05.27.2026 - Volume 4, Issue 27

2026 TOWN ELECTION

LETTERS

VOTER GUIDE

IN THIS ISSUE

NONPROFIT ORG PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

What your neighbors have to say about the June 9 election

Candidate profiles, Pages 6-9

PAID

MARBLEHEAD, MA PERMIT NO. 25

Page 4, 5, 9, 14 and 15

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

TM

MAY 27, 2026

|

VOLUME 4, ISSUE NO. 27

FIRST WAVE 1

Youth soccer league denounces racial slur at game. Page 2.

|

MARBLEHEADCURRENT.ORG

2

In new book, local author explores survival, shipwreck and the Pacific. Page 12

|

ON SOCIAL @MHDCURRENT

Brick Kitchen Events: 3 New 4 Current museum focuses Cod & Whales

on the humanity of enslaved people. Page 12.

auction to kick off, plus Beethoven’s Ninth live in town. Page 13.

come 5 Hundreds out to honor Marblehead’s war heroes. Page 18.

Five facts from this week’s Marblehead Current.

DECISIONS 2026

Ballot committee opposing overrides relies on inaccurate fiscal claims

BY LEIGH BLANDER As Marblehead heads towards what could be its first general (permanent) override in more than 20 years, a new group calling itself “Better Way Marblehead” is urging voters to reject override questions 1, 2 and 3 (for $9 million, $12 million and $15 million respectively) and to

support Question 4, the town’s $2.3 million trash override. The group is also calling for a special town meeting.

The election is Tuesday, June 9.

Resident John DiPiano, who led the campaign against MBTA Communities Law compliance in town, is the spokesperson for Better Way Marblehead.

The group filed a “statement of organization” at the Town Clerk’s Office on May 15. It names Sue MacInnis as chair and treasurer.

At the May 4 Town Meeting, voters approved sending a multiyear, three-tier override to the ballot box. The override tiers are aimed at restoring deep cuts to staff and services in the fiscal

year 2027 budget, rebuilding town programs and investing in capital projects.

In a media release sent to the Current, Better Way Marblehead claims the town hasn’t done its due diligence in cutting costs and finding efficiencies.

“The town has not pursued available cost-saving options, including union-proposed

EN PLEIN AIR

healthcare reforms, and cannot guarantee the funds will be spent as promised,” the release reads.

“A special town meeting, convened after June 9, is the accountable path forward,” according to Better Way Marblehead’s website. “It puts voters in the room, on the OVERRIDE, P. 9

HOUSING

Annual Paint Out draws artists Residents weigh options from around New England for former Coffin site

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Bob Noreika paints the landscape of Little Harbor as he stands at his easel on the beach.

BY GREY COLLINS Last week, the Old & Historic District was transformed into a scene from 19th-century France — though with fishing shanties and beaches instead of poppy fields — as painters stood over their easels in the open air and serenely dabbed paint onto their canvases.

Twenty plein air painters — practicing the art of outdoor painting popularized by 1800s French impressionists — arrived May 20 from around New England for Marblehead’s annual Paint Out. The artists spent the next few days “plein air painting” around town in

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

the warm weather, capturing scenes of Marblehead’s beaches, harbor, colonial-era streets and even the fishing shanties near Fort Beach.

The event, organized by Gene Arnould, has become a longstanding tradition in Marblehead. According to Arnould, the Paint Out first began back in 2006 when a French artist, Yves Parent, sailed into Marblehead with a group called the Plein Air Painters New England, to paint outdoor scenes in Marblehead and display their work at the Arnould Gallery. Since then, the same group of painters from around New England has made the annual pilgrimage to the Arnould Gallery

COURRENT PHOTO / GREY COLLINS

every May. “They’re a great group of people and they love painting together.

They’ve known each other for decades, and it’s amazing to see what they produce,” said Arnould.

On Friday afternoon, the artists brought their work to the Arnould Gallery, 111 Washington St. The pieces will be on display through July 4.

“I really like seeing whatever everybody produces at the opening,” said Bob Noreika, an artist from Connecticut who has been coming to the Paint Out for 12 years. “It was enlightening.”

To see more photos from the Paint Out, visit MarbleheadCurrent.org.

Residents packed a public forum May 20 to discuss possible redevelopment options for the former Coffin School site, as consultants presented three conceptual scenarios ranging from 10 to 22 housing units.

The meeting, which included two representatives from the University of Connecticut’s Technical Assistance to Brownfields program, focused on how the Turner Road property could potentially be reused while balancing neighborhood concerns, housing needs and open space.

“These are not construction plans,” emphasized Kate Malgiolio with UConn TAB. “This is a plan for the town to move forward with, understanding what the community likes and doesn’t like.”

The consultants presented three redevelopment concepts. Scenario A proposed reusing the original Coffin School building for about 16 units, plus three duplexes, for a total of 22 housing units.

Scenario B envisioned a mix of singlefamily homes and duplexes totaling 18 units.

Scenario C would create 10 single-family homes that fully comply with existing zoning regulations.

Consultants said Scenario A would preserve the original building while demolishing the annex. Scenarios B and C would involve full demolition of the existing structure.

Much of the discussion centered on survey results collected from 103 residents between March and April. According to the consultants, 83% of respondents preferred housing in some form for the site, with 42% COFFIN, P. 2

marbleheadcurrent.org

2 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

OUT OF BOUNDS

Youth Soccer group denounces racial slurs at recent game

BY LEIGH BLANDER The Marblehead Youth Soccer Association sent a letter to its families May 15, alerting them to several “unfortunate events” at recent games, including one where spectators and players were “directing racial slurs at an opponent.”

“The reports from our

opponents of this situation are difficult to read,” the email from the MYSA Board reads. “They make us sad and embarrassed…

There is no place in youth sports, or in our society, for comments that attack a human being’s race or belonging.

Similarly, there is no place for foul language.”

The email continues: “As a

community we need to focus on what we can control. Clearly our own behavior is within our control. Going forward, we ask that all players, coaches and spectators be cognizant of their own behavior and be sure that it is maintained to a standard that you would be proud to see on video.

MYSA leadership is treating all of these incidents with the utmost

seriousness. In accordance with our Zero-Tolerance Policy, MYSA has implemented measures to facilitate learning from these incidents and to prevent any future recurrence.”

MYSA is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. It welcomes hundreds of players each season, from kindergarten through high school.

NEWS IN BRIEF Send your news to info@ marbleheadnews.org.

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Tuesdays, 9-11 a.m.

Goloboy goodbye

Call for fireworks display donations The town’s Fireworks Committee is planning a special show this July 4 to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday, and it is looking for donations.

Marblehead’s fireworks show is consistently voted “top 10 in the country by Coastal Living Magazine,” according to the committee.

Donations can be sent via check payable to the Town of Marblehead, with “fireworks” in the memo line, mailed to Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St. It is a tax-deductible contribution.

Other ways to donate include: » Via a separate 501(c)(3), the Friends of the Marblehead Fireworks, online at fireworksforever.org » Using @marbleheadfireworks on Venmo » Your donor-advised fund by searching for EIN 46-4756810

COURTESY PHOTO / LAURIE SWOPE

The Rotary Club of Marblehead presented scholarships to several Marblehead students on May 21. Shown here: Rotary Scholarship Committee Chair Nancy Gwin, Grey Collins, Eliza Kay, committee member Ed Nilsson, Chloe Rowland, Eldar Yahorau, Will Cruikshank, committee member Brian Snell and Rotary Club President Aviv Hood.

Heat pump pizza party with HeatSmart CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

MHTV President Bob Peck presents retired general manager Joan Goloboy with special honors from the state Legislature. » 24 oz. cooking oil » 15 oz. mayo » 8 oz. mustard » 20 oz. ketchup » ground coffee » shelf-stable milk » Ritz and Saltine crackers » individual applesauce cups » Ensure

People can also leave nonperishable food items, paper goods and toiletries at the Masonic Lodge, 62 Pleasant St. Turn down into the driveway to the right of the building and look for a sign near the entrance to the walkway into the building.

Donations can be dropped off

Coffin From P. 1

specifically supporting senior housing. Affordable housing, workforce housing and housing for veterans were also mentioned.

The survey also showed strong support for preserving open space and adding amenities such as playgrounds and a dog park.

“The biggest overall lesson or key takeaway from the survey was that neighborhood fit is critical,” said consultant Katie Kelley. “The survey showed strong support specifically for housing that was small scale, that was affordable for Marblehead residents, that was well designed, that fit in well with the surrounding neighborhood and area.”

But several residents questioned whether the survey results accurately reflected broader community opinion.

“You only got 103 responses,” one resident said during the meeting. “This is a town of 20,000 people.”

Another resident argued that neighbors closest to the property should have greater input.

“The people most affected by this shouldn’t live with decisions based on 103 responses,” the resident said.

Parking, traffic and density emerged as recurring concerns throughout the discussion.

Several residents warned that redevelopment could intensify congestion in the neighborhood,

Rotary scholarships

The Rotary Club presented its annual scholarships to Marblehead students on May 21 at the Boston Yacht Club.

Grey Collins, Eliza Kay, Chloe Rowland, Eldar Yahorau and Will Cruikshank each won a $5,000 award. The Rotary also awarded $10,000 in camperships this year.

Food Pantry needs you

The Marblehead Food Pantry has a new, easy way people can donate. Shop at https://loom.ly/ sfaBHoI and Amazon will deliver your donations. (The option to ship to the Food Pantry will appear at the start of the checkout process.) Here’s a list of what’s needed most, according to Food Pantry President Marcy Schwam: » 2 lb. bags of white rice » 2 lb. flour » 2 lb. sugar » pasta » pasta sauce

Newly retired MHTV General Manager Joan Goloboy received special citations from the Massachusetts House and Senate on May 20 for her years of service leading the public access TV station here in town. Goloboy led MHTV since 2011, during which time the station won many prestigious awards, including Best Small Market Station in the Nation and Overall Excellence in the Northeast Region.

Dozens of people gathered for Goloboy’s retirement party, including MHTV’s new General Manager Brian Hebert.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Director Brendan Callahan addresses a crowd about the Coffin School re-use proposals, along with consultants with the University of Connecticut.

while others argued the former school generated relatively little traffic outside pickup and drop-off times.

Residents also raised concerns about the site’s physical challenges, including steep slopes, underground springs and possible ledge.

“There’s a mountain of unused bricks that were just pushed with the bulldozer and buried over with dirt,” one resident said.

“I don’t see how some of these land.”

Consultants acknowledged the site’s limitations and emphasized that further engineering and soil studies would be required before any development could move forward.

The property’s asbestos contamination also drew attention. Officials said the estimated cost of asbestos abatement alone is less than

$150,000, while demolition of the annex could cost about $500,000 and demolition of both buildings about $1 million.

Some residents focused on the town’s broader housing needs.

“I do believe that it is the responsibility of the town to create housing for seniors, affordable housing,” one resident said. “I am personally against the single-family housing.”

Others worried that a developer would ultimately build 40B housing, like on Tioga Way. “That’s what we don’t want,” one resident said.

Resident David Modica, whose Town Meeting comments about Marblehead’s MBTA Communities Law compliance plan went viral, was in the audience.

He said the May 20 debate highlighted broader tensions in Marblehead over housing and

Curious about how to lower your energy bills and carbon footprint with heat pumps?

Come to the Council on Aging, 10 Humphrey St., on June 5, 11:30 a.m. and Learn about the benefits of heat pumps as a sustainable alternative for home heating and cooling. You’ll also hear how heat pumps work and the alternatives available to help pay for them. RSVP by calling 781-631-6225.

development.

“People said they wanted senior and affordable housing,” Modica said. “But then people also don’t want affordable housing.”

Modica said he believes many residents remain resistant to significant change at the site.

“I don’t think these people want to build anything, because they don’t want noise,” he said.

He also questioned whether the town can continue limiting housing opportunities while maintaining its workforce and tax base.

“We can’t be a town for old people. We can’t only build senior housing,” Modica said.

Modica argued that many workers who serve the community can no longer afford to live in town.

“We have guys who drive from New Hampshire,” he said, referring to some workers who commute to Marblehead.

He also expressed frustration with what he sees as resistance to new housing.

Brendan Callahan, director of the town’s Community Development and Planning Department, repeatedly emphasized that the concepts shown were preliminary and that no final decision has been made about the site’s future. The Select Board will review feedback from the forum and determine next steps, which could include additional due diligence or issuing a request for proposals from developers.

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT. CHAIR AND PRESIDENT

Bob Peck NEWSROOM Editor - Leigh Blander

lblander@marbleheadnews.org

Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

Sports Reporter Joe McConnell

jmcconnell@marbleheadnews.org

CONTRIBUTORS

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

Grey Collins Aleka Kroitzsh Luca Tedesco Akanksha Goyal

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Gene Arnould Brian Birke Bob Peck Donna Rice Mark Schwartz Richard Weed - Treasurer EDITORIAL BOARD

Peter Fallon Joseph P. Kahn Kris Olson Bob Peck Mark Schwartz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kathryn Whorf FOUNDERS

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

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

DONATE

Help us deliver sustainable local journalism. Please consider supporting the Marblehead Current by making a tax-deductible donation at marbleheadcurrent.org/donate.

For stock transfer donations, please contact: Kathryn Whorf at kwhorf@ marbleheadnews.org.

Marblehead News Group, Inc., the organization that publishes the Current, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. EIN: 88-2367192

ADVERTISE

Advertising is available on our website and in our weekly printed newspaper. To learn more, visit www.marbleheadCurrent.org/ads.

VOLUNTEER

Join us. We invite you to help support our effort to establish and maintain a free press for a strong community.

To get involved, visit www. marbleheadCurrent.org/volunteer.

REACT

We’re standing by to listen to your ideas. Please drop us a line and let us know what you would like to see in your community newspaper. Send your thoughts to info@marbleheadnews.org.

IN MEMORIAM

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

Help keep the Current coming by scanning this QR code.

Thank you!

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 3

COURTESY PHOTO / BEANIE EISSNER

RAIL TRAIL SIGHTING

Milking the moment

BY LEIGH BLANDER Beanie Eissner was walking the Rail Trail near Village Street last week when she spotted this orange, black and white snake making its way across the path.

Luckily, milk snakes are not venomous.

“This guy (or gal) was totally minding his/her own business, just slithering along the trail,” Eissner wrote on social media. “Totally un-bothered when I stopped to take a pic. I see these snakes at least a couple times a year on the trail.”

One ride.

One neighbor.

One big difference.

It’s easy to volunteer with Seaglass Village! Help a neighbor and see what a difference you can make.

Call today!

781-718-0401

MARBLEHEAD • NAHANT • SWAMPSCOTT VINNIN SQUARE www.seaglassvillage.org info@seaglassvillage.org

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

marbleheadcurrent.org

4 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

Remembering their sacrifice “That nation which respects and honors its dead, shall ever be respected and honored itself.”

— Brevet Lt. Col. Edmund B. Whitman, 1868.

English journalist, novelist and poet G.K. Chesterton once wrote, “The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him but because he loves what is behind him.”

In other words, the true soldier is devoted to his country, his family and to protecting the values that are cherished and held dear.

As it has for over 150 years, Marblehead celebrated Memorial Day on Monday.

The town honored those who fought and sacrificed their lives and paid the ultimate price so that we might live in a place of equal opportunity, democratic selfgovernance, the rule of law, and peace and

prosperity.

Unfortunately, these ideals are threatened around the world and here at home. What we once thought were solid, stable American traditions and values that have withstood the test of time are now under attack by institutions, groups of citizens and individuals who are trying to erode the foundations of our democracy.

A visit to Memorial Park plainly yet respectfully honors those from Marblehead who fought and died in the Civil War through the War on Terror, upholding the principles upon which our nation is built. » The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument honors 138 men who died during the Civil War. » The World War I Memorial lists the six individuals who “gave their lives for their country during the Great World

War.” » The World War II and Korean War

Monument bears the names of 46 Marbleheaders who died during World War II and four who were killed during the Korean War. » The Vietnam Veterans Memorial shows nine men killed in action during the Vietnam War. » The War on Terror monument features the three men who gave their lives in this cause.

Two hundred and six men and women bravely gave their lives facing hardship and danger so that we may enjoy “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” as articulated in the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago.

Some consider Memorial Day the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time when we fire up our grills, pack our cars with beach gear, or hit the roads knowing

we have an extra day away from home.

The waterfront is active again with races and regattas lasting into the fall.

The ceremonies, services, parades and reenactments Marblehead hosted around Memorial Day were solemn, respectful ways to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for others.

Let us not let the fun and enjoyment of summer overshadow the memory of the 206 men and women who fought and died for us.

We can also honor these men and women through political action and civic engagement, starting with our local elections and override questions in a couple of weeks. Voter turnout is key to a democracy that is robust and healthy.

As another summer begins in Marblehead, may we enjoy the company of family and friends, seek peace in the world and always remember those who came before us and sacrificed their lives so that we may live as our Founding Fathers intended.

GUEST COLUMN

FinCom member: ‘What voters should know before June 9’

BY MOLLY TEETS On Tuesday, June 9, Marblehead voters will weigh in on a tiered general override (Questions 1, 2 and 3) to address the town’s $7.7 million operating budget deficit. As a member of the Finance Committee during this most challenging budget season, I have been deeply involved in the FY27 budget process and actively advised town leadership in the development of the override.

