08.27.2025 - Volume 3, Issue 40

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FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

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Leaders, teachers share back-toschool rituals

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MOURNING

Hundreds gather for heartbreaking vigil 13-year-old girl killed in alleged drunk driving crash

BY LEIGH BLANDER About 300 people gathered with candles and flowers at Devereux Beach Sunday evening to celebrate the brief but bright life of Savanah Gatchell of Marblehead. The 13-year-old was killed in an alleged drunk driving crash on Aug. 19. A 16-year-old is the accused driver.

As the waves crashed nearby, students, families, teachers and faith leaders gathered in a circle.

Gatchell’s mother, Christine, and sister Alyssa Otero, were there.

Rev. Lindsay Popperson of Old North Church read a statement from the family.

“We especially want to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to the Marblehead community,” Popperson read.

“Although Savanah’s life here on earth was short, her light shone VIGIL, P. 2

CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER

A memorial to Savanah Gatchell was set up at Devereux Beach Sunday night with her photo, flowers and candles.

PAGENTRY AND PATRIOTISM

Marines’ 250th birthday marked at rousing ceremony

Friends and neighbors of Savanah Gatchell toss flowers into the waves at an emotional candlelight vigil Sunday night.

EDUCATION

Union pushes back against new school day schedule

BY LEIGH BLANDER

CURRENT PHOTOS / GREY COLLINS

The Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performs for the crowd at Fort Sewall during ceremonies to honor the Corps’ 250th birthday on Aug. 21.

BY GREY COLLINS Marblehead locals, veterans and patriots from around New England gathered to watch the official opening of Marine Week Boston at historic Fort Sewall on Thursday, Aug. 21.

The U.S. Marine Corps put on a show to celebrate their 250th birthday, including performances from the Quantico Marine Band, color guard, speeches, a jet flyover and more.

The day started at 4:30 p.m., with a performance of “God Bless America” by the Quantico Marine Band, which was followed by the National Anthem. In one of the most anticipated moments of the day, four

After Superintendent John Robidoux announced new student arrival and school start times last week, the teachers union filed an unfair labor practice complaint and accused the committee and its lawyer of ignoring educators and families.

“On Thursday night, the Marblehead School Committee unilaterally imposed changes to the start and end times of the school day, despite having previously acknowledged in the recent contract settlement that the issue was subject to bargaining with the Marblehead Education Association,” a statement issued by the MEA read.

“Educators, students and families are exhausted by the Marblehead School Committee’s refusal to listen,” said MEA Co-president and Glover School teacher Sally Shevory. “We offered a fair compromise, yet the committee chose conflict over collaboration. The result is chaos, disruption and deeper divisions.”

Robidoux alerted parents to the new schedule in an Aug. 22 email.

“The revised student start times will facilitate an additional recess at the early elementary level and ensure compliance with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s student learning time requirements across all grade levels,” he explained.

It was not immediately clear why the Veterans and High School schedules changed, given that those schools do not have recess.

According to the MEA, the teachers’ new

Reenactors from Marblehead’s Glover’s Regiment fire ceremonial

MARINES, P. 2 musket shots to honor the U.S. Marine Corps

SCHOOL DAY, P. 3

EDUCATION

District outlines AI expectations as students return to class

BY AKANKSHA GOYAL Families across Marblehead were expected to receive updated student and family handbooks before the start of school on Aug. 27, with one notable change for the elementary level. For the first time, the documents include

expectations around artificial intelligence.

Assistant Superintendent for Learning Julia Ferreira said the district is relying on academic integrity expectations rather than a separate AI policy. These guidelines, already in place at Veterans Middle and Marblehead High School, are now being

extended to younger students.

“Previous to our work this year, they were not in elementary handbooks,” she said.

Ferreira said the opening lines of the handbook’s academic integrity section are the most important. They emphasize that students should be able to say

their work is their own unless otherwise indicated and that plagiarism is taking another person’s work or ideas and presenting them as original.

The principle itself, she added, is longstanding, but the technology driving student work has changed.

A recent Pew Research Center

Be sure to visit MarbleheadCurrent.org for all the latest news.

survey illustrates that shift, finding that 26% of U.S. teens now report using ChatGPT for schoolwork, doubling from 13% in 2023.

Marblehead began focusing more intentionally on AI two years ago, when district

This summer, there will be special content online that does not appear in print. Be sure to check it out!

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

AI, P. 7

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2 Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Marblehead Current

NEWS IN BRIEF Egypt House told to tidy up complaint A U.S. District Court judge has temporarily dismissed the complaint filed by Egypt House, the Orthodox Catholic chapel and monastic residence on Conant Road, against multiple Marblehead town officials and their legal counsel because that complaint was too voluminous and improperly included legal arguments and unnecessary information.

Judge Brian E. Murphy gave Egypt House 21 days from his Aug. 14 order to refile its complaint after removing all or most of the attached exhibits and excising the legal arguments.

Egypt House’s complaint deals with an order the state’s Appellate Tax Board issued permitting an inspection of the property after Egypt House sought an abatement of its local property taxes on the ground that it was using the property for religious purposes.

In its original complaint filed March 12, Egypt House explained that it was seeking protection of the court to prevent the resulting “desecration” of the property if the inspection proceeded.

The complaint also named as a defendant the chairman of the ATB. Egypt House also alleges that the town and the ATB have

engaged in a “pattern and practice of harassment of religious practice and privacy.”

Egypt House sought a preliminary injunction to impose conditions on the inspection and to put its ATB proceedings on hold pending a hearing on the preliminary injunction motion.

But Murphy denied both requests on May 1.

In his Aug. 14 ruling, Murphy noted that federal judges have power to dismiss a complaint when a plaintiff fails to comply with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, including the requirement that complaints be a “short and plain statement.”

“Here, the complaint is 423 pages, of which nearly 400 pages are exhibits that [Egypt House] appears to expect the parties and the Court to sift through in order to fully ascertain her allegations,” Murphy wrote.

He continued, “The complaint also contains information that appears unconnected and unnecessary to the claims asserted in the complaint.”

As an example, Murphy cited a sentence on Page 23 of the complaint, which references Egypt House’s superior, Fr. Andrew Bushell.

“While not the subject of this Complaint, a local police officer, should be instructed it is inappropriate to refer to a

bearded member of the local clergy as a ‘dirty Muslim,’ it should not be condoned that a municipal employee can parody the local clergy on the internet, nor should it be tolerated that a member of the Board of Selectman [sic] states in public the facts disclosed on a financial statement,” the sentence reads.

The complaint also improperly includes legal arguments and quotes extensively from caselaw, Murphy added.

Murphy noted that if Egypt House files an amended complaint, he would not be reviewing it using the more lenient standards usually applied to nonlawyers who are representing themselves because Tracey M.A. Stockton, general counsel to St. Paul’s Foundation and counsel to its affiliates like Egypt House, is an attorney.

Gingle joins Y board

Marblehead’s Amy Gingle, a nonprofit fundraising expert with nearly 20 years of development experience, has been named to the Lynch-van Otterloo YMCA board of directors, announced board chair Pat Milner.

Currently a senior director at the Orr Group, a full-service fundraising consulting firm, Gingle was previously senior director of research and pipeline development on the revenue

operations team at Year Up, a national workforce development organization.

Prior to Year Up, Gingle served as the associate director of prospect research and analytics at Massachusetts General Hospital.

She started her development career as a senior research analyst at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

“We are thrilled to add Amy to our team,” said Milner, who noted that the Y’s fundraising efforts work to offset the $800,000 in annual childcare scholarships, youth camperships and member assistance for those unable to fully pay. “She brings a wealth of advancement experience with nonprofit organizations, which depend on community investment to achieve their goals.

We look forward to the benefit of her counsel.”

She begins her first, three-year term this fall.

Gingle, who holds a B.S. in marketing from Suffolk University’s Sawyer Business School, also earned a certificate in nonprofit management and leadership from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice. She serves as a board member for Women in Development of Greater Boston.

She and her husband have two children, both of whom attended daycare and swim lessons at the Lynch-van Otterloo Y.

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT. CHAIR

Bob Peck NEWSROOM Editor - Leigh Blander

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Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

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Grey Collins CONTRIBUTORS

Stephen Bach Linda Bassett Laurie Fullerton James (Seamus) Hourihan Christine McCarriston Maggie Mulvihill Eyal Oren Pam Peterson Chris Stevens BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Virginia Buckingham - President Gene Arnould Brian Birke Cheryl Byrne Bob Peck Donna Rice David Vigneron Richard Weed - Treasurer EDITORIAL BOARD

Brian Birke Virginia Buckingham Kris Olson Bob Peck Joseph P. Kahn DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Kathryn Whorf

Marines From P. 1

F/A-18 Legacy Hornet fighter jets did a flyover of Fort Sewall, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Select Board member and Marine Corps veteran Moses Grader gave some brief remarks, speaking about how the Marines do not just create soldiers willing to serve our country but citizens who understand the importance of defending the U.S. Constitution and liberty.

“The Constitution is not only the letter and spirit of our law but also the moral compass by which every Marine is guided when in harm’s way, and when returning home,” Grader said.

Then he turned the microphone over to Select Board Chair Dan Fox, who read a proclamation, which honored the Marine Corps, recognized its shared history with the town, and declared Aug. 21, 2025, as Marine Corps Day in Marblehead.

State Sen. Brendan Crighton and state Rep. Jenny Armini read citations from the Massachusetts State House and Senate to celebrate the historic moment.

The guest of honor and keynote speaker was Congressman Seth Moulton, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the wake of 9/11. Moulton said his time in the Marines influenced him a great deal, teaching him important

Vigil From P. 1

bright.”

Popperson invited everyone to take a flower and throw it into the ocean. The shoreline quickly became covered in roses, carnations and more.

Christine Gatchell walked into the waves up to her knees, carrying a handful of flowers.

Many people were crying and consoling one another.

Popperson had messages for everyone at the gathering.

“Young people, you are never alone. There are so many people who want to show up — and are showing up — for you,” she said.

Addressing the adults, she added, “It is our job to look out for each other.”

Gatchell was killed Aug. 19 around 2:53 a.m. when the car she was riding in crashed into a stone wall in the area of 352 Atlantic Ave. She was declared dead at the scene, according to the Essex County District Attorney’s Office.

CURRENT PHOTO/GREY COLLINS

“Never give up the moral high ground’ is some of the best advice I’ve ever received,” keynote speaker Congressman Seth Moulton tells the crowd during the ceremony to mark the 250th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps on Aug. 21 at Fort Sewall.

lessons in leadership and courage that he has taken with him to Washington.

“The Marines ingrain into you the principles of integrity and moral courage, two things severely lacking from many people in politics today,” he said in an interview before the ceremony. “I simply would never have this job without the Marines.”

His service also showed him the consequences of poorly executed federal policies, an experience that eventually led him to politics.

“I didn’t study politics in school or grow up in a political family, but I felt I saw the consequences of failed leadership in Washington

Savanah “was very loving and kind, and saw the best in everybody,” her mother said last week. “She had a very big heart,” added her sister.

Suspect’s family ‘devastated’ The teen suspect was arraigned in Lynn Juvenile Court on charges of motor vehicle homicide, receiving a stolen motor vehicle, operating under the influence of liquor and two civil motor vehicle infractions.

Police and the District Attorney’s Office are not identifying the suspect because he is a minor. The Current does not publish nonpublic information about juvenile cases.

The suspect’s family is “just devastated and heartbroken” for the Gatchells, according to the 16-year-old’s attorney, James M. Igoe of Somerville.

The accused teen is in a local psychiatric hospital, Igoe told the Current.

“He was treated previously for erratic behavior” and had been

over my tours in Iraq, and that’s why I first ran for Congress,” said Moulton in an email to the Current.

During the celebration, Moulton recognized all those who volunteer to fight to preserve freedom and keep tyranny at bay at home and abroad.

