FIRST WAVE
BY LEIGH BLANDER
A 15-year-old male student at Marblehead High School has been charged in a string of hateful graffiti incidents in the school’s bathrooms.
“We can now share that the
1 15-year-old MHS student is charged in racist, antisemitic graffiti.
acts of vandalism contained phallic images and the N-word, and drawn swastikas,”
Superintendent John Robidoux wrote to families Oct. 9.
Robidoux’s message continued: “Marblehead High School administration
2 Town loses out on nearly $3M in key grants
3 Where are they? Landscape company still doesn’t know fate of three workers detained by ICE.
was notified of each incident and immediately took action to remove the graffiti and investigate the incident.”
Marblehead Police sent out a statement announcing the charges Oct. 8.
“Based on the initial
4 Neighbors complain about temporary soccer lights at Village School.
investigation, it does not appear that anyone else was involved,” the statement read. “Police determined that there was no threat to the safety of staff or students.”
The student is charged with two counts of vandalism to
Callahan’s hat trick pushes Magicians to 35-14 victory
BY LUCA TEDESCO
BEVERLY – The Marblehead Magicians advanced to 5-0 on the season with a 35-14 conference win over the Beverly Panthers at Hurd Stadium on Saturday morning.
“I like the way the team responded,” said Marblehead Head Coach Jim Rudloff following the game. “I thought the kids did a nice job taking what Beverly was giving us.”
After forcing the Panthers to punt on their opening drive, Marblehead made a rare offensive miscue with quarterback Finn Gallup throwing his first interception of the season on his second passing attempt.
The Beverly offense took advantage of the short field, with quarterback Daniel Pierce being shoved into the end zone from the one-yard line to put the first points of the morning on the board.
Marblehead shook off the rust on their second possession, knocking almost five minutes off the clock on a ground-based drive before Gallup found Rylan Golden for a 10-yard touchdown, his fifth of the season,
BY LEIGH BLANDER
It has been more than a month since three local landscapers were taken into custody by ICE and FBI agents on Beach Street. Their employer, Alison Lasanna, tells the Current she has no idea where they are.
Marblehead’s Madden Lyons (9) makes the interception in the end zone on a fourth-and-20 pass play by Beverly. Lyons also intercepted a Hail Mary pass in the
“We are still awaiting further information and unfortunately do not have many updates to provide,” Williams said. “The situation is being handled by the families and their legal counsel. As far as we know, none of them have been released yet.”
The Current reached out to
Boston ICE to ask about the men, with no response.
Marblehead Police Chief Dennis King emphasized that his team has no jurisdiction over ICE actions in town. ICE did not alert local police about the action.
Williams said she appreciates
5 Tory’s Jewelry is about to turn 50.
property, tagging property and civil rights violations. He will appear in Lynn Juvenile Court at a later date, according to MPD. “Hate of any kind will not be tolerated in Marblehead Public
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The town has been notified that it will not be awarded $2.8 million in grants it applied for earlier this year. While no reason was given for the rejections, the grants required compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, according to Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer.
“The financial impacts are not abstract: they affect roads, safety, coastal resilience, historic preservation and many community priorities,”
Select Board Chair Dan Fox told the Current. “Losing out on millions of dollars in state grants means Marblehead will either have to rely much more heavily on local taxation or defer important projects.”
Here’s a list of grants denied:
» $999,320 for the construction phase of the Abbot Hall attic & accessibility project
$866,930 for Marblehead Rail Trail improvements
» $519,193 for coastal resilience work at State Street Landing and Tucker’s Wharf
» $301,050 for the redesign of Washington Street, from Five Corners intersection to Hooper Street.
a Five Corners intersection redesign of Washington Street from the Five Corners intersection to Hooper Street
» $50,000 for a Coffin School reuse/ redevelopment study
» $50,000 for a vacant storefront tax credit program
$30,000 for a downtown parking study
State Rep. Jennifer Armini of Marblehead reacted to the news, saying, “It’s a predictable but still disappointing outcome. My hope is that these lost opportunities are merely delayed.”
Fox said that the Planning Department is now considering new ways to meet the state’s 3A requirements. 3A was on the agenda for the Planning Board’s Oct. 14 meeting.
all the support from people in town.
“We want to sincerely thank the many folks in town and beyond who have very generously supported a GoFundMe that was started by one of our customers. Many folks have also called and sent letters and kind words of support,” Williams said.
“The funds that have been gathered are being used to pay for lawyers’ fees, and any remaining funds will be given directly to the families here to help with their other living expenses.”
COURTESY PHOTOS / DAN RYAN
Marblehead’s Breydan Callahan (13) eyes an opening behind the block of Tim Wales (2).
GRAFFITI, P. 2
Locals express relief after Israeli hostages released
BY LEIGH BLANDER AND SAOIRSE STALLINGS
The release of the Israeli hostages Monday prompted relief in the Marblehead Jewish community and beyond.
“We have been waiting for this day for more than two years,” said Marblehead teen David Magen, who organized a vigil for the hostages on Sunday at Abbot Hall with his friend Joseph Meltzer.
“There is nothing more important than reuniting the hostages with their families,” Magen told the Current. “Today should be a day that Jews around the world can finally rejoice and take a deep breath. A thank you is due to non-Jews and Jews alike for the constant effort to bringing everyone home. After 738 days, the hostages are finally free.”
Rabbi Michael Schwartz, of Temple Sinai expressed joy about the hostage release, but added,
“All the joy of this day is tinged with a hesitancy and a double sorrow. A first sorrow that the terrorist group Hamas caused so much suffering for Israelis and even more so for their own Palestinian people; and a second
sorrow that we Israelis were the instrument of so much suffering for those Palestinians in Gaza who would choose to live with us in peace.”
Rabbi David Meyer of Marblehead said, “Today’s events
CHAIR Bob Peck
give us a moment to pause, and to reflect on the possibilities of a hopeful tomorrow. As Jews, we’ve been called ‘prisoners of hope.’ So I am grateful for the blessing of seeing hostages returning to their dear ones, and still hold onto our hopes for peace for the future of our children, and our people and for the entire region.”
Magen and Meltzer started a nonprofit called Fighting Antisemitism in Schools.
About 25 people came out for the Sunday vigil. Speakers, including Magen, Meltzer and freshman Eve Magen, shared their experiences being young Jewish students.
”Hopefully this event, and the nonprofit as a whole, will reach more Jewish teens across America and empower them and teach them how to combat antisemitism,” David Magen said. Learn more about FAIS on Instagram at @fais.it.official.
Temporary Village School lights spark ‘coverup’ charge
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Tempers flared at the Oct. 7 Recreation & Parks Commission meeting when several Village School neighbors complained about temporary lights placed on a playing field for evening practices and games.
Marblehead Youth Soccer requested the lights so players could finish their practices and games even as the sun set earlier. The lights will be up at the Village middle field for the month of October, as needed, from about 6-7:30 p.m.
Because the lights are temporary, the request did not require any permits or notification of neighbors. Rec & Parks Commissioner Shelly Bedrossian (who lives in the area) said she hand-delivered notices to homes within 100 feet of the center of the field, as a courtesy. The letter asked neighbors to raise concerns within 14 days. None did.
However, several residents claimed Bedrossian never delivered a letter, even suggesting that they had reviewed their surveillance videos to make sure.
“So, we didn’t know about it,” said Jersey Street resident Lisa Seymour about the lights. “We had no chance to ask questions.”
She added, “It’s incredibly bright. I am blinded in my kitchen and my family room.” Seymour and others also
complained that the letter (which they say they saw only after contacting the Rec & Parks Department) contained errors, including incorrect dates.
Bedrossian emphasized that she did, in fact, deliver the letters and offered to “take a lie detector test” or “sign an affidavit.”
Resident Brian Gray accused the commission of “coming up
Schools,” Robidoux said. He added, “School officials will continue to collaborate with the Marblehead Police Department and our community partners to work to create and maintain a culture of acceptance, understanding and belonging. We appreciate our students and families partnering with us in this important work, too. We will use this opportunity to continue the conversation with Marblehead High School students through inclusive, meaningful teaching and learning opportunities.” Robidoux created an AntiDiscrimination Committee last spring that meets monthly. He said its primary focus now is on antisemitism.
with a sham process” to push through lights at the middle field at Village.
“This issue is not new to the town of Marblehead,” Gray said.
“And I recognize that not all of you grew up in Marblehead. You’re not Marbleheaders. The lights issue has been around since the 1980s.”
Commission members stated
A member of that committee, parent Yael Magen, said about the graffiti, “We must not only take reactive measures when these
recurring incidents occur but rather also proactive measures. Education and discipline are the key, and we must start treating
that they followed town policy. They acknowledged that some people claimed not to receive the letters and that a few details may have been incorrect.
Commissioner Chris Kennedy urged the neighbors to move forward and work with the Rec & Parks to find a solution.
“Let’s get to a point where we can get this figured out instead of you constantly having this accusatory verbiage and rhetoric,” Kennedy said. He later left the room.
Near the end of the meeting, Seymour read a letter she said was from another neighbor.
“I understand that we are all busy and mistakes are made, but the lack of courage to take ownership for this error and the subsequent coverup is, frankly, embarrassing,” she read.
At that point, Bedrossian left the room.
The commission agreed to look at ways to mitigate the impact of the lights, whether by lowering the stands or adding hoods.
Chair Rossana Ferrante emphasized that while the commission followed proper procedures, it would review the process in case there’s another request for lights at Village’s middle field.
“We have been put on notice that the community is very, very, very sensitive to it and would like to know,” she said. “We will take a different process next time, whether it’s required or not.”
antisemitism as a true disease that once again is destroying our societies. Hate for your religion is not acceptable in western society, in America, in Massachusetts and in Marblehead. We must not allow this incident to pass us by without it being a teaching moment in our district. We must make a district plan and take proactive actions to combat antisemitism in our schools. The writing is literally on the wall.”
Rev. James Bixby of Clifton Lutheran Church and the Marblehead Racial Justice Team added, “It’s critical that we lean on our mutual connections and solidarity with one another when hate symbols and words again find their way to our community. You are not alone, and together we are safer and better able to build a resilient Marblehead.”
to listen to your ideas. Please drop us a line and let us know what you would like to see in your community newspaper. Send your thoughts to info@marbleheadnews.org.
IN MEMORIAM Ed Bell, co-founder, co-chair (2022-2025)
Help keep the Current coming by scanning this QR code. Thank you!
COURTESY PHOTO
The MYSA requested these temporary lights at the middle field at Village School, so soccer players could finish their practices after sunset. The lights are off by 7:30 p.m., according to Rec & Parks.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER Neighbors of the Village School stood against the wall at an Oct. 7 Recreation & Parks Commission meeting to complain about temporary lights placed at a playing field.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
A 15-year-old student at MHS has been charged with scrawling racist, antisemitic graffiti in the school’s bathrooms.
CURRENT PHOTO / SAOIRSE STALLINGS
Two Marblehead teens organized a vigil at Abbot Hall Sunday for Israeli hostages, who were released the next day.
Harbormaster reports on safe summer, new patrol boat and more
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Harbormaster Mark Souza reported on an “amazing” summer on Marblehead waters, at the annual Harbormaster’s Breakfast at the Dolphin Yacht Club on Oct. 9. Public safety officials and leaders from the local yacht clubs and launch services were in attendance.
“We had one of our lowest calls-for-service seasons I’ve had since I’ve been here, so that shows safe boating, responsibility on the water and just a careful experience for everybody out there,” Souza said.
“There were no barge fires, no whales,” he added, prompting a laugh from the crowd of about 75 people. In the summer of 2024, the July 4 fireworks barge burst into flames and a deceased humpback whale came ashore not once, but twice.
New patrol boat Souza passed around photos of the town’s new patrol boat, which was purchased with a grant. The boat was built in Washington State and should arrive in Marblehead Harbor next month. It will be named the Stacey Clark, in honor of its predecessor.
The new boat has full firefighter capabilities and a communications center, according to Souza. “It’s an all aluminum craft, so it’s pretty durable.”
