Michael Robert Farewell has been placed on leave after admitting to Tasing a 21-year-old man after a motor vehicle crash and arrest on Clifton Avenue June 2, according to a police report obtained by the Current at Lynn District Court. Farewell, who has served on the Marblehead force for one year, is accused of violating department policies involving Tasers, falsifying records, untruthfulness and a lack of cooperating with investigations.
Chief Dennis King placed Farewell on five days of unpaid leave on Aug. 2, but that is the stiffest punishment he can dole out. It is now up to the Select Board to decide Farewell’s fate after Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer leads a disciplinary hearing. Farewell will be on paid leave during that process.
The 21-year-old driver spoke to the Current on Monday.
“I think it’s silly that he Tased me in the back. It shows incompetence,” the driver said about Farewell. “I probably deserved much more than that,
so I don’t feel bad for myself.”
Internal affairs investigation
King requested action on Farewell’s case after an internal affairs investigation, conducted by Sgt. Sean Brady, allegedly determined Farewell broke several department rules when he made the June 2 arrest.
On that day at 2:49 a.m., Farewell and other officers responded to a motor vehicle crash into a house on Clifton Avenue. According to police reports, the 21-year-old driver tried to flee the scene on foot.
Farewell pursued the suspect, who was shirtless and being chased by the owner of the home, who was wielding a golf club.
Farewell said that during the pursuit he observed scratch marks on the suspect’s body and a torn shirt, leading him to believe that a physical altercation had taken place between the suspect and the homeowner.
“To prevent (the driver) from running into (homeowner) and making contact with him which I believed would have caused (the driver) to become
seriously injured and another physical altercation to take place between both (the driver) and (homeowner), I pulled my TASER from my duty belt and activated it,” wrote Farewell.
BY BENJI BOYD
With just a few weeks of summer left before school starts, kids in Marblehead are making the most of the wide variety of camps here in town. Whether they offer sailing, swimming, sports, STEM or art, local camps have been packed since the end of June.
On one hot and humid day last week, the Current asked three JCC KinderCampers — Abi, May and Dempsey — what they’ve enjoyed the most so far this summer.
The J’s outdoor pool and splash pad were all-around favorites.
“I like sports,” added Maya. “Because they’re silly.”
Abi prefers art. She also likes science, where campers create concoctions like invisible ink, kinetic sand and fireworks in a jar.
KinderCamp Director Heather Greenberg calls the outdoor pool area where the younger campers stay “the happiest place on earth.”
With kids coming back summer after summer, Greenberg says she loves “seeing all these kids from when they’re younger grow throughout the years.”
The JCC offers Camp Simchah for older kids, which includes a Travel Camp.
BY WILL DOWD
The Board of Assessors voted unanimously on July 31 to remove Assistant Assessor Karen D. Bertolino from her position, citing significant errors in the town’s 2024 property valuations. However, the way the board went about the firing process drew sharp criticism from Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer, who said that due to quick action by officials and staff after the board’s vote the town was “able to avoid serious fines for violation of labor law requirements.” Board members maintain
their actions were necessary to restore accountability, address taxpayer concerns and rebuild the integrity of the assessors’ database. Still, Kezer emphasized the need for proper procedures.
“Independently elected boards cannot ignore the employment laws and policies or ignore the guidance of our professional staff and legal counsel and think they have solved their problems,” Kezer said in a sternly worded email criticizing the board’s termination process.
Bertolino’s firing came after months of paid administrative leave that cost Marblehead taxpayers $35,493.98 since late
March. The board also voted to begin the search for her replacement.
Kezer said the board failed to follow proper procedures outlined by labor counsel, Human Resources Director Tom Howard and himself.
“There should have been proper notice given to Karen Bertolino and she should have been given her right to defend herself and have her counsel present,” said Kezer. “No notice was provided.” He added that the board failed to coordinate with the Human
Campers play parachute games with counselors at Camp Devereux.
Stone & Compass, founder face lawsuits, investigations
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Troubled travel group Stone & Compass and its founder Robert Goodwin of Marblehead are named in seven lawsuits by financial companies who say Goodwin owes them a total of $863,118. Judgments have already been entered against Goodwin and his company in five of the cases, totaling more than $500,000.
Suits against Goodwin and Stone & Compass have been filed in New York state by the following: Square Funding, Rocket Capital NY, RBLX Funding, Pearl Alpha Funding, Cashium Capital, Swift Funding and Core Funding Source.
Goodwin and Stone & Compass are alleged to have breached their contracts with the plaintiffs. In one case, Square Funding says it purchased 10.50% of Stone & Compass’ receivables for $246,750 and that Goodwin agreed to set up a bank account from which Square Funding could make withdrawals until the money was paid back. Square Funding claims that after depositing $49,350, Goodwin stopped adding money.
“There remains a balance due and owing to the Plaintiff on the agreement in the amount of $202,400.00 plus interests, costs, disbursements and attorney’s fees,” according to the suit.
Investigations
This spring, Stone & Compass canceled trips for hundreds of students and adults around the country. Goodwin said the cancellations were necessary after Stone & Compass was defrauded out of nearly $900,000 by two New York financial institutions.
One of the canceled trips was for students at Seabreeze High School in Daytona Beach, Florida. They had booked and paid for a trip to Greece and Italy for this summer. Goodwin insists he has reimbursed those students and families, but Seabreeze teacher Chris Weinrich, who organized the trip, said they “haven’t seen one red cent” in refunds.
“Furthermore, neither [Goodwin] nor anyone at Stone & Compass has contacted me in the last several months,” Weinrich told the Current. “If he were going to refund us our money, you would think that he would contact the leader of the group to explain what had happened and what was going to happen. That never happened.”
Some Seabreeze families were able to get vouchers from their airlines, according to Weinrich. Goodwin said that Stone &
Compass has “paid back at least 90% of clients. It’s a huge success. Again I could have just gone to bankruptcy and saved a ton of personal pain but simply wanted to do right by others.”
Florida’s Volusia County Sheriff’s Department is investigating Stone & Compass, Detective Bill Weaver confirmed.
“I had several conversations with Robert Goodwin in June and asked him to send documentation to substantiate his claims of massive fraud. He has not provided us any documentation,” Weaver said.
The Florida Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division has launched an “active investigation regarding Stone & Compass” after receiving 19 complaints, according to Chase Sizemore, press secretary for the Florida Attorney General’s Office.
Also in Florida, Flagler College in St. Augustine is suing Goodwin and Stone & Compass for breach of contract, accusing it of canceling trips for 116 students.
“To date, Stone & Compass has not refunded any money to the college or our students,” said Beth Sweeny, director of Flagler’s external and government relations.
“Flagler College chose to reimburse our impacted students for all their expenses,” Sweeny added. “Including the contracted fees we paid Stone & Compass, the college is out about $1 million.”
Flagler is demanding a jury trial.
When asked about the Flagler suit, Goodwin replied, “The suit filed by Flagler I am countering as
that particular university ended up running most of their trips. Thus I responded directly to the university with why we feel they have actually wronged us.”
California State University Long Beach is “assessing its legal options” after “Stone & Compass did not meet its contractual obligations and promises to deliver four study abroad programs, which impacted approximately 64 students as well as members of our faculty,” according to CSU spokesman Jim Milbury.
“The financial impact to CSULB is estimated to be over $290,000,” Milbury said.
In emails to the Current, Goodwin said he hasn’t responded to the New York lawsuits and judgments because, “I was waiting to see how things play out with our stolen funds.”
Goodwin said he is cooperating with the New York Attorney General to track down the money stolen from him.
“AG and I had a great conversation last week and it continues to develop AND I’ve been told NOT to discuss a single thing about it and this request came directly from them,” Goodwin wrote.
When asked if it was investigating Goodwin’s claims or whether there were complaints against Stone & Compass, a spokesperson for the New York AG’s office said, “This matter is still under review.”
The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office has received six complaints regarding Stone & Compass, according to a spokesperson.
Marbleheader shares story
In Marblehead, a local golfer and member of the Tedesco Country Club says he had to go through American Express to get his money back after booking a trip to Ireland with seven friends through Stone & Compass. One of his friends — another Tedesco member — is still trying to get a refund.
“We were into Rob for $22,000,” said the man, who asked not to be identified. “Then he ghosted me at the end of April.”
The man says he heard from Goodwin’s associate Amon Sharma on May 14.
“He indicated to me that everything had been booked,” he said. “I asked for a confirmation and never received it.”
When the man went to confirm the reservations himself, he found nothing had been booked. He canceled the booking with Stone & Compass.
“It was a bad experience for us,” the man continued. “‘Deceptive’ is probably the least offensive term you could use.”
New headquarters
In May, Goodwin told the Current he would be moving Stone & Compass to Bulgaria, where it has a retreat center. He also said the company would stop operations until 2025.
On July 23, however, Sharma sent an email to some former Stone & Compass participants in Marblehead announcing that the company had merged with another travel group.
“It’s safe to say that after having put a lot of effort and hard work into this we have risen from the ashes,” Sharmon wrote. “It took a lot of doing but we are now fully functional again and accepting tours. The new entity is called N & N Hospitality and Tours. We are headquartered in Scotland and Bulgaria and have had a lot of success filling up our 2025 calendar.”
The website for N & N Hospitality and Tours is under construction.
Goodwin did not comment on the partnership, but did write, “To date we have many wonderful things happening with S and C like working with N and N tours and lots of other great things ALL while still not getting a dime back yet in our stolen funds.”
Goodwin also said he is currently in Bulgaria with a group of Marblehead students. He sent a picture of people sitting by a pool.
“They are with me having an incredible time with them and engaging in life changing moments!” he wrote.
BY WILL DOWD
A half-dozen residents have formed a new coalition to advocate for increased housing diversity in Marblehead. The Marblehead Housing Coalition, launched on July 25, aims to promote housing choice, share fact-based information and advocate for the passage of the proposed rezoning plan under the MBTA Communities Act.
A 33-vote margin decided the fate of a zoning proposal at May’s Town Meeting. Voters rejected the plan, designed to meet state multifamily housing mandates. The town now faces a Dec. 31 deadline to adopt the statute. Non-compliance could result in penalties handed down and lawsuits filed against Marblehead by the state.
“We think this is good for Marblehead,” resident Nick
“It’s good to have the other side organized, to offset the ‘nos’ and to get some true information out there,” Fox said, believing the coalition “can be very helpful, if and when, we go back to town meeting.”
The coalition supports increased housing options for current and prospective residents who face challenges such as high living costs and a lack of diverse housing stock. They argue that additional housing choices will create a more thriving, sustainable and inclusive community.
Ward pointed to real-world impacts of Marblehead’s limited housing options, citing multiple examples of residents struggling to remain in town or being forced to leave. Most notably, Louis Meyi recently resigned
Ward, a founding member of the coalition, told the Current. The coalition has garnered
support from some local officials, including Select Board member Dan Fox.
COURTESY PHOTO
Stone & Compass founder Rob Goodwin on a trip to Greece.
Marblehead residents have launched a new coalition, with its own website, to bring more diverse and affordable housing to town.
