06.14.23 - Volume 1, Issue 29

Town to decide override Tuesday

Months of contentious debate come down to June 20 vote

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Marblehead has not voted to raise its property taxes beyond a state-mandated cap of 2.5% annually in nearly two decades, and the $2.5 million override on the June 20 ballot is dividing

neighbors.

Last month, a group of citizens formed the “Vote Yes for Marblehead” Committee to promote the override.

“As residents, taxpayers and parents, we simply could not stand by silently while critical

public safety and education services are at risk of being drastically reduced,” override supporters wrote.

In June, residents formed “The Six Percent is Too Much Committee” with the slogan “$2.5 million forever is too much with no strategic plan.”

The override opponents say the town has overspent and mismanaged taxpayers’ money.

GOOD AS ‘GOLD’

“The taxpayers we represent also face rising costs, and many have not received a raise in years; some have taken paycuts, been forced to change industries or retired early to care for a dependent,” Sue MacInnis, the committee’s treasurer and chairwoman, told the Marblehead Current. “They must live within their budgets; we expect town leaders to work

Diplomas conferred on Class of 2023 as town bids farewell to principal

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Sometimes, it’s for the best.

Class President Lucy Sabin “broke up” with Marblehead High School before a sea of hundreds of families, teachers and friends in the school’s field house during commencement exercises on Friday evening.

“I’ve had these feelings for a while now, and I think it’s time I tell you, dear Marblehead High School: It’s not

me; it’s you. Wait, no. It’s not you; it’s me,” said Sabin to laughter. “The time we had together will always be special to me when we’ve both grown so much from this relationship, but we must move on.”

Pretending to speak to the high school, she told it to consult her “exes,” the Marblehead Community Charter Public School and Glover School, if it was “upset.”

“Parting is such sweet sorrow, but

let us not make this a tragedy,” she said.

They had been only staying in the relationship “for the kids,” she said. “You’re a little all over the place — 14 different schedules. Baby, how am I supposed to keep up?” she said. “The bell has rung for the last time, and we have to say goodbye. I thought I’d never date a high school, and then I met you.”

In the valedictory address, Yasen Kadiyski Colón said graduates are entering a rapidly changing world in which artificial intelligence is taking

hard and wisely spend only the hard-earned dollars we give them.”

The structural deficit

The general override aims to address a structural deficit in the fiscal year 2024 municipal budget. Raising the additional property taxes would cover town services cut from the $112.5

SCHOOL COMMITTee

Buckey contract eyed for June 15 agenda

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Just days before the June 20 election when Marblehead voters will decide whether to raise their taxes to fund the schools and other town departments — and choose two School Committee members — the School Committee was expected to discuss Superintendent John Buckey’s contract on June 15.

School Committee Chair Sarah Fox told the Marblehead Current that she planned to add Buckey’s contract to the agenda for June 15, which is the School Committee’s last meeting before the election and a new committee is seated.

“There was a request made by [Committee member] Sarah Gold to have Dr. Buckey’s contract added to the agenda for next Thursday’s meeting,” Fox said. “In the spirit of transparency, since this is such an important item, I want to make sure everybody is aware that this request is made, and it will be on the agenda.”

School Committee Vice Chair Tom

Rabbi Meyer steps down with memories and optimism

BY LEIGH BLANDER

One of the longest-serving faith leaders in Marblehead history, Rabbi David J. Meyer is retiring from Temple Emanu-El this month after serving there for 31 years. His advice to his successor?

“Continue building on the strength of this inclusive, joyful community and have the courage to try new approaches,” Meyer said. “And make sure you look at the ocean every day.” Meyer, 65, arrived in Marblehead in July of 1992, a fresh-faced rabbi who grew up in a suburb outside Kansas City. He and his wife, Marla, settled in Marblehead and raised two sons. They plan to stay in town.

Looking back at highlights over his long career here, Meyer doesn’t hesitate to list his first one.

“When the Red Sox won the World Series in 2004, the team sent the trophy to every town in Massachusetts. Temple Emanu-El was the Marblehead site.”

When asked how the temple was chosen, he answered with a laugh, “We had connections.” Meyer is a big baseball fan who wrote and read essays for the NPR program, “Only a Game.”

Other highlights include leading two interfaith trips to Israel with now-retired Rev. Dennis Calhoun at Old North

FRESH

See what’s coming to the Farmers’ Market

Shoppers at the Marblehead Farmers’ Market on Saturday, June 17, can expect to find spring crops including lettuce, spinach, garlic scapes, mushrooms, strawberries, kale, peas, carrots, broccoli and a variety of salad and cooking greens. Farmers will also have plants, cut flowers, eggs, pork, honey and more.

Farms featured this week are Anything Grows, Middle Earth Farm, Grant Family Farm, Bear Hill Farm, Clark Farm and Nick Cloutman with mushrooms. The food vendors will be A&J King Artisan Bakers and Bucovina Cuisines with Ukrainian food. Seafood Express and Olive World will be there. Boy Scouts Troop 79 will sell coffee, tea, hot chocolate, lemonade and water. Craft vendors will be Jenna Diorio with jewelry and Angela Cook with ceramics. Copper Dog Books will be there, too.

The Marblehead Farmers’

Market takes place from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through November 19 behind the Marblehead Veterans’ Middle School (accessed via Vine Street), rain or shine. SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items. HIP (Healthy Incentives Program) benefits may be used at Grant Family Farm. For more information, visit marbleheadfm.com or email Steve at stevefowlermfm@gmail. com.

Ed Bell

The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to News in Brief. Send yours to info@marbleheadnews.org.

Road resurfacing underway

Marblehead’s Department of Public Works planned to begin road resurfacing on June 13, weather permitting. The project will include milling and raising structures on Elm Street (between Spring Street and Mugford Street), Elm Place, Story Terrace, Watson Street and Rockaway Street.

On-street parking will be restricted during project work hours and residents are advised to find legal parking elsewhere. Travel is at your own risk while the work is in progress and raised structures should be avoided when traveling. For more information or questions, contact the Department of Public Works at 781-631-1750 or highway@ marblehead.org. Paving dates will be posted on the town’s website when scheduled.

Turn your garden into a healthy habitat

Join the Arrangers of Marblehead on June 21 at 12:30 p.m. at Abbot Public Library, 3 Brook Rd. for a gathering of gardeners discussing what sustainable gardening is all about. The Arrangers have invited Rebecca LeBlanc (founder, LCA Resource - a local sustainability and ESG strategy firm - https:// www.lcaresource.com/) to discuss sustainability in the context of gardening and landscaping. LCA Resource is an environmental, social, and governance (ESG) consulting firm specializing in carbon footprinting, climate change risk assessment, and life cycle assessments. In this workshop, Rebecca will apply her background in systems thinking and evaluating environmental impacts to guide you through creating your own greener garden. Light Refreshments will be served.

Town volunteer opportunities

The town of Marblehead seeks individuals interested in volunteer opportunities on appointed town boards, commissions and committees. Several vacancies

are available for community members looking to contribute their skills and expertise. To apply, individuals are encouraged to submit a letter of interest and a resume to the Select Board.

The application can be submitted in person at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St., or via email to wileyk@marblehead.org. Please contact the Select Board’s Office at 781-631-0000 for additional information and inquiries.

The available vacancies include:

Affordable Housing Trust Fund: one vacancy for one year Marblehead Disabilities Commission: one vacancy for a term of three years.

This is an opportunity for residents to shape the town’s initiatives and contribute to its progress. The town encourages Interested individuals to apply.

Volunteer with SPUR

Volunteering with SPUR aims to produce opportunities for individuals of all ages, abilities and schedules to make a difference in their community. Whether one is looking to volunteer as an individual, with their family or as part of a group, SPUR offers various options to suit volunteers’ preferences. To learn more, visit: spurnorthshore.org/volunteer.

Two volunteer opportunities are:

» Join Community Roots Gardens, a project by SPUR, in their mission to grow fresh, organic produce for local food pantries and community programs fighting food insecurity. With over 1,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables provided annually, the gardens at St. Andrew’s Church and Temple Sinai play a crucial role in supporting food pantries and organizations dedicated to fighting hunger. Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the growing season, welcoming individuals of all skill levels to help with planting, weeding, watering, harvesting and delivery. To get involved, visit bit.ly/3TNI24n, » SPUR seeks volunteers for the Making and Serving Meals program. This initiative provides hot, nutritious meals to individuals facing food insecurity at local shelters.

By preparing 10 servings of a provided recipe at their own convenience, volunteers make a direct impact on the lives of those in need. The meals are served at shelters in Salem and Lynn. To get involved and learn more about volunteering for Making and Serving Meals, visit bit.ly/3MDUUqD.

Stramski Sailing Program

The Stramski Sailing Program, offered by the Marblehead Recreation and Parks Department, provides participants with the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing. No prior sailing experience is required.

The program curriculum includes both on-land and on-the-water coaching, focusing on water safety and fundamental sailing techniques. Participants will engage in a variety of activities, such as pirate day, sailing races and on-land games. There are different session options available:

Morning session: Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Afternoon session: Monday through Thursday, from 12:15 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Full-day Session: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (participants can bring their lunch and stay for the whole day).

Prior to participation, all new participants must pass a swim check. The swim check can be taken at the beginning of the first day, or participants can provide documentation of their swimming abilities, including swimming 100 yards, floating for three minutes and treading water for three minutes. Accepted document includes a YMCA swim certificate, Red Cross swim certificate, BSA-GSA Swim Merit Badge or equivalents approved by the Marblehead Recreation and Parks Department.

Go Green Now! program

Marblehead Municipal Light Department (MMLD) offers the “Go Green Now!” program, allowing customers to support sustainability by opting for 100% carbon-free energy sources.

By selecting the “Go Green Now!” rate, customers can purchase a monthly incremental amount, reflecting their commitment to environmentallyfriendly energy. Opt-out

flexibility is always available. To learn more about the program, rates and enrollment, visit bit.ly/3OCtMe3. For inquiries and enrollment, contact MMLD customer service or visit marbleheadelectric.com/ for more information.

Specimen ballot published

View the specimen ballot for the June 20 municipal election at the following link: bit. ly/3MV6A8H.

Rotary Club camperships

Marblehead Rotary Club

Co-Presidents Nancy Gwin and Blair Lord of the Rotary Club of Marblehead are announcing camp scholarships. The Rotary Club raises funds for camperships through its annual summer lobster raffle, with over $219,716 awarded to more than 380 children in the past 23 years.

Gwin and Lord said the goal is to help children attend their chosen camp, with popular local options including the Marblehead Park and Recreation Department’s playground camp, YMCA’s Children’s Island and Camp Rotary. Camperships may be up to $500 per child, and children living in Marblehead can receive assistance twice.

Call or email Ellen Winkler at 781-631-6404 or ewinkler@ emwinklerlaw.com with questions or to request an application for a campership. Each household needs to fill out one form. Applications will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Town employment opportunities

Here is a list of current employment opportunities within the town. Visit marblehead.org to read job descriptions.

» Seasonal laborer Transfer station operator

» Mechanic pipefitter II

» SR seasonal harbor assistant Seasonal pump-out assistant

» Building attendant (part-time)

Two volunteer positions

For an employment application, visit: bit.ly/3i9ct6j. Return the completed form to the respective department with the job opening or follow the instructions mentioned in the job description.

BOARD

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over an increasing number of jobs.

“However, Class of 2023, this does not worry me,” he said. “Our class is filled with the one thing an algorithm cannot replicate: personality. A computer can’t laugh like we can, can’t cry like we can, can’t find comfort in each other like we can.”

He continued, “It is our personalities that differentiate us, make us who we are and have shaped our past, from Marblehead High School, to our future, wherever that might take us.”

all winter — we have persevered.”

he begins his tenure as Danvers Public Schools superintendent.

More Class of ’23 graduation

» Valedictory address, list of graduates, class president address, Page 16 » More photos, Page 17

Setting

a ‘gold standard’

Speeches arrived one after another in the 90-minute commencement ceremony filled with tradition and live music before the 220 graduates moved their tassels from right to left.

Superintendent John Buckey spoke about what he believed made the Class of 2023 exceptional, but first he mentioned the district works hard to “provide a gold standard education.”

“This class has achieved a gold standard in academics: four are National Merit Scholars; 84% of [graduates] will continue their education in two-year [or] four-year post-graduate institutions as a result of submitting nearly 2,000 applications,” he said. “We are honored to have one member of the class pursuing military service,” a statement that garnered widespread applause.

He said two graduates were the inaugural students to complete Essex Tech’s “After Dark Program,” which opens career pathways for students tailored to the

needs of state and regional labor markets.

Members of the class also completed thousands of hours of community service, according to Buckey.

“In athletics, you set what one might call the platinum standard, with 30 all-conference players, 20 all-star players, seven teams winning the NEC division, three undefeated seasons,” he said. “We are extraordinarily proud.”

Perseverance, resiliency

Meanwhile, a theme of resiliency emerged from Cate Trautman’s salutatory address. The class had spent more than

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023at 8:15PM ontherequestof AndrewMahoney to varytheapplicationofthepresent ZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecialPermitandamendmentofapreviouslyissued BoardofAppealsspecialpermitfortheeliminationoftheparkingrequirementfor onsiteparking.Thepropertyisanexistingsingle-familydwellingonapreexisting non-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredlotarea,lotwidth,frontyard setback,openareaandparkinglocatedat 8ShepardStreet in theSingleResidenceDistrict.Thenewconstructionwillbewithinthesideandrearyardsetbacks. ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoning Bylaw,andChapter40AoftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernorBaker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeeting Law,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconductedvia remoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipationplatformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/ 87878347282?pwd=en lwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeeting,but canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https://www. marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthedateofmeeting. Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbeallowedtomake commentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearingdesignatedfor publiccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentinwritingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org and thecomments,willbeincludedin therecord.

AlanLipkind Secretary

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023

at8:30PM ontherequestof CarolineandJohnClark tovarytheapplication ofthepresentZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecialPermittheconstructionof adeckadditiontoanexistingsingle-familydwellingonapreexistingnon-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredlotarea,lotwidth,frontage,front andsideyardsetbacksandparkinglocatedat 71JerseyStreet intheSingleResidenceDistrict.Thenewconstructionwillbewithinthesideyardsetback.This hearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoningBylaw,andChapter40AoftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernor Baker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeeting Law,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconductedvia remoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipationplatformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/87878347282?pwd=enlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeetingbut canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https:// www.marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthedate ofmeeting.Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbe allowedtomakecommentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearing designatedforpubliccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentin writingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org andthecomments, willbeincludedin therecord

Alan Lipkind Secretary

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023, at8:00PM ontherequestof DanielleJohnson tovarytheapplicationofthe presentZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecialPermittheconstructionofan additiontoanexistingsingle-familydwellingonapreexistingnon-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredlotwidth,frontage,sideyardsetback andparkinglocatedat 17Seaview Avenue intheSingleResidenceDistrict. Thenewconstructionwillbewithinthesideyardsetbackandexceedthe10% expansionlimitsforanon-conformingbuilding.ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoningBylaw,andChapter 40AoftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernorBaker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeetingLaw,G.L. c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconductedviaremote participation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipation platformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/87878347282?pwd=enlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09

Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeetingbut canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https:// www.marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthedateof meeting.Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbeallowed tomakecommentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearingdesignatedforpubliccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentin writingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org andthecomments, willbeincludedin therecord Alan Lipkind Secretary

Opening the commencement, sisters Tayma and Tamia Johnson spoke about their METCO experiences and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

a year in remote learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Through the times of deep quarantine as freshmen, and the Zoom classes as sophomores, the mask requirements until junior year, the canceled and delayed sports seasons, we have persevered,” she said.

“Through an extremely polarized political period in our country, through ALICE [active shooter] drills and constant news of school shootings, through one of the most competitive college admissions years — and even through Mr. Ryan’s sophomore English class, which was outside

“We were practically inseparable for the first 10 years of our lives until we joined the METCO program,” said Tayma Johnson. “In 2014, we had our first day of Marblehead Public Schools, tiny clueless fourth graders who had no idea of the journey ahead.” Both became heavily involved in extracurricular activities, including volleyball and lacrosse.

“This experience has taught us how to take advantage of the opportunities that are presented to us,” Tamia Johnson said. “No matter where we are, METCO has shaped us into someone who is never afraid to try something new because that’s where the growth happens.”

Bidding Bauer

farewell

Friday’s commencement concluded with Principal Daniel Bauer conferring diplomas in his last commencement before

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023 at8:00PM ontherequestof StephanieCummingham tovarytheapplication ofthepresentZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecialPermittheconstructionof anshedasanaccessorytoanexistingsingle-familydwellingonapreexisting non-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredlotarea,frontage,frontand sideyardsetbacklocatedat 1LafayetteStreet intheSingleResidenceDistrict.

Thenewconstructionwillbewithinthesideandrearyardsetbacks.ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoningBylaw, andChapter40AoftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernor Baker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeeting Law,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconducted viaremoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremote participationplatformthroughthefollowingways: JoinZoomMeetinghttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/87878347282?pwd=enlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568 Thoseonlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeeting,butcanfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https://www.marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthe dateofmeeting.Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywill beallowedtomakecommentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthe hearingdesignatedforpubliccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmit commentinwritingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org and thecomments,willbeincludedintherecord.

AlanLipkind Secretary

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023at

7:45PM on therequestof BrianandMeghanPerlow tovarytheapplicationof thepresentZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecialPermittheconstructionofanadditiontoanexistingsingle-familydwellingonapreexistingnon-conformingproperty withlessthantherequiredlotarea,frontage,lotwidth,sideyardandfrontyard setbacksandparkinglocatedat 11 Ruby Avenue intheSingleResidenceDistrict. Thenewconstructionwillbeinthefrontandsideyardsetbacksandreducetheopen areaotlessthanrequiredandexceedthe10%expansionlimitsforanon-conforming building.ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarblehead ZoningBylaw,andChapter40AoftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuantto GovernorBaker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpen MeetingLaw,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconducted viaremoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipationplatformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/8787834 7282?pwd=e nlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09

Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeeting,but canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https://www. marblehead.org under thezoningboardofappealspageandthedateofmeeting. Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbeallowedtomake commentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearingdesignatedfor publiccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentinwritingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org andthecomments,willbeincludedin therecord.

AlanLipkind Secretary

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023at

7:30PM ontherequestof KennethJ.&JuliaA.Adam Trustees,AdamFamily Realty Trust tovarytheapplicationofthepresentZoningBy-lawbyallowinga SpecialPermittheconstructionofanadditiontoanexistingsingle-familydwelling onapreexistingnon-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredfrontyard setbacklocatedat 7 Buena VistaRoad intheSingleResidenceDistrict.Thenew constructionexceedsthe10%expansionlimitsforanon-conformingbuilding. ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoning Bylaw,andChapter40A of theGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernorBaker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeeting Law,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconductedvia remoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipationplatformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/87 878347282?pwd=en lwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09

Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeetingbut canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https://www. marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthedateofmeeting. Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbeallowedtomake commentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearingdesignatedfor publiccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentinwritingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org andthecomments,willbeincludedin therecord.

AlanLipkind Secretary

“Dan Bauer has made innumerable contributions to our school and community,” said Buckey. “Jimmy Johnson, coach for the Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins, said the difference between ‘ordinary’ and ‘extraordinary’ is that ‘little extra.’ Dan has always given that little extra, and we are a better school and school district as a result of Dan Bauer being here.”

Bauer spent over twothirds of his final farewell address pivoting the spotlight to other people and showering praise on the Class of 2023.

“I guess this is the point in the graduation speech where you offer advice, the lessons to carry out in the real world,” said Bauer. “But honestly, let’s face it: Life is a series of ups and downs. It’s really how you

navigate and stay steady and work through the highs and lows. Count on the friends around you and the relationships you’ve developed.”

He encouraged the graduates to keep a positive outlook and practice kindness, an attribute that he believed could determine “the difference between success and failure.”

“One of the things that we can always do is be kind,” said Bauer as he choked up, which prompted a prolonged standing ovation. “It doesn’t cost anything.”