Souza also spoke about the town losing a $519,193 grant for a coastal resiliency project at State Street Landing and Tucker’s Wharf, where his office is located. The project will “provide seawall repair and updating, along with pier construction/repair. It would also have designs
for 30,50 and 70 year sea rise projections.” Souza added: “We’re still moving forward with it, and the Harbor and Waters Board has agreed to do whatever they can to fund it and bond it… We’ll need to find a resolution to the funding and how to get this, because it’s not ‘should we do this?’ It’s a ‘we have to do this’
project,” Souza said.
The town is using a new program to manage mooring waitlists.
“It should be a lot more seamless,” Souza added.
There are 1,800 moorings in Marblehead Harbor and another 1,200 on the Salem side. The wait for a mooring in Marblehead Harbor is about 20 years, he said.
Wrapping up his remarks, Souza thanked everyone who works and volunteers on the harbor.
“I cannot be happier
with what I do for a living and where I do it. I’m very proud of being part of this town. I’m not a resident, but I feel everybody here
Q: What to Do if Your Car Has Lost Performance or Fuel Economy?
makes me feel like I’m a part of the community. I try to convey that I care about this community as much as my job.”
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COURTESY PHOTO
This new patrol boat should arrive in Marblehead Harbor next month.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
Harbormaster Mark Souza, far right, delivered an update to the crowd at Dolphin Yacht Club Oct. 9.
Opinion
EDITORIAL
A teachable moment
We share the heartbreak and disappointment that the Marblehead High School community — and the broader community — has to confront a disturbing act of bias, the scrawling of swastikas, the n-word and other graffiti in the school’s bathrooms, for which a 15-year-old male student is facing juvenile charges.
Our local educators are no doubt familiar with a number of helpful online guides to assist educators in responding to such bias incidents, as Superintendent John Robidoux has already demonstrated an understanding of what a proper response looks like.
The Anti-Defamation League’s guide advises that, when describing the nature of the incident, school leaders should be “transparent and specific.”
“If slurs or offensive language were used, make sure to use censored words (for example, n-word, r-word) so that you do not perpetuate the harm,” the ADL’s guide adds.
(The Current, guided by the Associated Press Stylebook, has a similar policy.)
Robidoux is to be commended for letting the community know that it included swastikas and the n-word — along with “phallic images” — rather than using a nebulous term like “offensive” to describe the graffiti.
The ADL continues that school leaders should, “Denounce the incident and reaffirm your school’s values.” Robidoux stated, “Hate of any kind will not be tolerated in Marblehead Public Schools.”
The ADL then recommends, “When ready, present a clear plan of action moving forward.”
Robidoux has said that school officials would “continue to collaborate with the Marblehead Police Department and our community partners to work to create and maintain a culture of acceptance, understanding and belonging.”
He also welcomed the participation of students and families.
“We will use this opportunity to continue the conversation with Marblehead High School students through inclusive, meaningful teaching and learning opportunities,” he pledged.
We may learn more about the “action plan” at the School Committee’s Oct. 15 meeting, where an update on the graffiti incident is on the agenda.
The goal of such an action plan, the ADL explains, is “to facilitate deeper understanding and valuable learning for those involved.”
“When students get ‘caught’ saying or doing something inappropriate or unacceptable, they are usually able to respond in ways that we, as adults, want to hear. However, that doesn’t mean learning, empathy or healing has taken place,” the ADL notes.
The ADL stresses, “It is never too late for students to learn.”
Understanding how and why bias is harmful is essential to long-term learning and change, the ADL adds.
In the days ahead, students will be reminded that Adolf Hitler in 1920 adopted the swastika as the primary symbol for the Nazi Party in Germany, including the symbol on the Nazi flag. Under that banner, the Nazis engaged in an increasingly violent campaign of legalized discrimination against certain social groups based on religion, ethnicity, political beliefs, ability and sexual orientation, which culminated in the state-sponsored mass murder of around six million Jews and millions of other people belonging to “undesirable” groups, including children.
White supremacist groups in the United States today, particularly neo-Nazis, continue to display the swastika to praise Hitler and Nazi Germany’s discriminatory practices and to express hate for Jews, people of color, people with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
“These groups and the individuals that adhere to them pose a threat to the safety and well-being of all, in particular those who belong to marginalized communities,” the ADL explains.
As for the n-word, it can be the source of confusion for young people, who may have heard hip-hop artists and Black people more generally reclaim it in their song lyrics and private conversations, the ADL notes.
Black writers have written and spoken eloquently about why white people using the n-word is so different.
In a piece titled, “If You Truly Knew What the N-word Meant to Our Ancestors, You’d NEVER Use It,” the editor and author Brando Simeo Starkey recounted reading slave narratives to explore the lives of black agricultural workers after the end of the Civil War.
What those narratives illustrated was white people’s “campaign of mental terrorism” in which the n-word was a primary weapon to indoctrinate those workers into accepting their supposed inferiority.
“Now, whenever I hear the epithet, a visual and emotional representation of the heinous process by which a people — my people — were induced to think they were less than trespasses into my thoughts,” Starkey writes.
Responding to a question at a book event, the writer Ta-Nehisi Coates explained that, for white people, there’s “a lot to be learned” from refraining from signing along with the n-word in hip-hop lyrics.
“When you’re white in this country, you’re taught that everything belongs to you,” he said. “You think you have a right to everything.”
Stopping short of singing along, Coates suggested, “will give you just a little peek into the world of what it means to be Black, because to be Black is to walk through the world and watch people doing things that you cannot do.”
Our thoughts are with our educators as they convene these important conversations in the days and weeks ahead. You have our support.
EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY
A decade for your thoughts
BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM
The following exercise is not for the faint of heart, or those who like to deliberate before answering an important question. No, this is for those who like playing say, word association games, and don’t mind making mistakes. First, let me set the scene. It’s a mid-September evening. Cool and breezy. I’ve scored a permit to have a beach fire and even if we may nearly freeze to death, I’m going to have the celebration at the beach anyway because it’s my birthday. And not just any birthday.
A big birthday. A new-decade birthday. Which calls for cake and friends and wine and a beach fire.
All is going shiveringly smoothly. There’s laughs, there’s food, there’s coconut cake, my favorite, and a friend has brought sparklers because she knows a highlight of my childhood was running around the backyard barefoot with lit sparklers on the Fourth of July.
Another friend decides to jump into the mix of mostly light conversation with this: “So, Ginny, give us a highlight of each decade so far.” Give us a highlight of each decade so far? From birth to now? A more timid soul would have demurred. “I can’t pick just one thing from (gulp) six decades of life,” I should have said. But no, I was game to try and without thought (that’s key to playing this game if you dare) I dove right in.
First decade, 0-10? “A carousel cake,” I answered. A bazillion things happened in my first 10 years, but I was birthday-focused so what came to mind was the one year when I was 5 (I think) and my mother got me the most beautiful birthday cake in the entire world featuring a carousel of flying horses on top. I never felt so celebrated and special, which as one of eight was not the norm.
Second decade, my friend prompted, 10-20: “Um, getting into Boston College,” I answered. Coming to Boston at the age of 17 changed my life in every way, so choosing BC was a no brainer.
Third, 20-30. “Well,” I exclaimed “that’s easy!” I didn’t notice David, who was standing nearby, standing a little taller, waiting for the inevitable “That’s when I met…” as I spilled out these words instead: “That’s when I met Bill and Paul!” referring to Weld and Cellucci, the two governors I started working for starting when I was 24. Did I imagine it or did the small crowd let out a small gasp? I looked across at a friend who was giving me the eye and surreptitiously pointing to my husband. “Oh,” I hastened to add, “which is how I met David!” But I think I was doubled over laughing
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
‘A love letter to Marblehead’
To the editor:
We want to thank the people of Marblehead who rallied around us nearly 11 years ago after our daughter, Chloë was severely injured in a pedestrian/motor vehicle accident on Dec. 9, 2014. You made it possible for us to bring Chloë home on Oct. 15, 2019, six years ago.
The town zoning approved our plans to modify our home to accommodate Chloë’s special needs. The Rombach Recovery Fund along with Casa Rombach, the House Love Will Buy were created, and we were showered with donations, meals, cards and even building supplies. Our plumber, electrician and many countless contractors built a beautiful space in which Chloë could return. People shoveled our driveway and walkway during snow storms. They helped create and participate in many fundraisers.
We will forever be grateful to the people of Marblehead. We were blessed to have landed in this beautiful town in August 1993 when Chloë was just 1. We were welcomed, supported and loved.
Thank you, always,
The Rombach Family — Jeannie, Ed, A.J., Chloë and Boo the dog
too hard to get those words out in any credible way. Luckily, my husband is secure enough not to mind (too much) my slip. I told you this game is not for the faint of heart (or marriage).
Onward. 30-40. “Had my kids,” I answered (Again, probably imagining it, but the crowd seemed to sigh in relief that I said the right thing this time.) 40-50? “Working at the Herald,” I replied. The job at the Boston Herald writing editorials and columns was a true joy, coming after a career derailment. It also allowed me the now nearly extinct opportunity to work in a gritty city newsroom environment. There were literally blood stains on the floor. And characters and drama galore. 50-60? “Publishing my book,” I said. Another dream realized.
I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that the tip-ofmy-tongue answers to half my decade-highlights involved my career. My sister once said, offhandedly, that I defined myself that way. I don’t really agree, particularly because I had to start over after a successful career at 36 years old. But what I understand now is the tip-of-the tongue answer is not simply about career but about the purpose infusing those decades. It was the philosopher Nietzsche who said, “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” As a kid, my “why” was feeling loved. What other purpose does a kid really need to have? And in my second decade, getting into and attending the college of my dreams is the stuff of teenager-why-hood! Young 20s for me was getting to work in the magnificent State House for two reform-minded leaders — a chance to change the world kind of “why.” My 30s? Being a mom is a why that lasts a lifetime, it turns out. My 40s brought me to writing, a “why” I dreamed about since childhood. And then in my 50s, I brought that purpose to full flower with the publication of a book.
So here I am at the doorway, albeit one foot barely over the threshold, of the next decade. When I turn 70 and play this game again (if I’m still foolish, er, brave, enough), what will I say? What “why” will be on the tip of my tongue?
If you decide to play “a decade for your thoughts,” too, don’t think, just answer. I bet you find your “whys” make perfect sense when you also consider the “hows.” Virginia Buckingham is a former president of the Marblehead Current board of directors, a frequent commentator on WCVB’s On the Record and author of “On My Watch A Memoir.” She is working on a second memoir, “As This Mountain” in her newly empty nest and writes a biweekly column for the Current.
Congratulations on the town’s AAA bond rating
To the editor: Dear members of the Select Board and Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer, On behalf of the Marblehead Municipal Employees Union (MMEU), we extend our sincere congratulations to the Town of Marblehead for achieving a AAA bond rating — a recognition that reflects the town’s continued financial excellence and responsible fiscal management.
The Daily Evening Item article of Oct. 6 highlights several key factors of the town’s strong financial position, including: The auditor’s clean opinion of the town’s financial audit, affirming transparency and sound accounting practices.
A financially healthy and sustainable budget, supported by prudent management and longterm planning.
Investment income that has doubled from the prior year, demonstrating effective stewardship of public funds.
Strong pension obligation management, ensuring the Town remains fiscally responsible to both its employees and taxpayers.
The MMEU commends the town’s leadership, financial
team and all departments whose work has contributed to this exceptional outcome. With such a solid foundation, we are confident that the next round of contract negotiations will be both productive and constructive, reflecting the town’s financial strength and shared commitment to its deserving workforce and proud community.
Once again, congratulations on this significant accomplishment, one that reflects the collective strength, dedication and integrity of our town.
Respectfully, Leandro DiFilippo, JD President, Marblehead Municipal Employees Union
‘The greatness of a community’
To the editor:
Coretta Scott King once said, “The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate action of its members.” That truth became abundantly clear the weekend of Oct. 3 and 4, when our community came together and turned Marblehead Pink for The Ellie Fund.
The Ellie Fund provides, free of charge, essential non-medical support services to women and
Should you trust the internet with your health?
