s a feeling I can get behind. The point is even if you’re a good person and feel the Democrat ideologies need to play a key role in our lives (I just threw up in my mouth) America cannot afford it. Not now. We have a lot to clean up. It’s just using old-fashioned prudence. Utopia vs. reality. Nonsense vs. common sense. Our tax money should benefit only us. Period. Please understand that the Democrat ideology puts America’s economy and citizen’s livelihood peril. The math just doesn’t work. We cannot allow one party to use our tax dollars to create a permanent underclass of illegal voters to retain power and therefore have access to said tax revenues to create avenues of fraud for personal enrichment. It’s ludicrous.

I’ll leave you with more Thomas Sowell: “I have never understood why it is “greed” to want to keep the money you have earned but not greed to want to take somebody else’s money.”

May God bless President Donald J. Trump and the United States of America!

Mark W. Ferrante Ruby Avenue

Join Marblehead Arts Association for its “Through the Looking Glass” spring gala at the Hooper Mansion on Saturday, April 11, starting at 7 p.m. At “Through the Looking Glass,” the galleries will be packed with creative and fanciful original art installations. Guests can also enjoy an augmentedreality room, Tarot card readings, a digital photo booth and live music and dancing upstairs in the ballroom. Artisanal appetizers and desserts will be served, with a cash bar for beer and wine and signature cocktail/mocktail. MAA member individual tickets are $100 and non-members $125. MAA member couple tickets are $150 and nonmember couples $175. Tickets include a glass of champagne. Visit marbleheadarts.org.

ON THE DIAMOND

Spring has sprung for MHS baseball

After a brutal winter, boys prep to play host to Masco in home opener today

BY JOE MCCONNELL

As a refresher, the baseball Magicians were the 37th seed in the final Division 2 power rankings last year after finishing up with a 10-10 regular season record. The Marblehead boys then won one more game in the postseason, when they upset host Marshfield, the 28th seed, 4-2 in a preliminary round game. However, in the Round of 32, fifth-seeded Mansfield took care of them to the tune of 7-3. But that was then, and this is now, and Coach Mike Giardi’s young team has been getting ready for the home opener at Seaside Park later today, April 1, against rival Masco at 4:15 p.m. Giardi welcomed 55 players to tryouts on March 16, and 14 of them were from the freshman class, a promising sign for longterm success. Because of the field conditions, caused by the wintry conditions the last two months, the team has only had one outdoor practice, and as a result, the veteran head coach was still trying to sort things out during last Thursday’s practice. But Giardi did mention that

it won’t be easy to replace last year’s ace on the mound Carter Sahagian. “We definitely have some big shoes to fill after Carter graduated. He appeared in 11 of our games last year, starting in nine of them to end

up with an 8-2 record,” the Marblehead coach said. “He also threw 56 out of a possible 145 innings, which included his last four starts that were all complete game wins. During that span, he issued no earned runs.”

FIELD OF DREAMS

‘World’s

Besides Sahagian’s contributions, Giardi also said that they have to figure out how to replace Ian McComish’s 35 effective innings on the hill. He too has since graduated from the program, but Giardi hopes

that junior Owen Coyne and sophomores Madden Lyons and Sawyer Adams will step up, albeit with limited varsity experience.

least-qualified baseball coach’ shares story

BY LUCA TEDESCO

The names of over 100,000 players, managers, umpires and executives lie within the digital vault that is Baseball Reference, one of, if not the largest repository of baseball knowledge ever compiled. Attached to each one of those names is a story, and while fewer than one-quarter of those stories are capped by an appearance in the major leagues, all of them combine to form the rich tapestry that is the history of professional baseball.

However, while each story is unique, the story of Swampscott’s Evan Katz stands out from the rest.

BY LUCA TEDESCO

From the time that Calvin Bennett of Marblehead first got behind the wheel of a race car at the age of 10, success has followed him everywhere. In 2025, he took home the Little T Quarter Midget Club track championships in the Light 160 and Light World Formula classes as well as the Boston K1 Speed Teen Cup, the latter of which will see him head to a national championship event in California this May. Bennett, age 13, first began attending the Boston K1 Speed indoor karting center to keep his driving skills sharp when the racing season came to a halt during the winter. Now, a year on from finishing fifth in the K1 speed junior national championship, the Tower School student will take on competitors from 30 states in May’s K1 Speed United States Teen E-Karting Championship in Winchester, California.

“K1 was, from the start, mainly just something to do during the offseason,” said Calvin. “There was never really pressure to really succeed in it. Going into the teen league, we were talking in the car as we went there, our goal that season was to not be last.”

Calvin, his parents, Andy and Rachel, and his competitors would quickly realize that the then 12-year-old driver had

Growing up just two miles away from Fenway Park, Katz, like many Boston kids, spent his childhood dreaming of suiting up for the Red Sox. There was only one problem: he had never played any organized baseball.

“The interesting thing is, I never played baseball until I was 45,” Katz said to the attendees of his talk at the Jewish Community Center of the North Shore on Thursday, March 26 describing the life lessons learned as a “I was the youngest in my class, which meant I was the slowest in my class which meant I didn’t like recess, I didn’t like gym. Sports was just not a part of my repertoire, at least organized sports.”

After attending baseball camps in Florida throughout his 40s and 50s, Katz’s dream of professional baseball reawakened.

“When I was 60 years old, I said to a couple of the coaches: ‘Do you think I could find a professional team that would let me play for a day?’” said Katz.

“They said: ‘Sure. Go ahead.’ It took me a year-and-a-half, but I finally got a hold of the commissioner of the Pecos League, Andrew Dunn. He said: ‘Sure! Come on out. You can play for the White Sands Pupfish in Alamogordo.’” If the Major Leagues are the top of the pyramid of North American professional baseball, the Pecos League is one of the lowest rungs. Formed in 2011 with just six clubs, the league is one of the many minor league circuits that are not affiliated with MLB. Now made up of 16 teams across the great plains and the southwest, the Pecos League is an outlier even amongst the other “indy ball” leagues. High elevation coupled with notoriously small ballpark sizes make the Pecos League one of the most run-heavy leagues in the world, averaging over 16 runs per game in 2025.