Camps
From P. A1
There’s also an inclusion program that welcomes kids who might not ordinarily be able to participate in camp activities due to anything from autism to cerebral palsy. It provides those campers with a specialized support person to help them join in with their peers.
‘Belonging, achievement, accomplishment’
For generations now, the YMCA has run Children’s Island Day Camp just outside Marblehead Harbor. Campers board the Hannah Glover each morning and afternoon to make the trip. For those
Campers board the Hannah Glover on their way to Children’s Island.
COURTESY PHOTOS
KinderCampers Maya, Abi and Dempsey (left to right) each have different favorite activities at the J. Campers at the Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA practice archery.
CAMPS, P. A13
Opinion
EDItORIAL
Summer is Marblehead’s time to shine
Summertime is when Marblehead traditionally puts its best foot forward. Also, its best boat shoe, paint brush, sand shovel, pickleball paddle, lobster fork, Colonialera musket and gardening glove, to name just a few go-to seasonal accessories.
This summer has been no exception, blessed as it has been with mostly great weather — we said mostly — and a general feeling that, while national politics and conflicts overseas are serious matters demanding serious attention, we also need time and space to celebrate family, friends and our seaside town’s unique character and history.
In that spirit, the summer calendar has already brought a series of organized events that rely on hundreds of volunteers to run smoothly. Often these dedicated individuals work year-round to create a few days of fun and friendly competition enjoyed by townspeople and visitors alike.
Let’s begin, then, by saluting everyone who contributed their time and talents to making signature events like Marblehead’s Festival of Arts and Race Week unfold as planned.
The recently completed Race Week may have been hampered by light winds and fog. Yet when races did get underway, it was awesome to see nearly 150 boats and 700 competitors do their nautical thing in often challenging conditions.
We send a special shout-out to local legend Bill Widnall, who piloted his Javelin to victory in the International One Design (IOD) class. He not only took home first-place honors but also an inaugural trophy named for Widnall himself, who began his illustrious racing career back in 1966.
The best thing about winning, he observed, “is that at my age, I’m still competing.” Score that one a classic understatement.
Indeed, Widnall’s resume may never be duplicated. A charter member of the Marblehead Sailing Hall of Fame, Bill is a 10-time world champion who has inspired and mentored generations of top-flight sailors with his skills and sportsmanship. That’s quite a legacy to leave, on sea or land.
This year’s Arts Festival was rousing success as well, drawing thousands to a four-day program filled with music concerts, author talks, art exhibits, model boat racing, portrait drawing, sandcastle sculpting and myriad other activities. There were monsters on parade and close encounters with large snakes you might not want to meet in the wild (but are kind of cuddly, actually).
Great show, everybody.
Sandwiched between those marquee events we had the town’s annual Glover’s Marblehead Regiment encampment and Revolutionary War battlefield reenactment. Honoring Gen. John Glover’s hallowed place in American history, the event was highlighted by a regimental march of top-hatted soldiers from Fort Sewall to Gas House Beach to “fight” the British enemy in — literally, as it turned out — the fog of war.
In addition, there were Colonial-era craft stands, cooking demonstrations, camp tours, a fife and drum concert, and other activities designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages. Bravo.
On a smaller scale perhaps, but no less in keeping with Marblehead’s colorful summer vibe, we have much enjoyed the floral facelift on view outside the Okos Building on Washington Street. Spearheaded by the Cottage Gardeners of Marblehead and Swampscott, it welcomes visitors to the town’s historic district with a red-white-and-blue array of azaleas, hydrangeas and other beauties.
Like so much that captures our attention these days, this eye-pleasing upgrade comes courtesy of neighbors who harbor a love of the natural world plus that can-do spirit that makes Marblehead special.
“We are a town of volunteers,” Cottage Gardeners member Karen McMahon explained to the Current last month, adding, “This project might help encourage others” to get involved. Mark that as good advice going forward while we all bask in our town’s annual time to truly shine.
EVERY tHINg WILL BE OKAY
Be like Jack
BY VIRGINIA BUCKINGHAM
“How can I help?” or “What can I do?” I don’t remember which question Jack Connors, the ad executive, civic leader and philanthropist, would ask when I called or met with him over the years. In his eulogy for his father last week, John Connors cited the former as the more common refrain. I do remember how it felt, though, when he answered the phone or ushered me into his palatial office – like a guardian angel had decided to settle on one of the top floors of the Hancock Tower. A guardian angel with a thing for maple syrup, that is.
I laughed when Connor’s son recounted in front of more than 500 people at Boston College’s St. Ignatius Church (and the more than 1,500 streaming the funeral service online as I did) how his dad gave a bottle of the Vermont syrup to everyone he encountered, even at the end to the people who delivered oxygen to his bedside. It reminded me of when my son Jack came down to the Hancock lobby after meeting with Connors, eyes aglow at the 360-degree view of Boston and Connor’s personal warmth and bottle of maple syrup in hand.
To advise my Jack — “Mom, he said the best job he ever had for understanding people was being a taxi driver” — is just one time of many that I turned to Connors. I don’t claim any special relationship with him, I was just one of hundreds, maybe thousands who were graced with his kindness.
When I lost my job in 2001, I met with Connors to ask how I could begin again. Later, when I needed extra income, he hired me to write for him. When my daughter realized she’d made a huge mistake with her first college choice, it was Connors I called. It was Connors who helped.
“No one was invisible to Dad,” his son eulogized. I can personally vouch for that.
What struck me most though in the eulogy was this comment: “I want to push back on the notion that there will never be another Jack Connors,” his son insisted. Since Connors’ sudden passing in July after a brief illness, many, including me, have thought and said this — that no one can replace him. His son, though, named many possible successors, men and women, at the height of corporate power who could take up Connors’ leadership role in Boston civic life.
This got me thinking. Do you need to be in a position of wealth and influence to be able to wield so-called “soft power” like Connors did? Or do you really just have to have the profound motivation — his son said his dad called it his own personal “jihad for kindness” — that Connors had to help people, anyone really, who crossed his path?
Or as Cardinal O’Malley put it, “He was not a
FROM tHE VAu Lt
celebrity. He was a man of deeds, a hero. A man for others.”
A man — or woman — for others.
Oh, haven’t we met so many of those? It seems a good time to reflect on who in our own lives fits that description. I can name several and here’s just a few:
There’s the “running store guy” — that’s my shorthand for Mark Lorenzoni, owner of the Ragged Mountain Running and Walking Shop in Charlottesville, Virginia. Mark approached me as I perused sneakers there a few years ago and asked how my day was going. For whatever reason, I needed to talk I guess, I told him I was upset and was there to support my daughter who was very unhappy in her first semester at UVA. Immediately, Mark offered to help.
“She can work here,” he said, “we can be her family.” She was hired the next week. Mark even called the president of UVA to urge him to put more resources to support freshmen. Wow. Mark is a Jack Connors.
There’s Katie Reilly. I didn’t know this Marblehead legend who stopped to help me years ago in the Crosby’s parking lot. I was struggling to get my then-toddler into his car seat and infant daughter into hers while loading groceries into the trunk. “Let me help,” she said. And we got to talking and I told her my 9/11 background story and days later she dropped a beautiful framed poem she had written at my doorstep and wrote on the back, “Welcome home, Virginia, bring your wisdom home.” Her words buoyed me, gave me hope when I had very little. Katie Reilly is a Jack Connors.
Shelly Cohen. When I was a State House staffer, she was the somewhat terrifying editorial page editor of the Boston Herald. When I sought a writing role after my public service career ended, she practically hired me on the spot, giving me a new start. When my newsroom colleagues protested with a written petition, she crumbled it in a ball and threw it in the trash. Shelly Cohen is a Jack Connors.
Connors’ son told another story about a kindness that changed the course of his dad’s early life. After getting kicked out of public school, Jack ended up at a Catholic school where a kind nun dubbed him the kid “with the perpetual smile.” Connors gained confidence as a result of this positive reinforcement, his son recounted, and went on to earn a “master’s degree in helping people when they are down.”
How many people do you know who have done the same? A man or woman for others. There will be another Jack Connors. They are already here.
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.”
Drumming for victory
BY JARRETT ZEMAN
This humble drum saw service in two battles — one over labor rights and one to keep the country whole.
In 1860, Marblehead employed 3,000 people in local shoe factories, including 1,000 women. Factory workers endured low wages and long hours. Women earned just $4 per month while men earned $8, and shifts lasted 16 hours. Factory workers across Essex County felt the strain, and in response, Lynn shoemakers formed a union called the Mechanics Association.
When factory bosses refused to negotiate, workers across New England went on strike. On Feb. 22, 1860, 20,000 shoe workers in Marblehead and 23 towns turned off their machines and walked out of the factories. This began the largest labor strike in America before the Civil War.
On St. Patrick’s Day, 500 women marched through the streets of Marblehead to a rally in Lynn.
The Marblehead Brass Band, two local fire brigades and three militia companies escorted the women to the Lynn Town Common. Britt Bartoll, a member of the Lafayette Guard, banged the drum seen here
as part of the procession. Marblehead women carried banners emblazoned with provocative slogans like “Down with Tyranny,” “Our Bosses Grind Us” and “We Are Not Slaves.” When they arrived in Lynn, the crowd gave “three cheers for the Marblehead girls.”
However, women left the strike a few days later when they discovered that the organizers only sought pay raises for men, who feared that negotiations would break down if they fought for their shoe worker sisters. The strike ended with modest victories six weeks later: men earned a wage increase, and the factories agreed to recognize unions.
One year later, as the Battle of Fort Sumter led the nation into war, President Abraham Lincoln called for volunteers to enlist in the Union Army. Britt Bartoll banged this drum again while escorting a group of brave men to the Old Town House. They organized into companies by Knott Martin, Francis Boardman and Richard Phillips, and boarded a train to Faneuil Hall, the first Massachusetts soldiers to answer Lincoln’s call. Jarrett Zeman is the assistant director of the Marblehead Museum. “From the Vault” is a partnership between the Marblehead Museum and the Current.
COURTESY PHOTO / MARBLEHEAD MUSEUM
This drum is decorated with a depiction of John Trumbull’s famous painting, “The Declaration of Independence.”
The importance of voting
To the editor:
Looking back over 65 years of voting (voting age was 21 back then), I realize that it never occurred to me not to vote. It was kind of like brushing your teeth (the healthy thing to do) and learning to swim (an important and fun accomplishment) and even a moral obligation (if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem). Over time, I got more engaged in campaigning — just became my thing — not for everyone but it was for me. So, if you are young and just getting into voting, I can guarantee you will feel so good when you slide that ballot in the machine or put it in the mail. If you don’t normally vote, do so this time and see how it feels. If you sometimes vote but not always, go with the moral obligation idea this time — be part of the solution — or whatever it takes to get thee to the polls. If you always vote, thank you for being a patriot. The state primary election is Sept. 3 and the big election day is Nov. 5. Mark your calendar. We are so, so fortunate to live in a country where our vote is properly counted.
Mimi Hollister Glover Square
Remembering those who went before
To the editor:
The League of Women Voters of Marblehead has recently acted to honor two long time Marblehead League members who passed away during COVID
WE ARE WHO WE ARE
Voting: “If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the
and who left giant footprints in service to the town of Marblehead.