For several years, the Finance Committee has been predicting the fiscal cliff we now face.

The structural deficit our town faces is not the result of fiscal mismanagement. In fact, we should commend town leaders for stretching our last general override to its absolute limit. But after 21 years, in an environment where costs are rising faster than our revenue, providing the services residents are accustomed to is simply not possible without a general override.

We face a critical choice: pass an override or make painful cuts that significantly reduce the services provided to Marblehead

residents.

The FY27 budget and override proposal are based on detailed financial analyses and long-term projections developed under the leadership of Alec Goolsby, Finance Committee chair. As a direct result of his time, effort and expertise, the town’s budget is now significantly more accurate, functional and transparent.

The budget now reflects the town’s true operating costs, and we are building reserves in our Stabilization Fund. This practice promotes budget transparency and is in line with recommendations of the state Department of Revenue and budgetary best practices.

Before proposing an override, town leadership worked hard to find sustainable solutions to address our structural budget deficit. These included identifying new revenue sources, tapping into revolving funds, increasing user fees, finding efficiencies and cutting costs.

Under the steady and thoughtful leadership of our current School Committee, Superintendent John Robidoux and his team have right-sized the district’s cost structure to reflect declining student enrollment. As

a Finance Committee member, I will continue to push town leaders and department heads to find operating efficiencies and pursue new revenue sources. But the reality is that our structural deficit cannot be solved using those tools alone.

The balanced budget approved at Town Meeting represents countless hours of work by elected and appointed officials, our department heads and the Finance Committee. Together, leadership made extremely difficult decisions centered around the Select Board’s prioritization of public safety and infrastructure over other town services. These cuts are real, they will happen if an override is not passed, and they will impact residents townwide.

Unlike the divisive and contentious budget seasons of prior years, the FY27 budget and override proposals are the product of an effective and productive collaboration between the Select Board, School Committee, and Finance Committee, driven by a longterm strategic view. This is how well-run towns operate.

A challenge as complex as our structural deficit cannot be addressed by boards or

commissions working in silos.

Addressing Marblehead’s structural deficit is not an easy, one-year fix, which is why the June 9 ballot offers three options for phased, focused implementation of a general override tax increase. The choice of which to approve is up to Marblehead voters; only one would take effect. All require yearly Town Meeting approval of the town’s next fiscal year budget, keeping residents in control while holding town leaders and departments accountable for their budget expenditures.

As an example, I’ll describe the middle of the three questions on the June 9 ballot. While Question 2’s $12 million figure represents a headline-grabbing number, remember it does not come due all at once.

Instead, it is a targeted, phased implementation over three years: Year 1, $2.8M; Year 2, $6.7M; and Year 3, $2.5M. In this multi-year model, the traditional role of Town Meeting is unchanged. For each of Questions 1, 2 and 3, annual Town Meeting must approve how the tax increase is allocated in the next fiscal year.

This structured, disciplined approach to an incremental

tax increase compels town leadership to plan ahead more proactively and with increased transparency. It also reduces the uncertainty that our department heads and valued employees face from back-to-back, oneyear overrides. It’s difficult to retain employees in the best of situations, let alone in an environment where their jobs are potentially at risk each year.

This multi-year approach also allows residents to plan for increases in property taxes and gives eligible residents time to pursue tax relief options.

While our town’s fiscal transparency and budgeting have markedly improved in the last few years, there are still meaningful changes to be made for our town to operate as efficiently as possible while improving services to residents. Accomplishing this will take time and continued collaboration across elected boards and commissions.

On June 9, I will be voting YES on Questions 1, 2 and 3, and I will be voting for the candidates with a record of and a commitment to collaborative leadership.

Molly Teets is a member of the Finance Committee.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Anti-override group makes misleading claims To the editor: Recently an anti-override group released a position paper opposing a general override and proposing an alternative way forward. While we appreciate that residents are asking tough questions about the override, the paper presents a number of misleading claims and unrealistic assumptions.

First, it repeatedly refers to a supposed $1.5 million “surplus” in Question 4 that can simply be redirected to restore services. That is inaccurate. Those funds are already accounted for in the budget that overwhelmingly passed at Town Meeting. Suggesting they can simultaneously fund existing operations and restore additional services amounts to double counting, nevermind the fact that the language of the ballot question allocates those funds exclusively to trash collection.

Second, the reported tax impacts are either incorrectly calculated or intentionally misleading.

The override proposals are phased in over three years, meaning residents do not pay the full increase immediately.

The full tax impact is not reached until FY29. This has been repeatedly communicated by town leadership and publicly documented. Despite that, the opposition presents tax calculations as if homeowners are paying the entire increase in years one and two.

As a result, they overstate the impact of Question 3 on the average home by roughly $1,400 in year one and $500 in year two. Those are not small errors.

They fundamentally misrepresent what residents would actually pay.

Third, a criticism lodged against the override proposals is that they provide no additional school funding FY27. Yes, this is true. It is also the fiscally responsible approach. The schools are intentionally minimizing the immediate impact on taxpayers while preparing for known future obligations, including collective

bargaining increases and other ongoing operating pressures in FY28 and beyond.

Multi-year planning is responsible budgeting and it’s why we have an override on the ballot that addresses future needs.

Lastly, and perhaps most fundamental, Marblehead's budget problems are structural. Rising labor costs, healthcare, special education, deferred maintenance and aging infrastructure aren’t one-time expenses. They come back every year. For decades, Marblehead has managed these growing obligations by delaying repairs, underfunding long-term needs and relying on temporary fixes. The bill for years of delay has now come due.

The override in front of voters is the result of thoughtful planning, deliberation and communication. It includes commitments to manage spending at set levels and provide increased transparency. It passed overwhelmingly at Town Meeting. Now it’s time to vote.

On Tuesday, June 9, vote ‘yes’ on Question 1, ‘yes’ on Question 2 AND ‘yes’

on Question 3 to fund the town we love.

Learn why on our website: formarblehead.org.

Matt Hooks, Nanepashemet Street Kate Thomson, Bubier Road For Marblehead, co-chairs

Marblehead has paid lower property taxes for years To the editor: With the June 9 override vote approaching, it is important to consider how Marblehead compares to similar communities. For more than 21 years, Marblehead avoided a general override.

As a result, our tax burden is now among the lowest of our peers.

Today, Marblehead’s average singlefamily tax bill is approximately $11,100 per year, ranking 16th out of 17 comparable communities according to data from the state Department of Revenue website.

LETTERS, P. 5

marbleheadcurrent.org

Letters From P. 4

If Question 3 and the trash override both pass, the average tax bill would rise to about $13,600 — still below the peer community average of roughly $14,600. Importantly, this estimate assumes the full override is added immediately using current home values.

In reality, the override phases in over three years while surrounding communities will continue seeing tax increases as well.

Reasonable people can debate spending priorities, but the data makes one thing clear: Marblehead’s financial challenges are not the result of mismanagement. They are the predictable result of trying to provide the services residents expect while collecting substantially less in taxes than comparable communities.

Ross Patterson Pinecliff Drive

Modica: Override gives us an opportunity To the editor: Although the discussion of 3A became the focus of my presence at Town Meeting, the primary reason I — and I suspect many others — wanted to attend the meeting was because of the override vote.

In the weeks since my comments at Town Meeting were posted to the internet, one unfortunate consequence has been a characterization of Marblehead that I feel is unfair.

My experience over 30 or so years in Marblehead has been that it is a wonderful and friendly place with a strong sense of community. I feel it when a group of neighbors helps an older resident dig out his car or when a group of high school kids patiently talks with my 4-year-old niece while we wait in line at the carnival, and I’ve felt that even more clearly the past few weeks.

My reasons for speaking up about housing and about this are the same. I want other people to experience the Marblehead that I have been so fortunate to.

It would be one thing if the cause of this budget issue was some sort of frivolity, or if there were obvious and easy cuts we could make. But I think that years of financial reports predicting this situation and a pattern of similar issues in other towns makes it clear that there is no magical fix. This can was kicked for many years, and now the bill is coming due.

The downsides to paying more taxes are quite obvious, but the cost of doing nothing is not nothing. There is a false frugality to letting the town we live in degrade rather than pay for its upkeep. Today’s maintenance prevents tomorrow’s messes, and investment in infrastructure prevents us from needing the patchwork fixes we have seen in the past.

While this override was conceived from a crisis, it provides each of us with the opportunity to invest in this town once again, as we have all done before when we chose to live here, buy homes here or even raise children here.

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 5

I will be voting “yes” on Questions 1, 2 and 3.

David Modica Bayview Road

Former school super endorses Clucas, Jordan To the editor: Last year at this time, the voters of Marblehead overwhelmingly voted for a major change in a School Committee membership desperate for change. Two incumbents each lost by approximately 4,000 votes to two newcomers. In early summer, another incumbent resigned, allowing for a third newcomer to be appointed.

Melissa Clucas was that appointee that created a new majority. The change has been positive and dramatic, more than you might reasonably expect.

Melissa Clucas was quickly recognized for her fiscal acumen consistent with being a corporate chief financial officer.

She is a strategic financial planner. She understood that we were facing a multi-year dilemma, and so for the first time in Marblehead history a three-year perspective for the school and town budgets is being offered through the override process.

More than the obvious fiscal talents, she has proven to be a great communicator and so with less than a year on the School Committee she was selected to present this complex multiyear perspective at the Town Meeting alongside a municipal representative.

Of equal importance was her role as a team player on the School Committee. Several letters recently highlight the brand new culture of the School Committee that now offers a dramatically new open and welcoming attitude in its deliberations. We cannot return to the past when so much has been done in just one year.

Ann-Marie Jordan offers the community the opportunity to advance the gains being made at the School Committee level. A career educator, recently retired, she brings the perspective of a public school teacher and program coordinator. She was an experienced presenter at her district’s School Committee meeting as an administrator and policy maker. She has the warm personality and welcoming style that this new School Committee thrives on.

Ms. Jordan has been a Marbleheader for much longer than my 30 years in town. Her family is an integral part of our community. Her husband has run a business in Marblehead seemingly his entire life. Her two children are MHS graduates and successful college graduates.

Since her retirement, she has served as a short-term substitute teacher in our schools and fully understands Marblehead and its nuances. A vote for her on election day is something I enthusiastically endorse.

The only other choice for School Committee is Sarah Fox. She lost by 4,000 votes last June and was rejected by the joint meeting of the Select Board and School Committee members that wisely appointed Melissa Clucas. Sarah Fox constantly harps on her six years experience

on the School Committee.

From my perspective as the former nine-year Marblehead superintendent of schools, it was the worst six years I have seen in my 31 years living and observing in town.

This is not opinion but fact.

Look at her record. One of two School Committee members on the collective bargaining team that led us into the first and hopefully last teacher strike in our history. One of two School Committee members that wrote the abominable Flag Policy that took forever and is a total failure. Part of the leadership that turned over superintendents and administrators in volume. Part of a School Committee that created the budget situation we are still trying to overcome with this year’s override.

More than these failures was the arrogant disregard for the public’s demand for information and open participation in school deliberations. Look to her May 6 letter to the editor to see the negative vitriol pointed to Melissa Clucas as she describes her as “callous” not once but twice. That letter uses the “twisted truth” that was a hallmark of her years of service.

She talks in great length about an alleged negative vote on the issue of user fees. She would lead you to believe Ms. Clucas voted against user fees. Nay, Nay. The real truth is Ms. Clucas voted not against the $500,000 revenue but against an increase of 3% ($15,000) after surveying other towns and finding out that Marblehead already had very high fees. User fees are an EQUITY issue. It favors students from wealthy families and decreases opportunities from poorer families. They contribute to the idea that Marblehead is a town for the privileged.

In sum, if the schools are to continue the dramatic and visual upward spiral of the present, vote for Clucas and Jordan on June 9. Don’t send us back to the past!

Dr. Philip Devaux Santry Road Former Marblehead superintendent of schools (nine years)

A vote to continue School Committee momentum To the editor: I love Marblehead. I am proud to call this town my family’s home. And we weathered a storm in our amazing seaside community with our town’s leadership for the last few years, and we are finally coming out on the other side. Why is that? Because our friends and neighbors overwhelmingly voted for change last year, and we need to continue that change in June’s election.

Our School Committee is making strides in the right direction. I credit the positive momentum to the new people with innovative ideas and refreshing perspectives to move our schools forward. We have a terrific superintendent, John Robidoux, with stable leadership.

He is committed to us, and we are committed to him.

And because of all of these factors, I support electing Melissa Clucas and Ann-Marie Jordan to the School Committee.

Melissa is an asset to our town, and we are lucky to have her. Her keen understanding of finance and clear communication skills were on display at Town Meeting. As a CFO in her professional life and a mom of three, we are lucky that she gives her time to better our town.

Ann-Marie Jordan is a lifelong educator and spent her entire career in public education. It’s a perspective we all want for the School Committee. AnnMarie can provide the voice

of the educators and school administrators to gain buy-in and understanding. She may be a self proclaimed “newbie,” but she brings a fresh perspective that will continue the wave of change that we started last year.

Let’s keep the positive momentum moving forward.

With so many opinions about the override, we need financially savvy brains on the School Committee with a well-running, collegial group who only want the best for our town and our kids.

Please join me in supporting Melissa, Ann Marie and the override.

Renée Sidman Village Street

Senior housing resident a “yes” on override To the editor: As an 87-year-old resident of senior subsidized housing in Marblehead, I am voting in support of Questions 1, 2 and 3 in the election on Tuesday, June 9. I believe these measures will help strengthen our community and contribute to a better Marblehead for residents of all ages.

I care deeply about the future of our town and believe supporting these questions is an investment in maintaining the quality of life that makes Marblehead such a special place to live. Please vote yes on Questions 1, 2 and 3 on Tuesday, June 9.

Sincerely, Sandra Winter Farrell Court

Why I’m running for Board of Health To the editor: I am running for the Marblehead Board of Health because I care deeply about the health, safety and wellbeing of our community. As an anesthesiologist for over 25 years, I’ve been focused on the safety of thousands of patients in the operating room during what are often the most stressful moments in their lives. I find that successful outcomes take close collaboration with my healthcare colleagues and clear communication with everyone.

Also essential is decision making guided by science, ethics, what’s practical and input from patients and their families. As a board member, I will bring this kind of mindset for collaboration inside and outside the board and for decision making on behalf of all of us.

At the top of my priorities will be the mental well-being of our residents. I applaud the work of the current board on this front, which includes a recently completed wellness survey of our community. That survey showed mental health as a top concern across all age groups.

I am especially passionate about this priority given mental health challenges I have seen with my patients, friends and family, which have included depression, anxiety, dementia, bipolar disorders, loss of loved ones, substance abuse and more.

I will be strongly committed to advancing the board’s work on community mental health.

Another priority is reinforcing public health vigilance and communication as new threats emerge. For example, kratom, a potentially dangerous substance, has been making its way across Massachusetts with availability in convenience stores, gas stations and smoke shops. I believe Marblehead should regulate kratom, as many other towns are doing, and I will be a leader in bringing this before the board for review and action.

On a personal note, my family has lived in Marblehead since 2013. My husband and I are proud to have raised two

children here, with our youngest graduating from Marblehead High School in 2025. We are familiar with difficulties adolescents and their families encounter, including mental health, academic stress, peer pressure to attend parties and the like. I am grateful for this opportunity to introduce myself as a candidate for our Board of Health. I would be honored for your vote on June 9. Further information is available at julieforhealth.com.

Julie Selbst, M.D. Nanepashemet Street

A vote in their memory To the editor: In memory of…

Last week, this retired Marblehead teacher-coach (middle and high school history and head baseball and softball and assistant basketball coach) attended Barbara Kulevich’s meaningful and memorable funeral at Star of the Sea Church. Barbara’s son, Tom, and her daughters, Mary-Beth and Jo-Mary, delivered masterfully a three-part eulogy that captured the true essence of their mother, one of Marblehead’s finest residents who made our town a better place in which to live.

In the days following the funeral, I have given some thought to some other departed individuals who have also contributed much to the wellbeing of our beloved community as well, knowing that I am only scratching the surface. They are Judy and Gene Jacobi, Virginia Gamage and Priscilla Lord, teachers Debbie Caulkins and Ann Cohen, doctors Stanford Hopkins, George MacDonald and Chuck Louden, coaches Brad Sheridan and Trim Robarts.

I leave it to you, dear readers, to select a few individuals that could be added to this list.

At this point, you might be asking what is this writer’s purpose. Well, it involves the three-tiered override, for which we will be casting our ballots on June 9. I sincerely believe that the folks listed in the above paragraph, if they were still alive, would be voting for the override tier that would do the most for our community’s future. With that said, consider casting your votes in memory of people who no longer live among us but gave of themselves to make Marblehead the town we love so much today.

If you are thinking about voting for Tier 3 as am I, remember to also vote for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in order to guarantee that we have helped Marblehead’s future well-being.

Roger Tuveson Vine Street

Why I’m running for Select Board To the editor: People often ask me, “Why do you want to spend your spare time volunteering for the town?” or “Why do you want to get involved in the town’s challenges?”

