The Current is a sponsor of the Marblehead Festival of Arts. Check out our special Festival section, starting on Page 9, which includes a schedule.
Schools to hire independent investigator
Will probe MPS antisemitism accusations, competing claims
BY LEIGH BLANDER
After listening to two hours of emotional public comment about accusations of antisemitism in Marblehead schools, the School Committee voted to hire an independent investigator to look into the claims and counterclaims
More than 140 people, including several from the
Israeli-American Civic Action Network, packed the School Committee meeting Thursday night after a June 10 ICAN webinar where Veterans School teacher Brigitte Karns accused a high school world language teacher with the initials “C.S.” of making antisemitic statements. Karns also accused the teacher of tearing down the Israeli flag in the cafeteria and throwing it in
a corner.
In that webinar, Karns said, “Marblehead has been knowingly supporting a hostile work environment of some of the Jewish teachers and students.
The Marblehead Education Association is using intimidation tactics to silence Jews and then the administration is perpetuating antisemitic and anti-Israel ideology by remaining silent.”
The accused teacher, Candice Sliney, categorically denied the accusations Thursday night.
“In a recent public webinar, Brigitte Karns and other Marblehead public school employees accused me of hateful words and actions that are complete fabrications,” Sliney said. “Nonetheless, seeing that disturbing language repeated and reproduced over social media caused tremendous harm to our Jewish friends and neighbors, and I want to acknowledge the pain they were subjected to because of her choice to use such inflammatory language about a person she has never met.”
Sliney spoke about her
Beating the heat
Kids came out on a hot and humid afternoon last Thursday to enjoy a summer splash courtesy of the Marblehead Fire Department. MFD brought its ladder truck to the Community Center parking lot and rained water from a fire hose down on the crowd below. Photographer Grey Collins captured the kids’ joy.
Assessor remains on paid leave
BY WILL DOWD
Town Assessor Karen Bertolino remains on paid administrative leave, costing taxpayers more than $23,000 over the last three months. Bertolino was placed on leave after residents expressed frustration over property revaluations and significant increases in their tax bills. In response, the board approved over 80% of the 344 abatement applications, resulting in approximately $541,000 in reduced property taxes.
On June 20, the Board of Assessors voted to write a letter explaining the issues with last year’s assessments and post it to its website at marblehead.org/assessors-office. The letter will be reviewed by the board at its next meeting and vetted by town counsel before release.
A town-commissioned audit, conducted by independent consultant Jim Doherty, reviewed the valuation process overseen by Bertolino based on 2022 sales data.
Board Chair John Kelley has said findings from the audit — which the board voted to release to Bertolino — showed significant issues with land valuations, though the specifics have not been disclosed to the public. The board also voted to consult legal counsel on possibly releasing a redacted version.
Board member Jonathan Lederman, whom voters recently elected in a write-in campaign, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability.
“Everybody wants everybody to know what happened to the maximum extent possible,” Lederman said. “It’s important to try to communicate with the community, to understand what went wrong, how it went wrong and what we’re doing to make it right.” Bertolino has not responded to the Current’s requests for comment.
This is the finalweekofour spring fundraising. We aresograteful to who has contributed: Thank you! And to our match challenge sponsorsPeggy Schrage, the Marblehead Current Board of Directors, and theShube, Sheridan, Weed and Hill familiesThank you! Thank you! Thank you!
M un ICIPAL MATTeRS
Su MMeR F un
School Committee signs two-year deal with new interim super
Contract includes $50K no-cause termination payout
BY LEIGH BLANDER
The School Committee approved a two-year contract for new interim Superintendent John Robidoux, who starts on July 1. Robidoux will be paid $208,000 the first year. His salary for the second year is listed as “to be determined.”
Robidoux just left the superintendent position in Swansea. He lives in Rhode Island.
The contact includes a no-cause early termination payment of $50,000. Member Al Williams, who joined the School Committee in February, asked his colleagues why they needed that.
“For us to terminate someone without cause, what’s the scenario where that happens?” he said. “Typically, if we’re documenting and doing a good job evaluating employees, that wouldn’t happen.”
Jenn Schaeffner, who was chosen as chair of the School Committee that evening, replied, “It could be any number of reasons why.”
Added member Sarah Fox, “Without it, you would need to go to arbitration or pay the entire contract.”
Last summer, the School
public record of starting and leading Team Harmony, a local youth organization dedicated to fighting hate; working on the Marblehead Task Force Against Discrimination; and partnering with the ADL to train students and teachers to fight antisemitism and discrimination.
Referring to Karns, Sliney said, “Every single accusation was a lie. She has attacked my character, endangered my family and put my career at risk, with zero evidence.”
Sliney urged the School Committee to hire the independent investigator.
‘Met with retaliatory acts’ Karns spoke as well, saying, “Antisemitic language, antiIsrael bias and personal political ideologies have no place within our school community. Not adequately addressing complaints about them is troubling.”
Another teacher, Mindy Greenberg, said she is leaving Marblehead schools after 22 years “because of the hostile work environment of my co-workers.”
In addition to an outside investigator, Greenberg urged the School Committee to review the district’s civil rights complaints policies.
“The procedure was not followed by the district administration,” she said.
Greenberg described making complaints to district leaders.
“I was met with retaliatory acts,” she said. “I was told that my complaint was taken seriously and concluded. The harassment continued. What I went through this year has been horrible. The School Committee needs to take over the investigation and make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.”
Defending Sliney
Multiple teachers spoke in defense of Sliney, including MHS Spanish teacher and varsity soccer coach Elmer Magana.
“The accusations of racism and antisemitism against our high school world languages department, and in particular Candice Sliney, are not true
Committee paid former superintendent John Buckey nearly $175,000 in a separation agreement. This year, the district also paid the former student services director and assistant director a total of $124,000 in separation agreements.
Robidoux’s contract also states that the School Committee needs to let him know by March 2026 if it wants to hire him for a longer period of time.
Robidoux arrives at a tumultuous time for the district. It faces a civil rights lawsuit over a student restraint and contract talks with the teachers union
have been heated, with the School Committee and union filing grievances against each other. There are also several new district leaders after an exodus over the winter and spring.
Student services shortfalls
At the same June 20 meeting, the School Committee heard about the Department of Secondary Education’s review of Marblehead’s student services department. Among the 34 categories, Marblehead did not score a single one in the “commendable” range.
Six areas fell into the “partially
implemented” range, requiring further improvements.
Those areas include the following findings: IEPs not always issued in a timely manner, some services delayed without written notice to families, and some re-evaluations and annual reviews not completed in time.
The district is hiring an outside consultant to conduct a comprehensive audit of the special services department.
MHS to receive $75K state skills capital grant
Marblehead High School has been awarded $75,000 from the state to upgrade technology and instructional lab spaces and expand career and workforce training programs.
MHS is one of 65 high schools, colleges and other educational institutions to receive a total of $15 million in skills capital grants.
“Schools receiving skills capital grants partner with local businesses and align curriculum and credentials with industry standards, ensuring our students are prepared for when they enter the workforce,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “These grants are a win for our students, schools, employers and local communities.”
at all,” he said. “She has and continues to advocate for people of all walks of life. Please do not believe the statements you hear, especially on social media, even if they come from your community. Please check the facts. We treat everybody equally and with respect. We are Marblehead strong, and we shall overcome.”
Teacher Laura Alvarez added, “I am one of the teachers accused of antisemitism. We teach your children about empathy, respect and acceptance. We want to put a face to all the dreadful lies that have been told about us.”
Meredith Reardon, a longtime guidance counselor who worked with Sliney on Team Harmony and with the ADL, said, “I am a really good judge of character, and I can tell you Candice Sliney did not make those comments.”
Deacon John Whipple, who co-founded the Task Force Against Discrimination in Marblehead decades ago, defended Sliney and warned
against unproven accusations.
“What I am urging everyone to understand is that an accusation is not necessarily true just because it has been made, even just because it has been made by somebody with whom you are in sympathy,” he said. “It has to be considered carefully. I think the fact that Candice Sliney is such a fine and upstanding member of the Task Force Against Discrimination and Team Harmony and the school faculty should give anyone pause.”
Three requests
Some residents of Marblehead, many identifying as IsraeliAmerican, expressed concern and fear about the accusations of antisemitism.
“We must believe Jewish people when they say they’ve been victims of antisemitism,” said Yael Magen.
Magen requested three things from the School Committee. First, that it allows the Jewish community and Jewish organizations to vet whatever organization is chosen to do the investigation. Second, that it investigates all antisemitic incidents against teachers and students. And third, that the committee set up a volunteer task force of Jewish community members to go through all curriculum to make sure it is not antisemitic or anti-Israel.
Sarah Pouladian said both her children have experienced antisemitism in the last year from their Marblehead classmates.
“My son, 11 years old, came home and said, ‘I’m not scared, but what concerns me is that there may be someone in my
class that obviously wants me to die.’ What would you say to your 11-year-old?”
