12.24.2025 - Volume 4, Issue 5

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YEAR IN REVIEW: THE CURRENT’S TOP NEWS STORIES OF 2025 PAGES 4-5 NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

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DECEMBER 24, 2025

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FIRST WAVE

VOLUME 4, ISSUE NO. 5

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English teacher accuses MPS of retaliation after her claims of antisemitism. Page 1

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Good news for local electric customers. Page 2

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ON SOCIAL @MHDCURRENT

on ice as chief renews to sign up 3 Athethriller 5 How 4 Police hockey Headers warnings about kids for the town’s

take on Masco. Page 9.

and e-bikes. Page 12.

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Five facts from this week’s Marblehead Current.

SCHOOLS

Local teacher alleges ‘retaliation’ after her public claims of antisemitism

BY LEIGH BLANDER A Veterans School English teacher waived her right to a private hearing before the School Committee on Thursday night and publicly accused the district of discriminating against her because she is Jewish and a Zionist. She also alleged the district retaliated against her for speaking out about what she

described as antisemitism in Marblehead schools.

Brigitte Karns has taught in Marblehead Public Schools for 24 years and has served as a lead English teacher at Veterans School for 16 years. In 2024, Karns participated in a webinar hosted by the Israeli-American Civic Action Network in which she accused the district and world language teachers at

Marblehead High School of antisemitism. She identified one teacher by initials.

The webinar was shared widely on local social media and prompted the School Committee to hold a community meeting to address the allegations.

The committee subsequently hired an outside law firm to investigate. The resulting report determined that there was not

enough evidence to find that “any party was subjected to discrimination or harassment, including antisemitism.”

One month after the webinar, Karns said she was informed by the Veterans School principal that she would be required to “split” her lead teacher position with another educator, a change that reduced her stipend by 50%. Karns estimated her annual

JUST DUCKY

Village School students help create colorful mural with visiting artist

stipend had been between $3,000 and $4,000 before the split. She said the reduction will also affect her retirement benefits.

“My performance in that position and as a teacher has been exemplary,” Karns said.

“There has been no criticism of my performance in either role.

TEACHER, P. 2

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Light, hope mark town Hanukkah celebration

BY LEIGH BLANDER More than 150 people gathered to celebrate the fifth night of Hanukkah at a menorah lighting outside National Grand Bank Dec. 18. There was singing and storytelling and even the traditional Hanukkah treat sufganiyot ( jelly donuts).

“Jewish tradition teaches us to kindle the lights of our chanukiah (menorah) by a door or window, so that we can share the miracle, so that others can see it,” said Rabbi Jenn Mangold of Temple Emanu-El at the event.

“Just as we are doing tonight, sharing our light in the public sphere even during these dark times, we are called to share our light.

HANUKKAH, P. 12

COURTESY PHOTO

As Village Schools students look on, Boston-based artist Bren Bataclan works on the mural. Bataclan has created more than 300 murals like this one around the world.

BY LEIGH BLANDER You’ve probably heard of Banksy, the anonymous street artist famous around the world for his poignant pieces.

Well, at the Village School last week, students learned from Bostonbased artist-in-residence Bren Bataclan, who travels the world giving away his paintings and working with students to create dynamic murals.

He’s painted more than 300 murals and his most recent is right here in

Marblehead. He works mostly in acrylics and has created hundreds of cartoon-like characters.

Before breaking out the paints, Bataclan spends a few hours workshopping with the kids “I talk about the power of kindness through art,” Bataclan told the Current as he was working on a 20-by10 foot mural at Village. “I show samples of my work from canvases to murals. Then I show students how to draw my characters. And then they create their own characters, which is

what I’m painting right now.”

For the Village School mural, Principal Scott Williams and the school’s art teachers Julie McCarthy and Gina Semple selected a theme tied to the school mascot — ducks — which also serves as an acronym for dynamic, unique, caring, kind and safe.

“Bren divided up all the grades and gave them specific assignments,” McCarthy explained. “For ‘unique,’ CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

MURAL, P. 3

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People gather for the third annual menorah lighting in Marblehead Dec. 18.

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2 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

NEWS IN BRIEF The Current welcomes submissions (150200 words) to its News in Brief section. Send yours to info@marbleheadnews.org.

Peirce added, “Although the ballot question committee ‘Yes for Marblehead’ was formed to campaign to pass a 3A compliant zoning plan, the Marblehead Housing Coalition will continue to advocate and organize for housing policy that invigorates our town’s future, while honoring our community and its past.”

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Goodwin extradited to Florida

Marblehead resident and founder of defunct travel company Stone & Compass arrived in Florida on Dec. 18 to face charges that he defrauded more than 100 Daytona Beach high school students and chaperones out of about $400,000. Goodwin is being held on a $4 million bond.

Commercial trash weighand-pay update The town has announced that the commercial trash weigh-and-pay service will remain closed through Jan. 1. The residential entrance on Green Street will remain open for residential kitchen trash, recycling and yard waste for people with facility stickers.

‘Yes for Marblehead’ donates to housing trust As the year was coming to a close, the ballot question committee “Yes for Marblehead,” which had been created for the July special election on the MBTA Communities Act, was required by law to close out the year and dissolve as an organization. One option for

MHS students brighten holidays with service COURTESY PHOTO

Members of the MHS Interact Club donated $1,200 worth of toys purchased at Mud Puddle Toys to Toys for Tots. They raised the money at a bake sale.

the committee was donating the remainder of its funds to a nonprofit organization.

“I wanted to let you know that the ballot question committee has signed a check worth $5,809.04 for the Marblehead Affordable Housing Trust fund, with a memo to the Select Board to direct the check to the Affordable Housing Trust and accept it as trustees of the fund,” wrote Yes for Marblehead’s Peirce Law. He continued, “The donation is intended to support the fund’s ongoing efforts to benefit low- and moderate-income households within our community, a mission that the Marblehead Housing Coalition shares and continues to strive for.”

The Marblehead High School Interact Club donated $1,200 worth of toys from Mud Puddle Toys to Toys for Tots at the Marblehead Fire Station. They raised the money at a bake sale during the town’s Dec. 5 Christmas tree lighting.

The Interact Club also donated toys from a drive at MHS. Interact Club students involved include: Callie Curtis, Chloe Roland, Owen Dulac, Isabel Mortenson, Julia Mann, June Crawford and Quinn Roland.

30-day Art Challenge

Peyton Pugmire of Creative Spirit will lead a 30-day, independent art challenge, where people will create in their own space and at their own pace. The 30 days do not need to be consecutive. Pugmire will host a closed group where the artists can share their creations.

Free. Register at creativespiritma.com/ event-details/30-day-art-challenge-2026.

No rate hike for electric customers in FY26

BY LEIGH BLANDER

COURTESY IMAGE / MMLD

$869,000, mostly due to interest earnings For the average home, Marblehead’s typical monthly electric cost is about $158, compared to $264 with National Grid.

High marks

Customers who participated in a Municipal Electric Association of Massachusetts survey gave Marblehead high marks with an 82.5% satisfaction rating, well above other independent and public power utilities, Blair

reported.

“The results were very favorable, so we’re quite pleased,” Blair said.

A few highlights: » Customer interactions, communication — 86.6% satisfaction » Restoring power after an outage in a reasonable amount of time — 95.7% » Providing good service and value — 84.6% » MMLD’s lowest score was 61.8%, in the category of “offering innovative programs

Teacher From P. 1

In fact, I am currently the only lead teacher enrolled in a master’s program and a leadership certificate program. There is no legitimate reason my position would be split, and I believe I have been discriminated against because I am Jewish and a Zionist.

I believe I have been retaliated against for speaking out about antisemitism.”

Following protocol, Karns first brought her grievance to the Veterans School principal and then to Superintendent John Robidoux, both of whom declined to restore her full lead teacher position. Robidoux said Thursday night that there was no compelling evidence to support claims that antisemitism motivated the position change.

Karns then brought her grievance to the School Committee on Thursday night.

If the committee declines to intervene, Magen said Karns will take the matter to a state arbitrator. The committee voted to confer in executive session, noting it has 21 days to respond.

In addition to filing a grievance through her union, Karns said she has amended a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination to include

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Veterans School English teacher Brigitte Karns, right, and her attorney Yael Magen at a School Committee meeting Dec. 18.

what she described as a demotion.

Karns addressed the committee alongside her attorney, Yael Magen of Marblehead.

“We’re here today asking you to do the most difficult thing a human being can do — admit a mistake happened and correct it,” Magen said.

Magen and Karns said retaliation was the only explanation for the decision to split the lead teacher position.

“Why was it cut by 50% a month after Ms. Karns talked publicly about the antisemitism that she felt?” Magen asked. “Is it a

CHAIR

Bob Peck NEWSROOM Editor - Leigh Blander

lblander@marbleheadnews.org

Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

Sports Reporter Joe McConnell

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Saoirse Stallings CONTRIBUTORS

Lizzie Assa Stephen Bach Linda Bassett Virginia Buckingham Julie Flynn Laurie Fullerton James (Seamus) Hourihan Dr. Tom Massaro Christine McCarriston Maggie Mulvihill Eyal Oren Pam Peterson Emily Promise Chris Stevens FREELANCE REPORTERS

Grey Collins Luca Tedesco Akanksha Goyal Bella Travaglini

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON

The Marblehead Municipal Light Department offered some good news recently — ratepayers will not see an increase in 2026.

“We want to emphasize that in these economic conditions and the current energy market, it is increasingly difficult to maintain level rates,” MMLD Executive Director Jon Blair told the Current. “Consumers are seeing a lot of headlines about the cost of energy going up. While we are not immune from the upward pressure on costs and rates, we are striving to work within our means and maintain affordability for our customers.”

At a Dec. 17 meeting, Blair called the department’s budget “very lean” and shared the following financial metrics: » Projected revenue is $500,000 more than budgeted » Projected expenses are $1 million more than budgeted, due mostly to higher power costs » Projected operating income: $100,000 » Projected net income:

NEWS FOR PEOPLE, NOT FOR PROFIT.

coincidence? The timing seems very strange.”

At one point, Magen removed a menorah from her bag and spoke about Hanukkah, which is being celebrated this week. She referenced a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia in which more than 15 people were killed and spoke about fear within the Jewish community.

“Our students feel it,” Magen said.

Referring to arbitration, she asked, “What are you going to do? Are you going to cowardly take this problem and give it to

and services.”

Blair discussed what he called an “ambitious” five-year capital plan totalling more than $10 million in infrastructure investments in the local system.

He also offered an update on a plan to partner with the company Lightshift to build a utility-scale battery energy storage system at the Village substation on the Rail Trail. The project could save Marblehead customers about $500,000 a year, Blair said.

Lawyers are reviewing the plan.

MMLD is also working on a transmission resiliency project to fortify the town’s power supply in three phases. » Covering several of MMLD’s wooden poles with galvanized steel near the National Grid station in Salem (December 2025-October 2026) » Moving underground 1,800 feet of the sub-transmission lines along the utility corridor in Marblehead (August 2026June 2027) » Phase 3 would move another 3,900 feet of lines underground. August 2026-TBD.

someone else? Or are you going to face antisemitism and say, ‘We do not tolerate that in our district’?”

Magen said arbitration and litigation related to the MCAD complaint could cost Marblehead Public Schools approximately $100,000.

“If you amend this and take the great and courageous step, arbitration is gone,” Magen said.

“The MCAD complaint is gone.

And for Jewish teachers and students, we will know we are protected.”

School Committee member Jenn Schaeffner described the allegations as “very serious” and questioned why Karns was not being represented by an attorney from the teachers union. Karns said the union had not been supportive.

“All MEA members are entitled to equal access to representation and support,” the MEA wrote to the Current. “In this case, the MEA was not notified of the grievance at the initial stage and first became aware of it when it advanced to step 2. At that point, the union asserted its responsibility under the law and the contract as the exclusive bargaining representative to be present and made representation available. Ms. Karns elected not to be represented by the MEA and chose to proceed with private legal counsel.”