TOWNOFMARBLEHEAD BOARDOFAPPEALS

TheBoardofAppealswillholdapublichearingon TuesdayJune27,2023at 8:15PM ontherequestof HarborsideCondominium Trust–c/oDavidGold, Trustee tovarytheapplicationofthepresentZoningBy-lawbyallowingaSpecial Permitorvariancefortheconstructionofalterationstoanexistingmulti-family dwellingonapreexistingnon-conformingpropertywithlessthantherequiredrear yardsetback,sideyardsetback,openareaandparkingandexceedsthemaximum heightlimitlocatedat 24LeeStreet intheHarborfrontandShorelineCentralResidenceDistrict.Thenewconstructionwillbewithinthesideandrearyardsetback. ThishearingisheldinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheMarbleheadZoning Bylaw,andChapter40A oftheGeneralLawsasamendedandPursuanttoGovernorBaker ’s OrderallowingsuspensionofCertainProvisionsoftheOpenMeeting Law,G.L.c.30A,§18,thispublichearingoftheBoardisbeingconductedvia remoteparticipation.Thepubliccanattendthismeetingviatheremoteparticipationplatformthroughthefollowingways:JoinZoomMeeting https://us06web. zoom.us/j/87 878347282?pwd=en lwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dialin+16465588656MeetingID:87878347282Passcode:404568Those onlydialinginwillnothaveaccesstothevisualpresentationatthemeetingbut canfollowalongwiththeprojectmaterialsavailablefordownloadat https://www. marblehead.org underthezoningboardofappealspageandthedateofmeeting. Membersofthepublicattendingthismeetingvirtuallywillbeallowedtomake commentsiftheywishtodoso,duringtheportionofthehearingdesignatedfor publiccomment.Interestedpersonsmayalsosubmitcommentinwritingelectronicallyandsendto lyonsl@marblehead.org andthecomments,willbeincludedin therecord.

AlanLipkind Secretary

WaterwaysApplicationNo.23-WW01-0009-APP

Applicant: JamesL.IIIandMeredith Tedford

ProjectLocation: 10HarvardStreet,Marblehead,EssexCounty

NotificationDate: June6,2023

PublicCommentsDeadline: July6,2023

PublicNoticeisherebygivenoftheChapter91LicenseApplicationbyJamesL.IIIandMeredith Tedfordforauthorizationtoconstructandmaintainawoodenpier,gangwayandfloatingdock andforafter-the-factauthorizationforfillingoftidelandsandinstallationofaseawallforshoreline stabilizationinfilledandflowed tidelandsofMarbleheadHarbor,Marblehead,EssexCounty.The proposedprojecthasbeendeterminedtobea Water-DependentUseproject. TheDepartmentwillconsiderallwrittencommentsonthisLicenseapplicationreceivedbyJuly6,2023(PublicCommentsDeadline). Failureofanyaggrievedperson orgroupoften(10)citizensormore to submit writtencommentstothe WaterwaysRegulationProgrambythePublicCommentsDeadlinewillresultinthewaiverofanyrighttoan adjudicatoryhearinginaccordancewith310CMR9.13(4)(c).The groupofcitizensmustincludeatleastfive(5)citizenswhoare residentsofthemunicipalityinwhichtheproposedprojectislocated. ApublichearingmaybehelduponrequestbytheMunicipalOfficial. Projectplansanddocumentsfortheapplicationareonfileforpublicviewingelectronically at:https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/EEA/PublicApp/(enter23-WW01-0009-APPintheSearch Pageinthe“RecordID”field).Ifyouneedassistance,pleasecontactalice.doyle@mass.govorif youdonothaveaccesstoacomputer,pleaseleaveavoicemailat(617)292-5929andyouwill becontactedwithinformationonalternativeoptions. Itisrecommendedthatdocumentsandcorrespondence befiledelectronicallywiththeemailaddress specifiedabovewhenpossible;alternatively,commentsmaybemailedtoAliceDoyleatMassDEP WaterwaysRegulationProgram,100CambridgeStreet,Suite900, Boston,MA02114.

Outgoing Principal Daniel Bauer delivers his final address at a Marblehead High School graduation.

CURRENT PHOTOS / NICOLE GOODHUE BOYD

Future collegiate destinations adorn mortarboards during Marblehead High School’s graduation.

Mimi Fallon takes a selfie with her friend, Elizabeth Erskine, right.

Delay in enforcement of leaf blower ban

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Town Meeting approved a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers from Memorial Day to Labor Day and added penalties for scofflaws, so what should citizens do if they see someone violating the new law?

Nothing, for now.

The penalties passed at last month’s Town Meeting need to be approved by the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office which could take a few months, according to Police Chief Dennis King. King released a joint statement about the leaf blowers with Health Agent Andrew Petty and Town Administrator Thatcher Keezer.

“Without the mechanism

to enforce and penalize, the town is asking that people comply with the will of the Town Meeting vote without town enforcement,” the statement reads. “Our hope is that educating and informing residents and landscapers of the bylaw through this notice is a call for compliance, rather than a call to the station.”

Marblehead Police and Health Department personnel are in charge of enforcing the ban and issuing citations and fines if they witness an infraction.

The penalties are: a warning and cease operation for a first offense, followed by a $100 fine for a second offense and $200 fine for each ensuing offense.

King believes the penalties will

A call to arms

be approved by the state by the end of the summer.

Petty told the Marblehead Current he knows the new ban isn’t being 100% followed right now.

“I’ve received complaints, I’ve received several emails,” he said.

“Be assured, that when the AG approval goes through, assuming it does, both the MPD and Health Departments will respond to calls of reported violations and follow the process and issue penalties outlined in the bylaw,” according to the statement. “For now, it’s really your civic obligation to follow the will of Town Meeting. Truth be told, we hope that voluntary compliance is all the policing needed.”

Glover’s Regiment is looking for new recruits

BY CHRIS STEVENS

Glover’s Marblehead Regiment is looking for a few good men — and women and even children.

The 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy is bearing down, and Glover’s Regiment is getting ready to celebrate the key roles it played in those early days of the Navy’s formation and the Revolutionary War.

“We want to start publicizing now so we’re in position to get more recruits,” said GMR Captain Seamus Daly. “We need more recruits.”

Glover’s Marblehead Regiment (gloversregiment. org/) is a group of historical reenactors who portray life as a sailor/soldier, or in some instances, camp wives, living in Marblehead during the Revolutionary War.

Why would Glover’s Regiment celebrate the Navy? Because in the fall of 1775, the Hannah, a schooner donated by Marblehead’s John Glover, became the first vessel to sail under Continental pay and control, making it the very first U.S. Navy ship.

“The American Navy was founded in this stretch of water right here between Marblehead and Beverly,” said Daly, speaking on a cold, damp day in June from Fort Sewall.

But if you’re thinking, joining GMR isn’t exactly your cup of tea, you’re not alone. It wasn’t Daly’s

either, until it was.

The accidental sailor

In 2006, Daly had no desire to even attend a Glover’s Regiment event but his wife had been the successful bidder on a weekend encampment with the band of merry sailors.

“And she made me attend,” he said. “And I found I absolutely loved it.”

Daly, decked out in his formal regimental uniform, said it’s the camaraderie, taking part in living history and, he admits, the adrenaline rush from reenacting battle scenes that he loves.

Collin Lawton was similarly smitten from the start. Lawton, who was dressed as a “gentleman soldier,” said he was living

in Dorchester with his wife Meaghan Flaherty when he came to Marblehead to visit a friend.

“It just happened to be the day of the summer encampment,” Lawton said. “I stumbled upon the encampment … and it was magical.”

A history buff already, Lawton said he knew he had found a home with Glover’s tribe. He called the reenactment group a great way to reconnect with history and disconnect from modern life.

“History is very cyclical,” he said. “It doesn’t repeat but it does rhyme, and we can learn a lot from our past by reconnecting with it through history.”

Lawton also said, “The fact we get to live just like they did in the 18th

century is really special.”

It’s also cool, Daly said. What it takes

“It is a significant commitment; I believe it’s a worthwhile commitment,” Daly said. “This can’t be done on a whim.”

It can also be expensive.

Daly said it can cost up to $2,000 to kit out a soldier, but GMR maintains a “slop chest” of periodappropriate clothing and accouterments. Daly said potential recruits can borrow items temporarily while deciding if enlisting is for them.

“We help them figure out what personae they want to portray,” Daly added.

Lawton also has a sailor’s “slops” and Daly has three outfits he wears depending on the event, the formal regimental uniform, a sailor uniform and a civilian gentleman’s outfit.

Reenactors are also expected to know their history and their role in it. Daly said one of the coolest things about being part of Glover’s Regiment is the part it played early in the war.

“Particularly in 1776 when Glover and his men save the revolution three times,” he said. “We call it the three saves.”

1. In late August 1776, General George Washington’s men were trapped by the Crown forces in Brooklyn Heights. In a bind, Washington asked Glover to evacuate his men. So, under the cover of darkness Glover’s men

rowed about 5,000 men across the East River.

“They were helped by the fact a fog rolled in and the Royal Navy couldn’t see a darn thing, they couldn’t move their ships,” Daly said.

Lawton also noted that since Glover’s Regiment was comprised mostly of fishermen, they were able to navigate the currents, and do so silently.

2. On Oct. 18, 1776 in Pelham Bay, the British landed with a plan to race across the upper neck of Manhattan and cut off Washington’s army. Daly said despite being grossly outnumbered, Glover and his men deployed a daylong battle that held the British off long enough for Washington and his army to escape.

3. The last save was Glover’s most famous.

On Christmas, 1776, Glover’s regiment ferried Washington and 2,400 of his troops across the Delaware in brutal weather, marched seven miles to Trenton, fought a 36-hour battle, marched back to the Delaware, and crewed everyone (including about 900 Hessian prisoners) back over the river again.

“That was a long day,” Lawton quipped.

“That’s why it’s really cool to be part of Glover’s,” Daly said. “We rowed Washington across the Delaware. When you’re talking to the public it’s a great schtick, it’s a great hook.”

Time

Joining also includes attending monthly meetings and turning out for events. From

Memorial Day services to the Christmas Walk to the summer encampment at Fort Sewall, Glover’s Regiment is a busy group.

“Another thing we absolutely love about Glover’s is Marblehead, the townspeople take us for granted,” Daly said.

“The town supports everything we do. I can’t emphasize that enough.”

This year’s encampment will be held July 15, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and includes 18th-century crafts, like blacksmithing, battle reenactments, a children’s drill, cannon firing, sea shanties and fife and drum music.

Daly said Glover’s has about 20 steady members at the moment, including Luna, Lawton and Flaherty’s one-year-old daughter. There is no age limit to join Glover’s but one must be 16.5 years of age to carry and shoot a weapon.

If you think you might want to take part, contact Daly through the website at gloversregiment. org or on Facebook at facebook.com/ glovers marbleheadregiment.

“People should join to relive history and figure out where their country came from and what it took to make it,” Daly said.

And it’s a great family adventure as well, said Flaherty, who also joined GMR.

“This was right up my alley too,” she said. “I was equally hooked and honestly it’s a great place to raise your family. I know many people who raise their families in the regiment.”

COURTESY PHOTO

A Marblehead resident snapped this photo of someone using a nowbanned gas leaf blower.

CURRENT PHOTO / NICOLE GOODHUE BOYD.

Glover’s Marblehead Regiment marches by the Old Town House in its annual procession to Gen. John Glover’s grave atop Old Burial Hill.

CURRENT PHOTO / CHRIS STEVENS Seamus Daly, left, and Collin Lawton are members of Glover’s Marblehead Regiment, a Revolutionary War re-enactment group looking for new members before the county’s 250th birthday.

The wizarding family of Marblehead

BY PAM PETERSON

Long ago, in the early 1700s, a retired ship’s captain named Edward Dimond lived at the foot of Old Burial Hill, in a house still known as the Old Brig. He was called Wizard Dimond, and many people believed, as he did himself, that he had special powers. The Wizard often wore a large cape and was a tall, imposing and respected old man. On stormy nights, Wizard Dimond could be found up at the top of Burial Hill, cape swirling in the wind, railing at the forces of nature and calling out to the fishing schooners at sea. He called the vessels and their crews by name and shouted commands to the forces of nature. He demanded that the winds and rough seas become calm and send the ships safely home to Marblehead harbor.

When local wives and families were worried, they paid a visit to Wizard Dimond’s house. They begged him to intercede for their loved ones to keep them safe. There were many tales from sailors and fishermen who said that when on board ship they clearly heard Wizard Dimond’s voice above the wind and waves calling them home.

Wizard Dimond also helped people when they had troubles on land. One time, a poor widow of Marblehead was the victim of theft. All her wood for the winter had been stolen and she came to Wizard Dimond for help, afraid that she would freeze to death in the coming winter. Old Dimond discovered the thief, chastised him for his evil deed and made him replace all the wood. Then he also enacted a magical punishment. He put a spell on the man so that he had to walk all night with a heavy log attached to his back that he couldn’t remove. He was forced to walk back and forth from his house to the widow’s cottage from sunset to sunrise without stopping.

By morning he was dropping with fatigue, and surely must have learned his lesson. The Wizard’s spell also made those who would steal from defenseless widows think twice about it.

Moll Dimond Pitcher was born in 1738 at her grandfather Wizard Dimond’s house on Orne Street in Marblehead. Her father, Aholiab Dimond, was a cordwainer or shoemaker, and he had an apprentice named Robert Pitcher. Moll and Robert fell in love and were married. They moved to Lynn and lived at the foot of High Rock. Their cottage soon became famous because visitors made their way there to consult Moll Pitcher and have their fortunes told. Many came looking, as Moll had inherited her grandfather’s special powers. She had the ability to see into the future, and her skill as a Prophetess became famous. It was written that “Royalty of Europe as well as simple maids of America sought

to learn the future from her.”

Moll is said to have predicted the outcome of the Battle of Bunker Hill. General John Glover of Marblehead escorted Moll Pitcher to Cambridge to see General George Washington, where she raised his

spirits greatly when she foretold the outcome of the Revolutionary War. British generals, including Burgoyne, Pitcairn and Gage also consulted the oracle. She is said to have gained more information from them than they did from her, and to have secretly passed it on to Elbridge Gerry of Marblehead, acting as a double-agent to help the patriotic cause.

Moll Pitcher was certainly the most famous fortune teller ever known on the North Shore. Sailors and sea captains refused to leave port if Moll predicted a bad voyage. Treasure hunters also consulted Moll, but she scoffed at them, saying, “Fools; if I knew where money was buried, do you think I would tell you?”

EDITORIAL

Rites and wrongs

Behind the scenes at the Current as the week drew to a close, we could not help but be struck by the juxtaposition of two annual local rites of spring — one that, without fail, draws the community together, and the other that seems to be tearing it apart more than usual.

The first, of course, is the commencement ceremony that sent the Marblehead High School Class of 2023 — along with beloved Principal Dan Bauer — off to new adventures.

From where we sit, speakers at graduation ceremonies hit all the right notes. The Class of 2023 had to navigate a series of challenges that have been and continue to be unfair and largely out of their control, from the lingering impact of the loss of in-person classes, events and activities to the COVID-19 pandemic to the looming threat of gun violence, with a scary false alarm nearby at St. John’s Prep offering a jarring reminder that those active shooter drills of which salutatorian Cate Trautman spoke are a sad necessity.

And yet, it seems that those challenges have drawn the MHS community closer. Valedictorian Yasen Kadiyski Colón spoke of a class that laughed, cried and found comfort in one another. Class President Lucy Sabin proved that the Class of 2023 is leaving 2 Humphrey St. with a finely honed sense of humor.

These are qualities that will serve the graduates well in the places they will go next — and what a set of places they are, as the college-destination map elsewhere in this issue shows.

The second event to which we refer is the June 20 election, the results of which will be known before the next issue of the Current hits the streets. (Keep your eyes peeled to marbleheadcurrent.org for up-to-theminute results.)

In the weeks leading up to the election, we have tried to give you as much information as possible to help you make your decisions. We had full participation from candidates responding to the questions in our election guide. With the help of a community member, we are now offering an online “override calculator” so you can see what a “yes” vote on Question 1 will cost you. And we have opened our pages as wide as possible to letters to the editor so you can see what your neighbors think about the issues and candidates as well.

But there are some who will say we could have done more — to dispel misinformation, unmask people’s true motivations for running or illuminate what some view as deliberate attempts to manipulate voters.

On that, we will say a few things.

One, even though they feel like it, elections are not the end of important community conversations. Yes, who has which seat at the table may change, but we retain the ability to turn up the heat on those seats, if necessary, or at least ensure that their occupants are making decisions for the right reasons and based on valid data.

For example, “lacking transparency” may not be the fairest or most accurate characterization of the long history of the transfer station project. But as one of the Board of Health candidates noted, it also should not be as hard as it seems to be to refresh one’s memory about where we have been and where we still need to go with “the dump.”

Job number one for whomever is elected to the Board of Health, it seems, may be to do a “reset” to remind the community where the transfer station stands and then work collaboratively towards consensus around what it should become. The newly elected board member should then accept the community’s verdict, even if it does not match his personal preferences.

As noted in this week’s edition, the sitting members of the School Committee — and presumably those vying to join them — have widely divergent views of the superintendent’s job performance.

Outgoing School Committee member Thomas Mathers used the context of Superintendent John Buckey’s performance evaluation to remind his colleagues that the district has had seven superintendents in the last 15 years.

“This is an untenable period of instability and detrimental to MPS,” he wrote.

We wholeheartedly agree.

Given that, no matter who is sitting on the School Committee after the votes are counted June 20, it should only continue a discussion over the future direction of the district, not end it. There may be a case to be made for yet more change, but it has not been made yet.

The guiding light for those discussions to come should be student outcomes, and the measuring sticks, whenever possible, should be unimpeachable data. Committee members might also be well advised to think long and hard about how fair it is to judge any employee thrown a curveball as big as COVID-19.

In his remarks at graduation, Bauer aptly advised the graduates about the value of tending to their relationships. He also reminded them that it “costs nothing” to be kind.

All evidence suggests these lessons are already part of the DNA of the Class of 2023. But we would love to see them embodied in our newly reconstituted boards and commissions as well. Indeed, it is essential to making the best possible decisions on behalf of the town in the days ahead.

EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY

Seeing green

BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM

Last week, I had one of those days that was so hectic I couldn’t stop to go to the bathroom. My eyes had been glued to a computer screen for hours, and I was getting frazzled. I needed a break.

I’ve worked out of a home office since March of 2020, first driven by COVID, now driven by choice. Thus my “break” was not to an office water cooler but taking a few steps out to my back deck and yard. Almost instantly, I felt my shoulders relax and my breathing slow. Why? One word: sod.

Yes, sod.

As I’ve written before, my home has been under construction. The backyard for most of the last year has been a mound of brown dirt, surrounded by more dirt.

Brown is a great color for eyes, but not so much for the soul. Two weeks ago, though, landscapers descended on my backyard like bees on a bed of flowers. The brown mounds were flattened by rakes and hoes and then covered with rolls — so many rolls — of sod.

Within hours, my yard was transformed to a glorious emerald green. And so was my mental health. Transformed, that is.

Why does the color green have such an immediate positive effect? Certainly, we’ve heard over and over how good being out in nature is for your mental health. Other than chirping birds and the occasional bunny, though, I’m not sure my backyard counts as being “in nature.”

There’s a whole panoply of literature on the psychology of color. I could pursue a Ph.D. on color theory, there’s so much literature and so many applications of color knowledge out there.

Experts opine on what color to paint different rooms in your home, what colors brands should use for logos and marketing, what colors address depression, what colors stimulate the libido, how ancient Egyptians experimented with color treatments.

I had a simpler mission. To play on Kermit the frog’s lament that “it’s not easy being green,” I just wanted to know: Why is it so easing to see the color green?

Here’s what I learned. First of all, green is a

are us

BY JO ANN AUGERI SILVA

It’s election season, so lawns are littered with campaign signs and Facebook pages are littered with claims that “they” have made a mess of things, so let’s vote “them” out. Since Marblehead has the first general override question since 2005 on the ballot as well, those “us vs. them” cries are even louder than usual.

Here’s the thing: There is no “them” in Marblehead. “They” are all “us.”

Policy decisions in Marblehead are made by volunteers. Really. A few elected town officials receive a stipend, but the amount is so small it rarely covers the expenses a person incurs when serving the town, and it hardly counts as a salary.

Our elected and appointed town officials hire paid employees, and those paid employees implement policies set by volunteers. We vote for those volunteers. If we don’t approve of the policies they make, it’s our job to vote for people whose policies we like better. Or, run for office ourselves. Complaining without helping to solve a problem is just whining.

Many official positions, like the Finance Committee and Zoning

“secondary,” not primary, color. (Bear with me wiser readers; I haven’t thought about primary colors since volunteering in my daughter’s kindergarten class).

Green is a combination of yellow (mental clarity and optimism) and blue (emotional calm and insight).

“The color green relates to balance and harmony. From a color psychology perspective, it is the great balancer of the heart and the emotions, creating equilibrium between the head and the heart,” I found in one overview on the power of art therapy. Now, I was getting somewhere.

Green is a “cool” color — calming as opposed to stimulating, like red.