Upon making his first appearance with the Pupfish in 2017, Katz, then 61 years old, immediately became one of the oldest players in professional baseball history. After facing two batters, letting up a run and failing to record an out in his lone outing that year, Katz’s baseball career could have ended with an infinite ERA. However, Katz returned to the league in 2023 as a 67 year old, taking the mound for the Austin Weirdos, a team which had lost its home field and was playing out the year as a barnstorming ballclub.

“By the time I got to Alpine, Texas, to join the Weirdos, there were only 11 players left,” said Katz. “They had driven 700 miles from Blackwell, Oklahoma, the night before, and the manager was desperate for a starting

COURTESY PHOTO / EVAN KATZ

Evan Katz (center) of Swampscott was the bullpen coach for the North Platte 80s of the Pecos League during the 2025 season. Katz describes himself as the least qualified coach in pro baseball.

COURTESY PHOTOS / ANDY BENNETT

Calvin Bennett, 13, sits on the top step of the podium after winning the 2025 K1 Speed Boston Teen Championship, earning him a trip to California for the national championship event next month.

FILE PHOTO / KEN MCGAGH

Marblehead High baseball coach Mike Giardi talks to his team after the state tournament game against Hopkinton in 2023. Giardi’s young crew this year is ready to take on rival Masco in the home opener on Wednesday, April 1, at Seaside Park.

MHS sports early spring notebook update

BY JOE MCCONNELL

Veteran girls tennis preps for more success in 2026

Tracy Ackerman is only days away from beginning her 10th season as the Marblehead High girls tennis coach. Rival Masco will provide the competition in Chieftain country on Monday, April 6, at 4 p.m. The Magicians will follow that up with the home opener four days later on April 10 against non-league Hamilton-Wenham at the same time.

Ackerman’s goals for this season remain the same, and it’s as simple as contending for the Northeastern Conference championship, and qualifying for the state tournament.

Last year, as the 18th seed in the Division 2 state tournament, the Magicians (13-4) were able to upset those Chieftains (12-2), the 15th seed, in the Round of 32 to begin the postseason, 3-2. But then, they dropped a 4-1 decision to Wayland, the second seed, in the Sweet 16, while the Warriors continued on with two more wins, before losing to undefeated Longmeadow, the top seed, in the state finals, 3-2.

But that’s in the past, and now Ackerman is onto a brand-new campaign with five holdovers

from last year’s squad. She expects all of them to make a big impact to help the team secure another winning record.

Senior tri-captain Samara Dosch returns as the team’s first singles player. “Sami has the benefit of last year’s

experiences,” said Ackerman. “As always, she will face the opposition’s best player, but I know that she is up to the task.”

Senior tri-captain Caroline Bruett made the All-Conference team last year as a second doubles player, but this season

she will anchor first doubles. “Bruett won some really close, competitive matches last year, and that experience coupled with her leadership qualities should continue to make her a formidable opponent.”

Senior tri-captain Joy Meshulam was injured last year, and as a result, she’s anxious to get back out there on the courts to play an important role in the starting lineup.

Junior Callie Gilmore will be the team’s second singles player. “Callie was a utility player, who stepped up for us in some crucial matches last year,” said Ackerman. “She is a natural athlete, and I have high hopes that she’ll have even more success throughout the next three months.”

Erin Wilder, also a returnee, is currently recuperating from an injury, but the coach hopes for a quick recovery, because she is another one of her impactful athletes.

Lilly O’Keefe and freshman Sophie Li have been impressive in practice, according to Ackerman. The veteran coach then said of her entire varsity team: “Overall, they have great attitudes with the same amount of energy to keep that winning tradition going for another year.”

Girls lacrosse drops opener to host Woburn

The Marblehead High girls lacrosse team lost a high scoring, competitive matchup to host Woburn, 12-11 on March 26 to begin a new season. The Tanners also had a slim lead at halftime, 6-5.

“It was a strong first game,” said veteran head coach Annie Madden. “Our defense was outstanding. We spent most of the game (shorthanded), but as a whole, the team still rose to the challenge by communicating well and pushing the ball up in transition to ultimately keep it close on the scoreboard.”

Addie Co-Peeps (1 goal, 1 assist), Emma Ryan (4 goals), Zoe Dwyer (4 goals, 3 assists), Gwen Potter (2 assists), Maggie Svencer (1 goal) and June Crawford (1 goal, 1 assist) factored into the scoring against host Woburn. Goalie Molly Bullard did the job to keep her teammates in the game with 10 critical saves.

Last year, these Magicians finished the regular season with a 12-6 record, and were the 23rd seed in the Division 2 state tournament. They then ended up losing to Grafton, the 10th seed, in the Round of 32, 14-6.

Local dad running London Marathon to support Boston Children’s Hospital

BY LEIGH BLANDER

When Marblehead resident Brody Inglis lines up for the London Marathon April 26, the race will represent far more than another long-distance challenge.

The father of two is running to raise money for Boston Children’s Hospital through its Miles for Miracles program — combining a personal milestone with a cause close to his heart.

“I turned 40 in 2026, and I thought, ‘This is the year I will do more volunteering,’” he said. In addition to raising money for Children’s Hospital, he’s coaching girls lacrosse and coordinating Marblehead’s Youth Hockey Holly Hocks program.

Inglis and his wife, Colleen — vocal music director at Marblehead High School — are raising two children, ages 8 and 6, who attend the Brown School.

Running has long been part of Inglis’ life. He previously completed marathons when he turned 30 and again at 34, but turning 40 inspired him to set a new goal.

“Running the London Marathon has been a lifelong goal, and as I celebrate my 40th year, I wanted to take on a meaningful challenge — raising money for such an important cause,” he wrote on his fundraising page.

The race also carries personal significance because of Inglis’ childhood connection to England. Born in Texas, he

moved overseas with his family when he was 12 after his father received a job opportunity.

“I still have a good group of friends there,” he said. “Running London has always been somewhat on my bucket list.”

Last summer, his family spent a month in England. This year, the trip will double as both a family vacation and race weekend.