JoAnne Mayer (1926-2022) served five years as a member of the Select Board beginning in 1983, only the third woman.
JoAnne was involved in multiple other volunteer activities including Marblehead Community Counseling Center. Her family wrote in her obituary, “She always led using a modest approach with two standards: Do-what’s-right, and stand-up-to-be-counted.”
The Marblehead League chose to honor her by supporting students and education at the Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School in Danvers. The League honored JoAnne by supporting the Genocide Studies Exposition, the capstone project for the Genocide Studies course at the Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School in Danvers. Students utilized art, media and creative design to present their independent research
on genocides throughout history as well as ongoing and underrepresented human rights issues. At the May event, the League welcomed visitors, provided refreshments and contributed to defray costs of the displays. Since 2016, genocide is required to be covered in Massachusetts public schools. Essex Tech serves students from 16 north of Boston communities including Marblehead.
To honor the memory of League member Judy Jacobi (1939-2020), we wanted to do something at the Veterans Middle School, since Judy served on the School Advisory Council at Veterans for 15 years. The League of Women Voters of Marblehead volunteered to serve as community judges for the Marblehead Veteran Middle School Civics Fair on June 13. With over 60 presentations by eighth graders, it was an impressive event; as a retired teacher, Judy would have loved it! The League also developed a
Marblehead Student Advocacy Guide. Civics is a state requirement in Massachusetts schools since 2018.
Judy was a Marblehead Select Board member for 21 years among her many, many local volunteer activities. She served on boards of the Female Humane Society, Anchor to Windward, the Old Marblehead Improvement Association and Care Dimensions, formerly Hospice of the North Shore. She worked tirelessly for the town advocating for the Council on Aging, serving on both the Fort Sewall Oversight Committee and the Abbot Hall Building Committee. In 2017, Judy was named Marblehead Chamber of Commerce’s Rey Moulton Person of the Year. The League of Women Voters is non-partisan with respect to candidates and political parties. The League works to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government. Membership is open to all.
Kathy Leonardson Cloutmans Lane
Summer stars
To the editor:
I remember that summer; the summer I read 26 books. Well, I don’t really remember it, I only remember my name printed in block letters on the poster tacked to the wall behind the librarian’s desk. Next to my name was a growing list of stars; not the self-adhering ones they have today that come in every color even mylar. These stars came in a little box, each one perfectly shaped. You had to lick them and I remember the taste of that glue. That’s back when
I learned that glue was made from horses’ hooves; I never knew exactly how but I got a bad feeling in my stomach from knowing that. I didn’t get to lick those gold stars or put them on the straight line drawn next to my name, the librarian did that. This was all happening in 1948 at the Shute Branch library on Parrott Street in Lynn. It was a neighborhood library: brick, small, quiet. It was a good place for a chubby sixth grade girl looking to escape; books were ideal, I could go into someone else’s world.
I don’t remember much else about that summer except catching grasshoppers in the long, dry grass, the suppers of graham crackers and cool milk, and the library and the books and the stars by my name. I must have walked or ridden my bike there on those hot summer days when I was sure that I was the only child who missed school and did not like all the vacations: summer, Christmas, Monday holidays or weekends. I wanted to be at school. There I had the security of knowing that was going to happen, where there was structure. I was a smart little girl and my teachers liked and encouraged me. I thrived and blossomed from their kind attention.
Today I thank them and that librarian, all faceless and nameless in my memory and I thank those books that took me away. Those stories opened the doors to vast experiences and paved the way to a life long love of books and reading and gold stars.
To this day, my motto is “never leave home without a book.” And I don’t.
Sandra Winter Farrell Court
Talking about death is hard, but we kinda have to
BY LISA SUGARMAN
AUTHOR’S NOTE: What I’m about to say isn’t designed to put you in a panic, yet it very well might. So let me just apologize up front and suggest that if you’re not in a headspace to talk about death, this might not be the read for you. At least not today. But it’s a truth we all need to face at some point or another, so I’m here for it and I hope you are, too. I’ve lost a lot of people in my life. And those losses started when I was just 9 years old and have included everyone from my own father, who died by suicide, to grandparents and aunts and cousins and friends. Too many to list here if I’m being accurate. So, let’s just say that I’ve got more lived experience with death and grief and loss on my CV than I wish I had. And because of that, I’ve learned that the more I talk openly about this thing that we’re all so afraid of, the more equipped I feel I am to have the conversation and entertain the thoughts that most of us try to avoid. Because the reality is, you’re going to lose someone you love if you haven’t already, regardless of who you are, what you believe or how you live. And that’s just the sucky truth, as much as we wish it wasn’t. So, we have two choices: we either face it head-on and talk it through, or we bury it in the bottom of the emotional suitcase we all carry, and we save it for another day.
The problem with avoidance, I’ve found, is that this kind of emotional dodgeball never ends well. That’s because whenever
we toss our feelings aside, they usually boomerang back and hit us square in the face. Hard. On the other hand, when we look directly at the thing we’re trying to elude (in this case, death), we gain a little bit of perspective and control. And maybe, just maybe, that thing becomes a tiny bit less threatening.
Look, we all know there’s no absolute way of preparing ourselves to lose someone, but there are things we can do to help soften the intensity of that pain. And one of the simplest ways is just by talking about it. My mother and I have had an ongoing dialogue about death since I lost my father when I was 10. And oddly enough, as hard as those conversations have been at times, I’ve learned that I feel better somehow when I’m confronting the thing I fear the most. So, over the years, we’ve talked at length about everything from my father’s death and losing relatives we love to the sadness of knowing I’ll be losing my mom someday. And while that last one chokes my heart in a way that nothing else does, it’s created a pathway for some beautiful and necessary conversations that have somehow made it easier to navigate the thought of losing her.
At this point in our relationship, because we’ve had such open and vulnerable conversations about life and death, I’m grateful to say, my mother and I have been able to say all the things we’ve wanted to say to each other. And as someone who’s already lost a parent (and others) suddenly, I’m hyper aware of what a gift that is. I’m lucky to know, in
great detail, what my mother wants and doesn’t want, and how she feels about me, my children and my husband Dave. And those kinds of things would be left unsaid if we hadn’t invested some time having those hard-but-beautiful conversations about the one thing no one ever wants to talk about.
Now make no mistake, I’m fully aware that no number of heart-to-heart talks about death will ever take away the fear or pain of losing someone we love. It just won’t. But here’s what it can do if you’re willing to open yourself to the conversation:
It can help to reduce the fear and anxiety associated with death and dying and help make the overall subject less taboo. It can help to promote acceptance and a better understanding that death is a natural part of life.
» It can help facilitate the grieving process by allowing us to share and process our feelings and memories and fears.
It can help us feel a bit more prepared because it allows us to express our wishes for things like end-of-life care
or funeral arrangements or other important decisions, so we feel more in control.
» It can lead to deeper connections with family and friends because it can foster empathy, understanding and appreciation for each other.
» And finally, it can promote spiritual growth because talking about death and dying can lead to existential growth and reflections on the meaning and purpose of life.
So, if you happen to be one of the lucky ones who hasn’t lost someone close to you yet, you will. Which is exactly why it’s worth talking openly and tenderly about that eventuality with the people you love.
Because there’s a beautiful peace of mind that comes from having the hard-but-necessary conversations. A peace of mind that can last a lifetime.
Lisa Sugarman is an author, a nationally syndicated columnist, a three-time survivor of suicide loss, a mental health advocate and a crisis counselor with The Trevor Project. She’s also a storyteller with the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the host of “The Suicide Survivor Series” on YouTube. Lisa is also a Survivor of Suicide Loss Grief Group facilitator for Samaritans and she’s the author of “How To Raise Perfectly Imperfect Kids And Be OK With It,” “Untying Parent Anxiety” and “LIFE: It Is What It Is.” Her work has appeared on Healthline Parenthood, GrownAndFlown, TODAY Parents, Thrive Global, The Washington Post, LittleThings and More Content Now. Lisa lives and writes just north of Boston. Visit her online at lisasugarman. com.
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Marblehead Current columnist, Lisa Sugarman, center, with her parents.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
problem.”
Residents help shape town’s first comprehensive bicycle plan
BY WILL DOWD
Marblehead is shifting gears on its transportation future. On July 30, about 30 residents gathered at Abbot Hall to help shape the town’s first-ever comprehensive bicycle plan.
The workshop, facilitated by Marblehead Sustainability Coordinator Logan Casey and consultants from Toole Design Group, marked the official kickoff of the $79,000 planning process funded through the town’s COVID recovery funds.
Taylor Dennerlein, a senior engineer with Toole Design, outlined the plan’s objectives and timeline. The process began this summer with research and public outreach, including pop-up events at the Festival of Arts and the Farmers’ Market.
A draft network and facility recommendations are expected this fall, followed by project prioritization in winter. The final plan is slated for completion in spring 2025.
‘They know their streets better than we do’
Participants worked in small groups around large maps of Marblehead, drawing lines along byways they felt needed infrastructure improvements.
Some residents raised concerns about balancing bicycle infrastructure with Marblehead’s historic character. Dennerlein emphasized that the plan will take a contextsensitive approach, with recommendations tailored to different street types and neighborhoods.
“We’re not going to redesign every single road in the network,” Dennerlein said. “But
to get more people interested in biking, we want to leave a lot of room for ideas.”
Potential improvements could range from simple “share the road” signage on quiet streets to separated bike lanes on busier roads such as Lafayette Street, Pleasant Street, Atlantic Avenue, Humphrey Street and West Shore Drive. Some also wanted the town to consider supporting amenities like bike racks and repair stations.
“This is great because it’s kind of why we’re doing the project,” said Dennerlein of facilitating public worskshops. “I like to hear from residents. They know their streets better than we do.”
Jill Borten, a local cycling advocate, emphasized the safety concerns that currently deter many residents from biking.
“I hear a lot of people saying that they’re afraid to get on their bikes in town,” Borten
said. “These are adults too who feel comfortable on bicycles but won’t cycle in Marblehead because they’re too scared they’ll be hit by cars. I think that’s really, really sad.”
Many stressed the importance of infrastructure upgrades along byways and paths that students take to get to school, highlighting the potential for increased safety and independence for young cyclists.
Dennerlein noted the town has relatively low traffic volumes on many streets. However, its historic core includes many narrow, winding roads that pose difficulties for adding dedicated bike lanes.
“Marblehead is great because it is a peninsula. So you don’t have heavy volume through-routes. No one’s going through to get to another town. Basically, whoever is driving on Marblehead roads are probably coming here
because they live here, they work here or they want to visit.”
Next steps
Resident Alex Regnault, who grew up cycling in the Netherlands before moving to Marblehead, provided an international perspective on bike infrastructure.
“In Holland, bike infrastructure is amazing. Everyone uses it for daily activities,” Regnault said. “It’s not a sport, it’s just a way to get around. It’s really just a mode of transport.”
Dennerlein highlighted the potential impact: “Even if 10% of the people that are currently driving downtown to go to the restaurants or beaches switched to biking, that’s 10% less people fighting for parking spaces.”
