04.10.2024 – Volume 2, Issue 20

Teachers to act for paid parental leave

BY LEIGH BLANDER

This week, Marblehead teachers are joining 5,000 educators across the North Shore taking action for paid parental leave.

Educators from 11 districts are planning a coordinated series of morning demonstrations.

Marblehead teachers were set to meet Thursday, April 11 outside their schools and

walk in together “for fair and just parental leave,” according to the Marblehead Educators Association, the local union.

The teachers staged a similar “walk in” in January to support four Glover School educators placed on paid leave after a student restraint incident.

“The MEA stands in solidarity with the North Shore Educators United and its 5,000 members during our week of action, as we

rally for paid parental leave,” according to an MEA statement sent to the Current. “One of the MEA’s core priorities for collective bargaining with the School Committee is reaching an agreement on humane and equitable parental leave policies.”

The Marblehead teachers’ contract expires this summer.

Around town, people stop to witness eclipse

BY LEIGH BLANDER AND WILL DOWD

Monday afternoon, students and adults across Marblehead dropped what they were doing and looked to the sky during an historic eclipse that blocked 93% of the sun locally. Students streamed out of schools wearing their eclipse glasses, and families and friends gathered at spots around town.

Fourth grader Jack Lawler stepped out the front door of the Village School with his protective glasses in place. “We learned that an eclipse is when the moon and sun line up and it gets dark during the day,” Lawler explained. Fourth grader Jaelyn Wilcock was also wearing her glasses and explained that an eclipse is when “the sun and moon mix together.” A group of artists gathered at Devereux Beach to experience the eclipse together. They brought themed snacks, including Oreos, Orbit gum,

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Before Monday’s eclipse, Mother Nature had a few surprises in store for Marblehead last week. On Thursday, an April nor’easter hit with snow, rain, high winds and crashing waves. Streets were closed while crews cleared debris.

Then on Friday, a 4.7 magnitude earthquake, centered in New Jersey, rattled Marblehead. There were no reports of damage in town, according to police. “It felt like maybe my washing machine was off balance in the basement beneath me, a steady shaking for 10 seconds or so,” Cindy Schieffer of Marblehead told the Current. “It even woke my sleeping dog, who started barking.” Artist Kristen Nyberg was in her studio when “everything just started to rattle.”

“I have metal rulers hanging on a wall, and they all started to rattle,” she said. “And I have various glass bottles on a shelf, and they started to rattle and tinkle. It was like something out of a movie.” Other residents took to social media to describe “pictures rattling on walls.”

Interim Superintendent Theresa McGuinness updated the School Committee last week about mold discovered at the high school, linked to several roof leaks throughout the building.

Town Meeting approved funds for the roof replacement in 2022. After various delays, it is now out to bid. McGuinness said the first part of the project would not be completed until the summer of 2025.

“Earlier this winter, in one classroom a concealed source of mold was identified behind a sink and removed,” McGuinness said. “As in all situations, our response to mold is to identify, remove the impacted area, treat the area and replace the damaged material such as the wall and insulation.

Principal (Michele) Carlson made arrangements to move the teacher and class to an alternative location within the school. The area where it was found is not currently being used as a classroom.”

The district has contracted with two companies to perform tests in different areas of the high school, McGuinness said. Air quality tests have also been performed, determining that the mold “was not airborne” and not at dangerous levels.

At a budget hearing last month, Village teacher Jonathan Heller, who co-leads the teachers union, spoke about the mold.

“We learned that this kind of mold feeds and spreads quickly and is highly dangerous,” Heller said. “It can trigger infections,

CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER

Village School fourth grader Jack Lawler stared at the sky through his eclipse glasses.

COURTESY PHOTO

In January, teachers showed their support for four Glover educators placed on paid leave after a student restraint incident by meeting outside their schools and walking in together.

BY WILL DOWD

Marblehead’s police and fire departments are facing a new reality as the town’s $4.2 million budget deficit impacts public safety services and puts increasing pressure on strained resources.

That reality came through loud and clear during multiple budget meetings with Finance Committee members as they reviewed the budgets of departments under the Select Board’s jurisdiction.

Fire Chief Jason Gilliland highlighted his department’s precarious position as it faced the loss of three positions last year, operating with a minimum of nine staff members per shift instead of the normal staffing of ten and one short of the standard put forward by the National Fire Protection Association.

“Those are the numbers we’ve always felt keep the firefighters safe,” Gilliland said, emphasizing that being understaffed stretches the department thin in maintaining safe operations. “We are very, very tight. Which means that when you don’t have a budgeted position, any type of change in personnel greatly affects operations,” Gilliland said, emphasizing the critical nature of maintaining staffing levels to ensure the safety and quality of service to the community. “If we have any more staff reductions, we won’t be able to give or receive mutual aid because we won’t have the bodies to do it.”

Concern exists that if further cuts are needed next fiscal year, the Franklin Street fire station may need to be closed. That could

jeopardize response times to fires in the historic part of town.

“I lived through a time before where we did close, Franklin Street,” Gilliland said, “and you don’t want Franklin Street closed up especially if you get a fire down the lower part of town.”

Similarly, the Police Department is grappling with its own challenges. With a current force of 30 officers out of the full complement of 32, the department is already operating under strain, a situation exacerbated by a 16-17% increase in service calls over the past year.

Police Chief Dennis King said he is trying to get somebody to the police academy right now.

“There are a lot of effects on staffing and under staffing as it relates to overtime,” King explained. “We are anticipating a greater number of overtime hours.”

He voiced concerns about the department’s capacity to maintain operational levels.

“Right now today we’re running at 30 [officers],” said King. “Also if we had, for example, an injury or retirement, it becomes very difficult to keep the operations at the same level.”

Their testimony underscored the town’s financial position as rising expenses, stagnant tax revenue and a structural deficit threaten to undermine the town’s financial stability.

The town projects revenue for the upcoming fiscal year at $107 million, while the proposed budget for fiscal 2025 stands at $111 million, leaving a daunting $4.2 million gap. Town Finance Director Aleesha Nunley Benjamin outlined the challenges faced by the town, including a 7% increase in health insurance costs, escalating retirement expenses, a staggering 20.66% jump in trash fees and a 5% annual rise in contractual obligations.

The Department of Public Works has also felt the pinch, too, with head Amy McHugh saying limited manpower and aging equipment have hindered the department’s ability to respond to residents’ requests.

“We are really trying to restructure how the whole department works so you have a better hierarchy [where] we have more people who can take more responsibility,” said McHugh. In an effort to mitigate

service reductions, the town has temporarily shifted some expenses to department revolving funds. The Council on Aging and the Harbormaster’s Office have turned to grants and private funding to supplement their budgets, with Harbormaster Mark Souza exploring ways to generate additional revenue through increased fees like mooring fees.

To address the structural deficit, Marblehead is considering a multifaceted approach. Proposed measures include $22,000 in local fee hikes and a potential room tax (up to 6%) and 0.75% meals tax, which could generate $400,000 in revenue.

“Our goal is to rebuild our organization to generate the revenues needed to support both the schools and the town, but it will take time and cooperation from all departments,” Kezer said.

As part of the town’s deficit reduction plan, half of the $4.2 million shortfall will be assigned to schools. The town side of Marblehead’s local government has opted not to seek a general Proposition 2 ½ tax override this year. So far, the School Committee has not proposed an override.

Finance Committee Chair Alec Goolsby called on both town and school departments to develop long-term strategies to tackle the structural deficit.

“Marblehead needs a [longterm] plan to continue to be developed,” Goolsby said.

BY WILL DOWD

The Select Board recently approved $79,000 in funding to develop a town-wide bicycle and pedestrian plan, a move that local officials and advocates say will help guide future investments and improvements for non-motorized transportation.

The plan, which will be developed by an outside consultant, aims to identify and prioritize bicycle infrastructure projects based on the needs of cyclists. It will also look at ways to improve the overall environment for bicyclists in Marblehead, where narrow, winding streets and centuries-old architecture pose challenges.

“This is going to be a holistic plan that really reaches into every form that might be used in a public way,” said Amy McHugh, superintendent of the Marblehead Department of Public Works. “Do I think we’re going to be completely overwhelmed with how much work we have to do to get to that? Yes.”

She added, “And the other issue is: Can we get it done? I mean, we’re an old town with a lot of constraints.”

Despite the challenges, McHugh said the plan will enable important conversations with residents about the future of biking and walking in Marblehead. She noted that currently, the only dedicated bicycle infrastructure in town is the rail trail.

“The rail trail is a shared-use area and this includes bicycles,” McHugh said. “But these are suggestions and enable us to start talking and reaching out to residents. My hope is that we can get to all the people and that... I

appreciate that guy that stands up and says he doesn’t want to see, you know, painted white [bike lanes] everywhere.”

Rick Smyers, a member of the Marblehead Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, has been an advocate for bicycle infrastructure and says a plan will be beneficial.

“Different issues come up. And they’re usually very local; it’s a single block or an intersection, where there’s an issue or a problem that local residents want addressed,” Smyers said. “And it’s hard to address them one at a time without understanding how they all fit together.”

In February, Smyers presented a proposal to the committee for a number of bike rack locations around town, seeing an opportunity to encourage more cycling by providing secure parking options. The committee voted to apply for Complete Streets funding to acquire the racks.

But the following month, Smyers learned that the Rotary Club was willing to fund some of the bike racks through donations, reducing the need for town funding. He has since been working with Logan Casey,

Marblehead’s sustainability coordinator, to leverage additional funding through the state’s Transportation Improvement Program.

“The latest I have is that Rotary will fund the acquisition of two bike racks. And then the Transportation Improvement Program, it’s a state program, will match that,” Smyers said. “They have an 80/20 matching program, so this could really multiply the impact of the Rotary donation.”

Casey said the bicycle plan is one of the final pieces needed to define Marblehead’s multimodal transportation priorities, along with a recently completed sidewalk plan. Having these plans in place will better position the town to apply for state and federal grants aimed at improving walkability and bikeability.

The goal is for the bicycle plan to provide clear guidance on where infrastructure like bike lanes would be most appropriate and feasible in Marblehead, given the town’s physical constraints and historic character.

Local advocates see the plan as a crucial step towards making Marblehead a safer and more accessible place for cyclists and pedestrians of all ages and abilities.

They hope it will lead to a more connected network of bike routes that link key destinations around town, from the historic downtown to the scenic harbor and beaches.

Dan Shuman, owner of Marblehead Cycles, welcomed the news of the comprehensive plan.

“We should of done it a long time ago,” he told the Current. Shuman served on a bicycle planning committee in Salem, and said he could see bike lanes painted on Marblehead’s entrance corridors like Humphrey Street and Tedesco Street.

“There might be a few spots downtown that we do things, like shared markings on the road,” he said.

But officials also acknowledge that building support for bike infrastructure can be challenging in a community, especially when it comes to the town’s traditional character and aesthetics.

With the funding now in place, the town plans to select a consultant. Officials say there will be multiple opportunities for public input and engagement as the plan takes shape over the next year.

“This is really about starting a community dialogue and charting a path forward,” Casey said. “It’s an exciting opportunity to reimagine how we get around in Marblehead and create a transportation system that works better for everyone.”

The funding for the bicycle and pedestrian plan is coming from Marblehead’s allocation of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The town has received a total of $6.1 million in ARPA funds, of which about $500,000 remains available for additional projects after the approval of the bike plan funding.

asthma, allergies, skin and nail infections, nosebleeds and headaches.”

McGuinness said air purifiers and dehumidifiers have been placed in areas where there are identified leaks. “It is clear that a larger-scale examination of water intrusion needs to take place at MHS given the roof replacement is not imminently scheduled,” she said.

“From the meeting, we anticipate providing the committee and the school community with a more specific plan of action before April break.”

McGuinness continued, “We do still have several areas of our roof that are leaking, especially as a result of the significant rain we’ve experienced this winter, and our facilities department is continuing to monitor this closely and mitigate, as warranted. We are also continuing our contract with an environmental consultant and implementing their recommendations. Next steps include continuing to monitor both situations, updating a facilities plan to include work over April break and the summer… and in the meantime, promptly resolving any water-intrusion issues as they arise.”

Why the delay?

After the roof project was approved at Town Meeting two years ago, the School Committee hoped the Massachusetts School Building Authority might help with more funding. The MSBA determined the

roof was not old enough (25 years) to qualify. “I do know after we received notice from the MSBA we were told the schools and town would be bidding the projects collectively,” said School Committee Chair Sarah Fox. “At some point late summer or early fall, we were notified the town had decided to separate the town and school projects, and we needed to proceed separately. At that point (former superintendent for finance and operations) Michele Cresta started to develop the RFP (request for proposal) that was specific only to the HS roof.”

Budget talk

The School Committee was expected to finalize a new fiscal year 2025 budget on Monday that would add back $1.2-$1.5 million in projected cuts,

saving positions and programs.

Interim Finance Director

Mary Delay was hoping to find the additional cash by “scrubbing” the district’s own reserve and revolving funds, as well as tapping a surplus predicted for the end of the year.