We need more residents willing to participate, listen and collaborate for the greater good; this civic engagement supports the people’s voice. Public service is not about agendas or politics. Serving on the Planning Board, Recreation and Parks Commission, and Town Charter Committee has deepened my appreciation for thoughtful leadership, collaboration and fact-based decision making in local government.

A decentralized government like Marblehead works best when people with different perspectives get involved, focus on solutions instead of division and make decisions grounded in facts and long-term planning.

So why do I spend my spare LETTERS, P. 9

marbleheadcurrent.org

6 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

2026 TOWN ELECTION

CANDIDATES GUIDE, Part two

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Each year, the Current provides a Candidates Guide to help Marblehead voters make informed decisions at the town’s spring election. This year, voters head to the ballot box on June 9 to decide several contested races, as well as four override questions. Here is the second installment of our Candidates Guide.

FOR SCHOOL COMMITTEE 3 CANDIDATES FOR 2 SEATS Melissa Clucas

rather than forcing any personal agenda.

School Committee member appointed in September 2025, sits on budget, bargaining and communications subcommittees; CFO of software firm

Do you support the override this June? Which tier will you vote for?

Yes, I support the override, and I’ll be voting Tier 3. I’ve spent the last six months inside this budget: working through the override working group, analyzing cost drivers and helping shape the MOU that the Select Board, School Committee and Finance Committee all voted on.

Tier 3 isn’t a wish list. It’s the invest-and-improve tier — the $15M option that goes beyond restoring cuts to actually building back. That means capital funding for the town and schools, mental health resources, additional public safety staffing and a special education program for 18-22-year-olds. These are things that get more expensive the longer we ignore them.

All three boards have committed not to return to voters for at least three years. I’ve done the work to understand what’s behind these numbers, and I believe Marblehead is ready to invest in itself. That’s why I’m voting Tier 3.

If elected, what are your top three goals during your term?

First, hold ourselves accountable on override commitments. If the override passes, the MOU between the School Committee, Select Board and Finance Committee becomes the foundation for how we hold ourselves accountable.

I want to be directly involved in tracking implementation and reporting back to the community, not letting that document sit in a drawer.

Second, restore trust through consistent, plain-language communication. I’ve been publishing regular School Committee updates since being appointed, and I’ll keep doing it. Residents shouldn’t have to attend multiple meetings a month to understand what’s happening in their schools.

Third, bring financial rigor to major decisions in front of the committee. I’ve spent my career as a CFO stress-testing budgets, negotiating contracts and asking the questions that don’t have easy answers. That’s what I’ve been doing on this committee since I was appointed, and it’s what I’ll keep doing.

What can the School Committee do to reverse the enrollment drop?

Most of the forces driving enrollment down aren’t within the School Committee’s direct control. Since 2016-17, enrollment has declined from 3,144 students to a projected 2,389 — a 24% drop — driven by lower birth rates, an aging population and limited new family housing. Public school participation has held steady at 76-79% of school-aged residents for nearly a decade.

The households that filled our classrooms have aged out.

That said, 215 Marblehead students transferred out of MPS during 2024-25, which is the highest number since COVID, with private schools representing the largest

Ann-Marie Jordan

Retired educator, integrated preschool director

Melissa Clucas

Sarah Fox

Ann-Marie Jordan

destination. That’s the part we can actually influence.

What I’d focus on: understanding why families leave, not just that they do. The admin team has begun doing exit interviews, and I want to make sure that becomes systematic, not anecdotal. We also need to close a real perception gap.

Marblehead High ranks in the top 20% of Massachusetts public schools, with a 99% graduation rate and MCAS scores 15 points above the state average. Families choosing private options don’t always know that. Part of the School Committee’s job is telling that story clearly and early — before families have already made up their minds.

The other place I’d focus is transition years. We lose students disproportionately at the elementary-to-middle and middle-to-high school inflection points. I want to understand what’s driving that — whether it’s program offerings, perception or something else — and address it directly rather than just watching the numbers.

they’re embedded in how the district actually operates.

surveys with any family choosing to leave the Marblehead Public Schools to better understand what is driving families to leave as a first step to fixing the problem.

I am committed to focusing on meeting student needs to maximize student achievement, keeping in mind that success looks different for each student.

Once we can re-establish a student-focused approach to all decision making at the School Committee level, I believe enrollment will start to stabilize.

Is the district’s budget rightsized given FY27 cuts?

For the most part, yes, and that’s a credit to the work the superintendent and his team have done. The position reductions made in FY27 reflect a genuine effort to rightsize staffing for current and projected enrollment. That work was careful and data-driven, and I think the district is in a defensible place on headcount.

The part that isn’t right-sized is the $1.5M one-time special education prepayment we’re using to balance this year’s budget. That’s a one-time fix that cannot be repeated next year. So while the budget looks balanced on paper, we have a structural hole we’re papering over. That’s exactly why the override matters. Without new recurring revenue, FY28 starts with that gap already baked in.

In a time of tight budget constraints, at least four districts in Massachusetts have cut DEI initiatives or positions, according to a recent story in CommonWealth Beacon.

Should such initiatives or positions be a priority in the Marblehead Public Schools budget process? Why or why not?

Yes. Our district includes METCO students and a growing share of high-needs learners.

Ensuring every student has access to a rigorous, supportive education isn’t a political position; it’s the core job.

What I’d push back on is treating DEI as a line item that’s easy to cut when budgets get tight. The most durable equity work isn’t in a standalone coordinator role; it’s in curriculum, hiring and how we train and support educators.

Those are harder to cut because

Sarah Fox

Former, two-term School Committee member; sat on several subcommittees, including budget

Do you support the override this June? Which tier will you vote for and why?

Having a vast amount of budgeting experience, I believe Marblehead’s tax levy capacity needs to grow as it has not kept pace with costs such as health insurance, contractual increases and other fixed costs. I continue to dig into the publicly available information on what is specifically funded in each tier to better understand how each tier provides for the citizens of Marblehead.

I am troubled by what appears to have been a rushed process to develop the override rather than the proactive, thoughtful approach that I believe should have occurred, given how this structural deficit has been discussed at length for years.

I will be attending available public forums and digging into available documents as they continue to become available so I can make an educated decision on June 9 on what will best serve the students and citizens of Marblehead.

If you’re elected, what are your top three goals for Marblehead schools during your term?

If elected, my primary goal would be to continue the work I previously started to bring further transparency and accountability to the budgeting process, which has been poorly presented on the town level. I am excited about the opportunity to return to student-focused, fact-based budget discussions to produce a zero-based budget that balances fiscal accountability with educational needs.

Another goal would be to establish clearer measurability of the district-wide goals and align them with budget drivers so the public can measure progress and clearly see the financial plans in advance.

Finally, I would like to see more families returning to the Marblehead Public Schools, particularly the ones who have chosen to leave the district in the last year.”

What can the School Committee do to reverse the MPS enrollment drop and bring more kids back into the public schools?

A careful analysis needs to occur to determine at what grade levels we are losing the most students versus how many families are deciding to find alternatives to the Marblehead Public Schools from the start of their children’s educational journey.

As I have advocated for in the past, I believe the Marblehead schools should be doing exit

Do you feel the district’s budget is right-sized, given the cuts made in the fiscal year 2027 budget? If not, what changes do you recommend?

Having served previously as chair of the School Budget Subcommittee, I have a very deep understanding of not only the Marblehead school budget but also of the grants and revolving funds that are used to help reduce the reliance of the school budget on taxpayer dollars. Marblehead schools have seen a significant decline in enrollment, including a rather steep decline in the last 10 months which must be addressed.

In order to establish the appropriate budget, the School Committee must work collaboratively towards a zerobased budget. I am committed to asking the administration to perform a detailed analysis of the needs of our current student body and develop a budget that is based on the needs of students rather than simply rolling over what may currently exist.

In a time of tight budget constraints, at least four districts in Massachusetts have cut DEI initiatives or positions, according to a recent story in CommonWealth Beacon. Should such initiatives or positions be a priority in the Marblehead Public Schools budget process? Why or why not?

The Education Reform Act, which clearly establishes the purview of the School Committee versus the administration, established that the legal role of a School Committee member is to oversee the school budget, hire, evaluate and supervise the superintendent, and set school district policy. Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education sets the educational frameworks for what must be taught at each grade level, and the superintendent oversees the day-to-day implementation of how to best meet the requirements set forth

by DESE. It is not the legal role of a School Committee in Massachusetts to establish the educational frameworks of what students learn. I have always been committed to knowing my purview as a School Committee member and adhering to that

Do you support the override this June? Which tier will you vote for?

I do support the override that will be on the ballot this June.

Specifically, I support Tier 3/ Question 3. To be clear, I do not take asking community members to raise taxes lightly. As a homeowner, I understand how rising costs are difficult.

Specific to the schools, I believe the district leadership team and School Committee have been diligent in identifying areas of the budget to cut. I have come to this conclusion by listening to School Committee meetings, reviewing meeting notes and speaking with the superintendent of schools, School Committee members, Finance Committee members as well as parents and other community members.

I believe that this is a structural deficit that cannot be overcome by just cutting more and more from the budget. If we do, it will not only have a negative impact on students but on the community at large.

If you’re elected, what are your top three goals for Marblehead schools during your term?

Overall, my goals for the Marblehead Public Schools align with the goals set out by the school district.

My first goal is to ensure that MPS develops a new strategic plan. The district developed a five-year plan that ends this year.

That plan is due to be updated this year. I plan to work with my School Committee colleagues to review and approve a district strategic plan that is developed by the superintendent, with documented input from school and community stakeholders.

My second goal is to work with School Committee members and the superintendent to better understand the assessment protocols that are in place in the schools. Key questions are what are the assessments telling us about student achievement, what do we need to improve and do instructional staff have the resources (curriculum, professional development) to teach and assess effectively.

My final goal is for transparency from the School Committee. Marblehead deserves to know what decisions are made and how they are made, how funds are being spent and the reasons for the financial choices the School Committee makes in order to build trust with the community.

I believe this work has already begun. The subcommittees of the School Committee are meeting on a regular basis with posted agendas and minutes on the school website (marbleheadschools.org).

Detailed budget sheets are readily available on the website, and the School Committee is publishing a monthly newsletter.

The newsletter is on the school website and is sent to all school families and highlights the current work that is being done by the committee.

SCHOOLS, P. 9

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 7

FOR RECREATION & PARKS ALL FIVE SEATS AVAILABLE Ken Klaiman

and is the longest standing adult league in America.

Works in investor relations, former member of the Northeast Arc board

If elected, what are your goals for your term?

My goals center on strengthening Marblehead’s parks and recreation system so it is more sustainable, accessible, and responsive to how residents use these spaces today.

First, I would prioritize the continued stewardship of our parks, ponds and recreation areas by helping establish a more defined maintenance management program. Rather than relying on reactive repairs, the town would benefit from a structured long-term approach that tracks asset conditions, maintenance cycles and capital needs.

I would also support exploring a “green space clause” within the town bylaws requiring that future redevelopment or sale of town-owned properties, such as the Coffin School complex, preserve meaningful publicly accessible open or recreational space. As available land becomes more limited, protecting places for residents and families to gather and connect should remain a long-term priority.

Second, I would emphasize stronger community partnerships. Marblehead already has great examples, including Marblehead Pickleball, Marblehead Youth Baseball/ Softball/Soccer, Men’s Softball and the Friends of Green Street Woods bike park. I would look to expand that model to bring additional energy, resources, and community ownership into the system.

Third, I would prioritize expanded access and inclusion, particularly for differently-abled residents. Accessibility should be incorporated into recreation planning from the outset so all residents can participate fully in community life.

Fourth, I would encourage more creative activities like an adult golf league, informal beach gatherings, and other community programming that brings people together.

Finally, I would support thoughtful re-use of existing town assets, including the Stramski House. A 2013 design

by Walter Jacob was never fully implemented and the site deserves another look to evaluate how the facility can best serve current community needs.

Perhaps a West Shore boat club.

Overall, my goal is to ensure Marblehead’s recreation system is not only well maintained, but also more strategic, collaborative and forward-looking as it evolves.

What skills/experience do you bring to the table?

I bring a professional background in capital markets, investor relations, and nonprofit financial oversight, with experience managing stakeholder relationships, long-term planning initiatives, and disciplined financial decision-making.

Much of my work has focused on evaluating longterm investments, balancing competing priorities, and moving projects from concept to execution—skills that translate directly to a Recreation & Parks Commission.

Specifically, I bring experience in: » Capital planning and budgeting: balancing infrastructure and maintenance needs with fiscal responsibility » Stakeholder collaboration: building consensus across

Karin Ernst

Rec & Parks commissioner for five years, board member of Manna Project of the North Shore, medical sales representative

Shelly Bedrossian

Mike McCarthy

diverse groups » Public-private partnerships:

understanding how organizations, volunteers, donors, and private partners can strengthen public assets » Strategic execution: turning ideas into actionable plans with measurable outcomes I also strongly value the role parks and recreation play in community life. Wellmaintained public spaces create opportunities for connection, activity and engagement across all age groups, and thoughtful stewardship is essential to preserving those assets for future generations.

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

If we are truly talking about a “magic wand” scenario, I would create a fully modernized, fully funded, and integrated recreation system designed not just for today’s needs, but for future generations.

That would mean upgraded fields, courts, playgrounds, waterfront spaces, and recreation facilities better equipped to handle community demand and New England weather year-round. It would include improved lighting, accessibility features, recreational amenities and stronger connectivity between parks, schools and waterfront assets.

I would also want to see greater investment in long-term capital projects and preventative maintenance so the town is not forced into reactive decisionmaking as infrastructure ages.

Ideally, Marblehead would have a clearly funded recreation master plan that continuously reinvests in public spaces before they become liabilities.

Just as importantly, I would want broader community participation — expanding recreation beyond organized youth sports into informal activities, community events and outdoor spaces that encourage residents of all ages to spend time outside and together.

The opportunity is not simply more facilities, but a recreation system that is more connected, resilient, inclusive, and woven into everyday community life.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

The biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks is balancing strong community demand with aging infrastructure and limited municipal resources.

Marblehead residents make tremendous use of our parks, fields, waterfront areas, courts and recreation programs.

Ken Klaiman

Karin Ernst

Chris Kennedy

Larry Simpson

That level of engagement is a strength, but it also creates pressure for maintenance, upgrades and reinvestment.

At the same time, community expectations continue to evolve, increasing demand for expanded programming, accessibility improvements and modernized facilities.

The challenge is not only maintaining what exists but doing so while planning responsibly for the future.

The key is a disciplined long-term approach to capital planning, maintenance management and project prioritization. The town cannot do everything at once, but with a clear roadmap and transparent priorities, Marblehead can continue making steady progress toward a more sustainable recreation system.

bring to the table?

Twenty-plus years of commercial real estate experience brokering corporate real estate, managing sales floors, underwriting investment real estate and efficiently managing properties. I have also spent years coaching Marblehead Youth Soccer, baseball and football… all which I still currently coach. My son also plays lacrosse. I am the only candidate that still has children utilizing the fields so, not only do I possess institutional knowledge but my personal network stretches across each organization.

What’s your favorite park in town? What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

One of the things that makes Marblehead special is the variety of parks and recreational spaces throughout town, each offering something different to the community.

Personally, my favorites are Fountain Park and Redd’s Pond.

Fountain Park offers a sense of quiet solitude, while Redd’s Pond captures a uniquely Marblehead tradition — especially the model sailboat races.

Over the years, I participated in many of Marblehead’s summer recreation programs, which gave me an early appreciation for how important they are in bringing families and neighborhoods together. Today, I’m a regular on the pickleball courts and also participate in the inner harbor/Riverhead Beach SUP program, which is a great example of the partnershipbased recreation Marblehead is fortunate to have.

What I appreciate most is that Marblehead’s recreation system serves residents at every stage of life — from youth programs to adult recreation to informal spaces where people can gather, connect and enjoy the outdoors.

Mike McCarthy

Commercial, corporate real estate, coach

If elected, what are your goals for your term?

Hope for the best and plan for the worst. The course of the next year may be driven by the results of the override. My plan is to make decisions based upon safety, cleanliness and preservation. My goal is to make good decisions that are best for the town (regardless of funding) based on that criteria.

What skills/experience do you

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

If I had a magic wand I would magically generate enough fourseason field space in town so kids in the community never had to leave to play specialized club sports. Growing up in Marblehead, I still talk to my friends about all the fun we had with town sports. I fear club sports are diluting that experience, and I fear it may take a toll on the community experience and the kid’s memories from youth sports in Marblehead.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

I have a few concerns but they are not fully vetted yet. The current commission has been working diligently on a variety of matters so before I answer I would need more exposure to the Department.

What’s your favorite park in town? What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

I love all of them. The fields and the recreation programs.

I grew up on Evans Road, and Bud Orne was my neighborhood playground. I picked blueberries as a kid and sailed P&R from Stramski’s (my grandfather also had my aunt’s horse in a stable there); I played youth baseball at Gatchells where I currently coach baseball, football and soccer; I coach and played soccer and baseball at Village (yes, baseball); I played football, coached soccer and coach football at Hopkins; played MHS baseball and youth soccer and currently coach Babe Ruth baseball at Seaside. I also played soccer at Sevinor Field growing up which is now the lower high school field. And, Green Street, where I have played softball for 23 years. I am the general manager and league historian of the Marblehead Softball League, which was established in 1939

If re-elected, what are your goals for your term?