The bicycle plan is part of a larger sustainability initiative in Marblehead. Casey explained
that it fits into the town’s recently adopted net-zero emissions plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and reach netzero by 2040.
“This plan has been kind of talked about for a while,” Casey said. “It fits into our larger continuum of development. We’re looking at how we get around in other ways without a car.”
The planning process will also consider innovative programs to encourage cycling, such as the “bike bus” initiative recently started by some parents. This program involves groups of children biking to school together under adult supervision.
The next steps in the planning process include a public meeting in late winter to review draft recommendations before the plan is finalized next spring. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged through upcoming events and, before the end of summer, fill out an online survey bit.ly/marbleheadsurvey.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible,” Casey said. “This plan will shape how we get around Marblehead for years to come, so it’s crucial that it reflects the needs and desires of our entire community.”
MHS Dems condemn ‘oppressive’ draft flag policy
BY LEIGH BLANDER
In a post on Instagram, the group Marblehead High School Democrats sharply criticized the School Committee’s new draft flag policy that would remove the Black Lives Matter banner, Pride flags and any signage other than U.S., Massachusetts, Marblehead and military flags. (It would allow signs for school and sporting events.)
“As some of you may know, our School Committee has decided to push through their oppressive flag policy, disregarding the concerns of students, parents, teachers and other community members,” the social post reads.
“The School Committee is pushing this policy during the school break intentionally in an attempt to keep students, who took action when this policy was originally introduced, left out of the conversation yet again. This is not only an extremely cowardly act, but shows the community that the committee does not care about the concerns or needs of the community it serves and will instead go to any lengths possible to push their own political agenda.”
The message continued:
“The Marblehead High School Democrats are extremely disappointed the community has not implemented any of
the demands set forth by our group. We asked for a policy that champions inclusivity, safety and prioritizes the students of our community … The proposed policy does the exact opposite, all while prioritizing their own beliefs and disregarding any student needs.”
The School Committee will
discuss the new draft for the second time at its retreat on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 9 a.m. at the Brown School. The retreat is a public meeting. The committee needs to discuss the policy three times before it can vote. Schaeffner has said she hopes to implement the policy before the school year begins.
The Current reached out to Schaeffner and interim Superintendent John Robidoux for comment. Schaeffner’s reply email states she is out of the district until Aug. 12. Robidoux, whom Schaeffner said supports the draft policy, did not respond before the Current’s print deadline.
Resources Department, payroll and the Treasurer’s Office to prepare final checks and unemployment notifications as required by law.
The board’s chair, John Kelley, in a phone interview with the Current, defended the board’s actions. Bertolino allegedly admitted to making a “major error” in land valuations for a specific neighborhood during a March 19 meeting, he pointed out. This alleged admission, coupled with the findings of an independent audit, were sufficient grounds for termination, Kelley said.
Kezer said he didn’t know about Bertolino’s firing until an hour after it happened.
“Looking at the statute, it wasn’t necessary,” Kelley said,
referring to the lack of formal notice. “If that was the only thing that we had to consider, then I would have given a lot more thought. However, as I mentioned at the meeting, she at a public meeting stated she made a major error. To me, her stating that was sufficient.”
The Current’s calls to Bertolino for comment were not returned.
In response to concerns about potential violations of labor laws, Kelley stated, “That can be totally worked out in the courts if need be. We have to move on. It’s not like we have a 20-person department; you have one person you have a concern about. It’s a small department. And as the professional who’s heading the department, we just can’t let this go on month after month after month.”
The board, in defending its actions, pointed to a series of missteps in the 2024 assessment
process that led to dramatic and seemingly arbitrary changes in property values across Marblehead. Some homeowners saw steep increases, while others experienced decreases, creating an inequitable tax burden throughout the town.
As a result, Marblehead received 334 abatement requests in January 2024 — the most since 2008. The town approved over 80% of these applications, necessitating approximately $541,000 in refunds to taxpayers.
James Doherty from JFD Property Services LLC carried out an independent review. His report, dated April 26, found major issues with how property assessments were done, concluding that the approach “not only created potential inequity amongst various neighborhoods but required nonsensical adjustments.”
Kelley emphasized the unprecedented nature of the situation, stating, “This is a whole new experience for me. I’ve been doing this for 40 years, and it’s just never occurred.”
The termination raised questions about the authority of the board and the implementation of a recent Town Meeting vote. Article 35, approved in May, aimed to restructure the Assessing Department by moving it and the town assessor under the supervision of the finance department.
However, board member Jonathan Lederman said the article’s wording appears to contain a critical drafting error. In Marblehead, the ‘town assessor’ under state law legally refers to the three-member elected Board of Assessors, not the “assistant assessor” position held by Bertolino.
“Looking at the laws, it’s
pretty clear that under Chapter 41, section 25A, we have the authority to hire and remove assistant-assessors,” Lederman said.
The board has directed Kelley to immediately develop a comprehensive job description and implement a hiring strategy. However, the exact role of the Finance Department in the selection process remains unclear.
While the language in the Town Meeting vote on Article 35 may not hold muster, some argue its passage is a public mandate for more Finance Department involvement over the Assessor Department’s affairs.
When asked about potential involvement from the Finance Department in selecting the next assistant assessor, Kelley said, “I am not sure at the moment. I’d like to discuss that with my board.”
The town seeks public input for their bicycle implementation plan. Use your phone to access the survey through this QR code.
CURRENT PHOTO / WILL DOWD
Community members collaborate on mapping out potential bicycle routes during a workshop at Abbot Hall on July 30.
CURRENT PHOTO / LEIGH BLANDER
The School Committee’s new draft flag policy would remove the Black Lives Matter banner and Pride flags at MHS.
Retired police chief works both sides of aisle at political conventions
BY LEIGH BLANDER
It has been a busy summer for Marblehead’s retired police chief Robert Picariello, who worked at last month’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and is headed to the Democratic Convention in Chicago on Aug. 17. Picariello, who still lives in town, now works with FirstNet, a nationwide communications network dedicated to first responders.
“My job is to help ensure that the network is stable and solid and that first responders have a good network for emergencies and planned events like the DNC and RNC,” Picariello told the Current.
“We’ve been planning with the RNC and DNC for a year,” he explained. “We put in place all kinds of back-ups, if for some reason something were to go sideways. We have the ability to give first responders a network, even when everything else has gone wrong.”
After serving as Marblehead’s top cop for 35 years, Picariello retired in 2021. The next year, he started as a FirstNet Response Operations Group chief in New England.
Picariello describes FirstNet as being in the “what if” business.
“We’ll put out big satellite
trucks with giant antennas on them, so if the wire line that feeds the cell towers gets cut for some reason — whether it be a storm or a guy digging a hole digs up the wire, or someone doing a bad thing, which we know can happen — we have
these satellite assets that will produce cell service for first responders,” he said.
In addition to political conventions, FirstNet provides support at events from the Super Bowl and Lollapalooza to local Strawberry Festivals.
“Anything you can think of where lots and lots of people go,” Picariello said. He enjoyed the GOP convention, even though things were tense after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.
“Everybody was shocked by it, but it didn’t really didn’t change our posture much,” he said. “We always plan for the worst possible thing that could happen.”
Picariello is looking forward to Chicago, although it could be more challenging.
“It’s a bigger, more sprawling city,” he said. “It causes us to support various venues that are more spread out. It doesn’t change what we do. It just makes the plan a little different.”
After decades on the beat in Marblehead, Picariello is enjoying his new career.
“You know, I love it,” he said. “We’re all former first responders or military. They teach us the network stuff, but what we know from our careers in our previous jobs is what they can’t teach us. We interact with the first responders on the ground. We understand what they need. It helps a tremendous amount to have the experience I had for 35 years. I get to bring some of my old career and learn new stuff.”
And being at the conventions has been a great experience, he said.
“It was awesome watching democracy happen and being able to be on the sidelines,” he said. “It reaffirms why this country is great.”
Neighborhood meeting called for $67M Broughton Road redevelopment
BY LEIGH BLANDER
Marblehead Housing Authority
Director Cathy Hoog has not yet made a recommendation on whether to partner with WinnDevelopment for a proposed $67 million Broughton Road redevelopment project.
“We are still negotiating terms we’d want in the memorandum of understanding,” Hoog told the Current. “I want to make sure we are in line with terms before doing so. Once we get on the same page about terms of an MOU then I can recommend a designation.”
The MHA is encouraging Broughton Road residents to come to a neighborhood meeting about the project on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 6 p.m., at the Marblehead High School cafeteria.
“The purpose of this meeting is to discuss where we are with this project and answer any questions
the residents have at this point about the project and their rights in the process,” Hoog said.
During construction, residents impacted would be temporarily relocated to other public housing units or provided with
from the Marblehead’s Housing Production Plan Implementation Committee after being forced to move out of town due to the very housing issues he was working to address.
“It left me with a feeling of sadness,” said Ward. “But then, to me, I also think it’s unjust.” Ward also highlighted other examples: “There is a member of our Housing Coalition who’s staring down the barrel of the exact same thing. She wants to stay in Marblehead but she doesn’t want to stay in her family home. She literally cannot find a unit of housing.” Ward spoke to another member who grew up in Marblehead but plans to move elsewhere due to affordability issues.
According to the Marblehead Housing Production Plan, the town’s demographics have shifted significantly over the past five decades. The number of children under 17 has fallen from 6,700 in 1970 to fewer than 4,400 today, while the median age has increased from 34 to 50 during the same period.
Ward believes these changes underscore the need for action.
“We need to recognize that the goal here is to diversify the housing stock,” he said. “We need to get people comfortable with the idea that we can develop Marblehead in a gentle, incremental way that is good for the town.”
The proposed MBTA rezoning plan aims to create three districts totaling 58.4 acres and allow 15.9 dwellings per acre, surpassing the state law’s requirement for Marblehead to
subsidized housing options in the private market, according to Kurt James with Marblehead’s Fair Housing Committee.
Elevator mishap
At a July 30 MHA meeting,
rezone at least 27 acres. Critics have voiced concerns about impacts on infrastructure, schools and Marblehead’s character. Some argue that the state has no right to dictate local zoning decisions.
Fox alleges misinformation played a role in the initial rejection of the plan. “There was misinformation about what type of housing would come to Marblehead,” he said.
Ward contends the opposition may be based on misunderstandings about the economic impacts of new housing development. “We are hearing this idea that building more housing makes property values come down,” Ward said. “But that understanding is based on neither the data nor the economic model that underpins that assumption.”
According to MassGIS data that Ward crunched,
member Bill Kuker said he was trapped inside an elevator at the three-story Roads School housing development. Hoog said it is being investigated.
“We don’t have any details on the elevator incident beyond
single-family home values have grown more slowly in Marblehead compared to neighboring communities that have built more housing. He argues that by not building more housing, Marblehead has lost out on opportunities for new growth tax revenue. This, in return, has contributed to the town’s challenging financial state, given the constraints of Proposition 2½. The state law limits annual increases in property tax levies.
The coalition aims to dig deeper, using data to prove that Marblehead’s stagnant growth is a self-inflicted wound, caused by its own restrictive zoning policies.