Carl Jung is thought to be the pioneer of the study of the role of color in modern psychological theory. “Colors,” he wrote, “are the mother tongue of the subconscious.”

Clearly, mine speaks green.

I also learned that we have “referential” versus “embodied” reactions to color. Perhaps being drawn to the color green evokes for me — or references — the idyll of childhood summers spent in my yard searching for a four-leaf clover, a favorite activity.

My embodied reaction actually has a biological basis. The eye focuses the color green — and other cool colors — directly on the retina, and is less of a strain on your eye muscles.

There are surveys galore of color preferences. One from 2016 found Americans prefer blue, followed by green, purple and red. Yellow and brown were the least popular, the latter perhaps due to its association with poop. Yes, poop.

My study, and this column, of color could go on for years. There are that many paths of color inquiry. And I haven’t even gotten to sod! Did you know that sod is actually farmed and harvested? Neither did I. There’s so much more to know — and so little time — I’m growing anxious.

You’ll find me calming myself down in my backyard, humming along to Kermit: “When green is all there is to be, it could make you wonder why. But why wonder? I’m green, and it’ll do fine. It’s beautiful, and I think it’s what I want to be.”

Virginia Buckingham is the president of the Current’s board of directors. Her column appears weekly.

Board of Appeals, are appointed, usually by the Select Board. Every one of those appointed positions is filled by volunteers. Spots often are left unfilled because “we” don’t apply for them.

And yet. Hear those cries: “They” have mismanaged our funds. “They” have mismanaged our schools, our Municipal Light Department, our roads, our trees. “They” have been in office too long, or not long enough. There are FaceBook pages dedicated to lambasting the way the town is run by “them.” “They” can’t win. Please don’t mistake this as an apologia for officials who don’t know what they’re doing. There are some of those, just as there are some officials who have been in office beyond their retire-by date. I wish they knew who they are.

There are all sorts of reasons why people run for office or ask to be appointed to an office. In general, these folks seek only to serve. They have skills they’d like to share for the betterment of our town. As volunteers.

Who are those folks? Us. You and me. Your neighbors, maybe your friends. They are among the 16,232 registered voters in our town, like most of you reading this. And if you are among those 16,232, you could be among them. All you have to do is figure out what you’d like to

do for Marblehead, run for office yourself, or apply for one of those many empty volunteer jobs.

Of course, there are those who run, or apply, because they have one axe or another to grind, and some who seem to get off on the perceived (if to this writer imperceptible) perks of wielding some form of power over others. Fortunately, even if they get elected or appointed, most of that type doesn’t last long, and when they finally leave you can hear the collective sigh of relief from Fort Sewall to Tedesco.

Admittedly, most of these jobs are thankless. Take the Zoning Board of Appeals. Please. I served on the ZBA for several years, first as an alternate and then as secretary. Serving on the ZBA takes a lot of work. Learning the town’s by-laws and state precedents, carefully reviewing applications, visiting properties, listening to homeowners defend their right to build additions, garages, sheds, new construction, and then listening to neighbors lambasting those homeowners because the proposal would negatively impact their property in some way.

Many folks come to town believing that once they buy a property, they can do anything they

I BEG TO DIFFER

‘They’

Support Sarah Gold for School Committee

To the editor:

In a post-pandemic world where mental and behavioral health is at the forefront of complex issues our students face today, Sarah Gold is the School Committee candidate who is committed and qualified to address this crisis. Sarah understands that if our students are not well physically, mentally or behaviorally, they will not have the same chance of succeeding academically.

As a licensed mental health counselor and school counselor who works with children daily, Sarah knows the direct impact that mental health and well-being has on academic performance and socialization. As a member of the School Committee for the past five years, Sarah has worked tirelessly to improve our district and streamline policies and practices, improving the educational experience for students and staff. As a mom of two children in the district, Sarah can relate to the experiences of others and understands the issues that are important not only to parents but to students and staff as well. The mental health crisis we continue to face is not going away. Sarah Gold will continue to advocate on behalf of all students in our district.

Melissa Kaplowitch Camille Terrace

Smith, Wolf for Light Commission

To the editor:

I wholeheartedly support

Adam Smith and Lisa Wolf for Light Commission. In my opinion, they are the best candidates to help us create and sustain a resilient, wellmanaged infrastructure that can continue to supply reliable, lowcost electricity to Marblehead residents.

Having grown up in Marblehead, I always took electricity for granted. When I moved to California in 1986, that all changed. I experienced 30 years of earthquakes, fires and floods that interrupted power for days. When I moved back to Marblehead in 2018, I was impressed by the crew of the Marblehead Light Department, who always seemed to get our power back on before other towns during storms.

Then came the fall of 2022. The power to the whole town went out for several hours when a tree fell on the main line bringing power into town. Because of this event, I became aware that our town had become vulnerable to more frequent power outages with increasing storms due to climate change. I also became aware that past Light Commissions had failed to plan properly and had allowed our infrastructure (transformers, power lines, poles, etc.) to decay past their replacement dates.

Decades of deferred maintenance have left our

Silva

From

want with it and are horrified at town by-laws that set limits on their hopes, dreams and divine rights. Conversely, there are folks who can’t conceive of any change whatsoever in their neighborhood, so they oppose everything. We won’t get into big, controversial projects except to say this: Yelling “the fix is in” at a ZBA meeting betrays a serious break with the reality of government as it’s run here. So, yeah, look under “thankless

system unable to support increased demand from electric and hybrid vehicles and heat pumps, which residents are being incentivized to acquire by federal and state-funded programs to meet carbon reduction goals.

Adam has a background in technology and innovation that qualifies him to provide guidance regarding critical aspects of infrastructure upgrades, such as new software, security and protection from cyber threats.

Lisa is an environmental engineer who serves as Sustainability Coordinator for the Wellesley Light Plant, experience that is clearly highly relevant to her role on the Commission. Please consider casting your vote for these two well-qualified candidates for Light Commission on June 20.

Amy Hirschkron Abbot Court

To override or not to override

To the editor:

On June 20, you have a big decision on Question 1 – to override or not. Marblehead is out of cash to just maintain the level of services we have now. We complain about the cost of deferred maintenance and unmet park and rec and cemetery needs. Our town workers see the needs too.

They are amazing for what they accomplish, given the resources available to them and the situations they sometimes put up with. Yet, once again, the message to them is do more with less, while we expect more.

It’s true we’re a pretty safe town. Fire and police will still come for a 911 call if the override doesn’t pass. There’s always overtime, but that’s a short-sighted solution, as staff burn out, and there are risks in running a few men down with little flexibility in staffing. The school department suffered the largest staffing cuts of 33, with no option for overtime there to pick up the slack since they run only one shift a day. Cutting staffing when we are hoping to meet more special needs in the district and prevent costly outof-town placements is not really cost-effective. Cutting teachers or sports, post-pandemic with significant student learning loss and mental health needs, is not a wise decision. Letting schools fall behind, also lowers property values, which is something to consider.

Our current tax rate is $10 per thousand. Out of 34 cities and towns, we have one of the lowest tax rates in Essex County, near the bottom. It’s been 18 years since we passed a Proposition 2 ½ override, and of course, costs have risen, look at your own health care and energy budget.

If we say we love the town, let’s vote like we mean it. Restore the cuts! VOTE YES on 1.

Renee Ramirez Keaney

Bill

Keaney

Beverly

Avenue

Support for Smith, Wolf

To the editor: I have followed the worsening scientific projections and actual

jobs” in the dictionary and “serving on the Marblehead ZBA” is listed first.

Sadly, ZBA is not alone. Pretty much every other town board, committee and commission is listed there as well.

What is it about taking on a thankless, unpaid job that makes our fellow residents start disagreeing disagreeably about the way the job is being done?

What motivates a person to start a social media page whose main purpose is to criticize the way anything is done in 01945? And after living here only 10 years?

What motivates a person to stalk

events of global warming, specific threats to Marblehead, as well as the response of the Marblehead Municipal Light Department (MMLD). Some letter writers have warned about moving too fast to meet these challenges. From what I have seen, the greater danger is in moving too slowly.

MMLD has a great staff, with excellent response times for outages. But, from what I have seen and attended Light Commission meetings, there needs to be more planning and execution. We must electrify and get off fossil fuels as quickly as possible while keeping rates as low as possible. Safely, but quickly. Doing so requires not just competent Commissioners and a competent General Manager, but also the cooperation of every Marblehead resident.

Marblehead electricity rates are based on our peak usage during just a few hours of the year, typically during summer heat waves. As residents, we are capable of participating in an active plan to “shave the peak” in order to keep rates low for everyone. We have been told by MMLD that too many households adding electric vehicle chargers can blow out transformers for an entire block because there is no process to add car chargers safely. But communication between MMLD and town residents about this issue has been almost non-existent.

Business-as-usual and go-slow are advocated by some candidates and their proponents. In contrast, Lisa Wolf and Adam Smith — who currently serve on the board and have the experience and qualifications to do the job — have demonstrated the ability to tackle the complex balance between safety and action. They need our support to continue their work to move MMLD forward to meet the energy and climate challenges our town faces.

Frank Kashner Pickwick Road

Put the green back into our parks

To the editor: I met Larry Simpson about 12 years ago. We were both in overalls with dirt under our nails and got to talking about how to naturalize one’s property with plants that have lived and thrived in this climate and terrain for hundreds of years. Larry knows his plants. He understands how important parks are in maintaining the area’s environmental health and educating ourselves and our children on what it takes to create a circular system of well-being between humans, trees and the earth we dwell on. He would bring an expertise and caring that this pivotal department needs to balance the needs of a thriving community with the earth we live on. We would be blessed to have him on this commission.

Judith Black Prospect Street

away mad after convincingly losing an election and devote the rest of their natural life to claiming that the town should “pay the price” for re-electing the “old” folks they disagree with? What motivates a (very) small number of disagreeable people to organize a group with the main goal of upending every municipal institution in town because they disagree with them?

Do any of these disagreeables think carefully about the services our town offers for our tax dollars? Do they ever compare those services against

Supporting Belf-Becker on June 20

To the editor: Simply put, for over two decades, I’ve had the opportunity to watch Jackie BelfBecker, both as a close personal friend as well as an independent public official, dedicate literally tens of thousands of hours to helping make our town a better place to live; to educate our kids; to work and to raise our families.

As a public servant, she’s listened; she’s advocated; she’s innovated; and yes, sometimes she’s even tenaciously battled to help make Marblehead the kind of community where all voices are heard, and all ideas are given a chance to be debated.

As one of so many who has benefited from her efforts over the years, and who also believes she still has the passion, the experience, and the skill to contribute even more to our Town in the years to come, I urge you to vote on June 20 to re-elect Jackie Belf-Becker as a member of the Marblehead Select Board.

Michael Goldman Glendale Road

Return Noonan, Singer to Select Board

To the editor: Here are some reasons why I am voting for Erin Noonan and Alexa Singer to return them to the Select Board: they are engaged in strategic planning about the vital issues that we all, especially our elected leaders, need to attend to. Among those issues are the following: The fiscal well-being of the town so that we thrive, not just get by, in our schools. Affordable housing for our teachers and town employees, and returning graduates.

Attractive business policies and decisions to help grow our tax base and keep the town vibrant.

Smart carbon-emissions awareness and policy-making to help this vulnerable seaside town weather the coming storms of climate change.

Erin and Alexa are intelligent, considerate, deliberative and engaged women who care greatly about Marblehead’s past and future.

I will also vote for Bret Murray to join them – a returning, important voice on the Select Board.

You can read much more about all of them in last week’s Marblehead Current and also by googling them to reach their websites and Facebook postings. Please join me on June 20 in voting for these three proven progressive leaders.

Mimi Hollister Glover Square Becker

has ‘a known track record of civility’

Dr. David Becker, with his 18 years of experience on the Board of Health, has a known track record of civility, being able to work with others collaboratively,

those of surrounding towns with considerably higher tax rates?

Do they ever do more than come up with long lists of grievances combined with precious few effective solutions?

Democracy in our not-so-small seacoast town has always been a little cranky. Study Marblehead history and be amazed at the things voters have turned down — for one, Benjamin Abbot’s bequest to build what is now Abbot Hall was initially rejected.

What’s kept the town running remarkably smoothly over these nearly 400 years is that reason has won out

and making good decisions for the benefit of the Town.

As we all know, especially from our experience of the past few years, Public Health Emergencies can occur at the blink of an eye. We need someone on the Board of Health who has health and public health experience, to be able to make tough, educated decisions for the welfare of Marbleheaders. This is the Health and Waste department, but the transfer station is only one part of the responsibility of this position.

Dr. David Becker is clearly my choice for this important job.

Gene Arnould Mechanic Street

Voting Schaeffner and YES on 1

To the editor: I have had the distinct honor of working with Jenn Schaeffner to advocate for our schools. Jenn is always honest, does her due diligence, asks questions and never makes excuses. While there have been topics I have debated with Jenn, I have always felt she listens to my point of view, is respectful in stating hers and has the professionalism to not bring prejudice from previous topic discussions into what we are currently debating. Jenn doesn’t assign value to a thought or statement according to who is offering it. Simply put, she puts principles before personality.

Jenn has always impressed me with her understanding of municipal finance and commitment to public business happening in public. I am very confident that in casting my vote for Jenn Schaeffner, I am supporting improving outcomes for our students.

I am also proudly voting YES on question 1. In doing so, I am confident I am supporting Marblehead. The effects of proposed cuts to public safety, public works and schools are profound. The 33 school positions and programs that will be cut without the successful passage of question 1 would negatively affect all of our students. Please join me in preventing the loss of TWO high school science teachers, the middle school librarian position, several special education staff, critical support staff and freshman sports. Please join me in voting for Jenn Schaeffner for School Committee and yes on Question 1.

Sarah Fox Beach Street

Brewery vote disappointing

To the editor: Did you know between 2010 and 2021 there was over a 500% increase in small-scale craft breweries? New England is home to over 600 craft breweries, the Commonwealth accounting for just over 200, including brewpubs, farm breweries and manufacturers. The North Shore touts well over 20 breweries — Salem with two and Beverly with

over unreasonableness. When things go wrong, volunteers in elected and appointed office have worked together to make things right. If they kept getting it wrong, they got voted out, or new volunteers got appointed. Replaced by whom? By people like us, volunteers who take the risk of putting in the work of devoting their skills to making the town work better. In other words, putting their work where their mouths are. Disagreeing without being disagreeable. Becoming part of the solution. Realizing that there is no “them,” but only “us.”

Follow the tracks

The Marblehead Current is proud to partner with photographer and historian Dan Dixey, who regularly shares photos of Marblehead from his extensive collection, along with information about each shot.

“Here’s Franklin Street with trolley tracks. Stone’s Restaurant is down on the left, after the fire station. One of the town’s water pumps can be seen across the street, down on the right, with a trough providing water for horses. This photo is from the original, undated (circa 1915, possibly), glass negative taken by Marblehead photographer Fred Litchman.”

Dan Dixey

What’s going on here? Renovations on Washington Street

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Drive through the Old and Historic District lately? Folks may have noticed scaffolding surrounding the building abutting the Jeremiah Lee Mansion on Washington Street.

Recognizing that others in the community might share the same intrigue, the Marblehead Current staff reached out to Lauren McCormack, the executive director of the Marblehead Museum, to gather more insight.

McCormack shared details about the ongoing renovation, the building’s significance and the museum’s plans for its future.

What’s going on here? “Two things are going on in this photo, actually. The scaffolding is for the historic masonry experts who are repairing damaged bricks, repointing and shoring up the window lintels on the 2nd floor. On the left, you see the ramp for the demo crew who is working to give us access to the original roofing structure, which needs

Letters

From P. A7

five, but Marblehead with zero.

Since moving to Marblehead in August of 2020, my family and I have made it a point to explore the area. We’re constantly walking around town, searching for an outdoor patio to post up with our stroller and dog for a beer (spoiler alert, options are verrry limited). On weekends we travel to neighboring towns, using new breweries as a reason to explore the area. I was disappointed to hear the Select Board recently voted against bringing a new brewery to town and shocked to learn it was because an 11-seat hotel bar is being rewarded the liquor license.

Yes, I understand the Marblehead Hotel will likely see an influx of guests following the opening of The Mariner. As their lawyer stated: “Families are going to come; they’re going to stay at the hotel and visit their family...” But using that as the primary reason why they need a liquor license is weak. Per the Marnier’s website, the facility will boast a pub and full-service restaurant.

Did anyone on the Select Board ask to see revenue projections? I find it hard to believe an 11-seat bar will generate more revenue than a 120-seat (indoor) and 450-square-foot outdoor patio. Did anyone on the Select Board ask how many jobs the new opportunity would offer – one to two or five to 10? Fine if you want to reward a liquor license to an existing business, but why stop there?

A new liquor license in Massachusetts costs between $200-$500. In this economy, we should be saying yes to any new opportunity that will drive revenue, increase foot traffic and offer jobs in our town. Can we please start the process of requesting an additional license to support Hopothecary Ales Taproom?

Anne McCabe Baldwin Road

Adding to the Glover property conversation

To the editor:

It is interesting in the current reporting and discussions around the General John Glover property that General Glover’s

much remediation. The timbers are suffering from cracks, deflections, and old powderpost beetle damage.”

Is this part of a larger project?

“This work is part of our over $1 million project to preserve, restore and interpret this building that Jeremiah Lee built in the 1760s to be his carriage house and out-kitchen.” The museum also believes it served as housing for some or all of the individuals whom Lee enslaved.

How long will work last?

“When the project is completed in 2025, visitors will be able to see a recreation of the kitchen and slave quarters, as well as tour exhibits about Marblehead’s diverse history.”

How are you funding it? “We are seeking donations and grants to help fund this project. We are a private non-profit and receive no local, state, or federal funding except through competitive grants.”

Anything else people need to know? Folks can learn more and donate on the museum’s website, https://marbleheadmuseum.org/ kitchen-slave-quarters/

perhaps most significant contribution to history, that of putting together the first integrated regiment made up of European colonists, Native Americans and African Americans, doesn’t get a mention.

Integrating was perhaps the only way he could get a regiment of the proper size to do things like row George Washington across the Delaware River. This is an important fact when looking at the role of historic preservation efforts that conflict with the building of muchneeded housing. We are in the middle of a housing crisis that was in no small part caused by towns intentionally restricting the number of housing units and the kinds of housing units that could be built in an attempt to keep People of Color from living in them.

Town governments have historically done this, initially with explicitly racist laws, and then once those were outlawed during the Civil Rights Era, towns used exclusionary zoning by-laws to say “Hey, we’re full of people now…sorry. We just happen to all be mostly white.”

Those exclusionary zoning by-laws are still in place in Salem, Marblehead and Swampscott. They also use “historic preservation” efforts, which are oddly only focused on a single era and only the European-sourced variety of history to delay or deny housing.

The source of this conflict between preservation and fulfilling the needs of the current regional population isn’t the Swampscott Historical Commission; they have neither the time nor the funding to evaluate historic value unless an opportunity is actively presented to them, as is the case when this specific housing development was zoned for and proposed. Could they have been more proactive in the past?

Probably. The problem is that this is how the system was designed to work. The laws of our commonwealth force this conflict, whether intentional or not. Many fans of history often view these skirmishes as battles to be won. Still, when they win as they often do, the neglected victims of these stories are the people who desperately need a place to live and keep getting opportunities struck down by residents who are always eager to mobilize to say “Not here loudly.”

So before we swell our chests with righteous indignation about the moral obligation of preserving history, we should ask if the leader of the first integrated unit in American history would want to be the cause of keeping segregated communities segregated. We should also ask why we haven’t sought to preserve the rich Native American history that those during the historical slice we are trying to preserve attempted to erase. We should absolutely keep connections to our past history, but let’s make sure we are connecting to all of it and that we are also learning from the lessons it can teach us.

Aaron Berdofe Juniper Road Swampscott

Fix the town’s streets

To the editor:

Marblehead is a charming and historic town located in Essex County, Massachusetts. It is home to many beautiful homes, parks and beaches, and it attracts tourists and visitors from all over the world. However, as many residents and visitors know, the town’s streets’ condition leaves much to be desired. This article will explore the reasons why Marblehead should prioritize fixing its streets and the benefits that it will bring to the town.

First and foremost, the condition of the town’s streets poses a risk to public safety. Potholes, cracks and other road defects can cause accidents and injuries to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. In addition, poorly maintained roads can cause damage to vehicles, leading to costly repairs for residents and visitors alike.

Secondly, the state of the town’s streets can have a negative impact on the town’s economy. Visitors and tourists are less likely to return to Marblehead if they have a negative experience driving on its poorly maintained streets. Businesses in town may also suffer as a result, as customers may choose to take their business elsewhere if they find it difficult to navigate the town’s streets.