If re-elected, I would like to continue working on the Reynolds Project with the other commissioners. Open the new Memorial Park. I would love to look at replacing that exercise trail down at Seaside and build a dog park at Coffin if we are able to keep some of that property under town ownership.

What skills/experience do you bring to the table?

I listen to all sides. I want to hear everyone’s ideas. I strongly dislike the phrase “We have always done it this way” as a reason not to change. I work hard and believe we work best when we work together.”

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

More staff. Our budget over the last 12 or so years has either been level-funded or reduced funding. While I think the staff is exceptional, I can only imagine what we could accomplish with two more. Either that or a recreation facility at Eveleth.

That way, the COA can support the seniors all day and evenings at Jacobi Community Center and Recreation could provide programming all day and evenings too. Sorry, I had two wishes.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

The biggest challenge I would say is the budget. A bigger budget allows for more staff.

We have eight staff to manage 70 properties, line and prep the sports fields, manage public restrooms and playgrounds, prep the beach, close the beach, rake the leaves, prep and cover the fields for the winter and many other duties.

What’s your favorite park in town? What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

The dog park. With over 3,000 dogs in town, having a place where dogs can socialize and run free (while contained) makes for a happy dog. Having a dog park that is accessible for all people would be my new favorite park.

The best recreation program is, hands down, the Scarecrow Stroll. It is a family experience where kids of all ages can enjoy the different scarecrows designed by individuals and communities. Families can “stroll” at their own pace, bring lunch and picnic on the beach.

Sounds fun, right?

Larry Simpson

Served on Recreation & Parks Commission for one year, garden designer/property manager

If re-elected, what are your goals for your term?

There are endless issues that should be addressed by the Recreation and Parks Commission. My top three goals would be 1) to facilitate and improve cooperation between pickleball players and the neighbors, 2) ensure Reynolds Playground Phase 1 Transformation has buy-in from all the stakeholders and we as initiators of this program RECREATION, P. 9

marbleheadcurrent.org

8 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

FOR MODERATOR TWO CANDIDATES, ONE POSITION Jack Attridge

Town moderator, realtor

Why are you running again for moderator?

I am running again because I care deeply about Marblehead and believe strong, fair leadership at town meeting matters. The moderator plays a critical role in preserving trust in the process. Over the last four years, I have worked hard to make Town Meeting organized, accessible, efficient and impartial. I believe continuity and experience are valuable, particularly as the town faces increasingly complicated issues and passionate deliberation. I remain committed to serving the community with fairness, preparation and respect for all viewpoints.

What do you see as the most important mission of the town moderator?

The most important mission of the moderator is to provide guidance to citizens. Whether it is questions about the legislative process or based in an interest to achieve a goal through submission of an article, there are many nuances which,

Jack Attridge

through my experience and knowledge of the town, I can provide guidance and clarity on.

Another priority is to protect the integrity of Town Meeting and ensure that the process is fair, orderly and accessible to everyone. The moderator should foster an environment where voters can deliberate differing opinions respectfully while ensuring meetings are conducted efficiently and within state law and our town bylaws.

What do you think are the biggest challenges?

Whatever challenges we face in our time, I am often reminded that Marblehead has faced overwhelmingly challenging times in our 377 years of town meetings. Tories living next to

Patriots, our downtown burning to the ground twice within 11 years in the late 1800s, extreme poverty and disease add to the regular business of the time.

The issues facing the town since I became moderator have brought increased participation.

Because of that, we have had physical challenges related to venue and technologies along with greater interest in the issues and the process of town meeting. As issues facing the town become more complex, both financially and operationally, it is increasingly important that Town Meeting remains well organized, accessible and understandable to our citizens.

What would you do differently (if anything) next year?

Coming into my fifth year as moderator, I have made several changes, most intentional and some imposed upon us with the change of location. The TM26 team has already met to debrief on this past meeting and any changes for the next meeting will likely be minor.

I would like to continue improving education around the process leading up to Town

Meeting so residents feel better informed before arriving at the meeting. Every year provides lessons that can help make the process more effective and more accessible.

What do you think is the biggest misunderstanding about the town moderator’s role?

The biggest misunderstanding is that the moderator is an advocate for particular positions or outcomes. The moderator’s responsibility is exactly the opposite. My role requires neutrality, consistency and fairness to all sides. The moderator’s job is to ensure the rules are followed, deliberation is managed fairly, and everyone has confidence that the process is impartial.

It is an honor to hold the position of moderator and to bring the history and traditions of our town forward through my oversight of Marblehead Town Meeting.

What skills/experience do you bring to the race?

I bring decades of community, municipal and business leadership along with a keen

interest in Marblehead’s governance. I regularly attend public meetings of boards and commissions and work to connect the dots between the work of the executive branch and Town Meeting.

Professionally, I have spent nearly 40 years in real estate where negotiation, communication, organization and problem-solving are essential every day. My experiences have taught me how to manage meetings, work collaboratively and build consensus among people with differing perspectives.

As moderator, I have already demonstrated the ability to run large public meetings in a fair, organized and respectful manner. I prepare extensively, understand procedure and approach the role with professionalism and impartiality.

Most importantly, I genuinely care about the town and the importance of preserving confidence in our town meeting tradition.”

Peter Jaffe

Jaffe declined to answer questions for the Candidates Guide.

HOUSING AUTHORITY

FOR CEMETERY COMMISSION

TWO CANDIDATES, ONE SEAT

TWO CANDIDATES, ONE SEAT Sally Sands

Jean Eldridge

Retired preschool owner, served on Old & Historic Commission, served 12 years as funeral deacon for Old North Church

Has served on the Housing Authority for many years

What experience/skills do you bring to the table?

I’ve been on the Housing Authority for several years. I know pretty much what’s needed in Marblehead.

If re-elected, what are your goals for the MHA? Our goal is always to provide housing for more people. People need housing.

Jean Eldridge

What is something people may not know about you that relates to this campaign?

I don’t know what people don’t know about me at this point. I’ve been on the Housing Authority and Cemetery Commission.

Jeffrey Weeden

Has worked at Lynn Housing Authority for more than 16 years

What experience/skills do you bring to the table?

I have been involved with public housing for over 16 years working for the Lynn Housing Authority & Neighborhood Development as its director of planning and development.

In this capacity, I have been awarded and oversee various federal and state grant programs that represent over $25 million of resources to the residents of Lynn.

I facilitated the drafting and passage of the city’s first housing production plan, working with stakeholders, residents, elected officials and regional planning agencies. I also serve as an administrator for Neighborhood Development Associates, a nonprofit development corporation dedicated to creating affordable housing in the city of Lynn.

With NDA, I am currently working to convert the historic Lynn Armory building into mixed-income veterans housing, utilizing both low-income housing tax credits and historic tax credits. I am hoping this specific experience can be helpful as it relates to the

Jeffrey Weeden

redevelopment of the Broughton Road site.

If elected, what are your goals for the MHA? The first goal is to make sure that current residents’ housing needs are met, whether it’s safety, security or maintenance.

Another goal is modernization of sites, specifically the redevelopment of the Broughton Road site. MHA has a great opportunity to reimagine that site and build mixed-income housing in a way to make the community proud.

What is something people may not know about you that relates to this campaign?

Although born and raised in Lynn, I have resided in Marblehead with my family for the last 14 years. I am looking for the opportunity to get involved in my community where I am raising my son, William.

William is a part of the Glover School community and is a passionate athlete, leading to my involvement in multiple youth sports and coaching his soccer team. Given my background, the MHA board makes the most sense to further involve myself in my community.

What skills and experience would you bring to the Cemetery Commission?

I owned and operated a successful preschool business in Marblehead for 20 years, which involved budgeting and record keeping, collaboration and cooperation with parents, and annual inspections by the building and fire departments.

I served for more than 10 years on the Old and Historic District Commission, working with homeowners to understand and comply with bylaws pertaining to historic preservation. As a member of Old North Church, I served 12 years as funeral deacon, coordinating memorial service and burial details with bereaved families, local funeral homes, the church office and ministers.

Why do you want to run for the Cemetery Commission?

Why is it an important role?

Our cemeteries are primary sources of information important to the history of Marblehead. The gravestones hold the names, birth dates, death dates and other information such as cause of death or occupation. I have ancestors and recent family members interred in four of Marblehead’s cemeteries.

The record keeping and maintenance of these sacred spaces is important. I hope to be part of protecting this history.

What goals for the Cemetery Commission do you have over the next 3-5 years?

The superintendent and Cemetery Commission are beginning expansion projects at Waterside and Creesy Street cemeteries to create additional spaces for burial of Marblehead residents and veterans. Memorial

Rose McCarthy

Sally Sands

space for police (similar to the fire department space at Waterside) is also being planned. However, the commission must continue to identify additional cemetery space for the future. Marblehead residents typically want to be buried in Marblehead!

The Cemetery Commission is fortunate to have two volunteer committees (Old Burial Hill and Harris Street/Hooper Tomb) who work closely with the superintendent to provide local oversight and grant writing to fund restoration projects at these sites. I would like to explore whether this model could be extended to include all cemetery and historic tomb locations in Marblehead.

at any of the Cemetery Commission meetings.

Public engagement is vitally important for a commission that is elected by the voters.

I would like to encourage more publicity online through social media and in print so that voters are aware of upcoming decisions that affect their cemeteries.

What is something you would like to change regarding the Cemetery Commission ... and how would you make that change?

The current Cemetery Commission functions well as a group and with the superintendent. I was appointed in February to fill the term of a commissioner who moved out of town. I am now running for a full, twoyear term starting in June.

The three monthly meetings I have attended have centered around making the required budget cuts for the 2027 town budget — a difficult task, at best, with tight deadlines.

Despite the properly noticed meetings, there were no public comments nor participation

Rose McCarthy

Former member of the Cemetery Commission and Rec & Parks

What skills and experience would you bring to the Cemetery Commission?

I have served on the Cemetery Commission.

Why do you want to run for the Cemetery Commission?

I want to run because there is an opening. It’s our duty to bury our loved ones and to take care of veterans that pass away.

What goals for the Cemetery Commission do you have over the next 3-5 years?

To fill in the pool. Also, to make a fieldstone type of pool smaller. It is filled once a year for Memorial Day. Trash is thrown in the empty pool.

What is something you would like to change regarding the Cemetery Commission ... and how would you make that change?

To make sure all names are printed in the town report who are employed at the cemetery. To trim around the headstones in the veterans lot.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Recreation From P. 7

use due diligence to ensure the proposal delivers long lasting sustainable results 3) continue to push for more thoughtful design and increased biodiversity in our parks. That will increase public enjoyment of these spaces.

What skills/experience do you bring to the table?

I am unique in that I bring decades of experience managing public land and parks to the commission. My career began 40 years ago, spending 12 years as director of Long Hill, a 114acre conservation property in Beverly which offered numerous educational programs. With my experience in management and horticulture I would like to increase the visual appeal and the biodiversity of the Marblehead parks. In my first year on the Commission, I was instrumental in starting the Friends of Marblehead Parks, which recently received its status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

This group started meeting in January and will have its first fundraiser, a native plant sale, on June 20. The goal is to increase the beauty, biodiversity and functionality of our parks and in turn make them a valuable resource for all ages. Although I have many skills pertaining to parks, I am a strong advocate for recreation. I have three children who grew up in town, and they have regularly participated in many of Recreation’s offerings.

Over the years pickleball, summer camp, stand-up paddleboard, swimming at all the beaches, Scarecrow Stroll and Contest, and youth soccer were some of their favorite activities.

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

If I had a magic wand, I would love to create a large space, far from any homes, where pickleball enthusiasts could play morning, noon and night without impacting any neighbors.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

Although Recreation and Parks does a phenomenal job of bringing in money with all of its programming, shortages in staffing and equipment remain.

So I think budgetary needs are a real challenge. Many athletic fields have drainage problems (principally Seaside Park) or irregular grades (Reynolds Playground and Village School) that are potentially dangerous.

Currently, there is no money in the budget to address these concerns.

Schools

From P. 6 What can the School Committee do to reverse the MPS enrollment drop and bring more kids back into the public schools?

I believe that there are some limited strategies that the School Committee can implement that could address enrollment decline. For instance, documenting why families are leaving is a strategy other school districts on the North Shore have used. If Marblehead developed an exit survey, it may provide data to help the district address educational issues related to families leaving.

Even with successful family outreach and retention efforts, there is very little the school district can do to impact the

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 9

What’s your favorite park in town? What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

My favorite park is Crocker Park. It is a 10-minute walk from my home. When friends come from out of town we always walk there as the historic neighborhoods that surround the park are incredibly unique and quaint. It is beautiful in the summer when the harbor is full of boats and equally enchanting in the winter. The winter view of the empty harbor and Neck beyond seems subdued and tranquil, like an old postcard.

My favorite recreation program would have to be the badminton program run at the Community Center. There is not a large audience for this sport, which further supports the idea of what a great job the Recreation leadership does. I love the game and played there regularly for many years. The program was very successful and drew players from a large geographic area.

Chris Kennedy

Rec & Parks commissioner since 2025, local business owner, coach

If re-elected, what are goals for your term?

To continue to work on accessibility and condition of our parks, beaches and sports fields.

What skills/experience do you bring to the table?

As a lifelong Marbleheader, local business owner, coach and athlete, I am extremely vested in the town and especially our parks and ball fields.

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

Budget and manpower.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

Budget and manpower.

What is your favorite park?

Redd’s Pond and Old Burial Hill or any field with a soccer net.

What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

I grew up attending Rec and Parks summer camp as a child and I have wonderful memories of field trips to Canobie Lake Park and Water Country.

Shelly Bedrossian

Served three terms on Rec & Parks

If re-elected, what are your goals for your term?

If re-elected, my goal is to complete Phase 1 of the Reynolds Park Refurbishment Project, which is currently at 30% design phase. I am grateful

larger issues of declining birthrates and the rising cost of real estate that prevents young families being able to afford to move to Marblehead.

Do you feel the district’s budget is right-sized, given the cuts made in the fiscal year 2027 budget? If not, what changes do you recommend?

I do believe that the district budget is right-sized going into fiscal year 2027. From my review of budget subcommittee minutes, it is apparent that both school and district leadership worked very hard to make cuts that had minimal impact on front-line work with children.

It appears that leadership was creative and thoughtful in their approach to staffing.

Additionally, based on state data, Marblehead’s professional

to the town departments, neighbors and sports leaders for working together to make this a reality. This collaboration is how government should work: inclusive, provides long-term solutions, is maintenancefocused and is fiscally responsible.

What skills/experience do you bring to the table?

I have over 20 years of experience building and rebuilding teams to revitalize organizations.

If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?

Thanks to Jamie Bloch, superintendent of Recreation and Parks, the department has transformed over the last 12 months, and many wishlist items have been achieved. Still, if I had a magic wand, I would create a 10,000-square-foot dog park on the north side of Coffin School, providing a dedicated, accessible space for the 40% of our community who own dogs.

If I had a second magic wand, I would transform Eveleth School into a multi-generational recreation center, offering a broader range of programming for all ages.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?

Under Jamie Bloch’s leadership, the department’s efficiency and pride are at an alltime high. We need to improve park beautification and barrierfree access, which will require a capital investment. Right now, no park in Marblehead is fully ADA-compliant, which is unacceptable.

Recreation and Parks is working with Brendan Callahan, Community Development director, on a grant and plans to upgrade walkways and bathrooms at Chandler Hovey and to refurbish pavilions funded by the revolving fund.

When completed, this will be a strong step in the right direction for accessibility for all.

What is your favorite park?

Seaside Park and the Seaside grandstands are national treasures. With help from the Shattuck Fund, Marblehead Athletic Department, Boosters, and the Recreation and Parks revolving fund, Seaside will undergo complete refurbishment after summer play. This publicprivate partnership will improve drainage, beautification and quality of play for years to come.

What about your favorite recreation program over the years?

That is easy… The Sweet Heart dance.

teaching staff has declined over the past few years, meaning the right-sizing has been occurring over several years.

However, I feel that we need to make sure that we do not end up with insufficient staffing going forward. School populations are not static. Students come and go constantly throughout the school year. It is imperative that the School Committee work collaboratively with the superintendent to make sure we are meeting our obligation to provide all students with the education and services they are entitled to under the law.

In a time of tight budget constraints, at least four districts in Massachusetts have cut DEI initiatives or positions, according to a recent story in Commonwealth

Override From P. 1

record, directing specific dollars to specific programs. That is the better way.”

There appear to be flaws in Better Way’s math, however. It claims, for example, that if Tier 3 of the override passes, along with the trash override, it would increase property taxes for the average-priced home ($1.29 million valuation) by $2,537 the first year.

However, that number reflects the full amount of the three-year override — $15 million. In fact, Town Meeting approved $4.3 million of the override to be allocated the first year, meaning the tax increase (if the $300 trash override passes) would be $855.