Ward acknowledges that changing minds will take time, and the coalition’s goals extend beyond a single issue.
“Three A zoning is just the beginning, not the end,” said Ward. “Our goal is not to pass
that the door got jammed as something was stuck in it and bent,” she said. “The elevator is designed to stop if there is a mechanical issue. The elevator stopped, and emergency personnel assisted the person stuck in the elevator to get out. The bent component that was stuck was pulled out/ repaired, and the elevator was immediately put back into service.”
The MHA voted 4-0, with Kuker abstaining, to approve a state requirement that when the MHA pulls applications from the waitlist, one pull out of every four will be a minority applicant. Kuker said he believed all local residents and veterans on the waitlist should have priority.
There are more than 12,000 families on the waitlist list for MHA housing. The waitlist for elderly housing is more than 8,000.
3A zoning and that’s it, wipe our hands and go home. We’re not going anywhere.”
Ward continued: “We need people with a lot of agency, who are both invested in the issue and highly motivated to really roll up their sleeves and do stuff. We also need people who recognize that we’ve got to solve the market-rate portion before we can effectively address affordability.”
Fox indicated town officials are considering next steps regarding the 3A compliance vote.
“Everything is being explored,” Fox said. “I expect us to make a decision at some point [in the next month or two].”
Ward invites Marblehead residents to join the coalition and get involved. To receive email updates via the coalition website, visit marbleheadhousingcoalition. com.
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Marblehead’s Robert Picariello, middle back row, with his FirstNet colleagues at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.
COURTESY RENDERING
Broughton Road residents are invited to a meeting to talk about a proposed $67 million redevelopment project.
Marblehead’s best bets
Current Events spotlights exciting happenings in the coming week. If you’d like to contribute a listing, please email Current editor Leigh Blander at lblander@marbleheadnews.org. Leigh Blander
Hearts & Humor
Saturday, Aug. 10, 6 p.m.
Actor and best-selling author Rob Delaney, who grew up in Marblehead and graduated from MHS in 1995, is coming back to town for a special program called Hearts & Humor, with the Marblehead Counseling Center. He’ll be joined by WBZ-TV News anchor Lisa Hughes. Together, they will discuss Delaney’s memoir, “A Heart That Works,” which
Jazz at the Arts:
Yoko Miwa Trio
Thursday, Aug. 15, 7 p.m.
The Marblehead Arts Association and Gene Arnould present Jazz at the Arts, a concert series featuring the Yoko Miwa Trio. The trio’s 2021 release “Songs of Joy” topped national jazz radio charts. Learn more and get tickets at marbleheadarts.org.
explores the devastating journey of losing his 2-year-old son, Henry, to a brain tumor.
The book reveals Delaney’s hardlearned truths and has proven to be a piece of solace for anyone who has experienced profound loss. Hearts & Humor will be at the Veterans School Performing Arts Center. For more information and tickets (which are $30), visit loom.ly/YBORXH4.
ContactDonna at mhdcurrentads@gmail.com or call781-775-8333
Marblehead Museum’s Great Treasure Sale
Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 a.m.- 2p.m.
The Marblehead Museum hosts its annual Treasure Sale in the Jeremiah Lee Mansion Gardens, 161 Washington St. Check out the selection of books, small furniture, lighting, jewelry, artwork, maps, ceramics, vintage household items, clothes and accessories. To learn more about donating items to the sale, visit marbleheadmuseum.org.
Accidentally on Purpose
Saturday, Aug. 17, 7:30 p.m.
Silly Theatre Productions, Marblehead Little Theatre and Bentwater Brewery team up to bring Accidentally on Purpose Improv Comedy Troupe to MLT, 12 School St. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door.
“It’s been a year since we’ve had the keg-n-komedy format with complimentary beer provided by our sponsor Bentwater Brewery,” said producer/comedian Bruce Whear. “The audience will be able to participate in a joke contest with prizes to open the show.”
For more info and tickets, go to mltlive.com.
A. Erbetta P.O. Box 44, Marblehead, MA 01945 (617) 293-8512
Please contact gail@marbleheadchildrenscenter.com 781-631-1954 Forinfoabout salary +benefits (includingfreechildcarefor full time employees).
Full moon yoga in the gardens
Tuesday, Aug. 20, 7-8 p.m.
Join The Yoga Loft for a full moon yoga class in the Lee Mansion Gardens, 161 Washington St. $25 for drop-in participation, or reserve your spot at marbleheadyogaloft. com.
Sports
FIELD OF DREAMs
Replacing home turf
BY GREY COLLINS
Just in time for the fall season, the Marblehead High School football field will have a fresh new layer of turf. The process of laying down the turf takes about a month and will be completed this week. The new turf will improve the safety and the gameplay for MHS athletes.
“It was getting slippery out there,” said Kent Wheeler, the newly appointed athletic director at MHS. “So their footing will be much better on the new turf.”
Many MHS athletes are also very excited to go out and play on the new turf.
“It was really easy to slip on the old turf,” said Cora Gerson, a soccer player at MHS. “It just looks like it’s going to be a much safer field to play on.”
The field will be used by high school football, soccer, and field hockey, adult men’s soccer, boys and girls lacrosse, boys and girls soccer, flag football, and occasionally by youth football.
Laying down the new turf, however, was just the last step of a year-long process of fundraising and planning.
“We did a summer kickoff cocktail party, we ran a golf tournament, a 5k road race, and we held a pickleball tournament,” said Muffy Paquette, co-chair of the All Sports Boosters club, which raises money for all MHS sports.
“The homecoming dance at the highschool was partially a fundraiser for the turf as well, and National Grand bank was our hero and provided a gigantic donation.”
In total, the new turf cost over $ 800,000, all of which was provided in donations.
The new turf is expected to last about eight to 10 years, but by maintaining it well, it could last a few years longer, Paquette said. The last turf
lasted 12 years before it had to be replaced.
To the surprise and delight of the Boosters Club and the MHS community, many unexpected people around Marblehead stepped up to donate in order to make this new field a reality.
“This community never ceases to amaze me in that they always step up,” said Paquette. “And what I find really heartwarming is that it isn’t just people who have kids that go to the high school that donate. Everyone understands the significance of having a playing field like this.”
Organizers feel that it’s not just about creating a good playing surface, it’s also about creating a great experience for the fans.
“We’ve done so much to renovate the areas around the turf that it was perfect timing
that we could replace the field now,” said Paquette. “The Forever Fan Zone, the murals that were painted on the wall a few years ago, the standing snack shed, it’s all just a complete experience, and now that we have this beautiful new field I feel like the experience is complete.”
Paquette also thinks that building a good sports environment is a cornerstone for building a community.
“Athletics does so much for a student,” said Paquette. It teaches them to be a teammate, it gives them athletic ability, keeps them in shape and it helps teach them how to plan out their day.”
Grey Collins is a junior at Marblehead High School. His photographs and reporting appear in the Current.
COURTESY PHOTOS
The new turf at Piper Field should be complete this week, just in time for fall sports.
Post 57 Mariners shut down Andover to win District 8 junior championship
Marblehead/Swampscott makes the state tournament for the second straight summer
BY JOE MCCONNELL
The Marblehead/Swampscott
American Legion Post 57 junior U-17 Mariners (15-2) are heading back to the state tournament for the second year in a row after a convincing 9-0 win over Andover in the District 8 championship game on July 30 at Swampscott’s Forest Avenue Park. It was their 14th straight win, but because of circumstances beyond their control — makeup games that weren’t made up — the Mariners finished second to Beverly in the regular season.
“The bottom of our lineup helped us capture the shutout victory over Andover,” said coach Steve Correnti. “Zach Alex, Beau Olivieri and Nate Lee combined for five of the team’s nine hits in the victory. They also scored one run apiece, while driving in two each to practically account for all of the team’s offense.”
The Mariners didn’t waste any time to break the district championship game wide open with five runs in the opening stanza.
Caden Ross chipped in with a two-run double to lead the offensive attack during the early uprising.
Chase Groothuis also doubled that led to another Mariners run. Lee singled home the other two runs for the locals.
The Mariners added another run in the second as a result of a wild pitch.
Alex threw a complete game for the Mariners. The righthanded pitcher allowed just two hits over seven innings. He issued no walks, while whiffing five.
Groothuis was credited with two hits and three RBI to help pace the offensive attack throughout the entire game. Alex, as the ninth hitter, was a perfect three-for-three on offense. Ross and Lee each collected multiple hits. Michael Collins walked twice to keep things moving in the right direction.
“Overall, the team had a strong eye at the plate,” said Correnti.
“They accumulated six walks as an example of their keen eye and patience. They also didn’t commit a single error in the field. (Catcher) Cooper Correnti had the most defensive chances with six.
“David Palmer and Alex led the pitching staff on the mound that also included Chase Groothuis, Jesse Swartz, Connor Chiarello, Nick Berube, Lee and Collins. The team ERA was 2.65, and its batting average was .387, before the start of the state tournament,” added Correnti.
“We have been averaging nine runs per game.” Adam Sparacio, Berube, Ross, Correnti, Collins, Swartz and Lee are all batting above .400 so far this year.
Eighth grader Beau Olivieri is the youngest member of the squad, but the blossoming star has really stood out from the second half of the regular season on by playing solid defense and hitting an extraordinary .546. For the entire season, as of Aug. 2, he’s batting .346.
The American Legion junior state tournament, featuring the state’s top eight clubs,
started up last Saturday (Aug. 3) for the Mariners in Middleboro, when they went up against Sandwich Post 188 after press deadline.
All four district champs were scheduled to go up against the District 3, 8 and 10 runners-up to go along with the host team — Middleboro Post 64, an automatic qualifier — the last four days to begin the chase to the state title.
The championship game will take place Aug. 7, weather permitting.
“The team is excited to enter the state tournament for
the second year in row,” said Correnti.
On Aug. 3, Beverly Post 331 (District 8A) took on Pembroke Post 143 (District 10B3) in the tournament opener, followed by West Springfield Post 207 (District 3B) against Dedham Post 18 (District 6). Post 57 (District 8B) then took to the field versus the aforementioned Sandwich (District 10A). Pittsfield Post 68 (District 3A) completes Day 1 in the nightcap against Middleboro.
Games will continue on from Aug. 4-6, before the state title game on Aug. 7, once again.
grad Miles O’Neill starts SEC career
BY JOE MCCONNELL
Almost 14 months ago, on June 12, 2023, then-Texas A&M head football coach Jimbo Fisher and his staff landed one of the more underrated signal callers in the 2024 cycle, and in so doing they pulled off another coup in the East Coast region for the NCAA Division 1 SEC (Southeastern Conference) school.
This time, it turned out to be a kid from Marblehead of all places, when quarterback Miles O’Neill chose to commit to the Aggies over his hometown Boston College Eagles in the late stages of the recruiting commitment process. Without being able to see him in person, Fisher saw enough on tape to witness O’Neill’s potential to eventually play college football. Standing at a whopping 6-5 and 220 pounds, everything is there from a physical standpoint, but the video highlights also showed O’Neill’s incredible arm strength and touch on vertical, corner and seam routes. He was tossing 50-plus yard bombs with ease. But now, he’ll be shoring those skills for new Aggies head
coach Mike Elko, who has taken over the job from Fisher after Fisher was fired last November. Fisher is now working for longtime rival Lane Kiffin as his “Offensive Guru and Head Schematic Mastermind” at Ole Miss, as described in the University of Mississippi Rebels press release that detailed the hire.