Pouladian and other parents urged the School Committee to establish a volunteer task force made up of local Jewish residents that can make recommendations on combating antisemitism over the summer.
Several people, including Swampscott Rabbi Michael Ragozin, urged that the committee use the definition of antisemitism set by the International Holocaust Remembrance Association. That definition is, “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
The U.S. State Department has adopted the IHRA definition. Human Rights Watch and other critics of the definition, however, say two of the 11 examples of antisemitism it lists can be exploited to censor criticism of Israeli policies. They are:
“Denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination, e.g. by claiming that the existence of a State of Israel is a racist endeavor” and “ Applying double standards by requiring of it a behavior not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation.”
The School Committee said it would schedule a meeting the week of June 24 to review three investigation firms proposed by the committee’s lawyer, to choose the most appropriate one.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
New interim Superintendent John Robidoux will earn $208,000 in the first year of a two-year contract.
COURTESY PHOTO / JAMES MARONEY
More than 140 people packed a School Committee meeting June 20 to address accusations of antisemitism in Marblehead schools.
CURRENT PHOTO /
MCC
Counseling Center hosts first-ever Community Wellness Day
BY LIA GORBACH
The Marblehead Counseling Center hosted its inaugural Community Wellness Day at Hobbs Playground on Saturday, June 22.
The event was the first of a series of four events to commemorate MCC’s 55th year providing mental health services to the community.
“We’re using this to give back to the community for all of its support over the years,” Counseling Center Vice President Ron Grenier said.
The event kicked off with a performance by the local singing group, Shooting Stars. Six elementary school girls took the mic, led by instructor and life coach Molly Williams.
The story behind Dragonfly Unique Curations
BY MELISSA STACEY
The following is an interview with Tanis Yannetti, co-owner of Dragonfly Unique Curations, conducted by Discover Marblehead. The shop is located at 133 Washington St. It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. You can also follow the store on Instagram at @ dragonflyshopmhd.
What is the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received? The best piece of business advice I ever received was observed rather than articulated. I worked with my father, Ronnie Yannetti, in a family business for many years, and even before I worked with him, I watched how he conducted himself in business. He always took the high road and was always a gentleman. My father was beloved by all because he treated everyone with empathy, kindness and respect. When I am at odds with what to do, I try to always ask myself, what would Ronnie do? And then I do that.
Kids enjoyed pony rides, played lawn games and ate popcorn and Italian ice. The Terry’s Old Fashion Ice Cream truck showed up, with everyone getting a complimentary scoop.
“We came up with this idea to celebrate the community and bring wellness and the community together,” Lisa Cohen, the Counseling Center’s business manager, said.
An array of booths were set up in front of the Counseling Center. Local vendors included holistic chiropractors, culinary counselors, a speech therapist, Marblehead Cares, The Mariner, MHD Pride Committee and Body Mind Systems of Swampscott.
Williams teaches kids how to deal with anxiety and build confidence through music and live performances. Saturday’s setlist included empowering songs like, “This is Me,” “The Climb” and “Fight Song.”
Tell us about Dragonfly Unique Curations and why you started it. The store is an intentional eclectic assortment of beautiful, unique and interesting pieces. My mom, Marilyn Yannetti, and I are excited about featuring handcrafted items and giving artists a venue to show their work, while also stocking the store with an ever-changing array of other desirable items. We started this
business to do something creative together as mother and daughter. We wanted to combine our love of art and searching for treasures to share this with our community.
What is your favorite spot in Marblehead, and why? My favorite spot in Marblehead is our home, because it houses our amazing family and beloved dogs.
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you? I don’t think people who know me are surprised by much at all. Take that as you may.
The business spotlight is a weekly feature published in partnership with Discover Marblehead. To learn more, visit discovermhd.com.
Molly Williams’ singing group,
the Community Wellness Day.
during the MCC Community Wellness Day.
Opinion
eDITORIAL
Cause for concern
May is Mental Health Month each year, and on May 16 the School Committee received the 2023-2024 Marblehead High School Survey of Substance Use and Related Factors (SURF), presented by Gina Hart, clinical social worker at the high school. And in early June, Hart presented this report to our Board of Health. This survey is conducted annually at the high school, and all students in all grades are able to participate anonymously, unless they choose to opt out. This year, 85% of the high school students participated, and the results are concerning.
Almost a quarter of the students reported that they deal with anxiety, 15.5% with depression and 11.4% with psychotic experiences. A total of 15.9% reported having suicidal thoughts, and 3.1% reported attempts at suicide. While the reports of anxiety, depression, psychotic experiences and suicidal thoughts are all down slightly from the previous year, perhaps due in part to the passage of time from the pandemic, there is a marked increase in reports of attempted suicide, a frightening development.
The stresses of everyday life affect us all at different times and in different ways, but it is heartbreaking to see the number of our teens who are grappling with mental health issues. Certainly, teenage life has its own challenges as children grow older and begin to take on more responsibilities. Peer pressure, body shaming, gender identity, sexual orientation, bullying and academic demands are some examples of factors that can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression and, in the extreme, psychotic episodes and thoughts of or attempts at suicide.
The study also addresses students’ use of alcohol, cannabis and nicotine. Of those surveyed, 77% reported that they had their first use of alcohol by age 15, 62% reported their first use of cannabis by age 15, and over 72% reported their first use of nicotine by age 15.
While many, if not most, of our readers will likely admit (at least to themselves) to experimenting with these substances as teenagers, what is most alarming in this survey is that, when asked if they had their first use of these substances when they were 12 years old or younger, 10% reported “yes” to alcohol, 8% reported “yes” to cannabis and just under 14% reported “yes” to nicotine.
To its credit, our school department does not ignore this data. Listed in the survey are a multitude of programs already in place to address the mental health of our high school students, and efforts are underway to expand such efforts in the lower grades.
Our Board of Health also has long recognized and supported the need to include mental health as a significant component of its work. The Marblehead Counseling Center and the Marblehead Mental Health Task Force are two more resources dedicated to improving the mental health of our youth population.
We must remain vigilant in all efforts to address the mental health needs of our children, and we are fortunate to have so many community resources who recognize the importance of this issue and dedicate much effort to making life better for them. We can never become complacent. We must always strive to do better. Our children deserve nothing less.
e V eRYTHInG WILL Be OKAY
Move slow
BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM
Raise your hand if you are glad the season’s first heat wave is over. I know some people thrive in oppressive heat — I’m married to one — but most of us reasonable types prefer to spend summer days outside, and that was nearly impossible for many last week. There was a benefit, though, to the high temperatures and humidity. It forced us to slow down, physically, and perhaps mentally, too.
I remember several years ago walking by my family room window and noticing four or five huge black birds crowded onto one of my bushes. They weren’t crows, they weren’t anything I’ve seen before. If I could compare them, I’d say they were similar to white egrets, except black. The funny thing is I didn’t stop and study them for even a few minutes. I registered they were there, and then rushed on to keep doing whatever it was that I was doing.
What could I have been focused on that I didn’t pause to really look at something so unique I still puzzle over it these years later? Nothing I remember. It must have seemed important at the time, and maybe it was important. But the fact that I still think about those birds tells me that I should have moved slower,
really studied them, marveled at them. Who has time to marvel? Last week we did. A friend and his wife spent one of the hottest evenings at Goldthwait Beach and marveled that it was at least 20 degrees cooler there. Cars were parked up and down the streets in our neighborhood like someone was throwing a huge party. We marveled that we get to live in a place other people drive to so they can go to the beach to get relief from the heat. I floated in a friend’s pool and marveled that it could feel cool even though the sun had warmed it up to some 85 degrees.
Remember when the storm rolled in and the heat finally broke? Did you slow down to watch it happen? It was so welcome, I’m guessing yes. The wind seemed to descend in layers, moving only the tops of the trees at first. The sky was dark in patches, as if the clouds hadn’t decided for sure they were coming. We hoped they were coming. Two dragonflies darted together across the backyard, like they were dancing, flying much lower than usual. Do dragonflies hunt for bugs that way? I watched them and wondered, without hurrying away. Distant lightning and thunder, and then drops of rain so plump they seemed more like cartoon drawings of rain drops. And ah, then the downpour. We kept our
doors open to listen even though that meant needing towels to mop up the floor.
There’s an indie band based out of Colorado called LVDY (pronounced LADY) who just released a song called “Move Slow.” There’s a wisdom in the lyrics I wish I understood when I was younger and in such a hurry:
“Red wine on a Sunday, red cheeks on a cold day, music on the stereo. Sunlight through the window, fresh tracks on the new snow, gold leaves have come and gone. So move slow, learn to let go, did you outgrow what’s left behind. No need to hold on to what’s long gone, you’ve been so strong all this time.
Low tide on a full moon, seedlings into full bloom, flat whites in the afternoon. Trusting in the cycles, with spring, revival, shedding of the cocoon.”
So beautiful, thank you LVDY. Move slow. Last week we did. Let us continue to. Oh, magical, mysterious black birds, please come back so I may marvel at you.