BY STEPHEN BACH
When it comes to our health, many of us often won’t call the doctor first — we go straight to Google. More often than not, we end up on WebMD, convinced we can solve the mystery of our symptoms with a few clicks. It’s easy to see the attraction. The internet’s always open. If you wake up at two in the morning with a headache or notice a rash out of the blue, you don’t have to wait for office hours. You can get instant access to articles, forums and symptom checkers. That kind of information can be empowering.
BEHIND THE LENS
It helps us feel prepared for doctor visits, gives us vocabulary for asking questions, and, of course, it doesn’t cost a dime. But the internet has a darker side when it comes to health. Anyone who’s gone down a latenight rabbit hole knows how quickly reassurance turns into panic. A sore throat suddenly looks like strep, mono or even throat cancer. There’s even a term for it: cyberchondria — the anxiety that comes from convincing yourself the scariest diagnosis applies to you. I’ve heard of people rushing to the ER with WebMD printouts in hand, already sure they were facing something horrible, only to find out it was something minor. The stress, though, was very real.
Another issue is reliability.
Some health sites are carefully updated by professionals, but others are written to generate clicks or sell products. Even trusted sites like WebMD include sponsored content that can blur the line between information and advertising. That doesn’t make them useless, but it does mean you can’t assume everything applies to your situation.
The biggest danger is letting a website replace your doctor. A list of possible conditions can’t factor in your history, lifestyle or the subtle things a professional notices during an exam. Believing you’ve found the diagnosis yourself can delay proper care or lead you to treatments that don’t help. The healthiest way to use the internet is as a starting point, not a finish line. Think of it as background reading. If you’re curious about what’s going on, by all means look it up. Take notes. Use that knowledge to have a better conversation with your doctor. But don’t stop there. Let the professionals — who’ve spent years training — put the pieces together for you.
In my work, I often see the same pattern with computers. A laptop that won’t turn on might just need a restart — or it might be a failing hard drive. Google can point you in the right direction, but eventually you need someone who knows how to read the signs. Health works the same way. The internet is a tool, not a substitute for care. So the next time you’re tempted to type your symptoms into a search bar, go ahead. Learn what you can. But then pick up the phone. Your health deserves more than a Google search!
Until next time: let’s keep you and your tech healthy!
Stephen Bach is the owner and chief of surgery at The Digital Docs in Marblehead.
Celebrated photographers share their stories with crowd at MAA
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Pulitzer Prize winner
Ulrike Welsch and three other Marblehead-based photojournalists shared behindthe-scenes stories from their careers at the Marblehead Arts Association Oct. 9. The sold-out program was a fundraiser for the Current.
The photojournalists talked about the keys to taking great photographs for news outlets — whether newspapers or magazines. They agreed that being curious is important, as is being ready to “find the extraordinary in the ordinary,” according to Tanya Braganti . Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Daily News.
Welch described photographing presidents, cardinals and little boys with butterflies. She won a Pulitzer for the Boston Globe’s coverage
of bussing in the 1970s. Jared Charney has shot for The Boston Globe, Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, Barron’s Magazine, Dutch Financial
Kathi Kaligian, Chestnut Street Francie Hill, Atlantic Avenue
Noreen Rogers, Gregory Street
Jansi Chandler, Harbor Avenue
men in active breast cancer
treatment. One hundred local businesses, restaurants and yacht clubs across our beautiful town participated, without hesitation.
We were, at times, overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness, outreach and willingness to help those in our town who are battling this beast we call breast cancer.
In a time when there is so much divisiveness and discord in our country, it is deeply comforting to see the compassion that still runs strong here, among friends, businesses, neighbors and townspeople.
Marblehead has always been a town that shows up, reaching back to the days of the American Revolution when its people stood for independence against long odds.
Humanity is alive and well in Marblehead. The Marblehead Coalition for The Ellie Fund extends its heartfelt thanks to every member of this community for your support, generosity and spirit of kindness.
With gratitude, Susan Hassett, Harbor View Lane
Debbie Powell, Pond Street
Marty Willis, Spray Avenue
Margaret Bacon, Waldron Street
Terri Leake, Shorewood Road
Donna Rice, Jersey Street
Walk
for Hospice thank you
To the editor:
On behalf of Care Dimensions, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in and supported the 38th Annual Walk for Hospice, including the dozens of people from Marblehead. This cherished community tradition brings together families, friends, neighbors and colleagues to remember loved ones, celebrate Caregivers and inspire support that helps to ensure compassionate care for patients and families.
This year’s walk was a powerful reminder of the strength of our community. With more than 630 registered walkers, dozens of volunteers, generous business sponsors and donors at every level, the outpouring of support truly inspires us. Each step taken and every dollar raised helps sustain vital programs such as music therapy, bereavement support, family assistance funds and our pet and massage therapies.
We are deeply grateful for the continued trust and generosity that allow us to fulfill our mission. Your support ensures that hospice patients and their families receive not only expert medical care, but also comfort,
Times, MIT News, North Shore Magazine and New Hampshire Magazine. He shared an emotional story about spending several hours photographing
dignity, and peace during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Thank you for walking beside us. Together we are making a difference!
With gratitude, Stephanie Patel, Care Dimensions, chief executive officer Heather Johnston, Care Dimensions chief development officer Sylvan Street, Danvers
‘Democracy is living without fear or intimidation’
To the editor:
Recent events in our country and in several towns in our state have raised discussions about the role of democracy in our everyday lives. What is democracy and what is it to live without it? Such discussions prompted me to pull a fairly new book from my bookcase — E. B. White’s “On Democracy (2019).”
For years, I’ve been a dedicated reader of this eminent writer. As a longtime educator, his children’s books and essays for the New Yorker magazine found a way into every class I taught from fourth grade to graduate school. I treasure this recent compilation of his poems, essays and letters on democracy with an introduction by historian Jon Meacham.
In the summer of 1943, White
LETTERS POLICY
The Current welcomes letters to the editor and strives to represent a range of viewpoints on our opinion pages. Generally, letters should not exceed 500 words. Letters over the word limit may be returned to the writer for editing. Writers may be given more leeway to criticize national political candidates and other public figures. However, in all cases, letter writers should refrain from name calling and personal attacks and instead focus on the substance of matters of public concern. Letter writers may be asked to substantiate claims that do not relate to information previously published in the Current. While we will make every effort to let writers have their say, we reserve the right not to publish letters. Letters must include:
was asked by the Writers War Board (writers dedicated to shaping public opinion about the Allied effort in WWII) to write about the meaning of democracy. Here is an excerpt from his letter, published July 3, 1943. I doubt anyone has come up with a more accurate and poignant description.
“Surely the board knows what democracy is. It is the line that forms on the right. It is the don’t in don’t shove… Democracy is the recurrent suspicion that more than half of the people are right more than half of the time. It is the feeling of privacy in the voting booths, the feeling of communion in the libraries, the feeling of vitality everywhere. Democracy is a letter to the editor. Democracy is the score
The author’s name. Unsigned letters and form letters will not be published.
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Letters must be received by our newsroom directly from their writers (for special circumstances, contact the newsroom). Email submissions to info@marbleheadnews.org or use the submission form found at marbleheadcurrent.org/letters.
Some letters may be shared to social media. We will share a wide array of viewpoints.
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at the beginning of the ninth. It is an idea which hasn’t been disproved yet, a song the words of which have not gone bad. It is the mustard on the hotdog and the cream in the rationed coffee.
“ Dare I interpret the great writer? I believe White is saying that democracy is living without fear or intimidation. It is making choices to attend schools and go to work and enjoy our free time as we choose — yes, sitting at the ninth inning without fear that someone will drag you out of there. When President Roosevelt read White’s letter, his response was, “I love it! Them’s my sentiments exactly!” Mine, too!
McGreevy, Ph.D. Prospect Street
a man who had lived 80 years behind bars while always maintaining his innocence. Marblehead High senior and Current reporter/photographer
Grey Collins said he always tries to “capture the emotion” of a scene and spoke about shooting pictures from last year’s Marblehead teachers strike.
Ann
COURTESY PHOTO / LAURIE SLOPE
Photojournalists (from left) Grey Collins, Jared Charney, Tanya Braganti and Ulrike Welsch share stories from their careers with Current Editor Leigh Blander and a crowd at the Marblehead Arts Association.
BY LEIGH BLANDER
MCC’sphilosophyisthatchildren
Acollaborative+suppor tiveenvironmentwith
Forinfoabout
Local man wanted in Florida is located, not arrested
Marblehead resident Rob Goodwin, wanted on charges including grand theft and scheme to defraud, was located in California, according to Sheriff Michael Chitwood of Volusia County, Florida. As of Monday morning, Goodwin had not been apprehended.
Goodwin and his travel agency, Stone & Compass, are accused of defrauding 104 high school students and chaperones in Volusia County out of $400,000 for an international trip that was canceled without refunds, according to a Sheriff’s Department press release.
Goodwin’s bond is set at $4 million.
Goodwin and Stone & Compass are also named in a complaint filed by the Florida Attorney General’s Office, which alleges they violated Florida’s Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The AG is asking a judge to order Goodwin to pay $2.6 million in restitution and civil penalties, and ban him from doing business in Florida. Goodwin.
MHS roof update
The Marblehead High School roof subcommittee is expected to decide on Nov. 6 whether to move forward with a liquidapplied restoration or a recover. The subcommittee will then make its recommendation to the full School Committee. The restoration approach could save between $500,000 to $1 million.
Bidding documents were set to be released Oct. 15 with bids due Nov. 5.
The project is scheduled to start construction in June.
Coffin School plans
As the town decides what to do with the empty Coffin School property on Turner Road, it is
Happenings
town will provide paint, glitter, glue, foam stickers and more. Register at http://bit.ly/3VXHOJT.
Rec & Parks is also hosting its haunted house at Hamond Park. This year’s theme is “Summer camp gone wrong!” There are two timeframes: 6:307:15 p.m. is called “lite,” and 7:30-8:30 p.m. is
seeking input from nonprofits and developers for “creative proposals to allow the highest and best use(s) of the property.”
For more information, visit marbleheadma.gov/bids-rfps/.
Miles for Mary 5K Run/Walk
Two upcoming events in Marblehead will honor the memory of Mary Park while benefiting brain cancer treatment research at Mass General Cancer Center. Park died from glioblastoma in 2012, as have too many other loved ones in town. The first is a Miles for Mary Run/Walk Saturday, Oct. 18, at Devereux Beach. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 25,000 people will be diagnosed with brain cancer this year. The National Brain Tumor Society states that the five-year relative survival rate for glioblastoma is only 6.8%. Since 2013, Miles for Mary has raised over $800,000 for brain cancer treatment research at Mass General Cancer Center. The funds raised this year will continue to support innovative research in brain cancer treatment, such as INCIPIENT. Miles for Mary is part of the Marblehead Road Race Series. Learn more here: runmhd.org.
Organizers are also planning a Miles for Mary research seminar for Monday, Nov. 3 at the Eastern Yacht Club. Come hear Dr. Elizabeth Gerstner and Dr. Michael W. Parsons from Mass General Cancer Center, $65 registration via milesformary. com. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6 p.m., and the presentation begins at 7 p.m.
Rotary 5K Walk/Run for students’ mental health
On Nov. 2, Marblehead Rotary will host its annual 5K Walk/Run to raise money to keep the Inner Explorer mindfulness program
labeled “extreme.” Tickets are $6 in advance, $8 on the day of the event. Visit http://bit.ly/4n0zCUj. On Thursday, Oct. 30, 4-6 p.m., the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce will be holding its annual trick-or-treat event. Enjoy sweets and treats and extended shopping hours at participating businesses around town. Look for the Halloween pumpkin poster displayed by retailers to indicate their
in Marblehead schools.
Last month, school leaders spoke at Rotary about the positive impact of the program, which brings a structured, evidence-based resource into classrooms giving students a few minutes each day to practice guided mindfulness. These daily moments of calm help students reduce stress, strengthen focus and build lifelong resilience. Register for the 5K at marbleheadrotary.com. The course begins and ends at Boston Yacht Club and winds through the Historic District.