“This anniversary reminds me that America’s strength has always come from our volunteers, those willing to sign up and serve, especially during challenging or divisive times when our freedoms are under threat,” said Moulton before the ceremony. “I was proud to serve after 9/11, and I admire those willing to serve in a variety of ways today as our

released recently, according to the attorney. Igoe did not get more specific about the timeline.

“This is a complete, complete disaster,” Igoe said. “The (suspect’s) family is overwhelmed with grief.”

Igoe also said online videos, allegedly posted by the driver, are not real.

Call for community conversation At an Aug. 21 School Committee meeting, Superintendent John Robidoux became emotional as he spoke about Gatchell’s death.

“I want to reiterate our sincere condolences to Savanah’s family at this very difficult time,” said a choked-up Robidoux. “Our newly developed district motto is ‘Moving Forward Together.’ This sad situation makes the motto even more pertinent and reminds us that we need to be there for one another and support each other in all aspects of our lives.”

Members of the community, including Board of Health

democracy is under threat at home.”

In his address, Moulton spoke about the history that Marblehead and the Marine Corps share, from crossing the Delaware in the Revolution to being the birthplace of Marine aviation in 1912.

Moulton also emphasized the values of hard work, courage and sacrifice that make the Marines special, and remembered the powerful lessons in moral courage that he and his fellow Marines learned in Iraq. In these turbulent times, Moulton believes it’s more important than ever to remember these lessons. “‘Never give up the moral high ground’ is some of the best advice I’ve ever received,” said Moulton in his address. “I can’t tell you how many times that proved true, that the moral dilemmas we faced were the most difficult and required the most courageous leadership. Being a good Marine, just like being a good citizen, is more important than ever right now in America.”

Following the congressman’s remarks, a ceremonial birthday cake was cut. The first piece was handed to Moulton, the guest of honor. The second piece was handed to Major Richard Brown, the oldest Marine in attendance.

To finish the ceremonies, the famed Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon performed silent exhibition drills for the spellbound audience.

Member Tom McMahon, implored the School Committee to organize a collective town board or committee to address concerns around underage drinking and driving.

“It’s not just a school issue… but it’s a Marblehead culture issue, and it’s one that we always brush under the rug,” McMahon said.

School Committee member Jenn Schaeffner expressed her concerns about the accident and said that she had already spoken to a member of the Select Board about forming a group of school leaders, Rec & Parks staff, police, possibly clergy and others to begin a discussion on how to mitigate the chances of such tragedies recurring.

Schaeffner said she would contact officials and members of the community to begin a discussion and report back to the committee at its next meeting on Sept. 4.

Bella Travaglini contributed reporting to this article.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, August 27, 2025 3

SELECT BOARD

New Housing Committee offers 3A update

BY LUCA TEDESCO At its first meeting Tuesday in the Select Board’s Meeting Room at Abbot Hall, the newly formed Marblehead Housing Committee got right down to business, giving an update on the town’s plan to deal with the MBTA Communities Act following the rejection of the town’s compliance plan in last month’s referendum.

The committee, formed through the merger of the Fair Housing Committee and the Housing Production Plan Implementation Committee, consists of 10 members: Alex Eitler, Deacon John Whipple, Cathy Hoog, Mimi Hollister, Kurt James, Debra Larkin, Nisha Austin, Bob Nuess, Ramon Garcia and Brendan Callahan. Callahan, the town’s director of community development and planning, was elected chair by the members of the committee, and Larkin took the role of interim secretary.

The meeting was called primarily to discuss the Select Board’s letter to the governor requesting an exemption from the zoning law, G.L.c. 40A, §3A. “It is our understanding that that letter is still circulating, and we are anticipating a response,” said Callahan.

Currently, the town’s lack of compliance with 3A has resulted in ineligibility for discretionary state grants. One of these grants, a $50,000 award given out under the guise of the Massachusetts

CURRENT PHOTOS/LUCA TEDESCO

The new Marblehead Housing Committee meets for the first time in the Select Board’s Meeting Room at Abbot Hall Aug. 19.

250 program, which was to be used for Marblehead’s “Sails and Stories” project, has already been rescinded.

“Identifying all of the different grants that [Marblehead] would be ineligible for is a moving target right now,” Callahan said during the committee’s discussion of potential noncompliance penalties. “We don’t have a confirmed list of everything.”

Due to the potential for a significant loss in state funding for important town projects, members of the committee and attendees asked Eitler, Marblehead’s town planner, whether a new compliance plan could be drafted in time to meet

Newly elected chair Brendan Callahan takes notes during the initial meeting of the Marblehead Housing Committee Aug. 19.

an end-of-year deadline to avoid an enforcement action by the attorney general.

“The window is closing very quickly for that,” said Eitler.

“I think the ability to put

something together is entirely dependent on: One, do we use the same plan, and two, if we choose not to use that plan and propose an alternate plan, do we have the data to back that up?”

As the town waits for a decision as to whether the governor’s office will grant an exemption, the Select Board and Community Development & Planning Department are preparing for the request to be denied.

“The Community Development Department is prepared to seek assistance [from the state] if we are to evaluate other potential districts outside of the three that are

currently on the table,” Callahan said. “We are waiting for the response from the state on the exemption and then from the Select Board as to how they want to proceed.”

Following the update on the town’s 3A noncompliance, the conversation shifted to the future of the Coffin School site.

“There’s definitely an interest in the private sector about what the town is doing with the property,” Callahan said. “I think you’re going to start seeing more discussion going on surrounding the Coffin School. It’s coming very much to the front burner.”

The Housing Committee will next meet on Sept. 9.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE

Former MPS director suing School Committee

BY BELLA TRAVAGLINI The Marblehead School Committee met in executive (private) session on Aug. 21 to discuss a lawsuit filed by the school department’s former human resource director.

Kelley Ferretti, who was fired in January, is seeking to have her two sons re-enrolled in Marblehead Public Schools and to be compensated for lost wages, alleging breach of contract and wrongful termination, according to the lawsuit filed on Aug. 20 in Essex County Superior Court.

Ferretti and her family reside in Beverly. During the hiring process, former Superintendent John Buckey agreed to enroll Ferretti’s children in Marblehead Public Schools as a “superintendent’s prerogative,” according to Ferretti’s complaint.

Marblehead Public Schools terminated Buckey before the agreement could be memorialized to grant enrollment through high school graduation for Ferretti’s sons, regardless of her employment status with the school district, the lawsuit alleges.

Attorney Justin Murphy of Boston is representing Ferretti and declined to comment on Friday, as did Robidoux.

A hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 27 in Lawrence Superior Court on Ferretti’s request for a preliminary injunction, which would allow her sons to return to MHS for their junior and sophomore years of high school, respectively.

Vote on roof subcommittee postponed The School Committee tabled a vote on appointing new

members to the High School Roof Project Subcommittee after member Schaeffner expressed concern that the slots were not more widely advertised.

School Committee Member Henry Gwazda, who will chair the Roof Subcommittee, was prepared to recommend two residents who had expressed interest for a position on the panel but agreed to go back and more widely advertise the openings in the hopes of garnering more interest.

Gwazda said that the project would continue to be handled by the Building Subcommittee until a fully formed Roof Committee could be established.

Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Mike Pfifferling said that prequalification responses to the request for proposals are due at noon Thursday, Aug. 28, starting a process that would establish

which interested contractors are qualified to bid on the project.

Robidoux was confident that the $14 million project was on track with work to begin in the summer of 2026.

Antidiscrimination group discussed There was continued discussion on how an antidiscrimination/antisemitism group would function in the district.

Robidoux, who noted that the formation of such a group is part of his formal evaluation goals, provided an update on steps he had already taken in meeting with parents, administrators, teachers and students to discuss their experiences and concerns.

The School Committee seemed to agree that the group would best operate in private, rather than in a public forum,

under Robidoux’s leadership, since participants would be more comfortable and forthcoming.

School Committee member Kate Schmeckpeper suggested that Robidoux report back to the board at the beginning of the new school year with a plan for the year, and to then provide quarterly updates.

Chair Al Williams said that the School Committee might still oversee the committee, and that discussion will continue.

Schaeffner asked members to review the recently adopted Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education K-12 recommendations addressing antisemitism and consider adopting them in the district.

Schaeffner will facilitate discussion at the next meeting.

Schedule set for appointing new School Committee member The School Committee and Select Board are inviting people to apply for the School Committee seat vacated by Brian Ota on July 31. Ota had one year remaining in his term.

People interested in being

School day From P. 1

contract stipulates that both sides will discuss and consider new start times. But MEA Co-President Jonathan Heller said that never happened.

However, the School Committee said in a statement on Sunday, “The new student arrival times were discussed by representatives of the union and the district in a Joint Management & Labor Committee this spring. This week, the superintendent announced the new student

appointed should send a cover letter and detailed resume to both the Select Board and School Committee. These can be sent via mail or email to the following addresses: » Office of the Select Board

– Attention Dan Fox » Abbot Hall,188 Washington St. » Marblehead MA 01945 » wileyk@marbleheadma.gov AND » School Administration

Office – Attention Al Williams » 9 Widger Road » Marblehead MA 01945 » williams.al@ marbleheadschools.org The deadline for submission is Friday, Sept. 5.

The Select Board and School Committee will hold a joint meeting on Wednesday, Sept.

10, to interview and appoint the new member. The individual appointed will serve until the municipal election in June 2026.

costly 18-day strike,” the MEA statement read. “The community voted overwhelmingly for new

leadership, but Thursday’s decision suggests the same old tactics remain.”

Superintendent John Robidoux sent out this new school schedule last week.

arrival times for this school year, in accordance with the November 2024 MOA between the parties.”

Compromise?

The MEA is offering the following compromise: to allow changes at Brown and Glover to expand recess while delaying other adjustments until negotiations are complete.

“The (Thursday night) action follows a landslide municipal election in which Marblehead voters ousted incumbents Alison Taylor and Sarah Fox in response to years of mistrust and a

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44 Wednesday, Wednesday, July August 23, 27, 2025 2025 Marblehead Marblehead Current Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

MARBLEHEAD MUSINGS

A town in If you don’t know where you are mourning and going, any path will take you there a tough call

BY JAMES (SEAMUS) HOURIHAN

Our community witnessed an almost unspeakable tragedy early last week. First and foremost was the loss of a beautiful 13-year-old girl, Savanah Gatchell, her promising young life cut short much too soon. To her family and friends, our sincerest condolences.

The 16-year-old driver in the crash that caused her death faces serious criminal charges, yet his family and friends are grieving deeply, too. The pain is widespread, and the healing process will surely be long and arduous for all concerned.

Our thoughts are also with the first responders and grief counselors who rose to the challenge when called upon and did so under the toughest of circumstances. You have our profound thanks.

In the immediate aftermath, the Current drew criticism from some quarters for not publishing the driver’s name. The argument seemed to be along the lines of, “everyone knows his identity, why hide it?” And that raises valid questions about standards and news judgment, both ours and others.

In response to one critic, Consulting Editor Kris Olson explained our reasoning. With minimal editing, we’d like to share his response with our readers: These are not easy decisions. We try to be principled, even when a particular choice would feed some people’s need for vengeance, or to bring shame on people. That’s perfectly understandable, especially with respect to Savanah’s family, given their unfathomable loss.

A main factor here is that the driver has been charged as a juvenile. Generally speaking, juvenile proceedings are private, unless and until a juvenile is charged as a “youthful offender.”

To do so, the DA’s Office would have to seek an indictment from a grand jury, a process that could take weeks.

In its reporting, the Current has repeatedly reached out to attorneys and the DA’s Office to be absolutely sure we understood the process because it was initially surprising to us that a juvenile could be charged with causing another person’s death and not be publicly named. But we have been assured that’s how the process is designed to work.

Another key concept in journalism is attribution. When you present something as fact, you have to tell people where that fact came from, so they can assess its credibility.