A member of the Marblehead Current’s Board of Directors, Virginia Buckingham is the former chief executive officer of the Massachusetts Port Authority, chief of staff to two Massachusetts governors, deputy editorial page editor for the Boston Herald and author of “On My Watch: A Memoir.”
Putting a twist on classic peach dishes
BY LINDA BASSETT
A blueberry cobbler recipe, famously created by Alice Waters, has long been considered the gold standard of that dessert. The West Coast chef reduced the amount of sugar in a traditional cobbler highlighting the fruit’s natural sweetness. On the opposite coast, John Martin Taylor, king of the peach cobbler, does not shy away from sugar. He includes a full cup to his dough — and he’s sticking to it. Surely their surroundings and culinary heritages influenced their choices: Waters’ is a Mediterraneaninfluenced Californian and Taylor is deeply rooted in the Carolina low country.
A cobbler made with fruit is, by definition, a free-form dessert concocted of a fruit base and biscuit topping. The dough is dolloped in a large spoonful onto the fruit, which puffs up in the baking to look like cobblestoned streets.
I prefer peaches over blueberries. I only like blueberries out of a pail during picking expeditions in the wilds of Maine. Instead I combine what I like best from each of these chefs’ recipes. I take Taylor’s peaches and Waters’ dough and add my own touch of raspberries for fun.
Peaches grow more successfully in some places than others. Italy and Georgia, for example. I will never forget tasting a perfect
peach some years ago when staying with my aunts just south of Rome. I let the juice run down my chin and arms to the elbows, thoroughly enjoying and embarrassing myself. I never tasted one that good again.
By June, Georgia peaches make an appearance at certain supermarkets and specialty produce stores. Grab them up as quickly as possible. Look for ripe, unbruised fruit, slightly soft to the touch. If they’re unavailable, wait a few weeks for locally grown ones from mid-July through mid-August. In that fleeting season, chefs and home cooks use them in courses beyond dessert. I’ve seen them paired with onions in a savory jam,
partnered with basil in a pasta dish and stacked with bacon and lettuce in sandwiches.
I nearly always choose yellow peaches rather than the mealier, less sweet white ones. I save those for Bellinis, the effervescent Venetian cocktails. This space needs a Bellini recipe, so here it is:
BELLINI COCKTAIL Bartender Giuseppe Cipriani invented this fizzy drink at Harry’s Bar in Venice. Renaissance artist Giovanni Bellini inspired the rosy color achieved by adding raspberries. In the late 1940s, the artists and writers, like Ernest Hemingway, who frequented Harry’s spread the drink’s
reputation.
` 4 or 5 white peaches, peeled and pitted
` ¾ cup cool water
` 2 tablespoons lemon juice
` 4 ice cubes
` ½ tablespoon granulated white sugar
4 raspberries, fresh or frozen
`
` ¾ cup Prosecco
» Puree all ingredients, except Prosecco, in a blender.
Pour the puree into chilled flutes. Slowly pour in the Prosecco and stir gently. Bellini break over. Back to peach cobbler. More peach wisdom: Do not attempt to ripen on the kitchen counter as nicely as a tomato or avocado. When ripened they do not need refrigeration and will live showily in a bowl on the table for a few short days.
PEACH COBBLER, BELLINI-STYLE
Makes 4 to 6 servings Whipped cream poured over the top of a warm cobbler melts and mingles with the fruit juices. I do not sweeten my whipped cream, but that’s the cook’s choice.
` 4½ cups fresh peaches
` 1/3 cup sugar
` ¾ cup fresh raspberries
` 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
` Dough:
` 1½ cups all-purpose flour
` ½ teaspoon kosher salt
1½ tablespoons sugar
2¼ teaspoons baking powder
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces
CURRENT PHOTO / LINDA BASSETT
Current columnist Linda Bassett writes that freshly picked peaches from a local orchard are the star ingredient in a homemade Bellini-style peach cobbler and a unique PLT (peach, lettuce and tomato) sandwich.
Build for greatness
To the editor: Last week, Marblehead Light Department asked town residents to curtail energy use in response to a massive spike in regional energy prices.*
The problem was upstream: A generator in the regional grid (ISO-NE) which went offline, sending the price for a marginal megawatt hour skyrocketing.
Marblehead, along with towns throughout Massachusetts, faces the problem of how to deal with energy infrastructure that is not just old, but worsening the climate (as I write this, the current energy mix is 55% natural gas).
Recently, we have seen different visions from two of our elected representatives for how to solve this and other difficult problems. Last week, Sen. Edward Markey voted against reducing fees and slashing bureaucratic red tape for the construction of new nuclear reactors. In contrast, Rep. Seth Moulton voted for this measure in May.** Also this week, Moulton called on state legislators to back the Rail Link connecting North and South stations.
The basic philosophical difference here is should we build things, or not? On this issue, Moulton has it right.
Marblehead is a great town at least in part because it’s in a great country, burning with ambition and full of opportunity. But greatness must be earned. It must be built: the Manhattan Project, the interstate highway system, Apollo.
Building an energy-abundant, zero-carbon economy is a challenge on par, if not greater, than those prior achievements.
Food
From P. A4
¾ cup heavy cream, plus additional for serving, if desired
Heat the oven to 375 degrees. To prepare the peaches and berries, place in a bowl and toss with the sugar and flour. Set aside.
» To make the dough: mix the flour, salt, sugar and baking powder in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add the cream and mix lightly, just until the dry ingredients are moistened.
Put the blueberries in a 1½-quart gratin or baking dish. Make patties out of the dough, 2 to 2½ inches in diameter and ½-inch thick. Arrange them over the top of the berries. Bake until the topping is brown and the juices bubble thickly around it, about 35 to 40 minutes.
Let cool slightly. Spoon out of the baking dish to serve warm, with freshly whipped cream.
PLT SANDWICH Makes 4. Switch out tomatoes for peaches for a lively treat.
` 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
` 1 tablespoon spicy honey
` 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
` 8 slices bread, toasted
` 12 to 16 slices crisp bacon
` 4 or 5 medium peaches, pitted, sliced
¼-inch thick
4 to 8 Romaine lettuce leaves
`
» Stir together the mayo, honey and black pepper. Spread over one side of each bread slice.
Pile up bacon and peach slices on 4 slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and remaining 4 slices of bread.
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.
Solar and wind energy will be critical components of the solution. But their intermittency cannot stand alone, particularly with the rise of AI, a prosperitycreating technology that requires “always on” power.
In supporting nuclear power and advocating investment in mass transit, Moulton argues for plentiful zero-carbon energy and a cleaner, more efficient approach to transport. If we want Marblehead’s lights to stay on at a reasonable price, we need this kind of pro-building vision.
Nick Ward Rolleston Road
Thanking the community for supporting Cure
By the Harbor
To the editor:
I am writing to thank the Marblehead community for its support of the Cure By the Harbor, the first of what I believe will become an annual event. Cure By the Harbor was established to honor the memory of my husband Kevin who died in 2021 at 44 of an aggressive form of lung cancer that affects nonsmokers.
Proceeds from this sold-out event, which generated $25,000, will fund research at Mass General focused on rare lung cancers like the one that Kevin was diagnosed with in 2018 at age 41. Prior to his diagnosis, Kevin was extremely healthy and very active, ran races, hiked mountains and coached Marblehead youth sports. In addition to raising much-needed funds we will work to eliminate the stigma often associated with lung cancer, which many assume is a “smoker’s cancer.”
As a lifelong Marbleheader, I
OPIn IOn
am grateful, but not surprised by the outpouring of support from local individuals and organizations. Two dozen area businesses generously donated a fabulous array of auction items or participated as event sponsors. I want to offer a very special shout out to my co-host, Liz Steinfeld of Liz Steinfeld Fine Lingerie who created an amazing fashion show that wowed the crowd; Lindsey Foley of Lindsey Foley Style, our spirited emcee, good friends Christina Ferri and Emily Moss who jumped in to help us plan a multifaceted event, and the Dolphin Yacht Club, where I serve as commodore, which was the ultimate venue on a pictureperfect Marblehead evening.
I also want to thank my friend since our days at Marblehead High School, Dr. Rachel Freedman, an oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute who helped us navigate Kevin’s health care journey, Dr. Zosia Piotrowska from MGH Cancer Center for Lung and Pulmonary Cancer, and Dianne Legg, a 20-year lung cancer survivor and founder and president of LUNGSTRONG, an advocate for leading-edge lung cancer research. I’d also like to acknowledge the entire team at the Mass General Cancer Center who helped sustain our family during a very challenging time. Finally, I want to thank my children Callie, who designed the Cure By The Harbor logo and, as president of the Marblehead High School Fashion Club, enlisted a group of student volunteers who donated their time; and Cole who helped with organization, sponsor posters and set-up in advance of the function. Their love and support have been unwavering. Kevin would be very proud.
Sincerely, Alyssa Prince Locust Street
‘Marblehead
Boat Names –3rd Edition’
To the editor: A big thank you to the 800+ boat owners for sharing their unique and entertaining stories and 100+ color photos, which made “Marblehead Boat Names — 3rd Edition” possible! Also, a big thank you to the Marblehead community for your support of this fun project!