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 3

Mural From P. 1

Artist-in-residence Bren Bataclan works with Village School students on a new mural in the school.

COURTESY PHOTO

students drew things like snowflakes or gems. For ‘safe,’ there were crossing guards. For ‘caring,’ hands holding a heart.”

Students drew their images on paper and Bataclan picked about 40 to recreate, larger-than-life, on the wall near the front office.

Fifth-grader Quentin Callahan drew a superhero cat, who fights off bad guys and keeps everyone safe. He was thrilled when Bataclan painted his character on the wall.

“This is so cool, honestly, because I want to be a cartoonist when I grow up,” Callahan said. “I’ve just liked drawing ever since I was young.”

Callahan said he’s looking forward to walking past the mural every day at school.

“Even if I get used to it, I’m sure I’m gonna notice something new every time,” he said.

Bataclan and the art teachers staged a big reveal on Friday afternoon, so the whole school could see the finished product.

“The students have real ownership and connection to this mural,” McCarthy said after the project was complete.

The Village School PTO funded Bataclan’s visit. You can learn more about his work at bataclan.com.

Artist Bren Bataclan shows how he transposed students’ drawings onto a mural at Village School.

CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER

Village School fifth grader Quentin Callahan holds his own drawing of a superhero cat while artist Bren Bataclan transposes it onto the student mural.

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from the team at the Marblehead Current

Team Current: Gene Arnould • Jessica Barnett • Leigh Blander • Virginia Buckingham • Brian Burke • Cheryl Byrne • Grey Collins • Akanshka Goyal • Joe Kahn • Liz Koch • Joe McConnell • Kris Olson • Robert Peck Donna Rice • Mark Schwartz • Luca Tedesco • Kate Thompson • Bella Travaglini • David Vigneron • Rick Weed

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The town has sent a new 3A compliance plan, which includes part of the Tedesco County Club, to the state for preliminary approval.

CURRENT PHOTO / GREY COLLINS

2025 TOP STORIES

Trash strike, zoning fight and a new trike: Marblehead’s year to remember

BY LEIGH BLANDER Choosing the top stories of any year isn’t easy.

Here are the headlines that resonated the most with the Current newsroom.

MBTA Communities Act

The state’s MBTA Communities Act, which requires 177 cities and towns to zone for multifamily housing, dominated Marblehead headlines this year.

Town Meeting in May approved a plan identifying three multifamily housing zones: Broughton Road, part of Pleasant Street near Village Plaza and Tioga Way. Before Town Meeting adjourned, opponents of the law — known as 3A — began collecting signatures to force a special election to reconsider the vote.

They invoked a never-before-used bylaw to bring the issue to the ballot, and in July, voters rejected the zoning plan. The outcome left Marblehead noncompliant with state law, jeopardizing millions of dollars in potential state grants and prompting warnings from the Attorney General’s Office about possible legal action.

Town leaders later met with 3A opponents to explore a new approach and recently submitted a revised zoning proposal to the state for preliminary review. The updated plan still includes Broughton Road and adds rezoning at Tedesco Country Club for multifamily housing. If the state gives a green light, the proposal will return to Town Meeting in May.

13-year-old dies in crash On Aug. 19, 13-year-old Savanah Gatchell was killed in an early-morning crash on Atlantic Avenue. Police charged a 16-year-old boy with operating under the influence and motor vehicle homicide.

Hundreds attended a candlelight vigil at Devereux Beach, tossing flowers into the waves in Gatchell’s memory. The boy’s family released a statement saying they were “devastated and heartbroken” for the victim’s family. Police and the Essex County District Attorney’s Office have not released the suspect’s name because he is a juvenile.

The crash renewed community discussions about teen substance use and abuse. Officials from the Select Board, Board of Health and School Committee have all been involved in the conversations.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

People tossed flowers in the waves at Devereux Beach to honor Savanah Gatchell, the 13-year-old killed by an alleged drunk driver in August.

Flag policy After more than a year of debate and student-led protests, the School Committee on May 1 approved a controversial flag policy restricting which flags and banners may be displayed in Marblehead schools.

Following several revisions, the policy permits U.S., Massachusetts and POW/MIA flags, along with flags recognizing a limited number of heritage days. Students seeking to display additional flags or banners must request permission from the superintendent.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

The School Committee approved (4-1) a controversial flag policy. The issue prompted months of debate and protests.

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 5

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

The Republic Services trash strike impacted Marblehead and several other communities from July through September.

Trash strike Marbleheaders made lots of trips to the Transfer Station this summer when a Republic Services trash and recycling strike disrupted curbside pickup from July 1 through Sept. 19. The strike affected several North Shore communities and beyond.

Republic’s 10-year contract with the town expires in 2026, and the Board of Health has projected that a new contract could double in cost to about $2 million annually.

FBI and ICE agents detained three Marblehead landscapers on Beach Street.

COURTESY PHOTO / SARAH FOX

ICE raid ICE and FBI agents detained three Marblehead landscapers on Sept. 12, pulling them from their truck on Beach Street. One man was deported to Guatemala, while two others remained in detention in Louisiana, according to their former employer at Lassana Landscaping.

Community members donated more than $13,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to assist the men and their families.

Gallo settlement On Oct. 22, the town announced a $295,000 settlement with Police Officer Chris Gallo for back salary, missed overtime and detail pay he might have earned while suspended with pay from June 2021 until his reinstatement in March of 2025.

Gallo had been suspended and later fired after being accused of spending extended periods at home during overnight shifts and engaging in conduct unbecoming an officer. He appealed, and on Feb. 12 an arbitrator ordered the town to reinstate him.

The settlement came on top of at least $340,149 in legal and related costs incurred during Gallo’s suspension and arbitration, according to town financial records obtained through public records requests.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

Marblehead monk Father Andrew Bushell accuses the town and the Department of Justice of colluding against him.

CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD

A Neck resident put up signs banning people from using the public way near his property, known as Cove Lane, to access a public beach, prompting an outcry.

Cove Lane A longstanding footpath to the ocean on Marblehead Neck became the subject of legal review after a neighboring homeowner moved to restrict public access, raising broader questions about so-called “paper streets” throughout

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COURTESY IMAGE

After several accidents in town, police and the Traffic Safety Advisory Committee launched an education campaign about the dangers of e-bikes.

In one of the Current’s mostread stories, the Marblehead High track teams bought a $1200 new trike for Nikolay Kuzmina, who is neurodiverse and loves riding in the MHS parking lot.

Monk lawsuit On Oct. 22, Marblehead monk Father Andrew Bushell filed a federal lawsuit alleging that the town and the U.S. Department of Justice colluded to prevent Bushell from “engaging in protected religious activity within Marblehead’s borders.”

The FBI raided Bushell’s Conant Road residence on Oct. 13, 2022, and arrested him on charges of misusing federal COVID-19 relief funds. The Justice Department later dropped the charges “in the interests of justice,” according to a DOJ statement.

The lawsuit claims Marblehead officials, motivated by hostility toward Bushell’s religious operation, made false reports to the FBI questioning his status as a monk and the legitimacy of his organizations.

The suit includes multiple plaintiffs, including St. Paul’s Foundation; the Shrine of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Patron of Sailors, Brewers and Repentant Thieves; and Marblehead Brewing Co. LLC.

The town announced a $295,000 settlement with Police Officer Chris Gallo after he was reinstated. Gallo was suspended, then fired, for allegedly spending long amounts of time at home during his overnight shift.

COURTESY PHOTO

town.

The path, known as Cove Lane, runs between private homes off Kimball Street and leads to a small beach overlooking Chandler Hovey Park. Though narrow and grassy, it has been used informally for decades and appears on town maps as a traditional passageway.

In July, abutter Gerald M. Shea of 13 Kimball St. filed a legal notice asserting private ownership and warning against any claim of public access “by custom, use or otherwise.” The notice was recorded July 21 at the Southern Essex District Registry of Deeds and posted on the property.

Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer said this fall that town counsel responded with evidence of joint ownership.

“As the town is a joint owner of that property, the town and the public have the right to access the property,” Kezer said, adding that he was unaware of any response from the homeowner’s attorney.

E-bike safety E-bikes became a flashpoint this year as residents complained about teenagers speeding and riding erratically around town. The Traffic Safety Advisory Committee discussed the issue multiple times, and Police Chief Dennis King issued an alert to residents.

Under Massachusetts law, only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes — which provide motor assistance up to 20 mph — are recognized as bicycles. Faster Class 3 e-bikes, capable of assisted speeds up to 28 mph, are classified as motor vehicles and require a driver’s license.

The committee ultimately decided against placing an e-bike-related article on the Town Meeting warrant this May.

New trike One of the Current’s most-read stories of the year centered on a simple act of kindness.

Members of the Marblehead High School track teams often saw 38-year-old Nikolay Kuzmina, who is neurodiverse, riding his large tricycle around the school parking lot in the afternoons — a daily ritual he cherished. When the trike’s axle snapped after hitting a pothole, the teams stepped in.

The track teams raised $1,200 to buy Kuzmina a new trike and surprised him with it at the school in March.

“I’m really overwhelmed,” Kuzmina told the Current. “I really like my bike so much. It’s good exercise, and I get a lot of fresh air.”

marbleheadcurrent.org

66 Wednesday, Wednesday, December December 24, 24, 2025 2025 Marblehead Marblehead Current Current

Opinion EDITORIAL

In our opinion, a year to remember Approaching the year-end holidays, we look back at many of the issues that dominated the Current’s editorial pages in 2025, motivated by our belief that Marblehead’s greatest asset is an informed and active citizenry.

Civic engagement and civil discourse were two themes threaded throughout, joined by a lengthy list of topics we deemed worthy of editorial comment and, in many cases, a recommended action plan.

The list included but was not limited to: · The MBTA Communities Act and whether Marblehead would ultimately endorse a revised zoning plan compliant with state law — or suffer the consequences, fiscal and otherwise. · An historic turnout at May’s Town Meeting, spread over four eventful nights, followed by June elections for town offices and a referendum driven re-vote on the still unresolved 3a question. (For the record, we continue to support a yes vote.) · An article-by-article rundown of Town Meeting action items, with a check mark on the ones earning our endorsement. · The debate over formulating a school flag policy that balanced DEI concerns and students’ input with the School Committee’s authority to set rules on appropriate signage. · The growing spotlight on teenage drinking, local law enforcement’s response and community mental health in general — in one form or another, the subject of multiple editorials written before and after the tragic death in August of 13-year-old Savanah Gatchell caused by an alleged drunk driver. · Soaring homeowner insurance costs, a shrinking housing supply and Marblehead’s vulnerability to rising sea levels and other climate-related challenges.

Our focus has generally been on hyperlocal issues rather than federal and state policies that have often seemed confusing, capricious, or both. There were times, though, when we felt obliged to note that, as we wrote in March about escalating assaults on a free press, “what happens in Washington doesn’t necessarily stay in Washington.”

In that spirit, we questioned a flurry of executive orders aimed at governing how public schools tackle subjects like gender identity and structural racism — or avoid them altogether in the name of promoting a so-called “patriotic education.”

“Needless to say,” we observed, “teachers did not enter their profession thinking they would be forced onto the frontlines of a multipronged ideological war.”

In another editorial, we addressed the recent government shutdown and threatened loss of SNAP benefits to millions who, like hundreds of our own neighbors, face food insecurity on a daily basis. Whether SNAP benefits will continue in 2026 remains unclear. But, as we emphasized, providing food assistance is not charity, it’s an expression of community values. “While we cannot directly control what happens in Washington,” we added, “we can absolutely control how we respond here at home.”

We underscored that same point in highlighting October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign and how local support can help counteract the illbegotten war on medical science being waged by D.C. health officials.