School Committee Chair Sarah Fox emphasized that $1.2 million would come from the district’s own coffers. Fox wrote in an email on April 2, “The

School Committee will be voting again next week and are expecting to reduce the (budget) number approved by a value of $1.2 million, which will be covered with a combination of revolving funds, grants and any FY ‘24 surplus to prepay budgeted items in accordance with MGL (Massachusetts General Law).”

The district is asking the town for $250,000 in

hopes of bringing back more staff and programs.

“If we can cover in house $1.2 million and we can ask the town to find an additional $250,000, I don’t think that’s a huge ask,” said Chair Sarah Fox.

Some of the items added back to the district’s preliminary reducedservices budget include: Lead teachers at the Glover, Brown and Village schools Veterans School librarian » Veterans School assistant principal » Behavior interventionist at Glover Reading teacher at Veterans » Paraprofessionals, building substitutes at various schools Voters at Town Meeting will have final say on the budget in May.

Opinion

BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM EDiTOri A l

Meeting our mandate

Two of our readers wrote letters (see Page 5) to offer pointed criticism of last week’s story on an online petition started by one of those letter writers, attorney John DiPiano. DiPiano’s petition, which urges the town to defy the state’s MBTA Communities Act mandate, bears 230 signatures as of this writing.

As difficult as those letters were to read — and publish — DiPiano and fellow resident Jonathan Klopman had every right to write them. But we hope that future discourse remains focused on the issues and is devoid of personal attacks. If we are going to continue to demand accountability of others — and we will — we have to be willing to accept it ourselves. Simply, the story DiPiano and Klopman are criticizing did not meet our standards and should not have been published until it was more fully reported.

As Town Meeting nears, this newspaper has few responsibilities more pressing than ensuring that Town Meeting voters have the best possible information on which to render its verdict on the town’s plan to meet the state mandate under the MBTA Communities Act. As both letter writers note, zoning revisions that would open the door to denser developments are roiling cities and towns across the state. By the time they head to Town Meeting, voters in Marblehead need clarity on the implications of a yes vote and of a no vote.

In a series of stories beginning last fall, we began to lay out those implications for our readers. We believe we have provided a wealth of information about where our town officials who have studied this issue are coming from. But as the letter writers note, organized opposition to the MBTA Communities Act has coalesced around the state, and our readers deserve a more fulsome examination of where those opponents are coming from, too.

To wit, DiPiano notes that he is on a quest to determine how much the town has received historically through the state grant programs that it would be putting at risk by failing to comply with Communities Act mandate. The story that data point tells may not be “case closed” for the forthcoming Town Meeting vote, but it is relevant and should be part of the discussion — even if it is inconvenient for town officials urging a yes vote on the zoning plan. DiPiano also raises the specter of ongoing litigation related to the MBTA Communities Act, specifically the Essex County Superior Court case Kolackovsky, et al. v. Town of Rockport, et al. Without getting too far into the weeds on the Kolackovsky case, what readers should know is that the Attorney General’s Office is seeking dismissal of the plaintiffs’ complaint, arguing that they lack standing — the legal right to file the suit — and have also failed to state a claim on which relief may be granted. We won’t hazard a prediction on that motion to dismiss, but at a minimum it is unclear when a ruling on that motion to dismiss might come. According to the docket, no hearing on the motion has been scheduled, and at this point the parties are not scheduled to return to court until May 14 — after Marblehead’s Town Meeting.

In the meantime, the state’s highest court, the Supreme Judicial Court, has accepted review of a case involving the town leading the resistance to the MBTA Communities Act, Milton. The attorney for the plaintiffs in the Kolackovsky case has filed a motion to intervene in the Milton case, suggesting that the definitive legal guidance may come in the context of that case and again almost certainly after the final gavel has fallen at Marblehead’s Town Meeting.

The point is that Marblehead might be well advised to proceed as if the MBTA Communities Act is a fact of life and then adjust, if and when the legal landscape shifts.

To his credit, DiPiano acknowledges that rejecting the MBTA Communities Act would almost certainly come with some financial cost to the town. Milton immediately had a $140,800 seawall and access improvement grant yanked away from it and is also incurring the cost of defending the suit the Attorney General’s Office brought against it.

Does the town have the stomach for such a tradeoff? DiPiano and other thoughtful opponents of the MBTA Communities Act should at least have the opportunity to make their case, though as they presumably realize, their claims will be subject to scrutiny as well.

A full airing enhances the chances that the verdict of Town Meeting will be respected, whichever way it goes.

We remain committed to ensuring that full airing happens, last week’s misstep notwithstanding.

A great and good man

This is the story of an 8-year-old boy and a 62-yearold man. One very successful and well-known. One, well, 8.

Picture the scene: A crisp, sunny day on the South Lawn of the White House. Rows of chairs set up theater style for a show like no other. The 2007 World Champion Red Sox team arrayed on a riser behind a podium with the presidential seal. Big Papi commanding attention like he’s at bat. The president at the microphone. A little boy, just over 4 feet tall, in a Red Sox hat and jacket, a baseball in one hand, a Sharpie in the other, creeping up the center aisle, getting closer and closer to the riser, like a hunter cornering its quarry.

Then, without warning, the show ends, and the players file off the stage and head up the white marble stairs while a phalanx of ushers step forward to block the crowd from coming any closer — the crowd and the boy, Jack.

I approach my little autograph hunter and see that he has tears of disappointment in his eyes.

“Honey, there’s the president of the Red Sox, Mr. Lucchino,” I say, pointing to a group of participants who hadn’t yet gone inside. “Let’s get his autograph; that will be cool.”

Jack has a look that clearly shows he knows the difference between getting his ball signed by Lucchino and Jacoby Ellsbury, but he gamely approaches and hands him his ball. Lucchino signs it and moves to hand it back to Jack, noticing the tears as he does.

“What’s wrong?” he asks me.

“Oh, he’s just disappointed he didn’t get any autographs,” I say, brushing aside his concern. “Well, Jack, why don’t you give me your ball, and I’ll get it signed and send it back to you?”

A friend standing nearby has the presence of mind to hand Lucchino her business card. He doesn’t know me, and I don’t have a card on hand to tell him where to mail the ball.

Lucchino walks away and then stops, turning back to us.

“Hey Jack, why don’t you just come with me?”

I push Jack forward to go with this stranger, and then it’s me whose eyes tear up as I watch my son and Lucchino walking side by side up the marble staircase, Lucchino bent over a bit to hear what Jack is saying.

Several minutes later — 10, 15; I don’t remember, it could have been a year — Jack long disappeared into the most powerful home on earth, a White House aide approaches me and asks, “Is it true your son is in the White House alone?”

I answer, “He’s not alone; he’s with Mr. Lucchino.”

She tells me to follow her, and when I get inside I can’t believe my eyes. There is Jack standing next to Lucchino. I can see his ball is full of signatures.

I hear Lucchino say, “Who do you want to meet next?” and Jack answers “Jacoby Ellsbury,” and the two head toward the center fielder. By this time, Jack has pulled a second ball he had brought with him out of his pocket — “for my best friend,” he tells Lucchino, who chuckles and continues bringing him around the room.

Eventually, they spot me and come over. Jack’s smile

ENDiNG THE STiGMA

could have lit up the whole Beltway. I hug Lucchino and whisper, “You’re a prince.”

Little did I know what a prince of a man he truly was.

The write-ups about his life and accomplishments since Lucchino passed on April 2 focus on his role in bringing three World Series wins to Boston; his insistence on preserving not rebuilding Fenway Park; his earlier roles in bringing fans the beautiful Camden Yards, and with the Padres.

Appreciation stories have noted that he raised millions for cancer research as a three-time survivor himself and highlight his service on the Watergate Commission staff and as a young lawyer working for the famed Williams & Connolly law firm in Washington D.C. Imagine having Edward Bennett Williams, revered trial lawyer and partowner of the now-Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Orioles as a mentor, as Lucchino did. Then, imagine having Larry Lucchino as your mentor.

Profiles describe a hard-charging leader. Yet, underneath that undeniable drive was this — an incomparable generosity and kindness, illustrated in this small way — a relationship with an 8-year-old boy that lasted almost 17 years.

After that unforgettable day at the White House, Jack and Lucchino would come together again, this time months later when Lucchino was awarded an honorary degree at a local law school. Jack, as a surprise, came out from behind the curtain in full academic regalia and bestowed it. Lucchino looked bowled over.

The two of them then sat for hours next to each other on the stage and chatted as hundreds of degrees were conferred and became unlikely friends.

Over the years, Jack would be invited to stop by Lucchino’s office at Fenway when he was attending a game. And he would host our whole family many, many times in his box at Fenway, giving tours of the dugout and clubhouse. We weren’t in any way part of Lucchino’s inner circle, yet he made Jack and our daughter Maddy feel like they were welcome at the center of his universe.

Years later, Jack would tell Lucchino he wanted to go to law school, and Lucchino pointed to his own experience to note that didn’t mean he had to practice as a lawyer.

When Lucchino turned his attention to Triple-A, he talked to Jack about an internship at the Pawtucket Red Sox with this impish invitation: “I can understand if you’d rather be in the big leagues, but we’d love to have you in minor league baseball.”

Jack helped manage the concessions and would attend meetings with Red Sox executive Dr. Charles Steinberg.

Most recently, we joined him at Polar Park and listened as he talked about its development with as much joy and pride as he did the adding of the Monster Seats on Lansdowne Street.

Larry Lucchino will be remembered for all of his enormous contributions. He was a great man. To my family and one young man who once clutched a baseball and a Sharpie with the tenacity of Teddy Ballgame, Lucchino will also be remembered as a deeply good one, too.

Virginia Buckingham is the president of the Marblehead Current’s board of directors.

How doing nothing changes everything

BY WENDY TAMIS ROBBINS

I had a whole day to myself on a recent Monday. It flew by. When my husband called me late that evening he asked, “What did you do today?” “Nothing,” I replied, wondering where the day had gone and how I could have gotten through an entire day without being more productive.

Have you ever felt this way?

Like if you don’t have some big accomplishment at work to point to or a to-do list a mile long with check marks on at least 90% of them, you haven’t done much at all?

Or maybe all you’ve done is work and everything else has faded into the background by the time the

dust of the day settles.

After my call, I started thinking, “That can’t be right. I feel good.

I know I did a lot today.” Then I went about replaying the hours and observing my behaviors with a refined, Sherlock Holmesian lens. The results …

I slept an extra hour.

I flossed.

I moisturized. I looked in the mirror without makeup a few times and smiled at myself.

I said ‘I love you’ to my husband. I listened to someone who was hurting. I stopped and watched waves crash.

I burned sage and sat in silence.

I lifted weights.

I walked along the beach. I watch a rabbit eat grass.

I appreciated my abundance. I ate healthfully.

I hydrated. I worked some, not too much. I was creative. I sat in the sun.

I read a novel (not the entire thing, but anything non-fiction is monumental).

These behaviors — though unremarkable — cannot be underestimated.

Changing the game

Taking just a few minutes to reflect on this list completely changed my thoughts, my beliefs and my reality. When I replied, “Nothing,” I felt a lot of things, none of which were positive.

After this reflection, I felt proud of myself. I felt loved and cared for.

lETTErS TO THE EDiTOr Lawsuit could impact possible override, insurance premiums

To the editor:

It’s time to buckle up boys and girls. I had mentioned on a few occasions that we had a few lawsuits coming down the road and here we go again. Ann Haskell, the former student service chair that was recently fired, has attained Attorney Neil Rossman. Ann Haskell, you chose very well. Neil is one heck of a lawyer.

To the School Committee, you lost your chance for an override. Yes, yes, I know it was the superintendent’s job to do the firing, but, as we have heard from our SC in the past, “We have no purview in some matters regarding school business.” I would like to hear under oath whether you had any discussions with the superintendent on the matter of Ms. Haskell’s firing. If so, then Theresa McGuinness didn’t see the bus coming. June will not come soon enough for her.

The School Committee may not be worrying because the insurance company will pay. Well, dear SC, we the taxpayers pay the premium and with so many lawsuits being racked up the insurance company could cancel or the premiums will soar through the roof.

Not too long ago our former legal team separated from us. How long will it be before this law firm will too?

With a jury trial being requested, this is one show I don’t want to miss.

School Committee member Alison Taylor, please remind us again how many people voted for you to be in the position to make the decisions you are making. But you always fail to ask the question how many of those voters regret that decision.

Note to the union and teachers: Present your own budget. I am pretty sure that the Marblehead Reporter, Marblehead Current, Marblehead Weekly, Daily Evening Item and perhaps the Boston Globe would be more than happy to publish it so the stakeholders of Marblehead can see what YOU need. This SC seems not able to explain to the public what a fully funded budget is.

Mary Mccarriston Pinecliff Drive

Article on petition opposing zoning plan shows bias

To the editor:

I write with respect to the piece dated March 28, 2024, written by Will Dowd entitled

“Petition opposing MBTA zoning proposal surfaces.”

I use the term “piece” because I am not sure what other term would provide an accurate description of what Mr. Dowd wrote. I cannot call the piece a story or a news article, because Mr. Dowd never bothered to reach out to me to discuss the petition to oppose town compliance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A and in particular Section 3A of that statute. When a “reporter” — I use the term loosely — writes something like what Mr. Dowd wrote, it isn’t a news article, it’s opinion and/or advocacy. I know because I am a litigator and we place facts in the light most favorable to our client on a daily basis. That’s what Mr. Dowd does in his piece — his client being the Planning Board. There is no question that Mr. Dowd is clearly supportive of the Planning Board and G.L. c. 40A — and it shows. Hence the characterization of the thing he wrote as a “piece.”

