07.12.23 - Volume 1, Issue 33

Board places hold on volunteer positions

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

The Marblehead Select Board has placed a four-month hold on reappointing over 100 volunteers to commissions, committees and boards — including the Finance Committee — signaling a shift in approach and break from the precedent following the June 20 election that unseated longterm

SAIlING

member Jackie Belf-Becker and replaced her with Bret Murray.

Murray’s motion for the hold passed on a 4-to-1 vote, with Select Board members Erin Noonan, Moses Grader and Alexa Singer in the affirmative. Select Board member Jim Nye was the lone dissent.

“This will hold the existing volunteers until Nov. 1,” Murray

said. “It’s not to say those people won’t be reappointed.”

The pause buys time for the Select Board to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of Marblehead’s Select Baord-appointed volunteer boards, committees and commissions and its reappointment process. The decision represents a

distinct departure from the board’s traditional practice of making reappointments and appointments fewer than 24 hours after the annual town election.

“You get elected on Tuesday, and then Wednesday, you’re expected to come in and, in return, vote on all these boards,” Murray said during a 45-minute

Comradery, competition highlight a 70-boat start of Marblehead-to-Halifax race

discussion on this topic alone. “I just don’t think that’s fair to anybody having been just elected.”

Although Grader voted in favor, he disagreed with the fourmonth pause.

“I am very much in favor of the Select Board’s seeking to

SCHOOl COMMITTEE

User fees upped for freshman sports

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Freshman sports will be played this fall, after the School Committee approved an increase in Marblehead High School user fees to fund the program. User fees for students participating in athletics or performing arts are now $495 for the 2023-24 school year, a $12 increase over the previously-announced fee.

“I’m not going to take access away from a couple hundred kids for $12,” said School Committee Chair Sarah Fox.

The committee advised Superintendent John Buckey to alert MHS Athletics Director Greg Ceglarski that freshman sports will be happening.

“That’s good news,” said committee member Jenn Schaeffner.

Weather, wind and tide create an exciting mix of challenges for competition

BY LAURIE FULLERTON

The 39th biennial Marblehead-toHalifax race featured a spectacular start with brightly colored spinnaker sails outside Marblehead Harbor on July 9. Up to 600 sailors on 70 boats in 11 fleets sailed downwind and made a turn off Tinker’s Island, setting course for Halifax, Nova Scotia.

A large spectator fleet on land at Castle Rock and offshore in a flotilla of boats got a chance to see some very close racing from the starting gun, and sailors in every fleet talked about the excitement and desire to return to the competitive and challenging 363-nautical-mile course.

The fleet included Naval midshipmen, cadets and young sailors from up and down the Eastern seaboard and Canada, as well as

BY LEIGH BLANDER

I have wanted to be a news reporter since I was a kid carrying a notebook around my neighborhood and on my school playground, jotting down interesting things people were doing and saying.

veteran teams who joined to do one of their favorite ocean races. Sailors from as far away as Europe and Australia competed.

As of press time, in the ORR (Offshore Racing Rule) 1 class, the Reichel Pugh 66 Kodiak, with the Naval Academy at Annapolis, was in first place ahead of Wahoo, the Kerr 50 also operated by midshipmen from the academy. Sailed by undergraduates ranging in age from 18 to 20, the race serves to train midshipmen to overcome challenges, adapt and gain experience. It is also a great way to learn about ocean racing. Each team is accompanied by one older adult coach.

Kodiak helmsman Javier Jimenez

Kane noted that his crew of 16 undergraduate young men and women included five seniors, six

Years later, journalism degree in hand, I launched into a career of reporting and producing in TV, radio and print newsrooms.

I have loved every minute of it. There have been so many important stories to tell: the fall of the Soviet Union (yes, I’m that old), presidential elections, terror attacks, climate change, social justice movements…

Before co-founding the Marblehead Current, all my

juniors and five freshmen.

“Being young we do very well sailing at night because we have a lot of energy and we are used to staying

previous journalism jobs were with for-profit networks and companies, and while I never felt pressured to cover a story in a certain way, I knew not all the news we wrote was helping people or advancing public discourse.

While at a Boston TV station, we covered the O.J. Simpson trial relentlessly to huge ratings. More and more, we focused on stories we knew would grab

Special Ed review

The committee also decided to invest some of a $500,000 surplus (from unpaid salaries of teachers who unexpectedly retired or resigned) to fund a review of the district’s special education program.

A note to our readers

Our next print issue will arrive on Aug. 2, allowing our staff a much-deserved respite. Until then, the news continues online!

Sign up to receive editions of the e-Current email newsletter on July 19 and July 26 at www.marbleheadcurrent.org/eCurrent, and follow us on social media:

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people’s attention, even if those stories didn’t inform or educate viewers. (I remember producing a two-minute TV story on plastic surgery for pets. It aired to big ratings across the country.)

As the internet became more popular and ad revenue started drying up for TV, radio and print outlets, I began to watch — with an increasingly broken heart — newsrooms shrink and, for many papers, close. There were more

and more layoffs, and a stronger focus on those sexy or divisive stories that would grab viewers’ attention.

It was truly distressing to watch an industry I had always revered — that is critical to our democracy — begin to wither away. That is why I am so passionate about the Current. Along with

Leigh Blander

CURRENT PHOTOS/ NICOLE GOODHUE BOYD

Boats line up in the ORR-3 class at the Marblehead-to-Halifax race, July 9.

The Merchant Marine Academy sails in the ORR-4 class.

RACE, P. A11

Boosters support MHS teams

BY MELISSA STACEY

The following is an interview with Marblehead All-Sports Boosters, conducted by Discover Marblehead. To learn more about the Boosters go to marbleheadboosters.org.

Tell us about Marblehead AllSports Boosters. The mission of the Boosters is to support the needs of all Marblehead High School’s athletic teams, to enhance and promote athletic achievement and school spirit, provide athletic scholarships for deserving student-athletes and to contribute to new ideas for athletic success. We bridge the gap between the athletic office and the needs of all the teams. We also provide scholarships to graduating student athletes.

Who runs the Boosters? The Boosters is run by a group of amazing volunteers of nearly 50 fabulous women! The executive board consists of Muffy Paquette (outgoing president), Mandy Caruso (incoming president), Kristen Jellison, Allie Donovan, Lauren Andriano and Kathy Doody.

What types of projects have the Boosters worked on?

Some of our bigger projects include a state-of-the-art fitness center, new tennis courts, a new snack shed and end zone netting. We also donate

things like swim caps, football helmets, volleyballs, etc. Our next mission is to raise the funds needed to replace the turf at Piper field. You can learn more about our projects by watching our “Boosters Through the Years” video at youtu. be/7ecPnUUzQMQ.

How can the community of

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

Bates College honors resident with service award

Marblehead resident Nate Walton was honored by Bates College with the Bruce Stangle Award for Distinguished Service during the college’s reunion last month. Walton was recognized for providing mentorship to Bates students and recent graduates through the college’s Purposeful Work internship program. Walton, a member of the Bates Class of 2008, is the founder and principal of Sachem Strategies, a consulting firm based in Boston.

Learn about America’s first hostage crisis

The Marblehead Museum will host its first Michael Smith Memorial Lecture on Thursday, July 20, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The lecture is free and will spotlight the new book, “Prisoners of the Bashaw: The Nineteen-Month Captivity of American Sailors in Tripoli, 1803-1805.”

Written by Frederick C. Leiner, a lawyer and historian of American maritime history, “Prisoners of the Bashaw” recounts America’s first significant hostage crisis and discusses naval warfare, diplomatic negotiations and survival during imprisonment.

This lecture honors the late Ambassador Michael Smith, reflecting his commitment to educating the public about significant historical events. To sign up, email jarrettzeman@ marbleheadmuseum.org.

Citizen Police Academy

The Marblehead Police Department, in collaboration

with the Council on Aging, is accepting applications for its eighth Citizen Police Academy. The fall session, which runs Sept. 8 through Nov. 3, will be held every Friday from 9 a.m.noon at the Council on Aging, 10 Humphrey St.

Participants will also have the opportunity to visit the Marblehead Police station and the Michael Ruane Judicial Center in Salem.

Interested Marblehead residents who are at least 18 years old can apply.Class size is limited and applicants are required to attend all sessions and submit to a Criminal

Marblehead become involved or help your mission? The community can help support our initiatives with financial support. Also, we’re always looking for help staffing the snack shed for athletic events. And of course, all are welcome to join our Boosters team! Please contact us with any questions you may have at mhdboosters@gmail.com.

What’s up next for the Boosters? This summer we’re kicking off our next big fundraiser. The lifespan of a turf field is typically 10 years, and we are currently beyond that at Marblehead High School. At a price tag of approximately $800,000 our goal is to raise the necessary funds to replace

the turf next summer (2024).

It’s the biggest project we’ve tackled to date. The turf is used for football, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, flag football, conditioning and so much more. We’re confident we can meet our goal with the support of the generous people in our community. Donations can be made at marbleheadboosters.org. The business spotlight is a weekly feature published in partnership with Discover Marblehead.

Discover Marblehead is dedicated to the promotion of our town. Our mission is to highlight local businesses, tourism, community events and attractions through socialmedia, email marketing and community outreach. To learn more, visit discovermhd.com.

Community Editor - Will Dowd

Consulting Editor - Kris Olson kolson@marbleheadnews.org

Associate Editor/Senior Reporter - Leigh Blander lblander@marbleheadnews.org

Sports ReporterJoe McConnell jmcconnell@marbleheadnews.org Intern - Claire Tips ctips@marbleheadnews.org CONTRIBUTORS

Offender Record Information (CORI) check. Learn more at bit. ly/46kKAwD.

Meet with state Rep. Armini

Marblehead state Rep. Jenny Armini will visit the Council on Aging on Thursday, July 27, at 11:30 a.m.

Vinyasa yoga with Celine

Join Celine this summer on the Abbot Public Library’s lawn for her outdoor community yoga classes. These vinyasastyle classes feature poses centered around stretching and strengthening the body,

connecting with the breath and creating energy to power you through the rest of your day. Grab a yoga mat or a towel and come find your flow. Please note: the library opens at 9:30 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. This program is sponsored by the Friends of Abbot Public Library.

Mondays, July 17, 24 and 31, 8 a.m. (before library hours)

Wednesday, July 12, 8 a.m. (before library hours)

» Wednesdays, July 19 and 26, 7 p.m. Meet on the side lawn at the Eveleth School; rain location is the program room.

Midday Movie Matinee

On Saturday, July 15, at 1 p.m., join Abbot Public Library’s Midday Movie Matinee for adults where we will show a popular movie based on the life of a legendary rock and roll star.

To see what movie will be presented, visit tinyurl.com/JulyMovie-Matinee or call the library at 781-631-1481.

Teen DIY: Grab and go craft kits

Abbot Public Library at Eveleth School presents Teen DIY: Grab and Go Craft Kits. Visit the Teen Room on Thursdays, July 13 and 27, from 12 p.m.-6 p.m. to pick up a DIY kit with materials for crafts you can make on the go.

Painting nature journals

Abbot Public Library at Eveleth School presents painting nature journals, a creative program for children in grades 4-6. Wednesdays, July 12, 19, 26 and August 2, from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. in the program room. Each child will receive a journal for writing and art, and explore the library’s backyard. Registration is required, so please call the Children’s Room at 781-631-1481 to reserve your spot.

Leigh Blander

Will Dowd

David Moran

Kris Olson

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Members of the Boosters Executive Board are (left to right): Kathy Doody, Lauren Andriano, Muffy Paquette, Mandy Caruso and Kristen Jellison.

COURTESY PHOTO / BATES COLLEGE

President Clayton Spencer, left, presents Nate Walton with the Bruce Stangle Award for Distinguished Service.

Kayaking home to the castle?

“This

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

is Francis Herreshoff in one of his kayaks in Marblehead Harbor on July 19, 1964,” Dixey said. “Herreshoff came from a family of yacht designers and lived in the castle behind Crocker Park. He enjoyed designing small crafts and is seen here in one of his kayak designs. The shot is an original 35mm slide taken by Harry Wilkinson.” Wilkinson wrote the “Memory Lane” column in the Marblehead Messenger.

Water and sewer sets FY24 rates, fees

High-usage consumers will see increase

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

Following a recent public hearing, the Marblehead Water and Sewer Commission has revealed new water and sewer rates for the fiscal year 2024.

The adjustments are designed to manage the debt from water and sewer loans, considering escalating capital project costs and an expanded approved budget.

The Commission’s twotier, conservation-minded rate system means customers consuming over 3,000 cubic

Schools

The goal is to identify ways to improve Marblehead’s special ed programs and keep more students in school here.

Fox outlined some of the information she’s looking for.

“Where are we losing students, how can we recoup them and what are the suggestions for improvements in our programs?

“The biggest point of volatility is out-of-district placements,”

Fox continued. “What can we do to keep these kids? It’s best for the students and it’s best for stabilizing our budget, which helps every student.”

In the FY 24 budget, outof-district placements and transportation total about $4.6 million for 49 students.

Buckey and Assistant Superintendent of Finance Michelle Cresta were tasked with identifying outside consulting groups to conduct the review, which will need to be put out to bid. Committee members hope to interview applicants in August.

Laid-off teachers

The committee did not vote to reinstate any of the 33 school positions cut when the override

Board

From P. A1

understand and review the governance, appointments, morale and effectiveness of our volunteer committees and boards appointed by the Select Board,” said Grader in a follow-up email. “I agree with the intent and objectives of such a review, but I do not agree with the means and the process by which my colleagues seek to do so.”

Grader believes placing all volunteers on hold until what he considers to be “an arbitrary date” will have several negative consequences.