Among other subjects meriting our attention were: e-bikes, campus cellphones, AI and how their use (and misuse) affects our young people especially; why the religious exemption for school vaccinations should be eliminated; the protracted legal drama (since resolved) around police officer Christopher Gallo; and remembering military hero Christopher Piper MHS ‘80 on the 20th anniversary of his death.

Also, a summertime salute to an extraordinary group of student-athletes and other local heroes; giving kudos to Glover’s Regiment reenactors and Okos firemen for keeping Marblehead history both alive and fun; why we love exploring the town’s hidden wonders, buried secrets and natural beauties; and, of course, thanking Current readers for your continued support, financial and otherwise, as we begin another eventful and challenging year.

Next week we’ll look ahead to 2026 and some of the issues on which we will be keeping a close editorial eye. In the meantime, our very best wishes for a joyous and meaningful holiday season.

EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY

Fill our stockings with resilience

BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM That I spent a few minutes Googling how Americans celebrated Christmas after Pearl Harbor is indicative of the impact on my holiday spirit of the recent violent news cycle. I know I’m not alone in that sentiment.

And, as it always does, the past sheds light on the future. Thank you, history.

The Christmas of 1941 was just weeks after the devastating surprise attack on the Pacific Fleet. I can’t imagine how Americans managed to inject any joy into their homes in the wake of that harbinger of immense loss and grief. Yet they did.

None other than Winston Churchill, who traveled to America in the immediate aftermath, showed the way. The British prime minister joined President Roosevelt in the lighting of the national Christmas tree and exhorted: “Let the children have their night of fun and laughter. Let the gifts of Father Christmas delight their play. Let us grown-ups share to the full in their unstinted pleasures before we turn again to the stern task and the formidable years that lie before us, resolved that, by our sacrifice and daring, these same children shall not be robbed of their inheritance or denied their right to live in a free and decent world.”

What wisdom. Thank you, Mr. Churchill.

Personal loss and hardship as well as national and global tragedies shape this season for many as well. I had never really listened closely to the words of Joni Mitchell’s “River” but it seems to capture the feeling of trying to hold the magic of the season while carrying grief. “It’s coming on Christmas. They’re cutting down trees. They’re putting up reindeer. And singing songs of joy and peace. Oh I wish I had a river I could skate away on.” Who hasn’t had that exact feeling at some point?

Thank you for giving us words for it, Ms. Mitchell.

My brother, who is skating away this Christmas to the Florida Keys, likes to tease me that I should put a subhead on my columns reading “Everything will be okay: Depressing Marbleheaders since 2022.” Ha ha and thank you for the always-pointed humor, Bill!

But adding to our emotional load is not my point, at least not today! I’m actually in awe of those who, as Churchill put it, “share to the full” in the season despite their circumstances.

How do they do it?

A contemporary British public figure seems to have put his finger on it. Andy Coulson, a former spokesman for 10 Downing Street who endured his own downfall, hosts the global podcast “Crisis What Crisis” with new episodes dropping every week. His guests embody what he calls “lessons in resilience when life unravels.” A recent guest was Amanda Knox, wrongfully imprisoned

Life can be very, very hard, yet we push forward. What better season to reflect on what unites rather than divides than Christmas? for murder in Italy, but many are people you wouldn’t know but can relate to as they share their stories of addiction, health crisis, sudden loss of a loved one, or career debacle. At the end of each interview, Coulson asks his guests for three “crisis cures” — in other words what were their top tools for not only surviving their crisis but transforming it. I hope someday that Coulson compiles all of these tips in a book, but meanwhile check out the podcast when you need a reminder that it is possible to bear the unbearable.

That so many of our fellow human beings do so is heartening, no, actually it’s miraculous. Thank you, Mr. Coulson.

Back to Churchill and Roosevelt. During their cables back and forth arranging for that post-attack Christmas visit, each commented that their countries were “in the same boat.” The tales of resilience captured by Coulson, your own and those you know personally, are a reminder that we are indeed all in this same boat called the human experience. Life can be very, very hard, yet we push forward. What better season to reflect on what unites rather than divides than Christmas?

You’ve noticed I’ve extended thanks throughout this column. I’d like to close by sharing a practice I’m trying each morning as my own “crisis cure.” For the last few weeks, as soon as I open my eyes in the morning, before I grab my phone, before I open the blinds, before I move to start the day, I’ve been saying a prayer of gratitude. But rather than just thanking God for my blessings (or the universe or whatever higher power you pray to, if you do), I list specifically what I’m grateful for in that moment. In doing so, I’m trying to stay aware that life’s gifts are not so much bestowed but instead something that we have to work at daily in tandem with a force we don’t really understand but believe is there. It’s a peaceful, hope-filled way to start the day and I have a feeling this gratitude practice feeds resilience.

One final thank you, to you, dear Current readers. I hope you and yours are able to “share to the full” in the light of this beautiful season.

Virginia Buckingham is a former president of the Marblehead Current board of directors, a frequent commentator on WCVB’s On the Record and author of “On My Watch A Memoir.” She is working on a second memoir, “As This Mountain” in her newly empty nest and writes a biweekly column for the Current.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

‘Peace on my earth: The greatest gift’ To the editor: There is the grand picture of Peace on Earth, and then there is a vision much more personal. This time of the year many capture the longing for global peace, and this image is a beautiful one to keep in our mind’s eye. Believe it or not — it will come.

But we cannot afford to wait for the world to give us peace on our earth and in our own lives. It is a great joy to give to others; tis better to give than to receive! There is a gift that I want to receive this year, and it is a rare gift, one that cannot be unwrapped or tied with ribbon and string but long for, desperately.

Sometimes the ‘peacemakers’ are not only disliked, they are targets of dislike or hate. This might be because they try to force peace, and it cannot be forced. Peace is not just the absence of external conflict.

Peace is not plastic and superficial where we pretend that everything is OK, either. Peace is the greatest gift on this earth but believe it or not, it is costly.

I am learning to let go of trying to make peace with those who are committed to chaos. If someone is

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.

committed to misunderstanding me, I have to stay committed to understanding myself.

There is a book I read, and highly recommend, called “Safe People.”

People who are safe are people who have created boundaries around

their energy, too, and because of this, honor the boundaries we have made for ourselves.

If we have cultivated peace within, our bodies can inform us of LETTERS, P. 7

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 7

MARBLEHEAD COUNSELING CENTER

How to get the most out of therapy

BY JULIE OULLETTE, LICSW

For more than five decades, Marblehead Counseling Center has been providing direct services to individuals and families in the town of Marblehead and our surrounding communities. But as the number of people turning to therapeutic interventions continues to surge, it’s more important than ever for clients to know how to get the most from their therapy sessions. Clients get out of therapy what they put into it.

At MCC, we’ve found you really can prepare for success with some simple strategies.

Step one for patients is to think about their goals so that you can share these with your provider.

Take a moment to list what you need and want from therapy.

It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, and goals can change as you dive into the work. If you really don’t know where to start, there are many places to investigate the creation of S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timebound) therapy goals. (growtherapy.com) Nearly 60 million American adults, or one-in-five people, will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year, and one-in-seven youth ages 6-17 will experience a mental health disorder. There are approximately 200,000 licensed therapists and 81,000 psychologists delivering

Knowing what you are trying to accomplish in therapy and consistently working towards it is key.

Part of the team at the Marblehead Counseling Center.

essential services to clients in the U.S. It’s important to remember that this is a collaboration between you and your provider. You need to feel comfortable enough to be honest about what’s going on in your life, but also in your relationship with your therapist. If something isn’t working for you, speak up so that it can be addressed. Be an active participant in this journey.

Knowing what you are trying to accomplish in therapy and consistently working towards it is key. Show up to your appointment, do the work you are assigned and try to have an open mind. Therapy has changed over time. For instance, I use Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing with some of my clients, which has been shown

COURTESY PHOTO

to help with PTSD, among other diagnoses. It wasn’t widely used when I started out. We used to meet face-to-face with everyone, but today, we can accommodate both in person and online types of sessions, based on client preferences.

There are also different types of therapy and therapists available, such as cognitive behaviorists, who help identify unhealthy, negative beliefs and highlight coping strategies, versus psychoanalysts who analyze thoughts and behavior and look at motivation.

We also strongly suggest you try out some of the new strategies you are learning in sessions. Report back to your provider if something is working, or not. Remember that

you are looking for progress, not perfection at this point.

It might take time to feel any improvement. It’s all part of getting healthier.

Is it worth it? In a recent mental health survey by ThriveWorks, an incredible 87% of people who undergo therapy report that their lives have improved from the experience, citing boosted confidence, happiness and self esteem.

Marie Oullette, LICSW, has been the chief clinical officer at Marblehead Counseling Center for the past five years, and in practice for 32 years. She has worked with a wide range of diagnoses in both children and adults, including bipolar, depression, anxiety, phobias and trauma, as well as elder issues and women’s issues during her three decades as a clinician.

Types of therapists

Cognitive behavioral therapy: Helps identify unhealthy, negative beliefs and behaviors and learn healthier coping skills.

Dialectical behavior therapy: Type of CBT that teaches behavioral skills to help handle

stress, manage emotions and improve relationships with others.

Acceptance and commitment therapy: Helps with awareness and acceptance of thoughts and feelings and commitment to making changes. Improves ability to cope with, and adjust to, challenging situations.

Psychodynamic and psychoanalysis therapies: Increase awareness of thoughts and behaviors, investigates motivation and help with conflict resolution.

Interpersonal psychotherapy: Focuses on problems with relationships and improving relationships to others.

Supportive psychotherapy: Improves ability to cope with stress and difficult situations.

Source: Mayo Clinic Resources National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) - Mental Health Indicators | Data | Centers for Disease Control and Prevention samhsa.gov/mental-health/ what-is-mental-health/facts .nami.org/about-mentalillness/mental-health-bythe-numbers/ mhanational. org/quick-facts/ harmonyhit. com/state-of-gen-z-mentalhealth/ integrativepsychology. org/us-mental-healthworkforce-stats thriveworks. com/help-with/research/ pulse-on-mental-health-report/

SUSTAINABLE MARBLEHEAD

Energy Coach Program helps cut costs, emissions

BY ELAINE LEAHY

Does this sound familiar? You want to pursue something new, start down a path, but then become overwhelmed at the amount of knowledge to take in, only to give up in confusion and discouragement?

Many of us can relate to this scenario. That’s one reason Sustainable Marblehead has decided to launch an Energy Coach Program, a free, community-based initiative designed to help residents reduce energy costs, improve home comfort and take meaningful steps toward a clean energy future.

The program connects Marblehead residents with technically trained volunteer energy coaches. These are local neighbors who provide oneon-one guidance on practical energy-saving actions.

From scheduling home energy audits to understanding insulation, heat pumps, electric vehicles and solar power, the program aims to make clean energy solutions easier to understand and more accessible.

“Many people want to lower their energy bills and reduce their environmental impact, but it can be a daunting process,”

said Lisa Wolf, energy coach coordinator for Sustainable Marblehead.

“Our energy coaches help cut through the confusion. They listen first, then help residents create a plan that fits their home, budget, and goals.”

Letters

I am referring to putting our mental health and overall wellbeing first, before we set out to care for others. Love is a gift that we give to ourselves, first, and it is the forerunner to peace in our own backyard. I call it shalom, shalom!

Not everyone will jump up for joy at this found treasure in ourselves: that is, unless they are pursuing peace, too. Even if peace seems too good to be true, whether with ourselves or this imperfect world, it most surely is not. But, it is going to cost

From P. 6

what is going on in our hearts and minds, where we might have disconnected from ourselves.

I am going to gift myself this holiday season with internal tidings of peace, love and joy.

In this busy season of gifting others, may we gift ourselves with finding peace on our personal corner of the earth.

Taking care of ourselves is not selfish. I am not talking about getting our nails done, either.

Personalized guidance from local volunteers Energy coaches are volunteers who live in Marblehead and have been trained by the HeatSmart Alliance. They are not contractors or salespeople, but neighbors offering trusted, unbiased information. Coaches can answer questions, explain options and connect residents with reputable local resources and programs.

One strength of the program is that it is based on a personal, localized approach. Rather than relying on generic online advice, residents receive guidance tailored to their specific homes and circumstances.

“Every house is different,” said Wolf. “A solution that works for one family may not be right for another. Energy coaches help people focus on what will make the biggest difference for them.”

energy audits to its electric customers through NextZero, while National Grid gas customers are also eligible for free assessments through the Mass Save program. These audits provide a detailed report on energy-saving measures and available rebates and incentives.

The program connects Marblehead residents with technically trained volunteer energy coaches.

Weatherization: A smart first step One of the most effective ways to reduce energy use is through weatherization — sealing air leaks and ensuring a home is properly insulated.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that homeowners can save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs through these improvements.

Energy coaches encourage residents to start with a professional home energy audit, which identifies energy-saving opportunities and outlines costeffective upgrades.

Marblehead Municipal Light Department offers free home

us something. We just have to decide if we are willing to pay the price and if so, know that finding it within ourselves is good enough.

Brendalee Baughman Broughton Road

Hateful speech promotes more hate To the editor: Recent news is begging us to at least try to limit or end

Heat pumps, solar and efficient appliances Energy coaches also help residents explore modern electric technologies that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Air-source heat pumps provide efficient heating and cooling and are suitable for a wide range of home types in Marblehead.

Heat pumps are two-to-three times more efficient than oil, gas or propane systems, significantly reducing energy costs while improving indoor comfort. It’s a good idea to plan ahead for making the change to avoid facing an emergency replacement in the dead of winter.

Solar energy is another option we can help with. Rooftop photovoltaic panels generate clean electricity from the sun and are designed to last for decades. Even in New England’s

violence and hatred. It has become so horrible that it’s really difficult to bear. One sane and simple thing we could do as human beings is to refrain from using rhetoric comparing our president to Hitler or Nazis.

Plain and simple, he is no more a Nazi or Hitler than my sweet grandmother was. If you want to see what Nazis do, go to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum in Israel, and see what the Nazis did to innocent Jewish people and many others.

It has become abundantly

climate, solar systems perform well year-round.

Coaches can also explain the benefits of high-efficiency appliances, such as heat pump water heaters, induction cooktops and heat pump clothes dryers. There are many options out there to explore and we can help you sort it all out.

Sign-ups open now

The Energy Coach Program is open to all Marblehead residents, whether they are ready to make upgrades now or simply want to explore their options. Consultations are free, personalized and pressure-free.

You can sign up by emailing us at energycoach@ sustainablemarblehead.org or by visiting sustainablemarblehead. org/energycoaching. Community members are also encouraged to spread the word by sharing information about the program with friends and family.

“This program is about empowerment,” Wolf said.

“When people have clear, unbiased information and trusted local support, real change becomes possible.”

Elaine Leahy is Sustainable Marblehead’s executive director.

clear that this type of hateful speech promotes more hate, violence, killing and pure evil.

It provides nothing positive to our well-being. Please hold back from using such language when writing to a public newspaper.

Your words might just be the words that push the next person to act on their derangement.

In addition, thank you, Mark Ferrante, for all your thoughtful letters to the editor.

Ellen Levine Mcswiggin Farrell Court

marbleheadcurrent.org

8 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

From Our Family To Yours,

Happy Holidays, Marblehead!

REALTOR® Home Stager Luxury Property Specialist

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Mindy McMahon As a REALTOR® & Home Stager, I make the selling process effortless by enhancing homes with my curated inventory, resulting in faster sales at higher prices. Contact me for a free home evaluation & expert staging advice.

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Buying or selling isn’t just a transaction—it’s a negotiation.

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REALTOR® Luxury Property Specialist

Lindsey McCarthy As one of the leading real estate advisors in Marblehead and Swampscott, I’m committed to sharing my deep knowledge and local market expertise to help you navigate our beautiful community with confidence.

781-608-6721 Lindsey.McCarthy@cbrealty.com LindseyMcCarthy.com

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

REALTOR® Luxury Property Specialist

Wendy Webber With 20+ years of experience from luxury to first-time buyers, I bring local market expertise & a hands on approach.

Guiding you every step of the way with outstanding service & results.

781-576-9414 Wendy.Webber@cbrealty.com WendySWebber.com

REALTOR®

Jackie Polimeni Your ‘GO TO REALTOR’ offering exceptional service, dedication & professionalism, while creating a special bond with my clients.

Love & Pickleball make the world go 'round.

Lise Danforth Buying & Selling is all about strategy & reading the market. If honesty & integrity, local expertise & a smooth successful transaction are important to you, call Lise.

781-929-8535 Jackie.Polimeni@cbrealty.com JackiePYourGoToRealtor.com

978-853-2228 Lise.Danforth@cbrealty.com LiseDanforth.com

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 Marblehead Council on Aging 781-631-6225

Andrea Dodge If you are looking fora real estate agent with experience, knowledge and integrity please reach out.

We can meet to discuss the market and your g oals for buying and/or selling.

Dee Vigneron Buying & selling a home is fast paced in this market. Let my 44 years of experience assist you with all your real estate needs. Reach out if you 're planning a move.

Thanks, Dee!

781-953-4396 Andrea.Dodge@cbrealty.com AndreaDodgeSellsHomes.com

Janice Kostopoulos My priority is to recognize and respond to the needs of sellers and buyers. I provide confidence and trust based on my knowledge, experience and service.

978-407-4600 Dee.Vigneron@cbrealty.com DeeVigneron.com

617-365-6316 Janice.Kostopoulos@cbrealty.com

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Museo Naval, Madrid MNM-11076

Marblehead Museum

Final Weekends!

Friday-Saturday, December 26-27 and January 2-3 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

BILBAO BOUND: Rediscovering the North Shore’s Iberian Odysseys

Bilborako bandan: Massachusettseko Ipar Itsasertzaren iberiar odiseak berraurkitzen

Rumbo a Bilbao: Redescubriendo las odiseas ibéricas del Litoral Norte de Massachusetts

Marblehead Museum Gallery 170 Washington Street, Marblehead marbleheadmuseum.org exhibition presented by

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

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Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 9

Sports HOCKEY

Headers lose, 7-6, to Masco in OT thriller

BY LUCA TEDESCO The Marblehead Magicians boy’s hockey team was felled, 7-6, in overtime by the Masconomet Chieftains at Rockett Arena in Salem on Saturday afternoon.

“We made a conscious effort to get more shots on net after last weekend’s low output,” said Marblehead head coach, Brendan Locke. “We accomplished that with 31 shots tonight.

Defensively, we have to work on locking on your man and having a tougher mentality in the defensive zone.”

After falling behind 2-0 early

in the first period, Ryan Frary nabbed a turnover and wristed the puck into the net from between the hashes to cut the lead to one in the final minutes of the opening frame.

Masconomet put a third goal past Marblehead netminder, Bowden Laramie, in the dying seconds of the period to head to the locker room with a 3-1 advantage after 15 minutes of play.

Senior JJ Downey finally cashed in with his first varsity goal, recovering a blocked shot on the doorstep and backhanding it home to bring the Headers back within a goal.

“[Downey] has earned his minutes this year,” said Locke.

“His biggest strength is his hockey IQ. He’s always in the right spot.”

Marblehead’s Hayden Gallo would tie the game at three goals apiece, poking the puck over the goal line in a wild netfront scramble. The tie would be short-lived, however, with the Chieftains responding just 14 seconds later off a slap shot from the top of the circles.

The Chieftains once again went into the intermission with a two goal lead, cashing in on a turnover with 26 seconds remaining in the middle frame.

Masco would grab their sixth midway through the third period on the powerplay, potting a rebound off the rush to put the game in firm control of the visitors as time wound down.

Facing the largest deficit of the night, Downey’s second marker of the game sparked hope for the Magicians with six minutes to play in regulation. The rally would be bolstered by an Andrew Wilson goal just 75 seconds later, cutting the lead to 6-5.

A late powerplay gave the Chieftains a chance to put the game away, but the heartattack Headers would find an opening and capitalize with Teddy Dulac

scoring shorthanded to complete a three goal comeback with under two minutes remaining in the third period.

The overtime session would quickly see a decision as Masconomet’s Joe Ingalls nabbed his third point of the night to make the final score 7-6 Chieftains.

The Headers will head to Gloucester to play Medfield in the semifinal of the Cape Ann Savings Bank Tournament on Friday, Dec. 26, at 5 p.m. They will then play either Gloucester or Medford based on results on Saturday, Dec. 27, at a time to be determined.

ON THE COURT

Marblehead girls win two straight following opening night loss at Danvers

BY JOE MCCONNELL After dropping the regular season opener to host Danvers on Dec, 12, 54-25, the Marblehead High School girls basketball team (2-1) won its next two games against Beverly in the home opener on Dec. 16, 33-20, and Saugus two nights later back on the road, 44-32.

Veteran basketball mentor Paul Moran, who’s beginning his eighth season as the team’s head coach, really likes the makeup of this year’s club. “We have a good combination of veteran players mixed in with a youthful blend of talented (athletes) this season,” he said. “Our goal this year is to go beyond the first round of the state tournament.”

Among the leaders on the varsity this year are its five seniors, which includes its three captains of Tessa Andriano, Greta Sachs and Samara Dosch.

Dosch, however, is currently recovering from a knee injury sustained during the soccer season, but by all accounts, she should be back by midseason.

Hailey Schmitt and Nora Mahan round out the senior contingent on the squad that will provide much experience for a return trip to the postseason. The Magicians finished up last year with a 14-8 record after losing to host Reading in a Division 2 preliminary round state tournament game, 39-20.

Sammy Walker, Carys Moran and Ainsley McDonald are the juniors on the team, but like Dosch, McDonald will be out until midseason with a knee injury.

Lucy McDonald and Eliza Bland are the team’s sophomores, while Eleanor Morgan, Maia Fiore, Stella Smith, Anna Cannuscio and Teagan Shaw made the final cut as freshmen.

Joe Fields will once again be Moran’s assistant along the sidelines. Joe’s daughter, Melissa, is the JV coach. Michelle Bradbury will help out the coaches on both teams with her basketball knowledge. There’s a total of 23 players in the entire program.

These Magicians all came together against Beverly to record their first win of the season. The captains led the way

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW

COURTESY PHOTOS / VICTORIA DOSCH

Marblehead High girls basketball sophomore Lucy McDonald (2) brings the ball up court against Saugus at the TD Garden last January.

McDonald sneaked in there with 12 to help her teammates maintain a safe margin of difference against the home team Sachems.

Mahan came through with three points, followed by Schmitt and Moran with two each. In this game, Marblehead had the lead at halftime, 21-15.

“We were able to hold their star player Peyton DiBiasio to just seven points, which helped us secure this victory,” said Moran.

Boys bounce back against visiting Saugus Marblehead High girls basketball senior captain Greta Sachs (25) scores two on a layup against Saugus at the TD Garden last January.

Tessa Andriano and Samara Dosch join Sachs as captains of this year’s team.

in this contest, with Andriano pouring in nine and Sachs close behind with seven.

Morgan chipped in with six.

Moran ended up with four.

Cannuscio accounted for three.

Lucy McDonald and Fiore scored two apiece.

The Panthers actually led at

halftime, 16-12, but, according to Moran, “we made the plays to beat them in the second half.”

It was all about the captains once again against Saugus with added support from a sophomore. Andriano paced the attack with 13 points, and Sachs was credited with 10. But

The Marblehead High boys basketball team (3-1) lost its first game of the season against Beverly on Dec. 16, 61-42, but they bounced right back two nights later at home versus Saugus, 70-48.

The Magicians also trailed Beverly at the half, 37-22. “(The Panthers) jumped out early, leading after one quarter, 19-4, and never looked back,” said coach Mike Giardi. “We really couldn’t get anything going

offensively, but credit Beverly’s smothering defense for that. We still fought hard well into the second half, but that initial surge

by Beverly in the first quarter was just too much to overcome.”

The Marblehead boys wasted little time to get back into the win column. It came against Saugus, where they led throughout, including at the half, 36-22.

“We attacked Saugus early and often by wearing them down, particularly in the third quarter, when we extended the lead,” said Giardi.

Junior captain Finn Baron led the way with 26 points, including 17 in the second half alone.

Senior Cam Weaver was next in line with 14. A total of nine Marblehead players made it into the scoring column.

Coach Giardi’s team began Christmas week with a nonleague road game against Bishop Fenwick on Dec. 21 after press deadline. They will then have an extended break, before returning to competitive games on Jan. 5 at home against Masco, beginning at 7 p.m.

marbleheadcurrent.org

10 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

IN BRIEF

Magicians winter sports weekly notebook

BY JOE MCCONNELL

Swimmers win opener

The Marblehead High swim and dive team defeated host Peabody, 95-81 in the regular season opener on Dec. 16. These Magicians are now off for the holidays.

They will resume the schedule on Jan. 6 against Danvers at St. John’s Prep, starting at 6:30 p.m.

“We’re off to a great start with many cuts for the postseason already,” said veteran coach Sue Guertin.

Ian Chemel, Cale Nelson, Brady Leveroni and Omar Elnabarawy (1:49.88, sectional cut) and Grace Ladouceur, Shae Callahan, Hazell Wright and Winnie Waddington (1:54.81, state cut) were the top two 200-yard medley relay quartets from the Peabody meet.

Elnabarawy (2:02.94), Chemel (2:03.31) and Waddington (2:06.81, state cut) swept the 200-yard freestyle event, as did Nelson (2:11,31, state cut), Leveroni (2:15.62) and Lorelai Mosher (2:40) in the 200-yard individual medley.

In the 50-yard freestyle, Orion Lewis (23.31, state cut), Elnabarawy (24.34) and Phillip Gaber (26.54) maintained the team’s domination over the Tanners with another sweep.

Claire Burke (165.95 points) bested the entire diving field. Ivan Monin (135.95) and Elizabeth Hayes (124.98) came in fourth and fifth.

Leveroni (56.76, sectional cut) and Hazell Wright (1:01.12, state cut) topped the ticket in the 100-yard butterfly.

Mosher (1;13.32) was fourth. Waddington (55.69, state cut), Grace Ladouceur (56.59, state cut) and Abigail Moore (1:00.68) experienced the same results in the 100yard freestyle.

Callahan (5:43,29, state cut), Macy Ladouceur (5:48.29, state cut) and Paxton Swanson (5:55.10) secured the top three places in the 500-yard freestyle. Chemel, Lewis, Gaber and Lucas Rosen (1:42.69) and Moore, Mosher, Macy Ladouceur and Monica Pechhold (1:55.88, sectional cut) occupied the top two spots in the 200yard freestyle relay.

Chemel (59.65, state cut) and Wright (1:04.72, state cut) were the leaders in the 100-yard backstroke. Meredith Kreevoy (1:25.81) came in fifth. Lewis (1:09.97), Callahan (1:16.12, state cut) and Pechhold (1:20.82) experienced a clean sweep in the 100-yard breaststroke.

Finally, in the 400-yard freestyle relay, the foursome of Elnabarawy, Nelson, Leveroni and Lewis (3:44.82) accounted for first place, and Grace Ladouceur, Waddington, Wright and Callahan (3:56.91, state cut) were right behind them in second place.

Black & Blue wrestlers begin season with success in annual tournament Wakefield’s Anthony Lisitano Memorial Tournament kicked off another wrestling season for the Marblehead / Swampscott Black & Blue co-op team on Dec. 13, and four of the locals were able to place in the match. They included senior captain Liam O’Brien (first, 4-0, 138-pounds), junior Jaymes Carey (third, 113-pounds), Devin DiBarri (sixth, 144-pounds) and senior captain Colin Hart (fourth, 175-pounds).

Hart was then informed that he was accepted early to the University of Miami, his top college choice. It was definitely a good first week for him.

Overall, the Black & Blue (91 points) placed 12th out of 16 teams. They just missed ending up in the Top 10 by less than a point. Shepherd Hill (91.5) and Haverhill (92) narrowly finished ahead of them.

Head coach Mike Stamison also praised his other grapplers, who competed well in the Lisitano Memorial. Stamison mentioned the likes of seventh grader Kristian Drolette (106-pounds), who gained valuable experience in this varsity match; freshman Kenny Drolette (120-pounds), who returned from a season-ending upper body injury last year to go 1-2 in Wakefield; freshman Platon Danshyn (126-pounds) showed great fight and promise; sophomore Ilan Hood (132-pounds) is getting close, but with some fine-tuning, he will have more success; freshman Nolan Glass (150-pounds) continues to improve daily; junior Andrew Delisle (157-poinds) went 1-2, and as a result big things are expected from him as a veteran; eighth grader Greyson Miller (165-pounds), despite being a lanky youngster, got into the starting lineup and should be winning matches sooner rather than later; first-year junior Colin Homan (190-pounds) looked good out there, and with more practice should start netting more wins; senior Phineas Jakious (215-pounds, 2-2) is getting used to a larger weight class. He’s up from 175 last season, and looks stronger and is ready to make noise; and finally at 285 eighth grader Gavin Dombkowski wrestled great. He went 1-2 in his varsity debut, but with more practice, he will also be a solid contributor, while filling in for the starters at 215 or 285.

The Marblehead co-op then opened up the regular season four days later against host Gloucester, where they lost to the Fishermen, 57-24.

“It was a tough start to the Northeastern Conference season,” said Stamison. “We still have lots to work on, but thankfully it’s early.”

There were several highlights from the season opener, including Carey, who recorded a pin. O’Brien was also credited with a pin, as were Glass and Hart. In an exhibition, sophomore Phil Duclos followed the trend to pick up his firstever win by pin.

They then lost to the Sachems co-op the very next night at Pentucket Regional, 49-27, a team also made up of Newburyport wrestlers. But there were also some highlights, including Carey, who secured another win by pin, as did O’Brien. Delisle won a close 8-4 decision as time expired in his match.

Jakious avenged a loss from the Lisitano Memorial with a convincing pin. At 285, senior Xavier Tejeda was credited with a pin. In an exhibition, freshman Dylan Soule was able to record his first career pin.

Indoor track teams compete in NEC Invite The Reggie Lewis Athletic Complex in Roxbury was the site of the Northeastern Conference Invite to kick off another indoor track season on Dec. 12. It’s where all of the conference schools compete as one to give coaches like Marblehead’s Nolan Raimo a chance to see what they have to work with in each event this year, while also checking out the competition, before the regular season gets going for real.

Boys high jump All three Marblehead jumpers cleared 5-6 or better to finish in the Top 10.

Clark Roszell (6-0) bested the entire field. Owen Coyne (5-8) finished fifth, matching his personal best. Ethan Harwood (5-6) was ninth.

Girls long jump Maggie Miller (14-10, personal best) ended up third. Zoe Dwyer (13-8.75) was

VARSITY SCOREBOARD Sunday, Dec. 14 Girls hockey: Leominster 3, Marblehead 2 Tuesday, Dec. 16 Girls basketball: Marblehead 33, Beverly 20 Boys basketball: Beverly 61, Marblehead 42 Co-ed swimming: Marblehead 95, Peabody 81 Wednesday, Dec. 17 Girls track: Marblehead 59, Beverly 35 Boys track: Beverly 43, Marblehead 42 Boys wrestling: Gloucester

57, Marblehead 24 Girls hockey: Marblehead 3, Newburyport 2 (OT) Thursday, Dec. 18 Girls basketball: Marblehead 44, Saugus 32 Boys wrestling: Pentucket 49, Marblehead 21 Boys basketball: Marblehead 70, Saugus 48 Girls gymnastics: Marblehead 121, Peabody 80 Saturday, Dec. 20 Girls hockey: Pope Francis 5, Marblehead 1

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead / Swampscott Black & Blue assistant coach Rob Hopkins, senior captain Liam O’Brien, proudly wearing his winning medal from the Lisitano Memorial Tournament, head coach Mike Stamison and assistant coach Jeff Hinshaw, from left, pose together after O’Brien came out on top in the 138-pound weight class during the annual invitational in Wakefield on Dec. 13.

seventh, and Lilah Greten (12-2) 12th.

Boys long jump Colin Burke (18-5) came in seventh.

Alex Humphreys (17-1) was 12th.

Girls shotput Lillian Reddy (34-5.5) shocked the conference with a personal best throw of nearly three-feet to place second all-time in Marblehead history, and is now fifth in the state this season after this toss.

Naomi Goodwin (20-9.5) was 16th, and Julia Betz (20-7.5) 17th to round out the Marblehead throwers.

Boys shotput Logan McRae-Hughes (40-3.25, third, personal best), Humphreys (37-5.25, seventh) and Graham Firestone (34-7.25, ninth) all came through with Top 10 finishes.

Girls mile Sophomore Ruby Assa (6:02.58) crossed the finish line in fourth place. Junior Jesslyn Roemer (6:26.86) ended up sixth, and freshmen Sophia Letwin (6:34.72) and Ginny Donato (6:39.12) came in 11th and 13th, respectively.

Boys mile Senior Henrik Adams (4:47.79) closed fast to almost snag second from Peabody.

Adams was followed closely by classmates Will Cruikshank (4:50.99, two-second personal best, fourth) and Zach Pike (4:51.90, sixth), and as a result all three ended up within five seconds of each other.

Junior Filip Grubor (4:52.24, eight second personal best, seventh) finished under five minutes for the first time.

Girls 1,000 Junior Sarah Munroe (3:11.82, eight second personal best, third), sophomore Norah Walsh (3:22.35, 23-second personal best, fifth) and classmate Evie Becker (3:41.78, 10th) were three more Top 10 performers for the Magicians.

Boys 1,000 Freshman Isaac Durand (3:01.76, third) and junior Owen Harrison (3:32.91, seven second personal best) completed the course for Marblehead.

Girls 600 Stepping down from her normal distance events was not a problem for senior Marri O’Connell (1:47.05), who still finished on top with the third fastest time in Division 3, and is also among the Top 20 in the state to date.

Miller (1:54.47), who has had some lingering injury issues since last spring, toughed it out to finish fifth. Freshman Nadia Siragusa (2:08.10) placed 16th in her varsity debut.

Boys 600 Sophomore Victor Pechhold (1:37.55) accounted for a fourth-place finish. Junior

Felix Rengault (1:43.96) ended up 11th.

Girls 300 Lucy Flynn (42.78, two-second personal best, first) ran away from the competition with the sixth fastest time in the state, and is second among the juniors. Julia Thomson (50.80, 12th) and Elisabeth Greely (53.24, 20th) also ran this sprint for Marblehead.

Boys 300 Eben Weed (37.72, personal best, third), Slater Johnson (40.39, eighth) and Cole Barbeau (44.75, 18th) were the Top 3 Marblehead runners in this event.

Girls 55-meter dash Flynn (7.51, personal best) also sped away from the dashers to secure her second win of the day. She is now second on the school’s all-time list, and is eighth in the state, as well as second among juniors.

Sophomore Zoe Dwyer (7.93, sixth), Cora Gerson (8.13, personal best, eighth) and Sydney Moniz (8.66, 20th, varsity debut) enjoyed Top 20 finishes. “Cora has battled injuries the past couple of seasons, but will continue to improve as the season progresses,” said Raimo.

Boys 55-meter dash Owen Coyne (6.97) opened up the season with a sixth-place finish, while nearly missing his personal best time of 6.92. Nate Selby (6.99, ninth) stumbled out of the blocks, but recovered in time to still run a quality race. Ethan Harwood (7.28, 20th) and Harrison Carpineto (7.75, 26th) also participated in the dash.

Girls 55-meter hurdles Charlotte Hodgkinson (11.66) led the way for Marblehead to finish 15th overall.

She was followed by Charlotte Greten (17th, 12.04), Addison Rotigliano (18th, 12.05) and Faith Apostolopoulos (19th, 12.07).

Boys 55-meter hurdles Nate Jendrysik (8.41, personal best) took the early-season crown for best hurdler in the conference. Noah Jackson (8.57) was fourth. Elian Colon (9.27), the team’s multi-threat jumper and hurdler, came in fifth. Sophomore Theo Benning (11.53) ended up 16th.

Girls 4x400 relay Liv Carlson, Olivia Vanden Heuvel, Sabrina Perez and Sophie Bacon (4:47.84) captured the bronze.

Boys 4x400 relay Owen Casale, Jack Brousse, Miles Oswald and Grady Becker (4:10.69) finished sixth overall.

Girls 4x200 relay In one of the most exciting races of the day, Dwyer, Hodgkinson, Thomson and Flynn won this relay in 1:55.25.

Boys 4x200 relay Voeuncenzo Vorn, Chakib Khelladi, Dylan Glass and Noah Smerka (1:45.65) combined to put together a quality run to finish fifth.

4x800 girls relay Walsh, Assa, Donato and Munroe (10:58.64) accounted for a close second place finish.

4x800 boys relay When the lead runners came around for the first handoff, there was some confusion by the officials that resulted in the Beverly lead runner taking an extra lap, while all the other runners had to scramble in the exchange zone. Two runners, including Marblehead’s Zach Pike, came to a full stop shortly after receiving the baton, because they were unsure of what was happening. But once everything got straightened out, and Pike had possession of the baton from Adams, Marblehead was able to cruise to victory in 9:11.86, with Grubor and Cruikshank running the final two legs of the relay to seal the deal.

MHS VARSITY SCHEDULES Boys hockey: Masconomet 7, Marblehead Sunday, Dec. 21 Boys basketball: Marblehead 57, Bishop Fenwick 36 TEAM RECORDS (THROUGH DEC. 21) Boys basketball: 4-1 Girls basketball: 2-1 Girls gymnastics: 1-0 Boys hockey: 0-3 Girls hockey: 1-3 Co-ed swimming: 1-0 Boys wrestling: 0-2 Boys track: 0-1 Girls track: 1-0

Friday, Dec. 26 5 p.m.: boys hockey vs.

Medfield at O’Maley-Talbot Rink, Gloucester Saturday, Dec. 27 TBD: boys hockey vs. TBD at O’Maley-Talbot Rink, Gloucester 9 a.m.: boys wrestling at Pentucket High School gym, West Newbury Sunday, Dec. 28 10:30 a.m.: girls hockey vs. Barnstable at Salem State Rockett Arena Monday, Dec. 29 9:30 a.m.: boys and girls

indoor track, NEC Freshmen-Sophomore Meet at Gloucester High gym Wednesday, Dec. 31 11 a.m.: boys hockey vs.

Pembroke at Hobomock Ice Arena, Pembroke 12:30 p.m.: girls hockey vs.

Bishop Fenwick at Salem State Rockett Arena Saturday, Jan. 3 10 a.m.: boys wrestling at MHS gym 4 p.m.: girls hockey vs.

Peabody at McVannO’Keefe Rink, Peabody 6 p.m.: boys hockey vs.

Gloucester at O’MaleyTalbot Rink, Gloucester Monday, Jan. 5 6:30 p.m.: girls basketball vs. Masconomet at Masconomet gym 7 p.m.: boys basketball vs.

Masconomet at MHS gym Tuesday, Jan. 6 5:30 p.m.: co-ed ski at Ski Ward Ski Area, Shrewsbury 6:30 p.m.: co-ed swimming vs.

Danvers at St. John’s Prep wellness center, Danvers Wednesday, Jan. 7 6 p.m.: girls hockey vs.

Gloucester at O’MaleyTalbot Rink, Gloucester

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 11

CURRENT EVENTS

Marblehead’s best bets

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

—Leigh Blander

Guy Ford Band for DAV Saturday, Dec. 27, 7 p.m.

Come rock out to the Guy Ford Band in The Bunker at the VFW, 321 West Shore Drive. The show benefits the Disabled American Veterans of Massachusetts. Open to all.

Movies and Musings

New Year’s Day Resolution Bracelet Workshop

Monday, Jan. 5, 6-8:30 p.m.

At Abbot Library, this month’s Movies and Musings film is “The Wizard of Oz.” Come watch this classic with Marblehead’s resident film critic Marc Wortman. Wortman is a graduate of Northwestern University Film School, a documentary filmmaker and a New England newspaper film critic.

Thursday, Jan. 1, sessions run 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Kick off New Year’s Day with creativity and purpose at a Resolution Bracelet Workshop at EOS Design. Start 2026

by choosing gemstones and symbolic charms that represent your goals — whether you’re aiming for healthier habits, better balance, new adventures, financial growth or a renewed creative spirit.

Registration required, $10 workshop fee plus materials (typically $5-12).

Register at eosdesignsstudio.com.

Mystery Book Club Tuesday, Dec. 30, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Abbot Library’s Mystery Book Club will discuss “Long Bright River” by Liz Moore. Copies are available to check out at the library’s main desk. Registration is required at abbotlibrary.org/events

HIGH NOTES

MHS students play holiday favorites at Winter Concert

BY LEIGH BLANDER

COURTESY PHOTOS / TANYA BRAGANTI

Marblehead High musicians hit all the right notes at their Winter Concert on Dec. 17 at the Veterans School Performing Arts Center. Students from the jazz and concert bands, as well as strings ensemble, orchestra and treble and mix choirs performed.

Some of the holiday favorites performed included “Greensleeves,” “Ukrainian Bell Carol,” “African Noel” and “Hannukah, Festival of Lights.”

MHS musicians have several more concerts planned through the winter and spring.

INFORMAL PROBATE PUBLICATION NOTICE Docket No. ES25P3443EA Commonwealth of Massachusetts The Trial Court Essex Division Probate and Family Court Estate of: Mary Eleanor King Date of Death: September 6, 2025 To all persons interested in the above captioned estate by Petition of Petitioner Michael V. Pacheco of Henniker, NH A Will has been admitted to informal probate. Michael V. Pacheco of Henniker, NH has been informally appointed as the Personal Representative of the estate to serve without surety on the bond.

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

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marbleheadcurrent.org

12 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

ELECTRIC BICYCLES

Traffic Safety chair: Don’t buy your kids e-bikes ‘that can go that fast’

BY LUCA TEDESCO The Marblehead Traffic Safety Advisory Committee continued its discussion of e-bike safety in its monthly meeting on Dec. 15.

“Everyone sees this as an issue,” said TSAC Chair Rick Smyers. “Pretty consistently, people recognize that e-bikes, when used improperly, can be a risk.”

Concerns around electric bicycles have mounted in recent weeks after a 13 year old died crashing his e-bike into a car in Stoneham and a Hamilton woman was hospitalized after the horse she was riding was spooked by an e-bike. The horse had to be put down.

“When young people are on bikes, they don’t understand the bike laws in general,” said Marblehead Police Chief Dennis King. “When you add unlimited power and you don’t slow down, it’s a recipe for disaster.”

While Smyers acknowledged the benefits of electric bicycles, he noted that “many of the kids who are riding e-bikes these days in Marblehead are not even street legal. They’re [motorized

E-bike safety is still a hot topic in town, but it won’t be debated at Town Meeting.

bicycles] that can go 40-50 miles per hour.”

While TSAC and MPD released an e-bike safety statement last month, Smyers implored parents to be more cautious when purchasing one of the vehicles.

“To the parents, don’t buy your kids bikes that can go that

fast,” said Smyers. “It’s just not safe.”

King added that many of the e-bikes being ridden by children are actually considered motorized bicycles which require the user to be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s licence or learner’s permit to

COURTESY PHOTO

operate.

No e-bike vote at Town Meeting The committee chose to table the proposal of a bylaw surrounding e-bikes until the Commonwealth’s Special Commission on Micromobility

finalized their report at the end of next month.

Other points of discussion for TSAC were the installation of flashing pedestrian beacons at the following intersections: West Shore drive and Jersey streets, Atlantic Avenue and Smith S Street, and Lafayette Street near Birch Street.

Additional signs are planned along Atlantic Avenue at Gerry Street and the Jewish Community Center as well as near Tedesco Country Club.

Town Engineer Maggie Wheeler announced a plan for a sidewalk reprofiling project along Pleasant Street between Hewitt Gerry streets. The project will add eight-10 new ADA sidewalk ramps in the area.

DPW Director Amy McHugh also announced that the town is under contract to implement the blue light snow emergency system. Eight lights will be placed in locations around town and will become the primary system to alert the public of a snow emergency situation.

The next TSAC meeting is set for Jan. 12, 4 p.m. at Abbot Hall.

HOLIDAY GIVING

Havens Toy Drive collects more than 700 gifts for kids in need

BY LEIGH BLANDER Last week, Marblehead firefighters delivered toys to hundreds of kids across the North Shore, thanks to the second annual Michael Havens Toy Drive.

People donated more than 700 toys to the drive, including microscopes, music, basketballs, games, puzzles and more.

The event honors Michael Havens, who organized a toy drive at the Gerry 5. He passed away in 2021, and last year his brother, Curt, restarted the

tradition in his honor.

“My brother would be so happy that this tradition is continuing without him,” said Curt Havens, co-owner of The Beacon Restaurant.

Added Beacon co-owner Johnny Ray, “It’s a big haul and shows the generosity of Marbleheaders.”

Firefighter Tim Cronin was at The Beacon Restaurant on Dec. 15, collecting all the toys to deliver to Girls Inc., St. Joseph’s Church and Catholic Charities, which will distribute them to kids in need across the North Shore.

. CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

The Beacon Restaurant co-owners Curt Havens, left, and Johnny Ray stand with Marblehead Firefighter Tim Cronin before they load more than 700 toys into a truck to deliver to kids in need

Local students sang traditional Hanukkah songs at the menorah lighting.

Menorah

CURRENT PHOTOS / LEIGH BLANDER

Kids lined up for the Hanukkah treat sufganiyot (jelly donuts) at the menorah lighting.

From P. 1 We don’t keep it for ourselves; we share it with our friends, our families, our community and the world.”

Mangold added, “So, during these dark times, we think about how we may share our light, through acts of loving kindness and mitzvot. Think about one way you can share your light with others. Reaching out to someone in need.

Giving tzedakah (charity).

Visiting someone who is sick.

Checking up on someone who is in mourning. Extending compassion and patience to those who are struggling.

Expressing gratitude and praise for someone you love. There are so many ways to shine our light.”

In his remarks, Rabbi Michael Schwartz of Temple Sinai referenced the recent mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia.

“Just like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, only light can drive out the dark; only love can drive

out the hate,” he said. “And on this Hanukkah, we all might be fearful, but you know, we’re all a little afraid of the dark. But what does the light do? It drives away the darkness. Fear is only overcome by one thing: hope. On that note, let’s all truly now say Happy Hanukkah.”

The program was sponsored by Temple Emanu-El, Temple Sinai, Epstein-Hillel Academy, JCC of the North Shore and National Grand Bank, all in Marblehead, and Congregation Shirat Hayam of Swampscott.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 13

Headlight

Written by the students of Marblehead High School for our school and community 2025-2026 Issue

www.mhsheadlight.com

December 24, 2025

Why I'd recommend AP Art History Anna Cruikshank, Assistant Editor, Sophomore Before taking AP Art History, taught by Ms. Shirley Huller-White, I thought I had a pretty strong understanding of art. I had been exposed mostly to well-known Western paintings and sculptures, the kinds of works you usually associate with museums in Europe or the United States. While I appreciated them, my idea of art was limited to what I already knew and what I had made myself. AP Art History has expanded that perspective and challenged the way I think about what art is, what it can do, and why art matters. It has become the most meaningful class I’ve taken in high school and one I would recommend to anyone.

One of the most impactful aspects of AP Art History has been learning about non-Western art traditions. Studying works from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Islamic world showed me even more that art is deeply tied to culture, religion, politics, and daily life. For example, learning about African, Pacific, and Indigenous American artworks and architecture helped me understand how art from all over has different functions and symbols. Works from the AP Art History collection of 250 were meant to be worn, used in ceremonies, or passed down through generations, not just looked at. Some of my favorite works are ones I would never have known about if I didn't take this class: Ndop, Kongo peoples’ Power Figure, the Lakshmana Temple, and Marshall Islands Navigation chart, to name a few.

AP Art History also pushes me to slow down and truly look at art. Instead of glancing at an image and moving on, I’m learning how to analyze details like scale, material, and context. When we studied architecture from different cultures, I began to notice how

buildings communicate power, spirituality, and identity. Learning why certain structures were built the way they were helped me understand how art reflects the values of the society that created it. These skills have stayed with me beyond the classroom when traveling and in everyday landscapes.

As someone who makes art myself, this class has had a direct impact on my creative process. I now think much more intentionally about the choices I make. Studying art from nonWestern cultures inspired me to experiment with new materials and techniques instead of sticking to what felt familiar. Rather than focusing only on making something visually pleasing, I ask myself what message I’m trying to communicate and how my choices support that idea.

Another thing I appreciate about AP Art History is how it connects art to larger historical and social themes. Learning about how art responds to colonization, religion, or political change made the subject feel relevant and real.

These discussions made class engaging and encouraged me to think critically about things I might overlook.

AP Art History has shown me that art exists everywhere and in many forms, not just in famous paintings we see reproduced in textbooks. Whether you plan to pursue art, history, or something completely different, AP Art History builds skills that are valuable for everyone. It has expanded my understanding of creativity and helped me grow both as a student and as an artist, and I’m incredibly glad I took the class.

An image of Lakshmana Temple in Khajuraho, India (image from Smart History's website)

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Grey Collins

Yearbook Information Yearbook Sales for Grades 9–11:

Make the year memorable with a Marblehead High School yearbook!

While the book highlights our seniors, it also includes class photos and feature pages for grades 9–11, plus coverage of clubs, school spirit, music, art, sports, and more. Purchase online with a credit card, debit card, or PayPal at yearbookforever.com.

Yearbook Costs:

$70 through December 31 $75 through January 22 (Senior yearbooks are covered by class dues.)

Please email Leah Bordieri (bordieri.leah@marbleheadschools.org) or Caitlin Fields (fields.caitlin@marbleheadschools.org) with any questions.

Student leaders unveil new MAGIC Coalition Grey Collins, Editor-in-Chief, Senior

During Marblehead HIgh School’s afternoon Magic block last Thursday, the leaders of the Marblehead High School’s new Coalition for Growth, Inclusion, and Connection (MAGIC) presented their new group and their ambitious goals to the student body in the MHS auditorium.

“The event today went well," said co-founder and Junior Class President Max Kane, who spoke at the event on Thursday.

“With our coalition still developing, the main goal of this meeting was to announce our existence to our school.” The idea for the group was born on October 7, when hateful vandalism in a high school bathroom inspired a group of high schoolers to act to reduce the normalization of hate in the student body. After Michael Labossiere, a student representative for the School Advisory Council, heard about the anti-semitic graffiti in the high school bathrooms, he had the idea to form the coalition.

“Things like this have been happening for three to four years, all the way back to Vets (Veterans Middle School), so I think this time it was a big wake up call for me,” said Labossiere, the co-founder and co-organizer of MAGIC. Michael got to work with fellow organizers Max Kane, Laurel Kearny, Max Karlyn, and Lucy Molinari in brainstorming this new group. They worked together to make a plan, and hosted a meeting with members of student leadership clubs such as GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance),

Team Harmony, JSU (Jewish Student Union), Interact Club, the Student Council, and the Class Officers of all four MHS classes to make it happen.

“We wanted to start this movement because we understand the effects hate has on our community,” said Kane. “We understand that these hateful words and actions come from many students, but not because they truly hate the people their jokes are about. In most cases, it comes from a lack of education about what these things actually mean, and how joking about them can make someone feel.” The MAGIC coalition is hoping to promote education about these topics in an effort to limit the spread and normalization of hate in the high school community.

“Our mission is to increase knowledge on human connection and educate those who may not know the significance of hateful symbols, actions, and words,” said Kane. “We want to help the people who are discriminated against feel safe, respected, and appreciated, and we want to help the ones who discriminate realize that what they say matters, and can really damage another person’s well-being.” Kane thinks that the meeting was a good start, but there’s still a lot more work to be done. He thinks they have a real chance to make a difference in this MHS community.

“Today was the first step in this end goal, and the Marblehead Coalition for Growth, Inclusion, and Connection will continue to grow our cause and help every individual of our school, regardless of personal characteristics,” said Kane.

Headlight Staff 2025 - 2026

ASSISTANT EDITORS: Evan Eisen, Anna Cruikshank, Georgia Marshall REPORTERS: Maya Berman, Piper Browning, Nathaniel Carper-Young, Madeline Duffy, Teagan Freedman, Maximilian Kane, Sophie Li, Eve Magen, Mary Prindiville SOCIAL MEDIA: Anna Baughman

FACULTY ADVISOR: Mr. Higgins

marbleheadcurrent.org

14 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

OBITUARY

nurse anesthetist — a calling she pursued with unwavering

dedication. Through her work, she brought comfort and calm to patients during their most vulnerable moments, earning the respect and gratitude of all who were in her care.

An avid outdoorswoman, Karen truly lived life in motion.

Whether carving elegant turns through fresh snow or catching the wind while sailing, she embraced every adventure with boundless enthusiasm.

It was this love for the water that brought her to meet her husband, Jerry, while sailing on the Charles River — beginning

a beautiful partnership that spanned four decades.

In Marblehead, Karen became an integral part of the local community. A passionate pickleball player, she was admired not only for her competitive spirit but for the warmth, humor and joy she brought to every game.

To her many friends, she was a steady source of light — her conversations often ending with words of love and encouragement.

Karen was the devoted wife of Jerry Yoffa and the proud, loving

mother of Michael. Her presence will be profoundly missed by her family, her friends and the countless lives she touched throughout her remarkable career and life.

A memorial service to celebrate Karen’s life will be held on Monday, Dec. 22, at 1 p.m. Arrangements are being handled by Stanetsky-Hymanson Memorial Chapel, Salem (Dignity Memorial), please visit stanetskyhymansonsalem.com, where friends and family are invited to share memories and offer condolences.

from Salem State College.

A beloved teacher in the Peabody Public School District for 40 years, Helen spent most of her years at the Carroll School alongside exceptional teachers, many of whom became lifelong

friends. Helen possessed a deeply compassionate spirit and found her greatest joy in the company of her family and friends. The Curtin home was “Party Central” for countless social events and the door was always open to everyone.

A woman of strong faith, Helen volunteered and supported many charitable organizations and was always ready to help people in need. She had a passion for literature and enjoyed many “book chats” with her grandchildren in addition to the friendship of her book club ladies. She never missed a game, match or performance of one of her children and, later, grandchildren along with their many graduation ceremonies from kindergarten to graduate

school.

Helen is survived by her husband Dr. Patrick Curtin of Salem; their three children Tim Curtin and wife Jody of Danvers, Mary Jackson and husband Brad of Beverly, and Dr. Matt Curtin and wife Laurie of Beverly; brother Joseph Reilly; sister Maryann “Penny” Lemelin and brother-in-law Robert, and sister-in-law Gail Reilly; as well as her grandchildren Andrew and Carolyn Curtin, Ryan, Mia and Owen Jackson, Emma, Meghan and Annie Curtin, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. She was predeceased by her brother Jack Reilly, sister-in-law Judy Reilly and nephew Jeffrey Reilly.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Helen’s funeral

Mass which will be held at Our Lady, Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead on Saturday, Dec. 27 at 10:30 a.m. followed by her burial in Star of the Sea Cemetery, Marblehead (Please meet directly at church.) Visiting hours will be held at O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) Salem on Friday, Dec. 26 from 4 to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Helen’s memory may be made to My Brother’s Table (mybrotherstable.org) or the Kaplan Family Hospice House (caredimensions. org). To read Helen’s full life story, share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit odonnellfuneralservice.com.

Karen Yoffa Karen Yoffa, a beloved resident of Marblehead for 36 years, passed away peacefully in early December. She leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, vibrant spirit and the enduring love of a community deeply touched by her kindness.

Born and raised in Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania, Karen was known from an early age for her keen intellect and naturally gentle nature. These gifts guided her into a fulfilling career as a

Helen Reilly Curtin Helen Reilly Curtin, fondly known as “Muffet,” passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Dec. 19.

Helen was married to Dr. Patrick H. Curtin, and they shared 61 beautiful years of marriage together. Helen was born at the Mary Alley Hospital in Marblehead. She was the daughter of the late Mary Dooling Reilly and John F. Reilly of Marblehead. She was a graduate of St. James High School (Salem), Merrimack College (bachelor of arts in early education) and received her master’s degree in education

WHAT’S YOUR JOB?

Translating those plaques on Historic District homes

BY KAY O’DWYER Walking the streets of downtown Marblehead, the observant stroller may notice a plaque with a date and some text on many houses. Frequently, these plaques will indicate that a fisherman or mariner or ship captain once resided there.

This is not very surprising; after all, the first permanent European settlers in 1629 were intrepid seafaring folk. Many subsequent settlers were also attracted to Marblehead because of the safe harbor and bountiful seas. Fishing and shipping were the foundation of the economy in the 16th and 17th centuries. Indeed, Marblehead was considered to be the fishing capital of the northern colonies.

However, the observant pedestrian will also notice plaques that refer to less obvious occupations of the colonial inhabitants. In order to sustain a town in colonial times, absent the ubiquitous, ready-made, promptly delivered, massproduced goods of the 21st century, a vast array of trades and skills were essential to support the town.

So, what types of work did these colonial artisans do? Some of these trades that are unfamiliar to us were critical in the life of an 18th-century town. Obviously, a rope maker or a sailmaker contributed to the maritime business, and their products were self-explanatory in name. Sails and ropes or lines were crucial in fishing and shipping.

But what about a “shoreman,” whose name indicates that he may not have gone to sea?

Within the term shoreman or dockworker, there was a variety of work; some loaded and unloaded cargo for the many vessels docked in the harbor.

Schooners and brigs laden with salt, spices, wine, nails and tools populated the coves waiting to be unloaded. Sugar, tea, tobacco and manufactured goods were also among the cargo being unloaded by the shoremen. Some shoremen, in preparation for a voyage, were responsible for engaging the crew and equipping

COURTESY PHOTO / KAY O’DWYER

Photographs of plaques on historic homes around Marblehead.

the ship with supplies.

Additionally, when fishing vessels returned with their catch, shoremen could be involved in the process of curing and preserving the fish. Stretched along the shore were fish flakes or wooden racks for drying the fish, and fishing provided employment for the shoremen, though they themselves did not go to the sea.

After they dried and salted the fish, it was then stored in wooden barrels and made ready for trading. Mackerel and lowerquality fish were sent to the Caribbean, and the best cod was exported to Europe, particularly to Portugal and Spain.

Coopers crafted these barrels that were used to transport this dried fish and many other products. Barrels were the storage containers for rum and wine, and for dry goods ranging from flour to gunpowder.

A cooper in colonial times was kept exceedingly busy making firkins, hogsheads and casks for

use both at sea and at home.

Every house in town required a variety of wooden barrels, pails, butter churns and washtubs.

Typically, it was often a daily chore for the children to carry these wooden buckets to the water pump or a freshwater spring to keep their families supplied with fresh water.

Barrels that stored liquids needed to be created with great precision to be watertight.

Coopers shaped the wooden staves, often oak, to fit tightly together without any adhesives.

The wood was soaked in water so that it would expand to fill all gaps. Then, they girdled or encircled them with metal rings or hoops to make the barrels solid and watertight. Coopers played an important role in the local economy of colonial Marblehead.

Along with the shipmasters, shipwrights and fishermen, there were also many jobs that were not sea-dependent. One particularly unusual occupation is that of a cordwainer, and there

are quite a few plaques around town with that as the identified work; there is even one indicating that the house was built for four brothers who were all cordwainers. It is believed that Gen. John Glover was a cordwainer in his early days.

The term itself can be misleading because it was not at all related to making cord or twine. A cordwainer was a shoemaker who specialized in crafting new shoes from leather.

This was unlike a cobbler, who typically repaired shoes. The term “cordwainer” is derived from the high-quality leather or cordovan that came from Cordoba in Spain.

Over the centuries since, it seems that the work of the cordwainer and cobbler became interchangeable, and then “shoemaker” became the general term for crafting and repairing shoes. Indeed, many fishermen became shoemakers, which provided them with an income when adverse weather or war prevented them from taking to the sea.

The tradition of shoemaking became even more widespread in the 18th century, with women and children involved in sewing the uppers while men completed the shoes in small one-room workshops referred to as “10-footers.”

Shoemaking certainly provided employment to many Marbleheaders, and the house plaques reflect this with a significant number identifying the residence of a cordwainer in the colonial era.

The walls may not quite talk, but the house plaques around town do reveal a little about life and work in colonial Marblehead.

So, on your next stroll around town, have a look at the plaques, and perhaps you will find an unusual occupation or maybe multiple examples of common jobs in the 17th century.

Enjoy your walk!

Kay O’Dwyer is a history teacher, docent at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion and member of the Glover’s Marblehead Regiment. She has always been deeply interested in history.

marbleheadcurrent.org

Marblehead Current Wednesday, December 24, 2025 15

POLICE LOG

Snowy Sunday sees several accidents, including one involving police cruiser Saturday, Dec. 13

» Alarms: 2 » 911 hang-ups: 3 » Property checks: 7 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 1 9:01 a.m. An officer assisted with a disabled vehicle on Beacon and Green streets.

11:01 a.m. An officer investigated a report of lost or found property on Atlantic Avenue and filed a report.

1:26 p.m. An officer investigated a report of lost or found property on Prospect Court and filed a report.

11:21 p.m. An officer investigated the report of a hitand-run in the parking lot of the VFW on West Shore Drive. Upon his arrival, the officer found a man standing by his Ford Bronco, which had just been struck by somebody backing out of a parking spot adjacent to his.

The Bronco’s right front bumper had been cracked from the collision. The officer then spoke to a witness who had managed to take a photo of the striking vehicle’s license plate. The witness said that the striking vehicle had backed up, struck the Bronco, sat there for about 10 seconds and then left the scene.

The officer tried to call the striking vehicle’s owner but did not get an answer immediately.

Sunday, Dec. 14

» Alarms: 3 » 911 hang-ups: 0 » Property checks: 22 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 12:50 p.m. An officer was dispatched to investigate a report of vandalism to a car.

He was met by a woman who explained that she believed someone had keyed her car, a white Mercedes. She began pointing out different areas of the car. The officer observed and photographed scuff marks on the rear driver side door, the rear left bumper, the rear passenger door and by the gas tank. The woman stated that she had noticed the key marks around 12:45 p.m. when she went out to clean the snow off her and her neighbor’s cars. The officer asked when she had used her vehicle before she noticed the marks, and she replied around noon the previous day.

The officer drove around the woman’s building and another nearby one but could not locate any cameras.

1:13 p.m. An officer went to Atlantic Avenue to investigate a report of a vehicle hit-andrun involving property damage.

He was met by a woman whose vehicle had been struck while parked, incurring damage to the front left bumper. The woman said that a witness had approached her and told her that the striking vehicle was a

red Toyota Camry. The officer looked at the nearby storefronts but did not see any surveillance cameras on them.

5:34 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash reported on Beacon Street.

5:49 p.m. An officer responded to the scene of a vehicle crash reported on Norman Street and Hines Court.

6:29 p.m. An officer was responding to a non-emergency call on Reed Street. The temperature was below freezing, it was snowing, and Reed Street had not yet been sanded. The officer was driving slowly, looking for house numbers, and then, as he put his vehicle in park, it began sliding backwards.

The officer tried to put his vehicle back in gear but was unable to get the vehicle to stop before it struck a legally parked Jeep, causing damage to the Jeep’s front driver side and the cruiser’s passenger side. The officer called another officer to respond to the scene. The second officer observed that Reed Street, which is a steep hill, was covered in about an inch of packed snow. The street was so slippery that, in order to make his way down the hill to speak to the second officer, the first officer “actually slid the entire way down on his feet as if he were on skis,” according to the officer’s report. The first officer recounted how the accident had occurred, and the second officer observed tire impressions in the snow that were consistent with the first officer’s account. The officers made the Jeep’s owner aware of the damage to his vehicle, and he too commented on how slippery the street was, according to the officer’s report.

The second officer asked the Department of Public Works to treat the street. Both vehicles remained driveable.

6:57 p.m. An officer investigated a report of a vehicle crash on Girdler Road.

7:53 p.m. A caller on Wyman Road reported having lost an Apple Watch.

8:17 p.m. Officers investigated a complaint related to a moving vehicle on Lafayette and Maple streets.

Monday, Dec. 15

» Alarms: 2 » 911 hang-ups: 1 » Property checks: 18 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 3 11:08 a.m. A wallet was found on Pleasant Street.

4:17 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Martin Street and filed a report.

4:42 p.m. A vehicle was towed after a traffic stop on Devereux Terrace.

5 p.m. An officer, firefighters and an ambulance crew responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Humphrey

Street.

Tuesday, Dec. 16

» Alarms: 0 » 911 hang-ups: 1 » Property checks: 4 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 1 7:41 a.m. Officers responded to the scene of a vehicle crash on Pleasant Street and filed an accident report.

8:34 a.m. Officers investigated a report that a truck had taken down a pole, which was now snapped in half on Smith and Pleasant streets. The officers confirmed the report, photographing the snapped pole, which was causing the wires to hang low and creating a hazard.

A witness then came forward to say that a large white box truck with an orange cab and no markings had struck the pole.

A description of the vehicle was put out to other officers, but no one was able to locate the vehicle. A short while later, Verizon arrived on scene and started working to fix the pole.

An officer later followed a lead, possibly identifying the truck, getting from a dispatcher the name of a driver who had been in the area. However, the driver said he had not hit anything with his truck and sent the officer photos of his truck, which did not seem to have any damage to it. The officer was later able to make contact by phone with a witness who had been driving several vehicles behind the box truck, which he had observed trying to go around a vehicle that was waiting to turn left and strike the pole.

8:45 a.m. A caller on Village Street reported having received annoying phone calls.

11:30 a.m. An officer spoke by phone with a woman who reported a possible past breaking-and-entering to her home. She said that she had last been home at 4 a.m. the previous Saturday, when she was picked up by an airport shuttle. She had armed her security system and received a confirmation text that the system was on.

When she returned home about an hour earlier on Tuesday, she noticed that when she opened her door, the security system did not “beep,” which made her believe someone had entered her home. She reported that around $10,000 in cash and some memorabilia picture items were missing. The officer asked if there were any signs of forced

entry, and she said there were not. The woman reported that there were no cameras on her property, that nobody knows her security code and that she lives alone. She had reported the incident to the security system company as well. The woman called the police station again around 12:35 p.m. and reported that the security company was reporting that it was a “faulty system failure.” She said she would be filing a claim with the security company and just wanted a police report on file.

12:15 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Devereux Street and filed a report.

1:02 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Devereux Street and filed a report.

1:31 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Ocean Avenue and filed a report.

2:38 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Lafayette Street and filed a report.

Wednesday, Dec. 17

» Alarms: 3 » 911 hang-ups: 2 » Property checks: 3 » Vehicle stops, citations: 1 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 0 10:40 a.m. A vehicle crash was reported on Atlantic Avenue.

12:27 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Devereux Street and filed a report.

1:47 p.m. An officer investigated the report of a vehicle crash on Atlantic Avenue and filed a report.

3:12 p.m. An officer investigated a report of suspicious activity on Front Street.

3:27 p.m. A complaint about a moving vehicle on Ocean Avenue proved to be unfounded.

7:08 p.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Rowland Street and filed a report.

Thursday, Dec. 18

» Alarms: 0 » 911 hang-ups: 0 » Property checks: 7 » Vehicle stops, citations: 0 » Vehicle stops, verbal warnings: 2 9:11 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Pond Street.

9:44 a.m. An officer investigated a general complaint on Broughton Road and filed a report.

10:53 a.m. An officer spoke in the police station lobby with a woman who was in an ongoing dispute with a landscaping company over whether a fall cleanup had been done on her property. In the ensuing text message conversation, the landscaper threatened to

return to the woman’s property to empty a dump truck full of leaves, claiming that he had recently done the same thing with another “tough customer” who “sure is regretting she didn’t pay me.” The woman reiterated that she had sent the landscaper photographs that proved that the leaves in her yard had not been picked up.

She also warned the landscaper that, if he did dump leaves on her property, her security cameras would document it.

The officer asked the woman if there was any chance she could be mistaken about the work being done, and she said no. He recommended that she issue a no-trespass notice to the landscaper, and she agreed. The officer later attempted to speak with the landscaper, but after about 30 seconds the landscaper interrupted him. The officer told the landscaper that he was being verbally” no trespassed” and that entering the woman’s property could lead to his arrest. The landscaper said that he was not going to spread the leaves but would have one of his workers do it for him. The officer tried to tell the landscaper that they were also not allowed on the property, but the landscaper hung up the phone. The officer told the woman that he would document the incident and advised her to have no further contact with the landscaper or his company. He also advised her to let the Police Department know if anything else happened.

11:36 a.m. An officer investigated a report of larceny, forgery or fraud on Victoria Lane.

1:21 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Beverly Avenue and filed a report.

1:47 p.m. An officer assisted a citizen on Village Street and filed a report.

9:10 p.m. Officers were dispatched to Intrepid Circle to investigate a resident’s report of an unknown man pounding on her door. Upon their arrival, there was no man at the door at that address. They were met at the front door by the woman who had called the police, who explained that it had been her neighbor who had been knocking at the door. She showed the officer video from a Ring camera of a man ringing the doorbell for approximately 10 minutes. The woman explained that she had just moved to Intrepid Circle and had found the neighbors loud. She had been leaving notes on their door about the noise. The officers then went next door, where the neighbor explained that he had been ringing on the doorbell because he wanted to speak with his new neighbor about the notes. The officers asked the man not to ring the doorbell anymore.

PAWS & CLAWS

Pringles makes strong first impression BREED: Domestic Short Hair SIZE: Medium AGE: Adult SEX: Male “With his soft tabby fur, soulful eyes, and a heart as warm as his purrs, we would like to introduce you to Pringles,” said volunteers at the Marblehead Animal Shelter.

Pringles is new to the shelter, “but he seems like he is going to be one that melts your heart,” volunteers said.

Pringles is up to date with routine shots, house trained and neutered.

If you are interested in meeting Pringles or any of the other animals at the shelter, you must fill out an adoption application at marblehead-animal-shelter.org.

Pringles is a new arrival at the Marblehead Animal Shelter.

COURTESY PHOTO

marbleheadcurrent.org

16 Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Marblehead Current

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