In his piece, Mr. Dowd merely posted the petition itself (for which I am grateful because it has gained many signatures since his piece appeared — we’re up to 114 as I write this) and spoke with the chairperson of the town Planning Board, Robert Schaeffner, who, in turn, simply could not understand why anyone would oppose the “sensible” and “benign” plan he and the board set in motion.

The piece goes on to outline the financial loss of another town who rejected compliance of a whopping $148,000, more or less, in grants — in terms of government spending, a proverbial drop in the bucket. Dowd also makes sure to try to frighten everyone about getting sued by the Commonwealth for having the intestinal fortitude to tell it to go pound sand.

Now, our Planning Board to date and to my knowledge, has either no idea, or simply isn’t telling anyone, how much, if anything, Marblehead might lose in grant funds should the measure fail at Town Meeting (which is my fervent hope and desire). That is an important data point for voters to have in order to weigh their decision and should be readily available. If someone can find that information somewhere please let me know because it appears to be a closely guarded official secret.

Had I been asked I might have told Dowd about that matter. But he never bothered to seek my input. He might have been too excited after sighting the surfaced petition and was in a rush to get to publication.

If asked, I might have also told Dowd, as is mentioned in the petition that “surfaced” (images

worthy of Herman Melville — the petition as Moby Dick and the Planning Board’s whalenemesis spring to mind) about the Superior Court Case of John Kolackovsky, et al v. Town of Rockport, et al Essex Superior Court Docket No.: 2277 CV 00947 -C. Yet another missed opportunity.

Mr. Schaeffner and the board might want to read this complaint and at least some of the pleadings involved in that ligation. (I have.) You see, that pending lawsuit challenges G.L. c. 40A as an unconstitutional violation of Massachusetts Home Rule principal and law. To boil it down to its elemental parts, lest anyone fail to understand why someone might be opposed to the Commonwealth dictating high-density family dwelling construction to cities and towns, what the litigants are saying is that these issues are for cities and towns to decide for themselves. Pretty foundational stuff really.

The lawsuit also describes the legislation as anything but “sensible” or “benign.” To the contrary, the complaint describes this law as “troublesome,” “unconstitutional,” “coercive,” “invasive” and basically just bad law. And, if Mr. Kolackovsky is right, the Planning Board’s recommended voluntary compliance therewith is anything but sensibly benign. Sometimes, you just have to decide to push back. This is one of those times, $148,000 in grant money (although we actually have no idea how much because nobody will tell us this closely guarded secret) be damned.

In his exclusive with Mr. Dowd, Mr. Schaeffner poo-poos and tut-tuts the pedestrians among our townspeople for having “knee jerk” reactions and not liking to be “told what to do.” I, for one, am happy that he was not among the Founding Fathers when they were discussing what to do about compliance with the tea and paper taxes. If he were, we may still be flying the Union Jack. Seriously though, the tone of Schaeffner’s response is troubling. It reminds me of the recent time Select Board member Moses Grader told another townsperson who was guilty of asking a question about the recent property taxhike kerfuffle that resulted in yet another town employee being placed on extended paid leave, that he (Grader) would “speak slowly” so that the (by implication) somewhat thick constituent might understand better the non-answer the board was presenting to a reasonable question.

Publicly belittling constituents

is a thing in Marblehead. And, if you can’t do it in a public meeting, Mr. Dowd is more than happy to accommodate with an avenue of attack. It’s good to have friends in the media after all.

Our Planning Board chairperson may consider the possibility that reasonable minds may differ on issues like the one wherein the petition to oppose G.L. c. 40A “surfaced” (‘thar she blows) and that those who oppose voluntary compliance with that statute and all that it entails is something they actually thought about and reflected upon and that the little townsfolk aren’t just having a temper tantrum as Schaeffner states and Dowd gleefully prints. We run this collective enterprise called Marblehead by open Town Meeting and I think that there is a term that describes having a dialogue and debate and then a vote on the issues after all the information necessary has been made available. It’s called “democracy.”

John G. DiPiano Trager Road

On MBTA zoning, let readers decide

To the editor:

This letter is in response to Will Dowd’s March 28 piece titled, “Petition opposing MBTA zoning proposal surfaces.” This was published as a news article, not opinion. My expectation is simple: If an issue arises, our reporters have a responsibility to research the matter, interview the involved parties and present the whole to readers so they can make up their own minds. However, I guess I’m naïve these days to expect that our vaunted Fourth Estate will actually bridle their own ego in the name of a journalistic sense of duty. Mr. Dowd’s blatant partisanship is evident in the very title. Sniffing that the petition opposing the mandate “surfaces” is a dismissive suggestion that opposition to the mandate somehow is like a fart bubbling to the surface of the bath water. In the week since the petition has been posted on Facebook, there are now 211 signatures. This is a genuine concern — not simply the lunatic fringe.

There was no attempt to interview John DiPiano, the drafter of the petition. There was no attempt by Mr. Dowd to leave his keyboard and interview townspeople opposed to the mandate. For that matter, there was no background about the mandate itself, the “housing crisis” it claims to address, or the economic impact that it will have on the town.

The entire piece merely gave

Helping kids cope with frustration

BY LIZZIE ASSA

Dear Lizzie, My first grader melts down when things get too hard for him and I’m finding myself doing a lot of things for him, just to avoid fallout. I know that’s not the best approach, but I don’t know how else to support him. Can you help?

Hi reader, “Don’t cry, honey. I don’t want you to be disappointed. Here, I’ll get you a new one.”

Have you ever heard these words come out of your mouth?

Probably! You are a parent who loves your kids so much. Their hurt is your hurt. Of course, you want to make their life easier.

But I want to tell you something. You don’t need to protect your child from feeling disappointed. Instead, teach them how to cope with their feelings. When we fix things for them, our children miss out on learning important coping skills. Hard feelings can become even harder behaviors if we don’t learn to manage them appropriately. Rather than controlling situations to avoid meltdowns, walk through them with your child. It will serve you both. You might disagree, but keeping kids happy is not the goal. It’s not good for them

or for you. Children need to practice handling situations that are less than ideal so they can become resilient in the face of setbacks and failures later on. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying we should purposely make life hard for our children, life will do that all on its own.

But it is our job as parents to help our children see themselves as capable, confident, contributing members of their community

When you feel yourself jumping in to fix things during a hard moment for your child, take a pause and try one of these phrases instead: “That looks really tricky. It’s okay to pause and take some deep breaths before you

Robert Schaeffner (chairman of the Planning Board) the stage to voice his umbrage at the public’s lack of gratitude for his hard work of bending the knee to lick Maura Healey’s boot.

Neither the fact that Schaeffner acquiesced to the governor’s office nor his expectation that the townspeople should show the same unquestioning fealty is surprising. However, Mr. Dowd’s refusal to question the state’s motives nor his failure to note the opposition claims that the mandate is inherently unconstitutional is. At the risk of being presumptuous, it is Dowd’s job to think, to question, to dig.

There is widespread protest throughout the 177 towns and cities affected by the governor’s capricious and onerous demands. Both the underlying rationale as well as the longterm impact remain shrouded from the public. The citizens should not be derided for having the temerity to object.

Walter Williams wrote the “Journalist’s Creed” in 1914. In it, he states that “the public journal is a public trust; that all connected with it are… trustees for the public; that acceptance of a lesser service than the public service is betrayal of this trust.” Will Dowd is no journalist. He’s used his platform to support the agenda of the powerful against the best interests of his own townspeople.

Jonathan Klopman Peach Highlands

Planning Board member clarifies MBTA zoning overlay proposal

To the editor: As a member of the Planning Board, I must point out errors in the April 3 article “Petition opposing MBTA zoning plan surfaces” which includes misinformation about the overlay district. The maximum building height in Marblehead is 35 feet, not 45 feet, even for multi-family buildings. Furthermore, Marblehead’s site plan review process reviews a project’s compatibility with its surroundings and may require a reduction in building height where appropriate as a condition for approval. The minimum lot area per dwelling unit is also not correct. In the three proposed districts (Broughton Road, Pleasant Street and Tioga Way), the minimum lot area per dwelling unit would range from 2,200 to 2,500 square feet, not 1,500 to 2,500.

Edward Nilsson Naugus Avenue

continue.”

“I can see how hard you are working on that.”

“You wish I would do it for you. I won’t do it for you but I will talk you through it.”

“You are still learning how to do that, so it makes sense that it’s not coming out perfectly.”

“What do you think the next best step might be?”

You don’t have to get this right all of the time. We’ve all gotten our tango on to sidestep an epic meltdown now and then.

Good luck!

Lizzie Assa is founder of The Workspace for Children, a parenting strategist, play expert and mother of three who lives in Marblehead.

ASK liZZiE

BY WILL DOWD

The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to the news in brief. Send yours to wdowd@marbleheadnews.org.

23 seats up for grabs

The June 11 town election will see 23 seats across a dozen different boards, commissions and committees up for grabs. These include the following:

» Select Board: Five seats

» Board of Assessors: One seat (three-year term)

School Committee: One seat (three-year term)

» Board of Health: One seat (three-year term)

» Moderator: One seat (oneyear term)

Cemetery Commission: One seat (three-year term)

Housing Authority: One seat (five-year term)

» Trustees of Abbot Public

Library: Two seats (threeyear terms)

Planning Board: Two seats (three-year terms)

Recreation and Park Commission: Five seats (oneyear terms)

» Water and Sewer Commission: One seat (threeyear term)

Marblehead Municipal Light Commission: Two seats (three-year terms)

Here is a list of those who had pulled papers as of Friday, April 5: Town moderator: Incumbent Jack Attridge.

» Select Board: Dan Albert and incumbents Erin Noonan, Moses Grader, Alexa Singer and Bret Murray. Cemetery Commission: Incumbent Janet Merrill School Committee: John G. DiPiano and incumbent Alfred Williams. DiPiano subsequently announced on social media that he would

SOME

not be seeking a seat on the board after all, however.

» Library Board of Trustees: David F. Ross Jr. and John G. Williams, both incumbents. Light Commission: Incumbent Adam Robert Smith.

» Board of Health: Dr. Thomas A. Massaro.

» Planning Board: Incumbents Andrew Christensen and Barton Hyte.

Recreation and Parks Commission: Linda Rice Collins, Shelly Bedrossian, Rossana Ferrante and Karin Ernst, all incumbents.

Candidates must submit a written request and obtain 50 signatures from registered Marblehead voters by April 22 at 5 p.m. To learn more, visit: tinyurl.com/mr3pwm78

To register to vote or change party enrollment, complete a voter registration form in person, by mail or online at RegisterToVoteMA.com.

Candidates’

Night on May 21

The Marblehead League of Women Voters will hold its annual Candidates’ Night on Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. in the Marblehead High library. This forum allows voters to meet

and learn about the candidates running for office.

Hazard mitigation plan adopted for FEMA grants

The Select Board unanimously adopted the town’s Hazard Mitigation Plan, ensuring the town remains eligible for certain FEMA grants. The plan, developed by town staff and a consultant, addresses various threats such as coastal flooding, hurricanes, extreme temperatures and wildfires.

Tribe Talk to address teen antisemitism

The JCC in Marblehead will host “Tribe Talk,” an event addressing antisemitism among teens, on April 28, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. The event is open to students in grades eight through 12, as well as their parents and grandparents. Interested participants can RSVP at tinyurl. com/tribetalkns.

Friends of COA to host annual auction

The Friends of the Marblehead Council on Aging will hold its annual auction on April 25 at 5:30 p.m. at the Landing Restaurant. The event will feature a variety of items, services and events to bid on, with proceeds

supporting COA services and programs. Reservations are strongly encouraged by calling 781-639-1266.

Festival of the Arts calls for art

The Festival of the Arts is calling for art entries now through June 14 at 10 p.m. Eligible artists residing, working or belonging to an art association in Essex County can submit their original artwork for juried exhibits. Separate categories are available for youth and student art open to Marblehead residents or nonresidents attending school or classes in Marblehead. Awards will be distributed in each category on July 3 at 6 p.m. at Abbot Hall. Artists are invited to enter across multiple categories. Visit tinyurl.com/5e5p4bt8 to learn more.

Cultural Council seeks public’s input

April 28 proclaimed as Arbor Day

The Select Board proclaimed April 28 as Arbor Day in the town. The proclamation aims to promote community tree planting and care, with the goal of securing the Tree City USA designation once again.

Colonial Craft Fair

The Marblehead Cultural Council is seeking public input through a survey to help establish funding priorities for arts, culture, applied sciences and history projects in 2025. The survey results will guide the council in determining the most important initiatives for the town’s residents. Interested individuals can complete the survey via the QR code here.

Pride celebration set for June 1

The Marblehead Museum will hold its first Colonial Craft Fair on Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visitors can stroll through the gardens of the Jeremiah Lee Mansion and meet skilled artisans and historic reenactors as they demonstrate crafts from 300 years ago. Visitors can learn how shoes were made by a master shoemaker, try their hand at copperplate printing, watch a cook prepare Colonial dishes and more. Tickets for museum members are $10 per person or $25 per family, and tickets for the public are $15 per person or $40 per family. Children 3 and under are free. All tickets can be purchased at the door.