O’Neill officially signed on to suit up for the Aggies last December. The Marblehead High product played at The Hun School in New Jersey last fall,
where he ended up earning the New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year in football. Before he took off for New Jersey, O’Neill played a leading role on both the football and basketball teams for the Magicians during his junior campaign. In football, he quarterbacked coach Jim Rudloff’s squad to the Division 3 quarterfinal game against host Milton. Despite losing the close encounter, 24-20, O’Neill’s Magicians finished up with an 8-2 record in 2022, and were
the eighth seed in the power rankings.
Just four months later, in a Division 2 Round of 16 basketball game, O’Neill personally catapulted his teammates to the Elite 8 after putting his own rebound back up for two to upset host Pope Francis in the closing seconds, 59-57.
O’Neill is now bringing those athletic instincts to the Aggies. But instead of learning the college game from legendary offensive coordinator Bobby
Petrino, he’ll be getting those instructions from Collin Klein, who was hired by Elko. Petrino left after Fisher was summarily let go by the school. Klein is inheriting a freshman quarterback with a strong arm, football intelligence (4.0 GPA) and mistake-free play in his vertical game. O’Neill will also be learning the game from returning starter Conner Weigman. The Aggies will open up against Notre Dame at home on Aug. 31.
Some of the information obtained for this story came from the AggiesWire website.
COURTESY PHOTO
Marblehead/Swampscott American Legion Post 57 junior team pitcher Zach Alex looks in for a sign during the District 8 championship game against Andover in Swampscott on July 30. Alex went the distance on the mound, throwing all seven innings, to secure the title clincher, 9-0.
Miles O’Neill makes the leap to the powerful SEC with the Texas A&M Aggies
Former summer resident wins Olympic bronze
BY LEIGH BLANDER AND US SAILING’S LEXI PLINE
Young sailors at Marblehead’s Pleon Yacht Club were watching the Olympics closely as one of Pleon’s most famous alums won the bronze for the United States on Friday, Aug. 2.
“Pleon was so excited to arrive this morning to the news of Ian’s and his teammate Hans’ Bronze medal win,” said Lisa Hoguet on the Pleon Board of Directors on Friday. “We have been following their Olympic journey and it is such an inspiration for our young sailors to see someone who grew up at the club and who sailed these same little boats make it all the way to the Olympics. Congratulations to Ian and Hans from the entire Pleon community!”
After five days of racing on international sport’s biggest stage, Team USA Skipper Ian Barrows and Hans Henken won a bronze medal in the men’s skiff (49er) event at the Paris Olympic Games. Barrows grew up in St. Thomas but spent summers in Marblehead, where he sailed at the Pleon Yacht Club in the 2000s.
“ I have records of him being awarded perpetual trophies from Pleon in 2008 and 2009,” Hoguet said.
This is the U.S. Sailing Team’s first Olympic medal in sailing since Caleb Paine claimed a bronze in Rio in 2016. It is also Barrows and Henken’s first Olympic appearance.
“I’m speechless, I still can’t
believe it,” said Barrows. “I’m really happy, especially for Hans as he’s been doing this for a really long time. Our team is amazing, and we couldn’t have done it without each and every one of them.”
“We put in so much hard work to get here and to have it all come together in this last race is just amazing,” added Henken.
“Ian and I had the goal of having a chance in the medal race — we knew that’s a level that we had. Just to be there felt like an achievement in its own right, and to finish with this bronze medal is really the cherry on top.”
For the final race of the Paris Olympics, the pair started towards the pin end of the starting line, securing their choice of the left side for the first upwind. Their close rivals,
Dickson and Waddilove of Ireland, were OCS — on the wrong side of the starting line when the starting signal was given — and forced to return to the starting line, which opened the door for Barrows and Henken to inch closer to the bronze medal position.
Staying close to the front of the fleet, Barrows and Henken rounded the first upwind mark in sixth. They put the pedal to the metal on the downwind, playing a great leg and picking up two boats, closing the gap with the Swiss.
They stayed close to the Swiss on the second upwind, overtaking them at a close mark rounding and soaring into fourth for the last race of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“It’s great to see years of hard work, dedication and
commitment come to fruition with the team to securing a bronze medal at the Olympics,” said Marcus Lynch, U.S. sailing team high performance director.
“Our recent medal victory, the first since Rio, is a testament to the incredible team atmosphere we’ve cultivated.”
Lynch continued, “The cohesion and dedication of the athletes, coaches and staff were crucial to our success.
We’ve focused on creating a professional, productive and constructive culture for our athletes, putting the right people in place and creating an environment where every athlete can thrive.”
Barrows competed nationally in high school competitions and internationally on the
youth sailing stage. In 2017, he graduated from Yale with a degree in economics. While sailing at Yale, Barrows helped lead the team to eight national championship titles and was named a four-time collegiate AllAmerican and College Sailor of the Year in 2017.
After college, Barrows shifted his attention to an Olympic campaign, inspired by his brother, Thomas, who competed in two Olympic Games (2008 and 2016) and coached the Men’s 470 team at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Barrows teamed up with Henken in 2021 with sights set on Paris 2024 and secured their ticket to Marseille by winning the U.S. Olympic team trials in Miami in January.
Neighbors embrace Olympic spirit
BY WILL DOWD
As the world’s eyes are on Paris for the Summer Olympics, a close-knit neighborhood in Marblehead hosted its own version of the international sporting event, bringing together neighbors in a display of community spirit and friendly competition.
The Mystic and Florence roads neighborhood, tucked away on two, dead-end streets, held its Neighborhood Summer Olympics on Sunday, July 28. The event saw eight homes transform into different “countries,” each hosting an hour of festivities complete with themed food, drinks and activities.
This local celebration is more than just a nod to the global games; it’s a continuation of a rich community tradition dating back decades.
“Originally, back in the late 1920s, this area was known as Leggs Hill Park,” said Maureen Tarpinian, showing off photo copies of old Marblehead Messenger newspapers on her dining room table. “If you look at old Marblehead Messenger articles, there’s a lot on just the social aspect of the neighborhood.”
The area’s history of community gatherings runs deep.
“The Horribles Parade actually used to be here on Mystic and Florence,” Tarpinian said. “It would go down Brookhouse and loop back around.”
This year’s Olympics-themed event is just the latest in a series of neighborhood gatherings that have become increasingly elaborate over the years. Colleen Connor, a longtime resident and close friend of the Tarpinian family, recalls how it all began.
“When we moved here from Chicago in 2005, none of the neighbors knew each other,”
Connor said. “We decided to have ‘bagels and PJs’ one morning. It was supposed to be from 8-10 a.m., but nobody left. People were all saying, ‘Who did you use for your electrician? Who do you use for
your carpenter?’ We all started realizing that we needed each other.” People didn’t start leaving until 1 p.m., she added.
From those humble beginnings, the neighborhood’s social calendar has grown
to include Oktoberfest celebrations, Christmas parties, and now, their own Olympics, a tradition that began in 2012.
For this year’s event, each participating home chose a country to represent. The day
kicked off with an opening ceremony in “Paris” before participants made their way through seven other “countries,” sampling international cuisines and participating in themed activities along the way.
Peter and Maureen Tarpinian’s home represented Italy, complete with a pizza oven and Aperol spritzes. Down the street, the Hawthorns chose Morocco, inspired by their daughter’s study abroad experience.
The event wasn’t just about food and drinks. Each “country” also hosted family-friendly activities, from thumb wrestling in Greece to pin-the-moustacheon-the-Mona-Lisa in France.
One of the day’s highlights was the Olympic torch relay. The organizers used an official 1996 Olympic torch, passed down through one family’s connection to the Atlanta games.
“Whenever we’re at a house and it’s time to go to the next country, we ask the person from the next country to have the youngest member of their family carry the torch,” Connor said. “It makes these kids so happy that they are in the front of the line, leading the entire neighborhood to their party.” Meanwhile, the residents of Mystic and Florence roads are already looking ahead to their next community event. There’s talk of an upcoming rib fest, where several of the neighborhood’s amateur grill masters will showcase their skills. Connor and Tarpinian are grateful for their neighbors, appreciating the strong sense of community that unifies them.
“You know you’re in a good neighborhood when someone texts you, ‘Hey, your trunk is open, and it’s been like that for about 45 minutes,’” Tarpinian added with a chuckle and a smile. “That’s the kind of place this is.”
COURTESY PHOTO SAILING ENERGY / US SAILING TEAM
Ian Barrows, left, and Hans Henken celebrate after winning a bronze medal in the Men’s Skiff event at the Olympics.
COURTESY PHOTO / US SAILING Olympic bronze medalist Ian Barrows spent his summers sailing at Marblehead’s Pleon Yacht Club.
COURTESY PHOTOS
The iconic seven Olympic rings welcome the children of the Mystic and Florence roads neighborhood on July 28.
Betsy Gay, a resident of the Mystic and Florence roads neighborhood, leads a procession of children during their annual Neighborhood Summer Olympics on July 28.
Maureen Tarpinian and her daughter, Cecilia, head the Neighborhood Olympic Games procession, showcasing their community spirit.
Town hosts teens from Friends Forever International for community-building day
BY LIA GORBACH
A group of 13 teenagers from the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland spent a day in Marblehead on July 29 as part of a program with Friends Forever International.
FFI is a nonprofit that teaches teens from around the world how to “connect with themselves, with each other and with the earth,” according to its website.
“It’s about building confidence to go back to your community and inspire others,” said Shay, a 17-year-old from Northern Ireland.
The teens were in the United States for two weeks, based in New Hampshire. They traveled to Marblehead to meet with Rotarians, members of Marblehead Little Theatre, three Current interns (including this reporter) and the director of Sustainable Marblehead.
The day began at Boston Yacht Club and a boat ride around Marblehead Harbor on the Elizabeth M, courtesy of Doug Mentuck and Patricia Sullivan. The water was rough and a light rain accompanied the group, but the teens were unphased by the weather as they’re used to the cloudy and rainy climate of Ireland.
In order to participate, individuals must be accepted to the program. The application process was tough, said Lauren, also from Northern Ireland. The questions were lengthy, in-depth and got deeply personal, requiring applicants to reflect on the hardest moments in their life.
The group met only once at an orientation prior to their trip. Lauren was unable to attend the orientation, however, and showed up to the airport knowing nobody and without her phone.
“Luckily, we went from strangers to family quickly,” she said.
The teens are not allowed to bring their phone on the twoweek trip and must adhere to a vegan diet so that, no matter what dietary restrictions someone has, everyone at the table is eating the same thing. They are also given daily goals based on personal characteristics they want to work on. Shay’s goal for the day was to think before he speaks by weighing
made contact with (suspect’s) mid back causing him to stop due to his body locking up.”