At a minimum, you would have to do what any responsible news outlet would do, which is to confirm the name from multiple authoritative sources.

A lot of people think they know the driver’s identity, and they may well be right. But news outlets must have higher standards. God forbid you ever *misidentified* a 16-year-old involved in a fatal crash. You would be sued out of existence.

It’s not just the Current, either. No other outlet we’re aware of has identified the driver.

Even if you could “report out” the driver’s identity (i.e., get confirmation from multiple authoritative sources), there is a separate but related ethical question as to whether that’s a project you should even embark on. It would mean investing time and resources in unmasking a juvenile the court system has said should not be unmasked. In the court’s estimation, juveniles (again, unless charged as “youthful offenders”) are entitled to that privacy, no matter who they are or may be related to.

Now, a news outlet could certainly violate that rule. But it should be very comfortable with its reasons for doing so. At this moment, we are not. Even so, we are continually reassessing that judgment.

We understand the desire to have the driver’s name be made public. Also, as any journalist would be, we are not entirely comfortable that there are some people who are “in the know” and some in the dark. Still, we are trying to be thoughtful, sensitive, and respectful to all these considerations and make the best decisions we can.

This was Kris’s summation of the Current’s position. We as an editorial board concur, even as our community continues to ask tough questions in mourning a tragic loss.

This headline originates from the conversation between Alice and the Cheshire Cat in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” written by Lewis Carroll. It implies that if you lack a clear destination or purpose, any path you choose will likely lead you to aimless wandering. Any regular reader of my columns knows that I will be talking about our stumbling, bumbling School Committee (SC). But I will also bring our equally adept Select Board (SB) into this discussion.

The question is whether these two “executive” bodies have strategic initiatives (SI) aligned with real critical issues facing the town? Do they have goals for these initiatives? Do they have schedules? As a backdrop to these questions, Town Administrator Kezar in his February State of the Half of the Town address identified humongous budget deficits in the years FY 2027 to FY 2030 – a cumulative deficit of $35.4M. So, the number one strategic issue facing the town must be MONEY. But what are the SB and SC doing about it? Their continued focus has been wandering and wading through administrative B.S. ranging from approving ill-conceived week-long street sweeping parking restrictions to the flagging flag policy which still is not “operationalized.” The SC has recently surfaced SIs. In fact, on three beautifully formatted pages there are four statements regarding mission, vision, core values and theory of action. There are also 29 SIs in five objective areas: » 1. Teaching and learning » 2. Professional culture » 3. DEI » 4. Technology and » 5. Facilities and operations.

But there are just 14 objectives across the 29 SIs. And all 14 objectives are goaled to be completed by exactly June 30, 2026. Are you dizzy now? But there are zero action plans. Who is going to make all 14 happen?

The SC can’t even get a simple flag policy implemented over nearly two years. None of the SIs deal with real strategic issues like funding, comparing our cost per student to comparable towns and understanding the curriculum used by the best performing schools in the state.

If you went looking on the old or new Marblehead

website for SB goals you will find nothing. In the 2024 Town Report (BTW, it is missing on the new website), there is nothing. There is only a narrative describing a bunch of activities. However, maybe there is hope. I recently stumbled across a July 18 th SB agenda which listed two items – “Review of FY 2025 Goals and FY 2026 Goal Setting.” Whoa! Who knew they had goals for FY 25?

Not to be outdone by the SC, the SB in their Aug. 13 meeting approved not five, but seven “goal areas.” One problem is that you can’t use one hand to remember them.

Another is the framework and terminology used by the SC and SB are different. The seven areas are: » 1. Good governance » 2. Communications and public engagement » 3. Finance and budgeting » 4. Capital planning and investment » 5. Community quality of life » 6. Workforce and human resources and » 7. Community development and economic growth Laudable but not sure what specific goals are behind these areas.

What’s missing is focus – a laser focus on a very small set of high priority SIs that address our most critical issues.

Each SI must have an Action Plan (AP) with an owner, an outline of the actions or steps that the plan will pursue and a schedule. Progress reports should be published quarterly.

Our municipal service organization and schools are both hamstrung by very modest property tax revenue increases of 2.5% and escalating operational costs well above this percentage. Consequently, both the SB and SC should each have SIs related to 1. Increasing revenue and 2.

Controlling/reducing costs. And since student academic performance/testing may be viewed as below peers, the SC should have an SI related to curriculum. And how about an SI related to increasing Town Meeting participation?

That’s a total of six. Doable?

Hope so! My next column, “New revenue opportunities – are there any that really make a difference?” will review new potential recurring income streams. What are they?

Are there any that make a difference? Given our dire financial situation, the town needs to be relentless in pursuing and protecting each and every revenue source available. And after that column, I’ll take a look at the cost side of the income statement. If you have ideas for new revenues or reducing costs, please send them to me at marbleheadmusing@gmail.com. I’ll report back.

GUEST COLUMN

A memorable afternoon at Fort Sewall

BY CARL D. GOODMAN On Thursday Aug. 21, the townspeople gathered at Fort Sewall in Marblehead to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Marines.

In addition to impressive performances by the Quantico Marine Band, the U.S. Marines were represented by

Col. J.J. Wilson, commanding officer of Special Purpose Marine AirGround Task Force-250, members of the Corps, a drill exhibition from the legendary Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon, and a flyover of Marine F/A18E/F Super Hornets.

Recognition resolutions were presented on behalf of the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives. A thoughtful speech by former Marine and current

Select Board Member Moses Grader outlined Marblehead’s contributions to the nation and Marine Corps starting with the Revolutionary War, the building of the first ship commissioned by Gen. George Washington, the schooner Hannah; the beginning of Marine aviation in August 1912 when Marine Lt. Alfred Cunningham took off from

And yet they want even more.

Public town ways are a means to let us less-blessed folks have access to the benefits and splendors of our town that the Sheas enjoy every single day. Why do a few people walking down that grassy path to sit on the public bench or swim in the public waters upset them so much?

I was there when those of us who believe in keeping open spaces open walked the small and quiet lanes and paths of the Neck this year to remind others that, even though they look private, they belong to all of us.

Our walk took place in a steady and persistent rain and was not pleasant.

It was, however, so very important.

Little did we know at the time that Mrs. Shea had prepared for our walk by strewing fresh dog feces the length of the wet grass to the water, ensuring that one or more of us would slip and fall into it.

This same couple planted arborvitae

across the entrance some time ago to prevent access. Thank God the town removed them.

The Sheas have now put up signs claiming the land as private and their own.

I will be curious about the legal resolution of this unnecessary fiasco, and would love to see the actual legal boundaries of the Sheas’ home. I can’t imagine it includes the public right-of-way.

Margo Steiner Washington Street

GOODMAN, P. 10

LETTERS

Think of the ‘less-blessed’ To the editor: I am trying to understand the situation on the Neck vis à vis the public way (Cove Lane). It seems to me that the Sheas want even more, when they already have so much.

They live on Marblehead Neck, an enclave for the well-to-do that most of us can only dream of.

They have a large and beautiful house, bigger and more luxurious than most of us.

They have a water view any time they wish to look at. Wouldn’t I love to have the same?

They have a large and beautiful lawn where they and their family can play badminton and croquet, and where their children or grandchildren can run and play and build forts and live the lives of the fortunate. I’d love to have a yard even a tenth the size.

When drinking culture becomes normal, our kids pay To the editor: Marblehead has known the LETTERS, P. 5

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, August 27, 2025 5

GUEST COLUMN

Improbably, cancer center a place of joy

BY CHRISTINE MCCARRISTON “My husband is so sad he doesn’t come here anymore, but he’ll be here Friday and is so happy.”

You might think this was overheard at a beach, theme park or some other place where people go to spend a wonderful day. So, you will probably be surprised it was at the Sophia Gordon Cancer Center at Lahey Medical Center, Peabody. But, if you’ve ever had to go there for cancer treatments or other infusions, you would understand the statement completely. The Center is a place of joy thanks to the doctors, nurses and medical technicians who work there.

It’s a place I’ve gotten to know well since September 2022 when I was diagnosed with three cancers. Surgery took care of two, but the ovarian cancer fought harder to stick around.

As I received treatment recently and overheard the woman’s comment to the nurses, I was struck by how wonderfully

true it is and completely surprising at the same time. Why would anyone miss coming to the Department of Oncology and Hematology?

Patients ring the bell when they complete treatments and don’t need to return. It feels like a miracle. Others get the infusions they need and may not need to come back. The point is it means you’re healthier and don’t need this care anymore.

But I got the meaning in her comment because I have never been depressed or sad to go to my appointments there. I got to ring the bell in 2023 after I was considered clear of the disease, but things change, and I am now getting my fourth round of chemotherapy meds. I told you my ovarian cancer is fighting to stick around. But the doctors, nurses and I are fighting back.

I actually look forward to seeing the staff who greet me with a smile, often a hug and remember my name. Last week, I had barely stepped into the long hallway entrance when the nurse who often does my labs bounced out of her doorway and yelled,

“Christine, come on down!” She made my day.

But these medical professionals go deeper than a name recall and a smile. They talk to you about you, the you outside of cancer or whatever brings you there. Then at your next appointment, they remember your conversations.

When my daughter was getting engaged, her soon-to-be fiancé told us about his plans and asked us to be there to enjoy the moment afterward. I told a nurse it was happening and, as expected, she was happy for my daughter and family.

I didn’t return to the center for two weeks, but as soon as she saw me (she was not my nurse that day), she asked excitedly about the engagement.

After a recent vacation, a nurse asked how it was… remembering it was with eight women in my family, an 8-year-old and only one man (cousin).

“Only girls and one guy,” she said, smiling.

Yes, my sister’s gift to her girls and her cousin Joe. I wonder how these nurses remember

little things about us patients and still do such a remarkable job caring for us medically. They see us. They know us. They care deeply about us. They make the visits more than bearable; they make them joyful. Really. They do. Trust me, I’ve been going for three years.

The patients also make it a happier place than it would seem to be. One regular, a costume designer by trade, comes dressed up for each of his appointments.

I saw him as the Scarecrow from “The Wizard of Oz.” I was sad I missed him as Glinda. I heard it was amazing! He takes pictures with his nurses and made them a calendar as a gift.

Recently, three nurses were having babies pretty much at the same time — all boys, too — and some patients gave them gifts. Another patient gave many of the nursing staff the book “The Women” by Kristin Hannah after she read it.

The care at the Sophia Gordon Cancer Center is top notch.

They work in pairs to doublecheck that each patient gets the correct medicine, blood or

whatever they need.

They all jump up when a bell rings or a machine buzzer goes off. “Thank you” is a word they say often because they are all helping each other happily.

I remember one time my mom and sister called while I was there. I was alone, and they were worried about that. I told them you’re never alone there.

You’re entertained by someone who knows you, talks to you, truly listens to and takes care of you. Always.

“Don’t worry,” I told my mom and sister. “I have lots of friends here.”

The staff and the feeling of independence going alone, which tells me I’m not too sickly and still can take care of myself despite this disease that has a hold on me for a while, makes my labs, doctor and infusion appointments pretty joyful. It’s true.

Just ask that patient who is happy to be coming back soon to see these wonderful people.

Christine McCarriston is a Marblehead resident and contributes regularly to the Current.

Letters

the influence.

Marblehead is strongest when we choose courage over comfort.

By facing this together, we can give our kids what they deserve: a community where they are safe, valued and guided by our example.

Cynthia Belmer Lorraine Terrace

usual distraction — be it the phone or otherwise — we are all guilty.

May we truly let ourselves see where we are, spiritually speaking.

Let us not make one person the scapegoat. It is easy to do.

I understand that there is the guilty, as charged.

When we take a life, it seems a life must be given.

Regardless of what we believe of the here and the thereafter, may we all SLOW DOWN and take notice.

I know I am.

I am grateful that my Anna was spared in front of the library yesterday.

The driver of the white car, you know who you are.

You are so blessed that my daughter was spared. Count your blessings this time.

Be FOREWARNED. You might not be so lucky next time!

Brendalee Baughman Broughton Road

small number of politicians but were never official Democratic Party positions and were frequently criticized even from within the party and by Jewish organizations.

Furthermore, claims about media control, “weaponizing” agencies, or restricting free speech have been made against both major parties over different periods.

Finally, the letter’s broad claims that dishonesty, hypocrisy and violence are intrinsic to “the Left” are unfounded and themselves perpetuate the sort of partisan polarization that the letter criticizes. These negative traits are not unique to any one movement or party. The use of charged terms like “fascism” as epithets reflects rising political polarization on both sides, not a calculated or coordinated campaign unique to Democrats.

Overall, the letter distorts history and oversimplifies complex issues to create a onesided, partisan narrative.

Stephen Bach Pitman Road

From P. 4

heartbreak of losing too many young lives to risky choices: drinking, cannabis, opioids and driving under the influence. If we want to keep our kids safe, we must look honestly at the culture around them.

On Halloween, it’s common to see alcohol handed out to parents in the streets while children walk beside them. What are we teaching our kids when we drink during Halloween walks?

The “Marblehead pour” at dinner or weekends on boats may feel normal to many adults, but our kids notice. When heavy drinking or casual cannabis use is treated as the norm, teens absorb the message that this is simply what grown-ups do. If our kids are watching us, what story do we want that drink or joint in our hand to tell them?

We cannot dismiss risky behavior with “teens will be teens” while failing to model better ourselves, and then expect them to make safer choices. Brain science shows adolescents rely more on the emotional part of the brain than the logical one. Drugs and alcohol only heighten this imbalance, making good decisions even harder.

I invite us to hold an honest, open town conversation with experts, parents and teens, so we can face this together.

Prevention can start with individuals asking themselves hard questions and with a community willing to shift the culture together. Some ideas to kick-start this include: » a parent agreement not to allow underage drinking or drug use at home. » student-led peer campaigns. » greater awareness of social host laws, which hold adults legally responsible if underage drinking happens in their homes. » volunteer-run safe-ride programs so no teen feels trapped in a dangerous situation. » education on opioids and fentanyl to prevent overdoses and save lives. » increased police patrols at night to deter impaired driving and protect the community. » adults modeling safer behavior by limiting drinking and avoiding driving under

Next time, you may not be lucky To the editor: I am writing in response to the loss of life of Savanah Gatchell.

Yesterday, I was picking up my daughter, no less precious than Savanah, from the library here in Marblehead.

Tuned into my spirit, I heard a warning. I saw in my rearview mirror that Anna was attempting to cross the intersection right in front of the library.

A car directly in front of the crossing stopped. The car directly in back of the car that stopped, however, was intent on pursuing the crosswalk, regardless of the life of my one and only daughter, Anna Grace, crossing.

The white BMW or Mercedes was intent on going around the car that stopped for my daughter.

Perilous times are here and coming. People, hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying.

“SLOW DOWN.” There is nothing more important than the life right in front of you, including your own.

The news of Savanah should burden our hearts. We are tooooo much in a hurry and too tuned out to what matters.

We need to stop and to listen to the voice that is telling us to stop and to listen.

I am included here. Oh, my G-d, what is happening?

I honked at the driver who thought about getting around the car that stopped. I wanted to follow that car and to take my anger out on the driver. My level-headed daughter told me otherwise — to let it go.

We are in desperate times, Marblehead, which call for desperate measures. Though we may want to make the driver the villain, we are all guilty of checking out and letting ourselves become inebriated by the times.

As much as we may want to accuse, may we all stand accused of becoming numb and checking out. It does not matter if the poison is alcohol or just the

AI gives ‘fascism’ letter failing grade To the editor: In response to Mark Ferrante’s rather explosive letter to the editor on Aug. 19, I decided to upload his rhetoric to a highly competent AI LLM (large language model), Perplexity, to check for point-by-point factual inaccuracies. Here is a 500-word summary of its analysis. For the full analysis, including links to primary sources, please see the version of this letter on the Current’s website.

The letter accuses Democrats of labeling Republican presidential candidates as fascists for 60 years, starting with Barry Goldwater in 1964, and claims this rhetoric has been a persistent strategy. In reality, while accusations of extremism and even fascism have surfaced during various political eras, these terms have not been a continuous, mainstream Democratic talking point. Their use has reflected the country’s political climate at specific times, and both parties have at times hurled similar accusations at each other.

The characterization that Democrats uniformly referred to migrant detention centers as “concentration camps” or called ICE the “Gestapo” is an exaggeration. Such comparisons were made by a subset of progressive activists and a

The letter also alleges that media coverage of Trump’s 2024 Madison Square Garden rally portrayed it as equivalent to the infamous 1939 Nazi rally in the same venue and that news outlets showed footage from the Nazi event during coverage of Trump’s rally. Although some columnists, commentators and critics invoked the historical parallel as a warning or form of rhetorical critique, major media sources generally made clear distinctions between the two events. The assertion that there was a coordinated effort to equate Trump’s rally directly with the Nazi rally is not accurate; coverage was more measured and nuanced.

Addressing use of the terms “dictator,” “Nazi,” and “Hitler” by progressives when referring to Trump or his supporters, it is true that some activists and opponents have drawn such extreme comparisons. However, leading Democratic politicians have generally avoided this kind of language, and when it has appeared, its use has been controversial, not a systematic or long-running campaign strategy.

The letter’s assertion that Democrats lack support for Israel is untrue. The Democratic Party’s official policy and voting record have consistently supported Israel’s right to exist and to self-defense, though there is growing open criticism among some progressives regarding Israeli government policy. Such critiques represent a democratic debate within the party, not a lack of basic support.

The letter lists a series of policies — such as open borders, vaccine mandates, DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), opposition to voter ID, and others — as “real fascism,” attributing blame entirely to Democrats. In fact, these are contemporary policy debates or administrative decisions, not evidence of fascist ideology.

Fascism, historically, is defined by authoritarianism, aggressive nationalism, suppression of dissent, and concentration of power; many items on this list do not meet that definition and are found in many types of democracies around the world.

Franklin’s words twisted beyond recognition To the editor: I write in response to the letter in the Current of Aug. 20

by Mark Ferrante titled, “Do you know what real facism looks like?” This is not a personal response, nor will I address everything in the letter. I will focus on the quote he begins with: “Last October, Christopher Tremoglie of the Washington Examiner freshened a famous centuries-old quote by Benjamin Franklin, ‘In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes — and Democrats labeling the Republican candidate a fascist.’”

“Freshened?” “Distorted” would be more accurate. Of course, Franklin never said anything like this; the Republican and Democratic parties did not exist when he wrote this in 1789. Here is the full quotation (from Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations): “Our constitution is now established, and has an appearance than promises permanency; but in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

For more information on the fragility of our form of government and on how other democracies have dissolved into dictatorships, I suggest to readers of the Current a small book by Timothy Snyder titled “On Tyranny.” If you have not already read it, do; you might learn something. I certainly did.

Tim Parker Arthur Avenue

marbleheadcurrent.org

6 Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Marblehead Current

EDUCATION

Educators share back-to-school rituals, hopes (Editor’s note: The participants in this feature provided their responses before the fatal crash that claimed the life of eighthgrader Savanah Gatchell.)

BY LEIGH BLANDER Students returned to Marblehead classrooms Wednesday, Aug. 27. As they were enjoying their final days of summer vacation, the Current contacted educators across the district to find out about their favorite back-to-school rituals and what they’re most looking forward to.

Superintendent John Robidoux

What was your favorite part of summer? Our recent administrator retreat was one favorite part of my summer. But spending time with my wife and our grandson last weekend was the best part so far.

Do you get nervous the night before the first day? Not really, after almost 30 years in education. I’m just excited to start the year!

Do you have any backto-school rituals? I have no real rituals, just try to get a good night’s sleep.

What are you most looking forward to this year? I’m looking forward to the district moving forward together!

What would you like parents to know about the new school year?

Students and staff can get ready for the start of school by bringing positive energy and excitement!

Marblehead High Principal Michele Carlson What was your favorite part of summer?

I love spending time with my family and friends (especially my grandchildren). I also enjoyed having time to reflect, reset and start planning for the upcoming year.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? Absolutely! I think a little nervous energy is part of what makes the start of the school year special. I want everything to go well for the students and staff. The anticipation reinforces just how important this work is and how lucky I am to have the opportunity to do it.

What back-to-school rituals do you have?

None really. I do try to get a good night’s sleep (although I usually toss and turn throughout the night in anticipation of the next day), and I start the morning with a big cup of iced coffee. I try to arrive early so I can be prepared for the day and be available to greet students and staff as they arrive at school.

COURTESY PHOTOS Village School teacher Jonathan Heller, shown here with

MHS English teacher Jenn Billings walks to work every first day of school.

one of his daughters, will likely be wearing some Vineyard Vines clothing on the first day.

New Veterans School Principal Matt Lavangie likes to go out for ice cream the night before the first day of school.

forward to starting my new role as principal of Marblehead Veterans Middle School. I’m excited to meet all the students and families at MVMS, as well as getting to know the community of Marblehead.

What would you like parents to know?

We’re excited to have their students as part of the MVMS community.

Staff and administration want all students to feel welcomed, supported and that they have a voice.

Glover School Principal Frank Kowalski

Glover School Principal Frank Kowalski starts every new school year by getting up early to watch the sunrise with a big cup of coffee.

What are you looking forward to this school year? I’m really looking forward to welcoming students and staff back into the building and feeling the energy that always fills the halls during those first few days. The building is so quiet over the summer, and I miss the energy in the building when school is in session.

With every new school year comes the chance to reconnect, grow as a community and ensure that every student feels supported in reaching their academic goals and developing as individuals.

I’m especially excited to keep moving forward with the work we’ve been doing around student voice, belonging and community engagement.

What else would you like parents to know?

I want parents to know how much we value their partnership. We truly believe that when schools and families work together, students benefit the most. Communication,

MHS English and drama teacher Ashley Skeffington likes to go out for breakfast on the first day of school.

Superintendent John Robidoux always tries to get a good night’s sleep before the first day of school.

trust and shared goals are key, and we are here to support every student’s growth, both academically and socially. I also encourage parents to reach out with any questions they have.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? I typically am not very nervous the night before the first day of school, but I have a feeling that this year may be different as I step into my new role.

What back-to-school rituals do you have?

Going out for ice cream with my family the night before. It is always a nice way to mark the end of summer vacation.

What are you most looking forward to this school year? I’m looking

Veterans School Principal Matt Lavangie What was your favorite part of summer?

Vacationing with my family in Aruba. We had a fantastic time and really enjoyed getting away as a family.

TOWN OF MARBLHEAD REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) Owner Project Manager (OPM) Services Mary Alley HVAC and Renovations Project Sealed proposals will be received at the Town Administrator’s Office, Abott Hall, 188 Washington Street, Marblehead, MA 01945 until 2:00 PM on Due September 11, 2025, for the purpose of providing Owner’s Project Management (OPM) Services for the design phase of the Mary Alley HVAC & Renovations Project, with the potential to continue services through the construction phase. Proposals shall be publicly logged at the above stated date and time. Any proposals received after the specified time will not be accepted.

The Request for Qualification package may be obtained from the Town’s Website www.marbleheadma.gov. Contact Allison Jenkins, Chief Procurement Officer by email to: Jenkinsa@marbleheadma. gov.

Proposals shall be endorsed with the name and business address of the firm and submitted in a sealed envelope which shall be labeled on

Legal Notice Site Plan Approval Public Hearing Marblehead Planning Board The Marblehead Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the application of Lisa & Daniel Jones for a site plan approval special permit for the construction of a roofed porch, new gazebo as an addition, and exterior steps located at 405 Ocean Avenue in the Shoreline Expanded Single Residence District. This public hearing will be held under Section 200-38 of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw on Tuesday September 9, 2025, at 7:00 pm in Abbot Hall at 188 Washington Street, Marblehead. This meeting will be in hybrid format. Project materials are available for download at the Town of Marblehead website Planning Board page https://www.marblehead.org/planning-board under the date of meeting link. Interested persons may attend and participate at the meeting or submit comments in writing electronically and sent to lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov. Comments will be read aloud and entered into the record.

Robert Schaeffner Chairman

the outside as: “Owner’s Project Management Services for the Mary Alley HVAC & Renovations Project ” and must be sent or delivered to: Town of Marblehead Abbot Hall Town Administrators’ Office 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945 Contract Documents will be available at www.marbleheadma.gov after 9:00 am on August 27, 2025.

The Town does not assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of bidding documents or for modifications to the bidding documents including electronic conversion.

Any contract issued in response to a successful proposal will be substantially in the same form as included in the package and is subject to approval by the Town. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

What was your favorite part of summer? The summer always gives me time to reflect, but most importantly, it allows me to wear my summer wardrobe to Glover, enjoy time around my yard and officiate many softball games. It is equally important for me to reconnect with Dawn and Lauren to explore ways to develop our relationship further, enabling us to better serve our students, teachers and the best community in Marblehead (the Glover community).

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? Each school year brings the internal butterflies and sleepless nights. I love it, as anxiety always brings excitement and the always lovely “unknown.” But knowing this is year two for me

and we amazingly had low turnover… we can continue to build and challenge each other.

What back-to-school rituals do you have?

My favorite back-toschool ritual is getting up earlier and seeing the sunrise with a big cup of coffee. I will be coming to Marblehead early, as I have found this day always to be a complete blur. But when the dust settles, I want it to be the best day for the students and all of the adults (parents/staff).

What are you most looking forward to this school year? I love to focus on building positive anticipation and creating a sense of excitement.

What’s new at Glover?

This summer at Glover has been busy, hectic and hot.

I enjoy surprises, so I am hesitant to brag about the “new,” so I will hold off as timeliness and projects occasionally hit snags.

What would you like parents to know? It’s almost game time! The Glover staff will be eager to welcome all of our students back. We are excited to see, yes, our parents again. Enjoy the last week of summer and look out for my first newsletter towards the end of the month.

Brown School Principal Mary Maxwell What are you looking forward to this school year? So many things!

I am very much looking forward to working together with the Brown School staff and PTO again! They are a phenomenal group of parents and educators who have worked hard to become the Brown School school of teachers and learners.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? More excitement than jitters, but yes, the running checklist in my brain is working overtime to make sure everything is in place for teachers, staff, kids and families on the first day.

What was your favorite part of summer? At work: Planning, organizing, setting year-long goals EDUCATORS, P. 7

TOWN OF MARBLEHEAD INVITATION FOR BID 26-04 MARY ALLEY BUILDING AND JACOBI COMMUNITY CENTER ROOF REPLACEMENT PROJECTS The Town of Marblehead invites sealed bids for removal and replacement of the Mary Alley Building and Jacobi Community Roofs.

Bids will be received until September 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the office of the Town Administrator, Abbot Hall, 188 Washington Street, Marblehead, MA and at the designated time and place publicly opened and recorded.

A bid deposit of at least five percent (5%) of the total project is required. A Labor and Materials Payment Bond and Performance Bond in the sum of 100% of the Contract Price will be required of the successful Bidder. Project is subject to compliance with prevailing wage requirements.

This solicitation is being conducted in accordance with the provisions of Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 149, and any resulting contract will be strictly awarded in accordance with the requirements of the solicitation. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all bids, including without limitation, nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced, or conditional bids. The Town reserves the right to waive all informalities not involving price, time, or changes in the scope of work and to negotiate contract terms with the successful bidder.

This project is being Electronically Bid (E-Bid). All bids shall be submitted online at www.biddocsonline.com. Hard copy bids will not be accepted by the Awarding Authority. Tutorials and instructions are available online at www.biddocsonline.com (click on the “Tutorial” tab at the bottom footer). For assistance, contact BidDocs ONLINE, Inc. at (978) 888-3350.

Bid Forms and Contract Documents in electronic form will be available at www.biddocs.com on August 27, 2025. Register, log in and search for the name of the project for a free, downloadable bid set. Neither Owner nor Architect/Engineer shall be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than BidDocs ONLINE, Inc. The Town does not assume any responsibility for errors or misinterpretations resulting from the use of incomplete sets of bidding documents or for modifications to the bidding documents including electronic conversion.

A Pre-Bid meeting will be held on September 2, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Mary Alley Building located at 7 Widger Road Marblehead MA 01945. Bidders shall examine all information and materials contained in and with this solicitation. Failure to do so shall be at the bidder’s risk.

Allison Jenkins Chief Procurement Officer

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, August 27, 2025 7

DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS

Howells embarks on career in music education

BY NANCY MARRS Even before he entered high school, Dan Howells had a deep love for music, and he knew he would pursue it in some way when he entered college. He credits his Marblehead High choir director Andrew Scoglio with instilling in him a strong appreciation for music and music making, and in the fall of 2021, Howells enrolled as a music education major with a concentration in vocal music at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts.

After graduating with summa cum laude honors in May, Howells will soon begin his career as a music teacher, and he hopes to inspire the next generation of young students.

Howells said he was academically challenged at Rutgers in a very competitive music program where he took

AI

From P. 1 leaders recognized it would have a significant impact on classrooms.

That led to professional development for teachers and the creation of an AI steering committee, a group of about 15 educators and administrators led by Ferreira. The committee’s work centered on supporting students in the responsible use of AI while also equipping teachers to guide them.

courses in music history, theory, orchestration and conducting, among others. “Each new concept and historical context deepened my appreciation and enthusiasm for the art,” said Howells.

Beyond the rigorous classes, he was involved in the Rutgers chapters of the National Association for Music Education and the American Choral Directors Association, where he gained valuable professional development experience. Howells also sang in the university’s Kirkpatrick Choir and was president of the Glee Club, which he found to be musically and socially fulfilling organizations.

To earn money for college during the summer, Howells worked at the YMCA Children’s Island Day Camp for several years, serving as the director of the counselor-in-training

Ferreira said staff training this fall will stress the importance of setting “clear parameters” in assignments about when — and whether — students can use AI. Monthly meetings will follow, giving teachers a place to ask questions and share approaches.

“We all want to prepare our students for the world after Marblehead Public Schools, which we know involves AI, but [it’s about] how they use it responsibly and within the parameters,” she said. “We’re trying to build this culture that

Educators From P. 6

with benchmarks for progress, figuring out how we can continue to move forward, and finding inspiration with colleagues in the education field… I LOVE summer work!

Outside of work: I love all the summer things! Longer days, going out for ice cream, sitting by the shore, hiking, reading for pleasure, cookouts and spending time with family.

What back-to-school rituals do you have? When everyone has left for the night and the building is quiet, I like to walk through all of the classrooms and learning spaces.

What is new this year at Brown? We have some new science experiences for our students to explore in the classrooms.

Our Leadership Council will continue to evolve in its second year with more community service opportunities. Our Friends of MPS grants include teacher training and parent night with Lynn Lyons, new soccer goals, new reading enrichment opportunities and a new outdoor creative playspace!

What else would you like parents to know? We are excited for another year of learning at the Brown School.

We want your experience and children’s experiences to be joyful, positive and productive. We are here for you, and we want you as our partners. Admittedly, we don’t always get it perfectly right, but we will always continue to learn and do our best to help your children reach their fullest potential as kind, brave, hardworking learners.

Village School teacher (and co-president of the Marblehead Education Association) Jonathan Heller What was your favorite part of summer? I direct a day camp on Captain’s Pond in Salem, New Hampshire, and this was my 25th summer. You really can’t beat being outside every day, working with incredible kids and staff. I get to look out at the pond from my office, and it’s hard to imagine a better daily view. One of the best parts this summer was having my youngest daughter at camp with me.

We have a 75-minute drive each way, and she’s turned into quite the DJ, playing her favorite songs and setting the tone for each day.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? Yes, I still get those first-day-of-school nerves. No matter how many first days I’ve had, there’s always that mix of excitement and anticipation.

program this summer and last.

One of his most memorable college experiences was traveling to Italy on a summer performance tour with the Glee Club at the end of his freshman year. “We performed in various venues around the country, including Milan, Venice and Rome,” states Howells.

“We even performed during a Mass at the Vatican.” After four amazing years at Rutgers, Howells is eager to begin teaching fifth through eighth grade choir and general music at Terril Middle School in Scotch Plains-Fanwood, New Jersey.

Long-term goals include earning a graduate degree and developing a strong middle or high school choral program somewhere along his career path.

“Guiding young students through the process of making music has been such a joyful experience for me, and I am so excited that I will get to do it for the rest of my life,” he explains.

Howells fell in love with Rutgers University right away, and he knew the expensive outout-of-state tuition would place a financial burden on his family.

Receiving scholarships for each of his four years made it possible

for him to pursue his passion at the school that was a perfect fit for him.

Attending college in New Jersey allowed him to gain maturity and independence, and though he was far from home, he said it felt great knowing he was supported by the scholarship organization and the citizens of Marblehead who donate and make scholarships like his possible.

“I just want to say how truly grateful I am for the support I received from Marblehead Dollars for Scholars,” Howells reflects. “I hope to give back to the next generation the way Marblehead gave to me.

Thank you for helping make my education and pursuit of my passion possible.”

values learning and at the same time accepts that technology is a huge part of a student’s educational experience.”

For parents, Ferreira said the guidelines will be clear in handbooks and reinforced in district newsletters.

“AI will be a feature in my next family newsletter,” she said. “We want to embrace it but at the same time recognize that the parameters are important for learning.”

She encouraged families to start conversations at home

about when and how AI is appropriate to use, especially as students gain access to computers and phones.

Consequences for misuse fall under existing discipline categories for academic dishonesty.

“The expectations aren’t really changing in terms of holding our students accountable when they’re not producing authentic or submitting authentic work,” Ferreira said.

At the middle and high school levels, staff have already woven AI

and digital literacy into technologybased classes and expect to step up that focus this year.

Ferreira emphasized that Marblehead’s approach mirrors what’s happening statewide.

The state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education launched its own AI task force in 2024, and Ferreira said Marblehead’s work already mirrors its recommendations.

“I feel good about where we’re at right now, but of course, we always will continue to reflect and adapt as needed,” she said.

COURTESY PHOTO

Dan Howells is starting his career as a music teacher.

What back-to-school rituals do you have? I like to keep things simple leading up to the start of school. I stick to my usual routine, spend time with my family and try to get a good night of sleep so I’m ready for the year ahead. I don’t have a lucky outfit, but I do love wearing my Vineyard Vines clothes. I usually get a few new shirts for my birthday over the summer to start the school year off fresh. I’ll take out my iron to make sure everything is neat and ready for the first day.

What are you most looking forward to this school year? I’m looking forward to reconnecting with my colleagues and getting to know my new students. The start of the school year always brings a sense of renewal and possibility. I’m excited to create a positive, welcoming classroom environment where students feel safe to take risks, work hard and support one another. Building a strong team culture is really important to me, and I can’t wait to help each student feel like they are part of something meaningful.

What would you like parents and students to know? I want my students to come to school ready to give their personal best each day. I hope they challenge themselves, stay curious and understand that it’s absolutely OK to make mistakes and ask for help. That’s how learning happens. For parents, I want them to know that I’m here to support their children and that we’re all on the same team. Open communication and partnership go a long way in helping students thrive.

Village School teacher Mary Miles

What was your favorite part of summer? I paddleboarded all around Marblehead Harbor and Sand Dollar Cove. I love collecting shells and picking up and disposing of trash. It’s important to keep the harbor clean for our varied marine life.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? No, I used to, but now I feel excited for fall and a fresh year.

What back-to-school rituals do you have? I always choose my outfit the night before, and I read a nonfiction book every night. My favorite topics are anthropology, psychology and science.

What are you most looking forward to this school year? I have a brand new teaching partner fresh out of UMassAmherst, where I also attended. She is super excited to start her career in Marblehead, a town she played against in lacrosse. I love her energy and enthusiasm and am excited for a new

Nancy Marrs is a member of the Marblehead Dollars for Scholars Board of Directors.

team.

What would you like your students and parents to know as everyone gets ready for school? Kids, start reading! It’s important to get your mind back into the habit and brush up on your reading skills if you’re lapsed over the summer. Abbot Library has a fresh new look and lots of exciting and current titles sure to catch your interest. Plus it’s air-conditioned.

See you all on the first day!

how much they have to offer this world.

Each child walks into the classroom with unique strengths, ideas and potential — and my goal is to help them see it for themselves. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a student light up when they realize they’re capable, valued and important. I look forward to helping every child find their own version of success, whatever that may look like for them.

Glover School teacher (and MEA co president) Sally Shevory

MHS English teacher Jenn Billings

What was your favorite part of summer? My favorite part of summer is the sense of peace and freedom it brings. I love watching sunsets — those quiet moments when the sky glows and everything feels calm. Spending time with my family makes it even better, whether we’re laughing over dinner or just enjoying each other’s company. Being out on my boat is the ultimate escape, where the water, fresh air and open horizon make the world feel wide and simple.

Most of all, I enjoy unplugging from all the noise and drama of town life, letting go of stress and reconnecting with what really matters.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day of school? Even after 50-plus years, the night before school starts still brings that same mix of excitement and nerves. There’s a feeling that anything can happen, that a fresh start is just hours away. It’s not just about sharpened pencils or new schedules; it’s the quiet buzz of possibility, of stories waiting to unfold. No matter how many first days have come and gone, that sense of anticipation never really fades.

It’s a reminder that change is always just around the corner, and there’s still something special about a new beginning.

Do you have any back-to-school rituals? My before-school ritual has really become quite boring now that I’m an empty nester. These days, it’s just me — laying out one outfit, packing my own bag and thinking only about my own day. I never realized how much I’d miss the chaos of getting my four sons ready for that first day. I used to pack special lunches, line up their outfits, triple-check backpacks and curse that long school supply list. It felt hectic at the time, but now I look back and miss that rush more than I ever expected. Who would’ve thought I’d actually miss scrambling to find the right colored folders or finding the just right pencil box?

What are you most looking forward to this school year? What I most look forward to in the school year is giving students the chance to discover just

What was your favorite part of summer? I got the chance to travel to Normandy, France, as well as Crested Butte, Colorado, Newport, Rhode Island, Mere Point, Maine, and Fire Island. Super lucky!

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? Of course! Inside every teacher lives a student on the first day of school.

What back-to-school rituals do you have? My ritual includes walking to school instead of driving — starting the day outside is the best antidote for any worries. Nature never disappoints.

What are you most looking forward to this school year? As someone who teaches all grades — I love seeing my former students when they come through the halls. Plus, I’m eager to help my freshmen who might need assurance that they will find a friend at lunch and figure out the stairwells.

What would you like your students and parents to know as everyone gets ready for school? Know that your teachers work really hard to create a place where it feels good to be a learner.

MHS English and drama teacher Ashley Skeffington

What was your favorite part of summer? Having downtime to spend with friends and family, going to the beach with my mom, directing Shakespeare in the park, reading for fun and painting with watercolors.

Do you still get nervous the night before the first day? Absolutely.

What back-to-school rituals do you have? I usually get up early on the first day of school and go get breakfast.

What are you most looking forward to this school year? Getting back to rehearsals for Drama Fest and the musical!

What would you like your students and parents to know as everyone gets ready for school? Life is too short for ChatGPT. Read the books!

marbleheadcurrent.org

8 Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Marblehead Current

READY TO ROLL

Bibbo, Michaud honored as COA unveils bocce park

BY GREY COLLINS The gymnasium at the Judy and Gene Jacobi Community Center Community was filled with music, laughter and warm speeches on Aug. 20 as hundreds of seniors and community members gathered to celebrate the opening and dedication of the Council on Aging’s new bocce park.

The park, which was completed in just six months and now sits behind the community center, includes two brand new turf bocce courts, a stone walkway and picnic tables.

Bocce is one of the most popular activities for the seniors at the COA, and the two new courts will give them higher quality turf playing fields.

In her remarks to the group, Council on Aging Executive Director Lisa Hooper praised the seniors who made the project possible with their years of organizing and growing the bocce program.

“This project is a true testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together,” she said.

Parks and Recreation Director Rossana Ferrante congratulated the seniors on the successful project. Then Marblehead senior and bocce player John Capellotti gave the group a presentation of the history of the COA bocce program.

Pat Bibbo, left, and Liz Michaud were honored as the Council on Aging unveiled its new bocce park on Aug. 20.

The new park was dedicated to Pat Bibbo, who was one of the earliest and most impactful bocce players at the COA. Bibbo started playing bocce in 2014, when the program was only one day per week and had just 14 players. He was hooked immediately.

“The camaraderie was just terrific,” recounted Bibbo.

Since then, he has enthusiastically led and helped

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grow the bocce program into a five-day operation with over 94 participants as the COA bocce coordinator. He even led the effort to build a travel team of senior bocce players to play seniors from Peabody and Danvers.

“He created something extraordinary,” said Janine Glabicky of Bibbo. “Pat isn’t just the organizer of this program; he is its heartbeat.”

“Bibbo” is carved onto the rock wall above the bocce courts, so that future players can remember Bibbo’s contributions for generations to come.

The Founder’s walkway was dedicated to Liz Michaud, who was the original founder of the bocce program in 2012, and has helped it grow over the last 13 years with leadership and

CURRENT PHOTO/GREY COLLINS

COURTESY PHOTO

The COA celebrated its new bocce court behind the Jacobi Community Center.

unstoppable energy.

“With your determination and unstoppable enthusiasm, you brought bocce to life,” said Glabicky. “The real gift isn’t bocce; the real gift is you. You’ve shown us all how to live fully as active seniors.”

Both Bibbo and Michaud were presented with their dedications by state Rep. Jenny Armini and Sen. Brendan Crighton, and received tearful standing ovations from the gathering.

“I’m just so humbled,” said Bibbo. “It means a lot to me.”

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marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, August 27, 2025 9

Sports LOCAL LEGEND

Bruce Dyson has conquered sea and sky

BY JULIE FLYNN Anyone who has ever been fortunate to have been in the presence of Bruce Dyson knows that he’s a force. International sailor, national gliding champion and sailmaker, Dyson is a legend.

He is also a past commodore of the Eastern Yacht Club (2015-2016), and he built an international 8-metre sloop, Pleione, in his garage/workshop.

Dyson started sailing competitively when he was 16 and worked for Hood Sailmakers in Little Harbor during school vacations.

“We called it the Ted Hood Sail Loft Academy,” he said.

After attending Northeastern University, he worked for Ted Hood for two years. In 1963, he founded Dyson Sailmakers on Sewall Street.

While at the helm of Dyson Sailmakers, Dyson formed a lifelong friendship with Norm Cressy, another wellknown sailmaker and sailor in Marblehead. “We were in competition with one another in the sailmaking business. When I ran out of material for sails, I’d call Norm. More often than not he had what I needed. And the reciprocal was also true. We would keep running ledgers.

We’d always settle up at the end of the month,” said Dyson.

One of the highlights of Dyson’s sailing career was going to the World Etchells

Bruce Dyson is an award-winning glider pilot

COURTESY PHOTOS

Bruce and Lianne Dyson, of Marblehead, have shared adventures in the sky and sea.

Bruce Dyson built an 8-metre sloop, Pleione, in his garage/workshop.

Championships in Australia to crew for David Curtis. “It was a big commitment to get there.

It was a two-week contest and between traveling and sailing, it was a three-week affair. I had a blast down there.” Dyson finished first crewing for David

Curtis in San Francisco, and the next year he finished second in Sydney, Australia.

After serving as commodore of Eastern Yacht Club, Dyson undertook a voyage of a different kind, building an 8-metre class yacht.

SPORTS IN BRIEF

SEASON PREVIEW

MHTV, Marblehead’s local access television station, is searching for local residents interested in joining its awardwinning MHS Sports on MHTV production team for the 202526 school year.

“Right now, we are looking for volunteers for the fall (high school sports) season, who are interested in announcing field hockey, volleyball and boys and girls soccer games, or in technical positions like running cameras, graphics or directing the entire production,” said MHTV Sports Producer Jon Caswell. “Experience isn’t necessary, but knowledge of the various sports we cover is very helpful.”

MHTV Sports is currently slated to cover three field hockey, volleyball and boys and girls soccer home games, along with four home football games, plus any home state tournament games.

Volunteers need to be available at least 30 minutes before games and also 30 minutes after games. Games may start anywhere between 4 and 7 p.m., depending on the sport.

The season starts in early September, so contact Caswell now by phone at 781-631-8213 or email him at jon@ marbleheadtv.org for more information or to sign up.

Marblehead Community Access and Media is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit that operates MHTV. MHTV offers hands-on video production training and access to equipment for the production of programming seen on Comcast Channels 8 and 1073 (HD), or Verizon Channels 28 and 2128 (HD).

For more information on programming, memberships and underwriting opportunities, visit MHTV on the web at marbleheadtv.org.

BY JOE MCCONNELL

“I always wanted a 12-metre, but I realized early on that I couldn’t even afford the beer and sandwiches for the boat, let alone maintaining it. So the next thing down was an 8-metre, which I knew I could afford.

I decided to build one with Leanne’s approval. Jim Taylor designed it. When I needed extra help, I’d call in my army of friends and away we’d go,” he said.

It took 6,000 man-hours to

construct Pleione. On May 9, 2004, the 48-foot boat was launched. Dyson then went on to sail the 8-metre in two World Championships at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto.

Dyson is also an awardwinning glider pilot. In the early 1970s, he took flying lessons in Salem, New Hampshire.

“We had a regatta canceled in Marblehead in the Tempest DYSON, P. 10

Volunteers needed Girls soccer prepping for for MHS Sports another winning campaign on MHTV Magicians open season against Masco on Sept. 3

Friends of Marblehead Hockey golf tournament

Friends of Marblehead Hockey is pleased to announce the return of its biennial Bud Orne Golf Tournament and Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Monday, Sept. 22, at the Tedesco Country Club. This year will mark the 20th gathering of this fun and important event.

Beyond providing camaraderie for the Marblehead hockey community and its alumni, the long-held fundraising goals of the club will always go toward college scholarships, supporting Marblehead Youth Hockey and assisting both the youth and high school teams with extras that support each of their SPORTS, P. 10

Lisa Wales is beginning her second year as head coach of the Marblehead High School girls soccer team, and after only a few days of practice she likes what she sees.

“The first few days have been great,” Wales said. “The girls are working hard, and the freshman class has come in ready to play.

But I have really been impressed with the entire team’s effort and preparedness for the season.”

These Magicians finished up with a 9-4-5 regular season record last fall and were the 10th seed in the Division 2 power rankings.

They then dropped a 2-1 double OT decision to Northampton (143-3), the 23rd seed, in the Round of 32 of the state tournament.

Turning the page to a new season, Wales welcomed 65 players to tryouts for the first day of practice on Aug. 18. They will eventually be sorted out to fill up the varsity and the two JV rosters.

Sydney Ball, Sadie Halpern and Ashley Mortensen are this year’s varsity captains.

The rosters are not etched in stone, according to Wales.

“We are still in the process of evaluating the players,” she said. “But we have 10 returning seniors, who are all strong players.”

Wales had scheduled four scrimmages to help determine the rosters, and one was against host North Reading on Aug. 21. The

FILE PHOTO

Marblehead High School girls soccer senior captain Sydney Ball looks to make a play during a game last year. Joining Ball as captains of this year’s team are classmates Sadie Halpern and Ashley Mortensen.

Marblehead girls ended up losing to the Hornets, 4-2. They then faced Pingree away from home two days later (after the Current’s press deadline), before taking on Hamilton-Wenham on Aug. 27 at 5 p.m., and Lynnfield on Aug. 29 at 2 p.m. Both these scrimmages are also road encounters.

Wales expects a lot from her girls this year.

“Our expectations are high this year, because we have a talented team,” the veteran coach said.

“The key for us is to remain healthy. We also have a core group of seniors that have the technical skills and experience to lead us this year.”

Wales singled out seniors

Courtney Hitscherich, Samara Dosch and Liv Carlson, along with the aforementioned captains. Juniors Ainsley McDonald, Callie Gilmore and Hailey Gilmore and sophomore Lucy McDonald are also included on the coach’s list of pivotal players.

Marblehead will remain on the road to open up the regular season against conference rival Masco in Boxford on Sept. 3 at 4 p.m. The Magicians will then be at North Andover on Saturday, Sept. 6, to take on the Scarlet Knights in a non-league contest at 3 p.m., before returning to Piper for the home opener versus rival Swampscott on Sept. 8 at 4 p.m.

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Marblehead Current

POLICE LOG

Scuffle aboard boat ends in splashdown Sunday, Aug. 10

6:53 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Rose Avenue to take a report of a missing license plate. The owner of the vehicle explained that sometime in the last two weeks, the front license plate had gone missing. He had only noticed it was gone when he went to open the garage and couldn’t because the sensor was attached to his front plate.

He was advised to contact the Registry of Motor Vehicles on Monday to alert them of missing plate and to request a new one.

Monday, Aug. 11

11:31 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Nicholson Street to speak to a resident about a neighbor dispute. The caller stated that she had been upstairs when she heard a pounding on her door.

It was a man known to police due to previous calls in the area.

The man demanded that the woman allow him to park by her house for approximately two hours. The woman began trying

to explain that the area in which the man wanted to park was a tow zone, and the man became incensed. The man’s girlfriend then walked up, and the women discussed the situation while the man continued to “scream and rant” about being unable to park where he wanted to. As the officer began to walk towards the man’s house, he could hear the man yelling out his window, “Go ahead and call the f—ing police; they are all afraid of me.

F— them.” After another officer arrived on scene, they knocked on the man’s door. He came out and resumed his rant about the parking situation. The officers were eventually able to convince the man to go inside and remain quiet.

11:36 a.m. An officer went to Pond Street to speak with a resident who had made a concerning statement to a National Grid employee. When the officer arrived, the man stated immediately that he knew why the officer was there and apologized profusely for the

statement. He explained that he was involved in a dispute with National Grid related to charges the company was claiming he owed, even though he had moved out of the address in question a long time ago. He said he had “lost his head” because the amount the company was claiming he owed was more than he could afford. He said that he was in the process of resolving the matter with National Grid and would be more careful with his words in the future.

Tuesday, Aug. 12

10:33 a.m. An officer was dispatched to the Council on Aging to speak to a woman who had been served a summons to appear in court related to allegedly owing over $16,000 in charges made to a credit card she had lost years earlier. The charges dated to April 2023.

The woman told the officer that she had never received any statements in the mail indicating that the charges had been made or that there was a balance due,

only finding out that her card had been compromised when she received the court summons.

A COA employee said she would help the woman respond to the summons.

11:18 a.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a woman whose husband had an L.L. Bean credit card opened in his name in the spring. They had been able to close the account before any charges had been made. Since then, they had received multiple Wells Fargo credit cards, but none were in either of their names.

The woman was advised about how to protect her Social Security number and how to file a report on the Federal Trade Commission’s website, identitytheft.gov.

11:43 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Ferry Lane to investigate a report of an unwanted man found aboard a boat. Upon arriving at the scene, the officer spoke with two men who were standing aboard their boat, Mistress Quickly.

One of the men explained that he had gotten off his boat to use the shower facilities at the harbormaster’s office and returned to find a man sitting on the back of his boat. As the boat owner approached, he asked the man what he was doing and ordered him off the boat. The man reportedly responded repeatedly by saying something to the effect of “I know what you said; I saw you earlier.” The boat owner said that he had never seen the man before in his life. The tension of their back and forth escalated, and a “mutual scuffle” ensued, according to the boat owner.

The boat owner said that he had launched himself and the stranger overboard, theorizing that he would have a better chance in a fight in the water due to his knowledge of the water, his age relative to the stranger and his state of sobriety. The boat owner could not tell if the stranger was intoxicated but POLICE, P. 11

MUNICIPAL MEETINGS

On the agenda On the Agenda provides a brief overview of upcoming meetings of Marblehead municipal boards and commissions, Meeting schedules and agendas are subject to change. For the most current list and for Zoom links to online or hybrid meetings, see marblehead.org/events.

Wednesday, Aug. 27

6 p.m.: Recreation & Parks Commission,

Goodman From P. 4

Marblehead in a Burgess Model H seaplane and the service of Marblehead residents as Marines throughout the storied history of our nation.

And then our Congressman Seth Moulton, the keynote speaker, shared his experience as a U.S. Marine, service universally respected by the large and enthusiastic crowd in attendance. He explained how he was inspired by a boyhood encounter with a Marine Cobra pilot who responded to young Moulton’s statement that the

From P. 9

programs. The club also contributes to several memorial and charitable funds.

Since 1994, FOMH has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in college scholarships to a worthy senior boy and girl hockey player.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include: » Lady Headers co-op goaltender and

From P. 9

class one Sunday afternoon, and we were bored so we went for a ride to New Hampshire. We saw a couple of gliders overhead and watched them land. We went into the office and said we’d like to go for a ride. The instructor said to put down $40 for a ride. I put the $40 down.

I climbed into the glider with an instructor and had my first glider ride. From the minute the wheel was off the ground I was hooked. After winning several contests, I won the Nationals Championships in Hobbs, New Mexico, in 1990.”

Soaring in a glider over a

Thursday, Aug. 28

10 a.m.: Tax Aid Committee, Jacobi Community Center SHINE room (in person only)

pilot was lucky by saying that he, the pilot, wasn’t lucky; he was good. The congressman explained that he learned then and later saw firsthand the importance of doing one’s job “good” and being good to those you serve. Nothing less is acceptable.

Unfortunately, the congressman followed up that inspirational story with partisan politics, sharing a possibly true encounter with a young person considering enlistment in the Marines but concerned about serving under “this commanderin-chief.” He explained that he advised the potential recruit that the service was

Sports

Dyson

Jacobi Community Center conference room (in person only) Agenda: Among other subjects, the commission is scheduled to get an update on an issue that arose at a Board of Health meeting regarding the lack of water quality testing at Riverhead Beach.

to the country and to advance the values enshrined in the Constitution and that this is the most important time to have “leaders in our armed services with smart minds and moral courage who may even have to disobey an unlawful order.”

Perhaps the congressman was hoping for a partisan cheer, but there was none — even from an overwhelmingly Democrat local electorate. The remark was disrespectful to the president of the United States, elected by the people pursuant to the very Constitution that the congressman swore to uphold — including the subordination of the military to the elected

Swampscott native Maureen “Moe” Bradley. » hockey pioneer and member of one of the first organized teams in town, the Barnegat Bruins, Richard Bridgeo. » star two-way player and two-time captain during the 2007-09 seasons Anders Gundersen. » co-captain and star defenseman of the 2011 state championship team Jake Kulevich. » 1981 co-captain and solid team builder

mountain range is not for the faint of heart. “There’s no engine. It’s quiet. It’s powerful.

You can go hundreds of miles without burning a drop of fuel,” said Bruce. “You have to be a little bit nuts to fly a glider. It’s a kind of feeling you can’t get from any other field of aviation.

It’s unexplainable. But once you’ve done it, nobody can take it away from you,” he added.

Dyson credits his wife Leanne for being instrumental in both his successful gliding and sailing competitions.

“She was a consummate crew in both sailing and soaring.

Soaring is nothing more than three-dimensional sailing,” he said.

“Leanne and I would put the

Agenda: The committee will discuss a request for assistance.

11 a.m.: School Committee Policy Subcommittee, Widger Road administration building conference room (Zoom and in person) Agenda: In addition to scheduling policy review and updates for the upcoming school year and reviewing bulletins from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, the subcommittee is scheduled to review Policy ILD, which

civil government.

It was a crass political cheap shot across the bow of the ship of state. It ignored that this president has shown great support for our military and respect for and concern for the well-being for the men and women in uniform in sharp contrast to the prior commander-in-chief whose incompetence cost the lives of U.S. servicemen in the inept and disgraceful retreat and evacuation from Afghanistan and the indifference of the prior commander-in-chief’s then secretary of state to the loss of American lives in Benghazi due to the failure to station a Marine

with 82 career points Tom Kulevich, Jake’s dad.

While player spots for the Bud Orne Golf Tournament have already been filled, FOMH encourages those who are interested to still attend the cookout and Hall of Fame induction ceremony in the evening, beginning with cocktails at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets for the evening events are $40 per person and are available by calling Dana Tufts at 781-254-4017 or by going

glider together, and she’d be on the outboard end of the wing.

I’d be on the heavy, inboard end.

Leanne was the wing runner when it was time to take off.

They’d hook me up with a tow rope. She would run the wing until the plane got a little air speed so the wings wouldn’t drop to the ground and get scratched!”

Whenever Dyson was gliding in a competition and lost lift, when the glider wasn’t generating enough aerodynamic force to remain in the air, and had to land somewhere unplanned.

Leanne would go get him sometimes miles and miles out of the way. “I would stand ready for the call that he landed

deals with the rules around students submitting to surveys, analyses or evaluations, along with any related ​​ instructional materials.

1:30 p.m. Compensation Committee, Abbot Hall, town administrator’s office (in person only) Agenda: The committee will review and potentially vote on positions in the Department of Public Works, Water and Sewer Department, and Recreation and Parks Department.

security detachment there.

Had the congressman stayed the course of honoring the Marine Corps and Marblehead’s significant role in our nation’s history, he would have represented our district with honor. He chose otherwise.

The afternoon was rounded out and uplifted by a musket salute from the Glover’s Regiment, a present reminder of the continuing history of Marblehead in defense of shared values.

Retired attorney Carl D. Goodman is a longtime Marblehead resident, a former member of the Select Board and former chairman of the Board of Health.

online to friendsofmarbleheadhockey.org.

Hole sponsorships are also available.

Local rink discussions heating up Friends of Marblehead Hockey remains actively involved with the Headers for Home Ice initiative, and has taken a leadership role in discussions to construct a local indoor rink with NHL dimensions, complete with amenities.

As these discussions progress, more information will be made available.

in some field in such and such a town,” she said with a laugh.

“We had a small motor home that we would tow the glider trailer with so we’d always have someplace to live.”

Dyson’s longest run was 600 miles up and down the Allegheny Mountains. “The good news is that Leanne didn’t have to drive 300 miles to pick me up at the bottom end of the run.”

After 30 years of winning national and regional gliding championships, Dyson raced his last gliding contest in Uvalde, Texas. “I started thinking of the people we’d lost in the sport from midair collisions and landouts, and decided it was time to hang up my spurs. It was a big part of my life and a lot of fun

to do.”

These days Dyson isn’t slowing down. He continues his successful cabinetry business, working in historic homes all over Marblehead. He learned his craft from his father. “My dad basically gave me one quick lesson in terms of using heavy equipment: Keep your fingers attached to your hand and go for it.”

Bruce and Leanne have always made each other their top priority. “I tell her every night I’ve appreciated her assistance over the years. Leanne has kept me in line. Leanne is outstanding because she was dedicated, flexible and willing to do it,” he said.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, August 27, 2025 11

OBITUARIES after watching his father John received his Ph.D. in John Francis frugal rebuild his life while counting on physics from MIT in 1950. charity of his family.

His thesis was on improving Waymouth theJohn lived in San Juan, Puerto the reliability of the vacuum Rico for five years as his father tubes used in the first digital Jr., 99 learned a new profession: computer. During his years John Waymouth, a longtime resident of Marblehead who passed away on Aug. 20, was described by his late wife of 50 years, Frances O’Bannon Turner Pope Waymouth, as “a man of great compassion and courage.”

John was predeceased by his father, John Francis Waymouth; his mother, Margaret Postel Waymouth; and his brother, Laurens Samuel Waymouth.

John was born an American citizen on May 24, 1926, in Barahona, Dominican Republic.

He lived in the Dominican Republic until he was 5 years old, at which time the Depression caused his father to lose his job, and they were forced to live with relatives in Puerto Rico.

The Depression had a lifelong impact on John. He was forever

accounting. When he was 10 years old, they moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

In Baton Rouge, John became a lifelong LSU fan. He graduated from high school at the age of 16 and enrolled in college at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. He completed three years of study before he was drafted into the Army for World War II. John was a member of the 1st Cavalry Horse Division. He served in the Philippines and the Japanese Occupation force as a signal radio repair man. With this, he realized a love for the emerging field of electronics.

Upon returning from the war, he immediately returned to his university studies and received his undergraduate degree in 1947. He then enrolled at MIT that fall.

at MIT, he met and married Frances.

John was a devoted husband and father to four children and their spouses: John Francis Waymouth III (Jeff) and his wife, Katie; George and his wife, Wendy; Anne; and Mark and his wife, Lynda.

John cared for his wife through numerous illnesses while providing a stable and adventurous life for his family.

Summer vacations were often spent sailing the Atlantic coast.

John taught the values of family first, self-reliance and education through the example he set.

Later in life, John found his second love, Priscilla Bevins, and they enjoyed 13 years together traveling the world and celebrating each other’s company.

John was a world traveler.

He visited all seven continents, including a trip to the North Pole on a nuclear-powered ice breaker and a trip to Antarctica.

An avid amateur thespian, John was active in both the Magic Lantern and the Marblehead Little Theatre organizations.

Professionally, John brought light to the world as director of research for Sylvania. He received 60 patents during his career. He was the worldrenowned expert in electric discharge lamps. He authored a book by that title, which served as the preeminent industry source on the subject for years. The book was translated into five different languages.

John received global recognition for his achievements, including the Elenbass Award, the Illuminating Engineering Society IES Medal of achievement and the American Physical Society Will Allis Prize. These are the top

Savanah P. Gatchell, 13

spent her time hanging out with friends and playing volleyball.

Savanah, a gentle soul, cared deeply for others. She was compassionate and kind to those around her. Truly, her light shone bright in this world.

Savanah was always looking out for those she cared most about.

She enjoyed being with her family, friends and pets. Savanah had a natural gift for creative expression through art and fashion. She also greatly enjoyed cooking and baking, as well as tending to her cat, Tilly, and best K9 pal, Sadie.

Savanah loves her Lord &

Savior, Jesus Christ and spent her time here growing in her faith. The Lord called his beautiful, beloved daughter home. It was sudden and much sooner than we expected.

Savanah will be missed beyond words that can be spoken but we know we will see each other again at the appointed time.

Savanah is survived by her mother, Christine H. Gatchell, her sister and very best friend, Allysa M. Otero, her auntie Laura M. Gatchell, her cousin, Noah Cruz, other relatives, and many friends. She is predeceased by her grandfather, Ed, and

Savanah Patricia Gatchell, 13, of Marblehead, was called home by her Mighty King, Lord & Savior Jesus Christ on Aug. 19 from a car collision.

Savanah was born on November 5th, 2011, to Christine H. Gatchell in Salem. Savanah attended Marblehead Veterans Middle School and was entering eighth grade. She enjoyed going to school and really liked her recent math class. Savanah

awards in his field, and he is the only recipient ever to get all three.

Even with all these professional accomplishments, John felt his greatest accomplishment was the family he nurtured. A favorite saying was “I came to New England a single man, and look at me now.”

John is survived by his four children and their spouses, nine grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. In addition, John is survived by Priscilla Bevins’ children, Josh and Beth Bevins, as well as the good friends he made at The Bertram House, especially Ron Giroux.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date.

Donations can be made to John Bertram House, 29 Washington Square, Salem, MA 01970; or to Care Dimensions Hospice, 75 Sylvan St., Suite B-102, Danvers, MA 01923.

Fond memories and condolences may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com.

grandmother, Patty.

Visitation will take place on Friday, Aug. 29, 5-8 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. Her funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, Aug. 30 at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave. Her burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the animal shelter of your choosing in memory of Savanah’s love for animals. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Savanah’s family.

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS Buyer(s)

Seller(s)

Address

Date

Price

Cheryl Swanson

Ashley Jordan and Thomas McMahon

1 Gregory St.

Aug. 8

$1,600,000

Xinyu Chen and Jinzhu Zeng

16 May Street RT and Douglas P. Hurd

16 May St.

Aug. 4

$1,186,000

Marblehead

Lyndsay G. Dolan

22 Oak Street RT and Tyler A. Green

22 Oak St.

Aug. 8

$775,000

Linda R. Guarino

Jules G. Gosz RET and Paul L,. Guarino

30 Carlton Road

Aug. 7

$500,000

26 Sherwood Road RET and Irina Goldsher

26 Sherwood Road

Aug. 8

$1,140,000

Reuben Resnick

John B. and Johanne Paula

36 Kings Beach Terrace

Aug. 6

$710,000

Jeffrey L. Heath

Damon M. and Jennifer M. Seligson

228 Atlantic Ave.

Aug. 4

$1,785,000

Swampscott Greisy Cabrera and Patrice Heintz

Police From P. 10

stated that it seemed like he was, due to his repetitive speech and his unexplained presence on the boat. After both men got out of the water, the unknown man took off walking. The boat owner then called police and woke up his friend on the boat, who had slept through the whole ordeal. The boat owner declined medical attention.

Officers were able to track wet footprints from the dock at the harbormaster’s office, up Ferry Lane and onto Front Street before the trail ended. The man could not be found immediately, but officers planned to view security camera footage from Crosby’s Marketplace to try to identify him. The harbormaster was apprised of the situation the following morning.

Wednesday, Aug. 13

11:47 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Village Street Market to take a report about a young man who had shoplifted a $3 bottle of “super coffee” and a $1.50 ice cream sandwich, which had been captured on video. A Swampscott police sergeant helped make contact with the shoplifter and convey a verbal no-trespass order to the shoplifter, at the store owner’s request.

4:35 p.m. An officer was approached on Marion Road by a woman who reported seeing a woman strike a vehicle on

the corner of Marion Road and Rockaway Avenue, which had left a scratch on the front passenger side wheel. The officer contacted the vehicle’s owner and showed her the damage, which did not concern her. The officer told her there would be a report of the incident if she changed her mind.

Thursday, Aug. 14

4:34 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Gregory Street to speak to an interior designer who was having an issue with a contractor whom she had hired to do work at a client’s house in Boston. After finishing the first half of the job, the contractor was given payment for the second half of the job, as is customary, but then allegedly failed to complete the work. When the interior designer asked him about it, the contractor “told her a number of things that didn’t make any sense or have relevance” to her. She explained that she either just wanted the job to get finished or her money back.

4:52 p.m. An officer spoke at the station with a woman who had met a woman online who had been advising her on investments. The woman had been advised to deposit $4,200 in a website but, after she had done so, decided she did not want to invest it with the website anymore and requested a withdrawal. The website refused to turn the money over because it said it believed it was being used for “money

laundering.” The woman denied this and said she just wanted the money, which was still sitting in an account on the website, back. The information was shared with detectives for follow-up.

Friday, Aug. 15

9:24 a.m. An officer spoke with a woman who had been out for a run when a car filled with teenaged girls of “Asian descent” had driven at her as she tried to cross the street on Green Street and Tioga Way. The woman said she had to place her hand on the vehicle and yell at the driver that she needed to stop. She said that the girls laughed at her and told her to “f— off.” The officer said he would go to the area to look for the vehicle and see if any cameras had captured video of the incident.

10:50 a.m. An officer on proactive patrol on Maple Street ran a random license plate query on a vehicle approaching the traffic signal at Lafayette Street and found that the active registration plate belonged to a different vehicle than the one it was attached to.

After he pulled over the vehicle, the driver explained that he had borrowed the vehicle from its registered owner, as his car was in the shop. He helped the officer contact the owner, who had a mistaken understanding of how and whether he could transfer the plates from one vehicle to another. The officer seized the plates, the car was

towed, and the driver walked a short distance home.

10:55 a.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a man who had received a letter in the mail from a credit card company saying he was overdue on a payment of $84, when he had never applied for any credit cards and did not have any active cards in his name. The officer said he would forward the information to detectives for further assistance.

5:33 p.m. An officer was dispatched to the Coffin School on Turner Road to investigate a report that a group of kids had entered the vacant building.

The officer walked around outside the school and noticed an electric scooter at one of the entrance doors, which he seized. Moments later, two juveniles exited the school. The officer asked them what they were doing, and they said they were curious about what was inside the building. Other kids had run out the front door of the building and in the direction of Village Plaza.

6:40 p.m. An officer spoke with a young person about somebody who was “talking [crap]” to him on Snapchat, saying that he was going to come to his house and hurt him.

7:01 p.m. While on patrol on Lafayette Street, an officer noted a motorcycle without a license plate racing at approximately 50 mph, which the officer felt was “dangerously fast for this area.”

The motorcycle abruptly turned into the Glover School parking

lot, where two other men were waiting. The motorcycle rider explained that he and his friend had come to test drive the motorcycle before possibly purchasing it. The two men were “forthcoming and cooperative throughout the process, admitting that it was not smart to test drive without a license plate,” the officer wrote in his report. The motorcycle was towed from the scene.

Saturday, Aug. 16

2:44 p.m. An officer was dispatched to the intersection of Washington and Pleasant streets to investigate a report that a fire hydrant had been ripped out of the ground by a passing U-Haul truck. A witness reported seeing the small truck drive up on the curb to make room for passing traffic, damaging the hydrant in the process. The truck could not immediately be found. The Water Department arrived to repair the hydrant.

7:07 p.m. An officer spoke with a man who reported that he had been “just hanging out” on Front Street when a man came in through the front door, punched him in the face and then left. The man said that he did not want to press charges but did want the incident document because the other man had been texting him threatening messages and calling him nonstop. The officer advised him to come to the police station if another similar incident occurred in the future.

marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Marblehead Current

Custom Woodwork.

Timeless Quality.

For over 200 years, Marblehead Female Humane Society has remained faithful to its original mission of quietly and respectfully helping Marblehead residents in need.

If you’re struggling to pay your bills or are experiencing a sudden and unexpected financial hardship, we’re here to help.

Individual requests for financial assistance must be referred through a third party for consideration.

JOE D’EON Custom Woodworking Local References On Time & On Budget

781-956-2278

DeonHomeImprovement@gmail.com

We urge you to contact our partners listed below, or speak to your local clergy to request assistance from Marblehead Female Humane Society: Marblehead Counseling Center 781-631-8273

HOME • AUTO • YACHT • BUSINESS

Marblehead Housing Authority 781-631-2580

Loraine Roussin

Marblehead Council on Aging 781-631-6225 Marblehead Food Pantry 781-631-8340

www.marbleheadfemalehumanesociety.com

loraine@burkeins.com 18 Brown Street Salem, MA 01970-3830 T: 978-741-7800 F: 978-741-7805

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