06.19.2024 – Volume 2, Issue 30

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SUMMER

Advice on paw-tecting your pups this season

IN THIS ISSUE

Page 13

MHS SOFTBALL

CURRENT EVENTS

Thenand-now snapshots

What’s ‘rotten’ at MLT?

Page 9

Page 14

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June 19, 2024

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EDUCATION

Teachers, district, town hit with civil rights lawsuit over student restraint

BY LEIGH BLANDER A civil rights lawsuit has been filed against the town, Marblehead Public Schools and several Glover School teachers and staff on behalf of a 9-yearold Black student who was allegedly improperly restrained.

“From September to December 2023, MPS employees at Glover brutally and impermissibly restrained (the student) on

numerous occasions,” the complaint filed in Suffolk Superior Court alleges.

It continues, “MPS employees at Glover also isolated (the student) in empty rooms, leaving him alone, upset and afraid. These employees’ actions terrified the student and caused him to suffer from severe asthma attacks and vomiting.”

According to the complaint, on Dec. 6, the student needed to be

transported to the hospital via ambulance because his asthma attack could not be controlled.

The suit names 11 Glover School teachers and staff.

“These are the people who have physically touched my client — teachers and other staff members,” said Lawyers for Civil Rights attorney Erika Richmond Walton, who is representing the student and his mother. Richmond

Walton told the Current the teachers are accused of assault and battery and violating the Massachusetts Civil Rights Act. The town and district are accused of negligence, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and negligent supervision, according to Richmond Walton.

The suit requests the defendants face a jury trial.

The student, who is part of the METCO program, started

at Glover last September and remained there until March.

According to the complaint, he suffers from asthma, is just over four feet tall and weighs 50 pounds.

The complaint alleges that the boy is now afraid of school and his teachers say he is showing signs of trauma. Both he and his mother are in therapy as a result of the experiences in SUIT, P. A2

INCLUSIVITY

EDUCATION

ADA noncompliance postpones ‘Rapidly Abbot Library reopening intensifying dispute’ ‘Crisis’ among school employees prompts call for investigation

BY LEIGH BLANDER

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Marblehead Building Commissioner Steve Cummings says the library’s front entrance ramp is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

BY WILL DOWD The grand reopening of the Abbot Public Library, following its $10 million renovation, has been postponed due to accessibility compliance issues with the front entrance ramp, the library’s Board of Trustees announced Friday.

Marblehead Building Commissioner Steve Cummings said the library’s front entrance ramp, which spans 79 feet, lacks necessary landings and handrails on both sides — features required by law for any ramp exceeding 30 feet in length.

“Anybody with accessibility issues has the right to go up the front walkway like everybody else,” Cummings told the Current. “If it can be done, it should be done.”

Just hours before a gala fundraising event on Friday evening, the Abbot

COURTESY PHOTO

The public will have to wait a little longer to see the inside of the newly renovated library, while crews address accessibility issues with the building’s front ramp.

Library Trustees released a statement saying they “were recently made aware of a potential accessibility compliance issue with the sloped walkway.”

The gala continued as scheduled,

but was limited to the lower floor of the library. The June 20 reopening celebration has been postponed, however.

The School Committee will vote at its June 20 meeting on hiring an independent investigator to look into “multiple formal complaints of harassment and discrimination” filed by district employees, according to a statement sent to the community June 13 by interim Superintendent Theresa McGuinness.

The statement does not provide details on the subject of the complaints, but does say, “The contemporary political climate has fanned strong emotions and divisiveness. We are aware of a rapidly intensifying dispute among groups of school district employees.”

A few days earlier, on June 10, Veterans School teacher Brigitte Karns spoke on a webinar called “Combating Antisemitism Summit — Massachusetts Schools” hosted

by ICAN, the Israeli-American Civic Action Network.

In that webinar, Karns described what she called a “quiet crisis in Marblehead schools.”

“Marblehead has been knowingly supporting a hostile work environment for some of the Jewish teachers and students,” Karns said. “The Marblehead Education Association is using intimidation tactics to silence Jews and then the administration is perpetuating antisemitic and anti-Israel ideology by remaining silent.”

Karns did not respond to requests for comment.

During the webinar, Karns went on to accuse a specific Marblehead teacher of antisemitic comments praising Hitler and disrespecting Jewish students. Karns also accused this teacher of removing the Israeli flag from a school cafeteria, crumpling it in a

LIBRARY, P. A3

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A2 Wednesday, June 19, 2024 Marblehead Current

DECISION ’24

Fox tops ticket in Select Board race neWS FOR PeOPLe, nOT FOR PROFIT.

BY WILL DOWD Political newcomer Daniel Fox topped the ticket in a race for Select Board in an annual town election with higher stakes than usual June 11.

With the town instituting staggered terms for the Select Board this year, the top two vote-getters stood to gain full three-year terms, with the next two highest vote-getters earning two-year terms and the fifth-place finisher a one-year term.

According to the results posted

by Town Clerk Robin Michaud on June 12, Fox secured 2,472 votes across Marblehead’s six precincts to claim one of the three-year terms with relative ease.

Incumbent Moses Grader will join Fox in serving a three-year term, having received 2,011 votes.

Incumbents Erin Noonan and Alexa Singer earned two-year terms with 1,993 and 1,922 votes, respectively, while Bret Murray secured a one-year term with 1,878 votes.

Dan Albert fell short in his election bid, finishing sixth with 1,027 votes.

“I feel overwhelmed and humbled by the support,” Fox said of his victory. “And I am looking forward to getting to work.”

When asked what he thought his win says about the current state of Marblehead, Fox replied, “I think people are looking for some change and some fresh ideas and a new perspective. I think there’s been a lot of discourse, and hopefully we can all work together.”

Regarding his top priorities as a new Select Board member, Fox stated, “Clearly, we need to fix our structural deficit. We need to work on the MBTA, and I think we need to work with creating a better relationship with other boards,” specifically mentioning

CO-CHAIRPERSONS

Jessica Barnett Ed Bell NEWSROOM Editor - Leigh Blander

lblander@marbleheadnews.org

Community Editor - Will Dowd wdowd@marbleheadnews.org

Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

Sports Reporter Joe McConnell

jmcconnell@marbleheadnews.org

COURTESY PHOTO

Voter turnout was about 20% on June 11.

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Dan Fox is the town’s newest Select Board member.

had previously announced her intention to cede the race.

Gallant, whose name remained on the ballot, received 923 votes.

Horton, a public health advocate, emphasized her commitment to amplifying the voices of Housing Authority tenants during her campaign.

Precinct 1 saw the highest turnout in both races, with 3,545 ballots cast for each board.

Write-in win

CURRENT PHOTO / L\A GORBACH

Town Clerk Robin Michaud swears in Select Board members from left to right: Alexa Singer, Dan Fox, Erin Noonan and Moses Grader. Missing is Bret Murray.

the importance of improving relations with the School Committee.

The race for the Recreation and Parks Commission saw incumbents Karin Ernst and Shelly Curran Bedrossian lead the way with 1,954 and 1,915 votes, respectively. Rossana Ferrante, Linda A. Rice Collins and Matthew Martin will round out the board, having received 1889,

1,779 and 1,773 votes, respectively.

Challenger Richard W. Jordan finished sixth with 1,433 votes.

Kristin duBay Horton secured the Marblehead Housing Authority seat vacated by longtime commissioner Pam Foye to serve a five-year term on the five-member commission.

Horton received 1,029 votes across the town’s six precincts, defeating Laura Gallant, who

Former School Committee member Jonathan Lederman defeated incumbent Doug Percy and fellow challenger Phillip Blaisdell to win a three-year term on the Board of Assessors via a successful write-in campaign.

Lederman received 229 write-in votes across the town’s six precincts, outpacing Percy and Blaisdell, who also ran as write-in candidates. Blaisdell received a total of 106 write-in votes in his challenge.

Percy did not file nomination papers to appear on the ballot for reelection; he received 66 write-in votes.

Lederman did not return the Current’s request for comment.

Kris Olson and Lia Gorbach, the Current’s college intern, contributed reporting.

Interns Benji Boyd Lia Gorbach CONTRIBUTORS

Jo Ann Augeri Silva Stephen Bach Bob Baker Linda Bassett Grey Collins Nicole Goodhue-Boyd Laurie Fullerton Mark Hurwitz John Lamontagne Christine McCarriston Eyal Oren Pam Peterson Chris Stevens Lisa Sugarman Linda Werbner BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Virginia Buckingham - President Gene Arnould Jessica Barnett Ed Bell Francie King Robert Peck Donna Rice David Vigneron Richard Weed - Treasurer EDITORIAL BOARD

Ed Bell Virginia Buckingham Kris Olson Will Dowd Robert Peck Joseph P. Kahn DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kathryn Whorf FOUNDERS

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

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Suit

From P. A1 Marblehead, according to the complaint.

Restraint investigation A student restraint on Nov. 20 resulted in the departure of then-MPS student services director Paula Donnelly and assistant director Emily Dean. (The district paid Donnelly and Dean nearly $120,000 in separation agreements.)

The student services chair at Glover, Ann Haskell, was fired and has filed suit against the district. Three other Glover educators have been on leave since late last year because of the alleged restraint.

An outside review

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

A civil rights lawsuit has been filed against the town, school district and several Glover School teachers and staff, alleging a student was illegally restrained multiple times.

by Comprehensive Investigations and Consulting determined that Glover staff did violate restraint policies.

Interim superintendent Theresa McGuinness initiated retraining and changes based on CIC’s recommendations.

According to the state Department of Education (regulation 603 CMR 46.00) students

with asthma may not be physically restrained.

The CIC report said staff used what’s called a “reverse transport,” where two people place their hands under the student’s arms and walk him backwards. Staff impropoerly transported the student because they continued to drag him briefly after he fell twice, according to CIC.

WATER & SEWER RATES LEGAL NOTICE TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD, MA BOARD OF WATER AND SEWER COMMISSIONERS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Marblehead Water and Sewer Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. at the Water and Sewer Commission Office, 100 Tower Way, Building #11 and via Zoom. Join Zoom Meeting at https:// us06web.zoom.us/j/81495954668 or dial +1 646 558 8656 US or +1 646 931 3860. Meeting ID: 814 9595 4668. The purpose of the hearing is to review and set water and sewer rates and fees for the coming year.

All interested persons are invited to attend.

F. Carlton Siegel, Chairman Water and Sewer Commission

The boy was taken into a “break space,” and the door was closed, according to the report.

“Staff noticed that (the student) was coughing, opened the door and offered him water. He continued to cough after drinking some water and threw up,” according to the CIC report.

The report continues that an employee went to the nurse’s office to get the student something, which he was able to use “independently.”