Thirdly, fixing the town’s streets can help to increase property values. Studies have shown that well-maintained roads can increase property values by as much as 20%.

Residents are willing to pay more for homes in areas with good infrastructure, including well-maintained streets.

Finally, fixing the town’s streets is an investment in the town’s future. Wellmaintained roads can last for many years, and they will continue to benefit residents and visitors for years to come. This is especially important in a town like Marblehead, which relies on its historic charm and natural beauty to attract visitors.

In conclusion, the town of Marblehead should prioritize fixing its streets for public safety, the local economy, property values and the town’s future. The cost of repairing the roads may seem daunting, but the benefits of doing so far outweigh the costs. By fixing the streets, Marblehead can continue to be a desirable place to live, work and visit for generations to come.

Alex Bender Pinecliff Drive

Shift the Select Board’s balance of power

To the editor:

There’s a tremendous opportunity to shift the current balance of power on our Select Board by voting for incumbents

Erin Noonan and Alexa Singer (in addition to Bret Murray).

After a string of 3-2 decisions over the past many months, Noonan and Singer remain in the minority on virtually every vote that long-term incumbents perceive as too great a change or not “how we do it” here in Marblehead.

The most recent majority decision of the board is indicative of this 3-2 conflict, with Noonan and Singer the only two members favoring granting the sole remaining liquor license to an established brewpub looking to expand into Marblehead, arguably bringing increased traffic, variety and vitality to the downtown. Their fresh, well-articulated arguments favoring the taproom were in stark contrast to the rigid majority. But this is no surprise. Meeting after meeting, Noonan and Singer continue to try to encourage full board discussion, bring alternate viewpoints and new revenue streams to the table for consideration, and look to

understand the rationale behind processes to properly evaluate board initiatives.

Unfortunately, they have been met with a spectrum of opposition ranging from outright dismissiveness to awkward silence.

We appreciate that they soldier on, committed to asking why and questioning the status quo, not simply for sport or due to a lack of respect for the tenured service of their fellow board members, but because they have eyes wide open about the current challenges facing our town and are trying to spark conversation and public deliberation on creative problem-solving.

Murray attempted the same when he held a board seat years ago, but having also been in the minority, was unable to move the needle on change.

Yet together, these three, smart, informed and passionate candidates are willing to be more agile, more open, more communicative and more responsive to the myriad viewpoints and experiences of this community in their decision-making, not to guarantee a “new” majority voting bloc, but to facilitate and encourage real dialogue about what this community values and how to support and sustain those priorities.

We have much respect for the many years of service represented on the board, but it’s time to see what newer, more forward-thinking candidates can achieve by working together.

Vote Noonan, Singer and Murray on June 20.

Jamie and Meredith

Tedford, Harvard Street

John and Heather

Danforth, Gregory Street

Dave and Lauren Kennedy, Goldthwait Raod

Kathy Hempel, Palmer Avenue

Mark and Kelly Keaney, Roosevelt Avenue

Darcy Mayers, Neptune Road

Mike and Alexia Kearney, Gregory Street

Bill and Renee Keaney, Beverly Avenue

Suzanne Atwood, Casino Road

Carolyn Ryan, Casino Road

Lynn Nadeau, Surf Street

Linda McGlaughlin, Casino Road

Jeanne Lamkin, Devereux Street

Steve Levy, Sagamore Road

Scaffolding around the Marblehead Museum building abutting the Jeremiah Lee Mansion

Voters to choose many town leaders on June 20

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Marblehead voters will go to the polls on Tuesday, June 20, to decide a $2.5 million permanent tax override, along with several hotly-contested races for Select Board, School Committee, Board of Health and more. For a complete election rundown, check out the Current’s 2023 Election Guide at marbleheadcurrent. org/election2023. The Guide includes a tax override calculator to help residents determine the impact of the override on their individual tax bill.

The polls will be open June 20, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. To find your polling place, visit sec. state.ma.us/WhereDoIVoteMA/ WhereDoIVote. For more information, call the Town Clerk’s office at 781-631-0528.

Here’s a quick look at the candidates’ races.

Select Board: Six candidates are battling over five seats. All five incumbents are running: Jackie Belf-Becker, Moses Grader, Erin Noonan, Jim Nye and Alexa Singer. Former Select Board member Bret Murray is hoping to unseat one of them.

School Committee: There is a four-way race for two open seats on the School Committee.

Candidates include Paul Baker, incumbent Sarah Gold, Brian Ota and former School Committee member Jennifer Schaeffner.

Board of Health: Three candidates are vying for one seat.

They are: Thomas McMahon, Dr. Thomas Massaro and former Board of Health member Dr. David Becker. Municipal Light Commission:

the main drivers behind the $2.5 million deficit.

Voters will fill one, threeyear term and one, one-year unexpired term. Incumbent Lisa Wolf is facing former light commissioner Walter Homan for the three-year term. Interim Light Commissioner Adam

Smith and Nathanael Burke are competing for the one-year unexpired term.

Library Board of Trustees: Two Abbot Public Library Board of Trustees seats with three-year terms are open. Incumbent Gary

Amberik is running, along with Katherine Barker and Rose Ann Wheeler McCarthy.

Rec and Parks Commission: Five, one-year terms are open on the Recreation and Parks Commission. Four of the five members of the Recreation and Parks Commission — Linda Rice Collins, Karen Ernst, Rossana Ferrante and Matthew Martin — are running for re-election. Newcomers Shelly Bedrossian and Larry Simpson are vying for the fifth seat.

Housing Authority Board of Trustees: Theresa Tauro is running for the remaining two years of an unexpired term. Other incumbents running for reelection include Moderator Jack Attridge, Assessor John Kelley, Cemetery Commissioner Pam Peterson and Water and Sewer Commissioners Thomas Carroll and Barton Hyte.

million fiscal year budget by Town Meeting in May. These cuts include the following: » 33 school positions, plus programs (freshman sports, middle school world languages) and facility maintenance

Three fire department positions

» A public works position

Two police positions

According to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, Marblehead last passed a general tax override in 2005, adding $2.7 million permanently to the town’s tax base, and has since that time relied on temporary debt-exclusion overrides to fund isolated, oneoff-capital projects and so-called “free cash” to balance the municipal budgets.

“The earlier you address these issues — the less costly it will be in the long run,” said Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer. “If you wait another year, the gap gets bigger.”

Select Board member Jim Nye is the only Select Board member against the override.

“For the past 18 years, the town has paid all its obligations with revenue collected, including negotiated step and cost-ofliving increases, purchased rolling stock and maintained assets with no layoffs,” he said at the League of Women’s Voters Candidates Night. “Most would call that conservative fiscal management.”

A structural deficit extends beyond inflationary pressures and cost drivers, MacInnis argued.

Kezer has said the objective of the override is to stabilize the municipal budget and maintain services in the next fiscal year. This would provide the new finance director, town treasurer and Kezer time to develop a more detailed strategy, he said. MacInnis’ response to the latter promise was pessimistic.

She added, “They never take the time to analyze what is working well, and they certainly never cut spending in an area that has proven to be ineffective or no longer necessary.”

Mixed feelings

schools, need to budget each year starting from zero and build a budget based on what is needed.”

Walking around town recently one could find a mixture of positions on the big ballot question. “I’m not in favor of cutting teachers,” said Arnie Cohen on State Street. “Education is expensive, but ignorance costs even more.”

Nearby, sitting on a wooden bench at Tucker’s Wharf, Craig Davis argued — in part — the timing for a permanent override is off.

“We’ve got a ton of people hurting in town due to inflationary pressures. We’re coming out of a pandemic,” he said, adding that fiscal irresponsibility arguments carry some merit in his eyes.

However, the free cash pool, contributing $10.6 million to the current $100 million fiscal budget, will shrink by $2.1 million next year. The town doesn’t have enough to cover all its contractual obligations,

“Spending more than you take in causes a ‘structural deficit,’” she said. “Simply put, the town leaders have not lived within our approved budgets. They continue to spend more, then demand an override to support their overspending.”

“We will all have to wait and see what happens,” said MacInnis. “Presently, they attempt to budget by keeping everything the same, regardless of huge declining numbers of students or the possibility that money spent in one area might be more effectively used in another.”

Override opponents believe the Prop. 2 1/2 law serves a purpose.

“If the override passes it will be overspending as usual. Nothing will change, and we will have yet another override next year,” said MacInnis.

“And it doesn’t seem like the request is going to be a one-off situation.”

Want to learn more about the June 20 election? Check out the Current’s 2023 election guide at marbleheadcurrent.org/ election2023/, where taxpayers can also use the newspaper’s override calculator. Church.

“Also, writing our own Torah scroll in 2015 for the temple’s 50th anniversary,” he said.

Meyer, who taught himself the guitar at age 14, has released three studio albums of Jewish music with Jon Nelson, who performs with Meyer at temple services.

There were what Meyer called “watershed moments,” too, like leading an interfaith vigil at Seaside Park after 9/11.

Over the decades, Meyer estimates that he led 1200 b’nai mitzvah services (for Jewish children turning 13), as well as several hundred each of babynamings, weddings and funerals.

Challenges & opportunities

Meyer reflected recently about challenges that became opportunities over the decades.

“We had to reimagine how the temple operates in many ways, including funding,” he explained.

“We were the first synagogue in the area to move to a pledge model and we’re never going back.”

In an effort to boost membership, Emanu-El decided in 2014 to scrap its annual dues and encourage people to donate what they could afford. It has been a resounding success, Meyer said.

The temple also reworked its programming model by creating a more grass-roots approach. Meyer chose to lead

his “congregation not based on what I think people need, but on what they want,” he said.

And one thing members wanted was Meyer to sing and play guitar more.

“It reignited a spark for me,” Meyer said with a smile. “Music transformed the congregation from a passive style of worship to a very participatory style. Attendance grew immediately – not just in services but in programs, social action, education. Engagement has gone up in a transformative way.”

‘Most menschy guy’

Claudia Kaufman and her family joined Temple Emanu-El nearly 20 years ago when they

moved to town. She quickly became involved in the temple and eventually served as president. She and Meyer have worked together closely over the years.

“He’s just a good guy,” she said. “He’s the most menschy guy you’re ever going to meet. And he’s very knowledgeable, very scholarly. He always put the congregation first.”

Kaufman says Meyer’s successor will have big shoes to fill, but “it’s an exciting opportunity for the temple to develop in new directions and provide new services. There are some congregants who have only ever had Rabbi Meyer as their rabbi.”

“Marblehead’s leadership will believe that Proposition 2 ½ no longer applies to Marblehead. The town, and especially the

What’s next?

Meyer says after June 30, he’ll take a “gap year to catch my breath, step back and not move from this to another job. I want to discover ‘What do I miss?

What am I longing to do?’”

He knows the year will include study, creativity (more music), fitness and community involvement.

“I’ve already spoken to town leaders about how I can contribute to the town. I want to

give back.”

Meyer is staying on at Emanu-El as a rabbi emeritus, but it will be a low-key position, he says, to give his successor the room to create his own leadership style. An interim rabbi will serve for one year as the temple searches for Meyer’s full-time replacement.

Meyer’s last official day is Friday, June 30, when he will lead a Shabbat service.

The battle over a $2.5 million permanent tax override is playing out on lawns across town.

Rabbi David J. Meyer arrived in Marblehead in 1992. He and his wife, Marla, raised two sons here.

Music is a big part of Meyer’s practice. Here he is teaching chords to a boy on a trip to Belarus.

Meyer is a big baseball fan and read his own essays about the sport on NPR’s program ‘Only a Game.’

Safe Routes to School honors Glover

BY SUPERINTENDENT JOHN BUCKEY

Good people of Marblehead Public Schools:

Tonight [Friday, June 9] is graduation! This is our opportunity to honor the Marblehead High School Class of 2023 and to celebrate the culmination of the Marblehead Public Schools experience.

Tonight at commencement, I will talk about MPS aspiring to be the gold standard in public education and how the Class of 2023 has exemplified this through their numerous contributions and achievements academically; athletically; in the fine, applied and performing arts; and in service to our community.

This week has been filled with exciting events: National French Honor Society induction, prom at the House of Blues and the annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony.

Today, seniors did walks through the various schools across MPS. It is touching to see

the wide eyes of our youngest learners looking up at the graduates in admiration and the teary eyes of teachers and staff looking on with pride.

Tonight is the community celebration of these remarkable graduates. I look forward to seeing our families, friends, alumni and community members at 6 p.m. at MHS.

Town voting

Tuesday, June 20 is election day in Marblehead. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. There

are several important things for voters to consider. Question 1 is the proposed override for the town and schools. And there are four candidates for two seats on the School Committee.

Remember to vote!

Superintendent

Coffee, June 19

I will be hosting a coffee on Monday, June 19 at 8:30 a.m. in the Brown School cafeteria. I hope families and community members will join me to discuss the 2022-23 school year in review.

Juneteenth The Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination, in conjunction with the Northshore Juneteenth Association, organizes the annual Marblehead Juneteenth Ceremony.

MHS teacher Candice Sliney and Glover teacher Diane Gora, along with MHS student representatives Celia Sliney and Helina Tadesse, coordinate the event. The ceremony will take place Wednesday, June 14 on the lawn at Abbot Hall at 4:30 p.m. Please see the this flier for additional event details and information.

Friends Soiree

Mark your calendars! The Friends of Marblehead Public Schools Summer Soiree is back! On Saturday, June 17, join Friends to raise a glass and celebrate the innovative and inspiring grants they have funded for our schools this year. These grants and the enriching opportunities they bring to all our students are made possible only because of the overwhelming generosity of our Marblehead community. So come kick off the summer with them. Head to their website to purchase tickets.

See you on Saturday, June 17 at 6:30 in the evening for what is sure to be a great time had by all!

Winner, winner — Glover School

June 8 at the Safe Routes to School awards ceremony held at the State House, Glover was recognized as the Exemplary Program Winner for the Northeast.

The award is for setting a great example by crafting a new or exhibiting Safe Routes to School Program through innovation, creativity and innovation.

This year, we participated in Walk, Bike and Roll Days, Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, an arrival and dismissal observation, a Bike Train Route Map and next week a Bike Rodeo for Bike Safety.

State Rep. Jenny Armini presented Glover with a certificate of recognition for their efforts. Glover parents Matthew Harrington and Mark Holland spearheaded these efforts and attended to help accept the award.

Congratulations, Principal Doran and the Glover School team for excellence in leadership.

35 inducted into Spanish Honor Society at MHS

Officers for 2023 Alish Moran, Celia Sliney, Amanda Sorkin, Talia Schwartz, Cate Honos, Zoe Spungin and Cate Trautman recently organized the spring induction of 35 new members to the Marblehead High School Spanish Honor Society, Chapter Ojalá.

With over 600 students enrolled in Spanish at MHS, language study is thriving, and the honor society is growing, according to the co-advisors of the honor society, veteran MHS teachers Laura Álvarez and Candice Sliney.

The society is sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

To be inducted, students must be sophomores with

Contract

From P. A1

Mathers told the Currrent that typically he, Fox and Buckey work together to set agendas, and the three meet a few days before each meeting.

“From a process standpoint, I usually share a formative email to Dr. Buckey and to Chairwoman Fox prior to our agenda planning meeting,” he said.

Mathers’ term ends this month, and he is not seeking reelection.

Gold, who is up for reelection, explained why she asked for the contract discussion.

“In the past two years, we have always considered either a contract extension or additional compensation after Dr. Buckey’s evaluation was complete,” she said. “It hadn’t been talked about, which is why I asked about it as an agenda item in a subsequent meeting. I was looking to clarify what our process would be.”

In June 2022, the School Committee voted 4-1 to give Buckey a 2.5% raise on the same night that they voted on his evaluation.

“On the question of contract extension, I defer to the School Committee to proceed however they see fit,” Buckey told the Current on June 9. “On the two years remaining on my current

a minimum of two years of Spanish language, maintain high academic standards, participate in community service and be

contract, we have important work to do, and that is where my focus remains.”

The report card

Gold made the request to discuss Buckey’s contract at the board’s next regular meeting on June 6, the same night that the School Committee discussed Buckey’s annual performance review. The group settled on a “proficient” rating, according to Fox.

In their individual evaluations, committee members split, with Gold, Mathers and Meagan Taylor giving Buckey higher marks, and Fox and Alison Taylor delivering a less-rosy review.

Mathers gave Buckey several “exemplary” and “exceeded goals” marks in his evaluation.

“MPS is in need of stability,” Mathers wrote. “We have had seven superintendents in the last 15 years. This is an untenable period of instability and detrimental to MPS. Dr. Buckey should be proud of having navigated a very difficult first three years at MPS in the face of criticism from some stakeholders. Some of this criticism includes ad hominem attacks, which are unwarranted.”

Meagan Taylor gave Buckey “significant progress” marks for Student Learning and District Improvement goals.

“Dr. Buckey is a fierce advocate for, and works diligently to provide, a safe and supportive environment for all students,”

positive members of the school community. The society’s role is to promote language study at MHS

and beyond as well as fundraise for charity.

“Our students recognize the importance of languages in our

global economy and strive to be global citizens, and the society reinforces those values,” said Álvarez and Sliney.

when required due to unforeseen circumstances. In regards to two-way communication, I would like to see a greater focus on the message being conveyed rather than who is conveying the message.”

Alison Taylor also gave Buckey many “needs improvement” marks in goals including Communication and Fiscal Systems.

she wrote. “Dr. Buckey is also an active and engaged member of the school community, often seen in classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds and at afterschool events. Additionally, Dr. Buckey has developed positive, collaborative working relationships with town officials and community groups such as the Rotary and Sustainable Marblehead.

Gold wrote in her evaluation:

“Overall, I rate Dr. Buckey’s performance as solidly proficient. There are many places where I believe his leadership skills are exemplary and of course there are areas for continued improvement as well. Although many challenges

lay ahead for the Marblehead Public Schools, there is much to celebrate as well.”

Fox gave Buckey several “needs improvement” marks in the areas of Instructional Leadership, Management Operations, Family and Community Engagement and Professional Culture.

“I have seen Dr. Buckey improve this year and commend him on that. I also see areas of growth potential that remain,” Fox wrote. “Moving forward I would like to see Dr. Buckey develop his communication skills further so he is communicating independently more and relying on outside communications support only

“I feel that district-wide there needs to be more done to foster a trusting, two-way relationship with the superintendent,” she wrote. “A relationship where everyone hears the same thing and that the message or tone doesn’t change based on the participants. Every individual, even those with dissenting views, should feel comfortable participating in the conversation. This should happen with zero regard or fear of retribution or retaliation.”

Responding to the evaluations, Buckey said, “I appreciate the time that each member took individually to provide feedback and for the composite evaluation that they compiled. I’m grateful for the acknowledgement of our many accomplishments this year, and I also see value in identifying areas where there are opportunities for continued growth and improvement.”

The School Committee is expected to vote to formally ratify its “proficient” review at its June 15 meeting.

State Rep. Jenny Armini, far right, presents representatives of the Glover School with a certificate of recognition for their efforts that led to the school being named Exemplary Program Winner for the Northeast during the Safe Routes to School awards ceremony held at the State House June 8.

COURTESY PHOTOS

LEFT: Thirty-five new members were recently inducted into the Marblehead High School Spanish Honor Society, Chapter Ojalá. RIGHT:Officers for 2023 of the Marblehead High School Spanish Honor Society, Chapter Ojalá, are Alish Moran, Celia Sliney, Amanda Sorkin, Talia Schwartz, Cate Honos, Zoe Spungin and Cate Trautman.

Superintendent Buckey’s contract was expected to be added to the School Committee’s last meeting before the town election.

Stalled road funding bill takes off-ramp to private talks

BY CHRIS LISINSKI

Lawmakers have been

unable to reach informal agreement on an annual local road and bridge

funding bill for more than two months, and now they’ll ask a formal negotiating team to try and unjam the process. The House and Senate on Thursday created a conference committee to iron out a final compromise between two mostly-similar $350 million versions that each branch approved in March. Reps. William Straus of Mattapoisett, Brian Murray of Milford and Steve Howitt of Seekonk will represent the House in the talks opposite Sens. Brendan Crighton of Lynn, Paul Mark of Becket and Patrick O’Connor of Weymouth. Straus and Crighton regularly work together as co-chairs of the Transportation Committee. Both versions of the legislation (H 3547 / S 2375) would allocate $200 million to the Chapter 90 program that reimburses cities and towns for road and bridge maintenance, plus authorize another $150 million for transportation-related infrastructure grants. Most of the spending appeared to be in alignment across the two bills, though the House sought to direct $25 million toward an existing grant program for work on non-federally aided state-numbered routes and municipal roadways while the Senate proposed prioritizing $25 million for use by communities with “low population density.”