Shop local at Marblehead Mercantile, Shubie’s, Saltwater Bookstore, Mookies and F.L. Woods, where you can find “Marblehead Boat Names-3rd Edition.” It’s also available on Amazon for your convenience. For the latest book updates, please visit marbleheadboatnames.com
Thank you again, and I hope you all have a wonderful summer!
Sincerely, Susan (Cairns) Fischer Atlantic Ave.
‘Diversity is what made our country great. What happened?’
To the editor: It’s been a rough week in Marblehead Public Schools and within our community. As I have said before, all countries’ flags should be represented in our schools along with BLM, LGBTQ+ and Disabled Communities flags. As you have read and heard this week we not only have children feeling unwanted and disrespected, teachers are
Marblehead musings
BY JAMES (SEAMUS) HOURIHAN
Here are some timely musings and one left in the drawer since the spring.
School Committee, union negotiations —Far apart with limited time remaining
After six bargaining sessions which started in March, the School Committee and Marblehead Education Association have finally exchanged compensation proposals. The proposals are off by an order of magnitude. That’s a 10 times difference for you non-math majors. The MEA has requested wage increases of 40% for educators and 50% for other staff over three years. The SC has offered 4%. It is time for both sides to publicly lay their cards on the table relative to their view of wages in other school districts that have high student performance. Unfortunately, the next negotiation is not planned for nearly another month — July 16. That leaves only about 45 days before school starts again. Let’s hope that we don’t have a teacher walkout like Newton did last year.
School Committee — I wouldn’t trust them with my money
On April 25, the School Committee did a meet and greet with the recommended incoming director of student services, LisaMarie Ippolito. A very nice, congenial woman from Newburyport, LisaMarie replaces Paula Donelly who resigned from the position after the student restraint crisis at the Glover School.
Now LisaMarie applied for a directorlevel position. She was recommended by Thereas McGuinness, interim superintendent, for the director position. But during their chat the SC learned that LisaMarie actually held a superintendent level position in Newburyport. Thereupon the SC gave her a promotion to an assistant superintendent of student services on the spot. One doesn’t do that in the business world. The SC couldn’t
just say that they would consider an increase in title based upon performance after some time on the job. This appears like a desperate move to secure the good graces of one of several needed replacement hires. Irrespective of their low-ball positioning on teacher contract negotiations, can we really trust the SC to make our money go further?
Are teacher resignations next?
Over the course of this year we have seen principals, assistant principals, the athletic director and senior staff members resign. And replacement candidates have withdrawn their names from consideration. We were down eight senior administrators at one point.
Even before the end of the school year, rumors were starting that we might see a wave of teacher resignations. It’s hard to tell how big that wave might be. For some educators, even the result of contract negotiation won’t have an impact.
How do the schools replace teachers who leave? Or can they, given the turmoil in the district? How fast can they replace them? As residents of seaside Marblehead, you all know (or should know) the saying “a fish rots from the head.” I will let you interpolate the meaning in the context of our schools.
Needed repairs, landscaping
— In time for the Fourth?
With tourist season upon us, it’s too bad that the painting of our Old Town House and the repairs to the sidewalk and seawall at FortBeach weren’t completed before Memorial Day. I was hoping Gene Arnould’s plein air painters might have stepped up to help to paint the Town House. Well, that project is completed. And just last week the Fort Beach repairs were completed.I hope the pressure is on to finish the roadwork around Abbot Hall before the Fourth. Fort Sewall landscaping doesn’t look so great. Maybe they can get rid of all the weeds along the walkway and over the stonework to the inner fort. The
feeling the effects of what is going on in our school buildings and in our world. Our country is a melting pot of many cultures, religions, skin colors, history and much more.
Diversity is what made our country great. What happened? Everyone today is involved with pointing fingers.
First of all we need a DEI director not just a HR director. There is a dire need for one. Instead of only what is good for ourselves, let’s get to work with the mindset that everyone is welcomed, heard, seen and wanted in Marblehead. As in my past letters, children and adults need to know the consequences of antisemitic, racist and homophobic actions in town. We do not need to know names. Maybe we should schedule mandatory school events that parents/guardians have to attend at the beginning of the school year. Have representatives of the LGBTQ+, POC, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Catholic, etc. communities. Let’s have the students and adults come together and put this on. Let’s come together to be the solution not the cause of what is so damaging in our small town. Our children put on plays throughout the year, why not put something together to benefit us coming together to combat the division we see in print or hear on our televisions, radio, podcasts and in the streets of America.
By the time our children graduate from sixth grade they should know that words hurt as much as sticks and stones. The most important thing for them to know is that we are all human beings, we are all the same because we are all different.
Mary McCarriston Pinecliff Drive
grass needs a new development and maintenance strategy. It would only get trampled by the FoA reception anyways.
Recall provision - Lost opportunity Late on the final day of the Town Meeting the attendees were expecting to consider Article 50. This article proposed creating a recall provision for elected officials. The article was indefinitely postponed. Given the dysfunction in two of our elected boards, this was a lost opportunity to deal with problems sooner rather than later.
MBTA Community Act –Gerrymandering a way out
Why don’t we spin off a new township called “Head Out.” It would be created using a strip of land along the borders with Salem and Swampscott. This would remove Marblehead from the “adjacent community” designation and required compliance with the onerous, town character killing MBTA Community Act. How wide should this strip be? Enough so it isn’t viewed as a “sham.” The “no” voters at Town Meeting should provide guidance. This new township would contract services from Marblehead, Salem or Swampscott based upon the best price, as is done in some rural areas of the country. The seat of government would be the YMCA – “Yes MBTA Community Act.” It needs a mayor, though. The forceful, pragmatic John DiPiano would be an excellent candidate, but he lives too far away from the strip and is on the opposite side of the issue. I am still researching where some of our town leaders live who support the MBTA Community Act. Until another time.
James (Seamus) Hourihan was born in Marblehead and is a MHS graduate. For 35 years, he worked in finance, marketing and executive management roles at hightech companies. He has lived here full-time since 2009 and now serves on the Charter Committee.
James Green, 91
James Green died on June 19 at the Kaplan House Family Hospice in Danvers. He was 91 years old.
The first alternate in the marathon event for two consecutive U.S. Olympic teams (1960, 1964), having achieved many top-10 finishes in the Boston Marathon, including third place in 1960 in a personal best of 2:23:37, having won silver in the 1959 Pan American Games and competed internationally, including in the First International Marathon in Seoul, South Korea, in the Fukuoka Marathon in Japan, and in the 15-kilometer Mar del Plata in Argentina, among other races in the U.S. and abroad, Green was among the very last survivors of a bygone era of long-distance running pursued at an elite level at great personal sacrifice for pure love of the sport, without the least hope for monetary compensation.
During his peak years, he competed for the BAA under the formidable regime of his respected coach, the late Jock Semple.
Michael David Donahue, 64
Michael David Donahue, 64, celebrated chef, devoted gardener, and lover of music and animals, passed away on June 17, 2024, after a recent illness, with his loving wife, Wendy Cronkhite-Donahue, at his side. Born on May 1, 1960, in Salem, Michael’s life was a testament to his dedication, passion and the joy he brought to those around him.
In his youth, Michael owned and operated a successful landscaping business with his brother Tim, showcasing his early entrepreneurial spirit and
As the decades passed, he never stopped participating in road races, although in later years he began focusing on those under the marathon distance — that is, until the terrorist bombing at the 2013 Boston Marathon drove him in an act of personal resistance to resume marathonracing. He finished Boston in 2014, 2015 and 2017 (ages 81, 82 and 84, respectively), suffering what later was determined to have been a heart attack crossing the finish line of the 2017 race, the aftermath and treatment for which may well have contributed to his later decline.
He was the coach, mentor, and friend of countless runners, and the inspiration for many others.
James Frederick Green was born on Nov. 27, 1932, at Weymouth Hospital to Francis
love for nature. His devotion to nature and gardening remained a passion throughout his life, always finding peace and fulfillment in the outdoors.
Michael perfected his culinary skills in local restaurants, becoming a celebrated chef known for his award-winning chowder. He most recently
Martha A. Clark, 94
Martha A. Clark, 94, died June 17 at The Residence at Pearl Street, Reading, following a period of failing health. She was born in Quincy on April 28, 1930, to Charles and Clara Arsenault, and was the last surviving of six sisters.
Wilfred Green and Ethyl McCashin of Quincy, into a family that ultimately grew to include eight brothers and sisters.
His clam-digging as a youth provided not only memories that were relished in later years but an introduction to the joy of pushing oneself to one’s physical limits, something for which he never, not even through to his last days, lost the taste.
A man of sincere faith, he was in those early days an altar server at his church.
He attended Compton College in California, then the University of California, Berkeley, from which he received his B.A. in political science and where he was on the boxing and track teams. He would later go on to earn his M.A. in government from the University of Massachusetts- Amherst, where he met his beloved wife, Michele, and to obtain his Ph.D. in government and international relations from American University in Washington, D.C.