“We’re flying to Amsterdam for four days and then taking the train to London,” he said.

The timing lines up perfectly with April break for his kids and wife, he explained.

Among the regulars in the everyday lineup, junior Greyson Leventhal should be starting at shortstop for the third straight year. His classmate Ethan Harwood will be alongside him at second base after playing well there last year as a sophomore, according to Giardi.

Senior E.J. Wyman has been the team’s starting catcher the last two years, and in all likelihood, he’ll be back there against aforementioned Masco later today.

If he’s not on the mound, Coyne will be back in the outfield. Senior Aidan Downey is another veteran, who will be in the outfield.

But don’t forget players like

His work with young athletes helped inspire his fundraising goal of $15,000.

“As a coach and father of two school-aged children, I’ve had the privilege of working with many young athletes — witnessing their resilience, energy and determination to overcome challenges,” he wrote.

“I also personally know children who have been treated at Boston Children’s, and I’ve seen firsthand the remarkable impact this hospital has on their lives and the lives of their families.”

Preparing for a marathon during a snowy New England

seniors Ryan Angilly and Dylan Glass, juniors Tim Wales, Andrew Dellacamera, Sam McComish and Pete Rhodes and sophomore catcher Will DePhillips. They are also fighting for starting positions.

The depth is there to give Giardi many options to choose from throughout the next three months.

Overall, Giardi said that these Magicians are extremely young with only six seniors on

winter hasn’t been easy.

“It’s been hard this winter because of all the snow. There haven’t been a lot of sidewalks,” he laughed. “I’ve been doing a lot of my training runs along King’s Beach in Lynn and into Nahant, including an 18-miler in the rain on Sunday.”

Professionally, Inglis works for the app RunBuggy, managing accounts. But much of his energy this winter has been devoted to training and fundraising. He says the race represents both a personal challenge and a community effort.

“I’m proud to run and fundraise so that every child who needs care can receive it, and every family can have the support they deserve,” he said.

To learn more about Inglis’ run, visit https://loom.ly/ Hr4uJVE.

the varsity roster. But he likes that depth, particularly in the pitching department. Besides the 14 freshmen, he has 18 sophomores and 11 juniors to round out the underclassmen in the entire program.

Teams in the Northeastern Conference’s Dunn Division that includes Marblehead are pretty much all competing equally for the title. Beverly,

Danvers, Peabody and Masco should all be vying for that top spot, along with the Magicians, while Gloucester, Swampscott, Winthrop, Salem and Saugus will be just as formidable in the Lynch Division. “All these teams have at least one solid No. 1 pitcher, and after that they, like us, will look to the younger players to fill out the rest of their staffs,” he said.

Leigh Blander

COURTESY PHOTOS

Brody Inglis poses with his family on a recent trip to London, where he’ll run a marathon on April 26.

Brody Inglis says the snowy winter has made training for the London Marathon challenging. This is a photo of him after a run.

FILE PHOTO

Marblehead High senior tri-captain Samara Dosch returns as the team’s first singles player ready to lead her teammates to another winning season. The season kicks off on Monday, April 6, against rival Masco in Boxford.

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. HamiltonWenham 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 tennis vs. St. John’s Prep at St. John’s Prep, Danvers

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 baseball vs. Salem at Gallows Hill Park, Salem

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Danvers at Marblehead High

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

Sunday, May 3

pitcher. I said: ‘I’m ready.’” Katz went on to throw four innings in his lone career start, giving up 13 runs on 14 hits, but reducing his career ERA from infinity to a more modest 29.25. However, his time in the league was not done. In 2024, after two years coaching the Manchester Essex Regional High School, winning the MIAA Division 4 state championship in 2022, Katz returned as the pitching coach for the Roswell Invaders, but was forced to leave the team after just four games due to a family emergency.

more than enough pace to keep up with the competition, grabbing pole position for his first race in the teen league in January 2025.

“All of the other teens were like: ‘Wait, who is this kid? He was on the junior side last year? What’s happening?’” said Andy. “We expected, when he moved up to the teen league, he wouldn’t be immediately successful. We thought there was going to be more of a learning curve.”

With the biggest race of his karting career just one month away, Calvin is still trying to process the series of events that brought him to this moment.

“It’s kind of strange how

9:30 a.m., boys and girls track at MSTCA D4 State Relays, Pembroke High

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

Tuesday, May 5

4 p.m., boys and girls track vs. Winthrop and Salem at Marblehead Village School

4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Malden Catholic at Marblehead High

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

4:30 p.m., girls lacrosse vs. Danvers at Danvers High

Wednesday, May 6

4 p.m., boys baseball vs. Peabody at Peabody High

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Swampscott at Swampscott Middle

5 p.m., girls softball vs. Peabody at Marblehead Veterans School

Thursday, May 7

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

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

Friday, May 8

4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Malden Catholic at Malden Catholic

4 p.m., girls softball vs. Gloucester at Gloucester High

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Peabody at Marblehead High

4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs. Gloucester at Seaside Park

Saturday, May 9

9:30 a.m., boys and girls track at NEC Freshman/Sophomore Championship Meet at Gloucester High

10:30 a.m., girls tennis vs. Newburyport at Nock Middle School, Newburyport

11 a.m., boys lacrosse vs. Lexington at MHS Piper Field

11 a.m., girls lacrosse vs. Bishop Fenwick at Bishop Fenwick, Peabody

Monday, May 11

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

this little offseason hobby has turned into this national race,” said Bennett. “It’s kind of crazy, honestly.”

However, while Calvin may get the glory behind the wheel, motorsports are a team endeavour. His mother, Rachel, acts as the crew chief, race strategist and lead mechanic for Team Bennett’s quarter midget program, translating feedback from her driver into setup changes to give the team the best chance of a win.

“When Calvin said he wanted to start getting more serious in these other leagues, it was actually my wife that did the research and found the oval tracks down in Connecticut for junior racing” said Andy.

“(Calvin) was very excited and in my head, I thought: ‘Oh, this is something we’ll think about.’