‘Unlawful and dangerous’ According to the civil rights suit, “Marblehead staff isolated and locked (the student) in empty rooms on multiple occasions leaving him alone, upset and terrified.

In one incident, (the student) was violently shoved into an isolation space causing him to hit his head against the wall.”

The suit also accuses staff of denying the “student his medication while in isolation, which caused him to cough so hard that he eventually threw up” and restraining the student to the point of “needing to be rushed to the hospital by ambulance for emergency treatment following an asthma attack that could not be controlled.”

“Marblehead’s actions are unlawful and dangerous,” LCR said in a press release, which noted that the student’s mistreatment was originally reported anonymously to the Massachusetts Department of Children

and Families by another Marblehead school employee who witnessed the abuse.

Even after the Nov. 4 incident, the student continued to be restrained until his mother removed him from the district in March, the complaint claims.

“There has been no accountability for the significant harm and trauma that this child continues to experience,” said Richmond Walton.

“This lawsuit was filed to send one clear message to Marblehead and other districts in the Commonwealth: Unlawful physical restraints performed on children of color will not go unaddressed. It’s time for systemic change.”

Earlier this year, LCR successfully settled a similar matter against the Walpole Public Schools, where a 9-year-old Black boy was handcuffed by police and forcibly removed from the classroom.

Reached for comment, School Committee Chair Sarah Fox and McGuinness sent the same statement: “The School District will review this pending litigation with counsel, and counsel will advise on the appropriate response. As always, we place the safety and wellbeing of our students and our staff members above all else.”

The Marblehead Education Association, which represents the three Glover educators still on leave, did not respond to a request for comment.

Marblehead News 217 Humphrey St. Marblehead, Massachusetts 01945 617-545-5445 info@marbleheadnews.org www.marbleheadCurrent.org Marblehead Current is published every Wednesday by Marblehead News Group, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It is mailed to all homes and businesses in Marblehead, MA 01945.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, June 19, 2024 A3

EDUCATION

Teachers rally for better contract

BY WILL DOWD Hundreds of teachers marched from Marblehead High School to the Brown School, where they held a rally before the latest collective bargaining session with the School Committee’s bargaining subcommittee on June 11. The Marblehead Education Association agreed to another negotiating meeting on July 16.

“With contracts set to expire in the coming weeks, the MEA hopes to receive a comprehensive package from the School Committee at their next session which addresses the many problems outlined by the union to date,” the MEA wrote in a post-rally press release.

During the June 11 negotiation, the subcommittee and union exchanged wage proposals and “agreed that there is room for improvement to benefit some students requiring additional supports,” according to a statement sent by School Committee Chair Sarah Fox.

According to Hannah Hood, a fourth-grade teacher and collective bargaining committee member, the MEA is “advocating for paid parental leave for our workers for everybody. That includes all five units of our staff, including custodians, parents, tutors, custodians, as well as educators.”

She added, “We would like to have fair wages for all. And that includes making sure that every single person who works for

the district is getting paid a fair wage that is above low-income status.”

Kristen Grohe, a fifth-grade special education teacher, spoke passionately at the rally.

“As chaos has swirled around us the past four years, we as staff have carried the students through each and every single day,” she said. “It is time for the district to show us the respect we deserve. For too long, we’ve attempted to work and partner

From P. A1

Library From P. A1

“The Board of Trustees thanks the town of Marblehead and the Marblehead Disabilities Commission for their diligence in assuring that we are providing a safe and accessible building for the community to enjoy for years to come,” read the Trustees’ statement. “The event will be rescheduled once all concerns are addressed. We thank you

these claims internally.

Unfortunately, the allegations made by the persons involved have escalated to the point that these investigators themselves cannot proceed without being subjected to accusations of having a conflict. Recognizing the district’s obligation to investigate all of these complaints, regardless of who is making them, we intend to take necessary steps to have the complaints investigated in a manner that is thorough and that can be viewed as objective by all who are involved.”

The statement also reads, “The Marblehead Public Schools condemns racism, antisemitism and discrimination in all its forms and manners. We take all allegations of hate and discrimination very seriously.”

The Marblehead teachers union wrote in a separate statement, “First and foremost, the MEA categorically rejects hate speech, bias and prejudice in all forms. All educators in Marblehead Public Schools are entitled to the contractual and statutory right of representation by the MEA, regardless of the matter.

The MEA is committed to supporting a safe and inclusive school culture for all our members and students.”

The MEA statement continued: “We look forward to the School Committee conducting a thorough investigation of this matter so our community can learn and move forward.”

Visit MarbleheadCurrent.org for updates.

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Teachers and supporters gather outside the Brown School, holding signs that read “We Stand Together” during the Marblehead Education Association rally June 11.

Schools ball and throwing it in a corner.

Karns identified the teacher by her initials. That teacher spoke to the Current and asked that she not be identified “out of concerns for my family’s safety.”

“For the record, I categorically deny and wholeheartedly refute with every fiber of my being any of the statements or actions that Brigitte references in the webinar,” the accused teacher said.

After the webinar aired and was shared on social media, several people commented angrily about the accusations against the teacher. One man posted an expletive-laced comment that ended, “Shame on the Marblehead School

with an administration that has simply refused to address the needs of us as educators.”

Teacher Shelley Burns emphasized the importance of the community supporting educators.

“We teachers deserve the same as everyone else. We take care of your children,” Burns said.

“That’s a big deal. And we deserve to have a living wage, because currently it’s not enough.”

Kathryn Homan, an ESL

teacher, emphasized that supporting schools is essential.

“And if you don’t support the schools, you’re not supporting the future of the community,” she said.

She noted that people are attracted to Marblehead because of its educational system, making it crucial to treat both teachers and students with the respect they deserve.

“We all know the sacrifices that teachers, parents, tutors, custodians, everybody has [made],” said Michael Giardi, a long-time educator and coach, as he rallied the crowd outside the Brown School. “You are committed to your children here in this school. We’ve been here through the worst of it. And I do mean the worst of it.”

He added, “From COVID to administrator after administrator after administrator, you’re the ones that have always been here in spite of everything that has happened.”

Leigh Blander contributed reporting.

COURTESY IMAGE

Veterans School teacher Brigitte Karns described a “quiet crisis” of antisemitism during a webinar on June 10.

Committee. Violence is the only answer for these a–h—-.”

“Given the coded references to me, the damage has already been done, and I have been tarred with this despicable brush,” the accused teacher said. “In fact, it’s only getting worse given how this has spread on social media, for example, on local community

for your patience and look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Abbot Public Library very soon.”

Cummings said a permanent occupancy permit would not be issued until the front entrance gets resolved. In the meantime, heissued two temporary-occupancy permits for the library, one for the gala fundraiser and another for employees to work in the building.

While she understands all of the hard work that

Facebook pages and WhatsApp. I am worried for my and my family’s safety and have already been in touch with the police.”

Meanwhile, McGuinness’ statement explained why she is calling for an outside investigation.

“The district has attempted, as is our obligation, to investigate

has been done, Laurie Blaisdell, chair of the Marblehead Disabilities Commission, said the public library should be fully accessible. State law stipulates that if the cost of renovations exceeds $100,000 or 30% of the building’s value, the space must be brought up to ADA standards.

“I think everyone wants this to be a model for accessibility,” Blaisdell

said.

In addition to the ramp, several other minor ADA compliance gaps were identified during the building commissioner’s recent review, including non-compliant sinks and counters in the basementlevel program room and the lack of a proper fire refuge area for wheelchair users. Trustees Chair Gary Amberik said those issues have since been

resolved.

The accessibility issues at the library echo an incident with the Riptide Restaurant, which also struggled to meet ADA compliance with its front entrance in connection with a $500,000 renovation project.

The Abbot Library, located at 235 Pleasant St., closed in October 2022 to undergo the major overhaul. Patrons

and residents have been anticipating the unveiling of new features like a redesigned main floor, accessible courtyard, makerspace and more.

The $10 million project budget included $8.5 million in taxpayer funds approved via a tax override vote in June 2021, plus an additional $1.5 million raised privately by the Abbot Public Library Foundation.

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A4 Wednesday, June 19, 2024 Marblehead Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

Trust the processes

Normally, the end of the school year is a time to exhale and reflect.

But for a number of Marblehead educators and administrators, recent days have been anything but restful.

The School Committee is expected to vote tomorrow night to approve hiring an independent investigator to look into “multiple formal complaints of harassment and discrimination” that have, at their heart, what interim Superintendent Theresa McGuinness described as the “strong emotions and divisiveness” that have been spawned by Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Oct. 7 and the ensuing war in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the district and several members of the Glover School staff have been named as defendants in a lawsuit over a series of student restraint incidents, which led to a group of teachers being placed on a leave and the dismissal of a pair of administrators and a student services chair.

Neither of these are criminal matters — though, disturbingly, teachers involved in the first matter were concerned enough about their safety to seek help from Marblehead Police. But the presumption of “innocence” — or at least an acknowledgement that we may not know all the facts — should be a guiding principle nonetheless.

In one sense, though profoundly unfortunate, it is hardly surprising that differences of opinion related to the war in Gaza have boiled over behind the walls of Marblehead High School. On the state level, we have seen the Massachusetts Teachers Association attempt to address the war, first with a statement and later with a webinar titled, “The Struggle Against Anti-Palestinian Racism,” only to be told forcefully that it had wildly missed the mark by its own members and the AntiDefamation League, among others.

However, escalation is not the only way these discussions can go. Earlier in the same online “summit” that Veterans School teacher Brigitte Karns described what she called a “quiet crisis in Marblehead schools,” Marblehead High School freshman David Magen discussed his experience addressing an ahistorical — and, in his view, antisemitic — reference to Palestine on a school assignment. Magen, who has since founded an organization Fighting Antisemitism In Schools (FAIS), took it upon himself to communicate his concern to his teacher, which led to a meeting that also included the principal. Collaboratively, a decision was made not only to discontinue the use of the worksheet in question but to include Magan in the development of the curriculum moving forward.

Key characteristics of this interaction, it would seem to us, would be a willingness to listen and a lack of reflexive defensiveness or divisiveness — by all parties.

In terms of the complaints of harassment and discrimination related to the interpersonal disputes among adults working for the schools, we support the commissioning of an independent investigation, which seems necessary under the circumstances.

There’s a larger picture, too, related to the student restraint lawsuit, at least in the view of the organization that filed it, Lawyers for Civil Rights.

Earlier this year, LCR settled a similar matter against the Walpole Public Schools, where a 9-year-old Black boy was handcuffed by police and forcibly removed from the classroom. That settlement involved the district issuing a formal apology to the student and his family and committing to additional training.