“While still pursuing (the driver), I ordered him to stop giving the following order ‘STOP OR YOU WILL BE TASED, I WILL TASE YOU IF YOU DO NOT STOP.’” Farewell went on to write that after the order was given, the suspect allegedly still refused to listen and continued to run.
“At this time, I yelled ‘TASER TASER TASER’ and deployed one of cartridges from my Taser,” wrote Farewell. “The two darts from the cartridge then
EMS responded to the scene to evaluate the suspect for minor injuries from the Taser deployment and fall. Farewell reported smelling a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage on the suspect’s breath.
The suspect allegedly admitted to drinking a whiskey and Red Bull earlier that day. He was transported to the Marblehead Police Department, where he agreed to a breathalyzer test. Due to the breathalyzer being out of service, he was taken to the Swampscott Police
Department, where he registered a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.20%, more than twice the legal limit of 0.08%.
During the investigation, an officer reported having discovered an unopened Michelob Ultra can on the driver’s side floor of the suspect’s vehicle and an empty Coors Light can in the bushes near the crash site.
The driver admitted to the Current that he had been drinking and he regrets it.
“I hope it’s the worst mistake I ever make in my life,” he said.
The driver was charged with operating under the influence
of liquor, leaving the scene of property damage, negligent operation of a motor vehicle and resisting arrest.
Disciplinary hearing
The hearing led by Kezer will determine if Farewell should face further discipline, including possible termination. Kezer provided Select Board members with Brady’s full investigative report, which he said would remain a privileged document for now.
The driver said he holds no ill will against Farewell.
“I don’t wish for the officer to get in trouble or anything. He
the pros and cons of his words. Lauren’s goal was to build self confidence by working up the courage to ask for help with chores and not do the work by herself.
A community action project is the culmination of the program, according to Shay. Each individual chooses a topic to pursue. Shay wants to help make his community more sustainable. Lauren wants to encourage youth in Ireland to get involved in politics and vote. Another participant, Kathleen, wants to encourage women to pursue STEM.
“People think because I’m super girly, I’m also ditzy. I want to prove that women have a place in the field,” Kathleen said.
Another requirement is for each person to give a speech to the rest of the group at some point in the trip, speaking on how FFI’s values align with their own. These values include resilience, empathy, communication, achieving impact, encouraging playfulness and putting in effort.
Shay was nervous about his speech, which was going to occur later in the day. His speech focused on resilience, and how he had to stay strong despite growing up without a father present.
The rest of the day was filled with charades, a vegan lunch accompanied by a talk about plastic pollution, given by Elaine Leahy from Sustainable Marblehead, a clean-up project at Crocker Park and an improv activity at Marblehead Little Theatre.
The teenagers find out their next day’s schedule, including when they’ll give their speech, the day before, but find continuity in their evenings at the New Hampshire lake house.
“Our ideal evening activity after our community projects is to make each other vegan smoothies and sit back and watch the fireflies,” Shay said.
The group returned to Ireland on July 31. In order to stay in the FFI program as alumni, they must complete their community action project. They have the opportunity to accompany future groups on trips, perhaps one day returning to Marblehead.
should probably learn from what he did, though.”
Farewell was appointed as a full-time police officer by the Select Board on July 27, 2022, pending successful completion of tests and exams. He graduated from the Police Academy on March 10, 2023, and joined the Marblehead Police Department.
Last week’s suspension comes about five months after another Marblehead police officer, Christopher Gallo, was fired after a two-year paid suspension. Gallo was accused of spending more than 100 hours at home during work shifts.
CURRENT PHOTO / LIA GORBACH
Following the boat ride, the group played a game of charades inside the Boston Yacht Club.
CURRENT PHOTO / GREY COLLINS
Despite the dreary weather, the Elizabeth M brought teens from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland around Marblehead Harbor and into Salem Sound on July 31.
CURRENT PHOTO / GREY COLLINS
Summer corn — on and off the cob
BY LINDA BASSETT
These days fresh corn is everywhere. Piled in the back of a farmer’s pickup, arranged in bins at the supermarket, each green husk swaddles an ear like a newborn baby. I scoop up those ears by the dozen to gorge on while the season lasts.
In some markets, shoppers can shuck ears right on site, best done if dinner is within a few hours. Leaving them to hang out overnight all naked like that toughens them and drains the sweetness. Shucking corn is a messy business, so some of us do the job on the back porch like our grandmothers did.
Purists maintain that the Native Americans knew the best way to prepare corn on the cob. They built a fire right in the field, an impractical ideal for today’s cooks. Modern cooks slip the ears into a bubbling pot soon after purchase, and let it bubble for three minutes for tenderness.
I like to drain the pot, then swirl a half stick of butter in the empty pot while it’s still hot. I return the ears to the pot and roll them around in the melted butter. When I want to shake it up, I find an herbal or spicy partner for the butter. How about cilantro-and-lime (zest) butter? Or cayenne-and-cumin?
Once everyone’s had their fill of traditional corn, shake up the prep. How about a meal on a skewer? I buy the longest ones I can find and thread them with steamed potatoes, chunks of par-cooked sausage, whole button mushrooms, red pepper and zucchini, and corn cut into 2-inch chunks. Brushed with oil and finished on the grill, they keep kids busy and happy for the duration of dinner. Hint: Soak
Camps
who prefer to stay ashore, the Y runs gymnastics and soccer camps at its Leggs Hill Road facility.
“It’s been a really great, positive summer,” said Lynch/ van Otterloo Y Executive Director Brian Flynn. “We’re busy from the start of summer all the way to the end.”
A personal mission of the YMCA, according to Flynn, is to make their camps accessible and beneficial for everyone. This year, the Y has provided $200,000 in financial aid to families in need. Additionally, their partnership with McLean Hospital in Belmont has allowed the Y to extend their camps to kids who need extra support.
“Our camps are focused on a sense of belonging, achievement and relationships,” said Flynn, describing the camps’ philosophy of providing connections and life lessons to their campers.
the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading so they don’t catch fire. Alternatively, cut the kernels off the ears. To do this, take a slice from the bottom (wide end) to make a flat surface on each ear for a steady base. Hold each ear upright, on the flat part, in a wide bowl and run the blade of a paring knife down the length of the ear to detach kernels. So what to do with this bowl of gold?
» Create a vegetarian filling for quesadillas adding red and green peppers (mild or spicy), sliced scallions and Monterey jack cheese, to taste. Make Pennsylvania Dutchstyle fritters. Use these delicious golden nuggets as appetizers or a side dish for grilled or roasted meats. They work for brunch or breakfast, too, as ersatz pancakes drizzled with maple syrup. Build a spectacular summer platter, making a base of rainbow-colored vegetables –literally red, yellow, green and purple. Enhance it with cold cooked shrimp (orange) and an elegant medley of white and black beans. Comedian George Carlin said that there is no such thing as blue food, so pile everything on a bluerimmed platter.
DUTCH COUNTRY CORN FRITTERS
MAKES 4 TO 6 SERVINGS.
` 3 ears of fresh corn, kernels scraped
` 1/3 cup milk
` 1 large egg
` 1 teaspoon sugar
` 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
` 1/2 teaspoon salt
` Pinch cayenne
` 1/4 cup cornmeal
` 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
` Vegetable oil for cooking
Whisk together the milk, egg, sugar, baking powder, salt, cayenne. Stir in the corn kernels. All the mixture to rest for 10 minutes.
Heat the oven to 200 degrees. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place it in the oven.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Working in batches, drop this batter into the pan by heaping tablespoons.
Fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes on each side. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with salt. Keep warm for up to 30 minutes.
CORN AND SHRIMP
A superb centerpiece for a summer meal. The highlight, of
course, is the summer corn fresh from the farmers’ market or farm stand.
Use frozen, shelled, cooked shrimp for ease, with tails on for the visual. Defrost shrimp under cool running water; leave in the colander while preparing the recipe. Pat dry with paper towels.
` 4-5 ears corn
` A vinaigrette of 1/4-1/2 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard, salt and pepper, to taste
` 15-ounce can white beans, drained and rinsed, dried on paper towels
` 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed, dried on paper towels
` 1 medium red (purple) onion, diced
` 1 large red pepper, diced ` Salt, pepper ` 1 pound frozen cooked and shelled shrimp (medium or large)
` 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, some whole leaves reserved for garnish
Add shucked corn to a large pot of boiling water for no more than 3 minutes. Drain. When cool enough to handle, remove kernels (as described above); set aside.
Pile the black beans, white beans, red onion and diced red peppers into a salad bowl. Add corn kernels. Taste the vinaigrette for seasoning. Add to the salad bowl; toss.
Add shrimp. Toss lightly so that the shrimp stays near the top but is flavored with the dressing. Sprinkle with whole cilantro leaves.
Linda Bassett lived in Marblehead for years and has worked as a cook, trained up-andcoming chefs, studied food history and led food tours. Her book, “From Apple Pie to Pad Thai,” is about local cooks and cooking.
‘We all grow up too fast’ Since 1932, campers have been spending relaxed summers at Camp Devereux, located at the Devereux School on Smith Street.
Paul Baker, who acts as camp director during the summer and the head of the Devereux School during the year, said they’re booked with about 70 campers a day..
“It’s just fun… laid-back fun,” Baker said. The days at Camp Devereux are generally unstructured, aside from two required swimming sessions per day. Kids are allowed to choose what they want to do — be it arts and crafts, playing in the wooded trails behind the property, beading bracelets and keychains, or playing music with special guests.
Each week has an interesting theme, such as French Week or Insect Week, when the campers can dress up and learn new things.
Baker cites the unstructured format as the most attractive part of the experience for many kids who value the opportunity to explore their interests without being forced to do activities they won’t enjoy. The one rule: no electronics.
“It’s a time for kids to be kids,” said Baker. “We all grow up too fast.”
Benji Boyd is a Current intern and Marblehead High School senior.
CURRENT PHOTO / LINDA BASSETT
A bounty of fresh corn, waiting to be shucked and enjoyed, captured at the peak of the season.
COURTESY PHOTO
Campers cool off by swimming at Children’s Island.
‘Ten Things Teens Can Do’
Resident writes to empower young people
BY LIA GORBACH
Merle Schell lives in town with her two cats, LouLou and Sophie. She holds a doctorate in education leadership from Northeastern University and has 19 years experience as a teacher at Chelsea High School. She enjoys gardening, cooking and reading mysteries. And … she just published a book.
“Ten Things Teens Can Do: to take control, love yourself and find joy” is a 43-page book and journal inspiring self-confidence, stress relief and self-love, and empowering teenagers and youth alike.
The first half of the book includes fun, everyday activities to help develop inner peace, purpose and happiness, illustrated with colorful graphics. The second half is a journal of reflective prompts, such as five things you can do for yourself and five things you can do for others. The goal of the book is to show teenagers that they have some control over their lives.
“This book is about choice. I’m giving suggestions of activities, but you don’t have to do them
all, or in any order. Pick out what’s most meaningful to you,” Schell said.
Schell has been working on this project, published through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing and developed on the graphic design tool Canva, since COVID. She originally planned on making a PowerPoint presentation about teen stress. But when the pandemic hit, Schell decided to turn her ideas into a book.