In 2025, Katz, now 69 years old, joined the North Platte 80s as the bullpen coach and recruiting coordinator, helping to bring more

had never coached nor played prior to joining the professional ranks,

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Gloucester at Gloucester High

4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Gloucester at Marblehead High

4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs. Peabody at MHS Piper Field

4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs. Swampscott at Seaside Park

5 p.m., girls softball vs. Ipswich at Marblehead Veterans School

Tuesday, May 12

4:30 p.m., boys track at NEC Duals Rainout Makeup Meet (if necessary)

Wednesday, May 13

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

4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Beverly at Marblehead High

4 p.m., girls lacrosse vs. Masconomet at Masconomet, Boxford

4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs. Beverly at Seaside Park

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

5 p.m., girls softball vs. Beverly at Beverly High

Thursday, May 14

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Danvers at Danvers High

4 p.m., boys tennis vs. Danvers at Marblehead High

4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs. Danvers at Seaside Park

5 p.m., girls softball vs. Danvers at Tiggle Field, Danvers

Saturday, May 16

9:30 a.m., boys and girls track at MSTCA Metro Coaches Invitational, Lexington High

11 a.m., girls lacrosse vs. Tewksbury at John F. Ryan Gym, Tewksbury

Monday, May 18

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Winthrop at Marblehead High

4:15 p.m., boys lacrosse vs. Melrose at Melrose High Green Stadium

4:30 p.m., boys tennis vs. Winthrop at Winthrop High

4:30 p.m., boys baseball vs. Winthrop at Winthrop High

4:30 p.m., girls softball vs. Winthrop at Marblehead Veterans Middle School

Tuesday, May 19

4 p.m., girls tennis vs. Lynnfield at Marblehead High

And my wife said: ‘No. Let’s go buy a car.’”

Looking into the future, Bennett hopes to take his talents all the way to the pinnacle of both North American and international motorsports. He will take his first steps in full sized cars later this year, taking part in SCCA spec Miata races as well as running a full sized midget car as a stepping stone to higher level series.

“Driving in IMSA could be a really good fit, but IndyCar and NASCAR, I would be very happy to be doing either of those,” said Bennett. “I mean, GT cars would be really good because they’re raced pretty much everywhere, but being able to have the chance to get an overall win in IMSA and be in the GTP class would be really cool.”

he made an impression on the team, forming strong bonds with the players and acting as an important piece in the team’s playoff run. Katz’s powerful story of perseverance and reinvention Now “retired” from professional coaching (though, according to friends in MLB coaching positions, he does not have enough experience to officially retire), Katz hopes to see his story of perseverance and reinvention inspire others to see that it’s never too late to chase a dream. Outside of his speaking arrangements, he runs Baseball By The Sea Media (https://loom. ly/sDtEHRE) where he posts blogs and podcasts recounting his time in the Pecos League. He also is a contributor to the Society of American Baseball Research.

COURTESY PHOTO / EVAN KATZ

The North Platte 80s clinched a berth to the Pecos League quarterfinals in dramatic fashion, walking off the Blackwell FlyCatchers, 4-3, on July 31, 2025 at Bill Wood Field in North Platte, Nebraska.

COURTESY PHOTO / ANDY BENNETT Calvin Bennett (kart No. 24) pulls onto the track for a league race at K1 Speed Boston.

Marblehead’s best bets

Current Events spotlights notable happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email info@ marbleheadnews.org.

Concert in honor of Bob Franke’s life, music

Friday, April 3, 8 p.m.

A cherished Marblehead tradition will take on added significance this year as St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church hosts a special Good Friday performance in memory of acclaimed folk singer and songwriter Bob Franke.

Franke died Oct. 16, 2025, after being struck by a motorcycle in Antigua, Guatemala, where he and his wife had retired just weeks earlier. He was 78.

Now, musicians who worked closely with Franke over the decades will reunite to perform “Meditations on the Passion,” a work that has resonated with audiences for more than 40 years. Admission is free, but a suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. Questions? Contact St. Andrew’s church at 781-631-4951.

Powering Flight: Build circuits to make things fly

Tuesday, April 7,

Explore

By Julia Rockler

Easter egg & matzo hunt

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

Celebrate the season with an egg and matzo hunt at Beach Bluff Park on Preston Beach. Families and friends can participate in a festive morning and meet live bunnies from Felix’s Family Farm. Remember to bring your basket. Registration is required at https://docs.google.com. The fee is $35. If you have questions, call 617-953-5780.

Eric Andersen Live at Me&Thee

Friday, April 10, 8 p.m.

The ballad singer and songwriter Eric Andersen, who has gigs around the world and collaborated with artists such as the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin, is coming back to perform with Steve Addabbo at the Me&Thee. Addabbo is a rock record producer/songwriter from New York. Tickets can be booked online at meandthee.org for $35 for general admission and for college students $10 with a valid ID.

Rotary Club Easter egg hunt

Sunday, April 5, 1:30 p.m.

Come join the Marblehead Rotary Club’s annual Easter egg hunt at Seaside Park. There will be 10,000 chocolate eggs, but they go quickly so arrive right at 1:30 p.m.

Pop-up Shops

Thursday & Friday, April 9-10, 6-10 p.m.

Participate in a wonderful shopping experience at The Pop-Up Shops with 20+ New England-based vendors and artists. Stroll by a selection of clothing, jewelry, accessories, art work and much more. The event takes place at the Boston Yacht Club and to attend, tickets can be booked online at mhdpopupshops.com for $30. All proceeds benefit Friends of Marblehead Public Schools. Follow @mhdpopupshops for updates on Instagram.

Volunteers shift into high gear for milestone Arts Festival

BY LEIGH BLANDER

of Arts this year with new events, special memorabilia and an expanded schedule. Volunteers have been

working all year to prepare for the festival, which draws visitors from across the North Shore and beyond.

“We really hit the ground running last July,” said volunteer and festival board member Joe Tavano. “This has been a busy year, but we’re also really on the ball.”

Starting April 1, artists are invited to submit work for 11 exhibits across six locations throughout Marblehead, continuing a format used in recent years.

April also marks the start of ticket sales for the festival’s ticketed events, including the popular

Champagne Reception scheduled for June 28, just before the festival begins.