He joined the U.S. Army in 1953 and learned Russian at the Army Language School in Monterey, California, using his skills to serve as a voice intercept operator of Russianlanguage transmissions while
delighted patrons at the Three Cod Tavern and, prior to that, at Maddie’s Sail Loft. His culinary talents and warm personality made him a beloved figure in the community.
Affectionately known as the “Gentle Giant,” Michael was warm and easygoing with a great sense of humor. His kind heart and generous spirit touched many lives, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
A faithful Dead Head, Michael’s love for music was a significant part of his life. He found solace and inspiration in the songs of the Grateful Dead, sharing this passion with many friends and family members. He was also a lover of all animals, especially his cherished companions, Lila and Parsley. Michael is survived by his wife,
She graduated from Quincy High School in 1947 and Plymouth Teacher’s College in 1951. She taught in the Manchester, New Hampshire, school system for many years and was actively involved in the Elliot Hospital Associates. Clark resided in Manchester until 2023 and also spent many summers at Pleasant Lake in Deerfield, New Hampshire. She was an ardent reader and
stationed in Germany in 1956. (He also represented the Army as a member of its boxing team.) His study of the Russian language grew into a lifelong love for Russian language and culture, especially of 19th-century literature and of music by its classical composers. Green had a varied professional career, including as a professor at Holy Cross College in Worcester, and at UMass-Amherst, and as a public school teacher in Saugus, Beverly, Swampscott and Marblehead; he continued substitute-teaching well into his 80s. He also worked as a technical writer, including for Wang Computers in Lowell, and was for a time the city of Beverly’s recreation director. He was a coach throughout his life, whether volunteering his time or in paid roles. Perhaps most influential was his work in the late 1970s and early ’80s coaching the North Shore’s Coastal Track Club.
A skilled classical pianist and lover of literature who recited favorite poems from memory, he lived in a world of the highest ideals, and he eschewed fads, brands and celebrity culture. Green wrote and self-published two novels in the early 2000s.
Wendy Cronkhite-Donahue, and by his brother, David Mark Donahue, his wife, Sue Donahue, and nephews Patrick Donahue and Christopher Donahue; his brother Timothy George Donahue, his fiancé, Mary-Beth Cuzner, and step niece Gracie J. Cuzner; and Wendy’s sisters, Judy Cronkhite and her husband, Stefan Weyrauch, and Janice Cronkhite; and Aunt Elizabeth Dunn. He is preceded in death by his grandmother, Dorothy Cook; parents, George Holland Donahue and Carolyn Cook Donahue; brother Steven Michael Donahue; Aunts Helen Donahue, Virginia Donahue and Virginia Cook; sister-in-law Marcia Joan Cronkhite; and mother-in-law, the Contessa Joan Cronkhite.
enjoyed her book clubs.
Clark is survived by Stanley Clark, her spouse of 70 years who continues to reside in Reading, and three daughters: Jane Clark and spouse Jonathan Gertler of Weston, Marilyn Clarkson and spouse Randy Burnham of Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, and Jennifer Uhl and spouse Stephen Uhl of Marblehead. She also leaves seven grandchildren: Chessin
James — “Jim” or “Jimmy” to friends and family — is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Michele (neé Wyatt); children Meredith Dutton, Eric Green and Tara Green; daughterin-law Ridgely Fisk Green; grandchildren Emerson, Vivian and A.J.; his sisters, Patricia Racette, Donna Gounaris, Constance George and Rosemary Beau; and his brother Donald Green. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Louise Hunnel, and his brother Wilfred (Bill) Green.
Green could claim many notable accomplishments, even beyond those summarized here, but will undoubtedly be remembered most by those he leaves behind for his truly exceptional modesty and his willingness to see people as they wanted to see themselves — thereby helping them to embody the selves they had it in them to become.
A funeral Mass will be held at Marblehead’s Our Lady, Star of the Sea Catholic Church on June 26 at 11 a.m. Burial at Waterside Cemetery will take place the following day. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for James’ family may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome. com.
Michael’s legacy of kindness, creativity and love for life will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, June 26, 4-8 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell, 142 Elm St. A funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 27 at Our Lady Star of Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Ave., where friends and family will gather to celebrate Michael’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bridgton Veterinary Hospital, 213 Harrison Road, Bridgton, ME 04009 in Michael’s memory, honoring his love for animals and nature.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Michael’s family may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com.
Gertler (Hae Yeon Hong), Charles Gertler (Caroline Siebald), William Gertler, Brooke Clarkson, Sarah Clarkson, Thornton Uhl and Clark Uhl, as well as two greatgrandchildren: Jhie Gertler and Daye Gertler.
A private family gathering will be held in her remembrance followed by a celebration of life at a future date.
Summer meetings put town’s budget deficit in focus
BY WILL DOWD
The Finance Committee started the budgeting process last week, about six months earlier than usual. It met on June 17 to talk about Fiscal Year 2026 financial planning.
“We all know that there’s a lot of work ahead of us in this fiscal year,” said FinCom Chair Alec Goolsby. “We’d like to hold these meetings once a month, this summer, to check in on how things are going and provide advice effectively.”
Goolsby said the early start is largely driven by the need for a more comprehensive, long-term strategy for municipal finances.
One of the key focus areas for the committee will be personnel costs, which make up more than 80% of Marblehead’s budget. Goolsby stressed the importance of a thorough review of all funded positions and their associated salaries.
“I’d really like to see you focus on personnel, to really get a
good idea of all the positions funded currently in fiscal year 25 budget for each department,” Goolsby said. Budget challenges remain significant Marblehead continues to face significant budget challenges.
Town Meeting in May approved a $115 million budget, including $46.7 million for schools, for fiscal year 2025.
The town decided not to seek a Proposition 2 ½ tax override this year, opting instead to address a $4.2 million deficit through a combination of fee increases, new taxes, dipping into revolving funds and budget cuts.
“I need to meet with every department, and they need to justify to me what they need, what contractual services they have,” said Finance Director Aleesha Nunley Benjamin of her summertime plan. “I’ve given them no more than 1% growth rate based on our declining free cash revenue.”
The early start also comes on
the heels of recent measures to bolster Marblehead’s budget, including the introduction of a 0.75% local meals tax and a 6% rooms occupancy tax, which begin on July 1. Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer said these new revenue streams are expected to generate an estimated $400,000 annually, potentially reaching $1 million in future years.
“We’re trying to wean away from balancing the budget with free cash, and instead making an informed decision based on a real long-term financial plan that describes where the town is heading,” Benjamin said.
To ensure that the long-term financial plan is based on a thorough understanding of each department’s circumstances and requirements, the FinCom plans to work closely with department heads to gather detailed information about their needs, contractual obligations and potential areas for cost savings or revenue generation.
Collective bargaining presents unknowns
The FinCom faces several challenges in its efforts to develop an accurate and sustainable financial plan. Kezer noted the ongoing union contract negotiations, particularly with the teachers union, as a significant unknown factor in the budget planning process.
“Your biggest union cost is the unit eight teachers. And though we’ve agreed to negotiate during the summer, it’s very likely it’ll continue into the fall,” Kezer said.
“So that’s a big unknown.” Finance Committee member Timothy Shotmeyer highlighted the importance of presenting information in a way that is accessible and easy to understand.
“We don’t want to kill people with information. But we want to make it as simple as possible,” Shotmeyer said.
Resident survey
To ensure that the budget aligns with the needs and expectations
of the community, Select Board Chair Erin Noonan proposed conducting a resident survey to gauge public satisfaction with current services and identify areas for improvement.
“It’s been a while since we’ve done a resident survey, service survey, I think there was one done in 2019,” Noonan said. “It’s kind of hard to do that in a vacuum without feedback from the community.” Kezer said investments in information systems, including ClearGov, are designed to address workforce challenges and improve efficiency. He emphasized that by allowing software to handle routine processing tasks, employees can focus on more engaging, decision-making roles that directly contribute to improving the organization.
In response to the Current’s question during public comment about the likelihood of a general override being brought to the next Town Meeting, Kezer replied, “TBD, TBD (to be determined).”
BY LEIGH BLANDER
With just days to go before the start of 58th Marblehead Festival of Arts, hundreds of volunteers are busy setting up galleries, hanging art, organizing events and more.
“In our hectic lives, we often overlook connecting with our neighbors,” said Festival Director Jodi-Tatiana Charles.
“The Marblehead Festival of Arts provides a unique opportunity for our community to come together, build new relationships and celebrate our arts.”
She added, “By championing the arts, we create enduring memories and a collective pride in our town’s cultural achievements.”
The Marblehead Current is an official Festival sponsor and produced this eight-page special section with everything you’ll need to navigate the five-day event, including the full schedule (Pages 11-14). You can also visit MarbleheadCurrent.org for updates.