Star gazing and astronomy night at Goldthwait
Weather permitting, the Goldthwait Reservation and members of the Gloucester Area Astronomy Club will host a Star Gazing Party on Friday, Oct. 17, 7-9:30 p.m., with a cloud date of Saturday night, Oct. 18. Attendance will be limited to the first 50 to register for the event, and children 6 years and up are welcome.
The Gloucester Astronomy Club will have laser tours of the autumn constellations and some fabulously high-powered for telescopes set up to show the wonders of the dark night sky. Celestial objects observed will
participation. For more info, call the Chamber at 781-631-2868.
Also on the 30th, the Marblehead Museum and Family Fund will be hosting their annual Pumpkin Illumination in the Lee Mansion Garden, 4-7 p.m.
All are invited to showcase their pumpkincarving skills by filling out the entry form on the Family Fund’s website, mhdfamilyfund.org,
gather in one place. Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by E-mailing: lyonsl@marbleheadma.gov For any questions, please call (781) 631-1529. Details on how to access the hearing remotely via the internet will be posted on the
be planets, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies and stars almost as old as time.
Star-gazing etiquette dictates that only red lights are permitted after dark. Red light flashlights (flashlights covered with red brake light tape) will be provided to assist people from their cars to the observation area. White light compromises night vision.
Flashlights and iPhone lights can be easily adapted with red cellophane paper or red brakelight tape.
To register, text 781-724-5734 or email fionaclubbock@gmail.com.
No Kings 2: Peaceful protest Saturday, Oct. 18
A Marblehead No Kings rally is being held on Saturday, Oct. 18, 4-5 p.m. at the corner of Maple and Lafayette streets. The public is invited to bring signs to this peaceful gathering. The League of Women Voters of Marblehead is a co-organizer. (Note: The weekly No Kings sign-holding standout at this site will continue after the 18th, but at the new time: 4-5 pm).
“The Oct. 18 national protests are in reaction to this administration’s continued move toward authoritarianism and concentration of power,” according to Kathy Leonardson of The LWV Marblehead. Protests are being held across
and then dropping their creation off between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 30. Prizes will be awarded in the following categories: Best 5 Years Old and Under, Best 6-11 Years Old, Spookiest, Best Creative, Funniest, Best Business, Best Carved, Best Painted, Best School Group and Best NonSchool Group. And on Halloween, Oct. 31, Abbot Library will be hosting its Children’s
Tuesday October 28, 2025 at 7:30 PM on the request of Ruthy LLC to vary the application of the present Zoning By-Law by allowing a Special Permit for the construction of a new addition to a non-conforming mixed use structure located at located at 1-3 Essex Street in the B1 DISTRICT The new addition will have less than the required Lot Area, Open Area, Parking, Exceed the Height requirements, and exceed the 10% expansion limits for a non-conforming building. The hearing is held in accordance with the provisions of the Marblehead Zoning By-Law and Chapter 40A of the General Laws as amended and Pursuant to Governor Baker ’s Order allowing suspension of Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law G.L. c. 30A, §18. This hearing will be held remotely in accordance with Governor Baker ’s March 12, 2020 Order superseding certain provisions of the Open Meeting Law G.L. c. 30A, section 18 and the Governor ’s March 15, 2020 Order imposing strict limitation on the number of people that may gather in one place. Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by E-mailing: lyonsl@ marbleheadma.gov For any questions, please call (781) 631-1529. Details on how to access the hearing remotely via the internet will be posted on the meeting agenda at least 48-hours prior to the meeting. The agenda can be found on the following link: https://www.marblehead.org/node/286/agenda/2025 William L. Barlow Secretary
INVITATION TO BID
The Town of Marblehead will offer the surplus property for sale via a public auction in accordance with M.G.L. c. 30B. A description of the items and all terms and conditions, specifications, bidding procedures, and photos may be viewed on www.govdeals.com
The auction will be held from October 15, 2025, at 8 am and ending on October 30, 2025, at 7 pm.
The contract(s) if awarded will be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder offering the highest price for each item. Every Bid must be accompanied by a signed non-collusion form.
The Town of Marblehead reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or to award or not to award the contract for any reason the Town Administrator determines to be in the Town’s and/or the public’s best interest.
All items are sold “as is, where is” with no warranty or guarantee, either expressed or implied.
Halloween Party from 10:30 a.m.-noon. There will be story time, easy crafts, games and snacks.
the North Shore and Boston area.
All No Kings events adhere to a shared commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety and all organizers are trained.
The League of Women Voters of the U.S. is a partner in the national No Kings Day of Peaceful Protest, joining the ACLU, American Federation of Teachers, Common Defense, Sierra Club. Common Cause, Stand for Science, 50501, Indivisible, Human Rights Campaign, League of Conservation Voters, National Nurses United and others. The League of Women Voters is nonpartisan with respect to candidates and parties but advocates on behalf of League policies and positions.
Holiday Pops
Marblehead Harbor Rotary will present Holiday Pops featuring maestro Dirk Hillyer and The Hillyer Festival Orchestra in historic Abbot Hall on Dec. 13. Tickets go on sale Nov. 12 at rotaryclubofmheadharbor. org. Floor tickets are $85, and balcony tickets are $45. For sponsor details and event information, visit rotaryclubofmheadharbor. org or call Jessica Barnett at 781-639-0624.
The party is free. Register at abbbotlibrary.org.
COURTESY PHOTO
Ticketsfor Holiday Pops featuring maestro Dirk Hillyer and The Hillyer Festival Orchestra go on sale Nov. 12
For over200 years, MarbleheadFemale Humane Society has remained faithful to its original mission of quietly and re spec tfu lly helpi ng Ma rble head re sid ents in ne ed.
If yo u’re struggli ng to pay your bills or are experiencing asudden and unexpected financial hards hi p, we’ re he re t o he lp.
Individual requests forfinancialassistance must be referred through athirdparty for consideration.
We urge you to contact our partners listedbelow, or speak to your localclergy to request assistance from Ma rbleh ead Female Huma ne Soc iety:
Marblehead Counseling Center 781-631-8273
Marblehead Housing Authority 781-631-2580
Marblehead Council on Aging 781-631-6225
Marblehead Food Pantry 781-631-8340
putting the Magicians up 7-6 as the first quarter wound to a close.
Sports
The Panther offense returned to the field to begin what would end up being the longest drive of the day. After methodically working their way deep into Marblehead territory, the drive would be stalled by two penalties and a Declan Gibson sack on third down to make it fourth down and 20.
Forced to draw up a shot play to the end zone, Marblehead’s defensive secondary came up huge with Madden Lyons snagging his fourth interception of the season over the head of a Beverly receiver to slam the door shut on an eight minute Beverly drive.
With momentum on their side, the Marblehead offense shredded the Panther line as James Machado sprinted his way 50-yards to the Beverly five-yard line before Callahan ran around the end of the line for the touchdown.
After the defense forced Beverly three-and-out, Callahan doubled up, punching the ball in from two yards out to give the Headers a 21-6 lead just before half.
Madden Lyons picked off his second pass of the day on a Hail Mary attempt by the Panthers as the halftime whistle sounded.
Marblehead came out of the halftime break swinging with Gallup finding his favorite target in Golden on the far side of the field for a spectacular 24-yard grab. The excitement would be quickly extinguished, however, as Golden was injured as he hit the ground following the catch. The senior would not return for the remainder of the game.
Even without their star receiver, the Magicians recovered their concentration with Callahan making his way 11-yards through multiple tacklers for his third touchdown of the afternoon to put the visitors up 28-6.
The Beverly offense responded with a touchdown of their own with senior Floyd White walking the tightrope for 45-yards for his ninth receiving touchdown of the season, breaking the school’s single season record.
Junior wideout Tim Wales put the final touches on the Marblehead victory, catching a pass over the middle at the goal line to make the score 35-14 with under four minutes to play.
The win over Beverly pushes Marblehead’s record to 5-0 as the second half of the season begins. Marblehead has won their last 13 matchups against the Panthers, a streak dating back to October 10, 2014.
The Magicians will travel to Peabody to face the Tanners Friday at 7 p.m.
Marblehead Magicians sports weekly notebook
BY JOE MCCONNELL
Girls cross country goes for perfection at home
With just one regular season meet to go, the Marblehead High girls cross country team is on the cusp of perfection after beating host Danvers, 23-34 to secure its sixth straight victory on Oct. 8. It all comes down to Wednesday’ s (Oct. 15, 4:30 p.m.) home meet at Lead Mills against the Winthrop Vikings to seal the deal on a storybook finish.
Captain Marri O’Connell, the program’s running whiz for the last four falls, and Sarah Munroe topped the ticket for the fifth straight meet to lead the way for their teammates.
Norah Walsh came in fifth, just edging her Danvers counterpart that helped secure another win.
“(Walsh) ran an excellent race,” said coach Will Herlihy. Ruby Assa was not too
far behind in seventh place, followed by Evelina Beletsky, who turned in her best race of the year, according to Herlihy, to account for eighth place.
“Danvers has a really strong squad, but we had some runners step up to the challenge in a big way to seal the win,” said Herlihy. “Even outside the Top 5, one last (wave) of our runners also ran really well.”
Boys even record at three
The Marblehead boys cross country team extends its winning streak to three following a 17-43 victory over host Danvers on Oct.8.
After starting the season 0-3, these Magicians have come all the way back to even their record at three with one more regular season meet left on the schedule against visiting Winthrop on Oct. 15.
Senior captain Zach Pike
Prior to the game against Peabody under the Piper lights on Oct. 3, Marblehead High girls soccer senior captain Sadie Halpern greets a couple of youth soccer players on Youth Soccer Night. But Sadie was also smiling because she was making her season debut after recovering from ACL surgery. It was a yearlong battle, but through hard work and dedication to go along with a tremendous amount of perseverance, grit and determination,
Girls soccer loses bid for unbeaten season
bested the entire field in the Danvers meet with a firstplace finish. Will Cruikshank, Henrik Adams and Filip Grubor captured the next three spots to help produce the lopsided victory. Before the Winthrop meet, the Marblehead boys traveled to Falmouth to compete in the annual Twilight Invitational on Oct. 11 as a tune-up for the postseason.
Callie Gilmore led the way on offense with two goals and one assist. Senior Liv Carlson and Alma Gaunt were next in line with two scores apiece. Hailey Gilmore scored a penalty kick goal. Cam O’Brien chipped in with one marker. Isabel Mortensen and Liv Niles each collected one assist. Goaltenders Hailey Gilmore and Lily Heller shared in the shutout effort. It was the first time that both O’Brien and Gaunt scored in a varsity game. This game also featured Isabel Mortensen’s first varsity assist. Hailey Gilmore left the net to play striker in the second half, and as a result was able to score her first varsity goal on the PK.
The girls soccer team (9-12) began last week with a dominating 8-0 win over host Gloucester on Oct 6.
“Gloucester has struggled this year with a very young team, but despite the final score, their keeper still made 26 saves,” said
Marblehead quarterback Finn Gallup eyes a mismatch as he takes the snap.
COURTESY PHOTOS / DAN RYAN
Despite being sandwiched by two Beverly defenders, Marblehead’s Rylan Golden (6) stretches his arms beyond the goal line for a touchdown.
Marblehead’s Madden Lyons slashes across the field and makes the catch.
Marblehead runner Vidal Clark tries to break free from Beverly’s George Frost (33).
Declan Gibson celebrates after getting a key sack.
Marblehead’s Tim Wales (2) is all smiles as he crosses the goal line for the Magicians’ final and game-clinching touchdown Saturday.
A week of mixed emotions for the Magicians
Marblehead boys soccer throttles Gloucester before dropping another classic to Beverly
BY JOE MCCONNELL
The Marblehead High boys soccer team (8-3) blew out Gloucester, 9-0 to begin last week at home on Oct. 6. But two days later, also at Piper, they suffered a heartbreaking loss to Beverly, 2-1. As of Oct. 10, the Magicians are seeded 16th in the Division 2 power rankings, and the only Northeastern Conference team ahead of them is Masco (11-2), and the Chieftains are fifth overall. There are 61 teams in this division statewide.