“Teens are under unimaginable stress today. We’re living in very strange times, there’s an inordinate amount of pressure.
Teens have no way to say ‘stop.’”
Getting the book to meet KDP’s requirements on bleed and trim size was a tough barrier. Another hurdle for Schell was navigating new technology. She reluctantly downloaded Instagram and Tiktok to promote her book.
Though hesitant to get Facebook, she uncovered and joined a group that was doing the same thing as she is –publishing on KDP. A lesson was learned: use social media as a tool.
“I’m beginning to appreciate
social media,” Schell laughed. Schell also has a website — Merleschell.com — that is home to a blog and newsletter where she can reflect and talk about things that are affecting kids, teachers and parents in education.
Schell spends many hours at her desk, working on a media kit for her book, sending emails and brainstorming for her next projects. She hopes to publish a children’s book next year.
For now, Schell hopes her new book will encourage teens to take steps to reclaim their lives. Feeling out of control of your life is a component of stress, Schell says. She emphasizes focusing on the little things you can control, like the music you listen to and people you spend time with.
“The real intent of this book was to not be judgmental and to take the pressure off. There are so many ways to be happy and things you can take charge of. You can only do that if you take charge of the areas of your life that you can control,” Schell said. “I really believe in this book, I believe it can help.”
“Ten Things Teens Can Do” is available now on Amazon.
BY PAT MILNER
For most people, the year ends in December, but for the Lynch/van Otterloo Y Board of Drectors, our annual business concludes in June and resumes in September.
The past 10 months have been, to say the least, eventful. The Y observed its 15-year anniversary with two celebrations: A breakfast in January for current and former board and staff members, and a May 2 community-wide reception that featured a 10-minute video titled “Beyond Our Wildest Dream” that chronicled the eight-year capital campaign. There was also the presentation of the 2024 David Sherman Community Strengthening Award to Marblehead’s Lisa Gery. It was both heartwarming and prideinducing to relive the Y’s arduous journey to fund and build our 90,000-square-foot, fullservice facility that sits at the top of a ledge-laden, inhospitable site at Leggs Hill Road. The video can be viewed by using this link: youtu.be/3islrhIVBSE Gery, a benefactor and 15-year Y fitness staff member — who reflects the munificence of the many volunteers and donors who contributed to the new building — was presented with the award named for David Sherman, the Y’s most generous capital campaign supporter, who epitomized selflessness and community commitment. She was the honor’s seventh recipient.
It was a banner year for membership, too, as registrations nearly reached the pre-pandemic, 15,000-member total.
The Y also increased its financial support to over $900,000 for those unable to fully pay for their membership, and for “camperships” that allowed youth to attend Children’s Island Day Camp or on-site programs. We are committed to the Y motto that no one is ever turned away due to their inability to pay.
To underwrite those subsidies, the Y conducts an annual fundraising campaign, which I’m
proud to report increased over last year’s total.
We are very grateful for the many people who contribute each year, and who make the Y a high priority for their personal philanthropic gifts.
We’ve augmented the annual campaign with our second annual golf tournament in June at Tedesco Country Club, and our annual squash Raise A Racquet fundraising event.
Some of our most exciting developments, however, are only visible by boat. A new building for our youngest Children’s Island campers, ages 5-6,
was completed before camp began on June 24, and two, state-of-the-art restrooms that feature eco-friendly composting toilets, will be finished this fall. This construction reflects the first phase of a $5-million campaign to upgrade the camp’s facilities and protect the environmentally vulnerable property owned by the Lynch/van Otterloo Y. This summer our camps will serve more than 3,500 children from our primary communities of Marblehead, Swampscott and Salem. It also marks Children’s Island’s 69th year offering a timeless, technology-free summer camp experience for North Shore youth, and we look forward to celebrating our seventh decade next summer.
All these achievements would not have been possible without the strong, effective leadership of Y Executive Director Brian Flynn and his terrific, professional staff. His business acumen, wisdom,and strategic focus are the ingredients for the Y’s continued growth, effectiveness and ongoing success in delivering high-quality service and programs to the community.
Lastly, we said goodbye to four board members — Kevin Hogan, Sarah Manoog, Ryan Nestor and David Simonson, but we welcome Jeff LeClair and Sam Munoz. We thank all our board members for their time, service and commitment to the Y and its values.
We’re already looking forward to our 2024-25 board year, and I’m very proud to lead this group of highly dedicated and selfless volunteers.
Marblehead Resident Pat Milner is the Board President of Lynch/van Otterlo YMCA.
COURTESY PHOTO
Merle Schell flips through her book, “Ten Things Teens Can Do.”
From left to right, YMCA of the North Shore
Brian Flynn and LvO Board President Pat Milner
August happenings at Abbot Public Library
The Abbot Public Library, now at its newly renovated building at 235 Pleasant St., invites the community to participate in a range of programs throughout August. Below are the scheduled adult and teen events, with all activities taking place at the Pleasant Street location unless otherwise noted. To register for any of the programs listed below, visit abbotlibrary.org/events.
Six-week genealogy course
The Abbot Public Library will offer a six-week genealogy course starting Wednesday, Sept. 11. Classes will be held from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Event Center. Participants will learn how to collect and organize family history data. Registration is required and can be completed online. Space is limited, and basic computer skills are necessary. The program is supported by a grant from the Marblehead Cultural Council.
Summer reading program for all ages
The Adventure Begins at Your Library summer reading program concludes on Friday, Aug. 16. Adults and teens can participate in reading challenges and win prizes, including gift certificates and library merchandise.
Inflatable whale exhibit
On Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 10 a.m -12 p.m., the library will host an inflatable North Atlantic right whale exhibit named Delilah. The exhibit includes educational sessions on whale anatomy and conservation, tailored to different age groups. Registration is required due to limited space. This program
BY WILL DOWD
The Current welcomes submissions (150-200 words) to the news in brief. Send yours to wdowd@marbleheadnews.org.
Purple Heart luncheon
The Council on Aging will host a Purple Heart Day celebration on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Judy and Gene Jacobi Community Center, 10 Humphrey St.
The event will honor local veterans who have received the Purple Heart medal and officially announce Marblehead’s designation as a Purple Heart Community. Veterans and their families are invited to attend the luncheon and presentation.
Teresa Collins, who spearheaded the initiative to recognize Marblehead as a Purple Heart Community, will be acknowledged for her efforts. The designation aims to honor those who have been wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. military.
The Purple Heart, established by Gen. George Washington in 1782, is one of the oldest and most recognized American military medals.
Volunteer opportunities
The Select Board is seeking volunteers for various town committees. Interested residents should submit a letter of interest and resume to the Select Board at Abbot Hall, 188 Washington
is sponsored by the Friends of Abbot Public Library.
Zinemaking party
A zinemaking party will take place on Friday, Aug. 2, from 1-3 p.m. in the Thompson Makerspace. Participants can meet other zine contributors, share pre-made pages or create new ones with provided materials. Contributions are due by Friday, Aug. 16. Each contributor will receive a copy of the finished zine.
Linocut print tote craft
The library will host a linocut print tote craft session on Tuesday, Aug. 13, from 1-3 p.m. in the Thompson Makerspace. Participants can create their own designs or follow a pattern
to print on canvas totes. Registration is required, and all supplies are provided.
Virtual haunted experiences event
Jeff DePaoli of That Halloween Podcast will host a virtual event on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. He will discuss Blackcraft Haunt with Creative Director Jasin Cadic. Registration is required.
Adult summer reading closing
reception
The Adult Summer Reading Closing Reception will be held on Friday, Aug. 16, from 3:304:30 p.m. in the Fireplace Room. Participants can chat with other summer reading participants and submit their adventure logs for the raffle prize.
Bring your craft project to the library
The library invites the community to an afternoon of crafty camaraderie on Tuesday, Aug. 20, from 2-4 p.m. in the Fireplace Room. Participants can bring their knitting, beadwork, sketchbooks or other personal crafts to create and share ideas. No registration is required.
Author talk with AgathaO Massachusetts author and photographer AgathaO will present her book, “Northern Byways and Other Essays From the Road,” on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 7-8:30 p.m. The event will include a discussion, conversation and book signing. Registration is required.
St., or email wileyk@ marblehead.org. For more information, call 781-631-0000. Available positions include the following:
Cable Television Advisory Committe: Three, one-year terms
» Conservation Commission: One, three-year term Council on Aging: Two, three-year terms
Design Review Board: One, three-year term
» Historical Commission: One, three-year term
» Fair Housing Committe: One, three-year alternate member term
» Marblehead Cultural Council: Four, three-year terms
Marblehead Community
Nonfiction book group meeting
The library’s nonfiction book group will meet on Thursday, Aug. 29, from 2-3 p.m. in the Event Center. The group will discuss Stacy Schiff’s “The Revolutionary Samuel Adams.” Registration is required.
Teen DIY button making Teens are invited to a DIY button-making session on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 3:304:30 p.m. in the Thompson Makerspace. Participants can create their own buttons using provided materials. No registration is required.
Teen tabletop gaming Teens can join an hour of tabletop gaming on Thursday, Aug. 22, from 3:30-4:30 p.m.in the Thompson Makerspace. No registration is required
Art exhibits at Abbot Public Library
The Virginia A. Carten Gallery is featuring quilts by the Seacoast Quilt Guild, inspired by popular picture books. Additionally, Alessandra Baldizzone Donovan’s photography exhibit, “Inside. Outside” is on display on the main level near the fiction stacks. This exhibit is a partnership between Abbot Public Library and the Marblehead Arts Association.
Sail Away Book Shop now open
The Sail Away Book Shop is open in the library. Visit during library hours to browse and purchase books. All proceeds support the library’s programs and services. Donations are accepted.
and Cliff Street Boatyards begins Sept. 16. Previous customers have priority, with new applications accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Marblehead residents receive preference.
Marblehead Trading Company will collect storage fees for the town, charging $5 per square foot based on the boat’s overall length multiplied by its beam width. This fee covers storage only.
For questions, contact Rachael at 781-631-4650 or email trucking@marbleheadtrading. com.
» Task Force Against Discrimination: Two, oneyear terms
Applicants are encouraged to attend a meeting of their chosen committee and contact the chair for more information. Committee details can be found at marblehead.org.
Boat storage
Winter boat storage at Parker’s
The North Shore Mother Visiting Partnership is providing free, one-time home visits from public health nurses to new mothers across 13 North Shore communities, including Marblehead. The service is available to all parents within the first year after birth or adoption, regardless of age, insurance or income. Funded by local grants, the program aims to support maternal health, newborn care and provide valuable resources. Visits last approximately 90 minutes and include guidance on various aspects of postpartum care. For more information or to request a visit, interested parents can contact NS MVP at 978-741-1800 ext. 42404 or visit their website at nsmnp.org.
COURTESY PHOTO
Meet Delilah: Abbot Library is hosting this inflatable whale exhibit later this month.
Resident Teresa R. Collins presents the Select Board with signs designating Marblehead as a Purple Heart Town during its June 26 meeting.
COURTESY PHOTO Support for new mothers is here. NEW