Starting with a toast
This Sunday, June 30, 5-7 p.m., is the Festival’s Champagne Reception at Fort Sewall where people can sample delicacies from local restaurants and vendors and sip champagne. A highlight of summer in town, the party features live music (with the band True North back this year) and a traditional handmade
hat contest. Tickets are $60 in advance or $70 at the event. Register at marbleheadfestival.
org.
Art exhibits, live music and events start Wednesday, July 3, and run through Sunday, July 7. They include favorites like Concerts @ Crocker, the Street Festival, Model Boat Regatta at Redd’s Pond, Sand Castle Contest and more. Also on Wednesday, 6-7:30
p.m., the Festival’s awards ceremony will be held outside Abbot Hall.
The Literary Festival kicks off Thursday, July 4, when the winners will be honored at 28 Mugford St. Writers will read from their works.
The Literary Festival continues July 5-7 at the newly renovated Abbot Public Library (Backup location 28 Mugford St.) with book talks, workshops
and interviews featuring 20 writers, including Julia Glass, Hank Philippe Ryan, Phyllis Karas and Jay Dolin.
“We’re thrilled to invite everyone to join us for the 2024 Literary Festival, where we celebrate the power of literature to inspire, educate and unite,” said Kimberly Grad, Literary Festival chair and Abbot Library director.
What’s new
The Festival features several additions this year, including an art vending machine. Meghan Perlow, who chairs the Festival’s art exhibits, purchased a vintage soda machine that she’s filling with smaller, less expensive pieces of art for sale. The machine will likely be set up at the Festival’s information booth near the Old Town House on Washington Street.
“It’s a great way to buy an original piece of art at an affordable price,” Perlow said. The works of art will range in price from $10 to $25, and include things like “tiny
paintings, print blocks and tiny sketchbooks,” Perlow added.
Kids ages 12-16 will want to try the new monster-making workshop led by the Big Nazo Lab. Big Nazo monsters were a big hit at last year’s Festival. On Sunday, June 30, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m., children will get the chance to create their own monster helmets and hats. Register at marbleheadfestival.org.
The Festival is adding a 10K race along with a 5K that started last year. The races step off at the post office on Saturday, July 6, at 7:45 a.m. Cost is $40-$50. Register at marbleheadfestival.org.
Also new this year, people can order specially-crafted picnic baskets crafted by local restaurants.
There will be two sessions of model boat making this year, on Thursday, July 4, at 10-11:30 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Each session has 60 slots available. At 3 p.m., kids will bring their boats to Redd’s Pond for a regatta. Model boat kits are $30. Register at marbleheadfestival.org.
Festival’s art exhibits set to impress
BY WILL DOWD
The Marblehead Festival of Arts, a cherished tradition since 1962, is gearing up for its 2024 celebration, with nearly 1,000 pieces submitted by local artists from Essex County. The heart of the Festival lies in its half-dozen art exhibits spread across iconic venues in Marblehead, each showcasing different mediums and themes.
“We’ve carefully curated the exhibits to ensure that each venue has something unique to offer,” Marblehead resident Meghan Perlow told the Current.
“Whether you’re interested in traditional painting, cuttingedge digital art, or thoughtprovoking sculpture, there’s something for everyone at this year’s Festival.”
Abbot Hall will feature painting, printmaking, and crafts exhibits, while the Old
FOR THe LOV e OF ART
Town House will be home to the photography exhibit.
St. Michael’s Church will showcase sculpture, mixed media and digital art exhibits, and the Unitarian Universalist Church will host the drawing, international and senior art exhibits. The youth & student exhibit, featuring over 200 pieces from local schools and individual submissions, will be housed at the Old North Church.
The King Hooper Mansion will be the venue for the Painting the Town exhibit, highlighting Marblehead’s iconic landscapes and landmarks.
“Attendees will see their favorite Marblehead spots highlighted by our incredible group of artists,” Perlow said, emphasizing the Festival’s commitment to celebrating the town’s unique character and charm.
The selection and judging
process is rigorous, with two distinct dates for artists: the submission deadline and the art drop-off date. Judges, experienced in their respective mediums, evaluate all pieces in person to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment.
“It really starts as a slow build, careful planning and a layout of the schedule,” Perlow said.
“Now that we’re in the middle of art drop off, judging, and exhibit planning — it becomes more of a full-time job. Seeing all the art come in makes all the hard work worth it. I love how excited our local artists are to share their pieces with the community.”
The Festival’s commitment to local talent is evident in the submission process, which is limited to artists within Essex County. This focus on regional artists fosters a strong sense of community and pride in the area’s creative talents.
“It really shows the incredible sense of community in Marblehead,” Perlow added.
“This is my first year being so closely involved with the Festival, and the passion and dedication I’ve seen from fellow volunteers — many who have been doing this for over 40 years — is inspiring.”
Organizing the exhibits is not without its challenges, however.
“The hardest challenge is saying ‘no’ to last-minute art submissions,” Perlow said. “But seeing volunteers encourage new and less-confident artists is truly wonderful.”
For those interested in purchasing artwork, the Festival provides an online portal, marbleheadfestival.org/artistexhibits, accessible during the event.
“While it’s exciting to win an award, it’s just as exciting for our artists to know someone
loved their piece so much they had to take it home,” Perlow shares.
In addition to the exhibits, the Festival will also feature a range of interactive activities and demonstrations, allowing attendees to engage with the artists and learn more about their creative processes.
“By offering workshops, demonstrations, and artist talks, we hope to inspire and educate the community about the incredible talent we have right here in Marblehead,” Perlow said.
For people looking to contribute to this community event, volunteer opportunities are available at marbleheadfestival.org/ volunteer.
“It’s a super easy way to get involved with the Festival and learn more about it,” Perlow said.
Volunteers fuel magic behind MoFA
BY LIA GORBACH
As yet another Fourth of July approaches, a legion of Marblehead Festival of Arts volunteers has spent months preparing for the big event.
Since 1962, the Festival has been supported by about 18,300 volunteers, according to the Festival website. These 18,300 dedicate time and energy that powers the ever-growing event.
“It takes a large number of volunteers to make this work, it’s not just the Festival, but all the parts that have to be put together before the festival even starts,” said Peggy Farrell, who is in charge of the Painting the Town event.
Many volunteers are returning helpers. Barbara Miller, who has been volunteering at the St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Lobster Luncheon for 38 years, enjoys the festive experience.
“The comradery is great among all of the staff, and so is the atmosphere with all the visitors coming through,” Miller said.
Though the mayhem of the Festival behind-the-scenes is well hidden from visitors, a glimpse of the chaos puts into perspective how much planning goes into it.
On a recent sunny afternoon, Lisa Ginivisan opened her door to the Current. Ginivisan is co-chair of the Children’s Festival, an event that will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jeremiah Lee Mansion Gardens on July 6. Ginivisan organizes the event alongside her daughter, Eliza, who has been helping out since she was 8 years old.
Going straight to her art room, Lisa quickly pulled out a
notebook, which she uses to jot down ideas for the Children’s Festival. The notes span back to 2014, when Ginivisan took over the Children’s Festival.
With Ginivisan’s tight budget and large crowd — she’s expecting 400 kids this year — each activity’s budget totals about $1 in materials. Materials sourced from the Magic Hat and upcycled from previous year’s leftovers fuel Ginivisan’s imagination.
“You wouldn’t believe the amount of trial and error that goes into planning children’s projects before we finally roll out the right ones,” she said.
Every year, the Children’s Festival has a theme, which the activities are planned around.
“A theme gives the Festival character and personality,” Ginivisan expressed.
This year’s theme is “Capturing the light.” Lanterns, suncatchers, cloth wreaths and stained glass art are some of the 10 activities planned for the Festival.
“We’re moving out of this post-pandemic anxiety into this renaissance of living. It’s all about resilience.”
Another aspect of the planning process is coordinating volunteers to work on the day of the event.
Eliza Ginivisan, a recent Marblehead High School graduate, organizes the roughly 40 volunteers. This group consists of mostly MHS
students, their friends and siblings. Some students have come back from college as returning volunteers, as it’s become a tradition for many.
“Every one of my friends and family has volunteered their time in some capacity,” Eliza told the Current.
The day before the Children’s Festival, the Ginivisan’s entire dining room space will be filled with boxes, as a big part of the preparation is unpackaging all of the materials. Doing this in advance minimizes the trash created at the event and allows the volunteers to use their time meaningfully.
The interactions between volunteers is another special part of the Festival. The face painting station, where everyone seems to flock, is a hub for socializing.
“The kids love it. The interaction with the painters and other kids feels like the most magical part of the day,” Lisa Ginivisan said. “Half of our volunteers end up over there. Kids could have a blue blob on their face and be simply ecstatic about it.”
Aside from the face paint, Ginivisan is most excited about the lantern activity. She has been collecting one-liter plastic bottles for months, with contributions from her coworkers at Witchcraft Heights Elementary School, where she is a pediatric occupational therapist. She also holds a master’s in education in creative arts in learning, which prompted her to contribute her talents to the festival.