The Marblehead boys were certainly taking nothing for granted in the Gloucester game, even though the Fishermen are in the middle of a rebuilt.
“Gloucester has been struggling, but we still didn’t want to take them for granted,” said coach Elmer Magana. “Our boys came out like sharks on Shark Week, and quickly scored the first goal one minute into the game.”
Mark Vinokur was credited with the first two goals of the game, which opened up an avalanche of markers – four to be exact – by the home team in a span of 30 minutes.
“I called a timeout at that point to ask the boys to work on completing their passes,” said Magana. “That request was forgotten by the second half, maybe because they are
teenagers, competitors or simply smell blood in the water like sharks.”
When it was 9-0, Magana called a second timeout, and again he asked them to pass the ball back and forth, and this time they did just that until the final whistle.
“Although we won the game, I felt really bad by the final score, not only because it was no longer necessary to score more than three, but because the Gloucester coach is my brotherin-law, and we haven’t spoken since that game,” Magana said.
At the other end of the pitch, goalie Matias Watts-Cruz earned his fifth shutout of the year.
The veteran Marblehead coach singled out winger Ilan Druker and Vinokur, a center midfielder, for their great scoring games. Druker, a senior captain, matched his junior teammate in goals with two, along with sophomore Quinn Cohane. Senior captain Jared Halpern, freshman Mitchell Leighton and junior Erik Badzak each accounted for one apiece.
Badzak also setup the second Druker goal, while Halpern helped out on his first tally.
Center midfielder Bubacarr Jallow also earned the coach’s praise with four assists that led the team by a wide margin in that department.
But the Beverly game that followed was definitely
more competitive. “Games involving these two teams never disappoint,” said Magana. “It always lives up to its expectations.” It was once again a back-andforth battle for ball possession
that also featured gritty defense, great goaltending and a big crowd supporting both teams at Piper. In this version of the Clash of the Titans, scoring first doesn’t necessarily guarantee victory.
Miles Fontela-Tuttle scored a great goal inside the box after a quick through ball to him by Halpern. It was the lone first half goal by both sides.
The Panthers tied it up early on in the second half, and then both squads went on the hunt for the decisive goal. When fans thought it was going to be a draw, a high towering throw-in into the box was barely deflected into the net by Beverly with less than two minutes left on the clock. It was indeed a heartbreaking way to lose another classic by both these teams.
“Although we didn’t match the height of the Panthers, we matched them in skills, ball movement and controlling the tempo of the game,” said Magana. “But it just wasn’t enough, even though we did outplay them in many aspects of the game. I can’t say enough about our goalie – Matias WattsCruz – who made key saves throughout to keep us in the fight.”
Magana then added: “I’m beyond proud of our boys for going toe-to-toe with one of the top Division 1 schools in the state. They never gave up, while battling until the final whistle. It was simply another NEC Classic that (eventually) turned into another great night of soccer under the (Piper) lights.”
fantastic stops in the first half to keep her teammates in the game, and had six saves altogether from start to finish.
coach Lisa Wales. “They never gave up as a team, and their coach said that they don’t go down easy, and I couldn’t agree more.”
Still on the road two days later, these Magicians lost a close battle to Beverly, 2-1, which spoiled their quest for an unbeaten record.
Junior Callie Gilmore scored the team’s lone tally from Carlson in the first half, but before the half ended, the Panthers netted the equalizer. With 12 minutes left in the game, the home team scored on a penalty kick to account for the game-winner. Hailey Gilmore did her part in net to keep the game close, making nine saves.
“We were without senior captain Sydney Ball, who was injured,” said Wales, “but senior captain Ashley Mortensen, junior Ainsley McDonald, senior Courtney Hitscherich and senior Liv Carlson stepped up and were outstanding in this game. We left it all out on the field, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more.”
But the Marblehead girls turned that score around, when they returned to Piper last Friday (Oct. 10) to beat nonleague Manchester Essex, 2-1. Ball got it going after taking a cross from junior Lucy Church to tie the game at one in the second half, before junior Callie Gilmore took a pass from sophomore Lucy McDonald to put home the game-winner. Hailey Gilmore made some
Field hockey enjoys another winning week
The field hockey team (7-4-2) ended up with another winning week after starting it off with a close loss to visiting Gloucester, 3-2 on Oct. 7. They were able to bounce back against non-league host Everett the next day, 1-0, before edging Essex Vocational Tech, another non-league foe, last Friday (Oct. 10) in Danvers, 2-1. Against Gloucester, Chloe Rowland scored on a penalty corner in the first quarter, and Layla Dulac then tacked on the other goal in the fourth quarter from Carolyn Black. Goalie Elizabeth Hayes came up with nine saves to keep things close. “(Hayes) plays with both her head and heart, and we’re fortunate to have her on our side,” said first-year coach Alison Carey.
Carey, talking about the team in general, says that “(their) cohesion is starting to hit its peak, and it feels like it’s coming together at just the right time.”
The Marblehead coach then went on to say: “Credit once again has to go to our incredible defensive line of Kate Andriano, Avery Wysor, Paige Waldman and Meggie Grenier. They are smart, calm players, who are strong and athletic. They communicate so well together. All four played the entire 60 minutes against Gloucester, never slowing down at any point.”
Carey also singled out
midfielders Keliane Salem, Carolyn Black and Elise Donnellan after the Gloucester game. “They are strong, smart, fearless players, who really pushed us into scoring opportunities in this game,” she said. “Shea Bickell, who has been playing forward this season, recently stepped back to midfield. She’s also a smart player, whose versatility is certainly a major asset for our team.”
The Magicians will see Gloucester again on Oct. 21 at its place on Cape Ann, hoping to avenge this close loss. But first, they had to head to Everett, where they got back on the winning track against the Crimson Tide on Oct. 8.
Sadie Beane scored the lone goal of this game in the second quarter from Salem. Hayes played the first three quarters in net, making one save. Molly Beauchesne took over the goaltending chores in the final period.
The coach also mentioned Addie Rotigliano, who, she said, “was relentless in the scoring circle (against Everett).” Overall, the team had 11 shots on goal. but just couldn’t find a way to get more than one past Tide goalie Wilins Julien.
The Marblehead girls closed out last week in Danvers against the aforementioned Essex Vocational Tech.
Salem ignited the attack with a goal in the second quarter from Zoe Dwyer. Dwyer then netted the winning goal on a solo effort in the third quarter. Hayes was credited with six saves to help secure another win.
Volleyball makes it six in a row
The volleyball team (11-2) rattled off three more victories last week, all by 3-0 shutouts, to extend its winning streak to six as the regular season winds down with only five matches left to play. They defeated Salem and Peabody on the road, before finally coming home last Friday (Oct. 10) to take down nonleague Reading.
Against Salem on Oct. 6, Lila Moniz led the offense with 13 kills, while Greta Sachs (10 kills) and Mari Modrzynska (12 kills) also reached double digits. Setter Eva Burke accounted for 35 assists.
Libero Sydney Faris anchored the defense with a standout performance receiving serves, while passing at a 2.5 rate. She also came up with 20 digs.
On Oct. 8 against host Peabody, Sachs powered the offense with 14 kills to help her teammates remain undefeated in the Northeastern Conference. Moniz was next in line in kills with 11. Modrzynska had 10. Burke was the assist leader with 28. Faris anchored the defense, receiving serves at a 2.4 rate to go along with 22 digs. With a balanced offensive attack against the Rockets, Moniz was the leader with 12 kills. Sachs had 8 kills and 3 blocks. Burke tallied 31 assists, while also running an efficient offense throughout. Defensively, Faris anchored the back row once again with 12 digs. Moniz and Modryznska were steady in receiving serves that helped maintain the team’s successful rhythm.
Golfers retain Tedesco Cup for fourth straight year
After a week off, the Marblehead golfers (11-2-2) returned to tie Danvers, 36.5-36.5 at Tedesco on Oct. 7.
Tyler Forbes (6-3), Max King (5-4), Will Macrina (5-4) and Dylan Whitman (5.5-3.5) secured the wins against the Falcons. Greyson Leventhal tied his match. Forbes was the team’s medalist after shooting a 37.
Coach Bob Green’s team then took off for Winthrop to face the Vikings the very next day, where they defeated the Blue & Gold, 44-28.
Forbes (5.5-3.5), Leventhal (7.51.5), King (5-4), Macrina (5.53.5), Joy Meshulam (5.5-3.5) and Colby Moore (6-3) accounted for the victories. Bowden Laramie tied his match, 4.5-4.5. Leventhal was the medalist against the Vikings with a 35. Forbes, King and Macrina all shot 36’s.
The Marblehead boys then went up against rival Swampscott in the annual Tedesco Cup match. It was the team’s third straight day competing on the links, but they showed no signs of weariness after beating the Big Blue to retain the Cup for the fourth consecutive year, 39-33. Leventhal (7.5-1.5), Macrina (5-4), Moore (7-2) and Whitman (6.5-2.5) won their own individual matches. Moore was the medalist with a 36. Leventhal was close behind, ending up shooting a fine score of 38, followed by 39’s for Macrina and Laramie.
From P. 9
COURTESY PHOTO / DAN RYAN
Players gather and listen to coach Jim Rudloff after the win over Beverly Saturday.
COURTESY PHOTO / MHS
Marblehead High boys soccer junior Mark Vinokur kicks the ball over the head of a Peabody defender last month. Vinokur then scored the first two goals against Gloucester last week during the Oct. 2 home game to ignite the charge quickly, and his teammates took it from there to pin a shutout on the youthful Fishermen.
Jud Smith Wins 2025 Etchells New Englands in home waters
BY LAURIE FULLERTON
The 2025 Etchells New Englands marked the final regatta of the sailing season featuring an overall win by Marblehead native and sailmaker Jud Smith of the Eastern Yacht Club and his teammates Steve Girling and Lars Ozell with 28 points.
Thirty boats were on the starting line at this lateseason event hosted by the Boston Yacht Club and held Friday, Oct. 11 and Sat., Oct 12. Trimmed down from a threeday to a two-day event because of an approaching nor’easter, it offered surprisingly ideal conditions for racing after weather forecasters initially said the air would be light.
Smith and his team on USA 1111 Fast Mermaid took advantage of both the great breeze and clean starts to get the most boat speed possible and the strategy gave them three first-place finishes out of seven races. Second place finisher Tomas Hornos of Marblehead, Chris Lanza and Ezra Culver of the Coral Reef Yacht Club on
HOOPS
USA 1368 Vertigo II finished with 42 point and third place finisher
Don Dowd on USA 1397 Tar & Feathered of the New York Yacht Club with 44 points.
“Etchells is a very technical boat and during this event we were able to get clear air and good boat speed at the start, so one good thing led to another,” Smith said of his win. Smith’s teammate Steve Burley, who originally comes from England but has sailed with Smith in the past in both the national and world competitions added that, “I love coming to Marblehead and love sailing the Etchells because the standard of
competition is so high. It is a big heavy boat that takes time and skill to get it to go well. However, once you get it dialed in and you know it, it is a great feeling.”
For second place finisher, sailmaker and Marblehead resident Tomas Hornos, he noted that interest in the fleet has grown and evolved as he is seeing a consolidation of former Etchells competitors returning to the fleet and new people joining up and Etchells are more affordable now.
“The competition here is very good and it is a testament to all the teams that came to the New Englands,” Hornos said. The
Etchells is a very interesting boat in that it is easy to get around a racecourse on one and there is not a high barrier for entry. It is also a safe, stable boat, user-friendly and sails very well upwind. Yet, it is a long journey to sail these boats well and the competition here in Marblehead remains high.”
Principal Race Officer Karen Tenenbaum and the Boston Yacht Club Race Committee had the challenge of condensing a three-day event down to two. She chose to run four shorter, rapid-fire races on Friday and three longer races on Saturday. With a crowded starting line,
what was crucial was there were only two recalls (when people were over the line early) and the cooperation of the wind and weather meant they could get in seven races in two days.