To LCR, the Marblehead case is part of “a growing epidemic of unlawful physical restraint being used specifically against children of color in Massachusetts schools.” As in Walpole, the Marblehead case involves a student of color attending a predominantly white school district through the Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity (METCO) program.

Unless a settlement is reached, a judge or jury will decide whether the parallel LCR has drawn is a fair one. LCR notes that after another Marblehead school employee made an anonymous report to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, DCF sustained allegations of neglect against five Marblehead employees. An outside review has already determined that Glover staff did violate restraint policies, which prompted McGuinness to institute retraining and other changes. But whether the actions of the Glover staff also constitute assault and battery, negligence and a violation of the student’s civil rights is another matter.

Given that these situations, fairly or unfairly, raise the specter of antisemitism, Islamophobia and institutional racism, there can be a near-irresistible urge to make a snap judgment on which side is right based on our own biases and life experiences.

But it is precisely in such fraught situations where process serves its highest purpose.

We would all be well served to take a deep breath and let these processes play out.

KEEP THE CURRENT COMING

After a long career in newspapers, here’s why I support the Current

BY DONNA RICE My newspaper career started at the Marblehead Reporter at 8 Anderson St, in the early 1980s. I was 21 and the advertising representative for the real estate section of the paper.

There was never a dull moment.

This was before computers, cell phones, the internet or even fax machines. There was a steady stream of people stopping by to deliver letters to the editor, place an ad, drop off a photo, give a tip or offer a complaint…we saw it all in that small, loud office. There was a colorful cast of characters on both sides of the counter, and I loved it.

I felt a sense of pride each week seeing the finished paper coming off the presses and hitting the streets, knowing I played some small part in getting that paper into homes. And knowing that we had done our best to support the town by providing essential local news to a vibrant, informed community.

I went on to work for newspapers for over 30 years. I worked for some of the oldest community newspapers in the country and helped launch quite a few new ones. I worked for the Boston Globe, New York Times Digital, Boston.com and over 100 weeklies combined.

The sense of pride I felt at creating something weekly, daily or online, never changed. I knew people looked to us, newspapers, to get the real story, and I wanted to make sure they could count on us being there with dependable news, telling the whole story.

And the times we got it wrong, they could trust we would own up to that and do our best to set the record straight.

In the early 2000s, the publisher of The Boston Globe held a small lunch to honor journalists at the paper who had been embedded with troops. I was invited, the lunch was held in the publisher’s dining room, just one table with 10-12 people. One-byone each of these incredibly talented and dedicated journalists shared stories involving close calls, rooftop escapes, the guides (locals and taxi drivers) who took big risks to help our reporters get the story for our

Join me and to help support the Current to keep this paper, which so many (including me) have grown to depend on and love, coming.

readers. The whole time I was listening thinking, “Why am I here?” When it was my turn to speak, I introduced myself and explained that my small contribution was working with my team to secure funding from advertisers, and together with the Department of Defense, we were able to deliver special copies of the paper (actual papers) to the troops. To be honest, it felt incredibly insignificant in comparison to the accomplishments of this group, a few going on to win Pulitzers even. Then the reporters and photographers there thanked me. They shared how much they appreciated and counted on the sales staff to deliver the funds to allow them to do their jobs, and to get the paper out each day.

With the demise of so many community newspapers, including my hometown paper the Marblehead Reporter, I saw an opportunity to get involved to support the Marblehead Current as a volunteer board member and to oversee advertising sales.

I invite you to join me and to help support the Current to keep this paper, which so many (including me) have grown to depend on and love, coming. And the next time you see the paper, whether it’s in your mailbox or when you are out around town, you can join me in feeling that sense of pride in knowing we are doing our part to sustain a local independent newspaper and engage the community in a meaningful way.

To make a donation please visit MarbleheadCurrent. org/donate. The Current Board of Directors will match all donations up to $3,000.

And … if you happen to own a business or offer a service, can I interest you in an ad?

Donna Rice is a member of the Current’s Board of Directors and oversees advertising.

ASK LIZZIE

Keeping summer hands-on

BY LIZZIE ASSA

Dear Lizzie, I am trying to lean more into hands-on play than screens this summer for my five-year-old. He loves when I set up activities for him, but I don’t always have time to stop what I am doing and set something up. What is something I can prepare in advance that I can easily pull out when he asks?

Bonus points if my two-year-old can do it, too.

Thanks in advance.

Hi reader, Make some room in your freezer because I’ve got an activity that won’t cost a dime and will engage both your toddler and your five-year-old. First, I’ll tell you how to set up this activity for your big kid, and then I’ll explain how to adapt it for your toddler.

Here is what you’ll need: » Ice cube trays » Sensory table or a shallow bin » Drop cloth or towel » Small items like animals, Legos, pom-poms » Water » Salt » Spray bottle of water Find small treasures around your house that you know your child will love. You can put anything into your water before it freezes. Some examples are small animals, pompoms, sequins, beads or natural materials like flowers or shells. You can freeze anything you have lying around.

Put the trays in the freezer overnight. When your child is looking for something to do, put the cubes into a big bowl or your child’s water table and provide them with a small dish of table salt and a spray bottle of water.

Here are some ways to encourage inquiry while they are working on ice play: Child: What do I do?

You: Hmmm, I wonder…

Child dumps salt over the cubes. They crackle.

Resist the urge to point out the science of what is happening. I know that might sound counterintuitive, but hold your tongue. Allowing the child their own discovery and then supporting that is much more valuable than pointing it out yourself.

Child: It is crackling!!

You: Oh yeah! I hear it cracking, too.

Child: The ice is getting rough and cracky.

You: Oh wow, I see that, too! The ice changes when you put the salt on it.

Child: I can’t get my marbles out. Help me!

You: Hmm, I see that. The marbles are frozen deep inside. How can you get to them?

Child: I can try to smooth them.

You: Okay, check and see if that works.

You can see from this sample conversation that your job is to reflect on your child’s observations and put the “work” of discovery back on them.

Now let’s talk about setting this up for your twoyear-old. Freeze water in a large bowl or Tupperware container. You can add large Duplo toys or other toys, but the trick is to keep it simple. If this is the first time you are introducing ice play to your toddler, stick with just the ice, with nothing frozen inside. Simple is usually better with young children.

Put down a large drop cloth on the floor. Plop the ice directly on the drop cloth and skip a large bin. Wet LIZZIE, P. A5

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LETTERS

Wait for the courts To the editor: The MBTA zoning mandate is a clear case of overreach

by Governors Charlie Baker and Maura Healey and the Legislature on Beacon Hill.

The problem with the MBTA question has nothing to do with

messaging or a better organized campaign. It is an effort to convince voters of the supposed benign intentions of the statute.

It is a violation of home rule law by the state. Each community in Massachusetts has the right to determine zoning regulations that best fit unique needs of each community.

If this is a mandate, then why

is it necessary for Article 36 to be brought up for a vote at all? The argument has been made that because it is law, voters should just accept it and move on.

The act is currently before the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial court, which will decide on the constitutionality of the law.

There are a number of communities that do not agree

with the MBT zoning mandate.

They believe it is too vague and with no guarantee that will do anything significant to lower housing prices.

Now there is a push to have a special town meeting before the Dec. 31 deadline to force it through. I suggest we reject article 36 and allow the SJC to decide on the merits of the

law. If the court agrees that it is lawful, the town should convene a special meeting in 2025 and put the measure up for another vote. Let’s let the judiciary have its say and move forward with that information so that voters will be able to make an informed decision.

Charles M Dignam Commercial Street

SUSTAINABLE MARBLEHEAD

Paving the way for more electric vehicles

BY KEITH WEBSTER The global conversation surrounding climate change and environmental sustainability has propelled the adoption of clean energy solutions. Among these, electric vehicles have emerged as a frontrunner in the quest to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impact of fossil fuel consumption on the planet.

Globally, governments have recognized the importance of transitioning to cleaner transportation alternatives and introduced rebates and incentives encouraging the adoption of EVs. The U.S. government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of qualifying electric vehicles.

The state of Massachusetts adds an additional rebate of up to $3,500. Similar discounts are available for purchasing used vehicles or for leasing.

Prerequisites including vehicle cost, household income and component manufacturing location are factors but these incentives not only make EVs more affordable for consumers but also help stimulate demand and drive innovation in the EV market.

Marblehead Municipal Light Department has an incentive program for those registering their EV or plug-in hybrid vehicle in Marblehead.

Residents receive a free or

discounted level 2 residential EV charger when enrolling in the scheduled charging program.

Participants have full charging functionality except from 5-9 p.m. on weekdays. Avoiding this peak time window is important because it reduces strain on our town’s electrical infrastructure and helps us lower demand during costly peak demand hours. Charging resumes after 9 p.m. and the vehicle owner will wake up in the morning with ample EV driving range. MMLD General Manager Joe Kowalik estimates only one in four Marblehead-registered EVs are in the program and encourages all EV owners to learn more by visiting marbleheadelecctric. com.

While EVs were once considered a luxury purchase, advancements in technology, manufacturing processes and increased competition have made EVs more accessible to average consumers.

Furthermore, as the automotive

industry continues to invest in research and development, the cost of battery production — the most expensive component of an EV — is steadily decreasing.

This trend, combined with economies of scale and improved manufacturing techniques, is driving down the overall cost of EVs. Currently over a dozen EV models in the U.S. are available for under $40,000. Chevrolet’s Bolt is under $20,000 and their Equinox SUV with a range of over 300 miles sells for less than $30,000 after the federal tax credit. According to Cars.com there will be more than 100 fully electric models for sale in the U.S. by next year. The increasing affordability of EVs, coupled with government incentives, has made them a viable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

A primary concern for those considering buying an EV is the availability of charging infrastructure. The term “range anxiety” has become a colloquialism and without allaying buyers’ fears on this front, adoption of EVs could stagnate. Fortunately, significant investments are being made to expand and improve the charging infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of EVs on the road.

This includes the installation of

A primary concern for those considering buying an EV is the availability of charging infrastructure.

Fortunately, significant investments are being made to expand and improve the charging infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of EVs on the road. public charging stations along highways and at workplaces.

According to DriveElectric.gov, the number of fast chargers increased by 36% between April 2023 and April 2024. Other developing technologies, such as higher density batteries that hold a charge longer, are being developed and will also help get drivers more comfortable with making the switch.

Advancements in charging technology are making it faster and more convenient to recharge EV batteries. Improving charging times to mirror the time it takes to refill a gas tank is a major milestone. Tesla’s supercharging stations can add up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. In urban settings, the challenge has been access to charging for people living in apartments and high-rises.

A New York startup called Gravity has announced their new “charging tree” technology that not only keeps the sidewalks clear of wires but also has the capability to add 200 miles of range in just five minutes.