Town signs for Fourth of July Fireworks

The Select Board unanimously approved a $50,000 contract with Atlas PyroVision Entertainment Group Inc. to produce the town’s Independence Day fireworks display. The annual show is funded by donations.

ClearGov is live

Residents now have online access to more of the town’s financial information via the ClearGov Transparency Center at bit.ly/3Oi07pF. It’s part of the town’s new cloud-based financial software system.

The Select Board unanimously approved the use of Abbot Hall for a Pride event on June 1, with a rain date of June 2. The event, organized by the Marblehead Pride Committee, will take place at 3 p.m.

Village School students honored for writing skills

One student shares personal health story in letter to her favorite author

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Village School students received special recognition in the Letters About Literature competition run by the Massachusetts Center for the Book. Students in grades four through 12 were asked to write letters to authors, living or dead, whose work has made a significant difference in their lives.

Sixth grader Charlotte Quick was named a finalist for her letter to E.B. White. Quick is named after the main character in White’s classic, “Charlotte’s Web.” She shared her personal journey with celiac disease and how “Charlotte’s Web” gave her courage and inspiration. You can read Quick’s letter below.

Students Chase Taylor, Jordan London, Maeve Korgie and Noah Kreevoy were named semi-finalists.

Dear E. B. White, “Charlotte’s Web” was the main reason I was named Charlotte: after the kind-spirited spider who thought of others before herself. “Charlotte’s Web” was the first book I ever received. My copy is so old and yellowed that the pages make crinkling sounds each time I turn the pages. The words on the page jumped off the page and sent my mind whirling with compassion for the characters in the story, and I began to internalize the characteristics of what a friend should look like. This book will always be important to my family and me. It has taught me to put others’ needs before my own and to stick up for my friends and family.

I have celiac disease, which means that

I am gluten-free without having crosscontamination with other foods. I have a severe allergy to wheat, barley, rye, malt and oats. Diagnosed on my 11th birthday, it became quite a challenge for my family, especially my grocery shopping mom. My parents would call me “a trooper” and say I was “handling it so well,” but I was having one of the most challenging times of my young life. I’m not fond of revealing my food challenges, but at times it’s necessary.

On half days, my friends and I go downtown, and in fourth grade, my friends and I would go to Tony’s, a pizza place where most of the kids go for lunch. I loved that

place! I would eat cheese pizza and fried dough balls. However, by the end of grade five, pizza restaurants became a place of my past. You see, I was diagnosed with celiac towards the end of the school year. I stopped going out to lunch with my friends on our half days of school. I was afraid to hang out and then make an excuse to leave while all my school friends ventured off to Tony’s.

At the beginning of sixth grade, I looked at the calendar and realized that the first half day would be in a few days! I began to plot my next excuse. The next day, my friends were talking about going downtown. I desperately wished that I could go with them,

but I couldn’t risk the possibility of ending up in a hospital because of my pain-in-theneck food allergy. Sitting with friends in a restaurant was risky because the tables could have unseen cross-contamination elements. However, that night, my friends were texting on our group chat, wondering who would be going downtown. I couldn’t resist the idea of missing out, so I texted, “Count me in.” The next day, I rushed from my classroom, followed by a wave of kids zooming through the doors. On the way downtown, I took a social risk by trusting my group of friends with my food and restaurant dilemma. Thankfully, they were so supportive! They understood and decided they would all eat at the same place I had to eat! I was amazed and so grateful for their compassion.

Whenever I read your book, I think of this particular moment in my life and see myself as Wilbur and my friends as Charlotte. When facing challenges, it’s good to know that I have selfless friends like Charlotte.

I was particularly inspired when Charlotte said, “You have been a true friend. That in itself is a tremendous thing.” I have never liked arachnids — but I strive to have the sacrificial heart of Charlotte. I try to be selfless and a friend, similar to the support Charlotte gave to Wilbur at the fair, even though, as a reader, I knew she was dying.

I have read the stories of Charlotte, Wilbur and others so many times that I have lost count. Each time, I am touched by your words. I know your Wilbur and Charlotte will continue to inspire young and old.

Kindly, Charlotte Quick, Grade 6

The current contract gives teachers eight weeks of parental leave, with four of those weeks paid. Under its new proposal, the MEA is asking for 12 weeks of parental leave, all of them paid.

The MEA says now teachers need to use their accumulated sick days for every one day of maternity/paternity leave. “Many teachers that have taken maternity/paternity leave end up exhausting their accumulated sick days when they return from their parental leave,” the MEA wrote in an email. The union and School Committee are scheduled to meet next on May 1, according to MEA Co-President Jonathan Heller. The MEA is also demanding new safety protocols in schools and more social-emotional support for students.

While educator unions were among the strongest advocates for the state Paid Family and Medical Leave Act, approved in 2018, the law excluded municipal workers, including public school employees, according to the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Teachers From P. A1

In addition to Marblehead, teachers in Beverly, Gloucester, Revere, Ipswich, HamiltonWenham, Masconomet Regional, Danvers, Salem, Georgetown and Chelsea were set to demonstrate for paid parental leave this week.

Charlotte Quick is dressed a few years ago as Fern, a character from her favorite book, ‘Charlotte’s Web.’

COURTESY PHOTOS Village School sixth grader Charlotte Quick was named a finalist in a letterwriting competition

COURTESY PHOTO / JOE RECORD VIA FLICKR Marblehead Select Board approved a $50,000 contract, laying the foundation for the Fourth of July fireworks.

Access the survey with your cell phone through this QR code.

Reforms, new department on 2024 warrant

BY WILL DOWD

This article is part of series providing in-depth coverage of the key warrant articles leading up to the Marblehead Town Meeting in May.

A series of articles in the 2024 Marblehead warrant stands to bolster the town’s economic future and quality of life, proponents believe.

Articles 34-35 and 37-39 propose governance reforms spanning community development, financial oversight and public health.

The biggest change proposed would establish a new community development and planning department and hire a director to oversee it. The impetus behind the request: longtime Town Planner Becky Cutting’s retirement in late February.

“Becky was a department of one, and she wore multiple hats,” Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer told the Current. “Her retirement presents an opportunity to restructure.” Kezer called Article 34 “the Becky replacement plan.” The newly created Community Development and Planning Department would focus on a wide range of issues, including economic development, housing policy, transportation, historic preservation, sustainability efforts, open space conservation and neighborhood improvement. The department would also aim to support Marblehead’s business community and increase tourism.

Funding for the new positions would come from the regular municipal budget and salaries of positions that will be vacated by retirements. Kezer said the reorganization can be achieved without increasing expenses.

“The town engineer is expected to retire this year. That salary is going to pay for the director of community development and planning,” Kezer explained. “DPW is picking up the engineering

TOWN MEETiNG

responsibilities because they already have an engineer.” Kezer said he also plans to hire a grant writer, a newly established position that aims to enhance the town’s ability to secure federal, state and other funding.

“There are plenty of grants out there,” Kezer said. “Federal grants, state grants and others for municipalities. We just don’t have any one person focused on it; everybody’s kind of doing a little piece.”

The director of community development and planning would also have the authority to appoint additional employees as needed, subject to the approval of the Select Board.

While the funding source for these additional positions is not explicitly stated, Kezer implied that they would be created using savings from other personnel changes and retirements.

“This department, the way I describe it, is focused on qualityof-life issues for Marblehead, a significant part of which is the business community,” Kezer

said. “Marblehead has a very small share of commercial and industrial property relative to residential.”

During a meeting with Marblehead’s business community, he stated, “This is an investment that Marblehead has to make now to be in a position to sort of control its own destiny. Because right now, we’re on a path that’s not looking good.”

Select Board member Bret Murray is throwing his support behind Article 34.

“This is going to be new for Marblehead, but it’s not new for a lot of other communities,” he noted. “We’ve got to leverage what’s worked well for them.”

At the same time, Murray emphasized the importance of preserving Marblehead’s unique character and charm.

“It’s that balance — how can we keep our same charm while modernizing how we do business?” he said. “Marblehead’s got to keep its core, but we’ve also got to get current and follow best

practices.”

Articles 35 and 38 Kezer wants to move the assessor’s office under the purview of the chief financial officer (Article 35) and make the Board of Assessors an appointed rather than elected body (Article 38).

“Our current system of having an independently elected board of assessors is not in line with best practices,” Kezer told the Select Board. “Most other municipalities have their assessors report to the chief financial officer and have an appointed assessment board.”

Kezer said bringing the assessor’s office into the Finance Department would allow for better coordination and data sharing among departments. Currently, the assessors operate separately from other town finance functions.

“The assessors are responsible for over $80 million in property values, yet they work independently from us. That means separate systems and processes,” Kezer said. “We need a more cohesive financial team approach.”

If approved at Town Meeting, the proposal to change the Board of Assessors from elected to appointed would go to the ballot box and, if approved, take effect for fiscal year 2025.

The proposal comes amid ongoing concerns from residents about inconsistencies in property assessments. Appointing a board of assessors, which the Massachusetts Division of Local Services considers a best practice, is a practice in a third of Massachusetts’ 351 municipalities, according to Massachusetts Association of Assessing Officers.

Article 39

The Select Board has proposed amending the Capital Planning Committee membership from five residents with restrictions to a hybrid model with three resident appointees alongside professional staff. This balance

of external input and staff perspectives could “energize” capital planning, according to Kezer.

Current bylaws restrict resident members from serving on other town boards, committees or holding municipal positions to ensure independence. That would not change.

» The change is designed to: Align capital project priorities with long-term financial goals.

» Integrate resident voices with operational realities.

» Reduce spikes in property tax bills through strategic planning.

Maintain town buildings proactively to avoid service disruptions.

» Increase transparency in the capital planning process.

Article 37

Marblehead voters will also be asked whether to expand the Board of Health from three to five members. The initiative, sponsored by the Board of Health itself, seeks to cultivate a more diverse and robust governing body capable of addressing contemporary health challenges more effectively.

Following the effective date of this act, the first election under the new system would see three members elected, with the candidate receiving the highest number of votes serving a threeyear term, the second-highest vote-getter serving a two-year term, and the third-highest serving a one-year term.

In subsequent elections, members would be elected to three-year terms, with one or two positions up for each year, depending on the cycle. This staggered approach ensures that the board maintains a blend of experienced and new perspectives, proponents argue.

If approved at Town Meeting, the proposal would go through the home-rule petition process, requiring approval from the state legislature and the governor before taking effect.

Essex Tech provides valued options for local students

BY LEIGH BLANDER

This article is part of a series looking at key warrant articles leading up to the Town Meeting on May 6. At Town Meeting on May 6, voters will decide an appropriation to Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School for fiscal year 2025 of $468,057, down about $700 from last year. Twentyfive Marblehead students attend Essex Tech currently. Ten will graduate this spring. Another 30 have applied for next year and will learn before April vacation if they’ve been admitted.

“We are the vocational school for the town of Marblehead,” said Mark Strout, Essex Tech’s representative for Marblehead, who is also the chair of the School Committee there. “Every family can either send their kid to Marblehead High School, or they can send their kid to their vocational/technical/agricultural school.”

Strout added, “Our mission is to make sure students are prepared for an ever-changing, more collaborative workforce.”

Essex Tech is located in Danvers in 2014 and serves 17 member communities, including Marblehead. The school offers 24 career technical and agricultural programs, including animal sciences, carpentry, engineering and automation technology, automotive collision repair and refinishing, cosmetology, culinary arts and more.

Students spend more than half of their school time learning in their program to prepare for the workforce or postsecondary education related to their program. Students are also enrolled in academic and elective courses. “It absolutely prepares for them an occupation and/or if they want to go to college,” Strout said.

Students also participate in co-op programs. In Marblehead, Essex Tech students worked

recently

“The

Kindle of Marblehead, whose son, Tristan, is a junior at the school.

For example, students in the veterinary program work in a vet clinic on the school property, she said. Teens in the culinary arts program work in a professional kitchen on campus.

“I like it because I get to focus more on what I’ll be using when I’m out of school,” said Tristan Kindle, who is in the engineering program. “I’m hoping to go into the Coast Guard Academy when I graduate.”

Tristan explained that at Essex Tech, students spend five days on traditional topics (math, science, English, history) and the next five days learning a trade or specialty.

Kindle’s other child, also a junior, attends Marblehead High School.

About the Tech, Kindle says, “It’s not better; it’s just different. But it’s better for some kids. What the Tech could offer (Tristan), it wasn’t better than the high school, but it was better for him.”

Kindle pointed out that anyone in the community (not just students and their families) can take advantage of Essex Tech’s services, including veterinary care, pet grooming, automotive and collision repair, a bistro and more.

Learn more at essexnorthshore.org.

at Marblehead Animal Hospital and Smile Design and Family Dentistry.

best part of Essex Tech is the amount of hands-on work that they do,” said Xhazzie

COURTESY PHOTOS Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School offers veterinary programs for students and vet services for the community.

Twenty-five Marblehead students currently attend Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School in Danvers.