Freeentryandfood,opentothepublic Donationsarewelcomeuponarrival

BASEBALL

Westfield halts great ride

MHS stuns Hopkinton, but season ends in Sweet 16

BY JOE McCONNELL

After upsetting fourthseeded Hopkinton in the Division 2 Round of 32 state tournament, the Marblehead Baseball Magicians (7-6 in the Northeastern Conference, 12-8 overall in the regular season, 2-1 in the postseason) went a little bit further west to play a Sweet 16 game against the Westfield Bombers (13-8, 20th seed) at Bullens Field on June 8, only to lose the close battle, 4-1.

The Bombers then lost their Elite 8 game to WhitmanHanson (19-4, fifth seed), 5-0.

“We played a tough game but needed to play near perfect baseball to beat them,” said coach Mike Giardi after the Westfield game. “Four infield hits and some walks, plus a couple of errors, proved costly for us. On the other side of the field, Westfield was flawless and was able to capitalize on some key situations that led to two runs in the first and one each in the fourth and fifth for added insurance. But overall, we had a great run.”

Ian Maude pitched the first five innings against Westfield, giving up seven hits, three walks and four runs, but only three were earned. He fanned five. Ace closer Chris Cannuscio then threw a perfect sixth inning, striking out the side in another dominating performance.

The Magicians did trim the deficit in half in the third, when they scored their lone run of the game. The visitors were credited with only three hits, led by Maude with a double. Riley Schmitt knocked in that lone Marblehead run with a single.

ALL-STATE MEET

Challenged by weather, Magicians show their mettle

Freshman 2-miler O’Connell, 4x100 quartet lead teammates to top six

BY JOE McCONNELL

It was a successful two days for the Marblehead High spring track athletes during the annual All-State Championship Meet at Fitchburg State University on June 1 and 3.

Leading the way for the Magicians once again was freshman Marri O’Connell, who on June 1 finished sixth in the 2-mile under adverse conditions with temperatures in the 90s.

“The 2-mile is already a tough race, but add in 90-degree temps and a cloudless sky all afternoon, and you have very, very tough racing conditions,” said coach William Herlihy.

Herlihy continued, “It turned out to be one of the most tenacious races of Marri’s short, yet very impressive career, and in so doing she still added another medal to her growing collection by coming in sixth with a sensational time of 11:24.71.”

Herlihy added, “Marri held her ground to lead the pack of runners in six of the eight-lap race, which included multiple (athletes) with seed times in the 10s. Only one runner in both the boys and girls race finished faster than their seed time, which speaks to the conditions. But Marri’s resolve helped carry her through it. She will now cap off her historic season by participating in the 2-mile against the best freshmen in

Passing endurance test with flying colors

Junior Hersey finishes fifth in North, seventh in state in decathlon

BY JOE McCONNELL

Marblehead High junior boys track star Alex Hersey finished fifth in the Massachusetts State Track Coaches Association North Decathlon held over two days on June 5 and 6 in Weston. Hersey accumulated 5,495 points, which is the second most in school history.

The first day featured the 100, shot put, high jump, long jump and 400.

“Going into it, we knew Alex would be average or better than average on the first day with his specialty in the long jump and shot put,” said coach Nolan Raimo.

The first day of competition opened up with the 100-meter dash, and Hersey ended up 31st out of 79 participants with a time of 12.15. He earned 622 points in this event for his efforts.

“Frankly, we expected a sub-11 time, but it was downpouring for 20 minutes before the start of the dash, and Alex, being placed in the 12th and final heat, was ‘iced,’ and as a result came out of the block slower than usual,” said Raimo.

Hersey (34-1) then continued on to the shot put. He finished 15th with 508 points, which was about 3 feet off his personal best of 37 feet.

“Once again, the downpours returned when Alex got into the circle, which weakened his grip on the shot, and the circle was also a bit slippery,” said Raimo. “We projected Alex as a top 10 shot putter in this meet, so landing 15th wasn’t ideal, but Alex

remained optimistic to keep scoring points.”

The Marblehead junior went on to the high jump, and he cleared 5-4 before running out of attempts –there was a six-jump maximum – at 5-6.

“With another jump or two, I think Alex would’ve cleared it, but 5-4 matches his personal best,” Raimo said. “It placed him 13th overall in this meet with

ABOVE: Marblehead’s Drake Wyman slides safely into third against Hopkinton. RIGHT: Marblehead pitcher Chris Cannuscio, left, and catcher David Bartram celebrate after recording the final out in a 8-4 upset victory over fourth seed Hopkinton.

CURRENT PHOTOS/KEN MCGAGH

Marblehead’s Riley Schmitt (7) is congratulated by teammate Chris DeWitt after getting knocked in by Bodie Bartram in the fifth inning during a MIAA Division 2 Round of 32 tournament game against Hopkinton June 5.

COURTESY PHOTO/CAT PIPER

Marblehead High junior Alex Hersey, shown competing in the 110-meter hurdles during a regular season meet, turned in a superb performance during the North decathlon to finish fifth, and seventh in the entire state. The annual endurance test took place over two days on June 5 and 6 in Weston.

BASEBALL, P. A22

Seniors provide lessons that should last

Young Magicians ready to step up after a season of on-field learning

BY JOE McCONNELL

There’s no doubt that the many young players on the Marblehead High girls lacrosse team (2-6 in the NEC Dunn Division, 6-7 in the NEC, 6-13 overall) have grown up considerably as varsity players while experiencing all aspects of the sport on this level. But they will never forget their first state tournament game against Division 2 host Ashland in a preliminary round game.

It took two days and two long bus rides to the central part of the state to complete the game that was interrupted by Mother Nature’s thunder and lightning followed by torrential rain. The Magicians might have lost the game, 10-5, but their coach Annie Madden could not have been prouder of them.

“Playing an opponent on back-to-back days in the state tournament (is certainly rare), and it definitely wasn’t easy, but we still played the same way we did all season long with both determination and heart,” Madden said.

Madden added, “We fought to the last whistle all season long, and nothing changed on that Friday and Saturday night (June 2 and 3). This is what the coaching staff and I are most proud of, and will always remember about our 2023 season.”

Madden credited the seniors for keeping the team focused.

“They were always driving us to get better in order to make sure that we reached our last

20-20

goal of making and competing in the state tournament,” Madden said. “Some of our best practices were toward the end of the season, and that showed that our captains — Saylor Caruso (five ground balls) and Sydney Langton (50 goals, 12 assists, 13 ground balls in 19 games) — as well as our other senior leaders — Isabelle Ferrante (11 goals, 7 assists),

Tamia Johnson (1 goal), goalie

Kate Santesanio (387 minutes, 0.5 goals against average) and

Lucy Wales (34 goals, 12 assists in 19 games) — were all-in from Day 1.”

Losing is never easy, Madden noted.

“But knowing that we were losing against strong teams and still finished up as the 22nd best team in the final Division 2 power rankings (at the end of the regular season) kept us moving forward,” she said. “And now our younger players can take away from our seniors that it’s not just one

game that makes us great, but it’s all the small moments from March to June that make us who we are.”

Sophomores Ramona Gillett (33 goals, five assists, 18 ground balls in 19 games) and Maddie Forbes (21 goals, 14 assists, 19 ground balls in 19 games) were the third and fourth top scorers on the team this year. Their classmate

Caitlyn Ryan collected eight goals and two assists in just 16 games.

Junior Caroline Scroope had eight goals and 10 assists in 19 games.

Sophomore Gretchen Smith contributed eight goals and three assists in 17 games. There will be 16 players — now with varsity experience — returning next year, looking to take what they had learned this year from the graduating seniors to make that jump in the power rankings to possibly host a postseason game or two while also avoiding that long bus trip to play in a state tournament game.

Boys lacrosse heads to Cape for Elite 8 still perfect

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehe ad High boys lacrosse team recorded its 20th straight win this spring to remain perfect on the season after upending Milton (10-10), the 23rd seed, 16-8 in a Division 2 Round of 16 state tournament game at Piper Field on June 8.

The Magicians, the seventh seed, were scheduled to head to the Cape for a 4 p.m. Elite 8 game against host Nauset (17-3, second seed) Monday afternoon, June 12.

The Warriors, who play in the Atlantic Coast League, defeated Silver Lake Regional (8-10,

TENNIS

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead High boys tennis team (16-4, ninth seed) had to wait a day before playing its Sweet 16 match against host Belmont (13-7, eighth seed) on June 7. Unfortunately, the young Magicians ended up losing to the host team, 5-0, but not before they put up a terrific fight, according to coach Elisabeth Foukal.

“All five matches were close, with two of them going to three sets,” Foukal noted. “Junior

Mika Garber was up against the seventh-seeded player in the state (Belmont senior Alek Karagozyan) but still managed to play him evenly up until leg cramps had him struggling to walk. But he nevertheless got up and finished the match, losing in consecutive competitive straight sets, 6-4, 6-3.”

Foukal continued, “Jost Eggebrecht then left it all on the court in second singles after rallying from behind in the second set to win, 7-5. He was trailing at the time, 4-1.

18th seed) in their Sweet 16 game, 20-7. They also defeated Wakefield (7-13, 31st seed) 17-4 in the Round of 32 to begin the postseason.

After beating Boston Latin, 11-5, in the Round of 32, the Marblehead boys were comfortably in front of Milton by a 9-0 count at halftime last Thursday, June 8. The Wildcats went on the attack to score four times in the third quarter, but the deficit was still six heading into the final period, 10-4.

Baxter Jennings, who was superb on the midfield face-offs, led his teammates on offense

with six goals and two assists. As his scholastic career is coming to a close, Connor Cronin, who was a critical factor in the football Magicians’ quest for procuring the program’s first-ever football title on the state level in 2021, made more history against the Wildcats by breaking the school’s all-time single-season scoring record. Cronin was credited with one goal and five assists in the first half, and on his last assist to Jennings with just over two minutes left on the clock he had his 118th point, six better than Brooks Tyrrell, the previous

record holder. He has now set a new standard for excellence for future Magicians to shoot for throughout the coming years.

But Cronin still wants to bring home to Marblehead another state championship, and he’s only three more wins away from getting that job done. His coach, John Wilkens, certainly won’t bet against it.

“(Cronin) sees a lot of things out there on the field that many don’t see, which goes to show that he has a lot of lacrosse IQ,” the coach said.

Wilkens added, “He obviously has had a fantastic season so far.

He’s just a workhorse at both ends of the field. That makes him a true, competitive leader for us.”

Cam Waldman was also one of the leading offensive contributors with three goals and two assists. Gio Garibotto, Carter Laramie and Charlie Grenier chipped in with two goals apiece against Milton. Grenier also had one assist. Eliot Pluss set up one score as well. Maniaci was sharp once again in goal, making 15 saves in the game, and at least a couple of those stops were from pointblank range in the first half.

But Belmont’s Charlie Osborn rebounded to win the third set, 6-2. He also won the first set, 7-5.”

In third singles, Matthew Sherf faced a very formidable opponent in Julian Wong, and he fought to the very end, only to lose, 6-4, 6-2.

The first doubles team of Etan Farfel and Jayden Janock played their hearts out against senior Ben Packard and junior Ben Trout, only to fall in three sets, according to Foukal. The Marblehead tandem won the first set, 6-3, before losing the second set in a tiebreaker, 9-7, and also the third set, 6-1.

Jimmy King and Leo Winocour played their best second doubles match to date, Foukal said. They were trailing 5-1 in the first set before staging a comeback to tie it at five. They eventually lost that set to Henry Moriarty and Soyam Pakharel, 7-5, followed by the second set, 6-1.

Sophomores Anthony Vizy and Quinn Fletcher recorded a subvarsity win over their Belmont

counterparts, 6-0, the visitors only triumph that day against the Marauders. Sophomores Austin Bacon and Ben Zaltsman lost their sub-varsity match, 6-1.

“Overall, it was a great season, and in this match, I was so proud of how well we competed against Belmont to go along with the sportsmanship we displayed throughout it,” said Foukal.

Foukal’s squad started the postseason with a 5-0 win over Oliver Ames in the Round of 32. Belmont defeated Wakefield by the same score in that same round, and then after beating the Magicians they dropped a 5-0 decision to Duxbury (21-1, top seed) in the Elite 8.

Chieftains complete season sweep

The Marblehead girls tennis team (14-6, 20th seed) fell to Northeastern Conference rival Masconomet (18-0, fourth seed) in its Sweet 16 matchup indoors at Bass River, 5-0, on June 5. The Chieftains were able to beat Marblehead for the third

time this season to advance to the Elite 8, where they defeated Minnechaug (17-3, fifth seed), 4-1.

The Magicians began the postseason by edging host Milton (11-6, 13th seed) 3-2 in the Round of 32.

“I’m extremely proud of this team and what they have accomplished,” said coach Tracy Ackerman. “They were able to beat a higher seed in Milton under some stressful circumstances after first singles player Pauline Geissler fainted following her match due to the heat, but then they were able to refocus as a team to get that win.”

Ackerman continued, “They then knew what they were up against in the match against Masco, but they decided the goal was to improve and win more games than they did in their last match against them. For the most part, they accomplished this.”

That allowed the team to finish the season on an upbeat note,

according to the coach.

“We now wish Masco all the best in its quest to repeat as state champions,” Ackerman said.

Ackerman commended her team’s sportsmanship throughout the season, calling it “really impressive.”

“In the season-ending match against Masco, they were hugging and congratulating each other for winning a game or two,” she said. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Geissler lost to Kendall Skulley in first singles, 0-6, 0-6. Andrea Potvin fell to Nina Klink in second singles, 1-6, 0-6. Charly Cooper dropped a 0-6, 1-6 decision to Teagan Skulley in third singles.

CURRENT PHOTO/KEN MCGAGH

Marblehead girls’ lacrosse players mob junior Caroline Scroope, far right, after Scroope’s first half goal during a MIAA Division 2 girls’ lacrosse Round of 32 tournament game against Ashland at Ashland High School June 2.

Marblehead Current celebrates one-year anniversary

BY MELISSA STACEY

The following is an interview with Virginia Buckingham, president of the Marblehead Current, conducted by Discover Marblehead. To learn more about the independent, nonprofit newspaper, visit marbleheadcurrent.org.

Tell us about the Marblehead Current and how it got started. The idea for launching the Current was borne out of the financial decision by Gannett Co., the media giant which owns the Marblehead Reporter, to strip our beloved local paper of almost all its local content and staff, turning it into a shell of itself. Former Marblehead Reporter journalists and editors got together and decided they wanted to fill that void. Other community leaders got involved and the Current was launched online in June of 2022, right before the town elections. We’re coming up on our first anniversary!

Who are the people involved with the Marblehead Current? We have folks with deep experience in journalism and in covering Marblehead specifically. Kris Olson was the editor of the Marblehead Reporter for 14 years and serves as the contributing editor. Will Dowd, our community editor, started his journalism career at the Reporter and was the editor of the Cambridge Chronicle. He’s a fixture at important Marblehead events.

Leigh Blander, the associate editor and senior reporter, has significant experience in TV, radio and print. Joe McConnell, on the sports beat, has been covering local sports for 25 years and has won many awards. We have numerous contributors and volunteers, too, many wellknown to Marbleheaders. Our other founders and co-chairs are Ed Bell who retired as New England bureau chief of the Associated Press after a 50-year career in print and broadcast journalism and Jessica Barnett, who is on the faculty in the Communications Department at Salem State University. My background is primarily in state government, where I had a keen appreciation of the importance of the media in shining a spotlight on issues while working by the sides of two governors. I also was deputy editorial page editor of the

Boston Herald and I couldn’t be happier to be back in the mix of a newspaper’s mission. There are so many more folks involved, I can’t name them all. The energy and enthusiasm have been off the charts. What brings us together is that we believe local news is such a critical part of what makes a community.

Why was a non-profit business model chosen for the paper? In the past several years, more than 2500 newspapers have closed in the United States. Their closure was driven by a for-profit model that is no longer sustainable. We want the Current to be around for the long haul. We believe the local control, with no profit incentive, will allow us to focus on delivering great journalism — or as Ed Bell likes to say, to be “the best damn news source we can.”

What sets you apart from other newspapers in Marblehead? We are the only print newsroom located in Marblehead. We think the quality of the journalism speaks for itself. We were so proud to bring the Town Meeting Guide to voters and to partner with the League of Women Voters and MHTV to make sure people were fully informed. Now we are presenting our Election Guide (marbleheadcurrent.org/ election2023) with the same partners. In addition, we don’t have a parent news company driving our decisions. All our decisions are made with the principle that we are performing a public service, not trying to turn a profit. And because we’re non-profit, all our financial resources are invested right back into the newsroom and our mission of delivering trusted news.

As the Marblehead Current’s President, what would you like to achieve with the paper over the next year? The whole team — the newsroom journalists and editors, the board and all our volunteers just met for our first retreat to talk about just that! We have so

many exciting plans to expand our news and event coverage, and share it everywhere our readers are — in print, online and on social media. We just launched an out-of-town subscription service so we can broaden our reach and make sure Marbleheaders, or simply those who love our town, wherever they are, can stay close to what’s happening in the community. We’re so happy to be the presenting media sponsor of the Festival of Arts and in the coming year we want to broaden our role as a convener of events focused on newsrelated programming and issues of town interest. To do all that though, we must significantly increase our donor base. Our funding comes from individuals through donations, as well as

from advertising.

Nonprofit newsrooms like ours are picking up steam all over the nation, allowing communities access to free, independent news from experienced journalists. But the model doesn’t work without your support. Since it’s our first birthday, we are launching a fundraising campaign this month to celebrate the anniversary of our first story. We’re so grateful to our generous advertisers and donors who made our first, landmark year possible.

Now is the time to fund Year Two with a tax-deductible donation to the Current. For a limited time, our Board of Directors will match any first-time donation of $20 or more with an additional

$10, up to $2000 total. Visit marbleheadcurrent.org/donate to pledge your support.

We like to say two newspapers (The Messenger and The Reporter) covered Marblehead for the last 150 years and now we want to provide the best local journalism has to offer for the next 150! We can only do that with your help.

The business spotlight is a weekly feature published in partnership with Discover Marblehead. Discover Marblehead is dedicated to the promotion of our majestic seaside town of Marblehead. Our mission is to highlight local businesses, tourism, community events and attractions through social media, email marketing and community outreach. To learn more, visit discovermhd.com.

Learn about what’s next for local 2023 graduates

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Wondering where Marblehead’s 2023 graduates will be going after receiving their diplomas? The Marblehead Current put that question to Marblehead High School guidance counselor Christine Chaykowski. Her answer was diverse.

Some students have opted to take a gap year, pursue military service, or enter employment. Others plan to receive on-thejob training or attend trade schools. The majority, however, will be seeking higher education.

“This class has achieved a gold standard in academics. Four are National Merit Scholars... 84% of students will continue their education at two-year, four-year, or post-graduate institutions, after submitting nearly 2000 applications,” said

Superintendent John Buckey during the June 9 graduation.

“We are honored to have one member of the class pursuing military service.”

The Current transformed Chaykowski’s list of colleges and universities — where members of the Class of 2023 will be attending next fall — into a Google Map.

The list of accepted offers features a diverse set of 101 state and private institutions. Some of these schools, located from New Orleans to Seattle, San Francisco to Tampa, may not be familiar to everyone.

In total, just under 245 colleges and universities, including Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, and the University of London, extended acceptances to Marblehead High School’s Class of 2023. Explore our Google Map at bit.ly/43yTSTV.

A Google Map depicting the colleges and universities that Marblehead High School’s Class of 2023 will be attending next fall, based on a list provided by guidance counselor Christine Chaykowski.

Marblehead Current Board President Virginia Buckingham speaks to the team at a recent retreat. She held a brick as she talked about building on foundations in the community.

The 2023 valedictory address

BY YASEN KADIYSKI COLÓN

Ladies and gentlemen, faculty, family and friends, School Committee and members of the Class of 2023: Today, we stand at the pinnacle of our academic journey, the culmination of years of hard work, dedication and relentless pursuit of knowledge. As we gather here, I am filled with a mixture of emotions — pride, gratitude, excitement and perhaps a tinge of apprehension. But most of all, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

While all of that is definitely true, as Mr. Ryan and Mr. Moloney could probably tell you, those words are not mine. That opening paragraph was written by ChatGPT. I remember reading an article a couple years ago about a girl who built a robot to do her homework for her. At the time it seemed impressive; she built it herself, so of course she deserved to be excused from her algebra.

Now, we all have that robot, just a few keystrokes away.