Organizers say the goal is to allow visitors to map out their festival plans months in advance.

“Everything will be open and available so people can start planning their schedules and see the full lineup,” Tavano said.

Additional submissions for the Film Festival and Literary Festival are expected to open later in April.

Concerts at Crocker Park

The festival has released its lineup for the popular

Concerts at Crocker Park series.

More than a dozen musical acts are scheduled, including Los Sugar Kings, Sarah Blackler & The Light, and Better Than Nothing — The Last Waltz. The full schedule is available at marbleheadfestival.org.

Literary events move outdoors

The festival’s literary programming is also evolving this year. Literary events will move outdoors to the upper garden at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion, offering a new setting for readings and discussions.

Festival is printing 250 of these commemorative posters marking the 60th Festival.

Festival President Cynda Rohmer said the literary program has expanded significantly in recent years, growing beyond the traditional festival weekend with events held throughout the year. One upcoming example

Marblehead will celebrate the 60th Marblehead Festival

Native pens retro anthem for town

BY LEIGH BLANDER

For one Marblehead native, memories of growing up in town never really faded — they just needed a melody.

After decades away, Marblehead High School Class of 1971 graduate Jay Block recently wrote a nostalgic song celebrating the freedom, friendships and small-town traditions that defined his childhood here.

The tune, which he calls a kind of “retro Marblehead theme song,” has already begun circulating online and drawing attention from residents who recognize the places and experiences woven through the lyrics.

“It just felt right,” Block said. “I love Marblehead. I thought, ‘I’ll just write a song.’”

Remarkably, the song came together quickly. He said the lyrics flowed out in less than 45 minutes, pulling from vivid memories of a childhood spent outdoors in a town that felt like a playground.

“We played outdoors — we were free to roam. We rode bikes at night, and were never at home,” the song begins, setting the tone for a portrait of a generation that grew up before smartphones and social media.

“There were no iPhones — we

were creative at play. And the hub of the town was the YMCA,” the song continues.

The lyrics read like a tour through Marblehead in the late 1960s and early 1970s, name-checking beloved local institutions and hangouts: Winslow’s, Hutchies, the sub shop, harbor and the penny candy store no kid could resist.

The chorus captures the essence of those years:

“Paper routes, Little League, friendships galore.

We built tree houses, played Wiffle ball — and so much more.

And so much more could easily be said.

But nothing could ever be better in life… than growing up in Marblehead.”

Though the song celebrates the past, the writer’s own story

bridges generations. After graduating in 1971, Block left Marblehead and spent about 30 years away before moving back roughly a decade ago. Now nearing full retirement, he said the project felt like a way to reflect on the life he and his classmates shared.

“I come back to a class from ’71 that just loved this town,” Block said. “It’s not something we took for granted.”

Before writing the song, he built a long career as an author, writing 19 books — including 12 published by McGraw Hill — focused on career advice and job searching. Friends sometimes jokingly described him as “the Tony Robbins of the career industry.”

Songwriting, however, has always been more personal. In the past, he wrote songs for family occasions, including one for his father’s 80th birthday and another after his mother died.

This time, he wanted to capture something different — a shared memory of a generation.

“We were the last generation that lived like that,” Block said. “There are no paper routes anymore. Parents weren’t worried about razor blades in Halloween apples like they are now. It was just a different world.”

Once the lyrics were finished, Block sent them to a friend from high school — Art Dodge, who manages the Gerry 5 — to get feedback and help bring the song to life.

The finished version was produced using artificial intelligence technology, something the writer acknowledges openly.

“It’s AI produced, but it’s legal and it’s mine,” Block said. “The words and the memories are real.”

The song also reflects on the broader culture of the era, referencing Woodstock, rock legends and the anti-war movement:

“The music was tops — there was Woodstock and Mick.

Hendrix and Janis — so many to pick.

Make love not war, and hippies with weed.

The Kings Rook and Maddie’s — what more do we need?”

Beyond nostalgia, the song pays tribute to Marblehead’s deeper history as well.

“Its history goes back to the Revolutionary War — where the American Navy was born,” the lyrics note, referencing Abbot Hall and the town’s enduring civic spirit.

The songwriter says he isn’t expecting the tune to become a national hit. In fact, he thinks its appeal is far more local.

“I don’t think someone in San Diego is going to listen to this and get it,” Block said with a laugh. “This is really for people who remember Marblehead.”

Still, the song has already found an audience. Online plays have climbed past 1,000, with many listeners sharing it among classmates and longtime residents who recognize the town the lyrics describe.

For Block, the message is simple: The childhood he and his peers experienced was something rare.

“I think we were the luckiest generation in the history of the world,” he said.

You can listen to Block’s song at https://loom.ly/cSNSofk.

Phone ping, family dispute and payroll scam top the blotter

Thursday, March 5

» Alarms: 0

» Building/property checks: 11

» Abandoned 911 calls: 1

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

7:29 a.m. An officer took a report over the phone regarding a lost iPhone. The woman explained that the phone had been lost for a while, but around a week ago, she checked her Find my iPhone app, and it showed her phone pinging in the area of Broughton Road, though there had been no new pings since then. The officer advised the woman to call right away if there were new pings so that an officer could attempt to locate it for her. Based on the radius of the ping and it being a week old, the officer told her that the phone could be somewhere else or in any one of the apartments. The woman said she understood and

did not want to get anybody in trouble but wanted to locate her phone so that she could trade it in.

2:15 p.m. An officer assisted with school crossing on Dartmouth and Cornell roads.

Friday, March 6

» Alarms: 1

» Building/property checks: 8

» Abandoned 911 calls: 0

» Vehicle stops, citations: 1

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

7:22 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Rockaway and Summer streets.

8:22 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Intrepid Circle and filed a report.

8:23 a.m. A general complaint on Lorraine Terrace was referred to another agency.

10:27 a.m. A general complaint on Washington Street was

planned for the spring and fall.

New talks and workshops

referred to another agency.

3:24 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Humphrey Street.

6:07 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Intrepid Circle.