A graceful giant

BY RICK CUZNER

I have seen this great blue heron at Joe Brown’s Pond throughout the winter. This particular morning, I found it perched on a limb just as the sun was coming up. Although somewhat skittish, I was able to get a few photos.

According to the Mass Audubon, great blue herons have experienced a remarkable resurgence in the state over the past few decades. Once a rare sight due to hunting and pollution, these majestic wading

birds can now be found in ponds, lakes and rivers, often in surprisingly urban areas. The increase in the beaver population in Massachusetts has created ideal nesting habitat for great blue herons, as the beavers’ activities result in swamps with dead trees. The herons’ comeback can also be attributed to stricter protection of both the birds themselves and the wetlands they depend on. Great blue herons are impressive birds, standing at approximately four feet tall with long legs and graceful necks.

They have straight, dagger-like bills, which they use to spear fish, and adults have thin black plumes swept back behind their heads. In Massachusetts, migrating great blue herons arrive as early as late March and depart between mid-July and late September, with some birds wintering in coastal areas or where freshwater remains unfrozen. These herons nest communally in “rookeries” or “heronries,” which can hold up to 50 pairs. They typically use the same rookery every year until the trees eventually

A great blue heron stands vigil on a pine limb at Joe Brown’s Pond. Once scarce in the area, these birds have become a common sight, thanks to conservation efforts and environmental recovery.

collapse. While fish make up the majority of their diet, great blue herons also consume crabs, insects, frogs, snakes, salamanders, grasshoppers, dragonflies, aquatic insects and,

occasionally, small rodents. The Marblehead Current is proud to partner with photographer Rick Cuzner. For the past 16 years, he has taken thousands of nature photographs.

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Marblehead tenor Matt Arnold has made it to the semifinals of the Lauritz Melchior International Singing Competition in Denmark and was scheduled to perform again today, April 10, to see if he will move on to the finals next week.

“The main purpose of the competition is to identify young Wagnernian singers to get them on the map and working in opera houses in Europe,” Arnold explained to the Current from Aalborg, Denmark. The music director at Star of the Sea Church, Arnold also leads his own big band, The New England Yankees. He is one of nine semifinalists and the last remaining American in the competition.

“I had to send in my resume and several videos of me singing,” he explained. “They had a jury that viewed all the applicants. They picked 16 out of 167 applicants to come and perform in person.”

The competition, held every four years, features only music written by German composer Rcihard Wagner.

“I love his music,” Arnold said. “I have studied a lot of it, and I’ve had a couple opportunities to sing it with an orchestra.” Arnold sang a fiveminute aria from “Die Walküre” on April 5. In the semifinals, he planned to perform “In Fernem Land,” from the opera “Lohengrin.”

“My goal was to get this far,” Arnold said. “I wanted to at least get to the semifinals to sing with the orchestra and for an audience. Now, I hope that I continue on for the finals.”

The competition is held at the famous Musikkens Hus in Aalborg. The semifinals will be broadcast live on Danish radio. Arnold will be wearing a white coat and tails.

Asked if he is nervous, Arnold

COURTESY PHOTO / RICK CUZNER

Sports

With spring youth sports starting, hundreds of parents make it all

BY LEIGH BLANDER

As spring youth sports get underway, hundreds of parents are dusting off their clipboards and hitting fields across Marblehead to support the town’s youngest athletes. From soccer to baseball to lacrosse, kids are playing and learning skills and teamwork.

And none of it would happen without the army of volunteer parents who dedicate hours upon hours to plan, organize and coach.

“It’s such a wonderful thing to be part of a town where so many parents volunteer so much time to help not only their kids but so many of their neighbors’ kids as well,” Rob Day, president of Marblehead Youth Soccer, told the Current.

Alexandra Merle started coaching MYS five years ago when her son was playing. She’s now the club’s registrar.

“I met all the characters and it became apparent that they’re always in need of help,” Merle said. During the season, she spends about seven hours a week volunteering. MYS has about 200 volunteer parent coaches, she said.

“For me, it’s about wanting to give back and feel like I’m part of the community. It’s also a good chance to spend more time with my own child.”

Merle works from home now, but when she was driving into Boston every day, “I would come home from a terrible commute and we’d run out onto Village field and it was such a nice way of having work-life balance.”

happen

Denis Whelan is president of Boys Youth Lacrosse, for kids in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. A former lacrosse player at UMass, he started coaching his own kids about four years ago. There are now more than 200 kids in the program, the highest registration in the six years they’ve been running the program.

“I think it’s because we have a bunch of really great coaches,” Whelan said. “We have a lot of guys who formerly played in college and they’re also really great dads and parents.”

Whelan agrees that being a volunteer coach is a good way to give back.

“It’s all about making a great community. Everybody takes on one thing seriously and they care about that thing. Rob Day is taking care of soccer. We’re taking care of lacrosse. Someone else is taking care of the fireworks in town. That’s what makes a really great community.

Two dozen ’Headers set to compete in marathon

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The 128th edition of the world-renowned Boston Marathon has arrived. Thousands of runners are taking their last few practice runs around their neighborhoods or favorite running venues to make sure they are completely prepped for Monday’s race that begins in Hopkinton and ends on Boylston Street in Boston. The following is the list of Marblehead runners already signed up to participate in this historic race complete with their bib numbers and ages: Tyler Callahan (BIB 24252, age 19), Daniel Campbell (29500, 36), Meeghan Cronin (24624, 22), Max Delvento (30285, 27), Daniel Donato (1639, 43), Matthew Duca (27820, 38),

“It’s not about us winning or creating elite prospects,” he added. “It’s about making Marblehaed a good place to live.”

Kristen Jelllison leads the girls lacrosse program with 200 players this year.

“It’s great to show kids how to have fun and be active, and the importance of being part

of a team,” Jellison said. “We teach healthy competition. There is a good, fun way to be competitive.”

Pat O’Leary is president of Marblehead Youth Baseball, which has about 350 players and 80 parent coaches.

“My dad coached me in little league and those are some of my favorite memories.” O’Leary said. “I really love it. I have a good time with my kids. I like getting to know their friends and all the kids in town, watching them all progress. It’s fulfilling.”

Day acknowledges that volunteering in youth sports can bring occasional headaches, but he’s been doing it for years now.

“There will always be the problem adults, and to be honest we have to spend way too much time dealing with them. But the kids are always great and are always both the goal and the reward. It makes you glad to be living in Marblehead.”

If you’d like to shout out one of your kids’ favorite youth sports coaches, reach out to us here at the Current and we’ll feature them in upcoming articles. Email us at info@ marbleheadnews.org.

Mother Nature slows lacrosse teams

BY JOE MCCONNELL

Early season spring high school games are always subjected to the whims of Mother Nature, and this year she seems to be more fickle than usual. Lacrosse usually plays in all sorts of weather, but even this sport has postponements when just plain rain is mixed in with a snowy forecast creating nasty sleet in the atmosphere.

While the Marblehead High boys lacrosse team saw their non-league game against Newburyport canceled, because of the elements, the girls squad had the good fortune to get in its opener versus non-league Manchester Essex before the weather went downhill. However, they ended up losing to the Hornets, 14-6. The Marblehead girls scored just once in the first half, before exploding for five more goals in the second half.

Maddie Forbes (1 assist, 3 ground balls, draws 1), Ramona Gillett (2 goals, 3 draws), Rachel Delisle (1 ground ball) Kathryn Commoss (2 goals, 1 assist, 3 draws), Gretchen Smith (1 goal), Caroline Scroope (1 goal, 1 ground ball), Sofia Grubor (1 assist) and Courtney Hoguet (1 caused turnover) all played roles in generating offense in this game.

Goalie Molly Bullard was credited with 12 saves.

The Marblehead boys also played one game, before the weather pattern changed, but they didn’t fare too well either, when the Newburyport Clippers pinned an 11-3 non-league loss on them.

Weather permitting, both boys and girls teams were scheduled to take on Beverly on April 8 after press deadline. The boys then hit the road for Swampscott Thursday, April 11, 7 p.m., before going to Danvers to face the Falcons Saturday morning at 10 a.m.

The Marblehead girls will next play against host Swampscott Friday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., and then Peabody at home on Patriots Day also at 4:30 p.m.

GAME

Pat O’Leary, president of Marblehead Youth Baseball, with his son, Kevin, after the Bay State Championship last summer.

COURTESY PHOTOS Marblehead Youth Lacrosse players in last year’s Jamboree Tournament in Devens.

MYS team Thunder celebrate a team win in the final game of their season, spring 2023.

Joseph Hanlon (28345, 31), Patrick Hogan (5277, 45), Madeleine MacMaster (30365, 23), Madelyn McEachern (26886, 25), Marni Melanson (25158, 46), Sydney Murphy (24585, 28), Carrie Page Furnari (9351, 42), Ross Patterson (7345, 44), Margaret Porter (24395, 37), John Prindiville (25939, 45), Emily Promise (26196, 26), Rex Radloff (608, 36), Sally Reiley (16276, 64), Jennifer Sheridan (25570, 52), Thomas Smith (7788, 34), Tim Sullivan (25954, 55), Kyle Taylor (1279, 32) and Bethany Zanrucha (15333, 39).

COURTESY PHOTO

John Prindiville is running the Boston Marathon in honor of neighbor Caroline Noonan, who is in cancer treatment at Massachusetts General Hospital.

MHS track enters season with no fear

BY JOE MCCONNELL

The Marblehead High boys and girls spring track teams are just coming off their most successful indoor seasons in recent memory after winning the aggregate NEC championship, where both squads combined to beat their conference foes. The Marblehead girls did win the NEC regular season crown outright.

The girls also won the State Division 3 Relay Championships and the NEC Championship Meet, and were runners-up at the Division 3 State Championship Meet.

According to coach Nolan Raimo, the spring season is a significant change of pace compared to indoor track. For instance, the spring season is two weeks shorter. They were scheduled to open up on April 5 against host Gloucester, but multiple days of inclement weather wiped out that meet. The last regular season meet is scheduled for May 13 against Salem. The championship season extends late into May and early June.

The spring season has also expanded from nine events to 16. which means depth and versatility are incredibly important to succeed in the regular and championship seasons.

Sophomore Marri O’Connell, the Magicians cross-country sensation, returns to track after playing basketball in the winter.

“Marrietta was a state champion in cross-country, and was also a star last year as a freshman in spring track, qualifying for nationals in the two-mile,” said Raimo. “The sprinting quartet of junior captain Ava Machado; sophomore Sadie Halpern, senior captain LeDaisha Williams and junior Charlie Roszell are coming off a state championship in the 4x400, while ending up third in the 4x200, which positions them well for both the 4x100 and 4x400 relay this spring.

“Juniors Paige Tredwell and Elise Burchfield look to continue successful campaigns in the hurdles and jumps within the conference. Senior captain Cat Piper looks to continue her momentum from a great crosscountry campaign to an equally impressive indoor track season in both the mile and two-mile.

MHS VA rSiTY SCHEDU lE

Wednesday, April 10

She’s accompanied by two great throwers in Lillian Reddy, who is making her spring shotput debut as a sophomore after two successful indoor seasons, and junior Hannah O’Brien, who is a discus specialist.”

Hersey, Ca rlson will once again lead the way

On the boys side, senior captain Alex Hersey will be featured in the long jump, triple jump and 110-meter hurdles. He’s one of the best among his conference and state foes in the later event.

Thomas Carlson was crowned one of the fastest NEC runners in the sprints during the indoor season, and is excited about running the 100 and 200 this spring, according to Raimo. The foundation of this spring’s boys team lies in its distance

squad that will include the likes of senior captains Isaac Gross, Xavier Grazado and Will Cronin, juniors William Cerrutti and Nate Assa, senior Ryan Blestowe and sophomores Henrik Adams and Will Cruikshank. They all figure to score a ton of points this season.

There is also much potential in the longer sprints. Juniors Ethan Horgan, Jacob Bobowski and Joseph Proulx will be holding down those events.

Sophomore Slater Johnson and Hersey will get help from a talented group of underclassmen hurdlers to add considerable depth to these events. They will include the likes of sophomores Nate Jendrysik, Quinn Scheib, Isaac Brenneman and Colin Hart, and freshman Noah Jackson.

“We have a few new additions to the teams this spring,” said Raimo. “On the boys side, there’s freshman Ryan Corrigan and junior Owen Newburg. They should score points in a variety of events. They both have already impressed the coaching staff early on in practice. On the girls side, sophomores Sydney Ball and Greta Sachs, and freshmen Maggie Miller and Sydney Faris look to score points in the short sprints and jumps.”

The Peabody boys are once again the team to beat in the conference. “We look forward to facing them at the NEC Championship Meet in midMay,” said Raimo. “On the girls’ side, we remain motivated to bring home more hardware from the state championship meets, while the boys strive to compete against two very solid opponents in Beverly and aforementioned Peabody at the NEC Meet. Starting back in December, we tirelessly chased our potential, which resulted in a tremendous indoor season. We will continue to strive to be our best this spring,” added the veteran coach. “There’s a confidence floating around the team that I think is contagious. It’s not cocky, but more so a lack of fear. I hope it persists throughout the season. To have that belief in yourself and your teammates is extraordinary. It’s a fun environment to be around for a coach.”

The Magicians will begin the spring season against host Swampscott Friday, April 12, starting at 4:30 p.m.

