12.03.2025 - Volume 4, Issue 2

christmas walk schedule

IN THIS ISSUE

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MARBLEHEAD, MA PERMIT NO. 25

PULLOUT GUIDE TO ALL THE ACTIVITIES THIS WEEKEND, PAGES 4-5 NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

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DECEMBER 3, 2025

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VOLUME 4, ISSUE NO. 2

FIRST WAVE 1

Town leaders point fingers in discussion on underage drinking. Page 1.

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MARBLEHEADCURRENT.ORG

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The Magicians beat Swampscott in another Thanksgiving matchup. Page 1.

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ON SOCIAL @MHDCURRENT

about sports are 3 Thinking 5 Winter 4 Marblehead making eco-friendly Counseling Center underway! Check out

changes? Free energy coaches in town can help. Page 7.

has tips on managing holiday anxiety. Page 13.

the schedule on page 11.

Five facts from this week’s Marblehead Current.

FOOTBALL

Lucky 13: Marblehead tops Swampscott, 29-22, in Thanksgiving Day thriller

UNDERAGE DRINKING

Chief defends enforcement of host laws Comments come after accusations from health board member

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Gallup, busting the coverage and sprinting 59 yards to the endzone to tie the game.

Owen Coyne would give Marblehead the opportunity to double their lead when he picked off von Barta’s pass, but the Headers would be forced to punt the ball back to the Big Blue. The Swampscott return would be nullified by a penalty, backing the visitors up to their own

Police Chief Dennis King answered accusations that he is not enforcing local and state social host laws that make anyone who gives alcohol to a »For the latest on this minor or allows underage drinking developing news, visit MarbleheadCurrent.org. on property they control responsible for the consequences. The laws are designed to prevent and/or address risky and harmful drinking behavior, King said.

“As police chief, I strongly believe that criminal charges alone do not change a young person’s trajectory; consistent support, intervention and measured accountability do,” King wrote in a statement released late Monday. “Our goal is not to criminalize Marblehead’s youth, but to nurture them.”

King continued, “When enforcing Social Host Law, which we do in Marblehead, not every call meets the legal threshold for charges or fines, and both a juvenile and/ or an adult may face them. Many situations require careful investigation, documentation, parental engagement and, whenever it is appropriate, an arrest or diversion may occur. When enforcement is warranted, we pursue it through criminal complaints or

FOOTBALL, P. 9

DRINKING, P. 2

COURTESY PHOTO / EYAL OREN, WEDNESDAYS IN MARBLEHEAD

Marblehead’s James Machado celebrates after scoring the game winning touchdown in the 116th Thanksgiving morning game between Marblehead and Swampscott at Piper Field.

BY LUCA TEDESCO The Marblehead Magicians took home the turkey on Thanksgiving morning at Piper Field, beating the Swampscott Big Blue, 29-22, and retaining the Rotary Cup for the 13th consecutive year.

“Well, I didn’t think we were going to win,” said head coach Jim Rudloff.

“We went through all of our running backs today. We went through three linemen. We had three starters get

injured in the first quarter… Honestly, it didn’t really feel like a victory until the very end.”

Swampscott put points on the board with their opening possession, with quarterback John von Barta throwing a 49-yard touchdown pass to Chase Groothuis early in the first quarter.

Not to be outdone, the Magicians would score just two plays later when Landon Dosch caught a strike over the middle of the field from Finn

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS

as beautifully and warmly as it can be on an early December weekend. And it’s a great time to do some gift shopping.”

The 54th Christmas Walk steps off this weekend

Weekend highlights:

It’s an extra special event for Mrs. Claus

BY LEIGH BLANDER The 54th annual Marblehead Christmas Walk weekend kicks off Thursday, Dec. 4, with beloved traditions including the tree lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus’ arrival by lobster boat, parade and more.

This year’s celebration carries extra meaning for Laura Best, Mrs. Claus’ longtime “helper.”

After more than four decades of listening to wishes and waving to crowds, Best will make her final appearance arriving with Santa and marching in the parade.

Mrs. Claus will have the honor of flipping the switch at Friday night’s tree lighting.

What will Best miss most after this year?

“The children,” she said without hesitation. “The look

on their faces, the way they look at me with awe. They look at you like you’re a princess. I once held a 3-day-old baby at the Christmas Walk. I’ll also miss the reception the town gives us.”

Chamber of Commerce Vice President Gene Arnould looks forward to the Christmas Walk every year.

“Like the Arts Festival in the summer, Christmas Walk is a

COURTESY PHOTO

Mrs. Claus greets her fans along the Marblehead Christmas Walk parade route.

party that Marblehead throws for itself each December,” Arnould said. “It’s a time to meet and greet friends, to welcome Santa arriving at the landing and watch him parade through the town. It’s a 54-year tradition of seeing the town dressed up

Thursday, Dec. 5: Holiday shopping preview night around town Friday, Dec. 5: Tree lighting, festivities start at 5:30 p.m. at National Grand parking lot Saturday, Dec. 6: 9 a.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at State Street Landing; 11:45 a.m., parade begins on State Street Sunday, Dec. 7: Events, shopping throughout town Find the Christmas Walk’s full schedule on pages 4-5.

For more information, visit marbleheadchamber.org.

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SCHOOLS

At MHS, Vets, schedules go back to the future Marblehead Superintendent John Robidoux sent a message to families on Nov. 25, announcing that schedules at MHS and Veterans School are changing back to what they were last year.

“At the beginning of the school year, our community was notified

about some adjustments to the school schedules. These changes were intended to address the need for extended recess time in grades K-6,” Robidoux wrote. “It became apparent, however, that further discussion regarding the impact of the time change at the

secondary level needed to occur. In collaboration with the Marblehead School Committee, union leadership and school administration, we successfully resolved this concern.”

The following schedules took effect Dec. 1: Veterans School: Student arrival

time stays the same (7:50 a.m.); school now starts at 8 a.m., and dismissal remains at 2:30 p.m.

MHS: Student arrival time stays the same (7:45 a.m.); school now starts at 7:55 a.m., and dismissal time will now be 2:30 p.m., instead of 2:37 p.m.

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT. CHAIR

2026 Youth Winter Exhibit

Come to the Abbot Public Library for a free, one-hour program on how to make and keep your New Year’s resolutions.

The Marblehead Fire Department is alerting residents about the recall of the Tesla Powerwall 2 AC Battery Power system due to fire concerns.

MFD warning: Recall and fire warning Marblehead Fire Department is alerting residents about the recall of the Tesla Powerwall 2 AC Battery Power system that can catch fire. Consumers should make sure their Powerwall 2 system is online and check the Tesla app for a notification about whether their unit is included in the recall.

Tesla has remotely discharged (or removed energy from the battery of) affected Powerwall 2 systems that are online to

Marblehead Arts Association announces “Variations,” the annual national exhibit featuring works by artists from across the country this spring.

prevent overheating until the replacement is installed. Anyone with questions should contact the Fire Prevention unit at 781639-3427 or fireprevention@ marbleheadma.gov.

Age well: How to stick to your New Year’s resolutions Come to the Abbot Library on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 2 p.m. for a free, one-hour program on

how to set and keep New Year’s resolutions. Author Dr. Catherine Sanderson, an expert in positive psychology, will examine important tools to help you meet goals.

A viewing of the online lecture will be held at Abbot Library, followed by a discussion.

Registration is required and limited to 35. Register at tinyurl. com/Age-Well-New-Year. If you cannot attend in person, register for the program or

The Marblehead Arts Association Youth Council is inviting young artists, both MAA members and non-members, to participate in an open exhibit of 2D and 3D artwork, with all mediums welcome. The deadline for online submission is Monday, Jan. 12, 5 p.m. Works must be dropped off at the MAA no later than Jan. 13 at 4:30 p.m.

The show will be judged for awards. Artists aged 18 and under are encouraged to partake in the exhibition and can submit multiple pieces. All work must be framed, wired or ready to display.

To register, visit: form.jotform. com/251346688961167.

‘Variations’ call for artists The Marblehead Arts Association is inviting artists across the country to participate in its exhibit “Variations” at 8 Hooper Street.

Artwork will be juried for acceptance and judged for prizes in fine art, photography and 3D works. Awards will be presented at the opening reception on Sunday, April 19. For more information, visit: marbleheadarts.org/ variations-2026/.

NEIGHBOR HELPING NEIGHBOR

Students step up to support Food Pantry SUBMITTED CONTENT Students across Marblehead once again rolled up their sleeves to support the Marblehead Food Pantry in the busy days before Thanksgiving.

The tradition began 25 years ago, when Marblehead High School first organized a drive to help stock the pantry with Thanksgiving items. The Village School joined the effort 18 years ago, followed by the Brown and Glover schools, creating a townwide campaign that has grown year after year.

On the morning of Nov. 24, students helped load cars and trucks for the “Thanksgiving elves” — Mark and Linda Mills, Rob Gorman, Seamus Kraft and Lisa Gorman — who delivered the donations to the pantry’s storage area.

Marblehead High School plans to keep the momentum going with another food collection in January.

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Some of the groceries donated during Cranksgiving, organized by Marblehead Cycle owner Dan Shuman.

Editor - Leigh Blander

kolson@marbleheadnews.org

The Current welcomes 150–200word submissions to News in Brief. Send yours to info@ marbleheadnews.org.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 3

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Consulting Editor - Kris Olson

NEWS IN BRIEF

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Saoirse Stallings CONTRIBUTORS

Lizzie Assa Stephen Bach Linda Bassett Virginia Buckingham Laurie Fullerton James (Seamus) Hourihan Christine McCarriston Maggie Mulvihill Eyal Oren Pam Peterson Emily Promise Chris Stevens

CYCLE FOR GOOD

Cranksgiving a success

BY LEIGH BLANDER Marblehead Cycle delivered nearly 200 pounds of donated food to the Marblehead Food Pantry as part of Cranksgiving, a bike ride and food drive held in partnership with seven other bike shops across the North Shore.

Marblehead Cycle owner

Dan Shuman launched the effort. In Marblehead, riders met at his Bessom Street shop, cycled to Shubie’s and Crosby’s to purchase items, and then pedaled back to drop off bags of food.

Shuman said he hopes to organize a second annual North Shore Cranksgiving next year.

Students at the Brown School pitch in to collect and donate Thanksgiving items for the Marblehead Food Pantry.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Glover School students collect items for the Marblehead Food Pantry in the days leading up to Thanksgiving. The effort is part of the long-running Neighbor Helping Neighbor campaign.

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Drinking From P. 1

local bylaw citations. When education and redirection will more effectively prevent future harm, we use those tools as well.”

At a Nov. 24 meeting, Board of Health member Tom McMahon accused King of failing to issue social host citations and, thereby, putting residents at risk.

“No fine has been issued related to these laws since 2017,” McMahon said. “So, we have the tools to address this issue, and we aren’t using them. You might ask, ‘Well, maybe the police aren’t catching these people.’ Buy a police scanner. They’re breaking up these parties all the time at the same houses. The officers are taking orders from the top.”

In response to a request from the Current, Town Clerk Robin Michaud released the list of citations dating back to 2009. » 2009 – 5 » 2010 – 5 » 2011 – 1 » 2012 – 1 » 2014 – 2 » 2015 – 1 » 2016 – 1 » 2017 – 3 She confirmed there had been no citations since 2017. (The fines are $150 to the adult in charge of the home and $25 to each underage person at the party, Michaud said.)

Taking aim at King, McMahon continued at the Nov. 24 meeting, “This lack of action comes from the style of the police chief. That style is counterproductive and ignorant. It needs to stop. There is zero fear of consequence for these parents who are breaking the law and endangering the youth.”

McMahon said he is part of a leadership group — with members of the School Committee, Recreation and Parks Commission and Select Board — discussing underage drinking in Marblehead. He is urging the Select Board, which oversees the police chief, to do more.

“We need the chief to revisit his position on handling this issue, which has proven to be a failure and only caused the problem to escalate,” McMahon said. “We also need the Select Board to make sure he does so. “This shouldn’t be a debate. I shouldn’t have to do what a Select Board member suggested and sit down and have a conversation with the chief about enforcing these laws — that’s ridiculous. This is his job, and not doing that

job or picking and choosing which laws to enforce is putting all our kids at risk.”

In his statement, King said, “As a department, we have several measures in place to support youths through community-based measures. I have worked with Juvenile Probation to develop and implement the successful On Point program, which has earned a strong reputation as an alternative to detention, geared to rehabilitate through structured engagement rather than simply punitive measures. School Resource Officer Sweeney is also available for students and families. I have full trust in him as we develop approaches together in response to identified trends involving youth in town, including underaged drinking.”

King added: Marblehead Police are committed to intervening early to prevent harm before it escalates; applying the Social Host Law fairly, consistently and transparently; using diversion when it can meaningfully support a young person’s development; and working closely with families, schools and community organizations to actively hear and incorporate community perspectives.”

Select Board chair fires back

Select Board Chair Dan Fox responded to McMahon’s comments on Nov. 25.

“Let me state this plainly and unequivocally: I have full confidence in Chief Dennis King… The statements made at the Board of Health meeting, including the allegation that ‘orders from the top’ prevent enforcement of social hosting laws and the characterization of the chief ’s leadership as ‘counterproductive and ignorant,’ are inaccurate, unsupported and deeply unfair,” Fox wrote in a statement to the Current. “They also reflect a misunderstanding of how these laws are enforced. Social hosting investigations require meeting specific legal standards of evidence and due process. Enforcement is not as simple as issuing a citation on demand.”

Fox also criticized the way McMahon handled his comments about King.

“Just as concerning as the content of the accusation is the method used to deliver it,” Fox wrote. “Making a serious allegation of misconduct against a department head, without first speaking to Chief King, town staff or any Select Board member, or seeking to verify the facts, is not an appropriate or responsible way to raise concerns. Publicly

leveling unvetted accusations at a televised meeting does not foster cooperation; it undermines trust, damages working relationships and does a disservice to the public.”

Fox continued, “I share the community’s concern about underage drinking and social hosting. These issues deserve focused, coordinated and informed action. That is why I have been actively gathering information, speaking with town staff and reviewing the facts. That work is ongoing and will continue in a professional and respectful manner.”

Vaccines and autism

Also at the Nov. 24 meeting, BoH member Dr. Amanda Ritvo spoke about the recent change to the CDC website that says the statement that vaccines do not cause autism is not evidence-based.

“It’s really important to note that there’s been no new data or research that went into this change,” Ritvo said. “This is the viewpoint of one individual, Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr.” Ritvo continued, “Millions of children have been studied across the world, and the conclusion has been consistent every time that there is no increased risk of autism in vaccinated children… Sowing this doubt in the minds of parents is very dangerous, and we know from history that it can lead to tragic, preventable illness and death.”

Instead of the CDC, Ritvo urged parents to seek guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Academy of Family Physicians.

New flu strain

Ritvo also spoke about a new flu strain that is not covered by this year’s flu vaccine.

“This K strain falls under the H3N2 subtypes, which generally cause more illness in older adults compared to the H1N1 subtypes. Importantly, subtype K is not more virulent than other H3N2 strains that have been circulating since the 1960s, so it’s unlikely to cause a pandemic,” she explained.

She continued, “The current mismatch [between the strain and the vaccine] is a concern because it can lead to more hospitalizations and more severe illness this season. That’s why it remains crucial that everyone gets vaccinated. Even in a mismatched year, the flu vaccine still significantly reduces hospitalizations and severe disease in both children and adults.”

Ritvo said flu rates right now are relatively low but are climbing.

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

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Introducing

Join us and make a difference!

The Landing, Discover Marblehead, and the Paddling Santas are teaming up for a festive FUNdraiser benefiting the MHD Food Pantry.

ADVERTISE

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

Sunday Dec. 7 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Landing

VOLUNTEER

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

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

REACT

The Power 20 Challenge To celebrate Giving Tuesday, a Marblehead benefactor has issued a "Power 20" challenge!

This week, when 20 new donors make gifts to the Current, our supporter will add $20 to each gift.

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

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Welcome the Santa Paddlers at State Street Landing at 11:30am, then head inside to eat, drink, and be merry!

Visit marbleheadcurrent.org/donate or scan this code with your phone.

Event proceeds + 15% of food sales will support th MHD Food Pantry. the

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Donate to MHD Food Pantry

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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6th

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4th

9am Santa's Landing - Don't miss the magic of Santa and Mrs. Claus arriving by lobster boat at the State Street landing!

Holiday Shopping Preview Night 10am-5pm Irresistibles' special promotions all weekend long 11am-5pm Marblehead Custom Jewelry Gold Coin Giveaway 5pm Tory's Jewelry Open house; enter to win a $150 gift card 5-7pm Farine Special Hours. Visit us during the Christmas Walk Holiday Shopping Preview

Free trolley service from 10am-5pm (parking at Marblehead High School).

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 5

11am-5pm Marblehead Custom Jewelry Gold Coin Giveaway

11:45am Christmas Walk Parade steps off from State Street landing!

12-1pm All Chic At 152 Pictures with Santa

9am-3pm Our Lady Star of the Sea Christmas Fair

1pm Flores Mantilla Christmas with warm beverages, cookies, and live music

9am-3pm Unitarian Universalist Church Red Bow Fair; children's events begin at 1pm

1-3pm Our Lady Star of the Sea Living Nativity and Animal Petting Zoo

9:30am Old Town Cocoa Stop at Living Swell

1-3pm Marblehead Bank's Gingerbread House Party.

Meet the ponies from Hunters Haven Farm

10am-2pm St. Michael's Heart of Christmas Market and silent auction SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7th

5-7pm All Chic At 152 Ladies Night out for the Sip-Shop-Save 5-7pm Hestia Creations' Holiday Sip and Shop

Free trolley service from 10am-5pm (parking at Marblehead High School).

6:30-7:30pm St. Michael's Episcopal Church Tree Lighting

10am–4pm Marblehead Festival of Arts 2025 Artisans' Holiday Marketplace at Abbot Hall

7:30-9pm St. Michael's Episcopal Church North Shore Chamber Music Society Holiday Concert

10am AGA Interior Design Pop-Up and Open House with Lily Johannsen Designs

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5th

11am-3pm Marblehead Family Fund and Marblehead Museum Gingerbread Festival at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion

10am-5pm Irresistibles' special promotions continue

11am-5pm Room Tonic Elemental Space Clearing special with purchase

11am-5pm Marblehead Custom Jewelry Gold Coin Giveaway

11am-5pm Marblehead Custom Jewelry Gold Coin Giveaway

ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING! 5:30pm Festivities begin and tree lighting att 7pm. Join us for music and entertainment att the National Grand Bank parking lot on Essex Street, across from 91 Pleasant Street.

11:30am-2pm Visit The Landing where Discover Marblehead & the Paddling Santas are teaming up for a FUNdraiser

6-8pm St. Michael's Episcopal Church Heart of Christmas Fundraising Gala

The Marblehead Christmas Walk is hosted by the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by the Marblehead business community

12-2pm Creature Comforts & Pawsitively Marblehead host Dog Photos with Santa

10am-4pm Marblehead Family Fund and Marblehead Museum Gingerbread Festival at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion

12-3pm Hestia Creations PYOP Paint & Take Event

10am-5pm Irresistibles' special promotions continue

12-4pm Irresistibles' special promotions continue

10am–6pm Marblehead Festival of Arts Artisans' Holiday Marketplace at Abbot Hall

5-7pm St. Michael's Episcopal Church Advent Lessons and carols

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 7

GOING GREEN

Opinion

Efficiency coaches help Headers save money — and the environment

BY LUCA TEDESCO

EDITORIAL

THE VAULT

A time to come Capturing history in a photo together and celebrate

BY JARRETT ZEMAN

A big “Ho, Ho, Ho” and “Merry Christmas” to the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce and our business, cultural arts, and religious communities for supporting and organizing the 54th annual Christmas Walk and Holiday Stroll, Thursday, Dec. 4 through Sunday, Dec. 6. It takes a Santa’s village to make it all happen. It’s a joyous tradition no one should miss!

According to the Chamber, the Walk and Stroll is widely known “as one of the finest holiday happenings in New England. Marblehead Christmas Walk is a signature event that captures the warmth of the holiday season throughout the entire town. This is a time when Marblehead’s historic charm shines bright, and the festive spirit of the holidays provides a truly enchanting experience.”

The Christmas Walk, like our Fourth of July celebration, is when Marblehead goes all out with lights, banners, decorations, wreaths, bows, parades and music to showcase the town’s beauty, celebrate the spirit of the season, and show our support for each other and the community.

Start your shopping early by attending the Shopping Preview Night on Thursday evening. Local retailers offer special deals on their merchandise with refreshments and treats for shoppers to enjoy.

The annual Christmas Tree lighting takes place at the National Grand Bank parking lot on Friday evening.

Festivities begin at 5:30 with the lighting at 7. This is one of the town’s best traditions and well-attended events, thanks to the generosity of the National Grand Bank and the work of Matt Martin.

It’s a festive occasion when families gather for musical performances, sing-alongs and hot chocolate. Mrs. Claus — and her “assistant” Laura Best — will flip the switch this year. Best has aided Mrs. Claus for over 40 years and has helped many, many children overcome their fears of Santa. Get there early!

On Saturday morning, between 8:30 and 9, don’t miss the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by lobster boat at State Street Landing. It’s a unique event — something that happens in only a couple of other places on the North Shore. Children look forward to speaking with Santa to let him know they have been very, very good all year.

Then at noon, the Christmas Walk Parade kicks off, winding its way from the Boston Yacht Club to the National Grand Bank parking lot, ending in early afternoon. Colorful holiday floats, the Marblehead High School Marching Band, the Glover’s Regiment, and the Girl and Boy Scouts, among others, take part in the parade. There are plenty of revelers along the parade route, so scout out your viewing spot early.

Markets, fairs, concerts and other activities take place throughout the town on Saturday and Sunday. A complete schedule of events can be found elsewhere in today’s edition.

Free trolley service is available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, with frequent stops to help revelers get around. The trolley has its own holiday vibe, making a ride well worth it. The trolley and Christmas Walk Parade Map can be found by scanning the QR code here.

The town does a terrific job during the holidays helping those who may need a little assistance and Christmas cheer. Donations of money, food, toys, time and service make a real difference to our neighbors.

Here are just some of the organizations in town where contributions can be made: » Making Ends Meet, makingendsmeetmhead.org » Marblehead Food Pantry, marbleheadfoodpantry.org » Marblehead Family Fund, mhdfamilyfund.org/about » Edith Dodge Memorial Fund, edithdodgemf.org The Beacon Restaurant, thebeaconmarblehead.com, spearheads donations to the Michael Havens Toy Drive.

Unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the restaurant or various spots throughout town.

In a year marked by local friction and division, we look to our Walk and Stroll as a time to set aside our differences, come together as a community, and celebrate the holidays.

It’s a time for “peace on earth and goodwill toward men,” a practice we hope will last all year long.

On October 7, 1860, a 102-yearold man hobbled into the studio of Southworth and Hawes at 19 Tremont Row in Boston.

Infirm with age and grasping a wooden cane, he sat before a gray background and glowered at the camera for this ambrotype.

Ralph Farnham was one of the last living veterans of the Revolutionary War. A farmer from Acton, Maine, he served for two months as a private in the 13th Massachusetts Regiment and witnessed the surrender of British General Burgoyne in 1777.

A 102nd birthday party for Farnham in Maine caught the attention of Boston Mayor Frederic Lincoln, who invited the veteran to Boston. Farnham attended a ceremony in his honor at Bunker Hill, where a crowd of 5,000 sat in rapt attention as Farnham shared his memories of the war.

At the Revere House, Farnham met the Prince of Wales, the greatgreat-grandson of King George III. Farnham considered it crucial to meet the prince and shake his hand, “to show that past animosities were forgotten, which he hoped would never be revived” as the Boston Evening Transcript reported.

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead shoemaker Eleazer Doliber bought this ambrotype of a 102-yearold Revolutionary War veteran. It is now at the Marblehead Museum.

Farnham’s wish proved poignant for New Englanders in 1860, who could hear the faint drumbeats of war grow louder with each passing year.

Southworth and Hawes sold copies of the Farnham ambrotype out of their studio. Like many veterans, Farnham struggled to survive on a pension of $61 per year; sitting for ambrotypes raised money for his healthcare needs and drew attention to veteran affairs.

A Marblehead shoemaker named Eleazer Doliber purchased one just months before enlisting in the Union Army. It remained in his family until 1910, when his grandniece donated it to the Marblehead Museum.

Jarrett Zeman is the assistant director of the Marblehead Museum.

“From the Vault” is a partnership between the Marblehead Museum and the Current.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

What to do if your computer is compromised by a hacker

BY STEPHEN BACH

When your computer starts acting strange, it’s tempting to shrug it off as a glitch. But unusual behavior — slowdowns, popups or friends receiving odd messages — can be early signs of a hack. Acting quickly makes a big difference. And NEVER, EVER respond to a pop-up message that tells you something like “call Microsoft immediately.” About half of the issues we see every week at The Docs have to do with hackers, and it’s not pretty!

The first step is to disconnect from the internet. Turn off Wi-Fi or unplug the cable. If windows open or close on their own, shut the computer down. Avoid clicking any pop-ups claiming to fix the issue.

Next, use another device to protect your accounts. Do NOT

use the compromised computer!

Change your email, banking and shopping passwords. Turn on twofactor authentication.

Then run a full malware scan.

Windows and macOS both include built-in tools. If the scan keeps detecting the same threat, the infection may be more serious.

Check your browser for extensions you didn’t install.

Malware often hides there. Remove anything suspicious and reset your browser if it continues to behave

oddly.

Install updates for your operating system, browser, apps and antivirus software. Many attacks happen because devices aren’t updated.

Check your accounts and financial statements for unusual activity. If anything looks suspicious, contact your bank.

Before more drastic repairs, back up your documents and photos using a clean external drive.

If malware keeps returning, the computer won’t boot, or you see a ransom message, call a professional. The Digital Docs helps people with this every week.

A few habits — strong passwords, updates, and cautious clicking — go a long way. If trouble strikes, stay calm and follow the steps above.

Until next time… stay safe out there!

Stephen Bach is the owner and chief of surgery at The Digital Docs in Marblehead.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A ‘huge thank you to Marblehead’ To the editor: The Marblehead Food Pantry wishes to express our sincere thank you to our community.

Through the generosity and kindness of our residents, our food pantry and storage area are filled with wonderful resources.

Monetary donations all turn into food and our Thanksgiving distribution of Turkeys and all the fixings was a success.

An additional thank you to all of our volunteers that coordinated the

transportation of turkeys and pies from Crosbys, all the produce and fixings from Market Basket, and to everyone that packed bags and distributed everything in the rain.

We want to acknowledge all of the businesses, organizations and residents that donated and came to our aid when it was needed most.

As we reflect on this holiday season, it is important to remember that this need continues for many households beyond the holidays.

We wish you all a happy holiday season.

Marcy Schwam, Marblehead Food Pantry

Giving Tuesday To the editor: TL;DR — Please donate, we need the money.

The last few years have been tough for all nonprofit organizations, but the arts have been particularly hard hit. Some grants and other types of funding have been eliminated while the competition to secure others has become fierce. The Marblehead Arts Association has a double financial challenge as not only do we seek to promote art and support our artists, we are also committed to

More homeowners are exploring sustainable heating and cooling systems and electric appliances — but figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming.

That’s where Sustainable Marblehead’s new energycoaching program comes in.

The nonprofit launched the initiative to help residents shrink their carbon footprints by offering in-home guidance on everything from solar panels and battery storage to heat pumps, weatherization, electric vehicles and efficient appliances.

“This is a more expanded way to communicate with residents about their options for decarbonizing their homes,” said coach Lisa Wolf, who helped design the program after starting a similar one in Wellesley.

Wolf recruited five additional coaches, all of whom completed a six-week training through the Heat Smart Alliance, a volunteer group promoting sustainable home heating and cooling across Massachusetts.

“It’s a bunch of retired engineers, mostly,” Wolf said with a laugh. “They understand the need to decarbonize and they understand the technology.

It’s complicated and confusing, but they can help.”

One of the first residents to participate was Amy Berenson,

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COURTESY IMAGE / SUSTAINABLE MARBLEHEAD

CURRENT PHOTO / LUCA TEDESCO

Efficiency coach Lisa Wolf (left) helped Amy Berenson discover new heating solutions for her Marblehead home this winter.

who has lived in Marblehead for more than 30 years.

“When you’re making a huge investment in your house, it’s helpful to have a knowledgeable consultant by your side,” Berenson said. “None of the consulting cost us any extra money, and I wouldn’t have known about all the rebates. It’s actually saved me money in the long run.”

Berenson first met with Wolf on Oct. 20.

“Lisa provided a list of vetted contractors, which saved us significant time and gave us confidence that we were dealing with knowledgeable

professionals,” Berenson said.

“For a layperson, navigating conversations about BTUs, electrical requirements and airflow can be overwhelming — especially considering it’s an $8,000 to $13,000 investment.

Lisa helped me understand the technical aspects of both the equipment and the installation so we could evaluate proposals as informed consumers. I sent her the contractor proposals, and she offered helpful feedback about our lead candidate.”

Berenson added: “We selected a contractor in late October, and the installation was completed on Nov. 15 — just about a

one-month turnaround, which was important because a large rebate expires Dec. 31.”

Although heat pumps can carry a high upfront cost, they pay for themselves quickly because of their efficiency, Wolf said.

“Whatever the most efficient gas furnace could be, a heat pump is three times more efficient,” she said. “In terms of operating costs, you’re going to save money on fuel over the winter if you convert to heat pumps. And if you start by properly insulating and airsealing your home, you save money right away because your home becomes more efficient.

That’s the goal — to help people reduce energy costs and their carbon footprint.”

In the program’s first month, 11 households signed up for coaching.

Wolf said the financial benefits

are significant.

“Converting your heat from an efficient gas system to heat pumps will save you several hundred dollars per year,” she said. “If you replace propane with a heat pump, you can cut your heating bill in half — from about $4,000 to $2,000.

Charging an EV at home costs less than half of gas per mile, and if you have solar, you can potentially eliminate all carfueling costs. Electric appliances are more efficient, safer and healthier, though savings there are smaller.”

Sustainable Marblehead hopes more residents will take advantage of the coaching program as the town works toward its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

To learn more, visit sustainablemarblehead.org/ energycoaching.

ENERGY

Light GM: Lithium-ion battery storage could save ratepayers $500K annually

BY LEIGH BLANDER The Marblehead Municipal Light Department is considering a project that could save ratepayers about $500,000 a year and provide “short-term resiliency for the community,” according to MMLD General Manager Jon Blair.

At a Nov. 24 meeting, Blair said the department is negotiating with LightShift Energy to build a five-megawatt, lithium-ion battery storage system at the Village 13 substation along the Rail Trail.

Addressing concerns that lithium-ion batteries can overheat and cause fires, Blair told the Current, “There is an inherent risk, but one we can manage.”

He said he is in discussions

Wakefield, Groton, Sterling, Holden and other communities.

The battery system would be located inside the existing fence at the Village 13 substation.

Once MMLD approves the project, it would take about 18 months to complete, Blair said.

He encouraged residents with questions or input to attend the Light Board’s next meeting on Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. at MMLD, 80 Commercial St. and online. with Marblehead Fire Chief Jason Gilliland to minimize danger.

Blair emphasized that utilities like MMLD are experiencing significant “load growth” due to increasing electricity use by data centers, heat pumps, and electric vehicles and devices.

“The appetite for energy is

Letters From P. 6

preserving our home, the King Hooper Mansion.

In 2028, the King Hooper Mansion will be 300 years old. Thanks to the commitment and dedication of architectural experts such as Bruce Greenwald, Tom Saltzman, John Wathne and others that reaches back decades, the old boy is in amazing condition. Many of the original features remain unchanged.

The roof, siding and foundation are in great shape. We have a new boiler, we now have an accessible bathroom, the windows have been fully restored and we have a modern kitchen.

But it has cost a fortune and there is still much to do. The fundraising never ends.

We operate on a shoestring budget with a small staff that frequently goes above and beyond in their duties, but most of what we do is thanks to an

not decreasing,” he said. “This battery will help us manage how much we are exposed to rising costs so we can maintain more affordable rates.”

The project has been under discussion for a few years, Blair said, and the technology is not brand new. LightShift Energy has built similar systems in

army of volunteers. We would love to be able to take some of the burden off our volunteers, take on more paid staff and give them a living wage.

We’d also be thrilled if we could make more of an investment in our artists; we dream of offering residencies, being able to award larger prizes in our judged exhibitions and giving more to young artists through scholarships and paid internships. But, again, that all takes funding.

We appreciate the emotional impact that constantly being asked to give money has on our supporters and that “donor fatigue” is real. With this in mind, we have tried to be judicious in our asking; not too much and not too often. But even so, frequently the answer is, “Sorry, no.”

The MAA is committed to collaboration with other community groups. This year alone we have provided support to Beyond Walls, the Marblehead Museum, the Marblehead Festival of Arts, the Friends of the

Green Community surcharge questions Blair also addressed questions about whether he supports Marblehead becoming a statedesignated Green Community, which would require MMLD to charge ratepayers a .25 cent energy surcharge every month, according to Blair. Green

Performing Arts, Wings, the Marblehead Current and others. When they ask if we can help them by sharing our resources or hosting events, the answer is always, “of course!”

We are proud to do this but in order for us to fulfill our mission of supporting the arts and preserving the King Hooper Mansion, we need more people to say “yes” to us.

At the MAA we realize that the area we live in is no different than many other small New England communities, in that we have numerous important institutions that do good work all reaching out to the same pool of potential donors. Nobody likes asking for money but we need your help, your support and your financial gifts. Please donate, we need the money.

Then together we can look forward to another 300 years of being the place where art and history meet.

Xhazzie Kindle, Marblehead Arts Association executive director 8 Hooper St.

Community status would allow Marblehead to apply for hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants.

Currently, however, Marblehead is ineligible for those grants, due to its noncompliance with the MBTA Communities Act (G.L.c. 40A, §3A), a housing law designed to ease the housing crunch across the state.

“It should be off the table until we are eligible for those grants,” Blair said. “It makes no sense to pay into a program that is intended to unlock grants for us when we are ineligible for those grants. Once we’re compliant, that’s another conversation and one for the (light board) commissioners to have. There are alternatives we could consider.”

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: The author’s name. Unsigned letters and form letters will not be published.

The name of the street on which the author lives in Marblehead. Only the street name will be published next to the author’s name – not their full address.

The author’s daytime/cell phone number for verification purposes (not publication).

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.

Letters must be received by noon on Friday in order to be printed in the following week’s print edition.

marbleheadcurrent.org

8 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Marblehead Current

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead tops Swampscott in Thanksgiving day thriller

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 9

Sports GRIDIRON

Old Timers Night: An annual truce between Marblehead and Swampscott

Marblehead’s Trent Brown (14) fights off Noah Bascon (0) to make an important catch in the 116th Thanksgiving morning game between Marblehead and Swampscott at Piper Field.

BY LUCA TEDESCO

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Marblehead’s Trent Brown (14) and Owen Coyne (18) celebrate after Swampscott’s Hail Mary pass is knocked down to end the 116th Thanksgiving morning game between Marblehead and Swampscott at Piper Field.

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Marblehead players and students celebrate the football team’s 60th Thanksgiving morning victory over arch-rival Swampscott at Piper Field.

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BEGINNERS (AGE 3) THROUGH GRADE 8

Over 200 Marblehead and Swampscott football alums met at the Gerry No. 5 Veteran Fireman’s Association function hall on Nov. 24 night for the annual Old Timers night hosted by the Marblehead Gridiron Club.

“This is really quite unique,” said Evan Harris, president of the Marblehead Gridiron Club and a member of the MHS class of 1976. “I know of no other two rival towns that would do anything like this. It’s something everyone looks forward to. You see old friends and teammates and people you played against.

It’s just a whole bunch of fun and it’s a great way to kick off the Thanksgiving week.”

The dinner, hosted each year by the Gridiron Club of the home team for the Thanksgiving morning game, is a major source of funding for the two club’s scholarship funds and the youth football programs in each town.

Graduates from eight different decades were represented at the dinner, spanning from the 1950s all the way to members of Marblehead’s 2021 state championship winning team.

“I just talked with someone from the class of 1960 and I’m sure there’s a few people who have been around longer,” said Josh Robertson (MHS 2022).

“Having such a wide range of graduates, just seeing what it was like for them in the program

CURRENT PHOTOS / LUCA TEDESCO

Members of the 2021 Super Bowl winning team socialize at the 2025 Old Timers Night.

Former Patriots left tackle Matt Light was the keynote speaker.

a while ago… it’s just a special program.”

Volunteers running a 50/50

Marblehead head coach Jim Rudloff addressed the Old Timers Night attendees, discussing the Magicians’ season and introducing the rest of his staff.

raffle at the Thanksgiving Day game were also in attendance

Nov. 24.

“It’s nice to see a lot of these guys who I actually saw as a kid,” said Barbara-Sue Roselle, the lone Swampscott graduate on the raffle crew.

“I think I was one of the first Powderpuff participants. When I was a senior in high school, we challenged the juniors at Swampscott and we had a game on Blocksidge Field and Coach [Stan] Bondalevitch let us wear the football uniforms. I remember back in 1959, kicking a field goal at Blocksidge field.

I can’t remember if it was good or if it was bad, but [the powderpuff game] goes way back.”

The highlight of the night

came during speeches from the two head coaches, Swampscott’s Peter Bush and Marblehead’s Jim Rudloff, as well as former NFL offensive lineman and New England Patriots Hall of Famer, Matt Light. Light is the founder and president of the Light Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping young people develop leadership and career skills as well as funding academic scholarships for students in the greater New Bedford area and his native Darke County, Ohio.

“This event is near and dear to me,” said Light. “Dirk and Tara [Martin] have been incredible volunteers for the work we do at the Light Foundation. He asked me to come up and say a few words tonight. I’m more than happy to do so.”

Light, a native of Greenville, Ohio, also recognized the unique nature of Thanksgiving morning high school football, a tradition seldom seen outside of Massachusetts, Connecticut and New Jersey.

“This Thanksgiving game is an interesting concept,” said Light. “We didn’t do this where I grew up. This lag between the end of the season and this last game and what it represents for the respective towns is unique.”

As hundreds of alums from the rival teams shared a steak and fish dinner together, Light said: “Maybe the government can learn something from a moment like this.”

Football From P. 1

8-yard line.

Breydan Callahan would come up with a big sack on third down to force the Swampscott punter to kick with his heels on the end line. With little space to work with the ball was launched straight up, giving Marblehead the ball on the opposing 12-yard line. Finn Gallup would take the ball himself, running around the end of the line to get to the end zone and give the Magicians a 14-7 lead as the first quarter wound to a close.

After the Big Blue punter pinned the Magicians back to their own one-foot line, Callahan would go down with an injury, sucking the life out of the Marblehead offensive unit.

Swampscott would make quick work of the short field they would be given, with van Barta tossing another touchdown to Groothuis to send the game to halftime with the scores level.

The tie would almost instantly be broken after the halftime intermission as Owen Coyne ran the second half kickoff back 75 yards to the house to give the lead back to the Headers.

The Marblehead defense continued to pound the Swampscott line, getting to the quarterback twice in the third quarter and forcing multiple mistakes from von Barta, including an interception thrown into the waiting arms of Trent Brown.

Swampscott’s offense would regroup as the clock wound its way into the fourth quarter,

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

COURTESY PHOTO / EYAL OREN, WEDNESDAYS IN MARBLEHEAD

Breydan Callahan (13) of Marblehead slaps the ball out of the hands of Swampscott quarterback John von Barta (5) in the second quarter of the 116th Thanksgiving morning game between Marblehead and Swampscott at Piper Field.

recovering from a sixth Marblehead sack with another Groothuis touchdown reception, this time a 64-yard catch and run. Swampscott converted the two-point attempt with a scrambling von Barta finding Luke Michigan open in the flat to give Big Blue a 22-21 advantage.

After the sides traded punts, the Magicians began their allor-nothing drive from their own 8-yard line with 1:58 on the

clock.

After making a pair of third down conversions, Gallup would make the play of the day, picking up his own fumble and completing a pass for a big gain to set Marblehead up with strong field position. Not to be outdone, Brown would come up huge, catching a pass with a defender draped over him, drawing a flag and setting the Magicians up on the two-yard

line.

James Machado, entering at the running back position in relief of the injured Callagan, would plunge into the end zone to recover the lead with 32 seconds left. Although backed up by penalty, Gallup would find Timmy Wales on a goal line fade to complete the two-point try and up the lead to 29-22.

After picking up a pair of first downs to set up a Hail Mary

with two seconds remaining, Swampscott’s last ditch effort would be broken up by Coyne to finish a magical Thanksgiving win for Marblehead.

The victory was Marblehead’s 60th over Swampscott on Thanksgiving and their 13th in a row. The 117th Thanksgiving game is scheduled to be contested at Blocksidge Field in Swampscott on Thursday, November 26, 2026, at 10 a.m.

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Marblehead Current

ON ICE

MHS boys hockey heads to historic Lake Placid Olympic Center for opener

BY JOE MCCONNELL The high school fall sports season is now in the rearview mirror for the Marblehead Magicians, and the winter teams are just beginning their seasons.

The first day of practice got underway on Monday.

This brief break in the sports calendar from actual games gives local sports fans a chance to catch their breath, before setting aside four days each and week — mostly Tuesdays through Saturdays — to watch their favorite athletes participate in basketball, track, wrestling, gymnastics and hockey.

CURRENT PHOTOS / JOE MCCONNELL

Marblehead High boys hockey senior co-captains Hayden Gallo,left, and E.J. Wyman, right, will lead their teammates onto the historic Herb Brooks Arena ice in Lake Placid, New York, to begin the season against rival Winthrop on Dec. 12 and 13.

Every season is different with new challenges for the athletes.

On the boys hockey front, for example, there’s a new coach

for the players to get used to, just two years removed from capturing the program’s second state title.

Brendan Locke is taking over for Mark Marfione, who left for an administrative position at Brookline High School, where he will also be its hockey coach. Marfione will always be remembered here in Marblehead as a state championship-winning coach, but Locke has also had his share of successes locally as a middle school and an assistant varsity coach after getting his start behind the bench as a coach in Marblehead Youth Hockey.

The former Merrimack College

hockey captain and Philadelphia Flyer draft choice is now going to begin his Marblehead High School varsity head coaching career at the mecca of USA Hockey in Lake Placid, New York, where the 1980 U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team shocked the world after winning the gold medal.

After a couple of scrimmages against Lynnfield (Dec. 6, at Peabody, noon) and Amesbury (Dec. 8, at Salem State, 7 p.m.), Locke will be taking his Hockey Headers to Lake Placid to open up the Northeastern Conference HOCKEY, P. 12

CHARTER SCHOOL

Navigators secure second straight state championship

BY JOE MCCONNELL Justin Ries guided the Marblehead Community Charter Public School Navigators to the Massachusetts Charter School Athletic Organization boys soccer state championship for the second year in a row as its head coach early last month.

They completed their mission against East Boston’s Excel Academy, 4-0.

Marblehead swept the season with 11 straight wins (eight in the regular season, and three

more in the playoffs) to extend its winning streak to 24 over two seasons. Their defining moment this season was the comeback state semifinal win over South Division champion McAuliffe Charter out of Framingham.

“We were down 4-2 with 13 minutes left, but then we scored three late goals to win the game, 5-4. ” said coach Ries. “I have coached soccer for over 30 seasons in Marblehead and Swampscott, but have never seen a comeback like that. They set their mind on the state championship from the

COURTESY PHOTO

The Marblehead Community Charter Public School Navigators won their second straight Massachusetts Charter School Athletic Organization boys soccer championship last month, beating East Boston’s Excel Academy, 4-0. Team members are, from left, team manager Liam Bibbins, Jaydee Perello, Callie Belf, Kauan Duarte, Jacob Silva, Arvin Hagayegi, Charles Nothnagel, Andres Rodriguez, Ian Purdy, Noah Pleitez, Paul Chavez Mendez, Gabriel Reddin, Ellis Rogers, Neymar Cruz Cuello, Giovanni Belgrave, Quincy Bradstreet, Abigail Mallard, Abigale Re and athletic director Jordan Shane. Third row, Joseph McAdam, Logan Ries, assistant coach Kevin Perdios and head coach Justin Ries.

first day of tryouts in August, and never relented. There is nothing better than to see their determination pay off.”

The Massachusetts Charter School Athletic Organization consists of 38 schools across the

state, and on Nov. 6, Marblehead was crowned king of the local charter school boys soccer world. They scored 69 goals in 11 games, while allowing only 17.

Goalie Kauan Duarte recorded four shutouts this year, and only

gave up four postseason goals.

Paul Chavez Mendez (34), Logan Ries (14) and Gabriel Reddin (6) were the team’s leading goal scorers. Ian Purdy, Jacob Silva, Quincy Bradstreet and Ellis Rogers were the assist leaders.

ON THE RUN

Cross-country teams end with top 10 finishes

BY JOE MCCONNELL The Marblehead high girls cross-country team finished seventh after accumulating 204 points in the Division 2 AllState (5K) Meet of Champions at the Devens Willard Athletic Complex in Ayer on Nov. 15.

“The division was incredibly competitive this year, but we still rose to the occasion and ran a great race collectively,” said coach Will Herlihy. “Boston Latin Academy won the title, and looked even more dominant, then they did the previous week in the divisional (class) meet.”

Most of these runners have been training since mid-June, and so, according to Herlihy, it’s very hard to keep it going throughout the season. But the Marblehead girls still turned in an excellent race, with senior captain Marri O’Connell (19:12.58) finishing first among her teammates, ninth overall.

Close on her heels was junior breakout star Sarah Munroe (19:22.19), who ended up 13th.

Marblehead’s dynamic sophomore duo of Norah Walsh (20:58.49) and Ruby Assa (21:24.65) came in 54th and 75th, respectively. Junior Evelina Beletsky (22:08.96) was the 108th runner to cross the finish line, followed by freshman Sophia Letwin (22:17.31), checking in at 113. “Sophia ran a personal best 5K in this race, really solidifying her role as a varsity runner for the next three years,” said Herlihy.

Junior Jesslyn Roemer (23:34.39) was the final Marblehead varsity runner to

marbleheadcurrent.org

MHS VARSITY SCHEDULES Saturday, Dec. 6 8 a.m.: boys wrestling vs.

Salem at MHS gym Noon: boys hockey vs.

Lynnfield at McVannO’Keefe Rink, Peabody 1 p.m.: boys basketball vs.

Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational High at MHS gym 3 p.m.: girls hockey vs. Cambridge Rindge & Latin at Simoni Memorial Rink, Cambridge Sunday, Dec. 7 Noon: boys basketball vs. Manchester-Essex Regional High at MHS gym Monday, Dec. 8 7 p.m.: boys hockey vs.

Amesbury at Salem State Rockett Arena Tuesday, Dec. 9 4 p.m.: girls basketball vs.

Arlington Catholic at Arlington Catholic gym Wednesday, Dec. 10 5 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Manchester-Essex Regional High at Manchester-Essex Regional High gym Friday, Dec. 12 4 p.m.: boys and girls indoor track, NEC Invitational, Reggie Lewis Center, Boston 5 p.m.: boys basketball vs.

Danvers at Read Gymnasium, Salem Academy Charter School 6:30 p.m.: girls basketball vs.

Danvers at Danvers High gym 7 p.m.: boys hockey vs.

Winthrop at Lake Placid Olympic Center, New York Saturday, Dec. 13 TBA: boys basketball vs.

TBD at Read Gymnasium, Salem Academy Charter School 9 a.m.: boys wrestling vs.

Wakefield at Wakefield

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO / ABBEY DION

Marblehead High girls cross-country runners Sophia Letwin, Jesslyn Roemer, Ruby Assa, Norah Walsh, Sarah Munroe, Marri O’Connell and Evelina Beletsky, from left, get together for a photo after finishing seventh in the Division 2 All-State Meet of Champions at the Devens Willard Athletic Complex in Ayer on Nov. 15.

finish, 157th overall.

“Ultimately, it was a great final to an incredible season,” said Herlihy. “There were high expectations coming in, but that was (dampened) with a

group that didn’t have a ton of experience. But these girls still ran through the NEC with a perfect 7-0 record. They then went on to win the NEC Championship Meet, before

delivering a master-class of situational racing at the State Divisional (Class) Meet to finish second. I couldn’t have ever imagined a better season. I’m so proud of this

State Rockett Arena Tuesday, Dec. 16 7 p.m.: girls basketball vs.

Beverly at MHS gym 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs.

Beverly at Beverly High gym 7:30 p.m.: co-ed swimming vs. Peabody at Peabody YMCA

Want to know more about Marblehead Rotary?

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

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

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

We urge you to contact our partners listed below, or speak to your local clergy to request assistance from Marblehead Female Humane Society: Marblehead Counseling Center 781-631-8273 Marblehead Housing Authority 781-631-2580

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FRIDAY – SUNDAY

Boys finish eighth in the state

Marblehead High boys cross-country runners Isaac Durand, Henrik Adams, Thomas Svencer, Will Cruikshank, Filip Grubor, Colin Hart and Zach Pike, from left, get together for a photo after finishing eighth in the Division 2 All-State Meet of Champions at the Devens Willard Athletic Complex in Ayer on Nov. 15.

High field house 1 p.m.: boys hockey vs.

Winthrop at Lake Placid Olympic Center, New York 7 p.m.: girls hockey vs.

Auburn High at Hogan Ice Rink, Auburn Sunday, Dec. 14 10:30 a.m.: girls hockey vs. Leominster at Salem

Marblehead Harbor

group for everything they’ve accomplished.”

The Marblehead High boys team capped off its season with an eighth-place finish in the Division 2 All-State (5K) Meet of Champions at the Devens Willard Athletic Complex on Nov. 15.

“While the season did not start off the way that we wanted it to, the boys certainly rebounded nicely to put together a terrific second half,” said coach Brian Heenan. “We were able to finish it off with our best team races these last two weeks.”

The Magicians were once again led by senior captains Henrik Adams (31st, 16:58) and Will Cruikshank (35th, 17:05). Junior Filip Grubor (65th, 17:26), senior Colin Hart (104th, 17:55), senior captain Zach Pike (109th, 18:00), freshman Isaac Durand (134th, 18:39) and senior Thomas Svencer (162nd, 19:26) had some of their best performances of the season to help the team secure a Top 10 finish.

“I have been fortunate to witness some terrific team performances at this meet throughout my coaching tenure here in Marblehead, but this one will definitely stand out,” said Heenan. “The boys surprised many of the other Division 2 teams (throughout the state) with their eighth-place finish.

Despite the early season results (4-3 regular season record), the boys recognized that it’s a long season, and you want to run your best in November. They certainly did just that.”

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 11

20% OFF

*

All gifts All specialty foods Wines by the case

SUNDAY 12p - 3p** REINDEER RIDES! Reindeers provided by Hunters Haven Farm Rides will be given in our parking lot *Sale excludes prepared foods, sandwiches, deli, baked goods, items already on sale, gift cards and gift baskets. **Reindeer rides are weather permitting.

Saturday Dec.13 at Abbot Hall 7pm Champagne Reception 8pm Concert

To purchase Tickets: Floor $85, Balcony $45* Scan QR code or vist www.RotaryClubOfMheadHarbor.org * Open Seating Balcony Tickets are also available at Arnould Gallery & Framery, 111 Washington Street, Marblehead.

Raffle tickets can be purchased for a chance to win Paul McMahan’s original artwork.

Also commemorative notecards are for sale.

•

16 Atlantic Ave. Marblehead, MA 01945 (781) 631-0149 www.shubies.com

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

ShubiesMarketplace

@Shubies

Proceeds will support scholarships and deserving non-profit organizations.

marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Marblehead Current

MARBLEHEAD COUNSELING CENTER

’Tis the season … for holiday anxiety Nine in 10 Americans say they’re stressed out about the holidays

BY PAMELA WHEATON SHORR The holiday season has arrived, and with it comes a little extra bonus package: holiday anxiety.

“Holiday anxiety is a very specific type of stress,” according to Marie Ouellette, LICSW, chief clinical officer at Marblehead Counseling Center, who notes that the very holiday traditions and celebrations meant to bring us joy can also lead to enormous pressure.

“The figures are staggering, with nearly 90% of adults saying they feel stress during the holiday season.”

While the holidays are a time of joy to many, Ouellette notes, it’s important to aware that they can also cause emotional overload, physical symptoms, substance abuse issues and social stress. “The season can exacerbate our feelings of isolation or loneliness, and of not living up to our own or others’ expectations. Even the simple fact that our routines are disrupted can be difficult.”

Money, money, money

According to a 2023 American Psychological Association survey, the most common form of holiday anxiety centers on money, either spending too much or not having enough to spend. Things aren’t letting up, either — the APA, which has surveyed Americans for the past four years about holiday stress, found that one-quarter of Americans say they’re more stressed this year than last. The barrage of holiday advertising showing mounds of food, presents under trees and happy, laughing families doesn’t help — gift giving, missing loved ones, having too much to do and feeling too much pressure to make the holidays extraordinary also make the ‘high anxiety’ list.

Holiday travel is always a stressor, and this year, fallout from the government shutdown

Hockey From P. 10

season against Winthrop.

They will be playing two games against the Vikings there on Dec. 12 (7 p.m.) and Dec. 13 (1 p.m.).

“I’m excited for our student-athletes and the Marblehead boys ice hockey program,” Locke said. “Competing at the Herb Brooks Arena

and ongoing flight cancellations is causing strain for many planning to take to the skies to see family and friends. Last year, TSA reported that the Sunday after Thanksgiving saw a recordbreaking 3.09 million passengers screened. The shutdown caused the cancellation of thousands of flights and affected millions of travelers, with airline executives and the Federal Aviation Administration warning that it will take time to reconfigure planes, crews and schedules.

Vulnerable populations

Vulnerable populations, particularly those already struggling with mental health issues, are at increased risk for holiday stress and depression.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 64% of individuals living with a mental illness report their conditions worsen around the holidays.

Some groups experience added holiday strain due to other factors. For young members of the LGBQT+ community, for instance, holidays can be extremely stressful, often including a lack of acceptance by family members, religious tensions, a sense of not belonging and having to cope with either being ‘out’ — or not.

More than two million Americans 65 and older suffer from depression, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, often identified as late-life depression. But elder care workers say many seniors without diagnosed depression find the holidays difficult due to their changing life circumstances: loss of loved ones, changes in finances and living situations and a decline in overall health. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the holidays can also be a real struggle for vets, heightening symptoms of traumatic stress disorder stress disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, placing a focus on painful dates

is going to be special, knowing that we are skating on the same ice as the 1980 Olympic gold medal-winning team. It is an incredible opportunity for our team to experience playing in a venue with that kind of history, and if you love hockey, it has to put a smile on your face.

To kick off my tenure as the team’s head coach in Lake Placid is an honor, and it highlights the pride

NOTICE OF ACTIVITY AND USE LIMITATION 12 ATLANTIC AVENUE MARBLEHEAD, MA 01945 RELEASE TRACKING NUMBER 3-36606 A release of oil and/or hazardous materials has occurred at this location, which is a disposal site as defined by M.G.L. c. 21E, § 2 and the Massachusetts Contingency Plan, 310 CMR 40.0000. On November 26, 2025, 12 ATLANTIC HOLDING COMPANY, LLC recorded with the Essex South District Registry of Deeds a NOTICE OF ACTIVITY AND USE LIMITATION on the disposal site for Release Tracking Number (RTN) 3-36606, pursuant to 310 CMR 40.1070 through 40.1080.

The NOTICE OF ACTIVITY AND USE LIMITATION will limit the following site activities and uses on the above property: (i) Future use of the Property for single-family or multi-family residences, school, daycare, playground uses, or active or passive recreation; (ii) Future use of the soil at the Property for the cultivation of fruit or vegetables destined for human consumption, unless cultivated in clean soil in raised bed planters; and (iii) Temporary subsurface activities and/or construction at the Property which may result in direct contact with, disturbance of, or relocation of soil at the Property (except for emergency work as described in Paragraph 1 of the Activity and Use Limitation), including but not limited to, excavation associated with future construction and maintenance of buildings, installation of new utilities, and other improvements to support permitted uses, not conducted in accordance with the applicable Obligations and Conditions set forth in Paragraph 3 of the Activity and Use Limitation, or without a Licensed Site Professional Opinion rendered which states that such activities are consistent with maintaining a condition of No Significant Risk as provided in 310 CMR 40.0000.

Any person interested in obtaining additional information about the NOTICE OF ACTIVITY AND USE LIMITATION may contact MR. FRANK CALANDRA, PE, LSP, THE VERTEX COMPANIES, LLC, 100 NORTH WASHINGTON STREET, SUITE 302, BOSTON, MA 02114, 617-275-5407, Licensed Site Professional for 12 Atlantic Holding Company, LLC c/o Marblehead Smiley Face LLC. The NOTICE OF ACTIVITY AND USE LIMITATION and the disposal site file can be viewed at the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) website using RTN 3-36606 at https://eeaonline. eea.state.ma.us/portal/dep/wastesite/ or at the MassDEP NORTHEAST REGIONAL OFFICE, 150 PRESIDENTIAL WAY, WOBURN, MA 01801, 978-694-3200.

COURTESY PHOTO / ANASTASIA SHURAEVA

The most common form of holiday anxiety centers around money.

or anniversaries, and inducing survivor’s guilt.

And then there’s the simple fact that a growing number of Americans find it difficult to stay connected in an increasingly fragmented world. In a 2025 APA survey, half or more of U.S. adults report these signs of loneliness: feelings of isolation or lack of companionship and of being left out, all of which can play a significant part in our experience of holiday anxiety.

Coping strategies

There are things that can help make it better, according to Ouellette, but much of it is about adjusting our attitudes and taking a healthier approach to holiday expectations.

“Identify your stressors and try to let go of old traditions that don’t work anymore, or, for whatever reasons, don’t work this particular year. People change, economic circumstances change, families change. Why can’t our holiday traditions change, too?” It’s ok to ask for help, from friends and family, as well as professionals. Ouellette says Marblehead Counseling Center is just one local resource for counseling, and it has open daytime slots for those feeling anxiety and depression this season. It’s ok, too, Ouellette says, to just say no to what we’ve ‘always’ done, to what is causing

and responsibility that come with playing and coaching for Marblehead High School.”

It’s really not a coincidence that Marblehead is teaming up with Winthrop. Back in 2010, the Headers accepted the Vikings’ invitation to play at Fenway Park as a part of the National Hockey League’s Winter Classic that year.

“Winthrop High School has always been a great partner, and we are grateful for the experiences that they have provided our program over the years,” said Locke.

“Competing against a school and community as storied as Winthrop creates a healthy rivalry.

It also (provides) great competition between both schools, not to mention the many memorable moments that the players

the stress.

“We have these images in our heads — put there by movies and TV shows and advertisers — that tell us what a holiday ‘should’ be. You really can have a fabulous Thanksgiving eating a pizza, sharing it with the people you care about. The best way to feel less stressed is to cut ourselves some slack.”

Resources

» Marblehead Counseling

Center https://www. marbleheadcounseling.org/ » Anxiety tips by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America https://adaa. org/learn-from-us/from-theexperts/blog-posts/consumer/ find-your-holiday-happiness » Mass Behavioral Health Hotline https://www. masshelpline.com/ In English, Spanish, French, Chinese, Arabic, German, Italian If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

10 stress-busting tips » Identify your specific

holiday worries and concerns and make a plan beforehand for what to do if things go awry. » Take the pressure off

yourself. The perfect is the enemy of the good— do what you can and if you can’t, let it go or assign the task to someone else. » Smile, make eye contact and engage. If you’re stressed talking about yourself, ask questions. Avoid touchy subjects, like politics or religion. » Don’t look for relief in alcohol or drugs. They often trigger more anxiety and panic attacks. » Eat well. The central nervous system releases adrenaline and cortisol when confronted with a stressor, which affects the digestive tract. Acute stress can kill the appetite — but the release of cortisol can also cause fat and sugar cravings. » Practice self-care.Take a walk, read a book, do some yoga. Exercise is a great stress reliever. Ask someone to join you. Being active together can be a great way to reconnect. » Plan and confirm all details ahead of time, especially regarding travel. Allow ample time at airports, choose travel times when crowds are smaller. AAA suggests downloading your airline’s mobile app in case your flight is cancelled. » Prepare for what you will do if you are overwhelmed or your emotions get derailed.

Download a meditation tape, book, movie, podcast or music to help you de-stress in the event of a delay or a rocky situation. Pack a few light snacks or gum — chewing helps alleviate stress. » Help someone out.

According to APA, helping others reduces everyday stress. » Get your rest. Sleep allows your mind, body — and emotions — to re-set.

Pamela Wheaton Shorr volunteers with the Marblehead Counseling Center.

CURRENT PHOTO / JOE MCCONNELL

Marblehead High boys hockey senior co-captain E.J. Wyman (9) was in the middle of a play trying to check a Blackstone Valley player off the puck during a Round of 32 Division 2 state tournament game at Salem State’s Rockett Arena last February. The Headers went on to win that game, 3-2. But now, Wyman and his classmate and fellow captain Hayden Gallo will be leading their teammates onto the historic Herb Brooks Arena ice in Lake Placid, New York, to begin the season against rival Winthrop on Dec. 12 and 13.

will get from it.”

These games are fully approved by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association and will count in the standings. MIAAapproved referees will

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE

Docket No. ES20P2537EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Probate and Family Court Estate of: Patricia Carol Cerrutti Also Known As: Patricia C. Cerrutti aka Patricia Cerrutti Essex Division Date of Death: March 4, 2020 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate, by Petition of Charles P. Cerrutti of Marblehead, MA a Will has been admitted to informal probate.

Charles P. Cerrutti of Marblehead, MA Jeremiah F. of Swampscott, MA has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve with without surety on the bond.

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

A copy of the Petition and Will, if any, can be obtained from the Petitioner.

also be employed for both games.

Dale Dunbar, longtime Winthrop coach, worked with Mike Eruzione, the captain of that 1980 squad, to set up this once-ina-lifetime experience.

Both Dale and Mike are Winthrop natives, so they fully understand the history of high school hockey in their community.

“Mike has already organized a special presentation and tour of the Herb Brooks Arena for our team,” said Locke.

“MHS Athletic Director, Kent Wheeler has been behind this trip from the beginning after the School Committee approved it.”

All costs will be shared

equally by each program, and donations for the trip are being raised through generous community support and fundraising efforts in both towns.

Some of Marblehead’s fundraising efforts included a car wash in September, and a joint effort with the girls high school team in partnership with Marblehead Youth Hockey during the annual Saint Lambert’s Exchange Weekend last month.

Friends of Marblehead Hockey is also helping out by allowing the community to donate directly to the boys high school team via National Grand Bank, which is still going on if you still want to help out the cause.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 13

OBITUARY

Kenneth Stuart MacAskill, 90 Kenneth Stuart MacAskill, age 90, of Marblehead passed away peacefully on Monday Nov. 24. He was predeceased by his wife Dorothy Spellman MacAskill in 2015 after sharing 58 great years of marriage.

Born on Jan. 29, 1935 at Franklin Street Mary Alley Hospital, he was the son of the late Kenneth Bodwell MacAskill and Rebecca Blaney MacAskill. He was raised in Marblehead and graduated from Marblehead High School with the class of 1953. He also graduated from the Bentley School of Accounting and finance in 1955.

He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1955 to 1957 after which he was employed as a cost accountant for United Shoe in Beverly.

In 1959, he moved to East Rockaway, New York, where he was the controller of TPT Communications in Queens, New

York, and served as the president of the East Rockaway Kiwanis Club in 1968 before returning to New England in 1970.

He then was self-employed in sales for over 28 years until his retirement in 1998.

Ken enjoyed summers and winters in Shapleigh, Maine, on Square Pond for over 30 years. He served as president

and treasurer of the Mousam Valley Snowmobile Club and the Square Pond Improvement Association there.

He also served as the treasurer for the Marblehead Citizens for Fiscal Responsibility.

Ken was also a 32nd degree Mason of the Philanthropic Lodge in Marblehead, Scottish Rite, Valley of Salem, Scottish Rite Valley of Boston Consistory. He was also a member of the Gerry 5 in Marblehead and the Elks Lodge in Gloucester.

Ken enjoyed trips to Aruba, Myrtle Beach, Florida, Alaska, Las Vegas and occasional trips to Foxwoods with his wife, playing pool at the Gerry, cribbage at the Senior Center and poker anytime.

He enjoyed Marblehead High School hockey and football games from 1971 until his passing. He was so happy he lived long enough to see the Marblehead football team win a state championship in 2021 and Marblehead hockey win two championships in 2011 and 2024.

Ken was the devoted and loving father

of Kenneth “Scott” MacAskill and his wife Cindee of Alameda, California, and Susan MacAskill Thompson and her husband, Paul of Queen Creek, Arizona; the dear brother of Jean MacAskill of Marblehead; and the cherished grandfather of Madelyn and Caitlyn MacAskill of Alameda. He is also survived by his companion Susan Gray of Marblehead and many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, Dec. 4, 5-8 p.m., at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. Ken’s funeral service will be held on Friday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. at Eustis & Cornell. Burial will follow at Waterside Cemetery. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ken’s name may be made to Marblehead High School Athletics, the Gerry 5 Veteran Fireman’s Association or the Philanthropic Lodge of Marblehead. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com for Ken’s family.

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS Buyer(s) John and Daniela Wood M S Nettles Buildwise Partners LLC

Seller(s)

Address

Date

Price

Haims FT and Hinda F. Haims

27 Preston Beach Road

Nov. 10

$1,015,000

26 Sparhawk LLC

27 Sparhawk Terrace

Nov. 12

$3,675,000

Elizabeth A. Petersen

222 West Shore Drive

Nov. 12

$645,000

POLICE LOG

Hot chicken trip leads to sibling spat Friday, Nov. 21

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 2 9:42 a.m. An officer met at the station with a woman who had found an unused condom on her bedroom floor the night before.

The woman said that she lives alone and that she does not use condoms, so she was concerned that somebody had snuck into her home. The woman said that she had left a kitchen window open before heading to work early that morning. She said that there were no signs of forced entry, and all the doors were locked. The woman said that nothing appeared to be missing, and nothing had been moved around. The officer inquired as to whether there were any cameras that might have been facing the kitchen window, and the woman said that there were not. The officer suggested that, in addition to closing all windows and doors before leaving, she could consider installing cameras. She was advised to contact police if she noticed any sign of forced entry into her home again.

1:53 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Lincoln Park to investigate a report of suspected vandalism. He was met by a resident who showed the officer some minor damage to his backyard fence, which he thought might have stemmed from a verbal altercation with his neighbors, though he was unsure what caused the damage.

Another theory was that the neighbors’ children, who had been playing outside, might have caused it. The officer observed a small piece of the top of the fence broken off, which was laying on the resident’s patio table. The resident said he did not want to escalate the situation and just wanted the incident documented.

5:15 p.m. Officers could not locate a vehicle about which a complaint had been made on Atlantic and Clifton avenues.

5:27 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Green Street and Green Street Court.

8:18 p.m. Officers investigated a complaint about a moving vehicle on Lafayette and Maple streets.

8:56 p.m. Officers helped deescalate a dispute between two teenage brothers on Rockaway Avenue. The younger brother, 16, explained that he had gone out with friends to

Dave’s Hot Chicken then had lost his phone somewhere in town. He said that he did not want to get in the car with his older brother, who was upset at him. The older brother explained that his sibling did not have permission to be out, nor had he told anyone he was going out, which worried his mother. The older brother expressed doubt that his younger brother had lost his phone, instead believing he had just been rejecting the family’s calls. The younger brother eventually agreed to get in the car and not yell at his brother once they drove away.

6:19 a.m. A caller reported having lost a pink purse containing an ID and some credit cards on Front Street.

3:10 p.m. Officers investigated the report of suspicious activity on Highland Terrace.

3:52 p.m. An officer went out to look for a disabled vehicle reported on Ocean and Atlantic avenues but did not find one.

4:22 p.m. An officer took a report of a general complaint on Broughton Road.

10:17 p.m. A person was transported to the hospital after assistance was requested on Highland Terrace.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Monday, Nov. 24

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 7:43 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Devereux Street and filed a report.

11:13 a.m. An officer went to the Boston Yacht Club to speak to the parking lot attendant about an altercation he had with a driver who had started to drive the wrong way up Water Street. When the attendant called that to the driver’s attention, the driver got out of his car and began walking towards the attendant, asking in a confrontational manner, “What are you going to do about it?” The attendant explained he was only trying to help the man avoid an accident. The man then got back into his car and left. The attendant provided the officer with the make, model and license plate of the man’s vehicle and was satisfied with just having the incident documented.

12:38 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Gerald Road.

12:43 p.m. Larceny, forgery or fraud was reported on Front Street.

3:37 p.m. An officer investigated a disturbance on Broughton Road and filed a report. Two officers would return to Broughton Road at 4:52 p.m. for another disturbance.

6:17 p.m. Officers investigated the report of a vehicle crash on Brookhouse Drive and Elmwood Road that proved to be unfounded.

6:31 p.m. An officer investigated a complaint involving a moving vehicle on Commercial Street.

Sunday, Nov. 23

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 3 9:52 a.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Washington Street.

12:17 p.m. Assistance was provided on Peach Highlands.

1:55 p.m. Assistance was provided on Stacey Street.

1:55 p.m. Assistance was provided on Village Street.

5:20 p.m. Officers rendered services after a general complaint on School and Pleasant streets.

6:42 p.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Bonad Road.

8:13 p.m. An officer assisted with a disabled vehicle on Pleasant Street.

9:12 p.m. Officers responded to a general complaint on Elm Street and filed a report.

9:41 p.m. An officer investigated suspicious activity reported on Robert Road.

10 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Longview Drive.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 8:37 a.m. A vehicle was towed on West Shore Drive.

10:51 a.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Litchman Terrace and Green Street.

11:22 a.m. A complaint was made about a moving vehicle on Pond and Green streets.

11:23 a.m. Larceny, forgery or fraud was reported on Powder House Court.

12:21 p.m. A disabled vehicle was reported on Barnard Street and Atlantic Avenue.

12:32 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Green Street.

12:48 p.m. An officer assisted a person on Lafayette and Birch

streets.

1:38 p.m. Assistance was provided on Community Road.

2:04 p.m. Annoying phone calls were reported on Maverick Street.

3:10 p.m. An officer assisted at the scene of a vehicle crash on West Shore Drive.

5:04 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Atlantic Avenue.

6:15 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Alexander Circle.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

» Vehicle stops, citations: 1 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 7:19 a.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Bowden Street.

10:23 a.m. An officer spoke with a woman and her daughter who had recently moved into the former home of Board of Health member Tom McMahon on Gregory Street.

While walking her dog earlier in the morning, she had noticed that someone had thrown an egg at her home. She believed that McMahon, rather than her family, had been the intended target. She explained why she felt that way. She said that she did not have any cameras on her property and explained that she just wanted the incident logged in case there were other incidents.

The officer planned to share the information with detectives.

12:04 p.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Maple Street.

12:36 p.m. Officers provided assistance on Elm Street.

2:19 p.m. Solicitors were reported on Bowden Street.

7:43 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Devereux Street and filed a report.

Thursday, Nov. 27

» Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 1 5:32 a.m. A barking dog was reported on Ruby Avenue.

8:58 a.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Lafayette Street.

12:24 p.m. An abandoned 911 call from Tedesco Street was referred to another agency.

8:15 p.m. An officer investigated an abandoned 911 call from Pleasant Street.

Friday, Nov. 28

» Vehicle stops, citations: 2 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 6 12:16 a.m. A complaint about a moving vehicle on Intrepid Circle proved to be unfounded.

9:09 a.m. An officer

investigated a report of found or lost property on Evans Road and filed a report.

11:19 a.m. An officer went to Fairview Road to speak to a property owner who had seen an unknown woman enter the basement apartment from which he was in the process of evicting his current tenant. The landlord presumed the tenant must have given the woman a key. The officer advised the man that because the eviction was not yet final, the man was allowed to give his key to friends. The man said he understood that it was a civil matter.

12:06 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Vine Street to speak to a couple about a scam text the woman had received and responded to. The text indicated that it was from “Apple” and that a purchase for $149.99 had been made on her account. It provided a number to call to decline the transaction. The woman called the number, and the person who answered the phone, who spoke with a foreign accent, began to explain that there was a fraud on her account for pornographic activity and online betting. The woman on the other end of the line instructed her not to do any online shopping, social media or online banking, and not to tell anyone about their conversation.

At this point, the resident became suspicious, hung up the phone and called 911. She was advised to check with her bank to ensure no suspicious transactions had occurred.

12:22 p.m. A 58-year-old Marblehead woman was arrested on Washington Street and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and having an open container of alcohol in her vehicle.

7:20 p.m. Officers responded to The Barrelman on Washington Street to investigate a report that someone had kicked in a door. Upon their arrival, the officers noticed that the double wooden doors at the main entrance were ajar.

The officer said it appeared that someone had pulled on the handle, which released the bolt from the other door. The officers checked the pub and found all to be in order inside. They were able to secure the doors, but due to their aged condition, it appeared someone would be able to pull them open again. The officers apprised the building’s owner of their findings. He said he would instruct his friend as to how to secure the building.

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14 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Marblehead Current

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 3, 2025 15

CURRENT EVENTS

Marblehead’s best bets

BY SAOIRSE STALLINGS

You know all about the Christmas Walk festivities (pages 4-5). Here are other upcoming events in town.

To submit a listing, email info@marbleheadnews.org.

Knitters Boutique Sale & Holiday Open House

Headlight

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community

Now through Dec. 5, 9 a.m.–noon

2025 - 2026 Issue

The knitters group at the Marblehead Council on Aging is selling handmade hats, scarves, shawls, baby blankets and more at the Community Center, 10 Humphrey St. Proceeds benefit the Friends of the Marblehead COA.

www.mhsheadlight.com

Seniors reflect on Powderpuff win, celebrate annual Senior Brunch

Saturday, Dec. 6, 8 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 7, at 7:30 p.m.

The community is welcome to attend the 45th annual Old North Festival Chorus Christmas Concerts at 35 Washington St. The 90-person

An Evening of Piano and Chamber Music Friday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m.

The community is invited to settle in for an evening of expressive piano and chamber music. The program brings together accomplished musicians who will perform works by Beethoven, Liszt, Rachmaninoff and other celebrated composers. The concert will be held in the event space/parish hall at St. Andrew’s Church, 135 Lafayette St. The concert is free to the public and donations will be gratefully accepted.

chorus and full orchestra will perform the following: Joseph Haydn’s “Missa in tempore belli,” John Rutter’s “When Icicles Hang;” and works by Dan Forrest, Mark Hayes, as well as other seasonal favorites.

Soloists and guest artists include: Holly Cameron, soprano; Anne Burgett, soprano; Rebecca Kenneally, mezzo-soprano; Kevin

Hayden, tenor; David Thomas Mather, baritone; and Caleb Mayo, narrator.

Tickets for Festival Chorus performances are $35 and may be purchased in advance at Arnould Gallery, Maria’s Gourmet and Crosby’s Marketplace. Tickets are also available at onchurch.org/ festivalchorus.

The ’80s Comedy Boom: A Boston Comedy History

Our Lady Star of the Sea Christmas Fair

Wednesday, Dec. 10, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Come to Abbot Library, 235 Pleasant St., for the program “The 80’s Comedy Boom.” Dan Zaino will talk about how Boston became a hotspot through the birth of The Comedy Connection and the Ding Ho, launching Steven Wright, Paula Poundstone, Denis Leary, Marc Maron, David Cross, Janeane Garofalo, Jimmy Tingle, Lenny Clarke, Bobcat Goldthwait and more.

This presentation will include clips of their comedy along with audio from some of Zaino’s own interviews through more than 26 years covering this scene for The Boston Globe, The Boston Phoenix and other publications. This is a free event but registration is required, visit abbotlibrary.og for more info and to sign up.

Get Cookin’ With Julia Child

Christmas Chorale

Thursday, Dec. 11, 1-2:30 p.m.

Meet Julia Child, the beloved French chef, in a live performance featuring an actress from Delvena Theatre Company at Abbot Library.

Learn more about Child’s life, from her privileged early years in California when she had no interest in food (except for eating what the family’s private chef prepared) to becoming one of the culinary legends of all time. After the performance, the cast will be available for Q&A. Register at abbotlibrary.org/events.

A free-will offering will be gratefully received. 85 Atlantic Ave.

The annual Our Lady Star of the Sea Christmas fair returns with a live nativity, shopping, raffles and food at 85 Atlantic Ave. The event features local vendors selling handcrafted items and gifts.

Raffle prizes include gift certificates to popular local restaurants, hotels, sports events and themed gift baskets. Highlights include tickets to the Celtics, Bruins and Patriots, and gift cards to Shubie’s, The Landing, The Beacon and Mission on the Bay.

Sunday, Dec. 14, 3 p.m.

Community Menorah Lighting Thursday, Dec. 18, 5 p.m.

Celebrate Hanukkah at this community menorah lighting outside National Grand Bank, 91 Pleasant St. There will be songs, inspiring words and a Hanukkah treat.

The Star of the Sea Concert Series invites you to an afternoon of sacred and seasonal music, presented as a free gift to the parish and the community of Marblehead. This year’s program includes Josef Rheinberger, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. The performance features the Star of the Sea Choir and 40-piece symphony orchestra, with soloists Holly Cameron and James Demler. Admission is free, and all are welcome.

On Sunday morning at 9 a.m., after a hard fought Powderpuff game, the senior class trudged into the Marblehead High School cafeteria to feast on pancakes, fruit, pastries, and eggs at the annual Senior Brunch.

The brunch came the morning after the Marblehead High School’s Powderpuff team of senior girls defeated Swampscott in a close 3-0 game on the Big Blue turf. The team was led by senior coaches Cole Barbeau, Abdullah Al Janabi, Cam Gibson, Grady Becker, Drew Dephillips, and JJ Downey. They spent the last month practicing six days a week, two hours a day, often working late into the evenings, while also maintaining academic excellence, participating in extracurriculars, and playing fall sports.

“It was intense, but it was worth it,” said MHS senior and Powderpuff player Addison Rotigliano.“It felt really rewarding because we have been preparing for weeks, practicing every day, and our coaches did a great job preparing us, so it made it really worth it to win.”

The game remained scoreless well into the fourth quarter as each team put on a defensive masterclass. But a 14 yard field goal from Courtney Hitscherich put Marblehead up 3-0 with just seconds left on the clock, and Marblehead was able to hang onto the lead to win the game.

After celebrating on the field to cheers from the flag waving spectators on the Marblehead sideline, they boarded buses and took the five minute ride back home.

“The girls worked so hard the past four weeks, from not even knowing what a first down was on day 1 to playing an entire football game on Saturday," said offensive coach Cole Barbeau. “I’m really proud of all of them, and it’s such an elating feeling as a coach to see all their hard work pay off and result in a win.”

The celebratory mood continued the next morning at the annual Senior Brunch at the Marblehead High School cafeteria, where most of the seniors came to talk, unwind from the stress of all of their tedious college admissions work, and eat some tasty breakfast food. The class officers, led by class President Will Cruikshank, worked with the administration, parents, and the class to organize the brunch. Students signed up to bring food to the pot-luck style event, which was a big success.

“Having a nice meal together was really cool,” said class President Will Cruikshank. “We’ve had a million meals in there as a class, but being in there on a Sunday morning and being able to celebrate as a class after the Powderpuff win was really awesome.” Cruikshank estimated that about two thirds of the 185 student class came out to brunch, which came just before the beginning of the high school’s Thanksgiving break.

“It’s ahead of Thanksgiving, so it’s a nice on-theme moment,” said Cruikshank. .

Powderpuff

Stranger Things finale season: What it’s all about Sophie Li, Mary Prindiville, and London Perlow

Greyson Collins, Editor-in-Chief

Old North Church Festival Chorus Concerts

Stranger Things is a hit sci-fi horror Netflix series set in the 1980s. This show gained popularity because it appeals to both younger and older audiences. Based on classics like The Goonies and It, Stranger Things quickly became a worldwide phenomenon. The show was released in 2016 by the Duffer Brothers, and now, the final season is premiering. Stranger Things takes place in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. Mike, Will, Dustin, and Lucas are the four main characters and are best friends. After their game of D&D, the boys ride home on bikes from Mike’s house, but Will never makes it home. In the morning, his mother, Joyce, freaks out because he is missing, so Will’s brooding teenage brother, Jonathan, teams up with Mike’s older sister, Nancy, to locate his brother, with the help of Steve, Nancy’s boyfriend. The young boys also try to find their friend, but instead encounter a girl with superpowers named Eleven, who can help find Will. Everyone is trying to uncover the mystery of what really happened to William Byers. As seasons pass, the plot evolves from monsters to shadows, and to Russian spies, while our heroes try to stop the Upside Down (an evil alternate dimension) from seeping into their ‘normal’ town of Hawkins, leading to the fifth and final season, where you finally discover how the Upside Down is connected to Hawkins and how it can be stopped before the Upside Down destroys our world.

Viewers of Stranger Things will not have to wait much longer for its Final Season, as it will arrive in three separate parts throughout the holiday season, making it the perfect line-up for cozy watch parties.

Volume 1 arrives on November 26, 2025, with the first four episodes, just in time for Thanksgiving break. Volume 2 is scheduled to follow on December 25, 2025, with three additional episodes for viewers to enjoy this holiday season. The season’s long-awaited Finale premieres on December 31, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET, giving fans one final trip into the Upside Down as the year wraps up. All episodes will stream on Netflix, and there is even a chance that the Finale will receive a special screening at Warwick Place, giving our community a unique opportunity to experience it on the big screen.

Fans have come up with numerous theories for Season 5 of Stranger Things. Many theories suggest that the Mindflayer (the main villain from Season 2) could be controlling Vecna (the main villain from Season 4), while others think the Mindflayer could betray Vecna and Vecna’s plans for Season 5. The debates between the ships Byler and Mileven have remained heated right up until the release of Season 5, especially on social media platforms like Tumblr, Tiktok, and Instagram.

These ships are notably popular among teenage fans of the show. Additionally, multiple trailers have been released, all leading to speculation around how the character Will Byers is connected to the villain Vecna.

The first five minutes of the show have also been released, and it shows a disturbing scene between Will and Vecna indicating Will Byers will play a crucial role in the new season.

FOOD 101

Senior Brunch

The joy (?) of Brussels sprouts

BY LINDA BASSETT If one vegetable could be voted “most likely to be disliked” by the largest number of people, I would guess Brussels sprouts.

Broccoli follows at a close second.

But wait!

Give the scorned tiny cabbagelookalikes another chance. They need coddling — and not like an egg because then you’ll get sulfurous payback. When treated gently, they react positively.

Let’s start with their backstory. In season right now, Brussels sprouts stay around through March, although presently at their best. Buy them from a grocer who does not wrap them in plastic. Look for net bags or loose “sprouts” in a bin.

They need to breathe.

When home, refrigerate them, unwashed and uncovered, in a non-metal bowl. No longer than three days: aging Brussels sprouts go downhill fast.

To prepare, rinse well in a colander under cold running water. Then cut a thin slice from the stem. Peel and discard a

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layer or two of outer leaves. Cut an X into the stem so they cook evenly through. (Some cooks cut them in half vertically.)

To cook, bypass the tried and truly horrible techniques — boiled and doused with butter; braised in stock; steamed and spritzed with lemon juice.

Overlook trendy methods, too, like roasting at high temperatures under squirts of expensive vinegar. These methods just serve to enhance the vegetable’s nasty reputation.

Instead, coddle them with cream, bacon, breadcrumbs, butter and cheeses. (Classical French chefs know that these ingredients improve most anything.) Just layer on the voluptuous flavors. Yes, the calories add up, but I’m not suggesting this appear frequently on your table. Save it for the holidays.

I try out one new recipe every holiday season. My holiday brussels sprouts gratin stayed permanently on the menu. A brined roasted capon has not been seen a second time. The kids like it well enough that they prepare it for potlucks with friends. In a recent phone call, my daughter told me her secret: she doubles all the truly shocking elements — bacon,

Deember 3, 2025

` Pinch nutmeg ` Salt and pepper, to taste ` ¼ cup grated Parmesan or Swiss cheese, or a combination ` ¼ cup fresh breadcrumbs ` More melted butter to drizzle over the crumbs

CURRENT PHOTOS / LINDA BASSETT

How Brussels sprouts can be your next great holiday food tradition.

butter, cheese, etc!

GRATIN OF BRUSSELS SPROUTS MAKES 6 SERVINGS.

The best part of this dish is that it’s better the next day, a great candidate for saving work on the actual holiday.

` 1-¼ pounds brussels sprouts ` 1 tablespoon lemon juice ` ¾ pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces ` 8 ounces cream cheese ` 1 stick unsalted butter ` 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard ` ½ cup all-purpose cream

1. Cut a thin slice from the stem; remove outer leaves. Rinse under cold running water.

2. Preheat the oven to 400F. Fry bacon until nearly crisp; drain on paper towels.

3. Melt butter with cream cheese over low heat. Stir in mustard and cream.

4. Butter a baking dish deep enough to fit all ingredients in a single layer.

5. In a large bowl, toss together the brussels sprouts, cream cheese mixture, and bacon until combined. Transfer to the baking dish. Add more cream so that the sprouts are nearly covered. Top with the grated cheeses and breadcrumbs.

6. Bake for 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and golden on top. Servehot.

Linda Bassett lived in Marblehead for years and has worked as a cook, trained up-andcoming chefs, studied food history and led food tours. Her book, “From Apple Pie to Pad Thai,” is about local cooks and cooking.

Headlight Staff 2025 - 2026 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Greyson Collins

ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall

Social Media: Anna Baughman

REPORTERS: Nathaniel Carper-Young, Teagan Freedman, Eve Magen, Maya Berman, Piper Browning, Sophie Li, Mary Prindville, Madeline Duffy Advisor: Mr. Higgins

marbleheadcurrent.org

16 Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Marblehead Current

GIFTS • DESIGN • FURNISHINGS

HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE Benefiting the Toys for Tots Drive of Massachusetts, Join Us in Building Brighter Holidays and Brighter Futures!

Donate new, unwrapped toys for children up to 12 years of age from December 1 - December 15 Requested donations: arts and craft kits, building blocks, dolls of all ethnicities, educational toys, sports balls, STEM kits and robots, and lastly, toy cars and trucks.

Stop in for inspired décor + gifts, custom furnishings and unique finds that elevate and impress.

Clover Carpet + Interiors 75 Washington St. Marblehead (781) 990-0180 @clovercarpetandinteriors

The donation box is located to the left of the front door, facing the street.

Drop Off Your Items From December 1 - 15 Monday – Friday | 9 AM – 5 PM 46 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead, MA 01945 781.534.9229 | compass.com Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Photos may be virtually staged or digitally enhanced and may not reflect actual property conditions

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