9 p.m. Officers assisted another agency on Atlantic and Seaview avenues.

Saturday, March 7

» Alarms: 1 » Building/property checks: 15

» Abandoned 911 calls: 1

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0

performances will once again fill venues across town during the July celebration.

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

2 a.m. Assistance was rendered to a citizen on Mound Road.

10:11 a.m. A caller on Stratford Road reported having received annoying phone calls.

2:59 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Pleasant Street.

5 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Broughton Road to investigate a report of a dispute between a mother and daughter. Upon his arrival, he spoke to the daughter, who said her mother had come to her house earlier and took the car that she allows the daughter to use. When asked about this, the daughter stated that gives mother money for the car’s insurance on the first of the month but had been unable to pay her mother this month, as she was awaiting a tax refund that had not yet arrived. The daughter stated that her mother had come and

special donor packages.

is a literary-themed “Jeopardy” event scheduled for mid-April.

A festival that lasts all year

While the Fourth of July weekend remains the centerpiece, organizers say they are intentionally spreading arts programming across the calendar.

“In the past, it was four days — and then you wouldn’t think about us again for the rest of the year,” Rohmer said. “Now we want to have something happening all the time so people stay engaged.”

That approach is already visible. Events earlier this year included speed-puzzling competitions, and additional literary and arts programs are

The festival is also adding educational programs and artist talks.

One upcoming event will feature Marblehead architect Tom Saltsman, whose elaborate Halloween installations draw worldwide attention each year. He will present a multimedia talk exploring the inspiration behind his projects.

Another workshop will teach participants how to use iPhone cameras and iPad styluses to take and edit photographs or create digital art.

Signature traditions return

Despite the new additions, many longtime festival traditions will remain.

The Artisan’s Marketplace, art exhibits, model boat races and

The festival will also continue community art projects such as the “Cods and Whales” public sculptures, which will appear in local storefronts after a preview event at Abbot Hall on May 29.

Because Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year, organizers plan to extend some programming into Sunday to give visitors more opportunities to attend events.

A special year for memorabilia

To mark the 60th festival, organizers are introducing a limited-edition poster and a redesigned commemorative program book highlighting the festival’s history.

The poster will be produced in a limited run of about 250 copies and will be available as part of

The program book will also expand to include historical reflections, volunteer profiles and stories about people who helped shape the festival over the decades.

Powered by volunteers

Like most years, the festival relies heavily on volunteers.

Rohmer estimates about 400 volunteers are needed to run the event each summer, supported by a year-round leadership team of roughly 30 to 40 chairs and board members.

The organization is still recruiting volunteers, and several leadership roles remain open, including positions overseeing events, exhibits, volunteer coordination and communications.

“We always welcome more people,” Rohmer added.

demanded the keys to the car, which she provided, but the daughter was not allowed to retrieve personal items out of the car, which included fishing rods and equipment, toys and miscellaneous paperwork. The daughter said that, for now, she just wished to have the incident documented and would contact her mother the following day and arrange to retrieve her items once cooler heads prevailed. She declined the officer’s offer to go and speak to her mother, as she did not want to escalate the issue further.

9:18 p.m. General information was provided on Robert Road.

Sunday, March 8

» Alarms: 0 » Building/property checks: 4 » Abandoned 911 calls: 3 » Vehicle stops, citations: 1 » Vehicle stops, verbal

Honoring a legacy of creativity

Organizers say the focus is not only on celebrating art, but also on honoring the community members who built the tradition.

Much of that history will be highlighted in anniversary programming and commemorative materials.

“This year is really about reflecting on 60 years,” Rohmer said, “and recognizing the people who have made the Festival what it is.”

If planners have their way, the celebration will ensure the Marblehead Festival of Arts stays on residents’ calendars — not just for four days in July, but throughout the year.

Learn more at marbleheadfestival.org.

Jay Block wrote the song

“Marblehead Memories” in about 45 minutes.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Jay Block and his MHS teammate

Cy Kilgore after winning the state high school basketball tournament in 1971.

Johannah ‘Josie’ Crowley

Johannah “Josie” Crowley passed away peacefully, at home, on March 22, surrounded by her loving family. Josie (Hammond) Crowley was born in Marblehead on Oct. 5, 1941 as the daughter of Mary (Brady) Hammond and Ralph Hammond. She was predeceased by her son Sean Patrick; brother William; and sisters Anne Khatchadurian, Catherine Hammond and Mary Margaret Hammond.

Josie was educated in Marblehead schools graduating with the Class of ‘59 and then moved on to the Salem Hospital Pediatric School of Nursing.

Norton P. Halber, 92

Norton (Norty) Halber, a resident of Marblehead since 1971, peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in the presence of his son at the Harriett & Ralph Kaplan Estates in Peabody. He leaves his wife of 39 years, Dorthy Halber (best friend and tennis partner); son, Eric; and grandson, Matthew. He also leaves longtime friends Jesse Kajko and Bill Smalley;

She met her future husband, John, while they were working at Jordan Marsh Company. They enjoyed 63 wonderful years together.

Josie spent several years travelling due to the requirements of her husband’s Air Force orders. Their son, Sean, was born at the air base in Georgia and their daughter,

In Brief

From P. 6

The Marblehead Museum will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the J.O.J. Frost Gallery at 170 Washington St. The board of trustees will provide a year in review of 2025 and will discuss opening plans of the newest museum building, the Jeremiah Lee Brick Kitchen and Slave

warnings: 0

11:24 a.m. Assistance was rendered to a citizen on Bayview Road.

1:54 p..m. Assistance was rendered to a citizen on State and Washington streets.

4:52 p.m. General information was provided on Anderson Street.

5:55 p.m. General information was provided on Locust Street.

7:15 p.m. Officers investigated a disturbance on Pleasant Street.

Christine, was born at West Point Military Hospital. Their youngest child, Timothy, was born back near home at Salem Hospital.

Josie spent many years as a teacher’s assistant at schools for handicapped students in Pennsylvania and Indiana, a job that she excelled at and cherished. She also volunteered, teaching CCD to high school students at St. Basil’s in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, for over 20 years.