4 p.m. boys tennis vs. Swampscott at Swampscott High

4 p.m. girls tennis vs. Swampscott at Marblehead High

4:30 p.m. softball vs. Gloucester at Marblehead Veterans Middle School

Thursday, April 11

4 p.m. baseball vs. Peabody at Seaside Park

4 p.m. girls tennis vs. Saugus at Belmonte School, Saugus

4:30 p.m. girls lacrosse vs. Swampscott at MHS Piper Field

7 p.m. boys lacrosse vs. Swampscott at Blocksidge Field, Swampscott

Friday, April 12

4 p.m. baseball vs. Masconomet at Masconomet Regional High

4 p.m. softball vs. Ipswich at Marblehead Veterans Middle School

4:30 p.m. girls and boys outdoor track vs. Swampscott at Swampscott High

Saturday, April 13

10 a.m. girls lacrosse vs. Danvers at MHS Piper Field

10 a.m. boys lacrosse `vs. Danvers at Danvers High

Monday, April 15

10 a.m. girls lacrosse vs. Peabody at Peabody Veterans Memorial High

11 a.m. boys lacrosse boys lacrosse vs. Peabody at MHS Piper Field

4:30 p.m. girls and boys outdoor track vs. Peabody at Village School

Tuesday, April 16

11 a.m. baseball vs. Newburyport at Seaside Park

Wednesday, April 17

10 a.m. boys lacrosse vs. Masconomet at Masconomet Regional High

Noon baseball vs. Beverly at Seaside Park

Thursday, April 18

11:30 a.m. softball vs. Boston Latin Academy at Puopolo/Langone Park, Boston

Friday, April 19

11:30 a.m. softball vs. Whittier at Marblehead Veterans Middle School

4:30 p.m. baseball vs. Salem at Seaside Park

Saturday, April 20

10 a.m. girls lacrosse vs. Masconomet Regional at MHS Piper Field

Senior captain Kate Twomey will be a force in the long sprints and mid-distance events, keying primarily on the 800.

The throwing squad is led by senior captain Rachael Albert, who was a Top 25 thrower in the state during the indoor season.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Marblehead boys spring track captain Alex Hersey will be the team’s primary hurdler this year.

Marblehead girls spring track captain Grace Mortenson and junior Juliet Burchfield competed in the 600 at the NEC Championship Meet this past winter.

Marblehead girls spring track juniors Elise Burchfield and Paige Tredwell competed in the 55-meter hurdles during an indoor track meet this past winter.

MHS Drama Club preparing for ‘The Prom’

BY BENJI BOYD

The Marblehead High School Drama Club is in full swing into rehearsals for the upcoming spring musical, “The Prom.” The show debuts Friday, April 26, and plays through that weekend. The cast, crew and directors are working hard to put all the pieces together.

“The Prom” tells the story of four washed-up Broadway stars who are looking to repaint their image as celebrity activists. When they catch wind that the bigoted PTA of a small town in Indiana has canceled the high school prom, all because one girl wanted to take her girlfriend, they hop on the cause. In their misguided attempts, many mistakes are made and many lessons learned, but the prom comes together in the end.

“The message is what really comes through here,” director and MHS teacher Ashley Skeffington told the Current when asked what made this musical special.

“We have a really diverse group of students; many students are members of the LGBTQ+ community, many of them have friends and families who are members of the LGBTQ+ community; so there’s this real sense of urgency and importance that comes with telling a story about people that are still in many ways marginalized.”

When it initially debuted on Broadway, “The Prom” won a number of awards. It is full of elaborate dance numbers, so many rehearsals at MHS are dedicated to choreography under the direction of Ellory Jennings. Andrew Scoglio, head teacher of the music department at MHS,

is in charge of music direction and coaching the actors in their singing performances, and Skeffington handles scene work and lighter choreography.

While the actors are hard at work, the crew is active behind the scenes. This past Saturday, the crew met to build sets using materials donated from Gilbert and Coles. The crew has plenty of unusual props to work on, including silly protest signs, rhythmic streamers and even cardboard cut-outs of characters. The opening scene of the show takes place in Sardi’s, a New York diner famously covered wall-to-wall with celebrity caricatures. To recreate this aesthetic, MHS senior and artist Rachael Albert has been commissioned to paint portraits of Drama Club seniors and a handful of MHS teachers. Obviously, one of the most important parts of the show are the proms. And yes, there are

multiple. In order to costume the ensembles of these scenes,

the club is holding a dress drive in the MHS lobby. After the show, the community donations will be given to Becca’s Closet, a nonprofit that provides prom dresses for high schoolers in need.

Additionally, the Magic Hat has been a huge help in supplying costume items to the crew. Student costume designers Mollie Farber and Monica Pechhold have already been to the Magic Hat to collect donated items.

The Friends of the Performing Arts have been instrumental in getting resources to the crew, advertising the show and giving the cast unique opportunities. One of FoPA’s most recent activities has been placing purple lawn signs all over town to advertise the show and drum up excitement. When rehearsals were just beginning, FoPA organized a field trip for the cast and crew to a professional production of “The Prom” at the Palace Theater in Manchester, New Hampshire, where students had the chance to talk with the actors and ask questions.

As things are starting to come together and opening night is on the horizon, Skeffington expressed her hopes for this year’s show, especially coming off the coattails of last year’s successful production of “Legally Blonde.”

“I hope that despite ‘The Prom’ being maybe not as wellknown, the humor and the love and the message really comes through,” she said.

Skeffington added that if the show makes a single person in the audience, who can relate to one of the musical’s characters, feel seen, she will consider it a success.

Moulton tells Racial Justice Team about GI Restoration Bill

BY LEIGH BLANDER

Congressman Seth Moulton, who grew up in Marblehead and served four tours in Iraq as a Marine after 9-11, says he wouldn’t be on Capitol Hill today if it weren’t for the GI Bill, which helped pay for his graduate studies at Harvard. Moulton has written the GI Restoration Bill to make sure the descendents of Black World War II veterans denied their GI Bill benefits due to systemic racism get the same support.

“If you’re the granddaughter of a Black World War II veteran who did not get the GI benefits that he earned, you can now go to school with the government’s help,” Moulton said recently during a Zoom program with the Marblehead Racial Justice Team.

ladder: home ownership and an education. That’s not just an injustice to Black veterans but to Black families. It’s a generational injustice.”

The racial wealth gap in greater Boston in 2023 is staggering: The median net worth for white households was $250,000 while for Black households it was $8, according to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s office. Moulton conceded that it has been an uphill battle to win Republican support for his GI Restoration Bill. He doesn’t yet know what it would cost.

» Extend access to the Post-911 GI Bill education assistance benefits to the

The GI Bill was signed into law in 1941 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, offering a range of benefits to veterans, including low-cost mortgages and low-interest loans to start a business or farm, unemployment compensation and education assistance. These loans were regularly denied to Black veterans due to racism at the time.

I felt connected to the world around me and the people in my life. And I felt empowered and inspired to shine even brighter the next day.

Sometimes these seemingly insignificant actions can be more difficult to do and see because they’re not what the world dictates or expects from us. But they are needle-movers and game-changers.

In New York and New Jersey suburbs, fewer than 1% of the mortgages insured by the GI Bill went to Black borrowers after the war, according to Moulton.

In Mississippi in 1947, only two

I didn’t do anything on Monday. I slayed it. I didn’t “try” to do things I’m perfectly capable of doing (like we so often say about the behaviors we know we should do but just don’t, right?). I just did them. No negotiating, no “maybe tomorrows.”

Before you go to bed tonight

Grab your journal or iPhone (open a Note) and retrace your steps today, like I did above. Write down the behaviors no one may have noticed or were unremarkable and seemingly

of the more than 3,200 home loans administered by the Veterans Administration went to Black borrowers.

“Way, way, way less than 1%, which is just shocking,” Moulton said.

He added, “As a result, so many Black families have been denied the two primary post-war vehicles for wealth accumulation and rising up the income

insignificant. As you reflect on the list, notice how it changes your thoughts about the day, your beliefs about yourself, and how you feel putting your head on your pillow and contemplating tomorrow.

The takeaway

The person you want to be is already inside of you. If you think or dream about a version of yourself you are wanting and waiting to become, know this: You are that person now.

The only difference between this version and that version

However, “the relatively large price tag on this legislation is just a measurement of the size of this injustice, and that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t correct it,” he said.

Moulton continued, “This is not my generation’s fault, but it is my generation’s opportunity to correct this historic injustice and do right by our American values.”

Moulton’s GI Restoration Bill would do the following:

is your thoughts, beliefs and behaviors. Manifesting is becoming who you already are. One choice at time, choose your thoughts, beliefs and behaviors — big and seemingly insignificant, and you’re there. No more waiting to see if it happens, or trying to become something you’re not. The quickest way to manifest your best self is making small, consistent, conscious and intentional choices every single day. Not because they change you, but because they are you.

The version of you that is always accessible.

Wendy Tamis Robbins is an anxiety expert, bestselling author of “The Box: An Invitation to Freedom From Anxiety” and founder of CAVE Club, a wellness community exclusively for professional women. She works globally as a mental health and wellness coach, speaker and advocate. She will be speaking and signing books at Shubie’s Marketplace on May 11 at 4 p.m.

COURTESY PHOTO

MHS Drama Club performers gather with their rainbow streamers to review choreography during rehearsals for ‘The Prom.’

Seth Moulton speaks by Zoom to the Marblehead Racial Justice Team about his GI Restoration Bill recently.

Online shopping tips

BY STEPHEN BACH

Today, we’re going to take a quick dive into online shopping: deals, steals and safe shopping. Ready to unlock the secrets to online shopping mastery? We’ve got your back with powerful hacks to save big and snag the best deals. Become a savvy shopping pro with these insider tips:

» Befriend browser extensions: Download free browser extensions that automatically search for coupons and promo codes while you shop. Honey and

FOOD 101

RetailMeNot are popular choices.

» The art of comparison shopping: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Utilize price comparison websites to find the best deals across different retailers.

» Incognito mode is your friend: Websites often track your browsing history and inflate prices based on past searches. Use incognito mode to potentially see lower initial offers.

» Coupon code magic: Don’t underestimate the power of a good coupon code. Search for specific codes related to the item or retailer before checkout.

Patience is a virtue (and saves money): Unless it’s a limited-time offer, consider waiting before hitting “purchase.” Prices often drop, especially around major sales holidays.

The power of waiting to buy:

Sometimes, adding items to your cart and then leaving them there for a while can trigger a discount code or reminder email from the retailer. Master the art of free shipping: Many retailers offer free shipping when you spend a certain amount. Consider grouping purchases to reach that sweet spot. Rewards are your friends: Many online stores offer rewards programs. Signing up can earn you points towards future discounts and exclusive deals.

Bonus tip: As an avid online shopper, The Digital Docs have been using the extension

“Rakuten” to earn money every time we buy something. We’ve received back at least a few hundred dollars in the last couple of years. We’ve found it to be safe and not intrusive. If you want to try it out, go to bit. ly/4cwoF8S.

Also, follow your favorite brands and retailers on social media. They often announce sales, flash coupons and promo codes through these channels.

By using these hacks, you’ll be well on your way to online shopping mastery. Happy shopping (and saving).

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

Celebrate longer, warmer days with asparagus

BY LINDA BASSETT

Birdsong. Artichokes. Asparagus. Although artichokes are my favorite, asparagus is more approachable, easier to prep, eat and clean.

So, where to start. At the market, choose firm, uniform green and tightly closed tips. Pencil-thin stalks are great, but fat asparagus is a revelation, especially when baked under a cloud of buttery parmesan cheese.

Store it in the vegetable drawer. Experts say no longer than 24 hours, but I’ve stretched that another 24 on occasion. No longer. Buds separate and wilt. I store it upright in a tall glass with a small amount of water to keep it hydrated, and preserve the buds’ texture. Splayed tops are just plain ugly to the eye and the palate.

To ready the veggie, rinse thoroughly in a colander under cool running water. Then trim, bending each stalk: it will break naturally at just the right point. (Thick asparagus benefits from a few swipes of a vegetable peeler.) You can freeze the tougher stems in plastic bags, but however many

times I do this, I just throw them out in the end. Time to cook. First, set a large bowl of ice water right by the stove. Fill a skillet halfway with water and bring it to a mad, rolling boil. Add the asparagus. Let the water return to a boil; cook until the color brightens. This takes only a few minutes, depending on the thickness of the stalks. Take one out and bite into it. Asparagus should be al dente, tender with a bit of firmness at the center, not droopy. Use a large, slotted spoon to fish them out of the pot, and put them directly into the ice water to preserve the color. Using tongs, remove the stalks to paper towels and roll gently to dry. Set aside until time to finish by warming with butter in that same skillet. Ready. Asparagus has an affinity for tarragon. Also, for lemon, prosciutto, bacon, eggs and cheese. Any of these, alone or in combination, raise the vegetable to new heights. In a vintage move, pile cooked asparagus on toast and top with a poached egg, a fresh breeze after a winter of avocado toast. Or simply shower a heap of cooked asparagus with hot crumbled bacon and hard-cooked egg yolk. Or substitute fresh lemon zest.