“I believe the process is likely to create unnecessary procedural confusion across the many diverse committees with very different and often complex statutory mandates and, unless handled with diplomacy and deliberation, could potentially undermine legitimate prerogatives of the committee chairs, hinder committee functioning and damage the open spirit of inclusive volunteerism,” he said.

For Grader, Murray’s motion surprised him.

“I decided to vote in favor because I wanted to give my colleagues the benefit of the doubt, “said Grader. “I also support the general objectives of

feet in a three-month billing period pay a higher rate for usage beyond that threshold. Additionally, a customer service charge is applied to offset fixed costs linked to metering, billing and fire services.

For water, the annual administrative charge will rise from $98 to $115, an extra $4.25 per quarter. While the lowusage rate remains at $6.80 per hundred cubic feet, the highusage rate will increase from $9.25 to $9.75.

In terms of sewer services, the annual administrative fee

will escalate from $97 to $108, an additional $2.75 per quarter.

The rates for both low- and highusage remain unchanged at $11 per hundred cubic feet. These changes come after the May Town Meeting budget approval. It enables the Commission to adjust rates based on operation costs, maintenance, debt service, construction and charges for water and sewer treatment. Comprised of five elected members, the Commission is responsible for the operation of both the water distribution

and the wastewater collection systems. All water is sourced from the Massachusetts Water Resource Authority, and wastewater is processed at the South Essex Sewerage District.

The Water Department budget for FY 24 jumps $334,372.69, totaling $5,818,713. This incorporates increases in MWRA charges, salary increments and other expenses. The Sewer Department Budget for FY 24 is projected to reach $5,224,655, an increase of $145,246.38, which includes rises in SESD charges,

Founders

From P. A1

my co-founders, I immediately gravitated towards the nonprofit model. As veteran journalists, we all believe that

failed last month. At its June meeting, the committee asked Buckey to have principals and directors come up with a prioritized list of which cut positions could be rehired first.

The school leaders looked at several criteria when coming up with the list, including the impact on: staff and student safety, struggling students, highachieving students, class sizes, social-emotional supports and student achievement.

The first position identified to be brought back is a Brown School special education teacher.

Schaeffner said it is still possible that the committee

may decide to use more of the surplus to bring back laid-off teachers.

Buckey and Cresta restated their strong opposition to using any of the $500,000 surplus. They both proposed keeping the money for unforeseen costs in the special education budget next year.

The two chairs of the Marblehead Education Association, which represents the town’s teachers, also spoke against using any of the surplus to rehire laid-off teachers.

“Our community has asked for transparency and honesty,” said Jonathan Heller, who teaches at the Village School.

“Yes, the School Committee has the right to determine the line items of the school budget, but by going back into FY 24 to look to restore cuts that the Marblehead Public Schools and the School Committee told this community would happen if the override did not pass only serves to undermine that transparency and honesty.

“In fact, restoring the cuts will have a greater impact on the ability of the passing of a future Proposition 2 ½ override, funding to establish the goal of providing an exemplary education to the children of Marblehead,” he added.

salary increments and other costs.

The water distribution system under the Commission’s management consists of over 83 miles of water mains, a storage tank, more than 845 hydrants, two booster pumping stations and a billing system for over 8,000 customers. The Commission’s mandate also covers the wastewater collection system, encompassing 28 lift stations and over 100 miles of pipe, all directing wastewater to the SESD for treatment.

The School Committee also asked Buckey and Cresta to initiate a review of how many students and teachers are in each school and student-teacher ratios. The Department of Secondary Education states that Marblehead has a 10-1 studentteacher ratio, but Buckey argues that is misleading because it includes para-professionals and other teachers that don’t serve entire classrooms.

Athletics personnel report

The committee will meet July 20 in executive session (without public access) to discuss a personnel matter involving the athletic department.

Fox said she has heard from parents who became concerned after watching a School Committee meeting this spring where public records requests were discussed. One request was for a report on a personnel matter in the athletic department.

“Was there information in that report that would change policy?” Fox asked. “Have we missed a hole in our policies? There were concerns on how this came to light, how long did it take for this to come to light.”

The committee meets in a public session next on August 7 at 8 a.m.

Finance Committee and Harbors and Waters Board.

“It pains me to say it, but I’m really worried [about] who’s going to be the sacrificial committee because it’s pretty clear: This is all about the Finance Committee and the Harbors and Waters Board,” he said. “One of these committees is going to suffer by getting cut, in my opinion.”

Singer underscored the significance of effectively communicating the fourmonth pause with volunteers, emphasizing that the hold on appointments should not be seen as a reflection of their commitment. Instead, it should be viewed as an opportunity to discuss the current procedures.

a responsive review. In addition to communicating my general agreement, supporting the current motion gives me the option to appeal to my board colleagues to reconsider the motion at the next Select Board meeting.”

Grader hopes that the Select Board will take “a two-week period of contemplation” and reappoint volunteers, potentially with their terms ending in May rather than June next year. This adjustment would provide the Select Board with more time to review

the best way forward is as an independent, nonprofit and locally led newspaper. We aren’t funded by a corporate owner. We rely not only on local advertisers, but also on community support, donations and grants.

reappointments before the fiscal year’s end. He further suggests a motion to initiate the Select Board’s review this year, clearly stating the purpose and objectives of such a review.

Noonan wants to break away from the current timing cycle associated with the reappointment process and conduct a thorough review.

“Getting off the cycle of board reappointments would serve us better. This involves moving the process to an earlier time, allowing for comprehensive information before voting,” she

The Current (along with a growing number of other independent, nonprofit news organizations around the country) is leading a movement that will make news stronger, more resilient, impactful and trusted than ever before.

said. “Moreover, we need to pause and review our policies while also soliciting feedback from our volunteers on the reappointment process.”

She proposed actively seeking feedback from volunteers and developing a policy that aligns with the town meeting’s mandate for structured procedures regarding appointments and reappointments.

Nye expressed worry about the impact on specific committees, suggesting that the new Select Board may want to rework the

We report stories that matter to my Marblehead neighbors and community. They inform and, hopefully, inspire. Whether we write about an override vote, a star student athlete or a senior citizen with an incredible, untold story, these articles bring us

“We need to make a proactive effort to reach out to all the volunteers, communicating the reasoning and the process behind any changes,” she said. “It’s important to ensure that we’re not disrespecting our current volunteers and their commitment. We are merely discussing the pros and cons of the current procedure.”

There are many volunteer committees impacted by the hold, including the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Old and Historic Districts Commission, Task Force Against Discrimination and Disabilities Commission.

together as a community and make us better informed and more connected.

The Current founders, journalists and board members invite you to join this exciting movement, and read and support our paper.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Teachers Jonathan Heller and Sally Shevory (back left corner), co-chairs of the Marblehead Education Association, address the School Committee on July 6.

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Select Board members voted to hold the reappointments of over 100 volunteers until Nov. 1.

A legacy carved in history

Friends, family remember Wayne T. Butler in Old North Church memorial service

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

A palpable sense of veneration filled Marblehead’s Old North Church on July 8, as the community gathered to pay tribute to one of its beloved members, Wayne T. Butler.

Butler, who passed away on Oct. 23 at the age of 91 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, left behind a legacy steeped in kindness, historic preservation and unwavering dedication to his town, according to several eulogies offered during the memorial service.

Known for his meticulous cataloging and preservation of Marblehead’s historical papers and artifacts, Butler’s endeavors ensured that the town’s heritage would be safeguarded and accessible for future generations.

Marilyn Freeman — a close friend and fellow Old North Church member — captured Butler’s character.

“Memorial services such as this are somewhat like the art of making a quilt,” Freeman said. “If anyone is asked to make a fabric memory square representing an interaction with Wayne, imagine what a finished one will look like. He was calm, listened well and took great delight in everyday conversations.”

Freeman recalled a moment when a fire broke out in the Old North Church, and Butler sprang into action.

“He alerted the fire department,” she said. “He directed responders to appropriate places and then supervised repairs and improvements.”

Marblehead Forever Award winner

After retirement, Butler’s love for Marblehead led him to volunteer at Abbott Hall, serving on and leading the Marblehead Historical Commission for several years.

“In the early 2000s, the cataloging was computerized, using a database designed for museum collections,” Pam Peterson wrote in a piece for the Historical Commission. “Wayne initiated computer cataloging of the commission’s collection, selected the PastPerfect computer program and devoted countless hours to setting up and cataloging documents and objects, including photos of the items.”

In 2005, he earned the “Marblehead Forever” award for his meticulous work organizing the vast array of physical objects and historical documents donated to the town.

“The Commission notes with sadness the passing of Wayne Butler, a longtime volunteer, collections manager and commission chair,” the Historical Commission wrote in the 2022 Town Report. “Wayne single-handedly organized the Commission’s collection and created the tools to manage it.”

Butler discovered Paul Revere’s letter in 2009, hidden

away in a file cabinet in Abbot Hall. Revere’s letter, addressed to Jonathon Glover, was an attempt to purchase old cannons belonging to the town for use in his new foundry in Boston. Today, a high-resolution copy of the letter hangs in the Select Board Room.

A family man

In addition to his community involvement, Butler’s family played a central role in his life. Madisyn Butler, his granddaughter, struggled to express her grandfather’s love and care for her and her brother, Foster.

“He also loved to be at home with us. I remember him making up dances with me every time that he visited,” she said.

“He was always my biggest supporter.”

Joshua Butler, Wayne’s nephew, grew up close to his uncle on Mugford Street. Wayne was a constant in his life.

“Wayne showed his affection through mentorship,” he

said. “He would take every opportunity to stop and explain or give me a story about the history of something.”

He remembered Butler’s patience and eagerness to teach, especially during their Friday night dinner conversations.

“Everything that I have today, all my traits, my interests, I attribute to all the time I spent with Wayne,” Joshua said.

Born Oct. 9, 1931 to Emma Frances (née Hammond) and Edward Royer Butler, Wayne Trasher Butler was the eldest of five children. He graduated from Marblehead High School in 1950 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Boston University.

In 1958, Butler married Susie Gangi of Waltham. Together, they raised three children — Sandra, Robert and Charles.

Christopher Butler, Butler’s youngest brother with 21 years between them, recounted vivid “flashbulb memories” from their youth. He began by recalling Butler’s wedding, when Christopher was just five

years old. As the ring bearer, he received a silver dollar from his brother.

“Now, I don’t have that silver dollar anymore,” he said, “but I do remember that smile on his face so well.”

Wayne Butler’s boat building business, E.R. Butler & Sons, made and sold small wooden rowboats, known as prams, and other wooden products. He also loved children, according to his obituary. His woodshop was adorned with thank you notes from Gerry School kindergartners who visited to see his boat building.

“Neighborhood kids could count on a great story, and he was always there for his own kids, nurturing their passions and interests,” reads his obituary.

His son-in-law, Michael Dethridge, delivered a eulogy on behalf of Butler’s children, encapsulating his approach to fatherhood.

“He taught us how to think, reason, consider, solve problems and view challenges as opportunities,” Dethridge said. “He was a gentle, thoughtful human who made us feel cared for, protected, loved and nurtured.”

Falk’s service as Rotary district governor ends

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

After serving as the governor of Rotary District 7930 for a year, Marblehead resident Alexander Falk recently concluded his tenure. The fact that a local was able to hold such a prestigious position within Rotary International brought a sense of pride to both the Rotary Club of Marblehead and the Rotary Club of Marblehead Harbor.

Falk’s term was marked by strong operations, including thorough training for incoming presidents, secretaries and treasurers, promoting environmental causes, fundraising for the Rotary Foundation and advocating the district’s commitment to eradicating polio worldwide.

“As district governor, you kind of handle, let’s call it, ‘the back-office operations’ for Rotary clubs in Northeastern Massachusetts and the Southern New Hampshire region,” Falk told the Marblehead Current. “You’re essentially responsible for 44 Rotary clubs and 1,500 Rotarians.”

In 1992, Falk, who is from Austria, founded Altova, a software company based in Vienna and specializing in software developer tools. After nearly a decade of growth, he relocated the business to the U.S. in 2001 to further expand.

As the president and CEO of Altova, Falk manages a team of

around 100 employees across offices in Vienna and Beverly.

Several Rotary members commended his technological prowess and inclusive spirit.

“Falk is very knowledgeable about all things Rotary, hardworking, supportive and generous with his time and resources,” said Nancy Gwin, the immediate past president of the Rotary Club of Marblehead. “We have all greatly benefited from his leadership.”

Gwin described Falk as an “outstanding member” since he joined in December 2009. He served as the club’s president in 2018. The Rotary Club of

Marblehead Harbor recently presented Falk with its Barry Weed Award, which is given in memory of the late charter member of the Harbor Rotary who also served as the district’s assistant treasurer.

“The award represents the caring, dedicated, communityoriented service for which Weed was known during his tenure as president of Marblehead’s National Grand Bank,” the club said in an email to the Current.

“With his firm understanding of Rotary’s motto, ‘Service Above Self,’ and an impressive year leading District 7930’s 40-plus Rotary clubs, Falk was the

Harbor Rotary’s clear choice for the special recognition.”

Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million individuals united by the common goal of creating lasting change. Their diverse initiatives span promoting peace, fighting diseases like polio and HIV/AIDS, providing clean water and sanitation, supporting maternal and child health, strengthening education and literacy, boosting local economies and tackling environmental issues.

Local Rotarians often carry out these goals through financial assistance, volunteer efforts and organizational support to local causes and projects.

In Marblehead, Rotarians have awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars in academic scholarships and paid for kids to attend summer camp.

Moreover, Falk played a crucial role in providing financial support to Rotaries for their grant projects that run the gamut from bike racks to a service dog for an individual on the autism spectrum.

Falk has a passion for pollinators and promoted a “No Mow May” program, which encourages participants to let their grass grow un-cut for the month of May. This aids in the growth of wildflowers, creating habitat for early-season pollinators, especially in urban areas with limited space.

With the help of the local

nonprofit Stone & Compass and the Rotary Interact Club, the Marblehead Rotary Club served over 100 homes, planting hundreds of milkweed plants and butterfly bushes in the Marblehead area.

Before becoming district governor, Falk spearheaded the revival of the Youth Exchange Program in Marblehead, offering international students the opportunity to immerse themselves in American culture and education.

Falk described his first trip to America in 1979 as transformative and eye-opening. He journeyed across the West Coast, spending time in San Francisco and Los Angeles, Arizona and Texas. He also visited Florida and New York.

“I really got to see the whole spectrum of diversity in landscapes and people,” Falk said, adding that the American landscape left him in awe. “Americans were so friendly.”

Alexander and his wife, Nora, are the proud parents of Calvin and Swanee Falk, and the family has, in many ways, adopted students.

“Alexander and Nora have opened their home for many years as host families for international students coming to the United States as part of the Rotary Youth Exchange Program,” Gwin said. “A generous spirit runs in their family!”

‘SERVICE ABOVE SElF’

Wayne T. Butler tirelessly organized and cataloged thousands of Marblehead’s historical artifacts, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

COURTESY PHOTO / THE BUTLER FAMILY

Marblehead resident Wayne T. Butler, who died in October at 91, devoted his time and skills to preserving Marblehead’s rich history.

CURRENT PHOTO / NICOLE GOODHUE-BOYD

Alexander Falk spent a year leading 44 Rotary Clubs and 1,500 Rotarians in Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.

Setting the bar higher

Before Chair Sarah Fox opened the public comment period of the School Committee’s July 6 meeting, she offered a word of caution.

In light of what had happened at the board’s June 30 meeting, a concerned parent had come to Fox, fearful that her child would be subject to further bullying if the public comment period was used to breach the confidentiality of their dealings with the district, she explained.

Fox asked all who might speak during the public comment period to be cognizant of confining their comments to public information and resist the urge to use the forum to chill people’s exercise of their rights.

It is a point well taken, especially given the fraught issues like bullying and special education services school districts are called upon to deal with daily.

However, the situation prompting Fox’s remarks involves someone in a different category entirely.

Fox was reacting to the appearance before the board of Paul Baker, an unsuccessful candidate for School Committee, who had used the June 30 public comment period to shed light on the previously undisclosed age discrimination complaint new School Committee member

The law only establishes the minimum requirements of public officials. Voters have a right to set their expectations higher — and to be disappointed when those expectations are not met.

Brian Ota had filed with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination after his contract as Glover School principal was not renewed following the 2021-22 school year.

Nothing in the conflict-of-interest law prohibits someone with a pending complaint or lawsuit against a town department from running for or sitting on a board overseeing the department at the root of his legal dispute, and to the best of our determination, Ota is correct when he states that he has met the letter of the conflict-of-interest law.

But, as is often the case, the law only establishes the minimum requirements of public officials. Voters have a right to set their expectations higher — and to be disappointed when those expectations are not met.

Almost without fail, candidates for public office are asked, “Why are you running?” The prevalence of that question suggests that voters place paramount importance on candidates’ motivations, and they want those motivations to be pure.

As Ota himself noted in his “disclosure of appearance of conflict of interest” form filed with the town clerk, the School Committee on which he now sits has two jobs: approving the budget and evaluating, hiring or firing the superintendent.

At least for the time being, Ota would seem to be disqualified from carrying out the latter duty, as the conflict-of-interest law prohibits public employees from participating in matters in which they have a financial interest. By participating in the evaluation process, Ota could obtain information about the superintendent’s performance that could affect the outcome of his pending complaint, though Ota has also said he did not ask the MCAD for any compensation.

Much discussion around town in recent years has focused on the need for greater transparency in our local government, its officials and its proceedings. Town Meeting has addressed articles calling for greater transparency and candidates have put forth their support for same in recent campaigns.

By failing to let voters know in advance of the June election that he was a party to administrative litigation arising out of his school contract having not been renewed by Superintendent John Buckey — the very person whose own employment contract comes under the control of the School Committee — Ota chose privacy over transparency. And voters were thereby denied information that might well have affected their decision to vote for or against him.

Again, the issue is not whether Ota has cleared the low bar set for him by the state — that, he seems to have done — but whether he has met the voters’ higher, but still reasonable, expectations for an elected official.

Ota is just starting his service as a School Committee member and has plenty of time to demonstrate that he ran for the right reasons, not as an act of revenge.

But as beginnings go, this was not an auspicious one.

EVERy THING WIll BE OKAy

Out of control

BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM

I do not consider myself a control freak. I have certain little mishegas — Yiddish for silly, er, maybe crazy habits. I can’t tolerate when the front foyer light is left on, I’ll literally drop everything to go turn it off. A kitchen cabinet door left open? That’s akin for me of every fingernail of every child in America scraping a chalkboard. Sometimes to tease me, my kids would leave every cabinet open. Just for laughs. Ha. Ha. Ha.

But in general, when things happen outside my control, I try to accept them.

Like the weather.

By the time you’re reading this, summer might have arrived. I know it’s July 12 and those scienceminded folks who chose meteorology as a profession told us summer started June 21. It didn’t. All those high-pressure domes — or is it low-pressure fronts? — are out of their control, too. And they seem pretty sanguine about it when you watch them on the evening news. Perhaps a required course at meteorology school, in addition to using a green screen, is on the benefits of taking deep breaths and practicing radical acceptance. I should try to control how many times I refresh the weather app on my iPhone. Last week, the little AI robot spitting out our forecast was having a great datadriven laugh at our expense. Sun for the next three minutes, light rain for the next 1,072. Every time I clicked on the app, the promised sun, whether in a few hours or a few days, had switched back to the world’s most demoralizing emoji, a cloud with raindrops falling from it. It’s been said that there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices. Tell that to my mood, which was not improved whatsoever by a raincoat and hat. Deep breaths, radical acceptance.

What else is out of my control? The closure of the Sumner Tunnel. Anyone else feel, as I do, like the soon-to-be stranded passengers on the Minnow? A three-hour tour, um, commute to Boston? Officials are pitching “ditch the drive” and offering all manner of alternative ways to get into the city. I was kind of intrigued by the idea of taking the Lynn Ferry, until I saw how limited the hours of operation were. And then I read a quote from a former state transportation

secretary known as a zealot when it comes to advocating for public transit. Will people actually ditch the drive and lessen the traffic nightmare? “I personally doubt it,” he said. Luckily, I don’t have to go into Boston regularly. For those of you who do? Deep breaths, radical acceptance.

What else can’t I control? The conniving backyard evildoer previously known as the Eastern gray squirrel. I am trying to do a more careful job this season of tending to my tomato plants. I’ve pruned them, propped them and picked off those little suckers which drain the plant’s growing energy. I faithfully keep my little plot surrounded by chicken wire to ward off the bunnies. I water. I fertilize. I pray to the garden gods. Recently, I found a half-eaten, un-ripe tomato casually discarded outside the wire fencing. A few nibbles and the evildoer simply chucked the surely sour fruit to the side. It will be back. I cannot stop the squirrels from climbing the fence and claiming my fruits and vegetables as their own. Hopefully my plants will produce more than those little soul suckers can ingest. Deep breaths, radical acceptance.

My now-adult niece lives nearby and is raising two tweenagers. She recently lamented that she is no longer in control of how the oldest of her daughters spends her social time. I remember that transition, when carefully orchestrated playdates that worked for your schedule became a plan made by your children by text with no thought to your convenience at all. You simply became their driver, and heaven forbid if you made an embarrassing joke, or dared to play your own choice of music in front of their friends. You can’t control the passage of time hurling your children forward to tweenager, teenager, young adult. There’s so much out of our control — the past, the future, a heck of a lot in the present. It’s enough to drive you crazy. Not mishegas-crazy, anxious-crazy. So, I’m doubling down on taking the deep breaths and acceptance route. That route won’t get me into Boston any faster, or plaster my weather app with sun emojis. But it will feel better, just like it does when every cabinet in my kitchen is firmly closed.

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

Exploring a new kind of wilderness

BY COURT MERRIGAN

I have been fond of saying since I arrived in Marblehead that I don’t know the difference between a cement truck and a sailboat. The place where I grew up is the dead center of the country, as far from one ocean as from the other. One of the most vivid memories of my childhood remains the first time I saw the ocean. I couldn’t quite believe all that vast blue stretching out into nothingness. I was also 14 by then. Old enough for my feet to be awfully firmly planted on terra firma, where they’ve generally remained ever since.

This, however, did not stop me from signing up my son for sailing classes. More on that in a moment.

The other day I was standing at the top of Abbot Hall talking with one of my fellow Cranks (volunteers who crank the clock there). He’s read my column on Steer Swamp, and noted my remark about the paucity of wilderness in this long-settled portion of New England. He said to me, “But we’re surrounded by wilderness. Look over,” and pointed out to the ocean.

For Christmas, my daughter got me a T-shirt highlighting “The Sharks of Marblehead,” which I gathered from the garment are not

only tracked, but named. Now, it’s true that in the deep wilderness of the Wyoming mountains there are bears and wolves and camp provision-pilfering chipmunks. It’s equally true that great white sharks patrol the waters off Marblehead. Neither group of large animals has much interest in me, as humans

are generally considered nondelicious in predator circles. But mathematically speaking, there are great white sharks closer to my house in Marblehead than there were grizzly bears to my house in Wyoming. My fellow Crank is

CURRENT PHOTO / COURT MERRIGAN

Heading off into the wilderness of Salem Harbor.

Fourth of July fireworks from Fountain Park

To the editor:

For the past 40 years, my husband and I have viewed the July 4th fireworks from two vantage points, from Fort Sewall in the days when the fireworks were set off on the Causeway, and since Fountain Park when the fireworks switched locations and are set off from a barge at the mouth of the Marblehead Harbor.

Yesterday, in the evening hours approaching the start time of 9:15 p.m., the town itself was filled with the joy of people moving towards their viewing destinations. The whole town was alive with locals and visitors in the know. The 100 or so people of all ages gathered on Fountain Park were in a festive mood — families together, kids laughing and playing with sparklers, excitement building for the fantastic fireworks display.

No one was in a hurry. No one cared that the display began 15 minutes late. We all were just enjoying the local scenery. But finally, boom, boom boom — the opening fireworks sounded and all eyes turned towards the sky. A moment of disbelief and shock — nothing! Boom, boom, boom again. Nothing. Then everyone broke out in laughter. Sound but no light. The fog wafted up from the water below. So thick, you could barely make out anything — neither the boats in the harbor, nor the ring of lights’ rosy afterglow around the harbor. Boom, boom, boom. More nothing. More laughter and disbelief.

After many minutes passed, you could see the faintest glimpse of sparkling light. For no reason, one or two fireworks got up high enough, or were set off at a moment of parting fog.

The grand finale was particularly hilarious. Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom boom… on and on. One could see a pale reflection of what we used to know to be true. So dim, you weren’t sure it was real. It was a grand finale of the fireworks only of booms and barely any flashes of light.

Did people realize that this is the first or if not the first, the most obvious of July 4ths that is affected by climate change. The fires in Canada, the air quality, the low to no visibility of what is immediately in front of you.

Recall that twice in June and once so far in July, the air quality index has increased to dangerous levels. With it, visibility has decreased and what are normally sunny, blue, summer days and clear night skies are overcast skies, or, in the case of the Marblehead fireworks, invisible light displays.

Rules of thumb regarding climate change: for every drought, a downpour; dry places get dryer; wet places get wetter.

The other night we saw only the barest glimpse of fireworks, but it rained down the truth of climate change. Privileged as we are, we all lived the spirit of July fourth as if there were no tomorrow.

Susan Murcott Atlantic Avenue

MFoA Performing Arts Committee says ‘thank you’

To the editor: The Marblehead Festival of Arts Performing Arts Committee would like to thank the many people and community members that helped us present our 56th Performing Arts Concerts @ Crocker Park during our 57th Festival. As always, our lineup required an incredible amount of assistance and we’d like to acknowledge the tremendous support received this year. Thanks to: All our performers who were great to work with, and really gave us their all for these tremendous shows! To the Festival volunteers who always enthusiastically do their part, and the sound & lights crew, without whom we could not do the gig, including; Morrell Reynolds, Todd Rocco, Lawrence Habin and Claude Richardson, plus our in-house pros Jerry Morvillo and Rob Bernstein from Matty Colon Productions Unlimited for making it all look and sound so good! Thanks to our Internship Program Coordinator John Krivit and our 2023 student interns plus crew of Abby Wheeler, Jamie Wheeler, Joey Smith and the NYC gang, as we continue the 20+ year tradition of education, very hard work and lots of laughs! Thanks also to Kathy Culkin for feeding the crew!

Our deepest gratitude goes to the following local restaurants for their donations to feed our performers. As always, we invite you to visit these giving members of our community and when you do, thank them for their donations to this year’s Festival: Amore Kitchen (Maria & Daniel), The Landing (Rob), Three Cod Tavern (Chip), Evan’s Deli (Evan), Café Italia (Donna & Mark), Casa Corona (Felix), Manhattan Sandwich Shoppe (Mike & Kaitlin), House of Pizza (Tom) and The Beacon (Johnny & Edgar). Thanks also to Ralph Khouri for gracing our stage with the beautiful oriental rug!

Thanks to the Select Board and staff for their support. And to town officials for providing access to historic Crocker Park, one of the most beautiful concert venues in the world!

Thanks also to Peter James, Sam Andrews and the Rec and

Parks Department for helping us keep the park clean and safe. Thanks also to Rick Macomber of Macomber Electricians for his annual efforts to keep the “juice” flowing.

Thanks to this year’s Festival President Jodi Tatiana Charles, Bill Smalley and the 2023 Festival Board of Directors, along with so many others for supporting our efforts.

Special thanks once again to our technical director and Mr. Festival, Robb Macomber, for doing it all every year!

Thanks to Fred & Karl of Marblehead Hardware for the very kind “Traeger Grill Giveaway” prize donation. Thanks to the Crocker Park neighbors and Mariner’s Lane Association. Hope your weekend was a great one. Thank you, thank you!

Finally, thank you to our beloved town of Marblehead and our incredible community for the forum to entertain and for being there to enjoy it all. It is so gratifying to see neighbors all together and to hear such positive feedback! It’s worth every minute of the time we put in to provide incredible performances to such a supportive audience!

We are already working on our 58th Festival and invite you to be part of the fun. Simply visit www.marbleheadfestival.org to join us or visit the Festival’s Facebook page for the latest updates and to post/share your Festival photos!

How lucky are we to share this great gift of performing arts with all of you. We never take it or your support for granted. A final thanks goes to you all!

Brian Wheeler, MFoA Performing Arts chairperson Waterside Road

Thank you to National Grand Bank

To the editor: I would like to thank President Jim Nye and the National Grand Bank for your continued financial support to Chaplin Lyman Rollins VFW Post 2005 on Memorial Day and Veterans Day. After each of these important ceremonies, the post always welcomes the public for refreshment and conversation.

Thank you National Grand Bank!

Sincerely,

y

We want to hear from you

The Marblehead Current loves to get letters to the editor. There are just a few rules you need to know.

Generally, letters should not exceed 500 words. The Marblehead Current reserves the right not to publish submissions over the word limit and may instead return the letter to the writer for editing.

Letters must include:

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

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5. Letters must be received by 5 p.m. Wednesday to be published in the following Wednesday’s print edition of the Marblehead Current. Letters will be published to our website at the earliest opportunity, after verification.

Email submissions to info@marbleheadnews.org.

While the Marblehead Current will make every effort to let writers have their say, it reserves the right not to publish letters.

multi-generational game and it’s exactly what we need in our amazing town of Marblehead.

Teens are playing together, families are playing together and grandparents are playing with grandchildren. The court is a perfect size for those little legs too!

Part of the appeal is it does take some coordination, you have to be physically healthy to play but it’s easy to learn. The court is smaller than a tennis court and the net is lower. You run in short sprints and the impact of hitting the ball is minimal, so it’s easier on the joints. With practice and some instruction, you’ll be having some great rallies in no time!

different backgrounds keeps you tuned in to what’s going on out there. When playing, laughter is sure to ensue and laughter also reduces stress. Players range from age 3 to 90 in Marblehead! Playing pickleball is significantly related to helping to reduce depression. When playing, your endorphins and serotonin levels rise which is good for battling depression.

correct. The wilderness is right over there.

But predators aren’t really the gravest risk we all face. Life presents many hazards. Take the weather. Back home, you don’t want to get caught out in a blizzard or a tornado. Out at sea, the storms can turn deadly in a hurry. Particularly if you are on a wooden fishing schooner in 1846.

My first visit to the Marblehead Museum brought me face to face with this. The excellent collection of J.O.J. Frost paintings there includes a rendering of the Great Gale of 1846, in which 11 vessels were lost. Sixtyfive men and boys went down into the deep, leaving behind 43 widows and 155 fatherless children. Frost captures this calamity with a folksy straightforwardness: men thrashing in the water, debris tossed about on foamy waves, unconcerned seabirds

David C Rodgers, Post Commander

Why we love pickleball

To the editor: Pickleball in Marblehead has attracted over 600 players! We are a growing and thriving sport in Marblehead! Pickleball is a

alighting to scavenge. The everyday way he depicts the hull breaking up and the water rushing in connected me to my own experiences of loss.

The information in the museum read that when Frost himself went to sea, he experienced a similar storm and survived.

Then he never went to sea again. Can’t say as I blame him.

The exhibit also features a preserved stern board of the Warrior, one of the ships that went down that day. I can imagine the widows and newly fatherless children gathering to that piece of sea-beaten wood like a talisman. Touching it, perhaps, as remnant and reminder of their lost beloveds.

Naturally, I did my best to keep my mind off all of this as I delivered young Waylon to Stramski Park for the first day of sailing camp. The lad is a Marbleheader now, and the language of Marblehead is the sea. At 12, he can learn a new language with ease. Off he strode with new life jacket in hand to

Research shows that players burn 40% more calories during a 30-minute pickleball game than during 30 minutes of walking, increasing their heart rates to within the moderate-intensity exercise zone. And a study of people ages 40 to 86 who played an hour of pickleball three days a week showed improvements in cholesterol, blood pressure and cardiorespiratory fitness. Other health benefits include boosting the immune system.

Pickleball can help improve balance. Pickleball requires hand, eye and foot coordination. Your balance, your movement and your coordination all get better as you play more which will help in preventing falls.

As we grow older, being social and playing pickleball with friends of every age and from

start learning the lessons I learned on the farm and in the mountains. Hard work, teamwork, discipline: the skills that will help you move through any wilderness.

At the end of the week, he unfurled his new lexicon: stern, jib, square knot, rudder, bowline. He also had found the balance he and his shipmates needed to keep their vessel afloat. In keeping with this, he’d learned how to right and climb back aboard a capsized sailboat. I told him that perhaps it was best not to capsize in the first place? He rolled his eyes at my landlubbing snark and said, “Dad, sometimes the sea doesn’t give you a choice.”

Indeed, son. Best to know how to right yourself, climb back aboard and sail on through any wilderness you face. And the wilderness that surrounds us here in Marblehead is a fine place to learn.

As always, if you’ve got an idea upon which I can embark for a Marblehead First Time, drop me a line at court. merrigan@gmail.com.

Retirees that play pickleball restore a sense of purpose after leaving the working world. Players start to form an identity as they play. They can continue to get better, and they’re able to compete and to have that satisfaction of winning contributes to their quality of life in many ways.

And when it comes to mastering the skill, the sky’s the limit. You can always improve at pickleball. That’s so satisfying! How many sports are we able to get better at? At any age?

it’s not just the physical exercise that gets you hooked. It’s also the mental workout as well as improving mental acuity. Some chatter overheard at the courts:

“Pickleball has given me a way to be active for a couple of hours, break a sweat, and feel really good about myself.”

“Pickleball is cheaper than therapy.”

“I leave with a smile on my face and sweat on my brow!”

Lisa Spinale Franklin Street

CORRECTION: The senior spotlight in our July 5 edition included the wrong photo of Dana Denault. Here is the correct photo of Denault. The photo last week was of Denault’s close friend, Bob Gotschall. The two men have gotten quite a laugh out of the mix-up.

The Screaming Woman

BY PAM PETERSON

When considering the topic of late 17th- and 18th-century pirates who roamed colonial waters from the Caribbean to New England, we can’t forget the most gruesome and largely mythical tale of Marblehead’s screaming or screeching woman.

Samuel Roads’ “History and Traditions of Marblehead (1880)” is the earliest printed account.

Roads relates the oral tradition of stories about pirates, phantoms and superstitious omens that “formed the burden of conversation through the long winter evenings” for as long as anyone could remember.

A Spanish ship had been captured by pirates somewhere off Marblehead. The pirates knew that Marblehead’s fishing fleet had left for the Grand Banks earlier

that day. Pirates often watched for a fishing fleet to leave its small village and then swept

into town to steal what they needed. Marblehead was in that state the night that Spanish pirates came ashore for a terrible deed that still sends shivers down the spines of many. It was a dark night in the harbor, the moon shrouded in mist. The pirates had killed the entire crew of the Spanish ship and the only survivor was a beautiful English lady passenger, dressed in an elegant gown of silk with many rings, necklaces

and jewels. She had proudly refused to give up her possessions, and defied the pirates as best she could. Finally, the rogues took her ashore to Lovis Cove (now the beach beside the Barnacle) in Marblehead Harbor. There they brutally murdered the poor woman, even chopping off her fingers to get the rings. The fine English lady screamed and begged for help from anyone who could hear her, “Lord

save me! Mercy! O Lord Jesus, save me!” Her cries rang out over the lowland marshes that surrounded the cove. Many could hear her, but they were defenseless against the pirates and so they stayed quiet to save themselves. Her screams went on and on until finally there was silence. Legend has it that she was buried there on the beach.

The horror of the event was made worse because no one could or would save her.

Perhaps it is for that reason that the place is known as Screaming Woman’s Cove, and her cries can still be heard today. Even now people don’t like to walk down there late on dark and foggy nights, and every year there are police reports of yet another person who has heard Marblehead’s Screaming Woman.

Pam Peterson chairs the Marblehead Historical Commission.

COURTESY PHOTO / MARBLEHEAD MUSEUM

A painting depicting the moon illuminating Marblehead Harbor.

lEGION BASEBA ll

Mariners gearing up for playoffs

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The American Legion District 8 baseball playoffs are looming for the Marblehead-Swampscott U-19 Senior Mariners, who are in the process of wrapping up the regular season. The playoffs are slated to get underway on July 15.

The Mariners took on Peabody last Thursday, July 6, at Seaside, only to lose the close verdict, 3-1.

Ian Maude had another solid outing on the mound for the home team. The righty pitcher allowed just four hits and three runs over seven innings, while striking out six and walking one.

E.J. Wyman, Bodie Bartram and David Bartram each collected one hit to lead the offensive attack.

The Mariners were scheduled to play five more games before the start of the postseason.

They were scheduled to play at Methuen on July 8, before facing Lowell and Andover at home on Monday and Tuesday, after the Current’s press deadline.

Beverly then comes to Seaside tonight (July 12) at 6 p.m., before the Marblehead boys wrap up the regular season at Lowell’s Alumni Field, also starting at 6 p.m.

Lowd/Ryan tournament revisited

After four days of rest due to rain, the MarbleheadSwampscott American Legion Post 57 senior team Mariners played in the Bill Lowd/Doc

Ryan American Legion Baseball Invitational in Beverly.

The tournament included some of the top Legion programs in the country: Shrewsbury Post 397, Leominster Post 151, St. Mary’s Post 255 (Maryland), Colorado Post 1187 and the host team, Beverly Post 331.

On Friday, June 30, the Mariners lost a heartbreaker to Leominster, 3-2. The game was tied at one after seven innings. Leominster ended up winning it in the ninth.

Ian Maude pitched 7.2 innings,

scattering 10 hits while giving up just two runs. He fanned six. Bodie Bartram pitched the last 1.1 innings in relief.

Brooks Keefe, Tyler Chiarello, Riley Schmitt, Drake Wyman, Will Roddy and David Bartram each had one hit to pace the offensive attack.

The Mariners then lost to a solid Shrewsbury team the next day.

“We spotted them runs early on, and you just can’t do that against a team like Shrewsbury,” said coach Kent Wheeler. “They

have been to the American Legion World Series three times in the last five years and have competed for the state and regional championship year after year.”

In the second game of Saturday’s doubleheader, the Mariners faced St. Mary’s Post 255 of Maryland. They were state champions and Mid-Atlantic regional champions in 2021. The Mariners bats finally came to life, outhitting Maryland, nine hits to seven, but the team came up short where it counts, on the

scoreboard, 5-4. Quinn Fitzpatrick started on the mound for Post 57 and pitched well for the first couple of innings. Quinn Hitchcock pitched the next three in relief, giving up no hits, while striking out four. He tried to help himself out at the plate with two doubles. Ben Milner and Bartram each had an extra-base hit. The Mariners stole six bases, with Drake Wyman and Milner leading the way with two apiece. The tournament games on Sunday were rained out.

Sixth-graders advance to state finals

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead Youth Soccer Revolution sixth grade boys team recently capped a great, long run in the MTOC (Massachusetts Tournament of Champions).

This tournament, consisting of the best youth soccer teams throughout the state, continued to display Marblehead’s commitment to excellence. After winning the Essex County regional championship, the Revolution advanced all the way to the state finals.

The team’s regular season, which began in early April, was filled with many highlights and solid performances, the most dramatic of which was the final game against host Georgetown.

The visitors needed to win the game to advance to the regionals, and the Revolution delivered their best performance of the year to date. They raced off to a 3-0 lead at halftime and never looked back to win the game, 3-1.

The Marblehead boys were one of six sixthgrade teams invited to the Essex County playoffs and benefited from a bye in the first round.

In the semifinals, the Revolution shutout Peabody, 3-0, before they outhustled Manchester

in the finals, while also avenging their only regular-season loss.

“As was the case throughout the spring season, inspired goalkeeping along with very tenacious defense and midfield play were the keys to our success, not to mention a sharp, patient passing game,” said coach

Rudi Hervé. Then it was off to Lancaster for the MTOC.

The Essex County champs were one of 12 sixth-grade teams to qualify for the state finals.

A 5-0 win against Norwell, followed by a 1-0 loss to Arlington left Marblehead needing a victory over previously

undefeated Westford to make it to the next round.

Playing through pouring rain, the locals trailed 2-0 with 10 minutes to go in this quarterfinal matchup. But they showed true grit to come back to tie things up before scoring a truly miraculous goal on the last kick of the game to secure the 3-2 triumph

that advanced them to the semifinals.

On the final day of competition, Marblehead faced off against top-seed Yarmouth, a team that had easily won its league and county playoffs, before registering three more victories in the MTOC, outscoring the opposition, 10-0.

Still exuberant over their thrilling win against Westford, Marblehead refused to be intimated, taking a 2-0 lead at halftime. But the second half was thoroughly dominated by Yarmouth, with only defensive heroics enabling Marblehead to grind out the 2-1 win.

The championship game against familiar foe Westford was then played in excruciating heat with limited subs. It was simply a step too far for this courageous group. The Marblehead boys eventually fell to a physically intimidating and revengeful Westford team, who deservedly won the state title, according to the Marblehead coaching staff. The Revolution ended up with a 10-2-3 overall record. They scored 35 goals while allowing just 19. The team’s outstanding technique and tenacity was able to extend the season to the last possible game.

David Beletsky, Nathaniel Bentley, Rylan Bruell, Charlie Czapla, Philip Druker, Markus Faust, Wyatt Goldberg, Matthias Hervé-Lorenzo, Mitchell Leighton, goalie Joseph Merle, Gawain Salzberg and Connor Zundl made up the winning roster. Jason Faust, Rodolphe Hervé and Jim Leighton were their coaches.

COURTESY PHOTO

Marblehead-Swampscott American Legion Post 57 senior team player Charlie Sachs gets ready to slide home during the Bill Lowd / Doc Ryan American Legion Baseball Invitational in Beverly earlier this month.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Marblehead Youth Soccer boys sixth grade team is shown after winning the recent Essex County championship. They then went on to the Massachusetts Tournament of Champions, where they made it to the state title game before losing to Westford. Team members are, standing, from left, Connor Zundl, Wyatt Goldberg, Nate Bentley, Mitchell Leighton, Ryland Bruell, David Beletsky and Charlie Czapla; kneeling, from left, Philip Druker, Gawain Salzberg, Markus Faust, Joseph Merle and Matthias Herve-Lorenzo.

Street Festival draws hundreds of people, a dozen aliens and a mime

BY CHRIS STEVENS

It was hot and humid and filled with long lines, but none of that seemed to have much effect on the hundreds of people who turned out for the Arts Festival Street Fair on Tuesday, the Fourth of July.

“Beyond happy,” said Arts Festival President Jodi-Tatiana Charles.

Washington Street was shut down from the Lee Mansion to just before Darling Street to make room a cast of characters that included Sir Mimealot, Big Nazo and his band of dancing aliens, Avery the stiltwalker, Bonaparte the Magician, Maria Mercuri’s Ancient Fire Henna and balloon twister Jenni Watrous. The Northshoremen, a barbershop chorus, was also on hand to woo passers-by, as was the Merj Band, with rock and roll fiddle player Roze Malone and guitarist/bassist/singer

Jim Malone.

Tom Schubmehl patiently waited in a long and winding line with his grandchildren, Nellie, Anna and Will, who were anxious to visit Watrous the balloon twister.

“They’ve watched the magic show, waiting in line for balloons but the alien’s

show is the big draw,” Schubmehl said.

And as if on cue, a gaggle of larger-than-life sized creatures began to bob and weave and dance through the crowd, at one point noting that Marblehead was now the alien overlords’ permanent vacation destination. After freezing for photos they broke into dance, a jumble of wiggling tentacles and high-fives.

“They are Nellie’s favorite,” Schubmehl said.

Oceane Laurent was also a fan after one extraterrestrial stopped to perform an elaborate handshake with her.

“That is the first time I ever got to high-five an alien,” she said with a laugh.

From the middle of the

Festival, artist Martha Quigley watched the aliens’ festivities with apparent delight. Tucked into a friend’s driveway

along the route, Quigley’s ocean paintings were a popular draw.

“I’m a solo, one-person show of sorts,” she said, adding that she liked being in the midst of things.

Quigley said she appreciated the Festival and being part of it. As the coordinator of the Harbor Holidays at the B.Y.C., an annual pop-up shopping event that includes 23 local artisans, she is all about promoting the arts and supporting local artists.

Across the way, a chorus of “habbita, habbita, habbita,” could be heard as Bonaparte wowed a crowd with his magic act.

Bonaparte said he’s been coming to the Festival for decades.

“Because I love it,” he said simply. “I get to work with some of the most talented performers and the organizers are top notch. They go out of their way to accommodate the performers.”

And Bonaparte felt the love. Not only did a number of kids watching his magic show rush to tell him they recognized him from other events around town, but Larkin Smith said, for her, he was the best part of the day. She and her sister Pender and friend Anna Schuemann had stood in line for henna tattoos and seen Sir Mimealot and the aliens, but they didn’t compare. “Bonaparte is an amazing magician and he’s always hilarious,” she said. “It’s been a good day.”

Boat building event a sellout in the best way

BY CHRIS STEVENS

Longtime volunteer Jan

Lamkin feared the Arts Festival boat building event on July 4 would be a washout, but she was wrong.

“We thought with the rain today, forget about it,” she said shortly after handing out the last remaining boat building kit. “But everyone came out. We couldn’t have asked for better.”

A longtime staple of the Arts Festival, the event drew well over 140 hopeful builders, many of whom lined up in the rain hours later to race their creations across Redd’s Pond.

“We went through about 140 kits in an hour,” Ron Lamkin said.

Which resulted in some disappointed wannabe builders when the “sold out” sign went up. Organizer Dan Tucker said he’d like to order more kits but 140 is about all they can handle during race time.

“We did 175 one year and it was too stressful,” he said.

Samantha Levinson remembers taking part in the boat building event when she was a kid, and July 4 she was in the Lee Mansion garden carrying on the tradition with her children, Esther and Ryan Jeon.

Levinson joked that she participated when the boats were made of Styrofoam.

Tucker agreed they were large Styrofoam contraptions that only a few people actually got to

create.

Today’s models are sleek and wooden-bodied with bright sails that come from Tippecanoe Boats in Washington state. Paint is also provided so the builders can create their own one-of-a-kind racer.

Tucker has been heading up the event for the better part of 15 years.

“It’s marginally organized chaos, which is always fun,” he said when asked about his long tenure. “I’ve been a sailor my whole life, that’s another thing that keeps me coming back.”

Tucker said he also loves the intergenerational

aspect of the event, seeing parents and grandparents working with kids. “It’s fantastic.”

That intergenerational aspect extends to his own family as well. Tucker’s

son, Trent McKinnon Tucker, moved among the crowded tables offering tips to boatbuilders.

“I’ve been doing this basically my whole life,” said the 17-year-old.

“His sister is 23 and she’d probably say the same thing,” Dan Tucker said with a laugh.

But for Ben Singh, this was his first time creating a boat and he put his heart into it.

“We’re making the American Flag,” said the 5-year old who boldly added broad red and white stripes under his blanket of stars.

Ben’s dad, Teghpal, said

they had just moved to Marblehead six months ago and it was their first time attending the Festival.

“We’ve had loads of fun at the Children’s Festival,” he said, adding that Ben also painted a cod, planted seeds, created pottery and made a bracelet.

Ben planned to head to Redd’s Pond to race his boat later in the day, as did Winslow Lane, who was pretty confident his boat “Shark Fin” would take home a prize. His 3-yearold sister Greer was more philosophical.

“My boat is going to win its own way,” she said.

Jonathan Thompson wasn’t sure he was going to make it to Redd’s Pond to race his black and yellow “Bumblebee.”

“I might just stay home and race it in the pool,” he said.

The race

The gray skies opened up with a soft but steady rain at race time at Redd’s Pond which led to an unprecedented turn of events. There was no winner in the first heat of 8-year-olds and under.

“Well, that’s a first in my 20 years of doing this,” Tucker said. “We’ve never

not had a winner.” Tucker started the race, boats flew into the water but most went immediately starboard when they collected in a corner of the pond, refusing to cross the water to the finish line on the other side.

“No wind,” Tucker said by way of explanation after calling the race 15 minutes in.

State Rep. Jenny Armini positioned herself in a kayak in the middle of Redd’s Pond where she played boat wrangler, scooping up wayward vessels and delivering them back to their owners.

With the rain increasing and more bad weather in the forecast, Tucker decided to skip the second heat and do one final “all in” race, where everyone, regardless of age was invited to participate.

The small front moving through had kicked up enough wind that a winner was in fact declared in the final heat. Ryan Jeon, whose mom Samantha Levinson had raced all those years before him, brought home the prize, a festival T-shirt for his efforts, along with bragging rights.

CURRENT PHOTOS / CHRIS STEVENS

Boats afloat at Redd’s Pond during the Arts Festival regatta

Winslow Lane works on “Shark Fin.”

State Rep. Jenny Armini paddled a kayak in Redd’s Pond, rescuing boats that sailed off the mark.

CURRENT PHOTOS / CHRIS STEVENS

Bonaparte the Magician wows the crowd at the Street Festival on July 4.

Everyone got into the groove when the band “True North” took the stage at Crocker Park.

Mr. Nazo and his alien brigade surround the children at the Street Festival.

up late studying, but my main hope is to set a tone where we are cool, calm and collected as we face the challenges of this race,” Kane explained.

The officers feel that part of the experience of sailing to Halifax is to build decision-making knowledge at a time when everything is compressed, which helps midshipmen become better leaders.

“If everything goes smoothly, then we are not really learning but we have to adapt and overcome situations,” said John Tihansky, the older safety officer on the boat. “Being here offers a lot of perspective while we also are trying to race hard and get into the competitive side of things as we learn.”

Second place Wahoo, a Kerr 50, is helmed by midshipman Madelyn Ploch. Her teammate Jesse Wedlock said, “We do major crew work preparing for this race, but so far in our experience we have not had a heavy air race. However, we are super dedicated, and we want to do well.”

Prior to the start of the race, Blue Skies owner William Gunther of Essex, Connecticut, introduced his team, which includes Frank Bohlen, whose first Marblehead-to-Halifax race was in 1979.

Bohlen is best known for his understanding of the Gulf Stream, and he offers and helps sailors develop many winning Newport Bermuda race strategies. As an oceanographer, he knows the challenges of the Marblehead-to-Halifax race as do the other veterans on Blue Skies, including Ty Sweeter who has done four or five Halifax races, and Al Burnet whose first race was in the early 1970s.

“Our strategy will be to play the wind conditions versus the tide conditions at Cape Sable as there is always the risk that you

might be barreling along, then the tide changes and the wind goes to zero,” Gunther said. “I do love this race, and we have many people on our team who keep returning to it.”

Despite the currents, tides and ongoing challenges of this ocean race, what draws people back to it is the friendships and comradery that are part of the experience.

“Ocean racing is a very collegial sport, and it has to be introduced consistently to younger people. Once people have done it, they want to come back and do it again,” said Steve Sarazan, vice commodore of the Boston Yacht Club and chairman

of the event.

Commodore of the Boston Yacht Club Bruce Baker agreed.

“Distance racing is still considered a high-end event for sailors today,” he said. “We are the oldest offshore race to date between two countries, and we feel so lucky that there was so much interest in the race this year after a

four-year wait.”

Marblehead competitor and America’s Cup yacht designer J.B. Braun noted that the idea of having a big ocean adventure right in our backyard is so unique. Braun is competing this year double-handed with his son, Ryan, on board their boat Taylor 38 Eos. This is his fourth Marblehead-to-Halifax

race.

Marblehead sailor Doug Halsted, who will be racing with Seamus Hourihan on board the Gunboat 55 catamaran Thirst, agreed that he, too, is drawn to the challenge of ocean racing.

“This particular race looks like it will have a lot of upwind, light air sailing and that is hard work,” he said. ”However, there is a lot of camaraderie and tradition, and I believe I have done this race 12 times.”

Braun added that winning or sailing well is important at some level to almost everyone racing, and it is always an unknown with variables throughout the course.

“You never know what will happen, and you put your boat in the right place at the right time and you can do quite well,” Braun said.

At press time, J.B and Ryan Braun were in second place in their division.

Marblehead sailor Rick Williams, on board his J130, Chariad, noted, “Our team has trained, and we have prepared the boat. We have really been focusing our efforts and are fully prepared. We will be in an upwind race with upwind strategies. This means light wind will require a very high level of concentration for the helmsman. They must really focus.”

This will be Williams’ third Marblehead-toHalifax race.

“Doing well in the Marblehead-to-Halifax race has a certain cache,” said Martin Lentsch of Canada, who is racing aboard his Graves 37, Sassy, designed by Jim Taylor and built in Marblehead by Graves Yacht Yard. Lentsch’s first Halifax race was in 1987.

“We are very happy to be here and this race means a lot to me,” he said.

Yachting enthusiasts can follow the progress of the race at marbleheadtohalifax. com. Each competitor is equipped with a GPS transponder. The progress of each yacht can be tracked on the MHOR website, and you can replay the racing sequence during and after the race ends.

CURRENT PHOTOS/ NICOLE GOODHUE BOYD

Reveille manages sails in the ORR-6 class.

The Space Monkey crew works hard at the start of the ORR-1 class Marblehead-to-Halifax race

Rockets red where?

Dense fog dims fireworks display

An ‘unfortunate outcome,’ says Falk

BY WILLIAM J. DOWD

In what was expected to be a night filled with vibrant fireworks, hundreds of spectators around Marblehead Harbor were instead greeted by an unrelenting, dense fog.

The heavy fog that rolled in from the sea concealed the sky, reducing the anticipated fireworks to only bursts of color visible through the mist. This damp, foggy evening stood in stark contrast to the vibrant spectacle typically associated with the Marblehead fireworks and harbor illumination, casting a pall over the annual tradition — typically the bookend to a four-day celebration.

Despite rain and thunderstorm predictions, the fog turned out to be the unexpected spoiler for the fireworks launched from a barge at the mouth of Marblehead Harbor at 9:30 p.m.

Alexander Falk has chaired the Marblehead Fireworks Committee for 15 years.

“We have never had to use the rain date,” he said. “We had to cancel a total of three times (one hurricane that made it impossible for the barge to come up from Boston and two years of the pandemic).”

He said the decision to proceed on the Fourth of July was influenced by detailed weather forecasts and consultations with meteorologists.

“We did notice that the forecast now added the potential for fog starting after 11 p.m.,

but that was not our main concern, as the show would end well before then,” Falk told the Marblehead Current on Wednesday afternoon. “We were concerned about thunderstorms and rain ... and it looked like we were going to be OK on that front, with storms again likely dissipating by 8 p.m.”

He offered insight into the complexities of coordinating the fireworks display and the decision to ultimately launch them.

“The fact that we had a thick fog bank roll into Marblehead Harbor right at about 9:10 p.m. and got more and more dense throughout the fireworks show was the most unfortunate outcome,” Falk said. “[It was] not something that was predicted, nor could we have done anything about it at that time.”

He added, “Once the fireworks are loaded, there is no way to ‘unload’ them. You have to fire

them off.”

Marblehead and Lynn split the bill for the fireworks barge and its tows, requiring their fireworks shows to be on two consecutive days.

“There is simply no contingent or possibility for both towns having to use the rain date. It has never happened before, and it wouldn’t be possible,” said Falk. “In our fireworks permit applications with the United States Coast Guard and the Massachusetts Fire Marshal, we have to give the official date and the rain date, and there is no option to have a ‘second rain date,’ if the first one is used by the other town.’’

Alex Summers, a lifelong resident of Marblehead, reflected on the obscured fireworks display at the crowded Fort Beach.

“At least we had a lovely harbor illumination,” she said, finding a silver lining in the foggy spectacle. Her boyfriend,

Ryan Long, a first-time visitor, shared a similar sentiment.

“The entire harbor is illuminated by one color at a time,” Long noted. “It’s heartwarming to see everyone in the harbor focused and engaged at the same moment.”

For Summers, this was the first time in her life she had experienced a Fourth of July without a full view of the fireworks display.

The weather muffled the typical chorus of oohs and aahs that accompanies a Marblehead fireworks display.

The disappointment was evident among the spectators, who couldn’t catch a glimpse of the fireworks from popular vantage points such as the Causeway, Crocker Park or Clark’s Landing. As people departed the harborfront, many said they wished the event had been postponed.

Some people enjoyed the fog’s effect on the fireworks display,

Man admits to ‘hose incident’

Tuesday, June 20

7:57 a.m. Officers investigated a disturbance on Broughton Road.

8:32 a.m. A police officer met with a man who came into the police station to report that he had received an email informing him that his computer was infected with a virus. The email demanded payment in Bitcoin by threatening to release his personal

information from his computer. The man recognized this as a scam and did not respond.

11:59 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Miller Plaza for a past hit-andrun. He was met by the owner of a vehicle that had discovered a note left on it by the driver of a vehicle that had struck it. The officer wrote in his report that the damage was “very minor.” After speaking

of Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law G.L. c. 30A, §18, this public hearing of the Board is being conducted via remote participation. The public can attend this meeting via the remote participation platform through the following ways: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom. us/ j/87 87 83 472 82 ?pw d=e nlwRXd 3V2 xmdH E3c y92 SklT U1 BTUT 09

Dial in +1 646 558 8656 Meeting ID: 878 7834 7282 Passcode: 404568

Those only dialing in will not have access to the visual presentation at the meeting, but can follow along with the project materials available for download at https://www.marblehead.org under the zoning board of appeals page and the date of meeting. Members of the public attending this meeting virtually will be allowed to make comments if they wish to do so, during the portion of the hearing designated for public comment. Interested persons may also submit comment in writing electronically and send to lyonsl@marblehead.org and the comments, will be included in the record. Alan Lipkind Secretary

with both drivers, the officer filed a report.

12:21 p.m. An officer was dispatched to the lobby of the station to speak to a woman about missing jewelry, which she had filed a claim about with her insurance company back in February. She had discovered the items were missing when she had gone to look for a Marblehead hockey championship ring to show to family visiting from Texas. Along with the hockey ring valued at $300, also missing were a gold watch valued at $1,500, three gold chains valued at $300, one pearl necklace, also valued at $300, and one tennis bracelet valued at $1,000. Her best guess as to when she had last seen the items was six years ago, as they were not items she wears but rather items that had been tucked in the back of a dresser drawer. The woman explained that

she was just documenting the incident for insurance purposes.

3:08 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Pleasant Street to investigate a hitand-run. He was met with the owner of a vehicle that had been legally parked on Pleasant Street that had been sideswiped by another vehicle, leaving minor damage to her vehicle’s bumper and front left fender. An employee of the nearby Three Cod Tavern said he would check the business’ security video to see if the accident had been caught on camera.

5:04 p.m. An officer spoke at the station with a woman who said she was experiencing ongoing issues from her upstairs neighbors, a mother and daughter. The night before, the upstairs neighbors had let their unleashed dog loose outside, which caused the woman in the station’s dogs to start barking. The woman

Falk said.

“We received tremendous responses from people near the mouth of the harbor,” said Falk. “People called it ephemeral, whispy, serene, beautiful, etc., and we saw many amazing photos of the fireworks shining through the fog in a magical display of beauty and amplified colors.”

Before the fireworks, Maureen Dart Szymczak, a 38-year Marblehead resident, expressed her anticipation.

“I love every holiday — Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas — but I have to say, the Fourth of July and the Marblehead Festival of the Arts are my favorite. The array of activities is just fabulous,” she said, standing at the public dock next to the Landing Restaurant.

Earlier in the day, the Marblehead Festival of Arts engaged families with art exhibits, Street Festival, Literary Festival, concerts and model boat events. The Glover’s Marblehead Regiment added a historical touch to the day, with musket firings and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.

The Horribles Parade, another town tradition, was postponed to July 9 due to the weather forecast.

The Marblehead Fourth of July fireworks display and harbor illumination relies on private donations from individuals, local groups, and businesses to make this event spectacular.

Mail donations to Marblehead Fireworks Committee c/o Selectmen’s Office Abbot Hall 188 Washington Street Marblehead, MA 01945 or donate online at: https://bit.ly/3pBMAjz

believed the upstairs neighbors were doing this on purpose to harass her and her dogs. The woman added that earlier in the day she had received an email from the mother, purporting to be a ”notice of violations of bylaws.” The officer explained the process of obtaining a harassment prevention order to the woman.

Wednesday, June 21

5:56 a.m. An officer helped investigate a report of an outside odor of gas on Pleasant Street.

4:05 p.m. An officer spoke at the station with a woman who explained that around June 15 approximately 40,000 airline miles valued at $1,180 had been stolen from her American Airlines Advantage Account. She was currently working with a customer service representative to resolve the issue from whom she had received an email containing the name of a possible suspect. The officer planned to forward his report to detectives.

7:03 p.m. An officer assisted at the scene of a two-vehicle crash on Jersey Street.

Thursday, June 22

Police had a particularly busy day of traffic enforcement, issuing 15 citations and giving seven verbal warnings.

12:57 a.m. Officers investigated a report of

suspicious activity on Prince Street.

2:17 p.m. A cell phone caller on Bessom Street reported a case of larceny, forgery or fraud.

7:28 p.m. Peace was restored after a vehicle complaint on Washington Street.

Friday, June 23

12:43 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Pleasant Street to investigate a report of the latest incident in what a business owner said was part of a local man’s ongoing harassment campaign of him and his family. In previous incidents, the man had threatened the business owner’s family and vandalized their property. The officer forwarded his report to a detective for further investigation.

5:48 p.m. An officer was dispatched to Prospect Street, where the homeowner brought him to the back of her yard, which is on a hill with an attached porch. The porch, which overlooks the lower yard and is above the rear fence line, had an inflatable jacuzzi on it.

The woman stated that her kids and friends’ kids — 10 children in all — had been outside on the porch in bathing suits waiting for the jacuzzi to fill up so it could be used when two of the kids saw a man on the top floor of a neighboring building holding a red

COURTESY PHOTO / MEGHAN AMBERIK

Barely visible fireworks from Fort Beach on the Fourth of July.

Read the winning adult entries

The following submissions took first place in the adult categories in the 2023 Marblehead Festival of Arts Literary Festival writing competition. The winning poetry entry is published in its entirety. The nonfiction and fiction entries are excerpted. To read the complete submission, see marbleheadfestival.org.

NONFICTION ‘THE LITTLE YELLOW HOUSE,’

By Paula Tully Gold

The quiet and stillness of Merrillville was such that the hum and drone of an approaching plane could be heard inside our house. Planes flying over our neighborhood were rare and when one passed overhead, Mom rushed us out to the yard and we’d watch it inch toward some destination.

“Maybe Europe,” she would say with a hint of something in her voice I didn’t quite understand.

We craned back our heads until the white trail of vapor, hanging absolutely motionless against the vast blue sky, broke into tiny cloud pebbles, disappeared, and the hush returned to the Indiana summer day, hot and breathy with wildflowers.

The quiet, the clover, the hopeful sound of Mom’s voice — that is the Merrillville of the little yellow house.

The house wasn’t always yellow. One year, sometime after the snapdragons bloomed but before the sunflowers sprouted their giant heads, droopy and exhausted with August ennui, Dad painted over the bland white clapboards, splashing them in vibrant sunshine with redwood accents here and there. He laid a flagstone patio between the side door that opened into our doll-sized kitchen and the equally humble detached garage that housed a lawn mower, our bikes, paint and solvents, a gas can, two dented saucer sleds, a pointy lawn edging tool we weren’t allowed to touch, a chipped blue enamel bicycle pump, and

Police

From P. A12

cell phone, which they believed he was pointing out the window at all of them. The officer advised the woman and the two children that it was not a crime to hold a camera outside the window pointing in the area of the rear porch, which was above the fence line. The woman said she had never had any issues with her neighbor in the past. The officer advised her that he would document the incident and told her to call the station if she had any further issues. At 9 p.m., the officer and the officer-in-charge went back to the property and notified the woman that they would be going to the neighbor’s house, which they did. A visitor to the neighbor’s home acknowledged shooting videos with his phone, he said to document underage drinking. When one of the

all the usual garage junk save Bonnie and Clyde, the two white lab rats from Dad’s biology classroom who we were hosting for the summer, and an unassuming earthenware jug containing mercury. The how and why of the mercury remains a collective head scratcher within our family, but the assumption being it landed in our garage via the Merrillville Junior High School science department. While it was Dad who first demonstrated the magic in that jug to us, it was my younger brother, Guy, who kept pulling it out from underneath the folding card table that supported Bonnie and Clyde’s cage. Together, we’d crouch on our hinds, uncork it and coax a vibrating ribbon of silver onto the cement floor, mesmerized as it morphed into a breathtaking reflective puddle, glistening against the grime. We’d roll it around with our bare hands, break it apart and then glob it back together before smashing it into what seemed like a million tiny pellets. Dazzling shrapnel that, I guess, just scattered to the far corners of the garage. Mercurial. Self-possessed. That was before our parents knew any better, before anyone’s parents knew any better.

nnn

The sense of things going significantly awry weighed heavily on my 6-year-old psyche. On April 16, 1968, just 12 days after the murder of Martin Luther King Jr., Bobby Kennedy brought his presidential primary campaign to neighboring Gary, a once bustling city built on thousands of jobs provided by the hulking steel mills that lined Lake Michigan. By this time, the American steel industry was buckling under its own inefficient weight, and white flight out of Gary was in full migration formation. The election of Richard Hatcher as one of the first black mayors in America exacerbated this exodus. His campaign promises of

officers asked to see the footage, the man initially declined, saying he had not even looked at it himself.

But he then let the officer view two videos, which showed a male and female minor in bathing suits on the porch. The officers advised the man that if he had any issues with the neighbors next door, he should call the police for assistance. He was further advised that, even though it was not illegal, it was in “extreme poor taste” to be videotaping minors in bathing suits on someone else’s property and that it could be perceived in “unfavorable ways.”

9:59 p.m. Officers restored the peace after suspicious activity was reported on Old Salem Road.

11:47 p.m. Suspicious activity was reported on Rockcliff Road.

ending the segregation and neighborhood colonization of Gary’s significant black population sent flailing US Steel’s white welders and big wigs alike scurrying to Merrillville, a still sleepy town located eight miles straight down Broadway, due south. Crossing into Merrillville, the landscape itself changed, ill-defined and unsure of its purpose.

The urban grid and hustle bustle of Gary faded. In its place grew wild fields with lumpy clay-laden soil. Then, out of nowhere, the Y&W drive-in loomed into view, followed by Turkey Creek Pharmacy and then more feral fields, bulldozed and dug up with the promise of future homes. After that came the little strip of businesses that included Bonnie’s Grocery and the MerriBowl, before it all gave way, with a sigh of relief, to farmland.

(Read the rest of “The Little Yellow House” at marbleheadfestival.org.)

POETRY ‘DEEP INTO NOVEMBER

I’M NOT USUALLY THIS LIGHTHEARTED,’

By Laurie Rosen

neighbors. We loll on the beach or porches long after street lights switch on, knowing how wrong this is. Savoring it anyway.

FICTION ‘SMALL SECRETS,’

By Sara Reish Desmond

keeping her neck long and her chin up until the needle crackled through the dust and picked up the first track. She would take him by the hands, dance him around, holding him to her bosom. And sometimes she’d take him by the hands and do the Jitterbug.

color back to his face. He adored this ritual and felt closer to his mother than ever before, the two of them with their make-up and their small secrets, his mother with her brandy.

Across the street from the Dillers lived Lorne and Sheila Butterman.

11:52 p.m. An officer went to Humphrey Street to assist at the scene of POLICE, P. A14

but

petunias

hang on, confident against Halloween mums and purple kale.

The sun low and bright, illuminates browning cattails and faded phragmites skirting Swampscott’s few remaining wetland ponds. The sea gleams incandescent and untroubled — our dwindling shoreline not yet cobbled with granite stones and cracked shells typically jettisoned by storm tides this time of year. The climate crisis masquerades as a balmy November, lulls us into euphoria. Even the trees seem to relish this temperate twist, some still clutching their leaves, while maple, elm, oak proudly display naked limbs like late afternoon walkers in summery tee’s, bare arms swaying or waving to

It was the shoes Howard found most fascinating. The variety, the spectrum of styles and materials; sling back, open toe, wedge, bootie. Suede, patent, linen, brocade. His mother was a size six narrow devoted to keeping the boxes and organizing by season. As a child, he’d played in her closet, stepping into a pair of gold lamé mules, putting on her silk robe and leaving it beltless to trail behind him like a waterfall. His mother had emptied a dresser drawer and had filled it with discarded rings, missing clip-ons, broken chains, and antique pins. Upon returning from school, Howard raced to the drawer, slipped a ring over a chubby knuckle, draped chains and beads over his school uniform, played queen. Occasionally, when he was summoned to the dinner table, he forgot to remove a necklace, an earring, and his mother would discreetly gesture so that Howard would quickly remove it before Mr. Diller noticed.

When Howard’s brother, Pat, started off to school, Howard was left at home with his mother who found a kind of forlorn friendship in him— a friendship which sated her rescuing instinct and perhaps offered her temporary redemption from her own selfloathing. In her bedroom, she would create a canopy of clean white sheets still warm out of the dryer (They can’t have wrinkles, can they, Howard. No, sir. Not for us), tie one to the canopied bed, another to the ceiling fan until the room was ensconced in cotton sheets caught in the breeze of open windows. She would put on a record, glide through the room hung with sails,

remote participation. The public can attend this meeting via the remote participation platform through the following ways: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87878347282?pwd=enlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dial in+ 1 646 558 8656 Meeting ID: 878 7834 7282 Passcode: 404568 Those only dialing in will not have access to the visual presentation at the meeting, but can follow along with the project materials available for download at https://www.marblehead.org under the zoning board of appeals page and the date of meeting. Members of the public attending this meeting virtually will be allowed to make comments if they wish to do so, during the portion of the hearing designated for public comment. Interested persons may also submit comment in writing electronically and send to lyonsl@marblehead.org and the comments, will be included in the record Alan Lipkind Secretary

Howard might’ve learned his steps from her, might’ve learned just how to jive right on the balls of his feet and pop his heels and allow his legs to go akimbo. They would collapse on the bed and she would tickle him to tears until he would try on the British accent he’d learned because they spent other afternoons in the little theater downtown watching foreign films and he’d say in a protracted, but nevertheless convincing accent, “Please, mummy. Please.” She would relent and laugh proudly at her happy boy.

And occasionally, when she’d already gotten into the brandy and it was winter and it would take a wee bit longer for Howard’s brother or father to arrive home in the evening, she might place a forearm beneath his knees and another behind his head and scoop him up like a baby, too big to be carried this way, and place him on the bench of the vanity. She would continue the ruse, crafting the words in her own British accent, “M’lady, how can I be of service?”

And Howard, looking down at the silver tray of curious lady-things (a silver plated brush and comb and a hand-held mirror), was most excited by the peculiars: an eyelash curler, tweezers, an assortment of pots and cremes. He would freeze. He could not ask. But his mother knew. She sensed that his fascination ran deeper than these afternoons. And so his mother would start in with the big puff of powder that smelled like lilacs (a smell he’s never stopped missing) and ghost his face with it. She might twist the tube of lipstick, too, dab a red dot on his lower lip to bring some

Lorne worked long days as an attorney at the firm his wife, Sheila, had established, twentieth century woman that she was. On weekday mornings, when Sheila put on a freshly drycleaned suit and backed her Mercedes out of the driveway, she waved to the mothers at the bus stop, so coiffed at this early hour, all of them looking well-rested as they waited with their children who were immaculately dressed, their lunches tucked in with notes of encouragement.

After several years of indecision about starting a family and occasional, apathetic sex, Lorne and Sheila bore their only child, Laurel Marie Butterman. She had come too early, her veins spider-webbing beneath the surface of her pale skin in a way that left Sheila uneasy about being alone with it.

After several weeks, she found herself bored with the baby, but enlivened by a fresh curiosity about the domestic life of those mothers at the bus stop.

To Sheila Butterman, there was both intrigue and menace about this cadre of women, so polished in their daily routines — hoisting a younger sibling onto a hip, pushing strollers, bringing out lemonade for their children to sell.

For the first time since her childhood, in the absence of work and its subsequent ambition, Sheila Butterman needed a friend. So when Lorraine Diller brought over a silver rattle and bonnet for the infant, Sheila invited her in, let her hold the baby, accepted Lorraine Diller’s invitation to learn bridge at the Diller’s on Wednesday afternoons.

(Read the rest of “Small Secrets” at marbleheadfestival.org.)

COMMISSION

The Marblehead Conservation Commission will hold a VIRTUAL (zoom) public hearing beginning at or after 7:00 P.M. on July 13, 2023 on an application filed by Scott Patrowicz, P.E., Patrowicz Land Development Engineering (applicant), on behalf of Kim Belf et al. (owner), for a proposed new single-family house, demolition of an existing house, site work/ landscaping at 38 Crestwood Road (Map 77, Parcel 5) in an area subject to the Wetlands Protection Act and the Marblehead Wetlands Protection Bylaw This hearing will be held remotely in accordance with Governor Baker ’s March 12, 2020 Order Superseding Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law G.L. c.30A, section 18, and the Governor ’s March 15, 2020 Order imposing strict limitation on the number of people that may gather in one place. Request to make an appointment to review plans and information by emailing: engineers@marblehead.org. For any questions, please call (781) 631-1529. Details on how to access

Don’t forget self-care this summer

BY GINA M. RABBITT, MENTAL HEALTH CLINICIAN

School is out. The pools are open. The smell of grilling saturates the neighborhoods in the evening and on the weekends. Thank goodness for summertime.

However, summer does not always mean pleasure and fun times for everyone. One constant that rings true is that our mental health should not take a break. Seasonal affective disorder is often perceived to set in during the winter months, but depression in the summer has been documented.

We may feel anxious about what our kids are doing or not doing. Many of us continue to worry about our finances and how to pay for camp or mini-family trips.

Relationships are difficult no matter what the time of year, as well as family dynamics which often change in the summer as kids are on break from college and returning home. As a result of these gnawing pains, indulging in alcohol or other mindaltering substances can become more commonplace.

Perhaps now more than ever, we must be vigilant of our overall well-being and prioritize our mental health. Let us remember that some people might have a different reality of these leisurely months ahead.

The purpose of this

article is to remind the community of Marblehead to be grateful that you live near some of the most beautiful beaches. A community on a peninsula; it seems like the perfect place to spend your time. Marblehead is full of history, culture, fun and beauty and let us be reminded to take a step back to basics and make time for summertime.

Emotional well-being

During the summer months we frequently find ourselves spread thin. A multitude of events and invites flood our calendar, but prioritize these events and understand that it is okay to say no. Try setting healthy boundaries as compared to overextending yourself.

When we over-commit ourselves we compromise our mindfulness. Being present is much more than arriving at the party, but instead being mindful of the moments you share. Set your emotions free. Take in the sights and sounds of your whereabouts and actively listen and communicate with others.

For those who feel anxious or jittery, try channeling your anxiety and apprehensions through gardening or listening to the many sounds of the birds. Take a tour of the Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary on Marblehead Neck, visit Abbott Hall and the Marblehead Museum to learn about the history and culture of our town.

Spend a day at the zoo and feed a giraffe or take a trip to the New England Aquarium or the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem.

For those of you who like to live on the edge, cross the border of New Hampshire and be dazed by Canobie Lake Park or stroll the strip at Hampton Beach and stay the evening for a concert at the Casino Ballroom.

Check with your employers, local stores and/or the actual venue for discounted tickets, group rates and free festivals and events for the entire family.

Financial well-being

Summer is a time when people tend to treat themselves, whether it is splurging on a vacation, staycation or having a few moonlit dinners.

To avoid financial woes, create a summer fun budget. This helps to tally your spending habits and allows for creativity. Instead of dining harborside, enjoy a picnic at the park or check your local paper for family-friendly activities that won’t break the bank.

On those rainy days and breezy nights, curl up with a good book; you have full permission to get lost in a

steamy, summer romance novel. Although many of us like to have time for vacations or staycations, the bills still need to get paid.

For those who have retired, we might feel a sense of integrity by giving back to the community through volunteer work in town or for a foundation or organization you hold near and dear. Research has indicated that those who give back to the community and generate knowledge and goodness feel a sense of integrity and fulfillment as compared to isolation and despair.

Physical well-being

Our physical health is something we try to focus on year-round. Summer can make it easier to get in a daily dose of exercise.

Research indicates that exercise releases natural endorphins, including serotonin and dopamine. Instead of driving, ride a bike or walk if you are able, try some jumping jacks to get your adrenaline going or take a morning jog before it gets too hot.

Whether you are a pool person, or a lover of the ocean and lakes, swimming is great exercise and can help with rehabilitation

and general body movement. You might just notice a change in mood, energy level and your overall disposition.

A day in the water can tire a person out, especially with the sun’s rays upon us. It can be quite soothing to put your sun-kissed self to rest and get under the cool bed sheets, as the breeze blows in through the window.

The importance of adequate sleep has been determined through sleep studies and researchers alike. Studies show that going to bed and waking at the same time each day makes for a healthy sleep cycle and balances our circadian rhythm.

Events full of food, fun and libations, as well as longer days and nights, can contribute to less sleep in the summer, so it is important to limit alcohol intake prior to bedtime and commit to a healthy bed routine that makes you feel good.

Reflections

As we reflect on this article, let us remind ourselves of what is truly important.

Yes, summer is full of exciting activities, opportunities, and gatherings. It is evident that our beautiful town of Marblehead has something to satisfy everyone in the family, including our fur babies.

Surrounding ourselves with friends and family can be exhilarating but it can also be exhausting.

Structure and balance between taking care of others and taking care of yourself is hugely important. We encourage you to utilize the resources that are offered in your community. One day you might find that the park is perfect for your picnic and another day it might be where you practice yoga, meditate or give yourself some freedom from the chaos.

We might feel pressured to pack in as much summertime fun in these short months, but do not forget to check your mental health and overall well-being.

We ask those of you who are planners, to plan for some downtime. To our creatures of habit, do something out of the ordinary. Allow yourself to make choices and create special moments. Life is about quality and knowing your boundaries. Before you know it, the nights will be getting cooler and those back-to-school signs will appear. Take the time to cherish these blissful months, but never lose sight of yourself.

Marblehead Cares is a monthly column written by members of the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force, which provides leadership and a community-wide focus by engaging providers, residents of all ages and the greater Marblehead community in mental health and wellness initiatives. To learn more, visit marbleheadcares.org/

a vehicle crash. When he arrived, the Fire Department and EMS were already on scene. The officer found a white Audi that appeared to have crashed head on into a telephone pole directly in front of 236 Humphrey St. Its airbags were deployed, and the vehicle and pole appeared to have significant damage. After being determined not to have serious injuries by EMS, the driver told the officer that he was traveling inbound on Humphrey Street and veered off the road and crashed into the pole. The officer then spoke with a witness who

had been driving outbound on Humphrey Street when he saw the white Audi veer off the road and crash. He then pulled over to see if the driver was OK. The Light Department was called to the scene to assess the damage to the pole.

Saturday, June 24

9:38 a.m. Officers investigated a disturbance reported on Pleasant Street.

10:08 a.m. An officer responded to Terry’s Ice Cream, where the owner and his niece reported that they were being recorded and harassed by a man in a vehicle that was backing out of a parking space

property with less than the required lot area, side setback, open area, parking and exceeds the maximum allowable height located at 25 Lee Street in the Central Residence and Shoreline Central Residence District. The new construction will be within the side yard setback, and further reduce the open. This hearing is held in accordance with the provisions of the Marblehead Zoning Bylaw and Chapter 40A of the General Laws as amended and Pursuant to Governor Baker ’s Order allowing suspension of Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law G.L. c. 30A, §18, this public hearing of the Board is being conducted via remote participation The public can attend this meeting via the remote participation platform through the following ways: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87878347282?pwd=enlwRXd3V2xmdHE3cy92SklTU1BTUT09 Dial in+ 1 646 558 8656 Meeting ID: 878 7834 7282 Passcode: 404568 Those only dialing in will not have access to the visual presentation at the meeting, but can follow along with the project materials available for download at https://www.marblehead.org under the zoning board of appeals page and the date of meeting. Members of the public attending this meeting virtually will be allowed to make comments if they wish to do so, during the portion of the hearing designated for public comment. Interested persons may also submit comment in writing electronically and send to lyonsl@marblehead.org and the comments, will be included in the record Alan Lipkind Secretary

behind Terry’s. The driver, who was known to the officer, rolled down the window and agreed to speak with the officer about the ongoing civil disputes he and his wife, who owned the business next door, were having with the Terry’s Ice Cream owner.

The man explained that he was documenting ice cream containers that had been left in an improper place so he could report them to the Marblehead Board of Health. The officer explained that, in the future, the man should call police to resolve the issue rather than initiate a confrontation. Similar advice was given to the

owner of Terry’s and his niece. All of them said they were familiar with the process of obtaining a harassment prevention order from previous incidents.

10:39 a.m. An officer was dispatched to Pond Street to mediate an ongoing neighbor dispute.

The caller brought the officer to the back of her yard to show him her neighbor’s deck, which sits above the caller’s deck. The caller explained that her neighbor has plants above her deck that drip water down onto her deck. The caller then showed the officer under the deck where she had raked out

items of trash that she believed her neighbor had put there. The officer asked the caller if she had tried speaking with her neighbor about the dripping plants, and the caller replied that her neighbor would not speak to her. Th e officer then went to the neighbor’s apartment. The neighbor, who was the building manager, invited the officer into her home and explained that the situation with her neighbor had been going on for years. The building manager told the officer that she had tried reasoning with the other woman many times, but she is unwilling to work with her. The building manager said she was consulting with a lawyer and otherwise taking the proper steps to resolve the problem. The officer advised her to keep to herself and otherwise continue with those steps.

7:45 p.m. An officer went back to Pond Street to speak once again to a woman about the problems she was having with her neighbor. The update was that the caller had been on her back deck with her dogs when her neighbor walked by and began speaking to her. The woman showed the officer video footage of the interaction recorded by her Ring camera, although it was unclear what was said. The woman began to speak about her neighbor’s various actions but was unable to paint a clear picture of what had happened, according to the officer. Eventually, the woman explained that her neighbor had been

storing her kayaks under her deck, and she wanted them removed. She also stated that her neighbor continuously slams the front door, which upsets her. The officer advised the woman that it was a civil matter and explained the process of obtaining a harassment prevention order. Another officer then arrived, and the woman said she wanted the officer to note that she “owns 60% of the building.” She proceeded to describe other random issues with her neighbor over the past few days. Then abruptly, the woman stood up and walked into her home, ending the conversation.

Sunday, June 25 12:24 a.m. Officers were dispatched to the 7-Eleven convenience store on Pleasant Street to investigate a report that the store was open with no employee inside. Upon their arrival, the officers found that the lights in the store were half on and half off, and the door was open with the lock bolt extended out. The officers searched the store and confirmed that there were no employees on site. They did find a schedule that showed an employee had been scheduled to work the overnight shift but apparently had not shown up. The officers tried to lock the doors and leave, but they were unable to do so. At 1:21 a.m., an assistant manager arrived to relieve the officers of minding the store.

3:37 a.m. Officers investigated a report of suspicious activity on Pleasant and Gerry

Pasta primavera: Better in summer

BY LINDA BASSETT

Most of us are familiar with Botticelli’s Venus standing on an open seashell, gentle breezes brushing her silky curls. The goddess recurs in artforms from classical poetry to a Joan Baez song. Obsessed, the artist painted her again and again, most notably in “Primavera,” a portrait of fullblown spring, with goddesses, budding flowers and fruits, in the air. Botanists counted over 100 species of vegetation in that background.

Pasta alla primavera, a chefs’ inclusion in that canon, works better in a New England summer than in still-freezing spring. The Saturday Farmers’ Market offers tender fresh vegetables to be seasoned, sauced and twirled with long strands of pasta.

Imagine Venus and her dancing goddess buddies dining on this, flutes of bubbly in hand, after a hard day tossing flower buds in the air.

A head waiter created the original recipe in 1970, in defiance of a French chef who refused to allow pasta in his

Summer is the best time to dive into pasta primavera

kitchen. He pulled a rolling cart tableside and created his own Broadway show, tossing pasta and vegetables right in the pan. Word spread; reservations soared; fame ensued. In decades since, chefs added beets, sausages, even whole cloves of garlic to this gentle vegetarian dish. (No!) This hasn’t slowed its popularity.

It’s easy to do at home remembering three basics:

First, primavera implies tender shoots — snap peas, tiny green beans, slender asparagus spears, baby squashes.

Second, no flour thickener! Make the sauce light, gauzy, ethereal as dandelion fluff on soft wind.

Third, no garlic. Garlic enhances sturdy autumn and winter soups, stews, thick tomato sauces. It overwhelms spring veggies. If taste buds need more depth, check the Saturday Farmers’ Market for chives, garlic scapes or zucchini flowers to scatter over the top, as if a goddess had left a golden trail.

ON COOKING PASTA: Fill a pot with 4 quarts of water. That much! Pasta must dance in the pot. When it hits a mad, rolling boil, add a handful of salt. A whole handful! Add a pound of pasta. The bubbles will subside. Stir; cover the pot partially; wait until bubbles flare again. Uncover. Stir again. Cook, uncovered, 2 minutes

short of the time directed on the box. The texture should be al dente – tender, slightly chewy, not mushy. Drain in a colander. Ready for sauce!

PASTA PRIMAVERA

MAKES 6 MAIN DISHES, 8 FIRSTCOURSE SERVINGS.

These directions seem long, but you need only one pot of water, and a few seconds, to tenderize each vegetable. Individually. Why? Because they each cook at a different speed. Using a slotted spoon, scoop them out as they cook (al dente, tender but with some texture) into a bowl of ice water. With the pot still boiling, add the next vegetable, etc. (Don’t sweat one or two pieces stranded in the water – not half a dozen. Just add the next veggie when the pot bubbles again.)

`

1 small bunch broccoli, in tiny florets

` 1 small bunch tiny green beans

` 8 thin asparagus spears, cut into ½-inch pieces

` 6 new carrots, thinly sliced with a vegetable peeler

` ¾ cup snap (sugar) peas, de-ribbed if needed

`

4 tablespoons olive oil

` 6-8 fresh basil leaves, torn

`

1 pound linguine or fettuccine, cooked and drained

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

`

` 2 tablespoons hot water

`

¼ to ½ cup heavy cream, as needed

2/3 cup grated parmesan

`

` Lightly toasted pine nuts, snipped chives, zucchini blossoms, garlic scapes (optional) Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt. When it bubbles like it’s laughing, add one veggie at a time - broccoli, green beans, asparagus, carrot slivers and snap peas to the pot, your choice. Cook each one individually until tender-crisp, 1 to 3 minutes. Then remove with a slotted spoon to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. (Don’t empty the pot and start over with each vegetable.)

Cook the pasta in a separate pot while you blanch the veggies. Coat the bottom of a very large, stick-proof skillet with 2 tablespoons combined butter and olive oil. Turn off the heat; stir in the basil and the veggies to re-warm.

Add butter, heavy cream, parmesan and water, if the sauce seems too thick, to the skillet. Stir over low heat until smooth. Add half the cooked pasta to the pan; toss. Add remaining pasta. Toss again. The sauce should coat each strand. Plate on a large serving platter. If you like, sprinkle with optional garnishes, as listed above.

Meet Current intern Claire Tips

BY KRIS OLSON

That 2022 Marblehead High School graduate Claire Tips wound up at Indiana University is unsurprising. Both of her parents went there, after all.

But Tips did more than just become a Hoosier. She was one of 25 incoming students chosen for the school’s exclusive journalism honors program named for Ernie Pyle, the Indiana native whose reporting from the front lines of World War II earned him a Pulitzer Prize. Pyle was killed in action during the Battle of Okinawa on April 18, 1945.

As an Ernie Pyle Scholar, Tips spent part of her sophomore year at the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida, receiving training on media ethics and writing, among other topics.

Next summer, Tips will head to London for an internship with a local media organization, along with some classroom learning and cultural enrichment.

But in the meantime, the Current will continue to benefit from her efforts as its first summer intern.

Tips’ internship is being funded by a grant from the Carole Remick Foundation. The foundation was established to honor the wishes of Remick, a Marblehead resident and high school English teacher who, after earning her master’s degree, became a professor at UMass Boston, where she created a journalism program to encourage minority students to enter the field.

To that end, Remick established the New England High School Journalism Collaborative in 1987, which remains the Remick Foundation’s flagship program. Students selected for the NEHSJC participate in a weeklong workshop in June based at Remick’s alma mater, Regis College in Weston, reporting and writing stories for a laboratory newspaper and a multimedia site.

The following is a transcript of a conversation with Tips, edited for length and clarity.

Q. Why did you choose to go the journalism route in college? When I applied [to IU], I also applied for a ton of scholarships, just to see if I could get any, and I got this letter in the mail accepting me into the Ernie Pyle scholarship program. Ernie Pyle is a staple in Indiana. They love him there, and they have statues of him all over campus. Next summer, it’ll just be the 25 of us with our advisor, and we’ll each get an internship and work in London for six to eight weeks. We also go to Florida and do a workshop down there during spring break. There’s also a weekend Chicago trip that is optional, and I know a few of my friends who’ve done it, and they loved it. It’s been a great way to have access to professionals in the field.

Q: What are some of your favorite things that you’ve been able to write about on campus? I danced for 12 years with the Boston Ballet, and I did a summer intensive with the Joffrey Ballet, so ballet was a big part of my life for a long time. There is a ballet studio at IU. When I was dancing, I was always told, “You have to join a company at age 18. You have to do a pre-professional program. You have to be homeschooled, and then you’ll retire by the time you’re 30.” That just seemed so daunting, and I always wanted to go to college.

When I heard that there was a ballet school at IU, I was like, “That’s interesting.” That was against what I was told. For one of my projects, my partner in the class and I went and interviewed a dancer who attended the school, and then I did a Zoom call interview with one of the girls that I danced with at Joffrey and compared and contrasted their two experiences.

I love personal, on-street interviews. We have a main road right off of campus where a lot of the restaurants and coffee shops are. Every spring and summer, they close off the street for outdoor seating. We had talked to our professor in class, and

he said it was due to a COVID response. It’s become so much part of the atmosphere, they’ve done it annually since then.

We were interviewing people on the street, and we asked this professor-looking guy if he wanted an interview, and he said yes. In the middle of the interview, he said [of the COVID response origin of the outdoor seating], “That’s not right. You guys need to do your research.”

My partner, who was behind the camera, asked, “Are you a professor here?”

He was like, “Yes, I am the director of the journalism program.”

Of course, the color drained from our faces. We went back and we talked to our professor, and he went and found the reports from the council meetings of the town of Bloomington and found that actually we were right.

We spent a lot of time during our next class talking about what you do when someone’s very confident in what they’re saying, but it’s not true. You always just go to the documents.

Q: What have you been doing with the Current so far? I’ve been working a lot with social media, and that’s something that I wasn’t really doing in school. But I think it’s so important, especially nowadays with a lot of media going digital and especially with my generation using social media as their news source.

Also, working in the newsroom and going out and collecting stories and interviewing and taking photos, which I wasn’t really doing in school. That was more of a hobby, but we have a family friend who is a professional photographer, and she was giving me some tips the other day on how to use the camera to the best of my ability.

Working with the Current — such a new news outlet — I get to see things from the ground up. I feel like that is something that I wouldn’t get anywhere else. I get to wear a lot of hats, which is fun too. I get to do a lot of things, meet a bunch of people, and I get to go out in the field and be hands on. I love that about it.

Q: If you could have any job in the journalism world, what would that be? I know that I love writing, but I did just recently go to New York, and we have a family friend who works at ABC. She just graduated from Northwestern as a journalism student, and she’s going back soon to do grad school and get her business degree because she wants to go higher up in the producing end of it. She used to work on set at “Good Morning America.” My dad and I got to see the show, and it was so cool. I have always loved broadcast journalism, but I’ve never actually been a part of it. I think this coming semester I might want to look into that a little bit more because it was so exciting seeing everything that goes into putting on a show like that. They gave us a copy of the rundown, and everything is timed exactly down to the second. You have to be really quick if something changes. So, hopefully something in broadcast journalism. We’ll see.

Q: What would you say to people who think young people no longer care about the news? I think that the Ernie Pyle scholars are living proof that my generation still cares very much about the news. But I would also say, when I talk to people and tell them that I’m majoring in journalism, they’ll be like, “Oh, that’s a dying profession.” I hate when people say that because the media has such an impact on their lives. I mean, when they wake up in the morning and they turn on The Weather Channel, that’s journalism.

My generation, the first thing we do when we wake up in the morning is usually look at our phones and see what’s going on. You see kids who are passionate about certain political stances, they will repost things that news outlets post on their social media.

I think that kids are very passionate about the news nowadays. It’s just on a different platform, and it just looks a little different.

Claire Tips

Marblehead’s best bets July 12-19

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

Glover’s Regiment encampment

Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Glover’s Regiment establishes a colonial camp at Fort Sewall, complete with tents, cooking fires, craft activities and merchants. The public is invited to visit, ask questions and purchase reproduction 18th-century goods, including pottery, lanterns, jewelry, furniture, clothing and more. More info at gloversregiment.org.

Jazz in the Garden

Sunday, July 16, 2 p.m.-4 p.m.

The Tom Palance Quartet (featuring trumpet, bass and piano) will play in the garden at 10 Central St. Reserve your seat in the shade by mailing a check to Margi Flint, 10 Central St., Marblehead. Cost is $25-$35.

‘Interconnected’ artist talk and exhibit

Saturday, July 15, 3 p.m.

Meet artist Denise Driscoll, whose exhibit “Interconnected” debuts at the ARTI Gallery, 70 Washington St. The exhibit features 10 years of abstract paintings by Driscoll. Whether color-coding DNA in formal grids, encrusting loops with beadlike dots or deconstructing overlapping nets of ovals, the artist uses color and pattern to create meditations on relationships. arti-gallery.com/

Adult Crafternoon: Flower jar lanterns

Tuesday, July 18, 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Come create decorative flower jar lanterns at Adult Craternoon at the Abbot Public Library, now at the Eveleth School, 3 Brook Rd. All materials are provided by the library. The event is free and limited to 10 people. Register at abbotlibrary.org.

Turning Memories into Memoirs…

WRITERS C W CAMDEN