She and her husband retired at the same time 26 years ago and returned to Josie’s hometown of Marblehead which they both loved. Josie’s decorative personality was on display in Marblehead and Fort Myers, Florida, where she and John enjoyed many winter seasons. She would decorate her home for every holiday, and she was

+ and their children Rachel and Zachery.

Norton was born on August 1, 1932 in Cleveland, Ohio to Ann and Sam Halber. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Northwestern University in 1953, Norton worked in the early computer industry. He retired from Blue Cross of Massachusetts in 1992 as a manager of computer systems. Norton was an avid drummer/ percussionist and rubbed shoulders as a teenager with Buddy Rich and Lionel Hampton.

Jack McGrath, 25

Jack McGrath died suddenly on March 21 doing what he loved to do most in the world — skiing. Skiing was his passion and he shared that love and enthusiasm with everyone from a very young age. Jack was 25 years old. He was spirited, joyful and loving to all around him.

Quarters, opening this spring.

The meeting will be followed at 7 p.m. by a talk from Christa Beranek of the Fiske Center for Archaeological Research. Beranek will reveal the results of last year’s archaeological dig at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion. Some of the artifacts found during the dig will be displayed.

The annual meeting is free to attend and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, visit the

Monday, March 9

» Alarms: 1 » Building/property checks: 6

» Abandoned 911 calls: 2

» Vehicle stops, citations: 2

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

12:58 a.m. An officer assisted with a disabled vehicle on Pleasant and Devereux streets.

9:42 a.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Pleasant Street.

9:55 a.m. An officer investigated a report of fraud reported by an employee of a local home healthcare agency.

known for her ever-changing hair colors. She was very devoted to the mission of and all the activities at Marblehead’s Council on Aging. Her friends and staff there were her second family. She could be seen at the COA playing chair volleyball and bocce or volunteering with the veterans breakfasts. She always put family and friends before herself. She was a beautiful, giving person who could make everyone smile.

Josie loved life, her family, extended family and her wonderful friends. She was blessed with a happy, joyful personality that she readily shared with those around her throughout her life.

She is survived by her husband John; her daughter, Christine Nylund (David); grandchildren Micaela (Will), James, Emilie

He played in several local swing bands. He won Best of Show in the Marblehead Arts Festival for his short story. He enjoyed reading and listening to jazz and opera. His main interests were sailing and sports. A selftaught sailor, over several decades, Norton could be seen sailing single-handed through Marblehead harbor. He was an accomplished golfer (made a hole-in one-at the Beverly Golf and Tennis Club) and tennis player. At a younger age he played in the

During his short, but full life, Jack made an impact in the communities he was a part of from Marblehead to Carrabassett Valley, Maine, and lastly in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

Jack leaves his parents John and Danielle; brother Ben, sister Carlyn and brother-in-law Jakob Wikar; his girlfriend Nicole Grimaldos; and grandparents Bob and Penny Paquette along with a large family network; aunts, uncles, cousins and

Marblehead Museum’s website, marbleheadmuseum.org, or call the museum at 781-631-1768.

Pop-up Shops

The Marblehead Moms’ Co-Op will host its annual Pop-up Shops on Thursday, April 9 and Friday, April 10, at the Boston Yacht Club.

The event features more than 20 local artisans and small businesses, with ticket proceeds benefiting the Friends of the

The woman reported she had received an email, which seemed to be from an employee asking to update their payroll information. After the woman made the update, over $1,000 was sent to the account provided in the email. The woman then learned from other employees that the email had been a scam. The officer asked for all the documentation and email associated with the incident, which he planned to share with a detective.

2:03 p.m. An officer assisted another agency on Prospect Street.

and Rebecca; and her son Tim (Kim) and grandchildren Hannah, Paige and Seamus. Josie’s great-granddaughter, Lily Jean, was born to Micaela and Will one year ago. Josie also has many nieces and nephews she adored.

Josie will be missed immensely.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, May 14, 4-8 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. Her funeral Mass will be held Friday, May 15, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave. Burial will follow at Waterside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Friends of the Marblehead Council on Aging. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Josie’s family.

national slow-pitch softball championship after helping his team win the Cleveland, Ohio, city title. He continued his softball antics in local leagues in Marblehead and Swampscott. He was active in, and a former president of, the Salem Explorers, where he also taught classes in jazz. Later in life, he discovered bridge, playing locally at the Marblehead Council on Aging and online. His unique sense of humor (Monty Python and Rodney Dangerfield), kindness and smile will be greatly missed.

friends/family too numerous to name without leaving someone out. Jack’s family would like to express our love, gratitude and sincere appreciation for the support we have received from everyone — from Steamboat Springs to Marblehead to Carrabassett Valley. We are forever grateful and humbled. Memorial service will take place Saturday, April 11, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church in Marblehead.

Marblehead Public Schools.

“This event is about more than just shopping — it’s about coming together as a community,” said Erin Spinucci of the Marblehead Moms’ Co-Op. “Enjoy local sips and bites while shopping and supporting your community.”

A complete list of vendors is available at mhdpopupshops. com. Tickets are $30 when purchased in advance via www. mhdpopupshops.com, $35 at the

8:57 p.m. Ear pods were found on Front Street.

Tuesday, March 10

» Alarms: 3

» Building/property checks: 6

» Abandoned 911 calls: 0

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

1:04 a.m. An officer provided assistance to the Salem Police Department on Washington Street.

4:42 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Cedar Street.

10:13 p.m. An officer

door. The event is intended for adults only — no children, please.

Blood drive

The Marblehead Rotary Club is sponsoring a Red Cross blood drive on Tuesday, April 14, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Boston Yacht Club. The Rotary has hosted this drive each spring and fall for years. Register by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and type in “Marblehead.”

investigated a report of suspicious activity on Atlantic Avenue.

Wednesday, March 11

» Alarms: 4

» Building/property checks: 3

» Abandoned 911 calls: 1

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

2:15 p.m. An officer assisted with a utilities issue on Pleasant Street.