Better Way also makes an incorrect claim that Question 4 would raise enough money not only to cover the increased cost of the town’s new trash collection contract but leave approximately $1.5 million available to cover other municipal services (at Abbot Library, the Council on Aging and Rec & Parks) until a special town meeting can be called.

Marblehead’s Finance Director Aleesha Benjamin tells the Current there is no $1.5 million “surplus.”

“Removing curbside trash collection from the FY27 budget freed approximately $2.1 million to be repurposed, inclusive of the approximate $800,000

Letters From P. 5

time volunteering for the town while working full-time and being a full-time mom? The answer is simple: I want to make a difference for the town I love; it is worth it.

Rossana Ferrante, Select Board candidate Stonybrook Terrace

Support library with ‘yes’ vote on 1, 2 and 3 To the editor: For the past 150 years, Abbot Public Library has served as a cornerstone of education, community and culture for the town of Marblehead, providing free access to information, programming, technology and gathering space. Our newly renovated building has strengthened our long-standing community traditions, expanded our digital and physical collections, and supported a transformative surge in community engagement. The library’s broader programming offers a rich blend of practical knowledge, cultural and local history, and other special programs throughout the year, providing residents with unique

Beacon. Should such initiatives or positions be a priority in the Marblehead Public Schools budget process? Why or why not?

First, I want to state that I believe that all students and faculty should feel that they are integral members of the school community. This does not always happen. Without this sense of belonging, some students struggle to succeed in school. These inequitable gaps in school experience and educational outcomes are across ethnic and racial groups, economically disadvantaged students, students with disabilities and English language learners.

This is a local issue and an issue we are obligated to address.

Some want to call it DEI. I prefer to call it good, moral practice.

contractual increase” for the new trash contract, Benjamin wrote in an email.

“The $2.1M was repurposed within the FY27 budget to preserve core municipal operations,” she continued. “As a result, the town was able to reduce projected layoffs from more than 50 positions down to 22 positions and maintain funding for six departments that otherwise would have been defunded.”

The Current asked DiPiano several questions, including about Better Way’s math. On Monday, he responded that he would not be meeting with the group until later in the week, and he would respond after that.

The pro-override group, For Marblehead, reacted to Better Way’s claims.

“Unfortunately, the Better Way proposal is built on several misleading assumptions,” according to a statement by For Marblehead Co-Chair Matt Hooks.

“Most notably, it repeatedly refers to a supposed $1.5 million ‘surplus’ in Question 4 that can simply be redirected to restore services,” he said.

“That is inaccurate. Those funds are already accounted for within the town’s operating budget. Suggesting they can simultaneously fund existing operations and restore additional services amounts to double counting.”

Select Board Chair Dan Fox declined to comment.

educational and historical experiences.

Since our renovation, the library has experienced extraordinary growth in engagement and attendance in the children’s, teen and adult spaces. Children and families are enjoying the many early childhood programs as well as the innovative and recreational offerings in the Thompson Makerspace. Adults and seniors participate in various book club groups, special author events and Carten Galley exhibits.

Without an override, Abbot Public Library will face severe limitations in maintaining core services. The current townapproved 2027 budget will result in a significant reduction in services and operating hours. Residents could lose access to new books and reciprocal borrowing privileges in surrounding towns. Abbot Public Library also risks losing its state certification — a distinction held by 99% of all towns and municipalities in Massachusetts. Losing certification would cut off access to state funding, interlibrary loans and regional resource networks.

Voting “yes” on Question 1 keeps the library open, but with reduced hours and no budget LETTERS, P. 14

No one should feel excluded, less-than or othered. When we all come together to create an inclusive community, everyone is better for it.

As a relatively small district with a tight budget, I believe that we can accomplish this through the following: » Confront and address prejudice when it occurs. » Review curriculum and instructional material for potential bias and ensure educational material is culturally and linguistically inclusive. » Provide meaningful professional development that supports staff in these efforts. » Continue to provide multitiered systems of support for all students.

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

COMPASSIONATE • RELIABLE • LOCAL

HOME • AUTO • YACHT • BUSINESS

Care That Feels Like Family

Denise M. Regan denise@burkeins.com

Trusted home care for those you love most

OUR SERVICES

18 Brown Street Salem, MA 01970-3830

✓ Personal Care

Bathing, dressing, hygiene

✓ Companionship

T:978-741-7800 F: 978-741-7805

Friendly daily visits

✓ Live-In Care

Around-the-clock in-home support

✓ Nursing / RN Services Skilled clinical care at home

✓ Meal Preparation

Nutritious home-cooked meals

✓ Medication Reminders

NO PLANS? NO PROBLEM.

Safe, on-time support

✓ Transportation

Appointments & errands

✓ Respite Care

Relief for family caregivers

✓ 24/7 Availability

Care when you need it

WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE US • Carefully screened, trained caregivers • Personalized care plans, flexible scheduling • Locally owned, serving our community • Dementia & Alzheimer's experience • Complicated care • Hospice & End-of-life support

CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

781-631-4000

K I T C H E N S | B AT H S | A D D I T I O N S | A D U S

www.neighborgoodcare.org

PORCHE | GARAGES | BASEMENTS | + MORE

info@neighborgoodcare.org

978-867-0400 | BEVERLY, MA

Solving the care conundrum

UNLOCKING THE DOOR TO YOUR FUTURE NE

W

CT

Marblehead

$1,200,000

Lisa Gallagher - (781) 631-3746

A

I CT

$539,000

T AC

IV

E

Beverly

Heather Dagle - (508) 982-3124

SO

LD

Gloucester

Linda Clayton - (978) 652-8240

L SO

Gloucester

Ruth Pino - (978) 64-6710

VE

Gloucester

A

$1,298,000

Fintan Madden - (508) 878-1659

G

Rockport

W

I CT

$689,000

$798,000

$1,475,000

G

Lynn

Pam Cote - (978) 808-9345

$865,000

• $5,200/Mo | 1BD 1BA 9 Gingerbread Hill, U:1, Marblehead Lisa Gallagher - (781) 631-3746

• $1,800/Mo | 1BD 1BA 1 Harbor St, U:3, Salem Levana Group - (978) 500-9751

• $2,900/Mo | 2BD 1BA 1 Mugford St, U:3, Marblehead Brian Skidmore (617) 834-3227

• $3,000/Mo | 2BD 2BA 1006 Paradise Rd, U: PH Q, Swampscott Mitch Levine - (781) 883-6460

• $1,995/Mo | 2BD 1BA 8 Hersey St U:3, Salem Gary Blattberg Team - (617) 285-2655

• $2,950/Mo | 2BD 1BA 46 Burpee Rd, U:2, Swampscott Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

$765,000

Barbara Kennedy-White - (781) 254-1944

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

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

I CT

VE

Marblehead

$2,650,000

Brian Skidmore - (617) 834-3227

CT

$229,888

$429,000

Heather Dagle - (508) 982-3124

A

Ron Goulart & Jennifer Anderson - (508) 662-7890

W

Gloucester

VE

Rockport

CT

Sullivan Team - (781) 771-9949

NE

RENTALS

D

Beverly

I CT

CT

$719,000

$629,000

Gary Blattberg Team - (978) 852-5077

A

Heather Numerosi - (978) 595-8451

NE

Danvers

VE

Gloucester

G

G

Cambridge

$3,500,000

The Murray Brown Group - (508) 284-5098

SO

LD

Marblehead

Maggie Slavet - (413) 222-0362

$750,000

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 11

Sports Former MHS girls basketball coach Moran heads home to coach Big Blue boys again

BY JOE MCCONNELL For the past eight years, Paul Moran has coached the Marblehead High girls basketball team, while compiling a 99-68 overall record. But that all changed earlier this month, when he accepted the Swampscott High boys basketball job, a position that he also held two decades ago.

Moran has been a part of the Northeastern Conference (NEC) landscape for five decades, starting with his time as a Swampscott High boys basketball player, where he still owns the team’s scoring record of 2,043 career points. He graduated from SHS in 1985, and was its head boys hoop coach for three years from the 2004-05 season to the 2007-08 campaign.

His latest coaching move came on the heels of his 60th birthday on May 20. It all started for him as a head coach in 1998, when he took over his alma mater’s girls basketball program. He was there for two years, before

COURTESY PHOTO / VICTORIA DOSCH

Basketball coach Paul Moran talks to his team during the annual Andrew James Lawson Invitational Tournament at the TD Garden in Jan. 2025. Earlier this month, Moran announced that he’s leaving Marblehead to return home to Swampscott to take over the Big Blue’s boys basketball program, once again.

going to Danvers to head up the Falcons girls program from 2000 to 2004. He left there to become the aforementioned Swampscott boys coach, but after three years there he took off for Saugus to lead the Sachems boys team for the next nine winters. He was then on his way to Marblehead, his fourth NEC community.

Like his other coaching

opportunities, this was also a difficult decision for him. “I love Marblehead, and I’ll always be a big fan of Mike Giardi (the Magicians longtime boys head basketball and baseball coach, and the football team’s offensive coordinator),” said Moran.

“We did everything together (as coaches), including playing games in Florida and at the TD

Garden.”

Moran went on to say that “(Giardi) does many (great) things behind the scenes at MHS, and also heads up its Math Department. He comes from a great family, and I hope for nothing but the best for him and the entire Marblehead High athletic program.”

Moran also said that he had “three great ADs” during his eight years in Marblehead, referring to Greg Ceglarski and current athletic director Kent Wheeler, as well as longtime assistant Mark Tarmey, who stepped down from his post in March. Moran said of Tarmey: “he was a rock over there.”

Wheeler offered his thoughts on Moran’s departure: “Paul worked hard and did a good job as our girls basketball coach.

He’s well-respected here and across the North Shore. I know he will do a fine job as the new Swampscott boys’ basketball coach, and we wish him the best of luck,” while adding, “we are now in the process of searching

for a new girls basketball coach.”

Moran senses a “buzz around” Swampscott, and he credits that to the Superintendent of Schools Jason Calichman, SHS Principal Emily Zotto and athletic director Kelly Wolff. “They are developing a great culture over there,” he said.

Getting the opportunity to also have his son, Matt, on his coaching staff helped make the decision to leave Marblehead easier. Matt, an eighth grade Swampscott math teacher, was the Big Blue’s freshman coach for three years, and will return to that role under the guidance of his dad. “It’s a dream come true to coach with my son,” Moran said.

Moran will always remain loyal to the three other NEC towns that he has coached in, and will continue to root for them, except when they naturally play Swampscott. “I’ve been fortunate to coach in these towns, but now, I can’t ask for anything better than to finish my career off in my hometown,” he said.

BOSTON CELEBRATION

Leahy, Russo represent MHS at National Women and Girls in Sports Day

BY JOE MCCONNELL On Tuesday, May 19, the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) hosted the annual celebration of National Women and Girls in Sports Day at Faneuil Hall in Boston. This event recognizes two exceptional female athletes from each high school in the state. It’s designed to honor their contributions to their respective sports, commitment to sportsmanship and excellence in leadership.

These athletes throughout the state are nominated by their schools to represent them at the daylong experience, and this year Marblehead High School was proud to send Arianna Leahy (gymnastics) and Emilia Russo (hockey) there.

According to girls soccer coach Lisa Wales, they both exemplify integrity, sportsmanship, kindness and commitment to high school sports, all qualities that make Magicians shine.

Both athletes were accompanied by new MHS assistant athletic director Christine Silva and the school’s gymnastics coach Samantha Klipper. For Silva, it was a full circle moment after being chosen to represent Stoneham High School at the National Women and Girls in Sports Day back in 2009.

COURTESY PHOTO

MHS girls hockey player Emilia Russo, MHS assistant athletic director Christine Silva and MHS gymnast Arianna Leahy, from left, pose for a photo during the annual celebration of National Women and Girls in Sports Day at Faneuil Hall in Boston on May 19.

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

COURTESY PHOTO / MHS ALL-SPORTS BOOSTERS FACEBOOK PAGE

Marblehead High softball seniors Kate Andriano, Tessa Francis, Isabel Mortensen, captain Tessa Andriano, Lillian Reddy, Nora Mahan, Hailey Schmitt and captain Ashley Mortensen, from left, pose for a photo on Senior Day, before the start of the game against visiting Newburyport on May 21.

SPORTS ROUNDUP

Softball Coach Johnny Gold secures win No. 250 in regular season finale

BY JOE MCCONNELL

Softball team currently seeded 13th in the state The girls softball team (12-8) completed the regular season last week with two home wins – Winthrop (12-0, May 18) and Newburyport (9-0, May 21) – sandwiched around a close 2-1 loss to host Danvers on May 20. These Magicians are seeded 13th in the latest Division 2 power rankings. The state tournament pairings will be announced on May 27.

It took Coach Johnny Gold’s squad only five innings to dispatch the Vikings in this mercy rule game.

All-star pitcher Tessa Francis threw her second no-hitter of the year that included eight strikeouts to help propel her teammates to victory.

Ashley Mortensen was the leader on offense with three hits. Lucy Rogers drove home two with a single. Kate Andriano knocked in a run on two hits. Tessa Andriano chipped in with a hit and an RBI. Grace Dow and Avery Sheridan also contributed with big hits, according to Gold.

After the close loss to the Falcons, the Magicians bounced back to shut

down the Clippers. It was also Gold’s 250th win along the Marblehead varsity sidelines, and he accomplished the feat on Senior Day. Francis gave up just one hit, while striking out 10 to do her part once again to secure the victory. She also went a perfect two-for-two at the plate. Ashley Mortensen was credited with three hits in as many at-bats to lead the way on offense. As a team, they accounted for 11 total hits.

Laxmen wrap up regular season The Marblehead High boys lacrosse team (13-5), the Northeastern Conference champs, wrapped up the regular season with two losses – Winthrop (13-8, May 20, on the road) and Wakefield (6-5, May 21, at Piper) – after beating host Melrose, 7-6 on May 18. Prior to those three games, these Magicians were on a roll, winners of five straight that included victories over host Peabody (13-3, May 11) and visiting Masco (16-7, May 13). They are currently seeded 20th in the latest Division 2 power rankings. The state tournament pairings will be announced on May 27.

Against the Tanners, Coach John Wilkens’ team controlled the action

from beginning to end. They also led at halftime, 7-2.

Tyler Forbes (2 goals, 3 assists) and Owen Dulac (2 goals, 3 assists) and Kyle Thibodeau (2 goals, 2 assists) were the leading offensive contributors. Will Kinahan, Landon Dosch, Reid Wysor and Henry Wolcott chipped in with one goal and one assist apiece. Bailey Finkle, Dylan Kinahan and Grady Becker each scored once. Goalie Colin Maniaci only had to make two stops to record another win.

The game against the Chieftains was an entirely different story. The home team was trailing at the half, 9-3. But despite that deficit, Wilkens thought that this game was one of his team’s best efforts this year.

“I thought we played well in this game,” the veteran coach said.

Forbes was the top point getter with four goals and six assists. Kyle Thibodeau was next in line with four and one. Will Kinahan (2 goals, 1 assist), Dosch (2 goals), Finkel (2 goals), Wysor (1 goal) and Becker (1 goal) accounted for the rest of the markers. Dulac was the assist leader with three. Maniaci did his part in net with eight saves to help ignite the second half comeback.

marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

LITERATURE

In new book, local author explores survival, shipwreck and the Pacific

BY LEIGH BLANDER For bestselling author Eric Jay Dolin, the wreck of the whaleship Mentor was more than a forgotten maritime disaster — it was the beginning of what he calls “a wild story.”

Dolin’s newest book, “The Wreck of the Mentor: A True Story of Death, Despair and Deliverance in the Age of Sail,” comes out June 2. The 288-page book recounts the true story of the 1831-32 voyage of a New Bedford whaleship that crashed in the Pacific after nearly a year at sea.

Recently selected by The New York Times as one of the “most anticipated nonfiction books of 2026,” the story follows the surviving crew members through years of captivity, violence, negotiation and rescue across the western Pacific.

Of the 22 men aboard the Mentor, roughly half died within a day of the wreck. Ultimately, only seven made it back to the United States.

“The wreck is really the beginning of the story,” Dolin said. “I mean, it’s a dramatic beginning of the story, but from that point, they have interactions with natives.

They’re treated with kindness and compassion. They’re viciously attacked by other natives. There’s starvation, there’s a murder, there are fraught negotiations.”

“And it’s all 100% true,” he added.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Local author Eric Jay Dolin is out with his 17th book, “The Wreck of the Mentor: A True Story of Death, Despair and Deliverance in the Age of Sail.”

The book follows survivors across islands in the western Pacific, including Palau and Toby Island, where some crew members remained captive for more than two years before rescue missions — eventually backed by President Andrew Jackson — helped bring survivors home.

Dolin, who has now written 17 books, spent roughly 16 months researching and writing the project before turning it over to his publisher.

Unlike earlier projects that required extensive travel to archives and museums, most of the research for “The Wreck of the Mentor” happened from the third-floor office of his Marblehead home.

“Almost everything I needed was online,” Dolin said. “Most museums and libraries have digitized an awful lot of their materials.”

He relied heavily on

memoirs written by survivors, congressional records, newspaper accounts and oral histories collected by Palauan scholars and government sources. He also used interlibrary loans through Abbot Public Library.

“I’m a big fan of the library,” he said.

The ease of modern digital research, however, comes with its own challenges.

“Writing a book is so much easier and harder now,” Dolin said. “It’s easier because access to information is so — it’s just lightning quick… But it’s become more difficult because I have access to so much more information, I can be overwhelmed.”

Illustrated with more than 100 images and maps, including an eight-page color insert, the book explores what Dolin describes as a “gripping saga of cultural collision, tribal wars and dashed hopes.”

Unlike some of his earlier works, most of the illustrations were in the public domain, helping him avoid steep licensing fees.

“When I wrote my book ‘Leviathan,’ the history of whaling in America in 2007 … I had to purchase about 80 images,” he said. “It cost me almost $10,000.”

That 2007 book, “Leviathan,” remains his favorite and proved pivotal in his career. Its success convinced him — and his wife, Jennifer — that he could leave his day job and become a fulltime writer.

“I was working for the National Marine Fisheries Service in Gloucester on dogfish, squid, butterfish, herring — really, really exciting fish species,” he joked.

At the time, Dolin was waking up before dawn to write before commuting to Gloucester for work. He often wrote from 4 a.m. until the start of the workday, then returned home early enough to pick up his children from school.

“Writing is one of the most miserable careers to have, if your goal is consistency and to make a lot of money,” he said. “I’ve done OK, and I’m just thrilled that it worked out.”

Dolin’s route to authorship began long before maritime history. Growing up in Connecticut and on Long Island, he was fascinated by marine biology, seashells and the ocean.

As a teenager, he became an

avid shell collector and even published research on mollusks while still in high school.

“I wanted to grow up and be Jacques Cousteau,” he said.

Though he eventually shifted from hard science into environmental policy, the ocean never left his work. His books have explored whaling, pirates, privateers, hurricanes, China trade routes and maritime disasters.

His books have won numerous honors, including the John Lyman Award for U.S. Maritime History, the Samuel Eliot Morison Book Award for Naval Literature and the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Excellence in American History Book Award for Adult Nonfiction.

Still, Dolin said he is not exclusively tied to nautical history.

“If a topic comes up that’s on land that has nothing to do with the ocean, but it’s just a great story, then yeah, I would jump at it,” he said.

For now, though, he hopes readers are swept away by the survival drama of the Mentor.

“People have told me this book should definitely be a movie,” he said. “If Hollywood comes knocking, I’d be happy.”

More information about Dolin and his work is available at EricJayDolin.com.

Dolin will be speaking about “The Wreck of the Mentor” at the Marblehead Museum, 170 Washington St., June 25 at 7 p.m.

The new Jeremiah Lee Brick Kitchen exhibit tells the stories of enslaved people living in Marblehead in the 1700s and 1800s.

CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER

Lauren McCormack, director of the Marblehead Museum, stands inside the new Brick Kitchen exhibit, which opens in June.

LIVING HISTORY

New Brick Kitchen centers humanity of enslaved people

BY LEIGH BLANDER A new permanent exhibit opening June 1 at the Marblehead Museum’s Brick Kitchen seeks to tell a difficult but deeply human story about the lives of enslaved people who lived and worked in Marblehead.

Housed inside the museum’s newly restored Brick Kitchen building on Washington Street, the exhibit features 10 striking portraits by Peabody artist Amanda Wright representing enslaved individuals whose stories were uncovered through years of archival research.

The exhibit uses the portraits throughout the space to emphasize the individuality and humanity of the people whose lives are documented there.

“We wanted to use the space to talk about each person as a unique individual and how, despite the things that were forced on them, they were able to maintain their humanity,” said

Marblehead Museum Executive Director Lauren McCormack.

The exhibit begins with four enslaved people known to have lived and worked on the property owned by merchant Jeremiah Lee in the late 1700s: Diamond, Jemmy, Cupid and a young girl whose name has been lost to history. She is called, “Girl whose name was once known.”

The museum believes the Brick Kitchen building may have served in part as slave quarters.

Research indicates Lee enslaved at least four people while living on the property between 1768 and his death in 1775.

The remaining six portraits highlight stories museum staff felt illustrated the breadth of enslaved people’s experiences in Marblehead.

One of those stories belongs to Pompey, an enslaved sailor who escaped while traveling in Europe.

“He runs away in England,”

McCormack said.

Pompey’s freedom was short-lived. He was recognized abroad by someone who knew his enslaver and was eventually brought back to Marblehead.

“It’s heart-wrenching,” McCormack added. “He just tried so hard to escape.”

Another featured story is that of Flora Leigh, who was separated from her daughter during the Revolutionary War after loyalists fled Marblehead for Nova Scotia.

“It’s just this repeated struggle to maintain these familial ties, whether they’re blood family or chosen family,” McCormack said. “It’s horrible.”

The exhibit also explores the experiences of free and enslaved Black people who served during the Revolutionary War, including members of Col. John Glover’s regiment.

Among them is Cato Prince, a formerly enslaved man born in Africa who later became

Entry to the Jeremiah Lee Brick Kitchen is free and open to all.

free and chose to serve during the war, and Joseph Brown, who was promised freedom in exchange for military service before eventually settling in Marblehead with his wife, Lucretia Brown.

The museum purchased the Brick Kitchen property in April 2021 after years of hoping to acquire it.

“We knew that it was tied to Lee,” McCormack said. “The building offered such a unique opportunity to tell that story in a place where it happened.”

Since then, the project has grown into a major undertaking involving archaeological study, restoration work and exhibit development.

Funding for the project totaled roughly $1.4 million through a combination of grants and private donations, not including

the approximately $675,000 purchase price for the building itself.

The museum received federal and state grants for renovations and secured a National Endowment for the Humanities planning grant in 2023 to begin developing the exhibit. When the museum did not receive a second NEH grant, exhibit designers donated approximately $40,000 in services to complete the project.

Beginning June 1, the exhibit will be open free to the public year-round, except during January and February.

The museum is also partnering with local educators to develop curriculum materials based on the exhibit’s primary sources.

Supported through a grant from Mass Humanities, the curriculum will be tested in classrooms this fall before becoming publicly available online.

MCCormack hopes visitors leave with a deeper understanding not only of slavery’s presence in Marblehead but also of the resilience of those who endured it.

“These were individuals, human beings, and they each had their own story,” officials said.

“Despite what was done to them, they strove constantly in many different ways to maintain their humanity.”

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 13

CURRENT EVENTS

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

—By Julia Rockler

Set sail

Dance experience

Mondays & Wednesdays, 5:30-8 p.m.

Sunday, May 31, 1-2 p.m.

In this evening sailing class you’ll learn the basics and build confidence on the water. The experience is suitable for beginners and for those with some knowledge of sailing.

Sign up at sailsatori.com for $99. Questions? Call 781-797-0433.

Have fun while building body awareness and physical movement at The Yoga Loft. Join the class, Rhythm and Release, with instructor Peyton Pugmire. No previous dance experience is required, just a willingness to move. $30. Register at https://loom.ly/4PTbHX4

Beethoven’s Ninth, live at Star of the Sea Lunch Pop-up Cafe Thursday, May 28, 12-2 p.m.

Doug & Mike’s Road Show Pop-up Cafe will be at the Council on Aging, where you can choose a chicken salad sandwich or BLT, both with chips, beverage and cupcakes. $7. RSVP at 781-631-6225.

Cod and Whale Auction Friday, May 29, 5-7 p.m.

Check out the auction at Marblehead Festival of Arts and bid on your favorite cods and whales, created by local artists. Abbot Hall. More info at marbleheadfestival.org.

Live music with the Christine Lucas Band Saturday, May 30, 8:30 p.m.

Enjoy live music with The Christine Lucas Band at The Beacon. The band performs high-energy dance hits and soulful ballads with a diverse style of pop, classic rock, country, jazz, R&B and more.

Sunday, May 31, 4 p.m.

Don’t miss the chance to hear Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony live right here in Marblehead, at Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave. The concert is free. Bring items for the Marblehead Food Pantry.

Walking tour: History of Glover family homes Sunday, May 31, 4-6 p.m.

Discover the homes of the four Glover brothers and learn about their families. The tour begins in front of Abbot Hall and ends near State Street Landing. No registration is required, but donations are encouraged.

All proceeds will benefit the “Save the Glover Farm House’’ effort.

MARBLEHEAD SCHOOL COMMITTEE • JUNE 9 Crazy Shorts Semiquincentennial Edition!

Proven Leadership for Marblehead Schools

The classroom and the boardroom — together for Marblehead students.

2026 Edition designed by Peter Schalck, Flat Rock Creative

26 Hawkes St. Marblehead MA • 781-639-7778

Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-2 • shop.marbleheadsportshop.com/

Family Owned 30+ Years, North Shore Same great family, new family member ownership

Accepting New Clients Free In Person Estimate Weekly • Bi Weekly • Monthly • Seasonal Cleaning Add-On Options • Customizable

Contact us today to learn more and to schedule your FREE ESTIMATE Taylor Mihelis - 978-766-2934 tdanielle2004@gmail.com

MELISSA CLUCAS

ANN-MARIE JORDAN

Current School Committee CFO • Budget, Communications & Bargaining

Retired educator & administrator 25+ years serving students

WHAT WE'LL DELIVER Put students first Protect commitments made to voters Communicate clearly and transparently Restore trust and collaboration Bring financial rigor to every decision Focus on long-term sustainability Both candidates support the override and will vote YES on Questions 1 & 2 & 3 Paid for by the Committee to Elect Melissa Clucas and the Committee to Elect Ann-Marie Jordan

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

Ready for Summer?

We can help!

85 Washington St. Marblehead 781-639-0637 busstopclothing.com Mon-Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-5

Want to know more about Marblehead Rotary?

marbleheadcurrent.org

14 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

Letters From P. 9

for new materials. Voting “yes” on both Questions 1 and 2 together takes us back to current levels of service, and a “yes” vote on Questions 1 and 2 and 3 together allows modest budget growth to keep pace with knowledge, literacy and educational developments and trends for the benefit of the Marblehead community.

The Abbot Public Library officers of the Board of Trustees encourages Marblehead voters to support the library by voting “yes” for all three override questions (1 and 2 and 3) on the June 9 ballot.

The officers of the board remain fully committed to honoring the legacy, vision and investment of Benjamin Abbot by sustaining a library that provides lasting value through access to knowledge, shared resources and welcoming community space for all residents.

Sincerely, Abbot Public Library Board of Trustees Gary J. Amberik, chair, Washington Street John Williams, vice chair, Birch Street Katherine Barker, secretary, Locust Street

Join me in supporting Schaeffner for Select Board To the editor: I have known Jennifer for almost 50 years, and I would trust her with my life. Although we can disagree on labor issues and do not always align politically, I truly believe she is the best candidate for the Marblehead Select Board.

Jenn is a lifelong resident, raised her children here and has poured her heart and soul into our community. She has an extensive financial background and will bring much-needed oversight to our town’s spending to stop the bleeding.

I have served with Jennifer on the Marblehead Housing Authority since 2023, and she is always prepared, informed and listens to all points of view. She is not afraid to make hard decisions for the greater

good.

Marblehead needs courage, caring but most of all financial oversight. That is why I wholeheartedly support Jennifer Schaeffner for Select Board. With her in place, your override vote can comfortably be “yes”!

Terri Tauro Jersey Street

Select Board candidate updates override position To the editor: Recently, I answered this question for the Current’s Candidates Guide: “Do you support the override this June? Which tier will you vote for and why?”

This letter to the editor updates my position based on additional information that I learned this week.

The update is important to me because it shows the value of due diligence as a continuous process for decision making. As election day approaches, I continue to challenge myself to make the best decision possible as a voting member of this community. Please see my updated answer below: I support stabilizing the town’s financial situation and services while holding ourselves accountable. We must take a measured approach to raising taxes. I attended the Super Saturday session that the Finance Committee held with all departments. Every department presented its financial budget. I am confident the town needs an override. Under Alec Goolsby and Molly Teets’ leadership, I trust that the Finance Committee has worked hard on the budget numbers for several years.

That said, highlevel presentations communicating the budget to the community seemed hurried and unclear, causing some confusion and distrust regarding the overall process. I support Tier 2 and commit to exploring ways to run the town more efficiently. As we stabilize, we must be disciplined about how we draw from the tax base.

I am confident that the quarterly joint financial reviews, under the MOU, can powerfully drive accountability for how, when, where and why

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD PLANNING BOARD The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Monday June 15, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of James J. Hanratty and Linda L. Hanratty, Trustees of the Hanratty Realty Trust, for a Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the demolition of the existing single family dwelling and detached accessory structure and the construction of a new single family dwelling at 6-8 REDSTONE LANE in a SHORELINE GENERAL RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be in held in hybrid format with remote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945. Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.marbleheadma.gov Robert Schaeffner Chairman TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD REQUEST FOR QUOTE Contract No. 26-59 The Town of Marblehead is seeking quotes for repairing the Story Tomb located at the Old Burial Hill Cemetery, Marblehead, MA 01945.

Quotes due by: June 11, 2026, by 10:00 am Visit https://procurement.opengov.com/portal/marblehead for a copy of the quote package and prevailing wage rates.

The contract will be awarded to the bidder who submits the lowest responsive and responsible bid.

This contract is subject to Prevailing Wage requirements, and the contractor shall pay prevailing wage rates in accordance with the applicable wage rate schedule from DLS included with the solicitation documents.

funds are used.

Finally, regarding trash collection, solid arguments exist on both sides. We cannot change our current situation; at this point, we need people to vote on their future preference.

I may support the override, but I also see the opportunity in a fee-based structure to allow people more choice.

Regardless of the community’s decision, I recommend applying lessons learned from the last trash collection override. We must start now to establish the right processes and oversight ensuring we avoid this situation again.

Rossana Ferrante, Select Board candidate Stonybrook Terrace

Override has support of PTO/PCOs To the editor: The Marblehead Public School PTO/PCOs have voted to endorse an override that provides long-term support for schools, infrastructure and essential town services.

We will be hosting a zoom override information session for the caregivers of Marblehead Public School students with various town officials on May 28. We encourage all Marbleheaders to vote on Tuesday, June 9.

Sincerely, Sylvia Kane, co-president MHS PCO Evans Road; Julie Peach, co-president MHS PCO Peach Highlands; Reece Dahlberg, co-president MVMS PCO Fieldbrook Road; Stacey Faris, co-president MVMS PCO Pitman Road; Michele Louro, president, Village School PTO Atlantic Avenue Mary Kennedy, co-president, L&J Brown School PTO Ocean Avenue; Meaghan DeSoto, co-president, L&J Brown School PTO Jersey Street; Maggie O’Reilly, co-president, Glover School PTO Brookhouse Drive; Sarah Magazine-Yount, co-president, Glover School PTO Rockaway Avenue

A vote for Fox is a vote for experience, expertise To the editor: I am writing in support of Sarah Fox for election to the Marblehead School Committee. As a parent of three with one still in the Marblehead schools, I have watched the decline of hard-won transparency on our School Committee since Fox’s departure.

Transparency is especially crucial this year as we face unprecedented budget challenges and a possible permanent override in town.

With the upcoming departure of committee stalwart Jennifer Schaeffner, there will be no one left with the kind of budgetary expertise Fox brings to the table. We need this expertise now more than ever.

During Sarah’s prior years on the committee, she shone brightest on budgetary and policy subcommittees and has often spoken out in meetings as the lone voice of concern over cuts AND spending. Her record is clear — she does not entertain administrative frivolity on the taxpayers’ dime. When other members acted at the behest of special interests or the town’s other boards, Fox stood alone in her apolitical support of decisions that best suited the entire student body, not a select few.

It was Sarah Fox that openly conversed with students attending committee meetings with concerns and complaints during COVID, and it was Sarah Fox who let student needs guide policy when it came to attendance and other pandemic adjustments. This is the person I want setting the budget AND drafting the policies not just for my child in the system, but for the future of all children in Marblehead schools.

A vote for Sarah Fox is a vote for experience, expertise and level-headed leadership. I look forward to her return to the School Committee.

Colleen Nial Bowden Street

Clucas has many positive qualities To the editor: We are writing to support Melissa Clucas for the School Committee.

She brings a muchneeded fiscal expertise, a willingness to work with her colleagues in a collaborative nature and excellent communication skills among many other positive qualities.

We met Melissa and her family in 2021 at a birthday party for a mutual friend.

Since then, we have come to know Melissa as our own family friend. We have had the privilege of witnessing her parent her three daughters with her husband, Nick — arguably her most important role.

Melissa is inherently kind and patient; these qualities carry over positively to her role on the Marblehead School Committee.

Professionally, Melissa is a chief financial officer for a multi-million dollar company. In this capacity she is responsible for a corporate budget, has

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD

been integral in contract negotiations and works regularly with legal counsel. Over the past six months, Melissa has demonstrated exactly how much Marblehead benefits from this level of expertise. She has worked tirelessly with the School Committee, Finance Committee, Select Board and community members to develop a balanced budget, create solutions for future financial needs and ensure that all stakeholders understand the process and the choices involved.

Melissa has the financial background to further guide our community during these challenging economic times.

Equally as important as her financial background, Melissa has brought a collaborative nature to the current School Committee. She has been a driving force in helping the committee move forward constructively, always focusing on practical problem-solving.

She asks informed, incisive questions but always does so with respect for her colleagues and a genuine appreciation for differing opinions. She will work to ensure appropriate policies are in place and building needs are met.

Melissa has the experience, integrity and ability to communicate required to represent all of Marblehead effectively on day one. Please join us in voting for Melissa Clucas for School Committee on June 9.

Mary and Bill LeBlanc Peach Highlands

Vote yes to support ‘connective tissue’ To the editor: Marblehead’s police, fire and first responders; parks, playgrounds and beaches; roads, sidewalks and bridges; community center, senior center and counseling center; Abbot Public Library; wharves, waterfront and harbors; Abbot Hall and the Old Town House; and public schools are our connective tissue. They’re vitally important to children, adults and the elderly.

Our common, shared spaces and essential services help make us a town and define the uniqueness of Marblehead.

They desperately need both renewed investment and greater and continuing vigilance over their care and maintenance.

After reading news coverage, independent research, attending Town Meeting and a lot of thinking, we have decided without reservation to vote “yes” on Questions 1, 2 and 3 on June 9. Question 3 is a commitment to prudently address basic,

long-neglected, systemic problems. Moving forward, a “yes on 3” vote creates potential sources of new revenue, and it gives Town Meeting the flexibility to best respond to this crisis that’s been brewing for decades.

We respectfully urge our fellow townspeople to say “yes” to Questions 1, 2 and 3, and not turn their backs on Marblehead at this crucial moment.

Stephen Cooper and Penny Raynor Lincoln Avenue

Schaeffner ‘exactly what Marblehead needs’ To the editor: It is my pleasure to submit this letter in strong support of Jenn Schaeffner for Select Board.

Jenn Schaeffner is exactly what Marblehead needs during our current financial hardships. She has a proven track record of fiscal responsibility during her time on the School Committee through careful budgeting and holding administrators accountable for expenses.

One thing I noticed during the “tiered override” debates was that in the early stages there were discussions about building savings in order to handle any future sudden financial hardships. Those talks of “savings” later morphed into finding ways to spend every single penny that could possibly come in even at the highest tiers by the Select Board majority, but not the Select Board whole. We need someone who understands the fiscal reality now to help dig us out of this hole rather than keep digging deeper and setting us up for general overrides every couple years. Jenn is the person who can shift the majority in the right direction.

Jenn supported the idea of a menu override, which the town meeting majority voted on at our 2025 town meeting but Select Board majority disregarded on the current ballot. Having an override menu rather than a bulk override gives residents more direct say in services they want and services they could do without. The only reason for a bulk override is to leverage items people want in order to pass items that a democratic majority of the town would not support. Jenn respected the town vote and would join Select Board members like Jim Zisson and Moses Grader to create a majority for the menu option in the future.

Jenn is also experienced with working on teams, including other boards, to achieve shared goals.

She’s worked with me personally on addressing LETTERS, P. 15

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD

PLANNING BOARD

PLANNING BOARD

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Monday June

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on Monday June

15, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of Maple Circle Marblehead LLC,

15, 2026 at 7:00 PM on the application of Preetha K. Nooyi, for an Accessory

for an Accessory Dwelling Unit Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the con-

Dwelling Unit Site Plan Approval Special Permit for the construction of an Ac-

struction of an Accessory Dwelling Unit on a dimensionally conforming Lot lo-

cessory Dwelling Unit on a Lot with less than the required Lot Area and Front-

cated at 9 MAPLE CIRCLE in a SINGLE RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The public

age located at 9 BALLAST LANE in an EXPANDED SINGLE RESIDENCE

hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw.

DISTRICT. The public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Mar-

This meeting will be in held in hybrid format with remote participation available

blehead Zoning Bylaw. This meeting will be in held in hybrid format with re-

and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945.

mote participation available and in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street

Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by email: ly-

Marblehead, MA 01945. Request to make an appointment to review plans and

onsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are available at the Town of Mar-

information by email: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov Project materials are avail-

blehead’s Community Development and Planning Office located at 7 Widger

able at the Town of Marblehead’s Community Development and Planning Office

Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the meeting remotely

located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead, MA 01945. Details on how to access the

This solicitation is being conducted in accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30 39M, and any resulting contract will be strictly awarded in accordance with the requirements of the solicitation.

will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior to the meeting.

meeting remotely will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48 hours prior

The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home page at www.

to the meeting. The agenda and zoom link can be found on the Town’s home

marbleheadma.gov

page at www.marbleheadma.gov

The Town reserves the right to reject any or all quotes, including, without limitation, nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced, or conditional quotes.

Robert Schaeffner

Robert Schaeffner

Chairman

Chairman

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 15

POLICE LOG

Porch pirate pinches package of panties Wednesday, April 29

» Alarms: 1 » Building/property checks: 6 » Abandoned 911 calls: 2 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 12:30 a.m. An officer investigated a street-sweeping violation on Barnard Street. A vehicle was towed.

8:18 a.m. An officer assisted at

Letters From P. 14

the underage drinking situation in town. She took time to meet with DA Paul Tucker to discuss social hosting laws and led an effort to make parents aware of these laws as well as the dangers and tragedies social hosting has led to in our town. Jenn came to my meetings as a vocal supporter for my transparency initiative for Health Department expenses, an initiative not supported by prior members but embraced by current ones.

I’ve only been involved in town politics for a few years, and there is a short list of people that I reach out to for advice and better understanding of town governance and local laws. Jenn has always been at the top of the list and extremely receptive while providing sound advice along the way.

Jenn Shaeffner is exactly what the town needs during these difficult financial times, and I have full faith that her knowledge, experience, work ethic and fortitude can pull us out of the hole we’ve found ourselves in to put Marblehead back on the right track.

Please join me in voting for Jennifer Schaeffner for Select Board.

Tom McMahon Shorewood Road

Departing member urges Noonan’s return To the editor: After many years serving on the Marblehead Select Board, I am stepping down. As I reflect on my time in that seat, one thing I know for certain is that this town has been fortunate to have Erin Noonan serving alongside me. I am writing to ask Marblehead voters to return her to the Select Board.

Erin loves this town. I do not mean that in a passing way. I mean, she has given real time, real energy and real thought to what it means to govern Marblehead well. And Marblehead is not easy to govern. We are a community with a fierce sense of identity, a complicated coastline, aging infrastructure, genuine housing pressures and residents who care deeply and are not shy about saying so. That is a good thing. But it demands elected officials who show up prepared, listen carefully and stay steady when the decisions get hard.

That is Erin.

Together, we worked on things I am genuinely proud of.

There are the obvious yearly responsibilities, such as the warrant, financial oversight and broad policy-making. We have spent years analyzing budgets, identifying savings and efficiencies, and developing a meaningful, comprehensive override plan to address our fiscal crisis and share it with our citizens.

Yet, the smaller, often overlooked, changes proved very valuable upon reflection.

After years of effort, we formalized financial policies and procedures into official board policy so future boards would have a stronger foundation to

the scene of a vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and Hathaway Road.

3:56 p.m. An officer was dispatched to the police station lobby to speak with a person who wanted to report threatening posts on social media. A father explained that people on Facebook had been making comments about the way his

son drives. The posts included a description of his vehicle and suggested that someone should take him out of the vehicle and beat him up to teach him a lesson. The man explained that his son’s friends at school had seen the Facebook post, and the son had started getting text messages, which bothered him.

The father said that he and his son would be switching vehicles

for the next couple weeks or until people stopped making posts about the son and just wanted the incident documented for now. The officer advised the man that he and his son should come back to the station if the harassment continued.

4:24 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Turner Road that proved to be unfounded.

4:55 p.m. Officers restored the peace after a general complaint on Rowland Street.

5:27 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Hawkes Street. The source could not be located.

work from. We advocated for upgraded IT and communication systems, increased efficiency and established the first-ever Select Board email addresses, which sounds small, but meant that any resident in Marblehead finally had a direct line to their elected representatives. We fought hard for hybrid meeting access and equipment because we both believed that a working parent, a senior or anyone who could not get to Abbot Hall on a weeknight still deserved a seat at the table.

Erin led work on Marblehead’s Housing Production Plan, which matters deeply as we try to keep this a town where people can afford to live and stay. She also championed the local rooms and meals tax as a growth opportunity for new revenue in Marblehead. Many of these things, now commonplace, resulted from months and years of hard work and advocacy.

Erin served as chair of the Select Board for two years.

I watched her run meetings with patience and purpose, build consensus among strong personalities and move initiatives forward that could have easily stalled. That is harder than it looks. It requires strong leadership to get things done where strong opinions are the norm. She understands how Marblehead’s government actually works: the relationships, the history and the nuances that take years to learn and develop.

That institutional knowledge matters enormously when the town faces difficult decisions, and it cannot be replicated overnight.

She is also an attorney, and that matters more than people might realize. Local government is full of moments where the legal details are the difference between a good decision and a costly mistake. Erin reads the fine print. She asks the right questions. She has helped keep Marblehead on the right side of complicated regulatory and municipal issues more than once.

But more than any of that, Erin listens. She listens to people who have been here for generations and to people who just moved in. Her commitment to the people of Marblehead is not performative; it shows up in the work.

I am proud of what we accomplished over my time on the board, and I leave knowing Marblehead is in good hands with Erin. Please vote to re-elect Erin Noonan to the Marblehead Select Board.

Alexa Singer Pleasant Street

difference for our town.

The runway to prepare us for this override moment has included making sure we had the IT software upgrades to track money in various departments, ensuring more transparency and accountability. She supported moving town funds into higherinterest-bearing accounts, advocated for the adoption of the local meals and lodging tax, and championed the addition of a sustainability coordinator position, which has helped departments reduce energy costs while securing significant grant funding for the town. She supported hiring a grant writer, who also brought in thousands for various town projects.

Another fiscally sound move was advocating for starting our “rainy day fund,” which is so important in maintaining our bond rating and keeping our interest rates low.

In short, she cared about tightening up our budget, finding savings where we could and increasing revenue, all as a way to pave the road to this moment where we are at the crossroads of deciding on what kind of override we will decide on. Will we starve our municipal services or fund them appropriately, so we can maintain our buildings and equipment, keep more of our special needs kids in the district and help our seniors?

Erin cares deeply about our town and is the only candidate who has the foresight to say that we have made the painful cuts we were required to, but this is not the town most Headers want. She is also not afraid to make difficult decisions when necessary and consistently puts the long-term interests of the community first. We need a multi-year approach to this $7.7 million deficit. It takes fortitude to serve this town and to make the tough but responsible decisions. We need Erin’s leadership and professional legal background to see us through whatever option the town votes for on June 9. I urge you to join me in voting for Erin Noonan.

Jane Casler Washington Street

COVID emergency there was a certain lack of coordination or support locally. With the more recent addition of physicians on the board, I have already been more impressed with the communication and the clear desire for improving the health of our community. I have no doubt the addition of Dr. Selbst would help build on this new momentum.

Dr. Lisa Gast Fox Run Lane

has my enthusiastic vote for Select Board.

Jeanne Lambkin Devereux Street

Noonan has proved to be ‘valuable asset’ To the editor: Next week, I will be casting my vote for Erin Noonan for Select Board. She has proved to be an incredibly valuable asset to our governing board now for five years. She originally ran for Select Board because she could see the structural deficit in our finances, the housing needs of our community and the environmental challenge of being a coastal community.

In each of those areas, she has stayed focused on making a

Local pediatrician supports Selbst for Board of Health To the editor: I am writing to express my unconditional support of Dr. Julie Selbst for a seat on the Marblehead Board of Health.

I have known Julie for about 15 years now, and in that time she has consistently impressed me with her knowledge (about everything!) and her commitment to all that she does, both personally and professionally. She is a formidable woman — wise, forthright, considerate, articulate and caring.

Dr. Selbst is not only a fantastic physician but spent the first 10 years of her professional life as a lawyer. This provides her with quite a unique perspective, and this combination is certainly exceptional for such a role.

And speaking as a pediatrician in our community, I was surprised that during the

Noonan for Select Board To the editor: I’m enthusiastically voting for Erin Noonan for Select Board as she has demonstrated her commitment to Marblehead with clarity, curiosity and courage.

When I have conversations with Erin, I am confident she is respectfully listening and telling me her candid views.

For an example of how Erin communicates, I recommend reading the Select Board candidate profiles in the Marblehead Current. In just 16 words, Erin answered the first question unequivocally (“Do you support the override this June? If yes, which tier will you vote for?”). She also provided valuable examples to support her position. In contrast, one of the other candidates wrote over 250 words but never answered the question. The third candidate wrote 136 words to say they are leaning between two of the three options.

Last week, I attended two unrelated community information sessions where I saw Erin listening attentively to the presentations and public comments. While candidate appearances blossom in election season, Erin’s town engagement is evergreen; she is in the community year-round.

Erin’s interest in hearing diverse views is matched by her enthusiasm for exploring possibilities to enhance our town. The patience and persistence she brings to addressing complex challenges is an asset to the Select Board and has strengthened Marblehead. During her tenure, the Select Board created a new revenue source with the meals tax and established the Community Development and Planning Department, which has secured substantial funding and is overseeing dozens of capital improvement projects.

Notably, Erin has been a driving force in stabilizing town financials, including guiding the development and discussions around the override, which we will soon vote on.

I am convinced Marblehead needs a comprehensive override to fund the many essential services that make our town the place we love, including a fully functioning library, sufficiently staffed public safety departments, strategically resourced schools and investments to maintain the many places that make Marblehead unique. The financial commitment we’ll make passing this essential override must be paired with a leader who will be a responsible financial steward. Erin Noonan is that leader, which is why she

Thursday, April 30 » Alarms: 1

POLICE, P. 16

Noonan a courageous leader To the editor: With our community once again facing difficult decisions, I will be supporting Erin Noonan for Select Board. Ms. Noonan is an experienced lawmaker who has brought a balanced and measured approach to the Select Board for five years, with a focus on advancing our town’s beauty and appeal.

During her election campaign in 2023, Ms. Noonan noted our challenging finances, for we were then using approximately $10 million of so-called free cash to close the gap on the $100 million town budget, an unsustainable solution. She committed to and delivered on finding new revenues, such as increasing local taxes on hotels and meals, and working with other communities to learn best practices. In her recent interview, she stated that she was working with town departments to optimize landscaping and other services to cut expenses. She is aware of — and responsive to — the concerns of the citizens of the town as we make this difficult decision to override our budget constraints in order to preserve this gem of an oceanside community, for we are all affected by these services.

Most importantly, Ms. Noonan is courageous. The stoic author Ryan Holiday summarizes courage as risk, sacrifice, commitment, perseverance, truth and determination. Ms. Noonan has demonstrated these fine qualities in her work on the Select Board and as a contributory citizen of Marblehead, and she deserves your vote for Select Board on June 9.

Christian Stumpf Pitman Road

Re-elect Jean Eldridge to the Housing Authority To the editor: Jean Eldridge has served the Marblehead Housing Authority for several terms, bringing experience, institutional knowledge and unwavering commitment to the residents she serves.

Our Housing Authority reflects the uniqueness of our town; “one size fits all” policies seldom apply. What works in a large city may very well fall flat here. Jean has a deep and practical understanding of how Marblehead’s Housing Authority works, what is needed and how to get things done, all the while ensuring that the people of Marblehead’s housing are treated with dignity, respect and compassion. Please help re-elect Jean Eldridge, the heart and soul of Marblehead’s public housing.

Bill Kuker Rowland Street

marbleheadcurrent.org

16 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

OBITUARIES

as well as his children Chris, Steve and Matt Hower, and his

stepson Michael Perlman. He leaves his devoted stepdaughter, Lisa Perlman Kaplan, and her husband Alan, along with three cherished grandchildren — Ben, Alex and Nick.

A graduate of Colorado University with a bachelor’s in engineering, Gene built a successful career with GE Aircraft Engines in Lynn.

Outside of work, he found his greatest happiness on the water.

A passionate sailboat racer, he spent countless days surrounded by wind, waves and good friends.

He was an avid gardener, a

committed environmentalist, a master bridge player and a longtime supporter of the World Wildlife Fund amongst many other charitable organizations.

Gene and Harriett shared a deep love of travel, spending a month each winter in St. Martin.

Their time there — days at the beach, evenings in favorite restaurants and the simple pleasure of being together — remained among Gene’s most cherished memories. Despite experiencing profound personal loss, he carried himself with remarkable optimism and grace,

offering warmth, laughter and steady positivity to all who knew him.

Gene will be deeply missed by family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to share in his life. His family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Mariner Assisted Living facility for their exceptional care, compassion and support over these past years.

Services are private. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Gene’s loved ones.

and sense of adventure that would stay with him throughout his life.

As a young man, Stephen took pride in hard work and spoke fondly of his early jobs on the North Shore, including a summer at John Boyd Co., Inc. in Lynn, in 1962, and work at the Richard Price Boat Yard in Marblehead in the spring of 1964, helping get boats ready for the season. His education carried him far beyond the North Shore. After attending Glover School, Marblehead

Junior High and Marblehead High, Stephen continued his studies at Cranbrook School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and Vermont Academy in Saxtons River, Vermont. He attended Ohio Wesleyan before earning a bachelor of science in finance from the University of Arizona in 1967, then continued on to the American Graduate School of International Management in Glendale, Arizona, in 1968.