“It was a fantastic event and the wind cooperated. It was close sailing and we were determined to get in three races on Saturday after having four races on Friday,” Tenenbaum said. “The fleet was really great to work with, and we only had to make a couple of adjustments over two days.”
For overall results go here theclubspot.com/regatta/ hx1cLuyyUg/results.
Marblehead Youth Basketball tips off 21st season
SUBMITTED CONTENT
The Marblehead Youth Basketball Association is launching its 21st winter season, bringing together more than 300 boys in grades 3–8 from across town to learn, compete and have fun on the court.
After 20 successful seasons, MYBA continues to thrive thanks to the support of local families, schools and volunteers — the true heartbeat of the league.
“Our league exists only because of the Marblehead community coming together,” said MYBA President Bob Lemmond. “In addition to our many volunteers, we rely on the generosity and partnership of the Marblehead Public Schools, Tower School and Marblehead Recreation and Parks. Our players will take the court in these gyms more than 600 times
MHS VARSITY SCOREBOARD
Monday, Oct. 6
Girls soccer: Marblehead 8, Gloucester 0
Girls volleyball: Marblehead 3, Salem 0
Boys soccer: Marblehead 9, Gloucester 0
Tuesday, Oct. 7
Boys golf: Marblehead 36, Danvers 36
Girls field hockey: Gloucester 3, Marblehead 2
Wednesday, Oct. 8
Boys golf: Marblehead 44, Winthrop 28
Girls cross country: Marblehead 23, Danvers 34
Boys cross country: Marblehead 17, Danvers 43
Girls field hockey: Marblehead 1, Everett 0
Boys soccer: Beverly 2, Marblehead 1
Girls volleyball: Marblehead 3, Peabody 0
Girls soccer: Beverly 2, Marblehead 1
Thursday, Oct. 9
Boys golf: Marblehead 39, Swampscott 33
Friday, Oct. 10
Girls field hockey: Marblehead 2, Essex Tech 1
Girls soccer: Marblehead 2, Manchester-Essex 1
Girls volleyball: Marblehead 3, Reading 0
Saturday, Oct. 11
Boys football: Marblehead 35, Beverly 14
Team records (through Oct. 12)
Boys football, 5-0 (No. 5 in Div. 4)
Boys soccer, 8-3 (No. 16 in Div. 2)
Girls soccer, 9-1-2 (Nºo. 14 in Div. 2)
» Boys golf, 11-2-2
» Boys cross country, 3-3
» Girls cross country, 6-0
» Girls field hockey, 7-4-2 (No. 33 in Div. 2)
Girls volleyball, 11-2 (No. 10 in Div. 2)
MHS VARSITY SCHEDULES
Wednesday, Oct. 15
4:30 p.m., boys and girls cross country vs. Winthrop at Lead Mills Conservation Area, Marblehead
5:30 p.m., girls volleyball vs. Beverly at Marblehead High gym
6:30 p.m., girls soccer vs. Danvers at Danvers High turf
7 p.m., boys soccer vs. Danvers at MHS Piper Field
Thursday, Oct. 16
TBA, boys golf vs. Gloucester
4 p.m., unified co-ed basketball vs. Lynnfield at Marblehead High gym
7 p.m., girls volleyball vs. Saugus at Marblehead High gym
Friday, Oct. 17
4 p.m., girls field hockey vs. Masconomet at Marblehead High
7 p.m., boys football vs. Peabody at Peabody Veterans Memorial Field
7 p.m., girls soccer vs. Winthrop at MHS Piper Field
Saturday, Oct. 18
3 p.m., boys soccer vs. West Springfield at MHS Piper Field
Kent Wheeler, Scott Lavoie, Jaime Bloch and the incredible school custodial staff enough for all they do to make this possible.”
Practices and games tip off in late November at local school gyms.MYBA’s volunteer coaches are dedicated to skill development, sportsmanship and creating an inclusive environment where every player — from first-time beginners to experienced hoopsters — can grow, learn and thrive.
The league features three divisions: College Division (grades 3–4), Western Conference (grades 5-6) and Eastern Conference (grades 7-8).
In addition to the Town League, MYBA also operates a Travel Basketball program, where Marblehead teams
— proudly known as the Headers — compete against top opponents from across the North Shore on weekends.
“We’re thrilled to welcome a wave of new, young coaches this season who bring tremendous energy, enthusiasm, and basketball experience to our program,” added Lemmond. “Their passion is contagious — and it’s great for the kids.”
For more than two decades, MYBA has been fostering a love of basketball, lifelong friendships, and a sense of community pride throughout Marblehead.
For more information, visit marbleheadyba.leagueapps.com or email MYBAHoops@gmail. com. Please also reach out to learn about the options for Girls Basketball in Marblehead.
Monday, Oct. 20
4 p.m., boys soccer vs. Salem at Bertram Field, Salem
5:30 p.m., girls volleyball vs. Notre Dame Academy at Marblehead High gym
5:30 p.m., girls field hockey vs. Danvers at Marblehead High
Tuesday, Oct. 21
4:30 p.m., girls field hockey vs. Gloucester at Gloucester High
5:30 p.m., girls volleyball vs. Danvers at Marblehead High
Wednesday, Oct. 22
4 p.m., girls soccer vs. Masconomet at MHS Piper Field
4 p.m., boys soccer vs. Masconomet at Masconomet High, Boxford
Thursday, Oct. 23
4 p.m., unified coed basketball vs. Danvers at Marblehead High gym
4 p.m., girls field hockey vs. Bishop Fenwick at Bishop Fenwick, Peabody
6 p.m., girls volleyball vs. Swampscott at Swampscott
this season — and we can’t thank people like Lisa Manning,
COURTESY PHOTO / VICTORIA DOSCH Seventh-grader Jordan London shoots a tough two-point shot last season.
COURTESY PHOTO / BRUCE DURKEE
Marblehead’s Jud Smith won the Ethchells New Englands last weekend.
COURTESY PHOTO / DAN RYAN
Members of Marblehead’s offense wait for action to resume during a timeout Saturday in Beverly. From left are Andrew DellaCamera (70), Breydan Callahan (13), Jack Morin (54), Jacob Parisi (64), Trent Brown (14) and Declan Gibson (51).
Marblehead’s best bets
Current Events spotlights exciting happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email Current editor Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org. Leigh Blander
Hangout Hub: Arts, Crafts and Creativity
Wednesday, Oct. 15, 4 p.m.
The Hangout Hub is a once-a-month event at the Abbot Public Library where children ages 6-10 can develop friendships and share interests. Bring arts and crafts or other projects you would like to show and share, or come to explore new projects with others. Register at https://tinyurl.com/Abbot-Art-Hub.
Honey Badgers & Dan Pallotta at Me and Thee
Friday, Oct. 17, 8 p.m.
Join The Honey Badgers and Dan Pallotta at Me and Thee. The Honey Badgers are a folk/Americana duo. Their new album, The Earth Turns and So Do We, was released in 2024.
Dan Pallotta has been making music his entire life, turning his music into action creating the AIDSRides, the Breast Cancer 3-Day walk and the Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk. His organization has raised almost $600 million in nine years. Visit meandthee.org for more information.
Solar Flare - ‘A pop up’ art opening from Mrs. & Mr.O
Saturday, Oct. 25, 4 p.m.
Husband and wife local artists invite you to their art opening at MacRae’s Sustainable Goods. Enjoy paintings by Heather Orenstein and photography by JB Orenstein. They will exhibit their work until Nov. 1. This is a free event with no registration required.
Teen Game Time at Abbot Library
Friday, Oct. 17, 3 p.m.
Join the monthly game program at Abbot Public Library for Mario Kart game event. The program is for grade 6 and over, where teens can join the gaming tournament or come to hang out. No registration required. For more information, visit abbotlibrary.org/ events/.
Nick and Brendan - A Benefit for Wreaths Across America
Saturday, Oct. 18, 8-10 p.m.
Enjoy live music at the VFW’s Bunker Bar, 321 West Shore Drive, to benefit the Wreaths Across America program here in Marblehead.
Revolutionary WhiskeyHistory and Recs of American Whiskeys with Travis Ireland
Monday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m.
Early Bird Photo Walk
Saturday, Oct. 18, 7:30 a.m.
Walk with Nancy Spelbrink, a local artist and seasoned instructor, to Ft. Sewall to explore the harbor and learn how to tell a story through a lens. The walk will start at MacRae’s at 108 Washington St. with tea and coffee and a chat about what makes a photo compelling. Make sure to bring a camera with manual settings (DSLR, mirrorless or advanced point-andshoot), a fully charged battery and an empty memory card. The walk is $35 and has a class limit of six people. All levels of photographers are welcome. Email nspelbrink@yahoo.com to confirm your spot.
Bittersweet Dessert and Dissent
Saturday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m.
Head over to Old Town House for a historical presentation on how men and women of the 18th and 19th centuries wove abolitionist ideals into daily life. Showing resistance to slavery through the boycotting of goods like sugar, molasses, cocoa, coffee, and spices. Guests will get a taste of desserts that bring history to life, with apple pie, chocolate tart, spice cake, gingerbread and raisin cake. Tickets are $30 each. More information can be found here: marbleheadmuseum.org.
In a joint event with the Ashland Public Library, the Abbot Library will welcome Travis Ireland to discuss the best American whiskeys to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War. This is a remote event, and registration is required to attend via Zoom. To register, visit: tinyurl.com/whiskey-history.
Exploring whiskeys made in the United States, attendees will learn a bit of history and BYO to do a virtual taste test with Ireland, who will be recommending some of his favorites. You must be 21 or older to participate in taste testing but all are welcome to join.
From folk singers to Jewish vampires:
A preview of Jewish Book Month
BY SAOIRSE STALLINGS
The Jewish Community Center of the North Shore is about to launch its 31st Jewish Book Month Speaker Series. The program dives into Jewish literature and culture with author talks and community events meant to inspire meaningful conversations.
The series runs Oct. 16 through Nov. 21, at the JCCNS, with books written by Jewish authors or exploring Jewish themes. The first night will feature journalist Jane Eisner and her book, “Carole King: She Made the Earth Move.” In an interview with the Current, Eisner said King’s complexities make her a fascinating subject.
“People know of her enormous success and impact in her professional life but her personal life was much more troubled as she married and divorced four different men, one of whom was
abusive to her, and she lived in the Idaho wilderness for quite a few years away from the spotlight,” Eisner said. “I guess the other part of her life that I hope readers will learn about and appreciate is the actual originality of her music, how it might seem simple when you first hear it, but actually when you delve into the music itself, it is much more original and innovative than you might think.”
Eisner added that talking about music is a nice change of pace right now.
“I think that there’s so much
strife and anguish in the political world in the United States, in Israel and other places. I think that people crave learning about another part of life and that is culture, and specifically music.”
Up next, on Oct. 23, will be
A.R. Vishny, a New York-based author who is originally from Massachusetts and graduated from UMass Amherst. Her debut young adult novel, “Night Owls” blends folklore, romance and mystery.
“It’s fun,” Vishny said.
“There’s a lot of joy there and I think part of my approach to the
story was writing something that was in a genre that I’ve always loved, the YA vampire romance, but incorporating Jewish culture and history. It was so important to me and I found it so exciting.”
Another highlight will be Nov. 18 when beloved Alice Hoffman speaks about her powerful new novel, “When We Flew Away.” The book is about Anne Frank’s early life, published in cooperation with the Anne Frank House.
JBM Chair Margie Detkin, of Marblehead, says JBM remains as relevant as ever.
“JBM always brings up something that is timely and it always gets conversation going, and there are always people at the end of each author’s talk who raise their hands and want to ask questions about something that relates to what’s happening in the news,” she said.
JBM’s seven author events are open to the public, to listen and ask questions directly to the authors.
All ticket and event details can be found at: jccns.org/jewishbook-month. The JCC is located at 4 Community Road.
COURTESY IMAGE / JCCNS
This year’s 31st Jewish Book Month at the JCC features seven books.