5:12 p.m. An officer

investigated a report of suspicious activity on Wyman Road but could not locate it.

daughter-in-law, Jodie Titus, her husband Cal Titus;

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community

London Perlow and Mary Prindiville, Freshmen 2025 - 2026 Issue

Marblehead Festival of the Arts

Interested in volunteering and community service opportunities? Look into the Marblehead Festival of the Arts service hours.

The Marblehead Festival of the Arts is an event that happens every 4th of July weekend. Throughout the event, activities and exhibits are open to the public all around town. One of these exhibits is the Youth and Student Art exhibit. This section is dedicated to the art of students and children from pre-school to high school. As for volunteering, one is required to complete simple tasks such as counting how many people enter the exhibit each day, answering questions, handing out pamphlets, and more. For anyone interested in the art community here in Marblehead, and just art in general, this is a great opportunity. For more information, go to www.marbleheadfestival.org. Click on attractions and exhibits, and scroll down until you find Youth and Student. If you’re interested in volunteering or have any other questions, feel free to email londonjperlow4@gmail.com.

If you are stuck on some ideas on types of art to bring to the exhibit, these are some ideas from last year. The student art exhibit is for artists 18 and under. However, the entire art festival is for everyone who lives in Marblehead!

1. If you took an art class this year, such as painting, drawing sculpture, CAD, etc, submit one of those projects you created.

2. Original sketches and paintings that you created at home or in a separate art class.

3. Any students who took photography can submit pictures.

4. There is a category dedicated to painting the town of Marblehead.

5. Another popular category is the Senior Art exhibit for senior citizens (65 or older).

The more submissions the better for the Marblehead Arts Festival! It is such a great way to get connected in your community and show off some of your drawing skills, even if you haven’t taken an actual class on them yet! The range in ages provides a great way to get to know other people around the town. For instance, the logo this year was created by a freshman at Marblehead High School named Brayden Coe. So, submit something to the festival this year, you might even win!

Important Dates in April:

April 3 - Early Release Day (Good Friday)

April 8 - First day of Fourth Quarter

April 10 - Acapellaooza - Performing Arts Center - 7:00 pm

April 15 - All Jazz Concert - MHS Theater - 7:00 pm

April 20-24 - April Vacation

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins

Baseball season is underway

Will Pelliciotti, Senior

It's been 144 days since the last game of MLB baseball, where in an all-time classic game 7, the L.A. Dodgers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 in 11 innings to clinch their second straight World Series title. Close to five months later, Opening Day for the 2026 MLB season is here, where the Yankees will take on the Giants in San Francisco on the night of March 25.

Spring training for the 2026 season has been a tumultuous time for professional baseball. The World Baseball Classic has run its course, with many top players taking time off preseason baseball to represent their nations on the world stage. From the Red Sox, 15 different players took part in the Classic and totaled a combined 10 home runs throughout.

The Red Sox in 2025 won 89 games and clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2021, with several young players such as Cedanne Rafeala, Marcelo Mayer, and Roman Anthony. However, their season ended in disappointment, with a tough loss to the Yankees in the three-game series Wild Card round, notably with an absent Roman Anthony. This year, the Red Sox are projected to win around 90 games and make it back to the postseason for the second year in a row.

The Red Sox begin their season with a weekend series against the Cincinnati Reds, who were also eliminated in the Wild Card round in last year’s postseason. Afterwards, they fly to Houston for a three-game series against the Astros, and on May 2nd they will be back at Fenway for their home opener against Xander Bogaerts and the San Diego Padres.

Fan expectations are at a high level this season, as prospects like Mayer and Anthony and pitcher Garrett Crochet are expected to lead the team to another successful season, with the goal of a tenth World Series banner being flown at Fenway next March.

ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall

REPORTERS: Piper Browning, Jack Buckley, Teagan Freedman, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, Will Pelliciotti, London Perlow, Mary Prindiville

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Anna Baughman FACULTY ADVISOR:

Thomas Higgins

Students pitch their projects aimed at making a difference

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Last month, eighth graders at the Marblehead Community Charter Public School pitched community service learning projects to a panel of judges and fielded questions about their plans. The school calls it “Shark Week,” inspired by the TV show “Shark Tank,” where entrepreneurs pitch business ideas to investors.

The Current had the honor of sitting on a panel of judges.

The projects tackled a range of pressing local issues, including food insecurity, teen mental health, contamination in Redd’s Pond, installing solar panels at MCCPS, animal testing and welfare, laundry and hygiene access for students without resources at home, and using UV light to treat water contamination at King’s Beach.

Earlier in the school year, students worked together to identify challenges in their communities, research the impact of those challenges and design projects to address them. Students will spend the rest of the school year implementing their proposals.

“Community Service Learning is a program that is at the heart of our school’s mission,” said eighth-grade teacher Nick Santoro. “We offer our students the opportunity to address an issue that is meaningful to them and empower them with the tools and support they need to to make an impact on that issue.” He added, “Each of them will

enter high school equipped with the experience of a project manager and the passion of an activist, enabling them to be self determined and effective members of whichever community they join.”

Among the projects:

» Charlie Nothnagel, focusing on food insecurity in his hometown of Swampscott, is developing a directory of

community food resources to connect residents with nutritious options.

» Molly Koelewyn is creating an online resource about neurodivergency that young people can use themselves and share with others who have questions.

» Brailhaylz Vasques is developing a website to connect low-income residents with affordable mental health resources.

» Addeline Bryan and Chiara Dalgleish are gathering information about exotic animals kept as pets and creating materials to help owners identify options for rehoming animals that become too large or unmanageable.

» Colin Paradise,

and

are developing a plan to address contamination in

Pond.

The students will present summaries of their projects — and their impact — at the end of the school year.

Mateo Garcia

Leonedys Pena

Redd’s

COURTESY PHOTO

MCCPS eighth grader Molly Koelewyn speaks about her project on neurodivergence.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

MCCPS eighth grader Charlie Nothnagel talks about his project to help people who face food insecurity.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER Brailhaylz Vasques and teacher Nick Santoro address judges and students.

COURTESY PHOTO

MCCPS humanities teacher Nick Santoro talks with judges at the school’s Shark Tank community service learning project presentation.