AI has changed the world, giving us recipes and gift ideas, crafting apologies for celebrities and, of course, writing our English essays. That paragraph I just read is grammatically correct, fairly well-written and consistent with my beliefs.

It also lacks depth, and is devoid of emotion. We live in a world where an increasing number of jobs are being taken by computers. We see it everywhere, from Amazon’s warehouse machines to Marty, the spill-detecting robot in Stop and Shop. AI will certainly continue this trend, and that is a scary thought. However, Class of 2023, this does not worry me. Our class is filled with the one thing an algorithm cannot replicate: personality. A computer can’t laugh like we

can, can’t cry like we can, can’t find comfort in each other like we can. This is what we offer the world; the complex and varying personalities of our class. When it comes to productivity, we can never be more efficient than a machine. It is our personalities that differentiate us, make us who we are and have shaped our past, from Marblehead High School, to our future, wherever that might take us. Everyone’s journey is different, but no matter where you’re from, or where you’re

headed, the past four years and our time in Marblehead have helped shape all of us into the people we are today.

I don’t know how many of you know this, but Cate and I are actually both from Seattle. I don’t remember much from where I was born. It hasn’t felt like home in a long time. But the things I do remember weren’t big or grand experiences. I don’t remember going up the Space Needle for the first time.

I remember the little things about the city where I was born. The Starbucks a couple houses down where my parents would go get coffee in the mornings. The park we lived next to, with its towering trees and its bright green swings and the taste of the chai tea in its colorful box I often had after coming back. Then we moved here. The little moments shifted, became summers of wind and salt at Children’s Island or the Crocker Park dock, and ice cream and frozen yogurt at Terry’s and Orange Leaf. My winters are filled with memories of sledding at Seaside and Gatchells, and climbing mountains of snow in fourth grade when it seemingly snowed every other day. Then we entered high school, and they changed again. Looking back on the past four years, we feel the big moments the most. They’ll be what we remember. The Super Bowl win. Proms. A

GRADUATION

On Friday, June 9,

Marblehead Public Schools graduated 220 members of its Class of 2023. Here is a list of graduates:

Alexander James Ahearn

Matthew Thomas Ahearn

Jacob Lev Aizanman

Lauren Marie Allain

Moises Davian Amadis

James Parker Steel Anderson

Jack Henry Aneshansley

Andrea Valerio Angius

Samuel Frank Annese

Madeleine Grace

Antunes

Errol Timothy

Apostolopoulos

Grace Campbell Arnold

Mark Edmund Babineau

Armani Junior Baez

Jones

David Leo Bartram

Sofia Noel Bathurst

Gabriel Alexander Bayramian

Adam Brian Bedrossian

Julia Marie Bender

Nathalya Tallulah

Benjamin

Phineas Fade Ellis

Bennett

Katherine Cecile Bickell

Wyatt Bradley Blum

Anna Elizabeth Bobowski

Sara Bosio

Massimo Giuseppe

Bottari

Samuel Joseph Braginsky

Caroline Mae Brennan

Harrison Louis Brock

Cole Alexander Brooks

Emma Isabella Burbage

Elise Patricia Burdge

Benjamin Patrick Burns

Emma Shalane Callaghan

Sean Treacy Calnan

Michael Tucker Carlson

Saylor Colby Caruso

Isabella Rae Cataldo

Samantha Isabelle Clock

Anna Hartney Coleman

Griffen Christofer Collins

Yasen Kadiyski Colón

Charly Katelyn Cooper

Tyrone Jalen

Countrymon

Piper Mackenzie Crane

Connor William Cronin

Camden Flynn Crosby

Vanessa Marie Cruz

Barbara Chloe Joy Curtis

Harrison Colby Curtis

Siya Teresa Curtis

Seth Jacob Cushinsky

Grace Jacqueline Cuzner

Giorgia Dalla Valle

Alexander Gilmor

Danforth

Claire Le Davis

Aven Philip Denbow

Miles Anthony Deriggi

Kendall Marie Devlin

David Di Costanzo

Collin Matthias Dillon

Dylan Thomas Drake

Giorgio Duse

Isaac Lyndan Dyer

Lily Echchouini

Camille Susanne Egan

Luke James Emmanuel

Christopher James

English

Elizabeth Ann Erskine

Naomi Teresa Fallon

Isabelle Jane Ferrante

Luca Pietro Ferro

William Jennings

Finnegan

Ava Gabrielle Flynn

Camilla Foglia

Angelique Juliana

Forcucci

Max Michael Fresolone

Halle Jaclyn Gallo

Zoe Amelia Gast

Anita Marie Gaunt

Summer Elizabeth

Genovese

Lily Madison Gerson

Megan Elizabeth Gibbons

Sarah Grace Gold

Giulia Francesca

Goldwasser

Lily Addison Gould

Jack Kramer Grady

Nicholas Michael Granata

Molly Rose Grant

Chase August Gray

Francesco Gullo

Annabella V Gutin

Virginia Elizabeth Guy

Hayden Stuart Hall

Isabelle Hanna Harvey

Martha Elizabeth

Heffernan

Gage Lane Hobart

Sarah Anne Holmes

Lucas James Homan

Catherine Cavanaugh

Honos

Emma Esther Phalen

Hood

Olivia Hoover

Nathan James Hunt

Katherine Stuart Jenkins

Baxter Davis Jennings

Edward Joseph Johns

Tamia Ruth Johnson

Tamya Marie Johnson

Gretchen Helena Juros

Lane Christine Kaeyer

Teaghan Rose Kay

Harrison Scott Kee

Shane Nolan Keough

Thalia Kerastaris

James Joseph King

Jonathan Joseph King

Benjamin Laurence Kosty

Nev Billyea Koughan

Sydney Lacey Langton

Alexis Heleen Lappin

Carter James Laramie

Owen Nicholas Lavoie

Jared Arthur Lederman

Madelyn Claire Leinberry

Abigail Grace Lemieux

Benjamin Gordon Levine

Sarah Elizabeth Levine

Matthew Coby Lewis

Caroline Patricia Linde

Georgia Whitten Lloyd

Christopher Desmarais

Locke

Mason Rowe Lohan

Liam James Mackenzie

Maya Rose Mahoney

Isaiah Makor

Finn Walker Maniaci

Ian Matthew Maude

Magnus Meeks McCarthy

Grace Anne McGarry

Carlin Mayo McGowan

Alba Michelle

Mehu-Tormo

Nica Lucia Mele

Devon Hans Menzler

Arielle Brooke

Mogolesko

Stella Martell Monaco

Ailish Grace Moran

Piper Lee Morgan

Cait Elizabeth Mullins

Conor Thomas Murnane

Finbarr Ailbe Nial

Hailey Ryan Oberlander

Nnennaya Chisomnazu

Okereke

Alexander Henry Orloff

Sebastian Luke Pantzer

Caitlin Doreen Parkman

Cameron James Patrick

Thomas Earl Payson

Zachary James Perlman

Isaiah Cardosa Pina

Michael Alexander Piper

Andrea Marie Potvin

Julia O’Keefe Potvin

Grace Ayles

Promise

Peighton Hazel Ridge

Cecelia Elizabeth Robbins

Clementine Wilson

Robins

Kailae Anastasia Rochford

Revil Romain

Dillon Matthew Rowe

Lucy Merritt Rubino

Catherine Carey Ryan

Lucy Nelson Sabin

Luis Antonio Sanchez

Kate Madelyn Santeusanio

Kealy Erin Satterfield

Max Matias Schapiro

Leah Michelle Schauer

Savio Luigi Schena

Nicholas Kevin Schrader

Matthew Paul Schricker

Talia Sara Schwartz

Cody Lang Selvais

Elan Jacob Shepard

Connor Bradley Sheridan

Anne Elizabeth Simcoe

Celia Alice Sliney

Evan Gray Smith

Tucker Barton Smith

Benjamin Yue-Jian Soon

Amanda Brooke Sorkin

Zoe May Spungin

Natalie Marie Suhr

Keira Anne Sweetnam

Helina Tadesse

Aidan Michael Tardie

Aden Michael Thang

Ryan Phillipps Thompson

Reed Fortier Tiffany

Patrick Ryan Tolan

Catherine Carlton

Trautman

Gwendolen Rose

Trimarchi

Celine Johanna Kathryn

Uhrich

Emanuel Jesus Lopes Vaz

Kendal-Arielle Grace

Vedrine-Ngole

Aeryn Aurora Vizy

Isabel Wabno

Lucy Kendall Wales

Ryan Trimble Wales

Matthew William Weed

Devin Kathryn Whalen

Clark Jackson Wheeler

Nicholas Michael Whitaker

Drew Michael Whitman

Nolen Devisme

Williamson

William Tate Windom

Griffin Robert Winter

Miles Munroe Worthley

Jack Frederick Wykes

Drake Thomas Wyman

Courtney Ann Yoder

pandemic. The little moments will be what we miss. The Thanksgiving Pep Rally where Mr. Bauer cartwheeled across the gym after our teachers channeled their inner harlie D’Amelio. The roar of the crowd under the Friday night lights at Piper Field, and the NGSS bike path cleanups the next day. Pickleball tournaments in the gym, rushing off to practice or rehearsal after school, or even something as simple as saying hi to a friend in the hallway, or a whole group of friends in the bathroom.

These are the moments that make us nostalgic, that connect us to this place and to these people. And sure, we’ll always make more of them — in college, the workforce, military or wherever else life might take us. But not again as a class, and not again with these people. So Class of 2023, as you look forward to the future, remember the past. Remember the memories you made, the experiences you had, the lessons you learned. Then go forward. Try new things. Meet new people. See new places. Make your mark on the world, but don’t forget who you are, where you came from and what you’ve accomplished to get to this point. You are incredible, Class of 2023. Never forget that. Thank you, and congratulations.

The 2023 class president’s address

BY LUCY SABIN

Hello, my name is Lucy Saban. And I had the honor of being class president from full term I will not be running for reelection, so stop thinking. And I would like to say that I’m 99% sure that this is a dream but all of your work Close in my snakes is my hair is in stakes. So clearly it’s happening for real this time. Here we go. I’ve had these feelings for a while now. And I think it’s time I tell you do Marblehead High School. It’s not me. It’s you. Wait, no, it’s not you. It’s me.

The time we had together will always be special to me when we’ve both grown so much from this relationship, but we have to move on.

We spent four years together, we learned a lot about each other’s twists and turns like that freaky little viewing staircase of yours. But like that staircase, we’re going nowhere. Please just hear me out. I will always cherish our intimate moments. Like how you taught me how to solve a derivative, converts moles and the late nights we spent reciting Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. These are all things I would say into my next relationship. Parting is such sweet sorrow. But let’s not make this a tragedy.

Although you never changed much, that’s what I loved about you. You stayed consistent, except in our second year. You’re a little all over the place. Fourteen different schedules. Baby, How am I supposed to keep up? You need to start taking care of yourself maybe going to working clock let’s be honest, we only stay together for the kids, but look at us now. The bell has rung for the last time, and we have to say goodbye. I thought I’d never date the high school. And then I met you. You big strong made-of-brick building. With your holes and poorly placed windows.

Oh, how I will miss your yellow-tinted light bulbs that gently buzz. But we had good memories too like only a few days ago at our senior prom, we had our own band rocking the House of Blues. Last fall, we had football games that left us with red much faces and raspy voices. And this spring a senior assassin game that I’ll admit some of us took too far. You push my boundaries and maybe try new things like look at me right now in this weird couple’s costume. A potato sack and rectangle have where these Dumbledore’s pajamas. You introduced me to so many people like Miss Berkowitz, who accepted our grain with open arms and an open fridge often feeding twice her foods class with cupcakes from bake-offs because our date food from the cafeteria was questionable at last.

Do you remember taking our cookies away or when to bring them back a year later? That type of gaslighting is not okay in a relationship. And yeah, you should have been worried about that college guy everyone’s been talking about. He wasn’t just a guy, best friend. And he’s gonna treat me right. Because we’re all striving for our best to be our best, to be passionate, excited and happy.

And if you’re upset, you can talk to my exs Charter and Glover. They will have plenty to say. And as for my last trick as a magician — poof you’re single. Thank you Class of 2023. Congratulations.

Love, Lucy

Yasen Kadiyski Colón

Christopher English hits a note as he performs Queen’s ‘Somebody to Love.’

Lily Gerson is all smiles and tears at the conclusion of Marblehead High School’s graduation. Members

Marie Cronin embraces her son, Aidan Tardie, following Marblehead High School’s graduation.

Shane Keough smiles.

MHS seniors wow the crowd as they head to prom

BY CLAIRE TIPS

More than 250 Marblehead High School seniors walked the red carpet to awaiting coaches that took them to their senior prom at the House of Blues in

Boston on June 6. Friends, family and other members of the community gathered at the school to snap photos of the soon-to-be graduates and cheer them on. Students greeted the crowd with smiles and waves.

In return, parents and siblings called out from the sidelines. A cohort of little brothers stood along Piper Field to watch the event.

Onlookers oohed and ahhed at the students in colorful dresses and meticulously-coordinated suits.

BY THE BOOK

Abbot Public Library hosts Summer Reading Kickoff

BY CLAIRE TIPS

The Abbot Public Library hosted its first Summer Reading Kickoff on Saturday, June 10, featuring live music, ice cream, community partners and a book sale.

“The Summer Reading Kickoff is all about sharing the love of reading with kids,” Library Dir. Kimberly Grad told the Marblehead Current at the event. “We know that when kids read over the summer, they come back strong in the next school year.”

Musicians Shon Gordon with “Rockabye Beats” and Dan Blakeslee played for the crowd.

Terry’s Ice Cream truck and Shubie’s Marketplace served treats, and several community groups ran activities, including Sustainable Marblehead, Council on Aging, Marblehead Water and Sewer Commission and Marblehead Schools Parent Councils.

Abbot Public Library is temporarily located at the old Eveleth School, 3 Brook Road, while its Pleasant Street building undergoes a $10 million

renovation. Grad emphasized that the community can still count on the library for all its enriching services.

“We’re in about 11,000 square feet compared to our 33,000 square feet, but we’re offering all the services, programs for kids, teens and adults,” Grad said. “We’re offering this great event today to welcome the community to our location and enjoy reading with us.”

The library’s Summer Reading runs until August 18. For more information, visit abbotlibrary.org/.

People browse the book sale sponsored by Friends of Abbot Public Library.

Folk singer Dan Blakeslee plays his guitar for children at the Abbot Public Library’s Summer Reading Kickoff.

Families wait in line outside the Terry’s Ice Cream truck.

Three of Marblehead High School’s staff, Rebecca Bagnall (left), Kristen Lyons (center), and Caya Johnson (right), didn’t miss the opportunity to join the students in walking down the carpet, making their way to chaperone the prom.

Gio Dalle Valle, wearing blue, and Georgia Lloyd, wearing red, grace their way down the red carpet to the coaches.

Samantha Clock and Finn Bennett, wearing emerald green, smile as they are cheered on by friends and family, especially Clock’s younger brother.

Yasen Colòn and Charly Cooper wear matching royal blue and beaming smiles as they walk down the red carpet.

Isaac Gross and Piper Morgan, wearing emerald green, recognize faces in the crowd as they walk to the coaches that will take them to the prom.

MaryGrace Kane and Conor Murnane walk down the red carpet in a beautifully patterned dress and coordinated suit and tie.

$500 reward for return of Rip Tide sign

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Manager Jamie Ciampa opened The Rip Tide Lounge to a patron asking what happened to the dive bar’s outside wooden sign.

“I go, ‘What do you mean?’”

Ciampa told the Marblehead Current. “I walked outside to look and sure enough it was gone. I went, ‘You gotta be kidding me.’”

The theft comes as the Pleasant Street establishment transitions to new ownership.

The new owner, Mikael Vienneau, is offering a $500 reward to anyone who returns the wooden sign safely, according

to Ciampa. The faded, wooden sign features a three-staff ship with sails billowing out, a stone lighthouse and a yellow sun.

“The new owner had plans to put it behind the bar to pay homage,” said Ciampa. If the new owners didn’t want it, she

said they planned to keep it.

Established in the late 1930s or early 1940s, The Rip Tide Lounge was initially named Kylie’s and is believed to have received Marblehead’s first license to serve alcohol following the end of Prohibition. In the 1950s, the name was changed to The Rip Tide. The two-story building, characterized by its blue wooden shingles and red door, was built around 1900.

George Ciampa, Jamie Ciampa’s father-in-law, has owned and operated the lounge since the late 1960s.

“He doesn’t remember when the sign was put up,” she said,

“but we are very upset — it’s a landmark sign that’s been up for more than 25 years, and we hope to get it back.”

She added, “You just don’t take other people’s property.”

Asked if she thought it was a prank? She said no, believing it to be a disgruntled patron whom they barred from the premises.

“It’s a heavy sign, like it was bolted onto the wall,” she said. “You’d need a SUV or a truck to move it.”

Anyone with information about the sign, should message The Rip Tide via Facebook at facebook.com/ TheRiptideLounge.

Eagle Scout project repairs, restores Ware Pond boardwalk

The following was submitted by Boy Scout Troop 11 and Marblehead Conservancy.

In a display of community spirit on June 3, Clive Connolly, a member of Troop 11 in Marblehead, planned and led an Eagle Scout leadership project that brought together 21 volunteers on a rainy day.

Fellow scouts and adult leaders from Troop 11, members of the Marblehead Conservancy, family and friends joined forces to restore and repair the Ware Pond boardwalk.

Inspired by the Conservancy’s commitment to preserving and protecting natural landmarks, Connolly’s initiative has breathed new life into the boardwalk and enhanced the access to the Ware Pond conservation area.

Ware Pond has long been a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking solace in

nature. The boardwalk winds its way through the woods and wetlands at the pond’s edge and offers the opportunity to get close to the open water of the pond. Over the years, weather

and foot traffic have taken their toll on the boardwalk, making it look worn in some sections and potentially hazardous.

Connolly was aided in completing the project by

fellow scouts Dylan Boland, Gavyn Domato, Xavier Grazado, Noah Jackson, Tristan Kindle, Nathaniel Landrebe, Evan Manning, Sam Putnam, Greg Santosus, Beck Sheridan and Luke Webster. Also helping were troop leaders Jim Caplan,

Top 3 things sabotaging your commitment to self-care

BY WENDY TAMIS ROBBINS

According to a recent KFF/ CNN survey, nearly one-third of U.S. adults reported feelings of anxiety and depression in February 2023. And 90% of U.S. adults believe that the country is facing a mental health crisis.

Now more than ever we are encouraged to take care of our mental health and wellbeing. We are given the tools — exercise, meditate, connect, take breaks, etc. — but we aren’t given the resources to implement them into our lives.

When left to our own devices to create and commit to a selfcare regime, why do we feel like it’s constantly being sabotaged?

Like there’s never enough time or your budget doesn’t allow for another expense. Or maybe it’s the guilt and shame that surfaces when you consider taking time “just for you,” worried that someone will think you’re selfish or not a committed team player, parent or partner.

If you wonder what happens to your “best laid plans” to work out more, find someone to talk to and commit to a 14-day meditation challenge, you’re not the only one.

There are countless things sabotaging your desire to take more time for yourself to protect your mental health and wellbeing. Here are the top three. Contracted Awareness: We are so focused on the problem,

we can’t see the solution. Contracted awareness is tunnel vision. We see only why we can’t and what’s in our way. We are trained to identify issues and obstacles to keep us safe. It’s a primitive survival skill that is also utilized in many modern day professions (attorneys, accountants, etc.).

As Albert Einstein said, “No problem can ever be solved at the same level of awareness at which it was created.”

If your inability to practice self care is created in contracted awareness, you need to expand your awareness to find the solution.

In this new level of awareness, the circumstances haven’t changed. You have the same amount of time and money. But how you think about it — your mindset — has changed.

Your focus shifts from problems to possibilities, from obstacles to opportunities.

“This will never happen” becomes “How can I make this happen? How can this be possible?”

You likely use this skill already when other “emergencies” arise and become your top priority. Your thinking becomes creative and you reschedule, delegate and budget your time and money in a way that frees up resources for the sudden or unexpected need.

Extinguish this saboteur by expanding your awareness beyond being paralyzed by the problem toward creative ways to make your self-care practices a possibility.

Self-worth: When people are asked why they don’t practice more self care, the number one reason is time. “I just don’t have

the time.”

Much of life is about allocating resources — time and money.

We all have a limited amount and make choices on how to allocate them everyday. You decide what’s “worth it” and you spend accordingly.

This means your biggest self-care saboteur isn’t time or money, it’s believing you are worth investing these resources in yourself. Self-care is an act of self-love. The belief that you are worth it comes from a very deep and vulnerable place. Tap into that and you’ll extinguish the second saboteur.