French automaker Renault is leading the way on “vehicle to grid” technology, which enables EVs to support grid resilience through bidirectional charging.

Customers receive a free charger and discounts of up to 50% on their power bills in exchange for allowing their vehicle’s battery to deliver energy to the grid.

As we look towards the future, the widespread adoption of electric vehicles holds the promise of a cleaner and more sustainable transportation system. We’re at an important point in this transition as options are plentiful, costs are going down and charging infrastructure is growing. To learn more and test drive an EV, please plan on attending the Sustainability Fair on Sept. 28 at Marblehead High School from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

More information available at sustainablemarblehead.org/ sustainability-fair.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Keith Webster is a member of Sustainable Marblehead’s Clean Energy & Public Policy Working Group.

MARBLEHEAD CHRONICLES

When Marblehead hit tough times

economic success was destroyed by loss of men, ships and access to trade routes. In 1775, over

12,000 tons of shipping were sent from Marblehead. After the war, that number was reduced to

1,500 tons.

The town of Marblehead had sent almost 1,800 men to

fight in the Revolution, a huge number for a population of approximately 5,000-6,000.

Faced with desperate times, Marbleheaders began to revive the fishing trade to support themselves. They struggled to survive, even tearing down fishing shacks to use as firewood.

The town reached out as best it could to help the many veterans, widows and orphans, as did their neighbors and friends. Throughout these bleak post-Revolutionary War years, despite all the hardships, there was never doubt or regret about the correctness or importance of their fight for freedom.

The American Revolution took all that Marblehead had to give.

At the end of the 18th century, the town faced the difficult work of reestablishing itself, working its way back to economic stability, rebuilding its fishing and trading fleets, and preparing for the challenges of the 19th century.

Pam Peterson chairs the Marblehead Historical Commission. She is the former Marblehead Museum executive director.

tools to explore the ice with.

Babies and young toddlers will hit, poke and touch the big, cold ice block as they begin to make sense of it. Resist the urge to talk and talk. Allow them to take the lead. Be a quiet presence

and observe thoughtfully.

Reflect on their sounds and motions. Repeat this activity often. Repetition allows them to master the experience and allows you to really see how they are developing.

The best part? Both kids will be engaged in play, and you can sit back and relax. Ice play is valuable for children of all ages.

You can always add accessories like color and loose parts, but for most children, regular old

ice can provide lots of fun and learning.

Lizzie Assa is founder of The Workspace for Children, a parenting strategist, play expert and mother of three who lives in Marblehead.

BY PAM PETERSON When the American Revolution ended, the Treaty of Paris was ratified by the new Congress in 1784.

The entire new United States was struggling, suffering from post-war economic depression.

There was a currency shortage, high taxes due, unpaid creditors, foreclosures and bankruptcies.

Many of the financial backers of the Revolution lost their fortunes. In Marblehead, Jeremiah Lee and King Hooper were prime examples of these losses, one as a Patriot and one as a Loyalist.

In the space of 10 years, Marblehead had gone from being one of the most prosperous towns in the American colonies to a scene of financial ruin. The town was in shambles. Fishing vessels that had been turned into privateers were wrecked.

The thriving merchant trade that had been part of Marblehead’s

Lizzie From P. A4

down the ice so that it is wet and slippery. Give your child some wooden spoons or other

COURTESY PHOTO

“America: To Those Who Wish to Sheath the Desolating Sword of War,” a 1781 engraving by R.E. Pine, is kept by the American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati.

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COURTESY PHOTO / CANDICE SLINEY

MHS students and graduates attend the Juneteenth celebration. Back row, left to right: Bitovin Romain, Trinity Hobson, Emiyah Setalsingh, Anais Disla Soto, Christian Weston, Le’Daisha Williams, Damiola Graciella Olabisi, Ketsia Kiamanga; and front row left to right: Armani Villar, Stephen Pinto Do Rosario, Thomas Tadesse, Vidal Clark, Bernardo Bannis, Jordan McFarlene, Aison Colon and Shakayla Baxter.

COMMEMORATING FREEDOM

Marblehead celebrates its fourth annual Juneteenth ceremony

BY LIA GORBACH The Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination held its fourth annual Juneteenth ceremony on Wed., June 12, at Abbot Hall.

Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of Black Americans who had been enslaved in the United States.

The one-hour program began with an introduction by emcee and Marblehead High School teacher Candice Sliney.

Then, African dance and drum instructor Greg Coles beat a steady rhythm on a gobletshaped drum.

Coles introduced the traditional African drum, a jembe, and explained the

meaning of the word. Jembe means “to gather people in peace.”

Coles reminded the crowd that no personal effects were allowed on slave ships and the absence of the instrument proved difficult.

“To not have this drum, to recreate this rhythm, was a great psychological challenge. These rhythms are so important … I’m thankful for the jembe,” Cole said.

Among the crowd were Select Board members Dan Fox and Erin Noonan and MHS students, faculty and alumni.

Following Coles, Noonan took the stand, saying, “Please use this upcoming federal holiday as a time to reflect, learn and take action.”

Next to the podium was Kashawn Little, a football coach at Beverly High School, social worker and member of the North Shore Juneteenth Association.

“Marblehead, what’s good with you? I’m from a Black church, so we may be here all night,” Little joked.

Little highlighted activist Opal Lee’s persistence in making Juneteenth a federal holiday, which was declared in 2021.

He then urged the crowd to approach the upcoming national election with a sense of urgency, saying that rights are at stake.

“We cannot elect people to any government position who don’t believe in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for

CURRENT PHOTO / LIA GORBACH

Members of the Lynn English High School ROTC raise the Juneteenth flag at Abbot Hall on June 12.

all,” Little said, emphasizing the word all.

Fifteen MHS students participated in the ceremony this year. Sliney introduced student Damilola Graciella Olabisi, who shared a poem.

“The difference between you and me is that your heritage is celebrated daily, while mine is confined to one month,” Olabisi recited.

Next, several students shared what a “world of justice” would look like to them. Bernando

Bannis said, “A world with justice is one where I don’t have to talk about what a world with justice looks like.”

The Lynn English High School ROTC raised the Juneteenth flag at 5:21 p.m. while Janey David powerfully sang The Black National Anthem — “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the University of Maryland.

CONNECTIONS

New program connects teens, younger kids

BY LEIGH BLANDER On Monday, Marblehead dad Mark Philip launched

a new childcare platform that connects teenagers in town with younger kids to provide childcare and

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mentorship in sports, STEM, arts and music.

It’s called MENTMII and Philip is offering a pilot program to Marblehead parents.

“We want to create a better childcare solution for parents, and we want to foster positive, in-person connections between youth,” Philip told the Current.

After working in advertising for years, Philip was motivated to create MENTMII during the pandemic, when he watched his then-6-yearold son become more and more isolated.

Later, his son attended a birthday party that included players from the Marblehead High School football team. The little kids really enjoyed connecting with the teen athletes.

“I thought to myself, ‘Why can’t we do this more often?’”

How it works Philip explained how MENTMII works.

“Mentors go on the site

COURTESY PHOTOS

The new childcare platform MENTMII aims to connect younger kids with local teens who have the same interests.

Marblehead dad Mark Philip has launched MENTMII, a new childcare platform piloting here in town.

and create a public profile.

They can choose from our four main categories: sports, STEM, arts and music. Then parents

can go onto the site — whether they’re looking for a short-term childcare solution or something that becomes more long-term.”

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All the mentors and kids will be from the same city or town. Philip says the teen mentors are vetted.

Parents pay the teen mentors directly $20 to $40 per hour. Parents also pay MENTMII a monthly fee. Right now, that cost is $4.99.

Marblehead mom-of-two Sarah Spencer has already signed up.

“I think this is one of the real missing links in childcare,” Spencer said.

“You’ve got Care.com and local sitters who post on Facebook. But there’s a missing link to connecting our teens who have strong skill sets with younger kids who want to learn those skill sets.”

Spencer’s son, who will start first grade at Brown this fall, loves soccer and lacrosse, so she’ll be looking for mentors with that experience.

“Most of the babysitters in town are female so being able to connect our boys with teen boys is nice,” she added.

Spencer’s daughter, entering third grade, may look for a mentor with experience in music.

“My daughter will be starting the music program at Village next year, so it would be cool for her to get a head start on the violin and learn to read music,” Spencer said.

To learn more, visit MENTMII.com.

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ABBOT HALL

Charter committee promises transparent process

BY WILL DOWD The newly appointed Marblehead Charter Review Committee held its inaugural meeting on June 13, marking the beginning of a historic journey to draft the town’s first official governing charter since its incorporation in 1649.

The 11-member committee, established by the Select Board in late April, is charged with studying Marblehead’s existing government structure, engaging with the community and ultimately presenting a recommended charter to codify the town’s governance principles.

Chair Amy Drinker opened the meeting by emphasizing the committee’s mission and the importance of transparency.

Marblehead has never adopted a formal charter, relying instead on a patchwork of local bylaws and state laws, which has led to ambiguities and inefficiencies in its governance.

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

The town’s new Charter Review Committee convened its first official meeting on June 13 in the Select Board room.

To support the process, the Select Board approved a $20,000 contract with the University of Massachusetts-Boston’s Collins Center for Public Management to provide professional consulting services.

Michael Ward, director of the Collins Center, has addressed the Select Board, highlighting

the significance of a welldesigned charter.

“A charter is really your constitution,” Ward said. “Think of it as the framework which lays out the key elements of your town government.”

The committee members, appointed through a competitive selection process, bring diverse

backgrounds and expertise to the table. Vice Chair Rossana Ferrante emphasized the need for the work.

“At the end of the day, that’s how we get to the best decisions and the best recommendation,” she said. “I really do feel we need to be productive, objective, gather information and be

respectful.”

Over the next several months, the committee plans to conduct thorough research, analyzing governance practices in comparable communities, facilitating focus groups and public forums and assessing citizen satisfaction through surveys and outreach.

Ron Grenier, another committee member, emphasized the need for extensive public engagement.

“We really need to extend ourselves on the transparency front [and] on the public hearing front,” he said. “if people don’t understand where you are in the process, what you’re looking at, and hearing us — it’s so much information — people get glassy-eyed.”

The Town Charter Committee meets on the second Thursday and fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St. and via Zoom.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

NEWS IN BRIEF

BY WILL DOWD The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to the news in brief. Send yours to wdowd@marbleheadnews.org.

Christi Staples honored as 2024 Commonwealth Heroine Marblehead resident Christi Staples, vice president of policy and government relations at the United Way of Massachusetts Bay, was honored as a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine at the State House on June 12.

The award, given annually by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, recognizes women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities.

Staples was nominated by state Sen. Brendan Crighton and Rep. Jennifer Armini for her over two decades of impactful work in policy, government relations and community engagement.