“Eliza says I remind her of Pollyanna,” Ginivisan said.
The lanterns are inspired by
an arts festival she attended in Asheville, North Carolina, while touring colleges with Eliza. Ginivisan has planned a parade of light to take place after the Children’s Festival, where children and their parents will walk through Crocker Park with their glowing lanterns, illuminating the music festival on July 6 at 8 p.m.
“It’s a way to connect the visual arts with the live music,” Ginivisan said.
To coordinate the parade, Ginivisan talked with Brian Wheeler, who is in charge of the music at Crocker. He even acquired a police escort for the parade.
Also at the Children’s Festival will be North Shore Glass School with a glass cutting demonstration, Music Together and MiraMar Print Lab.
When the Festival is over, Ginivisan said she’s going to sleep in for 12 hours the next day.
“I compare it to planning a wedding: you plan every little detail out, then let go and hope people enjoy it,” she said.
While Ginivisan loves the Children’s Festival, she’s looking for a “protege” to take over her role in the near future.
“I could talk myself into doing this forever,” Ginivisan expressed. “But it’s time for a new leading energy to enter the picture.”
The Marblehead Current is the media sponsor for the Festival of Arts. Check out full coverage at MarbeheadCurrent. org. Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the University of Maryland.
Free, live music at Concerts @ Crocker
BY LEIGH BLANDER
One of the highlights of the Arts Festival is the Concerts @ Crocker series, featuring live music over several days.
“We have 16 acts over four nights and three days,” said Brian Wheeler, the Festival’s performing arts chair. “There are over 75 different performers with all different styles of music. That’s one of the tenets of our stewardship. We try to think about all different styles of music, always something a little different.”
Asked about some of his favorite musicians who have
performed over the years, Wheeler said, “I couldn’t even…. We’ve had some remarkable musicians over the years.”
A musician himself, Wheeler has been in charge of Concerts @ Crocker since the 1970s. It’s his favorite time of year. He encourages everyone to take advantage of the free concerts and breath-taking venues.
“Bring your blanket, bring your picnic basket. Carve out your spot and come and enjoy,” he said.
Wheeler started an intern program that attracts young people from across the country and beyond.
“Some of them don’t know what a Marblehead is,” Wheeler said. “They come to this beautiful place and become part of the team.”
Wheeler, his interns and volunteers set up the stage at Crocker starting on July 2.
“We literally build our concert, sound and lights stage from the grass up,” he said.
Here’s a look at the Concerts at Crocker lineup.
Wednesday, July 3
6 p.m. Jazz with the Debby Larkin/Jeff Stout Quintet
» 8 p.m. Latin dance and reggae with Combo Sabros Thursday, July 4
11:30 a.m.-noon Classic rockers Squall House » 12:15 p.m.-1 p.m. Marblehead School of Music
» 2 p.m. Indie alt rock band River Sang Wild 6 p.m. Pop funk with The Far Out 8 p.m. 10-piece Big Ol’ Dirty Bucket band with R&B, funk and soul
This evening will also feature the traditional singing of the national anthem (by ‘Header Christina Easthope), along with the harbor illumination and fireworks.
Friday, July 5 » Noon Obscure Notation with jazz/fusion
2 p.m. The Gus Percy Band with R&B
CURRENT PHOTO / LIA GORBACH
Lisa Ginivisan holds up an example of the cloth wreath project. Kids will have 10 activities to choose from at the Children’s Festival.
June
»
»
5-8
» Performing Arts - Concerts @ Crocker Park
1 p.m.
» Literary Festival - 28 Mugford St. (See specific events on Page A14) 3-4 p.m.
» Model Boat RegattaRedd’s Pond, intersection of Norman and Pond streets
Now until July 7, 9 p.m. Festival of Cod and Whales: Enjoy various merchant s around town until July 4. Afterward, all displays will come together at Abbot Hall for viewing. The Cod and Whales Auction is open
for bidding online until July 7, 9 p.m. Friday, July 5 June 30-July 7
» Hidden Orbs Search, along all Festival routes 9-9:45 a.m.
FORM 01945 Festival Fitness - Jeremiah Lee Mansion upper lawn
10 a.m.-6 p.m.
» Satellite parking and Festival trolley loop –Marblehead High School to Festival exhibits and activities
10 a.m.-5 p.m.
» Exhibits at six beautiful and historical venues - Abbot Hall, The Old Town House, St. Michael’s Church, Old North Church, Unitarian Universalist Church of Marblehead, and King Hooper Mansion (MAA) 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
» Logo store – Abbot
Festival routes
» 10:00am – 4:00pm
» Satellite parking and Festival
trolley loop – Marblehead High School to Festival
Exhibits and Activities
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Exhibits at six historical venues - Abbot Hall, The Old Town House, St. Michael’s Church, Old North Church, Unitarian Universalist Church of Marblehead, and King Hooper Mansion (MAA)
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
» Chamber Music – Abbot Hall
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
» Literary Festival - Abbot Public Library (Backup location 28 Mugford St.) See specific events at right.
10 a.m.-3 p.m.
» Logo Store – Abbot Hall and Old Town House
Now through July 7, 9 p.m. Festival of Cod and Whales: Enjoy various merchant s around town until July 4. Afterward, all displays will come together at Abbot Hall for viewing. The Cod and Whales Auction is open for bidding online until July 7, 9 p.m.
Information booths
» Information booths are staffed by Marblehead residents who are familiar with the Festival and the Marblehead community. Our booths are located at Abbot Hall and across from the Old Town House.
» Please stop by. Our volunteers are always happy to answer your questions about the Festival and other aspects of Marblehead. Grab a program book during the festival, which will guide you to much more information. We ask for a $5 donation.
Festival trolley & satellite parking
Free satellite parking will be available in the Marblehead High School parking lot at 2 Humphrey St.
» A free Festival trolley will oper ate between MHS and exhibit sites. Here is the schedule:
Sunday, June 30, no trolleys Wednesday, July 3, no trolleys
Walking to your destination
Marblehead High School
parking to Atlantic Street shopping: 0.8 miles – 15
minutes
» Marblehead High School Park
ing to Abbot Hall: 1.2 miles –24 minutes
Marblehead High School parking to Abbot Hall and Washington Street: 1.2 miles – 24 minutes
» Marblehead High School
parking to Crocker Park: 1.5 miles – 34 minutes
Washington Street to Crocker Park: 0.2 miles –5 minutes
WRITeRS’ WORLD
Literary festival, a wordsmith wonderland
BY WILL DOWD
The Marblehead Festival of Arts Literary Festival promises an eclectic lineup of events and opportunities for literature enthusiasts of all ages. The festivities, organized by Abbot Public Library Executive Director Kim Grad and a team of volunteers, kick off on the Fourth of July and continue through July 7, featuring a diverse array of authors, workshops and interactive sessions.
“I had worked with the Literary Festival last year, but joined late in the process and I wanted to see the project through from start to finish this year,” Grad told the Current. “I also saw this as a great opportunity to introduce the community to the newly renovated Abbot Public Library.”
The festival begins with a special celebration honoring the winners of the Literary Contest at 28 Mugford St. at 1 p.m. Attendees can expect readings from winning works across adult and student categories in fiction, nonfiction and poetry.
From July 5 to 7, the Abbot Public Library, 235 Pleasant St. will host an array of literary talent. (Backup location 28 Mugford St.)
“Our first priority was to engage with local authors,” Grad explained. Notable exceptions include New York Times bestselling author and Marblehead resident Hank Phillippi Ryan, winner of five Agatha Awards, and Kristy Woodson Harvey, author of Southern fiction. They were introduced through Grad’s husband, literary agent Doug Grad.
Throughout the festival, authors will share their works and personal journeys through book talks, readings, workshops, conversations, interviews, demonstrations, storytime and crafts. Highlights include poets Enzo Surin, an award-winning, Haitian-born poet, author and social advocate, and January O’Neil, an acclaimed author of several poetry collections.
Author talks and conversations feature National Book Award winner Julia Glass and New York Times bestselling historian and novelist Katherine Howe — both Marblehead residents — and moderated by journalism veteran Susan Walker. Picture book author and Marblehead resident Cynthia Platt will lead a storytime.
Aspiring writers can hone their craft through workshop experiences. Young adult author Laurie Stolarz, known for her bestselling “Blue is for Nightmares” series, will discuss how to begin a novel. Creative writing professor and poet Kevin Carey will talk about crafting first-person narratives in middle-grade fiction. Picture book author and Khan Academy contributor Cynthia Platt will lead an interactive read-aloud and craft session.
David Roper, a best-selling author from Marblehead, will share his publishing journey and expertise. Marblehead resident Phyllis Karas, co-author of “Brutal: The Untold Story of My Life Inside Whitey Bulger’s Irish Mob,” will discuss collaboration with literary agent Doug Grad. Poet, professor and former Massachusetts Poetry Festival director and Marblehead resident Claire Keyes will lead interviews on nonfiction writing trends and memoirs.
Grad highlighted the festival’s diversity across topics, genres and participants.