Jewelry celebrating 49 years on Washington Street
BY JEWEL FARRIN
With one glance at Tory’s Jewelry, you’d think the owner had a special affinity for the color pink. This is actually not the case for owner Victoria “Tory” Kelley.
“I would not paint my house this color pink,” she said. She went with the pink exterior because the store is set back from the street a bit and she was looking for something to grab attention.
What about the pink in the jewelry cases inside? “It just works well,” said Kelley. Even though she clarifies it’s not a flesh tone, it works with most colors of jewelry and stones.
“Anything too dark, I think jewelry gets lost,” she said. The pink was a simple choice, one day in the 49 years Tory’s has been open.
Dogs have also played a large role in Kelley’s personal and professional life. Her dog, Heidi, remains at her side in the shop.
Tory’s is one of only a handful of Marblehead businesses that have lasted nearly a half-century. Below, Kelley explains her store’s secret to success.
Please describe your business’ story from foundation to today. I was obviously much younger when I started 49 years ago. I naively thought I could make everything I sold and discovered rapidly that I could sell way more than I could make, and that there was so much more out there that I wanted to sell. The National Grand Bank gave me a thousanddollar loan to start my business and I thought I was asking for the world. In retrospect it was a little bit of money, but it was enough combined with what I personally had to just get me going.
When I started, this was a really busy street, across the street was a paper store, on the corner was a hardware store. There were two supermarkets.
What brought you to Marblehead? I’m from here, grew up here. I went away to
prep school and college and came back and didn’t know what I wanted to do having a double major in Latin and anthropology, and a minor in psych. It just sort of worked out that I ended up coming back … I ended up meeting the guy I married, who had also come back to town.
How has your clientele changed over the years? In a lot of respects my clientele has not changed. I’ve always tried to reach a broad base of people by having something in every price range, and I want everybody who comes in to be able to find something that they’d be happy and proud to give as a gift; whether it’s a pair of little stud earrings for a child, or diamond and platinum for an anniversary. I want everybody to then hopefully come back for different purchases.
How is your business unique, what values and culture do you stand by? I think my business is unique because I try to have things that are not mainstream, that you’re not going to find necessarily at mall stores or online. I always liked carrying smaller artists’ work. We have some bigger companies represented too, but generally
I personally like the work of different artists, more unique and one design.
What are some of your favorite pieces? My own taste is towards the more handmade and I do like color. Whether it’s faceted stones, different gemstones, whether it’s precious stones or semi-precious beads, I just like color. Jewelry is the first thing I think of before I get dressed. “What jewelry am I wearing today?” And then I find something to wear around the jewelry. I’m an earring and necklace person.
What motivations have kept
you a business owner for this long? I don’t need to be here. I could’ve retired long ago. I just really still enjoy it. And I enjoy the interaction with people. I enjoy watching different generations of the same families, which obviously I’ve now seen over so many years and I’m just someone who needs to keep busy. I don’t do “sit down” real well.
What are some favorite moments that have stood out? What challenges have you faced? I’ve found everybody in the community to be very supportive. My staff has whittled down. After COVID, particularly, I lost some part-timers for various reasons. My takeaway from COVID was that I should really close two days a week. Everybody was doing different things with their schedules and hours, and I thought, “Wait a minute. I can maybe close two days and I won’t need as much staffing.”
What advice would you give aspiring business owners/ entrepreneurs? I think starting a business in retail takes a certain kind of person. There is a sense of being married to the business and you do end up
forfeiting some things. I think the hardest part for me has been the weekend aspect, particularly when my kids were growing up and always scrambling to try and be there for them with events they were doing, things that only happened on the weekends. So I think it takes a certain kind of person to be committed because it is 24/7. It’s not checking in and checking out, it’s all encompassing.
How do you view success? What’s next?Keep going as is and ultimately someday I’ll close. It’s what you do when you get to a certain point in time. Success to me is really on a more personal satisfaction level as opposed to necessarily a financial one. Obviously this has been financially quite sound for me, or I probably would’ve switched gears at some point and done something different. It’s been quite good. And yet, I think the enjoyment and the personal satisfaction have been more of the continual driving force. Jewel Farrin is a recent graduate of Endicott College who studied journalism. This story was produced by Farrin for the Massachusetts News Service of Endicott College in partnership with the Marblehead Current.
Whaler makes multiple escapes
Friday, Oct. 3
12:08 a.m. Officers responded to a disturbance on
9 a.m. A driver was given a verbal warning after a traffic stop on Tedesco Street.
9:59 a.m. An officer responded to the scene of a minor vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and Central Street.
5:37 p.m. Officers investigated a report of suspicious activity on Broughton Road.
9:32 p.m. Officers investigated a report of suspicious activity on Washington Street.
9:59 p.m. An officer investigated a report of suspicious activity on Bubier Road.
Saturday, Oct. 4
9:31 a.m. A driver was given a citation after a traffic stop on
Nahant Street.
11:27 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Intrepid Circle to investigate a report of a possible stolen vehicle. Upon his arrival, he was met by a man who said he had been letting his son use his dump truck on and off since 2022, and that over the past two weeks he had intensified his efforts to get his son to return the truck to no avail. The last time the man had seen the truck was approximately two weeks earlier on a job site in Providence, Rhode Island. When he had last spoken to his son earlier in the week, the son reported that he no longer had the truck and had no idea where it was. The officer informed him that, since the truck had not been stolen from Marblehead, the theft should be reported in Rhode Island, if that was the last
place the son had possession of the vehicle.
3:19 p.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a man who had a spot to tie up his 13-foot Boston Whaler on the floats at the State Street Landing. On Monday, he had gotten a call that his Whaler was resting on the rocks located half down the causeway. Then on Saturday, he got a call that his Whaler was loose again. This time, the Coast Guard
found it off the back side of Children’s Island, filled with water and with the front seat and gas tank missing. Although he did not know exactly what was happening, the man said that it appeared that someone was intentionally untying his boat from its spot on the float, though he could not think of anyone with the motive to do that. The man told the officer that he would check with the harbormaster and surrounding businesses to see if there were any cameras that may have captured what was going on.
5:48 p.m. An officer was dispatched to the Tower School soccer field to investigate a report that a misbehaved child was riding his electric bike on the field and dragging around the school’s parking cones. The child was already gone by the time the
officer arrived. The officer spoke with the caller who said that the child had been dragging around the white cones the school has in its dropoff circle across the field and down the street, and refused to stop when asked to by multiple adults. The child told the adults that he used to go to school there and was talking back to them, telling them that if they called the police it would be threatening a child, according to the officer’s report. The officer did not see any damage to the field, and the cones had been put back where they belong.
Sunday, Oct. 5
3:10 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Brimblecomb Avenue.
Tory Kelley has always liked carrying jewelry by smaller artists. CURRENT PHOTOS JEWEL FARRIN
Kelley with her dog, Heidi, inside Tory’s Jewelry.
Tory’s Jewelry is celebrating its 49th anniversary this year.
Jill Thompson Hoffman, 95
Jill Thompson Hoffman passed away peacefully at home in Marblehead on the morning of Sept. 24, 2025, at the age of 95.
Born Aug. 2, 1930, in Fresno, California, Jill was the only child of M. Faye and William H. Thompson of New York. She grew up in West Hartford, Connecticut, where her love of art and beauty began early and never left her.
After attending Hartford Junior College and completing her studies at the Rhode Island School of Design, Jill moved west with her parents and worked as a draftsperson in the emerging field of aeronautical
Vincent Maurice McGrath, 91
Vincent Maurice McGrath, age 91, of Marblehead and Ft. Myers, Florida, passed away Friday, Oct. 3. Raised in Malden, he graduated from Malden High School in 1951. In 1953, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps where he served for eight years, including two years of active duty. Before and after the Marine Corps, he was a working member of Local #7 Ironworkers until retirement from that work in the early 1980s.
Karen Draper, 78
Karen passed away peacefully, on October 7 at the Pilgrim Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center in Peabody after a long struggle resulting from a traumatic brain injury she suffered in July of 2022. Born in Jasper, Alabama, Karen spent her childhood in Cordova and Homewood, Alabama, before moving north as a young adult. After briefly living in New York City, she moved to the North Shore, first settling in Newburyport and later in Marblehead and Salem. In March of 1979, Karen married Howard L. Graves, Jr. Karen and Howard raised their beautiful daughter, Ashley, in Marblehead. Ashley was the center of Karen’s life. Karen volunteered at Ashley’s school,
4:01 p.m. An officer went to the parking lot of Miller’s Plaza on Pleasant Street to speak to a man who had discovered a long scratch down the driver’s side of his vehicle after getting a coffee at Starbucks, seemingly from having been “keyed.” The man could not rule out that the damage had occurred elsewhere in his travels. He said he was not aware of anyone who would want to damage his vehicle. The officer said that he would attempt to locate cameras in the area that might have captured the incident but knew from previous investigations that it was unlikely that there was any footage covering the part of the lot where the car was parked. The man said he planned to request a copy of the officer’s report for insurance purposes.
8:22 p.m. An officer began following a vehicle on Palmer Road and Tedesco Street after seeing it drive by with a nonfunctional passenger-side
engineering at both Boeing in Seattle and Armour Research in Chicago.
Her family moved back to the East Coast in the mid-1950s. A chance visit to an MIT lab in Cambridge led to a job offer and, soon after, to meeting her future husband, Thomas E. Hoffman. Their courtship was filled with fun adventures: driving for weekends skiing at Cannon
He graduated from Salem State College and was his class president in 1961. He earned a master’s degree in 1962 from Boston University and continued taking courses in advanced graduate study at Boston University and Boston College.
took her to after-school activities and played host to her friends. On holidays, Karen’s dear friends Deborah and Tom were included in the family circle.
Karen worked as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines from 1967 until 1989, where she was universally respected and loved by the other attendants, pilots and passengers. Everyone wanted to work with her because of her kindness, energy
headlight. He then watched as it ran a “solid red light” at the intersection of Tedesco and Maple streets. After the officer approached the vehicle, the driver apologized, saying that he thought he had enough time to make it through the light before it changed. The officer then informed him about the issue with the headlight as well. Further investigation revealed that the man could not drive the vehicle legally. The officerin-charge said the vehicle could be left legally parked until the man arranged for someone else to get the vehicle. The officer allowed him to retrieve his personal belongings from the vehicle and call a friend for a ride or a place to stay. He found a place to stay and then called a cab. While waiting for the cab, the man accidentally locked his keys and phone inside the vehicle. Although frustrated, the man left the area in the cab. While writing his report, the officer was then dispatched back to the area around 9:30 p.m. to investigate a report of two
Mountain in Tom’s unheated Austin Healey, or sailing out of Marblehead Harbor on a classic wooden Alden sailboat.
They married in 1956 in a small chapel on Sugar Hill in New Hampshire, and celebrated afterwards at the Horse and Hound Inn, a favorite apres ski destination in Franconia, New Hampshire.
Jill and Tom built a life in Marblehead, restoring an antique home and creating spaces full of charm and character. Jill was happiest making a home that felt warm and authentic. She and Tom also designed and handbuilt a ski house in Franconia, where Jill famously hammered nails on the roof while pregnant with their only child. Although they sold their sailboat, they became active members of the Eastern Yacht Club.
Jill was a devoted mother to
His first teaching position was at Marblehead High School in 1962 where he taught History of World Civilizations. He moved on to Salem State College where he taught various history courses from 1965 until retirement in 1996.
While at Salem State College he organized and became the first president of the Massachusetts Society of Professors. He then chaired the Massachusetts State College Association and was its first president from 1977 to 1988. He was also a member of the board of directors of the Massachusetts Teachers Association for several years.
He married his loving wife Marilyn (Downey) at St. Joseph’s
and sense of fun. She made lifelong friends at Eastern, including her friendships with Joyce and Sally. Karen loved to travel and she made the most of her airline privileges during those years, flying all over the world. When Eastern Airlines was sold, Karen began her second career working in retail. She loved her years at Appleseed’s in Marblehead, and later at Potpourri Designs. Her warm personality and wonderful sense of style made her a valued employee.