“Christi exemplifies tireless advocacy, embodying the spirit of a Commonwealth Heroine,” Armini and Crighton wrote in a statement. “Her passion, expertise and dedication make her a deserving nominee, symbolizing the heroes shaping the fabric of our communities.”

Staples has held roles at the Corporation for Supportive Housing, Partnership for Strong Communities and The Connecticut Multicultural Partnership. She holds a Master of Social Work in policy practice from the University of Connecticut and a Bachelor of Science in human development and family studies from Wheelock College.

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency that works to advance women and girls toward full equality in all areas of life.

911 dispatch supervisor honored Amy Gilliland, a 911 dispatch supervisor, received the Telecommunicator Leader of the Year Award at the Massachusetts Communications Supervisors Association Awards ceremony. Public safety officials praised Gilliland for her dedication and hard work.

Gilliland is also a member of the Telecommunicator Emergency Response Task Force (TERT), which received a Team Award.

Massachusetts opioid-related overdose deaths drop Preliminary data released by the state Department of Public

Marblehead Dispatcher Amy Gilliland smiles with her husband, Fire Chief Jason Gilliland and Police Chief Dennis King after she received the Telecommunicator of the Year Award at the Massachusetts Telecommunicator Awards

COURTESY PHOTOS

From left to right, Firefighter Aidan Gillis, Chief Jason Gilliland and Firefighter Luc Marcus. Gillis and Marcus, both Marblehead natives, have recently joined the Marblehead Fire Department.

for their fire academy start date.

Registration open for 2024 Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

From left: Sen. Brendan Crighton’s Chief of Staff Taylor Trenchard, Christi Staples of Marblehead and state Rep. Jenny Armini celebrating Staples’ recognition as a 2024 Commonwealth Heroine at the State House.

Health shows a 10% decrease in opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023, the largest singleyear decline in two decades.

There were 2,125 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2023, which is 232 fewer than in 2022. The opioid-related overdose death rate also decreased by 10% to 30.2 per 100,000 people compared to 33.5 in 2022.

Marblehead reported relatively few opioid-related overdose deaths between 2016 and 2023 compared to other Massachusetts communities, according to data from the state Department of Public Health.

In 2017, Marblehead recorded its highest number of opioid deaths with six confirmed cases. The town reported four deaths in 2016 and three in 2018.

No opioid-related overdose deaths were reported among Marblehead residents in 2019, 2022, and 2023 (preliminary data), while one death was recorded each in 2020 and 2021.

Despite the overall decrease, disparities persist among Black non-Hispanic residents and those living in rural areas. The

Healey-Driscoll administration has proposed investments of more than $700 million in the fiscal year 2025 budget for programs focused on substance addiction prevention, treatment and harm reduction.

‘Marblehead Boat Names’ book releases third edition The third edition of “Marblehead Boat Names” is now available at local retailers, including Marblehead Mercantile, Shubie’s, Saltwater Bookstore and F.L. Woods. The book features over 800 stories, along with photos and insights into Marblehead’s maritime history. It is also available on Amazon.

Marblehead Fire Department welcomes two new firefighters The Marblehead Fire Department welcomed two new firefighters, Aidan Gillis and Luc Marcus, both Marblehead natives. The new recruits will complete a two-week, in-house training program while waiting

Registration is now open for the 2024 Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk. The walk supports adult and pediatric patient care and cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Participants can choose from four distance options and will finish at the Boston Common.

The event has raised more than $176 million for Dana-Farber in its 35-year history.

To learn more, visit jimmyfundwalk.org

Have your say on the deceased whale The EPA issued an emergency permit for Marblehead to dispose of a humpback whale carcass that washed ashore on Preston Beach on April 25. The carcass was towed offshore but returned to Swampscott on May 14. It was buried on the beach on May 18 due to advanced degradation and lack of upland disposal options. The public is invited to comment on the EPA’s action by July 3. Questions or comments can be directed to Steven Wolf, USEPA Region 1 ocean disposal coordinator, at wolf.steven@epa.gov or 617-918-1617.

Donations sought for Fourth of July fireworks The annual Marblehead fireworks display will take place on the Fourth of July, with the Harbor Illumination starting at 9 p.m. and the main fireworks show beginning at 9:15 p.m.

The fireworks will be launched from a barge at the mouth of Marblehead Harbor, offering ideal viewing opportunities from Fort Sewall, Chandler Hovey Park and Crocker Park.

Sunset is at 8:25 p.m., and high tide is at 11:02 p.m. Boaters are advised to consider the rising tide when anchoring and to avoid the safety zone marked by orange buoys around the fireworks barge.

In case of severe weather, the rain date is planned for July 5. Updates will be available at marbleheadfireworks.org and on X @MHDFireworks.

“We have not yet raised sufficient funds and still need your support. If you have not yet given, please consider donating now,” wrote the committee’s chairman, Alexander Falk, in a press release. “You can send your donation via check payable to the Town of Marblehead, with ‘fireworks’ in the memo line, and mail it to Marblehead Town Hall, (188 Washington St.). This is a tax-deductible contribution.”

Water and Sewer rate setting The Board of Water and Sewer Commissioners’ annual hearing for water and sewer rates will occur on Tuesday, June 25, at 7 p.m. at the commission’s office at 100 Tower Way, Building #11.

Community Wellness Day

The Marblehead Counseling Center will host a Community Wellness Day on Saturday, June 22, 1-4 p.m. at Hobbs Playground, 57 Clifton Ave. The event will feature wellness and well-being vendors, cold treats and snacks, and various activities and amusements for kids. A temporary parking ban will be in effect for parts of Ware Lane and the MCC parking lot to facilitate the event. The public is welcome to attend and participate in the day’s activities.

MHS Class of 1984 announces 40th reunion The Marblehead High School Class of 1984 has announced its 40th reunion, scheduled for Saturday, July 27, from 4-10 p.m. at the Salem Waterfront Hotel. To stay informed, share memories and reconnect with classmates, graduates are encouraged to join the Facebook group @MarbleheadHighSchool Classof1984. Those interested in attending should RSVP by emailing Laurie Weil at Marbleheadhigh1984reunion@ gmail.com or sending a private message on Facebook.

Leigh Blander contributed to this report.

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CUZNER IN NATURE

The Milky Way’s galactic core

BY RICK CUZNER This photo captures the Milky Way Galaxy from Goldthwait Beach. The image reveals the galactic core of our galaxy, which is one of the brightest and most photogenic parts of the galaxy. The galactic core is located in the constellation Sagittarius and is best viewed during the summer months in the Northern Hemisphere.

The Marblehead Current is proud to partner with photographer Rick Cuzner. For the past 16 years, he has taken thousands of nature photographs.

The Milky Way arches over Goldthwait Beach in casting a serene glow across the pebbled shoreline.

COURTESY PHOTO / RICK CUZNER

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Softball Magicians look to bounce back from the Final Four heartbreaker next year. Page 10.

Sports WAIT ’TIL NEXT YEAR

From Softball Little League all-stars to MHS champs

BY JOE MCCONNELL It was an historical year for coach Johnny Gold’s Marblehead High School softball team that led them to the Northeastern Conference Lynch Division championship, before bringing home the Division 2 Final Four state trophy after winning 21

Tessa Francis

games, a new record for the program.

The team dedicated the season to its assistant coach Todd Norman, who passed away just hours before the first game of the season on April 8. They also had to play the season without one of their captains, Ila Bumagin, who tore her ACL in

a skiing accident. Coaches and players alike bonded together as a team to win for them.

The definition of the word team for the players also extended beyond the diamond, when they came out to support the softball program’s longtime assistant Mike Joyce at the Special Olympics recently.

Genevieve Rogers

Hailey Schmitt

Lyla McGovern

Kate (left) and Tessa Andriano

And Joyce did not disappoint them, winning two gold medals.

In their pursuit of their on-field championship achievements, the Magicians compiled those record-setting 21 wins. But they are certainly not unfamiliar with so much success. It all started for them in the Marblehead Softball Little

Eva Walton

League.

In 2019, as 10s, the Marblehead girls won the District 16 and EMass all-star regional championships to advance to the state tournament in Worcester, where they lost to Worcester’s Jesse Burkett Little League in SOFTBALL, P. A10

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Nora Mahan

Ruby Calienes

Ashley and Isabel Mortensen

Colleen Corrigan

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Keliann Salem

Luka Bornhorst

Sophia Hallisey

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SET SAIL

Mentuck Race set for July 19 Registration is underway for the Biennial Michael A. Mentuck Ocean Race sponsored by the Boston Yacht Club.

The race is named for the late “Mike” Mentuck, a past commodore of the BYC and major supporter of ocean racing, including the famed Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race.

The 75+ nautical mile race will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday

July 19 outside Marblehead Harbor and finish on July 20 at Provincetown.

For more information, bostonyc.org/racing.

The BYC says all of its races will operate as clean regattas executing to the greatest extent possible best practices defined

by Sailors for the Sea in its Clean Regattas program.

All competitors should plan to

promote and adopt a “leave no trace” approach before, during and after the event, both at sea and ashore.

All competitors and support personnel, including vendors, are asked to cooperate by reducing waste, avoiding use of single-use plastics (such as bottled water) and preventing toxins from entering marine habitats.

COURTESY PHOTO

RIDING FOR GOOD

30+ ’Headers will pedal toward record-breaking $75M fundraising goal in Pan-Mass Challenge

BY LEIGH BLANDER At least 32 Marblehead residents will join this summer’s Pan-Mass Challenge with the goal of raising a record $75 million for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. With this year’s ride on Aug. 3-4, the PMC will top $1 billion in fundraising for Dana-Farber.

“Thanks to the fierce determination of PMC riders, volunteers, donors and sponsors, I’m confident that this will be our biggest fundraising year yet,” said Billy Starr, founder and executive director of the PMC. “We’re well positioned to cross $1 billion in total donations for cancer research and treatment since I founded the PMC in 1980. I am looking forward to cycling alongside everyone on the road in August as we hit this momentous achievement together.”

The PMC donates 100% of every rider-raised dollar directly to Dana-Farber to support cancer research and patient

So far, 32 Marblehead residents have signed up for this summer’s Pan-Mass Challenge.

care, accounting for 62% of the Jimmy Fund’s annual revenue.

For more than four decades,

PMC funds have helped DanaFarber achieve lifesaving clinical breakthroughs and

COURTESY PHOTO

advancements. In the last five years alone, Dana-Farber doctors and researchers have

played a substantial role in developing more than half of all cancer drugs approved by the FDA. Cyclists come together from around the world to ride between 25 and 211 miles.

Registration for the ride is open through July 1. For more information, visit pmc.org/ ride.