“A diverse range of voices and perspectives offers the opportunity to provide ‘mirrors, windows and sliding glass doors’ for readers, a concept attributed to children’s literature researcher Rudine Sims Bishop,” she said. “Books are mirrors when readers see their own lives reflected in the pages. Books are windows when they allow readers a view of lives and stories that are different from their own. Books become sliding glass doors when readers feel transported into the world of the story and when they feel empathy for the characters.”
While most featured authors have ties to Marblehead or the
North Shore, the festival will welcome writers from across the country. Acclaimed young adult and adult author Carolyn Mackler, known for her awardwinning novels like “The Earth, My Butt and Other Big Round Things,” will discuss the art of intergenerational storytelling.
“Carolyn adeptly writes for a wide range of readers,” said Grad. “I recently read ‘The Wife App’ and was instantly charmed.”
Picture book illustrator E.B. Goodale will lead a workshop on the creative process. New York Times bestselling author and Marblehead resident Eric Jay Dolin will share a gripping tale of shipwreck and survival featured in his narrative nonfiction book “Rebels at Sea.”
Organizing the festival presented challenges, but Grad expressed gratitude for the smooth online submission process for the literary contest, made possible by Roj Cowles and the technical support team. She also thanked committee members for their assistance in managing contest entries and coordinating with authors. Judges for the 2024 Marblehead Festival of Arts Literary Contest — which Grad said received approximately 125 entries —include: Bianca Hezekiah, teen librarian at Abbot Public Library, who judged all youth entries.
» Rachael Meneades, head of technical services at Abbot Public Library, who judged all adult fiction entries.
Regina Robbins Flynn, who judged all adult nonfiction entries.
» Jennifer Martelli, who judged all adult poetry entries.
LITERARY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE
Friday, July 5
» 10:30 a.m. –Alexander R. Brash: An Autobiographical Duet (author talk)
11 a.m. –Laurie Stolarz: Square One: Beginning a New Novel or Fictional Story (workshop)
» 1 p.m. –Enzo Surin and January O’Neil: A Poetry Reading
2:30 p.m. –Judith Nies interviewed by Claire Keyes: New Trends in Nonfiction Writing and Publishing » 4 p.m. –David Roper: Thinking of Writing a Book? So, What’s Your Story? (author talk)
Saturday, July 6 » 10:30 a.m. –E.B. Goodale: The Art of Picture Book Illustration: Printmaking in Action 11:30 a.m. - Writers and Agents: A Conversation with Phyllis Karas & Doug Grad » 1 p.m. –Carolyn Mackler: Writing Across Ages (author talk)
2:30 p.m. –Eric Jay Dolin: “Left For Dead” (author talk)
3:30 p.m. –Kevin Carey: Working the First Person Illusion in Middle Grade Fiction and Beyond (workshop) » 4 p.m. –Dian Seidel interviewed by Claire Keyes: Retirement? A Memoir of Reinvention and Adventure Sunday, July 7 » 10:30 a.m. –Hank Phillippi Ryan & Kristy Woodson Harvey: A Fireside Chat (author talk)
11:30 a.m. –Cynthia Platt: Growing Stories. Growing Your Voice. (storytime, craft) » 1 p.m. –Julia Glass & Katherine Howe with Susan Walker (author talk)
“The Literary Festival relies heavily on volunteers, and I’m especially grateful for Literary Committee members and Marblehead residents Joanne McElhenney, Claire Keyes and Kate Anslinger, who came together to help me make the arrangements for the festival,” Grad said.
She added, “I hope that attendees find inspiration through attending the author talks, workshops, and interviews, and that they discover some new favorite books in the process.”
To learn more, visit: marbleheadfestival.org/ literary-events.
CURRENT ILLUSTRATION / WILL DOWD / COURTESY PHOTOS
A collage depicting the 20 authors, speakers and participants in the 2024 Marblehead Festival of Arts Literary Festival.
BY LIA GORBACH
Out of the 64 entries in the Marblehead Festival of the Arts’ 2024 Cod & Whale Auction, five are made by hands with the same genes.
When you drive past the Henlotter family’s home, it’s clear that creativity is brewing inside. A developing tiny home sits in the driveway surrounded by ladders and buckets of paint. An array of buoys welcomes visitors to the front door dressed with a giant ‘H.’ An art room lies in the basement.
Three budding artists, a mother and her two young adult sons, live inside.
Tyler, Austin and Heather Henlotter were each asked by the MFoA in the spring to craft a cod for the sixth annual auction. Tyler, 20, and Austin, 19, are the youngest artists to be
BY KRIS OLSON
asked to participate.
The MFoA invites artists from around Essex County to create a work of art from a blank wooden cod or whale, or they can opt to freestyle the piece’s medium. After receiving their blank pieces, artists have around six weeks to create before their works are displayed at Abbot Hall, which happened May 31. Then they’re sent to retailers around town and auctioned off.
“We started the cods in the same room, but when I looked up we all had totally different ideas. It was funny,” Heather, 61, said.
Tyler sought inspiration from the wonders of the seashore: shells. A once plain piece of wood is now adorned with pearls, bay scallop and cerith shells that he has collected over the years. He calls the piece “Luna,” named after
The second annual road race being held as part of the Marblehead Festival of Arts figures to be twice as much fun as the first — at least for runners who like a challenge.
New this year, there will be a 10K race that will take runners from the starting line near the post office on Smith Street down over the causeway for a loop around the Neck. Both the 5K race and 10K race will have a new finish line at Marblehead
his girlfriend.
Austin took a different approach to fill his blank cod, named “Infinity.”
Inspired by the ouroboros symbol depicting a serpent or dragon eating its tail, Austin’s piece represents a tango between order and chaos.
The Henlotter brothers’ passion for art isn’t surprising. Tyler and Austin draw inspiration from their mom, Heather.
“I was enamored by her creativity in my
youth and it has become a cornerstone of my creations,” Tyler said.
Heather has lived in town 30 years and enjoys creating art in many mediums. She loves experimenting with sculpture, woodwork, painting and jewelrymaking in her free time. Outside of her art, she is a naval architect.
“Golden Girl” is her second cod entry in the Cod & Whale auction. She decided to craft her cod
seconds faster than Nate Assa.
High School.
Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each age division (0-13, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 and 80+), and the top three teams will also receive awards.
Everyone who crosses the finish line will receive a custom commemorative finisher’s medal.
In last year’s inaugural race, the top male finisher was Scott Snyder of Marblehead, who finished the 5K in 17:15, 20
of race.
The top four of the men’s race also featured runners from South Burlington, Vermont, and Decatur, Georgia.
The top female finisher was Kylynn McKinley of Marblehead, with a time of 18:52. Rounding out the top four were Ashley Sanderson, Kristin Gendron and Larissa Bifano, all of Marblehead.
Registration fees, which benefit arts scholarships in the community, are as follows:
» 5K: $40 in advance, $45 day
out of clay and cover it in swirling clay seaweed. The piece took her three weeks.
“I was kind of trying to do a modern take on the sea. It’s very simplistic, like the movement of seaweed,” Heather said.
Also up for auction under Heather’s name is a whale titled “Beneath the Surface.” The piece encourages spectators to dig deep and unearth the hidden beauties around us.
Heather’s sister-in-law, Kim Leventhal, also has a piece in the auction. It’s titled “Forever MHD.”
“We’ve always liked to do art together,” Heather said. “It just brings the family together in a special way.”
Decorated codfish and whales will be up for bid in an online fundraising auction until July 7. All proceeds from the Festival
» 10K: $45 in advance, $50 day of race. Registration is free for runners under the age of 10.
Early pickup of race bibs will be available on Friday, July 5, 4-6 p.m. at the Work Loft, 1 Spring St. On the day of the race, the schedule will be as follows: 7 a.m., registration closes. 7:20 a.m., pre-run/yoga warm-up.
» 7:30 a.m., 10K race line-up.
of Cod and Whale auction will support future MFoA programs and scholarships.
For a glimpse of these pieces, check out some local spots:
“Luna” - Sweetwater & Co. at 33 Atlantic Ave.
“Infinity” - Trove at 96
Washington St.
“Golden Girl” - Organic Nail and Spa at 40D Atlantic Ave.
“Beneath the Surface”Tucker Architecture at 59 Atlantic Ave.
“Forever MHD” - Mud Puddle Toys at 1 Pleasant St.
The Marblehead Current is the media sponsor for the Festival of Arts. Check out full coverage at MarbeheadCurrent.org.
Marblehead resident Lia Gorbach is the Current’s college summer intern. She is pursuing a journalism and business degree from the University of Maryland.
» 7:45 a.m., 10K start, 5K race line-up.
» 8 a.m., 5K start 9:15 a.m., top finisher awards presented. To register or for more information, see marbleheadfestival. org/5-10k-road-race.
Tyler and Austin Henlotter pose in front of their mother, Heather’s, whale displayed at the May 31 Cod & Whale “First Look” Party at Abbot Hall.
GOInG THe DISTA nCe