Karen was passionate about animals. Her first dog, Bridget, was a Cairn terrier. After Bridget came Callie, her calico cat. Karen later adopted Mollie, her beloved golden doodle, who brought her years of happiness. She loved taking long walks with Mollie on the trails in Salem and Marblehead.
Karen was active in sports throughout her life. She loved
men trying to enter the vehicle. He arrived to see the vehicle traveling inbound on Humphrey Street near Charlotte Road, while the man he had pulled over earlier was walking down the center yellow line of the road. The officer activated his vehicle’s emergency lights and asked what they were doing. The man explained that his license and wallet had flown off the car while they were driving down the street, and he was trying to retrieve those items from the road. The man then left the area with his friend, a licensed driver, operating the vehicle.
Monday, Oct. 6
5:29 a.m. Officers investigated suspicious activity reported on Atlantic Avenue and Phillips Street.
10:40 a.m. An officer took a report of a past vehicle crash on Nahant Street.
3:11 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Lafayette and Maple streets.
4:28 p.m. An officer took a report over the phone from
her daughter, Betsy, and later a doting grandmother to her two grandsons. Jill’s grace extended beyond her home — she was a beautiful ice skater, an elegant skier and a passionate gardener. She was a longtime member of the Marblehead Garden Club. She loved the ocean. Swimming in the harbor down at Flat Rock beach or in the cove at Glover Landing gave her particular joy.
Her creativity flourished in painting, studying with noted Cape Ann artists and exploring watercolor techniques.
Later, after her daughter was in high school and college, Jill traveled to Europe on skiing vacations with her husband and friends. In retirement, she created a winter escape out of an adobe casita in Tubac, Arizona, where she and Tom spent many winters. They adopted a
church in Malden and they shared 49 years of marriage until her death in 2011.
His daughter, Susan McGrath Larcom of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, passed away in October 2021. He was also predeceased by his parents, William Thomas McGrath and Jennie (McDonald), and a loving step-father Phillip McGrath, all from Newfoundland, Canada; his brother William, who was killed while in the U.S. Air Force in Europe, brother Donald (Jacqueline), sister Mary McGrath Batchelder (Duane), and son-in-law Gregory McNamara of Marblehead. Vincent is survived by two loving children, Mary McGrath
golfing with her dear friends Barbara and Bobbie. She skied, played tennis, and in later years took up pickleball. Walking was another favorite activity. Karen walked five miles every day for 35 years with her friend, Beth. She did this even through chemotherapy treatments, often setting out at 5:30 a.m. These walks were especially memorable during the five years when Karen’s friend, Norma, was able to join. Karen will be greatly missed by these and her other friends, Betty and Susan, who have years of happy memories to treasure.
Karen was a devoted member of Old North Church in Marblehead since 1982 where she volunteered for many years as a Sunday School teacher. She participated in several civic activities including the Junior League, Junior Aid Society and the Silverliners Club, a philanthropic organization of
a Marblehead teacher who reported having received a series of five phone calls within the span of a half-hour. On the other end of the line, she heard screams and yelling from what sounded like female voices, possibly students. The caller or callers used “antagonistic language” and asked her why she was not talking but did not make any threats or use violent language. The officer advised her to block the number in her phone settings and not to answer any calls with no caller ID.
5:40 p.m. An officer took a report over the phone from a woman who had been walking on the bike path near Community Road when she noticed she was being followed closely by a man, which had made her uncomfortable. close and she felt uncomfortable. He continued to follow her after she turned onto Glendale Road but did not speak to her or try to touch her. The woman said she then faked like she was making a phone call, and the man stopped
vintage golf cart called the “Blue Gopher” to get around. Friends remember her for her effortless style, warmth, and her love of beauty and the natural world. Jill adored her family, and her beloved cat, Snowflake. She leaves behind her daughter, Betsy S. Hoffman, and grandsons William T. Hundahl and Hansen W. Hundahl, all of Marblehead. Her life was full of beauty, creativity and love. Although she outlived most of her contemporaries and friends, she will be greatly missed by many. A private celebration of life will be held. Donations may be made to either Care Dimensions: Hospice and Palliative Care, MA or the Marblehead Museum. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Jill’s family may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com.
McNamara and William McGrath of Marblehead; two siblings, Helen McGrath and Gerald McGrath (Beverly); seven grandchildren, Brendan, William and Mary Vincent Larcom, Gregory and Edward (Teddy) McNamara, Julia and W. Henry McGrath; son-in-law Robert Larcom; and daughter-in-law Kristen McGrath. He had eight nieces and nephews and several grand nieces and nephews. He was a 50-year member of both the OKOs and Gerry 5 organizations. He truly enjoyed living in and being involved with Marblehead.
A celebration of life will be held at the Gerry No. 5 VFA, 210 Beacon St., Marblehead, on Friday, Nov. 28, from 12-3 p.m.
flight attendants supporting communities through charitable work.
Karen was pre-deceased by her parents, Woodrow and Mary Carolyn (Hood) Draper. She leaves her husband Howard, and her daughter Ashley Graves. She is also survived by her sister, Laura (and Dan) Bowlin, and her sister-in-law, Diane (and Paul) Bates. She leaves behind many loving friends. Her family and friends are very grateful for the compassionate care she received at the end of her life from her nurses, aides and hospice workers.
A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at a later date. Donations in Karen’s name can be made to the MSPCA and Compassionate Care Hospice of Woburn. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Karen’s family.
following her, instead walking into a house that was under construction. The woman said she was fine and just wanted the incident documented.
7:53 p.m. An officer assisted with a disabled vehicle on Atlantic Avenue.
Tuesday, Oct. 7
4:02 a.m. An officer investigated a report of suspicious activity on Ocean Avenue.
7:05 a.m. An officer assisted with a disabled vehicle on Atlantic Avenue.
11:51 a.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Bessom Street and filed a report.
1:07 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Amherst Road.
1:56 p.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a man who had someone try to open up a Chase credit card in his name, which he had learned upon receiving a letter from the company. The man had already reported the issue to the credit agencies.
Police
From P. 13
Shining a light on the news you care about!
Headlight
Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community
Freshman elections: a new genre of campaign
Maya Berman, Reporter, Sophomore
It’s that time of year again at Marblehead High School. When the sky gets darker and pumpkin spice lingers in the air, we turn over a new fallen brown leaf to freshman elections. Most years are relatively cliche-two or three people run for office, desperate to make a change, or to access a new title they can put on their college applications, and one gets chosen by the student body. But not this year. It appears as if the freshman class has completely revolutionized what it means to run for class officers. Here’s what they did.
1. Running as a group, instead of a single candidate
If you are like me, you are probably used to seeing the posters in the hallways from people running for student office. But this year those posters changed. Instead of traditionally having one name, they had four. This is part of an up-and-coming trend that I have personally never seen before in student government. Instead of one person running for a position, multiple groups have emerged, where there is a friend group of four canidates, all running for a different position in office, in a “vote for one, vote for all system.” Eleanor Morgan, a student who is part of one of these running parties with three other girls, believes this change is for the better. “I feel like it really helps us reach a wider demographic. We have so many ideas, like more student involvement in Student Council and fun freshman events, and we all know we work well together, which makes these goals a little easier.”
Eve Magen, who is running solo for secretary, has similar thoughts. “I think there are several reasons people are running as groups. I think it improves your chances to have a group of three people endorsing you constantly. I also think it could be because they want to be on Student Council with their friend group. However, I’m not running as a group.”
Whether you think the idea of group candidacy is a good idea, or a bad one, you cannot deny this election tactic may have an impact on election strategies far into the future.
2. Social media marketing
Randomly, during mid to late September, I started getting follow requests from accounts I didn’t know of freshmen running for office. These accounts were followed by a spew of posts with captions like, “Why we should be elected” or “Vote for me as treasurer,” with the newest trendy viral song playing over it. The freshman class elections have taken taken over social media, with everyone reposting the videos of who they would want to win. This is wildly different from former election tactics, which just simply contained telling your friends and writing a good speech. As best said by Eve Magen: “It's a really great way to get your name out there and get your policies known.”
3. Posters and Signs
I think now we've uncovered that in previous years there was little to no campaign movement. So it's not shocking that the “Vote for me!” posters that clutter the hallways are a new development. I’m sure you've seen a few on your way to class-on Mr. Colfer's whiteboard, in the second floor hallway, and on communal bulletin boards. These influential art pieces are helping spread the word of the candidates-and helping to change the election landscape one sharpie scribble at a time.
Although the campaign trail is steering from previous years-the passion and dedication these students have to serving their community has stayed the same.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins
Mary Prindiville, Reporter, Freshman
In this column, Mary Prindiville continues her tips for freshman student-athletes that she began last week.
2. Use Magic Block, and don’t sign up with friends!
After a long morning of classes, Magic Block can seem like a nice time to relax or talk with friends. However, this is actually a very valuable time. I have friends that I don’t have classes with, and at the beginning of the year, I used Magic Block as a time to socialize with them. Magic Block is a whole hour of homework time, and I was wasting it talking with people. It is bad not having class with some of my closest friends, but it is worse having lots of homework and no time to do it. My solution was signing up for Magic Blocks with teachers whose classes were difficult for me. I would also sign up for these blocks without my friends because they were too much of a distraction. After completing half of my homework in school, I felt much more relaxed in the afternoons after practice. Then I could use my weekend time to hang out with my friends, without worrying about overdue assignments.
3. Sign up for what you love.
When I was choosing my classes for this year, I hesitated before clicking Orchestra again. It was my favorite class last year, and I made so many lifelong friends through the bond; however, I didn’t know if it would be too much with my academics. At this time, I didn’t even consider playing on a varsity team, but I was determined to have diverse interests, so I signed up again. I received mixed reviews from people about balancing school with a time-consuming music elective like Orchestra. So far, Orchestra is still my favorite class.
I love experiencing different forms of team building, not just in sports. The kids who are in Orchestra are very different from the ones on my volleyball team, but they are equally great. One of my favorite parts of high school is the ability to be who you are. I am a girl who loves both music and athletics. I'm thrilled that I signed up for such a wonderful community.
My parting advice would be to try anything that looks fun to you, no matter what others say about it, and continue doing what you love.
“I’ll just Chat GPT it.”
Eve Magen, Reporter, Freshman
"I’ll just Chat GPT it” is a sentence most of us use nowadays. What’s the point of spending hours carefully doing school work just to get a 92 when AI can craft you a perfect essay in seconds that is “A+” worthy? Confidently, we stroll into class with all our work being done within 5 minutes, only to be met with a test worth 40% of your grade that you didn’t do a single worksheet for. This is the mistake most of us make, using Chat GPT as a “doer,” rather than a helper. You can get so much done with it while you’re still learning and not breaking any rules, so here are a few ways to use Chat GPT and still be prepared and confident for any test, quiz, or essay that may come your way.
One of my favorite ways to use Chat GPT is to have it create study guides and flashcards for you. After writing an abundant amount of notes, and you are now expected to study them all, it can feel overwhelming and difficult. How can you study a bunch of notes effectively? Easy. Simply take photos of all your notes and ask Chat GPT to make you a study guide.
Headlight Staff 2025 - 2026
From there, you can even take it a step further by inserting said study guide into a free study app called “Quizlet," which will then create flashcards, practice quizzes, and even fun games out of the study guide for you to study easily from the comfort of your cell phone. Ethical, easy, and a guaranteed “A.”
Another great way to use Chat GPT to your learning advantage is by treating it as a spelling and grammar corrector. After writing an essay, article, short story, or anything along those lines, simply copy and paste it into Chat GPT and request it to edit any spelling or grammatical mistakes you made. Now, you have a phenomenal essay that YOU created but with machine polish. (Make sure if you do this on an assignment you inform your teachers that you used AI only to correct your grammar, not to write the essay for you).
On a final note, AI is transforming our world, and it's important to understand how to let it work with you, rather than for or against you.
ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall
REPORTERS: Anna Baughman, Teagan Freedman, Eve Magen, Maya Berman, Piper Browning, Sophie Li, Mary Prindiville, Theodore Benning, Madeline Duffy
FACULTY ADVISOR: Mr. Higgins