The ‘Headers already ready to ride include: Ian Boldt, Gabrielle Coffman, Max Cushman, Tom Cushman, Stephen Garfield, Emma Garfield, Robert Goodall, Andrew Haggard, John Harrison, Moira James, William Kane, Mary Lavoie-Mayer, Catherine Malone, David Manganis, Jack Manganis, Louis Mayle, Caroline McCarthy, Angus McQuilken, Mark Meyer, Chris Morrissey, Howard Needel, Kristin O’NeilCallahan, Laurie Pulido, Robert Rieckelman, Neill Silva, Ralph Sweetland, Bob Tavares, Maya Tavares, Ellie Tomlinson, Kathleen Vander Laan, Marty Willis and Bill Willis.

DIAMOND STRONG

Softball Magicians look to bounce back from the Final Four heartbreaker next year

BY JOE MCCONNELL It was a season that will long be remembered by all those who support Marblehead High softball.

It was a team that made history in 2024 by compiling the most wins in a single season throughout the history of the program with 21, and that’s while dealing with adversity, even before playing a game.

The Magicians first lost their co-captain Ila Bumagin for the season, when she tore her ACL while skiing in March. Weeks later and just hours before the first game of the season against host Reading on April 8, they learned their assistant coach Todd Norman passed away suddenly. Instead of postponing the game, they wanted to play it for Todd. They told coach Johnny Gold that they were dedicating the season to Norman, and wanted to play the Reading game as scheduled. The Magicians won the game, 9-3, and it was just the beginning of a

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the state title game.

There was no softball in 2020, because of the pandemic, but it resumed in 2021, when these same Marblehead girls were 12s. They once again won the district and EMass titles to go back to the state tournament, which was held in Woburn that year. They ended up dominating

season nobody will ever forget.

“We had a purpose and a reason to play this year that will certainly carry over to next spring,” said Gold. “They are a special group of players. Besides dedicating the season to Todd, they went to cheer on my longtime assistant coach Mike Joyce at a Special Olympics event recently.

Their encouragement helped him win two gold medals. They treat him like a brother, and will do anything to support him.”

The Magicians lost just five times in three months, including the 3-2 extra innings (eight) heartbreaker to the Westfield Bombers (20-3, fourth seed) in a Division 2 state semifinal game at Worcester State University on June 11.

Sophomore pitcher Tessa Francis was matching her Westfield counterpart Shea Hurley strike for strike.

It was scoreless until the third, when junior all-star catcher Luka Bornhorst singled home Nora Mahan, who also singled to begin the frame.

But the Bombers tied up the proceedings right away in the home half of the third on an RBI single by Moja Premmy.

The Magicians had chances to score in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings, but to no avail.

But in the eighth, Hailey Schmitt ignited what should have been the game-winning rally with a two-out single. She immediately stole second and third, before coming home on a clutch single

by Tessa Andriano.

Things were looking good for the Magicians. They were just one strike away from advancing to the Division 2 state title game in Amherst. But it wasn’t meant to be. With a couple of Westfield runners on, the Bombers ended up winning the game with a tworun double.

Only one team can win a state championship, but that doesn’t diminish Marblehead’s grit and determination that turned a real-life loss into a breakthrough season for the program. With seven sophomores and a superior junior catcher returning

next spring to lead the team, there’s no doubt they should be back in contention for the ultimate prize in Division 2.

“I can’t wait until next year, and thanks to this year’s experiences we’ll be even better,” said Gold. “At the beginning of this season, I never thought we’d go this far. We were underdogs against Nashoba and Silver Lake, but we ended up beating both opponents on the road to make it to the state semifinals. These kids put Marblehead High softball back on the map.”

Gold added that he has a great pitcher (Tessa Francis), one of the best catchers in the state (Luka Bornhorst), solid third baseman (Tessa Andriano) and shortstop (Hailey Schmitt) and a speedy outfield (Nora Mahan in left, Ashley Mortensen in center and Isabel Mortensen in right) coming back to lead the way for another run at the state championship.

But he cautioned, “we have to be more consistent at the plate

to take advantage of our speed on the bases.”

Gold saw a sample of his team’s work ethic to improve on display the day after the bitter loss to Westfield. While attending a Softball Little League game at the Veterans School field, he witnessed Kate and Tessa Andriano in the batting cage swinging away to begin their offseason workouts for next year.

It’s that type of attitude that should hopefully propel them to the state championship in 2025.

But for one last time, the 2024 Northeastern Conference Lynch Division champs, who went on to bring home the Division 2 Final Four trophy, were led by six seniors – co-captains Ruby Calienes and Ila Bumagin, Clara Donovan, Anna Sokolov, Eva Walton and Colleen Corrigan – who provided the necessary veteran guidance to secure these two significant achievements, while providing the impetus to keep the success going well into the future.

East Bridgewater in the finals to become state champs for the first time.

The Marblehead stars then moved onto the Eastern Regional Tournament in Bristol, Conn. Because of COVID restrictions, this part of the tournament was modified. There was no pool play, and as a result Marblehead lost to Delaware, before being eliminated by New York in extra innings (nine), 8-7.

It was considered to be one of

the best games in many years, according to the Bristol officials.

In 2022, Marblehead was back at it again, this time as Little League juniors, but the script remained the same. They were once again district and EMass champs, before defending their state crown successfully in Woburn again, where they took care of Agawam easily in the finals, 10-0.

The Eastern Regional was held in Orange, Connecticut,

and Marblehead came out of pool play with a 1-2 record. But the Connecticut state champs then eliminated them in the quarterfinals.

Last year, Marblehead, now playing in the Senior Tournament, received an automatic invitation to the eastern regionals that were held in Worcester. The locals were 2-1 in pool play. They then defeated Connecticut in the quarterfinals, but lost to Delaware in the semifinals.

If history means anything, these softball Magicians always learned from their first-time experiences, and so next year just might be their year to compete for the Division 2 high school state title at UMassAmherst. They know the feeling of being state champs twice already, but winning one together as varsity players would cap off this story filled with memorable successful chapters quite nicely.

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FESTIVAL OF ARTS

Get ready to toast at the MFoA Champagne Reception

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

The Festival of Arts Champagne Reception at Fort Sewall is a highlight every summer.

BY LEIGH BLANDER Believe it or not, Marblehead’s favorite summer tradition, the Festival of Arts, is about to host its popular Champagne Reception at Fort Sewall on June 30, 5-7 p.m.

Enjoy tastings from local

BOOK A BRA FITTING TODAY! Visit Lizsteinfeld.com or call (781)631-1299

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

restaurants and caterers, sip champagne and dance to live music from the band True North. Tickets are $60 in advance, $70 at the door. marbleheadfestival.org.

Look for the Current’s eight-page Festival of Arts special section in our June 26 edition. You’ll find the

complete Festival schedule along with behind-thescenes stories about all the people who put on the event.

The Festival itself runs July 3-7. For more information, visit marbleheadfestival.org.

The Current is proud to be the Festival’s media sponsor.

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FOOD 101

Baking classic chocolate chip cookies

BY LINDA BASSETT This summer, defying 80th birthdays, the Rolling Stones are performing their classics from Boston to Atlanta, from Chicago to Denver.

Their decadesyounger backup musicians breathlessly try to keep up on “Satisfaction,” “Brown Sugar” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”

Seems the classics are up for a summer revival. Shakespeare in the Park. Bach and Beethoven alfresco. “Casablanca” and “Rear Window” under the stars. Chrome-embellished convertibles parading at festivals.

Classics also prevail on summer tables — potato salad, slaws, hot dogs and burgers on the grill. With weather too steamy to fire up an oven long enough to bake a cake, I venture a shorter burst of oven heat in the cool of the morning or on a rainy day. I make cookies in huge batches to freeze for a sunny day.

Always the classics: oatmealraisin and chocolate chip.

That latter was born during the Great Depression at the Toll House in Whitman, Massachusetts. Part fact, part fiction, cook Ruth Wakefield ran out of chocolate that day. She broke up a chocolate bar hoping it would melt into the dough for the tiny cookies that enhanced a scoop of ice cream.

Ah, the stuff of legends! A responsible kitchen professional does not run out of product.

More likely, Wakefield created the cookie after a few trial runs, until she got what she wanted.

It took the country by storm.

Originally called a “chocolate crunch,” then “Toll House” cookie, the recipe was widely requested and printed in newspapers. And, in response to the demand, the candy company, Nestlé, came up with a new convenience product complete with a recipe on the package.

But there’s always more. In the 1980s era of “supersizing,” bakers blew up the cookies’ size, giving them new life at trendy venues where customers bought one or two of the bigger, improved version instead of by

Current food columnist, Linda Bassett, writes about baking the perfect classic chocolate chip cookie.

the pound. And when “mix-ins” invaded the ice cream parlor, the cookie batter acquired mix-ins, too — chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, dried cherries, marshmallows – most recently, becoming an add-in itself, e.g. cookie dough ice cream. The various “bits” work in the recipes printed here.

I like to bake and refrigerate the cookies until quite firm.

Then I sandwich them around softened vanilla ice cream.

(Chocolate, salted caramel or any ice cream of choice, work too.) While the ice cream is still soft, I roll the edges in chocolate sprinkles, birthday cake sprinkles, chopped walnuts or raisins. I’ve seen them rolled in tiny “red hot” hearts for a spicier edging. I wrap the cookie sandwiches in plastic wrap to stockpile in the freezer until there’s an occasion or a steamy weekend to enjoy. They never last long.

CLASSIC CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Makes 60 to 80 cookies,

depending on size of ice cream scoop. ` 2 sticks butter, at room temperature ` 1 cup brown sugar ` ¼ cup granulated white sugar ` 2 eggs ` 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract ` 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour ` 1 teaspoon baking soda ` 1 teaspoon salt ` 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips » Preheat the oven to 330

degrees. Grease a sheet pan (cookie sheet). — Cream butter and sugars together until fluffy. Blend in eggs and vanilla. — Separately sift in the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt).

Fold chocolate chips into the batter, allowing them to distribute themselves evenly. » Using a small ice cream scoop, scoop and drop the batter onto the prepared sheet pan. » Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, taking them out of the oven while they are still slightly soft. Cool, 5 minutes. Using a spatula, transfer the cookies

to a wire rack to finish cooling.

CLASSIC OATMEALRAISIN COOKIES Makes 40 to 45 cookies, 2½ inches across Also an American classic cookie, you can treat this oatmeal treat as you would a chocolate chip cookie. Even adding chocolate chips! ` 1½ cups raisins ` 2 cups all-purpose white flour ` ½ teaspoon baking soda ` ¼ teaspoon salt ` 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature ` 1 cup packed light brown sugar ` ½ cup white granulated sugar ` 1 large egg, plus 1 large egg yolk ` 1½ tablespoons corn syrup ` 1½ teaspoons real vanilla extract ` 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats » Preheat the oven to 325

degrees. Grease (or spray coat) several baking sheets. » Combine raisins and enough hot water to cover in a bowl.