It’s totally acceptable to use fingers to pick up naked asparagus. (Even the snobbiest of food snobs will acknowledge this.) I found this to encourage kids who think they’re getting away with something.

That’s the basics. Time to move on. For a starter or a side dish, make a vinaigrette. (Olive oil, wine vinegar, mustard and salt whisked together according to your taste.) Then toss it with cooked asparagus, still warm. The vegetable will absorb it. Sprinkle chopped pimientos over the top.

The next level: Thaw and roll out frozen puff pastry sheets according to the package directions.

Spread thinly sliced prosciutto with whipped cream cheese, bundle three thin (par-cooked)

spears together and wrap in prosciutto. (The cream cheese holds it all together.) Now wrap a square of pastry around each bundle and bake, according to package directions.

And still more: I wish I could list so many more recipes for asparagus omelets, risottos, frittatas or salads with snap peas and fennel, but you get the drift. Asparagus-orzo salad tossed with bright chopped vegetables –radish slices, snipped chives, thinly sliced fennel, baby carrots, and red onion with grated lemon zest and home whisked dressing. (Experiment with olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, etc. -you’ll be proud of your accomplishment.) Baked asparagus. (For thick asparagus only.)

Spread the bottom of a large ceramic baking dish with a thin layer of olive oil. Then add parboiled asparagus in a single layer, stalks touching, and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top. Okay, blanket it – it’s even better! A drizzle of melted butter and a 350F oven finishes the job. Keep an eye out until the cheese melts so it doesn’t burn.

And the challenge:

CREAM OF ASPARAGUS SOUP

Makes 4 to 6 servings. Use fresh grated lemon zest or tarragon leaves as seasoning, added near the end of cooking to release the flavor.

For a smooth soup, treat the stalks to a few hearty swipes of a vegetable peeler before cooking. ` 1 medium size sweet

onion, e.g. Vidalia, chopped (some cooks use 2 or 3 onions)

` 1 large baking potato, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces

` 1 stick unsalted butter

` 1 tablespoon olive oil (nothing fancy, 100% is fine)

` 4 to 6 cups chicken stock (boxed is okay)

` 2 pounds asparagus, tips separated from stalk (save both)

½ cup half-and-half

`

` Zest of 1 lemon, optional

` Salt, pepper to taste Melt butter and olive oil in a soup pot. Add onions and potato and cook, slowly, gently, until tender and golden. Be careful not to burn or brown. Add chicken stock and bring to a boil.

Bend and break the stalks, discarding the very tough ends. Chop them into small pieces. Add to the pot. Simmer at least 30 minutes until the asparagus is tender.

Now is the time to get out that immersion (or stick) blender. Then puree it right in the pot. (I find this easier to clean up than a food processor and there’s no need to be concerned that hot soup will explode through the feed tube).

Continue to simmer gently until the soup is as creamy as you like. Stir in the half-and-half.

In a skillet, warm the asparagus tips. Add them to the pot, setting some aside for garnish. Stir and warm the whole. Ladle the soup into bowls. Shower with extra asparagus tips and lemon zest.

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

Signs of spring: Daylight saving time. Tulips.

The ’60s was a Golden Age of Opportunity for Everyman and Everywoman, sparked by a homely little car shaped like a beetle. Thanks to its incredible performance and affordability as documented in Reader’s Digest and Popular Mechanics, the Volkswagen was beginning to make its presence known to the American carbuying public by the late 1950s.

Beginning in 1959 and throughout the 1960s, incisive, mind-engaging, productendearing advertising created by New York’s Doyle Dane Bernbach ad agency made the VW the hot new cool car to own, introducing the formula ad-constricted advertising industry to a whole new breed of consumer: human beings with brains and even a sense of humor. (Sample Doyle Dane VW headlines: “Think small.” “Lemon.” “Ugly is only skin deep.”)

Stepping off the elevator into the Ingalls Advertising agency at 137 Newbury St. in Boston on Oct. 22, 1964, strode an amazingly lucky rookie copywriter by the name of me. The first of many lucks was finding out that Ingalls was the only agency outside of Doyle Dane allowed to create Volkswagen ads.

As told to me, the HansenMacPhee Volkswagen Northeast distributor in Brookline had some-miraculous-how been granted permission to create

guy named Jay Hill, who’s seen some of my work and who’s recommending me for his job as copy supervisor at the Bresnick agency. He’s leaving to go to BBD&O (and soon thereafter he’ll depart BBD&O to become a founding partner of one of the greatest agencies that ever lived, Hill, Holliday, Connors & Cosmopulos). Given a move up in title and huge jump in salary, I make the move.

Just 13 months (no kidding) later, I go back to Ingalls as copy chief because Ray Welch is leaving. In the course of the next just 16 months before I go to the K&E agency in October ’69 as creative director, I get to do four VW ads (one of which, headlined “Runabout,” says the price for the Beetle then was all of $1,639.)

the snow plow?” — voted Best Television Commercial of the Century at the Cannes Festival of Creativity. This same David Herzbrun just so happened to be the new creative director at — where else? — Ingalls!

Needless to say, I showed David my portfolio, figuring maybe I’d get some freelance and buy time to decide my next move. David seemed impressed with my work and said he’d keep me in mind.

Just a week later, he called and said Ingalls had just been assigned the Dukakis for Governor campaign — would I be willing to freelance the writing, working with art director Paul Regan on it?

The wonderful wacko-crazyturvy-topsy world of the ad agency biz in the ’60s continued for me with three top creative awards, a first-of-its-kind title (concept director), one more creative directorship and a firing (“creative” is my soul; “directing” — meetings, pitchmaking, memos, firing people — not for me).

Finally, the light bulb went on, and I realized I had to be a “method actor”: Write to each target audience in its own identifiable voice. My copy streamed through. I was assigned top accounts, got raises, won some creative awards and recognitions.

ads for such as Boston Pops and Boston Symphony programs — to the tune of maybe half dozen ads a year. The media commissions would have amounted to only a pittance, of course, but the opportunity to quietly include a few VW ads in pitches to prospective clients? Pop the corks. This news was exciting to hear of course, but did me no good. The only one writing Volkswagen was copy chief Ray Welch. So I plugged away, enjoying the lively environment, brainstorming and swapping hoots and hollers with the sparkling multiflavored crew the Doyle Dane inspired Mad Men era agency biz attracted. I stumbled at the beginning, trying to write even the most straight-on Charlestown Savings Bank ad or Stowe-Woodward rubber-coated rolls for the paper industry ad as if it were a Volkswagen ad. I was getting a lot of blue-penciled copy back from Ray.

March 1967, I get a call from a

Luckily, I had a letter of agreement in the last place, with three months’ severance to decide what next — stay in the agency box, or risk going out on my own.

In August 1974, Luck with a capital “L” took form in a man named David Herzbrun, who just happened to create the legendary VW “Snow Plow” ad — “How does the man who drives the snow plow get to

Long story short, I had a ball working with Paul on the campaign. Mike Dukakis was easy to work with, he won the election, and with the money I earned I made one of the best decisions I ever made in my life: I went out on my own in business in the greatest place in the world, Marblehead, on Nov. 4, 1974.

Added bonuses were my wonderful friendship with David Herzbrun and the surprise continued reference to the VW “family” when, in 1978, Dukakis’ campaign manager, Joe Grandmaison, now head of the New England Regional Commission for Travel, invited Baker Advertising to compete for the federally funded $650,000 tourism account for all six New England states!

A fascinating roller-coaster case history... to be continued. Bob Baker is one very lucky guy.

and chocolate and vanilla Hoodsies. They were listening to a special playlist for the occasion, with songs like “Moondance” and tracks from “Dark Side of the Moon.”

As artists, they were excited to see how the eclipse would change colors around them. People also gathered at the Marblehead Yacht Club. And town officials at Abbot

Col. Azor Orne helped champion the Revolution

BY PAM PETERSON

Colonel Azor Orne and his half-brother Major Joshua Orne were fervent patriots and supporters of the Revolutionary cause. They both served on the Committee of Correspondence, which was formed to call the world’s attention to Colonial grievances, including the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. They recommended non-importation of tea, challenged the tea tax and actively supported the town of Marblehead’s right to defend itself against injustice.

Azor Orne was part of a group of men who petitioned the town of Marblehead and financed a smallpox hospital on

OBiTUA riES

Michael Brings, 66

Michael Brings was born and raised in Marblehead. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. Michael is survived by his wife, Cathy, along with three children; Samantha Brings, Heather Gerrard, and Heidi B. of Salem; and five siblings and their spouses; Donald Brings and Kathy of Haymarket, Virginia; Cheryl O’Brien and Kevin of Ypsilanti, Michigan; Kathy Wolniewicz and Richard of

Whitney W. Shattuck, 92

Whitney W. Shattuck passed away peacefully on April 1 after a year-long battle with cancer. Whitney was 92 years young. To say that Whitney loved life would be an understatement. He greeted each day with a smile that lit up the room.

Whitney had a knack for telling stories which he readily admitted to embellishing. He used to say that his father once told him, “If you’re going to tell a story, make sure it’s a good one!” He had that technique perfected!

John Robert Shek, 66

John Robert Shek, 66, of Seminole, Florida, died on March 23.

Cat Island in 1773 (now known as Children’s Island). Their intentions were good, but people in Marblehead felt alarmed and angry about the hospital. Though many were vaccinated, some cases of smallpox were reported, and there was panic about the hospital. Then in 1774 the hospital was burned down. This was a confusing and unfortunate incident, in which many of Marblehead’s leaders tried to do what they thought was right, but the venture failed. For more information about the Cat Island Smallpox Hospital, read “Colonial Marblehead: From Rogues to Revolutionaries” by Lauren Fogle. Azor Orne continued to be active in town affairs, and to promote the Patriotic cause. He was one of several men from Marblehead, including Elbridge Gerry and Jeremiah Lee, who

Magnolia; Mark Brings and Janet of Marblehead; and Lisa Martin of Marblehead; as well as several nieces and nephews. Michael was a warm character

Whitney loved to cruise the coast of Maine in his beloved wooden sailboat Arion, which he lovingly and fastidiously cared for over 43 years. He loved playing tennis and

He was born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1957 to Dr. John Leonard Shek and Patricia Turnbull Shek. He was a graduate of Phillips Exeter Academy, the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Thomas Cooley Law School and Boston University Law School. He was a father, a friend, an attorney,

Lucille Anne Senigo, 83

Lucille Anne Senigo, 83, of Marblehead passed away on March 1. She was the wife of the late George Panteledes, her first husband, and the late Robert Senigo, her second husband. Born in Somersworth, New Hampshire, Senigo was the daughter of the late Alcide and Dorothy (Chick) Dumais. She is survived by a son, Michael Panteledes and his wife, Kris Olsen; a daughter, Lisa Thibodeau and her husband,

met at the Black Horse Tavern on the road between Cambridge and Lexington on April 19, 1775.

They met with Sam Adams and John Hancock. All the men were members of the important Province Committee of Safety

who spent his early adulthood working for D.M. Brings and Sons of Marblehead, installing doors and windows. He then moved on to work at three different Home Depots for 25 years. He was seen as the man to turn to if you needed help. His knowledge and skills were his assets and his approachable nature lent itself to so many honoring him in his retirement. One of his favorite holidays was Christmas. He loved the “HO HO HO” of the season. His smile and good nature created a welcoming place for all who visited. Even though he grew up in Massachusetts, his heart

badminton over the years with his many friends. His enthusiasm was infectious. Whitney loved spending quiet time at the library. The Marblehead Council on Aging became a favorite spot for him in his later years, where he enthusiastically participated in pickleball, curling and bocce to name just a few. He was the first person in their gym each morning to get in a bit of exercise.

Whitney was a man of great honor and integrity and was so very proud of his service to his country (Navy) during the Korean War. Whitney cherished spending time with his family and friends, catching up on all

a fisherman, a painter and a Daoist.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John L. and Patricia Shek, and is survived by his daughters, Madeleine and Katherine; his ex-wife, Sandra; his sister, Eugenie; his brother, Peter; and Peter’s family and his half-brother, Michael; and Michael’s family.

John was an active member of the local community in the many places he lived and traveled in his adult life. For almost 20 years, he resided in Marblehead,

Richard Thibodeau; a sister, Elaine Pepin; grandchildren, Nick and Phoebe Thibodeau; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a

sister, Linda Lamprey. She was a very loving and caring person and was and always will be loved.

Senigo grew up in Somersworth and graduated from Somersworth High School with the class of 1958. She raised her family in Marblehead. She was originally trained as a hair stylist and worked in that field until moving on to work as an administrative assistant for much of her life.

Funeral services are private. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Senigo’s family.

out in the fields.

Azor Orne contributed a great deal of money to the Revolution. During the war, there was no government, no treasury and no funding except what was donated by those who believed in the cause. Orne was active in government all his life.

After the Revolution he was a delegate to the Massachusetts Constitutional Convention and voted in favor of the U.S. Constitution.

and Supplies. They hid from the Redcoats who were searching for what the British called the “Rebel Congress.” They all escaped capture, but Lee died several weeks later from a cold caught that night while hiding

belonged to New Hampshire. He learned to ski at King Pine, camped at Shaw Town and swam at White Lake. While raising his three children, Michael enjoyed sailing, skiing, hiking, waterskiing and yearly vacations in the White Mountains, as well as in Wells Beach, Maine. He enjoyed taking family and friends out on his many adventures. He and his wife Cathy enjoyed traveling together throughout their 43.5-year marriage. Twenty years ago, Michael decided it was time to settle in New Hampshire. He put a house on a piece of land in Silver Lake and

the latest news.