In 1967, Stephen also answered a call to serve, reporting for duty at Fort Ord, California, with the U.S. Army Training Center Infantry, Company A, 3d Battalion, 3d Brigade, where he trained from June through October. Stephen went on to build an accomplished career in international capital markets.

Stephen went on to build an accomplished career in international capital markets.

He began at Paine Webber, continued with Merrill Lynch and Daiwa America Securities and later became founder and

principal of Salem Partners, Inc. In his work, as in his life, he brought drive, curiosity and a perspective that reached well beyond any one place.

That energy carried into his personal pursuits as well. From 1982 to 1985, Stephen ran four New York City marathons, a fitting expression of his endurance, determination and willingness to embrace a challenge.

At the heart of Stephen’s life was his faith. He was a devoted member of The Brooklyn Tabernacle Church, where he gave generously of his time and talents across multiple ministries. He was an integral part of the church’s Global Missions ministry and of World Compassion Fellowship, organizations that have helped launch 15 life centers serving communities around the world in holistic ways. Over the years, Stephen served on 25 medical ministry trips, helping prepare teams through medical supply

packing and logistics and serving in the pharmacy.

Should you wish to contribute to the Medical Ministry or a life center, in memory of Stephen, you can contribute here: https://wcfellowship. com/all-life-centers. Should you wish to contribute to The Brooklyn Tabernacle Missions, in memory of Stephen, you can contribute here: https://www. brooklyntabernacle.org/giving/.

Stephen’s life was marked by devotion — to family, to faith, and to meaningful service. He is survived by his daughter, Heather; his son-in-law, James; his grandson, Spencer; his son, Whitney; his daughter-inlaw, Erin; his granddaughter, Eleanor; his grandson, Henry; and his goddaughter, Faith. He leaves behind a legacy of energy, generosity, and perseverance.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 17, at 6:30 p.m. at: The Brooklyn Tabernacle Chapel, 190 Livingston Street Brooklyn, New York.

» Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 5 9:37 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Tedesco Street and Brookhouse Drive.

11:18 a.m. An officer went to Gingerbread Hill Road to investigate a complaint about a truck that was banging into walls.

Upon his arrival, the officer spoke with the caller and her husband who reported that a truck was backing into the driveway to get to 52 Beacon St. when it started to go over the small stone wall on their side of the driveway. There was no damage to the wall; however, they wanted to report that the truck was too big to be going up the narrow street. Also on scene was a neighbor who lives on Gingerbread Hill Road. She stated that the truck also was rubbing up against her tree that hung over the wall, which caused a few branches to break off. The neighbor stated that she did not care about the branches but thought it may be a better idea for the truck to park somewhere else in the future. The officer then spoke to the truck’s owner, who reported that his truck had gone over the wall and brushed up against the branches against the wall. He said he apologized to the neighbors and agreed that it was a tight space. He then said he would talk to his boss about perhaps using a smaller dump truck the next time he returns to the area, which satisfied the neighbors.

11:56 a.m. The school resource officer investigated a general complaint on Gerry Street.

12:04 p.m. A vehicle crash was reported on Tedesco Street.

1:55 p.m. An officer was dispatched to West Shore Drive to take a report of a past package theft. The resident explained that he had ordered window tape valued at approximately $40 via Home Depot online. The man stated that the package had been delivered by FedEx, and he had received a confirmation email and photo showing the package had been delivered to

his front door at 2:35 p.m. on April 29. He had gotten home at 4:15 p.m. on the same day, and the package was missing. The man had checked with his one neighbor who had a camera, but the camera did not capture the incident. After searching the area, the officer was unable to locate any other cameras that may have caught the incident.

2:38 p.m. Services were rendered after a general complaint on Gerry and Pleasant streets.

9:02 p.m. Suspicious activity was reported on Summer Street.

resident to report the theft to the company and that a copy of his report would be available if she needed it. The officer also suggested that she check with her neighbors with the camera with whom he had been unable to speak to see if their cameras captured the theft.

9:13 a.m. Officers assisted a citizen on Pleasant Street.

12:47 p.m. An officer assisted another agency on Ruby Avenue.

3:05 p.m. An officer spoke at the police station with a woman who was having some computer trouble. She explained that she had called a number that she believed belonged to Xfinity to pay her internet bill. She said she had given the person on the other end of the phone no personal information, but she then learned from her bank that she seemed to have been double charged for the bill.

However, she could also find no pending charges at all when she logged into her account using the bank’s mobile app.

The whole situation made her concerned that something was going on with her computer.

The officer advised the woman to take her computer to Digital Docs on Monday morning to see what was going on with the laptop and to call her bank and see if she could talk with someone regarding her account.

The officer also advised her to monitor her accounts to ensure that she continued to not be out of any money.

5:31 p.m. An officer went to Edgemere Road to speak with a woman who reported that her landlord had come to the property to meet a fence company and entered her home without her permission to access her upstairs deck to look at the downspout just outside it. When the woman reminded the landlord that he needed to give her 24 hours’ notice before entering her home, he grew angry and stated that he wanted to kick her out, which disturbed her because she has been an excellent tenant for six years. For now, she just wanted the incident documented.

Gene Kelly Hower, 92 Gene Kelly Hower, 92, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Mariner Assisted Living facility in Marblehead.

Born in 1933, in St. Joseph, Missouri, Gene lived a long, full life marked by kindness, resilience and an easy sense of humor that drew people to him.

Gene was predeceased by his beloved wife of 45 years, Harriett Hower (née Kaplan),

Stephen Whitney Bradley, Sr., 81 Stephen Whitney Bradley, Sr., 81, died in Durham, North Carolina, on April 17, 2026.

He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit and the generous way he showed up for family, friends and people in need around the world.

Born in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1944 to Samuel Whitney Bradley and Mary Louise Rumsey, Stephen spent his childhood in nearby Marblehead with his older sister, Meredith, and younger brother, Robert. He loved to remember those early years: skating on Redd’s Pond and roaming the neighborhood from sunup to sundown with siblings and friends, already showing the energy, curiosity

Police From P. 15

» Building/property checks: 0 » Abandoned 911 calls: 0 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 7:21 a.m. Officers and firefighters responded to the scene of a vehicle crash involving a large tractor-trailer and a building on Atlantic Avenue.

Upon their arrival, responders observed a large tractor-trailer in the middle of Hawkes Street with what appeared to be power lines wedged between the cab and the trailer and part of the building located at 31 Atlantic Ave. scattered across the sidewalk and roadway. One of the officers approached the driver of the tractor-trailer and asked him what happened. He replied that he was making a delivery across the street to West Marine and had turned right off of Atlantic Avenue onto Hawkes Street to straighten out his truck so he could back down across the intersection to the loading dock to make his delivery. In doing so, the lowhanging wires from the pole across the street at 31 Atlantic Ave. got wedged between the cab of his truck and his trailer, which caused the top portion of bricks from the building to be pulled away from the structure.

After officers ran checks on the tractor-trailer and driver’s information and documented the scene, the Light Department and Highway Department arrived on scene to cut the wires free from the tractor-trailer and to clean up the debris. Once the scene was clear from any obstruction, the officers reopened the roadway.

7:27 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Intrepid Circle to speak to a resident about a neighbor dispute. A woman explained that every day she hears children running around in the unit above hers. Because she works for “the airlines,” she sleeps at random times during off hours, she explained.

She played a recording of the

commotion for the officer, which in the officer’s estimation “sounded typical of communal living.” The officer informed her that this was something that the management company could deal with. She replied that she had an appointment to speak with them later in the day. The officer advised her to keep records to provide to the management company.

7:45 a.m. An officer took a report over the phone from a man who had returned home the night before to unexpectedly find a “Clearview Pressure Washing” advertisement sign on his property. The man removed the sign and called the number listed and asked the company representative not to put advertisements on his property in the future. The man had then earlier in the morning received a text message from the owner of the company, who was upset about his complaint and how he handled the situation. The text message referred to the resident’s job and contained what could read as a vague threat that the business owner would “see him soon at the Y.” The officer said he would document the information and advised the man to block the business owner’s number and have no further contact with the company. A dispatcher ran an inquiry on the phone number, and it came back to someone other than the business owner.

1 p.m. The department’s school resource officer was given general information on Gerry Street.

2:22 p.m. Credit-card fraud was reported on Fader Place.

3:05 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Farrell Court.

7:42 p.m. Officers investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on West Shore Drive and Waterside Road. The vehicle could not be located.

Friday, May 1

» Alarms: 2 » Building/property checks: 10 » Abandoned 911 calls: 3 » Vehicle stops, citations: 3

Saturday, May 2

» Alarms: 1 » Building/property checks: 4 » Abandoned 911 calls: 1 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 12:14 a.m. Officers investigated a general complaint on Kenneth Road.

8:08 a.m. An officer was dispatched to West Shore Drive to speak to a woman who believed she had just seen a porch pirate pilfer a package that had been delivered on West Shore Drive. The woman explained that, as she was driving on West Shore Drive, she saw a man in a black-hooded sweatshirt riding an e-scooter or e-bike who had pulled to the side of the road, ran to the front steps of a West Shore Drive home, grabbed a package and then ran back to the bike. The man then placed the package on the rear of the bike and took off inbound on West Shore Drive.

Three officers searched the area but could not find anyone on an e-scooter or e-bike. An officer found security cameras at two nearby homes and was able to speak to one of the homeowners who checked their footage, but it had not recorded any activity in the area. The officer then spoke with the owner of the home from which the package had been stolen and learned that the package contained $77 worth of undergarments ordered from the online retailer Skims. The officer advised the

marbleheadcurrent.org

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Marblehead Current Wednesday, May 27, 2026 17

Headlight

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

www.mhsheadlight.com

May 27, 2026

Class of 2027 Junior Prom

Ranking the Academy Awards Best Picture nominees (2/2) Nathaniel Carper-Young, Senior

Georgia Marshall, Assistant Editor, Junior

Our chief movie critic, Nathaniel Carper-Young, continues his critique of this year's Best Picture nominees at the 98th Academy Awards, from worst to best. Here are his top five:

Prom is a one of a kind experience. Every high school student looks forward to it, almost as soon as they enter the school as a freshman. Eagerly, students from every grade discuss who’s going with who, what people are wearing, and who made the best promposal. As the date approaches, excitement seems to take over the whole school, especially the juniors, as they prepare for their first ever prom night. This year was no exception to the quintessential high school rite of passage. On Friday, May 15th, after months of planning, fundraisers, and preparation, the night arrived for MHS’s class of 2027 in an ominous drizzle of rain. However, by the time of the red carpet, the sprinkling had diminished, signifying the beginning of a perfect prom.

At 5:15 that evening, the entire junior class (and a few other dates) arrived at the high school. After having spent hours getting ready and taking photos, seeing the whole grade dressed up created a feeling of exhilaration. We were swiftly breathalyzed and transported to the gym, where we waited for the red carpet to begin. A huge group of students, parents, friends, and community members showed up to watch the procession and cheer every student on. We then loaded into buses and rode to Danversport Yacht Club, a beautiful venue that provided opportunities for photos on the water and mingling in a courtyard outside. The interior was no less enchanting, and after enjoying dinner, students quickly took to the dance floor. The DJ kept the music pumping all night long as people screamed the lyrics to every crowd pleaser, from “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers to “Love Story” by Taylor Swift. Dancing together united the grade in a way that can only be described as magical.

After such a successful night, it is safe to say that the 2027 class officers’ (Max Kane, President, Callie Gilmore, Vice President, Michael Labossiere, Secretary, and Lucy Rogers, Treasurer) hard work was paid off. Max Kane shares, “We couldn’t be more thrilled with how our Junior Prom went this year. The other class officers and I worked for over a year, and everything came together perfectly.

We’re so grateful to the entire class for their support!”

In the end, prom isn’t about which dress was worn or who escorted who along the red carpet. It was a celebration of us as a class, and a milestone in our high school careers. In the coming year, there will be stress and doubts and worries about our futures. But on the night of prom, we were able to leave behind our problems and differences, and celebrate everything we’ve achieved so far. In a way, it was a turning point between past, present, and future, and it couldn’t have gone better.

5. Bugonia Yorgos Lanthimos is a director who has built his career mostly off of a reputation for making “strange” movies; this adaptation of Save the Green Planet, an odd sci-fi environmental fable, continues neatly in that tradition, with an ensemble of strange performances from Emma Stone, Jesse Plemons, and podcaster-comedian Stavros Halkias, among others. It is not quite the director’s strongest effort and certainly not his weakest; it is a film boasting a degree of aesthetic intrigue, a degree of narrative intrigue, and some nice performances, and that is all. One might hope these minimal achievements would not get a film so high on a list such as this, but there you have it.

4. Sinners Finally, we have reached the selection of movies that I would be comfortable in calling “good.” Sinners is an extremely well-crafted, genuinely exciting horror film directed by Ryan Coogler (Fruitvale Station, Black Panther) finding its intrigue in racial prejudice and the power of music reframed through a semi-traditional Hollywood meta-narrative idea. The vampire film is given new life through Sinners; it is an excellent repurposing of a typically tired genre tradition.

3. Marty Supreme Much of the criticism I have heard about Marty Supreme is that it is little more than a remake of director Josh Safdie’s two previous efforts, Good Time and Uncut Gems. There is more than a grain of truth to this; just as in those two films, Marty Supreme is a frantically paced movie about a semi-charismatic guy (who is just as fun to watch on-screen as he would be miserable to hang out with) chasing a silly dream with mixed results. I simply happen to be someone who gets a great deal of enjoyment out of that formula, so Marty Supreme worked wonderfully for me.

2. The Secret Agent Director Kleber Mendonça Filho engineers in The Secret Agent an actual subversive masterpiece of novel intrigue. We find ourselves in a sun-soaked Brazil accompanying Wagner Moura’s Armando Solimões as he treks his way through both his country and his past. It reminds one more of The Long Goodbye than it does of, say, Dr. No; it is at its core a hangout film of the highest caliber.

I will not say more than this; I recommend only that you, reader, go watch it.

1. One Battle After Another A marvel, simply put. In this loose-as-can-be Pynchon adaptation, we find career-best performances from everyone involved, from DiCaprio to Penn to Del Toro to Taylor, and even debatably director Paul Thomas Anderson. The film is a total thrill from start to finish - on some occasions, the crowd-pleaser really is the one to rule them all.

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

FACULTY ADVISOR: Mr. Higgins

REPORTERS: Jack Buckley, Nathaniel Carper-Young, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, Will Pelliciotti, London Perlow, Mary Prindiville

marbleheadcurrent.org

18 Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Marblehead Current

Town marks Memorial Day with parade, services

Marblehead veterans — and members of Glover’s Regiment — lead the memorial Day parade up Pleasant street towards Memorial Park.

Marblehead Cub Scouts, alongside Veterans Agent Roseann TrifoniMazzuchelli, lead the crowd at Memorial Park in the Pledge of Allegiance.

BY GREY COLLINS Hundreds of people came out on a misty Memorial Day morning to honor Marblehead’s war dead. The town’s annual parade stepped off at 9 a.m., leaving from the Old Town House and stopping at Memorial Park.

To read more about Marblehead’s Memorial Day ceremonies, visit marbleheadcurrent.org.

CURRENT PHOTOS / GREY COLLINS

The Painters have gone.

Come see the work they left behind!

Arnould Gallery

& Framery

Interior & Exterior Painting Power Washing - Roofing General Carpentry Window Replacement

Original artworks with a North Shore Flair by local & regional artists since 1978 paintings | prints | fine crafts Custom framing and more

John Sutherland 781-589-2665

111 Washington St. Marblehead MA | 781-631-6366 genearnould@verizon.net | Gift Certificate Available

Salem • Marblehead

Since 1887, Pleon Yacht Club has been creating unforgettable summers for kids.

Another great season is almost here!

COMPREHENSIVE DESIGN & FULL-SERVICE REMODELING

218 Beacon Street Marblehead, MA 01945

Whole-home transformations • Thoughtfully integrated additions

wolfedesignbuildllc.com • 781.910.1463

781-631-2218 Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Whether your child is brand new to sailing or ready to move beyond dinghies, Adventure for Sailing (for roughly 11+ year olds) offers freedom, fun, and hands-on learning in flexible morning or afternoon two- and four-week sessions. Sailors explore local waters in a variety of boats while building skills, confidence, teamwork, and a love of being outdoors.

For more experienced sailors, Big Boat (for roughly 14+ year olds) meets Monday and Thursday evenings, giving kids the chance to crew and steer alongside local captains on Marblehead cruising and racing boats.

Register for Adventure Sailing, Big Boat, or both at Pleon.org

Support for the Life you Love Quality care, engaging programs, and a welcoming community at The Mariner Marblehead.

At The Mariner residents enjoy fresh and local dining, regular exercise classes, engaging programs and quality care - all while keeping the traditions and independence you love.

Discover life at The Mariner, call: 781.731.1583 or scan the QR code >> Discover Marblehead’s first and only Senior Living Community!

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Avita Memory Care 265 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

MarinerMarblehead.com