Set aside. » Use a separate medium bowl to stir together dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt).

CURRENT PHOTO / LINDA BASSETT

» In a large bowl, beat

together butter, both sugars until light and smooth, about a minute. Add egg and egg yolk, corn syrup, and vanilla. Beat until blended and fluffy. » Combine the wet and dry mixtures. » Drain raisins and dry for a few minutes on paper towels. Add them and the oatmeal to the dough, stirring until all are evenly incorporated. » Drop heaping teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets allowing a 2-inch space between them. » Bake one sheet at a time in the center rack of the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The edges will be lightly browned and nearly firm. Reverse the sheet in the oven halfway through the baking so that they cook evenly. » Place the cookie sheet on a wire rack for about 2 minutes so that cookies firm up. Transfer each cookie to another wire rack with a spatula. Leave until completely cooled.

ARTS

MHS grads take stage with senior project performances

BY BENJI BOYD

COURTESY PHOTO / XHAZZIE KINDLE

Jacob Piascik addresses the audience at “Chad Gadya” in the ballroom of the King Hooper Mansion.

The performers in “Tuesday Afternoon Dead” take a bow at the end of the show.

COURTESY PHOTO /LAUREN FOGLE

New Marblehead High School graduates, and several current students, took to the stage for two original performances on June 7 and 8.

Graduates Jacob Piascik, Ian Ryu and Bella Takata spent their MHS senior projects this spring writing, directing and performing their own productions.

Piascik and Ryu composed an original piece “Chad Gadya,” and performed it at the King Hooper Mansion as guests of the Marblehead Arts Association.

The evening began when Piascik addressed the audience to explain the piece’s significance. “Chad Gadya,” named for a traditional Passover song, follows the stories of influential figures and events in Jewish history.

Kicking off with a solo performance by senior Ila Bumagin, the piece went on to feature four string musicians and a 12- person chorus.

The movements alternated between joyful, melancholy and intense, with one piece even

ending in an agonized scream.

After roughly 15 minutes of music, the performers received a standing ovation.

The following day, many of the same performers headed to the high school to participate in the second performance of the weekend. “Tuesday Afternoon Dead,” a “Saturday Night Live” spoof written and directed by Bella Takata, ironically took place on Saturday night at the MHS auditorium.

The show, which featured eight comedy sketches, a host monologue from Takata and two numbers from the musical guest, Baked Ostrich (Piascik and Brady Weed), ran for 90 minutes and raised more than $2,000 for the Marblehead performing arts department.

The themes of the show reflected Takata’s wishes to support the arts, and she is happy with how it turned out.

“It was definitely a rocky start, but absolutely worth it,” she shared with the Current.

“The audience’s energy was great and felt so supportive. I’m so glad the community pulled together for this awesome show.”

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PETS

Paw-tecting our pups: Keeping dogs safe in summer

BY LIA GORBACH As another Marblehead summer arrives, dog owners must navigate the challenges of keeping their furry friends safe and comfortable in the heat.

Local dog owners and experts shared their concerns and tips for ensuring a happy and healthy summer for Marblehead’s beloved canine residents.

According to Marblehead’s town bylaws (Article 13, Section 10), dogs are prohibited from public beaches, athletic areas, playgrounds and parks between May 1 and Oct. 1. However, they are still welcome, on leash, at designated locations like Chandler Hovey Park, Crocker Park, Fort Sewall, Fountain Park, Upper Seaside Park, Riverhead Beach, and the town dog park on Lime Street.

One major concern during summer walks is the temperature of the pavement.

Asphalt can reach a scorching 125 degrees when the air temperature is just 77 degrees, potentially burning a dog’s paws within seconds, according to the Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Marblehead residents Megan and Sue Waters own an Australian shepherd named Brie.

“I worry about her paws on the pavement because puppies’ feet get hot and it’s not something we think about because we have shoes on,” Megan said.

If the pavement is too hot for a proper walk, Pawsitively Marblehead owner Erin McCarthy recommends supplementing a lack of physical stimulation with mental stimulation. She suggests giving dogs treat toys and puzzles to keep them engaged.

Aside from the pavement, dogs

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Australian shepherd Brie and Portuguese water dog Johnny enjoy each other’s company outside. Brie and Johnny have lived in Marblehead their whole lives and are avid swimmers and Causeway-walkers.

can get heat stroke if left in a hot car with inadequate ventilation or outside without access to shade or water, according to Atlantic Veterinary Hospital.

Since dogs cannot sweat, only pant, they’re unable to regulate their body temperature as well as humans can.

If your dog is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke, or hyperthermia, take them to the vet immediately.

Symptoms include elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, abnormal gum color and appearing lethargic or disoriented. If you can’t get to the vet right away, pour cool water over the dog’s head, stomach, armpits and feet and make sure your pup is exposed to a continuous airflow.

“We put the sprinklers on for

COURTESY PHOTO / MEGAN WATERS

How can you tell when the pavement is too hot for your pup?

her and bring her swimming when we can. We also encourage her to stay in the shade when she’s on the porch and keep her water bowl outside,” Megan said of Brie when outdoor temperatures are hot.

Another issue to look out for in the summer concerns dog anxiety. Fireworks on the Fourth of July and throughout the summer, paired with thunderstorms and nightly harbor cannons, can cause immense distress for dogs.

McCarthy recommends trying out CBD for dogs, especially around the Fourth of July.

“A huge concern with the fireworks is dogs running away,” McCarthy told the Current.

Pawsitively Marblehead carries CBD for dogs. Available in oil form, peanut butter and dog treats, CBD can help keep pups calm during these stressful situations.

Regardless of the measures owners can take to keep their dogs safe in the summer, the question remains: Should more public spaces be open to pups year-round?

“I get upset walking the dog on the hot pavement, but most parks and beaches are closed to puppies in the summertime. Sidewalks can be hazardous and are no longer on some side streets or areas of town,” Sue told the Current.

“Meanwhile, there’s trash that people leave everywhere, which is just as harmful to the environment. I find myself picking up that along with my dog’s waste.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the University of Maryland.

TEEN AUTHOR

MHS sophomore finishes, prints his first book

BY LIA GORBACH Inside Starbucks on a recent sunny afternoon, a Marblehead High School student talked excitedly about finishing his new book.

John Curtis, 17, just wrapped up his sophomore year. His English teacher Connor Ryan assigned students what’s called an “area-of-inquiry” project.

Some students learn how to cook. Others volunteer at My Brother’s Table. Curtis decided to write a novella.

Wearing a red hoodie and prepared with a copy of his freshly printed book, Curtis shared his writing process and muses for “The Man With the Blue Tie,” a 75-page collection of three short stories.

After identifying an idea to work with, Curtis crafted a story outline, focusing on the development of his characters.

He draws inspiration from his favorite books, video games and TV shows.

Set in a science fiction landscape, “The Man With the Blue Tie” follows Kelly Porter,

CURRENT PHOTO / LIA GORBACH

John Curtis, 17, holds a copy of his new book in the Marblehead Starbucks on May 29. Curtis’ book is a collection of three short stories he wrote as part of a school project.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. ES24P1590EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Nancy Titus Person Also Know As: Nancy T. Person aka Nancy Person Date of Death: April 2, 2024 Essex Division To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Petitioner Charles R. Capillo, Jr. of Marblehead MA a Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Charles R. Capillo, Jr. of Marblehead MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

The estate is being administered under informal procedure by the Personal Representative under the Massachusetts Uniform Probate Code without supervision by the Court. Inventory and accounts are not required to be filed with the Court, but interested parties are entitled to notice regarding the administration from the Personal Representative and can petition the Court in any matter relating to the estate, including distribution of assets and expenses of administration. Interested parties are entitled to petition the Court to institute formal proceedings and to obtain orders terminating or restricting the powers of Personal Representatives appointed under informal procedure. A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

Legal Notice

a young girl with dyslexia, inspired by the book “Fish in a Tree;” police officer Patrick Cunningham, based on a character in Curtis’ favorite video game, L.A. Noire; and criminal Timothy Jones, born from Curtis’ long-standing desire to write a prison story since he enjoys watching crime shows.

“Sometimes in life there’s a good decision and there’s a wrong decision, and there’s also a morally right decision and a wrong decision, and I wanted this story to prove that,” Curtis told the Current. “There’s a core value and a takeaway from all my stories.”

Throughout the writing journey, which spanned from February to mid-May, Curtis enlisted help from his family.

His mother, Lisa McKenna, designed the cover of the book.

His father, Rich Curtis, is an author himself, having written the five-book science fiction thriller series “The Tapestry Cycle.” Plenty of feedback was provided to Curtis by them both.

Site Plan Approval Public Hearing Marblehead Planning Board

The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the application of Maxwell and Yulia Solomon for a site plan approval special permit for the construction of an addition and garage to an existing single-family structure and the construction of a new garage as an accessory structure located at 80 Naugus Avenue within a Shoreline Single Residence District. This public hearing will be held under Section 200 -37 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw on Tuesday July 9, 2024 at 7:00 pm remotely on zoom Pursuant to Governor Baker’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, as amended, the public can attend this meeting via the remote participation platform Zoom, through any one of the following ways: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89685384334?pw d=WhhEgtPdlrECGP6RrbwsBS5wrSMYl9.1 or dial in +1 309 205 3325 Meeting ID: 896 8538 4334 Passcode: 844105 project materials available for download at Town of Marblehead website planning board page https://www.marblehead.org/planning-board under the date of meeting.

Interested persons may attend and participate at the meeting or submit comment in writing electronically and send to engineers@marblehead.org and the comments will be read aloud and entered into the record.

Robert Schaeffner Chairman

“It was originally a murder mystery story,” Curtis said. “Five days before I finished it, my mom was like ‘Maybe that’s not the best idea,’ so I had to change the entire thing. There was a lot of rewriting.”

But this rewriting paid off.

Curtis printed the final project and plans to hand it out to family and friends. He may even sell some copies.

Outside of writing, Curtis is a member of the MHS a cappella choir, Jewel Tones.

He enjoys hanging out with his dog, Banjo, and reading his favorite book, “The Great Gatsby.”

In the future, Curtis wants to go to Endicott College and become an English teacher. He hopes to one day work at MHS. He’d also like to write a romance novel.

“It’s a topic that I haven’t done before,” Curtis told the Current.

Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the Universi ty of Maryland.