Whitney was a kind, caring and generous man who never complained, even when things seemed unbearably difficult. Truly an eternal optimist. He was always there for anyone in need of a helping hand.

All who knew and loved him will miss him dearly.

Whitney was predeceased by his parents, Carl and Eleanor Shattuck and his two brothers, Seth and Merrill Shattuck.

Whitney leaves behind his wife, Sheri, with whom he shared many wonderful memories and adventures during their 40 years of marriage; his daughter Kate Shattuck of Maine, his two nephews, Scott (Judi) Shattuck

where he raised his daughters and caught many striped bass and bluefish. He was a kind and gregarious individual who made friends easily. John very highly valued his relationships with others and loved his friends with his whole heart.

John was a truly passionate man. He brought a positive attitude and vivid spirit to everything he did. John was a devoted practitioner of Tai-chi and a faithful student of the Dao. He was a great fisherman. He was an artist of several mediums,

Samuel Roads in “The History and Traditions of Marblehead” noted that for the year 1799, “little of especial interest to the people of Marblehead appears to have occurred except the death of Colonel Azor Orne.”

Pam Peterson chairs the Marblehead Historical Commission. She is the former Marblehead Museum executive director.

stated his dream had come true. Michael was a force of nature with his outgoing, adventurous personality.

May his memories with those who knew him bring happiness, love, laughter and light to their hearts, as he was an honorable man. If you crossed his path he was sure to make you laugh. He will be greatly missed by so many.

There will be a Celebration of Life at Masonic Hall, 62 Pleasant St., on Saturday, April 20, from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Michael loved desserts and would appreciate it if you bring your favorite desserts to share and bring smiles to all who attend.

of Melrose and Geoff (Pamela) Shattuck of Florida, his niece, Wendy (Erik) Shattuck of California, his brother-in-law, Skip Curley (Jacqueline) of Rockport, his son Dave Parker of Connecticut and his three grandsons, Charlie, Jesse and Zac Parker.

In memory of Whitney, please share a smile and a friendly greeting with those who you encounter during your day. He would like that.

A celebration of Whitney’s life will be held later this spring/summer. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com for Whitney’s family.

most prolific in watercolor painting. He was also a poet, a sculptor, an avid art appreciator, a lover of music and an admirer of the wonder and beauty of the natural world. Above all, John was a loving father. In lieu of a funeral service, a celebration of life will be held in the summer in Marblehead; details are to be determined. It was John’s wish for any donations made in his name to go to the Pacifica Graduate Institute, 4767 Sterling Way, Carpinteria, California 93013.

COURTESY MARBLEHEAD MUSEUM PHOTO ARCHIVES / FRED LITCHMAN Colonel Azor Orne’s house at 18 Orne St.

Shining a light on the news you care about!

Headlight

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

2023 - 2024 Issue

Alumni spotlight

Grey Collins, Sophomore

Around this time last year, Chloe Curtis was roaming through the music wing, singing in her a cappella group Luminescence, and preparing for her leading role in "Legally Blonde." But this year she is living in downtown Boston attending Emerson College, scoring roles in competitive musicals, and singing in well known Northeastern University a cappella group Pitch Please.

“Work ethic, drive, and passion are the biggest things I learned from high school,” said Chloe about how her experiences at MHS prepared her for college. In addition to a cappella and musicals, Chloe also worked on choreography and social media for Luminescence, led the Music Honor Society, and participated in the Interact Club, the Drama Club, and Best Buddies.

“The opportunities that high school had, like a cappella and all of the musical stuff that I was more into, I continued into college. I’m even in an a cappella group at Northeastern, even though I go to Emerson,” Chloe said.

We also talked about her transition from Marblehead High School to Emerson, and the challenges she encountered along the way.

“Honestly, I think by the end of high school I was ready for a change. Like after senior year, I just was very excited to be in a new environment some-

www.mhsheadlight.com

where that had a bunch opportunities for interests like mine,” said Chloe about beginning Emerson.

“I personally had a great transition period. I met a bunch of amazing people and from the very beginning… leaving friends and family definitely was hard but it was also rewarding.”

Chloe is majoring in Business of the Creative Enterprise, and she intends to use it to go into artist management, concert planning, or producing. At Emerson, she acts in short films, and was in a musical called “Thirteen.” She contributes to a magazine, and she is currently working on setting up a music festival.

She is also part of a competitive a cappella group at Northeastern called Pitch Please.

“We have recorded an album, and our music video comes out on April 5th,” Chloe said. Pitch Please performs all around the country. They will be performing their Spring Showcase at Northeastern on Sunday, April 21st, and the Tufts Beelzebubs will be the guest performers.

“My favorite part about starting college is probably just all the amazing people that I’ve already met, and being on your own for the first time is very exciting. You learn a bunch of things about yourself that you wouldn’t have learned before.”

I then asked her my most important question of all about her college experience. “The food is actually pretty good. I would give it a solid rating,” she responded.

“Dune: Part Two” -- movie review

Benji Boyd, Junior, Assistant Editor

Back in 2021, the first installment of the “Dune” series directed by Denis Villeneuve was released. In the shadow of the “Star Wars” revival era, viewers were a little suspicious of the notion of another galactic epic, and anyone who had seen David Lynch’s adaptation back in 1984 was probably still recovering. However, a starstudded cast including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Jason Momoa, as well as promising production quality, attracted lots of moviegoers, allowing the film to score in the box office. “Dune” was met with acclaim from critics and audiences alike for its stunning visuals and expert storytelling. Due to its prequel’s success, it was no trouble drumming up excitement this year for the second installment in Villeneuve’s planned trilogy, “Dune: Part Two.”

Check any rating site and you’ll find that the feedback for the sequel is even more glowing than it was for the original two

years ago. The story picks up where “Dune” left off – the protagonist Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) wanders the desert planet of Arrakis with his mother Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) and a band of Fremen, the world’s indigenous cave-dwelling inhabitants. As Paul starts to learn how to survive in the desert – conserving water in ‘stillsuits’, taming the massive sandworms that tunnel beneath the ground, and hiding from enemy soldiers – he begins to find himself torn between the will of his mother and his conscience.

“Dune” contains many metaphors and real-world counterparts, including the clear influence of Christian and Islamic aesthetics and narrative traditions on the story. Paul takes on the archetype of the savior, as Frank Herbert illustrates in his sequel to the “Dune” novel, “Dune: Messiah.” Much of the movie deals with his simultaneous resistance to and pull towards the role, and his character arch is structured around this question. Many of the other char-

Headlight Staff 2023-2024

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF: Ila Bumagin and Mona Gelfgatt

acters in the movie are somewhat one-dimensional; their roles in the story are based around believing either that Paul is the ‘Lisan al-Gaib’ (‘Voice from the Outer World’), like the fanatical leader Stilgar (Javier Bardem), or that he is only a man, like his lover Chani (Zendaya). The movie leaves it up to interpretation to determine whether he is truly the chosen one, or whether his messianic aspirations are the results of greater forces pulling the strings.

The art direction combines inventive sci-fi concepts with thoroughly believable world building. “Dune: Part Two” included even more striking designs than the last, especially in character design. Two new characters entered the scene with a bang: Florence Pugh’s Princess Irulan and Austin Butler’s Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen. Since Florence Pugh first appeared on screen in a chainmail-inspired veil, internet fashion designers have been attempting to imitate the look, and thus bestowing upon her character the mark of an icon. In sharp contrast, Austin Butler is terrifying as the sociopathic heir to the Harkonnen family, the sworn enemies of the Atreides. Completely bald, with paper white skin and black martial clothing, Feyd-Rautha is a visual representation of the brutal and violent empire Paul and the Fremen fight against (nearly as hard as Austin Butler fights his Elvis accent).

Such visual stimulation

April 10, 2024

keeps viewers engaged through the nearly three hour long movie and willing to keep watching. Thanks to all the set-up the prequel provided, “Dune: Part Two” jumps seamlessly into the story with little exposition to bog it down. Just as Paul’s journey with the Fremen is starting to get old, the narrative shifts to the Harkonnens. Shifting the perspective between different groups paints a richer and more complete picture of this fictional world. For example, the mysterious order of women known as the ‘Bene Gesserit’ seem to have goals beyond the other characters’ comprehension, which makes their spying and manipulation of power all the more intriguing. “Dune: Part Two” expands on the complex universe introduced by “Dune” and leaves viewers wanting to learn more.

If the buzz surrounding “Dune” back in 2021 wasn’t enough to convince you to give this series a try, let the success of “Dune: Part Two” convince you. Denis Villeneuve stays consistent in applying his unique vision to Frank Herbert’s creation, and he remains uncompromising in his commitment to the atmosphere he has created. There can be no doubt that the creative team behind the “Dune” movies is certain of what they want, and they are determined to give it to audiences. “Dune: Part Two” has left fans new and old waiting for the third installment to round out what could be the defining sci-fi feature for an entire generation.

"Anyone But You" -- movie review

Ila Bumagin, Senior, Co-Editor-in-Chief

Are you ready for warmer weather? Ready or not, "Anyone But You" will fly you straight into summer. With the perfect amount of cheesy romance, comedy, and familial struggles, you can't help but root for Bea and Ben. The movie came out in 2023 and can be watched on Apple TV or Amazon Prime.

One day in Boston, aspiring lawyer Bea (Sydney Sweeney) runs into Ben (Glen Powell), and despite some awkward shenanigans, they hit it off. The duo spends a lovely day talking and being surprisingly vulnerable. But of course, nothing is perfect at first, and the pair separates on bad terms.

Months later, crazy coincidence brings them together again. Bea's sister and Ben's friend are getting married. Since it's a movie, the wedding party gets to stay in a private estate in Australia in the week preceding the wedding. The clear blue water stretches forever, the sun shines, and the palm trees sway. The fiances are introduced, sun kissed and head over heels in love. We also meet Bea's pressuring parents and some of their

high expectations for Bea.

But since it's a romance, Ben and Bea just have to share a room. Thus begins the bickering and avoidance of feelings that define their relationship. Despite endless contrived romantic situations, their families' best efforts, and their true feelings, Bea and Ben resist their love. They even try to con themselves out of the situation and trick their families. But in the end, love will always win, and the pair will literally fall head over heels for each other.

It's hard to tell if I loved this movie as much as I did because it's actually that good or because I needed something light but engaging to take me away from my senior year stress. Either way, the combination of stupid Gen-Z humor, slapstick, hilarious situations, and romance was exactly what I needed. Although it's cheesy and a little too perfect, it would be hard to leave this movie without being excited for a summer in Marblehead and an absolute love for the song "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield. So, before you make your summer plans, take a moment to watch "Anyone But You!"

ASSISTANT EDITORS: Benji Boyd, Rachael Albert TECHNOLOGY EDITOR: Kate Twomey

REPORTERS: Nathaniel Carper-Young, Grey Collins, Tucker Crane, Aislin Freedman, Kathleen Hanson, Samuel Jendrysik, Anya Kane, Nina Lees, Georgia Marshall, Charlie Seliger, Livia Weiss

FACULTY ADVISOR: Thomas Higgins

Current Events

Taste of the North Shore

Wednesday, April 10, 6:30 p.m.

After nearly a decade, Taste of the North Shore is back at Temple Emanu-El, 393 Atlantic Ave. Come sample tastings from 18 North Shore caterers and restaurants. Marblehead establishments include: Sea Salt, Maria’s Gourmet, Amores Mexican Kitchen, Soall Viet Kitchen, Elia Taverna and Three Hundred Fifty Bakery. $80 per ticket. For more info, visit emanu-el.org/taste-of-the-north-shore. html.

Drains, Pains and Our Coastal Water Quality

Wednesday, April 10, 6:45 p.m.-8 p.m.

A healthy environment for the Salem Sound watershed towns of Marblehead, Salem, Beverly, Peabody, Danvers and Manchester has been at the heart of Salem Sound Coastwatch’s work from its founding. Learn what has been achieved so far and what now threatens our coastal water quality. This program is live at Abbot Library, 3 Brook Road, and on Zoom. Learn more at abbotlibrary.org.

Neurodiversity meet & greet

Thursday, April 11, 7 p.m. Join The Power of Speech for a neurodiversity meet & greet. All are welcome. Come for drinks, apps and good conversation. 40 South St., Suite 101.

Marblehead Poets Group

Sunday, April 14, 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m.

Marblehead Poets is a collective open to writers in any genre that meets once per month at the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper St., on Sundays to discuss writing practices, share work and provide feedback.

To be added to the Marblehead Poets email list, please contact Katie Naoum Rogers at katie.na.rogers@gmail.com.

Drop-in portrait drawing

Sundays, 9 a.m.-noon Sunday morning drawing sessions are back at the Marblehead Arts Association, 8 Hooper St. Hone your drawing skills and meet new friends while a talented model poses for you to capture their essence on paper. MAA members $15, non-members $20.