Present Bias: It’s clear to see how our lives and reality are affected by big decisions. It’s the small, seemingly insignificant choices we make — almost mindlessly — every day, that we discount. We sabotage our tomorrow for the pleasure we seek and the discomfort we avoid today.

We don’t appreciate how small choices made consistently compound over time into big, significant changes. It’s called hyperbolic discounting. Also known as “present bias” and also known as “why we make terrible choices!”

You would think seeking comfort now would include selfcare, because it feels good. But most of us are taught to sacrifice our own needs for others and seek external validation through people-pleasing.

When faced with the choice of taking care of yourself or someone else, you likely choose someone else because it feels better now.

This is fine 95% of the time.

It’s the other 5% you need to commit to. When someone asks for your 5%, this is that seemingly small, insignificant decision that changes everything. This is the fork in the road when you either keep your promise to yourself or abandon yourself.

Our reality today is based on what we did yesterday and the day before that. And our tomorrow is created by what we do today. Discredit the discounting of your actions today and dismantle this saboteur in the process.

There are numerous benefits here:

The obvious mental and physical benefits of self-care. You feel more calm and energized, less anxious and exhausted. Your thoughts are more curious and compassionate, less judgmental and critical. You show up for others more present and grateful, less distracted and resentful. You show up at work with more enthusiasm and creativity resulting in more productivity and efficiency.

You are nurturing the relationship you have with yourself. When you commit to yourself consistently, it builds self-confidence and trust and rebuilds your sense of personal power and control.

Consider your child, partner or client. If you say to them, “We are going to do this together on Monday, then this on Wednesday and this on Friday,” all in an effort to build and nurture your relationship. And then you cancel each commitment one after another. How does that other person feel about you and the relationship come Saturday?

Jonathan Manning, Jim Ramsden, Tony Santosus and Peter Sheridan and Marblehead Conservancy members Steve Butterworth, Don Morgan and Doug Perkins. Connolly’s sister, Miranda and mother, Milena, also supported the project by helping with logistics and some of the preparation work. Connolly’s main advisors for the project were Jim Caplan, Don Morgan and Doug Perkins, all of whom were instrumental in working with Connolly to complete the planning and preparation in the weeks and months beforehand to ensure that the project workday would be successful. Looking to the future, the Marblehead Conservancy and Troop 11 of Marblehead eagerly anticipate further collaboration in their shared commitment of preserving the town’s natural heritage.

Not very good! You have sent a clear message that they are not your priority, you can’t be relied upon and you don’t value the relationship.

This is what we do to the relationship we have with ourselves. If we can’t be trusted to take care of ourselves, then we don’t feel safe in our skin. This contributes to feelings of anxiety and depression and even fuels addictions.

The promises you make to yourself are the most important promises you’ll ever keep and the most impactful on your well-being.

Your impact on the world — you touch so many lives in a day, it’s imperative you prioritize the impact you’re having on them. Taking care of yourself more doesn’t mean taking care of others less, it means taking care of them better. They will see and feel the difference.

You are modeling for others — your kids, the people who work for you, your peers and friends. When you prioritize your self care, you give those people in your world permission to do the same. So many are looking around for some sign that it’s ok to take care of themselves. I’m inviting you to do this not just for yourself, but for all those relying on and watching you.

Wendy Tamis Robbins is an anxiety expert, bestselling author of “The Box: An Invitation to Freedom From Anxiety” and founder of CAVE Club, a wellness community exclusively for professional women. She works globally as a mental health and wellness coach, speaker and advocate.

COURTESY PHOTO

A $500 reward is being offered for the safe return of The Rip Tide Lounge’s wooden sign.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Don Morgan, left, and Clive Connolly check out some tools.

Clive Connolly surveys the completed Ware Pond boardwalk.

Friday, June 2

11:42 a.m. An officer assisted at the scene of a vehicle accident on Pond Street.

12:08 p.m. An officer investigated the report of a vehicle crash on Creesy Street.

2:22 p.m. Officers investigated a report of a disoriented person on West Shore Drive.

3:04 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and Bubier Road.

4:59 p.m. An officer investigated a hit-and-run reported on Gregory Street.

8:54 p.m. An officer spoke by phone with a man who had lost his wallet at some point while he was playing golf at Olde Salem Greens. He told the officer that he had an Airtag in his wallet and had tracked the wallet to the area of Fieldbrook Road and Camille Terrace in Marblehead. The officer then went to a home on Fieldbrook Road and spoke with a woman who stated that neither she nor any member of her family had recovered a

wallet. The officer then noticed a light on at a home across the street. The homeowner’s son told the officer he had recovered a wallet at Olde Salem Greens earlier in the day while he was playing a round of golf with his friend. The officer then retrieved the wallet and returned it to its owner on Seans Way.

Saturday, June 3

9:27 a.m. An officer investigated the report of a vehicle crash on Pond Street.

12:55 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Pleasant Street and filed a report.

1:25 p.m. An officer investigated a report of a tractor hazard on West Street.

4:11 p.m. Officers assisted at the scene of a vehicle crash on Lafayette Street and West Shore Drive.

5:06 p.m. Officers assisted at the scene of a vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and Gerry Street.

the report of an assault on Bessom Street.

Sunday, June 4

12:10 a.m. An officer investigated the report of a tree or branch down on Beacon Street.

1:13 p.m. An officer investigated the report of an altercation between the drivers of two vehicles on Elm and Curtis streets. Upon his arrival, the officer was met by a man who explained that he had been driving on Washington Street where he had almost driven into a black Audi, which had triggered an argument with the Audi’s driver, who had followed him from Washington Street onto Elm Street and then to the area of the information booth at Samuel Snow Square. The Audi driver had then exited his vehicle and reached into the other vehicle, grabbing the driver by the shirt. He allegedly clenched his fist and said, “I’m going to punch you, kid.” After they exchanged heated words,

the one driver drove off towards the police station. The driver stressed that the Audi driver had just grabbed the cloth of his shirt and had not struck him, and that he did not want the Audi driver to be charged, as he felt they both had been out of line. The man just wanted an officer to call the Audi driver and admonish him about not putting his hands on other drivers. The officer did, in fact, speak to the Audi driver.

Monday, June 5

9:56 a.m. An officer spoke with a Manley Street resident who wanted clarification on the law regarding his neighbor storing approximately eight unregistered motor vehicles and five boats on his property, some of which appeared to be abandoned. The officer conferred with a lieutenant who explained that a motor vehicle could remain on private property (whether registered or unregistered) as long as it doesn’t fall under Town Bylaw 185-1, which governs vehicles that are “wrecked,

junked, partially dismantled or abandoned.” Without a permit from the Select Board, such vehicles can only be stored for 60 days. “In granting such permit, the Selectmen shall consider the effect on the neighborhood and any nuisances or serious hazards,” the bylaw concludes. The officer observed the vehicles in question, most of which were covered in leaves and debris, indicating that they had been sitting for some period of time. In the officer’s estimation, only one, which had a cracked windshield and deflated tires, appeared to be “wrecked, junked, partially dismantled or in an abandoned condition.” The officer’s report indicated he planned to attempt to make contact with the property owner.

5:04 p.m. An officer investigated a disturbance reported on Pleasant Street.

6:05 p.m. Officers investigated a disturbance on Washington Street.

7:51 p.m. Officers investigated

Marblehead honors fallen firefighters

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

The Marblehead Fire Department, local officials and residents observed Firefighters Memorial on Sunday June 11 morning with a 15-minute ceremony at the Waterside Cemetery firefighters’ memorial plot. This annual observance, staged in communities nationwide, pays tribute to firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty.

Fire Chief Jason Gilliland emphasized that the ceremony serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that firefighters make in “protecting the lives and property of Marblehead’s citizens.”

“One of the most important things we can do as firefighters is never forget the sacrifices made by those who went before us, nor the lessons we have learned from them,” stated Gilliland.

Capt. Eric Ridge presided over the morning ceremony, stating, “Firefighters’ Sunday for us is a time when we remember all those we lost, including our retirees, firefighters around the commonwealth and throughout the country.” Ridge, whose hoarse voice resulted from an on-the-job incident, served as a potent reminder of the dangers firefighters face daily.

“I had many remarks prepared, but I was shocked by an automated external defibrillator on a call yesterday,” he revealed. “I never thought something like that could happen — but it did.”

Recently, Gilliland delved into the history of the Waterside Cemetery’s

firefighter memorial monument.

“In 1927, the Marblehead Firefighters Relief Association commissioned the Kimball Brothers of Salem to carve a suitable monument,” said Gilliland.

“Carved from Vermont marble, the sixfoot-six-inch monument features a deep relief profile of a firefighter on its front.”

The local relief association embarked on the monument project intending to celebrate, honor and inspire Marblehead firefighters.Gilliland discovered the monument cost $1,080 in Jan. 1, 1929. “Adjusted for inflation, the monument would have cost $19,159 today,” added Gilliland.

The monument was dedicated at noon on Aug. 25, 1929, during the town’s tercentenary celebration, which included a parade.

“Firefighters marched from the School Street station to Waterside Cemetery. In a brief ceremony, the monument was unveiled by 6-year-old Luxton Martin, grandson of Firefighter John A. Martin, the founder of the Marblehead Firefighter Relief Association, established in 1880.”

The Fire Department’s chaplain, Rev. Timothy Moran of Our Lady, Star of the Sea Catholic Church, both opened and closed the ceremony in prayer.

“We honor those who spent their lives with great courage and generosity for the safety and protection of their brothers and sisters,” said Moran. “Their legacy enriches our lives with the goodness they’ve demonstrated over the years.”

Girls 100

In the boys 2-mile, Marblehead’s Isaac Gross (9:51.09) ended up 34th in the state.

“This group of boys distance runners is one the most competitive and deep fields to come out of Massachusetts in quite a while, but Isaac still competed hard to stay in his race to earn a respectable finish time,” Herlihy said. “Isaac had a tremendous season, and while it’s a bummer to have such tough conditions for his final race this spring, even making it to this stage is a testament to his drive and work ethic.”

Girls discus

Rachael Albert (97-6, 24th place) was the first athlete to compete at this year’s All-State Meet in the discus.

“She would say this was a disappointing result after landing shy of her personal best of 103-11, but I would actually call it her best outing as a competitor,” said coach Danny Plunkett. “In nearly 90-degree heat with little time to warm up

and sweat impacting the grip, many other girls were struggling in the circle, and no one was throwing at their best. But Rachael was the most composed and consistent I’ve ever seen her this season, hitting 97 feet twice while not fouling a single throw. Her poise in tough conditions paid off, as evidenced by her jump from the bottom half of the seeds (35th) to a 24th-place finish in the state.”

Girls 200

Cate Trautman and Ava

Machado both qualified for the All-State Championships. Unfortunately, Machado came down with an illness the night before and wasn’t able to compete in this event but was still there to participate in two others.

On the other hand, Trautman was able to tie a 15-year-old school record with a time of 26.24 to finish 16th in the state.

“Cate’s final individual race for Marblehead was unsurprisingly a tremendous success like so many others she ran throughout the past four years,” said coach Nolan Raimo. “Cate also has the school record in the 55 meters, 200, 4x100 and 4x200 across both the indoor and outdoor seasons.”

Boys 200

Harrison Curtis qualified for the All-State Championship Meet a few weeks back, and so he was ready for this race. He finished 33rd in the state with a final time of 22.93, just .09 off his personal best and .12 behind an 11-year-old school record.

“Curtis spanned the 55, 100, 200, 300, 400, 4x100, 4x200 and 4x400 throughout the indoor and outdoor seasons, and he has set school records in the 100, 4x100 and 4x200,” said Raimo.

Boys 110-meter hurdles

Alex Hersey finished 23rd with a time of 15.80, narrowly missing his personal best of 15.68, which considering the rain and cold is an applause-worthy effort, according to Herlihy.

“In outdoor track, we are at the mercy of the weather, and it creates a lot of what-if situations, but Alex’s performance on Saturday, especially considering the second half of the race was outstanding,” Herlihy said.

“Frankly, the current record of 15.20 doesn’t seem like it will survive Alex’s senior campaign next year, but he will also have one last shot at it this spring in the MSTCA North Decathlon.”

(See related story on Page 13.)

Machado qualified for the AllStates in the preliminaries of the Division 3 Meet, somewhat of a buzzer-beater in terms of qualification timing, according to Herlihy.

As stated previously, she was battling through an illness all week long leading up to the All-States, but her tenacity to show up and compete in both this event and the 4x100 was extraordinary, her coach said. She still finished 26th in the state with a time of 13.29.

“The weather was miserable, and after (Saturday’s) race, Ava was struggling with sickness,” added Herlihy. “But she still willed herself back into form to compete later on in the 4x100.”

Boys 100

Curtis, who shares the school record in the 100 with Joe Doherty from a few years back, finished 28th in the state with a time of 11.34.

“The conditions on Saturday were miserable for all the sprinters and jumpers, and the majority of runners were 0.3 to 0.4 behind their seed times,” Raimo said. “This race capped Harrison’s high school career, who undoubtedly had the largest improvement as an athlete and a leader in a single year. He went

from an 11.98 runner to 11.09, and beyond that he changed our sprinting squad with his passion for track.”

Girls high jump

9:54 p.m. Officers investigated the report of an assault on Pitman Road. the nation at the New Balance Nationals on June 16 at Franklin Field in Philadelphia.”

Keira Sweetnam, who finished second at the Division 3 State Meet in this event, ended up 14th in the state with a clearance of 5-2.

“As noted, the weather was impacting all the jumpers, with many jumping well below their seeded heights,” said Raimo. “Keira capped her high school track career as one of the best jumpers we’ve ever seen in the past 20-plus years, and she will now be taking her talents to Wesleyan University next year to compete on the volleyball team.”

Girls 4x100 Machado, Trautman, Sadie Halpern and Le’Daisha Williams (49.93) were the fourth best quartet in the entire state.

“This group of sprinters dominated throughout the entire spring season,” Raimo said. “They won the Division 3 state championship, and also the 4x100 and 4x200 at the Division 3 State Relays, not to mention surpassing a 10-year-old school record by nearly two seconds at the All-States, and honestly a sub-50 4x100 time may stick in the books for years to come.”

COURTESY PHOTO / AMY GILLIAND

Fire Chief Jason Gilliland speaks during Firefighters’ Memorial Sunday, observed to honor fallen firefighters.

Marjorie B. Penni, 90

Marjorie Penni, 90, of Boxford, Massachusetts, passed away on Friday, June 2, 2023, from complications of an ongoing illness. Her sons were with her at the time of her passing. She was the wife of Joseph Penni, who had predeceased her in 2020. Joe and Marge had been married for 68 years.

Born in 1932 in Lowell, Massachusetts, she was the oldest daughter of Arthur and Eva Marie (Desjardins) Birchenough.

A graduate of Lowell High School’s Class of 1950 and their

Andrea B. Gleason

Andrea B. Gleason, 42, of Marblehead passed away peacefully on June 4, 2023, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born in Salem, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of Joel P. Gleason and Elise M. Gleason, both of Marblehead. Andrea was the dear sister of Joel P. Gleason Jr. and Randall B. Gleason.

Andrea grew up in Marblehead and graduated from Marblehead High School with the Class

homecoming queen of that year, she went on to graduate from Bradshaw Business School and enjoyed a successful career as a freelance model for the Lowell Sun and other commercial

publications. She met her future husband while visiting her cousin Phyllis Doliber in Marblehead. Joe and Marge were married in 1952, settled in Marblehead and raised four sons. In the early ‘80s, they built a house in Boxford and moved there upon its completion. After the sons were grown, she and Joe started to spend time in North Palm Beach, Florida, during the winter. She loved living in Boxford, being in the woods with nature and flower gardens. She loved animals — not only her own cats, but her son Rob’s dogs and other people’s pets she would care for. She was a supporter of the MSPCA and Animal Rescue. In later years, she enjoyed

University.

She was an executive assistant at Moelis & Co. in New York and recently nannied a young infant whom she loved very much. She had a special affinity for children.

Even at such a young age, Andrea persevered through many health complications. She was a true fighter and remained strong throughout her treatment — never complaining, always remaining optimistic.

helping her son Jon in the office at his metal shop. She liked being around people.

As time went on, Joe developed dementia, which demanded a great deal of her time and energy. She was greatly aided by her son Rob, who lived with and took care of both parents for years, and some absolutely wonderful health aides who stayed on to take care of Marge after Joe’s death. Joe and Marge both lived at home until their very final days.

She is survived by her four sons, Jay Penni and his wife Dinny Myerson of Waltham, Massachusetts; Samuel Penni III and his wife Leslee of Houston, Texas; Robert Penni

was hiking, skiing, swimming or playing tennis. She particularly treasured spending time by the ocean and loved to walk barefoot on the beach with the family dog, Tanner, collecting sea glass, rocks, seashells and driftwood, which she used to create beautiful art for friends and family alike. She found joy in observing and studying different species of birds, especially delighting in watching hummingbirds.

of Boxford, Massachusetts, and Jonathan Penni of Danvers, Massachusetts.

She is also survived by her grandson, Simon Penni of Waltham, Massachusetts; her sister, Wilhelmina Rogers and nephew Timothy Rogers, of Dracut, Massachusetts; sister in-law Anne Penni of Marblehead, and by numerous nieces and nephews. Marge was loved, and she will be missed.

Her life will be celebrated in a private ceremony in the near future. In lieu of flowers, Marge would have suggested a donation to help animals. For more information or online guestbook, visit MurphyFuneralHome.com or call 978-744-0497.

relatives and friends.

A celebration of Andrea’s life will be held at the Corinthian Yacht Club in Marblehead on July 12, 2023, from 1-4 p.m. Andrea’s wish would be for those who knew her to find solace in the fact that she is now finally at peace. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Gleason family may be shared eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com.

RELIGION

of 1999. She attended the University of Vermont and later received her bachelor of arts in sociology from Salem State

OBITUARY SUBMISSION POLICY

The Marblehead Current publishes obituaries online for free and in its print edition for a flat fee of $200.

Submissions or inquiries should be sent to notices@marbleheadnews.org.

Submissions should include the

Andrea loved music and was a talented singer and pianist. She enjoyed spending time outdoors whenever she could, whether it

name of the funeral home serving the deceased’s family, along with a daytime phone number for a person to contact, in case we have any questions about the obituary.

Photos, preferably in JPEG format,

Andrea leaves behind her parents and brothers, nephews Randall B. Gleason Jr. and Jack Gleason, Mark Joyce her partner, and many loving and cherished

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Andrea’s honor to the National Kidney Foundation by clicking “Donate” at www.kidney.org.

are welcome. Photos should be of high enough quality to reproduce well in print. Generally, an image file created by a digital camera or smartphone will be fine; images copied from websites will not.

Houses of worship service schedule

CATHOLIC

OUR LADY STAR OF THE SEA 85 Atlantic Ave.

» 781-631-0086

» sosmarblehead.org

Regular Mass Schedule

» Saturday Vigil: 4 p.m.

» Sunday: 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 11 a.m.

Every weekday (Monday-Saturday): 9 a.m.

» Confessions: 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Saturday

» Rosary Group: Thursdays, following the 9 a.m. Mass (approximately 10 a.m.).

» Adult choir rehearsals: Thursdays, 7 p.m., organ loft

» Children’s choir rehearsals: Sunday, 8:15 a.m., organ loft

Centering Prayer group: Mondays, after 9 a.m. Mass until 11 a.m.

» Saturday, June 24: 5 p.m., Garden Party, live music, refreshments and cocktails (21-plus)

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE

FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST, SCIENTIST

» 134 Elm St. 781-631-3868

» fccsmarbleheadma.wordpress.com

» Sunday Church Service: 10-11 a.m.

Sunday School (open to children and young people under the age of 20): 10-11 a.m.

Wednesday Testimony Meeting: 7:30-8:30 p.m.

» Reading Room (in church building): Open just after Sunday service and before Wednesday testimony meetings

A link to watch a replay of the recent free online lecture on Christian Science, “How to Make Change for the Better,” is available on the church website.

COMMUNITY CHURCH

GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH

17 Pleasant St.

» 781-631-9343 gracemarblehead.org

» Discipleship Class: 9:15 a.m.

Sunday

»

» Worship Gatherings: 10:30 a.m. Sunday

» Grace Kids (Grades K-5): 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday

» Youth Group: 7 p.m. Wednesday

» Women’s Bible Study: 10 a.m.

Thursday

» Prayer Gatherings: 1 p.m. Thursday

» Men’s Bible Study: 6 a.m. Friday

Friday, June 16: 6:30 p.m., minigolf at Golf Country, Route 114, Middleton, then ice cream next door

» Tuesday, June 20: 6:30 p.m., watch and discuss two 45-minute episodes of “The Chosen: Season 3”

» Monday, June 26-Friday, June 30: 9-11:30 a.m., Vacation Bible School, “Stellar: Shine Jesus’ Light”; visit gracemarblehead.org/kids/vbs

CONGREGATIONAL

OLD NORTH CHURCH, THE FIRST CHURCH OF CHRIST IN MARBLEHEAD 35 Washington St.

» 781-631-1244 » onchurch.org

Thursday, June 15: 7 p.m., leadership at sanctuary

Sunday, June 18: 8 a.m., baptism; worship service at lighthouse; 9:30 a.m., Death and Dying/Life and Living course

» Monday, June 19: 6:30 p.m., women’s AA

Tuesday, June 20: 9 a.m., Lectio Divina, art setup

» Wednesday, June 21: 8 a.m., art drop-off

EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF ST.

ANDREW, EPISCOPAL

» 135 Lafayette St.

» 781-631-4951

standrewsmhd.org

» Regular Sunday services (Rite II of the Episcopal liturgy): 8 a.m., spoken service; 10 a.m., musical service

» Tuesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.: Gospel

those with memory loss and their caregivers

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2:15-3:30 p.m., Parish Hall open for exercise

» Wednesday, noon: Eucharist

Second Saturday, 8:30-9:30 a.m.: Coffee Cups informal conversation and fellowship

Thursday, June 15: 7 p.m., “Environmental Justice” talk in honor of Juneteenth with Rev. Clyde Elledge II at EBSCO Hall, Ipswich ST. MICHAEL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

» 26 Pleasant St.

» 781-631-0657 stmichaels1714.org

» Sundays: 10 a.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II (with music), in-person and online on church’s YouTube Channel

» Mondays: 11 a.m., Prayer Shawl

Ministry

Wednesdays: 9:30 a.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II; 10:15 a.m., Bible study

Thursdays: 7:30 p.m., choir

rehearsal

First Sundays: 5 p.m., Choral Evensong (September through May), in-person only Tuesday, June 20: 7 p.m., vestry meeting

JEWISH TEMPLE EMANU-EL, REFORM CONGREGATION

» 393 Atlantic Ave.

» 781-631-9300 emanu-el.org

» Shabbat: Friday, 6 p.m., in person and on Facebook Live

» Torah Study: First and second Saturdays of month, 10 a.m. on Zoom

Religious School: 9 a.m. Sundays

» Senior Connection: 11 a.m.

Tuesdays

Mah Jongg: 7 p.m. Tuesdays

» Chai Baby: 9:30 a.m. Fridays

» Wednesday, June 14: 7 p.m., monthly movie night

» Thursday, June 15: 7 p.m., Brotherhood/Sisterhood monthly cooking

» Friday, June 16: 6 p.m., board installation Shabbat

Monday, June 19: office closed in observance of Juneteenth

» Wednesday, June 21: 7 p.m., Brotherhood (location TBD), Jewish Music Neighborhood

TEMPLE SINAI, CONTEMPORARY CONSERVATIVE SYNAGOGUE

1 Community Road

» 781-631-2762

» templesinaiweb.org

Kabbalat Shabbat: Fridays, 6 p.m.

» Shabbat Service: Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.

North Shore Minyan: Congregation

Shirat Hayam in Swampscott and Temple Sinai unite to provide a joint daily morning and evening North Shore Minyan. The schedule is as follows:

» — Sunday, 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. (Temple Sinai, Zoom only).

— Monday, 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. (Temple Sinai, in person and Zoom)

» — Tuesday and Wednesday, 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. (Congregation Shirat Hayam, online only).

» — Thursday, 7:30 a.m. (Congregation Shirat Hayam, Swampscott, in person and online).

— Thursday, 7 p.m. (Congregation

Shirat Hayam, online only).

» — Friday, 7:30 a.m. (Congregation

Shirat Hayam, online only).

» Thursday, June 15: 7:30-9 p.m., Zoom, second in series “Introduction to Judaism: A Preview,” “Finding Torah in Our World: How the Torah Developed” with Rabbi Jessica Lowenthal, Temple Beth Shalom in Melrose

Thursday, June 22: 7:30-9 p.m., Zoom, third in series “Introduction to Judaism: A Preview,” “What is Jewish Community: The People Israel” with Cantor Vera Broekhuysen, Temple Emanu-El in Haverhill LUTHERAN CLIFTON LUTHERAN CHURCH

» 150 Humphrey St. » 781-631-4379 cliftonlutheran.org

» Weekly worship service: Sunday, 10 a.m., live stream on Zoom Sunday School: Sundays, 9 a.m.

» Coffee Hour: Sunday, 11 a.m.

» Choir Chat: Tuesday, 4:45 p.m. over Zoom

» Midweek Fellowship: Wednesday, 7 p.m.

» Bible Study: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m.

METHODIST

ST. STEPHEN’S UNITED METHODIST CHURCH » 67 Cornell Road » 781-631-2756 www.marblehead.church

» St. Stephen’s is open for Sunday morning worship. Every Sunday, they have traditional worship at 10:30 a.m. with a time of refreshments and fellowship afterward. Worship may also be attended via Zoom.

Tuesday mornings: Conversation and prayer on Facebook Live with Pastor Isaac (see facebook.com/ marblehead.church)

UNITARIAN

UNIVERSALIST

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH OF MARBLEHEAD 28 Mugford St. » 781-631-1215 uumarblehead.org

» Sunday service is at 10:30 a.m. and on Zoom: bit.ly/3EIRKiF All persons attending a regular Sunday Service in person are asked to wear masks in the sanctuary.

Thursday, June 15: 7:30 p.m., board of trustees meeting

» Sunday, June 18: 9 a.m., Sunday Seminar; 10:30 a.m., Sunday Services; 11:30 a.m., After Service Social Hour; noon, Social Action Committee meeting

» Monday, June 19: 7 p.m., Marblehead Arts Festival meeting

Marblehead native making music, partnering with rock stars

BY CHRISTINE McCARRISTON

Growing up in a house filled with music doesn’t always lead to a Grammy Award-winning songwriting career, but for Marblehead native David Brook that’s exactly what happened. His career has taken him to New York City and his current home of Los Angeles where he has written songs for Eminem, One Republic, Charlie Puth, Keith Urban and more, some of which earned Grammy and Platinum status.

“My mom played music for me at a really young age,” he recalled, adding his mom and father, Bob, still live in his childhood home in town. Billy Joel was his biggest influence, along with Ray Charles and Elton John, musicians his mom loved and played throughout the house regularly. He also loved Matchbox Twenty then and now and worked with the band’s lead singer Rob Thomas during the pandemic.

A 2011 Northeastern University graduate with a major in music business, Brook knew he wanted to work in the music industry as a pre-teen, but it wasn’t until middle or high school that he realized you could write music for a living.

He then began studying Max Martin, a Swedish record producer and songwriter. Brook has always loved pop music and learned through his studies that Martin was the writer of some of his favorite songs including many 1990s hits by the Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears and NSYNC to name a few. “I realized I loved the crafting of the songs. It was

Decathlon

From P. A13

488 points. The high jump, especially on limited jumps, is a survive-and-advance event in a decathlon, and Alex matching his personal best was a success for sure.”

The long jump was next up. Hersey entered it with a personal best leap of 20-5.

“It was an event we predicted he would be able to have a sizable advantage compared to the rest of the field,” said Raimo. “We shifted Alex’s runway back two additional steps from 73 feet from the board to 86 feet from the board, and the newfound speed at takeoff propelled him to a 21-foot jump, which is a 7-inch personal best, placing him fifth overall with 675 more points. This jump of his is third all-time

something I wanted to chase,” the 2006 Marblehead High School graduate said.

His attention to the craft of songwriting steered him towards a desire to write melodies, lyrics and chords. His talent in the craft earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2014 with his writing of “Legacy” on Eminem’s “The Marshall Mathers LP 2,” and a Platinum certificate signifying 1,000,000 copies sold and streamed on Charlie Puth’s “Nine Track Mind” album.Being a songwriter means being your own boss, which can be both a blessing

in school history.”

Raimo added, “With added momentum from the long jump, Alex cruised in the 400 to a two-second personal best after running a 53.61 to place him ninth with 656 points. We had Alex running a 400 a few weeks ago in a dual meet, and he finished in 55.5 seconds, so a 53.61 was a huge way to cap off the first day of competition.”

Hersey finished Day 1 with 2,949 points, which placed him sixth with still a difficult day ahead.

Day two of a high school decathlon consists of the 110meter hurdles, discus, javelin, triple jump and the 1,500. In college and beyond, the triple jump is replaced by the pole vault.

The 110-meter hurdles kicked off the second day. Hersey

and a curse. “You’re your own boss which is wonderful and can be scary sometimes,” Brook explained. “A manager is an integral part of the career, with you and the manager pitching records to artists, but no one is going to want it more than you do so you have to keep pushing.”

In fact, persistence is one trait needed for the business. “And thick skin and patience.” All three are key as it can take years for a song to be accepted by an artist. “It just takes the right pair of ears to believe in it. Timing is probably 95% of the battle; it depends on when you hear it,”

competed at the All-State Meet just two days before the decathlon in this event, where he placed 23rd with a time of 15.80.

He then finished third among the other decathlon hurdle participants with a time of 15.46 to pick up 795 more points. His time places him fourth all-time in school history, just 0.26 off the record.

“The hurdles, unlike the high jump, is an event where you need to score big to place well in the decathlon,” said Raimo. “The advantage of the lower hurdles compared to college and the general scoring table is that you need to capitalize in it, and Alex did just that.”

The next two events – discus and javelin – were two of Alex’s weakest in the decathlon.

“Both events are a perfect balance of strength and

Baseball

From P. A13

a base hit.

Hopkinton shocker

The Marblehead boys started the Division 2 state tournament as the 29th seed, and after outlasting visiting Somerville, 13-11, in a preliminary round game, they had to go on a long-distance road trip to Hopkinton to take on the aforementioned fourth-seeded Hillers (14-7) on June 5, and they promptly doubled up the home team, 8-4.

Marblehead scored the first run of the game right away in the opening stanza and added four more in the second to lead, 5-0.

“But Hopkinton didn’t go away easily,” Giardi said. “They kept on tacking on runs in the

he told The Current, noting an artist can be in a relationship and not feel the lyrics work for them when the song is pitched, then six months later be heartbroken and those same words resonate, for example. His work with One Republic and DJ Galantis took over four years to be released by the artists.

Brook doesn’t always meet with the artists he sells songs to but does work directly with some musicians. He might write a song he and his manager pitch to a musician, or artists come to him looking for a song with a certain vibe. The songwriting usually happens with him, another writer and a producer in the room. “It’s all very collaborative.”

While many may picture songwriting in Los Angeles happening in large studios with big speakers and expensive equipment, Brook notes “it’s insane today what you can do with a laptop. In the 90s you needed more.” Today, songwriters can be just as successful in their home studios. Inspiration can strike at any time, but Brook usually does his best work in a “chill” environment, in his own studio, hanging out and having fun. “No pressure.”

Brook left his home studio to work with Charlie Puth in the singer’s New Jersey home writing for the album “Nine Track Mind” which would earn Platinum status. Puth was in the process of being signed by APG (Artists Publishing Group) and APG sent a demo of Puth singing “Broke” to singer Jason Derulo. What happens next “still blows my mind,” Brook recalled

technique, but Alex’s limited training in both was a concern going into the decathlon,” said Raimo. “But yet, he threw the discus very well from a standing throw to finish 18th with a throw of 85 feet that resulted in 385 points.

The Marblehead coach added, “This event is tough to score in with the layout of the scoring table, but oftentimes a few points make a big difference in the end.”

Hersey then went on to throw the javelin 96 feet, 5 inches to place 23rd with 287 points. His first two throws were 80 feet and 74 feet, but his third and final throw of 96-5 earned him about 50 points, which secured him a spot in the top five, Raimo explained.

Last but certainly not least was the 1,500, which is the bane of

third, fourth, fifth and sixth innings, while we were able to pad our lead some more in the fifth with three big runs.”

Pitcher Drew Whitman allowed three runs — two earned — four hits and four walks over the first 4.2-innings. He fanned one.

Cannuscio, Marblehead’s ace closer, followed Whitman to the mound and threw the final 2.1 innings to secure the victory. He gave up just one unearned run and one hit while whiffing two to record the save.

The Marblehead offense banged out nine hits. Bodie Bartram helped pace the attack with two singles and a walk. He drove home one run and also scored once.

Schmitt was credited with two singles against the Hillers. He knocked in one run, and he scored one run.

Stefan Shepard collected

smiling.

“Jason was at a White House dinner and the demo was on his phone. He said, I have to have this song. Jason saw Stevie Wonder at the dinner and said I need you to get on this. A week later, Derulo was in the studio with Stevie Wonder on harmonica. Stevie added a lot of ad libs at the end.” Keith Urban became attached to the song as well.

While stories like that are highlights for the former Boston Yacht Club valet, he says the best part of the job isn’t when the song comes out. “It’s in the studio, when you’re done and playing it back and knowing this is a good one. You have to celebrate making a song you all love,” he said.

Brook loves to come home and does what a lot of people do when they come back to town after being away awhile: he goes on a Neck run (with his sister Alexandra) and visits Peaches Point. He recently walked from Seaside to Marblehead Harbor, which he highly recommends. He loves to visit the local food shops, naming 5 Corners,, Minos with his nephew August, and Shubie’s. “We essentially lived on Shubie’s growing up. That was the chef in our house,” he remembered fondly.

The award-winning songwriter uses the word ‘magic’ when talking about July Fourth in his hometown. “My mom rents Terry’s ice cream truck for the family and friends. I always try to get back for it. The older I get the more I realize how insanely lucky I was to grow up in Marblehead. It’s still my favorite place,” Brook said.

existence for most decathletes, who typically don’t run further than 400 meters during the regular season, according to Raimo.

“Alex ran a quality 1,000 in indoor track with a 3:05 finish, and we were confident he could run a 5:10 1500,” said Raimo. “We set out with a goal of 80-second laps, and Alex held that pace the entire way to finish in a time of 5:00.05, which was remarkable considering this was his 10th event in two days.”

Raimo added, “Alex finished seventh in the entire state that included those who participated in the South decathlon, which is a phenomenal performance for a junior who has significant room for growth in many of those events. He was fifth in the North and will be back next year with his eyes on the top prize.”

one double, the lone extrabase hit for the visitors in this

COURTESY PHOTO

Grammy-winning songwriter David Brook grew up in Marblehead.

Matt Mahan also chipped in with

game, and scored twice. Brooks Keefe, Whitman and Mahan all singled in one run apiece. Jake Scogland chipped in with one single.

CURRENT PHOTOS/KEN MCGAGH

Marblehead’s Chris Cannuscio pitches in relief for the Magicians during a MIAA Division 2 Round of 32 tournament game at Hopkinton High School June 5.

Marblehead center fielder Shane Keough catches a fly ball.

Marblehead’s best bets, June 14-21

Welcome to our new feature, Current Events, spotlighting exciting happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email Current associate editor/senior reporter Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org. Leigh Blander

Jazz at the Arts

Thursday, June 15, 7 p.m.

(doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

Enjoy this jazz club experience at the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper St., with pianist Alex Minasian, bassist and vocalist Brandi Disterheft, drummer Joe Farnsworth and saxophonist Bill Pierce. Minasian has performed in some of the country’s most famous jazz rooms, including the Blue Note, Jazz @ Lincoln Center and the Apollo Theater. More info at marbleheadarts.org.

Summer Soiree

June 17, 6:30 pm

The Friends of Marblehead Public Schools

Summer Soiree is back. This annual party helps fulfill FOMPS’ mission of funding enrichment opportunities for all Marblehead public schools. The event, held at a private home, features live music, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Details at friendsofmarblehead. org/.

Garden Tour on Peach’s Point

June 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Join the Marblehead Museum for a unique opportunity to visit the stunning gardens at the home of Brian and Nancy McCarthy, 17 Crowninshield Rd. Landscape architect Doug Jones and gardener Rick Elder spent years recreating the multi-acre garden on the estate known as Seaside Farm, built in the early 20th century by Francis Boardman Crowninshield and Louise Dupont Crowninshield. Walk among the

roses, statues and luscious plants while taking in views of Crowninshield Island and the ocean. More info and tickets at marbleheadmuseum.org.

Lois Lane & The Daily Planets

June 17, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Enjoy live music at The Beacon, 123 Pleasant St., with Lois Lane and The Daily Planets. The group specializes in classic rock, rhythm and blues, funk, jazz, soul and pop.

Marblehead’s sailing legacy

June 21, 1 p.m.

Join Mike Michaud, fleet captain at the Boston Yacht Club, as he delves into the captivating history and importance of Marblehead’s renowned sailing tradition. Discover the secrets behind this picturesque town’s sailing legacy. The event is part of the Marblehead Council on Aging Speaker Series and will take place at the COA, 10 Humphrey St.

Library gala

Friday, June 16, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Abbot Public Library Foundation is hosting an inaugural gala to raise money for the library at the Lovely Estate, 4 Broadmere Way. The elegant evening affair is limited to 300 people. More info at abbotpubliclibrary.org.

MLT is ready to premiere ‘The Great Gatsby: An American Musical’

BY LINDA WERBNER

“I live 75 yards from the stage door of the MLT,” says Fred Anthony Marco, who wrote the book and lyrics for “The Great Gatsby: An American Musical,” which has its world premiere on Friday, June 23, at Marblehead Little Theatre. “It was not planned, but you got to pay attention to fate.” Living adjacent to the theatre is very convenient, he adds. “I can just shoot right over during rehearsals.”

The musical has had a long creative gestation, says Marco, who was a professional actor in New York City for 28 years. More than two decades, in fact, and was born from a prompt in a BMI musical theatre workshop. “They told us to write a song for a character, and since I always loved the book, I chose Daisy Buchanan [Jay Gatsby’s lover]. Maybe I’m a feminist at heart, but I always felt that she got short shrift in the book. I gave her character a heart.”

One song led to writing the first act of what would become “The Great Gatsby: An American Musical.” There was even a staged reading in Manhattan. But due to legal complications and the astronomical cost of securing the rights, the project was shelved for 20 years, he says. Everything changed, however,

when “The Great Gatsby” became public domain in 2021 after the 95-year United States copyright was up. At that point, Marco decided that the time was right to revisit the oncepromising and never-forgotten project. So he dusted off the script, reached out to composer Frank Schiro, whom he had met at the workshop years ago and said, “Let’s get crackin’.”

Because “the storytelling was solid,” only minor tweaks were needed, he explains. Now the next big challenge was to find a theatre to stage the musical.

He chuckles as he recalls the

reaction of his Marblehead friend Doug Hill, one of the show’s producers, when he approached him with the book and lyrics. “Little did I know he was a Fitzgerald aficionado. I’m sure he was internally rolling his eyes when I gave it to him and said, ‘All right I’ll read it.’” And the rest is history.

Marveling at how smoothly the musical coalesced, Marco says thoughtfully, “I believe that when things fall into place you have to pay attention and this did. I know writers who can paper their walls with rejections. Myself included. I

showed this script to literally one person — Doug — and the team, including director Alexandra Dietrich, music director David Flowers and choreographer Will Fafard, just came together.”

Dietrich adds: “The wonderful thing about directing a world premiere is that you get to set the vision that the audience sees, what the characters get to do. The hitch is that this is ‘The Great Gatsby,’ the first piece of literature many people were exposed to in high school,” and they carry their own interpretations of this story.

“I think our cast is approaching this material with fresh takes on why someone would stay in a relationship that isn’t going anywhere as Daisy does,” continues Dietrich, who directed “Jesus Christ Superstar” for MLT four years ago. “Love has been paused for one person and not paused for another. Jay Gatsby goes to war and thinks that Daisy will be there for him when he returns. These are two people who don’t live life at the same speed. I think Fred and Frank did a wonderful job of giving the character of Daisy more depth than past adaptations.”

Marco characterizes his hopes about the new musical as grounded and realistic. Of course, if it makes its way to Broadway, it would be a dream come true. In the meantime, he has reached out to 21 regional theaters about the musical.

“I am open to a regional transfer. I’m trying to let go of results and doing my due diligence. This is an incredible gift that the MLT has given me,” he said. “I would have to sell a kidney if I wanted to do this in New York City!”

“The Great Gatsby, An American Musical” will run June 23 to July 2 at Marblehead Little Theatre, 12 School St. For more information, visit mltlive. com.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Alexandra Dietrich, right, is directing Fred Anthony Marco’s ‘The Great Gatsby: An American Musical,’ opening June 23 at MLT.