SITE PLAN APPROVAL PUBLIC HEARING MARBLEHEAD PLANNING BOARD The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the application of Mark and Kristin Fazio for a site plan approval special permit for the construction of a 2-bay garage with attic storage a vacant lot located at 5 Eustis Road within a Shoreline Expanded Single Residence District. This public hearing will be held under Section 200-37 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw on Tuesday July 9, 2024 at 7:00 pm remotely on zoom Pursuant to Governor Baker’s Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c. 30A, §18, as amended, the public can attend this meeting via the remote participation platform Zoom, through any one of the following ways: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89685384334?pwd=WhhEgtPdlrECGP6RrbwsBS5wrSMYl9.1 or dial in +1 309 205 3325 Meeting ID: 896 8538 4334 Passcode: 844105 project materials available for download at Town of Marblehead website planning board page https://www.marblehead.org/planning-board under the date of meeting. Interested persons may attend and participate at the meeting or submit comment in writing electronically and send to engineers@marblehead.org the comments will be read aloud and entered into the record.

Robert Schaeffner Chairman

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CURRENT EVENTS

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

—Leigh Blander

Bags, Beer & BBQ Tournament Saturday, June 22, 2-6 p.m.

The Bags, Beer and BBQ Tournament returns to the Lee Mansion Gardens.

Teams will compete in a March Madness-style tourney for the title of top bags player in town. Registration is $85 for each player. Players will receive three tickets good for food or beer, as well as a free Bags Tournament towel. Tickets are $25 for spectators. Spectators will receive two tickets good for food or beer.

This event will feature beer from Bentwater Brewing Company and hot dogs and hamburgers fresh off the barbeque. More info at marbleheadmuseum.org.

‘Something Rotten!’ at MLT Friday, June 21-Sunday, June 30

Check out the outrageous, crowd-pleasing musical farce “Something Rotten” at Marblehead Little Theatre. The show received several Best Musical nominations and was hailed by Time Out New York as “the funniest musical comedy in at least 400 years.”

Get your tickets at mltlive.org.

Community Wellness Day

Learn about gender allyship June 26, 6-8 p.m.

Join Abbot Public Library and a panel of LGBTQIA+ community members to learn about being a good ally to trans, nonbinary and gender-nonconforming people in your life. Representatives from local LGBTQIA+ organizations will deliver a brief presentation introducing terminology and basic concepts of gender and transition, followed by a Q&A opportunity with the panel. Panelists include representatives from Creative Spirit, the North Shore Alliance of LGBTQ+ Youth, North Shore LGBTQ+ Network and North Shore Pride. The event will be held on Zoom. Info at abbotlibrary.org.

Open healing garden & intuitive card readings

Saturday, June 22, 1-4 p.m.

Marblehead Counseling Center will host its first Community Wellness Day, with free activities for the whole family.

Come chat with local wellness and wellbeing vendors, too. Hobbs Playground, 57 Clifton Ave.

June 22, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Experience the healing energy and beauty of Ellen Epstein’s Sculpture and Sensation Garden, and receive an intuitive tarot and oracle card reading from Peyton Pugmire, spiritual intuitive. Meet Epstein and peruse her one-of-a-kind glass sculptures and crystal glass suncatchers which are for sale. Linger in the healing garden to toss coins in the fountain, play with bubbles, meditate, draw and color, and more. 122 B Green St. Register at creativespiritma.org.

The Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites is the perfect place for locals, friends, and family to stay for special occasions, or just get away.

Step into our newly renovated hotel rooms where coastal elegance meets opulent comfort.

Adorned with timless details, every corner whispers tales of maritime adventures. Luxurious amenities beckon, ensuring a serene sanctuary for your coastal retreat.

Sea the Change with a Virtual Tour at

salemwaterfronthotel.com.

225 Derby St. Salem, MA 01970

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

Book Your Stay: 1.978.740.8788

Summer exhibits opening reception

Sunday, June 23, 2-4 p.m.

Join the Marblehead Arts Association for the opening reception of its annual Summer Member Show.

Meet the artists and mingle with old friends and new. 8 Hooper St.

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OBITUARY

Lois Bowers Came, 97 Lois Bowers Came passed away peacefully on June 6, at the age of 97.

The daughter of Mary Potter Bowers and Nelson Bowers of Arlington, Lois was born in 1927 and attended Arlington High School. She graduated from Colby College, Class of 1948, an English and art history major and member of Chi Omega sorority. A competitive athlete, her love of tennis began with lessons at Longwood Cricket Club from Hazel Whiteman. She was a tennis camp counselor in New Hampshire and a member of Colby’s tennis team, where

she won the Colby Cup. A lifetime learner, Lois attended graduate school at the University of California at Berkeley, where she fell in love with the “City by the Bay.” Lois met and married Cliff Came Jr., Colby Class of ‘42, in 1951 following his return

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS Buyer(s)

from the Navy after World War II. She raised a daughter and son, following her husband’s advertising career from New York City to Chicago to Simsbury, Connecticut.

Memories of wonderful childhood summers spent at Good Harbor Beach brought her back to the North Shore in the 1980s, where she spent her later years in Rockport and Marblehead.

She was heavily involved with the local arts community. She and her zany, artsy friends, “The Golden Girls,” had many wonderful adventures. You could find them at the Rudder singing and dancing, drink in hand, with top hats, canes and boas joined

by Evie, the salty proprietor.

One memorable summer, Lois

ran a successful art gallery on Cape Cod. A woman of many talents, she became a librarian in Arlington and at the National Marine Fisheries in Gloucester.

At age 64, she studied for her master’s in library science at Simmons College.

To her beloved family, Lois was Peter Pan, in her pure delight of discovering sand dollars on the beach, jumping in the waves or finding a four-leaf clover.

She’d often remark, “We’re so lucky.” An avid golfer, she played her last round at 96 years old. And she was such fun. She loved to travel and had a special fondness for southern Europe.

But her greatest joy was being “Grammy” to her three beloved grandchildren, Jack, Caitie and Georgia. She celebrated every

triumph and was the happiest and proudest of grandparents.

Lois was predeceased by her husband, Clifford Came Jr. She is survived by her brother, Robert Bowers of Fayetteville, Arkansas; her children, Clifford F. Came III of Stamford, Connecticut and Pamela Came Barker of Marblehead; her daughter-inlaw, Marybeth Succi Came; and her son-in-law, Edmund Barker.

The family extends its grateful appreciation to everyone who has been so loving and caring to Lois over the years — family and friends, the Marblehead Senior Center, Seaglass Village, her caregivers and the staff of Prospect House and Kaplan Hospice.

A celebration of life will be announced later in the summer.

Seller(s)

Address

Date

Price

David P. and Lauren S. Kennedy

3 Goldthwait Road

May 31

$4,200,000

William C. Beardslee Jr. T and William C. Beardslee Jr.Paula T. Gold 2000 RET and Paula T. Gold

18 Devereux St.

May 31

$1,300,000

Thomas W. Thompson 2016 T and Thomas W. Thompson

Carol Costello

38 Carlton Road

May 31

$740,000

Winston NT and David M. Garman

105 Beacon St.

May 30

$1,630,000

Michel A. Appellis and Roxanne Fleszar

80 Humphrey St.

May 30

$1,300,000

Walden Prop Solutions LLC

109 Foster Road

May 28

$951,000

Elizabeth R. and Daniel J. Gackowski

152 Walker Road

May 31

$730,000

Marblehead Thomas G. and Meghan H. Ragno

Heather R. and Joshua H. Gatchell Swampscott Boriana Milenova James L. and Suzanne C. Connors Jessica and Marisa P. Penta

CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER Raffle tickets were sold to raise money for the Todd Norman scholarship.

The Gus Percy Band played at the VFW’s benefit for the Todd Norman scholarship.

COMMUNITY

Benefit for Norman scholarship a success

BY LEIGH BLANDER

VFW Commander Ronald Knight welcomed people to the benefit for the Todd Norman scholarship.

People packed the VFW on West Shore Drive Saturday night, rocking out to the Gus Percy Band and raising $5,000 for a new Marblehead High School scholarship honoring Todd Norman..

Norman, beloved coach and local business owner, died suddenly this spring. The scholarship in his name will be awarded to a senior athlete graduating from MHS.

The VFW on West Shore Drive was packed for Todd Norman scholarship benefit.

“Todd’s love for Marblehead and its athletics will always have a special place in his family’s memory,” the scholarship’s mission statement reads.

“Todd was larger than life and a true leader,” said VFW Commander Ronald Knight. “We are honored to host this event in Todd’s memory and to benefit the scholarship fund to preserve Todd’s legacy as an inspirer of extraordinary student athletes in Marblehead.”

Knight welcomed people as they entered the VFW and dropped donations into a

large bucket. He said the support has been heartwarming.

“I’ve had people leave checks in my mailbox,” Knight told the Current. “A friend of mine was walking his dog today and had someone give him money,” for the scholarship.

Donations can be sent to the Todd Norman Memorial Scholarship, c/o National Grand Bank, 91 Pleasant St., Marblehead, MA 01945.

Kris Olson contributed reporting.

CP_MBHC_20240619_1_A16

marbleheadcurrent.org

A16 Wednesday, June 19, 2024 Marblehead Current

MARBLEHEAD WEEKEND

Summer snapshots

Marblehead High School photographer Grey Collins captured images of a summery weekend around town.

Garret Callahan and his daughter Catherine enjoy the water at Devereux Beach.

ABOVE: Ella Reck and Robby Ratajczak enjoy a picnic at Chandler Hovey Park.

RIGHT: Violet Bronnenberg is surprised by a wave at Devereux Beach.

Griffen Collins plays a little beach frisbee.

The Gallo brothers feed the ducks at Redd’s Pond.

July 4th & 5th Abbot Hall Artisans Marketplace

Harbor Rides Marblehead Harbor Jordan’s Launch offers Harbor Rides through Marblehead Harbor during our regular hours of operation, no reservations needed.

Come on board our boat, FINN, for a 20-25 minute scenic cruise around the harbor. Our Harbor Rides run out of the State Street Landing in Marblehead, next to the Landing Restaurant. The cost is $10 per person, and we accept cash or card at the time of the ride. Harbor Rides run on an on-demand basis.

If you trouble locating the boat or operator, call us at 781-631-5992 We have life jackets available to borrow for children under 12 yrs

We, the Board of Directors of the Marblehead Current, are true believers in our non-profit mission, in our reporting and in our product.

We give our time, our energy and our expertise to make this incredible effort successful.

To say we love the Current is an understatement.

If you, too, love the Current, join us by giving to the Board Match Challenge.

For this final week of our Spring Fundraiser, we will match every dollar donated, up to $3,000 Keep the Current coming! marbleheadcurrent.org/donate/

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW